The Washington Redskins will go into this season with high hopes along with their new and improved defensive line. They made a few affordable splashes in free agency that just might help this unit get over the hump. The biggest addition splash was the signing of Terrance Knighton.

The Redskins signed Knighton to a one-year, $4 million deal. What does that mean? This is a contract year and Knighton is going to look to cash in next season, making this an all-in season. He needs to perform well in order to get the money he deserves.

Knighton is 6-foot-3, 321 pounds. His stats aren’t that pretty, but let’s look at some key numbers for him. His pass rushing productivity went from a 4.8 to a 9.1. This ranks him fourth among defensive tackles, making an unbelievable difference for the Redskins’ D-line this year.

Last year, the Redskins gave up 107.6 yards rushing per game, ranking 12th in the NFL. This wasn’t so bad, especially since the D-line was banged up, but the team needed someone with more power and talent. Enter “The Big Pot Roast.” Last year, the Denver Broncos were ranked second in rush defense, only allowing 79.8 yards a game.

Knighton was a big piece who helped form that formidable defense out West in Mile High. He’s a run-stopper who can clog the running lanes and command double-teams, freeing up the rest of our defense to make plays. His stats aren’t that of J.J. Watt, but his presence on the D-line is like that of Vince Wilfork, and he can bring this D-line back to dominance.

The Redskins have revamped their defense with the addition of Knighton and they will be in for a big run-stopping year. They will finish in the top-five in fewest rushing yards allowed per game.