2018 NFL Draft Scouting Notes

Braden Smith, OG, Auburn - Senior
6-6 303 lbs

This is my second write-up on Smith. I am not sure if you recall, but earlier this year in my offensive line preview, I was pretty tough on Smith. I really was not a fan of his tape and, as always, I tried to stick to what I saw on film. However, to give credit where credit is due, I am very impressed at the progression I have seen in Smith throughout this season. He has vastly improved in both run and the pass protection and shown good hand use and improved leverage. I once thought he was overhyped and but Smith has proved to me this season he’s got NFL talent. Go back and watch him this past weekend in the Alabama game; I currently have a 3rd round grade on him with 4 more tapes I need to go through.

John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville - Junior
6-2 211 lbs

I want to make my thoughts so far on Jackson clear; He’s an elite athlete with deadly elusiveness, good instincts, playmaking ability and a cannon for an arm. He’s coming off a good year; he’s a leader for his team, clearly a game-changer on offense and a legitimate NFL talent. My main issue with his film is the accuracy inconsistencies. He’s very inaccurate, especially in the short to medium range and I believe his footwork needs to improvement also. I love his running ability (especially in today’s NFL) but his frame scares me. To add to that, I firmly believe a QB needs to pass first, run second. In my mind, his passing game isn’t a first round talent. He’s a playmaker, a winner and an elite athlete but his passing needs improvement. That’s why I am hesitating on giving him a high grade. This doesn’t mean I dislike him; simply telling you what I see on film.

Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

Vita Vea, DT, Washington - Senior
6-4 344 lbs

Vea has been impressive this season and I haven’t talked enough about him. I, frankly have 2 more films to go through on him, but I really wanted to add him to this edition. He’s been very good, showing good strength, dominance and power. I have also been impressed with his instincts and awareness. He’s got a good shot to be a first round pick next year and an immediate contributor in the NFL.

Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Virginia Tech - Junior
6-4 236 lbs

I am not sure where I like Edmunds for the NFL but one thing I know; he’s a special talent. He’s got a nose for the ball and he’s got a high motor. I think he’s tough, physical and has that “it” factor. I am not sure if he declares for the draft but I think he’s got potential to be an all-pro in the NFL.

Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

Marcus Davenport, DE, Texas - San Antonio - Senior
6-6 235 lbs

Now, I have not watched a lot of film on him; but what I’ve seen has been impressive. He’s got fantastic size, uses his hands effectively, and shows great power. I need to dive deeper into his game tape but so far this small school kid is impressive.

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Other impressive prospects:

Duke Dawson, CB, Florida
Billy Price, C/G, Ohio St.
Quin Blanding, S, Virginia
Mike Hughes, CB, Central Florida
Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma
DeShon Elliott, S, Texas
Joe Ostman, DE, Central Michigan
Khalil Hodge, LB, Buffalo