When the Washington Redskins traded Trent Williams, resolving a year-long standoff, they created a huge question mark at left tackle. Now, there may be a glimpse into the team’s plan, at least initially. According to ESPN’s John Keim, the Redskins are expected to give third-year pro Geron Christian the chance to become the starting left tackle.
Christian is a free agent after 2021 and they want to know whether he can be more than a swing tackle. If he can be, it alters their future search at this position. If not, they can find one next offseason. And if Christian or others struggle in training camp, they could pivot from their current thinking.
John Keim, ESPN
Christian was a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the previous Redskins’ regime. At the time, he was more of a project whom they hoped could replace Ty Nsekhe as the swing tackle. Now, the new regime headed by first-year head coach Ron Rivera, will hope he can replace Williams as the starting left tackle.
Surely, the notion of Christian protecting the blindside of quarterback Dwayne Haskins will be met with skepticism. Christian has not displayed anything on the field that would give fans confidence as a capable full-time starter.
As Keim alluded to, Christian may benefit from the focus on one position. He has had his snaps spread out at left tackle, right tackle and special teams. Christian started two games last season — one at left tackle and one at right tackle. If he could secure the spot, he scratches off a position of need the team would have to address next season.
It’s looking less likely they would turn to a veteran free agent such as Jason Peters as a short-gap solution. Peters is 38 years of age, and he wouldn’t factor into the team’s long-term plans.
Last season sat behind then-36 year old Donald Penn. Penn wasn’t terrible but he wasn’t outstanding either. And the Redskins found themselves still looking for an answer at left tackle with Williams out of the picture.
The Redskins also drafted Saahdiq Charles in the fourth round this year. He idolized Williams. However, he will be worked out at guard initially, according to Keim.
Things change, but Christian will get the opportunity to prove he can be a starting left tackle. If not, the Redskins will know they need to move on and find another avenue to solve one of their biggest question marks.
