Washington Football Team: Grades for each 2021 NFL Draft pick
Round 7: Shaka Toney, Linebacker/Defensive End, Penn State
If William Bradley-King is considered to be a possible replacement for Ryan Kerrigan, then who is Shaka Toney replacing? And why does Toney receive a linebacker designation instead of being labeled an edge?
Think speed in a 4-3 defense. Also, Toney is the likely replacement for former Washington Football Team linebacker Ryan Anderson. Toney is too small for a defensive end in the NFL and he is an obvious fit at outside linebacker.
Toney could become what was envisioned for Anderson when the new 4-3 defensive scheme became a reality last year. Anderson had trouble adjusting to the new alignment, but Toney could be a solid fit at the Sam position. Late rounders always face multiple hurdles and there is still a learning curve for this young Nittany Lion.
Of the three seventh-round draft picks, Shaka Toney is the one player who has any realistic opportunity to challenge for playing time this season. If he can learn the defense quickly and make the transition, the former Penn State standout could be in line for playing time as a Sam linebacker. Also, he could become a special teams ace or contributor.
Verdict: Toney was expected to be a fifth or sixth-rounder. The Washington Football Team is getting solid value here. There is a very good chance of Toney becoming a quality backup this season.