Washington Redskins sign third-round offensive tackle Geron Christian

The Washington Redskins have inked 2018 third-round pick Geron Christian. The Washington Redskins’ entire 2018 draft class is now locked down for the foreseeable future.

The Washington Redskins got off to an early start with their rookie signings. In early May, they were able to come to terms with seven of their draft selections: Daron Payne, Derrius Guice, Troy Apke, Tim Settle, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Greg Stroman, and Trey Quinn.

The only player left unsigned in that batch was Louisville offensive tackle Geron Christian. Third-round picks have, in recent years, taken longer to sign with the Washington Redskins. They represent the midpoint of the draft class, and as a result, it takes longer to agree on a figure for their contract. Fabian Moreau took longer to sign with the Washington Redskins last year, but a deal got done eventually. The same can now be said for Geron Christian.

The terms of the Washington Redskins’ deal with Christian were not revealed, but the prospect of what those terms might be is intriguing. The Washington Redskins brought on Christian as a backup swing tackle with developmental potential. He needs time to grow and refine his game, but in a matter of years, with his length and athleticism, he could be a serviceable starter in the NFL.

Recent injuries also play a role in Christian’s potential impact. Both Trent Williams and Morgan Moses are still recovering from injuries suffered last season, and Williams, in particular, is getting up there in age. As he grows older, there will be only more uncertainty surrounding his longevity. In this case, younger, high-upside insurance such as Christian can be very valuable.

Christian started off rough in early offseason activities, displaying choppy movement and hands, but with both Williams and Moses rehabbing, Christian has received valuable reps with the first-team offense. Iron sharpens iron, and with Christian going up against the best the Washington Redskins have to offer, the hope is that Bill Callahan can coach him up into a solid player rather quickly, much like he did with Chase Roullier last year.

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With his contract situation resolved, Christian can relax in the coming break, and when training camp starts in a matter of weeks, he, along with all of the other rookies, can focus on the most important thing: Football.