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Grading the Redskins inside linebackers on the 2017 performance

By Jacob Camenker

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 30: Zach Vigil #56 of the Washington Redskins forces Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys out of bounds short of the goal in the fourth quarter of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 30, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 30: Zach Vigil #56 of the Washington Redskins forces Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys out of bounds short of the goal in the fourth quarter of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 30, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 12: Wide receiver Adam Thielen #19 is tackled by inside linebacker Zach Brown #53 of the Washington Redskins during the second quarter of the Minnesota Vikings at FedExField on November 12, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 12: Wide receiver Adam Thielen #19 is tackled by inside linebacker Zach Brown #53 of the Washington Redskins during the second quarter of the Minnesota Vikings at FedExField on November 12, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Overall Grade

It’s clear that the inside linebacker position was one of the deepest on the Redskins roster. Despite the fact that their top three players at the position were all out of action during the final three weeks of the season, the reserves held their own. They did everything they could to help the team, and deserve credit for their efforts.

Realistically, the Redskins have three candidates who could be starters on teams across the league. Additionally, Vigil proved that he could get a look as a starter or top backup while Harvey-Clemons is still a young, converted safety with a lot of upside. Spaight is the weakest link of the group, but even he has shown flashes of brilliance in the past.

The inside linebackers might be one of the better spots on the team. At least, they were in 2017. With so many key free agents set to hit the market at the position, the team could look a lot different in the middle of their defense next year. For now, they are looking very good, and will get a high mark for their grade. The one thing that’s bringing it down a bit is their performance in coverage, but that should improve moving forward.

Next: 5 prospects to watch in East-West Shrine Game

Overall Linebackers Grade: A-minus

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