The Washington Redskins didn't have anyone on the list last season; now they lead the NFLPA's top-50 rising list with five. Granted, it's more about marketability and sales than predicted performance, but with quarterback Kirk Cousins at No. 2, it's also a sign of how the Redskins are perceived and who might be hot this season.
The real key for Washington isn't how many players are on this list. Rather, it's about their young talent base and if it can build something sustainable. A year ago, when general manager Scot McCloughan arrived, the Redskins had few players under 25 years old who could be considered building blocks.
That doesn't appear to be the case anymore. It's important because these are the players Washington must craft a team capable of long-term success. Too often, veteran free agents were signed, making it seem as if the Redskins could win. However, the foundation was built on quicksand and not concrete. The Redskins are trying the latter approach.
Not all of the under-25 players will succeed, but there are more to choose from than there was 15 months ago. Compare the list below with what I wrote about in January 2015. There's a difference.
Another nugget worth digesting: The Redskins only have eight players 30 and over on their roster. There's no guarantee that all make it onto the final 53-man roster. The Redskins also have 12 players either 26 or 27 years old including left tackle Trent Williams, quarterback Kirk Cousins, linebacker Ryan Kerrigan, linebacker Will Compton and punter Tress Way.
Here's a look at key 25-and-unders who already have played for the Redskins (I'm excluding the rookie class since we haven't seen them play, but clearly some will be on this list next season):
Tight end Jordan Reed (25): It's been well-documented lately what he means to the offense. He's a threat in the red zone and an improved one on third downs. But he's a matchup nightmare; the threat of him plus DeSean Jackson's speed on the outside creates opening for others.
Kicker Dustin Hopkins (25): He's often overlooked in the Redskins acquisitions, but not by general manager Scot McCloughan. He made 25 of 28 field goals and was solid on kickoffs. It's tough with kickers, though, until they do it for a couple of years in a row.
Tackle Morgan Moses (25): He started every game last season -- his improvement was one of the reasons Washington felt OK sliding Brandon Scherff inside. The coaches love Moses' length; he, too, has developed -- the Redskins knew as a rookie he was not ready but that he had a shot.
Guard Spencer Long (25): It's still uncertain if he's a future starter or just a strong backup. He started games at left guard for injured Shawn Lauvao last season. Long might return to the bench this season; or he might start at guard; or they might work him at center to see if he could play there, too.
Running back Chris Thompson (25): He has improved as a third-down back, but durability remains a question mark.
Linebacker Trent Murphy (25): He was never going to be a starter at outside linebacker, despite being a second-round pick. Now he's moving to end, where the Redskins hope he can be more effective. It'll take a year or two to transition. He has solid length, so that helps. But he'll have to keep getting bigger to see if this experiment will work.
Receiver Ryan Grant (25): This is a big year for him, but he'll enter as a fifth receiver at best. Coach Jay Gruden loves Grant and his route-running ability, but he hasn't done much in games over his first two years. He needs a big step up in 2016.
Corner Bashaud Breeland (24): A former fourth-round pick has become a quality starter whose play continues to improve. He's tough and smart.
Guard Brandon Scherff (24): The fifth overall pick in 2015, Scherff was moved from tackle (where he struggled in his limited time there in camp) to guard (where he improved). The latter is probably a stronger fit. He should be around a while.
Guard Arie Kouandjio (24): He hasn't played yet, but he'll be one to watch just because of his strength and disposition (he finishes blocks with an attitude). Kouandjio must show he can also block on the move.
Linebacker Preston Smith (23): He recorded eight sacks as a rookie. But he still has a ways to go to become a consistent pass-rusher. Still, he's long and, well, strong.
Safety Kyshoen Jarrett (23): He had an excellent rookie year, though there's still doubt about when he'll recover from the nerve damage suffered in the regular-season finale. If healthy, he's a solid backup and special teamer.
Running back Matt Jones (23): He'll get the chance this season to prove he's an every-down back; he was an inconsistent runner this past season, but he has size and speed.
Cornerback Quinton Dunbar (23): He made the switch from receiver last training camp and, after an offseason to truly work on his game, it’ll be interesting to see how he develops. The Redskins don’t need him to start, but if he can be a solid fourth corner and quality special teamer they’d be thrilled.
Receiver Jamison Crowder: He was solid as a rookie (59 catches) and there's no reason to think he can't help for a while. He won't be a No. 1 or even No. 2 target, but he can help in the slot, especially as he improves his release from the line of scrimmage.
