In the first of weekly scouting updates, we’ll be bringing the players moving up and sliding down each week, in terms of the NFL Draft projections. While “grades” don’t change week to week, it sometimes takes just one impressive (or lackluster) performance to make a profound impression on an NFL evaluator.
With that, this past weekend, it’s clear you need to get to know West Virginia’s Kevin White, appreciate how special Amari Cooper is, and check out the differing paths Brandon Scherff and Cameron Erving have taken this season as potential first-round pass protectors.
Moving Up
Connor Halliday, QB, Washington State
The leader of the Mike Leach offense nearly pulled off the major upset against Oregon, but they couldn’t put up enough points against the Mariota-lead Ducks. Still, Connor Halliday made more than a few impressive, NFL throws, showing a commanding release, placement on short and intermediate routes, and consistency is his decision making skills. Despite their record, he’ll prove to be a quiet Day Three possible passer, if not more.
Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State (JR)
Playing in Death Valley, QB Dak Prescott really impressed with his dual-threat skill set. His live arm was on full display with multiple back shoulder fades, seam throws and post routes for scouts to look back on. He still stepped into multiple sacks and needs to be more efficient within the pocket, but certainly flashed a high ceiling with plus physical traits as a runner and thrower.
Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
Another week, another tremendous performance for Kevin White. At 6’3, 210, White gets separation and finishes catches across the route tree, and has done so now against two of the top five teams in the country. After putting up 143 yards and a touchdown against Alabama, and 216 yards and another touchdown against Maryland, White was hugely impactful in the Mountaineers near upset of Oklahoma, finishing with his fourth straight 100 yard performance. Among senior receivers, he’s in the top overall discussion.
Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama (JR)
Simply put, he was near unstoppable this past weekend. The quarterbacks may change for Cooper, from McCarron to Sims to (maybe) Jacob Coker, but it’s clear that he’s going to be a force each game, en route to a top-ten selection in the 2015 NFL Draft, if he declares.
Deandre Smelter, WR, Georgia Tech
For a team that hasn’t had a great passing offense for the past eight years (even when Calvin Johnson was there), it’s amazing that they had two first rounders come through the program, with Deandre Smelter the next receiver with NFL upside despite the offense around him. He’s not nearly of the Calvin Johnson/Demaryius Thomas talent-level, but his 6’3 size, smoothness as a vertical threat and production this past weekend (5 catches, 101 yards and a touchdown) is certainly worth keeping an eye on this season, as the Yellow Jackets are 4-0.
Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa
Despite not having an ideal kick slide nor great length, Brandon Scherff has performed at a very high level all season, including a dominating as a run blocker in the team’s game against Pittsburgh. As a pass blocker, he seemingly does enough to protect (at the college level, mind you), but really controls his block initially and down the field consistently and with great force. He’s playing like the first-round pick he’s been projected at all season.
Preston Smith, DE, Mississippi State
Listed at 6’6, 267 lbs, Preston Smith showcases the ability to set the edge, defeat blocks with his developed hand usage and generate pressure from multiple alignments. He demonstrated his pass rush repertoire as an interior pass rusher, dominating LSU’s center with a variety of rip and swim moves. Although he entered the season with late round grades from scouts, he looks far improved and at least worth a top 100 selection.
Sliding Down
Devin Gardner, QB/WR, Michigan
Based on his performance in the two challenging games the Wolverines this season, the projection of Gardner as a receiver may begin to get more prevalent. While part of his issues in the Notre Dame shutout were on the offensive line play, those were just part of the cause of Gardner’s struggles against Utah. Frustrating decisions, late timing on throws and poor placement on seemingly easy throws severely limited the team’s offense. If he’s officially benched for Shane Morris, Gardner’s projection will immediately switch to receiver, where he still may be draftable.
Cameron Erving, OT, Florida State
After giving up two Vic Beasley sacks in the team’s narrow overtime win against Clemson, Erving showed some of the limitations as an edge protector in the overtime win. He’s a bit stiff as he kick slides, which was an issue in the struggles here. Despite his length and success as a run blocker, he’s proved to be no lock to be a first rounder.
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