Commentary

Pass-rushers continue to rise

Versatility, momentum key for two hybrid defenders ascending the top 10

Originally Published: February 8, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

My updated ranking of the top 32 prospects does not feature as much turnover as the previous version -- seven new faces appeared in last week's ranking -- but there are still some noteworthy moves being made.

First, a pair of hybrid pass-rushers continue to ride momentum built during Senior Bowl week and both are now inside the top 10. The top inside linebacker on the board is out of the top 10, though.

And while the top two spots are still on lockdown, the most talented defensive player in the 2012 class has moved up to No. 3.

Here's the entire list.


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1
Andrew Luck*
QB
6-4
235

Analysis: Speculation about Peyton Manning's situation in Indianapolis continues to swirl, but it's looking more and more like Luck and his once-in-a-generation skill set are headed to the Colts. Last week: 1

2
Matt Kalil*
OT
6-7
295

Analysis: Kalil is clearly the top offensive lineman in the board, with his combination of light feet and good balance as a pass-blocker and the edge he flashes in the running game. He's ready to start from day one. Last week: 2

3
Quinton Coples
DE
6-5¾
281

Analysis: There have been questions about Coples' work ethic and motor, but he dominated at the Senior Bowl and his upside as an all-around defender will make him a coveted player on draft day. Last week: 4

4
Robert Griffin III*
QB
6-1½
218

Analysis: The 2011 Heisman Trophy winner continues to rise. He won't pass Luck on my board, but Griffin's mobility, quick release and arm strength have helped him narrow the gap and create some intrigue as teams potentially jockey for a chance to select him, perhaps as high as No. 2 overall. Last week: 3

5
Trent Richardson*
RB
5-11
224

Analysis: Richardson is clearly the top running back in the 2012 class -- and one of the highest-rated backs in recent years -- thanks to an elite combination of size, speed, power, balance and vision. Last week: 5



To see the rest of Todd McShay's rankings, you must be an ESPN Insider.

Todd McShay

Scouts Inc.
  • ESPN College Football and NFL Draft Analyst
  • Joined ESPN in 2006
  • Played quarterback in high school and was a backup QB for the University of Richmond.

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