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Measurements: 6'3", 194 lbs
Projected Round: 5-6
Why he would be a good Redskin:
Marquess Wilson could easily be one of the biggest steals of the 2013 draft. Character concerns have caused his draft stock to plummet as he is currently projected to be picked in the 5th or 6th round despite the fact that he possesses 1st or 2nd round talent. You can argue about work ethic and character but the talent that this prolific big play receiver has is undeniable. The former Tulare High Redskin (that's right, he has experience wearing the burgundy and gold) burst onto the scene at Washington State by leading all freshmen in receiving yards and being named to the Freshmen All American Team. Wilson's effortless long striding ability make him deceptively fast and he uses his athleticism and his long 6'3" frame to win in almost any jump ball situation. He also has the ability to get in and out of breaks extremely quickly as evidenced by his time of 6.65 in the 3 cone drill, which was good for 3rdoverall at the combine. After just 3 seasons at WSU, he left the team as the school's all time leader in career receiving yards (9th in Pac 12 history). You can never have enough playmakers and the Redskins don't really have any wide outs that keep defensive coordinators up at night.
Why he won't be drafted by the Redskins:
The aforementioned character issues are without a doubt the biggest question mark for prospective NFL employers. They are highlighted by his 2012 suspension, his decision to quit the team and his subsequent allegations of abuse against his former coaches. He accused Mike Leach and other members of the Cougar coaching staff of physical, verbal and mental abuse only to later recant some of his story and apologize. Unfortunately for Wilson, clashes with the coaching staff are not the only thing that scouts are concerned about. Frequent dropped balls and subpar route running have caused many to question his level of concentration on the field. His lean and lanky frame make him a dangerous big play and jump ball threat, but they also impair his ability to beat press coverage and to make an impact as a blocker in the running game. This could be a problem for the Redskins because their zone blocking scheme calls for numerous outside runs, which require adequate blocking by receivers to be effective. Also, Wilson does not fit the mold of a replacement for the aging Santana Moss. He is much better suited for the big play along the sidelines X receiver role then he is to work in the slot.
Bottom Line:
He had his fair share of issues with 1st year WSU coach Mike Leach, but who hasn't? At least he didn't end up locked in a shed ala Adam James. The whole situation could have been handled better, but it is worth noting that there were never any major issues with the previous coaching staff. If the 20 year old Wilson improves his strength and technique and adds some weight to his lean build then he has potential to be much more than just a complimentary receiver in the NFL. Picking him may be a risky investment for a team to make come draft day, however it's one that could pay huge dividends especially considering how late he is projected to be selected.
Highlights from his record breaking (WSU) 2011 season: