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

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

SMU Mustangs: Vegas Win Total- 7

Again this is another close line, but SMU won ten games last season and return a ton of firepower. The Mustangs were phenomenal last season and even shined when the lights were brightest, which is a real testament to how quickly Sonny Dykes has moved the needle in Dallas. With a national top-10 offense returning seven key starters and a defense that was top five in both sacks and recovered fumbles returning six starters, I lean on the over. This team has momentum and a favorable schedule, with their toughest games being at home. Prediction- Over 7

Top Prospects:

Reggie Roberson Jr., WR, 6-0, 200 pounds, Sr.: The West Virginia transfer made a wise move as he immediately became a star for the Mustangs earning All-AAC honors and averaging 18.7 yards per reception before a foot injury forced him to miss the final five games. With James Proche departing, Roberson will be tasked with a much larger role and this should help his stock immensely if healthy. He may be viewed as the best receiver in the nation by seasons end.

Shane Buechele, QB, 6-1, 207 pounds, Sr.: Buechele has a huge cannon and used it to elevate this program as a grad transfer from Texas. SMU won 10 games for the first time since 1984 and Buechele was the biggest reason why. His name is etched all over the school’s single-season record books as he torched defenses for 3,929 passing yards and 34 passing touchdowns. The All-AAC selection was efficient as well completing 62.7% of his passes and again this is a guy that is not afraid to go deep.

Kylen Granson, TE, 6-3, 235 pounds, Sr.: After the injury to Roberson, Granson really thrived and earned his All-AAC stripes. He has the makings of an effective move tight end in the NFL and will be looking to build off of his extremely impressive 2019 numbers of 721 receiving yards, 43 receptions and nine touchdowns.