NFL First Round Mock Draft, Seahawks get defensive
By Dan Viens
Pick #21: Washington Redskins – A’Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
The Redskins were one of the surprises of the 2015 NFL season, finishing with a 9-7 record and winning the NFC East. In the process they discovered they indeed DID draft their franchise QB in 2012, but it was third round pick Kirk Cousins instead of 2nd overall selection Robert Griffin III. Cousins is set to become a free agent, but given how well he played, Jay Gruden and company will certainly look to slap the franchise tag on him if they can’t agree to a long term deal.
Where Washington now needs help, in spades, is on the defensive side of the ball where they ranked 28th in the league in yards allowed per game (380.6). Upgrades are needed everywhere, but they can start up front with Alabama tackle A’Shawn Robinson. Described by one scouting service as “built like a vending machine,” Robinson is a 6’3″ 312 pound boulder.
His sheer combination of strength, both in his upper body and his base, allows him to get great push in the run game and handle multiple gaps. Yet he still has enough quickness and balance to penetrate and help collapse the pocket on passing plays. His Crimson Tide teammate Jarran Reed won’t be too far behind him in this draft, but Robinson has more upside and is a smart pickup here for the Redskins.
Next: On the clock: Houston