Under the Radar NFL Draft Prospects: Scouts Weigh In
The bravado of college athletes often precedes the harsh realities of the NFL. Cam Ward’s recent declaration, echoing a sentiment of holding teams accountable for passing on him in the draft, generated some buzz. However, the article cautions against taking such pronouncements at face value, pointing to Aaron Rodgers as the rare example of a player who truly backed up similar words. Rodgers’ statement came after being overlooked by many teams, a situation markedly different. The juxtaposition serves as a reminder that talent evaluation is a complex process, and words alone don’t guarantee success.
With that cautionary note established, the article shifts its focus to a more concrete area: the analysis of potential NFL draft prospects. USA TODAY Sports consulted with multiple NFL scouts, who, under the condition of anonymity, provided insights into eight under-the-radar college football players with the potential to make a significant impact at the professional level. These players, while not necessarily headlining mock drafts, possess unique skill sets and intriguing attributes that could make them valuable additions to NFL teams.
[Tight End] Theo Fannin:
The first player under the microscope is Theo Fannin. Fannin’s impressive statistics immediately capture attention. A staggering 117 receptions in 2024, coupled with 161 catches and 16 touchdowns over the past two seasons, highlight his prolific production. The scouts emphasize Fannin’s unconventional tight end profile. He’s not a traditional, blocking-focused tight end, but rather a versatile pass-catcher who can create mismatches in the passing game.
One scout draws a comparison to Evan Engram, highlighting Fannin’s athleticism, length, and expansive catch radius. The scout points out Fannin’s value in converting third downs, a crucial aspect of offensive success in the NFL. His ability to get open and reliably catch the ball makes him a valuable asset in those critical situations. While he may not be a dominant blocker, his receiving prowess makes him a tantalizing prospect for teams seeking a dynamic pass-catching tight end.
[Quarterback] Drew Miller:
Next on the list is quarterback Drew Miller. While specific combine measurements are listed, the emphasis lies on his development as a passer. The scout highlights Miller’s improved understanding of pass concepts and his significant jump in production from his first to second year as a starter. The numbers speak for themselves: 4,779 passing yards and 34 touchdowns demonstrate a clear upward trajectory.
The scout acknowledges Miller’s size and toughness, noting his ability to stand in the pocket and deliver throws under pressure. He also describes him as surprisingly athletic. The scout emphasizes that Miller is far from a finished product and may not be ready to start immediately. However, he appreciates Miller’s willingness to challenge defenses and his composure under pressure. While acknowledging that Miller forces some throws, the scout believes this can be coached, and the underlying tools are there for him to develop into a starting quarterback in the NFL.
[Running Back] Jamal Thomas:
Jamal Thomas, the running back, presents a more complex evaluation. The scout expresses caution regarding "one-shot players" – those who excel in a single season. He raises concerns about whether their performance is a genuine reflection of their abilities or a product of a "money year" motivated by the prospect of reaching the NFL.
Despite these reservations, the scout acknowledges Thomas’s valuable skills in both the running and passing games. He praises Thomas’s elusiveness, surprising power, impressive inside vision, and decisive one-cut ability. The scout also questions whether Thomas possesses the size and durability to withstand the pounding of a feature back in the NFL. This highlights the inherent risk in evaluating running backs with limited track records.
[Tight End] Kevin Baker:
Kevin Baker enters the evaluation with impressive combine measurements. Baker’s production in 2024, marked by career highs in receptions (43), yards (591), and average per catch (13.7), further underscores his potential. The scout acknowledges Baker’s exceptional athleticism and length. However, he points out that Baker needs to improve his ability to create separation from defenders, a critical skill in the NFL.
The scout notes that Baker’s long strides, while effective at the college level, may not translate as well to the tighter coverage and faster defenders in the NFL. While Baker may not be a strong blocker, the scout acknowledges that many pass-catching tight ends in the league also lack that skill. Ultimately, the scout concludes that Baker’s ball skills and body control are too enticing to ignore.
[Offensive Tackle] Richard Barnes:
Richard Barnes, the offensive tackle, the scout is concerned about the weight and needs Barnes to become more of a factor in the run game. The height can create inflexibility. The scout like that Barnes can play either side and knows how to use his hands and length.
[Offensive Guard] Charles Ross:
Charles Ross, another offensive lineman, presents a different profile. The scout questions whether Ross has the length to play tackle in the NFL, suggesting that he may be better suited to play guard. However, the scout praises Ross’s toughness, ferocity, explosiveness in the run game, and ability to anchor against bull rushes.
The scout emphasizes the importance of having a "nasty" interior lineman who can excel in the trenches. Ross fits that mold, making him a valuable prospect for teams seeking a tough and physical presence on the interior of their offensive line.
[Defensive Tackle] William Cole:
William Cole, the defensive tackle, the scout notes Cole’s potential for "destruction" and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. While acknowledging concerns about consistency, the scout praises Cole’s strong lower body and his ability to be immovable at times.
The scout envisions Cole as a three-technique defensive tackle in the NFL, capable of playing on all three downs. He also highlights Cole’s exceptional length and his knack for knocking down passes at the line of scrimmage. Cole’s impressive career total of 12 pass breakups for a defensive tackle underscores his awareness and timing as a pass rusher.
[Linebacker] Thomas Davis:
Finally, linebacker Thomas Davis rounds out the list of under-the-radar prospects. The scout notes that Davis was somewhat overshadowed by his teammates in 2023 but showed dramatic improvement after moving to the edge last season. He exhibited explosion and the ability to use his hands to create separation, becoming a completely different player.
While Davis needs to improve his consistency in getting to the quarterback, the scout believes he possesses the instincts to do so. His relative inexperience at the position and the need for more reps are areas for improvement, but the scout sees significant upside in Davis’s potential.
In conclusion, this article provides a glimpse into the complex world of NFL draft evaluation. The scouts offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of eight under-the-radar college football players. Their analysis highlights the importance of evaluating players beyond their statistics and considering their potential for development at the professional level. While the draft remains an unpredictable process, these insights provide a valuable perspective on some of the hidden gems who may emerge as key contributors in the NFL.
