2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft Round 7. Mr. Not-So-Irrelevant chosen.
- Thread starter NoleLizards
- Start date
With the 142nd pick, the Washington Redskins select Adam Trautman, TE, University of Dayton. 6-5, 251.
The Redskins' starting tight end is listed as Jeremy Sprinkle....Yes, Jeremy Sprinkle. Washington brings in some much needed competition.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Brand new to the tight end position after playing quarterback in high school but still managed to become Dayton’s all-time leading receiver. He needs technical work but his effort as a blocker is outstanding. Works to find leverage points on his opponents and push them all over the field. Displays the ability to be a fluid route runner that can eat up cushion and his vertical cuts are crisp. Smooth accelerator and he generates strong vertical push quickly in his route stems. Wonderful size and catch radius with the ability to extend it. Has a basketball background and that shows up when he’s challenged in contested situations to go up and get it. Does well to track and adjust. Hands appear soft and natural. Competitive worker after the catch.
CONS: Invites a ton of contact as a route runner and clearing will be a much bigger challenge in the NFL. Was a physical mismatch in college and that was enough for him to find success. New to the position and his technique is underdeveloped entering the league with his only experience coming at the FCS level. Has some funky timing and throttle down when executing horizontal breaks. Route running can be extremely calculated in some instances. Works hard after the catch but he’s not a natural runner with the football in terms of vision and taking on contact. Has significant room for growth with blocking techniques.
BEST TRAIT - Physical Traits
WORST TRAIT - Overall Technique
RED FLAGS - None
A high school quarterback, Adam Trautman never caught a pass prior to college but left Dayton as the program’s all-time leading receiver. Trautman needs a ton of technical work as a blocker and receiver but his blend of size, length, athleticism and competitive toughness gives him a chance to develop into a quality NFL player. There are outstanding flashes of NFL traits but his newness to the position combined with the level of competition he played against is a lot to consider when forecasting him to the next level. The tight end position is already challenging for refined college prospects to come into the NFL and make an immediate impact so projecting Trautman to do that is aggressive. With that said, he’s a worthwhile developmental prospect who could find early work in subpackages and has the ceiling of an impact starter.
The Redskins' starting tight end is listed as Jeremy Sprinkle....Yes, Jeremy Sprinkle. Washington brings in some much needed competition.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Brand new to the tight end position after playing quarterback in high school but still managed to become Dayton’s all-time leading receiver. He needs technical work but his effort as a blocker is outstanding. Works to find leverage points on his opponents and push them all over the field. Displays the ability to be a fluid route runner that can eat up cushion and his vertical cuts are crisp. Smooth accelerator and he generates strong vertical push quickly in his route stems. Wonderful size and catch radius with the ability to extend it. Has a basketball background and that shows up when he’s challenged in contested situations to go up and get it. Does well to track and adjust. Hands appear soft and natural. Competitive worker after the catch.
CONS: Invites a ton of contact as a route runner and clearing will be a much bigger challenge in the NFL. Was a physical mismatch in college and that was enough for him to find success. New to the position and his technique is underdeveloped entering the league with his only experience coming at the FCS level. Has some funky timing and throttle down when executing horizontal breaks. Route running can be extremely calculated in some instances. Works hard after the catch but he’s not a natural runner with the football in terms of vision and taking on contact. Has significant room for growth with blocking techniques.
BEST TRAIT - Physical Traits
WORST TRAIT - Overall Technique
RED FLAGS - None
A high school quarterback, Adam Trautman never caught a pass prior to college but left Dayton as the program’s all-time leading receiver. Trautman needs a ton of technical work as a blocker and receiver but his blend of size, length, athleticism and competitive toughness gives him a chance to develop into a quality NFL player. There are outstanding flashes of NFL traits but his newness to the position combined with the level of competition he played against is a lot to consider when forecasting him to the next level. The tight end position is already challenging for refined college prospects to come into the NFL and make an immediate impact so projecting Trautman to do that is aggressive. With that said, he’s a worthwhile developmental prospect who could find early work in subpackages and has the ceiling of an impact starter.
With the 143rd pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Philadelphia Eagles select Eno Benjamin
Eno Benjamin RB ASU
Ingram cant play forever and Benjamin is an intriguing talent
By Lance Zierlein
Devin Singletary
Overview
Slightly undersized three-down option with unorthodox running style that can keep everyone on the field guessing, including his own team. Benjamin thrives when runs go off schedule but also has a habit of taking them off schedule prematurely. His elusiveness is always on display, but he's a competitive, tough runner when it is time to get down. Benjamin needs a spread-based running game that allows for more space and freedom but must become more decisive as an NFL back. He offers value in a dual run-catch capacity on Day 2 (Rounds 2-3).
Strengths
· Excellent three-down production as starter
· When you think he's tackled, he's not
· Eludes, accelerates and escapes
· Changes speed to manipulate edge and turn the corner
· Eliminates overpursuit with cutbacks
· Runs with excellent competitive streak inside/outside
· Staccato footwork to slalom around traffic
· Hard-nosed, with plenty of pop as finisher
· Alters platform, making him a slippery tackle target
· Effective pass catcher and hard to guard out of backfield
· Knows where to be and makes an effort in pass pro
Weaknesses
· Noticeable drop in production from 2018
· Could take time adjusting to a pro-style rush attack
· Feels unsure when approaching the muck
· One-cut opportunities turn into a series of moves
· Spends too much time setting up LBs instead of bursting past
· Hip tightness restricts sharpness of downhill cuts
· Takes on heavy collisions too often
· Occasional focus drops on easy catch attempts
Eno Benjamin RB ASU
Ingram cant play forever and Benjamin is an intriguing talent
By Lance Zierlein
Devin Singletary
Overview
Slightly undersized three-down option with unorthodox running style that can keep everyone on the field guessing, including his own team. Benjamin thrives when runs go off schedule but also has a habit of taking them off schedule prematurely. His elusiveness is always on display, but he's a competitive, tough runner when it is time to get down. Benjamin needs a spread-based running game that allows for more space and freedom but must become more decisive as an NFL back. He offers value in a dual run-catch capacity on Day 2 (Rounds 2-3).
Strengths
· Excellent three-down production as starter
· When you think he's tackled, he's not
· Eludes, accelerates and escapes
· Changes speed to manipulate edge and turn the corner
· Eliminates overpursuit with cutbacks
· Runs with excellent competitive streak inside/outside
· Staccato footwork to slalom around traffic
· Hard-nosed, with plenty of pop as finisher
· Alters platform, making him a slippery tackle target
· Effective pass catcher and hard to guard out of backfield
· Knows where to be and makes an effort in pass pro
Weaknesses
· Noticeable drop in production from 2018
· Could take time adjusting to a pro-style rush attack
· Feels unsure when approaching the muck
· One-cut opportunities turn into a series of moves
· Spends too much time setting up LBs instead of bursting past
· Hip tightness restricts sharpness of downhill cuts
· Takes on heavy collisions too often
· Occasional focus drops on easy catch attempts
With the 144th pick, the Seattle Seahawks select Ben Bartch, Guard, St John's (MN) University. 6-6, 308.
Some day, Seattle's bound to spend some draft capital on its o-line. Russell Wilson will be much appreciative.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Pass Sets - His foot cadence is terrific, whether he's a small school prospect or not. Even keeled with his steps and shows awareness to stay strong in the base and not over set or bail out with his angles. Impressive angles to close down space on the edge and was completely dominant at the DIII level.
Length - Meets length thresholds for playing out on the edge and he's shown effective hand strike variance and was well timed with punches. Difficult to gauge his consistency here due to level of competition but he was able to stonewall rushers around the edge versus all comers.
Balance - He had little issue with body control on his college tape. Was a man amongst boys each week and physically handled opposition cleanly at POA or getting himself framed onto a defender shooting through gaps. Instances of getting snatched off his set were present at Senior Bowl vs. longer, more potent athletes.
Hand Technique - His strike variance is actually really nice. Appreciate his patience to not over-extend himself but when he stabs it's forceful and compact, creating some good pop through his hands. There's awareness present to rework himself tight into the frame, too — doesn't show any panicked holds.
Power at POA - Certainly handled his business at the DIII level. Turned defenders out with ease, although he won't find that same ease to maul NFL defenders. There's some growth needed in functional strength to fill out his frame a bit but his technique and positioning awareness lend themselves well to good growth here.
Football IQ - What a pleasant surprise coming out of a small school setting. He's polished, he's patient and he shows understanding of angles and how to win at the POA based on alignment and anticipation. Thrived in Mobile at the Senior Bowl against the big boys, alleviating level of competition concerns.
Functional Athleticism - He's nimble. Boxy but lean build and he carries his weight well and should have little issue with foot speed at the next level. He's sufficient as a space blocker and has plenty of natural athleticism to win initial positioning or climb to the second level and get himself squared onto second level defenders.
Anchor Ability - He's not super stout or filled with raw power but his base is consistent and posture gives him optimal ability to drop the hips. He needs more lower body strength to avoid leaning onto his toes to help compensate so hard, which opened the doors for long-armed defenders to yank him off his set.
Flexibility - Clean. Little issue with the demands of vertical sets or opening himself up below the waist to get width quickly. His pad level and hip level are strong and as a result his ability to pivot, redirect or slide are strong and effective in mirror situations. Fluid and dynamic below the waist to slide and move.
Competitive Toughness - Impressed by walking into the Senior Bowl and locking horns with top end pass rushers. Stage wasn't too big and he appears to have that "dog" in him that you like having up front among your protectors. Give him a year in NFL strength and conditioning and he should be ready to perform at a high level.
---
Best Trait - Technique
Worst Trait - Functional Strength
Best Film - Chapman (2019)
Worst Film - Wisconsin Whitewater (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Ben Bartch is a high end developmental OT prospect who, with some additional time in an NFL strength and conditioning program, should become a quality starter at the NFL level. Bartch has wonderful fundamentals for a small school prospect and, with a bit more added functional strength to his frame, should be a well rounded pass protector. Bartch's resume is boosted by a strong showing at the 2020 Senior Bowl — he proved his mettle against a slew of pass rushers in Mobile.
Some day, Seattle's bound to spend some draft capital on its o-line. Russell Wilson will be much appreciative.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Pass Sets - His foot cadence is terrific, whether he's a small school prospect or not. Even keeled with his steps and shows awareness to stay strong in the base and not over set or bail out with his angles. Impressive angles to close down space on the edge and was completely dominant at the DIII level.
Length - Meets length thresholds for playing out on the edge and he's shown effective hand strike variance and was well timed with punches. Difficult to gauge his consistency here due to level of competition but he was able to stonewall rushers around the edge versus all comers.
Balance - He had little issue with body control on his college tape. Was a man amongst boys each week and physically handled opposition cleanly at POA or getting himself framed onto a defender shooting through gaps. Instances of getting snatched off his set were present at Senior Bowl vs. longer, more potent athletes.
Hand Technique - His strike variance is actually really nice. Appreciate his patience to not over-extend himself but when he stabs it's forceful and compact, creating some good pop through his hands. There's awareness present to rework himself tight into the frame, too — doesn't show any panicked holds.
Power at POA - Certainly handled his business at the DIII level. Turned defenders out with ease, although he won't find that same ease to maul NFL defenders. There's some growth needed in functional strength to fill out his frame a bit but his technique and positioning awareness lend themselves well to good growth here.
Football IQ - What a pleasant surprise coming out of a small school setting. He's polished, he's patient and he shows understanding of angles and how to win at the POA based on alignment and anticipation. Thrived in Mobile at the Senior Bowl against the big boys, alleviating level of competition concerns.
Functional Athleticism - He's nimble. Boxy but lean build and he carries his weight well and should have little issue with foot speed at the next level. He's sufficient as a space blocker and has plenty of natural athleticism to win initial positioning or climb to the second level and get himself squared onto second level defenders.
Anchor Ability - He's not super stout or filled with raw power but his base is consistent and posture gives him optimal ability to drop the hips. He needs more lower body strength to avoid leaning onto his toes to help compensate so hard, which opened the doors for long-armed defenders to yank him off his set.
Flexibility - Clean. Little issue with the demands of vertical sets or opening himself up below the waist to get width quickly. His pad level and hip level are strong and as a result his ability to pivot, redirect or slide are strong and effective in mirror situations. Fluid and dynamic below the waist to slide and move.
Competitive Toughness - Impressed by walking into the Senior Bowl and locking horns with top end pass rushers. Stage wasn't too big and he appears to have that "dog" in him that you like having up front among your protectors. Give him a year in NFL strength and conditioning and he should be ready to perform at a high level.
---
Best Trait - Technique
Worst Trait - Functional Strength
Best Film - Chapman (2019)
Worst Film - Wisconsin Whitewater (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Ben Bartch is a high end developmental OT prospect who, with some additional time in an NFL strength and conditioning program, should become a quality starter at the NFL level. Bartch has wonderful fundamentals for a small school prospect and, with a bit more added functional strength to his frame, should be a well rounded pass protector. Bartch's resume is boosted by a strong showing at the 2020 Senior Bowl — he proved his mettle against a slew of pass rushers in Mobile.
@NoleinATL See you're back for a little evening drafting. I'll be back in the morning.
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With the 145th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Philadelphia Eagles select
Kenny Willekes DL MSU
The eagles need depth and a 3 year starter fits the bill
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Willekes has packed on the pounds and the production since arriving at Michigan State as a walk-on. He's a high effort worker-bee with a relentless nose for the football. His refusal to give in until the whistle is more responsible for his success than his size or athletic traits. He's neither quick nor explosive, but he's very instinctive and has an above-average understanding of blocking scheme and play development. He's become a very impactful college player against all odds, but lacks the athletic profile to stick around long-term as a pro.
Strengths
· Former walk-on looking to show and prove each snap
· Three straight years of production beyond the norm
· Split low, providing needed balance playing through redirect blocks
· Smart, tough and relentless with good hand usage
· Almost never misses the mark as a tackler
· Comes out low and quick from his first step as rusher
· Quick to activate hands and clear the limbs
· High motor and second effort gets the payoffs
Weaknesses
· Below-average athlete with plodding foot quickness
· Movements are slow-twitch and lack suddenness
· Lacks tackling range to play stand-up linebacker
· Very little pressure against Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and Wisconsin
· Conversion of speed to power is absent
· Below-average rush counters
· Tries to survive against downhill blockers at point of attack
Kenny Willekes DL MSU
The eagles need depth and a 3 year starter fits the bill
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Willekes has packed on the pounds and the production since arriving at Michigan State as a walk-on. He's a high effort worker-bee with a relentless nose for the football. His refusal to give in until the whistle is more responsible for his success than his size or athletic traits. He's neither quick nor explosive, but he's very instinctive and has an above-average understanding of blocking scheme and play development. He's become a very impactful college player against all odds, but lacks the athletic profile to stick around long-term as a pro.
Strengths
· Former walk-on looking to show and prove each snap
· Three straight years of production beyond the norm
· Split low, providing needed balance playing through redirect blocks
· Smart, tough and relentless with good hand usage
· Almost never misses the mark as a tackler
· Comes out low and quick from his first step as rusher
· Quick to activate hands and clear the limbs
· High motor and second effort gets the payoffs
Weaknesses
· Below-average athlete with plodding foot quickness
· Movements are slow-twitch and lack suddenness
· Lacks tackling range to play stand-up linebacker
· Very little pressure against Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and Wisconsin
· Conversion of speed to power is absent
· Below-average rush counters
· Tries to survive against downhill blockers at point of attack
With the 146th pick, the Philadelphia Eagles select Case Cookus, QB, Northern Arizona University. 6-4, 205.
Philly brings in the 2019 FCS passing leader (4,095 yds, 31 TD 7 int.) to compete with Nate Sudfeld for the backup job. (Cookus is so far off the radar that I had a hard time finding a write-up for him.)
Per Draft Diamonds (Damon Talbot):
Case Cookus has been a special player since his Freshman year for the Lumberjacks, when he landed the Jerry Rice Award for Freshman of the Year. Cookus dominated his first season, finishing ranked in the FCS in multiple categories to include passing touchdowns, passing yards per completion, passing yards, completions, and passing effieciency.
Cookus has not slowed down either. He had a season ending injury in 2016 after playing in four games. In those four games he threw for 1,173 yards, with 13 touchdowns.
In 2017, Cookus rebounded and threw for a total of 3,413 yards and 22 touchdowns on 474 pass attempts.
Cookus missed the 2018 season as well with a season ending injury in the opening quarter of the second game of the season against Eastern Washington. He finished the season with 265 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. Cookus was granted an additional year and is hoping to have a huge final season.
If Case Cookus can stay healthy in 2019, NFL teams will be blowing up his phone. I love this kid’s film and size. A 6040 quarterback with a live arm is exactly what NFL teams are looking for.
@NoleinATL Begin round 5 when ready!
Philly brings in the 2019 FCS passing leader (4,095 yds, 31 TD 7 int.) to compete with Nate Sudfeld for the backup job. (Cookus is so far off the radar that I had a hard time finding a write-up for him.)
Per Draft Diamonds (Damon Talbot):
Case Cookus has been a special player since his Freshman year for the Lumberjacks, when he landed the Jerry Rice Award for Freshman of the Year. Cookus dominated his first season, finishing ranked in the FCS in multiple categories to include passing touchdowns, passing yards per completion, passing yards, completions, and passing effieciency.
Cookus has not slowed down either. He had a season ending injury in 2016 after playing in four games. In those four games he threw for 1,173 yards, with 13 touchdowns.
In 2017, Cookus rebounded and threw for a total of 3,413 yards and 22 touchdowns on 474 pass attempts.
Cookus missed the 2018 season as well with a season ending injury in the opening quarter of the second game of the season against Eastern Washington. He finished the season with 265 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. Cookus was granted an additional year and is hoping to have a huge final season.
If Case Cookus can stay healthy in 2019, NFL teams will be blowing up his phone. I love this kid’s film and size. A 6040 quarterback with a live arm is exactly what NFL teams are looking for.
@NoleinATL Begin round 5 when ready!
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With the 147th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Cincinnati Bengals select
Damien Lewis OL LSU
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Gabe Jackson
Overview
The run-blocking tape shows a forklift dressed as a right guard with the power and leverage to move some of the best interior defenders in the conference. The pass-blocking tape shows a heavy-footed guard who lacks length and lateral quickness to hold up if asked to block on an island. Lewis needs to play for a team heavy into gap and inside-zone concepts. He can hold his own against bull rushers but will struggle to move and recover against moving pieces in pass protection. He's a one-position prospect who lacks height/length but he's a plus run blocker who should outperform his draft slotting.
Strengths
Damien Lewis OL LSU
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Gabe Jackson
Overview
The run-blocking tape shows a forklift dressed as a right guard with the power and leverage to move some of the best interior defenders in the conference. The pass-blocking tape shows a heavy-footed guard who lacks length and lateral quickness to hold up if asked to block on an island. Lewis needs to play for a team heavy into gap and inside-zone concepts. He can hold his own against bull rushers but will struggle to move and recover against moving pieces in pass protection. He's a one-position prospect who lacks height/length but he's a plus run blocker who should outperform his draft slotting.
Strengths
- Girthy without carrying around a bunch of bad weight
- Play is always measured and controlled
- Wide base with expansive power zone
- Uses strong hands to gather, center and secure opponents
- Leverages hips into block and rolls into four-wheel drive
- Bulldozing down blocker
- Held his own against Raekwon Davis and Derrick Brown
- Isn't going to be bull-rushed
- Looks for work when uncovered as rusher
Weaknesses
- Sawed-off frame missing length teams look for
- Lacks athletic ability for outside zone or long pulls
- Plays with outside hands that open him to NFL length
- Limited quickness for climb-up blocks
- Could have issues adjusting to moving second-level targets
- Slow to reset feet when rushers get to his edge
- Below-average slide quickness leads to mirror deficiencies
- Needs earlier awareness of games/blitzers
With the 148th pick, the Carolina Panthers select Javon Leake, RB, University of Maryland. 6-0, 215.
Christian McCaffrey is of course a phenomenal back, but the Panthers could certainly use some fresh legs to ease his workload.
Per NFL.com:
By Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Tevin Coleman
Overview
The overall sample size has been very limited with just 155 total touches over three seasons, but look carefully and you'll find big play ability in all three campaigns. He looks thinner than listed and isn't overly willful as an interior runner, but he can be a lethal outside runner. Leake is a sudden back and his ability to cut and reach top-end speed quickly should allow him to keep ringing up chunk plays as a pro. His kick-return talent carries less weight with fewer returns happening on the pro level and he needs to prove he can offer real third-down value. He's a bonafide playmaker with low mileage on the odometer and might be coveted by teams looking for an injection of life into their running game.
Strengths
Christian McCaffrey is of course a phenomenal back, but the Panthers could certainly use some fresh legs to ease his workload.
Per NFL.com:
By Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Tevin Coleman
Overview
The overall sample size has been very limited with just 155 total touches over three seasons, but look carefully and you'll find big play ability in all three campaigns. He looks thinner than listed and isn't overly willful as an interior runner, but he can be a lethal outside runner. Leake is a sudden back and his ability to cut and reach top-end speed quickly should allow him to keep ringing up chunk plays as a pro. His kick-return talent carries less weight with fewer returns happening on the pro level and he needs to prove he can offer real third-down value. He's a bonafide playmaker with low mileage on the odometer and might be coveted by teams looking for an injection of life into their running game.
Strengths
- Elite playmaking ability
- Averaged one rushing touchdown every 8.5 career carries
- Feet are springy and explosive
- Runs with good instincts and pace in outside zone
- Processes defense quickly without slowing his roll
- Ability to probe and change entry point before defense catches up
- Plays with quick gather-and-cut footwork
- Gets skinny through the lane
- Loose hips help him elude open-field tacklers without making big cuts
- Willing to finish with pop when it's one-on-one
- Kick return specialist with three touchdowns during his career
- Thin through hips and thighs
- Had double-digit carries just three times in his career
- Some minor bouts of hesitation as gap runner
- Angle tackles can upend him due to narrow base
- Doesn't show much confidence cutting runs back into the field
- Tries to take runs wide even when he's outflanked
- Won't be a pile mover in short-yardage spots
- Ball security has been poor in limited sample size
- Engages in pass pro with helmet/shoulder rather than hands
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With the 149th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Detroit Lions select
Curtis Weaver , EDGE Boise State University
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Stand-up end whose production as a pass rusher must be balanced out by his below-average ability and athleticism in stopping the run. Weaver is a naturally instinctive counter-rusher who uses synchronized hands/feet to attack both inside and outside edges as a rusher, but his lack of explosiveness and athletic traits could dull his rush production against NFL offensive tackles. He plays with football intelligence, but his level of NFL success could be determined by whether his skill can overcome below-average explosiveness.
Strengths
Curtis Weaver , EDGE Boise State University
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Stand-up end whose production as a pass rusher must be balanced out by his below-average ability and athleticism in stopping the run. Weaver is a naturally instinctive counter-rusher who uses synchronized hands/feet to attack both inside and outside edges as a rusher, but his lack of explosiveness and athletic traits could dull his rush production against NFL offensive tackles. He plays with football intelligence, but his level of NFL success could be determined by whether his skill can overcome below-average explosiveness.
Strengths
- Excellent sack and tackle-for-loss production over three years
- Quick lateral reaction to cross-face blocker
- Fairly fluid in his movements with functional agility
- Plays with hands and feet working in unison
- Slick and seamless at working around blocks
- Plays past blockers with his eyes
- Accelerates into rush arc, creating rush momentum
- Uses swipe-and-slide technique to trim the edge
- Instinctive with his rush counters
- Displays adequate football IQ
- Can be a heavy striker as tackler
- Below-average body type with soft frame
- Lacks functional pursuit speed as edge defender
- Below-average athlete to drop and cover in space
- Has issues with balance and body control at times
- Ineffective punching and separating to set strong edge
- Allows himself to be sealed by play-side run blocks
- Too much head-ducking when taking on blocks
- Lacks hustle from back side of plays
With the 150th pick, the New York Giants select Pete Guerriero, RB, Monmouth University. 5-10, 190.
The Giants bring in a local product to spell Saquon Barkley.
Per Draft Diamonds (Damond Talbot):
After leading the nation in rushing and being named a concensus first-team FCS All-American, Monmouth University running back Pete Guerriero plans to enter the NFL Draft, bypassing his final season of college eligibility, per Varsity Aces on Twitter. Pete was one of four finalists for the Walter Payton Award, given to the FCS’s top offensive player.
As a redshirt junior this season, Guerriero obliterated the Monmouth single-season record and ranked No. 1 in the FCS with 1,995 rushing yards. The finalist for the STATS FCS Walter Payton Award also set the school’s single-season record with 2,331 all-purpose yards as the Hawks won the Big South championship and a playoff game for the first time and set the program mark for wins in an 11-3 campaign.
The 5-foot-10, 190-pound Guerriero won the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference track championships as a true freshman.
@NoleinATL Your pick.
The Giants bring in a local product to spell Saquon Barkley.
Per Draft Diamonds (Damond Talbot):
After leading the nation in rushing and being named a concensus first-team FCS All-American, Monmouth University running back Pete Guerriero plans to enter the NFL Draft, bypassing his final season of college eligibility, per Varsity Aces on Twitter. Pete was one of four finalists for the Walter Payton Award, given to the FCS’s top offensive player.
As a redshirt junior this season, Guerriero obliterated the Monmouth single-season record and ranked No. 1 in the FCS with 1,995 rushing yards. The finalist for the STATS FCS Walter Payton Award also set the school’s single-season record with 2,331 all-purpose yards as the Hawks won the Big South championship and a playoff game for the first time and set the program mark for wins in an 11-3 campaign.
The 5-foot-10, 190-pound Guerriero won the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference track championships as a true freshman.
@NoleinATL Your pick.
With the 151st pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Los Angeles Chargers select
Calvin Throckmorton OL Oregon
Got to protect Herbert who was picked in the first round. Throckmorton provides depth and knows Herbert so might provide some comfort on the sidelines after another interception
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Well-built tackle-to-guard prospect with very good core strength and displacement power in his upper body. The problem for Throckmorton is that for all his contact balance and diligence to play under control, his lower body stiffness and lack of functional quickness permeates his play in both the run and pass and will be much more pronounced on an NFL offensive line. The technique and quality of play is draft-worthy but physical limitations might make him no better than a replaceable backup.
Strengths
Calvin Throckmorton OL Oregon
Got to protect Herbert who was picked in the first round. Throckmorton provides depth and knows Herbert so might provide some comfort on the sidelines after another interception
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Well-built tackle-to-guard prospect with very good core strength and displacement power in his upper body. The problem for Throckmorton is that for all his contact balance and diligence to play under control, his lower body stiffness and lack of functional quickness permeates his play in both the run and pass and will be much more pronounced on an NFL offensive line. The technique and quality of play is draft-worthy but physical limitations might make him no better than a replaceable backup.
Strengths
- Four-year starter on decorated offensive line
- Strong and tough
- Very smart, according to scouts
- Starting experience at guard, tackle and center
- Understands physical limitations and plays with good body efficiency
- Uses choppy controlled steps in climb up to second level
- Absorbs contact and maintains his balance
- Smart angles to linebackers help mitigate lack of foot speed
- Upper-body strength dislodges edge-setters
- Arm length is below average
- Lacks length and slide quickness to pass protect as NFL tackle
- Plays with stiffness in knees and hips
- Straight-legged pass sets get him bounced back into pocket
- Could struggle with pad level for running game as NFL guard
- Reaches and cutoffs could have high failure rate
- Movement and adjustments are heavy and stiff in space
- Unable to consistently sustain due to lack of length and bend
- Strong, but power base is not very wide
I see you put your money where your fingers are and added more protection for Cali Jameis.
Wit the 152nd pick, the Miami Dolphins select Tyre Phillips, OL, Mississippi State University. 6-5, 342.
The Phins add yet even more beef up front.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Functional Athleticism - Does not possess any notable levels of mirror skills or short area quickness — which will turn off some teams to play as an outside blocker. He's a safer projection on the inside and he provides just enough mobility to get into the body and stay connected thanks to hand power and length, not athleticism.
Football IQ - For a one year starter, he actually has some really nice reps of framing and working up to the second level. He's a natural with transitioning off of initial framing. There are some footwork lapses out of his stance, can false step and will need to clear that up for more efficiency, especially inside.
Anchor Ability - Good luck. Massive frame who will bully rushers coming off the edge if they try to take him with straight speed to power. Natural strength and lower body power are notable and will readily gobble up challenges. He's got fair amount of recovery ability to reset and snap his hips back into place, too.
Hand Technique - He packs a ton of pop through the hands to stun and jolt. That said, he can be wide with the hands and if he is, he can be late to rework them back into a centered position on the chest. Plenty of room for improvement with hand fit but his strike zone is monstrous.
Balance - He's difficult to uproot or dislodge from the point of attack, mainly because he's so damn big. That said, he's not especially fluid in space and won't get upended due to lack of mobility as much as anything else. He's not going to give ground if you challenge him with power, however. Reliable, stout anchor.
Pass Sets - Does not have the kind of mobility you'd prefer to see to play out in space, so kicking him inside makes a lot of sense to cut down on his steep angles and vertical sets. Like his ability to protect from counters back inside and he also flips his hips inside to roll momentum into the wash effectively to counter with his base.
Flexibility - Does not have a great deal of hinge or coil but he has plenty of pure strength throughout his frame to counter. Pad level isn't overly strong but he's also not likely to get rolled onto his heels by contact. He does not show great effectively to flip hips vertically versus speed to carry rushers past the apex of the turn vs. outside rushers.
Power at POA - He's a dude up front. If you ask him to play forward, fire out and reset the line of scrimmage, you're going to get a to on of results. Really attractive results on down blocks and double teams — he's an absolute brute who will dominate the POA in short yardage.
Length - Vines. A little bit untraditional for an interior guy to have this much length so he is likely to have to reassess his strike timing for quicker fire at guard versus what he had at tackle. He's got good grip strength and sustains his blocks well as defenders try to press and extend themselves free of his blocking radius.
Competitive Toughness - All power. Teams that run a lot of gap are going to love plugging him into the run game. he's a scheme specific starting candidate if you can get him to quickly master the new timing of playing inside and have reliable pieces around him to keep him stable in pass protection. He's one of the best point setters in the class.
---
Best Trait - Power at POA
Worst Trait - Flexibility
Best Film - Texas A&M (2019)
Worst Film - LSU (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Tyre Phillips may end up scoring as a power tackle for some teams, he's got uncoachable length and the necessary reach to deter pass rushers off the edge. He will thrive best as a power guard on the interior, where his gravitational pull will make it difficult for interior defenders to work around his wingspan. Phillips has the anchor ability and functional power to bang heads with powerful tackles; but he's a scheme specific prospect who won't do well if charged with playing in space.
Your pick @NoleinATL.
The Phins add yet even more beef up front.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Functional Athleticism - Does not possess any notable levels of mirror skills or short area quickness — which will turn off some teams to play as an outside blocker. He's a safer projection on the inside and he provides just enough mobility to get into the body and stay connected thanks to hand power and length, not athleticism.
Football IQ - For a one year starter, he actually has some really nice reps of framing and working up to the second level. He's a natural with transitioning off of initial framing. There are some footwork lapses out of his stance, can false step and will need to clear that up for more efficiency, especially inside.
Anchor Ability - Good luck. Massive frame who will bully rushers coming off the edge if they try to take him with straight speed to power. Natural strength and lower body power are notable and will readily gobble up challenges. He's got fair amount of recovery ability to reset and snap his hips back into place, too.
Hand Technique - He packs a ton of pop through the hands to stun and jolt. That said, he can be wide with the hands and if he is, he can be late to rework them back into a centered position on the chest. Plenty of room for improvement with hand fit but his strike zone is monstrous.
Balance - He's difficult to uproot or dislodge from the point of attack, mainly because he's so damn big. That said, he's not especially fluid in space and won't get upended due to lack of mobility as much as anything else. He's not going to give ground if you challenge him with power, however. Reliable, stout anchor.
Pass Sets - Does not have the kind of mobility you'd prefer to see to play out in space, so kicking him inside makes a lot of sense to cut down on his steep angles and vertical sets. Like his ability to protect from counters back inside and he also flips his hips inside to roll momentum into the wash effectively to counter with his base.
Flexibility - Does not have a great deal of hinge or coil but he has plenty of pure strength throughout his frame to counter. Pad level isn't overly strong but he's also not likely to get rolled onto his heels by contact. He does not show great effectively to flip hips vertically versus speed to carry rushers past the apex of the turn vs. outside rushers.
Power at POA - He's a dude up front. If you ask him to play forward, fire out and reset the line of scrimmage, you're going to get a to on of results. Really attractive results on down blocks and double teams — he's an absolute brute who will dominate the POA in short yardage.
Length - Vines. A little bit untraditional for an interior guy to have this much length so he is likely to have to reassess his strike timing for quicker fire at guard versus what he had at tackle. He's got good grip strength and sustains his blocks well as defenders try to press and extend themselves free of his blocking radius.
Competitive Toughness - All power. Teams that run a lot of gap are going to love plugging him into the run game. he's a scheme specific starting candidate if you can get him to quickly master the new timing of playing inside and have reliable pieces around him to keep him stable in pass protection. He's one of the best point setters in the class.
---
Best Trait - Power at POA
Worst Trait - Flexibility
Best Film - Texas A&M (2019)
Worst Film - LSU (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Tyre Phillips may end up scoring as a power tackle for some teams, he's got uncoachable length and the necessary reach to deter pass rushers off the edge. He will thrive best as a power guard on the interior, where his gravitational pull will make it difficult for interior defenders to work around his wingspan. Phillips has the anchor ability and functional power to bang heads with powerful tackles; but he's a scheme specific prospect who won't do well if charged with playing in space.
Your pick @NoleinATL.
With the 153rd pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Carolina Panthers select
Charlie Heck OT University of North Carolina
Teddy is going to need help on the line and Heck is a coach’s son who could provide depth at either tackle position
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Sam Young
Overview
Three-year starter with offensive line play in his bloodlines. He's a tall tackle with inevitable leverage and anchor concerns at times despite playing with bend. He carries an NFL-ready frame with long arms and loose hips for move blocks and recoveries. His range in pass sets is just average, so he needs to get on top of rushers with his length early in the rep to maintain feel and widen the arc when needed. Heck has the talent to handle swing tackle duties and should be fully functional in all run-blocking schemes.
Strengths
Charlie Heck OT University of North Carolina
Teddy is going to need help on the line and Heck is a coach’s son who could provide depth at either tackle position
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Sam Young
Overview
Three-year starter with offensive line play in his bloodlines. He's a tall tackle with inevitable leverage and anchor concerns at times despite playing with bend. He carries an NFL-ready frame with long arms and loose hips for move blocks and recoveries. His range in pass sets is just average, so he needs to get on top of rushers with his length early in the rep to maintain feel and widen the arc when needed. Heck has the talent to handle swing tackle duties and should be fully functional in all run-blocking schemes.
Strengths
- Father is an NFL offensive line coach
- Much more fluid than expected for his size
- Athleticism and agility to accelerate into or adjust to moving targets
- Makes combo blocks with desired rhythm
- Thrusts hips into base blocks and drives from insteps
- Transitions from pass punch to grip to slow the rush
- Reestablishes hand positioning through length and effort
- Gets length involved early in pass sets
- Adequate pass posture
- Makes athletic recoveries to wash rushers past quarterback
Weaknesses
- Very tall and high-cut
- Needs to improve core strength for better body control
- Narrows his base as drive blocker
- Pad level allows him to be discarded during sustain phase
- Struggles adjusting to cross-face movements
- Early opener in pass sets
- Allows weight to slide too far outside, opening inside counter
- Hands need to be quicker with his punch
- High center of gravity leads to some anchor failure
With the 154th pick, the Miami Dolphins select Benito Jones, DT, University of Mississippi. 6-1, 321.
Having addressed their offensive front, Miami now turns to the defensive side of the ball adding more SEC bulk.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Contact balance is awful but he has the power to exchange and anchor at the point. Flashes a swim move when he’s tasked with shooting a gap. Has enough short area quickness to get into the backfield. Can reset the line of scrimmage with his natural leverage. Competes when tasked with double teams.
CONS: Squatty build and he lacks length. More narrow than expected in his lowers and bulgy above the waist. He isn’t often put on skates but his contact balance is awful. Doesn’t have the extension skills to defend multiple gaps like a prototypical nose would. Can only make an impact if he can play in a straight line. Labors to turn and work laterally. Was clearly asked to play too many snaps in college and his motor shuts down often. Doesn’t play through blocks well.
BEST TRAIT - Functional Strength
WORST TRAIT - Lateral Movements Skills
RED FLAGS - None
Ole Miss defensive tackle Benito Jones profiles as one-technique in an even front defense, but even in that role he comes with limitations. While he has the functional strength to exchange in the trenches, Jones is top heavy with poor contact balance. He isn’t technically refined with his hands and he doesn’t have the quickness needed to work to the edges of blockers and work through gaps. His pass rushing upside is minimal. Jones may be able to find some early down work in base defense but there isn’t much value in his skill set at the next level, especially considering his physical limitations.
@NoleinATL You're up.
Having addressed their offensive front, Miami now turns to the defensive side of the ball adding more SEC bulk.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Contact balance is awful but he has the power to exchange and anchor at the point. Flashes a swim move when he’s tasked with shooting a gap. Has enough short area quickness to get into the backfield. Can reset the line of scrimmage with his natural leverage. Competes when tasked with double teams.
CONS: Squatty build and he lacks length. More narrow than expected in his lowers and bulgy above the waist. He isn’t often put on skates but his contact balance is awful. Doesn’t have the extension skills to defend multiple gaps like a prototypical nose would. Can only make an impact if he can play in a straight line. Labors to turn and work laterally. Was clearly asked to play too many snaps in college and his motor shuts down often. Doesn’t play through blocks well.
BEST TRAIT - Functional Strength
WORST TRAIT - Lateral Movements Skills
RED FLAGS - None
Ole Miss defensive tackle Benito Jones profiles as one-technique in an even front defense, but even in that role he comes with limitations. While he has the functional strength to exchange in the trenches, Jones is top heavy with poor contact balance. He isn’t technically refined with his hands and he doesn’t have the quickness needed to work to the edges of blockers and work through gaps. His pass rushing upside is minimal. Jones may be able to find some early down work in base defense but there isn’t much value in his skill set at the next level, especially considering his physical limitations.
@NoleinATL You're up.
With the 155th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Minnesota Vikings select
Jason Strowbridge, DE University of North Carolina
Good size, will provide depth on the line, plus I like that comparison
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tank Carradine
Overview
Strowbridge will give opponents a physical challenge with good length, toughness and hand usage at the point of attack, but he lacks the suddenness and short-area directional change to be a consistent disruptor. While he's not a plus pass rusher, he definitely flashed at the Senior Bowl and has upside as a reduced rusher in an even front on passing downs. He will need to drop the pad level to improve as an edge-setter, but he appears to offer the necessary physical tools and demeanor to become a rotational 3-4 five-technique or 4-3 base end with eventual-starter potential.
Strengths
Jason Strowbridge, DE University of North Carolina
Good size, will provide depth on the line, plus I like that comparison
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tank Carradine
Overview
Strowbridge will give opponents a physical challenge with good length, toughness and hand usage at the point of attack, but he lacks the suddenness and short-area directional change to be a consistent disruptor. While he's not a plus pass rusher, he definitely flashed at the Senior Bowl and has upside as a reduced rusher in an even front on passing downs. He will need to drop the pad level to improve as an edge-setter, but he appears to offer the necessary physical tools and demeanor to become a rotational 3-4 five-technique or 4-3 base end with eventual-starter potential.
Strengths
- Has NFL length, strength and toughness
- Decent quickness into neutral zone
- Excellent response to mirror initial blocker movement
- Rugged demeanor at the point of attack
- Hands are violent and fairly skilled
- Shows ability to punch and separate for two-gapping potential
- Power to pull free from block engagement
- Consistently stuffs cut-block attempts
- Effective arm-over move gives him life as interior rusher
- Motor can run hot for early pocket tension if he can find the edge
Weaknesses
- Is a bit of a 'tweener between 3-technique and 5-technique spots
- Plays too straight-legged taking on blocks
- Contact balance and anchor need work against angle pressure
- Feet are slower and out of sync with his hands
- Movement is much more gradual than twitchy
- Lacks agility to get through foot traffic cleanly
- Leggy in space, limiting short area change of direction and tackling success
- Tackle range and body control on the move are below average
- Needs to develop secondary rush moves
- Play can be out of control, causing him to miss sacks when he gets to the quarterback
With the 156th pick, the San Francisco 49ers select Shaquille Quarterman, LB, University of Miami. 6-0, 234.
The Niners select an old-school thumper to enhance their backer depth.
Per nfl.com:
By Lance Zierlein,NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Andre Smith
Overview
Four-year starter and team leader with a physical demeanor and impressive level of production. Quarterman is durable and dependable in the middle of the defense, but he lacks NFL range and has below-average short-area agility and quickness as open-field tackler. He's a linear, downhill thumper, but struggles to stay ahead of climbing blocks when runs flow wide. His size and toughness give him a shot as a backup inside linebacker.
Strengths
The Niners select an old-school thumper to enhance their backer depth.
Per nfl.com:
By Lance Zierlein,NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Andre Smith
Overview
Four-year starter and team leader with a physical demeanor and impressive level of production. Quarterman is durable and dependable in the middle of the defense, but he lacks NFL range and has below-average short-area agility and quickness as open-field tackler. He's a linear, downhill thumper, but struggles to stay ahead of climbing blocks when runs flow wide. His size and toughness give him a shot as a backup inside linebacker.
Strengths
- Always shows up to the party
- Never missed a start and plays with throwback approach
- Keeps searching for tackles for loss
- Triggers down into the hole to restrict the gap
- Strong in his upper half
- Attacks climbing blocks proactively
- Has 12 career passes defensed
- Ridiculous consistency in tackle production
- Gathers and coils to ignite his tackle attempts
- Thuds behind his pads and latches to wrap as tackler
- Movements are segmented and lack fluidity
- Noisy upper body with head and shoulders flying around
- Better patience could help him avoid congestion
- Take-on is usually all shoulder over a stiff punch
- Sideline-to-sideline speed misses the mark
- Climbers find him during his lateral scrapes
- Doesn't play with much knee bend in space
- Struggles to change direction quickly to track cutbacks
- Overflows the action
- Won't offer third-down value as a pro
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@NoleinATL Can you believe it took this long for a Cane to come off the board? Nice Carradine reference BTW. Your pick.
With the 157th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Jacksonville Jaguars select
Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
Need depth and this guy could be a starter with in proper setting
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
DeVante Parker
Overview
Very intriguing height-weight-speed prospect who showed noticeable improvements in a number of important areas in 2019. While his hands were superior in '19, it's possible that focus drops could return with bigger, better players beating on his routes from snap to whistle. When he does catch it, he has an innate ability to add yardage after the catch with his size and agility. Gandy-Golden's route-running is still a work in progress, but his build-up speed, length and ball skills could allow him to develop into a dangerous third-level threat on the next level.
Strengths
Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
Need depth and this guy could be a starter with in proper setting
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
DeVante Parker
Overview
Very intriguing height-weight-speed prospect who showed noticeable improvements in a number of important areas in 2019. While his hands were superior in '19, it's possible that focus drops could return with bigger, better players beating on his routes from snap to whistle. When he does catch it, he has an innate ability to add yardage after the catch with his size and agility. Gandy-Golden's route-running is still a work in progress, but his build-up speed, length and ball skills could allow him to develop into a dangerous third-level threat on the next level.
Strengths
- Agility and nimble feet to create space in press release
- Build-up speed catches defenders by surprise
- Flashes subtle but effective route stems to gain freedom to the post
- Sits down to avoid contested catches against zone
- Natural ball-tracker, making early path adjustments when necessary
- Improvement in hands from 2018 to 2019 was mind-boggling
- Activates quick hands to pluck hot throws coming in
- Consistent to pluck it away from his frame
- Catch radius is ridiculously wide
- Can climb way up his ladder to high-point the 50/50 throws
- Able to elude first tackle after catch
- Size and balance present challenges to tackle after catch
Weaknesses
- Hard to unsee poor focus drops that plagued him in 2018
- Physically overwhelmed by Auburn's press coverage as a junior
- Below-average urgency in initial vertical push into routes
- Finds route traffic inside the first five yards
- Has some hip tightness that creates additional roll into route breaks
- Stop-start route breaks and double moves are sloppy
- Internal route clock inconsistent, taking route timing off schedule at times
- Needs to learn to stack and body cornerbacks downfield
- May not have a desire to work inside the noisy middle
With the 157th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Jacksonville Jaguars select
Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
Need depth and this guy could be a starter with in proper setting
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
DeVante Parker
Overview
Very intriguing height-weight-speed prospect who showed noticeable improvements in a number of important areas in 2019. While his hands were superior in '19, it's possible that focus drops could return with bigger, better players beating on his routes from snap to whistle. When he does catch it, he has an innate ability to add yardage after the catch with his size and agility. Gandy-Golden's route-running is still a work in progress, but his build-up speed, length and ball skills could allow him to develop into a dangerous third-level threat on the next level.
Strengths
- Agility and nimble feet to create space in press release
- Build-up speed catches defenders by surprise
- Flashes subtle but effective route stems to gain freedom to the post
- Sits down to avoid contested catches against zone
- Natural ball-tracker, making early path adjustments when necessary
- Improvement in hands from 2018 to 2019 was mind-boggling
- Activates quick hands to pluck hot throws coming in
- Consistent to pluck it away from his frame
- Catch radius is ridiculously wide
- Can climb way up his ladder to high-point the 50/50 throws
- Able to elude first tackle after catch
- Size and balance present challenges to tackle after catch
Weaknesses
- Hard to unsee poor focus drops that plagued him in 2018
- Physically overwhelmed by Auburn's press coverage as a junior
- Below-average urgency in initial vertical push into routes
- Finds route traffic inside the first five yards
- Has some hip tightness that creates additional roll into route breaks
- Stop-start route breaks and double moves are sloppy
- Internal route clock inconsistent, taking route timing off schedule at times
- Needs to learn to stack and body cornerbacks downfield
- May not have a desire to work inside the noisy middle
Took my pick.
With the 158th pick, the New York Jets select Kalija Lipscomb, WR, Vanderbilt University. 6-0, 202.
The Jets add another wideout in attempting to improve their putrid receiving corps.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Fairly complete route runner that is experienced executing a full tree. Does well to sell his breaks and run crips patterns. Deceptive with his routes and he doesn’t tip his breaks. Stays leveraged throughout his release and stem and he’s a true route technician. He can force false steps, stack and create leverage. Ball skills, hands and concentration at the catch point are all excellent. Tracks and adjusts to the football with ease.
CONS: Athletic profile functional strength are modest. Has not proven able to win down the field and body positioning doesn’t come natural for him. Needs to play through contact with better consistency and he can get swallowed up by physical corners.
BEST TRAIT - Route Running
WORST TRAIT - Athleticism, Play Strength
RED FLAGS - None
Vanderbilt wide receiver Kalija Lipscomb is a smart wide receiver with fairly polished route running skills. He’s experienced running a full route tree and there’s a good bit of deception to the way he executes. His ball skills and hands certainly meet the mark of an NFL receiver. Unfortunately, his modest physical skill set presents some concerns where his lack of athleticism and functional strength limit his projection at the next level. Without any real trump cards in the tool box, Lipscomb is an ordinary talent that profiles as depth in the NFL who will need to excel on special teams.
You're up @NoleinATL.
The Jets add another wideout in attempting to improve their putrid receiving corps.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Fairly complete route runner that is experienced executing a full tree. Does well to sell his breaks and run crips patterns. Deceptive with his routes and he doesn’t tip his breaks. Stays leveraged throughout his release and stem and he’s a true route technician. He can force false steps, stack and create leverage. Ball skills, hands and concentration at the catch point are all excellent. Tracks and adjusts to the football with ease.
CONS: Athletic profile functional strength are modest. Has not proven able to win down the field and body positioning doesn’t come natural for him. Needs to play through contact with better consistency and he can get swallowed up by physical corners.
BEST TRAIT - Route Running
WORST TRAIT - Athleticism, Play Strength
RED FLAGS - None
Vanderbilt wide receiver Kalija Lipscomb is a smart wide receiver with fairly polished route running skills. He’s experienced running a full route tree and there’s a good bit of deception to the way he executes. His ball skills and hands certainly meet the mark of an NFL receiver. Unfortunately, his modest physical skill set presents some concerns where his lack of athleticism and functional strength limit his projection at the next level. Without any real trump cards in the tool box, Lipscomb is an ordinary talent that profiles as depth in the NFL who will need to excel on special teams.
You're up @NoleinATL.
With the 159th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Las Vegas Raiders select
Larrell Murchison DT North Carolina State University
Smallish, but plays hard and adds depth to Raiders DLine
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tanzel Smart
Overview
Early into his evaluation, it's hard to get past the tight lower body that restricts his upfield and lateral strides with his feet barely leaving the ground. As the tape rolls on, it's impossible not to notice his motor and that he's always around the ball and rarely on the ground. Murchison has the ability to battle through blocks and come out well-oriented and ready to make plays. He's quick to process and respond, but doesn't have great closing burst and lateral agility. He thrives in smaller spaces with less ground to cover and should become a good rotational three-technique for a 4-3 defense.
Strengths
Larrell Murchison DT North Carolina State University
Smallish, but plays hard and adds depth to Raiders DLine
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tanzel Smart
Overview
Early into his evaluation, it's hard to get past the tight lower body that restricts his upfield and lateral strides with his feet barely leaving the ground. As the tape rolls on, it's impossible not to notice his motor and that he's always around the ball and rarely on the ground. Murchison has the ability to battle through blocks and come out well-oriented and ready to make plays. He's quick to process and respond, but doesn't have great closing burst and lateral agility. He thrives in smaller spaces with less ground to cover and should become a good rotational three-technique for a 4-3 defense.
Strengths
- Impact production against run and pass
- Stutter-rush helps work edge to edge
- Never stops charging forward to harass pocket
- Effective spin counter at the top his rush
- Quick lateral response to lineman's first movements
- Cross-faces blockers majority of time
- Consistently plays under his pads
- Proper technique to brace and scrap versus double teams
- Rarely ever on the ground
Weaknesses
- Lower body tightness is restrictive
- Unable to click and explode into initial blocks
- Short-stepper with below-average closing burst
- Limited reactive agility as short-area tackler
- Hands are quick but would benefit from more deliberate force
- Effort over traits could drop him in the draft a little
With the 160th pick, the Indianapolis Colts select Omar Bayless, WR, Arkansas State University. 6-1, 212.
The Colts add another receiver to compete for the slots opposite T.Y. Hilton. Philip Rivers is much pleased.
Per nfl.com:
By Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Roger Lewis
Overview
Vertical target coming off a monster season with several big plays to light up the stat sheet. Bayless struggles with hip sink. His short-area agility severely limits functional separation out of breaks underneath and on intermediate routes. He appeared to flash quality speed on tape, but scouts aren't sure he has true top speed to become a vertical threat as a pro. He's athletic in the air, but needs to play tougher/stronger both through the route and on 50/50 balls. He might get a shot to prove himself as a later-round pick if he runs well.
Strengths
The Colts add another receiver to compete for the slots opposite T.Y. Hilton. Philip Rivers is much pleased.
Per nfl.com:
By Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison-Roger Lewis
Overview
Vertical target coming off a monster season with several big plays to light up the stat sheet. Bayless struggles with hip sink. His short-area agility severely limits functional separation out of breaks underneath and on intermediate routes. He appeared to flash quality speed on tape, but scouts aren't sure he has true top speed to become a vertical threat as a pro. He's athletic in the air, but needs to play tougher/stronger both through the route and on 50/50 balls. He might get a shot to prove himself as a later-round pick if he runs well.
Strengths
- Monster 2019 season
- Averaged 50 yards per game more than nearest Sun Belt wideout
- Vertical menace with touchdowns of 71, 89 and 92 yards in 2019
- Glides up to off-man coverage then gasses it past to separate
- Clever hand-fighter to maintain his vertical spacing
- Athletically gifted in the air
- Able to intensify focus as a red-zone target
- Works to the ball and doesn't leave quarterback hanging
- Needs more refined press release
- Sluggish working underneath routes
- Faced high number of contested catches
- Unable to sink hips and break sharply
- Route tree will need to be limited
- Needs to be much more assertive on 50/50 throws
- Has small hands and a number of focus drops
- Cornerbacks allowed to rough up his route
With the 161st pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock draft the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select
Quintez Cephus WR Wisconsin
Love this guys tape, makes team and is 3rd receiver over the middle for TB12
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Zach Pascal
Overview
After missing all of 2018, Cephus got right back into the swing of things culminating with memorable games against Ohio State and Oregon. Size and body positioning create workable windows in tight quarters and his ball skills build trust with the quarterback. He's a build-up runner who lacks suddenness to uncover and may need to be motioned, bunched, and lined in the slot to help with early separation. Teams know he can catch it but will need to see him get open. Cephus is a possession receiver with the profile of a capable WR3/4.
Strengths
Quintez Cephus WR Wisconsin
Love this guys tape, makes team and is 3rd receiver over the middle for TB12
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Zach Pascal
Overview
After missing all of 2018, Cephus got right back into the swing of things culminating with memorable games against Ohio State and Oregon. Size and body positioning create workable windows in tight quarters and his ball skills build trust with the quarterback. He's a build-up runner who lacks suddenness to uncover and may need to be motioned, bunched, and lined in the slot to help with early separation. Teams know he can catch it but will need to see him get open. Cephus is a possession receiver with the profile of a capable WR3/4.
Strengths
- Build and body type are NFL-caliber
- Strong finish against Minnesota, Ohio State and Oregon
- Build-up speed offers glimpses of downfield openings
- Hand-fighter with skill to gain late catch space
- Talent and focus to bring it in with one hand
- Ratchets up competitiveness in tight quarters
- Boxes out and keeps cornerbacks on his hip
- Squares numbers and works aggressively back to the ball
- Picks it outside his frame with strong hands
- Runs with good aggression after the catch
- Has intensity as run-blocker when he wants to
- Semi-strider with limited vertical push off the snap
- May need alignment help for desired release against press
- Monotone route speed fails to manipulate defenders
- Marginal footwork for complex routes
- Rolls to a stop on comebacks due to hip tightness
- Lack of sink creates imbalance when attempting to snap off breaks
- Below-average separation burst from turns
- Needs better angles for improved consistency as run blocker
With the 162nd pick, the Washington Redskins select Luq Barcoo, CB, San Diego State University. 6-1, 175.
The Skins add some depth at corner to augment their offseason haul. This Combine snub led FBS in '19 in picks with 9.
Per Pro Football Ready 11/18/19 (Ryan Roberts):
The 2020 NFL Draft class is littered with top-level cornerback talent that rivals the best position group in the entire class. With guys like Jeffrey Okudah and Shaun Wade (Ohio State), Bryce Hall (Virginia), Kristian Fulton (LSU), Trevon Diggs (Alabama) and Paulson Adebo (Stanford), this class has the potential to go down as one of the deeper classes in recent memory.
It’s time to add one more talented cornerback prospect to the depth of this tremendous class.
San Diego State senior cornerback Luq Barcoo is quietly having a potential All-American season for the Aztecs team. The senior currently sits tied for second in college football with seven interceptions.
He is tied for second place with University of Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr., trailing Texas Tech defensive back Douglas Coleman III by one.
To go along with the seven interceptions for Barcoo, the 6’1” 175 pounder has also recorded 18 pass breakups for good measure. His ball skills have been on full display this entire season so far.
During his first year on campus, Barcoo would flash his ability on defense that is a part of a very solid unit overall. As a part-time player, he recorded one interception and five pass breakups along with 20 tackles. The 2018 season would serve as a small taste into what we should expect from Barcoo this season, and boy has he been impressive thus far.
His length immediately pops off the screen. He is every bit the listed 6’1” and has some very long arms to boot. He uses that length frequently throughout the route to stay in phase. He seems to always be in proper position, having the ability to make a play on the football.
At the catch point is where Barcoo becomes a special football player. His experience at the wide receiver position pays off big time, allowing for some spectacular plays through the catch point. He flashes solid hands and concentration to create turnovers through the point of contact.
Luq Barcoo is far from just a cover specialist also. He has recorded 44 tackles on the season, five for loss. He is an aggressive player who has no problem throwing around his weight in the run game. He profiles as a plus run defender as he continues to fill out his long frame.
The senior has been such a revelation thus far in 2019 that he has been named as a semi finalist for the Jim Thorpe award. This honor is annually presented to the most outstanding defensive back in college football. Luq Barcoo without a doubt deserves to be in that type of conversation, leading to even bigger honors down the road.
The Skins add some depth at corner to augment their offseason haul. This Combine snub led FBS in '19 in picks with 9.
Per Pro Football Ready 11/18/19 (Ryan Roberts):
The 2020 NFL Draft class is littered with top-level cornerback talent that rivals the best position group in the entire class. With guys like Jeffrey Okudah and Shaun Wade (Ohio State), Bryce Hall (Virginia), Kristian Fulton (LSU), Trevon Diggs (Alabama) and Paulson Adebo (Stanford), this class has the potential to go down as one of the deeper classes in recent memory.
It’s time to add one more talented cornerback prospect to the depth of this tremendous class.
San Diego State senior cornerback Luq Barcoo is quietly having a potential All-American season for the Aztecs team. The senior currently sits tied for second in college football with seven interceptions.
He is tied for second place with University of Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr., trailing Texas Tech defensive back Douglas Coleman III by one.
To go along with the seven interceptions for Barcoo, the 6’1” 175 pounder has also recorded 18 pass breakups for good measure. His ball skills have been on full display this entire season so far.
During his first year on campus, Barcoo would flash his ability on defense that is a part of a very solid unit overall. As a part-time player, he recorded one interception and five pass breakups along with 20 tackles. The 2018 season would serve as a small taste into what we should expect from Barcoo this season, and boy has he been impressive thus far.
His length immediately pops off the screen. He is every bit the listed 6’1” and has some very long arms to boot. He uses that length frequently throughout the route to stay in phase. He seems to always be in proper position, having the ability to make a play on the football.
At the catch point is where Barcoo becomes a special football player. His experience at the wide receiver position pays off big time, allowing for some spectacular plays through the catch point. He flashes solid hands and concentration to create turnovers through the point of contact.
Luq Barcoo is far from just a cover specialist also. He has recorded 44 tackles on the season, five for loss. He is an aggressive player who has no problem throwing around his weight in the run game. He profiles as a plus run defender as he continues to fill out his long frame.
The senior has been such a revelation thus far in 2019 that he has been named as a semi finalist for the Jim Thorpe award. This honor is annually presented to the most outstanding defensive back in college football. Luq Barcoo without a doubt deserves to be in that type of conversation, leading to even bigger honors down the road.
@NoleinATL Nice pick with Cephus...They weren't kidding about the depth of this WR class!
I'm having a hard time finding quality analysis for some of these non-Power 5 prospects. You're up.
I'm having a hard time finding quality analysis for some of these non-Power 5 prospects. You're up.
With the 163rd pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Chicago Bears select
Jabari Zuniga DE Sprayberry Highschool
Talented kid coming out of HS, could make an impact for Bears opposite Mack
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Robert Quinn
Overview
With Zuniga, you either buy into the flashes or you don't. He's an explosive athlete who has been splashing and flashing since his freshman season but failed to fully reach the promise his traits and explosiveness implied. A monstrous start to 2019 was truncated due to a high ankle sprain. He's disruptive in the gaps but is not stout enough at the point of attack. He has edge-rushing ability but could find stardom as a reduced rusher in sub-packages, where he's craftier and more capable of exploiting athletic mismatches. His boogeyman qualities could spring themselves upon unsuspecting offenses relatively early in his career, but his grade is based on projection over production.
Strengths
Jabari Zuniga DE Sprayberry Highschool
Talented kid coming out of HS, could make an impact for Bears opposite Mack
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Robert Quinn
Overview
With Zuniga, you either buy into the flashes or you don't. He's an explosive athlete who has been splashing and flashing since his freshman season but failed to fully reach the promise his traits and explosiveness implied. A monstrous start to 2019 was truncated due to a high ankle sprain. He's disruptive in the gaps but is not stout enough at the point of attack. He has edge-rushing ability but could find stardom as a reduced rusher in sub-packages, where he's craftier and more capable of exploiting athletic mismatches. His boogeyman qualities could spring themselves upon unsuspecting offenses relatively early in his career, but his grade is based on projection over production.
Strengths
- Long-limbed, athletic frame with chiseled upper body
- Looks the part of an NFL "dude." Played at a variety of spots up and down the line
- Flashes playmaking talent on the other side of the line
- Able to ravage gaps with exciting snap quickness
- Rangy, fast and long to close and corral in pursuit
- Displays adequate toughness at four- or five-technique inside
- Can slow feet then reignite upfield burst to sneak tackles
- Scary potential as interior rusher in sub-packages
- Fluid to punch, separate and race past guard's edge
- Suddenness has yet to be fully developed and exploited
- Lacks sand in lower body for sturdy base
- Gets driven off his spot by power
- Has difficulty unhinging from feisty tight ends
- Hasn't proven to have definitive positional fit
- Speed-to-power rush charge tends to run out of gas
- Doesn't get enough hip sink to consistently dip and flatten to QB
- Late activation of rush counters turning sacks into pressures
- Missed seven games and was never 100 percent after high ankle sprain in Week 3
- Below-average awareness and instincts
With the 164th pick, the Dallas Cowboys select Charlie Taumoepeau, TE, Portland State University. 6-2, 244.
The Cowboys largely star-studded roster is rather pedestrian at tight end. Here they get a small-school gem to improve the talent at that position.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Makes things happen with the ball in his hands. Showcases good vision and body control as a runner. Natural movement skills with good fluidity when running routes. Competes as a blocker and he was able to move bodies at Portland State. Hands appear natural and he greets the football with proper technique. Knows how to find space in zone and make himself available.
CONS: Modest physical traits in terms of size, length and athletic ability. Isn’t likely to find much success separating from man coverage in the NFL. Separation quickness is pedestrian. A lot of manufactured touches in college and that’s likely how he will find production in the NFL. Lacks explosiveness. Made literally no contributions as a vertical receiving in college. Not a contested catch winner and he struggles to win through contact. Not immune to drops.
BEST TRAIT - Yards After Catch
WORST TRAIT - Physical Upside
RED FLAGS - Missed four games over the last two seasons with injuries
Portland State tight end Charlie Taumepeau profiles as an h-back at the next level where he can be used in a variety of spots in the offensive formation and hide some of his restrictions as both a receiver and blocker. Taumepeau’s ability to make things happen after the catch gives him appeal as a check down option and leaking into space. With that said, his modest athletic ability does not project him favorably to creating separation in the passing game and he isn’t consistent playing through contact and finishing at the catch point. There is a course for Taumoepeau in the NFL for an offense that wants to carry an h-back type player as long as he can get his work done on special teams but his ceiling is limited.
@NoleinATL Now you know how it feels to dabble on the dark side.
You're up.
The Cowboys largely star-studded roster is rather pedestrian at tight end. Here they get a small-school gem to improve the talent at that position.
Per The Draft Network (Marino):
PROS: Makes things happen with the ball in his hands. Showcases good vision and body control as a runner. Natural movement skills with good fluidity when running routes. Competes as a blocker and he was able to move bodies at Portland State. Hands appear natural and he greets the football with proper technique. Knows how to find space in zone and make himself available.
CONS: Modest physical traits in terms of size, length and athletic ability. Isn’t likely to find much success separating from man coverage in the NFL. Separation quickness is pedestrian. A lot of manufactured touches in college and that’s likely how he will find production in the NFL. Lacks explosiveness. Made literally no contributions as a vertical receiving in college. Not a contested catch winner and he struggles to win through contact. Not immune to drops.
BEST TRAIT - Yards After Catch
WORST TRAIT - Physical Upside
RED FLAGS - Missed four games over the last two seasons with injuries
Portland State tight end Charlie Taumepeau profiles as an h-back at the next level where he can be used in a variety of spots in the offensive formation and hide some of his restrictions as both a receiver and blocker. Taumepeau’s ability to make things happen after the catch gives him appeal as a check down option and leaking into space. With that said, his modest athletic ability does not project him favorably to creating separation in the passing game and he isn’t consistent playing through contact and finishing at the catch point. There is a course for Taumoepeau in the NFL for an offense that wants to carry an h-back type player as long as he can get his work done on special teams but his ceiling is limited.
@NoleinATL Now you know how it feels to dabble on the dark side.
You're up.
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With the 165th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Jacksonville Jaguars select
Isaiah Hodgins WR Oregon State
Need more depth, got to get Gardner or Jameis (pull the trigger you chumps)
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Geronimo Allison
Overview
Potential inside/outside target with below average speed but outstanding ball skills, instincts and will to make the contested catch. Scouts must balance his impressive pass-catching talent against issues eluding press-man and NFL-caliber coverage. Hodgins is astutely aware of coverage location in all areas of the field and adjusts accordingly. He's clearly more skilled than opponents when the ball is in the air, but the catch space will be tighter and the challenges more fierce as a pro. He needs to refine his route-running and may need to be moved and stacked in bunch sets for release freedom, but Hodgins has the ability to see the field in multiple-wideout sets as a middle-round pick.
Strengths
Isaiah Hodgins WR Oregon State
Need more depth, got to get Gardner or Jameis (pull the trigger you chumps)
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Geronimo Allison
Overview
Potential inside/outside target with below average speed but outstanding ball skills, instincts and will to make the contested catch. Scouts must balance his impressive pass-catching talent against issues eluding press-man and NFL-caliber coverage. Hodgins is astutely aware of coverage location in all areas of the field and adjusts accordingly. He's clearly more skilled than opponents when the ball is in the air, but the catch space will be tighter and the challenges more fierce as a pro. He needs to refine his route-running and may need to be moved and stacked in bunch sets for release freedom, but Hodgins has the ability to see the field in multiple-wideout sets as a middle-round pick.
Strengths
- NFL size and competitiveness to play outside
- Takes smart angles back to the throw on first two levels
- Allows double moves to ripen
- Great awareness to protect the catch with his frame
- Squares his numbers to the quarterback over the middle
- Instinctive ball skills and body control
- Delays showing hands on fade routes as long as possible
- Good luck finding drops on tape
- Tremendous ball tracker on the move
- Able to create late catch space tight to the boundary
- High points it like a rebounder
Weaknesses
- Has issues against talented press-man
- Release will be mirrored and stalled
- Excessive stutter release needs to be quicker
- Below average short area twitch to lose coverage
- Doesn't have enough speed to worry a cornerback
- Long cornerbacks phase up his sideline routes
- Extended gather steps to open on comebacks
- Needs additional play strength to battle at the top of the route
Sources Tell Us
"He's a 4.6 guy (in the 40) which worries me because cornerbacks on this level just sit on everything underneath if they don't think you can get by them. Love the hands, though. He's automatic." -- Area scout for AFC team
With the 166th pick, the Detroit Lions select Antonio Gibson, ATH, University of Memphis. 6-1, 223.
The Lions' offense has been underwhelming in recent years, but here they get an athletic Swiss Army knife to inject some pizzazz into their attack. Gibson was listed as a RB under the awesome Mike Norvell at Memphis, and I project him as a better version of Theo Reddick: a third-down back/slot receiver who's a demon returning kicks.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Vision - His open field instincts are strong to be two steps ahead of tacklers. In the backfield, he was primarily given a gap to hit and charged with pressing it, not a lot of cat and mouse or gap manipulation with second level defenders. Learning curve here is undetermined but expect best results early on in gap/power concepts.
Feet/COD Skills - For a big fella, this dude has some really impressive quickness. Balance, ability to string together cuts and ultimately his stride variance is impressive for a back, never mind him doing it at 223 pounds. He's not a jitterbug but he's plant and explode and dash back across face of defenders consistently.
Durability - Workload is about as slim as you can get after usage as a WR for tons of reps. Ability to serve as a game closer or constantly lean and wear out defenders in undetermined — but the bright side is there's nearly zero tread on the tires for the sake of longevity. Absorbs body blows effectively.
Balance - His ability to transition out of cuts and keep functional strength and base established is really nice, leading to some explosive plays courtesy of pin-balling off tacklers. He's controlled with the football and isn't going to be brought down by a free arm or a haphazard cut tackle by corners in the secondary.
Pass Protection - We're starting from scratch here. If he wasn't in the backfield, he was in the slot and releasing into routes. He's got a great build for pass protection, given his body density and functional strength — but application to pass pro will be effectively like learning a new language for him given no exposure to it.
Elusiveness - Blend of burst, wiggle, head fakes, contact balance and vision aid him and present big challenges for defenders in the open field to try to rope him in. He'll drop a shoulder on defenders in the box and produces the power to run you over if you're not set or fail to bring the feet when you attempt to wrap him up.
Receiving Skills - Natural receiver and has an impressive resume here despite lack of length and small hands — gets the ball clean but ultimately limitations with hand size and catch radius make his transition to majority RB a no-brainer. His ball skill are excellent though and he's made big acrobatic catches over the MOF.
Short Yardage Skill - Power is here to churn out tough yardage but he doesn't have a ton of reps pressing the LOS and pushing the pile. His patience and ability to process push out of the mesh point is still something of an unknown and he'll likely need some patience here unless he's gifted a dynamic OL to push and reset the line.
Football IQ - If he's got the football in his hands, just let him cook — he's a natural play-maker and does really well in receiving game, as a rusher, in the kick game and more. The finer details of RB will need to be steadily fed to him but if the light bulb clicks on for him, he's got boatloads of potential as a feature back.
Effort - Impact on special teams and in the pass game make him a threat to touch the football routinely and stay on the field even as he's developing as a primary ball carrier. Like that he's willing to seek contact if needed and his after contact resume is really impressive to fight off tacklers and twist/ turn for extra yards.
---
Best Trait - Receiving Skills
Worst Trait - Production
Best Film - SMU (2019)
Worst Film - Temple (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Antonio Gibson is a fascinating blend of receiving skills and open field ability — his projection to the NFL level is a little murky due to just 33 carries, yet his field vision, wiggle and functional power as a runner all offer a lot of promise to a spread team who will afford him the same luxuries of light boxes and open spaces that Memphis did. This is an ultimate chess piece for an offense and, with the right blend of slot reps, screen action and rushing workload, he can be high impact.
@NoleinATL Your pick.
The Lions' offense has been underwhelming in recent years, but here they get an athletic Swiss Army knife to inject some pizzazz into their attack. Gibson was listed as a RB under the awesome Mike Norvell at Memphis, and I project him as a better version of Theo Reddick: a third-down back/slot receiver who's a demon returning kicks.
Per The Draft Network (Crabbs):
Vision - His open field instincts are strong to be two steps ahead of tacklers. In the backfield, he was primarily given a gap to hit and charged with pressing it, not a lot of cat and mouse or gap manipulation with second level defenders. Learning curve here is undetermined but expect best results early on in gap/power concepts.
Feet/COD Skills - For a big fella, this dude has some really impressive quickness. Balance, ability to string together cuts and ultimately his stride variance is impressive for a back, never mind him doing it at 223 pounds. He's not a jitterbug but he's plant and explode and dash back across face of defenders consistently.
Durability - Workload is about as slim as you can get after usage as a WR for tons of reps. Ability to serve as a game closer or constantly lean and wear out defenders in undetermined — but the bright side is there's nearly zero tread on the tires for the sake of longevity. Absorbs body blows effectively.
Balance - His ability to transition out of cuts and keep functional strength and base established is really nice, leading to some explosive plays courtesy of pin-balling off tacklers. He's controlled with the football and isn't going to be brought down by a free arm or a haphazard cut tackle by corners in the secondary.
Pass Protection - We're starting from scratch here. If he wasn't in the backfield, he was in the slot and releasing into routes. He's got a great build for pass protection, given his body density and functional strength — but application to pass pro will be effectively like learning a new language for him given no exposure to it.
Elusiveness - Blend of burst, wiggle, head fakes, contact balance and vision aid him and present big challenges for defenders in the open field to try to rope him in. He'll drop a shoulder on defenders in the box and produces the power to run you over if you're not set or fail to bring the feet when you attempt to wrap him up.
Receiving Skills - Natural receiver and has an impressive resume here despite lack of length and small hands — gets the ball clean but ultimately limitations with hand size and catch radius make his transition to majority RB a no-brainer. His ball skill are excellent though and he's made big acrobatic catches over the MOF.
Short Yardage Skill - Power is here to churn out tough yardage but he doesn't have a ton of reps pressing the LOS and pushing the pile. His patience and ability to process push out of the mesh point is still something of an unknown and he'll likely need some patience here unless he's gifted a dynamic OL to push and reset the line.
Football IQ - If he's got the football in his hands, just let him cook — he's a natural play-maker and does really well in receiving game, as a rusher, in the kick game and more. The finer details of RB will need to be steadily fed to him but if the light bulb clicks on for him, he's got boatloads of potential as a feature back.
Effort - Impact on special teams and in the pass game make him a threat to touch the football routinely and stay on the field even as he's developing as a primary ball carrier. Like that he's willing to seek contact if needed and his after contact resume is really impressive to fight off tacklers and twist/ turn for extra yards.
---
Best Trait - Receiving Skills
Worst Trait - Production
Best Film - SMU (2019)
Worst Film - Temple (2019)
Red Flags - None
Player Summary - Antonio Gibson is a fascinating blend of receiving skills and open field ability — his projection to the NFL level is a little murky due to just 33 carries, yet his field vision, wiggle and functional power as a runner all offer a lot of promise to a spread team who will afford him the same luxuries of light boxes and open spaces that Memphis did. This is an ultimate chess piece for an offense and, with the right blend of slot reps, screen action and rushing workload, he can be high impact.
@NoleinATL Your pick.
With the 167th pick the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the Buffalo Bills select
Evan Weaver ILB University of California
Depth, possible future starter, with development -plays the kind of game coaches will love and he will make a roster
Overview
Rambunctious tackle sponge and perennial grudge holder who lives to prove people wrong. Weaver certainly doesn't look the part of All-American inside 'backer in the uniform, but he lives for football and plays every snap with urgency. He can be patient but has the instincts and play-recognition skills to beat blockers to the spot. He is slow-twitch, and there is no question that his athletic limitations will be harder to disguise against NFL competition. A lack of traits could limit his upside, but he has the intangibles and toughness to compete as a backup box banger in a 3-4 alignment.
Strengths
Evan Weaver ILB University of California
Depth, possible future starter, with development -plays the kind of game coaches will love and he will make a roster
Overview
Rambunctious tackle sponge and perennial grudge holder who lives to prove people wrong. Weaver certainly doesn't look the part of All-American inside 'backer in the uniform, but he lives for football and plays every snap with urgency. He can be patient but has the instincts and play-recognition skills to beat blockers to the spot. He is slow-twitch, and there is no question that his athletic limitations will be harder to disguise against NFL competition. A lack of traits could limit his upside, but he has the intangibles and toughness to compete as a backup box banger in a 3-4 alignment.
Strengths
- Outlandish production dating all the way back early high school
- Great teammate and elite competitor
- Instinctive with elite recognition of blocking schemes
- Has the patience to not get trapped or goaded by misdirection
- Hustles to stay ahead of backside cut-off blocks
- Feels blocks and alters flow angles when necessary
- Finds and fills his run fits on a consistent basis
- Has aggressive, heavy hands waiting for climbing linebackers
- Punches and plays off blocks with consistency
- Eyes play past blockers and locks in on where the ball is
- Motor and pursuit seem unfazed by contact
- Makes plays on the football in passing game
- Aware of incoming traffic from short zone and squeezes the route
Weaknesses
- Won't be a head-turner at the beach
- Built like an undersized center with stubby arms and fleshy midsection
- Lack of speed offers little margin for error in diagnosing the play
- Lower body tightness creates movement limitations
- Can't stop-start with any twitch
- Lacks the agility to circumvent traffic quickly when scraping
- Needs to step further downhill to blow up pulling guards and collapse the crease
- Plays upright, leading to occasional inconsistencies as open-field tackler
- Not sudden enough to be an NFL blitzer
With the 168th pick, the Philadelphia Eagles select Bryce Huff, LB, University of Memphis. 6-3, 255.
Philly enhances its depth at the 2nd level with the versatile Huff.
Per The Huddle Report (Drew Boylhart):
STRENGTHS
Bryce is your sleeper pass rusher in this draft and his play reminds me a lot of Bears Khalil Mack. He is strong and has excellent explosion to the play. His quickness off the ball and explosiveness is unique, to the few true pass rushers at the next level. He has quick feet and has enough flexibility to make that turn at the top of his pass rush and sack the quarterback. Bryce is excellent at stopping the run and shedding blocks to make tackles in the hole. He has a high football IQ and shows leadership skills through his play on the field working well with his teammates. Like I stated before he is a sleeper pass rusher with the explosiveness similar to Kahlil Mack.
CONCERNS
Teams will be concerned about his size although it is equal to Khalil, the quality of competition, once again equal, stats are comparable but all that means nothing. Turn on the film and watch it. Bryce is stuck right now in some sort of loop of marketing/media mediocrity and as of this writing hasn’t even been invited to the Senior Bowl. He has been invited to the Shrine game and it would not surprise me to see him eventually get invited to the Senior Bowl. His size will be an issue at first and teams will be interested in his ability to play one of the linebacker positions and this will affect his draft status. That being said, every team he goes up against has to account for him and double team him.
BOTTOM LINE 1.94
When Khalil came out I gave him a second-round grade because I thought for sure, teams were going to try and make him a linebacker instead of attacking the line of scrimmage. That will be an issue for Bryce also, and the truth is he also needs to attack the line of scrimmage to be effective and impacting. He is very smart and has all the tools to be an impact player with some more technique work, an impact pass rusher too. Right now, he is a sleeper but the truth is I don’t believe he will be by the time we get to the draft. As far as I’m concerned, Bryce is one of the top pass rushers in this draft and the fact that he plays the run as well as he rushers the passer should make everyone excited about him as I am. All I can say is go ahead, turn on the film, I dare you to tell me this kid is not an impact player. Watch how Penn State doubles him and runs away from him in their bowl game. Watch him be stout against the run and not give up his assignment just to get stats and sacks. Go ahead, I dare you. Remember size matters when it comes to evaluating players for the draft but not when it comes to impact on the field. Impact comes in all sizes.
You're up @NoleinATL.
Philly enhances its depth at the 2nd level with the versatile Huff.
Per The Huddle Report (Drew Boylhart):
STRENGTHS
Bryce is your sleeper pass rusher in this draft and his play reminds me a lot of Bears Khalil Mack. He is strong and has excellent explosion to the play. His quickness off the ball and explosiveness is unique, to the few true pass rushers at the next level. He has quick feet and has enough flexibility to make that turn at the top of his pass rush and sack the quarterback. Bryce is excellent at stopping the run and shedding blocks to make tackles in the hole. He has a high football IQ and shows leadership skills through his play on the field working well with his teammates. Like I stated before he is a sleeper pass rusher with the explosiveness similar to Kahlil Mack.
CONCERNS
Teams will be concerned about his size although it is equal to Khalil, the quality of competition, once again equal, stats are comparable but all that means nothing. Turn on the film and watch it. Bryce is stuck right now in some sort of loop of marketing/media mediocrity and as of this writing hasn’t even been invited to the Senior Bowl. He has been invited to the Shrine game and it would not surprise me to see him eventually get invited to the Senior Bowl. His size will be an issue at first and teams will be interested in his ability to play one of the linebacker positions and this will affect his draft status. That being said, every team he goes up against has to account for him and double team him.
BOTTOM LINE 1.94
When Khalil came out I gave him a second-round grade because I thought for sure, teams were going to try and make him a linebacker instead of attacking the line of scrimmage. That will be an issue for Bryce also, and the truth is he also needs to attack the line of scrimmage to be effective and impacting. He is very smart and has all the tools to be an impact player with some more technique work, an impact pass rusher too. Right now, he is a sleeper but the truth is I don’t believe he will be by the time we get to the draft. As far as I’m concerned, Bryce is one of the top pass rushers in this draft and the fact that he plays the run as well as he rushers the passer should make everyone excited about him as I am. All I can say is go ahead, turn on the film, I dare you to tell me this kid is not an impact player. Watch how Penn State doubles him and runs away from him in their bowl game. Watch him be stout against the run and not give up his assignment just to get stats and sacks. Go ahead, I dare you. Remember size matters when it comes to evaluating players for the draft but not when it comes to impact on the field. Impact comes in all sizes.
You're up @NoleinATL.
With the 169th pick in the 2020 PGSF NFL Mock Draft the New Orleans Saints select
David Woodward, LB, Utah State
A few injury concerns (which is HUGE this year with no medicals) but if he checks out, solid back up that will contribute on special teams
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Woodward doesn't look the part of NFL linebacker with short limbs and an underdeveloped frame. He has below-average athletic traits and lacks the speed to range from sideline to sideline. However, he's instinctive and plays with a bird dog's sense of tracking with a consistent ability to find the football. He's active and tough but may not have the necessary physical tools to translate into an NFL job. First and foremost, he has to be given clearance by NFL medical staffs at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Strengths
David Woodward, LB, Utah State
A few injury concerns (which is HUGE this year with no medicals) but if he checks out, solid back up that will contribute on special teams
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
Overview
Woodward doesn't look the part of NFL linebacker with short limbs and an underdeveloped frame. He has below-average athletic traits and lacks the speed to range from sideline to sideline. However, he's instinctive and plays with a bird dog's sense of tracking with a consistent ability to find the football. He's active and tough but may not have the necessary physical tools to translate into an NFL job. First and foremost, he has to be given clearance by NFL medical staffs at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Strengths
- Gritty and willing to stick his nose into the noise
- Always around the football
- Forced six fumbles over last two seasons
- Eats tape to find blockers' tendencies
- Quick to spin out of block and search for tackle
- Short-area burst to scrape, close and tackle
- Pursues with adequate leverage and plus body control
- High success rate to finish what he starts as tackler
- Averaged 13.3 tackles per game in 2019, recording 24 against Wake Forest
- Sees the field and squeezes the routes in coverage
Weaknesses
- Frame is underdeveloped with short arms and lack of mass
- May not be able to add weight and maintain same speed
- Athletic ability falls below NFL expectations
- Plays quick but doesn't have speed to range
- Caught too many blocks against LSU this season
- Plays too tall from his second level perch
- Will need to take more downhill shots into gaps
- Fractured vertebrae in high school and had season-ending injury in 2019
- Has suffered a couple of concussions
Sources Tell Us
"He's got a bunch of medical flags that might be hard for him to overcome." -- Area scout for NFC team
