2016 NFL Draft Big Board: Post Week 1 Update
By Jon Dove
Sep 7, 2015; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones (12) rushes for a touchdown that was called back against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
12. Cardale Jones, QB, Ohio State
Jones has already cleared a major hurdle by earning Ohio State’s starting quarterback job. He little to no chance to come off the board early in the 2016 draft if he was a backup. However, Jones’ physical gifts are enough to make some NFL coaches and general managers fall in love even from the bench.
The physical skill set is present for Jones to develop into an elite NFL quarterback, but he still needs to develop his command of the position. Jones must learn to make better decisions, get the ball out quicker and read a defense. This is what evaluators will be watching all season.
In-depth Cardale Jones Scouting Report
11. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Elliott has a chance to make it two years in a row where a running back comes off the board within the first 15 picks. He’s a rare talent who can move the chains with both power and quickness. This is an every-down back who can stay on the field in passing situations thanks to his reliable hands and willingness as a blocker.
However, it’s Elliott’s ability to pound the ball between the tackles while also providing a home-run threat. The fact he has remained relatively healthy throughout his college career is another thing working in favor. Todd Gurley was the 10th pick in the draft despite working his way back from a knee injury.
Comparing Ezekiel Elliott to Todd Gurley
10. Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State
Cook has an opportunity this weekend to make a statement by helping Michigan State beat Oregon. There’s a lot of pressure on his shoulders because he’ll need to keep pace with Oregon’s high-scoring offense. A strong performance this weekend could really move him up draft boards.
This is a quarterback who has all the physical tools– strong throwing arm, athleticism and size. He has shown good accuracy to all parts of the field and routinely makes sound decisions. However, he needs to work on becoming a more consistent player and it starts with his foot work.
Cook tends to get sloppy with his feet which leads to inconsistent throws and ball placement.
In-depth Connor Cook Scouting Report
9.Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
Jack is arguably the most explosive prospect in this draft class, but his stock is hurt because of questions surrounding his size. He lacks the bulk most evaluators look for in a linebacker prospect. However, he has shown a more physical style of play so far this year which will help put the size concerns at ease.
It’s his explosiveness and ability to make plays sideline to sideline that makes him so valuable. He does a great job of reading his post-snap keys and racking up tackles for loss. Jack is a great coverage linebacker which is a skill set which is becoming increasingly more important in the NFL.
Next: No. 8 to No. 5