Washington vs Alabama: NFL Draft Prospects to Watch

A look at some of the draft eligible prospects who are participating in the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl on New Year’s Eve.

Washington Huskies:

Wide Receiver #1 John Ross, Washington

One of three receivers (Clemson’s Mike Williams and WMU’s Corey Davis) receiving first round hype, Ross doesn’t have the size of a prototypical number one wideout, but his elite speed, refined route running and reliable hands have NFL teams drooling about his potential. Simply put, Ross is one of the most dangerous weapons in the country and a major reason why Washington is in the college football playoff. I wrote more about Ross’ fit with the Seahawks in my Seahawks specific draft watchlist.

Wide Receiver #8 Dante Pettis, Washington

Pettis doesn’t get as much publicity as his teammate John Ross, but the 6’1, 188 pound wideout will be playing on Sundays as well. Like fellow Husky Jermaine Kearse, he won’t be an early selection, but an NFL team will bring Pettis in to score touchdowns (14 in 2016) and make big time plays. Pettis also has experience as a return man. His five career punt return touchdowns rank first in Washington history.

Defensive Tackle #50 Vita Vea, Washington

Since Vea is just a redshirt sophomore, it’s doubtful that he will declare. If Vea does decide to declare, he has the potential to land in the top 15. Vea is a massive defensive tackle at 6’5, 335 pounds. A former high school running back, Vea is a unique athlete. Because of his size and strength, he has the power to consistently disrupt the play, yet he still has the lateral agility to chase down quarterbacks in the backfield. If Vea makes a big impact during the playoff, he may decide to capitalize on his value and go pro. In addition, keep an eye on Vea’s fellow defensive linemen Greg Gaines (#99) and Elijah Qualls (#11).

Cornerback #20 Kevin King, Washington

The lesser heralded member of Washington’s lethal cornerback tandem, King is a tough, physical cornerback with plus size (6’3, 192) and elite athleticism.His ability to jump out of the gym, plus his elite lateral agility, will aid in his transition to the NFL. Adding to King’s value is his versatility. At UW, King has played outside and in the slot, as well as some safety. Expect to hear Kevin King’s name rise up draft boards as we advance closer to April.

Cornerback #26 Sidney Jones IV, Washington

Jones is the next ball hawking cornerback off of Washington’s production line. He may occasionally get lost in a stacked cornerback class, but make no mistake, Jones is one of college football’s best cover cornerbacks. Overall, Jones needs to become more consistent but his refined technique and ball skills could push him into round one of April’s draft.

Safety #32 Budda Baker, Washington

If Seahawks fans are looking for a hedge for Earl Thomas, look no further than Budda Baker. Baker is no Earl Thomas, but he’s the closest thing in this draft class. Like Thomas, Baker is a physical safety with elite range, athleticism, and instincts. Baker’s less than ideal frame and hard hitting mentality aren’t supposed to mesh, but like Thomas, the 5’10 speedster makes it work. In the NFL, Baker can also slide in as a slot cornerback if necessary.

Other Washington Huskies to watch: RB #22 Lavon Coleman, TE #15 Darrell Daniels, EDGE #5 Joe Mathis (OUT), ILB #36 Azeem Victor (OUT)

Alabama Crimson Tide:

Tight End #88 OJ Howard, Alabama

The 6’6 Howard has been criminally underutilized throughout his career in Tuscaloosa, but when Alabama feeds him the football, good things happen. After Howard’s coming out party in the National Title Game last season, many thought he would capitalize on his momentum and exploit a weak tight end class by declaring for the draft. Instead, Howard chose to return to Alabama and develop his game. Howard has all the tools to be a top 10 pick and elite NFL tight end. Howard’s far from a finished product, but his rare size/speed combination, polished hands and top notch quickness put Howard atop of a stacked tight end class.

Defensive Lineman #93 Jonathan Allen, Alabama

Allen is another Alabama stud who chose to stay in school last season rather than heading to the NFL. The move paid huge dividends, as Allen was one of the best defensive players in college football this season. His dazzling array of pass rushing moves, violent hands, and quickness make him an effective pass rusher both at defensive end and defensive tackle. His ceiling may be capped compared to some of his fellow draft prospects, but his polished technique makes him a safe bet to be a day one contributor upon entering the NFL. However, Allen definitely has the instincts and athletic ability to be an impact player for a long time.

Outside Linebacker #22 Ryan Anderson, Alabama

Anderson is a lesser known component of Alabama’s dynamic edge rushing rotation, but he’s still a talented pass rusher with a place in the NFL. He lacks ideal length, but he’s a well-rounded, physical football player who does all of the little things well. He’s a great fit as a 3-4 OLB who can step in and contribute right away in the NFL.

Inside Linebacker #10 Reuben Foster, Alabama

The value of his position may drive his draft position down, but Reuben Foster is an elite prospect who should go in the top five of the 2017 NFL Draft. Foster is a missile, wreaking every ball carrier that dares to cross his path. In addition to his hard hits, Foster brings a strong football IQ, top notch athletic ability and elite instincts. The team that lands Foster is gaining an elite playmaker for the middle of their defense for years to come.
Profiles on Alabama OT #74 Cam Robinson, EDGE #56 Tim Williams, CB #26 Marlon Humphrey and DT #54 Dalvin Tomlinson can be found here.

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