Scouting the Nation 2024 NFL Draft: Three Potential Risers for Next Fall

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

In this edition of Scouting the Nation, we take a look at one of the best quarterbacks in the nation, Michigan’s best defender, and an Alabama pass rusher poised to breakout.

QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss

A natural passer, Dart throws with incredible touch and ball placement. Dart is very good on back shoulder throws and does an excellent job throwing his receivers open. With tighter windows in the SEC, Dart showed off high-level accuracy to all three levels of the field. Dart is mobile in and out of the pocket and a playmaker when things break down. He was able to avoid a lot of sacks, get outside the pocket and make throws downfield. That is a rare trait for such a young quarterback. Dart is a great quarterback prospect who checks a lot of boxes to be a future NFL starter.

DT Kris Jenkins, Michigan

Had he declared for the 2023 draft, Jenkins would have been a day-two pick. If he takes the next step, Jenkins could end up as the top defensive tackle in next year's draft. Jenkins plays all over the defensive line, with the versatility to play 3-4 defensive end or as a 3-tech. He is stout against the run, playing with very good pad level and a strong base to anchor. Jenkins then uses his quick hands to shed blocks and wrap up the ball carrier. The first step quickness and ability to bend stand out on Jenkins' film. From the 3-tech spot, Jenkins can beat guards consistently. By playing so low to the ground, Jenkins is explosive and he keeps his hands in tight to bullrush guards. He is able to win as a pass rusher with both speed and power, which is hard to find in an interior lineman. Jenkins returns to Michigan as their top defender and should find himself in the first round conversation next April.

EDGE Chris Braswell, Alabama

The Crimson Tide have the deepest pass rush group in the nation every year, so there is always a player on the verge of breaking out. That is the case with former five-star recruit Chris Braswell, who should have a prominent role in the Alabama defense, with the departure of Will Anderson. Braswell was named to Bruce Feldman's Freak List and that athleticism is displayed on his tape. Braswell shows off loose hips and natural bend to win the outside track. He has a quick first step and the play strength to convert speed to power. Because of Braswell's ability to threaten the tackle's outside shoulder, he was able to win with inside counters. In the run game, Braswell can set the edge and then disengage from the blocker to make the tackle. Alabama also asked Braswell to drop back into coverage and he looked natural doing that. At the next level, Braswell projects as a 3-4 outside linebacker who can be a great pass rusher but also drop back into coverage and defend the run. Braswell has all the talent to emerge as one of the top edge rushers in the nation and be first-team All-SEC.

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