Commentary

Changes at the top of the board

Struggles for some, standout games for others others lead to movement

Originally Published: September 19, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

Yes, the college football season is still young, but some big-name players haven't quite lived up to expectations thus far, and the result is a shake-up in my latest ranking of the top 32 prospects for the 2013 NFL draft.

The biggest change is at the top, where Georgia OLB Jarvis Jones has swapped places with USC QB Matt Barkley, moving from No. 4 to No. 1 overall.

That's not to say I believe Jones will be the top overall pick when April rolls around, but at this point he's taking advantage of Barkley and other struggling prospects and boosting his stock.

Virginia Tech QB Logan Thomas is among those struggling, with his inconsistent footwork and accuracy raising questions about whether he's doing the little things to take his game to an elite level. As a result, Thomas has fallen 19 spots all the way to No. 30.

Elsewhere, a Big 12 quarterback has jumped ahead of Thomas, a top SEC cornerback moves into the top 10, and two defensive backs and a wideout make their season debuts in the top 32.

Remember to check back later in the week for a complete update to Scouts Inc.'s top 150. And as always, draft-eligible non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.


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4
Jarvis Jones*
OLB
6-2
242

Analysis: Jones' dominating performance against Missouri turned plenty of heads. He flashed an impressive combination of pass-rush skills, range and coverage ability. He has the versatility to line up all over the formation, and is a very good overall athlete. Previously: 4

2
Chance Warmack
OG
6-2⅜
325

Analysis: Warmack is as good as any guard prospect I've ever evaluated, dating back to Steve Hutchinson coming out of Michigan in 2001. Warmack is agile, athletic and strong, and the rare guard worthy of a top-10 pick. The classic interior tough guy who is also a very smart player. Previously: 2

3
Barkevious Mingo*
DE
6-5
240

Analysis: Mingo has a long frame, an elite first step as a pass-rusher and outstanding speed for his size. He also has great range and closing burst against the run. Previously: 3

1
Matt Barkley
QB
6-1⅞
228

Analysis: Barkley has been victimized by leaky protection and drops by his receivers, but his decision-making also has not lived up to expectations. Still, he's smart, accurate and throws with good tempo, so he remains the clear-cut No. 1 quarterback on the board. Previously: 1

5
Johnathan Jenkins
DT
6-4⅛
363

Analysis: A massive two-gap nose tackle with a good combination of size, strength and short-area quickness to control the inside and occasionally contribute as a pass-rusher. Previously: 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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