The Washington Redskins pulled a stunner Tuesday, cutting veteran linebacker Mason Foster right as training camp is ready to get underway.
Foster was viewed as a starter going into next season, especially after the loss of Reuben Foster to injury. Instead, the Redskins have decided to lean on the addition of Jon Bostic and a younger depth chart.
But there could be something else at play — money.
With the cut, the Redskins saved $4 million against the cap. While Foster’s agent wasn’t happy with the move, Foster himself should have a chance to latch on somewhere quickly without risking injury with a team that was going to cut him.
And that freed up money could mean something else is in the works. One idea points to the offensive line, where the Redskins could use more bodies in the wake of Trent Williams’ likely holdout — or it could mean they need the guaranteed money for a Williams extension.
Even if this is simply the Redskins wanting to go younger, the odd timing suggests another motive. A financial one makes sense, so another move soon wouldn’t be a surprise.
