Top Five Positional Rankings: Senior Bowl Edition!

Good day everyone! AskQuestionsLater here and today begins the long journey of the 2025 NFL Draft. We begin our journey with the Top Five Positional Rankings as we take a look before the Senior Bowl! For those of you new to the series, I will be taking a look at the five best players from their respective positions and break down, among the five, who is the best of the best at a particular skill. I will then rank the positions themselves at the end to give you all a better idea as to what I believe are the best positions vs. the worst ones. Now, before we begin, a disclaimer;



These written statements by the author do not reflect nor are shared opinions of members of TheSteelersFans Message Board, Staff Members and/or Site Administrator.
Quarterbacks:




1.) Cam Ward

2.) Jaxson Dart

3.) Shedeur Sanders

4.) Will Howard

5.) Jalen Milroe



Say hello to arguably the worst QB Class since 2013. Yes, yes, Cam Ward has the arm and Shedeur possesses the moxie and poise but neither strike me as slam dunk, Franchise altering QBs; doubly so in Sanders' case. Ward has far more to work with but is also far more trigger happy than he needs to be. The opposite is of Shedeur; a cerebral QB who can both proficiently and efficiently operate an NFL Offense by playing the position the way it was meant to be played. However, his overall arm talent, while very good, does not scream of Franchise QB capability. Regardin Dart, no where else would you find Dart ahead of Sanders. So.... why is Jaxson Dart ahead of Shedeur here?! For one, Dart has a better ability to anticipate windows and get the ball to those open windows than Sanders does. For two, he is not only more mobile but knows how to both proficiently and efficiently utilize his mobility. Most importantly, for three, I just find that, while his arm strength isn't quite as good as Sanders, his overall arm talent as a whole in conjunction with his anticipation shines better than Sanders. I am saying though that Dart will be a much better player than his draft stock would indicate provided if he is in the right system, which in turn, could make him into the better pro than Sanders.


As for the final two?! Howard has been a riser since the beginning of the 2024 CFB Season. His victory in the National Title game not only boosted his stock further but put him square into the Top 5 QB Conversation after being avoided for much of the season. However, as much as he has risen, I do have questions. His mechanics are not as developed as one would hope given how systematic he is as a rhythm based passer; doubly so in his lower half where his feet can be all over the place. For two, Howard has mobility... but not enough to make opposing DCs truly fearful. Biggest one though is his spotty accuracy. Now granted, it has gotten much, much better since the start of the College Football Playoff. I still believe that Howard will be in play as a Top 50 pick but I also see that it will take a special type of team to draft him as well.


Jalen Milroe; the best natural athlete and arguably the most electrifying QB of any QB in the class. If you were to put me to the fire right now and ask me who are the most athletic QBs in the NFL for 2025, Milroe easily is in that Top Five. As far as tools go, he isn't lacking in any area for any Head Coach. Long story short?! He is basically a supercharged Jalen Hurts. That should, theoretically, propel him into the First Round correct?! Well, there are a number of issues to tackle with Jalen Milroe. For one, his footwork is poor. For a better quick summarization of Milroe, his fundamentals and mechanics are in dire need of a tune up; a full 100 point systemic upgrade. That isn't the most concerning aspect of it all though; Milroe has more games played than Anthony Richardson but still hasn't fully managed to grasp the basics of QB essentials such as the importance of the drop back, the importance of hip torque, how parallel the wrist needs to be in conjunction with the elbow upon throwing, creating the proper launch point for passes both during the drop back and during the release point and most importantly, increasing his internal clock. There is a lot to work on with Jalen Milroe... and I mean a lot.




Best Arm Talent: Cam Ward

Best Accuracy: Shedeur Sanders

Best Pocket Poise: Will Howard

Best Pocket Presence: Will Howard

Best Improv. Skills: Cam Ward

Best Runner: Jalen Milroe

Biggest Boom/Bust: Jalen Milroe (very scheme specific despite near immeasurable athletic tools)

Most Pro Ready: Shedeur Sanders

AQL's Favorite: Will Howard



Running Backs:


1.) Ashton Jeanty

2.) Omarion Hampton

3.) Quinshon Judkins

4.) Kaleb Johnson

5.) Dylan Sampson


Let's get this out of way; Ashton Jeanty would easily be the best player in the class had it not been for one Abdul Carter Jr. Hell, who knows?! By the end of this series, Jeanty may be the best player in this drat. Wanna know something equally crazy?! Jeanty will also not be a Top 5 pick due to his position being unbelievably fungible either! Crazy huh?!


However, don't let that get you down; Jeanty is very much a scheme transcendent player. There isn't a scheme that Jeanty doesn't fit in. Very versatile, a rock solid athlete and one of the best pure runners in some time. His major two concerns sadly have to deal with both the amount of touches (over 800) along with his propensity of fumbles (8 total in his career). While I wouldn't put him in the same tier of a Bijian Robinson or even a SaQuon Barkley, Jeanty is pretty damn close.


That isn't to say that Omarion Hampton is chopped liver. As far as north to south runners go?! He is the complete package in the class with some receiving ability to boot. Just don't expect him to be creative after he hits the hole. As for Quinshon Judkins, say hello to arguably the most well rounded back in the entire class... and that includes Jeanty. Pass blocking may be an afterthought to some NFL Offenses but those who still do appreciate the value of it, Judkins is the best of the five. Kaleb may not have the athleticism of Jeanty or even the the power of a Judkins but he is the most paitent and the best creator of any back not named Jeanty. For that matter, he is arguably the best Running Back in the class for both short yardage and goal line situations. Just don't expect him to be a home run threat. Dylan Sampson is the opposite of Johnson; fast, explosive, electrifying, dynamic. If you want a home run threat for a running back, other than Jeanty, few options in the class have the ability to house one like Sampson. Due to his dynamic style of play along with his streamline build however, he is best used for an Offense that is predicated on speed and finesse rather than power and control.


Best Speed: Dylan Sampson

Best Power: Quinshon Judkins

Best Vision: Kaleb Johnson

Best BCA (Ball Carrying Ability): Kaleb Johnson

Most Versatile: Ashton Jeanty

Biggest Boom/Bust: Dylan Sampson

Most Pro Ready: Ashton Jeanty/Quinshon Judkins




AQL's Favorite: Quinshon Judkins



Wide Receivers:



1.) Luther Burden III

2.) Emeka Egbuka

3.) Elic Ayomanor

4.) Matthew Golden

5.) Tetairoa McMillan



Heading into the 2024 NCAA Football FBS Season, I had talked myself into believing that the 2025 WR Class could be just as good as the 2024 one; staring one Luther Burden III. For me, LB III was as a sure fire Top 5 pick before the first College Football snap was taken. What I saw was a supercharged Julian Edelman coming out; someone who could not only get open quickly but also create massive amounts of YAC. What both LB III and the 2025 WR Class gave me was disappointment. Luther isn't the Slam Dunk WR I'd thought he be but that doesn't make him any less valuable. Long story short on LB III; an absolute YAC Monster. For that matter, think a turbocharged Deebo Samuel. Yep, you read that right. While he doesn't possess the speed of an Emeka Egbuka or even an Isaiah Bond, LB III's overall skillset is still well within praise; all the more reason he will likely hear his name within the first 10 to 12 picks.


If LB III is the YACzilla, Emeka Egbuka is King Route Runner. Even in a draft that features some tremendous gems like Jalen Royals, Tai Felton, Kyle Williams (Washington State) or even ones that are equal to E^2 in Xavier Restrepo, none of them possess the complete profile that E^2 does. It isn't just route running that E^2 is accomplished at either; say hello to arguably the best blocker of all WRs. Only Jack Bech from TCU is either Emeka's equal or superior. Despite this, Emeka's inability to beat press at a consistent basis is what keeps him from being a true number one and the number one rated WR. His below average catch radius doesn't aide his cause either. Even so, should Emeka win at the line, he is extremely difficult to pin down in coverage.


For the rest, Elic Ayomanor and Matthew Golden both possess number one WR traits but both are victims of their strongest assets; Elic being a victim of how physically dominant he can be by being a crash test dummy for unnecessary punishment within CIT (catch in traffic) opportunities while Golden's superior press release compared to E^2 is more so due to his over reliance physical tools rather than technical savvy. Both however can be WR 1's for their Offense but both have more glaring issues to fix. One aspect that cannot be fixed as a Wideout is the ability to routinely beat press in addition to separate from coverage; leading me to one of my most controversial takes yet in Tet McMillan. Even in a class that features chain movers like Jack Bech or even one who is extremely skilled in Tre Harris, Tet McMillan's ability to make both CITs and Contested Catches are without peer among all WRs in the class. If anything, Tet's overall skillset, size, ball tracking capability and Zone Recognition make him one of the best Possession Receivers I have ever scouted. So, what is the problem?! For a guy that is 6'5, why is it so difficult for him to beat press?!?! Think Drake London vs. Joey Porter Jr of this season for example. Imagine that same scenario with T Mac; that is, more or less, of what you are getting with him. Athleticism for a WR should not be the end all be all but while T Mac does have great explosiveness, his lack of agility and speed hurt him even more despite his tremendous length. His YAC ability, something that one would expect T Mac to shine in, is also very underwhelming. All in all, T Mac is a supersized Possession Receiver who can beat threats vertically but only occasionally. Unlike the aforementioned four above him, T Mac is only going to get you yardage primarily on situational downs or even Red Zone based ones. However, due to the lack of athletic ability, severe lack of ability to beat press and overall inability to gain much YAC, T Mac is far more limited in terms of Scheme despite being a Wide Receiver who is capable of being a WR 1 in an offense.



Best Speed: Emeka Egbuka

Best Hands: Tetairoa McMillan

Best Route Running: Emeka Egbuka

Best Blocking: Emeka Egbuka

Best CIT (Catch In Traffic): Tetairoa McMillan

Best YAC: Luther Burden III

Biggest Boom/Bust: Tetairoa McMillan (Very Scheme Dependent)

Most Versatile: Luther Burden III

Most Pro Ready: Luther Burden III



AQL's Favorite: Luther Burden III



Tight Ends:


1.) Colston Loveland

2.) Tyler Warren

3.) Harold Fannin Jr.

4.) Mason Taylor

5.) Gunnar Helm



No Generational Talent to speak of means this is less boring! Leading us off is Colston Loveland; a rock solid Tight End who can do it all but is more in line with today's modus operandi of receiving based ones. He isn't nowhere close the talent of Tyler or even Harold in this regard but he is the most well rounded of the bunch.


Tyler and Harold will likely have the Tight End group beat in terms of athletic ability; doubly so in Tyler's case. Not only that, Tyler is only scratching the surface of his capabilities; a better player to come down the line should the right team draft him. Harold is much of the same though he will definitely take a little more time to develop. However, Harold is more than ready to take a risk on for his Receiving Skills, even by Tight End standards, are abnormal. Mason Taylor is the best blocker of the group and, as a result, one of the more underrated Tight Ends in the class. His receiving skills are solid but they will be nothing to write home about. In a power run based offense though?! Taylor adds a lot of value while being a reliable security blanket. To round out, we have a literal WR in Gunnar Helm. That really is it regarding him.



Best Speed: Harold Fannin Jr

Best Hands: Tyler Warren

Best Route Running: Gunnar Helm

Best Blocking: Mason Taylor

Best CIT (Catch In Traffic): Tyler Warren/Harold Fannin Jr

Best YAC: Gunnar Helm/Colston Loveland

Biggest Boom/Bust: Gunnar Helm (Immediate Separation is lacking; limiting his receiving abilities)

Most Versatile: Colston Loveland

Most Pro Ready: Colston Loveland


AQL's Favorite: Tyler Warren




Offensive Tackles:


1.) Kelvin Banks Jr.

2.) Will Campbell

3.) Josh Simmons

4.) Armand Membou

5.) Josh Conerly Jr.



From arguably the best position group a year ago to now one of the weakest overall in the class, what a difference a year makes. That isn't to say there is some tremendous potential to unearth here; Kelvin Banks and teammate Cameron Williams namely. The issue becomes that there is far too much talent and potential and not enough polish and discipline. For example, while Kelvin Banks possesses some of the best kick slides upon getting to his pass sets that one will ever see, his continual habit of overextension leaves him either vulnerable to exposed on film against longer and more powerful/faster EDGE players. Will Campbell is the exact opposite of the class; technically sound, fundamentally stout and ardent in his self discipline of the position. His biggest problem isn't so much his overall foundation on playing the position but rather the physical tools to succeed at the position. A heigh of 6'6 and a weight of 315lbs is rock solid for a Left Tackle. The problem though arises in his Arm Length; something none of us know about. The general consensus has been he is too short for the position; some outlets having him at a sub 32 inch arm length. For me, I will keep Campbell here until further notice. Should his arms prove to be even 33" though?! That alone will propel him to number one.


Two Offensive Tackles who don't have to worry about their physical nor athletic requirements are both Josh Simmons and Armand Membou. Josh Simmons was widely considered to be a Top 10 selection before the 2024 NCAA Season began before a nasty injury wiped out his campaign all together. Even with his injury accounted for, Simmons will likely make a full recovery and, as a result, allow him to regain his form and return to his dominant ways in the same manner that scouts saw in him during his 2023 campaign sooner rather than later. Now, as for Armand Membou, like LB III from the Receivers, don't let a mediocre Missouri season fool you. He is far more powerful and far more nimble than his size suggests. In addition, he is one hell of a competitor. For that matter, having a multi role OL with Membou's abilities would be a win win for all parties involved. That said, Membou's length is guaranteed to allow him to play outside just as he did in Mizzou.


Finally, there is Josh Conerly Jr. Athletic and nimble, he is a lot like Armand above. Thing is, while he is a good athlete, his play strength is severely lacking; namely in pass protection. Power based rushers will have their way with Josh for hitting his inside shoulder is currently the best way of beating him. GEven so, there is simply too much upside with him for he is only a two year starter and looks to get better. It is just that his play strength lets him down and will need time to develop.



Best Pass Blocker: Kelvin Banks Jr

Best Run Blocker: Josh Simmons

Best Zone Blocker: Josh Conley Jr.

Best Man Gap Blocker: Josh Simmons

Most Versatile: Armand Membou

Biggest Boom/Bust: Will Campbell (Arm Length Pending)

Most Pro Ready: Will Campbell



AQL's Favorite: Will Campbell




Interior Offensive Lineman:



1.) Donovan Jackson

2.) Wyatt Milum

3.) Tate Rattledge

4.) Jonah M. Savaiinaea

5.) Tyler Booker




This season there is no shortage of Guards; all of them being Guards minus one Wyatt Milum, who showed at the Senior Bowl he is capable of playing all five. Getting back to the number one though, Donovan Jackson actually possesses far more versatility than others gave him credit for. Keep in mind that, during his days as highly sought after recruit, he was measured to have a wingspan of 7 ft and an arm length of 36 inches. Beyond his superb physical profile is his athletic one too; one of the most athletic guards I have seen since Quenton Nelson. However, this also sometimes gets him into trouble; Jackson can miss on his initial punch during some pass sets due to unusual footwork. Despite this, Donovan Jackson is now listed as a Guard but can easily be an Offensive Tackle; the same way Ohio State used him en route to a National Title.



Returning to our second ranked player Wyatt Milum. The number one issue I have with him isn't so much his overall strength but a lack of weight behind it. However, rarely does Wyatt Milum get beat and even more so, rarely do fellow defenders get the better of him. Say hello to arguably the most violent striker of not just any Lineman from either side but potentially the entire class. Even some of the best power rushers are stymied when Milum's technique and discipline are operating in top form. Like Campbell though, length is his greatest obstacle.. though Milum does have more than enough to survive on the inside.



Much like the Offensive Tackles, the next two Offensive Guards are not lacking in measurables. Tate Rattledge and Jonah Savaiinaea both have the physical dimensions one could ask for in regards to IOL. Now, as for Tate Rattledge, he will likely not be as physically impressive as Jonah but his athleticism most definitely will be. His biggest issue though stem from a lack of flexibility on the inside; a right guard only. Regardless, Tate Rattledge is easily a plug 'n' play player and one of the safest players among all Offensive Lineman; Offensive Tackle or IOL. Getting back to Jonah though, having nearly 35 inch arms with an a near 82 inch wingspan suggests he could play OT... and he actually did at the University of Arizona. However, he is listed as an IOL. So, what is the problem?! The answer lies in his athleticism.. or lack thereof. He is way, too, slow. Now, losing weight, him being listed at nearly 340lbs, would help. How much so remains to be seen. If he does though, he can rocket up the boards for his ability to displace people in the run game is arguably the best in the entire class.


Finally, another of the wonder kids in Tyler Booker. What is my major issue with him though?! Unlike T Mac, athletically speaking, this dude is rock solid. I'd still have him be used for a man gap based offense but if he tests as well as I believe he can, there is no reason to speculate that even zone based Offenses would welcome him. Physically speaking?! About as much as one could dream up. From a fundamental and technical standpoint though?! Yikes; doubly so in pass protection. Far too often his initial strikes are on the outside of a defenders shoulder with his outside hand. Even when he does display the proper technique, his lack of body control will show up should he be tasked to pass off defenders to other lineman. Again, his overall level of athleticism is very good but his lateral agility isn't something I'd trust in such a pass protection scheme that requires frequent pass offs. Harsh I know but the lack of overall hand placement when engaging IDLs is going to get him in trouble far more in the pros than it ever did in college.




Best Pass Blocker: Armand Membou

Best Run Blocker: Tyler Booker

Best Zone Blocker: Armand Membou

Best Man Gap Blocker: Tate Rattledge

Biggest Boom/Bust: Wyatt Milum (Insufficient Strength)

Most Versatile: Armand Membou

Most Pro Ready: Donovan Jackson


AQL's Favorite: Donovan Jackson



Interior Defensive Lineman:



1.) Kenneth Grant

2.) Mason Graham

3.) Walter Nolen

4.) Tyleik Williams

5.) Derrick Harmon




Most whom where expecting Mason Graham to be number one surely didn't expect his teammate to be; an oddity if there ever was. Kenneth Grant isn't just the best IDL in the class, he has the potential to be one of the most impactful lineman in it as well; regardless of position. For a start, as hinted before, say hello to arguably the most athletic player among IDLs. Never mind IDLs, Grant is arguably the most athletically gifted among all players in the 2025 NFL Draft. Grant's motor runs white hot. That is not normal for someone of his size. However, it is also the technical foundation he displays that makes him my number one choice. Grant's biggest issue is his lack of consistency in his ability to pass rush. Again, the foundation is there, but the consistency isn't. Given the rest of his abilities though, that should be a problem.




Now for the draft darling in Mason Graham. Graham truly is unlike any other IDL I have scouted in some time in terms of his overall skillset. Unlike his superfreak of a teammate in Kenneth Grant, Mason's overall athletic abilities leave me wanting more. His overall athletic abilities though are only okay. Hell, even in a draft with such athletic freaks, I would place Mason Graham at number one despite that. However, there is another major reason as I why I cannot. He is an excellent disruptor, but only that. The effort, technique, discipline, disruption and pass rush abilities are all there to easily spend a Top 10 pick on but the lack of additional horsepower really lets him down.


Walter Nolen, once the top recruit in the country, now among the very best of IDLs. Realistically speaking, Nolen should be at the top of this list given how athletically gifted he is. Not quite a Kenneth Grant but pretty damn close. Just about any type of pass rushing move has been used by Nolen to devastating effect. In one on ones against Offensive Lineman in running plays, he is not just equipped to maintain the POA but also beat them 9 times out of 10. However, Nolen has never truly lived up to nor has played up to his tremendous, god given talents. For one, while he can win against anyone in the run, generally speaking, he either stalemates or loses in the run. His biggest negative though stems from his lack of consistency in the passing game. Still, Nolen's abilities and latent potential are very, very notable on tape and, as such, he possesses not just the highest ceiling of any IDL but arguably of any player in the class. Only Jalen Milroe, Mykel Williams and possibly Jahdae Barron either have as much or more.


Tyleik Williams isn't lacking in terms of power. For that matter, he is arguably the best pure run stuffer in the entire class. His athleticism is also very good. The greatest asset though for Tyleik, as mentioned, is his ability to stuff the run. Never mind being a wall, Tyleik is a deeply rooted tree stump. He is very difficult, if not impossible at times, to displace him. The biggest draw back of him though will be his very limited pass rush abilities. It isn't he cannot pass rush.. it is just that he simply doesn't have the consistency one would like out of a IDL nor does he bring forth a good enough one when rushing. In spite of this, Tyleik is very much worthy of a Round 1 pick for there really isn't a IDL with the level of run stuffing capability that Williams possesses; Kenneth Grant included. To round out the IDLs, Derrick Harmon; great pass rushing skills, rock solid run stuffing skills, great athlete and ball batting machine. What's not to like?! Horrendous.. and I mean horrendous tackling ability. Effort though is another question mark for me. Unlike every other IDL on the list, Derrick Harmon's effort, for whatever reason, comes and goes when finishing plays. Every time he is close to making a great play, the odds are 50/50. His overall skillset is worthy of a Round 1 selection but I would be hesitant to do so unless he is in a room with a reputable Defensive Lineman Coach and/or a veteran led locker room.



Best Pass Rusher: Walter Nolen

Best Run Stopper: Tyleik Williams

Best 3 Tech: Mason Graham/Walter Nolen

Best 5 Tech: Derrick Harmon

Best 0/1 Tech: Kenneth Grant/Tyleik Williams

Most Versatile: Kenneth Grant/Derrick Harmon

Biggest Boom/Bust: Derrick Harmon (Tackling Issues)

Most Pro Ready: Mason Graham


AQL Favorite: Kenneth Grant



EDGE:


1.) Abdul Carter

2.) James Pearce Jr.

3.) Jalon Walker

4.) Nic Scourton

5.) Mykel Williams



After no true Hell Raiser was to be found among the 2024 EDGE Players, 2025 returns with a bang....and one that possesses day one, All Pro Potential. Abdul Carter Jr. isn't just the best player among EDGEs, he is the best player in the class... period. Better than Travis Hunter Jr and Ashton Jeanty even. There really isn't much to say other than he is, hands down, the best pure pass rusher in the class. Much like Walter Nolen, there isn't a single pass rushing move he cannot perform. Unlike Nolen however, he can use these moves consistently and efficiently; often to game altering results. Whomever drafts Carter Jr is going to draft not just an impact day one player but also a possible Rookie All Pro; something that should never be taken for granted.

James Pearce Jr. isn't nearly as gifted of an athlete nor quite as good at holding the edge at the POA on running plays like Carter is. However, as far as pass rushing goes?! He is definitely up there. For that matter, James Pearce Jr may be the fastest EDGE I have scouted since Myles Garrett. Every time Pearce rushes the QB, it is like watching a Dodge Challenger Demon at a drag strip; pure violent beauty. However, all this speed does come at a severe cost. Pearce will never be labeled as an EDGE who can set the EDGE though much of the early season woes he did show at Tennessee have been ironed out. Even if not accounting for his lack of play strength against the run, he is rail thin at roughly 245lbs. As such, he is limited to a 3-4 OLB where the likes of 3-4 DEs can do the dirty work during running plays; freeing up Pearce to sniff out and negate positive yardage to his side.

Jalon Walker is the ultimate hybrid of EDGEs. Part ILB, part EDGE, all throttle. Not only does he understand both positions at a fundamental level well enough to warrant a First Round consideration, he is capable of being tasked with a number of different responsibilities as well despite his limited playing time. That said, using him as an Off Ball LB would severely hinder his pass rushing potential; potential that is massive. As such, having him learn EDGE would be the safer bet, for now. I say for now as I said before, one year of full time starting experience. To make matters worse, like Pearce, Walker isn't the traditional EDGE himself though not lacking in bulk. His lack of height is going to be a talking factor for some but not for me personally. What does bother me though is which team is going to draft him. Much like how someone like Jalen Milroe needs a creative Offensive Mind to maximize his latent abilities, it is going to take an equally creative defensive mind to do so for Walker.

Nic Scourton is another hybrid though only so as far as pass rushing is concerned; half IDL, half EDGE, all brute force. Much like Carter and Pearce Jr., there isn't too many pass rushing tools that he does not possess at his beckon call to use. Unlike those two however, he can be lined up just about anywhere ranging from the 4i along the IDL to the 7 as an EDGE. In addition, unlike Walker who will need a creative DC to schematically maximize his abilities, Scourton can be used right away; finding an Offensive Lines/Protection Weak points and exploit them. Despite this, Nic's biggest flaw as of currently is a lack of understanding in terms of a pass rush plan. His tackling also seems to be a bit hit or miss though not nearly as bad as Derrick Harmons. Even so, Nic's versatility makes him one of the drafts best overall chess pieces no mater the position and should be a boon to pass rush hungry teams.

Last up is Mykel Williams, the supremely gifted athletic prodigy from Georgia. As far as athletes go in this class, he is right up there with them. Expect him to put on a show at the 2025 NFL Combine; both in the weigh in and during the Underwear Olympics. Everything about his athletic profile will be either elite level to near elite level; a one of one if you will. That said, despite his immeasurable athletic gifts.. he doesn't have a lot of production to show for it pass rush wise. His pass rushing plan is way too predictable and linear for someone of his athletic gifts. Even so, Mykel does possess every tool a Defensive Coordinator could ever want in an EDGE Prospect. If there is one major reason to invest in Mykel Williams, it is the fact that this class of EDGE players is lacking a bit in terms of those who can stop the run. However, Mykel Williams is the best among the five. He does have his warts but there will not be many times of him being overwhelmed by opposing OTs in the running game; much less Tight Ends sans for the most elite of blockers. Drafting an EDGE in Round 1 purely for his ability to stuff the run sounds silly but Jermaine Johnson II of the New York Jets was a First Rounder himself and has been a rock solid contributor for them. I see Mykel's potential even greater than JJ IIs was.



Best Speed Rusher: James Pearce Jr.

Best Power Rusher: Nic Scourton

Most Versatile Rusher: Abdul Carter

Best Run Stopping: Mykel Williams

Best Coverage: Jalon Walker

Best HID (Hand in Dirt): Abdul Carter

Best 3-4 OLB: James Pearce Jr.

Biggest Boom/Bust: Jalon Walker (Creative DC required)

Most Versatile: Abdul Carter/Nic Scourton

Most Pro Ready: Abdul Carter


AQL's Favorite: James Pearce Jr.


Off-Ball Linebackers:


1.) Jihaad Campbell

2.) Carson Schwesinger

3.) Barrett Carter

4.) Demetrius Knight

5.) Chris Paul Jr.


After 2023's Jack Campbell from the University of Iowa, I was all but convinced he would have been the last Off Ball Linebacker I would see be drafted in Round One, much less the Top 20, ever again. Two years later, I find myself smiling ear to ear to know that he may be joined by another. Jihad Campbell reminds me very fondly of Tremaine Edmunds from Virginia Tech. However, unlike Tremaine Edmunds, there is a lot more pass rushing upside to Jihaad. Jihaad, when everything works for him, plays like a Top 10 Off Ball NFL Linebacker. However, Jihaad's lack of play diagnosis and propensity to not understand critical downs is also what will leave scouts second guessing. Despite this, there is simply too much Jihaad brings to an NFL Locker Room to a position that is very much devoid of elite players in the league sans Roquan Smith, Fred Warner, Zach Baun, Frankie Luvu and Zaire Franklin. Having a potential Top 10 LB at such a talent scarce position will give teams not just a top shelf coverage player but also one that injects more speed and strike power.

While Jihaad is truly athletic, his lack of play recognition will catch up to him if not corrected. Carson Schwesinger of UCLA doesn't have such an issue though while being no slouch in the athletic department himself. From tackling to situational awareness, Carson is one of the more cerebral players among all Off Ball LBers. As far as pass coverage is concerned, zone drops aren't too big of an issue for him either; often getting good depth and playing within reads. I say not too big as savvy QBs can misdirect him. Not only that, his over aggression leaves him vulnerable to optional reads though this didn't happen as often as it did early in the UCLA Season. Even so, there are far more savvy QBs in the NFL than there are in the PAC. As such, Carson isn't likely going to hear his name called on Day 1 but that doesn't mean he won't be an effective starter down the road.

Barrett Carter.... yikes. From arguably the Top Prospect among all Off Ball LBs a year ago to one that may barely crack the Top 75, Carter truly has seen better days. His blend of athleticism, run support, zone coverage, coverage discipline and run discipline are still very much there as they were from a season ago. The issues fall under the fact that his subpar ability to make splash and passive tackling still remain. If anything, they also appear to be either just as bad as I remembered them to be to potentially worse depending on the Offense; West Coast Offenses giving him some of the biggest of headaches. Regardless, Carter is still worth having in an NFL Locker Room though it is fair to question if he will be ready to start sooner rather than later. Someone who is new to my Top Five is Demetrius Knight. In terms of pure violence and rage, I don't know if there is any Defensive Player in this class that plays more pissed off than Knight does; an underrated but essential component of a Linebacker. Within this rage though is controlled fury; something quite a bit of even the best players can struggle with. Knight doesn't struggle with this nearly as much; doubly so in running plays. When he fills the rushing lanes, every tackle is either an audible pop to a hit stick; usually amped up by textbook technique. In terms of pass coverage though?! He has the penchant for making big plays as an instinctive player but lacks some hip flexibility to considered among the best in Zone Coverage. Man Coverage is also out of the question against some of the better slot based options as well. While Demetrius isn't perfect (no prospect is), he does bring both an infectious energy along with some quality playmaking that will endear him to any locker room.

As for Chris Paul Jr.?! Gonna sound a bit lazy of me I know but take what I said about Knight Jr, increase his abilities in overall pass coverage along with his athleticism but decrease his play strength in run support while dialing back the aggression. That really is, more or less, what Chris Paul is. The dialing back though does not stem from being on the same level for he is almost as pissed off as Knight but the overaggressive nature that plagues so many young LBs in run support.


Best Pass Coverage: Jihaad Campbell

Best Run Support: Demetrius Knight Jr.

Best Pass Rusher: Demetrius Knight Jr.

Best Instincts: Carson Schwesinger

Best Leadership: Barrett Carter/Demetrius Knight Jr.

Biggest Boom/Bust Potential: Jihaad Campbell (needs some serious coaching up)

Most Versatile: Jihaad Campbell

Most Pro Ready: Barrett Carter


AQLs Favorite: Carson Schwesinger


Cornerbacks:


1.) Travis Hunter

2.) Will Johnson

3.) Benjamin Morrison

4.) *** Jahdae Barron ***

5.) Shavon Revel Jr.



The 2025 Draft gives us a blue chip talent in Travis Hunter. Now, most do see him as a Generational Prospect and, to an extent, I did in 2023. In 2024 though, my tune changed a bit. It has nothing to do with his overall abilities; he is easily among the best or the very best in just about every metric one could count on. For example, I do find that while Hunter possesses some of the best overall form of coverage in the class, Will Johnson is the superior Man Coverage Corner. In the meantime, say hello the best playmaking Defensive Back since Jalen Ramsey circa 2016. No CB I have scouted since has been more electrifying once he has the ball in his hands. Again though, if he is so great in so many key areas, what could be Hunter's greatest weakness?! Durability. From an ACL in High School, to a lacerated liver, a bruised shoulder along with knicks and bruises in between, Hunter has definitely missed some time for certain. If there is one major concern I do have in which why I cannot project him to the same level of Generational Talent as I did with the likes of Jeff Okudah is the lack of foot speed.However, with elite level playmaking, tremendous coverage skills, superb ball skills and a propensity to tackle in the running game with some rage, Hunter is the best of the best for all Defensive Backs and not just Corners.

For Will Johnson and Benjamin Morrison, these two can be lumped together for they actually possess similar skills but with varying ways to win. For Will Johnson, as I explained earlier, say hello to the best man coverage Corner in the class. When it comes to zone?!... one of the best and the best if Travis Hunter isn't accounted for. What he will not have your back on is in run support; something he appears to be very business based on. As for Benjamin Morrison, he is one of the best Zone Coverage Corners in the class. Outside of Hunter and Will Johnson, Morrison can be counted on in Zone though at times can be tricked either by his own aggression or a QB baiting him. Man Coverage is much of the same story though his long speed, along with his height of 5'11, doesn't leave him with many breaks in terms of his technique; technique that requires him to be air tight at all times. Realistically speaking, he is very good at man coverage though I'd argue he would be the fourth best; Jahdae Barron bringing up the rear. What Morrison does better than arguably any other natural corner is his abilities in run support. For that matter, I'd actually trust Morrison a bit more than Hunter for Morrison's tackling has been long proven to be textbook. Hunter's superior strength permits him to take on, and win against, bigger targets but he doesn't possess quite the discipline that Morrison does. Despite this, Morrison's biggest flaw at present is a Hip Injury he sustained during the season; ending it effectively. He will be ready for OTAs according to reports but in a position that requires both precision and discipline, traits that are amplified greatly in the NFL, would it be wise to spend such high capital on a player returning from injury?! Time will tell in that area.

Jahdae Barron is very much like Cooper DeJean from 2024 so I will not spend as much time as I did from a season ago. If one would like to know what that means to be compared to Cooper, in basic terms, there isn't a position along the back end that Jahdae cannot play. Free Safety, Strong Safety, Slot DB, Outside CB, STAR, it doesn't matter really. However, why do I have Barron rated so low in comparison to Cooper?! Unlike Cooper, Barron is a very good but not great athlete and being only 5'11 really limits how much a team should use him on the outside. That all said, Barron's instincts, play recognition, pre snap recognition, situational awareness and Football IQ have shown to outweigh his size/athletic limitations more often than not. Jahdae though will require a creative mind to take advantage of his play making capabilities rather than attempting to fit him in a position.

Finally, Shavon Revel Jr., once a Top 15 lock by many, myself included, is now all over the place. It is bad enough that ECU really isn't considered a powerhouse and, due to that fact, Shavon's lack of true competition is warranted in terms of concern here. It also does not help that, unlike every other CB on the list, Shavon is by far and away the most aggressive in coverage; too much for his own good. This aggression does come in handy in run support but definitely not in pass coverage. Even amounting to all of that, he is also out with an ACL Injury. Given how old Shavon will be at the start of the 2025 NFL Season in addition to this long road to recovery, much like Benjamin Morrison but worse, will Shavon really be ready Day One?! Unlike Morrison whom I have a better grade on, I cannot say in good faith I trust Revel Jr to bounce back.


Best Man Coverage: Will Johnson

Best Zone Coverage: Travis Hunter

Best Run Support: Benjamin Morrison/Jahdae Barron

Best Blitzer: Jahdae Barron

Best Speed: Travis Hunter

Best COD (Change of Direction): Will Johnson.

Best Instincts: Travis Hunter

Best Technician: Will Johnson

Best Tackler: Benjamin Morrison/Travis Hunter

Best Slot: Jahdae Barron

Biggest Boom/Bust Potential: Shavon Revel Jr (Injury and age concerns)

Most Versatile: Jahdae Barron

Most Pro Ready: Travis Hunter


AQL's Favorite: Benjamin Morrison



Safeties:


1.) Malakai Starks

2.) Nick Emmanwori

3.) *** Jahdae Barron ***

4.) Xaiver Watts

5.) Kevin Winston Jr.


When the beginning of the 2024 College Football Season began, I had Malakai Starks initially rated as the highest Safety I have ever scouted. Surpassing the likes of pre injury Malik Hooker, Jamal Adams, Derwin James and my highest rated ever (still) in Minkah Fitzpatrick, Malakai had a lot to live up to. In 2024 though... in some ways he did but in other ways.. he let me down. Now, allow me to get on with the bad before I get with the good. For starters, his COD dipped from being elite in 2023 to great in 2024. That alone shouldn't alarm anyone.. but it did for me. Why?! With such exceptional range, one would expect him to have equally exceptional agility. His agility will no doubt be great but it will sadly fall short of the elite category. There is also is increased number of whiffs on tackling in 2024 compared to a season ago; 7 in 2024 compared to 3 in 2023. That said, he can play just about anywhere much like Jahdae Barron. Major differences?! One, Malakai didn't line up as an Outside CB nearly as much as I would have liked given his length is better than Barron's and two, Malakai's superior athleticism allows him to give DCs a greater degree of confidence at as Chess Piece than Jahdae does.

For Nick Emmanwori, I have heard some compare him to Derwin James. Allow me to be very blunt here; remove all comparisons now. People seriously underestimated how agile and quick Derwin was on tape during his time at Florida State and even in the NFL. Unlike Nick, Derwin can be used as a Slot CB or even an Outside CB. I would trust Nick as an Outside CB but definitely not as a Slot CB against some of the better or even the best slot based wideouts in the game. Same goes for the better Tight Ends to some of the best as well. In addition to Nick's lack of fluidity and agility in his hips also begets a limitation of range despite Nick being one of the fastest safeties in the class. Overall, in a run heavy defense, Nick is the best Run Stopper of all Defensive Backs. Never mind his size at 6'3, 225lbs either. His natural tackling ability coupled with his aggressive strike power will endear him to teams looking for a hammer/patrol cop in the middle.

Given how I have done Jahdae Barron already in the Corner section, there isn't much to address here for him as far as his safety based scouting report is. That said, one thing I will mention is that he technically can be a Free Safety but also potentially be one that is a Single High one. I kept saying potentially because to be such a player, one needs a truly special athletic skillset. Barron's COD is superb but his speed is only very good and not of great nor elite tier. That said, his tremendous coverage instincts and play recognition can allow him to play the position but only in limited snaps. Xaiver Watts is much of the same though more limited with his overall agility. What he lacks in agility though, he does make up for in both run support along with his abilities to play the slot in a pinch. He isn't suited as a Single High either but kinda of like Nick Emmanwori, Xaiver will definitely find a home for NFL Teams.... just not as many as Nick will find. Lastly, Kevin Winston Jr. is a run stuffing machine. Unlike the others, he is more limited by his overall agility and lack of play strength when going up against Tight Ends. Even before the injury, it was a major concern of mine.

Best Man Coverage: Malakai Starks/Jahdae Barron

Best Zone Coverage: Malakai Starks

Best Speed: Malakai Starks

Best Power: Nick Emmanwori

Best Tackler: Nick Emmanwori/Xaiver Watts

Best COD: Malakai Starks

Best Instincts: Malakai Starks

Best Slot: Malakai Starks/Jahdae Barron

Best Single High: Malakai Starks

Best Pure Safety (FS or SS): Malakai Starks

Best Strong Safety: Nick Emmanwori/Xaiver Watts

Biggest Boom/Bust Potential: Kevin Winston Jr (medicals)

Most Versatile: Malakai Starks

Most Pro Ready: Malakai Starks



AQL's Favorite: Malakai Starks



2025 NFL Draft Rankings By Position (POST SENIOR BOWL):


1.) Interior Defensive Lineman: No legendary singular talent to speak of but there is simply way too much talent and way too much depth at this position the likes of which I haven't seen since 2019. If this class shows out at the combine in the manner in which I think it can, I will place it as high as the legendary 2011 IDL Class. Do not undersell this group ladies and gentleman; this class is elite at worst.

2.) EDGE: Abdul Carter headlines this group with a very strong top half. Other talents like Mike Green, Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, Princely Umanmielen and even Kyle Kennard round out this group. The only reason they are not number one despite having arguably the best player is that the depth of the class falls off a bit after the Top 75.

3.) Cornerbacks: Same thing as the EDGE group. Travis Hunter headlines one of the strongest classes we have seen in some time. Trey Amos, Maxwell Hairston, Darien Porter, Azareye'h Thomas, Dorian Strong and even a former top flight CB in Denzel Burke give this group great depth at the top. Problem is, like the EDGE, the talent and depth drop off is big but instead of the Top 75, talent takes a nosedive after the Top 50.

4.) Running Backs: Again, same thing with the Corners but one major notable difference. Ashton Jeanty Jr will be a star instantly while Omarion Hampton and Quinshon Judkins will be rock solid bell cows. Beyond them though, a lot of scheme dependent players and too few singular scheme diverse players. However, these big three are more than a match for any other big three among all positional groups.

5.) Wide Receivers: Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka and Elic Ayomanor hard carry this group. There is very good depth leading up to the end of Day 2 but this group is arguably more scheme dependent than the Running Backs are! First time in a long time that the Wide Receivers are playing second fiddle to the Running Backs.

6.) Quarterbacks: Even with the likes of Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, this is easily the weakest QB Class since 2022. Only reason it doesn't score any worse is that there is a good amount of back ups available in this class much more so than in 2022. Thing though is these backups are going to be drafted, much, much earlier than they should.

7.) Offensive Tackle Class: Extremely top heavy with one in particular still having to answer for his length limitations. Should Will Campbell fail to make the benchmark, this class takes a massive hit.

8.) Safeties: Again, extremely top heavy here. That said, their best player is a massive heavy hitter in Malakai Starks. Nick Emmanwori is also great but I cannot place this class over the Offensive Tackles until more information about Will Campbell's measurables become available.

9.) Interior Offensive Lineman: Much better this time around... for the Guards anyways. As for the Centers?! For the first time ever, I only have one Center in the Top 75. His name?! Jared Wilson from the University of Georgia. Remember him well.

10.) Tight Ends: Moving upwards compared to a season ago. The depth is way better here than in 2024 but not good enough to move it past this spot. Outside of Colston Loveland and Tyler Warren, this class is lacking some serious bite both in talent and in depth.

11.) Off Ball Linebackers: Jihaad Campbell essentially carries this group by himself. After him, very, very scheme and/or situational based players.


That will do it for the Senior Bowl Edition of the Top Five Positional Rankings everyone! I do apologize I couldn't get this out sooner. Had a lot of IRL and Family Related matters I had to tidy up. However and thankfully, a lot of those major issues have been cleared up; clearing the way for me to complete this!!! Definitely excited to do this once again!

In addition, for those of you who may be wondering of the Top 32 Big Board, that is coming up next!!! Be on the lookout for it for I should have it done soon!

As always, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed! We shall get back together again for the Top Five Positional Rankings following the Conclusion of the NFL Combine!

Until then, this is AskQuestionsLater saying so long, farewell, stay safe and I will see you all next time!!!

 

One final note!!!


If you have any questions, comments or concerns, feel free to leave them down below!!! Really helps me out!!!

 

I'm disappointed in a lack of coverage for punters. We need something to do with our seventh round picks.

 

I know man! My bad!!


Thing is, during my final write up for this, the total amount of characters exceeded the sites limit; 50k. To add Specialists?! I'd need to greatly trim down each section accordingly; something I did try in the past but yielded more negative as a result than it did positive!


I do hope to streamline this in the future so that they can be added. As it stands though, specialists are becoming more and more specialized which limits my ability to proper scout them.

 

Damn man, I know you enjoy this and have done it for years, but that is a lot of work. I enjoyed your QB list, have no idea when or if the Steelers pick a QB this year, but as sparse as the selections are, like any position you have to do the work in scouting and take the plunge if you feel he is worth it. There have been a few click bait articles coming through how the team is high on Milroe. Have no idea if any of this is true, but I the comparison to Hurts has been made several times. The thing that Philly has done is build a tremendous O line and surround him with weapons. Omar/Andy may have a vision, but don't put the cart in front of the horse, and make damn sure you have the QB coach or any guy you bring in is going to struggle.

 

I wouldn't say that those articles are entirely unfounded. Given how both Tomlin and the FO were enamored with Justin Fields, there is definitely an interest in that area; QB Mobility I mean. That said, if this were truly the case, then Jaxson Dart would be a much better fit not just because he is mobile enough but his style of play is built from the ground up to be used in Arthur Smith's Offense.


RPOs and Play Action is where Jaxson Dart can truly shine. Arthur smith uses a lot of both. Now, as for teaching him the right ways to actually play the position?! I believe in Tom Arth but even then, it is going to take some time for Dart to get to the level of starter capable I believe he can reach. As for Milroe?!



As you and I have both implied, that is a multi year project; time the Steelers simply don't have. Nab someone like Dart, build around that and, should all go well, continue from there.

 

The more I see about him I think you are correct. The OSU guy has some intriguing qualities, but you wonder how much was the system and quality of players around him. He might be just what he is, and in the right system he may be a guy that actually does well, right now I do not think we are that team. Oh well, fun to speculate.

 

I don't think Will Howard is a classic case of right place at right time. His success at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State is more proof of that. Yes, he wasn't going to be as highly sought after at Kansas State but his overall skillset as a QB still would have had Scouts convinced he could become something more as a mid Day Three option prior to Ohio State. Now with the Ohio State Journey completed?! I expect him to climb a lot higher as the Draft rolls around; a draft in which this years of QBs are bad overall.


However, I ended up omitting Will Howard for teams like the Steelers not because he isn't a good QB but he simply doesn't fit the system Pittsburgh deploys. Rhythm timing based Offenses or namely, Offenses that employ a lot of West Coast principles will do him well. If anything, Miami should be on the lookout for him given Tua's questionable health.

 

I see some mocks have the Steelers taking Luther Burden at #21. Would you take him or one of the top DT at #21?

 

I would take Grant over Burden #21.

 

Luther Burden being at pick 21 means either teams are really investing in both the front seven along with both the OTs and IOLs or there is going to be a historic run on EDGEs and IDLs. No binaries here I'm afraid. This QB Class is largely to blame given how poor it is.


On the subject of positions, as I said, this WR Class is being hard carried by Burden III, Egbuka and Elic Ayomanor. If a team is in dire need of a WR 1, Burden is the best of the best of them. Unless he tests horribly at the combine, he is all but guaranteed a Top 15 lock at worst and Top 8 at best.


There are too few YAC Monsters in the NFL at present. Burden can easily be one of the best overall should he go to the right place.

 

andrew mukuba safety texas. was at clemson until last year. is a safety but is a guy that can play anywhere in the secondary. extremely versatile. could move to the slot as well. zone and man equally good. nice chess piece to consider.

 

This is where I'm at right now. Burden just hasn't wowed me on tape yet. He was productive for Missouri, but they designed a lot of plays to get him the ball and I just don't see an elite physical trait that offsets the limited route tree.

By contrast, a guy like Egbuka is extremely polished in route-running, run-blocking, finding ways to get open, etc. He doesn't have any one elite physical trait; he just does everything well. Savion Williams is a 6'5" athletic freak who was deployed in ways similar to Burton to just get the ball in his hands. So stunted receiver development and some concern over his hands at times, but elite burst, size, good playing strength.

Further, I like Grant's combination of size, strength, and athleticism. A Grant vs. Egbuka is a tougher call for me at this point.

 

Lol. No sooner do I bag on Burden a bit that I see how high you are on him.

I'm a little bearish on him. He's good, and I am interested how he performs at the combine, but I just haven't seen a real wow factor on tape yet.

And I'd definitely take McMillan over him, but that's partly influenced by where the Steelers are. They already have an X in Pickens, so they could exploit McMillan's proficiency in running short and intermediate routes, where his size advantage and YAC abilities would give opposing defenses fits.

 

All good.


For me, what Luther Burden III showcased during 2023 is why I was so high on him. His production definitely dipped this season for certain. That said, I am placing that a lot more on the lackluster QB and Play Calling situation at Mizzou than I would at LB III. Same goes for Armand Membou as well.



As for T Mac?! Fair enough. I just don't see him as a good option for an RPO/Play Action Offense. A rhythm timing based Offense or even a smashmouth based Offense with West Coast concepts would be an area where he truly can shine. His best form of damage lies in the MOF of the intermediate range. He can go deep but shouldn't be relied upon too much in that area. YAC is also an area I didn't find myself particularly impressed either.


Again though, who knows?! Remember that this is the Senior Bowl Edition. We still have the Combine coming up. If he can clear some of those agility and flexibility concerns at the combine, that will definitely change my opinion of him.

 

Yep, like I said upthread, these are just my takes thus far.

I think you're describing more than you might think of things in Smith's offense that would pair well with McMillan. I'm not hung up on it though, I expect him to be gone long before the Steelers are on the clock.

I'll have to check out more of Burden's 2023 film. Took a quick look at one and it showed a little better what he can do. Like I said, I think he's good, he had the production. I just like to see what the player does that makes them special, especially in the first round.

 

Can Burden play the Y? Everything I've read about him and even Emeka screams slot and we're quite full at slot receiver. If we go WR at 21, I'd much prefer someone like Golden or trade dahn 5 or 6 slots and grab Tre Harris or Isiah Bond.

 

Burden can play any of the Receiving spots without question. The major question that he will have to answer is some small consistency issues that appeared on tape. As I said though, any Offense will be more than glad to have him.

 

I am probably paying attention to the top RB's more than any position in the draft. The FA period has a lot to say about what direction we will need to go in the draft, but RB is the only position that HAS to be addressed via the draft. I don't see us spending money on a FA RB.

RB is going to be heavily influenced by the combine I think. If Jeanty runs a bit slow, I actually think there is a shot he falls back into the 15-19 range (we should seriously consider trading up for him if that is the case). Guys like Treyveon Henderson can make themselves a lot of money running sub-4.4 forty's.

My list would be a bit different, but a lot of the same players are still up there.

In play for pick 21
1. Ashton Jeanty - honestly I think he will be gone by then, but on the off chance he slips... you have to think that a trade up of about 2-3 picks would be worth it.
2. Treyveon Henderson - Immediate 3 down player in the NFL. High end speed, dangerous in space, and not afraid to go inbetween the tackles. Polished in the passing game and a great blocker. Never has to come off the field. On top of it all, he is a great locker room guy. There's a good chance Henderson would be BPA on my list at 21 outside of something weird happening and someone falling far in the draft. These are the only two guys worth a first round pick in the class IMO, and I would be ecstatic to walk away with either of them at the end of the first day of the draft.

In play for round 2
3. Quinshon Judkins - Judkins would be an immediate impact 2 down player with the ability to develop into a 3 down player. Explosive player, runs with power, has some nice moves for a guy his size too. Good prospect.
4. Omarion Hampton - Hampton is fairly similar to Judkins. Big guys, move well, get to top speed very quickly. I think both these guys project to be solid NFL players with upside. I am not sure either make it to 52, but early to mid 2nd seems right.
5. Kaleb Johnson - Definitely more of a North/South straight line runner. Good vision, excellent balance. Not sure his ceiling is as high as Judkins or Hampton, but he's a safe bet to be a solid back.

I really like Jordan James too. Might be a DeAngelo Williams type guy. Solid all around player. Sampson probably is a tandem back, and not really the type of player we should be looking for IMO.

There are going to be a lot of backs taken in rounds 2 and 3, and it really is going to come down to team preference as to which player goes in what order. I think there are a lot of guys that can be impact players, and I think it is imperative that we snag one.

 

First off, Nolen is overrated and will get overdrafted. I'd put Omar Norman-Lott in the top 5 DTs. He'll be a steal on day 2 for some lucky team. Would love to see it be the steelers.

 

I'd take Burden all day long. Take DT in rd 2.

 

Missouri's QB Brady Cook was banged up this year, which might be factor in Burden's production. I have more questions of whether the Steelers can take advantage of Burden's skillset with scheme and play design, than I do Burden himself. Egbuka had the better season, but he also had the better QB play.

 

Fair enough on Nolen.


I do agree he does possess some bust potential but there is simply too much boom potential for me to label him as such imo. I believe many of the issues he has on tape regarding Run Defense are attributed to him over thinking the more finite points of aspects such as gap integrity and not being able to follow the flow of the running plays as they happen. For me, that is something that can easily be solved via coaching.


Everything else about Nolen though?! A lot of what he puts on tape is simply both talent and athletic ability; two things that are quite rare for a man hos size. That said and, as you and I have discussed months ago, Omar Norman-Lott can potentially hear his name called in Round One.


Between me and you, I wouldn't mind selecting him for he does possess 1st Round talent.