Grading the rest of the Redskins defensive free-agent signings
LB Kevin Pierre-Louis
This name isn’t one that’s familiar to a lot of Redskins fans. But Kevin Pierre-Louis could have a chance to be a productive linebacker in the ‘Skins defense, especially considering the dearth of proven options they currently have on their roster.
With Reuben Foster‘s future largely unsettled after he suffered a brutal leg injury during 2019 OTAs, the Redskins have focused on adding a number of linebackers to their roster who can serve as role players. That includes Pierre-Louis.
Pierre-Louis has largely been a backup and special teams player during his six-year career. He is an ace on special teams and that has been his main calling card. But at the end of last season, he got a chance to serve as a starter for the Chicago Bears in three games. And he fared well in extensive action, proving that he may still have untapped potential.
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In 14 games (three starts) last season, Pierre-Louis posted 37 tackles, three pass defenses, and an interception for the Bears. He showed the ability to hold up well in coverage and it’s known that he’s a solid tackler from his work on special teams. And since Pierre-Louis is only 28, he may be able to continue to improve with more playing time.
Rivera has had success developing linebackers at the NFL level. Perhaps he sees something he likes in Pierre-Louis that will give him a chance to find a role in the Washington defense. At the very least, he will be an excellent special teams option and a quality depth linebacker. It’s possible that he could earn a role as a fourth linebacker on the team depending on how he fares in competition with Shaun Dion Hamilton and the other options on the Redskins roster.
Pierre-Louis’ deal will pay him $3 million in 2020 and he’ll be a free agent again in 2021. That’s a fine value signing for the Redskins as it’s likely that Pierre-Louis will play a key role on both defense and special teams. And even if he’s mostly a special teamer, this contract isn’t a long-term one.