Skins save Shaun

Alexander: Former MVP

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Former MVP running back Shaun Alexander has made his return to the NFL after being signed by the Washington Redskins.

Three-time Pro Bowler Alexander was released by the Seattle Seahawks in April after two injury-hit season which had seen his star dwindle dramatically.

After being drafted by the Seahawks in 2000, Alexander became one of the best running backs around with five straight years rushing for at least 1,175 and at least 16 touchdowns per season.

2005 saw Alexander named the league's MVP after posting figures of 1,880 rushing yards with 27 rushing touchdowns and 28 overall, as he led the Seahawks to the Super Bowl where they lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Detroit.

After months of uncertainty, the Redskins have now given Alexander a return to the NFL as he bids to prove the critics that he can still perform at the top level.

With Ledell Betts injured, the Skins will use Alexander as back-up to Clinton Portis and he should get some time on the field to prove his point.

After inking a huge $62 million eight-year deal with the Seahawks in 2006, Alexander became the highest-paid running back in NFL history at the time.

However, he rushed for 896 yards during the season after missing six games with a broken foot, while in 2007 he made just 716 yards on the ground with an injured wrist and ankle problems hampering his progress.

His injuries forced Seattle to release him in April and he has had to wait until the trading deadline in the NFL to be given his next chance.