The Redskins have released middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, running back Trung Canidate and left guard Dave Fiore.

Trotter's release was expected.

Head coach Joe Gibbs told reporters in March that the team would try to trade the two-time Pro Bowler if a deal could be reached. The move signaled that Trotter would likely not be in the Redskins' plans for 2004.

Trotter played two seasons in Washington. After five seasons in Philadelphia, he signed with the Redskins prior to 2002. But his season was cut short after 12 games with a knee injury. Last year, he played all 16 games and led the team with 129 tackles.

The Redskins acquired Michael Barrow to replace Trotter in Gregg Williams' defensive scheme. Kevin Mitchell will also compete for a backup job at middle linebacker.

Canidate rushed for a career-high and team-high 600 yards on 142 carries in his only season as a Redskin. His most memorable play may have been hauling in a game-winning 10-yard pass from Rod Gardner in a Week 10 victory over Seattle at FedExField.

With the addition of star running back Clinton Portis last March, Canidate's role with the team would likely have been diminished. The Redskins had acquired Canidate in a trade last year. His departure means Ladell Betts, John Simon, Sultan McCullough, Rock Cartwright and Chad Morton will be competing for playing time behind Portis.

Fiore signed with the Redskins in March 2003 after seven seasons in San Francisco. He started the first three games of the season, but was inactive for the next five weeks due to soreness in his right knee. He was placed on injured reserve on Nov. 4.

Derrick Dockery replaced Fiore in the starting lineup for the final 13 games of the season.