Daryl Washington insists he’s in the best shape ever, personally and physically

Daryl Washington insists he’s not only in the best physical shape of his life but he’s also in a healthy personal place as well.

Despite the talk around Colin Kaepernick and the talent available at other positions, the reality is that there’s not a single more intriguing free agent available right now in the NFL than linebacker Daryl Washington. The former Arizona Cardinals linebacker has a stellar resume as an All-Pro who can be an asset rushing the passer, stopping the run and dropping back in coverage. Unfortunately, Washington hasn’t played in the NFL since 2013.

What began as a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy became an indefinite suspension when Washington once again failed a test. In his absence from the game, Washington insists he’s not only stayed in game-ready shape but that he’s also got his life in order, focusing on his faith in God and surrounding himself with healthy people in order to become a better person off the field as well. Now he’s speaking confidently about the lessons he’s learned as he’s ready to show a new NFL team how much he has changed.

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Despite the fact that Washington is saying all of the right things, some teams might take notice that the Cardinals cut him anyway. They could have easily cut ties with him at some point over the last few years if they didn’t even want to bother, but the fact that they waited until he was reinstated and likely even vetted him again before releasing him might say a bit more about wha’t’s going on behind the scenes with the former Pro Bowler. That said, it’s not stopping Washington from some self-promotion, as he did in a recent interview with the Arizona Republic. When asked what he would say to a new general manager:

"I’d let them know some of the experiences that I’ve been through. This journey and this process that I’ve been able to go on. I’d just let them know and look them directly in the eyes and tell them, ‘You’re not only going to get the best football player, but I guarantee you’re going to get the best person. You’re going to get the best role model, and at this point in my career, I’m here to play football, I’m here to win, I’m here to give back to the community. I’m here to do everything that I can, and work as hard as I can and be in that positive light which I once was. You’re going to get the best person. The best of both worlds – the best player on the field and the best person. I think everything else will take care of itself."

The Kansas City Chiefs are certainly one such team who could not only handle the potential distractions or extra attention that would come with signing Washington but would likely make a good home for his price and talent. The Chiefs are up against the salary cap at this point, but Washington is likely going to have to take a prove-it deal anyway. Then again, the Chiefs have space for further competition at linebacker and could provide Washington with a perfect place to blend in. It’d be an ideal place where his talents are needed without being a cornerstone of any kind.

In his limited four-year career, Washington has 18 sacks, 6 interceptions, 24 passes defended and 3 forced fumbles.