All signs point to Washington Redskins outside linebacker Brian Orakpo not being retained in free agency this offseason. Adding credence to that theory is the fact that there are a handful of talented pass-rushers in this year's NFL draft. With the fifth overall pick this year, the Redskins could find themselves a viable replacement.
In fact, ESPN NFL Insider Todd McShay projects Washington to select Nebraska outside linebacker Randy Gregory in his Mock Draft 3.0.
"The Redskins' top two needs are right tackle and pass-rusher," McShay wrote. "They could take Iowa's Brandon Scherff if they're convinced he can play right tackle, but their better option - unless Mariota slides to this spot and they find a team willing to trade up so they can get some extra picks - is to go with an edge rusher. Gregory has freakish athleticism for a guy with his length, and he'd be a good fit as a right outside linebacker opposite Ryan Kerrigan. He improved his power and consistency this year, but in order to develop into a complete player, he needs to bulk up to set the edge against the run and add more power as a pass-rusher."
Washington ranked just 21st in sacks last season with 36. Gregory recorded seven sacks in 2014 for the Cornhuskers. But McShay is right to point out his need to add muscle. Gregory is listed at just 235 pounds. Even Von Miller, who is considered a lighter linebacker, is 250 pounds.
If the Redskins believe Gregory can add weight without losing his explosiveness, he'd be a perfect fit for the team at No. 5 and a quality replacement for Orakpo.
