Washington Redskins 7-Round Mock Draft: The Final Countdown

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Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) points to the sidelines during the first half of a game against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 2, Pick 17

Will Pick: DL Malik McDowell, Michigan State

With Caleb Brantley now borderline draftable because of his off-the-field issues, the Redskins are going to need to look elsewhere in the second round of the draft to upgrade their defensive line. Luckily for them, McDowell falls into their lap in this simulation, and should be a very solid option for the team.

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McDowell is a highly athletic player with a huge 6-foot-6 frame that will allow him to play any position in a 3-4 front. While his best fit might be at the five technique, McDowell could play nose tackle for the Redskins and help improve their front greatly. He is no guarantee to succeed, but he offers first round upside in the middle of the second round. That is too good to pass up here.

Should Pick: WR Zay Jones, East Carolina

While McDowell fills a more immediate need, the best player on the board is Zay Jones. The Senior Bowl star has the length and athleticism to develop into a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. He is clearly the No. 4 receiver on the big board, and it will be very hard for the team to pass on him. McDowell is by no means a bad pick, but Jones seems more likely to succeed.

Dark Horse: DE Tanoh Kpassagnon, Villanova

I have talked about Tanoh Kpassagnon at length over the course of the last couple weeks. The Redskins reportedly really like him, and he has great athletic upside at the 3-4 end position. He may not make it to their third round pick so if their top targets are off the board, expect Kpassagnon to be an option here.

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