Washington Redskins Player Profile 2016: CB Bashaud Breeland

Washington Redskins CB Bashaud Breeland set to be among NFL’s best cornerbacks in 2016.

Entering his third year in the NFL, Redskins cornerback Bashaud Breeland has something extra to play for in 2016. Elite CB Josh Norman coming to town forces Breeland to prove himself as one of the best corners in the league.

Breeland has been a shutdown corner in both of his rookie and sophomore seasons and the Redskins want him to continue to play at that high level. Norman joining the team will not deter the 24-year-old from showcasing his skills on the field. If anything, the addition of Norman could send more balls in the direction of Breeland.

In the third year of his rookie contract, the young corner can make 2016 a standout season that the Redskins will heavily consider if they intend to keep him in Washington for the long-term. Redskins GM Scot McCloughan has expressed interest in keeping Breeland with the team beyond his rookie contract.

In his first two seasons, Breeland played 31 games, recording 4 interceptions, 117 tackles, and 33 assists on tackles. Of course, the true talent of a top tier corner often goes unseen in the stat line. On tape, Breeland has looked terrific and he uses his athleticism and long arms to matchup with opposing receivers.

Redskins coach Jay Gruden and McCloughan have both acknowledged the long-term talent they see in Breeland. Gruden even went so far as saying that Breeland role will not change, even with Norman’s addition, in an interview with Redskins.com.

[His role] does not change at all He is considered a top corner. You kind of laugh at how you’d say you’ve got a No. 1 receiver, No. 2 receiver. You need two to three good receivers, and you need three to four good cornerbacks.

Oct 12, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins safety Bashaud Breeland (26) and linebacker Will Compton (51) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It is important to remember that Breeland will not be in competition with Norman in 2016. Both corners benefit from an overall improved Redskins defense. Veteran leadership from players like captain DeAngelo Hall, along with the confidence boost that Norman brings to the defense, will allow Breeland to fully embrace his role on the field.

Also, the arrival of Norman means that opposing teams will throw at the third year corner more in 2016. Opposing offenses will have to decide between Norman and Breeland when spreading their receiving options. Both corners are intimidating to any quarterback/receiver combination. Breeland’s skill will not be taken lightly and the Redskins expect him to continue to produce.

Breeland will be in for a big year, given the improved defensive circumstances in Washington this season. A 2016 with 5 interceptions and 75 tackles would not be out of the ordinary for the young cornerback.