Behind Pickett and Malik Willis. Also has Sam Williams ranked as the 9th best "Outside LInebacker."
Grade: 94 | Previous rank: 1
Thibodeaux is a phenomenal pass-rusher with great speed and size. He gets a good push on blockers, and he shows solid initial quickness and closing speed. Thibodeaux is effective dipping-and-ripping, but he also displays a strong inside move. Against the run, he locates the ball and then stacks and sheds blockers, often making plays in the backfield. He could use a little more work as a hands fighter, but there is no doubt that he is the top edge prospect in the class. And he is versatile enough to convert to 3-4 outside linebacker or even occasionally kick inside to rush the passer.
Through eight games, Thibodeaux has 6.0 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 5 QB hurries and 2 forced fumbles. After an outstanding game against UCLA in October, he showed once again just how dominant he can be in Saturday's win against Washington State, posting a pair of sacks.
Grade: 94 | Previous rank: 2
Stingley burst onto the scene with six interceptions as a freshman in 2019. The numbers weren't as eye-popping last season, and he hasn't had a single interception in 10 games over the past two years, but he still has all the tools to be a truly dominant shutdown cornerback in the NFL. He is long, fast and physical, but his versatility is key. Stingley can play press-man, off-coverage, free safety and the overhang position. He is smooth with oily hips, and he has the recovery speed and instincts to make plays on the ball. A bonus: Stingley also has experience returning punts. In three games this season, he has 3.5 tackles for loss and forced a fumble, but Stingley is out indefinitely right now after getting a procedure done on his injured foot.
Grade: 93 | Previous rank: 3
Neal has played all over the Alabama line, starting at guard as a freshman before sliding to right tackle in 2020 and finally left tackle this season. He mirrors and slides really well, and speed rushers struggle to get around his long frame. On run blocks, Neal excels with a quick first step and excellent angles. He shows range at the second level, which makes him perfect for a zone-blocking scheme. He also delivers blocks with power, though he is still developing his balance. His awareness stands out -- he can locate blitzes, twists and stunts and seal off the pass rush. Neal can get in trouble occasionally lunging, but his skill set makes him an easy plug-and-play in the NFL.
Grade: 93 | Previous rank: 4
Hamilton is a nightmare matchup for offenses. He has great size and closing burst while playing all over the defense. You'll see him line up deep in coverage, over the slot and even at linebacker. Hamilton can blanket tight ends, and with solid ball skills and an ability to read the QB, he will make plays. He has three interceptions in seven games this year, along with 34 tackles and four passes broken up. Against the run, Hamilton can fill the alley, but he will need to work on his angles to avoid missing tackles. Hamilton injured his knee in October and has not yet returned.
Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 5
Hutchinson plays a powerful game and is truly relentless in pursuit. Hutchinson also has fast eyes and locates the ball really well. I also like his inside move, and his ability to line up on either side and drop in coverage will be valuable to NFL teams. He has 10.0 sacks (tied for seventh in the country), 9 QB hurries and 2 forced fumbles this season for the Wolverines.
Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 7
Cross has long arms, good agility and solid quickness for a 310-pound left tackle. He's a natural knee-bender with great balance and the mirror-and-slide skills to handle double moves and speed rushers. Cross is a patient pass-blocker and can pick up blitzes and other defensive line disguises. On run-blocking plays, Cross has strong angles and above-average range, but he needs to develop his lower-body strength and push. He sees more pass-blocking snaps than most collegiate linemen in the Bulldogs' scheme, giving evaluators plenty of tape.
Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 8
Wilson accelerates off the line and immediately puts defensive backs on their heels. He will drop his weight at the top of his route stem, and he is extremely sudden in and out of his breaks. Wilson occasionally is a body catcher, but I've also seen him make plenty of difficult catches away from his frame and in traffic, controlling his body and adjusting to off-target throws. There is big-play ability, too, thanks to elite speed and acceleration. He tracks the deep ball well, and while he isn't going to elude many defenders laterally, he turns up field and hits the second gear so swiftly that he is trouble after the catch.
Wilson has 53 catches for 813 yards and nine touchdowns (tied for eighth in the FBS) this season, and he had arguably the best game of his career against Purdue on Saturday. He caught 10 passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns -- and added a 51-yard touchdown rush.
Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 24
London is a big target who is versatile enough to operate out wide or in the slot. He has great contact balance, terrific body control and solid hands. London has the speed to threaten vertically, will make plays in traffic over the middle and is smooth in and out of his breaks. I really like his ability to find the soft spots in zone looks. Before he fractured his right ankle (out for the season), London had 88 catches, 1,084 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Those numbers still rank second, eighth and tied for 33rd despite the fact he hasn't played since October, and six of his eight games saw him hit 130-plus receiving yards.
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 14
Dean is an off-ball linebacker who has good speed, suddenness, range and instincts. He can match up with running backs in coverage, but he can also go sideline to sideline in run defense. Dean will make a lot of plays in pursuit, closing on ball carriers and wrapping up on tackles. His improvement as a blitzer this season has been impressive, too. He can locate gaps and close on the QB. Dean shows an excellent motor on every single down. In 2021, Dean has 49 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 7.0 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble and 2 interceptions -- including a pick-six.
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 12
Dotson is a bit undersized, but his suddenness, speed and route craftiness make him a dangerous offensive weapon. He is lightning quick in and out of his breaks, but he always seems to be in control. His tape is smooth, and his routes are sharp. Despite a smaller catch radius, his ball skills are terrific, and he will pluck the ball on the run and/or adjust to throws with excellent body control. Dotson can challenge vertically, too, but he doesn't have the size to win many 50-50 balls. If he does win, he has the field vision and wheels to produce after the catch.
Dotson has 80 catches (fourth in the nation) for 993 yards (14th) and nine touchdowns (tied for eighth) this season, and he has at least five receptions in all 10 games. In an early November win against Maryland, he exploded for 11 catches, 242 yards and three scores.
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 16
Lloyd is a versatile linebacker who moves like a safety -- he played there in high school. He has the quickness, strength and balance to slip blocks, but there is room for improvement there. Lloyd is rangy and closes well in pursuit. He will oftentimes spy quarterbacks. When turned loose as a pass-rusher, he is an effective hands fighter, and he can win against running backs when hitting an inside hole. Lloyd has 84 tackles, 7.0 sacks, 3 interceptions and 6 passes broken up -- and his 19.0 tackles for loss rank second in the country.
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 290
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 9
Leal's versatility will be valuable in the NFL. He can win as an inside pass-rusher thanks to a quick first step, an ability to penetrate gaps and solid closing speed. But he can also use his speed-to-power, length and awareness to get it done off the edge -- though he lacks the top-end speed to consistently get pressure outside. His range against the run is impressive, and he disengages quickly to make plays. Leal has 6.5 sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss, 2 QB hurries and a forced fumble in 10 games this season.
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 11
Elam is instinctive and aggressive. He has loads of top-end speed (he ran track in high school), great closing burst and excellent awareness in coverage, and he is able to play in press, zone or off-man. Elam follows the ball well when it's in the air, and his on-ball production is solid. He has an interception and five passes broken up this season, and his 13 pass breakups in 2020 tied for the fourth most in the country.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 27
A new No. 1 quarterback in the class! Pickett has really come on this season, currently sitting sixth in the country in Total QBR (84.0). His 3,517 passing yards are fifth, and his 32 passing TDs are fourth. He has four interceptions over 10 games, and he has completed 67.5% of his passes. His arm strength and pocket mobility are average areas in his game, but his toughness in the pocket, fast eyes on progressions and awareness in holding the safety stand out. His decision-making is improving after back-to-back seasons with 13-to-9 TD-INT ratios. And Pickett flashes some second-reaction ability, too, scrambling when he needs to create.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 28
An Ohio State transfer, Williams is a big-play threat with elite speed and shiftiness as a ball carrier. When he plucks on the run, he accelerates away from defenders. Williams is still working through the nuances of route running, and he can occasionally be a body catcher, but he tracks and adjusts to balls in the air well. Williams has 1,028 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns (both top-10 numbers), and he is one of just 11 players averaging at least 20 yards per catch.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 10
Olave's ball skills are excellent, and there is plenty of speed in his game. His route running stands out, as he explodes off the line and creates separation vertically. He always seems to have a plan, and he drops his weight quickly to accelerate out of his breaks. I'd like to see him get stronger, but Olave is an extremely talented receiver prospect. He has 51 catches for 708 yards and 11 touchdowns (tied for first in the country) this season. Consider this: Olave has scored at least once in eight of nine games this season, and he has three games with at least 100 receiving yards and multiple TDs.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 17
Karlaftis played just three games in 2020 after testing positive for COVID-19, but he is healthy this season, registering 3.0 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles and a fumble-return TD in 10 games. He wins with power, holding his own at the point of attack and showing good stopping power. Karlaftis gets a good push as a power rusher and then falls inside when he is even with the QB. He has shown an ability to make an impact as an inside rusher as well.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 6
Willis is terrific at extending plays and keeping his eyes downfield outside the pocket. His off-platform throws have plenty of "wow" factor, as he gets the ball out from various release points with velocity and hits tight windows. An Auburn transfer, Willis has thrown for 2,159 yards this season, with 21 passing touchdowns and nine interceptions -- including three in an early November loss to Ole Miss. His completion percentage (66.4%) and yards per completion (9.2) have both improved from last season, but he has taken 38 sacks in 2021. On the ground, Willis has 755 yards and another 10 touchdowns.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 20
Linderbaum is an effective zone blocker with great foot speed and range, and he is a solid combo blocker at the second level. At 290 pounds, he is a little on the smaller side, but he flashes good finishing power and anchors well for his size. But there is some room for improvement when it comes to staying square and in front of defenders.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 15
Petit-Frere has heavy hands, and he will often knock defenders off balance and even sometimes to the ground with his power. But he is also very quick and shows body control in pass protection. He has not given up a single sack over four seasons (including one redshirt year) at Ohio State. As a run-blocker, he smothers defenders at the point of attack and seals off the backside. He was Ohio State's right tackle in 2020 but moved over to the left side this season.
Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 13
Davis is a massive 3-4 nose tackle, but he has experience as a traditional defensive tackle in a 4-3, too. He has power and will bull-rush blockers back into their quarterback. But he is more of a disrupter than a finisher -- he has just 2.0 sacks in 10 games -- and lacks first-step quickness and redirect ability. Against the run, Davis does a great job with gap control and is a true space eater. Good luck moving him off his spot. Watching his tape, the thing that jumps out is how often he requires double-team attention.
Grade: 89 | Previous rank: 31
At his best in press-man coverage, McCreary can reroute receivers with his length and quick feet. He does get in some trouble when receivers make sharp cuts, and his run support needs to improve, but his ball skills and length lead to plays on the ball. His 12 passes defended, including a pair of interceptions, are tied for seventh in the nation. NFL teams that play a lot of press will want to take a look at McCreary's tape.
Grade: 89 | Previous rank: NR
Enagbare is still raw as a pass-rusher, especially when it comes to how he uses his hands when engaged with blockers, but he has potential thanks to good burst off the edge (4.5 sacks this season and 10 QB hurries). One of the most impressive parts of his game is how often he gets his arms in passing lanes. Enagbare tends to play high, especially against the run, and he is neutralized by offensive tackles too often because of it. He is probably a situational edge rusher early in his pro career with the tools to develop into a bigger role.
Grade: 89 | Previous rank: 18
Burks doesn't have a ton of speed, and he won't burn defensive backs off the line of scrimmage. But he is a savvy route runner who knows how to find the soft spots in zone coverage and use his frame to generate late separation. But what puts Burks among the best receivers in this class? His ball skills. He can pluck on the run with his oversized hands and does an outstanding job with body control to haul in deep passes or off-target throws. Burks is also effective after the catch, transitioning upfield, showing good vision and breaking tackles along the way. He has 815 receiving yards, and his eight touchdown catches are tied for 16th in the nation. A big matchup against Alabama's defense looms (Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET).
Grade: 88 | Previous rank: NR
Lining up opposite Aidan Hutchinson on Michigan's defensive front, Ojabo has really come on this season, posting 10.0 sacks (tied for seventh in the country), 10.0 tackles for loss, 6 QB hurries and 5 forced fumbles (second). He has a super-quick first step and excellent torso flexibility when coming off the edge. He has speed and hunts for the ball, but he can get stuck on blocks occasionally.
Grade: 88 | Previous rank: 21
Corral has improved as a pocket passer and decision-maker in 2021, but those are still work-in-progress areas. He is tough and mobile in the pocket, and he has a nice quick release, getting the ball out on quick-game throws and leading receivers into extra yardage. Corral has 2,774 passing yards and 17 touchdown passes this season, and he notably has just two interceptions after throwing 14 of them last season. His run-game ability is also playing a big part: He has 523 yards on the ground along with 10 scores. He rushed for 195 yards in a mid-October win over Tennessee.
Grade: 88 | Previous rank: 23
Receivers have a hard time getting off the line against Gardner. He is tall and long, and he smothers coverage underneath. Gardner has strong recognition ability in zone, is an adequate wrap-up tackler and flashes playmaking skill. He has three interceptions, a pair of sacks and a forced fumble so far in 2021. One concern: He plays almost too physical sometimes.
Grade: 87 | Previous rank: NR
Raimann is a former tight end who slid into a left tackle role with the Chippewas in 2020. He gets into position and walls off defenders against the run, though he will occasionally fall off a block late. As a pass-blocker, he has the ability to shut down defenders when he gets his hands inside, and thanks to great lateral mobility, he can take away the inside move. Considering he is relatively new to the offensive line, he is still raw, but Raimann's ceiling is high.
Grade: 87 | Previous rank: NR
McBride is the only tight end to rank inside the FBS' top 45 in receiving yards this season -- and he's No. 17 overall with 919. His 78 catches also rank sixth overall. He is versatile, lining up out wide, in the slot and in-line with Colorado State. He can be a real matchup problem for defensive coordinators. McBride is a big target who makes plays in traffic and downfield, thanks to elite ball skills. He leverages his routes well and is productive after the catch.
Grade: 86 | Previous rank: NR
Penning moves defenders off the ball with his power, and he moves well for his size. I'd like to see some improvement in his footwork, and he has some issues with mirroring, but Penning is an absolute mauler. He'd likely be a swing tackle to begin his NFL career, but his upside is immense.
Grade: 86 | Previous rank: 19
Wydermyer has been used primarily as a Y tight end with the Aggies, but he's certainly also effective flexed outside or as an in-line blocker. He is a crisp route runner for a 6-foot-5 pass-catcher, and he gets separation at the top of his stem by using his quickness and frame. Wydermyer has a wide catch radius, showing solid body control on both throws over his head and deep balls. When it comes to blocking, he is at his best in small areas, showing enough strength to sustain. He has 474 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season.
Grade: 86 | Previous rank: 30
Johnson has experience at guard and tackle, and he will prove versatile in the NFL, too, with the foot speed, range and balance to excel in zone-blocking schemes. I wouldn't classify him as a consistent mauler, but he is smooth getting set and tends to stay in front of his assignments as a pass-protector. His technique could use some refining, and he'll need to improve his ability to anchor at the point of attack.
1. Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
2. Malik Willis, Liberty
3. Matt Corral, Ole Miss
4. Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati
5. Sam Howell, North Carolina
6. Carson Strong, Nevada
7. Phil Jurkovec, Boston College
8. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
9. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State
10. Jake Haener, Fresno State
1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon*
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 250Grade: 94 | Previous rank: 1
Thibodeaux is a phenomenal pass-rusher with great speed and size. He gets a good push on blockers, and he shows solid initial quickness and closing speed. Thibodeaux is effective dipping-and-ripping, but he also displays a strong inside move. Against the run, he locates the ball and then stacks and sheds blockers, often making plays in the backfield. He could use a little more work as a hands fighter, but there is no doubt that he is the top edge prospect in the class. And he is versatile enough to convert to 3-4 outside linebacker or even occasionally kick inside to rush the passer.
Through eight games, Thibodeaux has 6.0 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 5 QB hurries and 2 forced fumbles. After an outstanding game against UCLA in October, he showed once again just how dominant he can be in Saturday's win against Washington State, posting a pair of sacks.
2. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU*
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 195Grade: 94 | Previous rank: 2
Stingley burst onto the scene with six interceptions as a freshman in 2019. The numbers weren't as eye-popping last season, and he hasn't had a single interception in 10 games over the past two years, but he still has all the tools to be a truly dominant shutdown cornerback in the NFL. He is long, fast and physical, but his versatility is key. Stingley can play press-man, off-coverage, free safety and the overhang position. He is smooth with oily hips, and he has the recovery speed and instincts to make plays on the ball. A bonus: Stingley also has experience returning punts. In three games this season, he has 3.5 tackles for loss and forced a fumble, but Stingley is out indefinitely right now after getting a procedure done on his injured foot.
7dESPN staff
3. Evan Neal, OT, Alabama*
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 350Grade: 93 | Previous rank: 3
Neal has played all over the Alabama line, starting at guard as a freshman before sliding to right tackle in 2020 and finally left tackle this season. He mirrors and slides really well, and speed rushers struggle to get around his long frame. On run blocks, Neal excels with a quick first step and excellent angles. He shows range at the second level, which makes him perfect for a zone-blocking scheme. He also delivers blocks with power, though he is still developing his balance. His awareness stands out -- he can locate blitzes, twists and stunts and seal off the pass rush. Neal can get in trouble occasionally lunging, but his skill set makes him an easy plug-and-play in the NFL.
4. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame*
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 219Grade: 93 | Previous rank: 4
Hamilton is a nightmare matchup for offenses. He has great size and closing burst while playing all over the defense. You'll see him line up deep in coverage, over the slot and even at linebacker. Hamilton can blanket tight ends, and with solid ball skills and an ability to read the QB, he will make plays. He has three interceptions in seven games this year, along with 34 tackles and four passes broken up. Against the run, Hamilton can fill the alley, but he will need to work on his angles to avoid missing tackles. Hamilton injured his knee in October and has not yet returned.
5. Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 269Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 5
Hutchinson plays a powerful game and is truly relentless in pursuit. Hutchinson also has fast eyes and locates the ball really well. I also like his inside move, and his ability to line up on either side and drop in coverage will be valuable to NFL teams. He has 10.0 sacks (tied for seventh in the country), 9 QB hurries and 2 forced fumbles this season for the Wolverines.
6. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 310Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 7
Cross has long arms, good agility and solid quickness for a 310-pound left tackle. He's a natural knee-bender with great balance and the mirror-and-slide skills to handle double moves and speed rushers. Cross is a patient pass-blocker and can pick up blitzes and other defensive line disguises. On run-blocking plays, Cross has strong angles and above-average range, but he needs to develop his lower-body strength and push. He sees more pass-blocking snaps than most collegiate linemen in the Bulldogs' scheme, giving evaluators plenty of tape.
7. Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State*
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 193Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 8
Wilson accelerates off the line and immediately puts defensive backs on their heels. He will drop his weight at the top of his route stem, and he is extremely sudden in and out of his breaks. Wilson occasionally is a body catcher, but I've also seen him make plenty of difficult catches away from his frame and in traffic, controlling his body and adjusting to off-target throws. There is big-play ability, too, thanks to elite speed and acceleration. He tracks the deep ball well, and while he isn't going to elude many defenders laterally, he turns up field and hits the second gear so swiftly that he is trouble after the catch.
Wilson has 53 catches for 813 yards and nine touchdowns (tied for eighth in the FBS) this season, and he had arguably the best game of his career against Purdue on Saturday. He caught 10 passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns -- and added a 51-yard touchdown rush.
8. Drake London, WR, USC*
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 210Grade: 92 | Previous rank: 24
London is a big target who is versatile enough to operate out wide or in the slot. He has great contact balance, terrific body control and solid hands. London has the speed to threaten vertically, will make plays in traffic over the middle and is smooth in and out of his breaks. I really like his ability to find the soft spots in zone looks. Before he fractured his right ankle (out for the season), London had 88 catches, 1,084 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Those numbers still rank second, eighth and tied for 33rd despite the fact he hasn't played since October, and six of his eight games saw him hit 130-plus receiving yards.
9. Nakobe Dean, ILB, Georgia*
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 225Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 14
Dean is an off-ball linebacker who has good speed, suddenness, range and instincts. He can match up with running backs in coverage, but he can also go sideline to sideline in run defense. Dean will make a lot of plays in pursuit, closing on ball carriers and wrapping up on tackles. His improvement as a blitzer this season has been impressive, too. He can locate gaps and close on the QB. Dean shows an excellent motor on every single down. In 2021, Dean has 49 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 7.0 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble and 2 interceptions -- including a pick-six.
10. Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 184Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 12
Dotson is a bit undersized, but his suddenness, speed and route craftiness make him a dangerous offensive weapon. He is lightning quick in and out of his breaks, but he always seems to be in control. His tape is smooth, and his routes are sharp. Despite a smaller catch radius, his ball skills are terrific, and he will pluck the ball on the run and/or adjust to throws with excellent body control. Dotson can challenge vertically, too, but he doesn't have the size to win many 50-50 balls. If he does win, he has the field vision and wheels to produce after the catch.
Dotson has 80 catches (fourth in the nation) for 993 yards (14th) and nine touchdowns (tied for eighth) this season, and he has at least five receptions in all 10 games. In an early November win against Maryland, he exploded for 11 catches, 242 yards and three scores.
11. Devin Lloyd, ILB, Utah*
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 235Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 16
Lloyd is a versatile linebacker who moves like a safety -- he played there in high school. He has the quickness, strength and balance to slip blocks, but there is room for improvement there. Lloyd is rangy and closes well in pursuit. He will oftentimes spy quarterbacks. When turned loose as a pass-rusher, he is an effective hands fighter, and he can win against running backs when hitting an inside hole. Lloyd has 84 tackles, 7.0 sacks, 3 interceptions and 6 passes broken up -- and his 19.0 tackles for loss rank second in the country.
12. DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&MHeight: 6-4 | Weight: 290
Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 9
Leal's versatility will be valuable in the NFL. He can win as an inside pass-rusher thanks to a quick first step, an ability to penetrate gaps and solid closing speed. But he can also use his speed-to-power, length and awareness to get it done off the edge -- though he lacks the top-end speed to consistently get pressure outside. His range against the run is impressive, and he disengages quickly to make plays. Leal has 6.5 sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss, 2 QB hurries and a forced fumble in 10 games this season.
13. Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida*
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 193Grade: 91 | Previous rank: 11
Elam is instinctive and aggressive. He has loads of top-end speed (he ran track in high school), great closing burst and excellent awareness in coverage, and he is able to play in press, zone or off-man. Elam follows the ball well when it's in the air, and his on-ball production is solid. He has an interception and five passes broken up this season, and his 13 pass breakups in 2020 tied for the fourth most in the country.
14. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 220Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 27
A new No. 1 quarterback in the class! Pickett has really come on this season, currently sitting sixth in the country in Total QBR (84.0). His 3,517 passing yards are fifth, and his 32 passing TDs are fourth. He has four interceptions over 10 games, and he has completed 67.5% of his passes. His arm strength and pocket mobility are average areas in his game, but his toughness in the pocket, fast eyes on progressions and awareness in holding the safety stand out. His decision-making is improving after back-to-back seasons with 13-to-9 TD-INT ratios. And Pickett flashes some second-reaction ability, too, scrambling when he needs to create.
15. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama*
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 189Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 28
An Ohio State transfer, Williams is a big-play threat with elite speed and shiftiness as a ball carrier. When he plucks on the run, he accelerates away from defenders. Williams is still working through the nuances of route running, and he can occasionally be a body catcher, but he tracks and adjusts to balls in the air well. Williams has 1,028 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns (both top-10 numbers), and he is one of just 11 players averaging at least 20 yards per catch.
16. Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 188Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 10
Olave's ball skills are excellent, and there is plenty of speed in his game. His route running stands out, as he explodes off the line and creates separation vertically. He always seems to have a plan, and he drops his weight quickly to accelerate out of his breaks. I'd like to see him get stronger, but Olave is an extremely talented receiver prospect. He has 51 catches for 708 yards and 11 touchdowns (tied for first in the country) this season. Consider this: Olave has scored at least once in eight of nine games this season, and he has three games with at least 100 receiving yards and multiple TDs.
17. George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue*
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 270Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 17
Karlaftis played just three games in 2020 after testing positive for COVID-19, but he is healthy this season, registering 3.0 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles and a fumble-return TD in 10 games. He wins with power, holding his own at the point of attack and showing good stopping power. Karlaftis gets a good push as a power rusher and then falls inside when he is even with the QB. He has shown an ability to make an impact as an inside rusher as well.
18. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty*
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 215Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 6
Willis is terrific at extending plays and keeping his eyes downfield outside the pocket. His off-platform throws have plenty of "wow" factor, as he gets the ball out from various release points with velocity and hits tight windows. An Auburn transfer, Willis has thrown for 2,159 yards this season, with 21 passing touchdowns and nine interceptions -- including three in an early November loss to Ole Miss. His completion percentage (66.4%) and yards per completion (9.2) have both improved from last season, but he has taken 38 sacks in 2021. On the ground, Willis has 755 yards and another 10 touchdowns.
19. Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa*
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 290Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 20
Linderbaum is an effective zone blocker with great foot speed and range, and he is a solid combo blocker at the second level. At 290 pounds, he is a little on the smaller side, but he flashes good finishing power and anchors well for his size. But there is some room for improvement when it comes to staying square and in front of defenders.
20. Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State*
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 315Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 15
Petit-Frere has heavy hands, and he will often knock defenders off balance and even sometimes to the ground with his power. But he is also very quick and shows body control in pass protection. He has not given up a single sack over four seasons (including one redshirt year) at Ohio State. As a run-blocker, he smothers defenders at the point of attack and seals off the backside. He was Ohio State's right tackle in 2020 but moved over to the left side this season.
21. Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 340Grade: 90 | Previous rank: 13
Davis is a massive 3-4 nose tackle, but he has experience as a traditional defensive tackle in a 4-3, too. He has power and will bull-rush blockers back into their quarterback. But he is more of a disrupter than a finisher -- he has just 2.0 sacks in 10 games -- and lacks first-step quickness and redirect ability. Against the run, Davis does a great job with gap control and is a true space eater. Good luck moving him off his spot. Watching his tape, the thing that jumps out is how often he requires double-team attention.
22. Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 190Grade: 89 | Previous rank: 31
At his best in press-man coverage, McCreary can reroute receivers with his length and quick feet. He does get in some trouble when receivers make sharp cuts, and his run support needs to improve, but his ball skills and length lead to plays on the ball. His 12 passes defended, including a pair of interceptions, are tied for seventh in the nation. NFL teams that play a lot of press will want to take a look at McCreary's tape.
23. Kingsley "JJ" Enagbare, OLB, South Carolina
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 265Grade: 89 | Previous rank: NR
Enagbare is still raw as a pass-rusher, especially when it comes to how he uses his hands when engaged with blockers, but he has potential thanks to good burst off the edge (4.5 sacks this season and 10 QB hurries). One of the most impressive parts of his game is how often he gets his arms in passing lanes. Enagbare tends to play high, especially against the run, and he is neutralized by offensive tackles too often because of it. He is probably a situational edge rusher early in his pro career with the tools to develop into a bigger role.
24. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas*
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 225Grade: 89 | Previous rank: 18
Burks doesn't have a ton of speed, and he won't burn defensive backs off the line of scrimmage. But he is a savvy route runner who knows how to find the soft spots in zone coverage and use his frame to generate late separation. But what puts Burks among the best receivers in this class? His ball skills. He can pluck on the run with his oversized hands and does an outstanding job with body control to haul in deep passes or off-target throws. Burks is also effective after the catch, transitioning upfield, showing good vision and breaking tackles along the way. He has 815 receiving yards, and his eight touchdown catches are tied for 16th in the nation. A big matchup against Alabama's defense looms (Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET).
25. David Ojabo, OLB, Michigan*
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 250Grade: 88 | Previous rank: NR
Lining up opposite Aidan Hutchinson on Michigan's defensive front, Ojabo has really come on this season, posting 10.0 sacks (tied for seventh in the country), 10.0 tackles for loss, 6 QB hurries and 5 forced fumbles (second). He has a super-quick first step and excellent torso flexibility when coming off the edge. He has speed and hunts for the ball, but he can get stuck on blocks occasionally.
26. Matt Corral, QB, Ole Miss*
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 200Grade: 88 | Previous rank: 21
Corral has improved as a pocket passer and decision-maker in 2021, but those are still work-in-progress areas. He is tough and mobile in the pocket, and he has a nice quick release, getting the ball out on quick-game throws and leading receivers into extra yardage. Corral has 2,774 passing yards and 17 touchdown passes this season, and he notably has just two interceptions after throwing 14 of them last season. His run-game ability is also playing a big part: He has 523 yards on the ground along with 10 scores. He rushed for 195 yards in a mid-October win over Tennessee.
27. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati*
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 188Grade: 88 | Previous rank: 23
Receivers have a hard time getting off the line against Gardner. He is tall and long, and he smothers coverage underneath. Gardner has strong recognition ability in zone, is an adequate wrap-up tackler and flashes playmaking skill. He has three interceptions, a pair of sacks and a forced fumble so far in 2021. One concern: He plays almost too physical sometimes.
28. Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan*
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 305Grade: 87 | Previous rank: NR
Raimann is a former tight end who slid into a left tackle role with the Chippewas in 2020. He gets into position and walls off defenders against the run, though he will occasionally fall off a block late. As a pass-blocker, he has the ability to shut down defenders when he gets his hands inside, and thanks to great lateral mobility, he can take away the inside move. Considering he is relatively new to the offensive line, he is still raw, but Raimann's ceiling is high.
29. Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 260Grade: 87 | Previous rank: NR
McBride is the only tight end to rank inside the FBS' top 45 in receiving yards this season -- and he's No. 17 overall with 919. His 78 catches also rank sixth overall. He is versatile, lining up out wide, in the slot and in-line with Colorado State. He can be a real matchup problem for defensive coordinators. McBride is a big target who makes plays in traffic and downfield, thanks to elite ball skills. He leverages his routes well and is productive after the catch.
30. Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa*
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 321Grade: 86 | Previous rank: NR
Penning moves defenders off the ball with his power, and he moves well for his size. I'd like to see some improvement in his footwork, and he has some issues with mirroring, but Penning is an absolute mauler. He'd likely be a swing tackle to begin his NFL career, but his upside is immense.
31. Jalen Wydermyer, TE, Texas A&M*
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 255Grade: 86 | Previous rank: 19
Wydermyer has been used primarily as a Y tight end with the Aggies, but he's certainly also effective flexed outside or as an in-line blocker. He is a crisp route runner for a 6-foot-5 pass-catcher, and he gets separation at the top of his stem by using his quickness and frame. Wydermyer has a wide catch radius, showing solid body control on both throws over his head and deep balls. When it comes to blocking, he is at his best in small areas, showing enough strength to sustain. He has 474 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season.
32. Zion Johnson, OT/G, Boston College
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 316Grade: 86 | Previous rank: 30
Johnson has experience at guard and tackle, and he will prove versatile in the NFL, too, with the foot speed, range and balance to excel in zone-blocking schemes. I wouldn't classify him as a consistent mauler, but he is smooth getting set and tends to stay in front of his assignments as a pass-protector. His technique could use some refining, and he'll need to improve his ability to anchor at the point of attack.
See my full rankings for the 2022 NFL draft.
Position rankings
Quarterback1. Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
2. Malik Willis, Liberty
3. Matt Corral, Ole Miss
4. Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati
5. Sam Howell, North Carolina
6. Carson Strong, Nevada
7. Phil Jurkovec, Boston College
8. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
9. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State
10. Jake Haener, Fresno State
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