Linebackers Free Agency Preview
The Washington Redskins had mixed reviews at the linebacking position. The inside linebackers were mediocre at best. Will Compton struggled to shed blocks and get physical with offensive lineman. The lack of speed of both Mason Foster and Compton creates a need for both fast and physical linebackers. Although the inside linebackers were mediocre, the outside linebackers showed life. Ryan Kerrigan, albeit inconsistent at rushing the passer, was their best linebacker once again. In Trent Murphy’s third season was, surprisingly outstanding. Although he is currently appealing a 4-game suspension for PED’s, it would be ignorant to think that is the reason he had a breakout year until we know the truth of the matter. Either way, Washington needs fast and physical linebackers and there are a few out there who are worth considering. All calculated market values provided by spotrac.com.
Potential Fits at Linebacker for Washington
Green Bay Packers OLB, Nick Perry, 26 years old. Estimated annual value $8.5 million. Nick Perry progressively rose to become the Packers’ most consistent pass rusher. With Clay Matthews constantly battling the injury bug each year and Julius Peppers’ inconsistency as a pass rusher, Perry stood out, earning career highs in sacks (11), tackles (52), and his first career interception. In my opinion, odds are that he likely goes back to Green Bay; however, if Washington can decide to add Perry to go alongside pro-bowler Ryan Kerrigan, this would allow Preston Smith, Junior Galette, and Trent Murphy to be solid rotational guys.
Buffalo Bills ILB, Zach Brown, 27 years old. Estimated annual value $4.5 million. Brown took on a 1-year prove it deal in Buffalo and thrived. He posted career highs in tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles. He is the guy who presents a physical presence as well as solid sideline to sideline speed, and the Redskins should make the move on him.
San Francisco 49ers ILB, Gerald Hodges, 26 years old No estimated annual value for Hodges. When it comes to Gerald, I must admit he personally was not on my radar at all until a friend of mine told me to take a look at him. Hodges, who’s from the east coast, is an incredible athlete who runs a 4.46 40 yard dash. He was traded to the Niners from Minnesota in 2015, where he had a solid season, followed by a breakout year in 2016 in which he posted 88 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 ints, and 1 forced fumble in his contract year. Hodges provides not only a physical presence, like Brown, but can also be an asset in the passing game where his coverage skills are solid too. Hodges is a guy who can provide major improvements at the inside backer position.
Carolina Panthers ILB, A.J. Klein, 25 years old. No estimated annual value for Klein. Like Gerald Hodges, he was not on my radar until pointed out by the same friend. Klein is a guy who Panthers media and fans been wanting to re-sign since the 2016 offseason. He was in the shadows of star linebacker Luke Kuechly for his time in Carolina but has stood out in fill-in roles when Luke was injured. He is on the market looking for a starting role, and the Redskins are in the market looking for upgrades, so this can be the spot for Klein.
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