As anyone who follows the NFL Draft knows positive or negative momentum can play a big role in determining where a player is ultimately chosen. The following is a look at some prospects who have that buzz at the moment as well as some who do not. Please be sure to keep in mind that this is not a replacement or an update to the positional rankings or mock draft. For example, a player could be #1 on this list but that might only mean he has gone from a 7th round pick to a 5th rounder or an undrafted free agent to a late round possibility. So without further adieu, here are the senior prospects with the most helium:
Updated: November 9, 2011
1. Audie Cole, LB, North Carolina St.
This past offseason Audie Cole made the move from strongside linebacker to the middle for the Wolfpack and so far the move seems to have paid off. Cole’s best attribute is his ability to read offenses and react to plays that are developing around him. Cole doesn’t showcase superior speed, quickness, or change of direction but he is technically sound and a prototypical thumper in the middle. In fact, in terms of draft stock there may not be much separating Cole from former teammate Nate Irving, who was a third round pick. Cole has also showcased excellent special teams ability in the past and could contribute in that capacity at the next level as well. In the rivalry matchup against North Carolina, Cole continued to lead the defense and rack up tackles while also finishing with a sack and forced fumble. Cole is clearly the top senior inside linebacker prospect for the 2012 NFL Draft and is going to be selected a whole lot earlier than most realize.
2. Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida St.
With Andrew Datko out for the season with a shoulder injury, Sanders was moved from right tackle to left tackle. While Datko’s injury was unfortunate, it has provided Sanders with an excellent opportunity to impress pro scouts by protecting the blind side down the stretch. Sanders still needs to fill out his frame but he is a great athlete with quick feet who is effective in both the pass and run games. Sanders also has a ton of experience against high-quality experience, which shouldn’t be discounted. Against Boston College, Sanders had one of the best games of his career and was lock down in all facets of the game. Sanders was always viewed as one of this year’s top senior blockers and an early round pick, but if he finishes strong then impresses in an all-star game and workouts it’s not unrealistic to think he could be the first senior offensive tackle off the board next April. Keep a very close eye on Zebrie Sanders in the coming months.
3. Daniel Herron, RB, Ohio St.
Daniel Herron was one of the Buckeyes who was suspended for the start of the season for his involvement in the tattoo scandal. However, since returning at mid-season Herron has done his best to make up for lost time. The nickname “Boom” is appropriate because Herron has been laying the lumber on opponents, rarely being taken down by just one tackler. Herron still needs work as a pass catcher and blocker but should at least be a solid complimentary back who can excel in short yardage situations at the next level. Herron has done over one hundred yards in all three games he has played this season and is averaging nearly six yards per carry. Against a poor Indiana defense, Herron had a couple of big runs and finished with 141 yards and 1 touchdown on the day. Herron's stock is still in flux but he should be selected at some point in the mid to late rounds.
4. Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma St.
Weeden will turn 28-years-old this season as a senior for the Cowboys. With age comes experience as an athlete though, both in Minor League Baseball and college football. Weeden had plenty of problems going through progressions and reading defenses as a junior, but he has taken a big step forward this year and is becoming a legitimate pro prospect. Of course having a stud like Justin Blackmon to throw to at wideout doesn’t hurt, but Weeden has looked very poised, has improved his accuracy and is also doing a better job of looking off defenders. Weeden took the reins in a high-profile matchup against Kansas State, throwing for over 500 yards and 4 touchdowns. Weeden’s 78.3% completion percentage was among his best of the season and his draft stock continues to soar. If Weeden were younger he would likely be a Day Two lock, but at this point he shouldn't fall further than the middle rounds.
5. Jeff Demps, RB, Florida
Chris Rainey has been getting most of the snaps and attention for the Gators this season, but Demps is another extremely fast runner who could come off the board as early as Day Two. One of the best track athletes in the country, Demps must be accounted for at all times due to that world-class speed. With Rainey nursing an injury, Demps was the primary ball carrier for Florida this past week. In a close win over Vanderbilt, Demps handled a heavy workload and toted the ball 23 times for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Demps was also a factor in the receiving game as well. Demps isn’t built to be anything more than a change-of-pace or situational type at the next level but teams will undoubtedly find a way to utilize this versatile playmaker. In the long run Demps will likely settle into a role similar to the one Dexter McCluster plays for the Kansas City Chiefs.
6. Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina
There is no denying Zach Brown’s talent when watching the 6’2, 230 pound linebacker fly all over the field and make plays sideline to sideline. The biggest question with Brown is whether he is a true “football player” or merely a great athlete. Brown has stepped up his play as a senior though, making huge strides fundamentally while taking better angles and showing improved instincts in coverage. Brown can still get neutralized by bigger blockers at times, but first they have to catch the speedy ‘backer. Brown and the Tar Heel defense were the silver lining in a loss to in-state rival North Carolina St. In that contest Brown showcased his range and was seemingly always around the action. Not only did Brown force a fumble on a rushing play but he was also a consistent force in the backfiel, applying pressure and forcing some bad throws. Brown appears to be solidifying himself as a first round pick, especially if he works out as well as expected.
7. Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati
The Bearcats don’t get a lot of attention nationally, but Wolfe is quietly having and outstanding senior campaign. A pro quality pass rusher on the interior of Cincy’s defensive line, Wolfe shows a real knack for getting into the backfield and causing problems for opposing quarterbacks and has often been a difference maker this season. The leverage Wolfe creates presents a big problem for offensive linemen and he routinely gets under their pads and uses a variety of moves to get past them into the backfield. Checking in at 6-5 and 300 pounds, Wolfe also offers some versatility and could play either the 4-3 undertackle position or defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Wolfe has been a bit inconsistent at times this season but has turned it on in big moments. This past weekend Wolfe recorded two sacks against Pittsburgh, helping his team squeak out a close victory. Wolfe seems to prey on weaker blockers but when his motor is running he’s a force to be reckoned with. Wolfe is still more of a mid-to-late round possibility but could turn out to be a very intriguing option in that range.
8. Marvin McNutt, WR, Iowa Hawkeyes
The centerpiece of the Hawkeyes potent offense this season has been wideout Marvin McNutt, who is an underrated pro prospect. McNutt nearly entered the draft as a junior but opted to return for his senior campaign. That looks like it was a smart move as McNutt is moving up draft boards around the league. A tall, rangy target, the 6’4 and 215 pound McNutt is a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive backs and a terror in the redzone. McNutt doesn’t have elite speed or acceleration but is able to compensate with a huge wingspan, terrific body control and the ability to outleap corners and high point the ball. This past weekend McNutt led the Hawkeyes to a huge win over Big Ten foe Michigan while putting up yet another 100+ yard performance. At the absolute least McNutt is a solid mid-round option and could even sneak into the top three rounds when all is said and done.
9. Jarius Wright, WR, Arkansas
Arkansas has a receiving corp that would make some NFL teams jealous, with no fewer than four legitimate next level prospects at the position. While Greg Childs is often the focus of headlines, Jarius Wright has become one of quarterback Tyler Wilson’s favorite targets and could even be selected ahead of his more highly-touted teammate. Checking in at just 5’10 and 180 pounds, Wright's size may limit his pro potential but he's proven that he knows how to find holes in defenses and can utilize that 4.3 speed to blow past defensive backs. Wright also has sure hands and gets out of his breaks quickly, which is giving SEC defenses fits. Wright is continuing his rise up draft boards, helping the Razorbacks conquer South Carolina with 4 catches for 103 yards and two huge touchdowns. Don't be surprised if Wright is one of the top slot receivers available for the 2012 NFL Draft.
10. Da'Jon McKnight, WR, Minnesota
Despite their struggles as a program the Golden Gophers have actually produced a number of excellent pro prospects in recent years, most notably Marion Barber III, Laurence Maroney, Matt Spaeth and Eric Decker. Da’Jon McKnight won’t be an early round pick like those guys, but could be an intriguing option in the later rounds. At 6-3 and 211 pounds with good leaping ability, big hands and a physical style, McKnight is a terrific red zone target and can be extremely difficult to cover. This past weekend McKnight nearly led Minnesota to one of the year’s biggest upsets, finishing with 9 catches for 173 yards and 3 touchdowns in a close loss to a Top 15 team in Michigan St. The success that Decker is having with the Denver Broncos certainly won't hurt McKnight's cause and it would be a shocker if he isn't in a camp next fall as either a late round pick or priority free agent.
The Not-So-Hot List
Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma
Broyles had a record setting junior campaign, catching 131 balls while helping the Sooners win the Big 12 Championship and 2011 Fiesta Bowl. Broyles seriously considered going pro as an underclassmen but ultimately opted to return for his senior season and a shot at a National Championship. Unfortunately for Broyles, he suffered a torn ACL this past weekend and will not only be out for the rest of the college season, but he is in danger of not being able to workout for teams before the NFL Draft. Broyles has sure hands, is more quick than fast and is an outstanding route runner. Broyles doesn't have the ideal size that you would prefer, coming in at only 5’10 and 188 pounds, but he should be effective out of the slot at the next level if he gets a clean bill of health for his professional career. At this point it's hard to envision Broyles being selected before round three and he could even slip out of Day Two all together. However, some team is going to land a very talented player and just may get a steal with Broyles.
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This past offseason Audie Cole made the move from strongside linebacker to the middle for the Wolfpack and so far the move seems to have paid off. Cole’s best attribute is his ability to read offenses and react to plays that are developing around him. Cole doesn’t showcase superior speed, quickness, or change of direction but he is technically sound and a prototypical thumper in the middle. In fact, in terms of draft stock there may not be much separating Cole from former teammate Nate Irving, who was a third round pick. Cole has also showcased excellent special teams ability in the past and could contribute in that capacity at the next level as well. In the rivalry matchup against North Carolina, Cole continued to lead the defense and rack up tackles while also finishing with a sack and forced fumble. Cole is clearly the top senior inside linebacker prospect for the 2012 NFL Draft and is going to be selected a whole lot earlier than most realize.
With Andrew Datko out for the season with a shoulder injury, Sanders was moved from right tackle to left tackle. While Datko’s injury was unfortunate, it has provided Sanders with an excellent opportunity to impress pro scouts by protecting the blind side down the stretch. Sanders still needs to fill out his frame but he is a great athlete with quick feet who is effective in both the pass and run games. Sanders also has a ton of experience against high-quality experience, which shouldn’t be discounted. Against Boston College, Sanders had one of the best games of his career and was lock down in all facets of the game. Sanders was always viewed as one of this year’s top senior blockers and an early round pick, but if he finishes strong then impresses in an all-star game and workouts it’s not unrealistic to think he could be the first senior offensive tackle off the board next April. Keep a very close eye on Zebrie Sanders in the coming months.
Daniel Herron was one of the Buckeyes who was suspended for the start of the season for his involvement in the tattoo scandal. However, since returning at mid-season Herron has done his best to make up for lost time. The nickname “Boom” is appropriate because Herron has been laying the lumber on opponents, rarely being taken down by just one tackler. Herron still needs work as a pass catcher and blocker but should at least be a solid complimentary back who can excel in short yardage situations at the next level. Herron has done over one hundred yards in all three games he has played this season and is averaging nearly six yards per carry. Against a poor Indiana defense, Herron had a couple of big runs and finished with 141 yards and 1 touchdown on the day. Herron's stock is still in flux but he should be selected at some point in the mid to late rounds.
Weeden will turn 28-years-old this season as a senior for the Cowboys. With age comes experience as an athlete though, both in Minor League Baseball and college football. Weeden had plenty of problems going through progressions and reading defenses as a junior, but he has taken a big step forward this year and is becoming a legitimate pro prospect. Of course having a stud like Justin Blackmon to throw to at wideout doesn’t hurt, but Weeden has looked very poised, has improved his accuracy and is also doing a better job of looking off defenders. Weeden took the reins in a high-profile matchup against Kansas State, throwing for over 500 yards and 4 touchdowns. Weeden’s 78.3% completion percentage was among his best of the season and his draft stock continues to soar. If Weeden were younger he would likely be a Day Two lock, but at this point he shouldn't fall further than the middle rounds.
Chris Rainey has been getting most of the snaps and attention for the Gators this season, but Demps is another extremely fast runner who could come off the board as early as Day Two. One of the best track athletes in the country, Demps must be accounted for at all times due to that world-class speed. With Rainey nursing an injury, Demps was the primary ball carrier for Florida this past week. In a close win over Vanderbilt, Demps handled a heavy workload and toted the ball 23 times for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Demps was also a factor in the receiving game as well. Demps isn’t built to be anything more than a change-of-pace or situational type at the next level but teams will undoubtedly find a way to utilize this versatile playmaker. In the long run Demps will likely settle into a role similar to the one Dexter McCluster plays for the Kansas City Chiefs.
There is no denying Zach Brown’s talent when watching the 6’2, 230 pound linebacker fly all over the field and make plays sideline to sideline. The biggest question with Brown is whether he is a true “football player” or merely a great athlete. Brown has stepped up his play as a senior though, making huge strides fundamentally while taking better angles and showing improved instincts in coverage. Brown can still get neutralized by bigger blockers at times, but first they have to catch the speedy ‘backer. Brown and the Tar Heel defense were the silver lining in a loss to in-state rival North Carolina St. In that contest Brown showcased his range and was seemingly always around the action. Not only did Brown force a fumble on a rushing play but he was also a consistent force in the backfiel, applying pressure and forcing some bad throws. Brown appears to be solidifying himself as a first round pick, especially if he works out as well as expected.
The Bearcats don’t get a lot of attention nationally, but Wolfe is quietly having and outstanding senior campaign. A pro quality pass rusher on the interior of Cincy’s defensive line, Wolfe shows a real knack for getting into the backfield and causing problems for opposing quarterbacks and has often been a difference maker this season. The leverage Wolfe creates presents a big problem for offensive linemen and he routinely gets under their pads and uses a variety of moves to get past them into the backfield. Checking in at 6-5 and 300 pounds, Wolfe also offers some versatility and could play either the 4-3 undertackle position or defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. Wolfe has been a bit inconsistent at times this season but has turned it on in big moments. This past weekend Wolfe recorded two sacks against Pittsburgh, helping his team squeak out a close victory. Wolfe seems to prey on weaker blockers but when his motor is running he’s a force to be reckoned with. Wolfe is still more of a mid-to-late round possibility but could turn out to be a very intriguing option in that range.
The centerpiece of the Hawkeyes potent offense this season has been wideout Marvin McNutt, who is an underrated pro prospect. McNutt nearly entered the draft as a junior but opted to return for his senior campaign. That looks like it was a smart move as McNutt is moving up draft boards around the league. A tall, rangy target, the 6’4 and 215 pound McNutt is a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive backs and a terror in the redzone. McNutt doesn’t have elite speed or acceleration but is able to compensate with a huge wingspan, terrific body control and the ability to outleap corners and high point the ball. This past weekend McNutt led the Hawkeyes to a huge win over Big Ten foe Michigan while putting up yet another 100+ yard performance. At the absolute least McNutt is a solid mid-round option and could even sneak into the top three rounds when all is said and done.
Arkansas has a receiving corp that would make some NFL teams jealous, with no fewer than four legitimate next level prospects at the position. While Greg Childs is often the focus of headlines, Jarius Wright has become one of quarterback Tyler Wilson’s favorite targets and could even be selected ahead of his more highly-touted teammate. Checking in at just 5’10 and 180 pounds, Wright's size may limit his pro potential but he's proven that he knows how to find holes in defenses and can utilize that 4.3 speed to blow past defensive backs. Wright also has sure hands and gets out of his breaks quickly, which is giving SEC defenses fits. Wright is continuing his rise up draft boards, helping the Razorbacks conquer South Carolina with 4 catches for 103 yards and two huge touchdowns. Don't be surprised if Wright is one of the top slot receivers available for the 2012 NFL Draft.
Despite their struggles as a program the Golden Gophers have actually produced a number of excellent pro prospects in recent years, most notably Marion Barber III, Laurence Maroney, Matt Spaeth and Eric Decker. Da’Jon McKnight won’t be an early round pick like those guys, but could be an intriguing option in the later rounds. At 6-3 and 211 pounds with good leaping ability, big hands and a physical style, McKnight is a terrific red zone target and can be extremely difficult to cover. This past weekend McKnight nearly led Minnesota to one of the year’s biggest upsets, finishing with 9 catches for 173 yards and 3 touchdowns in a close loss to a Top 15 team in Michigan St. The success that Decker is having with the Denver Broncos certainly won't hurt McKnight's cause and it would be a shocker if he isn't in a camp next fall as either a late round pick or priority free agent.
Broyles had a record setting junior campaign, catching 131 balls while helping the Sooners win the Big 12 Championship and 2011 Fiesta Bowl. Broyles seriously considered going pro as an underclassmen but ultimately opted to return for his senior season and a shot at a National Championship. Unfortunately for Broyles, he suffered a torn ACL this past weekend and will not only be out for the rest of the college season, but he is in danger of not being able to workout for teams before the NFL Draft. Broyles has sure hands, is more quick than fast and is an outstanding route runner. Broyles doesn't have the ideal size that you would prefer, coming in at only 5’10 and 188 pounds, but he should be effective out of the slot at the next level if he gets a clean bill of health for his professional career. At this point it's hard to envision Broyles being selected before round three and he could even slip out of Day Two all together. However, some team is going to land a very talented player and just may get a steal with Broyles.