Kevin's post yesterday on local players taken in the 2011 draft got me thinking maybe it would be a good idea to highlight some local college prospects that some of may get to see in person this upcoming year and who could be a potential fit for the Redskins in the 2012 draft.
The University of Virginia definitely has been playing second fiddle to Virginia Tech (hell maybe 3rd or 4th fiddle) since the mid-90s. But despite poor records on the field the Cavaliers have continually cranked out quality NFL players. Here is just a sample of former Hoos that are currently in the NFL:
- Matt Schaub, Texans
- Chris Long, Rams
- Ronde Barber, Bucs (errr... Tiki Barber?)
- James Farrior, Steelers
- D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Jets
- Heath Miller, Steelers
- Thomas Jones, Chiefs
For the second year in a row UVA looks like it will produce one the top cornerbacks in the draft. This past year Ras-I Dowling, a Chesapeake native, was taken in the second round by the Patriots. This year the Hoos have a CB prospect that is expected to be even better than Dowling in Redshirt-Senior Chase Minnifield.
Minnifield is most likely a late 1st round to early 2nd round pick, and if the Redskins still have a void opposite DeAngelo Hall after this season then Minnifield could be a target for the Skins. Minnifield is listed at 6'0, 185 lbs and was a Sports Illustrated Honorable Mention All-American in 2010. He also was 2nd in the ACC in interceptions and 7th in the nation with six picks. He also returns punts and kicks occasionally.
Keep an eye out for #13 if you watch the Cavaliers this season, he could be wearing the Burgundy and Gold next year. Recently he was one of the 42 players added to the 2011 Lott Impact Trophy watch-list. Virginia begins their 2011 campaign September 3 versus William & Mary.