Grading the Redskins Draft Picks

Most Washington Redskins fans will tell you that the Washington Redskins not acquiring Mark Sanchez automatically qualifies them for an “A” in this year’s NFL Draft. But just because they didn’t do the stupid thing doesn’t mean that they did the right thing, so let’s take a close look at the ‘Skins draft weekend.

First Round

(DE) Brian Orakpo - This was indeed a shocker on two fronts, even though I called it not too long ago. First, the Redskins rarely use their first round pick on an absolute need, and that’s exactly what they did by drafting Orakpo. They fill a long-standing void of the defensive unit, and paired with Albert Haynesworth, possibly have created one of the most formidable defenses in the NFC.

Secondly, they didn’t trade up to get him, which means that they were either rebuffed in their efforts to move up for Mark Sanchez, or they blew smoke up the collective butts of uptight Skins fans who anticipated another wasted draft. Either way, seems like everybody is happy about Daniel Snyder’s approach to this year’s draft—defense.

Third Round

(CB) Kevin Barnes - The Skins go local and select Maryland Terrapin cornerback Kevin Barnes. He’s not horrible, and the Terps have a decent history of producing defensive backs that perform well in the NFL. (Madieu Williams, Josh Wilson, etc.)

Plus, he hit somebody and made them throw up. Not much room for an argument against that.

Fifth Round

(LB) Cody Glenn  - The ridiculousness had to begin somewhere, but it is a fifth-round pick, so you can only criticize it but so much. Glenn was recruited to Nebraska as a running back, and after a number of injuries, moved over to linebacker—which he’s only played for a year. The bad part is that the ‘Skins actually needed a linebacker, but maybe they have Glenn in mind for special teams, and somebody else tucked away for a free agency contract, like this guy.

Sixth Round

(LB) Robert Henson - For my money, this guy could’ve gone before Cody Glenn, but his draft review leaves much to be desired. A little short, but perhaps London Fletcher can make him over in his image. Jury’s out on this pick.

Seventh Round

(TE) Eddie Williams - Now this is an intriguing pick. It’s stupid that they draft yet another tight end, but he stands to be more utilized for blocking, which is really going to help considering that the ‘Skins didn’t draft their biggest need, offensive line.

(WR) Marko Mitchell - Another receiver. Did somebody let Steve Spurrier into the war room?

So now for the grade. At first look, this looks like a classic Snyder-Cerrato production. A few good pieces here and there, but busts a plenty. But they did get probably the most NFL-ready defensive player in the NFL, and will put him in a position to succeed immediately. For that, they effectively generate a push for this draft weekend, and earn a hearty C-.

Hail indeed.

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