Scouting the Nation: Top 2024 NFL Draft Prospects on the East Coast

Who are this week's players that have the spotlight shined on them for the NFL Draft?

In this week’s edition of scouting the nation, we take a look at three players destined to rise next fall, including a defensive end from Rutgers, one of the top guards in the nation and the best tight end on the east coast.

DE Aaron Lewis, Rutgers

Every time I put on Rutgers film, #71 stands out in a big way. Lewis, a prototypical sized defensive end, has the most advanced pass rush plan of any defensive end returning to college football. His hand timing, understanding of what move to use and when to use them is better than most NFL players. Lewis flashed the ability to corner and he can also win as an inside rusher. He’ll definitely be a candidate to kick inside on pass rush downs. Lewis had a breakout campaign that saw him record 40 pressures in 2022 and he has the talent to lead the nation in pressures and sacks next season. Lewis could be the first top 32 selection from Rutgers since Anthony Davis and Devin McCourty in 2010.

OG Christian Mahogany, Boston College

Had it not been for an ACL tear, Mahogany might have been the top guard in the 2023 draft. He’s a massive player who is very light on his feet for his size. Mahogany is fantastic in pass protection and rarely gave up pressures on his 2021 tape. He also elevated his play against the top teams Boston College faced, which is something teams will love. In that same mold as O’Cyrus Torrence and Steve Avila, who will be the first two guards taken in the upcoming draft, Mahogany could put himself in that same territory next year.

TE Gavin Bartholomew, Pitt

The best blocker at the tight end position coming back to college, Bartholomew is the complete player. He is a dominant blocker but when incorporated in the passing game, he is extremely effective. Bartholomew is athletic and a threat with the ball in his hands. He started as a freshman on a Pitt team that won the ACC and was a key contributor. Last season was no different, as he was the best player on the Panthers' offense. Bartholomew has size, athleticism, great hands and he can block. There are few holes in his game, and he will be a day one starter at the next level, which is hard to find at tight end.

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