Five bold predictions for Redskins vs. Giants in NFL Week 16

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 29: Wes Martin #67 of the Washington Redskins blocks B.J. Hill #95 of the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

2. Wes Martin plays well enough to earn a starting job in 2020

I know what you’re thinking. How can Martin earn a starting job when we don’t even know the fate of five key offensive linemen moving forward?

The point here is more that if Martin can play really well for the Redskins, he will likely be given a chance to start in 2020. The Redskins will see both Ereck Flowers and Brandon Scherff hit the free agent market this offseason. And if they don’t want to pay both, they could give Martin a chance to start.

I recently wrote about why these next two games were key for Martin, especially after how he performed against Philadelphia. Here’s what I said in that piece.

Washington Commanders /

Washington Commanders

"Against Philly, Martin looked pretty good. He was strong at the point of attack and showcased solid athletic ability as well. If he can continue to build on that performance, there’s a chance that the Redskins would view him as a cost-effective starter at one of the guard positions, as Martin will have a cap hit of less than $1 million for the next three seasons. Because of this fact, the final two games fo the season will be important for Martin. If he can continue to play well and show growth, the ‘Skins may be more comfortable letting Flowers or Scherff walk. Of course, it’s also worth noting that they could still bring both back even if Martin does succeed, but Martin will have an opportunity to prove himself nonetheless."

If Martin can block well, avoid penalties, and keep Haskins clean, the Redskins will likely want to give him a chance to start. After all, he’s a cost-controlled asset, so they could invest the money they otherwise would’ve invested into Flowers or Scherff into another area. It all depends on what they want to do.

I’m going to go ahead and predict that Martin will do enough in this game to catch the eye of the team and seriously think about letting one of their guards walk. That said, it’s unclear if it would be Flowers or Scherff. It all depends on how thrifty the ‘Skins want to get at that position.

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