Washington Redskins: NFL Draft First-Round Fits, Prospects
By Joe Wedra
Picking at 5th in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Washington Redskins have many options with their first round selection. The general consensus says they’ll go with a lineman on either side of the football considering the massive need to get better in the trenches immediately.
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Below, you’ll find breakdowns of the top three prospects — Brandon Scherff, Randy Gregory, Dante Fowler Jr. — and why they’d be viable fits for the Redskins in the first round.
Brandon Scherff
If there’s one pick that probably makes the most sense this year, it’s former Iowa OT Brandon Scherff.
The top-ranked lineman by many in this class, Scherff locks down all traits necessary to be considered a top-five pick. Not only does he project to be a very good cornerstone on the outside, but his tape also says that he can easily make the move to the inside if needed.
The fact that the Redskins have needs at both tackle and guard bodes well for Scherff’s chances to head to Washington.
Dante Fowler Jr.
Washington must improve their pass-rush if they really want to get above the dreaded .500 mark in the next few seasons. There isn’t much to brag about in the “getting after the QB” talks; Fowler would be a very nice addition to add a spark to the outside.
He has a lot to love as a prospect. He’s as quick as anyone in this draft, able beat the tackle to his outside shoulder seemingly before the ball is snapped.
While he doesn’t possess supreme strength, he has enough room to grow. Teams will love his upside and raw skills enough to take him very high in this class. If the Redskins go with an EDGE prospect, Fowler could very well be the guy.
Randy Gregory
This one is probably the more conventional pick, but it makes sense.
Gregory is as talented as any rusher in this class, but it’s possible he doesn’t last until 5. With Tennessee and Jacksonville picking at 2 and 3 respectively, the possibility of him landing in Washington isn’t too likely.
However, if Washington does get the opportunity to snatch the former Missouri standout, they shouldn’t pass. Despite having a few initial burst issues, Gregory has shown that he’s worthy of being one of the top picks in 2015.
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