Offseason question: Who starts opposite Ryan Kerrigan, Preston Smith or Trent Murphy?

[MTK]

Despite spending a second-round pick on Stanford pass rusher Trent Murphy last year, the Washington Redskins deemed outside linebacker a position of need this past spring and used another second-round selection to acquire Mississippi State’s Preston Smith.

Offseason question: Who starts opposite Ryan Kerrigan, Preston Smith or Trent Murphy? - The Washington Post

[30gut]

Trent Murphy should start opposite Kerrigan and Preston Smith should get his chances as rotational player and situational pass rusher

[sevier2]

I'm surprised at how often this question is asked when it seems like such an obvious answer.

We all know Murphy will start opposite Kerrigan week 1. He's the incumbent starter and showed flashes last year he could take the job. Smith will get plenty of opportunities throughout games. As SOON as Smith makes enough plays he'll be the starter. The only question is when/if he'll make those plays.

Of course, Down and Distance will influence there playing time as well.

[Irrefutable]

Smith will have the same role as Murphy did last year

[That Guy]

best player wins? I assume murphy is ahead right now just based on NFL experience and not crapping the bed. he's not a speed rush guy though.