2014 NFL Draft Preview

The annual NFL Draft is coming up this Thursday night on ESPN. Only the first round will be picked on Thursday, with the 2nd and 3rd rounds on Friday, and the 4th thought 7th rounds on Saturday. Here is a look at the top prospects at each position this year.

QUARTERBACKS

Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M-People said that he was too short to play in the NFL, but he has proved people wrong in his NFL combine workouts.  His attitude and stories off the field could affect his draft position, but he could be the best available quarterback in the draft.

Blake Bortles, Central Florida-He has the size to be an NFL quarterback and has great arm strength. Both Bortles and Manziel could be upper echalon picks in the draft, maybe even both in the top 10.

RUNNING BACKS

Bishop Sankey, Washington-He has the capability of picking up third down conversions in the NFL, with great strength and power. This forgotten face led the Pac-12 in rushing last season, and could possibly be a 2nd round draft pick.

Carlos Hyde, Ohio State-He would probably be more a fullback in the NFL then a running back (6 ft., 230 lbs), but Hyde can pick up tough yards for any club he goes to. During an off year for running backs, Hyde could be a first round draft pick this year.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Sammy Watkins, Clemson-Watkins is capable of a being a No. 1 receiver in the NFL, with incredible speed and athleticism. He might’ve been the best receiver in Clemson history, and could possibly be a top 5 pick in the draft.

Mike Evans, Texas A&M-Evans is projected to be a No. 2 receiver in the league. The 1-2 combo at Texas A&M these last two seasons with Manziel and Evans was something special. We’ll see where these guys go in the draft this year.

OTHER SPECIAL PROSPECTS

Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo-The explosiveness and ability to rush the quarterback makes him a potential top 5 pick. He has the size and ability to play on the defensive line as well as any linebacker position.

Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina-Clowney is one of the most unique players in the draft, with the ability to conquer offensives with his rushes. He can upgrade every single defensive line in the NFL right now, and could possibly get the No. 1 pick.

Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn-Could become a franchise left tackle. Robinson could easily pave the way in the run game with his technique and footwork. His youth could be a factor for teams looking at him, though.