2024 NFL Draft FCS Scouting Reports Include Mason McCormick, Kiran Amegadjie, Jalyx Hunt, and Others

2024 NFL Draft FCS Scouting Reports Include Mason McCormick, Kiran Amegadjie, Jalyx Hunt, and Others


After only 12 FCS prospects were selected across the 2020 and 2021 NFL Drafts, 35 have heard their names called over the last two cycles (24 in 2022 and 11 in 2023).

How many will be chosen this April? Here are the FCS scouting reports for the top 80 small-school prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.

FCS Scouting Reports for the Top 80 Small-School Prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft

When scouting FCS prospects, it’s important to consider the level of competition. You want big-league talents to dominate at small schools, which the players have at several points.

However, most of them will have to enter the NFL via the undrafted player pool.

So, for the projection sections of the scouting reports, there will be three layers in addition to Rounds 1-7.

  • HPFA (high priority free agent): Worthy of being one of the first undrafted players signed.
  • PFA (priority free agent): Should be signed early from the UDFA pool and deserving of extended reps.
  • UDFA (undrafted free agent): Training camp invitees that will need to make a great first impression to elongate their NFL careers.

With the UFL taking flight and the CFL ever present, not to mention the Indoor Football League (IFL) and National Arena League (NAL), it’s not NFL-or-bust for draft prospects wanting to play football professionally.

Parker McKinney, QB | Eastern Kentucky

Strengths: Experienced player with just under 13,000 passing yards and 100 touchdowns in his career. Rarely turns pressures into sacks, owning a good feel in the pocket. Accurate arm with the ability to layer throws and adjust touch/velocity.

Weaknesses: Ran for 1,700-plus yards, but isn’t more than an average athlete. Can lose sight of roaming safeties, leading to dangerous throws over the middle. Will write checks his arm can’t cash as he doesn’t quite have the strength to fit into closing windows.

Overall: No one can take away from Parker McKinney’s All-American college career. He dominated at Eastern Kentucky and deserves a shot in the NFL. However, without the athleticism or arm strength to scare defenses, he’ll need to improve his decision-making, prove he can operate full-field reads, and speed up his processing.

Projection: PFA

Davius Richard, QB | North Carolina Central

Strengths: A true dual-threat with the athleticism to burn defenses with his legs. Two-time MEAC Offensive Player of the Year and is a leader on the field. Showcased NFL-level throws multiple times on film. Good size at 6’2″, 225 pounds.

Weaknesses: Suffered a dislocated ankle during the HBCU Legacy Bowl in February, which could delay his ability to perform on the field early on. Coming from an RPO-heavy system with few NFL concepts. Can struggle with consistency as a passer, largely stemming from an erratic base. Wind-up throwing motion can be more efficient, but isn’t a death knell.

Overall: Davius Richard’s untimely ankle injury knocks him from a high-priority free agent to a PFA, but he has the tools teams look for in a modern-day QB. However, he’s still a raw prospect who needs time to refine his craft mechanically and mentally.

Projection: PFA

Kiran Amegadjie, OT | Yale

Strengths: Power people mover at 6’5″ and 323 pounds with 36″ arms. Explosive with the short-area athleticism to be effective when pulling and working to the second level. Length and power profile thwart pass-rush attempts and force edge rushers to take the long way to QBs. Has tackle/guard versatility.

Weaknesses: Still has a way to go as a technician, with false steps and improper hand placements resulting in losses as a pass protector. Tends to play over his center of gravity, allowing weaker opponents to win battles. Had quad surgery that ended his final season after only four games.

Overall: Kiran Amegadjie possesses all the tools an NFL O-line coach could dream of. He’s not 100% healthy just yet and needs to grow fundamentally, but the Yale OL should hear his name called on late Day 2/early Day 3.

Projection: Rounds 3-4

Want more information on Amegadjie? Here’s our expanded scouting report and draft profile: Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale | NFL Draft Scouting Report

Jalyx Hunt, EDGE | Houston Christian

Strengths: Elite athlete with excellent size. Impressive bend and maintains speed around corners. A former safety with alignment versatility and the ability to spot-drop in coverage.

Weaknesses: Can be more disciplined in run defense. Lacks imposing play strength at the point of attack. Raw as a pass rusher, lacking a diverse pass-rush plan. Tackles with strong punches can knock his lean lower body off balance.

Overall: While Jalyx Hunt has shown flashes with his hands, he has relied heavily on his physical gifts to win reps. Regardless, his explosiveness, length, and bend will have defensive coordinators drooling. As a result, Hunt shouldn’t have to wait too long for his phone to start ringing.

Projection: Rounds 3-4

Want more information on Hunt? Here’s our expanded scouting report and draft profile: Jalyx Hunt, EDGE, Houston Baptist | NFL Draft Scouting Report

Owen Glascoe, TE | Long Island

Strengths: Versatile 6’2″ and 244-pound TE who served as a Wildcat for QB at Long Island. A threat after the catch with the wiggle to make defenders miss. Good top-of-route deception to create separation. Catches passes away from his frame, with several highlight-reel receptions on film.

Weaknesses: Not a proven vertical weapon, deployed closer to the line of scrimmage throughout his five collegiate seasons. Takes several extra steps at the top of routes to decelerate. Occasional lapses resulted in several drops in the last two seasons. Not an impact blocker, but is servicable, especially with improved technique.

Overall: Owen Glascoe was a do-it-all playmaker for Long Island, but focusing on a single position/alignment would’ve benefited him as a draft prospect. Still, his ability to serve as a fullback/tight end/gadget weapon will entice teams after the draft.

Projection: PFA

Josiah Ezirim, OT | Eastern Kentucky

Strengths: Only played offensive line his last two seasons at EKU and showcased immense growth from 2022 to 2023. Moves well at nearly 6’6″ and 325 pounds with 35″ arms. Disciplined and durable with a “kill or be killed” mindset.

Weaknesses: Lateral quickness leaves a lot to be desired. If he doesn’t get his hands on faster edge rushers, he’ll struggle. Inexperience has led to an inconsistent ability to recover. Raises pad level too quickly, allowing defenders to get under him. Plays over his toes, slipping off blocks in the run game more often than you’d like.

Overall: Josiah Ezirim is a developmental prospect, but one worth drafting on Day 3. His size and athleticism will entice NFL franchises, as will his year-over-year growth. He shouldn’t be asked to play early on, but his returns in Year 2-4 could pay dividends with the right coaching staff.

Projection: Rounds 5-6

Khristian Boyd, DT | Northern Iowa

Strengths: Coming off back-to-back elite run-stuffing seasons, but vastly improved in the pass-rush department in 2023. Dense 6’2″ and 328-pound frame holds up well versus double teams. Can two-gap from the nose with his core strength. Explodes into contact at the snap. Easily sheds blocks on the interior.

Weaknesses: Longer linemen can give him issues in pass protection. Aims to generate penetration but loses control once he does and doesn’t have the athleticism to recover. Can drift upright through contact, mitigating his leverage advantage. As a 24-year-old sixth-year senior, how much “potential” is left?

Overall: After the 2022 season, it appeared Khristian Boyd was part of a dying breed: primary run defenders who are taken off the field on obvious passing downs. Yet, his improved pass-rush toolbox (on full display at the Shrine Bowl) and ability to harness his immense power has skyrocketed his draft stock.

Projection: Rounds 4-5

Want more information on Boyd? Here’s our expanded scouting report and draft profile: Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa | NFL Draft Scouting Report

Levi Drake Rodriguez, DT | Texas A&M Commerce

Strengths: Violent defender with a relentless drive. Rarely gets stuck to blocks. Fires off the ball with impressive body control and lateral agility.

Weaknesses: Hand usage needs an overhaul — currently wins solely on activity and urgency. Near-average in every size and athleticism metric. Can lose control of gaps in the run game. Dominated NAIA and FCS competition, but hasn’t faced NFL-level O-linemen.

Overall: Levi Drake Rodriguez’s mediocre size/athleticism profile and competition level will likely see him go undrafted. However, his temperament and growth trajectory are worth adding to a roster.

Projection: PFA

Sundiata Anderson, EDGE | Grambling State

Strengths: Produced three straight All-SWAC campaigns after overcoming wrist surgery (2018), ulcerative colitis (2019), and a four-game COVID-19 season (2020). Quantifiably explosive with long arms (33 7/8″) and quick feet. Sideline-to-sideline pursuit range on the move. Reliable tackler with strong hands to wrench himself free in run defense.

Weaknesses: Underpowered, and his pass rush often stalls against hulking linemen. Can stand to add more pass-rush moves and develop hand usage to counter. Setting the edge against the run isn’t a trademark part of his game.

Overall: Despite attending Grambling for six years, Sundiata Anderson still has plenty of room to grow. He clearly has the playmaker gene — he just needs a team to be patient and put him in a position to succeed (5-tech in a 4-3 system).

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Jalen Coker, WR | Holy Cross

Strengths: Experience as a team’s No. 1 receiving option. Explosive in short areas and at the catch point. Strong hands catcher, keeping the ball away from his frame. Physical at the top of routes to create separation. Ball-tracking savant, putting himself in the best position to make a play.

Weaknesses: Mainly beat DBs who won’t make the NFL. Doesn’t have the deep speed to truly threaten NFL defenses vertically. Will struggle to free himself against press off the line. Won’t make many defenders miss after the catch.

Overall: Jalen Coker’s highlights are filled with incredible catches and big plays downfield, but the latter likely won’t translate to the league. What he lacks in deep speed and suddenness, he makes up for in route running, leaping ability, and dependable hands.

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Isaiah Davis, RB South Dakota State

Strengths: Compact build with the strength and leg churn to gain yards after contact. Good footwork and vision to follow blocks to greener pastures. Agile on single cuts and tempos strides/steps to create in tight areas. Remains balanced through runs and rarely lets the ball hit the turf (three fumbles on 729 career touches).

Weaknesses: Not a plus in the receiving game or as a pass blocker. Not fluid when changing directions. Speed limits ability to turn the corner on outside runs.

Overall: Isaiah Davis’ skill set is perfect for gap schemes, and he’ll appeal to teams whose running games revolve around it. His overall athleticism and long speed will leave some franchises wanting more, but he maximizes what he has.

Projection: Rounds 5-6

Want more information on Davis? Here’s our expanded scouting report and draft profile: Isaiah Davis, RB, South Dakota State | NFL Draft Scouting Report

Garret Greenfield, OT | South Dakota State

Strengths: Extensive experience at both left and right tackle. Light on his feet with impressive range and mobility, allowing him to mirror quicker EDGEs. Latches on to defenders with solid grip strength.

Weaknesses: Older prospect — will turn 25 during his rookie season. Not a bulldozing run blocker. Loses ground quickly to power rushers due to lighter frame (6’5″, 310 pounds) and core strength. Punches don’t knock back defenders.

Overall: Zone-blocking teams will love Garret Greenfield due to his ability on the move. He won’t generate a lot of push in the running game, and powerful edge rushers could give him problems early on, but Greenfield’s mirroring prowess and pass protection potential are worth a Day 3 selection.

Projection: Rounds 5-6

Mason McCormick, OL | South Dakota State

Strengths: Size, length, and athleticism combo is impressive. Road-grading mentality as a run blocker. Effective in space and working to the second level. Has the explosiveness to work across face-on zone blocks. Wide base and tight hands absorb power in pass pro, and his grip/core strength can win control.

Weaknesses: Tested well but a bit stiff moving laterally. Nearly all of his college snaps came at left guard (zero at any other position since 2019). Hand placement can be inconsistent, and will hold with wide hands rather than replace them inside. Can drift upright, giving up leverage early at times.

Overall: Mason McCormick is this year’s mauling FCS offensive lineman, following in the footsteps of Northern Iowa’s Trevor Penning (2022) and NDSU’s Cody Mauch (2023). He doesn’t have the same high-end potential as those two, but a team could draft him on Day 2.

Projection: Rounds 3-4

Want more information on McCormick? Here’s our expanded scouting report and draft profile: Mason McCormick, OL, South Dakota State | NFL Draft Scouting Report

PJ Jules, DB | Southern Illinois

Strengths: Played significant snaps at outside corner, in the slot, in the box, and at free safety. Strong tackler when in control. Willing and able to step into the box and trigger downhill. Sufficient burst and change of direction to keep up with pass catchers from the slot.

Weaknesses: 26-year-old rookie. Can be overaggressive against the run, leaving gaps open. Not snappy at breaks in coverage, taking extra steps to get out. Can miss tackles by not timing his strikes correctly. Can get lost with his eyes in the wrong place in zone coverage.

Overall: Age and a shortage of high-end traits will presumably drop PJ Jules out of the draft, but it shouldn’t be long before teams come calling. His versatility in the back end and special teams ability can earn him a roster spot.

Projection: HPFA

Zareon Hayes, EDGE | Alabama A&M

Strengths: Uses natural leverage (nearly 6’1″) and speed to his advantage while also flashing multiple pass-rush moves. Slips through gaps in the run game with the range to track down ball carriers from the backside. High-effort athlete able to make a play late in the down.

Weaknesses: Size constraints are a problem as a tackler. Longer and bulkier linemen thwart pass-rush attempts. Can get washed out against the run when linemen latch on.

Overall: Zareon Hayes likely won’t be drafted — even after an impressive showing at the HBCU Legacy Bowl. Yet, his pass-rush upside is worth a look during training camp and could keep him on a practice squad early on.

Projection: UDFA

Jaden Shirden, RB | Monmouth

Strengths: Home-run threat with the ball in his hands. No wasted motion in the backfield — bursts toward open space. Averaged 7.3 yards for his career, rushing for 1,400-plus yards the last two years. Stays balanced and can bounce off second-level tackles. Light feet bounce from gap to gap, and he has the acceleration to dart through holes.

Weaknesses: Doesn’t have much more room to add muscle to his frame (5’8″ and 187 pounds) without zapping patented athleticism. Can get impatient trying to make something out of nothing rather than allowing his blocks to unfold. Will need to be more disciplined, as cutback and outside lanes won’t be as available as they were against FCS competition.

Overall: Jaden Shirden’s size will place him lower on some teams’ boards, but in the right system — cough, Kyle Shanahan’s tree, cough — he could be dangerous as a depth/rotational piece to begin his career.

Projection: Round 7-HPFA

David White Jr., WR | Western Carolina

Strengths: Works to stack DBs downfield, using his off arm to keep his frame clean of hands. Explosive with the change of direction to create separation in space. Quick off the line and a fluid mover down the field. Showed a solid release package at Shrine Bowl after earning a call-up from the Hula Bowl.

Weaknesses: Didn’t surpass 500 yards in either of the last two seasons. Doesn’t have imposing size (6’2″, 201) or intimidating long speed (4.58 40-yard dash).

Overall: Gaudy physical traits and/or elite production vault FCS players to selections in the NFL Draft. David White Jr. has neither, which could knock him into the free agent pool. But there, his movement skills and nuanced route running/releases will stand out.

Projection: PFA

Mikey Victor, DB | Alabama State

Strengths: Size (6’2″, 205) profile teams covet on the outside. Uses long arms to reroute and press WRs off the line. Able to shrink throwing windows and contest targets with his reactiveness and leaping ability. Improved as a tackler from 2022 to 2023 and isn’t afraid to get dirty against the run.

Weaknesses: Limited linear speed (4.64 40-yard dash) is a concern in single coverage. Clunky transitioning out of his backpedal and doesn’t have the acceleration to make up ground when lost. Can be grabby at times, but didn’t result in many penalties in college.

Overall: Mikey Victor deserves a shot to play CB in the league, but a move to safety may be best for his long-term viability. Either way, he has the size and temperament teams desire in their secondary.

Projection: Round 7-HPFA

Dylan Laube, RB | New Hampshire

Strengths: Lateral luminary able to teleport between gaps and make defenders miss in the open field. Stop-start ability and low center of gravity translate to gap schemes. The best pass-catching RB in the class, owning a sought-after third-down ability. Adds value as a kick/punt returner.

Weaknesses: Doesn’t have the strength to push piles on inside runs despite effort. Arm length (29 3/8″) and height (5’10”) make him a smaller target for QBs to hit past the line of scrimmage. Must improve technique as a pass blocker to reliably pick up blitzes.

Overall: Special teams value and receiver-esque ability give Dylan Laube a leg up over some other RB prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. He doesn’t possess the long speed to take runs to the house or the power profile to pick up short yardage on his own, but Laube has few critical pitfalls in his game.

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Jaxon and Jadon Janke, WRs | South Dakota State

Strengths: Good size at 6’2″, 210-plus pounds. Functional athleticism in all facets. Contested-catch connoisseurs who are able to high-point passes and come down with difficult grabs. Inside/outside versatility. Sought-after body control to adjust to passes. Vary tempos during routes to set up DBs for fakes. Willing and capable run blockers.

Weaknesses: Smaller hands and shorter arms lead to a tighter throwing window than their size would usually warrant. Deep speed won’t scare CBs in man coverage. Round routes due to lack of explosiveness and hip sink at the break. Average YAC ability.

Overall: As twin brothers with similar career numbers and size/speed profiles, there’s little that separates Jaxon and Jadon Janke from each other on the field. Both are solidly built WRs with the intangibles coaches will love in camps.

Projection: HPFA

Ryan Flournoy, WR | Southeast Missouri State

Strengths: Athletic traits that translate to the NFL (4.44 40-yard dash, 39.5″ vertical, and 11’0″ broad). Routinely sells vertical on route stems with the speed to keep CBs honest. Works back to the ball rather than waiting for it. Dependable hands — only a few drops on film in two years at SEMO. Legitimate YAC threat in space.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent getting off press at the line. Relied on physical superiority to create separation due to competition level — not a nuanced route runner. Tore right ACL twice (summer 2019 and spring 2020). Footwork needs work at the line and at the breakpoint.

Overall: Physical tools. Check. Production. Check. Inspiring Senior Bowl performance. Check. There’s a lot to like about Ryan Flournoy, but the concerns on his profile (namely route running, suddenness, and health) hinder his draft ceiling.

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Anim Dankwah, OT | Howard

Strengths: Suffocating frame (6’8″, 353 pounds with 35″ arms). Impressive maneuverability for his massive size. Easily directs defenders when he gets hands on them in the run game. Casts a wide net in pass pro with active hands.

Weaknesses: Top-heavy tackle, playing over his nose more than desired. Doesn’t always maximize his length advantage, allowing EDGEs into his chest. Can overset and doesn’t have the foot speed to recover. Play falls off the further out in space he operates. Missed five games in 2021 and 2022 due to injuries.

Overall: A team will take a shot on Anim Dankwah’s God-given size toward the end of Day 3. He’s a raw prospect coming from a smaller school, but you won’t find his upside late in the draft every cycle.

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Jalen Sundell, OT | North Dakota State

Strengths: Can line up at all five O-line spots in a pinch and hold his own. Heat-seeking missile as a puller and working to the second level. Agile lower half can mirror quicker defenders. Owns independent and active hands to punch and counter.

Weaknesses: Not an imposing blocker — punches lack knock-back power. Can play over his center of gravity, providing openings for defenders to throw him off balance. Insufficient grip strength and leg drive are easy to see in the run game.

Overall: Jalen Sundell’s power profile is worrisome, but if he can add strength without hindering his agility, he can stick on a roster.

Projection: PFA

Javan Morgan, S | Florida A&M

Strengths: Versatile safety with experience in single-high and two-high looks, and in the slot. Noted ball hawk with 10 INTs across the last three seasons, consistently putting himself in a position to make a play. Closing burst in coverage shrinks throwing windows.

Weaknesses: Size (5’10”, 183) likely pigeonholes him to the slot in the pros. Can be late to react to movement in front of him. Inconsistent tackling angles and technique result in missed attempts. Linear athlete with some stiffness changing directions.

Overall: Javan Morgan is a fun HBCU player to watch, but may have to make his mark on special teams to stick on a team.

Projection: UDFA

C.J. Hanson, G | Holy Cross

Strengths: Upper and lower body synergy allowed for sustained engagements. Excellent punches with tight elbows. Athletic enough to pull and operate at the second level. Understands landmarks in the ground game and has the grip strength to latch and move.

Weaknesses: Played exclusively at right guard in college. Must bulk up to hold up against NFL DTs. Pads can drift upright during reps, diminishing his anchor and mirroring ability. Won’t displace defenders in the run game.

Overall: C.J. Hanson is a detail-oriented guard without the power to do much more than survive early on and needs time to develop his body.

Projection: Rounds 6-7

Myles Harden, CB | South Dakota

Strengths: Improved as a tackler in each of the last three years. Willing run defender with the hit power of a safety. Fluid and balanced in all phases. Plays through WRs’ hands, constantly breaking up contested targets. High football IQ and vision in zone, mapping out routes.

Weaknesses: Back-to-back season-ending injuries in 2021 (broken fibula) and 2022 (foot). Arm length (29 7/8″) and height (5’11”) are on the lower percentile for boundary corners. Average acceleration can get him beat downfield and at the break.

Overall: Some teams may want to move Myles Harden into a safety/nickel-only role to highlight his strengths, but he deserves a shot on the outside during training camp.

Projection: Rounds 5-6

Nate Lynn, EDGE | William & Mary

Strengths: Finished No. 2 in career sacks (28) and No. 3 in tackles for loss (40) in school history. Extensive experience from 3 to 7-tech. Competitive defender with the edge you want on the D-line. Active hands work to keep his frame clean as a pass rusher. Makes up for average length and speed with pop on contact.

Weaknesses: Doesn’t have the sand in his pants to set the edge at 6’2″ and 253 pounds. Not an overly athletic pass rusher, relying on his hands to generate wins. Longer, stronger NFL OTs will severely decrease his margin for error.

Overall: Nate Lynn is a proven finisher with a high motor, but his tools mitigate his ability to impact a game.

Projection: UDFA

Zach Heins, TE | South Dakota State

Strengths: Red-zone weapon at 6’6″ and 260 pounds. One of the best run-blocking TEs in the class. Soft hands and will finish through contact.

Weaknesses: Will never be a true receiving tight end, doing his damage underneath as a safety blanket rather than stretching seams. Near-zero YAC potential. Strictly an in-line TE at the next level.

Overall: Zach Heins is a relatively easy evaluation — you either have a role for him in your offense or you don’t.

Projection: PFA

Hayden Hatten, WR | Idaho

Strengths: Big-time producer with exceptional hands. Outstanding body control in the air and along the sidelines. Tough over-the-middle pass catcher with the awareness to slip into holes against zone coverage.

Weaknesses: Not a vertical threat (4.63 40-yard dash). Lacking lateral agility results in a below-average change of direction and quickness in and out of breaks. Takes what he gets after the catch — won’t make defenders miss.

Overall: Hayden Hatten’s poor speed and COD will make it difficult to stick in a league with athletic marvels. Yet, reliability is a trait of its own, and he has it in spades.

Projection: UDFA

Braxton Hill, LB | Montana

Strengths: Went from walk-on to team captain and Buck Buchanan Award Finalist in 2023. Well-built 6’2″ and 230-pound LB with agile lower half. Pass-rush threat as a blitzer from the second level and off the edge. Clean tackler despite slightly below-average arm length. Good closing burst and range at linebacker. Plus special teamer.

Weaknesses: Will struggle to carry routes vertically due to lack of speed. Only one year of full-time starting experience as a sixth-year senior. Can be fooled by ball fakes and take a second or two to process play-action. Longer linemen can latch on and ride him out of run plays. Indecisiveness leaves him a tick behind.

Overall: Braxton Hill has the tools and intangibles to last as a special teamer, but his processing speed and run defense concerns against NFL linemen cap his ceiling.

Projection: UDFA

Matthew Cook, K | Northern Iowa

Strengths: Was 100% on extra points in his career (113 of 113). Made 88.2% of field goals, including 20 of 24 on 40-plus yarders. Five years of kickoff experience.

Weaknesses: Only eight 40-plus yard attempts in the last two years. Low hangtime on kickoffs due to leg strength at 5’11”.

Overall: What Matthew Cook lacks in leg strength, he makes up for in accuracy and is worth a look during training camp.

Projection: PFA

Billy Shaeffer, LB | Lafayette

Strengths: Shoots out of a cannon when he identifies the play. Has legitimate pass-rush ability. Finalist for Buck Buchanan Award in 2023 after posting 83 tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 10 sacks, and five forced fumbles. Good eyes in zone coverage.

Weaknesses: Missed significant time in 2021 and 2022 due to two separate injuries. Played in the slot in college but doesn’t have the speed to carry routes vertically or the short-area burst to keep up with NFL pass catchers there. Missed a tackle in nearly every game last year.

Overall: Billy Shaeffer’s tweener DL/LB role worked in college but won’t in the NFL. Teams will have to decide where he will specialize (likely off-ball LB with pass-rush utilization).

Projection: PFA

Mason Pline, TE | Furman

Strengths: Basketball background is easy to see on film, rising above the rim for passes. Large catch radius at 6’6″ with 33″ arms. Red-zone threat, boxing out defenders, and coming down with contested targets.

Weaknesses: Still working on nuances as a run blocker and route runner. Has some wiggle in the open field but won’t make many defenders miss. Only played football significantly for one year in college.

Overall: Mason Pline is the epitome of a project but is worth a practice squad stash.

Projection: PFA

Bryce Oliver, WR | Youngstown State

Strengths: Soft hands over the middle with long arms to pluck passes from the air. Has the height/weight/athleticism combo to win on the boundary. Good body control when the ball is in the air.

Weaknesses: Spent nearly all of his time outside — little experience in the slot. Not a home-run threat in space or a downfield speedster. Gives up inside leverage too easily. Press coverage gave him issues, even against FCS opponents.

Overall: Bryce Oliver has the size and athletic ability that will translate to the league, but he has to shade in the details of his game.

Projection: PFA

Ty James, WR | Mercer

Strengths: Two-time FCS All-American with 3,000-plus yards, 30 TDs, and 10 school records on his resume. Beats press off the line with releases and swipes/swims. Physical at the LOS and at the break and will attack leverage to create separation.

Weaknesses: Won’t take the top off a defense. Too many passes get into his body — must catch with his hands extended from his frame to limit drops and keep DBs away from the ball. Change of direction is average at best and shows up on hard-breaking routes.

Overall: Ty James has the production and tape to warrant a last-round selection with the physicality to make the investment worth it.

Projection: Round 7-HPFA

Devron Harper, WR | Mercer

Strengths: Return ace (one kick return TD and three punt return TDs in the last three seasons). Effective as a runner, both as an RB and as a WR on jet sweeps/pitches. Blazing acceleration laterally and upfield.

Weaknesses: Awfully small (5’8″ and 160 pounds). Not a clean route runner — more of an athlete who can catch than a true receiver. Got behind FCS defenses, but long speed (4.59 40) isn’t as dangerous in the NFL.

Overall: With the new kickoff rules, Devron Harper’s skill set is even more intriguing and should earn him multiple camp invites.

Projection: PFA

Qwahsin Townsel, LB | Hampton

Strengths: Quick to react to play fakes and knife into gaps against the run with an ever-moving lower half. Throws all 5’11” and 230 pounds of his frame into blocks. Efficient blitzer.

Weaknesses: Overaggression and inconsistent technique can lead to missed tackles. Relative unknown in coverage, but available reps show an LB who struggles in man coverage vs. quicker RBs/TEs, and his minimal speed allows pass catchers to gain YAC running away from him.

Overall: Qwahsin Townsel is part of a dying breed as a thumping run defender from the second level. Heat-seeking LBs who fly around the field still provide value, but his lack of coverage prowess will keep him off the field on obvious passing downs.

Projection: UDFA

Jesus Gibbs, DL | Towson

Strengths: Made Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List last offseason with a 37″ vertical, 10″ broad, and 1.58-second 10-yard split. Versatile from 3- to 7-tech on the defensive line. Good burst and pop on contact, brings the fight to a lineman’s chest. Moves well laterally with fluid hips.

Weaknesses: A bit of a tweener at nearly 6’3″, 270 pounds with 32″ arms. Liable to miss a few tackles. Can be washed out in the run game by bigger linemen.

Overall: Jesus Gibbs is a fun watch and fits best as a 4-3 defensive end in the league. He’ll need to refine his hand usage to make up for his limited arm length, but there is enough there to work with.

Projection: UDFA

Clay Fields III, S | Chattanooga

Strengths: Significant reps at deep safety, in the box, and in the slot for two different programs (Marist, 2019-2022; Chattanooga, 2023). Keeps receivers in front of him, limiting YAC. Has the speed (4.47 40) and athleticism (37″ vert, 10’2″ broad, 4.21 shuttle) to carry routes vertically.

Weaknesses: His 5’9″, 188-pound frame is relegated to the slot/box. 29″ arms are apparent when trying to wrap up ball carriers and contest targets against larger pass catchers.

Overall: There is an abundance of slot DBs entering the NFL each year, and although the role is immensely valuable in today’s league, the sheer supply drives down demand.

Projection: UDFA

Sam Schnee, WR | Northern Iowa

Strengths: Used to being underrated (walk-on to first-team all-conference in 2023). Soft hands underneath and over the middle, coming down with tough grabs through contact. RB background evident in movement skills in the open field.

Weaknesses: Inside WR only; meager outside capability. Small throwing window (5’10” with 29″ arms). Rounds routes and didn’t have to be as precise against level of competition.

Overall: With the increase in the need for slot WRs, Sam Schnee shouldn’t have a difficult time receiving camp invites.

Projection: PFA

Theo Day, QB | Northern Iowa

Strengths: Pro-ready frame (6’5″, 224 pounds). Big-time arm, freely transferring weight. Will pepper the whole field, spreading the ball around rather than locking on to his top target.

Weaknesses: Not a rushing threat. Decision-making took a hit from 2022 to 2023 — doubled turnover-worthy throws and turned pressures into sacks at a higher rate. Elongated, wind-up throwing motion.

Overall: Theo Day has NFL size and arm strength, allowing him to fit throws into tight windows. Still, he’ll need time to speed up his throwing motion and processing speed.

Projection: PFA

Michael Hiers, QB | Samford

Strengths: Accurate with excellent ball placement. Quick, snappy throwing motion. Went through his progressions, not forcing passes early. Knows when to loft a pass or throw a heater, layering between defenders.

Weaknesses: Low average depth of target — didn’t work the intermediate portion of the field often, and a quarter of his passes were behind the LOS. Won’t pick up yards with his legs often. Poor pocket awareness led to way too many sacks and fumbles.

Overall: Michael Hiers doesn’t have the frame (6’1″, 205 pounds) or athleticism teams want at the position, but you can’t teach his accuracy.

Projection: PFA

Mason Tipton, WR | Yale

Strengths: Elite testing numbers (4.33 40, 37″ vert, and 10’5″ broad). Obvious burner downfield. Sudden mover, easily routes up longer-legged/higher-hipped CBs. Reliable hands, ball tracking, and body control.

Weaknesses: Undersized at 5’10” and 179 pounds. Not fluid laterally — more of a linear athlete. Won’t make defenders miss in the open field — will only pick up YAC with speed. Spent most of the time on the boundary when he’ll be a slot-only WR due to his size.

Overall: Mason Tipton’s film matches his athletic testing, and the NFL will always value speed. Yet, he is undersized and will need to master his routes to win against professional DBs.

Projection: HPFA

Cam Grandy, TE | Illinois State

Strengths: Consensus first-team All-American in one and only FCS season after transferring from Division II Missouri Western. Strong hands that come down with contested targets. Strong run and pass blocker. Understands leverage and sifts into soft spots in zone.

Weaknesses: Uninspiring athlete before and after the catch. Strictly an in-line TE. Will lean forward with the ball in his hands but won’t make defenders miss tackles.

Overall: Cam Grandy is what he is: an in-line TE built for 12- and 13-personnel-heavy teams. His ceiling is restricted by his athleticism (or lack thereof), but he is serviceable at what he’ll be asked to do.

Projection: UDFA

Mike Edwards, OT | Campbell

Strengths: 6’5″, 363 pounds, and 35″ arms envelop pass rushers. Mauler in the run game. Moves well for his size, able to disengage and re-engage opponents.

Weaknesses: Major injury concerns — missed all of 2019, four games in 2021, and two games each in 2022 and 2023. Must keep weight in check. Sluggish feet/hands will be accentuated in the NFL.

Overall: Mike Edwards’ sheer size will earn attention in the NFL Draft, possibly even in the final round. However, he has to refine his technique in pass protection to be a mainstay in the league.

Projection: HPFA

Tyler McLellan, OT | Campbell

Strengths: Towering 6’7″ and 321-pound frame forces defenders to go around him rather than through. Easily displaces defenders in the ground game. Varies hand placement/usage so pass rushers can’t anticipate pre-snap.

Weaknesses: Despite massive size, he only has 32″ arms. Lined up solely at right tackle in his career. Missed all of 2018 and most of 2022 due to injury. Gains little ground with his kick step. Height naturally makes leverage an issue.

Overall: Tyler McLellan has NFL size but lacks NFL athleticism. He’ll need to become a master of the intricacies of the position to stick around.

Projection: UDFA

Lorenzo Thompson, OT | Rhode Island

Strengths: Started 34 straight games, earning back-to-back All-CAA honors. Has the foot speed to mirror rushers on the edge. Aims to de-cleat defenders in the run game. Quick get-off at the line of scrimmage.

Weaknesses: 32″ arms and 305-pound frame signal a move to guard in the NFL. Bull rushes can give him trouble despite good pass sets. Raises his pad level into contact, diminishing play strength.

Overall: Lorenzo Thompson’s contractions will likely relegate him to the interior in the NFL, but he has the athleticism and attitude coaches can work with.

Projection: PFA

Jacob Johanning, G | Furman

Strengths: Four-year starter with LG/RG versatility. Strong lower half to anchor. Functionally athletic and in control as a puller. Possesses natural leverage at 6’2″. Keeps his head on a swivel in pass pro.

Weaknesses: Sluggish feet on the move and when attempting to reset his base in pass pro. Beefier D-linemen can manhandle his 290-pound frame and 31″ arms. Hand usage can be inconsistent, landing wide.

Overall: Jacob Johanning’s size will give him trouble in the NFL, but if he can add good weight and improve his hand usage, he can stick on a team as a reserve lineman.

Projection: PFA

Lawrence Johnson, S | Southeast Missouri State

Strengths: Four years of starting experience with 283 tackles and 22 pass deflections to his name. Saw significant snaps at deep safety, in the slot, and in the box. Stays tight in coverage, conceding little yardage after the catch. Size/speed profile to play nickel in the league.

Weaknesses: Tackle form can be more consistent. Doesn’t have plus range as a single-high safety. Stiff as a lateral mover. Speed tops out quickly — doesn’t have another gear to chase down pass catchers from behind. Struggles to shed blocks. Slow to process play fakes and rushing lanes.

Overall: Lawrence Johnson is best deployed near the ball as a box/slot safety, but he’ll need to improve his awareness and ability to get off blocks.

Projection: UDFA

Isaiah Stalbird, LB/S | South Dakota State

Strengths: Solidly built safety (5’11 3/4″, 221) with speed (4.49 40). Significantly improved as a tackler from 2022 to 2023 with a clear emphasis on technique. Can stack and shed in the box and off the edge against TEs. Smooth in coverage and rarely beat deep from the slot (allowed only two 20+ yard receptions in 2023).

Weaknesses: Awareness in zone can lag — will keep eyes glued to the QB and lose feeling for pass catchers around him. Longer tackles take him out on run downs. Can be late triggering downhill, waiting for a clear shot at the ball carrier rather than sifting through gaps.

Overall: Isaiah Stalbird’s movement ability at his size makes him perfect as a nickel. He’ll have to prove he can get off blocks against NFL players, but he has the tools to do so.

Projection: HPFA

Quinten Arello, S | Dartmouth

Strengths: Owns all the physical gifts teams covet: 6’0″, 202 pounds, 4.49 40, 43 1/2″ vert, 10’6″ broad, 4.23 shuttle, and 6.88 three-cone. Three-year starter with linear growth from each season. Controlled tackler, wrapping up pass catchers before they can generate YAC. Has good range as a single-high safety.

Weaknesses: Played primarily deep safety with few reps at other alignments. Can trigger downhill and meet RBs in the hole, but if blockers get their hands on him, he gets stuck. Large unknown in man coverage and facing WRs from the slot.

Overall: Quinten Arello has elite athleticism, but the Ivy League isn’t the NFL. While he’ll face an enormous transition, he has the God-given ability to bet on.

Projection: PFA

Griffin McDowell, OL | Chattanooga

Strengths: Switched from OL to DL to TE back to OL at Florida. Moves well for his size. Held his own vs. Alabama in 2023. Has the foot speed to reset when off balance.

Weaknesses: Just one year of starting experience despite being a sixth-year senior. Light frame (6’4″, 301 pounds) and below-average arm length (32″) might force a move inside. All over the place technically — Chattanooga’s offense didn’t have many true pass sets.

Overall: Griffin McDowell is a project in every sense, yet what he showed in his lone season as a starter is worthy of an extended tryout.

Projection: PFA

Isaiah Wooden Sr., WR | Southern Utah

Strengths: Quantifiably elite athlete: 4.35 40, 44 1/2″ vert, and 10’5″ broad. Definition of a deep threat with the ball tracking and body control to convert. Twitchy with start/stop ability with the ball in his hands for YAC potential.

Weaknesses: Extremely small at 5’7″ and 176 pounds — will need to operate from the slot in a motion-heavy scheme to give him an early leverage advantage. Won largely on speed and against lesser competition.

Overall: Isaiah Wooden’s deadly speed is enough to warrant a camp invite. Add in his leaping ability and prowess after the catch and he should receive attention early in the UDFA pool.

Projection: HPFA

Greg Anderson, OL | Monmouth

Strengths: Back-to-back all-conference pick at right guard with experience at right tackle. Gets good depth on pass sets. Impressive arm length at 34″. Serviceable as a puller, staying in control on the move.

Weaknesses: Raises pad level into contact as a run blocker. Doesn’t keep his head on a swivel in pass pro. Punches often land wide. Feet stall when engaged.

Overall: Although Greg Anderson has the physical tools OL coaches will love to mold, they’ll have to be patient as he’s rather raw as a technician.

Projection: UDFA

Jyran Mitchell, RB | Butler

Strengths: Plus pass catcher with a receiver background. Explosiveness is plain to see on tape and with 37″ vert and 10’7″ broad. Hits the hole and accelerates to his top speed quickly. Patient in the backfield, allowing blocks to set up. Good vision on zone runs, able to hit cutback lanes.

Weaknesses: Only one collegiate season at RB after spending four years (two at Northern Illinois and Eastern Kentucky) as a WR. Most of his production came on breakaway runs. Won’t be as much of a home-run threat in the NFL (4.57-second 40). Inexperienced as a pass blocker.

Overall: Zone-heavy offenses will love Jyran Mitchell’s skill set. He has a light tread on his tires but also needs development in the finer points of the position.

Projection: UDFA

Tyler Boatwright, DB | Central Connecticut State

Strengths: Low and balanced in his backpedal. Fluid hips to flip and burn downfield and laterally. Sticky in coverage with the explosives to match quicker WRs (4.45 40, 39 1/2″ vert).

Weaknesses: Slot-only size (5’10”, 182, 30″ arms) but spent most of his time on the outside. Can flip his hips too early in press instead of maintaining leverage. Inconsistent tackler due to form and size. Pre-snap stance (head over toes and tucked to knees) is inefficient.

Overall: While Tyler Boatwright hasn’t lined up in the position he’ll play in the NFL, he has the movement skills to make the transition.

Projection: UDFA

Jarveon Howard, RB | Alcorn State

Strengths: Strong between-the-tackles frame at 5’10”, 219. Utilized much more as a pass catcher in 2023 (29 receptions for 183 yards). Vision and contact balance to be effective in gap/power schemes.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent in pass pro despite size. Change of direction leaves some to be desired — more of a linear athlete. Won’t make defenders miss in the open field, although he can break arm tackles at speed.

Overall: Jarveon Howard is a throwback RB with the size, power, and speed to churn out yardage at the next level.

Projection: PFA

Richard McCollum, K | Western Carolina

Strengths: Made 148 of 151 extra points across five seasons. Perfect 9 for 9 on 40-plus yard attempts over the last three years (43 for 46 overall).

Weaknesses: Limited kickoff experience (89 attempts with only 11 touchbacks across six seasons). Zero attempts of 50-plus yards in his career.

Overall: Richard McCollum’s lack of leg strength isn’t a surprise at his size (5’9″, 175), but he’s accurate within his range.

Projection: UDFA

Ricardo Chavez, P/K | Idaho

Strengths: Made 28 of 32 FGs, including five 50-plus yards (made a 59-yarder in the state championship), and 91 of 92 PATs in two seasons at Riverside City College to begin his career. Went 34 of 44 on FGs and 89 of 89 on PATs in two years at Idaho while also serving as the team’s punter. Improved punt average from 39.9 to 45.9, booting 10 attempts for 50-plus yards on 59 attempts.

Weaknesses: Just four kickoff attempts since 2022. Can work to get more hangtime on his punts.

Overall: Ricardo Chavez clearly has the leg to last in the league, but he’ll need to focus on one position.

Projection: HPFA

Jett Stanley, DT | Sacramento State

Strengths: Received notable snaps at nose and 3-tech. Good size/athleticism combo as a 3-tech (6’4″, 289, 4.89 40, 4.68 shuttle). Solid stack-and-shed ability.

Weaknesses: Poor tackler despite good length (33″). Average get-off and lacks pop at the point of attack. Must incorporate counters — rush can stall out after initiating contact.

Overall: Jett Stanley’s pass-rush upside as an interior player is intriguing, but he has to be stronger at the point of attack in run defense.

Projection: UDFA

Robert Horsey, DT | Southern Utah

Strengths: Works to win the leverage battle. Quick off the ball with cinder blocks for hands. Powerful lower half to hold up in run defense. High motor with impressive stamina at his size.

Weaknesses: Spent four years at Division II Frostburg State before moving to the FCS for his final season. Won pass-rush reps by overpowering, not hand usage (though there are flashes on tape of swipes/swims).

Overall: Robert Horsey is a bullying run defender with some pass-rush potential. Nonetheless, his highest level of competition was the FCS, and he only played there for one year.

Projection: UDFA

Pat Godbolt, EDGE | South Carolina State

Strengths: Natural leverage at 6’1″ allows him to get under pads with the lower-body strength to push blockers back. Keeps gap integrity in run defense. Quick get-off. Works against his opponent’s leverage.

Weaknesses: Longer tackles give him issues when he can’t get into their chests. Bend around the arc isn’t first class. Can push too far upfield in run defense at times, leaving holes for the RB in his wake.

Overall: Pat Godbolt has three year’s worth of film highlighting his leverage acquisition and pass-rush prowess. He didn’t thrive against the few Power Five opponents he did play, but he more than held his own against Georgia Tech and UCF the last two years.

Projection: UDFA

Geno Hess, RB | Southeast Missouri State

Strengths: Thick lower half to power through arm tackles. Gets skinny through the hole. Coming off three straight 1,000-yard campaigns. Displayed receiving ability the last two years (37-334-2 receiving line). Quickly identifies running lanes and accelerates to daylight.

Weaknesses: Upright runner. Played mostly in a gap/power scheme, which is where he fits best. Heavy wear on his tires (875 careers in college). Doesn’t have the top gear to outrun DBs, even with a few steps of breathing room. False steps when rounding upfield.

Overall: Geno Hess has the production to get a second look, but his athleticism will make his transition to the NFL difficult.

Projection: UDFA

John Huggins, S | Jackson State

Strengths: Physical in all phases. One of the best athletes at the position (4.45 40, 38 1/2″ vert, 11’1″ broad). NFL bloodline (father is Deion Sanders). Speed to track down ball carriers.

Weaknesses: Only one season as a full-time starter (2021). Uncontrolled tackler, resulting in multiple whiffs. Largely used in the box or slot, few snaps as a deep safety in his career. Far better in zone with his eyes on the QB than man coverage.

Overall: John Huggins has all the tools to make it in the NFL, but he’ll need to rein in aggressiveness and land in a scheme that will utilize his strengths and minimize his weaknesses.

Projection: HPFA

Donny Ventrelli, G | North Dakota

Strengths: Extensive experience at RT, LT, and LG. Has TE background and was a multi-sport athlete in high school. Plays through the whistle and constantly scans for work. Keeps his pads low and churns his legs through contact to generate push.

Weaknesses: Worst game last season came against an FBS opponent on the schedule (Nebraska). Will occasionally dip his head as a run blocker, losing sight of his opponent and allowing them to slip past his hands.

Overall: While not a refined prospect, Donny Ventrelli has the movement ability and temperament to catch several teams’ eyes.

Projection: PFA

Tavion McCarthy, CB | Mercer

Strengths: Routinly got his hands on passes (six INTs, 25 PBUs in last three seasons). Well-built for the slot at 5’8″ and 200 pounds. Always in the area of his WRs, conceding very few yards after the catch.

Weaknesses: Spent four seasons at Division II Northern Michigan before playing one season in the FCS. Has only played as an outside corner despite owning slot-only size. Can be beaten by speed demons downfield if he doesn’t get his hands on them.

Overall: Tavion McCarthy went viral this offseason for his jaw-dropping 44″ vertical, but he’s more than just a workout warrior.

Projection: HPFA

Marquez McCray, QB | Monmouth

Strengths: Durable frame if a bit short (6’1″, 226 pounds). Most of his production came between the numbers at all three levels. Not afraid to stand and deliver versus pressure. Good arm strength with even more to unlock with better weight transfer.

Weaknesses: Pure pocket passer with limited mobility in the pocket and on the hoof. Pressures often turned to sacks due to lack of mobility and awareness. Doesn’t always bring his back hip through the throw, forcing him to make up by opening his off shoulder and ripping through, which can cause accuracy inconsistencies.

Overall: Marquez McCray is a safe QB (sometimes to a fault) with solid power in his arm and even more to be unlocked.

Projection: UDFA

Ja’Den McKenzie, RB | Rhode Island

Strengths: Built to pick up short yardage at 6’3″ and 230 pounds. Has good speed when he gets upfield. In four seasons never had less than 130 carries, averaged 5.2 yards per carry and 77 per game, and scored 43 times in 45 contests.

Weaknesses: Not a receiving weapon (17 receptions in career). Average acceleration through the hole and bouncing outside — will gain what the OL gives him and not much more. Breaks tackles more than makes defenders miss.

Overall: Gap/power-scheme-heavy teams will favor Ja’Den McKenzie’s size and vision in the backfield, but his athleticism will make life far more difficult against NFL athletes.

Projection: UDFA

Tairiq Stewart, OT | North Carolina A&T

Strengths: Good grip strength and lower-body torque to turn defenders in the run game. Possesses a finisher’s mentality with the raw power to back it up. Has the foot speed and footwork to mirror EDGEs.

Weaknesses: Only played right tackle in college but may need to move to guard due to 32″ arms. Penalized multiple times for holds over the last two years. Must improve hand usage (usually land wide) and punch timings. Bull rushers can get into his chest, and his lighter frame (305) struggles to anchor.

Overall: Tairiq Stewart will need time to develop his impressive tools, but a move inside could accelerate the process.

Projection: HPFA

Robert Javier, CB | Towson

Strengths: Dominated his competition, racking up six interceptions and 20 PBUs since 2022. Smooth in his backpedal and maintains leverage — doesn’t allow WRs to stack him consistently. Showcased his ability to play up to competition against Maryland in Week 1 last season.

Weaknesses: Just two years of starting experience. Poor tackler — comes in too aggressive and doesn’t break down. NFL long speed and size may give him issues on the outside early on.

Overall: A sturdy 6’0″ and 193 pounds with 32″ arms, Robert Javier has the size, athleticism, and film to bank on.

Projection: Round 7-HPFA

Lance Wise Jr., S | Mercer

Strengths: Four-year starter with a filled stat sheet (290 tackles, 12 TFLs, 11 INTs, 15 PBUs, and three forced fumbles). Has played all over the defense (400-plus snaps at deep safety, in the box, and in the slot). Willing and able run defender from all alignments, wrapping up consistently.

Weaknesses: Undersized at 5’7″, 193 pounds. Can take questionable angles to ball carriers and doesn’t have the speed to recover. Tight ends can manhandle him in the run game if he doesn’t slip their arms.

Overall: Lance Wise plays bigger than his size, but it is still a severe limitation. He is best deployed in the slot and/or as a two-high safety, but must be protected in the run game.

Projection: Round 7-HPFA

Alex Gubner, DT | Montana

Strengths: Four-year starter who began his career as an EDGE. Powerful with a solid get-off to quickly generate push up front. Has enough bend and lateral quickness to capitalize on twists/stunts.

Weaknesses: Can work too far upfield in run defense, leaving holes in his wake. Length (32″) can be an issue if punches don’t land. Double teams and combo blocks move him off his spot, ruining gap integrity.

Overall: Alex Gubner primarily played at nose, but at 6’2″ and 294 pounds, he’ll likely move to 3-tech — which suits his skill set anyway.

Projection: PFA

Zach Mathis, WR/TE | North Dakota State

Strengths: Contested-catch connoisseur at nearly 6’7″ with a massive catch radius. Uses size to box out DBs and create separation at the top of routes. Willing and serviceable run blocker. Reliable hands and extends beyond his frame for passes.

Weaknesses: Six-year player with only two seasons of notable production. Not a YAC threat with little wiggle for a WR. Limited route tree, with most of his production coming 10-plus yards downfield. Rounds routes and needs extra steps to get out of breaks.

Overall: Zach Mathis played at 6’6″ and 200 pounds but bulked up to 220 this offseason. His average explosiveness and poor agility and speed metrics point to a move to TE in the NFL.

Projection: HPFA

Solomon Zubairu, EDGE | Mercer

Strengths: Fresh off a 17.5-TFL, nine-sack campaign. Outleverages OTs by default at 5’11”. Uses his hands to keep his frame clean and bounce through gaps. Gassed-up engine to create second-effort wins.

Weaknesses: Short frame shows up in run defense, with larger OTs able to move him off the snap if he doesn’t get into their frame first. Flies upfield, falling for ball fakes. Average-at-best athlete overall.

Overall: While Solomon Zubairu isn’t elite in any physical facet, he’s solid all around. And his hand usage is already outstanding.

Projection: UDFA

Isaiah Major, LB | Florida A&M

Strengths: Hit the ground running at Florida A&M after three seasons at Independence Community College, earning back-to-back first-team All-SWAC honors. Physical between the tackles with plus blitzing ability. Keeps eyes on QBs when spot-dropping in coverage.

Weaknesses: Quicker pass catchers can run away from him over the middle. Smaller frame (5’11”, 233, 30″ arms) shows up as a tackler, with bigger pass catchers and shiftier ball carriers breaking tackles and making him miss. Not fluid/fast enough to turn and run with TEs/RBs in man coverage.

Overall: Isaiah Major is a head hunter from the second level, but his coverage prowess will make teams wary.

Projection: UDFA

Jordan Toles, S | Morgan State

Strengths: Linebacker mentality against the run, triggering downhill and scraping to the ball. Good closing burst in off coverage. Natural in space with loose and fluid hips.

Weaknesses: Has to come to balance as a tackler, high miss rate in the last two years. Limited reps in the box and slot, spending most of his time as a free safety. Too confident in superior athleticism and gets lazy with fundamentals in coverage (backpedal, zone integrity).

Overall: Jordan Toles has a four-star recruit pedigree and played at LSU for two years. He relied heavily on his tools at Morgan State, but he’ll need to button up his game in the NFL.

Projection: UDFA

Winston Reid, LB | Weber State

Strengths: Quickly diagnoses plays. Plays through the hands at the catch point. Excellent trigger downhill. High-energy player but squares up into tackles. Effective blitzer, able to finish at the QB. Short-area quickness to avoid incoming blockers.

Weaknesses: Shorter build limits ability to make a play on the ball against taller pass catchers and complete the tackle. Coverage instincts can vary from down to down.

Overall: Sporting fun-to-watch film in his last two years as a starter at Weber State, Winston Reid deserves a shot early in the process.

Projection: HPFA

Nolan Grooms, QB | Yale

Strengths: Can pick up yards on designed runs and as a scrambler. Shoulders/hips in sync when going through progressions in the pocket. Can vary ball velocity, throwing a very catchable ball.

Weaknesses: Holds on to the ball too long. Light frame at 6’1″, 200 pounds. Has to tighten up decision-making — good for a turnover-worthy play per game. Left-handed thrower with accuracy issues hitting targets in the intermediate to deep portions of the right side of the field. Drops his eyes when he senses pressure.

Overall: Nolan Grooms has some enticing tools, but they are just not enticing enough to cover up his faults.

Projection: UDFA

Nick Torres, OL | Villanova

Strengths: Tackle build on the interior (6’6″, 305, 35″ arms). Can lock out smaller pass rushers. Active hands in pass protection. Controlled reaching the second level.

Weaknesses: Hands land wide way too often. Not a people mover in the ground game. Raises pad level and dips head into contact as a run blocker. Feet die during engagements.

Overall: Nick Torres has tackle size but only survives on an island. Improving his footwork and hand usage would go a long way to his staying power at the next level.

Projection: UDFA

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