Zach Brown was signed by the Redskins this offseason after making the Pro Bowl with the Buffalo Bills last year. Brown didn't command top ILB money on the open market due to some coverage issues, but was signed to a 1 year, $2.3 million contract. He also had another $2.55 million that should be earned through roster and performance bonuses during the season.
The Redskins were in need of an upgrade at ILB this season and Brown has provided that. He began the season starting next to Mason Foster, and has been the only constsnt at the position this year. Last year's starters Foster and Will Compton are both free agents next year and ended their seasons on injured reserve. 2015 5th round pick Martrell Spaight is a backup, who is getting beat out by street free agent Zach Vigil for playing time.
Brown leads the team (and the NFL) in tackles with 117, and is on pace to have more than his career high last year. He is also credited with 2.5 sacks and 2 passes defended. Brown has started every game for the Redskins this season.
Lost amid all of the speculation about Kirk Cousins future (I expect a tag), the Skins are working to extend LB Zach Brown I'm told
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) December 3, 2017
Fans have been calling for the Redskins to extend Brown for weeks, and they may finally be getting their wish. Jason La Canfora reports that Washington is working on a new deal to lock Brown up long term. Brown, along with safety D.J. Swearinger, have been the team's best free agent acquisitions this season and will be important pieces as the defense continues to be rebuilt.
The Redskins need to get this deal done, and continue to build up a defense that was held back by injuries this year. They focused heavily on defense in the draft and free agency, but losing top pick Jonathan Allen and many others has limited their ability to improve from last year. Brown has played through multiple injuries this year and deserves a new deal.