Early last week I wrote a story about how the Washington Redskins should re-sign outside linebacker Junior Galette, who is currently on the open market. Fast forward to now, five days into free agency, and my opinion hasn't changed on the un-signed outside linebacker.
Though Galette is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered last offseason, he's a difference maker when healthy. During the 2013-2014 seasons, Galette 22 sacks with the New Orleans Saints. He posted 10.0 sacks and three forced fumbles during his last healthy season. Olivier Vernon had just 7.5 sacks and zero forced fumbles this past season and the New York Giants just game him $72 million. Pass-rushers don't come cheap, and for once, the Redskins have the inside on track on signing a good one.
So why haven't Galette and the Skins put pen to paper yet? What's the holdup? ESPN's John Keim has an update on the situation.
"The Redskins still want Junior Galette back, and it's hard to imagine him playing elsewhere," Keim wrote. "He's not getting the offers he thought he would and the Redskins have the right of first refusal. Galette wants a one-year deal, and the Redskins now appear willing to give him one. But the money clearly hasn't yet been agreeable with Galette, who now must decide if he wants to take their offer or not."
According to Keim, the ball appears to be squarely in Galette's court. Conceding the one-year offer, so Galette can re-enter free agency next year, is a big sign of good faith on Washington's part. Now it's time for Galette, who has significant off-field issues to combat, to return the favor. A reunion between both sides makes the most sense for all parties involved.
The Redskins were a middle of the pack team rushing the passer last year, finishing with just 38.0 sacks on the year. With 2014 second-rounder Trent Murphy failing to develop as hoped, signing Galette would address an immediate need and he would provide a more significant impact than potential free agent signees such as Andre Branch and Chris Long. Adding Galette into a pass-rush rotation that also includes Ryan Kerrigan (9.5 sacks in 2015) and Preston Smith (led all rookie with 8.0 sacks) would give the Skins some impressive depth at a crucial position.
Let's see if the two sides can work something out.
For more, follow Brandon Katz on Twitter: @Great_Katzby
