Ravens DL Broderick Washington In Line For Starting Role

The Ravens saw veteran defensive end Calais Campbell depart in free agency after making him a cap casualty. That left a vacancy in their starting lineup, but an outside addition is unlikely to be made to fill it.

In-house option Broderick Washington is slated to take over Campbell’s starting spot along the D-line, as noted by Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic (subscription required). The 26-year-old has been used in a rotational capacity to date during his career, but a step up to a first-team role on a permanent basis would come as little surprise given the increases in his workload which have taken place.

Washington has seen his defensive snap shares rise from 30% to 32% and 44% over the course of his three seasons in the league. The former fifth-rounder produced a career-high 49 tackles last season, adding one sack, four QB hits and six pass deflections. A full-time starting position would allow him to build off those numbers, something which could have signficant financial implications.

The Texas Tech product is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and a strong performance in 2023 could boost his free agent value considerably. The Ravens already have Justin Madubuike in place as a prime extension candidate along the defensive front, after he continued his career ascent with a personal-best 5.5 sacks last season. Running back J.K. Dobbins, a fellow 2020 draftee, is also eligible for a new deal, something the team is interested in getting worked out.

The Ravens added Angelo Blackson as a depth member of their D-line for this season, but Washington should be expected to handle starting duties alongside Madubuike and either Michael Pierce or Travis Jones. Another step forward in production could set Washington up for a considerable payday considering the upward trajectory of the DT market showcased this offseason. For the meantime, though, his attention will turn to another increase in playing time and expectations.

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