2015 NFL Draft: Top Boom-Or-Bust Prospects
By Erik Lambert
Nov 15, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) looks on during the second half against Miami Hurricanes at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Every draft has those players. The ones that are so eye-popping in their talent, but have serious red flags to consider. Thus they are labeled a boom-or-bust. They can take the league by storm as the next superstar, or just as easily flame out as another tragic disappointment. Who are among those top gambles in the 2015 NFL draft?
Jameis Winston (QB, Florida State)
The total package if there is one in this class. Jameis Winston has it all. At the age of 21 he’s already got a Heisman trophy and a national championship to his credit. Physically he’s got size, strength, mobility and a good arm. Mentally he is a passionate leader who performs his best late in games when his team needs him most.
Yet for all that he has serious maturity issues that have cropped up multiple times from rape allegations to shoplifting charges to suspension for lewd conduct. He is equipped to succeed, but seems one more bad decision away from crashing and burning.
Todd Gurley (RB, Georgia)
It’s not hard to watch Todd Gurley run and instantly think, “This guy is the next Marshawn Lynch or Adrian Peterson.” He is that big, that strong and that fast. However, everything changed when Gurley tore his ACL during the second half of the season for Georgia. Now that dark cloud hovers over him, leaving scouts wondering if he has weak knees and this becomes a constant issue.
Dorial Green-Beckham (WR, Oklahoma)
One can’t watch Dorial Green-Beckham and immediately think of A.J. Green. He’s tall with great length, plays physical and has the speed to threaten defenses over the top. Talent-wise he is a top 10 pick easy. However, a history of drug use and other off-the-field problems make him a radioactive pick. Such can happen when a kid doesn’t have an easy childhood. If he ends up with a coach who can’t provide structure, DGB is in trouble.
Marcus Peters (CB, Washington)
Confrontations with coaches and personality issues linger for Marcus Peters and was why Washington sent him packing. That would normally sink most prospects, but with corners in such high demand and Peters being so talented, it could be a storm he might weather. He has size, length, speed, instincts, ball skills and a clear passion for the game.
Jordan Phillips (DT, Oklahoma)
During the 2015 NFL draft, teams will be on the lookout for a certain stereotype of player i.e. big guys that can move. Those are the ones that can often grant a team so much flexibility on offense or defense. In this case all eyes are turning to Jordan Phillips. The nose tackle is 334 lbs and 6’6” but can move like a linebacker. The possibilities are endless. Still, he has already had back surgery and a number of other undisclosed injuries fixed. For all his immense potential, the shelf life looks short on him.
Arik Armstead (DE, Oregon)
The term “freak” gets thrown around a lot, but it applies to Arik Armstead. A man who is 6’7”, 296 lbs shouldn’t be able to move like he can. Throw in natural power and the makings are there for a dominant defensive lineman. Yet the production at Oregon doesn’t line up. He should be posting ridiculous numbers but he hasn’t. Which begs the question. Does he have the passion and the work ethic to be the best?