There are many NCAA schools riddled with NFL talent on their rosters. Each player has the sparkle in his eye and the hope of hearing his name called in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 27th. The reality is, not everyone can be selected during the seven-round NFL draft. Today, I break down the NFL talent from Clemson University.
The Clemson Tigers
The Tigers have ten prospects that have a chance to hear their name called during the 2017 NFL draft. Let’s take a more in-depth look at each player.
Deshaun Watson– QB
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 221 lbs
Deshaun Watson carries himself the way every quarterback should, both on and off the field. In 35 games as the Tigers starting quarterback, Watson threw for 10,168 yards, 90 touchdowns (32 interceptions), and averaged 8.4 yards per pass attempt. He managed to complete 67.4 percent of his passes and maintain a 157.5 passer efficiency rating. Now is a chance for you to get to know Deshaun Watson, the person.
For all the football nerds out there (I am one too), watch the ease and accuracy Watson throws with when Jon Gruden puts him through drills at Gruden’s QB Camp. He also has great footwork. (Yes, I do know there are no pads or defenders chasing after him).
After working out both Mitchell Trubisky and Deshaun Watson, Trey Wingo interviewed Jon Gruden. He was curious as to which quarterback he would draft first, and why.
I am with you, Gruden. Watson has the balance of competitiveness and poise that I want to see in my future quarterback. He also is a proven winner and leader, two additional qualities that are very important to the quarterback position. However, Watson will likely be the 2nd quarterback taken in this draft (although I would choose him over Trubisky). Look for Watson to be selected early/mid 1st round by the Cleveland Browns (12th overall).
Player comparison: smaller Marcus Mariota
Mike Williams– WR
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 218 lbs
Mike Williams has prototypical-NFL wide receiver size. He is a big-bodied receiver that likes to use his hands to create separation on routes. He effortlessly plucks balls right out of the sky with his strong hands. Last season, Williams hauled in 98 receptions for 1,361 yards and 11 touchdowns. Additionally, he has the ability to make incredibly acrobatic catches.
Shot 1 – Mike Williams does a great job here of staying close to the CB until the very last moment, giving Watson plenty of space outside pic.twitter.com/n0BEfvLUhV
— Fran Duffy (@fduffy3) March 31, 2017
@49ersHub this guy…Mike Williams that is…. pic.twitter.com/vWMhbM2doL
— Harv (@loyaltynlove24) March 24, 2017
Really don’t understand the hesitancy on Mike Williams. He’s going to do this to basically any corner on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Idc. pic.twitter.com/7G7t3B3sMF
— A.J. Milack (@AJMilackNFL) March 22, 2017
If you are unfamiliar with Mike Williams, this is a chance for you to get to know him as a person. His message to the NFL, “to expect big things”.
“Expect to see some great things.”@darealmike_dub ready to make impact in NFL. https://t.co/tHEBjn4CHV
— NFL (@NFL) March 26, 2017
One NFC Pro Personnel Director told NFL.com,
“Really pretty looking when you watch him down on the field but he’s not there yet. I think he’ll get there but he’s not there yet. I don’t think he’s going to run as fast as people think. When college players get up here and find out that cornerbacks are faster and more physical, there is an adjustment period. I think it will take him some time to figure things out but I think he’ll do it. He’s going to be good, I just don’t know if he’s going to be a star.”
Williams impressed at his Pro Day as he ran a faster 40-yard dash than most scouts projected (4.53 & 4.51). After losing some key receivers in free agency, look for the Baltimore Ravens (16th overall) to select Mike Williams. The tandem of Mike Williams (size) and Mike Wallace (speed) would be a viable offensive threat. Drafting Williams gives “gunslinger” Joe Flacco an additional target to throw to on the outside.
Player comparison: Brandon Marshall
The Other Tigers
Cordrea Tankersley (CB) – Mid 2nd round (39th overall) – New York Jets.
Carlos Watkins (DT) – Mid 3rd round (80th overall) – Indianapolis Colts.
Jordan Legget (TE) – Late 3rd round (94th overall) – Pittsburgh Steelers.
Wayne Gallman (RB) – Late 3rd round (104th overall) – Kansas City Chiefs.
Jadar Johnson (SS) – Late 5th round (183rd overall) – New England Patriots.
Artavis Scott (WR) – Mid 6th round (199th overall) – Minnesota Vikings.
Jay Guillermo (C) – Mid 7th round (237th overall) – Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Ben Boulware (ILB) – Undrafted.
