The Washington Redskins had 10 selections in the 2015 NFL draft. Here’s a closer look at how they’ve contributed:
2015 draft class:
Starters: RG Brandon Scherff (9 starts), WR Jamison Crowder (3), S Kyshoen Jarrett (3).
On the cusp: Linebacker Preston Smith and running back Matt Jones both play quite a bit, but neither is considered the starter. However, with Smith it’s a matter of time as he’s playing behind second-year player Trent Murphy, who has made little impact. Jones has been inconsistent -- not showing enough patience; bouncing runs outside too much -- and has fumbled three times. Otherwise, he might already have replaced Alfred Morris.
Undrafted free agents they like: The Redskins have three undrafted free agents on the roster in linebacker Houston Bates and corners Deshazor Everett and Quinton Dunbar. Bates and Everett could develop into special-teams help. But the Redskins like Dunbar because he has size (6-foot-2), long arms and excellent speed (4.4 40-yard dash at his pro day). Dunbar converted from receiver early in training camp and has a ways to go, but if he develops he has skills that could help.
My take on class: I like it because the Redskins have been able to find contributors all overm and it’s a class that should look better over time. Scherff has improved and should be solid for a while, though I don’t yet see a future All-Pro (as you would hope from a fifth overall choice). I love what Crowder (42 catches) and Jarrett offer, even if they remain starters in nickel packages only. Both are quick, smart and tough. Smith has shown flashes, as has Jones. Both need to develop more, but if they do it will make this an excellent first class for general manager Scot McCloughan. Even those who aren't yet playing much, including guard Arie Kouandjio, have the right disposition and makeup to improve.
Mel Kiper’s take on class: They're happy with Scherff so far; they just need him to become great, considering the draft value and the move to guard. Crowder is second among all rookies in receptions, and Smith is showing his potential. If you didn't know Jones, you do now. This is not a great team, so there were opportunities. But these are good early returns. The biggest question is can Scherff show he can consistently pass protect?