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5 Prospects Not Named Josh Allen Who Could Be the Top Pick in the 2018 NFL Draft

By Shawn Spencer

September 10, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) throws a pass against the UNLV Rebels during the first half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
September 10, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) throws a pass against the UNLV Rebels during the first half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sam Darnold 2018 NFL Draft
Nov 5, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass against the Oregon Ducks during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Sam Darnold (QB – USC)

Sam Darnold of USC is the top alternative to Josh Allen in the upcoming draft. The Trojans began the season 1-2 with Max Browne under center before handing the reigns over to Darnold. After losing his debut against Utah, Darnold reeled off nine straight wins, including an epic come from behind victory over Penn State in the Rose Bowl.

Darnold is the prototype of what a top quarterback prospect looks like. He’s 6-foot-4 with a strong, accurate arm and good field vision. He even possesses solid mobility, both in and out of the pocket. He displays very good poise when facing pressure which is extremely rare for a redshirt freshman.

There are a few aspects of his game that need to be cleaned up, most notably his upper body mechanics, but Darnold is every bit the prospect Josh Allen is. He has just as good of a chance to hear his name called first overall at the 2018 NFL Draft.

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