With the 112th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Redskins selected Arie Kouandjio, OG, Alabama. After picking Brandon Scherff in the first round, the Redskins are showing commitment to shoring up the offensive line. Let's have some fun and project Best Case, Worst Case, and Most Likely Scenarios for the guard from Alabama.
Best Case:
Arie Kouandjio comes from one of the best programs in college football. Alabama is known for producing big, strong lineman who provide excellent protection for their quarterbacks. Arie played left guard in Tuscaloosa. Over 27 consecutive games with the Crimson Tide, Kouandjio allowed just two sacks. The best cases scenario would be a plug and play situation. Arie comes into camp and earns a starting position next to Trent Williams to give Griffin consistent protection. The offensive line has been a problem for the Redskins for many years. If Arie can make an immediate impact, that would be the best case scenario for the team.
Worst Case:
There is definitely a worst case scenario when looking at Arie Kouandjio. He has undergone multiple surgeries to repair both knees while at Alabama. The worst case scenario for the Redskins would be another knee injury for Kouandjio. A serious knee injury could be the end of Arie's football career. It would also leave the left side of the offensive line right where it was last year. And that's definitely the worst case scenario.
Most Likely Case:
The most likely scenario for Kouandjio and the Redskins is one where he is groomed to be a long-term solution for the left guard position. By easing him into the guard spot, it will acclimate him to the speed of the NFL and at the same time minimize the wear and tear on Kouandjio's knees.
Arie Kouandjio has the potential to be an anchor on a new, strong offensive line. He is a big, intelligent, consistent lineman with the ability to protect the quarterback. If he can stay healthy, he can make a huge impact in DC.