Redskins Draft 2012: 3 Offensive Linemen Washington Should Consider

The Redskins enter this draft certain to land their franchise quarterback. Yet, despite the hype this has generated, that pick won't matter if the team can't do a better job of protecting their new signal-caller.

Washington's offensive line gave up 41 sacks last season, and no marquee reinforcements have been added via free agency. This shaky group could undo the efforts of Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen to improve the rest of the team.

The Redskins must use two of their other six draft picks to upgrade their underperforming front five, or it won't matter how many playmakers man the skill positions this season. The following three linemen are scheme-suitable options Washington should seriously consider drafting:

Senio Kelemete, G, Washington

Huskies' standout Kelemete plays with a blend of natural and athleticism and raw strength the Redskins front five would really benefit from. The 6'4", 307-pounder is a versatile lineman, able to operate on either side as a member of the interior—or even shift to tackle.

Kelemete uses a great hands technique in one-on-one situations, has excellent foot speed and has the quickness to move to the second level. He has the agility and awareness to be an asset in Shanahan's zone-based system.

Most importantly, Kelemete possesses a physicality and aggression sorely lacking along the interior of the Redskins' line. His appetite for trench combat would add a fiery temperament to the Redskins' front five.

Andrew Datko, T, Florida State

Datko is a favourite pick of this author for the Redskins, as a late-round sleeper who could contribute right away. Consecutive shoulder surgeries damaged Datko's draft stock, but he has legitimate talent and projects well to the Redskins' blocking schemes.

At 6'6" and 315 pounds, Datko possesses a large frame, but is surprisingly nimble and active for his size. He's a technically refined finesse blocker, with the kind of mobility Shanahan loves in a lineman.

Datko plays with outstanding natural leverage and the fluidity to comfortably slide along the line of scrimmage and out into space.

He's a hard worker who has overcome a lot just to enter this draft. As a fifth-round selection, Datko would offer outstanding value to the Redskins and could supplant the inconsistent Jammal Brown at right tackle.

James Brown, G/T, Troy

Brown has a lot of potential and would benefit from the chance to refine his technique, working in a zone-blocking system. He offers long arms to keep rushers at bay and displays outstanding mobility to attack defenders at the second level.

Brown possesses elite upper body strength and is a tough, hustling blocking. He displays great quickness off the snap and fires into his opponent.

If Shanahan and line coach Chris Foerster can smooth Brown's rough edges, he could be well worth a third-round pick.

Conclusion

The lack of free-agency activity regarding the front five, implies the Redskins are comfortable with the current group. However, this seems like a major risk to take, especially with a rookie under center.

While youngsters Maurice Hurt and Willie Smith demonstrated some potential toward the end of last season, their possible ascension to starting status may not be enough.

This line needs fresh recruits and a new attitude if it's going to ensure the success of a new-look offense this season.