The Washington Redskins finally addressed a five year problem when they drafted offensive tackle Trent Williams out of Oklahoma University. Williams is known for his athleticism and ability to get to the second level when blocking. The second level is when a lineman can get to the linebackers and cornerbacks when the team is running the rock.
New Head Coach Mike Shanahan is famous for his zone-blocking schemes, and the Redskins believe Williams is a better fit for the system than now Seattle Seahawks left tackle Russell Okung. Okung was the top rated left tackle in the draft and is known for his dedication to the game, and extremely sound technique. Williams, however, is not known for his dedication to the game. When you have a top five pick in the draft, you better make sure the guy you are taking is the real deal. When you pass up the real deal, you will regret it for years to come. The Redskins better hope Williams doesn't live up to his reputation as a lazy, undedicated player.
The Redskins used a pick on LB Perry Riley. Riley should be a solid player for the team, but he may not make an immediate impact. The other players drafted by the Redskins were taken in the later rounds, which screams special teams or project type players. Let's be honest, with Shanahan and Bruce Allen's draft records, there is reason to be skeptical of anybody the Redskins pick from here on out.
The Redskins did technically get a second round pick when they traded for QB Donovan McNabb. McNabb is a definite upgrade over the now Oakland Raiders QB Jason Campbell, but it remains to be seen how the team does with him at the helm. Teams don't just trade in their own division without knowing something first. If the Redskins win more than seven games this year, they should look at it as a successful season. Taking a left tackle in the first round, even if they did take the wrong guy, is a step in the right direction.
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