Redskins: Measuring positions of need in the offseason of 2019

Pressing Needs

3 – Wide Receiver (D+)

This harsh grade for the Redskins receiving core isn’t based on the personnel alone. It’s important to give credit where it’s due. Josh Doctson did carve out a role as the 2018 season went along. Jamison Crowder capitalized on opportunities late in the year. Trey Quinn flashed while he was healthy, as did Paul Richardson.

None of these little victories change the truth, however. The Redskins lack playmakers on offense, particularly at wide receiver. Players that elevate an offense. And while it’s okay to believe that Cam Sims or Robert Davis might have that type of upside, it’s not exactly realistic. As of now, the Redskins have a serious talent void at wide receiver, and with a very deep, top-heavy receiver class on the way, Washington can’t miss out on adding a dynamic threat. Without that dynamic threat, Washington’s receiving core will be one of the most painfully average units in the NFL for another year. No matter how good Trey Quinn is.

2 – Quarterback (D)

There’s a difference between saying quarterback is a top need for the Redskins, and saying that they need to draft a quarterback in Round 1. Quarterback is undoubtedly a top need. Alex Smith‘s football future is still questionable, and behind him, the Redskins have Josh Johnson and Colt McCoy. The former hasn’t even been signed for 2019 yet, and the latter is a backup, and nothing more.

If Washington wants to compete in 2019 (as unreasonably hopeful as it might be), they can’t assume Smith will come back on time; they need to add a quarterback. But with so many fundamental needs across the board, gauging the free agent market might be a better option than going all in on a weak quarterback draft class. Andy Dalton has past experience with Jay Gruden, and Ryan Tannehill fits his system. They aren’t exciting options, but a bridge is needed, at the very least, to have a shot at getting the most out of the current roster’s most appealing traits.

That said, with just above $17 million in cap space, and a truckload of guarantees already tied up with Alex Smith’s contract (and over $50 million in dead cap if he’s released), Washington might not have the flexibility to pick and choose in free agency. No one likes it, but a bottom-dwelling season might be the cost of the unfortunate circumstances that have accrued. In that scenario, the Redskins would get a high pick next year, in a better quarterback class. It would take patience, and come at the cost of precious time, but it might be necessary for long-term stability.

That’s a conversation for another day, however. There’s one more need we’ve yet to discuss.