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5 Washington Redskins position battles to watch during 2017 offseason

By Jacob Camenker

Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) carries the ball as Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger (36) defends during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) carries the ball as Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger (36) defends during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tackle Bobby Massie (70) and running back Jordan Howard (24) and Washington Redskins defensive end Trent Murphy (93) in action during the game at Soldier Field. The Redskins defeat the Bears 41-21. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tackle Bobby Massie (70) and running back Jordan Howard (24) and Washington Redskins defensive end Trent Murphy (93) in action during the game at Soldier Field. The Redskins defeat the Bears 41-21. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Rush Linebacker: Trent Murphy vs. Preston Smith vs. Ryan Anderson

Many would assume that Trent Murphy would be locked in as the starter across from Ryan Kerrigan. After a career year that saw Murphy record nine sacks, it would make sense to have him start. However, Murphy is suspended for the first four games of the season, and that could cause him to lose the job if one of the other young guys play well.

Preston Smith is this year’s potential breakout candidate on defense. Smith recorded eight sacks as a rookie before struggling to get going during his second season. However, Smith has excellent athleticism and is in great condition right now. His length could allow him to wreak havoc, and Murphy’s performance along with the addition of Anderson could light a fire under him.

Speaking of Ryan Anderson, he has a chance to emerge as a starter as well. The second round pick is a hard worker who has been able to play well in Alabama’s 3-4 defense for the past few seasons. The Redskins like hard workers on the edge, as evidenced by the work they have done with Kerrigan. Anderson may not be ready to start right away, but expect him to put up a fight as he looks to earn a role with the team.

For those wondering why Junior Galette is not listed, it is simply because he is too unreliable to be a starter. He is constantly hurt or in trouble, so landing a backup role should be the realistic expectation for him going into 2017.

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