Scouting the Nation 2024 NFL Draft: Weapons Galore and a Top Defender

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

On this edition of scouting the nation, we take a look at the fastest receiver in the Big Ten, Alabama’s best offensive weapon, Ohio State’s top defender and a riser in the Mountain West.

WR Roman Wilson, Michigan

The first thing that stands out on Wilson’s film is his game-changing speed. He is quick off the line and also builds up speed downfield. Wilson puts a tremendous amount of stress on defenses deep, which was on full display against TCU in the College Football Playoff. He went for 104 yards but was open on almost every play. Against man coverage, Wilson does a good job of separating at the top of his route. Speed is the name of the game and Wilson should be in the running for the fastest 40-yard dash time at the combine. He’s a day-one NFL starter in the slot.

TE CJ Dippre, Alabama

A huge get for Nick Saban in the transfer portal, Dippre is a complete tight end. He plays with tremendous confidence and physicality, exactly what teams look for in a tight end. As a run blocker, Dippre shows off impressive play strength and hand placement. He will be one of the top run blockers in next year’s draft. As a wideout, Dippre is very athletic and is a weapon with the ball in his hands. Dippre gets in and out of breaks well and can create separation. Alabama is going to be counting on Dippre to be their top target with a young offense and he has the ability to be the focal point. Dippre has the size, pedigree and production to be an extremely high draft pick.

DT Michael Hall Jr., Ohio State

51 on Ohio State’s defense always stood out on film last season, and after going in-depth, it is safe to say he’s the best player on the Buckeyes defense. Hall Jr. has lightning quick hands and foot speed to be a legitimate interior pass rusher. Guards consistently whiffed when trying to block him at the point of attack. Hall Jr. is a loose athlete and has excellent get off as well. Defensive coordinators covet interior pass rushers and Hall is a perfect 3-tech at the next level. Ohio State has been known for producing edge rushers but they have a special talent in Hall. He is a first-round caliber prospect and has the tools to be the first defensive tackle drafted next April.

WR Tory Horton, Colorado State

The top Group of 5 receiver in the 2024 class, Horton has the ability to go higher than Rashee Rice (pick 55) did in this past draft. Horton put up 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns for the Rams last season. Not to mention, he got better down the stretch, recording over 130 yards in three of his last four games. The way to describe Horton’s game is smooth. He is a glider on the field, with a great understanding of how to attack leverages and openings in zones. Horton can change direction with ease and does an excellent job of getting in and out of his breaks. He has the versatility to line up on the outside or in the slot too. Horton is an excellent prospect who will rise up boards early in the 2023 season, on his way to being one of the first wideouts selected.

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