Report: Washington Redskins will take Minkah Fitzpatrick if available

Some talented players are going to drop in the 2018 NFL Draft. And the Washington Redskins could get a steal.

We can talk about defensive linemen and running backs all day. Both are needs for the Washington Redskins in the 2018 NFL Draft. But an option that doesn’t get as much recognition is defensive back at No. 13.

The Washington Redskins have a specific need for depth and versatility in the secondary, and as a consequence of an expected quarterback run in the top ten of the NFL Draft, at least one of two very talented defensive backs is expected to be available for the Washington Redskins at No. 13.

Florida State’s Derwin James, and Alabama’s Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Both players are overwhelmingly solid prospects. Derwin James has the size and speed to dominate the back end of the defense, and his athleticism would make him a valuable chess piece for the Washington Redskins. But what James lacks, such as polish and consistency, Minkah Fitzpatrick has. Fitzpatrick can play anywhere in the secondary, and he would be a definite culture boost. James is more athletic. But both players live and breathe football, and as a complete football player, Fitzpatrick has James beat by an inch.

The Washington Redskins appear to know this, and they are enamored with the latest top-tier Alabama defender to hit the draft. The Washington Redskins have been fond of Alabama defenders in recent years, but they have the most reason to be confident in Minkah Fitzpatrick. He is a very well-rounded prospect, and per NBC Mid-Atlantic’s J.P. Finlay, the Washington Redskins will run to the podium if he’s still available at No. 13.

With Fitzpatrick, the Washington Redskins would have flexibility in the secondary. With Josh Norman and Quinton Dunbar supposedly starting on the outside, and Montae Nicholson and D.J. Swearinger starting at the safety slots, Fitzpatrick can both fill the gap at slot cornerback, and file in at any position if needed. He is a swiss army knife that can instantly elevate the play of the defensive backfield. His situation is similar to Jonathan Allen’s last year. Fitzpatrick was once a projected top five pick. And now, after some developments, he could fall to No. 13.

The selection of Fitzpatrick can improve all levels of the Washington Redskins defense. The coverage will be more consistent, and in run support, Fitzpatrick will be active. In terms of value, picking Fitzpatrick is at the top of the list of options. For this reason, it makes sense that the Washington Redskins would be head over heels to snatch him up.

Next: 2018 NFL Draft: Top 10 Quarterback Big Board

The Washington Redskins could ultimately have top five prospects slip to their pick in two consecutive years. For a building team growing nearer to contention, that is a gift.