The Redskins opted for linebacking depth rather than the local kid with their fourth-round pick Saturday. Washington selected LSU linebacker Perry Riley, taking him over offensive tackle Bruce Campbell from Maryland.
But it’s clear that many teams weren’t that high on Campbell and that had to include the Redskins, who could still need some youth on the right side of the line. However, Riley also provides something Washington needs: linebacking depth.
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He played weakside linebacker LSU in a 4-3, but likely projects to an inside linebacker in a 3-4; Riley said teams told him before the draft that likely was his future spot. Even if Rocky McIntosh returns, the Redskins needed more players who could play inside. At 6-foot-1, 239 pounds, Riley has the size to handle the punishment the inside linebackers face. Here’s a scouting report on Riley.
“It’s going to be a transition, but I don’t think it will be too hard,” Riley said. “Linebacker is linebacker. You get in there and you see ball, hit ball. Find a running back and tackle him, blitz and beat the offensive guard. It’s all the same.”
Pro Football Weekly described him as someone who can “bring the wood” and is a physical run defender. He can also play special teams.
On a sidenote, the Georgia native has family on his mom’s side in Richmond and grew up rooting for the Redskins.
He’s not even sure who called him from the Redskins.
“I was really happy, I didn’t hear the name,” Riley said. “I just know it was a 703 number that called me. I had a feeling it was one of the teams. I didn’t know what team it was at the time and then they told me it was the Redskins. I was so excited.”
