2009 Washington Redskins Preview: Linebackers

In this series we're taking an in-depth examination of the 2009 Washington Redskins roster one position at a time. In this edition we look at the linebackers.

Outside Linebackers

After being an absolute stud at strong side linebacker in his first three seasons for the Redskins, OLB Marcus Washington saw his career derailed by age and injuries in '07 and '08 and was eventually released at the beginning of the 2009 off season. Washington made no splashy move to replace the pro bowl linebacker and is instead looking to fill the void from within the organization. The most obvious candidate is veteran H.B. Blades, who had been groomed as the team's next starting middle linebacker before being used to replace the injured Marcus Washington last season. What Blades lacks in size and speed he makes up for in football IQ, so don't be surprised if he ends up claiming the starting job permanently. Coaches have also been trying out defensive end Chris Wilson at the outside linebacker position. Typically used as a 3rd down pass rushing specialist, Wilson has the speed and athleticism to potentially make the leap to linebacker. Additionally, first round draft pick Brian Orakpo, who is also a defensive end by trade, is being tried out as a linebacker on running downs. If all of these contingencies fail, Washington has veteran free-agent pickup Robert Thomas as an insurance policy.

Manning the weak side linebacker position will be holdover Rocky McIntosh. Since he was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2006 draft as a replacement for departing pro bowler LaVar Arrington, McIntosh has steadily improved his game. With new acquisition Albert Haynesworth eating up blockers on the defensive line, McIntosh may finally be ready for a breakout season.

Middle Linebacker

Perhaps the most steady presence on the Redskins defense is 11-year-veteran London Fletcher, who has been nothing short of stellar since he was signed as a free agent in the 2007 off season. Despite being continually snubbed by pro bowl voters, Fletcher can be counted on to tally over 100 tackles and multiple game-changing plays every season. He also provides veteran leadership on a defensive unit that is in the midst of a youth movement. Depth behind Fletcher is a concern, however. His primary backup is H.B. Blades, who is also competing for the starting job at strong side linebacker. Washington's roster lacks another player with significant experience as an inside linebacker, so it will have to depend on Fletcher to stay healthy.

Leave your questions and comments and check out the rest of the entries in the 2009 Washington Redskins preview series.