Monday, May 10, 2004

Sean Taylor was absolutely the right choice for the Redskins. Kellen Winslow II was the only other possibly candidate but the fact that the Redskins drafted Chris Cooley (who had an outstanding college career) as their H-back of the future should be more than adequate. If Taylor can have the same impact that Cowboys safety Roy Williams has had in his first two years, or that Ed Reed (Taylor's predecessor at Miami) is having, then the Redskins are in phenomenal shape.

The decision on Taylor over Winslow was summarized eloquently by Joe Gibbs. Taylor will be able to help to the team in more ways. I am not only glad because of Taylor's better fit but also because of Winslow's immaturity. If Taylor lives up to his potential, he can affect every defensive snap.

1. Taylor is that defensive stopper that should nullify the Shockeys and Chad Lewises of the world.
2. Taylor allows SS Matt Bowens to play closer to the line to often put 8 men in the box to stop the run.
3. He's also that presence that should provide the coverage support over the top for Smoot and Springs, making up for the loss of Champ Bailey. From what I've read, he's more of a ballhawk than the rest of the secondary so having Taylor available to run the ball back the other way is exactly what the defense (and the offense) needs.

Now the Redskins biggest need is a pass-rushing threat at DE. If the DE's don't provide enough pressure, it will be up to Arrington and/or Washington to do so.