3 linebackers the Redskins could try to trade for after Reuben Foster’s injury

Roberts may not be a big name, but the linebacker has made 30 starts for the Patriots over his three-year NFL career and has seen action in three Super Bowls. So, the Redskins could have an interest in his youth (he turned 25 in April) and experience.

The Patriots are facing a roster crunch at the linebacker position in the wake of re-signing Jamie Collins. They have Collins and Dont’a Hightower, a former dynamic duo at the position, and while Hightower may play more on the edge, former fifth-round pick Ja’Whaun Bentley looked great as a rookie before suffering a season-ending injury. Kyle Van Noy has proven to be a solid starter as well, so that’s already four linebackers that seem likely to make the roster. And that doesn’t include the recently-extended special teams ace Brandon King.

With that said, the Patriots will likely have to choose between Roberts and last year’s sixth-round pick, Christian Sam, for the roster or just elect to keep five players at the position. Given that Roberts is entering the final year of his contract and the team isn’t likely to land a compensatory pick for him, they could be interested in moving him for a late-round pick.

Roberts is a nice tackler who graded out as Pro Football Focus’ 13th-best run stopping linebacker (27th overall). In each of his past two seasons as a starter, Roberts has recorded at least 65 tackles and he recorded a career-high four pass breakups last year. He isn’t great in coverage, but he could prove to be a better overall starting option than Mason Foster.

If the Patriots accept a fifth or sixth-round pick for Roberts, the Redskins could probably make this move. And if they play their cards right, they may even be able to get him for just a swap of late picks. The Patriots tend not to make moves where they don’t think they’re winning, but given that Roberts is no lock to make the team, Bill Belichick may have an interest in offloading him before being forced to cut him.