Top five guards for Redskins to target in 2020 free agency

Flowers just beat out Van Roten for this spot by a hair. And the reason is simple. Flowers is younger and could improve more with time on the interior.

When Flowers was drafted No. 9 overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, he was expected to answer the problems that the New York Giants had at left tackle. That never came to fruition as Flowers simply lacked the technique and footwork needed to succeed on the outside.

However, Flowers’ athletic ability made him an ideal fit on the inside. And that’s why the Redskins signed him to a one-year deal last offseason. They wanted to give him a chance to try a new position and for the most part, it worked.

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Flowers was far from perfect for the Redskins. He committed six penalties on the year and did allow two sacks. But it’s important to note that it was his first full season starting at guard. And he made big strides after moving there and continued to show upside throughout the season. With another year of development at guard, he could be a good starter, especially if he can cut down on the penalties.

Currently, Flowers represents a serviceable option and one that the ‘Skins have familiarity with. But given that he won’t turn 26 until April, it’s possible that he could continue to grow, especially if he meshes well with the new offensive line coach, John Matsko.

Of the players on this list, Flowers is probably the least proven. But he well may have the largest upside. He deserves another shot at playing guard so perhaps the Redskins will give him a chance to continue his development on a short-term, incentive-heavy deal.