What to expect from the Washington Redskins offensive rookies

Last week I took a look at the Redskins defensive rookie class, but this week with the start of training camp we will look at what the Redskins can expect from their offensive rookies. The primary focus will be on how the rookies can contribute in their first season, but a long term outlook is important as well.

2nd Rd- RB Derrius Guice:

-Guice was an absolute steal at the end of the 2nd round and could finally be the answer to the Redskins rushing woes of the past couple of seasons. Guice probably should have been the 2nd back taken in the draft and he has the potential to be a franchise feature back. He will primarily be a two down back this season, with Chris Thompson retaining his 3rd down role. Even with just a two down role, Guice has the talent to make an impact both as a runner and a receiver. Last year rookie Kareem Hunt only played 2/3 of the offensive snaps and he went on to lead the league in rushing with 1,300 yards and added another 450 receiving to go along with 11 total touchdowns. Guice could have a similar impact to Hunt in this offense, and should be a key weapon out in the Redskins offense for years to come.

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3rd Rd- OT Geron Christian:

-Christian was a bit of a surprise pick as the Redskins starters and depth at tackle appear solid on paper, but after last year’s rash of injuries the Redskins grabbed the raw tackle prospect in the 3rd round. The Louisville product, showed plenty of potential and physical ability that makes him look like a future starter in the NFL, but he’s also pretty raw. His technique and consistency leave a lot to be desired, and he looks to be a year or two away from really contributing. If the Redskins have a number of injuries again and he’s forced into duty too soon, he could struggle quite a bit. Long term though, Christian can be a quality swing tackle and may even be the heir apparent to Trent Williams if the star tackle decides to retire at the end of his current contract.

7th Rd- WR Trey Quinn:

-Though just a 7th round pick, Quinn’s roster spot and role seem pretty clear. Reports from the draft were that Jay Gruden wanted to draft Quinn a couple rounds earlier and was worried the Redskins would miss out on the SMU receiver. Quinn had a breakout year for the Mustangs after transferring from LSU where he was barely used. Last year at SMU though Quinn led the team catches (114), yards (1,236) and TDs (13), outproducing the highly touted Courtland Sutton. Quinn seems like a lock to make the Redskins given that he is the only other natural slot receiver on the roster behind Jamison Crowder. While he probably won’t see the field too often as a rookie he does have the long term potential of replacing Crowder, who is a free agent next season. Quinn also has some kick and punt returning potential and could earn some playing time that way as a rookie.

UDFA- OL Timon Parris:

-Parris was an All-Conference CAA selection the past two seasons at Stoney Brook and was considered by many to be a nice developmental tackle/guard prospect who was worthy of a day 3 selection. Parris is a big offensive lineman at 6’6″ 312 lbs with 34″ arms. While his technique is lacking at this time, his physical tools are pretty interesting. While probably a more likely option for the practice squad, the Redskins should have at least 2 relatively open back-up offensive line roster spots. If Parris shows enough in camp and preseason he could earn a spot for sure.

UDFA- RB Martez Carter:

-Carter is an interesting smaller back who played well at Grambling and contributed in a variety of ways. He has some speed and breakaway ability that definitely showcases itself out of the backfield and in the return game. Though a long shot for a roster spot, he does have the skill set to be considered a Chris Thompson back-up so his primary competition will be Kapri Bibbs and Byron Marshall if the Redskins want another 3rd down back behind Thompson.

UDFA- WR Simmie Cobbs:

-Cobbs is one of three intriguing un-drafted rookie receivers on the roster, along with Cam Sims and Shay Fields. All three have a little upside and potential, but Cobbs is the one who was considered a really draftable prospect. He had a strong, productive career at Indiana and played well versus some quality competition. He’s a bigger receivers with a 6’3″ frame that he knows how to use to his advantage. He’s not the most athletically gifted, but there is some potential here. Likely though with a crowded receiver depth chart the best he can do is earn a spot on the practice squad.

UDFA- TE Matt Flanagan:

-Flanagan was a graduate transfer to the University of Pittsburgh this past year where he put up career highs with 17 catches and 160 yards. What makes him interesting is what he do as an inline blocker and on special teams. At 6’6″ and 260 lbs, he would be the biggest tight end on the Redskins roster and given that they only have three tight ends set, Flanagan could potentially earn a spot as the fourth tight end if they want to have a more physical blocker in the TE group. Still probably a long shot to make the roster, Flanagan does offer something different from the other tight ends on the roster and that could be enough to earn him a roster spot.

Overall:

-Outside of Guice the Redskins aren’t likely to get much of an immediate impact out of their offensive rookies this season. It’s possible that Quinn is the 2nd most involved offensive rookie this year as Christian could end up being inactive a number of game days. Long term though Christian could be a valuable piece as well and Quinn could potentially be the starting slot receiver next year. The interesting question will be if any of the undrafted rookies make the team this year. Right now they all face pretty tough roads to a roster spot, but Parris probably has the best chance. Despite not