AAC Preview: 2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch and team predictions

Josh Keatley takes a dive into the win totals and top prospects for each AAC team in 2020

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

East Carolina Pirates: Vegas Win Total- 3.5

East Carolina won four games last season in Mike Houston’s first year as head coach and they do return their quarterback and have a dynamic young leading receiver, but this defense is not good. The Pirates’ defense is rough; specifically, their defensive line is one of the worst in the AAC. The line at 3.5 is too close to comfort, but I do think this team takes a step back: Prediction: Under 3.5

Top Prospects:

D’Ante Smith, OT, 6-4, 289 pounds, Sr.: Smith is an All-AAC selection and is the diamond in the rough on the otherwise underwhelming ECU offensive line. Smith is a star and has the potential to play at the next level.

C.J. Johnson, WR, 6-2, 229 pounds, So.: A Freshman All-American and All-AAC selection, Johnson has a few years of eligibility left and will look to build upon his team-leading 908 yards and 54 receptions from last season.

Jake Verity, K, 6-1, 197 pounds, Sr.: No one is more locked into their starting gig than the All-AAC selection in Verity. He nailed 24 of his 29 field goal attempts and all of his 33 PAT attempts last season. Verity also handles kickoff duties.