NFL teams will find talent, wherever it is. But with the increase talent entering the non-FBS schools and the increased value in finding those small schoolers, NFL teams are hungry for added avenues to locate and consider signing under-the-radar prospects.
That’s where the 2015 Dream Bowl comes in. In its third year hosting in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the Dream Bowl has become the premier small school-focused all-star game, and the game will be played on Monday, January 18th.
With catering to both CFL and NFL teams, the Dream Bowl is an event focused on giving college seniors an ideal and celebrated send-off to their college careers, while also giving them the coaching, instruction and opportunity to potentially start their professional careers.
As the official scouting service for the Dream Bowl, Optimum Scouting has worked with the staff and game founder Neil Malvone to continue to work the good-faith and support for the game from past players and professional evaluators into increased professional support and a game that features the best small-school seniors in the country.
The NFL draft process is a difficult journey, especially for small-school players. They’re behind the 8-ball in terms of national exposure and consistent evaluations in-season from NFL teams. These small schoolers need to utilize events such as pro days and all-star games to separate themselves.
The Dream Bowl is an all-star game provides the tools, from media coverage to professional scouting reports to NFL team interest, as well as the celebration process that small schoolers deserve.
From an NFL perspective, here are the top five prospects NFL teams in attendance will be watching:
1. Andrew Manley, QB, Eastern Illinois
After starting his career at New Mexico State, Manley opted to transfer to Eastern Illinois, where he sat behind eventual second-round pick Jimmy Garoppolo in 2014. With plus size, arm talent and balance in the pocket, Manley has been on NFL radars since his sophomore year, and is the feature attraction for NFL evaluators.
2. Brandon Lucas, RB, West Georgia
The undersized, speedy scatback has plus-quickness on the interior, and uses his low center of gravity to evade initial tacklers and make plays upfield. His smaller stature and playing at a small school won’t be easy to overcome, but his big play ability certainly intrigues.
3. Shaquille Lewis, CB, Louisiana College
After a high-level Division II career, (six interceptions in 2014), the 6’1 cornerback has impressive vertical ability (36+ vertical jump) and hits every other measurable NFL teams covet. His finishing ability at the catch-point and plus-athleticism is where he wins.
4. Terry Ross, LB, Winston-Salem State
Despite being under the ideal 6’0 limit, Ross has ample wingspan to make-up for it, and was able to flash as a coverage and rush linebacker in college. With plus-speed on the field and in testing, Ross may have interest to pro teams as a linebacker or strong safety.
5. Larry Hearne, CB, Winston-Salem State
Hearne doesn’t offer top-end speed or size, but his athleticism and ability to play away from his frame is what provides the most intrigue for pro teams. He tests well as an athlete, meeting those thresholds, and could fit as an outside cornerback in nickel and dime sets for pro teams.
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