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After 14 straight offensive players came off the board before the first defender in 2024, that’s going to change in a big way next spring. This year’s defensive tackle, cornerback and safety class already look special. While there’s no blue-chip quarterbacks just yet, there’s plenty of promise with four making this preseason top-50 big board.
1. Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Johnson is an island corner with a fearless play style and big-play ability. His combination of size and suddenness gives him the ability to shut down routes in man coverage before they even start. No one fared better against top wide receiver talent on a consistent basis than Johnson.
2. Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Sophomore defensive tackles aren’t supposed to dominate the way Graham did last season. He lives in opponents backfields with his ability to defeat blocks with quicks, power and technique. It’s scary to think where Graham’s ceiling can push to after how polished he was already as a true sophomore.
3. James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Pearce is in a freaky tier of athletes off the edge that has a very strong track record of translating to the NFL. His movement skills are closer to that of a typical wide receiver than your typical defensive lineman. Pearce’s double-digit sacks last season were only scratching the surface of what kind of player he can become.
4. Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
The unicorn of college football. Hunter’s ranking here is more reflective of his play at corner than at wide receiver, but he would only tumble a few spots if he turned his focus solely to the offensive side of the ball. His body control, ball skills and instincts at corner are off the charts.
5. Carson Beck, QB, Georgia
Beck is the cleanest returning quarterback in college football. He’s a savvy and quick decision-maker with enough zip to challenge any level of the field. While he thrives as a pocket passer, Beck has enough…
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Author : Mike Renner
Publish date : 2024-08-19 13:26:37
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