2013 NFL Draft: Top 5 Priorities for the Washington Redskins
Top 5 Priorities for Washington Redskins in 2013 NFL Draft
The Washington Redskins struck gold with their 2012 NFL Draft, acquiring franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III and humble but incredibly effective downhill running back Alfred Morris. These two spectacular rookies helped change the Redskins squad from a 5-11 team in 2011 to a playoff bound 10-6 NFC East division champion.
Unfortunately, “RG3” went down with a torn ACL in the Redskins’ divisional round playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Kirk Cousins filled in when Griffin went down but should have perhaps came in sooner if not for head coach Mike Shanahan’s unwillingness to take RG3 out of the game. In any case, the Redskins' season ended at the hands of Seahawks, who eventually lost to Matt Ryan’s Atlanta Falcons.
Washington enters the 2013 NFL Draft with some very clear needs. They struggle mightily against down-field passing as the Redskins have allowed the most touchdown passes of 15 or more yards down-field in the entire league over the course of the last two seasons. Washington managed to re-sign DeAngelo Hall, however they did miss out on cornerback target Antoine Winfield, who ended up signing with 2012 playoff foe Seahawks.
If the Redskins hope to build on their 2012 success, not only are they going to need a healthy Griffin, who is currently said to be ahead of schedule in his rehab, but Washington must also make sure to address their struggles against down-field passing. With all these rule changes in recent years heavily favoring the offense, the Redskins need to address their debility against the pass.
Here are Washington’s top 5 priorities for the 2013 NFL Draft.
#5 Outside Linebacker
There is not much depth behind Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan, and Cornelius Washington was impressive in linebacker drills during his Pro Day. He also put up a very solid 4.53 in his 40 yard dash at the combine.
#4 Inside Linebacker
The Redskins could look to Rutgers' Steve Beauharnais to provide some depth behind aging veteran London Fletcher.
#3 Offensive Tackle
Washington managed to re-sign offensive linemen Tyler Polumbus and Kory Litchensteiger, however, you can never be too careful in making sure franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III is adequately protected.
#2 Safety
Washington's struggles against the deep ball are well documented. They recently released the disappointing Madieu Williams and would serve themselves well by drafting a replacement.
#1 Cornerback
The Redskins may have been able to bring DeAngelo Hall back into the fold, but they will need much more secondary help and the draft would be the best way to go about addressing that.
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