The Best 2017 NFL Draft Prospect for Every Power 5 College Football Team
A few months away from the college football regular season, we already enjoy a relatively clear outlook on each power-conference team's best 2017 NFL draft prospect.
There will be late-rising and breakout players, but most of the following talents have starred at their respective programs for the last two or three years.
Remember, though, NFL franchises aren't looking strictly at stats, so a team's best prospect is not necessarily the biggest producer on a given roster. Additionally, the top prospect may not be a college's first product that's selected.
Ordered alphabetically, this list focuses strictly on draft-eligible players—which includes underclassmen.
Alabama
1 of 65
Cam Robinson, LT
Alabama will be well-represented in the first round of the 2017 draft. Tim Williams, Jonathan Allen, Reuben Foster and others are likely to come off the board on Day 1.
The ultimate prize for many NFL teams, however, is Cam Robinson. Elite left tackles have become invaluable commodities in today's pass-happy league.
Robinson has notched 76 knockdown blocks through two seasons, per the school's official website. He was a freshman All-American, then earned first-team All-SEC in 2015.
Arizona
2 of 65
Paul Magloire Jr., S
It didn't take long for Paul Magloire Jr. to make an impression in Tuscon after transferring from Arizona Western.
The safety/linebacker collected 72 total stops during his first season with Arizona. Magloire has earned a place as a team leader and received plenty of praise from head coach Rich Rodriguez.
"Paul will be one of the guys we'll lean on for sure," Rodriguez said, according to Michael Lev of the Arizona Daily Star. "It's important for the summer. It's important on game days when the coaches aren't out there. I think Paul will give us that."
Magloire, who projects better at safety than linebacker, added a pass breakup and forced fumble in 2015.
Arizona State
3 of 65
Demario Richard, RB
There's a true lack of NFL-caliber talent at Arizona State. Tashon Smallwood, Salamo Fiso, Viliami Moeakiola and D.J. Calhoun will get looks, but they're not can't-miss players.
Demario Richard's primary asset is versatility. He accumulated 1,104 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season, adding 31 receptions for 303 yards and three scores.
Any of those four defenders could jump Richard—especially since the junior shares the backfield with Kalen Ballage. Even as ASU's top prospect, Richard might benefit from staying through 2017.
Arkansas
4 of 65
Deatrich Wise Jr., DE
Twelve months away from the draft, Arkansas offensive tackle Dan Skipper is a potential late first-rounder. Tight end Jeremy Sprinkle might make an appearance in two-round mocks.
But the Razorbacks' best prospect plays defense. Deatrich Wise Jr. only had 31 tackles in 2015, but eight were sacks.
According to Leslie Koerdt of Gridiron Now, Wise "was so disruptive this spring that on more than one occasion, coach Bret Bielema had to take him out so the revamped offensive line could get a breather of sorts."
Wise also registered five quarterback hurries, three pass breakups and three forced fumbles as a junior.
Auburn
5 of 65
Carl Lawson, DE
Most everyone agrees: One player doesn't make a defense. But anyone whose seen Auburn with and without Carl Lawson likely disagrees wholeheartedly.
Those injuries have overshadowed his college days, however. Lawson missed the entire 2014 season due to a torn left ACL and wasn't at full strength in 2015 because of a cracked right hip, which sounds awful.
Nevertheless, Bleacher Report's Matt Miller currently ranks the defensive end as the 2017 draft's No. 5 prospect. Lawson has tallied 37 total tackles with five sacks and 18 quarterback hurries.
Baylor
6 of 65
KD Cannon, WR
Does your favorite NFL team need a deep threat? Let's chat about Baylor speedster KD Cannon.
He's the clear-cut choice to replace first-round selection Corey Coleman in Art Briles' spread offense. So far, Cannon has grabbed 108 passes for 1,898 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Cannon is far from being a finished product, but he'll probably see 110-plus targets and put up incredible numbers in 2016.
Boston College
7 of 65
Matt Milano, LB
Although the departure of defensive coordinator Don Brown could lead to a drop in production, Matt Milano is on NFL radars.
Last year, Milano notched a seemingly pedestrian 60 tackles in 12 games. But the linebacker amassed 17.5 tackles for loss, including 6.5 sacks. He added three pass breakups, two forced fumbles, two blocked kicks and a fumble recovery.
Milano earned third-team All-ACC honors in 2015 and could ascend to first-team status next season.
Cal
8 of 65
Steven Moore, OT
Hardy Nickerson would've held this spot, but he transferred to Illinois. Michael Barton was the No. 2 choice, but he made his way to Arizona. Instead, this spot goes to Steven Moore.
Over the last three years, Moore has logged 36 combined starts at left and right tackle. He's penciled in as the right tackle for the Golden Bears, who must reload the offensive skill positions.
Moore, who checks in at 6'6" and 305 pounds, could be a Day 3 pick with a strong senior campaign.
Clemson
9 of 65
Deshaun Watson, QB
Had he been eligible for the 2016 draft, Deshaun Watson probably would've gone No. 1 overall. Consequently, the dual-threat quarterback is the early top-pick favorite for 2017.
Watson doesn't have ideal NFL size at 6'2", something that will undoubtedly be used against him in the predraft process. Watson's skills are undeniable, though.
Last season, the first-team All-American became the first player ever to exceed 4,000 passing and 1,000 rushing yards. He scored 47 total touchdowns, throwing 35 and running for 12.
Miller projected Watson as the No. 1 pick. The Clemson star will likely retain that billing with a healthy season.
Colorado
10 of 65
Chidobe Awuzie, CB
Boulder certainly isn't an NFL pipeline, but Colorado has a surefire 2017 draft pick in Chidobe Awuzie.
A 6'0", 205-pound versatile defensive back, Awuzie was the Buffs' leading tackler last season. He recorded 85 stops with 12 tackles for loss and four sacks. Awuzie broke up seven passes, intercepted two and forced a pair of fumbles.
Awuzie has contributed at every spot in the secondary—outside corner, nickelback and safety—and might be selected on Day 2. If he performs well this year, Awuzie could slide into Round 2.
Duke
11 of 65
DeVon Edwards, S
Yet another tackling machine from Duke, DeVon Edwards has claimed a place among the top draft-eligible safeties. But that's not all he does for the Blue Devils.
Through three years in Durham, he's gathered 298 tackles, 21 pass breakups, five interceptions, five forced fumbles and two defensive scores. Plus, Edwards has returned six kickoffs for touchdowns.
Without question, his 5'9", 180-pound frame will be considered a negative. But Edwards is too productive—both as a defender and returner—to be ignored by the NFL because he's short.
Florida
12 of 65
Jalen Tabor, CB
Florida safety Keanu Neal soared into the top 20 of the 2016 draft, but cornerback Jalen Tabor is already a top candidate to hear his name called on Day 1.
ESPN's Greg Ostendorf even said Tabor "looks to be a first-round lock." Following a terrific 2015 campaign, it's hard to disagree.
Tabor registered 40 tackles and four interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. He also broke up 14 passes while matching—if not outperforming—2016 first-rounder Vernon Hargreaves III.
Florida State
13 of 65
Dalvin Cook, RB
Roderick Johnson could be Florida State's top selection because he's arguably the second-best left tackle in this class. The best prospect, though, is running back Dalvin Cook.
The position admittedly isn't valued like it once was. Unless the player is a special talent such as Todd Gurley or Ezekiel Elliott, backs regularly fall on draft day.
Still, whichever franchise selects Cook will receive an ultra-productive runner. He eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark as a freshman, then posted 1,691 yards and 19 touchdowns last season.
Georgia
14 of 65
Nick Chubb, RB
Fresh off the "undervaluing of running backs" discussion, here's the second straight top prospect at the position. Regardless, Nick Chubb is that caliber of player.
He racked up 745 yards and seven touchdowns before the first carry at Tennessee ended his season. The 5'10", 220-pounder was on pace to shatter his freshman marks of 1,547 yards and 14 scores, which Chubb posted despite serving as the backup for five weeks.
We haven't seen him as a completely healthy full-time starter, and Georgia likely won't allow Chubb to be the workhorse in hopes of protecting him from injury. He'll be better off in the NFL because of it.
Georgia Tech
15 of 65
P.J. Davis, LB
Though placekicker Harrison Butker has a legitimate argument for this status, P.J. Davis gets the nod.
Last season, Davis accumulated a team-best 77 tackles with 6.5 for loss and two sacks. He managed two quarterback hurries and forced a fumble, too. That followed a fantastic 2014 campaign where Davis collected 119 tackles and jarred the ball loose three times.
At just 5'11", his size will be a problem, but Davis is probably worth a Day 3 flier on a linebacker-needy team.
Illinois
16 of 65
Dawuane Smoot, DE
Nickerson could snatch the title from Dawuane Smoot, but the defensive end has major production and high aspirations.
"I want to try to be [an NFL] first-rounder and to be an All-American," Smoot said, per ESPN.com's Brian Bennett. "Double-digit sacks and then go to the league. Those are my expectations."
The upcoming draft is loaded with sack artists, so standing out as a pass-rusher won't be easy. Still, Smoot tallied eight sacks last season, finishing with 15 tackles for loss.
Indiana
17 of 65
Dan Feeney, OG
The Green Bay Packers selected Indiana product Jason Spriggs in the second round of the 2016 draft, and fellow offensive lineman Dan Feeney could earn a similar outcome next year.
A third-team All-American last season, Feeney has started 37 games at right guard for the Hoosiers. According to the school, he's surrendered a single sack during 2,719 career snaps.
Feeney, who's listed at 6'4" and 310 pounds, is the No. 2 guard in the 2017 class, per NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports).
Iowa
18 of 65
Desmond King, CB
Few would've faulted Desmond King for turning pro after the 2015 season. The Iowa cornerback reeled in eight interceptions and won the prestigious Thorpe Award.
However, King decided to return. His mother cited "unfinished business," according to Danny Payne of the Daily Iowan.
King was a borderline first-round pick, but 2016 offers him a chance to establish himself as a highly coveted Day 1 target.
Iowa State
19 of 65
Allen Lazard, WR
While Ames isn't known for churning out NFL talent, a couple Cyclones will hear their names called soon.
Kamari Cotton-Moya is a promising safety, while Allen Lazard is a rising star at receiver. Plus, at 6'5", he has no problem going up for catches.
Lazard made his presence felt with 45 catches, 593 yards and three touchdowns as a freshman. He increased those numbers to 56, 807 and six, respectively, last season.
The smart move might be for Lazard to return for 2017, but he's certainly on the radar already.
Kansas
20 of 65
Fish Smithson, S
Similarly, the Jayhawks aren't regularly sending talent to the NFL. With that being said, their two best active players—and best prospect—roam the secondary.
Fish Smithson led the Kansas defense with 111 tackles last season, chipping in three pass breakups, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. He collected 49 stops as a sophomore.
The 5'11", 190-pounder earned second-team All-Big 12 honors and enters the 2016 campaign as NFLDraftScout.com's No. 4 free safety (via CBS Sports).
Kansas State
21 of 65
Elijah Lee, OLB
Bill Snyder has built an average yet consistent program that develops a respectable NFL player every couple years. That's a gentle way of saying the pickings are slim in 2017.
Kansas State's draft hopes center on Elijah Lee, a 6'3", 218-pound linebacker. The second-team All-Big 12 member recorded 80 tackles—including 7.5 for loss and five sacks—and three interceptions.
Granted, the junior likely isn't feeling much pressure to declare early. Lee might lead the Wildcats defense for two more seasons.
Kentucky
22 of 65
Denzil Ware, DE/OLB
Barring a jaw-dropping season, the prudent decision (from an outside perspective) is for Denzil Ware to stay at Kentucky.
After redshirting in 2014, Ware managed 39 tackles with 5.5 for loss and one sack last year. Although he's a top returning contributor, Ware doesn't consider himself a veteran.
"I still got a lot to learn," he said, per Jon Hale of the Courier-Journal. "When you become a veteran that means you know everything. There's no mistakes, no nothing. I'm far from that."
Don't expect Ware to bolt for the NFL, but be sure to remember his name for a future draft.
Louisville
23 of 65
Devonte Fields, DE/OLB
Although off-field concerns will place a red flag on Devonte Fields' scouting report, he'll be focused on bringing down quarterbacks.
During his lone season at TCU, Fields registered 18.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. Last year for Louisville, he had 22.5 tackles for loss—the third-highest mark in the Football Bowl Subdivision—and 11 sacks.
There's no doubt Fields possesses first-round talent, but the edge-rusher will only get selected on Day 1 if he stays out of trouble.
LSU
24 of 65
Leonard Fournette, RB
Every discussion about top 2017 draft prospects must start with Leonard Fournette. Running backs are no longer first-round fixtures, but the LSU bulldozer is arguably a once-in-a-decade talent.
Fournette compiled 1,786 all-purpose yards and 11 total touchdowns in 2014. As a sophomore, he averaged an FBS-leading 162.8 rushing yards, accruing 1,953 in 12 games and scoring 22 touchdowns.
Miller ranks Fournette as the No. 1 player. He's a definite first-round pick. The only question for next year's draft is how quickly Fournette gets tabbed.
Maryland
25 of 65
Will Likely, CB
Roman Braglio is an interesting player to watch—especially with defensive minds D.J. Durkin and Mike London now at Maryland—but Will Likely is the established prospect.
In 2015, the cornerback collected 44 tackles, 11 pass breakups and three forced fumbles. Likely also returned two punts for touchdowns, notching an 18.2-yard average that was second-best in the FBS. He added a kickoff-return score.
Likely's 5'7", 175-pound frame is a significant negative. However, he has seven career interceptions and tremendous versatility, so Likely is absolutely an NFL-worthy player.
Miami
26 of 65
Brad Kaaya, QB
Hopefully for Miami, the transition from James Coley to Mark Richt is as beneficial for Brad Kaaya as expected. Richt has a history of developing quality gunslingers.
Kaaya is an unfinished but tremendously appealing prospect. He won the starting job as a summer-arriving true freshman, then tossed just five interceptions as a sophomore.
The upcoming season will be a useful test for Kaaya, who doesn't have many weapons other than Stacy Coley, David Njoku and maybe Braxton Berrios. Kaaya can prove he's capable of leading an offense in the right system and back up his top-five billing.
Michigan
27 of 65
Jabrill Peppers, S/CB/LB
What position will Jabrill Peppers play in the NFL? Safety is the probable answer, but Michigan's Swiss Army knife will have experience just about everywhere.
An outside corner, strong safety and nickelback last season, Peppers tallied 45 stops with 5.5 tackles for loss and broke up 10 passes. He returned kicks and punts—averaging 27.9 and 11.4 yards, respectively—and also scored two rushing touchdowns.
Peppers will be a linebacker in 2016 and might have an expanded role offensively, considering he wasn't a factor there until the latter half of 2015. No matter where he plays, Peppers is a first-round prospect.
Michigan State
28 of 65
Malik McDowell, DL
Though the Spartans lost a good chunk of their team leaders, Malik McDowell is capable of carrying the roster. Michigan State has no plans of limiting him.
"He will play everywhere, that's for sure," defensive line coach Ron Burton said, according to Joe Rexrode of the Detroit Free Press. "No maybes. He will play everywhere."
A 6'6", 280-pounder, McDowell had 13 tackles for loss with 4.5 sacks, eight quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and a pick-six in 2015.
Jump on the 2016 hype train before it leaves the station.
Minnesota
29 of 65
Jonah Pirsig, OT
You can't teach size.
Jonah Pirsig is a 6'9", 316-pound offensive lineman who has plenty of experience. He's appeared in 32 games, logging 20 starts—mostly at right tackle but with four on the left.
According to ESPN.com's Josh Moyer, Minnesota coach Tracy Claeys called Pirsig the spring's offensive MVP, which bodes well for his proverbial stock. NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) considers Pirsig the 11th-best tackle prospect, but that could change soon.
Mississippi State
30 of 65
Fred Ross, WR
He isn't the No. 1 receiver in the class, but Fred Ross will probably finish 2016 as a top-five or top-10 talent at the position.
Dak Prescott's departure will hurt. Last season, the duo connected 88 times for 1,007 yards and five touchdowns. Ross tacked on one touchdown both as a punt returner and rusher.
The 6'2", 207-pounder is an electric playmaker with outstanding agility and vision. NFL teams can always find a place for someone like Ross on the roster.
Missouri
31 of 65
Charles Harris, DE/OLB
Another member of the deep edge-rushing class, Charles Harris was a constant presence in opponent's backfields last season.
The second-team All-SEC honoree notched 18.5 tackles for loss, which only trailed Texas A&M standout Myles Garrett. Harris accumulated seven sacks and 10 quarterback hurries.
Harris' former position coach, Craig Kuligowski, departed for Miami. That shouldn't be overlooked because Missouri under his tutelage has recently sent a handful of superb pass-rushers to the NFL. But Harris has the training to continue excelling in Columbia.
Nebraska
32 of 65
Sam Foltz, P
While Josh Banderas, Nate Gerry or Jordan Westerkamp may be picked first, Sam Foltz has the best chance to immediately start in the NFL.
Yes, Foltz is a punter.
Heading into his fourth season as a starter, Foltz owns a career average of 42.6 yards per attempt. He posted a career-best 44.2-yard clip and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2015.
Not many specialists hear their names called during the draft, but Foltz is trending toward receiving that honor.
North Carolina
33 of 65
Caleb Peterson, OG
North Carolina boasts a trio of receivers and defensive backs who should garner NFL attention, but Caleb Peterson leads UNC's charge in the 2017 draft, as well as the program itself.
According to Paige Hopkins of Inside Carolina, head coach Larry Fedora said Peterson has "probably come farther than anybody" and is now considered a team leader.
NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) ranks Peterson—a three-year starter—as the No. 3 guard prospect. He was a second-team All-ACC lineman last season.
North Carolina State
34 of 65
B.J. Hill, DT
Most of the defensive linemen mentioned shoot off the edge. Finally, an interior player is on the board.
In North Carolina State's case, this is a toss-up between two defensive tackles. Kentavius Street and B.J. Hill are key factors up front, but the latter has a slight lead for now.
Hill amassed 50 total tackles with 11 for loss and 3.5 sacks last season. He added five quarterbacks hurries, three pass breakups and even blocked a kick.
Northwestern
35 of 65
Anthony Walker, LB
The entire nation might not be familiar with Anthony Walker, but the Big Ten knows all about the Northwestern linebacker. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald sees greatness in Walker.
"I don't usually make statements (like this), but I think he's got the opportunity to be the best we've ever had here," Fitzgerald said, per Lee Barfknecht of the Omaha World-Herald. And we've had some pretty good linebackers over the years."
As a sophomore, Walker registered 120 tackles—recording 20.5 for loss and four sacks—four pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and an interception.
Notre Dame
36 of 65
Mike McGlinchey, OT
Notre Dame has a chance for two straight drafts with its left tackle getting selected in the first round.
Mike McGlinchey has moved from the right edge, where he started all 13 games last season. The 6'7", 310-pound McGlinchey is confident he's ready to replace 2016's No. 6 pick, Ronnie Stanley.
"I think I've put myself in a position to have guys start trusting me a little bit and seeing that how I do things is just as good as anybody else who has done it before me," McGlinchey said, per Tim Prister of Irish Illustrated.com.
Ohio State
37 of 65
Raekwon McMillan, LB
Seven of Ohio State's top 10 tacklers departed for the NFL, but the leader—Raekwon McMillan—had no choice but to stay.
The true sophomore piled up 119 total stops, managing four behind the line of scrimmage and 1.5 sacks. He had five quarterback hurries and four pass breakups.
McMillan is as reliable a tacker as you'll find in college football. That prowess has helped the 6'2", 240-pounder gain first-round recognition, starting off Miller's mock drafts at No. 7 overall.
Oklahoma
38 of 65
Charles Walker, DT
Oklahoma has an absolutely loaded group of 2017 prospects. If your preference lies somewhere other than Charles Walker, there's likely an excellent argument.
But his absence in the College Football Playoff showed how much a difference his presence makes. Clemson averaged 5.4 yards per carry en route to a 37-17 victory. Otherwise, the Sooners allowed an average of just 3.6 last season.
NFLDraftScout.com's third-best defensive tackle in the 2018 class (via CBS Sports), Walker notched 36 total tackles, 10 for loss and six sacks.
Oklahoma State
39 of 65
Mason Rudolph, QB
Theoretically, Mason Rudolph will have the quarterback spot to himself this year. He ceded goal-line duties to J.W. Walsh, which, while sub-optimal, was effective.
Walsh used up his eligibility, though, so Rudolph will command an offense loaded with returning talent on the line and at skill positions. He threw for 3,770 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2015.
Rudolph isn't quite a first-round prospect, but an efficient year could solidify his place in that discussion.
Ole Miss
40 of 65
Chad Kelly, QB
The buzzword "character issues" will follow Chad Kelly. The quarterback brought that on himself, but he's working to change it.
ESPN's Edward Aschoff wrote, "To many outside of his close-knit, protective Ole Miss family, [Kelly is] the hothead who got kicked out of Clemson for a series of incidents, including arguing with coaches over not going for it on fourth down of the spring game."
However, Kelly's first season in Oxford was absolutely a success. He accumulated 4,042 yards and 31 touchdowns through the air, running for 500 yards and 10 scores.
With another year like that, Kelly will be a first-round pick.
Oregon
41 of 65
Royce Freeman, RB
The year of the running back—and subsequent testing of their NFL draft value—continues with Oregon's Royce Freeman.
Listed at 5'11" and 230 pounds, he's an ideal spread-offense back—small enough to maneuver through the holes but with enough bulk to run over a defender at the line.
Freeman scampered for 1,836 yards and 17 touchdowns and earned third-team All-American honors. He tacked on 26 receptions, 348 yards and two more scores.
Oregon State
42 of 65
Sean Harlow, OT
A spot that would've been reserved for Rommel Mageo needs a new occupant. It's not easy to find a replacement.
However, Oregon State is looking forward to the return of Sean Harlow, whose junior campaign ended in late October because of a right ankle injury. He had started 28 consecutive games at tackle, including 14 on the right and left side.
NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) pegs Harlow as the No. 14 guard prospect, which is likely the product of him being a mere 6'4".
Penn State
43 of 65
Chris Godwin, WR
Age and injury history keep Nyeem Wartman-White from grabbing Penn State's top spot. Instead, Chris Godwin snatches the standing because of his upside.
Following a relatively quiet freshman season, Godwin broke out in 2015. He caught 69 passes for 1,101 yards and five touchdowns, surpassing the 100-yard mark in five of the final seven games.
Godwin leads a receiving corps that includes two other potential NFL players, DaeSean Hamilton and Saeed Blacknall. Each prospect has two years of eligibility remaining.
Pittsburgh
44 of 65
Adam Bisnowaty, OT
Talent isn't a question for Adam Bisnowaty. But will he actually stay healthy in 2016?
Bisnowaty surged into the lineup as a redshirt freshman. Since then, the 6'6", 300-pounder has started 30 contests at left tackle. Ankle and back injuries have cost Bisnowaty seven games, though.
Still, NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) lists Bisnowaty No. 4 overall of 2017's offensive tackles, ahead of names like Skipper, Pirsig and Moore.
Purdue
45 of 65
Jake Replogle, DT
Despite consistent mediocrity at Purdue, the draft has included a Boilermakers player every year since 1947 except in 1994.
Jake Replogle may help that impressive trend continue.
The 6'5", 294-pound defensive tackle notched 60 combined tackles with 14 for loss and two sacks last season, building on a 2014 season of 41, 11 and 3.5, respectively. Replogle also managed three quarterback hurries, two pass breakups and a blocked kick.
Rutgers
46 of 65
Kemoko Turay, DE
Expectations soared for Kemoko Turay after he collected 7.5 sacks, four quarterback hurries and a stunning three blocked kicks as a true freshman.
But injuries derailed his sophomore campaign. Turay underwent offseason shoulder surgery, too.
NFL teams will monitor the explosive 6'5", 240-pound edge-rusher, particularly because Turay has only played football since his senior year of high school. He is nowhere close to reaching his potential.
South Carolina
47 of 65
Skai Moore, LB
Skai Moore has called linebacker home for three years, but new head coach Will Muschamp might give the senior time at safety.
"When we're in our regular package, he may be able to play some safety and be able to increase his role as far as playing in space," Muschamp said, according to Josh Kendall of the State. "He's got a pretty wide skill set."
It's a safe bet Moore will produce at either spot. Through three years at South Carolina, he's racked up 260 tackles—notching 12.5 for loss with 3.5 sacks—and 11 interceptions.
Stanford
48 of 65
Christian McCaffrey, RB
Perhaps Christian McCaffrey can become everything the NFL thought it had in Reggie Bush.
The runner-up in 2015 Heisman Trophy voting, McCaffrey set an FBS single-season record with 3,864 all-purpose yards. Including two passing touchdowns, he scored 17 times last season while ceding goal-line touches to Remound Wright.
McCaffrey's versatility should result in a late Day 1 or early Day 2 selection. However, an injury in 2016 would spark a debate wondering if the college touches are starting to wear on him.
Whether that's a fair question doesn't really matter. It will happen if McCaffrey gets hurt—something Bush couldn't avoid throughout his NFL days.
Syracuse
49 of 65
Gabe Sherrod, DE
Wide receivers Brisly Estime and Steve Ishmael are names to watch in Dino Babers' new offensive system, but Syracuse's best prospect hasn't played a down for the program.
Delaware State transfer Gabe Sherrod will attempt to translate his outstanding production to the FBS. Last season, Sherrod tallied 64 total stops, 25 tackles for loss and eight sacks in just 11 games.
Sherrod boosts a defensive line that returns a majority of its disruption anyway. He could skyrocket on draft boards this fall.
TCU
50 of 65
Josh Carraway, DE/OLB
Injuries plagued the TCU defense in 2015, but Josh Carraway was a force for the entire season.
Carraway recorded 47 total tackles, earning 11.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks. He added nine more quarterback hurries and a pair of fumble recoveries—returning one for a touchdown.
The 6'4", 250-pounder was a first-team All-Big 12 member last year. Carraway enters the 2016 campaign as NFLDraftScout.com's fourth-best outside linebacker (via CBS Sports), meaning he's projected as a 3-4 edge-rusher.
Tennessee
51 of 65
Derek Barnett, DE
Tennessee had a grand total of zero draft picks in 2016, but Derek Barnett—assuming he declares early—will put the program on the board right away.
Both as a freshman and sophomore, Barnett registered exactly 10 sacks. The two-time second-team All-SEC member has 141 total stops, 33 tackles for loss and 15 quarterback hurries in college.
Barnett and cornerback Cameron Sutton—also a first-round talent—headline a formidable Volunteers defense.
Texas
52 of 65
Kent Perkins, OL
For one more season, Texas will feel the effects of the Mack Brown era when the NFL draft rolls around.
Like 2016, the Longhorns likely must wait until Day 3. The Indianapolis Colts selected Hassan Ridgeway in the fourth round. Kent Perkins could be the team's representative next year.
Perkins has split time between tackle and guard on the right side, logging a total of 24 starts. He's the No. 18 guard prospect, per NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports).
Texas A&M
53 of 65
Myles Garrett, DE/OLB
Depending on which NFL franchise ultimately holds the No. 1 selection, Garrett could be the choice.
"He's the best player in the country," a scout said of the then-sophomore in October 2015 to NFL Media's Albert Breer. "He's absolutely explosive off the football."
Garrett has punished opponents for 112 tackles, tallying 34 for loss and 24 sacks. He's also accumulated 20 quarterback hurries, five forced fumbles, two blocked kicks and an interception.
Texas Tech
54 of 65
Patrick Mahomes, QB
Since Texas Tech had an absolutely dreadful defense last season, Patrick Mahomes seized an opportunity to fill box scores.
The gunslinger threw for 4,653 yards and 36 touchdowns compared to 15 interceptions, adding 456 rushing yards and 10 scores.
"He can extend plays as well as I've ever seen," head coach Kliff Kingsbury said, per ESPN's Jake Trotter. "And his accuracy when plays break down, as far as a thrower, moving around, throwing from different angles. ... Pat's the best I've ever been around."
Mahomes was must-watch early-Saturday television in 2015. Don't miss the scoreboard destroyer this year.
UCLA
55 of 65
Eddie Vanderdoes, DT
Unfortunately for Myles Jack, he never had an in-game chance to prove he was healthy. Eddie Vanderdoes should get that opportunity in 2016.
He tore the ACL in his right knee during the regular-season opener last season. The defensive tackle already had eight stops.
If the first game of 2015 was any indication, Vanderdoes will match former teammate Kenny Clark and be a first-round selection.
USC
56 of 65
JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR
While Zach Banner and Adoree' Jackson may join JuJu Smith-Schuster on Day 1, he's the undisputed prize at receiver.
A 6'2", 215-pounder, Smith-Schuster was a second-team All-American in 2015. He had 89 catches—52 above Steven Mitchell Jr., the closest teammate—for 1,454 yards and 10 touchdowns.
USC wants to spread the targets out more this season, but that might be easier said than done with Smith-Schuster tearing apart secondaries for a new quarterback.
Utah
57 of 65
Lowell Lotulelei, DT
The brother of 2013 first-round pick Star, Lowell Lotulelei is carrying on the family's tradition of excellence at Utah.
As a true freshman, Lotulelei was a member of USA Today's Freshman All-American team alongside Garrett and Barnett. Last season, Lotulelei earned first-team All-Pac 12 honors.
Defensive tackles typically don't compile gaudy numbers, and Lotulelei is no exception. Rather, his impact is measured in commanding multiple blockers and freeing teammates for tackles.
Vanderbilt
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Zach Cunningham, LB
Although Vanderbilt managed just a 4-8 record in 2015, Zach Cunningham led the nation's No. 22 scoring defense.
He paced the Commodores with 103 total stops, 39 more than No. 2 tackler Darreon Herring (64). Cunningham gathered 16.5 tackles for loss with 4.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and three pass breakups.
NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) rates Cunningham as the third-best inside linebacker in the 2018 class, only trailing McMillan and Walker.
Virginia
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Quin Blanding, S
Virginia's recent mediocrity has hidden Quin Blanding from the national landscape, but he's a menace.
In a good way, of course. Blanding backed up his 5-star billing and amassed 123 tackles as a true freshman, then followed up that campaign with 115 stops.
Blanding is NFLDraftScout's No. 3 prospect at strong safety (via CBS Sports), though he'll play free safety for the Wahoos in 2016.
Virginia Tech
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Bucky Hodges, TE
Justin Fuente's offensive system is a perfect fit for Bucky Hodges, who isn't really an in-line blocker anyway. He's best suited as a mismatch creator split wide.
In both of his first two seasons, Hodges secured at least 40 receptions, tallied 500 yards and scored six touchdowns. The 6'7" tight end is Virginia Tech's primary red-zone target.
Hodges is clearly the No. 1 tight end in the 2018 class but follows Jake Butt and O.J. Howard in the current draft-eligible group.
Wake Forest
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Cam Serigne, TE
Wake Forest desperately needs a reliable quarterback for tight end Cam Serigne, an underrated standout at tight end.
"He's a really good player," head coach Dave Clawson said, according to Dan Collins of the Winston-Salem Journal. "He's smart. He's tough. He's got great ball skills. He's a great route runner. I mean, you'd take 100 Cam Serignes."
Serigne has 100 receptions, 1,093 yards and nine touchdowns through two seasons.
Washington
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Budda Baker, S
While teammate Sidney Jones isn't far behind at cornerback, Budda Baker could be the top draft-eligible safety in 2017.
Like last season, the possibility of offensive reps remains. According to Adam Jude of the Seattle Times, Baker practiced with Washington's thin receiving unit.
Whether that happens this year—and it didn't in 2015—the first-team All-Pac-12 safety will be an integral piece of the defense. He has 129 career tackles, 13 pass breakups and three picks.
Washington State
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Luke Falk, QB
As long as Luke Falk's arm doesn't fall off, the Washington State quarterback will receive Day 1 consideration.
In 2015, he averaged 53.7 pass attempts—almost 10 more per game than Mahomes (44.1) at No. 2. Falk threw for 4,561 yards and 38 touchdowns in Mike Leach's Air Raid.
Similar to Rudolph, Falk isn't yet a first-round prospect. But he's going to obliterate box scores, so NFL scouting departments will closely track Falk's development.
West Virginia
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Tyler Orlosky, C
Tyler Orlosky explored the possibility of skipping his final season of eligibility, but the response from NFL evaluators solidified his decision to stay at West Virginia.
"I pretty much had the same view as they had. We probably agreed on 95 to 98 percent of it," Orlosky said, per Allan Taylor of MetroNews. "They told me that in their opinion I should stay in school, and I shared the same opinion. I had no intention of leaving."
A two-year starter at center, he's logged 2,389 offensive snaps, according to the school. NFLDraftScout.com (via CBS Sports) ranks Orlosky as the No. 4 center prospect.
Wisconsin
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Dan Voltz, C
What? Did you expect a skill position player from Wisconsin?
Dan Voltz will give the program its 11th offensive lineman drafted since 2007. Like other prospects, though, his injury history—unspecified upper-body surgery (2013 season), broken left leg (2014), right ACL (2015)—is a glaring issue.
Nevertheless, Voltz will stick around the top of the rankings at center—especially if he completes 2016 without missing time.
All recruiting information via 247Sports. Stats from cfbstats.com or B/R research. Quotes obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow Bleacher Report CFB Writer David Kenyon on Twitter @Kenyon19_BR.
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