It’s become clear that, despite the multitude of all-star games out there, more than just two or three can feature NFL-worthy talent and offer a resource for NFL teams to evaluate the senior class in an all-star setting.
The 2015 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, in it’s third year, features a handful of prospects who need to take advantage of the setting, especially two quarterbacks who both will look to prove they’re better than their Senior Bowl and Shrine Game counterparts in this class.
By: Optimum Scouting Staff
1. Rakeem Cato, QB, Marshall
Cato is undersized for an NFL prospect, which doesn’t bode well for his NFL future. Cato has adequate arm strength and is at his best while on the run; however his size should make it difficult for Cato to find a spot on an NFL Roster. Cato shows good awareness from within the pocket and a veteran savvy, both traits valuable at the next level. These skills, along with his ability to throw on the run and starting experience should warrant some intrigue at the next level.
2. Brandon Bridge, QB, South Alabama
Clearly still a raw passer, Bridge’s release quickness, upper-to-lower body meshing mechanics, and overall throwing motion need plenty of work at the NFL level, and teams’ may wonder if he’ll be able to adjust quickly enough to merit a draft pick. However, based on pure talent, he possess the best arm strength in the 2015 senior class (and probably any potential juniors that declare as well), and his live arm combined with his smooth athletic ability displayed as a runner and body control when off balance oozes with potential. His placement, mechanics and pocket presence need improvement, but be sure to watch his vertical throwing ability, athleticism and flexibility to evade rushers without losing velocity in the 2015 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl.
3. Chris Conley, WR, Georgia
A tall, lanky receiver option, Conley was the Bulldogs leading receiver, getting work on the outside, in the slot, and on a multitude of routes. Conley’s separation in the mid-field leaves much to be desired, but his ability to attack vertically as well as position his body in the short-area to give his quarterback a throwing lane. He should quickly become the quarterbacks’ favorite outside option.
4. Al Bond, OG, Memphis
Bond is a First-team American Athletic Conference selection who started all 12 games at right tackle. The senior right tackle plays strong, athletic football. He controls defenders at the line of scrimmage and shows above average athletic ability to get out to the second level where he shows a good ability to play in space and control linebackers. Bond has a more typical guard like frame and figures to kick inside at the next level. Bond, at this point, is a late round prospect.
5. Marcus Rush, DE, Michigan State
Rush has been one of the most productive Spartan defenders over the past few years, but his NFL position is still to be determined. As an under 260 edge player and lacking top-end lateral quickness, Rush may be better suited as a situational 3-4 outside linebacker as an energy rusher, or begin a transition to a more true linebacker spots.
6. Brock Hekking, DE, Nevada
Hekking is well known for his vibrant blonde mullet and his tenacious style of play. Brock Hekking utilizes his active motor and aggressive style of play. He still needs to show a lot more for his NFL future to become clear. Hekking needs to work on his functional strength and becoming a more developed technician. His big frame gives reason for optimism, although he might get slapped with the dreaded tweener label.
7. Leon Orr, DT, Florida
Beginning his season off as the Gators’ starter at defensive tackle, Orr was kicked off the team in mid-October by Will Muschamp, cutting his college career shorter than he would’ve liked. Orr, at 6’5 and 300 pounds, was a highly touted high school recruit and showcased NT and 5-technique potential, and should garner NFL interest if he can prove what chased him out of Florida won’t be an issue moving forward at the 2015 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl.
8. Michael Doctor, LB, Oregon State
The Oregon State leader the past two seasons, Doctor returned in 2015 from an ankle injury, and his athleticism and range allowed him to produce on the perimeter, while also consistently playing low to the ground to be effective in taking on blocks. He’ll have to overcome his sub-6’0 size for NFL teams to consider him in the draft.
9. Deshazor Everett, CB, Texas A&M
Coming into the season, Everett had the hype of a potential top 100 selection but that excitement was soon tempered. Everett is a plus-sized cornerback that excels in run support, but struggles at the catch point to locate and finish plays. With his lack of recovery speed and ball tracking skills, his only scheme fit at CB will be in a Cover 2 defense. With his tackling skills and experience wearing multiple hats in the secondary, teams will view Everett as a mid to late round safety prospect.
10. Cedric Thompson, SAF, Minnesota
A versatile defensive back, Cedric Thompson has put himself into the discussion of being draftable for a team needing a valuable backup with special teams skills. Thompson is 5’11” and 210 pounds, so he has the size needed to line up at multiple positions and still be effective.
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