Washington Redskins Release Veteran Larry Johnson

The Washington Redskins released veteran running back Larry Johnson on Tuesday; Johnson's agent and the team have confirmed the move.

According to sources, the Redskins immediately filled the vacant spot in their backfield by signing 25-year-old Chad Simpson, a third-year running back out of Morgan State and a former member of the Indianapolis Colts for two years and the Buffalo Bills of this past preseason.

Johnson, a local product of La Plata High School in Maryland, struggled throughout the preseason but made the team anyway. Through the Redskins' first two games, Johnson had limited opportunities and limited output, rushing for just two yards on five carries.

When the Redskins originally signed Johnson, his deal was more lucrative for the team than it was the running back, with a mostly incentive-based payout. Considering the financial aspects of the deal, it appeared like that played a large part in keeping the 30-year-old Johnson on board.

Many people familiar with the team and situation made it clear that Johnson was a very good teammate and that he did anything and everything that the coaching staff asked of him.

"We appreciate Larry's attitude and contributions to the Redskins," general manager Bruce Allen said. "However, we needed to make a roster move in preparation for this week's game against the Rams."

The Redskins' dismal average of just 53.5 rushing yards per game ranks 31st in the league. The team's average yard-per-carry of 2.7 yards ranks 30th.

HTTR!