Assessing Washington Redskins first-round options: WR D.K. Metcalf
By Ian Cummings
How Metcalf fits with the Redskins
As with many first-round prospects, it’s fairly obvious how Metcalf fits the Redskins. The Redskins have a need for dynamic talent on offense; a need that was not filled in the first wave of free agency. If you count Brian Quick as that dynamic talent, more power to you. But I’m going to respectfully disagree.
Dynamic talent isn’t something that you bank on. It has to show up, and it has to be clearly distinguishable, hence the nature of the very word “dynamic”. Some prospects show it in flashes. Other prospects boast it as a staple of their game.
Metcalf, in that regard, is the latter. It’s clear from the start of his tape that he’s a dynamic threat, with the speed, quickness, strength, and focus to make the most out of every opportunity. His traits allow him to continue his development as a route runner, and in a Jay Gruden offense with plenty of diverse route concepts, Metcalf’s ability could pay off in earnest, once he learns how to harness his talent with each route.
As of now, the Redskins current receiving core is uninspiring. Josh Doctson is a developing, but albeit underachieving receiver seemingly destined to leave next offseason. Paul Richardson has speed and route running savvy, but he can’t stay healthy yet. Trey Quinn has potential as a slot receiver, but nothing more at this point.
Even if the Redskins don’t get a franchise quarterback in 2019, they’d do well to add a dynamic weapon on a cheap rookie deal, in order to lock him down in the system until a franchise quarterback arrives. In this sense, Metcalf fits the Redskins better than most. He’s a dynamic talent who could elevate the offense right away, and he could also become a go-to receiver for an eventual franchise passer.