RADIO
The NFL Draft 32 for 32 series is an in-depth look into each team and the potential picks that will be made in the upcoming draft. Based on the team's needs, I predict the first three selections and give you some perspective on how this affects fantasy football value. Whether it be a positional player or players on the defensive side of the ball, all selections made can help in some way when it comes to fantasy scoring. As we have seen in recent memory, some rookies can enter this league and make an immediate impact. Based on the appropriate landing spot, this year's crop of prospects has the potential to create some very fantasy-friendly situations.
In this edition, we take a look at the Washington Redskins, a team that is looking for its identity after an abysmal 2019 season. There was turnover up and down this roster, especially at quarterback as they waited out Dwayne Haskins' learning curve. Even once Haskins became the starter, this offense sputtered and did not offer much in terms of consistent fantasy value. Derrius Guice showed some promise early on, but once again succumb to injury appearing in only five games. In his stead, the ageless wonder, Adrian Peterson, filled in admirably (898 yards and 5 TD) but was merely a bye-week filler in standard-scoring formats. The real prize was the performance of Terry McLaurin. The rookie finished with 919 yards and seven scores despite the horrendous play at QB. The late-season surge of Steven Sims is an encouraging development that gives this passing game two solid pieces to build around moving forward.
The poor performances across the board finally set up coaching changes for the organization as Ron Rivera was hired to right the ship. The defensive-minded coach may not instill much confidence from fantasy owners in terms of potential scoring. But one thing we have seen throughout his career is an emphasis on the running game, which bodes well for a healthy Guice and perhaps Peterson. Going into the draft, this team will be looking to fill numerous holes on the roster. But without a second-round pick, they will have to nail down the middle rounds. So let's dive into the numbers, take a look at team needs and find out just what this team can do to provide more fantasy success in 2020.
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Washington Redskins - 2020 Outlook
TEAM GRADES
Offense: 67.3 (25th)
Defense: 62.9 (25th)
Overall: 68.9 (28th)
TEAM NEEDS
EDGE, OL, CB
First Selection (1.02)
Chase Young, DE Ohio State
Since the combine, the pick has been hotly debated as a potential trade spot for teams looking to add a QB. But unless the Redskins can get a haul for the spot, Young is without a doubt the pick. He is a generational talent at a position of need for the team. His elite size, length, and athleticism will be an immediate help for a team in need of a pass rush. And to think he has only barely tapped into his potential.
He's still a bit raw in terms of moves he uses to get to the QB. But on top of that, he is an excellent run defender as well. His ball awareness could improve but the range and agility he plays with allow him to get to any play that is stretched out wide. He will be a popular pick up in IDP formats in 2020, but his presence alone will not be enough to make this defense one you can count on in fantasy this season.
Second Selection (3.02)
Calvin Throckmorton, OT Oregon
With the expected trade of Trent Williams coming, filling the need at tackle seems like a foregone conclusion. He plays with good core strength and has the adaptability to play either tackle or guard at the next level. He has a plus technique that he utilizes, but his lack of quickness may hinder him against faster edge rushers.
Throckmorton should come in and be a capable starter for the Redskins at tackle. But his addition does not immediately affect the fantasy values of the skill players on offense.
Third Selection (4.02)
J.K. Guidry, CB Utah
Guidry is an athletic player at the position but at times lacks a feel for both man and zone coverages. He is ultra-fast (4.29 40-yard dash) and will be able to stay with any man on the field. He is a willing tackler but sometimes can get out of position as he readies for a hit.
Some tools will need to be coached up at the next level, but landing with the Redskins is a perfect spot to do so. His selection also fills a need for this team and he should compete for a role in training camp, but hid addition will not have any fantasy impact.
