Washington Redskins' 5 Biggest Draft Needs Heading Into 2015 NFL Combine
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Once again questions surround the health of Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III. The former No. 2 overall pick only played in nine games in 2014, and may never be able to stay healthy for an entire season. With Scot McCloughan taking over as general manager, the team could be completely overhauled. It may take some time, but after a 4-12 season, there's a lot of room for improvement.
5. Quarterback
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
5. Quarterback
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Ohio State won a national championship with a third-string QB, but this isn't college. The Redskins had three quarterbacks throw for more than 1,000 yards, but none of the three played exceptionally well. Colt McCoy is a free agent and Kirk Cousins reportedly wants out if he's not going to start. That leaves Robert Griffin III. While the team likely looks for a veteran backup in free agency, the position could also be addressed in the draft.
4. Offensive Guard
Getty Images
4. Offensive Guard
Getty Images
Guards typically aren't first-round picks, but the Redskins could look to fill this need with the fifth pick. The 2014 draft pick that is Morgan Moses should be ready to take over the right tackle role in 2015. Moses and Trent Williams will solidify the tackle positions, but guard is still an issue. Brandon Scherff, who played left tackle at Iowa, could slide inside and significantly improve the Redskins' offensive line.
3. Cornerback
Kelley L. Cox-USA TODAY Sports
3. Cornerback
Kelley L. Cox-USA TODAY Sports
The Redskins are in a division with Dez Bryant, Odell Beckham Jr. and Chip Kelly. Facing these dynamic receivers and schemes six times a year means the Redskins must have a strong secondary. DeAngelo Hall isn't getting any younger, and Bashaud Breeland and David Amerson struggled throughout the year. With the fifth pick, there isn't a CB worth taking, so Washington will have to wait until Day 2 and Day 3 to fill this need.
2. Outside Linebacker
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
2. Outside Linebacker
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
If Brian Orakpo signs elsewhere, this becomes a huge need. This has been the strongest position on the entire team for the last few years, with Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan manning the position. With the fifth pick, there will be plenty of options available. Randy Gregory, Dante Fowler Jr., Shane Ray and Vic Beasley are all capable of taking over the role. OLB is one of the deeper positions in this draft with potential starters available on Day 3.
1. Safety
Kelley L. Cox-USA TODAY Sports
1. Safety
Kelley L. Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Safety is the No. 1 position of need for the Redskins. Both starters Ryan Clark and Brandon Meriweather are free agents, and the team would be smart to let them walk. The only safety I have a Round 1 or Round 2 grade on is Alabama's Landon Collins. Collins played both free and strong safety in college, but is a much better fit for a SS role in the NFL. As far as free safeties, Gerod Holliman and Chris Hackett would both fit the role.
Shawn Spencer is an NFL Draft writer for www.RantSports.com . Follow him on Twitter @Spencer_NFL, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
Related: Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 5 Biggest Draft Needs St. Louis Rams’ 5 Biggest Draft Needs
Shawn Spencer is a writer for RantSports.