INDIANAPOLIS -- Infused with a record 102 underclassmen, the 2014
NFL Draft is one of the strongest classes this century.
That will certainly play into heightened competitiveness as 335 draft prospects parade their abilities for coaches and scouts here this week at the NFL Combine.
Here is a closer look at the top 64 players, as rated by NFLDrafScout.com heading into the Combine:
Rank/Player/Position/School/Height/Weight/40 time/Proj. Round
1. *Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina, 6-5, 274, 4.56, 1First, think Randy Moss. Enough natural athletic ability to be the best, but there are questions about if, when and how hard he will work. Next, think Jevon Kearse -- physically freakish combination of size, speed, explosion, agility. Clowney predicts he will blur through 40 yards in 4.4 seconds, ala Kearse (4.42). College career marred by obvious spells of fatigue from poor conditioning and battled a foot injury throughout last season that should be monitored.
2. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M, 6-5, 305, 5.08, 1The latest NFL prospect from the famous Matthews gene pool, Jake is the son of 19-year veteran Hall of Famer Bruce (Houston, Tennessee) and looks it. He doesn't have the quick-footed agility of former teammate Luke Joeckel, the No. 2 overall pick last year (Jacksonville), but, like dad, is more of an enforcer who can consume defenders. Moved from right to left tackle last season to protect QB Johnny Manziel's blind side and proved he is NFL ready.
3. *Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville, 6-2, 205, 4.67, 1His impressive production, passing accuracy and leadership abilities helped rate him as top QB prospect by NFLDdraftScout.com analysts, but there are a few concerns. His frame seems slight and even if he bulks up, durability might be an issue as he lacks that innate feel and smooth athleticism to move in and out of pocket. But, then, that might describe Tom Brady. A low release point -- from ear height -- may become an issue against taller, athletic defensive fronts.
4. *Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn, 6-5, 320, 4.98, 1Not a finished product, he has the physical, mental and emotional ability to be one of the NFL's best. Was not challenged to learn pro-type techniques in simplified Auburn offense, but raw ability was obvious in this quiet, respected team leader. Overcame rough, financially challenged upbringing in family disrupted by Hurricane Katrina. Father died in 2012, grandmother remains dominant figure.
5. *Blake Bortles, QB, Central Florida, 6-3, 230, 4.78, 1Of NFLDraftScout.com's trio of top 2014 quarterbacks, Bortles is the only one with no size concerns. Still, he doesn't have a truly powerful arm, but can make every throw necessary, if you allow for that occasional wobbler. Teammates respond to his natural, crunch-time, tough-guy, take-charge leadership. Smooth athlete who moves well, scans field, identifies secondary targets and maintains excellent geometric technique to maximize accuracy, velocity. Work ethic reflected in film study that often pushed curfew boundaries.
6. *Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson, 6-1, 205, 4.47, 1Not only has elite, explosive speed but deceives and dupes defenders with ability to shift gears and direction faster than a NASCAR driver faced with an 11-car pileup. That makes him dangerous after the catch and as a returner. Closed his Clemson career 16 catches, 227 yards, two scores in Orange Bowl. Must hold up to physical defenders at next level.
7. *Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M, 6-0, 210, 4.45, 1One of the most dynamic performers in college football history must now prove he can continue his magic in a league even tougher than the SEC, where in only two years he collected 9,989 total yards (7,,820 passing, 2,169 rushing), 93 touchdowns (63 passing, 30 running) and a Heisman Trophy (first freshman winner, 2012). He maintains flamboyant, spontaneous, vociferous style on and off the field, which concerns some who question his focus. But that's the package, which now includes his unpopular decision not to throw at combine. Otherwise, he has amazing football instincts, and an adequate arm with great accuracy. Can he produce in the NFL? The honest answer is, for now, nobody really knows. Some team must roll the dice to find out.
8. Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo, 6-3, 248, 4.64, 1Huge fish in smallish college pond with excellent combination of strength and speed that created consistent production as he set school records for sacks (28.5), tackles for loss (75) and forced fumbles (16). Played hybrid linebacker role in a 3-4 scheme, lining up with his hand on the ground and also standing up off the edge. Aggressive to the point of abrasive and sometimes irritated his own teammates.
9. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan, 6-7, 315, 5.09, 1Pronounced Luh-wan, this mass of might is a tough, tenacious run blocker who is still learning about being a pass blocker, but has great upside. A defensive lineman until his senior year in high school, Lewan played 50 games at left tackle (48 as starter) for Michigan, but is just beginning to blossom and was sometimes reminiscent of former Wolverine star Jake Long.
10. Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA, 6-4, 248, 4.48, 1Former prep running back fancied himself a dynamic Ricky Watters-type and wanted to play offense for Bruins. Originally lined up as H-back, but when coach Jim Mora asked him to try defense in 2012, Barr's future as a pro became immediately obvious. Hard-working team leader has respect of teammates, coaches and even opponents, who cannot ignore his ability to blow up plays all over the field with his speed and agility.
11. Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State, 5-11, 197, 4.52, 1After injury-marred 2012 season (sports hernia required two surgeries), Dennard exploded in 2013 to demoralize several offenses and win numerous awards, including the Jim Thorpe, Tatum-Woodson, and first-team All-America. Tough, plays with pain, but has history of injuries dating back to 2010 that could concern teams (sports hernia, shoulder, ankle, knee). Prepares hard and plays harder and excels at press-and-run.
12. Zack Martin, OT, Notre Dame, 6-4, 305, 5.22, 1Some teams may see Martin as a guard prospect because although he is obviously a talented offensive lineman, he is a bit short for a left tackle and perhaps not powerful enough for a right tackle. Still, he made a case for himself at tackle with a good showing in the Senior Bowl workouts and regardless of where he eventually lines up, teams agree that he has ample talent to be an outstanding starter somewhere up front.
13. *Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M, 6-5, 225, 4.58, 1Like his college battery-mate, quarterback Johnny Manziel, Evans has not convinced everybody his talent and production can be sustained at the next level. His big body, long-striding style and strong hands worked well in college, but he must learn to create more separation in the NFL, where his size won't give him that much of an advantage and his route running will need to be more precise.
14. *Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina, 6-4, 245, 4.67, 1He is talented but still unpolished even after setting school tight end single season records last year for receptions (62), receiving yards (973) as well as career receptions (112) and career receiving yards (1,805). A former prep and early college defensive end, Ebron has the ability to create size/speed mismatches as a receiver. If he bulks up he can be even more effective and aggressive in his overall game.
15. *Marqise Lee, WR, Southern Cal, 6-0, 195, 4.49, 1As a freshman phenom in 2011, Lee put his amazing athletic skills on display and looked the part of a top three pick destined for future Heisman discussions. He is an elite athlete who could do it all, and maybe still can. But with less complementary talent and a myriad of physical maladies, his last two years were less spectacular. Still, this is a tough kid from a tougher background filled with gangs, killings (brother was murdered) and family challenges (father is deaf). He never complained, just used his skills as a ticket out. And now it is time to get that ticket punched.
16. C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama, 6-2, 232, 4.65, 1Leader of the Crimson Tide's suffocating defense, Mosley is highly regarded in the scouting community and could end up as a top 10 pick in May. Says NFLDraftScout.com senior analyst Rob Rang: "Tough and athletic, with the keenest instincts of any linebacker I've scouted since Lofa Tatupu, Mosley is constantly around the ball and is often making big plays as a result. "
17. *Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri, 6-5, 275, 4.77, 1Former high school standout as tight end and defensive end and was a Missouri all-state basketball player. All that athleticism is conspicuous in his overall play, including burst off the line, quick spin moves and closing speed on whoever has the ball. Will need to improve arm and hand strength to be able to disengage big blockers at the next level.
18. *Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame, 6-2, 345, 5.17, 1Brick-strong body with nimble feet, Nix came off a solid 2012 season overweight entering 2013 and missed two games with knee tendinitis that should be monitored. He eventually played well enough to boost previous (2012) fourth-round draft projections up to first round. Plays with a high-rev motor that he needs to control to last four quarters, but is a highly coachable player and great teammate.
19. *Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, FS, Alabama, 6-1, 208, 4.54, 1Rated as one of the top two safeties coming out of high school, Dix lived up to his prep rep in coverage but comes up short in the physicality department. His instincts and ability to diagnose seem better than his athletic ability, which still is good enough to get him involved in more than his share of plays. Given name is Ha'Sean, but his grandmother gave him the unusual name he goes by.
20. Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State, 6-0, 200, 4.52, 1Texas prep sensation as quarterback, defensive back, returner, track star, basketball player, Gilbert's overall athleticism continues to be his best asset. However, he must show he is willing to maintain high level of play after admittedly becoming complacent in 2012 after a great 2011 season. He stood out again in 2013 with six interceptions, including two for touchdowns, and a 100-yard kickoff return.
21, Dee Ford, DE, Auburn, 6-2, 243, 4.67, 1Always respected by coaches and teammates, Ford finally became an obvious force to the rest of football in 2013 as an undersized edge rusher, finishing the regular season with 12.5 tackles for loss, including 8.5 sacks. He is a fluid athlete with impressive burst, agility and underrated strength.
22. Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh, 6-1, 288, 4.93, 1Donald was the most dominant and decorated defensive college football player in 2013 after totaling 59 tackles, including 28.5 for a loss, 11 sacks, 16 QB hurries, four forced fumbles and a blocked extra point. Per NFLDraftScout.com, he was an unblockable force from his defensive tackle position despite an array of schemes designed to slow him down. He was the the first Pitt defensive player to be a unanimous All-America selection since legendary defensive end Hugh Green in 1980.
23. *Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State, 6-2, 298, 4.98, 1Oft-used reserve started only two games before 2013, when he got more opportunity to show he can use his bullish strength to take on double teams and be disruptive inside. Jernigan must improve at shedding blockers to make an impact in the NFL. He works hard to learn the game. Maturity was questioned after making some questionable remarks on Twitter.
24. *Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama, 6-5, 310, 5.12, 1Kouandjio is a native of Cameroon who moved to U.S. when he was a child who honed his athleticism playing soccer. Alabama coaches believe he can be better than former linemate D.J. Fluker, an overall No. 11 pick. These are the same coaches who moved proven Barrett Jones inside to center after he had earned All-SEC honors at left tackle in 2011. That allowed Kouandjio to excel at left tackle spot the last two seasons.
25. *Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State, 6-5, 235, 4.54, 1Great size, speed and overall ability, but Benjamin needs to measure up in other ways. Average quickness hurts his ability to get separation, but he does have a knack at getting to the ball in tight coverage. Still, he doesn't consistently use his hands and allows too many balls to get to his body and drops more passes than he should. Showed immaturity and bad habits as a freshman, but work ethic has improved and he is a long ways from a sure thing.
26. Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota, 6-6, 318, 4.89, 1-2Former prep standout as tight end and basketball player, moved to the defensive line during his redshirt freshman season and literally grew into the position. He has it all and then some, with a combination of brute force and quick feet that has drawn comparisons to J.J. Watt, the 2012 NFL Defensive Player of the Year (Houston Texans).
27. *Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU, 5-11, 193, 4.49, 1-2Great genetics are obvious for Beckham, whose father was a running back at LSU and mother, the former Heather Van Norman, was a six-time All-American Track and national champion sprinter for the Lady Tigers. Little wonder that Beckham is smooth afoot and an explosive return man. However he lacks truly elite speed and is less than average in height. Last season he caught 59 passes for 1,152 yards and eight touchdowns and returned punts.
28. *Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville, 6-2, 208, 4.57, 1-2Pryor teamed with Hakeem Smith to create perhaps the best safety tandem in the country for 2013. Pryor was a hard-hitting junior who d compiled 69 tackles, 5.5 for a loss, three interceptions and two forced fumbles. In conference play, Pryor ranked 16th in tackles for all positions with 50, or 7.1 per game.
29. Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State, 6-2, 215, 4.78, 1-2The brother of former No. 1 overall pick David Carr (Houston, 2002), but wears No. 4 in honor of Brett Favre, whose never-quit attitude he admires. Like his brother, Derek an NFL-caliber arm, although not quite as strong as Favre's. Has better overall athleticism than either of them. In 2013 led the nation in total offense (4,983), total passing yards (4,866), passing yards per game (405.5), passing touchdowns (48) completions per game (35.33), touchdowns responsible for (50), total points responsible for (302) and points responsible for per game (25.2).
30. *Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech, 6-5, 260, 4.67, 1-2A big, fluid athlete, Amaro lined up mostly in the slot and used his thick body to gain position in coverage and used his large, soft hands to attack the ball in the air. He is a balanced route-runner and dangerous after the catch, even if defenders get both hands on him. He set NCAA record for single-season receiving yards by a tight end (1,352) and single-season receiving yards/game by a tight end (104.0).
31. *David Yankey, OG, Stanford, 6-5, 314, 5.08, 1-2A late bloomer on the offensive line, Yankey, born in Australia, weighed only 240-pounds as a junior in high school and worked hard to put on the needed weight. He was the first true freshman offensive lineman to see action for Stanford since 2000, but was lost for the season due to injury. Yankey returned and started all but one game the past three seasons (40 starts) at left guard and left tackle. Yankey has great footwork, natural power and great work ethic.
32. Jason Verrett, CB, TCU, 5-10, 176, 4.49, 1-2Still improving skills at corner after starring as running back and defensive back in high school, then stopping in junior college before joining TCU in 2012. Looks naturally fluid with smooth transition on flip and has the right approach mentally as an intimidator and physically as a tough guy. Selected first team All-America on several lists, second team by Associated Press. Allowed LSU's nifty Odell Beckham Jr. (27th on this list) only one catch.
33. *Ryan Shazier, OLB, Ohio State, 6-2, 230, 4.58, 1-2Former prep sensation as defensive end, played both inside and outside linebacker for Buckeyes and is the ultimate team-first player. Rangy athlete with explosive first step and stunning closing burst. His 101 tackles in 2013 ranks behind only Tom Cousineau (142), Chris Spielman (105).
34. *Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State, 6-3, 210, 4.54, 1-2Fluid athlete for his size with room to get stronger. Deceptive acceleration with sharp cuts to be a dangerous catch-and-go pass catcher. Physical ballcarrier with balance and body strength to shake off defenders and pick up chunks of yards after contact. Has shown return ability. Reset his own school mark in 2012 with 97 catches for 1,432 yards. His combined 174 receptions and 2,445 receiving yards the past two years both rank No. 3 in Big Ten history for consecutive seasons.
35. Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia, 6-6, 325, 5.28, 1-2Naturally large -- sometimes too much so -- man with nimble feet and good overall strength. Has looked adept at playing either side. Enrolled at 350-plus pounds and will be one of those players who constantly fights against gaining weight.
36. *Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG, UCLA, 6-3, 305, 5.18, 1-2Work ethic was obvious early in life when he became an Eagle Scout and has already completed his two-year Mormon missionary work. Su'a is the most pro-ready player on UCLA's talented offensive line. A veteran of 38 career starts. Powerfully-built to handle bull rushes but has lateral agility and balance as a pass blocker.
37. *Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State, 5-10, 186, 4.49, 1-2Stockton, California's Sonic Boom has been an explosive sprinter and football player since high school. Lacks ideal size, but is a tough character who never missed a game at any level. Put the ball in his hands and enjoy his dazzling showmanship. Won the Biletnikoff Award in 2013 after leading the FBS with 1,670 yards receiving in the regular season.
38. Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU, 6-3, 244, 4.68, 1-2Instinctive linebacker with excellent reaction skills. Athletic enough in coverage, locates the ball quickly and provides good effort in pursuit. Impressed at the Senior Bowl with his fluidity in coverage by closing quickly to bat away multiple passes during practices. Must get stronger to cope with NFL blockers.
39. *Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida, 6-0, 195, 4.52, 1-2Physical, fearless in coverage, aggressive in pursuit and plays with attitude. He must work to refine his, well, hands-on work downfield and learn to work in space. A product of prep powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas' (15-0 his senior year), but had his initial college season cut short with a neck injury (2011) and last year missed several games with a knee injury and was suspended for one game for violating team rules.
40. *Stephon Tuitt, DT, Notre Dame, 6-6, 312, 4.92, 1-2Intriguing prospect who has plenty of natural ability but has the attitude of an under-equipped overachiever, possibly the result of strict upbringing by mother, Tamar Bartlett, a deputy sheriff who demanded discipline. Last year he had six of his career 20 sacks after starting slowly. An interception last year and previous 77-yard fumble return TD reflect background as prep tight end.
41.*Ka'Deem Carey, RB, Arizona, 5-10, 207, 4.53, 2More determined than deceptive, Carey led the nation with 1,929 rushing yards in 2012, then came back bigger and stronger last year to push his streak of 100-yards rushing to 16 games, the most for any FBS player in ten years. Averaged 157.1 yards a game at 5.4 a carry in 2013. Strength is his strength, along with excellent vision and the ability to make blink-quick cuts. Lacks elite straight-line speed, but never runs a straight line anyway.
42. *Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State, 6-3, 265, 4.73, 2Take-charge team player who leads verbally and by example. He started 37 of the 38 games in which he played for Beavers and finished career with 165 tackles, 51 for a loss, and 22.5 sacks. Has good core strength, decent leverage, powerful hands and should be a DLE in an NFL 4-3 setup.
43. Trent Murphy, DE, Stanford, 6-6, 252, 4.82, 2On-field play reflects off-field hobby -- steer wrestling. Murphy is country strong with great leverage and powerful hands that can hogtie or throw aside anything in reach. But, absent a lasso, he needs faster giddy up in his get along. Impactful starter since 2011 and respected leader on a team of leaders. Missed final 10 games in 2010 with unknown leg injury. Maybe a steer kicked him.
44. *Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State, 5-11, 192, 4.39, 2After redshirting the 2010 season as a true freshman, Roby started all 13 games at cornerback in 2011 and quickly flashed his world class speed while leading team with three interceptions. He sat out 2013 opener (suspension after arrest for battery in bar fight) and shook off a so-so start to register a good season. Had more than his share of bothersome injuries the last two years.
45. *Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Washington, 6-6, 276, 4.75, 2Mackey Award winner as top college tight end, AS-J is a massive target and goes after the ball with excellent body control. Although not as physically dominant as his size suggests, especially as blocker, he becomes an imposing runner with ball in his hand. Convicted of DUI after single car accident last March, was suspended one game and dedicated time talking to groups about drinking and driving.
46. Trevor Reilly, OLB, Utah, 6-5, 255, 4.67, 2As mature and responsible as you might expect of a 26-year old married man with two children, an Eagle Scout badge and a resume that includes a two-year Mormon Mission in Sweden. He was Utah's best player last season, leading the team in tackles (100), tackles for loss (16), sacks (8.5) and fumble recoveries (3). Versatile athlete with strength, agility and know-how to fit in either 3-4 or 4-3. Missed all-star games due to minor cleanout on right knee (had ACL surgery in 2012).
47. Lamarcus Joyner, CB, Florida State, 5-8, 190, 4.52, 2NFLDraftScout.com says NFL teams will be hard-pressed to find a better inch-for-inch defender in the country, but the fact is he is only 5-foot-8. This tough, versatile, instinctive defender played strong safety in 2011 and earned second-team All-ACC honors there. Joyner started all 14 games as a junior, giving him 27 consecutive starts at safety before moving back to cornerback. Excellent return skills.
48. Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt, 6-3, 209, 4.55, 2Cousin of the legendary Jerry Rice, Matthews is a better football player than he is an athlete. He led the SEC with a gaudy 19.0 yards-per-catch average last season with above average speed that is more deceptive than sudden. Good size allows team to find him favorable matchups. Career totals: SEC's all-time leader with 262 receptions and 3,759 receiving yards.
49. Gabe Jackson, OG, Mississippi State, 6-4, 339, 5.34, 2Three-year starter and the son of a high school coach has more than enough size, strength, ability to be a top-notch player. The concern is that he doesn't play at that high level consistently. Has tantalizing balance of overall power, agility and great feet, but sometimes misses things he should pick up, which could be dangerous for NFL quarterbacks.
50. *Tre Mason, RB, Auburn, 5-9, 205, 4.52, 2Runs bigger than he measures, using quick feet and a one-cut-and-go approach. Lacks OMG speed, but is fast enough to be all-the-way threat on most plays. Mason leaves Auburn after rushing for more than a 1,000 yards each of the past two seasons, including his 1,816 yards in 2013, a mark that broke Jackson's record of 1,786 yards set in 1983.
51. Jackson Jeffcoat, DE, Texas, 6-4, 250, 4.78, 2Still seems to show more potential than production, but is attractive because he has the athleticism to play with his hand on the ground or stand up and drop into coverage. Was sidelined by severely sprained ankle in 2010 and then a torn pectoral muscle in 2012 for which he had surgery. His father, Jim, was a standout defensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys (1983-94) and Buffalo Bills (1995-97) and has served as the defensive line coach at the University of Houston and Colorado.
52. Travis Swanson, C, Arkansas, 6-5, 310, 5.26, 2Lacks ideal speed, but Swanson has the athleticism to pull in running game and seal off defenders when blocking straight ahead. Solid making line calls. Started all 50 games of his Razorback career, tied for the second-longest active streak in the country at the end of 2013. Blocked for the first season in school history with a 3,000-yard passer and a 1,000-yard rusher in 2010, and two seasons with a 1,000-yard rusher.
53. *Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee, 6-6, 327, 5.16, 2Meet "Tiny," who is anything but. Still, Richardson answers by that nickname even has he uses his huge, natural size and strength to dominate even the best defenders. But to continue to do so in the NFL he must work on technique, such as keeping his feet moving. In 2012 he handled South Carolina pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney (No. 1 on this list), but wasn't quite as impressive in the 2013 rematch when Clowney bull-rushed him a few times.
54. Dominique Easley, DT, Florida, 6-2, 285, 4.93, 2If health weren't a concern, Easley might be discussed as a potential top-10 pick, according the NFLDraftScout.com's Dane Brugler. But after two ACL tears, both on non-contact plays, durability is a major red flag. He came back from a left ACL in 2011, then blew out his right ACL last September. A healthy Easley has exceptional get-off quickness, constantly playing on the other side of the line of scrimmage.
55. *Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU, 6-0, 195, 4.49, 2Fearless receiver with strong hands and not an easy target to tackle after the catch. Career included 137 catches for 1,809 yards and 15 touchdowns. Has adequate speed, but lacks burst to cause quick separation. Reminds NFLDraftScout's Dane Brugler of Denver's Eric Decker.
56. Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State, 6-0, 235, 4.62, 2North-south runner blasted for 1,527 yards last year, the first running back for an Urban Meyer-coached team to rush 1,000 yards in a season. More impressive, he did it despite missing first three games on suspension for an altercation with a woman in a Columbus nightclub last summer. "I go out every game with the mindset that I have to make up for those three games," Hyde said in October. "That suspension ... really hurt."
57. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, Eastern Illinois, 6-2, 219, 4.78, 2Created a buzz as he broke all of Tony Romo's career school records, as well as all of the Ohio Valley Conference passing records. Won the Walter Payton Award in 2013 after throwing for 5,050 yards and 53 touchdowns. His career totals include 13,156 yards passing, 118 touchdowns. Garoppollo overcomes a lack height and arm strength with quick thinking and good understanding of his pass-happy offense.
58. *Davante Adams, WR, Fresno State, 6-2, 216, 4.56, 2In 2013, as a sophomore, led the nation with 131 catches for 1,719 yards and 24 touchdowns. Powerfully-built receiver with deceptive speed and outstanding leaping ability. He was quarterback Derek Carr's favorite receiver for a lot of reasons, including a tenacity that helped him win battles for the ball. Student of the game, focused on maxing his abilities.
59. Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech, 6-0, 194, 4.45, 2Fuller pulled out of the Senior Bowl after dealing with a sports hernia throughout his senior year. He had surgery in November. Although he lacks great speed, Fuller plays like a natural who has the athleticism to cover and the aggressiveness to play the run.
60. Telvin Smith, OLB, Florida State, 6-3, 218, 4.60, 2Rangy athlete with loose hips and springs in his legs. Aggressive blitzer with explosive first step and closes quickly with evil intent. Fluid in his cover drops and plays natural in space. Excellent read-and-react instincts to diagnose and attack without hesitation. Light, but physical and won't shy from point of attack contact. Motivated, hard-working leader who needs to add some muscle.
61. Jack Mewhort, OT, Ohio State, 6-6, 306, 5.28, 2Versatile offensive line prospect who played at every spot except center, and projects as a right tackle. Mewhort looked strong during drills at the Senior Bowl, making it difficult on rushers who lined up across from him. He utilizes every inch of his tall, stout frame (6-6, 306 pounds) and large wingspan (80 1/4 inches) to engulf and control rushers. Has two arrests, including one last May for public urination and for evading the police.
62. Jimmie Ward, SS, Northern Illinois, 5-11, 191, 4.59, 2Ward came off a 95-tackle, seven interception senior season at NIU and then further impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl. He is smart, heady and puts himself in position to succeed, using his speed and range to cover the deep half of the field. NFLDraftScout.com's Rob Rang said Ward was the Senior Bowl's most impressive pass defender this year.
62. *Ed Reynolds, FS, Stanford, 6-2, 206, 4.54, 2Reynolds is physical, instinctive and has lanky build that teams like for at the position. Shows ability to handle athletic tight ends, which is becoming more important every year in the NFL. Had only one highly-productive season in terms of creating turnovers while playing on a defense with dominant front seven. Father, also Ed Reynolds, was an NFL linebacker for New England and the New York giants (1983-92).
63. *Bishop Sankey, RB, Washington, 5-10, 203, 4.49, 2-3Despite inconsistent offensive line and quarterback play in 2013, Sankey broke Corey Dillon's single-season school rushing record with 1,870 yards and scored 20 touchdowns in 13 games. The total seems better than the sum of his parts, but shows an impressive jump-cut and rarely takes flush hits. Durable player who never missed a game and was voted team captain as a junior.
64. Will Sutton, DT, Arizona State, 6-1, 315, 4.94, 2-3After missing the 2011 season for academic reasons, Sutton's play the next two years made that off-field issue, well, academic. He earned the Pac-12 Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year in both 2012 and 2013, a back-to-back feat accomplished previously by only Steve Emtman, a No. 1 overall pick in 1992. Sutton Has a compact build that gives him leverage advantage over most NFL offensive linemen. He has a knack of timing the snap and shows an explosive burst to slip through gaps.
--Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, covered the NFL and the draft since the 1960s and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
