LaRon Landry

It looks like Landry might be over the Achilles' tendon troubles that got him sent out of Washington, as he had a productive comeback season with the Jets in 2012. As long as he's on the field, the deal is simple: the tackle totals will be high, and the interceptions will be rare. He has only six interceptions over the last six years, but he also has 233 tackles over his last 33 games, which projects to roughly 113 tackles per 16 games. He might not have particularly easy access to ballcarriers this year with a tackle machine like Antoine Bethea playing next to him, but Landry ought to make it to 90 if he plays the whole year.

Landry was placed back on the active roster in late July just in time for camp. Last season he played in eight games for the Redskins and recorded 48 tackles (35 solo). Landry should take the starting safety job in New York.

A mid-season Achilles' tendon injury cut Landry's year short, but he was highly productive in nine games in Washington’s 3-4 defense. He totaled an impressive 85 tackles (66 solo), a pace that would have easily led all defensive backs over 16 games, and his eight passes defended indicate a surprisingly effective presence in coverage, too. As a pure in-the-box safety it’s unlikely Landry will ever make much of an impact in the turnover department (one interception last year), but his unmatched tackle production easily justifies a top pick among IDP defensive backs. Moreover, his predictable presence near the line of scrimmage means he’ll be closer to the action than most DBs, so Landry can be expected to be especially consistent.

Starting safety. He has failed to live up to the expectations of a safety drafted sixth overall. He spent most of his career playing deep center field. The new defense plans to take advantage of his size and speed and play him closer to the line of scrimmage, something he is much more suited for. He has bulked up during the offseason in anticipation of the shift in his responsibilities.

Landry spent 2008 playing deep Free Safety instead of his natural position of Strong Safety around the line. He recorded two interceptions, two forced fumbles and 11 passes defensed. He will fill the same role in 2009 and should see improved stats with another year under his belt. He has the physical ability to be a ball hawking safety who can cover sideline to sideline and deliver big hits.

Landry totaled 95 tackles and 1.5 sacks in his rookie season. He spent the first half of the season playing close to the box and then moved to free safety position in the second half. With Greg Blache taking over as Defensive Coordinator Landry's exact role is unknown. Either way he is a superior athlete who will build upon his rookie campaign. He has good speed and is a strong tackler.

Drafted with the sixth overall pick in this years draft. He is slated to play the Strong Safety position, playing closer to the line to stop the run. Head Coach-Defense Gregg Williams does not like to start rookies but expect Landry to be in the lineup before long. He is very athletic and has a nose for delivering big hits.