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Washington Redskins Could Use New England Patriots Free Agents As Reinforcements

By Jacob Camenker

Jan 14, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) returns an interception against the Houston Texans during the fourth quarter in the AFC Divisional playoff game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 14, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) returns an interception against the Houston Texans during the fourth quarter in the AFC Divisional playoff game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower (54) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) in the 2017 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower (54) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) in the 2017 AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

The Front Seven Options Are Strong As Well

In the front seven, the Patriots have even more quality options. However, the best of the group is their star linebacker Dont’a Hightower.

Hightower is a do-it-all linebacker that has excelled in coverage and run support over his first five seasons. In 2016, Hightower had one of his best seasons even after the departure of Jamie Collins. He really managed to lead the Patriots defense well and he is in for a huge raise. If the Patriots elect to focus on retaining members of their secondary, then Hightower could end up leaving.

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Still, it seems increasingly likely that Hightower will be retained by the team after the Super Bowl. Regardless, the Redskins should be prepared to target him as one of their big free agent options. It cannot hurt to do extra research on the free agent market.

Elsewhere on the front, a couple of solid veterans could become available as well. Alan Branch, a versatile defensive tackle and end, will be hitting the market. He could be an excellent rotational player for the Redskins and Scot McCloughan will have interest in him. Also, considering that he is 32 years old, he could come cheaper which would be good news for the team.

The final intriguing name on the defense is Jabaal Sheard. The veteran pass rusher had another good season for the Patriots and has developed into a solid pass rusher. He is a better fit in a 4-3 defense, but the Redskins should still do their due diligence on him. Perhaps Greg Manusky could figure out a way to use him.

Next: Redskins Offensive Free Agent Predictions

At the end of the day, any of the Patriots free agents could upgrade the Redskins. They did make it to the Super Bowl after all, so they really could turn the Skins defense around if given the chance. And if they do not want a defensive player, perhaps they will target LeGarrette Blount to help their running game. Regardless of what happens, the Redskins will look into these guys and could have some success if they add even one of them.

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