The hardest players to evaluate in the 2024 NFL Draft
Apr 11, 2024
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Robert Mays, Nate Tice, and Dane Brugler discuss the challenges of evaluating players in the 2024 NFL Draft, from running backs to defensive linemen. They provide insights into The Beast, Dane's comprehensive draft guide. Topics include the complexities of assessing players, in-depth analysis of draft prospects, evaluating offensive tackles, versatility of players, debates on Clemson player Rook and Mike Hall Jr., evaluating linebackers and safeties, and analysis of top prospects.
Robinson's versatility and solid performances raise doubts and excitement about his edge rush potential.
McCormack's transition to guard demonstrates his adaptability and promising future in the NFL.
BB's reliable play and adaptability position him as a valuable asset despite physical limitations.
Deep dives
Darius Robinson: Overcoming Tweener Concerns to Impress at Edge
Darius Robinson, a standout from Missouri, has sparked discussions due to his unique profile. While Dane values him at 35th overall for shifting from defensive tackle to edge rusher and excelling with power and hands, Nate's concerns at 62nd stem from his tweener status and limited pass-rushing upside. Robinson's intriguing development from last year and strong performances raise questions about his potential impact on the edge.
Mason McCormack: A Compelling Case for Guard or Center
Mason McCormack from South Dakota State captivates with his physicality and intangible strengths, earning recognition despite compromising arm length. Nate admires his guard potential, noting his smart shifts across positions, while Dane weighs his guard or center versatility and robust performance in-a-game. McCormack's evolving role from tackle to guard spotlights his versatile skill set and points towards a promising career.
Cooper BB: Evaluating the Guard's Exceptional Tape and Arm Length
Cooper BB's placement at 46th by Nate reflects his admiration for BB's solid tape despite concerns about short arm length. Dane resonates with Nate's views, underscoring BB's potential as a dependable starter at guard or center with his superior athleticism and skill set. BB's exceptional play, despite physical limitations, positions him as a key player with the potential to excel in the NFL.
Evaluation of Cole Bishop
Cole Bishop from Utah is praised for his range and intelligence but falls short in making impact plays on the football field. Despite testing well with good athleticism, his lack of big plays and trap-setting ability raise concerns about his overall impact as a safety.
Concerns About Kaitlyn Bullock
Kaitlyn Bullock from USC showcases great range similar to Trevor Morrig, but his tackling issues and inconsistent play raise red flags. While his intelligence and play style are promising, his inability to consistently secure tackles and overzealousness on field-reading warrant caution.
Cameron Kitchen's Profile
Cameron Kitchen displays high intelligence and aggression but lacks athleticism and recovery ability on the field. Despite his ability to read plays well and approach aggressively, his limitations as a safety are apparent, making him a boom-or-bust prospect in need of a defined role for success.
Robert Mays, Nate Tice and Dane Brugler chat about which players in this year’s NFL draft class are the hardest to evaluate, from running backs to defensive linemen to defensive backs. They also talk about the work that went into The Beast, the annual guide to the draft that Dane compiles for The Athletic - now available on The Athletic’s site.