3 Redskins players that could make their first Pro Bowl
By Wyatt Kern
The Redskins only had two players make the Pro Bowl in 2017. In 2018, they’ll hope to improve on that mark.
Players like Ryan Kerrigan and Trent Williams have already made multiple Pro Bowls, and are expected to make it again this coming season. But which Washington Redskins players are most likely to make their first Pro Bowl roster in 2018? Let’s take a look:
Morgan Moses
Morgan Moses has been on the verge of his first Pro Bowl ever since he earned the starting job at right tackle in 2015. He has played every game since then, and as a result, he has become a staple of the offensive line. Even through the injury plagued season of 2017, he continued to play through pain, and stay on the field. The health of the rest of the line is key for Moses to continue to be successful. If he can continue to stay healthy as well, his first Pro Bowl selection could come as soon as this coming season.
Preston Smith
Preston Smith, just like Moses, has been one of the more durable players on the Redskins in recent years. He has yet to miss a start since earning the job opposite Ryan Kerrigan in 2016. Smith has all the tools to be a Pro Bowl outside linebacker in the NFL. Smith’s biggest issue has been consistency. He recorded 8.0 sacks his rookie year, but that number dropped to 4.5 sacks in 2016. 2017 was somewhat of a comeback year for him, as he brought his sack total back up to 8.0. With a vastly improved defensive line, and a multi-time Pro Bowler in Ryan Kerrigan opposite of him, this could be a career year for Smith. This could be the season that we see both outside linebackers in the Pro Bowl wearing Redskins helmets.
D.J. Swearinger
D.J. Swearinger was a valuable player for the Redskins in his first season with the team. So far, he has brought valuable stability to the safety position. He recorded four interceptions and 10 pass deflections, to go along with 61 tackles in 2017. Those numbers are all careers highs for him, and he continues to show improvement, even entering his sixth season in the league. Swearinger has become an important piece for the defense over the short time he’s been here. His presence has been extremely valuable and above all, he has become a leader on the team. A healthy defense around Swearinger would allow him to take more chances and therefore, make more big plays for the team. If he can earn his first Pro Bowl selection this season, it would be a huge boost for the defense.
Next: Redskins RB Derrius Guice has everything to prove
Which Redskins player do you think has an opportunity to earn their first career Pro Bowl berth in 2018? Be sure to let us know in the comments below, and also ask any questions you might have, in regards to our upcoming Riggo’s Rag Mailbag!