The projections started long ago and will continue to change until, well, the draft is over. And whom the Redskins take could change by the day.
Then again, after the NFL Scouting Combine, which started Wednesday, their interest in certain players will rise — or fall.
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Here are five players the Redskins could be eyeing for their first-round pick (21st overall), based partly on how they do at the combine:
Calais Campbell, Miami, DE » One scout compared him to Mario Williams, the No. 1 pick in 2006. He described the 6-foot-8 Campbell as a “freak of an athlete.” But his lack of production in some games is the primary reason why he might be available. Campbell’s agent, Gary Wichard, is a longtime friend of Vinny Cerrato, the Redskins executive vice president of football operations.
Lawrence Jackson, USC, DE » He needs a good showing after a poor week during the Senior Bowl. That’s dropped him to a second-round projection. But, with 30 1/2 career sacks, he was productive. Florida’s Derrick Harvey might be a better option, though he could be gone by 21.
Quentin Groves, Auburn, DE » Groves might end up playing outside linebacker in a 3-4. One league source said the Redskins liked him an awful lot early, but cooled on him after some interviews. He could easily drop to the second round.
Jeff Otah, Pitt, OT » Could easily be gone by the time Washington picks. With right tackle Jon Jansen coming off his second season-ending injury in four seasons, Otah could fill a need here. He also can play left tackle.
Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma, WR » At 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, he could provide the big receiver Washington lacks. He was adept at breaking tackles in college and considered a good route-runner. But he only caught two passes in the red zone as a senior.
