Highlighting a position of need for the Redskins, SI.com's Chris Burke believes the Redskins will select Houston cornerback Williams Jackson III with the 21st pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Could the Washington Redskins snag a quick-rising prospect with the 21st-overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft?
Check out images of cornerback William Jackson III during his collegiate career at Houston.
SI.com's Chris Burke believes it could be a possibility, as he has University of Houston cornerback William Jackson III going to the Redskins in that slot in his most recent mock draft.
"Not that anyone needed convincing, but the fact that Washington could consider several D-linemen here—Kenny Clark, Jarran Reed, Robert Nkemdiche—right *after *a big DT run speaks to that group's strength and depth in this year's draft," Burke writes. "But the top of the cornerback pool is impressive, too. Jackson is no longer flying under the radar after his strong combine (and he shouldn't have been anyway). The Redskins ranked 25th against the pass last season and have very few long-term answers there."
In three seasons for the Cougars, Jackson III appeared in 39 games, recording 115 tackles with 40 passes defensed, eight interceptions, three fumble recoveries and two fumbles forced.
As a senior in 2015, Jackson III earned American Athletic Conference second-team honors along with Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Defensive MVP honors.
The Houston native also led the nation and set a school single-season record for passes defensed with 23.
During the 2014 season, Jackson III first showcased his ability to be a shutdown cornerback, as he started 12 games and accumulated 10 passes defensed along with two interceptions.
In a game against UNLV in September, Jackson III held their top wide receiver, Devante Davis, to just one reception for no yards after he had two 100-yard games prior to the matchup.
After transferring from Trinity Valley Community College, Jackson III saw his first action for Houston in 2013, as he totaled 35 tackles with an interception.
According to his NFL.com draft profile, Jackson III not only has "good height and length," but he "stays low from a smooth backpedal."
"Plays with capable makeup speed when receivers get separation. Can click and close on throws in front of him with acceleration and has makeup speed deep. Possesses ball skills that defensive back coaches covet. Gets his head around to find ball on downfield throws and has excellent disruptive timing when attacking the throw. Instinctive and quick to diagnose and react to his keys. Allowed just 40 percent of passes thrown his way to be completed over last two years. Has feel for routes and will adjust coverage accordingly. Had three interceptions and scored two defensive touchdowns this season," his profile writes.
Jackson impressed during NFL Combine workouts, as his 4.37-second 40-yard dash time was the third best among cornerbacks.
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