yeah ill read them still

Changes at the top of the board
Struggles for some, standout games for others others lead to movement
Originally Published: September 19, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

Yes, the college football season is still young, but some big-name players haven't quite lived up to expectations thus far, and the result is a shake-up in my latest ranking of the top 32 prospects for the 2013 NFL draft.

The biggest change is at the top, where Georgia OLB Jarvis Jones has swapped places with USC QB Matt Barkley, moving from No. 4 to No. 1 overall.

That's not to say I believe Jones will be the top overall pick when April rolls around, but at this point he's taking advantage of Barkley and other struggling prospects and boosting his stock.

Virginia Tech QB Logan Thomas is among those struggling, with his inconsistent footwork and accuracy raising questions about whether he's doing the little things to take his game to an elite level. As a result, Thomas has fallen 19 spots all the way to No. 30.

Elsewhere, a Big 12 quarterback has jumped ahead of Thomas, a top SEC cornerback moves into the top 10, and two defensive backs and a wideout make their season debuts in the top 32.

Remember to check back later in the week for a complete update to Scouts Inc.'s top 150. And as always, draft-eligible non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.



Jarvis Jones* OLB6-2242
Analysis: Jones' dominating performance against Missouri turned plenty of heads. He flashed an impressive combination of pass-rush skills, range and coverage ability. He has the versatility to line up all over the formation, and is a very good overall athlete. Previously: 4

Chance Warmack OG6-2⅜ 325
Analysis: Warmack is as good as any guard prospect I've ever evaluated, dating back to Steve Hutchinson coming out of Michigan in 2001. Warmack is agile, athletic and strong, and the rare guard worthy of a top-10 pick. The classic interior tough guy who is also a very smart player. Previously: 2

Barkevious Mingo* DE6-5240
Analysis: Mingo has a long frame, an elite first step as a pass-rusher and outstanding speed for his size. He also has great range and closing burst against the run. Previously: 3

Matt Barkley QB6-1⅞ 228
Analysis: Barkley has been victimized by leaky protection and drops by his receivers, but his decision-making also has not lived up to expectations. Still, he's smart, accurate and throws with good tempo, so he remains the clear-cut No. 1 quarterback on the board. Previously: 1

Johnathan Jenkins DT6-4⅛363
Analysis: A massive two-gap nose tackle with a good combination of size, strength and short-area quickness to control the inside and occasionally contribute as a pass-rusher. Previously: 5



Star Lotulelei DT6-3320
Analysis: A massive, stout run-stopper with a good anchor and powerful hands, Lotulelei also shows good short-area quickness and plays with a mean streak, though he still needs to develop his pass-rush skills. Previously: 6

Manti Te'o ILB6-1248
Analysis: Te'o has shown impressive leadership and focus this season. He is strong at the point of attack against the run and can deliver heavy blows on ball carriers, and shows good range and playmaking skills in underneath coverage. Previously: 8

Justin Hunter* WR6-4205
Analysis: Hunter is continuing to progress after a torn ACL ended his 2011 season early. He runs smooth routes, and his lean frame, body control and ball skills have earned some comparisons to Cincinnati Bengals receiver A.J. Green. Previously: 7

Dee Milliner* CB6-0¾197
Analysis: Milliner has solid top-end speed and plenty of range, and he shows a physical edge in run support. He has also displayed good short-area quickness, instincts and feel for routes. Previously: 12

Corey Lemonier* DE6-4242
Analysis: Lemonier has been all over the field early in the season. His first step is explosive and he shows impressive closing burst. He also holds up well against the run and plays with a relentless motor. Previously: 10

Johnathan Hankins* DT6-3335
Analysis: Hankins can occupy multiple blockers against the run and won't back down at the point of attack, and will make plays with effort as a pass-rusher. Previously: 9

Jonathan Cooper OG6-3320
Analysis: Cooper has good quickness and mobility, explosive power and good feet and balance. He has good awareness in pass protection and plays with an edge overall. Previously: 13

Sam Montgomery* DE6-4245
Analysis: Montgomery holds the point well against the run, and he is a powerful pass-rusher who plays well with good balance and leverage. He's also a tough prospect who plays with a chip on his shoulder. Previously: 15

Sylvester Williams DT6-2320
Analysis: Williams needs to be more consistent with his pad level, but he can be a space-eater when he stays low and flashes the ability to make plays down the line of scrimmage. Also shows effective pass-rush moves at times. Previously: 17

Marcus Lattimore* RB6-0232
Analysis: Lattimore has looked as good as could be expected coming off a torn ACL that ended his 2011 season, running hard and showing good instincts. He is light on his feet, changes direction quickly and consistently runs behind his pads. It will be interesting to monitor his progress as South Carolina heads into the teeth of the SEC schedule. Previously: 14

David Amerson* CB6-2193
Analysis: Amerson entered the season with a high first-round grade, but he fell after being beaten badly on several occasions in the opener in Tennessee. There are questions about his burst and overall speed, though Amerson is tough in run support. Previously: 16

Kawann Short DT6-3⅛325
Analysis: Short is playing with more consistency, effort and explosiveness in 2012, disrupting offenses from the interior and giving himself a chance to be in the first-round mix. Previously: 19

Brennan Williams OT6-6320
Analysis: Williams shows the ability to ride pass-rushers past the pocket and absorb power moves in pass protection. He also moves well as a run blocker and does a nice job of working to the second level, making him a good fit in a zone-blocking scheme. Previously: 21

Alec Ogletree* ILB6-3237
Analysis: He is raw in terms of instincts, but Ogletree is a natural playmaker with sideline-to-sideline range as a run defender. He also flashes big-time potential as a pass-rusher. Previously: 22

Kenny Vaccaro S6-0½210
Analysis: Vaccaro has rare movement skills, showing explosiveness and fluid hips, and he's instinctive in coverage. He knows how to read the quarterback's eyes, has plenty of confidence and plays with a physical edge in run support. Previously: 25

Robert Woods* WR6-1190
Analysis: Woods lacks elite size, but is willing to work the middle of the field, and is an effective and decisive runner after the catch. A sudden athlete who explodes off the line, can eat up a defender's cushion and tracks the ball well down the field. Previously: 20

Bennie Logan* DT6-3290
Analysis: Logan is tough to block one-on-one in the run game, has great range and manhandles ball carriers. He's also an impressive natural athlete with good upside as a pass-rusher. Previously: 26

William Gholston* DE6-6278
Analysis: Gholston's size-speed combination is impressive, and he has the power to stack the edge against the run. His effort is inconsistent at times, but he plays with an edge and has all kinds of potential as a pass-rusher. Previously: 28

Geno Smith QB6-2¾ 208
Analysis: Smith is turning some heads with his fast start, throwing nine touchdown passes against just nine incompletions through two games. He's confident, mobile, accurate and has solid footwork and mechanics. Previously: 30

Luke Joeckel* OT6-5¾306
Analysis: Joeckel is a technically sound run-blocker who takes good angles and would fit nicely in a zone-blocking scheme. He has quick feet, good balance and the ability to recover in pass protection. Previously: 24

Keenan Allen* WR6-3206
Analysis: Allen has a good combination of size and speed, and excellent hands and body control. He lacks the elite speed to run by defenders at the next level, but his size and strength allow him to win one-on-one battles down the field. Previously: 18

Matt Elam* S5-10207
Analysis: Elam did not get a full evaluation during offseason film study, but he's simply playing too well to be kept out of the rankings. He's solid in run support and coverage, and always seems to be around the ball, like he was in making 10 tackles last week against Tennessee. Previously: NR

Dallas Thomas OT6-5⅛297
Analysis: Thomas needs to improve his overall awareness, but he has good size, is strong playing in tight quarters and has the versatility to line up at tackle or guard. Previously: 28

Shawn Williams S6-0219
Analysis: Williams reads his keys and diagnoses plays quickly, and he understands leverage and angles in coverage. He also has the size and aggressiveness to be a force in run support. Previously: 29

Logan Thomas* QB6-5254
Analysis: Thomas has not played up to expectations this season. He has impressive physical tools, but his footwork and accuracy have been suspect early on, and he has not been consistent enough in most areas. Previously: 11

Johnthan Banks CB6-2⅛185
Analysis: Banks doesn't have elite fluidity or man-to-man coverage skills, but he's a very good all-around player. He's learned to protect himself in coverage, shows above-average instincts and ball skills, and is solid in run support. Previously: NR

Tavon Austin WR5-8⅜173
Analysis: Austin's lack of size might keep him out of the first round when all is said and done, but he's clearly one of the top 50 overall players in the class, thanks to his explosive playmaking ability. He's a receiving threat both after the catch and down the field, has potential in the return game and is also dangerous in space on running plays. He might be the closest thing to Percy Harvin in college today. Previously: NR

Out of the rankings: Washington State WR Marquess Wilson, Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson, Michigan State RB Le'Veon Bell

Big Board has a new No. 1
It's not Matt Barkley's struggles; it's the brilliance of Jarvis Jones

When people see the change in the rankings below, I think the immediate reaction will be that this is a signal about Matt Barkley. They'll say cracks are emerging following Barkley's rough night in Palo Alto, Calif. A fall from the top always brings that, but in reality, this move is still more about how exceptional Jarvis Jones has been, even coming off a weekend where he rested. The Georgia star can really do it all on defense. He's the most relentless pass-rusher in the country, a guy who closes fast and must be planned for. He now excels against the run, and will drop into coverage and use his instincts and athleticism there. You'll hear comparisons to guys such as Von Miller, and for now, it's all fair game. He's that kind of talent.

And to think, he and Barkley were once teammates at USC.

Below, the scouting perspective will remain similar week to week, but I'll note performance and matchup highlights. If there's a player you don't see here but want feedback on, I find some time to respond on Twitter. Hit me @MelKiperESPN. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.


1Jarvis Jones *AGE: 22DOB: 10/13/89HT: 6-3WT: 241POS: OLB
Tkl 17Sack 3.5Int 1
Didn't play Saturday as he rested a tweaked groin, but dominated Missouri the week before, showing off the full range. An explosive, relentless edge rusher, he profiles as a 3-4 OLB. He has a quick first step and violent hands, tackles well, and closes fast. Solid against the run, and can really cover.

LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD

2Matt BarkleyAGE: 22DOB: 9/8/90HT: 6-2WT: 224POS: QB
Comp 66Att 109Pct 60.5Yds 813TD 10Int 3
Had a rough week, but the protection was a disaster. Good chance to show he can bounce back. Barkley has limitations with physical skills, but he's sound across the board: ball placement, timing, use of his eyes, poise, leadership skills and has experience. Great leader.

LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD

3Barkevious Mingo *AGE: 21DOB: 10/4/90HT: 6-5WT: 242POS: DE
Tkl 8Sack 0Int 0
Still a lot of projection given how late he came to football, but talent jumps off the tape. Mingo uses length and a great first step to turn the corner. His pass-rush skills are pretty good but could be diversified. Still learning concepts, but reads the game well given his lack of experience.

LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD

4Sam Montgomery *AGE: 21DOB: 5/25/90HT: 6-4WT: 260POS: DE
Tkl 7Sack 1.0Int 0
Montgomery added some size and could be considered a fit in almost any system; his frame can handle it if he adds more. Athleticism and pass-rush skills are there, and he really holds up against the run. Max-effort player, natural athlete, instinctive rusher. Still a lot of projection left.

LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD

5Star LotuleleiAGE: 22DOB: 12/20/89HT: 6-4WT: 325POS: DT
Tkl 13Sack 1.0Int 0
Another great game in a win versus BYU. Brings consistent, relentless effort. Demands double-teams, and clogs up the middle of the field. A great sense for disrupting the run game, with power to bull rush. Quick off the ball, with great upper-body strength. Coaches rave.

LAST WEEK: 7 | PLAYER CARD


6Chance WarmackAGE: 21DOB: 9/14/91HT: 6-3WT: 320POS: OG
GP 3GS 3
Just destroyed the left side of the Arkansas D-line on Saturday. A powerful run-blocker, he isn't just massive; Warmack moves well, with initial power plus the ability to seek out LBs on the second level. Solid pass-blocker, and able to lock up rushers.

LAST WEEK: 6 | PLAYER CARD

7Justin Hunter *AGE: 21DOB: 5/20/91HT: 6-4WT: 205POS: WR
Rec 22Yds 295Avg 13.4TD 3
Tough day against a good Florida defense, but Hunter has been very good -- and stayed healthy. Stats haven't done him justice. Most of 2011 was wiped out by injury. Blazing speed, but uses good technique and gets in and out of breaks. Good hands, and a major threat down the field.

LAST WEEK: 5 | PLAYER CARD

8Manti Te'oAGE: 21DOB: 1/26/91HT: 6-2WT: 255POS: LB
Tkl 28Sack 0Int 1
Te'o showed his mental toughness in an inspiring performance against Michigan State. The top interior linebacker in 2013 draft class, his instincts are exceptional and he can attack the backfield. Te'o is a big, strong, prepared tackling presence in the middle of the field. Reads plays well and gets through traffic.

LAST WEEK: 10 | PLAYER CARD

9Johnathan Hankins *AGE: 21DOB: HT: 6-3WT: 335POS: DT
Tkl 14Sack 1.0Int 0
Explosive quickness for a big man, but not really a technical pass-rusher. Size allows him to drive blockers into the backfield, then he shows impressive agility. Hankins gets down the line well. Will draw constant double-teams all season, but has bouts of inconsistency.

LAST WEEK: 9 | PLAYER CARD

10Luke Joeckel *AGE: 21DOB: 11/6/91HT: 6-6WT: 310POS: OT
GP 2GS 2
Experienced, as he's started on the left since his freshman season. Joeckel is best in pass protection and doesn't get rattled by speed or secondary moves. Not an elite athlete, but he's a good technician. He faces great pass-rushers this season.

LAST WEEK: 11 | PLAYER CARD

11Corey Lemonier *AGE: 21DOB: 2/19/91HT: 6-4WT: 250POS: DE
Tkl 10Sack 3.0Int 0
Bright spot for Auburn in a tough season so far. Light for a defensive end prospect, Lemonier has the speed but must hold up better against the run. Utilizes quickness as a pass-rusher, with great burst off the snap and a few counters.

LAST WEEK: 8 | PLAYER CARD

12Kawann ShortAGE: 23DOB: 2/2/89HT: 6-3WT: 312POS: DT
Tkl 6Sack 3.0Int 0
At his best, uses power and athleticism and can beat any kind of blocking. Really disruptive at his best. A very good athlete who can control the line of scrimmage. Uses his hands well to clear blocks and is constantly in the backfield. A better fit in a 4-3.

LAST WEEK: 13 | PLAYER CARD

13John JenkinsAGE: 23DOB: 7/11/89HT: 6-3WT: 358POS: DT
Tkl 12Sack 0Int 0 Jenkins might be the player who best profiles as a true zero-tech, 3-4 nose tackle. But he moves pretty well, so he's not locked into that role. Guys such as these have serious value. If he dominates against SEC competition, watch out.
LAST WEEK: 14 | PLAYER CARD

14David Amerson *AGE: 20DOB: 12/8/91HT: 6-3WT: 189POS: CB
Tkl 4Sack 0Int 2
Exceptional cover skills, and size that could have him coveted as a safety as well. With a sixth sense for when to improvise, Amerson will drop routes to make plays. Has the size and speed to match up with any receiver, so he can go up for the ball but freelances effectively. Led the nation in INTs last season. Competitor.

LAST WEEK: 12 | PLAYER CARD

15Dee Milliner *AGE: 20DOB: 9/14/91HT: 6-1WT: 199POS: CB
Tkl 7Sack 0Int 1
Mistake-free season so far. Milliner is another player who is extremely physical and isn't shy in run support, but is fluid, reads the game well, and can turn and run with top wideouts. Assembly line in the Bama secondary.

LAST WEEK: 17 | PLAYER CARD

16Bjoern Werner *AGE: 21DOB: 9/30/90HT: 6-4WT: 255POS: DE
Tkl 11Sack 7.0Int 0
Time to show off against better competition. Still, Werner showed this talent last season. Strong but athletic, he has great ball awareness as he rushes, and knocks down balls at a high rate. Developing as a pass-rusher, high ceiling, late arrival to the sport.

LAST WEEK: 25 | PLAYER CARD

17Keenan Allen *AGE: 20DOB: 4/27/92HT: 6-3WT: 206POS: WR
Rec 20Yds 216Avg 10.8TD 1
OSU couldn't cover him. Allen could play defense if he wanted and has those instincts. Finds the gaps. Strong hands; catches the ball with ease away from his body. Sets up defenders, sees the field well, settles in against zones. Run-after-catch skills.

LAST WEEK: 16 | PLAYER CARD

18William Gholston *AGE: 21DOB: 7/31/91HT: 6-7WT: 280POS: DE
Tkl 12Sack 1.0Int 0
Great length and frame, with very good pass-rushing skills, and does a good job of attacking the ball in the air. Has legit size and skills to be a 4-3 DE at the next level. Experience shows; reads offenses well.

LAST WEEK: 19 | PLAYER CARD

19Eric Reid *AGE: 21DOB: 12/10/91HT: 6-2WT: 212POS: S
Tkl 13Sack 0Int 1
Great instincts, and a sound tackler from the secondary. A safety who can cover but also play close to the line. Tied for the team lead in tackles on a team that can really pursue the ball. Big hitter.

LAST WEEK: 18 | PLAYER CARD

20Sharrif Floyd *AGE: 21DOB: 5/28/92HT: 6-3WT: 303POS: DT
Tkl 4Sack 0Int 0
A star coming out of high school, Floyd is starting to realize his potential. He played some end, but his quickness is more menacing on the interior and he has a great burst, drawing double-teams and penetrating.

LAST WEEK: NR | PLAYER CARD

21Logan Thomas *AGE: 21DOB: 7/1/91HT: 6-6WT: 262POS: QB
Comp 50Att 92Pct 54.3Yds 707TD 5Int 3
Thomas has started slow with new targets, trying to do too much. Huge kid with elite arm strength, and still building his repertoire as a passer. But he's not raw. In fact, he has very good mechanics. Can drive the ball downfield, but displays nice touch.

LAST WEEK: 15 | PLAYER CARD

22Xavier Rhodes *AGE: 22DOB: 6/19/90HT: 6-2WT: 209POS: CB
Tkl 8Sack 0Int 1
Ready for a big test against the Clemson duo. A starter since his freshman season, Rhodes has elite size, handles deep routes well and can hang with smaller WRs. Can move up the board.

LAST WEEK: 20 | PLAYER CARD

23Marcus Lattimore *AGE: 20DOB: 10/29/91HT: 6-0WT: 232POS: RB
Rush 48Yds 235Avg 4.9TD 4
Still lacks some explosiveness post-injury. Just needs to regain confidence, but burst was a question. Powerful, tightly packed player who packs a punch but moves better than a player his size should. Elite if healthy.

LAST WEEK: 22 | PLAYER CARD

24Jonathan CooperAGE: 22DOB: 1/9/90HT: 6-3WT: 302POS: G
GP 3GS 3
Wanted to see how he came back from offseason shoulder surgery, but a great start so far. Not an earth-mover, but powerful and quick for his size. Moves extremely well, and can beat defenders to spots, move them to a side and get downfield.

LAST WEEK: NR | PLAYER CARD

25Robert Woods *AGE: 20DOB: 4/10/92HT: 6-1WT: 185POS: WR
Rec 20Yds 173Avg 8.7TD 4
Hasn't stretched defenses yet in 2012, but Woods is quick, crafty and dependable, and you can't discount his speed, as he'll beat teams over the top. Soft hands and will pick up yards after the catch. Uses space along sidelines and in the corners well.

LAST WEEK: 21 | PLAYER CARD

Top 5: Seniors by position
Ranking top five senior NFL prospects, by position, for the 2013 draft
Originally Published: September 19, 2012
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider


While my Big Board offers a look at the top 25 overall prospects, these rankings allow you to get a better sense of depth at each position. Below are the top five seniors at each position as we get the 2012 season going, and I've also ranked the top five juniors (or draft-eligible sophomores) at each position. The senior class is obviously a bit lighter in overall talent after the departure of so many juniors to the NFL, but it's still loaded with high draft picks.

For prospects together, here is the latest 2013 NFL draft Big Board.


QUARTERBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTCMPATTYDSTDINTSKD
Matt Barkley6-22203084463,5283978
Geno Smith6-32143465264,38531726
Tyler Wilson6-32202774383,63824626
Mike Glennon6-62252834533,054311231
Landry Jones6-42293555624,463291510
Analysis: Matt Barkley can really feel the micrscope now, and I think Geno Smith and others will close some ground before it's all said and done. What people should remember is Barkley has always bounced back. The growth of Smith is fun to watch. Hopefully Wilson can rally the team and his stock.

RUNNING BACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTATTYDSAVGTDRECYDS
Montee Ball5-112103071,9236.33324306
Stepfan Taylor5-112152421,3305.51025182
Andre Ellington5-91902231,1785.31122109
Ray Graham5-91951649585.8930200
Johnathan Franklin5-111951669765.95974
Analysis: Ball and Taylor are basically neck and neck. The Wisconsin O-line hasn't been as good in 2012, and Ball is finding it tougher to perform. I love Graham's shiftiness; he looks fantastic given his injury last season. Ellington went crazy against Auburn -- he's a name to watch. Franklin is piling it up, but hopefully he stays healthy.

FULLBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTATTYDSAVGTDRECYDS
Zach Line6-12302081,2245.91715139
Zach Boren6-1252000.00660
Braden Wilson6-12455153.00214
Taimi Tutogi6-125025732.941197
Willie Carter6-222113624.8261868
Analysis: Line is that rare fullback who gets a lot of carries. That he can average 5+ yards a pop is impressive at that size. Boren (pictured) was among my top fullbacks among juniors last year and will end up on an NFL roster. Braden Wilson is a good one and plays such a pivotal role in the Kansas State scheme, often blocking for his own quarterback.

WIDE RECEIVERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTRECYDSAVGLONGTDFUM
Terrance Williams6-31905995716.277110
Tavon Austin5-91761011,18611.77280
Aaron Dobson6-32004966813.677120
Cobi Hamilton6-32093454215.96040
Denard Robinson6-0197000.0000
Analysis: Williams could push his way into the first-round picture. Hamilton remains to pick up the slack left by a trio of very good receivers after 2011. Yes, that's Michigan QB Denard Robinson on this list. He can't stick in the NFL as a QB, but his speed and open-field ability translates.

TIGHT ENDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTRECYDSAVGLONGTDFUM
Joseph Fauria6-72523948112.33260
Chris Gragg6-32364151812.64120
Philip Lutzenkirchen6-4264242389.93270
Michael Williams6-62691619111.73720
Jake Stoneburner6-52451419313.83670
Analysis: Joseph Fauria is already off to a good start for UCLA and, at 6-foot-7, he presents a perpetual matchup problem as the team tries to surprise in Pac-12 play. He makes his targets count, particularly in the red zone. It'll be interesting to see how Stoneburner is evaluated by NFL teams. He creates better matchups when he's on the line and not split out.

OFFENSIVE TACKLES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Ricky Wagner6-6320
Eric Fisher6-8305
Oday Aboushi6-6310
John Wetzel6-8302
Brennan Williams6-7315
Analysis: Ricky Wagner doesn't have a first-round grade right now on my board, and could improve his stock as a run-blocker. He's a very good pass-blocker but he can play a little high in the run game; he can improve his punch. Aboushi has a chance to move into the first-round picture with a good year. Williams is another big-time physical talent who could fly up boards with consistency.

OFFENSIVE GUARDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Chance Warmack6-3320
Jonathan Cooper6-3310
Dallas Thomas6-5305
Larry Warford6-3336
Graham Pocic6-7310
Analysis: Warmack could be the David DeCastro of the 2013 draft, a guard who gets a legit look toward the top 10. He is a monster in the run game and rarely has a letdown. Cooper has a ton of experience, having started since his redshirt freshman season; he's explosive in tight spaces and can really move.

CENTERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Khaled Holmes6-4310
Barrett Jones6-5311
T.J. Johnson6-6319
Braxston Cave6-3304
Matt Stankiewitch6-3301
Analysis: Barrett Jones is a proven commodity and could be the first center taken in the 2013 NFL draft with another strong campaign. Holmes becomes the top offensive lineman for the Trojans, and all you have to do to prove his value is roll the tape when he was absent against Stanford. USC's protection completely fell apart.

DEFENSIVE ENDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Michael Buchanan6-6240
Alex Okafor6-4260
Margus Hunt6-8280
John Simon6-2270
Walter Stewart6-5249
Analysis: Time to keep an eye on another Illinois DE. Last year Whitney Mercilus flew up boards, this year it could be Buchanan. Okafor looks good so far in 2012, pairing with Jackson Jeffcoat. John Simon (pictured) lacks a true position but sets the tone for the Ohio State defense, starting with his motor. Nobody outworks him. Hunt is really a wild card, and will need the production to match the hype regarding his athletic prowess.

DEFENSIVE TACKLES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Star Lotulelei6-3325
Kawann Short6-3310
Jonathan Jenkins6-3351
Jesse Williams6-4319
Sylvester Williams6-3320
Analysis: This year, the top three DTs off the draft board could be seniors. Lotulelei projects as one of the top picks in the draft, though he'll be challenged to be the top DT off the draft board. He gets a great initial burst and demands double-teams or he'll destroy the pocket. Short is really strong and athletic; he has some big matchups this year where he can show off his growth. Jenkins could have a breakout year.

INSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTManti Te'o6-2255Arthur Brown6-1223Kevin Reddick6-3240Shayne Skov6-3243Nico Johnson6-3245Analysis: Te'o is playing exceptionally well this year. He reads the game well, takes great angles and makes tackles all over the field. Had he been in the 2012 draft, I'm pretty confident he would have been taken in the first round. Most people haven't seen much of Arthur Brown, but he'll remind you a little of Lavonte David, as he plays light but flies all over and hits holes well. A tackling machine.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Khaseem Greene6-1220
Jamie Collins6-3239
Michael Mauti6-2232
Chase Thomas6-4239
Gerald Hodges6-2234
Analysis: Roll the tape on Khaseem Greene and you see a guy who appears to be playing the game a little faster than everybody else. He goes sideline to sideline, avoids traffic well, and uses his speed to get into the backfield and make plays. Collins also really creates havoc in the backfield.

CORNERBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Johnthan Banks6-2185
Terry Hawthorne6-0190
Jordan Poyer5-11190
Leon McFadden5-10190
Sanders Commings6-2216
Analysis: Johnthan Banks (pictured), I thought, could have been in the first-round picture in 2012 and should solidify that status this year. He'll be right there, perhaps only surpassed by Xavier Rhodes and David Amerson. We'll see. He has excellent cover skills, great length and simply needs to become more physical. Commings is one to watch. Length is becomiong more and more valued at corner.

SAFETIES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Kenny Vaccaro6-1218
Shawn Williams6-1220
T.J. McDonald6-3205
Bradley McDougald6-1209
Bacarri Rambo6-1218
Analysis: Kenny Vaccaro is a strong safety, and can play in the box and make tackles like a linebacker. T.J. McDonald plays a good center field for USC, loves to step up and make hits in the seams and on crossing routes. Georgia obviously isn't lacking talent.

KICKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Dustin Hopkins6-2190
Caleb Sturgis5-11183
Zach Brown6-1180
Brett Baer6-0187
Steven Schott6-0171
Analysis: Dustin Hopkins has improved his accuracy each year and went 22-of-27 last year with a long of 53 yards. He's had few kicks so far this year, unless you count extra points. But he hasn't missed.

PUNTERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Jeff Locke6-1214
Quinn Sharp6-1189
Ryan Epperson6-2195
Brett Maher6-0185
Ryan Allen6-2215
Analysis: Jeff Locke could be the top punter in the 2013 draft. Bryan Anger, his top competition in the Pac-12 last season, went in the third round in the 2012 draft.

Top 5: Juniors by position
Ranking top junior or draft-eligible sophomore NFL prospects, by position
Originally Published: September 19, 2012
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider


As anyone who follows the NFL draft knows, many of the top prospects in the draft come from the junior class. The first round will be dominated by underclassmen every year. The majority of players on my latest Big Board come from this group.

This should offer a good reflection of the depth at each position group, as there are players on here who could go in Round 1 and aren't even on my Big Board. Please note: Below I'm still keeping the 2011 stats for one more week, as totals for this year don't show much.


QUARTERBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTCMPATTYDSTDINTSKD
Logan Thomas6-62542343913,013191017
Tyler Bray6-62101472471,98317611
Casey Pachall6-52162283432,92125713
Zach Mettenberger6-522281192100
Aaron Murray6-12112384033,149351432
Analysis: Logan Thomas (pictured) has been shaky out of the gate, but people need to be patient, and I'm still a believer in his overall skill-set. I'll give him some time. Tyler Bray can deliver strikes all over the field and continues to show a great deep ball. Not a lot of people have seen Casey Pachall, but he's good. Murray is coming on this year.

RUNNING BACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTATTYDSAVGTDRECYDS
Marcus Lattimore6-12321638185.01019182
Le'Veon Bell6-22371829485.21335267
Joseph Randle6-11912081,2165.82443266
Knile Davis6-1226000.0000
Eddie Lacy6-1220956747.1711131
Analysis: Marcus Lattimore (pictured) has been tentative early, by his standards, and I think he's still getting comfortable after being injured last season. Bell needs his offensive line to create some lanes. Eddie Lacy runs with a committee, but could have some big games behind the great Bama O-line.

FULLBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTATTYDSAVGTDRECYDS
Trey Millard6-2249241697.0213127
Jay Prosch6-1260294.5000
Ryan Hewitt6-423810353.5034282
Mike Marrow6-2250000.0000
J.C. Copeland6-1280200.0000
Analysis: Trey Millard (pictured) is a classic big, bruising blocker who can pave the way. The good news is he's averaging a whopping 9.0 yards per carry! The bad? He only has four carries. Give Trey the rock!

WIDE RECEIVERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTRECYDSAVGLONGTDFUM
Justin Hunter6-42001731418.58120
Keenan Allen6-3205981,34313.79060
Robert Woods6-11801111,29211.682150
Cordarrelle Patterson 6-3205000000
Marquess Wilson6-4183821,38816.985120
Analysis: Justin Hunter has already made it longer than he did last year. For him, this year is all about staying healthy. The Patterson bandwagon is filling up, and you can't deny what the tape shows. He's legit. Robert Woods (pictured) is a complete threat at WR -- able to create space underneath and reach a second gear and beat defenders deep. Wilson got off to a slow start, but will get his numbers under Mike Leach.

TIGHT ENDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWTRECYDSAVGLONGTDFUM
Tyler Eifert6-62496380312.73850
Levine Toilolo6-82632534313.74160
Zach Ertz6-62492734612.82640
Dion Sims6-527612998.32130
Jordan Reed6-32432830711.03010
Analysis: Tyler Eifert (pictured) hasn't put up big totals yet, but he needs his young QB to mature a little bit. He plays the game like a big wideout and should often be split out wide to maximize matchups. He has very good hands. Levine Toilolo is ready to become a star. At 6-foot-8, he's an impossible matchup in the red zone and is a pretty good athlete, and the Cardinal love to use their tight ends.

OFFENSIVE TACKLES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Luke Joeckel6-6310
Jake Matthews6-5305
Taylor Lewan6-8294
D.J. Fluker6-6335
James Hurst6-7290
Analysis: Nobody will get to lock down a high draft grade like Joeckel and Matthews this year. Facing SEC pass-rushers will be a challenge, but will show off skills. Lewan (pictured) has great length and the athleticism you look for as a blindside protector. Fluker might only be the third-best prospect on the Bama O-line, and he's still a possible first-rounder.

OFFENSIVE GUARDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Gabe Jackson6-4320
Alvin Bailey6-5319
Cyril Richardson6-5335
Trey Hopkins6-4301
Marcus Hall6-5317
Analysis:A bit of a no-name group, really solid young guards who most college football fans haven't noticed to this point. Gabe Jackson is a classic mauler up front who dominates one-on-one and is devastating on the second level. The senior class is actually the more famous group of guards, if it could be called that.

CENTERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Travis Frederick6-4330
Weston Richburg6-4302
Travis Swanson6-5305
Gabe Ikard6-3288
Andrew Miller6-4290
Analysis: Travis Swanson (pictured) is the cornerstone of an Arkansas offensive line that has struggled some this year, but they also lost their top QB. Travis Frederick follows Jameson Konz as a rising interior lineman for the Badgers. Never a shortage in Madison, though they've really struggled to play well as a unit so far.

DEFENSIVE ENDS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Barkevious Mingo6-5242
Sam Montgomery6-4260
Corey Lemonier6-4234
Bjoern Werner6-4265
William Gholston6-7280
Analysis: No problems creating a pass rush in Baton Rouge, with Barkevious Mingo (pictured) and Sam Montgomery creating all kinds of havoc for opposing passers on the edges. Both have a great burst. Lemonier is showing that his great start was no fluke. He's moved up on my board. William Gholston is more of a true 4-3 defensive end and is in line for a big year, but also will get a lot of blocking attention.

DEFENSIVE TACKLES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Johnathan Hankins6-3335
Sharrif Floyd6-3295
Bennie Logan6-3287
Sheldon Richardson6-4295
Kwame Geathers6-6350
Analysis: Johnathan Hankins (pictured) has the size to develop into a true nose tackle but has a great burst and could become a really versatile lineman. Floyd moved back inside and looks a lot more comfortable. Logan is an emerging talent for LSU and jumps into the spotlight on the interior with the departure of first-round pick Michael Brockers. Richardson's stock is on the rise.

INSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Jonathan Brown6-1235
C.J. Mosley6-2234
Alec Ogletree6-3236
Chris Borland5-11245
Max Bullough6-3245
Analysis: Brown is everywhere for the Illini and is a fun player to watch. Mosley is a proven talent and now becomes the man at linebacker; he can cover too. Chris Borland (pictured) doesn't wow you, but you go back to the tape and he's in on every play and consistently makes great reads. Keep an eye on Max Bullough, who has become a reliable tackling machine.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Jarvis Jones6-3241
Damontre Moore6-4250
Kyle Van Noy6-3235
Trent Murphy6-6246
Christian Jones6-4240
Analysis: Jarvis Jones (pictured) has a chance to be a No. 1 pick overall, depending on how the needs line up. He profiles as a dynamic pass-rusher in a 3-4. Pretty much every tackle will need help this season if teams plan to slow him down. Moore simply wrecks plays with his penetration. Van Noy looked very active and instinctive. A nice prospect.

CORNERBACKS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
David Amerson6-3185
Dee Milliner6-1199
Xavier Rhodes6-2215
Carrington Byndom6-0175
Justin Gilbert6-0194
Analysis: David Amerson is the rare corner with strong cover skills with the instincts of a ball hawk. He gets the headlines, but Milliner and Rhodes could push him. Milliner is big and instinctive and isn't afraid of contact. Rhodes has a strong reputation and has a lot of experience as a junior. Teams generally don't challenge him unless they have to. Gilbert jumped off a very good sophomore season.

SAFETIES
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Eric Reid6-2208
Matt Elam5-10206
Tony Jefferson5-10199
Hakeem Smith6-1183
Brian Blechen6-2230
Analysis: This class has shifted a little, with Reid and Elam jumping ahead of of Jefferson (pictured). Reid is quietly the best player in the LSU secondary and tied for the team lead in tackles last season, showing how active he is. Elam is a steady player for the Gators and has shown a great ability to cover.

KICKERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Chris Boswell6-2200
Andrew Furney5-10218
Zach Hocker6-1180
Mike Meyer6-2185
Chandler Catanzaro6-2200
Analysis: Boswell drilled 81 percent of kicks last year and is ahead of that pace in 2012. Furney has jumped with improved leg strength -- he nailed a 60-yarder already this season. Hocker (pictured) has a strong leg and nailed 21 of 27 field goals last year.

PUNTERS
RANKNAMESCHOOLHTWT
Steven Clark6-5232
Cody Webster6-1210
Matt Yoklic6-4205
Richie Leone6-3201
Tom Hornsey6-3195
Analysis: I spent a bunch of time last week going over punters and kickers and this group has been shuffled. Clark is now the guy in the lead, and is particularly good with major hang time.

thanks crash

kenny vacarro

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