Why former Bulldog Montez Sweat has the ultimate mentor in Ryan Kerrigan

Sweat, drafted 26th overall by the Washington Redskins, adds much needed speed and versatility to a defense that finished 16th overall. Like Kerrigan, Sweat can line up at defensive end and/or outside linebacker. Additionally both have a nose for the ball and can set the edge while reading the eyes of the quarterback.

Throughout his two-year Mississippi State tenure, Sweat recorded 101 total tackles, 30 for loss, and 22.5 sacks. Setting the edge is king in today’s NFL, as Kerrigan is one of the game’s best. Under Kerrigan’s stewardship, Sweat is sure to make an impact. That said, Kerrigan has recorded 411 tackles, 108 for loss, 84.5 sacks, along with 127 quarterback hits in 128 games in his Redskin career.

Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky prides his defense on the blitz and getting to the quarterback, as both Sweat and Kerrigan should put up respectable numbers. However, both can also drop into coverage and play the pass, a rare element in the modern game. This combination can potentially elevate the Redskins to atop the NFC East.

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Expect Sweat to make his presence known early and become a household name within the division and beyond. As did Kerrigan throughout his rookie season, Sweat should take advantage of his speed and overall rare skillset. Kerrigan recorded 63 total tackles, nine for loss and 7.5 sacks while starting all 16 games. Look for Sweat to be a 16 game force in the nation’s capital and take the Redskins’ defense a level higher.