NFL
Cornerback Bashaud Breeland Now Can Add The Ravens To The Growing List Of Teams Vying For His Services
During his first four seasons of his career, Bashaud Breeland struggled with inconsistent play. The former fourth-round pick became a full-time starter in his first season, after DeAngelo Hall tore his ACL in 2014. Immediately, Breeland showed he belonged in the NFL. He posted 58 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 13 passes defended. He received recognition on some All-Rookie teams that season as well.
By the end of the 2015 season, Breeland established himself as the no.1 defensive back for the Washington Redskins. The Redskins front office thought otherwise and signed Josh Norman before the draft that year. The move appeared to shatter Breeland’s confidence. He never rebounded from a rough start. In the first game Antonio Brown torched Breeland for eight catches, 126 yards, and two touchdowns. The following week, Dez Bryant burned Breeland for seven catches and 102 yards.
Last season, Breeland did show improvement in his game. Breeland earned a 79.0 grade according to Pro Football Focus. However, his overall body of work wasn’t up to par, and the Redskins opted not to bring him back. Breeland signed a three-year 24 million dollar deal with the Carolina Panthers at the start of free agency before it was voided due to an injury. However, Breeland has a strong market, as the Colts, Chiefs, Raiders, Browns, and Jets have all expressed some form of interest in the Clemson product. Kansas City however, has been the only team to offer Breeland an offer so far.
Why It Makes Sense
Adding Breeland makes sense for the Ravens because they have some question marks at the position. Their top corner Jimmy Smith tore his Achilles in December and also served a four-game suspension for PED’s . Brandon Carr is the most experienced cornerback on the roster but he’s 32. However, Carr did tie a career high with four interceptions last year. Tavon Young began to carve out his niche as a slot corner, but a torn ACL, wiped out a promising 2017 season.
Marlon Humphrey played better as last year progressed, but he’s only entering his second NFL season. Rookie Anthony Avery has been a standout in camp so far, but has yet to see any live game action. In today’s NFL you can never have too many defensive backs. Bashaud Breeland is a slouch by no means, and he would be a steal for the Ravens defense.
