Redskins Draft Safety Troy Apke in Round 4

Posted on by

April 28, 2018; Updated 8:30 p.m. ET

by Steve Thomas

The Washington Redskins drafted safety Troy Apke with the 9th pick in round 4 of the 2018 NFL draft.  Apke, who stands 6’1” and weighs 200 pounds, graduated from Penn St. after playing 44 games in four years for the Nitney Lions, with 63 solo tackles, 48 assisted tackles, 1 sack, and two interceptions.  He was a starter in 2017.  He is the son of Steve Apke, who was a replacement player for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1987 strike season.

Apke is known as an athletic marvel, having run 4.34 in the 40 yard dash, jumped 10’11” in the broad jump, and had 16 reps at 225 pounds in the bench press at the NFL Combine.

Apke’s speed and incredible ahtleticism are his greatest assets, which allows him to make up for coverage mistakes.  He has significant collegiate experience at special teams.  He will have a chance to improve his coverage skills and recognition with the Redskins at the next level.

Head coach Jay Gruden praised Apke, stating, “I think he’s a very good safety. He’s got great range. You’ve seen him fill in run support and I think he’s going to get better and better. I think the sky’s the limit for him as a player….anybody who can run 4.3 – whatever it is, 4.32, I think it was? Short shuttle, I think he’s right around 4.0. He’s still learning the position. He takes good angles to the football and he’s not afraid. And he’s great on special teams, so it was a win-win not only as a safety but as a special teams player. I think he’ll fit right in.”

In a conference call with Washington media, Apke described his game as “aggressive”, stating that “I think I can get in the box and hit someone. I’m fast. I can cover the field. I just kind of play. I’m tough, that’s how I like to play. I won’t back down from anyone.”  He also made known his willingness to contribute on special teams, providing, ““I think it’s going to be a big thing. That’s what I’m going to make my name on – special teams – there. And then, you know, I played it all throughout college, I played on all four special teams so that will be big for me.”

Apke will provide depth at the safety position behind starters D.J. Swearinger and Deshazor Everett.  The Redskins doubtlessly see him as having a significant role on special teams immediately, which has become a need this offseason with the departure of special teams standout Niles Paul.

Stay with The Hog Sty throughout the day for more information on Apke and the other day 3 picks.

323 comments