Three things scare me — my doctor’s scale, seeing my late father’s scant hairline in my reflection and agreeing with Dan Snyder. I’ve made peace with being a middle-aged fat boy, but the prospect of backing the Washington Redskins owner’s choice in Saturday’s NFL Draft means I must be going senile, too.
Snyder wants George Tech receiver Calvin Johnson. This Snider wants Johnson. Check your calendar for the coming apocalypse that must be just four days away.
The Redskins need a defensive lineman badly, but there’s no one truly meriting the sixth choice. Washington could trade down to midround for a defensive tackle plus a second or third choice — which isn’t a bad idea given its many needs — or make a bold trade up for Johnson.
Go for it — throw in next year’s first-rounder to make the deal. Add cornerback Shawn Springs if needed. Maybe it’s too much, but this team needs an instant playmaker or else coach Joe Gibbs may retire again. When that happens, this organization rebuilds anyway so 2007 is really a last stand. Why not get a great receiver and become the Air Coryell Chargers II for 35-30 victories.
Popular talk has Oakland taking LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell with the first pick. No. 2 Detroit wants Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams, but the Lions know they can get him with either Tampa Bay’s (fourth) or Washington’s picks.
The Redskins are largely choosing between Johnson and Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye, a 19-year-old whose potential has him moving up most draft lists. The Redskins badly need Okoye, but they also need a big receiver who’s their No. 1 or 2. Johnson can have the more immediate impact.
Snyder botched several moves last year, including the trade for San Francisco receiver Brandon Lloyd, who’s a bust no matter what his website says. Opponents concentrated on receiver Santana Moss to shut down the passing game. However, the return of a healthy running back Clinton Portis, added maturity of quarterback Jason Campbell and second-year offensive coordinator Al Saunders better understanding his personnel could make this a high-powered offense. They just need a big playmaker like Johnson.
How good is Johnson? Maryland fans remember his 10 receptions last fall for 133 yards and a touchdown. On the Yellow Jackets first possession alone, Johnson caught four balls for 53 yards. Some of those catches were over Terrapins cornerback Josh Wilson, who is a projected second-rounder.
Snyder has rarely missed getting his desired player. Throw in the last chips of this franchise for Johnson. Otherwise, Gibbs may be gone and the fans with him.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
