Front Runners

DE Adrian Clayborn, Iowa, Sr.

Clayborn really came into his own last season finishing 2^nd in the Big Ten with 11.5 sacks and 3^rd with 20 TFL’s. This season his numbers have dropped significantly, as he has recorded just 7.5 TFL’s and 3.5 sacks. Those numbers resemble the ones from his sophomore season. While some speculate it comes from the double teams he has faced all season, others like myself believe that is somewhat of an inaccurate assessment. At times fellow teammate Mike Daniels has drawn most of the attention from his DT position, while Iowa has used multiple blitz schemes to isolate Clayborn in one on one situations. It also appears Clayborn is still struggling with his conditioning, something that really showed in the closing minutes of the Northwestern game. Though Clayborn has all of the measurables and tools to the #1 player overall, he still has too many major questions that need to be addressed during his post-season workouts.

DE Cameron Heyward, Ohio State, Sr.

Another Big Ten defensive player joins the list, which could have us facing another draft year where two of the three top players could come from the defensive line. Similar to Clayborn, Heyward has watched his numbers drop from average to worst since last season. The most eye-popping statistic Heyward has is his ½ of a sack he has recorded thus far in the 2010 season. But his ability and potential could keep him in this race until someone emerges as the true #1 prospect.

QB Andrew Luck, Stanford, Jr.

If anyone has seen Luck play this season they will know why I ask this question. Is there anything else he needs to prove on the collegiate level? After all, he has led Stanford to its highest ranking since 1992 and has posted All-American type numbers this season. To steal a quote from my colleague Josh Scobey, “Luck has been very effective throwing and understanding how to beat defenses with his intelligence and decision making”. That one summary describes not only who he is on the field, but his ability off the field as well. Similar to Sam Bradford he could be the #1 player selected overall, but rumor has it that he is staying for another season.

CB Patrick Peterson, LSU, Jr.

Talk about an impact player this season; Patrick Peterson is the guy. Peterson has become one of the most feared players in the country both as a defender and returner. In 3 interceptions this season he leads the SEC with 131 yards in returns. He has also dazzled the nation with his return ability with nearly 1,000 total return yards and 2 touchdowns. At 6’2, 222 pounds, Peterson has been clocked as low as a 4.37 in the 40-yard dash.

WR A.J. Green, Georgia, Jr.

No one has made an impact to their team like A.J. Green has to the Georgia Bulldogs. It was evident to see when the playmaking receiver stepped onto the field, the Bulldogs offense immediately turned from rust to gold. Green is thought to be the most complete receiver in this year’s draft and very few carry the ability he has. There is no doubt he would be an instant playmaker at the next level, but his four game suspension could have dashed away any hopes of him becoming the #1 pick overall this season.

Darkhorses

DE Da’Quan Bowers, Clemson, Jr.

The Clemson DE has seemed unstoppable at times, which could explain his nation leading total of 13 sacks. He is a very powerful edge rusher, but it’s his finesse that can turn a game around in one snap.

CB Prince Amukamara, Nebraska, Sr.

Though he has struggled at times this season, Amukamara is a solid and safe defender to have on your team. He won’t be someone that will turn a franchise around, but he will be a reliable and valuable draft pick to build around.

QB Ryan Mallett, Arkansas, Jr.

If Luck decides to stay in school, Mallett could be the next best QB if he declares early for next year’s draft. However, Mallet’s turnovers and questionable mobility could be too much for a team to risk as the #1 overall pick.