Redskins Roster Review: Defense

Even if you only saw one Redskins game last year, you would have left knowing the strong point of the team was it's defense.

The 'Skins finished the season ranked 4th overall on yards allowed. Defensive coordinator Greg Blatche has repeatedly defended his players and his scheme, but there is definitely room for improvement.

The defense ranked 29th in takeaways last season, only taking the ball from their opponents 18 times. They also posted only 24 sacks, placing them in the cellar of the NFC. Moves this off season should help to raise these numbers.

Vinny Cerrato is back to true form this off season, making huge splashes wit the signings of DeAngelo Hall and the $100 million man, Albert Haynesworth. These two players should make a big difference in both categories.

Hall, who with the team for the second half of the season, had three interceptions in his short time with the team. An off season with the coaches and his teammates will only increase his production, but the big man in the middle will help him the most.

Haynesworth is a beast up front, taking on double and triple teams while still reaching the quarterback. This also frees up teammates to get the quarterback, and will also make quarterbacks throw errant passes which the defensive backs can jump on.

Even with these additions, there are gaps. An experienced starting outside linebacker is needed as well as another pass rusher, but overall the group is moving in the right direction.