The Washington Redskins didn’t take long to fill their need at pass rusher following their decision to move on from veteran Junior Galette. The Redskins have decided to sign veteran outside linebacker Pernell McPhee, whom they met with last week, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Washington announced it signed free agent linebacker Pernell McPhee.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 26, 2018
McPhee, 29, spent his first four years in the league with the Baltimore Ravens before signing a five-year, $38.75 million deal with the Chicago Bears in free agency. However, he was released earlier this offseason by the Bears after just three years in Chicago. He played 13 games (five starts) last season, recording 4.0 sacks and 21 total tackles.
McPhee struggled to consistently stay on the field in Chicago as he missed 12 games over his three-year stint. When he’s been healthy enough to stay on the field, though, McPhee has proven to be a highly productive rotational pass rusher. He’s got 31.0 sacks to go along with a host of quarterback hits and pressures over the course of his seven-year career.
He figures to be an ideal replacement for Galette, who finally got the chance to play after two lost seasons due to back-to-back Achilles tears. Galette played well last season, but if healthy, McPhee is capable of reaching a similar level for the Redskins.
McPhee will likely serve as the primary backup to Washington’s two strong edge rushers, Ryan Kerrigan and Preston Smith, who combined for 21.0 sacks last season. Second-year linebacker Ryan Anderson also figures to be in the mix for more snaps on the outside along with McPhee after Trent Murphy also departed for the Buffalo Bills earlier this offseason.
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