PITTSBURGH — With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the usual dynamics of rising and falling prospects are becoming evident.
This draft is shaping up to have its surprises, just like any other. Here are three players likely to be selected earlier than previously thought.
Jeremiah Love, Notre Dame running back
It’s amusing, really, that the top prospect in this draft is seen as a riser at this point in time. In today’s football environment, discussions around running backs have shifted.
Teams seem hesitant to draft a running back high up, especially within the top 10. And while that doesn’t diminish Love’s abilities—he’s exceptional both as a runner and a receiver—it does reflect the current state of the game. The perception of value at that position has changed dramatically. Just a few years back, top-three picks included running backs regularly.
Yet, Love’s standout skills may challenge that trend, particularly in a draft that appears light on premier quarterback talent and doesn’t feature many elite prospects across other positions like edge rushers or wide receivers.
There’s growing speculation that the Cardinals, who hold the No. 3 pick, could be interested in Love. If not them, then the Titans at No. 4 and the Giants at No. 5 are possible options. This marks a significant shift compared to a couple of months ago when he was projected to go around or below the top 10.
Dillon Thieneman, safety at Oregon State
This topic has been buzzing for a while, especially after Thieneman’s standout performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, which turned heads and made many revisit his game footage.
He’s proven that the highlight reel reflects his ability.
Monroe Freeling, Georgia tackle
Freeling certainly stands at 6-foot-7 and weighs 315 pounds, according to most observations. His last season at left tackle for the Bulldogs was commendable.
However, he doesn’t yet meet the typical experience criteria many NFL teams look for when considering draft prospects. With just a single full season as a starter, he has only played in 13 games overall in his college career.
For talent evaluators, the number of games played often generates a mix of excitement and anxiety. More games generally lead to more confidence in a player’s evaluation. Fewer games introduce greater uncertainty.
What’s influencing Freeling’s ascent on draft boards is his noticeable improvement during the season. His impressive combination of size and fluid movement adds to his appeal.
While he might not be the standout tackle in the first round, three years down the line, there’s potential for him to be the best tackle from this draft class. It’s somewhat unpredictable.
Consequently, he’s now on the radar of teams, who are considering him earlier than expected. Don’t be surprised if Freeling gets called late in the first round.
