2026 NFL Draft Thread
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McGinn Draft Series: Interior OL
One of nine siblings, he comes from an academic-oriented family. His parents finally relented and let him start playing football in the 10th grade. “He’s a Pro Bowl guard,” another scout said. “He reminds me of Tyler Booker from Alabama last year. They’re very similar. Big mauler kind of guy, good enough athlete, better in the run game than the pass. Whatever value you put on a guard, he’s going to start and be a really good player and be your guy.” Started 32 of 44 games at LG. “He arguably could be the best lineman in the draft,” said a third scout. “He’s a big-bodied guy who stayed at Penn State. Covers people up. Solid player.” Arms were 32 ¾ inches, hands were 10 ½ inches. “He’s a mauler in the run game but he’s a limited athlete,” said a fourth scout. “When he gets out and pulls he’s heavy-legged. I don’t see it. I think he’s overrated. What does he do best? Well, he’s powerful. He’s a pretty good run blocker, but he’s not a great pass protector. He is against power, but he lacks quickness. He lumbers in space a little bit. Now if he’s running in a straight line and in (space) he’s gonna maul you. I just think he lacks top athletic ability.” Three-star recruit from Graham, Wash. Loves to cook.
2. CHASE BISONTIS, Texas A&M (6-5, 317, 5.02, 2): Started at RT as a true freshman in 2023 before moving to LG in 2024-’25. “He’s very close to Ioane,” said one scout. “He’s a better athlete than Ioane. Moves well. Technique sound. Guys gives good effort. Occasionally he’ll play top-heavy and get snatched down. Good in pass pro. He can move his feet. Good punch. Gets out in space. Bottom of the first for me.” Short arms (31 ¼), and hands were 9 ¾. “He’s a starter,” said a second scout. “I had a mental note on him. That was a little bit of a concern.” Four-star recruit from Ramsey, N.J. “He’s really good,” a third scout said. “He’s powerful. I think he’s a rookie starter. Probably second round. He could be the best guard. He’s big, nasty.”
3. EMMANUEL PREGNON, Oregon (6-4, 315, 5.23, 2-3): Made 51 starts for three schools, including 39 at LG and 12 at RG. “He’s been around a long time,” said one scout. “He’s got good size and quick enough feet. He’s tough to get around, and he’s powerful. For a guy that played this long – he’s got 3,200 snaps on college – I thought I’d see a guy who’s more polished. He could sneak into the third.” Opted out of 2020 at Wyoming because of the pandemic, redshirted in 2021 and started in 2022 before moving to USC, where he started at LG in 2023-’24. Played last year for the Ducks. “More of a gap-scheme guy,” said a second scout. “No position flex, strictly a guard only. If Tate Ratledge can start for the Lions, he can start for somebody … and Ratledge went in the second.” Arms were 33 5/8, hands were a position-leading 11. His 35-inch vertical jump led the guards, too. “He’s steady eddie,” said a third scout. “Solid. Little bit older so you can see he really knows how to play. Nothing dynamic, but he’s going to be a solid, good player. He’ll go in the second.” No-star recruit as a two-way lineman from Denver. “He’s like Ed Ingram a little bit that the Vikings took (second round, 2022) and now he’s at Houston,” said a fourth scout. “He’s a good enough athlete but there’s something missing. He’s a little bit soft. He’s on the ground a little bit. You wish he was a little more of a competitive player with better effort. He’ll fall off a run block sometimes. He’s not real nasty. But he’s a pretty good pass protector. Good wide base. Good hands. At the end of the day you say, ‘OK, this guy’s probably a low-level starter.’”
4. JALEN FARMER, Kentucky (6-5, 316, 4.93, 2-3): Backed up for two years at Florida before starting 24 games for the Wildcats. “Real good player,” one scout said. “He’s got all the traits of a starting guard. Real good bender, long arms (34 ¼). He can maul you. Good pass protector. He could be second or third round. He’s massive. Looks the part. Kind of versatile, too. Got pretty good feet. He was really impressive at the Senior Bowl.” Ran by far the fastest 40 among the guards. Hands were small (9 ¼). His 37 reps on the bench press were five more than any other offensive lineman. “Came from Florida, never really did it there,” said a second scout. “They had a couple bad linemen (starting) and that raised alarms for me. He’s in the fifth-sixth round area. It’s the demeanor, the attitude. I don’t think people are all that fired up about him. He thinks he’s better than he is.” Academic All-SEC twice. “Really talented but there’s some character concerns,” said a third scout. “He’d be more of a second-rounder if the character was good.” From Covington, Ga. “He’s a road-grader,” a fourth scout said. “He’s talented. He’s got some things personality-wise and some other stuff. The talent is in there. There’s some maturity things that he’s gonna have to figure out.”
5. GENNINGS DUNKER, Iowa (6-5, 319, 5.19, 2-3): Redshirted in 2021, started one game at RG in 2022 and started 38 games at RT in 2023-’25. “Some people see him as an inside player,” said one scout. “I think he could play right tackle. I don’t think he’s a first-rounder, by any means. He’s probably a two or a three.” Arms were 33 ½, hands were 10. “He’s big enough for tackle and his arms are long enough and then some,” said a second scout. “Right tackle is his position but he might be a better guard. His hands get a little outside the framework in pass pro. He can stop the bull. Adequate depth vs. the edge. Will catch some and give up some ground. He’s an aggressive run blocker, which I like. He’ll move people out. I like the dude. I’d let him fail first at tackle. You know those Iowa guys are well-schooled. They’re a clinic.” Part of a unit that won the Joe Moore Award as college football top offensive line in 2025. “He was a right tackle but he’s stiff on making adjustments,” said a third scout. “But inside, boy, when he’s in the run game, boy, he gets on guys and mauls ‘em. He’s definitely an inside player. You can get by with him for a time out on the edge but he’s not athletic enough. He can pass set but he can’t redirect to the inside move. He doesn’t redirect and adjust really well in space. But he’s what you want in the run game. He’s gonna get on guys and, shoot, create holes and space and all that stuff. He’s better gap scheme.” Three-time honors student at Iowa. Wrestled in high school. From Lena, Ill. “I like the size and the power but he’s so inconsistent,” a fourth scout said. “He’s a flashy guy. Looks like a fish out of water against the pass rush. Lacks the adjust part of it and the anticipation. When I was around him I got Cody Mauch vibes, the kid that came out of North Dakota State a few years ago (second round, Bucs, 2023). Maybe that’s because of his looks. He’s got the long hair and the mustache. Ugliest looking guy.” His pre-game routine is said to be a 10,000-calorie pig out.
6. BEAU STEPHENS, Iowa (6-5 ½, 314, 5.35, 2-3): Redshirted in 2021 and, when healthy, started the next four seasons at both guards. “He’s got a little center in him, too,” one scout said. “He just feels like one of those Iowa guys that are tough and reliable. You’re going to want longer-armed guys. You’re going to want maybe a little more athlete. But at the end of the day this guy tends to block his dude.” Arms were 31 1/8, the shortest of the top 20 guards. Hands were just 9 ¼. “He looks like an NFL player,” a second scout said. “Probably more of a backup in the end but he’ll be drafted third day. Sort of a gap-scheme guard. They’re really trying to sell him there now. He did have a good final year and sort of turned things around. Third round would be about the highest.” Ran the slowest 40 of the top 10 guards. “He grew on me,” a third scout said. “He was (graded) a practice-squad guy by the combine (in spring 2025). When I was watching the center (Logan Jones) ands the right tackle (Dunker) this guy was better than both of them. He’s probably going third round. Absolutely he’s a starter.” Won the Hayden Fry Award twice for exemplary leadership and dedication on and off the field. “Aggressive in-line run blocker with leg drive,” a fourth scout said. “Good stick-and-stay on linebackers. Has some nasty and torque to bury defenders. Little slow getting to linebackers. Gets a little out of control on kick-out blocks.” Played basketball and wrestled as a prep in Blue Springs, Mo.
7. KEYLAN RUTLEDGE, Georgia Tech (6-3 ½, 317, 5.05, 3-4): Started 17 of 22 games at Middle Tennessee State from 2022-’23 before starting 26 games at RG for the Ramblin’ Wreck. “He’s a guy that knows how to play,” said one scout. “Not the most athletically talented. Not that he’s terribly deficient, either. Average athlete, but he makes up for it. He’s got that DNA that good linemen have. Tough, he’s gritty, he’s strong, he understands. If you combined him and Farmer you’d have a first-rounder. He doesn’t have the talent and the body that guy does and won’t get drafted as high probably, but something tells me he’s going to be a success.” Almost had his foot amputated in a car crash in December 2023. Missed all of spring practice but was back for the ’24 season. “Brent Key (GTU coach), an O-line guy, really touts him as somebody with a big future,” said a second scout. “I think people are buying into that.” Two-time all-state basketball player from Royston, Ga., surpassing 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds. State champion in the shot put (53-4). Three-star recruit. “I think he’s a late-round guy,” said a third scout. “He’s got a chance because you keep nine or 10 linemen. He’s little. Not a real big, thick guy. Plays a little high. He’s got too many limitations. He just doesn’t have the wide hips. It’s funny how guys at 316 can look small but there’s so many guys that are 330, 340.” His short shuttle of 4.45 led the guards. Arms were 33 ¼, hands were 10.
8. LOGAN TAYLOR, Boston College (6-6 ½, 315, 5.19, 4-5): Redshirted at Virginia in 2021 and started 10 games at tackle in ’22. Moved to BC, where his 36 starts broke down to 17 at LT, 10 at LG, eight at RG and one at RT. “He has played every position except center and there’s no reason he couldn’t play center,” one scout said. “He’s a good enough athlete but he will win with strength, smarts and technique. His left-tackle stuff wasn’t bad. This guy’s a football player.” From Lunenburg, in Nova Scotia. Played his final two seasons in high school at Alexandria, Va. “He’ll be a fifth-sixth round pick, at best,” a second scout said. “He’s got some height and size. He’s a guard, maybe a tackle in a pinch. Good personality. (BC’s Jude) Bowry had more acclaim during the season and he sort of slipped. But he’s no great prospect.” Arms were 33 7/8, hands were 10 ½. Four-star recruit.
One scout said: “Steady and smart. He’s a good athlete but doesn’t have good foot quickness, which puts him in the guard-tough guy category.”
Armaj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M (6-5 ½, 319, 5.29)
One scout said: “I do think he’s (slightly) better than Trost. He’s got length (34 3/8 arms). He’s how you build ‘em. He had some issues earlier in his career. He plays hard. Technically, he needs some work. Little bit of a mauler-brawler type. The talent’s there. He has more talent than Trost. I don’t see Trost going past the fifth and I could see him in the fourth. Somebody’s going to take the talent. I think he’ll go higher than Trost.”
Billy Schrauth, Notre Dame (6-4 ½, 310, no 40)
One scout said: “He’s not overly impressive with size and athletic ability. He just kind of gets the job done. One of those guys, like instinctive and tough. He’s definitely a backup to start his career and maybe down the road he turns into a starter. He’s strong, strong, strong. Third round would be the highest.”
Anez Cooper, Miami (6-6, 338, 5.61)
One scout said: “He was 400 pounds at one point. They love the kid. He’s tough. He is a gap-scheme guard all the way. He’s not a wide-zone, run-off-the-ball type.”
Febechi Nwaiwu, Oklahoma (6-4, 317, 5.35)
One scout said: “He’s got a shot. Really smart, big, quick and has really long arms (34 ½). He started the last three games of the year at center, which is where he might end up. Just one of those guys that’s smart enough, big enough, tough enough. Not an elite athlete, but you don’t really need those guys in the trenches. He’ll be an early Day 3 pick as a potential swing interior guy, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he started games during his career.”
GUARDS
1. VEGA IOANE, Penn State (6-4, 323, no 40, 1): Compared by one scout to the Colts’ Quenton Nelson, the No. 6 choice in 2018. “I don’t think he’s quite that dominant but probably more athletic,” one scout said. “Nelson was a better technician. Ioane is a freak talent for a big, thick man. Guards historically don’t go that high but if you value a starting guard and you’re in the middle of the first you jump all over this guy.”One of nine siblings, he comes from an academic-oriented family. His parents finally relented and let him start playing football in the 10th grade. “He’s a Pro Bowl guard,” another scout said. “He reminds me of Tyler Booker from Alabama last year. They’re very similar. Big mauler kind of guy, good enough athlete, better in the run game than the pass. Whatever value you put on a guard, he’s going to start and be a really good player and be your guy.” Started 32 of 44 games at LG. “He arguably could be the best lineman in the draft,” said a third scout. “He’s a big-bodied guy who stayed at Penn State. Covers people up. Solid player.” Arms were 32 ¾ inches, hands were 10 ½ inches. “He’s a mauler in the run game but he’s a limited athlete,” said a fourth scout. “When he gets out and pulls he’s heavy-legged. I don’t see it. I think he’s overrated. What does he do best? Well, he’s powerful. He’s a pretty good run blocker, but he’s not a great pass protector. He is against power, but he lacks quickness. He lumbers in space a little bit. Now if he’s running in a straight line and in (space) he’s gonna maul you. I just think he lacks top athletic ability.” Three-star recruit from Graham, Wash. Loves to cook.
2. CHASE BISONTIS, Texas A&M (6-5, 317, 5.02, 2): Started at RT as a true freshman in 2023 before moving to LG in 2024-’25. “He’s very close to Ioane,” said one scout. “He’s a better athlete than Ioane. Moves well. Technique sound. Guys gives good effort. Occasionally he’ll play top-heavy and get snatched down. Good in pass pro. He can move his feet. Good punch. Gets out in space. Bottom of the first for me.” Short arms (31 ¼), and hands were 9 ¾. “He’s a starter,” said a second scout. “I had a mental note on him. That was a little bit of a concern.” Four-star recruit from Ramsey, N.J. “He’s really good,” a third scout said. “He’s powerful. I think he’s a rookie starter. Probably second round. He could be the best guard. He’s big, nasty.”
3. EMMANUEL PREGNON, Oregon (6-4, 315, 5.23, 2-3): Made 51 starts for three schools, including 39 at LG and 12 at RG. “He’s been around a long time,” said one scout. “He’s got good size and quick enough feet. He’s tough to get around, and he’s powerful. For a guy that played this long – he’s got 3,200 snaps on college – I thought I’d see a guy who’s more polished. He could sneak into the third.” Opted out of 2020 at Wyoming because of the pandemic, redshirted in 2021 and started in 2022 before moving to USC, where he started at LG in 2023-’24. Played last year for the Ducks. “More of a gap-scheme guy,” said a second scout. “No position flex, strictly a guard only. If Tate Ratledge can start for the Lions, he can start for somebody … and Ratledge went in the second.” Arms were 33 5/8, hands were a position-leading 11. His 35-inch vertical jump led the guards, too. “He’s steady eddie,” said a third scout. “Solid. Little bit older so you can see he really knows how to play. Nothing dynamic, but he’s going to be a solid, good player. He’ll go in the second.” No-star recruit as a two-way lineman from Denver. “He’s like Ed Ingram a little bit that the Vikings took (second round, 2022) and now he’s at Houston,” said a fourth scout. “He’s a good enough athlete but there’s something missing. He’s a little bit soft. He’s on the ground a little bit. You wish he was a little more of a competitive player with better effort. He’ll fall off a run block sometimes. He’s not real nasty. But he’s a pretty good pass protector. Good wide base. Good hands. At the end of the day you say, ‘OK, this guy’s probably a low-level starter.’”
4. JALEN FARMER, Kentucky (6-5, 316, 4.93, 2-3): Backed up for two years at Florida before starting 24 games for the Wildcats. “Real good player,” one scout said. “He’s got all the traits of a starting guard. Real good bender, long arms (34 ¼). He can maul you. Good pass protector. He could be second or third round. He’s massive. Looks the part. Kind of versatile, too. Got pretty good feet. He was really impressive at the Senior Bowl.” Ran by far the fastest 40 among the guards. Hands were small (9 ¼). His 37 reps on the bench press were five more than any other offensive lineman. “Came from Florida, never really did it there,” said a second scout. “They had a couple bad linemen (starting) and that raised alarms for me. He’s in the fifth-sixth round area. It’s the demeanor, the attitude. I don’t think people are all that fired up about him. He thinks he’s better than he is.” Academic All-SEC twice. “Really talented but there’s some character concerns,” said a third scout. “He’d be more of a second-rounder if the character was good.” From Covington, Ga. “He’s a road-grader,” a fourth scout said. “He’s talented. He’s got some things personality-wise and some other stuff. The talent is in there. There’s some maturity things that he’s gonna have to figure out.”
5. GENNINGS DUNKER, Iowa (6-5, 319, 5.19, 2-3): Redshirted in 2021, started one game at RG in 2022 and started 38 games at RT in 2023-’25. “Some people see him as an inside player,” said one scout. “I think he could play right tackle. I don’t think he’s a first-rounder, by any means. He’s probably a two or a three.” Arms were 33 ½, hands were 10. “He’s big enough for tackle and his arms are long enough and then some,” said a second scout. “Right tackle is his position but he might be a better guard. His hands get a little outside the framework in pass pro. He can stop the bull. Adequate depth vs. the edge. Will catch some and give up some ground. He’s an aggressive run blocker, which I like. He’ll move people out. I like the dude. I’d let him fail first at tackle. You know those Iowa guys are well-schooled. They’re a clinic.” Part of a unit that won the Joe Moore Award as college football top offensive line in 2025. “He was a right tackle but he’s stiff on making adjustments,” said a third scout. “But inside, boy, when he’s in the run game, boy, he gets on guys and mauls ‘em. He’s definitely an inside player. You can get by with him for a time out on the edge but he’s not athletic enough. He can pass set but he can’t redirect to the inside move. He doesn’t redirect and adjust really well in space. But he’s what you want in the run game. He’s gonna get on guys and, shoot, create holes and space and all that stuff. He’s better gap scheme.” Three-time honors student at Iowa. Wrestled in high school. From Lena, Ill. “I like the size and the power but he’s so inconsistent,” a fourth scout said. “He’s a flashy guy. Looks like a fish out of water against the pass rush. Lacks the adjust part of it and the anticipation. When I was around him I got Cody Mauch vibes, the kid that came out of North Dakota State a few years ago (second round, Bucs, 2023). Maybe that’s because of his looks. He’s got the long hair and the mustache. Ugliest looking guy.” His pre-game routine is said to be a 10,000-calorie pig out.
6. BEAU STEPHENS, Iowa (6-5 ½, 314, 5.35, 2-3): Redshirted in 2021 and, when healthy, started the next four seasons at both guards. “He’s got a little center in him, too,” one scout said. “He just feels like one of those Iowa guys that are tough and reliable. You’re going to want longer-armed guys. You’re going to want maybe a little more athlete. But at the end of the day this guy tends to block his dude.” Arms were 31 1/8, the shortest of the top 20 guards. Hands were just 9 ¼. “He looks like an NFL player,” a second scout said. “Probably more of a backup in the end but he’ll be drafted third day. Sort of a gap-scheme guard. They’re really trying to sell him there now. He did have a good final year and sort of turned things around. Third round would be about the highest.” Ran the slowest 40 of the top 10 guards. “He grew on me,” a third scout said. “He was (graded) a practice-squad guy by the combine (in spring 2025). When I was watching the center (Logan Jones) ands the right tackle (Dunker) this guy was better than both of them. He’s probably going third round. Absolutely he’s a starter.” Won the Hayden Fry Award twice for exemplary leadership and dedication on and off the field. “Aggressive in-line run blocker with leg drive,” a fourth scout said. “Good stick-and-stay on linebackers. Has some nasty and torque to bury defenders. Little slow getting to linebackers. Gets a little out of control on kick-out blocks.” Played basketball and wrestled as a prep in Blue Springs, Mo.
7. KEYLAN RUTLEDGE, Georgia Tech (6-3 ½, 317, 5.05, 3-4): Started 17 of 22 games at Middle Tennessee State from 2022-’23 before starting 26 games at RG for the Ramblin’ Wreck. “He’s a guy that knows how to play,” said one scout. “Not the most athletically talented. Not that he’s terribly deficient, either. Average athlete, but he makes up for it. He’s got that DNA that good linemen have. Tough, he’s gritty, he’s strong, he understands. If you combined him and Farmer you’d have a first-rounder. He doesn’t have the talent and the body that guy does and won’t get drafted as high probably, but something tells me he’s going to be a success.” Almost had his foot amputated in a car crash in December 2023. Missed all of spring practice but was back for the ’24 season. “Brent Key (GTU coach), an O-line guy, really touts him as somebody with a big future,” said a second scout. “I think people are buying into that.” Two-time all-state basketball player from Royston, Ga., surpassing 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds. State champion in the shot put (53-4). Three-star recruit. “I think he’s a late-round guy,” said a third scout. “He’s got a chance because you keep nine or 10 linemen. He’s little. Not a real big, thick guy. Plays a little high. He’s got too many limitations. He just doesn’t have the wide hips. It’s funny how guys at 316 can look small but there’s so many guys that are 330, 340.” His short shuttle of 4.45 led the guards. Arms were 33 ¼, hands were 10.
8. LOGAN TAYLOR, Boston College (6-6 ½, 315, 5.19, 4-5): Redshirted at Virginia in 2021 and started 10 games at tackle in ’22. Moved to BC, where his 36 starts broke down to 17 at LT, 10 at LG, eight at RG and one at RT. “He has played every position except center and there’s no reason he couldn’t play center,” one scout said. “He’s a good enough athlete but he will win with strength, smarts and technique. His left-tackle stuff wasn’t bad. This guy’s a football player.” From Lunenburg, in Nova Scotia. Played his final two seasons in high school at Alexandria, Va. “He’ll be a fifth-sixth round pick, at best,” a second scout said. “He’s got some height and size. He’s a guard, maybe a tackle in a pinch. Good personality. (BC’s Jude) Bowry had more acclaim during the season and he sort of slipped. But he’s no great prospect.” Arms were 33 7/8, hands were 10 ½. Four-star recruit.
THE NEXT FIVE
Keagen Trost, Missouri (6-4 ½, 312, no 40)One scout said: “Steady and smart. He’s a good athlete but doesn’t have good foot quickness, which puts him in the guard-tough guy category.”
Armaj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M (6-5 ½, 319, 5.29)
One scout said: “I do think he’s (slightly) better than Trost. He’s got length (34 3/8 arms). He’s how you build ‘em. He had some issues earlier in his career. He plays hard. Technically, he needs some work. Little bit of a mauler-brawler type. The talent’s there. He has more talent than Trost. I don’t see Trost going past the fifth and I could see him in the fourth. Somebody’s going to take the talent. I think he’ll go higher than Trost.”
Billy Schrauth, Notre Dame (6-4 ½, 310, no 40)
One scout said: “He’s not overly impressive with size and athletic ability. He just kind of gets the job done. One of those guys, like instinctive and tough. He’s definitely a backup to start his career and maybe down the road he turns into a starter. He’s strong, strong, strong. Third round would be the highest.”
Anez Cooper, Miami (6-6, 338, 5.61)
One scout said: “He was 400 pounds at one point. They love the kid. He’s tough. He is a gap-scheme guard all the way. He’s not a wide-zone, run-off-the-ball type.”
Febechi Nwaiwu, Oklahoma (6-4, 317, 5.35)
One scout said: “He’s got a shot. Really smart, big, quick and has really long arms (34 ½). He started the last three games of the year at center, which is where he might end up. Just one of those guys that’s smart enough, big enough, tough enough. Not an elite athlete, but you don’t really need those guys in the trenches. He’ll be an early Day 3 pick as a potential swing interior guy, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he started games during his career.”
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McGinn Draft Series: Interior OL
2. CONNOR LEW, Auburn (6-3 ½, 309, no 40, 3-4): Third-year junior came out a year early despite the fact he suffered a torn ACL in mid-October and missed the last seven games. “I’m sure he’ll go back to the re-check (in Indianapolis),” one scout said. “I don’t know where that puts him if he’s got to start the year on PUP (physically unable to perform list). Does that drop him a round, or half a round, or what? I really liked him a lot. If healthy, I thought Lew was the best (center).” Two-year starter. Also beset by a sprained MCL in early 2025. “He could go third round,” another scout said. “He’s good. Athletic, quick. Really good in the run game. Big and strong.” Posted a 4.0 grade-point average in high school. Lettered in wrestling. “I thought he was a solid second-rounder and a starting center,” said a third scout. Paced the centers on the bench press with 31 reps. Arms were 32 3/8, hands were just 9. From Kennesaw, Ga.
3. SAM HECHT, Kansas State (6-4, 303, 5.16, 4): Walked on in 2021 and redshirted. Backed up in 2022-’23 before starting 25 games in 2024-’25. “He’s got to go to a zone team because he’s a down-block, double-team, duo type of guy,” said one scout. “He’s been underweight. He weighs 300, and that’s probably a stretch sometimes to stay at 300. Those Iowa centers who were too small and played for 10 years … that’s kind of what Sam is. Really a good athlete. Stays after it. He’s gonna get bulled by pass rushers. Domonique Orange of Iowa State just ran over him a couple times although he did (play) better against him this year. Mid-round pick. He may have to wait a year to gain some weight. I like Sam as a player but he’s got to be in the right system. He needs a zone team, a scoop team, outside zone, inside zone, that kind of team.” Arms were 31 5/8, hands were 9 7/8. Just 20 reps on the bench. “Love that kid,” a second scout said. “The size does show up but he’s a good football player. I could see him in the right scenario, a zone scheme, being a low-level starter. He can get out on pulls. He can move. He’s just small and 32-inch arms. Garrett Bradbury is very similar. The kid’s character is top-shelf.” Won many academic honors, and was a semifinalist for the academic Heisman. “You know what?” said a third scout. “He’ll start as a rookie, probably. He can execute cut-off blocks. He’s tough. He neutralizes guys. He’s one of those guys who tries to finish. He’s probably second round if you need a center. He’s quick. He can redirect. He’s aggressive. He’s a good one.” From Shawnee, Kan.
4. JAKE SLAUGHTER, Florida (6-5, 304, 5.14, 4-5): Joined Bill Carr (1966) and Maurkice Pouncey (2009) as the three Gators centers to be named AP first-team All-America. “He’s the player that Florida speaks the most glowingly of,” said one scout. Backed up in 2021-’22 before making 33 starts in 2023-’25. “He’ll end up being a starter,” a second scout said. “Maybe fourth round. When you look at all these centers in the league they’re mid-to-late (picks). He’s like that. He’s smart and he’s aggressive. He can pass protect. Good enough athlete. He’s a bender.” Ranked No. 21 in the Gators’ 23-man recruiting class in 2021. “He’ll be good,” said another scout. “He just feels like one of those steady eddie guys. He’s a good enough athlete. He can bend. He can stay in front. He’s smart and has played a ton of football.” Arms were 32 3/8, hands were 10. “He’s one of those guys who struggled at times getting his weight up,” a third scout said. “But I think he’s been able to figure that out. He’s one of those guys that when he’s done playing in the league he’ll be like 220 in like a month. It’ll melt off him. He’s really a center only.” Four-time All-SEC academic honoree. From Sparr, Fla.
5. TREY ZUHN, Texas A&M (6-6 ½, 312, 5.06, 4-5): Started 48 games at LT in 2022-’25 and two games last year at center. “He’s a tackle but I feel he’s going to be a poor man’s Graham Barton,” one scout said. “Somebody’s going to say, ‘I’ll move you to center.’” Arm length (32 ½) would be the handicap outside. Hands were 10. “He played a lot of football at left tackle but with a little bit shorter arms he’s not ideal out there,” a second scout said. “So I’m kicking him inside. They talk about him in high regard and who he is. I could see him being somewhat of a developmental starter that could play early at guard and then kick over once he gets comfortable. I like him inside. A 6-6 ½-inch center is tall, but I think he bends well enough.” Four-star recruit from Fort Collins, Colo. “He doesn’t look like a natural left tackle but he held his own,” a third scout said. “He’ll go because he’s versatile. That gives him a lot of worth. He’s not great but he’s versatile and solid. That’s kind of what you’re dealing with – guys that can make your team and help you out.”
One scout said: “I think he’s a center first but can compete at guard. He’s got size and length (32 ½ arms). Got a lot of starting experience. You can see he leads the group upfront. He’s stout, but I don’t know how powerful he is in the run game. I don’t think the center-pull stuff is his game. He’s more gonna be firm, he’ll snap the ball and he’s gonna lead the troops. You’re not going to run down the cylinder very much because of his ability to anchor.”
Pat Coogan, Indiana (6-5 ½, 311, no 40)
One scout said: “I gave him a fourth-fifth grade because he has too many intangibles. He’s gonna make a ballclub. He’s gonna be an eight-year veteran. He’s got adequate everything as far as speed, strength and athletic ability. He’s a position mauler. He doesn’t do anything bad and he’s a mauler. I like those guys. Stout in pass pro. He can handle the nose guard. My report read the same way last year (before he left Notre Dame).”
Brian Parker, Duke (6-5, 309, 5.16)
One scout said: “Played right tackle for three years and didn’t look out of place there. Competitive kid, really tough. I was a little higher on him (as a center) before I saw him snap this spring. He’s not Graham Barton by any means. He’s smart and reliable.”
James Brockermeyer, Miami (6-3, 298, 5.31)
One scout said: “He’s smart as hell. His dad (Blake, NFL left tackle, 1995-’03, 103 starts) played. He’s little. Doesn’t look the part. He’s not for everybody. He’s undersized, but he doesn’t play small. He can take big guys one-on-one, bigger nose tackles, and block ‘em. He looks little. Nothing wrong with that, but guys like that usually kind of fall in (later) in the draft.”
Parker Brailsford, Alabama (6-2, 289, 5.00)
One scout said: “He’s talented but he’s so small. With all respect, he started at two major school (Washington, Alabama). But he’s a tiny guy. He makes Mark Stepnoski look like a giant. He was a great player, but he was small. I don’t think this guy is that.”
CENTERS
1. LOGAN JONES, Iowa (6-3, 300, 4.91, 2-3): Will be 25 in October after spending six years at Iowa, redshirting in 2020 and missing almost all of ’21 with a knee injury. “He’s far and away the best center,” one scout said. “Third round.” Was a defensive tackle before moving to offense in spring 2022 after Tyler Linderbaum was off to the NFL. “He’s not Linderbaum,” said another scout. “He’s more like Luke Wattenberg who came out of Washington and who plays in the league (Denver). He’s not going to be the best ever but he’s got strong hands and he’s smart. His makeup is awesome. He’s got good enough size and power to be a starter. Typical Iowa guy.” Started 50 games at center over four years. Paced the centers in the 40, short shuttle (4.45) and 3-cone (7.35). “Little bit of a poor man’s Linderbaum,” a third scout said. “He should find his way onto the field just because of who he is. The athlete, the hand strength. You want bigger and all that, but in the San Francisco (zone) scheme I could see him excelling.” Short arms (30 ¾), hands were 9 ½. “He’s the second-best center (behind Connor Lew) and probably a starter,” a fourth scout said. “Now he’s no Tyler Linderbaum. Sort of made the same way, just not as good of a player.” Earned four letters in track and three in basketball as a prep in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Wanted to attend nearby Nebraska but, according to Jones, “They said I was too small to play there.” Won the state shot put and discus as a junior.2. CONNOR LEW, Auburn (6-3 ½, 309, no 40, 3-4): Third-year junior came out a year early despite the fact he suffered a torn ACL in mid-October and missed the last seven games. “I’m sure he’ll go back to the re-check (in Indianapolis),” one scout said. “I don’t know where that puts him if he’s got to start the year on PUP (physically unable to perform list). Does that drop him a round, or half a round, or what? I really liked him a lot. If healthy, I thought Lew was the best (center).” Two-year starter. Also beset by a sprained MCL in early 2025. “He could go third round,” another scout said. “He’s good. Athletic, quick. Really good in the run game. Big and strong.” Posted a 4.0 grade-point average in high school. Lettered in wrestling. “I thought he was a solid second-rounder and a starting center,” said a third scout. Paced the centers on the bench press with 31 reps. Arms were 32 3/8, hands were just 9. From Kennesaw, Ga.
3. SAM HECHT, Kansas State (6-4, 303, 5.16, 4): Walked on in 2021 and redshirted. Backed up in 2022-’23 before starting 25 games in 2024-’25. “He’s got to go to a zone team because he’s a down-block, double-team, duo type of guy,” said one scout. “He’s been underweight. He weighs 300, and that’s probably a stretch sometimes to stay at 300. Those Iowa centers who were too small and played for 10 years … that’s kind of what Sam is. Really a good athlete. Stays after it. He’s gonna get bulled by pass rushers. Domonique Orange of Iowa State just ran over him a couple times although he did (play) better against him this year. Mid-round pick. He may have to wait a year to gain some weight. I like Sam as a player but he’s got to be in the right system. He needs a zone team, a scoop team, outside zone, inside zone, that kind of team.” Arms were 31 5/8, hands were 9 7/8. Just 20 reps on the bench. “Love that kid,” a second scout said. “The size does show up but he’s a good football player. I could see him in the right scenario, a zone scheme, being a low-level starter. He can get out on pulls. He can move. He’s just small and 32-inch arms. Garrett Bradbury is very similar. The kid’s character is top-shelf.” Won many academic honors, and was a semifinalist for the academic Heisman. “You know what?” said a third scout. “He’ll start as a rookie, probably. He can execute cut-off blocks. He’s tough. He neutralizes guys. He’s one of those guys who tries to finish. He’s probably second round if you need a center. He’s quick. He can redirect. He’s aggressive. He’s a good one.” From Shawnee, Kan.
4. JAKE SLAUGHTER, Florida (6-5, 304, 5.14, 4-5): Joined Bill Carr (1966) and Maurkice Pouncey (2009) as the three Gators centers to be named AP first-team All-America. “He’s the player that Florida speaks the most glowingly of,” said one scout. Backed up in 2021-’22 before making 33 starts in 2023-’25. “He’ll end up being a starter,” a second scout said. “Maybe fourth round. When you look at all these centers in the league they’re mid-to-late (picks). He’s like that. He’s smart and he’s aggressive. He can pass protect. Good enough athlete. He’s a bender.” Ranked No. 21 in the Gators’ 23-man recruiting class in 2021. “He’ll be good,” said another scout. “He just feels like one of those steady eddie guys. He’s a good enough athlete. He can bend. He can stay in front. He’s smart and has played a ton of football.” Arms were 32 3/8, hands were 10. “He’s one of those guys who struggled at times getting his weight up,” a third scout said. “But I think he’s been able to figure that out. He’s one of those guys that when he’s done playing in the league he’ll be like 220 in like a month. It’ll melt off him. He’s really a center only.” Four-time All-SEC academic honoree. From Sparr, Fla.
5. TREY ZUHN, Texas A&M (6-6 ½, 312, 5.06, 4-5): Started 48 games at LT in 2022-’25 and two games last year at center. “He’s a tackle but I feel he’s going to be a poor man’s Graham Barton,” one scout said. “Somebody’s going to say, ‘I’ll move you to center.’” Arm length (32 ½) would be the handicap outside. Hands were 10. “He played a lot of football at left tackle but with a little bit shorter arms he’s not ideal out there,” a second scout said. “So I’m kicking him inside. They talk about him in high regard and who he is. I could see him being somewhat of a developmental starter that could play early at guard and then kick over once he gets comfortable. I like him inside. A 6-6 ½-inch center is tall, but I think he bends well enough.” Four-star recruit from Fort Collins, Colo. “He doesn’t look like a natural left tackle but he held his own,” a third scout said. “He’ll go because he’s versatile. That gives him a lot of worth. He’s not great but he’s versatile and solid. That’s kind of what you’re dealing with – guys that can make your team and help you out.”
THE NEXT FIVE
Jager Burton, Kentucky (6-4, 312, 4.97)One scout said: “I think he’s a center first but can compete at guard. He’s got size and length (32 ½ arms). Got a lot of starting experience. You can see he leads the group upfront. He’s stout, but I don’t know how powerful he is in the run game. I don’t think the center-pull stuff is his game. He’s more gonna be firm, he’ll snap the ball and he’s gonna lead the troops. You’re not going to run down the cylinder very much because of his ability to anchor.”
Pat Coogan, Indiana (6-5 ½, 311, no 40)
One scout said: “I gave him a fourth-fifth grade because he has too many intangibles. He’s gonna make a ballclub. He’s gonna be an eight-year veteran. He’s got adequate everything as far as speed, strength and athletic ability. He’s a position mauler. He doesn’t do anything bad and he’s a mauler. I like those guys. Stout in pass pro. He can handle the nose guard. My report read the same way last year (before he left Notre Dame).”
Brian Parker, Duke (6-5, 309, 5.16)
One scout said: “Played right tackle for three years and didn’t look out of place there. Competitive kid, really tough. I was a little higher on him (as a center) before I saw him snap this spring. He’s not Graham Barton by any means. He’s smart and reliable.”
James Brockermeyer, Miami (6-3, 298, 5.31)
One scout said: “He’s smart as hell. His dad (Blake, NFL left tackle, 1995-’03, 103 starts) played. He’s little. Doesn’t look the part. He’s not for everybody. He’s undersized, but he doesn’t play small. He can take big guys one-on-one, bigger nose tackles, and block ‘em. He looks little. Nothing wrong with that, but guys like that usually kind of fall in (later) in the draft.”
Parker Brailsford, Alabama (6-2, 289, 5.00)
One scout said: “He’s talented but he’s so small. With all respect, he started at two major school (Washington, Alabama). But he’s a tiny guy. He makes Mark Stepnoski look like a giant. He was a great player, but he was small. I don’t think this guy is that.”
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McGinn Draft Series: QB's
“I think anybody that needs a quarterback would have to take him. I think he’s going to rise high. He’s wired that way. People say too many RPO’s, not enough dropback passes to go up in leagues. I think he can get past some of that. Is he an anticipatory thrower? Probably not, but you cannot deny the fact that he made big plays in big moments all season long. He’s not a nifty scrambler but he’ll just take the gap and take off. He can be an effective runner. He’d run better than 4.8.” Two-star recruit ranked as the No. 72 quarterback in 2022. Redshirted in ’22. Started the last eight games in ’23 (NFL passer rating of 85.9) before going 6-7 as the starter in ’24 (99.1). Moved to IU in ’25 and went 15-0 (130.4). Career rating was 107.7. “I saw him early in the year and I thought he was just a guy,” said a second scout. “They thought he’d be a little better than the guy (Kurtis Rourke) they had a year ago. As the season wore on he played better and better and better. His physical attributes are very average. Probably a 4.8 40, or 4.9. But he’ll knock out the IQ tests and get on the board and do all that stuff. He just throws a very accurate ball and knows the offense. All those things you want a quarterback to do, like Tom Brady did, he’s going to be that.” Just the Hoosiers’ third All-Big Ten first-team quarterback, joining Harry Gonso (1967) and Antwaan Randle El (2001). “He’s not going to get to the Raiders and say, ‘Hey, I’m going to transform this team,’” a third scout said. “You better have a lot around him. He’s going to be good. He’s got feel for it. Really good eyes. When he gets in rhythm he’s really, really good. But when he gets sped up things don’t work out too well for him. He’s got enough movement, but if he has to quickly move in the pocket to get out of trouble he struggles because he’s so big and his feet aren’t super quick. We’ve seen him play great in big moments but he’s had a lot of average games. Even the National Championship game, you’re not looking at him saying, ‘This is the first pick in the draft.’ But here we are.” Outstanding student. President of the campus ministry. Graduated from Cal in three years with a degree in business administration. “Put it this way,” a fourth scout said. “Jayden Daniels, Caleb Williams and Drake Maye … he would be below those guys. I saw them right away as franchise quarterbacks. This guy lacks mobility. You need brains, accuracy and wheels. Where are the wheels on this guy? Did you see him on that touchdown (in the CFP title game)? It looked like he was stuck in slow motion. I don’t see the escape ability. The Raiders have two tackles but the inner three of that offensive line is bad.” Ran for 473 yards and 11 touchdowns. “It’d scare me to pick him in the first round,” said a fifth scout. “You don’t see enough create. You don’t see enough driving the ball down the field. Goody two-shoes personality. It’s going to be different in that pro locker room. The difference between college and the pros is not the size and speed. It’s the people you’re with. I just have this suspicion he’s going to rub people the wrong way the way he talks and acts.” From Miami.
2. TY SIMPSON, Alabama (6-1, 212, no 40, 1-2): Backed up Bryce Young in 2022 and Jalen Milroe in 2023-’24, throwing just 50 passes in three seasons. Started in ’25. “You could argue Ty Simpson over Mendoza,” one scout said. “The biggest concern is he’s a one-year starter. Started off really hot and then he got banged up and was dealing with injuries toward the end of the season. He’s really talented. He’s an underrated athlete. He’s got good feet and escapability. He’s really tough. Probably his best trait is his football intelligence and instincts. Kid’s always in command. Really good pre- and post-snap. You see it on film. He can manipulate safeties with his eyes. His footwork is really good, both in the shotgun and coming out from under center. He’s got a quick, compact release. His touch is really good. With the right team he can be a solid starter. I think he’d run 4.6, 4.65.” His father, Jason, owns a 130-98 record as coach of FCS Tennessee-Martin since 2006. Jason played quarterback at Mississippi State for two years. “Son of a coach,” a second scout said. “Good accuracy, smart. At one point during the season he was right up there at or above Mendoza.” Finished his career with a passer rating of 100.6. Also ran for 223 and five TDs. “He was as efficient as anybody in the country in the first eight weeks,” said a third scout. “Then he wasn’t 100%, got into tougher games and competition, didn’t play as good. He has subtle pocket movement. I think he’s a good enough scrambler. Not a great arm. He throws good. His greatest strength is he is a great kid. He’s still no certain thing. But there probably aren’t as many doubts (compared) to the others.” Five-star recruit from Martin, Tenn. “Fifteen starts, one-year starter,” said a fourth scout. “He’s a little guy that’s wild and inconsistent. He doesn’t have good feel for timing. He’s terrible against pressure. He’s a good little athlete but he doesn’t escape pressure well. He should have stayed in school. You’re really just gambling. There’s nothing on tape where you say, ‘He should have come out. He’s going to be a first-rounder.’ It’s years away with this guy.”
3. TAYLEN GREEN, Arkansas (6-6, 228, 4.39, 1-3): Compared by one scout to Colin Kaepernick (6-4 1/3, 230, 4.53), a second-round pick in 2011. “Damn right Kaepernick was good, and a lot of people crushed him (pre-draft), too,” said one scout. “The guy’s interesting. At least with this guy you’ve got something to work with. Those other guys are just limited. The athletic ability is crazy. His offensive line was awful. Every single play he’s running for his life, and he can run. He does have pocket feel. He’s poised and tough. he’s got some vision. The accuracy comes and goes. There might be a little ceiling on how great he can beat you as a passer. He sits in the pocket when he has time. When he gets out he looks downfield. When he runs it’s over with but he doesn’t look to do that. He’s not completely raw.” Spent three years at Boise State, redshirting in 2021 and starting 22 games in 2022-’23. His passer rating there was 88.6. In 24 starts for the Razorbacks his rating was 91.4 for a career mark of 90.3. “I thought he had glimpses of Randall Cunningham,” a second scout said. “I was intrigued by Green when I watched (2024) tape. Does anybody have enough time to work with another Justin Fields, who is now going to be on his fourth team in four years? He’s worth a shot as a dual-threat quarterback. But he lacks accuracy and all that.” Rushed 459 times for 2,405 (5.2) and 35 TDs. “Career completion mark was 60.1%. “He can run the RPOs,” a third scout said. “Long strider. Tall, high-cut athlete. Has very good scrambling ability. His footwork needs to be refined. He’s been primarily in the gun. He’s efficient in his accuracy on short and intermediate passes. Got good arm strength. Flashes touch and layering. He’s just inconsistent with his decisions and accuracy on the move against pressure. He can make some explosive plays but also has some bad, bad turnovers. There’s a lot of peaks and valleys. Is he ever going to be a No. 1? I don’t know but I think he can be a solid No. 2.” His 40 time, vertical jump (43 ½) and broad jump (11-2) all easily surpassed the other quarterbacks. “Talentwise, he is unique,” said a fourth scout. “But he is purely developmental. He’d be ideal to go somewhere like St. Louis (LA Rams) where he could just sit and learn. Because he has everything you want athletically and sizewise. He needs like the Full Monty, the full developmental rebuild.” Three-star recruit from Lewisville, Texas.
4. DREW ALLAR, Penn State (6-5, 230, no 40, 2-3): Played in 10 games, throwing 60 passes, as a true freshman in 2022 before starting 35 games in 2023-’25. “A year ago he was being talked about as maybe the top pick in the draft but then he decided to go back,” said one scout. “He’s got the prototype size of an NFL quarterback. Strong arm, better athlete than you might think because he’s more of a pocket quarterback. I think he’s better than 4.8. He’s very competitive. He was a good decision-maker but when pressured he flustered at times. He’s got the traits to be a capable starter.” Finished with a 3-3 record in a disappointing 2025 campaign before suffering a broken ankle against Northwestern. “Physically, it’s all there,” another scout said. “This guy can make any throw. Really good kid. Teammates really like him. They respect him. But when the games are big he does not play well. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen anything like it. There’s just something missing. I don’t know if it’s performance anxiety or what the hell goes on.” Finished with a passer rating of 100.4. Also ran for 732 and 12 TDs. “Something was off, something was missin’ because he’s got all the NFL traits and measurables,” a third scout said. “I just was concerned about his accuracy. It’s at all levels and it’s timing with receivers. I thought his touch and mechanics were worse the bigger the game got and the higher the competition. I don’t think his receivers helped him and he wasn’t sitting behind a very good O-line. I went back and looked at tapes from last year (2024) and I saw a better guy. Now he’s injured. Who knows where he’s at mentally?” Four-star recruit from Medina, Ohio. Also played basketball and baseball. “Just no decisiveness,” a fourth scout said. “He just doesn’t pull the trigger. Great kid, too. The game looks too fast for him.” Hands were 9 7/8. “He had as much physical talent as anybody but he breaks his leg and there’s something missing in his game,” a fifth scout said. “Can somebody fill in that blank? I don’t know. With a gun to my head I’d have him as my third quarterback just because I think I could craft an offense to help him. I mean, that Mickey Mouse system they’ve been in, it’s embarrassing. It was goofy. Something’s missing. He’s got too good of an arm. He never won a big game. He was tied to James Franklin. They kind of went in together and went out together. They could never get over the hump.”
5. GARRETT NUSSMEIER, Louisiana State (6-1 ½, 203, no 40, 2-3): Suffered an abdominal injury during practice in early August and finally was shut down after nine starts. “His stuff last year (2024) was great,” one scout said. “I don’t know what happened this year.” After backing up Jayden Daniels and others from 2021-’23, he started 22 games in 2024-’25. “Tale of two guys,” a second scout said. “In 2024, he looked like a starter in the NFL. But ’25 was a very difficult year. He played without any confidence. Everything looked like a player who was overthinking instead of going out there to win every snap. He had a much improved week in Mobile (for the Senior Bowl).” Went 15-8 in 23 starts with a passer rating of 93.6. Also ran for five touchdowns. “He can make some NFL throws from the pocket,” said a third scout. “He’s got really good arm strength. It’s just he’s small and makes a lot of mistakes just moving out of the pocket. When he’s on the run he’s forced a lot of balls. In the pocket, he’s got a great feel for buying a little extra time. He can really zip the ball. Third round.” Smallest hands (9 1/8) of the top 10 quarterbacks. “Hard to evaluate because I think he was hurt much of the season,” said a fourth scout. “Evaluating him off this year, I thought he was a backup. Tough kid, adequate arm strength but has some downfield inconsistencies. Not a great athlete. Most efficient in a short, quick passing game. His ball tails off beyond 25 (yards). Helped himself at the Senior Bowl. There’s concern that pressure could affect him. I’d say he’s around 4.9.” Four-star recruit from Lake Charles, La. His father, Doug, played quarterback for the Saints from 1994-’98 and currently is the team’s offensive coordinator.
. COLE PAYTON, North Dakota State (6-2 ½, 235, 4.61, 2-3): Started only as a senior during five-year stay in Fargo. “He played in multiple games throughout his career as like a running quarterback or lined up at running back like a gadget guy,” one scout said. “He’s lefthanded, which some people might not like as much. But the kid has size, he’s really athletic for his size and has excellent speed. He can turn like a 3- or 4-yard run into a 30-yard run. He has a little bit longer windup and a three-quarter release, but he does have elasticity in his arm to get it out quick. He’s got a really strong arm. His accuracy is unreal on deep balls and layering the ball. He has touch. The school has a history of producing draftable quarterbacks. You might let him sit for a year. Maybe use him in a Taysom Hill role as a rookie. This kid could be a really good starter by Year 2. I don’t think he gets out of the second or third round. He has too much ability to work with.” Never threw more than 27 passes in his first four seasons. Only attempted 224 for the rush-oriented Bison in 2025. Finished with a passer rating of 123.7. Also rushed 287 times for 1,918 (6.7) and 31 TDs. “He can make sideline throws, do fades, put it in the middle,” said a second scout. “When he runs he makes people miss. He can do short-yardage.” In addition to a fast 40, he went 40 in the vertical jump and 10-10 in the broad jump. Largest hands (10 ¼) of the top 15 quarterbacks. “Overall, he had a pretty good Senior Bowl,” said a third scout. “I think there’s something to him but it’s probably going to take a couple years. You better have a quarterback and let him develop his skills. I’d absolutely take Cole Payton over Cade Klubnik.” Earned a master’s degree in December 2025. “One-year starter at North Dakota State – no thank you,” said a fourth scout. “He’s got a slow left-handed windup. Got a really weak arm. Terrible against pressure. Kind of a one-read guy. Decent enough athlete when it’s a designed run, but doesn’t really escape pressure well. He’ll make it but I don’t think he’ll be a decent backup even.” From Omaha, Neb.
7. CARSON BECK, Miami (6-4 ½, 232, no 40, 3-4): Sat at Georgia from 2020-’22 before going 24-3 as the starter from 2023-’24. “Two years ago, he might have been a top-5 pick,” one scout said. “In (mid-2023) I said, ‘If he comes out he could be the first pick.’ Two years ago, he played pretty well (career-best rating of 115.0). Since then … in defense of him, it’s hard to lead at Georgia when the head coach (Kirby Smart) is screaming in a bullhorn all practice. It’s hard for a quarterback to kind of find his place when all that is going on. It was a good move for him to go to Miami. He’s older and bigger and stronger and wiser than most of the competition this past year but he didn’t really dominate. He had his moments. If Stetson Bennett’s on a team (Rams) as the third quarterback I think Carson Beck can be a 3, maybe even a 2. He’ll only be a starter through a twist of fate.” Took over for Cam Ward with the Hurricanes in 2025 and was the loser in the CFP Championship Game loss to Indiana. “He did what they needed him to do at Miami,” another scout said. “But when it came down to it they still took the ball out of his hand instead of letting him make a play.” His ratings were 98.1 in 2024 and 107.1 in 2025 for a career mark of 106.7. Also rushed for 288 and seven TDs. “They won without him at Georgia,” said a third scout. “I’ve got to say he had a tremendous year at Miami. They also had a dominating defense. They had everything to help him. He’ll make the crucial errors. He made crucial errors in the championship game. He’s not a mobile guy. I don’t see him as a solid starter.” Four-star recruit from Jacksonville, Fla. Was a professional prospect in baseball as a first baseman-pitcher. “He’s nothing,” a fourth scout said. “He’s just so erratic. He folds versus pressure. He’s got enough athletic ability but doesn’t really know when to run and create plays. He’s a backup. At best.”
8. JOE FAGNANO, Connecticut (6-3, 226, 4.83, 4-5): Spent four years at Maine, playing 27 games and posting a passer rating of 95.8. Moved to UConn in 2023 but a shoulder injury ended his first season after two games. Started in 2024-’25. “Had a phenomenal season this year,” one scout said. “He threw one interception (against 28 TDs). He’s got a nice arm. Pretty good athlete. He may start out as a No. 3 but he could end up being a good No. 2. He’s never going to be the guy you want to start over the long haul but he can be a reliable backup.” Became a Black Bear after turning down his other offer, which came from Bucknell. “Lacks big-time arm strength but compensates with his intelligence, accuracy and touch,” another scout said. “Competitive kid. Makes plays in critical situations. Decent athlete. Like his mechanics and footwork. He’s got really good short accuracy. Shows poise under pressure. I thought he’d be a solid backup.” Finished with a rating of 116.0 for the Huskies. His career mark was 110.1. Ran for 223 and four TDs at UConn and 535 plus five TDs at Maine. From Williamsport, Pa.
9. SAWYER ROBERTSON, Baylor (6-3 ½, 216, 4.67, 5): Redshirted in 2021 and played briefly in 2022 at Mississippi State before starting for the Bears for 2 ½ seasons. “He’s a lot like (Tyler) Shough from Louisville,” one scout said. “Nobody knew about him until he got in the all-star games and all of a sudden he’s a second-round pick in New Orleans. To me, that’s kind of what Sawyer is. A guy that wasn’t on the radar at the start of the year, then had a good year and did decent at the Senior Bowl. Just a name on the board at the start of the year before he started throwing for 400 yards and threw the ball accurately. He’s a pocket quarterback but is going to run when he has to. He could throw the seam route to the tight end.” Tested well athletically at the combine. Vertical jump was 37 ½. Finished with a 94.3 rating and ran for 316 and eight TDs. “Has good arm strength, velocity and range,” a second scout said. “Erratic with his footwork, setup and decision-making. Indecisiveness lulls in processing ands release times affect his overall accuracy. Got good enough short-area accuracy but spotty and erratic on the move. He has traits but needs extensive refinement.” Took over as the full-fledged starter in Game 3 of 2024. Four-star recruit from Lubbock, Texas. His cousin, Jarrett Stidham, is a quarterback for the Broncos.
10. CADE KLUBNIK, Clemson (6-2, 207, 4.69, 5-6): Went 26-14 as a starter. Best year was 2024 when he threw for 36 TDs and had a passer rating of 105.6. “He got overhyped,” said one scout. “He got exposed. He was at the East-West Game, not even at the Senior Bowl.” Career rating was 95.2, and he ran for 878 and 17 TDs. “He’s a good project,” said a second scout. “When I first did him I thought he was a late first-round pick. He has all the tools you’re looking for. He’s got an arm. He’s got mobility. He can run. He’s accurate, for the most part. Sometimes balls get away from him. Sometimes he misses guys. But a quick release. He can fire the ball in there. He’s tough. He’s got Derek Carr in him. The quick release, about the same size, athlete, boom – he can make every throw. He’s a guy that’s intriguing.” Ranked the No. 1 quarterback in the class of 2022. Played at Westlake in Austin, Texas, the school that produced Drew Brees and Nick Foles. ”I don’t know why he was talked about being a first-round draft choice,” a third scout said. “I didn’t like him two years ago.” Three-time All-ACC academic honoree and a semifinalist for the academic Heisman.
Said one scout: “He’s the pass-happy, sling-it-all-over-the-place kid. I’ll tell you what. That kid is tough. He will stand there and take a hit. I just thought his arm was OK. Pretty functional athlete, moves around pretty good. I didn’t feel he was in control of the game.”
Luke Altmyer, Illinois (6-1 ½, 211, 4.70)
Said one scout: “Not great, but not bad. He was very inconsistent all year. He reminded me of Nussmeier. Their years were similar. Very up and down, but they both threw the ball pretty well at the Senior Bowl. Looked a lot more composed.”
Jalon Daniels, Kansas (6-0 ½, 221, 4.64)
Said one scout: “Has some explosive play-making ability. He’s a four-year captain, first time ever in school history, which is pretty impressive. Has a strong arm when his feet are in sync with his release. Has a lack of height and some injury history as well. His tendency to run could impede his longevity, but he could be a solid backup.”
Haynes King, Georgia Tech (6-2 ½, 212, 4.52)
Said one scout: “Kid’s really tough and competitive. Hasn’t won a lot, takes a pretty good beating. His throwing motion and release improved as the season went along. Has good arm strength. Has mobility. Inaccurate. Durability is a concern but he has enough to be a No. 2.”
Jake Retzlaff, Brigham Young (6-0 ½, 209, no 40)
Said one scout: “Capable player. Athletic dual threat. Effective decision-making. Good arm strength. Streaky accuracy.”
QUARTERBACKS
1. FERNANDO MENDOZA, Indiana (6-4 ½, 236, no 40, 1): Became the first player from the Big Ten to win the Heisman Trophy since Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith in 2006. “He was the steady Eddie and part, a big part, of a really good team and now he emerges as the No. 1,” one scout said. “He’s got a lot of really good qualities. He’s big, tough and smart. He’s motivated, driven. He’s overcome a lot of adversity. He went from not being invited to walk on at Miami to Yale to, hey, we’ll take you at Cal to getting beat up out there to some extent,” said one scout.“I think anybody that needs a quarterback would have to take him. I think he’s going to rise high. He’s wired that way. People say too many RPO’s, not enough dropback passes to go up in leagues. I think he can get past some of that. Is he an anticipatory thrower? Probably not, but you cannot deny the fact that he made big plays in big moments all season long. He’s not a nifty scrambler but he’ll just take the gap and take off. He can be an effective runner. He’d run better than 4.8.” Two-star recruit ranked as the No. 72 quarterback in 2022. Redshirted in ’22. Started the last eight games in ’23 (NFL passer rating of 85.9) before going 6-7 as the starter in ’24 (99.1). Moved to IU in ’25 and went 15-0 (130.4). Career rating was 107.7. “I saw him early in the year and I thought he was just a guy,” said a second scout. “They thought he’d be a little better than the guy (Kurtis Rourke) they had a year ago. As the season wore on he played better and better and better. His physical attributes are very average. Probably a 4.8 40, or 4.9. But he’ll knock out the IQ tests and get on the board and do all that stuff. He just throws a very accurate ball and knows the offense. All those things you want a quarterback to do, like Tom Brady did, he’s going to be that.” Just the Hoosiers’ third All-Big Ten first-team quarterback, joining Harry Gonso (1967) and Antwaan Randle El (2001). “He’s not going to get to the Raiders and say, ‘Hey, I’m going to transform this team,’” a third scout said. “You better have a lot around him. He’s going to be good. He’s got feel for it. Really good eyes. When he gets in rhythm he’s really, really good. But when he gets sped up things don’t work out too well for him. He’s got enough movement, but if he has to quickly move in the pocket to get out of trouble he struggles because he’s so big and his feet aren’t super quick. We’ve seen him play great in big moments but he’s had a lot of average games. Even the National Championship game, you’re not looking at him saying, ‘This is the first pick in the draft.’ But here we are.” Outstanding student. President of the campus ministry. Graduated from Cal in three years with a degree in business administration. “Put it this way,” a fourth scout said. “Jayden Daniels, Caleb Williams and Drake Maye … he would be below those guys. I saw them right away as franchise quarterbacks. This guy lacks mobility. You need brains, accuracy and wheels. Where are the wheels on this guy? Did you see him on that touchdown (in the CFP title game)? It looked like he was stuck in slow motion. I don’t see the escape ability. The Raiders have two tackles but the inner three of that offensive line is bad.” Ran for 473 yards and 11 touchdowns. “It’d scare me to pick him in the first round,” said a fifth scout. “You don’t see enough create. You don’t see enough driving the ball down the field. Goody two-shoes personality. It’s going to be different in that pro locker room. The difference between college and the pros is not the size and speed. It’s the people you’re with. I just have this suspicion he’s going to rub people the wrong way the way he talks and acts.” From Miami.
2. TY SIMPSON, Alabama (6-1, 212, no 40, 1-2): Backed up Bryce Young in 2022 and Jalen Milroe in 2023-’24, throwing just 50 passes in three seasons. Started in ’25. “You could argue Ty Simpson over Mendoza,” one scout said. “The biggest concern is he’s a one-year starter. Started off really hot and then he got banged up and was dealing with injuries toward the end of the season. He’s really talented. He’s an underrated athlete. He’s got good feet and escapability. He’s really tough. Probably his best trait is his football intelligence and instincts. Kid’s always in command. Really good pre- and post-snap. You see it on film. He can manipulate safeties with his eyes. His footwork is really good, both in the shotgun and coming out from under center. He’s got a quick, compact release. His touch is really good. With the right team he can be a solid starter. I think he’d run 4.6, 4.65.” His father, Jason, owns a 130-98 record as coach of FCS Tennessee-Martin since 2006. Jason played quarterback at Mississippi State for two years. “Son of a coach,” a second scout said. “Good accuracy, smart. At one point during the season he was right up there at or above Mendoza.” Finished his career with a passer rating of 100.6. Also ran for 223 and five TDs. “He was as efficient as anybody in the country in the first eight weeks,” said a third scout. “Then he wasn’t 100%, got into tougher games and competition, didn’t play as good. He has subtle pocket movement. I think he’s a good enough scrambler. Not a great arm. He throws good. His greatest strength is he is a great kid. He’s still no certain thing. But there probably aren’t as many doubts (compared) to the others.” Five-star recruit from Martin, Tenn. “Fifteen starts, one-year starter,” said a fourth scout. “He’s a little guy that’s wild and inconsistent. He doesn’t have good feel for timing. He’s terrible against pressure. He’s a good little athlete but he doesn’t escape pressure well. He should have stayed in school. You’re really just gambling. There’s nothing on tape where you say, ‘He should have come out. He’s going to be a first-rounder.’ It’s years away with this guy.”
3. TAYLEN GREEN, Arkansas (6-6, 228, 4.39, 1-3): Compared by one scout to Colin Kaepernick (6-4 1/3, 230, 4.53), a second-round pick in 2011. “Damn right Kaepernick was good, and a lot of people crushed him (pre-draft), too,” said one scout. “The guy’s interesting. At least with this guy you’ve got something to work with. Those other guys are just limited. The athletic ability is crazy. His offensive line was awful. Every single play he’s running for his life, and he can run. He does have pocket feel. He’s poised and tough. he’s got some vision. The accuracy comes and goes. There might be a little ceiling on how great he can beat you as a passer. He sits in the pocket when he has time. When he gets out he looks downfield. When he runs it’s over with but he doesn’t look to do that. He’s not completely raw.” Spent three years at Boise State, redshirting in 2021 and starting 22 games in 2022-’23. His passer rating there was 88.6. In 24 starts for the Razorbacks his rating was 91.4 for a career mark of 90.3. “I thought he had glimpses of Randall Cunningham,” a second scout said. “I was intrigued by Green when I watched (2024) tape. Does anybody have enough time to work with another Justin Fields, who is now going to be on his fourth team in four years? He’s worth a shot as a dual-threat quarterback. But he lacks accuracy and all that.” Rushed 459 times for 2,405 (5.2) and 35 TDs. “Career completion mark was 60.1%. “He can run the RPOs,” a third scout said. “Long strider. Tall, high-cut athlete. Has very good scrambling ability. His footwork needs to be refined. He’s been primarily in the gun. He’s efficient in his accuracy on short and intermediate passes. Got good arm strength. Flashes touch and layering. He’s just inconsistent with his decisions and accuracy on the move against pressure. He can make some explosive plays but also has some bad, bad turnovers. There’s a lot of peaks and valleys. Is he ever going to be a No. 1? I don’t know but I think he can be a solid No. 2.” His 40 time, vertical jump (43 ½) and broad jump (11-2) all easily surpassed the other quarterbacks. “Talentwise, he is unique,” said a fourth scout. “But he is purely developmental. He’d be ideal to go somewhere like St. Louis (LA Rams) where he could just sit and learn. Because he has everything you want athletically and sizewise. He needs like the Full Monty, the full developmental rebuild.” Three-star recruit from Lewisville, Texas.
4. DREW ALLAR, Penn State (6-5, 230, no 40, 2-3): Played in 10 games, throwing 60 passes, as a true freshman in 2022 before starting 35 games in 2023-’25. “A year ago he was being talked about as maybe the top pick in the draft but then he decided to go back,” said one scout. “He’s got the prototype size of an NFL quarterback. Strong arm, better athlete than you might think because he’s more of a pocket quarterback. I think he’s better than 4.8. He’s very competitive. He was a good decision-maker but when pressured he flustered at times. He’s got the traits to be a capable starter.” Finished with a 3-3 record in a disappointing 2025 campaign before suffering a broken ankle against Northwestern. “Physically, it’s all there,” another scout said. “This guy can make any throw. Really good kid. Teammates really like him. They respect him. But when the games are big he does not play well. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen anything like it. There’s just something missing. I don’t know if it’s performance anxiety or what the hell goes on.” Finished with a passer rating of 100.4. Also ran for 732 and 12 TDs. “Something was off, something was missin’ because he’s got all the NFL traits and measurables,” a third scout said. “I just was concerned about his accuracy. It’s at all levels and it’s timing with receivers. I thought his touch and mechanics were worse the bigger the game got and the higher the competition. I don’t think his receivers helped him and he wasn’t sitting behind a very good O-line. I went back and looked at tapes from last year (2024) and I saw a better guy. Now he’s injured. Who knows where he’s at mentally?” Four-star recruit from Medina, Ohio. Also played basketball and baseball. “Just no decisiveness,” a fourth scout said. “He just doesn’t pull the trigger. Great kid, too. The game looks too fast for him.” Hands were 9 7/8. “He had as much physical talent as anybody but he breaks his leg and there’s something missing in his game,” a fifth scout said. “Can somebody fill in that blank? I don’t know. With a gun to my head I’d have him as my third quarterback just because I think I could craft an offense to help him. I mean, that Mickey Mouse system they’ve been in, it’s embarrassing. It was goofy. Something’s missing. He’s got too good of an arm. He never won a big game. He was tied to James Franklin. They kind of went in together and went out together. They could never get over the hump.”
5. GARRETT NUSSMEIER, Louisiana State (6-1 ½, 203, no 40, 2-3): Suffered an abdominal injury during practice in early August and finally was shut down after nine starts. “His stuff last year (2024) was great,” one scout said. “I don’t know what happened this year.” After backing up Jayden Daniels and others from 2021-’23, he started 22 games in 2024-’25. “Tale of two guys,” a second scout said. “In 2024, he looked like a starter in the NFL. But ’25 was a very difficult year. He played without any confidence. Everything looked like a player who was overthinking instead of going out there to win every snap. He had a much improved week in Mobile (for the Senior Bowl).” Went 15-8 in 23 starts with a passer rating of 93.6. Also ran for five touchdowns. “He can make some NFL throws from the pocket,” said a third scout. “He’s got really good arm strength. It’s just he’s small and makes a lot of mistakes just moving out of the pocket. When he’s on the run he’s forced a lot of balls. In the pocket, he’s got a great feel for buying a little extra time. He can really zip the ball. Third round.” Smallest hands (9 1/8) of the top 10 quarterbacks. “Hard to evaluate because I think he was hurt much of the season,” said a fourth scout. “Evaluating him off this year, I thought he was a backup. Tough kid, adequate arm strength but has some downfield inconsistencies. Not a great athlete. Most efficient in a short, quick passing game. His ball tails off beyond 25 (yards). Helped himself at the Senior Bowl. There’s concern that pressure could affect him. I’d say he’s around 4.9.” Four-star recruit from Lake Charles, La. His father, Doug, played quarterback for the Saints from 1994-’98 and currently is the team’s offensive coordinator.
. COLE PAYTON, North Dakota State (6-2 ½, 235, 4.61, 2-3): Started only as a senior during five-year stay in Fargo. “He played in multiple games throughout his career as like a running quarterback or lined up at running back like a gadget guy,” one scout said. “He’s lefthanded, which some people might not like as much. But the kid has size, he’s really athletic for his size and has excellent speed. He can turn like a 3- or 4-yard run into a 30-yard run. He has a little bit longer windup and a three-quarter release, but he does have elasticity in his arm to get it out quick. He’s got a really strong arm. His accuracy is unreal on deep balls and layering the ball. He has touch. The school has a history of producing draftable quarterbacks. You might let him sit for a year. Maybe use him in a Taysom Hill role as a rookie. This kid could be a really good starter by Year 2. I don’t think he gets out of the second or third round. He has too much ability to work with.” Never threw more than 27 passes in his first four seasons. Only attempted 224 for the rush-oriented Bison in 2025. Finished with a passer rating of 123.7. Also rushed 287 times for 1,918 (6.7) and 31 TDs. “He can make sideline throws, do fades, put it in the middle,” said a second scout. “When he runs he makes people miss. He can do short-yardage.” In addition to a fast 40, he went 40 in the vertical jump and 10-10 in the broad jump. Largest hands (10 ¼) of the top 15 quarterbacks. “Overall, he had a pretty good Senior Bowl,” said a third scout. “I think there’s something to him but it’s probably going to take a couple years. You better have a quarterback and let him develop his skills. I’d absolutely take Cole Payton over Cade Klubnik.” Earned a master’s degree in December 2025. “One-year starter at North Dakota State – no thank you,” said a fourth scout. “He’s got a slow left-handed windup. Got a really weak arm. Terrible against pressure. Kind of a one-read guy. Decent enough athlete when it’s a designed run, but doesn’t really escape pressure well. He’ll make it but I don’t think he’ll be a decent backup even.” From Omaha, Neb.
7. CARSON BECK, Miami (6-4 ½, 232, no 40, 3-4): Sat at Georgia from 2020-’22 before going 24-3 as the starter from 2023-’24. “Two years ago, he might have been a top-5 pick,” one scout said. “In (mid-2023) I said, ‘If he comes out he could be the first pick.’ Two years ago, he played pretty well (career-best rating of 115.0). Since then … in defense of him, it’s hard to lead at Georgia when the head coach (Kirby Smart) is screaming in a bullhorn all practice. It’s hard for a quarterback to kind of find his place when all that is going on. It was a good move for him to go to Miami. He’s older and bigger and stronger and wiser than most of the competition this past year but he didn’t really dominate. He had his moments. If Stetson Bennett’s on a team (Rams) as the third quarterback I think Carson Beck can be a 3, maybe even a 2. He’ll only be a starter through a twist of fate.” Took over for Cam Ward with the Hurricanes in 2025 and was the loser in the CFP Championship Game loss to Indiana. “He did what they needed him to do at Miami,” another scout said. “But when it came down to it they still took the ball out of his hand instead of letting him make a play.” His ratings were 98.1 in 2024 and 107.1 in 2025 for a career mark of 106.7. Also rushed for 288 and seven TDs. “They won without him at Georgia,” said a third scout. “I’ve got to say he had a tremendous year at Miami. They also had a dominating defense. They had everything to help him. He’ll make the crucial errors. He made crucial errors in the championship game. He’s not a mobile guy. I don’t see him as a solid starter.” Four-star recruit from Jacksonville, Fla. Was a professional prospect in baseball as a first baseman-pitcher. “He’s nothing,” a fourth scout said. “He’s just so erratic. He folds versus pressure. He’s got enough athletic ability but doesn’t really know when to run and create plays. He’s a backup. At best.”
8. JOE FAGNANO, Connecticut (6-3, 226, 4.83, 4-5): Spent four years at Maine, playing 27 games and posting a passer rating of 95.8. Moved to UConn in 2023 but a shoulder injury ended his first season after two games. Started in 2024-’25. “Had a phenomenal season this year,” one scout said. “He threw one interception (against 28 TDs). He’s got a nice arm. Pretty good athlete. He may start out as a No. 3 but he could end up being a good No. 2. He’s never going to be the guy you want to start over the long haul but he can be a reliable backup.” Became a Black Bear after turning down his other offer, which came from Bucknell. “Lacks big-time arm strength but compensates with his intelligence, accuracy and touch,” another scout said. “Competitive kid. Makes plays in critical situations. Decent athlete. Like his mechanics and footwork. He’s got really good short accuracy. Shows poise under pressure. I thought he’d be a solid backup.” Finished with a rating of 116.0 for the Huskies. His career mark was 110.1. Ran for 223 and four TDs at UConn and 535 plus five TDs at Maine. From Williamsport, Pa.
9. SAWYER ROBERTSON, Baylor (6-3 ½, 216, 4.67, 5): Redshirted in 2021 and played briefly in 2022 at Mississippi State before starting for the Bears for 2 ½ seasons. “He’s a lot like (Tyler) Shough from Louisville,” one scout said. “Nobody knew about him until he got in the all-star games and all of a sudden he’s a second-round pick in New Orleans. To me, that’s kind of what Sawyer is. A guy that wasn’t on the radar at the start of the year, then had a good year and did decent at the Senior Bowl. Just a name on the board at the start of the year before he started throwing for 400 yards and threw the ball accurately. He’s a pocket quarterback but is going to run when he has to. He could throw the seam route to the tight end.” Tested well athletically at the combine. Vertical jump was 37 ½. Finished with a 94.3 rating and ran for 316 and eight TDs. “Has good arm strength, velocity and range,” a second scout said. “Erratic with his footwork, setup and decision-making. Indecisiveness lulls in processing ands release times affect his overall accuracy. Got good enough short-area accuracy but spotty and erratic on the move. He has traits but needs extensive refinement.” Took over as the full-fledged starter in Game 3 of 2024. Four-star recruit from Lubbock, Texas. His cousin, Jarrett Stidham, is a quarterback for the Broncos.
10. CADE KLUBNIK, Clemson (6-2, 207, 4.69, 5-6): Went 26-14 as a starter. Best year was 2024 when he threw for 36 TDs and had a passer rating of 105.6. “He got overhyped,” said one scout. “He got exposed. He was at the East-West Game, not even at the Senior Bowl.” Career rating was 95.2, and he ran for 878 and 17 TDs. “He’s a good project,” said a second scout. “When I first did him I thought he was a late first-round pick. He has all the tools you’re looking for. He’s got an arm. He’s got mobility. He can run. He’s accurate, for the most part. Sometimes balls get away from him. Sometimes he misses guys. But a quick release. He can fire the ball in there. He’s tough. He’s got Derek Carr in him. The quick release, about the same size, athlete, boom – he can make every throw. He’s a guy that’s intriguing.” Ranked the No. 1 quarterback in the class of 2022. Played at Westlake in Austin, Texas, the school that produced Drew Brees and Nick Foles. ”I don’t know why he was talked about being a first-round draft choice,” a third scout said. “I didn’t like him two years ago.” Three-time All-ACC academic honoree and a semifinalist for the academic Heisman.
THE NEXT FIVE
Behren Morton, Texas Tech (6-2, 218, 4.89)Said one scout: “He’s the pass-happy, sling-it-all-over-the-place kid. I’ll tell you what. That kid is tough. He will stand there and take a hit. I just thought his arm was OK. Pretty functional athlete, moves around pretty good. I didn’t feel he was in control of the game.”
Luke Altmyer, Illinois (6-1 ½, 211, 4.70)
Said one scout: “Not great, but not bad. He was very inconsistent all year. He reminded me of Nussmeier. Their years were similar. Very up and down, but they both threw the ball pretty well at the Senior Bowl. Looked a lot more composed.”
Jalon Daniels, Kansas (6-0 ½, 221, 4.64)
Said one scout: “Has some explosive play-making ability. He’s a four-year captain, first time ever in school history, which is pretty impressive. Has a strong arm when his feet are in sync with his release. Has a lack of height and some injury history as well. His tendency to run could impede his longevity, but he could be a solid backup.”
Haynes King, Georgia Tech (6-2 ½, 212, 4.52)
Said one scout: “Kid’s really tough and competitive. Hasn’t won a lot, takes a pretty good beating. His throwing motion and release improved as the season went along. Has good arm strength. Has mobility. Inaccurate. Durability is a concern but he has enough to be a No. 2.”
Jake Retzlaff, Brigham Young (6-0 ½, 209, no 40)
Said one scout: “Capable player. Athletic dual threat. Effective decision-making. Good arm strength. Streaky accuracy.”
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