2017 NFL Draft: Washington Redskins Viewer Guide – Day Three

Through days one and two, the Washington Redskins put an emphasis on the defensive side of the ball, committed to rebounding from their poor 2016 season. The extra talent acquired in the first three rounds will certainly help. Based on how the draft has gone so far, what can we expect from the Redskins in day three?

The Washington Redskins selected Alabama OLB Ryan Anderson with their second-rounder and UCLA CB Fabian Moreau with their third. Ryan Anderson provides both a boost on the edge and chemistry with teammate Jonathan Allen, although many thought he was more or a third or fourth round pick. However, the Redskins compensated for this reach by picking Fabian Moreau, a talented corner who was projected as a possible first-rounder before his injury.

These picks reflect the Redskins desire to strengthen their defense. While this philosophy is certainly needed, there are still areas of concern on the offense that need to be addressed. The Redskins’ refusal to draft a running back shows the confidence they have in Robert Kelley. But the depth at running back and wide receiver needs to be addressed today.

Four rounds, seven picks. Today will be an interesting day for Washington. They have a substantial amount of selections, thus, they can drastically improve the team’s depth today, as well as find a potential steal or two, or three. Hopefully more.

Here’s a rundown of what to watch for on day three of the NFL Draft for the burgundy and gold:

• The Redskins jump out of the gate early on day three, possessing two of the first seventeen picks. With these early day three picks, the Redskins will certainly be able to nab some day two talent.
• Pittsburgh quarterback Nathan Peterman still remains available, to the surprise of many. He very well could drop to the Redskins’ first day three pick, as most of the teams above them have other needs, or have already drafted a quarterback. Could Peterman, who draws comparisons to Kirk Cousins, be drafted by the Redskins in the fourth round as well?
• Matt Jones remains on the trade block. Now that we’re getting into the later picks, be on the lookout for a trade package containing the troubled running back. His value matches that of a sixth or seventh-round pick. If the Redskins wish to do some moving around, Matt Jones would help them do that at his own expense.
• The Redskins have yet to add help at the safety position. They have two likely starters in D.J. Swearinger and Su’a Cravens, but they’d do well to add more depth. Because of the defensive depth in this draft, the Redskins could find themselves waiting until the later rounds to pick one up, and they could very well find a gem.
• Even though Washington ignored the running back position in the first three rounds, expect them to add at least one in their last seven picks. Options still available, and worthy of the Redskins’ consideration, include Samaje Perine, Brian Hill, Marlon Mack, Wayne Gallman, and Donnel Pumphrey.
• The same goes for wide receiver. Although the Redskins have a respectable group, it would be smart to add insurance in the later rounds. Suitable options on day three, ranging from rounds 4 to 7, include Chad Hansen, K.D. Cannon, Malachi Dupre, Stacy Coley, Deangelo Yancey, and Travis Rudolph.

Next: Grading the Washington Redskins Day Two Selections

Although day three garners less publicity than days one and two, it is just as important. Franchises  can change their course with one pick. Tune into the draft at noon today to see if Washington can finish strong.