NFL free agency rumors: Redskins to sign Terrell McClain
Defensive tackle Terrell McClain will be switching NFC East teams, as the former Dallas Cowboy is expected to sign with the Washington Redskins.
The Washington Redskins need to improve their defensive line. As they’re expected to lose versatile threat Chris Baker, they are looking to replace him. The Redskins might have his replacement, as they are expected to sign former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Terrell McClain to a four-year deal worth over $21 million.
Source: Washington Redskins have agreed to a 4-year deal with Cowboys free agent DT Terrell McClain that will pay him more than $21 million.
— Brandon George (@DMN_George) March 9, 2017
While the deal isn’t official yet, it’s likely McClain won’t see a better offer than this one. He should slot in to replace Baker at defensive tackle. According to Pro Football Focus, McClain’s grade in 2016 was 44.9, a noticeable decline from Baker’s 82.2 grade. He’s coming of a 2016 season in which he had 2.5 sacks and 39 total tackles in 500 snaps.
This likely means they will lose Baker, who has been very good for them over the years. McClain will have some huge shoes to fill, but the Redskins had to add a defensive lineman. He fills a need for Washington, even if his cost is a little bit high. No word on how much guaranteed money he’ll get.
McClain led the Cowboys in tackles among defensive lineman in his first year getting significant playing time. His 2.5 sacks were also a career high. McClain isn’t quite the pass rusher Baker is, but he’s a very solid run stopper. If that’s what the Redskins are looking for, he should be a perfect fit. McClain should help fix the Redskins run defense, which finished in the bottom 10 in the NFL last season.
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The Cowboys will have to find a replacement for him. However, they have solid depth, so they should be able to fill his role. If nothing else, expect them to be aggressive to solve their needs in the draft.