The Redskins have re-signed defensive tackle Joe Salave'a, the team announced on Wednesday. Salave'a was a key contributor to a Redskins' defense that finished the 2004 season ranked third in the NFL last season.

The 6-3, 295-pound lineman started nine games last season and recorded 30 tackles (22 solo) and two sacks. He logged his best game in Week 10 when he had a career-high 11 tackles.

Salave'a helped the defensive line hold opposing teams to 81.5 rushing yards per game, ranked second in the NFL.

Prior to joining the Redskins, Salave'a spent his previous five seasons playing for the Tennessee Titans (1998-2002) and the San Diego Chargers (2003). During his first three seasons with the Titans, his defensive coordinator was Gregg Williams, currently the Redskins' assistant head coach-defense.

In 2000, Salave'a had his best season, totaling 43 tackles (22 solo) and four sacks for a highly regarded Titans' defense.

Salave'a entered the league in 1998 as a fourth-round (107th overall) draft choice by the Tennessee Titans. A native of American Samoa, Salave'a played his college ball at the University of Arizona, where he was first team All-Pac 10 as a senior. During his college career, he appeared in 44 games and totaled 157 tackles, 21.5 sacks and six forced fumbles.