Breaking down the Washington Redskins’ linebackers for 2020

MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 13: Jon Bostic #53 of the Washington Redskins in action against the Miami Dolphins in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 13: Jon Bostic #53 of the Washington Redskins in action against the Miami Dolphins in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /
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MIAMI, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 29: Thomas Davis #58 of the Los Angeles Chargers looks on against the Miami Dolphins during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 29: Thomas Davis #58 of the Los Angeles Chargers looks on against the Miami Dolphins during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Which linebackers the Redskins will keep

Right now, I would guess the Redskins will keep seven linebackers, though six is a possibility. Opening day, I see Bostic in the middle, flanked by Davis and Holcomb. Hamilton and Pierre-Louis are ready to back-up on the outside, while Anderson still searches for a role that can make use of his size and hitting. Hudson will be used in specialty packages.

Apart from Davis and Bostic, the remaining five should be significant contributors on special teams.

I expect Norris and Harvey-Clemons to lose out to other players, and Foster’s injuries to keep prevent him from contributing. But injury and surprising performances will play a role. Should Foster stay healthy and look good, I suspect the team would not feel confident parting ways with Bostic, and so that could mean a player like Pierre-Louis moves to the bubble.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, age will one day catch up with the reliable Thomas Davis, and should that happen this year, it opens up the door for Pierre-Louis, or Hamilton to step up. Holcomb could move inside which would have a ripple effect on every other position.

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Obviously, there are plenty of variables in play. With a strong defensive line fronting the defense, 2020 seems like the ideal year for several of these promising young players to make a leap forward and turn the Redskins’ linebacking from invisible to elite.