Draft Insiders’ and Coaches Top 25 Teams – Week Twelve

  Frank Coyle – Head Scout

Bama Shuts Out Mississippi St
Georgia Beats Auburn

Players of Week
Offense – WR Tylan Wallace – Oklahoma St
Defense – Alabama defense with 2^nd consecutive shutout vs Mississippi St.

Team of the Week – Georgia beats Auburn
Upset of the Week – Tennessee beats Kentucky 24-7

Games of Week Twelve –
Notre Dame (10-0) vs Syracuse (8-2) at Yankee Stadium, New York City
 

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Top 25 Teams – Week Twelve
Draft Insiders’

Rank/ Team/ Record
1 Alabama – 10-0
2 Clemson – 10-0
3 Notre Dame – 10-0
4 Georgia – 9-1
5 Michigan – 9-1
6 UCF   – 9-0
7 Oklahoma – 9-1
8 West Virginia – 8-1
9 Ohio St – 9-1
10 Washington St – 9-1
11 LSU – 8-2
12 Utah St – 9-1
13 Syracuse – 8-2
14 Kentucky –   7-3
15 Texas – 7-3
16 Washington – 7-3
17 Florida – 7-3
18 Cincinnati – 9-1
19 Iowa St – 6-3
20 Penn State – 7-3
21 Boise St – 8-2
22 Boston College – 7-3
23 Utah – 7-3
24 Northwestern – 6-4
25 UAB – 9-1

Coaches Top 25 Poll

Rank/ Team / Record / Points
1 Alabama (64)  10-0      1624
2 Clemson (1)    10-0      1561
3 Notre Dame    10-0      1490
4 Michigan        9-1        1415
5 Georgia          9-1        1369
6 Oklahoma      9-1        1273
7 West Virginia  8-1        1173
8 Ohio State      9-1        1135
9 Washington State       9-1        1119
10 LSU 8-2        1078
11 UCF 9-0        1042
12 Syracuse      8-2        849
13 Utah State    9-1        698
14 Texas           7-3        662
15 Penn State   7-3        646
16 Florida         7-3        604
17 Washington  7-3        591
18 Iowa State    6-3        403
19 Utah 7-3        387
20 Cincinnati     9-1        383
21 Kentucky      7-3        318
22 Boston College         7-3        309
23 Mississippi State      6-4        219
24 Boise State  8-2        129
25 UAB 9-1        102

Dropped from rankings: Fresno State 17, NC State 22
Others receiving votes: Northwestern 87, Fresno State 64, Army 58, Buffalo 56, Virginia 44, Duke 38, NC State 37, Pittsburgh 30, Texas A&M 29, Michigan State 20, Auburn 19, Troy 17, Appalachian State 14, Missouri 13, San Diego State 10, Wisconsin 7, Arizona State 2, Tennessee 1

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.

NFL Power Poll – Week 9

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll –
Rams Face Saints in Key NFC Matchup
Brady vs Rodgers in Sunday Night Classic

Teams of the Week –
    Saints over Vikings, 30-20
Rams over Packers, 29-27
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – RB Todd Gurley – Rams     
  Defense – DE JJ Watt – Texans
 
Rookies of Week
    QB – Josh Rosen – Cards
    DE – Marcus Davenport – Saints

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Games of Week #9 –

LA Rams (8-0) at New Orleans Saints (6-1)  
Hot Saints host the unbeaten Rams in major NFC Matchup
LA Chargers (5-2) at Seattle Seahawks (4-3)
Vital game for both West divisional playoff contenders

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -8-0 Rams
Rams’ learning how to win tight games weekly in crunch time. Face acid test in New Orleans.

#2 – 7-1 Chiefs
Chiefs go to Cleveland for a tougher matchup that many think.

#3 – 7-1 Saints
Saints’ won another tough road test in Minnesota. Host the unbeaten Rams this week which determines NFC leadership.

#4 – 6-2 Patriots
Pats host the Packers in a classic matchup of QBs, Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers.

#5 – 5-2 Chargers
Chargers face the 12^th man in Seattle in one of the best games of the week.

#6 – 5-2 Panthers
Panthers are coming off victories over the Eagles and Ravens. Host the Bucs Sunday.

#7 – 4-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ travel to Baltimore for their annual bloodbath with the Ravens.

#8 – 5-3 Texans
Texans’ are quietly gaining momentum. Go to Mile High for key AFC matchup.

#9 – 4-3-1 Vikings
Vikings overrated defense came up short again in a big spot vs the Saints.

#10 – 5-3 Bengals
Bengals’ edged out a win vs the Bucs. Bye week before important 2^nd half run.

#11 – 4-4 Ravens
Ravens host the Steelers this week in maybe the best rivalry in the league.

#12 – 5-2 Redskins
The Redskins are learning how to win. Host Atlanta in one of the interesting matchups this week.

#13 – 4-3 Seahawks
Seahawks face the tough two LA teams over the next two weeks that may determine their playoff hopes.

#14 – 4-4 Eagles
Eagles get their bye and look to make a run with a heavy NFC schedule over the 2nd half.

#15 – 3-3-1 Packers
The Packers keep coming up short despite QB Aaron Rodger’s heroics.

#16 – 4-3 Bears
The Bears travel to Buffalo with a chance to stay atop the competitive NFC North.

#17 – 3-4 Lions
Lions face two North road games with Vikings and Bears that will determine if they are contenders or pretenders.

#18 – 4-4 Dolphins
Dolphins host the Jets in almost a must win contest to stay in playoff hunt.

#19 – 3-4 Falcons
Falcons coming off their bye with two road games in Washington and Cleveland on the schedule.

#20 – 3-4 Cowboys
The Cowboys are coming off their bye and must get to .500 to get into NFC playoff contention.

#21 – 3-4 Titans
The Titans are rested for their trip to Big D which may determine the fate of both clubs.

#22 – 3-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lost again this time to the Eagles. Get their bye week to regroup for stretch run.

#23- 3-5 Broncos
Broncos are coming up short in big spots. Host the hot Texans in a must win situation to stay alive in AFC playoffs.

#24 – 3-4 Bucs
Bucs go back to vet QB Fitzpatrick after an extended horrible streak by QB Jameis Winston.

#25 – 2-5-1 Browns
Browns finally fired HC Hue Jackson after a 3-37-1 stretch, one of the worst in NFL history.

#26 – 3-5 Jets
Jets’ travel to Miami after a weak performance in Chicago.

#27 – 3-5 Colts
Colts beat the Raiders behind another strong Andrew Luck performance.

#28 – 2-6 Bills
Bills change to backup QB Nate Peterman while hoping for rookie QB Josh Allen’s return.

#29 – 2-6 Cardinals
Cardinals edged out a victory over the 49ers. Get their bye this week.

#30 – 1-7 Giants
The Giants have just begun a complete rebuild. Roster lacks talent and depth after years of poor draft classes by ex GM Jerry Reese.

#31 – 1-7 49ers
The 49ers are favorite in this ‘Bay of Pigs’ classic.

#32 – 1-7 Raiders
Da Raiders were toasted by the Colts in their last embarrassment.

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 20 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

Draft Insiders’ – Midseason 2018 All-American Team

 Frank Coyle

Offense

QB – Tua Tagovailoa – Alabama
RB – Benny Snell – Kentucky
RB – Jonathan Taylor – Wisconsin
WR – Marquise Brown – Oklahoma
WR – Jerry Jeudy – Alabama
TE – Noah Fant – Iowa
OL – Jonah Williams – Alabama
OL – Dalton Risner – Kansas St
OL – Mitch Hyatt – Clemson
OL – Michael Dieter – Wisconsin
OC – Ross Piershbacher – Alabama
All-Purpose Athlete – Deebo Samuel – South Carolina

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Defense

DE – Clelin Ferrell – Clemson
DT – Ed Oliver – Houston
DT – Jerry Tillery – Notre Dame
DE – Montez Sweat – Mississippi St
LB – Josh Allen – Kentucky
LB – Devin Bush – Florida St
LB – Devin White – LSU
CB – Greedy Williams – LSU
CB – Deandre Baker – Georgia
FS – Taylor Rapp – Washington
SS – Deionte Thompson – Alabama

Special Teams

R/S – Mecole Hardman – Georgia
PK – Andre Szmyt – Syracuse
P – Braden Mann – Texas A&M

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – RB Saquon Barkley – Giants

Frank Coyle

Each week Draft Insiders’ will do a Rookie spotlight and post their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. Scouting Reports are written from the fall into March annually.

Week 6 showcased the top rookie running back Saquon Barkley of the Giants. He has started since day one and been one of the few bright spots during the GMen’s dismal 1-5 season.

He brings the most completed back to the game in years and new energy and life to a lackluster offense. Despite a weak offensive line, Barkley has rushed for 428 yards for a 5.2 yard average along with 40 receptions for 373 yards and 6 TDs. He has been dramatic and impressive despite special attention on virtually every play. His numbers are on pace for both a 1000 yard rushing and receiving performance which would be a first in NFL annals.

He has uncanny instincts with quick decision making and footwork that allows him to move and create situations and extend plays. He displayed rare composure in a pressure packed situation Thursday night vs the Eagles where he displayed big play ability as both a runner and receiver.
He was the #1 running back selected from a very deep class and the #2 overall choice behind only QB Baker Mayfield. He gives Giant fans hope during a frustrating period where the changing roster is in

We compared him to LaDainian Tomlinson in talent, mobility and leadership which emerged dramatically over his Penn St career and postseason prior to the NFL Draft 2018.
 
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2018 Running Backs Class – Grade: A
      Positional Overview:
 This year’s running back position is an excellent group with a super blue-chip junior in Saquon Barkley at the top of the class. Barkley is a premier NFL feature back who can be an elite pro player early in his career. We rank him higher than Zeke Elliott or Leonard Fournette both of whom were difference makers from their first season.

Running Backs
1 Saquon Barkley #26 – Penn St          6-0       230 – Sp. 4.45              
        Player Comparison: LaDainian Tomlinson                  Rating 95       
Dynamic powerful junior is the most physically gifted back to arrive in the NFL since Adrian Peterson. Strong compact frame with very quick feet and the explosive burst to go the distance from anywhere on the field. The complete package to become a top NFL feature back with rare skills to be an instant impact three down player as a rookie. Difference maker the past two seasons at Penn St. and produced impressive numbers despite weekly special attention in the Big Ten. Earned first team Big Ten his final two seasons. Great team leader with smarts, instincts and leadership. Possesses an ideal NFL body with a well-developed muscular frame with the natural ability to drop his pads and square up when attacking the line. Shows great lateral quickness with the burst to get outside consistently and go the distance. Displays the initial burst to hit an opening with the cutting skills of a smaller back and the power to break and bounce off tacklers. Very good lower body strength (squats 600 lbs.+) to run through tacklers and carry a big load weekly. As a runner, shows natural vision and balance with the power and toughness to consistently get the most of each attempt. Reads his initial blocks very well with a feel for finding an opening with the speed to hit a hole and run away from defenders. Patient runner allows play to unfold with the burst to create. Faced eight in a box often and put up huge numbers vs Big Ten talent in key games with conference and national impact. Shows the power to run through creases with rare lateral quickness and long speed to stick-and-go out of his cuts. Displays the patience to follow blockers and the ability to shift his weight very well and string multiple moves together. Soft hands as a receiver out of the backfield and capable of a big play in space where his speed and power are a dangerous combination. Strong hands to protect the ball well. Needs work on his blocking especially in blitz situations. Shows the toughness and athleticism to face up with backers, but needs the practice time to progress in that key area. Good route running and defense recognition. Elite combination of speed and power to provide early impact as a pro feature runner. Very strong lower body with good straight arm and can sink his hips and explode to come downhill. Extremely tough to tackle inline or in space. Sets up cut-back lanes exceptionally well with the body lean to get much yardage after contact.

The Numbers:  As a junior, he started 13 games and rushed for 1271 yards on 217 carries for a 5.9 average and 18 TDs. He added 54 receptions for 632 yards and 3 TDs. For the 2016 season, he started 14 games and rushed for 1496 yards on 272 attempts for 5.5 yard average and 18 TDs. He added 28 receptions for 402 yards and 4 TDs. As a freshman in 2015, he rushed for 1076 yards on 182 carries for a 5.9 average and 7 TDs and added 20 receptions for 161 yards and 1 TD. Over his career, he rushed for 3843 yards on 671 attempts for a fine 5.7 average and 43 TDs plus totaled 102 receptions for 1195 yards and 8 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 6’ and 233 lbs. and ran a 4.40 time. He did 29 reps in the lifting with a 41” VL and a 4.24 shuttle. In the mold of premier breakaway power backs like LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson and Zeke Elliott in body type and style, he is similar yet superior to Todd Gurley with the speed and power to be the best in the game. Major early impact weapon.

The Skinny:  Fast physical downhill thumper with the long speed to be a game breaker. Rookie impact feature back who becomes his own blocker. Rookie three down starter with developed receiving skills. As a blocker, he shows quick reactions and toughness to face up to use his strong frame and agility, though needs to prove he can square off with blitz defenders. Natural runner and early difference maker. Faced NFL caliber defenders weekly and carried a full load with great production despite special attention. Very well rounded back and excellent skill set to be an impact player. Super blue-chip athlete and my #1 prospect since September 2017 with no need to change that grade. Top 2 prospect with elite talent to be among the league’s best runners immediately.
           Draft Projection: 1st Round – Top 2                                       
 

Draft Insiders’ – Rookie Spotlight – QB Baker Mayfield – Browns

  by Frank Coyle

Each week Draft Insiders’ will do a Rookie spotlight and post their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. Scouting Reports are written from the fall into March annually.

Week 3 showcased two top QB picks, in the Browns’ Baker Mayfield and Jets’ Sam Darnold. Mayfield has sat through the first two weeks of his rookie NFL season. He came off the bench with starter Tyrod Taylor suffering a late first half concussion. Mayfield brought new energy and life to a lackluster and mistake prone offense. He had a dramatic and impressive pro debut which was instrumental in the Browns first victory since Dec. 24, 2016.

Mayfield has uncanny instincts with quick decision making and footwork that allows him to move and create situations and extend plays. He displayed rare composure in a pressure packed situation Thursday night with the desperate yet loyal Brown faithful screaming from the moment he entered the game. He directed an amazing second half comeback vs a tough Jet defense, throwing for 17 completions on 23 passes for 201 yards. He also caught a 2-point conversion similar to a few he performed at Oklahoma during his brilliant college career. He once again displayed the terrific accuracy that was his signature during his Sooner career along with his leadership to make other players better.    
He was the #1 QB selected from a very deep class that saw four prospects chosen in the top ten and five in the first round overall. He was a rare Heisman Trophy winner and #1 overall selection in the same year. He has Browns fans buzzing after years of frustration especially at the QB leadership position. We compared him to Russell Wilson in talent, mobility and leadership which emerged dramatically over his Sooner career and postseason prior to the NFL Draft 2018.

     Draft Insiders’ 2018 Yearbook – March/April 2018

      Quarterbacks
Baker Mayfield #6  –     Oklahoma – 6-1 , 215  – Sp. 4.80          Rating 92
       Player Comparison: Russell Wilson

Slick senior gunslinger put up record setting numbers in the Sooners prolific passing attack which earned him the 2017 Heisman Trophy award. Transferred from Texas Tech in a class with QBs Patrick Mahomes and Davis Webb as an underclassman. Strong athletic frame with a god arm and quick release. Very good feet to setup, move in the pocket, slide to create new lanes or scramble to throw on the move or for a first down. Savvy athlete with a great sense of field presence and situations. Combines keen instincts with good athleticism to be both a leader and playmaker. Stepped up in big situations with big performances in the national playoffs as well as winning at Ohio St. Few clubs go into Columbus, Ohio and come away with a victory. Baker was instrumental in the Sooners’ win that marked them a national contender. Tight quick release with a natural throwing motion with the ability to release the ball from several positions with fine velocity and quickness. Played in the spread Sooner passing game putting up amazing numbers annually while showing the ability to throw the complete route tree. Shows the ability to drive the ball down the field and consistently fit into tight windows. Progresses very well as a pocket passer, though mainly operates in an offense with quick simple reads geared for the primary receiver. Gunslinger mentality with a cocky attitude that at times takes too much risk on plays. Savvy thrower can re-cock his arm quickly and deliver fast into new windows. Learning to be patient and look for other receivers and go through his progressions. Limited work from under center and faces a learning curve and needs to sit and adjust to the game. Needs to refine his setup and footwork under center and learn to go through his reads and adjustments to make the proper calls. Shows fine touch and accuracy on intermediate and vertical routes, though needs some refinement. Able to consistently place the ball with nice trajectory over the shoulder of his receivers to catch in full stride with nice accuracy to lead his receivers. Within the pocket, displays a crisp natural throwing motion to get the ball out fast. Able to really drive the ball when required and the ball can explode from his hand with good velocity on the outs and tight seam routes. Deceptive mobility to be effective on the move without losing his accuracy. Shows the toughness to sit in the pocket and take a hit to complete the pass.

The Numbers:  Over the 2017 season, he started 14 games and completed 285 passes of 404 attempts for a 71% rate for 4267 yards with 43 TDs and 6 picks. Won Heisman Trophy, in addition to three time Big 12 Player of the Year honors, Manning award, O’Brien award and Maxwell award in 2017. Over his junior season, he threw for 3965 yards while completing 71% with 40 TDs and 8 picks in 13 starts. Over his career, he posted a 39-9 record including several bowl victories and impressive road wins at Ohio St. Threw for 12292 yards with 119 TDs and 21 interceptions and a 69.8% completion rate. Similar to NFL starter, Russell Wilson in size, AA, arm strength and LOD. At the NFL Combine, he came in at over 6’ and 218 lbs. with 30 1/4” arms and 9 1/4 hands. He ran a 4.84 time and added a 29” VL and a 9’4” BJ with a 4.28 shuttle and 7.00 three cone.

The Skinny:  Highly productive QB with strong frame and rare arm to become a high-quality starter with some development. Needs improvement in his footwork to step up to play in a pro-style offense. He can throw the deep ball with accuracy, drive the ball down the field and make the tough intermediate throws and can fit the ball into tight windows when given time. Probable high 1st round and top pick. Top QB prospect with the skill set to win a starting job within a few seasons after learning a system. Needs further work on reading defenses and going through his progressions. Must prove up to the call of leadership to be successful in the NFL. Off the field problems must be addressed, though not criminal offenses. Rising top prospect.
                             Draft Projection: 1st Round

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018-2019

       By Frank Coyle – Head Scout Draft Insiders’

Senior Bowl – January 26, 2019 in Mobile, Al

Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy and staff have assembled another outstanding group of college players and Pro Prospects for the All-star classic this January. The Senior Bowl has been the premier All-star event of the college postseason and critical part of the evaluation process for the NFL Draft for decades. This event has showcased many future top NFL stars who made their debut nationally on the Senior Bowl stage.

This list will add prospects through the fall and be updated periodically. Draft Insiders’ will provide continuous Senior Bowl lists, changes and news through the January classic.

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 Full Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018-2019

Tight Ends and Offensive Linemen

Tight Ends

Andrew Beck – Texas
6-3,  255 Big 12

Ian Bunting – California
6-7,  255 Pac-12

Evan Butts – Virginia
6-4,  250 ACC

C.J. Conrad – Kentucky
6-5,  252 SEC

Micky Crum – Louisville
6-4,  255 ACC

Ceejhay French-Love – Arizona State
6-4,  245 Pac-12

Brandon Fritts – North Carolina
6-4,  240 ACC

Seth Hebert – Central Missouri
6-4,  225 Division II

Hale Hentges – Alabama
6-5,  249 SEC

Cole Herdman – Purdue
6-4,  245 Big Ten

C’yontai Lewis – Florida
6-4,  233 SEC

Alizé Mack – Notre Dame
6-5, 247 IND

Foster Moreau – LSU
6-6,  256 SEC

Josh Oliver – San Jose State
6-5, 250 MW

Tyler Petite – USC
6-4, 250 Pac-12

Isaiah Searight – Fordham
6-4, 250 FCS

Sam Seonbuchner – Iowa State
6-3, 244 Big 12

Matt Sokol – Michigan State
6-6, 255 Big Ten

Tommy Sweeney – Boston College
6-5, 260 ACC

Jerome Washington – Rutgers
6-4, 256 Big Ten

Offensive Linemen
Tackles

Paul Adams – Missouri
6-6, 315 SEC

Trey Adams – Washington
6-8, 316 Pac-12

Calvin Anderson – Texas
6-5, 300 Big 12

Jackson Barton – Utah
6-7, 312 Pac-12

Juwann Bushell-Beatty – Michigan
6-6, 315 Big Ten

Yodny Cajuste – West Virginia
6-5, 321 Big 12

Tariq Cole – Rutgers
6-6, 317 Big Ten

Daniel Cooney – University of San Diego
6-8, 315 FCS

Dennis Daley – South Carolina
6-6, 324 SEC

Andre Dillard – Washington State
6-5, 306 Pac-12

Derwin Gray – Maryland
6-5, 330 Big Ten

Ethan Greenidge – Villanova
6-4, 335 FCS

Justin Herron – Wake Forest
6-5, 290 ACC

Tytus Howard – Alabama State
6-6, 280 FCS

Mitch Hyatt – Clemson
6-5, 305 ACC

Martez Ivey – Florida
6-5, 306 SEC

Devon Johnson – Ferris State
6-7, 315 Division II

Tyler Jones – North Carolina State
6-3, 306 ACC

Chris Lindstrom – Boston College
6-4, 310 ACC

Kaleb McGary – Washington
6-8, 324 Pac-12

Garrett McGhin – East Carolina
6-6, 302 AAC

Yosuah Nijman – Virginia Tech
6-7, 314 ACC

Trey Pipkins – Sioux Falls (SD)
6-6, 300 Division II

Damian Prince – Maryland
6-3, 320 Big Ten

Isaiah Prince – Ohio State
6-7, 310 Big Ten

Dalton Risner – Kansas State
6-5, 308 Big 12

Max Scharping – Northern Illinois
6-6, 320 MAC

Tyree St. Louis – Miami
6-5, 315 ACC

Oli Udoh – Elon
6-6, 356 FCS

Brian Wallace – Arkansas
6-6, 320 SEC

Guards

Nick Allegretti – Illinois
6-4, 320 Big Ten

B.J. Autry – Jacksonville St.
6-5, 340 FCS

Zack Bailey – South Carolina
6-6, 314 SEC

Kendall Baker – Georgia
6-6, 305 SEC

Alex Bars – Notre Dame
6-6, 318 IND

Beau Benzschawel – Wisconsin
6-6, 315 Big Ten

Garrett Brumfield – LSU
6-4, 303 SEC

Deion Calhoun – Mississippi State
6-3, 320 SEC

Lester Cotton – Alabama
6-4, 324 SEC

Michael Deiter – Wisconsin
6-6, 310 Big Ten

Brandon Fanaika – Stanford
6-3, 315 Pac-12

Hjalte Froholdt – Arkansas
6-5, 315 SEC

Johnny Gibson Jr. – Arkansas
6-4, 319 SEC

Phil Haynes – Wake Forest
6-4, 310 ACC

Wes Martin – Indiana
6-3, 316 Big Ten

Nick Natour – SMU
6-4, 288 AAC

Javon Patterson – Ole Miss
6-3, 314 SEC

Kevin Pendleton – Missouri
6-4, 330 SEC

Ben Powers – Oklahoma
6-4, 313 Big 12

Patrick Vahe – Texas
6-3, 325 Big 12

Centers

Jon Baker – Boston College
6-3, 290 ACC

Garrett Bradbury – North Carolina State
6-3, 300 ACC

Jesse Burkett – Stanford
6-4, 300 Pac-12

Alec Eberle – Florida State
6-4, 299 ACC

Lamont Gaillard – Georgia
6-2, 308 SEC

Elgton Jenkins – Mississippi State
6-4, 310 SEC

Drew Kyser – Memphis
6-5, 300 AAC

Nick Linder – Indiana
6-3, 307 Big Ten

Toa Lobendahn – USC
6-3, 295 Pac-12

Brendan Moore – Maryland
6-3, 302 Big Ten

Sam Mustipher – Notre Dame
6-3, 306 IND

Ross Pierschbacher – Alabama
6-4, 309 SEC

Sean Rawlings – Ole Miss
6-5, 294 SEC

Full Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018-2019

By Frank Coyle – Head Scout

Senior Bowl – January 26, 2019 in Mobile, Al

Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy and staff have assembled another outstanding group of college players and future Pro Prospects for the All-star classic this January. The Senior Bowl has been the premier All-star event of the postseason and critical part of the evaluation process for decades. This event has showcased many future top NFL stars who made their debut nationally on the Senior Bowl stage.

This list will add prospects through the fall and be updated periodically.

Full Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018-2019
Quarterbacks, Running Backs and Wide Receivers

Quarterbacks – 31 Prospects
Drew Anderson – Murray St.
6-5, 230 FCS
Jonathan Banks – Tulane
6-2, 225 AAC
Jake Browning – Washington
6-2, 210 Pac-12
Kelly Bryant – Clemson
6-4, 220 ACC
Taryn Christion – South Dakota St.
6-2, 225 FCS
Keller Chryst – Tennessee
6-5, 239 SEC
Eric Dungey – Syracuse
6-4, 226 ACC
A.J. Ederly – UAB
6-4, 220 C-USA
Ryan Finley – North Carolina St
6-4, 212 ACC
Nick Fitzgerald – Mississippi St
6-5, 230 SEC
Andrew Ford – UMASS
6-3, 210 IND
Ty Gangi – Nevada
6-2, 210 MW
Will Grier – West Virginia
6-2, 223 Big 12
Justice Hansen – Arkansas St
6-4, 224 Sun Belt
Devlin Hodges – Samford
6-1, 210 FCS
Kyle Kempt – Iowa St
6-5, 224 Big 12
Drew Lock – Missouri
6-4, 225 SEC
Tanner Mangum – Brigham Young
6-3, 205 IND
Marcus McMaryion – Fresno St
6-2, 195 MW
Trace McSorley – Penn St
6-0, 203 Big Ten
Hayden Moore – Cincinnati
6-3, 215 AAC
Frank Nutile – Temple
6-4, 220 AAC
Malik Rosier – Miami
6-1, 212 ACC
Brett Rypien – Boise St
6-2, 202 MW
Kyle Shurmur – Vanderbilt
6-4, 225 SEC
Wilton Speight – UCLA
6-6, 232 Pac-12
Easton Stick – North Dakota St
6-2, 221 FCS
Brent Stockstill – Middle Tennessee
6-0, 215 C-USA
Jordan Ta’amu – Ole Miss
6-2, 212 SEC
Clayton Thorson – Northwestern
6-4, 226 Big Ten
Manny Wilkins – Arizona St
6-3, 200 Pac-12

Running Backs – 19 Prospects
Ryquell Armstead – Temple
5-11, 215 AAC
Tony Brooks-James – Oregon
5-9, 190 Pac-12
Squally Canada – Brigham Young
5-11, 210 IND
Myles Gaskin – Washington
5-10, 193 Pac-12
Damien Harris – Alabama
5-11, 215 SEC
Karan Higdon – Michigan
5-10, 202 Big Ten
Soso Jamabo – UCLA
6-2, 212 Pac-12
Ty Johnson – Maryland
5-10, 212 Big Ten
Marcus Jones – Gannon
5-11, 225 Division II
Patrick Laird – California
6-0, 205 Pac-12
Bryce Love – Stanford
5-10, 202 Pac-12
Jalin Moore – Appalachian State
5-11, 205 Sun Belt
Jacques Patrick – Florida State
6-3, 234 ACC
LJ Scott – Michigan State
6-1, 226 Big Ten
Rodney Smith – Minnesota
5-11, 210 Big Ten
Tre Watson – Texas
5-11, 195 Big 12
Aeris Williams – Mississippi State
6-1, 215 SEC
Darnell Woolfolk – Army
5-9, 235 AAC
Marquis Young – UMASS
6-1, 215 IND

Wide Receivers – 40 Prospects
JJ Arcega-Whiteside – Stanford
6-3, 225 Pac-12
Jaelan Austin – TCU
6-2, 198 Big 12
Tyre Brady – Marshall
6-3, 206 C-USA
Nate Brown – Missouri
6-3, 210 SEC
Shun Brown – Arizona
5-10, 188 Pac-12
Ventell Bryant – Temple
6-3, 200 AAC
John Burt – Texas
6-3, 195 Big 12
Emmanuel Butler – Northern Arizona
6-4, 220 FCS
Parris Campbell – Ohio State
6-1, 208 Big Ten
Ryan Davis – Auburn
5-9, 185 SEC
Felton Davis III – Michigan State
6-4, 195 Big Ten
Keelan Doss – UC Davis
6-3, 206 FCS
Mike Dudek – Illinois
5-11, 195 Big Ten
Jonathan Duhart – Old Dominion
6-3, 220 C-USA
James Gardner – Miami (Ohio)
6-4, 217 MAC
Terry Godwin – Georgia
5-11, 185 SEC
Emanuel Hall – Missouri
6-3, 200 SEC
Will Hastings – Auburn
5-10, 166 SEC
Tabari Hines – Oregon
5-10, 175 Pac-12
Jesper Horsted – Princeton
6-4, 220 FCS
Jalen Hurd – Baylor
6-4, 229 Big 12
Andy Isabella – UMASS
5-10, 195 IND
Gary Jennings – West Virginia
6-2, 215 Big 12
Anthony Johnson – Buffalo
6-2, 210 MAC
KeeSean Johnson – Fresno State
6-2, 202 MW
Olabisi Johnson – Colorado State
6-0, 203 MW
Darrell Langham – Miami
6-4, 235 ACC
DaMarkus Lodge – Ole Miss
6-2, 199 SEC
Jay MacIntyre – Colorado
5-10, 185 Pac-12
Tyre McCants – South Florida
5-11, 225 AAC
Terry McLaurin – Ohio State
6-1, 205 Big Ten
Stanley Morgan Jr. – Nebraska
6-1, 200 Big Ten
Nyqwan Murray – Florida State
5-11, 192 ACC
Shawn Poindexter – Arizona
6-5, 218 Pac-12
Hunter Renfrow – Clemson
5-10, 180 ACC
Deebo Samuel – South Carolina
6-0, 210 SEC
David Sills V – West Virginia
6-4, 210 Big 12
Steven Sims Jr. – Kansas
5-10, 176 Big 12
Jaylen Smith – Louisville
6-4, 223 ACC
Kwadarrius Smith – Akron
5-9, 170 MAC
DeAndre Thompkins – Penn State
5-11, 188 Big Ten
Cody Thompson – Toledo
6-2, 205 MAC
KaVontae Turpin – TCU
5-9, 157 Big 12
Jamarius Way – South Alabama
6-4, 215 Sun Belt
Vic Wharton III – California
5-11, 190 Pac-12
Reggie White Jr. – Monmouth University (N.J.)
6-3, 210 FCS

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – QB Sam Darnold – Jets

   by Frank Coyle

Each week Draft Insiders’ will do a Rookie spotlight and post their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. It was written thru the fall into March annually.

Week 1 in the NFL showcased two New York top picks, Jets’ QB Sam Darnold and Giants’ running back Saquon Barkley. Both had impressive pro debuts and are key components on these revamped offenses.   

    Barkley overcame an alarming pick six on his very first NFL play to lead the Jets to a surprising blowout of the hometown Lions. (Brett Farve also threw a pick six on his very first NFL play). Darnald displayed rare composure that allowed him to stay focus and direct a comeback that has Jet fans buzzing after years of frustration especially at the QB leadership position

    Darnold was our #1 QB from August 2017 through April 2018 in the strongest group since the 2004 draft class. He was the 2nd QB drafted with the 3rd overall selection by the Jets. Five QBs were selected in the first round of the NFL Draft 2018 with four chosen in the top ten picks.

 Draft Insiders’ 2018 Yearbook – March/April 2018

 Quarterbacks

1 * Sam Darnold #14 –  Southern California –   6-3, 220    – Sp. 4.75                  Rating 93
Gritty talented redshirt sophomore led the Trojans to postseason appearances during his two seasons. Strong agile athlete with very good arm and quick footwork plus the intangibles to become a top-flight NFL starter. Despite a short resume and some erratic performances, he developed quickly and shows a well-rounded skill set to make the jump to the NFL. Natural physical traits coveted in an elite NFL passer, though not completely developed currently. He has fine intangibles with a blue-collar mentality. Despite his age, he shows excellent poise, anticipation, toughness, vision, leadership and competitive desire. Displays the complete physical and mental package with excellent production at a very high-level vs Pac-12 talent. Shows a tight compact delivery and capable of firing strikes from the pocket or on the move. Very good footwork to move in the pocket and create passing lanes and keep plays alive. Developing the experience to go through his check downs faster and finding secondary receivers. Attempted to do too much early in the 2017 season with an average supporting cast. Needs to learn to throw the ball away to live to play another down than forcing the ball into heavy coverage. Slides well in the pocket and can evade pressure well, reset his feet and plant to make a big throw. Maintains his vision down field very well looking for receivers to make their second move. Operated under center, but also spent time from the gun and needs work on his drop back and setting his feet while reading coverage. Shows the smarts and discipline to be a quick study, though must learn to make sound decisions with the ball. Displays the ability to deliver very accurate short and intermediate passes, as well as tossing strikes down the alleys. Possesses fine touch on deep passes as well as inside the red zone. Impressive to improvise and make adjustments to situations. Makes clutch throws with the game on the line. Shows a quick release and possesses very good arm strength. At times, he can stare down his primary target and telegraph his throws.  When under pressure, he will make off-balance throws which has led to turnovers. He shows good ball handling with the ability to fake and draw defenders into false reads.

The Numbers:  As a sophomore, he started all 14 games, leading USC to a 11-3 record. Completed 304 of 480 passes for 4143 yards with 26 TDs and 13 interceptions while earning 1st team Pac-12 honors. As a freshman, he played in 13 games and completed 246 of 366 passes for 3086 yards for 31 TDs and 9 interceptions. Over his career, he started only 22 games and threw for 7229 yards with 57 TD passes and 22 interceptions. He rushed for 7 TDs. His career finale in their loss to Ohio St in the Cotton Bowl he threw a pick six and had two fumbles. At the NFL Combine, he came in over 6’3” and 221 lbs. with 9 3/8” hands and 31” arms. He ran a 4.67 time with a 26.5” VJ and an 8’9” BJ and added a 4.40 shuttle and 6.96 three cone. Did not participate in the passing drills. At his pro day, he displayed good velocity, timing and accuracy. He helped his cause with a strong performance. Very similar to Lions’ Matt Stafford in body size, arm strength, delivery and overall temperament and AA.

The Skinny:  Gifted sophomore makes all the throws. Fast improving talent with only two seasons starting experience vs NFL caliber defenders. Competitor takes command and displays very good football IQ and capable of making a difference in crunch time. Athletic strong frame and size to hold up to the physical demands of the game. Shows the toughness and defense recognition to continue to develop as a winning starter. Needs to sit and settle into a system for a little time especially recognizing coverage and going through his progressions. One of the QB gems in recent years and intriguing raw prospect with huge upside potential to develop into a Pro Bowl performer. Talented blue-chip prospect with the Browns looking to land in the top selection.
Draft Projection: 1st Round – Top overall pick

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018

Senior Bowl – January 26, 2019 in Mobile, Al
2018-19 Watch List

The college football season has just kicked off and fans can watch the games with an eye to the future as the Reese’s Senior Bowl releases its annual ‘Watch List’ of players for its upcoming 2019 game – the starting point for the NFL Draft process. The Senior Bowl is the premier all-star event of the postseason and has become a classic with major implications for the NFL Draft annually.

“The release of our watch list signifies the opening kickoff for the Reese’s Senior Bowl,” said Reese’s Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy. “We are looking forward to evaluating these prospects over the next several months and trying to find the best 110 players in America.

The initial watch list includes 374 players from 14 different conferences including independents, FCS, Division II and NAIA schools from around the nation. DraftInsiders.com will have Watch List positional rankings starting this week with scouting reports available throughout the fall.

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

Reese’s Senior Bowl scouts will be all over the country in the next few months, evaluating a senior class that features some intriguing prospects at every position on the field.

The SEC, which has consistently produced the most NFL draft picks over the last several years, features the most prospects on the list with 79. It is followed by the Pac-12 (51), Big Ten (50), ACC (45) and Big 12 (43).

Texas (13) has the most players on the list, followed by Mississippi St (9), while Clemson, Georgia, Miami, Stanford, USC and Washington each have eight players.

There are 30 QBs on the list, including Missouri’s Drew Lock, West Virginia’s Will Grier, NC State’s Ryan Finley and Northwestern’s Clayton Thorson.

Other top players on the list: Alabama RB Damien Harris and OLB Christian Miller, Auburn DT Dontavius Russell, Stanford RB Bryce Love, Ohio State WR Parris Campbell, South Carolina WR Deebo Samuel, Arkansas OG Hjalte Froholdt, Washington OT Trey Adams, Clemson DE Christian Wilkins, Mississippi State DE/OLB Montez Sweat, Michigan DE/OLB Chase Winovich, Georgia CB Deandre Baker and Miami (FL) Safety Jaquan Johnson.

The list does not include any potential fourth-year junior graduates. Those players must graduate in December and declare for the 2019 NFL Draft before the Reese’s Senior Bowl considers them as candidates for the 2019 game.

The 70th annual Reese’s Senior Bowl is January 26, 2019 in Mobile, Ala., at 1:30pmCT. A long NFL tradition, more than 1,000 representatives from the 32 NFL clubs gather in Mobile starting on the Monday of game week (Jan. 21 in 2019) to interview players, attend the National Scouting Weigh-in and watch three practices for the North and South teams.

By Conference
American Athletic – 20
ACC – 45
Big Ten – 50
Big 12 – 43
C-USA – 12
Division II – 6
FCS – 24
Independents – 14
MAC – 11
Mountain West – 12
NAIA – 1
Pac-12 – 51
SEC – 79
Sun Belt – 6

By Position
Cornerbacks – 39
Safeties – 36
Defensive Ends – 27
Defensive Tackles – 23
Inside Backers – 36
Outside Backers – 25
Centers – 13
Guards – 19
Tackles – 30
Quarterbacks – 31
Running Backs – 19
Fullbacks – 2
Tight Ends – 20
Receivers – 46
Kickers/Punters – 10

Senior Bowl Watch List 2018
Go to – https://www.seniorbowl.com/watch-list

2018 Outland Trophy Watch List

The 2018 Outland Trophy presented by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases will be one of college football’s most anticipated award races this season, as University of Houston junior defensive tackle Ed Oliver attempts to join former University of Nebraska center Dave Rimington (1981, 1982) as the only two-time winners of the award. Oliver is the only sophomore to have ever won the award.

The preseason 2018 Outland Trophy Watch List, featuring standout interior linemen on offense and defense from all 10 Division I Football Bowl Subdivision conferences and independents, will be announced tomorrow, July 24. The three finalists will be featured on ESPN’s The Home Depot College Football Awards and the winner will be announced in early December. The Outland Trophy Banquet follows in early January in Omaha, Nebraska.

“The FWAA is delighted to partner with NFID in this Outland Trophy sponsorship. NFID is an influential thought leader promoting important public health messages around disease prevention and treatment. Using one of college football’s oldest and most revered awards to help promote flu prevention is a winning play on any field as far as the FWAA is concerned,” said Richardson.

The Outland Trophy, now in its 73rd year, is the third-oldest major college football award. Created in 1946 when Dr. John Outland presented the FWAA with a financial contribution to initiate the award, the Outland Trophy has been given to the best interior lineman in college football ever since. Dr. Outland, an All-American at the University of Pennsylvania in the late 1890s, eventually took up practice in Kansas City, Missouri. An avid outdoorsman, Dr. Outland believed linemen did not get the credit they deserved and wanted an award to recognize them.

2017 Outland winner Ed Oliver of Houston returns in 2018  for his junior season

Frank Coyle is a voter in Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy,  Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff  and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years.

2018 Outland Trophy Watch List

OL Paul Adams, Missouri
OL Trey Adams, Washington
OL Hakeem Adeniji, Kansas
C Ryan Anderson, Wake Forest
OL Alex Bars, Notre Dame
OL Ryan Bates, Penn State
DT Terry Beckner, Missouri
DT Ryan Bee, Marshall
G David Beedle, Michigan State
OL Beau Benzschawel, Wisconsin
C Tyler Biadasz, Wisconsin
OL Lanard Bonner, Arkansas State
G Tyler Bowling, Tulsa
C Garrett Bradbury, N.C. State
OL Parker Braun, Georgia Tech
OL Ben Bredeson, Michigan
DT Derrick Brown, Auburn
C Jesse Burkett, Stanford
OL Yodny Cajuste, West Virginia
DT Marquise Copeland, Cincinnati
C Deontae Crumitie, Troy
OL Michael Deiter, Wisconsin
OL Tommy Doles, Northwestern
OL O’Shea Dugas, Louisiana Tech
C Alec Eberle, Florida State
OL David Edwards, Wisconsin
OL Bobby Evans, Oklahoma
C Justin Falcinelli, Clemson
C Lo Falemaka, Utah
OL Hjalte Froholdt, Arkansas
C Lamont Gaillard, Georgia
DT Greg Gaines, Washington
C Tyler Gauthier, Miami
DT Youhanna Ghaifan, Wyoming
C Jake Hanson, Oregon
OL Phil Haynes, Wake Forest
G Nate Herbig, Stanford
DT Trysten Hill, UCF
OT Mitch Hyatt, Clemson
OL Martez Ivey, Florida
C Jordan Johnson, UCF
DT Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State
OL Michael Jordan, Ohio State
OL Luke Juriga, Western Michigan
C John Keenoy, Western Michigan
OL Marcus Keyes, Oklahoma State
C Sean Krepsz, Nevada
DT Dexter Lawrence, Clemson
G Jimmy Leatiota, Eastern Michigan
DT Ira Lewis, Baylor
DT Ray Lima, Iowa State
OL Chris Lindstrom, Boston College
OL Greg Little, Ole Miss
C Toa Lobendahn, USC
OL Joe Lowery, Ohio
OL Kaleb McGary, Washington
C Connor McGovern, Penn State
OL Patrick Mekari, California
C Chandler Miller, Tulsa
DT David Moa, Boise State
C Sam Mustipher, Notre Dame
C Will Noble, Houston
OT Marcus Norman, USF
DT Ed Oliver, Houston
C Ross Pierschbacher, Alabama
OL Ben Powers, Oklahoma
OL Isaiah Prince, Ohio State
OL Dalton Risner, Kansas State
NT Olive Sagapolu, Wisconsin
OL Dru Samia, Oklahoma
OT Max Scharping, NIU
DT Jordon Scott, Oregon
DT Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State
OL Trey Smith, Tennessee
OL Trevon Tate, Memphis
OL Calvin Throckmorton, Oregon
DT Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame
OL Patrick Vahe, Texas
DT Ricky Walker, Virginia Tech
DT Christian Wilkins, Clemson
OL Jonah Williams, Alabama
DT Daniel Wise, Kansas