NFL Draft: Duck Commander Independence Bowl
Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
South Carolina
OG A.J. Cann, SR #50 (6’4. 311, 5.33)
Scouting report – One of the top guard prospects in this year’s draft. Cann is a team captain and 4-year starter who is a mauler in the run game. His pass protection was a weakness early in his college career, but improved significantly this season. Cann’s leadership, smarts, and run blocking ability will get him drafted sometime on day 2 and I think he will be a long-time NFL starter inside.
Projection: 2nd-3rd round
RB Mike Davis, SR #26 (5’9, 233, 4.55)
Scouting report – Powerful runner with a good burst and enough speed to break one if he gets to the 2nd level. Davis has the vision to find lanes inside, hits the hole with good pad level and is also a good receiver out of the backfield which is somewhat rare for a big back. He does have a few weaknesses though including nagging injuries, occasional fumbling issues and lazy pass blocking.
Projection: 3rd round
OT Corey Robinson, SR #53 (6’8, 344, 5.35)
Scouting report – Massive LT who will be a better fit on the right side in the NFL. Robinson is a mauling run blocker with good feet and athleticism for his size, but isn’t quick enough to handle elite speed rushers. Despite his problems with speedy DEs, guys with Robinson’s size and athleticism are rare. With some technique improvement Robinson could become a starting RT with plenty of upside.
Projection: 3rd-4th round
TE Rory Anderson, SR #81 (6’5, 227, 4.73)
Scouting report – Athletic receiving TE who hasn’t been used much by the Gamecocks. As a sophomore Anderson had 5 TDs and showed plenty of potential but only has 1 TD since. He is a crafty route runner with impressive body control and good hands. At just 227 pounds Anderson is going to struggle as a run blocker in the NFL, but he has been a surprisingly effective blocker in college showing good aggression and technique. Anderson is a sleeper day 3 prospect with considerable upside as a receiving threat.
Projection: 5th-6th round
* Anderson will miss the bowl game with a triceps injury