OLB Jamaal Westerman, Rex's "designated pass rusher," just underwent surgery in the past two weeks over a torn groin, according to Jenny Vrentas. Westerman played all 16 games with the tear, not realizing the severity of it until after the season was over. Westerman recorded 3.5 sacks and one forced fumble. Perhaps this helps explain why Westerman was not able to develop into the pass rushing force that Rex had initially declared him to be. These kinds of injuries happen all the time, however, so I don't believe there is too much to read into it. Westerman is a restricted free agent now, so it will be interesting to see how the team deals with him after the poor season he had.
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