As the college football regular season approaches its conclusion, the spotlight intensifies on the top NFL prospects. With fewer opportunities left to showcase their skills, these athletes are under the watchful eye of ESPN’s NFL Draft expert, Mel Kiper Jr.
Top 10 Standouts in the Draft Rankings
Kiper has recently updated his Top 25 Big Board, and there’s been some fascinating movement within the rankings. Among the highlights is a quarterback making a significant leap into the Top 10. This shift is particularly exciting for fans and scouts alike, as it indicates the dynamic nature of college football and its impact on the upcoming NFL Draft.
One player who continues to dominate is Hunter. He remains firmly at the top of Kiper’s list, and for good reason. The two-way star from Colorado has excelled at an elite level in not just one, but two positions. If he maintains this high level of performance, NFL teams will face a challenging decision regarding his position at the next level—whether to utilize him in one role or both.
Defensive Stars Making Waves
Another player to watch is Will Johnson from Michigan. Although he hasn’t played since facing Illinois in October, he is still projected to be one of the first defensive backs selected in the draft. His impressive performance in the six games he played this season included two interceptions, both returned for touchdowns. If he can return for Michigan’s final two games, he may further solidify his standing.
Moving to the edge, Carter has transitioned into a more prominent role this season and has thrived. Leading the Big Ten with 16 tackles for loss and eight sacks, he has become a disruptive force that NFL teams covet. His ability to force fumbles and bat down passes adds to his value as a defensive prospect.
Meanwhile, Williams has also made a name for himself at Georgia. After recovering from an early-season ankle injury, he has recorded 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. His knack for generating pressure—eight pressures in addition to his sacks—coupled with solid run defense, makes him a well-rounded edge rusher.
Offensive Prospects on the Rise
In the quarterback realm, Sanders has made the most significant jump in Kiper’s rankings this week, landing in the Top 10. He stands out as Kiper’s highest-ranked quarterback, showcasing his ability to make plays outside the structure of the offense. While he still has room for improvement, particularly in minimizing mistakes, his arm talent has caught the attention of scouts.
On the offensive line, Banks has established himself as a complete package. With over 35 starts in his Texas career and fewer than five sacks allowed, he is a formidable left tackle. While his pass protection is top-notch, he still has room to grow in run blocking, which could make him a versatile option at the next level.
The Impact of Transfers and Emerging Talents
Another standout is Nic Scourton, a transfer from Purdue who has made a significant impact at Texas A&M. His powerful frame and length have allowed him to thrive as both a rusher and run defender on the edge. With 12.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and 25 pressures this season, he is an appealing prospect for NFL teams seeking a powerful defensive end.
Meanwhile, Starks has maintained his position in Kiper’s Top 10, showcasing his versatility as a safety. At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, he can make acrobatic interceptions and tackle effectively in the open field. This combination of skills makes him a coveted asset for modern NFL defenses.
Players to Watch Beyond the Top 10
As we delve deeper into Kiper’s rankings, several players stand out in the 11-25 range. Notable names include:
– 11. QB Cam Ward, Miami (+1)
– 12. LB Jalon Walker, Georgia (-2)
– 13. WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona
– 14. OLB James Pearce, Tennessee
– 15. DT Kenneth Grant, Michigan
– 16. LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama (new to Top 25)
– 17. DT Derrick Harmon, Oregon
– 18. WR Luther Burden, Missouri
– 19. OT Will Campbell, LSU
– 20. CB Shavon Revel, East Carolina
– 21. OT Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota
– 22. CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
– 23. TE Tyler Warren, Penn State
– 24. TE Colston Loveland, Michigan
– 25. OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State
The Road Ahead
As the college football season winds down, there are still countless opportunities for players to make their mark before the NFL Draft. The performances in the coming weeks could reshape the draft landscape, with prospects vying for their chance to shine. With so much talent on display, fans and scouts alike will be eagerly watching to see who rises to the occasion. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes are high as we approach the final stretch of the season.
