Re-grading the Washington Redskins 2015 NFL Draft Class
Round 2
Mississippi State defensive end Preston Smith was the choice in Round 2. Could he be the pass-rushing specialist that was coveted by fans for many years?
Smith had something of a slow start in his first year, but he adjusted to the outside linebacker/edge position quite well. Smith was able to record eight sacks as a rookie and it seemed as if the wishes of Redskins fans were granted.
Smith went on to record 24.5 sacks in his four seasons with the Redskins, but the numbers should’ve been substantially higher. Defensive coordinators Joe Barry and Greg Manusky managed Smith’s skillsets poorly and after four seasons, the former Bulldog signed with the Packers and delivered 12 sacks in 2019. Enough said.
Smith was an excellent addition to the team and it was difficult to see home-grown talent leave for another organization. The grade is lowered just a tad for not tapping into Smith’s true skillsets effectively. Poor coaching hindered him, but he was a great asset to the team and this selection merits a good score.