The MAC Conference has had success when it comes to NFL talent. Names such as Julian Edelman, Antonio Brown, Eric Fischer, and Ben Rothlisberger, have all come from the mid-major. This year we saw Corey Davis, a Western Michigan alumni, get selected with the 5th overall pick. That begs the question of who are the top NFL prospects out of the MAC for this season?
1. Logan Woodside, Toledo – Quite possibly the most underrated QB in the Nation, Woodside is going to shoot up draft boards rather quickly. His 49 touchdowns in 2016 were near tops in the country. With Toledo returning quite a few starters at the skill positions, look for Woodside to have an even better 2017 season.
2. Sergio Bailey II, Eastern Michigan– The 6’1 stud receiver out of EMU might be the most pro-ready WR in all the MAC Conference. With 60 receptions, 868 receiving yards, and 7 touchdowns, he’s banking on an even bigger season in 2017. While Bailey would still have a year of eligibility remaining, he’s definitely NFL bound if a repeat of 2016 occurs.
4. Ulysees Gilbert, Akron– Arguably the best LB in the MAC, Gilbert is an absolute force. Named to the Bronco Nagurski Watch List, the First-team All-MAC player is the heart of the Akron defense. Last season Gilbert recorded 122 tackles.
5. Tyler Conklin, Central Michigan– Some call Conklin the best Tight End in the Nation. The 6-4 senior is Central Michigan’s top weapon. With 42 receptions, 560 yards and 6 touchdowns last season, Conklin might surpass those numbers this year. If that’s the case, expect him to be drafted in the second round.
6. James Gilbert, Ball State– The Ball State product had quite the efficient year last season. As a Sophomore, he led the MAC Conference with 12 rushing touchdowns. Also, put up the fourth most rushing yards by a Ball State player in a single season with 1,332. It’s going to be interesting to see what he does for an encore.
7. Max Scharping, Northern Illinois– Some call this offensive lineman a first round talent. An All-MAC first teamer as a Sophomore, Scharping is the main piece to a Northen Illinois O-line that was regarded as one of the best in the country. He will move from right tackle to left tackle for his Junior year but expect the results to be the same.