As part of a “16 for ’16” series, NFL.com writer Chase Goodbread, who covers college football and the draft, came up with the most freakish athletes in college football.
Four SEC players made the list, including Goodbread’s pick for No. 1.
- Mississippi State DB Brandon Bryant, No. 11
- Tennessee RB Jalen Hurd, No. 7
- LSU RB Leonard Fournette No. 3
- Texas A&M DE Myles Garrett, No. 1
As for Garrett’s freakish abilities, Goodbread compared him to another big time defensive end from the SEC:
Is there a bigger man in college football who can break 4.5 in the 40-yard dash? Prior to last season, Garrett reportedly did just that, along with a 38 1/2-inch vertical jump and a broad jump of 129 1/2 inches. Whether the Aggies star is draft-eligible in 2017 or 2018, his athleticism and combine testing as a defensive end will generate a scouting buzz on a level with 2014 No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney.
Garrett’s Clowney-like combination of speed, size and athleticism is sure to cause headaches for many SEC West offensive lineman and quarterbacks in 2016. As a sophomore, Garrett recorded 57 total tackles, including 18.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks. Aggies coach Kevin Sumlin has recently said Texas A&M’s defense can be a top-15 unit this fall.
What do you think? Did Goodbread leave out any SEC freaks?
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaign of Fred Taylor.
