NFL Draft 2018: Updated ranking of the top 32 draft prospects entering Week 9
Malik Jefferson
OLB, Texas
The Texas Longhorns had the ultimate opportunity to pick up a season-defining victory this past week against Oklahoma State. Instead, they fell just short by a score of 13-10 in the loss to the Cowboys.
While the offense struggled to put up points, the defense had one of their best performances in a while. Again, Malik Jefferson made life tough on the offense and was all over the place with his play.
He finished the night with 14 tackles and one quarterback hurry. This falls in line with the consistency that he has shown this season as a pass rusher and a defender in general. The intensity he brings to the defense continues to make an impact.
Jefferson has a high motor and he continues to produce each week. While the Longhorns have plenty of growth as a team still in their first year under Tom Herman, it’s been a nice season for their linebacker.
Baker Mayfield
QB, Oklahoma
Bill Snyder almost used his magic again to complete the upset of the Oklahoma Sooners in Manhattan. Somehow, Baker Mayfield found a way to carry the Sooners and use a little magic of his own.
With other quarterbacks not putting up the seasons expected of them, Mayfield continues to go on a tear and remains a top Heisman candidate. His performance against the Wildcats was a reminder of how special of a talent he is.
Through the air, he had a very accurate night. He finished the night 32/41 passing with 410 yards and two touchdowns to just one interception. With plenty of big passes, the Sooners mounted a furious second-half rally.
On the ground, Mayfield was also the hero and just as lethal. He rushed the ball nine times for 69 yards and two touchdowns. With almost 500 yards combined on offense and four total touchdowns, Mayfield had an excellent night for his draft stock.