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5 Washington Redskins position battles to watch during 2017 offseason

By Jacob Camenker

Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) carries the ball as Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger (36) defends during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) carries the ball as Arizona Cardinals safety D.J. Swearinger (36) defends during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Stacy McGee (92) looks on from the field after a play in the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Oakland won 37-29. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Stacy McGee (92) looks on from the field after a play in the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Oakland won 37-29. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Nose Tackle: Phil Taylor vs. The Field

This would be one of the most exciting position battles on the team if they had even one notable player at the position. Currently, the Redskins lack a true nose tackle. Their projected starter right now may be Phil Taylor, a former first rounder for the Cleveland Browns who has not played a snap since 2014. Taylor had a lot of upside before injuries sapped him of his ability to play, and there is a chance that he could make an impact if healthy.

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In truth, there is not a lot of competition for Taylor. The team might be hoping that Joey Mbu can become a backup, but realistically he is a try hard player without a proven track record of success. Undrafted free agent Ondre Pipkins has the size that teams typically look for in nose tackles at 6-foot-3, 325 pounds, so maybe if he impresses in the preseason, he could get a shot.

Another option is to continue to play veterans out of position until they find a real solution. Ziggy Hood manned the spot last year, but it would be a major mistake to let him work their again. Perhaps one of the team’s free agent acquisitions, Terrell McClain or Stacy McGee, could play the position. Neither is a great fit, but McGee may be able to hold down the fort thanks to his run stuffing prowess.

In short, this position is totally unpredictable. That will make it fun to watch as the Redskins try to fill their biggest roster hole.

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