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Position Battles: Inside Linebackers
London Fletcher - Fletcher has picked up right where he left off last season. He is the unquestioned leader of the defense and one of the best middle linebackers in the NFL. He is a liability against some of the better tight ends in pass coverage, but will continue to be a tackling machine.
Trending: No change
Perry Riley - Riley has not necessarily jumped off the TV screen in any of the preseason games so far, but is going into the season looking to build on his solid 2012. Like Fletcher, he is a good tackler and will be a steady and dependable "Jack" linebacker in 2013.
Trending: No change
Bryan Kehl - He is off to another good preseason, with 10 tackles and 1.5 sacks in two games. Kehl seems to be a solid bet to make this team as a backup who can play both inside linebacker positions and be a force on special teams, possibly filling the roll left open by Lorenzo Alexander's departure.
Trending: Up
Roddrick Muckelroy - Coming into this season, the Redskins thought Muckelroy could possibly contribute as a defensive reserve and special teams gunner. Unfortunately, he has been injured recently and did not play against the Steelers. Unless he is able to make an impact soon he may be on the outside looking in come September.
Trending: Down
William Compton - While Muckelroy has been almost invisible, Compton has really stepped up his game. He had three really nice tackles last Monday (five tackles overall) and has made his presence felt in the preseason displaying good speed and field awareness. He will be one to watch in the next two weeks to see if he can continue to capitalize on his opportunities.
Trending: Up
Nick Barnett - The ten year veteran has been spending time getting up to speed on the defensive scheme since he signed with the Redskins back on August 1st. Reports are that he will play his first game on Saturday against the Bills.
Trending: N/A
Marvin Burdette - Burdette has played sparingly despite being healthy. He may still be a candidate for the practice squad but will need to show something on the field soon.
Trending: Down
Quan Sturdivant - Sturdivant is another late addition who has not gotten any game action yet. He has only been on the team since August 15th so it unclear how much time he will get on Saturday.
Trending: N/A
Jeremy Kimbrough - Kimbrough suffered a torn labrum in the opening game against the Titans and is out for the year.
Trending: N/A