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For this mock draft, I used Fanspeak's On the Clock Mock Draft simulator, which you can find Here . I also used my Big Board I created a few weeks ago to align certain picks and project a value vs. needs approach to this draft. For the simulator, I chose the CBS Sports Big Board and Fanspeak's team needs.
You can see my entire mock draft Here.
Malik McDowell - Despite the free agent signings of Stacy McGee and Terrell McClain, defensive tackle is still the Redskins top need. Last year, the defensive front seven couldn't stop a Pop Warner rushing attack, and the success of the season hangs on Manusky's unit being able to improve significantly in this area.
McDowell gives the Redskins a true 5-technique defensive end to play in the Redskins base 3-4 defense. he can kick inside in sub packages and rush the passer from the 3-technique. Malik give the Skins a young, talented defensive linemen who Jim Tomsula can mold into an effective starter.
Alvin Kamara - People are talking about Christian McCaffrey and Joe Mixon as being two of the most complete running backs in this draft class. One will be gone before we select at pick 17, and the other has some off-field baggage the Redskins may be smart to avoid. Kamara is being overlooked in this draft, but he's as complete a running back as the two I previously mentioned. Another good thing about Kamara is he doesn't have much tread worn off his young tires, as he split time in the backfield when he was in Knoxville. He should come in and immediately take over as the team's go-to back. He's good for 20 touches a game either as a ball carrier or a receiver out of the backfield. He compares very favorably to the Cardinals David Johnson with his unique skills.
Anthony Walker Jr. - Walker is one of the most underrated linebackers in what some consider to be a loaded draft at the position. The 6'1" 238 pound thumper is smart, instinctual, athletic and durable. He understand angles, reads his keys very well, and comes downhill with a purpose. He should be a player who can come in and start learning the MIKE linebacker position in training camp, and fight for a starting position opposite newly acquired Zach Brown.
Eddie Jackson - The former corner-turned-safety suffered a broken leg last year at Alabama. If it had not been for this misfortune, Jackson could very likely be hearing his name called much higher. With this pick the Redskins get a versatile defensive back able to play both Free Safety and Cornerback. He learned to play defensive back under Nick Saban, who is one of the best defensive back coaches (yes, he still coaches the secondary despite being the head coach) in the country.
Ethan Pocic - Pocic is a versatile, tough, long offensive lineman capable of playing both center and guard. He can come in and compete for a starting spot at left guard while also serving as Spencer Long's back-up at center.
Malachi Dupree - Dupree suffered from poor QB play at LSU, but he has all the necessary tools to be a productive NFL receiver. He's best suited to come in as a 4th wideout early in his career while leaning the nuances of the position behind some veterans. He is a project, but the talent is very evident.
Stevie Tu'ikolovatu - The 6'1" 330 pound nose tackle is just what the Redskins defensive needs in the middle of the line. Big Stevie is not your typical rookie, as he'll turn 26 years old this June, and is already married. He transferred to USC from Utah to play his final season in the Pac 10, and he made an immediate impact for the Trojans, recording 53 tackles and was named second team all-conference. He'll be a two-down player in the NFL.
Rayshawn Jenkins - Jenkins is a strong, physical safety who has a very competitive demeanor. He can play near the box, or drop back as a single high. His willingness to play special teams will help him make this team. If he can hone his skills behind a quality veteran, he has a chance to make an impact at safety down the road.
Chad Kelly - Kelly is a player with immense talent, but injuries have hampered what could have been a very productive final season at Ole Miss. The nephew of Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, Chad has also had some issue off the field as well. If he can stay healthy and focused, he has the ability to be a productive NFL signal caller.
Bryan Cox Jr. - The son of former Pro Bowl linebacker Brian Cox, Brian Jr. is a limited athlete, but feisty competitor as an edge rusher. He will pack his lunch pail and come after you on every play.