NEPatriotsDraft.com – 2017 NFL Draft http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com Your source for New England Patriots and NFL draft news. Sun, 17 Jun 2018 19:39:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 143755932 Early, Top 100 NCAAF Players Going Into The 2018-19 Season http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/early-top-100-ncaaf-players-going-into-the-2018-19-season.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/early-top-100-ncaaf-players-going-into-the-2018-19-season.html#comments Sun, 17 Jun 2018 19:39:17 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36630 NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler So all draftniks like to stay ahead of the curve and I’m no different. Anyone can tell you who’s, who in April. A few things I take pride in is identifying the best prospects early. Studying them on and off the field to try an eliminate as much risk as […]

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So all draftniks like to stay ahead of the curve and I’m no different. Anyone can tell you who’s, who in April. A few things I take pride in is identifying the best prospects early. Studying them on and off the field to try an eliminate as much risk as possible. Finally, hopefully, hitting on as many of my draft grades as possible. That said it’s June and I’m not too worried about “Player X should be ahead of Player Y” at this point. I just want to get them in the right neighborhood and worry about what specific’s later. This is really about early projections, a first look. I’ll also place the PTP initials as a marking for kinds of players New England goes after, Patriot-Type Players.

1)Nick Bosa Rush/OSU – Bosa, the “White Panther” is one of the more complete prospects to come along in the last decade. I remember hearing about and seeing Nick play a few years ago, its really something he lived up to expectations and might be even better than his brother Joey. When’s the last time we had two brothers, who were dominant players on the same side on the ball, in the same sport?  Believe it or not Joey wasn’t a slam dunk among some “draftniks”years ago. Joey, like Nick is a “don’t ignore the obvious” player. Their both very similar in terms of size and strength but Nick looks a little quicker off the line and a better overall athlete. He flashes some serious bend for someone who is 6’5/275. Bosa can turn speed into power when he explodes off the line and can use it inside on twist/stunts. And like his brother he’s a very good technician and wins with great hand placement and usage. Bosa also has very good lateral quickness to cross his opponents face or move down the line in run pursuit. He uses that quick lil side step on his swim move as well. 97 for OSU can win inside/outside and from different techniques along the line. His + motor is also on display almost every snap. He’s going top 3-5, if not #1 overall.

 

2)Ed Oliver IDL/Houston – Oliver is another player I’ve been watching since high school. To be honest, he’s been my favorite player to watch over the last few years. At times he looked like a young Aaron Donald and that comparison holds true today. Oliver fires off the ball with superior quickness. It’s a pleasure to watch him transfer his power from lower to his upper have. That same lower half that can squat 650lbs also moves like a linebacker. He is fantastic at using his built-in, natural leverage to move and control the line. Oliver is always in control of gap/space and most of the time, his man. He’s a sensational run defender. His pass rush is nasty too. You can’t help but watch in awe at how he uses his shoulder to knife and wedge by a defender. He has violent hands and does a good job at keeping himself clean with swats and chops. He’s his own player but you can’t help but think Donald when he unleashes his “bob n swat” and club/rip. Oliver’s awareness is also legit and more than evident in the run game. He looks like he can play in any scheme and make an impact in that system from day 1. Sure he has all the athleticism you want but its his motor, heart that really take his game to another level. There’s no shortage of “freaks” in sports but its hunger, drive and commitment that make some truly great. Oliver checks all those boxes and brings great production as well. Like his counterpart on the defensive line, Nick Bosa. He’ll be taken in the top 3-5 picks, if not #1 overall in next years draft.

 

3)Rashan Gary Rush/Michigan – Gary is another player that just looks different. You can’t help but notice and follow him when watching him play. He’s 6’5/280+ but he’s an easy, smooth mover. He looks like a big outside linebacker at times flying around the field tbh. There might questions about his true position or if he has one. Not a concern for me. Give me talent and I’ll worry about “positions” later. Gary has produced from multiple techniques and I don’t see why he can’t do that at the next level to take advantage of certain matchups. He has the speed/power to beat tackles around the corner and quickness to explode past guards inside. When I watch him rush the QB I see nice lateral quickness and strong hands. He can deliver a quick stun from a punch and is a handful when he gets them inside. The athleticism he has just isn’t fair for a guy his size and he has plenty of strength to go along with that. That’s probably the first thing you notice, his raw power. It looks like Gary could play almost anywhere if his game continues to evolve but a few extra pounds and he has a job as 3-tech for sure. If his play does take another step he has a chance to be taken anywhere in the lottery.

 

4)Raekwon Davis IDL/Alabama – Davis is an imposing athlete at 6’7/310 but its his martial arts type handwork and ability to get inside leverage that makes him such an impressive player. Davis has active, violent hands that are always moving and working towards his ultimate goal. Sacking the QB. He strikes defenders with accurate chops, swats and clubs before delivering a rip move or bull rush to finish the job. He also has some push/pull to his game as well. 1 on 1 he’s a nightmare to guard for slower interior offensive linemen. I would like to see a little more “churn” and power from his lower half when engaged but he’s a great prospect nonetheless. Especially if you’re a looking for a 3/5 technique that gets after the QB. He’s the definition of disruption. He had almost 20 sacks/tackle for loss last year (10TFL & 8.5 Sacks). Another year like that and hes a lock for the top 10-15. Should be noted he shot himself after/while watching the Mayweather/McGregor fight last year.

 

5)Andraez “Greedy” Williams CB/LSU – #29 for LSU has #1 CB written all over him and at times has the “it” you see in special players. Williams  has the size (6’2), speed but also has that quick twitch at the line, + foot quickness. Effortless hip flips and transition. He’s very comfortable in press and shows some nuance in the physicality he brings in that department. He’s very subtle but does a great job at using body weight to feel and move receivers off their spot without using his arms in close quarters. And when he does use his arms he does a sweet job at hiding them and not extending to draw attention. Williams seems at home in tight quarters and does a very good job at reading his man to make a play on the ball. He brings that same awareness and savvy when reading the QB from a distance. I talked about his quick twitch earlier and his zone/off coverage play highlights that. Between his patience and burst, a QB must have the eyes and arm strength if they want to test him when he’s off the ball. He shows + instincts for such a young player and looks like a future play maker. Greedy will be a 21 year old rookie which is gravy. Williams sample size is small but another year like 2017 with 10 PD/6 INT and he’s going in the lottery.

 

6)Clelin Ferrell Rush/Clemson – There’s a great chance Ferrell would have been a lottery pick a few months ago and he has a real chance at making that happen in 2019. Ferrell is superb blend of power, speed and length. One thing that’s always impressed me when watching Ferrell is his snap awareness and get off. He’s great at jumping the count but has a very formidable get off in general. He’s inside his opponents pads before the tackles knows what hit him. Ferrell is terrific at exploding off the line with 3 steps, getting inside to create leverage and use his length to maximize it. Turning his speed into power. He also can rush 1/2 man, test the edge and runs the arc with real beauty. He also shows decent handwork displaying a nice chop/rip combo. You can’t help but respect that part of his game which is a great set up for his spin move to beat you inside. His pass rush is his biggest asset but he’s a very good run defender. He also shows good awareness diagnosing misdirection and has gap integrity and the ability to control his space. Ferrell is a big boy at 6’5/260 and has a frame that can handle more muscle. He’ll be a 21 year old rookie with production and upside in his favor. as well. It’s hard to envision him slipping out of the lottery.

 

7)Montez Sweat Rush/Miss St- Like Ferrell, Sweat has an impressive physique at 6’6/250 that is capable of handling a more muscle, which he’ll need going forward. Sweat is another guy with a small sample size but the traits his demonstrated last year can’t be ignored. He doesn’t have a large arsenal of moves just yet but that didn’t stop him from being the most dangerous pass rusher in the S.E.C.  last year. Right now Sweat wins with quickness, balance and awareness. That last one, awareness might be his best asset in terms of getting to the QB. Sweat is very plugged-in and quick to recognize when his man is out of position to make a counter move inside. He’s a very smooth player who moves effortlessly around the field. At times he shows off some neat hand work and he go to moves are a long arm or stab, with a pull/snatch at the end of the move. Here he beats first round prospect Greg Little by getting underneath him, extending the long arm before pulling him towards him. That’s a pretty admirable show of strength with one hand to boot. I watched him have more than a few + rushes getting underneath his man like he did here. Sweat had a combined 26 TFL (tackle for loss) and Sacks last year in the S.E.C. Sweat also lined up at different spots along the line and probably could play either defensive end or outside linebacker.

https://twitter.com/j_fid/status/1008207039422783488

 

8)Jeffrey Simmons IDL/Miss St – Simmons is another big boy with a good first step that plays with very good hand usage and power. His handwork and long arms give him the ability to stack and shed to make plays in the backfield or give some chase down the line. He really is a bull dog out there. Very impressive paws that keep him clean. Consistency is the key for him and not just on the field. Nothing will help him like another quiet, productive year at Mississippi St. Simmons let himself get caught up in some local drama a few years ago. You can read about it here Simmons  A relative of his, a women, was fighting with another women when Simmons jumped in and put his hands on the female. He threw several punches while she was on the ground and was charged with simple assault and disturbing the peace by fighting. Both are misdemeanor charges. Simmons, by all accounts has stayed out of trouble since then and needs to continue to do so going forward.

 

9)Dexter Lawrence IDL/Clemson – Lawrence is a freaky mini-mountain in the middle that is going to be a nightmare for interior linemen for years to come. Lawrence moves like a 300lb pounder and is scheme proof. He can play in any system and you can move him around to create + matchups for the defense. No reason he has to get pigeonholed at nose tackle. His quickness and power will translate to a few snaps at 3 tech as well as 4i. He has soft, quiet feet and doesn’t move like someone who is that heavy. He also plays with a + motor. He’s plug & play foundation piece day 1. Lawrence brings the power that we saw last year in Vita Vea but plays with better balance.

 

10) (PTP) Zach Allen Rush/Boston College – Allen, 6’5/275-280, is a big, thick defensive end from CT and looks like another stud off the line from B.C. He’s versatile and will make an impact in both the run and pass game. I described his game before as to playing with a readiness/awareness that exposes the work he does in the film room. I think he has big upside in the run game. He’s not fooled by misdirection runs and can keep his outside shoulder clean to reset himself if he needs to. He’s only going to get stronger as he fills out. His pass rush game is a + as well. He has length and knows how to use it. He’ll throw accurate stabs/punches, can move a ton with his bull rush and has a spin to counter overzealous linemen favoring the outside. Allen should be on every Patriot fans radar because he fits the mold Belichick has proven to favor over the years. Allen looks like a player still getting used to his body (size/strength) so I expect his game has another level this year.

 

11)Greg Little LT/Ole Miss – Little looks the part with his enormous size and length and at times plays like a future pro-bowl player. He shows natural strength and is able to reset after taking on a heavy bull rush from the best the SEC has to offer. He also plays with very good lateral movement to carry himself across the line and field. At times Little executes the little things the way players are supposed to be taught. Like firing off the ball, snapping his hips and paving whats in front of him. Simple stuff, ya know? He also displays very good but inconsistent hand work. I would actually say the same about his footwork too. At times a bit sloppy and late. There not major concerns by any stretch and are already good but he could and probably will improve.

 

12)Devin White LB/LSU – White is a throwback linebacker that has sideline to sideline speed. 6’1/240 but moves like he’s 10lbs lighter. Looks like a bullet when blitzing up through the A/B gaps. Can drop back & clog up the swallow zone w/ his big body. White hits everything that moves w/ bad intentions. The former standout running back is a force in the middle & some teams will covet his skills come draft time as he’s a beast athletically as well. Because of his size, speed and strength White looks like he might be able to play a few different LB positions if asked to do so.

 

13)Jonah Williams LT/Alabama – You’ll hear many describe the prospect as a “dancing bear” and the term fits. Williams plays with very good balance and poise. He’s an athlete that excels in getting to and working in the 2nd level. A powerful blocker that has strong hands to kill any plan his opponent is bringing. His footwork overall seems pretty clean but I suspect he could tighten up his pass pro a bit. Like Little he’s a bit late at getting to his spot at times which leads defenders having multiple options in terms of a plan of attack. Both are so strong and are good enough athletes to cover it up, reset or survive long enough but it won’t fly in the NFL. Both need to activate their hands quicker and get ready to fight from the snap too.

 

14)Christian Wilkins IDL/Clemson – Wilkins surprised some by coming back this year, 2019 is absolutely loaded with talent and depth along the defensive line. That said Wilkins is a versatile big boy who plays inside/outside & moves like someone who weighs a lot lighter. Wilkins is very agile & nimble for a 310+ guy. Able to get skinny to flash through gaps or muscle through defenders. Wilkins has strong hands & shows + instincts on the field. He can play in a 34/43 & looks built for a multiple team up front. When it comes to position groups Clemson’s defensive line will be watched as closely as any. Even in a ultra talented unit like that Wilkins has stood out and own his own for years.

 

15) (PTP) DeAndre Baker CB/Georgia – From Miami, Baker is smart player that rarely ever looks confused or out of position. He does a great job of being physical in route & at the catch point. He’s very subtle about using his hands, arms during a route & forcing a wr away from the ball or towards the sideline. Like others on the list Baker didn’t allow a TD last year and had a combined 12 INT/PD but also made big plays when the team needed him most. UG’s system isn’t an easy one to master and I’m not saying he has but the confidence, awareness he plays with speak volumes about how prepared he is.

 

16) (PTP) Trey Adams LT/Washington – If Adams stays healthy and plays to his capabilities he could be the first tackle taken off the board. He plays the game with a nastiness of a Taylor Lewan (who hes often compared to) and has the athleticism of a Nate Solder. He plays the game with a passion thats evident from the moment you press play. Adams was just hitting his stride last year before he suffered a season ending knee injury. Adams was really doing what he had to in order to take his game to the next level. His footwork improved from his S.O. year and he looked a lot more comfortable playing in space and lower to the ground. He has plenty of areas to improve on but overall is a very good prospect.

 

17)  Justin Herbert QB/Oregon – Simply put Herbert has everything you want from a physical standpoint even though he doesn’t have a “rocket” arm. He’s very young at 20 (21 rookie) and has plenty of time to develop arm strength. Again not a huge concern. At times he looks balanced, poised and will deliver a sweet back shoulder or deep ball. He can also gash a defense for large chunks on designed runs or if the pocket breaks down. What I and frankly everyone else wants to see is if his processing improves and how quickly he can make the right read after the first one isn’t there. He also could clean a little hiccup he has in his motion. Which might be there because his body and mind aren’t quite caught up in terms mechanics and he’s not getting the ball out as quickly as he can.

 

18)Jalen Jelks Rush/Oregon – Jelks is a long, lean, good looking athlete. At times Jelks has explodes off the line with real force although I’d like to see him play a little lower. That would only help him eliminate anything for the offensive line to touch. Strength has to improve but in the few games Ive seen live & watched he’s not weak at all. In fact he’s playing out of position inside for Oregon. That will almost certainly change when he’s moved outside at the next level. That said he was a very good run defender last year holding his own inside against bigger bodies. Jelks is always aware, getting his hands up even if he doesn’t get the pass knocked down. If he matches those numbers or passes them from inside & you might have something special. Again playing in the interior at 3 technique/4i Jelks managed to compile 7 sacks, 10 QB hits, 30 hurries  and 8 passes knocked down.

 

19) (PTP) Shaq Quarterman LB/Miami – Shaq has looked like a player from day 1 at Miami. Smart, + instincts, always looking for trouble & brings it fast. Shaq might be a little under-rated right now in draft circles considering the package he is. Quarterman shows + vision, change of direction ability and the smarts to diagnose pre/post snap. He is a difference maker in the middle and sidelines but also has PD, TFL & a few sacks as well on his resume. You can tell he inspires confidence in the rest of the defense and it’s more than evident when they get hyped after he makes a play. He looks like a productive leader for Miami and can only help his stock this year coming up.

 

20)(PTP) David Edwards RT/Wisconsin – Edwards took the advice of former Cleveland Browns left tackle Joe Thomas and decided to come back to school. He’s part of a really good offensive line and Wisconsin team that should get plenty of pub this year. I suspect he’ll be a right tackle on the next level. He looks like an oversized tight end, well built throughout his entire body and it shows in his long, thick gorilla-like arms. He plays nasty and to the whistle almost every snap. He shows off some very nice footwork to mirror pass rushers and the hand skills to combat their moves. Edwards is a great prospect, throw on the OSU tape and you’ll see the type of player he is. He wasn’t perfect but handled almost everything they threw at him which was handling 3 future NFL players in Holmes, Lewis and Bosa. He looks more than solid in both pass pro and the run game. I’ll be looking to see how much polish his game has after this year. Specifically his 2nd level work when his block isn’t on a linear path.

(PTP) Jarrett Stidham QB/Auburn – Transfer from Baylor. At times Stidham looked like a poised, accurate QB who would let a play develop and deliver a strike on time. Mechanically looks comfortable, feet/base are about shoulder length. Has some zip and a quick release. Looks the part. Has some arm talent. He also has some wheels to eat up unaccounted for yards. He’ll look to build on that momentum and could make a huge jump in Gus Malzahn’s offense. He’s very smart w/ + football IQ. He’s accurate but could work on throwing his wr’s open a little better. Mobile & tough. Stidham has to improve his pocket awareness as well but he has plenty of tools to work w/.

 

22) Devin Bush LB/Michigan – There really aren’t many more intriguing players in the 2019 class then the Michigan defender. In a day and age when offenses are trying to stretch the defense and use every inch of the field its imperative to have players like Bush. He’s a jack of all trades type that excels the closer he is to the ball. Shutting down the outside stretch plays, firing up the A-gap to blitz and using his closing speed to shut down a ball carriers angle to the sidelines. Very good chase and pursuit player. He’s also an asset in the passing game. Bush can hang with TE’s down the seem, sniff out developing plays and cover RB’s in the flat. I expect him to fill the stat sheet again this year and make an impact everywhere.

 

 

23) (PTP) Lukas Denis DB/Boston College – Denis is a menace (I’m not apologizing for that)  defending the slot and for QB’s in general. He might be the best defender in the country in that area and has some of the best instincts as well. He’s an expert at reading the Qb and where he wants to go with the ball. Like Omar said, If you try him “you best not miss”. For some teams their base is nickel. A versatile defender like Denis, who you can move around in the secondary is a must have for a lot of defenses. Think Budda Baker and Tyrann Mathieu. Undersized, smart playmakers who can match up against different types of players on offense. If Denis fills that stat sheet again this year (7 INT, 10 PD, 2 FF) he’ll be a top 30-40 player next April.

 

24) Trayvon Mullen CB/Clemson – Mullen is as raw as it gets but he has freak potential. He’ll be a work in progress no matter the year he has but he could be the breakout star of the defensive class this year. Again he’s just oozing with speed and quickness to stay with any receiver. He has the length and size to challenge bigger targets but also is very fluid in his movements to hang with quicker pass catchers. He also has the ability to stop the play before it begins at the line. Again he has that brand new car smell so he has to clean up his overall technique but the sky is the limit.

 

25) David Montgomery RB/Iowa State – Montgomery is so fun to watch and can really do it all. He has that water-bug quickness that bounces around the field but also runs with real power that will easily break through arm tackles. He has the elusiveness, vision and rec ability to be a threat on any down. He runs hard and is very efficient. You’ll hear his name a ton this fall.

 

26)Daniel Jones QB/Duke – The North Carolina native is a team captain & former 2016 team MVP. Jones has prototype size, is a tough player that has experience running rpo. He has great mechanics from his base to his upper half. Everything always looks the same. His set-up, everything starts with his foot-firing lower half that is always moving & putting him in the best spot possible. His base, feet look almost Manning-esque  at times. Good arm that can adjust the heat on throws, has enough zip on his passes but probably could get stronger. At times his head moved just like a clock. I definitely want to see more of that, hopefully leading to a more consistent showing, he’s been up & down for stretches so far in his career. Still there are plenty of tools to work with & his overall game has improved each year from a leadership aspect. From a mental and physical standpoint Jones brings a lot to the table. Again like all the QB’s in this class. he needs a big year to seperate himself.

 

27) (PTP) Austin Bryant DE/Clemson – Bryant was draftable this year but like the rest of his teammates, he decided to come back to school for 2018. Bryant has the size New England likes at 6’5/270 & is a physical, worker-type that doesn’t just rush up field taking himself out of the play. Bryant will always look to disrupt a play if he can’t make a sack or tfl by getting his hands up to swat down a pass or control the edge so theres nowhere to go outside.

 

28) (PTP) Julian Love CB/Notre Dame – Love is a thickly built corner who looks like dependable open field tackler & someone who competes for everything. He displayed + route recognition in several games, on several plays I watched. He also looks comfortable in press, zone & off man & also played CB/S in high school. Love also has + ball skills and competes for everything. He had a combined 23 INT/PD last year.

 

29) Nate Herbig G/Stanford – At 6’4+/340 Herbig is a throwback guard that mauls people down & ruins their day when asked to pull across the line. At times reminds you of Will Hernandez who was a top 40 pick this year. Herbig has the physicality you want but also looks like a technician the way he executes some of his blocks.

 

30)  (PTP) Hjalte Froholdt G/Arkansas – If you watched Ragnow last year you couldn’t help but notice Froholdt. One of the best run blockers in the land, Froholdt should really get a chance to shine considering the system switch coming this fall. He might be doing more work in space, on the 2nd level and really get to show off his niche as an offensive linemen. Run blocking is his strength but he’s a great overall prospect.

 

31)Levonta Taylor CB/FSU – Taylor didn’t allow TD last year and was one of the best corners in the game. He’s sticky in coverage and displays playmaker traits. He had a rating of less than 15% when targeted in 2017-18. Since high school Taylor has had a keen ability to break off his man and make a play on the ball. You can’t help but notice how focused he is on the QB even if he’s not directly looking at or trying to read his eyes.

 

32) Josh Allen Rush/Kentucky – Allen reportedly put on 20lbs of muscle where it counts (his lower body) this spring which is key for several reasons. One Allen’s lack of power is noticeable of tape and it will only help his pass rush game. He already has a quick get off and gumby-like ability to bend around his man. He’s a versatile player that will also give + chase and pursuit all over the field. Allen has to develop his handwork and actually use them in attack. Still he’ll have three solid years of production, youth and upside in his favor next April.

 

33) Ahmmon Richards WR/Miami – Richards is a smooth route runner with the ability and quicks to get off press, work inside on slants, track the deep ball and along the sidelines. Richards isn’t the biggest wr but doesn’t lack toughness for someone that’s less than 195lbs. Richards has everything you want but has to stay healthy to show and adding a little muscle wouldn’t hurt as well. He can work all 3 levels and get in-out of his breaks in a hurry.

 

34) (PTP) Ben Benzschawel G/Wisconsin – Benz, as I call him, is a very consistent, reliable, powerful mauler in the run game. Fires off the ball and waste no time getting to the 2nd level. Powerful lower half. Good in pass pro but could improve. He has some versatility as well and could play OT in a pinch I suspect.  I mentioned the Badgers OL when talking about Edwards but the whole group is pretty stacked tbh. Benenzschawel is a really good, versatile player that can seemingly do it all. Balanced, good footwork & overall technique. He could probably plug & play in most teams system right away as a rookie. He’s a very good prospect.

 

35) (PTP) Nathan Stanley QB/Iowa – I have a feeling Stanley’s name will mentioned more & more as we get closer to the college football season starting. I’m a lot higher on Stanley than most it seems. He only has one year under his belt but tbh none of the 2018-19 QB’s have done enough to seperate themselves from the next guy. Stanley has very good mechanics, he looks like a classic pocket passer but also shows off some good mobility too. His arm is also legit. Not a Russell or Allen cannon but he has strength to hit 60 yards easy & at times has shown sweet deep placement & accuracy. He’s taken snaps & made plays from under center, on the run & in S/G. Looks very comfortable on the move & in play action. At times Stanley goes through his reads but you want to see more of that & an overall better pocket awareness this fall. There’s a lot to get excited about over this player. 6’5/215 first year starter w/ a 26/6 TD-INT ratio has me locked in closely to see how his 2nd year in college turns out. Also don’t ignore the obvious Pats/Iowa connections that won’t hurt come draft time.

 

36) K’neal Harry WR/Arizona St – Harry has the size, toughness and big play ability you want on the outside. He turns into a basketball player in 50/50 situations and a running back after the catch. He also has + blocking ability and willingness. Hopefully he gets to show off his route running skills in the new system Herm Edwards is bringing out West. Neal will never be a speed demon but an improvement in route running could take his game to the next level.

 

37) (PTP) Bryce Love RB/Stanford – Love looks like Dion Lewis 2.0. Both undersized but run even smaller, closer to the ground to maximize their balance & ability to explode through a hole. Love runs w/ a sweet blend of patience & quickness its impressive to watch. His shiftiness is easy to spot but it’s the subtle, small moments of patience that make him a + runner. Love is a playmaker and just keeps cranking out 20-30+ yard runs and could improve this year. He has to improve his pass pro & isn’t utilized in the rec game so hopefully he showcase some improvement in both this fall to really maximize his stock come draft day.

 

38) Tyree Jackson QB/Buffalo – Last year  (long before the national & local media talked about it)  I talked about the possibility of Lamar Jackson coming to New England. I brought up the fact that the next franchise QB, might be coached by Josh, not Bill.  And Jackson was young enough & talented enough to sit & learn for next head coach in New England. The Patriots showed what looked like genuine interest but ending up passing on Lamar, enter Tyree Jackson. I brought him up a while ago in a few articles on here & it’s apparent all eyes will be on the Buffalo QB this fall. Jackson might be the most intriguing QB prospect in the class. He’s 6’6/240 w/ an absolute rocket of an arm that can touch 60+ yards w/out much effort. Jackson  showed the ability to really push the ball down field but also has a natural “stick & shoot” accuracy about him on intermediate passes. Like all college players he needs work in some areas. He has to tighten up his release, just some tinkering not a huge issue. Jackson also has to improve his pocket awareness & mental processing on reads but has a ton of potential.

 

39)(PTP) Dalton Risner OL/Kansas St – Risner’s versatility will be talked up all year as it should. He has played all 5 positions but is probably best suited inside as a C/G. He has real finesse in pass pro but also the overall toughness needed in the run game and to play in the trenches. Risners health will be key as he was hurt throughout last year. Risner looks like a plug & play run blocker w/ quick choppy feet & the nastiness to get after defenders to the whistle. He has to get stronger to take on top-tier power players at the next level but has shown a ton of promise so far. Effort and “want to” aren’t a problem. 

 

40)Terry Beckner Jr IDL/- If not for injuries Beckner Jr would probably be on everyone’s top 10-15 list for this draft class. He possess an outstanding get off and smart, violent hands. By smart, I mean he holds them high (can’t use if there by your side), and he delivers accurate strikes to shed offensive linemen off him and attack the QB. Beckner Jr moves like a linebacker and hits like a 300+ pound defensive tackle. If he replicate that quickness off the ball its hard not to think some team will take a chance on earlier than expected.

 

41) Joe Jackson RUSH/Miami – Jackson would be taken first off the bus and has the play to match his physique. At 6’5/250 which is where is weight is supposedly at now, he looks to be even more dangerous. Expect him to keep packing on the muscle because the rest of his game is ready to run now. Lots of potential but he already has the agility, quickness and strength you want in an edge rusher.

 

42) (PTP) Noah Fant  TE/Iowa – Big, easy moving target that looks like a nightmare to cover screaming down the seem. Not only a big target but Fant has + athleticism & should be a top 50-60 next year, if not the 1st TE off the board. Fant is a glider that will get on top of a defense quick if he’s not physically impeded. Fant could also blow up the combine as well if reports about his numbers in the vertical and short shuttle are correct (40+ vert/3.95) Again don’t ignore the obvious here, connections from Iowa and the need for another top flight tight end very soon.

https://twitter.com/JBP_Official/status/1006687985570443264

 

43) Michael Deiter IOL/Wisconsin – Deiter brings real versatility at C/G and T in a jam. Hes a last resort there. He’s not the best athlete on the list but is physical in both pass pro and the run game. And plays with good body control. He has the quickness to fire off the ball and straight line speed to get to the 2nd level quickly. Again hes not going to do a ton of damage in space because of his poor change of direction. Hes more of a brawler and can handle the big defensive tackles charging up the middle.

 

44) (PTP) T.J. Edwards – I’ll be the first to admit when I was wrong and I was about Edwards coming into this piece. Don’t get it twisted I was a fan but just wasn’t given him his full due. I didn’t realize how good he was away from the line. He’s extremely aware and sneaky in terms of covering his space. Just a savvy player in coverage for someone who looks like a traditional, throwback type that will knock the snot out of you. Edwards does an excellent job at reading the QB’s eyes and looks very comfortable patrolling that shallow zone about 15-20 yards off the line. He’s a talker, great communicator and is seemingly always running to his spot before the ball is released from the QB’s hand. It’s obvious the player watches film and understands how to take that knowledge and translate it to the field. Like I said before Edwards resembles a player you’d see from previous decades but has the smarts and athleticism to play in today’s “spread ’em out” game. In the run game he’s a hitter that loves physical contact and plays with good contact balance. He shows good hand usage as well. And it shows when he’s sifting through the traffic, staying clean to make a play.

https://twitter.com/CoachDanCasey/status/961653707233472514

 

45) Stanley Morgan WR/Nebraska – Morgan and A Richards are very similar players. A little undersized but able to beat press, accelerate in/out of his breaks and work all levels. Both are very smooth players. And both run the NFL routes to move the chains and can stretch the field.

 

46)AJ Brown WR/Ole Miss – Brown is a big physical target in the slot that doesn’t mind contact and knows how to use his body as a shield. He’s a good route runner but definitely has to improve in terms of running crisp patterns and not round out on his short routes. Brown will continue to work on that but already has the speed, hands and physicality teams want and can work outside as well.

 

47)Marvell Tell III S/USC – Big rangy Safety that is just now really getting comfortable at the position. Tell has flashed on several occasions but is still learning the position in many ways. Tell is a former WR/S in high school. Played some strong safety as a FR & moved to FS as SO. 2018 could be a huge year for the multi talented Tell, who is all over the field at times for the Trojans. Teams will specifically looking how he does/improved he is in coverage. The biggest thing for Tell is a consistent 2018-19, not so much eye popping stats.

 

48)Bryan Edwards WR – Edwards could go a lot higher and has size and traits to be the first WR off the board. 6’3/215, He’s a big target  with strong hands and leaping ability. Thats his game right now, being the alpha in me vs you situation, so expect him to refine some of his patterns this while having his best year statistically.

 

49)Chauncey Gardner Johnson S/Florida – Gardner-Johnson is a former CB & plays the ball like one. He has very good speed & has natural ball skills. Knows what to do when he gets his paws on the ball. Gardner-Johnson will also deliver big, legal hits if the opportunity presents itself. Florida has been pumping the DB’s out

 

50)Rodney Anderson RB/Oklahoma – I think Anderson is in for a big year as he’ll be the focal point of the offense and has everything it takes to be an every down back. He’s thick, stout and has some power. However Anderson is lethal in space and has a little bounce and burst to his step. His sample size is short so obviously he’ll need to have to impressive this year. He also could take improve on reading/waiting and setting up his blocks at the line but again theres only a years worth of games to look at with him. Also he was cleared of these charges but he’ll definitely be answering questions about Rodney Anderson this next spring as well.

 

51) (PTP) Taylor Rapp – Rapp is an instinctual Safety with very good short area quickness & doesn’t shy away from bringing it in run support to make a play. He’s very efficient in doing so as well. He’s very smooth, seemingly always round the ball or where the action is. Right now he reminds me a little bit like Harrison Smith from the Vikings. Someone who can make an impact in all phases of the game on defense.

 

52) Deebo Samuel WR/South Carolina – Reminds me a little bit like Anthony Miller in the sense that he’s undersized but as tough as they come at that position. Doesn’t mind getting dirty & understands blocking is a big part of playing the position. Samuel is another guy that turns into a RB when he gets his hands on the ball. Goods hands, runs sharp routes. Contributes on special teams as a return man. He’s tough, athletic and versatile. Samuel might not get the hype he deserves but he can absolutely play on Sundays and will next year.

 

53)(PTP) Benny Snell Jr. RB/Kentucky – Benny Snell Jr is a big physical back that always runs very hard & w/ a purpose. Doing that in the SEC for 2400+/30+ is quite impressive considering he’s being game planned around each week as Kentucky’s best offensive player. Snell probably won’t get a ton of love until draft but he’s a reliable, tough runner w/ very good contact balance and production. Another thing that Snell has going for him is the fact that there aren’t many bigger backs in this class.

 

 

54) (PTP) Anthony Johnson WR/Buffalo – Johnson is quicker than fast but has deceptive speed to get behind corners & for the most part runs clean, crisp routes on all 3 levels. Johnson should be in for a big year if both him & Tyree Jackson can stay healthy for a full season. Thor Nystrom recently compared Johnson to Gallup and I couldn’t agree more. It almost felt like the comp was on the tip of my tongue. They both play a lot bigger than their size and have a subtle physicality to their game. Whether its releasing off the line, creating some room to seperate in route or 50/50 balls. Both have that “do it all” feel to their games.

 

55)Jake Bentley QB/South Carolina – Bentley has plenty of traits and tools to work with. Arm talent, poise and mibility. From watching him live and on tape he has nice, smooth mechanics with a quick release. He’s a “runner” but can scramble around before making a play and has good awareness in general.

 

56)Devin Singletary RB/FAU – A nightmare in the open field Singletary has + balance, feet and deceptive strength in the open field. He won’t go down with arm tackles and has the vision to take it for 6 from almost anywhere. There’s a good chance he has 65+ TDs after this year just from the last 3 years.

 

57)Ross Pierschbacher C/Alabama – Pierschbacher is another super versatile offensive linemen that could probably play all 5 positions if asked to. Very smart player who takes the time to study the nuances of each spot as well. He has the power withstand the big nose tackles and shows commitment to getting inside hands, his strength is almost overwhelming when he does.

 

58)Drew Lock QB/Missouri – Lock could easily lottery put I and many others have to see the decision making, accuracy and ability to process info quickly each play, each series and so on. He has legit arm talent. Strength, at times placement and the ability to change up the speed on his passes. He has plenty to work with in terms of talent around him and tools he owns. Big year for all the QB’s!

 

59)Clayton Thorson QB/Northwestern – Theres a lot to like about Thorson but the unanswered questions are whats on my mind. At times he looks very balanced, will go through his reads and get the ball out quickly. He looks the part working the short/inter stuff but the deep ball is lacking. Along with the poise/pocket presence you want. He has improve post snap, on the fly. Still, he has the size, smarts and enough tools to work with.

 

60)Kelvin Harmon WR/NC St – Harmon is just one of many WR’s that with a big year, could find himself with the WR1 label in 2019. Harmon just eats up yards and is deadly in the intermediate/deep parts of the field. He consistently snatches the ball out of the year and has a big catch radius. Tough to bring down as well. NC ST offense will be fun to watch.

 

61)Byron Murphy CB/Washington – Like Miles Sanders this is a lot of projection but then again thats what this is about. Murphy looks like he might be a natural in zone coverage. He has + instincts, short area quickness and closing speed. He does a great job at reading the QB’s eyes and making a play on the ball. He does a great at locating the ball as all. He could go a lot higher than he’s slotted here.

 

62)Sutton Smith Rush/NIU – Smith is extremely fun to watch. Undersized, usually given up 60-70+ pounds but you wouldn’t know it from watching him. He’s lightening off the ball and does a great job at making himself an even smaller target to touch. He brings the aggressiveness and fight you want from a “small school” player along with the stats. A position change is very likely but his game is good enough to play on Sundays.

 

63)Carl Granderson Rush/Wyoming – Another player still growing into his body and learning what kind of strength he has. Granderson has a very nice burst of the line and + lateral movement to cross his opponents face. He can pressure the arc or kick it back inside if his man is out of position. He shows + stop/start movements and the ability to explode down the line to make a play.

 

64) (PTP) Andrew Wingard S/Wyoming – Wingard plays the position with reckless abandon and is like a missile when targeting and hitting his opponents. He’s better the closer he is to the ball but can cover TE’s/RB’s on certain routes. + Instincts and effort, Wingard is a football player through and through. Every team needs a guy like team to keep everyone honest because he takes no plays off.

 

65)Jaylon Ferguson Rush/Louisiana Tech – Ferguson has the chance to put himself in rare air if he manages to have one of his best years Right now he has 40+ tackle for loss and 27.5 sacks. Seems like his team asked a lot of him, hes not just pinning his ears back. Fits our mold in terms of the type we go for. He’s another fighter, worker type. Makes it a point to keep the outside sealed off.

 

66) (PTP) Charles Omenihu Rush/Texas – Omenihu has NFL size and strength and displayed several moves to attack the QB with as well. He knows how to use his length and has active hands on most plays.

 

67) (PTP) Chase Winovich Rush/Michigan  – A former Tight End turned do it all player for Don Brown at Michigan. Winovich lines up almost everywhere along the line & brings the heat from inside & outside. Winovich quietly had very nice year in 2017 & was one of the Wolverines best defenders that no one talks about. A repeat or better year from Winovich will have him top 75 contention.

 

68)Parris Campbell WR/OSU – Versatile weapon you can move around on offense. He probably won’t have great numbers at the end of the year but has several traits you want in your playmakers. Great combo of speed, size and quickness. He has good hands, contact balance and can find a soft spot in coverage to make a play. Campbell also has return skills.

 

69) (PTP) Ryan Finley QB/N.C. State – Finley is another player that would have been drafted this year but came back for a shot at the 1st round in 2019. At times Finley looks like a future pro. He has the size, arm, accuracy & football IQ teams desire. He sells play action very well & can work all 3 levels of the field. Finley has a minor scratch on his record w/ an arrest (underage drinking, resisting arrest, dumb stuff a lot of young people do) while at Boise State but has shown nothing but majority since then. Finley plays in a pro style offense that will surely appeal to teams, much like Phillip Rivers, Jacoby Brissett, Russell Wilson & Mike Glennon.

 

70)Shea Patterson QB/Michigan – Patterson was a Ole Miss transfer that should really benefit from a year w/ Coach Harbaugh. Patterson is so fun to watch. His game & path in football both resemble Russell Wilson. Patterson has to do a better job staying sturdy w/ his base when moving around & scrambling. If his feet aren’t set it doesn’t end up well, which is the case for most QB’s & athletes. Patterson as the ability to work all 3 levels while on the move but needs a little refining. The traits & tools are there though. Arm talent, accuracy/placement, scrambling ability & make “it” happen when the odds are against you.

 

71)David Sills WR/West Virginia – Sills is a former QB turner WR who was offered a scholarship by Lane Kiffen years ago. He does a very good at presenting a big target, locating the ball and was a TD monster with 18. Sills is a big bodied receiver looking to build on his breakout season from last year.

 

72)Khalil Hodge LB/Buffalo – Hodge has a nose for the ball and does a great job at sifting through the muck to find it. Hes been constantly working on his agility and change of direction and he recent play suggest he has improved in those areas.

 

73) (PTP) Khaleke Hudson DB/LB – Hudson is a hybrid that bounces between LB/S. Intense, smart player who excels at stopping the run and is very efficient when pressuring the QB.

 

74)Jerry Tillery IDL/Notre Dame – Tillery is a beast of a player at 6’6/300 & is coming off his best season to date. Tillery had some maturity issues he moved past from & is switching from NT to 3tech this fall. 3Tech should play to his strengths as Tillery is the most athletic OL’m on the team & will probably play that position at the next level. The DT will look to add to his TFL total from last year & show he’s not a one hit wonder.

 

75)DK Metcalf WR/Ole Miss – Metcalf is a big body WR that knows how to use his size & strength at 6’3/220. After the catch Metcalf looks like a big RB. Metcalf’s game is starts & ends w/ his physicality. From the line to the caught point Metcalf is a big, strong WR that will look to out muscle & use his body control to secure a catch. After that his powerful strides do the rest. If Metcalf can stays healthy this year he might play himself into the 1st round.

 

 

76)Michael Jackson CB/Miami – Jackson checks the height/weight boxes you want at 6’1/195. One thing that you notice right away is that he turns and locates the ball quite well at times. Miami also uses him to blitz and it seems he doesn’t mind getting dirty and delivering a hit either. He also just became a father for the first time a few months ago.

 

 

77)Juwan Johnson WR/PSU – Johnson has prototype size, a big catch radius and the ability to work all areas of the field. He can run a crisp, clean slant and make you miss in space. Work the sidelines on out routes and stretch the field on deep routes. He’ll catch through contact and sticks out on a team that runs first on offense.

 

78)Nick Fitzgerald QB/Miss St – Tough QB who makes plays with his legs and is not afraid to take a hit for a first down. He has to work on his accuracy and decision making though. Despite that he shows some good stuff with his arm talent and athleticism. He suffered a gruesome injury last year so all eyes will be on the Miss St QB this fall.

 

79)Justice Hill RB/Ok St. – Hill added some weight last year but didn’t lose his bounce or shake as you can see below. He ran with more aggression and grit in 2017 for sure. Hill also has that lateral bounce step to threaten the outside at all times. He’ll have to improve in pass pro but looks like an NFL back.

https://twitter.com/pistolsguys/status/903406673968160769?s=19

 

80)Khalil Tate QB/Arizona – Big time athlete that is as good as anyone in the open field. Real speed to take it for 6 from anywhere and lateral movement to make people miss with ease. Tate isn’t a pocket passer just yet but has improved year to year.

 

81)Paddy Fisher LB/Northwestern  – The Texas native had a breakout year last season after a 19 tackle effort against Duke in his 2nd game of the year. At 6’3/245 he has the size to plug the holes in the middle & displays the toughness needed in that role. Fisher isn’t a speed demon but rather relies on his instincts & toughness to make a play. Fisher’s eyes are always keying in on where the Center is heading & usually arrives on time to make a play.

 

82)Camryn Bynum CB/Cal – Bynum is someone who flips a switch when he walks on the field. A quiet guy in general but has some dog in him. Hes known for his work ethic, competitiveness but has decent size and length as well.

 

83)Collin Johnson WR/Texas – Johnson is a huge target that can get off press and make circus catches on the regular (below). + Body control and catch radius as well. He has to continue to work on separation from his man but theres ton of promise there.

 

84)Isaac Nauta TE/Georgia –  There’s not many players I’m more pumped to watch then Nauta this fall. Nauta is 5 star TE recruit which is pretty rare & has a successful track record but looks like a player just waiting to explode this year.

https://twitter.com/pacificscouting/status/995032349929652224.

He has natural hands that always look to pluck the ball out of the air & the aggression you want to see while run blocking. He’s a very intriguing & tough to bring down at 6’4+/250.

 

85)Michael Jordan G/OSU – Jordan looks like a tackle and was headed to OSU to play tackle but was quickly moved to guard about 5 snaps in. Jordan brings tremendous size and athleticism to the guard position.

 

86)Mack Wilson LB/Alabama – Even when he wasn’t starting Saban git him in the field whuxh should tell you something about his feelings on the player. Mack has great straight line speed and strength. He’s added about 25lbs since arriving there and will have the spotlight shining on him this fall.

 

87)Damarea Crockett RB/Missouri – It took a minute to get going for Crockett (marijuana suspension, pass pro issues, fumbles) but once he did it was clear hes the best weapon Missouri has. The best thing about his game was he didn’t shy away from premier defenses. He also set a fee freshman rushing records too.

 

88)Myles Dorn S/UNC – Born has prototype size, range and is another guy that makes an impact everywhere. He can cut off angles in the run game or come in for a bit hit. Break up a play 20 yards away or knock down a pass in tight coverage. This year he’s adamant about taken on a leadership role on the field and in the locker room.

 

89)Alaric Jackson OT/Iowa – Jackson is a massive human with the athleticism of a basketball player, his first love. Jackson didn’t start playing until a few years ago but has real potential at the next level.

 

90)Mike Edwards S/Kentucky – Edwards has been very productive over the last two years the closer he is to the ball, sometimes playing the nickel role. Edwards and Allen will each look to put a stamp on their careers this fall.

 

91) (PTP) Derrick Brown IDL/Auburn – Brown moves very well for someone 315+ and  is a handful in the run game. And he move down the line, stack and shed to make a play near the line. He knows how to use his length whether its reaching out to cause a fumble, knock down a pass/kick or create length to stay clean.

 

92)Albert Okwuegbunam TE/Missouri TE – Huge red zone target, Okwuegbunam has the serious 3 down potential with some work on his blocking and route running. He does show effort in delivering a wham block for instance but has to get better at hand to hand combat when blocking inline. Right now Missouri uses his out of the backfield and in the slot so he’s very comfortable on the move and being switched around.

 

93)Easton Stick QB/North Dakota St – Stick took over for Wentz & lead the Bison  to a title last year. Stick has been up & down & streaky at times but shows + accuracy & placement at times. He also can push the ball down the field like Wentz at times as well. Again its about consistency w/ Stick. At times he’s very much in command of his offense though. Looks the part there.

 

94) (PTP) Porter Gustin LB/USC – Gustin is a smart player w/ a non stop motor. He has the speed to rush the passer & toughness to play in trenches on occasion. Gustin has + athleticism & the ability to stop/start quickly to mirror & chase opponents.  He’ll be an effective chase & pursuit player along the backside of the line. He looks like he could play some DE or OLB for a multiple team like the Pats.

 

95) (PTP) Anthony Nelson Rush/Iowa – Nelson reminds me a little like a developing Zach Allen. He’s a big, thick pass rusher that packed on more than 40 lbs since coming to Iowa. Again he’s a bit of a project but at 6’6/270 but he already does a good job at using his strength and length. He’s a workmen-like linemen that makes each snap a fistfight in itself. The Iowa native is mix power, length & burst at 6’6/270. Nelson also does a good job of controlling his man & setting the edge to prevent anything from bouncing outside. Like Allen he’s still filling out and getting used to grown man strength. He filled the stat sheet last year and if he improves his numbers he’ll probably go higher than this. Last year he amassed 41 tackles, including 21 solo tackles and 20 assists,  7.5 sacks,  9.5 tackles for loss, four pass break-ups, two forced fumbles and a blocked field goal. He also has family ties to Iowa, his father played football there as well.

 

96)Dre’mont Jones IDL – 6’3/290 Jones brings a good first step and snap awareness. Strong enough to hold his ground in the ground but take advantage of 1 on 1’s at the 3/5 Technique. Like so other players you want to see have a consistent year and I’ll be watching you see if his contact balanced improved at all too.

 

97)  (PTP) Tyler Johnson WR/Minnesota – Johnson is a former multi sport star in high school, including playing QB & helping his basketball team to a championship his SR year. A high character person & smart football player, Johnson is capable of working all 3 areas of the field. He was on pace to SO WR records last year before getting hurt for the last 2 games. He might not be a 1st round player or big name prospect but looks like he can help a team on the field & in the locker room.

 

98)Miles Sanders RB/PSU – Sanders will be taking over for Barkley at PSU this year. He’s a big time recruit that many thought would have ended up at a “Big Name” School like OSU or LSU but he choose Penn St & will get his shot very soon. He’s a do it all back w/ rec skills, agility, speed & vision. I know PSU coaches & players are excited about him & can’t wait to see what he brings day 1.

 

99)JoJo Mcintosh S/Washington – McIntosh is the other half of the Safety tandem at UW. The enforcer in the secondary, he takes pride in setting the tone & letting the other team know what kind of day its going be. McIntosh has also shown good instincts & processing speed at times in coverage as well even though his strengths lay closer to the ball.

 

100) Alec Eberle C/FSU – Eberle is fleet of foot center that gets to the 2nd level in a hurry & is eager to hit someone when he gets there. The problem I see coming his weight & ability to execute & maintain blocks, 1 on 1, at the next level. At times Eberle can also get too ahead of himself & work himself out of a play or doesn’t take the proper angle to the defender. With some added weight, the ability to maintain it & Eberle could be a good pro player.

 

 

I’m sure this list will change a ton between now and April. In fact it absolutely will. This is just a snack and to get familiar with some of the prospects you’ll be seeing this fall and on Sundays in the near future. Please share and comment. Praise or criticism welcome. Happy Father’s Day to everyone as well!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Early, Top 100 NCAAF Players Going Into The 2018-19 Season first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/early-top-100-ncaaf-players-going-into-the-2018-19-season.html/feed 6 36630 Why we should be excited about Derek Rivers & 4 Teams That Could Surpass Expectations In 2018 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/why-we-should-be-excited-about-derek-rivers-4-teams-that-could-surpass-expectations-in-2018.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/why-we-should-be-excited-about-derek-rivers-4-teams-that-could-surpass-expectations-in-2018.html#comments Tue, 12 Jun 2018 02:21:09 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36604 NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler I first heard Derek Rivers name about a month after the 2016 draft. Actually his name was mentioned along with his teammate Avery Moss. Draft season doesn’t end for draftniks and it being it my favorite position to evaluate besides QB, I jumped on the opportunity. I was very impressed […]

The post Why we should be excited about Derek Rivers & 4 Teams That Could Surpass Expectations In 2018 first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

I first heard Derek Rivers name about a month after the 2016 draft. Actually his name was mentioned along with his teammate Avery Moss. Draft season doesn’t end for draftniks and it being it my favorite position to evaluate besides QB, I jumped on the opportunity. I was very impressed with both tbh. Both had active hands but each brought something different and they really complemented each other. Moss is a violent/heavy handed, power DE. He loved throwing clubs and moving offensive linemen back with his bull rush. He is also a very good run defender. Moss is now playing with the Giants and someone to keep an eye for the future too. It was his teammate that stole my heart though. Sometimes you see a person and you just know. They way they move. How good and natural they are with their hands. The butterflies in my stomach were enough, but his burst off the line made it official … I was in love. Crazy, “friend in your head”, Bae & J-type love, with a pass rusher. He really had it all though in my defense. Speed and size. Nuance to his pass rush. The ability to keep his outside shoulder clean and re-set in the run game, an under-rated part of his game. Rivers displayed so many physical qualities and traits on film but also presented a very high football I.Q. His burst, bend and hand work are special but Rivers also understands what’s in what of him.

How can defeat something you don’t understand?

It’s incredibly undervalued but shows up on film and is an attribute you want in all your players. Rivers understands what types blocks and sets his opponents might use from hours of film study he does on top of the work he does with the team. He’s just a very aware player on the field. Here are some plays and highlights to remind us what type of player we’re getting.

Rivers had a great combine. This play demonstrates how those drills translate to the field. His 10 yard split/40 time = his great burst of the line. Hand work is key to disengage from his opponent and his 3-cone (same as Justin Houston) = his ability to turn the corner. All are on display here.

 

Here is his burst and bend again. He’s the only Patriot that could do this to be honest. This play is key and the type of rush we want to see more from Rivers. He came into the league around 250 and probably will always weight south of 260. To really take advantage of his skills it’s ideal that he rushes “1/2 man”. In other words he decides to take on “half” of his opponent rather than a straight away bull rush and make it a fight with someone who out weighs you by 65-85lbs. You’ll see him attack that way after setting up his man with moves that test the edge and try to catch him off balanced.

 

Rivers showed he could play with high hands and not let it affect his pad level.

 

 

He also very effective in the run/rpo game and isn’t fooled easily

 

We saw him flow across the line against Jacksonville last year. And showed decent recognition as well, when Yeldon tried sneaking by him.

 

 

 

Here Rivers goes with power at first with a rip move in mind but has the awareness to recognize his man is out of position (OL should have their butts facing the QB, not the sideline) and goes back inside to counter.

 

Strikes high, long arm to bullrush, keeps legs churning and helps cause an incompletion.

 

Same type of plan of attack here. I put it in slow-mo to highlight the leverage he gets and strength he has. Explodes off the line, 3 steps and he’s already underneath his man’s pads and lifts Cam Robinson off the ground and back about 3 feet. Might have been a flag at the end but Robinson reset himself well and was pretty good for the Jags all year.

 

 

Look, I know these are college and NFL preseason cut ups. We have to see it on the field against real competition. This is just a reminder that we’re not in dire straits up front and have players that can/will make an impact. A healthy Derek Rivers gives the Patriots a weapon on defense unlike any other on the roster at the moment. Someone that can rent a little space in a DC’s head while their game planning for New England and deliver on the field. A healthy 95 is instant pass rush on 3rd downs/obvious passing downs, brings an array of moves to assault defensive linemen en route to the QB and gives us some added versatility along the line. Again players with his traits and gifts don’t come along to often. Look, I clearly feel a certain type of way towards Derek Rivers and I’ve come to terms with the feelings. That doesn’t mean I’m over hyping here. BAErk Rivers checks all the boxes you want. He dominated his competition and holds the sack record at Youngstown State with 41, top 5 in FCS history. Is top five at YSU in tackles for loss, but had most since the 80’s. He also had one of the best combines in the last 20 years and is top tier, near elite in almost every category. It’s always nice when you have Tape + Stats + Measurables, that usually = success. Rivers work ethic and football I.Q. only further make the case for someone to get excited about. He lives in the film room and spent a ton of time studying, learning at Gillette Stadium while rehabbing.

 

 

Some I took a look at a few rosters, win totals and projected a bit schedule-wise. These teams jumped out for having the capability to exceed current win total expectations.

1)Chicago Bears – The Bears offense was embarrassing at times last year. A step up to the 20th century would actually be an improvement. Fortunately for the windy city, Matt Nagy is far & away ahead of John Fox when it comes to the offensive side of the ball. So the offense should land in 2018. Even with a legit run, run, pass approach and a lack of weapons Mitch Trubisky looked very promising last year. The Bears not only upgraded his weapons in landing Allen Robinson through free agency and Anthony Miller via the draft but Nagy should also get the most out of their players from previous regimes too. Like Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen. I think Miller will be Trubisky’s bestie real quick though. He was my #3 WR this year and has a pro ready game. He can run really neat, crisp routes and isn’t afraid to go over the middle with good hands. He’s also a very tough blocker, that should help keep him on the field. The Bears also added to their already promising defense and have a low-key, pretty sweet interior OL with the addition of James Daniels. This team doesn’t have the toughest of schedules either. If you’re a Bears fan you have like how things are shaping up. This year and in the future.

 

2)San Francisco 49ers – They might not be a sleeper team but I’m bullish on SF. Tbh I have been even before they traded for the sexiest man alive. Right now I think their a top 4-6 team in the league. The Rams are right there but I think San Fran belongs right there with them. I actually love the moves they made on defense the past few years and see something brewing on that side of the ball. Buckner, Thomas, Foster, Witherspoon and Tartt are all guys I loved coming out.  Thats a great corp to build around. If Foster has his head on straight they could be special. I think Sherman is a great addition as well. He really fits what they want from the position and will be a great mentor for their secondary. Especially Witherspoon, who is a resembles the vet in s many ways on and off the field. Their offense is ready to run as well. The league probably saw about 10-15% of Shanahan’s offense. So I’m not worried about the league “catching up” or “figuring out” that side of the ball. That’s actually silly talk considering they added Jerick McKinnon. He’s perfect for Shanahan’s outside-zone system with his stop on a dime, one cut ability and versatility. Jimmy Sweetheart also has a bundle of versatile targets to throw to in Pierre Garcon, George Kittle, Marquise Goodwin, Dante Pettis, Richie James and Trent Taylor. This team is talented, explosive and balanced. I believe in the Rams but don’t think there’s a gap between the two teams. The 49ers could be pretty special in peak form. I think they are a SB contender.

 

3)Cleveland Browns – The Browns are another team I’m a lot higher on than most. Fwiw I’m not a believer in Hue Jackson or Greg Williams (Williams had Peppers playing 30 yards off the ball last year lol). Neither have impressed as of late and I have a feeling both will be gone soon. After that glowing endorsement, the Browns have a ton of talent all over the place. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if their competing for that division in the next 2 years along with the Ravens. Both the Steelers and Bengals look to be trending down or treading water. And for the first time … ever? The Land has a good QB problem. They drafted Baker Mayfield #1 overall and have Tyrod Taylor as a bridge if they want to go that way. I’ve been a enormous Baker fan for years and think he’s legit, so I expect him to be taken snaps by week 1 tbh. He brings a no backdown attitude, kick in the door-type mentality to the field on every play. They offense could absolutely work with Taylor as well I believe but just think it’s peak is with Mayfield at QB. And when that happens he’ll be taking over a squad, the rest of the team is pretty much all set. The Brownies have an + interior offensive line and look good there even though their HOF LT, Joe Thomas retired. Their skill positions have the potential to be some of the best weapons in the league. Cleveland has a backfield of Carlos Hyde, Nick Chubb and Duke Johnson. Pretty good if you ask me. Hyde and Chubb are bruising slashers that will gash and wear down defenses. While Johnson is a chess piece that can do major damage in the passing game. He’s a very under-rated played and a weapon in the passing game.  Josh Gordon is the best WR in the game when hes on the field and Landry is a bulldog in the slot. They might be the best two receivers at working crossers and the MOF (middle of the field) Those two alone will create serious matchup problems but also factor in David Nkoju and Corey Coleman. Their defense has this irish guy excited as well. Myles Garrett will be competing for the DPOY for the next decade and their LB corp looks to be quite good after the Kendricks signing and Genard Avery draft pick. I wouldn’t be shocked if we saw Jamie Collins attacking the QB a lot more as well. I think the Browns are finally on the right path and wouldn’t be shocked to see them make some noise this year.

 

4)Tampa Bay – The Bucs have assembled one of the most talented rosters in football over the last 3-4 years. Through free agency and the draft. Their two deep almost everywhere and you have to start with the big boys on the front 7. Vea and McCoy might not be Suh and Donald but they will be a great duo. McCoy has always been great at knifing and sliding through gaps, Vea only helps that by demanding a double but has some pass rush to his big ole’ self as well. Their games really complement each other and are fun players to watch. I know Vea was a favorite at PatFans (every Pats fan should check that site out btw) Tampa upgraded on the edge as well bringing in JPP and Vinnie Curry. All these guys are extra grande and quick to unbutton the pants after a quick meal. So both the run and pass game should improve. And whatever sneaks by them doesn’t have much luck coming at them because Tampa is three deep at linebacker. Beckwith, Alexander and David are among the best in the league. Its the secondary I’m looking at. And the team was too. They drafted  M.J. Stewart and Carlton Davis this year to bolster the unit. Stewart is an aggressive, tough, smart corner that will come up big in run support. Davis is big, physical defensive back that should make his bones in man while on a learning curve in zone. The offensive side of the ball looks like a fantasy football lineup. Desean Jackson, Mike Evans, Cameron Brate and  O.J. Howard are about as good as it gets. And they didn’t hesitate to fill Doug Martin’s spot with Ronald Jones from USC. This is the NFL though, it’s all about the QB. Unfortunately for Tampa that position has been too shaky at times. To be fair Winston definitely isn’t alone in deserving blame. Many players and coaches could be named but the bottom line is Winston has to step up his play pronto. If that happens its hard not to see them at least fighting for a playoff spot.

 

 

The post Why we should be excited about Derek Rivers & 4 Teams That Could Surpass Expectations In 2018 first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/06/why-we-should-be-excited-about-derek-rivers-4-teams-that-could-surpass-expectations-in-2018.html/feed 10 36604 The Patriots 5 Biggest Threats To Another Superbowl Appearence. http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/the-patriots-5-biggest-threats-to-another-superbowl-appearence.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/the-patriots-5-biggest-threats-to-another-superbowl-appearence.html#comments Wed, 30 May 2018 16:59:53 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36593 NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler   The Patriots are the clear favorite atop of the AFC mountain but if Belichick preaches anything, it’s what happened last week/year, doesn’t matter. Here is an early look at the 5 biggest roadblocks in the way of New England’s quest to another Superbowl. 5 Biggest Threats Pittsburgh Steelers – The […]

The post The Patriots 5 Biggest Threats To Another Superbowl Appearence. first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

 

The Patriots are the clear favorite atop of the AFC mountain but if Belichick preaches anything, it’s what happened last week/year, doesn’t matter. Here is an early look at the 5 biggest roadblocks in the way of New England’s quest to another Superbowl.

5 Biggest Threats

  • Pittsburgh Steelers – The Patriots have owned the Steelers during the Brady & Belichick era. And there’s been one constant throughout that stretch. Tom Brady eating up the Steelers defense like alkaline fruits for a snack. Before last year the Steelers haven’t INT’d Brady since 2005 & just haven’t found a way to stifle Brady no matter who’s calling the shots defensively. Pittsburgh is once again trying to fix their defense or at least part of it. This time with Tom Bradley. He’s hoping to alleviate some of the pain fans get in their eyes from watching the secondary forget to cover Gronk, give Edelman 15 yards of cushion off the line & leave acres of yards uncovered in their zone scheme. The Corners are set in Haden, Burns & Mike Hilton in the slot. It’s the safetys that are being looked at & possibly tinkered with. Morgan Burnett was brought in, seemingly to replace Mike Mitchell at FS but Bradley isn’t writing anything in stone just yet in terms of set positions, which might be a good thing. You need interchangeable players back there regardless of scheme & it looks like the Steelers are committed to that approach with the pick of Terrell Edmonds. You can expect him in Nickel/Big Nickel packages this fall. From the outside looking in, it looks like the Steelers might be due for slight regression. Is this the year Big Ben’s road nightmares catch up to the team? It’s night & day, especially in the red zone where they throw far less & shockingly have trouble scoring TD’s. Things weren’t always roses with Haley & Ben but at peak, that offense was legit. How will the departure of Haley effect the offense? The defense hasn’t inspired fear or carried it’s fair in some time & the ball might roll the other way in terms of winning so many close games like they did last year. Still, you have a respect a team with their talent on offense, across the defensive line & last years game was a dog fight. Regardless if we see them in Jan, that reg season matchup will have a big impact on the playoff picture.         (Key Player: T.J. Watt looked like a young Bosa brother out there with his well placed strikes, strength & motor. The Wisconsin product also did a great job of covering space & dropping in coverage. His numbers would have looked a lot better if he just rushed the QB. Pittsburgh has been desperately trying to find that outside rusher to complement that great DL & it looks like they found it. If Watt continues his rise it could be just what the defense needed while figuring out their secondary.

 

 

  • Tennessee Titans – I can’t say how impressed I am with the Titans. Jon Robinson & co are building something special down there. If I was to point to a team (besides New England) on what approach to take or how you build a team it would Tennessee. Tampa Bay, being the Bucs, helped them out by selecting Winston over Mariota but the Titans have been hitting home runs all over the place across that roster. From drafting Conklin & Lewan & building inside/out. To the acquisitions of Ryan, Butler & Lewis. Tennessee got their QB, protected him by building a line. Gave him an array of weapons to work with & focused on the defense this past draft by selecting Eagles alum Harold Landry to rush the passer & Bama product Rashaan Evans to man the middle of that defense. The biggest move was at Head Coach though. With all due respect to Mike Mularkey & the “Exotic Smashmouth” this was the right move to make. Tennessee was predictable & at times one dimensional on offense. Not quite Gary Kubiak level where you’re literally calling out plays before the ball is napped but it was bad. Vrabel is a no nonsense coach that can also relate to players on a personal level. You saw it from his first moments on the sidelines & in the locker room. Players respect him but can also relate considering Mike isn’t that far removed from his playing days. Who knows if this is the year it all comes together but I expect this team to be in the SB/AFCCG in the next 2-3 years. Theres a perfect storm of talent, hunger & youth in Tennessee. There just aren’t many teams out there that are as talented & balanced on both sides of the ball.                                                                                                                                                                      (Key Player: Corey Davis took a while to make a real impact in an actual game last year but he arrived vs New England & showed exactly what he’s capable of. Davis is a great route runner with super quicks & excellent footwork. Tennessee needs him to be a true #1 WR to help take some pressure off Mariota)

 

  • Jacksonville Jaguars – The Jag’s have been at the bottom of the league for years but are firmly entrenched among the top teams in the AFC going forward. Last year the team was playing with house money but this season they have a big bullseye on their back from day 1.  The defense might be the best in the league again. Their just dripping with talent. From the rotation up front to the all star secondary & speed demon backers patrolling the middle of the field. Jacksonville is one of the few teams in the league with the personnel to matchup against anyone. Whether their in base or sub packages they have the ability to stop the run/pass from both which is rare in todays game. The story hasn’t changed that much in Duval though. Blake Bortles is still the biggest obstacle to the team’s immediate success. Bortles isn’t as bad as some make him out to be but he is who he is. Which is a QB that struggles to complete 60% & throws double digit INT’s every year. It’ll be interesting to see how defenses play him considering he lives off play action & the big play. The Jaguars formula (great D, t.o.p. offense w/ big plays mixed in) is one that has worked at times but in reality it’s incredibly difficult to win it all that way. Still in one game elimination matchup they deserve everyone’s full attention & respect.                                                   (Key Player: D.J. Chark is exactly what the Jaguars offense thrives off. A big, deep threat with legit 4.3 speed to take advantage of on play action. There are common denominators in Jaguar wins & this is a big one. Limit the big play & force Bortles to look around for other options)

 

  • Houston Texans – When you talk about talented teams you can’t leave out the Texans. Bill O’Brien deserves a ton of credit for how he’s managed Deshaun Watson (My QB3 from that class), the offense & team in general. Especially when you consider he was almost handcuffed because of the last GM there. O’Brien did a great job at making things easy for Watson from day 1. He didn’t change & throw his system out the window because of a new QB. Or try to fit a square peg in a round hole. He took what Watson did best at Clemson, adapted it to his system & played to his QB’s strengths. Sounds obvious but the league is littered with examples of coaches doing the exact opposite, probably because they don’t know any different & were taught that way. If you’ve watched the Patriots over the last decade or so you’ll notice they run a ton of the same plays but “dress them up” different pre snap to confuse the defense. This is exactly what O’B did in Houston & you can expect more of the same going forward. It places a lot of trust & communication between the QB/WR. They truly have to be on the same page because of the options available in the passing game. The scary part of the team is the potential on the other side of the ball if everyone stays healthy. Jadeveon Clowney played like DPOY in 2018 & was all over the field. If Watt & Mercilus can stay healthy, Houstons DL could be the best in the league to really balance out the team.                                                 (Key Player: D’Onta Foreman is a beast of a back at 6’/230 & runs a 4.45. Foreman didn’t need many touches to show he belongs in the league (87/411 yards) but suffered a torn Achilles in week 11 last year. I suspect Houston will wait until he’s completely healthy before bringing him back, which is the smart play. That offense has plenty of firepower to sustain the injury)

 

  • L.A. Chargers – Like the Texans, San Diego has dealt with its fair share of issues & injuries the past few years. As a football fan I can’t wait to see what they look like *if* healthy. As a Pats fan I wouldn’t want to see them, *healthy* in Jan. They have quietly put together a very potent defense. Again, if they can stay on the field that unit should be deadly. Up front you have Bosa, the powerful, technician with violent hands & motor. Paired with Ingram, who has a great jump off the line & ability to get under anyone’s pads. Those two alone can ruin your day but the group as a whole is much more than those two. The biggest piece for them is a healthy, functional Jason Verrett. He’s one of the best in the league but just can’t get on the field. If he does come back the Chargers would have a lockdown duo in Hayward & Verrett. Add in Derwin James, Uchenna Nwosu roaming the m.o.f./shallow zone & you have you enforcers in the 2nd level. The Chargers might not inspire a ton of fear because of our past run-in’s with them but that doesn’t matter going forward. 2018 is a new year, the division is winnable & the team is very potent all over. Forrest Lamp is another guy that should also give them a huge boost up front on the OL if he’s on schedule for this fall.                                                                                                                                                   (Key Player: Forrest Lamp & Jason Verrett could easily take this team to the next level if healthy. Verrett is a versatile water-bug that competes for everything & Lamp was one of the smartest, versatile OL’m to enter the draft in 5-10 years)

 

  • K.C. Chiefs – Again this might be a lil’ surprise for some but I’m all in on Mahomes (My QB1 from that class) He will surely have growing pains but this player has some special traits about him. The biggest being his arm talent, Mahomes has a Rodgers-like arm & as much confidence to go with it. K.C. had to go with Smith last year because continuity & the team being so close but they made the right move in picking Mahomes & trading Smith a few months ago. I’m actually a big Alex Smith fan but he had serious trouble beating man & pushing the ball down the field at times over his career. Mahomes will have no such problems after he gets a few games under his belt. His whip is special. From the strength & placement to changing up the tempo on his passes, Mahomes really was blessed in that area. He can flick it 60+ on the move & reportedly impressed coaches with his ability to pick up the playbook after getting drafted. That offense is all rev’d up & ready to go. Think about defending Sammy Watkins as a 3rd or 4th option on offense? That’s actually what many DC’s will be facing this fall. You have Hunt, a balanced bowling ball, who can make an impact in the air or ground but also have to stop Kelce, Hill & Conley out wide. For the first time in a while, the spotlight is on the defense to see if they can keep up their play over the last few years without pieces like Hali, Peters & other departures.                                                                                                                           (Key Player: Dee Ford will be looking to take over Hali’s spot on defense but that won’t be an easy task. Hali was a great run defender with an arsenal of moves to get to the QB. The players couldn’t be more different. Ford is all about that burst off the line & dipping around/under his opponents, a finesse guy. Hali was a powerful run stopper with violent hands & a motor that didn’t quit. Big shoes to fill for Ford)

 

Next up, 5 “Sleeper” teams that could surprise some people this year & a look at some new faces in the AFCE.

The post The Patriots 5 Biggest Threats To Another Superbowl Appearence. first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/the-patriots-5-biggest-threats-to-another-superbowl-appearence.html/feed 21 36593 Patriot Roster Prediction Part I http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/patriot-roster-prediction-part-i.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/patriot-roster-prediction-part-i.html#comments Wed, 23 May 2018 20:31:08 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36510 NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler   It’s May, the Patriots roster isn’t close to being set but a lot of the pieces are here. Assuming we don’t have any major injuries (Knock on wood, this is New England)  we have a good idea of what it’ll look like. This is my first attempt at constructing […]

The post Patriot Roster Prediction Part I first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

 

It’s May, the Patriots roster isn’t close to being set but a lot of the pieces are here. Assuming we don’t have any major injuries (Knock on wood, this is New England)  we have a good idea of what it’ll look like. This is my first attempt at constructing a 53 man roster so I expect it’ll be identical to the real one.

Offense – 25

QB – Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer (2)

No surprise here. There was some benefit to the Etling pick, I guess, but him being on the team isn’t one of them. He’s a good camp body/arm to have I suppose, but I have a very hard time seeing him on the 53. We’re stuck with Brady, who clearly doesn’t love the game anymore.

RB – Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead, James White, Brandon Bolden, James Develin (FB) (5)

I wrote about RB’s a few weeks ago & mentioned how they were taking over & as usual Belichick is ahead of the curve. Defense are adjusting to a league going full vertical via Air Raid/Spread by countering with Nickel/Dime defense’s. Bill understands you can pass just as much, be just as diverse & productive out of 2 back sets. Per Sharp’s data The Patriots used 21 personnel (2RB, 2WR, 1TE)  2nd most in the league & on offense last year. And had a 60% success rate, the best out of all our groupings. Also Lewis, Burkhead & White were all top 7 targets last year & I expect that number to rise this year. Expect to see some pairing of Michel, Burkhead & White on the field almost at all times.

WR – Julian Edelman, Jordan Matthews, Chris Hogan, Matt Slater, Braxton Berrios , Phillip Dorsett, Cordarrelle Patterson (7)

Mitchell should start the pup list but is in real danger of losing a spot if Dorsett or Britt has a summer to remember imo. Their the wildcards here that will really make this battle fierce. Edelman, Hogan & Slater (special teams) are locks. Patterson isn’t a lock but I don’t see him not making the team. Bill traded for him very recently & wants to upgrade the return game. Patterson has fallen short of expectations as a wr when drafted, hey it’s not his fault NFL GM’s don’t know what their doing part of the time. He’s an elite return man & since entering the league he’s almost 1,800 yards ahead of the #2 man & leading other categories as well. Berrios will handle punts & is also the perfect player to fill in for Edelman if need be or if we want to lighten his workload a bit.

Tight End – Rob Gronkowski, Dwayne Allen (2)

Not much to say here. Gronk is the goat & hopefully will retire a Patriot. I really looking forward to him doing local Boston T.V. commercials for decades. In all seriousness he’s what the league & Patriots should be celebrating.

Tackle – Marcus Cannon, Isaiah Wynn, Trent Brown, LaAdrian Waddle (4)

Very happy to hear Scar & co are looking at Wynn for the Tackle spot. Isaiah was the top 6 overall player on my board so I’m still on cloud-9 seeing him in a Patriots uniform. He has everything it takes to a great player in this league at T or G. No surprises except Waddle for some. With the Garcia cut I think the hope is we’ll have Cannon & Brown on the right. And Wynn, Waddle on the left.

Guard – Shaq Mason, Joe Thuney,  Ted Karras, Cole Croston (4)

Shaq is a top 6-7 G in the league & Thuney has been + player since we drafted him. For the other 2 spots I think the versatility of  Karras  (C/G) & Croston (G/T) win out.

Center – David Andrews(1)

Andrews is related to Dan Reeves. Did you know that? Andrews just shows up & gets it done every game. Undersized every snap but bloody tough & more importantly smart. Andrews is always barking out info at the line such as who’s about to blitz & a million other things that help make our system QB look good.

 

It’s easy every year to get excited about the Patriots offense. We’ve seen innovation & versatility stretched to each of their limits & this year is no different. The Patriots will be once again ahead of the league in exploiting defenses, this time with 2 back sets in 21 personnel. Think about defending that & how you would deploy your defenders? The Pats are going to force you to take your best coverage S’s/LB’s out of the box when we spilt Gronk out wide & 1 of Sony/Rex in the slot. We’ll still be able to run the ball & have 1 0n 1’s outside for Brady to exploit (If he’s still even playing football??). The real excitement is this offensive line. We’re bringing back 4 experienced, good-very good starters & adding a stud 1st round pick to the mix. If this team, side of the ball, stays healthy they could be setting records once again.

 

 

Defense – 25

Defensive End – Trey Flowers, Deatrich Wise, Adrian Clayborn, Derek Rivers (4)

For those of you that don’t know, I’m a huge Derek Rivers fan (long before he was drafted by us) & think his addition & health can’t be understated. Rivers is that a nuanced pass rusher screaming around the edge some fans have wanted for a long time. He has a great burst & bend. Plays with high/active hands & can finish. Rivers can really run the arc & should help out our pass rush. Last year I had dreams of him & Flowers terrorizing QB’s together. Hopefully that comes into fruition this year. He could also see some time at LB, as he checks the boxes we like there. I’m very happy & excited about this group as a whole, health permitting. If that happens this is a dead issue.

Linebacker – Dont’a Hightower, Marquis Flowers, Christian Sam, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Kyle Van Noy (5)

This position has caused lot’s of discussions as of late but the Patriots did address the situation. Maybe not to some fans likings but it was it noted in the F.O. We really need 54 healthy, that’s what the “position”comes down to for us. Teams are adding Safety’s & Corners in the game, while taking off LB’s who in some cases are 1 down players nowadays. Truth is if Hightower is right we’re in great shape. I think Bentley & Sam both make the roster & with specific intentions in their roles. Sam, off the ball, replacing Roberts, covering TE’s in the shallow zone, playing clean-up in the run game. Bentley is interesting & obviously more in the Hightower mold. He’s going to be playing closer to the l.o.s. & would give us the ability to rush Hightower & possibly Rivers from the edges if we wanted to (Sorry I can’t help myself). Like Malcolm Mitchell, I’m not putting Langi on the 53 until we see something on the field that warrants it. Really like the player & I know the Pats do, they’ve scouted Langi for years in college. Hopefully he’s healthy enough at some point to see some action.

 

Cornerback – Stephon Gilmore, Jason McCourty, Duke Dawson, Eric Rowe, Jonathan Jones, Keion Crossen (6)

I’m liking this group a lot. We have Gilmore & Rowe to match-up how we see fit but also added a lot of toughness in McCourty, Dawson & Crossen. Crossen was on my & a few other patriot fans radars before the draft. Tough, both physically & mentally. Noted Tom Brady when asked about being overlooked before the draft. This is a guy you can’t help but root for. Think a more fluid Jon Jones, who I’ve always liked as well. Undersized like JJ, but Crossen, can hold his own against certain receivers outside because of his speed, agility & explosion. He’s a tough corner that plays with no fear in run support. I really like the pick & player.

 

Safety – Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung, Duron Harmon, Brandon King (ST),  Jordan Richards(ST), Nate Ebner(S) (6)

A bit thin at first glance but consider Dawson has played significant snaps at Safety & this was noted by Caserio when asked about the selection. The Safety group is as good as it gets in the league in terms of experience, production & big game experience. When you consider the secondary as a whole it looks very good on paper & should just need to gel.

 

Defensive Tackle – Malcolm Brown, Danny Shelton, Lawrence Guy, Adam Butler (4)

Shelton’s play should give us what we missed in Branch last year. That big, impossible to move force in the middle. Cleveland (shockingly) over-drafted Shelton & at times asked him to do something he wasn’t comfortable or able to do, to be blunt. By asking the 340+lb player to play a more attacking, penetrating role. He won’t doing that here & will have a very clear, defined role as the teams only true NT. This looks like a nice rotation though. All versatile, multiple players you can move around a bit.

 

 

I know defense was on the minds of many fans this off-season. The Patriots didn’t make any flashy moves but addressed the DL, LB & CB positions through the draft & F.A. Whether you agree with the moves or not, I actually think we’re looking very good, changes were made. Like almost any Patriots team during this era health is the most important factor. If this defense stays healthy it will be very good. We added/getting back some pass rush, got tougher in the secondary & are getting a top 45 player back in Hightower. When it comes to the defense I’m here for the Hightower, Rivers, Flowers, Wise NASCAR looks.

 

Special Teams – Stephen Gostkowski (K), Ryan Allen (P), Joe Cardona (LS)

 

 

The post Patriot Roster Prediction Part I first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/patriot-roster-prediction-part-i.html/feed 24 36510 Fantasy Football: 2018 Wide Receiver Rankings http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-2018-wide-receiver-rankings.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-2018-wide-receiver-rankings.html#comments Mon, 21 May 2018 15:28:23 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36556 NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler I looked at Running Backs a few weeks ago and will now take an early look at WR’s & TE’s. Neither class set the draft on fire but there’s a bunch of WR’s that could be impact players this year and going forward. And a select few tight ends who […]

The post Fantasy Football: 2018 Wide Receiver Rankings first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

I looked at Running Backs a few weeks ago and will now take an early look at WR’s & TE’s. Neither class set the draft on fire but there’s a bunch of WR’s that could be impact players this year and going forward. And a select few tight ends who could make an impact this year and in the future as well. That said there are few really good rookie’s ended up in ideal situations, with young QB’s they can grow with. Most of the players on the list are versatile guys that can win in a variety of ways and should be on the field a ton.

1)Calvin Ridley – There are plenty of reasons not to have Ridley in this spot & things will most likely change. Wow what a ringing endorsement? In all seriousness though I try not to ignore the obvious & over think things (which I fail hard at) but Ridley is such a great fit in Atlanta. Yes, there are plenty of weapons in the dirty, dirty. Yes, Matt Ryan has trouble connecting with J.J. in red zone. Yes, their offense was peaks & valleys last year. Yes, I will offer you out if you think it sounds like Laurel. Still, the fact remains Ridley is a dynamic weapon that will start right away in the slot. He has + route running that should pay immediate dividends in that position, with J.J. taking coverage away from him. He really refined there. Whether its his footwork, taking a DB’s leverage away by stemming his routes inside/outside, subtle body fakes. He is advanced coming out and will only get better with more proper coaching. Ridley is a gamer with very good play speed and ability to get in/out of his breaks quickly. He can do work in all 3 areas but I really think he’ll feast underneath while J.J. & Sanu stretch the defense. Think curls/comebacks, slants & hitches. Ridley should help in the red zone too. Ridley’s run blocking is lacking & he isn’t the strongest player but he’s pro ready in so many areas. Not the youngest player but you draft rookies for the 1st 4-5 years 90% of the time. Ridley is ready to roll right now.

 

 

2)Michael Gallup – I loved watching Gallup play the position in college. He is a physical, do it all WR who can work all three levels with success. Gallup has the wiggle & shake to make the 1st guy miss & turn a screen into a big gain,  like a RB w/ the ball in his hands. He has the toughness & hands to work crossers over the middle & catch through contact while taking a hit. And at times Gallup also tracked the deep ball like a center fielder. He can get off press & is very good at using his body in route to make adjustments and separate. I saw Gallup use subtle elbow and forearm shivers. And even slight hip checks to separate when up close with a DB. He just gets it done. Gallup was a terrible blocker in college so that must improve but besides that, there aren’t many flaws besides not having ideal size. And despite not having “great” size Gallup was a great 50/50 ball guy in college this past year, making plays much bigger than size would indicate. His all around game is a great fit for Dak. As far as I’m concerned the WR1 is up in the air in Dallas & very well could be taken by Gallup.

 

3)Anthony Miller – Speaking of physical WR’s, let me introduce to Anthony Miller. If you aren’t familiar, get familiar. The Memphis product is a Jim-Dandy of a receiver and should be a favorite target for Trubisky. He’s a cross between Jarvis Landry & Manny Sanders. Miller has the toughness, grit & fight of Landry. And also has Manny’s patience at the line, ability to adjust on certain routes, seemingly making them his own & ability to work inside/outside.  For Miller everything starts with his fantastic footwork. It really is neat. From the stutter step variations, foot fires, to jab steps & his switching up the speed. Miller has + footwork that allows him to win at the line. He’s undersized but tough as hell and absolutely will catch through contact and take a big hit laying out for a ball. He has very good, natural hands. His play is so much bigger than most guys taller and heavier than him. Miller should kill it in the slot but he’s a versatile receiver. His footwork, toughness and route running ability allow him to work outside. That and Miller also gets on top of his man quickly and isn’t shy about his hands as weapons or a distraction. Add in his agility, knack for making people miss and Miller could be a steal for owners and irl. Like the Cowboys, the Bears don’t exactly have an established, productive group but they do have a nice young QB to build around who doesn’t have a favorite weapon yet.

Beautiful timing play. Basically 3 steps, stutter (check out the hands flashing) & fade/back shoulder concept

Peep the footwork, lulling the defender to sleep. So crisp & square with a hard fake. My goodness

 

 

4) Dante Pettis – Dante Pettis is another clever receiver to watch and learn from. Another guy that can win all over the field. On the line, off the L.O.S. Slot, out wide. Pettis is a nuanced, crafty receiver that almost turns into a shape shifter on the field when it comes to throwing defenders head, shoulder & hip fakes. Pettis is also a natural hands catcher that is always looking to snatch the ball out of the air, away from his body. He takes long powerful strides that allow him to vertical quick, very difficult to handle because of how slippery he is. It’s easy to say “jam him” but if you miss or he fights through and you don’t have help or toast with jelly all over you. Like I said earlier Pettis can win almost anywhere and shows + body control while working the sidelines or going up for a ball. He has the ability to make you miss, sink his hips and explode for 6 from almost anywhere. He has 24 TD’s the past 2 years. Pettis isn’t as bad as Gallup when it comes to blocking but he needs some work there. An NFL training program wouldn’t hurt either. That said, he and Jimmy should be bestie’s by years end. Their game and personalities should mesh very well. Both are very easy going, nice, smart guys off the field with a killer instinct on it.

 

Jimmy & Pettis are going to kill the slant/flat concept variations in Shanahan’s offense. Add in Slat/Flat – Vo (vertical) option with Richie James and Taylor and you have a very scary offense.

 

5) Christian Kirk – If Kirk’s head is on straight, (arrested in Feb for Disorderly Conduct but if read between the lines, there’s more there) he’s a dynamic player. Kirk is a smooth moving, thickly built athlete that is a cross between Golden Tate and Stefon Diggs. Kirk is one of those players that moves a lot faster live than on TV. Again he’s a glider that is hard to contain in close quarters. Very slippery in the flat and on screens to give you yac. Good lateral ability to dodge and cut by defenders. Very good hands. Also by now you’ve noticed a trend with most of these receivers and Kirk, like others can win in different areas. His best matchups are probably in the slot but he can go out wide and do work too. Kirk really does a very good understanding of route concepts but is also a threat on returns. Kirk not only has the respect of his teammates and coaches but also from some other giants in the industry like Nick Saban. Who called him the most explosive player in the SEC. The depth chart is wide open for Kirk to take advantage of and like Pettis, has a young QB to grow with.

 

6)D.J. Moore – Now I absolutely Moore, he was WR2 for me this year but I’m not in love with the fit just yet. Moore could easily be in the top 3 on this list in another few months. Right now it’s more of a wait and see situation. It is May? Moore isn’t just a Slot Wr but he should do a lot of damage there. Problem is unless Carolina is running Caff between the tackles a lot more, which is very possible considering Caff’s recent pic’s looked yoked up. Targets don’t look plentiful at first, even if Caff carried the rock more.

There looks to be somewhat of a log jam at the position (Caff and Samuel) until things get clearer this summer. Let’s not forget about Olsen and Funchess either. From a dynasty standpoint I understand an early pick. I understand there will be injuries, the playbook is thick & you can move all these guys around. That said Moore is a fantastic receiver. Moore and Miller are very similar except D.J. is only 21. And going forward, after this year, he should be the alpha dog on offense. He looks like a man killer in the slot. I wouldn’t want to cover him 1 on 1 on critical downs. He has great footwork, excellent hands & is a very tough all around player. Again like Miller he’ll throw his man out the club when blocking. I’ve seen him take a few players out-of-bounds last year. He’s 6′ but will go up and get a 50/50 ball as well. Moore brings a complete game to the NFL and is pro ready. Another thing that can’t be ignored is Moore did it with a “merry-go-round” of QB’s that will never be throwing passes in the NFL. Just get him the ball and he’ll do work.

 

7)James Washington – Washington is a great fit in Pittsburgh. If very Big Ben is nice enough to grace us with his presence for a few more years, he and Washington could become a sweet connection. Washington has been a great deep threat at Oklahoma and there’s no reason he can’t continue that success with Roethlisberger in the steel city. There are times Washington is an ideal deep threat, from his release to the catch point and all the good stuff in between. Washington has some under rated footwork and is a powerful runner. At times he’ll shoot out of his stance like a sprinter and gobble up grass like Pac-Man. Washington has some experience and success with press but corners are very aware of what happens if they miss or he fights through their jam. It’s a wrap for 6. Washington not only has good speed but he can weave and move while maintaining that speed to adjust for the ball or separate from his man. He’s not just a deep threat but Washington can certainly parlay that part of his game into the NFL.

Here he is against Chidobe Awuzie & Colorado

 

8)Courtland Sutton – Sutton has prototype height, weight and game speed. At 6’4/220 Sutton has the footwork and physicality to win at the line. The speed and size to win at the catch point on a deep ball. And in that big body, he has some wiggle to make a defender miss to gain some yac. I’ll post some highlights below to highlight that Sutton can make an impact all over the field. Not often you see someone with that size take a bubble screen for a big gain or make shake defenders off with jukes but Sutton can. It also refreshing to see someone this size use it and not run from his strengths. Sutton has no problem lowering his shoulder into a DB’s chest to make sure he has the 1st down. And will go up to snag a fly ball knowing he’ll get hit and maybe his lower half taken out from underneath him. He was very productive in college amassing over 140 rec’s, 2,200 yards and 22 TD’s the past two years and also is a very good blocker at times. Touches might be hard to come by at first because of the bodies in front of him. He could be a very nice dynasty pick-up for after this year though. I doubt Thomas and Sanders are in Denver much longer after this year. Courtland Sutton and Carlos Henderson (remember the name WR 2017 class) could be the new duo there going forward.

 

9)Equanimeous St. Brown – When you have the 2nd best QB in football throwing the ball to you it tends to make things a lot easier. EQ Rodgers will be able to use St. Brown on some of his most successful routes. Crossers, drags that target underneath and over the middle. St. Brown has a great feel when in man on these routes. At 6’5 he also has the footwork to get off the line, ability sink his hips and coming out fast so DB’s have to respect that. This leads to countless opportunities on comebacks, curls and double moves after seeing those. All that is key but you still want your big receivers to use that size and he does. EQ has a huge catch radius and can box out defenders for possession balls. He really is something in the open field, especially with those long legs. EQ and Rodgers could be fun to watch for years to come.

 

 

10)Antonio Callaway – Antonio Callaway has the traits and tools to be the best receiver in this class. Let’s just get that out of the way now. At times Callaway looks like a cross between Odell Beckham and Reggie Wayne. Callaway can run routes at full speed and get in/out of his without losing any mph. That last part is huge for WR’s at the next level. If you can separate at the line, in route and actually catch the ball, you could have a long career in the league. He has + vision and moves through traffic like a running back. Callaway has the ability to work all over the field and make a play from anywhere. Route running is his specialty though. From simple slants to curls. To the way he stems his deep work. Callaway really puts a stamp on his r/r with precise, sharp movements. Almost robotic and fluid at the same time. Now I started by saying this player has what it takes to be the best in his class. I said that because Antonio has found himself around some creeps too often to be as clear as possible. There’s certain people you just can’t associate with at a certain point, especially not in public and Callaway hasn’t learned that lesson yet. He also failed a drug test for pot recently from the combine. Now that in and of itself, I really don’t care about. Honestly pot is the least of this world’s problem. It’s also extremely hypocritical for a league held together by narcotics to suspend players over weed but that’s another topic. Everyone isn’t the same and context is needed. That failed drug test, on top of everything else is a huge red flag. If Callaway can stay on the right track he could make that Cleveland offense something special. That team isn’t far away from the playoffs imho.

Dynasty Rankings

  1. D.J. Moore
  2. Calvin Ridley
  3. Michael Gallup
  4. Anthony Miller
  5. Christian Kirk
  6. Dante Pettis
  7. Courtland Sutton
  8. James Washington
  9. Antonio Callaway
  10. Equanimeous St. Brown

Sleepers

1)D.J. Chark – 6’3/200, Legit 4.3 speed and easily could have been on here, anywhere from 5-10. Chark is a fantastic deep threat that should help Bortles thrive off play action.

2)Key’vantanie (Keke) Coutee – Waterbug type receiver. Great quicks, speed and good hands.

3)Daesean Hamilton – Good size, just gets open. Might be the best route runner in the draft.

4)Jordan Laasley – Troubled WR in college, suspended multiple times, attitude isn’t the best tbh. He’s quick, accelerates rapidly. Has some shake and enough speed to break it open for 6.

5)Richie James – Undersized at 5’9 but tough as nails and will do it all for his team. He’s an electric receiver that should be a favorite for 49er fans. I loved watching James in college, one of my favorites over the past few years.

6)Auden Tate – Speaking of guys I love, I still can’t believe how far Tate fell. He doesn’t have great speed but he’s fast enough for his size (6’5/225) Tate has great body control in jump ball situations. Strong, natural hands that secure the ball away from his body and a huge wingspan.

 

 

Tight Ends

1) Dallas Goedert – Versatile, big bodied tight end you can line up inline at Y or flex him out in the slot or out wide. Doesn’t go down easy. Should be a nightmare down the seem. Knows how to use his size to shield defenders in the middle and is a red zone monster.

2)Hayden Hurst – The Ravens spent a 1st round pick on a 25 year old tight end (will be 25 Aug 24) so expect they use him heavy. Hurst is a fine prospect, I kid about his age. He’s a bull with the ball in his hands and brings that aggression when he blocks too. The Ravens just invested early picks in two tight ends. Lamar Jackson is the QB of the future there and is very good at iso routes so Hurst or Andrews (#4) could be security blankets for the dynamic quarterback.

 

3)Mike Gesicki – Gesicki is a Jimmy Graham clone that looks exactly like a basketball player playing football. Tall, long strider who can sky to get jump balls with his 40′ inch vertical. Gesicki is also a deep threat and has legit 4,54 speed at 250lbs.

 

4)Mark Andrews – Andrews is a smooth moving, nuanced route runner that offers some yac as well. Not a blocker but a matchup problem for box defenders.

 

 

Again things will change and clear up as camp rolls around. We’ll have some inevitable injuries and cuts to shape the picture as well. I’ll have Quarterbacks later in the week. Please share and comment, thank you.

The post Fantasy Football: 2018 Wide Receiver Rankings first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-2018-wide-receiver-rankings.html/feed 11 36556 2019 NFL Draft: 50 Players You Should Know http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/2019-nfl-draft-50-players-you-should-know.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/2019-nfl-draft-50-players-you-should-know.html#comments Wed, 16 May 2018 15:50:47 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36519   NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler The 2018 draft is over & I’m in full 2019-mode right about now. I made a list of 50 players that I’ve been watching over the past year or two. Some just recently.  This isn’t a top 50 list, I don’t have them ranked in order of where I […]

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NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

The 2018 draft is over & I’m in full 2019-mode right about now. I made a list of 50 players that I’ve been watching over the past year or two. Some just recently.  This isn’t a top 50 list, I don’t have them ranked in order of where I think they are, in terms of “who’s the best”. The season will will play itself out soon enough & that will make things a lot clearer. This is just to get familiar w/ who’s, who. Get some nuggets of info & stay updated as to who might be on the Patriots radar next year.

1)  Zach Allen  DE/BC – Allen, a local product from CT, is a big, thick defensive end that lined up at multiple techniques for B.C. last year. He’s a legit 6’5/280 w/ long arms & at times really knows how to use them. He’ll stab/punch, bull rush & spin off opponents en route to attacking the QB. At times does a good job of keeping his outside shoulder clean in the pas & run game to make plays. Doesn’t get fooled by rpo’s, runs etc. Doesn’t panic & has a readiness about him playing ball carriers behind the line. Allen is the type of player that fits what we like from a size, length standpoint & his overall game seems to fit as well.

2)  Nathan Stanley QB/Iowa – I’m have a feeling Stanley’s name will mentioned more & more as we get closer to the college football season starting. Stanley has very good mechanics, he looks like a classic pocket passer. His arm is also legit. Not a Russell or Allen cannon but he has strength to hit 60 yards easy & at times has shown sweet deep placement & accuracy. He’s taken snaps & made plays from under center, on the run & in S/G. Looks very comfortable on the move & in play action. At times Stanley goes through his reads but you want to see  more of that & an overall better pocket awareness this fall. There’s a lot to get excited about over this player. 6’5/215 first year starter w/ a 26/6 TD-INT ratio.

Here he is here w/ NFL player Sam Hubbard wrapped around his legs. Stays calm, goes through reads & delivers a dart.

3) Devin White LB/LSU – White is a throwback linebacker that has sideline to sideline speed. 6’1/240 but moves like he’s 10lbs lighter. Looks like a bullet when blitzing up through the A/B gaps. Can drop back & clog up the swallow zone w/ his big body. White hits everything w/ bad intentions. The former standout running back is a force in the middle & someone teams will covet come draft time as he’s a beast athletically as well.

 

4) Devin Bush LB/Michigan – While White is a throwback type, Bush is a chess piece made & molded to be moved around. Different players but both versatile players. Bush is a + chase/pursuit player in the backfield & does a good job navigating through the muck to find his target. He’ll also sniff out screens & passing plays developing in the flat. Bush lit up the stat sheet last year as a young player (90 TKL, 10 TFL, 5.5 SKS, 1 INT) & has to do it again but he already looks like a future pro.

 

5) Christian Wilkins DL/Clemson – Wilkins surprised some by coming back this year, 2019 is absolutely loaded along the defensive line. That said Wilkins is a versatile big boy who plays inside/outside & moves like someone who weighs 30 lbs lighter. Wilkins is very agile & nimble for a 310+ guy. Able to get skinny to flash through gaps or muscle through defenders. Wilkins has strong hands & shows + instincts on the field. He can play in a 34/43 & looks built for a multiple team up front.

 

6) Dexter Lawrence DT/Clemson – Going right back to Clemson & looking at another standout interior defender. Lawrence is a freaky mini-mountain in the middle that is going to be a nightmare for G’s & C’s for years to come. Some have Wilkins & Lawrence as a lottery picks, which they very well could be. I just think their value is in the mid 1st & on. And with the depth of the class anything is possible. Lawrence moves like a 300lb pounder & is scheme proof. He’s plug & play day1.

 

7) Daniel Jones QB/Duke – The North Carolina native is a team captain & former 2016 team MVP. Prototype size, tough player that has experience running rpo. Jones has great mechanics from his base to his upper half. Everything always looks the same. His set-up, everything starts with his foot-firing feet that are always moving & putting him in the best spot possible. Good arm that can adjust heat on throws, has enough zip on his passes but could get stronger. At times his head moved just like a clock. I definitely want to see more of that, hopefully leading to a more consistent showing, he’s been up & down for stretches so far in his career. Still there are plenty of tools to work with & his overall game has improved each year from a leadership aspect.

 

8) Julian Love CB/Notre Dame – Love is a thickly built corner who looks like dependable open field tackler & someone who competes for everything. He displayed + route recognition in several games, on several plays I watched. He also looks comfortable in press, zone & off man & also played CB/S in high school.

 

9)  Taylor Rapp – Rapp is an instinctual Safety with very good short area quickness & doesn’t shy away from coming out in run support to make a play. Very efficient in doing so as well. He’s very smooth, seemingly always round the ball or where the action is. Right now he reminds me a little bit of Harrison Smith from the Vikings.

 

10)  Easton Stick – Stick took over for Wentz & lead the Bison  to a title last year. Stick has been up & down & streaky at times but shows + accuracy & placement at times. He also can push the ball down the field like Wentz at times as well. Again its about consistency w/ Stick. At times he’s very much in command of his offense though. Looks the part there.

 

11) Greg Little OT/Ole Miss –Depending on the year he has Little could be the 1st OT tackle in a strong class. He has very good lateral movement & has the toughness & nasty you want protecting your QB. Little has the size, athleticism & skill to be a long time successful NFL player.

 

12)  Nate Herbig G/Stanford – At 6’4+/340 Herbig is a throwback guard that mauls people down & ruins their day when asked to pull across the line. At times reminds you of Will Hernandez who was a top 40 pick this year.

 

13)  Tyrone Wheatley Jr TE/Michigan – Wheatley jr’s father Tyrone Sr played several years in the NFL & the bloodlines have evindently been passed on. Wheatley is a versatile TE that plays inline & is a smooth moving big target across the middle or down the seem. Wheatley Jr shows the ability to stalk block & will straight out muscle some opponents.

 

14) Chauncey Gardner Johnson S/Florida – Gardner-Johnson is a former CB & plays the ball like one. He has very good speed & has natural ball skills. Knows what to do when he gets his paws on the ball. Gardner-Johnson will also deliver big, legal hits if the opportunity presents itself. Florida has been pumping the DB’s out

 

15) Lukas Denis S/Boston College – The local product might be somewhat of unknown right now on the national scene but Denis has top 20 pick written all over him. He just has natural instincts in terms of reading the QB’s eyes & comes up big when he’s near the ball. If you’re trying Denis 20+ yards downfield you better have some arm talent & more importantly “eye” talent. You’re doomed if you stare down a wr. A QB must be able to hold defenders w/ their eyes. Denis also moves like a CB down near the goal line in close quarters. Very calm, heady player that will be playing on Sundays very soon.

 

16)  Ahmmon Richards WR/Miami – Richards is a good route runner w/ + quicks to work inside on slants & has shown the ability to track the ball along the sidelines as you can see below. Richards isn’t the biggest wr but doesn’t lack toughness for someone that’s less than 195lbs.

https://twitter.com/theACCDN/status/994662453219811329

 

17) Tommy Sweeney TE/Boston College – 6’4+/250 from N.J. , Sweeney should have his best year yet at B.C. Last year he was streaky but came up in big spots, against big time teams. Sweeney should be on the field a ton & looks to be a more consistent target in 2018-19.

 

18) Jarrett Stidham QB/Auburn – Stidham would have been at worst a 2nd round pick this year in a very strong class & his stock only looks to improve as we approach next years draft. Stidham is a transfer from Baylor who showed immediate promise at Auburn. He’s very smart w/ + football IQ. He’s accurate but could work on throwing his wr’s open a little better. Mobile & tough. Stidham has to improve his pocket awareness as well but he has plenty of tools to work w/.

 

19) Marvell Tell III S/USC – Big rangy Safety that is just now really getting comfortable at the position. Tell has flashed on several occasions but is still learning the position in many ways. Tell is a former WR/S in high school. Played some strong safety as a FR & moved to FS as SO. 2018 could be a huge year for the multi talented Tell, who is all over the field at times for the Trojans. Teams will specifically looking how he does/improved he is in coverage.

 

20)  DeAndre Baker CB/Georgia – Maybe another UG player? From Miami, Baker is smart player that rarely ever looks confused or out of position. He does a great job of being physical in route & at the catch point. He’s very subtle about uses his hands & arms during a route & forcing a wr away from the ball or towards the sideline.

 

21)  David Edwards OT/Wisconsin – The 2019 OT draft class looks very good & it’s loaded w/ Badger Linemen. Edwards a former TE will be on everyone’s short list of top tier Tackles. He’s mean, long, lean & already very good in both pass pro & run blocking. Edwards decided to come back to Wisoconsin after talking w/ future HOF Joe Thomas. Joe’s advice, “In 20 years, you’ll remember your final year at Madison more than your rookie season in the pros”.

 

22)  JoJo Mcintosh S/Washington – Mcintosh is the other half of the Safety tandem at UW & the enforcer in the secondary. He takes pride in setting the tone & letting the other team know what kind of day its going be. Mcintosh has also shown good instincts & processing speed at times in coverage as well.

 

23)  Paddy Fisher LB/North – The Texas native had a breakout year last season after a 19 tackle effort against Duke in his 2nd game of the year. At 6’3/245 he has the size to plug the holes in the middle & displays the toughness needed in that role. Fisher isn’t a speed demon but rather relies on his instincts & toughness to make a play. Fisher’s eyes are always keying in on where the Center is heading & usually arrives on time to make a play.

 

24)  Miles Sanders RB/PSU – Sanders will be taking over for Barkley at PSU this year. He’s a big time recruit that many thought would have ended up at a “Big Name” School like OSU or LSU but he choose Penn St & will get his shot very soon. He’s a do it all back w/ rec skills, agility, speed & vision. I know PSU coaches & players are excited about him & can’t wait to see what he brings day 1.

 

25)  Isaac Nauta TE/Georgia –  There’s not many players I’m more pumped to watch then Nauta this fall. Nauta is 5 star TE recruit which is pretty rare & has a successful track record but looks like a player just waiting to explode this year.

https://twitter.com/pacificscouting/status/995032349929652224.

He has natural hands that always look to pluck the ball out of the air & the aggression you want to see while run blocking. He’s a very intriguing & tough to bring down at 6’4+/250.

 

26) D.K. Metcalf WR/Ole Miss – Speaking of favorite players to watch, Metcalf is a big body WR that knows how to use his size & strength at 6’3/220. After the catch Metcalf looks like a big RB. Metcalf’s game is starts & ends w/ his physicality. From the line to the caught point Metcalf is a big, strong WR that will look to out muscle & use his body control to secure a catch. After that his powerful strides do the rest. If Metcalf can stays healthy this year he might play himself into the 1st round.

 

27)  Benny Snell Jr. RB/Kentucky – Speaking of physical players Benny Snell Jr always runs very hard & w/ a purpose. Doing that in the SEC for 2400+/30+ is quite impressive considering he’s being game planned around each week as Kentucky’s best offensive player. Snell probably won’t get a ton of love until draft but he’s a reliable, tough runner w/ very good production.

 

28)  Austin Bryant DE/Clemson – Bryant was draftable this year but w/ the rest of his teammates decided to come back. Bryant has the size New England likes at 6’5/270 & is a physical, worker-type that doesn’t just rush up field taking himself out of the play. Bryant will always look to disrupt a play if he can’t make a sack, TFL by getting his hands up to swat down a pass or control the edge so theres nowhere to go outside.

 

29)  Ryan Finley N.C. State – Finley is another player that would have been drafted this year but came back for a shot at the 1st round in 2019. At times Finley looks like a future pro. He has the size, arm, accuracy & football IQ teams desire. He sells play action very well & can work all 3 levels of the field. Finley has a minor scratch on his record w/ an arrest (underage drinking, resisting arrest, dumb stuff a lot of young people do) while at Boise State but has shown nothing but majority since then. Finley plays in a pro style offense that will surely appeal to teams, much like Phillip Rivers, Jacoby Brissett, Russell Wilson & Mike Glennon.

https://twitter.com/JrodDraftScout/status/991127968171872256

 

30)  Josh Allen DE/Kentucky – Allen is a player in the mold of former Georgia, current Bears player Leonard Floyd. He has the same length, athleticism & gumby-like body control & consortium  en route to the QB.

 

31) Beau Benenzschawel G/Wisconsin – I mentioned the Badgers OL when talking about Edwards but the whole group is pretty stacked tbh. Benenzschawel is a really good, versatile player that can seemingly do it all. He’s a natural in pass pro. Balanced, great footwork & overall technique. He could probably plug & play in most teams system right away as a rookie. He’s a very good prospect.

 

32)  Jerry Tillery DT/Notre Dame – Tillery is a beast of a player at 6’6/300 & is coming off his best season to date. Tillery had some maturity issues he moved past from & is switching from NT to 3tech this fall. 3Tech should play to his strengths as Tillery is the most athletic OL’m on the team & will probably play that position at the next level. The DT will look to add to his TFL total from last year & show he’s not a one hit wonder.

 

33)  Anthony Nelson DE/Iowa – Nelson is a workmen-like linemen that makes each snap a fistfight in itself. The Iowa native is mix power, length & burst at 6’6/270. Nelson also does a good job of controlling his man & setting the edge to prevent anything from bouncing outside.

 

34)  Anthony Johnson WR/Buffalo – Johnson is quicker than fast but has deceptive speed to get behind corners & for the most part runs clean, crisp routes on all 3 levels. Johnson should be in for a big year if both him & Jackson can stay healthy for a full season.

 

35)  Shea Patterson QB/Michigan – Patterson was a Ole Miss transfer that should really benefit from a year w/ Coach Harbaugh. Patterson is so fun to watch. His game & path in football both resemble Russell Wilson. Patterson has to do a better job staying sturdy w/ his base when moving around & scrambling. If his feet aren’t set it doesn’t end up well, which is the case for most QB’s & athletes. Patterson as the ability to work all 3 levels while on the move but needs a little refining. The traits & tools are there though. Arm talent, accuracy/placement, scrambling ability & make “it” happen when the odds are against you.

 

36) Sam Beal CB/West Michigan – At 6’1 Beal has ideal height & length for the position & knows how to use it w/ 20+ PD/INT over the last 2 years. Beal will need to show he can add & maintain weight to help his play strength to really get the best out of his abilities.

 

37)  Bryce Love RB/Standford – Love looks like Dion Lewis 2.0. Both undersized but run even smaller, closer to the ground to maximize their balance & ability to explode through a hole. Love runs w/ a sweet blend of patience & quickness its impressive to watch. His shiftiness is easy to spot but it’s the subtle, small moments of patience that make him a + runner. He has to improve his pass pro & isn’t utilized in the rec game so hopefully he showcase some improvement in both this fall to really maximize his stock come draft day.

 

38)  Alec Eberle C/FSU – Eberle is fleet of foot center that gets to the 2nd level in a hurry & is eager to hit someone when he gets there. The problem I see coming his weight & ability to execute & maintain blocks, 1 on 1, at the next level. At times Eberle can also get too ahead of himself & work himself out of a play or doesn’t take the proper angle to the defender. With some added weight, the ability to maintain it & Eberle could be a good pro player.

 

39)  Dalton Risner OT/Kansas St – Risner looks like a plug & play run blocker w/ quick choppy feet & the nastiness to get after defenders to the whistle. He has to get stronger to take on top-tier power players at the next level but has shown a ton of promise so far. Effort & “want to” aren’t a problem, Risner is football player I suspect could play another position along the line if needed.

 

40)  Levonta Taylor CB/FSU – Taylor is one of the best cover corners coming back this fall. Taylor has very good route recognition & isn’t afraid to break off his man to make a play on the ball. Taylor didn’t allow a TD last year & was sticky in coverage all year w/ a rating of less than 15% when targeted.

 

41)  Ross Blacklock DT/TCU – Blacklock, a Big 12 co-Freshman Defensive Player of the Year will be looking to build off a very nice start to his college career. Blacklock is a busy bee DT w/ a motor that will bring him out to the flat to lay out an opponent. High energy, smart player & someone to remember this fall.

 

42)  Sewo Olonilua RB/TCU – One of the more interesting players at RB this year, Olonilua is a big (6’3/230) RB that has been under utilized at TCU so far. He makes the most of his opportunities (6 TD/37 carries) & has experience as a gaol line & wild cat runner. One can’t help what Sewo would look like w/ a full work load for a season. He has shown some nice explosion & wiggle for a big boy. He’s definitely one to watch this fall.

 

43)  Tyler Johnson WR/Minnesota – Johnson is a former multi sport star in high school, including playing QB & helping his basketball team to a championship his SR year. A high character person & smart football player, Johnson is capable of working all 3 areas of the field. He was on pace to SO WR records last year before getting hurt for the last 2 games. He might not be a 1st round player or big name prospect but looks like he can help a team on the field & in the locker room.

 

44)  Tyree Jackson QB/Buffalo – Last year  (long before the national & local media talked about it)  I talked about the possibility of Lamar Jackson coming to New England. I brought up that the next franchise QB ,might be coached by Josh, not Bill.  And Jackson was young enough & talented enough to sit & learn for next head coach in New England. The Patriots showed what looked like genuine interest but ending up passing on Lamar. Enter Tyree Jackson, I brought him up few weeks ago in a piece about possible future Pats QB’s & it’s apparent all eyes will be own the Buffalo QB this fall. Jackson might be the most intriguing QB prospect in the class. He’s 6’6/240 w/ an absolute rocket of an arm that can touch 60+ yards w/out much effort. Jackson  showed the ability to really push the ball down field but also has a natural “stick & shoot” accuracy about him on intermediate passes. Like all college players he needs work in some areas. He has to tighten up his release, just some tinkering not a huge issue. Jackson also has to improve his pocket awareness & mental processing on reads but has a ton of potential.

 

45)  Deebo Samuel WR/South Carolina – Reminds me a little bit like Anthony Miller in the sense that he’s undersized but as tough as they come at that position. Doesn’t mind getting dirty & understands blocking is a big part of playing the position. Samuel is another guy that turns into a RB when he gets his hands on the ball. Goods hands, runs sharp routes. Contributes on special teams as a return man. Samuel might not get the hype he deserves but he can absolutely play on Sundays.

 

46)  Porter Gustin  DE/USC – Gustin is a smart player w/ a non stop motor. He has the speed to rush the passer & toughness to play in trenches on occasion. Gustin has + athleticism & the ability to stop/start quickly to mirror & chase opponents.  He’ll be an effective chase & pursuit player along the backside of the line. He looks like he could play some DE or OLB for a multiple team like the Pats.

 

47)  Shaq Quarterman LB/Miami – Shaq has looked like a player from day 1 at Miami. Smart, + instincts, always looking for trouble & brings it fast. He looks like a 1st round pick, plug & play type player. Quarterman is a difference maker in the middle & sidelines but also has PD, TFL & a few sacks as well on his resume.

 

48)  Terry Beckner Jr DT/Missouri – Beckner Jr is an extremely talented defensive linemen who sustained a torn ACL/MCL & other damage on his first play in action against BYU last year  & also tore is other knee (left one) in 2016. Beckner was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school who might be a nice value pick some where in the draft if he keeps his nose clean (arrested for marijuana in 2016) from now on. It’s tough not to imagine the type of player he could have been but a lot of the gifts are still there. He looks like a bit of a project that could pay dividends a year or so after you draft him.

 

49)  Chase Winovich DE/Michigan – Winovich is a former Tight End turned do it all player for Don Brown at Michigan. Winovich lines up almost everywhere along the line & brings the heat from inside & outside. Winovich quietly had very nice year in 2017 & was one of the Wolverines best defenders that no one talks about. A repeat or better year from Winovich will have him top 75 contention.

 

50)  Noah Fant  TE/Iowa – Big, easy moving target that looks like a nightmare to cover screaming down the seem. Not only a big target but Fant has + athleticism & should be a top 50-60 next year, if not the 1st TE off the board. Fant is a glider that will get on top of a defense quick if he’s not physically impeded.

 

 

 

Again this isn’t my top 50 list. Just guys I’m familiar w/ & fit the Patriot-Type mold in some way. It’s early & things will change but some of these players will absolutely be on New England’s radar in 2019. Please share & let me know what you think!

The post 2019 NFL Draft: 50 Players You Should Know first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/2019-nfl-draft-50-players-you-should-know.html/feed 15 36519 Post Draft Scouting Report: Ryan Izzo, TE and UDFA’s http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-ryan-izzo-te-and-udfas.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-ryan-izzo-te-and-udfas.html#comments Thu, 10 May 2018 20:48:47 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36527 NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken It is time to put a bow on the 2018 NFL Draft. Typically with any teams last pick, the player might be a guy no one really knows a lot about. This year, the Patriots did that with their second to last pick when they chose Keion Crossen. The Patriots […]

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Does this late round prospect have a chance to make the Patriots 53 man roster?

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

It is time to put a bow on the 2018 NFL Draft. Typically with any teams last pick, the player might be a guy no one really knows a lot about. This year, the Patriots did that with their second to last pick when they chose Keion Crossen. The Patriots final pick however was a guy many draftniks not only knew, but had a much higher grade on. I personally had given Izzo a 5th round pick and was shocked he lasted as long as he did. On the other spectrum, I didn’t put Izzo on my Big Board because I thought the Tight End room in New England was really crowded and I didn’t think the value of a mid round Tight End pick was there. To get a mid round talent with one of the final picks of the draft changes things however, and I am fully on board with the pick. So, does Ryan Izzo have a chance to make the team despite his late round draft slot? Let’s look at his game and find out.



Positives:

Izzo is one of the best, if not the best in line blockers from this draft class. He has strong, active hands and he sticks with blocks much like a good offensive lineman would. He has good size for the position from a height and weight perspective. He is a feisty blocker in the run game and takes pride in his blocking. He is a reliable pass catcher and fights for every yard after the catch. He is a high character guy who does the little things to for the good of the team.

Negatives:

Izzo has shorter than ideal arms and will lose against longer armed defenders. He is an okay athlete, but does not have the speed to be a difference maker as a pass catcher. He does not have the quickness or change of direction to create separation and needs to be better at winning contested catches. Izzo is not much of a threat after the catch.

Overall:

While Izzo does not have the elite athletic skills that so many teams look for nowadays at the Tight End position, he could carve out a role with the Patriots as a blocker who can be relied on to catch the ball if need be. He won’t ever be guy you build an offensive game plan around, but he is such a hard nosed, tough, blocker in both the running and passing game that he might make this team over a much more expensive guy like Dwayne Allen. Not bad for a guy who was drafted just a few picks before the draft ended.

 

UDFA’s:

The Patriots signed a few interesting UDFA’s after the draft. Here are three guys I think have a shot at making the roster either this year or down the road.

JC Jackson, Maryland: So, I had a 4/5 grade on this guy. I liked his ability to plant his foot and come back quickly towards the ball. He has the speed to run with even the fastest receivers down field. He is an aggressive player in both the passing and run game. He had some major off field issues at Florida which led to him being kicked off the team and probably a main reason for his fall in the draft. He is a little slow in his recognition skills and relied on his speed to bail him out. The tools are there and he has a shot to make this team.

Ralph Webb, Vanderbilt: Webb is a north south runner who runs with good contact balance. He does not have much in terms of elusiveness, but was very productive in the SEC on a bad team. He does a decent job in pass protection and can catch the ball. Webb will most likely be a practice squad candidate with the Patriots crowded backfield.

George Atkins, Georgia: Atkins is a true fire hydrant in the middle. He is built low to the ground and is a true gap plugger. He has some athleticism and long arms for his size. He flashed some ability to shoot through gaps, but his role will be to occupy blockers so others can make plays. Again, his role this year will probably be on the practice squad, but if he can show enough there might be a long term job for him on the roster with the potential turnover at the position.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post Post Draft Scouting Report: Ryan Izzo, TE and UDFA’s first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-ryan-izzo-te-and-udfas.html/feed 19 36527 Fantasy Football: RB Rankings/Sleepers http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-rb-rankingssleepers.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-rb-rankingssleepers.html#comments Thu, 10 May 2018 15:16:13 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36517   NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler Over the past few years we’ve seen an influx of versatile weapons at the running back position. Whether it be an upgrade in talent, creative coaching or a combo of both. The position is definitely taking over the league & the grip will only get stronger going forward. Football […]

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NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

Over the past few years we’ve seen an influx of versatile weapons at the running back position. Whether it be an upgrade in talent, creative coaching or a combo of both. The position is definitely taking over the league & the grip will only get stronger going forward. Football has always been about playing to your players strengths & taking advantage of the opposing teams weaknesses. There’s probably no bigger mismatch in todays games then a Bell, Johnson or McCoy out in space vs a LB. Now more than ever you have abundance of players capable of exploiting those match ups. The game is always changing & it’s cool to see it evolve.

When it comes to fantasy football landing spot is key. Here’s an early look at my top ppr rookie RB’s & some sleepers to keep an eye on.

1)Sony Michel – This is going out on a limb of sorts. I’m buying the potential of the situation but I don’t feel it’s that far-fetched. Michel is playing behind the GOAT QB/OL Coach & a top 10 OL. I mean normally this is a no brainer. The position has shown immediate translation to the league & New England just lost their best option in the backfield.  There are 2 points of obvious you can’t ignore. Michel’s fumble rate, which wasn’t a problem in terms of selecting him 1st round. And the RBBC approach some fear. This is the most legitimate concern. That said I believe Michel is the Patriots best runner day 1 & will take the majority of touches we lost with Lewis. If Burkhead is healthy he’s going to get more touches than last year but he’s Sony. Michel is as versatile, elusive & fast as Kamara with more power. Again if he stays healthy, doesn’t drop the rock, he’s tearing up this league 100%.

 

2)Royce Freeman – Freeman is somewhat under rated right now but the big bruising back with great balance landed in an optimal spot. He’s the best RB on the roster & will be starting day 1. With Keenum at QB, Denver will want to control the clock & ball on offense. That means leaning on a player like Freeman who eats up carries, bounces off defenders & will set the tone on that side of the ball. Freeman is a grind it out type back that offers rec ability, doesn’t fumble & will get goal line duties. Denver’s offense isn’t going to get the juices going in May but there’s a lot of upside there. From a fantasy perspective & irl. That division isn’t locked down by any one team. Broncos could definitely make some noise this year.

 

3)Saquon Barkley – Some might think I have Barkley low & that could be the case but I’m not buying the Giants just yet, I love Barkley but just don’t love the collective yet. The Giants have a ton of talent but have been lacking in coaching, chemistry & execution as of late. The pieces are there but have to be properly performed on the field. That said Barkley, Beckham, Shepard, Engram could be the best skill group in the league if New York’s OL & QB are up to the task, among other moving parts like a new coaching staff. The left side of the OL should be fun to watch though. Solder is a great player, better person but Will Hernandez is an absolute bulldozer in the run game.  As a dynasty pick, i could see an argument for #1 because going forward his potential is amazing in the right situation.

 

4)Derrius Guice – Guice is that prototype violent every down back that has succeed for decades in the league. Derrius has great vision, special power & a fierce jump cut that leaves defenders somewhere else. The only problem here is the coach. Gruden has already come out & said he’s only using him for 1st & 2nd downs which is nonsense. Now Jay Gruden forgot more than I’ll ever know about the game but Guice is a 3 down back.  Somebody please copy/paste that last sentence & have a plane carry that messege over Washington’s practices. Some players take a bit of projecting but Guice has displayed his soft hands before. Now he’s not going to catch 60+ balls a year but he has tons of potential there. LSU players come from a very conservative offense to say the least. Some coaches will ask players to only do certain things in college. That doesn’t mean said player isn’t capable of it & adding it to their arsenal. Guice will be a better pro than college player & an every down back in this league because he can pass protect as well.

 

5)Kerryon Johnson – I really love this pick & the Detroit backfield will be a nightmare for opposing defenses to tackle & get ahold of. Johnson is a bull of a back but has Bell-type patience & tremendous rec ability. Detroit has been in desperate need of an upgrade at the position & has to have that every down threat to complete that offense. Johnson has shown that he can be all those things in terms of versatility & done it against the best competition in college football. Now Blount is there & will have an impact but I think by mid-season/seasons end Johnson is the feature back there. He’s a big back that can help control the tempo & gives the offense something Blount can’t in his rec ability. This is his spot, he just needs to take it.

 

6)Rashaad Penny – Penny is someone I really loved coming out. Very productive, really nice vision & elusiveness. Penny also offers special team versatility in the return game & can catch the ball. Seattle really needs that “other” guy for Wilson who is seemingly doing everything by himself these days. Penny can control tempo. He’s a smart runner that gets from A to B quick, falls forward but also can take it for 6 every other play it seems. He’s a big, thick back that has a + fumble rate too. Seahawks really need someone to take some pressure off Wilson & Penny has the potential to excel in that role. Of course that entire team has been hampered & held back by the overall OL play the last few years. That issue has to get fixed going forward.

 

7)Ronald Jones – Jones might be a little low here but I have to see what his value is worth with that staff. Keotter really likes a few guys already there but Jones offers something both don’t. He’s a little undersized, might run a tad too high but Jones has legit burst & speed to take for 6 from anywhere. He has the quicks to escape outside & the ability to make people miss in the open field. His rec ability is the big wildcard. His value could shoot up if that area improves & gets more volume going forward. He’s more than capable of being that guy. Still, Jones offers potential starter upside on a team that just lost it’s best RB.

 

8)Nick Chubb – The Browns just scare people & little children in general so its always tough pulling the trigger on a Cleveland player but things are turning around there. Chubb is a tough, downhill runner who will carry a defender or two with him on some runs. He’s a freak in terms of measurables & as mentally tough as they come. It’s been rumored he has better hands than some believe too. Michel just excelled in that area at UG. The backfield is a little crowded but Chubb has been there, done that & come out on the other side. The Browns team is actually a lot closer than most realize but the coaching & front office continuity, overall competence has been so putrid for decades. The Browns could have a really good offense. They have some nice skill weapons in Gordon, Njoku, Landry & Coleman. A good OL but most important & finally have a QB. Whether it’s Taylor or Mayfield in 2018-19 the offense will be a lot better but I think it could be a surprise if Baker starts.

 

9)Nyheim Hines – Hines is a chess piece that will give D.C.’s fits if probably utilized. He’s a tough, gritty undersized RB that will do most of his damage 3rd down & in the rec game. Hines has real experience at WR. More importantly he has the speed & juke moves to leave defenders behind. Hines is a big play threat, he has several TD’s of over 45+ yards on his career. One of the “knocks” on Hines was that he’s more of an athlete than RB or WR. I see that as potential waiting to be molded. Hines won’t be n every down back but he’ll make an impact for sure.

 

10)Mark Walton – Walton reminds me a lot like Kareem Hunt. Very tough runner with + contact balance & vision. Undersized but again tough as nails. He’ll give you some yac. Walton also has + rec ability with several highlight reel catches on his resume. Whether it’s an over the shoulder catch on a wheel route or just a simple screen/dump off Walton big play capability. Doesn’t have great speed but he has very good acceleration & more enough speed to win.

 

 

 

5 Sleepers in no real order with a chance to make some noise.

Kallen Ballage – H/W/S freak. Very tough inside zone runner that ran the wildcat at times. Ballage  ia a great rev weapon, tons of potential there. Looks like a big TE at times. Huge mismatch in the rec game. Straight away runner, doesn’t offer much wiggle.

Chase Edmonds – Is definitely someone you want to grab if you have the opportunity. Edmonds is a smaller back & went to a small college. He also had to deal with injuries that kept him off the field. Despite that he’s wildly productive & versatile. Edmonds has over 85 rec’s in his career. Multiple 1600+ seasons & an array of jukes, cuts & spins that leave defenders looking helpless.

John Kelly – is another guy that could very well have a Hunt-like effect on a team. Unfortunately starting duties are out of the question for the immediate future but the potential is there if the case should present itself to Kelly. Like Hunt, Walton, Kelly runs low to the ground & has great contact balance, running right through defenders would be attempts.

Trenton Cannon – I interviewed Cannon before the draft & he couldn’t have been nicer. Truth be told that’s not why he’s on the list & definitely not why he was drafted. That would be because he has real skills to help a team. Cannon has great acceleration, is a rec threat & can make an impact on special teams in the return game. Cannon might not be a “name” player, yet. That doesn’t matter. What matters is he what it takes to be a 3rd down factor & weapon on s/t’s.

Jordan Wilkins – is someone to keep an eye on this summer. Very nice footwork, at times very decisive. Just plants & hits hole with aggression. Very good in the open field with + agility. He definitely could make some noise on that team/backfield & isn’t likely to cost you a high pick.

 

Top 10 Dynasty RB’s (As of now)

  1. Barkley
  2. Guice
  3. Michel
  4. Freeman
  5. Penny
  6. Chubb
  7. Johnson
  8. Jones
  9. Hines
  10. Walton

 

Wide Receivers & Tight Ends next week.

 

 

 

The post Fantasy Football: RB Rankings/Sleepers first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/fantasy-football-rb-rankingssleepers.html/feed 5 36517 Post Draft Scouting Report: Keion Crossen, DB http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-keion-crossen-db.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-keion-crossen-db.html#comments Wed, 09 May 2018 15:25:40 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36504 NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken Well, the Patriots got me on this one, but in all fairness, it didn’t sound like they knew who Crossen was until they saw him at the Wake Forest Pro Day just a few weeks before the draft. So, who is this kid and what did he show the Patriots […]

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Is this small school Corner’s athletic ability enough to get him on the Patriots?

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

Well, the Patriots got me on this one, but in all fairness, it didn’t sound like they knew who Crossen was until they saw him at the Wake Forest Pro Day just a few weeks before the draft. So, who is this kid and what did he show the Patriots that would make them so inclined to use a late round pick on him. I scoured the internet to find as much Western Carolina football tape as I could find and here is my take on Crossen on the limited viewing I had of him.

Like I said above, Crossen came onto the Patriots radar after his stellar workout at the Wake Forest Pro Day. Check out what he was able to do there:

Height: 5’9″

Weight: 178 Lbs

40 Yard Dash: 4.33 sec

Vertical: 39.5″

Broad Jump: 10’11”

Short Shuttle: 4.01 sec

3 cone: 6.67 sec.

Bench: 13 reps

Positives:

First off, those Pro Day results are eye popping. He is very explosive and it shows up on film. He has tremendous click and close ability. His change of direction skills show up as well, but it is his speed that really pops on tape. I saw him catch a WR who was on the opposite side of the field and had a 10 yard head start. I know it is against a lower level of competition, but the guy was still athletic enough to play college football. Crossen is a willing tackler despite his smaller size and he seems to play with some attitude, which I like. Crossen is smooth in his transitions and looks comfortable flipping his hips and running with Receivers. His change of direction skills are excellent and he shows the ability to mirror Receiver in the routes. He tracks the ball well and gets his hands on a lot of balls.

Negatives:

There are two obvious issues with Crossen and his game. One is competition level. While he has the athletic traits that are needed to play in the NFL, he just has not faced much competition throughout his career. He had a decent game against UNC, so that is encouraging. His learning curve will be steep though when trying to cover NFL Receivers week in and week out. The other big concern is size. Even at the level of competition he played at, he struggled in press man and trying to get physical with Receivers. There were times where he was late recognizing routes, but his athleticism made up for it. In the NFL, that will not work.

Overall:

Obviously, this is a traits based pick. Crossen brings athleticism that cannot be taught and the team is hoping they can develop the rest of his game. He is a long term project who might be able to develop into a contributor down the road. His lack of size will always be a concern, but he plays bigger than his size and ultimately might find a role as a slot corner or a dime sub package player. It will be interesting to see how Crossen looks this training camp and if he shows enough to make the practice squad.

The post Post Draft Scouting Report: Keion Crossen, DB first appeared on NEPatriotsDraft.com - 2017 NFL Draft.]]> http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-keion-crossen-db.html/feed 7 36504 Post Draft Scouting Report: Danny Etling, QB http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-danny-etling-qb.html http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/2018/05/post-draft-scouting-report-danny-etling-qb.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2018 17:08:17 +0000 http://www.nepatriotsdraft.com/?p=36479 NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken Well, we all thought the Patriots would draft a Quarterback, and that is exactly what they did. Of course, most of us thought it would be five or six rounds earlier, but obviously we were all very wrong. Etling was not a guy who was on my radar. LSU had […]

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Does this 7th round pick have what it takes to be the heir apparent to Tom Brady?

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

Well, we all thought the Patriots would draft a Quarterback, and that is exactly what they did. Of course, most of us thought it would be five or six rounds earlier, but obviously we were all very wrong. Etling was not a guy who was on my radar. LSU had plenty of talent on both sides of the ball that you would think Etling would have moved the needle at some point, but in that run heavy offense, I never really gave him too much thought. So, I went back and watched all those LSU games again, this time focusing on Etling and his play. Here is what I saw.


 

Positives:

From a physical standpoint, Etling checks the boxes of what teams look for in a draftable QB. He has the frame to handle the punishment NFL defenders can delve out. On the field, Etling is known as a team leader and a very good decision maker. He rarely will throw ill advised balls, which keeps his interceptions down. His throwing mechanics are solid and he has a quick release. He has an above average arm for the short to intermediate throws required to be successful in the NFL. Etling shows above average touch and accuracy on short to intermediate throws. He is not known as a threat as a runner, but can make some plays with his feet when necessary. He has played in several types of offenses and has a lot of experience under center in a traditional pro style offense.

Weaknesses:

I watched a lot of tape, and it seemed like Etling really struggled with arm strength and deep ball accuracy. I was surprised when I saw that he had a decent completion percentage on the deep ball, because it didn’t seem to show up on tape. He has good upper body mechanics, but his footwork is inconsistent. He is very much a rhythm thrower and when things start to break down, his footwork goes out the window. He has far too many throws off his back foot or he is flat footed, even when the pocket is clean. Poor mechanics led to incomplete passes to wide open receivers on all three levels.  He tends to lock onto his first read and needs to work on going through his progressions. There were times he would miss wide open receivers because he didn’t scan the field.

Overall:

For a seventh round pick, Etling has certainly become a polarizing player already for Patriots fans. Is he the future? Is he the next Brady? Most likely not. I think what got him in the door was his toughness, his leadership, his work ethic, and his command of the huddle. Those are things that cannot be taught. The on field stuff can be improved. He is a guy who will put in the work to get better, and that is all you can ask for at this point. He has mechanical issues, but they are fixable. He does not have the strongest arm. The same was said about Brady coming out. Do I think the Patriots struck gold twice with a late round QB that is going to become a Hall of Famer? No. Etling has the basic tools that can be developed and the intangibles teams look for in a QB, but that does not automatically make for a great QB. Let’s not forget, he is a 7th round pick. By August, he may just be a memory. The best we can hope for is that he develops into a serviceable backup who could make a start or two if needed, but even that is a long term projection.

So… I am trying to make my own gifs now, so bear with me if these don’t look good or are not right. I will keep it to a minimum on this first report just in case. At his best, this is what you can expect from Etling. He has very good mechanics on this throw, and the results are very good, despite the drop from the Receiver. If he can learn to do this on a consistent basis, he has a shot. The problem right now is, this is the exception and not the norm.

 

 

 

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