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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 8

By Tyler Brooke

Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

There are a number of directions that the Washington Redskins could go with this pick at No. 19. They could consider adding some help on the offensive line or maybe even some secondary help, but they could also use some more depth on their defensive line.

As a redshirt sophomore, there’s no guarantee that Stanford’s Solomon Thomas declares for the NFL draft. However, if he does, then Thomas could be a great fit in the Redskins 3-4 defensive scheme.

What stands out the most for Thomas is his violent hands, which he uses to disengage from would-be blockers. He’s technically sound and does a great job of maintaining leverage to make up for his smaller frame (6’3”, 273 pounds).

As a five-tech defensive end, Thomas could wreak havoc on opposing offenses, whether that’s by generating pressure on the passer or stuffing rushing lanes. For Washington, that’s all they can ask for.

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