Examining if the Redskins should trade or keep Ryan Anderson

So, should the Redskins trade Anderson?

At this point in time, the answer to this question should be no. There is a compelling argument to trading Anderson, but the Redskins should simply wait until training camp and the preseason rolls around before making that decision.

Anderson may not end up being a starter, but he should have a chance to fight for a job. After all, Rivera has emphasized competition this offseason, so why not keep him around and add depth to both the linebacker and edge rush rooms?

Now, if Anderson falls behind a number of other players in the linebacker room and a guy like Jordan Brailford or James Smith-Williams steps up as a potential fourth edge rusher for the team, that’s when the Redskins may want to try to offload him to another team. Given that rookies and other young players may have trouble emerging as contributors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there should be an interest for Anderson

“If I needed a linebacker, I’d consider a fifth for Anderson,”  said a notable source, per Ben Standig. “He’s good, not special, but players respect guys like him because they’re tough and play for the team. He’s produced in the NFL, unlike a rookie. He’s young, cheap and can play.”

That’s certainly an encouraging statement that demonstrates the Redskins should have an opportunity to trade Anderson if they decide to do so.

Anderson is a capable NFL player who could find a role with the Redskins. So, it makes sense to keep him for now. A trade shouldn’t be ruled out at a later date, given his pending free agency and imperfect fit in the Rivera/Del Rio system, but he should get a chance to prove himself as he looks to crack the starting lineup in 2020.