Six More Leaving Early For The Next Level
The list of NFL draft eligible players continues to grow with six more giving up their final year of college eligibility, including a trio from Michigan State.
Mike Edwards CB Hawaii- Edwards projects as a mid-round pick and could be someone the Redskins target. Edwards has two children, which may have played a role in his decision to leave for the pro level. Edwards began his career at Tennessee, but was kicked off the team by then Head Coach Lane Kiffin due to an off the field incident. While he ranked 12th in the nation in passes defended this season, Edwards is known for his prowess in the return game. Edwards returned three kickoffs for touchdowns this season, a UH record.
Sharrif Floyd DL Florida- The 6'3" 305 Floyd is very versaitle, capable of playing 4-3 tackle or 3-4 end at the next level. One of the most hotly recruited players out of high school, Floyd projects to be selected in one of the first two rounds on draft day. A third team All-American, Floyd led the Gators with eleven tackles for loss in 2012. Floyd joins fellow Gator Matt Elam, who has officially submitted his name as well.
Joe Kruger DE Utah- Kruger becomes the eighth defensive lineman to submit paperwork to forgo his final year of college eligibility. The younger brother of Baltimore Ravens linebacker Paul Kruger, Joe is even bigger, at 6'7" and 280 pounds. Kruger, who led the Utes with six sacks this season, is projected by some scouts as a 3-4 end. Due to his prototype size, scouts believe Kruger could be gone on day two if he has a strong showing in workouts.
Le'Veon Bell RB Michigan State- Bell will be high on the wish list of NFL teams looking for a "big" back. Bell finished 2012 third in the nation in rushing with 138 yards per game. Bell's 1793 yards rushing earned him All-Big 10 first team honors and the total was good enough for second in school history. At 6'2" and 237 pounds, Bell has the size to operate between the tackles in the NFL.
Dion Sims TE Michigan State- Sims has excellent size at 6'5" and 285 pounds. Scouts project Sims to be selected in early to mid rounds, mainly on his enormous potential. Sims is generally considered the fourth best tight end in the draft, trailing three other juniors. For now, Sims is the only tight end that has declared for the draft, so he tops the list. Should the Redskins not bring back Fred Davis, Sims should be under consideration.
William Gholston DE Michigan State- Gholston was easy to spot on the Spartans defensive line. At 6'7" and 280 pounds, Gholston towered over teammates and foes alike. Gholston also wore uniform number two, certainly unusual for a defensive end. One of the nation's most decorated high school players, Gholston is projected to go early to mid rounds in the April draft.
