Last season, the Washington Redskins failed to follow up on their 2015 postseason berth with a division win. Instead, the franchise went 8-7-1 and finished third in the NFC East. With the Washington Redskins looking to make it back to the postseason in 2017, here are a few positions they must upgrade in order to contend.
Washington Redskins 2017 Off-Season: Top 3 Needs
Running Back
With the Redskins not completely sold on Matt Jones as their starter for the future, they should certainly try and acquire a new starting running back for the future. With this year’s draft having a plethora of solid options, they could opt to use their draft picks to acquire new talent. Players like Dalvin Cook and perhaps even Samaje Perine are possibilities for Washington. Both, especially Cook, have the potential to succeed at the NFL level from the start.
Another option for them could be through free agency. This year’s free agency class consists of several solid options, including Le’Veon Bell and Eddie Lacy. While Bell will likely be resigned by the Steelers, Lacy is a more likely option for Washington. As long as Lacy is not franchise tagged or signed to an extension, look for the Redskins to make a strong push for the former Pro Bowl running back.
Safety
The safety position was one of heavy uncertainty and inconsistency throughout 2016, and is in desperate need of improvement for 2017. While Su’a Cravens might switch to play safety instead of linebacker next season, the position still requires some improvement. Of course, Washington could go through the draft and take someone like Jabriil Peppers and play him at safety, but the more likely option for them will be via free agency.
Free agency is filled with several intriguing options, with Barry Church and Micah Hyde being two of them. Prying Church away from their division rival Dallas Cowboys would be a great move for the Redskins. Not only would they improve their defense with a solid starting safety, but they would also weaken their division rival in the process. On the other hand, Washington could go with Hyde, a safety who excels in every facet of the game. Hyde would be a phenomenal addition to the Redskins both as a safety and as a return specialist. With safety being such a pressing need, expect the Redskins to make a strong push for either of them.
Nose Tackle
Perhaps their biggest need, the Redskins need a major upgrade at nose tackle. With the draft lacking heavy talent at the position, Washington must go through free agency for a new starter. The most likely option will be the Eagles’ Bennie Logan. Like signing Barry Church, signing Logan would weaken a division rival and improve Washington’s chances of reaching the postseason. Logan is a phenomenal player who is a terrific run stuffer, which is exactly what the Redskins need. As long as Logan decides to test free agency, he should receive a very enticing contract offer from the Redskins to be their nose tackle for the future.
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