CBS Sports projects 6 SEC players as first-round picks in early 2018 NFL Mock Draft
By Kevin Duffey
Published:
While the SEC has absolutely dominated the NFL Draft in recent history, CBS Sports’ early mock thinks that will change in 2018, at least in the first round.
Just this past NFL Draft, 53 SEC players were picked, compared to the next highest conference, the ACC, with 43. Twelve SEC players were first-round picks this past April, and if CBS Sports is close to being correct, the conference could have exactly half of that in 2018.
Only six SEC players are projected as first round picks next spring, with LSU pass rusher Arden Key the only player even projected in the top 10. Of course, this will change based on how the season plays out, but it gives an indication as to the draft-eligible talent in the league heading into the season.
The first three picks are projected to be quarterbacks: USC’s Sam Darnold, UCLA’s Josh Rosen and Wyoming’s Josh Allen.
Here’s the way-too-early mock for 2018 with respect to SEC players:
5. Arden Key, OLB/DE, LSU (Chicago Bears)
12. Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama (Indianapolis Colts)
13. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU (Philadelphia Eagles)
23. Martinas Rankin, OL, Mississippi State (Minnesota Vikings)
29. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama (Baltimore Ravens)
32. Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M (New England Patriots)
You can check out the full mock draft here.
A graduate of the University of Florida and founder of Saturday Down South, Kevin is a college football enthusiast.
