The Washington Commanders have re-signed linebacker Khaleke Hudson for the 2023 season.
The Commanders announced they signed LB Khaleke Hudson to a one-year extension. He was set to be a restricted free agent.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 12, 2023
Hudson was drafted in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL draft (162 overall), the first draft with Ron Rivera in the new coach-centric system of the then-Washington Redskins. Note: Kyle Smith was still employed by Washington at the time and was front and center during that draft, certainly appearing to have directed the draft board and actual selections.
Hudson, a former Michigan Wolverine, has appeared in 41 games for Washington during his three seasons in burgundy and gold.
Hudson has shown himself in preseasons to be sort of a hybrid linebacker, able to move well enough for pass coverage. But strangely, Hudson has been a player who each season, though expected to see more time, has received little playing time on defense, his contributions coming almost entirely on special teams.
Similarly to quarterback Sam Howell, Hudson also was given his only start of the year against Dallas and also was solid. Hudson had only been given five defensive snaps during the season before being given all 67 during the season finale against Dallas.
Talked w some coaches tonight and kept hearing really high marks about two defensive players – Danny Johnson and Khaleke Hudson. Both played very well and took advantage of opportunities
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) January 9, 2023
Rivera himself, a former NFL linebacker, lauded Hudson following the 26-6 victory over Dallas, saying that “Hudson had a tremendous game.”