It’s almost about that time as teams will hope to select the future stars of their respective franchises. Draft coverage typically covers the same guys over and over. Do you prefer Carson Wentz or Jared Goff? Where will Ezekiel Elliot land? Will Jalen Ramsey be a better corner or safety? While these are legitimate questions, let’s take a look at some players not getting much media attention. These are the players I love a little more than you do.
Devontae Booker – A versatile back with legitimate NFL size at 5’11 220 with better hands than Ezekiel Elliot and Derrick Henry. Booker has what it takes to be a real three down star at the next level. Excels with his quickness, vision, wiggle, and ability to finish his runs with power. I believe he needs to be included in the first round debate.
Corey Coleman – Coleman has the highest ceiling of all receivers in this draft and should be the first off the board. He is a true game breaker with a Dez Bryant like streak to him. Can take a short completion the distance with his play making abilities and open field prowess. Coleman is the complete package with Will Fuller speed, Josh Doctson leaping ability, and Laquan Treadwell physicality.
Kenny Clark – Put on the tape and watch Clark dominate with quickness and power in the run and the passing game. A do it all defensive tackle who penetrates gaps while holding his own in the trenches. There is a plethora of talent along the interior defensive line but I believe Clark is the most underrated. Think about who opened defensive lanes for Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, and Myles Jack to be successful. Kenny Clark did.
Kendall Fuller – The Virginia Tech corner back was widely considered a first round talent until a torn meniscus derailed his 2015 season. Kendall has the blood line being the fourth Fuller brother slated to play in the league and could be the most talented of them all. Fuller possess great instincts and ball hawking abilities you look for in a cornerback with the ability to play the slot or the outside. A zone defense would be ideal for him but can man up with his supreme confidence.
Sterling Shepard – With NFL offenses spreading defenses out looking for mismatches, it is essential to get a receiver who has a very high football IQ with the ability to run effective silky smooth routes. This is exactly why teams should covet Shepard as he will be ready to deliver right away and make it easier for his quarterback with his ability to get in and out of his breaks effortlessly. What he lacks in size Shepard makes up with toughness and work ethic ala Juluan Edelman.
Deion Jones – Here is a middle round player who can come into an NFL defense and make plays immediately. The speedy Jones is a true ball hawk with the ability to blitz the QB, run sideline to sideline, and cover downfield. Jones is still a little raw but with coaching and more experience he has the ability to be a starting three-down linebacker with excellent athleticism.
Tyler Boyd – Coming into the season my fellow colleague Strud had Boyd as one of the top WRs in the nation. After watching game film and studying Boyd I didn’t believe he was one of the best in the nation and didn’t think he was deserving of a first round grade. His lack of wiggle and prowess in the open field left a little to be desired but what I did like was his strong hands and the polish in his game. The reason I love him a little more than you do is because I believe he would be a great value pick in the second round as he will be a good number 2 possession receiver in the league.
Scooby Wright – A 4.9 40 yard un-athletic two down player will make many teams pass on Wright in the upcoming draft. To me this will be a mistake. You can’t teach instincts or toughness and Wright leads the pack in those categories. Watch any game of Scooby’s at Arizona and you will come away impressed wanting this guy in the middle of your defense. This kid makes plays and should not be overlooked. In 2014 he totaled 163 tackles, 29 tackles for losses, 14 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles. Incredible!!!
