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Redskins Breakdown: Depth performs well in win over Tampa Bay

By Jacob Camenker

TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 31: Quarterback Nate Sudfeld #2 of the Washington Redskins throws to an open receiver during the third quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 31, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 31: Quarterback Nate Sudfeld #2 of the Washington Redskins throws to an open receiver during the third quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 31, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 30: Josh Harvey-Clemons #25 of the Louisville Cardinals intercepts a pass against the Texas A&M Aggies in the second half of the Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium on December 30, 2015 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 30: Josh Harvey-Clemons #25 of the Louisville Cardinals intercepts a pass against the Texas A&M Aggies in the second half of the Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium on December 30, 2015 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Defense: Josh Harvey-Clemons and Nico Marley flash at middle linebacker

One of the best performers of the entire Redskins-Bucs game was Josh Harvey-Clemons. The seventh round rookie out of Louisville showcased his excellent skill set that led many to believe that he should have been a higher pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.

Harvey-Clemons was all over the field for the Redskins. Throughout the contest, he was able to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks. On back to back plays in the second half, he came close to sacking Sefo Liufau but couldn’t quite make the play either time. Still, Harvey-Clemons was able to succeed in run support, and he also made the biggest play of the night for either side.

Late in the fourth quarter, Harvey-Clemons dropped into coverage and made an interception. He was able to jump the route and return the pick for a touchdown. On the return, he demonstrated smooth athleticism, weaving in and out as he avoided defenders before getting to the end zone. It was the only Redskins touchdown of the night, and it was a key play by the middle linebacker.

Must Read: 9 Redskins who should have a roster spot over Nate Sudfeld

Alongside Harvey-Clemons, fellow rookie Nico Marley had a solid performance. The undrafted rookie out of Tulane came up with another sack and did well to work his way into the backfield on multiple occasions. What Marley lacks in size he makes up for in motor and raw ability. He is a football player, and he did enough to warrant consideration for a roster spot.

With the cut to 53 players looming, the Redskins are going to have some tough decisions to make about the state of their linebacker corps. They have some solid young talent in Harvey-Clemons and Marley, but it seems unlikely that they will keep both. If they end up keeping one, it seems likely that the man who doesn’t make it will land on the practice squad. But on Thursday night, both players showed that they deserve a chance to make the final roster.

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