The Washington Redskins need help up front along the offensive line. The team ranked next to last in sacks allowed (58) last year, 30th in QB Hits (113), 15th in yards per carry (4.2) and 19th in rushing yards per game (105.7). An offensive friendly environment those rankings do not make.
Specifically, the Redskins may be looking to upgrade at the guard positions. Washington signed Shawn Lauvao last year but he failed to impress. Chris Chester is 32 years old and entering the final year of his contract. Both guys are candidates to be released if the Skins find more attractive options. Younger backups Spencer Long and Josh LeRibeus haven't appeared to developed all that much either so the need is real.
New general manager Scot McCloughan has a track record of targeting tough and intense guards who play with power in the first three rounds of the NFL Draft. Are there any prospects in this year's class that meet that criteria?
"First rounders: Iowa's Brandon Scherff can play tackle or guard...," ESPN Redskins reporter John Keim wrote. "But it's worth repeating he could be a terrific guard (not sold on him as a tackle) and he has the characteristics that match what McCloughan has drafted in the past. LSU's La'El Collins is another who could play tackle or guard. He has the disposition McCloughan would like."
Unfortunately, neither player represents good value with the fifth overall selection. Barring a trade down the draft board, it's doubtful that Washington adds either of them. But what about the middle rounds?
"Rounds 2-4: Duke's Laken Tomlinson is intriguing (not a high second-round choice, I don't think). He has power and blocks to the whistle with some nastiness. He showed he could seal and drive his man. Florida State's Tre Jackson is rated just a little lower and he appears to have good strength, but I wasn't crazy at all about him in protection. At 330, he's bigger than guards McCloughan has selected. I like South Carolina's A.J. Cann, who weighs 315 pounds, plays with power and blocks to the whistle. His protections needs work as well. Hobart's Ali Marpet dominated Division III, as he should. He's smaller at 307 pounds, but ran the 40-yard dash in 4.98 seconds. Texas A&M's Jarvis Harrison could play stronger and seems content at times to block to a certain point."
