DRAFT TRACKER 2021

Tall target with long arms and proportional frame who could struggle on the next level due to inconsistencies in his game. He's a lackluster route runner who lacks the burst or top-end speed to create separation. He's a smooth pass catcher with sudden hands who can win 50/50 throws with his length, but doesn't do nearly enough with his frame to keep smaller cornerbacks from making aggressive challenges for the catch. Jackson's lack of explosiveness means he must make route running and physicality much higher priorities since contested catches will follow him.

Jump-ball specialist with the tracking and ball skills to bring in the catch in one-on-one battles in space. Nunn has good size and acceleration, which he uses effectively when working down the field. He has outstanding instincts when it comes to altering tempo to help keep his body between the defender and the football. However, as a route runner, he misses the mark. He doesn't work with much leverage or attention to detail, which allows cornerbacks to read him and jump on top of his breaks. That said, Nunn has enough interesting tape to get a look as a priority free agent.

Lynn checks in somewhere between an in-line tight end and a move tight end. He's high cut with tremendously long arms which makes him look gangly, but he actually has better size than it appears. He has a basketball background, but needs to prove that he can play with plus quickness and agility on a regular basis as a pass catcher. He has physical traits to become a more effective point-of-attack blocker, but needs to play with better effort and grit to do it. Move-blocking duties are more his thing, with an ability to make smooth adjustments to moving targets. He won't be a prolific pass catcher, but he has a chance to handle what is asked of him as both a blocker and pass catcher if given more time to develop.

Smaller running back with run/catch versatility who racked up 29 rushing touchdowns and 12 receiving scores in three years at Coastal Carolina. Marable was hindered somewhat by his team's option attack, which may not have been ideal for his style of play. He plays with good vision and lateral wiggle, but he's not a strong inside runner and lacks the big, breakaway burst to rip past the second level on dive plays. He has the tools that fit a zone-scheme rushing attack and his ability to hit chunk pass plays out of the backfield could give his draft profile more life.

Defensive lineman lacking optimal traits to find a true home in most defensive alignments. He's built like a muscular, undersized three-technique with gap-shooting prowess, but he's actually better when taking on single blocks with his strength and sturdy base. He's not big enough to withstand pressure from NFL size and lacks the necessary length to play as a base end. Kemp hasn't been all that productive at Michigan but he's a plus athlete with a good motor. Finding a fit for him, however, could be a very difficult task based on his measurables.

Defensive end who might have to move inside if he's not more careful about managing his weight. Spencer was listed at 300 pounds in 2020 and it clearly had an impact on his overall effectiveness. He's a flash player with natural strength to strike and play around blocks, but too often he ends up on the ground or blocked. He has first-step explosiveness and good edge bend, but he's going to need to keep his motor cranked up enough from snap to snap and as a secondary pass rusher. He has draftable talent but lacks the grit to play inside, so he might need to get in better shape to stay at his natural position.

Outside receiver with size who doesn't always use it as effectively as he will need to in the future. Hardy is not very fast from an NFL perspective, but has shown improvement as a route-runner. He understands how to leverage routes and uses crisp feet to open windows for his quarterback. When coverage is tighter, he doesn't use his frame effectively enough to keep the coverage from impacting the catch. While there is size and skill that work in his favor, he might not be threatening enough on any of the three levels to make it in the league.

Smaller interior defender with adequate strength and athleticism but a concerning lack of outstanding traits. He plays with decent first-step quickness and has the leverage to post up lesser guards but will struggle in the pros to hold up against the size and strength he will face. He's not a naturally disruptive three-technique and doesn't make enough plays. His pass rush is very average, so he'll need to find his niche as a worker-bee run defender if he hopes to find time as a rotational defender.

Punter with outstanding size and good leg strength. Chrisman stood out in all three of Ohio State's playoff games dating back to the 2019 season, striking the ball with good consistency. However, he will need to prove he can kick with better hang-time in order to make an NFL team.

Linebacker living in a safety's frame who needs to be put in a position to see fewer big bodies while also learning to slip them when possible. Sullivan has adequate pursuit range and enough toughness for the linebacker position, but he's not big enough or strong enough as a tackler in those areas if he's to make a living as a 4-3 Will linebacker. His athleticism and special teams potential work in his favor and there might be a defensive coordinator who sees potential in him as a sub-package defender. He's a likely undrafted free agent, but does have an outside shot to make a roster.

Big possession target with above-average catch talent but below-average speed. McClain tested very poorly in short-area quickness drills at his pro day, which is a red flag in terms of his ability to beat press and then uncover underneath. He's extremely confident against man coverage but looks lost when working against zone. He has above-average body control, poise and hand strength to make contested catches on all three levels. His 2019 season was a little more consistent than his 2020 performance, but McClain has pro size and ball skills to create competition in camp.

Shorter edge defender with huge hands and jarring upper-body power. Roberts' production is predicated upon his power, leverage and willful motor. Lower-body tightness creates inconsistencies through contact when he's not sitting down and ready to battle the block. He has heavy hands to thump run blockers but he's not a dynamic run defender by any measure. As a rusher, Roberts has shown the ability to cut a tight pathway into the pocket using leg drive to play through the edge of the tackle. He's missing a well-rounded game and desired traits, but his rush will give him an outside chance in camp.

Decorated defensive end with conference acclaim and good measurables on a high-cut frame. Johnson uses play strength to impose his will against lesser opponents but ran into roadblocks when he faced stiffer competition. He's explosive into first contact and maintains his play strength when working into the gaps, but lacks consistency to control the action with his hands at the point of attack. He has physical traits that could give him a shot as a sub-package interior rusher, but he's unlikely to get home if asked to play off the edge.

Scott doesn't have the speed to threaten the edge or hit the home run, and his burst gear is suspect, which will make him a tackle magnet on the next level. However, he possesses an impressive combination of vision, power and feel for blocking development as a short-yardage runner who's able to finish drives for touchdowns once he gets close. He needs a clear point of entry as an early down runner so he can get it moving downhill quickly. His short-yardage talent is appealing, but maybe not appealing enough to keep him on a roster.

Smaller, short-armed interior lineman who might require a camp shift to center due to his physical limitations. He's an above-average run blocker with very good feel for angles and landmarks when asked to block on the move. He has the potential to compete in power, gap and zone schemes based on his ability. His lack of size and length shows up more in pass protection than it does in the run game. He's likely to struggle in finding the range to protect his gaps in pass protection and his redirection for recovery blocks is just average. He's unlikely to be drafted but could be a competitive addition in camp.

Pocket quarterback with good mobility and adequate arm strength to make NFL throws. He never hit the 20-touchdown mark in college and had a disappointing per-attempt average of just 6.7 yards for his career. He can make full-field reads and get through his progressions when protected, but his eyes are undisciplined when he senses pressure. He's not very fluid or rhythmic as a passer and has trouble with aiming and babying certain throws. He has good pocket mobility and can extend the play, but brings trouble on himself by not staying on time. He probably won't be drafted, but he's worth a camp look to see if he can be developed on the practice squad.

A two-year starter and former five-star signee with Ohio State, Grimes has excellent size and physical traits, but plays with lower-body tightness that could limit his press release and route-running. His routes might not be able to generate much apprehension or indecision from NFL cornerbacks. Grimes needs to establish himself as a deep-ball threat, as his contested catch ability leaves much to be desired on all three levels. He had a productive season in a loaded offense, but he might not have the separation potential or dynamic athleticism to make it.

Experienced starter with wide frame and solid play strength, but a lack of desired athletic talent. Hoge has a good understanding of technique and plays with proper hand placement most of the time. He's balanced and patient into block fits, but has trouble sustaining against more talented foes. He lacks lateral quickness to consistently handle reach blocks and is just average as a drive blocker. Hoge's pass protection will be his biggest hurdle as athletic defenders with good hands will be able to threaten his edges too often. He has a chance at a backup role, but it may come as an undrafted free agent.

Outside receiver with the size to intimidate smaller corners once the ball is in the air, but they are sure to be right there with him. His ball-tracking and catch instincts make Mack a fun study, but projecting him into the pro game is a challenge. He's a build-up runner with below-average top-end speed and lacks even functional shiftiness underneath to separate. While contested catches will be a concern, the bigger issue could be simply getting off the ball cleanly against NFL press.

Came out of high school as one of the top athletes from the state of Ohio when signing with the Buckeyes. He started at receiver before switching to safety as a freshman and spent three seasons at Ohio State before transferring to reunite with his former defensive coordinator from the Buckeyes, Greg Schiano. He's big and plays physical enough to handle himself near the line of scrimmage. His average speed and burst to close shows up in coverage since he doesn't have much anticipation. While he's not going to stand out in any one area, his size and potential to bang on tight ends should get him into a camp to compete for a role as box safety.

Hargrove has the athletic ability to handle scramble situations with some success but he's going to need to improve his balance and core strength as NFL defenders will make quick work of his mistakes. He can work on the move and on double teams, but once he's tasked with matching power with power, he can be exposed. His pass protection is fairly solid with punch accuracy and active hands to gain feel for the rush right off the bat, but he needs to trust his feet to slide and cut-off the rush rather than reaching and lunging.

Has the experience and potentially the size to play for both even and odd fronts. Loudermilk is fairly well built, but could use a little more mass and overall anchor if he is expected to play inside in a 4-3. He plays with heavy hands and fires off the ball and into the neutral zone with good force to strike and stake his claim. While he can settle into solid positioning early in the rep, Loudermilk lacks the play traits and talent to finish as a playmaker. He'll get some movement as a rusher, but not enough to expect him to play on passing downs. He has Day 3 potential and his best fit might be as a backup 3-4 end.

Stout and muscular with a build that is better suited for safety than cornerback. Jacobs has played press man and zone but lacks the top-end speed and agility to handle man duties as a pro. He has decent eyes from zone and gets downhill quickly to strike and finish before things can get started. While there will be a temptation to try him at safety, his inconsistencies as an open-field tackler could complicate matters.

Garner's tackle production is born from his length, play recognition and ability to flow to the ball with pursuit speed. However, his tape was noticeably affected by the level of competition. He has trouble slipping and taking on blocks and his success rate was noticeably diminished against an uptick in competition. He has good lateral quickness does a nice job of locating run lanes and stepping into them. Garner is a run-and-chase linebacker with good play recognition, but the toughness needs to match the traits for him to make it.

Pass-catching tight end with a basketball background that could be more successfully capitalized upon at a little lighter weight. Wells is more of a positional, get-in-the-way blocker at this time and while he can certainly improve, that isn't where his value rests. One viewing of his high school basketball highlights on YouTube and it is easy to see where the ball skills and in-air athleticism come from. The short-area foot quickness is a little disappointing, which limits his route work and yards after catch underneath. Wells is an investment that could pay off down the road if a team can get the most out of his athletic potential and polish this potential gem.

Borland was just the second player in Ohio State history (J.T. Barrett) to be named team captain for three straight years, which is a nod to his work ethic and leadership qualities. He plays with good football IQ and has a feel for his game-to-game duties as an inside linebacker. However, the lack of speed and physical traits will push him down the draft board. He's strong at the point of attack with efficient movement between the tackles, but he doesn't have the desired tools to get to, and then make, the plays needed as a pro. If he can really shine as a core special teams player, he might have a shot at becoming a backup two-down linebacker.

The son of a former NFL wideout, Blake Proehl displays an instinctive feel for finding softs spots in space and catches with sudden but soft hands. He can leap and attack it in the air or drop low and scoop up the worm burners. However, the deep speed isn't threatening. He is unable to sink and separate quickly in and out of breaks. Without a vertical push or short-area suddenness, it is hard to project him outside or from the slot. He produced at a consistent level at East Carolina and will get a look in camp but could be a longshot to make a roster.

Three-technique with compact frame who lacks desired length but possesses twitchy play strength that can make him a factor against the run. Bronson has to work hard heads-up against bigger, stronger men but he has impressive shed strength once his hands are set and the blocker is stacked. He will struggle to handle down blocks and double teams, so he might need a scheme that allows more upfield action over read-and-react. His rush is fairly active and he plays with some violence in his hands but he lacks the instincts and counters needed to make much of a mark in that area. He might not be selected in the draft, but he has intriguing physical tools.

Came in as a linebacker but was moved to fullback and made a start at defensive tackle. Mason plays with a team-first attitude and twice won the Team's Toughest Player Award. He's not a bonafide lead blocker but he does a decent job of clearing debris. He doesn't have much pass-catching experience. However, he will get a check mark for his special-teams value. At a position with few jobs available, the going could be tough for him.

Big receiver who tested well coming out of high school and is likely to do the same before the 2021 NFL Draft. This is an important bit of information, as height, weight, size and explosiveness always catch the eyes of NFL evaluators. However, the tape will show a linear route-runner who struggles to get off press. He primarily poses a third-level threat but has below-average contested-catch talent and suspect hands. Eagles is a one-dimensional wideout who hasn't mastered his one dimension, but teams are often willing to take shots on players with rare physical gifts, which could land Eagles on a practice squad.

Four-year starter who has been able to ride his instincts, play recognition and motor into a mound of tackles. Finishing with over 400 tackles in the Big Ten is very impressive and his production in creating fumbles and defending passes is well worth mentioning. However, the question always becomes whether or not production is translatable and Fisher's lack of NFL traits, athleticism and functional speed should cast doubt about his potential. He's clearly an instinctive, hard-nosed player, but he might not have the minimum level of physical tools that NFL teams will be willing to bet on.

High-cut with exceptionally long limbs featuring rare height and length that can stress smaller corners. Vasher's long strides can overtake cornerbacks on over routes but he's not a naturally fast runner as a vertical option. Getting into his routes could be a problem as teams will consistently press and physically challenge him throughout the game to make him prove he can get away and keep his patterns on schedule. The highlight reel catches he makes above-the-rim offer a glimpse of unique ball skills but the question will be whether or not he can even get to the phase of the rep with his lack of play strength and separation explosiveness.

A well-built, small-school running back with good burst and change-of-direction quickness, McCrary needs to prove he can play with the big boys. He has good speed flowing to the perimeter, but his vision is average and he doesn't run with enough decisiveness, which works against his potential for becoming an outside-zone runner. The physical ability is a plus, but the tape isn't special considering his level of competition.

Small but relatively tough, Williams has been Kansas' top playmaker dating back to 2018. He can be indecisive and an easy tackle when working inside, but has more bounce and elusiveness as an outside runner or when he gets to open space. He's a capable pass catcher but too small to be reliable picking up the blitz, which hurts his third-down value. While the production was strong considering how many yards he had to create on his own, his size could be a stumbling block in the NFL.

Simpson lacks the desired size for an early down running back. He runs with limited knee bend and lacks the agility to work with lateral elusiveness. He's a tough runner, but offers marginal burst through the line and into the second level. Simpson's rigid running style makes it hard for him to fit smoothly into the shape of the running lane, but he will bang and crash into bodies, falling forward for additional yardage. His running and pass-catching aren't particularly exciting, but his return potential might pique the interest of teams looking to sign an undrafted free agent at the position.

Active but extremely undersized, Johnson's production will be challenging to transfer to the pro level. He plays with good leverage and quick hands to punch and separate, but struggles with bigger, more capable blockers who are able to get into him. He's a plus athlete with good balance and change of direction to bolster his pass rush when he's on the move, but he lacks the length and polish to handle one-on-one rush battles against NFL pass protection. He has some talent, but simply falls below the size norms.

Came into Arizona State as a highly regarded safety, but played in only one game last season after losing his starting job and being suspended by the team before he opted out. While NFL teams might end up having major concerns regarding character, concerns over mental mistakes and man coverage inconsistencies should be concerning, too. Crosswell might have to try to make a team as an undrafted free agent.

While it is highly unlikely Pututau hears his name called during the draft, he has some noticeable flashes on tape. Pututau is very raw and in need of much more fundamentals work, but had dominant production in 2019 primarily due to explosive athleticism. His burst up the field is charged up and his testing could create enough buzz that teams will open consideration for a free agent spot despite his age.

Undersized outside linebacker lacking both starting experience and instincts for the position. He has a natural feel for navigating traffic, but that won't be very valuable to him until he improves his play recognition. He is his own worst enemy, often running himself out of proper positioning, but that might be alleviated some with a move to 4-3 Will linebacker. He has adequate athleticism and closing burst to make tackles as a run-and-chase linebacker, but it will take more time and experience.

Developmental prospect projects as wide-body guard with some power but a lack of average play quickness. The former five-star recruit got his start at Auburn before transferring to Florida Atlantic and then to Florida A&M, with the drop down to FCS allowing him to play immediately in 2019. His drop in level of competition in 2019, combined with a lack of football in 2020, creates a dire need for more technique and fundamental work before he has any chance of blocking against pros. He has a shot at landing on a practice squad, thanks to his plus size and NFL play strength.

Team captain and high-end athletic tester who is currently a better athlete than receiver. Wedington has decent size, adequate speed and explosive hips and foot quickness. He's primarily a catch-and-run receiver asked to make things happen with the ball in his hands but does have some three-level traits to work with. He will need to be coached up as a route-runner, but the bigger concern will be his lack of competitiveness in taking control of the catch space and outworking his opponents. His return talent gives him a little bit of a boost, but practice squad might be the early goal.

Outside wideout with good size and build-up speed but lacking the functional short-area movement and catch focus to consistently work the short and intermediate routes. The long touchdown totals from 2020 are nice but Fitzpatrick hasn't shown the ability to operate as a complete wide receiver over the years. He has a chance to go on Day 3, but could have an uphill battle for a roster spot.

Box safety with good size and toughness but missing key elements for both coverage and run support duties. Johnson is more than happy to mix it up but needs to do a better job of locating his run fit and operating with better patience as an open-field tackler. He doesn't have the speed, range or recognition to play on the back-end and could struggle to stay connected with quality pass-catching tight ends as they work through the route. His best shot will be to ball out on special teams in order to make his case.

Pro size with broad, thickly built lower half. Doaks can be a physical runner when he wants to be, but there are times when he gears down rather than imposing his will into contact. He lacks foot quickness and the desired field vision to find pathways and yardage on his own, so power will need to become his calling card. He looks more comfortable lining up behind the quarterback and attacking the flanks, where he has longer to process the defense and can get his momentum building. He does just enough out of the backfield and has decent pass pro potential. He might go undrafted but has enough going for him to get a look.

Face-up rusher with below-average upper- and lower-body flexion to defeat NFL tackles at the top of the rush. He has some straight-line explosiveness with the ability to twitch and go, but restricted stride length hurts his upfield charge and inside counters. He plays through the whistle, posting several sacks in 2019 due to secondary effort and a big closing burst on the quarterback. He plays with strong hands when setting the edge and shows an ability to shed tight ends. Rashed's tape shows a player who might be most viable as a 3-4 run defender/rush linebacker. His special teams value could play in his favor for a roster spot.

Explosive athlete with good speed and plenty of edge in his game. McClain-Sapp is best suited to play tighter man coverage, where he can use his foot quickness to stay connected to the routes from snap to whistle. His instincts and eyes are below average, causing him to struggle to read clues and jump routes. He has acceleration to stay with deep routes but rarely finds the football, which is a big concern. His run support is adequate, but he will be flagged at the next level if he continues to make late hits on blocking receivers. The traits will get him a look in a camp.

Has the size but lacks the functional speed teams are looking for out of a pro receiver. He's a high-character player with focused ball skills and an ability to make the sudden catch in tight quarters, but he's typically smothered from whistle to whistle when facing quality press-man coverage. Ausbon will need to play a much more rugged brand of football to create more separation through physicality, but even then, he will see a high percentage of contested catches.

From walk-on to four-year starter and two-time team captain, Morrissey offers the intelligence and durability teams look for in a center. However, teams look for more size and length from the position since centers are asked to take on massive defensive tackles. He's an athletic fit for an outside zone team, but his size and average pass protection will hurt his chances of being drafted.

In-line tight end with good size and room for more muscle mass. Bates has an athletic background in his high school past, but his play speed tends to be inconsistent as a route-runner. He's lacking the foot quickness to uncover underneath, but he might be able to work up the field with more development. Bates will need to get more physical and improve his hand usage and footwork to become a functional blocker as a pro.

Intriguing height and length but his lack of instincts and burst to close on the throw are clearly the culprits for no career interceptions and a lack of ball production. He's not a very physical run supporter and lacks speed to carry vertical threats down the field. While he has some tools to work with as a press corner, he's just not sticky enough in coverage to make much of a difference.