On August 30, 2014, the Florida State Seminoles squared off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the Advocare Classic. The result? A hard-fought 37-31 victory for the top-ranked Seminoles. The game within the game featured two future NFL All-Pros matching up at different positions then they would eventually star at in the NFL. At the time, current Kansas City WR Tyreek Hill was a running back/return specialist and Los Angeles Rams CB Jalen Ramsey was starring in a safety/nickel back role. In what proved to be a precursor for the future, Hill tallied an incredible total of 278 all-purpose yards. Ramsey contributed 12 tackles and 1/2 tackle for loss, while displaying outstanding agility and body control. We go inside one of college football’s best matchups of the past decade.
Hill (No. 24 pictured) was used in a myriad of ways during the matchup with the Seminoles, but Ramsey’s responsibilities (No. 8 covering Hill out of the backfield) varied quite a bit during the day as well.
Notable Pick: The pick of Simmons has major significance because the Cardinals drafted former Temple linebacker Haason Reddick just three seasons ago. DC Vance Joseph has to move Simmons around, but will it be natural within his defensive structure?
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (8)
Isaiah Simmons
6’4 238 LB-Clemson
4/1st Round
Simmons is clearly one of the more talented defenders to come into the league in quite some time. The consensus first-team All-American seems intent on wanting to play linebacker at the next level.
3 (72)
Josh Jones
6’5 311 OT-Houston
71/2nd Round
After just an okay junior campaign, the first-team All-AAC tackle took his game to another level in 2019. It easily could have resulted in him going off the board much earlier than 72nd.
4 (114)
Leki Fotu
6’5 327 DT-Utah
46/2nd Round
Fotu’s value should not be diminished in today’s pass-happy NFL. He is still an important entity and routinely handled double teams in school.
4 (131)
Rashard Lawrence II
6’2 308 DT-LSU
274/4th Round
Lawrence is a heavy-handed player who will surprise on occasion with his snap count reactions. His balance on line games proved to be up-and-down in the film viewed.
6 (202)
Evan Weaver
6’2 237 LB-California
102/3rd Round
Arguably the most active collegiate linebacker in the country the last two years, Weaver slipped because there are questions about his ability to transition into a three-down linebacker.
Benjamin can catch, run in-between the tackles bigger than his size and he’s slippery. It was a surprise that he lasted until Round 7.
Despite being lauded for his ability to hold the point of attack, new Arizona Cardinals DT Leki Fotu tallied 17 tackles for loss over the last three seasons, including 8 TFLs in 2019.
Seattle Seahawks
Notable Pick: The Seahawks have traditionally found a way to involve the tight end and Parkinson’s arrival means that trend will continue. He expands the team’s Red Zone capability while also extending the seams of the field.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (27)
Jordyn Brooks
6’1 240 LB-Texas Tech
116/3rd Round
Brooks is fast, long and generally at his best going forward. He became the team’s first All-American LB since former Red Raider and NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Zach Thomas.
2 (48)
Darrell Taylor
6’4 253 DE-OLB Alabama
185/4th Round
Taylor had a knack for punching balls loose in school (six forced fumbles) and played two-to-three different spots for the Vols. He was equally effective from a two-point or three-point stance.
3 (69)
Damien Lewis
6’2 327 OG-LSU
60/2nd Round
Lewis provides options at any of the three interior line spots. His heavy nature belies his movement skills. The former junior college All-American has to improve picking up line games.
4 (133)
Colby Parkinson
6’7 252 TE-Stanford
191/4th Round
Parkinson (see above) finished his career averaging 13.5 yards per reception with 12 touchdowns.
4 (144)
DeeJay Dallas
5’10 217 All-purpose-Miami (Fla.)
38/2nd Round
Dallas -a former WR for the Hurricanes- averaged 17 yards per punt return in 2018. He is excellent in the screen game and has positive contact balance.
5 (148)
Alton Robinson
6’3 264 DE-Syracuse
169/4th Round
Robinson did not match his breakout junior year with a sparkling senior campaign. Nevertheless, his ability to generate speed-to-power will make him a challenge for offensive tackles.
6 (214)
Freddie Swain
6’0 199 WR-Florida
176/4th Round
Swain carries his equipment on game day and provides savvy as a slot receiver. In addition -particularly at this point in the draft- his value comes on special teams, where he was solid as a punt returner.
7 (251)
Stephen Sullivan
6’5 245 TE-LSU
386/5th Round
Sullivan -a former four-star recruit at WR- was satisfactory at that position in school. He is a flex option either on the outside or in the slot.
Lewis’ upper body strength was a big factor in the success of LSU’s offense in 2019. He can add some punch to the Seahawks offense in what will continue to be a physical running game.
San Francisco 49ers
Notable Pick: Of the draft’s first three selections, McKivitz will be in the battle for a roster spot with the 49ers depth at tackle. He has improved as a run blocker, but his ability to slide down to guard, if necessary, will likely determine his fate. The fact that NFL teams can now have three extra offensive linemen helps his charge.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (14)
Javon Kinlaw
6’5 324 DT-South Carolina
5/1st Round
Kinlaw was an effective player in school but it could be argued that he can give even more. His quickness is supplemented by heavy hands. His fit into the 49ers defensive line rotation should be something to monitor in 2020…and beyond.
1 (25)
Brandon Aiyuk
6’0 205 WR-Arizona State
20/2nd Round
Aiyuk got more opportunities as a featured receiver in 2019 but it did not take away from his impact in the return game. The positive aspect of this draft pick is that he has yet to fully tap his vast upside at the receiver spot.
5 (153)
Colton McKivitz
OT-West Virginia
204/4th Round
McKivitz was a durable 47-game starter in school. He added positive play strength as he went along. He fits the profile the 49ers seek in their tackles.
6 (190)
Charlie Woerner
6’5 244 TE-Georgia
427/5th Round
One of the top recruits in the Class of 2016 when he came out of Rabun County HS (Ga.), Woerner had limited opportunities in school. He still flashed all of the skills that made him a four-star recruit at the prep level when given his opportunities. Very good blocker on the move
7 (217)
Jauan Jennings
6’3 215 WR-Tennessee
331/5th Round
Jennings dealt with injuries, suspensions and inconsistency but, when wired, he was one of the nation’s most competitive players. His run after the catch ability and field speed eases concern over average workout testing numbers.
San Francisco 49ers seventh-round pick Jauan Jennings has been a tough player to tackle since arriving in Knoxville. He averaged 16.4 yards per reception in 2019 (8 TDs).
Los Angeles Rams
Notable Pick: The Rams got to a Super Bowl on the strength of former PK Greg Zuerlein. He came from a small school and now the team will give Sloman a look late in the draft. The former Redhawk took his game to another level in 2019.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
2 (52)
Cam Akers
5’10 217 RB-FSU
58/2nd Round
The former five-star recruit out of Mississippi averaged just under five yards per carry in school but was effective as a runner, receiver and passer during his three-year run in Tallahassee. Akers is stronger than his frame suggests.
2 (57)
Van Jefferson
6’1 197 WR-Florida, Ole Miss
17/2nd Round
Jefferson was productive at two different stops in the SEC due to his combination of body control and football intelligence. Some of his press-man releases have been unorthodox, yet sudden and effective.
3 (84)
Terrell Lewis
6’5 258 OLB-Alabama
48/2nd Round
It would have been interesting to see how Lewis’ career would have gone had he not been sidelined by injury in two consecutive seasons. He uses 83 1/2-inch wingspan to pole OTs back into the lap of QBs. Can he stay healthy?
3 (104)
Terrell Burgess
6’0 202 DB-Utah
285/4th Round
Burgess’ movement skills gives the team options with him as a nickel, outside cornerback or safety. He largely was drafted off of one productive year, but his skills translate to the next level.
4 (136)
Brycen Hopkins
6’4 245 TE-Purdue
135/3rd Round
Hopkins had some issues with the occasional concentration lapse, but the Big Ten’s Kwallick-Clark TE of the Year in 2019 averaged 17 yards per reception as a junior (2018). his speed and ability to stretch the seams of the field adds yet another layer to the Rams attack.
6 (199)
Jordan Fuller
6’2 203 S-Ohio State
279/4th Round
Fuller generally played a sound game in school. His movement skills for a taller safety were substantiated by some of the tough coverage assignments Ohio State gave him early in his career.
Johnston, pictured, led the Bears with 99 tackles in 2018. Before going down to injury in 2019, he had 58 tackles, 2.5 QB sacks, 8 TFLs, one interception and 5 PBUs.
7 (234)
Clay Johnston
6’0 229 LB-Baylor
301/5th Round
Johnston’s impressive start to the 2019 season was upended by a midseason knee injury. Prior to the injury, he had already posted four double-digit tackle games.
7 (248)
Sam Sloman
5’8 207 PK-Miami (OH.)
586/7th Round
Sloman connected on 87-percent of his field goals in school, but it was his senior year uptick in range that caught the eyes of scouts. Prior to 2018 he was not as effective as a kickoff specialist. Over the last two years, he posted a 63-percent touchback percentage on kickoffs.
7 (250)
Tremayne Anchrum
6’2 314 OL-Clemson
241/4th Round
For a player who operated exclusively on the edge in school, Anchrum was fairly impressive turning out the opposition on designed runs to his side. In pass protection (either outside or inside), he will have to get better at handling inside movement.
Notable picks: Deguara showed patience setting up his routes, good hand-eye coordination and improved blocking skills in 2019. While not a burner, he plays fast and brings toughness to the table. He was a solid kickoff cover guy early in his Bearcats career.
Love’s playing style (VIDEO) has some similarities to starting QB Aaron Rodgers. Using his eyes with more effectiveness to maneuver defenders should be on the top of his to-do list.
2 (62)
A.J. Dillon
6’1 247 RB-Boston College
64/2nd Round
Dillon’s physical prowess is defined by upper and lower body power. He is patient when following his pullers on power schemes (either inside or outside). Can he be a factor in pass protection? Will he even need to be with Aaron Jones in the mix?
At the prep level, Deguara caught 24 TDs as a senior. This past season, he led the Bearcats with 7 receiving TDs as a flex/H-back option. He improved every year as an on the move blocker.
5 (175)
Kamal Martin
6’3 240 LB-Minnesota
423/5th Round
The former all-state QB makes up for a relatively high playing disposition with good feet. Eliminating some of the wasted motion gives him a better chance to earn a spot as a special team contributor/backup.
6 (208)
Jake Hanson
6’4 303 OC-Oregon
454/6th Round
Hanson -a former DL with aggression- started 48 games in school. He was an effective communicator in the pre-snap when it came to line games and potential twists. Can snap-and-pull in confined areas.
6 (209)
Simon Stepaniak
6’4 321 OG-Indiana
434/6th Round
Stepaniak-who carries 10 3/8″ hands- was a 31-game starter in school and grappler at the OG spot.
7 (236)
Vernon Scott
6’2 205 DB-TCU
N/A
Scott made a statement about his film study when he recognized a bunch formation against Oklahoma on his lone career interception returned for a score. His tackling has been hit-or-miss (see Texas ’19).
Dillon (No. 2 pictured) powered his way behind a stout offensive line for three years. Boston College finished eighth nationally in rushing yards per game in 2019.
7 (242)
Jonathan Garvin
6’4 263 DE-OLB-Miami (Fla.)
219/ 4th Round
The smooth DE gained nearly 45 pounds in school and it didn’t really rob him of much short-area burst. He slips offensive tackles and defeats blockers in the run game, but he has to generate a go-to move to win in the NFL.
Chicago Bears
Notable Pick: The selection of Kmet means the Bears can now use a number of two tight end formations with both he and free agent signee Jimmy Graham. It is a clear sign that the team is intent on attacking the middle of the field in 2020.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
2 (43)
Cole Kmet
6’6 262 TE-Notre Dame
53/2nd Round
The former left-handed closer on the baseball team handled multiple roles for the Fighting Irish. He can be effective on the move as an H-back or in-line as a tight end.
2 (50)
Jaylon Johnson
6’0 195 CB-Utah
73/2nd Round
Johnson finished his career with seven interceptions (165 yards, 2 TDs) and 21 pass breakups.
Gipson’s ability to play the run from the four-technique position often took away pass rush opportunities. In that facet (pass rushing), he has to become a better bender overall.
5 (163)
Kindle Vildor
5’10 191 CB-Georgia Southern
54/2nd Round
Vildor was a team leader and excellent tackler while at Georgia Southern. He impressed in the postseason with 4.44 speed and an 11’1″ broad jump.
5 (173)
Darnell Mooney
5’10 176 WR-Tulane
295/4th Round
Mooney has the skill-set to run routes outside the numbers or in the slot. He has very good run after the catch skill.
Hambright impressed protecting the blindside for quarterback Steven Montez as a senior in 2019 but largely was unavailable for Oklahoma State in 2018 due to a high ankle sprain.
7 (227)
Lachavious Simmons
6’5 290 OT-Tennessee State
N/A
Simmons’ aggressiveness getting off the ball as a left guard overcame the occasional balance issue. the first-team All-OVC selection has seen time at LG, RG and LT.
Minnesota Vikings
Notable pick: The number of picks could be considered what is notable. One pick of particular interest, however, is Metullus. During the pre-draft process, he seemed to go largely undervalued and the Vikings have traditionally struck gold with late round or free agent pickups after draft.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (22)
Justin Jefferson
6’1 202 WR-LSU
32/2nd Round
Jefferson was already a good player in 2018, but his confidence soared in 2019. He enters the NFL believing no one can guard him in one-on-one situations.
1 (31)
Jeff Gladney
5’10 191 CB-TCU
55/2nd Round
Gladney’s competitiveness made him a fiery contributor for a Gary Patterson defense that requires a lot of man coverage from its cornerbacks. The Horned Frogs led the Big 12 in pass defense in each of the last three seasons. Gladney was a big reason why.
2 (58)
Ezra Cleveland
6’6 300 OT-Boise State
88/2nd Round
Cleveland is smooth, experienced and efficient with his footwork in pass protection. Can he maintain a consistent lockout? The former high school wrestler enjoys tying up defenders, but needs to improve his initial pop as a run blocker.
3 (89)
Cameron Dantzler
6’2 188 CB-Mississippi State
90/3rd Round
Dantzler’s workouts didn’t reflect his instincts, timing and willingness to tackle. In Minnesota, the team will challenge him to trust his technique and he should be able to earn a role in nickel and dime packages as a rookie.
4 (117)
D.J. Wonnum
6’5 258 DE-South Carolina
252/4th Round
After a breakout sophomore campaign, Wonnum’s sack production diminished in 2018 due to injury (ankle). He began to regain his form in 2019.
4 (130)
James Lynch
6’4 289 DL-Baylor
57/2nd Round
The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year played up-and-down the Bears defensive front in school. Lynch finished his career with 33.5 TFLs, 7 PBUs and three blocked kicks.
4 (132)
Troy Dye
6’3 231 LB-Baylor
129/3rd Round
Dye’s teammates voted him the team’s defensive MVP as a rookie and it was a sign of things to come. Although angular by nature, Dye has unique eye speed, flexibility and field speed.
5 (169)
Harrison Hand
5’11 197 CB-Temple, Baylor
218/4th Round
Hand has good size, toughness and footwork. Technically, he is a work in progress (see UCF ’19). With that said, he brings capability in either man or zone coverage.
5 (176)
K.J. Osborn
6’0 205 WR-Miami (Fla.), Buffalo
246/4th Round
Osborn was arguably the Bulls best receiver in 2018 despite the presence of All-MAC receiver Anthony Johnson. The narrative largely remained the same at Miami (Fla.) as a grad transfer after the disappearing act of Jeff Thomas.
6 (203)
Blake Brandel
6’6 302 OT-Oregon State
529/6th Round
Brandel -a 48-game starter in school at both tackle spots- made most of his starts on the left side of the line (39). He has 10 3/8″ hands, 33 1/4″ arms and an 80 1/8″ wingspan.
6 (205)
Josh Metullus
5’11 210 S-Michigan
153/3rd Round
Metullus -a 38-game starter in school- is smart, communicates well and can get off of the hash marks. Michigan challenges all of its defensive backs in man coverage. He has shown aggressiveness as a tackler.
Michigan State’s Kenny Willekes, pictured, finished his career with 26.5 quarterback sacks and 51 tackles for loss.
Willekes -the 2019 Burlsworth Trophy Award winner- was the rare dominant former walk-on. He plays low enough, handles tight ends in the run game and times his snap count reactions. Will his leverage allow him to overcome his length deficiencies?
Stanley has all of the physical tools, but his work in the pre-snap phase of the game identifying fronts often allowed him to make checks at the line of scrimmage in the run game. He may have helped himself by playing in a postseason all-star game.
7 (249)
Brian Cole II
6’2 213 S-Mississippi State, Michigan
181/4th Round
Cole II -a one-year starter- timed his blitzes (off the slot or from the edge), covered the slot and played a LB-type position for DC Bob Shoop and the Bulldogs. The former WR also returned kicks in school.
7 (253)
Kyle Hinton
6’2 296 OG-Washburn
616/7th Round
Hinton’s Pro Day performance (4.9 40-yd, 34 1/2″ VJ) subsidized a decent showing during the 2020 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. During school, he showed the ability to get out and hit the occasional moving target.
Detroit Lions
Notable pick: The Lions have been searching for a Top 10 running back it seems like for the entire Matthew Stafford-era in Detroit. Can Swift be more than just a change of pace for Kerryon Johnson? If so, their running game could become a team strength as opposed to question mark.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (3)
Jeff Okudah
6’1 205 CB-Ohio State
11/1st Round
Okudah will be challenged in man-to-man coverage and that should fit his skill-set. The former high school safety brings an assertive nature similar to the last Lions cornerback taken in the Top 5 in the first round, Bryant Westbrook (1997 NFL Draft).
Okwara stood up, played both DE spots in school and even dropped into coverage effectively out of a two-point stance (see Michigan ’18). He has contributed effectively on the field goal block team.
3 (75)
Jonah Jackson
6’3 306 OG-Ohio State, Rutgers
225/4th Round
Jackson has started at right guard, center and left guard. Before arriving at Ohio State, he was a team captain at Rutgers. The criminal justice major plays with heavy hands and takes good angles in the run game, particularly on combination blocks.
4 (121)
Logan Stenberg
6’6 317 OG-Kentucky
110/4th Round
Stenberg -despite his height- latches LBs on the second level. He runs his feet on angle blocks and uses a solid skip-pull technique in confined areas. He has starting potential.
5 (166)
Quintez Cephus
6’1 202 WR-Wisconsin
130/3rd Round
Cephus overcomes small hands with confidence catching the ball, solid weight distribution and suddenness. We feel he has room to grow in either the slot or on the outside.
5 (172)
Jason Huntley
5’8 182 All-purpose-New Mexico State
385/5th Round
Electricity is the name of the game for Huntley in both the return game and as an all-purpose specialist. He can become even more effective with less touches, as he was in 2017 while playing with Larry Rose III.
6 (197)
John Penisini
6’2 318 DT-Utah
425/5th Round
Strong DL capable of slanting and spiking. The former Ute is satisfactory holding the point vs. double teams.
7 (235)
Jason Cornell
6’3 284 (E) DL-Ohio State
N/A
Cornell enjoyed a breakout season in 2019 with 4 QB sacks and 6.5 TFLs. He has played both DE and DT in school, and stood out in the 2019 CFP national semifinal.
Detroit Lions second-round pick D’Andre Swift averaged 6.6 yards per carry during his career at Georgia.
Notable picks: With the deflection of former starter Byron Jones, the team went with a player who contains similar length in Diggs. He is certainly more of a ballhawk, but can he provide the consistency in coverage that Jones gave them over a two-year period. It will be worth monitoring the development of Robinson II. His profile may actually be closer to Jones’ than Diggs.
Lamb has all of the requisite tools to win with both savvy and quickness as a route runner. He has a solid set of tools to be a complement within the Dallas passing game initially. We expect him to see some time in the slot.
2 (51)
Trevon Diggs
6’1 205 CB-Alabama
84/2nd Round
Diggs brings more than NFL bloodlines to the table. He is aggressive getting his hands on WRs at the line of scrimmage. Finding a balance in that aggression and bringing it to run support will ramp up his development.
3 (82)
Neville Gallimore
6’2 304 DT-Oklahoma
143/3rd Round
Gallimore had some issues with balance in school and that is probably why he lasted until this spot in the draft. For a player with his level of quickness and power, it was a bit surprising that he didn’t make more plays in school.
4 (123)
Reggie Robinson II
6’1 205 CB-Tulsa
93/3rd Round
Robinson II didn’t get the ink of some of the other big CBs in this year’s draft and maybe that should not come as a surprise. He has always been competitive in coverage and finished better in 2019.
4 (146)
Tyler Biadasz
6’4 314 OC-Wisconsin
59/2nd Round
Biadasz was not a dominator in school but he was assignment-sound. The former prep level baseball player led an offensive line that was ravaged by graduation from 2018 and did so admirably.
Due to sub-standard edge rusher workout times Anae fell in the draft. This came after a dominant Senior Bowl showing that showcased his feel for getting off the ball.
DiNucci’s moxie may have influenced this selection. The former Pitt Panther quietly was a couple of inches away from leading the Dukes to a national championship in 2019.
Utah’s Bradlee Anae (No. 6 pictured) forces a fumble versus Northwestern running back Isaiah Bowser (No. 25 picutred) in the fourth quarter. He finished 2018 with 51 tackles, eight quarterback sacks, 15.5 tackles for losses, two forced fumbles and three pass break-ups. The Cowboys selected Anae in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft (179th overall).
New York Giants
Notable pick: The team would be satisfied if Holmes can come in and lock down a nickel role within their scheme. The team has quietly assembled enough size on the edges, so it will be imperative for him to learn the various roles of an inside position while also contributing on special teams.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (4)
Andrew Thomas
6’5 317 OT-Georgia
6/1st Round
Thomas has the occasional top-heavy look but he remains relatively consistent establishing a lockout on the perimeter. He won’t be able to get by with relatively in the NFL and his overall
2 (40)
Xavier McKinney
6’0 201 S-Alabama
41/2nd Round
McKinney will be able to play a variety of roles for the Giants just like he did with the Crimson Tide. His best characteristic comes from his pre-snap cognitive ability in diagnosing the opposition’s intentions.
3 (71)
Matt Peart
6’5 312 OT-UConn
72/2nd Round
Peart is by no means a finished product, but that doesn’t mean starting is out of the question. He is most comfortable at RT, but he has started on both sides of the OL in school.
4 (110)
Darnay Holmes
5’10 195 CB-UCLA
112/3rd Round
Holmes lack of width (69-inch wingspan) hurt his cause and forced him to fall. Penalties were a bit of an issue in 2019 but he found a way to compete week-to-week.
You will not find many arguments surrounding Lemieux’s work ethic and determination. He was a consistent presence at OG for the Ducks over a four-year period. He finished his career with 52 consecutive starts.
6 (183)
Cam Brown
6’5 233 LB-Penn State
210/4th Round
Brown has been used to run up the seams with TEs, cover down over the slot and off the edge as an occasional rush artist. He seemed to be most comfortable in school filtering back inside from an overhang LB spot.
New York Giants first-round pick Andrew Thomas (No. 71 pictured) started at both right and left tackle for the ‘Dawgs during his three-year stay in Athens.
Coughlin finished his career with 22 QB sacks and 40 TFLs. When you combine that with his 4.57 speed, then the team may have gotten a core special teams contributor. He starred on the kickoff team way back in 2016 (see Holiday Bowl).
7 (238)
Tremari “T.J.” Brunson
6’1 230 LB-South Carolina
392/5th Round
Brunson may not completely fit the bill in terms of size, but he does play bigger than his measurements. He had some lower body extremity issues in school, but he appeared in 49 games (283 tackles, 21 TFLs).
7 (247)
Chris Williamson
6’0 205 NB/S-Minnesota, Florida
421/5th Round
Williamson was often tasked with covering fast slot WRs one-on-one and held his own. Hand placement is an issue but his work as a blitzer shows promise. The former Florida Gator should compete favorably in training camp.
7 (255)
Tae Crowder
6’3 235 (E) LB-Georgia
463/6th Round
Crowder showed time-and-time again that he is capable of chasing plays down laterally. He leaves some tackle opportunities on the field because he does not always get his head across the bow of the opponent.
Philadelphia Eagles
Notable pick: Reagor has a role to fill in the team’s offense as the Wild Card type of player. If he can execute a variety of different responsibilities, then the Eagles will be able to use his elusive skill set to maximize one-on-one matchups on a down-to-down basis.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (21)
Jalen Reagor
5’11 205 All-purpose-TCU
49/2nd Round
Reagor simply needs to find his way as a route runner to take advantage of his outstanding physical tools. He runs well after the catch, tracks the ball down the field and makes defenders miss in space.
Hurts earned kudos at both collegiate stops for his leadership, poise and overall strength. It would not be a shock to see him involved in a number of packages as a rookie.
3 (103)
Davion Taylor
6’0 224 LB-Colorado
225/4th Round
The Pac-12 100-meter sprinter runs in the 4.4s, closes ground on routes in front of him and actually finds a way to be active week-to-week. He simply needs more repetitions. We think he has special teams core (all four teams) potential at the next level. The team will likely incorporate him into some of its nickel/dime packages.
Wallace didn’t always finish interception opportunities in school, but he did often put himself into good position in one-on-one situations. His ability to time his entries in the run game was subsidized by consistent one-on-one coverage in the slot.
4 (145)
Jack Driscoll
6’5 307 OT-Auburn, UMass
221/4th Round
Driscoll continued to get better during school and his footwork was an area of focus. Now he needs to concentrate on gaining more core strength to handle speed-to-power in the NFL. This will be the case at either OG or OT, where he hopes to win a seventh or eighth role in 2020.
Hightower continued to improve every year in school but finally put it all together in 2019. For a team that went into the draft wanting to add speed at WR, Hightower has some capabilities.
Bradley has some footwork issues to clean up at the exchange LB spot. However, he will add plenty of speed to a defense and special teams unit that values quality backups.
6 (200)
Quez Watkins
6’0 185 WR-Southern Miss
124/3rd Round
Speed is the name of the game in the pass-happy NFL, and Watkins brings plenty of it to the table. He seemed to build to an even different top gear with the ball in his hands on quick RPO slants and posts. Now he needs to work on getting off of press coverage.
Philadelphia Eagles sixth-round pick Quez Watkins concluded his impressive three-year run at Southern Miss by averaged 18.2 yards per reception as a junior (1,145 yards, 6 TDs).
Tega Wanogho did not have a chance to show off his impressive tools in the postseason. At this point in the process, the team could afford to take a flyer on a player who may not reach his peak for another three-year period.
Toohill is a fast, athletic long LB with enough speed to play multiple spots. Coverage is a question mark, as is his ability to transfer speed-to-power as a pass rusher.
Washington Redskins
Notable pick: Although the Redskins have a number of different types of receivers on its roster, there is no one other than Cam Sims that contains Gandy-Golden’s size. If he can transition effectively to the NFL, it could open up the team’s Red Zone offense.
The Redskins are hoping that Young turns into not only a transformational player but that he can also open up possibilities for the talented Montez Sweat and Ryan Kerrigan on the other side. He may see time at DT on third downs.
3 (66)
Antonio Gibson
6’0 223 All-Purpose-Memphis
25/2nd Round
There simply aren’t players with the size/speed quotient that Gibson brings to the table at 228 pounds. It would not be a shock to see the team use im in the backfield as a dot RB, slot WR or even outside receiver. The all-purpose dynamo produced without a lot of touches in school.
4 (108)
Saahdiq Charles
6’4 303 OT-LSU
189/4th Round
Charles bends, latches and slides effectively. What he hasn’t been able to do is stay on the field. Whether it was a suspension, injury or otherwise, the former Tiger was not dependable week-to-week. Perhaps the NFL opportunity will change his tunes.
4 (142)
Antonio Gandy-Golden
6’4 223 WR-Liberty
95/3rd Round
Gandy-Golden didn’t necessarily perform as well during the testing portion of the postseason as he did on the field. It will not come as a shock if he develops into the team’s primary Red Zone threat early in his career.
5 (156)
Keith Ismael
6’3 309 OC-San Diego State
113/3rd Round
Ismael -a junior-entry- probably would have not gone much higher in next year’s draft and that may have influenced his decision to come out early. His quickness (and experience at three positions) will add another layer to the Redskins running game.
5 (162)
Khaleke Hudson
5’11 224 S/LB-Michigan
263/4th Round
Hudson may have gotten dinged because he doesn’t really have a true position at the next level. At least, not yet. We think he can be a sub-package LB with enough zone capability to cover the flats and beyond.
Washington Redskins fifth-round draft pick Khaleke Hudson blocked five kicks during his career at Michigan.
7 (216)
Kamren Curl
6’1 206 S-Arkansas
150/3rd Round
Curl – a former cornerback- plays faster on the field than he times in T-shirts and shorts. He reacts to what he sees on the football field and plays with anticipation.
7 (226)
James Smith-Williams
6’3 265 DE-NC State
310/5th Round
Smith-Williams was probably as accomplished off the field as he was on it. A subpar senior year caused the workout warrior to slip in the draft, but injuries were probably more of the cause. However, Ron Rivera has had success with these types of DL (see Mario Addison) in the past.
Notable pick: Gross-Matos has a chance to benefit from one-on-one opportunities as the Panthers continue to diversify its defensive front. He and 2019 first-round pick Brian Burns could become bookends on the outside edges.
Brown won’t necessarily provide an immediate pass rush upgrade over the since-departed Gerald McCoy. He will, however, provide immediate returns as a defender who will require double teams at nearly 330 pounds. His range belies that of a player in his weight class.
2 (38)
Yetur Gross-Matos
DE-Penn State
14/2nd Round
Gross-Matos is young and probably hasn’t come close to tapping his unlimited potential. For him to do, he has to improve affecting the three-step passing game once his pass rush has been stymied.
2 (64)
Jeremy Chinn
6’3 221 DB-Southern Illinois
39/2nd Round
Chinn moved around in school but his value can come as a multi-purpose safety. He has the skills to cover tight ends. His most impressive characteristic is the ability to close from the inside-out on out-breaking patterns. At 221 pounds, he has to get better at not settling his feet in one-on-one coverage.
4 (113)
Troy Pride, Jr.
6’2 202 CB-Notre Dame
201/4th Round
Pride closes routes from the outside-in, runs extremely well and is frequently in good position. The next step involves finishing in those moments.
5 (152)
Kenny Robinson
6’2 202 S-West Virginia
N/A
Robinson is another safety with special teams value and above average range. His biggest knock at West Virginia was the occasional missed one-on-one tackle, something he largely improved as a St. Louis Battlehawk in the XFL.
6 (184)
Brayvion Roy
6’1 333 DT-Baylor
241/4th Round
Roy was often lauded by the Baylor coaching staff (now in Carolina) for his pure power. The former Bear is tough to move but his lack of length caused him to fall to Day 3 of the draft process.
7 (221)
Stantley Thomas-Oliver III
6’0 192 CB-FIU
167/3rd Round
We think Thomas-Oliver III has an outside shot of making the team because of his upside in man coverage. The former WR caught 35 passes for 486 yards in 2016 for FIU.
Atlanta Falcons
Notable picks: For the Falcons to spend a seventh-round pick on Hofrichter underscores the importance of the kicking game. Hofrichter’s strong leg can travel outside, but he tallied 72 punts of 50-plus yards in school. Can he handle kickoff duties?
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (16)
A.J. Terrell
6’1 195 CB-Clemson
34/2nd Round
Terrell made his mark at Clemson by playing a large majority of man coverage. Although he gave up some plays, his short memory makes him a fit at the position.
Davidson can basically play any of the four defensive line spots but may project as a legitimate three-technique on third downs. His work off the edge has been very good in the run game and pedestrian as a pass rusher.
3 (78)
Matt Hennessy
6’4 302 OC-Temple
52/2nd Round
Hennessy has outstanding lateral agility, average pop and good range. This is a pick for the near future with Alex Mack still in the fold at center. It may give time for Hennessy to get stronger and provide depth at the three interior line spots.
4 (119)
Mykal Walker
6’3 230 OLB-Fresno State
3rd Round
Walker’s work in school was often as a Rush OLB, but he will get the opportunity to develop as an exchange LB with the hope that he can provide immediate special teams coverage value. His work in the postseason at the exchange LB spot improved his draft stock.
4 (134)
Jaylinn Hawkins
6’2 208 S-Cal
4th Round
Hawkins -a former WR- continued to improve filling as a tackler (see vs. Kelley, UCLA ’19). The ball skills show up in some downfield moments, but his angles have been inconsistent.
Atlanta Falcons first-round pick A.J. Terrell (No. 8 pictured) was frequently given man-to-man assignments in Clemson’s defense.
After the Falcons released longtime punter Matt Bosher during the offseason, there was an opening for a punter/kickoff specialist. Hofrichter did both well during his stay at Syracuse.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Notable pick: Vaughn’s impact at Vanderbilt goes beyond the numbers. His contact balance, receiving skills and underrated long speed could be the jolt the Buccaneers need in the running game.
Winfield, Jr. was a solid nickel back earlier in his career, but injuries stopped his charge. He put it all together as a safety in 2019 and -if healthy- the best may be yet to come. He is entering a young, crowded defensive backfield that will benefit from his competitive nature.
3 (76)
Ke’Shawn Vaughn
5’10 214 RB-Vanderbilt
65/2nd Round
Vaughn’s productivity (back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons), quickness, field speed and balance were undone by nagging injury problems. He played his best against the best competition in school.
5 (161)
Tyler Johnson
6’1 206 WR-Minnesota
156/4th Round
Johnson finished his storied career with 33 receiving TDs. There are questions about his short-striding nature and ball security, but none concerning strength.
6 (194)
Khalil Davis
6’1 308 DT-Nebraska
144/3rd Round
Davis played some at DE and DT in school, but his natural NFL position will be inside. The all-conference track & field thrower’s 4.79 speed didn’t consistently show up down-to-down, but he impressed the last two seasons.
7 (241)
Chappelle Russell
6’2 236 LB-Temple
296/4th Round
Russell’s movement and play speed in 2019 made it seem as if his knee injuries were a thing of the past.
7 (245)
Raymond Calais
All-purpose/Louisiana-Lafayette
370/5th Round
In 49 career games, Calais averaged nearly eight yards per carry. In addition, he was one of the draft ‘s
Tampa Bay Buccaneers first-round pick Tristan Wirfs posted the second-best all-time mark in the state of Iowa in the shot put (66-3 1/4).
New Orleans Saints
Notable Pick: Trautman has a chance to develop into a very good NFL tight end. He runs routes like a wide receiver and offers flex potential. He may have an opportunity to steal repetitions from incumbent No. 2 tight end Josh Hill.
Round,Selection,
Player
School
DN Big BoardRank/Grade
‘Nasty’ Take:
1 (24)
Cesar Ruiz
6’3 307 OC-Michigan
31/2nd Round
Ruiz has all of the requisite tools to get to and complete most of his assignments. He has to finish blocks with more tenacity in order to become the player the team envisions.
3 (74)
Zack Baun
6’3 238 LB-Wisconsin
16/2nd Round
Baun was often lauded as one of the Big Ten’s best pass rushers over the last two seasons, but the former Badger also found time to pick off two passes (TD) and showed upside in pass coverage.
3 (105)
Adam Trautman
6’5 255 TE-Dayton
128/3rd Round
Trautman’s 6.78 3-cone time at the 2020 NFL Combine ranked as one of the more impressive testing numbers during the postseason.
4 (120)
Tommy Stevens
6’4 237 QB/All-purpose-Mississippi State
430/5th Round
If Saints fans want to envision a possible role for Stevens, look no further than how former Penn State OC and Mississippi State HC Joe Moorhead used him as a Nittany Lion. It could be his path to making the roster. He averaged 6.7 yards per carry with 8 TDs in a slash-type role in Happy Valley.
New Orleans Saints third-round pick Adam Trautman, pictured, averaged a touchdown catch every 5.74 receptions in school.
After two back-to-back seasons thwarted by injury, Winfield, Jr. bounced back to earn the 2019 Big Ten’s Woodson-Tatum Defensive Back of the Year Award. His seven interceptions were the fourth-best total in the nation and led the Big Ten. The former Golden Gopher defender was a big part of the team’s 11-win campaign. He joins a young, athletic secondary in Tampa.
Tulsa defensive end Trevis Gipson totaled 13 quarterback sacks in college and in 2019 doubled his sack production from four to eight. DraftNasty’s Corey Chavous caught up with Gipson (6’3, 259) during the 2020 Senior Bowl media day to discuss his favorite pass rush moves and the chances of improving his draft stock.
Chavous: You worked so much at the four-technique (DL) and oftentimes you play bigger than your size, what do you feel like this week offers in terms of showing you can be as an edge rusher? Gipson: I feel like that will show my versatility to scouts and general managers that will be observing our practice. Like you said, I came in sometimes four-I (inside shade of tackle), four (head-up versus offensive tackle) or sometimes even five (outside shoulder of offensive tackle), but just being on that edge showing I can bull rush or speed rush, speed-to-power, just showing a lot of versatility in my pass rush. I feel like that will help my overall draft stock at the end of the day.
Gipson finished his Golden Hurricane career with 25.5 tackles for losses and eight forced fumbles.
Chavous: Some of our notes on you include the right-hand post from the left defensive end spot and then using that same arm to dip and make the 90-degree turn against Cincinnati this year. When you go against bigger tackles, like the guys you’ll face this week, do you feel like your long arms will allow you to get some extension away from these big tackles? Gipson: I feel like it will. I have certain moves for certain tackles. Taller tackles I like to dip the corner or use my speed because they are longer than me. It all depends on what type of tackle I’m going against and just being able to turn that corner…wearing that down. That will open my opportunities to do the bull rush or power pass rushes overall.
Chavous: Do you think if you show here what you showed against other Power 5 teams that you could move up into the first round discussion? Gipson: Most definitely, my confidence in myself is out of this roof. I feel like once I show them my pass rush is unstoppable in my opinion then it will help my draft stock. Overall, run-stopping, also, I feel like that will help me. Just dominating in all aspects man, that’s a part of my game plan. Of course everyone wants their draft stock to rise, but you’ve got put in the work to do it. That’s my first milestone and I’ll cross that coming this afternoon (here at the Senior Bowl).
Chavous: You kind of touched upon it, you’re a good run defender. That separates you from potentially some of the other players. Why is it such a commitment to you in terms of holding the point or being able to two-gap? Gipson: In order to get to third down, you have to stop first and second.
Chavous: Yeah. Gipson: I feel like I have more fun rushing the passer but I can’t do that unless I stop the run first. Of course delivering big hits….just enjoying the physicality of the game, that’s part of the reason I do it man. I love the game. You can’t take physicality or you can’t take running away from the game. Everybody is gonna run the ball. Some teams more than others…like Navy.
Chavous: Right, right. Gipson: I didn’t get many pass rushes versus them (Navy).
Chavous: Protect your legs….(laughs). Gipson: Ah man, I had blood coming down my shins and everything. It was crazy man. But stopping the run is a big part of getting to that third down and that’s what comes first. So I take that more serious.
Chavous: You kind of remind me of those guys who are multi-dimensional, like Za’Darius Smith or Preston Smith, the guys that play up in Green Bay. Guys who can play the run and rush the passer. Who do you pattern your game after at the next level? Maybe a guy where you say that kind of reminds me of myself a little bit. I can work on developing some of what he already has in his arsenal. Gipson: I like to compare myself to Marcus Davenport (New Orleans Saints), he’s 6-foot-7 (6’6″). But just his story, coming out of UTSA, a small school, he was underlooked.
Chavous: He kind of rose up during this week (Senior Bowl) too, right? Gibson: Yeah, he did and that’s my plan. Seeing him become the 14th overall pick, it just gave me nothing but hope and pride. I’m going to try and kill this week and show scouts what I can do. Overall, perform at a high level.
Chavous: Thanks a lot man, we enjoyed watching you play. Best of luck. Gibson: Thanks a lot.
The former high school state champion wrestler brings a similar temperament to the football field. Wirfs has started at both tackle spots and earned All-Big Ten honors for the Iowa Hawkeyes as a senior. He contains potential at a minimum of four different offensive line spots but should see time early in his career on the edges.
Hofrichter’s strong leg traveled both inside and outside during his career for the Syracuse Orange. He registered 72 punts of 50 yards or more. The AP third-team All-American allowed just 17 yards on 10 punt returns in 2019. Over the course of his stay in school, he improved as a directional punter.
Former Georgia RB D’Andre Swift proved to be quite the all-purpose threat in Athens. The back-to-back 1,000-yard rusher averaged over nine yards per reception on 56 catches the last two seasons. For his career, the Pennsylvania native averaged 6.6 yards per carry with 25 total touchdowns. He should add a different element to the Detroit Lions offensive attack.
