Washington Redskins 2017 X-Factors: S D.J. Swearinger

Swearinger has all the makings of a multi-year starter for the Redskins. But we’ve said that about other free agent signings.What makes Swearinger different?

For starters, there isn’t much of a difference in scheme. Both the Redskins and Cardinals run a base 3-4 defense. Therefore, Swearinger will be able to use more time on honing his skills, and less time on forging new roles.

A second, more unknown advantage that Swearinger provides is the advantage of chemistry. He’s already reported to have taken a leadership role within the Redskins’ secondary room, and in a previous article highlighting the Redskins’ safety situation, I spoke of a more specific boost to chemistry that could pay dividends in 2017.

"Swearinger showcased his playmaking ability at Arizona. He had a career year in 2016, and at only 25 years old, he appears to have a long career ahead of him as a starting safety. Swearinger not only has the ability, but he and Josh Norman also happened to attend the same high school. This bond will strengthen the chemistry of the secondary, allowing it to function more fluidly. In fact, we’ve already seen this in action, as the unit has coined a new name for itself (per Redskins.com’s Jake Kring-Schreifels)."

Chemistry is an underrated quality in most conversations, but it’s important if a defense wishes to function as a cohesive unit. With Swearinger’s influence, and his longstanding friendship with cornerback Josh Norman, the defense should see a boost to their chemistry in 2017. Last year, the Redskins shifted out washed-up veterans week in and week out. This year, it appears they’ll have some stability.

And it all starts with Swearinger. He showed he can play last year with the Cardinals. But we’ve seen plenty of one-year wonders through the years. Chemistry is very important, but if Swearinger can’t keep up his level of play, this boost will be far from long term. Chemistry doesn’t work if the catalyst isn’t on the field.