2015 NFL mock draft: La’el Collins to Washington at No. 5

Where to go with this pick in our 2015 NFL mock draft? Ken Meringolo of Hogs Haven had a plethora of pass rushers to choose from, but he’s leaning in a different direction entirely.

Meringolo: Washington has boned up its defensive line in free agency, perhaps shifting some need to the offensive side of the line of scrimmage. I was prepared to wrestle internally with selecting Leonard Williams, but with him gone, I am targeting the offensive line.

Washington has attempted to be the smartest guys in the room on too many draft days, selecting the best offensive lineman left in lower rounds -- a strategy that has left our cupboard pretty bare. It is time for us to decide who we think is the best offensive lineman in this draft and put him on the field. From the ground game to the pass game, from protecting whichever quarterback we suit up (serenity now!) to helping Jay Gruden implement and execute his schemes, an investment in the offensive line is imperative. This pick will be called a reach by some, but it adds to an offseason spent rebuilding the trenches. It helps put a foundation in place that the team can build a future contender around. As the home of the Hogs, we take our offensive line seriously in Washington, and it is way past due to dedicate top resources to this precious unit.

Dan Kadar, SBNation.com: This pick is sort of ironic considering that the best comparison for Collins is Trent Williams, Washington’s starting left tackle. Collins obviously wouldn’t be replacing Williams, but he could start opposite him on the right side. That would give Washington an excellent pair of mauling, nasty tackles. The only knock on this pick is Washington needing a pass rusher to replace the departed Brian Orakpo. There are a lot of options here in that regard – namely Nebraska’s Randy Gregory – but a solid player could be had in the second round at that position.

SB Nation presents: Washington goes with defense in our latest mock draft