Washington Redskins: Pernell McPhee adds depth to defense

The Washington Redskins added veteran linebacker Pernell McPhee on Monday to back up Ryan Kerrigan and Preston Smith.

The Washington Redskins added some defensive depth on Monday afternoon when veteran outside linebacker Pernell McPhee agreed to terms with the team. The Redskins, who lost Trent Murphy and will lose Junior Galette — their own choice — needed a veteran outside linebacker to play behind Ryan Kerrigan and Preston Smith.

McPhee has played seven years in the NFL, his first four in Baltimore before signing a big free-agent deal with the Chicago Bears, where he played the last three seasons. McPhee’s versatility in Baltimore is what made him a commodity on the open market. Injuries, however, slowed McPhee down during his time in Chicago. Over the last three seasons, McPhee missed a total of 12 games. He finished the 2017 season on injured reserve after suffering a shoulder injury.

So, what is Washington getting in McPhee?

At 6-3, 270 pounds, McPhee is a big, physical linebacker who can set the edge in the running game. He’s not a quick-twitch rusher, which is something this team lacks now with Galette leaving. Of course, it’s not like Galette racked up the sacks in 2017, although he did play well down the stretch and deserved more opportunities.

The Redskins wanted to be better against the run in 2018. While they have yet to address the defensive line, McPhee’s addition gives Washington another strong player against the run. And, as a backup, McPhee will play fewer snaps, which the Redskins hope keeps him healthy and effective. Kerrigan and Smith were outstanding last season, a big reason for that was because the team kept them fresh.

Former second-round pick Ryan Anderson must also step up in 2018. Early signs are encouraging for Anderson this offseason and if he proves to be the player the team thinks he is, this group will be better than it was a year ago. Anderson is strong against the run, too, but showed little as a pass-rusher as a rookie in 2017.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Post-free agency 3 rounds

The Redskins were right not to match Murphy’s deal with Buffalo. Completely overpaid. However, they could regret not keeping Galette as he was the one rusher this team had who could’ve been described as a speed rusher. For now, though, Washington gets a solid player who can contribute in a number of ways.

Now, Bruce Allen should get to work on that defensive line.