Looking Ahead to the 2015 NFL Draft
We are now only a week away from the 2014 NFL Draft. Let’s take a break from analyzing this year’s prospects and look ahead to the top players of the 2015 class:
QB Sean Mannion (Oregon State)
Mannion considered going pro in 2014, having already earned his bachelor’s degree as a redshirt Junior. He consulted the NFL Draft Advisory Board and learned he was projected as a 3rd round pick if he entered this year’s draft. Wisely, he decided to return to Oregon State to hone his skills and increase his stock for next year.
If Mannion can continue to produce like he did last year, when he put up a season statline of 4662 passing yards and 37 touchdown to 15 interceptions, he should play his way to a 1st round selection in 2015. It will be interesting to see if his success will continue now that he no longer has the benefit of throwing to wide receiver Brandon Cooks, who is projected as a top 20 selection this year.
DE Alvin “Bud” Dupree (Kentucky)
When you play in the best conference in college football, the SEC, it takes a lot to stand out. Dupree did just that when he led all defensive linemen in the conference in tackles (61) and posted team-highs in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (9.5).
Dupree is no Clowney, but with another year of development, he may be next year’s Anthony Barr or Khalil Mack.
RB Karlos Williams (FSU)
Last year, Williams was the third string running back for the Seminoles behind Devonta Freeman and James Wilder Jr. Williams proved to be the most explosive player of that talented trio, rushing for 730 yards, 11 touchdowns, and a more-than-healthy average of 8 yards per carry.
What is most exciting about Williams is that his technique is especially raw. In 2013 Williams converted from safety to running back. No expected him to produce with such little experience, but he did that and more. With another year to learn the finer points of the position, Williams is primed to be one of the top running back prospects in 2015.
Leave a Reply