Washington Redskins Select Geron Christian in the 3rd Round - Tyler’s Take

I’ll be honest with you - I did not scout Geron Christian this offseason. I didn’t view offensive tackle as a big team need heading into the draft, and the only real homework I put in scouting offensive tackles, were for guys who could kick inside to guard in the NFL. Let’s be clear about Christian - he’s going to be an offensive tackle in the NFL.

After we had filled two HUGE needs with our first two picks, I was perfectly fine sitting back and “enjoying” who the Redskins selected with the newly acquired third round pick they received in a trade with San Francisco. I had a feeling they would go offensive line with this pick, but I didn’t expect Christian to be their selection.

Overall, I like the up-side of this pick.

Last year, we saw how injuries can effect the team - especially on the offensive line. We all know that having proven depth behind our starters is essential in the NFL. The position of swing tackle is very important. Look no further than last year, when the Redskins were forced to patchwork their offensive line due to multiple injuries that occurred throughout the season.

I’d love for our third round pick to be able to come in an immediately compete for playing time, but for Christian, he’s going to need some time before he’s ready to take on a prominent role in our offense.

First, despite excellent measurables, he’ll need to add some functional playing strength to his massive frame. He has long arms (35”) and huge hands (10 3/4”), but he lacks the initial pop needed to jar defensive linemen at the point of attack off the snap. He does show good leg drive and the ability to roll his hips into his defender, but he’ll need to work on staying a bit lower in his stance, and not just rely on his length to “steer” defenders. He has the frame to be able to carry an extra 10-15 pounds of good weight without losing any athleticism.

Second, Christian does show very light feet for a big man. He plays with excellent balance, and always seems to be under control. He will need to hone his technique a bit, and learn to shoot his hands a bit better to neutralize his defender. Once he cleans this area up, he can then use that great length even more effectively, instead of over-relying on it to compensate for better technique.

Finally, I love that he was a three year starter who has experience playing both offensive tackle positions. The Redskins will likely only have swing tackle Ty Nsekhe for another year or two, and there is a very realistic possibility that Ty is given every chance to win the starting left guard spot this training camp. This could force Christian into a more prominent role a bit earlier than expected. Being that he’s comfortable playing on either side, his transition into our swing tackle position could be that much easier.

I have been saying all offseason that I believe that Ty Nsekhe could be moved inside to left guard. He played there some last year, and I thought he did a pretty solid job. The drafting of Christian only helps to re-enforce my belief that this move will indeed happen.

If Geron can come in and learn from coach Callahan and the established veterans on this team, he may be a guy the Redskins look to, to eventually replace Trent Williams in a few years. Development will be key for him, but he has the tools to become an excellent player in time.