The Redskins have given wide receiver Rod Gardner permission to seek a trade to another team, head coach Joe Gibbs said on Monday.

"We gave Rod Gardner and his agent the opportunity to [explore] a trade," Gibbs said. "We felt like [exploring trade options] would be best for both of us."

Asked why the team doesn't foresee Gardner in its long-term plans, Gibbs replied: "Just the way the year went and his general feelings. That was important to us. It would be mutually good for both of us."

Gibbs stressed that the team would not part with Gardner for minimal compensation.

"We want some value for him now," Gibbs said. "We think he's a valuable guy."

Gardner was the Redskins' first-round draft choice (15th overall) in 2001. He appeared to be on his way to developing into an elite receiver following his second NFL season, when he logged a team-high 71 catches for 1,006 yards and eight touchdowns.

Gardner's numbers have declined each of the last two seasons, although the Redskins' offense overall struggled both seasons as well.

Last season, Gardner finished with 51 receptions for 650 yards and five touchdowns. He had his best game in Week 3 against the Dallas Cowboys, recording 10 catches for 167 yards and two touchdowns.

Gibbs said he wasn't sure if Gardner would be required to attend any of the team's offseason workouts, which are expected to start in late March.

"As we get closer, and if something hasn't been done, then we'll try to work our way through that," Gibbs said.