Spring Football 2021: 21 Impact True Freshmen to Watch This Fall

TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State

More and more, true freshmen are arriving on campus and making a large impact in the world of college football. Freshmen have come on and played big snaps at schools competing for National Titles, such as Alabama and Clemson last year, and even those with less ambitious goals in mind. Knowing this, I decided to break down 21 impact true freshmen to watch this upcoming fall.

(Due to COVID, some freshmen were essentially allowed a "free" year where they could play, but it didn't count against their collegiate eligibility. These players were not included; only players in the Class of 2021 were eligible for the list.)

1. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State

With the Buckeyes forced to replace both Justin Fields and Trey Sermon, don't be shocked if Ryan Day chooses to lean on the ground attack, at least early on. Master Teague will get the first crack at No. 1 back duties, but don't be surprised if TreVeyon Henderson supplants him. There are some that think Henderson was good enough as a high school senior to start for Ohio State last fall, even with Sermon on the roster.

2. Will Shipley, RB, Clemson

Possibly the biggest question on Clemson's roster is at running back, as Travis Etienne departs after three-plus tremendous seasons with the Tigers. Lyn-J Dixon will operate as the "veteran" of the RB room, but Will Shipley is a five-star recruit who has explosiveness similar to Etienne's.

3. Ty Thompson, QB, Oregon

Tyler Shough and Anthony Brown split time as Oregon quarterback in 2020, but Shough is now off to Texas Tech. Brown is the favorite to start and the former Boston College transfer has the experience, but Duck fans are excited about Ty Thompson. He's likely got an NFL future, and has already drawn some comparisons to former Oregon QB Dennis Dixon.

4. Agiye Hall, WR, Alabama

With both DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle off to the NFL, Alabama needs to retool at receiver. Adding Ohio State transfer Jameson Williams helps, but don't be surprised if a true freshman also gets a chance. Agiye Hall flashed during the spring and appears ready to make an immediate impact.

5. Nyland Green, CB, Georgia

The goal once again in Athens is to finally take the next step and overcome Alabama in the league, but if there is one thing that could hold them back it's the secondary. Several key Bulldog defensive backs are gone to the NFL and even with the addition of West Virginia transfer Tykee Smith, UGA will likely need reinforcements. In comes Nyland Green, a four-star from inside the state who should immediately see snaps.

6. Ethan Calvert, LB, Utah

Utah is never going to be a place that recruits at an elite level, but Kyle Whittingham and his staff have lured away a few fairly big names in the last several recruiting cycles. This year it was linebacker Ethan Calvert, who they kept away from numerous other Pac-12 programs including UCLA, where his older brother Bo plays at.

7. Thomas Fidone, TE, Nebraska

There's a lot of blame to go around for Nebraska's offensive struggles under Scott Frost, but the lack of reliable pass-catchers was obvious in the abbreviated 2020 season. The 'Huskers will still need some help at wide out, but tight end should be in good hands with Thomas Fidone. At 6'5", 225 pounds with speed and great hands, Fidone already looks like an NFL prospect.                   

8. Shadrach Banks, WR, Texas A&M

Texas A&M is going to lean on the ground game early and often in 2021, but that doesn't mean that the passing attack won't still need to play a role in College Station. The Aggies are loaded at tight end but surprisingly thin at receiver, meaning a name like Shadrach Banks could see snaps right away. Banks is a Houston native who is a little more versatile than past Jimbo Fisher receivers.

9. Trevin Wallace, LB, Kentucky

No matter what happens with Kentucky's new-look offense, led by first-year OC Liam Coen, they should be well-stocked defensively. Mark Stoops continues to craft modest talent into future NFL players and his next project should be linebacker Trevin Wallace. Wallace is more talented at this point in his career than past UK linebackers, as he earned five-star consideration from 247 Sports.

10. Behren Morton, QB, Texas Tech

Although Oregon transfer Tyler Shough arrives in Lubbock, the Red Raiders could still host a wide-open quarterback competition. Shough and incumbent starter Henry Colombi are the early favorites, but true frosh Behren Morton could push them. He's got the raw arm talent of past Red Raider greats, including Patrick Mahomes and Graham Harrell.

11. Kalen King, CB, Penn State

Penn State had an abundance of defensive issues during the frustrating 2020 campaign but most notably has been an average to bad pass defense. If they have any chance at pushing Ohio State atop the East Division, they need better play from the secondary. Enter Kalen King, who comes to Happy Valley from Detroit with his twin brother, Kobe.

12. Bryce Steele, LB, Boston College

Boston College has a nice tradition of developing the linebacker position, going all the way back to the Luke Kuechly days at Chestnut Hill. Steele isn't going to be Kuechly, but he arrives at a time where the Eagles are reloading at the position, which gives the North Carolina product a real opportunity in Year One.

13. James BlackStrain, WR, Georgia Tech

As Georgia Tech continues their transition away from the triple-option to a modern offensive attack, they need improved play from their receivers. Losing Jalen Camp hurts in a big way, but James BlackStrain is an early enrollee who earned attention in the spring. Already a crisp route runner for his age, BlackStrain should see targets early.

14. Preston Stone, QB, SMU

Although former Oklahoma transfer Tanner Mordecai is the favorite to take over for the departed Shane Buechele, don't be surprised if fellow newcomer Preston Stone gets some looks. A four-star from the local Dallas area, Stone is not your average SMU quarterback recruit. He is an ideal fit in the explosive Mustang offense, and signed with them over several big-name Power Five programs.

15. Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State

Perhaps no school in the nation is producing elite pass rushers at the rate of Ohio State, who has sent both Bosa brothers, Chase Young, and Sam Hubbard to the NFL in just the past decade. The next great OSU end is five-star Jack Sawyer, who has already drawn comparisons to Nick Bosa. Although most of the attention in the spring game was given to the Buckeye offense, Sawyer impressed.

16. Devin Neal, RB, Kansas

Jayhawk star tailback Pooka Williams Jr. is now officially playing on Sundays, forcing the new coaching staff to reload at the position. Devin Neal had originally signed to play for Les Miles but remains on with the new staff under head man Lance Leipold, who should lean on the run early as they try and overload this offense.

17. Dominic Lovett, WR, Missouri

A late flip to Missouri from Arizona State right before the Early Signing Day, Dominic Lovett was a really good get for Eli Drinkwitz and his staff. With top wide out Damon Hazelton off to the NFL after a one-year holdover in Columbia, Lovett and fellow newcomer Mookie Cooper should see opportunities right away. If not as a receiver, Lovett should also play a key role on special teams.

18. Nick Haberer, P, Washington State

With record-setting punter Oscar Draguicevich III signing an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers, Washington State will be forced to start anew at the punter position. Nick Haberer continues the Australian punter pipeline, working with Prokick Australia over the last few years, a program that has produced five Ray Guy Award winners. Haberer enrolled early in the spring and should have a good shot to take over starting duties in 2021.

19. Rocco Spindler, OL, Notre Dame

Few schools in the nation are producing elite offensive linemen at the rate of Notre Dame, a trend that should continue with the addition of a pair of highly touted newcomers Blake Fisher and Rocco Spindler. Spindler, the nation's No. 3 guard, will see snaps right away due to a thin ND interior O-Line and the true frosh, who has earned the moniker "Monster of the Midwest" impressed in the spring.

20. Roc Taylor, WR, Memphis

Tennessee's new coaching staff decided to drop three-star athlete Roc Taylor from their 2021 Class upon arrival, forcing him to head to Memphis. UT's loss is the Tigers' gain, as Taylor should provide immediate help at either receiver or tight end. It's still unclear who will win the Memphis QB job this year, but whoever does should use the freshman in unique ways.

21. Maason Smith, DL, LSU

A consensus five-star recruit from inside the state of Louisiana, Maason Smith should continue the tradition of elite LSU interior D-Linemen. Scouts have raved that Smith already looks like a seasoned SEC veteran and expect him to see the field in 2021, even at a position where the Tigers are fairly deep. 

NBA Mock Draft 2021: Edition 1 (Early Edition)

Cade Cunningham, Oklahoma State to Houston

It's been just about half a year since the extremely atypical 2020 NBA Draft, but already the 2021 cycle is kicking into high gear. Many of the big names have announced their decisions to go pro long ago, but there are several waiting on feedback to determine whether they will keep their name in the Draft or return to school. We don't know the draft order just yet, but the lottery is already beginning to shape up. Here's my first crack at a mock draft for the 2021 season:

1. Houston Rockets

Cade Cunningham, G, Oklahoma State

The consensus No. 1 overall selection is Oklahoma State's Cade Cunningham, who didn't disappoint in his lone collegiate season. He led the Cowboys to a four seed before being upset by Oregon State in the second round, showcasing scoring ability, passing skills, and defensive prowess. If Houston does indeed win the lottery, Cunningham immediately becomes the new face of the franchise.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder

Evan Mobley, F/C, USC

Evan Mobley is the type of new-school big man that NBA teams covet. He's a seven-footer with a feathery touch around the rim, but he can also run the floor and shoot the three at an impressive rate. Mobley will have to add some weight to survive in the NBA but the 19-year old has just about every raw skill needed to be a productive big for a long time in the pros.

3. Detroit Pistons

Jalen Suggs, G, Gonzaga

Even before his shocking last-second shot in the Final Four to overcome UCLA, Jalen Suggs had asserted himself as one of the best basketball players in college basketball. He's a superb athlete and competitor, and you can tell he played quarterback in high school with some of the passes he's able to make. Detroit needs just about everything on this roster, so this type of talent is a good starting point.

4. Orlando Magic

Jalen Green, G/F, G League

Jalen Green is a fascinating case study on the differences between college basketball and the G League route. He opted to gain professional experience by spending a year in the G League and played well, but you wonder if he would've gained further exposure and recognition by playing college ball. He's still likely to land somewhere in the Top 5, but his chances of rising to No. 1 pick territory are slim.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers

Jonathan Kuminga, G/F, G League

Another player to opted to head pro instead of playing college ball, Jonathan Kuminga is an intriguing prospect. He's a wiry, 6'8" forward with elite athleticism and the physical gifts to be a superstar at the next level. However, he's still incredibly raw in most areas of his game, but you would expect that from a kid who is still just 18. He's worthy of a high selection, but he's the type of guy that will need to land into a favorable situation to really succeed.

6. Golden State Warriors

Keon Johnson, G, Tennessee

There's a drop-off after the Top 5 selections here, but it's unclear just how significant that drop-off is, at least not yet. Keon Johnson could still offer plenty of value at pick six, as the former Tennessee Volunteer flashed a nice skillset and can play both ways. The Warriors received this selection because the Timberwolves are likely to drop out of the first three picks and they could certainly use fresh young talent.

7. Toronto Raptors

Davion Mitchell, G, Baylor

Mitchell's play down the stretch was a major reason why Baylor ended the season as National Champions and he played his way into the lottery. After a surprisingly disappointing season, the Raptors could use somebody with Mitchell's scoring ability, especially in isolation. He doesn't have the high ceiling of others in this Draft, but also has a higher floor.

8. Sacramento Kings

Scottie Barnes, G/F, Florida State

Playing on a veteran Florida State team, Scottie Barnes didn't get as much national attention as other freshman this cycle. However, he still did enough to likely assure himself as a Top 10 pick, particularly with how much this Draft drops off after those No. 5. Barnes will have to work on his jump shot, but he has an ideal frame and is a tremendous defender.

9. Orlando Magic

Jalen Johnson, F, Duke

Jalen Johnson's mid-season opt-out at Duke caused national headlines for the timing of the decision, but the former five-star recruit still projects as a lottery selection. He was awfully streaky during his time in college, but offers elite athleticism and other tools you don't always see from forwards his age. Johnson's a terrific ball-handler for his size and a decent passer. 

10. New Orleans Pelicans

Franz Wagner, G/F, Michigan

Although he technically wasn't the "star" on Michigan's No. 1 seed 2020-21 team, Franz Wagner offered the most as an NBA prospect. For one, he has great size and is incredibly long, with the ability to play and defend nearly any position. He also possesses a smooth offensive game and can be a strong shooter, although consistency has been a problem.

11. Washington Wizards

Moses Moody, G/F, Arkansas

After a solid one year stop at Arkansas, Moses Moody is off to the NBA and likely to be a lottery selection. He fits perfectly into the modern NBA as a 6'5" wing with a seven-foot wingspan who can defend multiple positions. He wasn't always known as a shooter throughout his playing career, but shot 36% from three on the year. Moody could be the long-term replacement for Bradley Beal, as trade rumors continue to swirl around the high-scoring guard.

12. Indiana Pacers

James Bouknight, G, UConn

Even as he struggled through an injury-plagued season while UConn dealt with multiple COVID pauses, James Bouknight developed into one of the Big East's best players. He has proven to possess a diverse offensive game with a polished jumper and solid passing abilities. He'll have to bulk up to survive at the next level but the tools are in place.

13. San Antonio Spurs

Corey Kispert, G/F, Gonzaga

Jalen Suggs received plenty of attention for his play on Gonzaga this season and rightfully so, but Kispert wrapped up his time in Spokane as one of the most accomplished players in school history. Kispert racked up the awards over the last two seasons, including winning Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year in '20-'21, while demonstrating a smooth offensive game. Being 22 at the time of the Draft, teams might drop him slightly, but he's good enough to land somewhere in the mid-first round.

14. Memphis Grizzlies

Alperen Sengun, C, Turkey

The international class for the 2021 NBA Draft is really fascinating. There's no real star of the class, but several players could work themselves into the late lottery, or even possibly the Top 10. Alperen Sengun is one of them, a Turkish big who is starting to gain attention. At 6'10", 240 pounds he looks like a professional center but has some of the best footwork and touch around the rim you'll see for somebody of his age.

15. Charlotte Hornets

Kai Jones, F/C, Texas

A lot of attention on Texas was given to true freshman Greg Brown, a former high-profile recruit, but it is his Longhorn counterpart that is likely to go higher, Kai Jones. Jones is an elite athlete for the position and a superb rim runner, although he will need to develop other parts of his game. He reminds me a lot of a younger, explosive DeAndre Jordan.

16. Golden State Warriors

Ziaire Williams, F, Stanford

It's not all the time we see someone of Ziaire Williams' caliber head to Stanford for one season of college basketball, but he put up solid enough numbers to land somewhere around the mid-first. He's long and athletic with some of the natural tools to be a real offensive force. Williams will need to become a better shooter to be worthy of this selection, but could play a Jerami Grant-esque role on an NBA roster.

17. Boston Celtics

Usman Garuba, F, Spain

A combo forward with a 7'2" wingspan, Usman Garuba could be a formidable defensive presence at the next level. Although his shot mechanics aren't perfect, he has a fairly nice jump shot and shoots them at nice percentages. He could bring a nice developmental piece to this Boston frontcourt and he is just 19 years old.

18. Oklahoma City Thunder

Tre Mann, G, Florida

If you're looking for a prospect to pay attention to that could fall out of the lottery or even possibly the Top 20, keep an eye on Tre Mann. The Florida product was a knockdown shooter in college, but also is a skilled ball-handler and tremendous athlete. Defensively he needs work, but the offensive pieces are eye-catching.

19. Atlanta Hawks

Cam Thomas, G, LSU

Isolation scoring is obviously crucial in the NBA, which works out just fine for LSU's Cam Thomas. In just one season in Baton Rouge, he evolved into a dominant iso scorer who could knock down some of the toughest shots you'll see a college player hit. I'm not sure what his ceiling is compared to others in this cycle, but players with his skills don't come around often.

20. Houston Rockets

Isaiah Jackson, F/C, Kentucky

After landing Cade Cunningham early on, Houston goes after a traditional big in the form of Isaiah Jackson. Jackson has the defensive awareness and length to evolve into an elite rim protector and while he's somewhat limited on offense, he could be an effective rim runner. There's a fairly good chance Jackson is the first Kentucky Wildcat off the board in the 2021 NBA Draft, a far cry from some of the best John Calipari years.

21. New York Knicks

Sharife Cooper, PG, Auburn

Following their best season in a long time (no matter what happens in the postseason) it will be interesting to see how aggressive the Knicks are over the off-season. They might swing at some big-name free agents, or instead choose to continue developing their young talent. Either way, Sharife Cooper would be a valuable addition as a flashy, high-scoring point guard. I'm not sure how ideal of a fit he would be with Tom Thibodeau, but he's worth the risk in the later-half of the first.

22. Los Angeles Lakers

Josh Christopher, G/F, Arizona State

Playing on a very disappointing Arizona State team, Josh Christopher didn't receive much attention despite being a big-name recruit. His numbers in Tempe weren't bad, but he struggled to shoot the ball and was maddeningly inconsistent. Christopher is still worth a flier somewhere in the 20s and the Lakers don't have much to lose.

23. New York Knicks

Greg Brown, F/C, Texas

A wiry athlete you can throw down jaw-dropping slams, Greg Brown garners a lot of attention. In his lone season with Shaka Smart at Texas, Brown had his moments, but still showed he has to further develop his all-around game. This is another name you're drafting because of his potential and overall upside and he could learn a lot from Julius Randle and the other pieces in the Knick frontcourt.

24. Houston Rockets

Josh Giddey, PG, Australia

With their third selection of the first round, this one from Milwaukee, Houston again adds a nice backcourt piece. Giddey, who played for the Adelaide 36ers of the NBL, is a certified playmaker with a great feel for the game and general command of the offense. Don't expect him to score 30 a game, but he is a traditional, pass-first PG.

25. Denver Nuggets

Johnny Juzang, F, UCLA

Johnny Juzang's dominating play down the stretch for UCLA this season was a major reason for their Final Four run and he could sneak somewhere in the first round. He's always been a great scorer, demonstrating a nice mix of athleticism with toughness and the ability to fight through contact. A team like Denver could definitely use his scoring punch off the bench.

26. Los Angeles Clippers

Jaden Springer, G, Tennessee

Another former five-star recruit who put up solid numbers during his lone season in Knoxville, Jaden Springer should have an interesting range. There are some that view him as a lottery pick, but there also remains a chance he could slide into the very end of the first round depending on how the Draft shapes up. Springer is an excellent two-way player with excellent defensive abilities, but you wonder if he has the athleticism to hang with some of the elite backcourt players in the NBA.

27. Philadelphia 76ers

Chris Duarte, G, Oregon

After a strong freshman campaign in Eugene, Chris Duarte showed significant growth in his sophomore season for an Oregon team that made the Sweet 16. He proved to be much more efficient offensively, shooting the ball at a higher clip and making better decisions with the ball. Duarte is the type of steady combo guard that offers depth in the late first to a contender.

28. Phoenix Suns

B.J. Boston, G/F, Kentucky

Prior to the 2020-21 season, B.J. Boston came to school as a former huge name on the recruiting trail and likely Top 10 selection. He endured a frustrating season for a Kentucky team that obviously struggled, as his field goal percentage came in at just 36% and he struggled to shoot the three. He still has a lot of the physical tools you look for and you hope he can regain his shot in the long-term. Boston's still worth a flier in the late first and the Suns have never shied away from Kentucky products.

29. Utah Jazz

Day'Ron Sharpe, F/C, UNC

Although Day'Ron Sharpe primarily came off the bench during his freshman season in Chapel Hill he still flashed enough to garner NBA attention. At 6'11", 265 pounds he's a load to handle in the low post, but also demonstrated soft hands and a feathery touch around the rim. Sharpe has to work on his conditioning and further develop but a low-pressure situation like Utah would be ideal for him.

30. Brooklyn Nets

Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, F, Villanova

Even on a star-studded roster like Brooklyn, you can never use enough quality role players. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl should have no troubles filling that role as a well-rounded, polished player who shoots the ball at a nice clip. He's most likely a small forward at the next level but has enough size and length to essentially fill a combo forward role.

Spring Football 2021: Ten Players Ready for the Big "Sophomore Leap"

Will Rogers, Mississippi State

Breakout players are a reliable part of every sport, but even more so in college athletics, where players and teams rotate and evolve faster than most professional teams. Players coming from seemingly nowhere and proving themselves on the big stage is a major part of what keeps college football so fresh and exciting every single season. It's incredibly difficult to predict which players are going to eventually breakout, but usually there's a good list of candidates based on what teams are losing, which players are moving up the depth chart, and which schools typically produce talent at each position group. Many players have their respective breakouts their second year on campus, after they become acclimated to the environment of college football and ready to show what they can do. In the past, I've foreseen names like Rashod Bateman and Ja'Marr Chase go from young players with potential, to legitimate superstars. In that spirit I will be unveiling my list of ten players ready to make the "sophomore leap" that oftentimes happens in the world of college football. Not every player on this list will boom, but we can still make educated guesses on a few that will have a major impact on their teams in the 2021 season.

(*Note: This list will include all players who are entering their second seasons on college campus in 2021. Due to redshirt rules and COVID-19 eligibility rules, some might be listed as true freshman or redshirt freshman on official rosters.)

Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina

In just under three years on the job, Mack Brown has elevated the talent level at North Carolina in a big way. He has a quarterback, Sam Howell, who is likely to be a first-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft and a host of former blue-chip recruits on his roster, including Tony Grimes, Myles Murphy, and Desmond Evans. The Tar Heels appear to be the greatest threat to Clemson inside the ACC, but in order to fulfill their potential, they need more production from a receiver position that was hit hard by attrition over the off-season. Top targets Dazz Newsome and Dyami Brown both moved on to the NFL and while vet Beau Corrales is an important returnee, all eyes turn to a pair of sophomores, Josh Downs and Khafre Brown. They'll likely take over as two of the top pass-catchers for Howell on the roster, and look to open up an offense that will consistently have big-play potential. While Brown helped lead the way with 337 yards receiving in 2020, my bet is that Downs has the best chance to have a huge '21 season. After a fairly quiet regular season, he showed what he could do with a big performance in the bowl loss to Texas A&M, with four receptions for 91 yards and two touchdowns. Brown is more of your prototypical, consistent wide out, Downs is the type of weapon that has the speed to take the top of defenses and feature Howell's massive arm. He'll have to develop some form of consistency in 2021, but all the tools are there for a huge campaign.

Alfred Collins, DL, Texas

Steve Sarkisian and the new Texas coaching staff have plenty of pressure on them entering 2021, but there's no question that the program is laced with future NFL talent. Most of the attention will undoubtedly fall on the offensive side of the ball, but the defense deserves plenty of attention as well for new DC Pete Kwiatkowski, who comes down from Washington. One of the players sure to feature in Kwiatkowski's defense is sophomore Alfred Collins, a former five-star recruit who played in all ten Longhorn games a season ago. Collins came to school a shade under 300 pounds and built as a strong-side defensive end but quickly bulked up since coming to Austin, eventually shifting inside to defensive tackle. Despite the new poundage, Collins is a freak athlete who made one of the most impressive plays you will ever see from a defensive tackle in this last year's Alamo Bowl, with a one-handed INT off a screen. With his elite athleticism and instincts, he should play major snaps in a Texas defense looking for star-power. If he does indeed stick firm at tackle, his quickness and explosiveness off the line should be a real problem for Big 12 interior offensive linemen.

Zach Evans, RB, TCU

If you follow college football recruiting, you'll almost definitely know the name Zach Evans. He was the No. 16 ranked prospect in the Class of 2020 with perhaps the craziest recruitment in the history of CFB recruiting. Evans signed a letter of intent to go to Georgia in late December of 2019 but never officially announced his commitment. Under a month later, UGA had released from the letter of intent and Evans once again re-opened his recruitment, taking official visits to several schools throughout the Southeast. After a long, drawn-out process that included him in serious discussions with Ole Miss, Florida, and more, Evans eventually quietly enrolled at TCU last May. There's been questions about maturity and his level of focus on the game, but nobody has questioned his talent. In a short stint with the Horned Frogs, Evans made do on that talent, tallying 415 yards in a shortened season, despite being lower on the depth chart. He averaged 7.7 yards per carry in his true freshman campaign and displayed his promise with a 130-yard, two-touchdown showing against Louisiana Tech in their regular season finale. Evans is likely to start 2021 atop the TCU depth chart on a team that ended last season on fire. In the wide-open Big 12, he's likely to see plenty of opportunities to show what he can do and as long as he keeps his focus, he should do serious damage.

Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

Much like Evans and Collins, Darnell Washington is a former high-profile recruit from the Class of 2020 who showed enough promise in the pandemic-shortened season to feel good about what he can do in '21. Washington ended up starting seven of UGA's 10 games, tallying seven receptions for 166 yards. He certainly wasn't a major part of the Bulldog offense, but this was a group that struggled to through the ball for most of the season's first-half, until J.T. Daniels was inserted as staring quarterback. Like others, he finished his first season on campus strong, with three catches against a stingy Cincinnati defense in their Peach Bowl win. As Georgia prepares for 2021, it looks to open up their passing attack, especially now that Daniels is healthy and ready to go, and offensive coordinator Todd Monken has had a full off-season to install his offense. However, the Bulldogs will be without their most talented pass-catcher, George Pickens, at least to begin 2021 after he tore his ACL in the spring. Without his services, the Bulldogs will lean on some familiar names, including Kearis Jackson and Jermaine Burton, but also some new faces, such as Washington. Despite being built like a tight end at 6'7", 265 pounds, Washington's athleticism and hands are more reminiscent of a physical wide receiver. He has the chance to grow into a security blanket for Daniels, or at the least a dynamic red zone presence.

Jalen Berger, RB, Wisconsin

Heading into the shortened 2020 Big Ten season, there was some question as to who would replace record-setting tailback Jonathan Taylor in Madison. Holdovers Garrett Groshek and Nakia Watson were going to factor into the offense, but Badger fans were intrigued at the potential of true freshman Jalen Berger. Wisconsin managed to hold off late recruiting runs from Rutgers and UCLA to land the four-star prospect who, like Taylor, was from the state of New Jersey. After not seeing action in the first few weeks of the 2020 season, Berger came on strong down the stretch, finishing with 301 yards and two touchdowns in four games. Now that Groshek is graduated and Watson transferred away, there is no question that Berger will enter next fall as the go-to guy for the Badger offense. There's absolutely no doubt that this is a school that produces running backs at historical rates and the sophomore is next in line. Matching Taylor's production will be difficult, but Berger already is slightly more polished than several past UW greats at his age. He'll hope to lead a Badger offense that struggled in the season's second half last fall.

Clarence Lewis, CB, Notre Dame

Most of the attention given to the Notre Dame secondary so far this off-season and likely going forward will be on safety Kyle Hamilton, and for good reason. Hamilton enters his junior campaign as one of the best defenders anywhere in college football and a likely Top 10 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, while Hamilton is incredibly rangy, he can't cover every single opposing receiver. The Irish will need other pieces to step up in the secondary, including names like Clarence Lewis. Lewis entered college as a fairly unheralded recruit from New Jersey, a three-star prospect likely to be a depth guy in 2020. He responded by playing right away in ND's opener against Duke and then received his first start a week later against South Florida. Lewis ended up playing in nine games for the Irish and played a key role, totaling 33 total tackles and leading the team with seven pass deflections. The coaching staff has raved about Lewis during the early off-season period and it's likely he starts at corner in his sophomore season. Hamilton is still likely to earn more attention, but Lewis and his play may end up being more important for the Irish and their Playoff aspirations.

Will Rogers, QB, Mississippi State

The Mike Leach era in Starkville began with a bang when Mississippi State went into Death Valley and upset defending National Champion LSU. At the time, former Stanford QB K.J. Costello was handed the reigns to Leach's "Air Raid" offense and he went wild, passing for 623 yards and five touchdowns, which was enough to earn very early Heisman consideration. That early success trailed off incredibly quick, as Mississippi State lost their next four games and Costello was subsequently benched. Instead, Leach turned to a true freshman to lead his aggressive attack, Will Rogers. Despite being thrown into the SEC at such a young age, Rogers responded over his six starts. He was the first MSU freshman to post multiple 300-yard games and the first MSU freshman to register three consecutive games of at least 30 completions. He demonstrated excellent poise and feel for the game despite his youth and the raw tools to be a very successful college QB. Now, he gets a more normal off-season under his belt and another opportunity to run an offense that usually puts up silly passing numbers. He seems like a good bet to have a very strong 2021 season, even in an SEC West that should, once again, be very difficult.

Akheem Mesidor, DL, West Virginia

West Virginia was quietly one of the more surprising teams in the Big 12 in 2020, going 6-4 overall and posting a .500 conference record in Neal Brown's second season at the helm. Much of that can be credited to a defense that ranked 21st out of 128 FBS teams in points allowed per game, a far cry from the Dana Holgorsen era, when the Mountaineers were consistently among the worst defensive teams in the league. The aggressive, chaotic defense consistently put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, thanks in large part not only to the Still brothers, Dante and Darius, but also true freshman Akheem Mesidor. The Canadian came to Morgantown and immediately made an impact, playing all 10 games and finishing with 6.5 TFL and 5.5 sacks. Now, even greater things are expected and hoped for, as West Virginia must replace Darius Stills, who is now with the Las Vegas Raiders. Mesidor, who entered college under 260 pounds, has already bulked up to nearly 280 in one year of college ball and should get even bigger with a full off-season under his belt. Rumors out of spring practice and workouts are that he is ready for a monster season and while offensive linemen may focus on him more now that Darius is gone, Dante remains in the fold to also command some attention. Don't be surprised if Mesidor earns All-Big 12 honors and becomes a crucial cog of a really strong Mountaineer defense in 2021.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

I contemplated leaving Jaxon Smith-Njigba off this list because of how stacked Ohio State's receiver room is entering 2021, but the transfer of veteran Jameson Williams to Alabama could open up targets for the sophomore. Unsurprisingly, Smith-Njigba was a highly touted recruit who arrived alongside the nation's No. 1 wide out, Julian Fleming, but yet saw the field earlier than him during the 2020 season. His stat-line of 10 receptions for 49 yards doesn't exactly jump out at you, but Smith-Njigba displayed polished route running abilities, soft hands, and excellent body control. He's not as big as Fleming or some of the other wide outs on the Buckeye roster, but could grow into a formidable presence in the slot, or wherever head coach Ryan Day decides to use him at. The toughest part for him might just be seeing the field this upcoming season. Not only does he have to compete for targets with Fleming, but also established veterans such as Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. Even so, this is the type of playmaker that has the chance to be special, and the type of talent that has helped Ohio State continue their dominance atop the Big Ten for so long now.

Theo Johnson, TE, Penn State

Penn State had a frustrating 2020 season, to say the least. They opened the year with a heartbreaking, controversial loss to Indiana and then began 0-5 before winning their final four games. I feel confident that PSU will be able to get back on track in 2021 for several reasons; for one they have a cemented roster in place without the possibility of opt-outs, they have a favorable schedule, and they upgraded at offensive coordinator by replacing Kirk Ciarrocca with former Texas OC Mike Yurcich. Yurcich has gained a reputation as an aggressive playmaker sort of in the mold of former Penn State OC Joe Moorhead, who parlayed his success into the Mississippi State head coaching job. The Nittany Lions do already have a stud receiver on the outside in Jahan Dotson, but they'll need more to run this offense the way Yurcich intends. Enter redshirt freshman Theo Johnson, who takes over at tight end for Pat Freiermuth, who is now in the NFL. Johnson saw limited action in his first season in Happy Valley, but has all the tools to be a matchup nightmare. He's 6'6" with long arms, but runs extremely fast for his size and has quality hands. I like him to continue the recent tradition of impressive Nittany Lion tight ends, which now includes Freiermuth and Mike Gesicki before him. The big question for Johnson is whether he has a quarterback to get him the ball. Sean Clifford had a frustrating end to 2019 and really struggled in 2020, putting pressure on him and inviting a possible QB competition heading into fall camp.

2022 NFL Draft Sneak Peek

Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati

Even though the No. 1 overall pick was known throughout pretty much the entire process, the 2021 NFL Draft was still full of mystery and intrigue. With a bunch of opt-outs to contend with and no true NFL Combine, teams were forced to operate and evaluate differently than in previous years. The hope and expectation is that the 2022 NFL Draft will be normal, or at least as close to "normal" as you can get in this day and age. It may be a whole year away, but it's always a fun activity to break down some names that should dominate the NFL Draft conversation throughout this next fall and spring. Per usual, there's plenty of offensive playmakers to keep an eye on and this next year should also have a nice influx of pass rushers, after a relatively down 2021 cycle.

Quarterbacks

Sam Howell, North Carolina

A former high-profile recruit who has lived up to the billing so far, Sam Howell won the quarterback job immediately as a true freshman in Chapel Hill and has put up prolific numbers. As a freshman, he threw for 3,641 yards and 38 touchdowns and then put up very similar numbers in 2020 despite a shortened schedule (3,586 yards, 30 touchdowns). In his two seasons of college football, he's shown excellent pure arm talent and the mobility to move around in the pocket very well. Howell has shown development as a quarterback, improving his completion percentage from Year One to Year Two and showing improved decision-making. At 6'1", he's a little bit on the small side for an NFL quarterback but that shouldn't count too much against him, considering all of his other strengths. 2021 should be a big season for him, as UNC could enter as a preseason Top 10 team. He'll also have to show he can make do without several of his top receivers from a year ago, including Dyami Brown and Dazz Newsome, now both in the NFL.

Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma

After seeing the field sparingly in 2019 as a backup to Jalen Hurts, Spencer Rattler took the reigns of the Oklahoma offense this past fall. After some early growing pains, he ended the season playing just about as well as any quarterback in the nation, including a three-touchdown performance in the Cotton Bowl victory over Florida. Even greater things are expected from Rattler in 2021, thanks to a more normal off-season and a healthier OU receiver group. His huge arm is an ideal fit for this offense, but he will need to polish off other elements of his game. His decision-making can still be faulty at times and he still struggles to recognize different defenses and coverages. Learning from Lincoln Riley is a fine place to start and the raw tools are in place.

Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati

By the time the 2022 NFL Draft swings around, Desmond Ridder will most likely be the most accomplished signal-caller in the cycle. He already ranks as the winningest QB in Cincinnati history, going 30-5 as starter, and has amassed 6,905 yards and 67 touchdowns in that span. He's caught the attention of NFL folks not only because of the experience, but also his mix of size (6'4") and athleticism. He's not exactly a speedster, but can still create plays with his legs thanks to his shiftiness and vision. He likely would've been a Day One or Two selection in the 2021 class but opted to stay put for one more year. If he once again leads Cincinnati to a New Year's Six bowl, he'll almost definitely be one of the first quarterbacks taken in 2022.

Others to Watch

Brock Purdy, Iowa State

Kedon Slovis, USC

J.T. Daniels, Georgia

Matt Corral, Ole Miss

Malik Willis, Liberty

Tanner Morgan, Minnesota

Carson Strong, Nevada

Runningbacks

Breece Hall, Iowa State

Breece Hall emerged as a legitimate Heisman finalist during the 2020 campaign, leading all of Power Five football with 1,572 yards. He showed just about every trait that an NFL team could want in a young running back, with a nice blend of power and speed. Hall excels through contact, generating 935 yards after contact in the '20 season. He's also a solid pass blocker and could even feature as a pass-catcher in the backfield if necessary. Iowa State is likely to enter the 2021 season with possibly the highest expectations the program has ever had, and Hall is a major reason for that. 

Isaiah Spiller, Texas A&M

Following an injury to former A&M tailback Jashaun Corbin, Isaiah Spiller was forced into duty as a true freshman in 2019. He responded with 946 yards in his first season on campus, before following that up with an even bigger 2020, totaling 1,036 yards during the shortened season. Much like Hall, Spiller is considered more of a power runner that would work well as a workhorse option in the pros, but he actually times in at a 4.58 40-yard dash. He's not going to fly past NFL defenders, but still has enough speed in the open field to be a dangerous weapon. Expect Spiller to be featured early and often in the fall, with the Aggies breaking in a new quarterback. With enough work at a high-profile school, it wouldn't be shocking if Spiller plays himself into RB1.

Zamir White, Georgia

The latest in a long line of elite Georgia running backs, Zamir White should be in store for a monster 2021 season. He finished 2020 with 709 yards and 11 touchdowns, despite often splitting time with fellow back James Cook. While Cook returns, White has the makings of a true workhorse, as a well-rounded, physical rusher whose physique jumps out at you. The only thing that could make NFL teams wary is White's injury history. White tore his right ACL in the senior year of his illustrious high school career and then tore the ACL in the other knee during a scrimmage in August of 2018. He'll have to prove that these past injuries don't define him and he can go forward and have a long pro career.

Others to Watch

Kevin Harris, South Carolina

Brian Robinson, Alabama

Mohamed Ibrahim, Minnesota

Kennedy Brooks, Oklahoma

Jerrion Ealy, Ole Miss

C.J. Verdell, Oregon

Receivers

George Pickens, Georgia

After leading the Bulldogs in receiving as a true freshman, George Pickens entered 2020 with insanely high expectations. He still put up fairly strong numbers, totaling 36 receptions for 513 yards, but there were some that felt he could've done even more. With improved quarterback play now that J.T. Daniels is in place, Pickens likely would've entered this season as a Biletnikoff Award finalist, but he tore his ACL just a few months ago. It's unclear what his status will be for the fall; there's some hope that he can return, but he almost definitely won't be ready to go for the season opener. Even so, Pickens has the tools to be a dynamic NFL wide out, with a well-built 6'3", 200 pound frame. He's already a great route runner for his age and has elite hands. The major question, beyond the ACL injury, is whether he can stay out of trouble on the field. In his short UGA career, Pickens has not shied away from controversy, including a fistfight against rival Georgia Tech and receiving an infamous unsportmanslike conduct penalty against Tennessee for spraying QB Jarrett Guarantano in the face with a water bottle. There's no denying his talent, but he needs to be smarter as a player to be worthy of a first-round selection.

John Metchie III, Alabama

Even though he was often overshadowed by DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle, John Metchie II emerged as a real difference-maker for the Tide in 2020. He finished with 916 yards and 55 receptions on the season and had one of the great highlights of the year when he leveled a Florida defender returning an INT, causing him to subsequently fumble. He'll now become Alabama's No. 1 option in the passing game and should put up big numbers catching the ball from new quarterback Bryce Young. It wouldn't be surprising to see him develop into an All-American, Biletnikoff Award-level player, particularly when you consider how 'Bama has developed the receiver position the last few seasons. It's not just Smith or Waddle, but Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, and Amari Cooper before that. Expect Metchie to continue that proud Tide tradition.

Justyn Ross, Clemson

There might not be a more significant wild card in college football this upcoming season than Justyn Ross, at least at the receiver position. Ross had 1,865 yards in two seasons from 2018-2019 for Clemson, including a coming-out party in their 2018 National Championship domination of Alabama. He was expected to be an All-American in 2020 and move onto the NFL, but a spinal injury threatened his entire football career. The expectation is that he should be able to return for 2021 and if he can regain his old form, this is one of college football's best wide outs, without much question. Ross also has a bunch of attributes NFL scouts love from his size to his route running tree to his insane catch radius. If he can come back healthy he's WR1 for next year's Draft, especially considering it may be a "down year" at receiver after the last two cycles.

Others to Watch

Chris Olave, Ohio State

Garrett Wilson, Ohio State

Jahan Dotson, Penn State

Ty Fryfogle, Indiana

Tight Ends

Charlie Kolar, Iowa State

In his three seasons playing tight end for Iowa State, Charlie Kolar has built up an impressive resume. He was All-Conference his redshirt freshman campaign before putting together two consecutive All-American seasons for the Cyclones. He likely would've been a second or third round draft selection this year but instead decided to stay for one more year in Ames. Operating as QB Brock Purdy's security blanket, Kolar is likely to be targeted early and often in the ISU offense, and he has some of the best hands you'll ever see at the tight end position. Kolar isn't going to wow scouts with his athleticism or speed, but he's a proven tight end who can block and be an asset in the passing attack. There's obviously a market for that in the NFL and he could theoretically play himself into the first round this fall.

Jeremy Ruckert, Ohio State

Ohio State's loaded receiver room may threaten to overshadow anything else on their offense, but NFL scouts love tight end Jeremy Ruckert. He's 6'5", 250 pounds but there are rumors that he runs a 40-yard dash in the 4.6-4.7 range. When you see him on the field, he moves more like a prototypical receiver than a TE and you can move him around pretty much anywhere you'd like on the field. He may have to get better as a blocker to be worthy of a first-rounder, but he'll get plenty of looks, especially with the way tight ends are valued in the modern NFL.

Jalen Wydermyer, Texas A&M

Jimbo Fisher has always been a coach that loves to utilize his tight ends and that philosophy has helped turn Jalen Wydermyer into a star. As a freshman he led the Aggies with six receiving touchdowns and totaled 447 yards. In 2020, his numbers got even better (506 yards, 6 TD) despite playing fewer games. He was named John Mackey Award finalist in '20 and will likely enter 2021 as a heavy favorite. Some of his targets may be swallowed up by fellow tight end Baylor Cupp, now healthy after two consecutive season-ending injuries, but he's still primed to make a heavy impact on a team with SEC West Title aspirations.

Others to Watch

Jake Ferguson, Wisconsin

Braden Galloway, Clemson

Peyton Hendershot, Indiana

Jahleel Billingsley, Alabama

Offensive Line

Evan Neal, Alabama

The top-rated offensive tackle in the 2019 recruiting cycle, Evan Neal has not disappointed in his first two seasons in Tuscaloosca. He's started 26 total games over the past two years, splitting time between left guard and right tackle. Neal is most natural at left tackle and may take over the reigns at that spot in 2021 now that Alex Leatherwood is a Las Vegas Raider, but his versatility to play along the line is a major selling point. At 6'7", 340 pounds, Neal is an absolute giant even by most O-Line standards, but he's surprisingly light on his feet. He's already shown immense growth as a run blocker, and should continue to develop into a more consistent blocker this fall.

Zion Nelson, Miami (FL)

Even though Zion Nelson wasn't rated very high coming out of high school, he's quickly developed into one of the best offensive linemen in the nation. As a true freshman he started all 13 games for Miami at left tackle, then followed it up by starting seven of Miami's ten games in 2020. He's not as massive as Neal and there will be no expectations he can play guard in the NFL, but Nelson has put on over 70 pounds since arriving in Coral Gables. He continues to not only grow physically, but as a blocker, showing more consistency down the stretch last fall than at any other point in his career. If he can continue to show improvement this upcoming summer and fall, he can push and even possibly overtake Neal as the top O-Linemen taking in the class.

Kenyon Green, Texas A&M

Isaiah Spiller's dominance over the last two seasons can be credited to plenty of different things, but some should go to Kenyon Green and the Aggie offensive line. They've consistently opened massive holes for Spiller to work with and should do so again in 2021. Green's been the key piece to the unit; he was an All-SEC Freshman in 2019 before a flat-out dominant 2020, in which he was a consensus All-American. Green can operate at either guard spot and possibly even help at tackle if needed, although that's far from his natural spot. He's already asserted himself as the best interior offensive linemen in the nation, but there's some hope he could get even better, as he is just 20 years of age.

Others to Watch

Rasheed Walker, Penn State

Austin Deculus, LSU

Tyler Lindebaum, Iowa

Josh Sills, Oklahoma State

Jamaree Salyer, Georgia

Defensive Line

Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon

If I had to put money on a player being the No. 1 pick in the 2022 Draft and it couldn't be quarterback, Kayvon Thibodeaux would easily be my selection. Once rated as the nation's top recruit, Thibodeaux has come on and played very well for Oregon and there's plenty of people who think he's only scratching the surface. He checks a bunch of boxes, with a frame ready-made for the NFL, but freakish athleticism and a tireless motor. He's grown quickly under the tutelage of Mario Cristobal and the rest of the Ducks staff, which is beginning to turn into somewhat of a factory in terms of front seven prospects. Thibodeaux is well-rounded off the field as well, a player who earned a 3.8 GPA in high school and earned an offer to Stanford, which should aid in his understanding of NFL concepts and schemes. After a down year for pass rushers in the 2021 class, Thibodeaux is the type of edge rusher that will get NFL scouts and personnel excited about the '22 cycle.

DeMarvin Leal, Texas A&M

If you're looking for a breakout star for the 2021 college football season, look no further than Texas A&M's DeMarvin Leal. The former five-star recruit has shown flashes over the past two seasons, tallying 4.5 sacks and 37 tackles, but he's in line for so much more. He can line up either at strong-side defensive end or inside at defensive tackle, where his athleticism and footwork overwhelm interior offensive linemen. In the NFL, Leal's most likely fit given his size would be at defensive end, where he's already established himself as an elite run stopper for the position. Even playing in an SEC loaded with future NFL offensive linemen, Leal should jump out as a savvy, well-built pass rusher whose only going to get better.

Zach Harrison, Ohio State

No school in the entire country has been producing elite pass rushers quite like Ohio State. In just the past half-decade, they've sent both Bosa brothers, Sam Hubbard, and Chase Young to the pros, as well as several interior defensive linemen. Next up is Zach Harrison, another former prized recruit ready for a huge 2021 season. As a true freshman, Harrison played in all 14 games and finished with 3.5 sacks, but played his best football down the stretch. He seemed primed for a huge 2020 but the shortened Big Ten schedule restricted him to a relatively quiet two sacks and 14 tackles. With a normal off-season, Harrison should take full advantage, continuing to learn and develop under Ohio State D-Line coach Larry Johnson. With a 6'6", 265 pound frame, Harrison's quickness and explosive first step are his clear strengths, but he'll have to round out other parts of his game and get stronger to be worthy of a first-round selection next spring.

Others to Watch

George Karlaftis, Purdue

D.J. Dale, Alabama

Drake Jackson, USC

Tyler Davis, Clemson

Zacch Pickens, South Carolina

Linebackers

Nik Bonitto, Oklahoma

There's no Micah Parsons in the 2022 Draft Class, at least not yet, but Oklahoma's Nik Bonitto could emerge as the top LB going forward. Bonitto has played a major role in OU's defensive improvement over the last two seasons. After compiling 43 tackles and displaying key coverage abilities, he demonstrated that he could also get after opposing quarterbacks, finishing tied for third in the Big 12 with 8.5 sacks. He continues to an incredibly versatile defensive playmaker who can help in blitz packages or step back and cover tight ends or running backs. Bonitto has a good chance to be the preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year on a Sooner team that may begin 2021 No. 1 in the country, elevating his national recognition and stock.

Brenton Cox, Florida

After beginning his career at Georgia, Brenton Cox made the move south to Gainesville and emerged as the most consistent piece of Todd Grantham's defense. He began his collegiate career known solely as a pure pass rusher from the linebacker spot, but has demonstrated that he can do much more than that. He's particularly improved as a run stopper, with solid instincts and a real nose for the ball. He's a fearless, physical defender that has had more than a few highlight-reel hits. In order to help secure a spot in next year's first-round, he'll have to continue to refine other parts of his game and also demonstrate that he has solved off-the-field questions. Cox was originally dismissed from UGA and there are rumors that he's not a good locker room piece. Answering those concerns should be of top priority for a linebacker that has top-notch talent.

Mike Rose, Iowa State

Even though he may not have the elite athleticism or pure talent of other linebackers in this class, Mike Rose will likely finish his career as one of the most accomplished linebackers anywhere in the nation. He's been a three-year starter for Iowa State, earning Honorable Mention All-Big 12 each of the first two seasons. In 2020, he took it up another notch, winning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and earning All-American honors after recording 96 tackles, five interceptions, and 10.5 TFL. He's demonstrated natural instincts and a feel for the game that reminds you of a ten-year NFL veteran, and he's one of the better form tacklers in the country. Rose could've gone pro this past spring and instead decided to come back to Ames and join a Cyclone team that should be a Top 10 preseason team. The move could certainly help his stock, especially if he can once again earn All-American recognition.

Others to Watch

Christian Harris, Alabama

Devin Lloyd, Utah

Kuony Deng, California

Owen Pappoe, Auburn

Nolan Smith, Georgia

Secondary

Derek Stingley, LSU

Derek Stingley began earning a reputation before he even started playing at LSU, gaining national recognition for his play in the spring and fall camps. He immediately played snaps as a true freshman and made a massive impact, starting all 15 games and picking off six passes, enough to earn All-American recognition. Massive things were expected of him going into 2020, but LSU's defensive struggles and injuries left him without a single INT on the season. He still proved to be one of the better cover corners in the SEC, but will hope for a more normal 2021 campaign. Either way, Stingley has a lot to like as an NFL prospect, as well-rounded defender with incredible ball skills. As long as he is able to stay healthy, he'll become a favorite for the Jim Thorpe Award and a top candidate for the top defensive back off the board.

Kaiir Elam, Florida

Florida has become a machine at pumping out future NFL defensive backs over the last decade and the next in line is corner Kaiir Elam. Even though the Gator pass defense struggled throughout much of 2020, Elam emerged as a genuine star, with 39 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 pass breakups. He demonstrated elite range and closing ability, proving to already be an expert on jumping passing routes. From an NFL perspective, he has ideal size at 6'2" and a well-built frame that has had no problems keeping up in the physical SEC. Elam will hope that his play will start translating to more success for a Gator defense that is more talented than their 2020 numbers would indicate.

Ahmad Gardner, Cincinnati

Ahmad Gardner has developed into one of the best defenders on a Cincinnati team with serious aspirations entering 2021. Despite being a three-star recruit with very little fanfare, Gardner immediately contributed as a true freshman, with three interceptions. He built on that with a tremendous 2020 season in which he once again recorded three picks, and also had six pass deflections. Over the last two seasons, he has played 642 coverage snaps and been targeted 98 times, allowing zero touchdowns. Although he may not be as purely talented as some of the top Power Five guys, the numbers speak for themselves. Gardner's good enough to be a Jim Thorpe favorite and play a pivotal role for a team that could crash the CFB Playoff conversation.

Others to Watch

Josh Jobe, Alabama

Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame

Bubba Bolden, Miami (FL)

Sevyn Banks, Ohio Satte

Trent McDuffie, Washington

Jordan Battle, Alabama

Reed Blankenship, Middle Tennessee State