Adam Carriker Breaks Down Big 10 Impact Players in the NFL Draft
The 2024 NFL Draft is set to kick off on April 25, 2024. NFL hopefuls from around the country will attend the annual ceremony in hopes of seeing their name called effectively making their hard work come to fruition by exiting college and turning pros.
While not every name may not be called, there are certain players that are "locks." These players not only have a high chance of being drafted but are likely to be impact players from the moment they enter the NFL.
Adam Carriker of The Big 10 Show has broken down which players will be locked, which includes some familiar names.
"This is a guy who's as sure as a lock as you're going to find in this year's NFL draft...Now, sometimes he has a little bit of a problem getting off the line of scrimmage with that man coverage. But beyond that, he's big, tall, fast. He has a lead, athleticism and runs a 4.39."
via Adam Carriker, The Big 10 Show
Carriker is speaking about Marvin Harrison Jr., who is a WR that has been slated to go first among the available receivers in the draft. While many believe that the Chicago Bears will draft USC QB Caleb Williams, many believe they might also draft Harrison.
He ended the 2023 campaign with 1,211 yards and 14 TDs. Much like his father, Harrison Jr. is a speedy and strong receiver who can catch contested balls.
"Next up, Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. Only one sack in 21 career starts. Now he has the physical traits and footwork of a top elite NFL lineman."
via Adam Carriker, The Big 10 Show
Carriker believes Penn State OL Olu Fashanu will be one of the impact players drafted this year. Sadly, Fashanu was injured at the combine and did not continue, but his stats speak for himself. Only allowing one sack in 21 starts is outstanding.
"And last but certainly not least, quarterback out of Michigan, J.J. McCarthy. A little bit more unproven, didn't have to do as much at Michigan, despite leading his team to a national championship. He's got the ability to make big-time plays if developed in the right system with the right coaches."
via Adam Carriker, The Big 10 Show
Carriker believes what many people believe, and that is that McCarthy is going to be an incredible pro-QB. He may not be as talked about as USC's Williams, LSU's Jayden Daniels, and North Carolina's Drake Maye—but McCarthy could end up being the steal of the draft for whoever lands him.
James Brizuela has been a professional writer since 2019. After covering entertainment and the NFL for Sportskeeda, he now works as an Assignment Desk Editor for the LA Sports Report Network which has partnered with the Sports Illustrated FanNation Network, focusing on his expertise in LA sports at the college and professional level.