Now this is very much an early look at next year's draft and mainly for fun, as a lot will change between now and next April. Here is a look at some guys the Redskins might be interested in next year for their 2nd round selection. While it would be great if some first round talent fell, I'm specifically looking at guys who right now project as 2nd rounders, based on my 2013 early Big Board.
OT Jake Matthews, Texas A&M- Matthews is the son of the Hall of Fame G/T Bruce Matthews, and looks to follow in his fathers footsteps. He is just a junior and may not declare, but if he does he'd be an excellent pickup in the 2nd round. In addition to the bloodlines, Texas A&M ran a similar West Coast style offense his first two years. He's also has excellent footwork and would project well to a ZBS. The Redskins weren't able to address their RT needs this past season, but will be more easily able to get out from Jammal Brown's contract next season.
OG Jonathan Cooper, UNC- Cooper is one of the top guards in the nation, but will likely fall to the early 2nd round range given the lack of interior linemen drafted in the first round. He's got great footwork and nice speed that makes him a great ZBS fit. He's a 4 year starter, and has the potential to develop into a top 10 guard. With Kory Lichtensteiger an impending free agent and Chris Chester a bit of a long term question mark (he may be better suited for a back-up role), guard could be a need for Washington next year. If so Cooper would be a fine addition to the Skins line.
DE Margus Hunt, SMU- Hunt is one of my favorite players in the draft for next year. Originally from Estonia, Hunt was a World Junior Gold Medalist in both shot put and discus. He originally went to SMU to be a part of their track team, but after their program folded, he switched to football. He's 6'8" 280, with an 82" wingspan, which has allowed him to block 14 kicks in his career. He's a great combination of strength and speed, and would be an excellent 5-technique defensive end (will need to bulk up a little). He's a little raw overall so he will still likely be on the board in the 2nd round. He could be a great addition to the Skins line and give them a guy with some elite potential.
CB Dee Milliner, Alabama- Milliner will take over a full time starting role (he started due to injury as a freshman, but was the 3rd CB last year) next season, and should have little trouble establishing himself. Milliner is a bigger physical corner, who has really nice speed and potential. If he comes out next year, he'd be an excellent fit for the Redskins defense and could even be a day one starter if the team moves on from DeAngelo Hall.
TE Tyler Eifert, Notre Dame- Eifert at 6'6", 250 looks to be a top level TE. He's got great size and speed for the passing game and is an above average blocker. He's a mismatch for any linebacker trying to cover him and most safeties as well. While the Redskins are counting on Fred Davis, their TE depth is pretty thin and the team could look to add another weapon for RGIII. Also, Davis is a franchise player, and if he doesn't agree to a long term extenstion he could leave via free agency* making this a huge need. *Davis is not likely to be franchised for a 2nd year in a row given the costs, unless he puts up Gronk or Graham numbers.
SS Ray Ray Armstrong, Miami- Armstrong from a pure talent perspective looks to be a future star, but he's had his share of inconsistencies. Early reports are that he is out of the coaches dog house and ready to be more of a leader on defense. If the Redskins feel that he is more Sean Taylor and less Brandon Meriweather he'd be a nice 2nd round choice for the Skins, and give them a piece to build around in their secondary.
Steve Shoup will be covering Free Agency and the NFL Draft for his own site Fanspeak.com, but will provide write-ups on players for the Redskins here on Hogs Haven as well.