Former Washington Redskins LB Will Compton signs with Titans

The Washington Redskins neglected to spark negotiations with veteran linebacker Will Compton. Thus, he’ll be joining another team in 2018.

The Washington Redskins performed maintenance on their linebacking core earlier in the offseason, re-signing Zach Brown and acquiring Pernell McPhee to make up for the loss of Junior Galette on the edge.

Depth is also an area of concern at inside linebacker for the team, but they likely feel confident in their immediate backup options. Zach Vigil played well for the Washington Redskins in relief last year, Josh Harvey-Clemons has the potential to make a leap in year two, and Martrell Spaight, for at least another year, provides experience both on defense and on special teams.

The Washington Redskins’ confidence in their younger players is likely one of several reasons that they ultimately decided to let Will Compton test the free agent market. Compton had gone unsigned for much of the offseason, but now, it appears he has a new home for 2018. According to ESPN’s Field Yates, Compton has been signed by the Tennessee Titans.

The terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed, but it’s unlikely that the Washington Redskins will receive a compensatory pick for Compton’s signing. Compton was signed far past the second wave of free agency, and his contract will likely be cheap. Even if he earns a decent value, the Washington Redskins are currently stuck at the maximum number of compensatory picks, set to earn four such picks next year.

Compton’s play won’t necessarily be missed; the former undrafted free agent was seldom more than a spot starter, and he had issues with consistency down the stretch. Set to turn 29 years old later this year, Compton’s best years might still be ahead of him, but his time is running short, and his prospective upside is low.

Nevertheless, the Tennessee Titans had a glaring need at linebacker with Avery Williamson joining the New York Jets in free agency, and by grabbing Compton, they not only acquire a player with experience, but also a proven leader who will be a benefit to the team’s culture. Compton worked hard to get where he is today, and his personality, a healthy blend of tough love and witty humor, is something that can permeate through a locker room and help a young team grow.

In Compton, the Titans receive a bit of insurance at the position of inside linebacker. The position will still be a need moving forward, but Compton provides depth, at the very least, and his mentality is a good fit for Mike Vrabel’s team. Scoff at Compton’s tumultuous stint in Washington all you want. His loss may have a considerable impact off the field. Players like D.J. Swearinger and Alex Smith will sullen that negative impact. But he won’t easily be replaced.

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Compton has the mentality that all teams should search for in every acquisition. He’ll make the most out of his opportunity in Tennessee, and while he may not be a starter, he will be a worthwhile addition.