The Washington Redskins announced March 2 they have agreed to a new seven-year contract with Pro Bowl tackle Chris Samuels. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Samuels, a physically dominating player and a cornerstone of the Redskins offensive line, is a proven team leader who is among a core group of Redskins poised to lead the franchise for years to come.
Samuels, 6-5 and 310 pounds, established himself as one of the premiere offensive tackles in the league in his five NFL seasons. He has missed only four games during his Redskins' career and started every game in which he played (76). Forming a tandem with Jon Jansen, the two are considered one of the best tackle duos in the NFL.
Samuels was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2001 and 2002, and despite battling injuries in 2003 he logged another solid season and earned a third alternate bid.
Samuels was selected by Washington in the first round (third overall pick) of the 2000 NFL Draft and continues to show tremendous leadership both on and off the field. He was one of only four players on offense to start every game his rookie season.
Samuels was voted by his teammates and coaches as the 2002 Ed Block Courage Award winner, annually given to a player from each NFL team who exemplifies commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage.
After his senior season at Alabama, Samuels won the Outland Trophy as college football's top lineman. He was also a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award and a first team All-American.
