2014 Wide Receiver Draft Class - Depth Good For Redskins

Make no doubt about it - the Redskins need help at wide receiver. Make no doubt about this either - Jay Gruden will want to surround Robert Griffin III with as many playmakers as possible to help make him as successful as he can be. This was the philosophy in Cincinnati with Andy Dalton, and this was a large reason the Bengals were so successful over the last three seasons.

The 2014 NFL draft is shaping up to be a very good one in terms of wide receiver depth. The recent announcements of underclassmen entering early has added a bevy of talent to a once underwhelming class.

Free agency is an option many have suggested to upgrade our receiving corps this offseason, but the group is weak, and free agent receivers are usually some of the most highly paid acquisitions teams make(see Pierre Garcon, Mike Wallace).

The Redskins currently hold the 34th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. Here is a look at the top receivers entering this draft. Who could be available when we are on the clock?

Sammy Watkins(JR) Clemson: 6'0" 205

2013(13 games) - 101rec, 1464yds, 12td

Watkins is a strong receiver after the catch, making him incredibly dangerous in the open field. He runs good routes, has above-average hands, and can also return kicks. His quickness in and out of his breaks, and ability to beat press-man coverage are what really separates him.

Marqise Lee(JR) USC: 6'0" 195

2013(11 games) - 57rec, 791yds, 4td

Lee struggled a bit through some nagging injuries and ineffective quarterback play in 2013, but there is no questioning his talent. Lee is a smooth athlete with deceptive speed, who can track the ball in the air as good as any receiver in the country. He can also contribute as a kick returner.

Mike Evans(rsSO) Texas A&M: 6'5" 225

2013(13 games) - 69rec, 1394yds, 12td

Evans was the top weapon for the 2012 Heisman winning quarterback Johnny Manziel. He is a huge target at 6'5" and close to 230 pounds, and uses his body like a power forward in basketball to shield defenders. Only has average speed and quickness, and will need to improve route running at the next level.

Allen Robinson(JR) Penn State: 6'3" 210

2013(12 games) - 97rec, 1432yds, 6td

Robinson is a smooth glider with deceptive top end speed. He has greatly improved his route running ability, and breaks in and out of his stem. He has above average hands, and amazing body control when the ball is in the air. Dangerous receiver after the catch on short crossing routes.

Jordan Matthews(SR) Vanderbilt: 6'3" 205

2013(13 games) - 112rec, 1477yds, 7td

Matthews is a big-bodied receiver who has excellent route running abilities, and the prowess to read and understand coverages. Does a nice job adjusting to poorly thrown balls, and will catch everything thrown his way. Only average speed and quickness, but makes up for that with good technique.

Kelvin Benjamin(rsSO) Florida State: 6'5" 233

2013(14 games) - 54rec, 1011yds, 15td

Benjamin is very raw, and a bit immature for being 23 years old, but his talent is undeniable. He has tight end size, with receiver speed and an NBA center wingspan. He needs a lot of work to refine his route running at the next level, but teams will fall in love with his natural ability and freakish measurables.