2021 NFL Draft Top 225 Big Board

Evaluating an entire draft class worth of prospects is a lengthy process. I’ve spent the last eight months watching film on every single player ranked here. The 2021 draft is TOMORROW.

A lot of work went into this. You can probably tell.

This is my final Big Board. Without further ado, here goes my top 225.

225. Forrest Merrill | Arkansas State | NT

A former JUCO product, Merrill is a 325 pound true nose guard. He’s a pure run stopper that’s a handful in the middle. He has the size and strength to successfully take on double teams at the next level.

224. Sam Cooper | OG | Merrimack

Originally from Nigeria, Cooper has overcome a ton of adversity in his life. Cooper is a big guard that plays the game with a ton of power. He makes sense for teams that run a gap scheme.

223. Isaiah McDuffie | LB | Boston College

McDuffie is on the smaller side, but he’s plenty athletic. He has the range that teams look for in today’s linebacker. He’s received a ton of interest from several teams throughout this process.

222. Kene Nwangwu | RB | Iowa State

Nwangwu didn’t get many opportunites to touch the football at Iowa State. He was stuck behind some good players on the depth chart. He was dynamic when he got his chances. He averaged more than five yards per carry and was an electric kick returner as well.

221. Brandon Smith | WR | Iowa

Smith put up a 44-inch vertical and 135-inch broad jump at the House of Athletes combine. He’s a big receiver with a ton of athleticism for his size (6-2, 215).

220. Shemar Jean-Charles | CB | Appalachian State

Jean-Charles is a smaller corner with modest athleticism, but he has a great nose for the ball. He recorded an impressive 27 pass break-ups over his final 26 games.

219. Dax Milne | WR | BYU

If you watched any Zach Wilson tape, it was usually Dax Milne on the other end of his fantastic throws. Milne caught 70 balls for 1,188 yards and eight touchdowns in 2020. He’s a quality route runner that competes for the ball at the catch point.

218. Derrick Barnes | LB | Purdue

Barnes totaled 226 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in a four-year career at Purdue. Purdue used him both as an EDGE rusher and as an off-ball linebacker. He sees himself playing as an inside linebacker at the next level.

217. Larnel Coleman | OT | Massachusetts

Coleman has the longest arms of any offensive tackle in this draft class. Length matters at the position, and teams will be impressed with Coleman’s 36-inch arms and 84-inch wingspan. He’s a good athlete that played in a outside zone scheme at UMass.

216. Carson Green | OG | Texas A&M

Green is an experienced player with more than 30 starts under his belt. Most of his playing time has come at right tackle, but he’s likely to kick inside in the NFL. Green is tough, consistent, durable and versatile. Those types of players get drafted.

215. | Chris Evans | RB | Michigan

Evans is on the older side for a rookie (24), but has an intriguing skill set. He catches the football at a high level. As a runner, he runs the ball with great contact balance.

214. Jared Hocker | OG | Texas A&M

Similar to his running mate that I ranked at 216, Hocker is an exeprienced lineman with more than 30 starts to his name. He’s a powerful player that can play both left and right guard.

213. Deommodore Lenoir | CB | Oregon

Lenoir played running back and wide receiver growing up before making the switch to cornerback. He leaves Oregon after totaling 27 career pass break-ups and six interceptions. He played both inside and outside for the Ducks, but should be limited to reps in the slot at the next level.

212. Marlon Williams | WR | UCF

Williams is coming off the best season of his career. He caught 71 balls for 1,037 yards and 10 touchdowns in just eight games in 2020. He ran a simple route tree at UCF, but his size and ball skills should make him an intriguing pick on Day 3.

211. Darren Hall | CB | San Diego State

Hall had three interceptions in just eight games this past season. He played in an underrated defense at SDSU. Hall put up a 38.5-inch vertical and 11-foot broad jump at his Pro Day. He’s one of my favorite late round corners.

210. Wyatt Hubert | EDGE | Kansas State

Hubert was very productive at K-State. He totaled 20 sacks during his Wildcats career, which ties him for eighth all time in school history. Hubert lacks length with just a 77-inch wingspan and 30-inch arms. Hubert is an effort player that relies on smarts and motor more than anything else.

209. Rhamondre Stevenson | RB | Oklahoma

A former JUCO product, Stevenson was suspended for parts of the 2019 and 2020 season. He came back from that suspension and made the most of his carries. There’s obvious talent here that should get him drafted in the later rounds.

208. Sam Ehlinger | QB | Texas

There are some obvious arm strength and accuracy concerns here. Ehlinger was so much fun to watch at Texas. His confidence and ability to thrive when his team needed him most was exciting. I can see him making an NFL roster. He’s going to be a great teammate.

207. Alaric Jackson | OL | Iowa

Another year, another offensive line prospect from Iowa. They have an O-line factory down there. Jackson started more than 40 career games at left tackle for the Hawkeyes. He’ll probably play guard at the next level, which he showed he could do at the Senior Bowl. Versatility and durability always gets drafted.

206. Javian Hawkins | RB | Louisville

Hawkins set the single-season record at Louisville for rushing yards with 1,525 yards on the ground in 2019. Hawkins is a small back (5-8, 183) with the speed to stress out a defense on a play-by-play basis.

205. Khyiris Tonga | NT | BYU

Tonga will be 24 years old as a rookie. He’s a big boy that can plug up the middle. He’s an expert run defender that can play as a nose tackle in the NFL.

204. Larry Rountree III | RB | Missouri

Rountree was incredibly important and productive at Missouri. They asked him to handle a full workload and he did so admirably. He lacks the dynamic skills to make the same impact at the next level. He’ll make an NFL roster, though.

203. Trevon Grimes | WR | Florida

Grimes is a big receiver that comes in at 6-foot-4 and 217 pounds. He’s a long strider that plays to his size. He covers a lot of grass. He can really go up and get the football.

202. Bryan Mills | CB | North Carolina Central

I’ve been a fan of Mills for a while now. He’s a small school guy that had a good Senior Bowl. He can play on the outside. He has great length and he uses it well at the catch point.

201. Robert Jones | OG | Middle Tennessee State

Jones is a tough and physical prospect that had a solid showing at this year’s Senior Bowl. He went through the JUCO ranks before ending up at Middle Tennessee State. He played offensive tackle at MTSU, but he’ll kick inside at the next level.

200. Paris Ford | S | Pittsburgh

Ford needs to play with more consistency in the NFL. Ford has the traits and aggressive mindset to be a physical presence on the back end of a defense.

199. Pooka Williams | RB | Kansas

Williams was incredibly productive in both high school and college. He’s a smart runner that lets his blocks develop before making good decisions. He lacks the play strength to be a bellcow.

198. Trey Hill | C | Georgia

Hill is a versatile prospect that has played both centre and guard. He’s tough, physical and nasty. He’s been battle tested at one of the best programs in the nation.

197. K.J. Britt | LB | Auburn

Britt is an old school linebacker that does his best work as a two-down thumper. He makes sense for teams that still value that type of player. He doesn’t have much upside in coverage.

196. Jaret Patterson | RB | Buffalo

Patterson had an unbelievable career at The University of Buffalo. He’s a smart and patient runner that waits for his blocks to develop. He also has pretty good hands in the passing game. He’s undersized and lacks true breakaway speed.

195. Richard LeCounte III | S | Georgia

A smart and savvy player, LeCounte has the intangibles to be an asset in the locker room. He understands the game at a high level, and he’s flashed some decent range on the back end. The testing revealed what we saw on tape. Unfortunately, he’s not a great athlete.

194. JaCoby Stevens | S | LSU

Stevens was a do-it-all defender for LSU that moved all over the field. He does some of his most impressive work near the line of scrimmage, where his size and physical mindset gives him an advantage.

193. Simi Fehoko | WR | Stanford

Fehoko ran a 4.44 in the 40-yard dash at 6-foot-3 and 222 pounds. He moves incredibly well for his size. That is going to tempt some teams to take him much higher than this. He’s an older prospect and the ball skills are still a work in progress.

192. Ar’Darius Washington | S | TCU

Washington is quite undersized but you wouldn’t know it based on how he plays the game. He’s an incredibly physical tackler that loves to get down and dirty. He’s flashed some nice ball skills on occasion, too.

191. Olaijah Griffin | CB | USC

Griffin is on the smaller side at 5-foot-11 and 176 pounds. The weight and lack of functional strength is concerning. The testing results were also less than ideal. He sure does pack a punch, though. He’s incredibly scrappy and fiesty in coverage.

190. Josh Imatorbhebhe | WR | Illinois

Imatorbhebhe has a trump card and that’s freakish athleticism. His 46.5-inch vertical would have set a record at the combine. Things didn’t go his way at USC, and he transfered to a bad passing offense at Illinois. He’s the kind of player worth gambling on with a Day 3 selection.

189. Thomas Graham Jr. | CB | Oregon

Graham had himself a nice week at this year’s Senior Bowl. He’s technically advanced for a prospect. He’s smooth, efficient and smart in coverage. He has a nice knack for the ball, too. He’s smarter than he is athletic.

188. Dez Fitzpatrick | WR | Louisville

Fitzpatrick has terrific size for the wide receiver position. He knows how to use that size to get open and catch the football. He’s one of these bigger pass catchers that nobody would describe as an excellent athlete. Fitzpatrick is just about as physical as they come at his position. He also had a nice week at the Senior Bowl.

187. Tutu Atwell | WR | Louisville

I remember seeing Atwell mocked in the first round just a few months ago. I thought that was awfully premature. I’m still convinced he doesn’t get drafted inside the first 100 picks. He’s 5-foot-8 and 155 pounds. He’s a fun and sudden athlete, but he’s going to have a tough time fighting through contact in the NFL.

186. | Kylin Hill | RB | Mississippi State

Hill had a big time career for the Bulldogs as both a runner and a pass catcher. He’s smart and tough, but lacks the athletic profile to thrive as a team’s featured running back at the next level. He will make an NFL roster, though.

185. Avery Williams | CB/KR/KR | Boise State

Williams is the best special teams player in this class. He has nine career touchdowns as a kick and punt returner, he’s blocked three punts and several other kickoffs and point after attempts. He also has the ability to play sticky man coverage as a nickel corner.

184. Jimmy Morrissey | C | Pittsburgh

Morrissey is one of the most experienced offensive line propsects in this class and it shows on tape. He’s a smart and savvy center who plays the position with excellent technique.

183. Kellen Mond | QB | Texas A&M

Mond will get drafted much earlier than this, but this is my honest evaluation of him. There are some good things here. He has great arm strength, for one. He’s calm in the pocket. The accuracy and decision making is concerning at times. He’s an average athlete at best. I wouldn’t draft him before Day 3.

182. Brandin Echols | CB | Kentucky

A JUCO transfer, Echols took the scenic route to get where he is today. He’s an undersized nickel corner that battles hard in coverage. He’s a former track star that can really open his hips and run.

181. Darrick Forrest | S | Cincinnati

I like defensive prospects that played under the great Marcus Freeman. I know how well coached they’ve been. Forrest is smart and tough. He’s such a physical tackler. He’s underrated in coverage, too.

180. | Marquez Stevenson | WR | Houston

Stevenson is small but he can really fly. He’s had some injuries so the medicals will be important. He made a lot of big plays during practice at the Senior Bowl. He’s still just scratching the surface of his potential.

179. Drake Jackson | C | Kentucky

Jackson is on the smaller side, but he’s a smart center prospect with a lot of quality experience under his belt. Drafting Jackson on Day 3 makes sense for a team that prefers their offensive lineman to be athletic movers. He had a solid showing at this year’s Senior Bowl.

178. Tarron Jackson | EDGE | Coastal Carolina

Moving from one undersized Jackson to another, Tarron Jackson is a small school player that often dominated the competition in front of him. He plays with built-in leverage and gets after the QB. He’s worth a late pick as a developmental project.

177. Shi Smith | WR | South Carolina

Smith is a slot-only receiver that has a ton of wiggle. South Carolina failed to utilize his full potential. Smith flashed what he’s capable of with better QB play at this year’s Senior Bowl. He’s a fun prospect.

176. Jaylon Moore | OT | Western Michigan

Moore is a tackle prospect that’s an excellent fit for a zone blocking scheme. He moves well for his size. He has a ton of starts to his name. He’s one of my favorite Day 3 prospects, regardless of position.

175. Tyree Gillespie | S | Missouri

Gillespie is one of many physical safety prospects in this class that does his best work near the line of scrimmage. He’s tough and physical. I can see Gillespie filling a specialized role for a defense at the next level.

174. Khalil Herbert | RB | Virginia Tech

Herbert is an undersized running back that’s smooth and efficient when carrying the football. He’s coming off a massive season in which he posted more than 1,300 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He projects as a backup.

173. Brenden Jaimes | OL | Nebraska

Jaimes made a school record 40 consecutive starts at Nebraska. As a blocker, he’s very strong and stout at the point of attack. He played left and right tackle in college. The Senior Bowl asked him to play a little guard. He’s a good player that can line up almost anywhere.

172. Jonathon Cooper | EDGE | Ohio State

Cooper is one of my favorite Day 3 pass rushers. He took a big step forward in 2020. He also had an excellent Senior Bowl. His combination of speed and power intrigues me very much.

171. Austin Watkins Jr. | WR | UAB

The younger cousin of NFL veteran Sammy Watkins, Austin Watkins Jr. routinely made defensive backs in his conference look silly. He has great ball skills and vertical speed. He also has the ability to make something happen with the ball in his hands.

170. Jalen Twyman | DT | Pittsburgh

The testing numbers on Twyman were very rough. He could get drafted even later than this because of his athletic profile. He opted out of 2020 after putting up some excellent numbers in 2019 (41 tackles and 10.5 sacks). He has some quality moves in his pass rush arsenal.

169. David Moore | OG | Grambling State

Moore is a big ol’ nasty player that checks in at 6-foot-1 and 335 pounds. He weighed 350 pounds at the Senior Bowl, but has dropped about 15 pounds since then. His tape is littered with reps of complete dominance. His phone-booth style won’t fit every team, but I’d love to see Moore in a run heavy offense that values toughness and power from their O-line.

168. D.J. Daniel | CB | Georgia

Daniel has the type of size and mindset you look for in an outside cornerback. Georgia asked their corners to play a lot of press-man coverage on an island. That experience should serve Daniel well at the next level.

167. Anthony Schwartz | WR | Auburn

Schwartz has game-changing speed (4.27 in the 40). His deep ability also allows him to do some damage underneath. His ball skills are still a work in progress, but Schwartz can score every time he touches the ball.

166. Cameron Sample | EDGE | Tulane

Sample put together a nice senior season at Tulane before going to the Senior Bowl and proving that he could hang with some of the best players in the nation. Sample is a powerful pass rusher. He holds up nicely in the run game, too.

165. Davis Mills | QB | Stanford

There are rumors that Mills is going to get drafted much earlier than this. Those rumors are probably true. The need for a QB usually pushes them up the board. This is my honest evaluation of him. He keeps the offense moving and on schedule, but he doesn’t do anything that excites me.

164. Josh Palmer | WR | Tennessee

I love Josh Palmer. I’m convinced that we’d be talking about him a lot more if Tennessee’s passing offense wasn’t so horrid. He made so many big and exciting plays when given a chance to do so. He’s going to be a much more productive player at the next level.

163. Tre Brown | CB | Oklahoma

Brown is one of the most experienced prospects in this class regardless of position. He played in an astounding 51 games at Oklahoma. Brown is a quick corner that ran the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds and has been clocked going faster than 23 MPH during live action.

162. Chauncey Golston | EDGE | Iowa

Golston projects as a rotational defensive lineman at the next level that has some outside-inside versatility. He’s an excellent run stopper. He doesn’t do much to excite you as a pass rusher, but a team will find a role for him. He’s going to play for a long time in this league. He reminds me of former Falcons and Titans defensive lineman Jack Crawford.

161. Robert Rochell | CB | Central Arkansas

Rochell has great size and length. He comes in a hair over 6-feet tall and has greater-than 32-inch arms. He’s a press-man corner that holds his own on the outside. He’s a small school prospect that had a nice showing at the Senior Bowl. He could get drafted earlier than this.

160. Adrian Ealy | OT | Oklahoma

Ealy is a massive man at 6-foot-6 and 326 pounds. He leans on his size and length in pass protection. It’s tough to get your hands on him. He needs to be coached up, but the baseline traits are exciting.

159. Chuba Hubbard | RB | Oklahoma State

Hubbard has been one of the most prolific runners in all of college football over the past few years. He really thrived in OSU’s Air Raid offense. He needs to offer more in the passing game (pass pro included) if he hopes to make the same impact in the NFL that he did in college.

158. Jermar Jefferson | RB | Oregon State

This is my favorite running back prospect that not enough people are talking about. Jefferson put up some huge numbers at Oregon State. He’s especially dangerous in the passing game, where his vision and elusiveness makes him a big-time threat. As a runner, he’s tough and has the speed to run away from defenders in the open field.

157. Ihmir Smith-Marsette | WR | Iowa

Smith-Marsette clocks in at at 6-foot-0 and just 181 pounds. The weight will have many concerned about functional strength and injury probability. He’s a long strider with speed and the vertical ability to win deep. Iowa’s quarterback play just wasn’t good enough to get him the ball on a consistent basis. There’s some meat left on the bone here.

156. Josh Ball | OT | Marshall

Ball probably isn’t getting talked about enough. I get it, it’s a deep class at his position. He’s a towering presence that clocks in at 6-foot-7 and 308 pounds. He also moves well for his size. He finished at Marshall, but he was at FSU once upon a time. There’s big school talent here.

155. Trey Sermon | RB | Ohio State

I really enjoyed watching Sermon run the football at Ohio State, especially in the College Football Playoff. He’s an extremely tough, physical and decisive runner. I’d like to see him get more chances in the passing game in the NFL. I think there’s a bit of untapped potential there.

154. Camryn Bynum | CB | California

Bynum has the size necessary to play on the outside. He’s been exposed to press-man coverage more than anything at Cal. Athletically, Bynum’s testing results were better than what I would have guessed they were going to be based on the film. His length is just average.

153. Frank Darby | WR | Arizona State

Darby is one of the most technical savvy receivers in this class. He’s a good route runner that understands how to get open. The athletic testing wasn’t great, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Darby carves out a nice role for himself at the next level.

152. Israel Mukuamu | DB | South Carolina

Mukuamu is a big and physical defensive back that has shown the versatility to play snaps at both outside corner and safety. That’s why I have him listed as a “DB” here. He’s a little stiff in the hips, but I like what he brings to the table.

151. Seth Williams | WR | Auburn

Williams has an intriguing skill set that was wasted in Auburn’s anemic passing offense. He was often the target of throws that were deemed uncatchable. Williams has the size and vertical ability to be a better and more productive player at the next level.

150. Monty Rice | LB | Georgia

Rice isn’t the biggest or longest linebacker prospect in the class, but he reads the game at such a high level. He’s a sound and secure tackler in the run game. He’s also flashed some ability to play in coverage.

149. Damar Hamlin | S | Pittsburgh

Hamlin’s testing numbers were average at best, but the film is a lot of fun. Pittsburgh moved him all over their defense and the results were encouraging. He flies around the field on tape. He has the potential to become a fun and versatile weapon for a defense in the NFL.

148. Patrick Johnson | EDGE | Tulane

Johnson is a toolsy pass rusher that was incredibly productive at Tulane. He’s smart, strong and understands how to get after the passer. I really enjoyed watching both of Tulane’s pass rushers (the other being Cameron Sample). Johnson isn’t the longest guy, but there’s a lot to like here.

147. James Wiggins | S | Cincinnati

Wiggins is a terrific athlete on tape that made a lot of big plays while playing a versatile role in a good secondary. He missed all of 2019 with a torn ACL, but rebounded nicely in 2020. He’s been well coached by the always excellent Marcus Freeman.

146. Tony Fields II | LB | West Virginia

Fields played his senior year at West Virginia after spending his first few seasons at Arizona. Nobody is going to describe him as a H/W/L prospect, but he’s rangy, smart and athletic. I love the way he sifts through the trash in the run game.

145. Kary Vincent Jr. | CB | LSU

Vincent is a slot-only corner due to his size (5-9, 185). He relies on his natural ability more than technique at this point in time. He has the speed and athletic tools to stick at the next level. Vincent ran a blazing 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at LSU’s Pro Day.

144. Shaka Toney | EDGE | Penn State

An undersized but explosive EDGE player, Toney should be able to find a role for himself on obvious passing downs at the next level. He currently lacks the frame to play an every down role, but he’s so much fun when you let him pin his ears back and get after the QB.

143. Jack Anderson | OG | Texas Tech

Anderson is an offensive guard prospect that plays the game with a ton of power. If you aren’t familiar with Anderson, I would recommend that you watch him against Oklahoma State this past season. I thought he was terrific in that game.

142. Shakur Brown | CB | Michigan State

Brown doesn’t have much experience under his belt, but he has exciting skills as a nickel corner. His size will limit him to the slot in the NFL, but he’s shown some flashes of being able to play the position at a high level. He was very productive in 2020 (five interceptions).

141. Robert Hainsey | OL | Notre Dame

Hainsey has two things that NFL decision makers love. He’s versatile and experienced. He started at right tackle for Notre Dame, but played both guard and tackle at the Senior Bowl. I think there’s a good chance he has to kick inside at the next level. He’s smart and savvy enough to develop into a starter.

140. Sage Surratt | WR | Wake Forest

Surratt was incredibly productive at Wake Forest. He “wins” by making plays downfield. He also excels in contested catch situations. I’ve never been a fan of these types of receivers. Winning on 50-50 balls is a tough trait to hang your hat on. I’m lower on him than most.

139. Victor Dimukeje | EDGE | Duke

Dimukeje is raw but has some fun baseline traits. He’s quick, powerful and understands how to set the edge and defend the run. He’s still putting things together despite having plenty experience under his belt. He has a chance to be a solid depth piece rather quickly.

138. | Jaelon Darden | WR | North Texas

Can you say speed? Darden is so explosive. He can catch it underneath and wow you with his ability after the catch or he can run a go route that would have any cornerback struggling to match his speed. He can also return punts. He’s tiny at 5-foot-7 and 174 pounds.

137. Cade Johnson | WR | South Dakota State

Johnson was ridiculously productive at South Dakota State. He caught 139 balls and 25 touchdowns in his final two seasons as a Jackrabbit. He projects to be an exciting and elusive slot receiver at the next level. He can also return kicks and punts.

136. Stone Forsythe | OT | Florida

Forsythe is a big blocker that clocks in at 6-foot-8 and 307 pounds. You’d like to see him add some weight to his frame. He’s a good athlete for the position. He has the baseline traits to develop into a quality NFL starter.

135. Demetric Felton | RB\WR | UCLA

Whether he lines up in the backfield or out wide, Felton is simply put a big play waiting to happen. The testing results weren’t great, but don’t get caught up in that with this prospect. He’s dynamic and elusive with the ball in his hands. Felton is going to create for himself at the next level.

134. D’Ante Smith | OT | ECU

Smith is more of a project than finished product at this point in time, but his natural ability is worth betting on. His 35-inch arms are some of the longest of any tackle prospect in this class. He needs to pack on some pounds (he was just 294 pounds at the Senior Bowl), but Smith is a player worth taking a chance on.

133. Divine Deablo | S | Virginia Tech

There are plenty of fun safeties in this draft class and Deablo is one that appeals to me in the middle rounds. He’s extremely physical near the line of scrimmage. He does his best work inside the box. He might be a linebacker at the next leveI. think a pro team will find a spot for him on their defense.

132. Marvin Wilson | DT | FSU

Wilson was once seen as a potential first round pick. He’s trended in the wrong direction since then. A former 5-star recruit that has shown some flashes, Wilson needs to play with more consistency at the next level. I can’t wait to see how early (or late) he ends up going.

131. Hamilcar Rashed Jr. | EDGE | Oregon State

Whichever team is willing to invest a pick in Rashed has to figure out why registered 0 sacks in 2020 (in 7 games) after totaling a whopping 15 sacks in 2019. Rashed is a bit undersized at 6-foot-2 and 251 pounds, but has some nice athleticism to his game.

130. Milton Williams | DT | Louisiana Tech

Williams has been climbing draft boards since putting up some crazy numbers at his Pro Day. 284 pound defensive lineman aren’t supposed to run the 40 in 4.63 seconds, but that’s exactly what Williams did. I think this bandwagon has gotten a bit too full. The tape has flashes, but has plenty of inconsistencies as well.

129. Dazz Newsome | WR | North Carolina

Newsome is an explosive athlete that keeps the secondary on their toes. He has the foot speed to beat any cornerback deep. He’s also a threat on underneath routes because he’s so dynamic and elusive with the ball in his hands. He’s not the biggest or most physical receiver, but he has the potential to turn into a solid slot receiver.

128. Shaun Wade | CB | Ohio State

Once seen as a potential first round pick, Wade’s draft stock has plummeted since then. I still think Wade has a chance to be a good pro, especially if he plays in the slot where his speed and aggression gets to take a front row seat. I have no idea how early (or late) he’s going to get drafted.

127. Jordan Smith | EDGE | UAB

I never really understood the early round buzz on Smith. He ended up at UAB after getting kicked out of Florida. He had a stop at JUCO en route to the Blazers. He was incredibly productive in 2019 and 2020. There are some exciting flashes on tape, but he’s still very raw. He relies on length and athleticism, but his testing numbers didn’t do his draft stock any favors. A 4.79 in the 40, 4.75 short shuttle and 7.82 in the three-cone weren’t the expected results here.

126. Benjamin St. Juste | CB | Minnesota

St. Juste is a massive man for the position. He comes in at 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds with an 80-inch wingspan and 32-inch arms. He understands how to use his length to fight through the catch point. He’ll be higher than this on most big boards. I have some concerns about his long speed and ability to keep up with receivers as they get in and out of their breaks.

125. Darius Stills | DT | West Virginia

I’m a fan of what Stills brings to the table. He’s undersized but understands how to get after the quarterback. He fires off the line of scrimmage and plays with built-in leverage. His motor is always running red hot. He needs to show more in the run game in order to play a three-down role, but Stills has the skills to develop into a quality NFL’er.

124. Jamien Sherwood | S | Auburn

Sherwood is as big and physical as they come at the safety position. He has the size and ability to play in the box as a sub package linebacker. He’s fun and versatile. He can also cover tight ends in the slot and suffocate them at the line of scrimmage.

123. Janarius Robinson | EDGE | FSU

NFL teams will be trying to figure out why Robinson wasn’t more productive at FSU. The baseline traits are incredibly exciting but Robinson has yet to unlock his full potential. The flashes have been fun, but they’ve been just that. He’ll likely get drafted much earlier than this.

122. Charles Snowden | LB | Virginia

Snowden is incredibly long and rangy. He comes in at 6-foot-6 and 232 pounds with an 82-inch wingspan and 34-inch arms. There are so many things you can do with him on the field. Snowden can stop the run, rush the passer and play in coverage. We’re not talking about him enough. It’s worth noting that he’s still recovering from ankle surgery he had in November.

121. Ben Cleveland | OG | Georgia

Cleveland is a nasty and smart interior offensive line prospect that has spent the majority of his time at right guard. He’s incredibly tough and physical in the run game. Nobody would describe him as a particularly good athlete. He’ll lean on his football I.Q. and technique at the next level.

120. Osa Odighizuwa | DT | UCLA

One of the Senior Bowl’s standout performers, Odighizuwa is a fun prospect that loves getting after the quarterback. He plays with terrific effort and built-in leverage. He has good length with 34-inch arms and an 84-inch wingspan. He’s a bit undersized. He’s also raw as a run defender, but the arrow is pointing up.

119. Ambry Thomas | CB | Michigan

Thomas’ draft stock would have probably benefited from playing in 2020 but I don’t blame any player for opting out. Thomas is at his best when he’s allowed to play man coverage. I think he’s going to develop into a nice nickel corner at the next level. He loves getting his hands on his man at the line of scrimmage.

118. Tay Gowan | CB | UCF

Gowan lives and dies in press coverage on the outside. He’s big, physical and long. UCF often trusted him to play on an island out there on the boundary. There aren’t many corners in this class that specialize in press coverage the way Gowan does.

117. Quincy Roche | EDGE | Miami

I really enjoyed watching Roche on tape. He fires out of his stance and is extremely explosive. He has the speed and flexiblity to bend around the edge on a consistent basis. I’d like to see him play with a better motor, but Roche has a lot of tools in his arsenal.

116. Kendrick Green | OG | Illinois

An experienced interior prospect with more than 30 starts under his belt, Green has spent most of his time at guard but has also started a few games at center. Green is still a bit new to the position, but he’s very impressive. I hope he lands in an offense that is heavy on outside zone concepts. That’s where his athletic ability really shines.

115. Keith Taylor Jr. | CB | Washington

Taylor is a big and long corner that was meant to play on the outside. I like every single prospect coming out of that Washington defense this year. Taylor is a physical cover-man that excels in press coverage. He understands how to use his length to make receivers uncomfortable off the snap. He loves to tackle. Ball skills is the question mark here, but I’m a fan.

114. Alim McNeill | DT | NC State

I love Alim McNeill. He’s a big guy that moves incredibly well for his size. He’s very explosive for a 300 pound defensive lineman. There’s something about NC State and DL prospects. There have been several good ones over the years. McNeill is strong, quick, tough and plays with terrific effort.

113. Ade Ogundeji | EDGE | Notre Dame

I really enjoyed watching both of Notre Dame’s pass rushers on tape. Ogundeji has 35-inch arms and an 85.4-inch wingspan. Can you say length for days? He knows how to use it, too. He was incredible at this year’s Senior Bowl. He fires off the snap. He’s going to be more productive in the NFL than he was at Notre Dame.

112. Jamie Newman | QB | Wake Forest

Newman is my favorite of the “Tier 2 quarterbacks.” I personally think he’s the mid-round QB to gamble on. He has an incredibly strong arm. He has excellent size for the position. Newman will have to do a better job reading coverages and going through his progressions at the next level, but the baseline traits are there.

111. Elerson Smith | EDGE | Northern Iowa

I probably have Smith higher than most. I’m in love with the traits. He had a terrific Senior Bowl. The measurements are excellent. The tape is very good, albeit against lesser competition in most instances. Smith has the length and overall athleticism to develop into a good pass rusher at the next level.

110. Cornell Powell | WR | Clemson

Powell had to bid his time waiting in the wings but made the most of an opportunity in 2020. He finished the year strong. The sample size is obviously small, but Powell showcased some impressive abilities in 2020. I love his hands and how dangerous he is after the catch.

109. Kenny Yeboah | TE | Ole Miss

Yeboah is a really interesting tight end prospect. He began his career at Temple, where he learned how to block a little bit. At Ole Miss, he became a big time pass catcher. He has the skills, experience and athletic ability to make plays in the passing game.

108. Daelin Hayes | EDGE | Notre Dame

Hayes is the second of the Notre Dame pass rushers that I mentioned just a few players ago under the Ade Ogundeji heading. Just like Ogundeji did, Hayes had an excellent Senior Bowl. He has great burst off the edge and his hands are incredibly refined and advanced. He’s my favorite Round 3/4 pass rusher.

107. Nico Collins | WR | Michigan

We didn’t get to see everything Collins was capable of in Michigan’s terrible passing offense. He’s a big play waiting to happen but Michigan didn’t have the QB play to take advantage of his skill set. He’s a big-bodied target that wins downfield. He should excel if he lands in a vertical passing offense.

106. Tristen Hoge | OG | BYU

Brady Christensen is getting all the attention when it comes to offensive line prospects coming out of BYU, but Hoge deserves some love as well. Hoge is a smart and technically advanced blocker that should develop into a starter at the guard position.

105. Paulson Adebo | CB | Stanford

Much like his teammate Walker Little, Adebo was once seen as a first round pick. Things have gotten muddy since then, but I’m still excited about him as a prospect. He’s an outside cornerback that has the ability to stick with his man in coverage. He’s long, patient, smooth and athletic.

104. Trey Smith | OG | Tennessee

Smith was a big-time prospect before suffering a medical scare in 2018. We are thrilled that he’s gotten past those issues and is now ready to play in the NFL. He’s a powerful guard prospect that should thrive in a run heavy scheme that allows him to operate in a phone booth as opposed to one that asks him to do too much athletically.

103. Marlon Tuipulotu | DT | USC

I may be higher on Tuipulotu than most. He’s an excellent run defender that also has enough juice to get after the quarterback. He moves well for his size and his bull rush is tremendous. He had a good showing at this year’s Senior Bowl.

102. Dylan Moses | LB | Alabama

Moses is another prospect that was once seen as a first round pick. That’s no longer the case. Moses is incredibly athletic and offers sideline-to-sideline ability, but he needs to process things quicker. His football I.Q. isn’t as high as it should be. He’ll be a great player if his mind catches up to his physical traits.

101. Dayo Odeyingbo | EDGE | Vanderbilt

I would have had Odeyingbo in my Top 75 if not for an unfortunate achillies injury in January of this year. It’s a terrible injury. On film, the talent is obvious. He’s a big-bodied defensive lineman that can line up at any position across the D-line. He has tremendous length and knows how to use it. He took a huge step forward in 2020. I hope he recovers from the injury well and reaches his full potential. If he gets drafted late because of the injury, he has a chance to be a steal.

100. Aaron Banks | OG | Notre Dame

An experienced starter that’s seen a little bit of everything at Notre Dame, Banks is a big and tough interior offensive line prospect. Like the next player on this big board, he won’t fit into every team’s plans. He makes the most sense in a power scheme. Banks does his best work in a phone booth.

99. Deonte Brown | OG | Alabama

Brown won’t be on every team’s draft board. He lacks elite movement skills and is a below average athlete. He is not a scheme-transcendent player. Brown does however makes sense for a team that runs a power scheme on offense. He could be a plug-and-play starter in the right situation.

98. Kyle Trask | QB | Florida

Trask exploded in 2020 while playing in Florida’s spread west coast offense. Trask is a smart QB prospect that goes through his progressions and makes good decisions. The ceiling isn’t particularly high here, but at worst, Trask projects to being a high level backup at the next level.

97. Andre Cisco | S | Syracuse

The tape is inconsistent, but the highs are incredibly high. Cisco recorded 13 interceptions in 24 career games at Syracuse. He’s a better athlete than football player right now, but Cisco is going to be a quality player if he learns how to play with more consistency.

96. Tyler Shelvin | NT | LSU

A former five-star recruit, Shelvin is a big boy. He checked in at LSU’s Pro Day at 6-2, 350 pounds. Shelvin is a traditional nose tackle. There is little to no upside here as a pass rusher, which hurts him in today’s pass-happy game. But Shelvin is a dominant run stopper, and should be able to play himself into a two-down role in the NFL as a big body in a 3-4 front.

95. Kenneth Gainwell | RB | Memphis

Darrell Henderson. Tony Pollard. Antonio Gibson. Kenneth Gainwell is the next exciting running back prospect pouring out of Memphis. On film, he’s a dynamic runner that’s incredibly elusive in the open field. He’s also a terrific pass catcher that totaled an impressive 610 receiving yards in 2019. The Pro Day numbers were shockingly disappointing, but I’d be surprised if Gainwell wasn’t one of the first five running backs to hear his name called on draft weekend.

94. James Hudson | OT | Cincinnati

A former four-star recruit as a defensive lineman, Hudson is raw and has to make some strides before an NFL team can trust him as a starter on the outside. Hudson is an exciting prospect with a rare blend of size, power and length. He’s going to make a lot of money if his technique catches up to his natural ability.

93. Patrick Jones II | EDGE | Pittsburgh

Jones is a smart and disciplined pass rusher that was incredibly productive at Pittsburgh. He wins with a great get-off, and has a wide variety of moves in his arsenal including an impressive club-rip. I really enjoyed watching Jones on tape. But a lackluster week at the Senior Bowl and less-than-ideal results at his Pro Day may limit the upside here. Jones is a good run defender, and should be able to get on the field as a rookie at least in a rotational role.

92. Brady Christensen | OT | BYU

It’s easy to notice Christensen on tape when watching BYU. He was tasked with protecting Zach Wilson’s blind side in 2020 and impressed while doing so. He needs to add some weight to his frame if he hopes to hold up at the next level. His Pro Day results were fantastic, but 302 pounds isn’t going to cut it. Christensen may get drafted in the Top 60, but I’m personally not as high on him as some others are. His hands need a lot of work, and I have some questions regarding his true position.

91. Joshuah Bledsoe | S | Missouri

Bledsoe has been a bit underrated throughout this process in my opinion. He’s a versatile defender that especially impressed against Alabama this past season. When you play your best ball against the top team in the nation, NFL scouts take notice. Bledsoe does his best work in the slot where he can cover tight ends and receivers. He’s also a strong defender in the run game that can slice into the backfield and make plays. I’m a big fan.

90. Aaron Robinson | CB | UCF

Robinson ran the 40-yard dash in 4.39 seconds and recorded a 37-inch vertical jump at UCF’s Pro Day. The testing numbers confirm what we saw on film, where Robinson showcased his quick movement skills and explosive ability to drive on the ball. He’s going to be a good cover-man in the slot.

89. Talanoa Hufanga | S | USC

Hufanga is a big, physical safety that impacts the game in a variety of ways. USC lined him up all over the field and allowed him to use his instincts, movement skills and aggressiveness to create headaches for opposing offenses. His NFL coaches would be wise to utilize him in a similar manner.

88. Hunter Long | TE | Boston College

Long isn’t getting as much as hype as some of his counterparts, but he’s a fascinating tight end prospect in his own right. A big target that comes in at 6-foot-5 and 254 pounds, Long understands how to use his size and massive catch radius to his advantage. He’s going to be a nightmare for NFL defenses in the red zone. Unlike most tight ends coming from the college ranks, he’s also a sound, experienced blocker. He’s going to be a versatile player.

87. Walker Little | OT | Stanford

Little was once seen as a future first round pick, but even if he starts Week 1, it’ll mark two years since he last strapped on the pads. A 2019 knee injury followed up by opting out of 2020 has murkied these waters a little. Turn the tape on and it’s easy to see why he was once so highly regarded. Little is a massive blocker that was born to protect the edge. Little is a terrific athlete that has the potential to turn into a high-level starter if he can stay healthy.

86. Pete Werner | LB | Ohio State

Werner isn’t the sexiest or flashiest linebacker prospect, but he’s simply put a good football player. He’s also a better athlete than he gets credit for (as evident by his excellent testing results). He has the size and ability to be a three-down player at the next level.

85. Chazz Surratt | LB | North Carolina

I’m a fan on tape. Surratt plays the game with great range, which is a key trait at the linebacker position. Surratt needs to bulk up (229 pounds) and he’s not the longest guy either, but I love what he brings to the table. He’s tough, physical and covers a ton of grass.

84. Spencer Brown | OT | Northern Iowa

Brown is a massive blocker (6-8, 311). He’s also an excellent athlete that ran a 4.88 in the 40, a ridiculous 7.03 in the three-cone and leaped a 30-inch vertical. If I had to compile a list of my favorite Day 2 and/or 3 targets, Brown would be incredibly high on that list. I’m a huge fan.

83. Tommy Togiai | DT | Ohio State

They don’t come bigger and tougher than Togiai. One of the strongest players in this class, Togiai put up an impressive 40 reps on the bench press at Ohio State’s Pro Day. This is an excellent run defender that isn’t going to make much of an impact in the passing game. NFL defenses still need players that can do the dirty work up front. Togiai is that type of player.

82. Tylan Wallace | WR | Oklahoma State

One of the most prolific players in Cowboys history, Wallace hangs his hat on his terrific ability to win vertically. I like the player and I understand that the skill-set is fun and exciting. He’ll probably be higher than this on most boards you see. In my personal opinion, receivers that make a living by winning 50-50 balls down the field are dangerous evaluations. I always take a “buyer beware” approach with that type of player.

81. Trill Williams | DB | Syracuse

I list Williams as a “DB” because he did a bit of everything at Syracuse. They lined him up on the boundary on the left and right side, he played some snaps in the slot and even lined up as a safety at times. I personally like him best at outside cornerback where his length and aggressiveness often wins out. This is one of “my guys.”

80. Payton Turner | EDGE | Houston

The arrow is very much pointing up for this player.  Turner initially played defensive tackle at the 4i spot for Houston. He was a bit miscast there, and a move to defensive end changed everything for his pro ceiling. He became explosive and learned how to bend. Playing on the edge allows Turner to take advantage of his terrific length and quickness. Turner is an ascending talent that may get drafted a lot earlier than you’d expect.

79. Jay Tufele | DT | USC

Tufele is an explosive interior player. As a pass rusher, he often leans on how much power he generates. As a run stopper, he fires off the ball and holds up well at the point of attack. He’s going to be a difficult assignment for guards at the next level.

78. Chris Rumph II | EDGE | Duke

I’ll probably have Rumph higher than most. It wouldn’t surprise me if he gets selected in the second round. Rumph lacks great size for the position, but he’s a smart player with the ability to line up all over the front seven. He may have to move to an off-ball role at the next level, but Rumph is a player that can rush the passer, stop the run and play in coverage. A smart defensive coordinator would love to get his hands on this player.

77. Brevin Jordan | TE | Miami

Jordan reminds me so much of Jonnu Smith coming out. They’re both undersized tight ends that make up for their natural shortcomings by playing the game with a special level of physicality. Like Smith has done in the NFL, Jordan can move all around the formation and even line up in the backfield. Jordan’s testing results were underwhelming, but he’s a great athlete on tape that routinely made big plays happen, especially after the catch.

76. Jamar Johnson | S | Indiana

Confession: Johnson was one of the last players I evaluated in this class. He popped up on my radar after he started appearing on other big boards. That’s the honest truth. But I took a deep dive into his tape and felt silly for not getting around to him earlier. Hey, I’m only human. On film, Johnson is a physical safety that can do just about anything you ask of him from a coverage perspective. The ball production has been terrific over the years. He has great size for the position and plays the game with high level instincts.

75. Dyami Brown | WR | North Carolina

Brown has been incredibly productive in what’s been a fun offense to play in over the past few years. He’s a terrific athlete for the position that loves threatening cornerbacks vertically. He’s a smart receiver that understands how his ability to go deep opens up things for him underneath. I don’t see a Top 40 talent like some other evaluators do, but I’m excited about his potential at the next level.

74. Quinn Meinerz | OG | Wisconsin-Whitewater

One of the best stories of this draft cycle, Meinerz captured the nation’s heart with a breathtaking performance at the Senior Bowl. D-III players aren’t supposed to look this good, but Meinerz has completely aced this process. No player has improved their draft stock more over the past few months than Meinerz has. At this point, I’ll be surprised if he gets out of the second round.

73. Amari Rodgers | WR | Clemson

One of my favorite players in this class regardless of position, I would bet the farm on Rodgers being a successful player in the NFL. He finally got a chance to shine in 2020 after waiting in the wings for a few years. He made the most of his opportunity. Rodgers is small at 5-foot-9, but he’s built like a brick house and he’s incredibly effective after the catch. I love what he does once he gets the ball in his hands. He can start in the slot on my team any day of the week.

72. Michael Carter | RB | North Carolina

One of the most exciting running backs to watch in all of college football during the 2019 and 2020 seasons, Carter has a plethora of traits at his disposal. He runs the ball with excellent vision and he’s incredibly dangerous in the passing game as well. Carter may be undersized, but he can hang with the best of them. He was one of the big standout performers at the Senior Bowl. He’s going to be an excellent 1B to a pro team’s 1A at the running back position.

71. D’Wayne Eskridge | WR | Western Michigan

Eskridge was one of the most exciting players to study in this class. A former two-way player that spent a lot of time at defensive back, Eskridge shouldn’t be this advanced of a receiver prospect considering he rarely got to pour 100% of his focus into it. But I see a well-developed player on film that can run every route in the route tree. Eskridge went to the Senior Bowl in January and proved he could handle a step up in competition. He also has the potential to be an excellent kick and punt returner in the NFL. Draft this player and prosper.

70. Ronnie Perkins | EDGE | Oklahoma

Perkins is an incredibly tough and physical player. I think he’s going to be a really good run defender at the next level. He plays the game with a terrific amount of power. As a pass rusher, he relies on that power, speed and length. He loves using the long-arm and he had a lot of success with it against potential first round pick Teven Jenkins. I don’t think he’s an elite athlete, but he has a lot of traits that should translate well to the pro ranks.

69. Ifeatu Melifonwu | CB | Syracuse

Athleticism, length and physicality are the name of the game here. It’s impossible not to fall in love with Melifonwu’s traits on tape. He went down to the Senior Bowl and was one of the toughest and most talented players in attendance. He uses his closing speed and range to drive forward on the ball. His length and overall size makes him incredibly disruptive at the catch point.

68. Liam Eichenberg | OT | Notre Dame

An experienced starter that fit well into Notre Dame’s offense, Eichenberg is a long and strong offensive tackle prospect. Notre Dame loved running the football right behind him. His best chance at immediate success would be in a gap or power scheme.

67. Amon-Ra St. Brown | WR | USC

This is a wide receiver prospect that I don’t think we’re talking enough about. St. Brown was electric in 2020, catching seven touchdowns in just six games. He’s a good route runner that understands how to create separation. He pairs his technical ability with an exciting blend of athletic traits. He may get drafted a bit later than this. He’s going to be a steal if that’s the case.

66. Tommy Tremble | TE | Notre Dame

I love Tremble and I don’t care who knows it. Notre Dame didn’t throw him the ball enough. They asked him to block a ton in their offense, and he proved he could handle it. Tremble never complained. He did his job at a high level but I sense that everyone in the league (and probably at Notre Dame, too) knows that the untapped potential as a pass catcher is exciting. He has every trait imaginable to be an excellent tight end at the next level.

65. Jamin Davis | LB | Kentucky

There’s been some first-round buzz on Davis lately. That would be a tad early for my liking, but I understand why it’s easy to get excited about this player. Davis is today’s linebacker. He’s long and rangy. He has excellent sideline-to-sideline ability. He’s still learning how to play the position with better instincts. Davis is a better athlete than football player at this point, but the potential is through the roof.

64. Creed Humphrey | C | Oklahoma

It wouldn’t surprise me if Humphrey gets drafted earlier than this. There are a ton of reasons to believe that Humphrey will be a 10-year NFL starter at the center position. His coaches have described him as an excellent communicator. He’s tough, physical and smart. Humphrey could be a Week 1 starter next season.

63. Jevon Holland | S | Oregon

Oregon moved Holland all over their defense and he handled every task with ease on tape. He’s a great athlete that can command the back end of a secondary. He can also creep up towards the line of scrimmage and cover tight ends and receivers in the slot or make an impact in the run game. Holland also adds value as a kick returner. This is a good football player.

62. Jabril Cox | LB | LSU

Another example of being “today’s linebacker,” Cox turned heads in 2020 after transferring to LSU from North Dakota State. He passed the biggest test of all this past season by handling the step up in competition. He’s an incredibly athletic and explosive prospect. He needs to continue developing his mind and how he sees the game, but Cox has all the desirable physical traits at his disposal.

61. Hamsah Nasirildeen | S | FSU

There’s a lot to love here. Nasirildeen has incredible size at 6-foot-3, 215 pounds. He plays up to his frame on tape. You can move him all over your defense with great success. Not only does Nasirildeen understand how to use his physical gifts to his advantage, but he also moves impressively well for his size. There’s no stiffness in his hips. Nasirildeen can do anything you ask him to.

60. Jackson Carman | OT | Clemson

Carman was made in a lab. General managers and scouts put a ton of value in size and length and Carman has both in bunches. He moves well for his size and looks to finish every rep with violence. He reminds me of that nasty schoolyard bully you looked to avoid during recess. He’s going to be a road grader at the next level.

59. Tyson Campbell | CB | Georgia

A big and long cornerback prospect, Campbell was born to play press coverage on the outside. His agility testing times were poor, but he ran a ridiculous 4.4 in the 40 and his split times were also elite. It’s easy to spot Campbell’s athletic ability on tape. His smooth hips help him stay in phase with his man on the boundary. He loves driving forward on the ball with great click-and-close ability. Cornerbacks with his measurements and athleticism typically don’t last long on draft weekend.

58. Kelvin Joseph | CB | Kentucky

Joseph was one of the last cornerbacks I watched. Like many others, I fell in love with his tape against Alabama from this past season. I thought he was also really good against Georgia, too. Kentucky trusted him so much that they asked him to shadow Kyle Pitts on occasion when they played Florida. Joseph is a long and aggressive cornerback that contests the catch point with violence. He hasn’t played a lot of football with just 20 games to his name, but the sky is the limit here. He was born to play press coverage.

57. Rashad Weaver | EDGE | Pittsburgh

A big and explosive prospect, Weaver returned to Pittsburgh in 2020 and played at an extremely high level after suffering an ACL injury in 2019. He proved he quickly moved past the injury by recording 7.5 sacks this past season. Weaver played in a well coached Panthers defense and is ready for the next level. He’s long and he knows it. The long-arm is his go-to move and he uses it to great effect. He uses a sturdy base to generate power. Weaver is also a quality run defender. He’s going to be a good NFL player.

56. Wyatt Davis | OG | Ohio State

One of my favorite players in the draft, Davis plays every rep with a physical and aggressive mindset. He’s tough, strong and powerful. It wouldn’t shock me to see Davis sneak into the back end of the first round. He moves incredibly well at his size and several teams picking in the late 20’s to early 30’s could use that type of athlete on the interior of their offensive line.

55. Richie Grant | S | UCF

Grant has a huge fan base on Draft Twitter. I don’t personally see a first round pick here, but I do understand why so many love him. Grant went down to the Senior Bowl back in January and boosted his stock by having a terrific week in practice. He’s an excellent athlete that knows how to create turnovers. He can move all over the defense and impact the game however you need him to. He’s going to be a fun chess-piece for a smart defensive coordinator.

54. Josh Myers | C | Ohio State

The No. 2-ranked center on my board, Myers is a smart player and excellent communicator that also happens to be an incredible athlete for the position. He was nursing a foot injury during his Pro Day, so we didn’t get any official testing numbers. But from what I see on tape, I fully expected Myers to impress. He’s going to be the pivot for a good NFL offense.

53. Jayson Oweh | EDGE | Penn State

It’s so easy to get excited about Oweh’s potential at the next level. It’s also dangerous. Oweh is a freak athlete. He ran the 40-yard dash in a ridiculous 4.37 seconds. He also posted a 2.59 20-yard split and 1.59 10-yard split. His shuttle time was a 4.2 flat. He scored a 6.9 flat in the three-cone. All of these results place him in an ELITE category for the position. EDGE rushers aren’t supposed to move the way he does. He’s going to get picked early, and an NFL coaching staff will be tasked with molding his tools into more production.

52. Cameron McGrone | LB | Michigan

I went into McGrone’s tape knowing very little about the prospect. Mind you, this was several months ago. I just hadn’t heard any buzz on him. I came away pleasantly surprised by what I watched. McGrone is a physical player with sideline-to-sideline ability. I think we’d be talking about him a bit more if Michigan played a full season in 2020. He has all the tools to be a good NFL linebacker.

51. Daviyon Nixon | DT | Iowa

Nixon has a chance to be the first defensive tackle prospect to hear his name called on draft weekend. Nixon is an ascending talent that’s just scratching the surface of his potential. He fires off the ball with good burst and plays with a red hot motor on a snap-by-snap basis. A former JUCO transfer, Nixon is still figuring things out, but the ceiling is incredibly high here.

50. Rondale Moore | WR | Purdue

Moore is a shifty and exciting receiver after the catch. Purdue made it a priority to manufacture touches for him, and it’s easy to see why on tape. He’s a threat to score every time he has the ball. Moore is undersized at just 5-foot-7, and there aren’t many examples of successful NFL players at that height. But what Moore lacks in size, he makes up for in breathtaking ability.

49. Alex Leatherwood | OT | Alabama

A tough, hard-nosed offensive tackle, Leatherwood is going to make an NFL team very happy. If he hears his name called on Day 2, which many are projecting to be the case, a franchise will be getting a starting calibre offensive tackle outside the Top 32 picks. Leatherwood is an aggressive blocker that does his best work in the run game.

48. Mac Jones | QB | Alabama

Many are projecting Jones to get drafted inside the Top 5. There are whispers that Jones is who the San Francisco 49ers are targeting at third overall. I don’t buy that. I’m not as high on Jones as some other people in the industry are. I do understand why Jones is considered a first-round pick when taking positional value into account. He’s a clean thrower of the football and he rarely makes mistakes. His football IQ may be his best asset. I have concerns that his arm strength and inability to make plays outside of structure will limit his upside.

47. Elijah Molden | DB | Washington

Molden is one of the most fun players to study in this class, regardless of position. A nickel cornerback who also saw reps at safety, Molden is going to be a fun chess piece for an NFL defense. Instincts and ball skills are the name of the game when watching Molden on film. He was coached by the wonderful Jimmy Lake, and you can tell that Molden soaked up every word.

46. Jalen Mayfield | OL | Michigan

I list Mayfield as an “offensive lineman” because his NFL position will depend on which team drafts him. Mayfield played right tackle for the Wolverines, but many view him as a prospect that needs to kick inside at the next level. His Pro Day results did nothing to quiet that chatter. If you look at Mayfield as an offensive tackle prospect, the testing results were quite poor. If you look at him as a guard however, the results were a lot better. That doesn’t mean he’s definitely a guard at the next level. Some teams will still view him as a tackle. It’ll be interesting to see which position he ends up playing.

45. Christian Barmore | DT | Alabama

The sample size is relatively small, but the sky is the limit for Barmore. I don’t have him ranked inside my Top 32 like many others do, but I can see why a team may use a first-round selection on him. Barmore possesses a tremendous amount of raw power. If he reaches his full potential, he’s going to cause havoc in the backfield. The arrow is very much pointing up for this player.

44. Nick Bolton | LB | Missouri

Bolton is a physical linebacker prospect that led the SEC in stops in 2019 and 2020. On tape, he’s a tough finisher that punishes ball-carriers and would-be blockers alike. I have some questions about his ability to play in pass coverage, and there are some size concerns (5-11, 237) here as well. Bolton did a great job answering the speed question at his Pro Day with a respectable time of 4.60 seconds in the 40. He’s going to make an NFL coaching staff very happy with his traditional skill-set.

43. Baron Browning | LB | Ohio State

I’ve seen some big boards that rank Browning inside the Top 25. I’m a tad hesitant to place him that high. Browning is an athletic freak. His tape is littered with exciting, flashy plays. It’s littered with inconsistencies as well. For now, Browning is a prospect that relies on his athletic traits more than anything.

42. Levi Onwuzurike | DT | Washington

Onwuzurike moves incredibly well for his size. He’s an excellent athlete that has some juice as a pass rusher. He’s also a solid run defender. Watching Onwuzurike on tape is a clean and easy process. This is a player that should be able to play a three-down role relatively early in his NFL career.

41. Boogie Basham Jr. | EDGE | Wake Forest

Basham ran a 4.64 in the 40-yard dash at 274 pounds. A man shouldn’t move that well at his size. On tape, Basham is a smart player that understands the game at a high level both as a pass rusher and as a run defender. He was incredibly productive at Wake Forest and plays the game with a tremendous amount of effort. Some may view him as a tweener without a true position. This is probably true of all prospects, but Basham’s pro success will largely depend on his landing spot.

40. Pat Freiermuth | TE | Penn State

Freiermuth is a big tight end prospect that does an incredible job attacking the ball in the air. He’s dominant at the catch point. He’s going to be a match-up nightmare for NFL defenses. Freiermuth runs incredibly crisp routes for a man of his stature. This is a player that feels like a lock to be a good one at the next level. Tight ends are rarely major contributors as rookies, but it wouldn’t shock me to see Freiermuth hit the ground running in Year 1.

39. Gregory Rousseau | EDGE | Miami

It’s been a rough few weeks for Rousseau. He’s been a popular prospect to discredit. His Pro Day results unfortunately didn’t do him any favors. Despite the lackluster numbers, I’m still somewhat high on him as an NFL prospect. In a conversation with pass rushing coach Chuck “Dr. Rush” Smith, I was told that, up close, Rousseau’s body and build reminds many of Myles Garrett when he entered the league. Rousseau has some things to clean up technique-wise, but you can’t teach length, which he has in abundance. It’s something he should be able to use in an effective manner at the next level.

38. Joe Tryon | EDGE | Washington

Tryon was made in a lab. At 6-5, 259, Tryon has an 82-inch wingspan, 34-inch arms and ran the 40-yard dash in a mesmerizing 4.65 seconds. When I began scouting this class back in the summer, Tryon was one of my favorite and most surprising tape studies. I was confused regarding why I hadn’t heard more about him. It’s been nice to see the rest of the nation wake up to his talent in recent months.

37. Joseph Ossai | EDGE | Texas

An aggressive linebacker with a ton of upside, Ossai had an incredibly explosive showing at Texas’ Pro Day, highlighted by an impressive 41.5-inch vertical and nearly 11-foot broad jump at 256 pounds. He’s raw as a pass rusher, and he spent a lot of time playing as an off-ball linebacker at Texas, but Ossai has all the tools to turn into a sack artist at the next level. Outside linebacker coaches will be pounding the table for him on draft day.

36. Dillon Radunz | OT | North Dakota State

Radunz didn’t get to play much football in 2020 due to the impact COVID-19 had on the season, but he went down to the Senior Bowl back in January and had an excellent showing against some of the best players in the nation. That performance did a lot to quiet the competition concerns. Radunz is an excellent athlete on tape and he tested like one. His 7.26 time in the three-cone and 32-inch vertical are elite numbers for the position he plays. He possesses great length for an offensive tackle and is a physical, tough player. Radunz is going to be a steal on Day 2.

35. Javonte Williams | RB | North Carolina

Williams is undersized at 5-9, 212 pounds, but was one of the most dynamic running backs in all of college football this past season. He may be considered “small” by many, but he plays big. He is tough to bring down and has a ton of production after initial contact. Williams can also catch passes and is relatively polished in pass protection. Williams’ exciting three-down skill set should get him on the field quickly.

34. Asante Samuel Jr. | CB | FSU

One of my personal favorites in this class, Samuel is, simply put, a good football player. The NFL bloodlines are strong here. As you probably know, Samuel Jr. is the son of 2x Super Bowl champion Asante Samuel. Studying Samuel’s tape is a treat. It’s easy to see that he grew up around the game. He is a natural corner that has a great feel for playing the position. Ball skills were a question mark coming into 2020, but he did a great job quieting those concerns with three interceptions in just eight games this past season. Samuel reminds me of a bit of Antoine Winfield Jr. He may be small, but like Winfield, I’d be shocked if he doesn’t become a very good NFL player.

33. Terrace Marshall Jr. | WR | LSU

Marshall has terrific measurements (6-2, 205) and he pairs it with speed and strength. He understands how to use his size to his advantage. Marshall is a big pass catcher that can really move. Marshall ran a ridiculous 4.38 at LSU’s Pro Day. He also posted a 39-inch vertical jump. A bully at the catch point, Marshall was a nightmare assignment for cornerbacks in both 2019 and 2020. He’s played both inside and outside and is an excellent route runner. His ball skills are outstanding.

32. Trevon Moehrig | S | TCU

My No. 1 ranked safety in the class, Moehrig can play all over the field. He can line up as a single-high safety and get his hands on the football (seven career INT’s and 21 PBU’s), or he can line up in the slot and play man coverage against tight ends and wide receivers. He’s a smart player who has a great feel for passing concepts and how quarterbacks are trying to attack the defense.

31. Landon Dickerson | C | Alabama

It’s impossible not to love this player. Dickerson has a fun and goofy personality off the field but is all business when he puts the pads on. Studying Dickerson’s tape will have you believing that he has a 10-year NFL career in front of him. A smart blocker that excels at moving his man from Point A to Point B, Dickerson should be able to step into a starting role immediately.

30. Kadarius Toney | WR | Florida

An electric playmaker with the ball in his hands, Toney is one of the most fun offensive players in this class. He lacks great size for the position at 5-foot-11, 193 pounds. Toney is incredibly slippery after the catch. His abilty to make something out of nothing is truly special. Florida didn’t ask Toney to run a full route tree, and some may question whether or not he can make a successful transition to a more traditional role, but Toney is way too intriguing of an all-around weapon to pass up.

29. Eric Stokes | CB | Georgia

I’m a big fan of this player and may have him higher than most. I haven’t paid super close attention to where other analysts rank Stokes, but he’s a first-round talent in my books. Cornerbacks that have great size, production and are excellent athletes simply don’t last long on draft weekend. Stokes has good size at 6-0 and 194 pounds, ran a ridiculous 4.25 in the 40-yard dash and also posted a 38.5-inch vertical. On tape, he plays with great instincts and has the ability to mirror his man in coverage. A former track star, his 40 time wasn’t surprising or questionable. He showcases an ability to open up his hips and run on film. There have been some ball production concerns associated with his name, but four interceptions in nine games in 2020 plus 22 career PBUs alleviate those concerns for me.

28. Elijah Moore | WR | Ole Miss

A.J. Brown’s best friend is a popular prospect in Tennessee right now. Moore was absolutely electric at his Pro Day, scoring a 4.35 in the 40-yard dash, a 6.67 in the three-cone and a 4.00 in the 20-yard shuttle. All three of those results place him in the 90th percentile (or better) among all wide receivers according to RAS. Moore is more than a workout warrior. On tape, he’s a dynamic receiver that is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Ole Miss manufactured touches for him. This is the type of player that puts a tremendous amount of stress on a defense. He’s going to make a living in the slot (and in the end zone) at the next level

27. Zaven Collins | LB | Tulsa

Collins is a unicorn on the defensive side of the ball. He can rush the passer, stop the run and drop in coverage. What more do you need? He’s a fluid defender with sideline-to-sideline ability. There aren’t many 260 pound linebackers that move like Collins can. He’s a terrific athlete that will be a fun weapon for an NFL defensive coordinator to mold. Some see Collins as an EDGE player in the NFL, but he tells me that he personally sees himself as a SAM or WILL at the next level. Wherever he plays, he’s going to impact the game.

26. Greg Newsome II | CB | Northwestern

This is another player that was one of my favorite studies in the entire class. I went into Newsome’s tape several months ago with low expectations. I’ll admit that I knew very little about him at the time. I was floored by what I saw. It’s been nice to see the media-hype-machine catch up to Newsome’s talent in recent months. He’s an exciting prospect with great size, length and ability. His ball skills (20 PBUs in 17 career games) jumped off the screen for me. You may read that and question me since Newsome only had one career interception at Northwestern, but INTs are a volatile stat, and any player that gets his hands on the ball as consistently as Newsome does is due for an increase in takeaways at the next level. There’s no questioning his athletic ability either. Newsome ran a 4.39 in the 40-yard dash and posted a 40-inch vertical. There are some durability concerns here. Newsome never played a full season in college, but he also hasn’t suffered any major injuries. It’s always been something small and nagging that caused him to miss time. That’s not enough for me to change my high opinion of him.

25. Jaelan Phillips | EDGE | Miami

This is a tough one. Phillips’ draft stock should be an easy one to figure out, except it’s not (this is likely true for general managers and scouts as well), and in fact Phillips may be the most polarizing talent in this entire draft class. It’s impossible not to love him on tape. He’s a natural pass rusher with excellent length, flexibility, speed and get-off. Phillips also blew up Miami’s Pro Day by posting a 4.58 40-yard dash (an incredible time at 260 pounds), a 4.18 in the 20-yard shuttle and a 36-inch vertical. What more could you want? If only it were that simple… Instead, medical red flags and questions about his love for the game have muddied up these waters, making them much murkier than the tape and talent would suggest. I can’t wait to see where he ends up on draft day.

24. Samuel Cosmi | OT | Texas

I promise you, if you ever get a chance to have a conversation with Cosmi, you’ll instantly fall in love with him as a prospect. The son of two hard-working parents that fled a communist state in search of a better life, Cosmi understands the value of hard work. So much so that he drove for DoorDash and Instacart during quarantine. This is a young man that has been raised the right way. But hey, lots of “good people” make bad NFL players. To that I say, turn on the tape. Cosmi is a freak of an athlete at the offensive tackle position. He moves incredibly well for his size, and he’s smart. Cosmi posted a perfect score of 9.99 on his RAS. I can see him getting drafted in the Top 15.

23. Travis Etienne | RB | Clemson

One of the more well known names in this class, Etienne has been on the NFL draft radar for years now. It was a shock when he decided to return to school for the 2020 season after he had an excellent 2019 campaign. True three-down bell-cows are becoming rare at the next level, but Etienne has the ability to be that guy. Etienne is a breathtaking runner with the burst, acceleration and elusiveness to outrun and outmaneuver defenders. What Etienne lacks in elite size (5-10, 215), he makes up for with great contact balance and the ability to fight through the first tackle attempt. He’s gotten better as a pass catcher over the years, and is great in pass protection as well. Etienne has every trait to be a true game-changer at the position.

22. Teven Jenkins | OT | Oklahoma State

Jenkins is one of the toughest players in this class. He also happens to be one of the most talented and athletic offensive lineman available. In a conversation that I had with Jenkins back in March, he told me that an offensive lineman has to “go out there and be a d*ckh**d.” When I asked him why he took such a big step forward in 2019 (he opted out of 2020), he responded, “My strength coach told me that I needed to start road grading motherf***ers. So that’s what I did.” Well then. Jenkins is more than a colorful personality. As you can probably put together after reading those quotes, he’s nasty, mean, physical and tough on tape. On the athletic front, Jenkins put up an astounding 36 reps on the bench press, an impressive 32.5-inch vertical and ran the 40 in 5.01 seconds (a 9.36/10 RAS score). I’m a huge fan of this player.

21. Najee Harris | RB | Alabama

It’s impossible to not be mesmerized by how Harris runs the football. His energy is infectious. He’s a natural-born leader. He’s also an excellent player and prospect. The phrase “plays through the whistle” is usually reserved for offensive lineman, but it absolutely applies to Harris as well. He’s an absolute nightmare for would-be tacklers in the open field (and possibly the best hurdler in college football history). Defenders often look like they want no part of his 6-foot-2, 230 pound frame. It’s hard to blame them. He’s also a good catcher of the football. The RB1 debate between Etienne and Harris has been a fun one to discuss. For me, Harris has the slight edge.

20. Rashod Bateman | WR | Minnesota

Bateman is a popular name ’round these parts. I’ve been driving the Bateman-to-Tennessee bus for a while now. Bateman is an exciting talent. He’s a natural when it comes to plucking the football out of the air. He runs good routes and does excellent work after the catch. I’ve said it time and time again this offseason, his run-after-catch ability may be his best asset as a prospect. He’s incredibly tough to tackle in the open field. Bateman lacks elite size at 6-0, 190 pounds, but he passes the eye test and was an excellent contested catch winner at Minnesota. He’s a great fit for an NFL passing offense that relies heavily on the play-action game with a quarterback that gets the ball out quickly. I’d love to see him a run a bunch of quick crossing routes across the middle at the next level.

19. Kwity Paye | EDGE | Michigan

Paye is an athletic freak that lacks great size for the position. His Pro Day times of 4.52 in the 40, 2.61 in the 20-yard split and a 1.54 in the 10-yard split are elite results. He didn’t run the three-cone because he opted to stand by a previously recorded video that had him running it in 6.37 seconds. We don’t necessarily blame him. It’s a result that would rank him No. 1 out of 1,032 defensive ends since 1987 for whom we have documented three-cone data on. On film, Paye is a pass rusher that generates a ton of power thanks to his excellent short area explosiveness (which the testing results confirmed). He’s not a guy that plays with great bend, and I wonder if he may be a better run stopper than pass rusher, but Paye has the traits and tools worth betting on.

18. Azeez Ojulari | EDGE | Georgia

Ojulari has been the top EDGE player on my board all along and I’ve seen nothing to change my mind. This class lacks an elite talent (a la Joey Bosa or Myles Garrett) at the position, but I believe Ojulari has the most upside to become a true sack artist at the next level. An exciting talent with a great first step and explosive get-off, Ojulari terrorized offensive tackles in 2020. His motto is, “Beat the hands, beat the man,” and he plays like it. His hands are incredibly advanced as far as draft prospects go. He uses a club-rip and quick-hand swipes to beat his man one-v-one. His poor 30-inch vertical and 7.27 three-cone raised some question marks, but I’m standing by what I saw on film here.

17. Alijah Vera-Tucker | OL | USC

A versatile prospect that can play both tackle and guard, Vera-Tucker is a great athlete that does his best work as a blocker in the run game. He’s an excellent mover that reaches the second level with ease. He played left tackle for the Trojans in 2020 after starting 13 games at left guard in 2019. I began this process thinking he would definitely have to kick inside at the next level, but now I’m not so sure. On one hand, he lacks great size and length to play on the outside. On the other hand, he’s a terrific athlete for the position. Whoever drafts him is going to get a good, versatile football player.

16. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah | LB | Notre Dame

Don’t overthink it. Owusu-Koramoah lacks traditional size for the position, but simply put, he’s a good player. He weighed in at 221 pounds at his Pro Day, placing him in the one-percentile when it comes to weight for a linebacker… and that’s after he added weight. He played lighter than that at Notre Dame. Some see him as a safety. I don’t care where he plays. Just put him on the field. His rangy skill-set impacts the game. He has exciting sideline-to-sideline ability. This is a three-down player who can be a fun chess-piece for your defense. He can play as a WILL or he can come up in the slot and cover tight ends (which he did a bunch of in college).

15. Christian Darrisaw | OT | Virginia Tech

My OT3, Darrisaw is plenty long and athletic. He possesses excellent lateral quickness. Darrisaw earned a starting job as a true freshman for the Hokies, a truly rare accomplishment. It means he has plenty of experience as he gets ready to enter the NFL. An expert vertical pass setter, Darrisaw gets to his spot and gets his hands ready for combat. He always keeps his feet moving. Darrisaw is a scheme-transcendent player. That’s one of the reasons I rank him so highly. He’s been exposed to outside zone and inside zone. This past year, they became a run-heavy offense. They ran a ton of passing plays in a spread look. He’s played in a gap scheme. Whichever team drafts Darrisaw can do so with the comfort of knowing he can slot right into their offense.

14. Caleb Farley | CB | Virginia Tech

When watching his film, you would never guess that Farley played quarterback in high school and came to Virginia Tech as a wide receiver. He would eventually find his home at cornerback, where he looks like an absolute natural at the position. A back injury and procedure robbed us of watching Farley test at his Pro Day, and it’s a shame because I believe his numbers would have reflected the type of athlete we saw on tape. He has excellent click-and-close ability, he’s long, tough, physical and has great size. This is a player with elite physical tools. It’s a shame he didn’t play football in 2020 and didn’t get to test throughout his process. I can’t wait to see where he ends up. A draft-day slide isn’t out of the realm of possibility due to the question marks surrounding his back. I would have ranked him in my Top 10 if not for the injury.

13. Jaycee Horn | CB | South Carolina

A big riser throughout this process, Horn first announced himself with quite the standout performance against Auburn this past season. Horn recorded two interceptions in that game in addition to several other impressive pass break-ups. You can say that his meteoric rise began then and he’s never looked back. He tested like the elite athlete he is with a 4.39 in the 40, 41.5-inch vertical jump and 11’1″ broad jump. He has great size at 6-0, 205 and is built to play press coverage at the next level. This is an elite cornerback prospect.

12. Micah Parsons | LB | Penn State

The consensus No. 1 linebacker available in this draft, Parsons is a special athlete for the position. Parsons is an explosive prospect that quickly finds the ball and gets on his horse. He possesses high-level instincts and quickly sifts through traffic en route to the ball-carrier. He is one of the easiest film studies in this entire class. There are some off field concerns/maturity question marks here, but I would be shocked if Parsons doesn’t get drafted in the Top 15.

11. Zach Wilson | QB | BYU

I am fully expecting Wilson to be the second quarterback and player off the board, but he’s QB4 in my eyes. It’s not that I dislike him, but I personally have higher grades on Trey Lance and Justin Fields. Wilson is today’s QB. Quarterbacks that can make plays outside of structure and evade pressure are all the rage after the success that Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen have found in recent years. Wilson is that type of player. He cemented himself as the [big] Apple of NY’s eyes at his Pro Day, where he impressed with his ability to move around and make every throw from any platform.

10. Rashawn Slater | OT | Northwestern

Slater has been my OT2 throughout the entire process. There’s no reason for that to change now. Slater is a technically advanced blocker that moves exceptionally well laterally. He won’t meet the desired measurements for every team at just 6-4, 304, but plenty of teams would happily select him in the Top 10. His name first started making the rounds when he did an excellent job holding Chase Young in check during their meeting in 2019 (Slater didn’t play in 2020). You can go back and study that game right now and it still holds up. He leaves some to be desired in the size and arm length categories, but Slater was an easy evaluation for me. He’s an elite offensive tackle prospect.

9. Trey Lance | QB | North Dakota State

The sky is the limit for Lance at the next level. Lance is an incredible athlete for the position. He can escape pressure and make any throw from all platforms. He can take off and hurt you with his legs. COVID-19 held him to just one game in 2020, but he was incredibly productive in 2019. His release is quick and efficient. He’s an effortless thrower of the football. I understand the question marks here. He played in a friendly offense, didn’t have a 2020 season and there are some obvious competition concerns as well. It would make sense for him to sit behind a veteran signal caller for a year or two, but I would feel comfortable betting the house on Lance.

8. Patrick Surtain II | CB | Alabama

My CB1, Surtain checks every box. He features terrific size at 6-2, 208. He’s incredibly patient in coverage. You can tell that he grew up around the game. His father, Patrick Surtain Sr., was a terrific cornerback in his own right. Surtain’s hand placement is excellent. He understands how to use his hands to disrupt the timing of a receiver’s route. He has great ball-skills and the production to back that claim up with 24 career pass break-ups. He also tested like an elite athlete with a 39-inch vertical leap and 10-foot broad jump. He ran the 40 in an impressive 4.42 seconds. There isn’t much I would change about Surtain’s game. He should be the first cornerback off the board.

7. Jaylen Waddle | WR | Alabama

Let me start this off by saying that I’m incredibly high on all of the top receivers, as evident by this ranking for my WR3. What can I say about Waddle that hasn’t already been said? His game-breaking speed is absolutely electric. He’s a nightmare assignment in coverage. He has the deep speed to run past the best of the best. This isn’t a one-trick pony, though. He’s also an elite route-runner in the short and intermediate areas of the field, where he’s a tough cover when running slants and shallow crossers. He should also add a ton of value on special teams as a kick and punt returner. Waddle is the closest thing to Tyreek Hill in this draft class.

6. DeVonta Smith | WR | Alabama

Please don’t overthink it. No, DeVonta Smith doesn’t weigh a lot. Yes, DeVonta Smith is a very, very good football player. In fact, there wasn’t a better one in college football in 2020. Smith can line up at any receiver position and punish a defense with his exceptional route running ability and soft hands. He can run every route to any and every area of the field with great success. This is a receiver that understands how to create separation. He’s incredibly nuanced and well-developed in this area. I understand the weight concerns, but he plays a lot stronger than he looks. NFL teams never cease to amaze me, but I’ll be a bit surprised if his weight pushes him down the board on draft day.

5. Justin Fields | QB | Ohio State

NFL draft season is always crazy as plenty of false reports and rumors make their rounds. With that said, I truly don’t understand why Fields isn’t universally regarded as the second-best QB in this draft. Fields is an incredibly natural thrower of the football. His arm talent is tremendous. From top to bottom, his throwing mechanics are clean and efficient. The ball jumps out of his hand with excellent zip. He can make every throw. He fits the ball into tight windows. He has every physical tool in the book. He was incredible at his Pro Day. He proved his toughness in the Sugar Bowl against Clemson. He can extend plays with his legs. He can get outside the pocket and run the ball. If he lands in the right place, Fields has the potential to light the league on fire as a rookie.

4. Penei Sewell | OT | Oregon

My OT1, Sewell is an incredibly advanced offensive tackle prospect. He’s quick to get out of his stance and take control of a rep. He especially fires off the ball in the run game where he can be described as “a people mover.” He has tremendous latch strength in his hands. Sewell hits the 33-inch arm threshold and should hold up just fine in pass protection at the next level. This is a young prospect who should only get better and better with each passing season.

3. Ja’Marr Chase | WR | LSU

Chase has always been my WR1. I never wavered on that. I never allowed recency bias to creep into my evaluation here. Chase didn’t play in 2020, but he did set the single-season SEC record for touchdowns and yards as a true sophomore in 2019. He was the clear-cut No. 1 option on a team that also had Terrace Marshall Jr. and Justin Jefferson as receiving options. Chase checks every box. His size, ball skills, route-running ability, release package and hands are elite. His skill-set is superior. He’s also an excellent athlete. I wouldn’t change a single thing about his game.

2. Kyle Pitts | TE | Florida

There isn’t much I can say about Pitts that you probably haven’t already read elsewhere. He’s the best tight end prospect I’ve ever scouted. He’s an absolute matchup nightmare at 6-foot-5. Pitts blew up social media by running a 4.44 in the 40-yard dash. 245-pound tight ends aren’t supposed to move like that. An NFL offensive coordinator would be wise to move him all over the field and take advantage of his advanced skill-set. I have no idea how linebackers and safeties are supposed to cover Pitts at the next level. His speed, frame, massive catch radius and route-running ability are uncanny at his position and size. Don’t you dare talk about positional value here. Just draft Pitts and prosper.

1. Trevor Lawrence | QB | Clemson

Lawrence has all the physical gifts to be an exceptional quarterback at the next level. He’s the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck. His size, arm talent, athletic ability and football I.Q. are A-plus traits. He reads defenses at an incredibly high level. He has excellent pocket awareness and can evade pressure while keeping his eyes downfield and delivers the ball well from both traditional and untraditional platforms. He is incredibly poised, calm and in control at all times. His throwing mechanics are perfect. Jacksonville can’t possibly screw this up… right?

Agree with these rankings? Disagree? Let us know in the comments below!

Author: Justin MeloSenior Writer, Interviewer and Podcaster for Broadway Sports covering the Tennessee Titans and NFL draft. For more than five years, Justin Melo has professionally covered all things NFL draft and Titans for The Draft Network, SB Nation and USA Today. Best known for his Interview Series with NFL draft prospects, Justin has interviewed more than 500 NFL players. Co-host of the Music City Audible podcast alongside Justin Graver (@titansfilmroom).