Early 2018 NFL Draft Man Crushes
By Jon Dove
It’s very early in the process, but I have already developed a man crush on several 2018 NFL Draft prospects.
Every year there are a handful of prospects that catch my eye and I rate higher than other evaluators. The 2018 NFL Draft has several prospects that have already peaked my interest. I’m at the beginning stages of the evaluation process and more players will be added to this list in the future.
The list below isn’t in any specific order, but just a list of the guys that are on my man crush list.
Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming
Allen is often mentioned as a potential No. 1 overall pick– and for good reason. He has the physical traits NFL evaluators look for in a franchise quarterback. It’s his combination of elite arm strength, good size and athleticism that turns heads.
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However, he is also quickly showing a natural feel for the position. Allen has a bit of a gunslinger mentality, but has the arm strength to make that work. I absolutely love how he isn’t afraid to attack the defense.
Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma State
Rudolph is a bit underrated despite having plenty of supporters. The reason he’s underrated is based on the fact that many see him as a raw prospect. This isn’t the case as he shows the ability to go through progressions, stretch the field and anticipate his throws.
He also has elite physical tools with elite arm strength, good size and solid movement skills.
Derrius Guice, RB, LSU
Guice is one of the hardest runners in college football. He’s someone who fights for inches on every carry. His effort is infectious and something that gets the juices flowing. Guice is also an explosive athlete who can easily change direction.
James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State
Washington is a hard-nosed receiver who attacks the football. He rarely loses in contested situation and more often than not makes the catch. This includes some really acrobatic plays where it appears he has no chance to make a play.
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Derrick Nnadi, DT, Florida State
Nnadi is a two-way player who holds up against the run and can pressure the quarterback. His low pad level makes it nearly impossible to move him off the line of scrimmage and provides him with leverage.
He has deceptive quickness that allows him to penetrate the pocket. However, most of his pressure comes from his ability to push the pocket. He has the making of a top-10 pick and disruptive defender.
Sam Hubbard, DL, Ohio State
Hubbard isn’t flashy but he gets the job done. He plays with a blend of power and quickness. Hubbard is someone who will routinely set the edge against the run and also generate pressure on the quarterback.