2020 NFL Draft: Trevor Lawrence and 5 prospects in the spotlight in Week 2

You already know about Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence and his NFL Draft potential, but these other prospects in action this weekend command your attention too.

In Week 2 of the college football season, two of the Power 5 conferences take center stage with the ACC and Big 12 teams in action for the first time this season.

These games put some higher-profile NFL-prospects on full display. There is plenty of early and mid-round draft picks looking to improve their draft standing or solidify their stock. Junior Brock Purdy leads the Iowa State Cyclones against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns. A breakout season from Purdy would give him a big decision to make this offseason.

Notre Dame captain, defensive lineman Daelin Hayes looks to rejoin the conversation as one of the top defensive linemen in the country. He could start with a big opening game against the Duke Blue Devils. Pitt defensive ends Rashad Weaver and Patrick Jones II both want to prove the Panthers pass rush is as dangerous without Jaylen Twyman.

There are a host of players with NFL futures to watch this weekend. Here are five to keep your eye on while you watch.

Trevor Lawrence: No. 1 QB, Draft Projection – Round 1, Pick 1

Clemson’s junior quarterback has as much pressure on him as any college football player in recent memory, and Trevor Lawrence is just fine with that. Lawrence is the Heisman Trophy favorite and the prohibitive first pick in the NFL Draft.

If Lawrence were a baseball player, writers would use the term “five-tool player.” Lawrence can make any throw and his 6-foot-6 height allows him to scan the field for his receivers. Lawrence is also a freak athlete who improved greatly as a runner last year. Lawrence is a natural leader and an alpha. He has a presence that commands respect and teammates want to follow.

Barring something completely unforeseen, Lawrence will be the first player taken.

Quincy Roche: No. 3 OLB/DE, Draft Projection – Early Round 2

Quincy Roche had the quietest double-digit sack season in recent memory last year at Temple. The competition will be much tougher in the ACC after transferring to Miami, and he’ll be the main pass-rusher with All-American defensive end Gregory Rousseau opting out this season

The Maryland native has excellent speed off of the edge and uses his hands tremendously well. Miami employs a 4-3 defense so that Roche will spend most of his time at defensive end. He’ll have to show that he can drop anchor and set the edge against the run.

Roche could benefit from a big season from fellow transfer and former No. 1 overall recruit, Jaelan Phillips. A big season would give Roche lots of one-on-one matchups on the other end of the line. Roche needs to prove he can be as productive in the ACC as he was in the AAC.

Marvin Wilson: No. 5 DT, Draft Projection – Early Round 2

Marvin Wilson is on a mission this season. The crown jewel of Florida State’s 2017 recruiting class, Wilson wants to leave the Seminole program better than it was when he arrived. For Wilson to move up draft boards, he needs to play to his fullest potential.

Wilson has been a consistent run stuffer but needs to show more as a pass rusher. Wilson has the physical strength and athleticism to be a better pass rusher. Wilson seems to be more motivated this season to elevate his team and the program to a tremendous season.

Wilson’s motivation to return for his senior season could lead to a monster season for the Texas native.

Travis Etienne: No. 1 RB, Draft Projection – Round 1

It was a surprise for many that Travis Etienne decided to return for his senior season. There were so many running backs in last season’s draft Etienne’s place in the draft were uncertain. This season, Etienne is the top running back in the draft this season and a Heisman candidate.

Etienne’s measurables have NFL scouts drooling. He has a rare combination of size and speed. The senior has added weight every season at Clemson and has a frame with room for growth. Scouts love that Etienne has not carried the football a lot while at Clemson. In the last two seasons, Etienne has averaged just 13.7 carries per game.

A big season from Etienne could shoot him to the top-10, a rarity for running backs recently.

Chazz Surratt: No. 7 OLB, Draft Projection – Rounds 2-3

Chazz Surratt is a natural athlete. A converted quarterback, Surratt had 115 tackles and was runner up for ACC defensive player of the year in his first year at linebacker despite 2019 being his second season at linebacker ever. Surratt showed instincts for the ball as well as the lateral quickness to get to the ball carrier.

Surratt needs more seasoning when he drops in coverage, but he’s adequate. Surratt needs more reps. Returning for another season was the right move for Surratt. There are times when he plays the wrong gaps or over pursues. When repetition meets instincts, Surratt will be a dynamic presence on the perimeter.

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