Ok, so maybe the NFL is in a lockout. But that doesn't mean we can't still talk about the 2011 NFL Draft, does it? No, I didn't think so. SB Nation just came out with their latest 2011 NFL Mock Draft, and they have a little bit of a surprise slated to go 10th overall to the Redskins. They think the Redskins will take Washington QB Jake Locker. Here is their rationale.
Once upon a time, Mike Shanahan took a quarterback from a bad program that struggled to complete 60% of his passes No. 11 overall. Jake Locker has better upside and better intangibles than did Jay Cutler, and fits Shanahan's offense well.
I'm not sure Jay Cutler is the best person to compare Locker too if you want to inspire the team or their fans. I think we all remember how that worked out. But that's kind of besides the point, as for Locker himself, I think he presents a lot of risks at the 10 spot.
We know that his accuracy is a question. He has all the physical tools to be successful, but athletic quarterbacks that lack accuracy don't fair very well in this league, typically.
I'm afraid this might be a product of "The Redskins need a quarterback" more so than the "Redskins need Jake Locker." I understand how bad their quarterback situation is. But they need to get a good player with this draft pick at any position more than they need to get just any quarterback. I think Locker would be a pretty significant reach at 10. I'm not sure the Redskins are willing to take that risk. They might (and I hope they do) side with a safer pick at another position.