The start of free agency is one week. The Washington Football Team is looking to build off their NFC East winning season a year ago. With a projected $54.2 million of cap space, Washington is in the position of improving its roster a great deal. However, the team is also looking to keep some of its own pending free agents.
The team placed the franchise tag on Brandon Scherff, insuring the All-Pro guard will be under contract at least one more season. Washington is also interested in retaining cornerback Ronald Darby, according to the Washington Post’s Nicki Jhabvala and Sam Fortier.
“Washington is interested in retaining Darby, according to people with knowledge of the situation. Darby joined the team on a one-year prove-it deal in 2020 and could be looking at a significant pay increase to $9 million or $10 million a year.”
The 27-year old Ronald Darby played the 2020 season on a prove-it deal after three injury-plagued seasons with Philadelphia. Darby emerged as Washington’s most consistent cornerback alongside Kendall Fuller.
Their abilities helped Washington become the second-ranked defense in the NFL. Now, Darby is seeking to cash in following his resurgence season. His expected value of about $10 million per year matches what Fuller is making on a four-year $40 million deal he signed with Washington in 2020.
If, a deal is worked out, Washington would have their solid duo of outside corners locked in for multiple years. That would allow Washington to shift its focus on a slot cornerback and wide range free safety to pair next to rookie sensation Kam Curl.
