With The First Pick
Fansided

2017 NFL Draft: Washington Redskins Team Needs

By Jon Dove

Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder (left) and head coach Jay Gruden prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder (left) and head coach Jay Gruden prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Washington Redskins offseason has been filled with drama that has taken focus away from their roster building effort.

It’s hard to imagine the Washington Redskins organization was able to fully focus on addressing their team needs without their General Manager. The whole Scot McCloughan situation was a complete mess and showed the type of instability within the organization.

This situation obviously spilled over into the Kirk Cousins contract negotiations and subsequent trade talks. Behind all this drama, the Redskins ended up losing more talent in free agency than they added.

Below is a breakdown of the Washington Redskins top three team needs as we head towards the 2017 NFL Draft.

No. 1- Defensive Line

The Redskins defensive line is in a state of flux after losing some players including standout Chris Baker. They are hoping the newly signed Terrell McClain can step in and fill the void. However, Washington will need to add more than McClain during the offseason.

Related Story: 2017 NFL Mock Draft

What they really need is a nose tackle capable of holding at the point of attack. They don’t have anyone on the roster who has proven capable of handling that position. The issue is that the 2017 NFL Draft doesn’t have much depth at the nose tackle position.

No. 2- Running Back

Rob Kelley did a solid job when forced into the starting running back role. However, he’s not the type of athlete capable of becoming a true difference maker. The Redskins have a powerful offensive and need a running back who can make the most of the holes they create.

Related Story: Christian McCaffrey Scouting Report

Washington is in a good situation because the 2017 NFL Draft has a ton of running back talent. They could have a realistic shot of landing an elite running back prospect like Christian McCaffrey or Dalvin Cook in the 1st Round.

No. 3- Cornerback

Josh Norman proved last year that his success wasn’t because of the Carolina Panthers system. He’s still an opportunistic defender who does a great job creating turnovers. The problem for the Redskins is on the other side of the field.

Breshaud Breeland is way too inconsistent to be a starting cornerback in the NFL. He allows too many big plays which puts pressure on the rest of the team. The Redskins need to use this draft to find someone to start opposite Norman.

Again, they luck out because this year’s draft is loaded with top-flight cornerback prospects. Washington could find a potential starter as late as the 3rd Round.

Home/NFL Draft News