2021 NFL Mock Draft: Washington Football Team goes offense in Round 1

An offensive tackle wouldn’t be a sexy pick for the Washington Football Team, but it could prove to be a practical one given where they’re drafting. The top-four quarterbacks are off the board, and though Mac Jones will draw consideration here, they may not be in love with him at this juncture.

At receiver, the best options are Kadarius Toney and Rashod Bateman. Both would be considered reaches with the Big Three receivers off the board.

So, that leaves Washington positioned to continue to build up in the trenches. The good news for them is that Christian Darrisaw is one of the best blockers in this strong offensive line class and may represent a steal at this point in the draft.

Darrisaw has a well-built, 6-foot-5, 311-pound frame and plenty of experience to his name. He was a three-year starter for the Hokies and earned a starting job at left tackle during his true freshman season back in 2018. It’s rare for freshmen lineman to start that early, so that speaks volumes about Darrisaw’s talent.

When watching Darrisaw play, it’s clear that he has the tools needed to be a top-tier blocker at the NFL level. He moves extremely well for his size and that allows him to easily stay with faster edge rushers and make plays in space. He truly looked like an elite blocker during the 2020 season thanks to his improving strength and technique, and he should quickly be ready to start at the next level.

Washington found a nice stopgap starter option in Cornelius Lucas last year, but he’s entering the final year of his contract in 2021 and will turn 30 before the season starts. Lucas can still be a solid starter, but he may be better served as a swing tackle, and Darrisaw has more long-term upside than him at this point.

Having extra offensive line depth is never a bad thing. Nor is upgrading your starting lineup. Darrisaw would certainly help the team achieve both of those goals. Other tackle options here include Samuel Cosmi and Alex Leatherwood, but Darrisaw is clearly a tier above them right now.

And as mentioned earlier, don’t count Jones, Toney, and Bateman out here. This may be a bit early for the trio, but if Washington wants to upgrade their offensive skill positions, those players may be their focus. The team could also trade up if a top receiver slips or if they want one of the top four quarterbacks.