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Information: Ryan Kerrigan
6'4", 260 lb.
Outside Linebacker
3rd Season with the Redskins
Key Career Stats:
1st Round Pick in 2011(16th overall)
1 Pro-Bowl Selection (2012)
2012 Stats: 54 Tackles, 8.5 Sacks, 2 Forced Fumbles, 1 Interception(Returned for TD)
Twitter handle: @RyanKerrigan91
2012 Highlight: As one half of the dynamic linebacking duo better known as Kerrakpo, Kerrigan had a decent season despite playing without his partner in crime for most of 2012. Brian Orakpo tore a pectoral muscle in Week 2 and was lost for the year. While Kerrigan did not put on the consistent pressure that fans would like to see, he was steady overall and was named to his first Pro Bowl. He also managed to have his second pick six in two years in Week 5 and showed a knack for getting his hands in position to create batted balls and forced fumbles.
2012 Lowlight: Kerrigan sometimes seemed to get lost in the shuffle and would disappear in stretches. In his defense, opposing teams would often double team him in pass protection, as there was not a persistent threat on the other side once Orakpo went down. He occasionally looked awkward in coverage and could get badly beaten by some of the better tight ends in the league when playing back and not rushing the passer.
What is coming in 2013: In his two years in the league, he has had 7.5 and 8.5 sacks, respectively, and will hopefully continue to improve when Orakpo comes back to man the other side. His athleticism, strength and quickness is above average and is he very capable of putting up big sack numbers with a full complement of help on the defensive line. The team is relying on Kerrigan and Orakpo to keep steady pressure on opposing quarterbacks this season. If they can stay healthy and make things uncomfortable in the backfield, the Redskins will be in a much better position to force turnovers and help out their secondary.