They’re getting younger. That doesn’t mean the Redskins have found their nucleus for the future. Rather, it appears they’ve found more future parts than key players this season.
However, because the organization hasn’t benefited much from their past four draft classes (26 picks, four starters, including injured LaRon Landry), the Redskins needed an injection of youth. Nothing wrong with finding role players, but it also shows how much more work remains to build a perennial contender.
Players such as rookie left tackle Trent Williams and second-year linebacker Brian Orakpo aren’t included. As first-round picks, they’re obvious parts of any future.
Here are position players who have played three years or less and did not enter the season as a starter and how we project them:
Starters/key roles
Running back Ryan Torain gets an asterisk because of health concerns. He’s shown that he can be an excellent runner. Problem is, the Redskins still need to find another back because Torain hasn’t proven his durability.
Receiver Anthony Armstrong would be an excellent third receiver on a good passing offense. He’s a No. 2 in a mediocre to bad one. He has something the Redskins lack: speed. He’ll be a weapon.
Durability will prevent Brandon Banks from being a starting receiver. But for a couple years he can be a good returner. His shelf life might not be that long because of his size, but for the short term he’ll be fun to watch.
Backups
Left guard Kory Lichtensteiger is small for his position, and can get overpowered by some tackles — though his footwork is a nice bonus. On a good line, he’d be backup guard or, perhaps, a center.
Tight end Fred Davis is in a tough spot playing behind Chris Cooley. But Davis is a decent No. 2. However, his blocking is inconsistent and his routes could use more discipline. He’s best when running after the catch. Still, he can help.
Running back Keiland Williams lacks breakaway speed, but in a pinch, and with a good line, he’s OK. But he’ll likely spend more time in a third-down role. His pass protection has improved and his vision is good. He can play special teams. Guys like Williams are nice to have.
Tight end Logan Paulsen has helped and his blocking, already solid, should only improve. He can catch the occasional pass.
Corner Kevin Barnes hasn’t proven he can be a full-time starter. In fairness, he hasn’t had many opportunities. Coaches rave about his brains and physical play.
Fill-in
Receiver Roydell Williams hasn’t made an impact and it’s hard to imagine him being part of the future. Washington could use a good big receiver. Williams lacks speed and isn’t that big (6-foot, 187 pounds).
Need to see more
Running back James Davis showed flashes in one game, but he needs work in pass protection. He has quickness, but likely is a backup.
Linebacker Perry Riley hasn’t played much, nor has receiver Terrence Austin. He’s shorter than his listed height of 5-foot-11, but he has excellent feet, which could make him intriguing on returns or in the slot.
Defensive lineman Jeremy Jarmon looked better in the 4-3 than he did in the 3-4, though some of that could be because he was coming off knee surgery this year. He can play in this league, but the question is in which system. Or is he just a future nickel rusher?
