Redskins Mock Draft: Instant Contributors Washington Can Find in Every Round
When you're coming off a 4-12 season, every round of an NFL draft can offer instant contributors. For the Washington Redskins, that possibility is stronger given the reputation of new general manager Scot McCloughan.
During stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks, McCloughan established a niche as a shrewd evaluator of talent. He helped load up both rosters with starter-ready rookies.
He'll enter the 2015 draft armed with seven picks, along with the very real potential to swell that number via trade. Either way, McCloughan has a number of Day 1 playmakers to aim for.
Most of them are on defense, the side of the ball McCloughan has smartly made the focus in his first offseason in charge. He can pick from a host of pass-rushers to replace Brian Orakpo, while the man who helped build the Seattle Seahawks' "Legion of Boom" secondary should be tempted by a number of bulky defensive backs.
Find out which prospects could make an instant contribution for Washington in 2015.
Round 1: Leonard Williams, DT, USC
1 of 8
If he slips to end of the top five, does anyone really think the Redskins would pass on Leonard Williams? The phrase "not a chance" leaps to mind, perhaps in more than one sense.
As a highly versatile defensive lineman who can dominate every phase of an offense, Williams has tremendous value. That value applies even to a team that added three D-linemen during free agency.
Terrance Knighton is sure to start over center, while Stephen Paea likely plays 3-technique at one outside spot. But as for the other, Williams could see the field ahead of veteran Jason Hatcher.
Last season's marquee defensive free agent will be 33 before the season starts. Recruiting Williams would allow the ex-Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowler to play as a nickel pass-rusher, potentially prolonging his career in D.C.
Williams' ability to play every line spot would also increase the flexibility of new coordinator Joe Barry's schemes. The Redskins would be able to seamlessly flip flop between 3-4 and 4-3 looks based on where and how Williams lines up.
So the value of this incredible athlete, albeit one with an inconsistent motor, is clear. But what are the real chances of Williams falling to Washington on draft day?
Rotoworld draft analyst Evan Silva spelled out a very plausible scenario:
"Think about it: If the two QBs are the top two picks, Vic Beasley goes to Jacksonville and the Raiders take a receiver, Williams is still on the board at No. 5. Yes the team added Stephen Paea, but I bet he plays the end spot closer to the G/C. Jason Hatcher has been great, but I think Williams is an obvious replacement beyond this year.
"
It's a scenario reflected in B/R draft pundit Matt Miller's latest mock.
The idea of the Tennessee Titans passing on a quarterback with the second-overall pick has always seemed beyond ludicrous. The real danger is more likely to come from the Jacksonville Jaguars, who need a focal point for any sort of credible run defense.
Given how aggressive and flexible the Redskins intend to be along the defensive front this season, Williams is a can't-miss pick if he's still on the board.
Round 1: Shane Ray, DE, Missouri
2 of 8
This defense is going to be more hybrid than in recent seasons. That will mean flexing between three- and four-man fronts on a regular basis.
That level of flexibility demands versatile edge-rushers. Missouri's Shane Ray is an obvious candidate because of his experience playing with his hand down or standing up.
As a pure pass-rusher, Ray has few equals in a draft class loaded with players who specialize in making life tough for quarterbacks. He's got the short arms and natural explosion reminiscent of graybeard rush-end Dwight Freeney.
If Ray became even half the player Freeney has been, the Redskins would feel vindicated taking him off the board early.
His instant contributions would be defined by his production in a situational role. Ray would thrive if he saw the field in obvious passing situations.
Ideally, he'd split playing time with 2014 second-rounder Trent Murphy, who can set the edge against the run but isn't the quickest off of it. This is a scenario ESPN Redskins reporter John Keim believes Washington may find enticing on draft day:
"Murphy's presence allows them to draft a player they feel could help immediately as a rusher but might take time to help vs. the run. Murphy showed as a rookie last season he could set the edge in the run game. But he can improve as a rusher. Even if he does, and they add someone, it would only make them more dangerous.
"
Ray would fit the bill as an ideal weapon to instantly upgrade a pass rush that was merely tepid last season.
Round 2
3 of 8
Eric Kendricks, ILB, UCLA
Barry's new-look defense needs a true athlete to partner Keenan Robinson at the heart of the linebacker corps. Eric Kendricks is the best Washington will find in this draft.
He's quick, highly intelligent and has the range any hybrid D needs. But at 6'0" and 232 pounds, Kendricks' lack of size will concern some, perhaps pushing him into the arms of a team like Washington.
One NFC West regional scout has already highlighted this issue, per NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein: "His production and character makes it easy for a scout to bang the table for him. The only blow-back I anticipate in my room is regarding his size, but if you stick him at the WILL spot, I don't think it matters."
Pair Kendricks with Robinson and the Redskins will have two middle 'backers they can match up in coverage against a host of offensive sets. Then Barry will be free to create pressure by rushing four, usually a win-win for any unit.
Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE/OLB, UCLA
Owamagbe Odighizuwa is another Bruins star the Redskins would be unable to pass up if he's still on the board at the top of Round 2. That's a possibility if teams with a first-round grade struggle to define his best fit in the pros.
But the 6'3", 270-pounder is perfect material for Washington's more multi-faceted system. He can set the edge and even slide inside depending on the looks up front.
Odighizuwa is a classic "Joker-style" rusher who can be moved to either side of the front seven and line up with his hand in the dirt or lurk with intent from a standing position.
CBS Sports writers Dane Brugler and Rob Rang noted medical concerns, stemming from two hip surgeries, that could prompt a draft-day slip. If he's still available on Day 2, this roving agent of destruction is a must for Washington.
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
Round 3
4 of 8
Gerod Holliman, FS, Louisville
This team's need for help at free safety is obvious given how the position was ignored during free agency. McCloughan added former Seahawks special teamer Jeron Johnson, but he's expected to start at strong safety, according to Mike Jones of The Washington Post.
One instant contributor for the other spot is ex-Louisville ball hawk Gerod Holliman. A true center fielder, Holliman snatched an astonishing 14 interceptions last season, per CFBStats.com.
His performances even earned him the moniker "a young Ed Reed" from NFL.com Media analyst Bucky Brooks. That's high praise indeed, but certainly words that should appeal to a team desperately needing a natural playmaker along the last line of defense.
Walter Football's Charlie Campbell believes the Redskins can snare Holliman one round earlier. But NFL.com's Lance Zierlein dubbed him an "atrocious tackler."
This key flaw in Holliman's game probably sees him waiting until the third round to hear his name called. If there's one team that can justify overlooking his wiry frame and feeble hitting, it's Washington.
Tre' Jackson, G, Florida State
The Redskins want and need to get bigger along the offensive front. ESPN's John Keim believes new line coach Bill Callahan will need "bigger guys who can move." Step forward, Tre' Jackson.
A true behemoth, Jackson and his 6'4", 330-pound frame could push slight and uninspiring veteran Chris Chester right off the roster. Jackson is a mass of humanity who's at his best when driving defenders off the ball.
That's the type of physicality Washington has lacked up front for too long, particularly along the interior.
Round 4
5 of 8
Eric Rowe, DB, Utah
Signing Chris Culliver in free agency not only added some much-needed talent to the cornerback rotation, it also expanded the possibilities for filling the free safety spot.
One option is converting a cornerback to the position. The roster already includes an incumbent trio, DeAngelo Hall, David Amerson and Bashaud Breeland, who could make the switch.
Head coach Jay Gruden has also indicated a few rookie prospects with crossover potential will be considered, according to Mike Jones of The Washington Post.
That should put Utah's Eric Rowe in the mix. The 6'1", 205-pounder certainly has the size to change positions.
He even played safety for three years with the Utes, per Real Redskins blogger Rich Tandler. He notes Rowe's lack of "straight-line speed" as an obvious weakness.
Yet that wouldn't be too much of an issue if Rowe moved back to safety where he can keep the game in front of him.
B.J. Finney, C, Kansas State
B.J. Finney is a classic anchor man inside. He's a savvy and resourceful scrapper who can win the power matchups over the ball.
Finney would pose a strong challenge to existing starter Kory Lichtensteiger. The experienced pivot man is capable at the heart of the trenches, but he's never been physically dominant or particularly durable.
Finney is a bigger body for center, as well as a potential candidate for right guard.
Round 5
6 of 8
Nick Marshall, CB, Auburn
McCloughan knows how a team can be rewarded for rolling the dice on a conversion project. He was part of the decision that led to the Seahawks taking one-time wide receiver-turned cornerback Richard Sherman in Round 5 in 2011.
That thinking could prompt McCloughan to snag former quarterback Nick Marshall at the same stage in 2015. The newly minted cornerback has the size McCloughan prefers on the outside.
At 6'1" and 207 pounds, Marshall can play press. He can also utilize trail technique thanks to naturally smooth acceleration and move skills.
Obviously, the leap from throwing passes to anticipating and rebuffing them is likely to scare some teams off. Others may be concerned by "theft charges" and a 2014 citation for marijuana possession, according to CBS Sports analyst Rob Rang.
Terrence Magee, RB, LSU
One of the few things lacking from Washington's offense is a change-of-pace runner to complement workhorse Alfred Morris. LSU's pocket-edition speedster Terrance Magee is certainly a name the Redskins should consider in Round 5.
He's not a prolific receiver out of the backfield, but Magee is a fleet-footed and shifty ball-carrier. He possesses the acceleration and slashing style to effectively complement Morris' brawn.
He's also used to sharing carries, having played in a rotation for the Tigers. While a power-speed mix is a must for every pro backfield, Magee would have to convince he would merit more than scant opportunities.
Round 6
7 of 8
John Crockett, RB, North Dakota State
If Gruden wants a more versatile weapon to help replace Roy Helu Jr., he may find John Crockett too good to pass up in the sixth round. The former North Dakota State ace is a flexible runner and capable receiver.
Walter Football's Walter Cherepinsky commended Crockett's "blitz-pickup" skills. That's a niche talent invaluable on third downs.
So is Crockett's ability to exploit coverage out of the backfield. B/R's Mike Tanier detailed his potential as a receiver: "Crockett caught 30 passes last season. While many were screens, he has shown downfield receiving ability, sneaking out of the backfield on a wheel route for a huge gain against Sam Houston State in the FCS playoffs."
Tanier also highlighted Crockett's patience on power runs, as well as his anticipation on zone-style cutback plays. That level of versatility makes him an intriguing fit for the more varied ground attack Gruden and Callahan are planning for 2015.
Crockett would support Morris and also compete for third-down duty. Pint-sized pace merchant Chris Thompson will get the "first crack" at the latter role, per Mike Jones of The Washington Post.
But Thompson's lack of size could still give Crockett a role as a supplemental ball-carrier.
Jeremiah Poutasi, G/T, Utah
The Redskins can add more bulk to their line by snaring 335-pound road grader Jeremiah Poutasi late on. They'd also get a highly versatile blocker who could challenge for time at both guard spots and even right tackle.
Poutasi played on the edge at the collegiate level. But his house-sized frame and awesome strength makes him better suited to the inside.
His potential to emerge as a late-round gem at any one of the three weakest spots on Washington's O-line makes Poutasi a sleeper not to be missed.
Round 7: A.J. Tarpley, ILB, Stanford
8 of 8
A.J. Tarpley is a highly intelligent and flexible linebacker who could compete for time at either insider spot on Washington's defense. Tarpley reads the game well and doesn't waste time diagnosing plays.
His anticipation often bails him out of bad spots and masks his lack of elite athleticism. Tarpley would be more than useful in the linebacker rotation and an instant hit on special teams.
That's not a bad return for a final-round flutter.
In a report for Walter Football, NFLDraftInsider.net writer Tony Pauline stated Washington pulled Tarpley "aside" after he impressed during Stanford's pro day.
McCloughan's first draft for the Redskins has to form the foundation of his rebuilding effort. Fortunately, this is a class well-stocked with instant-impact types, particularly on defense.
Washington shouldn't be able to emerge from this selection process without being significantly stronger on that side of the ball. Smart picking late on can also yield some excellent value at core positions on offense.
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
.png?w=480)
