The 2021 NFL Draft is just days away. The Washington Football Team will be looking to land a superstar for years to come with the 19th overall pick.
Here is a look at Washington’s five best ever first round draft picks.
1. Sammy Baugh, 1937, 6th Pick Overall
Arguably the greatest NFL player ever, how could there possibly be a better choice? Sammy Baugh led Washington to their first ever NFL Championship, is one of only two retired Washington jerseys, and is in the Hall Of Fame. There are not enough superlatives to describe Slingin’ Sammy.
2. Art Monk, 1980, 18th Pick Overall
The greatest receiver in Washington history. The classiest player to ever don the jersey. At one time the NFL’s all-time leading receiver before being passed by Jerry Rice. He caught 940 balls over 14 seasons, for 12,721 yards. Hall of Famer. Still contributing to the Washington community. Legend.
3. Darrell Green, 1983, 28th Pick Overall
The NFL’s fastest man. Repeatedly. 20 years in Washington. Two decades of consistent lockdown corner play. 54 career interceptions. 7-time pro Bowler. Hall of Famer. A pillar in the community still to this day.
4. Charley Taylor, 1964, 3rd pick Overall
Washington’s second best receiver ever. Drafted to play running back. Like Monk, all-time leading receiver when he retired with 9110 yards on 649 catches. 90 career touchdowns. 8-time Pro Bowler. Hall of Famer.
5. Sean Taylor, 2004, 5th Overall Pick
Though his time was short, too short, his impact was massive. There’s no telling how big a career The Meast might have had. There’s no denying the emotional mark he left on the franchise. May he rest in peace.
Honorable mentions:
Chris Samuels, 2000, 3rd Overall Pick
Trent Williams, 2010, 4th overall pick
Ryan Kerrigan, 2011, 16th Overall pick
Riley Smith, 1936, 2nd Pick Overall (First ever pick!)
It does bear mentioning that it is only a lack of tenure that prevents newer draft picks from making this list. Guys like Brandon Scherff, Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Montez Sweat, and of course Chase Young, are all on their way to successful NFL careers.
Check out the history of Washington’s first round draft selections.
Or take a look at Washington’s 2021 Draft selection slots.