ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. Gives the Redskins 2 Alabama Players in Grade "A" Mock Draft

Mel Kiper's latest mock draft has him playing GM for all 32 teams in the first three rounds, picking the player that best fits per E$PN IN$IDER. The Redskins selections fit some of the needs of the team going into the 2016 season.  Scot McCloughan likes to go safe in the 1st round, and a player like Ryan Kelly could fit that bill, while there are arguably higher ceiling players(or higher positional value players) still on the board. Kory Lichtensteiger's position seems to always be one that fans want to upgrade, and the Redskins fallback plan last year(Josh LeRibeus) was not prepared to steal the job from him. Is another 1st round pick for the Redskins the best option(we know your answer Ken).

Robert Nkemdiche will have to check on local exotic pet laws in the DMV after signing his contract. His ceiling is high on the field, but Scot McCloughan infamously likes to get to the soul of the player before drafting them.  Certain things will be overlooked as long as the desire and hunger to be great is there, but you have to pass his test to get the chance to prove that on his team. Defensive line needs to be addressed, and with a stacked draft class, waiting until the 2nd round or later could be a smart option if higher ranked talent is available at other positions is available. But wait if you miss later?

The Redskins secondary dealt with injuries and suspensions last year, and still has question marks due to injuries, inexperience and releases heading into this season. Kiper gives Washington former Crimson Tide CB Cyrus Jones who he feels could immediately step into the rotation.  Chris Culliver is recovering from his 2nd ACL tear in 3 years, Bashaud Breeland should continue to hold down a starting spot in year 3, Quinton Dunbar's has a lot of potential and inexperience at the position, and vets Will Blackmon and Greg Toler were added for depth and insurance. Would Jones be able to step into the slot immediately?

Round 1 (21): Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama

Round 2 (53): Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi

Round 3 (84): Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama

Analysis: Center is arguably the biggest immediate need, so while you don't see many come off the board this early, the ones who do are usually plug-and-play guys, and Kelly certainly fits the bill. And while it's not a sexy pick, addressing the top need with the best available player is no-brainer. I can see Kelly coming off the board before No. 21 in a real draft-day scenario, so he makes plenty of sense here. On pure talent, Nkemdiche is arguably the best defensive lineman in the draft, so getting him late in Round 2 isn't a scary roll of the dice. We have a clear need at cornerback, and Jones comes in ready to jump into the rotation.