Undrafted Free Agent Edition: 3 Questions with Doc Walker
With the 2019 NFL Draft in the books, Washington turned their focus to the undrafted free agent market, signing eight; Michigan OT Juwann Bushell-Beatty, Marshall DT Ryan Bee, McNeese State LB Bryan Blunt, Kansas University WR Steven Simms Jr, Duke WR TJ Rahming, Oregon TE Elkanah Dillon, Washington S JoJo McIntosh and Tennessee State OT Chidi Okeke.
Although the Redskins had a productive draft, there are still holes to fill. As soon as the draft concludes, teams turn their attention to the undrafted free agents available and the free-for-all begins. These players can be the foundation of a team and some even exceed expectations.
Two '18 undrafted free agents, in particular, have been projected to have roles this season in Cam Sims and Matt Flanagan. Additionally, two more names have emerged from this year’s class with Washington University safety JoJo McIntosh and Tennessee State OL Chidi Okeke looking to crack to the final 53.
The Burgundy and Gold Report recently had the opportunity to interview Inside the Locker Room host and Super Bowl XVII champion tight end Rick Doc Walker who believes that undrafted free agents are key to building a successful roster.
Burgundy and Gold Report:
With Montae Nicholson’s status in the air and the signing of UDFA JoJo McIntosh, have the Redskins done enough to address the depth at safety?
Rick Doc Walker:
“JoJo McIntosh played a lot of winning football at Washington. He seems to be a thumper! Not sure if he’s a nickel back or not but he’s smart and should be very good on special teams.”
As Walker mentioned, McIntosh's role could be a special teams’ contributor, but also has the ability to play in coverage, which is a plus. The former Washington University safety’s ability to lay the big hit make him an intriguing prospect to keep an eye on.
Burgundy and Gold Report:
The Redskins found success with undrafted OT Ty Nsekhe who was the definition of a journeymen. The Redskins didn’t draft a replacement for Nsekhe and have little depth beyond the injured Geron Christian. Although raw, the recent signing of Tennessee State Chidi Okeke could be an under the radar signing to watch. What are your thoughts on Okeke’s ability and is the current depth at offensive tackle a concern?
Rick Doc Walker:
“Chidi Okeke, Is my kind of guy! BIG and Aggressive. Lacks football experience because he only started playing football in 2013 was HS 4 star and went to LSU. If he stays healthy this OL Staff will give him a chance to develop the opportunity is there for him.”
As Walker mentioned, the LSU transfer is big & aggressive, which should help him find a spot as a reserve. Okeke's pro-ready frame at 6-5 315 lbs makes him an intriguing project. His natural ability and effective kick-slide could lead to a spot behind Morgan Moses. The inability to stay healthy along the o-line has led to inconsistencies and offensive breakdowns. Could Okeke be the needed depth at tackle that Washington lacks? Only time will tell, but he'll get coaching from one of the best in the business in Offensive Line/Assistant Coach Bill Callahan.
The Burgundy and Gold Report and Doc Walker share the same belief that undrafted free agents can be the lifeblood of a team.
The Burgundy and Gold Report:
Who has been your favorite UDFA signing by the Redskins, over the years?
Rick Doc Walker:
“My all time favorite UDF is #66 Joe Jacoby!! HTTR”
Although many undrafted free agents bounce from team to team, the right fit is paramount. McIntosh & Okeke fill positions of need, but only time will tell if they can carve out roles for themselves and last the long haul.
A special thanks to Rick Doc Walker for taking the time to discuss the Redskins undrafted free agents and sharing his thoughts on their potential contributions. With Rookie Minicamp on the horizon, stay tuned for more roster news and analysis.
By Adam Aniba
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