[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (1 Viewer)

[Xue]

Let me know when you want to do some real analysis on these players. Just not stereotype them.

I've seen plenty of guys like Lee, Cooks, and Richardson over their careers. I don't agree with your assessments. Doesn't mean I don't know what I'm talking about. Amazing as it might seem, you aren't the only one who watches football games or has opinions on players.

I actually had the first post on these forums about Paul Richardson back in August of 2011:

http://forums.footballguys.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=580252&page=3#entry13408533

Looking ahead, I think Keenan Allen (Cal), Lache Seastrunk (Oregon), and Paul Richardson (Colorado) are some of the lesser known 2013-2014 prospects who have a chance to become standouts. Allen was the best athlete on Cal's offense last season as a true freshman. If you are in a DEEP dev draft and you want to take some flyers, I would consider these guys.

I actually just watched Oregon State play Stanford a couple weeks ago. Cooks wasn't even the best WR on the field. His own coach described Ty Montgomery as "Brandin Cooks on steroids." I actually think Cooks is a pretty good player, but I think any coach in the conference would rather have Marqise Lee. That's not some huge slight against Cooks. Lee is just the better overall athlete and WR. I think he's the best WR to come through the conference in the last 5+ years.

Being that short is a legitimate handicap for Cooks and even though guys like Steve Smith and (to a lesser extent) Antonio Brown have been great, they're the exceptions and not necessarily the rule. Other players like Mike Thomas (Arizona) have struggled to make the jump. It would probably be unfair to compare Cooks to Mike Thomas or Jacoby Ford, but if I were drafting tomorrow I don't think he'd a be a top 45 pick for me, whereas I'd take Lee in the 15-30 range.

Coaches say a lot of things, the least of which is how they really feel. Just more meaningless narratives.

Mike Thomas is half the player Cooks is in college. Jacoby Ford couldn't stay healthy. He had a nice run when he was. The closest thing to Steve Smith I ever saw. Couldn't really polish his game either.

 

[Faust]

NFLDraftScout.com 2014 NFL Mock Draft 11/6/13

 

[Faust]

Big Board: NFL teams eager to find DTs to counter athletic QBs


by Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

Nov. 7, 2013 7:48 PM ET

The proliferation of dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks is sending NFL teams on a hunt for penetrating defensive tackles capable of collapsing the pocket from the inside out, funneling the new-age passers to linebackers.

As such, quickness may be overtaking size and strength as a preferred trait among interior defensive linemen, making explosive defenders like Aaron Donald (Pittsburgh), Will Sutton (Arizona State) and Dominique Easley (Florida) more highly regarded in the 2014 NFL Draft than they might have been only a few years ago.

So-called undersized defensive tackles will have plenty of competition; the 2014 draft class could be loaded with talented traditional interior defenders, starting with Minnesota senior Ra'Shede Hageman.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or the projected selection order. It is simply a ranking of the 32 best prospects potentially eligible for the 2014 NFL Draft.

1. Jadeveon Clowney*, DE, South Carolina (6-6, 268): Clowney has failed to live up to our astronomical expectations, but scouts aren't as concerned with his mediocre production as the media seems to be. When on the field, Clowney remains a dominating presence capable of making a game-changing play on each snap of the ball. He produced his best game of 2013 on Oct. 19 in a highly anticipated rematch with Tennessee left tackle Antonio Richardson.

2. Teddy Bridgewater*, QB, Louisville (6-3, 220): In an era in which college quarterbacks' numbers are often inflated by short passes and relatively simplistic schemes, Bridgewater's sparkling production is due to Pro Bowl-caliber accuracy. His success (73.2 percent completion rate with 23 touchdowns against only two interceptions) comes out of a pro-style offense that forces him to make tough throws. Bridgewater's slight frame and level of competition are concerns.

3. Marcus Mariota*, QB, Oregon (6-3, 214): Say what you will about Oregon's up-tempo offense, but the fact that Mariota has attempted 225 passes for 2,281 yards and 20 touchdowns and still hasn't been intercepted is a testament to his accuracy and decision making. He'll have his toughest matchup of the regular season in Palo Alto on Thursday against a physical and savvy Stanford defense.

4. Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA (6-4, 238): A running back until last season, Barr exploded in 2012 to the tune of 21½ tackles for loss and 13½ sacks. He has been equally dominant this year (38 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, six sacks, four forced fumbles in seven games), demonstrating a combination of quickness and power that translates into rare explosiveness.

5. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M (6-5, 305): Any questions about Matthews' ability to hold up at left tackle might have been answered with dominating performances against Arkansas' speedy Chris Smith and Mississippi's powerful Robert Nkemdiche. The son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, Jake proves the cliché true -- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

6. Sammy Watkins*, WR, Clemson (6-1, 200): Watkins was one of the few Clemson players who appeared unfazed by Florida State's speed a few weeks ago. Watkins accounted for nearly double the all-purpose yardage of any other Clemson player against the Seminoles, demonstrating the explosiveness and soft, reliable hands that help him project as a No. 1 receiver in the NFL.

7. C.J. Mosley, OLB, Alabama (6-2, 232): While a bit undersized, Mosley might be the best pound-for-pound player in the country. Athletic and instinctive, he is a true three-down linebacker capable of making plays against the run and pass.

8. Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo (6-3, 248): With an eye-popping 56 tackles for loss, 18 sacks and 11 forced fumbles already on his résumé entering the 2013 season, rest assured that scouts knew Mack well. The best player outside of BCS schools, Mack stepped up with dominating efforts against Ohio State and Connecticut this year to establish himself as a legitimate top-20 prospect.

9. Eric Ebron*, TE, North Carolina (6-4, 245): Ebron doesn't get nearly the national attention of Washington's Austin Seferian-Jenkins or other highly regarded tight ends, but scouts are fascinated with his rare combination of size and speed. The UNC staff was so enamored with Ebron's athleticism and physicality that they lined him at defensive end at times last season. The junior needs polish, but is precisely the type of physical mismatch the NFL is looking for in today's tight end.

10. Cameron Erving*, OT, Florida State (6-5, 310): Erving played in 13 games as a redshirt freshman defensive tackle but looked like a natural when moved to left tackle a season ago. Long, balanced and athletic, he's a hidden factor in the dynamic play of freshman quarterback Jameis Winston. Erving erased Clemson's Vic Beasley, who entered the big ACC matchup on Oct. 19 leading the country with eight sacks.

11. Johnny Manziel*, QB, Texas A&M (5-11, 210): After the season, scouts will poke holes in Manziel's grade due to less-than-ideal size and the distraction he might prove to be off the field. During the season, however, it is impossible not to simply marvel at his magical ability on it. Showing the same remarkable elusiveness as a year ago and improved arm strength, Manziel is a first-round pick whenever he elects to leave College Station.

12. Mike Evans*, WR, Texas A&M (6-5, 225): Like his famous quarterback, Evans is a redshirt sophomore, but he could have quite the decision to make after the season if he continues to dominate the SEC. Deceptively fast with great body control as well as timing, Evans is an exciting split end prospect who reminds scouts of Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Vincent Jackson.

13. Cyrus Kouandjio*, OT, Alabama (6-5, 312): Some questioned the wisdom of moving Barrett Jones from left tackle (where he won the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the SEC's best lineman) to center in 2012. The reason for the switch was Kouandjio, a physically blessed athlete who some have compared to former Redskins Pro Bowl left tackle Chris Samuels, the No. 3 overall pick out of Alabama in 2000.

14. Antonio Richardson*, OT, Tennessee (6-6, 332): Boasting an exciting combination of size, athleticism and power, "Tiny" looks like the second coming of former Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl tackle Erik Williams. After containing Clowney a year ago, however, Richardson struggled in his rematch with the South Carolina star, consistently getting beaten off the snap.

15. Trent Murphy, DE/OLB, Stanford (6-6, 261): Used as a standup outside linebacker as a well as a down defensive lineman for the Cardinal, Murphy is equally impactful in the passing game, running game and on special teams. Eight tackles, including 3½ tackles for loss, 2½ sacks, a blocked kick and a pass broken up against Oregon State on Oct. 26 earned Murphy my Top Prospect of Week 9.

16. Marqise Lee*, WR, Southern Cal (6-0, 195): Lee has been hampered by a knee injury and unsteady play at quarterback this season, but he has also dropped too many passes. A year after scoring 14 touchdowns as part of a Biletnikoff-winning campaign, Lee has only one TD this season. Lee's struggles could push him down the board, but he has too much impressive tape to drop too far.

17. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan (6-7, 310): With an incredible combination of size and athletic ability, Lewan has earned comparisons to former Michigan standout Jake Long throughout his career with the Wolverines. Lewan has been the obvious bright spot up front for Michigan, which has struggled with injuries and penalties.

18. Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota (6-6, 311): Blessed with an extraordinary combination of size and athleticism, Hageman could join Michael Brockers and Dontari Poe as recent big defensive tackles whose real rise up draft boards doesn't begin until the scouting combine. Hageman looked unblockable at times in Minnesota's Oct. 26 upset of Nebraska, logging two tackles for loss, including a sack.

19. Ryan Shazier*, OLB, Ohio State (6-2, 226): Shazier might be 10-15 pounds lighter than scouts would prefer but his instincts, speed and bone-jarring hits make him a fearful defender that offenses must account for on every snap. The Buckeyes' leading tackler and most consistent defender, Shazier stood out in their comeback win against Iowa.

20. Vic Beasley*, OLB, Clemson (6-3, 235): Beasley led Clemson with eight sacks in limited duty as a sophomore and already has 10 through nine games in 2013. Like most of the Tigers, Beasley struggled against Florida State, the most talented team he'll face in the regular season. Beasley is similar to surprise 2012 first-round pick Bruce Irvin for his slim frame and explosive burst, but Beasley also flashes rather than dominates.

21. Cedric Ogbuehi*, OT, Texas A&M (6-5, 300): Overshadowed by all of the talent on the Aggies' roster, Ogbuehi is an exciting prospect in his own right. A standout at right guard a year ago, Ogbuehi (pronounced ah-BOO-hee) stands to make a lot of money if he continues his early stellar play at right tackle. He informed the media Oct. 18 of his intentions to return to College Station for his senior season, but might rethink things should the undisclosed injury that kept him sidelined the past two games (UTEP, Vanderbilt) prove serious.

22. Cyril Richardson, OG, Baylor (6-5, 335): A dominating drive blocker who projects best at guard but spent the 2011 season protecting Robert Griffin III at left tackle, Richardson is massive, powerful and shockingly athletic. Scouts love Richardson's talent, but the extended splits in Art Briles' scheme fooled us before with former first-round picks Jason Smith (No. 2 overall in 2009) and Danny Watkins (No. 23 in 2011).

23. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix*, FS, Alabama (6-1, 208): Death, taxes and a Nick Saban-coached defensive back earning first-round grades from NFL scouts are among the sure things in life. Clinton-Dix has an exciting combination of athleticism and instincts. He quickly proved back to his playmaking ways following a two-week suspension for accepting a loan from an Alabama coach by logging five tackles and recording his first interception of the season against Arkansas.

24. Stephon Tuitt*, DL, Notre Dame (6-5, 303): Offseason sports hernia surgery might have played a role in Tuitt weighing 20 pounds more this season than a year ago, and early on the extra weight seemed to slow him. He has played much better of late and is simply too gifted to fall far on draft day should the junior elect to leave South Bend early.

25. Jason Verrett, CB, TCU (5-10, 182): Verrett lacks the size so en vogue in today's NFL, but agility and ball skills never go out of style for cornerbacks. Verrett led the Big 12 with 22 passes defended and six interceptions in 2012. His stellar coverage (six tackles, two passes broken up) against Oklahoma on Oct. 5 earned him the Top Prospect of Week 6.

26. Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU (6-3, 235): While Ziggy Ansah received most of the hype at BYU in 2012, Van Noy was far and away the more consistent defender, registering an eye-popping 22 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, six forced fumbles, two interceptions and two blocked kicks. Van Noy isn't as physically dominating as his former teammate, but his instincts and agility make him a playmaker nonetheless.

27. Brandon Scherff*, OT, Iowa (6-5, 315): The latest of Kirk Ferentz's prodigies along the offensive line, Scherff ranks among the more physical run blockers in the country. A left tackle for the Hawkeyes, his future might lie at right tackle or even inside at guard; he does not have the ideal athleticism to handle NFL speed rushers.

28. Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh (6-0, 285): Donald might not look the part of a high-round draft pick but his burst off the snap and quick, active hands make him a tough matchup for offensive linemen. Through eight games, Donald has nine sacks. Scouts are eager to see what he can do in November with the Panthers' toughest opponents (including Notre Dame, North Carolina and Miami) coming up.

29. Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State (6-0, 200): In terms of size, agility and speed, no cornerback offers a more intriguing skill set than the Cowboys star. Gilbert ranks among the nation's leaders with four interceptions this season (through eight games) and has returned five kickoffs for touchdowns during his time in Stillwater.

30. Will Sutton, DT, Arizona State (6-0, 305): Perhaps due to concerns about how he would hold up in the NFL, Sutton gained weight for his senior season and hasn't been as dominant as last year, when he recorded an astounding 23½ tackles for loss and 13 sacks. Though Sutton's production has tailed off (5½ tackles for loss, two sacks through eight games), some of this is due to the extra attention he has received after winning the Morris Trophy a year ago as the Pac-12's best defensive lineman (over Dion Jordan and Star Lotulelei, among others).

31. Dominique Easley, DT, Florida (6-2, 285): Easley has a longer, leaner frame than the two "undersized" defensive tackles ranked ahead of him and his production has come against better competition. Easley suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee in late September and must prove his health before any NFL team is willing to invest a high pick, but his explosiveness made him a standout in the SEC throughout his career.

32. Ka'Deem Carey*, RB, Arizona (5-10): Carey led the country with 1,929 rushing yards in 2012. Despite sporting a noticeably bulkier, stronger frame, he is on pace to pass that production this year. With great vision, quickness and improved power, Carey is one of the few running backs with the complete game to warrant first-round consideration.

Just missed the cutBishop Sankey*, RB, Washington
Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
Louis Nix III*, DT, Notre Dame
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu*, CB, Oregon
Lache Seastrunk*, RB, Baylor
Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
Michael Sam, DE, Missouri
Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
Ego Ferguson*, DT, LSU

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

The average length of Colorado redshirt junior WR Paul Richardson's eight touchdown catches is 51.5 yards.
This is obviously a huge number and will be tough to keep up for the rest of the season. Richardson has plenty of talent, especially considering the lack of a surrounding cast at Colorado. We wouldn't be surprised to see him declare for May's draft.

Source: Adam Jude on Twitter

NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah believes Oregon junior OW De'Anthony Thomas projects as a slot receiver at the next level.
"Thomas isn't going to have much room inside the tackle box, but his speed could be a factor on the perimeter," Jeremiah said of Thomas' role against Stanford. "He has soft hands and he's incredibly elusive when he gets the ball in space." He has a very narrow build, and won't win in contested situations at the catch point, but Thomas shines in the open field.

Source: Daniel Jeremiah on Twitter

NFL.com's Gil Brandt would try Florida senior TE Trey Burton at RB or S if he ran an NFL team.
Burton, a former quarterback, has caught 31 passes for 347 yards and a touchdown this season. He is filling a similar role to what Jordan Reed played last year, but Reed is a much more fluid mover. We aren't sure a position switch is necessary, since Burton has flashed in his short time as a receiving tight end.

Source: NFL.com

NFL.com's Gil Brandt believes Virginia Tech senior Logan Thomas would have a better chance at NFL success at a different position than QB.
"I would draft Thomas, but I would work him out and see how he caught the ball and ran routes," Brandt writes. "It's my opinion that he would have a much better chance of being a longtime NFL player at a position other than quarterback." Thomas has experience at tight end and was a highly sought after recruit at the position. The senior has flashed on occasion this season, but his placement on short to intermediate passes is bad. His best throws are vertical shots.

Source: NFL.com

BYU WR Cody Hoffman has received an invitation to participate in the 2014 Senior Bowl.
The senior receiver class isn't the deepest position this year, and Hoffman will likely land in the third day range. He came into the season with some top-50 buzz, but we think Hoffman lacks the talent to earn a top three-round selection.

Source: Cody Hoffman on Twitter

 

[EBF]

Terrible game for Mariota. Partially because he wasn't on the field much, but when he was out there he looked pretty bad. Had a bit of the deer-in-headlights look and seemed to freeze up under pressure a little bit. Makes you wonder how much of his early season performance was just the offense. Every Oregon QB has put up numbers in recent years and none of them were great NFL prospects.

 

[werdnoynek]

Terrible game for Mariota. Partially because he wasn't on the field much, but when he was out there he looked pretty bad. Had a bit of the deer-in-headlights look and seemed to freeze up under pressure a little bit. Makes you wonder how much of his early season performance was just the offense. Every Oregon QB has put up numbers in recent years and none of them were great NFL prospects.

Definitely agreed with the last bit... we'll see if he's another. Tonight the last TD looks pretty good, had a ton of zip on it, but that was the highlight of the night. Too little too late. I'd say this takes him out of the Heisman race and it's looking like another freshman is in the lead!

ETA: Not a huge fan. If I'm an NFL GM, give Teddy or Johnny in the 1st or more of a project like Mettenberger, Hundley, or Carr later.

 

[EBF]

Terrible game for Mariota. Partially because he wasn't on the field much, but when he was out there he looked pretty bad. Had a bit of the deer-in-headlights look and seemed to freeze up under pressure a little bit. Makes you wonder how much of his early season performance was just the offense. Every Oregon QB has put up numbers in recent years and none of them were great NFL prospects.

Definitely agreed with the last bit... we'll see if he's another. Tonight the last TD looks pretty good, had a ton of zip on it, but that was the highlight of the night. Too little too late. I'd say this takes him out of the Heisman race and it's looking like another freshman is in the lead!

ETA: Not a huge fan. If I'm an NFL GM, give Teddy or Johnny in the 1st or more of a project like Mettenberger, Hundley, or Carr later.

Yea, I'm with you there. What bothered me most about Mariota's performance apart from his demeanor and apparent lack of confidence was his inability to improvise. He only really started to get things going when Stanford's pass rush was stymied. When they put him under pressure he showed no ability to make something happen. One of the key things that has always stood out to me about Andrew Luck was his ability to turn negative plays into positives. He could pull a rabbit out of his hat. Roethlisberger is a lot like that too. Didn't see any of that from Mariota tonight. It's only one game, but it has me wondering if he's one of those guys who can only look good when everything around him is clicking. That's worrisome because in the NFL you're just rarely going to be comfortable as a QB. You need to be able to live in constant danger. That's part of what makes guys like Luck, Wilson, Kaep, and Newton so good.

 

[werdnoynek]

Terrible game for Mariota. Partially because he wasn't on the field much, but when he was out there he looked pretty bad. Had a bit of the deer-in-headlights look and seemed to freeze up under pressure a little bit. Makes you wonder how much of his early season performance was just the offense. Every Oregon QB has put up numbers in recent years and none of them were great NFL prospects.

Definitely agreed with the last bit... we'll see if he's another. Tonight the last TD looks pretty good, had a ton of zip on it, but that was the highlight of the night. Too little too late. I'd say this takes him out of the Heisman race and it's looking like another freshman is in the lead!

ETA: Not a huge fan. If I'm an NFL GM, give Teddy or Johnny in the 1st or more of a project like Mettenberger, Hundley, or Carr later.

Yea, I'm with you there. What bothered me most about Mariota's performance apart from his demeanor and apparent lack of confidence was his inability to improvise. He only really started to get things going when Stanford's pass rush was stymied. When they put him under pressure he showed no ability to make something happen. One of the key things that has always stood out to me about Andrew Luck was his ability to turn negative plays into positives. He could pull a rabbit out of his hat. Roethlisberger is a lot like that too. Didn't see any of that from Mariota tonight. It's only one game, but it has me wondering if he's one of those guys who can only look good when everything around him is clicking. That's worrisome because in the NFL you're just rarely going to be comfortable as a QB. You need to be able to live in constant danger. That's part of what makes guys like Luck, Wilson, Kaep, and Newton so good.

Yep... I posted somewhere on here while discussing his Heisman run that he's not the game changer Jameis or Johnny are and he seems to be a product of the system and that running attack. We'll see though, I think you may be onto something with him sticking around for another year.

Just saw on twitter:

Rob Moseley‏@DuckFootballhttps://twitter.com/DuckFootball
Marcus Mariota just emerged from the locker room, saw his dad and broke down. Exact same scene as Joey Harrington after 2000 Civil War.

Not saying he's weak but you'd think a leader would hold his #### together and be hungry for redemption.

 

[EBF]

He honestly looked shell-shocked for most of the game. Not just his play, but his facial expression.

I like those QBs like Luck or Manziel who look like they're never worried. They don't seem to even process the pressure and that allows them to just keep playing their game regardless of the situation. I have not seen as much of Teddy this year as I should have, but I know last year against Florida he didn't look awed by the moment at all. I think that mental fortitude is absolutely essential in a QB. Otherwise you get a Carson Palmer or Kyle Boller who can only dominate under perfect conditions.

 

[Rodeojones]

Terrible game for Mariota. Partially because he wasn't on the field much, but when he was out there he looked pretty bad. Had a bit of the deer-in-headlights look and seemed to freeze up under pressure a little bit. Makes you wonder how much of his early season performance was just the offense. Every Oregon QB has put up numbers in recent years and none of them were great NFL prospects.

Definitely agreed with the last bit... we'll see if he's another. Tonight the last TD looks pretty good, had a ton of zip on it, but that was the highlight of the night. Too little too late. I'd say this takes him out of the Heisman race and it's looking like another freshman is in the lead!

ETA: Not a huge fan. If I'm an NFL GM, give Teddy or Johnny in the 1st or more of a project like Mettenberger, Hundley, or Carr later.

Yea, I'm with you there. What bothered me most about Mariota's performance apart from his demeanor and apparent lack of confidence was his inability to improvise. He only really started to get things going when Stanford's pass rush was stymied. When they put him under pressure he showed no ability to make something happen. One of the key things that has always stood out to me about Andrew Luck was his ability to turn negative plays into positives. He could pull a rabbit out of his hat. Roethlisberger is a lot like that too. Didn't see any of that from Mariota tonight. It's only one game, but it has me wondering if he's one of those guys who can only look good when everything around him is clicking. That's worrisome because in the NFL you're just rarely going to be comfortable as a QB. You need to be able to live in constant danger. That's part of what makes guys like Luck, Wilson, Kaep, and Newton so good.

There was a report before the game started that Mariotta was playing with an MCL sprain. He clearly was not the same player as we have seen all season and an MCL sprain would explain his lack of mobility.

Josh Norris ‏@JoshNorris


RT @Collin_Harmon: Source with knowledge of situation tells me Marcus Mariota has a partial sprain of his MCL #GoDucks

 

[BigTex]

One thing is for sure with the match-ups this weekend there will be a lot of unanswered questions answered. High caliber draft picks going against some REAL competition.

Giddy Up,

Tex

Looks like two got answered last night.

 

[BigTex]

If you want some 2014 rankings I've posted some basic stuff in this thread. Right now I've got the first tier as:

WR Marqise Lee

WR Sammy Watkins

RB Lache Seastrunk

WR Allen Robinson

TE Eric Ebron

RB Melvin Gordon

No strong opinion on Watkins vs. Lee yet. Lee is more the type of athlete that I prefer, but Watkins might be the more explosive and dynamic player in the NFL. If I had to make the 1.01 pick today I could see myself taking any of my top 3 guys. No firm preference there yet.

Second tier would be:

RB Jeremy Hill

RB Bishop Sankey

WR Odell Beckham

WR Donte Moncrief

WR Mike Evans

QB Teddy Bridgewater

QB Marcus Mariota

I automatically bump QBs down a tier because they're not very valuable outside of 2QB, superflex, or other formats where they score a lot. Not necessarily a huge Sankey fan, but I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt right now. I think the combine is really important for players like him who put up great stats, but don't obviously have freak athletic qualities. With good numbers he will start to look more like Doug Martin. With bad numbers he will look more like Montee Ball.

Third tier would look something like:

RB Devonta Freeman

RB Michael Dyer

RB Carlos Hyde

RB KaDeem Carey

RB Branden Oliver

WR Davante Adams

WR Brandin Cooks

WR Jordan Matthews

WR Antwan Goodley

WR Jarvis Landry

WR Paul Richardson

WR Rashad Greene

TE Jace Amaro

TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins

QB Johnny Manziel

I could list a lot more names as candidates for the third tier and there are some unlisted players who have a chance to be high picks, but these are a lot of the key names. The combine looms as a huge data point and I'm sure there will be some movement based on how these players test and how they look in positional drills.

Also there isn't necessarily a lot of differentiation between the second and third tier players and I'm not that informed on this QB class. I know people are down on Manziel for various reasons, but to me he's an interesting player who could end up being something like a better Jeff Garcia if he can rein in his rock star persona and his reckless playing style.

You have a HUGE gap between Eric Ebron and Jace Amaro, what is it about Jace that he is so low on your list?

Tex

I should probably have him in the second tier. I don't think he's as athletic as Ebron though. Not as agile or good at route running.

With the way teams are using TEs in the NFL right now, a pure receiving specialist like him could have a lot of value. He's tall and quick off the line. I just don't get the same wow factor with him as I do with Ebron.

Gotcha

 

[BigTex]

He honestly looked shell-shocked for most of the game. Not just his play, but his facial expression.

I like those QBs like Luck or Manziel who look like they're never worried. They don't seem to even process the pressure and that allows them to just keep playing their game regardless of the situation. I have not seen as much of Teddy this year as I should have, but I know last year against Florida he didn't look awed by the moment at all. I think that mental fortitude is absolutely essential in a QB. Otherwise you get a Carson Palmer or Kyle Boller who can only dominate under perfect conditions.

As much as I can't stand Manziel's attitude (personal) I'd draft him in a heart beat...........he's a baller.

 

[matttyl]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

 

[jurb26]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

IMO it's pretty level. I don't see elite talent at the top, but good depth. TE is the strongest position fantasy wise IMO. That's rather unexciting.

 

[matttyl]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

IMO it's pretty level. I don't see elite talent at the top, but good depth. TE is the strongest position fantasy wise IMO. That's rather unexciting.

Our trade deadline is next Thursday's kickoff. I'm potentially looking to trade two 1st round picks which I feel will be around #9 and #10 for a single pick I think will be either #3 or #4. Some years a move like that is justified (like in 2012 to move up to get one of the QBs), while other years you'd rather have the pair to get good value. Just seeing how this year is looking to shape up.

 

[Milkman]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

There are 3-4 1st round wr this year.

Watkins- top ten pick

Evans- top 15 pick

Lee- top 15 pick

Matthews- top 30 pick

Pretty decent.

 

[BlackMamba24]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

There are 3-4 1st round wr this year.

Watkins- top ten pick

Evans- top 15 pick

Lee- top 15 pick

Matthews- top 30 pick

Pretty decent.

I also like Beckham Jr, Cooks,Robinson, Landry, Moncrief. I'm sure I'm missing some other WRs and havent even named the QBs/RBs/TEs

Some of those guys will be 2nd round picks in rookie fantasy drafts, but I would be happy with some of those guys as well.

I think there will be some good value in the 2nd round.

 

[matttyl]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

There are 3-4 1st round wr this year.

Watkins- top ten pick

Evans- top 15 pick

Lee- top 15 pick

Matthews- top 30 pick

Pretty decent.

I also like Beckham Jr, Cooks,Robinson, Landry, Moncrief. I'm sure I'm missing some other WRs and havent even named the QBs/RBs/TEs

Some of those guys will be 2nd round picks in rookie fantasy drafts, but I would be happy with some of those guys as well.

I think there will be some good value in the 2nd round.

But no WRs coming out with the Julio Jones or AJ Green type of hype? So this class will be a lot like last year's with some good value at the top, but not a lot of true studs?

 

[wiscstlatlmia]

Maybe an odd question for this early, but how would you value the top 20 rookie picks in 2014? Will it be "top heavy" like 2012 was, or more level like this past year?

There are 3-4 1st round wr this year.

Watkins- top ten pick

Evans- top 15 pick

Lee- top 15 pick

Matthews- top 30 pick

Pretty decent.

I also like Beckham Jr, Cooks,Robinson, Landry, Moncrief. I'm sure I'm missing some other WRs and havent even named the QBs/RBs/TEs

Some of those guys will be 2nd round picks in rookie fantasy drafts, but I would be happy with some of those guys as well.

I think there will be some good value in the 2nd round.

But no WRs coming out with the Julio Jones or AJ Green type of hype? So this class will be a lot like last year's with some good value at the top, but not a lot of true studs?

much better than last years

 

[EBF]

Some talented draft-eligible underclassmen (for next year) who I don't see declaring (in the order that I like them):

• Jay Ajayi**
• Tre Madden**
• Karlos Williams*
• Dominique Brown*
• Michael Dyer*
• Corey Grant*
• Jordon James*
• Treyvon Green*
• Jerome Smith*

Did not travel with the team for tonight's game against UConn. Not believed to be an injury issue. Early word from Louisville fans is that he stayed behind to deal with a "situation." People are interpreting that as an academic issue, but no official word yet.

A strange season for Dyer in what's been a very strange career.

 

[jurb26]

Some early rankings on my end.

QB

Teddy Bridgewater, Louis.

Derek Carr, Fresno St.

Tajh Boyd, Clem.

Johnny Manziel, TAM

Brett Hundley, UCLA

Marcus Mariota, Oregon

Stephen Morris, Mia.

Zach Mettenberger, LSU

Aaron Murray, UGA

Kevin Hogan, Stan

RB

Launched Seastrunk, Baylor

Bishop Sankey, Wash.

Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin

Ka'Deem Carey, Arz.

Devonta Freeman, FSU

Jeremy Hill, LSU

Charles Sims, WVU

Marion Grace, Arz St.

Tre Mason, Auburn

Andre Williams, BC

De'Anthony Thomas, Oregon

Raijun Neal, Tenn

LaDarius Perkins, Miss St.

Carlos Hyde, OSU

Ben Malena, TAM

Damien Williams, Oklahoma

WR

Sammy Watkins, Clem.

Marquise Lee, USC

Jaelen Strong, Arz St.

Mike Evans, TAM

Jarvis Landry, LSU

Kelvin Benjamin, FSU

Jordan Mathews, Vandy

Paul Richardson, Colorado

Brandon Coleman, Rutgers

Odell Beckham, LSU

Allen Robinson, PSU

Brandin Cooks, Oregon St.

Dontre Moncrief, Ole Miss

Cody Hoffman, BYU

Malcom Mitchell, UGA

Jaed Abbrederis, Wisconsin

TE

Eric Ebron, UNC

Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Wash

Xavier Grimble, USC

Jace Amaro, Texas Tech

CJ Fiedorowicz, Wisconsin

 

[Penguin]

Fresno State WR Josh Harper had a huge game tonight., 17 receptions, 253 yards and 2 TD's.

Harper followed this up with a 9 reception, 159 yard game tonight

 

[EBF]

James White kind of outshined Gordon tonight. Seems like he's been around forever. He burst onto the scene as a true freshman and since then has just sort of hung around quietly putting up solid stats in Wisconsin's perennial RBBC. He has always had really good quickness and cutting ability.

 

[Xue]

James White kind of outshined Gordon tonight. Seems like he's been around forever. He burst onto the scene as a true freshman and since then has just sort of hung around quietly putting up solid stats in Wisconsin's perennial RBBC. He has always had really good quickness and cutting ability.

He's more talented than Ball. Very underrated. Don't see how he's any different or less talented than Ka'Deem Carey. If I'm an NFL team, I'd rather have White in the 4th than Carey in the 2nd. Heck, some mocks have Carey at the end of the 1st, which is absurd.

Also a very good pass blocker for a "small" RB. That's the #1 reason why the much more talented Gordon has to "share" carries.

 

[EBF]

He's got a little bit of Gio Bernard to his game as a really compact, efficient runner.

Oddly enough, they went to the same high school and were probably teammates at one point.

 

[JackReacher]

He's got a little bit of Gio Bernard to his game as a really compact, efficient runner.

Oddly enough, they went to the same high school and were probably teammates at one point.

Aquinas turns out so many pro prospects. Factory

 

[Gottabesweet]

Seems like a down year to have multiple picks in this draft. Is this class going to be like last years? Aside from Gio, and Bell everyone has disappointed or not had an opportunity yet.

 

[cusefan115]

Seems like a down year to have multiple picks in this draft. Is this class going to be like last years? Aside from Gio, and Bell everyone has disappointed or not had an opportunity yet.

Keenan Allen and Eddie Lacey both look good too.

 

[MAC_32]

Seems like a down year to have multiple picks in this draft. Is this class going to be like last years? Aside from Gio, and Bell everyone has disappointed or not had an opportunity yet.

i have five first round picks. I'm excited. I plan to get a rb, two wr, qb, and trade the last one for a 2015 #1

 

[Gottabesweet]

Seems like a down year to have multiple picks in this draft. Is this class going to be like last years? Aside from Gio, and Bell everyone has disappointed or not had an opportunity yet.

Keenan Allen and Eddie Lacey both look good too.

True, I guess no clear cut 2014 guys. But you see posts of people excited for 2015 guys.

I also have 4 firsts (3 should be top 6 picks)

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Prior to Texas Tech's final home game of the season, junior TE Jace Amaro suggested it might be his last at the school.
"If you have no other reason to go out to this game, come for our Seniors. Who knows, it might be my last game at the Jones too," Amaro tweeted. This goes against what the tight end tweeted a few weeks ago, but we aren't surprised. He and Eric Ebron are the top two tight ends in this class, according to our own Josh Norris. "I know my idea is to stay here all four years," Amaro said after the game. "That's the plan right now, and we'll just see what happens at the end of this season."

Source: Jace Amaro on Twitter

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: Stanford's Hogan, Yankey, Skov star vs. Oregon

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: Vols dominated, but Rajion Neal flashes NFL traits

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: Alabama's McCarron outduels LSU's Mettenberger

 

[Faust]

What we learned from Week 11 in college football

 

[Xue]

He's got a little bit of Gio Bernard to his game as a really compact, efficient runner.

Oddly enough, they went to the same high school and were probably teammates at one point.

Aquinas turns out so many pro prospects. Factory

Yea, Rashad Greene went there. too.

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft Prospects: Top-32

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Charles Davis believes USC junior WR Marqise Lee can be scary good.
"...There is no doubt that he's everything you want in a wide receiver, even at 85 percent, which is where he's at right now," Davis writes. "At 100 percent health, when he's full speed, he's as good as there is in college football." Lee has dealt with a sprained left knee for most of the season and has not helped his cause with a few drops, but he remains a good prospect. We don't consider him to be at the top with Sammy Watkins, since Lee lacks the same explosion as the Clemson targets.

Source: NFL.com

 

[werdnoynek]

James White kind of outshined Gordon tonight. Seems like he's been around forever. He burst onto the scene as a true freshman and since then has just sort of hung around quietly putting up solid stats in Wisconsin's perennial RBBC. He has always had really good quickness and cutting ability.

I was going to come in here and say this. He looked like the old James White on Saturday... He's been the forgotten man and outplayed by Gordon for most of the year. He could make a team very happy in the later rounds.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah writes NFL scouts are split on Alabama senior QB A.J. McCarron.
"He doesn't have a huge arm, but he makes up for it with excellent timing, touch and decision-making," Jeremiah notes. "Scouts around the NFL are split on McCarron, but he has compiled a very impressive college résumé." The term "winner" will be thrown around a lot during the draft process, but how that quarterback helps his team win, rather than just the result, is what matters.

Source: NFL.com

 

[Faust]

Draft Buzz: Underclassmen

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Arizona State head coach Todd Graham said Oregon State junior Brandin Cooks is the best WR he has seen on film in the Pac-12.
If Graham includes his tenure at Arizona State, not just this season, that means Cooks beats the likes of USC's Marqise Lee, Robert Woods, Colorado's Paul Richardson, Oregon State's Markus Wheaton, and Cal's Keenan Allen. We can't disagree very much, as Cooks consistently separates form the slot or outside and doesn't mind showing off his catch radius.

Source: Doug Haller on Twitter

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Draft insider Tony Pauline ranks Baylor junior Lache Seastrunk as the top RB prospect in the 2014 class.
Seastrunk is a "strong, downhill ball carrier with a terrific burst," Pauline writes. "Sees the field, quickly gets through the hole then beats defenders into the open field. Effectively uses blocks, breaks tackles and has the talents necessary to be a feature runner in the NFL." We have been really impressed with Seastrunk this season, especially his improved vision in traffic to find open lanes. We rank Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon over Seastrunk, but Pauline has the Badger at No. 5.

Source: TFY Draft Insider

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft Week 11 Stock Report: Carr continues to help himself

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft top-5 rankings by position - Offense


By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

November 11, 2013 8:26 pm ET

Excerpt:

The 2014 NFL Draft is officially less than six months away, but as we inch closer, the rankings at each position are starting to become clearer.

Below are my own personal top-five rankings at each position for the 2014 draft class, broken up into three categories: seniors, draft-eligible underclassmen and non-eligible underclassmen. Of course these rankings will be fluid between now and early May, but less than 180 days out, this is how I view the top prospects at each position.

QUARTERBACKSSENIORS

1. Derek Carr, Fresno State (6-3, 215, 4.78)
2. Zach Mettenberger, LSU (6-5, 235, 5.18)
3. Tajh Boyd, Clemson (6-1, 225, 4.64)
4. Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois (6-2, 222, 4.78)
5. Aaron Murray, Georgia (6-1, 208, 4.83)

DRAFT-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville (6-3, 205, 4.65)
2. Marcus Mariota, Oregon (6-4, 212, 4.52)
3. Brett Hundley, UCLA (6-3, 227, 4.68)
4. Brett Smith, Wyoming (6-2, 208, 4.83)
5. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M (6-0, 210, 4.45)

NON-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Jameis Winston, Florida State (6-4, 230, 4.61)
2. Christian Hackenberg, Penn State (6-4, 220, 4.87)
3. Wes Lunt, Illinois (6-5, 215, 4.71)
4. Jared Goff, California (6-4, 205, 4.88)
5. John O'Korn, Houston (6-3, 205, 4.83)

RUNNING BACKSSENIORS

1. Charles Sims, West Virginia (6-0, 213, 4.54)
2. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State (6-0, 235, 4.62)
3. Andre Williams, Boston College (6-0, 227, 4.59)
4. Silas Redd, USC (5-9, 200, 4.53)
5. Antonio Andrews, Western Kentucky (5-11, 212, 4.59)

DRAFT-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin (6-1, 207, 4.54)
2. Ka'Deem Carey, Arizona (5-10, 207, 4.53)
3. Lache Seastrunk, Baylor (5-9, 210, 4.45)
4. Devonta Freeman, Florida State (5-8, 203, 4.52)
5. Bishop Sankey, Washington (5-10, 203, 4.49)

NON-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Todd Gurley, Georgia (6-1, 232, 4.54)
2. TJ Yeldon, Alabama (6-1, 218, 4.46)
3. Mike Davis, South Carolina (5-9, 215, 4.52)
4. Duke Johnson, Miami (Fla.) (5-9, 196, 4.42)
5. Trey Williams, Texas A&M (5-8, 195, 4.46)

FULLBACKS/H-BACKSSENIORS

1. Trey Millard, Oklahoma (6-2, 253, 4.64)
2. JC Copeland, LSU (6-0, 270, 4.84)
3. Jay Prosch, Auburn (6-0, 258, 4.67)
4. Ryan Hewitt, Stanford (6-4, 246, 4.86)
5. Jake Sinkovec, Boston College (6-3, 244, 4.87)

DRAFT-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Gerald Christian, Louisville (6-3, 242, 4.78)
2. Jalston Fowler, Alabama (6-1, 250, 4.79)
3. Hunter Joyer, Florida (5-11, 240, 4.67)
4. Tyler Cierski, Maryland (5-11, 260, 4.74)
5. Zach Zwinak, Penn State (5-11, 260, 4.74)

NON-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Derrick Henry, Alabama (6-3, 243, 4.73)
2. Quayvon Hicks, Georgia (6-2, 255, 4.75)
3. Glenn Gronkowski, Kansas State (6-3, 234, 4.74)
4. James Conner, Pittsburgh (6-2, 230, 4.86)
5. Prescott Line, SMU (6-0, 233, 4.89)

WIDE RECEIVERSSENIORS

1. Jordan Matthews, Vanderbilt (6-3, 205, 4.55)
2. Devin Street, Pittsburgh (6-1, 190, 4.52)
3. Jalen Saunders, Oklahoma (5-9, 157, 4.49)
4. Jared Abbrederis, Wisconsin (6-1, 190, 4.52)
5. TJ Jones, Notre Dame (6-0, 195, 4.54)

DRAFT-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Sammy Watkins, Clemson (6-1, 205, 4.47)
2. Mike Evans, Texas A&M (6-5, 225, 4.58)
3. Allen Robinson, Penn State (6-3, 210, 4.54)
4. Brandin Cooks, Oregon State (5-10, 186, 4.52)
5. Marqise Lee, USC (6-0, 195, 4.49)

NON-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Laquon Treadwell, Mississippi (6-3, 215, 4.54)
2. Amari Cooper, Alabama (6-1, 205, 4.56)
3. Nelson Agholor, USC (6-0, 185, 4.53)
4. Stefon Diggs, Maryland (6-0, 195, 4.48)
5. Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri (6-5, 225, 4.49)

TIGHT ENDSSENIORS

1. CJ Fiedorowicz, Iowa (6-6, 265, 4.79)
2. Arthur Lynch, Georgia (6-5, 254, 4.82)
3. Gabe Holmes, Purdue (6-5, 243, 4.78)
4. Marcel Jensen, Fresno State (6-5, 258, 4.82)
5. Rob Blanchflower, Massachusetts (6-4, 254, 4.82)

DRAFT-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech (6-5, 260, 4.67)
2. Eric Ebron, North Carolina (6-4, 245, 4.67)
3. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington (6-6, 276, 4.75)
4. Troy Niklas, Notre Dame (6-6, 270, 4.89)
5. Nick O'Leary, Florida State (6-3, 248, 4.84)

NON-ELIGIBLE UNDERCLASSMEN

1. OJ Howard, Alabama (6-5, 238, 4.59)
2. Devin Funchess, Michigan (6-5, 235, 4.71)
3. Johnny Mundt, Oregon (6-4, 232, 4.78)
4. Luke Kaumatule, Stanford (6-6, 267, 4.94)
5. Pharaoh Brown, Oregon (6-5, 241, 4.74)

 

[EBF]

Such a DEEP receiver class coming up. Beckham and Moncrief don't even make his top 5 draft-eligible underclassmen.

Moncrief reminds me of a better Terrance Williams. Has a similar running style. More explosive. Not the prettiest sideways mover, but if you get him going in a straight line he's tough to stop. Good route runner. Gets off the line really fast. Gliding speed and can bounce off bad tackles because of his size.

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=9647870

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=9851206

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=9852373

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=9778583

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=9951214

He's raw and he drops passes. Also doesn't come across as the most focused or bright guy in interviews. I think some teams are going to be excited about his upside though. Very interesting project who has a chance to be a better pro than collegiate if he can polish the edges.

 

[Faust]

McCarron leads list of Week 11 risers; Mariota among those slipping

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft Big Board

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Ole Miss junior WR Dontre Moncrief will enter the 2014 NFL Draft, according to draft insider Tony Pauline.

Pauline cites multiple sources that have told him as much. "Moncrief himself thinks he is going to rather early... I think he is more of a second day guy," Pauline said on his podcast. The non-seniors will really bring a lot of talent to this position during the draft process. It hasn't been a great year form Moncrief production-wise, but his talent did not disappear into thin air.


Source: TFY Draft Insider