The NFL draft blends strategy, scouting and spectacle into a weekend event that can shape franchises for years to come. With Round 1 taking place Thursday, rounds two through Friday and seven on Saturday, fans from across the country will travel to Green Bay’s Titletown District outside Lambeau Field to watch names be called.
While Cam Ward is generally seen as the top-rated quarterback prospect and has a potential to become a franchise player, teams could find other impact players at the position in the early rounds. Florida State defensive tackle Daryl Smith, for example, was a First-Team All-American last season and possesses the size, strength, speed and athleticism to be an impact lineman at the next level.
Other high-profile prospects to keep an eye on include Georgia offensive tackle Michael Simmons, who was a standout in pass protection even when he was limited by injuries, and Penn State defensive end Nasir Carter. Carter was a dominant pass rusher who led the FBS with 23.5 tackles for loss and ranked seventh in sacks.
Another name to watch is Oklahoma running back Ashton Jeanty, who has been hailed as a potential generational talent. A big, powerful runner with excellent speed and balance, he has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker in the NFL.