NFL Mock Draft: Full 1st round action

21. Washington Redskins: A’Shawn Robinson – DT – Alabama

Why?: The DT class is very strong this year, and that works out well for the Redskins who had to be pretty disappointed in what they got from Terrance Knighton last year.

The ability of opposing teams to run the ball on them was a large part of why the Skins lost a number of big games.  A’Shawn Robinson is a natural run stopper and should help immediately.

Or the other DT from Bama: Look, this pick needs to be spent on a DT.  If not Robinson, then his partner in crime, Jarran Reed (DT – Alabama) should be the pick.

Granted, there’s a possibility that this is a Julius Peppers/Ryan Sims ordeal, and one of these guys could bust. However, both are quality players if used in the right manner.  And given the need in Washington, it’s worth the risk.

22. Houston Texans: Jarran Reed – DT – Alabama

Why?: The Texans need to rebuild their dominant defense, and that really starts up front for them.  Houston likes to control the line of scrimmage, and that requires some big men with a lot of power.  Reed’s size and strength make him a versatile option who should have no problem finding a home at DT or DE in Romeo Crennel’s 3-4 defense.

Helping out Hopkins: DeAndre Hopkins has emerged as a premier receiving target in the NFL…and did it with a disastrous combo of Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett as his QBs.  However, teams will begin keying in on him even harder, so the Texans have to find a way to balance their offense.  Josh Doctson (WR – TCU) or Corey Coleman (WR – Baylor) would be solid additions to help diversify the offensive attack.

Next: Picks 23-24