Commentary

Smith now atop 2013 QB rankings

Two defenders make moves; a big-name DB plummets out of the rankings

Originally Published: October 3, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.
West Virginia QB Geno Smith has been the story of the college season so far with his video-game numbers, and his fast start has propelled him up the 2013 draft board with dizzying speed.

Smith has passed USC's Matt Barkley as the top quarterback on the board, and this week has jumped from No. 17 all the way to the No. 2 spot in my ranking of the top 32 overall prospects.

He's not the biggest riser, though. That distinction belongs to Florida State DE Bjoern Werner, who has moved up 18 spots and is now inside the top 10. A big-name SEC linebacker has also moved into the top 10 (up from No. 20), while a pair of linemen make their debuts this week.

Elsewhere, a cornerback who began the season in the top five has fallen all the way out of the top 32.

Here's how the entire list shakes down at this point. As always, draft-eligible non-seniors are noted with an asterisk.


Big Board Bar

1
Jarvis Jones*
OLB
6-2
242

Analysis: Jones dominated Missouri in the season opener and has been steady ever since. He's a very good overall athlete and top-notch pass-rusher, has impressive range in both pass coverage and against the run, and can line up in various spots across the formation. Previously: 1

2
Geno Smith
QB
6-2¾
208

Analysis: Smith is in total command of coach Dana Holgorsen's offense, throwing with exceptional timing and anticipation, and his 20 touchdown passes and 83.4 completion percentage speak to that. He is confident in his ability, has good mobility and his footwork, mechanics and release are all impressive. If Smith keeps this up he will be in the mix for the No. 1 overall pick. Previously: 17

3
Matt Barkley
QB
6-1⅞
228

Analysis: Barkley's supporting cast has let him down some early this season, and his decision-making has not been as good as expected. However, he will remain high on the board because of his smarts, accuracy and ability to get the ball out in rhythm and on time. He will be a good fit in a West Coast offense. Previously: 3

4
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

5
Barkevious Mingo*
DE
6-5
240

Analysis: Mingo did not record his first sack of the season until last week's win over Towson, but his potential is through the roof. He 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: 4



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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