2014 NFL Draft Stock Report: Ka’Deem Carries the Load
By Erik Lambert
Nov 23, 2013; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats running back Ka
A lot of previously unknown or forgotten names gave big boosts to their stock heading towards the 2014 NFL draft. Which of them did the most and which others fell flat?
David Fales – QB – San Jose State – Stock: Up
Almost becoming an afterthought in the epic quarterback gold rush of the 2014 class, David Fales has made a hard push to get back into the conversation. Over his last five games he’s really begun to pick things up from a slow start, throwing 15 touchdown passes to five interceptions. His latest outburst against Navy for 440 yards, five touchdowns and an astonishing 75 completion percentage on 56 passes certainly gave his stock a much needed boost.
Jadeveon Clowney – DE – South Carolina – Stock: Down
Not only is the production not there for Jadeveon Clowney of late, the health issues are becoming a red flag. Despite his obvious talent and future in the pros, his standing as a top five pick really could be in danger if he can’t at least finish the college season on a positive note. His willingness to play hurt is something teams will take into account, but they will also have to question whether the injury problem could lead to more down the road. Until some of those questions are answered, the South Carolina defensive end will continue to have doubters.
Ra’Shede Hageman – DT – Minnesota – Stock: Up
Freakish athletes tend to rise fast on big boards and the 2014 NFL draft could have one ready for a huge jump at defensive tackle. Considered raw and unpolished at teh start of the season, Ra’Shede Hageman has become a nightmare for offensive lines to deal with. He is already a terror against the run, collecting nine tackles for a loss. In addition, he has two sacks, an interception, seven pass deflections and two blocked kicks. It’s clear the mental side of the game is catching up to his elite physical potential. If he can improve his pass rush on the stat sheet, there is no question he’s jumping high into the first round.
Darqueze Dennard – CB – Michigan State – Stock: Up
An injury made many forget about him early in the season but scouts have maintained that MichiganState corner Darqueze Dennard is one of the best in his draft class. He proved that again for the Spartans when he collected his second interception in three games and fourth of the season against Northwestern. His instincts and ability to play tight press coverage will make him very highly sought after by several teams in the pros. In fact he’s good enough to be the first corner off the board next May.
Aaron Colvin – CB – Oklahoma – Stock: Down
On the flip side, another quality defensive back hasn’t had the same luck of late. Aaron Colvin has put together a quiet season with just one interception. He remains a physical force against the run but his stock depends heavily on how many plays he can make in coverage. LettingKentState quarterback Jake Waters throw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns isn’t going to help much despite the Sooners claiming a victory. Colvin has been dealing with some injuries that haven’t helped, but if he wants a chance to crack the first round he better start playing with more urgency and consistency.
Ka’Deem Carey – RB – Arizona – Stock: Up
Being disappointed about not playing in a national championship hinted that Oregon doesn’t quite realize how fortunate they are to have consideration to play in it in the first place. The moment a team loses it’s interest in playing hard is the moment they start losing. Ka’Deem Carey drove that point home emphatically while leading a rout by Arizona with 202 yards and four touchdowns on 47 carries. If he wasn’t considered the best running back in the country before, he deserves that consideration after gutting the fifth ranked team in college football.