Washington Redskins Give Rocky McIntosh Second Chance in 3-4 Defense

After spending most of the free-agency period being touted as a likely departure from Redskins Park, inside linebacker Rocky McIntosh has been retained by the Washington Redskins.

It had long been felt that McIntosh would join a team playing a 4-3 front.  McIntosh was one of many Redskins defenders who looked uncomfortable with the switch to a 3-4 last season.

Now, McIntosh gets another opportunity to prove that he can produce in the new scheme.  The five-year pro possesses the skill set to make the transition work.

McIntosh is an active playmaker from the linebacker position.  He has good lateral speed and excellent instincts.

Despite appearing to struggle in the 3-4 in 2010, the 28-year-old still managed to register 110 tackles.  This represents the highest total of his career.

At 6'2" and 242 pounds, McIntosh has sufficient size to handle the responsibilities of playing inside in a 3-4.  His quickness and energy are valuable assets.

McIntosh's presence allows veteran London Fletcher to play closer to the line and be a force against the run and in the underneath zones.

McIntosh is also a decent blitzer.  His experience and proficiency at outside linebacker gives Jim Haslett the option of utilising him as an edge-rusher in certain sub packages.  This could work in a similar way to how the Pittsburgh Steelers use Lawrence Timmons.

Securing McIntosh gives the Redskins a solid linebacking corps for 2011.  With youngster Perry Riley and veterans Lorenzo Alexander and H.B. Blades also available, the Redskins have the makings of a healthy rotation.