Rookie Spotlight: Realistic Expectations for Washington Redskins' Ryan Kerrigan

One of the most pleasing aspects of the Washington Redskins' offseason so far was the team's efforts in the 2011 draft.  Particularly selecting Ryan Kerrigan in the first round.  The move could signal exciting times ahead for the Redskins defense.

Securing 12 choices was almost unheard of for a franchise that has made a habit of giving picks away.  The low key trade which saw the Redskins swap places with the Jacksonville Jaguars and in the process accrue additional selections, was the kind of move Redskins fans have been wanting to see.

When it came time for the Redskins to eventually make their first pick, the selection of Purdue defensive end Ryan Kerrigan was swift and pleasantly surprising.

The decision to add another young, outside pass-rusher to complement top pressure specialist Brian Orakpo was a smart, safe move.  The pick nicely represented the more thoughtful and measured approach favoured by the new regime of Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen.

So what can Redskins' fans reasonably expect from Ryan Kerrigan during his rookie campaign?  Will the powerful sack master be an instant success and help turn the Redskins defense into an intimidating unit?

The lockout has certainly not helped Kerrigan's cause.  A college defensive lineman, Kerrigan has been robbed of the opportunity to be carefully guided through the transition to a 3-4 by coordinator Jim Haslett and linebackers coach Lou Spanos.

But the Redskins brain trust must have seen plenty of characteristics in Kerrigan's game that could enable him to smoothly switch to operating out of a two-point stance.

At 6'4" and 267 pounds, Kerrigan is the ideal size for outside linebacker in the modern pro 3-4 scheme.  He is known for his boundless energy and maximum effort.  Kerrigan's relentless style and high motor will be key attributes in providing regular pressure off the edge.

The former boilermaker standout is a keen student of the game, a quality that can aid Kerrigan to make a speedy adaptation to the pro ranks. 

Kerrigan is an intelligent player who quickly analyses situations.  This speed of thought allows him to identify and adjust to his opponent's blocking techniques.

During his time with Purdue, Kerrigan displayed a penchant for the strip sack.  He led the Big Ten conference in forced fumbles.  This bodes well for a Redskins defense that switched schemes in order to generate more turnovers.

Kerrigan is highly productive defender with a nose for the ball.  He is a true playmaker.  Athletes don't tend to lose a natural knack for making plays on the ball.  That kind of big play capability can often compensate for any physical deficiencies exposed at the NFL level.

Kerrigan's compact build and impressive strength help him to stand up well against the run.  He will need to rely on these attributes to force running backs sideways and allow the Redskins' force players to swarm to the ball.

Kerrigan does lack elite burst off the line.  Rather than an explosive first step, Kerrigan relies more on power, brute force and smart hands technique to defeat blockers.  He is quite similar in this way to Pittsburgh Steelers ace LaMarr Wodley.

Having Lou Spanos as a positional coach will be a huge bonus for Kerrigan once players are granted permission to again work with coaches.  Spanos spent 15 seasons in Pittsburgh coaching athletes through the same transition Kerrigan is expected to make.

Another tremendous advantage Kerrigan will have is playing opposite Brian Orakpo.  The two-time Pro Bowler is well on his way to elite status in the NFL.  As refined a pass-rusher as there is in the game, Orakpo is the No. 1 danger man offensive lines must first concentrate on stopping.

Operating on the other side, Kerrigan will surely benefit from offensive lines frequently sliding the protection towards Orakpo.

Ryan Kerrigan may have less time than usual to manage a transition to a 3-4.  But he is entering a system designed to maximize his natural gifts.  His reputed hard work and high character should ensure that he makes every effort to master his new position.

Playing opposite a rush threat as prolific as Brian Orakpo and responding to Jim Haslett's zone blitz calls, Kerrigan should aim for seven to 10 sacks and 45-70 tackles in his first season.