The Washington Redskins need to draft offensive tackle Russell Okung with the fourth pick of Thursday’s NFL draft — period.
No more conspiracy theories or trickle down draftonomics. Forget the 1,893rd mock draft you’ve just seen. Indeed, just stop the madness.
The Redskins are focusing on Okung, but it’s not an absolute lock. While the Redskins continue the tired line of the draft is a team effort, NFL sources say coach Mike Shanahan has the final word as long believed. Whatever happens is all on him.
Shanahan should see Okung as the second coming of retired left tackle Chris Samuels. While some NFL personnel people believe Oklahoma tackle Trent Williams might be better, Okung is the smart choice.
After trading for Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb, Washington doesn’t need quarterback Sam Bradford, who’s going to St. Louis with the first pick anyway. The Redskins have too many needs anyway to stockpile a passer for 2013, so a quarterback shouldn’t be considered.
Instead, the Redskins are desperate for offensive line help and this is the last chance for something more than a stopgap journeyman. Former Dallas tackle Flozell Adams may be signed after the draft, but he could go play the right side where Hwy. 74 was an exit ramp for speeding pass rushers last season.
If the offensive line is the foundation, then left tackle is the cornerstone. The Redskins currently have nothing. They can’t bypass this opportunity, especially since Washington’s next pick is No. 103. Unless the Redskins trade Albert Haynesworth or Jason Campbell for picks, Washington has no second chances in this draft.
What happens if Okung is already taken? This is where it’s a good thing grownups now run the Redskins draft. Washington can trade down later in the top 10 and still get Williams and pick up a second or third-rounder. That’s a real win-win. The downside is Williams is vulnerable to inside pass rushers and just isn’t as ready as Okung. Long term, Williams might be a better move, but the NFL isn’t a developmental league.
Could the Redskins surprise everyone and not take an offensive tackle or quarterback? Absolutely given the right deal. If someone offers the Redskins several picks to move to late in the first round, Washington gains options, though offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga might still be available.
Iowa guard Mike Iupati or Florida center/guard Maurice Pouncey could fill right guard over aging Randy Thomas. Pouncey might even succeed center Casey Rabach. Boise State corner Kyle Wilson, Southern Cal safety Taylor Mays or Georgia Tech receiver DeMaryius Thomas are options.
But the Redskins should make this simple — Okung.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Read more at TheRickSniderReport.com and Twitter @Snide_Remarks or e-mail [email protected].
