Defensive end Ryan Kerrigan might have left the Washington Football Team earlier this offseason, but he won’t be leaving the NFC East. The four-time All-Pro has recently decided to join the Philadelphia Eagles, inking a one-year deal with Washington’s division rivals.
The Eagles confirmed the news on their social media.
Kerrigan, who is Washington’s all-time leader in sacks, had a productive year in 2020 despite being demoted to a backup and lining up for just 38 percent of defensive snaps. He finished the season with 5.5 sacks, 17 tackles, six QB hits, and one pass deflection.
Washington was reportedly interested in bringing back Kerrigan but again offered him a lesser role as the team turned to younger players. After considering everything, the 32-year-old veteran opted to go to Philadelphia, where he believes he’ll have a better chance of contributing.
“Whether I’m a starter or a reserve, I still imagine I’ll get a lot of playing time,” Kerrigan explained his decision to ESPN. “That was a big thing for me.”
Ryan Kerrigan’s arrival will probably cause mixed feelings among the Eagles’ fanbase, considering how prolific he was playing against their team. Kerrigan has 13.5 career sacks when playing Philly, tied for most he has against a single NFL team.
Kerrigan spent 10 seasons with Washington, a team that picked him No. 16 in the 2011 NFL Draft. During his time with the franchise, he played 156 games while earning four All-Pro nods. His career stats include 95.5 sacks, 147 QB hits, 454 tackles, 26 forced fumbles, and three defensive touchdowns.
