Redskins defense in 2009 & 2010

Yesterday, we reviewed the Washington Redskins offense in 2009 and took a look ahead to 2010 for each position. Today, we do the same for the defense.

DEFENSIVE LINE: B

2009: The pass rush was much improved, going from 24 sacks in 2008 to 40 sacks in 2009. DE Andre Carter and SLB/DE Brian Orakpo led the charge, accounting for 11 sacks each. DT Albert Haynesworth played more than the 60% of snaps envisioned at the beginning of the season, but he missed 4 games, as he usually does. When on the field, Haynesworth played well, drawing double teams and making plays at the line of scrimmage. However, the rush defense regressed, allowing 4.1 yards per carry, 21st in the NFL. DE Phillip Daniels played the run well as long as it was run at his side, but he no longer has the speed to pursue or rush the passer. DT Cornelius Griffin played well most of the season and still draws some double teams, but he wears down in December every year, the result of a lot of wear and tear over the years. DT Kedric Golston actually outplayed Griffin much of the time and looks like an absolute keeper. DL Lorenzo Alexander continued to impress in limited playing time and rookie DE Jeremy Jarmon showed flashes of real speed and ability before a serious injury ended his season.

2010: If the Redskins go to a 3-4 defense, as many expect, major changes will be made along the line. Orakpo will fit in perfectly as an outside pass-rushing linebacker. Golston can play tackle in a 4-3 defense, but could easily switch to end in a 3-4 defense and might be a real upgrade. Andre Carter seems suited to play the other outside 'backer in a 3-4, but he struggled at that position in San Francisco. Jarmon seems a bit too small to play end in a 3-4, but he it's certainly possible he could move to outside linebacker and rush the passer. Chris Wilson is lean and speedy and well-suited to the role of outside pass-rushing linebacker. The major issue is Haynesworth and whether or not he will accept playing in a 3-4 defense. He will mightily resist moving to nose tackle, a position that requires incredible durability and endurance -- two things Haynesworth possesses in very small amounts. He would be better suited to end in a 3-4, but he might not have the discipline to play that position. The only player currently on the roster who seems physically capable of playing nose tackle is Haynesworth and he'd probably break down in less than half a season. He might wind up demanding a trade before the season even begins. The Redskins have some work to do with the roster if they're going to run a 3-4 defense next year.

LINEBACKERS: B+

Read full article at

http://www.dcprosportsreport.com/articles/washington-redskins/redskins-defense-in-2009-a-2010.html