Washington Redskins Select Fabian Moreau With Third Round Pick, No. 81 Overall

October 22, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive back Fabian Moreau (10) defends but is called for pass interfence against Utah Utes wide receiver Tim Patrick (12) during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 22, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive back Fabian Moreau (10) defends but is called for pass interfence against Utah Utes wide receiver Tim Patrick (12) during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Washington Redskins added two defensive players with their first two picks in the 2017 NFL Draft. They continued that trend in the third round by taking Fabian Moreau.

While not many predicted that Jonathan Allen would be drafted by the Washington Redskins, many predicted the Ryan Anderson selection. However, most saw him as a third to fourth round pick. There was never any question that he fit the team’s defensive scheme, but he never looked like more than a solid talent. While the value was not there, Anderson still fit the team’s philosophy. They continued to demonstrate a care for this by drafting cornerback Fabian Moreau in the third round.

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If Anderson was a slight reach in the second round, then Fabian Moreau was the opposite in the third round. There were some who believed that Moreau would have a chance to sneak into the late first round. If not, he was a guaranteed second rounder. Well, that did not happen. Moreau slipped a bit in a strong cornerback draft and the Redskins pounced on him at the No. 81 overall pick.

Moreau was a three year starter at UCLA, but he was there for five years after having a redshirt year. In his final season, Moreau demonstrated solid coverage skills and looked like he had potential as a depth corner in the NFL.

However, as draft season plodded along, Moreau impressed scouts and general managers alike. He was one of the best players during the East-West Shrine game and parlayed that into a solid performance at the NFL Combine. He has the ability to be a starting corner in the NFL, and he could eventually challenge Bashaud Breeland for the No. 2 cornerback position. Unfortunately, Moreau tore his pectoral muscle at his Pro Day, and may have to start the season on the PUP list. Still, he has the potential to be a strong player for the team.

Next: Washington Redskins Select LB Ryan Anderson

Overall, this looks to be a solid pick. Moreau was a good value in the middle of the third round, and his presence may motivate Breeland to play better. Regardless, Moreau has a shot to become a strong complement to Josh Norman. The team’s defense is improving by the pick right now.