2013 NFL draft Big Board

A safety from Florida debuts this week, as secondary options grow

Originally Published: February 7, 2013
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider

The attention this week will be on the latest mock draft, but remember to utilize the Big Board to gain a better sense of where I rank the players as prospects. The fact is the way guys line up on the Big Board won't be a perfect indicator of how they are drafted. One new name to watch this week is Matt Elam, the safety out of Florida. I think his versatility could push him into the first round.

Remember, the scouting perspective below will remain similar week to week unless my evaluation of a player really shifts, but I'll note recent observations and opinions as the draft process continues. Please also see my rankings of the top 5 draft prospects at every position. Juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.

1
Jarvis Jones *
AGE: 23
DOB: 10/13/89
HT: 6-3
WT: 241
POS: OLB
Tkl 85
Sack 14.5
Int 1

I'm not sure the combine will show off everything Jones is capable of, but the tape sure does. His performance and positional value reflect this ranking, because he combines explosiveness, discipline, relentless pass-rushing ability and great intangibles and effort. He profiles as a 3-4 OLB, but he's also strong against the run and can really cover.

LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD

2
Damontre Moore *
AGE: 20
DOB: 9/11/92
HT: 6-4
WT: 248
POS: DE
Tkl 80
Sack 12.5
Int 0

Should simply frighten quarterbacks. He's an extremely good athlete, but there's some technical skills here. A consistent performer, he got better all season. Adjusted well to playing as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. Excels as a pass-rusher, able to dip hips, turn the corner and use quickness and length to beat tackles. Hand play can improve, but he can really fly.

LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD

3
Luke Joeckel *
AGE: 21
DOB: 11/6/91
HT: 6-6
WT: 310
POS: OT
GP 12
GS 12

Joeckel has the ability to just swallow up even really good pass-rushers. He has a ton of experience, starting on the left since his freshman season. He can really drive people in the run game, even if he gets questions on how nasty he is as a finisher. The feeling now is he's a safe bet to be the first OT taken.

LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD

4
Star Lotulelei
AGE: 23
DOB: 12/20/89
HT: 6-4
WT: 325
POS: DT
Tkl 42
Sack 5.0
Int 0

You can't block him with one guy. He absorbs so much blocking help and frees up others, but he's not just a clogger, because he can show off a great burst and the ability to destroy plays. Has a great sense for disrupting the run game. Quick off the ball with great upper- and lower-body strength. Coaches rave about him.

LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD

5
Dee Milliner *
AGE: 21
DOB: 9/14/91
HT: 6-1
WT: 199
POS: CB
Tkl 54
Sack 1.5
Int 2

Such a high floor. Milliner is a quick study; questions on his cover skills have largely been put to rest. He got better and better as the season progressed. The raw football skills are exceptional. His physical prowess is a step above that of other corners. He hits receivers and isn't shy in run support, but with that, he is fluid, reads the game well and can turn and run with wideouts. High floor.

LAST WEEK: 6 | PLAYER CARD


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Mel Kiper Jr.

Football analyst
  • ESPN NFL Draft analyst since 1984
  • Contributes to SportsCenter and ESPN Radio
  • Writes weekly for ESPN Insider

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