Clemson Football: Four Tigers ranked among Top 20 NFL Draft Prospects
CBS Sports recently updated their Top 20 NFL Draft Prospects. The Clemson football program had four players named, two of which are new to the list.
Clemson has one of the most talented defenses in the entire country. Coming into 2017, scouts were drooling over the Tigers’ talent along the defensive line. Through this point in the season, however, two of Clemson’s linebackers have stolen the show.
Kendall Joseph and Dorian O’Daniel are playing the best football of their respective careers. The two have combined for 77 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, two interceptions and two touchdowns, through five games.
Joseph made his debut on the list at No. 9, while O’Daniel came it at No. 15. Not too shabby considering neither were listed a week ago.
Clemson’s Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant were also among the Top 20 NFL prospects, coming in at No. 12 and 20 respectively.
Noteworthy
Surprisingly do-it-all defensive tackle, Christian Wilkins was left off the list, receiving an honorable mention. While Wilkins’ statistics aren’t necessarily eye popping, there is no debating his impact on games. At 6-foot-4, 290 pounds, Wilkins can play anywhere along the defensive line. His explosion and flexibility are rare for a man his size.
Florida State’s Derrick Nnadi, Derwin James and Auden Tate all made the cut. It’s interesting to see Tate’s name is brought up, considering his lackluster performances against Alabama and Wake Forest.
The ACC had eight players named, four more than the next closest conference. It’s clear Clemson’s recent success boosted the image of the entire ACC. As did Lamar Jackson winning the Heisman trophy.
Notre Dame alone was tied with the SEC and Pac-12 with two players named, while The Big Ten and AAC each had one player named.
Next: Scouting report vs. Wake Forest
As the season continues to progress Clemson could have more players creep their way onto the list. Guys like Deon Cain and Mitch Hyatt have first round talent.