More Early Entrants for '13 NFL Draft
One week remains (Jan 15) until the deadline for underclassman to enter the 2013 NFL Draft. Seven more players have given up their college eligibility, including four tight end's.
Gavin Escobar TE San Diego State- Escobar has the size (6'6" 250) and the athleticism that fits the new breed of tight end that is changing the game. Projected to go in the second round, Escobar fits the "joker" descrption becoming popluar across the league. With Fred Davis' return an uncertainty, Escobar could be a good fit in Ashburn.
Zach Ertz TE Stanford- Can we call Stanford Tight End U? Ertz was the leading receiver for the Cardinal in 2012 with 69 catches, more than twice as many receptions as anyone on the team. Ertz is 6'6" 250 and many are expecting he and Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert to be the first at the position off the board.
Levine Toilolo TE Stanford- Yes, two tight ends from Stanford are departing early for the pro game. Toilolo finished second on the team in touchdown catches and third in yards receiving. Levine has great size (6'7" 265), but scouts feel he needs to work on his blocking. Colts tight end Coby Fleener, Toilolo and Ertz were often utilitzed together in a three tight end set during Andrew Luck's final season with the Cardinal.
Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- I would love to see Eifert in a Redskins uniform next season, but I'm not sure the team can allocate the high pick needed to land the 65" 250 pound All-American. Eifert is an adequate blocker, but his pass catching skills are what has scouts drooling. The 'Skins would be well served taking Eifert with their top pick (2nd round), but they will likely be using that selection on a RT or DB.
Tyler Bray QB Tennessee- Bray is a true gunslinger, but his slight frame (6'5" 210) worries me a bit. Bray has trememdous raw skills, but some have questioned his work ethic. Bray would be best served if given time to develop and getting solid coaching from an established quarterback coach. Bray is a surefire pick in either the first or second round come April.
Michael Ford RB LSU- LSU much be approaching double digits in number of players leaving Baton Route early. Ford is the second running back to depart, joining Spencer Ware. Ford was an elie recruit for Les Miles, but has yet to develop to reach full potential. Ford has the size (5'10" 220) and the durability scouts are looking for. Ford is projected to be selected mid-draft.
Jelani Jenkins LB Florida- Jenkins is a local kid, starring at Good Counsel in Olney, Maryland. A two-way star and Parade All-American in high school, Jenkins was one of the most hotly recruited players in the nation as a senior. Jenkins began his career as the Gators middle linebacker, but has moved outside and is one of the best "cover" linebackers in the draft. Injuries plagued him this season, which may drop him down into the third or fourth round.
