2022 NFL Draft notebook: Ohio State’s dynamic duo and more
By John Blair
- Last week, National Football Scouting which is one of two scouting services the NFL uses came out with it’s draft grades. The highest-rated player according to this list was Georgia linebacker Adam Anderson while UNI offensive tackle Trevor Penning was rated as the best small school prospect.
- Miami tight end Will Mallory looks to be back at full health. Mallory missed spring ball due to a shoulder injury he suffered during the 2020 season. He should enter the season rated as one of the better tight ends in the 2022 NFL Draft.
- While Michigan’s Ronnie Bell has led the Wolverines in receptions and yards the past two seasons he has only had four career touchdown receptions. His lack of production in the red zone could be a concern for scouts if he doesn’t improve in this area next year.
- Former Troy wide receiver Kaylon Geiger has transferred to Texas Tech. Geiger caught 64 passes in 2020 and was named the Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year in 2019. He should be one of the Red Raiders leading receivers this year, and his shiftiness makes him an interesting prospect in the NFL especially when it comes to returning punts.
- Unfortunately, Texas Tech did suffer some bad news when it came to the wide receiver position this spring. That news was that Erik Ezukanma severely broke his arm which will keep him out to at least August. Last season, Ezukanma became the first Red Raider to lead the team in receiving yards in back-to-back years since Jakeem Grant in 2014-15
- Pittsburgh wide receiver Taysir Mack had to undergo two surgeries during the 2020 season, yet was still able to play in 8 of the team’s 11 games. This toughness and desire to be on the field can only be viewed as a positive by scouts.
- Former Eastern Michigan wide receiver Quian Williams has transferred to Buffalo. Over the last two seasons, Williams has caught 76 passes for 983 yards and eight touchdowns. He should be an immediate contributor to Buffalo’s passing game.
- Idaho State WR Tanner Conner placed seventh in the 100m (10.83), fourth in the 110m hurdles (14.03), and fourth in the 4x100m at the Big Sky Outdoor track and field championships. Conner also has a 40-inch vertical which combined with his speed makes him one of the best athletes in the FCS.