Washington Redskins situated at a turning point in the 2018 NFL Draft
By Ian Cummings
There are a select few players who have surefire All-Pro potential in the 2018 NFL Draft. And the Washington Redskins are right on the cusp of that range.
After going 7-9 in the 2017 regular season, the Washington Redskins settled at the No. 13 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. In any other year, such a pick would be far outside the range of the draft’s highest echelon, as that group often only occupies little more than the top five.
In 2018, however, that is different. This year’s draft is especially top-heavy at the quarterback position. As many as five quarterbacks have been discussed as possible selections ahead of the Washington Redskins. These picks, in theory, would ultimately push down talented players at other positions. Players like Minkah Fitzpatrick, Derwin James, and Roquan Smith.
The fall of these aforementioned players, however, is not guaranteed. And the prospects at No. 13, aside from these options, are less enticing. Derrius Guice has long been a favorite, but there have been concerns about his character. The concerns themselves have little foundation. But if he slides anyway, the Washington Redskins will sacrifice value by picking him at No. 13.
Vita Vea and Da’Ron Payne are two other options who have also garnered considerable recognition at that juncture, but drafting either may not be the best value deal for the Washington Redskins, who don’t have a glaring need on the defensive line, and can find solid rotational players later on. Vea and Payne will both be drafted in regards to their upside. That’s not always a safe business to be in.
The Washington Redskins have other options as well, but they are high in number, and trading back could be a viable option for the team. By trading later into Round 1, the Washington Redskins ensure that they can acquire more picks. However, they risk losing out on players they prefer.
With trade capital set to be in the bank next year, they could also facilitate a trade upward, in order to pounce on Minkah Fitzpatrick, if they like him enough. But the Washington Redskins may not be content at No. 13. It is the turning point in Round 1. Before that pick, a team is guaranteed a top-tier player or a first-round quarterback to mold (although opinions vary wildly on Josh Allen). After that pick, teams will have to sort out the remaining options, a talent pool that is deeper than it appears.
At No. 13, the Washington Redskins are at a crossroads.
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What will the Washington Redskins do at No. 13? Will they trade up and ensure the selection of a game changing talent? Will they stay put and settle for the crop there? Or will they trade back, grab more picks, and sacrifice a parcel of freedom? The 2018 NFL Draft is just days away now. Soon, we will know the answer. But for now, there is nothing to stop the anticipation.