The last time the Redskins had the number six pick in the draft, they picked safety LaRon Landry in 2007. Well, the time has come again to figure out what to do with the 6th overall pick but, that alone will not make for a winning record next season. Many predict the Redskins to draft a quarterback with the 6th overall pick but, I do not believe Luck or RGIII will be there to draft and there are no other quarterbacks in the draft worthy of being the 6th overall pick. I doubt Bruce Allen trades up in the first round for a quarterback.
So, what should the Redskins do with the pick? Well let’s be honest, the Redskins are not only one player away from a Super Bowl victory. It would do the organization more good to trade back into the middle of the first round than moving up and risking another all or nothing situation with just one player. There are some good offensive linemen available in the NFL draft that appear to be solid NFL talent. Trent Williams could use some help on the frontline and a Redskins move back in the draft could prove to do just that. After all what good is a quarterback without anyone to block for him? The Redskins could not only add to a frazzled offensive line but, add another pick to the mix…maybe even a second tier quarterback.
Let us not forget the Redskins have been known as the free agent kings, in years past, under owner Dan Snyder. Although, under general manager Bruce Allen, the Redskins have passed up on high dollar free agents such as; Nnamdi Asomugha and Julius Peppers.I think this could be the year Washington starts to target medium risk level free agents. At what positions? That is anyone’s guess.
For starters we should put to rest any ideas of the Washington Redskins acquiring Manning, Brees, or Forte. I think everyone in Washington has learned their lesson in bringing in quarterbacks over the age of 30. There is no chance the Saint’s let Brees get away and Mike Shanahan already has his running backs on the team.
There are several different positions the Redskins could choose to address in free agency. I think there will be some addition to the offensive line and wide receiver amongst others.
Even if the Redskins do trade back in the draft to get an offensive linemen they will be looking to add more depth to the line. I think it is possible that they get a center in free agency and add a guard or tackle in the draft. The addition of two more solid linemen along with Williams could make the Redskins offense more effective next season.
The effectiveness of bringing in a free agent wide receiver will have much to do with the Redskins success on the line and at quarterback situation. That is not to say they will not try to bring in a wide receiver. Moss has been the number one receiver for many years but, cannot do it alone and is getting older. The Redskins could consider going after some younger talent in the free agent market, which means they would let some players go from the team. I would suggest keeping the following receivers on the team.
1. Santana Moss- He has proven to be one of the only constants on the Redskins in recent years. If the team brings in a true number one guy, who doubles as a deep threat, Moss could be an extremely effective slot receiver.
2. Jabar Gaffney- The Redskins would have to re-sign Gaffney but, he has proven to create match up problems and brings veteran experience to a young offense.
3. Leonard Hankerson- The 2011 second round pick showed some flashes before being put on IR.
4. Brandon Banks- Kick and punt return threats have proven to be very valuable in this league.
5. Donte Stallworth- I think he did enough during the late part of the 2011 season to earn himself a spot on Shanahan’s roster.
The possibility of adding the likes of a Robert Meachem or Steve Johnson and adding another receiver in the draft could make for a solid receiving core. Of course they would still need someone to throw them, and not the other team, the ball.
I am not going to crown the Washington Redskins Super Bowl champions next season but, think that a few smart and solid moves would help the team’s winning percentage. We have already seen additions to the coaching staff and we will also see additions to the team over the months to come.