Here are the seven players I think are most underrated* (in order of underratedness; yes, that's a word).
Sean Smith, CB, Utah (mock draft position: 57): Smith has been a favorite of mine for some time. He has great height (6'2") and speed (4.4 40). Best of all, he's only been playing the position for two years meaning there's a ton of upside left. I would not be shocked to hear his name get called in the first round. Teams in need of secondary help would be foolish to pass on him.
Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma (138): To me, Iglesias is a better prospect than Malcolm Kelly, a former teammate of his who went in round two last year. Iglesias was QB Sam Bradford's favorite target this season (74 catches, 1,150 yards, 10 TD). A few weeks back, he was being discussed as an early second round possibility. Now, McShay has him going early in round five? Not happening.
Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan State (137): Maybe I'm a sucker for college productivity, but if you lead the NCAA in rushing touchdowns and finish in the top five in rushing yards and you play in the defensive-focused Big 10, I think you should get a little more respect. Ringer should see his name called in round three, not round five.
Jarrett Dillard, WR, Rice (133): Dillard hauled in 55 touchdowns over the last three seasons. Sure, he's a bit undersized and lacks top end speed, but his productivity and toughness (hat tip, Jay Bilas) cannot and should not be underestimated.
Gerald McRath, LB, Southern Miss (192): The combine-like measurables may not be there but McRath recorded 137 tackles despite playing behind a woeful defensive front. has the theme of productivity set in yet?
Percy Harvin, WR, Florida (27): Three years ago, Reggie Bush was the second overall selection. Harvin is the same player. Getting him 25 picks later wouldn't happen, but if it did, it's a steal.
Rey Maualuga, LB, USC (28): Possibly the second best linebacker in this year's class. His size:speed ratio is unparalleled. He's a beast with a mean streak and should be picked in the top 15.
*Rated based on Todd McShay's latest seven-round mock draft published on April 21st.
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I bet I know who's going to top your overrated list.
ReplyDeleteHow do you feel about Kenny Britt?
ReplyDeleteTom-
ReplyDeleteYou'll probably be surprised by the overrated list.
As for Kenny Britt, I'm unconvinced he can be a true number one receiver in the NFL. No one questions his speed but his route-running, lack of consistency, and intangibles could push him into the late first, early second round area.