2018 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 25 Prospects
By Jon Dove
We are getting down to the final weeks before the NFL Draft and that means it’s time to put the finishing touches on my 2018 NFL Draft Big Board.
This updated version of my 2018 NFL Draft Big Board features several new additions and changes. I’m going to release my top-100 players in groupings of 25 players. This article looks at my top-25 prospects.
1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
Barkley is a difference maker and should be the offensive focal point of any team that selects him.
2. Bradley Chubb, Edge, NC State
Chubb is a well-rounded defender who will wreak havoc in the offensive backfield.
3. Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB, Alabama
Fitzpatrick is a playmaker who is always around the football. He fits at either cornerback or safety at the next level.
4. Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA
Rosen is a heady quarterback prospect who features a smooth throwing motion.
5. Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming
Allen features a big arm and the physical talent to be an elite player in the NFL. However, he will need some time to fully develop.
6. Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Virginia Tech
Edmunds is a sideline to sideline defender who is only scratching the surface of his ability.
7. Sam Darnold, QB, USC
Darnold is a competitor who also features all the physical tools needed to succeed at the next level.
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8. Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama
Evans is a versatile defender who can lineup as a traditional linebacker and also work off the edges.
9. Derwin James, S, Florida State
James is a playmaker from his safety position and capable of working in the box and in deep coverage.
10. Vita Vea, DT, Washington
Vea is a massive defensive tackle prospect who will occupy blockers but also generate some pressure.
11. Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia
Smith is a fiery defender who flies all over the field.
12. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
Ridley didn’t blow people away at the combine, but he’s a smooth athlete and an accomplished route runner.
13. Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame
McGlinchey is a steady player who comes with tons of experience. He has the ability to play either left or right tackle.
14. Chukwuma Okorafor, OT, Western Michigan
I might be a little high on Okorafor, but this is an athletic offensive tackle with the potential to be the top tackle in this draft.
15. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU
Guice is a hard-nosed player capable of picking up a ton of yards after contact.
16. Quenton Nelson, OG, Notre Dame
Nelson is a plug and play prospect who will immediately upgrade the talent in the offensive line room.
17. Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama
Harrison features excellent measurables and has a great feel for the position.
18. Jaire Alexander, CB, Louisville
Alexander is an explosive athlete with the ability to create turnovers.
19. Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State
Ward’s size is a little concerning, but there’s no denying his raw coverage skills.
20. Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M
Kirk is is a quick-twitch athlete who is one of the better route runners in this draft class.
21. James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State
Washington is someone who always fights for the football and wins in contested situations.
22. Sam Hubbard, Edge, Ohio State
Hubbard is a strong pass rushing prospect capable of also helping in the running game.
23. Connor Williams, OL, Texas
Williams has the athleticism to be a top-flight offensive tackle, but also flashes the ability to succeed at guard.
24. Will Hernandez, OG, UTEP
Hernandez is ready to play from day one and is capable of creating a lot of running room.
25. Donte Jackson, CB, LSU
Jackson is known for his speed, but this is a defender who also has strong coverage skills.