Assessing The Washington Redskins First Round Options: DE Taco Charlton

Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Taco Charlton (33) rushes the passer against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

What Taco Charlton Does Well

As mentioned in the previous slide, Charlton has a massive frame, and he figures to be an excellent fit at defensive end in a 3-4 defense. Charlton can use his length to get through opposing offensive lines, and he should be able to make a lot of solid moves to get outside of tackles.

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In each of his four seasons with the Wolverines, Charlton was able to gradually improve his counting stats. He is a highly athletic player, but it seemed early in his career that he would have issues putting it all together. As a senior, Charlton demonstrated that he has all the tools necessary to succeed at the NFL level.

Charlton logged 10 sacks for Michigan in 2016. Working with Chris Wormley, he was part of a dynamic duo that helped the team’s defense to be one of the most consistently threatening ones in the country. When he was at his best, Charlton wreaked havoc against opposing quarterbacks and was able to break into the backfield very easily.

If the Redskins choose to add Charlton to their team, he could end up being the primary player at one of their 3-4 end positions. In all likelihood, he would platoon with McGee, who is not much of a pass rusher, to create a solid rotation at the left end position. Charlton could be a good fit there, but he does carry some risks as well.