Washington Redskins: 5 Second-Round Options In 2017 NFL Draft

1. Obi Melifonwu, SS/CB – UConn

The Redskins have some needs in the secondary. Those needs aren’t as pressing as finding help along the defensive line and more pass-rushers, but you can never have enough defensive backs.

Josh Norman and Bashaud Breeland are the starters. Kendall Fuller, a third-round pick last year, and Quinton Dunbar fill out the depth chart. Dunbar, a former receiver, has been a nice find for the Skins. Fuller started out well in his rookie year, but struggled once receivers discovered his weaknesses. Coaches had him playing out of position last year as the slot cornerback. Fuller should be on the outside.

At safety, the Redskins signed D.J. Swearinger to pair with Su’a Cravens and hope DeAngelo Hall can come back and give them something. Now, Washington needs a fast, athletic and versatile defensive back that can play anywhere in the secondary. Enter Obi Melifonwu.

The four-year starter from Connecticut has experience playing safety and cornerback. And he’s also a physical freak. At 6-4, 224 pounds, Melifonwu also ran a 4.4-second 40-yard dash at the Combine. He was also in outstanding individual drills, showing an ability to turn and run with receivers if teams chose to play him at cornerback.

Next: Redskins: 5 RB Targets In 2017 NFL Draft

The problem with Melifonwu is his tape didn’t always match his measurables. While he had a solid career at UConn, he didn’t always play as fast as he ran. That’s important. He also, at times, didn’t trust his instincts. Those things will probably keep him out of the first round, but he won’t drop too far on the second day of the draft.

If he’s available for the Redskins at No. 49, he’d be a terrific addition to a secondary in need of some speed.