2024 NFL DRAFT

[LTtxfan 49144]

 

[Plorant 799]

2 hours ago, LTtxfan said:

 

I hope that comes true.  Sanders learning from Kelce as his future replacement as Mahomes main target.  Can't imagine a better situation for him. 

[SA-KC_Horn 1295]

42 minutes ago, Plorant said:

I hope that comes true.  Sanders learning from Kelce as his future replacement as Mahomes main target.  Can't imagine a better situation for him. 

[pacman 7355]

https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/38381720/2024-nfl-draft-rankings-mel-kiper-big-board-top-prospects-position-best-players

 

Kiper's latest..

Quote

14. Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas

6-2, 195 pounds | Previously: 15

I wrote a bunch about Ewers after he led the Longhorns to a win over Alabama in Tuscaloosa. In short, he has shown in his career that he can be maddeningly inconsistent in one game and look like a No. 1 overall pick in another. Against Rice to begin the season, he missed a few easy throws and was 0-for-6 on passes of 20-plus air yards. He didn't turn the ball over, but he also didn't make the Owls pay until he found a rhythm in the second half.

Against Alabama, we saw Ewers' potential as he flipped the script and was unphased by the road atmosphere. He showed outstanding touch and accuracy on his deep throws and was precise to all points of the field. He was decisive in his reads and was fantastic maneuvering the pocket, keeping his eyes down the field to find targets. That's what he can be if he plays to his talent level.

As I have mentioned, though, this is the same guy who had a 19-for-49 game against Oklahoma State last season. He has to bottle that Bama performance and carry it through the rest of the season. If that happens, he likely will be a top-15 pick. If not? He'll drop -- and Texas will fall out of the College Football Playoff race.

Worthy #7 WR

Sanders #2 TE

No Jones at OT, surprised 

Murphy #5 DT

Sweat #7 DT

Ford #4 LB

Sanborn #6 Punter

[LTtxfan 49144]

 

[Longhornlove 4809]

Murphy ahead of Sweat? Really, pretty sure that isn't what the film says.

[cmontexas 3270]

Murphy's stock can be helped or hurt depending on his workouts. If he tests crazy like Kancey last year he could rise. Otherwise, he's an average size DT with some decent film.

Draft sites are slowly catching on to Sweat. Ive seen him in the first round on a few. There just aren't many humans that big who can fill that role on a defense

[Fud 9552]

Update from the best in the business, imo

 

[Texasborn91 935]

Find me a DT that’s having a better season than Sweat. Dude has been a fucking monster. 

[Mother mopar 3318]

Update from the best in the business, imo
 

Pay walled for me but I'm not a surly 1%.

[closetohumping 17435]

30 minutes ago, Mother mopar said:

4 hours ago, Fud said:

Update from the best in the business, imo
 

Pay walled for me but I'm not a surly 1%.

Ditto. Looks like he has Maye as 1

[CashMcCoy 3199]

34 minutes ago, Mother mopar said:

4 hours ago, Fud said:

Update from the best in the business, imo
 

Pay walled for me but I'm not a surly 1%.

AD at #42

Quinn at #45

Nobody else. Maybe they will all come back now to prove themselves SEC good.

[tokamak 6392]

Formatting is shit because of the way The Athletic does it

Spoiler

I'm warning you, it's bad

Spoiler

1

Drake Maye

QB

North Carolina

Height:

6-4

Weight:

230

Class:

R-So.

Cut from the same cloth as Justin Herbert, Maye (2,559 yards passing, 22 total TDs) continues to impress with his on-field command despite inconsistent help around him. A tall, well-put-together athlete, he has an explosive release with the touch to threaten every level of the field.

He still makes a few more reckless decisions than you’d want, but his timing has improved, and his aggressive decision-making is more of a strength than a weakness.

Photo:

Eric Espada / Getty Images

QB

R-So.

2

Marvin Harrison Jr.

WR

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

The best wide receiver prospect that I have evaluated over the last decade, Harrison (48 catches for 889 yards and eight TDs) offers a rare package of physical traits and savvy, and it has made him nearly uncoverable at the college level. His athletic dexterity and instincts, both as a route runner and at the catch point, are what really separate him — especially for a 6-foot-4 receiver.

Although he isn’t as physically imposing as Julio Jones, there are several similarities between the two, including the way they play strong to the football.

Photo:

Carmen Mandato / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

3

Caleb Williams

QB

USC

Height:

6-1

Weight:

220

Class:

Jr.

I’m all for a ban of the word “generational” when talking about college prospects, because it sets near-unattainable expectations and makes a player like Williams an easy target for criticism. That said, Williams (2,646 yards passing, 34 total TDs) remains an extremely impressive prospect. He has an above-average arm and a natural feel for accuracy, and his ability to weaponize his creativity remains a differentiating factor between him and most quarterbacks.

Williams is fantastic at navigating chaos, but he does hold the ball too long at times. Often he has no choice, either because a defense gets immediate pressure with its front four or his receivers haven’t created separation. And when that happens, Williams feels forced to put on the superhero cape, which can lead to negative plays.

With the bar set so high, it can be easy to call Williams “overrated” after a mistake, but let’s not lose sight of his tremendous strengths as a player.

Photo:

Ezra Shaw / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

4

Brock Bowers

TE

Georgia

Height:

6-4

Weight:

230

Class:

Jr.

Some will scoff at the sight of a tight end carrying this ranking, but the No. 1 goal for any team picking this high is to draft a difference-maker. Bowers (41 catches for 567 yards, five total TDs) is exactly that.

More of a receiver/tight end hybrid, Bowers has speed and athleticism that jump off the screen. His physicality is almost as impressive, both as a blocker and after the catch, where he is master of picking up those hidden yards. I thought this quote from an area scout was a perfect summation: “He’s a 21-year-old George Kittle. That’ll get him drafted (in the) top seven.”

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

TE

Jr.

5

Olu Fashanu

OT

Penn State

Height:

6-6

Weight:

321

Class:

Jr.

At 6 feet 6 and 321 pounds with 34 3/8-inch arms, Fashanu is one of the best pass-protecting tackle prospects in recent years. He shows an outstanding blend of size, movement skills and body control to easily access his anchor. His intelligence and character are also strong selling points.

Scouts want to see a more aggressive approach from him, especially in the run game.

Photo:

Paul Sancya / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

6

Joe Alt

OT

Notre Dame

Height:

6-7

Weight:

322

Class:

Jr.

Alt already was clearly a first-round prospect based on his sophomore film, but he looks even better as a junior — it won’t be a surprise if he finishes as OT1 for some NFL teams. For a tall blocker (nearly 6 feet 8), he does a terrific job with his redirect and recovery, and you’ll rarely see him stressed.

Even though he didn’t become a full-time offensive lineman until college, Alt plays with impressive technique and pad level.

Photo:

Ric Tapia / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

7

Dallas Turner

Edge

Alabama

Height:

6-4

Weight:

242

Class:

Jr.

When it comes to rushing the passer, Turner checks the boxes for both traits and production. He is explosive off the ball and into contact, and he plays with exceptional pursuit speed to chase down the football.

Turner is currently the only FBS player ranked top five nationally in sacks (7.0), pressures, pass-rush win rate and pass-rush win percentage.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

Edge

Jr.

8

Keon Coleman

WR

Florida State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

Because Coleman wasn’t yet a well-known name, I received some pushback when he debuted as WR4 in my initial positional rankings in July. Fast forward to the present, and the Michigan State transfer isn’t a secret any longer.

With his size/speed athleticism and acrobatic ball skills, Coleman (38 catches for 538 yards and nine TDs) is a freakish talent with the chance to be a dominant player. His flashes remind me of how Demaryius Thomas played when he was at Georgia Tech.

Photo:

Julio Aguilar / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

9

Laiatu Latu

Edge

UCLA

Height:

6-5

Weight:

265

Class:

R-Sr.

Similar to 2021 first-round pick Jaelen Phillips (both in terms of skill level and personal journey), Latu is an interesting prospect. He plays with only average bend, his arms aren’t very long and his medical history is a potential concern. But his motor runs hot, and he has a graduate degree in rush technique — specializing in cross-chops, arm-overs and lightning-fast hands.

Latu has accounted for a ridiculous 106 pressures in 21 games since he transferred to UCLA prior to last season.

Photo:

Ross D. Franklin / Associated Press

Edge

R-Sr.

10

JC Latham

OT

Alabama

Height:

6-6

Weight:

335

Class:

Jr.

A massive blocker, Latham carries his weight well in pass protection and plays with exceptional strength from head to toe. In the run game, he creates movement at contact and specializes in dumping linebackers at the second level.

He needs to be more consistent with his strike placement and protecting versus inside moves, but Latham has quickly and consistently improved since he arrived in Tuscaloosa. He has the goods to be a starting NFL right tackle next year.

Photo:

Vasha Hunt / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

11

Rome Odunze

WR

Washington

Height:

6-3

Weight:

217

Class:

Jr.

What’s not to like? Odunze is a verified 6 feet 2 7/8 and 217 pounds. He glides on the football field with plenty of speed (he won a state title in the 200 meters in high school), and he has natural receiving instincts plus the coordination to cleanly snatch the football.

I liked Odunze (51 catches for 907 yards and seven TDs) when I studied him over the summer, but I didn’t give him enough credit for the way he can impact the game.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

12

Chop Robinson

Edge

Penn State

Height:

6-3

Weight:

250

Class:

Jr.

For Robinson (5.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks) to be ranked this highly, it’d be great if he was more consistently dominant. But he’ll go on heaters (see: the Iowa tape), where he’ll just take over games for stretches with his instant speed and aggressive hands. He is a better prospect than Will McDonald IV, who was drafted No. 15 this past April.

Robinson exited the Ohio State game last Saturday with an injury and had to be carted to the locker room, but Penn State hopes to get him back soon.

Photo:

Ric Tapia / Associated Press

Edge

Jr.

13

Malik Nabers

WR

LSU

Height:

6-0

Weight:

200

Class:

Jr.

Although he is WR4 in this update, Nabers just as easily could be WR2 — there isn’t much separating him from Coleman and Odunze. For NFL teams, it’ll depend on the type of receiver they want.

Nabers (56 catches for 981 yards and nine TDs) has gliding speed to consistently win one-on-one vertical patterns downfield, but he also can stop on a dime to snap his routes and give his quarterback a window. Only two FBS receivers currently have at least 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Nabers.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

14

Nate Wiggins

CB

Clemson

Height:

6-2

Weight:

185

Class:

Jr.

Wiggins is long and fast with the sudden feet to easily redirect and stay attached to routes. There are a few concerning areas of his game, most notably his marginal play strength, but Wiggins (one INT, four passes defended) shows a knack for playing through the hands of receivers.

Though he gave up a touchdown in his return from injury against Miami on Oct. 21, he also had a pair of pass breakups and an impressive chase-down forced fumble.

Photo:

Michael Reaves / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

15

Jared Verse

Edge

Florida State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

260

Class:

R-Jr.

A fast and physical edge defender, Verse passed up a potential spot in last year’s first round for one more year in college, and he has helped the Seminoles jump out to an 8-0 start.

Verse (6.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks) hasn’t had the splashy impact most expected — he’s failed to record a sack in five of eight games so far — but he still looks like the same player from the 2022 tape, which isn’t a bad thing.

Photo:

Joshua Bessex / Associated Press

Edge

R-Jr.

16

J.J. McCarthy

QB

Michigan

Height:

6-3

Weight:

196

Class:

Jr.

Two months after entering the season as my QB3, McCarthy (1,799 yards passing, 21 total TDs) hasn’t done anything to surrender that spot. He is completing 78.1 percent of his passes with an 18-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio, while doing some of his best work on the move.

Considering Michigan’s schedule, NFL scouts are taking a wait-and-see approach with McCarthy — the month of November (featuring games at Penn State and versus Ohio State) will determine a lot.

Photo:

Gregory Shamus / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

17

Cooper DeJean

CB

Iowa

Height:

6-1

Weight:

207

Class:

Jr.

With his athletic traits, toughness and versatility, DeJean (two INTs, three passes defended, one punt-return TD) checks a lot of boxes, regardless of scheme. He is arguably the best run-defending defensive back in college football and plays sticky in coverage.

DeJean also offers value on special teams — his dramatic punt return against Minnesota may have been nullified, but it’s still on tape and added to his collection of splash plays as a returner and gunner.

Photo:

David Berding / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

18

Kool-Aid McKinstry

CB

Alabama

Height:

6-1

Weight:

195

Class:

Jr.

With his body control and balance, McKinstry (21 career passes defended) stays controlled in his transitions and takes advantage of his length to obstruct passing windows.

Though he doesn’t play panicked, he tends to hit cruise control at times and gets too conservative, which can lead to missed tackles or plays downfield. But there are still more positives than negatives to his game, and he projects as an immediate NFL starter.

Photo:

Brandon Sumrall / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

19

Amarius Mims

OT

Georgia

Height:

6-7

Weight:

330

Class:

Jr.

The No. 5 player in my preseason top 50, Mims looked primed for a breakout season, but he has been sidelined with an ankle injury. Nonetheless, I’m still captivated by his flashes and traits. He moves tremendously well for a 330-pounder and packs a punch behind his powerful hands.

With just five career starts to his name, Mims needs to establish his body of work, but I’ll bet on his baseline talent.

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

OT

Jr.

20

Emeka Egbuka

WR

Ohio State

Height:

6-1

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

An ankle injury sidelined Egbuka (22 catches for 303 yards, three TDs) for most of October, but the Ohio State offense looks much different when he’s on the field. In fact, the Buckeyes probably wouldn’t have beaten Notre Dame without him.

He is a magnet that can open voids in the defense, and he shows innate ball-judgement skills and hand strength. His skill set is more subtle than Marvin Harrison Jr.’s, but Egbuka is a pro-ready receiver.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

21

Jer'Zhan Newton

DT

Illinois

Height:

6-2

Weight:

295

Class:

Jr.

I’m sure Newton (35 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks) will get beaten up throughout the draft process, because he lacks desired size and length for the position. But he is consistently disruptive, regardless of which tape of his you study.

With his initial quickness, Newton creates vertical push and uses various snatch/pull techniques to shed blocks. And, thanks to his GPS for the football, he is just as productive defending the run.

Photo:

Chris Leduc / Icon Sportswire via Associated Press

DT

Jr.

22

Tyler Guyton

OT

Oklahoma

Height:

6-6

Weight:

319

Class:

R-Jr.

Similar to Amarius Mims, Guyton’s draft projection is based more on traits and upside than body of work, which can make it challenging to accurately rank him at this point. But he offers the big-man athleticism and movement skills that make it easy to be optimistic for his future.

Several NFL scouts believe his potential is greater than that of Anton Harrison, a 2023 first-rounder from Oklahoma.

Photo:

Kevin Jairaj / USA Today

OT

R-Jr.

23

J.T. Tuimoloau

Edge

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

270

Class:

Jr.

A physical presence for all four quarters, Tuimoloau (5.0 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks) wins the point of attack with aggressive hands and by using body leverage to pry open pass-rush lanes.

He needs to work on becoming more deceptive (like he was on his fake stunt against Olu Fashanu) to consistently beat NFL tackles, but his baseline traits make him a next-level starter.

Photo:

Michael Was / Icon Sportswire via Associated Press

Edge

Jr.

24

Shedeur Sanders

QB

Colorado

Height:

6-2

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

As my preseason QB6, Sanders just missed the initial top 50 in August. He absolutely earned his way onto the list this time with his play over the season’s first two months.

Sanders (2,637 yards passing, 25 total TDs) is guilty of holding the ball for too long when big-play hunting, but his ability to keep plays alive is an asset. Though he could use another year of seasoning, Sanders has the poise and physical talent to warrant a first-round pick if he declares for the 2024 draft.

Photo:

Dustin Bradford / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

25

Brian Thomas Jr.

WR

LSU

Height:

6-4

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

One of the biggest risers since the summer, Thomas (42 catches for 732 yards) is big, strong and fast — there shouldn’t be much mystery why he is ranked in the top 25. He leads the FBS in receiving touchdowns (11), and there aren’t many drops on his film.

The gap between Thomas and Malik Nabers is small, and some teams might even have Thomas as the higher-ranked receiver.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

26

Kalen King

CB

Penn State

Height:

5-11

Weight:

191

Class:

Jr.

There’s no way around it: King had a disappointing performance versus Ohio State, his most important tape of the season. Whether in the slot or outside, Marvin Harrison Jr. had little trouble creating separation against him, and King also committed two costly penalties (one took points off the board for Penn State; another set up Ohio State near the goal line).

King (25 career passes defended) is a talented and aggressive competitor and still belongs in the first-round discussion, but he must finish the season strong — including an important matchup against Michigan on Nov. 11.

Photo:

Scott Taetsch / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

27

Taliese Fuaga

OT

Oregon State

Height:

6-6

Weight:

334

Class:

R-Jr.

Oregon State has a few future NFL players on its offensive line, but Fuaga has been the most impressive of the group. He creates immediate displacement with his hands in the run game and escorts defenders away from the lane. His feet can get tied up at times against quality rushers, but he does a nice job with his pass-protection landmarks.

Photo:

Darren Yamashita / Getty Images

OT

R-Jr.

28

Terrion Arnold

CB

Alabama

Height:

6-0

Weight:

195

Class:

R-So.

Although he might not receive as much notoriety as teammate Kool-Aid McKinstry, Arnold (40 tackles, one INT, six passes defended) has played well this season and has NFL starting-level traits himself.

At 6 feet 0 and 195 pounds, he has quick, controlled footwork in his pedal and transitions to stay on top of routes. He also might be the most competitive corner in the draft.

Photo:

Butch Dill / USA Today

CB

R-So.

29

Jordan Morgan

OT

Arizona

Height:

6-5

Weight:

306

Class:

Sr.

If not for a late-season injury, Morgan could have been a top-50 pick in the 2023 draft. Instead, the left tackle returned to Arizona for his fifth season and is now playing his best football.

Morgan stays balanced in his pass sets and leverages his body and massive hands to answer pass rushers. Some NFL teams want to keep him outside; others are grading him as a guard.

Photo:

Mark J. Rebilas / USA Today

OT

Sr.

30

Patrick Paul

OT

Houston

Height:

6-7

Weight:

308

Class:

Jr.

Paul’s tape doesn’t scream ”first-round pick,” but his traits and upside could make him a Day 1 selection.

At 6 feet 7 and 308 pounds with 36 3/8-inch arms, the Houston native can overwhelm defenders and keep them occupied. However, he will struggle versus savvy and speed, and he needs to develop his hand use/timing before he is ready for NFL rushers.

Photo:

Michael C. Johnson / USA Today

OT

Jr.

31

Troy Franklin

WR

Oregon

Height:

6-2

Weight:

178

Class:

Jr.

With his straight-line speed, Franklin (52 catches for 867 yards and nine TDs) is a field-stretcher who can feast against press or off-man coverage. He has explosive leaping skills to high point and win catches over defensive backs.

Though he doesn’t have the same size, Franklin has some similarities in his game to what makes Christian Watson a weapon for the Packers.

Photo:

Lydia Ely / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

32

Chris Braswell

Edge

Alabama

Height:

6-3

Weight:

252

Class:

Sr.

If you watch the Alabama front seven to see Dallas Turner, Braswell (9.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles) inevitably will jump off the screen. There is some tightness when he turns the corner, but Braswell is able to slam his hands into blockers, convert his speed to power and collapse the pocket in different ways.

High-energy force players like Braswell usually find sustainable roles in the NFL.

Photo:

Gary Cosby Jr. / USA Today

Edge

Sr.

33

Troy Fautanu

G

Washington

Height:

6-4

Weight:

319

Class:

Jr.

A college left tackle, Fautanu has the talent and length to stay outside, but his body and play style suggest that an NFL move to guard could be what is best long-term.

Fautanu has NFL-level feet and movements, and he is playing with better composure and committing fewer penalties than last season.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

G

Jr.

34

Tyler Nubin

S

Minnesota

Height:

6-2

Weight:

210

Class:

R-Sr.

Currently tied for second in the Big Ten with three interceptions, Nubin (36 tackles, three passes defended) looks like a wide receiver with his ability to make plays on the ball.

If you saw his tears of joy after Minnesota’s win over Iowa, you also should understand how important winning is to him.

Photo:

Matt Krohn / USA Today

S

R-Sr.

35

Quinyon Mitchell

CB

Toledo

Height:

6-1

Weight:

199

Class:

Jr.

You don’t hear Mitchell mentioned much as a potential first-round pick, but you should. He is 6 feet 1 and 200 pounds with verified 4.3 speed, and those numbers translate well to the football field. The Toledo coaches feel confident leaving Mitchell (37 career passes defended) on an island, because they know they have an NFL talent.

Photo:

Michael Hickey / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

36

Jack Sawyer

Edge

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

265

Class:

Jr.

While J.T. Tuimoloau receives most of the attention on the Ohio State defensive line, Sawyer’s impact has been instrumental to the Buckeyes’ success.

Built the right way at 6 feet 4 and 265 pounds, Sawyer (26 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks) is more good than great in several categories. He is well-rounded, though, and could be a valuable piece to an NFL defensive line with his aggressive and always-alert play style versus both run and pass.

Photo:

Joseph Maiorana / USA Today

Edge

Jr.

37

Denzel Burke

CB

Ohio State

Height:

6-1

Weight:

190

Class:

Jr.

The Big Ten leader in pass breakups (nine), Burke is a good-sized athlete with the feet to stay on top of routes. His aggressive tendencies downfield with his back to the football lead to volatility in his game, but his competitive makeup and movement skills are traits that can be coached up in the NFL.

Photo:

Michael Reaves / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

38

Ruke Orhorhoro

DT

Clemson

Height:

6-4

Weight:

288

Class:

Sr.

Although his production (5.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks) has been mediocre this season, Orhorhoro has the talent and traits that NFL coaches want in their building.

After not playing football until his junior year of high school, Orhorhoro has steadily been getting better and better each season, and he is still far from his ceiling.

Photo:

Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images

DT

Sr.

39

Ja'Lynn Polk

WR

Washington

Height:

6-2

Weight:

204

Class:

R-So.

Washington is the third team with multiple receivers in this top 50, joining Ohio State and LSU.

Polk (46 catches for 836 yards and seven TDs) makes outstanding adjustments on the football, and he boasts the size and concentration to win in traffic. I’m not sure what Polk’s timed speed will be, but he has the route acceleration to give his quarterback a window.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

WR

R-So.

40

Kamari Lassiter

CB

Georgia

Height:

6-0

Weight:

180

Class:

Jr.

Although he ultimately might not have the top-tier testing numbers NFL teams covet at cornerback, Lassiter (26 tackles, 10 career passes defended) is highly competitive with the controlled movements to shadow receivers at the next level.

According to NFL area scouts, those in the Georgia building “love” Lassiter, because he is one of the program’s best leaders and workers.

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

41

Barrett Carter

LB

Clemson

Height:

6-1

Weight:

225

Class:

Jr.

The only linebacker to make this top 50, Carter (43 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks) lacks ideal size, length and finishing power — which will make it tough for him to earn first-round grades. But he has above-average key-and-drive skills with the athletic twitch and sideline-to-sideline speed to pile up impact plays.

Photo:

Ken Ruinard / USA Today

LB

Jr.

42

Adonai Mitchell

WR

Texas

Height:

6-4

Weight:

192

Class:

Jr.

At 6 feet 4 and 196 pounds, Mitchell (29 catches for 427 yards and seven TDs) is a long, flexible athlete who possesses easy acceleration to immediately reach top speed. Though he is a loose mover, Mitchell also tends to be imprecise with his technique and must continue to improve his play strength.

I’m not sure that he will ever be as dominant as his traits suggest he can be, but that won’t stop an NFL team from finding out.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

43

Jayden Daniels

QB

LSU

Height:

6-3

Weight:

205

Class:

Sr.

Daniels (2,573 yards passing, 30 total TDs) put quality tape out there while at Arizona State, but he took a noticeable jump last season after transferring to LSU and looks even better in 2023.

His running ability is a valuable asset, but I’m most impressed with his confidence and control as a passer — both in the pocket and on the move. He leads the FBS in completions of 20-plus yards with 49.

Daniels has received starter-level grades from NFL scouts.

Photo:

Julio Aguilar / Getty Images

QB

Sr.

44

Landon Jackson

Edge

Arkansas

Height:

6-7

Weight:

281

Class:

Jr.

An LSU transfer, Jackson (34 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks) has shown flashes of dominance this season, most notably on the Alabama tape (11 tackles, 3.5 sacks).

At 6 feet 7 and 280 pounds, he is aware versus the run and has really smooth stride acceleration to work his way around blockers as a pass rusher. I promise you will start to hear Jackson’s name more and more as we move closer to the draft.

Photo:

Wesley Hitt / Getty Images

Edge

Jr.

45

Quinn Ewers

QB

Texas

Height:

6-2

Weight:

205

Class:

So.

Ewers (1,915 yards passing, 18 total TDs) has taken a step forward this season, especially with his performance at Alabama.

There is no doubt that he is an NFL quarterback, but determining his pro upside — high-end, mid-level or low-end starter? — still feels like a work in progress. It doesn’t help that Ewers is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Photo:

Peter Aiken / Getty Images

QB

So.

46

Bralen Trice

Edge

Washington

Height:

6-3

Weight:

280

Class:

Jr.

Fresh off a dominant performance versus Stanford (16 pressures, 2.0 sacks), Trice is starting to heat up after a relatively slow start. He won’t test off the charts with his speed or length, but his athletic urgency and physicality make it tough to keep him blocked.

Photo:

Joe Nicholson / USA Today

Edge

Jr.

47

Calen Bullock

S

USC

Height:

6-3

Weight:

195

Class:

Jr.

The USC defense has been a disaster this season, but Bullock has been one of the few bright spots. He leads the Trojans in passes defended (six) and interceptions (two, including a pick six) and has a rangy skill set reminiscent of 2021 second-round pick Trevon Moehrig.

Photo:

Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today

S

Jr.

48

Ladd McConkey

WR

Georgia

Height:

5-11

Weight:

185

Class:

Jr.

At 5 feet 11 and 185 pounds, McConkey doesn’t necessarily look impressive stepping off the bus. But then you see his speed, competitive ball skills and on-field impact, and you are reminded why he is one of the top playmakers in the SEC.

After missing the first month of the season due to injury, McConkey had a breakout game last Saturday against Florida (134 receiving yards, including 76 after the catch).

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

49

Graham Barton

G

Duke

Height:

6-5

Weight:

311

Class:

Sr.

A college left tackle, Barton most likely will move inside to guard or center in the NFL. Either way, he projects as a long-term starter.

He is athletic, keeps his blocks centered and finishes with a stubborn grip. Regardless of the position he plays, there are a lot of NFL teams that could use his skill set right now.

Photo:

Jaylynn Nash / USA Today

G

Sr.

50

Carson Beck

QB

Georgia

Height:

6-4

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

 

 

[westexhorn 2013]

Wow damn

[mwaadeeb 1209]

12 minutes ago, westexhorn said:

Wow damn

Perhaps commentary is not your strength.

[Tex Long 4383]

39 minutes ago, mwaadeeb said:

Perhaps commentary is not your strength.

He should apply to The Athletic?

[Park Gothic 5016]

2 hours ago, tokamak said:

Formatting is shit because of the way The Athletic does it

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1

Drake Maye

QB

North Carolina

Height:

6-4

Weight:

230

Class:

R-So.

Cut from the same cloth as Justin Herbert, Maye (2,559 yards passing, 22 total TDs) continues to impress with his on-field command despite inconsistent help around him. A tall, well-put-together athlete, he has an explosive release with the touch to threaten every level of the field.

He still makes a few more reckless decisions than you’d want, but his timing has improved, and his aggressive decision-making is more of a strength than a weakness.

Photo:

Eric Espada / Getty Images

QB

R-So.

2

Marvin Harrison Jr.

WR

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

The best wide receiver prospect that I have evaluated over the last decade, Harrison (48 catches for 889 yards and eight TDs) offers a rare package of physical traits and savvy, and it has made him nearly uncoverable at the college level. His athletic dexterity and instincts, both as a route runner and at the catch point, are what really separate him — especially for a 6-foot-4 receiver.

Although he isn’t as physically imposing as Julio Jones, there are several similarities between the two, including the way they play strong to the football.

Photo:

Carmen Mandato / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

3

Caleb Williams

QB

USC

Height:

6-1

Weight:

220

Class:

Jr.

I’m all for a ban of the word “generational” when talking about college prospects, because it sets near-unattainable expectations and makes a player like Williams an easy target for criticism. That said, Williams (2,646 yards passing, 34 total TDs) remains an extremely impressive prospect. He has an above-average arm and a natural feel for accuracy, and his ability to weaponize his creativity remains a differentiating factor between him and most quarterbacks.

Williams is fantastic at navigating chaos, but he does hold the ball too long at times. Often he has no choice, either because a defense gets immediate pressure with its front four or his receivers haven’t created separation. And when that happens, Williams feels forced to put on the superhero cape, which can lead to negative plays.

With the bar set so high, it can be easy to call Williams “overrated” after a mistake, but let’s not lose sight of his tremendous strengths as a player.

Photo:

Ezra Shaw / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

4

Brock Bowers

TE

Georgia

Height:

6-4

Weight:

230

Class:

Jr.

Some will scoff at the sight of a tight end carrying this ranking, but the No. 1 goal for any team picking this high is to draft a difference-maker. Bowers (41 catches for 567 yards, five total TDs) is exactly that.

More of a receiver/tight end hybrid, Bowers has speed and athleticism that jump off the screen. His physicality is almost as impressive, both as a blocker and after the catch, where he is master of picking up those hidden yards. I thought this quote from an area scout was a perfect summation: “He’s a 21-year-old George Kittle. That’ll get him drafted (in the) top seven.”

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

TE

Jr.

5

Olu Fashanu

OT

Penn State

Height:

6-6

Weight:

321

Class:

Jr.

At 6 feet 6 and 321 pounds with 34 3/8-inch arms, Fashanu is one of the best pass-protecting tackle prospects in recent years. He shows an outstanding blend of size, movement skills and body control to easily access his anchor. His intelligence and character are also strong selling points.

Scouts want to see a more aggressive approach from him, especially in the run game.

Photo:

Paul Sancya / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

6

Joe Alt

OT

Notre Dame

Height:

6-7

Weight:

322

Class:

Jr.

Alt already was clearly a first-round prospect based on his sophomore film, but he looks even better as a junior — it won’t be a surprise if he finishes as OT1 for some NFL teams. For a tall blocker (nearly 6 feet 8), he does a terrific job with his redirect and recovery, and you’ll rarely see him stressed.

Even though he didn’t become a full-time offensive lineman until college, Alt plays with impressive technique and pad level.

Photo:

Ric Tapia / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

7

Dallas Turner

Edge

Alabama

Height:

6-4

Weight:

242

Class:

Jr.

When it comes to rushing the passer, Turner checks the boxes for both traits and production. He is explosive off the ball and into contact, and he plays with exceptional pursuit speed to chase down the football.

Turner is currently the only FBS player ranked top five nationally in sacks (7.0), pressures, pass-rush win rate and pass-rush win percentage.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

Edge

Jr.

8

Keon Coleman

WR

Florida State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

Because Coleman wasn’t yet a well-known name, I received some pushback when he debuted as WR4 in my initial positional rankings in July. Fast forward to the present, and the Michigan State transfer isn’t a secret any longer.

With his size/speed athleticism and acrobatic ball skills, Coleman (38 catches for 538 yards and nine TDs) is a freakish talent with the chance to be a dominant player. His flashes remind me of how Demaryius Thomas played when he was at Georgia Tech.

Photo:

Julio Aguilar / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

9

Laiatu Latu

Edge

UCLA

Height:

6-5

Weight:

265

Class:

R-Sr.

Similar to 2021 first-round pick Jaelen Phillips (both in terms of skill level and personal journey), Latu is an interesting prospect. He plays with only average bend, his arms aren’t very long and his medical history is a potential concern. But his motor runs hot, and he has a graduate degree in rush technique — specializing in cross-chops, arm-overs and lightning-fast hands.

Latu has accounted for a ridiculous 106 pressures in 21 games since he transferred to UCLA prior to last season.

Photo:

Ross D. Franklin / Associated Press

Edge

R-Sr.

10

JC Latham

OT

Alabama

Height:

6-6

Weight:

335

Class:

Jr.

A massive blocker, Latham carries his weight well in pass protection and plays with exceptional strength from head to toe. In the run game, he creates movement at contact and specializes in dumping linebackers at the second level.

He needs to be more consistent with his strike placement and protecting versus inside moves, but Latham has quickly and consistently improved since he arrived in Tuscaloosa. He has the goods to be a starting NFL right tackle next year.

Photo:

Vasha Hunt / Associated Press

OT

Jr.

11

Rome Odunze

WR

Washington

Height:

6-3

Weight:

217

Class:

Jr.

What’s not to like? Odunze is a verified 6 feet 2 7/8 and 217 pounds. He glides on the football field with plenty of speed (he won a state title in the 200 meters in high school), and he has natural receiving instincts plus the coordination to cleanly snatch the football.

I liked Odunze (51 catches for 907 yards and seven TDs) when I studied him over the summer, but I didn’t give him enough credit for the way he can impact the game.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

12

Chop Robinson

Edge

Penn State

Height:

6-3

Weight:

250

Class:

Jr.

For Robinson (5.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks) to be ranked this highly, it’d be great if he was more consistently dominant. But he’ll go on heaters (see: the Iowa tape), where he’ll just take over games for stretches with his instant speed and aggressive hands. He is a better prospect than Will McDonald IV, who was drafted No. 15 this past April.

Robinson exited the Ohio State game last Saturday with an injury and had to be carted to the locker room, but Penn State hopes to get him back soon.

Photo:

Ric Tapia / Associated Press

Edge

Jr.

13

Malik Nabers

WR

LSU

Height:

6-0

Weight:

200

Class:

Jr.

Although he is WR4 in this update, Nabers just as easily could be WR2 — there isn’t much separating him from Coleman and Odunze. For NFL teams, it’ll depend on the type of receiver they want.

Nabers (56 catches for 981 yards and nine TDs) has gliding speed to consistently win one-on-one vertical patterns downfield, but he also can stop on a dime to snap his routes and give his quarterback a window. Only two FBS receivers currently have at least 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Nabers.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

14

Nate Wiggins

CB

Clemson

Height:

6-2

Weight:

185

Class:

Jr.

Wiggins is long and fast with the sudden feet to easily redirect and stay attached to routes. There are a few concerning areas of his game, most notably his marginal play strength, but Wiggins (one INT, four passes defended) shows a knack for playing through the hands of receivers.

Though he gave up a touchdown in his return from injury against Miami on Oct. 21, he also had a pair of pass breakups and an impressive chase-down forced fumble.

Photo:

Michael Reaves / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

15

Jared Verse

Edge

Florida State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

260

Class:

R-Jr.

A fast and physical edge defender, Verse passed up a potential spot in last year’s first round for one more year in college, and he has helped the Seminoles jump out to an 8-0 start.

Verse (6.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks) hasn’t had the splashy impact most expected — he’s failed to record a sack in five of eight games so far — but he still looks like the same player from the 2022 tape, which isn’t a bad thing.

Photo:

Joshua Bessex / Associated Press

Edge

R-Jr.

16

J.J. McCarthy

QB

Michigan

Height:

6-3

Weight:

196

Class:

Jr.

Two months after entering the season as my QB3, McCarthy (1,799 yards passing, 21 total TDs) hasn’t done anything to surrender that spot. He is completing 78.1 percent of his passes with an 18-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio, while doing some of his best work on the move.

Considering Michigan’s schedule, NFL scouts are taking a wait-and-see approach with McCarthy — the month of November (featuring games at Penn State and versus Ohio State) will determine a lot.

Photo:

Gregory Shamus / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

17

Cooper DeJean

CB

Iowa

Height:

6-1

Weight:

207

Class:

Jr.

With his athletic traits, toughness and versatility, DeJean (two INTs, three passes defended, one punt-return TD) checks a lot of boxes, regardless of scheme. He is arguably the best run-defending defensive back in college football and plays sticky in coverage.

DeJean also offers value on special teams — his dramatic punt return against Minnesota may have been nullified, but it’s still on tape and added to his collection of splash plays as a returner and gunner.

Photo:

David Berding / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

18

Kool-Aid McKinstry

CB

Alabama

Height:

6-1

Weight:

195

Class:

Jr.

With his body control and balance, McKinstry (21 career passes defended) stays controlled in his transitions and takes advantage of his length to obstruct passing windows.

Though he doesn’t play panicked, he tends to hit cruise control at times and gets too conservative, which can lead to missed tackles or plays downfield. But there are still more positives than negatives to his game, and he projects as an immediate NFL starter.

Photo:

Brandon Sumrall / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

19

Amarius Mims

OT

Georgia

Height:

6-7

Weight:

330

Class:

Jr.

The No. 5 player in my preseason top 50, Mims looked primed for a breakout season, but he has been sidelined with an ankle injury. Nonetheless, I’m still captivated by his flashes and traits. He moves tremendously well for a 330-pounder and packs a punch behind his powerful hands.

With just five career starts to his name, Mims needs to establish his body of work, but I’ll bet on his baseline talent.

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

OT

Jr.

20

Emeka Egbuka

WR

Ohio State

Height:

6-1

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

An ankle injury sidelined Egbuka (22 catches for 303 yards, three TDs) for most of October, but the Ohio State offense looks much different when he’s on the field. In fact, the Buckeyes probably wouldn’t have beaten Notre Dame without him.

He is a magnet that can open voids in the defense, and he shows innate ball-judgement skills and hand strength. His skill set is more subtle than Marvin Harrison Jr.’s, but Egbuka is a pro-ready receiver.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

21

Jer'Zhan Newton

DT

Illinois

Height:

6-2

Weight:

295

Class:

Jr.

I’m sure Newton (35 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks) will get beaten up throughout the draft process, because he lacks desired size and length for the position. But he is consistently disruptive, regardless of which tape of his you study.

With his initial quickness, Newton creates vertical push and uses various snatch/pull techniques to shed blocks. And, thanks to his GPS for the football, he is just as productive defending the run.

Photo:

Chris Leduc / Icon Sportswire via Associated Press

DT

Jr.

22

Tyler Guyton

OT

Oklahoma

Height:

6-6

Weight:

319

Class:

R-Jr.

Similar to Amarius Mims, Guyton’s draft projection is based more on traits and upside than body of work, which can make it challenging to accurately rank him at this point. But he offers the big-man athleticism and movement skills that make it easy to be optimistic for his future.

Several NFL scouts believe his potential is greater than that of Anton Harrison, a 2023 first-rounder from Oklahoma.

Photo:

Kevin Jairaj / USA Today

OT

R-Jr.

23

J.T. Tuimoloau

Edge

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

270

Class:

Jr.

A physical presence for all four quarters, Tuimoloau (5.0 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks) wins the point of attack with aggressive hands and by using body leverage to pry open pass-rush lanes.

He needs to work on becoming more deceptive (like he was on his fake stunt against Olu Fashanu) to consistently beat NFL tackles, but his baseline traits make him a next-level starter.

Photo:

Michael Was / Icon Sportswire via Associated Press

Edge

Jr.

24

Shedeur Sanders

QB

Colorado

Height:

6-2

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

As my preseason QB6, Sanders just missed the initial top 50 in August. He absolutely earned his way onto the list this time with his play over the season’s first two months.

Sanders (2,637 yards passing, 25 total TDs) is guilty of holding the ball for too long when big-play hunting, but his ability to keep plays alive is an asset. Though he could use another year of seasoning, Sanders has the poise and physical talent to warrant a first-round pick if he declares for the 2024 draft.

Photo:

Dustin Bradford / Getty Images

QB

Jr.

25

Brian Thomas Jr.

WR

LSU

Height:

6-4

Weight:

205

Class:

Jr.

One of the biggest risers since the summer, Thomas (42 catches for 732 yards) is big, strong and fast — there shouldn’t be much mystery why he is ranked in the top 25. He leads the FBS in receiving touchdowns (11), and there aren’t many drops on his film.

The gap between Thomas and Malik Nabers is small, and some teams might even have Thomas as the higher-ranked receiver.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

26

Kalen King

CB

Penn State

Height:

5-11

Weight:

191

Class:

Jr.

There’s no way around it: King had a disappointing performance versus Ohio State, his most important tape of the season. Whether in the slot or outside, Marvin Harrison Jr. had little trouble creating separation against him, and King also committed two costly penalties (one took points off the board for Penn State; another set up Ohio State near the goal line).

King (25 career passes defended) is a talented and aggressive competitor and still belongs in the first-round discussion, but he must finish the season strong — including an important matchup against Michigan on Nov. 11.

Photo:

Scott Taetsch / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

27

Taliese Fuaga

OT

Oregon State

Height:

6-6

Weight:

334

Class:

R-Jr.

Oregon State has a few future NFL players on its offensive line, but Fuaga has been the most impressive of the group. He creates immediate displacement with his hands in the run game and escorts defenders away from the lane. His feet can get tied up at times against quality rushers, but he does a nice job with his pass-protection landmarks.

Photo:

Darren Yamashita / Getty Images

OT

R-Jr.

28

Terrion Arnold

CB

Alabama

Height:

6-0

Weight:

195

Class:

R-So.

Although he might not receive as much notoriety as teammate Kool-Aid McKinstry, Arnold (40 tackles, one INT, six passes defended) has played well this season and has NFL starting-level traits himself.

At 6 feet 0 and 195 pounds, he has quick, controlled footwork in his pedal and transitions to stay on top of routes. He also might be the most competitive corner in the draft.

Photo:

Butch Dill / USA Today

CB

R-So.

29

Jordan Morgan

OT

Arizona

Height:

6-5

Weight:

306

Class:

Sr.

If not for a late-season injury, Morgan could have been a top-50 pick in the 2023 draft. Instead, the left tackle returned to Arizona for his fifth season and is now playing his best football.

Morgan stays balanced in his pass sets and leverages his body and massive hands to answer pass rushers. Some NFL teams want to keep him outside; others are grading him as a guard.

Photo:

Mark J. Rebilas / USA Today

OT

Sr.

30

Patrick Paul

OT

Houston

Height:

6-7

Weight:

308

Class:

Jr.

Paul’s tape doesn’t scream ”first-round pick,” but his traits and upside could make him a Day 1 selection.

At 6 feet 7 and 308 pounds with 36 3/8-inch arms, the Houston native can overwhelm defenders and keep them occupied. However, he will struggle versus savvy and speed, and he needs to develop his hand use/timing before he is ready for NFL rushers.

Photo:

Michael C. Johnson / USA Today

OT

Jr.

31

Troy Franklin

WR

Oregon

Height:

6-2

Weight:

178

Class:

Jr.

With his straight-line speed, Franklin (52 catches for 867 yards and nine TDs) is a field-stretcher who can feast against press or off-man coverage. He has explosive leaping skills to high point and win catches over defensive backs.

Though he doesn’t have the same size, Franklin has some similarities in his game to what makes Christian Watson a weapon for the Packers.

Photo:

Lydia Ely / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

32

Chris Braswell

Edge

Alabama

Height:

6-3

Weight:

252

Class:

Sr.

If you watch the Alabama front seven to see Dallas Turner, Braswell (9.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles) inevitably will jump off the screen. There is some tightness when he turns the corner, but Braswell is able to slam his hands into blockers, convert his speed to power and collapse the pocket in different ways.

High-energy force players like Braswell usually find sustainable roles in the NFL.

Photo:

Gary Cosby Jr. / USA Today

Edge

Sr.

33

Troy Fautanu

G

Washington

Height:

6-4

Weight:

319

Class:

Jr.

A college left tackle, Fautanu has the talent and length to stay outside, but his body and play style suggest that an NFL move to guard could be what is best long-term.

Fautanu has NFL-level feet and movements, and he is playing with better composure and committing fewer penalties than last season.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

G

Jr.

34

Tyler Nubin

S

Minnesota

Height:

6-2

Weight:

210

Class:

R-Sr.

Currently tied for second in the Big Ten with three interceptions, Nubin (36 tackles, three passes defended) looks like a wide receiver with his ability to make plays on the ball.

If you saw his tears of joy after Minnesota’s win over Iowa, you also should understand how important winning is to him.

Photo:

Matt Krohn / USA Today

S

R-Sr.

35

Quinyon Mitchell

CB

Toledo

Height:

6-1

Weight:

199

Class:

Jr.

You don’t hear Mitchell mentioned much as a potential first-round pick, but you should. He is 6 feet 1 and 200 pounds with verified 4.3 speed, and those numbers translate well to the football field. The Toledo coaches feel confident leaving Mitchell (37 career passes defended) on an island, because they know they have an NFL talent.

Photo:

Michael Hickey / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

36

Jack Sawyer

Edge

Ohio State

Height:

6-4

Weight:

265

Class:

Jr.

While J.T. Tuimoloau receives most of the attention on the Ohio State defensive line, Sawyer’s impact has been instrumental to the Buckeyes’ success.

Built the right way at 6 feet 4 and 265 pounds, Sawyer (26 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks) is more good than great in several categories. He is well-rounded, though, and could be a valuable piece to an NFL defensive line with his aggressive and always-alert play style versus both run and pass.

Photo:

Joseph Maiorana / USA Today

Edge

Jr.

37

Denzel Burke

CB

Ohio State

Height:

6-1

Weight:

190

Class:

Jr.

The Big Ten leader in pass breakups (nine), Burke is a good-sized athlete with the feet to stay on top of routes. His aggressive tendencies downfield with his back to the football lead to volatility in his game, but his competitive makeup and movement skills are traits that can be coached up in the NFL.

Photo:

Michael Reaves / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

38

Ruke Orhorhoro

DT

Clemson

Height:

6-4

Weight:

288

Class:

Sr.

Although his production (5.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks) has been mediocre this season, Orhorhoro has the talent and traits that NFL coaches want in their building.

After not playing football until his junior year of high school, Orhorhoro has steadily been getting better and better each season, and he is still far from his ceiling.

Photo:

Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images

DT

Sr.

39

Ja'Lynn Polk

WR

Washington

Height:

6-2

Weight:

204

Class:

R-So.

Washington is the third team with multiple receivers in this top 50, joining Ohio State and LSU.

Polk (46 catches for 836 yards and seven TDs) makes outstanding adjustments on the football, and he boasts the size and concentration to win in traffic. I’m not sure what Polk’s timed speed will be, but he has the route acceleration to give his quarterback a window.

Photo:

Steph Chambers / Getty Images

WR

R-So.

40

Kamari Lassiter

CB

Georgia

Height:

6-0

Weight:

180

Class:

Jr.

Although he ultimately might not have the top-tier testing numbers NFL teams covet at cornerback, Lassiter (26 tackles, 10 career passes defended) is highly competitive with the controlled movements to shadow receivers at the next level.

According to NFL area scouts, those in the Georgia building “love” Lassiter, because he is one of the program’s best leaders and workers.

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

CB

Jr.

41

Barrett Carter

LB

Clemson

Height:

6-1

Weight:

225

Class:

Jr.

The only linebacker to make this top 50, Carter (43 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks) lacks ideal size, length and finishing power — which will make it tough for him to earn first-round grades. But he has above-average key-and-drive skills with the athletic twitch and sideline-to-sideline speed to pile up impact plays.

Photo:

Ken Ruinard / USA Today

LB

Jr.

42

Adonai Mitchell

WR

Texas

Height:

6-4

Weight:

192

Class:

Jr.

At 6 feet 4 and 196 pounds, Mitchell (29 catches for 427 yards and seven TDs) is a long, flexible athlete who possesses easy acceleration to immediately reach top speed. Though he is a loose mover, Mitchell also tends to be imprecise with his technique and must continue to improve his play strength.

I’m not sure that he will ever be as dominant as his traits suggest he can be, but that won’t stop an NFL team from finding out.

Photo:

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

43

Jayden Daniels

QB

LSU

Height:

6-3

Weight:

205

Class:

Sr.

Daniels (2,573 yards passing, 30 total TDs) put quality tape out there while at Arizona State, but he took a noticeable jump last season after transferring to LSU and looks even better in 2023.

His running ability is a valuable asset, but I’m most impressed with his confidence and control as a passer — both in the pocket and on the move. He leads the FBS in completions of 20-plus yards with 49.

Daniels has received starter-level grades from NFL scouts.

Photo:

Julio Aguilar / Getty Images

QB

Sr.

44

Landon Jackson

Edge

Arkansas

Height:

6-7

Weight:

281

Class:

Jr.

An LSU transfer, Jackson (34 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks) has shown flashes of dominance this season, most notably on the Alabama tape (11 tackles, 3.5 sacks).

At 6 feet 7 and 280 pounds, he is aware versus the run and has really smooth stride acceleration to work his way around blockers as a pass rusher. I promise you will start to hear Jackson’s name more and more as we move closer to the draft.

Photo:

Wesley Hitt / Getty Images

Edge

Jr.

45

Quinn Ewers

QB

Texas

Height:

6-2

Weight:

205

Class:

So.

Ewers (1,915 yards passing, 18 total TDs) has taken a step forward this season, especially with his performance at Alabama.

There is no doubt that he is an NFL quarterback, but determining his pro upside — high-end, mid-level or low-end starter? — still feels like a work in progress. It doesn’t help that Ewers is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Photo:

Peter Aiken / Getty Images

QB

So.

46

Bralen Trice

Edge

Washington

Height:

6-3

Weight:

280

Class:

Jr.

Fresh off a dominant performance versus Stanford (16 pressures, 2.0 sacks), Trice is starting to heat up after a relatively slow start. He won’t test off the charts with his speed or length, but his athletic urgency and physicality make it tough to keep him blocked.

Photo:

Joe Nicholson / USA Today

Edge

Jr.

47

Calen Bullock

S

USC

Height:

6-3

Weight:

195

Class:

Jr.

The USC defense has been a disaster this season, but Bullock has been one of the few bright spots. He leads the Trojans in passes defended (six) and interceptions (two, including a pick six) and has a rangy skill set reminiscent of 2021 second-round pick Trevon Moehrig.

Photo:

Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today

S

Jr.

48

Ladd McConkey

WR

Georgia

Height:

5-11

Weight:

185

Class:

Jr.

At 5 feet 11 and 185 pounds, McConkey doesn’t necessarily look impressive stepping off the bus. But then you see his speed, competitive ball skills and on-field impact, and you are reminded why he is one of the top playmakers in the SEC.

After missing the first month of the season due to injury, McConkey had a breakout game last Saturday against Florida (134 receiving yards, including 76 after the catch).

Photo:

Todd Kirkland / Getty Images

WR

Jr.

49

Graham Barton

G

Duke

Height:

6-5

Weight:

311

Class:

Sr.

A college left tackle, Barton most likely will move inside to guard or center in the NFL. Either way, he projects as a long-term starter.

He is athletic, keeps his blocks centered and finishes with a stubborn grip. Regardless of the position he plays, there are a lot of NFL teams that could use his skill set right now.

Photo:

Jaylynn Nash / USA Today

G

Sr.

50

Carson Beck

QB

Georgia

Height:

6-4

Weight:

215

Class:

Jr.

 

 

[Tex Long 4383]

1 hour ago, Park Gothic said:

Copypasta laziness, or lack of editing macro skills. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I still miss WordStar.

 

 

 

 

 

 

And DOS.

 

[DixonHur 11293]

https://archive.ph/CYdPd

See if this works

[DixonHur 11293]

He might have Ewers a little low since he's below Shedeur , but I also think Ewers will be a career back-up in the NFL, so he might have it right.

Also, if I were a GM, I would take Caleb over Drake because I think he has a greater upside.  He has a little of that Mahomes magic when the play breaks down.

[Tex Long 4383]

Doesn't Caleb run a lot? That seems to be much less desirable for NFL QBs, being as how the ones who do run have a tendency to get broken before too long. 

[52-80 19147]

At this point how do you not take MHJ first. Thats a guaranteed pro bowler. And drake maye isnt a Trevor Lawrence or Andrew Luck. 

Edited November 1, 2023 by 52-80

[DixonHur 11293]

9 minutes ago, Tex Long said:

Doesn't Caleb run a lot? That seems to be much less desirable for NFL QBs, being as how the ones who do run have a tendency to get broken before too long. 

In the games I've watched I haven't noticed a lot of designed QB runs, and he doesn't seem to take off early, but he can run effectively when the play breaks down.

[LTtxfan 49144]

 

[cmontexas 3270]

On 11/1/2023 at 4:09 PM, 52-80 said:

At this point how do you not take MHJ first. Thats a guaranteed pro bowler. And drake maye isnt a Trevor Lawrence or Andrew Luck. 

Harrison has trouble separating from Big 10 defensive backs. Im not sure he's WR1

[TonyTexas 10507]

On 11/1/2023 at 4:09 PM, 52-80 said:

At this point how do you not take MHJ first. Thats a guaranteed pro bowler. And drake maye isnt a Trevor Lawrence or Andrew Luck. 

Because a WR isn’t going to turn your franchise around. The teams with a shot at #1 either need a QB or could use the draft picks they would get in a trade. 

[Burt Macklin 19020]

55 minutes ago, cmontexas said:

Harrison has trouble separating from Big 10 defensive backs. Im not sure he's WR1

I have no idea what games you’re watching, but he’s averaging like 115 YPG in his last 5 Big 10 games, and he’s been graded by a lot of draftniks as the best WR prospect in years. He also just recently torched Penn State’s All-American CB for 11-162 with a bad QB throwing him the ball. I’m not saying he should be 1st overall, but he’s clearly the top WR in the draft and one of the best WR prospects in the last decade. 

[Fud 9552]

1 hour ago, cmontexas said:

Im not sure he's WR1

lol

[Burt Macklin 19020]

On 11/1/2023 at 4:02 PM, Tex Long said:

Doesn't Caleb run a lot? That seems to be much less desirable for NFL QBs, being as how the ones who do run have a tendency to get broken before too long. 

No. He mostly extends plays behind the LOS scrimmage to throw. He’s only averaging about 6 actual runs per game and that includes both designed runs and scrambles but not sacks. 
 

Injuries due to running isn’t much of a concern, it’s more about his ability to operate within a system instead of trying to create out of broken down plays and bad decisions under pressure. 

 

[52-80 19147]

MHJ is 6’3”, tough in physical contests, has great work ethics, and void of the ego plaguing most of the other talented WRs. 
 

Dude is like a mediumtron. 

[LTtxfan 49144]

College football all-star games to allow NFL draft-eligible juniors

Jeff Legwold, ESPN Sr Writer Nov 8, 2023

In a long-awaited change for some in the scouting community, NFL officials sent a memo to all 32 teams Wednesday to inform them that juniors who formally declare for April's NFL draft will now be allowed to participate in college football postseason all-star games, sources told ESPN.

Previously, only juniors who had already graduated could participate in the all-star games.

The letter, sources said, stated that juniors who formally have declared for the draft could participate, if invited, in the Senior Bowl, the East-West Shrine Game and the HBCU Legacy Bowl.

This past year, players who had been out of high school for at least three seasons had to formally submit their requests for special eligibility to enter the NFL draft by Jan. 16, and the list of the 69 players who were granted eligibility was given to teams Jan. 20.

Players arrived for the East-West Game on Jan. 26 for weigh-in and practices. Players arrived for Senior Bowl practices on Jan. 30. The HBCU Legacy Bowl held two padded practices for the players ahead of the Feb. 25 game.

In last year's draft, 62 underclassmen were selected, with 19 of those going in the first round.

 

 

[pacman 7355]

Quote

9. Quinn Ewers, Texas

Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 195 pounds
Class: Redshirt sophomore | Projected range: Late Day 2/early Day 3

Where he excels: After he turned in an inconsistent first season under center for the Longhorns, many evaluators wanted to see Ewers' production match the hype. In seven games, he has thrown for 1,915 yards, 13 touchdown passes and 3 interceptions, leading an offense that asks a lot of its quarterbacks. He is currently out with a shoulder injury.

Ewers was listed at 207 pounds last season, but he's now hovering around 195, and that has translated to more agility in the pocket and escapability -- he has five rushing scores. His mechanics are more urgent, too. Ewers has the arm strength and accuracy to make any type of throw, and I've seen good arm extension in his release. He has been able to throw in-rhythm and anticipate routes very well this season.

Where he needs work: While he has become a better passer in certain areas, Ewers' game-to-game consistency still remains a big question mark. A slow start in the season-opener against Rice was followed by the best performance of his career against Alabama (three TD throws and a 91.9 QBR). A similar sequence happened against Wyoming when he started 1-of-6 but then connected on his next six passes. Then, after two strong showings at Baylor and home against Kansas, he had a nightmare first quarter against Oklahoma (two interceptions on his first two drives) before completing a program-record 19 straight passes.

"I'm honestly still trying to figure him out," an AFC scout said earlier this year. "He's getting better each game under [coach Steve Sarkisian], but I still want to see him be more consistent each week."

Then there is his touch on passes to the deeper parts of the field. He's only completing 33.3% of his throws of 20-plus air yards, tied for 76th in the country.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/38496853/ranking-top-2024-nfl-draft-quarterbacks-hot-board-team-fits

[C-Man 27191]

53 minutes ago, pacman said:

https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/38496853/ranking-top-2024-nfl-draft-quarterbacks-hot-board-team-fits

This will make some posters' heads on the Ewers and MM threads assplode.

This is about where I see Ewers currently. I have questions about his durability, specifically his susceptibility to getting injured.

[D3zii 3675]

Man I remember a lot of ppl didn’t know how we would manage without Robinson and Johnson. Think we did quite well 

[TheStoicPaisano 9922]

Punt God Tory Taylor (iowa) has declared.

[LTtxfan 49144]

57 minutes ago, TheStoicPaisano said:

Punt God Tory Taylor (iowa) has declared.

 

[Fud 9552]

(No trades)

Very offensive heavy first round

1) Bears- Caleb Williams
2) Cardinals- Marvin Harrison Jr
3) Patriots- Drake Maye
4) Bears- Joe Alt
5) Commanders- Olu Fashanu
6) Giants- Malik Nabers
7) Buccaneers- Jayden Daniels
8') Jets- Brock Bowers
9) Chargers- JC Latham
10) Titans- Dallas Turner
11) Raiders- Nate Wiggins
12) Saints- Keon Coleman
13) Packers- Terrion Arnold
14) Rams- Laiatu Latu
15) Bengals- Rome Odunze
16) Bills- Amarius Mims
17) Cardinals- Jared Verse
18) Broncos- Kool-Aid McKinstry
19) Falcons- Chop Robinson
20) Vikings- Jer'Zhan Newton
21) Colts- Tyler Guyton
22) Seahawks- JJ McCarthy
23) Steelers- Brian Thomas Jr
24) Texans- Cooper DeJean
25) Dolphins- Troy Tautanu
26) Cowboys- Graham Barton
27) Lions- JT Tuimoloau
28) Jaguars- Emeka Egbuka
29) Chiefs- Patrick Paul
30) 49ers- Taliese Fuaga
31) Ravens- Quinyon Mitchell
32) Eagles- Kingsley Suamataia

 

 

[Fud 9552]

To show how offensive heavy the first round appears to be at this point...

First 9 are offense

10/32 picks are OL (and his #33 pick is another, so 11/33)
6/32 are WR
4/32 are QB

21/33 are OL/WR/QB

Nice chance for playoff teams to pick up a quality OL prospect that they might normally have a chance to draft in last third of the draft

[Fud 9552]

 

[The Dog 44019]

 

[tx 3 putt 76872]

Top 3 pick

 

[Fud 9552]

The top eleven are on offense in this mock

 

[Fud 9552]

It's a QB, WR, and OT draft, with high end talent and depth at all three spots 

[LTtxfan 49144]

4 hours ago, Fud said:

It's a QB, WR, and OT draft, with high end talent and depth at all three spots 

So is Xavier Worthy now moving into the 2nd Rd because he is a smaller fragile WR ??? 

 

[Fud 9552]

2 minutes ago, LTtxfan said:

So is Xavier Worthy now moving into the 2nd Rd because he is a smaller fragile WR ??? 

 

He might still go in the first, there are just a lot of first round worthy WRs, and he has questionable hands, questionable tracking, and has a sleight build, but he's also really fast

[The Dog 44019]

hot takes:

1. If Penix does to Michigan what he did to Texas then he'll be the first pick in the draft.

2. JJ McCarthy is going to get an NFL GM fired.

[Ignatius 4017]

11 hours ago, The Dog said:

hot takes:

1. If Penix does to Michigan what he did to Texas then he'll be the first pick in the draft.

2. JJ McCarthy is going to get an NFL GM fired.

Some teams are going to be scared off of Penix because he had four straight years of season-ending injuries and (to a lesser extent) because he’ll be 24 by the first game of his rookie year. Talent is unquestionable…

[The Dog 44019]

7 hours ago, Ignatius said:

Some teams are going to be scared off of Penix because he had four straight years of season-ending injuries and (to a lesser extent) because he’ll be 24 by the first game of his rookie year. Talent is unquestionable…

He's had two years where he was healthy so that's not much of an issue anymore. The age thing is interesting because it's clear guys like him and Nix have completely adjusted to the speed of the college game. How quickly will they adjust to the NFL? It's rare that a QB comes in and is ready for the speed of the NFL right away like Stroud. The rule is that QBs who stay in school end up having better careers so these two will test that theory. 

That's why i think the game against Michigan is important for Penix's draft stock (as well as the WRs). Michigan's defense is better than anything they have faced and if they can do to them what they did to us then not only do they win the title they all are going to be very, very high picks.

[Juicy 725]

20 hours ago, The Dog said:

hot takes:

 

2. JJ McCarthy is going to get an NFL GM fired.

If JJ gets a GM fired, its because they took fucking Caleb Williams over him. 

JJ has made some of the most insane throws I have seen any QB make. He definitely needs to clean up some decision making and not forcing throws. People who have only watched him in 2 games (TCU/Bama) are going to be in for a shock when 3 years from now he is the best QB in this class.

That said, if Michigan loses, he is coming back. 

[The Dog 44019]

18 minutes ago, Juicy said:

He definitely needs to clean up some decision making and not forcing throws.

This is exactly why I think he has high bust potential. Accuracy and decision making skills are the two biggest things you need to be a successful NFL QB. If he struggles with that behind that line and that dominant running game then you have to be concerned how he will do at the next level.

I do reserve the right to change my mind. If Michigan falls behind by 2 or more scores early against Washington and he can lead a comeback then that will go a long way towards doing so. 

23 minutes ago, Juicy said:

That said, if Michigan loses, he is coming back. 

If Michigan loses he needs to transfer to a place where he can air it out and develop as a passer. That isn't Michigan. Besides, Harbaugh is probably going to the NFL anyway so he won't be the only one.  

FWIW I'm rotting for Michigan as they were my childhood favorite so don't think I'm hating on the guy.