When it comes to the NFL Draft, there are more than 400 players available. Many taken in rounds 5 or later may or may not make an NFL team. In this article, we look at a possible late round gem from each position group on offense. Which one will make a squad?
Quarterback
C.J. Beathard – Iowa, 6’2” 215lbs
Beathard is a pro style QB. With the way that colleges run their offenses, these are hard to find. In 39 games for Iowa, Beathard threw for 5500+ yards. Additionally, he is mobile and has tremendous footwork. Both inside and outside the pocket. He will most likely be a backup his whole career. Then, not many Tom Brady’s often come along.
Projected Round – 6 or 7
Running Back
Aaron Jones – UTEP, 5’9” 208lbs
Jones was the fourth leading rusher in the FBS with 1,773 yards. He was also a first team ALL-Conference USA. This was after coming off an ankle injury that cost him the year before. In fact, he has a great first step. Let alone the quickness and speed to leave defenders in the dust.
Projected Round – 7
Wide Receiver
Robert Davis – Georgia State, 6’3” 219lbs
Davis dominated the stats sheet for the Georgia State Panthers. He is exactly what scouts are looking for. In addition to his size, Davis possesses all the intangibles for the position. Robert Davis is also an effective route runner. Overall, he is a big-bodied WR with tremendous production and physicality. Finally, he has experience with playing in a pro-style offense.
Projected Rounds 6 or 7
Tight End
Michael Roberts – Toledo, 6’4” 270lbs
When you see 6’4” and 270lbs, you rarely think of the TE position. However, Roberts is an athlete. His hands are so big they swallow balls around him. His size is deceiving making him a solid pass catching option. However, he will need some work in the run game. Thus the reason for making him a later round selection.
Projected Rounds – 6 or 7
Offensive Line
Dan Skipper – Arkansas 6’10” 309lbs
Skipper is a mountain of a man. One look at him and you would think he was a guard and not a tackle. Considering his size, teams may ask him to move to guard in the NFL. Yet, he is athletic enough to play tackle. In all, he is a project that may or may not make an NFL squad.
Projected Rounds – 5 thru 7
That takes care of some possible late round gems on offense. Many teams have benefitted from late round success. Will your team benefit in 2017?
Keep an eye out for the possible defensive late round gems.
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