Redskins: 3 safety prospects to watch at the 2019 NFL Combine

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KNOXVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 22: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson #23 of the Florida Gators celebrates the win with his teammates and fans after the game between the Florida Gators and Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Florida won the game 47-21. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images) /

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson could very well be the No. 1 safety in the 2019 NFL Draft when the process is complete. He brings a well-rounded skill set that’s visible on tape, and if he can supplement his polish and versatility with a good combine showing, he’ll rise, as the cream of the crop always does.

It doesn’t take long for Gardner-Johnson to stand out on tape, once you start watching. He’s a stocky player with great closing speed and lateral quickness, and as mentioned above, he’s a defensive chess piece on the back end. He can line up in the slot, in the box, and as a deep safety in Cover 2 sets. Gardner-Johnson also has some single high upside, something the Redskins have valued recently.

It’s also worth noting that the Redskins have drafted two defensive players with double last names in the past two drafts: Josh Harvey-Clemons and Shaun Dion Hamilton. Do you guys believe in trends? Because I do.

Next. Redskins first-round options: EDGE Brian Burns. dark

Bad jokes aside, Gardner-Johnson is an ascending prospect, which makes him an attractive get for NFL teams. In 2017, there were lots of inconsistency issues with Gardner-Johnson, but in 2018, he turned a new leaf, and added a new element to his game. His speed allows him to be viable both in coverage and in pursuit, and his versatility will be a coveted aspect of his game. If he compounds it with a good combine showing, he’ll be the first safety off the board.

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