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Free Agent Profiles: Get to Know Detroit’s Newest Additions

By Ryan O'Bleness

Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow answers questions during a press conference at Westin Houston Memorial City Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow answers questions during a press conference at Westin Houston Memorial City Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cornelius Washington, Defensive End

Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Cornelius Washington (90) sacks Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Cornelius Washington (90) sacks Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /

Previous Team(s): Chicago Bears, 2013-2016

Draft: 2013: Round 6, Pick 188 out of Georgia

Career Stats: 30 tackles, three sacks

Washington is perhaps the most unproven signee so far. He’s played in 31 games for Chicago, with just two starts. Two of his three career sacks came in 2016 – including one against his new quarterback, Matthew Stafford. Washington and Stafford were actually college teammates for one season at Georgia.

The Lions need help along the defensive line, and must bolster the pass rush. Can Washington help to do that? Personally, I don’t see him being anything more than a rotational player. However, Kerry Hyder played exceptionally well in that role in 2016. Under the right system and coaching, Washington could certainly be successful.

He does know Detroit well – playing against the team twice each of the past four seasons. That can bode well for helping him to adjust to new teammates and coaches. Washington is signed to a two-year deal.

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