Washington Redskins Roster Review: Defensive Ends

The Washington Redskins entered the 2009 NFL Draft in desperate need of an upgrade at defensive end. In 2008, the defensive line contributed just 20 sacks, 13 coming from the defensive end position.

They had also cut Jason Taylor and lost Demetric Evans in free agency, meaning something needed to be done.

So the ‘Skins snapped up arguably the best pass rusher in the draft with their first round selection in Brian Orakpo.

Orakpo brings speed, strength, and a nasty mean streak that should propel him to a successful NFL career. He starred at Texas, notching 21 sacks and 101 tackles during his career, but it was his senior season where he really turned heads.

Orakpo posted 11 sacks, 40 tackles and a forced fumble, enough to draw national attention and a first round draft projection. He would routinely wear down opposing blockers and often spent long stretches in offensive backfields.

Orakpo played with great determination and even when he didn’t get to the QB, he would still disrupt the play. He possesses a devastating speed rush and yet also has the strength to bull rush past blockers.

Orakpo’s athleticism will be essential on the Redskins defense and if he can become a force off the edge expect things to really open up defensively.

However, the Redskins coaching staff plans on Orakpo playing in a DE/OLB ‘tweener role. For now, it appears he will line up at OLB on non-passing downs while playing DE on third downs. This might hurt Orakpo’s progression as he’ll have to learn to play two positions while still transitioning to the professional level.

The question is: Does Washington truly believe Orakpo can play both positions at a superstar level or are they jeopardizing his development because they have no other options at OLB this year?

If they believe he can get it done, then I’m all for it. Moving around a player of Orakpo’s caliber will present matchup problems for opposing offenses. It will also protect the ‘Skins from having a weakness at OLB or DE.

But if this is simply because the Redskins are scared to play H.B. Blades at OLB, then they are making a mistake. Orakpo was drafted to play DE and that is the position he knows. Forcing him into a role he is unused to just to hide the fact that they failed to address a need at OLB is a remedy for disaster.

I tend to think the ‘Skins are making a mistake here. They are trying to get something out of a player that the player can’t necessarily give you.

To receive maximum output from Orakpo, they need to let him play at his natural position. It could turn out to be a great move, but I for one would prefer to see him line up the whole game at DE.

Phillip Daniels was resigned in the offseason despite missing the year with a knee injury. He will likely fill in at DE when Orakpo lines up at OLB.

This is where the ‘Skins may be alright with the whole Orakpo scheme. Daniels is a stout presence against the run and is in top physical shape. Due to his excellent conditioning, he should be completely healthy. So on non-passing downs it would make sense to put Daniels in as he is the best DE in terms of run defense.

To make the best use of Orakpo’s athleticism, it may be best to allow him to play on the second level away from the offensive line on rushing downs. Daniels could occupy extra blockers, giving the linebackers on the second level a chance at the ball-carrier unblocked.

Opposite Orakpo/Daniels is Andre Carter.

Carter had a 10-sack season in 2007, but struggled mightily in 2008, registering only four sacks. He is a liability against the run because he prefers the speed rush off the edge and lacks size.

However, Carter should benefit from the addition of Albert Haynesworth at defensive tackle. Carter’s speed rush forces quarterbacks to step up in the pocket, a luxury that will not be afforded this year due the extra pressure coming up the middle. Expect to see a better year from Carter.

Another small DE/LB hybrid is Chris Wilson. Wilson is solely a pass rusher, but he certainly makes a good impression when he’s on the field.

Wilson is a tough player who will scrap to get to the QB. He is a bit of a legend in DC for finishing off a tackle after being stripped of his helmet during the 2007 preseason. His production dropped from four sacks to one in 2008, but he should rebound this year with the addition along the D-line.

Like Orakpo, Wilson will play in a ‘tweener role. The coaching staff has not fleshed out the details yet, but it appears that Wilson will be used in a variety of ways. He will drop into coverage and also rush the passer from OLB and he might not be used at DE much at all. If he does at all, it will be as a situational pass rusher.

Wilson is a valuable player because he possesses an athleticism which allows him to play different positions. However, there are a lot of linebackers on this roster so strong special teams play is a must to ensure he makes the team. Odds are, he will.

Renaldo Wynn was brought back after two one-year stints with the Giants and Saints. He will provide a solid veteran presence and should provide a few sacks and some run support.

Rob Jackson was a rookie out of Kansas State last year and played in three games. He performed well in the preseason last year and should return to compete for more playing time.

Alex Buzbee is coming off a serious knee injury suffered in last year’s training camp. He will battle to make the roster with undrafted free agents JD Skolnitsky and Derek Walker.

Overall Grade: B

I know it’s an average grade, but considering the lackluster DE play over the past decade, this is feels like an A.

We know the left side will be particularly strong against the run with Daniels back, and the pass rush is much improved with Orakpo. However, it ’s the right side that scares me.

I don’t question Carter’s heart; he plays hard. But he isn’t a run defender and isn’t force as pass rusher. His success is determined by how much pressure comes up the middle. If there isn’t any heat from the DTs, he won’t contribute very much.

The depth is good with Wynn and Daniels. They have been around and know the ropes. Wilson is a versatile pass rusher who could break out this year while Jackson will provide some extra young depth.

Overall, expect to see the defensive ends have a greater impact this season. However, their success will depend heavily upon the defensive tackles who are up next…