2018 NFL Draft first round re-draft: What changes one year later?

13. Washington Redskins: Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama

Original Pick: Daron Payne

This was a very tough decision for me between the two Crimson Tide rookies, but ultimately the upside that Ridley brings won out. Daron Payne had a solid rookie season for the Skins and they would have to address that position in some other way, as they do not have another prominent nose tackle on the roster.

The Redskins have been trying so hard for so long to find a go-to receiver and have come up empty time after time. Ridley had an outstanding rookie season alongside Julio Jones in Atlanta, catching 10 touchdowns and racking up over 800 receiving yards.

Some may attribute Ridley’s success to the attention that Jones has to draw from opposing defenses, but Ridley is a great route runner with explosion and speed to beat defenses deep. If you pair him with a receiver like Jamison Crowder (who is now with the Jets but spent 2018 in Washington), the two would be effective options for any quarterback.

14. New Orleans Saints: Daron Payne, DT, Alabama

Original Pick: Marcus Davenport

This original pick seems to be a rare miss for the New Orleans front office as of late. The Saints traded up to take Davenport, who recorded just 4.5 sacks last season, not starting a single game. Obviously, it is still early, but the rookie season does not project well for Davenport.

Despite the lack of production from their first round pick, the Saints were arguably one missed call away from a Super Bowl appearance. They have a well-rounded and talented roster without any super glaring needs or weak spots.

If they had known that Davenport would turn out the way he has so far, the Saints likely would not have traded up. But since they are at 14, they can take the best player available, or address one of their few needs and really round out their roster.

A pass rusher opposite of Cameron Jordan would be great, but this draft class lacks elite edge defenders. A big play tight end for Drew Brees is also a need, but it’s still a bit early for the tight ends in this class.

Here, the Saints are able to arguably do both, adding Payne instead of Davenport to their defensive front. Payne and Sheldon Rankins are a stout duo on the inside. Payne managed five sacks and 56 combined tackles as a rookie. Suring up the defensive front can help the Saints be even more effective against the run, as well as getting some interior pressure against opposing quarterbacks.