Redskins: 1 free agent to avoid at every position in 2019 offseason
Rush Linebacker: Vinny Curry, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The edge is going to be a big need for Washington this offseason. If Preston Smith doesn’t re-sign, the team will have only Ryan Kerrigan, Ryan Anderson, and Cassanova McKinzy at the rush linebacker spot. That will necessitate them investing in veteran depth and a high-round draft pick at the position.
If the team goes the veteran route in free agency, Vinny Curry would be a player that I would avoid. Curry has talent, but the former Eagles second-round pick hasn’t been highly productive in quite some time.
In the past four seasons, Curry has logged only 3.5 sacks at most in a single season. While he has still generate quality pressure, not unlike Smith, Curry doesn’t have excellent finishing skills. That’s what prompted the Bucs to cut him after signing him to a one-year deal.
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Of course, it’s notable that Curry may have also been cut because the Bucs transitioned to a 3-4 defense. Curry is a much better fit for a 4-3 front and while he can play rush linebacker in a 3-4, he doesn’t have the coverage skills needed to see the field consistently. With the Redskins operating in their base defense, Curry wouldn’t be an option. So much like Easley, it would be hard to justify investing in him.
The Redskins really should re-sign Preston Smith. But if they don’t, Curry shouldn’t be added as a potential replacement. They will have to find a better scheme fit or focus on adding one in the draft.