With the No. 5 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Washington selected offensive lineman Brandon Scherff of Iowa. Scherff was considered the top offensive lineman coming into the draft, drawing favorable comparisons to Zack Martin.
NFL Draft 2015: Brandon Scherff goes to Washington
Scherff is the most dominant run blocker in this draft.
Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Much like Martin — who was a first-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2014 — some have wondered if Scherff would be better suited as a guard. Martin also was listed as a tackle for much of the pre-draft process, but the Cowboys drafted him to play guard. He managed to make the Pro Bowl, was named a first-team All-Pro and helped block for DeMarco Murray, the most productive running back in the league a season ago.
Scherff played both tackle and guard in college. He was considered one of the best offensive tackle prospects in his junior year at Iowa, but returned for his senior year and excelled on the interior. For the year, he was awarded the Outland Trophy — given to the top interior lineman each — was a first-team All-Big Ten selection and a unanimous All-American.
A dominant run blocker, Scherff’s biggest weakness comes against speed rushers on the outside. That’s why many figure he can be one of the top interior lineman in the league, but may have a lower ceiling as an offensive tackle. Still, he can start at most positions immediately and should be doing so in Week 1.
Washington had the enviable position of picking at No. 5 with Leonard Williams on the board, leading many to think they might trade down. That was coupled with Washington general manager Scot McCloughan saying the team wanted to make some trades to gather more draft picks this year — but it now looks like Scherff was always going to be their guy. He should be able to start immediately.
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