Redskins Positional Analysis: Quarterbacks

The Redskins did the unthinkable this season and not acquire a big name quarterback via the draft, trade or free agency. Instead they are planning on going with incumbents Rex Grossman and John Beck. Now this quarterback duo won’t mean much for Fantasy Football purposes, but it can be an effective short term option for the Redskins.

John Beck:

Beck is a former 2nd round draft pick, who was buried and dumped by the Dolphins after one season after a coaching change in Miami. He never got a chance to play in Baltimore behind Joe Flacco, and was the Redskins 3rd quarterback last year. He turns 30 this season, so it is basically now or never for him, but he isn’t without some positives. Beck has good arm strength and decent mobility, and he is considered a hard worker. The biggest question will be how his decision making is, and if he can read what the defense is doing.

Beck is probably behind in the QB battle as he has missed some practice time and he isn’t as familiar with the system, but he has the better skill set and potential. While he might not start the season as the starter, it wouldn’t be surprising at all if he ends up being the top QB before the year is out.

Rex Grossman:

Grossman despite his previous Super Bowl run, has not lived up to his first round pedigree. At the same time that doesn’t mean he can’t be a good caretaker for the Redskins quarterback position while they look to rebuild. Grossman knows the system, and like John Beck has displayed good leadership. He lacks great arm strength and touch, but he’s ahead of Beck when it comes to reading the defense and the pressure. He is confident in this system, and it doesn’t force him to win games based solely on his arm. The biggest issue with Grossman is ball security. Last season Grossman was turnover happy (though a couple weren’t his fault) and it doesn’t bode well given his history for an entire season.

It appears likely that Grossman will be the starter come game one, but he should be challenged all year by Beck.

Talent Level:

Compared to the rest of the league, the Redskins aren’t in a good position when it comes to their QB talent level this season and going forward. The Redskins should rank well into the bottom third of the league when it comes to quarterback play, and the bad news for them is they don’t have much future upside either.

Outlook:

While some fans might still have angst over the Redskins decision to not add a quarterback, it is the smart move for the team. Their talent level might not be too high at QB, but by trading back in the draft the Redskins added a ton of depth, including at both the RB and WR positions. That was in addition to adding an impact prospect in OLB Ryan Kerrigan. It could be a long season at QB for the Redskins, but hopefully it will be a far better one at a few other positions.