Washington Redskins target Muhammad Wilkerson signs with Packers

We can officially cross Muhammad Wilkerson’s name off of the Washington Redskins wish list.

The lack of a deal following Muhammad Wilkerson’s visit to D.C. was somewhat clear proof that the two sides were still far away from a deal. Wilkerson reportedly enjoyed the visit, commenting on the positive vibe he received from Jim Tomsula and Greg Manusky. After the visit, however, Wilkerson didn’t waste his time thinking about his decision. He chose quickly. And he chose the Green Bay Packers.

Muhammad Wilkerson and the Packers displayed mutual interest when they first met around a week ago. There was talk that Wilkerson would sign immediately with the Packers, but he ultimately decided to take more visits, meeting with the Chiefs and the Redskins before he decided that Wisconsin would be his next home. Wilkerson will be reunited with Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine, who was once the defensive coordinator for the New York Jets.

Now, for those of you on the ‘Wilkerson or bust’ train, don’t panic. Wilkerson is the first top-tier defensive lineman to lose his availability on the market. Worthwhile names such as Sheldon Richardson and Dontari Poe are still available. But the Washington Redskins need to incite a conversation with those players. And fast.

After the signing of Paul Richardson, the Washington Redskins still have approximately $23 million left to spend on the market. Sheldon Richardson and Dontari Poe, the two best remaining options, were first believed to command around $10 million. However, as time goes on, their market value will depreciate. But there’s no reason to believe either player will be available for long.

Richardson would provide the Washington Redskins with a more explosive interior defender, but if the team values a run stuffer more highly, then Dontari Poe would be the better option; his size suits an occasional nose tackle role far better than Sheldon Richardson’s, and Poe could be a better scheme fit for the Washington Redskins.

Regardless, the Washington Redskins need to add at least one more rotational defensive lineman this offseason. The duo of Jonathan Allen and Matt Ioannidis worked wonders through the first five weeks of 2017, but the team needs more quality depth in the trenches if they wish to brave a full 16-game season.

Next: NFL Mock Draft 6.0: Redskins grab a playmaker

While one visit turned out to be unsuccessful today, the status of former Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is still pending. Be sure to stay with us here at Riggo’s Rag, as we’ll give you all the latest updates, pertaining to this situation.