NFL Draft 2015: 5 under-the-radar prospects to watch

Baylor Bears quarterback Bryce Petty (14) passes against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Baylor Bears quarterback Bryce Petty (14) passes against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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A general view of the NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
A general view of the NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Draft prospects aren’t created equally, but who are some players who could fall further than they should?

The NFL Draft always generates endless discussion for diehard fans, and this year’s class is no different. The top of the first round always takes the brunt of the attention away from the rest of the draft, and with both Oregon QB Marcus Mariota and Florida State QB Jameis Winston eligible for selection in 2015, there will be a 1-versus-2 debate for the ages.

Not all NFL Draft prospects can be taken in the top half of round one, however, and there are always bargains to be had in the middle rounds. For the most part, these diamonds in the rough fly under the radar for defined reasons, whether it be physical limitations or subpar collegiate track record, but the leading front offices in the NFL can often unearth these players to fill meaningful roles moving forward.

In this space, we will examine five players who are sure to be drafted lower than they should be when the NFL Draft arrives from April 30 through May 2. They won’t all be stars at the next level, but each is a safe bet to overachieve against their draft position, and that is the name of the game.

Let’s unveil the list, coming at you in alphabetical order.

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