NFL Draft Scouting the Nation: 2024 Prospects Who Will Rise Next Fall

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

Author:
Jack Borowsky
Publish date:
Feb 9, 2023 10:15 AM EST

In this story:

CB Javon Bullard, Georiga

The best nickel cornerback from this past season, Bullard displayed elite instincts and fluidity. He stayed in receivers' hip pockets and Bullard never looked out of phase in coverage. Whatever Georgia asked Bullard to do, he did it at a high level. Bullard can defend the run, too, showing the ability to trigger downhill and the mentality to make a play on the ball carrier. Teams will also love his versatility, as Bullard has the skill set to play outside but he showed he can be an elite slot cornerback. Expect him to travel with the opponent's top receiver at the next level. Georgia has put out several top-tier cornerbacks as of late but Bullard has the talent to be the highest one drafted and the best in the NFL.

OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma

Both Anton Harrison and Wanya Morris should be high picks in the 2023 draft but neither has the upside of Guyton, who flashed tremendous potential when on the field for the Sooners last season. Guyton has incredibly quick feet to go align with an impressive knee bend. He has the length to stick at tackle and Guyton looked comfortable at either left or right tackle. His core strength allows him to absorb power but he also has the athleticism to mirror defenders in pass protection. On the move, Guyton is a controlled blocker with the natural play strength to sustain his blocks and seal off defenders. Guyton projects to be one of the top tackles in the 2024 class.

DL Tyler Baron, Tennessee

In terms of his body type, it’s hard to find a player like Baron. He has excellent size, length and athleticism. He can kick inside, with requisite strength and first-step quickness, to wreak havoc from a 4i or 3-tech position at the next level. Baron does a great job of getting skinny to avoid blocks and then use his closing burst to make a play in the backfield. The flash plays Baron put together on film show a player with immense upside. If he hits his ceiling, he could be a versatile chess piece along the defensive line, who could be a high-end pass rusher and run defender. Baron is going to skyrocket up draft boards this upcoming fall.

CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri

The speed and ability to stay attached to receivers downfield is the first thing that stands out on Rakestraw Jr.'s film. His recovery burst is unbelievable and he does a great job changing direction. Rakestraw Jr.'s instincts and ability to react with the ball in the air are excellent. Rakestraw Jr. locked down a lot of top SEC receivers on film last season, consistently giving up no separation. The natural cover skills are great in Rakestraw Jr.'s game, making him one of the most enticing prospects for the 2023 season. Expect Rakestraw Jr. to be viewed as one of the best cornerbacks in the nation by the end of the season.