Linebacker Randall Godfrey took part in his first Redskins practice on Tuesday. He is still adjusting to his new surroundings and working his way back into football shape. He spoke with Redskins.com and media following practice.
Q: There were reports that you were mulling retirement. Did you have to be talked out of it?
A: "I wasn't officially retired. I always wanted to play football. I had a ninth-grade son who was just starting high school, and that was the only thing I was worried about. But he said, 'Daddy, go on and play.' I had a few teams calling, and I thought this was the best position for me."
Q: Why did you choose the Redskins?
A: "I see a bright future hear. This team definitely has a chance to go deep in the playoffs, and I've had some experience with [assistant head coach-defense] Gregg Williams and some of the guys, which is why I felt more comfortable coming here."
Q: How much did your former college teammate Phillip Daniels play a role in you coming to the Redskins?
A: "He has been calling himself my agent, so I guess I have to pay him 3 percent. Seriously, he did a great job. He called me off and on, but it was a tough decision to go from San Diego to Atlanta, and then get up in 3-4 days to come here. I'm happy and my family is happy, so I'm ready to go."
Q: How big of a factor was your familiarity with Gregg Williams?
A: "It played some part--when you know the coaches, you feel more comfortable. When you know the system, you feel more comfortable. I have to get used to some of the players that I don't know, but that will be easy."
Q: Why didn't you stay in San Diego?
A: "We just couldn't get a deal done. They had a one year deal on the table, and I would have had to take a pay cut after starting there for three years. With Donnie Edwards and me being 34 years of age, they went young. I think they'll have a good team."
Q: Will there be a tough transition from the Chargers' defense to the Redskins' defense?
A: "We ran more of a 3-4 with Coach [Wade Phillips] in San Diego, but I have experience with Coach Williams when I was with the Titans [in 2000]. It will take some time, but I'll be ready to go."
Q: Did the injury to Marcus Washington play a role in your decision to come to the Redskins?
A: "No, not really. This team always showed a little interest, so I had to just make my decision of whether I was going to play or not. I wanted to play, so I'm here."
What linebacker position do you feel most comfortable?:
A: "I'm going to contribute any way that I can. If I'm on special teams, then I will do that. I'm just here to help this team win games. This will be my 12th year in the NFL, so if I'm out there playing, I'll play. If I'm not, I'll be giving advice."
Q: What do you see in the Redskins' defense right now?
A: "I'll tell you what, this is not the 31st-ranked defense in the league. Being out here [on Tuesday] and seeing the hustle, there is a lot of talent here. With work and having guys that are committed, this team can go to where we want to go. I think the leadership and the older guys will make sure that the young guys understand what we are trying to accomplish here."
Q: Are you in football shape right now?
A: "I have to kind of work my way back. I have been doing pilates and a lot of yoga, but no football field exercises. That will be easy, though. I don't let myself get too far out of shape. I'm ready."
Q: What other teams were interested in signing you?
"I had a deal with Arizona, and I did talk with Philadelphia. I just had to see what the best place was for me and where I felt comfortable, and I knew Phillip Daniels here. We have a chance to do something, and I'm going to give it all I have this year to get this team as far as we can go. I know guys are disappointed in the season they had last year, but I do see a bright future, and they are headed in the right direction."
