Texas Recruiting Notes 2020

[LTtxfan 49142]

Bobby Burton on Freshman...   Thx @utexas8

I got the low down on all of the Texas freshman yesterday and how they have been perceived internally.  We’ll go quickly position-by-position.

At QB, Hudson Card came out of the gate strong. He understood the offense, whereas Ja’Quinden Jackson struggled in his first couple of weeks on campus with the nuances of the position.

Card throws crisp passes and makes quick decisions. He is considered the best thrower on the roster, and that includes Sam Ehlinger.

Jackson, on the other hand, has really come on of late. He is starting to look like a real long-term option at QB because he has been a relatively quick study and because he is so talented. Props were given to both Jackson for his effort and attention to detail and QB coach Mike Yurcich for Jackson’s development and consistent approach even when Jackson clearly would not play much this season.

Suffice to say, the existing Texas staff is extremely excited with the freshman QBs.

At running back, Bijan Robinson is the most explosive back on the team and perhaps in the conference. He is also a team-leader type, and that could be very valuable in the long run. When a team’s best players are actually the best teammates, good things tend to happen.

The wide receivers in the 2020 class are a bit of a mixed bag. Troy Omeire literally wowed the coaches in fall camp. As outside receivers for Texas have struggled to get off press coverage this season, Omeire is considered the answer. Coaches don’t expect him to merely be good, they think he is a different breed. Words truly can not express how dominant the coaches think Omeire can be. Sometimes players walk onto the field and they’re just different. That’s Omeire.

Kelvontay Dixon has shown some ability and is still considered a good take for the Horns. Dajon Harrison is a different situation. His decision, following an injury, to opt out really kind of took the coaching staff by surprise and disappointed them. It’s an unnecessary lost year of development for him.

Along the OL, Herb Hand struck gold at center. Jake Majors is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get type of player. The staff expects Majors to be an eventual team captain and multi-year starter. Likewise, Andrej Karic has already pushed up the depth chart to become a factor. The question is not whether Karic will be a contributor or starter for the Horns over the long term, it’s at what position. Will he be good enough to play left tackle, or is he tailor-made for a right tackle spot?

Unfortunately, just like a prospector sometimes hits gold, he sometimes gets less than rosy results. It’s way too early to write off Logan Parr by any means, but early results are the expectation of that of a late-career starter or solid back-up. And perhaps the worst news is that Jaylon Garth may very well end up being a medical opt out in time. His initial injury was severe and it just isn’t coming around as much as all had hoped. Again, it’s way too early to write offensive linemen off because of the development time they take, but that’s where those two sit currently.

On the defensive front, Alfred Collins has already played in every game and is a known commodity. One coach called him the best young DL talent he’s ever been around. Vernon Broughton is expected to be a terrific interior pass rusher in the long run. His combo of burst and size make him an ideal threat to get after the QB. Sawyer Goram-Welch is considered one of the finds of the class. While he is currently playing DT, he could move over to offense in the off-season and try his hand at either guard or tackle. Coaches really like his motor, toughness and better-than-anticipated athleticism.

At linebacker, Jaylan Ford has stepped into a potential heir apparent as the most talented linebacker on the team. Coaches like his combo of football smarts, size and relative quickness. They also think he’s football tough. Ford will likely end up a multi-year starter for the Horns. Jayden Hullaby and Prince Dorbah are the other two LBs in the class. Dorbah has plus-ability but coaches would like him to show more tenacity and a greater commitment in his desire to develop as a player. Hullaby is different in that regard. He’s considered a blue collar, lunch pail type. He will strike you and he has no problem giving it everything he’s got on every play.

In the secondary, Kitan Crawford, Xavian Alford, and Jerrin Thompson all have the cut of future starters. Coaches are particularly high of late on Crawford and Alford as they have shown signs of growing into their plus-athleticism with more and more practice reps. Thompson is considered a savvy football player. Alford was singled out as a potential captain-type long term. Crawford is the most physically gifted of the group. That leaves Jahdae Barron, who has already seen significant action on special teams. Barron has some work ahead of him to define his role better but he has the requisite talent to be a contributor and possible starter

[TommyGufano 6021]

Class was all over the field Saturday. With the qualifier that the opposition stunk, it looked like there were a lot of players worth being excited over

[Thiefery 4995]

54 minutes ago, longhornmatt said:

It’s a much, much better class than the 2019 class.  If one of the QBs hit, we will still be in a pretty good situation with the roster for the next couple of years even with a weaker 2021 class.  It might fall off a cliff after that, though, if the 2022 class isn’t a good one.

I think the defensive class as of now for '21 is still pretty solid, but the offense .. ouch.  

[Elmer_Fudd 22198]

Jaylen Garth seems to be going down the Pat Hudson path.  Shame, I thought he would potentially be a stud for us.

[Wulaw Horn 19064]

One bad class in the age of the portal is much less of a big deal than some of you think bc this freshman class is bad. 2 bad classes is a huge problem. We are killing it in 22 right? 

[Hiphopopotamos 20869]

30 minutes ago, Thiefery said:

I think the defensive class as of now for '21 is still pretty solid, but the offense .. ouch.  

Offense is going to require some heavy portal action.

[Elmer_Fudd 22198]

1 hour ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

Offense is going to require some heavy portal action.

The OL class in 20' so far is going along about how we all expected.  2 who will probably be multi year starters and real good (Karic/Majors), 1 that may/may not be serviceable at best (Parr), and 1 that may never play a down due to injury (Garth).  Combine that with the bad 21' haul and we'll be looking for GT/JUCO's/portal for the foreseeable future.

[TommyGufano 6021]

1 hour ago, Wulaw Horn said:

One bad class in the age of the portal is much less of a big deal than some of you think bc this freshman class is bad. 2 bad classes is a huge problem. We are killing it in 22 right? 

... Our one commit is def good. Don't know that I'd say the trend line suggests "killing it"

The QB we lost would have been damn nice to hold onto. I feel like opinions on Phaizon Wilson were a bit split around here.

[Dijon Robinson 1511]

54 minutes ago, Elmer_Fudd said:

The OL class in 20' so far is going along about how we all expected.  2 who will probably be multi year starters and real good (Karic/Majors), 1 that may/may not be serviceable at best (Parr), and 1 that may never play a down due to injury (Garth).  Combine that with the bad 21' haul and we'll be looking for GT/JUCO's/portal for the foreseeable future.

Wait, remind me why we're so down on Garth all of a sudden? ACL injures are no joke but was there some recent news I missed about a setback or something?

[TommyGufano 6021]

10 minutes ago, ChampionshipLevelPiss said:

Wait, remind me why we're so down on Garth all of a sudden? ACL injures are no joke but was there some recent news I missed about a setback or something?

Because Bobby Burton is told so

Quote

And perhaps the worst news is that Jaylon Garth may very well end up being a medical opt out in time. His initial injury was severe and it just isn’t coming around as much as all had hoped. Again, it’s way too early to write offensive linemen off because of the development time they take, but that’s where those two sit currently.

 

[Wulaw Horn 19064]

34 minutes ago, TommyGufano said:

... Our one commit is def good. Don't know that I'd say the trend line suggests "killing it"

The QB we lost would have been damn nice to hold onto. I feel like opinions on Phaizon Wilson were a bit split around here.

That was sarcasm. That’s the class that’s going to royally fuck us. We’d be ok if 2021 finishes meh like this. But we need someone to get after it and have a good first year coach bounce for 22 was my point. 

[Dijon Robinson 1511]

20 minutes ago, TommyGufano said:

Because Bobby Burton is told so

 

Fuck, that's tough.

[Sir Ulrich 5187]

Ty Jordan having a great game for Utah right now. Could have used him with Ingram possibly leaving after this year 

[Chopper 17230]

On 12/12/2020 at 12:05 PM, Sir Ulrich said:

Ty Jordan having a great game for Utah right now. Could have used him with Ingram possibly leaving after this year 

RIP Ty Jordan. Wow. Horrible news. Seemed like a good kid. Edit - reports are it was an accidental discharge of a gun.

Utah football star Ty Jordan has died | ABC4 Utah

 

 

 

Edited December 26, 2020 by Chopper

[futureman 22441]

On 1/2/2020 at 3:34 PM, MoJames said:

Ok so we are taking bets on which WR will step up out of 

Eagles

Moore

Washington

Smith

Woodard

 

I'll take Washington.

On 1/2/2020 at 3:36 PM, Ricky's one-hitter said:

Eagles and Smith have the potential to be phenomenal.

Give me Kennedy Lewis.

pay up, bitch. 

[Junior Bonner 6242]

5 minutes ago, futureman said:

pay up, bitch. 

Hang on a minute. Are you saying people remember what we say on here? And hold us accountable? 

[BurntOrange&White 39930]

9 minutes ago, Junior Bonner said:

Hang on a minute. Are you saying people remember what we say on here? And hold us accountable? 

Surly does petty 

[BurntOrange&White 39930]

On 1/2/2020 at 3:37 PM, Hiphopopotamos said:

Troy Omiere is going to play early.  That kid doesn't have any speed but he's a damn good route runner and has really good hands (no katfid).  I think he may get a decent amount of targets as a true freshman.

 

As for which WR has a big year next year - give me Washington.

Hiphop 

[BurntOrange&White 39930]

On 1/2/2020 at 6:38 PM, SydneyCarton said:

Just stopping in to remind everyone that Westcott Eberts is a colossal faget. Big time felcher. 

Still true

[Dbeasy 15040]

On 2/27/2019 at 10:48 AM, Bevo said:

How good is Jaxon Smith-Njigba?

 

Pretty fucking good

[cashman 20]

Fuck Tom Herman

[squeegeedegg 723]

7 minutes ago, cashman said:

Fuck Tom Herman

Don't forget about Drew

[texifornia 56856]

If yall don't practice selective deaf-blindness while watching Ohio State or Bama games I have no idea how yall get through a whole fall of Saturdays.

[CHEF RIBS W/ THE HAMM YALL 1258]

34 minutes ago, Dbeasy said:

Pretty fucking good

Ok great, but that was against... *checks notes*... Utah? Are they any good?

He may be good, but is he TEXAS good? We need difference makers from the portal. Who can catch the ball, to start.

[Wulaw Horn 19064]

On 12/11/2020 at 11:04 AM, Wulaw Horn said:

That was sarcasm. That’s the class that’s going to royally fuck us. We’d be ok if 2021 finishes meh like this. But we need someone to get after it and have a good first year coach bounce for 22 was my point. 

And we got it

[Hornlover 8827]

ESPN did a re-rank of the 2020 recruiting class. Spoiler Alert - Bijan is #4. The top 5 is:

1. Bryce Young

2. Will Anderson

3. Jordan Addison

4. Bijan Robinson 

5. CJ Stroud

Texas' 2020 class did not make the top 10 in the re-rank. 

https://www.espn.com/college-football/insider/story/_/id/34790037/re-ranking-college-football-2020-recruiting-class-best-25-recruits-top-10-teams#recruits

Spoiler

Oct 19, 2022

Craig Haubert Tom Luginbill
College football's 2020 recruiting class certainly had some misses starting at the top. While wide receiver Julian Fleming and defensive end Desmond Evans, ranked as the Nos. 1 and 2 recruits out of high school in the ESPN 300, are solid contributors, neither has been an immediate-impact difference-maker like projected.

As some of the elite high school talent from this class might not have impacted the college game yet, others have risen to greater heights, namely Jordan Addison, who went from the No. 57-rated receiver as a recruit to No. 1.

Recruiting is far from an exact science, and the emergence of the transfer portal gives players their own ability to redo their college decision without having to sit out a year for a better opportunity at reaching their potential. Addison is an example of that, as is Jahmyr Gibbs, who went from Georgia Tech to Alabama and from the No. 19 RB to No. 2 on our rerank.

The 2020 cycle also ended with Dabo Swinney locking down his first No. 1 class. Behind Clemson were Georgia, Alabama, LSU and Ohio State. Alabama is the only team of those five to make the College Football Playoff both years. LSU, on the other hand, has gone 16-14 since landing the No. 4 class, parting ways with coach Ed Orgeron during that time as well.

Below, we examine how different the 2020 recruiting cycle would look if we reranked players based on their college production. We break down what the top 25 players and top 10 classes from the 2020 cycle would look like knowing what we know now.

1. Bryce Young, QB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 5 (No. 1 QB-DT)

Coming off a 455-yard heroic passing performance in a loss vs. Tennessee, Young has been as advertised in every facet. He took Alabama to the national championship game and won the Heisman Trophy in his first full season as a starter. He has proven time and again that he is a rare difference-maker with elite passing skills and extremely high football instincts. The former five-star quarterback is on pace to eclipse 7,000 career passing yards in his junior season. Young is currently ranked as a top-three QB prospect in the 2023 draft.

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six games, Stroud is not sneaking up on anyone anymore.

 

 

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six 

6. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 91 (No. 10 WR)

All the talk coming out of the Ohio State class in 2020 was WR Julian Fleming, the No. 1 recruit overall, and while he might very well materialize if he can stay healthy, the game-changer is Smith-Njigba. We saw the great size, elite quickness and explosiveness but questioned his top-end speed. He has had no issues separating as a route runner. When healthy, the 6-1, 200-pound Smith-Njigba is the best wide receiver in college football, as evidenced by his 347-yard, three-touchdown performance in last season's Rose Bowl. He injured his hamstring in the season-opener against Notre Dame and has appeared in only one other game this year, and Ohio State is being cautious with his return as the Buckeyes look to get back to the College Football Playoff.

7. Jalen Carter, DT
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 12 (No. 2 DT)

The Bulldogs' defense has remained very stout despite having five players selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, and returning an impact player in the trenches in Carter is a big reason. Initially a tight end prospect who physically outgrew the position, he maintained excellent quickness, agility and balance as he added mass. That blend of size (6-3, 300), explosiveness and mobility, coupled with a highly competitive demeanor, has allowed him to become one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in college football. Carter is the consensus No. 1 defensive tackle on ESPN's 2023 draft board.

8. Bryan Bresee, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 3 (No. 1 DT)

Pound for pound, the 6-5, 305-pound Bresee has been in discussion as college football's best defensive tackle since his freshman year, when he totaled four sacks and a fumble recovery for a Clemson defense that reached the College Football Playoff. Though he missed most of last season because of a torn ACL and dealt with a non-football medical issue earlier this month, he is a consistent and dominant force when he is on the field. He has shown he can play every position up front with unmatched quickness at the position.

9. BJ Ojulari, DE
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 122 (No. 13 DE)

Ojulari wasn't the most high-profile name for a loaded Marietta High School (Georgia) state championship team that sent multiple players to Power 5 programs, but he has proven to be the most impactful. Ojulari is a lengthy, rangy edge defender with excellent initial quickness who went from an immediate contributor in his first year to a starter and leading pass-rusher in Year 2. Despite the Tigers' struggles and coaching changes, he has remained a constant bright spot in Baton Rouge. Ojulari is among Jordan Reid's top five draft-eligible defensive ends.

10. Peter Skoronski, OT
Northwestern | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 150 (No. 19 OT)

As Northwestern's top commit in its 2020 class, ESPN 300 OT Skoronski has not disappointed. We underestimated his ability but saw high physical upside. Skoronski has packed on 50 pounds of muscle and retained his skills. He plays with good quickness, agility and balance, and was able to make an immediate impact for the Wildcats. The 6-4, 315-pound left tackle has started since Day 1 and become a two-time All-Big Ten selection who is rated among the top NFL offensive line draft prospects.

11. Myles Murphy, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 13 (No. 4 DE)

The Tigers' No. 1 class in the 2020 cycle was anchored by an excellent group of defensive linemen that included Bresee and Murphy, both five-star prospects. Murphy earned freshman All-America honors and was named ACC Co-Newcomer of the Year with three sacks and 18 total tackles. As a sophomore, he continued to be a disruptive presence, as he led the team in sacks (seven) and tackles for loss (14). The highly touted and productive Murphy is again ranked closely behind Bresee among draft prospects.

12. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 178 (No. 19 RB)

Gibbs, who spent his first two years at Georgia Tech before transferring to Tuscaloosa, reminds us so much of former Alabama standout Josh Jacobs. Jacobs was another back whose versatility we undervalued out of high school. Gibbs is arguably Tide's most dynamic player on offense. He entered the transfer portal to face high-caliber competition, and the decision paid off. Gibbs' greatest asset this year might have been shouldering the load when Bryce Young went down, as his 226 yards from scrimmage paced Alabama past Arkansas, and he recorded 154 rushing yards in a win against Texas A&M. He is an every-down back who can do it all. Gibbs is a consensus top-three running back on ESPN's NFL draft board.

13. Michael Mayer, TE
Notre Dame | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 81 (No. 3 TE-Y)

Notre Dame has developed a rich history at tight end, and Mayer quickly established himself as another great player at the position for the Fighting Irish. A big target with good hands and body control, Mayer was a talented route runner coming out of high school and finished his freshman year as a team leader in receptions. He built upon that in his sophomore season with a team-high 71 catches and is the focal point in Notre Dame's passing attack as a junior. He has established himself as the likely first tight end selected when he enters the NFL draft.

Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, originally the third-ranked tight end in the 2020 recruiting cycle, has cemented himself as the class' No. 1 tight end and a potential first-round draft pick. Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

14. Kayshon Boutte, WR
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 33 (No. 3 WR)

When he's healthy, Boutte has shown to be among the best in the country, especially as a route runner. Consistency has been the issue with Boutte, but when he's on, he can dominate as of the most explosive players in college football. Coming off his first 100-yard performance of the season against Florida on Saturday, Boutte is physical with strong hands when contested and has traits similar to former LSU great Ja'Marr Chase.

15. Devon Achane, RB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 200 (No. 13 ATH)

Dynamic would be the best way to describe Achane both now and when he was coming out of high school. He's a flash of speed who can line up anywhere on the field to create mismatches. We can only imagine how much better his numbers would be if Texas A&M had stability at quarterback. We saw great versatility when he was a recruit, but he has shown great big-play speed and explosiveness in College Station, as evidenced by his 16 career rushing scores, three receiving touchdowns and two kickoff return touchdowns. Achane is Mel Kiper Jr.'s No. 5 running back.

16. Nick Herbig, LB
Wisconsin | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 144 (No. 13)

The road from tropical Hawai'i to Wisconsin might not seem like a natural pipeline, but Herbig has made it seem like a natural fit. The top-rated player in his home state, he was among the top linebackers overall in the 2020 class as an instinctive, high-motor defender. He worked his way into a starting role as a freshman and was one of the most disruptive defenders in the Big Ten last season with nine sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. He currently leads the Big Ten in sacks with his lighting quickness closing on quarterbacks. He's moving his way up to a Day 1 draft grade.

17. Antonio Johnson, DB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 211 (No. 12 S)

One of 12 ESPN 300 signings by the Aggies in 2020, Johnson has developed into one of two key secondary additions in that class, along with Jaylon Jones. Initially ranked behind Jones, Johnson has proved that order should be reversed. After contributing as a freshman, Johnson became a consistent and top starter for the Aggies last season, ranking second on the team in total tackles (79). The 6-3, 195-pound junior, the consensus No. 1 safety in next year's draft class, leads the Aggies in tackles (48) this year.

18. Blake Corum, RB
Michigan | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 120 (No. 13 RB)

College football's second-leading rusher has exceeded our expectations as an every-down running back. Corum has always been fast and talented, but his measurables were less than ideal (5-8, 210). He's still on the shorter side but not necessarily small -- and there is a difference. Corum's powerful lower body and leverage have allowed him to succeed tackle to tackle, and his top-end speed is still elite when he breaks into the second level. He's starting to improve his draft stock and create legitimate Heisman buzz as Michigan seeks its second straight CFP appearance.

19. Josh Downs, WR
North Carolina | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 188 (No. 29 WR)

Downs' lower stock out of high school wasn't so much a reflection of his talent as it was his size at 5-9, 165 pounds. However, he has proven to play "big" in every sense of the word. He's an elite route runner and a nightmare in space for opposing defenses. We believe he is going to have a big second half of the season with more games like Saturday, when he had nine catches for 126 yards against Duke. Downs is Kiper's No. 5 wide receiver.

North Carolina junior wide receiver Josh Downs has 145 career receptions for 1,879 yards and 16 touchdowns. Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

20. Jaylon Jones, CB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 35 (No. 3 CB)

Jones has been injured but also unbelievably productive when on the field, especially as a young player. The game has never been too big for him, and he was college ready from the day he arrived in College Station given his size (6-1, 190) and 4.6 speed. We expect his draft stock to also rise as his play becomes more consistent. His physical talent is as good as any cornerback in college football.

21. Kelee Ringo, CB
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 8 (No. 1 CB)

Ringo, the No. 1-ranked corner in the 2020 class, would be ranked higher if he had a fuller body of work. But after redshirting his freshman year because of shoulder surgery, he has shown he is among the most elite players in his class. He was a key contributor and starter on the Bulldogs' stifling national championship defense last year, his 79-yard pick-six clinching their first title since 1980. On a defense that still is among the SEC's best against the pass, Ringo looks poised to be another Georgia defender to be picked in the first round. He is Todd McShay's top-rated cornerback in next year's draft class.

22. Noah Sewell, LB
Oregon | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 27 (No. 3 LB)

Sewell was one of two-high profile linebackers Oregon signed in 2020. While five-star Justin Flowe has flashed but battled injuries, Sewell has shined immediately. He led the team in tackles and was named Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year in 2020. Last season, Sewell's 114 total tackles were second in the Pac-12 and he became the first player in program history to be named a Butkus Award semifinalist. Sewell, McShay's No. 1 inside linebacker prospect, has 24 tackles this season for Oregon, which has won five straight heading into a matchup against an undefeated UCLA team this week.

23. Marvin Mims, WR
Oklahoma | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 161 (No. 24 WR)

An Under Armour All-American coming out high school, Mims has been a key target in the Sooners' high-powered passing attack since arriving in Norman. He earned freshman All-America honors and has led the offense in receiving in each of his first two seasons. (He is on his way again with a team-high 542 yards so far this year.) Whether Spencer Rattler, Caleb Williams or Dillon Gabriel is under center, Mims remains a prominent piece in the Sooners' offense. He has totaled 1,857 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his career.

24. Quentin Johnson, WR
TCU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 63 (No. 7 WR)

Johnson is leading one of the most prolific offenses in the country on a 6-0 TCU team. He is a problem for opposing defenses with his sudden get-off and ability to reach top speed quickly. Getting Johnson the ball consistently prior to the arrival of coach Sonny Dykes was difficult. He is coming off an eight-reception, 180-yard performance in this weekend's upset of Oklahoma State. We expect these types of performances are going to raise his draft stock.

25. Tank Bigsby, RB
Auburn | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 20 (No. 2 RB)

The aptly named Tank was among the top running backs in the 2020 class and quickly established himself as one of college football's best. A thickly built powerful runner with good balance and agility, he made an immediate impact, earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors. Bigsby ran for more than 1,000 yards last season and is versatile with good receiving skills, as he remains a key playmaker in the Tigers' offense in 2022. He is coming off a 179-yard, two-touchdown performance against Ole Miss.

 

Edited October 21, 2022 by Hornlover

[TheFlyingBoat 906]

3 hours ago, Hornlover said:

ESPN did a re-rank of the 2020 recruiting class. Spoiler Alert - Bijan is #4. The top 5 is:

1. Bryce Young

2. Will Anderson

3. Jordan Addison

4. Bijan Robinson 

5. CJ Stroud

Texas' 2020 class did not make the top 10 in the re-rank. 

https://www.espn.com/college-football/insider/story/_/id/34790037/re-ranking-college-football-2020-recruiting-class-best-25-recruits-top-10-teams#recruits

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Oct 19, 2022

Craig Haubert Tom Luginbill
College football's 2020 recruiting class certainly had some misses starting at the top. While wide receiver Julian Fleming and defensive end Desmond Evans, ranked as the Nos. 1 and 2 recruits out of high school in the ESPN 300, are solid contributors, neither has been an immediate-impact difference-maker like projected.

As some of the elite high school talent from this class might not have impacted the college game yet, others have risen to greater heights, namely Jordan Addison, who went from the No. 57-rated receiver as a recruit to No. 1.

Recruiting is far from an exact science, and the emergence of the transfer portal gives players their own ability to redo their college decision without having to sit out a year for a better opportunity at reaching their potential. Addison is an example of that, as is Jahmyr Gibbs, who went from Georgia Tech to Alabama and from the No. 19 RB to No. 2 on our rerank.

The 2020 cycle also ended with Dabo Swinney locking down his first No. 1 class. Behind Clemson were Georgia, Alabama, LSU and Ohio State. Alabama is the only team of those five to make the College Football Playoff both years. LSU, on the other hand, has gone 16-14 since landing the No. 4 class, parting ways with coach Ed Orgeron during that time as well.

Below, we examine how different the 2020 recruiting cycle would look if we reranked players based on their college production. We break down what the top 25 players and top 10 classes from the 2020 cycle would look like knowing what we know now.

1. Bryce Young, QB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 5 (No. 1 QB-DT)

Coming off a 455-yard heroic passing performance in a loss vs. Tennessee, Young has been as advertised in every facet. He took Alabama to the national championship game and won the Heisman Trophy in his first full season as a starter. He has proven time and again that he is a rare difference-maker with elite passing skills and extremely high football instincts. The former five-star quarterback is on pace to eclipse 7,000 career passing yards in his junior season. Young is currently ranked as a top-three QB prospect in the 2023 draft.

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six games, Stroud is not sneaking up on anyone anymore.

 

 

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six 

6. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 91 (No. 10 WR)

All the talk coming out of the Ohio State class in 2020 was WR Julian Fleming, the No. 1 recruit overall, and while he might very well materialize if he can stay healthy, the game-changer is Smith-Njigba. We saw the great size, elite quickness and explosiveness but questioned his top-end speed. He has had no issues separating as a route runner. When healthy, the 6-1, 200-pound Smith-Njigba is the best wide receiver in college football, as evidenced by his 347-yard, three-touchdown performance in last season's Rose Bowl. He injured his hamstring in the season-opener against Notre Dame and has appeared in only one other game this year, and Ohio State is being cautious with his return as the Buckeyes look to get back to the College Football Playoff.

7. Jalen Carter, DT
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 12 (No. 2 DT)

The Bulldogs' defense has remained very stout despite having five players selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, and returning an impact player in the trenches in Carter is a big reason. Initially a tight end prospect who physically outgrew the position, he maintained excellent quickness, agility and balance as he added mass. That blend of size (6-3, 300), explosiveness and mobility, coupled with a highly competitive demeanor, has allowed him to become one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in college football. Carter is the consensus No. 1 defensive tackle on ESPN's 2023 draft board.

8. Bryan Bresee, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 3 (No. 1 DT)

Pound for pound, the 6-5, 305-pound Bresee has been in discussion as college football's best defensive tackle since his freshman year, when he totaled four sacks and a fumble recovery for a Clemson defense that reached the College Football Playoff. Though he missed most of last season because of a torn ACL and dealt with a non-football medical issue earlier this month, he is a consistent and dominant force when he is on the field. He has shown he can play every position up front with unmatched quickness at the position.

9. BJ Ojulari, DE
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 122 (No. 13 DE)

Ojulari wasn't the most high-profile name for a loaded Marietta High School (Georgia) state championship team that sent multiple players to Power 5 programs, but he has proven to be the most impactful. Ojulari is a lengthy, rangy edge defender with excellent initial quickness who went from an immediate contributor in his first year to a starter and leading pass-rusher in Year 2. Despite the Tigers' struggles and coaching changes, he has remained a constant bright spot in Baton Rouge. Ojulari is among Jordan Reid's top five draft-eligible defensive ends.

10. Peter Skoronski, OT
Northwestern | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 150 (No. 19 OT)

As Northwestern's top commit in its 2020 class, ESPN 300 OT Skoronski has not disappointed. We underestimated his ability but saw high physical upside. Skoronski has packed on 50 pounds of muscle and retained his skills. He plays with good quickness, agility and balance, and was able to make an immediate impact for the Wildcats. The 6-4, 315-pound left tackle has started since Day 1 and become a two-time All-Big Ten selection who is rated among the top NFL offensive line draft prospects.

11. Myles Murphy, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 13 (No. 4 DE)

The Tigers' No. 1 class in the 2020 cycle was anchored by an excellent group of defensive linemen that included Bresee and Murphy, both five-star prospects. Murphy earned freshman All-America honors and was named ACC Co-Newcomer of the Year with three sacks and 18 total tackles. As a sophomore, he continued to be a disruptive presence, as he led the team in sacks (seven) and tackles for loss (14). The highly touted and productive Murphy is again ranked closely behind Bresee among draft prospects.

12. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 178 (No. 19 RB)

Gibbs, who spent his first two years at Georgia Tech before transferring to Tuscaloosa, reminds us so much of former Alabama standout Josh Jacobs. Jacobs was another back whose versatility we undervalued out of high school. Gibbs is arguably Tide's most dynamic player on offense. He entered the transfer portal to face high-caliber competition, and the decision paid off. Gibbs' greatest asset this year might have been shouldering the load when Bryce Young went down, as his 226 yards from scrimmage paced Alabama past Arkansas, and he recorded 154 rushing yards in a win against Texas A&M. He is an every-down back who can do it all. Gibbs is a consensus top-three running back on ESPN's NFL draft board.

13. Michael Mayer, TE
Notre Dame | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 81 (No. 3 TE-Y)

Notre Dame has developed a rich history at tight end, and Mayer quickly established himself as another great player at the position for the Fighting Irish. A big target with good hands and body control, Mayer was a talented route runner coming out of high school and finished his freshman year as a team leader in receptions. He built upon that in his sophomore season with a team-high 71 catches and is the focal point in Notre Dame's passing attack as a junior. He has established himself as the likely first tight end selected when he enters the NFL draft.

Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, originally the third-ranked tight end in the 2020 recruiting cycle, has cemented himself as the class' No. 1 tight end and a potential first-round draft pick. Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

14. Kayshon Boutte, WR
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 33 (No. 3 WR)

When he's healthy, Boutte has shown to be among the best in the country, especially as a route runner. Consistency has been the issue with Boutte, but when he's on, he can dominate as of the most explosive players in college football. Coming off his first 100-yard performance of the season against Florida on Saturday, Boutte is physical with strong hands when contested and has traits similar to former LSU great Ja'Marr Chase.

15. Devon Achane, RB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 200 (No. 13 ATH)

Dynamic would be the best way to describe Achane both now and when he was coming out of high school. He's a flash of speed who can line up anywhere on the field to create mismatches. We can only imagine how much better his numbers would be if Texas A&M had stability at quarterback. We saw great versatility when he was a recruit, but he has shown great big-play speed and explosiveness in College Station, as evidenced by his 16 career rushing scores, three receiving touchdowns and two kickoff return touchdowns. Achane is Mel Kiper Jr.'s No. 5 running back.

16. Nick Herbig, LB
Wisconsin | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 144 (No. 13)

The road from tropical Hawai'i to Wisconsin might not seem like a natural pipeline, but Herbig has made it seem like a natural fit. The top-rated player in his home state, he was among the top linebackers overall in the 2020 class as an instinctive, high-motor defender. He worked his way into a starting role as a freshman and was one of the most disruptive defenders in the Big Ten last season with nine sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. He currently leads the Big Ten in sacks with his lighting quickness closing on quarterbacks. He's moving his way up to a Day 1 draft grade.

17. Antonio Johnson, DB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 211 (No. 12 S)

One of 12 ESPN 300 signings by the Aggies in 2020, Johnson has developed into one of two key secondary additions in that class, along with Jaylon Jones. Initially ranked behind Jones, Johnson has proved that order should be reversed. After contributing as a freshman, Johnson became a consistent and top starter for the Aggies last season, ranking second on the team in total tackles (79). The 6-3, 195-pound junior, the consensus No. 1 safety in next year's draft class, leads the Aggies in tackles (48) this year.

18. Blake Corum, RB
Michigan | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 120 (No. 13 RB)

College football's second-leading rusher has exceeded our expectations as an every-down running back. Corum has always been fast and talented, but his measurables were less than ideal (5-8, 210). He's still on the shorter side but not necessarily small -- and there is a difference. Corum's powerful lower body and leverage have allowed him to succeed tackle to tackle, and his top-end speed is still elite when he breaks into the second level. He's starting to improve his draft stock and create legitimate Heisman buzz as Michigan seeks its second straight CFP appearance.

19. Josh Downs, WR
North Carolina | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 188 (No. 29 WR)

Downs' lower stock out of high school wasn't so much a reflection of his talent as it was his size at 5-9, 165 pounds. However, he has proven to play "big" in every sense of the word. He's an elite route runner and a nightmare in space for opposing defenses. We believe he is going to have a big second half of the season with more games like Saturday, when he had nine catches for 126 yards against Duke. Downs is Kiper's No. 5 wide receiver.

North Carolina junior wide receiver Josh Downs has 145 career receptions for 1,879 yards and 16 touchdowns. Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

20. Jaylon Jones, CB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 35 (No. 3 CB)

Jones has been injured but also unbelievably productive when on the field, especially as a young player. The game has never been too big for him, and he was college ready from the day he arrived in College Station given his size (6-1, 190) and 4.6 speed. We expect his draft stock to also rise as his play becomes more consistent. His physical talent is as good as any cornerback in college football.

21. Kelee Ringo, CB
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 8 (No. 1 CB)

Ringo, the No. 1-ranked corner in the 2020 class, would be ranked higher if he had a fuller body of work. But after redshirting his freshman year because of shoulder surgery, he has shown he is among the most elite players in his class. He was a key contributor and starter on the Bulldogs' stifling national championship defense last year, his 79-yard pick-six clinching their first title since 1980. On a defense that still is among the SEC's best against the pass, Ringo looks poised to be another Georgia defender to be picked in the first round. He is Todd McShay's top-rated cornerback in next year's draft class.

22. Noah Sewell, LB
Oregon | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 27 (No. 3 LB)

Sewell was one of two-high profile linebackers Oregon signed in 2020. While five-star Justin Flowe has flashed but battled injuries, Sewell has shined immediately. He led the team in tackles and was named Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year in 2020. Last season, Sewell's 114 total tackles were second in the Pac-12 and he became the first player in program history to be named a Butkus Award semifinalist. Sewell, McShay's No. 1 inside linebacker prospect, has 24 tackles this season for Oregon, which has won five straight heading into a matchup against an undefeated UCLA team this week.

23. Marvin Mims, WR
Oklahoma | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 161 (No. 24 WR)

An Under Armour All-American coming out high school, Mims has been a key target in the Sooners' high-powered passing attack since arriving in Norman. He earned freshman All-America honors and has led the offense in receiving in each of his first two seasons. (He is on his way again with a team-high 542 yards so far this year.) Whether Spencer Rattler, Caleb Williams or Dillon Gabriel is under center, Mims remains a prominent piece in the Sooners' offense. He has totaled 1,857 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his career.

24. Quentin Johnson, WR
TCU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 63 (No. 7 WR)

Johnson is leading one of the most prolific offenses in the country on a 6-0 TCU team. He is a problem for opposing defenses with his sudden get-off and ability to reach top speed quickly. Getting Johnson the ball consistently prior to the arrival of coach Sonny Dykes was difficult. He is coming off an eight-reception, 180-yard performance in this weekend's upset of Oklahoma State. We expect these types of performances are going to raise his draft stock.

25. Tank Bigsby, RB
Auburn | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 20 (No. 2 RB)

The aptly named Tank was among the top running backs in the 2020 class and quickly established himself as one of college football's best. A thickly built powerful runner with good balance and agility, he made an immediate impact, earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors. Bigsby ran for more than 1,000 yards last season and is versatile with good receiving skills, as he remains a key playmaker in the Tigers' offense in 2022. He is coming off a 179-yard, two-touchdown performance against Ole Miss.

 

Kelee Ringo. What a recruitment saga that was. 

[TheMailBox357 213]

4 hours ago, Hornlover said:

ESPN did a re-rank of the 2020 recruiting class. Spoiler Alert - Bijan is #4. The top 5 is:

1. Bryce Young

2. Will Anderson

3. Jordan Addison

4. Bijan Robinson 

5. CJ Stroud

Texas' 2020 class did not make the top 10 in the re-rank. 

https://www.espn.com/college-football/insider/story/_/id/34790037/re-ranking-college-football-2020-recruiting-class-best-25-recruits-top-10-teams#recruits

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Oct 19, 2022

Craig Haubert Tom Luginbill
College football's 2020 recruiting class certainly had some misses starting at the top. While wide receiver Julian Fleming and defensive end Desmond Evans, ranked as the Nos. 1 and 2 recruits out of high school in the ESPN 300, are solid contributors, neither has been an immediate-impact difference-maker like projected.

As some of the elite high school talent from this class might not have impacted the college game yet, others have risen to greater heights, namely Jordan Addison, who went from the No. 57-rated receiver as a recruit to No. 1.

Recruiting is far from an exact science, and the emergence of the transfer portal gives players their own ability to redo their college decision without having to sit out a year for a better opportunity at reaching their potential. Addison is an example of that, as is Jahmyr Gibbs, who went from Georgia Tech to Alabama and from the No. 19 RB to No. 2 on our rerank.

The 2020 cycle also ended with Dabo Swinney locking down his first No. 1 class. Behind Clemson were Georgia, Alabama, LSU and Ohio State. Alabama is the only team of those five to make the College Football Playoff both years. LSU, on the other hand, has gone 16-14 since landing the No. 4 class, parting ways with coach Ed Orgeron during that time as well.

Below, we examine how different the 2020 recruiting cycle would look if we reranked players based on their college production. We break down what the top 25 players and top 10 classes from the 2020 cycle would look like knowing what we know now.

1. Bryce Young, QB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 5 (No. 1 QB-DT)

Coming off a 455-yard heroic passing performance in a loss vs. Tennessee, Young has been as advertised in every facet. He took Alabama to the national championship game and won the Heisman Trophy in his first full season as a starter. He has proven time and again that he is a rare difference-maker with elite passing skills and extremely high football instincts. The former five-star quarterback is on pace to eclipse 7,000 career passing yards in his junior season. Young is currently ranked as a top-three QB prospect in the 2023 draft.

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six games, Stroud is not sneaking up on anyone anymore.

 

 

2. Will Anderson Jr., LB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 49 (No. 6 DE)

Anderson has demonstrated that his top-50 recruiting ranking was still too low. Now, he is ESPN's consensus No. 1 2023 NFL draft prospect. On a national championship defense, the ESPN 300 DE earned a starting role at its Jack linebacker position on his way to freshman All-America honors. As a sophomore, he established himself as the nation's top defender, notching 34.5 tackles for loss, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and being named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Despite constant double teams, he still has tallied five sacks this season.

3. Jordan Addison, WR
USC | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: four stars (No. 57 WR)

A four-star recruit just outside the ESPN 300, Addison has proven to be among the elite prospects from this class overlooked coming out of high school. At 6-feet, 165 pounds, we were concerned by his lanky frame, even though he ran a laser-timed 4.51 40. Still, he was an immediate contributor at Pitt as a freshman and elevated his play even further in 2021, winning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. With nice length, along with elite quickness and body control, he is now a key target in USC's passing attack and one of the top wide receiver prospects in next year's draft.

4. Bijan Robinson, RB
Texas | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 21 (No. 3 RB)

Robinson has carried the offense for Steve Sarkisian in Austin, and after his fifth straight 100-yard game on Saturday, his coach said he isn't sure that the 6-foot, 220-pound Robinson receives enough credit. He has been incredibly productive despite having to create on his own behind a below-average offensive line the past two years, as well as inconsistent quarterback play. Robinson runs with speed and power and creates big plays in the passing game. He has performed better than Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans, the backs ranked ahead of him in the 2020 class. Robinson is the consensus top RB prospect in the 2023 NFL draft.

5. C.J. Stroud, QB
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 104 (No. 2 QB-PP)

Stroud was a late riser in the recruiting process during the 2020 cycle. He signed with Ohio State and has proven to be an outstanding pickup. He fought off talented competition to take control of the Buckeyes' offense last season and has not looked back. Stroud, a consensus top-five draft prospect, threw for 4,435 yards and 44 TDs in a Heisman finalist season last year. A favorite to start the year and a leading contender midway through with 24 touchdowns in six 

6. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR
Ohio State | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 91 (No. 10 WR)

All the talk coming out of the Ohio State class in 2020 was WR Julian Fleming, the No. 1 recruit overall, and while he might very well materialize if he can stay healthy, the game-changer is Smith-Njigba. We saw the great size, elite quickness and explosiveness but questioned his top-end speed. He has had no issues separating as a route runner. When healthy, the 6-1, 200-pound Smith-Njigba is the best wide receiver in college football, as evidenced by his 347-yard, three-touchdown performance in last season's Rose Bowl. He injured his hamstring in the season-opener against Notre Dame and has appeared in only one other game this year, and Ohio State is being cautious with his return as the Buckeyes look to get back to the College Football Playoff.

7. Jalen Carter, DT
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 12 (No. 2 DT)

The Bulldogs' defense has remained very stout despite having five players selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, and returning an impact player in the trenches in Carter is a big reason. Initially a tight end prospect who physically outgrew the position, he maintained excellent quickness, agility and balance as he added mass. That blend of size (6-3, 300), explosiveness and mobility, coupled with a highly competitive demeanor, has allowed him to become one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in college football. Carter is the consensus No. 1 defensive tackle on ESPN's 2023 draft board.

8. Bryan Bresee, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 3 (No. 1 DT)

Pound for pound, the 6-5, 305-pound Bresee has been in discussion as college football's best defensive tackle since his freshman year, when he totaled four sacks and a fumble recovery for a Clemson defense that reached the College Football Playoff. Though he missed most of last season because of a torn ACL and dealt with a non-football medical issue earlier this month, he is a consistent and dominant force when he is on the field. He has shown he can play every position up front with unmatched quickness at the position.

9. BJ Ojulari, DE
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 122 (No. 13 DE)

Ojulari wasn't the most high-profile name for a loaded Marietta High School (Georgia) state championship team that sent multiple players to Power 5 programs, but he has proven to be the most impactful. Ojulari is a lengthy, rangy edge defender with excellent initial quickness who went from an immediate contributor in his first year to a starter and leading pass-rusher in Year 2. Despite the Tigers' struggles and coaching changes, he has remained a constant bright spot in Baton Rouge. Ojulari is among Jordan Reid's top five draft-eligible defensive ends.

10. Peter Skoronski, OT
Northwestern | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 150 (No. 19 OT)

As Northwestern's top commit in its 2020 class, ESPN 300 OT Skoronski has not disappointed. We underestimated his ability but saw high physical upside. Skoronski has packed on 50 pounds of muscle and retained his skills. He plays with good quickness, agility and balance, and was able to make an immediate impact for the Wildcats. The 6-4, 315-pound left tackle has started since Day 1 and become a two-time All-Big Ten selection who is rated among the top NFL offensive line draft prospects.

11. Myles Murphy, DL
Clemson | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 13 (No. 4 DE)

The Tigers' No. 1 class in the 2020 cycle was anchored by an excellent group of defensive linemen that included Bresee and Murphy, both five-star prospects. Murphy earned freshman All-America honors and was named ACC Co-Newcomer of the Year with three sacks and 18 total tackles. As a sophomore, he continued to be a disruptive presence, as he led the team in sacks (seven) and tackles for loss (14). The highly touted and productive Murphy is again ranked closely behind Bresee among draft prospects.

12. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB
Alabama | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 178 (No. 19 RB)

Gibbs, who spent his first two years at Georgia Tech before transferring to Tuscaloosa, reminds us so much of former Alabama standout Josh Jacobs. Jacobs was another back whose versatility we undervalued out of high school. Gibbs is arguably Tide's most dynamic player on offense. He entered the transfer portal to face high-caliber competition, and the decision paid off. Gibbs' greatest asset this year might have been shouldering the load when Bryce Young went down, as his 226 yards from scrimmage paced Alabama past Arkansas, and he recorded 154 rushing yards in a win against Texas A&M. He is an every-down back who can do it all. Gibbs is a consensus top-three running back on ESPN's NFL draft board.

13. Michael Mayer, TE
Notre Dame | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 81 (No. 3 TE-Y)

Notre Dame has developed a rich history at tight end, and Mayer quickly established himself as another great player at the position for the Fighting Irish. A big target with good hands and body control, Mayer was a talented route runner coming out of high school and finished his freshman year as a team leader in receptions. He built upon that in his sophomore season with a team-high 71 catches and is the focal point in Notre Dame's passing attack as a junior. He has established himself as the likely first tight end selected when he enters the NFL draft.

Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, originally the third-ranked tight end in the 2020 recruiting cycle, has cemented himself as the class' No. 1 tight end and a potential first-round draft pick. Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

14. Kayshon Boutte, WR
LSU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 33 (No. 3 WR)

When he's healthy, Boutte has shown to be among the best in the country, especially as a route runner. Consistency has been the issue with Boutte, but when he's on, he can dominate as of the most explosive players in college football. Coming off his first 100-yard performance of the season against Florida on Saturday, Boutte is physical with strong hands when contested and has traits similar to former LSU great Ja'Marr Chase.

15. Devon Achane, RB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 200 (No. 13 ATH)

Dynamic would be the best way to describe Achane both now and when he was coming out of high school. He's a flash of speed who can line up anywhere on the field to create mismatches. We can only imagine how much better his numbers would be if Texas A&M had stability at quarterback. We saw great versatility when he was a recruit, but he has shown great big-play speed and explosiveness in College Station, as evidenced by his 16 career rushing scores, three receiving touchdowns and two kickoff return touchdowns. Achane is Mel Kiper Jr.'s No. 5 running back.

16. Nick Herbig, LB
Wisconsin | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 144 (No. 13)

The road from tropical Hawai'i to Wisconsin might not seem like a natural pipeline, but Herbig has made it seem like a natural fit. The top-rated player in his home state, he was among the top linebackers overall in the 2020 class as an instinctive, high-motor defender. He worked his way into a starting role as a freshman and was one of the most disruptive defenders in the Big Ten last season with nine sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. He currently leads the Big Ten in sacks with his lighting quickness closing on quarterbacks. He's moving his way up to a Day 1 draft grade.

17. Antonio Johnson, DB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 211 (No. 12 S)

One of 12 ESPN 300 signings by the Aggies in 2020, Johnson has developed into one of two key secondary additions in that class, along with Jaylon Jones. Initially ranked behind Jones, Johnson has proved that order should be reversed. After contributing as a freshman, Johnson became a consistent and top starter for the Aggies last season, ranking second on the team in total tackles (79). The 6-3, 195-pound junior, the consensus No. 1 safety in next year's draft class, leads the Aggies in tackles (48) this year.

18. Blake Corum, RB
Michigan | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 120 (No. 13 RB)

College football's second-leading rusher has exceeded our expectations as an every-down running back. Corum has always been fast and talented, but his measurables were less than ideal (5-8, 210). He's still on the shorter side but not necessarily small -- and there is a difference. Corum's powerful lower body and leverage have allowed him to succeed tackle to tackle, and his top-end speed is still elite when he breaks into the second level. He's starting to improve his draft stock and create legitimate Heisman buzz as Michigan seeks its second straight CFP appearance.

19. Josh Downs, WR
North Carolina | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 188 (No. 29 WR)

Downs' lower stock out of high school wasn't so much a reflection of his talent as it was his size at 5-9, 165 pounds. However, he has proven to play "big" in every sense of the word. He's an elite route runner and a nightmare in space for opposing defenses. We believe he is going to have a big second half of the season with more games like Saturday, when he had nine catches for 126 yards against Duke. Downs is Kiper's No. 5 wide receiver.

North Carolina junior wide receiver Josh Downs has 145 career receptions for 1,879 yards and 16 touchdowns. Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

20. Jaylon Jones, CB
Texas A&M | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 35 (No. 3 CB)

Jones has been injured but also unbelievably productive when on the field, especially as a young player. The game has never been too big for him, and he was college ready from the day he arrived in College Station given his size (6-1, 190) and 4.6 speed. We expect his draft stock to also rise as his play becomes more consistent. His physical talent is as good as any cornerback in college football.

21. Kelee Ringo, CB
Georgia | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 8 (No. 1 CB)

Ringo, the No. 1-ranked corner in the 2020 class, would be ranked higher if he had a fuller body of work. But after redshirting his freshman year because of shoulder surgery, he has shown he is among the most elite players in his class. He was a key contributor and starter on the Bulldogs' stifling national championship defense last year, his 79-yard pick-six clinching their first title since 1980. On a defense that still is among the SEC's best against the pass, Ringo looks poised to be another Georgia defender to be picked in the first round. He is Todd McShay's top-rated cornerback in next year's draft class.

22. Noah Sewell, LB
Oregon | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 27 (No. 3 LB)

Sewell was one of two-high profile linebackers Oregon signed in 2020. While five-star Justin Flowe has flashed but battled injuries, Sewell has shined immediately. He led the team in tackles and was named Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year in 2020. Last season, Sewell's 114 total tackles were second in the Pac-12 and he became the first player in program history to be named a Butkus Award semifinalist. Sewell, McShay's No. 1 inside linebacker prospect, has 24 tackles this season for Oregon, which has won five straight heading into a matchup against an undefeated UCLA team this week.

23. Marvin Mims, WR
Oklahoma | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 161 (No. 24 WR)

An Under Armour All-American coming out high school, Mims has been a key target in the Sooners' high-powered passing attack since arriving in Norman. He earned freshman All-America honors and has led the offense in receiving in each of his first two seasons. (He is on his way again with a team-high 542 yards so far this year.) Whether Spencer Rattler, Caleb Williams or Dillon Gabriel is under center, Mims remains a prominent piece in the Sooners' offense. He has totaled 1,857 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his career.

24. Quentin Johnson, WR
TCU | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 63 (No. 7 WR)

Johnson is leading one of the most prolific offenses in the country on a 6-0 TCU team. He is a problem for opposing defenses with his sudden get-off and ability to reach top speed quickly. Getting Johnson the ball consistently prior to the arrival of coach Sonny Dykes was difficult. He is coming off an eight-reception, 180-yard performance in this weekend's upset of Oklahoma State. We expect these types of performances are going to raise his draft stock.

25. Tank Bigsby, RB
Auburn | 2020 ESPN 300 ranking: 20 (No. 2 RB)

The aptly named Tank was among the top running backs in the 2020 class and quickly established himself as one of college football's best. A thickly built powerful runner with good balance and agility, he made an immediate impact, earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors. Bigsby ran for more than 1,000 yards last season and is versatile with good receiving skills, as he remains a key playmaker in the Tigers' offense in 2022. He is coming off a 179-yard, two-touchdown performance against Ole Miss.

 

I'm pretty sure UT's 2020 class originally just missed the top 10 class because UT missed on a lot of targets & ended up with a smaller class.