Ron Rivera, Martin Mayhew talk Washington’s Day 2 selections

The Washington Football Team selected Kentucky linebacker Jamin Davis in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft on Thursday. 

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The Washington Football Team selected Kentucky linebacker Jamin Davis in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft on Thursday.

Washington entered Friday’s portion of the draft with three selections across the second and third rounds. The Football Team chose offensive tackle Samuel Cosmi, cornerback Benjamin St-Juste and wide receiver Dyami Brown.

It was a day that earned Washington plenty of praise from around the NFL. The team has clearly prioritized length and athleticism in this class. Character, of course, is always a determining factor for any team coached by Ron Rivera.

So, after Washington made each of its picks, Rivera and general manager Martin Mayhew met with the media to discuss Friday’s action.

Cosmi played right tackle for Texas as a freshman in 2018. He moved to left tackle for the Longhorns in each of the past two seasons. Washington’s staff love that flexibility, but Cosmi will begin his career at left tackle.

According to Mayhew, for those fans screaming about a wide receiver in the second round, it was a consideration. But they couldn’t pass up Cosmi, which was a smart move.

Rivera is happy to have Cosmi.

St-Juste was a bit of a mystery to many fans, but not to this staff.

Rivera noted how Washington received calls for the No. 74 pick. After the WFT selected St-Juste, one team informed Rivera they had wanted to move up for St-Juste.

Rivera loves what St-Juste offers.

Rivera loves what Brown brings to the offense, especially in contested-catch situations.

Rivera had a stat to back it up.

Overall, Rivera and Mayhew are extremely pleased with the front office and how they’ve worked together over the last few months.

Thus far, it’s been a strong offseason for the defending NFC East champions, and Washington will look to further strengthen the roster on Saturday’s day three.