2016 NFL Draft: 5 First-Round Prospects Redskins Must Target

Alabama ILB Reggie Ragland

I’m a firm believer that the best defenses have a true playmaker (or two) at inside linebacker. Just look at the Super Bowl defenses, which had Luke Kuechly (Panthers) and the duo of Brandon Marshall and Danny Trevathan (Broncos). The Redskins’ options at inside linebacker aren’t great, so an upgrade is desperately needed heading into 2016.

If Ragland fell into Washington’s lap, it would be getting that upgrade. The Alabama product is the best inside linebacker available in the 2016 draft class, offering a well-rounded skill set that makes him an excellent value as a three-down backer. Ragland can even make an impact as a pass rusher, so he definitely brings a lot to the table–even for a mid-first-round pick.

Chances are that Ragland is available when the Redskins are on the clock at No. 21. It’ll depend on who else is available at that time, but I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see Washington seriously consider upgrading their inside linebacking group by bringing about the former Crimson Tide star.

Next: Noah Spence