Now that free agency is winding down, we can focus on the draft. This is the time for interviews and player analysis. For the Washington Redskins, it is a time to build a defense. However, they may have completed some parts of that with free agent signings. The draft may now produce the best player available.
In this, my second version of mocking the Redskins we will see how they look. Will they continue to go defense? On the other hand, will they go best available player? Do they fill a position of need?
Let us look at the Washington Redskins post free agency draft.
Round One – Pick 17
Zach Cunningham – LB, Vanderbilt 6’3” 234lbs
Cunningham has great inside abilities. He has tremendous ability to see the play and be the first to respond. Even more impressive than his tackling ability is his coverage skills. That being the case, he does not have to leave the field on passing downs. Cunningham can come in and work day one alongside newly signed LB Zach Brown. Additionally, Cunningham adds value to the Redskins special teams.
Original Pick – Jabrill Peppers – LB Michigan
[Sean]
Round Two – Pick 17 (49 overall)
Joe Mixon, RB Oklahoma 6’1” 226lbs
Yes, I know Mixon has had his off-field issues. However, you cannot deny his talent. He has an outstanding burst to go from level to level. In addition, he has the strength to bang it between the tackles. Not to mention he has the ability to break off large chunk plays. These can come between the tackles and around the outside. In all honesty he a legit 3-down back. Consequently, he fits right into the Washington Redskins offensive system.
Original Pick – Donnel Pumphrey – RB, San Diego State
Round Three – Pick 17 (81 overall)
Nate Gerry – S Nebraska 6’2” 218lbs
Gerry is a solid specimen at safety. That fact that he is so built allows him to play strong near the LOS. Yet, he still has the ability to operate in zone coverages. In addition to this, he has an innate ability to read receivers routes. This, combined with his tremendous ball skills gave him 13 career INTs at Nebraska. Gerry would eventually make a great combo with Su’a Cravens in the secondary for the Washington Redskins.
Original Pick – Davis Webb – QB, California
The Redskins are a team in need of youth on defense. They added some pieces in free agency. To add youth of this caliber is something Washington needs. There is no longer a general manager to be in charge. Bruce Allen needs a draft like the one above to solidify the future of the team. Possibly, maybe even his job.
The 2017 NFL Draft is April 27-29 in Philadelphia, PA. Whom would you like to see in Burgundy and Gold? Leave a comment below.
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