SBNation.com User Blog: dbtimsah

Not Another Mock Draft...

dbtimsah — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:33:24 -0000

With the 2013 NFL Draft just days away, I still refuse to attempt a mock draft for my beloved Redskins. Sure, I have reviewed many great options for Safety’s, Cornerbacks, OT’s, blah blah blah…and even contemplated doing my own Mock Draft. However, several thoughts stopped me this year. ..

First, looking back at Shanahan’s draft style, there’s really no mocking it aside from maybe the first pick (usually 1st Rd). How many media moguls or fans had the Redskins choosing an Alfred Morris last year? No one! Add the shocker pick of Kirk Cousins (which unlike many, I loved it from the beginning). There are too many details that fans don’t have at our fingertips. For example, I cannot find much information on weather key players were Team Captains or not. Also, most off-the-field/work ethic issues are only published if it hit media attention (or jail time). Character can be difficult to gauge from afar. We do know that Shanahan will select the following players;

Good Character
Team Captains
Fits Team System
Team Players

Personally, I totally believe in this philosophy. Why take a risk in drafting a character issue that leads to team distractions (Honeybadger? – No Thanks). Let Dallas or Philly risk a pick on these guys and we can sit by and grin as they are fined, suspended, and going to jail in a few years.

Second, in the past I (along with many fans) needed the offseason championship to fill a winning-less void (which previously rested a pumping heart). Finally, I have complete faith in the current coaching and management team. I feel good about leaving the real work for the professionals. We don’t have to make up for miss-management and bad coaching in Washington anymore! Enjoy it! RELAX!

Third, I simply want to devote more time in researching our actual picks. So, as the REAL picks come – I will be then doing my research and possibly write a follow-up article about my thoughts. Besides, it sucks to know great talent that your team (for many reasons) did not draft. For example, I really wanted Mohammad Sanu in the middle rounds of last year’s draft. And, of course he scores the Bengal’s first play against my Skins. However, each team only gets so many picks and has to use them wisely.

In conclusion, here’s what I expect overall from the Washington Redskins 2013 draft.

A no-named player in the 4th or 5th Round (leaves you scratching your head - until we do our research anyway.
A RB in the later rounds 6th or 7th Round most likely since it’s not a major need.
A Shocker Pick (either an option QB in the later rounds or a WR – 2nd or 3rd Round). Many are really high on Cousins now, but he doesn’t fit the overall offensive scheme and will be great trade bait next offseason. We need more options at WR for competition and push Hankerson to step up or warm up another team’s bench.
2 or 3 DB’s only. Some are projecting the Redskins getting 5+ DB’s and that’s highly unlikely. Doing that would negate positions such as LB, which we saw what happened with Orapko injured. You must grab the best player available as much as possible.

See you on the flip side of the draft…HTTR!!

Good Character
Team Captains
Fits Team System
Team Players

In conclusion, here’s what I expect overall from the Washington Redskins 2013 draft.

A no-named player in the 4th or 5th Round (leaves you scratching your head - until we do our research anyway.
A RB in the later rounds 6th or 7th Round most likely since it’s not a major need.
A Shocker Pick (either an option QB in the later rounds or a WR – 2nd or 3rd Round). Many are really high on Cousins now, but he doesn’t fit the overall offensive scheme and will be great trade bait next offseason. We need more options at WR for competition and push Hankerson to step up or warm up another team’s bench.
2 or 3 DB’s only. Some are projecting the Redskins getting 5+ DB’s and that’s highly unlikely. Doing that would negate positions such as LB, which we saw what happened with Orapko injured. You must grab the best player available as much as possible.

See you on the flip side of the draft…HTTR!!

Poll

Will the Redskins shock fans with another QB drafted in the 2013 NFL Draft?

Yes

10 votes

No

14 votes

Hell No!

15 votes

39 votes | Poll has closed

2013 Redskins Expectations - Defense

dbtimsah — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 20:32:44 -0000

With the off-season underway for the NFC East Champions Washington Redskins, many have blogged about the defensive issues that need to be addressed. After reviewing the offensive side of the ball (see 2013 Redskins Expectations – Offense), let’s take a good look at my expectations for the Redskins defensive side of the ball.

Secondary Changes: No surprise here that the Redskins secondary needs some TLC. However, after reading many DB-heavy mock drafts for the Skins, I would caution fans to not expect that on draft day. Injuries plagued much of our defense in 2012, including the DB’s.

Let us take an inventory of the additions to the secondary through last year:

Brandon Meriweather – FS (Free Agent)
Tanard Jackson – FS (Free Agent)
Madieu Williams – S (Free Agent)
Cedric Griffin – CB (Free Agent)
Jordan Pugh – SS (Waiver Wire)
Richard Crawford – CB (Draft)
Jordan Bernstine – S (Draft)
Jerome Murphy – CB (Waiver Wire)
Chase Minnifield – DB (Draft)
Buddy Jackson – CB (Practice Squad)
Korey Lindsey – DB (Practice Squad)
Domonique Johnson – DB (Waiver Wire)

That’s 12 DB’s added to the Redskins roster since last year! Now, I’m not saying any of these will be heading to the Pro Bowl in 2013. I don’t expect D. Hall to be back; unless it’s for a substantial savings (contract re-negotiation). M. Williams was a liability in coverage (if we can classify it that). However, there is some talent here to work with, especially if some come back from injuries. I fully expect Brandon Meriweather to be the starting FS for Washington. Also, I enjoyed Cedric Griffins’ hard style of play (which has lacked in our secondary), minus the penalties.

A few surprise up-and-comers could easily be Jerome Murphy, Richard Crawford, Jordan Pugh, and Chase Minnifield. With that said, I would expect the Redskins to add bulk in this secondary to get more physical. However, I don’t see more than two DB’s being selected via the draft. Expect the Redskins to find at least 1 heralded DB in Free Agency or trade (i.e. Leodis McKelvin, Rodgers-Cromartie, etc.) to solidify this group and then add a few more in the draft.

I love the idea of getting a guy like DJ Swearinger (SC, 6’1", 210 lbs.) for SS. He could compete with M. Williams and T. Jackson immediately (most likely one of them would be cut, which is fine with me). Either Xavier Rhodes or Terry Hawthorne would be nice for competition at CB.

Therefore, here’s my projected starting secondary next year:

CB1 – Leodis McKelvin/ or other FA

CB2 – Josh Wilson

CB3 – Cedric Griffin / R. Crawford or Rookie (X. Rhodes / T. Hawthorne) – based on competition/injuries

SS – DJ Swearinger (or other Rookie)

FS – B. Meriweather

Pass-Rusher: I blogged last off-season that the Redskins needed more depth for OLB, in case of injury to Orapko or Kerrigan (see article here http://www.hogshaven.com/2012/4/7/2932279/redskin-draft-needs-after-qb). Most fans mocked that idea. Must hurt to be wrong after the defense suffered from lack of pass rush all season. This added more pressure on our lack-luster and injured secondary. Expect the Redskins to seek another pass rusher from trades, FA and/or the draft. Look at Aldon Smith in S.F. for an example of the type of role-player we need for passing situations. The addition may not be a typical 3-4 OLB.

· D-Line: I don’t expect many changes on the defensive line this off-season. However, I’m not sure about A. Carriker return next year after his injury. J. Jenkins seemed to improve throughout the season, but never lived up to the hype from last year’s pre-season showing. I expect limited changes here unless a solid starter comes available in the draft at NT. I would contemplate moving B. Cofield to DE if we had a bigger NT (H. Ngata like player), but I don’t see that happening this off-season.

Thanks for reading, please let me know your thoughts in the comments section. HTTR!

Let us take an inventory of the additions to the secondary through last year:

Brandon Meriweather – FS (Free Agent)
Tanard Jackson – FS (Free Agent)
Madieu Williams – S (Free Agent)
Cedric Griffin – CB (Free Agent)
Jordan Pugh – SS (Waiver Wire)
Richard Crawford – CB (Draft)
Jordan Bernstine – S (Draft)
Jerome Murphy – CB (Waiver Wire)
Chase Minnifield – DB (Draft)
Buddy Jackson – CB (Practice Squad)
Korey Lindsey – DB (Practice Squad)
Domonique Johnson – DB (Waiver Wire)

Therefore, here’s my projected starting secondary next year:

CB1 – Leodis McKelvin/ or other FA

CB2 – Josh Wilson

CB3 – Cedric Griffin / R. Crawford or Rookie (X. Rhodes / T. Hawthorne) – based on competition/injuries

SS – DJ Swearinger (or other Rookie)

FS – B. Meriweather

Thanks for reading, please let me know your thoughts in the comments section. HTTR!

Poll

Should the Washington Redskins draft 3 or more DB's in this years draft?

No, don't need any DB's

1 votes

No, 1 or 2 is good

80 votes

Yes, need at least 3

32 votes

Yes, 5 would be good

0 votes

113 votes | Poll has closed

2013 Redskins Expectations - Offense

dbtimsah — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 20:20:28 -0000

What an exciting year for Redskins fans, especially if you like roller-coasters! It is still hard to believe that our beloved team won the NFC East. With that in mind, we all know this team is a few play-makers away from a Super Bowl. Even if we had beaten Seattle, with RGIII injured – we would not have gotten far in the playoffs.

For 2013, let’s look at a few expectations and some off-season adjustments that I expect on the offensive side of the ball.

· NFL Rushing Leader: I fully expect RB Roy Helu to come back with a vengeance next season. Expect a heavy dose of Morris and Helu in 2013. This will make it more difficult for defenses to match-up with our offense and Helu has the breakaway speed to score from anywhere on the field. He is more effective on the RB screen too. Morris may not have as many yards next season because of this. However, with this Thunder & Lightning RB combination and RGIII’s read-option ability, I fully expect the Redskins to easily lead the NFL in rushing next season. Royster may not be back.

· OL Changes: It’s no surprise that right-tackle is on the shopping list. Some of the successful drives seemed to stall this year because of some poor blocking on the right side. This will most likely have to be addressed in Free Agency, since the Skins don’t have a 1st round pick. FA’s Branden Albert (KC) or Andre Smith (CIN) could be options. Another long shot is promoting Tom Compton or Adam Gettis. A few draft pick names tossed around have been Terron Armstead and Matt Stankiewitch. Either way, I expect a new FA or some reshuffling of the OL this off-season.

TE Changes: With the exception of Logan Paulsen, the Redskins TE productivity for 2012 was lack-luster to say the least. I fully expect changes at this position, including the possibility of letting Fred Davis walk this off-season. Paulsen could be the 2013 starter. Neither Cooley nor Niles Paul seems to fit this offense anymore. Paul could make the roster as special-teamer and depth. The team needs more toughness and blocking ability to run this offense to its full potential. Expect the Redskins to acquire more talent in FA or the draft to address this position. I would love to draft a guy like Zach Line (RB – SMU) to convert him into an H-Back/FB/TE position for this offense. He would be a gem for short yardage and goal line plays.

· WR/KR Changes: I do not expect a ton of changes at the WR position. However, I would love to see Dwayne Bowe sign with Washington. This would give us another tough outside receiver threat. With Garcon injured, the offense was largely ineffective. Another deep option with toughness would be nice. With the limited cap space this off-season; expect the Skins to only make minor changes here, including giving Dezmon Briscoe and L. Hankerson every opportunity to start next season. I do not expect Brandon Banks to be back in 2013, period. He has underperformed on kick returns and on offense. I highly anticipate Crawford and A. Robinson to fill-in on special teams. A late draft pick could also help provide depth here (WR or DB).

· QB Changes: K. Cousins had some nice games to salvage a few wins this season for the NFC East Champions. However, he does not fit the long-term vision of this offense. If other NFL teams show interest in trading a 3nd round pick (or higher) for him, expect the Redskins to bite. This offense needs a read-option back-up QB like Trent Steelman (Army QB/WR) to run this effectively. Such a player would be great on fakes and PA with him and RGIII on the field together. Expect the Redskins to start looking for the next back-up for RGIII, one that fit’s this offense. With that said, I also feel that 2013 will bring more plays that will focus on protecting RGIII from injury. For example, more fake bootlegs and quick pass roll-outs or screens. This will protect our future Hall of Fame quarterback.

Please reply with your thoughts and expectations for the Redskins 2013 offense. HTTR!

For 2013, let’s look at a few expectations and some off-season adjustments that I expect on the offensive side of the ball.

Please reply with your thoughts and expectations for the Redskins 2013 offense. HTTR!

Offensive Plays Redskins Must Add Now!

dbtimsah — Sat, 08 Dec 2012 16:33:17 -0000

While the Redskins offense is very dynamic and is currently keeping defenses off balance they will need to continue to add new plays to fool defenses. This is vital to continue during the current playoff push, especially against teams such as the Ravens.

Here are some new plays that could easily be added to the Redskins playbook;

1.Flea Flicker: Imagine the defense closing on Morris after a toss or handoff. Suddenly, Morris tosses back to RGIII for a deep pass. Such a play would even open up the possibility of tossing back to RGIII for a sweep the opposite direction (Morris starts right, RGIII sweeps left).

2.Shovel Pass: RGIII drops back to pass, the defensive ends are steaming ahead and drooling for a sack. RGIII shovels to Morris (or Royster) as he runs through the heart of the defense. This would help force defenses to cover the middle of the field and open deeper passing. Great option on 3rd and long too.

3.WR Reverse: I’m surprised the Redskins have not done many reverses lately. I would love to see some trick plays also. One trick play, I call a "Delay Reverse"; RGIII could fake a roll-out or run to one side, WR fakes a block or chips, then runs behind RGIII for the late toss and crosses the field. Could even pass it hear if the WR can throw.

4.TE/FB Screen: The WR screens are great most of the time; however I would like to see more TE or FB screens. This would get more strength out on the sideline and run over some DB’s. In addition, I could envision a TE screen fake – Throw to Cooley on right, he passes back to a wide open RGIII for a run left or deep pass.

5.FB Plays: I would like to see D. Young get more carries in this offense, esp. against the Ravens. I was glad to see him used on short yardage in the Giants game. That physical style is what the Redskins have lacked in recent (losing) seasons. Young can also catch in the flat and challenge those DB’s on the edge. The Redskins should get more creative with runs to D. Young. This will limit the defenses ability to key on Morris and RGIII.

If the Redskins can continue to add more options for RGIII, this will keep defenses guessing on every play. I feel adding such plays as above; will keep the Redskins in the playoff hunt this season.

Please let me know your thoughts or new play ideas! HTTR!

Here are some new plays that could easily be added to the Redskins playbook;

If the Redskins can continue to add more options for RGIII, this will keep defenses guessing on every play. I feel adding such plays as above; will keep the Redskins in the playoff hunt this season.

Please let me know your thoughts or new play ideas! HTTR!

Thoughts on the Redskins 2012 Draft

dbtimsah — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 23:08:22 -0000

Although there were some head scratchers on draft day for the Washington Redskins – I fully support Shanahan and Allen. Entering rounds 3 – 7, even the so called experts cannot truly predict the spot rookies should be drafted or were value is obtained. Hell, the vast majority of names in those later rounds are unknown players to most of us.

Another point, the Redskins are not taking chances on poor character rookies (or poor Wonderlick scores like Claiborne…a "4?" haha). In addition, we are not trying to build some hyped up "Dream Team" like the Eagles. They continue to stack up these highly profiled players to make this dream team a reality. However, I believe in building around true team players. That means players that don’t have inflated egos! Shanahan believes in getting better by increasing competition as well.

This draft focused on 3 primary areas of concern for the Redskins:

1) Quarterback – In selecting RGIII and Kirk Cousins, Shanahan declared war on the QB position in Washington. I personally love it! He’s saying that no longer will this position hold the Redskins hostage and out of the playoffs. It’s a bold move but one I feel is needed for depth. Beck is out the door and Rex is next! Congratulations Washington for the QB make-over!

2) Offensive Linemen – The Redskins also nabbed 3 linemen in this draft. While some, i.e. LeRibeus were unknown; I still feel they are picking the best player on "their" board (at least by position). Doesn’t mean some of these players are high on Mayock’s’ board. Doesn’t mean these players could play for the Giants or Cowboys because the Skins us a zone-blocking scheme that requires unique talent. Nearly all Redskin fans (including myself) have been demanding O-line help in this draft. Most fans would have been happy with 2; Shanahan grabbed 3 total this weekend. Needed depth and competition.

3) Special Teams – Selections of LB K. Robinson and two (7th round) DB’s (Crawford & Berstine) add much needed defensive depth and talent for special teams. Crawford gives the Redskins a new option as a Kick Returner and I expect him to compete in the offseason (with B. Banks, A. Robinson). In addition, RB A. Morris could add depth as a blocker and on ST defense. Morris could also be depth for the FB position or a solid goal line tailback.

It’s a good sign in the nation’s capital when management is finding small-town players that are not on the high-profile list. In the past, poor management was reacting like the Eagles and Cowboys – selecting players everyone else claims is the best players available. The Patriots, Steelers and Ravens have been known for finding solid smaller school players. The Redskins picked 2 players from SMU and 1 from FAU. Also, 2 players from Iowa, which shows that the Redskins have identified certain colleges that fit what they are looking for (last year was a Nebraska heavy draft). In my humble opinion, The Washington Redskins are headed in the right direction.

HTTR!!

This draft focused on 3 primary areas of concern for the Redskins:

HTTR!!

Redskin Draft Needs after QB...

dbtimsah — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 14:18:11 -0000

The Redskins still have a few question marked positions after QB Robert Griffin III is selecting #2 overall in the NFL Draft. I have been reviewing many of the mock drafts being posted. However, I see a few things missing from what I would consider a great draft for the Skins.

First, most of them lack the selection of a ILB. With the uncertainty of Fletcher coming back and no real depth at that position - it could be one of the highest priorities heading into day 2.

Secondly, I have seen selections for OC which doesn't make much since unless they are anticipating them playing OG also. Montgomery has been resigned already and RT should be the other priority for the draft.

Third, the Skins failed attempt to sign FA WR Eddie Royal, shows they want a true kick-return threat. Normally, a taller WR would be my choice in the draft, however any WR or DB that has kick-return ability should rise on the Redskins board. Brandon Banks is only a retuner and a very small player. If Joe Adams falls, he would be a great addition for return duties to compete with Banks and Aldrick Robinson.

In addition, I still feel if a solid OLB with pass-rush ability should fall - we would need to consider them. What if Orapko or Kerrigan go down with injuries? Who's their back-ups (I can't name them, which scares me)? It seems the Redskins are trying to address most of the DB's in Free Agency. This makes since, because there's not much depth in this draft. If a solid DB like Casey Hayward falls, it would be a steal.

Please let me know your thoughts!

First, most of them lack the selection of a ILB. With the uncertainty of Fletcher coming back and no real depth at that position - it could be one of the highest priorities heading into day 2.

Please let me know your thoughts!

WR’s the Redskins Should Consider in 2012 Draft

dbtimsah — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 19:19:30 -0000

Consider the fact that the Washington Redskins wide receivers have lacked yards after the catch (YAC) and overall play-making ability last year. Therefore, in determining the WR’s who the skins should avoid in the draft – let’s remove a few names that will not solve the YAC issue for the skins:

· Alshon Jeffrey – I know he is a beast of a WR which makes him a massive target. However, he does not create much after the catch and in terms of YAC.

· Jeff Fuller – Decent WR that can catch and make average plays. Reminds me a little of Devin Thomas (not in a good way either). Seldom does much after the catch.

· Nick Toon – Not a lot of stats or highlights for this guy. Doesn’t seem to be the true play-maker that the Redskins need. His projected 40 time is 4.60, which could make it difficult for him to excel at the next level.

· B.J. Cunningham – Projected 40 time is 4.62 and only 6’1" tall. Not much statistics to consider coming out of Michigan State.

· Alshon Jeffrey – I know he is a beast of a WR which makes him a massive target. However, he does not create much after the catch and in terms of YAC.

· Jeff Fuller – Decent WR that can catch and make average plays. Reminds me a little of Devin Thomas (not in a good way either). Seldom does much after the catch.

· B.J. Cunningham – Projected 40 time is 4.62 and only 6’1" tall. Not much statistics to consider coming out of Michigan State.

In addition, I don’t see the Redskins taking any WR that is less than 6’0" tall, at least in the higher rounds. The Hankerson pick last year shows the team is set on bigger targets for the future. Just look at the majority of NY Giant WR’s (Victor Cruz was an undrafted FA), which gives E. Manning larger windows. That’s what will help any future Redskin QB. Therefore, based on height concerns, remove the following players:

· Kendall Wright

· Ryan Broyles (tough decision as I’m an OU fan in Oklahoma!)

· T.Y Hilton

· Joe Adams

· Tim Benford

· Eric Page

· Marquis Maze

· Jarius Wright

· Patrick Edwards

· Devon Wylie

· T.J. Graham

· Travis Benjamin

· Bert Reed

That still leaves a lot of talented WR’s for the Redskins to consider. However, I’m betting that the Redskins will do 1 of 2 things:

1) Trade up for RG3 (or)

2) Trade down for more picks

With this in mind, the odds of Blackmon or Michael Floyd are not likely. That leaves the following possibilities for the Redskins (depending on what round). Of course, some of these prospects will be late round or even undrafted Free Agents.

· Mohamed Sanu

· Dwight Jones

· Rueben Randle

· Marvin McNutt

· Marvin Jones

· Tommy Streeter

· Brian Quick

· Jermaine Kearse

· Stephen Hill

· Jordan White

· Jerrett Boykin

· Juron Criner

· Chris Givens

· Jordan White

· Greg Childs

· A.J. Jenkins

· DeVier Posey

· Chris Owusu

· Rishard Matthews

· Lance Lewis

· Junior Hemingway

· Matt Austin

· Darius Hanks

· Derek Moye

· Da’Jon McKnight

· Gerrell Robinson

· LaQuinton Evans

I really like Sanu if he’s available for the Redskins. Juron Criner impressed me in the Senior Bowl and could be a late round addition. Many of these guys will bring needed height and play-making ability.

Please add comments on who you feel the Redskins should select.

Rocky McIntosh to Rams?

dbtimsah — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 22:47:59 -0000

I'm a little surprised that LB Rocky McIntosh has not been mentioned more in trade talks. He has not worked out well for the Redskins new 3-4 style of defense, but he's still a solid player. I feel he could be trade-bait for the Rams to include in leverage to move up for the #2 pick of the NFL Draft. In addition, Chris Cooley could be tossed in to minimize the damage of giving too many picks away this year.

Then, we nab RG3 number 2 overall and hopefully still have our 3 Round pick this year to draft a WR, OL, or TE (to replace Cooley depth).

Free Agents:

Redskins should really look at adding WR's Dwayne Bowe and Steve Johnson this offseason. Along with retaining TE Fred Davis and developing WR Lenoard Hankerson - the skins would have some real threats to attack a defense.

Then, we nab RG3 number 2 overall and hopefully still have our 3 Round pick this year to draft a WR, OL, or TE (to replace Cooley depth).

Free Agents:

QB Prospect that no one is talking about…

dbtimsah — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 04:16:59 -0000

Peyton Manning and RG3 atop the discussion for the future quarterback spot of the Washington Redskins. [Please Shannahan – don’t bother with the Manning sweepstakes (I beg you)! Peyton does not fit this style of offense and would be a highly paid tackling dummy (with a neck issue)]. Another QB in discussion is Ryan Tannehill. He is athletic but not much of a true QB (ex-WR). Just look at his INT to TD ratio - he’s a mobile Rex Grossman in the making (no thanks!). I wanted to throw in another name no one is talking about. Now, you might want to hold your breath…

· Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

Yes, I said it! This guy impressed me in the Senior Bowl and I’ve seen highlights on him and am growing more interested. Lack of height and not taking many snaps from center are the primary issues with this guy. However, here are some key attributes I see in Moore that could make him a solid future QB for the Redskins.

· Winner (set many collegiate records)

· Leader/Confidence

· Amazing Stats (Yards, TD – INT ratio, & QB rating are off the charts)

· Fast Decision-Maker

· Fast Release (gets rid of the football - opposite of J. Campbell, J. Beck, etc.)

· Anticipates (throws ball where WR’s are going)

· Decent Mobility (can buy time in the pocket)

He would need some time to develop on his footwork, but I love Moore’s potential. This guy may quickly work up draft boards and land in the 3rd or 4th round just because of his potential and stats. More interesting is his drive and confidence that is almost (Tom) Brady-like. Then, he has the baby-face of an Eli Manning.

I still believe the franchise should seek other options (FA, or RG3, NOT P.Manning, etc.) for an immediate solution. The Redskins should heavily consider Kellen Moore as Mid-to-Late round option to develop into a future starter.

Please leave your comments – but first watch some highlights on Kellen Moore (you just might become a believer!)

Poll

Should the Redskins consider Kellen Moore as Mid-to-Late round solution?

Yes - Absolutely

210 votes

Yes - Mid Rounds

191 votes

Yes - Late Rounds

256 votes

No Thanks

74 votes

No Way - waste of a draft pick

110 votes

841 votes | Poll has closed

Washington Redskins select OG DeCastro?

dbtimsah — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 03:03:34 -0000

There is tons of talk regarding who the Washington Redskins should take with the 6th overall pick of the 2012 NFL draft. Most mock draft boards have the skins taking QB Robert Griffin III (RG3), while still most admit he won’t be available at that spot anyway.

Personally, I’m not completely sold that RG3 is the answer for the skins. Every offseason the desperation for a game-changing QB adds to the hyped-up and inflated expectations. I don’t foresee Mike Shanahan reaching for any expensive top 4 pick, even to land RG3. The top tier quarterbacks will be taken, most likely Blackmon will be gone too. Some are now predicting the skins to select a DB with the top pick. However, Shanahan has already mentioned that this offseason the offense was the primary concern. They will of course still address some defensive areas (ILB more demanding with Flechers age) but none that calls for a top pick. With this in mind, here are my thoughts on a winning 2012 draft strategy for the Washington Redskins.

1) Redskins select OG David DeCastro in 1st round, the top offensive guard in the NFL draft. It’s even possible the skins could trade down to stay within the top 12 to still land DeCastro and add more picks. Sound familiar? Last year Shanahan gained much praise for doing exactly this and still landed a pro-bowl LB in Ryan Kerrigan. Here’s some insight into DeCastro from SB Nation;

"Stanford David DeCastro could be the first interior lineman taken. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound guard is considered the seventh best overall prospect by Mocking the Draft and he was the No. 9 pick in the latest SB Nation Mock Draft…It's not hard to find things to like about DeCastro. For starters, he was one of the anchors on an offensive line that allowed quarterback Andrew Luck to be sacked just 11 times in 13 games this year. He's considered a top prospect with few, if any, glaring flaws in his game." From http://www.sbnation.com/2011-nfl-draft/2012/1/3/2679995/david-decastro-2012-nfl-draft

2) With one guard spot solid for years to come, the skins should look at addressing the QB position by selecting Ryan Tannehill with the next pick (2nd round). Considered the 3rd top QB in this draft class, and one the skins should not have to reach for. Also, while RG3 may have great upside – he also has BUST written all over him. Tannehill has the athleticism to make plays with his feet and can get the ball down field, perfect for a west coast style offense. Just read what one article says about Tannehill;

"Tannehill has displayed much better pocket sense. Combined with his foot quickness and athleticism, he moves efficiently to avoid pressure and can re-set, either in the pocket or outside, with accurate throws. He does an excellent job of reading defenses. When he finds open receivers, Tannehill gets rid of the ball quickly and is usually on target. He is more poised than before, and doesn't panic as plays breakdown. Also, he doesn't throw the ball up for grabs to avoid sacks.

Tannehill has good arm strength and does a good job of throwing the ball where only the receiver can make a play. For a player who was viewed as a likely fourth-round pick entering the 2011 season, we have heard scouts talk about him being a high second-round pick now." From: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/feed/2011-10/nfl-mock-draft/story/aggies-ryan-tannehill-making-most-of-senior-season

3) If they picked up another 2nd by trading down from #6, they should draft OC Peter Konz. If they trade down early and get DeCastro, They may have to reach up into the late 1st round or top 2nd round to nab Konz, but he’s worth it. Here are some comments on how dominate of a center this guy would be for the Redskins:

"Konz has great size for a center and uses all of his 315 pounds to his advantage. Whether he is in pass protection, making calls along the line, or bum-rushing defensive linemen as a run blocker, there aren't many holes in his game."

"As far as his technique, he does an excellent job of finding any blitzing linebackers, releasing from a double-team and sliding into position to make a block. His run blocking is great and if need be, he could fill-in at guard for most NFL teams. Konz does well to find the middle linebacker on every play and very rarely is Wisconsin's line caught off guard. He is able to quickly create running lanes up the middle by exploding into defenders and knocking them off their pursuit angles."

From: http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/profile_display.cfm?prospect_id=2906

4) Another player the skins should target in the 3rd round (if available) is Tight End Coby Fleener from Stanford. A guy that can stretch the field and score TD’s should be high on the skins list. Just consider Chris Cooley’s season-ending injury in 2011 and Fred Davis’ drug charge and pending free-agency. Here’s one brief article on Fleener;

"Fleener caught 34 passes for Stanford, actually averaging 19.6 yards per catch to go along with the 10 TDs. Mocking the Draft calls Fleener "the latest in the growing number of big, lanky receiving tight ends. He's an extremely proficient vertical passing threat."" From: http://newyork.sbnation.com/new-york-giants/2012/1/17/2713159/2012-nfl-mock-draft-new-york-giants-prospect-profiles-coby-fleener

5) Beyond this the Redskins should target an ILB, CB and WR the remainder of the draft. I would also suspect the skins to sign at least 1 WR in free-agency, such as Saints’ Marques Colston. Combined with a healthy Leonard Hankerson, this could be a dangerous duo. I would suspect the skins to select one WR from rounds 4 – 7. Some possible noteworthy names would be Ryan Broyles for OU, Chris Givens from Wake Forest, or Marvin McNutt from Iowa. All three of these can make plays on the ball and after the catch, which is what the Redskins need most at the WR position.

With this draft strategy, they may not be the sexy picks. Just remember what made the Redskins dominate in the 1980’s? Were the Hogs sexy picks? No, but tough offensive and defensive linemen are exactly what it takes to win in the NFL. With two top-tier offensive interior linemen, the Redskins offensive line would now be solidified for 10 years (along with T. Williams at LT).

Seems like every year that a few injuries occur on the skins O-line, the season quickly flushes down the toilet. With added depth on the line, this immediately buys the QB time in the pocket and for WR’s time to get open. It also helps establish a consistent running game. It’s time this team gets back to solid and smart offensive football, and that always starts up front. As a Redskins fan, I would be proud to add these pair of future Hogs in DeCastro and Konz to the team. Landing a solid QB and other possible rookies like Fleener would be icing on the cake. Hail to the Redskins!

Poll

What's your thoughts of this draft strategy if the Redskins could land 2 potential starters on the OL and a developmental QB in the 2012 NFL Draft?

No Thanks - Trade up for Top QB

191 votes

Awesome Strategy - I'm in Hog Heaven

602 votes

No Thanks - Need a Top WR

48 votes

No Thanks - Need a Top DB

24 votes

865 votes | Poll has closed