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News | Washington Commanders - Commanders.com

In Draft, Redskins Could Put It On O-Line

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The Redskins' offensive line is set at the top of the depth chart, but each starter is over the age of 30.

The youngest is left tackle Chris Samuels, who turns 31 in late July, while the oldest is guard Pete Kendall, who turns 35 in July. Even top backups Jason Fabini and Todd Wade are older than 30.

The Redskins need an influx of youth along the offensive line, including players who can develop into long-term starters.

That's where the NFL Draft comes in.

The Redskins select No.21 in the first round, but they also have a second-round pick and two third-rounders.

The team is looking for versatile linemen who can play either guard-tackle or guard-center.

Here are some of the top offensive line prospects available in the NFL Draft (listed in no particular order):

Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

Clady could be drafted well before the Redskins select at No. 21 because he is expected to be an immediate NFL starter. Clady is a 6-6, 319-pounder who some have compared to Chris Samuels. He is a converted defensive tackle who earned All-American honors each of his three seasons at Boise State.

Jake Long, OT, Michigan

Long is expected to be a top 15 draft pick--perhaps even the top overall pick. He comes from a school that has produced top-notch linemen, including Jon Jansen. The 6-7, 325-pounder is expected to be a top-tier right tackle in the pros.

Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

Williams turned in an impressive Senior Bowl and saw his draft stock rise as a result. The 6-6, 320-pounder is expected to be a solid left or right tackle. He could slip to the Redskins at No. 21, but it's unlikely.

Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

In years past, the Redskins have done well drafting offensive linemen from Pitt--Mark May and Russ Grimm are two examples. Otah played left tackle for the Panthers, but given his 6-6, 340-pound frame, he could be slotted at right tackle or guard in the professional ranks.

Branden Albert, OL, Virginia

Albert started three years at left guard for the Cavaliers, earning All-American third-team honors last year. He has the versatility to play either guard or tackle in the pros. Albert, a native of Glen Burnie, Md., stands at 6-6 and 309 pounds.

Mike McGlynn, OL, Pittsburgh

McGlynn played both guard and tackle in his four years at Pitt. His size, at 6-4 and 309 pounds, is thought to be a good fit for guard, but his skills may translate better to tackle.

Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

Cherilus, 6-7 and 315 pounds, started 37 consecutive games at right tackle from 2004-06, but he moved to left tackle last year. He struggled in pass protection and with penalties, but he has solid technique that should help him become a solid starter in the pros.

Duane Brown, OL, Virginia Tech

Brown converted from tight end to offensive tackle in his sophomore season. The 6-4, 314-pounder started three years at right tackle, earning second-team All-ACC honors, and then switched to left tackle in his senior season. Despite some struggles in pass protection at left tackle, Brown earned second-team All-ACC honors again.

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