Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 2

Rams Impress in Opener – Bucs & Chiefs Win on Late Scores

Offensive Player of Week – Matthew Stafford – Rams
Defensive Player of the Week – DE Chandler Jones – Cardinals

NFL Team Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 1-0 Rams
Rams’ may have MVP leader in new starter, QB Matthew Stafford.

#2 – 1-0 Bucs
Bucs coming off a nice win opening win over the Cowboys with Tom Brady working more magice.

#3 – 1-0 Chiefs
Chiefs recovered to beat the Browns behind Mr. Mahomes.

#4 – 1-0 Seahawks
Seahawks beat the Colts in a playoff caliber matchup behind Russell Wilson’s hot hand.

#5 – 1-0 Saints
Saints’ shock the Packers behind a huge effort by a rejuvenated Jameis Winston.

#6 – 1-0 49ers
The 49ers had to hold on vs the Bears’ comeback.

#7 – 1-0 Chargers
Chargers beat the WFT with a good performance as one of the sleeper clubs in the league.

#8 – 1-0 Steelers
Steelers fought the Bills blow for blow and come out with an impressive victory against a strong AFC contender.

#9 – 0-1 Bills
Bills’ travel to Miami in key early AFC East matchup that could determine divisional leadership.

#10 – 0-1 Ravens
Ravens fell in a wild MNF matchup with the Raiders despite a rash of injuries.

#11 – 1-0 Broncos
Broncos beat the Giants behind a smart Teddy Bridgewater who controlled the game for 60 minutes.

#12 – 1-0 Dolphins
Dolphins won a key East opener in New England that places them in an important home game with Buffalo.

#13 – 1-0 Cardinals
Cardinals smoked the Titans behind Kyler Murray and a dominant effort by edge rusher Chandler Jones.

#14 – 0-1 Browns
Browns lost a tough matchup vs the Chiefs. They will address their defensive unit over the season.

#15 – 1-0 Raiders
The Raiders won the crazy MNF game and are off to Pittsburgh for another key AFC matchup.

#16 – 1-0 Panthers
Panthers rode the arm of new vet Sam Darnold vs his ex club for a strong opening victory.

#17 – 0-1 Patriots
Pats lost a tough 17-16 matchup with the Dolphins. Face the Jets this Sunday.

#18 – 1-0 Eagles
The Eagles bombed the weak Falcons and host the 49ers in their home opener this week.

#19 – 0-1 Cowboys
The Cowboys lost a tough matchup with the Bucs. Face the emerging Chargers in LA.

#20 – 0-1 Packers
The Packers were asleep vs the Saints with weak performances on both sides of the ball.

#21 – 0-1 Colts
The Colts were handled by the Seahawks and host the potent Rams Sunday in their home opener.

#22 – 1-0 Bengals
Bengals win in overtime in opener with road trip to Chicago next up.

#23 – 0-1 Vikings
Vikings lost a tough one to the Bengals, though the entire North division is still looking for any team victory.

#24 – 0-1 Redskins
The Redskins lost vet QB Fitzpatrick and will try to get their first victory with young Taylor Heinicke vs GMen.

#25 – 0-1 Titans
The Titans were surprisingly drilled by the Cardinals and face a tough road matchup with the Seahawks.

#26 – 0-1 Bears
The Bears were man handled by the Rams. Host the Bengals in an important early game especially for Andy Dalton.

#27 – 0-1 Giants
The Giants gave QB Daniel Jones little support while defense performed poorly on key downs.

#28 – 0-1 Lions
Lions fought back vs the 49ers, but it looks like a painful rebuilding season in Motown.

#29 – 1-0 Texans
Texans’ beat the Jaguars for an opening win, though face an angry Browns club on the road this Sunday.

#30 – 0-1 Falcons
Falcons face the Bucs in tough contest where they will be pressed to avert the South basement.

#31 – 0-1 Jaguars
Jaguars host the Broncos after a disappointing loss to Texans in HC Urban Meyers first game.

#32 – 0-1 Jets
Jets lost to the Panthers vs former starter Sam Darnold. Face hated Patriots in home opener.

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

College Football Monday – Week 3
Conference Play Opens for Big 5 Schedules
SEC has 4 Teams in Top 10 and 7 in Top 25 Rankings

Top 25 Rankings

Bama and Georgia Roll for Top Two Rankings
Oregon and Iowa Win Key Interconference Matchups

Team of Week – Iowa
 
Upsets of the Week –
   Oregon over Ohio St 35-28
   BYU over Utah – 26-17

Offensive Player of Week – RB C.J. Verdell – Oregon
Defensive Player of Week – DB Matt Hankins – Iowa

 Upcoming Key Weekly Matchups – 9/18
   #1 Alabama @ #11 Florida
#22 Auburn @ #10 Penn St.
 

DraftInsiders.com – Top 25 Teams

Rank / Team               Record               
1 Alabama                      2-0                   
2 Georgia                       2-0       
3 Oklahoma                   2-0                   
4 Oregon                        2-0                   
5 Texas A&M                 2-0                   
6 Iowa                             2-0                   
7 Clemson                      1-1                   
8 Cincinnati                  2-0                   
9 Florida                        2-0                   
10 Notre Dame            2-0                   
11 Ohio State                1-1                   
12 Penn State               2-0                   
13 UCLA                         2-0                   
14 Virginia Tech         2-0                   
15 Iowa State               1-1                   
16 Ole Miss                   2-0                   
17 Wisconsin                1-1                   
18 Auburn                     2-0                   
19 Coastal Carolina    2-0                   
20 North Carolina       1-1                   
21 Oklahoma State      2-0                   
22 Arizona State          2-0                   
23 Arkansas                  2-0                   
24 BYU                            2-0                   
25 Michigan                  2-0                   
 

Coaches Poll

Rank / Team                 Record / Pts     
 1 Alabama (64)           2-0        1624    
2 Georgia (1)                2-0        1558    
3 Oklahoma                  2-0        1454    
4 Oregon                        2-0        1356    
5 Texas A&M                2-0        1307    
6 Clemson                     1-1        1279    
7 Iowa                            2-0        1165    
8 Cincinnati                 2-0        1114    
9 Florida                       2-0        1095    
10 Notre Dame           2-0        1059    
11 Ohio State               1-1        1041    
12 Penn State              2-0        995      
13 UCLA                        2-0        787      
14 Iowa State              1-1        611      
15 Virginia Tech        2-0        591      
16 Ole Miss                   2-0        546      
17 Wisconsin                1-1        537      
18 Coastal Carolina   2-0        492      
19 North Carolina       1-1        300      
20 Auburn                     2-0        264      
21 Arizona State          2-0        246      
22 Oklahoma State    2-0        222      
23 BYU                            2-0        213      
24 Arkansas                 2-0        196      
25 Michigan                 2-0        180      
 

Others receiving votes: Miami 137, USC 99, UCF 65, Liberty 63, Michigan State 63, TCU 57, Pittsburgh 52, Kentucky 50, Utah 41, Texas 36, Kansas State 28, Indiana 28, LSU 26, Boston College 22, Nevada 18, Fresno State 13, SMU 10, Rutgers 10, Army 9, Mississippi State 9, Louisiana 9, San Diego State 9, Tulane 6, Maryland 6, NC State 5, San José State 5, Marshall 4, Virginia 4, Air Force 3, Stanford 3, UTSA 1, Memphis 1, Boise State 1

 Dropped from rankings: USC 14, Texas 15, Utah 18, Miami 24

 Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN 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.

NFL 2021 Predictions –

   Rams Beat Bills in Super Bowl Matchup
DraftInsiders.com – NFL 2021 Predictions

MVP Award – QB Matthew Stafford – Rams

Offensive Player of the Year – QB Josh Allen – Bills
Defensive Player of the Year – DE Chase Young – WFT
Comeback Player of the Year – RB Saquan Barkley – Giants

Rookies of the Year

Offense – QB Mac Jones – Patriots
Defense – CB Patrick Surtain – Broncos

NFC
EAST
New York Giants – 10-7
Giants hope to build on last year’s improvement and look to the return of tailback Saquan Barkley to balance an offense directed by young talented Daniel Jones. Their offensive line may hold the key and must protect the three year passer. Their top ten defense can improve further.

Washington Redskins – 9-8
Skins added vet QB Ryan Fitzpatrick to lead this improved offense that has added a few playmakers.  Back Antonio Gibson is primed for a big season while their line adds two new starters and will be tested.  Their defense added rookie backer Jamin Davis to a dominant unit with rusher Chase Young, one of the league’s emerging superstars.

Dallas Cowboys – 7-10
QB Dak Prescott returns from an ankle injury to couple with runner Ezekiel Elliot who carries the load here. Their receiving corps is arguably the best trio in the game. Their once dominant line returns veterans, Tyson Smith and Zach Martin. Their defense is not at playoff levels.

Philadelphia Eagles – 6-11
Eagles made major changes trading of former top pick Carson Wentz who will be replace by Jalen Hurts. Their line must prove back to their earlier form while the defense has slipped and may soon face a rebuilding phase.

NORTH
Green Bay Packers -12-5 –
Aaron Rodgers separates this club from an average group of divisional rivals for their third consecutive North title.

Minnesota Vikings – 9-8 –
QB Kirk Cousin and runner Dalvin Cook keeps this offense at playoff levels, but only a revitalized defense will decide any postseason appearance.

Chicago Bears – 7-10 –
Bears look to new veteran QB Andy Dalton to direct this average offense with rookie Justin Fields in the wing. The defense fell to mediocrity last season and must return to a top ten ranking for any playoff aspirations.

Detroit Lions – 6- 11 –
Lions turn the page again with new coaching and front office personnel. The very tough first half schedule probably has this club drafting in the top five selections once more.

SOUTH
Tampa Bay Bucs – 13-4 –
The Bucs return every starter and of course QB Tom Brady.  Veteran talented defense should continue to dominate this soft division.

New Orleans Saints – 9-8 –
The Saints begin the post Drew Brees era behind Jameis Winston.  HC Sean Payton hopes he can stabilize the once turnover machine in Tampa. Saints defense is a top five unit who keeps them in the postseason chase.

Carolina Panthers – 7-10 –
Panthers turn the page with new vet QB Sam Darnold along with returning playmaker Christian McCaffrey to provide impact to this struggling unit. Young defense must show improvement.

Atlanta Falcons – 6-11 –
Falcons have continued to collapse since their SB meltdown four years ago. Vet QB Matt Ryan directs this club but may be the next piece on the trading market this year. Defense ranks with the worst in the league.

WEST
Los Angeles Rams – 12-5 –
Rams traded for star QB Matthew Stafford who should flourish in this HC Sean McVay attack. His presence elevates this offense to couple with a premier defense to form a strong SB contender.

San Francisco 49ers – 10-7 –
The 49ers look to the return of veterans, QB Jimmy Garoppolo and edge defender Nick Bosa to challenge for the West title.  Offense must step up to win the West title.

Seattle Seahawks – 9-8 –
Seahawks may be hard pressed to repeat in the West. QB Russell Wilson directs a strong run oriented offense with emerging back Chris Carson.  Their once dominant defense has slipped noticeable especially in key matchups.

Arizona Cardinals – 7-10 –
Cards look to build off last years’ playoff run behind young QB Kyler Murray and a strong group of playmakers. Vet DE JJ Watt looks to become a leader and playmaker on this average unit.

Divisional Champs
Giants, Packers, Bucs and Rams

Wild Card Clubs
Saints & 49ers

NFC Championship
Rams beat Packers in NFC title game.

AFC
EAST

Buffalo Bills – 11-6 –
Bills won their first East title since ’95 season behind star QB Josh Allen. An improved ground game will assist their young tough defense to improve further in big matchups.

New England Patriots – 10-7 –
Pats turn over the keys to rookie QB Mac Jones who looks like an ideal fit here. Bill Belichick will utilize a veteran defense with many new front seven pieces to his brilliant schemes.

Miami Dolphins – 9-8 –
Dolphins need young QB Tua Tagovailoa to step up after a mixed rookie performance. Their defense bends but minimizes big plays and may hold the key to any playoff hopes.

New York Jets – 5-12 –
Jets look to rookie top pick QB Zach Wilson to direct this offense which has many new starters. This club begins another rebuilding process that may take a few seasons.

NORTH
Cleveland Browns – 11-6 –
Browns feel they have arrived after making the playoffs for the first time in 26 seasons. They are primed to win the division behind QB Baker Mayfield and a strong ground game.  Their defense must improve in all areas to make key overall progress.

Baltimore Ravens – 10-7 –
The Ravens will rely on QB Lamar Jackson to direct this offense that has sustained major injuries at running back. Their tough defense retools annually and must improve in coverage to go further in the postseason.

Pittsburgh Steelers – 9-8 –
Big Ben gets new playmakers especially rookie back Najee Harris to attempt to repeat in North division. Their offensive line may be the determining factor for any postseason appearance.  The Steel defense remains the team’s backbone.

Cincinnati Bengals – 6-11 –
The Bengals need young QB Joe Burrow to return to his form prior to his late rookie season knee injury. Their offensive line is vital to any improvement at this struggling attack. Their defense has several new starters.

SOUTH
Indianapolis Colts – 11-6 –
New QB Carson Wentz returns after foot surgery that may affect his early season performance. Expect a reliance on a strong ground game with Jon Taylor running behind their talented line.  This young club needs to improve to win this division especially in coverage.

Tennessee Titans – 10-7 –
The Titans look to QB Ryan Tannehill to direct this potent offense that relies on premier back Derrick Henry to control the game. Their defense must step up especially rushing the passer to maintain playoff levels.

Jacksonville Jaguars – 6-11 –
Jaguars look to top pick QB Trevor Lawrence to help this club to respectable levels. Their young defense is loaded with talent, but must turn the corner after weak overall 2020 performances.

Houston Texans – 5-12 –
The Texans will face the DeShaun Watson legal issues most of this season that will be very disruptive. They could trade him before November.  Massive roster turnover will make this a major rebuilding project.

WEST
Kansas City Chiefs – 12-5 –
Chiefs look for their 6^th consecutive West title behind star QB Patrick Mahomes and a masterfully rebuild offensive line. They rely on veterans, safety Tyrann Mathieu and DT Chris Jones to set the pace for this inconsistent defense.

San Diego Chargers – 10-7 –
The Chargers look to young QB Justin Herbert to continue his outstanding level of play. New linemen, vet Corey Linsley and rookie Rasheed Slater will help. They can surprise for the West title, though need huge improvement on their young defense with returning safety Derwin James directing this unit.

Denver Broncos – 9-8 –
Broncos hope to make a run at title with a strong veteran lineup along with bridge QB Teddy Bridgewater. Whether he can take this low scoring attack to the next level remains to be seen. Their defense has slipped noticeably in recent seasons.

Oakland Raiders – 7-10 –
Raiders rely on talented QB Derek Carr to direct this offense powered by tailback Josh Jacobs.  They need fast overall improvement on defense to challenge for an above .500 season.

Divisional Champs
Bills, Browns, Colts and Chiefs

Wild Card Clubs
Titans & Ravens

AFC Championship
Bills beat the Chiefs

Super Bowl Matchup
Rams over Bills
Rams win a wild Super Bowl showdown with Bills.

Balanced NFC East Presents Another Dogfight for Title

NFC – EAST

New York Giants – 10-7

Giants hope to build on last year’s improvement and look to the return of tailback Saquan Barkley to balance an offense directed by young talented Daniel Jones. Their offensive line may hold the key and must protect the three year passer. They have a potential explosive attack that added vets Kenny Golladay and TE Kyle Rudolph. The defense ranks in the top ten in the league behind DC Patrick Graham. DE Leonard Williams is a dominant diverse lineman while Mike man Blake Martinez is a savvy ball hawk who goes sideline to sideline. The secondary ranks among the best in the league.  Look to DE Dexter Lawrence to breakout with a strong overall performance. This club needs a good start after repeated horrible recent early season performances. They can win the competitive East, though only in the offensive line steps up and shows weekly consistency.

Washington Redskins – 9-8

Skins added veteran QB Ryan Fitzpatrick to lead this improved offense that has added a few playmakers recently.  FitzMagic is a poised leader who makes big clutch plays with the game in the balance. Feature back Antonio Gibson is primed for a big season with more touches expected. Their offensive line adds two new starters and will be tested.  Their defense has the makeup to rank with any unit in the league and added rookie backer Jamin Davis. Their front four can be dominant at times with edge rusher Chase Young one of the emerging superstars on the unit.  Their secondary has improved further with the addition of veteran William Jackson. Skins close the season with five straight NFC East matchups that may determine any return to the playoffs.

Dallas Cowboys – 7-10

QB Dak Prescott returns from a serious ankle injury, in addition to a preseason persistent throwing shoulder problem that leaves key questions related to his durability. He is not among the top 10 starting QBs. Running back Ezekiel Elliot carries the load here and will be a marked man weekly. Their receiving corps is talented and arguably the best trio in the game in Cooper, Lamb and Gallup. Their once dominant offensive line returns LT Tyson Smith and guard Zach Martin. RT La’tel Collins struggles with hip and neck injuries that hinder him the first half of the season. Their average young defense needs to step up especially their front seven which struggled stopping the run and apply consistent pressure. A soft overall schedule helps with many East games late in the season, though this club has too many key questions at important positions to expect a postseason appearance.  The most overrated team in the NFL.

Philadelphia Eagles – 6-11

Eagles made major changes with the trade of former top pick Carson Wentz who will be replace by second year Jalen Hurts. He barely completed 50% of his passes last season with 6 TDs along with 4 interceptions. He is though, a quality scrambler who gives them an added dimension in that role. They have major questions along the line and at wideout that could create inconsistencies on offense. The defense has slipped from playoff levels. DT Fletcher Cox hopes to return to former levels while vet Brandon Graham looks to continue his career consistency.  Eagles have the look of a rebuilding club especially with a tough first half schedule.  They may have a huge roster turnover ahead with an expected poor 2021 showing.

College Football Monday – Week 1

Live Fans Ring in the New 2021 College Football Season

#1 Bama Rolls Over Miami
Georgia and Penn St. Post Strong Victories in Key Matchups

Teams of Week – Georgia and Penn St.
     Upset of the Week – UCLA over LSU – 38-27

Offensive Player of Week – QB Bryce Young – Alabama
Defensive Player of Week – DT Jordan Davis – Georgia
 
Upcoming Key Weekly Matchups – 9/11
        Oregon @ Ohio St, Iowa @ Iowa St.

Legendary Former HC Bobby Bowden Honored at Notre Dame- Florida St Opener
Irish Beat a Fired up Seminole Club in Overtime

The 2021 college football season is here with millions of avid fans finally getting to attend live games. America’s campuses were alive this Labor Day weekend with a wide range of games, many highly competitive games that had immediate impact on the top 25 rankings. Alabama stays the course with a strong victory, though other highly regarded clubs disappointed and either lost or struggled to hold off an opponent.

The Notre Dame-Florida St. matchup honored the passing of legendary former Seminole HC Bobby Bowden. The honoring of Bobby Bowden comes after his passing earlier this year at 91. Bowden was an outstanding coach who won two national titles and numerous ACC honors. He set a high standard at FSU and one of the true gentlemen in the sports who I am proud to call a friend. The game was a thriller as the Irish survived relinquishing an 18-point early lead to recover in overtime and win vs a charged-up FSU club. The closely contested game might bode well for the Seminoles this season after producing three consecutive sub .500 seasons.

#1 ranked Alabama opened with a powerful bashing of Miami behind new starting QB soph Bryce Young who threw for 4 TDs and 344 yards. Bama rolled despite half new starters many of offense. Miami was never in the game as the Tide posted over 500 yards on offense in an impressive opener.

HC Nick Sabin never losses a step despite the large roster turnover and plugs in the next SEC star. Young threw only 22 passes as a true freshman behind Mac Jones last season, though ran the Bama offense flawlessly vs Miami. The Tide has turned into a QB factory in recent years after years of savvy poised leaders with only average type athleticism and NFL talent. Currently, three recent young Bama QBs will start this week in the NFL, rookie Mac Jones and veterans Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts.

The Crimson Tide tough defense held Miami to just 88 yards rushing while picking off 2 passes in a dominant performance. They hold the #1 ranking off the strong opener and await their SEC opener in later September.

Both the Georgia-Clemson and Penn St – Wisconsin matchups were excellent games in a display of old-time college football centered around ground games, field position and strong defenses. The Georgia Clemson game featured two Heisman Trophy candidates in QBs, JT Daniels and DJ Uiagalelei. Both were harassed throughout the defensive struggle and neither were able to get comfortable in the pocket. Both few for less than 200 yards and 1 key interception. Neither ground game was impressive with Clemson being held to 2 yards. Georgia celebrated the huge win over a top 5 club, hoping to ride this momentum into the tough SEC schedule. This highly successful program has come up short vs the elite clubs that has kept them an also ran in the powerful SEC. Clemson was held to a pathetic 2 yards that put enormous pressure on their passing game.

The Penn St- Wisconsin matchup was reminiscent of a ’80 or ‘90s Big Ten classic. Both teams attempted to run with ball with little success. Wisconsin plays the old school game of run the ball and if it fails, continue to run the ball. They posted 174 yards on the ground and held an incredible 42:51 minutes to 17:09 advantage, though not able to total more than 10 points. Even the return of the Dance Around at the start of the 4^th quarter could not generate more than a final FG in the 16-10 loss. Three turnovers killed the Badgers with the opportunistic Nittany Lion defense keeping them in the game until second half heroics pulled out the victory.

Ohio St-Minnesota. The Gophers gained a 14-10 halftime lead and had their eyes on a huge upside. The Buckeyes responded with a 35-point second half that sealed the 45-31 win. The Gophers lost star runner Mohamed Ibrahim to a knee injury that most likely ends his season and possibly his college career.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Thorpe, Nagurski, Lombardi, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN 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.

Bama, Oklahoma, Clemson & Ohio St Top Polls

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 Teams – Sept. 2nd

      Game of Week – Sept. 4th
#1 Alabama (0-0) vs # Miami (0-0) at Atlanta – 3 pm ABC

Top 25 Teams –  Draft Insiders’ –
 

Rank    Team        Record
1          Alabama            0-0
2          Oklahoma         0-0
3          Clemson            0-0
4          Ohio State         0-0
5          Georgia              0-0
6          Notre Dame      0-0
7          Texas A&M       0-0
8          Iowa State         0-0
9          North Carolina  0-0
10        Cincinnati          0-0
11        USC                     0-0
12        Florida               0-0
13        LSU                    0-0
14        Oregon               0-0
15        Wisconsin         0-0
16        Indiana              0-0
17        Iowa                   0-0
18        Miami                0-0
19        Texas                  0-0
20        Washington      0-0
21        Oklahoma State  0-0
22        Penn State           0-0
23        Louisiana             0-0
24        Coastal Carolina  0-0
25        Ole Miss               0-0

Coaches Poll

Rank    Team           Record   Pts
1          Alabama (63)      0-0        1621
2          Clemson              0-0        1508
3          Oklahoma (2)     0-0        1481
4          Ohio State          0-0        1435
5          Georgia               0-0        1386
6          Texas A&M        0-0        1286
7          Notre Dame       0-0        1139
8          Iowa State          0-0        1131
9          North Carolina  0-0        999
10        Cincinnati           0-0        979
11        Florida                 0-0        870
12        Oregon                0-0        842
13        LSU                     0-0        664
14        USC                     0-0        655
15        Wisconsin          0-0        654
16        Miami                0-0        575
17        Indiana              0-0        573
18        Iowa                  0-0        554
19        Texas                 0-0        427
20        Penn State        0-0        422
21        Washington         0-0        404
22        Oklahoma State   0-0        216
23        Louisiana              0-0        153
24        Coastal Carolina  0-0      150
25        Ole Miss                0-0        149

Others receiving votes: Utah 145, Northwestern 120, Arizona State 90, Auburn 84, Liberty 68, BYU 53, TCU 48, Michigan 30, UCF 29, NC State 27, Boise State 27, Kentucky 20, San José State 18, Army 13, Virginia Tech 9, Missouri 8, UCLA 7, Pittsburgh 6, Tulsa 6, Boston College 6, Ball State 5, Houston 5, SMU 4, Appalachian State 4, West Virginia 4, Arkansas 3, UAB 3, Nevada 2, Air Force 2, Mississippi State 2, Marshall 1, Florida State 1, California 1, Stanford 1

NFL 2021 Supplemental Draft – Cancelled

The NFL will not hold a Supplemental Draft in 2021 it was announced prior to the 4^th of July break. It was the 2^nd year in a row there was not a Supplemental Draft. Over the past 10 years, no players have been chosen in 6 of those 10 years.

Under the league’s collective bargaining agreement, the NFL has the right to decide whether to conduct a supplemental draft each year. Last year, the league cancelled mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

After the league cancelled last year’s supplemental draft, those potential draft picks did not gain free-agent status, but could instead be entered into the 2021 NFL Draft. Expect the league to deliver the same directive to those hoping to enter the supplemental draft this year.

Supplemental drafts operate differently than the annual draft, with teams instead submitting bids on prospects based on the round in which they’d like to select a player. If they are awarded the player, they then forfeit their equivalent pick in the traditional draft in the following year.

The last player chosen in a recent supplemental draft (2019) saw one player selected in Washington St safety Jalen Thompson by the Arizona Cardinals in the 5th round.

With such little interest by NFL clubs, this special player selection process should be cancelled for a few reasons. First, no significant player has been chosen since wideout Josh Gordon by the Browns in the 2nd round of the 2012 Supplemental Draft. He actually set a new NFL record for 200 yard receiving games and high short term production in a few seasons. He has struggled qualifying for many seasons with testing positive repeatedly. LB Ahmad Brooks was chosen in the 3rd round of the 2006 Supplemental Draft and he had a productive career starting for the Bengals.  Virtually every other selection over the past 20 year period was at best marginal starters or short term backups. Drafted players obviously miss Rookie and Veteran mini camps and have only two or three weeks to prepare for training camp where they enter the process at a distinct disadvantage to earn a roster spot.

NFL Draft 2021 – Review

Overview

      The 2021 NFL Draft was the 86th annual meeting of National Football League teams to select newly eligible players for the upcoming NFL season. The first round was held on April 29, followed by the second and third rounds on April 30. The draft concluded with rounds 4–7 on May 1. The NFL held the event live in Cleveland, Ohio with limited attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. All team selections took place from Cleveland with league commissioner Roger Goodell announcing the early selections from the podium.

 Five quarterbacks were selected in the first round – Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, Justin Fields, and Mac Jones. It was the second highest number of first-round QB selections (tied with the 1999 & 2018 drafts) after the record six selected in 1983. The draft also marks the third time the first three picks (Lawrence, Wilson, and Lance) were QBs, following the 1971 and 1999 draft classes. A total of eight QBs selected in the first three rounds, the most in NFL Draft history. Conversely, however, only two QBs were taken in rounds four through seven. The 2021 class also marked the lowest position for the first defensive player selected in a given draft in the common era, with the Carolina Panthers’ selection of Jaycee Horn at the eighth overall choice.

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In addition to the high number of QBs, six Alabama players were taken in the first round, which tied with the six Miami players in 2004 for the most 1st-round selections from an individual school. Conversely, no Big 12 Conference players were drafted in the first round for the first time since the conference’s 1994 establishment. The draft also saw no Michigan State players selected for the first time in 80 years.

 The NCAA granted an extra year of eligibility and an opt-out option for athletes because of the shortened season, resulting in many prospects returning to school instead of declaring for this draft class.

 2020 Resolution JC-2A picks
         In November 2020 the NFL passed that year’s Resolution JC-2A, which rewards teams for developing minority candidates for head coach and/or general manager positions. The resolution rewards teams whose minority candidates are hired away for one of those positions by awarding draft picks. These draft picks are at the end of the third round, after standard compensatory picks. If multiple teams qualify, they are awarded in draft order from the first round. These picks are in addition to, and have no impact on, the standard 32 compensatory picks. Four picks have been awarded for the draft pursuant to the resolution.

 San Francisco received 2021, 2022, and 2023 third-round selections when its defensive coordinator Robert Saleh was hired by the New York Jets as head coach and its vice president of player personnel Martin Mayhew was  hired by Washington as general manager.

 Los Angeles Rams received 2021 and 2022 third-round selections when their college scouting director Brad Holmes was hired by Detroit as general manager.

 Baltimore received 2021 and 2022 third-round selections when its assistant head coach and passing game coordinator David Culley was hired by Houston as head coach.

 New Orleans received 2021 and 2022 third-round selections when its director of pro scouting Terry Fontenot was hired by Atlanta as general manager.

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Overview
259 Total selections in 7 rounds
First selection – Jacksonville Jaguars – QB Trevor Lawrence
Last selection – ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ – Tampa Bucs – LB Grant Stuard
Most selections (11) – Carolina Panthers, Dallas Cowboys & Minnesota Vikings
Fewest selections (3) – Seattle Seahawks

The following is the breakdown of the 259 players selected in NFL Draft 2021 by position:
38 cornerbacks
36 wide receivers
34 defensive ends
25 offensive tackles
21 linebackers
21 safeties
19 defensive tackles
18 running backs
13 offensive guards
11 tight ends
10 quarterbacks
8 centers
2 long snappers
1 fullback
1 placekicker
1 punter

Selections by NCAA Conference
A new record-high 65 players were drafted from the SEC, the most in NFL history, surpassing the previous number of selections, 64, in 2019 which was also the set by the SEC.

Selections by NCAA Conference
  NCAA Division I FBS Conference  Totals
American – 19
ACC – 42
Big 12 – 22
Big Ten – 44
C-USA – 4
Ind. (FBS) – 15
MAC – 4
MW – 3
Pac-12 – 28
SEC – 65
Sun Belt – 4

Schools with multiple draft selections
    Selections Schools
10 Alabama, Ohio State
9 Georgia, Notre Dame
8 Florida, Michigan
7 LSU
6 Kentucky, Penn State, Pittsburgh
5 BYU, Clemson, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Stanford, Texas, UCF, USC
4 Auburn, Cincinnati, Duke, Florida State, Iowa, Miami (Fl), Oklahoma State, South Carolina, Texas A&M,
Virginia Tech, Washington
3 Houston, Northwestern, Wisconsin
2 Arizona, Boise State, Boston College, Georgia Tech, Illinois, Louisville, Minnesota, Mississippi State,
Nebraska, North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, Ole Miss, Oregon State, Purdue, SMU, Syracuse, TCU,
Tennessee, Texas Tech, Tulane, UCLA, Western Michigan

Selections by Position
Position Rd 1 Rd 2 Rd 3 Rd 4 Rd 5 Rd 6 Rd 7 Total
Center –  8
Cornerbacks – 38
Defensive end – 34
Defensive tackle – 19
Fullback –  1
Guard – 13
Kicker –  1
Linebacker  – 21
Long snapper – 2
Offensive tackle – 25
Punter – 1
Quarterback – 10
Running back – 18
Safety –  21
Tight end – 11
Wide receiver – 36

First Round Mock Draft for the NFL Draft 2021

    Final Edition – Prior to NFL Draft 2021  
* Underclassmen

‘From a Generational QB to Amen’

# / Team / Player / Pos / School
First Round

1 Jacksonville * Trevor Lawrence QB Clemson
HC Urban Meyer came out of retirement for a generational starting QB.

2 NY Jets * Zach Wilson QB Brigham Young
Jets moved starter QB Sam Darnold and turns the page with new leader Wilson.

3 San Fran (Hous-Miami) * Mac Jones QB Alabama
49ers traded the ranch for this pick that may define the club over next decade.

4 Atlanta * Kyle Pitts TE Florida
Falcons need playmakers and Pitts is a versatile rare receiver and difference maker.

5 Cincinnati * Penei Sewell OT Oregon
Bengals want this blue-chip tackle to protect Joe Burrow.

6 Miami (Philadelphia) * Ja’Marr Chase WR LSU
Dolphins need a true #1 receiver and this rookie starter has big play talent.

7 Detroit * Justin Fields QB Ohio St
Lions begin a new regime and getting a young QB is the next step.

8 Carolina * Jaylen Waddle WR Alabama
The Panthers need to give young passer Sam Darnald a new big play threat.

9 Denver * Trey Lance QB North Dakota St
Broncos looking to add high quality starter and Lance fits perfectly sitting behind young Drew Lock.

10 Dallas * Patrick Surtain CB Alabama
Cowboys have a lot of needs, yet Surtain is an early plug and play cover man.

11 NY Giants Rashawn Slater OT Northwestern
GMen select future Pro Bowler after debating a lineman, receiver or corner here.

12 Phil (San Fran-Miami) * Jaycee Horn CB South Carolina
Eagles need a cover man to couple with Darius Slay.

13 LA Chargers * Christian Darrisaw OT Virginia Tech
Chargers looking to protect blindside for talented Justin Herbert.

14 Minnesota DeVonta Smith WR Alabama
Vikings looking to add weapons in this class.

15 New England * Micah Parsons LB Penn State
Impact defender would excel in Belichick’s defense.

16 Arizona * Alijah Vera-Tucker OT Southern Cal
Cards looking to address offense early and this blocker carries a rookie starting grade.

17 Las Vegas * Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah LB Notre Dame
Raiders looking to add perimeter speed and JOK is a hybrid blue chip backer.

18 Miami Teven Jenkins OT Oklahoma St
Dolphins looking to protect Tua’s blindside and Jenkins is a beast and can start as a rookie here.

19 Washington Travis Etienne RB Clemson
WFT needs playmakers and Etienne feels home here.

20 Chicago * Caleb Farley CB Virginia Tech
Bears need cover men and Farley is a blue-chip prospect and early NFL starter.

21 Indianapolis Liam Eichenberg OT Notre Dame
Colts must replace LT Castanzo and Eichenberg forms Irish left side of line with Nelson.

22 Tennessee * Greg Newsome CB Northwestern
Titans’ coverage is weak and will undergo major changes.

23 NY Jets (Seattle) * Jaelan Phillips DE Miami
Jets looking to improve pass rush and Phillips brings the juice.

24 Pittsburgh Najee Harris RB Alabama
Steelers need a beast and Harris is the ideal fit in Steel City.

25 Jacksonville (Rams) * Gregory Rousseau DE Miami
Jaguars need an edge rusher to improve their rebuilt defense.

26 Cleveland Kwity Paye DE Michigan
Browns must provide more edge pressure opposite DE Garrett and Clowney might be one and done.

27 Baltimore Elijah Moore WR Mississippi
Ravens probably add a wideout early to open up this offense.

28 New Orleans * Eric Stokes CB Georgia
Saints looking to add a quality cover man early in the process.

29 Green Bay Kadarius Toney WR Florida
Packers better start building a stronger cast around Rodgers.

30 Buffalo * Joe Tryon LB Washington
Bills looking a land an edge playmaker and could pull the trigger in the first round.

31 Balt (Kansas City) * Zaven Collins LB Tulsa
Ravens need impact off the edge and Collins could be a rookie starter here.

32 Tampa Bay * Azeez Ojulari LB Georgia
Bucs loading cannon to repeat and another edge rusher would be a great addition.

Top 100 Prospects for NFL Draft 2021

     Final Rankings – April 27, 2021

1 Trevor Lawrence               QB          Clemson
2 Kyle Pitts                            TE           Florida
3 Penei Sewell                      OT           Oregon
4 Zach Wilson                       QB          Brigham Young
5 Ja’Marr Chase                   WR          LSU
6 Rashawn Slater                OT           Northwestern
7 Jaylen Waddle                  WR          Alabama
8 Patrick Surtain                  CB          Alabama
9 Jaycee Horn                      CB          South Carolina
10 Justin Fields                    QB          Ohio State
11 Micah Parsons                OLB        Penn State
12 Mac Jones                       QB          Alabama
13 Trey Lance                      QB          North Dakota State
14 DeVonta Smith               WR          Alabama
15 Jaelan Phillips                 DE          Miami
16 Christian Darrisaw         OT           Virginia Tech
17 Alijah Vera-Tucker         OG          Southern Cal
18 Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah  LB Notre Dame
19 Kwity Paye                       DE          Michigan
20 Teven Jenkins                OT           Oklahoma State
21 Caleb Farley                    CB          Virginia Tech
22 Kadarius Toney              WR          Florida
23 Greg Newsome               CB          Northwestern
24 Elijah Moore                   WR          Mississippi
25 Liam Eichenberg            OT           Notre Dame
26 Gregory Rousseau         DE          Miami
27 Jamin Davis                    LB           Kentucky
28 Azeez Ojulari                  OLB        Georgia
29 Samuel Cosmi                OT           Texas
30 Jayson Oweh                 OLB        Penn State
31 Trevon Moehrig              S             Texas Christian
32 Najee Harris                    RB           Alabama
33 Zaven Collins                  OLB        Tulsa
34 Terrace Marshall            WR          LSU
35 Joe Tryon                         OLB        Washington
36 Travis Etienne                 RB           Clemson
37 Landon Dickerson          C             Alabama
38 Asante Samuel                CB          Florida State
39 Rashod Bateman            WR          Minnesota
40 Eric Stokes                       CB          Georgia
41 Javonte Williams            RB           North Carolina
42 Creed Humphrey           C             Oklahoma
43 Levi Onwuzurike            DT           Washington
44 Jevon Holland                S             Oregon
45 Jalen Mayfield                OT           Michigan
46 Davis Mills                      QB          Stanford
47 Christian Barmore         DT           Alabama
48 Kelvin Joseph                 CB          Kentucky
49 Dillon Radunz                OT           North Dakota State
50 Rondale Moore              WR          Purdue
51 Nick Bolton                      OLB        Missouri
52 Carlos Basham                DE          Wake Forest
53 Pat Freiermuth                TE           Penn State
54 D’Wayne Eskridge          WR          Western Michigan
55 Alex Leatherwood          OG          Alabama
56 Quinn Meinerz                C             Wisconsin-Whitewater
57 Alim McNeill                    DT           North Carolina State
58 Aaron Robinson              CB          Central Florida
59 Walker Little                    OT           Stanford
60 Daviyon Nixon                DT           Iowa
61 Elijah Molden                  CB          Washington
62 Pete Werner                    OLB        Ohio State
63 Ifeatu Melifonwu            CB          Syracuse
64 Wyatt Davis                     OG          Ohio State
65 Joseph Ossai                   OLB        Texas
66 Hunter Long                    TE           Boston College
67 Caden Sterns                    S             Texas
68 Tyson Campbell              CB          Georgia
69 Richie Grant                     S             Central Florida
70 Jabril Cox                         OLB        LSU
71 Dyami Brown                   WR          North Carolina
72 Ronnie Perkins                DE          Oklahoma
73 Paulson Adebo                CB          Stanford
74 Nico Collins                     WR          Michigan
75 Kyle Trask                        QB          Florida
76 Trey Smith                       OG          Tennessee
77 Amon-Ra St. Brown       WR          Southern California
78 Rashad Weaver               DE          Pittsburgh
79 Amari Rodgers                WR          Clemson
80 Jordan Smith                  DE          Alabama-Birmingham
81 Chazz Surratt                  OLB        North Carolina
82 Brady Christensen         OT           Brigham Young
83 Shaun Wade                    CB          Ohio State
84 Milton Williams              DE          Louisiana Tech
85 Baron Browning              ILB          Ohio State
86 Jackson Carman             OT           Clemson
87 Spencer Brown                OT           Northern Iowa
88 Dylan Moses                    ILB          Alabama
89 Michael Carter                RB           North Carolina
90 Andre Cisco                     S             Syracuse
91 Brevin Jordan                 TE           Miami
92 Jay Tufele                        DT           Southern California
93 Hamsah Nasirildeen      S             Florida State
94 Deonte Brown                 OG          Alabama
95 Ambry Thomas               CB          Michigan
96 JaCoby Stevens               S             LSU
97 Josh Myers                       C             Ohio State
98 Ihmir Smith-Marsette   WR          Iowa
99 Aaron Banks                    OG          Notre Dame
100 Tutu Atwell                    WR          Louisville