NFL Draft: Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl
LSU
OT La’el Collins, SR # 70 (6’5 | 321 | 5.12)
Scouting report – Had a great 2013, but struggled a bit this year. Collins would have been a lock for the 1st round last year, but inconsistent play in 2014 has hurt his stock and raised questions that he might be a better fit at guard. He is a very aggressive blocker which is great in the run game, but has led to problems in pass pro. Despite his struggles this year, he looks like at worst a sure thing RT on his 2013 tape and has enough positive traits to sneak into the first round.
Projection: 1st-2nd round
SS Jalen Mills, JR #28 (6’1 | 189 | 4.48)
Scouting report – Versatile defensive back who has the size, speed and skill to play either corner or safety at the next level. Mills is a natural in coverage with good technique, ball skills, and instincts. He’s not a big hitter, but is active in run support and has good tackling technique in the open-field. Mills versatility, coverage skills, and potential to add weight should make him an early day 2 pick.
Projection: 2nd round
* UPDATE: Mills is returning to LSU for his senior season.
CB Jalen Collins, JR #32 (6’2 | 195 | 4.48)
Scouting report – Tall, aggressive corner who would be a good fit in a press scheme. Collins didn’t play off the ball often in college and his ability to cover in space is a question mark, though if he runs a sub 4.5 40 at the combine it will ease team’s concerns and could move him into the back of the first round.
Projection: 2nd round
OG Vadal Alexander, JR #74 (6’6 | 342 | 5.46)
Scouting report – Massive human and a road grader in the run game. Alexander has the size and athleticism to be a mauler at the next level, but will need to trim down a little to improve on his mobility. He’s so wide that he can slow up pass rushers just standing there, but he struggles with speed rushers. If Alexander comes back for his senior year and dedicates himself to conditioning, he could be a first round pick in 2016. If he comes out this year, he won’t fall past round 3 as he would be a great fit in a power run scheme and has tons of potential.
Projection: 2nd-3rd round
Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
DE Danielle Hunter, SR #94 (6’6 | 241 | 4.68)
Scouting report – Disappointing sack numbers the last two seasons, but they don’t accurately reflect Hunter’s contributions to the defense. He draws a lot of comparisons to the man he replaced in the Tigers defensive scheme, Barkevious Mingo. Hunter hasn’t gotten to the QB often, but has provided plenty of pressure, he plays the run well, and has a knack for deflecting passes. He also has a frame that looks like it could add weight which increases his potential. I’ve heard Hunter mentioned as high as the 2nd round, but I think his lack of traditional stats could drop him to the 3rd.
Projection: 2nd-3rd round
DE Jermauria Rasco, SR #59 (6’3 | 255 | 4.74)
Scouting report – Doesn’t possess the same athletic potential as his teammate Hunter, but has better pass rush moves and technique. Rasco hasn’t put up big sack totals, but generates consistent pressure on the QB and is solid in run support. He could be a useful 3-4 OLB in the pros, but will need to show the ability to contribute on special teams to lock up a day 3 selection.
Projection: 5th-7th round
RB Terrance Magee, SR #14 (5’9 | 218 | 4.57)
Scouting report – Squat back who keeps his pads low and is tough to bring down in traffic. Magee was part of a platoon with 2 other RBs, so his overall numbers aren’t that impressive but he has NFL talent. He’s a decent receiver out of the backfield and can block a bit. Pretty solid all-around RB who may have to stand out on special teams to make a roster, but has potential if he gets a chance.
Projection: 5th-7th round
RB Kenny Hilliard, SR #27 (6’0 | 233 | 4.63)
Scouting report – Between the tackles power back with a pretty good burst and some wiggle. Hilliard has a future as an NFL short yardage back.
Projection: 5th-7th round