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Evaluating the Redskins draft picks: Why Keith Ismael can be a future starter at center

By Jacob Camenker

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 28: Offensive lineman Keith Ismael of San Diego State runs a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 28: Offensive lineman Keith Ismael of San Diego State runs a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – NOVEMBER 03: Chase Roullier #73 of the Washington Redskins waits to snap the ball against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on November 3, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo beats Washington 24 to 9. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – NOVEMBER 03: Chase Roullier #73 of the Washington Redskins waits to snap the ball against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on November 3, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo beats Washington 24 to 9. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

How Ismael fits with the Redskins

Ismael isn’t likely to win the starting center job as a rookie. Roullier is entrenched as the starter there and has been solid in that role. Since being a sixth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, he has been active for 43 games and has made 37 starts. Barring a surprise, he will operate in that role once again.

That said, following the season, Roullier will be a free agent. And it’s unclear if the Redskins will want to retain him or what price they will be willing to pay for him. Since Roullier was a pick of the previous regime, the Redskins and Ron Rivera may be more comfortable rolling with their own guy in 2021 and beyond.

That’s where Ismael would fit in. Provided that he can get add a bit of strength to better sustain blocks during his rookie season, he should have a future as a starter. It just seems unlikely to come in 2020, which is a good thing considering that Ismael needs some time to develop.

In the meantime, Ismael will fight with Ross Pierschbacher for the primary backup job and he should win, as he’s a more athletic player than Pierschbacher. Either way, the young talent the team now has is an upgrade over what the ‘Skins have had in recent seasons in Bergstrom.

Getting deeper on the offensive line is never a bad thing. And adding a 21-year-old to the fold who could be a future starter is certainly smart as well.

Next. Evaluating Redskins draft picks - OT Saahdiq Charles. dark

While the selection of Ismael was unexpected, it’s one that could definitely pay off. His progression as a rookie will tell us a lot about the future of the Redskins’ offensive line. But even if he doesn’t see the field much in 2020, he could have a chance to make major strides while working with offensive line coach John Matsko.

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