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There are two main data points in the world of NFL draft analysts: mock drafts and big boards.
The former is more fun, especially for NFL fans. It offers an actual prediction about each of the first-round draft picks.
But the latter often is more telling and correct. A draft analyst doesn’t have to account for the needs of a particular team or any surprise brought on by a trade or a variation in a single general manager’s draft board that could cause a domino affect.
A big board is simply a ranking of the best NFL prospects. The latest version put together by ESPN’s Todd McShay runs 32 spots long.
He released his newest update Wednesday, and added Mississippi State defensive tackle Chris Jones.
“Jones has flashed on the little bit of tape of him that we have been able to study. His measurables are outstanding,” McShay wrote.
“He needs to play with more consistent leverage, but he’s strong at the point of attack. He can be a highly disruptive interior player — in both facets, but against the run more so than the pass.”
Overall, McShay included 10 SEC players in his list of the 32 best NFL prospects:
3. OT Laremy Tunsil, Ole Miss
4. CB Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida
10. ILB Reggie Ragland, Alabama
12. DT A’Shawn Robinson, Alabama
16. DL Jarran Reed, Alabama
17. WR Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss
19. DT Robert Nkemdiche, Ole Miss
20. TE Hunter Henry, Arkansas
29. OLB Leonard Floyd, Georgia
31. DT Chris Jones, Mississippi State
An itinerant journalist, Christopher has moved between states 11 times in seven years. Formally an injury-prone Division I 800-meter specialist, he now wanders the Rockies in search of high peaks.
