10 Sleeper Picks for the 2016 NFL Draft
The following players are all guys I think will make an impact in the NFL over the next few years.
1) Kevin Byard, S, Middle Tennessee State
Lines secondary up and is assignment-oriented. Disciplined in zone coverage reading and responding to the quarterback’s eyes. Scans through route developments like a quarterback. Good awareness as single-high safety and rarely panics when faced with route combinations meant to create mistakes and indecision. Former receiver, with great ability to find the ball.
2) Tyler Higbee, TE, Western Kentucky
The senior’s hands are excellent, he can win at all levels of the field, he’s a dynamic red zone threat, and he’ll block all day if that is what is asked of him. Higbee can play flexed, in-line, or even line up in the backfield and be effective as a lead blocker. Creates matchup problems.
3) Maurice Canady, CB, Virginia
Can play Corner or safety, ability to play anywhere in the secondary makes him very valuable, throw in the fact he is an excellent special teams player and there is no doubt he makes an NFL roster.
4) C.J. Prosise, RB, Notre Dame
Injuries slowed him last year and lowered his draft stock, his versatility will make him a very valuable selection in this draft.
5) Kamalei Correa, EDGE, Boise State
Needs to become better technically, but when he does look out!
6) Mike Thomas, WR, Southern Mississippi
In terms of physical dimensions and playing style (not talent), this Michael Thomas evokes names like Isaac Bruce and Odell Beckham. And honestly, I think the talent is there for Thomas to evolve into a much better pro receiver than the volume of conversation around this Southern Miss product (which is next to zero).
7) Antonio Morrison, LB, Florida
He is a light athlete to quickly redirect and burst towards the play, bringing himself to balance on the move to finish in the open field.
Keeps his feet well to work off blocks and displays outstanding awareness to recognize things quickly and react to the play before the ball carrier can make a move. Will be a HUGE steal for somebody.
8) Kevin Hogan, QB, Stanford
Very poised underrated QB, reminds me of Kurt Cousins.
9) Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
Could be a game changer, but questions about his character abound.
10) Kenneth Farrow, RB, Houston
Great balance runs much bigger than his size would indicate, great forward lean. Great ability to run between the tackles.
