Assessing Washington Redskins first-round options: TE T.J. Hockenson
By Ian Cummings
Could the Washington Redskins draft a *gasp* tight end in the first round?
Yes, the Redskins could. And it could be one of their better options, in fact.
The Washington Redskins come into the 2019 NFL Draft at an opportune time. Their roster is in a state where many positions would suffice in Round 1, yet there is a clear overbearing need for playmakers on offense.
The possibility has been discussed in various circles, but it was first prospected at Riggo’s Rag by Ken Johannesen, who endorsed Noah Fant at No. 15 on his podcast episode. Later, Riggo’s Rag contributor Kyle Hundley joined the podcast with his own favorite Iowa tight end: T.J. Hockenson. Both players are stellar prospects, but Hockenson might be the best for the Redskins needs.
A rare redshirt sophomore in the 2019 NFL Draft class, T.J. Hockenson has drawn favorable comparisons to legendary Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski. Like Gronkowski, Hockenson has a cool last name that can be condensed into a shorter, even cooler nickname. Like Gronkowski, Hockenson’s college production undersells his all-around prowess. And like Gronkowski, Hockenson figures to go in Round 1, and be a game changer at the next level.
The Redskins need more blockers. And the Redskins need more pass catchers. What if they could address both needs, with one pick? Let’s take a closer look at the next product of Iowa’s tight end factory: T.J. Hockenson.