Grading the Washington Redskins Draft Class
*These grades are based on production, potential, and where the player was drafted
Round 1 QB Robert Griffin III: Grade A
-Griffin was even better than advertised and put the team on his back down the stretch propelling them to their first NFC East Title since 1999. Griffin showcased himself as both a tremendous passer and runner, but injuries keep this from being an A+. Griffin suffered both his 2nd concussion (with in a year) and 2nd ACL injury this season giving at least some pause to the future. While it didn’t affect the play this past year that much overall, it’s unclear just how effective he can be going forward.
Round 3 OL Josh LeRibeus: Grade C-
-LeRibeus got a little work late in the year with a mixed bag of results. For the most part though he spent his time on the inactive list making him one of the least productive third rounders from last year. He should get first crack at Kory Lichtensteiger‘s left guard spot, but its far from certainty.
Round 4 QB Kirk Cousins: Grade B+
-Cousins got more work this past year than the Redskins hoped, but on the plus side he was pretty productive when called upon. There were some struggles, but he was put in some poor late game situations and his lone start was on the road. Cousins showed a lot of promise and right now with Robert Griffin‘s status up in the air, could be the Redskins starter at the beginning of next season.
Round 4 LB Keenan Robinson: Grade C+
-Robinson had a nice year as a special teamer and spot duty linebacker, before missing the final 6 weeks due to injury. He may take over the starting ILB duties when London Fletcher hangs them up (possibly even this season), and could be very valuable given his pass coverage ability. At worst he’s a good back-up special teamer going forward.
Round 5 OG Adam Gettis: Grade C
-Gettis made the team out of camp, but was on the inactive list every week. He was a project all along, but it’s unclear what the future holds for him.
Round 6 RB Alfred Morris: Grade A+
-Morris had a fantastic rookie year finishing 2nd in the league in rushing. He displayed power and vision, and next to RGIII he was the biggest reason for the Redskins turnaround this past season. He looks to have a bright future ahead of him, and no one gave higher draft value compared to where they were picked than him last season.
Round 6 OT Tom Compton: Grade C-
-Compton was cut out of training camp, and while he was eventually added to the 53 man roster he never saw a single snap. He even didn’t get much consideration when Tyler Polumbus was injured and Jordan Black was suspended. He’ll be given a shot to earn at least a back-up role this year, but overall he’s got a long road up ahead of him.
Round 7 CB Richard Crawford: Grade C+
-Crawford had a big preseason and earned some playing time this past year. While he struggled some, he showed some minor flashes that gives hope that in a year or two he could compete for a top three spot. Crawford also showed nice return ability late in the year.
Round 7 S Jordan Bernstein: Grade C
-Despite the fact that Bernstein was lost for the year with an injury, the fact that he made the team at all as a 7th rounder gives him a C grade. His upside/potential is limited, but he could compete for a back-up spot this year.