Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III (7) smiles during a football game between Tennessee and Vanderbilt at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.
he 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Outstanding size and extraordinary arm strength with easy ability to drive the ball and make vertical throws.
Effortless deep ball thrower. Can throw the ball 70 yards in the air without having to take any hitch steps.
Strong and tough in the pocket. Made throws from muddied pockets, staying with his technique and footwork.
Showed snaps of controlled and efficient pocket movement keeping his feet underneath him and his eyes downfield.
Physical strength in the pocket to shake off rushers and escape to be in a position to make second reaction plays.
2023 tape showed firm stature in the pocket with a strong base with no wasted movement and compact delivery.
On the 2023 tape, he threw with more pace and touch making the right kind of disciplined throws.
In 2023, he showed pocket movement to climb in response to outside pressure and stay balanced with a firm base.
Moved comfortably and easily, responding to pressure, keeping his eyes focused downfield out of the pocket.
Gives an offense a designed QB run game situationally. Can run zone read, QB draw and gap scheme.
Showed a second reaction movement dimension to his game, Not an explosive athlete but can make plays
Physical strength to stand in the pocket and make throws just as he was getting hit. Strong powerful frame.
Showed consistent accuracy off movement out of the pocket to right and left. Comfortable on the move.
Weaknesses
Tendency at times to rush his mechanics from clean pockets. Footwork and arm motion too fast losing balance.
Needs more experience to better and quicker eliminate and isolate based on coverage. Too focused on the primary.
Consistent tendency to overthrow deep balls to open receivers. Must become more precise with his location.
Two areas Milton must improve based on 2022 tape: pace, touch throws, and more precise ball placement.
2023 – Needs to better understand defense and coverage. Too many throws where coverage did not register.
There will be hard questions — does he have the ability to effectively process routes versus coverage between the numbers?
There will be significant questions about his ability to make timing and anticipation throws. A see-it throw-it passer.
Pace and touch throws are still an issue. He was a fastball thrower who did not take anything off short throws.
Ball placement is still a concern at times, especially for receivers on the move. Must be more consistently precise.
Threw a couple of bad interceptions where he did not process the safety sitting right in the middle of the field.
NFL Transition
Milton will likely be a polarizing prospect as NFL teams evaluate him and envision his transition to the next level. Milton ran one of the purest versions of the Air Raid passing game, with an emphasis on no-huddle, fast-tempo, wide-spread formations and pure progression reads. The QB is not taught to understand the subtleties and nuances of specific defenses and coverages and a high percentage of the throws are pre-determined. There will be significant questions and discussions about whether Milton has or can develop the needed elimination and isolation traits needed to work effectively between the numbers and the hashes.
Can Milton throw with needed anticipation and timing? That question needs to be satisfactorily answered. Teams must determine whether he can throw with any sense of timing and efficiency into tighter zone windows.
Tennessee's passing game featured a high percentage of pre-determined throws and Milton’s 2023 tape showed numerous examples in which he threw to the wrong receiver based on the coverage. But that was the play call, and he threw it. Milton will have to be introduced to NFL passing concepts and progressions. He will also see defensive fronts and coverage structures that will be brand new to him.
Other Notes
Milton came out of Florida as a four-star recruit and spent his first three college seasons at Michigan before transferring to Tennessee for the 2021 season.
In 2022, he showed a lot of pre-determined, half-field reads and throws in Josh Heupel’s pure version of the Air Raid passing game. His 16-yard touchdown pass to Bru McCoy in the 2022 Orange Bowl was a great read and throw versus cover-four.
In 2023, Milton was an exclusive shotgun QB in a passing game that was relatively basic in its concepts and did not ask Milton to make many progression reads. Only 17 percent of Milton’s throws in 2023 came between the hashes.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
5 min read
Johnny Wilson 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Philadelphia Eagles WR
Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Johnny Wilson (14) catches the ball during the warm ups against the North Alabama Lions at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. (Morgan Tencza-USA TODAY Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Rare size for a wide receiver with plus athleticism and movement. Strong size, length, athleticism and hand profile.
Stride length led to plus play speed that was a foundational part of his game, especially with free access off the line of scrimmage.
Worked the middle of the field effectively, with his big body and wide catching radius. Caught the ball well on the move.
Showed short-area quickness to separate at the top of the route stem. Understood how to use his vertical stem.
Defeated press coverage with physicality and a quick burst to get on top of and stack corners on vertical routes.
Strong in two important areas: Red zone and contested catches on fades. Showed great body control and hands to win.
Showed outstanding run-after-catch ability, with competitiveness and physicality to power through contact.
In 2023, he flashed back shoulder and contested catch ability, which must be a foundation of his game at the next level.
Elite catch radius, along with rare height and length profile, made him difficult to cover for corners on the outside.
At times, he showed outstanding short-area quickness in and out of breaks for a receiver of his size.
There were snaps where he beat press man with short-area quickness, then showed the stride length and accelerating speed to win vertically.
WEAKNESSES
Does not possess the desired straight-line speed to run away from coverage on vertical routes and in run-after-catch situations.
Too many drops on routine catches. That must be cleaned up as he continues to develop and mature.
In 2023, his hands continued to be an issue — too many drops on routine catches and let the ball get too close to his body.
Struggled to catch the ball when he had to extend his arms away from his frame. A big concern going forward.
Hands issues really showed up on contested catch opportunities down the field. Let the ball get into his body.
Did not make the kinds of contested catches he needs to make given his outstanding height and hand size.
While smooth for his size, does not possess sudden or explosive movement. Does not change tempo and speed.
At this point, will struggle to separate versus quality NFL man coverage. Must develop more route refinement.
Florida State wide receiver Johnny Wilson (WO38) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
NFL TRANSITION
Wilson is a different evaluation and projection to the NFL based on his rare size, arm length and wingspan for the position. But his traits profile is that of a smaller wide receiver. What immediately stood out with Wilson as you watch all of his pass targets from 2022 and 2023 is that his hands are so inconsistent. This is evident on routine catches and the kinds of contested catches that must be a foundation of his game given his height, length, wingspan and hand size.
There were big time flashes of Wilson making outstanding catches with his long arms extended away from his frame. But there were far too many times he dropped routine throws or did not complete the kinds of contested catches that he needs to given his physical traits.
Ultimately, Wilson did not impose his rare physical traits on corners often enough, resulting in a disappointing contested catch rate. Wilson consistently showed great movement traits, with deceptive quickness, balance and the fluidity of a smaller receiver. That makes him one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in the draft.
The larger question is whether or not teams will see him as a wide receiver. Could some teams even see them as a boundary X? Or will teams view him as more of a specific package receiver who fits a receiving tight-end profile regarding formation alignment and route concepts?
Even though Wilson lined up almost exclusively on the outside the last two seasons at Florida State, there may be more of a Marques Colston feel to his game working closer to the formation as a tighter slot receiver.
OTHER NOTES
Wilson played two years at Florida State after transferring from Arizona State where he began his college career. He came out of California as a four-star recruit and a top 10 wide receiver prospect in the nation.
In 2022, Wilson was the X-receiver in the FSU offense with significant snaps to the boundary on the back side of trips, only 15 of Wilson’s 80 targets came in the slot. Wilson was almost exclusively an outside receiver, except for the snaps that Florida State was in empty formations. On those snaps, Wilson lined up in the slot to twins at times.
In 2023, Wilson was almost exclusively an outside receiver with snaps in the slot when Florida State lined up in empty formations — only 24 snaps in the slot.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Malik Washington 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Miami Dolphins WR
Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Malik Washington (4) scores a touchdown as Duke Blue Devils safety Jaylen Stinson (2) chases during the first quarter at Scott Stadium. (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Naturally quick route runner with light, active, sudden feet both through and at top of stem to create separation.
Low center of gravity and compact build resulted in sharp, decisive cuts without losing quickness or speed.
High-level athleticism re: balance and body control to contort his body.
Made catches away from frame with soft yet strong hands. Despite lacking length, had expansive catch radius.
Outstanding focus and concentration on throws where he knew that there was heavy traffic and that contact was likely.
Ran seams and slot fades making tough vertical catches. Consistently extended beyond his frame. Late hands
Short-area quickness and initial burst to defeat press coverage from the slot on quick-timing routes like slants.
Smooth, efficient run after catch with strong combination of lateral agility, contact balance and physicality.
WEAKNESSES
Obvious concern is lack of length. Will that be an issue, or will smart deployment re: formation-motion limit it?
Did not see many routes where he had to work against tight man coverage or had his vertical stem disrupted.
Will need to work on route-running detail and nuance to defeat quality man coverage he will face in the NFL.
Does not possess elite, top-end speed to be true vertical weapon, but he can be off motion with free access.
Not the kind of receiver who will make tough contested catches vs. tight coverage or highpoint the ball.
Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Malik Washington (4) catches a touchdown pass as Duke Blue Devils nose tackle Brandon Johnson (3) defends during the third quarter at Scott Stadium. (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)
NFL TRANSITION
Washington is a fun receiver to watch with the explosiveness he plays with and the run-after-catch traits that make it difficult for defenses to get him to the ground. He's a short, compactly built receiver who has both outstanding route quickness and run-after-catch ability. But what constantly stands out is his focus and hands almost always making catches away from his frame with elite body control to adjust and contort and outstanding ball tracking skills. Despite his size, he has the mental and physical toughness to catch through contact and in traffic when contact is imminent.
The other trait that showed up throughout his tape was his ability — despite his size and shorter arms — to maximize his catch radius and make the kinds of catches you would not expect to see from a 5-foot-8 ½ receiver with just over 30-inch arms.
While there are clear limitations to Washington’s game, the evolution of the NFL passing game — with much more quick game, motion, stack and bunch formations and reduced splits — will allow him free access into his routes. That will mitigate his smaller size and allow him to be a factor. Depending on the team and overall scheme, he could become a volume target.
Washington is an explosive weapon with the ball in his hands, and the team that drafts him will know and understand that. That team's pass offense will already be structured to allow a player such as Washington to be a factor.
He is not the vertical dimension that Jaylen Waddle is (similar height/weight measurables) and therefore cannot regulate and take the top off the defense in the same way. But Washington’s natural quickness and explosiveness and run-after-catch ability demands you get the ball in his hands.
OTHER NOTES
Washington played his final college season at Virginia after spending his first four seasons at Northwestern. He had an outstanding year with the Cavaliers: 110-1426-13-9 TD. Washington originally came out of Georgia as a 3-star recruit.
Washington was predominantly a slot receiver in Virginia’s offense in 2023 with 110 of his 142 targets coming inside and 88 of his 110 receptions for 1,076 yards and six touchdowns. Washington was featured at times as the motion receiver in Virginia’s offense and was also used at times on jet sweeps — he ran through North Carolina State LB Payton Wilson on a 59-yard tunnel screen reception.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Sataoa Laumea NFL Draft 2024: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Seattle Seahawks OL
Utah Utes offensive lineman Sataoa Laumea (78) against the Southern California Trojans in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is here, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Showed core and lower body strength to anchor well in pass protection. Able to stalemate speed-to-power.
Had 45-degree and vertical sets with efficient kick slide, active hands and lateral movement to seal the edge.
In pass protection, showed a stiff jarring with heavy hands early in his pass set that controlled the pass rusher.
Showed good feel in pass protection for resetting hands to maintain leverage and control of the pass rusher.
Came off the ball in the run game with explosive quickness and strong heavy hands to create immediate displacement.
Efficient as a base and drive blocker in the run game. Kept his feet moving on contact, showing balance to sustain.
Functional athleticism and mobility to both reach second-level landmarks and climb off first-level combo blocks.
Showed good balance and body control reacting to gap shooters and the natural power to drive them out of the point of attack.
Played much more of a power game than an athletic movement game, and that profiles much better at offensive guard.
WEAKNESSES:
His arm length is a definite concern at right tackle. And his stocky body frame and build is more so that of an offensive guard than a right tackle.
Lacks the needed lateral movement and range to be an effective 1-on-1 pass protector at right tackle. Too stiff in his core.
Often too late and too wide with hands in pass protection, allowing pass rusher to get inside and drive him back.
Lack of higher level and desired lateral agility and range showed at times in pass protection and run blocking.
Utah offensive lineman Sataoa Laumea (OL42) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
NFL TRANSITION:
Laumea comes out of Utah with extensive experience at both right guard and right tackle. My sense is that the lack of overall length in his frame — particularly his shorter-than-desired arm length for an offensive tackle — will necessitate a transition to right guard at the next level.
He has a stout, compactly built frame with plus athletic movement and strong, heavy hands that he deploys actively and effectively — both as a drive and base blocker in the run game and in pass protection, where he strikes with force and power early in his pass sets.
Laumea has the traits to develop into a starting offensive guard at the next level. But he has started a lot of games in his college career, and some of his deficiencies and flaws remain. So not only will he need to be coached, but he must apply that coaching to his play on the field.
Overall, the more I watched of Laumea, the more I believe he can be an effective starter. But he is very much a projection based on the inconsistent execution in his 2023 tape.
OTHER NOTES:
Laumea came out of California as a highly regarded 4-star recruit, and he became a starter during his freshman season at Utah. In 2021 and 2022, Laumea started at right guard before moving to right tackle for the 2023 season. He finished his college career with 44 consecutive starts — with 19 coming at right guard and 25 at right tackle.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Logan Lee 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Pittsburgh Steelers DT
Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman Logan Lee (85) hits Iowa State Cyclones quarterback Rocco Becht (3) during the first quarter at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Aligned in multiple defensive tackle positions in 2022. Showed strong hands as two-gapper to control and displace interior offensive linemen.
Game is built on a six- to 10-inch short area strength with excellent arm extension. Has a strong core and lower half to lock out.
Had run game snaps where he defeated front-side leverage blocks with outside arm extension folding over offensive linemen.
His 2022 tape showed run game snaps where he physically dominated offensive linemen with six- to 10-inch strength and hand usage.
In run game snaps, he played off contact, then showed mobility down the line of scrimmage outside the box to make a play.
Had pass rush snaps where he used his hands effectively to play off contact. Featured arm-over move to clear the offensive guard.
His 2023 tape showed strong powerful hands both in the run game and as a pass rusher. Had strength to control and displace offensive linemen.
Showed upper body and arm strength extension to lock out offensive linemen and make plays in the run game at the point of attack.
Had run game snaps where he controlled and displaced offensive linemen at the point of attack and made tackles — the strength of his game.
When he came off the ball low with hands inside, he controlled interior offensive linemen and made plays in the run game.
Again flashed arm-over move as inside pass rusher, showing balance and body control to flatten rush path.
Flashed pass rush, showing effective hand use and enough lateral quickness to play off contact and win.
WEAKNESSES
Given how he needs to play to be effective — especially in the run game — his arm length will be seen as a negative.
Had a tendency at times to come off the ball a little too high, losing both quickness and strength. Can get stuck at the point of attack.
Had too many run-game snaps where he was washed out of the point of attack both by individual blocks and double teams.
Must get better playing against double teams in the run game — needs to do a better job of splitting and defeating them.
Must continue to develop hand usage and more strength; needs power to better defeat contact as inside pass rusher.
2023 tape showed he was too high and upright at times coming off the ball, which negatively affected his quickness and power.
Has no twitch or suddenness to his movement. Must rely on hand usage and strength-power as his foundation.
Not a true 1-gap defensive tackle. Does not possess the burst and explosiveness off the ball to challenge gaps and penetrate.
Does not possess the quickness and burst off the ball to be 3-technique or 4i pass rusher in sub defense fronts.
May lack the needed short-area and confined-space quickness to play off blocks consistently and effectively.
Iowa defensive lineman Logan Lee (DL15) works out during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
NFL TRANSITION
In some ways, Lee is an old-school defensive tackle whose game is built on strength and power, although his athletic testing numbers suggest there might be more athleticism in his body than his tape showed. Overall, Lee’s tape showed a workmanlike, rotational defensive tackle without any special traits who grinded on every snap, flashing the point-of-attack strength to control and displace interior offensive linemen and make plays in the run game.
In his tape, I saw little burst or explosiveness off the ball, but I did see much more of a strength profile where Lee was able, at times, to press and extend and lock out offensive linemen, creating enough separation to play off the block and find the ball.
At this point entering the NFL, Lee does not bring much pass rush, although he did show an arm-over move that proved effective at times with the balance and body control to close with some burst to the quarterback. The question with Lee is whether he can develop with coaching and experience into a more meaningful pass rusher or whether he'll make the transition solely as a rotational base defense run defender who will project as a 12-20-snap-a-game defensive tackle playing on first down and selected other down-and-distance situations.
The more I watched Lee, the more I saw just enough flashes with his combination of strong hands and more-than-functional play strength to believe he could develop into an important piece in the 7-8 DL personnel deployments that have become more prevalent in the NFL. But there is no question he will need to generate more explosiveness off the ball, especially in the run game.
Lee’s traits will project better in odd fronts and likely in more 5-2 alignments, as opposed to 4-3 even fronts.
The bottom line with Lee is that he is a grinder who, on occasion, flashed the needed traits to be effective as both a run defender and inside pass rusher. But I did not see enough of those plays. He lacks the kind of explosiveness you’d like to see, but his athletic testing numbers suggest there might be more there as he develops with coaching and maturity.
He's a classic Day 3 pick with physical traits who has extensive college experience in a Power 5 conference.
OTHER NOTES
Lee played four years at Iowa after coming out of high school in Illinois as a defensive tackle and tight end in addition to being a state wrestling champion. He was a 4-star recruit as a tight end, but Iowa made him an exclusive defensive tackle.
In 2022, Lee lined up on the right side of the defensive front on almost every snap playing 3-technique and working back inside to 1-technique. Lee was used as the penetrator in T/E stunt concepts (he was rarely used as the looper). The 2022 game against Wisconsin was a strong snapshot of Lee at his best both as a run defender and inside pass rusher — he showed a desirable combination of strength and short-area quickness; it was a dominant effort.
In 2023, Lee again lined up almost exclusively on the right side of the defensive front playing multiple defensive tackle positions including 3-technique in third-down situations.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Walter Rouse 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Minnesota Vikings OT
Oklahoma offensive lineman Walter Rouse (OL63) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Some strong reps in pass protection with good knee bend and balance, firm base and well-timed hand strikes.
Showed lower body strength and technique to re-anchor after initially getting pushed back by speed-to-power.
Consistently showed excellent awareness and accelerated vision when recognizing and reacting to stunts/pressures.
Came off the ball low with leverage in the run game. Able to generate and torque through his core and hips.
Did a good job as a side seal/cut blocker in the zone run game. Quick feet with good balance and body control.
In 2023, showed independent arm technique to control edge rushers early in the down. Forced a wider edge.
Strong pass protection reps with efficient, clean slide and knee bend. Balance with a firm base and hands inside.
Showed strength and power to anchor in pass protection vs. speed-to-power. Stayed straight in his cylinder.
Effective as a down blocker in the run game with good movement off the ball; generates strength and power.
At his best in both run blocking and pass protection when he engaged early in the down and used his strength.
WEAKNESSES
Not a higher-level athlete for the offensive tackle position. At times, he looked a little labored in kick slide in his vertical pass set.
Tendency to reach and lunge when immediately challenged/stressed on high side. Balance/body control issues.
May not have the requisite athleticism to vertical set and effectively pass protect vs. quality edge pass rushers.
Consistently showed a tendency to punch with hands too early in pass set, often resulting in bending and lunging.
Lateral movement was, at times, labored. Some heaviness to foot movement. Struggled to redirect with efficiency.
Balance and body control issues at the top of the arc. Could not stop his body to redirect vs. secondary moves.
Looked a little heavy-footed and stiff working to the second level in the run game. Tight-hipped, lacking fluidity.
Oklahoma's Jovantae Barnes (2) carries the ball as Walter Rouse (75) blocks Arkansas State's Gavin Potter (13) during a college football game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
NFL TRANSITION
Rouse started 52 games at left tackle in his college career, but he is not likely to transition to the NFL at that position, given his traits profile. Rouse had snapshots of strong pass protection reps with an efficient kick slide, good knee bend and balance, and he keeps his hands inside.
But overall, he lacks the athleticism and fluidity in his lower half to be an effective 1-on-1 pass protector vs. quality rushers, with his only means of being successful to engage early in the down by using his strong hands and overall strength and minimizing his weakness of lateral range and reactive athleticism.
Rouse lacked the requisite foot quickness and lateral range to be consistently effective in 45 degree and vertical pass sets, and there were too many snaps where he stopped his feet in response to pass rush quickness and then bent at the waist to compensate.
Rouse had strong snaps as a run blocker where he could come off the ball with leverage and generate power and force on contact, and that was especially the case as a down blocker on the play side in the gap scheme run game. Overall, Rouse's 2023 tape showed a player who cannot make the transition to the NFL at the offensive tackle position, and my sense is the only position he could play at the next level would be center.
OTHER NOTES
Rouse came out of Washington, D.C., as a four-star recruit and finished his Stanford career as a four-year starter at left tackle. He transferred to Oklahoma for his fifth-year graduate season in 2023. Rouse started 52 games at left tackle in his college career, including all 13 at Oklahoma in 2023.
In 2021, Rouse dominated Kayvon Thibodeaux in their 1-on-1 pass protection snaps. Thibodeaux could not beat Rouse with speed-to-power and could not get the edge on Rouse. Rouse clearly improved in pass protection as the season progressed. He looked more comfortable with his movement and the coordination between his lower and upper halves.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
1 min read
2024 NFL Draft: Grades, Analysis For Every Round 6, 7 Pick
Oklahoma offensive lineman Walter Rouse runs the 40-yard dash during the University of Oklahoma (OU) Sooners Pro Day in Norman, Okla., Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
The 2024 NFL Draft is here, and with it comes new hope for many NFL teams. However, not every pick is a home-run selection.
As Day 3 unfolds, we'll be live-grading every pick, providing you with instant analysis and takeaways throughout the day. Which teams are getting better, and which ones are making mistakes?
177. Minnesota Vikings: Walter Rouse, OT, Oklahoma
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 311 pounds
Strengths
Lower body strength
Run game landmarking
Awareness
Weaknesses
Clunky feet
Inconsistent hand placement
Awkward athlete
Team Fit: Walter Rouse fell further than expected but only projects to be a backup swing tackle either way. He's more of a road-grader than an effective pass-blocker.
Grade: C
178. Pittsburgh Steelers: Logan Lee, IDL, Iowa
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 281 pounds
Strengths
Powerful frame
Fast, effective hands
Versatility
Weaknesses
Pad level
Consistent disruption
Team Fit: Logan Lee was overlooked throughout the draft process but he's a capable body who can play early on. He's stout enough at the point of attack to earn a rotational spot.
Grade: B
Utah Utes offensive lineman Sataoa Laumea (78) against the Southern California Trojans in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
179. Seattle Seahawks: Sataoa Laumea, IOL, Utah
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 319 pounds
Strengths
Strength
Fluidity
Pad level
Weaknesses
Waist bender
Speed
Consistency
Team Fit: Sataoa Laumea is a good candidate to kick inside to guard and become a starter in the NFL. He has to stay balanced more often, but he otherwise has the traits and experience to compete to be an average starter.
Grade: A
180. New England Patriots: Marcellas Dial, CB, South Carolina
Height: 6-foot-0
Weight: 190 pounds
Strengths
Speed
Transition
Weaknesses
Stiffness
Agility
Team Fit: Marcellas Dial has the speed, burst, and transition ability to find a defensive role early at the next level, but he'll need to overcome sticky hips, limited COD ability, and outside-only ability at his size.
Grade: D
181. Los Angeles Chargers: Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy
Height: 5-foot-8
Weight: 213 pounds
Strengths
Toughness
Elusiveness
Weaknesses
Pass protection
Explosiveness
Team Fit: Vidal is a tough running back who has displayed vision and patience as a high-volume collegiate workhorse. However, his lack of top-end speed, big-play ability, and third-down appeal will leave him fighting for an NFL roster spot.
Grade: D
Oct 28, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA;Tulane Green Wave wide receiver Jha'Quan Jackson (4) breaks a tackle against Rice Owls defensive back AJ Stephens (25) in the first half at Rice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Team Fit: Destined to be a slot specialist, Jha'Quan Jackson was a star at the Senior Bowl. He's super quick and could make an impact on isolation routes and punt returns.
Grade: C+
183. New York Giants: Darius Muasau, LB UCLA
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 225 pounds
Strengths
Effort
Blitzing ability
Weaknesses
Coverage potential
Power
Team Fit: Darius Muasau is an undersized Mike linebacker who lacks an elite trait and has tight hips, but his pursuit effort and plus blitz ability should allow him to compete for an NFL roster spot.
Grade: C-
184. Miami Dolphins: Malik Washington, WR, Virginia
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 191 pounds
Strengths
Pure speed
Field vision
Reliable hands
Weaknesses
Route precision
Strength through contact
Team Fit: Miami desperately needed competition in the receiver room, and Malik Washington fell way too far, considering his skill set. He could be Miami's WR3 this fall.
Grade: B
185. Philadelphia Eagles: Johnny Wilson, WR, Florida State
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 231 pounds
Strengths
Massive frame and catch radius
Blocking
Quickness for size
Weaknesses
Concentration drops
Separation
Team Fit: Why did Johnny Wilson fall so far? We don't know, but the Eagles wisely add the gigantic playmaker. He should do well against the zone-heavy defenses Philadelphia sees.
Grade: B
186. Atlanta Falcons: Jase McClellan, RB, Alabama
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 221 pounds
Strengths
Patience
Ball security
Contact balance
Weaknesses
Burst
Pass pro consistency
Upside
Team Fit: McClellan is a good player who lacks great traits and brings an immediate skill set to his new team. He won't give many big plays, but he's reliable.
Grade: C
187. Atlanta Falcons: Casey Washington, WR, Illinois
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 201 pounds
Strengths
Big catch radius
Sure-handed
Flexibility through routes
Weaknesses
Change of direction
Versatility
Team Fit: Casey Washington was barely on the radar of our draft team, so it's shocking he was selected. He'll fight for a roster spot.
Grade: F
188. Houston Texans: Jamal Hill, LB Oregon
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 216 pounds
Strengths
Hard hitter
Speed
Weaknesses
Inexperienced
Stiff in coverage
Team Fit: Moving from safety to linebacker fits Hill's play style, but his chances of making a roster are low.
Grade: D
LSU Tigers defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo (18) reacts after tackling Auburn Tigers quarterback Payton Thorne (1) during the second quarter at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-USA TODAY Sports
189. Detroit Lions: Mekhi Wingo, IDL, LSU
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 284 pounds
Strengths
Terrific first step
Surprising power
Pad level
Weaknesses
Short arms and light frame
Underdeveloped counter moves
Team Fit: Mekhi Wingo should've been off the board three rounds earlier. Detroit needs an impact pass-rusher, and Wingo can give them help immediately.
Grade: A-
190. Philadelphia Eagles: Dylan Mcmahon, Iol, NC State
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 299 pounds
Strengths
Athleticism
Footwork
Weaknesses
Versatility
Power
Maximizing length
Team Fit: Dylan McMahon is an athletic center who uses footwork and awareness to excel on the interior, but a lack of size, length, strength, and power make him a backup one-position player at the next level.
Grade: C-
191. Arizona Cardinals: Tejhuan Palmer, WR, UAB
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 208 pounds
Strengths
Size
Deep speed
Weaknesses
Experience
Separation
Drops
Team Fit: Tejhuan Palmer has the size and straight-line speed NFL teams look for in an outside receiver, but his concentration drops, struggles to separate, and lack of a dominant skill will limit his NFL appeal.
Grade: C-
192. Seattle Seahawks: DJ James, CB, Auburn
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 175 pounds
Strengths
Great speed
Play recognition
Fluid hips
Weaknesses
Aggressiveness
Inefficient transitions
Tackling
Team Fit: Great value for Seattle as they add a versatile, fluid corner who was once considered a potential top-50 pick. DJ James will have to earn a roster spot but he has the traits to get there.
Grade: B
Nov 18, 2023; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joe Milton (7) drops back to pass the ball against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
193. New England Patriots: Joe Milton III, QB, Tennessee
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 235 pounds
Strengths
Amazing arm strength
Mobility
Size
Weaknesses
Zero touch
Inconsistent footwork
Forces decisions
Team Fit: Unless Joe Milton moves to tight end, he doesn't have much of an NFL future.
Team Fit: Tanner McLachlan is a capable, yet unspectacular depth tight end who can be a sufficient all-around contributor.
Grade: C+
195. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ryan Watts, DB, Texas
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 203 pounds
Strengths
Experience
Run support
Physicality
Weaknesses
Agility
Deep speed
Team Fit: Ryan Watts is a big, physical corner who projects best as a safety due to his strong run support and punishing demeanor, but also a lack of deep speed, ball skills, and hip fluidity.
Grade: C-
Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Clemson defensive lineman Tyler Davis (DL03) works out during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
196. Los Angeles Rams: Tyler Davis, IDL, Clemson
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 301 pounds
Strengths
Quick first step
Great hand usage
Pass-rush potential
Weaknesses
Consistency
Balance
Team Fit: Tyler Davis can learn among a host of talented, young linemen in LA. He's a great value who has pass-rush upside.
Grade: B
197. Atlanta Falcons: Zion Louge, IDL, Georgia
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 314 pounds
Strengths
Strength
Run defense
Weaknesses
Pass rush upside
Pad level
Team Fit: Zion Logue has the size, strength, and awareness to be a solid rotational defensive lineman at the next level, but he needs to work on his body control and pass rush ability to reach his full potential.
Grade: C-
198. Miami Dolphins: Patrick McMorris, S, Cal
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 207 pounds
Strengths
Pursuit angles
Production
Weaknesses
Recognition
Agility
Team Fit: A fairly limited athlete with good production, Patrick McMorris is going into a good situation where Miami plays a lot of two-high looks.
Grade: C
199. New Orleans Saints: Khristian Boyd, IDL, Northern Iowa
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 325 pounds
Strengths
Quick first step
Hand usage
Upper body strength
Weaknesses
Anchor
Pad level
Finishing
Team Fit: A true nose tackle, Khristian Boyd is more of a pass-rusher than a block eater. He'll have the chance to make the final roster if his pad level improves.
Grade: C
Auburn Tigers running back Tank Bigsby (4) dives on his own fumble as Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive tackle Jaden Crumedy (94) also goes for the ball during the second quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
200. Carolina Panthers: Jaden Crumedy, IDL, Mississippi State
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 301 pounds
Strengths
Awareness
Quickness
Upper body strength
Weaknesses
Pass-rush potential
Agility
Team Fit: Jaden Crumedy has a decent blend of athleticism and size and can be a scheme-versatile run defender, but his lack of pass-rush ability will limit his overall impact as a three-down interior defender.
Grade: C+
201. Indianapolis Colts: Micah Abraham, CB, Marshall
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 180 pounds
Strengths
Speed
Physicality
Weaknesses
Mirror ability
Agility
Team Fit: Micah Abraham is fit to be in the slot, but Indianapolis will only roster him in the case of injuries. He's an average athlete, at best.
Grade: D
202. Green Bay Packers: Travis Glover, OT, Georgia State
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 308 pounds
Strengths
Versatility
Good anchor
Natural length
Weaknesses
Hand usage
Agility
Team Fit: The Packers have a type, and Travis Glover fits. He projects as a high-quality backup. He should've been off the board two rounds prior.
Grade: B
Jan 1, 2024; Pasadena, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide place kicker Will Reichard (16) reacts after a field goal against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half in the 2024 Rose Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
203. Minnesota Vikings: Will Reichard, K, Alabama
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 187 pounds
Strengths
Experience
Consistency
Weaknesses
Kick power
Team Fit: Will Reichard is no stranger to high-pressure moments. He's had a mixed bag of success, but he was worth drafting.
Grade: C
204. Buffalo Bills: Tylan Grable, OT, UCF
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 306 pounds
Strengths
Athletic
Good hand technique
Spatial awareness
Weaknesses
Sustaining blocks
Messy footwork
Body control
Team Fit: Tylan Grable is a project with the athletic profile to develop into a swing tackle. He's a better developmental project than a few of the names who went before him.
Grade: C+
Nov 25, 2023; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Jawhar Jordan (25) runs the ball against Kentucky Wildcats linebacker Trevin Wallace (32) during the first quarter at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Team Fit: Shifty and fast, Jawhar Jordan can thrive on stretch zone plays where he can make one cut and dash upfield. His lack of power as a runner and blocker is concerning for third-down value. He's a nice replacement for Devin Singletary.
Grade: B
206. Cleveland Browns: Nathaniel Watson, LB, Mississippi State
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 233 pounds
Strengths
Tackling efficiency
Blitzing
Range
Weaknesses
Coverage talent
Agility
Team Fit: The Browns spent next to nothing to land a true MIKE who can play two downs. They did well to not overspend on a capable run defender next to JOK.
Grade: B
207. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Jerrell, OT, Findlay
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 311 pounds
Strengths
Athleticism
Length
Weaknesses
Experience
Wide hands
Team Fit: Michael Jerrell had a UDFA profile, but this is a gamble on athleticism. Seattle will likely stash him on the practice squad.
Grade: C
208. Las Vegas Raiders: Dylan Laube, RB, New Hampshire
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 206 pounds
Strengths
Major receiving threat
Efficient
Durable
Weaknesses
Power
Length
Team Fit: A natural fit as a third-down back who can create mismatches in space against linebackers and safeties. Dylan Laube can earn snaps in 2024.
Grade: B
209. Los Angeles Rams: Joshua Karty, K, Stanford
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 207 pounds
Strengths
Leg strength
Consistency
Weaknesses
Can overcorrect from hash mark
Team Fit: The Rams were considered likely to take a kicker. Joshua Karty was higher rated than Reichard for us.
Grade: B-
210. Detroit Lions: Christian Mahagony, IOl, Boston College
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 314 pounds
Strengths
Football IQ
Generating movement
Combo blocking
Weaknesses
Tight lower body
Pad level
Maximizing length
Team Fit: Christian Mahogany fell due to injury concerns from two years ago, but he should've gone much sooner, regardless. He's a good player, and Detroit might've landed a future starter.
Grade: A
211. Kansas City Chiefs: Kamal Hadden, CB, Tennessee
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 196 pounds
Strengths
Ball skills
Strength
Length and athleticism
Weaknesses
Fluidity
Zone comfort
Tackling
Team Fit: He has good tools worth investing in, so he could prove to be a solid value as a rotational player. Kansas City knows what to look for in these late-rounders.
Team Fit: The former All-SEC kicker was accurate on field goals and extra points, but his leg strength beyond 50 is a concern.
Grade: C-
Texas Longhorns wide receiver Jordan Whittington (13) breaks a tackle by Washington linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio (5) during the Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff semifinals game at the Caesars Superdome on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
213. Los Angeles Rams: Jordan Whittington, WR, Texas
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 205 pounds
Strengths
Physicality
Reliable hands
Weaknesses
Separation
Suddenness
Versatility
Team Fit: A limited athlete who finds ways to produce, Jordan Whittington projects as a special teams contributor more than a receiving option.
Team Fit: The Bengals identify a potential stud in Cedric Johnson. He won't play right away, but his frame and athleticism pop off the film.
Grade: B
215. San Francisco 49ers: Jarrett Kingston, IOL, USC
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 306 pounds
Strengths
Standout athlete
Versatility
Weaknesses
Balance
Anchor
Hand usage
Team Fit: Jarrett Kingston is an athletic guard prospect who lacks the length, strength, and ability to redirect rushers that teams look for and could find himself fighting for a roster spot.
Grade: D
216. Dallas Cowboys: Ryan Flournoy, WR, SE Missouri State
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 202 pounds
Strengths
Competitiveness
Hands
Weaknesses
Explosiveness
Separation
Team Fit: Ryan Flournoy is a sure-handed receiver with tenacity and the contested catch ability to be a solid wide receiver at the next level, but his separation ability and lack of chunk plays will likely limit his impact to a depth role.
Grade: D+
Oct 7, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive linemen Beaux Limmer (55) gives direction prior to the snap during the second half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
217. Los Angeles Rams: Beaux Limmer, IOL, Arkansas
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 302 pounds
Strengths
Sheer strength
Landmarking in run game
Weaknesses
Limited length
Quickness
Team Fit: Likely a backup center in the NFL, Beaux Limmer fits what the Rams want to do perfectly.
Grade: C+
218. Baltimore Ravens: Devin Leary, QB, Kentucky
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 215 pounds
Strengths
Arm strength
Toughness
Weaknesses
Accuracy
Footwork
Field vision
Team Fit: A bit of an odd fit to take a quarterback lacking accuracy and plus mobility. Devin Leary is, at best, a third-strong option.
Grade: D
219. Buffalo Bills: Daequan Hardy, DB, Penn State
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 179 pounds
Strengths
Competitive
Agility
Recognition
Weaknesses
Length
Deep speed
Team Fit: A great slot corner, Daequan Hardy fits into Buffalo's culture. He'll have to be a special teams ace to make the final roster in 2024, though.
Grade: C+
220. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Elijah Klien, OL, UTEP
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 306 pounds
Strengths
Versatility
Length
Experience
Weaknesses
Tight hips
Hand placement and quickness
Team Fit: Elijah Klein was a deep sleeper despite his experience, and the Buccaneers likely nabbed a quality backup.
Grade: C+
221. Buffalo Bills: Travis Clayton, OT, England
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 310 pounds
Strengths
Size
Athleticism
Weaknesses
Experience
Team Fit: A former rugby player, Travis Clayton is a project who will take time to develop on the practice squad.
Grade: D
222. Washington Commanders: Javonte Jean-Baptiste, EDGE, Notre Dame
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 239 pounds
Strengths
Length
Motor
Strength
Weaknesses
Stiff hips
Counter moves
Upside
Team Fit: Javonte Jean-Baptiste is a long edge rusher with good power and can set the edge against the run, but he lacks the first-step explosion to be a difference-maker as a pass rusher.
Grade: C+
223. Las Vegas Raiders: Trey Taylor, S, Air Force
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 213 pounds
Strengths:
Production
Ball skills
Fluidity
Weaknesses:
Quickness
Overpursuing
Roams
Team Fit: Great production and skill will help Trey Taylor stick in the NFL for years to come. He's not the most athletic player, but he's solid and should compete for playing time in Vegas.
Team Fit: Daijahn Anthony has the man coverage skills to be a versatile backup in a secondary room, but he must improve his tackling technique and pursuit angles at the next level.
Grade: C
Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver Brenden Rice (2) catches a touchdown during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports
225. Los Angeles Chargers: Brenden Rice, USC, WR
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 208 pounds
Strengths
Competitive at catch point
Deep speed
Flexibility through routes
Weaknesses
Consistency
Separation
Quickness and acceleration
Team Fit: Brenden Rice looks the part and has the lineage but doesn't consistently play to his size, speed, or namesake. He has to refine his routes better and finish stronger at the catch point.
Grade: C+
226. Arizona Cardinals: Jaden Davis, CB, Miami
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 187 pounds
Strengths
Speed
Tackling
Physicality
Weaknesses
Length
Agility
Team Fit: Jaden Davis has limited size and speed, so he'll compete to be a nickel option in Arizona.
Grade: D
Mar 1, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; South Dakota defensive back Myles Harden (DB13) works out during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
227. Cleveland Browns: Myles Harden, CB, South Dakota
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 195 pounds
Strengths
Agility
Mirror ability
Physicality
Weaknesses
Length
Deep speed
Team Fit: Myles Harden's physicality is great for special teams, and his ability to help in run support can lead to making a roster.
Grade: C
228. Baltimore Ravens: Nick Samac, IOL, Michigan State
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 307 pounds
Strengths
Strength
Mauler mindset
Weaknesses
Pass blocking
Inconsistent hand usage
Team Fit: Nick Samac is an interior mauler who delivers an effective initial punch and plays through the whistle, but his struggles with technique and body control in the passing game limit his potential effectiveness as a full-time starter in the middle.
Grade: C
229. Las Vegas Raiders: M.J. Devonshire, CB, Pittsburgh
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 186 pounds
Strengths
Speed
Ball skills
Press coverage
Weaknesses
Stiff hips
Gets grabby
Team Fit: M.J. Devonshire looks like a slot corner but doesn't play like one. He'll have to get more confident in coverage to avoid flags and stay on the field.
Grade: C-
230. Minnesota Vikings: Michael Jurgens, IOL, Nebraska
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 311 pounds
Strengths
Experience
Smooth athlete
Agility
Weaknesses
Versatility
Achor
Team Fit: Lacking strength, Michael Jurgens is purely a backup center in the NFL. He's experienced, though, and can step in if needed to.
Grade: C-
Sep 16, 2023; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Florida State Seminoles tight end Jaheim Bell (6) breaks a tackle by Boston College Eagles defensive back John Pupel (35) and runs for a touchdown during the first half at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
231. New England Patriots: Jahiem Bell, TE, Florida State
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 241 pounds
Strengths
Quickness
Toughness at the catch point
Versatility
Weaknesses
Inline blocking
Route running experience
Team Fit: Well-equipped to thrive in a versatile role that gets him into space, Jahiem Bell can be a difference-maker if included in the gameplan. He's a great athlete for his size.
Grade: B+
232. Minnesota Vikings: Levi Drake Rodriguez, DT, TMAC
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 300 pounds
Strengths
Quickness
Raw strength
Pass-rush potential
Weaknesses
Pad level
Discipline
Team Fit: Levi Drake Rodriguez is a high-upside, gap-shooting defensive tackle whose upper-body strength and quickness off the ball should allow him to be a productive rotational option at the next level, though he’ll need to improve his pad level and discipline to hit his ceiling.
Grade: C+
233. Dallas Cowboys: Nathan Thomas, OT, Louisana
Nathan Thomas, OT, Dallas Cowboys
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 332 pounds
Strengths
Anchor and strength
Quick first step
Hand grip
Weaknesses
Mirror ability
Pad level
Clunky feet
Team Fit: Not a great athlete, Nathan Thomas can work to become a developmental backup as a huge guard or heavy-footed tackle.
Grade: D
234. Indianapolis Colts: Jonah Laulu, DT, Oklahoma
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 292 pounds
Strengths
Raw athleticism
Size
Weaknesses
Experience
Polish
Team Fit: Purely an athletic investment, Jonah Laulu will need time before he's even close to impacting gamedays. But he is a great athlete worth stashing.
Grade: D
Utah Utes wide receiver Devaughn Vele (17) tries to avoid Washington Huskies cornerback Dominique Hampton (7) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
235. Denver Broncos: Devaugn Vele, WR, Utah
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 203 pounds
Strengths
Height
Hands
Weaknesses
Inexperience
Speed
Strength
Team Fit: Devaughn Vele is a big receiver who is a release technician with strong hands, but the lack of deep speed and consistent separation will limit him to being a depth receiver.
Team Fit: There aren't many edge defenders as large as Myles Cole. He's too experienced to still suffer from the weaknesses listed, so his developmental curve isn't too encouraging. However, he's a uniquely-built athlete worth looking at.
Grade: C+
237. Cincinnati Bengals: Matt Lee, IOL, Miami
Matt Lee, IOL, Cincinnati Bengals
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 301 pounds
Strengths
Hand usage
Awareness
Footwork
Weaknesses
Size
Body control
Demeanor
Team Fit: Matt Lee maximizes his traits with intelligence and sound footwork, but he's not a big guy who can handle more powerful defenders without help. He projects as a quality backup.
Grade: A-
238. Houston Texans: Solomon Byrd, EDGE, USC
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 255 pounds
Strengths
Size
Strength
Weaknesses
Athleticism
Effectiveness
Team Fit: Solomon Byrd must show that his toughness, strength, and heavy hands are enough to outweigh his limited athletic profile and pass-rushing abilities to warrant a roster spot in the NFL.
Grade: D-
239. New Orleans Saints: Josiah Ezirim, OT, Eastern Kentucky
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 328 pounds
Strengths
Size
Strength
Aggressive
Weaknesses
Average athlete
Wide hands
Team Fit: Ezirim is a powerful right tackle who can provide quality depth for the run game but will struggle in a starting position against more athletic pass rushers.
Grade: B
241. Carolina Panthers: Michael Barrett, LB, Michigan
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 231 pounds
Strengths
Coverage ability
Range
Weaknesses
Frame
Strength
Team Fit:Michael Barrett is an experienced player who shows good coverage ability, but his frame and ability to take on blocks in the run game will be an uphill battle at the next level.
Grade: C-
241. Miami Dolphins: Tahj Washington, WR, USC
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 174 pounds
Strengths
Verticality
Quickness
Toughness
Weaknesses
Contested catches
Breaking press
Clean routes
Team Fit: Tahj Washington is a tough matchup because of his speed and determined nature. But his size limitations will show more in the NFL. He's going to fight for a roster spot.
Grade: D
242. Tennesee Titans: James Williams, LB, Miami
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 231 pounds
Strengths
Hard-hitting presence
Versatile
Effective vs. the run
Weaknesses
Slow in coverage
Strange build
Team Fit: Surprising value for someone who enjoyed a better 2022 than 2023 season. The Titans have the right defensive line to help James Williams be successful as a backup.
Team Fit: Jowon Briggs is a nice player who can compete, but it's unlikely he makes the Browns' final roster at a loaded positional group.
Grade: D
244. Dallas Cowboys: Justin Rodgers, DT, Auburn
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 330 pounds
Strengths
Strength
Anchor
Effective hand usage
Weaknesses
Agility
Quickness
Impact plays
Team Fit: A true nose tackle was needed in Dallas. It'll be tough to make their roster, but he made sense from a skill set and need standpoint.
Grade: C-
Tulane Green Wave quarterback Michael Pratt (7) looks to pass in first quarter action at Yulman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Dobbins-USA TODAY Sports
245. Green Bay Packers: Michael Pratt, QB, Tulane
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 217 pounds
Strengths
Athleticism
Playmaking outside of the pocket
Intermediate accuracy
Weaknesses
Raw mechanics
Not a pinpoint thrower
Awareness
Team Fit: The Packers got great value on someone who projects to be a long-term backup.
Grade: B+
246. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin Culp, TE, Washington
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 241 pounds
Strengths
Blocking
Weaknesses
Explosiveness
Separation
Hands
Team Fit: Devin Culp is a reliable blocker, but he has limitations as a receiver due to his inconsistent hands, difficulties creating separation, and lack of explosive plays, which will leave him in a backup role.
Grade: D
247. Houston Texans: Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 286 pounds
Strengths
Quick first step
Natural power
Run defense
Weaknesses
Consistency
Balance
Pass-rush moves
Team Fit: Marcus Harris has the quickness, power, and leverage to be a good run defender in the league, but must improve his pass-rushing ability to be a consistent every-down defender.
Grade: C
248. Kansas City Chiefs: C.J. Hanson, IOL, Holy Cross
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 300 pounds
Strengths
Athleticism
Mauler mindset
Weaknesses
Strength
Technique
Team Fit: C.J. Hanson is an athletic guard who works best on the move and will bring nastiness and effort, but he lacks the strength, flexibility, and overall technique to hold up consistently against NFL-level players.
Team Fit: Experienced enough to plug and play if needed, Ladarius Henderson can be a premium backup value. Due to his stiffness, he likely can't play tackle too much, but he can hold his own on the interior.
Grade: B
250. Baltimore Ravens: Sanoussi Kane, S, Purdue
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 205 pounds
Strengths
Pass game production
Speed
Versatility
Weaknesses
Physicality
Agility
Team Fit: Baltimore nabs Sanoussi Kane to compete for a backup role. His physical limitations might preclude him from playing in man coverage, but he's rangy and could find time on the field, eventually.
Grade: C-
251. San Francisco 49ers: Tatum Bethune, LB, Florida State
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 229 pounds
Strengths
Quickness
Man coverage potential
Working between blockers
Weaknesses
Zone awareness
Strength
Team Fit: Tatum Bethune is a quick linebacker who shows three-down ability at either linebacker spot, but a lack of size and zone awareness may hold him back from reaching his potential at the next level.
Team Fit: Jaylen Harrell should find a role as a three-down backup who plays out of a 2-point stance on the edge and can flash his physicality and athleticism on limited snaps while contributing on special teams.
Grade: B-
253. Los Angeles Chargers: Cornelius Johnson, WR, Michigan
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 212 pounds
Strengths
Catch radius
Quickness
Contested catches
Weaknesses
Separation
Route detail
Blocking
Team Fit: Cornelius Johnson has the size and athleticism to be a reliable backup receiver but must improve his route savvy and separation skills to be a consistent contributor in the NFL.
Grade: C
254. Los Angeles Rams: KT Leveston, OL, Kansas State
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 326 pounds
Strengths
Strength
Mauler mindset
Weaknesses
Balance
Clunky athlete
Team Fit: KT Leveston is a strong, powerful run-blocking tackle who has a role at the next level, but balance issues, heavy feet, and an inability to neutralize inside counters could be a problem.
Grade: C-
Jan 2, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Kalen King (4) makes an catch against Utah Utes wide receiver Devaughn Vele (17) in the first half of the 109th Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
255. Green Bay Packers: Kalen King, CB, Penn State
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 191 pounds
Strengths
Zone instincts
Physicality
Ball skills
Weaknesses
Discipline
Tackling
Athleticism
Team Fit: Once projected as a first-round talent, Kalen King falls to the end of the draft. He'll likely battle to become a fit in the slot, but it's an uphill climb in Green Bay.
Grade: C
256. Denver Broncos: Nick Gargiulo, IOL, South Carolina
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 318 pounds
Strengths
Quickness
Length
Active
Weaknesses
Hand grip
Lower-body anchor
Team Fit: Nick Gargiulo is a versatile interior blocker who can be a spot starter but is not strong enough to hold his own consistently yet. He could stick as a backup.
Grade: C-
257. New York Jets: Jaylen Key, S, Alabama
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 208 pounds
Strengths
Size
Tackling
Zone coverage
Weaknessess
On-ball production
Man coverage potential
Team Fit: Jaylen Key is an experienced and physical safety who plays with good technique and control in zone coverage, but his lack of on-ball production and range limits him to being a backup-level player who can contribute on special teams.
Grade: C-
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Jaylan Ford 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For New Orleans Saints LB
Texas Longhorns linebacker Jaylan Ford (41) celebrates a defensive stop during the Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff semifinals game against the Washington Huskies at the Caesars Superdome on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024 in New Orleans, La. (Austin American Statesman/USA TODAY-Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
A good-sized stacked linebacker who showed some pop as a tackler in the run game and displays a physical component to his game at times
Had run-game snaps in which he read the offensive line blocking and flow of the play, scraping decisively and cleanly to the ball
Flashed at times the play recognition and reaction to attack downhill in the run game; this must be part of his game
On some run-game snaps, he read the play design and blocking scheme and then cleanly shot a gap into the backfield
Did a good job sinking and getting depth in zone coverage while remaining aware of routes in front of him
Played with good route recognition in underneath zone coverage and was disciplined in his drops and reactions
A strong part of his game was making tackles when dropping in underneath zone coverage by rallying up to the receiver.
WEAKNESSES
He's not a higher-level athlete. His speed is average, and he lacks the recognition anticipation to compensate for it.
There were run-game snaps in which he was a beat slow to key and diagnose correctly, pointing to slow reaction time.
Showed a tendency to hesitate in his recognition and reaction in the run game with long processing times
Did not trigger with short-area explosiveness in the box; there was not a snap to movement in a confined space
Did not show a higher level inside-out, sideline-to-sideline range
Not a sudden, twitchy athlete, but more methodical
Texas Longhorns linebacker Jaylan Ford (41) rushes the passer during a game against the Houston Cougars at TDECU Stadium on Oct. 21, 2023. (Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports)
NFL TRANSITION
Ford has some meaningful athletic limitations as you project and transition him to the next level, but his game has some strengths that could get him on the field early.
Ford is a stacked linebacker who lacks the kind of play speed and sideline-to-sideline range defensive coordinators in the NFL would like. Ford’s tape showed flashes of being a strong stacked box linebacker who could key and diagnose with the needed clarity, reaction speed and flow to the football or shoot gaps and make plays. However, there were too many run-game snaps in which his recognition and reaction were a beat slow, and he does not possess the higher level athleticism and sudden movement to compensate.
Ford was often deployed as a blitzer at Texas, rushing from the inside and outside. Part of evaluating his transition to the league is whether he can do that because it would make him a more valuable player who could conceivably play in some sub packages.
One of Ford's strengths was as an underneath zone coverage defender with excellent awareness of routes, eye discipline and rally quickness to the ball. That could get him on the field in sub-defenses despite his lack of desired athleticism. He may be comparable to Ja’Whaun Bentley of the Patriots. Bentley weighs a little more than Ford but Ford’s athletic testing is slightly better. Bentley came out of Purdue in 2018 as a fifth-round pick and became a starter out of his rookie training camp.
OTHER NOTES
Ford played four years at Texas with 29 starts in 49 career games. He was a First-Team All-Big 12 selection in 2022 and 2023.
Ford was almost exclusively a stacked linebacker in the Texas defense, but there were snaps, especially on third down in which he lined up on the edge or inside and was deployed as a pass rusher as part of stunt concepts. Ford was also deployed as a blitzer at times, predominantly rushing from the inside. Ford mainly matched up on running backs in Texas' man coverage concepts, and he would green dog if the back was part of the pass protection.
NFL Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Trevor Keegan 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For Philadelphia Eagles OG
Michigan offensive lineman Trevor Keegan (OL38) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Excellent size and length to allow him to use his hands and reach to engage defenders quickly after the snap
Good drive blocker who plays with good leverage and leg drive when needing to move defenders in the run game
Strong hands and good arm length to allow him to engage and maintain his blocks. Good strength
Very good vision and recognition of defensive schemes, allowing him to adjust and pick up defenders on stunts
Athletic mover in run game who is able to make blocks in space as a puller or on second and third level (good footwork)
Aggressive playing personality in attacking defenders as run and pass blocker. Physical at the point of contact
Comfortable moving laterally or pulling, which allows him to play under control and play with good angles
Good job in combo blocking schemes (duo), generating movement and using his quickness to get to the second level
Solid lateral agility shown in shuffling to stick with defenders both as run blocker and pass blocker (good feet)
WEAKNESSES
Tall, upright player at times, especially in space, affecting his ability to COD and stick with quick defenders
His aggressive play style causes him to play off balance by dropping his head, which affects his body control
Catches defenders at times due to poor hand positioning when attacked with power/bull rush (wide hands)
Questionable body control and balance are shown when facing a good secondary rush due to a high playing style
Michigan offensive lineman Trevor Keegan, center, celebrates a touchdown scored by running back Blake Corum against Washington during the second half of Michigan's 34-13 win in the College Football Playoff national championship game in Houston.
NFL TRANSITION
Keegan was a three-year starter at left guard for Michigan (39 career starts). He is a physical interior lineman with good strength and a playing personality that allows him to generate movement and control defenders once engaged. He's a long lineman with good hands to engage and maintain his blocks but tends to be over-aggressive and lean into blocks, causing him to play off balance.
His movement in space as a run blocker when pulling or playing on the edge or up in the second level (solid footwork) shows good quickness. He plays with very good vision and feel for defensive schemes and stunts in how he trades off defenders smoothly. Keegan has inconsistent mechanics and technique at times at the point of attack due to his aggressive playing style. That can cause him to struggle to maintain his blocks after initial contact.
Overall, Keegan is an intriguing prospect because he has the size to play either inside at guard or on the edge at tackle. At Michigan, he played exclusively at left guard. He would provide versatile depth. He has a nasty, physical playing personality with good power and strength at the point of attack as a run blocker and pass blocker (solid anchor). Combining his strength with good footwork and lateral agility makes Keegan a good early Day 3 pick with the potential to develop into a good NFL starter.
OTHER NOTES
Keegan came out of Crystal Lake, Ill., as a four-star recruit, ranked 19th in the nation at tackle and No. 1 in the state. He was a three-year starter with 39 career starts at Michigan, all at left guard. Keegan earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention in 2021, first-team All-Big Ten in 2022 and second-team All-Big Ten in 2023.
In the past three seasons, Keegan had the 13th-most offensive snaps at left guard with all 2,111 snaps, and one at right guard. Of these plays, he had 936 pass plays, allowing only 13 pressures (1.4 percent pressure rate). Keegan had 1,174 running plays with only 16 snaps of blown assignments (1.4 percent bad run block rate). Both block rates were in the middle of the pack of left guards.
Expert Analysis
4/27/24
4 min read
Tyrone Tracy Jr. 2024 NFL Draft: Combine Results, Scouting Report For New York Giants RB
Purdue Boilermakers running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (3) runs with the ball against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field. (Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports)
The 2024 NFL Draft is getting close, making it an excellent time to highlight some of the class' best players with scouting reports. Each report will include strengths, weaknesses and background information.
Good-sized back with natural quickness and loose hips who shows excellent short-area burst and elusiveness.
Shows excellent patience and vision in gap-scheme run game tempo-ing his path to read offensive line pull and defenses.
Explosive short-area burst through the first level of defense with balance and body control to re-accelerate.
Can stop and start and re-accelerate both inside and on the edge. Doesn't slow down or lose stride on his cuts.
Effective in both zone and gap scheme run games showing one-cut downhill burst, patience and tempo.
Accelerating burst and speed to get to the edge and outflank the defense. Can outrun inside-out pursuit.
Outstanding shiftiness and elusiveness in confined space to make defenders miss and create extra yardage.
High-level one-cut downhill ability with sudden change of direction. Works through small creases at first level.
Makes defenders miss in different ways with multiple moves: lateral quickness, spins, physicality and speed.
Brings pass-receiving dimension out of the backfield with the ability to run intermediate and vertical routes.
Shows willingness and tenacity to step up and pass protect vs. blitzing second- and third-level defenders.
Purdue running back Tyrone Tracy Jr (RB25) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
Weaknesses
Still learning the running back position given his college background as a receiver. Lacks needed experience.
At times, will look for the bigger play when he needs to attack the line of scrimmage and get the hard yards. Is that lack of experience?
Will need more work in the zone-run game where he has to read blocks, gap fluidity and defensive flow.
Doesn't possess home-run speed — won't run away from the defense when he gets past the third level.
NFL Transition
Tracy was a full-time running back for only one season after spending his first five college seasons primarily as a wide receiver, the position at which he was initially recruited to play at Iowa.
While still learning the running back position, he'd likely make the transition to the next level in much the same way that Alvin Kamara and Jahmyr Gibbs are deployed by their respective teams. While Tracy isn't at the level of either back (Kamara in his prime, Gibbs right now going into his second season with the Detroit Lions), he would profile in an offense as a complementary primary back and multidimensional receiving weapon who can line up in multiple locations within the formation and could be especially effective as a detached receiver given his background.
Given the kind of running back that Tracy is and how he will best make the transition to the next level — assuming he will be deployed that way, which I believe is the most effective means for him to play in the league — there aren't a lot of weaknesses in his game. I could see him fitting well into an NFL offense that features the back in the passing game, especially with formation versatility.
Tracy will only get better as a runner with more experience, but he showed strong traits with his natural quickness and burst and his elusiveness making defenders miss in multiple ways. Perhaps most impressively, he showed more than functional physicality and competitive toughness to finish runs. Overall, Tracy is one of my favorite backs to watch, and I believe he is an ascending talent. I'm looking forward to seeing who drafts him and how he's deployed.
Other Notes
Tracy was initially recruited by Iowa as a receiver and played his first four years there before transferring to Purdue for his final two seasons. In 2019 with the Hawkeyes, he had a 36-589-16.4-3 TD stat line; He made the full-time position switch to running back in 2023 and carried the ball 113 times after having only 33 rushes in his first five college seasons.
He was featured at times on jet sweeps in the Purdue offense, and there's no question Tracy can be deployed in multiple ways in the context of an NFL offense — both in terms of alignment, location and concepts. His 20-yard touchdown vs. Northwestern was a strong snapshot of him as a runner: gap scheme with lateral quickness and contact balance with a darting, slashing feel at the second and third levels of the defense. His 28-yard run vs. Indiana was another strong snapshot: inside lead play with Tracy again showing lateral agility to slide from gap to gap and the contact balance to work through tacklers at the second level.
