Simpleton
DCC 4Life
- Joined
- Apr 8, 2013
- Messages
- 23,877
You'd hope these dumbass scouts don't repeat the same mistake as last year but who knows anymore.
2024 Draft Big Boards, Position Rankings & Mocks
- Thread starter boozeman
- Start date
- Status
You'd hope these dumbass scouts don't repeat the same mistake as last year but who knows anymore.
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
I've never even watched an interview of the guy if I'm being honest. Hopefully our guys actually gave him a serious interview and do a full background on the guy.
Simpleton
DCC 4Life
- Joined
- Apr 8, 2013
- Messages
- 23,877
I haven't either and even if I had I don't think you can really judge a guys motivation/work ethic from that. Maybe you could gauge his general intelligence, although not necessarily football intelligence.
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
The good news is I feel like we do well with the Olineman. Other positions, not as much.
Plan9Misfit
Appreciate The Hate
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 7,706
Couldn’t resist the opportunity to rob Washington of its 1st and 2nd round picks in 2025.
Last edited:
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 145,415
McGinn's grouchy scouts...
In this initial three-part series, the projected top 55 players in the 2024 NFL draft will be examined. Personnel people offered their assessments of players last month before the start of workouts at the combine. Their comments were based almost exclusively on their exposure to players both in live looks and tape study. My rankings, arranged in order within each position, were influenced to an extent by results from the combine. For example, 40-yard dash times will play a critical role in stacking prospects at cornerback and wide receiver, among other positions. But remember, when these scouts were interviewed, they had almost no verified 40 times in addition to no verified heights and weights on underclassmen.
This projected Top 55 will lead to my NFL Draft Series, which I’ve been assembling annually since 1985.
-
OFFENSE (32)
Wide receivers (9)
Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State (6-3, 209): Fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. “He’s the real deal,” one scout said. “He’s legit. He’s everything they say. He’s huge, he’s quick, he’s got sneaky speed and he catches everything.”
Caught a mere 11 passes as a member of the Buckeyes’ loaded wide-receiver group as a true freshman before catching 144 passes for 2,474 yards (17.2 average) and 28 touchdowns in the past two seasons. “They had a bad quarterback (Kyle McCord) this year and he still averaged 18.1 yards a catch,” said a second scout. “He’s good on back shoulders, fades, traffic catches. He’s a lot bigger than his dad (Marvin Sr., who was 6-0, 180 coming out in 1996). He reminded me of Calvin Johnson with his size, quickness, hands, speed, body control and run after the catch.” One of the first players in combine history to shun the scheduled media interview; also didn’t work out. “Calvin’s much more gifted,” a third scout said. “I kind of liken him to Larry Fitzgerald. And, of the top handful of guys (wide receivers), his character is the cleanest. He’s going to be a great NFL player just like Larry Fitzgerald was. Very similar.”
Malik Nabers, Louisiana State (NA): NFL teams have no verified height, weight or speed after he declined measurements and testing in Indianapolis. “He’s not Harrison,” one scout said. “If you see that he’s better than Harrison, just ignore it. He’s more of that D.J. Moore kind of player. Thick running-back build. They do a lot of that underneath movement, slip-screen stuff with him. He’s a good player, a really good player. Tough, strong. I don’t think he has elite ball skills. He’ll be a good starter.” Had four dropped passes in the eight games broken down by another scout. “That was the only thing that disappointed me,” he said. “But they were all on slants and hitches so I think he’s so anxious to run after the catch that he doesn’t concentrate sometimes. He has the best run-after-the-catch of the group. After the catch this guy is just sensational. This guy’s quicker than Justin Jefferson but Justin Jefferson is stronger and better in traffic. Nabers is amazing after the catch, and that’s what it’s all about, really, today.” Finished second in college football last season with 1,569 receiving yards. “He’s more physically talented than Harrison but he’s not as big and not as much of a pro as Marvin is,” said a third scout. “He’s got some volatility, some immaturity. Of the top three guys, if there’s one whose makeup would not allow him to reach his potential, it might be Nabers. But he’s very passionate about football and plays the game that way and is highly competitive. The other (top) kids are just so damn clean.”
Rome Odunze, Washington (6-3, 212): Saved his best for last, compiling career bests in 2023 for receptions (92), yards (1,640), average (17.8) and TDs (13). “He might be faster than Harrison,” said one scout. “Harrison is more powerful. Who is he like? Tim Brown. He has Tim Brown’s smoothness. All of a sudden he’s on top of you and he’s gone. He’s a complete receiver, too. He can catch, run after the catch and he blocks.” His 40 time at the combine was 4.45, his vertical jump of 39 inches was excellent and his shuttle runs were outstanding. “He’s a great kid and it wouldn’t surprise me if Odunze ended up being the best of the class,” a second scout said. “What’s crazy is he has production and there were three receivers there (Washington) that are getting drafted. He could be the slam dunk of the group. He’s not getting as much (hype) now but let’s be honest, some of that is because he’s on the West Coast.” Finished with 214 receptions and a 15.3 average. “He’s good, but I have some issues with his quickness and his ability to separate,” a third scout said. “He’s strong, but his lack of explosiveness really bothered me. You hear, ‘He makes these great plays,’ but none of them are really high in the air. They’re all where he bodies guys and they’re lower catches. You just don’t do that in the NFL. You better go up over somebody. I think he’ll be a solid pro. Nothing special.”
Brian Thomas, Louisiana State (6-3, 209): Another in the long line of standout wideouts in Baton Rouge. “That’s ‘Receiver U,’” one scout said. “He’s completely different than Nabers. This guy is tall, long (32 ¾-inch arms), vertical. He can run now. Reminded me a little of Plaxico (Burress), that movement. Not a silky-moving athlete but can change direction. Has size, length and strength running routes.” Helped himself immensely with 4.34 clocking at the combine, the second best at the position. “He’s got huge speed but he’s not as good a receiver as Nabers,” said a second scout. “He can really fly. He’ll play a long time.” More than doubled his 2021-’22 production in ’23 with by far his finest season. “I see the talent in that guy but he has been an underachiever,” a third scout said. “Makeup-wise, it’s a little bit of a concern. He’ll go top 40. He’s just got too much.”
Xavier Worthy, Texas (5-11, 165): Records aren’t available from the early years of the combine that dates to the mid-1980s. His 4.21 clocking in Indianapolis was regarded as the fastest in recent years. “I compared him to Jaylen Waddle,” said one scout. “When they try to press him it’s (tough). Plus, he averaged 16.9 on punt returns. Only negative I had was the weight.” Extreme three-year production. “He’s got height — he’s just skinny,” a second scout said. “He’s like a taller Hollywood Brown. If you’re looking for a vertical big-play guy he’s the guy.” His vertical jump (41 inches) and broad jump (10-11) also ranked among the top five among wideouts. “You kind of have to have a special role for him,” one scout said. “He’s not going to be an every-down, let’s-get-this-guy-running-slants-all-day guy. His hands are a little suspect. He’s a Will Fuller kind of guy. That (Waddle) is a pretty good comparison. If he jumps out and runs a 4.3 somebody (team) will go crazy, which I think he might.”
Adonai Mitchell, Texas (6-2, 205): Undoubtedly shocked some personnel men by running a blistering 4.34. “It’ll depend on his speed,” one scout said Feb. 7. “He was more of the possession receiver and Xavier Worthy was more explosive. He’s something like Brian Thomas. All he does is catch the ball and gain yards. Good in traffic. He couldn’t get on the field at Georgia so he left. Had a good season.” Caught just 38 passes in two seasons for the two-time CFP champion Bulldogs but four were for touchdowns in playoff games. “He’s a big dude. Sneaky with his routes,” said a second scout. “Really good feel for using his body. He can change directions for a big guy. Can make big-time plays in the air. Knows how to get deep, setting up people by being strong in the middle.” His 11-4 broad jump led the position. “More third round,” said another scout who, of course, spoke last month (Feb. 28). “More of a perimeter player. He is a pretty talented athlete.”
Xavier Legette, South Carolina (6-1, 221): Played five years in Columbia, starting 32 of 53 games. “He reminds me of A.J. Brown,” one scout said. “Physical, strong, competitive, can run. He’s the one you think, ‘What are people missing on this guy?’ Kind of a late bloomer. He is talented.” Followed an impressive week at the Senior Bowl in January with a 4.39 40 and 40-inch vertical jump at the combine. “He’s a big ol’ country kid,” said a second scout. “Naïve, but he’s a good kid. He’s not a real good route runner but he’s big and has really strong hands. He can high-point it down the field as good as anybody. He might sneak into the first but I wouldn’t. I’d damn sure take him in the second.” Most of his 29 kickoff returns came in 2022-’23. Career average was 26.4. “He’s got some intelligence issues that might be a concern,” a third scout said. “But he’s big, physical and can run.”
Keon Coleman, Florida State (6-3, 213): Hard to say how much Coleman’s chances to be a top choice were damaged Saturday with his 4.61 time in the 40. That ranked 29th among the 30 wideouts that participated. “He’s almost 6-3, will run in the 4.4s, is really athletic, has great ball skills,” one scout said. “Big kid, very gifted. Not playing in a super dynamic pro offense. He’s got a little more developing than the other (top) guys but he’s not far off from those guys.” Two scouts regarded him as a surefire selection in the first round. “I don’t think he’s as explosive as the three top guys but he’s really good in traffic and he’s a good punt returner, too,” a second scout said. “He runs, catches and blocks.” Demonstrated his athletic ability with solid results in the vertical (38) and broad (10-7) jumps. Played a year of basketball at Michigan State, where he had a 58-reception season in 2022 before hauling in 11 TDs in ’23 for the Seminoles. “I just don’t see anything there,” a third scout said. “Big guy but doesn’t have any quickness, explosion or speed. Doesn’t separate well. They try to throw all these slip screens to him and he doesn’t have much run after the catch. Just a No. 3 type. Third round. I don’t see a first-round guy whatsoever.”
Troy Franklin, Oregon (6-2, 176): Worked out well in Indy with a 4.41 40 and a 39-inch vertical jump. “He’s kind of in the same mold as the Texas kid (Worthy),” one scout said. “Decent height but skinny. Fast. Kind of hard to play in Oregon’s offense if you’re not fast.” Sixth in the NCAA last season with 1,383 yards. Averaged 17.1 and led the Pacific-12 Conference with 14 receiving TDs. “Solid dude, knows how to play,” said a second scout. “Don’t see much explosiveness or playmaking. You like him in the second or third (rounds).” A third scout said junior Tez Johnson was the most impressive wideout in Eugene last season. “Big-play ability but disappeared in some games,” he said. “I questioned his strength and blocking attitude.”
Tight ends (2)
Brock Bowers, Georgia (6-3, 243): Declined to work out at the combine. “I think he’s better than the kid Atlanta took from Florida (Kyle Pitts),” said one scout. “Not as fast. He’s the most no-brainer, top-10 tight end I’ve seen in a long time. He’s not an outgoing guy. Just goes about his business. Not rah-rah, not a leader, but he’s a hell of a player. His run after the catch is phenomenal.” In three seasons he caught 175 passes for a 14.5 average and 26 TDs. “He runs such good routes,” another scout said. “You wouldn’t think he’d be all that quick but he runs by people. Exceptional athletic ability, strong hands, speed. You’re not going to jam him. You can’t jam. Because he’ll run right through you. He separates.” Underwent Tightrope surgery to repair a high-ankle sprain late in the season and returned 26 days later. “You got this little guy who’s not a really good athlete and you’re saying he’ll be a top-10 pick?” a third scout said. “I just don’t see it. He’s been built up over the last couple years that he’s like Kittle and Kelce. He is not those guys. He is not explosive. He’s not fast. They schemed the hell out of him to get him balls, and he does a good job with that. He does have really good hands when he’s free. But if you’re just talking about a dynamic playmaker — he is not it. He cannot block, either. He looks small small. I bet he’ll be 230. Maybe he’ll beef up and all that.”
Jared Wiley, Texas Christian (6-6, 249): Started 12 of 32 games at Texas from 2019-’21 before making the most of his two seasons with the Horned Frogs. “This is really an interesting guy,” said one scout. “He is really a top receiver and he’s 6-6. He can be a receiving tight end. If he runs 4.7 he could jump up there. It’s tough to find somebody like that.” Clocked 4.62 with a 37-inch vertical jump. “He is the underwear model cover,” a second scout said. “Athletic, really good ball skills. He’s not a conventional ‘Y’ in terms of dominating you with power but his blocking did improve significantly from 2022 to 2023. Travis Kelce is not knocking anybody’s head off as a blocker. You’re being athletic, you’re getting in the way, and that’s a lot like this guy. He was a quarterback in high school. He clearly understands the game. Somebody’s going to get a bargain with him.” His 47 receptions in 2023 ranked fourth among Power Five tight ends.
-
Offensive line (13)
Joe Alt, T, Notre Dame (6-8 ½, 321): His father, Jon, was 6-7, 270 out of Iowa in 1984 when Kansas City drafted him No. 21 in 1984. His 13-year career with the Chiefs included two Pro Bowls. “He’s just like his dad,” one scout said. “Natural left tackle, just smooth like his dad was. I imagine he worked with his dad because his pass technique is just exceptional and he has great pad level as a run blocker.” Played some tight end in 2021 for the Fighting Irish before settling in at LT. “He’s kind of no-frills but he’s a big human,” another scout said. “Probably not the ideal left tackle athlete but he’s good enough. Great kid, clean character. He probably has the least wow of the top three (tackles) but he’s also probably the most consistent performer. He’s a guy that sometimes we try to overthink and talk ourselves out of. He’s like Joe Thomas. He’s pro ready.” Ran 5.05, and his 3-cone of 7.31 ranked third among the O-linemen. Arms were 34 ¼, hands were 10. “Not a real powerful guy at this point but he can really pull,” a third scout said. “He’s only played three years. He’s a true junior. He’s my No. 1 left tackle.”
Olu Fashanu, T, Penn State (6-6, 312): Immediately after finishing his first 40 (5.11) Sunday, he pulled up with a thigh injury and called it a day. Made just eight starts in 2023 because of various injuries. “What’s a little bothering about him is he has not played an entire season healthy,” one scout said. “He had an injury his first year when he was a backup. A concussion. Then he had something else last year and missed five games. This year he was dragging his left leg a little bit starting in the Ohio State game (Oct. 21). Hats off to him for playing. This is a big, powerful human being. He’s probably more of a right tackle than a left tackle if you’re nitpicking but he can do whatever he wants. He’s had one bad game as a pass protector. Great kid. Basically impossible to bull rush. Good run blocker.” For a large man, his hand size (8 ½) was unbelievably small. Arms were 34. “I like him best because he’s nasty,” a second scout said. “He not only is an athlete and strong, with feet and movement, but he likes to put people on the ground. Reminded me of Tony Boselli. The guy’s special.” Performed solidly in both jumps. “Work in progress,” a third scout said. “Not really powerful at the point of attack, not really nimble in space. In pass pro I just don’t see an elite movement guy. If someone takes him and says, ‘Go out there and start,’ they’re going to be in for a lot of heartache.”
Troy Fautanu, G-T, Washington (6-3 ½, 317): Fifth-year senior. “He’s not as tall but he’s about 320 and not an ounce of fat on him,” one scout said. “I really, really like the athlete. I could see him playing left tackle because his pass pro is unreal. Plus, he’s got some prick in him. (Taliese) Fuaga played hard; he’s just not as mean as this guy. The combination of mean and athletic usually doesn’t happen. Usually you’re asking for one or the other. I think he can play left tackle at 6-3 ½ because he compensates with almost 35-inch arms and exceptional feet. Of the top guys, he has the best feet.” Arms were 34 1/2, hands were 9 ½. “He may be the best pure athlete of the whole group,” a second scout said. “I think he’ll end up being a guard because he’s so quick and mobile. He won’t have the height or arm length you want for left tackle but he can play left tackle. I have him in the top 10 picks but I don’t know if you take a guard there. The Colts took that guy from Notre Dame (Quenton Nelson, No. 6, 2018) but I think I can find guards.” Clocked 5.01. His 31 starts included 29 at LT and two at LG. “He’s my No. 1 inside guy,” said a third scout. “He reminds me of Alijah Vera-Tucker that came out of SC. He’s been hurt but he’s a really good player when he’s been healthy. Fautanu is quick as can be, a really good athlete, his balance is awesome, he’s got a jolt to him. He just looks like a guard.”
JC Latham, T, Alabama (6-6, 342): Backed up in 2021 before starting at RT for two seasons. “Mauler,” one scout said. “Cleveland drafted (Jedrick) Wills (2020, No. 10) that I didn’t like but I like this guy. They’re totally different. Down through the years I don’t normally like Alabama offensive linemen that much. Only negative thing about Latham is he played the right side and he’s too nasty for his own good. Everything he does is square. Square run blocking, square pass protect. People don’t move the guy at all.” Latham embarrassingly getting run through by Michigan edge rusher Josaiah Stewart (6-1, 237) to end the national semifinal playoff game has been brought up in draft rooms. “That’s part of the maturity aspect,” a second scout said. “He’s not the same level of professionalism right now that the other two (leading) guys are. There are some slight mental concerns and some immaturity. There’s probably a click more of a bust factor. But he’s got the most upside (compared to Alt and Fashanu). He’s a giant, but he doesn’t play like a slug. It’s going to be, ‘Are you comfortable with the kid? Do you feel you’ll be able to get the best out of him?’” Didn’t run a 40. Arms were 35 1/8, hands were 11. “Here’s a 340-pound dude that’s athletic as can be and built like a damn house and the little guy, No. 5 (Stewart), runs him over,” a third scout said. “That’s the kind of guy he is. I’ve never seen a guy just stand and watch plays as much as this guy. When he’s wired in you see some stuff where he can move, control and bury them. But 95% of the plays he just kind of gets in the way and watches. It’s so frustrating. I wasn’t crazy about the guy from there a couple years ago, Evan Neal, and he turned out to be a disappointment. He’s kind of cut from the same cloth.”
Taliese Fuaga, T, Oregon State (6-6, 324): Four-year player, two-year starter at RT. “He’s probably the next guy just because he’s so big and he’s not a big slug,” one scout said. “He’s a little bit more of a right tackle-guard than left tackle. But he is powerful. He’s a pretty easy mover for such a giant. At the Senior Bowl he looked a little bit more like a Pro Bowl inside player but the school tape is really good at tackle.” Clocked 5.13. “Played right tackle but he can play left,” a second scout said. “Dominant run and pass blocker. He destroyed (Laiatu) Latu of UCLA. I didn’t want to put him up with the other (leading) guys but the more I watched him I had to. He shows leverage, tenacity, nasty. Destroys people. Good pass-block technician. Has a great anchor.” Arms were just 33 1/8, hands were 10 1/8. “I keep trying to like him,” said a third scout. “He’s a solid right tackle only. Not really light on his feet. You need feet to control and sustain. He’s kind of a one-shot guy. If you get (the opponent) initially, you got it. But if he’s got to adjust to sustain I didn’t really see that. For me, he’s second round, but I know where he’s going (first round).”
Jordan Morgan, T, Arizona (6-5, 311): Compared by different scouts to the Vikings’ two starting tackles. “He reminded me of Christian Darrisaw,” one said in reference to Minnesota’s left tackle. “In pass pro he can mirror guys. Light on his feet. Technique-sound, positions easy. He can pull. He can run. Not a powerful guy, but he works at it. He’s my No. 2 tackle.” The. other scout thought of Brian O’Neill, the right tackle in Minnesota. “What he is, he’s a technician with nice feet,” he said. “He isn’t physical. He’s more like Paris Johnson. Excellent pass blocker, adequate run blocker. Natural left tackle. Not as strong or nasty as the other top guys. That guy from Pittsburgh (O’Neill) had no strength at all. People just bounced him around. That’s who this guy is. He has the feet.” Ran 5.04. Arms were just 32 7/8, hands were 10 7/8. “He is the most finesse of all the top guys,” said a third scout. “I don’t think he’s not tough; he’s just a finesse player. He’s really smart with high character. He can probably play all five (positions). If you got him in the second you’d be doing backflips.”
Amarius Mims, T, Georgia (6-7 ½, 340): Spectacular size, superlative arm length (36 1/8), thin resume make him one of the draft’s more intriguing prospects. “He’s a freak talent but I don’t think he started 10 games in his career,” one scout said. “He’s just a giant. You watch some of the stuff he does, it’s horrible. But it wouldn’t surprise me if someone took him in the first based on upside. And it’s not like he’s been sitting behind Joe the Mailman. He’s been playing behind guys that were getting picked high in the draft.” Rotated in 2022, making his first two starts in the playoffs. Career total of eight starts at right tackle. “When Mims played,” a second scout said, “he looked like an athlete with feet. He wasn’t very physical at all.” Clocked 5.07. His short shuttle of 4.33 ranked second among offensive linemen. “He is a project project,” said a third scout. “He is a long, long, long ways away. Not as athletic as people say. Because he looks like an athlete doesn’t mean he is actually athletic. He and Latham are the same: ‘Do you like playing?’ He’s not very aggressive. He can use his length initially to get on guys but doesn’t work to finish, his feet aren’t great, balance is off.” Largest hands (11 ¼) at the position.
Graham Barton, C-G, Duke (6-5, 313): Started five games at center in 2000 when two teammates were injured before starting at LT from 2021-’23. “I don’t think he’ll be a Pro Bowl left tackle but he can play there,” one scout said. “He can be a Pro Bowl center because of his intelligence and athletic ability. You’re getting a really good Swiss Army knife player. He’s a can’t-miss kid. His handicap is lack of length (arms were 32 7/8). He is really athletic. I don’t think he’s going to improve dramatically. That’s not a knock on him. He’s heady. He’s ready to go right now. He’s a lot like some of these linemen from Iowa that come out and are ready to go.” Didn’t run or jump at the combine. Hands were 9 3/8. “He’s got to be a center,” a second scout said. “I give him his due for being a left tackle. He’s got all the technique and all the effort but he is weak and he’s always on the ground. They either wreck him and throw him down, or he just gets stood up. But he fights, he works, he’s got enough athletic ability. No chance at tackle. For guard, I don’t think he’s strong enough. He’s got that classic center profile.”
Tyler Guyton, T, Oklahoma (6-7 ½, 322): Played sparingly at TCU from 2020-’21 before moving to Norman and making 14 starts at RT in 2022-’23. “He’s talented, but there’s some unknowns based on what you see on film,” one scout said. “The film’s not (great) but you’re talking about a 6-7, 330-pound guy with 34-inch arms and a natural athlete. His technique just isn’t very good. Definitely a finesse style. But he can be a starting left tackle. Not a bad kid. You could really hit on him if you’re comfortable with the makeup.” Clocked 5.19. His vertical jump of 34 ½ was fifth best at the position. “He and Mims are similar,” a second scout said. “Gigantic, plays young, too. Not a quick-footed athlete in pass pro. Just another project. He needs a lot of work.” Arms were 34 1/8, hands were 10 ¼.
Patrick Paul, T, Houston (6-7 ½, 331): Made 44 starts at left tackle during a five-year collegiate career. “He looks good,” said one scout. “He looks like an NBA basketball player. He’s an easy mover for such a big guy. You’re going to get pissed about his lack of discipline and technique. You’re going to get pissed because he’s not powerful. Then you have to keep reminding yourself, ‘OK, he’s 6-7, 330, 36 3/8 and he’s gonna play.’ I don’t know how you can pass a guy like this up.” Arms were 36 ¼, hands were 9 3/8. “Love the long arms but a knock-kneed guy,” a second scout said. “Just a limited athlete. Poor technique, hands are wide every snap. Wide, wide. Put your hands inside. Plays top-heavy. Not really a nimble athlete. Just a project because he’s so tall and long. Third or fourth round.” Clocked 5.14.
Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut (6-2 ½, 317): In April 2022, after Haynes had made 24 starts at RG in his first four years in Storrs, the UConn staff and coaches told scouts they weren’t recommending him as an NFL prospect. After a boffo week at the Senior Bowl and a solid showing at the combine, he’s expected to be taken in the first two rounds. “Against Michigan in 2022 they’re getting the **** kicked out of them (59-0) and you’d think the national championship was on the line the way the guy was playing late in the fourth quarter,” said one scout. “He’s going to play pretty early. If he’s your starting guard you’re really happy with him. He’s never played center in a game but I think he could do it. Bad body. If you do him off the body you won’t like him.” The Huskies were 13-48 during Haynes’ five seasons under Randy Edsall and Jim Mora Jr. “You just don’t see people just block and play to the whistle and after the whistle like this guy anymore,” said a second scout. “He’s just an old-school, tough, nasty guy. He is explosive. He can jolt guys at the line of scrimmage. He can really run and pull and adjust. In pass pro, he can slide, change directions. He holds a little bit too much, but that’s just his over-exuberance. I just love his attitude.” Clocked 5.03 with a 33-inch vertical. Arms were 33 ½, hands were small at 9.
Kiran Amegadjie, T, Yale (6-5, 323): Played just four early games in 2023 before suffering a season-ending injury. “Now they were four good games,” one scout said. “I already liked his stuff from 2022 but I thought he showed a step in development (this year). That (missing games) will hurt him in addition to Yale and being raw. But I don’t see how you pass him in the second round. He’s too big and talented. Oh, God, he can do whatever he wants. Still growing as a player. He really didn’t see himself as a professional football player until before his junior year. Of all the top guys he’s probably got the most development necessary, but he’s really talented. You get this guy in the right place with the right coach and you could really have something.” Played LT for the Bulldogs but also has worked at guard. “I don’t get it,” a second scout said. “He’s a good-looking kid for the Ivy League. It’s like he shouldn’t be there. But he wasn’t a dominant, productive player in the Ivy League. If you’re from a small school you’ve got to kick ***. He just kind of blends in.” Didn’t run or test at the combine. Arms were 36 1/8, hands were 9 5/8.
Tanor Bortolini, C-G, Wisconsin (6-4, 303): Worked out as well if not better than any offensive lineman in Indianapolis. His 40 of 4.94 tied for second best whereas his times in the two agility runs (4.28 short shuttle, 7.16 3-cone) were first. “Really good athlete,” one scout said. “Not real physical. Strength is just OK. He can hold up. He’s got some anchor. He’s just very, very smooth. He’s really good as a zone-type blocker. Second-level, downfield. Real good technician. I’ve got him in the second round.” Started 27 of 35 games, including 13 at center, 13 at guard and one at tight end. “I’m not sure he isn’t better than (Oregon’s Jackson) Powers-Johnson,” said a second scout. “But he’s got (short) arms. I think he’s probably a center only. He can probably be a pretty good center. Third round.” Arms were just 31 ½, hands were 10.
In this initial three-part series, the projected top 55 players in the 2024 NFL draft will be examined. Personnel people offered their assessments of players last month before the start of workouts at the combine. Their comments were based almost exclusively on their exposure to players both in live looks and tape study. My rankings, arranged in order within each position, were influenced to an extent by results from the combine. For example, 40-yard dash times will play a critical role in stacking prospects at cornerback and wide receiver, among other positions. But remember, when these scouts were interviewed, they had almost no verified 40 times in addition to no verified heights and weights on underclassmen.
This projected Top 55 will lead to my NFL Draft Series, which I’ve been assembling annually since 1985.
-
OFFENSE (32)
Wide receivers (9)
Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State (6-3, 209): Fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. “He’s the real deal,” one scout said. “He’s legit. He’s everything they say. He’s huge, he’s quick, he’s got sneaky speed and he catches everything.”
Caught a mere 11 passes as a member of the Buckeyes’ loaded wide-receiver group as a true freshman before catching 144 passes for 2,474 yards (17.2 average) and 28 touchdowns in the past two seasons. “They had a bad quarterback (Kyle McCord) this year and he still averaged 18.1 yards a catch,” said a second scout. “He’s good on back shoulders, fades, traffic catches. He’s a lot bigger than his dad (Marvin Sr., who was 6-0, 180 coming out in 1996). He reminded me of Calvin Johnson with his size, quickness, hands, speed, body control and run after the catch.” One of the first players in combine history to shun the scheduled media interview; also didn’t work out. “Calvin’s much more gifted,” a third scout said. “I kind of liken him to Larry Fitzgerald. And, of the top handful of guys (wide receivers), his character is the cleanest. He’s going to be a great NFL player just like Larry Fitzgerald was. Very similar.”
Malik Nabers, Louisiana State (NA): NFL teams have no verified height, weight or speed after he declined measurements and testing in Indianapolis. “He’s not Harrison,” one scout said. “If you see that he’s better than Harrison, just ignore it. He’s more of that D.J. Moore kind of player. Thick running-back build. They do a lot of that underneath movement, slip-screen stuff with him. He’s a good player, a really good player. Tough, strong. I don’t think he has elite ball skills. He’ll be a good starter.” Had four dropped passes in the eight games broken down by another scout. “That was the only thing that disappointed me,” he said. “But they were all on slants and hitches so I think he’s so anxious to run after the catch that he doesn’t concentrate sometimes. He has the best run-after-the-catch of the group. After the catch this guy is just sensational. This guy’s quicker than Justin Jefferson but Justin Jefferson is stronger and better in traffic. Nabers is amazing after the catch, and that’s what it’s all about, really, today.” Finished second in college football last season with 1,569 receiving yards. “He’s more physically talented than Harrison but he’s not as big and not as much of a pro as Marvin is,” said a third scout. “He’s got some volatility, some immaturity. Of the top three guys, if there’s one whose makeup would not allow him to reach his potential, it might be Nabers. But he’s very passionate about football and plays the game that way and is highly competitive. The other (top) kids are just so damn clean.”
Rome Odunze, Washington (6-3, 212): Saved his best for last, compiling career bests in 2023 for receptions (92), yards (1,640), average (17.8) and TDs (13). “He might be faster than Harrison,” said one scout. “Harrison is more powerful. Who is he like? Tim Brown. He has Tim Brown’s smoothness. All of a sudden he’s on top of you and he’s gone. He’s a complete receiver, too. He can catch, run after the catch and he blocks.” His 40 time at the combine was 4.45, his vertical jump of 39 inches was excellent and his shuttle runs were outstanding. “He’s a great kid and it wouldn’t surprise me if Odunze ended up being the best of the class,” a second scout said. “What’s crazy is he has production and there were three receivers there (Washington) that are getting drafted. He could be the slam dunk of the group. He’s not getting as much (hype) now but let’s be honest, some of that is because he’s on the West Coast.” Finished with 214 receptions and a 15.3 average. “He’s good, but I have some issues with his quickness and his ability to separate,” a third scout said. “He’s strong, but his lack of explosiveness really bothered me. You hear, ‘He makes these great plays,’ but none of them are really high in the air. They’re all where he bodies guys and they’re lower catches. You just don’t do that in the NFL. You better go up over somebody. I think he’ll be a solid pro. Nothing special.”
Brian Thomas, Louisiana State (6-3, 209): Another in the long line of standout wideouts in Baton Rouge. “That’s ‘Receiver U,’” one scout said. “He’s completely different than Nabers. This guy is tall, long (32 ¾-inch arms), vertical. He can run now. Reminded me a little of Plaxico (Burress), that movement. Not a silky-moving athlete but can change direction. Has size, length and strength running routes.” Helped himself immensely with 4.34 clocking at the combine, the second best at the position. “He’s got huge speed but he’s not as good a receiver as Nabers,” said a second scout. “He can really fly. He’ll play a long time.” More than doubled his 2021-’22 production in ’23 with by far his finest season. “I see the talent in that guy but he has been an underachiever,” a third scout said. “Makeup-wise, it’s a little bit of a concern. He’ll go top 40. He’s just got too much.”
Xavier Worthy, Texas (5-11, 165): Records aren’t available from the early years of the combine that dates to the mid-1980s. His 4.21 clocking in Indianapolis was regarded as the fastest in recent years. “I compared him to Jaylen Waddle,” said one scout. “When they try to press him it’s (tough). Plus, he averaged 16.9 on punt returns. Only negative I had was the weight.” Extreme three-year production. “He’s got height — he’s just skinny,” a second scout said. “He’s like a taller Hollywood Brown. If you’re looking for a vertical big-play guy he’s the guy.” His vertical jump (41 inches) and broad jump (10-11) also ranked among the top five among wideouts. “You kind of have to have a special role for him,” one scout said. “He’s not going to be an every-down, let’s-get-this-guy-running-slants-all-day guy. His hands are a little suspect. He’s a Will Fuller kind of guy. That (Waddle) is a pretty good comparison. If he jumps out and runs a 4.3 somebody (team) will go crazy, which I think he might.”
Adonai Mitchell, Texas (6-2, 205): Undoubtedly shocked some personnel men by running a blistering 4.34. “It’ll depend on his speed,” one scout said Feb. 7. “He was more of the possession receiver and Xavier Worthy was more explosive. He’s something like Brian Thomas. All he does is catch the ball and gain yards. Good in traffic. He couldn’t get on the field at Georgia so he left. Had a good season.” Caught just 38 passes in two seasons for the two-time CFP champion Bulldogs but four were for touchdowns in playoff games. “He’s a big dude. Sneaky with his routes,” said a second scout. “Really good feel for using his body. He can change directions for a big guy. Can make big-time plays in the air. Knows how to get deep, setting up people by being strong in the middle.” His 11-4 broad jump led the position. “More third round,” said another scout who, of course, spoke last month (Feb. 28). “More of a perimeter player. He is a pretty talented athlete.”
Xavier Legette, South Carolina (6-1, 221): Played five years in Columbia, starting 32 of 53 games. “He reminds me of A.J. Brown,” one scout said. “Physical, strong, competitive, can run. He’s the one you think, ‘What are people missing on this guy?’ Kind of a late bloomer. He is talented.” Followed an impressive week at the Senior Bowl in January with a 4.39 40 and 40-inch vertical jump at the combine. “He’s a big ol’ country kid,” said a second scout. “Naïve, but he’s a good kid. He’s not a real good route runner but he’s big and has really strong hands. He can high-point it down the field as good as anybody. He might sneak into the first but I wouldn’t. I’d damn sure take him in the second.” Most of his 29 kickoff returns came in 2022-’23. Career average was 26.4. “He’s got some intelligence issues that might be a concern,” a third scout said. “But he’s big, physical and can run.”
Keon Coleman, Florida State (6-3, 213): Hard to say how much Coleman’s chances to be a top choice were damaged Saturday with his 4.61 time in the 40. That ranked 29th among the 30 wideouts that participated. “He’s almost 6-3, will run in the 4.4s, is really athletic, has great ball skills,” one scout said. “Big kid, very gifted. Not playing in a super dynamic pro offense. He’s got a little more developing than the other (top) guys but he’s not far off from those guys.” Two scouts regarded him as a surefire selection in the first round. “I don’t think he’s as explosive as the three top guys but he’s really good in traffic and he’s a good punt returner, too,” a second scout said. “He runs, catches and blocks.” Demonstrated his athletic ability with solid results in the vertical (38) and broad (10-7) jumps. Played a year of basketball at Michigan State, where he had a 58-reception season in 2022 before hauling in 11 TDs in ’23 for the Seminoles. “I just don’t see anything there,” a third scout said. “Big guy but doesn’t have any quickness, explosion or speed. Doesn’t separate well. They try to throw all these slip screens to him and he doesn’t have much run after the catch. Just a No. 3 type. Third round. I don’t see a first-round guy whatsoever.”
Troy Franklin, Oregon (6-2, 176): Worked out well in Indy with a 4.41 40 and a 39-inch vertical jump. “He’s kind of in the same mold as the Texas kid (Worthy),” one scout said. “Decent height but skinny. Fast. Kind of hard to play in Oregon’s offense if you’re not fast.” Sixth in the NCAA last season with 1,383 yards. Averaged 17.1 and led the Pacific-12 Conference with 14 receiving TDs. “Solid dude, knows how to play,” said a second scout. “Don’t see much explosiveness or playmaking. You like him in the second or third (rounds).” A third scout said junior Tez Johnson was the most impressive wideout in Eugene last season. “Big-play ability but disappeared in some games,” he said. “I questioned his strength and blocking attitude.”
Tight ends (2)
Brock Bowers, Georgia (6-3, 243): Declined to work out at the combine. “I think he’s better than the kid Atlanta took from Florida (Kyle Pitts),” said one scout. “Not as fast. He’s the most no-brainer, top-10 tight end I’ve seen in a long time. He’s not an outgoing guy. Just goes about his business. Not rah-rah, not a leader, but he’s a hell of a player. His run after the catch is phenomenal.” In three seasons he caught 175 passes for a 14.5 average and 26 TDs. “He runs such good routes,” another scout said. “You wouldn’t think he’d be all that quick but he runs by people. Exceptional athletic ability, strong hands, speed. You’re not going to jam him. You can’t jam. Because he’ll run right through you. He separates.” Underwent Tightrope surgery to repair a high-ankle sprain late in the season and returned 26 days later. “You got this little guy who’s not a really good athlete and you’re saying he’ll be a top-10 pick?” a third scout said. “I just don’t see it. He’s been built up over the last couple years that he’s like Kittle and Kelce. He is not those guys. He is not explosive. He’s not fast. They schemed the hell out of him to get him balls, and he does a good job with that. He does have really good hands when he’s free. But if you’re just talking about a dynamic playmaker — he is not it. He cannot block, either. He looks small small. I bet he’ll be 230. Maybe he’ll beef up and all that.”
Jared Wiley, Texas Christian (6-6, 249): Started 12 of 32 games at Texas from 2019-’21 before making the most of his two seasons with the Horned Frogs. “This is really an interesting guy,” said one scout. “He is really a top receiver and he’s 6-6. He can be a receiving tight end. If he runs 4.7 he could jump up there. It’s tough to find somebody like that.” Clocked 4.62 with a 37-inch vertical jump. “He is the underwear model cover,” a second scout said. “Athletic, really good ball skills. He’s not a conventional ‘Y’ in terms of dominating you with power but his blocking did improve significantly from 2022 to 2023. Travis Kelce is not knocking anybody’s head off as a blocker. You’re being athletic, you’re getting in the way, and that’s a lot like this guy. He was a quarterback in high school. He clearly understands the game. Somebody’s going to get a bargain with him.” His 47 receptions in 2023 ranked fourth among Power Five tight ends.
-
Offensive line (13)
Joe Alt, T, Notre Dame (6-8 ½, 321): His father, Jon, was 6-7, 270 out of Iowa in 1984 when Kansas City drafted him No. 21 in 1984. His 13-year career with the Chiefs included two Pro Bowls. “He’s just like his dad,” one scout said. “Natural left tackle, just smooth like his dad was. I imagine he worked with his dad because his pass technique is just exceptional and he has great pad level as a run blocker.” Played some tight end in 2021 for the Fighting Irish before settling in at LT. “He’s kind of no-frills but he’s a big human,” another scout said. “Probably not the ideal left tackle athlete but he’s good enough. Great kid, clean character. He probably has the least wow of the top three (tackles) but he’s also probably the most consistent performer. He’s a guy that sometimes we try to overthink and talk ourselves out of. He’s like Joe Thomas. He’s pro ready.” Ran 5.05, and his 3-cone of 7.31 ranked third among the O-linemen. Arms were 34 ¼, hands were 10. “Not a real powerful guy at this point but he can really pull,” a third scout said. “He’s only played three years. He’s a true junior. He’s my No. 1 left tackle.”
Olu Fashanu, T, Penn State (6-6, 312): Immediately after finishing his first 40 (5.11) Sunday, he pulled up with a thigh injury and called it a day. Made just eight starts in 2023 because of various injuries. “What’s a little bothering about him is he has not played an entire season healthy,” one scout said. “He had an injury his first year when he was a backup. A concussion. Then he had something else last year and missed five games. This year he was dragging his left leg a little bit starting in the Ohio State game (Oct. 21). Hats off to him for playing. This is a big, powerful human being. He’s probably more of a right tackle than a left tackle if you’re nitpicking but he can do whatever he wants. He’s had one bad game as a pass protector. Great kid. Basically impossible to bull rush. Good run blocker.” For a large man, his hand size (8 ½) was unbelievably small. Arms were 34. “I like him best because he’s nasty,” a second scout said. “He not only is an athlete and strong, with feet and movement, but he likes to put people on the ground. Reminded me of Tony Boselli. The guy’s special.” Performed solidly in both jumps. “Work in progress,” a third scout said. “Not really powerful at the point of attack, not really nimble in space. In pass pro I just don’t see an elite movement guy. If someone takes him and says, ‘Go out there and start,’ they’re going to be in for a lot of heartache.”
Troy Fautanu, G-T, Washington (6-3 ½, 317): Fifth-year senior. “He’s not as tall but he’s about 320 and not an ounce of fat on him,” one scout said. “I really, really like the athlete. I could see him playing left tackle because his pass pro is unreal. Plus, he’s got some prick in him. (Taliese) Fuaga played hard; he’s just not as mean as this guy. The combination of mean and athletic usually doesn’t happen. Usually you’re asking for one or the other. I think he can play left tackle at 6-3 ½ because he compensates with almost 35-inch arms and exceptional feet. Of the top guys, he has the best feet.” Arms were 34 1/2, hands were 9 ½. “He may be the best pure athlete of the whole group,” a second scout said. “I think he’ll end up being a guard because he’s so quick and mobile. He won’t have the height or arm length you want for left tackle but he can play left tackle. I have him in the top 10 picks but I don’t know if you take a guard there. The Colts took that guy from Notre Dame (Quenton Nelson, No. 6, 2018) but I think I can find guards.” Clocked 5.01. His 31 starts included 29 at LT and two at LG. “He’s my No. 1 inside guy,” said a third scout. “He reminds me of Alijah Vera-Tucker that came out of SC. He’s been hurt but he’s a really good player when he’s been healthy. Fautanu is quick as can be, a really good athlete, his balance is awesome, he’s got a jolt to him. He just looks like a guard.”
JC Latham, T, Alabama (6-6, 342): Backed up in 2021 before starting at RT for two seasons. “Mauler,” one scout said. “Cleveland drafted (Jedrick) Wills (2020, No. 10) that I didn’t like but I like this guy. They’re totally different. Down through the years I don’t normally like Alabama offensive linemen that much. Only negative thing about Latham is he played the right side and he’s too nasty for his own good. Everything he does is square. Square run blocking, square pass protect. People don’t move the guy at all.” Latham embarrassingly getting run through by Michigan edge rusher Josaiah Stewart (6-1, 237) to end the national semifinal playoff game has been brought up in draft rooms. “That’s part of the maturity aspect,” a second scout said. “He’s not the same level of professionalism right now that the other two (leading) guys are. There are some slight mental concerns and some immaturity. There’s probably a click more of a bust factor. But he’s got the most upside (compared to Alt and Fashanu). He’s a giant, but he doesn’t play like a slug. It’s going to be, ‘Are you comfortable with the kid? Do you feel you’ll be able to get the best out of him?’” Didn’t run a 40. Arms were 35 1/8, hands were 11. “Here’s a 340-pound dude that’s athletic as can be and built like a damn house and the little guy, No. 5 (Stewart), runs him over,” a third scout said. “That’s the kind of guy he is. I’ve never seen a guy just stand and watch plays as much as this guy. When he’s wired in you see some stuff where he can move, control and bury them. But 95% of the plays he just kind of gets in the way and watches. It’s so frustrating. I wasn’t crazy about the guy from there a couple years ago, Evan Neal, and he turned out to be a disappointment. He’s kind of cut from the same cloth.”
Taliese Fuaga, T, Oregon State (6-6, 324): Four-year player, two-year starter at RT. “He’s probably the next guy just because he’s so big and he’s not a big slug,” one scout said. “He’s a little bit more of a right tackle-guard than left tackle. But he is powerful. He’s a pretty easy mover for such a giant. At the Senior Bowl he looked a little bit more like a Pro Bowl inside player but the school tape is really good at tackle.” Clocked 5.13. “Played right tackle but he can play left,” a second scout said. “Dominant run and pass blocker. He destroyed (Laiatu) Latu of UCLA. I didn’t want to put him up with the other (leading) guys but the more I watched him I had to. He shows leverage, tenacity, nasty. Destroys people. Good pass-block technician. Has a great anchor.” Arms were just 33 1/8, hands were 10 1/8. “I keep trying to like him,” said a third scout. “He’s a solid right tackle only. Not really light on his feet. You need feet to control and sustain. He’s kind of a one-shot guy. If you get (the opponent) initially, you got it. But if he’s got to adjust to sustain I didn’t really see that. For me, he’s second round, but I know where he’s going (first round).”
Jordan Morgan, T, Arizona (6-5, 311): Compared by different scouts to the Vikings’ two starting tackles. “He reminded me of Christian Darrisaw,” one said in reference to Minnesota’s left tackle. “In pass pro he can mirror guys. Light on his feet. Technique-sound, positions easy. He can pull. He can run. Not a powerful guy, but he works at it. He’s my No. 2 tackle.” The. other scout thought of Brian O’Neill, the right tackle in Minnesota. “What he is, he’s a technician with nice feet,” he said. “He isn’t physical. He’s more like Paris Johnson. Excellent pass blocker, adequate run blocker. Natural left tackle. Not as strong or nasty as the other top guys. That guy from Pittsburgh (O’Neill) had no strength at all. People just bounced him around. That’s who this guy is. He has the feet.” Ran 5.04. Arms were just 32 7/8, hands were 10 7/8. “He is the most finesse of all the top guys,” said a third scout. “I don’t think he’s not tough; he’s just a finesse player. He’s really smart with high character. He can probably play all five (positions). If you got him in the second you’d be doing backflips.”
Amarius Mims, T, Georgia (6-7 ½, 340): Spectacular size, superlative arm length (36 1/8), thin resume make him one of the draft’s more intriguing prospects. “He’s a freak talent but I don’t think he started 10 games in his career,” one scout said. “He’s just a giant. You watch some of the stuff he does, it’s horrible. But it wouldn’t surprise me if someone took him in the first based on upside. And it’s not like he’s been sitting behind Joe the Mailman. He’s been playing behind guys that were getting picked high in the draft.” Rotated in 2022, making his first two starts in the playoffs. Career total of eight starts at right tackle. “When Mims played,” a second scout said, “he looked like an athlete with feet. He wasn’t very physical at all.” Clocked 5.07. His short shuttle of 4.33 ranked second among offensive linemen. “He is a project project,” said a third scout. “He is a long, long, long ways away. Not as athletic as people say. Because he looks like an athlete doesn’t mean he is actually athletic. He and Latham are the same: ‘Do you like playing?’ He’s not very aggressive. He can use his length initially to get on guys but doesn’t work to finish, his feet aren’t great, balance is off.” Largest hands (11 ¼) at the position.
Graham Barton, C-G, Duke (6-5, 313): Started five games at center in 2000 when two teammates were injured before starting at LT from 2021-’23. “I don’t think he’ll be a Pro Bowl left tackle but he can play there,” one scout said. “He can be a Pro Bowl center because of his intelligence and athletic ability. You’re getting a really good Swiss Army knife player. He’s a can’t-miss kid. His handicap is lack of length (arms were 32 7/8). He is really athletic. I don’t think he’s going to improve dramatically. That’s not a knock on him. He’s heady. He’s ready to go right now. He’s a lot like some of these linemen from Iowa that come out and are ready to go.” Didn’t run or jump at the combine. Hands were 9 3/8. “He’s got to be a center,” a second scout said. “I give him his due for being a left tackle. He’s got all the technique and all the effort but he is weak and he’s always on the ground. They either wreck him and throw him down, or he just gets stood up. But he fights, he works, he’s got enough athletic ability. No chance at tackle. For guard, I don’t think he’s strong enough. He’s got that classic center profile.”
Tyler Guyton, T, Oklahoma (6-7 ½, 322): Played sparingly at TCU from 2020-’21 before moving to Norman and making 14 starts at RT in 2022-’23. “He’s talented, but there’s some unknowns based on what you see on film,” one scout said. “The film’s not (great) but you’re talking about a 6-7, 330-pound guy with 34-inch arms and a natural athlete. His technique just isn’t very good. Definitely a finesse style. But he can be a starting left tackle. Not a bad kid. You could really hit on him if you’re comfortable with the makeup.” Clocked 5.19. His vertical jump of 34 ½ was fifth best at the position. “He and Mims are similar,” a second scout said. “Gigantic, plays young, too. Not a quick-footed athlete in pass pro. Just another project. He needs a lot of work.” Arms were 34 1/8, hands were 10 ¼.
Patrick Paul, T, Houston (6-7 ½, 331): Made 44 starts at left tackle during a five-year collegiate career. “He looks good,” said one scout. “He looks like an NBA basketball player. He’s an easy mover for such a big guy. You’re going to get pissed about his lack of discipline and technique. You’re going to get pissed because he’s not powerful. Then you have to keep reminding yourself, ‘OK, he’s 6-7, 330, 36 3/8 and he’s gonna play.’ I don’t know how you can pass a guy like this up.” Arms were 36 ¼, hands were 9 3/8. “Love the long arms but a knock-kneed guy,” a second scout said. “Just a limited athlete. Poor technique, hands are wide every snap. Wide, wide. Put your hands inside. Plays top-heavy. Not really a nimble athlete. Just a project because he’s so tall and long. Third or fourth round.” Clocked 5.14.
Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut (6-2 ½, 317): In April 2022, after Haynes had made 24 starts at RG in his first four years in Storrs, the UConn staff and coaches told scouts they weren’t recommending him as an NFL prospect. After a boffo week at the Senior Bowl and a solid showing at the combine, he’s expected to be taken in the first two rounds. “Against Michigan in 2022 they’re getting the **** kicked out of them (59-0) and you’d think the national championship was on the line the way the guy was playing late in the fourth quarter,” said one scout. “He’s going to play pretty early. If he’s your starting guard you’re really happy with him. He’s never played center in a game but I think he could do it. Bad body. If you do him off the body you won’t like him.” The Huskies were 13-48 during Haynes’ five seasons under Randy Edsall and Jim Mora Jr. “You just don’t see people just block and play to the whistle and after the whistle like this guy anymore,” said a second scout. “He’s just an old-school, tough, nasty guy. He is explosive. He can jolt guys at the line of scrimmage. He can really run and pull and adjust. In pass pro, he can slide, change directions. He holds a little bit too much, but that’s just his over-exuberance. I just love his attitude.” Clocked 5.03 with a 33-inch vertical. Arms were 33 ½, hands were small at 9.
Kiran Amegadjie, T, Yale (6-5, 323): Played just four early games in 2023 before suffering a season-ending injury. “Now they were four good games,” one scout said. “I already liked his stuff from 2022 but I thought he showed a step in development (this year). That (missing games) will hurt him in addition to Yale and being raw. But I don’t see how you pass him in the second round. He’s too big and talented. Oh, God, he can do whatever he wants. Still growing as a player. He really didn’t see himself as a professional football player until before his junior year. Of all the top guys he’s probably got the most development necessary, but he’s really talented. You get this guy in the right place with the right coach and you could really have something.” Played LT for the Bulldogs but also has worked at guard. “I don’t get it,” a second scout said. “He’s a good-looking kid for the Ivy League. It’s like he shouldn’t be there. But he wasn’t a dominant, productive player in the Ivy League. If you’re from a small school you’ve got to kick ***. He just kind of blends in.” Didn’t run or test at the combine. Arms were 36 1/8, hands were 9 5/8.
Tanor Bortolini, C-G, Wisconsin (6-4, 303): Worked out as well if not better than any offensive lineman in Indianapolis. His 40 of 4.94 tied for second best whereas his times in the two agility runs (4.28 short shuttle, 7.16 3-cone) were first. “Really good athlete,” one scout said. “Not real physical. Strength is just OK. He can hold up. He’s got some anchor. He’s just very, very smooth. He’s really good as a zone-type blocker. Second-level, downfield. Real good technician. I’ve got him in the second round.” Started 27 of 35 games, including 13 at center, 13 at guard and one at tight end. “I’m not sure he isn’t better than (Oregon’s Jackson) Powers-Johnson,” said a second scout. “But he’s got (short) arms. I think he’s probably a center only. He can probably be a pretty good center. Third round.” Arms were just 31 ½, hands were 10.
Bipo
This is damn peculiar....
- Joined
- Mar 17, 2020
- Messages
- 12,188
I like the player, OK?
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
That seems short one center if not two...
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
I wonder if he could play center at all? That build and ability to reach block like that would be perfect for center, if he can snap a ball.
Chocolate Lab
24/7/365
- Joined
- Oct 2, 2014
- Messages
- 34,498
Love the McGinn stuff as always.
Reading that, I'd want no part of Latham. This
Reminds me too much of La'el Collins. I couldn't stand that about him.
We need the guys who want to play even if their SPARQ or arm length isn't ideal.
Reading that, I'd want no part of Latham. This
Reminds me too much of La'el Collins. I couldn't stand that about him.
We need the guys who want to play even if their SPARQ or arm length isn't ideal.
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
And this is why I'm not a big fan of Justin Morgan. I love his feet but to me he is a second round pick because he isn't going to actually beat anyone. Just sort of get in their way.
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2013
- Messages
- 64,740
I don't think Latham makes it anywhere close to our pick.
- Status