The defense of the Washington Redskins is not what one would call good. They ranked 24th in opposing passing yards per game (249.4), allowed almost 5.0 yards per carry on first downs and finished just 21st in sacks last season (36). But with roughly $25 million in salary cap space this offseason, they have the opportunity to add some talent to that side of the ball.
We already know that the Redskins are interested in free agent defensive tackle Terrance Knighton. But who else is owner Dan Snyder willing to open his checkbook for?
"Jason Worilds, OLB: Brian Orakpo is likely to be playing elsewhere next season, and the Redskins need an edge player to add to the mix with Ryan Kerrigan and Trent Murphy," ESPN NFL Insider Matt Williamson wrote. "Worilds' open-market demands might be lofty after he received the transition tag last year, but there are a lot of edge players available, which could drive his demands down to some degree."
Kerrigan enjoyed a breakout season last year with 13.5 sacks but his game isn't entirely focused on pass-rushing. Murphy was a second-round pick with a high ceiling but a low floor. Orakpo, meanwhile, will almost certainly not be back in D.C. next season. That leaves an opening at the outside linebacker position that Worilds would fill nicely.
Worilds recorded 59 tackles with 7.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one interception for the Pittsburgh Steelers last year. At just 27-years-old, he has the combination of youth and talent that new Redskins general manager Scot McCloughan is looking for in free agency. Competition for the productive linebacker will be high -- with the Philadelphia Eagles rumored to be serious suitors -- but owner Dan Snyder usually gets what he wants.
