Rumors: Washington Redskins To Pursue Calais Campbell During Free Agency

Oct 23, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell (93) gestures to the crowd during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell (93) gestures to the crowd during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Washington Redskins have a major need on the defensive line. They could elect to fix that in free agency by adding Calais Campbell.

If one thing was apparent after the issues that the Washington Redskins had last season, it was that they needed help on the defensive line. Aside from the solid play of Chris Baker, the team had little to no talent on the unit. They need to find an upgrade during the offseason, and Calais Campbell could be a player that interests them.

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According to ESPN’s John Keim, the Redskins will probably pursue Campbell during free agency. Keim said the following of the situation as he looked towards the start of the free agent period:

"Is it likely the Redskins pursue [Campbell]? Yeah, I think it is. He’s one of the best defensive lineman available; they want to improve their line. Sort of a good match. There are other possibilities, but, for me, Campbell tops the list."

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Keim would later go on to praise Campbell’s versatility and his reputation across the league. He certainly brings up some good points, and the Redskins should almost certainly make Campbell one of their top targets.

About a week ago, I called for the Redskins to target Campbell. I pointed out the fact that the Cardinals would have trouble retaining him due to cap space, and also praised his consistent playmaking ability:

"[The Redskins] could afford to pay Campbell and also re-sign Chris Baker. The duo could start as the 3-4 ends and the Redskins could target a high upside nose tackle, like Montravius Adams, in the draft. It would be an excellent move, as both Campbell and Baker can rush the passer. Last year, Baker had 4.5 sacks while Campbell has recorded at least five sacks in each of the last eight seasons. They could end up giving the team’s solid edge rushers some extra help and strengthen the front seven."

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Needless to say, the Redskins should strongly consider adding Campbell to their team. Granted, he will be 31 by the start of the 2017 NFL season, but he still would fill a major need from them. He is a hard worker and would be loved by his teammates. Campbell seems like an excellent fit for the Redskins, and he should be pursued. If the two sides can agree on a deal in the four year, $36 million range, then that could end up being a mutually beneficial agreement.