Redskins: First-round prospects the team is most likely to select at each position
EDGE Jachai Polite, Florida
The Redskins need depth on the edge. It will be even more pressing if Preston Smith leaves, but it should be a priority either way. For that reason, they will strongly consider selecting an edge player with their first-round pick.
There are a couple of players that could be impactful additions for Washington at 15. They are Clelin Ferrell and Jachai Polite. While both would make sense, I think that Polite may be slightly higher on the board for the ‘Skins at the moment.
The top thing that Washington is lacking on their defense is speed. They have a lot of strength and skill-based interior rushers and Ryan Kerrigan who tends to win with his strength and motor. Adding a speed rusher would really change the game, and that’s exactly what Polite is.
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Polite can get into the backfield quickly and has a good first step. He is lightning quick and has great burst and closing speed. That’s how he was able to rack up 11 sacks last year for the Gators. By adding him, the team would force opposing offensive lines to prepare for multiple looks and it would give them a more legitimate threat on the edge. That’s exactly the piece the team needs to really solidify their front seven.
If the Redskins choose not to go the speed route, then Ferrell would make more sense. But for now, Polite is the perfect complement. So, he should get some serious looks with the 15th selection, especially since he figures to be on the board at that juncture.