Washington Redskins: The cons of drafting a first-round defensive lineman

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Defensive lineman Da'Ron Payne #94 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates after quarterback Deshaun Watson #4 of the Clemson Tigers in the first quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 23: Washington Redskins helmets on the sideline during their game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 23, 2014 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Conclusion

Drafting a defensive lineman in Round 1 is a fair option, but to maximize value, it is the wrong choice for the Washington Redskins. Vita Vea is the only exception.

This is a team that needs all the help it can get through the draft, and with an effective class, we could see this team make a sizable leap sooner, rather than later.

As we saw in the situation provided in the previous slide, by drafting Da’Ron Payne, you got a rookie starter who has immense potential. But you could have gotten a rookie starter on the defensive line in Round 2, and used your first round pick on another starter at another position.

Next: Washington Redskins post-Alex Smith trade mock draft

It’s all about value, and maximizing that value. Drafting a defensive lineman in the first round may seem like an attractive option. And if you become the general manager of the Washington Redskins before April comes around, then by all means, go ahead and pick Da’Ron Payne. But while you do so, ask yourself this: What are you missing out on?

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