Best 2017 NFL Draft prospects from biggest Bowl Games
By Tyler Brooke
Peach Bowl (Dec. 31, 3 pm ET on ESPN): Washington vs Alabama
Washington Huskies: John Ross, WR
Corey Davis and Mike Williams are getting a lot of attention as potential No. 1 receivers in this draft class, but I genuinely feel like Washington’s John Ross belongs in that conversation. He’s a different type of receiver compared to the other two, but that doesn’t make him any less dangerous.
Ross plays the receiver position like he’s a point guard in a basketball game, showing off some absurd footwork and speed to burn by even the most talented defensive backs. He has soft hands and can make some eye-opening grabs from time to time, but he’s even more dangerous after the catch because of his elusiveness. He’s not the physical red zone threat that Williams and Davis are, but Ross has Pro Bowl potential written all over him.
Other players to watch: WR Dante Pettis, CB Sidney Jones, S Budda Baker, DT Vita Vea, LB Azeem Victor, LB Psalm Wooching
Alabama Crimson Tide: Reuben Foster, LB
I could talk about pretty much any starter for the Alabama Crimson Tide here, but I wanted to single out Reuben Foster. The Alabama linebacker has been one of the most exciting players to watch on tape, and he’ll play a major role for the Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff semifinal.
Foster jumps out on tape with his ability to level the ball carrier on a regular basis. He has elite instincts and the size (6’1” and 245 pounds) to play the position in the NFL. He’s still improving as a blitzer, but he’s more than capable of meeting the ball carrier at the line of scrimmage or dropping back in coverage. With the right team and coaching, Foster could develop into one of the best linebackers in the NFL.
Other players to watch: DL Jonathan Allen, CB Marlon Humphrey, EDGE Ryan Anderson, EDGE Tim Williams, DL Dalvin Tomlinson, OT Cam Robinson, TE O.J. Howard