7 prospects who can boost their stock during bowl season

December 21, 2019January 17, 2020 Chris McGlynn Draft, Football, NCAA, NCAAF 2020 NFL Draft, Austin Jackson, Carlos Basham, College Football, Collin Johnson, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Football, NFL Draft, Shaun Wade, Solomon Kindley, Troy Dye

Bowl season is officially upon us. It kicked off on Friday with a pair of games featuring a number of intriguing draft prospects. While a good chunk of draft prospects will sit out of these games to prepare for the NFL draft, there is still a lot of work to be done for prospects looking to make an impact on a more national stage. Utah State quarterback Jordan Love definitely looked sharp in his eventual loss to Kent State. The result doesn’t matter. He took care of the ball, with lone interception coming off a tipped pass that should have been caught. His draft stock received a small boost in the process, as it was a positive note to leave with evaluators heading into the pre-draft process.

There are quite a few other prospects who could do a lot to benefit their draft stock in their upcoming bowl games. Here are some of the biggest ones to keep an eye on.

Shaun Wade, CB, Ohio State
You have no doubt heard about Jeff Okudah by now. He is the consensus top corner in the class and expected to be a top-10 pick. Playing alongside him is Shaun Wade, a redshirt sophomore who commands the nickel. It is not a guarantee Wade will declare, but his play during the College Football Playoff could go a long way in making that decision for him. He will get a chance to go up against a loaded receiving core at Clemson. Tee Higgins, Amari Rodgers, Justyn Ross and Joseph Ngata are likely the second-best group in the country, behind Alabama. If Wade can have a good day against that group and even potentially facing LSU’s high-powered offense, he should lock himself in as a late first round pick.

Carlos Basham Jr., EDGE, Wake Forest
Basham’s name is becoming more common in draft circles after a strong redshirt junior season. He has 10 sacks and 17 tackles for loss this year. In a class that lacks a ton of depth behind Chase Young, there is an opportunity to separate from a lot of the other mid-tier prospects facing Michigan State in the Pinstripe Bowl. He has the size to be an edge rusher at the next level, either as an end in a 4-3 scheme or standing up in a 3-4 set up. A solid outing against a Big Ten team could help propel him into the conversation to go early on Day 2 of the draft.

Austin Jackson, OT, USC
It’s hard to imagine a USC player possibly being under the radar given the history the school has in college football. Not to mention, the Trojans are ranked again entering bowl season. However, Austin Jackson is not a household name yet. He has not gotten the same press as Georgia’s Andrew Thomas, Iowa’s Tristan Wirfs or Alabama’s Jedrick Wills. Jackson could find himself right in the mix to be drafted alongside these players in the first round with a good showing against Iowa in the Holiday Bowl. He will get a chance to face a talented Hawkeye’s defensive line, lead by projected first round pick A.J. Epenesa. With so many NFL teams needed improvement at left tackle, a good game from Jackson could make his size and footwork impossible to pass up come draft day.

Collin Johnson, WR, Texas
Texas has not had the type of season fans were expected after ranking in the preseason top 10. It has been a tough year for Collin Johnson as well. After entering the year looking like he would be one of the first 10 receivers off the board, he has slipped due to a number of injuries and a lack of game-breaking speed. He still has plenty of athletic ability and has put up good numbers since returning in mid-October. Putting together some good game tape against a suffocating Utah secondary in the Alamo Bowl would go a long way to putting him back on the right track. If Johnson performs against the likes of Jaylon Johnson, Julian Blackmon and Terrell Burgess, who all figure to be drafted this year, it would give the Texas senior a much-needed boost ahead of the Senior Bowl and combine.

Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan
Really any of the trio of Michigan’s top receivers could be here. Donovan Peoples-Jones, Tarik Black and Nico Collins have all garnered varying amounts of draft buzz, but Peoples-Jones seems to be leading the pack. He will get an incredible opportunity to prove himself going up against the Alabama defense in the Citrus Bowl. With a secondary that boasts Day 1 hopeful in Xavier McKinney (Trevon Diggs is sitting out), Peoples-Jones will have his work cut out for him. If he shows he can generate separation from Patrick Surtain, that will be a good sign for his ability to translate to the pros. As a junior, he won’t be in the Senior Bowl, so this is his last real chance to showcase on-field traits before the combine.

Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
When you think of toughness and grit in college football, one of the first teams that comes to mind has to be Wisconsin. Troy Dye will get a chance to face that stout offense in the Rose Bowl this year. He is a tackling machine with good speed. Dye has even played through injury this season with a broken thumb. That screams toughness to me, but the biggest knock on Dye is his lack of strength. After all, he only weighs 225 pounds, very light for an NFL linebacker. If he can put together some good tape and make some disruptive plays against a Badgers front that features the best center in college football in Tyler Biadasz and a legendary running back in Jonathan Taylor, he could push himself firmly into the round one conversation heading into the Senior Bowl.

Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia
While Georgia’s offense has struggled in the second half of the season, this offensive line has still been one of the best in the nation, featuring a pair of draft prospects. Not quite as well known as the guy he plays next to in Andrew Thomas, Solomon Kindley has been showing up in the middle rounds of a lot of mock drafts. He will matchup with Baylor in the Sugar Bowl, which brings with it the challenge of facing the disruptive James Lynch. With Thomas set to sit out the game, this is a big opportunity for Kindley to show how good he can be in a vacuum. If he can hold up in protection and keep Lynch from wrecking the running game, that could go a long way in helping solidify his draft stock in a year without a ton of elite interior offensive prospects.

2020 NFL Mock Draft: Tua still top 5?

December 5, 2019December 5, 2019 Chris McGlynn Draft, Football, NCAA, NCAAF, NFL 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, College Football Playoff, Football, Joe Burrow, NFL, NFL Draft

This is the time of year where the draft buzz is starting to get real. Players are beginning to announce their decisions to enter the draft or stay at school, while conference championships and bowl games offer a final chance to showcase their abilities. Some major injuries have rocked the college football world since the last time I did a mock draft, most notably Tua Tagovailoa’s season-ending hip injury. It puts his draft stock in question and opens the door for him to return to Alabama next year, which would completely change the outlook of college football in 2020.

The draft order here is determined by the current NFL standings, with the exception of the Cowboys, who would have to be in the playoffs as a division winner. Playoff teams are sorted separately from teams that miss the postseason. Anyway, if you don’t like where your team is currently picking, be mad at them, not me, for not playing well enough this season. Let’s dive in.

1. Cincinnati Bengals (1-11) – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
The rise is officially complete. It would be an upset if Joe Burrow was not the first overall pick at this point. He is the clear Heisman front runner and has played lights out against great competition. Burrow could either take over right away, or sit behind Andy Dalton during the final year of his contract. Cincinnati has to find it’s quarterback of the future in this draft, because it is definitely not Dalton or Ryan Finley.

2. New York Giants (2-10) – Chase Young, EDGE,
Things have gone downhill in New York, but this would be the king of all consolation prizes after another rough season. Chase Young is the best edge prospect since Von Miller. He is an elite pass rusher who is continuing to develop his pass rush moves and he sets the edge well against the run. He does exactly what you want and would seamlessly transition into the Giants’ 4-3 front.

3. Washington (3-9) – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
While Terry McLaurin has been a stud this season for Washington, Dwayne Haskins is going to need some more weapons to work with. Jerry Jeudy is a polished route-runner with underrated athleticism. He won’t light up the radar gun like teammate Henry Ruggs, but he is a complete receiver. Expect him to be the first receiver off the board in every mock draft you see.

4. Miami Dolphins (3-9) – Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
The drop for Tua Tagovailoa is not very far. Despite the injury, I think Miami would be willing to roll the dice on the Alabama quarterback recovering in time to start the 2021 season. Tagovailoa has a ton of talent and clear poise in the pocket. The Dolphins have a veteran stopgap in Ryan Fitzpatrick that should hold them until Tua is ready to take over the starting job.

5. Atlanta Falcons (3-9) – A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
Despite a second-half resurgence from the Falcons pass rush, Atlanta could use an infusion of talent along its defensive front. A.J. Epenesa has some traits that remind you of J.J. Watt, though he definitely does not have the same motor. Epenesa played better in the second half of the year, but didn’t take the same leap many expected given his increased playing time. His size and skill set should be enough to keep him in the top-10.

6. Detroit Lions (3-8-1) – Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State
As the Lions season continues to spiral out of control, Detroit is suddenly well positioned to grab the top corner in the class. Jeffrey Okudah is a beast with true lockdown corner potential. He breaks well on the ball and shows a clear understanding for route combinations. Okudah can sometimes be a bit overaggressive, but has the athleticism to usually make up for that. He would bolster a Lions secondary currently giving up the third-most pass yards per game.

7. Arizona Cardinals (3-8-1) – Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
Arizona has one of the worst defenses in the NFL. Everyone has posted monster numbers against the Cardinals this season. The front seven is actually coming into form, but they could use some playmaking ability across the board. Isaiah Simmons is the versatile chess piece the defense needs. He can drop in coverage, thanks to his time spent as a safety, but can play closer to the line as a linebacker as well. He should matchup well with “move” tight ends and can wreak havoc in opposing backfields.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-8) – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn
Jacksonville has had all sorts of problems following a 4-4 start. The defense has fallen apart in no small part due to an inability to stop the run. Derrick Brown can help plug up the middle of the field on early downs and apply pressure from the interior of the offensive line in passing situations. He is a complete defensive lineman who should have no problem sliding up and down the line for the Jaguars. This team is at its best when its defense is playing well.

9. New York Jets (4-8) – Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia
The Jets offense has been inconsistent this season and Sam Darnold has been consistently running for his life. New York has also really struggled to run the ball effectively this season. It is time for this franchise to address the left tackle position, which has been a revolving door since D’Brickashaw Ferguson retired. Andrew Thomas is a rock solid prospect. He will make his 51st start on Saturday in the SEC championship game. He should offer some stability at a crucial position.

10. Los Angeles Chargers (4-8) – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
What is the succession plan to Philip Rivers in Los Angeles? Tyrod Taylor and Easton Stick are the other two quarterbacks on the roster. Neither one of them has done anything to indicate they are the future at the position. Rivers has struggled a lot this year and has to be thinking about retirement soon. He will turn 38 over the weekend and his play is clearly slipping. Justin Herbert has certainly had his struggles this season, but he has the physical tools to develop into a future starter. This might be a bit early for him, but LA has to be aggressive in finding its next quarterback.

11. Denver Broncos (4-8) – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Courtland Sutton has been playing lights out in recent weeks. Looking down the rest of the depth chart, there is not really much for Drew Lock to work with. Adding CeeDee Lamb, whose play style reminds me of DeAndre Hopkins, would provide a massive boost to the Denver offense. He is a dynamic playmaker with the potential to take it to the house whenever he touches the ball. Lamb has great hands and the type of athleticism to become an instant contributor for any team at the next level.

12. Philadelphia Eagles (5-7) – Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
While the secondary is a clear need, Philadelphia needs some more reliable options at receiver. As the year has rolled on, the Eagles have tried filling holes by bringing back veterans the team had previously parted ways with. Given that DeSean Jackson is already on the roster, this might seem redundant, but relying on the oft-injured 32-year-old speedster is not a great plan. Henry Ruggs is the fastest player in college football right now and would provide a much-needed spark to this offense. He should open up tons of things underneath for Zach Ertz and Alshon Jeffrey given his route running and big-play tendencies.

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-7) – Grant Delpit, S, LSU
While Tampa Bay has succeeded in stuffing the run this season, the secondary is still a mess. The Buccaneers cut Vernon Hargreaves, whom they spent a first-round pick on in 2016. Grant Delpit hasn’t been quite as polished as I expected entering the year, but he is still a solid cover man with good instincts. He comes from a program that prepares defensive backs very well for the next level. Expect him to be a high-level starter within a few years for the Bucs.

14. Cleveland Browns (5-7) – Alex Leatherwood, OL, Alabama
Cleveland needs offensive line help. Just ask Baker Mayfield, who has been sacked 32 times in 2019. With the Browns potentially needing an upgrade at three of their five starting line spots, Alex Leatherwood is a good fit. He has played extremely well at left tackle for Alabama this year after starting at right guard all of last year. He has the versatility to slot where Cleveland thinks it needs the most help.

15. Carolina Panthers (5-7) – Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina
It is hard to know exactly which direction Carolina will head right now after firing Ron Rivera. Overall, the Panthers need some run defense help. They did give up almost 250 yards on the ground to Washington in Week 13. Javon Kinlaw is a disruptive defensive playmaker in the middle of the line. He eats up double teams at South Carolina and still finds a way to make his impact felt. Kinlaw moves well given his massive frame (6’6″, 310 pounds) and should help get Carolina’s defense back on track quickly.

16. Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears (6-6) – Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
It is no secret Mike Mayock likes Clemson players. He drafted three last year in Clelin Ferrel, Trayvon Mullens and Hunter Renfrow. He would do well to take another one in Tee Higgins given the lack of talent Oakland has at receiver. Higgins is a huge body at 6’4″ and presents a huge catch radius. He needs to improve his route running, but his athleticism makes up for the occasional lack of separation. Higgins could give Derek Carr a reliable possession receiver who is a huge asset in the red zone. Don’t underestimate his ability to stretch the field either.

17. Indianapolis Colts (6-6) – Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State
While Indy could definitely use a receiver, this is a deep draft for them and the Colts have pressing needs elsewhere. Yetur Gross-Matos is a high upside pass rusher who uses his hands well to set up his pass rush moves. He had back-to-back eight-sack seasons at Penn State and should help out right away as a situational pass rusher. Indianapolis could save nearly $10 million in cap space if it decides to move on from Justin Houston this offseason as well. Pass rusher feels like a position the Colts should highlight.

18. Oakland Raiders (6-6) – CJ Henderson Jr. CB Florida
There is no question Oakland needs help in the secondary. The Raiders have been torched the past two weeks by the Jets and Chiefs. There is a general lack of talent at the corner position, especially after jettisoning Gareon Conley midseason. With CJ Henderson still on the board, the Mike Mayock can swoop and nab a future starter at the position. Henderson closes well on the ball and has long arms to make plays in coverage. He needs to improve his bump-and-run play, but he would help a struggling unit slow down opposing offenses.

19. Tennessee Titans (7-5) – Tristan Wirfs, OL, Iowa
Tennessee doesn’t seem to have a long-term solution at quarterback, but with the first three off the board, taking anyone here would be a reach. Instead, the Titans should bolster what has been a disappointing offensive line this season. Tristan Wirfs has experience across the offensive line. Many scouts see him as a tackle. I think he projects best as a guard, but he could be one of the best in the league given his size and blocking ability. I think Tennessee’s offensive line will improve organically, but adding Wirfs would help speed up that process and lean into the team’s strength of running the ball.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams (7-5) – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
No one is going to step in and replace Jalen Ramsey from Day 1. That is just unrealistic. However, Trevon Diggs has all the physical tools and experience to turn into a really good corner in the NFL. He is taller for the position at 6’2″, but still has the quickness to make plays on the ball. A.J. Bouye is still in town, but in the current NFL, no team is going to get by with only one starting caliber corner. Diggs should be capable of taking over the other starting spot across from Bouye right away.

21. Dallas Cowboys (6-6) – Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford
Another taller corner at 6’1″, Paulson Adebo has had a great career at Stanford. He has four interceptions in each of his past two seasons and does a good job locking up opposing receivers. He is a physical defensive back who would add a bit of swagger to this Dallas secondary. With all the uncertainty around Byron Jones’ future, picking up another talented corner definitely wouldn’t hurt a Cowboys defensive backfield that hasn’t played its best this year.

22. Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers (7-5) – Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama
After taking Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins can pair him with his current right tackle (Tua is a lefty) at Alabama. Miami definitely could use some help at the tackle positions and Jedrick Wills can play either one. He fits the size profile of a prototypical NFL tackle at 6’5″, 320 pounds. Wills has made 26 straight starts for the Tide and shows good power in his game. His addition would help soften the blow of trading away Laremy Tunsil this past offseason.

23. Minnesota Vikings (8-4) – Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
At the beginning of the year, Minnesota’s concerns were mostly on offense primarily regarding the wide receiver depth and offensive line play. As the year’s gone on, it has been the defense that looks like it could use some improvement. The Vikings have a need at defensive tackle, but should opt instead to find a corner capable of playing across from Xavier Rhodes. Kristian Fulton fits that mold with good hand usage and speed guiding his game. He tracks the ball well downfield and is aggressive in closing underneath. He might not be the most physical corner in the world, but he can still come up to make tackles when needed.

24. Kansas City Chiefs (8-4) – Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
It is hard to have a ton of faith in Kansas City’s current cornerback tandem of Charvarius Ward and Breshad Breeland, granted Kendall Fuller is working his way back from injury. The Chiefs’ biggest weakness for the past two seasons has been the secondary. With the addition of Juan Thornhill, the safety spots are set, but KC needs to pick up a talented corner. The best one available here is Bryce Hall. He suffered an ankle injury that ended his season in October, but he has the skill set to transition quickly to the next level. Hall tracks the ball well in flight and high points it in coverage. He is one of the best cover corners in college football.

25. Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans (8-4) – D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Miami opts to keep rebuilding its offense here with the selection of D’Andre Swift. Ever since trading away Kenyan Drake, the running back position has been in flux. Swift has game-breaking ability and would be a huge plus to Dolphins’ ground game. He is an excellent runner, but also brings a lot to the table as a receiver. He has 70 catches in his career. A rookie quarterback’s best friend is always a good ground game and Swift will help Miami build that around Tua Tagovailoa.

26. Buffalo Bills (9-3) – Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
Josh Allen has taken a big step in his development as a passer this season with a slight upgrade in the talent around him. He still needs more weapons though, as the collection of John Brown, Cole Beasley and Dawson Knox is not going to cut it long term. Enter Justin Jefferson, who looks like the real deal in his breakout season with LSU. With over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns this year, he is drawing a lot of attention. He has good size at 6’3″ and definitely has the speed needed to find separation in the NFL.

27. Green Bay Packers (9-3) – Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
Aaron Rodgers hasn’t really looked like Aaron Rodgers this year, save one incredible masterpiece against the Raiders. He has failed to top 250 yards seven times this year, which is incredibly unRodgers-like. While it is clear Green Bay is more committed to running the ball, it needs a boost at receiver as well. Laviska Shenault Jr. has the playmaking capability to make an immediate impact. He is dynamic with the ball in his hands and is aggressive in snatching it out of the air. He feels like the type of player Rodgers could get in sync with very quickly, giving headaches to opposing defensive coordinators across from Davante Adams.

28. San Francisco 49ers (10-2) – Tyler Biadasz, OL Wisconsin
Kyle Shannahan wants to run the ball. He wants to do it a lot and do it effectively. He has a pretty good stable of running backs, but could use some new blood opening up holes for them. Tyler Biadasz is the best interior linemen in the country right now. He is an excellent pass blocker and has the strength to open up running lanes inside. If Biadasz can clean up some of the technical side of his game, he will be a slam-dunk pick here.

29. New England Patriots (10-2) – Creed Humphrey, G, Oklahoma
Isaiah Wynn’s return has definitely helped New England’s offense, but the interior of the line is still a mess. Go back and watch Tom Brady throwing the ball away because of the interior pressure over and over again against the Texans if you don’t believe me. Creed Humphrey would help resolve those problems given his consistent play. He is young as just a redshirt sophomore, but he should be capable of stepping in and starting from Day 1.

30. Seattle Seahawks (10-2) – Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State
Even with the addition of Jadeveon Clowney and Ziggy Ansah, the Seahawks need more help up front. Seattle has the fourth fewest sacks in the league this year, edging only Miami, Cincinnati and Atlanta. On top of that, both Clowney and Ansah are free agents this offseason. Curtis Weaver is a hard-working pass rusher with an exciting blend of power and speed. He has the fifth-most sacks in college football this season with 14. Expect him to rise into the top 20 if he runs well at the combine.

31. Baltimore Ravens (10-2) – Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State
This offense in Baltimore is built around Lamar Jackson, and he could use some more pass catchers around him. After spending a first rounder on speedster Marquise Brown last year, the Ravens could swoop in for another talented receiver in Tylan Wallace. The Oklahoma State standout is a great threat downfield thanks to his ability to rise above defenders and make plays. He needs to work on his route tree a bit coming out of a wide open system, but he offers a reliable target with athletic upside to make plays in the red zone.

32. New Orleans Saints (10-2) – Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
Michael Thomas is the best receiver in the NFL right now, but the Saints don’t really have anyone to pair with him. The combination of Ted Ginn, Austin Carr, Tre’Quan Smith and Deonte Harris don’t really provide a ton to work with. Jalen Reagor is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and plays with a chip on his shoulder. He will make tough catches in traffic and if he can get into the open field, few defenders can catch him. Reagor would be a lot of fun to watch in Sean Payton’s offense.

For more NFL Draft coverage, check out the Aftermath’s NFL Draft Podcast, with new episodes every Thursday.

2020 NFL Mock Draft: Joe Burrow moves into top 5

November 4, 2019November 4, 2019 Chris McGlynn Draft, Football, NCAA, NCAAF, NFL 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, College Football, Football, NFL, Tua Tagovailoa

Welcome fans of struggling teams to another NFL mock draft. For those of us who support teams that look extremely uncompetitive, this is a good way to find something to get excited about in a lost season. This is already my third mock draft of the year. I expect wide receivers to dominate round one and a healthy number of corners to go as well. The race for either Tua or Burrow might be on, but there is a lot to like about other elite prospects in Chase Young, Andrew Thomas and Jeffrey Okudah.

The draft order is being determined by the Super Bowl odds after Sunday of Week 9 from Caesar’s Sportsbook. Tiebreakers were decided by strength of schedule. Obviously, this draft order is subject to a lot of change still, but after nine weeks of the NFL season, this is where all 32 teams stand. Don’t get mad at me for where your team is picking. It’s time for this November mock draft to get underway.

1. Miami Dolphins (20000-1) – Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
Miami comes into the draft with three first-round picks and they have to use one to address the quarterback position. Tua Tagovailoa is still the best quarterback in college football. He has tons of big game experience on his resume. Tagovailoa is pro ready as well, even if he doesn’t have elite arm strength. When it comes to traits, he has incredible accuracy and can use his legs to make plays outside the pocket.

2. Cincinnati Bengals (20000-1) – Joe Burrow
No one has been worse against the run this season than the Bengals, but they also have no future at quarterback. Andy Dalton may be under contract through 2020, but that shouldn’t stop Cincinnati from drafting their heir apparent. Joe Burrow has seen his draft stock skyrocket to the point where he will almost definitely be a top-five selection. He is the front-runner for the Heisman currently and has looked very strong against an incredibly tough schedule at LSU. We will get a chance to see Burrow play Tua and company next week as well.

3. New York Jets (20000-1) – Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State
The Jets need a lot of help on both sides of the ball. While Andrew Thomas should definitely be considered here, Chase Young is too good to pass up. Choosing to nab the best player in the draft seems like a good way to speed up a rebuild. After trading away Leonard Williams, New York could definitely use a new pass rusher. Young is a beast with the potential to be even better than the Ohio State defensive linemen that came before him. He would offer a terrifying duo with Quinnen Williams along that defensive line. There is no question the Jets need the help there with just 13 sacks as a team this season.

4. Washington (10000-1) – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Trent Williams ended his holdout, but is still refusing to play this year. It is a lost season in D.C. and this team will definitely have finding Williams’ replacement high on the to-do list for the offseason. Andrew Thomas might just be the best way to do that. He is the most talented and most polished tackle prospect in this class and he should slot in as the starter from Day 1. Washington invested in Dwayne Haskins last year and now it is time to help keep him upright.

5. Atlanta Falcons (5000-1) – A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
This has been a horrible season for the Falcons, who should be shocked to be drafting in the top five given the expectations for this group entering the year. No team in the league has fewer sacks (7) than Atlanta this season. Adding A.J. Epenesa should help turn that around right away. He is excellent with his hands and has the size to be a great NFL pass rusher. His numbers have been down this year, but he has a lot of potential and previous production to make me think he will transition well to the NFL.

6. New York Giants (1500-1) – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
After a promising start, Daniel Jones’ inaugural season has gone sideways. New York certainly has holes defensively, but it cannot pass up on the opportunity to take the top receiver in the draft. With Odell Beckham Jr. in Cleveland, the receiving corps for the Giants this year features a 31-year old Golden Tate, a banged up Sterling Shepard and a promising Darius Slayton. Jerry Jeudy would immediately become the best receiver in that group and create a fun offensive trio with Evan Engram and Saquon Barkley. Someone fittingly, he has drawn comparisons to Odell Bekcham Jr.

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1000-1) – Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State
Surprisingly, Tampa’s front seven has been one of the best in the NFL this season. The Buccaneers are allowing the fewest rush yards per game and second fewest yards per attempt this season. However, the secondary is giving up the second most yards per game. Jeffrey Okudah gives Tampa a lockdown corner of the future. He has the makings of an elite press corner given his agility and instincts. Okudah is a sure tackler in space as well.

8. Arizona Cardinals (1000-1) – Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
Heading into the year, I really thought this team needed another receiver, but it seems like Arizona has invested well in players who can contribute at the position in the future. Plus this is a deep receiver draft. Instead, the Cardinals add a defensive playmaker in Isaiah Simmons. He is a converted linebacker playing safety now, but still operates heavily down in the box. Simmons is one of the most reliable players in this Clemson defense and offers the versatility NFL teams are after.

9. Denver Broncos (500-1) – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Cortland Sutton seems like a receiver Denver can rely on, but after that it lacks proven players to contribute in this passing game. DaeSean Hamilton has shown flashes, but Emmanuel Sanders is gone and leaves a big hole in the offense. Taking CeeDee Lamb is a great fit for a team that needs a player capable of making things happen after the catch. There might not be a receiver in college football better at making plays in space than Lamb right now.

10. Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears (400-1) – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn
Oakland has made some serious strides this year on offense, but the defense is still lagging behind. With Clelin Ferrell already on board, the Raiders can opt to bring in an interior pass rusher with great size in Derrick Brown. He is part of arguably the best defensive line in college football and he is the most complete player on it. Brown would be a welcome addition to this defense. The Raiders have another first round pick to continue to reshape the defense, so it can afford to go best player available.

11. Tennessee Titans (300-1) – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Ryan Tannehill has been a nice surprise as a fill-in starter for the Titans, but he is not a long-term solution. Tennessee might have some reservations about drafting another Oregon quarterback after Marcus Mariota, but Justin Herbert is definitely the best passer remaining. He has struggled at times in big games, but his physical talents and past success make him a first-round caliber quarterback. He will certainly need a bit of work to fix some of the technical issues in his game, but he has the arm and smarts to succeed at the next level.

12. Cleveland Browns (200-1) – Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama
This hasn’t changed at all. Cleveland needs all kinds of offensive line help, particularly at left tackle. Alex Leatherwood might be a little green at the position, but he is learning on the job and faring extremely well for Alabama. He started at right guard last season before he took over for Jonah Williams at left tackle this year. Leatherwood has not missed a beat. He has the potential to develop into a great blindside blocker. We will learn a long more about him as he faces some great defensive lines down the stretch.

13. Detroit Lions (200-1) – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
Detroit needs defensive help in the worst way. The secondary is giving up the third-most yards per game this season and wasting what has been an impressive year from Matt Stafford. Trevon Diggs would give Matt Patricia a tall corner capable of pressing at the line. He has the athleticism and length to become a top-tier corner at the next level. He is a solid tackler who also has three interceptions already in his senior season. Diggs should be able to contribute right away.

14. Los Angeles Chargers (75-1) – D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
This has not been the type of season most expected from the Chargers. There is chatter about Los Angeles finding the quarterback of the future, but they have to address the very clear issue plaguing the offense in the present. It can’t run the ball consistently. Melvin Gordon will be gone at the end of the year. Time to grab a potentially game-changing running back in D’Andre Swift. The Georgia standout is a complete back with very little mileage from his time in college. Swift is also a great receiver out of the backfield. He should help get this team playing more balanced offensively.

15. Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers (75-1) – Tyler Biadasz, C Wisconsin
After taking Tua Tagovailoa, Miami can start to build up the offensive line in front of him. Tyler Biadasz is an extremely polished prospect who should be able to start at center from Day 1. He is a rock in pass protection and does a nice job as a move blocker in the run game. The Dolphins have a pair of young guards they like in Michael Deiter and Evan Boehm, with Deiter actually being a fellow Wisconsin product. Miami could certainly target a tackle, but with Andrew Thomas and Alex Leatherwood off the board, taking the best interior lineman bodes well for the future of that offense.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars (75-1) – Henry Ruggs, WR, Alabama
You know what they say, speed kills. Henry Ruggs has top-end speed that would rival any player in the NFL. Jacksonville can use the first of its two first-round picks to help add that game-breaking element to its offense. Dede Westbrook has been good, but he has not had a whole lot of help from his fellow receivers. Ruggs would immediately help the development of Gardner Minshew and open up so much for this offensive system. He could have a Tyreek Hill-type impact.

17. Oakland Raiders (60-1) – CJ Henderson, CB, Florida
Oakland already jettisoned one former first round pick it had at corner. Gareon Conley is now suiting up for the Texans. Clearly, the secondary could use a boost. CJ Henderson looks the part of a lockdown corner and has the athleticism to develop into a true number one option. He has long arms and closes well to the football in coverage. He still has to work on his press play, struggling to jam receivers at the line, but he should be capable of contributing right away.

18. Carolina Panthers (40-1) – Tristan Wirfs, OL, Iowa
So far this year, Carolina has quickly realized the value Christian McCaffrey has in this offense and Cam Newton has been banged up. That points to bolstering the offensive line in the draft. Many think Tristan Wirfs has left tackle potential, but I feel he would be better as interior lineman. Greg Van Roten will be a free agent at the end of the season, creating a void at left guard. Wirfs could slot there from Day 1 and maybe even develop into a tackle down the line. He brings a nastiness in the run game that would only help McCaffrey’s effectiveness.

19. Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams (25-1) – Krisitan Fulton, CB, LSU
Jalen Ramsey is gone and it is time to go about finding a replacement. Using one of the picks it got for Ramsey, taking Kristian Fulton should help fill the void. Fulton is not Ramsey and probably never will be. He is a tough, determined corner with a nose for the football. He comes out of a school known for producing great secondary players as well in LSU. This is his first full year as a starter, so it would definitely be nice to see a larger sample size. What we have seen though is extremely promising.

20. Seattle Seahawks (20-1) – Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State
Seattle is in desperate need of a pass rusher. With only two sacks on Sunday, the Seahawks got torched by Jameis Winston. Yetur Gross-Matos has the potential to develop into a double-digit sack guy. He has heavy hands that allow him to control opposing linemen and has the size to handle himself against NFL-caliber tackles. The Penn State star also has an incredible motor and checks the character box as well. Seattle would be getting a well-rounded player.

21. Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans (35-1) – Grant Delpit, S, LSU
Miami grabbed a quarterback and an interior lineman, now it’s time to help the defense. After trading away Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Dolphins could use another dynamic safety. Grant Delpit has struggled at times with tackling this year, but he is impressive at diagnosing plays and in coverage. His skillset makes him a really nice option to cover tight ends at the next level. He should be a fun pairing in the secondary with Xavien Howard for years to come (unless they trade him too).

22. Indianapolis Colts (35-1) – Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State
I strongly debated going with Jake Fromm here, but I think the Colts have faith in Jacoby Brissett. So instead, Indy addresses the defense by adding another pass rusher. This team has been middle of the road in rushing the passer this season and if it decides not to keep Justin Houston’s hefty cap hit, Curtis Weaver would be a good addition. He is relentless and loves to bull rush offensive linemen. Weaver has been a disruptive force for this Boise State defense for the past three years and should continue doing just that for the Colts.

23. Minnesota Vikings (18-1) – Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina
Kirk Cousins has answered a lot of questions about his ability to lead this team. However, the defense suddenly seems a lot less capable than it did at the start of the season. Javon Kinlaw would be fun to watch in this 4-3 system. He is a dominant pass rusher at South Carolina right now, regularly drawing double teams and extra attention. Teams wouldn’t be able to do that with Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffin lining up next to him. He also feels like a nice complement to Lindval Joseph. Adding another disruptive defensive player like Kinlaw should take pressure off the offense.

24. Philadelphia Eagles (14-1) – Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford
The Eagles desperately need secondary help. Sidney Jones has been unable to stay on the field and the combo of Avonte Maddox and Ronald Darby isn’t cutting it. Paulson Adebo is a feared man at Stanford with the Pac-12 no longer even bothering to throw at him. Rightfully so given his eight interceptions in 21 career games. Adebo could immediately provide some corner depth and projects as a long-term starter. He is a ball-hawking corner who should bring some physicality to this Philly secondary.

25. Buffalo Bills (35-1) – Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
Buffalo has a championship level defense, but it needs to bring its offense up to speed. John Brown and Cole Beasley are nice complements to a top-tier receiver. Laviska Shenault Jr. has shown flashes of being just that in the past two years at Colorado. He moves extremely well for a player that measures in at 6’2″ and 220 pounds. Shenault is really good with the ball in his hands, leading Colorado to use him as a wildcat quarterback sometimes just to get him more touches. He should provide some playmaking to a Bills offense in desperate need of it.

26. Baltimore Ravens (12-1) – Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
Baltimore has built an offense around running the ball. While they could probably use another receiver here, it is hard to pass up on an electric running back like Travis Etienne. He is averaging nine yards per carry this season for Clemson and has game-breaking ability. Mark Ingram has been solid this year, but will turn 30 in December. This gives the Ravens another playmaker to deploy in either the run or pass game. Just imagine Etienne running read options with Lamar Jackson.

27. Dallas Cowboys (11-1) – Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
It is hard to know what direction the Cowboys will be headed this offseason with a number of crucial pieces of this roster set to be free agents. With its inquiry into Jamal Adams, there is no question Dallas is interested in bringing in some help at safety though. Xavier McKinney is the best one on the board and projects as a future starter. He is explosive and plays downhill. McKinney seems to be a solid cover option, even shifting down in a nickel role sometimes. His versatility makes him a fun addition to this defense.

28. San Francisco 49ers (8-1) – Walker Little, OT, Stanford
Through nine weeks of NFL play, the 49ers are the lone remaining unbeaten team. Vegas doesn’t have them as Super Bowl favorites though, having them tied for second to win in the conference. There does not seem to be too many needs on this team though. One potential hole that could form would be if Joe Staley retired this offseason. Even if he doesn’t, finding his future replacement wouldn’t be a bad idea. Walker Little went down during the first week of the season with a knee injury, but when healthy he looks like a future left tackle in the NFL. He moves pretty well and shows good bend for the position. At 6’7″, he certainly fits the size profile.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (11-1) – Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
Kansas City’s defense has actually played much better in recent weeks, but that does not mean it is fixed. The Chiefs could definitely use some help on the backend. Bryce Hall went down with a serious ankle injury earlier this year, but assuming he makes a full recovery, he has first-round potential. Hall has the size and ball skills to turn into a solid starting option pretty quickly. He has a ton of college experience and would be a nice addition to what has typically been a struggling secondary.

30. Green Bay Packers (8-1) – Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
If Sunday’s offensive meltdown against the Chargers wasn’t a clear enough reason the Packers need some help at receiver, I don’t know what will be. Davante Adams finally returned, but that was not enough to propel this offense. Jalen Reagor might just be the solution to Green Bay’s problems. He is an explosive receiver who has a great catch radius given his size. He is aggressive when catching the ball, using his hands to catch it away from his body. Reagor might not be quite as fast as Henry Ruggs, but he might be a more complete receiver ready to compete on Day 1.

31. New Orleans Saints (9-2) – Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State
This team is geared up for a Super Bowl run right now and will want to get the most out of Drew Brees’ final few seasons. Michael Thomas is a beast and arguably the best receiver in the NFL, but the Saints could use someone to play across from him. Tylan Wallace feels like a good fit. He is more than capable of taking the top off a defense and does an excellent job winning jump balls. He is also a decent route runner who has the awareness to be a possession receiver. Wallace did go down for the rest of the college season with a torn ACL, but he has shown enough potential to warrant a first round selection.

32. New England Patriots (2-1) – Creed Humphrey, G, Oklahoma
If there is an area of need on this team it is along the offensive line. Injuries and inconsistent play have really hurt the Patriots all season long. Creed Humphrey is a rock-solid prospect with tons of experience. He was the lone returning starter this season on the line for Oklahoma. He is solid in pass protection and as a run blocker. He can slot in at either guard spot and give New England a steadier option than anything they’ve been able to find this year.

For more NFL Draft coverage, check out the Aftermath’s NFL Draft Podcast, with new episodes every Thursday.

2020 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50

October 28, 2019October 28, 2019 Chris McGlynn Draft, Football, NCAA, NCAAF, NFL 2020 NFL Draft, Big Board, College Football, Football, NFL

With October winding down, we now have eight full weeks of college football action under our belts. While the best is still yet to come, we have already seen a lot from the best college football has to offer. At the end of each month, I set about ranking my top prospects heading into the upcoming draft. There is still a long ways to go, but this acts as a barometer for how players have separated themselves through the first two months of the year. To see how much things have already changed, feel free to check out my top 25 from the end of September.

This class is stacked at receiver and has really good depth at corner and running back. The quarterback group is starting to come together, but maybe doesn’t look quite as strong as we initially thought. Without further ado, let’s dive in.

1. Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
There is a drop after the top two prospects. That is mostly because of how dominant these two players are in Jerry Jeudy and Chase Young. Young put up four sacks on Saturday vs. Wisconsin. He is simply unfair to deal with.

2. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
Don’t overthink this one. Jerry Jeudy is a stud. He will be a top-tier receiver from his first snap in the NFL. He is even showing he can do it without Tua Tagovailoa.

3. Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
Another ankle injury to Tagovailoa is troubling, but Tua has separated himself from the rest of the QB class. There is some potential for Joe Burrow to close the gap some and we will get to see them play head-to-head in a few weeks. Cannot wait for that game.

4. Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State
There are a lot of schools who claim to be DB University. Jeff Okudah is helping Ohio State’s case. He is a great man coverage defender and does an excellent job tackling in space.

5. AJ Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
The production has not been there this season for AJ Epenesa, but the talent still is. He is commanding a lot of attention in every game for Iowa. He has a little bit of J.J. Watt in him, which is a great thing for any prospect.

6. Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Any team looking for a future starting left tackle will have its eye on Andrew Thomas. He is an elite pass blocker who has performed against top competition. He feels like a lock for the top 10, maybe even the top five.

7. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
There might not be a better receiver after the catch in this draft than CeeDee Lamb. He is super elusive and shows great vision. He is clearly very athletic, even if he won’t blow you away with speed.

8. D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
In the modern day NFL, running backs need to be able to catch the ball out of the backfield frequently. D’Andre Swift has proven he is more than capable. He already has 900 yards from scrimmage in seven games this season.

9. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
This is an elite wide receiver class. Tee Higgins could very well be the top option in other draft years. He is dominant in the red zone and routinely makes big plays downfield.

10. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
Up until a meeting with Ohio State, Jonathan Taylor had looked unstoppable. Clearly he is mortal, but that one game should not undermine all the work he has done in his career. The workload is a concern, but he has workhorse back potential at the next level.

11. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
Some questionable tackling has knocked Grant Delpit down the board a little bit, but he is still a decisive playmaker. Safeties have slid in the past few years and that could happen again, but Delpit should be a Day 1 starter.

Auburn_Tigers_logo 12. Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn
When you look at Derrick Brown, you might peg him as a run stopper. At 6’5″, roughly 320 pounds, that’s not a bad guess, but he also moves well as a pass rusher. Brown has three sacks this year and is handful for interior offensive linemen to deal with.

13. Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
One of the most dependable prospects in this class, Tyler Biadasz looks like a future All-Pro center. His base is so strong and he clearly has the mental traits needed to excel at the position in the NFL.

14. Henry Ruggs, WR, Alabama
Nobody can run with Henry Ruggs in football. He is electric in the open field. At six feet tall, he has good size for someone with his speed. Ruggs should be a run player for any offensive coordinator to use at the next level.

15. Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
Yetur Gross-Matos made some noise last year and he has followed it up with another solid campaign. His hand usage is excellent and he might just have the best motor of anyone in the nation. Super high-character guy as well.

16. Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson
The biggest question surrounding Isaiah Simmons is what position teams see him at in the NFL. The line between safeties and linebackers is blurring more and more at the pro level. Someone will find a spot for the versatile Simmons in there defense.

17. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
It wasn’t his best performance of the year, but Joe Burrow put together a gritty performance to beat Auburn. Not every game is going to be super clear cut. Burrow continues to show his ability to adapt and make plays as needed.

18. Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
Clemson is chock full of talented offensive players and rarely does Travis Etienne get his due respect. He is one of the most productive players in college football. He should be a good change of pace back right away.

colorado_buffaloes_alternate_logo 19. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
This has been a tough season for Laviska Shenault Jr. He was dominant in 2018, but he struggled out of the gates this year. Against USC, he finally showed up with a big game. At his best, he can be a game-changing receiver with great run after the catch ability.

20. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
Based on size alone, Trevon Diggs was going to draw the attention of NFL scouts. It also helps he plays for ‘Bama. His 84-yard pick-six Saturday will help as well. He plays with the aggression needed to be a no. 1 corner.

21. Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State
For the second straight year, Curtis Weaver is one of the most disruptive players in college football. He is an excellent pass rusher with good size and the potential to play in either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. If he keeps racking up sacks, 9.5 already in 2019, he might not last this long.

22. Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Justin Herbert has not had the type of season most expected of him. He has flashed special arm talent, but his accuracy is a concern. Herbert has not handled pressure well either and seems like he will need a bit of seasoning before becoming a quality starter.

23. CJ Henderson, CB, Florida
Scouts will love his frame, but CJ Henderson’s closing speed is generating first-round buzz. The biggest knock is his press coverage, but he excels in zone looks and has long arms to make critical plays downfield.

24. Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State
With such a great receiver class, Tylan Wallace can get overlooked, but he is a proven playmaker. He high points the ball and will burn corners off the line. He reminds me a bit of Green Bay’s Davante Adams.

25. Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina
Given the level of competition Javon Kinlaw is facing, he has earned first-round consideration. He has been a great interior pass rusher for South Carolina. Kinlaw regularly faces double teams and loves to compete.

26. Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama
At 6’6″, 310 pounds, Alex Leatherwood is built like a prototypical NFL left tackle. Leatherwood spent all of 2018 at right guard, but has looked very comfortable at left tackle this season. He isn’t the blindside blocker because Tua Tagovailoa is a lefty, but he should be a first rounder.

27. Walker Little, OT, Stanford
This offensive line class took a hit when Walker Little went down in Stanford’s season opener. He moves well in space and has shown a tendency to finish blocks in the run game. Little projects as a future left tackle in the pros.

28. Triston Wirfs, OG, Iowa
After watching Triston Wirfs this year, I don’t see how he can play outside in the NFL. He looks incredible in the run game, but he does not move well enough to be a tackle at the next level. If he kicks inside, I think he could have a good career.

29. Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
Georgia’s offense has ground to a halt in recent weeks and Jake Fromm deserves some blame for that. He doesn’t have the same type of arm talent to make up for some mental mistakes or missed throws as the other top QBs in this draft.

30. Kristian Fulton, DB, LSU
If you ask me, the real DB University is in Baton Rouge and Kristian Fulton seems set to join the ranks of quality defensive backs joining the NFL. He is athletic and unafraid. The one thing is he likely the third-best player in LSU’s secondary this year, so it is hard to tell how he will fair as the top option at the next level.

31. Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford
Teams around the Pac-12 have already realized it’s best not to throw at Paulson Adebo. He has eight interceptions over the past two years and the size to deal with taller receivers. If he runs well at the combine, he could go top 20.

32. Terrell Lewis, EDGE, Alabama
Another player coming off a major injury, Terrell Lewis has put up good numbers this year in his return. He is tops in the SEC in sacks and tackles for loss.

33. Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame
He can disappear at times, but Julian Okwara can explode for big games on any given day. He has good power and will bully smaller offensive linemen. If he can find some consistency, he should rise up draft boards.

34. K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU
I was disappointed with K’Lavon Chaisson early on this season, but I think I might have been too harsh on him coming off a torn ACL. He has shown the ability to be more than just a pass rusher. He is a bit small, but he has great speed.

35. Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
With teams looking for versatility in defensive backs, Xaiver McKinney should make a good impression at the NFL level. He is a good tackler who has shown flashes of an ability to hold up in coverage.

36. Dylan Moses, LB, Alabama
This was a lost season for Dylan Moses after tearing his ACL in camp. Given the injury, he could return to school for another season, but if he comes out and passes medicals, he has shown enough to go fairly early.

37. Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
If you don’t find a way to bottle him up, Jalen Reagor will burn you. He has had a much quieter 2019, but his speed is for real. With a great receiver class to compete with, he is sliding a bit.

38. Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
Without question, Jacob Eason has an NFL caliber arm. He has not shown the decision making or poise to match that. He has been a bit up and down this season, far too inconsistent for me to think he should be a first rounder. Someone will still probably reach for him.

39. Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Outside of a rough game from the entire Oklahoma defense Saturday against Kansas State, Kenneth Murray has had a great year. He already has 55 tackles this year, including 7.5 for loss. Murray has a nose for the ball and the athleticism to get there.

40. Lucas Niang, OT, TCU
Projecting as a right tackle, Lucas Niang saw his season end early. He will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a torn hip labrum. Niang made the decision to get the surgery now with hopes of being able to participate in the combine.

41. Kenny Willekes, DE, Michigan State
As a redshirt senior, Kenney Willekes is one of the elder statesmen of this draft class. He is a great run stopper who simply doesn’t have as much talent around him this year. He has not shown the ability to wreck a game by himself, but he will be a useful piece in any defense.

42. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
Already up to fourth in Buckeyes history in rushing, J.K. Dobbins is on track to pass Eddie George and Ezekiel Elliott before the season is over. That is some great company and after ripping apart the Wisconsin defense, he has earned it.

Utah_Utes_logo 43. Jaylon Johnson, DB, Utah
Utah often gets overlooked and so do there best players. Jaylon Johnson does not get much national press, but he is one of the top corners in this draft. He plays with the mentality of a lockdown corner and could very well develop into a good one.

44. Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
He might be on the shelf right now with a thumb injury, but Troy Dye has made a case for being one of the better linebackers in the nation. He has led Oregon in tackles for three straight years. The injury will probably keep him from doing it again, but he is a fundamentally sound prospect.

45. Creed Humphrey, G, Oklahoma
As the lone returning starter along the Oklahoma offensive line, Creed Humphrey has been crucial to the Sooners’ success this season. He is a rock solid interior line prospect who could challenge for a starting spot as soon as he arrives in camp.

46. Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama
I don’t know that there is a larger presence, literally, in college football this year than Raekwon Davis. Alabama lists him at 6’7″, 312 pounds. He draws a lot of attention from opposing defenses as soon as he steps on the field. Davis hasn’t been as dominant this year, but his physical tools keep him as a top 50 prospect.

47. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
In the midst of a breakout season, Justin Jefferson is flying up draft boards. He might not be the best receiver on his own team, but Jefferson has blossomed in this new-look LSU offense. He can separate from defenders and makes some touch catches.

48. Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State
Ohio State’s defense is stacked with playmakers, but Malik Harrison has still found a way to stand out. He has 9.5 tackles for loss this year and seems to just fly around the field. It’s tough to tell if he is a product of the system or truly an elite prospect though.

49. Oluwole Betiku Jr., EDGE, Illinois
One of my favorite players in this draft, Oluwole Betiku Jr. has shown up in a big way in 2019. He is still incredibly raw, but with 11.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks, he is showing a knack for causing trouble. In a year or two, he has the potential to rack up double-digit sacks in the NFL.

50. Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State
If you didn’t already know, Chuba Hubbard leads college football in rushing yards this season. He has been a bellcow for Oklahoma State. If he can show some signs of being a reliable receiver down the stretch, he could start drawing some first round attention.

NFL Draft Podcast Episode 6

October 17, 2019October 17, 2019 Chris McGlynn Draft, Football, NCAA, NCAAF, NFL, Podcast 2020 NFL Draft, College Football, Football, Georgia Bulldogs, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jalen Ramsey, Los Angeles Rams

There is no shortage of drama in football this week as Jalen Ramsey heads west and the College Football Playoff suffered a major shakeup as Georgia went down. Catch up on all of that and check out this week’s studs and sleepers. Plus find out which games to watch and the prospects to watch in each contest. You can find every episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

The Aftermath

When sporting news breaks, we cover the fallout.

2020 NFL Draft

7 prospects who can boost their stock during bowl season

2020 NFL Mock Draft: Tua still top 5?

2020 NFL Mock Draft: Joe Burrow moves into top 5

2020 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50

NFL Draft Podcast Episode 6

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