Washington Redskins Free Agents: 4 Cap-Friendly Targets Post-NFL Penalty

The league's decision to hit the Redskins with a $36 million salary cap penalty will impact the way the franchise conducts itself in free agency. Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen may have to abandon the idea of luring the likes of Vincent Jackson and Carl Nicks to D.C.

Assuming the league's sanction, or some form of it at least, does hold up, the Redskins could look to these four players as cost-effective alternatives to their prime targets:

Eddie Royal, WR, Denver Broncos

As mentioned in yesterday's updated tracker, Eddie Royal is a low-key option at wide receiver who makes a lot of sense for the Redskins.

The 25-year-old has played for Mike Shanahan in the past and has excellent knowledge of the offensive scheme the Redskins are trying to run. Royal has the speed to be the deep threat the passing game is missing.

A diminutive speedster, also offering underrated return skills, Royal's versatility would compensate for his lack of prototype size.

Eric Winston, RT

NFL.com has reported that Winston has become a surprising cap casualty of the Houston Texans. He is a player the Redskins should make a strong effort to sign.

The 6'7", 302-pounder is a technically proficient and athletic blocker who has played in the same zone-based blocking scheme favoured by Shanahan. Winston would solidify an area of weakness on Washington's front five.

Dwight Lowery, S, Jacksonville Jaguars

Following the release of O.J. Atogwe and with LaRon Landry's future still uncertain, upgrading the safety position might be more of a priority than adding a shutdown corner.

Dwight Lowery is a perfect fit for the Redskins. A former cornerback, he has the speed, range and coverage instincts to operate at free safety.

He is also a fierce hitter and an active player in run support, giving Lowery the versatility to play the strong safety spot as well.

Mike Brisiel, LG, Houston Texans

Brisiel started 13 games for the Texans in 2011 and has the zone-blocking experience that makes him an ideal fit for Washington's system.

At 6'5" and 300 pounds, Brisiel possesses the foot speed and athleticism to succeed in D.C. and bolster the left side of line.

These are the kind of low-value and cap-friendly targets the Redskins may choose to pursue in free agency. They would all be good scheme fits and solid additions to the starting units.