What Bobby McCain adds to Washington’s secondary
The Washington Football Team had a solid secondary in 2020. It could’ve been better but more than held its own throughout the season. However, the coaching staff entered the 2021 offseason wanting to add a true free safety and quality depth at cornerback.
For the most part, Washington has accomplished that mission. The WFT’s signing of veteran defensive back Bobby McCain gives the team another veteran defensive back who can play multiple positions. McCain has played free safety, slot corner and outside corner during his six seasons in Miami.
Washington head coach Ron Rivera values versatility in his defenders. So, with the signing of McCain, Washington now has McCain, Landon Collins, Kamren Curl, Troy Apke, Deshazor Everett, Jeremy Reaves and Darrick Forrest as options at safety.
As for cornerback, WFT has Kendall Fuller, William Jackson III, Jimmy Moreland, Daryl Roberts, Benjamin St-Juste, Danny Johnson and Greg Stroman.
That’s not a bad group, especially considering McCain can play corner and Fuller has the versatility to play free safety and both slot corner and outside corner.
Forrest, a rookie from Cincinnati, also played both safety spots in college.
McCain isn’t going to remind anyone of Ed Reed. That doesn’t mean he’s not good, though. McCain’s versatility is what made him appealing to Washington. The defense can disguise coverages better when you interchangeable players in the secondary. That’s something Washington has lacked for years.
The addition of McCain also means Curl will remain at strong safety. There was some talk that Curl could move to free safety in order for Landon Collins to return to his position of strong safety.
This is a good move for Washington for various reasons. For one, you have a player who can move around if a rash of injuries hit the cornerback position one week.
Consider this is another smart signing by Washington head coach Ron Rivera.
