A pair of defenders will be returning to the Washington Football Team next season after opting out in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. Defensive end Caleb Brantley and linebacker Josh Harvey-Clemons are both under contract and will return to the team in 2021, according to Ben Standig of The Athletic.
Harvey-Clemons explained last year he was taking the precaution from the virus due to him and his sons suffering from severe asthma. He will be returning to a new coaching staff in Washington. Where exactly he fits in will be interesting.
The 2017 seventh-round draft pick is no roster lock. But, considering the team is looking to revamp their linebacker group, he has the opportunity to impress defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and carve out a role.
Meanwhile, Brantley was the first Washington player to opt out of 2020 season. He was designated as “higher risk” on the NFL’s transaction wire. Brantley appeared in eight games between 2018 and 2019 with Washington. He will look to add depth along their talented and stacked defensive line.
