Washington Redskins 2017 first quarter positional grades: Defense
Inside Linebackers
It’s amazing how much one move can completely change the course of a defense. Greg Manusky has gotten a lot of credit for the work he has done with the Redskins, and rightfully so. One of the best moves that Manusky and the team made was bringing in Zach Brown late in free agency to help run their defense.
Washington had a major weakness at middle linebacker last season. Will Compton was the starter and defensive captain. While his leadership was important, his tackling ability was virtually non-existent. He was good in coverage, but he was part of the reason that the team had so much trouble stopping the run. Brown’s arrival has completely gotten rid of that issues.
Through four weeks, Brown is leading the NFL in tackles with 42 and he has been a machine for the Redskins. Brown has been very fast and reactive to runs and pass plays alike and that has allowed the team to greatly improve their defense overall. He has come up with key stops on third down and that has been key to the team’s improvement.
More from Riggo's Rag
- What will Emmanuel Forbes bring to the Washington Commanders?
- 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
Next to him, Mason Foster has been similarly strong and he notched a game winning interception against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2. Foster has been an instinctive run stopper and he has fared well enough in the passing game. The duo is set to continue to be successful for the rest of the season, provided that they can stay healthy.
In terms of backups, the Redskins have actually not utilized Compton. The former starter has been mostly limited to special teams. Instead, Martrell Spaight has worked as the No. 3 linebacker and he has looked much better. Perhaps he is finally healthy or perhaps the new coaching staff and scheme suits him better. He has been an attacking run stopper so he may have the upside to be a starter in the future.
This unit is definitely stronger than it was last year. They have good depth and their starters are very strong. This is yet another place on the defense where the team deserves a solid grade for the improvements they have made in just one month.