Washington Redskins draft should focus on OL
By Andrew Long
For the first time since the massive RG3 trade in 2012, the Washington Redskins draft will have a first-round pick. After finishing the season with a 4-12 record, Washington holds the 5th overall pick in this year’s NFL draft. Possessing a top 10 pick ensures that a number of high profile players will be available when the Redskins make their selection. If the coaching staff and management truly wants to improve the franchise, they won’t make the splashy pick; they’ll make the safe pick. The Washington Redskins need to draft smart and build a good foundation.
In my opinion, a safe pick for Washington would be an offensive lineman or a pass-rusher. Brandon Scherff, Shane Ray, Randy Gregory and Cedric Ogbuehi all figure to be in play for the Redskins. Gregory and Ray are both capable of making instant impacts on the defensive side of the ball, and that’s something that the team desperately needs. With that being said, I believe that Washington should target an offensive lineman with their first round pick.
As of now, Brandon Scherff and Cedric Ogbuehi are considered to be the top offensive tackles in the draft. Players like La’el Collins, Ronnie Stanley, Andrus Peat, and Ereck Flowers should be on their radar, too.
By adding some talent upfront, the Redskins will be able to accomplish a number of different things. Having a strong, athletic line will allow Washington to control the clock and tempo of games, something that they weren’t able to do in 2014. By controlling the clock with a consistent running attack, the Redskins will help their defense by keeping them well rested and off of the field.
Washington’s lackluster run-game played a major role in their disappointing season. Without a steady run-game, the offense never found a rhythm in 2014. The lack of a running attack led to botched play-actions and long 3rd down situations. Let me be clear — I am in no way pinning the horrendous season completely on the offensive line; this team has way too many holes for that. But the offensive line certainly did have a hand in the situation and upgrading the unit would go along way in the rebuilding process.
The starting offensive line didn’t only falter in the run-game, though. They also underperformed in pass-protection. The Washington O-line allowed 58 sacks this season; only Jacksonville allowed their QBs to be sacked more. It’s also worth noting that the Redskins allowed their quarterbacks to be hit 112 times, that’s good for 3rd most in the league. That kind of protection simply won’t cut it, especially when your quarterback is inexperienced.
It’s incredibly difficult for a quarterback, young or old, to make the correct reads and feel comfortable in a collapsing pocket. By adding a reliable tackle across from Trent Williams, the Redskins will supply their starting quarterback with a better chance to succeed in the passing game.
Adding a couple of young, talented offensive linemen to their roster is essential. If Washington drafts smart, things will turn around sooner rather than later.