Washington Redskins Unheralded Players: NT Joey Mbu

Compared to the rest of the NFL, Mbu’s physical traits are relatively pedestrian. It’s his effort and perseverance that have gotten him this far. In the NFL, however, those traits can only get you so far.

It remains to be seen where Mbu’s physical ceiling lies. At 6-foot-3, 315 pounds, he certainly has the size to impose himself on the defensive line. However, he’s yet to apply his size and power effectively thus far in his career. He has potential, but other players are more certain.

What sets Mbu apart is his character. He was a team captain at Houston in his final year, and coaches often beamed when asked about Mbu by scouts. He’s a very coachable player. But as NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote in 2015, Mbu’s fate in the NFL rests on his ability to combine mental character with physical power.

"Mbu will outwork many of the defensive tackles in this draft, but the question is whether his effort level can make up for his inability to dominate against the run or as a pass rusher. Mbu’s football character and size give him a shot to make an NFL team."

Mbu’s first shot came in Atlanta. His second will come this offseason in Washington. There are players with more athleticism and physical prowess that threaten to overshadow Mbu. He’ll have to work harder than he ever has to ensure that he won’t be overlooked again.