[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (2 Viewers)

[Spike]

A tentative stab at some tiered RB rankings:

Lache Seastrunk

---------

Carlos Hyde

Andre Williams

---------

Jeremy Hill

Devonta Freeman

Bishop Sankey

KaDeem Carey

Sleepers/Flyers:

Ameer Abdullah

Branden Oliver

Tim Flanders

Isaiah Crowell

I'm trying to keep an open mind, but I think it's unlikely that one of the 3rd-4th tier guys will jump up into the top 3. Today I'd take Seastrunk as the top RB and feel pretty decent about it. Hyde strikes me as a really safe pick. Not a super dynamic guy and he doesn't make a lot of SportsCenter runs, but he just looks like the kind of durable workhorse you could grab out of the 2nd round, plug in right away, and get 250-300 carries of serviceable performance from immediately. Very sturdy build and fluid running style. Also shows some ability to catch the ball. Andre Williams is a different beast. Not every team is going to like him (because he's basically a two-down runner only), but the teams who covet that might REALLY like him because he has some "wow" qualities as a power runner. Hulking frame, extreme strength, and deceptive straight-line speed. Not a juker and not a good open field guy. Not very sudden. Has a very deliberate, but powerful running style. He doesn't really look like Jamal Lewis and he doesn't really run like him either, but if he hits that's the kind of impact he could make. A guy who racks up yards and breaks long runs because nobody wants to tackle him. I see more "wow" factor, but also more durability risk and more bust potential than with Hyde.

The third tier is guys who could go rounds 2-4 and potentially be serviceable starters right away. I think all of those guys are flawed enough that you can't really consider them elite prospects. It's not out of the question that I could move Carey or Hill up to the bottom of the second tier at some point though. Hill has a lot of character baggage and strikes me as the kind of guy who could look bad at the combine. That event will be especially important for him since he seems like a guy who could either really shine or really look bad in that environment (whereas you can pretty much bet that guys like Seastrunk and Williams will look the part). Never really been a big Carey fan, but at some point the production has to mean something. It can't all be by accident.

The sleepers/flyers are guys that I like to some degree, but who aren't really mocked high enough to be considered major contenders for the top few RB slots right now. They're all compelling in one way or another. Whether it be as a small school dominator (Flanders/Oliver), a fallen prep star with some upside (Crowell), or an atypical but hyper athletic major producer out of a major BCS conference (Abdullah). I guess you could throw Marion Grice, Jerick McKinnon, Antonio Andrews, and Charles Sims in there too for the simple reason that they've been invited to play in the Senior Bowl.

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

I just took a first pass at the QBs. This will change as we get actual HTs/WTs for them during the all-star season and combine (is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!), but based only on collegiate performance and estimated measurables...

Johnny Manziel

Blake Bortles

Derek Carr

Jordan Lynch

Jimmy Garoppolo

Bryce Petty

Tajh Boyd

Teddy Bridgewater

Brett Hundley

Aaron Murray

A.J. McCarron

Zach Mettenberger

 

[Concept Coop]

(is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!),

What would Teddy need to weigh to measure as your top option?

The rule changes are only going to continue to protect QBs. As Teddy isn't a big runner, I personally am not too concerned his lack of bulk. It would be nice. But, especially at only 21 YO, again, I'm not putting too much stock in it.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Does Jordan Lynch have an arm strength problem or character issues? Or is he being discounted just because he's short and plays at a small school?

Short, average at best arm strength, small school, mediocre passing stats (62.6 CMP%, 7.16 YPA), guy has next to no chance of being a quality NFL starting QB imo.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

(is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!),

What would Teddy need to weigh to measure as your top option?

The rule changes are only going to continue to protect QBs. As Teddy isn't a big runner, I personally am not too concerned his lack of bulk. It would be nice. But, especially at only 21 YO, again, I'm not putting too much stock in it.

It's not that simple, but at 6'3" I'd definitely want him to be north of 220.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Does Jordan Lynch have an arm strength problem or character issues? Or is he being discounted just because he's short and plays at a small school?

Short, average at best arm strength, small school, mediocre passing stats (62.6 CMP%, 7.16 YPA), guy has next to no chance of being a quality NFL starting QB imo.

Thanks TK

 

[Concept Coop]

(is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!),

What would Teddy need to weigh to measure as your top option?

The rule changes are only going to continue to protect QBs. As Teddy isn't a big runner, I personally am not too concerned his lack of bulk. It would be nice. But, especially at only 21 YO, again, I'm not putting too much stock in it.

It's not that simple, but at 6'3" I'd definitely want him to be north of 220.

I'm excited to read your write up on him. I personally think he's the top option by a good margin. He'll be one of the most accurate QBs in the league on day one, and I find comfort in his college system. But plenty don't view his as a slam dunk, as I do.

 

[lod01]

Does Jordan Lynch have an arm strength problem or character issues? Or is he being discounted just because he's short and plays at a small school?

Short, average at best arm strength, small school, mediocre passing stats (62.6 CMP%, 7.16 YPA), guy has next to no chance of being a quality NFL starting QB imo.

Thanks TK

Lynch is not NFL material. he's a running QB. it would take years to fix him.

 

[Xue]

Never really been a big Carey fan, but at some point the production has to mean something. It can't all be by accident.

I don't get this line of reasoning. I'd say the production (total stats) means he can stay healthy and not necessarily that he's talented.

I think averaging over 5.8 yards per carry over 625 carries in a major BCS conference says a lot more about a player then simply that he does a good job of staying healthy.

Yea, that's what I was getting at. Success of that magnitude isn't an accident. The Pac-12 is a pretty high level of competition and if you can dominate in that league then you probably have special skills in certain areas of the game. Whether or not those qualities are the "right" skills that will translate to the NFL is another matter. Obviously not all productive college backs are going to be good pros. I'd still say that most of them are pretty talented in one way or another.

I can guarantee you Carey isn't averaging 5.8 YPC in the ACC or SEC. Just because a conference is BCS doesn't mean it has great competition.

As you said, EBF, you don't like him much. So why are you ranking him? I'm sure there have plenty of PAC10/12 RBs in the past who are more talented than Carey that never posted the "production" he did.

 

[EBF]

I can guarantee you Carey isn't averaging 5.8 YPC in the ACC or SEC. Just because a conference is BCS doesn't mean it has great competition.
As you said, EBF, you don't like him much. So why are you ranking him? I'm sure there have plenty of PAC10/12 RBs in the past who are more talented than Carey that never posted the "production" he did.

I think the Pac-12 is a much tougher league than the ACC. SEC is solid, but the PAC is probably closer to its equivalent than people realize. IMO the league (outside of USC) tends to be a little underrated nationally. You'll probably see that in bowl season. Fresno was supposed to be a pretty good team and USC just scraped them off the mat. Oregon should crush Texas today and I think Stanford will handle MSU pretty easily. The conference should easily finish with a winning record in bowl season.

That's not really my main point though. My main point was that to be a huge star in a very difficult college conference requires a pretty high level of talent, so even though I don't really like Carey that much when I watch him run, there must be some good qualities to his game or else he wouldn't have been this successful. None of that is to say he's a dynamite pro prospect or a lock for NFL success. Only that he warrants a pretty long look.

 

[Faust]

Norris' Mock Draft: Dec. 30

 

[Faust]

Sammy Watkins, Marqise Lee lead top WR prospects

 

[jurb26]

Norris' Mock Draft: Dec. 30

First one I've seen with Jarvis Landry in the first. I've been high on him for a while but I hope he doesn't go that high. It will drive the price up.

 

[EBF]

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

Not done with the WRs yet and some of that will depend on who declares for the draft.

Also, I haven't really scouted QBs at all this year besides watching a random assortment of Pac-12 games. I think you can get a pretty good feel for a RB/WR/TE after watching just a few minutes of games and highlights. With QBs, I think it takes a lot longer. It's the most complicated position and the only one where intangibles like poise/accuracy/improvisation/field vision are more important than basic physical attributes like size/speed/explosiveness. To really get a good feel for a QB, I think you need to watch a few games. I just haven't had the time or desire to do that this year, so I'll probably just rank those guys more based on their stats and their draft position than much else.

 

[Spike]

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

Not done with the WRs yet and some of that will depend on who declares for the draft.

Also, I haven't really scouted QBs at all this year besides watching a random assortment of Pac-12 games. I think you can get a pretty good feel for a RB/WR/TE after watching just a few minutes of games and highlights. With QBs, I think it takes a lot longer. It's the most complicated position and the only one where intangibles like poise/accuracy/improvisation/field vision are more important than basic physical attributes like size/speed/explosiveness. To really get a good feel for a QB, I think you need to watch a few games. I just haven't had the time or desire to do that this year, so I'll probably just rank those guys more based on their stats and their draft position than much else.

My bad for being vague. I meant a single, combined tiered listing. So all of the positions in one list.

 

[EBF]

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

Not done with the WRs yet and some of that will depend on who declares for the draft.

Also, I haven't really scouted QBs at all this year besides watching a random assortment of Pac-12 games. I think you can get a pretty good feel for a RB/WR/TE after watching just a few minutes of games and highlights. With QBs, I think it takes a lot longer. It's the most complicated position and the only one where intangibles like poise/accuracy/improvisation/field vision are more important than basic physical attributes like size/speed/explosiveness. To really get a good feel for a QB, I think you need to watch a few games. I just haven't had the time or desire to do that this year, so I'll probably just rank those guys more based on their stats and their draft position than much else.

My bad for being vague. I meant a single, combined tiered listing. So all of the positions in one list.

I have a rough idea of what that would look like, but I'm not ready to post one just yet.

 

[EastonBlues22]

(is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!),

What would Teddy need to weigh to measure as your top option?

The rule changes are only going to continue to protect QBs. As Teddy isn't a big runner, I personally am not too concerned his lack of bulk. It would be nice. But, especially at only 21 YO, again, I'm not putting too much stock in it.

I agree.

Most QBs have concerns about things like accuracy, pocket presence/movement, read progressions, footwork, arm strength, release quickness, mobility, etc. The way I see it, if a QBs relative lack of weight is your biggest concern about him as a prospect, then he must be a pretty darn good prospect.

 

[EBF]

Moncrief going out with a bang today. 100+ yards and a TD through 3 quarters against Georgia Tech. He was rumored to be on the fence about declaring, but his preseason comments showed him leaning towards turning pro and my hunch is that he'll split on the back of a solid game like this.

 

[Faust]

NFLDraftScout.com Mock Drafts Updated: 12/30/13

 

[loose circuits]

I don't think Amir Abdullah is going pro based on.what I'm hearing in Nebraska

First I'm seeing of Jace Amaro and hes the real deal

 

[MoveToSkypager]

Apparently Bishop Sankey made it official and declared.

 

[DaveL]

Apparently Bishop Sankey made it official and declared.

Melvin Gordon's decision probably made it easier for Sankey to declare. Outside of Lache, not seeing much in the RB department

 

[BigTex]

Apparently Bishop Sankey made it official and declared.

This makes me happy.

ETA: RB Sankey declares for the 2014 NFL Draft

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.
Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.
Source: Joe Schad on Twitter
Dec 30 - 7:31 PM

 

[aggs]

Apparently Bishop Sankey made it official and declared.

Melvin Gordon's decision probably made it easier for Sankey to declare. Outside of Lache, not seeing much in the RB department

Carlos Hyde.

 

[Milkman]

I don't think Amir Abdullah is going pro based on.what I'm hearing in Nebraska

First I'm seeing of Jace Amaro and hes the real deal

If you believe he's an above average/elite RZ target then he's the #1 TE in this class and should probably be a top 6 draft pick this year in rookie drafts.

 

[MoveToSkypager]

Don't know if it was made official beforehand, but the announcers* said Jace Amaro is declaring. I think Ebron is better, but I think he's gonna be a good one.

*sorry, that's the Holiday Bowl announcers

 

[Concept Coop]

I don't think Amir Abdullah is going pro based on.what I'm hearing in Nebraska

First I'm seeing of Jace Amaro and hes the real deal

If you believe he's an above average/elite RZ target then he's the #1 TE in this class and should probably be a top 6 draft pick this year in rookie drafts.

It should take a special TE prospect to be selected in the first round, let alone the top half. Eifert was over-drafted last year, and I was a culprit. The ADP gap between Eifert and the field was too wide. He was never so much more likely to hit than the likes of Reed, Kelce, Ertz, etc., to justify the difference in cost. Ertz at 3.01 was much better value than Eifert at 1.07.

On top of this, largely, rookie TEs lose value the first year. Eifert, Escobar, Kelce, McDonald, and maybe even Ertz - they're no more valuable today than they were on draft day. Some less valuable, such as Eifert. Same players, the new car smell just isn't as strong.

I think Amaro could prove worthy of a top 5-8 pick, but I won't be punching his name, in standard PPR leagues, at least.

 

[GeeYouknit]

I play in 2 TE leagues mostly and I expect all 3 TE's to be 1st round rookie picks this year. There are varying views on each one, but there is someone who thinks each one is special.

 

[Bronx Bomber]

Help me sort through the Devante(s): Adams, Parker, Davis. They all seem to have their own heavy supporters. How do they stack up within this class if they all declare?

 

[Brewtown]

I think all three of these tight ends are sure fire studs. I feel as good about all of these three as I felt about Kellen Winslow Jr. We just need to keep them all away from motor bikes of any type.

Ebron - great receiver who moves very fluidly for his size. He plays and looks like an NFL player.

ASJ- moves good and is pretty athletic for a guy of his size. His size is what will make him an impossible to cover red-zone target. The NFL has not seen a guy at the TE position with his size and athleticism. Their is no comp for ASJ...

Amaro- great receiver. Catches everything thrown his way.

My mouth is watering about these three guys. I already have a stud tight end on my team for the next 6 years (Julius Thomas) and with the talent level so high at the TE position I am going to target grabbing another one of these talented studs.

All three of these guys are far better prospects/athletes than Tyler Eifert! Don't miss the boat!!!

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Oregon State junior QB Sean Mannion is surprisingly leaning towards declaring for May's draft, according to draft insider Tony Pauline.

We are shocked by the news. Mannion started red hot in the last two seasons, but quickly took a dive in production once his offensive line starting allowing more and more pressure. He struggles to win from restricted space and does not have mobility to evade the rush consistently. Still, Mannion does throw with touch and will be losing his top receiver, Brandin Cooks, to the NFL.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

Oregon senior WR Josh Huff caught five passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in the school's 30-7 win over Texas.

Huff will get lost in the wide receiver class this season, but expect him to draw a third to fifth-round selection. He does not shine in any one area, although Huff does not mind getting physical with defensive backs downfield. He will be in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.

Texas Tech junior TE Jace Amaro declared for the NFL Draft.

This could be considered the first flip in terms of decisions, but Amaro is a super talented receiving target who fits exactly what the NFL wants. He finished his final game with eight catches for 112 yards against Arizona State. Our own Josh Norris has ranked Jace Amaro as the top tight end in the country since October.


Source: Don Williams on Twitter

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.


Source: Joe Schad on Twitter

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

An NFL general manager told NFL.com's Ian Rapoport that the 2014 quarterback class reminds him of the QBs in the 2011 draft.

Ladies and gentleman, that isn't a compliment. After Cam Newton, the 2011 class was filled with duds such as Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder. Of course, that doesn't mean that the 2011 draft class was subpar. On the contrary, the top 15 included: Von Miller, Marcell Dareus, A.J. Green, Patrick Peterson, Julio Jones, Aldon Smith, Tyron Smith, J.J. Watt, Nick Fairley, Robert Quinn and Mike Pouncey. This year's quarterback group is very deep, but some believe that it doesn't possess a blue-chip prospect.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter

 

[coolnerd]

Rotoworld:

An NFL general manager told NFL.com's Ian Rapoport that the 2014 quarterback class reminds him of the QBs in the 2011 draft.

Ladies and gentleman, that isn't a compliment. After Cam Newton, the 2011 class was filled with duds such as Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder. Of course, that doesn't mean that the 2011 draft class was subpar. On the contrary, the top 15 included: Von Miller, Marcell Dareus, A.J. Green, Patrick Peterson, Julio Jones, Aldon Smith, Tyron Smith, J.J. Watt, Nick Fairley, Robert Quinn and Mike Pouncey. This year's quarterback group is very deep, but some believe that it doesn't possess a blue-chip prospect.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter

As I look closer at this QB class, I think it has been overrated, but not quite as overall fraudulent as 2011.

 

[samkongado]

Anything to see here with Texas RB Malcolm Brown?

Was the #1 RB out of high school. Injured last year, came on late this year after Gray got hurt. Averaged 100 & 1 TD over last 8 games.

Not seeing much on him for the draft this year, assuming he declares.

Seems like a player who could be a better pro than college player, especially playing with the trainwreck Texas has at QB these days.

 

[lardonastick]

Rotoworld:

Oregon State junior QB Sean Mannion is surprisingly leaning towards declaring for May's draft, according to draft insider Tony Pauline.

We are shocked by the news. Mannion started red hot in the last two seasons, but quickly took a dive in production once his offensive line starting allowing more and more pressure. He struggles to win from restricted space and does not have mobility to evade the rush consistently. Still, Mannion does throw with touch and will be losing his top receiver, Brandin Cooks, to the NFL.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

Oregon senior WR Josh Huff caught five passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in the school's 30-7 win over Texas.

Huff will get lost in the wide receiver class this season, but expect him to draw a third to fifth-round selection. He does not shine in any one area, although Huff does not mind getting physical with defensive backs downfield. He will be in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.

Texas Tech junior TE Jace Amaro declared for the NFL Draft.

This could be considered the first flip in terms of decisions, but Amaro is a super talented receiving target who fits exactly what the NFL wants. He finished his final game with eight catches for 112 yards against Arizona State. Our own Josh Norris has ranked Jace Amaro as the top tight end in the country since October.


Source: Don Williams on Twitter

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.


Source: Joe Schad on Twitter

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

 

[EBF]

Anything to see here with Texas RB Malcolm Brown?

Was the #1 RB out of high school. Injured last year, came on late this year after Gray got hurt. Averaged 100 & 1 TD over last 8 games.

Not seeing much on him for the draft this year, assuming he declares.

Seems like a player who could be a better pro than college player, especially playing with the trainwreck Texas has at QB these days.

Watched all of the Oregon/Texas game last night. Did not think he looked like anything special. Just a typical 220 pound grinder without much elusiveness or big play ability. Could be comparable to someone like Mike James, Vick Ballard, or BJGE. Probably a mid day 3 pick whenever he declares.

 

[aggs]

Jordan Matthews vs. Allen Robinson is interesting. Both had a ton of their receiving production come off WR screens. Robinson doesn't do anything special in the red zone for a man of his size. Is Matthews faster? Robinson looks like a prototypical WR whereas Matthews has those skinny legs. I can see him doing Eric Decker like work in a potent offense.

 

[Xue]

Help me sort through the Devante(s): Adams, Parker, Davis. They all seem to have their own heavy supporters. How do they stack up within this class if they all declare?

Adams and Parker are strong jumpball guys in the redzone. Davis probably isn't declaring, but coming from the MWC he's not thought of highly. More of a sleeper, even next year. He's fairly athletic himself with great size. I've got Parker over Adams and you can probably have him cheaper if he declares this year. Parker looks a legit 6'3" because you can clearly see him tower over defenders. I think Adams is closer to 6'1"-6'1.5".

There are concerns with Paker's yardage production, but anyone who actually watches Louisville should know that Parker doesn't play every down as well as they like to rotate their WRs and Bridgewater likes to spread the ball around. I'd estimate he only plays 75% of the snaps.

 

[Xue]

Jordan Matthews vs. Allen Robinson is interesting. Both had a ton of their receiving production come off WR screens. Robinson doesn't do anything special in the red zone for a man of his size. Is Matthews faster? Robinson looks like a prototypical WR whereas Matthews has those skinny legs. I can see him doing Eric Decker like work in a potent offense.

I'd say Matthews is faster with the ball and without the ball.

 

[MoveToSkypager]

Rotoworld:

Oregon State junior QB Sean Mannion is surprisingly leaning towards declaring for May's draft, according to draft insider Tony Pauline.

We are shocked by the news. Mannion started red hot in the last two seasons, but quickly took a dive in production once his offensive line starting allowing more and more pressure. He struggles to win from restricted space and does not have mobility to evade the rush consistently. Still, Mannion does throw with touch and will be losing his top receiver, Brandin Cooks, to the NFL.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

Oregon senior WR Josh Huff caught five passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in the school's 30-7 win over Texas.

Huff will get lost in the wide receiver class this season, but expect him to draw a third to fifth-round selection. He does not shine in any one area, although Huff does not mind getting physical with defensive backs downfield. He will be in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.

Texas Tech junior TE Jace Amaro declared for the NFL Draft.

This could be considered the first flip in terms of decisions, but Amaro is a super talented receiving target who fits exactly what the NFL wants. He finished his final game with eight catches for 112 yards against Arizona State. Our own Josh Norris has ranked Jace Amaro as the top tight end in the country since October.


Source: Don Williams on Twitter

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.


Source: Joe Schad on Twitter

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

Sankey is a beast.

 

[Xue]

Rotoworld:

Oregon State junior QB Sean Mannion is surprisingly leaning towards declaring for May's draft, according to draft insider Tony Pauline.

We are shocked by the news. Mannion started red hot in the last two seasons, but quickly took a dive in production once his offensive line starting allowing more and more pressure. He struggles to win from restricted space and does not have mobility to evade the rush consistently. Still, Mannion does throw with touch and will be losing his top receiver, Brandin Cooks, to the NFL.


Source: TFY Draft Insider

Oregon senior WR Josh Huff caught five passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in the school's 30-7 win over Texas.

Huff will get lost in the wide receiver class this season, but expect him to draw a third to fifth-round selection. He does not shine in any one area, although Huff does not mind getting physical with defensive backs downfield. He will be in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.

Texas Tech junior TE Jace Amaro declared for the NFL Draft.

This could be considered the first flip in terms of decisions, but Amaro is a super talented receiving target who fits exactly what the NFL wants. He finished his final game with eight catches for 112 yards against Arizona State. Our own Josh Norris has ranked Jace Amaro as the top tight end in the country since October.


Source: Don Williams on Twitter

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.


Source: Joe Schad on Twitter

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

Guys like Ray Rice and Jamaal Charles were viewed similarly. I wouldn't worry if you are a Sankey fan.

 

[IHEARTFF]

Do you have a tiered listing of all the skill position players for this year's draft? PPR and non-PPR? I think it's that which will really generate some discussion.

I just took a first pass at the QBs. This will change as we get actual HTs/WTs for them during the all-star season and combine (is Bridgewater really < 200 pounds?!), but based only on collegiate performance and estimated measurables...

Johnny Manziel

Blake Bortles

Derek Carr

Jordan Lynch

Jimmy Garoppolo

Bryce Petty

Tajh Boyd

Teddy Bridgewater

Brett Hundley

Aaron Murray

A.J. McCarron

Zach Mettenberger

Cmon, that is ridiculous.

 

[Brewtown]

Washington junior RB Bishop Sankey declared for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Sankey rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries in his last collegiate game, Friday's bowl victory over BYU. He rushed for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns on 327 carries in 2013. Sankey received a third-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. He doesn't possess any elite attributes, but Sankey is a solid receiving back who runs with good patience and vision. He should be a productive platoon back at the next level and we expect his name to be called on the draft's second day.

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

I think Sankey is "in the mix" for the first RB taken in dynasty drafts. If he runs in the 4.4's at the combine he is a definite consideration. I am having a hard time separating Ka'Deem Carey/Sankey/Seastrunk. Right now that is how I would rank these three pre-combine. Carlos Hyde deserves mention in this group as well although I would have him just outside this group. I am very interested in Jeremy Hill's decision. The addition of Hill would give this class great depth.

I like to have my prospects ranked pre-combine and after the combine. I generally stick with how I have them ranked after the combine so I do not change my decision based on their NFL situation. It is my view that talent rises to the top....

Here are my current RB rankings:

1: Ka'Deem Carey

2: Bishop Sankey

3: Lache Seastrunk

4: Jeremy Hill

5: Carlos Hyde

6: Tre Mason

7: Andre Williams

3-6 will probably move quite a bit based on combine performance. I'm pretty confident in the 1-2 of Carey / Sankey....

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

Most in the fantasy world seem to like him a lot, including the large majority on this board. But I'm in the boat that he's just an afterthought. Has no special qualities and is often too indecisive when picking running lanes imo.

 

[Brewtown]

Is this how most here view Sankey? Basically as an afterthought? I haven't seen enough to form an opinion, but I thought he was more highly regarded than that.

Most in the fantasy world seem to like him a lot, including the large majority on this board. But I'm in the boat that he's just an afterthought. Has no special qualities and is often too indecisive when picking running lanes imo.

Size- short stature does not bother me... Many a smaller RB have had an advantage of hiding behind and disappearing behind o-lineman. Ray Rice is the best comp- small quick runner who has proved tough enough to also run inside.

Quickness

Good hands

Good athlete who did not come out of nowhere-Sankey attended Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane, Washington. During his career he rushed for 4,355 yards. He earned first team All-State his junior and senior seasons. He broke the Greater Spokane League rushing record for career yards. He was also name the amateur inland northwest athlete of the year.

Consistent production in a big conference

What more do you want in a RB Prospect?

 

[Xue]

I will post my updated rankings after all bowl games, but I've got Devonta Freeman up there with Sankey. And I don't understand the Carey hype, but none for James White.

 

[Concept Coop]

Ray Rice is the best comp- small quick runner who has proved tough enough to also run inside.

I'm torn. I wouldn't be surprised by Ray Rice, but I wouldn't be surprised by Tashard Choice either. Very interested in what the pros think, personally.

 

[EBF]

What more do you want in a RB Prospect?

I think if you're looking for a top level starter you want someone who brings special qualities to the table. Most of the real Pro Bowl type of guys in the NFL are freaks in one way or another (whether it's with rare power, speed, quickness, or all of the above). I think Sankey is a "good at everything, but great at nothing" kind of guy. Like a lesser version of Marshawn Lynch or Doug Martin. IMO his ultimate value will hinge pretty heavily on his draft slot/landing slot. Stick him in a RB wasteland like Jacksonville or Oakland and he could be solid in FF right away ala Stacy/Bell/Lacy. Stick him in a backup role and he might not be talented enough to ever climb out of it. Barring some kind of monster showing at the combine, I think he's a 2nd-3rd tier prospect in this rookie class. Solid. Just not special.

If I were running an NFL team, I would only invest a high pick at RB if I felt I was getting something special. There is more wow factor with players like Seastrunk and Williams.

 

[Brewtown]

What more do you want in a RB Prospect?

I think if you're looking for a top level starter you want someone who brings special qualities to the table. Most of the real Pro Bowl type of guys in the NFL are freaks in one way or another (whether it's with rare power, speed, quickness, or all of the above). I think Sankey is a "good at everything, but great at nothing" kind of guy. Like a lesser version of Marshawn Lynch or Doug Martin. IMO his ultimate value will hinge pretty heavily on his draft slot/landing slot. Stick him in a RB wasteland like Jacksonville or Oakland and he could be solid in FF right away ala Stacy/Bell/Lacy. Stick him in a backup role and he might not be talented enough to ever climb out of it. Barring some kind of monster showing at the combine, I think he's a 2nd-3rd tier prospect in this rookie class. Solid. Just not special.

If I were running an NFL team, I would only invest a high pick at RB if I felt I was getting something special. There is more wow factor with players like Seastrunk and Williams.

None of these guys will probably be 1st rounders. I agree with your sentiment that I would only use a first rounder on a RB with elite level special talent. Those are few and far between (AP, Barry Sanders, Bo Jackson). I am talking fantasy football (dynasty fantasy football to be more specific). Just in scanning the top 10 RBs this year in one of my leagues I see names like: Jamaal Charles, LeSean McCoy, Matt Forte, Demarco Murray, and Alfred Morris. None of these 5 guys were first round picks. While yes in a perfect world I would be looking at only looking at extreme game changers with extreme special talents, but as you can see if you only drafted extreme game changers you are missing out on 1/2 of the top 10 NFL RBs from 2013. Sankey is special. Just look at his production at a very high level. If you have watched his games you cannot miss the specialness of his cuts/runs (did you see the bowl game? - his cuts were sick!). Then you do a little more research and come to find out he was a stud in high school as well, and again what more do you want. All women don't look like Kate Upton and all RBs don't look like AP.

Any scout/talent evaluator can pick an AP....

 

[EBF]

Sankey is special. Just look at his production at a very high level. If you have watched his games you cannot miss the specialness of his cuts/runs (did you see the bowl game? - his cuts were sick!). Then you do a little more research and come to find out he was a stud in high school as well, and again what more do you want. All women don't look like Kate Upton and all RBs don't look like AP.

Any scout/talent evaluator can pick an AP....

You asked what more you could want in a RB prospect and I think I gave a fair answer. You're right that not every RB is AP, but the ideal RB is AP.

If anyone will be like McCoy/Charles, my guess is that it will be Seastrunk. He has dynamic qualities like those two. Also a bit like Gio Bernard. I still think he might sneak into the late 1st despite what the current mocks say.

I see Sankey as being somewhere in the middle between Montee Ball and Doug Martin. No reason why he can't be productive if given touches. Not an obvious top 15 NFL talent though IMO.