The Washington Redskins have brought in free-agent edge rusher Pernell McPhee for a visit, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports.
Former #Bears LB Pernell McPhee is visiting the #Redskins, source said, on a visit that will continue to Monday. His first known visit of free agency.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 19, 2018
McPhee, 29, was cut by the Chicago Bears after three seasons in order to free themselves of his $7.7 million cap hit for the 2017 season. However, he has not had much of a market since his release, with his trip to Washington his first known visit in free agency.
McPhee was largely a disappointment in Chicago after signing a five-year, $38.75 million deal in 2015 from the Baltimore Ravens. He started just 17 out of a possible 48 games with the team, while recording a mere 14 sacks. He had his problems staying on the field as he missed 12 games due to injuries; he missed just four games in his first four years in the league.
Despite the loss of Trent Murphy in free agency, the Redskins aren’t exactly in desperate need of edge rushers at the moment. Starters Ryan Kerrigan and Preston Smith combined for 21.0 sacks last season. Meanwhile, Ryan Anderson could see his role increase in his second year.
However, they could still do with one more proven player at that position, especially if they fail to re-sign veteran Junior Galette. They could also potentially opt to find an upgrade over Galette, who recorded just 3.0 sacks in his first campaign since missing consecutive seasons due to back-to-back torn Achilles tendons.
McPhee flourished in his first few years in Baltimore as more of a situational pass rusher. Perhaps a return to that type of limited and specific role in Washington could be a better fit for him in the long run.
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