4. Broderick Washington, DL, Ravens
Broderick Washington’s roster spot wasn’t exactly in jeopardy. But if there was any doubt about his roster status, he put it to bed on Saturday.
Washington received the start with the likes of Calais Campbell, Brandon Williams, and Derek Wolfe resting giving him an increased opportunity to make an impact.
And he more than held his own with the starters.
Washington finished with a pair of tackles and was a force in the run game all night long. Don’t let the stat sheet fool you — Washington was one of the more impactful players when on the field.
A fifth-round pick a year ago, Washington played eight games as a rookie and struggled to do much of anything with his playing time.
In 161 defensive snaps, the Texas Tech product managed just two tackles and was mostly a non-factor.
But the Ravens still believe that Washington could be a solid rotational defensive lineman and help lead the future defensive front of the defense.
He was likely going to make the roster regardless, even in spite of his legal issues. But Saturday’s performance confirmed what we already know.
Washington could be in line for an increased role in 2021.