Washington Redskins: Grading every 2019 NFL Draft pick

Round 1, Pick 26: Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi State

The Washington Redskins surprised a lot of people by trading back into the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. They traded this year’s second-round pick (46 overall) and a 2020 second-round pick for the 26th overall pick in the first. With that pick, Washington selected pass rusher Montez Sweat from Mississippi State. Somehow, the Redskins struck gold twice in the first.

First off, that’s a great trade, they swapped their second-rounder for a first-rounder and only had to give up next year’s second as well. That’s a savvy move by Washington.

Now let’s talk about Sweat, who is easily a top-10 talent in the draft. However, a heart condition found at the combine caused him to slide. Washington’s doctors don’t believe it’s nearly as bad of a condition as initially thought, though. Due to that, the Redskins got a 6-6, 260-pound pass rusher that ran a 4.41-second 40-yard dash. That’s legitimately scary.

Sweat is now part of possibly the best young-front seven in the entire NFL. They at least have the most potential of any group in the league. Ryan Kerrigan is the veteran of the group and he’s good for 10-plus sacks a year. Then there’s Jonathan Allen and the newly-extended Matthew Ioannidis at defensive end. Both improved immensely last season and will only continue to improve.

Meanwhile, the interior is clogged up by Da’Ron Payne, who was an absolute stud last season with fellow youngster Tim Settle backing him up (and he’s a unit).

The interior linebackers are Reuben Foster and Mason Foster (no relation). Reuben Foster has had some off-field issues but everything’s cleared up now. He’s also got ridiculous potential and looks great when he’s playing. Mason Foster, meanwhile, is a very solid presence in the middle and, despite what some fans believe, he brings value to the defense.

Now add Sweat to that mix. Poor opposing quarterbacks. He’s got so much protection it will be impossible to double-team him. If it wasn’t for Haskins, this would’ve been the steal of the first round. Somehow, Washington managed both.

Final Grade: A+