The assumption, for a while now, has been that Washington would select Oklahoma State left tackle Russell Okung with the fourth pick in the NFL draft. It’s no longer safe to make that prediction.
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Indeed, if the Redskins pick a tackle at No. 4, they could opt for Oklahoma offensive lineman Trent Williams rather than Okung. Williams moved to left tackle this past fall, but struggled at times (in part because of injuries).
But there is a belief that Williams is more athletic and therefore has a higher upside. And those who know Redskins coach Mike Shanahan say that when it comes to drafting, he selects players based on their upside. He wants guys to flash greatness. And he loves athletic tackles.
The problem with Williams is the intangibles. He’s been described in draft publications as lazy and selfish and Pro Football Weekly wrote that he might be a bit of a “diva.”
One NFL source said of Williams, “He is more of a flasher and has more upside, but Okung is the safer pick. … I think they are leaning toward Williams.”
However, Russ Lande, a former NFL scout who is The Sporting News’ draft analyst, said, “I don’t see how they don’t go with Okung. He’s so athletic. Though he has deficiencies in other areas, he’s a perfect fit. He’s so athletic, he can make cut blocks and he can move. He can do all the things Shanny wants from his left tackle.”
And ESPN’s Mel Kiper said, “Some games [Williams] did not play to the level of his talent. You lose a little bit by not taking Okung.”
