Quote:
Originally Posted by Redskin Jim
Very logical points, I agree. We need to shore up the lines, which is a major weakness on both sides of the ball. Plus the learning curve will be a bit quicker than a skill position such as QB or WR.
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Another MAJOR reason we should not use a pick on a QB.
Reinforce the line and if we really need a new QB after this season, get him next season.
Who knows, if McNabb is not running for his life and being smashed into a fine powder every game, maybe he'll put up the numbers he has in the past.
He was running VERY well early in the season. We were all commenting on how he looked better than he has for years. Then he developed a distinct limp, then he was pulled altogether. I do believe his health and lack of protection had a major role in his decline. Early in the year, the Texans game especially, he was hitting deep balls (which require time and protection) with ease. Later, he was running for his life.
Trent Williams did a great job protecting him on that side, but the rest of the line needs attention like we gave LT last draft. Center is a must-upgrade, that's where many of his hits came from, right up the middle...even he wasn't being tripped by Rabach.
The same will apply to Grossman...look at how quickly he was hit on that disastrous debut against Suh. Sure, a QB should not hand off the ball to a defensive lineman, but he had no time to react. He played well later on, so he does have a good grasp of the system and with protection and time, I think we could minimize the "Rex plays" and like the Bears, win in spite of him.
A better line will also enable Shanahan to implement his greatest weapon, his running game, which will put less pressure on Rex or Donovan.
I say, get the best available O-lineman at #10...no matter the position! Even another LT-quality tackle can be used on either side and Trent has experience at both ends in college. A guard or center at #10? Who cares about draft history, it's what we need.
With the uncertainty about FA this year, teams should take the exact opposite approach as normally: instead of taking the best available player, drafting for needs and filling holes will need to take precedence. We have specific needs and we should make sure we fill them for sure, not knowing if/when/how FA signings will happen. We should not count on FA this year, lets plug the holes and get these guys rostered now. I know they can't work out with coaches, but nothing will stop them from attending London Fletcher's "non-team, unofficial, pick-up game mini-camps" and working out with the guys voluntarily.
You're welcome, I'll gladly accept this post of the month award.
(The WaPo made a big mistake not signing me up as their fan blogger last year!)