Five bold predictions for Redskins vs. Falcons in NFL preseason Week 3

5. Montez Sweat totals multiple sacks

The Redskins moved into the end of the first round to select Montez Sweat. And it’s easy to see why they did. Sweat is long, athletic edge rusher with excellent speed and all-around ability that should nicely complement Ryan Kerrigan at the position. Between Kerrigan, Sweat, and Ryan Anderson, the team seems to have a solid three-man foundation on the edge.

While Sweat certainly has upside, he hasn’t shown off much during the preseason. There’s a reason for that. He was dealing with a calf injury and missed the team’s first contest. As for the second game, he did get on the field, but he wasn’t able to make much noise. He almost notched a sack at one point and did flash at times and show off his traits. But he didn’t have his big breakout moment yet.

Washington Commanders

That could change this week. And it should.

Sweat should see a fair amount of action for the Redskins as they look to get him game-ready. Sweat could play a good chunk of the first half and rotate with Anderson as they look to find the best combination of guys to play on the defensive line. And while the Falcons’ offensive line is stronger than it was last year, they still can be exposed at right tackle, as Ty Sambrailo is merely a swing tackle forced to start because of Kaleb McGary‘s health concerns.

If Sweat gets some reps against Sambrailo or former Arizona Cardinal John Wetzel, he should be able to make some noise and get to Matt Ryan. And if Sweat plays into the second half, he could rack up even more pressure and ultimately finish with a couple of sacks as he gives the team a flavor of what he could offer as a rookie.

Sweat should be motivated to prove himself in the team’s final meaningful preseason game. And if he can, there’s a chance he could win a starting job for the squad.