RICHMOND, Va. -- Washington Redskins rookie linebacker Steven Daniels a sixth-round pick, will undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder and will miss the 2016 season.
“This is a part of my life since I was little,” Daniels said. “Come this time, it’s football. You get ready for a season, and now all I can do is mentally prepare and rehab.”
The blow of Daniels’ injury is softened by what the Redskins say is good depth at inside linebacker. Even without the injury, Daniels might have had a tough time making the final 53-man roster because of that depth. Typically, the Redskins will keep nine linebackers, including those on the outside.
Here’s a look at the primary inside linebackers:
Will Compton: Starter and defensive leader; a strong signal-caller who has earned the trust of teammates.
Perry Riley: Fighting for the other starting job next to Compton. He would be an expensive backup if he somehow lost the job. Coming back from a broken foot, Riley returned to practice this past week and has worked with both the starters and second unit.
Mason Foster: Filled in for Riley last season and fared well. Has split time with Riley with the No. 1 defense.
Martrell Spaight: Missed his rookie year because of a concussion, but has looked good in camp working with the No. 2 defense. He’s still learning, but clearly looks worth developing.
Terence Garvin: A good special-teams player whom the Redskins will work a little on the outside in obvious passing situations. Projects to be a backup inside.
Su’a Cravens: The second-round pick offers versatility and is starting to play faster. He’s worked with the inside linebackers only, but eventually the plan is to work him some as a nickel safety and also perhaps see if he can rush off the edge, as he did at USC.
