Pro Football Draft Network | 2012 Pro Football Draft Analysis

1^st Round (#2) QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

3^rd Round (# 71) G Josh LeRibeus, SMU

4th Round (#102) QB Kirk Cousins, Michigan State

4^th Round (#119) OLB Keenan Robinson, Texas

5^th Round (#141) G Adam Gettis, Iowa

6^th Round (#173) RB Alfred Morris, Florida Atlantic

6^th Round (#193) OT Tom Compton, South Dakota

7^th Round (#213) CB Richard Crawford, SMU

7^th Round (#217) CB Jordan Berstine, Iowa

Analysis of Notable Selections:

Robert Griffin III: The quarterback position has never been more important then in today’s NFL.  The league is geared toward offense and nothing puts points on the board faster than productive quarterback play.  Carolina’s offense went from abysmal in 2010 (averaged 12 points per game) to good in 2011 (averaged 25 points per game) primarily because of the quarterback play (Jimmy Clausen in 2010 and Cam Newton in 2011).  The Redskins gave up a lot to move up and draft RG3. It will all be worth it if he develops into a top 10 quarterback.   The 2011 Heisman Trophy winner is extremely talented and has the work ethic and character to develop into a star.  It is up to the franchise to tailor an offense that maximizes Griffin’s skills and surround him with enough talent to succeed.

Josh LeRibeus: The SMU guard had a solid senior season after getting in the best shape of his collegiate career.  However, he is an average athlete who may struggle with the quickness found in the NFL.  LeRibeus fills a team need for improved interior offensive line play.  He was not the best available player at this point in the draft.  The Skins passed on Brandon Taylor who could have helped them at safety.  In addition, an offensive lineman such as, Joe Looney, might have been a better choice than LeRibeus.

Kirk Cousins: RG3 does not have a big frame and his mobility will result in him taking additional punishment.  It would be wise for the Redskins to have a quality backup at the game’s most important position.  Rex Grossman is 31 and has no upside.  Cousins does not project to be a quality starter in the NFL, but could be an ideal backup.  The former Michigan State star will be well prepared every week and is a team player.  Cousins is a very bright player and commands respect with his dedication to the game and the quality person that he is.  In addition, if Cousins plays well in the pre-season or in limited regular season action then he could be trade bait in a year or two.  There is always a team that will take a chance on a young quarterback.   Grossman does not provide Washington down the road with a potential trade for a decent draft pick.  The Redskins have gone from really having no answer at quarterback to well stocked in one draft.

Keenan Robinson: The Redskins add a versatile linebacker (can play inside or outside) with coverage skills.  Robinson can contribute on special teams as he works to gain strength and become more physical.  Robinson may never take on blocks well enough to start, but could find a niche on 3^rd down passing situations.  He has the size and quickness to drop into coverage and cover tight ends and backs.

Adam Gettis: Mike Shanahan wants mobile, tough and smart offensive linemen.  Gettis is undersized and has an injury history.  However, he can move and when finally healthy in 2011 had a good season.  He fits the Redskins’ blocking scheme, but will have to add solid weight and stay healthy to contribute.

2012 NFL Draft Grade: B+

Bottom Line: Washington’s draft essentially comes down to Griffin III.  The Redskins were desperate for a playmaker at quarterback and aggressively got their man.  They gave up a lot (2^nd round pick in 2012 and a 1^st rounder in 2013 and 2014), but no one will care if RG3 goes to several Pro Bowls.  RG3 is a major talent who fits well what Shanahan wants to do on offense.  His work ethic, competitiveness and fine character should enable him to develop into one of the top quarterback in the NFL.  Washington added three developmental types of offensive linemen to help support their new quarterback.  If they hit on one of them it will help.  The Redskins have a long way to go, but they may have solved their biggest hurdle to success with the selection of Robert Griffin III.