6 Washington players who proved their worth in 2021
By Jerry Trotta
1. Cole Holcomb
On a defense that underperformed to the tune of ranking 25th in points allowed (25.5) and 22nd in total yards allowed per game (359.3) this season, Cole Holcomb was one of a few consistent performers on Jack Del Rio’s unit.
The former fifth-round pick led Washington in combined tackles (142) and solo tackles (83) and no one was closing to challenging him for first place. He tacked on two interceptions, two forced fumbles and seven passes defended, which ranked fourth on the team and brings us to our next point.
While Holcomb’s overall game took a massive leap in 2021, the strides he made as a disruptor in coverage was a sight to behold. Like any linebacker, he has his limitations, but he has a nose for the ball and plays every snap until the final whistle.
Simply put, Holcomb is everything you could want in a weakside linebacker. The UNC product is already a willing leader at 25 years old and played 100% of the snaps in all but one game, proving he’s a three-down player.
Fans should be hoping Holcomb sticks around beyond his rookie contract. We wouldn’t even be opposed to Washington opening extension negotiations this offseason in the event he makes another leap next season and his price tag skyrockets, but we’ll cross that bridge when the time comes.
Honorable mentions: Taylor Heinicke, Bobby McCain, John Bates, Landon Collins
Next. 4 players who didn't prove their worth in 2021. dark