2014 NFL mock draft: Cyrus Kouandjio to Washington Redskins at No. 34

More than two years removed from a blockbuster trade that landed the No. 2 overall pick in 2012 -- ultimately used on Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III -- the Washington Redskins are without a first-round pick for the second straight year. We therefore welcome Ken Meringolo and Hogs Haven to the 2014 SB Nation NFL Writers Mock Draft festivities.

The Redskins may be in luck this year. Offensive tackle is their biggest need area entering the draft, and in a deep tackle class, they might just find a suitable bookend to left tackle Trent Williams at No. 34 overall. That’s the direction that Ken is taking the Redskins here.

“In Robert Griffin III, Alfred Morris, Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson, Andre Roberts and Jordan Reed, the Washington Redskins think they have the makings of a special offense. Unless the offensive line does its part, however, all of this could be wasted. Cyrus Kouandjio and Trent Williams would give the Redskins an impressive bookend tackle situation. Cyrus is an athletic pass protector, and his strength would open the right side for Alfred Morris in the running game. The Redskins’ offensive line got pushed around considerably last season, but with Kouandjio anchoring the right side, Jay Gruden should be able to be a lot more unpredictable with his play-calling.”

Anyone who selects Kouandjio is taking a calculated risk. Reports out of the NFL Combine were that he has an arthritic knee, leaving questions about his long-term health. Although Kouandjio and Dr. James Andrews disregarded those claims, they are out there. But what if whomever drafts Kouandjio can get five good years of play before the knee becomes an issue? By then, the pick would be considered a good one. Given Washington’s need at the position, and the drop-off after Kouandjio, this is a sound choice. It may even have more plausibility than other picks in this mock draft due to Andrews’ opinion given he is Washington’s team doctor.