Player Preview: The Washington Redskins Offensive Line

If Robert Griffin III is the key to the Washington Redskins success, then the offensive line should be the team’s security blanket. Despite the group’s ability to stay healthy, the unit struggled protecting RG3 and allowed a total of 43 sacks over the course of the season. This year, head coach Jay Gruden hopes to see a major improvement from the line that acquired Shaun Lauvao and allowed center Will Montgomery to leave during free agency.

Also, the front office made a point of selecting potential starters during the 2014 NFL Draft. At that time, the Redskins chose both Morgan Moses (Virginia) and Spencer Long (Nebraska) in the third round and the team expects them to come in and have an impact during their rookie campaigns. Both picks were rather large surprises, however, for very different reasons. After dropping to the third round, Moses was seen as steal by many draft experts while Long was viewed as more of a reach.

Nonetheless, left tackle Trent Williams is the entrenched star of the group after making the pro bowl last season. Then, Lauvao is expected to see the first snaps at the left guard position. After gaining about 15 pounds, Cory Lichtensteiger will be transitioned into the starting center role and has progressed nicely in his new position. The other side of the line will be a major question as Chris Chester and Tyler Polumbus are the incumbent starters, but had fans in an uproar after poor seasons.

During the preseason, the line will be a major point of emphasis and if the groups able to gel as a unit the offense will be one to reckon with.