Martrell Spaight to Washington Redskins: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

Adding depth at inside linebacker was likely the thinking behind the Washington Redskins selecting Martrell Spaight with the first of two fifth-round picks in the 2015 NFL draft.

The former Arkansas hitting machine seems a natural candidate to switch to the inside of Washington's 3-4 defense. The nature of that scheme will be very important for Spaight's possible development.

Specifically, new defensive coordinator Joe Barry will need to keep the player covered up in the middle. That's certainly achievable, thanks to the increased use of one-gap techniques the Redskins are planning along the line ahead of the new season.

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Spaight will need the protection because at 6'0" and 236 pounds, he lacks the prototypical size for effectively manning the tackle box at the pro level. Fortunately, though, this is a prospect who plays bigger than his size.

NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein noted how Spaight is: "Physical at the line of scrimmage." Zierlein also detailed how the ex-Razorbacks ace is capable in man coverage, important versatility for any linebacker-led D'.

Meanwhile, B/R draft pundit Matt Miller believes Spaight's versatility and production make him excellent value for Washington:

Again, any 3-4 team wants its linebackers to be far from shy about coming forward and blowing up offenses. Spaight certainly won't be thanks to his aggressive instincts and downhill playing style.

His tenacious demeanour and all-action style are the kind of qualities that usually give late-round picks the best chance to not only make a roster, but also shake up a depth chart.

The Redskins certainly needed an extra body and more talent behind starting inside linebackers Perry Riley Jr. and Keenan Robinson. It wouldn't even be unreasonable to argue an obvious upgrade over Riley was needed from this draft.

At the very least though, depth had to be improved when only Will Compton and Steve Beauharnais offer cover. Spaight also figures to be useful on special teams, another area where his appetite for hitting will be welcome.

Akeem Jordan and Darryl Sharpton were supposed to be key figures for Washington in football's third phase last season. That plan didn't work out, but Spaight's arrival could still give the unit a boost.

What this pick really shows is general manager Scot McCloughan is determined to leave this draft having answered every one of the most pressing needs on the team.