The 2011 NFL Draft is taking place on Thursday, April 28, and the Redskins will have the No. 10 pick in the first round. Many different players have been projected to be picked in that spot in various 2011 NFL mock drafts, and the Redskins certainly have a lot of needs. Which players will be good fits for the Redskins in that spot? We will provide scouting reports and let you know who we like in this StoryStream. Next up: Alabama WR Julio Jones.
NFL Comparison: Jones has the blocking ability of Hines Ward, with the athletic ability of Terrell Owens. Pretty scary combination if he can put it all together.
Strengths: Even in the NFL, Jones will be one of the best athletes on the field any time he takes it. He is a jaw-dropping specimen, possessing great strength, speed, and leaping ability. He is also a willing and successful blocker, making him a real asset in the running game, as opposed to just an onlooker. He is willing to go over the middle and make tough catches as well.
Weaknesses: I suppose Jones wasn't quite as dominant at the College Level as he could have been, but that could also be because of the offense that he was confined to. The Alabama offense was geared to run first, second and third, with Jones being the next option. He also has shown some inconsistencies catching the ball, and has a history of injury.
Redskins Fit: Jones would be a tremendous fit for the Redskins They have been in need of for a few years now. While we don't really know who the quarterback will be, but Jones will be that guy's best friend. The Redskins are pretty devoid of talent at the wide receiver position, and Jones would be a pretty great infusion.
The only question is whether or not Jones is a good value pick with the No. 10 overall selection. He is certainly talented enough to warrant a pick that high, but do the Redskins need a wide receiver that badly? They might be better served to to take a player on the defensive side of the ball, or an offensive lineman. Someone who would make a more consistent contribution than a wide receiver who isn't getting that many snaps a game directed toward him.
Where He Should Be Drafted: Of all the people that I've seen projected to the Redskins, Jones is probably the most popular. He should go somewhere near where they pick. There have been some rumblings that the Rams could trade up to the Cowboys at No. 9 to make sure that they get Jones before the Redskins have a chance to get him, but that could just be a rumor.