[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (1 Viewer)

[Xue]

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

Pauline also says Davante Adams might declare.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Draft insider Tony Pauline ranks Texas A&M redshirt sophomore Mike Evans as his top draft-eligible WR.

"Large, game impacting receiver that physically beats defenders in the middle of the field or outraces opponents down the flanks," Pauline writes. "Has all the necessary talents to be a big time number one wide out in the NFL." We worry Evans might be unfairly dropped during the process because of a potentially slower forty time, but his savvy tendency to work back towards the quarterback, win at the catch point, and pick up yards after the catch is excellent.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

CBS Sports' Dane Brugler would choose Georgia senior QB Aaron Murray over Alabama senior QB A.J. McCarron.

Brugler made the statement in response to Mel Kiper noting Murray is likely a fourth- to sixth-round prospect. The Georgia passer started the season on a high note, handling pressure and firing after being forced off his spot, but his play has declined with the loss of multiple offensive weapons.


Source: Dane Brugler on Twitter

 

[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

Pauline also says Davante Adams might declare.

Rotoworld update:

Ole Miss junior WR Donte Moncrief suggested head coach Hugh Freeze is the key to whether or not he chooses to enter the 2014 NFL Draft.

"It's just whatever coach Freeze thinks is best, I could come back or leave. Whatever he says, I'm going to go with it," Moncrief said. Draft insider Tony Pauline has gone on record saying Moncrief will enter the draft. The junior is an impressive player, but his production has dipped this season.


Source: Rivals

 

[Xue]

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-BACKS

SENIORS

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)

Marquez North should be subbed in for Green-Beckham.

Kaumatule isn't even at TE anymore.

 

[EBF]

Starting to lean towards a top 2 of Seastrunk and Watkins with Lee and Robinson battling for the next two slots. I think I like Lache at #1 just because he seems like the more bulletproof prospect. Excellent build, mobility, explosiveness, and production. He could be a bit more powerful, but he's heavy for his height and with the direction today's NFL is heading (a premium on speed and versatility) I think he has a chance to be extremely productive. He's probably a top 3-5 overall dynasty RB out of the box for me and a good player to target if you're looking to shift a proven star for a younger alternative.

Watkins doesn't quite have the body type or playing style that I usually prefer in a WR, but he looks like the most electric receiver in the draft. Decent height and strength. Can pluck the ball away from his body. A bit straight-line in his movement (not as agile as Lee), but effective after the catch despite that because of his speed/acceleration. The latter is probably his hallmark trait. I'm not sure that he has elite top speed like a Ted Ginn or CJ Spiller, but to me it looks like he has elite speed over the first 20 yards or so. Comes out of the blocks incredibly fast and just eats up cushion in an instant.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks calls Clemson junior WR Sammy Watkins "one of the best 'catch and run' playmakers I've seen in the college game."
"Although his game and production took a dip a season ago, it is apparent that Watkins has regained his spectacular form as a junior," Brooks wrote. "He has been sensational as an all-around playmaker on the perimeter and has displayed noticeable improvement as a route runner." Watkins has collected 14 100-yard games and scored 24 touchdowns in 33 career games. "Factoring in his renewed concentration and focus, Watkins will captivate the imagination of coaches and scouts looking for a Torrey Smith-like playmaker to add to the line-up," Brooks wrote. Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney said last month he'd be surprised if Watkins returned for his senior season. We'd be shocked.

Source: NFL.com

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks believes Alabama senior QB A.J. McCarron will be selected in the first-round.
"I love A.J. McCarron. I think A.J. McCarron is what everyone wants on a winning team," Brooks said. "We've seen him in big games against LSU, make throws; 19 touchdowns this year and 13 have come against the blitz... I think NFL evaluators as they get closer to the draft, you'll see A.J. McCarron rise up and he will be a first-round pick." We agree that certain coaches will likely praise McCarron's lack of mistakes, but we doubt he ends up in the first-round.

Source: NFL.com

 

[Milkman]

Starting to lean towards a top 2 of Seastrunk and Watkins with Lee and Robinson battling for the next two slots. I think I like Lache at #1 just because he seems like the more bulletproof prospect. Excellent build, mobility, explosiveness, and production. He could be a bit more powerful, but he's heavy for his height and with the direction today's NFL is heading (a premium on speed and versatility) I think he has a chance to be extremely productive. He's probably a top 3-5 overall dynasty RB out of the box for me and a good player to target if you're looking to shift a proven star for a younger alternative.

Watkins doesn't quite have the body type or playing style that I usually prefer in a WR, but he looks like the most electric receiver in the draft. Decent height and strength. Can pluck the ball away from his body. A bit straight-line in his movement (not as agile as Lee), but effective after the catch despite that because of his speed/acceleration. The latter is probably his hallmark trait. I'm not sure that he has elite top speed like a Ted Ginn or CJ Spiller, but to me it looks like he has elite speed over the first 20 yards or so. Comes out of the blocks incredibly fast and just eats up cushion in an instant.

Watkins looks awesome but if Lee gets drafted by a team like Detroit or New England I would still probably take him ahead of Watkins. Especially if Watkins ends up with the Raiders.

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks believes Alabama senior QB A.J. McCarron will be selected in the first-round.
"I love A.J. McCarron. I think A.J. McCarron is what everyone wants on a winning team," Brooks said. "We've seen him in big games against LSU, make throws; 19 touchdowns this year and 13 have come against the blitz... I think NFL evaluators as they get closer to the draft, you'll see A.J. McCarron rise up and he will be a first-round pick." We agree that certain coaches will likely praise McCarron's lack of mistakes, but we doubt he ends up in the first-round.

Source: NFL.com

After watching how Ingram and TRich have performed at the NFL level I am being to suspect Bama is so stack with talent up front that it masks the flaws of the backfield players. My hunch is that when these same players get into the NFL, where the playing field is more level, their flaws are exposed. So I am leery that of McCarron's game.

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Got a peek at Mike Evans and Eric Ebron, and really liked what I saw. It will be interesting to see how Evans times in the 40. I is a big body WR that makes the tough catch. Ebron is a freak that could be very special at TE.

 

[Faust]

Big Board: Skov, Borland lead resurgence of inside LBs


by Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

Nov. 14, 2013 6:23 PM ET

With spread offenses continuing to have an impact on how NFL teams construct their defenses, traditional inside linebackers are quickly becoming a unique endangered species -- a group with too much room to roam.

Many teams have long resisted drafting inside linebackers in the first round. Only linebackers with elite athleticism -- or pass-rush ability -- generally earn a spot among the top 32.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft, however. 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.

After dominating performances were turned in last week by Stanford's Shayne Skov (nine tackles, two tackles for loss, two forced fumbles) and Wisconsin's Chris Borland (13 tackles, 2½ for loss, two sacks vs. BYU), each make their debuts on my list.

1. DE Jadeveon Clowney*, South Carolina (6-6, 268, 4.65): 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 the game-changing play on each snap of the ball. He produced his best game of 2013 in a highly anticipated rematch with Tennessee left tackle Antonio Richardson on Oct. 19.

2. QB Teddy Bridgewater*, Louisville (6-3, 220, 4.65): 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 (71.4 percent completion rate with 24 touchdowns against just three interceptions) comes out of a pro-style offenses that forces him to make tough throws. Bridgewater's slight frame and level of competition are concerns.

3. OLB Anthony Barr, UCLA (6-4, 238, 4.73): A running back until last season, Barr exploded in 2012 to the tune of 21.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks. He has had some flashy moments again this year but like Clowney, Barr hasn't been as good in 2013 as he was a year ago, struggling especially against Stanford and Arizona in recent weeks. Scouts rave about his work ethic and Barr is a terrific pass rusher, capable of beating tackles off the edge with speed and power.

4. QB Marcus Mariota*, Oregon (6-3, 214, 4.52): Due to a sprained knee, Mariota was rendered relatively immobile against a physical and sound-tackling Stanford defense in a Nov. 7 loss. Without his legs keeping defenders off-balance, Mariota struggled a bit with his accuracy and awareness (fumbling twice). The elite traits are plain to see but it wouldn't be a surprise to see the redshirt sophomore elect to return to Eugene for at least another year of development before making the NFL jump.

5. OT Jake Matthews, Texas A&M (6-5, 305, 5.14): Any question about Matthews' ability to hold up at left tackle may have been answered with a dominating performances against Arkansas' speedy Chris Smith and Mississippi's powerful Robert Nkemdiche this season. The son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, Jake proves the cliché true -- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

6. WR Sammy Watkins*, Clemson (6-1, 200, 4.49): Watkins was one of the few Clemson Tigers who appeared unfazed by Florida State's speed. 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. OT Cameron Erving*, Florida State (6-5, 310, 5.26): 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 and could enjoy a "quiet" ride into the top 10 of the 2014 draft, just as former Texas A&M left tackle Luke Joeckel did a year while blocking for Heisman winner Johnny Manziel.

8. OLB C.J. Mosley, Alabama (6-2, 232, 4.56): 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. Mosley lacks the bulk scouts want in a pass rusher but his awareness in coverage is special.

9. OLB Khalil Mack, Buffalo (6-3, 248, 4.66): With an eye-popping 56 tackles for loss, 18 sacks and 11 forced fumbles already on his resume entering the 2013 season, rest assured that scouts knew Mack well. The best player outside of BCS schools, he stepped up with dominating efforts against Ohio State and Connecticut this year to establish himself as a legitimate top 20 prospect.

10. WR Mike Evans*, Texas A&M (6-5, 225, 4.58): Like his famous quarterback Manziel, Evans is just a redshirt sophomore, but he could have quite the decision to make after the season if he continues to dominate the SEC. Deceptively fast and possessing great body control as well as timing, Evans is an exciting split end prospect who reminds scouts of Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Vincent Jackson.

11. OT Cyrus Kouandjio*, Alabama (6-5, 312, 5.12): Some questioned the wisdom of moving Barrett Jones from left tackle (where he had 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 Bowler Chris Samuels, the No. 3 overall pick out of Alabama in 2000.

12. QB Johnny Manziel*, Texas A&M (5-11, 210, 4.45): Scouts will poke holes in Manziel's grade after the season due to less-than-ideal size and the distraction he may prove to be off the field. However, it is impossible not to simply marvel at his magical ability on the field, including during his possible swan song at College Station, throwing for 446 yards and five touchdowns in a victory against Mississippi State. 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.

13. DL Stephon Tuitt*, Notre Dame (6-5, 303, 4.89): Offseason sports hernia surgery may have played a role in Tuitt weighing 20 pounds more this season than a year ago, and early on the extra weight seemed to be slowing him. He has played much better of late, however, and is simply too gifted to fall far on draft day should the junior elect to leave South Bend early.

14. TE Eric Ebron*, North Carolina (6-4, 245, 4.67): 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.

15. OT Taylor Lewan, Michigan (6-7, 310, 5.04): Possessing 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 upfront for Michigan, which has struggled with injuries and penalties.

16. DT Ra'Shede Hageman, Minnesota (6-6, 311, 4.95): 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.

17. OT Cedric Ogbuehi*, Texas A&M (6-5, 300, 5.15): 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 an undisclosed injury which sidelined him for two games (UTEP, Vanderbilt) may cause him to change that decision.

18. DE Trent Murphy, Stanford (6-6, 261, 4.85): 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 3.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, a blocked kick and a pass broken up against Oregon State on Oct. 26 earned Murphy my Top Prospect of Week Nine. Murphy projects best as a 4-3 defensive end.

19. WR Marqise Lee*, Southern Cal (6-0, 195, 4.51): 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 Biletnikof campaign, Lee only has two in 2013. While his production is a concern, Lee's talent is obvious. If he falls out of the top 20, someone is going to get a steal.

20. TE Jace Amaro*, Texas Tech (6-5, 260): The NFL is looking for seam threats rather than extra blockers at tight end in today's game and there hasn't been a more impressive prospect in the country in 2013 in that role than Amaro. Scouts are beginning to mention the name Jimmy Graham when discussing the Red Raiders' junior, a comparison which could catapult Amaro into the top spot among all tight ends by May.

21. DT Louis Nix III*, Notre Dame (6-2, 345): Regarded as a potential top 10 prospect heading into the season, Nix has struggled this year. At least some of his struggles can be attributed to a knee injury, which Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly said would require surgery following the season. After resting his knee against Air Force and Navy, Nix returned against Pittsburgh on Nov. 9 and enjoyed his best game of the season.

22. OG Cyril Richardson, Baylor (6-5, 335, 5.27): A dominating drive blocker who projects best at guard but spent the entire 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. OC Travis Swanson, Arkansas (6-4, 318): If Richardson is the elite interior lineman of the 2014 senior class, Swanson ranks as a close second. Athletic, powerful and versatile (some view him as a potential guard convert), Swanson will continue former Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema's tradition of churning out quality NFL prospects along the offensive line.

24. OLB Ryan Shazier*, Ohio State (6-2, 226, 4.58): 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.

25. OLB Vic Beasley*, Clemson (6-3, 235, 4.55): 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 Clemson 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.

26. QB Derek Carr, Fresno State (6-3, 215): Carr's staggering production (69.5 completion percentage, 32 TDs, four interceptions) is certainly inflated by head coach Tim DeRuyter's QB-friendly spread attack but there is no denying Carr's talent, including his big-time arm. If Carr follows older brother David's footsteps and lights up Senior Bowl practices, he'll erase any doubt as to the identity of the top senior quarterback prospect in the country.

27. CB Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State (5-11, 197): The success of the Seattle Seahawks' long, physical press cornerbacks could push several into the first round, including Dennard -- an instinctive, tenacious defender who leads the top-rated Spartans defense.

28. OT Antonio Richardson*, Tennessee (6-6, 332, 5.16): Boasting an exciting combination of size, athleticism and power, "Tiny" looks like the second coming of former Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl LT Erik Williams. Richardson's physical talent is obvious but he has struggled with mental breakdowns this season, drawing numerous penalties.

29. CB Jason Verrett, TCU (5-10, 182, 4.49): 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 Six.

30. ILB Shayne Skov, Stanford (6-2, 245): I'll be the first to admit it, I'm a sucker for instinctive, physical inside linebackers and that is precisely what Skov has proven himself to be over his distinguished career. While Skov may lack elite straight-line speed, his diagnosis skills, power and ability to make big plays have stood out in each of Stanford's biggest games this season.

31. CB Justin Gilbert, 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 through nine games and has returned five kickoffs for touchdowns during his time in Stillwater.

32. DT Will Sutton, 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 23.5 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).

Just missed the cut:

OT Brandon Scherff*, Iowa
RB Bishop Sankey*, Washington
DT Dominique Easley, Florida
OLB Kyle Van Noy, BYU
WR Jordan Matthews, South Carolina
QB Zach Mettenberger, LSU
OG David Yankey, Stanford
DE Michael Sam, Missouri
DT Ego Ferguson*, LSU
ILB Chris Borland, Wisconsin

Rob Rang is a senior analyst for NFLDraftScout.com. He can be found on Twitter @RobRang.

 

[Onions]

See the following being discussed on Twitter a bit today, and was curious how most see it:

Should there be concern about RB (and their future fantasy production and value, especially in PPR) who rarely catch passes in college?

Guys discussed were Seastrunk, Gordon and Andre Williams.

ETA: Is it uncommon for RB, who rarely catch passes in college, to become productive receiving RB in NFL? Or is college receiving production usually a sign of same in NFL?

 

[ConnSKINS26]

I think there's definitely some validity to that.

I mean, anyone could have drafted a dominant team this year by bypassing the "stud" RB's early and stocking up on pass-catching RB's later (Sproles, Woodhead, Gio).

 

[EBF]

See the following being discussed on Twitter a bit today, and was curious how most see it:

Should there be concern about RB (and their future fantasy production and value, especially in PPR) who rarely catch passes in college?

Guys discussed were Seastrunk, Gordon and Andre Williams.

ETA: Is it uncommon for RB, who rarely catch passes in college, to become productive receiving RB in NFL? Or is college receiving production usually a sign of same in NFL?

I think it's a little bit of both. If a guy is great in space, his college team will usually make some effort to get him in the ball in those situations. On the other hand, just because his team might not throw him the ball much doesn't mean he doesn't have the ability to thrive if given a chance.

I would think Seastrunk could be a very good receiving threat if he has decent hands. He's really good in tight spaces. A bit like Gio Bernard and DeAngelo Williams in style and build. Probably more explosive than either. Really quick and elusive. Gordon is more about straight line speed. Not so great when he has to make somebody miss. Williams just seems like a two down power back (reminds me a bit of Alfred Morris and Robert Turbin -- although Turbin is actually a serviceable receiver).

 

[Xue]

See the following being discussed on Twitter a bit today, and was curious how most see it:

Should there be concern about RB (and their future fantasy production and value, especially in PPR) who rarely catch passes in college?

Guys discussed were Seastrunk, Gordon and Andre Williams.

ETA: Is it uncommon for RB, who rarely catch passes in college, to become productive receiving RB in NFL? Or is college receiving production usually a sign of same in NFL?

Receiving production can sometimes be a scheme/usage and/or pass protection issue.

Ray Rice only had 12 receptions his first two years in college and 25 his final season. Frank Gore had great receiving production before Harbaugh.

Ladainian Tomlinson had 43 receptions total in college. He averaged 56.7 receptions per season for his career.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

See the following being discussed on Twitter a bit today, and was curious how most see it:

Should there be concern about RB (and their future fantasy production and value, especially in PPR) who rarely catch passes in college?

Guys discussed were Seastrunk, Gordon and Andre Williams.

ETA: Is it uncommon for RB, who rarely catch passes in college, to become productive receiving RB in NFL? Or is college receiving production usually a sign of same in NFL?

I remember I looked into it statistically a couple years ago, no idea if I still have the data, but I remember it's definitely a good omen for a RB to be getting receptions in college. I doubt there's many RBs who put up 40+ receptions in an NFL season who didn't put up 15+ receptions in a college season. If a RB can demand 15-20+ receptions in a season in college where screens are generally pretty rare, I like their chances to handle receiving duties in the NFL, especially if they can get a yards per reception in the ~9.0+ range in that college season.

Looking at a guy like Michael Dyer, who has had 400+ NCAA carries and just 5 receptions, I think his chances of ever being a 3rd down back in the NFL are literally zero, for example.

In regard to Seastrunk, he looked pretty comfortable catching passes against Kansas last year (some highlights from that are in here at the beginning), but frankly I do find his lack of receptions to be concerning, whether it's primarily due to Baylor's scheme or not. Not that he can't be a good receiving back in the NFL, just that I'm not near as comfortable predicting he'll be successful at it as I'd like to be.

 

[EBF]

Well that game should put to rest talk of Kevin Hogan as a solid NFL prospect. The guy just doesn't have it upstairs. The only reason Stanford can win with him is because of his legs. He's good for 1-2 big throws per game, but in general he's a liability when it comes to actually throwing the ball. I doubt that will ever change. Stanford has been squeaking by because its defense is great, but honestly they've been a vastly inferior overall team since Luck left despite all the wins.

Ty Montgomery also had a howler tonight. A couple brutal drops, one of which would've been good for a 30-40 yard play. There's a pretty strong pattern with him. NFL caliber height/weight/speed without the elite innate receiving skills to match. Seems to overthink things and tighten up sometimes when the ball is near. I've described him as mechanical in the past and I think it's an apt description. He looks a lot like the second coming of Quincy Morgan. Whoever drafts him will have to be patient because he's more of an athlete playing WR than a natural WR. There's pretty much no way he declares though. Will most likely come back for his senior year and push for a draft slot in rounds 3-6 next year.

 

[aggs]

How did Lee look? Saw him catch a closely contested slant route late in the game. Was nice.

 

[Vincesanity]

Mike Evans won't run a good 40, fantasy guys will drop him and I'll be able to snag my top rated WR in every league. That's what I see happening come combine time.

I'm also much higher on Marion Grice than most, that's your PPR guy in this class, great attitude and can pass block.

 

[Vincesanity]

Todd Gurley with 10 rec today...wow

 

[EBF]

How did Lee look? Saw him catch a closely contested slant route late in the game. Was nice.

Finished with a decent stat line, but didn't dominate the game or anything like that. Stanford D is pretty good. Very good pass rush. They don't give QBs a lot of time to throw or a comfortable pocket. Kessler was able to move around and make some plays, but overall it was tough sledding.

Lee seems to be struggling with injuries. Came up very lame late in the game yet still made a clutch grab to put them in FG range. Don't think he's 100% right now.

 

[BoltzNBrew]

What is the strongest and deepest position out of QB,RB,WR,TE in this class?

Why didn't Seatrunk play last night?

 

[jurb26]

Todd Gurley with 10 rec today...wow

Yeah, that should put to rest the "he isn't a good pass catcher" nonsense.

 

[JFS171]

What is the strongest and deepest position out of QB,RB,WR,TE in this class?

Why didn't Seatrunk play last night?

I'm sure others have opinions here as well, but id say WR/TE are the deepest. Three good TEs off the top on Ebron, Amaro, and ASJ. WR conceivably could have three plus first rounders.

QB is deep but may not have a can't miss guy.

RB has potential but is thinner... Gordon may stay in school, most aren't sure of the athletic traits of Carey, Sankey, Grice, etc. Love Lache personally, but the RB class needs some guys ti emerge at the combine IMO.

Lache is dealing with a strained groin - that's why he didn't play.

 

[Faust]

What we learned from Week 12 in college football

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: USC's Lee, Baylor's Norwood breakout on big stage

 

[jeter23]

What is the strongest and deepest position out of QB,RB,WR,TE in this class?

Why didn't Seatrunk play last night?

I'm sure others have opinions here as well, but id say WR/TE are the deepest. Three good TEs off the top on Ebron, Amaro, and ASJ. WR conceivably could have three plus first rounders.

QB is deep but may not have a can't miss guy.

RB has potential but is thinner... Gordon may stay in school, most aren't sure of the athletic traits of Carey, Sankey, Grice, etc. Love Lache personally, but the RB class needs some guys ti emerge at the combine IMO.

Lache is dealing with a strained groin - that's why he didn't play.

Yeah, WR certainly the deepest and I'd say there will be 3 1st rounders minimum, maybe up to 5.

Also, not sure anyone is ever a can't miss, but Teddy Bridgewater is pretty close.

 

[JFS171]

What is the strongest and deepest position out of QB,RB,WR,TE in this class?

Why didn't Seatrunk play last night?

I'm sure others have opinions here as well, but id say WR/TE are the deepest. Three good TEs off the top on Ebron, Amaro, and ASJ. WR conceivably could have three plus first rounders.QB is deep but may not have a can't miss guy.

RB has potential but is thinner... Gordon may stay in school, most aren't sure of the athletic traits of Carey, Sankey, Grice, etc. Love Lache personally, but the RB class needs some guys ti emerge at the combine IMO.

Lache is dealing with a strained groin - that's why he didn't play.

Yeah, WR certainly the deepest and I'd say there will be 3 1st rounders minimum, maybe up to 5.Also, not sure anyone is ever a can't miss, but Teddy Bridgewater is pretty close.

Bridgewater is close but he's not a Luck type can't miss. Solid prospect of course. Wondering if the perceived depth at QB will actually pan out behind Teddy, or if it's a rather thin QB class...

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Saw this on Twitter and figured EBF would appreciate the "smoothness".

http://instagram.com/p/gx9kuuthQ6/#

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft Week 12 Stock Report: Learn the name Randy Gregory

 

[Faust]

’14 NFL Draft: Risers-Sliders Week 12

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft Big Board

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Draft insider Tony Pauline says there are no surprises relating to the top three QBs on teams' boards at this point in the process.

Pauline lists Oregon’s Marcus Mariota, Teddy Bridewater of Louisville and Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel as those three quarterbacks. Zach Mettenberger of LSU, Derek Carr from Fresno State and AJ McCarron of Alabama are then the next three names mentioned in some order. We doubt this lasts throughout the process, as teams focus on specific qualities and find "their guy" at the position.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Former Ohio State offensive lineman Andrew Moses praised senior RB Carlos Hyde's pass protection ability.

"Unlike most backs, Hyde is an effective and stout pass blocker," Moses writes. "On multiple occasions this year, Hyde alone has knocked the defense end on his back... With as many spread formations as Ohio State utilizes in Urban Meyer's offense, Hyde's pass blocking is an important element to the OSU air attack." This is a pivotal piece of running back evaluations in today's NFL, and will likely allow Hyde to play sooner than many of his peers.


Source: Cleveland.com

Clemson junior WR Sammy Watkins earned a comparison to Torrey Smith from NFL.com's Bucky Brooks.

"He has been sensational as an all-around playmaker on the perimeter and has displayed noticeable improvement as a route runner," Brooks writes. "Factoring in his renewed concentration and focus, Watkins will captivate the imagination of coaches and scouts..." We like the Torrey Smith comparison, but not in regards to the one trick pony Smith was coming out of Maryland. He is a more complete receiver now, and we also believe Watkins is a more dangerous after the catch.


Source: NFL.com

 

[EBF]

Another player trending upward after an injury-plagued 2012 season is Buffalo RB Branden Oliver. He started the season slowly then sat out a game against Stony Brook with minor injuries. In five games since returning he has 769 rushing yards on 141 carries (5.45 YPC). Right now I'd say he's probably a day 3 draft pick, but he will have a chance to move up the charts in the postseason.

249 rushing yards against Ohio on Tuesday night.

928 yards in his last five games.

Oliver at it again. 120 yards and 2 TDs at halftime tonight against lowly Miami (OH). That makes 7 straight 100+ yard rushing games.

Very curious to see what kind of value the NFL slaps on this kid because he really does remind me of Ray Rice at times. Really compact. Very clean and efficient cutter. Short, but yoked. Carrying a huge workload this season like Rice at Rutgers. Will he get a Senior Bowl invite? Shrine Game? The draft sites aren't very high on him right now. To me, he looks like a 5th-6th rounder at worst with the potential to go day 2 if teams fall in love with the film.

 

[BigTex]

Another player trending upward after an injury-plagued 2012 season is Buffalo RB Branden Oliver. He started the season slowly then sat out a game against Stony Brook with minor injuries. In five games since returning he has 769 rushing yards on 141 carries (5.45 YPC). Right now I'd say he's probably a day 3 draft pick, but he will have a chance to move up the charts in the postseason.

249 rushing yards against Ohio on Tuesday night.

928 yards in his last five games.

Oliver at it again. 120 yards and 2 TDs at halftime tonight against lowly Miami (OH). That makes 7 straight 100+ yard rushing games.

Very curious to see what kind of value the NFL slaps on this kid because he really does remind me of Ray Rice at times. Really compact. Very clean and efficient cutter. Short, but yoked. Carrying a huge workload this season like Rice at Rutgers. Will he get a Senior Bowl invite? Shrine Game? The draft sites aren't very high on him right now. To me, he looks like a 5th-6th rounder at worst with the potential to go day 2 if teams fall in love with the film.

I'm curious to know how many carries he's had over that time span.

ETA: After the Oct 26 post

 

[EBF]

Another player trending upward after an injury-plagued 2012 season is Buffalo RB Branden Oliver. He started the season slowly then sat out a game against Stony Brook with minor injuries. In five games since returning he has 769 rushing yards on 141 carries (5.45 YPC). Right now I'd say he's probably a day 3 draft pick, but he will have a chance to move up the charts in the postseason.

249 rushing yards against Ohio on Tuesday night.

928 yards in his last five games.

Oliver at it again. 120 yards and 2 TDs at halftime tonight against lowly Miami (OH). That makes 7 straight 100+ yard rushing games.

Very curious to see what kind of value the NFL slaps on this kid because he really does remind me of Ray Rice at times. Really compact. Very clean and efficient cutter. Short, but yoked. Carrying a huge workload this season like Rice at Rutgers. Will he get a Senior Bowl invite? Shrine Game? The draft sites aren't very high on him right now. To me, he looks like a 5th-6th rounder at worst with the potential to go day 2 if teams fall in love with the film.

I'm curious to know how many carries he's had over that time span.

ETA: After the Oct 26 post

A LOT. He's a true workhorse. They feed him the ball 25-30 times per game on average when he's healthy.

He's probably one of the best cutters I've seen in CFB over the last couple seasons. Has an almost Sproles/Rice like ability to pick his way through traffic and string together multiple moves. You can get a little taste of it on this video. The whole thing is fun to watch, but this run in particular was nasty. When they cut to the field level view you can just see how sick this kid's agility and lateral bounce are.

http://youtu.be/pZiAf_dhiNo?t=8m19s

Pretty silly stuff. Strong RBs with good burst and fluid cutting ability usually work pretty well in the NFL. This guy has all of those things.

 

[Faust]

Big Ten teams lack speed to compete outside conference

 

[Andrew74]

Another player trending upward after an injury-plagued 2012 season is Buffalo RB Branden Oliver. He started the season slowly then sat out a game against Stony Brook with minor injuries. In five games since returning he has 769 rushing yards on 141 carries (5.45 YPC). Right now I'd say he's probably a day 3 draft pick, but he will have a chance to move up the charts in the postseason.

249 rushing yards against Ohio on Tuesday night.

928 yards in his last five games.

Oliver at it again. 120 yards and 2 TDs at halftime tonight against lowly Miami (OH). That makes 7 straight 100+ yard rushing games.

Very curious to see what kind of value the NFL slaps on this kid because he really does remind me of Ray Rice at times. Really compact. Very clean and efficient cutter. Short, but yoked. Carrying a huge workload this season like Rice at Rutgers. Will he get a Senior Bowl invite? Shrine Game? The draft sites aren't very high on him right now. To me, he looks like a 5th-6th rounder at worst with the potential to go day 2 if teams fall in love with the film.

I'm curious to know how many carries he's had over that time span.

ETA: After the Oct 26 post

A LOT. He's a true workhorse. They feed him the ball 25-30 times per game on average when he's healthy.

He's probably one of the best cutters I've seen in CFB over the last couple seasons. Has an almost Sproles/Rice like ability to pick his way through traffic and string together multiple moves. You can get a little taste of it on this video. The whole thing is fun to watch, but this run in particular was nasty. When they cut to the field level view you can just see how sick this kid's agility and lateral bounce are.

http://youtu.be/pZiAf_dhiNo?t=8m19s

Pretty silly stuff. Strong RBs with good burst and fluid cutting ability usually work pretty well in the NFL. This guy has all of those things.

Looks good. But on the draw deep in his territory at the beginning - was it me or was the right side of the field completely empty, yet he cut back left right into a guy being blocked?

 

[JFS171]

Curious as to the weight you guys give age in the evaluation process?

For example, the top 4 WR prospects (roughly) are Watkins, Evans, Lee, Robinson. Watkins, Evans, and Robinson are all just 20 years old - born in the late summer to fall of 1993. Lee was born in November of 91, so while the other three are dominating at age 20, he's gonna turn 22 in a week.

Obviously Lee dominated at age 20 as well, but does it make a difference? What do you guys think?

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft: Norris' Top 32

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

LSU sophomore RB Jeremy Hill "will likely leave LSU for the NFL draft," according to beat writer to Jim Kleinpeter.

Hill is listed as a true sophomore by LSU, but he sat out the 2011 season after graduating from high school the previous spring. We, and others, have always considered Hill a two year player, so this is surprising news. He's a larger back with a smooth style, but we wish Hill would beat first contact more often.


Source: New Orleans Times-Picayune

Report: LSU Tigers RB Jeremy Hill likely to enter 2014 NFL Draft

 

[Time Kibitzer]

NFL Draft: Norris' Top 32

Brandin Cooks is getting a lot of love lately, and rightly so I suppose given his insane production, but there's something about his game that I just don't think it'll mesh all that well in the NFL. Granted I haven't watched him a tonne, but he seems to make a lot of big plays by winning jump balls, which I don't think he's going to be able to do nearly as consistently in the NFL as a 5'10 WR.

 

[EBF]

Curious as to the weight you guys give age in the evaluation process?

For example, the top 4 WR prospects (roughly) are Watkins, Evans, Lee, Robinson. Watkins, Evans, and Robinson are all just 20 years old - born in the late summer to fall of 1993. Lee was born in November of 91, so while the other three are dominating at age 20, he's gonna turn 22 in a week.

Obviously Lee dominated at age 20 as well, but does it make a difference? What do you guys think?

It would just be a tiebreaker for me.

And like you said, Lee was pretty dominant right away.

 

[EBF]

Another player trending upward after an injury-plagued 2012 season is Buffalo RB Branden Oliver. He started the season slowly then sat out a game against Stony Brook with minor injuries. In five games since returning he has 769 rushing yards on 141 carries (5.45 YPC). Right now I'd say he's probably a day 3 draft pick, but he will have a chance to move up the charts in the postseason.

249 rushing yards against Ohio on Tuesday night.

928 yards in his last five games.

Oliver at it again. 120 yards and 2 TDs at halftime tonight against lowly Miami (OH). That makes 7 straight 100+ yard rushing games.

Very curious to see what kind of value the NFL slaps on this kid because he really does remind me of Ray Rice at times. Really compact. Very clean and efficient cutter. Short, but yoked. Carrying a huge workload this season like Rice at Rutgers. Will he get a Senior Bowl invite? Shrine Game? The draft sites aren't very high on him right now. To me, he looks like a 5th-6th rounder at worst with the potential to go day 2 if teams fall in love with the film.

I'm curious to know how many carries he's had over that time span.

ETA: After the Oct 26 post

A LOT. He's a true workhorse. They feed him the ball 25-30 times per game on average when he's healthy.

He's probably one of the best cutters I've seen in CFB over the last couple seasons. Has an almost Sproles/Rice like ability to pick his way through traffic and string together multiple moves. You can get a little taste of it on this video. The whole thing is fun to watch, but this run in particular was nasty. When they cut to the field level view you can just see how sick this kid's agility and lateral bounce are.

http://youtu.be/pZiAf_dhiNo?t=8m19s

Pretty silly stuff. Strong RBs with good burst and fluid cutting ability usually work pretty well in the NFL. This guy has all of those things.

Looks good. But on the draw deep in his territory at the beginning - was it me or was the right side of the field completely empty, yet he cut back left right into a guy being blocked?

If it's the play around 1:17 I think maybe he sees the defender being pushed that way and figures he'll end up right in his path. And FWIW, he actually does manage to avoid that guy. It's the other players from the left side of the field that end up getting him.

 

[Faust]

USC's Lee, Ohio State's Hyde rising; USF's Lynch, U-Dub's Price falling

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Mock Drafts Updated: 11/19/13

 

[Faust]

Scout's Take: WVU's Charles Sims has Matt Forte-like talent

 

[Faust]

Colorado coach says WR Paul Richardson has NFL ability