Redskins Should Offer a Draft Pick for Sheldon Richardson

Defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson was a former first round pick(number 13 overall) by the Jets in the 2013 NFL Draft. For as productive on the field as he has been in his young career, he seems to be on his way out of New York sooner rather than later. The talented, yet troubled defender has registered 241 combined tackles, 18 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, and 6 passes defended over his four year career. He's also been suspended twice by the NFL.

Richardson is a stout 6'3" 294 pounds, and at just 26 years old, is in the prime of his career. He's a beast against the run, and uses a quick get-off, combined with violent hands, to force his way into the backfield and make life hell for opposing quarterbacks. He would be a great option for the Redskins at 3-4 defensive end in their base, and could kick inside in nickle to rush the passer from the 3-technique.

Sheldon would immediately become the Redskins best defensive linemen on what is a very questionable defensive front. His presence alone could turn a weakness into a strength, and when teamed with newcomers Stacy McGee and Terrell McClain, the Redskins defensive could take on a whole new more disruptive run-stuffing identity.

The recent trade of Ravens former second round defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan to the Eagles, in what was essentially a swap of third round picks(allowing the Ravens to move up 25 spots in the third), may significantly lower the Jets asking price for Richardson(it was rumored they were asking for a first round pick last year at the trade deadline). If the Redskins were to offer their third round pick for Richardson, would it be enough to get a deal done?

What could be difficult is absorbing Richardson's $8 million contract for 2017, and knowing there is a possibility he could be a very expensive one-year rental. It would be important for the Redskins to negotiate a contract extension that would include some protection for them if Richardson were to get suspended again.

In the grand scheme of things, Richardson for a third round pick could be a huge get for the Redskins. They would be trading away that third for a guaranteed starter in his prime, and a defensive tackle who is scheme diverse. There is absolutely no guarantee that any draft pick in the third round would have an impact this season, and it's almost certain that none would have the impact that a player like Richardson would have on this defense.

It's a buyers market right now, and it makes sense for the Redskins to at least approach the Jets with an offer for their talented, disgruntled star.