NFL Draft

Washington Redskins Draft Profile: Arik Armstead, DE, Oregon

Hogs Haven writer Justin Byram takes a look at Oregon prospect Arik Armstead, and how he would fit with the Washington Redskins.

By Justin_Byram Mar 2, 2015, 7:00am EST

Arik Armstead

Oregon

Defensive End

6'7"

292 pounds

Arik Armstead is a freak athlete. Armstead gave up his career on the hardwood because he liked the physicality of football. Armstead possesses an elite combination of size and speed, and has the perfect skill set to be a dominate 3-4 defensive end. However, Armstead's production did not match his ability during his time at Oregon. Team's including Scot McCloughan and the Redskins need to determine whether there is untapped potential, that just needs coached up, or if Armstead is simply an underachiever.

Strengths:

Armstead is a fluid athlete, with good burst off the line of scrimmage, also uses long arms with a solid initial punch to keep lineman from controlling him. Plays tall while rushing, which allows him to get his hands up to disrupt passing lanes. Has the athletic ability to be effective using many different pass rushing moves, while powerful enough to succeed using power.

Weaknesses:

The production simply isn't there. When you're as physically gifted as Armstead, you have the ability to take over games, and that simply hasn't been the case. While watching his film, there are plays where it feels like he disappears. Can be controlled by double teams (which opens up matchups for others).

Here, Armstead shows his ability, using his power and arm length to simply blow the guard (an NFL prospect himself, Tre Jackson) off the line off scrimmage, and straight into the quarterback.

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The Bottom Line:

Armstead is a physically imposing player who would add some youth and depth to the Redskins defensive line that could certainly use it. Armstead will likely go in the first round, but would be a reach at number five overall. However, Armstead could be a prime target for the Redskins if they do indeed opt to trade back in the first round.