Commentary

Griffin still rising up draft board

Top 10 changes little; new defensive linemen help shake things up down below

Originally Published: January 4, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

The Jan. 15 deadline for eligible non-seniors to declare themselves eligible for the 2012 NFL draft is rapidly approaching, and those non-seniors are continuing to crowd the top of the draft board.

Only one senior ranks among the top 10 in my latest ranking of the top 32 eligible prospects, and non-seniors occupy 22 total spots on the list. The top five hold steady this week, but Baylor QB Robert Griffin III continues to rise and is threatening to break into the group.

There's plenty of shuffling down below, with Oklahoma QB Landry Jones heading back to Norman and a pair of LSU defensive linemen making their debuts this week. Meanwhile, a big-name offensive lineman has fallen to the edge of the top 10.

Here's a look at how the entire list shakes down as we approach the deadline.


Big Board Bar

1
Andrew Luck*
QB
6-4
235

Analysis: Finished his college career with a bang, showcasing his entire skill set while completing 27 of 31 passes for 347 yards and two scores in the Fiesta Bowl. Next stop, Indianapolis? Last week: 1

2
Matt Kalil*
OT
6-7
295

Analysis: Kalil remains 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 1. Last week: 2

3
Morris Claiborne*
CB
6-0
173

Analysis: Claiborne is the top draft-eligible cover corner in the nation, showing size, speed, fluid hips and impressive ball skills. He's played somewhat in the shadow of playmaking teammate Tyrann Mathieu , but Claiborne is clearly a top-10 talent. Last week: 3

4
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: 4

5
Quinton Coples
DE
6-6⅛
272

Analysis: There are questions about Coples' work ethic and motor, but none about his physical tools and huge upside. 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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