NFL prospects who need time to develop

Paxton Lynch QB Memphis

Lynch is a definite starter in the NFL down the road if put in the right scenario. He still will likely fall in the first round because of teams needs for QB’s. However if it was any other year, he’s a second round talent. One thing scouts love about the Memphis star, is his size. He has comparable height and weight to Pittsburgh’s Ben Roethlisberger. His footwork though has been a cause for concern. His arm is a solid aspect to his game; he does have pro-ready power to his throws. If he’s put on a team as a backup, he can eventually be a centerpiece to a roster.

Braxton Miller WR Ohio State

Miller will be put in the best position out of any player to succeed in the first round. (If he gets selected there, and I think he will) His work ethic, maturity and all-around drive will make him irresistible to GM’s around the league. However, he is still relatively new to the receiver position. Being a QB for so long will hurt him in the short term from being an elite receiver in the league. If he is put into a team as a 3 receiver or specialist, he will thrive for the short term. Anything higher, he may struggle to meet those expectations. His comparison to New England’s Julian Edelman is on point though. I do project him to be an elite player down the road.

Michael Thomas WR Ohio State

While his Buckeyes teammate Miller is the explosive wild card, Thomas is prototypical in every sense of the word. His size and hand eye coordination make him ideal in most situations. Thomas’ start and stop speed though will probably see him struggle in the short term against big time corners. He strikes me as a poor man’s Jermaine Kearse but with fewer responsibilities in the college level. He did only have two 100 yard receiving games. Kearse did turn into a reliable target in Seattle. I think Thomas will too—just keep your expectations in check.

Ryan Kelly C Alabama

Kelly is the best Center available this year for sure. This year truly is lacking though in coverage down the middle. The Crimson Tide alum has below average size for his position and he relied on his athletic ability to catapult him to the top of his position at the college level. In the NFL though, it takes ability as well as size to succeed in most cases. Presently Kelly only has one of those 2 aspects.