Assessing Washington Redskins first-round options: CB Byron Murphy

The Washington Redskins have a decision to make.

The draft class in front of them is strong and multi-faceted, with impact players at almost every position, waiting to earn their chance in the NFL. The Washington Redskins need this kind of player, but there’s one burning question standing in their way.

Who do they pick?

The Redskins are an interesting case. They’re not very far removed from playoff contention, yet the roster is average and could use an upgrade almost everywhere. At first glance, cornerback is toward the other side of the spectrum when it comes to need. Quinton Dunbar is a quality starter when healthy, as is Fabian Moreau, and Josh Norman, as lacking in value as he is, hasn’t yet been rendered a liability.

But a debate about need vs. value becomes irrelevant when needs are obscure and universal. With Norman aging, and with their depth fairly young, the Redskins could do well to add a talented player at cornerback, one of the most important positions in modern football. If they draft Washington’s Byron Murphy, they’ll align the “best player available” philosophy with need.