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GRANT PAULSEN: Arrington motivated to face Redskins Date published: 10/8/2006
IT WAS DAY ONE of the Washington Redskins' 2000 training camp in Ashburn. Practice had just ended and local reporters awaited the opportunity to talk with Washington's rookie linebacker. Several minutes passed, and the first-year player was nowhere to be found. Eventually the rookie emerged, announcing that he had been getting veteran defensive backs Darrell Green and Mark Carrier sunflower seeds. He apologized That rookie linebacker was LaVar Arrington. Six years have passed since the Redskins selected Arrington with the second pick in the 2000 draft. Today, in his fourth game as a New York Giant, Arrington gets his first opportunity to face his former franchise. In his six years in burgundy and gold, Arrington became one of the most revered defenders in football. Compiling 21.5 sacks in his first four seasons in Washington, Arrington spent much of the early part of his career in the opposition's backfield. Arrington, a 257-pound linebacker who can run, was Washington's most daunting defender. It wasn't long before the garrulous leader became a fan favorite. Fans loved Arrington, and he sure loved them. His jersey was the one most frequently purchased during his time in D.C., and still may be the easiest to find on game day at FedEx Field. But all good things must come to an end--in this case a bitter and unpleasant end. Arrington's marriage with the Redskins soured mightily in his final two seasons. A season-ending knee injury Playing time was just one of myriad disputes Arrington had with his former employer in recent seasons. He also sued the team over a contract dispute that left the player feeling as though he'd been cheated out of more than $6 million.
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