Here we will take a look a potential players the Redskins
could be looking at/trying to sign in free agency. Remember new GM Scot
McCloughan likes to build through the draft, not free agency so we will most
likely not see the “big name players” like we’ve seen the past few years sign
huge contracts and not work out. But they will need to add a few starters in
free agency this year here are some positions they could be looking at for
starters: Guard, they need to fix at least one of the guard spots this
offseason to help the QBs; Nose Tackle, the Redskins only NT Chris Neild is
headed for free agency and the Redskins need a true NT that doesn’t have injury
problems as much as Neild; Outside Linebackers, With Brian Orakpo set to hit
free agency the Redskins might add a veteran OLB, but could also look at the
draft to fill his spot; Cornerback, DeAngelo Hall is getting up there in age
and could possibly move to safety, David Amerson regressed a lot in his sophomore
season, Tracy Porter can’t stay healthy, and E.J. Biggers is a free agent and
is also very inconsistent, so the Redskins should definitely add a capable
starter for CB; Safety, the ‘Skins need to at least sign 1 starter in free
agency, they only have 2 safeties on the roster, Akeem Davis and Phillip
Thomas, they view Davis as a long term project, and Thomas as more of a backup
than a starter. There are a lot of needs for the Redskins so they should sign
players at a lesser cost than giving out big contracts to big name players, so
they can address multiple needs.
Color Code:
More of a chance to sign | Might sign (not sure, can make a case either way) | Less of a change to sign | Very little chance
More of a chance to sign | Might sign (not sure, can make a case either way) | Less of a change to sign | Very little chance
Quaterbacks
The Redskins could be looking for a QB in free agency if they cut/trade Robert Griffin III or Kirk Cousins. While I don't think that's very likely, you never know so here are a few QBs they could be watching closely: Brain Hoyer, Matt More, and Mike Vick.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Jason Campbell - CIN (34) Brian Hoyer - CLE (30) Matt Flynn - GB (30) Mark Sanchez - PHI (29) |
Jake Locker - TEN (27) Matt More - MIA (30) Mike Vick - NYJ (34) Matt Schaub - OAK (33) |
Running Backs
The Redskins could lose Roy Helu Jr. to free agency and Jay Gruden loves 3rd down backs to who can catch the ball and who is also quick/speedy. They might even sign a veteran who is a power back or who can do both to lighten the load on Alfred Morris. The Redskins also would need a capable backup in case Alfred Morris ever goes down. Here are a few RBs the 'Skins could look at to bring in: Steven Ridley, Shane Vereen, and Reggie Bush would all be quick/speedy backs that Jay Gruden likes and would complement Alfred Morris well. Ryan Mathews and Frank Gore would both make since to sign because they can both catch and be power runner, McCloughan loves Gore and I think he try to get him to come to the Redskins. Also don't sleep on DeMarco Murray, now don't get me wrong I doubt we would sign him, but here is why it could be a possibility: I'm not so sure Gruden is sold on Alfred Morris, he also only has one year left on his contract, Bill Callahan was the Cowboys offensive line coach last season and could try to persuade Murray to come to the Skins, and also wouldn't it be awesome to have DeMarco Murray run all over his old team twice a year? I wouldn't get your hopes up though, I just thought it would be a cool possibility.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) C.J. Spiller - BUF (28) DeMarco Murray - DAL (27) Ahmad Bradshaw - IND (29) Stevan Ridley NE (26) Shane Vereen NE (26) |
Mark Ingram - NO (26) RE-SIGNED WITH SAINTS Ryan Mathews SD (28) Knowshon Moreno MIA (27) Frank Gore SF (31) Reggie Bush DET (29) |
Wide Receivers
Other than DeSean Jackson and
Pierre Garcon the rest of the receivers were disappointing in 2014, and some of
you may say Garcon was disappointing after getting 68 receptions this season,
while getting 113 last season. But I don’t think he was disappointing, he still
had had 23 more receptions than the 2nd leading receiver last season
(Jordan Reed, 45) and 26 more than the LEADING receiver in 2012 (Josh Morgan,
48), plus Garcon lead in receptions this season also. But another reason
Redskins could look to add another WR is because Redskins could cut or trade
Garcon because he is a big cap casualty in 2015. So to look at some of the
candidates and why the Redskins could look to sign one of them: Wes Welker
could add depth and could be a good slot receiver for them. If they signed
Washington, Crabtree, or Shorts it would probably be to replace Garcon if
Redskins cut or traded him or they could move Garcon to the slot, but he has
been the most consistent receiver since he’s gotten here so I think he’s worth
the money. Tedd Ginn Jr. and Jacoby
Jones could also be possible pick-ups both are very fast and good returners
which is something the Redskins are lacking, plus could you imagine Ginn Jr. or
Jones lined up opposite of DeSean Jackson? Talk about taking a top off a
defense.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Wes Welker - DEN (34) Jarrett Boykin - GB (26) Denarius Moore - OAK (27) Rod Streater - OAK (27) Andre Holmes - OAK (27) Nate Washington - TEN (31) |
Michael Crabtree - SF (27) Cecil Shorts - JAX (27) Tedd Ginn Jr. - ARI (29) Jacoby Jones - BAL (30) SIGNED WITH CHARGERS Brian Hartline - MIA (28) Harry Douglas - ATL (30) Greg Little - CIN (25) |
Tight Ends
Redskins actually need a TE more
than most people think, especially if Niles Paul doesn’t resign with the team.
They would be left with Jordan Reed and Logan Paulsen, Reed can’t stay healthy
and Paulsen isn’t the best athlete and they are both not the best blockers. So
Gruden and McCloughan could look to add another TE, Housler (ARI), Miller
(SEA), Tony Moeaki (SEA), and Lance Kendricks could be intriguing. They are
both good in the passing game and blocking, and would be an upgrade over
Paulsen. Jermaine Gresham (CIN) and Virgil Green (DEN) could be great fits for
the Redskins. Jay Gruden was Gresham’s offensive coordinator in Cincinnati, he
knows how to use Gresham, would like to add familiarity, and Gresham could help
develop Jordan Reed. Virgil Green could also be another good option, he is a
great blocker and can also catch, which is something the Redskins are missing. And
with the Bronco’s having a lot of franchise players in FA this year they could
forget about Green, although if they can’t resign Julius Thomas they could be
quick to resign Green. Lace Kendrick’s would also be another player like Green,
he is a good blocker and also played on a lot of passing downs for the Rams.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Rob Housler - ARI (27) Owen Daniels - BAL (33) Ed Dickson - CAR (28) Jermaine Gresham - CIN (27) Jordan Cameron - CLE (27) Jacob Tamme - DEN (30) Julius Thomas - DEN (27) |
Charles Clay - MIA (26) Zach Miller - SEA (31) Tony Moeaki - SEA (27) Lance Kendricks - STL (26) Larry Donnell - NYG (26) Virgil Green - DEN (26) Anthony Fasano - KC (30) James Casey - PHI (30) |
Offensive Tackles:
There isn’t a ton of offensive
tackle talent this year in free agency, but there could be a few good options.
Doug Free (DAL), Bryan Bulaga (GB), Joe Barksdale (STL), Michael Oher (TEN),
and Marshall Newhouse (CIN) are the best options. In the list below the only
ones listed as right tackles on their team’s website are: Newhouse, Free,
Parnell, Bulaga, Oher, and Barksdale. But Linkenbach could be converted to
right tackle if needed.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Marshall Newhouse - CIN (27) (RT) Doug Free - DAL (31) (RT) RE-SIGNED WITH COWBOYS Jermey Parnell - DAL (29) (RT) |
Bryan Bulaga - GB (26) (RT) Joe Barksdale - STL (26) (RT) Jeff Linkenbach - KC (27) Michael Oher - TEN (28) (RT) SIGNED WITH PANTHERS |
Guards:
Jay Gruden wants to get bigger
on the offensive line, especially inside. Clint Boling, James Carpenter, Mike
Iupati, Rob Sims, John Jerry, and Dan Connolly would be the best options.
Gruden is familiar with Boling, Carpenter was a beast blocking for Marshawn
Lynch this season but will likely want a big contract, Iupati was drafted a
year after McClouhan left the 49ers but is still one of the best guards in the
NFL, Dan Connolly is also one of the best Guards protecting Tom Brady, and
according to bleecherreport.com, John Jerry and Rob Sims are the best guards in
this free agency class.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Fernando Velasco - CAR (30) Clint Boling - CIN (26) Orlando Franklin - DEN (28) Mike McGlynn - KC (30) James Carpenter - SEA (26) Mike Iupati - SF (27) Dan Connolly - NE (32) Rob Sims - DET (31) Erik Pears - BUF (32) |
Jeromey Clary - SD (31) Daryn Colledge - MIA (32) Willie Colon - NYJ (31) Davin Joseph - STL (31) John Jerry - NYG (28) Mike Pollack - CIN (30) Todd Herremans - PHI (30) Charlie Johnson - MIN (30) Justin Blalock - ATL (31) |
Center
There’s not a ton of options at
center, Brian De La Puente, Rodney Hudson, Stefen Wisniewski, and Samson Satele
are the best options at center. If the Redskins decided to replace Kory
Lichensteiger and didn’t sign one of the 4 players above it would mainly be
because of size. Washington isn’t desperately in need of a center as
Lichensteiger was our 2nd best lineman last season, but they could
look to get bigger.
Here is the full list of some possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Brian De La Puente - CHI (30) A.Q. Shipley - IND (29) Rodney Hudson - KC (26) |
Stefen Wisniewski - OAK (26) Samson Satele - MIA (30) Dominic Raiola - DET (36) |
Defensive Ends:
The Redskins cut Bowen and Cofield
after signing Ricky Jean Francois to a 3 year deal, and it’s obvious that Scot
McCloughan is trying to remake the defensive line. So they need to target this
position, whether it be in free agency, the draft or both. To list a few names
Redskins could target Ricardo Mathews from San Diego where the new defensive
coordinator, Joe Barry, is from. They could also recruit one of the best pass
rushers in the NFL, Jerry Hughes from the Bills and would be a huge addition to
the team, lining up across from Ryan Kerrigan. Greg Hardy could also be another
option, although he is in some legal trouble, he is still one of the best
defensive linemen in the NFL.
Here is the full list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Tommy Kelly - ARI (35) Cory Redding - IND (35) Cedric Thornton - PHI (27) Ricardo Mathews - SD (28) Jerry Hughes - BUF (26) Greg Hardy - CAR (26) Jason Pierre-Paul - NYG (26) FRANCHISED TAGGED Adrian Clayborn - TB (26) |
Fili Moala - IND (29) Alex Carrington - STL (27) Anthony Spencer - DAL (30) Dwight Freeney - SD (35) George Selvie - DAL (27) Mathias Kiwanuka - NYG (31) Chris Canty - BAL (32) Robert Geathers - CIN (31) |
Defensive Tackles
Another position of need is
defensive tackle, Jason Hatcher is getting older and Washington uses him as
defensive end a lot also. Someone like Terrance Knighton, Nick Fairley, C.J.
Mosely, B.J. Raji, Jared Odrick, Damon Harrison, or Kevin Williams would be an
immediate upgrade. They could also go after an elite player like Ndamukong Suh,
but would give a lot of money away and not be able to address other positions,
and even if they gave the big contract he wanted, others would probably match
that contact and he would probably walk in the other direction because
Washington is not an intriguing team this season. Some would love to see Suh
come to the Redskins, some would not.
Here is the full list of posible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Corey Peters - ATL (27) Terrence Cody - BAL (27) Stephen Paea - CHI (27) Devon Still - CIN (26) Ahtyba Rubin - CLE (29) Terrance Knighton - DEN (29) Nick Fairley - DET (27) C.J. Mosley - DET (32) Ndamukong Suh - DET (28) |
Letroy Guion - GB (28) B.J. Raji - GB (29) Jared Odrick - MIA (28) Alan Branch - NE (31) Damon Harrison - NYJ (27) Kevin Williams - SEA (35) Tom Johnson - MIN (30) Henry Melton - DAL (28) Darnell Dockett - ARI (27) Kendall Langford - STL (29) |
Nose Tackle
Washington needs a true nose
tackle, that’s all I can really say. 7th rounder Chris Neild has
looked good when he’s gotten to play, but problem is, is that he can’t stay
healthy. For the 3-4 defense to work correctly you need to have a good NT but the Redskins just haven't had one in a few years.
Here is the fully list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age)
Jerrell Powe - HOU (27)
Dan Williams - ARI (27)
(Name, Team, Age)
Jerrell Powe - HOU (27)
Dan Williams - ARI (27)
Outside Linebacker
This position is pretty deep in
the draft especially in the first round, and outside linebacker would become a
major need if they let Orakpo walk, even if we resign him, OLB would still be a
need. Even though the ‘Skins drafted Trent Murphy with their first pick in the
2014 draft, I think it was mainly for situational roles and special teams, not
to be a full time starter. So Redskins would be smart to add an OLB, Akeem
Ayers, Sam Acho, Larry English, Justin Houston, Dan Skuta, Pernell McPhee, and
Brandon Marshall would be a great upgrade. Akeem Ayers was traded to the
Patriots this season from the Titans but didn’t really produce until this
season, but he would be a great fit if he stays consistent. Brandon Marshall
played really well last season and would also be a good pick up if he decides
to leave Denver. The “dream” player for a lot of fans is Justin Houston, he is
a great player and would be huge for the Redskins to get, but he would cost a
lot and will probably be franchised tagged by the Chiefs (at least that would
be the smart thing to do if they can’t sign him to a long term deal). Dan Skuta
isn’t the most known name in free agency, but he is a solid player and would be
a great fit and sign by the Redskins. One of the best/underrated players in
free agency is Pernell McPhee, he would be a perfect fit for the Redskins and
is a strong, physical player.
Here is the full list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Pernell McPhee - BAL (27) Jabaal Sheard - CLE (26) Justin Houston - KC (26) Update: Franchised Tagged Akeem Ayers - NE (26) Brandon Graham - PHI (27) Jason Worilds - PIT (27) Sean Weatherspoon - ATL (27) Kroy Biermann - ATL (29) Geno Hayes - JAX (27) Dan Skuta - SF (28) Ashlee Palmer - DET (28) Sam Acho - ARI 26 Bruce Carter - DAL (26) |
Brooks Reed - HOU (27) Jacquian Williams - NYG (26) Justin Durant - DAL (29) Chase Blackburn - CAR (31) Michael Morgan - SEA (26) Arthur Moats - PIT (26) Jonathan Casillas - NE (27) O'Brien Schofield - SEA (27) Quentin Groves - TEN (30) Larry Dean - BUF (26) Larry English - TB (28) Brandon Marshall - DEN (25) Shaun Phillips - IND (33) Keith Rivers - BUF (28) |
Inside Linbacker
Inside linebacker could also
become another need depending on what new GM McCloughan and DC Barry think of
Perry Riley, he is good against the run but isn’t great in pass protection.
Keenan Robinson did great last season taking over for London Fletcher, and is a
star in the making. So here are some potential players Redskins could bring in if
they aren’t satisfied at ILB: Jerrell Freeman, Colin McCarthy, Heath Farwell,
Malcolm Smith, David Harris, and Brandon Spikes. Jerrell had a good year last
season and made a lot of plays vs the Redskins last season. Malcolm Smith was
the MVP of Super Bowl 48 and would be an excellent signing, he was also picked
by Redskins GM Scot McCloughan, in the 7th round in 2011. And David
Harris is a very consistent player and he and rising star Keenan Robinson would
make a great pair.
Here is the full list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Brandon Spikes - BUF (28) Rey Maualuga - CIN (28) Rolando McClain - DAL (26) Nate Irving - DEN (27) Jerrell Freeman - IND (29) David Harris - NYJ (31) RE-SIGNED WITH JETS Casey Matthews - PHI (26) Colin McCarthy - TEN (26) Heath Farwell - SEA (33) |
Mason Foster - TB (25) Jasper Brinkley - MIN (29) Nate Irving - DEN (26) Mark Herzlich - NYG (27) Malcolm Smith - SEA (25) DJ Williams - CHI (32) Larry Foote - ARI (34) Michael Wilhoite - SF (28) Spencer Paysinger - NYG (26) A.J. Hawk - GB (31) |
Cornerbacks
Other than DeAngelo Hall, the
Redskins are really young at CB, although Amerson regressed this past season,
rookie CB Bashaud Breeland was impressive and made NFL.com’s All-Pro Rookie
team. Also Hall tore his Achilles twice this season, so Redskins could possibly
cut him if he can’t fully recover. So enter in someone like Byron Maxwell,
Perrish Cox, Chris Culliver, Terence Newman, Tramon Williams, Darius Butler, or
Shareece Wright. Bryon Maxwell was also picked by Redskins new GM, in the 2011
draft, he played great this season and is a tall physical corner. Tramon
Williams and Darius Butler would be a good fit for the Redskins and are both
good, capable corners. Shareece Wright could become a popular choice with Joe
Barry now in town if SD doesn’t resign him, he would also be a good fit, is a ball
hawk, and a physical corner.
Here is the full list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Antonio Cromartie - ARI (31) Robert McClain - ATL (27) Kareem Jackson - HOU (27) RE-SIGNED WITH TEXANS Walter Thurmond - NYG (28) Bradley Fletcher - PHI (29) Byron Maxwell - SEA (27) Perrish Cox - SF (28) Chris Culliver - SF (27) Patrick Robinson NO (28) Darrelle Revis - NE (29) Terence Newman - CIN (36) Ike Taylor - PIT (34) Tramon Williams - GB (31) |
Brice McCain - PIT (28) Tarell Brown - OAK (30) Carlos Rogers - OAK (33) Rashean Mathis - DET (34) Darius Butler - IND (28) Kyle Wilson - NYJ (27) Mike Jenkins - TB (29) Josh Wilson - ATL (29) Brandon Harris - TEN (24) Jimmy Wilson - MIA (28) Buster Skrine CLE (25) Shareece Wright - SD (27) Will Blackmon - JAX (30) |
Safeties
It is no secret at all that the
Redskins haven’t had a good consistent safety since the great Sean Taylor. Both
starting safeties from last season are free agents, and the Redskins only have
2 safeties on the roster right now. So I would think they would have to add at
least one starting caliber safety in free agency. Will Hill, Taylor Mays,
Tashaun Gipson, Rahim Moore, Sergio Brown, Ron Parker, Louis Delmas, Devin McCourty,
Antrel Rolle, Marcus Gilchrist, Jeron Johnson, LaRon Landry, and Stevie Brown
are most likely the ones on the radar. Will Hill is a good player but has a lot
of off the field issue concerns but new Redskins DBs coach Perry Fewell coached
him when they were both in NY. Rahim Moore is a physical player who could be a
good upgrade and could be the starter for a few years. Ron Parker can play
anywhere in the secondary if he needed to, but is best a safety, he would be a
great fit, major upgrade, and wouldn’t cost a ton. Devin McCourty is a really
good player and would be a huge upgrade but would cost a lot and they wouldn’t
be able to put the money towards other positions also. Antrel Rolle worked with
new Redskins DBs coach also in NY, and could start for 2-4 years even though he
is 33. Marcus Gilchrist would also be a major upgrade, he has played very well
with the Chargers, would be a good fit for their defensive lead by former
chargers LBs coach Joe Barry, and would be a popular choice. Jeron Johnson was
an undrafted free agent pick up in 2011, he is Kam Chancellor’s backup, and
while he hasn’t played a whole lot if McCloughan thinks he has what it takes to
be a starter, they could get him at a reasonable cost. LaRon Landry was the 6th
overall pick by the Redskins in 2007, and could now be a possible choice for
the Redskins to get him back this offseason. He made the Pro Bowl in 2013 with
the Jets and signed with the Colts the same year. And while his time wasn’t
great with the Colts, he would still be a good player to plug in for a few
years.
Here is the full list of possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age) Will Hill - BAL (25) Anthony Levine - BAL (28) Taylor Mays - CIN (27) Tashaun Gipson - CLE (25) C.J. Spillman - DAL (29) Rahim Moore - DEN (25) Kendrick Lewis - HOU 27 Danieal Manning - HOU (33) Mike Adams - IND (34) Sergio Brown - IND (27) Kurt Coleman - KC (27) Kelcie McCray - KC (27) Ron Parker - KC (28) Louis Delmas - MIA (28) Devin McCourty - NE (28) Stevie Brown - NYG (28) |
Antrel Rolle - NYG (33) Rodney McLeod - STL (25) Major Wright - TB (27) Da’Norris Searcy - BUF (26) Will Allen - PIT (32) Jim Leonhard - CLE (32) George Wilson - TEN (33) Quintin Demps - NYG (29) Nate Allen - PHI (27) Dawan Landry - NYJ (32) Marcus Gilchrist - SD (28) Darian Stewart - BAL (26) Chris Conte - CHI (25) Jeron Johnson - SEA (26) LaRon Landry - IND (30) Thomas DeCoud - CAR (29) |
Kickers
Kai Forbath is also free agent
and was in a kicking competition last season with rookie Zach Hocker. But there
aren’t many options at kicker in free agency this season.
Here is the full list for possible signees:
(Name, Team, Age)
Justin Tucker BAL (26)
Matt Prater DET (31)
Stephen Gostkowski NE (31)
FRANCHISED TAGGED
(Name, Team, Age)
Justin Tucker BAL (26)
Matt Prater DET (31)
Stephen Gostkowski NE (31)
FRANCHISED TAGGED
My Top 8 (Mostly Reasonable) Players They Should Sign: (Not In Order)
1) Ron Parker, S, KC
He can play anywhere in the secondary if need but would be a good starter at the safety position for a good price.
2) Shareece Wright, CB, SD
Move DeAngelo Hall to safety beside Ron Parker and place Wright across from Breeland and you've got yourself a very capable secondary.
3) Pernell McPhee, OLB, BAL
He is a really good player who is kind of flying under the radar with a lot of the other big names at his position getting talked about more.
4) Dan Williams, NT, Cardinals
Finally the Redskins would get a true NT who would improve their defense drastically.
5) Greg Hardy, DE, CAR
While he wouldn't be cheep, I think they could get the price pretty far down because of all the things that happened this past year, but he is one of the best DE's in the NFL.
6) Orlando Franklin, G, DEN
He protected Peyton Manning last season and he would be a upgrade over both of our current starting guards and shouldn't come at a huge cost.
7) Virgil Green, TE, DEN
Jordan Reed is injured to often, and while Green isn't the most outstanding pass catcher, he is a great blocker and can get the job done.
8) Shane Vereen, RB, NE
Just what Gruden want's a great pass catching back who is speedy and quick, he caught a total of 11 passes in the Super Bowl and was a major part of the game.
1) Ron Parker, S, KC
He can play anywhere in the secondary if need but would be a good starter at the safety position for a good price.
2) Shareece Wright, CB, SD
Move DeAngelo Hall to safety beside Ron Parker and place Wright across from Breeland and you've got yourself a very capable secondary.
3) Pernell McPhee, OLB, BAL
He is a really good player who is kind of flying under the radar with a lot of the other big names at his position getting talked about more.
4) Dan Williams, NT, Cardinals
Finally the Redskins would get a true NT who would improve their defense drastically.
5) Greg Hardy, DE, CAR
While he wouldn't be cheep, I think they could get the price pretty far down because of all the things that happened this past year, but he is one of the best DE's in the NFL.
6) Orlando Franklin, G, DEN
He protected Peyton Manning last season and he would be a upgrade over both of our current starting guards and shouldn't come at a huge cost.
7) Virgil Green, TE, DEN
Jordan Reed is injured to often, and while Green isn't the most outstanding pass catcher, he is a great blocker and can get the job done.
8) Shane Vereen, RB, NE
Just what Gruden want's a great pass catching back who is speedy and quick, he caught a total of 11 passes in the Super Bowl and was a major part of the game.
Who are your top 8 players the Redskins should sign? Here are the Results!
We set up a poll to see what 8 players the fans would sign
in free agency if they were the Redskins General Manger, here are the results:
(In order from most votes to least)
- Mike Iupati G, SF
- Dan Williams NT, ARI
- Jermaine Gersham TE, CIN (tied for 2nd)
- Shane Vereen RB, NE
- Devin McCourty S, NE (tied for 3rd)
- Parnell McPhee OLB, BAL
- Greg Hardy DE, CAR (tied for 4th)
- Bryan Bulaga RT, GB (tied for 4th)
Here are the Results by position
(bold is for who you chose at each position, if there was a tie, I choose who
won):
Kicker:
Justin Tucker 50% (won by default)
Stephen Gostkowski 50%
I was a little surprised that the fans chose a kicker as much as you did. Justin Tucker is actually tied in votes for 4th place on the top 8 player list, but I ultimately had to narrow it down to 8 and decided to leave Tucker off of it because the Redskins need to sign players at other positions than to waste a lot of money on a kicker.
Safeties:
Devin McCourty 57.14%
Marcus Gilchrist 28.57%
Will Hill 14.29%
I wasn’t shocked by the results of this one, the ‘Skins badly need 2 new starting safeties and McCourty is the top safety this year in free agency. Although there have been some earlier reports that the Redskins are not expected to pursue McCourty, things can always change.
Cornerbacks:
Darius Butler 42.86%
Bryon Maxwell 28.57%
Patrick Robinson 14.28%
Kareem Jackson 14.28%
I was a little surprised a first by this selection at first, but later changed my mind. Butler would be a great fit for the Redskins and he and Breeland would play nicely together. Maxwell is the top CB in free agency this year and is expected to sign with the Eagles early on, with both of them having interest in one another. Patrick Robinson is expected to resign with the Saints, and is one of the more underrated CBs in the league. And Kareem Jackson signed a new deal with the Texans, so he is now not an option for the ‘Skins. UPDATE: Butler re-signed / Maxwell signed with Eagles / By default Robinson is new winner
ILBs:
Brandon Spikes 20%
Rolando McClain 20%
Malcolm Smith 20%
Spencer Paysinger 20%
A.J. Hawk 20%
I think the Redskins need a new ILB more than people think. I believe Keenan Robinson is a building star, but has to prove he can stay healthy. And Perry Riley did not live up to expectations last year after his numbers dropped. This vote was a dead tie, so I picked Spencer Paysigner, because I’ve heard his name thrown around with the Redskins and because he would be a good fit next to Robinson.
OLBs:
Pernell McPhee 75%
Akeem Ayers 25%
Pernell McPhee was also tied for 4th in the top 8 players, but originally I did not have him not on the top 8th list of players since the draft is loaded with talent at his position, so I decided to go another direction. So by default McPhee landed on the list because of the Darius Butler resigning. As of now McPhee is a situational/role player but I think when he lands on a new team and becomes the starter he has potential to get double-digit sacks every year.
Nose Tackle:
Dan Williams 83.33%
Jarrell Powe 16.67%
One of the most voted players Dan Williams would be a great fit for the Redskins and would fill a major need in the Redskins defense since switching over to a 3-4 when they hired Mike Shanahan. Williams is the best NT in free agency and the Redskins would be wise to pick him up.
Defensive Tackle:
Nick Fairley 40%
Jared Odrick 40%
Terrance Knighton 20%
This was also a tied between Fairley and Odrick, I chose Odrick because I believe Fairley will ask for too much and won’t turn out as they hoped. I also chose him because I’ve heard his name involved with the Redskins a few times and he would also be a good fit for the Redskins defensive line.
Defensive End:
Greg Hardy 50%
Ricardo Mathews 16.67%
Jerry Hughes 16.67%
George Selvie 16.67%
I’m kind of surprised that Hughes didn’t receive more votes, as he is one of the best pass rushers in free agency this season and I have heard his name some from Redskins journalists’. But Hardy was one of the leaders in sacks in the 2013 season but also missed the entire 2014 season. I think both players would be good fits for the Redskins defense.
Centers:
Stefen Wisniewski 100%
Out of all the centers he was the only center voted on. I think he’d be a good fit for what the Redskins want to do and I have heard his name talked about also, but he will also ask for a lot of money.
Guards:
Mike Iupati 100%
Mike Iupati was also the only one voted on out of his position group, and he was also the most voted on out of all the positions. He has been linked to the Redskins for a while now, but he is also going to ask for a lot of money. Plus, I think the Redskins could draft a better/younger prospect in the 2nd or 3rd round, or maybe even if they trade down in the 1st round.
Offensive Tackles:
Bryan Bulaga 42.86%
Doug Free 28.57%
Jermey Parnell 14.29%
Michael Oher 14.28%
Bulaga is the best RT in free agency, but I’ve heard he is asking for a little bit more than what the Redskins would like to pay, but the ‘Skins still are in the hunt for him. Jermey Parnell has been a hot name for the Redskins with new O-Line coach, Bill Callahan, having worked with him in Dallas. He is younger than Doug Free and have heard that Callahan would have preferred Parnell over Free anyway.
Tight Ends:
Jermaine Gresham 83.33%
Virgil Green 16.67%
Jermaine Gresham worked with Gruden in Cincinnati so it would make since to sign him with our tight end troubles, but a lot of teams are also interested. I would like to see Gresham or Green come to the ‘Skins but both are receiving a lot of interest. Green would be a better blocking tight end, which is what the Redskins need, but is also very capable with his receiving skills also.
Wide Receivers:
Michael Crabtree 16.67%
Cecil Shorts III 16.67%
Tedd Ginn Jr. 16.67%
Jacoby Jones 16.67%
Nate Washington 16.67%
Wes Welker 16.67%
The Redskins could be in the market for a WR this season again. With Garcon having a big cap hit, Roberts not living up to expectations, and Jackson could be gone in a year or two. The vote was a 6 way tie, so I chose Cecil Shorts as the winner. I haven’t heard many WRs names involved with the Redskins but I have heard Shorts’ name once. I think he’d be a good fit for them, you could put Shorts on the outside opposite of Jackson and put Garcon in the inside if they keep him, that would be a really good receiving core and the QBs wouldn’t have any excuses, even if they had a bad o-line.
Running Backs:
Shane Vereen (4) 57.14%
Reggie Bush (2) 28.57%
C.J. Spiller (1) 14.29%
Shane Vereen ultimately was the winner in this vote but I have heard all 3 of these names mentioned with the Redskins. All of them are speedy/quick pass catching backs who would be a good 3rd down/situational player in Gruden’s offense.
Quarterbacks:
Matt Moore (2) 28.57%
Jack Locker (2) 28.57%
Jason Campbell (2) 28.57%
Mike Vick (1) 14.29%
I was a little surprised that Redskins Nation voted for the QBs as much as you did. While I don’t believe they will bring in another QB Moore, Locker, and Camobell were all tied for the lead in this vote. I was surprised that the fans voted for Campbell as much as you did, but I chose him for the win because, he has connections with the organization.
Kicker:
Justin Tucker 50% (won by default)
Stephen Gostkowski 50%
I was a little surprised that the fans chose a kicker as much as you did. Justin Tucker is actually tied in votes for 4th place on the top 8 player list, but I ultimately had to narrow it down to 8 and decided to leave Tucker off of it because the Redskins need to sign players at other positions than to waste a lot of money on a kicker.
Safeties:
Devin McCourty 57.14%
Marcus Gilchrist 28.57%
Will Hill 14.29%
I wasn’t shocked by the results of this one, the ‘Skins badly need 2 new starting safeties and McCourty is the top safety this year in free agency. Although there have been some earlier reports that the Redskins are not expected to pursue McCourty, things can always change.
Cornerbacks:
Darius Butler 42.86%
Bryon Maxwell 28.57%
Patrick Robinson 14.28%
Kareem Jackson 14.28%
I was a little surprised a first by this selection at first, but later changed my mind. Butler would be a great fit for the Redskins and he and Breeland would play nicely together. Maxwell is the top CB in free agency this year and is expected to sign with the Eagles early on, with both of them having interest in one another. Patrick Robinson is expected to resign with the Saints, and is one of the more underrated CBs in the league. And Kareem Jackson signed a new deal with the Texans, so he is now not an option for the ‘Skins. UPDATE: Butler re-signed / Maxwell signed with Eagles / By default Robinson is new winner
ILBs:
Brandon Spikes 20%
Rolando McClain 20%
Malcolm Smith 20%
Spencer Paysinger 20%
A.J. Hawk 20%
I think the Redskins need a new ILB more than people think. I believe Keenan Robinson is a building star, but has to prove he can stay healthy. And Perry Riley did not live up to expectations last year after his numbers dropped. This vote was a dead tie, so I picked Spencer Paysigner, because I’ve heard his name thrown around with the Redskins and because he would be a good fit next to Robinson.
OLBs:
Pernell McPhee 75%
Akeem Ayers 25%
Pernell McPhee was also tied for 4th in the top 8 players, but originally I did not have him not on the top 8th list of players since the draft is loaded with talent at his position, so I decided to go another direction. So by default McPhee landed on the list because of the Darius Butler resigning. As of now McPhee is a situational/role player but I think when he lands on a new team and becomes the starter he has potential to get double-digit sacks every year.
Nose Tackle:
Dan Williams 83.33%
Jarrell Powe 16.67%
One of the most voted players Dan Williams would be a great fit for the Redskins and would fill a major need in the Redskins defense since switching over to a 3-4 when they hired Mike Shanahan. Williams is the best NT in free agency and the Redskins would be wise to pick him up.
Defensive Tackle:
Nick Fairley 40%
Jared Odrick 40%
Terrance Knighton 20%
This was also a tied between Fairley and Odrick, I chose Odrick because I believe Fairley will ask for too much and won’t turn out as they hoped. I also chose him because I’ve heard his name involved with the Redskins a few times and he would also be a good fit for the Redskins defensive line.
Defensive End:
Greg Hardy 50%
Ricardo Mathews 16.67%
Jerry Hughes 16.67%
George Selvie 16.67%
I’m kind of surprised that Hughes didn’t receive more votes, as he is one of the best pass rushers in free agency this season and I have heard his name some from Redskins journalists’. But Hardy was one of the leaders in sacks in the 2013 season but also missed the entire 2014 season. I think both players would be good fits for the Redskins defense.
Centers:
Stefen Wisniewski 100%
Out of all the centers he was the only center voted on. I think he’d be a good fit for what the Redskins want to do and I have heard his name talked about also, but he will also ask for a lot of money.
Guards:
Mike Iupati 100%
Mike Iupati was also the only one voted on out of his position group, and he was also the most voted on out of all the positions. He has been linked to the Redskins for a while now, but he is also going to ask for a lot of money. Plus, I think the Redskins could draft a better/younger prospect in the 2nd or 3rd round, or maybe even if they trade down in the 1st round.
Offensive Tackles:
Bryan Bulaga 42.86%
Doug Free 28.57%
Jermey Parnell 14.29%
Michael Oher 14.28%
Bulaga is the best RT in free agency, but I’ve heard he is asking for a little bit more than what the Redskins would like to pay, but the ‘Skins still are in the hunt for him. Jermey Parnell has been a hot name for the Redskins with new O-Line coach, Bill Callahan, having worked with him in Dallas. He is younger than Doug Free and have heard that Callahan would have preferred Parnell over Free anyway.
Tight Ends:
Jermaine Gresham 83.33%
Virgil Green 16.67%
Jermaine Gresham worked with Gruden in Cincinnati so it would make since to sign him with our tight end troubles, but a lot of teams are also interested. I would like to see Gresham or Green come to the ‘Skins but both are receiving a lot of interest. Green would be a better blocking tight end, which is what the Redskins need, but is also very capable with his receiving skills also.
Wide Receivers:
Michael Crabtree 16.67%
Cecil Shorts III 16.67%
Tedd Ginn Jr. 16.67%
Jacoby Jones 16.67%
Nate Washington 16.67%
Wes Welker 16.67%
The Redskins could be in the market for a WR this season again. With Garcon having a big cap hit, Roberts not living up to expectations, and Jackson could be gone in a year or two. The vote was a 6 way tie, so I chose Cecil Shorts as the winner. I haven’t heard many WRs names involved with the Redskins but I have heard Shorts’ name once. I think he’d be a good fit for them, you could put Shorts on the outside opposite of Jackson and put Garcon in the inside if they keep him, that would be a really good receiving core and the QBs wouldn’t have any excuses, even if they had a bad o-line.
Running Backs:
Shane Vereen (4) 57.14%
Reggie Bush (2) 28.57%
C.J. Spiller (1) 14.29%
Shane Vereen ultimately was the winner in this vote but I have heard all 3 of these names mentioned with the Redskins. All of them are speedy/quick pass catching backs who would be a good 3rd down/situational player in Gruden’s offense.
Quarterbacks:
Matt Moore (2) 28.57%
Jack Locker (2) 28.57%
Jason Campbell (2) 28.57%
Mike Vick (1) 14.29%
I was a little surprised that Redskins Nation voted for the QBs as much as you did. While I don’t believe they will bring in another QB Moore, Locker, and Camobell were all tied for the lead in this vote. I was surprised that the fans voted for Campbell as much as you did, but I chose him for the win because, he has connections with the organization.