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: October 5, 2011
1. 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 found himself in position to make a number of huge plays in the Razorbacks win over Texas A&M this past week, racking up an eye-popping 13 catches for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wright seemed to always be open and routinely found holes between the safeties and linebackers. Wright was also dynamic after the catch, evading defenders and wiggling away from many a potential tackler. Wright currently projects as a mid-round possibility for the '12 NFL Draft and his optimal fit at the next level will most likely come in the slot.
2. Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor
Quarterback Robert Griffin III gets most of the press for the Baylor Bears, but his wideout Kendall Wright may actually be an equal or perhaps even better pro prospect. Wright is on the small side, listed at 5’10 and 190 pounds, but has top-notch quickness to get in and out of his cuts. Wright also shows the ability to identify holes in defensive zones and seems to be the hot route for Griffin on numerous plays. Wright most likely profiles as a slot type in the pros but is talented enough to compete for a starting job. Griffin and Wright have developed into one of the nation's most dynamic pass / catch combos and this past week alone Wright caught 9 passes for 201 yards and 3 touchdowns against Kansas St. Wright is quietly emerging as one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in the senior class and could wind up coming off the board in the second or third round.
3. Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
Future top pick and Heisman Trophy candidate Andrew Luck gets most of the press for Stanford, but tight end Colby Fleener has been an excellent bail out target and red zone threat for the Cardinal. Fleener is a pretty good athlete, with the ability to get off the line and use his quickness to evade linebackers. Fleener's soft hands and wide catch radius are also very impressive and have allowed him score five touchdowns and counting so far this season. Fleener isn’t a top blocker but he certainly isn't a complete liability in the run game either. Fleener was a weapon that couldn’t be stopped againdt UCLA, racking up 78 yards on 4 catches including two touchdowns. One of those scores came on an incredible one handed catch that allowed Stanford to pull away in the game. Fleener is one of the headliners in a weak senior tight end crop and currently profiles as a mid- round pick but could come off the board earlier when all is said and done.
4. Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina
With highly-touted recruit Jadeveon Clowney joining the Gamecocks this year, senior Melvin Ingram seemed to be the forgotten man on defense. A former high school running back who made the move to linebacker and eventually defensive end in college, Ingram’s 6’2 and 276 pound frame offers plenty of positional and schematic versatility. Steve Spurrier has used Ingram as a base defensive end and he is usually moved inside on passing downs to give the pass rush a boost. That ability to play multiple positions should be viewed as a positive for NFL teams and Ingram is soaring up draft boards and he continues to rack up huge numbers and make impact plays. Ingram was nearly unstoppable against Auburn, coming up with 3.5 sacks while also being a major factor against the run. No prospect has helped himself as much as Ingram this year and he could be playing himself into the first round. It's still unclear whether Ingram will project as a lineman or linebacker, but there is no question that the kid is a playmaker.
5. Courtney Upshaw, LB, Alabama
At one point not that long ago Dont’a Hightower was widely considered to be the Crimson Tide's top linebacker and pro prospect. However, after injuries unfortunately derailed Hightower his teammate Courtney Upshaw took center stage and emerged as a big-time playmaker for one of the countries top defenses. Upshaw isn’t an explosive athlete or exceptionally fast but he is always one of the smartest players on the field with top instincts to boot. In a high-profile matchup against Florida this past week, Upshaw had a sack as well as three tackles for a loss and was often creatively used as a blitzer. Upshaw also intercepted a pass while in coverage and returned it for a touchdown, which helped Alabama ultimately pull away from the Gators. Capable of playing either inside or outside linebacker at the next level, at worst Upshaw projects as a Day Two pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
6. 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 also contribute in that capacity at the next level. Cole continues to be a tackle machine for the Wolfpack this year, with another 13 tackles this past week against Georgia Tech. Cole was also utilized in coverage and seems to be improving in that area, which would only enhance his stock. Cole may not be a household name but rest assured that scouts are on his trail and he is most likely going to play in the NFL for a long time.
7. Lavonte David, LB, Nebraska
Lavonte David is starting to generate some momentum in the draftnik community for his leadership on the Cornhuksers defense and bonecrushing hits that he has been laying on opponents. Although David does not have prototypical size for a linebacker at only 6’1 and 220 pounds, he certainly plays much bigger. David's explosion to the ball carrier in the run game and the way he lowers his pads while still taking good angles are just part of what makes him such an excellent player. Because David is a bit of a 'tweener he probably won’t be a top pick in April, you can tell the guy is a pure football player through and through. Nebraska came out flat against Wisconsin last weekend, but David stood out as a pass rusher as well as setting the edge against the run. In that game David had two sacks of Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson and an additional tackle for a loss against the run. Last year David emerged as a true game changer for the Black Shirts and it's just been more of the same thus far as a senior.
8. A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois
The Illini are often overlooked in the Big Ten, but in recent years the program has produced some impressive skill position talent. Brandon Lloyd, Rashard Mendenhall and Arrelious Benn to name just a few. Illinois is currently ranked in the Top 20 and their offense is led by senior wideout A.J. Jenkins. Not only does Jenkins possess ideal size, checking in at 6’0 and 190 pounds, but he also has a large wingspan and huge hands to high point and snatch balls out of the air. Although Jenkins is not yet a technically sound player when it comes to route running and execution, he is tough to cover one-on-one and is starting to draw double teams from opponents as the season goes along. This past week against Northwestern Jenkins put up big numbers, catching 12 passes for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns. Jenkins was even able to split those double teams and utilize double moves to get open. Jenkins was already considered to be an underrated prospect but outings like that could push him even further up NFL draft boards.
9. Winston Guy, S, Kentucky
Winston Guy is a player that many in the country probably know very little about because he play's for a low level SEC program. However, Guy is arguably one of the country's top senior safety prospects due to an impressive blend of size (6’1, 216) and coverage ability. Guy is a reliable tackler, racking up more than 100 stops last year alone, and should at the very least be an impact player on special teams at the next level. Guy has been showcasing his coverage skills early this season though and may be broadening the possibilities for a pro career. Guy was one of the few bright spots for the Wildcats against the #1 ranked L.S.U. Tigers. Guy was playing close to the line again and rarely let a runner or receiver get through his grasp. Guy also had a few run blitzes, which resulted in two tackles for loss for the beefy safety. Guy is still only considered to be a late round possibility at this point, but he is definitely opening some eyes with his play as a senior.
10. Doug Martin, RB, Boise St.
Boise State lost a number of offensive weapons to the NFL Draft this past April, including wideouts Titus Young and Austin Pettis. This year they are relying on the senior leadership of quarterback Kellen Moore and underrated running back Doug Martin. Martin is the type of runner who packs a powerful punch through line while still showcasing the receiving and blocking skills to be a well-rounded player at the next level. Listed at just 5’9, Martin will immediately get knocked for being too short to play the position professionally, but he carries 215 pounds on that compact frame and can be a load for opposing defenses to handle. Martin continues to stand out against high-quality competition. Against Nevada, Martin ran for 126 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 6 yards per carry. Though Martin was not utilized much in the passing game but did showcase that blocking ability and may be the nation's most NFL ready senior runner.
The Not-So-Hot List
Jeff Fuller, WR, Texas A&M
Fuller had a chance to go pro as an underclassmen but opted to return to school and was expected to be one of the nation's top receiving threats. With a terrific quarterback in Ryan Tannehill and two very good running backs, the Aggies offense entered the season with high expectations. However, after two heartbreaking losses in a row some criticism is starting to rain down on Fuller due to a disappointing start. Fuller’s 6’4 and 220 pound frame allows him to high point the ball and outmuscle opposing corners. So far this season Fuller just doesn’t seem to have the same moxie or fight in him. Even though Fuller caught nine balls against Arkansas, he seemed out of rhythm at times and wasn't able to come up big in clutch situations when his team needed him the most. Fuller also seemed to be running the wrong route at times, which caused Tannehill to throw some errant passes. Fuller may be playing himself out of round one if he continues down this path and the Aggies are unable to turn this around.
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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 found himself in position to make a number of huge plays in the Razorbacks win over Texas A&M this past week, racking up an eye-popping 13 catches for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wright seemed to always be open and routinely found holes between the safeties and linebackers. Wright was also dynamic after the catch, evading defenders and wiggling away from many a potential tackler. Wright currently projects as a mid-round possibility for the '12 NFL Draft and his optimal fit at the next level will most likely come in the slot.
Quarterback Robert Griffin III gets most of the press for the Baylor Bears, but his wideout Kendall Wright may actually be an equal or perhaps even better pro prospect. Wright is on the small side, listed at 5’10 and 190 pounds, but has top-notch quickness to get in and out of his cuts. Wright also shows the ability to identify holes in defensive zones and seems to be the hot route for Griffin on numerous plays. Wright most likely profiles as a slot type in the pros but is talented enough to compete for a starting job. Griffin and Wright have developed into one of the nation's most dynamic pass / catch combos and this past week alone Wright caught 9 passes for 201 yards and 3 touchdowns against Kansas St. Wright is quietly emerging as one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in the senior class and could wind up coming off the board in the second or third round.
Future top pick and Heisman Trophy candidate Andrew Luck gets most of the press for Stanford, but tight end Colby Fleener has been an excellent bail out target and red zone threat for the Cardinal. Fleener is a pretty good athlete, with the ability to get off the line and use his quickness to evade linebackers. Fleener's soft hands and wide catch radius are also very impressive and have allowed him score five touchdowns and counting so far this season. Fleener isn’t a top blocker but he certainly isn't a complete liability in the run game either. Fleener was a weapon that couldn’t be stopped againdt UCLA, racking up 78 yards on 4 catches including two touchdowns. One of those scores came on an incredible one handed catch that allowed Stanford to pull away in the game. Fleener is one of the headliners in a weak senior tight end crop and currently profiles as a mid- round pick but could come off the board earlier when all is said and done.
With highly-touted recruit Jadeveon Clowney joining the Gamecocks this year, senior Melvin Ingram seemed to be the forgotten man on defense. A former high school running back who made the move to linebacker and eventually defensive end in college, Ingram’s 6’2 and 276 pound frame offers plenty of positional and schematic versatility. Steve Spurrier has used Ingram as a base defensive end and he is usually moved inside on passing downs to give the pass rush a boost. That ability to play multiple positions should be viewed as a positive for NFL teams and Ingram is soaring up draft boards and he continues to rack up huge numbers and make impact plays. Ingram was nearly unstoppable against Auburn, coming up with 3.5 sacks while also being a major factor against the run. No prospect has helped himself as much as Ingram this year and he could be playing himself into the first round. It's still unclear whether Ingram will project as a lineman or linebacker, but there is no question that the kid is a playmaker.
At one point not that long ago Dont’a Hightower was widely considered to be the Crimson Tide's top linebacker and pro prospect. However, after injuries unfortunately derailed Hightower his teammate Courtney Upshaw took center stage and emerged as a big-time playmaker for one of the countries top defenses. Upshaw isn’t an explosive athlete or exceptionally fast but he is always one of the smartest players on the field with top instincts to boot. In a high-profile matchup against Florida this past week, Upshaw had a sack as well as three tackles for a loss and was often creatively used as a blitzer. Upshaw also intercepted a pass while in coverage and returned it for a touchdown, which helped Alabama ultimately pull away from the Gators. Capable of playing either inside or outside linebacker at the next level, at worst Upshaw projects as a Day Two pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
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 also contribute in that capacity at the next level. Cole continues to be a tackle machine for the Wolfpack this year, with another 13 tackles this past week against Georgia Tech. Cole was also utilized in coverage and seems to be improving in that area, which would only enhance his stock. Cole may not be a household name but rest assured that scouts are on his trail and he is most likely going to play in the NFL for a long time.
Lavonte David is starting to generate some momentum in the draftnik community for his leadership on the Cornhuksers defense and bonecrushing hits that he has been laying on opponents. Although David does not have prototypical size for a linebacker at only 6’1 and 220 pounds, he certainly plays much bigger. David's explosion to the ball carrier in the run game and the way he lowers his pads while still taking good angles are just part of what makes him such an excellent player. Because David is a bit of a 'tweener he probably won’t be a top pick in April, you can tell the guy is a pure football player through and through. Nebraska came out flat against Wisconsin last weekend, but David stood out as a pass rusher as well as setting the edge against the run. In that game David had two sacks of Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson and an additional tackle for a loss against the run. Last year David emerged as a true game changer for the Black Shirts and it's just been more of the same thus far as a senior.
The Illini are often overlooked in the Big Ten, but in recent years the program has produced some impressive skill position talent. Brandon Lloyd, Rashard Mendenhall and Arrelious Benn to name just a few. Illinois is currently ranked in the Top 20 and their offense is led by senior wideout A.J. Jenkins. Not only does Jenkins possess ideal size, checking in at 6’0 and 190 pounds, but he also has a large wingspan and huge hands to high point and snatch balls out of the air. Although Jenkins is not yet a technically sound player when it comes to route running and execution, he is tough to cover one-on-one and is starting to draw double teams from opponents as the season goes along. This past week against Northwestern Jenkins put up big numbers, catching 12 passes for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns. Jenkins was even able to split those double teams and utilize double moves to get open. Jenkins was already considered to be an underrated prospect but outings like that could push him even further up NFL draft boards.
Winston Guy is a player that many in the country probably know very little about because he play's for a low level SEC program. However, Guy is arguably one of the country's top senior safety prospects due to an impressive blend of size (6’1, 216) and coverage ability. Guy is a reliable tackler, racking up more than 100 stops last year alone, and should at the very least be an impact player on special teams at the next level. Guy has been showcasing his coverage skills early this season though and may be broadening the possibilities for a pro career. Guy was one of the few bright spots for the Wildcats against the #1 ranked L.S.U. Tigers. Guy was playing close to the line again and rarely let a runner or receiver get through his grasp. Guy also had a few run blitzes, which resulted in two tackles for loss for the beefy safety. Guy is still only considered to be a late round possibility at this point, but he is definitely opening some eyes with his play as a senior.
Boise State lost a number of offensive weapons to the NFL Draft this past April, including wideouts Titus Young and Austin Pettis. This year they are relying on the senior leadership of quarterback Kellen Moore and underrated running back Doug Martin. Martin is the type of runner who packs a powerful punch through line while still showcasing the receiving and blocking skills to be a well-rounded player at the next level. Listed at just 5’9, Martin will immediately get knocked for being too short to play the position professionally, but he carries 215 pounds on that compact frame and can be a load for opposing defenses to handle. Martin continues to stand out against high-quality competition. Against Nevada, Martin ran for 126 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 6 yards per carry. Though Martin was not utilized much in the passing game but did showcase that blocking ability and may be the nation's most NFL ready senior runner.
Fuller had a chance to go pro as an underclassmen but opted to return to school and was expected to be one of the nation's top receiving threats. With a terrific quarterback in Ryan Tannehill and two very good running backs, the Aggies offense entered the season with high expectations. However, after two heartbreaking losses in a row some criticism is starting to rain down on Fuller due to a disappointing start. Fuller’s 6’4 and 220 pound frame allows him to high point the ball and outmuscle opposing corners. So far this season Fuller just doesn’t seem to have the same moxie or fight in him. Even though Fuller caught nine balls against Arkansas, he seemed out of rhythm at times and wasn't able to come up big in clutch situations when his team needed him the most. Fuller also seemed to be running the wrong route at times, which caused Tannehill to throw some errant passes. Fuller may be playing himself out of round one if he continues down this path and the Aggies are unable to turn this around.