I’ll talk to a few NFL scouts throughout the season to get their take on SEC players that are helping or hurting their prospects at the next level. I’ll pass along some of those thoughts to you here.
Here are some of the SEC players that have scouts talking this week.
STOCK RISING
- Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Easily a Top 10 pick. He plays in a pro-style offense in college, and that will translate well in NFL. Has everything you look for at the receiver position. “He is just awesome,” our anonymous NFL scout said.
- Shane Ray, DE, Missouri: He has a high motor. He makes up for a lack of size with toughness and instincts.
- Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida: He announced he’s leaving with coach Will Muschamp and headed for the draft early. He’s explosive, strong, and has developed bunch of rush moves. His height hurts a little but he has position versatility and will likely go first round.
STOCK DECLINING
- Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia: Gurley still may get drafted in the first round. That will depend on an evaluation from the individual team doctors. The good news is that he has a very thick and strong lower body. He is one of the most complete running backs we’ve seen in a while.
- Trey DePriest, LB, Alabama: He’s stiff and can’t really run. He’s a “first and second down” linebacker who can’t cover very well. He is a four-year starter at Alabama and has been productive, but his skill set doesn’t translate well in the NFL.
The Man. The Myth. The Legend.
