Redskins look in-house first to replace nose tackle Phil Taylor

ASHBURN, Va. -- The Washington Redskins had seen enough this summer to feel good about nose tackle Phil Taylor. They anticipated him becoming a key part of their defensive line rotation.

Those plans have now changed dramatically, leaving the Redskins to figure out what they’ll do in his absence. Taylor tore his left quad against Cincinnati on Sunday and will miss the season.

It’s tough to rely on a guy who had not played since 2014, but such was the state of the nose tackle position in Washington. Taylor, however, had legitimately played well this summer and had earned a roster spot.

One reason Washington’s defense has struggled in a 3-4 scheme is the lack of consistent production at nose…