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2017 NFL Draft stock report: J.T. Barrett rising despite loss

By George Stockburger

Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 31, 2015; Iowa City, IA, USA; Maryland Terrapins defensive back William Likely (4) returns a kickoff against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the second half at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa won 31-15. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Iowa City, IA, USA; Maryland Terrapins defensive back William Likely (4) returns a kickoff against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the second half at Kinnick Stadium. Iowa won 31-15. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

William Likely, ATH, Maryland: Stock Down

Maryland’s best player went down with an ACL injury last weekend, ending his collegiate career prematurely. Likely is the Terps best return specialist, and starts at cornerback despite his small frame. At 5’7, Likely will struggle to get drafted where someone with his talent typically would.

Despite playing in every game this season for Maryland, Likely has not grabbed an interception in nearly two seasons. In 2014 he recorded six interceptions, but has not been targeted against since. This year he has 32 tackle, a sack, and a forced fumble.

NFL teams will most likely give Likely an opportunity to play nickel-corner due to his size, but his role as a return specialist will be coveted. He has six career return touchdowns, four of which were punt returns. Likely has a career average of 25.7 yards per kick return, and 13.1 per punt return.

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With his size and speed, NFL teams could offer him the opportunity to move to running back. Likely has shown his athleticism as a return specialist, and could translate that to offense. Maryland has played Likely at both running back and wide receiver over the past two seasons, giving him 13 carries and six catches over two years. Last season against Penn State Likely got four carries and 30 yards on the ground.

Size and health will determine where Likely lands in the NFL, but his reputation as one of college football’s best return specialists will help him find a home.

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