Baltimore Ravens: Would They Roll Dice on Daryl Washington?
By Erik Lambert
The Baltimore Ravens are never above giving veteran players another chance to extend their careers, even ones with iffy backgrounds.
Especially ones who could be really helpful. Most people by now have heard the news that emerging stud linebacker Zach Orr, the Ravens’ leading tackler in 2016, was forced to retire. A significant neck condition that could put his long-term health in jeopardy made that decision inevitable. Necessary as it was, it also put the defense in a bind. His exit leaves a sizable hole at the inside linebacker position that won’t be so easy to fill.
Former 2nd round pick Kamalei Correa will get the first attempt. This after playing his rookie year on the outside. It will be an interesting transition, and unfortunately one that won’t produce the same results Orr would’ve. Then again it’s not like the team has many options. Or do they?
Depending on how risky they’re willing to be, one name just became available that might solve all their problems.
#AZCardinals release LB Daryl Washington. Team: It is "best to release Daryl and give him the opportunity to continue his career elsewhere."
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 11, 2017
Daryl Washington is high-risk-high-reward
At one point in time there was no doubt that Daryl Washington was the next superstar inside linebacker in the NFL. His playmaking skills spanned the full spectrum from tackler to blitzer to coverage artist. He could do it all. In 2012 alone he had 134 tackles, nine sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles. Sadly he put most of his prime years on the backburner as he was suspended twice for violating league substance abuse policies.
The man hasn’t played a game since 2013, but now he’s back and wants to regain the luster he lost. All he needs is an opportunity. Word is he’s in shape. Why shouldn’t the Ravens give him a shot? He’ll likely accept an incentive-laden deal for one year. If he flops it doesn’t hurt the bottom line and if he excels then the team solves their problem and can re-sign him later.
Sure there could be a bit of PR blowback from such a move, but the guy did his time and his transgressions aren’t even on the same level as Ray Rice and others. It’s a potentially great move in both the short and long-term.