2018 NFL Draft Scouting Notes

Joshua Jackson, CB, Iowa - Junior
6-1 185 lbs

Jackson had a massive game last weekend against Ohio St. that included an incredible one handed INT that helped secure a surprise victory against the 6th ranked Buckeyes. Throughout the season Jackson has been solid. I think he’s a very good athlete with great jumping ability, fluid hips, good footwork and a physicality that all coaches would love. He’s certainly not afraid to hit and get rough with WRs (which can get you in penalty trouble if not done properly). I’d like him to become a little more aware when the ball is in the air and I don’t think he’s got good change of direction speed but Jackson is emerging as a solid CB prospect for the 2018 draft.

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Ryan Finley, QB, N.C. St. - Junior
6-3 205 lbs

I got some heat from Charles Portnoy @chazz27502 on twitter about not including Finley in my QB preview class and I told him that I haven’t watched any film on him but I would; well I did and I came away impressed. I really like his release, touch, and anticipation he puts on throws. I think he does well under pressure (although his accuracy does suffer a bit when he’s on the move), has a pretty strong arm and there was more than one time I was very impressed with his touch. Finley’s stock is rising.

Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

Will Hernandez, G, UTEP - Senior
6-3 340 lbs

There has been a lot of talk that Hernandez could be a top interior pick in the 2018 NFL Draft next year and unfortunately I never got to do any film breakdown on him for my preview of the offensive line. I finally got around to putting in some time for film and I am not going to lie, at first I wasn’t seeing high draft pick in regards to his play. I really wasn’t impressed with his run blocking especially; however when you really watch multiple games of him, you get to see just what he is; and that is consistency. He’s a good, solid pass protector and an average run blocker. My opinion of him grew the more I watched him. He could pass block in this league right now, no question. He needs improvement in the running game; which really can be done by any O-line coach because he just needs to improve basics: driving while engaged, staying low, latching onto ect. He’s also got a good motor too. Overall Hernandez has potential to be a solid NFL guard; we will see when we get closer to the draft exactly where he will land.

Sony Michel, RB, Georgia
5-11 215 lbs

Michel is in the same backfield and as star RB Nick Chubb but Michel still gets his fair share of attention in the draft community. He’s a tough runner with truly gifted feet. He’s such a smooth runner with terrific field vision. He’s got a heck of a stiff arm, elusive, fantastic cutting ability and the toughness to run over people. He’s going to be a productive player in the NFL providing he stays healthy.

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Stephen Louis, WR, N.C. St. -Junior
6-2 215 lbs

We are going to go back to N.C. St. for a moment because Louis stood out in film while I was watching Finley. He’s a Junior so I am not sure if he will declare, but he’s a tough runner; fantastic after the catch, solid hands, knows how to high point the jump ball and is a good blocker. He deserves more film breakdown and should be catching eyes on scouts.

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Wyatt Teller, G, Virginia Tech
6-5 304 lbs

Already one of my favorites in this draft class, Teller is an experienced leader and an absolute mauler on the field. I think his tape has been solid and I would be thrilled if the Dolphins could get him.

Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Deshon Elliott, S, Texas - Junior
6-1 208 lbs

Elliot is an aggressive safety that loves to hit and be physical. I love his ability in the running game and he is a solid, tough tackler. He’s also got fantastic play recognition and he flies to the ball. However, I am concerned with his overall speed, agility and his footwork. I think his aggressiveness gets him in trouble at times too. He certainly has potential though and will be on my radar throughout the season.

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports