Scot McCloughan’s To Do List: Part 1 – Offensive Line
By Chris West
Oct 12, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins offensive guard Chris Chester (66) looks on as center Kory Lichtensteiger (78) prepares to snap the ball against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Kory Lichtensteiger, C
Kory Lichtensteiger moved over from LG and replaced Will Montgomery who started for the Denver Broncos in 2014. Lichtensteiger gained some weight in the off-season of 2014 but he is still smaller than desired for the position.
Lichtensteiger is from the Mike Shanahan system of zone blocking which requires quicker and more agile linemen. If the Redskins change their blocking system, he will surely be replaced. Lichtensteiger may be replaced anyway because of his lighter frame.
Lichtensteiger is a good technician as a blocker. His problems come when he is over powered by larger and stronger defenders. McCloughan has mentioned that he likes linemen big and strong. Lichtensteiger is neither.
I expect the Redskins to attempt to replace Lichtensteiger either through the draft or free agency. His versatility may allow them to keep him as a reserve as he can perform well when not facing overpowering defenders. That will only happen if the Redskins keep their zone blocking system.
Lichtensteiger did not perform as well during the second half of the season as he did the first. He scored a 0.68 versus the Cowboys and a 0.71versus the Eagles. Not a great job interview for him with McCloughan in charge now.
-next, Chris Chester-