NFL Draft 2021 Prospect Rankings

What more is there to say about Trevor Lawrence? Some have anointed him as the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck. Others have gone back as far as John Elway. From the moment he led Clemson to a national championship in 2019, he has been destined to go #1 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

In terms of measurables, he is the typical “traditional” build for a quarterback. At 6’ 6” and 220 lbs, you would expect Lawrence to be a pocket passer with a cannon for an arm. That isn’t untrue, but it also doesn’t tell us the whole story. For a bigger QB, Lawrence can move. He is comfortable rolling out of the pocket and making throws on the run. If there’s nobody open downfield, he’s happy to tuck the ball and run. Lawrence doesn’t do this enough to be labelled a “dual threat”, but like Joe Burrow, it is a secret weapon that he can rely on sparingly to keep defences guessing. He has 861 total rushing yards, and 16 rushing TDs, in his three years at Clemson. Impressive, but not a central theme of his game.

The best prospect in a generation 

His greatest attribute is his vision. He is able to see situations before they develop, and deliver the ball into the tightest of windows. The ball zips out of his hands with impressive accuracy. He is an incisive passer - the ball doesn’t often spend too long in his hands after the snap. At times, he can lock onto his primary target, particularly on downfield throws. This means that the dump off pass to his slot receiver can be overlooked.

The postseason will be of paramount importance to Lawrence from an evaluation standpoint. He missed the most challenging of Clemson’s regular season games, a trip to Notre Dame, after testing positive for Covid-19. Facing them in the ACC championship game before the playoffs should prove the firmest test of the year. The Notre Dame defence managed to shut The Tigers down with backup DJ Uiagalelei under centre. Can Lawrence elevate the Clemson offence enough to secure a second national championship? It would be the perfect way to end his college career.

2021 NFL Draft Pick 

A quick note on whether he will declare: I would be amazed if he returned to Death Valley for his Senior year. He has yet to formally declare for the 2021 NFL Draft, but may do so once Clemson’s season is concluded. He isn’t the type to take the attention away from the program's goals for personal gain.

And the notion that he will “pull an Eli”? If you know anything about the characters of the two men, you’d know this isn’t going to happen. Manning, pushed by his father, was desperate to play in the “New York market”. The idea that a guy like Lawrence would avoid a tough landing spot in the NFL neglects his competitive nature. Deep down, he’ll be excited to become the name that turned a franchise’s fortunes around.

Penei Sewell is not only the top tackle in this draft class, but the top player not named Trevor Lawrence in the 2021 NFL Draft.

It is scary just how good he is. Despite sitting out the 2020 season following the PAC-12 opt out, Sewell has not moved an inch from the number 2 rank on our big board.

Sewell has everything you want from a tackle - athleticism, strength, explosiveness. And that's just for starters. In the running game, Sewell regularly gets under oncoming defenders and pushes them back. He makes gaps for his back and has incredible balance. In the passing game, he is quick to position and forces rushers away from his quarterback.

He has been solid in almost every aspect of his game at the college level, and it is very tough to spot areas of improvement.

The one thing I have seen on tape is his hand placement against an onrushing defender. At times, it can be too wide and he gets caught in the chest. This was against the top calibre defenders, and examples can be counted on one hand. With a talent as good as Sewell, you end up nit picking.

As previously mentioned, Sewell has the ideal size, speed and power for a top tier left tackle. There's no such thing as a sure thing, but he could be a sure fire pro bowler wherever he lands.

Ja'Marr Chase set a single-season SEC record for receiving yards and TDs in an incredible 2019 season, winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award in the process.

Despite not being the biggest or fastest receiver in the draft, Chase ticks almost every box you could wish for. He is an elite route runner with the ability to both win at the line of scrimmage but also late in the route. Chase is a natural hands catcher who is not fazed by contested catches and shows an ability to go up and get the ball in traffic. He has shown an awareness to beat both man and zone coverage something that will transition very well to the next level. Chase will come in and be the teams #1 receiver from day one. This is the guy that pushed Justin Jefferson to the slot after all!

Having chosen to forgo his 2020 season due to COVID-19 it could be a question mark for Chase who will not have played football for over 19 months come the start of the 2021 NFL season. However, if 2020 showed us anything, it’s that elite rookie receivers can hit the ground running despite a challenging pre-season.

If Trevor Lawrence chose not to enter the 2021 NFL Draft, Fields is quite clearly the best quarterback remaining on the board. He first rose to fame as a high school recruit in the Netflix series QB1, and has since risen to national prominence. A backup transfer from Georgia, Fields lit up the Ohio State offence upon his arrival in 2019. He had big shoes to fill in Dwayne Haskins, but Fields exceeded all expectations.

He has a powerful arm, and is accurate with it, too. The ball leaves his hands quickly and with power. Ryan Day’s pro-style offence will make his transition to NFL level notably easier. He has excelled on RPO play calls. Fields has good manoeuvrability in the pocket, with a clear “feel” for pass rushers while he keeps his eyes downfield. He has 239 yards on the ground in 2020, although nearly half of these (44%) came in the Week 14 win over Michigan State. With 19 career rushing touchdowns to date, NFL defences will have to spy the QB run in the red zone against Fields.

Questions about Fields 

It is early days, but questions have already been raised about Fields’ ability to handle pressure. In the Buckeyes’ defeat to Clemson in the 2020 college football playoff semi-final against Clemson, a game winning drive was cut short by a late interception. It was a miscommunication between Fields and his receiver Chris Olave, with many laying the blame with Olave. When Indiana came to Columbus this year, Fields was shocked by the blitz packages that The Hoosiers had put together. In this game, he threw all 3 of his interceptions for the year. Fields, like most rookies, would benefit for some time to learn under a seasoned veteran, but his ability may mean that he will not get that chance.

Any worries that Fields’ career will follow a similar trajectory to Dwayne Haskins should be calmed by the tape. It is clear that Fields elevates the talent around him, whereas under Haskins the opposite could be claimed. Like any rookie quarterback, landing spot is so important for Justin Fields in the 2021 NFL Draft. Unless a trade occurs, it is looking like New York or Jacksonville. Neither has a reputation for nurturing young QBs, so there’s some reason to worry about what the future holds. He has the talent to succeed, but there are so many other factors to bring into consideration.

DeVonta Smith is a production monster. He has hauled in over 1250 yards and 14 TDs in both his Junior and Senior season. This past season, he has been the focal point of the Alabama offence. Smith is a fantastic route runner who gains separation with ease, a result of his natural agility and ease and which he moves in and out of breaks. He wins at the line of scrimmage, a trait that will transfer well to the next level.

The question marks around Smith are mainly physical. He does not possess elite speed instead relying on the scheme and his route running ability to get open. He is a willing blocker, but can sometimes be bullied in the run game. For somebody his size, he doesn’t have a natural comparison in the NFL. Other receivers less than 180 lbs are either elite speed deep threats or undersized slot receivers. A receiver standing at 6’1” who is less than 180lbs doesn't have a pro comparison to date.

Smith is an elite talent but will have a question mark about whether he can be an outside receiver at the next level. If a team is taking him in the 1st Round, they’ll be expecting a lot more than a slot receiver.

The hype surrounding Kyle Pitts is real. He may be the most hyped college TE of the last 10 years. He is an absolute physical freak, a wide receiver in a tight end’s body. In 2019 Pitts didn’t qualify for the John Mackey Award, given to the nation’s top TE, as he didn’t contribute enough in the blocking game. During the offseason, he dedicated himself to blocking and is now more of a complete prospect. He is a willing and able blocker, but is never going to be a true dual-threat TE because of how much he contributes in the passing game. Good news for your fantasy team!

Pitts is a natural receiver who uses his huge frame to outmuscle and out position defenders to ensure he comes down with the ball. His athleticism is off the charts and he will show out at this year’s combine. One small criticism is on his route running, which can be slightly lazy and not as sharp as it could be. This is because he relies on his frame to create separation. If Pitts can improve his route running, he may be the complete receiving tight end in the NFL.

This kid is fun to watch! He is lean for his height, and shows promising athleticism. Naturally, he is an adept runner. For his 13 rushing touchdowns in his time at BYU, he has averaged just 3 yards per carry. Like the two QBs above him in this list, he uses his feet as a last resort if his receivers fail to get open. This is something the BYU offence has rarely struggled with against their opponents.

In 2019, interceptions were a problem. He threw 9 of his 15 career INTs in his sophomore year. In 2020 however, he has been more secure when throwing the football. One worry is his shoulder, on which he has previously had surgery. Can it withstand the demands of the NFL? It may hurt Wilson’s current ability to adjust his throwing angle to maximise his accuracy.

At times, he can fixate on his target. This means that he forces the ball into poor situations, increasing the likelihood of being intercepted. At the college level, his impressive sense of timing mitigates these mistakes. The step up from BYU’s schedule to NFL defences will put a microscope on this weakness in his game.

A victim of scheduling 

Of course, another criticism commonly thrown at all smaller school recruits is quality of opposition. The Cougars had just one loss in the regular season (to Coastal Carolina). This is an issue that will never be satisfied. It must be factored into the evaluation process, but not to the detriment of what we see from Wilson on tape. He has led a spread offence that frequently relies on RPO and play action reps. As the NFL moves towards this style of offence, the value of Wilson’s experiences in the college game increases.

Micah Parsons has held the mantle as the top line-backer in the 2021 class for over a year now. Despite opting out, that title does not appear to have faltered in 2020. He didn’t need to play in the disrupted 2020 season after performing at an elite level for two years at Penn State. The team looked much weaker defensively without him this season.

Parsons operates on the outside and inside. He was recruited to Penn State as a pass rusher (and a highly rated one at that) and has continued to develop his skill set whilst showing immense potential still to be unleashed.

He possesses incredible athleticism and speed to go alongside his size, something which makes him a menace on both fronts whether he is rushing the passer, stopping the run or working in the open field. One thing that really stands out on tape is his intelligence and ability to read the run, regularly stuffing the gap. Considering he was recruited as a pass rusher it should come as no surprise that Parsons is an incredible blitzer once again using his combination of vision, speed & size to get to the quarterback. I have not tended to focus on the stats in these write ups so far, but it is hard to ignore the numbers here. In 2018, he recorded the most tackles for Penn State with 82 combined. He did this not only as a true freshman, starting only one game. 2019 was even better, with 109 combined tackles and 5 sacks. This guy is an edge playing at middle line-backer, and it isn’t fair.

Parsons is not the perfect package of course. Few prospects rarely are. However, you have to look hard for his flaws. One area it would be in coverage, where at times he can jump the gun too early. At other times, he can focus too much on the quarterback and be drawn into false coverage. Not only are these instances few and far between, they are easily coachable at NFL level.

Parsons should easily be a top 10 selection. He is certainly knocking on the door of the top 5 picks in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Surtain has been a starting corner for the Crimson Tide since his freshman year. He pins receivers to the touchline and tracks their every move. He has impressive reactive agility, responding rapidly to the receiver’s step. Surtain has been the most effective deep ball defensive back in college football this year, and suffocates his opponent. The best wide receivers the SEC has to offer have found themselves neutralised. Against Georgia, George Pickens was limited to just 5 receptions for 53 yards, forcing Stetson Bennett to rely on running back James Cook.

Often, it seems as though Surtain hasn’t produced on field by simply looking at the stat line. The truth is often that QBs avoid throwing the ball his way. When they do, Surtain’s impressive work in press coverage has meant that younger players on the roster like Malachi Moore have benefitted from the targets that Surtain’s receiver isn’t getting. Bigger college receivers have struggled against Surtain’s size.

Critics point to his lack of speed, and many scouts will carefully watch his performance at the Combine. Don’t get me wrong - Patrick Surtain isn’t slow. Speed is simply one of his attributes that isn’t elite. If he comes up against the smaller, more slippery wideouts the NFL has to offer, he may struggle to keep the pace.

There are no sure things in the NFL Draft. A top ten draft pick is a high price to pay for any player, and comes with a hefty weight of expectation. Patrick Surtain is worth that price tag.

Darrisaw has been highly touted since entering the college game, but in the 2020 season has taken his game to the next level. He currently continues to fly up draft boards.

One key strength of his game is his reach. This, along with his mobility and strength, allows him to be a force in pass protection. His football IQ enables him to get into the right positions.

An area to improve on is his hands when run blocking. He can be overpowered and pushed into his running back. These examples are few and far between, but it will need to be addressed at the next level.

Darrisaw is already a top tier pass protector with more potential to unlock. He should be an instant starter in the NFL.

Caleb Farley has all the tools to shine in the NFL. His 2019 tape suggested elite traits in his game. He is a physical defender that is incredibly physical at the catch point. Not to mention, he is incredibly quick. He uses his hands to disrupt his receiver without committing interference penalties. You wouldn’t think that someone so accomplished at the position played quarterback in high school. Instead, he has an instinct for how opposing QBs think.

Farley can line up in the box, or on the outside. Two things that strikes you when you watch his tape are his length and his tackling ability. In contested catches, he has a knack for disrupting his opponent’s hands. On shorter throws, he hits his man with power.

Farley was the first Power 5 player to officially opt out of the 2020 season. At the time, it was a brave step. NFL franchises should be impressed by his courage to be the first major talent to put his family ahead of the opportunity to impress scouts in 2020.

He did suffer from back spasms throughout the 2019 season, a worrying injury that affected his entire season. It didn’t stop him putting on some excellent tape in his sophomore year. There are no suggestions that he has carried this injury into his preparation for the NFL Draft.

Farley and Surtain can be considered 1A and 1B in the 2021 NFL Draft class. Both should be top 10 picks in April.

Jaylen Waddle is somewhat of an enigma heading into the 2021 NFL Draft. He is as explosive of a playmaker as there is. He is lightning fast, and has home run potential every time he touches the ball, whether that be in the receiving or return game.

However, at Alabama, he was restricted in the role he fulfilled. He played primarily out of the slot, protected from press coverage and was exposed to a limited route tree, focusing on underneath crossing routes.

In the NFL, he could be an explosive slot receiver utilised on crossing routes who has the elite speed to wreak havoc both downfield and in the screen game whilst also contributing on special teams. But that is not what teams traditionally want when drafting a receiver in the first round. The NFL will have to project how they see Waddle coping with press coverage and playing outside. This is without mentioning the broken ankle Waddle suffered in October that could affect his pre-draft preparation progress.

Paye had 2 sacks in four games this season. In a disappointing season for Michigan that was disrupted by cancellations, Paye has stood out as a rare bright spot. He is explosive off the line, and uses his natural power to bully offensive linemen. His best moments come when he is facing the run. He has benefitted from playing across from Aidan Hutchinson, with college offences struggling to contain the pair. While Hutchinson will return to the Wolverines in 2021, Paye has declared.

Paye is rocketing up draft boards. Is it a result of Rousseau’s fall? Or have people seen his ferocity jump out on tape? Either way, it now seems entirely possible that Paye could be the first pass rusher off the board in the 2021 NFL Draft.

At just 6’ 4”, he doesn't have the length that premier edge rushers possess. Paye can stuff the run, but hasn’t yet shown that he can bend past the tackle. As a fantasy football GM, his value to your team is limited.

Every year we see a selection of players jump up draft boards and come out of nowhere. Notre Dame’s Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (JOK) is one of those players in the 2021 NFL Draft. This is not a flash in the pan one season ascension however. He performed excellently in 2019. The exposure of the ACC and the Fighting Irish’s road to the playoffs in 2020 only added to the hype and expectation.

JOK is viewed as a smaller line-backer in this day and age, but what he lacks in that size he makes up for in athleticism. He combines his speed and vision to regularly make plays for the ball over the middle. His big play potential has been more apparent than ever in 2020. JOK can get from one side of the field to the other with frightening speed and regularly brings plays to a halt.

Where he can and has faulted in his career to date is first in his tackles. Whilst he makes the big plays and hits, he can look for this too often at times and go for the ball instead of wrapping up in the tackle. He can also at times be too twitchy for his own good and take a missed step on a play. This can lead to missed coverage or poor positioning. This was more the case in 2019, and improvements were made in 2020.

JOK may be listed as a line-backer but his size and speed power will allow NFL teams to mould him in their vision. That could be at middle line-backer, safety or anywhere on the defence. He looks set to be an incredibly exciting and versatile player to look out for in the 2021 NFL Draft.

If anyone has listened to the 5 Yard College podcast since its inception in the summer, you will know that I love Trey Lance. Lance has redefined the “dual threat” quarterback - he doesn’t have the slippery running ability of a guy like Lamar Jackson. Instead, Lance powers through the tackles using his impressive size and power. He rarely stops at the first tackle, and fights for extra yards on the ground like a power back would. He had 1,100 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in his first (and only) season as a starter. The Bison offence was built around him, and FCS schools simply could not compete.

Here is one key issue that Lance will have after the 2021 NFL Draft. If a franchise has fallen in love with his talent, they will build a roster around him. We have seen how much this benefitted Lamar Jackson and The Ravens. If an NFL team wants to take him, they better make sure they love him. Otherwise, Lance will get labelled with the “gadget player” tag and struggle to establish himself in the pros.

Can't be comp-ed 

Let me get one thing straight - Jackson is not Lance’s player comparison. Player comps are usually oversimplified and misleading. Putting Lance up against him would be unfair and would teach us little. As a one year starter, there is still lots to learn about his attributes. As his sample size is so small, he may slide down the draft board in April.

One thing we don’t always expect from a dual threat QB is arm strength. Lance has the strongest arm of this class. He is able to make deep throws, and usually creates the space for these on play action reps. He had a limited play book at NDSU, with lots of 2 Tight End sets and play action calls. Wherever he lands, it will take time to adjust to an NFL style offence.

Lance has been neglected this year after deciding to opt-out of the 2020 season. Zach Wilson’s form at BYU seems to have relegated him to QB4. Again, question marks over the quality of FCS defences has affected his draft stock. What you cannot deny is that this guy can move the ball downfield with both his arm and his feet.

Trey Lance is a low floor-high ceiling guy. It’s going to be a sizable risk for an NFL franchise to consider him as their quarterback of the future. It will be an even bigger one to build a roster around him. For that reason, Lance has the lowest floor of the first round 2021 NFL Draft QB prospects. If the right franchise invests in his talent and style, he could take the league by storm.

Slater is a powerhouse in the run game at the tackle position. He uses his strength, agility and aggressiveness to demolish defenders in the run game. His first step is explosive and he has shown great feet in pass protection.

Slater is a very aggressive player, sometimes too aggressive. This may get him caught out at the NFL level. He also lacks the length you expect to see from a tackle, but his game more than makes up for this. His size and stiff hips can mean he is out leveraged at times, but this can be worked on by NFL coaches. We have seen smaller lineman succeed at the tackle position in the past, too.

It will be interesting to see how NFL teams use him wherever he lands. He has played at both right & left tackle for Northwestern. I see him having success at tackle but he can easily move into guard and be just as (if not more) dominant then we have seen at college level.

Ojulari is another smaller edge rusher, but you wouldn’t know it from watching his performances this year. His hit on Alabama QB Mac Jones on the first play of the game propelled his name onto the national stage. Bulldogs fans have known for some time of his talent. Nick Saban quickly learned of Ojulari’s threat, and instructed his O linemen to support Left Tackle Alex Leatherwood in double teams. He also shone in Georgia’s Bowl Game victory over Cincinnati. He ended the game with an incredible 3 sacks, one of which was a game-ending safety.

As a redshirt sophomore, it was first thought that he would return to Athens in 2021. However, he has declared for the NFL Draft, and may well sneak into the conversation for a Day One draft pick. The sophomore has immaculate bend, and has been a living nightmare for SEC offensive linemen to contain.

Ojulari doesn’t yet show the same capability of stunting the run game as he does disrupting the passer. Another drawback is his inconsistency when countering his opponent’s blocks. But when he powers past his blocker? What a sight to see.

Ojulari could be a late round rookie draft pick. Stash him in your taxi squad and wait for his production to rise.

Confession time: I love Jaycee Horn’s college tape. He is a physical corner that makes his opponent fight for every blade of grass. Wide receivers have to work hard to get anything out of him.

Jaycee Horn shone on a bad Gamecocks team in 2020. As his size might suggest, he has a physical playing style that disrupts receivers. There’s no such thing as an easy week in the SEC for a corner, and Horn’s aggressive style has served him well against tough opponents.

He was used sparingly at the line of scrimmage in 2019, managing one sack. This year, he has predominantly been tasked with X receivers. Closing down the deep ball threat is paramount for an NFL Defensive Coordinator. As a result, expect Horn to be taken in the first 16 picks of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Both of Horn’s interceptions this year came against Auburn’s Bo Nix. They remain the only picks of his college football career. The first was an overthrow that was destined for the sidelines before Horn hauled it in. The second was a throw right into his midriff. Put simply, he didn’t have to work hard for them. A lack of interceptions may worry some talent evaluators as they differentiate between a deep second tier of cornerbacks. However, the ease with which he shut down Seth Williams in the game against The Tigers showcased his potential as a shutdown corner.

It is fair to say that Zaven Collins can do just about everything. He possesses the size, speed, power and football IQ that enabled him to be a standout performers in the whole of college football. Many experts had Collins down as the most dynamic defender of the 2020 season. He has elevated an already high stock, pushing him rightly into the first round conversation.

Collins has shown the ability to not only rush the quarterback and stop the run, but also drop into coverage incredibly well. He has all the things you want from an ILB and more. He is the definition of a hybrid line-backer at the next level with the skillset to perform as a middle line-backer and the physicals to produce at the edge.

You will not know where he will line up from one play to the next, which makes him a devastating weapon for any NFL defence. He still has plenty of room to improve on his already impressive ability.

One area for improvement for Collins is his need to make every play. He can over extend himself on plays, leaving gaps open for the opposition. He can at times become caught up against a lineman as his hand placements need work.

Collins is a promising and raw talent. A well coached NFL team will be excited by his versatility and physicals.

Rousseau is undisputedly the most physically gifted edge rusher in this draft class. 15.5 sacks at such an early stage in his college career meant that expectations were high. Opting out of the 2020 season hasn’t hurt his draft stock as first feared. No positional competitor has risen to his 2019 level of production. His athleticism terrorised ACC offensive lineman in his sophomore year. The problem some franchises will have is that it was exactly that: a year. With just one season of production, teams may pass on him over his positional rivals.

Though his technique requires polish, defensive coordinators will be salivating at the prospect of developing Rousseau’s talent. He has devastating speed and elite level athleticism for a defensive end.

Miami used Rousseau on both the edge of the defensive front, as well as the interior. Good news for NFL fans, not-so-good news for fantasy GMs. The potential for versatility along the line increases his draft value, but could equally stunt his fantasy production. IDP set-ups usually reward sacks above all else. If he is used as an interior rusher, his value will drop.

Consider Alijah Vera-Tucker as the newcomer to this group. Before this season, his peers listed above were household names. By opting back into the 2020 season (he initially opted out when it looked like the Pac-12 wouldn’t play), he gave his draft stock a huge boost.

One factor that has boosted Vera-Tucker’s draft stock (alongside some impressive 2020 tape) is his versatility. He has played at both tackle and guard for The Trojans, which will endear him to draft scouts. It might mask concerns about his play style. Vera-Tucker doesn’t have that nastiness one might hope from an interior lineman.

Despite the ability to slot him at tackle, Vera-Tucker’s size is more suited to the guard position. At 6? 4?, he may be considered just too small to play on the outside.

Rashod Bateman may be my favourite receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft class. He is not the elite level prospect of Chase, but he does possess a fascinating skill set that could allow him to be a true X receiver in the pros.

Bateman is above average at almost everything with a good release and ability to win late in the route. He uses his body well to create separation and has shown an ability to settle into soft spots of zones. Whilst Bateman is not a true deep flyer, he does stretch down the field due to his size and catch radius as highlighted by his 20.3 yards per reception his sophomore year.

Bateman does lack a bit of explosiveness and is a build-up speed runner than a pure fast-twitch burner. He is somewhat of a boom bust prospect, as he may struggle to carve out a role if he is not entrenched as a starting outside receiver.

Bateman did opt out of his Junior year after a COVID-19 outbreak derailed the Golden Gophers season. This should have allowed him some more time to prep for the Combine. If Bateman can clock a 40 time in the low 4.4’s he will likely solidify himself as a 1st Round pick in April.

Najee Harris is a devastating athlete. Though he doesn’t have the slipperiness that leaner backs can boast, he does have the vision to exploit gaps in opposing defences. Once he hits top speed, he is like a freight train. The success of Crimson Tide alumnus Derrick Henry in the NFL will have a positive impact on Harris’ draft stock, too. Like Henry, he relishes contact and defenders seem to bounce right off him.

Harris doesn’t offer as much as his fellow class men in the passing game (he has just 27 receptions in 2020). As a power back, nobody does it better. In this year’s NFL Draft Harris and Clemson’s Travis Etienne can be considered RBs 1A and 1B. In the 2021 NFL Draft in April, the first running back taken off the board could come down to scheme fit and personal taste.

As you might expect, it takes slightly longer for Harris to hit top speed. Whereas his power is devastating, his speed is simply impressive. If he breaks through the line of defence, you can expect line-backers to recover the gap. Just don’t expect them to bring him down easily. It is a minor criticism of an athlete that appears destined to succeed in the NFL.

Wyatt Davis is clearly the #1 IOL of this class. If anyone is going to be selected on Day One of the 2021 NFL Draft, it’s him. Davis is dominant and explosive off the line of scrimmage, and is rarely shaken off-balance. He is most comfortable when making first contact with his defender.

As a run blocker, he works well on the inside to create lanes for running backs to exploit. Davis can manipulate space for plays designed to punch the gut of the opponent.

He could immediately contribute in his rookie year, particularly in a run-heavy offence. Ohio State has been a reliable source of O line talent in recent years. Davis is up there with the best of them.

In a normal year, Freiermuth would be talked about as the leading TE prospect. He has everything you could want from a dual-threat TE. He is a strong and willing blocker, both inline and on pulls/traps.

Freiermuth is a flexible piece in the passing game: able to line up outside and win one on one vs line-backers and corners, or release inline in more traditional sets. He is an impressive, fluid athlete but just lacks the truly elite athleticism. In terms of route running, he is good but not explosive out of his cuts, and tends to win based on the scheme, or utilising his size. He does possess strong subtleties to his route running when releasing, including an excellent block and release that will be a strong asset at the next level.

He hasn’t (and won’t) receive the hype of other TE prospects in this class but Freiermuth is a pro-ready player who will contribute at the next level immediately.

Barmore had another great season with Alabama in the disrupted 2020 season and continued to add to his tape leading into the 2021 NFL Draft. He is the sort of defensive tackle that leads the line in the middle, but is not expected to put in big numbers in terms of sacks. What he does offer is substantial physical presence and already seems to be at his ideal size and strength for the next level.

He possesses an impressive motor for his size, and can play all game long disrupting the line. He makes holes for his defensive teammates and dominates in 1v1 situations. His presence on the line can force multiple lineman to focus on him. Christian Barmore’s stats will not often show up on many stat sheets, but he regularly provides pressure and QB hits that can sometimes go unnoticed. He also has impressive hands and can get under or over the offensive lineman, making it all the more difficult to move him.

One concern that some had for Barmore was his limited involvement. He was not a full timer in 2019, but in 2020 he grasped an increased role with both hands and didn’t look back.

An area of improvement is when he is double teamed: he can get too high and be out-leveraged. He has also been guilty of going for the big plays instead of sticking to his assignments, but this will be quickly ironed out by any defensive line coach that he works under in the NFL.

Though Joseph Ossai has operated at the edge position for The Longhorns, his lack of size limits his potential at the position in the NFL. However, his speed and fierce tackling ability could signal a transition to line-backer at the next level. Though very much a raw prospect, his attributes are glaringly obvious. His speed and powerful tackling jump off the tape. Three of his four sacks came in the game against Oklahoma State. NFL Draft scouts may have been seeking a greater level of consistency from his tape. At this moment, he is a high risk-high reward pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

His pass rush technique lacks refinement, with Ossai usually seeking the shortest route to the ball carrier. As a result, bigger offensive linemen will use their size advantage to frustrate him in the NFL. However, if he transitioned to the second wave of attack, he has the potential to flourish. Right now, he is overly reliant on his athleticism. If he is to improve his on-field vision and rush technique, Ossai could be a diamond in the rough.

Jaelan Phillips transferred to Miami for the 2020 season, and filled in admirably for opt-out Gregory Rousseau. Though his UCLA tape showed some promise, Miami is where his draft stock has risen considerably. An injury free year provided the former 5 star recruit with the perfect platform to perform to his potential. Unsurprisingly, he ended the 2020 season with 8 sacks and 1 INT (v. Florida State).

Phillips is a smaller end (weighing just 258 lbs) with good athleticism. That doesn’t mean he is limited to a slot at outside linebacker. If he can add size in his rookie year, there’s no reason to say he can’t line up at DE on a 4-3 defence. He is adept at altering his approach in reaction to run plays/RPOs (v. Clemson). He and Quincy Roche proved a troublesome front for opponents in the absence of Rousseau. Although Roche got most of the early attention, Jaelan Phillips’ performances are rightly getting the recognition they deserve. At times, he can overcommit (v. Florida State) and find himself outwitted by agile runners.

Phillips is rising up draft boards as a result of his 2020 tape. With just one year of consistent production, he may well fall to Day Two of the 2021 NFL Draft. His versatility and athletic ability is a good reason for NFL GMs to believe that they are getting a steal in the Second Round.

Kadarius Toney has seen a rise up the draft board in recent months following his first year as a starter in the Gators offence. Toney is a prototypical slot receiver who has speed and agility with or without the ball. One area of improvement is that he needs to sharpen his route running. Although his primary action has been out of the slot, he has the size and speed to produce in all WR positions, with big time big play potential at any moment. Toney has a wide range of outcomes in terms of where he is drafted. Depending on team needs he can be seen anywhere from late round 1 to a late 2nd rounder.

I will be the first to admit, I am high on Radunz in the 2021 NFL Draft. I have not hid my feelings towards him in many a pod and mock draft. He is a big guy, but has more room to add bulk when looking at this frame. He will want to do this when he gets to the NFL.

Radunz played at left tackle for North Dakota and has the athleticism, balance and body control to become a starting tackle at the NFL level. His best area is in the run game, and is a vicious run blocker, looking for targets and smashing them out of the way. He shows good body control and you rarely see him on the ground. Radunz also shows real toughness against rushers who get under his pads, still allowing him to come out on top.

Radunz's stock took a hit with the postponement of North Dakota’s season, along with the criticism of opposition he has faced compared to other top tackle prospects. He has dominated anyone that has been put in front of him. He now has his senior Bowl invite, which gives him the chance to show what he can offer. This time, he will be up against top opposition. It could be key to his rise up the draft board once again.

Nick Bolton is a promising middle line-backer. He has good vision and impressive acceleration. He is patient, and rarely overcommits. He is strong in pass coverage (2 INTs v. West Virginia, 2019). He is also adept at blitzing, and makes his way through traffic to get to the quarterback (v. Georgia 2019). Bolton has the combination of size and speed to immediately contribute in the NFL.

He sprints to aid his teammates in the tackle, and often performs the role of the finisher. In doing so, he benefits from forcing fumbles (v. Alabama 2020). Although his speed is good, it is not great. As a result, he can arrive at the tackle after the ball carrier has already made a significant gain. When he does get to the opponent though, he is a hard hitter. When you’ve been hit by Nick Bolton, you know about it.

You are forgiven for underestimating Mac Jones in 2020. He looked unspectacular replacing Tua Tagovailoa in 2019. This year, he has led the Crimson Tide offence with ease and confidence. Many believe this to be the most complete ‘Bama offence of the Saban era, and Jones is a key element of that. He has completed an impressive 76.4% of passes this year on an offence that has swept aside SEC opposition. However, the overall number masks a discrepancy between short and deep passes. When he looks downfield, his accuracy drops notably.

He has impressive accuracy on short and middle throws, at times fitting the ball in the tightest of windows. His receivers often take the attention away from his ball placement with their ability to maximise yardage once the catch has been completed. As an accurate pocket passer, he has led the college game. It is this ability that has made him one of the favourites for the 2020 Heisman Trophy.

Jones is a tidy passer that makes smart decisions. He is secure with the ball, and this is shown by his lack of interceptions in 2020 (just 3 in 10 games). Often, he can be overly cautious with dump off throws. These have been masked by the exceptional play of his receivers, who gain significant yards after the catch. If he lands on a strong offence after the 2021 NFL Draft, he could contribute right away. If he finds himself on a team with various offensive needs, expect him to struggle.

An NFL QB? 

Another issue is mobility. In today’s NFL, most quarterbacks rely on their ability to extend the play with their feet, or keep defences guessing with the threat of a QB run. An NFL team isn’t going to get that from Jones. He has 27 total running yards in his entire college career.

Jones has had an incredible year with the Tide. But if an NFL franchise takes him with a 1st Round Pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, they’re overpaying.

Samuel Cosmi is the rawest talent from the list of guys being discussed here, but don't let that take away from just how good he already is.

Cosmi's best area is in pass protection, where his athleticism shows out. He is quick on the snap and tracks rushers well. He gets it done in the run game by using his speed to put momentum into his blocks against the bigger defenders.

One criticism of Cosmi is his size. He does not look 300 lb. He will need to put on additional size in the NFL to compete against edge rushers with an effective bull rush technique. At times in the college game, these rushers exposed Cosmi’s flaws.

Cosmi is a first round talent with undoubted potential and upside. He should be viewed as a project player and allowed time to develop. If he realises his potential, Samuel Cosmi will be a dominant lineman for years to come.

Eric Stokes was not expected to be Georgia’s most accomplished cornerback this year. However, he has surpassed teammate Tyson Campbell in 2020 with his physical style and high level route recognition. His length and size will pass muster for talent evaluators.

Stokes is particularly good in coverage, encouraging QBs to look past his opponent. Although far from the finished article, there’s enough raw talent for an NFL franchise to take the plunge at the back end of Day One.

One issue is Stokes’ play style. He hits his receiver hard, and needs to reign in his aggression. If he doesn’t, he could be a flag magnet in the NFL. With time and coaching, that can be reined in.

Creed Humphrey is the only centre that makes our list of top interior linemen. One thing that is clear on tape is his vision. He is a vocal member of the offence, and is able to recognise defensive giveaways before the snap.

An experienced leader of the Sooners offence, you can expect a “high character” talent to attract NFL franchises. A former wrestler, he has effective hands when fighting off his opponent. Humphrey also relies on his impressive anchor to keep rushers at bay.

We see few left handed quarterbacks in the NFL. A similarly small proportion of centres are left handed, too. Humphrey is one of those rare examples of a lefty centre. It is a minor issue to observe, and shouldn’t be a problem for his new quarterback to get used to. Training camp should iron out any teething problems.

Moehrig has made a name for himself as a ball hawk in the secondary for TCU. He has played the majority of his football at free safety. Moehrig regularly made plays for the ball, coming away with 7 interceptions in his TCU career. He commands the middle of the field, looking for a pass to break up.

Moehrig has made a habit of always being around the ball. He looks to be able to make a play at any time and from any position. This kid balls out in the backfield and that is not something that can be taught.

Where Moehrig can improve is in his run defence. He is aggressive in the tackle. Sometimes, he is too aggressive and misses plays by going for the big stick hit. Timing and patience will be key for Moehrig at the next level when he comes up against top calibre NFL receivers and quarterbacks. He does have the quickness and speed to recover mistakes at the college level, but will it be enough after the step up?

Moehrig has the potential to be a late first rounder in the 2021 NFL Draft. We will likely be hearing Moehrig’s name early on Day Two.

Oweh has the potential to make a splash in the NFL. He is lean for a pass rusher, and therefore will likely translate as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defence. He has impressive length, and can bend around his opponent in order to get to the quarterback. He is effective when he manipulates gaps on the inside of the opposing offensive line. When he gets through, he has the speed to pressure and panic opposition QBs into mistakes (v. Nebraska, 2020).

Due to his smaller frame, he struggles to dominate against more effective offensive lines (v. Ohio State, 2020). He doesn’t have the power to bull rush opposing linemen. Instead, he relies on trickery and spin moves to outwit his opponent. In a four man front for the Nittany Lions, he struggled to dominate. He will need to add size in order to succeed in the NFL. He is very much a developmental prospect at the next level.

Jay Tufele offers something many DTs cannot: athleticism. The best aspect of his game is his run stuffing ability. His get off can leave offensive linemen flat-footed. Tufele decided to opt out in August, having felt he has already proved enough allowing the promising DT to focus on the upcoming combine and 2021 NFL Draft.

Tufele’s engine is incredible and is arguably a level above Barmore. This guy never stops. Despite being over 300lbs, he moves like an edge, but with the size to dominate at the DT position.

Opposing offensive lines have regularly required a double team to manage his explosive and disruptive play style. If he can continue to bring this in the NFL, he will be a wrecking ball that can play on all 3 downs.

One area of improvement I have seen is his vision for the ball. At times, he loses track and commits to the wrong blocker, allowing him to be passed. He can also come out of his stance too high, which will enable lineman to get under his pads and push him back. This was few and far between but at the next level will need to be worked on against the more wise and experienced interiors.

We have to start with the all-time ACC rushing yards and touchdowns record holder, Travis Etienne. If you’re in a PPR league, then Etienne pips his rival Najee Harris to #1 overall player on your fantasy draft board. He has been utilised well in the passing game by Dabo Swinney, predominantly on swing, screen wheel and slant routes. He often lines up at the line of scrimmage alongside The Tigers’ wide receivers.

Etienne can comfortably find the edge with his patient running style. Don’t let that fool you - when he hits the gas, you know it. He will likely run a 4.35/4.40 at the Combine. With that speed, Etienne has the ability to take the ball to the house at any opportunity. He is equally happy heading for the tackler. This is a running back that can run around and through the tackler.

Put simply, he is an explosive runner that plays through the contact. His quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, compared him to Alvin Kamara. Head Coach Dabo Swinney preferred Waltor Peyton. High praise from two people that know him best.

At his size, don’t expect much in terms of pass protection. Then there’s the issues with fumbling. He has four fumbles in 2020, two of them lost to the opposition. Now, for someone who averages 18 touches a game, it doesn’t seem a significant issue.

Alex Leatherwood’s main plus point is his versatility. He has played at both tackle and guard positions for Nick Saban’s offence. He uses his aggression in both run blocking and pass protection. Leatherwood is a versatile and controlled athlete with an impressive technique. Like most linemen, he can be dumbfounded by double moves. This can be because he becomes anchored in his stance, and struggles to reset.

Though good in most areas, it is hard to decipher what he is best at. As a prospect, he is solid, but not elite. That may seem harsh, but it is not meant as a criticism. A team looking to strengthen across the offensive line would be wise to select him at this stage. Leatherwood may work out as a tackle, but could equally be asked to shift inside to guard. A franchise looking to solve a particular positional issue, especially tackle, are taking a risk. As a result, he could slide into Day Two.

Jones’ draft stock has fluctuated this season. He is a divisive prospect - he has the perfect blend of size and speed, but is still considered by some to be a Day Two pick. He saved his best tape of 2020 for the matchup with Boston College. The Eagles are famed for their history of producing top offensive line talent in the NFL. Jones had no problem powering past them on his way to the QB. He has an impressive spin move when his initial burst of speed is repelled.

Hand on heart, I’m higher on Jones than most will be. Yes, polish is needed to improve his technique. However his raw athleticism is immense. It may be some time before we see Jones contribute consistently on an NFL defensive line, but when he does, he can shine.

From a fantasy perspective, Jones is a valuable pickup due to his dominant pass rush potential. As with all NFL rookies, landing spot is key. You may not see an immediate reward, but Jones’ long term outlook is positive.

Liam Eichenberg was the leading member of the Notre Dame offensive line. He may not warrant a First Round draft pick in 2021, but he will be a starting tackle from his rookie year. He will likely join the long list of Fighting Irish alumni that has flourished in the NFL. In an unpredictable year for drafting talent, it is hard to pinpoint exactly where Eichenberg will come off the board.

He isn’t the most athletic of talents, but has the technique and football IQ to make up for it. Ian Book was a QB that liked to scramble and extend plays with his feet. He was able to rely on elite college level protection in order to do so. The modern day NFL where the quarterback is expected to be mobile. Eichenberg will be “pro-ready” and able to step in as a starter after training camp.

Rondale Moore exploded onto the scene in a big way during his true freshman year, becoming the first-ever true freshman consensus all American in Big Ten history.

The term gadget player is thrown around too often when discussing undersized receivers, but it could not be more apt regarding Moore. He is a natural playmaker with the ball in his hands and will be a fantastic weapon in the hands of a forward-thinking play-caller that can use him inventively.

To call Moore a pure gadget player is harsh, because he is an accomplished receiver to boot with some solid route running ability and strong tracking skills on the deep ball, Moore can be used in traditional ways. However, he faces the same question marks as several of the other receivers in this class. Can he be utilised outside of the slot? And can he beat press coverage?

Outside of the top two listed above, Williams is the “best of the rest”. This guy does not stop at the point of contact. His balance through the tackle is impressive, and he often churns out extra yards after the initial contact. He is often used in goal line sets both through the A/B gaps and on the outside.

Like Harris, he doesn’t have the slippery quality that leaner backs enjoy. At 220 lbs, he relies more on his power against the tackler over his ability to make his opponent miss. That aside, he has a variety of tools in his arsenal to beat defenders. In his incredible performance against Miami, he cut past the first man, floored the second with his shoulder charge, and spun past a third.

Williams isn’t adept and making space, but when he finds it, he exploits it. He is capable of those chunk plays that can take the pressure off a struggling passing game. He also offers support to his quarterback in pass protection.

Despite sharing the field with Jefferson, Chase and Edwards-Helaire, Marshall still managed to produce in his sophomore season. He then came into his Junior season as the true number 1 receiver and still produced, despite drawing increased attention from opposing defences.

Marshall is a prototypical receiver possessing a fantastic combination of size, speed and ball skills. At times his route running ability leaves a bit to be desired. He is fantastic off the line of scrimmage, but lacks the flexibility and agility to gain separation immediately out of his cuts. This is countered with his catch radius and contested catch ability.

Marshall is the kind of player that coaches will fall in love with. They will project him as the traditional alpha receiver that you can build a passing game around.

Myers could be a starting centre straight out of the gates in 2021. Myers' bigger frame allows him to excel in the trenches, rather than getting to the next level and attacking linebackers. He predominantly worked in the shotgun but has shown he can work with a quarterback under centre when required. Myers is lacking certain areas in the athletic department, which may limit him to certain scheme fits. Hemakes up for it with his power. Look for his name to be called Rounds 2-3.

Tyson Campbell is the overlooked corner out of Georgia after his fellow classmate Eric Stokes also declared. Campbell has a great athletic profile that has all the makings of a NFL corner, particularly in zone coverage. He has previous injury concerns but addressed many of these after a full 2020 season with the Bulldogs. He has been caught out too many times on big plays, due to his slower reaction in certain areas. Campbell is likely the next man up after the big name corners are off the board, and should hear his name late in the 2nd Round.

Mayfield has shown all of the traits needed by a tackle at the NFL level. He has the size, strength and mobility to perform well in both the run and pass game. He also looks like he can get even bigger, despite already tipping the scales at 320lbs.

In the run game, Mayfield uses his size and strength, moving players and creating gaps for his running back. In the pass game, his low stance and power allows him to easily handle power rushers.

Where Mayfield has struggled at times is against quicker edge rushers. He seems lost, or engages too quickly and is often put off balance. Development of his footwork at the next level will improve this and help handle those rushers.

Jalen Mayfield is another guy with first round potential. He could well be taken early on Day Two of the 2021 NFL Draft. . A potential draft steal, he could be afforded time with the right program to sit and develop his skills further.

Few people expected Quincy Roche to have so much success in 2020. He was the leader of the Temple Owls defence before transferring to the Miami Hurricanes for his final year of college football. He had big shoes to fill after Gregory Rousseau decided to opt-out.

He enters the 2021 NFL Draft with 30.5 sacks in college football, peaking with 13 in 2019 for Temple. At 6’ 4” and 235 lbs, it is unlikely that we will see him as a hands in the dirt defensive end. He also enters the Draft with no fewer than 8 forced fumbles. A high level of production on two separate college football programs is a big plus for NFL GMs wanting to know how he’ll settle into their roster. It is true that his production dipped since moving from the AAC. That was to be expected, though.

Daviyon Nixon is a powerful defensive tackle with a good burst of speed. He quickly gets into the backfield and disrupts the ball carrier (v. Michigan State 2020) against the run. He has an ability to keep his eyes on the football whilst trying to beat the lineman in his way. Nixon was able to showcase his vision and reaction speed when he returned a fumble for 6 v. Michigan State this year. He has shown an ability to pressure the quarterback through the middle, and uses his hands to good effect.

This isn’t a deep DT class, which may explain why some are scratching for Nixon to go higher on draft boards. At the minute, he is a long term investment on the defensive line.

Spencer Brown had an impressive showing in the Senior Bowl. The first thing on Brown is plain to see: he is a giant at 6’9” and over 310 lbs. He uses that size to devastating effect, mauling opponents all game long. He can go till the final whistle. The big question mark of course is the level of competition he faced at the FCS level, but a strong Senior Bowl showing silenced those critics. With some work on his final technique he can certainly be a starting Right Tackle for many NFL teams.

Moses slid down many draft boards due to the rise of the others around him. For a player once locked as a top 15 draft pick, he is now on the outside. Don’t take this as a slate on his talent; whoever bags him in the 2nd round will have themselves a player on their hands.

Chazz Surratt has excelled since transitioning to the defensive side of the roster at UNC. A high school QB, he uses his knowledge of the passing game to track opposing QB throws and spy runs. He fixes his eyes to the QB from the MIKE linebacker position. Surratt is a hard-hitting tackler that opponents cannot shrug off. He has also been utilised from the SAM, WILL and edge on occasion. He is a versatile talent that will be a steal if he falls to Round 3.

Hamilcar Rashed offers a great deal of upside, with impressive athleticism and non stop motor.This particularly true off the edge. His upside is undoubtable, but he is certainly raw and will need the right coaching at the next level on his overall technique to unlock his potential. He needs to improve his speed off the snap, as he can get caught up with linemen due to his slow get off. He does not have the strength or hands currently to overcome this enough of the time.

Amon-Ra St. Brown has solid route running mechanics and regularly gets himself into space. He thrives in the contested catch area and is not scared to go up against opposing secondaries, and was a big play machine at USC. Unlike some receivers, St. Brown is not afraid to work as a blocker when called upon. It is tough to compete with him. He may not get work outside of the slot at the NFL level: when asked to play on the outside for USC, he showed a lack of deep route speed.

A fantastic athlete, Jordan projects more as a move TE at the next level. He possesses elite athleticism and can cause problems down the seam, or separated out wide. Where Jordan excels is with the ball in his hands. He has excellent instincts for space and uses this with his elite athleticism to pile up yards after the catch. In 2019 Jordan averaged 9.3 yards after the catch per reception. As a blocker Jordan is willing but really lacks technique and ability. He will likely be utilised almost exclusively as a receiver in the Pros.

Whilst being a fantastic athlete, Jordan does not use this in his route running. Instead, he relies on being schemed into open space, where his ability after the catch takes over. If Jordan is going to make the most of his abilities at the next level, he will need to refine his technique as he can’t just rely on his athleticism in the NFL. The upside for Jordan is clear, but he is going to take some work and refinement to get there.

Asante Samuel Jnr is the smallest of the corners listed here. Any concerns over his size are allayed by his experience out wide and in the slot. He has impressive athleticism, which is evident when he sticks with receivers on deep passes. He also enjoys getting after the ball carrier after the catch, and hits harder than his size would suggest.

However, it is hard to look past his lack of size. He hasn’t been used in press coverage by The Seminoles. As a result, it is hard to imagine an NFL franchise getting value for a First Round pick. With top cornerbacks in short supply but high demand, he could well sneak into the conversation for a Day One selection.

Teven Jenkins has versatility across the offensive line. He was used at RG, LT and RT. He played most snaps at Right Tackle, and improved year on year for Oklahoma State. Jenkins has impressive feet and is keen to attack linebackers at the next level. He makes himself tough to move when he sets himself. Jenkins does need to improve his upper body movement and positioning, as he can tend to get caught out and allow defenders to get under his pads. Whilst his willingness to get to the next level in the run game can be impressive, it has caught him out of position at times and can look to work on his timings to not put his teammates in trouble.

Carlos Basham Jnr is one of the more physically imposing edge rushers in this 2021 NFL Draft class. In four years with the Demon Deacons, he has shown himself to be equally capable against the run and pass. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in football smarts. Basham Jnr often outsmarts his opponents by accurately predicting blocking assignments. With his versatility and high football IQ, Basham is a low-risk selection.

Understandably for a player of his size, his most impressive snaps come as a bull rusher on the inside. Just ask Trevor Lawrence how it feels to be sacked by 275 lbs of "Boogie" Basham. Expect this highlight to be shown endlessly when you see Basham’s college tape being evaluated.

Don't expect Basham to slip through gaps in NFL offensive lines. He much prefers to smash holes through them alone. A key area of concern for draft scouts is that he can struggle to overcome linemen when they resist his move off the line. He will needs more tools in his arsenal to outsmart veteran linemen at the next level.

There's a good reason why Kyle Trask has been the Heisman Trophy favourite in 2020. A career backup turned starter in 2019, he has electrified the Florida offence. He broke a school record for total touchdowns (42), beating Danny Wuerffel’s record that had stood since 1996. This year, he has completed 70.2% of his passes, and is particularly accurate on shorter throws. One way in which he ensures this is how he uses his body to manipulate defensive backs. He often “sells” a play with his eyes, before completing a pass elsewhere. On deeper passes, concerns about his arm strength and mechanics arise.

Playing alongside Kyle Pitts and Kadarius Toney has masked concerns about his arm strength. The talent surrounding him has elevated his game. As a backup on a successful NFL team, we may see Trask’s strengths emerge. It is clear that a professional offence cannot rely on him to take their side to the next level.

He rarely uses his legs, and when he does, his lack of athleticism becomes apparent. His 50 yards rushing in 2020 is the most we have seen from him (with just 4 total rushing yards before this year). Like Mac Jones, Trask has been labelled a “college quarterback” that won’t make it at the next level. Considering the weaknesses that show on his tape, it is ebay to see why.

Adebo is long, strong and has great hips allowing him to open up and use his high football IQ to make plays at the top end of a route. Adebo has great ball playing ability which shows with his stats in the interception and pass defended column (8 & 27 in 2 seasons). His decision to opt out in 2020 has meant that other guys at cornerback have been allowed to shine. As a result, Adebo has fallen down the draft boards. He has potential to be a starting outside corner at the next level with some work. He may even move to safety due to his football IQ, size metrics and his love of making big hits against opposing players.

Jevon Holland can do it all in the back field. For Oregon, he has played at both strong and free safety. He has also dropped into the nickel position when needed. He is also a leader on the field, regularly giving orders to his colleagues in the secondary. Holland is a solid overall athlete with good speed and power.

The problem with Holland is where does he play? His versatility is both a pro and a con in the NFL. He hasn’t been dominant in any one position. He either needs to commit to one position, or be embraced as a swiss army knife on defence.

His speed can get him out of trouble, but at the next level more explosive wide receivers will take advantage of this. Holland will need to get smarter in his position and engagement against these sort of players.

Holland opted out of the 2020 season so the NFL combine is going to be a key factor in his final draft stock. If he can perform to his best abilities and also run a fast 40 time(rumoured low 4.4 speed), he should secure himself an early day 2 pick and potential ahead of Moehrig if a franchise wants someone with more versatility. As I said Holland’s main pro & con is the versatility he offers in a number of positions.

Bio to come

Little is a former 5 Star recruit who lined up predominantly at left tackle for Stanford. He possesses a big frame and exceptional length to go along with his 6’7” height. Despite his size, he has impressive athleticism which enables him to perform well in the pass game. This is his main strength. Little may be more of a developmental prospect to start, and may need to get back up to speed. He hasn’t played since September 2019 due to injury and subsequent opt out in 2020.

McGrone is a relative unknown prospect due to his late start with Michigan. He has only started 19 games in his career but once he was given the MIKE role he made it his. He has shown he has the skill set to become a difference maker in the middle. In particular, he is effective on third and passing downs. Michigan regularly utilised Blitz packages, which he excelled in. He is great athletically, meaning he can slot straight in if needed. However, he could do with some time to learn and develop his game, mainly in coverage. We have not seen much of that from him in his time at Michigan.

Cisco can feel unlucky not to be higher up 2021 NFL Draft boards after suffering a devastating lower leg injury which required surgery. He is a potential steal if he can come back from this injury.

Bio to come

Michael Carter has continuously raised his draft stock over his four years at Chapel Hill. Despite splitting carries with his team mate, Carter has put up high end numbers in 2020. He has plenty of speed and when hit has the agility to stay on his feet. He gains extra yards when most RBs would go down. He is also a solid receiver with good hands, which will up his draft stock even further. Carter would be perfect as part of a RB tandem, but could also take on more work as an RB1.

Landon Dickerson may be looked at two ways in the NFL: versatile, or a key with no lock. He has played across all five positions on the offensive line in his collegiate career before being kept on the interior in his final year at Alabama. Dickerson is strong and looks to overpower the opposition, showing good hand strength and power. He can look to be more consistent play to play. The other big concern for Dickerson is his long term health. He has a long list of injuries in his career and only played one full season in 2019. He will be coming into the draft recovering from a knee ligament injury suffered in December last year.

Bio to come

Marvin Wilson was key DT in the 2021 NFL Draft class last year, before other names started to make the rise. Wilson has still maintained a high level of play, despite Florida State not having the best year.

Wilson is a big man, and you see that from just looking at him. He possesses incredible power and speed to add to that size. His hands are like boxing gloves, which he uses to devastating effect against both offensive lineman and quarterbacks. Evidence of this is the amount of pass deflections he has had in his college career.

Wilson’s best area is certainly against the pass, but that does not mean he is a slouch in the running game. He has the power and size to maintain his gaps and disrupt the line enough to stop oncoming running backs.

An area of improvement for Wilson to work on once he hits the NFL will be his get off from the snap, despite possessing good movement for a guy his size he needs to be more explosive out the gates to really make a menace of himself at the next level against NFL calibre lineman.

Carman is one of those interesting tackles in 2021. Many in the community are projecting a move to guard, despite Carman playing at Left Tackle for the past 2 seasons. Regardless of where Carman is lined up, he is a dominant run blocker with impressive power behind him. An area for Carman to improve will be against the speed rushers on the edge. Often he is beaten to the punch and does not appear to be able to recover effectively from this. A move to guard appears the logical step. He already has the tools to be a solid power blocker at this position.

Baron Browning has been seen as the player who makes the big “wow” plays for Ohio State over the years. He plays best when allowed to have a free role, and make plays. Whether that is against the quarterback on the blitz, or breaking up a route, or hit sticking a running back, he can do it all. There are two options for Browning at the next level: a team continues to use him as a free rooming player on third downs and passing downs, or they try to add to his game to make him an all round, every down linebacker.

Nico Collins opted out of the 2020 season, but with some positional rivals heading back to school for 2021, he has been able to hold his position on the draft board. Collins is a big, physical WR and uses this to gain an advantage in contested catches. Collins also possesses a wide wing span and a mean spring in his leap. This helps him pluck high balls from the sky with relative ease. Current concerns in his game include his speed to get by defensive backs, and some route running issues. Though he suffered from poor QB play in Ann Arbor, Collins should go somewhere in the 2nd to 3rd Round.

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Sage Surratt had a breakout year in 2019 for Wake Forest (66 catches, 1001 yards and 11 touchdowns) in only 9 games. Surratt has good size and high-end catching ability. He is fierce in contested catches. Surratt needs to polish up his route running if he wants to be a genuine starter in the NFL. He has the size to play on the outside, but could equally be useful from the slot. After opting out of the 2020 season, Surratt could be a capable starter for most NFL teams.

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Cox played much of his college career at the FCS level with North Dakota before making the move to LSU. This transfer allowed him to show that he could handle himself against top opposition weekly. Nobody can deny his engine and mobility. He is regularly seen moving around the field. Cox’s best asset is in coverage. He looked exceptional in both zone and man coverage. Run defence is the main area of improvement for Cox: he can get away from his assignment, or miss runners all together when paying too much attention to the QB.

Brown is a big chap in terms of width. It shows when you look at him. Despite being 6’3”, he has the strength to back it up. He is super aggressive as a run blocker and locks in on blocks downfield. In pass protection, his size allows him to rarely be caught off balance. Brown hasn't been used outside of guard position, so will be limited to this position in the NFL. He can also at times lose out on the hand battles against defensive lineman if he does not engage first and out leveraged, this is predominantly when engaged in pass protection.

It took some time for Werner to find his calling after being moved around the linebacker roles in Ohio. What has come from this is a player who can play every down, and line up against any offensive player if needed. Werner has acceptable athleticism along with a good size and strength that is ready made for the NFL. He will predominantly be used on the outside, but with a bit of work on coverage he can easily be called upon in the middle, making him an intriguing tool.

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Shaun Wade has been used predominantly in the slot for The Buckeyes. Though he has seen some time on the outside this year, there isn’t a lot of tape to evaluate his ability against deep throws. When in the box, he has shadowed receivers on short routes, but also found ways to get to the quarterback. If he can prove to NFL franchises that he can be employed on the outside, his value will increase dramatically.

Wade was second fiddle to Jeff Okudah in 2019, but rose to infamy when he was ejected for an unfortunate targeting hit in last year’s playoff championship final. He thrives in the physical aspect of the game, and has racked up an impressive amount of tackles (53 in his college career). As a result, Wade will most likely be employed as a slot corner at the next level.

His poor performance against Clemson in the College Football Playoff semifinal hurt his draft stock. Could he go back to school in order to rescue his reputation among NFL scouting units? It might be wise to enter the 2021 NFL Draft before his stock falls any lower.

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Molden stands at 5'10" which is on the small side for a CB. He has a good football IQ, and can see things develop on the field quicker than most. Molden has great closing speed and boasts an aggressive play style. Some teams may choose to utilise him in a safety role, as well as in the slot. His lack of size will always prove to be a limitation for what Molden can do in the NFL. Elijah Molden could be drafted somewhere in the 3rd Round by a team searching for a starting slot corner.

Williams was mainly used as an X receiver for Auburn. This versatility makes him a desirable pickup for many NFL teams. Williams is a great player against zone coverage. He will have to work on his ability to gain separation in man coverage if he wants to become a every down receiver. His size and catching ability will be a blessing on 3rd down and red zone plays. Though his game does need polish, the ability is there for all to see in order to be a top receiver in the league.

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