Best prospects Redskins could target in third round 2020 NFL Draft

1. WR Laviska Shenault, Colorado

At one point, it seemed likely that Laviska Shenault would be a first-round pick. Now, it looks more likely that he’ll go in the second round. But could he last until the Redskins’ pick at 66? Don’t count it out.

Shenault has a well-built 6-foot-1, 227-pound frame and figures to be a good vertical threat at the NFL level. He plays faster than his 4.58 40-time, tracks the ball well, and can make contested catches. He’s versatile, having played all three receiver spots at Colorado, and can take the ball on direct snaps out of the backfield as well.

So, why could Shenault possibly fall to the third round? Simple. He’s had durability concerns at Colorado that may impact his draft status. Due to COVID-19, prospect visits and medical rechecks haven’t been able to happen. That will have a detrimental impact on a guy like Shenault, as teams would’ve probably liked to a medical exam performed by a team doctor before committing an early resource to him. So, he could drop a bit further than expected.

It also doesn’t help that Shenault isn’t the best route runner. Perhaps he just needs to be coached up in that area, but usually, players that aren’t great route runners see their stock dip a bit.

Shenault’s ceiling is enticing though. And as a versatile weapon to pair with Terry McLaurin and Steven Sims Jr., the Redskins should absolutely target him if he falls into their laps at 66. This is by no means a guarantee, but a similar thing happened to Keenan Allen in the 2013 NFL Draft. He was viewed by many as a potential first-round pick but slipped to the third due to injury concerns.

Perhaps Shenault will be the next Allen. If so, the Redskins could surely reap the rewards if he’s on the board when their second pick rolls around. But if Shenault is off the board, there will be plenty of other receivers to choose from. And maybe, if they’re lucky, Chase Claypool will somehow slip to their selection.