Washington Redskins: 3-Round 2019 mock draft in late December
Round 3: Jalen Jelks, EDGE, Oregon
Ryan Kerrigan is an underrated machine. With yet another season with 10 or more sacks (12), Kerrigan proved he’s one of the more elite rushers in the NFL. Preston Smith is okay opposite of Kerrigan, but not the type of athlete the Redskins need to make their pass rush as dangerous as it could potentially be given the talents of Kerrigan.
Oregon defensive end Jalen Jelks is the type of player ideally suited for the 3-4 outside linebacker spot in the Redskins defense. He played with his hand in the dirt in Eugene, but could easily make the two-point stance transition due to athleticism. Jelks is an athletic rusher with a quick first step. At 6-5, 245 pounds he’s built for a run defender — especially against tackles. Nevertheless, he’s feisty and does a great job attacking the gaps.
Jelks’ best quality is his athleticism. When he gets the jump on a tackle, his arsenal of technique and moves that he uses to get to the quarterback are hard to defend for four quarters.
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Admittedly, this slot may end up being to low to nab Jelks. However, if he’s available, there’s not a quarterback in the draft better than he is as a prospect. If he’s available in the third round, he’s a steal. Jelks can come in right away and excel in Greg Manusky’s defense opposite Kerrigan.