Redskins need help from 2011 draft class

The Washington Redskins' 2011 draft yielded 12 players. Only nine remain on the roster and linebacker Ryan Kerrigan stands out because he is the only one to earn a starting spot.

Kerrigan could get some company if Mike Shanahan names Evan Royster or Roy Helu as the starting running back. 

Here are three other second-year players who could play key roles: 

DE Jarvis Jenkins -- He looked strong this summer, displaying the ability to power blockers into the backfield. He will play a lot in nickel situations, which will give nose tackle Barry Cofield a break on passing downs. Jenkins must learn to use his leverage better, but he should help the interior line.

WR Leonard Hankerson -- The coaches remain high on Hankerson but he needs to show why. He had a slow preseason which could be attributed to his recovery from a torn labrum in 2011. Free agent signee Josh Morgan outshined Hankerson in training camp and that's the reason he is listed as the starter at the Z position.

TE Niles Paul  -- Paul converted from receiver and gives the Redskins a speedy player at tight end. Starter Fred Davis is a terrific athlete but Paul's quickness in the zone blocking system seems to obstruct defenders a great deal. He’s still adapting to getting of the ball from the F-back position. Paul has yet prove he's a quality receiving threat, but he’s a fantastic special teams player -- especially at gunner.