Scot McCloughan’s To Do List: Part 3 – Defensive Line
By Chris West
October 7, 2012; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins nose tackle Barry Cofield (96) runs onto the field prior to the game against the Atlanta Falcons at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Barry Cofield, NT
Barry Cofield had been a fixture at NT for 4 years with the Redskins. He was a team captain for 2014 and an important player on the defense. Him being out of the lineup for the first half of the season after week 1 was a big loss for the team.
More from Commanders News
- Highlighting the best Commanders 2023 NFL Draft betting props
- 3 late Commanders rumors drawing buzz ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft
- 4 bold predictions for the Commanders 2023 NFL Draft
- Commanders News: Chase Young trade, draft day, CB riser and Sam Howell
- Bet365 VA Bonus Code – Claim $200 Guaranteed With Sign-Up Bonus
Despite his importance to the defense, Cofield will need to restructure his contract to stay with the team. The Redskins can save $6 million if they cut him but being a team leader, he is a good candidate for a modified contract.
The switch from NT may end up being permanent for Cofield
Cofield was not used at NT on the 3 man line at all in the last 2 games. He played DE on the 3 man line and DT on the 4 man line. Cofield did play over the C versus Dallas 14 times as the only lineman on the field. That formation usually included 5 LBs.
Cofield scored a 0.62 rating versus Philadelphia overall but was more effective against the run with a 0.79 rating. Interestingly, he was not on the field for a single run play in the Cowboy game. Cofield was used as a designated pass rusher against Dallas and scored a 0.96 rating.
The switch from NT may end up being permanent for Cofield. If the Redskins run a 1-gap penetrating style of defense, it will play to his strengths. If he is willing to come back at a reduced salary and is healthy, Cofield may be the starter at LDE.
Next: Stephen Bowen