Senior Bowl Primer
The Redskins staff won't be coaching the game this time around, but they are scouting the talent just the same. Mike Shanahan and crew coached the South squad a year ago and ultimately added four players to their 2012 roster that played in the game. Who should we be keeping an eye on in advance of April's NFL Draft?
Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma (South 69)- Just like they love Iowa and SMU players, the Redskins like Oklahoma offensive lineman (Trent Williams & Chris Chester). Likely a first rounder, the Skins will need some luck to land him in 2nd round.
Kyle Long, G/T, Oregon (North 74)- Yes, he is a member of "that" Long family. Displaying the versatility the Redskins love, Long can play both guard and tackle and seems a good fit as a right tackle in the zone blocking scheme.
D.J. Fluker, T, Alabama (South 76)- The Redskins are seeking a right tackle and Fluker is the top natural RT in the draft. An absolute road grader in the run game and holds his own in pass blocking. Will fall to Skins in 2nd round with some luck.
Margus Hunt, DE, SMU (North 96)- My favorite player in the entire draft. Absolute freakish athlete that seems fit as a 3-4 five technique. When your defensive ends get only one sack all season, you need to take a chance on a guy like Hunt.
Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina (North 92)- Very athletic tackle that is flying a bit under the radar. Provides a very balanced skill set and relieve Barry Cofield or allow him to move outside on passing downs.
Kawann Short, DT, Purdue (North 93)- Short is capable of playing either the three or five technique and would provide much needed depth and a potential pocket collapse type rusher in the interior.
Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State (North 14)- Elite corner who excels in zone coverage. Top end speed may be only concern and scouts will be watching his official 40 times. Absolute position of need for the 'Skins.
Bacarri Rambo, S, Georgia (South 18)- Big time playmaker at free safety. Double digit interceptions over past two seasons and leader of a very talented Bulldogs secondary. Excels at coverage but needs work against the run.
Robert Lester, S, Alabama (South 37)- Alabama is an NFL factory for defensive backs. Nick Saban takes pride in the position and personally coaches 'em up in practice. Lester could start for the rest of the decade in Washington.
T.J. McDonald, S, USC (North 7)- The son of former NFL pro bowler Tim McDonald. A jumbo safety with the potential and athletic ability matching any DB in the draft. Take Lester and TJ or Rambo and the question marks at safety are answered.
The Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama kicks off at 4pm Saturday and will be carried LIVE on the NFL Network.
