Big Ten may cancel season: 2021 NFL Draft prospects most affected

STATE COLLEGE, PA - OCTOBER 05: Jayson Oweh #28 of the Penn State Nittany Lions lines up against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first half at Beaver Stadium on October 5, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
STATE COLLEGE, PA - OCTOBER 05: Jayson Oweh #28 of the Penn State Nittany Lions lines up against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first half at Beaver Stadium on October 5, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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Big Ten, 2021 NFL Draft
Daniel Faalele, Minnesota, Big Ten football (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images) /

4. Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan

In his first season on the field last year, Cameron McGrone was an absolute stud for the Wolverines defense. Starting 10 games, he finished the season with 65 total tackles (38 solo) along with 9.0 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one pass defense. He clearly showcased his potential.

The issue with McGrone is the lack of experience. As noted by Kyle Crabbs of The Draft Network, the linebacker is “still a bit green” due to the fact that he has only started in 10 contests for Michigan. But when you look at first-year production and the athletic prowess he brings, it’s hard not to love his potential.

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In what is a relatively weak linebacker class after Micah Parsons and Dylan Moses in the 2021 NFL Draft, another season of high-end play from McGrone in addition to mental development with more reps could push him into that upper tier. Not having the season takes away that opportunity for him.

3. Daniel Faalele, OT, Minnesota

Human beings aren’t often built like Daniel Faalele. The big Golden Gophers offensive tackle measures in at 6-8, 400 pounds and looks every bit of that when you see him on field. Even better, the big man can move in all directions for a player his size, making him even more intriguing of a prospect out of the Big Ten in the 2021 draft class.

Faalele is likely going to be a high draft pick based on the potential of his size and skills alone. Moreover, the converted rugby player has also shown a knack for the position in limited time playing on the field.

At the same time, Faalele could really use the 2020 college football season to further hone his skills. With more reps and experience, this supreme physical specimen could be one of the most unique offensive line forces in the league and a lock to be a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.