If Washington selects a pocket quarterback like Jones in Round 1 it makes sense for them to acquire some protection for him in Round 2. Eichenberg doesn’t have the athleticism to become an elite left tackle, but he’s ready to play meaningful snaps right away due to his polish as a run blocker.
Eichenberg’s strength as a left tackle comes in his ability to knock defenders back at the line of scrimmage and then get to the second level to really open up a gaping hole. That makes him a perfect fit with the sort of power run game Rivera wants to deploy.
The former Notre Dame star does need help neutralizing elite speed off the edge. He’s not a player who can be left out on an island against speed rushers during his rookie season. Eichenberg does a good job handling power rushers, but he lacks the foot speed to hold up in one-on-one matchups against hybrid rushers.
Eichenberg isn’t a potential star, but he can give Washington an immediate upgrade at a position of real need. Grabbing a guy capable of being a decent starter at left tackle in Round 2 is great value for any franchise.