2021 NFL Draft: 3 prospects to watch in Syracuse vs Boston College

Hunter Long, TE, Boston College

Hunter Long’s draft stock seems to be soaring as the 2020 season goes on. Early on, he was not being talked about as one of the top tight end prospects in the 2021 NFL draft. Now, he is looking like a top 100 player through seven games. He has already surpassed his 2019 total in catches and touchdowns.

Long’s yards per catch numbers have dipped, but that may be a good thing. In 2019, most of his catches were down the field. Now in 2020, he is a more complete pass catcher, while still being a great down the field threat. You wish his red zone productivity would be better, but Boston College is more likely to run behind their mammoth offensive line in the red area than throw it.

We may get to see a great matchup in this game between Long and Melifonwu. Melifonwu has the athleticism advantage, but this will certainly be a matchup worth keeping an eye on. If Melifonwu continues to play cornerback, this may not come to fruition. However, if they want to use him as a movable piece, he will see plenty of reps against the big tight end.

This game, while not having as many draft prospects as Florida vs Georgia, still has some guys to keep your eye on. Taj Harris, a receiver for Syracuse, has plenty of potential, but may not declare for the 2021 NFL draft. The entire Boston College offensive line is also worth watching.