It's draft week. Finally. The evaluations are done. The rankings are set (more on those later this week). But before the picks are made, let's take a comprehensive stroll through this draft class. Consider this my 2016 NFL Draft Awards, where I highlight the best of the best in particular categories.
We'll start broader, with categories that apply to all positions, before drilling down to specific skill sets that matter for each position group. If you'd like to skip forward to a particular position, click the links below.
QB | RB | WR | TE | OL | DL | Pass Rusher | LB | CB | S
ALL POSITIONS
Most underrated
1. Jerell Adams, TE, South Carolina
2. Adam Gotsis, DE, Georgia Tech
3. Justin Simmons, S, Boston College
Adams is worth a second-round pick in a class that's light on viable TE options. Simmons was one of the last evaluations I did this draft, and he pops off the screen with his coverage skills. He turned in one of the best combine performances this year too.
Most overrated
1. Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
2. Noah Spence, OLB, Eastern Kentucky
3. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
Lynch has undeniable raw talent, including a unique mobility for his size and a big-time arm. That's why we give him a second-round grade. But he also has a lot of developing to do coming from an offense that doesn't translate well to the NFL (including shotgun, no-huddle and a high-percentage of screens). Lynch also has to work hard on his footwork in order to become a more consistently accurate passer. Robinson, meanwhile, appears unblockable at times, but his motor runs too hot and cold for my liking.
Biggest risers
1. Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
2. Artie Burns, CB, Miami (FL)
3. Nick Martin, C, Notre Dame
4. Alex Lewis, OT, Nebraska
Floyd is the hottest name in the draft. I'll be shocked if he gets past the 14th pick (Raiders), and it's looking more and more like he'll go in the top 10. Burns could sneak into the bottom of the first round, with teams like Pittsburgh, Kansas City and Carolina all having a need for the long corner.
Biggest fallers
1. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
2. Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
3. Maliek Collins, DT, Nebraska
Hargreaves' measurables are concerning to teams. He stands just 5-foot-10 (below average for the position), has arms measuring 30 5/8 inches (nearing red-flag territory) and didn't run as well as hoped at the combine (4.50 in the 40). I really like Collins' 2014 tape, but his production took a big hit last season.
Highest ceiling overall