Ranking the Redskins Linebackers

Next up in my positional breakdown series is the linebacking group. Remember this is a ranking of where these guys would rank across the league, not just on the Redskins. It is meant to be a reasonable expectation for their production level for the 2013 season. Contract status and future potential are not really considered.

For my full breakdown on the positions, including the reasoning behind the rankings:

Inside Linebacker | Outside Linebacker

Tier 1:

Description: Top level starter, at elite or near elite level, absolute lock to both make the team and start. Won't face any competition for his job.

Applicable Redskins: Brian Orakpo, Ryan Kerrigan

Tier 2:

Description: Quality starter who may have some minor struggles in a given year, but overall is a good football player. Should both easily make the team and start.

Applicable Redskins: Perry Riley

Tier 3:

Description: Passable starter, can play the position and be okay, but won't consistently play at a high level. Will be streaky throughout the season and over the course of many seasons. Depending on position would be better served as a good role player, or would be the best reserve player at a position. Should make the team, though not a lock and should face competition for a starting job.

Applicable Redskins: London Fletcher

Tier 4:

Description: Replacement level starter. This is a guy who could start in a pinch or as a long-term injury replacement but will max out as an average starter, and will probably be below average. He's a guy who could be okay as a short term filler, but over an extended period will struggle. Depending on position could be a solid player, or would be a good back-up. Has a decent chance to make the team, and could get a look at a starting job, but nothing is set in stone for him.

Applicable Redskins: Keenan Robinson, Rob Jackson, Darryl Tapp

Tier 5:

Description: Solid back-up caliber player. Shouldn't really ever start, and would be below average in that capacity, but can be a short term injury replacement. Shouldn't even be much of a role player depending on the position, their best value is in their reliability as a replacement. Depending on the position, should be capable of backing up multiple positions or roles to increase their value. Has a chance to make the team, but really shouldn't be considered a starting option at all.

Applicable Redskins: Bryan Kehl, Roddrick Muckelroy,

Tier 6:

Description: Replacement level player. Not considered at all for a starting role, and isn't even considered a viable back-up. Really only has a shot to make the team if injuries thin out the competition. Overall has a poor chance to make a roster, and is a player who will likely be replaced during the season.

Applicable Redskins: Ricky Elmore, Vic So'oto

How about you? where would you rank the Redskins Linebackers for the coming season?

Also Don't forget to pick up your Free 2013 NFL Draft Guide today! Player rankings, Mock drafts, draft theory articles, Scouting reports and Player Interviews should give you plenty of insight into this year's draft class.