Is the Redskins slow start in free agency really that big of a concern?

As Washington headed into the 2018 free agency period, there were clear-cut positions of need that seemingly be easily addressed before the draft. The re-signing of critical pending free agents, mainly Zach Brown was huge for Washington, along with trading for Alex Smith and adding a weapon on the outside in Paul Richardson. Addressing holes on either the offensive or defensive line, however, lessens the burden of drafting at positions of need, and puts the focus on the best player available overall. The Redskins may still choose that method of drafting, who knows, but a few days into the free agency period points to a draft that may hinder the opportunity to go the more desired route.

It is evident though that the Redskins has made an effort, by the number of players they have brought in for visits this offseason. The knock on them though has been the players leaving without signing. Is that all bad? No, the outside does not know how the visit went, and if the staff felt the player would be a good fit for the team. The Redskins also have to decide if the player were worth the funds, and the player has to decide if Washington is the right fit for him. We simply do not know, and it is not the end of the world. Also, details may come out down the road that gives us more insight on visits and how the organization was thinking, but the point remains that the Redskins efforts are clear as day here.

The Redskins have missed out on a couple of key free agents they reportedly had interest in already, leaving ex-Colts and Giants DT Jonathan Hankins and now ex-Titans DT Sylvester Williams up for consideration. Jonathan Hankins presents the most upside, which should be the preferred route, and reportedly is. To make this offseason to this point anything over a solid B, beefing up the defensive line with premium talent is a must. Will Washington be willing to pay for Hankins? We will find out.