College football bowl season is under way. If you are like most NFL fans, you know some players on the top college football teams but that is about it. As a Bears fan, my NFL season has been over for weeks so I’ve gotten an early start on my scouting for next year’s NFL draft.
I love watching football even if it’s games I have no rooting interest in, so over the holidays I end watching a lot of random bowl games. One thing that makes the bowl games more interesting for me is to keep an eye on players who will be drafted next season. This year I will breaking down the players who have a shot at getting drafted for most of the remaining bowl games. If you end up watching the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, here are some players to keep an eye on.
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Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: Houston vs Pittsburgh
When: Jan. 2nd, Noon (EST)
Houston
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WR Deontay Greenberry, JR #3 (6’3 | 200 | 4.54)
Scouting report – The first 5-star recruit in Houston history, who disappointed as a junior with 68 receptions for 756 yards and 4 TDs. It wasn’t a terrible year by most standards but after Greenberry’s 82 catch, 1,202 yard, 11 TD sophomore season, more was expected. Inconsistency from the QB position had a lot to due with the significant dip in his numbers, but Greenberry didn’t show much improvement in his route-running or effort level either. Greenberry has a big frame that he uses well to box defenders away from the ball, but hasn’t shown much focus on his route-running instead relying on natural talent. His best option would be to stay in school and refine his technique, but Greenberry has enough potential that some team will roll the dice on him in the middle rounds if he declares for the draft.
Projection: 3rd-5th round
DT Joey Mbu, SR #92 (6’3 | 312 | 5.19)
Scouting report – Good size and athleticism for a DT and has improved steadily every season. Mbu generates occasional pressure inside with a quick first step and impressive strength. His technique is very raw, but Mbu has a lot of potential and is a high-upside developmental pick on day 3.
Projection: 5th-6th r0und
Pittsburgh
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OT T.J. Clemmings, SR #68 (6’5 | 305 | 5.14)
Scouting report – Made huge improvements in only his 2nd year as a starting LT after beginning his college career as a defensive end. Clemmings has already become a road-grading run blocker, he opened massive holes all season for bruising RB James Conner. He has above average strength, is very aggressive, and has NFL athleticism. Clemmings’ pass blocking improved significantly compared to 2013 and if he can make a similar jump next year, Clemmings could be a starting NFL left tackle by his 2nd year in the league.
Projection: 1st-2nd round