Rams sign offensive guard Brandon Washington

Jim Thomas ‏@jthom1

Rams sign offensive guard Brandon Washington, a 6th-round pick by Eagles last April, to their practice squad.

More info on him

The Philadelphia Eagles used their second pick of the sixth round (No. 30 in the round, No. 200 overall) to select Miami offensive lineman Brandon Washington. He played tackle last year at Miami but guard the two years prior to that, and the Eagles announced him as a guard, which is where he projects to play in the NFL. At 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, he feels a little big for a Howard Mudd guard. But perhaps his experience at guard and tackle is part of the appeal for a team that was looking to add bench depth behind its offensive line starters.

From Football Weekly

Positives:

Thickly built. Athletic with sudden movement skills — light on his feet for a big man. Fluid and flexible in space. Gains depth in kick slide. Explosive puller — wheels with speed and agility. Good lateral agility — washes slanting defensive ends inside and is able to shift his weight and redirect. Above-average blocking range and recovery quickness. Has played inside and outside. Has upside.

Negatives:

Has a soft midsection and needs to improve his functional strength. Unrefined technique and footwork. Plays short-armed and slow-handed — has a dull, sloppy punch and exposes his frame. Poor contact balance. Struggles to sustain — at times looks like he is playing with an innertube around his waist. Does not roll his hips and generate power. Struggled vs. Ohio State’s John Simon and Florida State’s Brandon Jenkins. Needs more glass in his diet and is not a finisher. Urgency and intensity leave something to be desired. Has underachiever traits.

Summary:

A big, raw, physically talented lineman who most definitely could have used another year of development. Disappointed at left tackle as a junior, but possesses starter-caliber size and athletic ability. Offers versatility to play right tackle or slide inside, although he will have to improve his core strength, play with more tenacity and learn how to finish. Could require patience and always leave a team wanting more. Compares favorably to Oakland Raiders 2011 third-round pick Joseph Barksdale.