The Washington Redskins opted against re-signing nose tackle Terrence Knighton and have yet to sign a replacement in free agency. It’s possible that the team could wind up not signing or drafting another nose tackle this offseason because of veterans already on the roster, and because of a philosophical shift.
Despite running a defensive front classified as a 3-4 (which utilizes two ends, a nose tackle and four linebackers), Redskins defensive coordinator Joe Barry and his charges often shift to their nickel package, which utilizes a four-man front (with two edge rushers and two interior linemen) amd is better designed to defend the pass.