Scot McCloughan’s To Do List: Part 3 – Defensive Line

Sep 14, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins defensive end Chris Baker (92) celebrates against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Baker, NT

Chris Baker was given his first extended chance to be a starter and performed above average. He was a consistent run-stopper for the Redskins. He began the season at DE but moved back to NT full time when Barry Cofield went down with an injury in week 1 versus the Houston Texans.

Baker did not provide the pass rush the Redskins had hoped for after he performed well at the end of the 2013 season. He finished the season with a single sack and 6 QB hurries. The move to NT early in the season may have hindered his pass rush.

Baker had a decent game versus the Eagles in week 16 and scored a 0.86 rating. He struggled at times against the Cowboys in week 17 and scored a 0.71 rating. Baker’s pass rush exclusively from NT was a very good 0.95 in the final 2 games despite not registering any sacks.

Baker was the most consistent performer along the defensive line

Baker looks to me like a rotational player. He may take a big jump in performance over the next year or 2 but I don’t think the Redskins should count on it. Baker should be used as a reserve at DE and NT and allow the starters valued rest time.

The problem with using Baker in a reserve role is that you need someone to take his place as a starter. With the 5th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Redskins may be in prime position to select a dominant defensive lineman such as Leonard Williams or Danny Shelton. If the Redskins choose a defensive lineman in the first round, he will be expected to start.

Baker was the most consistent performer along the defensive line in 2014. It’s telling that he should really be a reserve. Upgrading the defensive line will lead to much improvement throughout the defense.

Next: Barry Cofield