Daryl Washington

Washington would be among the top-ranked linebackers, but he'll be suspended for the season for violating the NFL's Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

In his first three seasons, Washington has improved substantially as a pass rusher and overall tackler, but his offseason troubles (suspended first four games of 2013) have decreased his IDP potential.

Washington, who is emerging as one of the league’s best linebackers, has the talent to out-produce his ranking in most leagues, particularly after finishing 2011 with 107 tackles (95 solo), five sacks and two interceptions in 15 games. Washington is a rangy threat in coverage and a disruptive blitzer, making him especially valuable in leagues that reward heavily for sacks and interceptions. But as good as his numbers were last year, the Cardinals defense played more snaps than any other team in 2011, so Washington’s situation couldn’t have been much more favorable. Consider last year’s numbers somewhat of a best-case scenario, though those who prefer to be aggressive should keep his upside in mind.

Washington will have to compete for a starting spot next to Paris Lenon in Arizona’s 3-4, but you have to like his chances of getting the job done. He’s a bit lighter than the traditional 3-4 prototype, but Washington is a rare athlete for a linebacker and has a knack for making big plays, both as a blitzer and in coverage. He’s probably worth moving up the list if it could be entirely guaranteed that he’d start the full season, so he probably presents more upside than most other linebackers in his range.

Washington, who the Cards moved up to snag, is an upside play with athleticism, and he fills a need at linebacker for the team. He'll begin training camp as the backup to Paris Lenon, but Washington will ultimately determine how soon he takes over a starting job with his progress throughout training camp. There's a lot to like here, and Washington may eventually be a viable IDP option at linebacker.