NFL notes: Engram enters free agency, could leave Seattle

The Associated Press • Published February 27, 2009

Comments (0)

SEATTLE – Wide receiver Bobby Engram is now a free agent and doesn't sound overly optimistic about a return to the Seattle Seahawks.

Speaking during halftime of Thursday night's college men's basketball game game between No. 21 Washington and No. 14 Arizona State, Engram said he's received plenty of interest from other teams and that being a free agent "is a good place."

Engram said the Seahawks are aware of his desire to finish his career in Seattle, but then said, "I wouldn't say optimistic," when asked about his chances of returning.

"It's going to be interesting how it turns out," he said.

Engram and 443 other NFL players became free agents at 9:01 p.m. Thursday.

Engram had 47 catches for 489 yards but no touchdowns last season as Seattle slumped to a 4-12 record. He's spent the past eight seasons with the Seahawks, and has 399 catches and 18 touchdowns in his time with Seattle.

Engram said he hopes to have a deal done soon, whether it's with Seattle or another team. He also expressed concerns about where the Seahawks are headed offensively with new offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and likely an increased emphasis on the run.

"We'll make the best decision," Engram said. "Hopefully something will get done quickly regardless of it's with the Seahawks or not."

• HALL RE-SIGNS: DeAngelo Hall has agreed to a six-year, $54 million deal to remain with the Washington Redskins.

Hall's agents completed negotiations just as the cornerback was eligible to become a free agent. The contract will include $22.5 million in guaranteed money.

Hall provided a significant boost to the Redskins' secondary as a midseason pickup following his release by Oakland in November.

• SHORT YARDAGE: Three-time Pro Bowl center Jeff Saturday signed a three-year deal to remain with the Indianapolis Colts. ... The Miami Dolphins signed safety Gibril Wilson, who had been cut by the Oakland Raiders. ... The Hawaii Tourism Authority board Thursday rejected the NFL's second proposal to return the Pro Bowl to the islands in 2011 and '12. The 2010 game will be played in Miami. ... The Minnesota Vikings signed defensive end Jayme Mitchell to a two-year deal and also re-signed defensive back Charles Gordon. ... The Jacksonville Jaguars will release veteran defensive end Paul Spicer today. ... Guard Derrick Dockery and tight end Robert Royal were released by the Buffalo Bills.