Spring Football 2024: Coaches on the Hot Seat

Billy Napier, Florida

The current world of college football coaching continues to experience an evolution in the transfer portal and NIL era. At a time when building and maintaining a roster has never been more difficult, coaches are being rewarded with larger contracts and more money than ever before. But, all that cash isn't resulting in more job security. Instead, college football programs are hiring and firing at an astonishing rate, and you never can be quite sure which way the coaching carousel is going to turn next. That means that the 2024 carousel should be a wild one once again, and we already have an idea who could be on the chopping block next. Not every hot seat is the same, so I've decided to split the coaches under pressure this fall into three categories all with one, obvious underlying goal this year - to win football games.

Hot Seat Level: Flaming

These coaches could have easily been let go last fall, but managed to hold on to their jobs - for the time being. As they enter 2024, every single defeat could be their final at their respective schools, making this year a true make-or-break.

Billy Napier, Florida

Record at Florida: 11-14, 6-10 SEC (entering Year 3)

There is no coach who enters the fall under as much pressure as Billy Napier at Florida. 25 games into his tenure with the Gators, Napier is 11-14 with a 6-10 mark in the SEC, and he faces concerns both on the field and off of it as he looks head to 2024. The Gators face down arguably the toughest schedule in all of FBS ball this season, with games against in-state rivals Miami, UCF, and Florida State on top of a full SEC conference schedule. Add in the news that broke just last week that one-time Florida commit Jaden Rashada, who is now a Georgia Bulldog, would be bringing a lawsuit against Napier and several others involved with the Gator program claiming he was defrauded of millions in NIL funds, Napier is facing down challenges from all sides. The good news is that his third Florida team looks like his best, at least on paper. Graham Mertz proved to be capable last year as the starting quarterback, Eugene Wilson is one of the best young receivers in all of college football, and the defense has NFL talents at al three levels. But with this schedule, even if Florida were to exceed expectations, it feels like their ceiling is right around 7-8 wins. That's simply not going to cut it in Gainesville, and it feels like a near certainty the program will be on the search for a new head man come winter.

Sam Pittman, Arkansas

Record at Arkansas: 23-25, 11-23 SEC (entering Year 5)

Sam Pittman was considered an outside-the-box hire by Arkansas at the time prior to the 2020 season, and despite some bright spots, he enters 2024 on a flaming hot seat in Fayetteville. To be fair to Pittman, he inherited a brutal situation – the Razorbacks had won just four games total in the two years prior under Chad Morris , and Pittman’s nine-win campaign in 2021, just months removed from the Morris disaster, earned him National Coach of the Year consideration. Building on that success has proven to be quite the challenge, with the Razorbacks going 11-14 over the last two seasons, including faltering to a 4-8 mark last fall. Needless to say, Pittman acted fast over the offseason, shuffling his staff and making one of the splashiest coordinator hires of the cycle by bringing back Bobby Petrino to the program as OC. Perhaps that will finally jolt an offense that felt lifeless throughout the majority of 2023, but Arkansas will be breaking in several new faces on that side of the ball, including new QB Taylen Green. With a precarious schedule, the Razorbacks are going to have to scrap to make a bowl, which isn't exactly where the program hoped to be in Year Five of the Pittman tenure. We'll learn quite a bit about Arkansas' chances for a successful season within the first two weeks of the season, when they travel to Stillwater to match up with Oklahoma State. A win could set the stage for a rebound campaign, but a loss? It could be the type of deflating defeat that sinks their hopes right before a critical part of their schedule in late September to mid-October - and ultimately lead to Pittman's demise. 

Dave Aranda, Baylor

Record at Baylor: 23-25, 15-21 Big 12 (entering Year 5)

Dave Aranda is a prime example of just how quickly things can change in the fast-paced world of college football coaching. After winning the Big 12 in his second season in charge at Baylor back in 2021, Aranda was openly being considered for both the USC and LSU job openings and looked to be the next big thing in college football. Fast forward two years, Aranda is hanging on by a thread in Waco after going 9-16 the last two seasons, and will need to hit the ground running to save his job in 2024. More and more, the 2021 Baylor team has looked like more of a fluke than anything else, and many of the positive traits that defined that team haven't shown up in any of the other Aranda-coached teams. There's been a lack of discipline, energy, and overall execution, all of which is hard to reverse over the course of one offseason. The new-look Big 12 may provide an easier pathway back up the conference totem pole and Aranda and staff have worked hard to fill holes in the transfer portal. But after going 3-9 last fall, it's tough to imagine the Bears turning things completely around and finding themselves in the conference title mix. On the contrary, a tricky September schedule, which includes two Big 12 league games and the ever-tricky Air Force Falcons, may create a situation where Aranda doesn't even last into the season's second month.

Hot Seat Level: Warm

The coaches here aren't likely to be fired midseason, but will need to show tangible progress to ensure they stick around for 2025 and beyond.

Justin Wilcox, California

Record at California: 36-43, 21-37 Pac-12 (entering Year 8)

It's a new day in Berkeley, as the Cal Golden Bears begin life in the ACC in 2024, the type of change that may breathe new life into the program. Since bottoming out at 1-11 in 2013 during Sonny Dykes' first season at the helm, the Golden Bears have been stuck in a frustrating place of mediocrity. They have gone to four bowl games since 2014, with three of them coming under the leadership of Justin Wilcox, but haven't been able to string together any long-term success. With the move to the ACC and Wilcox entering his eighth season in charge, it feels like this fall could be his final opportunity to show he has things moving back in a positive direction. Making a bowl last season, albeit an eventual loss in the Independence Bowl, was solid progress but doesn't it feel like the bar should be higher for Wilcox after nearly a decade in charge at one of the premier institutions on the West Coast? If there is a saving grace for Wilcox, it's the fact that the financial situation for California athletics looks increasingly grim, with reports that the program suffered a nearly $9 million deficit in 2023. The hope is that the move to the ACC will eventually deliver the program a much-needed influx of cash, but in the short-term it may make things worse, with Cal likely taking less revenue from the Pac-12 and increased travel and logistics costs. Even so, it's hard to justify holding on to a football coach who, despite some occasional bright moments, is under .500 overall and managed just a 21-37 record in the Pac-12.

Scott Satterfield, Cincinnati

Record at Cincinnati: 3-9, 1-8 Big 12 (entering Year 2)

Just five years ago, Scott Satterfield looked like he was on a path to being one of the best head coaches anywhere in the country. He was fresh off a successful stint at Appalachian State, where he oversaw their transition from FCS power to the FBS level, and had put together an impressive single season turnaround at Louisville in 2019, going from two wins to eight in his first season at the helm. Fast forward to 2024, Satterfield's stock has dipped in a major way, and he enters the season under considerable pressure in Year Two with Cincinnati. Last year was a wakeup call for the program as they began life in the Big 12, going just 3-9 overall and 1-8 in the new-look conference, with the lone league win coming against another newcomer (Houston). To be fair to Satterfield, there were several close losses and the Bearcats could have easily backed their way into a bowl, but considering the fact he wasn't a super popular hire at the time after Luke Fickell left for Madison, it wasn't the ringing debut the 51-year old head man was looking for. Satterfield will benefit from another full offseason with the group and hopes to have plugged holes through the portal, but there are still serious questions throughout the roster. First off foremost, who will be the starting QB now that Emory Jones has finally exhausted his eligibility? Indiana transfer Brendan Sorsby looks to have the inside track, but who else will help open things up on this side of the ball? The talent on this roster is lacking considerably when compared to their other power conference foes and unless Satterfield can whip up some magic, it feels like it could be another long season for a program that was playing in the College Football Playoff just two and a half years ago.

Hot Seat Level: Prove It Year

It's not fair to consider these coaches on the hot seat, especially the first guy on this list, but 2024 will be an important fall for each. Whether it's Ryan Day looking to prove he can deliver the National Title to Ohio State that has eluded him so far, or Brent Venables showing he can handle Oklahoma's new reality in the SEC, each has something to prove this year.

Ryan Day, Ohio State

Record at Ohio State: 56-8, 39-3 Big Ten (entering Year 6)

Remember when Jim Harbaugh seemingly couldn't get over the hump, couldn't beat Ohio State, and seemed perpetually stuck playing second fiddle to the Buckeyes in the Big Ten? Things have now reversed, and it's Ryan Day who is looking to prove the doubters wrong after three straight losses to Michigan. Now, context here is important (and awfully forgotten about with the Ryan Day discourse) - these past three Michigan teams have been some of the greatest teams in program history, with three straight conference titles and Playoff appearances, with a National Title to boot. Still, Buckeye fans are beginning to get restless and with just one Playoff victory to his credit, it's time for Day to start delivering even more than what we've seen to this point. Fortunately, 2024 sets up perfectly to be the breakthrough year for Ohio State and Day, if the new offensive pieces can gel in short order. Although the Big Ten is adding four strong programs to the mix, Michigan could be due for a step-back after Harbaugh's departure, as will newcomer Washington most likely. Even more important, Ohio State returns an overwhelming amount of star power to their roster, with several major names holding off on the NFL for one more year run, including TreVeyon Henderson, Emeka Egbuka, J.T. Tuimoloau, and more. Add in the successes in the portal by landing Quinshon Judkins from Ole Miss and Caleb Downs from Alabama, all the ingredients are there for this to be truly be the year - now it's time for Day to show he can do it.

Mario Cristobal, Miami (FL)

Record at Miami: 12-13, 6-10 ACC (entering Year 3)

After cycling through coach after coach, it looked like Miami finally got their guy when they hired alum Mario Cristobal to run the program after his successful run at Oregon. Cristobal, an offensive linemen on two National Championship winning Hurricane teams, had both the knowledge of the program and the coach skillset to finally help "The U" fulfill their vast potential. However, two years in, the results have been... mixed. The debut campaign was a stinker, with the Hurricanes going 5-7 and missing a bowl all together, finishing off fifth in a weak ACC Coastal. 2023 looked like it could be a turnaround campaign and set the stage for exciting things to come, but it also fell a little flat. A 4-0 start was erased by an atrocious decision by Cristobal to keep running the ball instead of kneeling against Georgia Tech, resulting in a shocking Yellow Jacket comeback. Then came the three game losing streak in November and a head-scratching bowl performance in a defeat to Rutgers, all in all equaling a 7-6 second season for Cristobal. 25 games in, 12-13 overall and a 6-10 record in an ACC that has been mediocre to bad the last two years, has not cut it. So, the ever-important Year Three feels even more crucial for Cristobal, and to his credit, his work in both high school recruiting and in the transfer portal has Miami flush with talent. But, plenty of coaches over the years at Miami have made the big splashes in the offseason or built a roster loaded with NFL talent - winning football games consistently has been the problem in Coral Gables, and time will tell if Cristobal is able to flip the script this fall.

Brent Venables, Oklahoma

Record at Oklahoma: 16-10, 10-8 Big 12 (entering Year 3)

Much like Cristobal, the debut season for Brent Venables in 2022 did not go as planned. The Sooners entered the season ranked No. 9 in the nation, but between an injury to starting QB Dillon Gabriel and an atrocious defense, they managed to just get to .500 at 6-6 on the regular season. Among those six losses was a 49-0 drubbing at the hands of Texas in the Red River Showdown, the largest margin of victory by the Longhorns in the long history of the rivalry. Fortunately, 2023 was a reversal of fortunes for Venables and the Sooners, as Gabriel was healthy and they made strides on both sides of the ball. Oklahoma would jump to a 7-0 start, before their Playoff hopes and eventual Big 12 Title hopes were dashed by losses to Kansas and Oklahoma State. Still, winning 10 games after such a surprisingly bad debut was quite the response from Venables and this staff and there's significant momentum around the program as they look to 2024. However, 2024 will also usher in their first season of SEC football, a significant step up for a program that has dominated life in the Big 12 for over two decades. No longer are the Sooners going to hold such a massive talent advantage over their competition. On the contrary, they are going to be facing teams just as big, strong, and athletic, with universities as committed to building a winning football program as Oklahoma is. Of course, Venables and staff have known this was coming and have looked to bulk up along the lines and bring in a different type of athlete than what Lincoln Riley leaned on during his time in Norman, but this is still a major adjustment and unlike Texas, the Sooners aren't fresh off a Playoff berth. Venable seems like the right guy for this transition, but it will be a huge one. How he, and this entire program, responds will make all the difference this year and beyond.

NBA Mock Draft 2024: Edition 1 (Combine Edition)

Reed Sheppard, Kentucky

 1. Atlanta Hawks

Alexandre Sarr, F/C, France

Atlanta came away as the surprise winners of the 2024 NBA Draft lottery despite having the tenth odds at the top spot, a major win for an organization with an uncertain future. There's no Victor Wembanyama or Zion Williamson waiting for them this year, but French big Alexandre Sarr is in line to hear his name called first. The seven-footer moves incredibly well for his size, which has been on full display at the Combine, and has a chance to be an instant impact defender. The offensive game needs work, but you can imagine him grabbing plenty of lobs from Trae Young and Dejounte Murray - if those two stick around past this offseason.

2. Washington Wizards

Zaccharie Risacher, G/F, France

Zaccharie Risacher is the other big-name French prospect in competition to hear his name called first overall in late June, a 6'8" wing with a game perfectly suited for the modern NBA. He still has to round out his game, but has the necessary physical tools NBA folks are excited about, with the potential to be a real knockdown shooter. There's still plenty of room to grow, but he's worth the risk for a Washington team with no intentions of contending anytime soon.

3. Houston Rockets

Reed Sheppard, G, Kentucky

I've been a huge fan of Reed Sheppard since he arrived in Lexington, and I wouldn't overlook his chances to be the first player off the board this year. He's actually one of the more athletic prospects in this Draft with a well-rounded offensive game and tremendous feel for the game. Sheppard fits in nicely with Houston, setting himself up as the long-term answer to Fred VanVleet at point and providing the perfect counterbalance to Jalen Green in the backcourt.

4. San Antonio Spurs

Nikola Topic, G, Serbia

Who do the Spurs pair with Victor Wembanyama with two selections in the Top 10 this year? Adding a playmaking guard is a great place to start, and Serbian wing Nikola Topic is in line to land somewhere early on. He has a game similar to Goran Dragic, a crafty ball-handler who can create for himself if needed, but who is at his best when setting up his teammates. Now, there may be some caution here for the Spurs - Topic recently hurt his knee in the ABA Finals playing overseas, and the extent of the injury is unknown, throwing a wrench into the pre-Draft process for him and prospective teams.

5. Detroit Pistons

Matas Buzelis, F, Lithuania

Yet another international prospect rounding out the Top 5, NBA teams should be more familiar with Matas Buzelis, as he has been playing with the G League Ignite. He could be a fine consolation prize for a Detroit team that suffered an unfortunate drop at the lottery, gifting them a versatile forward who they can pair with just about anybody and score plenty of points.

Spring Football 2024: 10 Players Poised for the Big Sophomore Leap

Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee

True freshman are contributing earlier and earlier in modern college football, but for many players across the country, the big leap comes during their second seasons on campuses. A full offseason with the program, where players have the opportunity to become engrained in rigorous nutrition, strength, and conditioning programs greatly accelerates their development and in turn, opens up the possibilities for a potential "breakout" campaign. That's why my annual, "10 Players Poised for the Big Sophomore Leap" article is one of my favorite to write each and every spring - I love the idea of betting on a young player who may be unheard of by the broader college football community and seeing if they can pan out. And, there have been plenty of hits (how about Ollie Gordon last year?!) and even more misses, but this type of speculation is one element of college sports that remains as fun as ever. These are the 10 I'm keeping a close eye on this year as we inch towards the kickoff of the 2024 season.

Nico Iamaleava, QB, Tennessee

(2023 Stats: 314 passing yards, 5 total touchdowns)

It almost feels like cheating to include a player with the pedigree of Nico Iamaleava on this list, but the former five-star prospect seems poised for a monster 2024 campaign. Iamaleava is mostly known around the college football world for the monster NIL contract he signed coming out of high school, rumored to be in the range of $8 million, but those who follow high school recruiting have raved about his skillset for years. He's the most hyped Tennessee quarterback since Peyton Manning, and there's multiple reasons to believe 2024 is the year we see the full breakout. Incumbent starter Joe Milton is off playing on Sundays, Josh Heupel's offense is about as QB-friendly as you can get at this level, and Iamaleava will have the luxury of passing to one of the better receiver corps in the SEC, headlined by a healthy Bru McCoy. Sure, there will be growing pains, as there always are for young quarterbacks in the SEC, but it's hard to imagine a scenario in which Iamaleava doesn't put up monster numbers running this offense. The expectations will be intense, and few places in college football are quite the pressure cooker Tennessee is, but Iamaleava signed up for this - he seems ready to show what he can do on the big stage.

Hykeem Williams, WR, Florida State

(2023 Stats: 5 receptions, 80 yards, 1 touchdown)

Last season's CFB Playoff snub should provide ample motivation for the Florida State Seminoles as they gear up for 2024, but there's no denying that there are major losses on both sides of the ball in Tallahassee. The passing attack in particular is in for a complete rebuild after QB Jordan Travis exhausted his eligibility, and top wide outs Johnny Wilson and Keon Coleman took their talents to the NFL. Mike Norvell and staff made an understandable decision to bring in a transfer quarterback as a bridge in the first year of the post-Travis era, with D.J. Uiagalelei returning to the ACC. "D.J. U" has never lived up to his former five-star billing, but the former Clemson and Oregon State starter has made 40 starts in his collegiate career and proven to be serviceable. With that being said, losing Wilson and Coleman leaves a gap at receiver - one that may just be filled by uber-talented sophomore Hykeem Williams. A five-star recruit from last year's 2023 Class, Williams looks the part, a 6'3", 210-pounder with a wide catch radius and blazing speed. However, he wasn't able to quite make an impact in 2023, managing just five receptions for 80 yards, along with a touchdown in the Syracuse win. He is part of a crowded receiver room, one that now includes a pair of SEC refugees in Malik Benson (Alabama) and Jalen Brown (LSU), plus several notable holdovers. But nobody in this room has the pure talent of Williams, and if you are going to bet on one, why not invest in the one with the most potential? Williams could make all the difference between another FSU ACC Title, or the 'Noles sinking back down the conference totem pole.

Tackett Curtis, LB, Wisconsin

(2023 Stats: 40 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 pass deflection)

For as disappointing as USC's 2023 campaign was, including a defense that couldn't stop absolutely anyone, freshman linebacker Tackett Curtis was a notable bright spot. A four-star recruit who the Trojans originally stole out of SEC territory in Louisiana, Curtis played with fearlessness as a true frosh, and immediately became known for monster hits en route to a 40-tackle campaign. Lincoln Riley and the staff raved about him, but instead of being a building block for the future in Los Angeles, Curtis surprisingly hit the portal over the offseason and ended up at Wisconsin. He's one of several new faces in the Wisconsin linebacker corps, a group that was very un-Badgeresque during Luke Fickell's first season at the helm. However, coordinator Mike Tressel now has a lot to work with at the position and most importantly, there's athleticism at the position, which was sorely lacking in 2023. This seems like a win-win for both sides - Wisconsin adds one an incredibly talented young linebacker with experience, while Curtis goes to a school with a proven pedigree for developing the position. As long as he stays healthy, it's hard for me not to imagine Curtis making an immediate impact in Madison.

Luke Hasz, TE, Arkansas

(2023 Stats: 16 receptions, 253 yards, 3 touchdowns)

One of the 23 players who made my Freshman to Watch list last spring, Arkansas tight end Luke Hasz didn't just look like one of the best freshman tight ends in the nation through the first five games - he looked like one of the best tight ends, period. Hasz caught 16 passes for 253 yards over the season's first month and was particularly dominant against LSU, going over 100 yards and bringing in two touchdowns in a close loss. Unfortunately, a broken clavicle against Texas A&M in the final week of September ended up costing him the remainder of his true freshman season, a depressing ending to a promising start to his career. Now, Hasz is not only 100 percent, but all reports out of Arkansas in the spring were that the tight end was looking stronger and better than ever before, a terrifying scenario for the rest of the SEC. Hasz should also benefit from the changes on offense for the Razorbacks, as Bobby Petrino arrives to rejuvenate an offense that was lifeless for the vast majority of the 2023 season. Petrino will look to get Arkansas playing more up-tempo and taking shots down the field, which should in turn open up space for their sophomore tight end underneath. If he can stay healthy, there's no reason to think that Hasz can't be an All-SEC talent in 2024.

Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas

(2023 Stats: 21 tackles, 1 interception, 4 pass deflections)

The Texas offense received plenty of credit for their success in 2023, and rightfully so, but I'd argue it was the growth on defense that truly spurred the Longhorn run to the CFB Playoff. Now, as they jump to the SEC even more will be expected and in a league brimming with QB talent, the Texas secondary is going to have to keep up. The good news is that the Longhorns have a rising young talent at corner in Malik Muhammad, a Top 100 recruit in the Class of 2023 who played in all 14 games a year ago. Muhammad never seemed fazed by seeing so much action so early at an important position - on the contrary, he seemed to get better and gain more confidence each week. As he prepares for 2024, even more will be expected, with Muhammad likely to slide into the starting spot at boundary corner. In fact, he looks to be the top corner on the roster after the surprising decision by Terrance Brooks to hit the portal during the recent spring window. That will be plenty to handle, but Muhammad has all thee tools to do just that and appears ready to take up a leadership mantle on a reloading Texas defense this fall.

Kaden Feagin, RB, Illinois

(2023 Stats: 95 carries, 438 yards, 3 total touchdowns)

Kaden Feagin was so impressive as a true freshman for Illinois last fall that he essentially pushed incumbent starter Reggie Love II out the door and over to fellow Big Ten rival Purdue. But, it feels like 2023 was just the beginning for the talented sophomore. For one thing, there may not be a more physically imposing running back in all of college football, with Feagin standing at an eye-popping 6'3", 250 pounds. Despite that size, he moves pretty well and there's some real wiggle to his running style, although at his core, he's a workhorse back. Illinois will look to maintain some semblance of offensive balance as they approach the 2024 campaign, especially with former Ole Miss transfer Luke Altmyer ending last season strong. But when you have a player who can eat up yards like Feagin, it's going to be hard not to feed him, and he's now the clear-cut guy in the backfield in Champaign. This feels like the year he becomes a household name, and I suspect the production to pick right up in the first week against Eastern Illinois. That is, assuming Feagin is 100 percent, as he works his way back from a shoulder problem that bothered him late last fall and into this spring.

Whit Weeks, LB, LSU

(2023 Stats: 50 tackles, 0.5 sacks)

You could make the argument Whit Weeks has already emerged after totaling 50 tackles a true freshman in the SEC a season ago, but he's another guy I think is bound for a monster 2024. Weeks came on as a pleasant surprise early on for the Tigers a season ago, inserted into the starting lineup within the first month. And, he looked the part, managing 26 tackles across his first three SEC games against Mississippi State, Arkansas, and Ole Miss. The healthy return of veteran Omar Speights led to Weeks seeing his play time cut in half and the Tiger defense seemed to suffer when the high motor linebacker wasn't on the field. Speights is now gone and Brian Kelly completely overhauled the staff on this side of the ball over the offseason, bringing in Blake Baker from Missouri to run the defense. It's still not clear what defensive scheme Baker will deploy in 2024, and how he'll use Harold Perkins and company, but it's hard to imagine Weeks not playing an important role. The true sophomore is way too talented to keep off the field, and he has enough versatility to move around a bit. LSU is certainly hoping for a defensive turnaround in 2024 and if that does indeed take place, Weeks should be at the center of it.

Creed Whittemore, WR, Mississippi State

(2023 Stats: 11 receptions, 102 yards, 3 total touchdowns)

It quickly became clear in 2023 that Zach Arnett was not the guy for Mississippi State, and the program quickly cut ties with the interim head coach, instead bringing on Oklahoma offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby to run the show. Lebby injects new life into a program that felt directionless after the shocking and tragic passing of Mike Leach late in 2022 and if there's one thing we know he is going to deliver, it's points. The Bulldogs are going to be running an aggressive, up-tempo scheme that challenges defenses down the field, different from Leach's old Air Raid but bringing many of its principles to fruition. That should be good news for every receiver on the roster, including a potential rising star in Creed Whittemore. The sophomore from Gainesville is an interesting piece, a player who played quarterback throughout all of high school but signed with Mississippi State as an athlete. He acclimated quickly to the wide receiver position and flashed significant potential in limited playing time, including three total touchdowns last fall. It feels like this could be the breakout campaign for him not just because he will be playing in a wide-open offense, but how the depth chart unfolds around him. The top two receivers on the Bulldogs in 2023, Tulu Griffin and Zavion Thomas, both departed and while Lebby and staff added several pieces in the portal, you would imagine the holdovers will get a chance to show what they can do. A player with Whittemore's skillset, a versatile weapon that can line up truly anywhere, is incredibly valuable to an offensive mind like Lebby and I'm curious to see what creative plays or packages he deploys to get the ball in his hands in 2024.

Rueben Owens, RB, Texas A&M

(2023 Stats: 385 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns)

A one-time Louisville pledge, Rueben Owens was a big get for Jimbo Fisher and staff to bolster their 2023 Class, and he looked to be part even as the Aggies suffered through a rough fall. Owens finished with 385 rushing yards on 101 carries, along with three touchdowns, and he also looked to be a capable receiver out of the backfield. He wasn't able to showcase his breakaway speed in a rather lethargic A&M offense, but the hope is that things will look vastly different under new head coach Mike Elko and offensive coordinator Collin Klein. Klein, who left his alma mater Kansas State to make the jump to College Station, has always put an emphasis on the ground game, with the Wildcats finishing with the nation's 11th best rushing offense in 2023. He's going to bring that same mentality to his new digs with the Aggies and with Owens looking like the clear-cut top option in the backfield, this feels like a match made in heaven.

Jackson Bowers, TE, BYU

(2023 Stats: None)

The first season in Big 12 play was a wake up call for BYU, who limped to a 5-7 mark overall and 2-7 record in the league. As a result, head coach Kalani Sitake shuffled his coaching staff in preparation for 2024, including offensive line coach Darrell Funk and tight ends coach Steve Clark. New tight ends coach Kevin Gilbride, who arrives after spending most of the last decade in the NFL, fortunately has ample talent at his disposal, including a potential breakout candidate in Jackson Bowers. Bowers didn't see the field much as a true freshman, playing in just three games and not recording a single catch, but the big-bodied pass-catcher has all the physical tools to be a force and I suspect this Cougar offense will lean on their tight ends early and often in 2024. Converted receiver Keanu Hill is likely to begin the season as BYU's starter at the position, but Bowers, who stands at 6'5", 245 pounds but boasts remarkably soft hands, could evolve into the type of reliable red zone threat every team needs at the position. He's added 20 pounds since joining the program and now that he has a full year under his belt, I like his chances to emerge in this BYU offense. 

2025 NFL Draft Sneak Peek

Travis Hunter, Colorado

The 2024 NFL Draft will go down as one of the most memorable in NFL history, thanks in large part to the phenomenon of watching a whopping six quarterbacks go off the board within the first 12 picks. Even teams that appeared to have an established starter in the fold, namely Atlanta, invested in the position, yet another reminder of what a pass-centric league the NFL has become. The QB moves were also likely a reflection of what pro teams thought of the coming quarterback classes down the line - mainly a 2025 group that looks rather pedestrian. Yet, that should return the Draft to something resembling normalcy next year, with quality at just about every level on both sides of the ball. Plenty is sure to change between now and next spring, but these are the names to keep a close eye on as we slowly gear up for another football season on the horizon.

Quarterbacks

Quinn Ewers, Texas -- The 2024 season was a statement from Quinn Ewers, and Texas as a program. Ewers was a blue chip prospect who began his career at Ohio State before returning to the flagship university of his home state. He posted solid numbers in his first season as starter but injuries derailed what could have been a promising 2022 and with Arch Manning arriving on campus in the spring, attention quickly shifted away from the incumbent starter. The reduced pressure seemed to be a good thing for Ewers, and he responded with a year in which he tallied 3,479 yards, 27 total touchdowns, and a 69% completion rate, while leading the Longhorns to their first ever CFB Playoff berth. There remained a chance Ewers was going to come out for the 2024 NFL Draft but he instead opted to stay in Austin for one more season, and should begin the year as a Heisman frontrunner on a team with National Title aspirations. There will be work to do to prove to NFL teams that he's worthy of a high selection, but any Ewers detractors should go back and watch his tape against Alabama this past fall. He put on a masterful showing in primetime against a Tide defense that included several future NFL defensive backs, namely Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold. The jump to the SEC this season should be a good thing, giving him an opportunity to elevate his play against the most elite competition the sport has to offer and getting plenty of eye balls on him as he hopes for an epic finale to his college career.

Jalen Milroe, Alabama -- Alabama's quarterback battle was one of the most intriguing storylines of the early 2024 college football season, with Jalen Milroe emerging as the guy and leading the Tidee on an impressive Playoff run in Nick Saban's final run as head coach. Now entrenched as the starter, Milroe will have to adjust to a new offense ran by new head man Kalen DeBoer, one that will either be a match made in heaven for him, or threaten to be a disaster. DeBoer is an expert at scheming players wide open down the field and with Milroe's huge arm, it could be the scheme that fully unlocks his vast potential. Still, Milroe struggled with accuracy and decision-making in 2024, which was to be expected in his first year as starter, and he'll need to clean it up if he wants to have an NFL future. With that being said, there's not a QB in this class with his blend of size, arm strength, and running ability, a combination that is undoubtedly going to make some NFL folks fall in love.

Carson Beck, Georgia -- In the transfer portal era, Carson Beck represents a bit of a throwback, a former high profile recruit who waited his turn for years in Athens before winning himself the starting gig. And, it certainly panned out for Beck in 2024, as he threw for nearly 4,000 yards in a surprisingly aggressive Georgia aerial attack. Beck flirted with the idea of going pro, but instead returns for his senior season, hoping to get the Bulldogs back up the mountaintop following a disappointing conclusion to last fall. There's nothing about Beck that necessarily jumps out at you, but he's a fundamentally sound, accurate signal-caller who stands at 6'4" - that's awfully attractive for any pro team. He feels like the type of NFL prospect who isn't flashy, but will acclimate well to the pros and have a long and productive career somewhere. I am curious, however, if we see him unlock something even more in his second season as starter. We'll likely see the Bulldogs take their shots down the field with some of the pieces on this roster, and it will be interesting to see how Beck handles longer, more difficult throws as he looks to build his NFL resume.

Others to Watch

Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

Will Howard, Ohio State

Riley Leonard, Notre Dame

Cam Ward, Miami (FL)

Cade Klubnik, Clemson

Runningbacks

Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State -- Ollie Gordon II looked like a prime breakout candidate entering last season, but I'm not sure even the most optimistic Oklahoma State fan could have expected a Doak Walker Award caliber season from the tailback. He was just that good, totaling over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 21 rushing touchdowns, enough to finish seventh in Heisman voting. He'll get NFL looks thanks to his size (6'2", 220 pounds) and burst, potentially even first round consideration, a welcome change for the position after the first tailback went off the board 46th overall in Detroit (the second-latest in NFL Draft history). With that being said, we've seen countless college running backs fall back to Earth the season following a breakout - the Bryce Loves, the Leonard Fournettes, even fellow Oklahoma State product Chuba Hubbard. Gordon is good enough to reverse that trend, but it's something to monitor as he and the Cowboys gear up for the new-look Big 12.

TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State -- Ohio State has produced productive college running back after productive college running back in the last decade, from Ezekiel Elliott to J.K. Dobbins, to Trey Sermon. But, Buckeye tailbacks have struggled to take their talents to the next level in the pros, with mixed results to say the least. TreVeyon Henderson may be ready to change that, as the senior prepares for his fourth season as the feature option in Columbus. Henderson looked well on his way to superstardom in 2021, but injuries have derailed each of his last two seasons, likely a motivating factor in his eventual return. I firmly believe he's the nation's best when he's on the field, but he has to figure out a way to stay healthy. The addition of Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins throws a curveball into the mix - he'll either eat into Henderson's carries and hurt his stock, or help him take more of the load off and keep Henderson fresh and rested. Which direction things go remains to be seen, but Henderson should have an NFL future regardless.

Trevor Etienne, Georgia -- Trevor Etienne made waves over the offseason with his decision not just to transfer from Florida, but to go to a heated rival in the Georgia Bulldogs. But in a way, the move doesn't come as altogether too surprising, as he becomes the clear go-to guy in Athens instead of splitting carries with Montrell Johnson and goes to a program with a proven track record of producing NFL tailbacks. It's the type of situation that should bring out the best of a player who impressed during his two seasons in Gainesville, but seems to be just scratching the surface of his potential. Like his older brother Travis, Trevor Etienne's speed and explosiveness through the hole are a joy to watch, and if he can round out his game, he could be a first-round pick.

Others to Watch

Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State

Donovan Edwards, Michigan

Chez Mellusi, Wisconsin

Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

Nicholas Singleton, Penn State

Receivers

Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State -- The wide receiver factory at Ohio State continues. In fact, if not for the surprising decision by Emeka Egbuka to stick around for the 2024 season, the Buckeyes likely would have had two first-rounders at the position this spring. Considering that Egbuka's numbers tailed off during the 2023 season after a huge 2022, it's likely a smart move by the talented wide out, giving him a year as the top option in a Buckeye offense that should be improved. He's no Marvin Harrison Jr., but Egbuka is a speedster who you can imagine being a formidable deep threat at the next level. He should be the best among a good, but not great, 2025 receiver group.

Luther Burden III, Missouri -- Luther Burden III was a huge get for Eli Drinkwitz and the entire staff at Missouri, a consensus five-star prospect ranked as the top wide out in his class coming out of high school. After two seasons in Columbia, Burden has not disappointed, putting together a dominant 2023 in which he hauled in 86 receptions for 1,212 yards on a Tiger team that was one of the nation's most pleasant surprises. Even greater things are expected from Burden as he gears up for what will almost surely be his final year at Missouri, and he'll be a Biletnikoff Award frontrunner from Day One. As an NFL prospect, he's slightly undersized (5'11", 210 pounds) but is an elite athlete who has really worked on ironing out his entire game - he'll likely be a first round selection next spring.

Evan Stewart, Oregon -- Although Texas A&M's 2022 recruiting class, at the time considered the best ever, didn't come close to living up to those lofty expectations, wide out Evan Stewart proved to be a gem. The talented wide out impressed with 53 receptions for 649 yards as a true freshman and even though he didn't quite build on it in 2023, showcased the type of physical tools that should have NFL folks intrigued. Following Jimbo Fisher's firing, Stewart opted to head north to Oregon, where he should benefit from a fresh start in an offense that will be much more wide open than the group he ran with in College Station. He'll be catching passes from Dillon Gabriel and should have more opportunities down the field, a chance to showcase his blazing speed and acrobatic ability. There are some character concerns that Stewart may have to answer, but he's the type of prospect who could rise up boards quickly with a stellar 2024. He clearly has loads of talent, now it's all about harnessing it over the course of an entire year.

Others to Watch

Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

Isaiah Bond, Texas

Antwane Wells Jr., Ole Miss

Germie Bernard, Alabama

Bru McCoy, Tennessee

Tight Ends

Colston Loveland, Michigan -- Jim Harbaugh has produced plenty of elite tight ends over his time at Stanford and Michigan, and junior Colston Loveland is the latest in line. Even with Harbaugh now in the NFL, Loveland should remain a central focus in the Wolverine offense as they break in a new quarterback as a reliable, sure-handed pass-catcher with underrated physical gifts. He's surprisingly nimble for his size, but still blocks well for the position and should be able to bring that physicality to the next level. I don't think he's at Brock Bowers level from this past Draft, but feels like a guy who is going to have a lengthy NFL career - expect him to warrant first or second round consideration.

Mitchell Evans, Notre Dame -- Notre Dame has also produced countless NFL tight ends, and the next in line in South Bend is Mitchell Evans. He emerged from a crowded tight end room last fall to grab ahold of the position following the departure of Michael Mayer, finishing with 29 receptions for 422 yards. He's not the athlete Mayer was and isn't going to make the same type of impact in the passing game, but he's very effective at finding open space and moving the chains. He's also a skilled blocker who will play a pivotal role in an NFL team's rushing offense once he hits the pros. But, one area he'll have to improve at is in the red zone - just one touchdown reception last fall isn't going to cut it, but he should benefit from having Duke transfer Riley Leonard under center.

Oscar Delp, Georgia -- Brock Bowers is now as Las Vegas Raider, fully opening the door for Oscar Delp to emerge as the go-to guy at the tight end spot in Athens. Delp benefitted from the unfortunate injury to Bowers this past fall and ended up with 24 catches, but it feels like there's so much more that he can do as a 6'5", 245-pounder with real breakaway speed for the position. I could see Georgia using him in much the same way they used Bowers, lining him up all around and pinpointing key mismatches, and with Carson Beck feeding him the ball, he could work his way into No. 1 tight end territory.

Others to Watch

Luke Lachey, Iowa

Jake Briningstool, Clemson

Brant Kuithe, Utah

Mason Taylor, LSU

Jake Johnson, North Carolina

Offensive Linemen

Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas -- The most underrated aspect of Texas' success in 2023 was their offensive line. Steve Sarkisian and staff worked tirelessly to upgrade the unit after years of struggles from Mack Brown through Tom Herman, and it paid off in a big way last fall. Tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. was a major reason for that, allowing just one sack through all of 2023, despite consistently facing elite pass rushers from both Alabama in the non-conference and the Big 12 in-conference. He's played primarily tackle in the college ranks, but there are some that feel he may fit best at guard in the next level. Either way, he's got the looks of a future high draft selection, and moving to the SEC should give him a chance to show what he can do against the best the sport has to offer each week.

Will Campbell, LSU -- Will Campbell arrived in Baton Rouge and proceeded to start 13 games at left tackle his true freshman campaign, a remarkable feat for a teenager in the most competitive conference in America. And he was super impressive too, before building on it with another rock-solid campaign in 2023, helping spring the Heisman campaign of Jayden Daniels. As the Tigers break in a new quarterback, almost sure to be Garrett Nussmeier, Campbell will once again play a key role, and will enter the NFL with three years of starting experience in the SEC, one heck of a resume. As things stand today, he's firmly in the hunt to be the No. 1 pick come spring 2025.

Blake Miller, Clemson -- Clemson's Blake Miller is another guy who got the starting nod as a true freshman, and he's proceeded to start all 27 games of his collegiate career at right tackle. The moment hasn't been to big for him at any time, as he earned Freshman All-American honors in 2022, and then built on it with All-ACC recognition last season. Assuming he continues on his upwards trajectory, he's in good position to be the highest selected linemen of the Dabo Swinney era and should have a bright future as a tackle for an NFL team.

Others to Watch

Jonah Monheim, USC

Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

Wyatt Milum, West Virginia

Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

Tate Ratledge, Georgia

Defensive Linemen

James Pearce Jr., Tennessee -- Next year's defensive line group is looking strong, but Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. has a chance to be the best of the best. The junior had a breakout last fall after flashing in 2022, compiling 8.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss in an aggressive Volunteer defensive scheme. Amazingly, he projects even better to the pros as a long, athletic edge rusher with explosive playmaking ability. It will be interesting to see how he responds to the hype and heightened expectations in 2024 - he'll undoubtedly face double and triple teams all season long. That could give him an opportunity to showcase other parts of his game, most notably his work in run support. 

J.T. Tuimoloau, Ohio State -- J.T. Tuimoloau was another Buckeye who would have likely been a first or second round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft who decided to stay back for one more year. Now, he'll command an Ohio State defensive line that looks to be the most fearsome in all of FBS ball, flanked by Jack Sawyer and Tyleik Williams, who are also sure to be high draft picks. Tuimoloau is the headliner because of his ability to take over games - he's an unstoppable pass rusher who also has a knack for getting his hands in passing lanes. He is more comfortable on the edge and should play there in the pros, but has also shown the ability to kick inside and make his presence felt against slower interior linemen. It's likely to be a banner year for Tuimoloau on a team with serious National Title aspirations, the type of combination that could cement him as a No. 1 overall pick candidate.

Mason Graham, Michigan -- As compared to a James Pearce Jr. or J.T. Tuimoloau, both incredibly athletic and agile edge rushers, Mason Graham is a bit of a throwback interior linemen. He's not super flashy, but is a powerful defender with an unlimited motor. He just finds a way to impact the game every time he's on the field and there's no plays off, Graham is going to get after it. He'll be a central focus for new Michigan defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, whose background in the NFL should help him unlock even more from players like Graham.

Others to Watch

Patrick Payton, Florida State

Jack Sawyer, Ohio State

Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

Mykel Williams, Georgia

Abdul Carter, Penn State

Linebackers

Harold Perkins, LSU -- Harold Perkins is going to be a fascinating player to monitor this fall, the type of prospect who will either cement himself near the top of the Draft or potentially slide out of the first. Perkins was a superstar as a true freshman in 2022 and looked well on his way to being one of the faces of college football, but his size (6'1", 220 pounds) necessitated a move inside, where he struggled to make his presence felt. However, Perkins did flash as a coverage linebacker and if he can continue to improve in run support, the transition to inside linebacker could end up being a great thing for his career. We know Perkins has elite talent, now it's going to be about finding the right spot for his talents as LSU's new-look defense takes shape in 2024.

Smael Mondon Jr., Georgia -- There's a linebacker factory located in Athens, and Smael Mondon should be the next Georgia Bulldog to come out of it. Mondon may not be a Roquan Smith or Nakobe Dean, but he's an incredibly rangy inside linebacker with the ability to play sideline to sideline in a variety of defensive schemes. He's a proven tackler who should rack up plenty in 2024, but his return for his senior season was likely all about improving in other areas of his game, most notably in coverage. If he can also grow as a pass rusher, that will be another feather in his cap to sell to prospective NFL teams.

Jason Henderson, Old Dominion -- Old Dominion's Jason Henderson is the best college football player you've probably never heard of, a ferocious defender who has racked up a staggering 424 tackles over his three seasons with the Monarchs. But, Henderson isn't just a college star - he's going to get looks at the next level. Although a tad undersized, Henderson makes up for it with fabulous instincts and a real nose for the football, always finding himself in the right spot at the right time. He's the type of proven run defender in the middle that every NFL team covets and although his measurables won't jump off the page at you, I think he's going to go higher next year than most would think.

Others to Watch

Barrett Carter, Clemson

Jay Higgins, Iowa

Deontae Lawson, Alabama

Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma

Justin Flowe, Arizona

Defensive Backs

Travis Hunter, Colorado -- There may not be a more talented player in all of college football than Travis Hunter. The two-way phenom had no issues making the jump from Jackson State in the FCS ranks to the Power Five level with Colorado, although his production did tail off down the stretch as the Buffaloes sunk to the bottom of the Pac-12. You almost wonder if his ability to play both corner and receiver hurts him in some ways, and the Buffs will choose to go away from that in 2024. Unsurprisingly, Hunter was absolutely gassed week-in, week-out, and took an absolute beating. Still, a player this talented you understand why Colorado wants him on the field so often and his ability to impact the game is such a strong selling point for NFL teams. He's another name that is certainly in the mix for No. 1 pick consideration, and 2024 will be an important one.

Will Johnson, Michigan -- A Michigan legacy from Detroit, Will Johnson has lived up to all the hype that surrounded him coming out of high school. He enrolled early in winter of 2022 and proceeded to start all 14 games as a true freshman. But, 2023 was even better for him, as he allowed just 17 receptions on 321 coverage snaps, with zero touchdowns. Johnson did miss some time last year and was banged up, but as he prepares for 2024 and looks close to 100 percent, he'll be a Jim Thorpe Award favorite. He's not as flashy or attention-grabbing as Hunter, but I firmly believe he's the better overall corner as things stand today.

Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame -- Benjamin Morrison broke onto the scene for Notre Dame during the 2022 campaign, picking off six passes as a true freshman, including three in a win over Boston College. He wasn't quite able to live up those numbers last fall, with three interceptions, but he seemed to better round out his game, developing more consistency and improving in run support. Morrison looks to be one of the top corners in college football entering 2024 and his playmaking ability should garner him plenty of attention. With that being said, Morrison is another player who will have to get fully healthy, as he missed most of the spring with shoulder surgery.

Others to Watch

Malaki Starks, Georgia

Denzel Burke, Ohio State

Cobee Bryant, Kansas

Jabbar Muhammed, Oregon

Domani Jackson, Alabama