As the Redskins hope RB Willie Parker signs so we don't have to give up anything to get RB Darrien Sproles, the Chargers are taking precautions and signed former Redskins RB Marcus Mason. He was the little red caboose that everyone [well except Anthony Alridge] pulled for when he was here, but now it looks like he gets to fill Ladainian Tomlinson's shoes, if he makes the team.

The 5-9, 215-pound former All-America running back from Youngstown State spent the better part of his first two NFL seasons on the practice squads of the Redskins and Baltimore Ravens before getting an opportunity to play last season for the Redskins. In nine games in '09, Mason averaged just under 4.0 yards per carry, toting the ball 32 times for 127 yards. He will attempt to earn a roster spot on a team in San Diego that averaged just 3.3 yards per carry last season.

"We've followed his progress through his young career," said General Manager A.J. Smith, "and when he came available, we decided to give him an opportunity to earn a spot with the Chargers."