Redskins release Alexander

The Washington Redskins have released running back Shaun Alexander after just four games with the franchise.

Redskins bring back Boschetti to cover for defensive injuries

The Washington Redskins have released running back Shaun Alexander after just four games with the franchise. The 31-year-old was signed midway through October to provide back-up for starter Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. In his quartet of appearances he managed 24 yards on 11 carries and he was not used at all on Sunday against his old team, the Seattle Seahawks. Washington's decision was made so they could re-sign defensive tackle Ryan Boschetti to provide cover for injuries up front.

MVP season

Alexander spent eight seasons with the Seahawks and was voted the NFL's MVP in 2005 when he rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns. However, after his fifth successive 1,000-yard season he was hampered by injuries and in April was cut by Seattle, who had selected him with the 19th pick of the 2000 draft. Boschetti is no stranger to the Redskins having begun his NFL career with them back in 2004, when he signed as an undrafted free agent. The 27-year-old was released on August 30 but has returned to Washington after tackles Andre Carter and Kedric Golston both picked up foot injuries in the 20-17 win in Seattle in week 12.