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Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley

The Washington Redskins released linebacker Alfred Fincher, cornerback Michael Grant, defensive tackle Michael Marquardt, wide receiver Marques Hagans and offensive tackle Devin Clark on Sunday. Fincher, a solid special teams player for the Skins, was the most surprising name on the list. Coach Jim Zorn explained the decision following practice Sunday.

"I don't want to take anything away from Fincher because he's worked really hard, and he has improved," Zorn said. "But to us there was kind of a ceiling there on him compared to some of the other guys that are coming on. Now he may have been more seasoned, but sometimes with a younger guy there is a potential there that you like -- a speed or a flash that I think coaches are looking at that kind of give those guys a little bit longer look. Al, in all fairness, he was here a year ago, and the other guys are doing as well as he, so we decided that maybe they'll have a higher ceiling."

Zorn also said that defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth missed Sunday's practice due to stomach issues. He said that running back Clinton Portis will not play Thursday in Jacksonville, but indicated some of the others starters would be in the game. It sounds like we're going to see a whole lot of Colt Brennan and Chase Daniel in this game. If I had to guess right now, I think Zorn's leaning toward Daniel as the third quarterback.

Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley

The Washington Post's newest Redskins Insider, Paul Tenorio, has a story this morning on the depth along the Redskins' offensive line. We obviously know that the starting right tackle spot is a concern (I have Stephon Heyer as the starter), but you should be even more concerned about some of the backup spots. If something happens to some of the interior linemen, the backup options are pretty green.

The good news is that longtime offensive line coach Joe Bugel has changed his tune on Chad Rinehart. He reportedly questioned the player's future after the '08 season, but now he sounds much more optimistic. Tenorio asked Bugel what the difference was in Rinehart from last season to now.

"Night and day," Bugel said. "Difference between yesterday and today. He's going to be a real good football player for us."

Other candidates for backup spots are Mike Williams, Jeremy Bridges, Devin Clark, Will Montgomery and Edwin Williams. So what do you guys think about the offensive line? Is it the weakest link for the Skins? We'd love to hear from you.

Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley

Here are the stories we're tracking for you on Friday, May 15. Other blogs have gone dark for the offseason. We're refusing to do that. In fact, the Beast has officially renounced the word "vacation," which can lead to major problems such as a feeling of renewal and a sense of perspective. In this division, those are viewed as stumbling blocks. Thanks for your continued support during this exciting time in the NFL offseason: 

Cowboys

• Michael Irvin used the premiere of his reality TV show, "Fourth and Long," to help raise $140,000 for the family of Rich Behm, who was paralyzed from waist down during the collapse of the Cowboys' indoor facility two weeks ago. The show will premiere nationally on Spike TV on Monday. Here's what Jerry Jones said about the evening: "I think it's great. Michael extended his heart. There is a lot of excitement and energy behind the preview. To incorporate help for Richie is outstanding. The only thing bigger than Michael Irvin's personality is his heart."

• Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News talks about the major storylines heading into OTAs.

• Jerry Jones praised Cowboys employees for the way they responded to building collapse.

• Clarence E. Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram discusses the name "Cowboys Stadium." 
  

Eagles

• Les Bowen has an excellent blog entry on Shawn Andrews and whether he actually enjoys playing football. 

• It seems that DeSean Jackson is growing up.

• I'm ashamed I haven't provided more links to Iggles Blog. Here's an entry on what to expect from Jackson in his second season. 
  

Giants

• Safety C.C. Brown likes a good game of paintball. Thinks the bonding might pay off. 

• Rookie safety Sha'ref Rashad has been quite impressive so far.

• Ralph Vacchiano of the Daily News says the Giants' new receivers are quick studies. 
  

Redskins

• Jim Zorn made some interesting comments during an interview with an LA-based radio station. 

• The Redskins are hoping that Chad Rinehart and Devin Clark can help out at some point.