Commentary

QBs take a hit in latest rankings

Defensive linemen continue to make moves, including three new names

Originally Published: October 17, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

Defensive linemen continue to dominate the top of the draft board, now holding the top four overall spots, but the bigger news is the shifting at quarterback.

West Virginia's Geno Smith has fallen off his torrid early pace and is now outside the top five, while preseason No. 1 overall prospect Matt Barkley of USC has fallen all the way out of the top 10. Additionally, Virginia Tech's Logan Thomas has been taken off my board altogether after failing to show the hoped-for improvement this season.

Elsewhere, a trio of defensive ends make their debuts in the top 32 this week, while two other players are back in the rankings after a brief hiatus.

The biggest jump belongs to a Big 12 offensive tackle who moved up nine spots after shining against top competition in Week 8, while two other interior players and a wide receiver all fell nine spots in the current rankings.

Here's a look at the entire list, with draft-eligible non-seniors noted with an asterisk.


Big Board Bar

1
Star Lotulelei
DT
6-3
320

Analysis: Lotulelei held steady just outside the top five for the first few weeks of the season, but his dominating performance against USC earlier in the season really turned some heads. His quickness and power are too much for interior offensive linemen. He also shows strong hands, nimble feet, the ability to quickly discard blockers, and impressive lateral range. Previously: 1

2
Barkevious Mingo*
DE
6-5
240

Analysis: Mingo's production has increased in recent weeks, and he has the potential to become even better. 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: 3

3
Bjoern Werner*
DE
6-4
255

Analysis: Werner stood out with 1.5 sacks last week against Miami, and continues to move up the board thanks to improved pass-rush skills and his ability to set the edge against the run. He is quick and has strong, heavy hands, and can convert speed to power when rushing the passer. Previously: 8

4
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: 2

5
Chance Warmack
OG
6-2⅜
325

Analysis: 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, he's the best guard I've evaluated since Steve Hutchinson coming out of Michigan in 2001. Previously: 6



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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