Kareem Moore who was the incumbent free safety, couldn’t cover and couldn’t tackle which was troubling since that was all he got paid to do. Now with Atogwe in the lineup, the Redskins have someone who can play center field and be the last line of defense. His presence should allow the Redskins to utilize Landry in even more of a role that allows him to play up in the box. That should allow Landry even more chances to blitz and help against the run then last season.

Now I don’t mean to overvalue Atogwe, and make it seem like he is a superstar (of course compared to Moore it’s hard not to think that), but he is a good player. I wouldn’t say he is a perennial Pro Bowler, but he has the ability to play at that level. Atogwe has very good ball skills and breaks on the ball extremely well. He is also good at reading quarterbacks eyes and receivers body language, which shows his instincts for the position. While he isn’t the best tackler in the league, he does a good job and doesn’t allow too many yards after the catch. Atogwe also worked with DC Jim Haslett in St. Louis, so you know that he can fit our scheme.

Atogwe doesn’t come without his negatives though. He needs to work on his pursuit angles and can get overaggressive at times. He is also 30 years old, and has had some injuries the past few years. Given the injuries of both Landry and Atogwe last year, the Redskins could use some better insurance behind them. But hopefully they can stay healthier this year.

The best news for Redskins fans is the contract. 5 years at $26 million is a very good deal for someone of Atogwe’s background. He had made over $6 million each of the last two seasons, and I figured that it would cost at least that much per year to lock him up. While he might not be productive for the full length of the contract, the Redskins should get their money’s worth in the first 3 years. And considering that he is filling a major hole in their defense, I’d say this constitutes a great signing for Washington.

Returning Players (counting guys who would need to resign):

QB: Rex Grossman

RB: Ryan Torain, Keiland Williams

FB: Mike Sellers or Darrell Young as a backup

TE: Chris Cooley, Logan Paulsen

WR: Santana Moss, Anthony Armstrong, Brandon Banks (as a utility/return guy)

OT: Trent Williams, Selvish Capers

OG: Eric Cook

C: Kory Lichtensteiger

New Faces:

QB: Dennis Dixon, rookie QB

RB: Brandon Jackson, Rookie RB: Target Dion Lewis late

FB: John Kuhn

TE: Late round TE, Lee Smith from Marshall would be interesting

WR: Steve Breaston, Legedu Naanee, Late round tall WR: Tori Gurley or DeAndre Brown

OT: Ryan Harris, Mid-Round Draft pick: Joseph Barksdale

OG: Robert Gallery or Chris Chester and at least one rookie (preferably a 2nd or 3rd round guy, Hudson, Watkins etc.)

C: Ryan Kalil

Now it is pretty evident that the Redskins need to do two things from my strategy; One trade back and stockpile picks and Two focus on the offensive line. What money the Redskins do have to invest on offense needs to be earmarked to the offensive line first and foremost. Not only do the Redskins need to ensure that their starters are more talented, but they also need to focus on depth. Guys like Cook, Capers and Lichtensteiger don’t give fans a lot of faith in their abilities.

Now not everyone I proposed can make this team and you could see some tough position decisions, such as carrying on two TE’s and/or one FB. The real point is to show just how little talent the Redskins currently have assembled. While fans might be happy with going out and adding a top young quarterback or receiver, that isn’t going to solve the Redskins issues on offense. If Washington can revamp their offensive line, as well as adding an actual fullback, both their rushing and passing attacks will vastly improve.

As for the other areas I think Washington gets better, and at least closer to league average. Despite having one of the league’s highest paid QB’s last season, the Redskins passing attack was a joke. Rex Grossman isn’t the answer, but he can be a stop gap. A guy like Dennis Dixon offers the Redskins a whole different area of the playbook, as well as having a little upside to be a full time starter. Adding a rookie quarterback, will at least give Washington a young quarterback with an eye towards the future.

While Brandon Jackson isn’t the best running back on the market, there is at least upside there and he can help fill in if when Torain goes down next season. Adding a change of pace back like Lewis helps add balance to the Redskins rushing attack, as well as some potential to develop into a long term answer. I would also keep an eye on the waiver wire as I’m sure a few decent size named running backs will be looking for a job. One name to keep an eye on is Reggie Bush. He too could help in the change of pace department for the Redskins, while giving them an excellent receiver out of the backfield.

As for the wide receivers, no this group won’t make anyone forget about “The Posse”, but it would be a vast improvement to what the Redskins currently have. The lack of talent behind Santana Moss and Armstrong is extremely telling, adding a guy like Breaston, would give the Redskins another reliable target. And Naanee and what ever rookie would add much needed size to their roster.

While Rome wasn’t built in a day and the Redskins won’t be competitive next season, they can finally start the process of building a contender. If they focus on strengthening their offensive line, next season will at least be a stepping stone towards the future. But if they try to bring in the top skilled players, this team won’t be any closer to contention.

PROS:

Work Ethic

Attitude

Values

Strong Arm

Accuracy

Speed

Quickness

Intelligence

Size

Leadership

Adaptability

I know people are afraid of him being a running quarterback, but Kaepernick has the arm strength, accuracy and the intelligence to be a great throwing quarterback at the next level. I was really impressed with his adaptability at the Senior Bowl and he really shined when others struggled. With the exception of Andy Dalton, every other quarterback there came from a pro style system. Yet Kaepernick was either first or second best (next to Ponder) among signal callers (personally I give the edge to Kaepernick, with the better week of practices). While it was apparent he was most comfortable working out of the shotgun, Kaepernick still looked good under center, and seemed to read defenses pretty well. When you combine his throwing skills with his size and speed, you have a heck of a prospect.

What really separates Kaepernick for me though is character. There is no doubt that Kaepernick wants to win, and wants to be a starting quarterback, but every interview I’ve seen with him or about him shows a very level headed and grounded kid. He is fiery on the field, but very normal off, he is confident in his abilities, but not cocky. He was not highly recruited out of high school (only one scholarship offer), and continuously doubted by the media, fans and scouts, yet has always proven them wrong.  He displays the most characteristics of what it takes to be a winner at the next level.

CONS:

Played in the Pistol offense

Needs better footwork coming from under center

Has an elongated release (a hitch in his motion)

Has the arm to make all the throws, but didn’t actually run them in college

Has to learn to read more complex defenses

Has learn when to run and when to throw at the next level.

While there are some significant concerns, none are what I’d call a deal breaker. Why? Because nothing on here questions what’s between his ears, which is the most important thing for a quarterback to have. Now I’m not saying these things don’t need to be worked on, just that given his track record of proving doubters wrong I’d bet that he works it out.

The footwork and release are the two most important, and it sounds like he is working on both this offseason. I’ll be interested to see how he throws at the combine and if the release is any cleaner (he has already said he wants to throw at the combine and welcomes the challenge). As for a lot of other things on this list they are things that ever quarterback shares, so it is just a matter of who can overcome them.

Final Thoughts:

As I alluded to before, the thing that separates Colin Kaepernick for me is not his arm, speed, size or strength, but rather his attitude and intelligence. When I hear of a quarterback who not only wants to throw, but says “I will do everything at the combine, there is nothing for me to hide from NFL teams. I want to go against my competition and have everyone see!” — sign me up.

If you need more evidence of his attitude and approach, check out this online chat he did with fans, which is where that quote came from.  While the questions of how he will translate into a pro style system are still there, he looked pretty good Senior Bowl week, and he only had a couple of weeks to train. Imagine how he could be with a full offseason and a good coaching staff. He will need a little bit of develop time, but I think his future is very bright.

On a personal note as a Redskins fan, this is the quarterback you should be targeting Mike Shanahan. Not Newton, not Mallett, and certainly not Locker. They have too many questions and baggage, despite having the big names. Go for the guy who wants to win and be apart of something and show your ability to develop him. If you get an extra 2nd round pick or an early 3rd, I’d very much consider pulling the trigger on Kaepernick, it could be a little high for him, but I believe in his ability to reach his potential.

The simple fact is a receiver doesn’t rank in the Redskins top 5 among offensive needs (RT, C, RG, LG, QB for those scoring at home) currently. Now it might be a bit more pressing if Santana Moss leaves via free agency, but even if that is the case the Redskins don’t need to spend $10 million a year on a free agent or the 10th overall pick in the draft. While elite receivers are fun to watch and great to reminisce about, they don’t equal winning.

Look around the league and most of the top receivers had their seasons end in Week 17 (obviously a few notable exceptions):

Steve Smith (Panthers): Sure age is catching up to Smith, but his age wasn’t the factor into why he posted his worst offensive numbers and the Panthers ended up with the leagues worst record.

Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals): Fitzgerald actually had a good season, but one man can not carry an offense. Bad O-line, QB, and RB play doomed this team.

Andre Johnson (Texans): Well you really can’t blame the offense and Johnson, Foster and Schaub did everything in their power to make the Texans contenders, their defense collapsed though.

Calvin Johnson (Lions): Johnson did well, and made three quarterbacks look great, unfortunately the offensive line was so bad that they couldn’t keep any QB healthy enough to make a run.

Miles Austin/Dez Bryant/Roy Williams (Cowboys): Austin is the true star, but it’s worth noting that even with Williams, and Bryant (not to mention great backs and Jason Witten), they weren’t able to overcome the inefficiencies of their offensive line and defense. Bryant could be a star in the making, but not taking a tackle or CB last year meant the Cowboys watched the Super Bowl in their own home town, from the stands and at home.

Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens (Bengals): Now dysfunction had something to do with this, but the point is despite adding these extra weapons (including using a couple high draft picks) the Bengals passing offense (entire offense) was a joke.

Brandon Lloyd (Broncos): Lloyd isn’t in the star category as Redskins fans well know, but it is worth mentioning that the Broncos woes had nothing to do with the loss of Brandon Marshall (them not capitalizing on some of the trade return is another story).

Michael Crabtree (49ers): Crabtree has basically been as good as advertised (though not an elite receiver just yet), but the play of the 49ers quarterbacks (as well as the implosion of the team) meant that they will be picking 7th this April.

Kenny Britt (And part of Randy Moss) (Titans): Britt is quickly becoming a star receiver (not fully there yet), that would have been well over 1,000 yards had he not missed 4 plus weeks with injury. The thing is though they added Randy Moss during that time and he did absolutely nothing. The Titans also have a good 2nd (or 3rd when Moss was there) option in Nate Washington, a good offensive line, and the best back in the league.

Percy Harvin/Sidney Rice (part of the season)/Randy Moss (part of the season): Now Moss was no doubt a cancer this past year, but even with Harvin and 1/3 a year of Rice this team wasn’t a contending team. Too many institutional issues, not to mention quarterback play and the weak offensive line led to the Vikings downfall.

Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd: Now Jackson really only played the last 4 weeks of the season and Floyd missed a number of weeks, but the fact of the matter is not having star receivers for a good chunk of the year didn’t set the Chargers back. Jackson and Floyd weren’t the only players missing as, Gates missed significant time as did some of the replacement receivers, through it all Phillip Rivers threw for over 4,700 yards. While the Chargers might have made the playoffs if all their receivers were healthy (and Jackson didn’t hold out, the real issue with this team was their running game, and offensive line. And for those who say well the Chargers went 3-1 during those last 4 weeks with Vincent Jackson, just take one look at who they were playing. They beat the Chiefs, who were without Matt Cassel, the 49ers who were in complete disarray at that point, and the Broncos who were led by a rookie quarterback and a brand new head coach. They also lost to the Bengals in that stretch, which shows that Chargers maybe weren’t as good as people gave them credit for. San Diego should have won those games if they picked fans out of the stands to run routes for Rivers, so I have a hard time really saying that Jackson had some momentous impact at the end of the season.

Analysis:

It might be fun to think about drafting Julio Jones or Jonathan Baldwin and/or signing Vincent Jackson, Santonio Holmes, or Sidney Rice, but any one of those players (even two of them) aren’t going to make the Redskins contenders. Washington has way to many needs to spend a big chunk of their offseason resources (money and picks) on receivers. Now I don’t think they shouldn’t address the position, guys like Mike Sims Walker, Steve Breaston, etc. could be good values (depending on their price tag). No the Redskins might not get that true number 1 wideout, but they can improve their corps, and with a better all around team, they will be closer to competing.

Part 1 Quarterbacks and Fullbacks

Offensive Line:

Tackle-

Luckily the Redskins have one tackle position set (unfortunately it is the only position along the offensive line that is set), they do need to find a long term answer for right tackle though, and right now that answer isn’t on the roster. Here is how I’d approach the tackle vacancy this offseason:

1. Let Stephon Heyer walk as a free agent/Cut Artis Hicks/Let Jammal Brown walk as a free agent:

Now I’m guessing there wouldn’t be much uproar over the first two steps involving what to do with current Redskins, but that the fans won’t approve of getting rid of Brown. Personally I don’t understand why everyone wants to peg Brown as the short or the long term answer at tackle. I know people will point to his last couple games of the season as pretty decent performances and worthy of an extension. The problem with that is we are only looking at 3-4 games, which if using just the last couple of weeks than Rex Grossman looks like an effective starter at QB, and Ryan Torain looks like a bust at running back (neither which is true…though admittedly I’m not super high on Torain). Sample size matters, and the overall picture doesn’t look good for Brown. All-in-all he had a bad year last year, and really was awful for 3/4 of the season (he also had multiple injuries which is becoming a chronic concern). Yes he improved the last couple of weeks, but he also faced two of the weakest defensive lines in the Jags and Bucs during that span (he did shut down the Giants pretty well though). I don’t see the logic in giving in a multi-year commitment based on a couple of weeks. This is a guy who missed the entire 2009 season, and while he was a Pro Bowler in 2008, the 2nd half of the season his performance dropped dramatically. Three good weeks in two and a half years is a bit scary for me. Unless he signs for a bargain basement deal, he isn’t worth it in my opinion.

As for Heyer and Hicks I think it is time to move on from both. Heyer tries hard, but he is just overmatched and has never lived up to his potential. Hicks looked to be a solid signing last year as a potential starting guard/swing tackle, but he didn’t look good in either role. The Redskins can free up some money by cutting him, as well as find a better option.

2. Sign A Free Agent Capable of Starting:

The market looks to be wide open, and fairly deep when it comes to starting caliber tackles. Now I’d expect a couple of the top guys (Willie Colon and Doug Free) to be Franchised, and while I love Jared Gaither’s talent, I’m guessing the price tag will be $8-10 million a season, which doesn’t make much sense for Washington. Matt Light is starting to show his age, and might not transition to well to the right side. That leaves three primary targets:

Tyson Clabo (Atlanta): Clabo got his first Pro Bowl appearance this year and that could price him out of the Redskins range, but he is worth looking into. Since he profiles as a RT only, his price tag shouldn’t get too exorbitant (one would hope), meaning the Skins should at least have a shot for him. He is a great run blocker and pretty good at pass blocking as well.

Marshall Yanda (Baltimore): Yanda moved over to RT this year to replace Gaither, and performed remarkably well. He is a more natural guard (which is another big need area for the Skins), but looked like he can be a long term tackle based on his performance last year.

Ryan Harris (Broncos): Harris is an intriguing talent who was originally drafted by Mike Shanahan when he was in Denver. When he is healthy he shows the ability to become a dominate right tackle. Now a big part of his issue is his health as these last two years have been filled with nagging injuries.

3. Draft A Young Tackle In The Mid Rounds:

Even if the Redskins end up signing a guy like Clabo who is known for his health, Washington could use a good young cheap backup. Right now the Redskins don’t have a 3rd or a 4th round pick, but hopefully they will trade back in round 1 and potentially move players (Haynesworth, F. Davis, McNabb etc.) to acquire more 3-5th round picks.

In that range I’d target one of the following: James Carpenter, Joseph Barksdale, Jason Pinkston, Chris Hariston, Marcus Gilbert, and James Brewer. All have the upside to potentially be a starter one day, but none are real complete products. Any of them would be a great addition and third tackle for the Redskins.

Guard:

In my opinion the Redskins need to replace both of their guards if they want to really have an offensive line capable of being playoff caliber. Here is what I would target:

1. Cut or Trade Derrick Dockery/Let Will Montgomery walk as a free agent/Move Kory Lichtensteiger to backup G/C:

Derrick Dockery is still a starting caliber guard in this league, just not in a zone blocking scheme like the one the Redskins employ. If they can get any sort of trade value out of him (even a 7th rounder or moving up draft position in a particular round) they have to do it. Montgomery filled in alright for the Redskins last year, but he is no better than a backup interior lineman. He could be resigned in that capacity, but he basically is the same player as Kory Lichtensteiger and rookie Erik Cook. As for Lichtensteiger, I thought he was about as awful as can be last season, and believe as long as he is starting the offense will have issues. He has some versatility so that should keep a roster spot for him (as should the fact that he is a Shanahan guy). Hopefully Lichtensteiger is no more than at the bottom of the Redskins depth chart his season (as opposed to being at the top last year), as they need outside help.

2. Sign a Mid-range Free Agent:

Given the Redskins various needs I think they will have to use both free agency and the draft to fill their guard issue. I don’t think they have the money to sign to free agent guards, even if neither is a stud. I think the Redskins should target the 2nd class of guards and look at one of the following players:

Robert Gallery (Raiders): Injuries will keep Gallery for getting top money, but it shouldn’t keep the Redskins away. If the price is right Gallery could be a great addition to the Redskins offensive line. They just hired the Raiders assistant offensive line coach to the same role with the Redskins, meaning there is some familiarity there.

Chris Chester (Ravens): Chester became a full-time starter this season and he didn’t disappoint for the Ravens. While he isn’t exceptional in any one area, he is versatile and pretty athletic making him a good fit for Washington’s scheme.

Daryn Colledge (Packers): Colledge has had a bit of an up-and-down career, but he is a capable starting guard. He doesn’t dominate as much as you would like but he gets the job done.

Justin Blalock (Falcons): Blalock is probably the top guard in the 2nd tier so the price tag could be too high, but he gets the job done. He is the type of guy who will start every game for the next 5 years, but no one will mention. He won’t standout and be an All-Pro, but he also won’t make mistakes that will get him noticed as well.

3. Draft 1-2 Guards:

Given their lack of picks, I doubt they could get two starting caliber guards from the draft (though it would be a great strategy), but they should at least target getting one. I think they should look long and hard at using their 2nd round pick (or a 2nd round pick if they trade back and add more) on a guard. The guys I’d look at in the 2nd-3rd round range are Danny Watkins, Rodney Hudson, Ben Ijalana, Orlando Franklin and Will Rackley. If they have extra picks, they could look at guys like John Moffitt, Clint Boling, and Lee Ziemba in the 5th-6th round range as backups, with the potential to start down the line.

Center:

The Redskins center Casey Rabach has been good for them in the past, but it is quite apparent that the game has passed him by. He was awful last season, and was even more exposed, because there wasn’t even average talent next to him at guard. Luckily the Redskins could have a great solution to solve their center woes this offseason, and here’s how:

1. Cut Casey Rabach:

File this under no-brainer, Rabach is making too much money and is well below average, Washington needs to cut him as soon as a new CBA is signed.

2. Sign Ryan Kalil (Panthers):

Normally free agents this talented (back-to-back Pro Bowls) and this young (will be just 26 next season) don’t reach free agency, but I don’t see how the Panthers can retain him. They can’t use a Franchise tag on him since, all offensive linemen are grouped together, meaning the Tag would account for over $10 million (or more than $3 million more what the highest paid center Nick Mangold makes). And considering the Panthers have top free agents at RB and DE, Kalil might not be a priority for them to resign. Kalil would be a perfect fit for the Redskins offense, and worth every penny they’d have to pay him. They will have to outbid plenty of other teams for his services, but he should be the Redskins top priority this offseason.

Analysis:

Some might have questioned why I didn’t target better quality tackles and guards, but in my opinion, I think Kalil is the best value out there. Centers get overlooked, but when it comes down to it are just as important as the other offensive line positions. You can get one of the top 5 centers in this league (who is still just 26 and has a pretty clean injury history), for around the same price that you could re-sign Jammal Brown. Brown would be lucky to be ranked in the top 30 offensive tackles, and even that is probably a stretch. If the Redskins can sign Kalil, and then two good values at tackle and guard, they should be a vastly improved team next year. Harris and Yanda are my two top targets at tackle (if the price is right) and Chester and Gallery are who I’d be looking for at guard.

Now the reason I really want add some linemen in the midrounds, is I think there is some great value there for the Redskins. There are very good starting caliber guards who should be available in rounds 2 and 3. As well as a number of good tackles in those mid-rounds. This is why it is paramount that the Redskins add additional picks, so they can reshape this line into a new version of the Hogs.

1. Carolina Panthers: DT Nick Fairley, Auburn-

With no Andrew Luck in the mix the Panthers, will go to plan B, which is to choose from one of the elite defensive players in the draft or wide receiver A.J. Green. There might be a big push for the Panthers to go for Green, given their need for a play making receiver (especially to help in the development of Jimmy Claussen), but I think that would be a big mistake. The Panthers have spent a number of draft picks on  receivers the last few years, and while Green is better than all of them, that is just too many resources to put into one position, especially when they have so many other holes. The other reason why Green doesn’t make sense is that receivers just aren’t worth the high draft pick when you have so many other needs. As good as Calvin Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald are they weren’t enough to keep their teams from having losing records. The Panthers need a bigger impact player.

While the Panthers could go for one of the elite corners or a defensive end, those aren’t nearly as big of a need as defensive tackle. Fairley is an elite player, and fills a major need for the Panthers. Adding Fairley to an already impressive defensive line (assuming they resign Johnson), would jump start the Panthers rebuilding efforts big time.

Feb. 1st update: Still Think Fairley is the pick here, combine, workouts and background work will all be crucial. The reports about his attitude are troubling, but not sold yet that it changes anything.

2. Denver Broncos: CB Prince Amukamara, Nebraska-

The Broncos could go in multiple defensive directions here, but I’m going to say they nab Amukamara here. The Broncos could opt for a defensive end (or a rush linebacker if they stay in the 3-4), but taking a corner here makes sense. Champ Bailey is an impending free agent, and if they can’t agree to terms with them their corner situation is dismal. Even if they do bring Bailey back, his time at the top of his game is near the end, so adding a young elite corner makes sense. Also, when you play Phillip Rivers twice a year, strengthening your defensive backs is a always a good idea.

Feb. 1st update: Still think CB is the pick here and believe that Amukamara is that guy.

3. Buffalo Bills: DE/OLB Von Miller, Texas A&M-

The Bills could look to grab the top receiver or corner back on the board, but I’m thinking they will go with the best pass rusher to improve their front 7. It doesn’t make much sense to run the 3-4 if you don’t have a rush linebacker who can get to the quarterback. Aaron Maybin has been a huge bust so far, so it is time for the Bills to address their biggest need. Miller really separated himself at the Senior Bowl and I now believe he is a top 5 pick. His instincts are unreal and he has the ability to be a superstar.

pick change: previous selection OLB Robert Quinn

4. Cincinnati Bengals: WR A.J. Green, Georgia-

The Bengals will be quite happy to find Green on their doorstep and won’t let him fall any further in the draft. Cincinnati will move on from Terrell Owens this offseason, and it is very likely they look to deal Chad Ochocinco as well. They will need a new big play receiver if they hope to stay competitive, as Carson Palmer (if he is there) can’t run the offense alone.

Feb. 1st update: Yes quarterback could be an issue if Palmer follows through with his trade demands, but I don’t think there is anyone worth taking at this spot.

5. Arizona Cardinals: DE/OLB Robert Quinn, North Carolina-

While a lot of people have the Cardinals taking a quarterback in the first round, I don’t think that is the direction they will look to go. I see Arizona looking to add a more veteran option and maybe drafting a QB in the mid-rounds. The Cardinals biggest need after quarterback is a pass rusher, and that is one need they can fill this April. There are some concerns with him since he was suspended for a rules violation this year, but he is a big time talent, and if he is in top shape this offseason he should be a top 5 guy.

pick change: Previous selection CB Patrick Peterson

6. Cleveland Browns: DE De’Quan Bowers, Clemson-

Previously I had the Browns reaching for a wide receiver with this pick and taking Julio Jones, but recent events make me believe they will go in a different direction. With the hiring of Dick Jauron, it is now pretty official that the Browns are heading to a 4-3 alignment, and right now they don’t have the personnel to handle the move. In particular they need to find help at defensive end, making De’Quan Bowers a fantastic selection for them. Bowers is the top rated player on my board, but he doesn’t fit nearly as well into 3-4 teams, and teams like the Panthers and Bengals don’t have a pressing need for a DE, allowing him to fall. The Browns would be wise to end that fall, as he has the potential to be the next Mario Williams or Julius Peppers. Although the Browns still need to add a big play receiver, I think they will look more towards the 2nd round and/or free agency.

pick change: previous selection WR Julio Jones

7. San Francisco 49ers: CB Patrick Peterson, LSU-

While the 49ers could be tempted by a quarterback, I think Peterson makes too much sense for them to pass up. Their secondary got pretty torched last season, and adding a play-maker like Peterson should help fix that problem immediately.  The 49ers could win the NFC West next year with just a few changes so adding guys who can help right away, compared to a developmental QB makes sense. With Peterson in the fold that defense should finally be as good as advertised. Quarterback is still and issue, and one that will likely be addressed in free agency (or via a trade) and a mid-round selection.

pick change: previous selection, QB Blaine Gabbert

8. Tennessee Titans: QB Blaine Gabbert, Missouri-

The Titans at this point could go in any direction, but it will be hard to gauge until they have a new coach in place. Despite the coaching change it looks as though Vince Young is on his way out. While that would have happened with Jeff Fisher at the helm, he was more likely to look for a more veteran fix (McNabb, Kolb, etc.), then go the rookie route. With a new staff in place it might be time to rebuild in Tennessee, making Gabbert a smart pick. While I don’t know if I’d label him a ‘franchise quarterback’, he does have the best combination of potential, talent, and likelihood of reaching it. Gabbert probably should start until at least mid-season, but he gives hope as a quarterback who can take pressure off Chris Johnson.

pick change: previous selection DE De’Quan Bowers

9. Dallas Cowboys: DT/DE Marcell Dareus, Alabama-

Previously I had the Cowboys selecting and offensive tackle here and I still believe that is on the short list, but now I believe they will target defensive line first (unless one of the top corner falls). Dareus will help fill in the void along the Cowboys line and help strengthen that unit to an elite level. The Cowboys do have bigger needs along the offensive line and in their secondary (both at CB and FS) so a trade back is likely, but if they stay there Dareus would be a great addition.

pick change: previous selection, OT Tyron Smith

10. Washington Redskins: DE/DT Cameron Jordan, California-

While a lot of people will try to ‘mock’ the Redskins a quarterback, that is not the direction this team should be going in. I could also see the Redskins as a prime team to trade back, given their vast needs and small number of picks, but I’m not predicting trades in this mock. The Redskins are likely to part ways with Albert Haynesworth this offseason, meaning their weakness along the defensive line goes from ‘major’ to ‘critical’. Jordan would help stop the bleeding from losing Haynesworth, and provide the Redskins with a true star along the line. In the 3-4 he profiles best as an end, and should automatically upgrade both the Skins rush defense and pass rush. Jordan was by far the most impressive player at the Senior Bowl last week, and impressed scouts each day with his talent. He would be a huge get for the Redskins at the 10th spot.

pick change: previous selection DE Marcell Dareus

11. Houston Texans: OLB/DE Aldon Smith, Missouri-

Houston will be in the midst of transitioning to a 3-4 defense, and with no corner back to take should focus this pick on grabbing a rush linebacker. Smith was a sack artist in college and should have no problem fitting into the Texans new defense as a rush linebacker.

pick change: previous selection OLB Von Miller

12. Minnesota Vikings: QB Cam Newton, Auburn-

I don’t believe Newton is a top 2o or even a top 15 pick, but I have a sneaky suspicion he will here his name called during that time, the the Vikings are the favorites to land him in my book. Minnesota will likely look to upgrade the position this offseason via trade or free agency, but don’t be surprised if they double-dip and take Newton as well. Minnesota needs a long term project at quarterback (Joe Webb doesn’t count), and Newton I think would really intrigue them.

Feb. 1st update: I realize there are some Vince Young to the Vikings rumors, but I still see Newton as the pick here until that happens.

13. Detroit Lions: OT Tryon Smith, USC-

I’m keeping with the theory that the Lions will use this pick on a LT. While a lot will depend on his combine and workouts, I’m a big believer in Smith and liked what I saw on film. If he shows he has the strength, he has the ability to be a top tackle in this league. What the Lions have done in terms of protecting (or not protecting) Matt Stafford is flat out insane. You spend $60 million on a guy and you put him in a situation where he can’t succeed and needs to run for his life. The Lions have to fix that this offseason and grabbing Smith would be a smart move. Detroit might have needs at LB and CB, but they are secondary compared to their need at offensive tackle.

pick change: previous selection OT Anthony Castonzo

14. St. Louis Rams: WR Jonathan Baldwin, Pittsburgh-

Most draftniks will say this is too high for Baldwin, but I think they are underselling him a bit. Baldwin has all the skills to be a number one wide receiver in this league and his addition should make Sam Bradford very happy. The Rams could look at some defensive options, but I think they stay the course and add the top WR on the board. While right now you can make a case of Julio Jones over Baldwin, I don’t think it is nearly as strong as most scouts make it out to be. I believe that Baldwin will separate himself during his workouts, and end up being the 2nd receiver in this class.

Feb 1st update: This pick will be either Baldwin or Jones unless the Rams grab a couple big receivers in free agency. They have to add weapons for Bradford and I don’t see them changing course.

15. Miami Dolphins: DE/OLB Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue-

While it is easy to mock the Dolphins a quarterback or running back considering their needs, Miami should be looking at a rush linebacker to compliment Cameron Wake. Kerrigan had a very successful career at getting to the quarterback with his hand down in college, and if he shows enough at workouts to make the transition outside he should be the Dolphins pick. If not Miami could go for another pass rusher, or turn their attention back to their offensive needs.

Kerrigan had a pretty good Senior Bowl week, and while it didn’t answer many of the questions about being able to stand up, he showed up at a good weight and looked pretty quick in drills. The question about converting into a LB isn’t fully answered, but it was a good first step for him.

Feb. 1st update: Still not buying a quarterback here or a running back. If for some reason Gabbert falls I could see him being taken, but no way Mallett or Locker get picked here. Ingram is a nice back, but not top 15 worthy. Dolphins should stay the course and strengthen that defense.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars: DE Adrian Clayborn, Iowa:

Clayborn was once thought to be a top 10 pick, but slipped some due to a poor senior campaign. Clayborn’s senior numbers weren’t entirely his fault as teams routinely double teamed him, and ran plays away from the powerful defensive end. Clayborn isn’t a dominate pass rusher, but he has the skills to get between 7-10 sacks a season. Clayborn will help continue to boost a Jacksonville pass rush that let them down when it mattered the most.

Feb. 1st update: Clayborn could be slipping and I nearly had him fall into the 20′s, but still have enough confidence to keep him here. Not participating in the Senior Bowl didn’t help his stock, and at this point unless he has an incredible combine I think the best he can hope for is being taken right here. The Jags could look corner or safety, but my guess is they stay with a lineman.

Redskins Officials Meet With Some Interesting Names At The Senior Bowl: Now just to be clear the Redskins will end up meeting with just about every player this week, but it is still interested to see who they are meeting with and when. Jake Locker has long been rumored to have the team’s interest and it makes sense from a need perspective, but not in the top 10. Locker very well could be the best quarterback from this draft class 5 years from now, but I don’t think he is top 10 material. Especially on a team with multiple other needs. I’d love to see Locker groomed by the Skins, but as a 2nd round pick and after the Skins trade back for more picks. As for some of the other guys they were seen meeting with Schilling and Brewer are both offensive linemen and make perfect sense for the Skins. Jones and Matthews are inside linebackers, which should be a need with McIntosh likely moving on. The one real surprise would be Lance Kendricks, who is a mid-round, tight end prospect. While this could mean Fred Davis is on the trade block, Kendricks is likely to be well off the board by the time the Redskins pick in the 5th round (he is projected as a 3rd-4th round guy, which are two rounds where the Skins don’t have picks). Even if the Redskins acquire extra picks in the mid-rounds, tight end doesn’t rank high enough on the need list to use a pick on. Brewer and Matthews are two of my favorite players at the Senior Bowl this week and two guys who should be able to start right away for the Skins, if they have the draft picks to add them.

Now $50 million may sound like a lot of money, but the Redskins have a lot of needs, so they can’t just sign all the top free agents to fix their problems. Yes, they can likely back load contracts and bring in more high end free agents, but that will only mess up their salary cap in the future (which was a big part of the reason why this team has been down of late). Here is a way to fix each one of their needs, as well as the links to each positional outlook.

Offensive Line Outlook
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends
Quarterbacks, Running backs, Fullbacks

Quarterbacks:

While the popular assumption is that the Redskins will look to draft a quarterback in the early rounds of April’s draft, but that would be a big mistake. While Quarterback is a major need for the Redskins, it is only one of many needs. Also, contrary to popular belief, quarterbacks need time to develop before they become effective starters. Sometimes their team’s still win a lot of football games, but that has more to do with the team being very good or great, than the young signal caller. If the Redskins waste one of their early picks (they only have a first and a 2nd, in the top 4 rounds), they will be very disappointed. They can’t afford to use one of their limited acquisitions on a player who can’t possibly help them next season. If the Redskins do trade back and stockpile additional 2nd, 3rd and 4th round picks, then I could maybe understand using an extra pick on a quarterback in the 2nd round, but before then is just irresponsible. My quarterback plan would be three-fold for the Redskins this offseason.

1st: Resign Rex Grossman – Sexy Rexy is by no means the answer for the Redskins, but he handled the job admirably at the end of the season on one of the worst teams in this league. As long as he doesn’t want big money, I have no issue with bringing him back as part of your stopgap solution.

2nd: Sign another Veteran, Preferably a Young Guy- While the Skins could go for a veteran backup like a Kerry Collins or a Billy Volek, I would look to bring on a young guy with a little upside. While a guy like Matt Moore or Alex Smith would have some starting experience and could just need a change of scenery, I’d like to see Coach Shanahan look outside the box. Dennis Dixon would be my target. He is young and has plenty of upside. His athleticism gives him an advantage and could be a benefit if he beats out Grossman.

3rd: Draft a Rookie- I’m not saying that the Redskins shouldn’t draft a quarterback, just that they should look to do so in the middle rounds (3rd-5th) after they have addressed more important needs first. Now as it stands the Redskins only have 2 middle round picks, and both are in the 5th round. But if the Redskins trade the right players and trade back in the first round, they could net a couple picks in each the 3rd and 4th rounds. Guys like Christian Ponder, Andy Dalton, Pat Devlin, Nathan Enderle, and Colin Kaepernick might not sit atop draft boards, but they all have the ability to play at the next level. Draft one of them and develop a quarterback for the future.

Fullback:

Mike Sellers simply shouldn’t be starting any longer, he is ineffective at blocking, rushing and receiving, giving him no redeemable quality on offense. While he could still stay around in a backup/Special teams role, the Redskins need to move on. Darryl Young did alright in limited action for the Skins this season, and he deserves a shot to be at least the backup, but I think the Redskins need to aim their sights a little higher. Here are a couple free agent options the Redskins should have their sights set on:

Le’Ron McClain: McClain is a great back, who really contributes to an offense, but the problem is he will probably want too many carries/receptions. I wouldn’t write him off just yet, as you should find a way to use him if he is willing to sign.

Vonta Leach: Leach is probably the best lead blocker in football, and the Texans won’t let him get away easy, but he is a classic fullback. He will clear lanes for our running backs and give our quarterback extra protection. The only thing he won’t do though is contribute much on offense. He’s not a great running and receiving option, which is a bit of a negative mark.

John Kuhn: Kuhn is the best of both worlds, he isn’t as dynamic as McClain in running or receiving, but he will get the tough yards when you call his number. While he isn’t as good as Leach in lead blocking, he is a smart player and gets the most out of his abilities. Kuhn shouldn’t break the bank, but will be well worth the cost. He is my top choice for Washington.

Check back later for the rest of the Redskins Offseason Plan!

Jammal Brown: The Redskins traded for the former All-Pro tackle this past offseason and received mixed results. Now the Redskins will need to decide if it is worth investing big money into Brown to lock him up longterm as he is an unrestricted free agent. Brown who was recovering from a hip injury, struggled mightily this past season early on, and also missed some time due to injuries. Over the last 4-5 games Brown improved tremendously and looked close to his former All-Pro self. While Brown showed some improvement, I’d be leery of investing big money in him especially with other free agent options available.

Stephon Heyer: Heyer was once again forced into a good amount of work with both starting tackles (Williams and Brown) missing time with injury. Heyer continued to show that he has no business ever lining up as a LT, but did show improvement from the right side. Heyer also showed versatility by playing nearly an entire game at guard due to injury, but he doesn’t seem like a longterm option there. With Heyer making over a million dollars this past season, and headed for a raise the Redskins need to move on and find better, and cheaper backup offensive linemen.

Selvish Capers: Capers was a 7th round pick for the Redskins last season, after a strong career at West Virginia. He was considered raw, but possessing future starting potential. He has the athletic build that would seem to fit the Redskins zone-blocking scheme. On the downside for Capers he never made it off the Redskins practice squad this season despite, their concerns at OT. While he has a shot of making the roster, he isn’t an option as the RT for next season.

Xavier Fulton: Fulton was a raw but impressive OT prospect in the 2009 NFL draft, where he was selected in the 5th round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He suffered a torn ACL injury during the 2009 preseason and was placed on injured reserve. He was cut by the Buccaneers at the beginning of this past season and was a journeyman for the rest of the season. The Redskins signed him to their practice squad at the end of the year and signed him for a future contract for the coming season. While he has almost no chance of being a starter, he does have upside and deserves a shot to compete for a backup role.

Derrick Dockery: Dockery was a high priced free agent signing two years ago, but he doesn’t fit well into Mike Shanahan’s zone blocking scheme. He is under contract for three more years, and it isn’t a horrible deal so the Redskins could look to trade him, but the return won’t be great. If they can’t work out a deal, I’m sure the Redskins will cut him so they can save some money.

Artis Hicks: Hicks represents the Redskins biggest free agent signing last year (which is emblematic of why this team is so bad), to compete for a starting job at guard, and be a backup tackle. While Hicks wasn’t horrible, he also didn’t show himself to be a capable starting offensive lineman this season. He is under contract for two more seasons, but he could be cut or traded, as he could save the Skins $1.5 million, that could be invested in a better replacement. If he does stick around he is no better than a backup offensive lineman and should by no means start next season.

Kory Lichtenstieger: Lichtenstieger was originally drafted by Shanahan with the Broncos a couple of seasons ago, and the Redskins brought him in to compete for an interior line job. He took over as the starting guard from Dockery early in the season, but the results were not pretty. Lichtenstieger struggled all season against bigger defensive tackles and blitzes up the middle. Not only did he blow plenty of blocking assignments, but he committed costly penalties. He could get a look as the starting center, but I’m not sure he will be any better there. If he is starting next season at guard the Redskins will have a major hole in their offensive line.

Will Montgomery: Montgomery, like Lichtenstieger wasn’t a starter at the beginning of the year, but ended the season as Washington’s starting guard. Montgomery is a solid backup center/guard, and could get a look as the starting center, but he really isn’t cut out to be a 16 game guard. Montgomery at his best is league average, meaning that even if he wins the starting center role the Redskins will be weak in the middle.

Erik Cook: Cook was another Redskins 7th round pick this past season. He can play either center or guard, but didn’t make the team out of training camp. He was on the practice squad until the very end of the season, but didn’t really make an impact on the Redskins. He will likely be in the mix for their open competition at guard(s) and center, but doesn’t seem like a real starting option for next season.

Casey Rabach: Rabach has been the Skins starting center for the last couple of seasons, but it became very apparent that he can no longer play at a starting level. Rabach had a horrible year for the Redskins this past season, and is pretty much guaranteed to be released this offseason.

Analysis: The Redskins have just one capable starter heading into next season, and they can’t hope to compete unless they improve (big time) at two positions (at least). While Brown could be an option to resign, he represents a risk and even when he played well the Redskins offense still struggled. He will need to improve greatly to be worth the investment, so the Skins could look to go in a different direction.

No one, including the Shanahans have pointed to Grossman and said he is our ‘Franchise’ quarterback. All that has been said and even hinted at is that Grossman knows the system better, therefore giving the Redskins a better chance to be successful, and that they are evaluating him for next year (to see if he can be a stopgap quarterback). Now sure they might make statements about Grossman able to be successful in this league, but what do you expect them to say? We have no quarterback depth and wasted a time and money on a washed up quarterback who set us back? I think it has been a pretty ‘honest’ (relatively speaking) and fair approach to Grossman. They aren’t rushing out to commit $70 million dollars, but they aren’t completely writing him off either.

McNabb apologists will point out that the Redskins weren’t any more successful with Grossman, and in fact his completion percentage is lower than McNabb’s. They will point out the high number of fumbles, which combined with the interceptions were very troubling. The Redskins only had one big scoring game under Grossman, and showed roughly the same stagnant offense they did earlier in the year.

While there are truths in all those points they ignore the obvious truth. When all you can say negative about Grossman is the fact that he was ‘no better’ than McNabb, then all you have done is lowered yourself to Grossman’s level, and the reality is Donovan McNabb is no better than Rex Grossman. McNabb who made over $16 million this season, and the team surrendered 2 draft picks to acquire played the same as a guy who the Redskins paid less than $1 million and signed off the street. If Grossman and McNabb offer similar production and results, the obvious choice is Grossman. Sure he will need to be resigned for more money, but it won’t even be a quarter of what McNabb makes. Considering the fact a salary cap is likely to be coming back into effect, Grossman is a far superior option to warm the seat while this team rebuilds.

While some of the numbers in the Grossman vs McNabb debate favor McNabb, Grossman just looks more confident back there and more sure of his reads. Sure Grossman throws his fair share of balls in the dirt or too high for the receiver, but he throws a lot more balls on target. Grossman has led, and hit receivers in stride much better than McNabb was. And while the turnovers were high, most of the fumbles were really on the offensive line, and two of those interceptions (Dallas game and yesterday) were because Mike Sellers ran the wrong route. While I’m not trying to be a Grossman apologist, there seem to be more mitigating factors than McNabb’s performance.

Now overall I think what both the McNabb and Grossman experience proved is that this isn’t a very good football team, and it doesn’t matter if you are a former Pro Bowler or a former draft bust, you can only have limited success. While Quarterback is high on this team’s list of needs, it is far from there biggest need this offseason. Despite adding talent to their receivers and running backs the Redskins have among the worst skilled position players in the league. Also, the Redskins offensive line continues to be one of the league’s worst and those are just their issues on offense. For them to go out there and draft a quarterback in the first round would be irresponsible and in no way quicken their road to respectability. While the quarterback position needs addressing, Washington first needs to build a team around him before he can be successful. Grossman might not be my first choice to keep the seat warm as the Redskins rebuild, but he is a fair option and a better one than McNabb.