Opening Day 2011 is a day that Washington Redskins rookies Chris Neild and Ryan Kerrigan will not soon forget. The rookie Kerrigan’s story is a familiar one to knowledgeable Redskin fans: a 6’4”, 267 pound All-America defensive end out of Purdue, he is making the transition to a 3-4 outside linebacker.
Early returns indicate that the transition is going well. Kerrigan recorded 5 tackles against the New York Giants, including a third quarter interception of Eli Manning that he returned for a touchdown. With their third offensive play of the second half, Giants right tackle Kareem McKenzie attempted to cut block Kerrigan. The Redskin rookie correctly read the play, expected a quick pass, and dodged the block. Kerrigan batted down the pass at the 10 yard line, then pulled the wayward ball into his arms and raced the final 9 yards to the end zone. That play set the tone for a dominating second half performance by the Washington defense.
While Kerrigan’s performance should be expected of the 16th overall pick, Neild’s play was a surprise. The ‘Pocono Punisher’ was one pick away from being Mr. Irrelevant, selected in the 7th round/253rd overall out of West Virginia University. In only 8 snaps against the New York Giants, Neild made his presence felt with two sacks of Manning. In his entire four year career at WVU, Neild only recorded six sacks.
The fact that Neild even made the roster is a surprise, let alone the fact that he is making such an impact as the backup nose tackle. Of the 51 7th round draft picks from the 2011 draft (there are more than 32 picks due to supplemental selections), only 25 made the opening day roster of their drafting team. The Redskins recent 7th round selections include such notables as Eddie Williams (cut), Erik Cook (practice squad), and Selvish Capers (practice squad). Hopefully Neild, at 6’2” and 319 pounds, will ultimately develop into the space eating nose tackle that is required in an effective 3-4 defensive scheme.
With the exception of LB London Fletcher and FS Oshiomogho Atogwe, every Redskins defensive starter is 28 or younger. With this foundation of younger talent and fresh blood, look for the Redskins to dramatically improve their team defense in 2011 and the coming seasons.
