Redskins 53-man roster projection: Pre-preseason Week 1 vs. Browns

Defensive Line (5)

Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Matt Ioannidis, Caleb Brantley, Tim Settle

The Redskins have invested significant draft capital on the defensive line in the past few years, turning a unit that was traditionally a weakness into a strength.  This unit is arguably the strongest on the team, and the three starters, in particular, should wreak havoc on most offensive lines.

The only question that needs to be answered is, can Brantley and Settle fill in when necessary to avoid a big drop off in production?  The “Alabama Wall,” along with Ioaniddis produced 20.5 out of the team’s 46 sack total in 2018.

Being the veteran of the group, Ioaniddis was signed to a three-year extension for $21.75 million in the off-season due to the outstanding season he had in 2018.  He produced 7.5 sacks last season and has shown nothing but improvement since being drafted out of Temple.

Payne showed his elite potential, and ability to dominate, in his rookie year after being taken out of  Alabama.  He excelled against the run and was exceptional rushing the passer, posting 5.0 sacks.  His teammate from Alabama, Jonathan Allen, will be the leader of the defense along with safety Landon Collins.

Brantley is an intriguing prospect in his own right, considering he was compared to All-Pro defensive tackle Aaron Donald coming out of the University of Florida.  He struggled to fit in with the team when picked up off waivers from the Cleveland Browns, but defensive line coach Jim Tomsula brings up his name whenever possible as a player to watch.

Entering his second year with the team, Settle has the ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage.  While Brantley has more of an ability to rush the passer from the position, Settle has the size and strength to be an asset in stopping the run.  Both should show well in the preseason.

Players on the outside looking in include JoJo Wicker and Ryan Bee.  Both could potentially be signed to the practice squad.