Tag: NFL Draft

Irish in the NFL: Will Fuller nearing return for Texans

The Houston Texans will soon get back former Notre Dame receiver Will Fuller, who has been out since suffering a hamstring injury in Week 7.

Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish receiver Will Fuller V has been out with a hamstring injury since getting hurt in Week 7, but the speedy receiver is nearing a return for the Houston Texans.

After a bye week last week, Houston reported that Fuller is a limited participant in practice on both Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of the team’s Week 11 matchup with the Ravens.

Fuller is Houston’s primary deep threat, recording 34 receptions for 450 yards and three touchdowns on the season. Drops have continued to plague the speedy receiver, but his rapport with Deshaun Watson will be a welcome boost for this Houston offense.

Fuller is in his fourth NFL season, all spent with Houston after they plucked him in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft.

Fuller was a monster in college, recording back-to-back 1,000 yard receiving seasons as a sophomore and junior, and totaling 30 career touchdowns.

Although he has yet to find that level of success in the NFL, he is liable to break out in any given week, and will help the Texans the rest of the way as soon as he is healthy.

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Another Pair of Notre Dame Stars Headed to Senior Bowl

Pride has 33 tackles on the year along with one interception, as he recorded his first last-Saturday at Duke.

It seems like just about every hour at this point another Notre Dame player accepts an invitation to play in the Reese’s Senior Bowl

We’ve given you the stories on both Chase Claypool and Jalen Elliott but that’s not enough as a couple of other Notre Dame seniors accepted their invitations to the annual Mobile, Alabama event today.

Enter Troy Pride, Jr. and Khalid Kareem.

Pride has 33 tackles on the year along with one interception, as he recorded his first last-Saturday at Duke.

Kareem has four-and-a-half sacks on the season and 11 for his Notre Dame career.  The defensive lineman has totaled 31 tackles this season.

That brings the total to four for Notre Dame players headed to Mobile, a sign of a strong program.

Notre Dame – Claypool in Senior Bowl

I talked last week about how Chase Claypool’s development as a WR throughout his career has opened eyes in the college football world, but also by scouts at the next level. Well, it looks like he’s going to have an even greater opportunity to raise …

I talked last week about how Chase Claypool’s development as a WR throughout his career has opened eyes in the college football world, but also by scouts at the next level.

Well, it looks like he’s going to have an even greater opportunity to raise his draft stock in the eyes of evaporators with an invitation to the Senior Bowl.

In recent years, with the boom of NFL Draft interest, the Senior Bowl has become the premier event for NFL personnel executives to further evaluate prospects. Current Executive Director of the Reese’s Senior Bowl and 18-year NFL scout Jim Nagy has done a tremendous job using social media to promote the event and publicize those players getting invites to the week.

I emphasize week, not game, because it is really the measurements, practices and workout that provide evalutators with the analysis they’re looking for.

The crop of wide receivers for the 2020 NFL Draft is being hailed as one of the best ever by many draft analysts. Eligible prospects include Alabama’s Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, and DeVonta Smith, Clemson’s Tee Higgins, Colorado’s Laviska Shenault, Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb, Minnesota’s Tyler Johnson, USC’s Michael Pittman, Texas’ Collin Johnson, TCU’s Jalen Reagor, and Oklahoma State’s Tylan Wallace.

 

 

Meet Jamar Watson, Kentucky’s next pass-rushing prospect

Check out Draft Wire’s exclusive interview with Kentucky edge defender Jamar “Boogie” Watson

Last year, the NFL draft featured a talented edge rusher by the name of Josh Allen. In 2020, another pass-rushing Wildcat could make waves at the next level.

A versatile prospect who can get after opposing quarterbacks and shut down ball-carriers in the backfield, Watson recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about the skill set he brings to the table, how playing at Kentucky has prepared him for the next level, and what fans can expect from him the rest of this season.

JM: How would you describe your skill set?

JBW: I’m a very athletic edge rusher. I can play off the edge as a rusher and I can drop in coverage a little bit as well. I’m a savvy player and I have a high football I.Q. as well.

JM: What’s your favorite part about playing linebacker?

JBW: I love having the ability to effect the game on a snap-by-snap basis. I play in the middle of the defense and we get to be involved on every single play. I have a role to play on every single defensive snap. I love that. That gives me a chance to be a high impact player.

JM: I heard that you’re a tap dancer. How did you get into that?

JBW: My high school basketball coach recommended that I get into tap dancing. I needed an extra credit and it was a pretty easy class, if I’m being honest (laughs). I gave it a shot and I’ve actually kept it going since high school. I really ended up liking it.

Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

JM: Your dream job outside of being an NFL player is to become a police offer. Why is that?

JBW: It started off with me watching lots of law enforcement shows. Those were my favorite types of shows growing up. CSI, Law & Order, shows like that. As I got older, my interest in law enforcement became more serious and I started doing some research. If I wasn’t playing football, that would be my dream career. That’s what I’m studying right now in school. That’s my top desire aside from football. My goal is to play in the NFL, first and foremost, but a career as an officer of the law after football definitely intrigues me.

JM: What’s your favorite cop show of all time?

JBW: That’s a great question. If I had to go all time, I would probably say “Person of Interest.” It’s on Netflix now, and it has about five seasons. It’s about this I.T. nerd guy who has the ability to predict future crimes and he has this badass friend who’s the muscle of the group. He sends him out on these missions to stop these crimes before they happen. That’s probably my favorite show of all time.

JM: Who do you think is the best NCAA player you’ve ever gone up against?

JBW: I would probably go with Sony Michel or Deebo Samuel. Those guys stood out for obvious reasons. I can’t forget about Lamar Jackson. He’s as dynamic as they come. Those are definitely my top three.

JM: Is there an NFL running back or tight end you’re looking forward to tackling or covering?

JBW: I would probably say Ezekiel Elliott. He’s received so much publicity over the last couple of years. He’s a superstar running back and I’d love to test out my abilities against a guy like that.

(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

JM: Coach Brad White did a great job with Josh Allen last year. He also has six years NFL experience with the Indianapolis Colts. How has he helped elevate your game?

JBW: He’s definitely taken my game to another level. He has an incredible feel for the game. He understands the role of a linebacker well beyond pass rushing. He’s helped me in every faucet of my game. His attention to detail is tremendous. It’s the small things that he’s taught me that helped me become a better player. He’s really made a difference in my life. Josh Allen will tell you himself, we as a linebacker group give a ton of credit to coach White. He puts a huge emphasis on having us reach for the ball. Try to strip it out and create turnovers. It’s the small technique stuff that he’s really helped me out a lot.

JM: How has Kentucky helped prepare you for what’s next?

JBW: The weight staff is one of the best in the country. We have some veteran guys around this program. The coaching staff has a ton of experience. The training staff is top notch as well. They keep us right throughout the summer and throughout the season as well. Our coaches have had success at multiple levels. Having these guys at my disposal has been huge for me.

JM: What can Kentucky fans expect from you for the rest of this season?

JBW: They can expect me to be continue being a productive member of this defense. My team needs me to be productive. I’m working hard to improve every single day. I’m definitely focused and locked in right now.

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Raiders select Alabama WR Henry Ruggs III in latest mock draft

Raiders select Alabama WR Henry Ruggs III in latest mock draft

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It’s no secret that the Oakland Raiders will be looking to add to their wide receiver room this offseason. While the team is having a ton of success on offense, the unit lacks a true No. 1 receiver that can dictate coverage.

Oakland has a bunch of nice complementary players, including Tyrell Williams and Hunter Renfrow, but they need that one stud they can go to in the game’s biggest moments.

Luckily for Oakland, several elite wide receiver options are entering the 2020 draft. One such player is Henry Ruggs III of Alabama. While Ruggs doesn’t have the prototypical size for a No. 1 receiver, he is one of the most explosive receivers in the country.

Through nine games, Ruggs is averaging 20 yards per receptions on 29 catches as he has scored seven total touchdowns. In Luke Easterling’s latest mock draft at the Draft Wire, Ruggs was the selection for the Raiders at pick No. 17. Take a look at Easterling’s reasoning for the pick below:

The Antonio Brown debacle is in the rear-view mirror, but the Raiders still need a No. 1 receiver who can take over a game with size, athleticism and physicality. Current management takes a page out of the late, great Al Davis’ book, opting for Ruggs and his elite speed.

Ruggs would be a great fit in Oakland’s offense because he can stretch the field, opening up the underneath routes for Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow, while also taking a safety out of the box in the run game.

Ruggs isn’t likely to be a 100-catch receiver in the NFL, but that isn’t what Oakland needs. They just need someone to keep defenses honest, and that’s precisely what Ruggs can do.

Expect the Alabama receiver to be on the shortlist of players the team considers come April’s draft.

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2020 NFL mock draft: Latest 3-round projections

Draft Wire editor Luke Easterling updates his three-round projections for the 2020 NFL draft

We’re 10 weeks into the NFL regular season, and the college football season is hitting crunch time, with playoff pushes starting at both levels.

It’s crunch time for some of the nation’s top prospects, as well as the pro teams fighting for position at the top of next year’s draft board.

Here’s an updated look at how the first three rounds of the 2020 NFL draft could shake out, using the latest updated pick order:

1. Cincinnati Bengals | Joe Burrow | QB | LSU

For the longest time now, it’s seemed Tua Tagovailoa was written into this spot with permanent marker. But Burrow’s performance so far this season has launched him into the No. 1 overall conversation, while another high-ankle injury has dinged Tagovailoa’s stock. Don’t be shocked if there’s a different QB in the top spot come next April.

2. Washington Redskins | Chase Young | EDGE | Ohio State

Another franchise in disarray, Washington needs to add as much talent as possible, regardless of position. They already have their quarterback of the future in Dwayne Haskins, so they need impact players elsewhere on both sides of the ball. Young is a monster of a pass rusher with all size, athleticism and technique to be a dominant player at the next level.

3. New York Giants | Jerry Jeudy | WR | Alabama

Now that Odell Beckham, Jr. is gone, the Giants need a true No. 1 target to help Daniel Jones reach his full potential. Jeudy is one of the most polished, explosive pass-catchers we’ve seen in years, and he’s well worth a top-three pick.

4. Miami Dolphins | Tua Tagovailoa | QB | Alabama

Aside from the injuries, it’s hard to find a flaw in Tagovailoa’s game. A few months ago, it would have been hard to imagine the Dolphins landing him without getting the No. 1 overall pick, but thanks to Burrow’s soaring stock, he just might fall into their lap here.

5. New York Jets | Andrew Thomas | OT | Georgia

If Sam Darnold is ever going to develop into the franchise quarterback the Jets drafted him to be, he’ll need a franchise left tackle to keep him upright. Thomas is the best of a deep class, and would be an immediate upgrade for New York.

6. Atlanta Falcons | Jeff Okudah | CB | Ohio State

In today’s NFL, you can never have too many quality corners. The Falcons may have more pressing needs elsewhere, but with this pick, they land one of the fastest-rising prospects in the country. Okudah is keeping up the trend of sending blue-chip defensive backs from Columbus to the pros.

7. Cleveland Browns | Tristan Wirfs | OT | Iowa

After all the offseason hype, the Browns have struggled mightily this season. They need to give Baker Mayfield everything he needs to succeed, and that means improving things up front. Wirfs would be an instant upgrade at either tackle spot.

8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Grant Delpit | S | LSU

Despite investing heavily into their secondary in recent drafts, Tampa Bay still needs help on the back end. Without a worthy tackle prospect still on the board here, the Bucs opt for the best playmaker in the defensive backfield, getting a versatile playmaker who can line up all over the field.

9. Denver Broncos | Derrick Brown | DL | Auburn

Offensive tackle is the bigger need, but the talent is too good to pass up elsewhere. Brown is a rare athlete for his size, with the explosiveness and power to be a dominant force up front. He’d be a much better use of a top-10 pick than reaching for he next-best tackle.

10. Arizona Cardinals | A.J. Epenesa | EDGE | Iowa

The Cardinals have lots of young talent, but they need more difference-makers on defense. Epenesa is a disruptive force who can line up inside or on the edge, making him the kind of versatile prospect Arizona should be targeting.

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Latest FPI projections from ESPN have Dolphins picking 4th in 2020

ESPN’s latest projection of the final standings courtesy of their Football Power Index forecasts Miami to hold the 4th pick in 2020 Draft.

The Miami Dolphins pulled off a stunner this past weekend in Indianapolis — aided by the Colts’ absence of starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett to an ACL injury. The win brought the Dolphins to 2-7 on the season and effectively ended the team’s hopes and dreams of landing the 1st-overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. The Dolphins now trail the Cincinnati Bengals by two games in the race for the top spot and each team is trending in opposite directions — Miami is surging with confident play, while the Bengals just got stomped by the Ravens in an embarrassing defeat.

ESPN’s Football Power Index agrees: Miami’s odds of walking away with the top pick in the 2020 NFL Draft are now pretty slim. Two weeks ago, the Dolphins were given 66% odds to land the first pick. Now? That number sits at 12%. The latest projection forecasts Miami to pick 4th: behind the winless Bengals, the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants.

No problem. Miami will have ample opportunity to do business with either Washington or New York to ensure they get a top quarterback prospect, should they feel it necessary to land “their guy”. And the deeper into the process things get, the more it seems LSU’s Joe Burrow is the emerging favorite to be the player who demands selection with the top pick this offseason.

Miami will have opportunities to win a few more games along the way: ESPN’s projection has the Dolphins finishing the season at 4-12 and even if the Dolphins went 5-11, Miami would fall no lower than 6th in the ESPN projections — losing ground to two more teams who already have young quarterbacks in the New York Jets (Sam Darnold) and Arizona Cardinals (Kyler Murray).

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Notre Dame Football: Cole Kmet Says He’s Staying

the Irish appear to have landed the highly-coveted “Six Star Recruit” for the 2020 season.

Not many players around the nation have seen their NFL Draft stock rise quite like Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet this season.

Kmet went from pretty much being a “great idea” to a star performer this season, making an immediate splash upon returning from a collar bone injury sustained at the start of fall camp. Despite missing the first three games of 2019 due to injury Kmet has been able to pull in 29 receptions for 327 yards and five touchdowns.

Earlier this fall I sat down with Yahoo Sports draft expert Eric Edholm and discussed what Kmet’s draft stock looked like. Eric declared him a very-possible lte first round pick.

Today Kmet was asked about if he’s made a decision for the 2020 NFL Draft.

We’ve heard this before and minds have been changed (Will Fuller) so it’s not necessarily a guarantee still, but it’s great news nonetheless that he was that adamant on returning.

As Brian Kelly once called Michael Floyd returning for the 2011 season, the Irish appear to have landed the highly-coveted “Six Star Recruit” for the 2020 season.

Delanie Walker talks evolution of tight end position

Check out Draft Wire’s exclusive interview with Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker

Playing tight end in the NFL isn’t what it used to be.

Today’s best players at the position are asked to do as much as any player on the field, from blocking like another offensive lineman to making a dynamic impact on the passing game.

One of the league’s most complete players at the position, Delanie Walker of the Tennessee Titans recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about the evolution of the position, and which young players have caught his eye.

JM: You’re working with the FedEx Football Fellowship Program which is a collaborative effort between FedEx and the USO which helps create on the job experience for veterans as they transition from the military back to civilian life. How important are programs like this in our country?

DW: This is a very important program and I’m honored to join FedEx and the USO to support our military veterans and their families as they prepare for life after military service. I think that these men and women have done a great job protecting our country and they deserve every opportunity they can get to help transition back to every day life. Anything I or the Titans organization can do to help assist this wonderful program is a bonus to me. They deserve the immediate opportunity to get jobs once they return to regular civilization.

JM: I’m curious to get your take on the state of the NFL draft when it comes to the tight end position. When you were drafted, the collegiate tight end was asked to do a lot. Despite being a later pick, you came into the league with the skills required to make the massive impact that you’ve made throughout your long, illustrious career. Not only are you an excellent receiver and route runner, but you’re an excellent blocker and even played a ton of special teams in your San Francisco days. Have you noticed this difference with today’s young tight ends?

DW: The tight end position has changed a lot from when I first entered the league. The role of a tight end nowadays is pretty much to be a receiver first and foremost. That’s what it’s transitioned over to. You have to be able to catch the ball and run routes from the outside in. You still need to be able to block though. I feel like tight ends have multiple roles on the offense. It’s almost like we’re another quarterback out there. We need to know the fronts, we need to understand the coverage and we pretty much need to know what everyone’s role is on every play. We can line up just about anywhere on any given play.

I’m glad that the role has changed so much to be honest. If anything, it’s given the tight end more exposure which has probably lead to some bigger pay days for us all (laughs).

Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

JM: I’m curious if there’s part of you that thinks rookie tight ends are struggling to make an immediate impact nowadays because they’re asked to do so little in college?

DW: Yeah, that’s the tough part when it comes to all this. Like you said, they’re not asked to do a whole lot in college nowadays. They’re pretty much just asked to catch the ball and maybe block a nine technique. When they get to the NFL, everything changes. They want you to be able to play fullback in addition to tight end. You have to know how to pull a lead block once you get here. You have to be able to survive on the outside while reading coverages. The transition is definitely more difficult for the tight end nowadays. Most college offenses will build around you and they baby them a little bit. When you get to the NFL, they’re gonna throw you into the fire. You have to be able to learn on the fly. It’s tough for the young guys. I understand why that can make life difficult for some of these rookies.

JM: Who are some of your favorite young tight ends in the game today?

DW: George Kittle, for sure. Kittle has been a monster since he came into this league man. He’s been balling out. I’ve been keeping a close eye on him and he’s definitely doing his thing. I love watching him play the game man. I like seeing what he’s doing in San Francisco. You know I played in San Francisco for a while. It means a lot to me when I see a young guy representing San Francisco the way they deserve to be represented.

I have to mention my teammate Jonnu Smith, as well. He’s been showing up for us in a big way since I’ve been injured. He’s been playing great. We’ve asked him to do a lot of things and he’s doing a great job out there. Zach Ertz is another one. There’s so many tight ends out here chilling right now (laughs). The younger tight ends are really showing up. I’m a savvy veteran and I’m proud of every single one of them.

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