Washington Redskins meet with several prospects at Senior Bowl practices
By Ian Cummings
Along with all other NFL franchises, the Washington Redskins will be in Mobile, Alabama to scout some of the nation’s most enticing draft prospects.
Earlier today, Senior Bowl festivities carried on in Alabama, with prospects participating in weigh-ins, measurements, and team drills. NFL teams were given the opportunity to observe and analyze these events, and they were also given clearance to speak with prospects of their choice.
The Washington Redskins used this privilege wisely. They spoke with several prospects: Running back Ito Smith from Southern Mississippi, safety Quin Blanding from Virginia, running back Rashaad Penny from San Diego State, and quarterback Mike White from Western Kentucky.
Smith, 5-foot-9, 195, and Penny, 5-foot-11, 220, are both ball carriers who produced on a high level in college. Smith proved himself to be a electric and versatile weapon for the Southern Miss Golden Eagles, totaling for nearly 6,000 yards from scrimmage and 49 touchdowns in his career. Penny is viewed as a more complete runner, a possible Kareem Hunt of this draft. Penny, in particular, has tantalizing upside at the next level, but both could serve the Washington Redskins well.
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Quin Blanding is a local name who will garner some Day 2 consideration. The safety had a storied career with the Virginia Cavaliers, and at 6-foot-2, 210, he offers good size as a potential traits prospect. He was beat on occasion in drills on day one of Senior Bowl practices, but he should shake off the rust as the week goes along.
And last but not least, the Redskins interviewed Western Kentucky quarterback Mike White. White, 6-foot-4, 220, put up record numbers in his time with the Hilltoppers, making a name for himself with his relative accuracy and his big arm. Per J.P Finlay, White enjoyed his interview with the Washington Redskins, pointing out that “they just talked ball the whole time”.
Notable performances on the first day of practices include wide receiver James Washington, guard Will Hernandez, cornerback M.J. Stewart, Baker Mayfield, and Josh Rosen. Washington showed strong hands and quick feet, looking like a younger Pierre Garcon, while Mayfield and Rosen both looked more refined than the other quarterbacks, throwing crisp passes and showing nice touch. Josh Allen and Mike White showed good arm strength, but they need to polish their game as the week goes along.
Next: 3 free agent wide receivers the Redskins should target
Aside from these players, there’s plenty other things to watch in the days leading up to the Senior Bowl. Players will continue to prove their worth to scouts as the days move on, and on Saturday, their efforts will culminate in the annual Senior Bowl. Stay tuned to Riggo’s Rag for day-to-day content on this event!