The Redskins, for the better part of five years, have finished with average .500 records, or just below that. By accident or design, the Redskins have not been able to ascend to the level of the elites they once were for 27 years. Coaching, management, and ownership are the easiest to point to when trying to find the cause. Players are in fact the ones playing, so to gain a better understanding, the on-field positions must be reviewed and addressed. Let’s take a look at the top five positional concerns that will be examined.
Wide Receiver
Coming in at number one, we have the wide receiver position. A bit of an unpopular opinion due to the abnormal QB situation going on, but a legitimate argument can be made. Two years ago, the three main receivers were Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson, and Jamison Crowder.
Since then, you would have to back track two more years to the end of the Santana Moss-Era. Who was the most talented wide receiver before that? That would be Gary Clark (1985-1992) and Art Monk (1980-1993).
This year the receivers average less than standard yards, with the number one receiver being Crowder. Last season, Crowder was injured and missed several games. None of the other receivers had the ability to generate a significant amount of yardage after the catch.
Meanwhile, the Antonio Brown sweepstakes is officially over. The Redskins would benefit heavily from drafting a reliever opening round despite being burned from the last first round receiver pick in Doctson.
A.J Brown, a potential draft candidate for the Redskins, would be a force to be reckoned with.
Quarterback
Yes, here we are. With Alex Smith’s career in question, the Redskins have a critical need at the quarterback position. There are multiple options. Maybe they could limp along this year with Colt McCoy as the starter (no pun intended) while building up the other positions. On the other hand, they can draft and start a rookie quarterback.
There are many teams who are currently willing to move on from their young quarterback. The Redskins could potentially put a trade package together towards the Cardinals’ Josh Rosen. The Redskins brought on Case Keenum for a year, which was a decent move.
While the 2020 quarterback draft class may be better than this year, last season has shown that the team would be wise to carry three quarterbacks. Where does that leave next year’s quarterback prospects? Thinking back, the Cardinals have shown that there is nothing wrong with drafting quarterbacks back-to-back years if the need be.
Outside Linebacker
The Redskins’ four main outside linebackers include Ryan Anderson, Ryan Kerrigan, Pernell McPhee, and Preston Smith. Ryan Kerrigan has made the Pro Bowl four times now, and has averaged 11.75 sacks over the length of his career. Preston Smith will likely leave during the free agency wars. Meanwhile, Pernell McPhee has been non-existent during his time with the Redskins. Lastly, Ryan Anderson can improve with more reps and experience. Ryan Kerrigan is 30-years-old and will be 31-years-old going into the season. Eventually, the Redskins will need some new, young talent on the weak side.
Offensive Line (Guard or Tackle)
There are no numbers needed here folks. It is easy to tell the Redskins O-line has about as many holes as a slice of Swiss cheese. Even the presence of Trent Williams and Morgan Moses is hampered by frequent injury. The Redskins would definitely need to upgrade if they hope to have a thriving quarterback.
Safety
Though many mock drafts have the Redskins taking a QB, there are a handful having them taking a safety. Nasir Adderley, Johnathan Abram, and Juan Thornhill would all be lovely draft candidates. The addition of Landon Collins certainly helps out the position tremendously. Why not have another young talent to groom alongside Collins? The Redskins typically have made a lot of moves on defense. Commendable, but, in the ever evolving game of football, if a team can not score, they will not win.
