Washington Redskins Draft: Possible safeties

For the last few seasons, the Washington Redskins have sported a less-than-impressive secondary. In 2014, the Redskins allowed a league worst 35 touchdowns. On top of that, Washington was only able to grab 7 interceptions on the year. The team must take action and improve their secondary. There’s a good chance that the 2015 Washington Redskins draft class will include a safety, so I decided to list a few of the possibilities.

Landon Collins | Alabama

Landon Collins would be an instant upgrade for the Redskins secondary. The Alabama safety would provide Washington with a player that has the potential to be a defensive force for years to come. He led the Crimson Tide in tackles (87) and interceptions (3) in 2014. Collins is an explosive, versatile safety that is always around the ball.

If the Redskins are interested in drafting Collins, they will have to take him with their 1st round draft pick — 5th overall.

Derron Smith | Fresno State

If the Redskins opt to address their offensive line problems with their 1st round draft pick, Derron Smith could be a player that makes sense for them with one of their later picks. He is a ball hawking safety that is capable of creating turnovers for the defense. Smith was only able to corral 1 interception in 2014, but grabbed 7 in 2013 and 6 in 2012.

Smith has shown the ability to play near the line of scrimmage, too. Being able to play in the box during run situations is key. Smith is a talented player that has room to grow. Selecting Smith at the top of the 2nd round might be a reach, but he might not be available when Washington selects in round 3.

Anthony Harris | Virginia 

Anthony Harris is a tackling machine. In 2014, Harris was accountable for 109 tackles for Virginia. That kind of tackling ability will certainly come in handy in the run-game. Harris was also able to come away with 2 interceptions and 1 sack on the season.

As of now, Harris is slotted to go around the same time as Derron Smith (between rounds 2-3).

Gerod Holliman | Louisville

Out of all of the players I listed, I find Gerod Holliman to be the most intriguing. His monster 2014 season is the reason. With 14 interceptions, Holliman led the nation in picks. With that being said, Holliman’s tackling abilities are lacking. He was only able to muster up 37 tackles last season, which is less-than-impressive.

His 14 interceptions will definitely help his draft stock, but Holliman will have to vastly improve his skills as a tackler to succeed at the NFL level. It’s also worth noting that Holliman had 0 interceptions in the two seasons prior to 2014. The lack of proven consistency will likely be an issue. Improved tackling and a good showing at the combine will go a long way for Holliman’s draft stock.

In my opinion, Landon Collins is the only safety out of the group that is worthy of being selected in the 1st round. Smith, Harris, and Holliman are all 2nd and 3rd round prospects in my opinion. If Washington opts for an offensive lineman in round 1, it would be nice to see them add a couple of safeties between rounds 2-4.