The Facts: Following up on a previous item. ... In response to a reader question as to whether Hightower's visit to New England on Friday means the Redskins have lost interest in the veteran RB, ESPN.com's Dan Graziano replied: No, they have not. The Redskins still like Hightower an awful lot, and if he's fully recovered from his ACL tear they would love to have him back as their starting running back in 2012. Yes, ahead of youngsters Roy Helu and Evan Royster.
Diehards Line:Graziano went on to explain that HC Mike Shanahan loves Hightower, whom he views as an every-down runner, a good receiving back and a help in pass protection as well. He's not sold on either of last year's rookies as the total package yet, and so the Redskins' ideal plans for 2012 include a healthy Hightower at the front of their running back corps. Now, the question is how much they want to offer him before they're sure he's healthy again, and if he's getting interest from other teams, his price could stray beyond what they're willing to risk. Graziano further noted that Ryan Grant and Joseph Addai were also in New England for visits, so it remains to be seen what the chances are of Hightower signing there. If he does, the Redskins will look for a veteran back or two to add to the Helu/Royster mix.