PFF: Redskins have the 12th worst roster in the NFL

Pro Football Focus released their annual list ranking the rosters of every NFL team through E$PN IN$IDER, and they do not have the Washington Redskins ranked very highly. The Redskins have the #21 roster this year. PFF takes the rankings from the previous two years and averages them with this year's roster rankings, along with other considerations to make their list.

They have not been high on the Redskins roster, and that isn't exactly a surprise for the last few years. In 2014, the Redskins roster ranked 26th, and in 2015 they ranked 27th. While they were ranked one spot lower last year, they were able to improve their record by 5 wins(9-7), and win the NFC East.

A winning season, and two offseason's under GM Scot McCloughan has improved their rankings slightly. McCloughan had a lot of work to do with a team that had a combined 7 wins over the two seasons before he was hired. Special teams were a mess, depth was thin, and there were upgrades needed everywhere. Expect the Redskins to get more respect in offseason rankings if McCloughan continues to build a competitive team, and the Redskins can put together consecutive winning seasons.

21. Washington Redskins

Top five players: OT Trent Williams, CB Josh Norman, TE Jordan Reed, DE Chris Baker, OLB Ryan Kerrigan

Starters who should be upgraded: OC Kory Lichtensteiger, LB Perry Riley, LB Mason Foster

Washington landed one of the coups of the offseason when Norman unexpectedly became available in April. He adds a legitimate elite-level coverage player to a secondary that has shown ability, particular in the development of Bashaud Breeland. The Redskins' front seven has several good players, and overall this defense could be an impressive unit in 2016.

On offense, Kirk Cousins cemented himself as the starter at quarterback, and there is enough talent for this team to be very good. Rookie wideout Josh Doctson has the ability to become an elite target, but he'll need time. The only major issue is in the middle of the offensive line, where Lichtensteiger was poor and banged up in 2015, causing major problems to the offense as a whole. The Redskins could move up this list rapidly if he can find his best form again, or if they can find an upgrade.

• The Redskins roster would likely be ranked higher if this list was just based on this year's roster, but would still be middle of the pack.
• Trent Williams has always been one of the highest rated players on the Redskins roster by PFF, and is once again listed as a Top 5 player.
• Chris Baker is a mild surprise as a Top 5 player, but played very well last season.
• Shocking statement: Kory Lichtensteiger should be upgraded.
• Josh Norman is an instant upgrade to the Redskins secondary, and will pair nicely with Bashaud Breeland
• PFF thinks the Redskins defense could be impressive this year. The pass rush will be improved if Junior Galette returns to form, but the defensive line needs to prove itself.
• They are not a fan of two of the Redskins starters at inside linebacker from last season, Perry Riley and Mason Foster. There will be plenty of competition at the position with free agent signings, draft picks, and returning players.
• NFC East rankings: 5) Eagles(ha), 12) Cowboys, 21) Washington, 25) Giants.