Tag: NFL draft rankings

2020 NFL Combine: Safety Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the safety prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the safety prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Safety

Date: Sunday, March 1: Safeties
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the safetiesinvited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Safety Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

27. L’Jarius Sneed, Louisiana Tech 6-1, 193 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: The team’s second-leading tackler was a big producer with great ball skills over the last two years, he has to turn into a safety. He’s a corner trying to be a safety.

26. Daniel Thomas, Auburn 5-11, 209 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Are the ball skills there? He produced as a part of the puzzle for four years and turned into a whale of a tackler over the last two years, but he did next to nothing when the ball was in the air. Can that be worked on?

25. Chris Miller, Baylor 6-0, 191 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Undersized, he was good at bringing the pop when needed for the Bears, but he didn’t do nearly enough when the ball was in the air last year. Something about his workout has to make him more than a special teamer.

24. Jaylinn Hawkins, Cal 6-2, 210 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: The short drills have to rock. The size, length, and college prediction are all there, but he has to show he can cut on a dime at an NFL level.

23. Rodney Clemons, SMU 6-0, 205 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A high-volume tackler who made a whole lot of plays when the ball was in the air with four picks last year. He doesn’t have a big frame and needs to show off the wheels to make up for it – he’s a safety tweener.

22. Geno Smith, Iowa 5-10, 210 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A really nice piece-of-the-puzzle safety, he might be undersized, but a good workout makes him draftable as a good flier who really might make it as more than a special teamer.

21. Kamren Curl, Arkansas 6-2, 198 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Tall, productive, and versatile enough to be used as a corner, he’s missing a true NFL trait. He’s not a corner at the next level, and he’s not a big enough hitter to thrive at safety.

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20. Tanner Muse, Clemson 6-2, 230 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’s not an NFL linebacker, even though he’s built like one. He’s not an NFL safety, even though he’s good when the ball is in the air. He’s a terrific football player who’ll be a tough cut – but he has to find a role.

19. Jalen Elliott, Notre Dame 6-1, 205 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he be more than a flier? Teams will love him as a possible core special teamer, but he has to run and move like a draftable defensive back, too.

18. Josh Metellus, Michigan 5-11, 210 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: All run D, questionable wheels. He might be a high-riser in the process with a few good times in the drills. He’s what teams want in run support, but he has to prove he can be an NFL coverman.

17. Brian Cole, Mississippi State 6-2, 205 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: He doesn’t have a set job. He’s a tough guy who could work as an undersized linebacker, but his coverage skills are just okay. He needs to look like more than core special teamer.

16. Alohi Gilman, Notre Dame 5-11, 202 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: The Navy transfer to Notre Dame isn’t going to lack for effort. He’ll hit and he’ll make himself into an NFL player in some way, but he has to put up some good times to be more than a good special teams option.

15. Shyheim Carter, Alabama 6-0, 191 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: A good-sized all-around playmaker for the Crimson Tide, he’s good when the ball is in the air – one pick last year with seven broken up passes – and he’ll hit, but he needs to show off the quickness in the short drills.

14. Jordan Fuller, Ohio State 6-2, 205 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Where is he going to play? He’s going to look like the right type of NFL safety size-wise, and he’s a good hitter, but he has to run well and look like he can handle himself against the decent next-level wide receivers.

 

13. K’Von Wallace, Clemson 5-11, 199 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Considering he’s a force when he gets to bring the thump, but can he cover anyone? There isn’t a set role for him at the next level, but if he runs and moves well, someone will like all there is to work with.

12. Antoine Brooks, Maryland 5-11, 215 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Just find a spot for him. He’s a smart all-around player who should be a nice value pick, but he has to find a role somewhere. He’s not a prototypical NFL safety.

11. Brandon Jones, Texas 6-0, 205 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: He needs to crush the 40 – or at least not be lumbering. He’ll never shy away from popping someone, and coaches will love his effort, but does he have the raw speed?

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10. JR Reed, Georgia 6-1, 194 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Built like a corner, he’s a nice all-around defensive back who can tackle in the open field and make enough plays to find a job as a good free safety, but don’t expect any thump at the next level. If possible, he has to look physical.

9. Julian Blackmon, Utah 6-1, 204 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: An interesting tweener, he’s a big corner who’s just growing into the safety job. He’s got the size and the skills, but how healthy is the knee he hurt late in the season, and how much work does he need to be a top starting NFL safety?

8. Jeremy Chinn, Southern Illinois 6-3, 219 (3) 
NFL Combine What Matters: Size, size, size. He was a terrific tackler a the FCS level with the speed and potential to become a great mid-round prospect to develop. He might need seasoning, but one great workout with his size will push him into the fourth round or better.

7. Terrell Burgess, Utah 5-11, 192 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he work his way into the second round? He’s not huge, but he’ll tackle, he’ll move, and he’ll have a high ceiling. However, he needs a little bit of work and technique refining.

6. Kyle Dugger, Lenoir-Rhyne, 6-1, 220 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: Blow … it … up. Talk all you want about playing at the lower-level – and everyone will – but a guy with this size and this speed and this sort of movement needs to get a much longer look. There’s no way to measure whether or not he can make the massive leap in competition, but it’s his job to look like he will.

NEXT: Top 5 Safety Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

Pages: Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, Page 5, Page 6

2020 NFL draft: Updated prospect rankings for every position

Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling updates his prospect rankings for every position group in the 2020 NFL draft

The predraft process is rolling on, as the Senior Bowl is in the books and the NFL Scouting Combine is next on the horizon.

As teams and prospects alike continue to prepare for Indy and beyond, here’s an updated look at my prospect rankings for every position group in the 2020 NFL draft class:

Quarterback

Running Back

Wide Receiver

Tight End

Offensive Tackle

Interior Offensive Line

Edge Defender

Interior Defensive Line

Linebacker

Cornerback

Safety

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2020 NFL Combine: Cornerback Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the cornerback prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the cornerback prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Cornerbacks

Date: Sunday, March 1: Cornerbacks
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the cornerbacks invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Cornerback Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

35. Stantley Thomas-Oliver, FIU 6-2, 184 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Very tall with a great frame and a whole lot of good college production, there has to be a speed element – he has to give coordinators a reason to be developed. He’ll look the part, though.

34. Reggie Robinson, Tulsa 6-1, 197 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: While he’ll look the part and should come up with a decent workout, is he a free agent safety or a corner? He’s a good football player, but there has to be one standout NFL tool in the box.

33. Josiah Scott, Michigan State 5-10, 171 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Great college player, doesn’t quite have it for the NFL – he has to prove otherwise. He’ll hit and he’ll attack the ball, but he’s undersized and might not have a set next-level role.

32. James Pierre, Florida Atlantic 6-2, 185 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A very, very nice all-around college player with good size … does he have a role? Does he have the speed? He’s one good 40 away from being a top priority free agent.

31. Thakarius Keyes, Tulane 6-1, 200 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Also known as BoPete, he’s a very big corner who looks the part, but can he run? A fantastic 40 gets him drafted, and he could at least be a star special teamer.

30. Javelin Guidry, Utah 5-9, 193 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Speed, speed, speed. He can fly, and that has to be enough to overcome his lack of bulk and the work he needs to do to refine himself as an NFL corner. He has to be more than a special teamer.

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29. Nevelle Clarke, UCF 6-1, 187 ((7)
NFL Combine What Matters: With great length and a productive resumé, he’s got the range, but he needs to rock the quickness drills.

28. John Reid, Penn State 5-10, 181 (Free Agent) 
NFL Combine What Matters: Is everything cool with a knee that cost him his 2017 season? He had a strong final two years after that, but does he have the raw quickness to go along with his playmaking ability?

27. Myles Bryant, Washington 5-9, 185 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: A good, tough, productive tackler, he needs to find a spot and look the part of a corner rather than a smallish tweener.

26. Essang Bassey, Wake Forest 5-9, 190 (4) 
NFL Combine What Matters: A better player than an NFL athlete, he has to show enough to get past his lack of bulk. His fight is better than his bulk.

25. Trajan Bandy, Miami 5-9, 186 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: He needs a whole lot of work and he’s not a hitter, so can he be so athletic that he’ll be worth the effort?

24. Javaris Davis, Auburn 5-10, 180 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: A good-sized tackler who isn’t afraid to get physical, something has to standout from the pack to look like a top 100 pick.

23. Lavert Hill, Michigan 5-11, 192 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: One of the more interesting corners, he’s got the toughness and the pop, but can he move well enough? He could be a fringe top 100 pick with a great workout, or he could fall through the floor, but someone will love his style.

22. Harrison Hand, Temple 6-0, 192 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he look, run and move like an NFL corner? He’s a good football player and he has decent size, but at least one great time would do wonders.

21. Michael Ojemudia, Iowa 6-0, 200 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: The NFL tools have to blow things up. He’s an okay player who wasn’t bad at coming up with picks. but someone will have to find a role for him.

20. Grayland Arnold, Baylor 5-10, 190 (6) 
NFL Combine What Matters: Versatile, he can play just about anywhere in the secondary. Can he run like an NFL corner? His 40 time will matter.

19. AJ Green, Oklahoma State 6-1, 199 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’s got the length and the right frame, but does he have the raw skills and timing numbers? Can he move like an elite corner and look great in the quickness drills?

18. Troy Pride, Notre Dame 5-11, 194 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Fast, fast, fast. He was okay with the Irish with decent stats, but his stock will be about his wheels. NFL teams will find something to do with him if he runs as expected.

17. Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech 5-9, 183 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: He has to do enough to make everyone overlook his size. He’s a smallish player who made a LOT of big plays for the Bulldog D. Forget about him against the run, but can he fly and can he make everyone look back at the tape?

16. Darnay Holmes, UCLA 5-10, 192 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Undersized but tough, he’s a battler with fantastic ball skills, but he has to be great in the short drills. At his size, he has to be in the top half of the quickest corners.

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15. Lamar Jackson, Nebraska 6-2, 206 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Someone will find a place for him, but where? Is he a corner or a safety? He’s really big, but he needs to run like an NFL cornerback.

14. Dane Jackson, Pitt 6-0, 180 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: An elite playmaker on the ball with 12 broken up passes last year, he’s a smart, tough playmaker. How smooth is he? Is he fluid?

13. Jaylon Johnson, Utah 6-0, 195 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: He has to be the guy who makes everyone buzz. He can beat up receivers, and he’ll have a few great numbers in the workouts, but he has to run well to go along with what should be a top vertical.

12. Stanford Samuels, Florida State 6-2, 185 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Get ready for him to be one of the more polarizing prospects. He’s tall with a great frame and he can play, but he just doesn’t quite look the part. He could go anywhere from the late third to the early sixth depending on his workout.

11. Kindle Vildor, Georgia Southern 5-10, 185 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: The tools aren’t going to be there. He’s too small, not a blazer, and he isn’t going to do much against an NFL running game, but he’s always around the ball. Something about his workouts have to standout, though.

10. Noah Igbinoghene, Auburn 5-11, 200 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a whole lot to like as a tough corner or a potentially great safety – one great combine makes him a must-have. It might take a little work, but the upside is massive.

9. Damon Arnette, Ohio State 6-0, 195 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: What are his times in the short drills? He’s a good football player and can hit, but just how quick-twitch is he?

8. Cameron Dantzler, Mississippi State 6-2, 185 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: This is his shot to move up into a top 50 prospect and possibly a first rounder. He has the size and he’s about to show off as one of the best athletes in Indy.

7. AJ Terrell, Clemson 6-1, 190 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: Opinions on him are going to be all over the place. He’s an interesting baller of a corner who doesn’t necessarily look quite right – he looks like a wideout – but he’s got the skills to be a Day One starter. His 40 will be everything, at least in Indy.

6. Jeff Gladney, TCU 6-0, 183 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: As tough as any corner in Indy, he’ll battle, scrap and come up with a whole lot of tackles. Will the scouts be okay with his smallish body type? A good 40 is a must.

NEXT: Top 5 Cornerback Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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2020 NFL Combine: Tight End Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the tight end prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the tight end prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Tight Ends

Date: Thursday, February 27: Tight Ends
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the tight ends invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Tight End Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

20. Charlie Taumoepeau, Portland State 6-2, 245 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Just good enough as a blocker to earn a look, he doesn’t have the size to be a full-time tight end as a pass catcher. Something about him has to stand out to get past his lack of height and FCS background.

19. Dominick Wood-Anderson, Tennessee 6-4, 257 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A tools guy, he looks like an NFL tight end, and he’s going to workout like an NFL tight end. Now he has to show something to make scouts think there’s something there to work with.

18. Charlie Woerner, Georgia 6-5, 245 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s not a lot there as an NFL talent, but he could stick on a roster as a blocker and mid-range receiver. He was a four-year player with 34 career catches and one touchdown – what does he have to be a whole lot better at the next level?

17. Cheyenne (CJ) O’Grady, Arkansas 6-4, 256 (7)
NFL Combine What Matters: The interview process will mean everything. He has the NFL talent and receiving skills, but the problems at Arkansas – suspended before leaving the team – will be the question mark.

16. Stephen Sullivan, LSU 6-5, 242 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: With tweener skills and a great motor, he could make a team as a special teamer who fits in two tight end sets. However, he has to show off the NFL speed to get there.

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15. Sean McKeon, Michigan 6-5, 238 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’ll be draftable if he looks the part of a possible receiver. He might not have the bulk, but he can hit. Can he look like a reliable NFL target?

14. Dalton Keene, Virginia Tech 6-4, 251 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Does he have a set spot? He can block, he can catch, and he can do it all, but he doesn’t do any one thing at an NFL level. Some team will love his blocking, but everyone will look to see what he can do in workouts as a receiver.

13. Josiah Deguara, Cincinnati 6-3, 245 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Yeah, he might be able to make a team as a blocker, but can he come up with anything for an NFL passing game? He has to look like more than a potential No. 2 tight end.

12. Mitchell Wilcox, USF 6-5, 245 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: A nice mix of all-around talent – including as a blocker – to be a good mid-to-late flier, but he needs to come up with something that stands out from the pack. The times and numbers need to open eyes.

11. Jacob Breeland, Oregon 6-5, 250 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: He has to look like there’s a set tight end position for him. He’s more like a big wide receiver, but without the athleticism. Don’t expect a whole lot as a blocker.

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10. Thadeus Moss, LSU 6-3, 249 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Try to get away from the idea that he’s the son of Randy Moss – he’s not Randy Moss. He’ll make plays and he’ll be a part of an NFL passing game, but his money will be made early on as a blocker. The raw numbers and times will matter.

9. Hunter Bryant, Washington 6-2, 239 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Just how much will the scouts care about his lack of bulk? He’s built more like a running back, and there’s a big concern with past knee injuries, but he can really, really catch.

8. Adam Trautman, Dayton 6-5, 253 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: This is what an NFL tight end looks like, at least as a mid-range receiver. Everything is in place to workout like a superstar, but the questions will be there about the tape against FCS talent. The 40 might be overrated, but it’ll matter here.

7. Colby Parkinson, Stanford 6-7, 251 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s too much size to ignore. He’s a deep threat who averaged close to 17 yards per catch with seven scores as a sophomore, and last year he was decent despite the quarterback issues. Can he be physical enough?

6. Devin Asiasi, UCLA 6-3, 260 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: How quick can he be at 260? He’s a good, physical receiver who can stretch the field a bit. Can he look more natural as a pass catcher?

NEXT: Top 5 Tight End Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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2020 NFL Combine: Quarterback Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the quarterback prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the quarterback prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Quarterback

Date: Thursday, February 27: QB
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the quarterbacks invited to the 2020 NFL Combine – and one who isn’t.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Quarterback Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

18. James Morgan, FIU 6-4, 213 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: There are a whole lot of NFL skills to like, and it starts with a special arm. He has the smarts and the skills to grow into a good backup, but is there enough in the overall package to be draftable?

17. Shea Patterson, Michigan 6-1, 202 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a shot he goes from being a nice college quarterback to a solid NFL baller. Can he show enough arm strength to be more than a plucky backup who bounces around the league?

16. Brian Lewerke, Michigan State 6-3, 216 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Was it the team or the player? Great as a sophomore, miserable as a junior, and okay as a senior, does he have the raw skills worth developing as a key backup? He needs a workout to make him a late round flier.

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15. Cole McDonald, Hawaii 6-4, 220 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A pure short-range passer who’ll be worth a late flier, he needs to show off a decent deep arm. More than that, is there anything fixable about his throwing motion? He can throw, but does he have any NFL tools?

14. Kevin Davidson, Princeton 6-4, 225 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Everything is there but the at-bats. He has the right size, the right arm, and the right accuracy, but he’s going to need a whole lot of work with an NFL quarterback coach along with a whole lot of time.

13. Jake Luton, Oregon State 6-7, 229 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’ll show of the arm, size, and NFL passing potential to be draftable, but he suffered a frightening back injury two years ago. Everything turned out to be fine, and he was able to play, but the medical evaluation will be a key part of the puzzle.

12. Bryce Perkins, Virginia 6-3, 215 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: NOT INVITED TO THE NFL COMBINE

It doesn’t make any sense. In a year when there aren’t any amazing quarterback prospects outside of the top six or so, how is a 6-3 ultra-mobile baller who hit 65% of his throws and all but carried his team to the Orange Bowl not at least given a look in Indy? Perkins will be drafted. Several quarterbacks at the combine won’t be.

11. Kelly Bryant, Missouri 6-3, 225 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: In every workout it’ll be all about three things: accuracy, accuracy, accuracy. He has the size, mobility, and NFL arm and tools. More reps are a must, but there’s a world of upside with a little work.

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10. Anthony Gordon, Washington State 6-2, 199 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: He might not have the size, but he’s able to make every throw in the book. Arm strength is going to matter. He’ll need some developing, and he’ll be a great backup for a few years before he’s ready to roll, but he has the upside to be a higher-end Gardner Minshew or Kyle Allen.

9. Steven Montez, Colorado 6-4, 240 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: The interview process will be everything. What’s missing? Why didn’t this work? If you were to build an NFL quarterback with the right size, right arm, and right mobility, it’s all there. He was fine at Colorado, but he never grew into a superstar … again, what’s missing?

8. Nate Stanley, Iowa 6-4, 243 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he move at all? The arm, strength, and pro-style passing tools are there, but he has to show accuracy on the run and has to show off decent enough feet to learn how to buy himself more time.

7. Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma 6-1, 218 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he throw like a pro-style passer, and does that even matter? He doesn’t fit in any sort of box or a type – except for, possibly, Taysom Hill in a create-a-package way – but he’s a peerless leader that everyone will want, just because. Just draft him and figure it out.

6. Jordan Love, Utah State 6-4, 225 (Top 20 overall)
NFL Combine What Matters: GOOD LUCK, Indianapolis – and that goes for the combine and the Colts – trying to make a call. On tools and upside, you take him ten out of ten times over Jake Fromm and almost everyone else, but can he quicken his throwing motion?

Can he connect on the deep ball and not just be a mid-range passer. There’s a whole lot there, but he’s going to have to show enough to be worth a top 15 overall pick.

NEXT: Top 5 Quarterback Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the defensive end, edge rusher prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the defensive end, edge rusher prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher

Date: Saturday, February 29: Defensive Ends
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the defensive ends and edge rushers invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Defensive End, Edge Rusher Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

25. Qaadir Sheppard, Ole Miss 6-3, 252 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: More of a linebacker than an end, can he actually produce? Is he healthy? Never quite 100%, he transferred from Syracuse, came up with a solid junior season, and didn’t do much last season.

24. LaDarius Hamilton, North Texas 6-3, 260 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters:He was able to come up with 8.5 sacks as a dangerous pass rusher over the last two years, but does he have the quickness off the ball to be drafted? The raw numbers have to be excellent.

23. James Smith-Williams, NC State 6-3, 265 (7)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he turn it back on? A foot problem led to a disappointing season that just never got going. He’s got nice size, and he’s a good pass rushing prospect, but the medical evaluation matters.

22. Chauncey Rivers, Mississippi State 6-3, 275 (7)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’s got great size and good pass rushing ability – he led the Bulldogs in sacks – but where does he fit? He’s a good all-around player, but at his weight, he needs to be fluid in the quick drills.

21. Derrek Tuszka, North Dakota State 6-5, 246 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: An undersized pass rusher who dominated for the FCS national champion, he came up with 13.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss. Can he fly around the short drills, and potentially move well with an extra ten pounds?

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20. DJ Wonnum, South Carolina 6-5, 254 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Speed, speed, speed. Everyone will want him for his intangibles, toughness, and leadership, but he’s not a run stopper – he has to look like an NFL pass rusher and be more than a core special teamer.

19. Kendall Coleman, Syracuse 6-3, 253 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: He HAS to look and be explosive and quick. He’s got the intangibles, and he’s a good football player, but he might not have the NFL tools to be more than a flier.

18. Trevon Hill, Miami 6-3, 233 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: The interview process will be the key. GMs and scouts will want to ask him about the end of his time at Virginia Tech, but even more than that, does he have the tools to overcome his lack of bulk?

17. Kenny Willekes, Michigan State 6-4, 252 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Is he more than just a try-hard motor guy? The walk-on was fabulous for the Spartans, but can he look like something other than a good special teamer and rotation guy?

16. Alex Highsmith, Charlotte 6-4, 242 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Where will he fit? He’s an undersized defensive end who needs to add some bulk, but he was ultra-productive – 14 sacks, 21.5 tackles for loss, 75 tackles – and he needs the tools to match the tape.

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15. Trevis Gipson, Tulsa 6-4, 259 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: A still-improving player, he was a pass rusher terror for the Golden Hurricane – leading the team with 8 sacks and 15 tackles for loss – without a whole lot of moves in the package. He needs to blow the doors off the combine with his athleticism.

14. Jonathan Garvin, Miami 6-4, 250 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: It’s all there to be fantastic. Be really disappointed if he doesn’t look and time great, but he has to show good balance and a bit more power and strength.

13. Jason Strowbridge, North Carolina 6-4, 267 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he be unblockable? He might not be the typical tackle, and he’s not really an end, but he needs to find a home and a role. At his size, he can be a too-quick end in the right system.

12. Khalid Kareem, Notre Dame 6-4, 265 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: A very, very nice mix of bulk, power, and versatility, he needs to find a true home. Teams will look for a reason to draft him, and ANY burst and athleticism will go a long way.

11. Curtis Weaver, Boise State 6-3, 265 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: Is he a tweener in a good way, or does he not have a real role? Don’t expect a special workout – he’s a better football player than an athlete – but teams are going to look for anything positive to go along with the tape.

10. Bradlee Anae, Utah, 6-3, 257 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Are the raw tools there to go along with the fight? Everyone will love his style of play, but is he a try-hard type, or can he move like the top pass rushers in the draft? One great workout moves him into the second round.

9. Jonathan Greenard, Florida 6-3, 263 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a whole lot to like as long as he can stay healthy. He missed all of 2018 with an arm problem, and was banged up throughout his year at Florida. On effort and upside, he’s a first rounder, but the medical evaluation has to be great.

8. Alton Robinson, Syracuse 6-3, 260 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a chance he could be one of the biggest high-risers on draft boards with a great workout. His tape and production are fantastic, but does he have the raw tools to take his game to a whole other level?

7. Jabari Zuniga, Florida 6-3, 253 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Upside, upside, upside. When he’s healthy – which he wasn’t throughout his senior year with an ankle problem – he has the potential to be the second-best pass rusher in the draft. He’s a pass rusher and not a true end, but if he’s right, he could be one of the draft’s best value picks. He has to look the part in Indy.

6. Terrell Lewis, Alabama 6-5, 258 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: The medical part of this is everything. If he’s 100%, and you can guarantee that he’ll start 100 games he might be the No. 2 guy on this list. All the tools are there to be special.

NEXT: Top 5 Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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2020 NFL Combine: Running Back Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the running back prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the running back prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Running Back

Date: Friday, February 28: Running Backs
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the running backs invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Running Back Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

30. Brian Herrian, Georgia 6-0, 210 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: He’s a special teamer/practice squad player to start out his career, but is there any one aspect of his skill set that makes him worthy as a backup in some spot?

29. DeeJay Dallas, Miami 5-10, 210 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: What is he? He was Miami’s leading rusher, and he caught a few passes, but can he be used as a kick returner? Does he have anything that makes him look like an NFL starter?

28. Sewo Olonilua, TCU 6-3, 240 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Where else can he play? With his size and tools he looks like a potentially devastating special teamer, but can he be an H-back, an occasional fullback? How creative can you get with him?

27. Benny LeMay, Charlotte 5-9, 215 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Reliable, he was a talented, productive back in a tough situation, but does he do anything that makes him more than a guy on an NFL roster? What can he bring to be more than a key free agent?

26. Scottie Phillips, Ole Miss 5-8, 211 (Free Agent) 
NFL Combine What Matters: There has to be something amazing about his game to get someone talking about him. He’s a quick, compact back who’ll look the part in the short drills, but he needs to catch the ball well.

25. JaMycal Hasty, Baylor 5-8, 205 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Is he more than a kick returner at the next level? His raw numbers have to be off the charts to be considered an NFL running back in a rotation.

24. Tony Jones, Notre Dame 5-11, 224 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a chance he turns into the rising star among the running backs. He’s got the size and the upside to be a terrific late flier. He’s one great workout away from being someone’s hot prospect.

23. Raymond Calais, Louisiana 5-9 185 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A great 40 gets him drafted. He was a terrific part of a rotation, but he’s a toy for an offensive coordinator who’ll need packages for him.

22. JJ Taylor, Arizona 5-6, 185 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: He could turn out to be an interesting call with a great workout. He won’t be anyone’s franchise back, but even at his size, he might find a jack-of-all-trades role is he can be ultra-quick.

21. Patrick Taylor, Memphis 6-3, 216 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Who wants to take a chance on potential greatness? Big, fast, and with the body type and ability to be a brilliant mid-to-late round pick, but he missed most of last year with an ankle problem.

20. Rico Dowdle, South Carolina 6-0, 215 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: What does he do at an NFL level? He has good size and the ability to be one of those guys who hangs on a roster and pops up from time to time, but he has to show off something special.

19. Darius Anderson, TCU 5-11, 195 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: How smooth is he? He’s got the look and all-around skill to be a part of the rotation on the cheap, but he might be a special teamer.

18. James Robinson, Illinois State 5-10, 220 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Of course it’s about looking the part compared to the FBSers, but the guy who ran for close to 2,000 yards last year and should look and run fast. Can he show off any power?

17. Salvon Ahmed, Washington 5-11, 196 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: How decisive are his cuts? He’s a specialist in a rotation who’ll fit well as a third down back, and he has to catch everything and show off his explosiveness.

16. LeVante Bellamy, Western Michigan 5-9, 190 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: How much will his lack of size matter? He’s tough, amazing around the goal line, and can handle the workload, but he has to be devastating in the short drills.

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15. Mike Warren, Cincinnati 5-11, 222 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he show anything flashy about his game? He can catch, and he can be a great-value mid-to-late round workhorse, but he needs to get someone buzzing.

14. Joshua Kelley, UCLA 5-11, 219 (6)
NFL Combine What Matters: A power back in a class full of quick athletes, he can up his stock in a big way if gets moving well with a great workout. How smooth does he look?

13. Anthony McFarland, 5-9, 198 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Along with Terp teammate Javon Leake, he’s got to show off the wheels. He’ll never bring any power, but he could be a fantastic flash-back if he looks the part of a speedy specialist.

12. Darrynton Evans, Appalachian State 5-11, 200 
NFL Combine What Matters: This is the chance to step up around the big boys. He was devastating around the goal line, slippery, and he can catch – but he did it in the Sun Belt. This is where he gets to show off the tools.

11. Eno Benjamin, Arizona State 5-9, 195 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: What can he show off to be one of the top five backs? He doesn’t really have the right size, and he doesn’t fit a type, but he’s tough, productive, and has No. 1 back upside. Now he has to stand out in the drills in some way.

10. Javon Leake, Maryland 6-0, 206 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he blow the doors off of the speed drills? He’s got a ton of tread on the tires, there’s a world of upside, and he can move – now he has to show it off.

9. Ke’Shawn Vaughn, Vanderbilt 5-10, 205 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Everyone has to show off the NFL athleticism, but no running back’s stock will be tied in more to what Vaughn does in the workout. He has next-level talent, but he has to prove the raw tools are there.

8. Lamical Perine, Florida 5-11, 211 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Is there any flash to go along with the pop? He’ll look the part, and everyone will like the idea of him as a feature back, but he can move into the second round with a great workout.

7. Zack Moss, Utah 5-10, 222 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: How fluid is he? There’s no questioning the fight, the toughness, or the toughness when he gets to unload on a tackler, but how are the tools? The 40 doesn’t matter, but how he can move in the quick drills is the key.

6. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, LSU 5-8, 205 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: An interesting call, he’s a strong receiver, as reliable as they come, and tough as nails, but a big-time 40 would be nice. He’s quick, and now he has to show the raw speed.

NEXT: Top 5 Running Back Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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2020 NFL Combine: Defensive Tackle Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For

Rankings and what to watch for out of all the defensive tackle prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

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Rankings and what to watch for out of all the defensive tackle prospects invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

2020 NFL Combine: Defensive Tackles

Date: Saturday, February 29: Defensive Tackles
Live Stream: fuboTV (click to watch for free)
Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
Network: NFL Network

From the college perspective. here are rankings and quick looks at all of the defensive tackles invited to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Before getting into the top five breakdown, here’s a ranking of the best of the rest and what to look for.

2020 Pre-NFL Combine Defensive Tackles: Best of the Rest Rankings

Number in parentheses is the projected round drafted before the NFL Combine.

24. John Penisini, Utah 6-2, 333 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A big anchor type who could sit in the middle of the line and gum things up, does he have the athleticism or traits to be a late round flier?

23. Rob Windsor, Penn State 6-4, 285 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Will there be anything there to make him draftable? He’ll always bring the motor, but he had a mediocre 2019 and needs to prove he’s not a practice squad tough cut.

22. Malcolm Roach, Texas 6-3, 290 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he be a fit as a part of the rotation at several spots? He’s a true tweener who has to look like he belongs as draftable late pick.

21. Broderick Washington, Texas Tech 6-3, 305 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: What’s his NFL trait? He’s not really an interior pass rusher, and he’s not quite an anchor who can be a starter in the middle of a D.

20. McTelvin Agim, Arkansas 6-3, 300 (7)
NFL Combine What Matters: A bit undersized, he needs to be ultra-quick with the upside to work at end. He has to look like a tweener pass rusher.

19. Darrion Daniels, Nebraska 6-3, 325 (7)
NFL Combine What Matters: A decent-sized late round flier who has to fly through the medicals after being hurt for way too much of his college career.

18. Carlos Davis, Nebraska 6-2, 320 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: Is he draftable? He might be on the short side, but if could be an interesting flier with interior pass rushing upside.

17. Khalil Davis, Nebraska 6-2, 315 (Free Agent)
NFL Combine What Matters: A terrific interior pass rusher for the Huskers, the more power he can somehow show, the better.

16. Josiah Coatney, Ole Miss 6-4, 310 (6) 
NFL Combine What Matters: The weight matters. He’s played at around 320ish at times and needs to look like a versatile option for a variety of roles.

15. Larrell Murchison, NC State 6-2, 291 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: Undersized, can he become more than a specialist? He’s tough for his size, and he’s simply a good football player, but does he have the raw tools to go along with the want-to?

14. Raequan Williams, Michigan State 6-4, 303 (5)
NFL Combine What Matters: A good tweener for the interior, can he look the part of a run stopper? He’s got the athleticism, but can he turn it on enough to move up into the top 100?

13. James Lynch, Baylor 6-4, 295 (4) 
NFL Combine What Matters: Opinions are going to be all over the place on him. An unstoppable backfield force for Baylor, will teams care about his lack of bulk, and will he be 4-3 scheme-specific?

12. Leki Fotu, Utah 6-4, 335 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he be more than a guy who gums up the works? He’s a true anchor, but does he have anything to get into the backfield at the next level?

11. Marlon Davidson, Auburn 6-3, 297 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: Just how heavy will he play? He could slim down and be a 280ish pound pass rushing end, or a potential killer at tackle. He’ll needs to show he has a role.

10. Rashad Lawrence, LSU 6-2, 308 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: It’s all about his movement. His ankle injury that was a slight issue throughout last year has to check out fine. There’s no questioning his leadership or fight, but considering his relatively smallish size, he has to be quick.

9. DaVon Hamilton, Ohio State 6-4 327 (3)
NFL Combine What Matters: How does he look? He’s got the size, he’s got the body type that can handle differences in weight, but is he an anchor, or can he really move well enough to be an interior force in the backfield?

8. Benito Jones, Ole Miss 6-1, 321 (4)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can teams get past his body size? Does anyone really care that he’s 6-1 and not 6-4? There’s some team out there who’ll be in love with him and secretly hopes he has a bad workout so he’ll drop.

7. Jordan Elliott, Missouri 6-4, 315 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: Can he look like a first rounder? He’s got the size and the tools, but he has to generate a buzz. He’s a top 50 pick who can be one of the biggest winners in Indy.

6. Raekwon Davis, Alabama 6-7, 312 (2)
NFL Combine What Matters: It’s all there. He’s got all the talent in the world to be something special, but can he put it all together and be a killer to build around? Somehow, he has to show that he can be a whole lot more than his okay senior year.

NEXT: Top 5 Defensive Tackle Prospects Before the 2020 NFL Combine

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Notre Dame Football: Alohi Gilman Declares for NFL Draft

He has a nose for the football and made a habit making huge plays which was on display Saturday as Brian Kelly gave him the game ball for his performance in the Camping World Bowl victory over Iowa State.

It wasn’t much of a surprise if you’ve been paying attention but on Monday night Notre Dame safety and captain Alohi Gilman announced he’ll be passing on his fifth year of eligibility and putting his name in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Gilman played the last two seasons at Notre Dame after spending his freshman year at the Naval Academy where he was credited with 76 tackles (50 solo) and a forced fumble.

After sitting out the 2017 season due to a transfer ruling it didn’t take long for Gilman to make an impact on the field in 2018.

When I think of Gilman I think of a player that teammates clearly love and feed off of but someone who has a knack for making a huge play in the most-necessary of moments.

He has a nose for the football and made a habit making huge plays which was on display Saturday as Brian Kelly gave him the game ball for his performance in the Camping World Bowl victory over Iowa State.

With Isaiah Pryor coming in next season and Houston Griffith already being on campus it’s easy to see why Gilman is deciding to take his NFL chance now instead of playing with Kyle Hamilton another year.

From the way-back machine – Alohi Gilman takes down Josh Adams back in 2016:

FWIW – WalterFootball.com ranks Gilman as the 19th best safety in the 2020 NFL Draft.