The influx of underclassmen into the NFL draft has seen a steady increase in college players leaving before exhausting their eligibility and for the second year in a row, the NFL has seen a record number of underclassmen declare themselves for the draft.
Of the record redshirt sophomores and juniors to leave college early, the wide receiver position has seen so much talented players at one time that this position group could be among the best ever, according to Dan Pompei.
"“NFL front-office men still are getting acquainted with the junior receivers, and their final grades will hinge on workouts. But based on information we have at this time, this group of underclassmen receivers could be one of the best position groups of underclassmen ever.”"
Sammy Watkins, Marqise Lee, Mike Evans, Allen Robinson, Brandin Cooks, Kelvin Benjamin, Brandon Coleman, Jordan Matthews, Donte Moncrief, Jarvis Landry, Odell Beckham Jr. Davante Adams and Martavis Bryant are the top players at the position this year.
Depending on workouts at the NFL combine and each player’s respective pro days as many as seven could hear their name called during the first round.
"“There might not be a top-five pick at the position, but the juniors give the position great depth in the first few rounds,” a college scouting director said."
If you’re an NFL team needing an upgrade at wide receiver this is the year to find that guy in the draft.