NFL Calendar 2020

NFL Important  Offseason Dates
Updated  3/3/2020

February
Feb. 27-March 1 – NFL Scouting Combine Player Workouts
Feb. 24-March 2 – NFL Scouting Combine, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Feb. 25 First day for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.

March

March – early – NFL Office announces 32 Compensatory Selections for NFL Draft 2020 from 3rd thru 7th Rounds after NFL Combine

March 10 – Prior to 4:00 p.m., New York time, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.
March 16-18 – During the period beginning at 12:00 noon, New York time, on March 16 and ending at 3:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 18, 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 2019 Player Contracts at 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 18.
During the above two-day negotiating period, a prospective UFA who is not represented by an NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor is permitted to communicate directly with a new club’s front office officials (excluding the head coach and other members of the club’s coaching staff) regarding contract negotiations.
No prospective Unrestricted Free Agent is permitted to execute a contract with a new club until 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 18.
March 18 – The 2020 League Year and Free Agency period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.
The first day of the 2020 League Year will end at 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 18. 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 18.
Trading period for 2020 begins at 4:00 p.m., New York time, after expiration of all 2019 contracts.
March 29-April 1 Annual League Meeting, Palm Beach, Florida.

April
April 6 – Clubs that hired a new head coach after the end of the 2019 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.
April 17 – Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets
April 20 – Clubs with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.
April 22 – Deadline for prior club to exercise right of first refusal to restricted free agents.

April 23-25 – NFL Draft 2020, Las Vegas, Nevada.

May
May 4th – May 4th is the CBA-mandated date by which 5th Year Options must be exercised for 4th year players who were drafted in the 1st round. For the Ravens, this would be the deadline to exercise the 5th Year Option for CB Marlon Humphrey. As they did last year with OT Ronnie Stanley, it’s pretty much a no-brainer that the Ravens will exercise Humphrey’s option.

May 5th – The “May 5th Tender” date. This date, which was moved forward from June 1st a couple of years ago, is essentially the last date that the signing or losing of a free agent will count toward the Compensatory Draft pick calculation. The May 5th Tender – which rarely happens – is a way a team can potentially obtain exclusive negotiating rights with a player later in the summer. It also provides extended Compensatory pick eligibility if the player is tendered a contract of at least 110% of his prior year’s compensation by May 5th. Otherwise, if the player is not given the May 5th Tender, he no longer counts toward the Comp pick formula and the team cannot gain any special negotiating advantage later in the off season. As a practical matter, very few free agents who remain unsigned by May 5th are worth such a tender.

June
June 1st – In past years this was the last day that teams could release a player and have all of the dead money from that release count against the present year’s Salary Cap. If released after June 1st, only the present year’s bonus prorations counts against the Cap in that year and all future bonus prorations would count against the following year’s Cap.

If there is no new CBA agreed to before then, there will be no June 1 Cap relief this year.

July
July 15th – This is the deadline for signing a player who has received the Franchise or Transition tag to a long-term deal. If no long-term deal can be reached by this date, the player must play that year under the 1-year contract provided under the Franchise/Transaction Tender and cannot sign a long-term deal until after the season is over.

Late July – NFL training camps start opening.

Rookie Wide Receiver Deebo Samuel Provides Impact in Big Games
Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2019

Rookie receiver Deebo Samuel has been a major difference maker for the 49ers after being taken in Round Two last April, #36 overall.  Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him as the receiver with the best hands and one of premier playmakers in the NFL Draft 2019 class. Samuel was arguably one of the best values in the entire draft class.

Draft Insiders’ Review 2019 – June 2019
49ers Report

With their 2nd round pick, they added WR/RS Deebo Samuel, a quick versatile playmaker with fine production. He was a fine addition and brings skills as both a receiver and returner. He runs fine routes and shows very good run after the catch skills with impact ability especially in the slot with versatility as a returner.

Wide Receiver Class
Draft Insiders’ 2019 Yearbook Scouting Report – March 2019

Deebo Samuel #1 5-11 215 South Carolina – Sp. 4.45
     Player Comparison: Percy Harvin
Fast compact senior wideout/returner has been one of the most dangerous playmakers in the nation over recent seasons. Athletically gifted with deceptively strong frame and good quickness and speed to make plays consistently as a receiver, runner and returner. He got reps as a wideout, slot receiver, third down back and return specialist. When he lines up in the backfield, he ranks as one of the better 3rd down backs in this class. His return skills are amazing and can be an immediate difference maker both on punts and kickoffs. Used in a number of roles where he performs at an elite level. Very instinctive and intelligent receiver and developing quickly in running the entire route tree. Footwork is crisp and allows him to run precise routes and retain his speed well at the break point. Displays a fine burst out of his cuts to create consistent separation. Well-rounded complete athlete who is gaining a nice understanding of multiple positions to provide a very unique weapon for the pro game. Shows the instincts and feel for finding the soft spots in zone coverage and presenting a good target for the passer. Knows when he needs to come back to the throw on digs and hook routes. Always looking to run after the catch with the burst to create immediate space from defenders. Used in a number of ways, including jet sweeps, bubble screens and third down back situations. Very natural and reliable hands to extend and pluck the ball consistently. Knows how to track over the shoulder passes and displays good sideline awareness. He is both quick and fast with the suddenness in small areas to create space. As a receiver, he is a deep threat who can blow the top off a defense. Short strides allow him to cut on a dime and get behind safeties to make big plays. He handles bigger, stronger press corners and rarely is pushed off his routes. Reads coverage well and knows how to find soft spots. Needs to prove he can hold up physically working over the middle when taking a big hit. Good effort as a blocker. Dangerous as a punt returner where his short area suddenness, long speed, elusiveness and strength allow him to be dangerous every time he touches the ball. Natural runner and good at setting up blocks with the vision and awareness of a scatback to cut back against the grain. Can eat up the corner’s cushion quickly and come out of his breaks with sharp cuts and retain his top end speed to separate. Good cutting skills to change directions and maintain speed. As a runner, he has the ability to take the simple slip screen for huge gains, combining acceleration with the separation speed to run away. Athlete with highly-developed overall skill set and should be capable of contributing as rookie and playing key roles at a high level.
The Numbers: As a senior, he started each game and totaled 62 receptions for 882 yards, a 14.2 yard average and 11 TDs. Earned first team SEC honors. As a junior, he missed the season after a knee injury in the third game. Started 3 games and caught 15 passes for 250 yards, a 16.7 yard average and 3 TDs. Over his career, he had 148 receptions for 2076 yards, 16 TDs and an average of 14 yards per catch. Rushed for 154 yards on 25 carries and 7 TDs. Excellent returner and ranks with best prospects as a specialist. At the NFL Combine, he checked in at 5’11” and 214 lbs. and did 15 reps. Ran a good 4.48 time with a 39” VL and a 10’2” BJ. Added a 4.14 shuttle and 7.03 three cone. Fine positional and agility drills. Similar to NFL playmakers Percy Harvin and Randall Cobb in size, speed, running style and versatility.
The Skinny: Talented versatile playmaker with impact ability in a few roles. Developed receiving skills and best suited for the slot or 3rd down role in backfield. Top return skills and a difference maker for field position. Playmaking ability should earn him early slot time. Well-rounded athlete with speed and natural running skills with game changing ability. Game changer and marginal top 40 athlete with the talent to give an offense a boost and difference maker early.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years. He was a 20 year Scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl.

NFL Draft 2020 – First Round Mock Draft – January, 2020

* Underclassmen –   Selection order prior to Super Bowl Game

All underclassmen had until Jan. 20^th to declare for the NFL Draft 2020. Players had three days to rescind their decision and return to school and still retain their college eligibility. No players used the decision to change their initial request.

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

1st Round

#    Team              W/L          Player      Pos      Ht/WT               School
1          Cincinnati          2-14      Joe Burrow                    QB       6-4, 220            LSU
2          Washington       3-13    * Chase Young              DE       6-5, 265            Ohio St
3          Detroit               3-12-1   * A.J. Epenesa              DE       6-6, 280            Iowa
4          NY Giants         4-12      * Isaiah Simmons          OLB      6-4, 230            Clemson
5          Miami               5-11      Justin Herbert                QB       6-6, 230            Oregon
6          LA Chargers      5-11      * Tua Tagovailoa           QB       6-1, 215            Alabama
7          Carolina            5-11      * Jerry Jeudy                 WR       6-1, 195            Alabama
8          Arizona             5-10-1   * Jeffrey Okudah           CB        6-1, 200            Ohio State
9          Jacksonville      6-10      * Tristan Wirfs               OT        6-5, 320            Iowa
10         Cleveland          6-10      Derrick Brown               DT        6-5, 320            Auburn
11         NY Jets             7-9        * Andrew Thomas          OT        6-5, 320            Georgia
12         Las Vegas        7-9        * CeeDee Lamb             WR       6-2, 190            Oklahoma
13         Indianapolis      7-9        * Jedrick Wills               OT        6-5, 315            Alabama
14         Tampa Bay       7-9        * Grant Delpit                S          6-3, 210            LSU
15         Denver              7-9        Javon Kinlaw                 DT        6-6, 310            South Carolina
16         Atlanta              7-9        * Cole Kmet                  TE        6-6, 250            Notre Dame
17         Dallas               8-8        Kristian Fulton               CB        6-0, 190            LSU
18         Miami (Pittsburgh) 8-8    * Jonathan Taylor     RB        5-11, 220          Wisconsin
19         Las Vegas (Chic) 8-8     * K’Lavon Chaisson      OLB      6-4, 240            LSU
20         Jacksonville (Rams) 9-7 * Jake Fromm             QB       6-2, 220            Georgia
21         Philadelphia      9-7        * Tee Higgins                 WR       6-4, 205            Clemson
22         Buffalo             10-6      * Laviska Shenault         WR       6-2, 225            Colorado
23         New England    12-4      Raekwon Davis             DT        6-7, 310            Alabama
24         New Orleans     13-3      * Xavier McKinney         S          6-1, 200            Alabama
25         Minnesota         10-6      * C.J. Henderson           CB        6-1, 190            Florida
26         Miami (Houston) 10-6    * Mekhi Becton           OT        6-6, 355            Louisville
27         Seattle              11-5      * J.K. Dobbins                  RB        5-10, 220          Ohio State
28         Baltimore          14-2      * D’Andre Swift              RB        5-9, 215            Georgia
29         Tennessee        9-7       Tyler Biadasz                   C          6-3, 320            Wisconsin
30         Green Bay        13-3      * Justin Jefferson          WR       6-1, 190            LSU
31         Kansas City      12-4      Marlon Davidson           DE       6-3, 275            Auburn
32         San Francisco   13-3      * Henry Ruggs              WR       6-0, 190            Alabama

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years. He was a 20 year Scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl.

Senior Bowl 2020 Game Day

Frank Coyle – Head scout Draft Insiders’

The 2020 Senior Bowl game is here with an interesting roster of pro prospects who completed the week of practices, physicals and interviews.

        The Draft Insiders’ February Newsletter and 2020 Yearbook will have extensive coverage of the Senior Bowl and the entire All-star postseason.

Look for QBs Justin Hebert, Jordan Love and Jalen Hurts to get extensive playing time while wideouts Michael Pittman, Chase Claypool and James Proche are expected to be featured in the passing game. TEs Brycen Hopkins and Adam Tautman had impressive practice sessions and could be featured in the passing game.

Runners, Lamical Perine, Antonio Gibson and Ke’Shawn Vaughn may not be household names, but should be featured here and given a chance to display their natural talent and capable of being impact playmakers Saturday. Perine is a well rounded back who can be a difference maker here.

The NFL Draft 2020 is a class dominated by defensive front seven prospects and this game features several impact pass rushers. DT Javon Kinlaw of South Carolina had a dominant performance thru mid week, but will sit out the game due to a minor injury.  Marlon Davidson is primed for a huge effort and created continuous havoc in matchups. Look for edge rushers, Jason Strowbridge and Kenny Willekes to provide impact as outside rushers and possible difference makers in this game.

Linebackers, Malik Harrison, Evan Weaver and Anfernee Jennings showed speed, instincts and playmaking ability this week after fine careers. Look to them to be in the action throughout the contest to be the stars on their units. This will be the final real football action in these prospects for the year with the offseason workout portion of the NFL Draft process hitting full stride next week both with the NFL Combine and school Pro Days.

Senior Bowl Players to Watch

Offensive Players

Justin    Herbert                 QB          Oregon                 6061       227
Jalen      Hurts                     QB          Oklahoma           6010       218
Jordan  Love                      QB          Utah St.                 6035       223

Lamical Perine                 RB        Florida              5106     211
Antonio Gibson               RB        Memphis           6004     223
Ke’Shawn Vaughn           RB        Vanderbilt         5094     205

Michael Pittman, Jr.        WR         USC                        6037       219
Chase    Claypool               WR         Notre Dame       6043       229
Collin     Johnson              WR         Texas                    6056       221
James   Proche                  WR         SMU                      5105       196
Van        Jefferson             WR         Florida                  6014       197
Jauan    Jennings              WR         Tennessee          6030       206
Denzel  Mims                     WR         Baylor                   6026       206

Brycen  Hopkins               TE           Purdue                 6036       241
Adam    Trautman            TE           Dayton                 6050       251

Josh       Jones                      OL           Houston               6051       311
Lloyd     Cushenberry III    OL           LSU                        6032       312

Defensive Players

Javon Kinlaw                    DL           South Carolina   605        315    Injured
Marlon Davidson             DL           Auburn                 6032       297
Neville  Gallimore            DL           Oklahoma           6020       304
Jason     Strowbridge       DL           North Carolina   6042       267
Kenny   Willekes               DL           Michigan St.       6036       252

Malik     Harrison               LB           Ohio St.                 6025       246
Evan      Weaver                 LB           California             6021       234
Anfernee Jennings          LB           Alabama                 6017       252
Logan    Wilson                  LB           Utah                      6021       241
Terrell   Lewis                     LB           Alabama              6052       258

Darnay  Holmes                 CB           UCLA                     5101       192
Tony      Pride, Jr.               CB           Notre Dame       5113       193

Jeremy Chinn                    S              Southern Illinois 6031     219
Kyle Dugger                        S              Lenoir Rhyme      511       217

Tyler      Bass                       K             Georgia Southern 5100  183
Joseph  Charlton               P             South Carolina   6042       194

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years. He was a 20 year Scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl.

NFL Office Announces 99 Players Granted Special Eligibility For NFL Draft 2020

16 additional players who graduated and eligible

The National Football League announced the names of 99 players who have been granted special eligibility for the 2020 NFL Draft and 16 players who have fulfilled their degree requirements with college football eligibility remaining and are also eligible for selection in the April 23-25 draft in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Draft Insiders’ will have extensive Underclassmen reports in both upcoming Newsletters and the 2020 NFL Draft Yearbook.

The following 16 players have in timely fashion under NFL rules officially notified the league office that they have fulfilled their degree requirements.  Consequently, they are eligible for selection:

Player /Position/ College
1 Benjamin, Eno RB Arizona State
2 Betiku, Oluwole DE Illinois
3 Cushenberry, Lloyd C Louisiana State
4 Davis, Quartney WR Texas A&M
5 Gilman, Alohi DB Notre Dame
6 Hennessy, Matt C Temple
7 Holmes, Darnay DB UCLA
8 Ismael, Keith C San Diego State
9 Johnson, Jaylon DB Utah
10 Jones, Tony RB Notre Dame
11 Lewis, Terrell LB Alabama
12 Love, Jordan QB Utah State
13 Lumor, Elorm DE Rutgers
14 Miller, Houston DE Texas Tech
15 Murray, Kenneth LB Oklahoma
16 Simmons, Isaiah  LB Clemson

Each of the 99 players listed below have met the league’s three-year eligibility rule and have renounced their college football eligibility by submitting written notification to the league office on or before the January 17 deadline.  Consequently, they are eligible for selection:

The players granted special eligibility for the 2020 NFL Draft:

Player /Position /College
1 Ahmed, Salvon RB Washington
2 Akers, Cam RB Florida State
3 Arnold, Grayland DB Baylor
4 Asiasi, Devin TE UCLA
5 Bandy, Trajan DB Miami (Fla.)
6 Becton, Mekhi T Louisville
7 Biadasz, Tyler C Wisconsin
8 Blacklock, Ross DT Texas Christian
9 Bowden, Lynn WR Kentucky
10 Brown, Marcus DE Missouri Western
11 Bryant, Hunter TE Washington
12 Cephus, Quintez WR Wisconsin
13 Chaisson, K’Lavon LB Louisiana State
14 Charles, Saahdiq T Louisiana State
15 Cleveland, Ezra T Boise State
16 Coe, Nick DE Auburn
17 Colon-Castillo, Trystan C Missouri
18 Coulter, Isaiah WR Rhode Island
19 Curl, Kamren DB Arkansas
20 Dallas, DeeJay RB  Miami (Fla.)
21 Dantzler, Cameron DB Mississippi State
22 Davis, Gabriel WR Central Florida
23 Davis, Kyle WR Florida Atlantic
24 Delpit, Grant DB Louisiana State
25 Dillon, AJ RB Boston College
26 Dobbins, J.K. RB Ohio State
27 Eason, Jacob QB Washington
28 Edwards-Helaire, Clyde RB Louisiana State
29 Elliott, Jordan DT Missouri
30 Epenesa, A.J. DE Iowa
31 Evans, Darrynton RB Appalachian State
32 Fromm, Jake QB Georgia
33 Garvin, Jonathan DE Miami (Fla.)
34 Gay, Willie LB Mississippi State
35 Gross-Matos, Yetur DE Penn State
36 Guerriero, Pete RB Monmouth, N.J.
37 Guidry, Javelin DB Utah
38 Hamler, K.J. WR Penn State
39 Hand, Harrison DB Temple
40 Henderson, C.J. DB Florida
41 Higgins, Tee WR Clemson
42 Hodgins, Isaiah WR Oregon State
43 Igbinoghene, Noah DB Auburn
44 Jackson, Austin T  Southern California
45 Jackson, Trishton WR  Syracuse
46 Jefferson, Justin WR Louisiana State
47 Jeudy, Jerry WR Alabama
48 Keene, Dalton TE Virginia Tech
49 Kindley, Solomon G Georgia
50 Kmet, Cole TE Notre Dame
51 Lamb, CeeDee WR Oklahoma
52 Leake, Javon RB Maryland
53 Lynch, James DT  Baylor
54 Madubuike, Justin DT  Texas A&M
55 McDonald, Cole QB Hawaii
56 McFarland, Anthony RB Maryland
57 McKinney, Xavier DB Alabama
58 Moss, Thaddeus TE Louisiana State
59 Muti, Netane T Fresno State
60 Newman, Tomas DB Virginia-Lynchburg
61 Okudah, Jeff DB Ohio State
62 Okwuegbunam, Albert TE Missouri
63 Parkinson, Colby TE Stanford
64 Peoples-Jones, Donovan WR Michigan
65 Phillips, Jacob LB Louisiana State
66 Pierre, James DB Florida Atlantic
67 Queen, Patrick LB Louisiana State
68 Reagor, Jalen WR Texas Christian
69 Renfro, Debione DB Texas A&M
70 Robertson, Amik DB Louisiana Tech
71 Robinson, Kenny DB West Virginia
72 Rogers, Kendrick WR Texas A&M
73 Ruggs, Henry WR Alabama
74 Ruiz, Cesar C Michigan
75 Salomon, Darnell WR South Florida
76 Samuels, Stanford DB Florida State
77 Scott, Josiah DB Michigan State
78 Shenault, Laviska WR Colorado
79 Siposs, Arryn P Auburn
80 Stone, Geno DB Iowa
81 Swift, D’Andre RB Georgia
82 Tagovailoa, Tua QB Alabama
83 Taylor, Jonathan RB Wisconsin
84 Taylor, Tabyus RB Virginia Union
85 Terrell, A.J. DB Clemson
86 Thomas, Andrew T Georgia
87 Thomas, Jeff WR Miami (Fla.)
88 Turk, Michael P Arizona State
89 Warren, Michael RB Cincinnati
90 Watkins, Quez WR Southern Mississippi
91 Weaver, Curtis DE Boise State
92 White, Cody WRMichigan State
93 Wills, Jedrick T Alabama
94 Wilson, Isaiah T Georgia
95 Winfield, Antoine DB Minnesota
96 Wirfs, Tristan T Iowa
97 Woodward, David LB Utah State
98 Young, Chase DE Ohio State
99 Young, Toren RB Iowa

The following players inquired about their draft status and are eligible for selection without the need for special eligibility:
Player /Position /School
1 McClease, Deshawn RB Virginia Tech
2 Strickland, Carlos WR Texas-San Antonio
3 Taylor, J.J. RB Arizona
4 Williams, Ty’Son  RB Brigham Young
5 Uche, Josh LB Michigan

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The Reese’s Senior Bowl Week 2020

Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions Coaching Staffs Head 2020 Senior Bowl

The Reese’s Senior Bowl week 2020 is here. The Senior Bowl is the nation’s most prestigious college all-star game because it is the only one coached by entire staffs from two National Football League clubs.  The participating teams are prioritized based on the NFL draft order with the main caveat being that teams must have a full staff in place, which generally precludes teams with coaching turnover to participate. The Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions coaching staffs will participate this season. The coaching staffs get a hands on view of 50 players per team on a regimented practice schedule and personal coaching providing valuable insight to a player’s athleticism, aptitude and readiness for the NFL game.

For Updated Senior Bowl 2020 rosters
https://www.seniorbowl.com/the-game/accepted-invites/

 2020 Senior Bowl Practice Schedule

 Monday
Weigh-in – 10 am – all players

Tuesday
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (SOUTH)
3:00 pm – 4:300 pm (NORTH)
 
Wednesday
12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (NORTH)
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm (SOUTH)

Thursday
12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (NORTH)
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm (SOUTH)

 * All Practices Open to Public at Ladd-Peebles Stadium

Senior Bowl Game 2020

Ladd-Peebles Stadium
DATE: Saturday, January 25, 2020
TIME: 1:30pm CT
WHERE: Mobile, Alabama
STADIUM: Ladd-Peebles Stadium (38,888)
TELEVISION: NFL Network
TICKETS: $30, $20, $10
NFL All-Rookie Team
 
 Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Senior Bowl 2020 Accepted Player Invitations

https://www.seniorbowl.com/the-game/accepted-invites/

 Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions Named Coaching Staffs Head 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl

 The Reese’s Senior Bowl is less than two weeks away and the rosters are filling quickly.

They announced earlier that the NFL League Office has assigned the Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions as the coaching staffs for the 71st annual Reese’s Senior Bowl to be played on January 25, 2020 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Alabama.  The Bengals and Lions own the Nos. 1 and 3 picks respectively in the 2020 NFL Draft.

 For the Complete All-star Game Schedule go to NFL 2020 Calendar and Dates under NFL News

 The Reese’s Senior Bowl is the nation’s most prestigious college all-star game because it is the only one coached by entire staffs from two National Football League clubs.  The participating teams are prioritized based on the NFL draft order with the main caveat being that teams must have a full staff in place, which generally precludes teams with coaching turnover to participate, as was the case this year with the Washington Redskins, who own the No. 2

The last time the Bengals coached the Reese’s Senior Bowl was 2011 under Marvin Lewis and the Lions last participated in 2013 when Jim Schwartz was the head coach.

Coaching in the Reese’s Senior Bowl gives each staff a unique behind-the-scenes look at the players, not only on the field but also in the meeting rooms. This access is invaluable in the evaluation process and it has helped shape many draft classes over the years.  The most recent example is this year’s Oakland Raiders, who had eight Reese’s Senior Bowl alums on the active roster or practice squad this season.

 Last year, the Reese’s Senior Bowl produced 93 total draft picks, including 40 in the first three rounds and 10 first-round selections.  That roster included rookie standouts QB Daniel Jones (Giants), QB Drew Lock (Broncos), QB Gardner Minshew (Jaguars), WR Terry McLaurin (Redskins), WR Deebo Samuel (49ers), OL Elgton Jenkins (Packers), OL Erik McCoy (Saints), DL Montez Sweat (Redskins), DB Darnell Savage (Packers).

 Draft Insiders’ will have extensive scouting evaluation from the Senior Bowl and in the early February Newsletter and Yearbook.

 Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Rookie Wide Receiver DK Metcalf Shines in Big Games
Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2019

Rookie receiver DK Metcalf has been a major difference maker for the Seahawks after being taken as the last player chosen in Round Two last April, #64 overall. Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him the #1 receiver in the NFL Draft 2019 class. Incredibly, Metcalf was the 9^th receiver taken off the NFL Draft 2019 board and arguably the best value in the entire draft class. He faces the Packers in Green Bay Sunday in the NFC Divisional round.

Wide Receiver Class
Draft Insiders’ 2019 Yearbook Scouting Report – March 2019

 1 * DK Metcalf #14           6-3        225  –  Mississippi  – Sp. 4.35
Player Comparison: David Boston                        Rating 90

Smooth sure handed redshirt sophomore has shown elite receiving skills during his abbreviated career at Ole Miss. Blue chip prospect and a specimen that defines the position. He has rare physical talent in the mold of Calvin Johnson, Terrell Owens or Julio Jones. Unfortunately, he struggled through a few major injuries during his time in the SEC and though he was productive, did not live up to his unique athleticism. Consensus Freshman 1st-Team All-American. Deceptively fast on deeper routes and has the fluidity as a route-runner to separate from coverage at the route stem. Long arms with good lean muscle development and fine functional strength. Big play presence which backs up his workout warrior numbers. On the field, he looks like a chiseled strong forward and plays up to his all-around wide receiver talent. His field speed is even more impressive than his track speed where his long stride is deceiving. He runs crisp and precise routes and is outstanding at creating separation coming out of his breaks. He does extremely well at using nuanced body language, as well as ability to change speed, to set up defensive backs. His hands are soft, strong, and natural. He can seamlessly pluck the ball at full extension, whether using one or two hands. He makes the acrobatic or contested catch with regularity, but also the routine ones to move the chains. In the clutch situations on 3rd down or in the red zone, he rarely drops passes.  Shows explosiveness and elusiveness after the catch with quick footwork to create space. With the ball, he is tough after the catch with the speed to run away from or the power to overrun defenders. Outstanding hand-eye coordination and able to elevate and high point the ball. Reads zone coverage well and knows how to find and settle in the soft spots. Able to maintain concentration on making the catch and tapping his toes in bounds at the sidelines. Very alert to work his way back to the passer. High character individual who is well respected and liked. Committed to the program and willing to sacrifice for the team. Honest effort as a blocker both in the run game and in the secondary for his fellow receivers.

The Numbers:  As a sophomore, he caught just 26 passes for 569 yards for a 21.9 average and 5 TDs while starting 7 games. As a freshman, he started 12 games and had 39 catches for 646 yards with a 16.8 yard average and 7 TDs. For his career, he totaled 67 catches for 1228 yards and 14 scores. At the NFL Combine, he came in at over 6’3” and 228 lbs. with 34 7/8” arms and 9 7/8” hands. He did 27 reps and ran 4.33 time and had a 40.5” VL and 11’2” BJ with a 4.50 short shuttle and 7.38 three cone. It was an excellent workout. Similar to former #1 pick David Boston in physique, athleticism and limited production. Also similar to wideout Julio Jones in size, speed, body type and AA. Son of former NFL guard Terrace Metcalf and grandson of for Pro Bowl runner Terry Metcalf.

The Skinny:  Highly developed young receiver with rare playmaking ability to be a weapon both outside and inside. Tough athlete will go over the middle. Top 20 prospect and could go earlier in the round with the demand at the position. Huge ceiling as an NFL wideout, but also a low floor and more a chiseled athlete then a refined receiver. Injury prone blue-chip prospect will have to prove durable in the pro game. Prior neck and foot injuries. Talent to start as a rookie in the right situation. Big playmaker with the skills to bring it all together and have a Pro Bowl career, if committed to the rigors of NFL life and the finer points of the position.

Draft Projection: 1st Round

NFL Draft 2020 – First Round Mock Draft – January, 2020

 All underclassmen have until Jan. 20^th to declare for the NFL Draft 2020. Players then have three days to rescind their decision and return to school and retain their college eligibility.

Exact draft order to be determined at close of the postseason

* Underclassmen expected to declare for the NFL Draft 2020

1st Round

#  Team                W/L      Player                 Pos      Ht/WT         School
1   Cincinnati          2-14      Joe Burrow             QB       6-4, 220            LSU
2  Washington       3-13      * Chase Young        DE       6-5, 265           Ohio St
3  Detroit               3-12-1   * Jeffrey Okudah     CB        6-1, 200          Ohio St
4 NY Giants         4-12      * Andrew Thomas     OT        6-5, 320         Georgia
5 Miami               5-11      Justin Herbert            QB       6-6, 230           Oregon
6 LA Chargers      5-11      * Jerry Jeudy             WR       6-1, 195           Alabama
7  Carolina            5-11      * Tua Tagovailoa       QB       6-1, 215            Alabama
8  Arizona             5-10-1   * A.J. Epenesa          DE       6-6, 280           Iowa
9 Jacksonville      6-10      Derrick Brown          DT        6-5, 320          Auburn
10 Cleveland          6-10      * Tristan Wirfs        OT        6-5, 320           Iowa
11  NY Jets             7-9        * CeeDee Lamb        WR       6-2, 190          Oklahoma
12 Las Vegas        7-9        * Grant Delpit             S          6-3, 210           LSU
13 Indianapolis      7-9        * Jedrick Willis       OT        6-5, 315           Alabama
14 Tampa Bay       7-9        * Jonathan Taylor   RB        5-11, 220          Wisconsin
15 Denver              7-9        * Jake Fromm          QB       6-2, 220             Georgia
16 Atlanta              7-9        * Paulson Adebo      CB        6-1, 190             Stanford
17 Dallas               8-8        * Xavier McKinney    S          6-1, 200            Alabama
18 Miami (Pitt) 8-8    * Yetur Gross-Matos      DE       6-5, 265             Penn State
19 Las Vegas (Chicago) 8-8 * Laviska Shenault   WR       6-2, 225       Colorado
20 Jacksonville (Rams) 9-7  * D’Andre Swift       RB        5-9, 215        Georgia
21 Philadelphia      9-7        Kristian Fulton           CB        6-0, 190          LSU
22 Buffalo             10-6      * Isaiah Simmons        OLB      6-4, 225         Clemson
23 New England    12-4      Julian Okwara            OLB      6-5, 240         Notre Dame
24 New Orleans     13-3      * Cole Kmet                 TE        6-6, 250          Notre Dame
25 Tennessee        9-7        Raekwon Davis            DT        6-7, 310           Alabama
26 Minnesota         10-6      * Walker Little            OT        6-7, 315           Stanford
27 Miami (Houston) 10-6  * K’Lavon Chaisson   OLB      6-4, 240          LSU
28 Seattle              11-5      * Henry Ruggs              WR       6-0, 190           Alabama
29 Kansas City      12-4      * Travis Etienne           RB        5-10, 215         Clemson
30 Green Bay        13-3      * Tee Higgins                WR       6-4, 205          Clemson
31  San Francisco   13-3      * C.J. Henderson        CB        6-1, 190           Florida
32 Baltimore          14-2      * J.K. Dobbins              RB        5-10, 220       Ohio State

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years. He was a 20-year Scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl.

NFL Draft 2020 – First Round Order
Bengals hold #1 Overall Selection

Redskins, Lions, Giants & Dolphins Complete Top 5 Selections

Dolphins Hold Three #1 Selections,
Raiders and Jaguars Hold Two #1 Draft Choices

NFL Draft 2020 – First-round Order – Dec 31, 2019
  #     Team              W/L     Strength of Schedule

1 Cincinnati                2-14    .553
2 Washington            3-13    .502
3 Detroit                     3-12-1 .506
4 NY Giants               4-12    .473
5 Miami                      5-11    .484
6 LA Chargers           5-11    .514
7 Carolina                  5-11    .549
8 Arizona                   5-10-1 .529
9 Jacksonville           6-10    .484
10 Cleveland             6-10    .533
11 NY Jets                  7-9      .473
12 Las Vegas             7-9      .482
13 Indianapolis        7-9      .492
14 Tampa Bay          7-9      .500
15 Denver                 7-9      .510
16 Atlanta                 7-9      .545
17 Dallas                   8-8      .479
18 Miami (Pittsburgh)           8-8      .502
19 Las Vegas (Chicago)          8-8    .508
20 Jacksonville (LA Rams)   9-7           .535
21 Philadelphia                        9-7      .455
22 Tennessee                           9-7      .488
23 Buffalo                                10-6    .461
24 Minnesota                         10-6    .477
25 Miami (Houston)             10-6          .520
26 Seattle                                11-5    .531
27 New England                    12-4    .469
28 Kansas City                       12-4    .510
29 Green Bay                         13-3    .453
30 New Orleans                    13-3    .486
31 San Francisco                  13-3    .504
32 Baltimore                         14-2    .494