2012 NFL Free Agents: 5 Players to Boost Washington Redskins Offensive Line

No matter who is under center for the 2012 season, the Washington Redskins have to fortify their offensive line. The front five needs an infusion of the kind of elite talent offered by Houston Texans pivot man Chris Myers or Baltimore Ravens left guard Ben Grubbs.

The Redskins have the weapons to unleash a dominant running game in 2012 in the form of elusive youngsters Roy Helu and Evan Royster. But in order to maximise the effectiveness of their youthful runners, the Redskins must have superior blocking up front.

Whether a rookie like Robert Griffin III or a free agent like Matt Flynn is tabbed to solve the quarterback dilemma, the new passer will only flourish with better protection. Here is a list of five linemen who can rectify the Redskins' long-standing weakness along the offensive line.

5. Scott Wells, C, Green Bay Packers

Dependable veteran Scott Wells could answer the Redskins' problems at center and solidify the whole offensive front. Will Montgomery and Erik Cook have both worked hard, but neither seem like top-tier starters.

Wells has anchored the Green Bay Packers line since 2009 and has started every game in the last two seasons. At 6'2" and 300 pounds, Wells may appear undersized, but he is a good fit for Mike Shanahan's zone-blocking schemes.

Wells has the athleticism, smarts and technique to excel at the heart of Washington's front five. Age may count against the 31-year-old for a Redskins team looking to get younger, but the Super Bowl winner would add some crucial experience at a critical position.

4. Barry Richardson, RT, Kansas City Chiefs

Youngster Barry Richardson would upgrade a right tackle position that has been a major area of weakness for the Redskins for some time. 2010 trade acquisition Jammal Brown has failed to produce at a high level during his two seasons in D.C.

Richardson is an accomplished tackle who combines good mobility with the strength to be an effective drive-blocker. He has the footwork and hands technique to be a real asset for the Redskins.

Richardson would also add some much-needed power and tenacity to a Washington front five that can often be outmuscled by physically intimidating opponents. The 25-year-old is a prospect who could develop into an elite lineman with the Redskins.

3. Ben Grubbs, LG, Baltimore Ravens

Inserting Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowler Ben Grubbs into the left side of the line would give the Redskins the making of a stout and skillful interior. Grubbs would join former fellow Raven Chris Chester and give Washington two capable starting guards.

Grubbs is an accomplished technician who has been one of the most solid members of the excellent Baltimore offensive front. Despite numerous changes at the tackle spot beside him, Grubbs has maintained a high level of play and gotten better every season.

The 6'3", 310-pounder is excellent in space and possesses the athleticism to flourish in the Redskins' zone-based system. Grubbs will be in high demand once free agency begins, and the Ravens will likely make a strong push to keep him—however, the 27-year-old would be worth the investment for the Redskins. 

2. Chris Myers, C, Houston Texans

Chris Myers has spent four seasons anchoring a zone-blocking scheme for the Houston Texans and has helped provide the foundation for the stellar production of Arian Foster. Myers would be a major acquisition for the Redskins.

The 30-year-old spent three seasons working with Mike Shanahan as a member of the Denver Broncos, from 2005-07. He knows the Redskins system and has the skills to improve the quality of the entire line.

Myers is quick, athletic and active, making him a perfect fit for zone techniques. He is also a highly durable player, having not missed a game in five years. Landing Myers would the ideal way for the Redskins to fortify their offensive front in free agency.

1. Evan Mathis, LG, Philadelphia Eagles

Evan Mathis proved to an excellent pickup for the Philadelphia Eagles after joining the NFC East outfit from the Cincinnati Bengals in 2011. Mathis performed admirably at left guard under the stewardship of legendary line coach Howard Mudd.

The 30-year-old is a resourceful interior lineman who is excellent in pass protection. His superior technique also enables the 6'5", 302-pounder to be a force blocking for the run.

The Redskins like to run a lot of stretch plays behind the left side of their front five. Inserting Mathis into the lineup would increase the strength of the left side and protect the credibility of this area of the offensive game plan.