In the month of January there are many collegiate All-Star games such as the Reese’s Senior Bowl, the East-West Shrine Game and the FBS All Americans Tropical Bowl. For the collegiate athlete, these games begin to lay the important groundwork of improving their draft stock by catching the eyes of NFL Scouts. Those NFL representatives evaluate the intangibles of players that can help shape the landscape of their respective football teams.
Whether a franchise has many or just a few draft picks at their disposal, it’s imperative that they do the extensive homework that enables the decision-makers to ensure quality selections for their ball clubs.
Below are two players that should catch the attention of organizations in need. Both should garner strong consideration throughout the NFL Draft evaluation process as they possess the tools that could make an impact on one of the 32 NFL teams.
Two interesting draft prospects to keep an eye on are Buffalo QB Tyree Jackson (6’7” 245 lbs) and Pittsburgh DE Dewayne Hendrix (6’4” 265 lbs). Perhaps #Redskins should take a look at them.
— Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewisJr) January 19, 2019
1. Tyree Jackson, QB, Buffalo Bulls, 6′ 7″, 245 lbs.
Jackson, a late Senior Bowl addition, is an intriguing player that has enticing attributes as a quarterback, including his arm strength which really stands out in the highlight film. Jackson, whether in the pocket or throwing on the run, exhibits significant arm strength; making vertical downfield throws look effortless.
His mobility allows him to extend plays as well. The former Buffalo star is a big, strong body player. In fact, he resembles Carolina Panthers’ QB Cam Newton in some ways, with his ability to shrug off sacks and be an effective weapon in power run-plays or quarterback sneak situations.
Jacksons started all 14 games at quarterback for Buffalo in 2018 and is the first player in school history to be named Mid-American Conference (MAC) Offensive Player of the Year. The Norton Shores, Michigan native was named MAC Offensive Player of the Week three times and finished the season with 225 of 407 passes for 3,131 yards, 28 touchdowns; and 12 interceptions. The 21-year-old is the kind of player that has all the tools and will be a guy upon which to keep a close eye as far as his development through the draft process.
2. Dewayne Hendrix, DE, University of Pittsburgh, 6′ 4″, 265 lbs.
Hendrix is another player that stands out when watching his highlight film, displaying quickness and athletic ability. Many may look at him as a finesse-type of player but the O’Fallon, Illinois native is no one-trick pony. He exhibits an uncanny ability to impose his will on his opponent through various moves. The Pitt product displays explosiveness at the snap, putting tremendous pressure on offensive tackles in pass-rushing situations.
The tireless efforts in how he uses his hands allow him to ward off blockers in his pursuit of the quarterback. Hendrix can bend the edge with ease due to his speed but, because of his violent hand technique, he creates separation; allowing him to keep his opponent off balance. Speed, power and his ability to change direction fluidly while rushing a passer make him tough to guard.
In the run game, Hendrix plays with great leverage consistently setting a firm edge against the run. However, he is also capable of squeezing the gaps in eliminating running cutback lanes. This skillful ability is also created through the clever use of his hands which allow him to disengage while defending against the run.
The former Panther transferred from the University of Tennessee to Pitt in 2015. He started 13 games last season, totaling 29 combined tackles (five for a loss), 4.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and one forced fumble. He possesses all of the intangibles needed if he is selected by the right team and could be an immediate contributor.