2018 Newsletter – December
Frank Coyle, www.draftinsiders.com
Draft Insiders’ Digest – 27th Season
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December 2017 Newsletter
Dec. 19, 2017
Copyrighted – Dec. 2017
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Index
Important Dates pg. 1 Pro Prospects from 2017 season pgs. 4-8
NFL Selection Order pg. 2 Underclassmen Declared pgs. 8-9
Two Round Mock Draft pgs. 3-4 Top 100 Pro Prospects pgs. 9-11
Top 25 Small College Prospects pgs. 11-12
January All-Star Games 2018 Postseason Schedule
Jan. 14 – Tropical Bowl – FBS All-star Game – Daytona Beach, Florida
http://www.tropicalbowl.com/
Jan. 20 – NFLPA Collegiate Game – Los Angeles, Ca.- FS1
Jan. 20 – East-West Shrine – St. Petersburg, Florida – 3 pm est – NFL Network
For Complete East-West Shrine All-star Game info including updated Roster acceptances
Go to http://www.shrinegame.com/
** Senior Bowl Game – Jan 27, 2018 Mobile, Alabama – 1:30 pm CT- NFL Network **
Weigh-in- Practices – Monday Jan 22nd thru Thursday Jan 25th
For Complete Senior Bowl info including updated Roster acceptances
Go to https://www.seniorbowl.com/
Important NFL 2018 Dates
NFL Postseason
December 13 – League Meeting, Irving, Texas
December 31 – Final NFL regular week 17
2018 Postseason
January 1 – Earliest permissible date for clubs to renegotiate or extend the rookie contract of a drafted rookie who was selected in any round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Any permissible renegotiated or extended player contract will not be considered a rookie contract, and will not be subject to the rules that limit rookie contracts.
January 1 – Option exercise period begins for Fifth-Year Option for First- Round Selections from the 2015 NFL Draft. To exercise the option, the club must give written notice to the player on or after January 1, 2018, but prior to May 3, 2018
January 6-7 – Wild Card Playoffs.
January 7 – Assistant coaches under contract to playoff clubs that have byes in the Wild Card weekend may be interviewed for head coaching positions through the conclusion of the Wild Card games.
January 13-14 – Divisional Playoffs.
January 14 – Assistant coaches under contract to playoff clubs that won their Wild Card games may be interviewed for head coaching positions through the conclusion of Divisional Playoff games.
January 15 – Deadline for college players that are underclassmen to apply for special eligibility. A list of players who are accepted into the NFL Draft will be sent to clubs on January 19.
January 20 – East-West Shrine Game, Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida.
Jan 20 – NFLPA All-Star Game, Los Angeles, Ca.
January 21 – AFC and NFC Championship Games.
January 27 – Senior Bowl, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, Mobile, Alabama.
January 28 – NFL Pro Bowl, Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida.
January 28 – An assistant coach, whose team is participating in the Super Bowl, who has previously interviewed for another club’s head coaching job may have a second interview with such club no later than the Sunday preceding the Super Bowl.
Feb 5 – **** Super Bowl LII **** U.S. Bank Stadium, Minnesota.
February 20 – First day for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.
Feb 27-March 5 – NFL Combine Timing and Testing, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, In.
March 6 – Prior to 4:00 p.m., NY time, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.
March 12-14 – During the period beginning at 12 noon, New York time, on March 12th and ending at 3:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14th, clubs are permitted to contact, and enter into contract negotiations with, the certified agents of players who will become Unrestricted Free Agents upon the expiration of their 2017 player contracts at 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 14. However, a contract cannot be executed with a new club until 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 14.
During the above two-day negotiating period, no direct contact is permitted between a prospective unrestricted free agent and any employee or representative of a club, other than the player’s current club.
March 14 – The 2018 League Year and Free Agency period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.
The first day of the 2018 League Year will end at 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14. Clubs will receive a personnel notice that will include all transactions submitted to the League office during the period between 4:00 p.m., New York time, and 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14.
March 14 – Trading period for 2018 begins at 4:00 p.m. est time, after expiration of all 2017 contracts.
March 25-28 – Annual League Meeting, Orlando, Florida.
April 2 – Clubs that hired a new head coach after the end of the 2017 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.
April 16 – Clubs with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.
April 20 – Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.
April 25 – Deadline for prior club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.
**** NFL Draft 2018 – April 26-28 ****
Thursday through Saturday – Dallas will host at ATT Stadium in Arlington Texas
NFL Draft 2018 Selection Order – The Browns are ‘On the Clock’!
Once again, the Cleveland Browns are On the Clock with the first overall selection for the NFL Draft 2018. It marks the second consecutive year the Browns earned the top overall draft choice. The last team to accomplish this was the… Cleveland Browns in 1999 and 2000 during their early expansion years. Not much as changed in almost 20 years. The Browns are just the 5th team to earn this back to back year accomplishment. They have been one of the worst teams in recent memory in all major sports with ongoing poor results despite or because of a constant turnover in their front office and coaching staffs. Their draft decisions have beem atrocious with several trades out of the top early selections, especially passing on a chance of either QBs, Carson Wentz or Jared Goff just two years ago. This Sunday they can tie the Detroit Lions as the only teams to go 0-16 during the regular season with a loss to the Steelers. Head coach Hue Jackson will complete his second season this weekend after going 1-15 last season. His 1-30 two-year record stands by itself as one of the worst in NFL history.
The Browns are in position to make major strides this April. In addition to the top overall pick, they also hold the Houston Texans #1 choice, currently the 4th overall selection. Rarely does a club hold two #1 picks let alone two in the top five overall choices. The Browns also hold three #2 picks, one #3 and two #4 selections, a boatload of top 100 draft choices to address several major need areas. New GM John Dorsey came aboard midseason 2017 and has had a few months to evaluate the current roster, in addition to their salary cap. He is in position to bolster a decent roster that has some young players in place, though needs players in key positions and leadership roles on both sides of the ball. The Browns upcoming decisions in both veteran Free Agency and the NFL Draft 2018 will dictate the movement of many players this offseason especially among the premier selections.
Playoffs – Conference & Super Bowl games determine final positions
x – division winner y – playoff berth
# Team W-L / Opp W-L % # Team W-L / Opp W-L %
1 Cleveland 0-15 .517 17 Buffalo 8-7 .492
2 NY Giants 2-13 .533 18 Detroit 8-7 .496
3 Indianapolis 3-12 .483 19 Dallas 8-7 .500
4 Cleveland (Houston) 4-11 .508 20 Seattle 9-6 .488
5 Tampa Bay 4-11 .558 21 Tennessee 8-7 .438
6 Denver 5-10 .483 22 Baltimore 9-6 .438
7 San Francisco 5-10 .521 23 Buffalo (x Kan City) 9-6 .479
8 NY Jets 5-10 .521 24 Atlanta 9-6 .550
9 Chicago 5-10 .558 25 x Jacksonville 10-5 .425
10 Cincinnati 6-9 .467 26 x LA Rams 11-4 .500
11 Oakland 6-9 .508 27 y Carolina 11-4 .538
12 Miami 6-9 .542 28 y New Orleans 11-4 .538
13 Arizona 7-8 .488 29 x Minnesota 12-3 .500
14 Washington 7-8 .538 30 x Pittsburgh 12-3 .450
15 Green Bay 7-8 .538 31 x New England 12-3 .488
16 LA Chargers 8-7 .463 32 x Philadelphia 13-2 .458
Team tie-breaking procedure for the NFL Draft
If two or more clubs are tied in the selection order, the strength-of-schedule tie breaker is applied, subject to the following exceptions for playoff clubs: The Super Bowl winner is last and the Super Bowl loser next-to-last. Any non-Super Bowl playoff club involved in a tie shall be assigned priority within its segment below that of non-playoff clubs and in the order that the playoff clubs exited from the playoffs. Within a tied segment a playoff club that loses in the Wild-Card game will have priority over a playoff club that loses in the Divisional playoff game that in turn will have priority over a club that loses in the Conference Championship game. If two tied clubs exited the playoffs in the same round, the tie is broken by strength of schedule. If any ties cannot be broken by strength of schedule, the divisional or conference tie breakers, when applicable, are applied. Any ties that still exist are broken by a coin flip.
NFL Draft 2018 – Two Round Mock Draft – December, 2017
* Underclassmen expected to declare for the NFL Draft 2018
Exact draft order to be determined at close of season and postseason
x – Division winner y – made playoffs
1st Round
1 Cleveland – 0-15 – * Sam Darnold QB Southern Cal 6-4 225
2 NY Giants – 2-13 – * Josh Rosen QB UCLA 6-4 220
3 Indianapolis – 3-12 – * Saquon Barkley RB Penn State 5-11 225
4 Cleveland (Houston)- 4-11 – * Derwin James S Florida State 6-3 210
5 Tampa Bay – 4-11 – * Orlando Brown OT Oklahoma 6-8 360
6 Denver – 5-10 .483 – * Josh Allen QB Wyoming 6-5 235
7 San Francisco – 5-10 – Mike McGlinchey OT Notre Dame 6-8 315
8 NY Jets – 5-10 – * Courtland Sutton WR SMU 6-4 215
9 Chicago – 5-10 – * Equanimeous St. Brown WR Notre Dame 6-5 205
10 Cincinnati – 6-9 – Bradley Chubb DE NC State 6-4 275
11 Oakland – 6-9 – * Arden Key DE LSU 6-6 240
12 Miami – 6-9 – * Minkah Fitzpatrick S Alabama 6-1 205
13 Arizona – 7-8 – * Lamar Jackson QB Louisville 6-3 200
14 Washington – 7-8 – * Derrius Guice RB LSU 5-11 215
15 Green Bay – 7-8 – * Roquan Smith LB Georgia 6-1 225
16 LA Chargers – 8-7 – * Connor Williams OT Texas 6-6 320
17 Buffalo – 8-7 – Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma St 6-5 230
18 Detroit – 8-7 – Quenton Nelson OG Notre Dame 6-5 330
19 Dallas – 8-7 – * Carlton Davis CB Auburn 6-1 205
20 Seattle – 9-6 – * Denzel Ward CB Ohio State 5-10 190
21 Tennessee – 8-7 – * Joshua Jackson CB Iowa 6-1 195
22 Baltimore – 9-6 – * Tremaine Edmunds LB Virginia Tech 6-5 240
23 Buffalo (Kan City) – 9-6 – * Calvin Ridley WR Alabama 6-1 190
24 Atlanta – 9-6 – Christian Wilkins DT Clemson 6-4 310
25 x Jacksonville – 10-5 – * Kolton Miller OT UCLA 6-8 310
26 x LA Rams – 11-4 – Christian Kirk WR Texas A&M 5-11 200
27 y Carolina – 11-4 – James Washington WR Oklahoma St 6-0 205
28 y New Orleans – 11-4 – Baker Mayfield QB Oklahoma 6-0 215
29 x Minnesota – 12-3 – Martinas Rankin OT Mississippi St 6-5 305
30 x Pittsburgh – 12-3 – * Mark Andrews TE Oklahoma 6-5 255
31 x New England – 12-3 – Chukwuma Okorafor OT Western Michigan 6-6 330
32 x Philadelphia – 13-2 – * Jaire Alexander CB Louisville 5-11 190
2nd Round
33 Cleveland – * Ronald Jones II RB Southern Cal 6-1 195
34 NY Giants – * Clelin Ferrell DE Clemson 6-5 265
35 Indianapolis – Derrick Nnadi DT Florida State 6-1 315
36 Tampa Bay – * DeShon Elliott S Texas 6-2 205
37 Cleveland (Houston) – Anthony Miller WR Memphis 5-11 190
38 New England (San Fran) – Vita Vea DT Washington 6-5 345
39 NY Jets – Harold Landry LB Boston College 6-3 250
40 Chicago – * Mitch Hyatt OT Clemson 6-5 295
41 Denver – * Malik Jefferson LB Texas 6-3 240
42 Oakland – * Bryce Love RB Stanford 5-10 190
43 Miami – Braden Smith OG Auburn 6-6 305
44 Cincinnati – Billy Price C Ohio State 6-4 310
45 Washington – * Da’Ron Payne DT Alabama 6-2 310
46 Green Bay – Ian Thomas TE Indiana 6-5 250
47 Arizona – Will Hernandez OG Texas-El Paso 6-3 330
48 Buffalo – * Taven Bryan DT Florida 6-5 295
49 Detroit – Maurice Hurst DT Michigan 6-2 285
50 Dallas – * Parris Campbell WR Ohio State 6-1 205
51 LA Chargers – * Leighton Vander Esch LB Boise St 6-4 240
52 Tennessee – Mike Gesicki TE Penn State 6-6 255
53 Baltimore – Tyrell Crosby OT Oregon 6-5 320
54 Kansas City – Uchenna Nwosu LB USC 6-2 240
55 Atlanta – Duke Ejiofor DE Wake Forest 6-4 270
56 NY Jets (Seattle) – * Kevin Toliver CB LSU 6-3 205
57 Jacksonville – * Tarvarus McFadden CB Florida State 6-2 195
58 Carolina – * Austin Bryant DE Clemson 6-4 265
59 San Fran (New Orleans) – * Deon Cain WR Clemson 6-1 210
60 Buffalo (LA Rams) – Michael Gallup WR Colorado St 6-1 195
61 Pittsburgh – Harrison Phillips DL Stanford 6-4 295
62 New England – Dallas Goedert TE South Dakota St 6-4 260
63 Minnesota – Royce Freeman RB Oregon 6-0 235
64 Cleveland (Phil) – * Isaiah Oliver CB Colorado 6-1 190
NFL Draft 2018 Scouting Report – Regular 2017 Season
Offensive Players
All underclassmen have until Jan. 15th to declare f or the NFL Draft 2018. Players then have three days to rescind their decision and return to school and retain their college eligibility. Most of the junior passers will probably declare after the 2017 college season. Most will be tempted to declare once given a very high draft projection this winter. The rookie salary cap changed significantly with the collective bargaining agreement. That should be a huge influence on borderline underclassmen declaring for the NFL with another record number of prospects opting to enter the NFL Draft 2018.
QB Josh Rosen, 6-4, 220 of UCLA is considered a possible #1 overall selection. He worked through a few minor injuries this season. He sat out the Bruins Bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft once he declares to turn pro which is expected. He has the components scouts love, but needs to develop the discretion to make better decisions. He still remains our top ranked QB player overall. He needs a big postseason workout at NFL Combine or his pro day to sustain that ranking. QB Sam Darnold 6-4, 225 of USC finished strong after some early season inconsistencies. He led the Trojans to a few huge victories. With the expected entrance of a few high-quality underclassmen QBs, Darnold has the talent to be the best in this class, though needs to impress in workouts thru April to retain a high ranking.
QB Mason Rudolph, 6-5, 230 of Oklahoma St displays a strong arm and the accuracy to make deep throws. He had a strong bowl performance vs Va. Tech. His postseason workouts will be critical to his final grade, but he has the tools that will warrant a long look by an NFL staff. He hopes to elevate to a first round grade. QB Baker Mayfield, 6-0, 215 of Oklahoma played very well again this season, earning the Heisman Trophy. He has responded vs top competition with the ability to make all the throws. He has a strong arm and frame with very good mobility and could rise to a first round selection with an impressive postseason. He shows the development to read coverage quickly and picking up secondary receivers. He accepted a Senior Bowl invitation. QB Josh Allen, 6-5, 225 of Wyoming made significant strides over his junior season and declared after his bowl victory. He shows fine pocket presence and touch on his passes. He has learned to go through his progressions better and let routes develop. He returned from a shoulder injury to make all the throws is his finale vs Toledo in the Famous Potato Bowl.
QB Luke Falk, 6-3, 215 of Washington St was a rising highly regarded passer with a high grade entering the 2017 season. He had a hot and cold season, though remains a possible early round selection with a strong postseason. He needs to show well at an All-start week, the NFL Combine and his pro day. He has a live arm with good accuracy and the physical and mental skill set to star in the NFL. QB Riley Ferguson, 6-4, 220 of Memphis made huge strides this season that included finding secondary receivers and reading coverage. He is a kid with the physical tools to start in the NFL with some development on his throwing motion and further work on reading coverage. His All-star performance will determine if he moves into the early rounds. QB Jarrett Stidham, 6-3, 210 of Auburn shows premier skills, though limited reps after transferring. His upside potential will earn an early selection, though his level of development needs time at the pro level. QB Tanner Lee, 6-4, 215 of Nebraska has drawn interest off some nice late career improvement. He declared in December and is a savvy accurate passer with good leadership skills. He has above average arm strength and his fine touch allows him to hit receivers in stride. He needs to add muscle to hold up to the physicality of the game and will be heavily evaluated during the postseason.
RB Saquon Barkley, 5-11, 225 of Penn St had a great 2017 season. He is a blue chip talent with size, speed and power to be one of the premier backs in the game. He has proven durable over the past two seasons and has the skill set to be a rookie three down performer. He is expected to declare in January. RB Royce Freeman, 6-0, 235 of Oregon proved durable in 2017 after playing through nagging injuries as an underclassman. His natural playmaking ability as a runner and receiver makes him one of the most exciting prospects and one who can impact a club in several roles. He looks to impress at the Senior Bowl. RB Bo Scarbrough, 6-1, 230 of Alabama is a big power runner who has been highly successful in the Tides’ attack. He is a tough inside runner with the package to be a workhorse feature back. He is only average receiving skills and long speed. RB Akrum Wadley, 5-11, 195 of Iowa was a dominant runner in the Big Ten despite coming in under 200 lbs. He has a burst to the hole to use his strong frame to make the tough yardage with above average speed to break the play. He is a dependable pass catcher, though needs work as both a receiver and blocker. RB Ronald Jones III, 5-11, 190 of USC has been one of this season’s most exciting and productive backs. He displays deceptive toughness for his size with the talent to be a playmaker in several roles. He combines a nice skill set of natural instincts, quickness, compact size with the long speed to break plays. RB Nick Chubb, 5-10, 225 of Georgia was one of the best backs in the country after returning from an injury riddled 2016 season. He is a strong inside runner with a nose for the end zone. He should be one of the top backs off the board with natural running skills and the ability to consistently break tackles. He has the deceptive speed to break long gainers with the size to run inside and make the tough yardage. RB Justin Jackson, 5-11, 195 of Northwestern progressed nicely in his career with several 1000 yard+ rushing seasons. He has a nice level of development to be ready for the pro game as a feature back or high quality 1A type. Fast developing receiving skills.
RB Bryce Love, 5-10, 190 of Stanford had an outstanding 2017 performance where he showed the making the big play and rare toughness. He runs with an explosive burst with the quickness and long speed to be one of the best playmakers in this class. His game-to-game durability was impressive this season as he played through ongoing ankle issues. RB Myles Gaskin, 5-10, 190 of Washington is a pounder who can play that role. He carries a good grade as a 1A type back. He needs work as both a blocker and receiver and was a productive back in the talented Pac-12. RB Derrius Guice, 6-0, 215 of LSU had a strong 2017 performance in his most extensive career playing time despite missing some time due to injuries. He has the speed that allows him to hit the home run with the quickness and vision to be one of the more honest runners in the nation. He needs to impress at the NFL Combine and his pro day. He probably prepares to turn pro. RB Mark Walton, 5-9, 205 of Miami declared in December. He is a compact tough back with natural talent to earn a role as a 1A type. He needs a strong postseason to earn a middle round selection.
WR Anthony Miller, 5-11, 190 of Memphis has been an impact weapon as one of the nation’s emerging performers after a strong the 2017 season. He has the big-time separation speed to be a top-flight pro with a high level of development in the passing attack to line up inside or outside. He ranks as one of the top senior receivers in this class entering the critical postseason. WR Allen Lazard, 6-5, 225 of Iowa St had a good year performance that was instrumental in the Cyclones fine season. He has very good size with strong hands and deceptive speed to get deep. He is a tough intermediate playmaker who takes a hit and makes the difficult catch. WR James Washington, 6-2, 205 of Oklahoma St hadg an amazing 2017 season and benefitted from staying for his final season. He has shown impact ability consistently over his last few seasons despite double coverage often. He can be a difference maker as a pro, combining speed, quickness, power and running skills. Teammate Marcell Ateman, 6-5, 220 of Oklahoma State has intriguing skills for the NFL with big play ability as a top #2 receiver. He displays excellent hands and body control.
WR Calvin Ridley, 6-2, 210 of Alabama is a blue chip athlete that ranks him among the top seniors. He has a high level of development as a route runner with keen adjustments to coverage. He is a big rangy tough receiver who creates a huge matchup problem for most cover men and a fine threat in the red zone. WR Michael Gallup, 6-0, 210 of Colorado St has been a difference maker in the Rams’ offense over his long career, with high production despite average QB play. He has good speed with natural hands and running skills to be dangerous after the catch. He is dangerous in the red zone where his skills make him a tough matchup. He is expected to attend the Senior Bowl in January. WR Dante Pettis, 6-1, 190 of Washington was one of the hottest receivers in the nation this season with high production. He runs precise routes, shows sure hands and is a tough runner after the catch. He is a deceptive deep threat plus a game changing return specialist. WR Courtland Sutton, 6-4, 215 of SMU is a blue-chip underclassman with fine skills. He has imposing size with fine hands and leaping skills to win most matchups. He carries a first round grade and decided in December to declare. WR Christian Kirk, 6-0, 195 of Texas A&M is a polished receiver who developed nicely in a spread offense. He has fine size and top speed to change games, though his production was marginal with average QB play. WR Simmie Cobbs, 6-5, 215 of Indiana had a strong 2017season after missing time last fall. He looks to impress in the postseason workouts. With a strong postseason his stock could rise significantly with a nice showing. WR Parris Campbell, 6-0, 200 of Ohio St displays big play ability as both a receiver and returner. He is both fast and quick and has fine openfield running skills to impress NFL scouts. He has the package to be a fine Wild Cat weapon in a pro offense with further development. WR D.J. Chark, 6-3, 200 of LSU has impressive measurables which should elevate his stock during the workout phase. He is a big fast playmaker with impact ability, but needs to impress at the Senior Bowl.
TE Dallas Goedert, 6-4, 255 of South Dakota is a huge receiver who is a natural receiver with big play ability. He needs work as a blocker. He dominated the lower level and gets a chance to shine at the Senior Bowl week. TE Mike Gesicki, 6-5, 255 of Penn St. is a tough well-rounded prospect who gets to show what he can do with NFL caliber passers at the Senior Bowl week. He has fine hands and body control with adequate speed. His inline blocking is good and he has the frame to fill out further. TE Troy Fumagalli, 6-5, 245 of Wisconsin has had a very good final season, showing improved blocking along with his developed receiving skills. He can move up further with an impressive Senior Bowl performance where he hopes to display his well-rounded skill set. He lacks top speed. TE Mark Andrews, 6-5, 255 of Oklahoma has blue chip athleticism coupled with soft hands and good route running with top production working with QB Baker Mayfield. He is a first round talent who will have to impress in workouts to earn that selection. TE Ian Thomas, 6-5, 255 of Indiana is a raw blue-chip athlete. As a pro, he has intriguing upside potential especially as a receiver in the deep game. He is a tough drive blocker who has the talent to be a complete NFL starter in time. TE Adam Breneman, 6-4, 250 of Massachusetts has been one of the most productive receivers at this position with the deep speed and natural talent to be a factor early in those roles. He moves very well, catches everything and adjusts nicely to catch outside the box. TE Hayden Hurst, 6-5, 250 of South Carolina had a fine 2017 senior season and declared for the NFL Draft. He is well rounded and showed nice awareness in the passing game. He looks to impress this offseason with more muscle and technique work to improve as a blocker. TE Chris Herndon, 6-4, 255 of Miami was a big factor in the Hurricanes’ early season success. He is a good receiver with sound blocking talent at the point of attack and on the move. He is developed and very versatile to give an offense a unique weapon for many sets. He sustained a late season knee injury that may limit him through the postseason.
OT Connor Williams, 6-6, 310 of Texas declared for the NFL Draft 2018 in December. He combines size, reach, power and agility and could be the best left tackle available from this class in time with further experience. He has the skill set to be an NFL starter, though his ability to handle NFL caliber speed will be tested. OT Orlando Brown, 6-7, 340 of Oklahoma has excelled in the tough Big 12, manning the left side in pass protection. He could be one of the premier tackles in this class if he declares after his bowl game. He must have a strong week at the NFL Combine to earn a high first round grade. He has good feet and shows very good technique, overall strength and powerful hands to win most matchups. OT Martinas Rankin, 6-5, 310 of Mississippi State will be watched closely over the postseason especially at the Senior Bowl. He has the physical skills and experience to start early as pros at the left tackle spot. He projects first to left tackle where his fine technique and agility has graded out high vs top competition. OT Mike McClinchey, 6-8, 315 of Notre Dame moves well and delivers a wallop with his quick hands. He has the physical package to be a strong blocker and has the skill set scouts seek in a tackle prospect and is well suited for both sides. OT Brandon Parker, 6-7, 310 of North Carolina A&T is a fast rising small college prospect off a strong senior season. He moves well with left tackle agility and the power to fit either outside role. His performance at the Senior Bowl will determine his level of play vs top competition. OT Tyrell Crosby, 6-5, 320 of Oregon is a long agile tackle who has performed well in the Ducks pro-style offense. He needs a big Senior Bowl week to move into early rounds, though has the level of development to move up significantly with a big week in Mobile. OT Jamarco Jones, 6-5, 310 of Ohio St is a quick senior tackle with improving technique and power to finish. He looks to impress in the playoffs and All-star action to elevate his stock. OT Brian O’Neill, 6-6, 310 of Pittsburgh is a huge prospect with reach, footwork and power. He looks to impress in workout after declaring in December.
OT Mitch Hyatt, 6-5, 300 of Clemson is a fast rising prospect off a strong 2017 season. He moves well with left tackle agility and the power to fit either outside role. His performance in the playoffs and postseason will determine his level of play vs top competition. OT Kolton Miller, 6-8, 310 of UCLA is a massive tackle with long reach and surprising agility to trap or get to the second level. He protected QB Josh Rosen’s blindside nicely over his short career. OG Quenton Nelson, 6-5, 330 of Notre Dame is a physical guard who is highly developed to plug in as a rookie starter. He is a relentless blocker who moves well to adjust to counter moves with the power to anchor. OG Braden Smith, 6-6, 310 of Auburn is a quality prospect who dominated over his final few seasons. He has been a top interior lineman at guard and recommended for the Senior Bowl. He also lined up at right tackle. With a strong week in Mobile, Al, he could guarantee himself an early round grade. OG Will Hernandez, 6-3, 325 of Texas-El Paso is a mobile wide body guard with excellent power. OL Cody O’Connell, 6-8, 360 of Washington St is a huge lineman who displays great power and projects best on the interior. He anchors well in pass protection and looks to impress at the Senior Bowl to earn an early round selection. OC Billy Price, 6-4, 310 of Ohio State had a fine season in the pivot. He can play all three interior spots and is a sound technician with an early NFL starting grade. OL Frank Ragnow, 6-5, 315 of Arkansas was injured at midseason. He is a physical blocker who gets consistent movement at the point. OL Mason Cole, 6-5, 310 of Michigan is a versatile blocker with extensive experience over his four starting years. He looks to perform in an All-star game in January to showcase his NFL starting talent and rare versatility.
Defensive Players
DE Bradley Chubb, 6-4, 275 of N.C. St had a huge season that probably elevates him into the top 5 to 10 draft selections. He projects to play a few positions in both a 4-3 and 3-4 set with experience there. He is a three down defender with the development to provide impact early in his career. With an impressive postseason, he can earn a top 5 selection, best for the 4-3 front. DE Eric Allen, 6-5, 275 of Boston College had a strong 2017 season and declared for the NFL Draft. He has a big strong frame and ideal for the five technique role. He handles the double team block well, and shows the ability to push the pocket as a bull rusher. DE Arden Key, 6-6, 265 of LSU is a strong edge rusher over his SEC career and has been a disruptive force at times. He can change games with one play and an elite burst off the edge with the ability to bend the edge consistently. He has missed too many games and must prove durable for the NFL game. DE Sam Hubbard, 6-5, 265 of Ohio St is an imposing athlete with very good triangle numbers and the skill set to be a powerful and quick pass rusher who can bend the corner and bull rush to make key sacks. He shows the ability to stack at the point of attack and capable of playing both up and down. He declared in December. DE Harold Landry, 6-3, 250 of Boston College is a tweener defender with intriguing upside potential. He needs his pro position defined with the burst off the edge to change games. His positional versatility probably puts him on every clubs’ radar and probable early round defender especially for the 3-4 clubs. DE Duke Ejiofor, 6-4, 275 of Wake Forest is a blue-chip athlete who can change a game as a pass rusher. He shows explosiveness off the edge and wins with both power and speed. He looks to impress at the Senior Bowl with a strong performance to warrant an early round selection. DE Breeland Speaks, 6-3, 290 of Ole Miss declared for the NFL Draft after a strong finish in 2017. He is an ideal five technique end who can stack the run and push the pocket. DE Marcus Davenport, 6-7, 255 of UTSA has impressed over his senior season. He displays the burst off the edge to be disruptive. He shows great length and further growth potential. His burst off the edge had drawn attention from every pro defensive team. He could guarantee a high draft selection with a big week at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. DE Chad Thomas, 6-5, 275 of Miami is a blue-chip athlete with intriguing skills. He shows some explosiveness off the edge and wins with both power and speed. He looks to impress at the Senior Bowl with a strong performance to move into the early rounds.
DT Da’Ron Payne, 6-2, 310 of Alabama had a strong 2017 performance that has him flying up charts. He stacks well with the speed to pursue down the line. He can win with both speed and power and is a rising underclassmen prospect. DT Christian Wilkins, 6-4, 310 of Clemson is a powerful n explosive athlete who saw special attention at times over his career. He graded out high vs top linemen and performed well over his long career. He is a highly-regarded prospect with well-developed pass rushing technique. His ability to stack vs the top competition may earn him a rookie starting grade. DT Dre’Mont Jones, 6-3, 295 of Ohio State came on strong over the 2017 season and will decide if he gets a high grade to declare. As a redshirt sophomore he potentially carries a #1 selection if he returns. DT Maurice Hurst, 6-2, 285 of Michigan is an explosive interior defender who recognizes plays quickly and flashes power to get to the ball and finish to make tackles. He holds up well in the physical part of the game after seeing double team blocking often as an underclassman. DT Taven Bryan, 6-4, 295 of Florida was a force in the SEC in 2017. He decided to declare in December and begin his conditioning program. DT Derrick Nnadi, 6-1, 310 of Florida St was a force from the inside and projects best to the three-technique or shade role for the NFL game. He will be a prospect that is highly coveted especially from 4-3 defensive clubs. He could solidify an early selection with a strong All-star week performance at the Senior Bowl. DT Deadrin Senat, 6-1, 305 of South Florida has shown fine run stuffing ability despite facing double team blocking often on the inside. He projects to the 4-3 pro front and is a rising defender who impressed scouts during the 2017 season. His quickness and power make him a disruptive force early on the down with nice pass rushing skills.
LB Tremaine Edmunds, 6-5, 250 of Virginia Tech is a tweener defender with upside potential. His best pro position is the attack backer role for a 3-4 front. He stays clean and gets off blockers well to finish. He has the burst off the edge to make big plays. His positional versatility probably puts him high on the 3-4 clubs list of edge rushers as a game changer. LB Malik Jefferson, 6-3, 240 of Texas is a well-developed prospect who runs well with keen instincts and finishes with strong tackling that should earn him a top selection and probable early round selection if he declares. LB Roquan Smith, 6-1, 225 of Georgia is a fast playmaker with nice versatility to fill a few positions. His athleticism and playmaking abilities makes him appealing to both fronts. LB Porter Gustin, 6-5, 260 of USC flashed big play ability tin 2017. He is a fine fit for the 3-4 clubs and continues to improve with reps. LB Fred Warner, 6-4, 230 of BYU has been a leader for the tough Cougar defense. He is a tweener defender with the prototypical numbers NFL scouts love in an attack linebacker. He has been very productive in a number of roles and has the versatility to play in either pro scheme, but better suited for playing up off the edge or the Sam position. LB Joe Giles-Harris, 6-4, 230 of Duke came on strong over the 2017 season. He displays keen instincts with the quickness to get to the ball and the technique to stay clean and finish. LB Christian Miller, 6-4, 240 of Alabama is a physical Bama defender. He plays both up and down and fits the outside backer role best. He stacks the run well and shows the raw ability to push the pocket. He is capable of a strong workout. LB Uchenna Nwosu, 6-2, 240 of USC is a fast developing talent and his strong final season probably pushes him into the top rounds. He combines quickness, power, speed and ball instincts and was considered a blue-chip talent for either scheme. LB Josey Jewell, 6-2, 235 of Iowa has been a clutch performer weekly. He is a good Mike defender who fills very well inside in either scheme. He has the speed to get to the flanks with good shed and finish ability. LB Lorenzo Carter, 6-5, 245 of Georgia elevated his stock nicely in 2017. He is very instinctive and finishes with sure tackling that gives him the versatility to play a few positions especially as an edge rusher. He plays both up and down and will be scrutinized by the 3-4 clubs extensively. LB Javon Rolland-Jones, 6-4, 240 of Arkansas St shows a quick burst off the edge to make a difference. He pursues well and has learned to drop in short zone coverage. He looks to impress at the Senior Bowl. LB Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, 6-1, 235 of Oklahoma is a developed backer who plays best in space to run free to the ball. He is a leader and highly productive over his late career. He flashes striking ability and the technique to get off blockers and finish. Look for him at the Senior Bowl vs top linemen.
CB Denzel Ward, 5-10, 190 of Ohio State declared for the NFL Draft. He has the talent to be the top ranked corner with a strong offseason. CB Jaire Alexander, 5-11, 190 of Louisville is a savvy cover man who graded out high vs ACC talent. He has developed quickly in his three seasons and decided to declare in December. He has the skill set to earn a high draft grade and his playoff performances may dictate how high he goes. CB Duke Dawson, 5-11, 200 of Florida is a fast developing slot cover man who can start early in his career. He is physical and a sure tackler and capable of playing both outside and in the slot. CB Kevin Tolliver, 6-3, 205 of LSU is a big agile cover man with fine athleticism. He needs some work on reading routes, but has the raw talent to be a shutdown cover man. CB Anthony Averett, 6-0, 185 of Alabama is a nice prospect with the athleticism and the experience to be an NFL cover man. He looks to impress in the playoffs and at the Senior Bowl. CB Holton Hill, 6-2, 195 of Texas declared after a strong 2017 finish. He hopes to impress during the NFL Combine. CB Isaiah Oliver, 6-1, 195 of Colorado is a highly-regarded underclassman who impressed over the 2017 season. His strong performance as both a cover man with impact ability. He is a good leaper and matches up well vs big physical receivers. His current level of development will warrant early playing time with the skill set to be a top-flight NFL corner. CB Chris Jones, 6-0, 200 of Nebraska returned from an early season injury and helped his cause. He needs a strong postseason to move up the charts. CB Jordan Thomas, 6-0, 190 of Oklahoma is an interesting prospect with developed skills vs NFL talent in big game situations. He has responded well over the past two seasons with fast development in both zone and man schemes. He can earn an early round grade with a strong performance during the playoffs and at Senior Bowl practices. CB Joshua Jackson, 6-1, 195 of Iowa has been a chief contributor to the Hawkeyes’ season. He shows very good ball skills and the hands to make big plays. His toughness and sure tackling allows him to come up and support the run. He tackles well whether at the line or in the secondary. He has the size, agility and speed to match up with #1 receivers and is leaning towards declaring. S Derwin James, 6-3, 210 of Florida St is one of the best players in the country and declared in Decembers. He plays a few roles and may fit best at free safety after time as a corner and safety. He can be an impact performer and early pro starter. S Minkah Fitzpatrick, 6-1, 205 of Alabama is a savvy versatile defender with experience at both corner and safety. He is a smart hard tackling defender who is well developed after starting the past three seasons early as a corner and late as a safety. He can matchup with wideouts and break on the ball to make plays. S Justin Reid, 6-1, 210 of Stanford is a player on the come. He breaks on the ball well and finishes with strong jarring tackles. He is currently 50/50 related to declaring for the NFL Draft. S DeShon Elliott, 6-1, 200 of Texas came on strong in 2017 with many big plays. He moves well, reads routes quickly and has the ability to break on the ball. S Marcus Allen, 6-2, 210 of Penn St has had a very impressive 2017 season. He is capable of big plays in run support or coverage. Though he needs work on his ability to recognize routes and make quick adjustments in the transition, he has the athleticism, range and instincts to matchup with receivers. He is a well-rounded prospect with the skill set to be an every down pro defender. S Armani Watts, 5-11, 205 of Texas A&M has been consistent over his Aggie career. His week at the Senior Bowl will have to answer questions about his man coverage skills. He can a force in run support, but must prove he can cover in man situations and reads routes quickly. S Jordan Whitehead, 6-1, 185 of Pittsburgh declared in December. He moves well with a break on the ball.
Underclassmen – Top Pro Prospects Declaration date is January 15, 2018
Offensive Players
Quarterbacks
Josh Rosen UCLA
Sam Darnold Southern Cal
Josh Allen Wyoming
Lamar Jackson Louisville
Jarrett Stidham Auburn
Tanner Lee Nebraska
Running Backs
Saquon Barkley Penn State
Derrius Guice LSU
Bryce Love Stanford
Ronald Jones II Southern Cal
Kerryon Johnson Auburn
Josh Adams Notre Dame
Bo Scarbrough Alabama
Kerryon Johnson Auburn
Damien Harris Alabama
John Kelly Tennessee
Wide Receivers
Courtland Sutton SMU
Equanimeous St. Brown Notre Dame
Christian Kirk Texas A&M
Calvin Ridley Alabama
Audon Tate Florida St
Parris Campbell Ohio State
Deontay Burnett Southern Cal
Deon Cain Clemson
D.J. Moore Maryland
Simmie Cobbs Jr. Indiana
Trey Quinn Southern Methodist
Tight Ends
Mark Andrews Oklahoma
Hayden Hurst South Carolina
Offensive Linemen
Orlando Brown Oklahoma
Connor Williams Texas
Kolton Miller UCLA
Mitch Hyatt Clemson
Brian O’Neill Pittsburgh
Martez Ivey Florida
Defensive Players
Linemen
Arden Key DE LSU
Taven Bryan DT Florida
Clelin Ferrell DE Clemson
Jeff Holland DE Auburn
Da’Ron Payne DT Alabama
Zach Allen DE B.C.
Dorance Armstrong DE Kansas
Austin Bryant DE Clemson
Sam Hubbard DE Ohio St
Hercules Mata’afa DE Wash St
Tyquan Lewis DE Ohio St
Josh Sweat DE Florida St
Linebackers
Roquan Smith Georgia
Tremaine Edmunds Virginia Tech
Malik Jefferson Texas
Leighton Vander Esch Boise St
Jerome Baker Ohio State
Kendall Joseph Clemson
Joe Giles-Harris Duke
T.J. Edwards Wisconsin
Cameron Smith Southern Cal
Olasunkanmi Adeniyi Toledo
Cornerbacks
Carlton Davis Auburn
Denzel Ward Ohio State
Joshua Jackson Iowa
Jaire Alexander Louisville
Isaiah Oliver Colorado
Tarvarus McFadden Florida State
Kevin Toliver LSU
Holton Hill Texas
Quenton Meeks Stanford
Safeties
Derwin James Florida State
Minkah Fitzpatrick Alabama
DeShon Elliott Texas
Ronnie Harrison Alabama
Justin Reid Stanford
Jordan Whitehead Pittsburgh
Top 100 Pro Prospects for the NFL Draft 2018
December, 2017 – * underclassmen eligible to declare until Jan 15, 2018
Pro Prospect Pos School Ht / Wt
1 * Saquon Barkley RB Penn State 5-11 225
2 * Josh Rosen QB UCLA 6-4 220
3 * Sam Darnold QB Southern Cal 6-4 225
4 * Josh Allen QB Wyoming 6-5 235
5 Bradley Chubb DE NC State 6-4 275
6 * Derwin James S Florida State 6-3 210
7 * Orlando Brown OT Oklahoma 6-8 360
8 * Arden Key DE LSU 6-6 240
9 * Minkah Fitzpatrick S Alabama 6-1 205
10 Mike McGlinchey OT Notre Dame 6-8 315
11 * Lamar Jackson QB Louisville 6-3 200
12 * Roquan Smith LB Georgia 6-1 225
13 * Carlton Davis CB Auburn 6-1 205
14 Quenton Nelson OG Notre Dame 6-5 330
15 * Courtland Sutton WR SMU 6-4 215
16 * Connor Williams OT Texas 6-6 320
17 * Derrius Guice RB LSU 5-11 215
18 * Equanimeous St. Brown WR Notre Dame 6-5 205
19 * Denzel Ward CB Ohio State 5-10 190
20 Martinas Rankin OT Mississippi St 6-5 305
21 Christian Kirk WR Texas A&M 5-11 200
22 James Washington WR Oklahoma St 6-0 205
23 * Mark Andrews TE Oklahoma 6-5 255
24 Christian Wilkins DT Clemson 6-4 310
25 * Joshua Jackson CB Iowa 6-1 195
26 * Calvin Ridley WR Alabama 6-1 190
27 Vita Vea DT Washington 6-5 345
28 Baker Mayfield QB Oklahoma 6-0 215
30 * Taven Bryan DT Florida 6-5 295
31 Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma St 6-5 230
32 Anthony Miller WR Memphis 5-11 190
33 * Clelin Ferrell DE Clemson 6-5 265
34 Chukwuma Okorafor OT Western Michigan 6-6 330
35 Maurice Hurst DT Michigan 6-2 285
36 * Ronald Jones II RB Southern Cal 6-1 195
37 * DeShon Elliott S Texas 6-2 205
38 * Kolton Miller OT UCLA 6-8 310
39 Ogbonnia Okoronkwo LB Oklahoma 6-1 240
40 * Mitch Hyatt OT Clemson 6-5 295
41 * Tremaine Edmunds LB Virginia Tech 6-5 240
42 Derrick Nnadi DT Florida State 6-1 315
43 Tyrell Crosby OT Oregon 6-5 320
44 * Jeff Holland DE Auburn 6-2 250
45 * Jaire Alexander CB Louisville 5-11 190
46 Dorian O’Daniel LB Clemson 6-1 215
47 Harold Landry LB Boston College 6-3 250
48 Billy Price C Ohio State 6-4 310
49 * Isaiah Oliver CB Colorado 6-1 190
50 * Audon Tate WR Florida State 6-5 220
51 Uchenna Nwosu LB USC 6-2 240
52 Michael Gallup WR Colorado St 6-1 195
53 * Da’Ron Payne DT Alabama 6-2 310
54 Braden Smith OG Auburn 6-6 305
55 * Parris Campbell WR Ohio State 6-1 205
56 * Malik Jefferson LB Texas 6-3 240
57 * Zach Allen DE Boston College 6-4 275
58 * Brian O’Neill OT Pittsburgh 6-7 310
59 Will Hernandez OG Texas-El Paso 6-3 330
60 * Dorance Armstrong DE Kansas 6-4 245
61 * Austin Bryant DE Clemson 6-4 265
62 * Leighton Vander Esch LB Boise St 6-4 240
63 * Kerryon Johnson RB Auburn 6-0 215
64 Harrison Phillips DT Stanford 6-4 285
65 Josey Jewell LB Iowa 6-2 235
66 * Tarvarus McFadden CB Florida State 6-2 195
67 * Dre’Mont Jones DT Ohio State 6-3 295
68 * Kendall Joseph LB Clemson 6-0 230
69 Duke Ejiofor DE Wake Forest 6-4 270
70 Nick Chubb RB Georgia Sr 5-10 225
71 * Ronnie Harrison S Alabama 6-3 215
72 Mike Gesicki TE Penn State 6-6 255
73 Royce Freeman RB Oregon 6-0 235
74 Lorenzo Carter LB Georgia Sr 6-6 245
75 * Jerome Baker LB Ohio State 6-1 225
76 Rashaan Evans LB Alabama 6-3 235
77 Marcus Davenport DE UTSA 6-7 255
78 Ian Thomas TE Indiana 6-5 250
79 * D.J. Moore WR Maryland 5-11 210
80 Mason Cole OL Michigan 6-5 305
81 * Deon Cain WR Clemson 6-1 210
82 * Kevin Toliver CB LSU 6-3 205
83 Dallas Goedert TE South Dakota St 6-4 260
84 * Josh Adams RB Notre Dame 6-2 225
85 * Justin Reid S Stanford 6-1 205
86 * Joe Giles-Harris LB Duke 6-2 235
87 * Deontay Burnett WR Southern Cal 6-0 170
88 * T.J. Edwards LB Wisconsin 6-1 245
89 * Cameron Smith LB Southern Cal 6-2 245
90 * Sam Hubbard DE Ohio State 6-5 265
91 Marcus Allen S Penn State 6-2 205
92 * Bo Scarbrough RB Alabama 6-2 235
93 * Simmie Cobbs Jr. WR Indiana 6-4 220
94 * Martez Ivey OT Florida 6-5 315
95 Jaylen Samuels TE NC State 5-11 225
96 Marcell Ateman WR Oklahoma St 6-4 220
97 Armani Watts S Texas A&M 5-11 205
98 * Damien Harris RB Alabama 5-11 220
99 Lowell Lotulelei DT Utah 6-2 320
100 Dante Pettis WR Washington 6-1 195
Top Small College Prospects
Prospect Position School Ht. Wt
1 Dallas Goedert TE South Dakota State 6040 250
2 Jake Wieneke WR South Dakota State 6037 213
3 Brandon Parker OL North Carolina A&T 6080 315
4 Siran Neal S Jacksonville State 6010 205
5 Ebenezer Ogundeko DE Tennessee State 6030 253
6 Andrew Ankrah LB James Madison 6040 255
7 Skyler Phillips OG Idaho State 6025 318
8 Bilal Nichols DT Delaware 6040 290
9 P.J. Hall DT Sam Houston State 6010 280
10 Alex Cappa OL Humboldt State 6070 305
11 Chase Edmonds RB Fordham 5090 205
12 Darius Leonard LB South Carolina State 6010 220
13 Davontae Harris CB Illinois State 6000 200
14 Nick Deluca LB North Dakota State 6030 248
15 Jeremiah Briscoe QB Sam Houston State 6030 220
16 Mike Basile S Monmouth 6010 195
17 Jason Baxter CB South Carolina State 6010 195
18 Timon Parris OL Stony Brook 6050 317
19 Reggie Hall CB Jacksonville State 6020 200
20 Darius Jackson LB Jacksonville State 6030 240
21 Deion Harris CB North Dakota 6030 180
22 Max Redfield S Indiana (Pa) 6010 205
23 Bryan Schor QB James Madison 6020 215
24 Emmanuel Butler WR Northern Arizona 6040 220
25 Abdullah Anderson DT Bucknell 6030 295
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