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Redskins’ Harvey-Clemons looms large in 2018, literally and figuratively

By Ian Cummings

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 30: Josh Harvey-Clemons #40 of the Washington Redskins celebrates a sack on Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 30, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 30: Josh Harvey-Clemons #40 of the Washington Redskins celebrates a sack on Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 30, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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Josh Harvey-Clemons was little more than a project when he signed with the Redskins following the 2017 NFL Draft. Now, he could become an important piece of a growing roster.

The Washington Redskins have their three best inside linebackers due for new contracts this year. More likely than not, at least one will not be back in 2018, and when the smoke clears, there will be a spot available for a new competitor to rise.

Many fans and writers alike have the Redskins drafting Georgia ILB Roquan Smith in the first round, if he ends up falling to pick No. 13. The move would effectively solidify the inside linebacker position, adding speed to the second level, and it would push several roster hopefuls into dangerous territory.

Good thing Josh Harvey-Clemons has the other guys beat by at least a couple inches.

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Sad attempts at puns aside, Harvey-Clemons looms large for the Redskins in 2018, and beyond.  He was originally drafted as a mere project player, but after flashing his potential several times in 2017, he’s slowly becoming a valuable piece to the Redskins’ puzzle. Other players may get more recognition, but at 6-foot-4, 217, and with past experience as a safety, Harvey-Clemons has the potential to be a special player.

In 2017, Harvey-Clemons showed that he could complete at the professional level. He used his athleticism to keep himself in the play, and his speed and length made a difference on multiple occasions. Roquan Smith, the best linebacker in the 2018 NFL Draft, is believed to be a very polished recruit, but Harvey-Clemons has him in one area, and that’s size. If the second-year pro can use that to his advantage, and continue to refine his game, he could end up securing a larger role in the future.

Next: How will the 2018 QB Carousel end?

It’s important to understand that while Harvey-Clemons has potential, he’s far from a sure thing at this point. The Louisville product has a long way to go in his development, but if he can make a sizable leap in 2018, then he can add a whole new element to the Redskins defense. An element unique to him alone.

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