With the 38th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Washington has selected Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive end Preston Smith. The 6'5, 271-pounder is considered one of the top edge rushers available in the draft, though a notch behind the elite guys.
2015 NFL Draft results: Washington picks Preston Smith
Smith led Mississippi State with nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss last season.
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A first-team All-SEC lineman in 2014, Smith had an outstanding senior season. His 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks led the team. He also grabbed two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown and forced two fumbles for the Bulldogs last season.
Smith really helped his stock with a strong showing at the combine in February. He ranked first among all defensive linemen in the 3-cone drill (7.07 seconds), and also was among the top five at his position in the 40-yard dash (4.74), broad jump (121.0 inches) and shuttle run (11.7 seconds).
With long arms (34 inches) and impressive power for his frame, Smith can hold his ground against the run and also get to the quarterback off the edge. Although he has a high motor and is very strong at the point of attack, he has only average explosiveness and lacks creativity in his pass-rushing skills, according to scouting reports. However, his versatility to play multiple positions on the line of scrimmage makes him a valuable player for any team with a hybrid 3-4 scheme or 4-3 base defense.
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