How Polite fits with the Redskins
Jachai Polite’s best fit is the 3-4 hybrid scheme that the Washington Redskins run. He has the speed to maximize what Washington’s vision is on defense, and if he were to be drafted in Round 1, he’d be just 21 years old in his rookie year, and far cheaper than what Preston Smith might become this offseason.
That said, while Polite’s speed bodes well for him as a 3-4 outside linebacker, his lack of strength and length can’t be forgotten as he heads to the NFL. Those are two qualities that Preston Smith does not lack.
Opposite Ryan Kerrigan, Polite would perhaps better compliment the steely veteran. His quickness and fluidity as a rusher mirrors that of a younger Junior Galette, and Polite’s motor is so active that once he does get stronger, he could become a force of absolute havoc.
Ultimately, adding Polite would allow the Redskins to better maximize their 3-4 scheme, if they chose to do so. Polite has the ability to cover that the Redskins tried to force out of their outside linebackers in 2018, and Polite’s speed is something new to this defense, something that could give it added life. But while his speed brings great promise, his slight frame and streaky power leaves one wondering if Polite’s ceiling is as high as advertised.