NFL Draft 2018: 5 Small school prospects ready to make it big
While players from bigger FCS colleges usually dominate the draft board, there are a few prospects from smaller schools who make it big too.
You will probably hear Ohio State, Alabama, Notre Dame and other notable schools announced when the 2018 NFL Draft rolls around. However, there is plenty of talent outside major programs who are overlooked because of their team’s lack of recognition.
High-level prospects often end up at smaller schools for a number of reasons. Whether they had off-field troubles early in their career, academic issues, or are just late-bloomers, it happens relatively frequently. However, they can still find their way into the NFL.
Here, we take a look at the 2018 NFL Draft’s best small school prospects who are ready to make a name for themselves this year.
Dallas Goedert, TE (South Dakota State)
Goedert’ combination of size, speed, and athletism allowed him to rack up 92 receptions for 1,293 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2016. The South Dakota native and All-American has prototypical size for a tight end, which is sure to create matchup nightmares in the NFL. If Goedert improves his route running, he will become an every-down threat at the next level.
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Darius Leonard, OLB (South Carolina State)
Leonard was a beast during his Bulldog career. In 2016, the outside linebacker earned MEAC Defensive Player of the Year honors with 124 tackles, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions and four forced fumbles. While he’s not the biggest linebacker at 6-2, 230 pounds, Leonard makes up for it with great speed and athleticism. His football instincts and nose for the ball should compliment any NFL team with a need for a defensive weapon.
Alex Cappa, OT (Humboldt State)
Haven’t heard of Humboldt State? Don’t worry you’re not alone. The Division II school based in California hasn’t had a player drafted to the NFL since 1991. But that should change come draft day this year.
Alex Cappa is a towering 6-7, 305 pounds with great strength and natural athleticism. The offensive tackle won the Great Northwest Athletic Conferences’ Offensive Lineman of the Year in four consecutive seasons. Cappa may have a learning curve when faced with Pro Bowl pass rushers like Von Miller and Joey Bosa, but he has the ability to compete.
Justin Watson, WR (Penn)
As Penn’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns and all-purpose yards, Watson’s production speaks for itself. Though he wasn’t recruited by any major programs coming out of high school, the Pennsylvania native became one of the most productive receivers in FCS history. Watson has good size and ball skills that are well suited for the NFL. However, explosiveness and the ability to beat experienced corners is a concern.
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Roc Thomas, RB (Jacksonville State)
After two years at Auburn, Thomas decided to leave his hometown and transfer to Jacksonville State. The running back led his new team with 1,065 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2017, garnering second-team All-American honors. The former five-star prospect has great balance and the ability to make quick cuts downfield. So for Thomas to succeed in the NFL, he will have to improve his vision and patience in between tackles.