Matt Ioannidis

Ioannidis would be a starter on most teams, after recording 22 sacks in 47 games over the past four seasons. In Washington, he's the fifth or sixth lineman -- a demotion from his starting role back in 2019, but still an important position on the team. Ioannidis isn't likely to have IDP value without an injury in front of him on the depth chart, but he does provide some interior pass-rushing juice off the bench.

Already a productive player, Ioannidis took a step forward in 2019, notching career highs for tackles (64), games (16), starts (15) and sacks (8.5). The 2017 fifth-round pick will now enter his age-26 season in Year 1 of a three-year extension, transitioning from a 3-4 defense to a 4-3 scheme under new coordinator Jack Del Rio. The change could lead to fewer snaps, especially on run downs, but it shouldn't have any impact on Ioannidis' main area of strength serving as an interior pass rusher in nickel and dime formations. He also figures to avoid double-teams, as all the other key pieces on the Washington line are first-round picks - Ryan Kerrigan (2011), Jonathan Allen (2017), Daron Payne (2018), Montez Sweat (2019), Chase Young (2020).

Ioannidis broke out in 2017 with 4.5 sacks and 17 quarterback hits -- impressive numbers for a 3-4 lineman who missed two games. He took another step in 2017 with new personals bests for tackles (31), sacks (7.5) and TFLs (six), though he dropped off to 11 QB hits in 14 games. While the statistical breakdown was a bit different, Ioannidis continued to provide a useful pass rush without sacrificing anything against the run. He's locked in to a starting job, alongside fellow d-line standouts Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen. Washington has many issues, but the front three of the defense represent a clear area of strength.

A 2016 fifth-round pick, Ioannidis was a surprise contributor with 4.5 sacks in 14 games last season, making 10 starts along the way. He's expected to start on the defensive line alongside recent first-round picks Jonathan Allen and Da'Ron Payne, but it'll likely be the Washington linebackers accounting for the vast majority of IDP production once again.

Ioannidis was selected in the fifth-round of the 2016 NFL Draft, and will likely see himself in the back half of the depth chart for the upcoming season. He was likely chosen by the Redskins to address the team’s issues along the defensive line, but Ioannidis will likely have to prove himself this preseason in order to gain a regular role in Washington’s rotation.