Washington Redskins: LeGarrette Blount will provide early test for defense

If the Washington Redskins defense can suppress LeGarrette Blount, anything is possible.

With LeGarrette Blount now the featured running back of the Philadelphia Eagles, he’ll be in the crosshairs of the Washington Redskins defense come Week 1. When the two teams played last October, the Redskins enjoyed complete domination, though the victory was only by a touchdown.  Last season, the Eagles were No. 11 in the running game.

In May, Blount signed a one-year, $1.25 million deal, and is expected to be the lead running back. Rumor has it that running back Ryan Matthews is expected to be cut once he passes his physical.

The addition of Blount to the Eagles roster should be an area of concern for the Redskins defense. The guy is a top 10 running back. Last season, he finished with 1,161 yards. 2016 was his best season ever, capping it with a Super Bowl ring.

But what could the Eagles camp have in mind for their newly acquired running back? He might take some catches. According to CSN Philly’s Reuben Frank, the Eagles could surprise the Redskins with injecting Blount into their passing game. This would be be interesting because Blount has hands.

Last season, he only caught seven for 38 yards. However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made him a target in 2011, resulting in 15 catches for 148 yards. More than likely he would probably be a bluff tactic to see how the Redskins would respond. Redskins safeties should stay on alert.

Week 1 will set the pace for the Redskins. Coming off a successful offseason and fantastic draft, they’ll be looking to make a statement. That statement will come in the form of a crushing defense and a solid, consistent offense.

Next: Washington Redskins: Josh Norman faces big test in 2017

Facing strong running backs immediately will help evaluate their defensive scheme, and that’s a good thing. If there’s anyone that can expose a defense, it’s LeGarrette Blount.