2020 NFL Draft Underclassmen

A list of officially declared underclassmen for the 2020 NFL Draft. I also offer my opinion on whether or not each prospect made a wise move by leaving school early. I will not factor financial considerations in my analysis because most players need the money. Also, I would like to point out that seniors not given a medical redshirt aren’t included.

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Click here for a list of prospects returning to school
Click here for underclassmen prospect rumors






Underclassmen Declaring for the 2020 NFL Draft:


Jan. 19

Isaiah Simmons, OLB, Clemson
Height: 6-3. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2020): 1.

Thisis a no-brainer decision. Isaiah Simmons is coming off an amazing year and projects to be a potential top-10 pick. Going back to school would’ve just put him at risk for injury and/or slight regression.

Grade for declaring: A





Jan. 18

Grayland Arnold, CB, Baylor
Height: 5-10. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

Grayland Arnold probably should’ve gone back to school, as he’s a late-round prospect at best. I can understand why he’s making the jump, given the coaching change at Baylor, but it’s hard to grade this favorably.

Grade for declaring: C-

A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
Height: 6-2. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

A.J. Terrell is a second-day prospect, so I’m all for his decision to declare. I don’t think he could’ve improved his draft stock much more with another year at Clemson, so he seems to be making the right choice.

Grade for declaring: B


Jan. 17

K’Lavon Chaisson, DE/OLB, LSU
Height: 6-3. Weight: 250.
Projected 40 Time: 4.63.
Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

I had K’Lavon Chaisson slotted at No. 12 in my 2021 NFL Mock Draft, but that was assuming he continued his development and lived up to his athleticism. Chaisson obviously has a shot to be chosen in the first round, but he might end up falling into Day 2 in this class. It also must be noted that scouts don’t do much work on redshirt sophomores, but Chaisson is good enough to declare despite being an underclassman.

Grade for declaring: B

Pete Guerriero, RB, Monmouth
Height: 5-9. Weight: 195.
Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

You hardly ever see any Monmouth players declaring early, but Pete Guerriero is coming off a huge season. He rushed for 1,995 yards in 2019. There’s not much else Guerriero could do to improve his draft stock, so moving to the NFL, despite being a late-round prospect, is the correct decision.

Grade for declaring: A

Thaddeus Moss, TE, LSU
Height: 6-3. Weight: 249.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

Thaddeus Moss was a big-time performer in the college football playoff during LSU’s championship run. He’s selling high on his draft stock, so I can support his decision to declare, even though he’s a redshirt sophomore. It should be noted that Moss will turn 22 prior to the 2020 opener, so age is a factor in the decision as well.

Grade for declaring: A-


Jan. 16

Lloyd Cushenberry, C, LSU
Height: 6-3. Weight: 315.
Projected 40 Time: 5.28.
Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

Lloyd Cushenberry is coming off a strong 2019 season and has entered second-day consideration. Given that Cushenberry stands to lose his quarterback and some offensive coaches, he’s making the right decision.

Grade for declaring: A-

Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Height: 6-6. Weight: 305.
Projected 40 Time: 5.40.
Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

Austin Jackson is raw, so he could have returned to school without any arguments. However, he has terrific athleticism and upside, so he should be a first-round pick if he performs as well at the combine as people expect him to. With that in mind, Jackson’s decision to go to the NFL makes sense.

Grade for declaring: B




  • Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 192.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    It would’ve been a huge mistake for Justin Jefferson to return to school. Not only is he selling very high on his draft stock by performing incredibly in the college football playoffs; he stands to lose his quarterback. Jefferson figures to be a first-round pick.

    Grade for declaring: A

    Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 322.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.32.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Tristan Wirfs had a strong 2019 campaign overall, but struggled against Michigan. Still, Wirfs should be able to sneak into the opening round. If not, he’ll be an early selection on Day 2. I don’t think Wirfs could’ve improved his draft stock very much with another year at Iowa, so I like his decision to move to the NFL.

    Grade for declaring: A-




    Jan. 15

  • Grant Delpit, S, LSU
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 208.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Grant Delpit is coming off a bit of a down year. He was much better in 2018 than he was in 2019. That said, he’s still expected to be chosen in the first round, so he’s making a good decision to declare for the 2020 NFL Draft.

    Grade for declaring: A-

    Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Tee Higgins is coming off a tremendous season in which he came close to cementing his status as a first-round pick. He’s on the border of being chosen in the opening frame, but I don’t see what more he could’ve done to improve his chances. Higgins’ return to school probably would’ve hurt more than helped him, so this is a great decision on his part.

    Grade for declaring: A

  • Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 227.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

    If you want to talk about selling high on draft stock, it doesn’t get any better than Patrick Queen’s situation. Queen was just named Defensive Player of the Game in the national championship victory over Clemson. Queen was amazing, and he’ll test well to boot at the combine. He could be a second-round pick as a result. There’s a chance Queen could’ve improved his stock even further with another year at LSU, there’s an equal chance he could’ve regressed or gotten injured, so I like his decision.

    Grade for declaring: A-

    Toren Young, RB, Iowa
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 223.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
    Projected Round (2020): UDFA.

    I’m going to list this as an unincomplete grade. Toren Young won’t get drafted, but he knows that. He’s leaving school because he’s graduating. He’ll give the NFL as a Hail Mary shot, but will likely do something else with his life by the fall.

    Grade for declaring: Inc





    Jan. 14

    A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 277.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.80.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    A.J. Epenesa is coming off a strong 2019 campaign, and he’s almost certain to be a first-round pick. There’s a decent chance he’s chosen in the top 20. Given that, there was no reason for Epenesa to return to school.

    Grade for declaring: A

    James Lynch, DE/DT, Baylor
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 295.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.91.
    Projected Round (2021): 2-4.

    James Lynch is coming off a huge season, so he’s doing well to sell high on his draft stock. There’s also a coaching change at Baylor, so it makes sense for Lynch to declare. He’s expected to be chosen around the third frame.

    Grade for declaring: B





    Jan. 12

    Oluwole Betiku, DE/OLB, Illinois
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 250.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.54.
    Projected Round (2021): 4-6.

    Oluwole Betiku is a third-day prospect, so I normally would criticize this move. However, because Betiku is a transfer from USC, he’ll turn 23 this summer, so returning to school could’ve really hurt his chances of being drafted.

    Grade for declaring: B

    Dalton Keene, TE, Virginia Tech
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 251.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.82.
    Projected Round (2021): 4-6.

    Dalton Keene is coming off a great year (59 catches, 748 yards, 8 TDs), so I like him selling high on his draft stock. The tight end class is not very strong, so Keene could see his stock rise throughout the pre-draft process.

    Grade for declaring: B

    Michael Warren II, RB, Cincinnati
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 222.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
    Projected Round (2021): 4-6.

    Michael Warren saw a heavy workload in 2019 (261 carries), so he’s smart to make the jump to the pros. Being worn down while not getting paid is certainly not ideal.

    Grade for declaring: B

    Cody White, WR, Michigan State
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 210.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Cody White is coming off a solid season, though he could’ve stood to benefit by returning to school. The receiver class is stacked, so White would’ve had better luck sneaking into Day 2 with another year of school. Not being able to participate in the Senior Bowl could hurt him.

    Grade for declaring: C





    Jan. 10

    Kendrick Rogers, WR, Texas A&M
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 210.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.54.
    Projected Round (2021): 3-5.

    Kendrick Rogers might end up being a third-round pick, though it’s possible that he could fall to the fourth or fifth frame. Rogers may have improved his draft stock by returning to Texas A&M, especially if Kellen Mond decides to return to school. That said, Mond could opt to declare for the 2020 NFL Draft, which would make this decision look much better.

    Because we don’t know the Mond news, I’m going to post two grades for this. The first would be if Mond leaves for the NFL, and the second would be if Mond returns to school.

    Grade for declaring: A- / C


    Jan. 9

    Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 316.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.20.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    Tyler Biadasz is currently projected to be the first center chosen in the 2020 NFL Draft. He may not go in the opening round, but given that he’s the No. 1 prospect at his position, this is an easy “A” decision.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Alohi Gilman, S, Notre Dame
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 202.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Alohi Gilman played well for Notre Dame for two seasons after a year at Navy. He’s a redshirt junior, so he’ll be able to play in the Senior Bowl if he receives an invite. That’s a positive for his decision to declare for the 2020 NFL Draft even though he’s pegged as a mid-round prospect.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 335.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.20.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Solomon Kindley is projected to be one of the top two guards in the 2020 NFL Draft class, so I like his decision. Kindley is on the cusp of being a first-round prospect, but even if he goes in the second frame, I think this is a good decision because he could’ve risked injury or slight regression by returning to Georgia. It makes sense for Kindley to take advantage of his 2019 success.

    Grade for declaring: A-



    Cole McDonald, QB, Hawaii
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 220.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.88.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    Cole McDonald is a redshirt junior, so he’s been in school for four years. I suppose he decided to move on because this decision wasn’t based on his football ability. McDonald has a good chance to be undrafted, though he could be chosen in the final couple of rounds. Either way, I can see why he’d want to move on with his life. I mean, who would want to stay in Hawaii for more than four years? Oh, the horror of living there!

    Grade for declaring: D



    Houston Miller, DE, Texas Tech
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 275.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.95.
    Projected Round (2020): FA.

    Any time you log two tackles in a season, you almost have to declare for the draft, right? Houston Miller has no chance of being drafted.

    Grade for declaring: F



    Debione Renfro, CB, Texas A&M
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 198.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    Debione Renfro will likely be a late-round prospect or a UDFA unless he can improve upon his 4.60 40-yard time. He was a decent player for the Aggies, but not someone good enough to warrant an early declaration, especially as a true junior. Renfro would’ve really stood to benefit from participating in the Senior Bowl, so he should’ve waited one more year.

    Grade for declaring: D



    Arryn Siposs, P, Auburn
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 212.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.90.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    Two of the previous three punters who declared early were drafted, so I suppose that bodes well for Arryn Siposs. I don’t have much else to say about this.

    Grade for declaring: C




    Jan. 8

    Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 220.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.79.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    Jake Fromm was once considered one of the top prospects in the draft, but he regressed a bit at Georgia. He’s coming off a down year, so the case could have been made for him to return to school. However, Fromm could have risked further regression, so that would’ve been a gamble. Plus, teams still like Fromm because of his intangibles. There’s a decent chance Fromm will still be a first-round selection; I have him going to the Patriots in my 2020 NFL Mock Draft.

    Grade for declaring: A-



    Antoine Winfield, S, Minnesota
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 205.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Antoine Winfield is a redshirt sophomore, but he’s a special case because he has the potential to be a first-round pick. Redshirt sophomores generally shouldn’t declare because scouts don’t do advance work on them, but Winfield is a play-making prospect who is coming off a great year. He’ll probably be chosen in the second frame, but he has the ability to rise to the opening round.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Jan. 6

    Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 207.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Quintez Cephus had a strong 2019 campaign (59 catches, 901 yards, 7 touchdowns), so I can understand why he’s declaring. However, he’s entering a loaded receiving class, so he could slip to the third day of the 2020 NFL Draft. Also, Cephus was accused of rape prior to this past season. He was found not guilty, so he’s going to have to answer questions about that so soon after those events transpired. Returning to school would’ve shown some signs of maturity.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Willie Gay Jr., OLB, Mississippi State
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 235.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Willie Gay Jr. will likely be chosen early on Day 3, but he has a shot to be chosen in the third round. Under normal circumstances, I could have gone either way with this. However, Mississippi State is undergoing a coaching change, so I can understand why Willie Gay would make the jump to the pros.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Deshawn McClease, RB, Virginia Tech
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-FA.

    Deshawn McClease figures to be a late-round pick, though it’s possible that he could be chosen as high as the fifth frame. McClease is a running back, however, so I don’t blame him for declaring at all, given how fragile players at the position happen to be.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.40.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Henry Ruggs is a likely second-round prospect, but could certainly be chosen in the opening frame. With a new quarterback set to start next year at Alabama, I can definitely understand why Ruggs would make an early declaration.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Geno Stone, S, Iowa
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 210.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Geno Stone is just a mid-round prospect. There’s a chance he could sneak into Day 2, but it seems as though Stone should have returned to school. He could have really stood to benefit from participating in the Senior Bowl.

    Grade for declaring: C-



    Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 218.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): Top-20.

    Tua Tagovailoa suffered a gruesome injury in meaningless action, which will likely cause him to miss the entire 2020 campaign. It’s a shame that he almost certainly won’t be able to play next year, but that was the primary reason he shouldn’t have returned to Alabama. Tagovailoa stands to benefit from being in an NFL strength-and-conditioning program. He’ll be doing this while earning an NFL salary.

    Despite the injury, NFL personnel still expect Tagovailoa to be chosen in the opening round of the 2020 NFL Draft. In fact, I still have him in the top five of my 2020 NFL Mock Draft. Thus, the Tagovailoa decision is an A for multiple reasons.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Michael Turk, P, Arizona State
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 228.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.80.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    It’s not very common for punters to declare early for the NFL Draft. Except, this is not particularly early. Michael Turk was a redshirt junior, so he had spent four years in school already. There’s no reason for him to linger.

    Grade for declaring: C




    Jan. 5

    Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 197.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.53.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    There’s a chance Xavier McKinney will fall into the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, but it’s more likely that not that he’ll be a Thursday pick. He would’ve risked injury and some regression by returning to school, so it’s difficult to argue with his decision to make the leap to the pros.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Quez Watkins, WR, Southern Miss
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    This is a very stupid decision. By returning to school, Quez Watkins could’ve improved his draft stock and then participated in the Senior Bowl to prove that he can play with the big-school prospects. He won’t have that opportunity now.

    Grade for declaring: F




    Jan. 4

    Salvon Ahmed, RB, Washington
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 195.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.36.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    Salvon Ahmed might not get drafted, but I usually won’t criticize a running back for declaring early. I don’t think Ahmed could’ve improved his stock very much with another year in school.

    Grade for declaring: B-



    Javelin Guidry, CB, Utah
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 193.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.36.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-FA.

    Javelin Guidry is an undersized cornerback who will need to test well at the combine – if he’s even invited – to be drafted. I think he’s taking too much of a risk, so he should’ve returned to school. Doing so would’ve opened up a Senior Bowl participation possibility the following January.

    Grade for declaring: D



    Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    This is a stupid decision. Noah Igbinoghene has moved from receiver to cornerback, so he’s still learning his new position. He’s a raw cornerback, so he would’ve stood to benefit greatly with another year at Auburn. NFL coaches won’t have the same patience, so Igbinoghene’s career could be derailed by this decision.

    Update: Charlie Campbell is hearing that teams are very intrigued by Igbinoghene, and that he may be chosen much earlier than anticipated. I still think he should’ve returned to school to become a first-round lock in 2021, but he could end up being chosen in the opening frame anyway.

    Grade for declaring: B-



    Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 192.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    This had to be a very easy decision. Jerry Jeudy is a top-five prospect, and if he had returned to Alabama, he would not be catching passes from Tua Tagovailoa in 2020.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Netane Muti, G, Fresno State
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 310.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.31.
    Projected Round (2020): 7-FA.

    It’s difficult to get behind this decision. Netane Muti hasn’t been able to stay healthy the past two seasons. He should’ve returned to school to prove that he can get over his injuries. Instead, he’ll go undrafted.

    Grade for declaring: F



    Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 208.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.36.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.
    Donovan Peoples-Jones was the top receiver recruit of his class, but he greatly disappointed at Michigan. I thought about arguing that Peoples-Jones should return to school to finally develop into what scouts thought he would be, but it’s clear by now that Jim Harbaugh has given up and lost at least some passion for football, so Peoples-Jones would be wasting his time by returning to Michigan. Peoples-Jones could sneak into the third round if he tests very well at the combine, which should happen.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Cesar Ruiz, C/G, Michigan
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 319.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.28.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.
    Cesar Ruiz will likely be chosen early on Day 3, but he’ll have a chance to move into third-round consideration if he does well in pre-draft workouts. Ruiz has a long track record of success at Michigan, so I don’t know if he could’ve improved his stock very much with another year in college.

    Grade for declaring: B



    D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 215.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    D’Andre Swift is the favorite to be the first running back chosen in the 2020 NFL Draft. He’s a potential top-20 pick, so he’s obviously making the right decision. Returning to Georgia would’ve put him at risk for injury and slight regression.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 216.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.54.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    As you can see in the NFL Hot Press, Charlie Campbell conducted a poll where some NFL personnel projected Jonathan Taylor in the first round. Wisconsin ran Taylor into the ground with 600 carries in three years, so he could’ve ruined his career by returning to Wisconsin. Given how fragile running backs are, Taylor is making an A decision.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 320.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.17.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Jedrick Wills has been in the first round of our 2020 NFL Mock Draft for the past several weeks, so I have to like this decision. Wills would’ve risked injury or regression with another year at Alabama, which could’ve dropped him out of the first round.

    Grade for declaring: A




    Jan. 3

    Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 250.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.84.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Cole Kmet received a second-round grade from the NFL Draft advisory committee, which would explain why he has decided to leave Notre Dame. The committee isn’t always correct, but the second-round range makes sense for Kmet, given his talent level and the underwhelming state of the position in this class. I like Kmet’s decision to bolt for the pros.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Kenneth Murray, ILB/OLB, Oklahoma
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 238.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Kenneth Murray had an easy choice. He’s widely projected as a first-round prospect, and I’ve had him in the top 15 of my 2020 NFL Mock Draft in many updates. This is an easy “A” grade for Murray, who stood to gain nothing by returning to Oklahoma.

    Grade for declaring: A



    James Pierre, CB, Florida Atlantic
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 185.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    James Pierre is not much of an NFL Draft prospect, so it’s easy to criticize his decision to declare. I would like to point out, however, that Florida Atlantic is undergoing a coaching change, so I can at least understand why Pierre made this choice.

    Grade for declaring: C-



    Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 265.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.69.
    Projected Round (2020): Top-5.

    Barring a freak injury, or a team trading up for a quarterback, Chase Young will be the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. This is an obvious A , as Young would’ve risked injury or slight regression by returning to Ohio State.

    Grade for declaring: A




    Jan. 2

    Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 260.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    Devin Asiasi is going to have a tough time getting drafted, but he’s spent four years in college and is coming off his best year. Perhaps it’s just time for him to move on and sell high on his draft stock.

    Grade for declaring: B-



    Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2019): Top-16.

    This is a no-brainer A decision. Jeff Okudah has a great chance of being a top-five pick, and he could even be chosen No. 3 overall. Okudah would’ve only hurt himself by going back to school.

    Grade for declaring: A




    Dec. 31

    Quartney Davis, WR, Texas A&M
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.53.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Quartney Davis is coming off a down year and may slip into Day 3 as a result. I can’t say I agree with his decision to declare for the 2020 NFL Draft as a result. Davis should’ve returned to Texas A&M, where he could’ve improved his draft stock and become a second-round prospect. However, given his disappointing 2019 campaign, he’ll likely slip to Day 3.

    Grade for declaring: D



    Tony Jones Jr., RB, Notre Dame
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 224.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    I’m usually in favor of running backs declaring early, but there’s a decent chance Tony Jones Jr. won’t be drafted. That said, Jones is coming off his best year, so I don’t blame him for making the jump to the pros.

    Grade for declaring: C-



    K.J. Hamler, WR, Penn State
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 176.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    K.J. Hamler is a redshirt sophomore, so he’ll have the challenge of impressing teams when scouts haven’t done any work on him. I think redshirt sophomores should remain in school for that reason unless they’re sure-fire first-round prospects. While Hamler could sneak into the opening round, I don’t think we can say that about him. Hamler will be entering into a loaded receiver class, so he should’ve stayed at Penn State for one more year.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Tony Jones Jr., RB, Notre Dame
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 224.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    I’m usually in favor of running backs declaring early, but there’s a decent chance Tony Jones Jr. won’t be drafted. That said, Jones is coming off his best year, so I don’t blame him for making the jump to the pros.

    Grade for declaring: C-




    Dec. 30

    Trajan Bandy, CB, Miami
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    Trajan Bandy is a small cornerback who might have trouble getting drafted. He said something about unforeseen circumstances playing in his decision to declare for the pros, but it won’t matter if he’s not drafted and fails to make a 53-man roster, which is a strong possibility.

    Grade for declaring: D



    DeeJay Dallas, RB, Miami
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 215.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.46.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    I seldom criticize running backs for declaring early for the NFL Draft, but this is one exception. DeeJay Dallas actually got injured in 2019, so it would’ve helped for him to showcase some better durability in 2020. Dallas is also just a late-round prospect who might not get drafted, so his decision to leave Miami is quite dubious.

    Grade for declaring: D



    J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 214.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    This was a no-brainer decision on J.K. Dobbins’ part. He was amazing to close out the year and may have played his way into the opening round of the 2020 NFL Draft. My money is still on Dobbins being chosen atop Round 2, but he’s a running back and is at risk for injury more than most players declaring this season. Thus, Dobbins would’ve made a huge mistake by returning to Ohio State.

    Grade for declaring: A



    CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 189.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    Had CeeDee Lamb returned to school, he would have risked injury and some slight regression as a result of a quarterback and a potential head-coaching change. Going back to Oklahoma clearly would’ve been a big mistake, so Lamb, a potential top-10 selection, is making a no-brainer decision to bolt for the NFL. I currently have Lamb slotted to the Broncos at No. 11 in my 2020 NFL Mock Draft.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Josiah Scott, CB, Michigan State
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 168.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.47.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Josiah Scott is projected to be an early third-day pick, so I have to question his decision to declare a year early. Scott would’ve stood to benefit greatly from participating in the Senior Bowl to help his stock, but that won’t be a possibility now. This is not a horrible decision, but Scott appears to be making a mistake.

    Grade for declaring: C-



  • Curtis Weaver, DE/OLB, Boise State
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 266.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Curtis Weaver projects as a third-round pick right now, but he figures to test well at the combine, so he could move into second-round consideration. I think this is a fine move. I’m not crazy about it, but if Weaver tests very well, he certainly won’t regret not returning to Boise State.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 27

    Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 329.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.14.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    Redshirt sophomores who declare for the draft better be good because they’re at a severe disadvantage as a result of scouts not doing any work on them. Ross Blacklock is a third-day prospect who will really need to impress in pre-draft workouts to avoid a chance at being undrafted.

    Grade for declaring: F



    Darrynton Evans, RB, Appalachian State
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.38.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Darrynton Evans is a third-day prospect, but I’ll never blame a running back for declaring early. Evans has been highly productive at Appalachian State, so he has nothing left to prove in school.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Matt Hennessy, C, Temple
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 295.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.17.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Matt Hennessy can play both center and guard, but he’s better at the former position. He’s just a third-day prospect, so he could’ve benefited from returning to Temple for another year.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Keith Ismael, C, San Diego State
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 310.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.25.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Keith Ismael had been a steady presence on San Diego State’s offensive line. He started 38 of 39 possible games at San Diego State, so he has proven all he’s needed to, and I don’t think he could’ve improved his stock any further with another year in school.

    Grade for declaring: B-



    Trishton Jackson, WR, Syracuse
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 191.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2021): 3-5.
    Trishton Jackson is a mid-round prospect who could sneak into the third frame. He’s coming off a big year, so I don’t blame him for selling high on his draft stock.

    Grade for declaring: B-



    Stanford Samuels III, CB, Florida State
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 185.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2021): 2-4.
    Stanford Samuels showed his play-making abilities in 2019, so he could be a second-round prospect. Considering the coaching change at Florida State, Samuels can’t be blamed for declaring.

    Grade for declaring: A-




    Dec. 26

    Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
    Height: 6-6. Weight: 227.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.80.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    I think you can look at this declaration two ways. First, Jacob Eason has a big arm and a positive football IQ, so he should be successful in the pros. He’ll likely be a first-round pick, making this a good decision. On the other hand, Eason doesn’t have much experience and could stand to benefit from spending more time in his college program. He could’ve improved enough to be chosen second overall behind Trevor Lawrence in the 2021 NFL Draft. That said, I think I favor this choice overall, as there was some risk with Eason returning to Washington.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 24

    Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 310.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.19.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

    Ezra Cleveland is coming off a strong year for Boise State and might have earned his way into the second round. I like his decision to declare because he’s selling high on his draft stock.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 20

    Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 210.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    You know my take on running backs by now. They’re so fragile that it’s a mistake for them to return to school if they’re projected to be chosen in the first four rounds. It’s likely that Cam Akers will be selected on the second day of the 2020 NFL Draft, so this decision had to have been a very easy one, especially amid the coaching change.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
    Height: 6-7. Weight: 369.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.
    Mekhi Becton had done a good job late in the year of improving his draft stock. I believe he is now strongly in first-round consideration, so I like Becton’s decision to sell high on his draft stock.

    Grade for declaring: A-



    Nick Coe, 3-4DE, Auburn
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 282.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Nick Coe was seen as a potential first-round pick entering the 2019 season. Unfortunately for Coe, he endured a poor campaign and now might be lucky to even be chosen on Friday night. Coe should have returned to school to boost his draft status because he’s really selling low on his stock.

    Grade for declaring: D



    Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    I don’t hate this move, but Jaylon Johnson needs to fill out his frame, so I don’t think his body is ready for the pros yet. He’s also not coming off the best year, so he could’ve improved his stock with another season at Utah.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Javon Leake, RB/KR, Maryland
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 206.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.40.
    Projected Round (2021): 4-6.

    Javon Leake is a big-play gadget weapon on offense and special teams. His play-making ability could get him drafted early on Day 3. I’m mixed on his decision. He could have improved his stock a bit by returning to school, but I don’t think it would’ve made much of a difference.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Colby Parkinson, TE, Stanford
    Height: 6-7. Weight: 240.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

    Colby Parkinson had a strong season despite dealing with an injury to his quarterback, K.J. Costello. With Costello being bound for the NFL, Parkinson did a good job to declare for the pros.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 180.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2021): 7-FA.

    It’s difficult to get behind this decision because Amik Robertson may not be drafted.

    Grade for declaring: F



    Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 320.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.10.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    This is a no-brainer. Andrew Thomas has a great chance to be chosen in the top 10 of the 2020 NFL Draft, and he may even sneak into the top five. It would’ve been foolish for him to return to school.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Jeff Thomas, WR, Miami
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 170.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
    Projected Round (2020): 4-6.

    Jeff Thomas is a solid player who has impressed scouts this season. Those scouts believe he can be chosen early on Day 3. Thomas could’ve helped his draft stock by returning to school, so this early declaration seems to be a mistake, but not a very egregious one.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
    Height: 6-7. Weight: 340.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    It’s usually a mistake when a redshirt sophomore declares for the draft because scouts often do no work on them. The exception is if that redshirt sophomore in question projects to be a top-10 pick, and that’s not the case with Isaiah Wilson. There’s a chance Wilson sneaks into the first round, but he’ll likely be chosen on Day 2. Wilson could’ve returned to school and really improved his draft stock to become a top-10 selection in the 2021 NFL Draft, but he’ll really need to hit a home runw ith his pre-draft workouts.

    Grade for declaring: C-



    David Woodward, OLB/ILB, Utah State
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 230.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
    Projected Round (2021): 5-7.

    I don’t understand this decision at all. David Woodward is coming off an injury-ravaged 2019 campaign and will likely be a late-round pick. He should’ve gone back to school to repair his draft stock.

    Grade for declaring: F




    Dec. 12

    Kamren Curl, S, Arkansas
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 198.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Kamren Curl had a solid season in 2018 and was even better this past year. The case could be made for Curl to return to school to improve his draft stock even further, but he could always risk regression and injury, which would ruin what he did in 2019.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Kylin Hill, RB, Mississippi State
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 215.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Kylin Hill needs to improve his receiving ability for the NFL. Otherwise, he looks like a solid second-day running back prospect. Given the poor durability most running backs have, Hill is making the correct decision.

    Grade for declaring: A-



    Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 304.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.96.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Justin Madubuike was a disruptive force in the interior of the Aggies’ defensive line this past season, logging 11.5 TFLs and 5.5 sacks. He’s selling high on his draft stock, so he’s making the correct decision to declare early.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 11

    Eno Benjamin, RB, Arizona State
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 201.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Eno Benjamin projects as a change-of-pace back for the NFL. He has a decent chance of sneaking into the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, making his decision to bolt for the pros a very logical one.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 10

    A.J. Dillon, RB/FB, Boston College
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 245.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    A.J. Dillon is a power back who will probably be chosen in the fourth or fifth round. Given his position, Dillon is making the right decision.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 225.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

    Jordan Love is a good talent, but his weakness is mental, as he has poor field vision. I would’ve wanted him to go back to school to work on that aspect of his game.

    Grade for declaring: C



    K.D. Nixon, WR, Colorado
    Height: 5-8. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.47.
    Projected Round (2020): 6-FA.

    I can’t say I understand this decision. K.D. Nixon projects as a late-round pick, at best. He could easily go undrafted. He needs to have some great pre-draft workouts.

    Grade for declaring: F




    Dec. 9

    Lynn Bowden Jr., WR/KR, Kentucky
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 199.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Kentucky was such a mess this year that Lynn Bowden, a dynamic receiver, had to switch to quarterback this past season because of all the injuries at the position. Thus, I don’t blame Bowden at all for moving on to the NFL. He can switch back to receiver and not worry about playing quarterback anymore.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 239.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.55.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Hunter Bryant has a shot to be a second-day pick, but teams might be worried about his dubious injury history. I wish Bryant would’ve returned to school and proved to teams that his health could be trusted. However, given the coaching change at Washington, I can understand why Bryant would want to declare.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 195.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Cameron Dantzler is coming off a solid season. He’s likely to be a second-day pick, though it wouldn’t be the craziest thing if he snuck into the opening frame. Dantzler is buying high on his draft stock, so I agree with his decision to declare, as he would’ve risked regression and/or injury by returning to school.

    Grade for declaring: B



    C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 186.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    NFL team sources and scouts told Charlie Campbell that they thought C.J. Henderson was protecting himself from suffering an injury this past season. Henderson played poorly at times, especially as a tackler. Henderson may have hurt his draft stock in the process, which is ironic, given that he was trying to protect it so much. Henderson still has a shot at being a first-round pick, but may end up going in the second frame.

    Grade for declaring: B




    Dec. 6 or earlier

    Trystan Colon-Castillo, C/G, Missouri
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 315.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.25.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    Trystan Colon-Castillo figures to be a late-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. I’m usually not high on late-round prospects declaring early, but Missouri is a mess right now. The Tigers are undergoing a coaching change, so I don’t blame Colon-Castillo for leaving the program and bolting for the pros.

    Grade for declaring: C



    Gabriel Davis, WR, Central Florida
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 212.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    Gabriel Davis has enjoyed some monster performances this season, creating some buzz in the scouting community. I like him buying high on his stock, as he could end up being a second-round pick.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 315.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.25.
    Projected Round (2020): 5-7.

    Jordan Elliott has impressed team sources during his time at Missouri, so he could be a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Considering that Missouri is undergoing a coaching change, Elliott is making the correct choice.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 265.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.73.
    Projected Round (2020): 1.

    Yetur Gross-Matos is a locked-in first-round prospect who could be chosen in the top 12-20 range. Returning to school would only risk regression and injury, so Gross-Matos is making a great decision.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Isaiah Hodgins, WR, Oregon State
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 203.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    Isaiah Hodgins was considered a UDFA prospect heading into 2019, but he’s coming off a huge season and could sneak into the end of Day 2. He’s more likely to be chosen in the fourth or fifth round, but he’s selling high on his stock, so this is definitely not a bad decision.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Anthony McFarland Jr., RB, Maryland
    Height: 5-9. Weight: 198.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.42.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Anthony McFarland Jr. is an explosive athlete, but was in a terrible situation at Maryland. He’ll likely be chosen late as a result, but I don’t blame him at all for leaving the Terps.

    Grade for declaring: B



    Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 260.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Albert Okwuegbunam is currently the favorite to be the top tight end in the 2020 NFL Draft. I have him going to Dallas in my 2020 NFL Mock Draft. With Missouri changing coaches, Okwuegbunam’s decision is almost a no-brainer.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 195.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.35.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    I don’t blame Jalen Reagor for declaring early, as TCU’s terrible quarterback play has hurt him. I’m sure Reagor is looking forward to playing with a quarterback who can deliver the ball to him. I’ve had Reagor going in the tail end of my 2020 NFL Mock Draft, so this is a good move.

    Grade for declaring: A-



    Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 220.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Laviska Shenault has a chance to be the second or the third wide receiver chosen in the 2020 NFL Draft. Shenault even has a chance to be chosen in the top 10, so it would’ve been a huge mistake to return to Colorado.

    Grade for declaring: A



    J.J. Taylor, RB, Arizona
    Height: 5-6. Weight: 185.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.53.
    Projected Round (2020): 3-5.

    J.J. Taylor could be used like Tarik Cohen in the NFL. He has a chance to be chosen late on Day 2, but probably early on the third day. He’s a running back, so it’s difficult to hate his decision. It would’ve been a mistake for him to return to school.

    Grade for declaring: A



    Josh Uche, 3-4OLB, Michigan
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 250.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Josh Uche is an undersized player, but he’s fast and talented. He’s been productive at Michigan and could end up being a second-day pick, so I like his decision to declare.

    Grade for declaring: B





    2020 NFL Draft Underclassmen Rumors:
  • Alabama QB Tua Tagovailoa hinted that he will enter the 2020 NFL Draft.



    Major Prospects Going Back to School:
    Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford
    Height: 6-1. Weight: 190.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Paulson Adebo was once considered a favorite to be chosen in the first round, but he struggled a bit in 2019. He was in danger of falling into Day 2, so I like his decision to return to school and rebuild his draft stock.

    Grade for returning: A-



    Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
    Height: 5-10. Weight: 200.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.47.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    It amazes me how many running backs aren’t aware of what happened to Bryce Love. The one-time Stanford star was a potential first-round pick, but opted to go back to school. This turned out to be the worst decision of his life because he suffered a devastating injury and lost millions of dollars. There’s no guarantee that the same will become of Travis Etienne or one of the other running backs who foolishly returned to school, but there’s a high-percentage chance that at least one of them will see their draft stock collapse for one reason or another. Given that running backs aren’t durable, this is an easy “F” grade.

    Grade for returning: F



    Najee Harris, RB, Alabama
    Height: 6-2. Weight: 230.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.53.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Najee Harris was once seen as a first-round prospect, but he didn’t quite live up to expectations for the most part at Alabama and is now considered a second-day player. Had he declared, he likely would’ve been a second-round pick. Harris, however, opted to return to school, which is a horrendous decision on his part. It’s possible he could improve his draft stock and thus move up 15-25 draft spots, but there’s probably a greater chance he’ll suffer an injury or continue to disappoint. An injury could knock him into Day 3, which is what happened to Bryce Love. I don’t understand how running backs haven’t learned from Love’s big mistake.

    Grade for returning: D



    Kylin Hill, RB, Mississippi State
    Height: 5-11. Weight: 215.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    I don’t understand this. Kylin Hill is a solid second-day prospect, and yet he’s risking injury by returning to school. The one positive here is that Hill will stand to benefit from Mike Leach, but I don’t see how his stock will improve all that much.

    Grade for returning: D-



    Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 207.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.35.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    This seems like a very foolish and risky decision. Chuba Hubbard clearly didn’t learn from the mistake Bryce Love made a couple of seasons ago. Love was projected to be a first- or a second-round pick, like Hubbard, and he went back to school, where he got hurt and saw his draft stock plummet. Hubbard may not get hurt, but he plays a position that sees players frequently suffer injuries. This could end up being the worst decision Hubbard ever makes in his life. Let’s hope that doesn’t turn out to be the case.

    Grade for returning: F



    Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama
    Height: 6-6. Weight: 322.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.34.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-2.

    Alex Leatherwood stood an outside shot of being a first-round pick this April, but probably would’ve been chosen in the second frame. He easily could’ve declared without any real criticism. However, Leatherwood has immense potential, and with a strong 2020 campaign, he could end up being a top-15 selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Thus, I like his decision to go back to Alabama.

    Grade for returning: A



    Walker Little, OT, Stanford
    Height: 6-7. Weight: 304.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.40.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.
    Walker Little was once seen as a top-10 prospect, but his 2019 campaign was derailed by a slew of injuries. He made the correct call to return to Stanford.

    Grade for returning: A



    Dylan Moses, ILB/OLB, Alabama
    Height: 6-3. Weight: 233.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.62.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    Dylan Moses was considered a first-round lock until he tore his ACL in August. I’ve since moved him into Day 2 of my 2020 NFL Mock Draft, so I like his decision to return to school. Moses can rehabilitate his draft stock with another year at Alabama if he can prove to NFL teams that he’s healthy.

    Grade for returning: A



    Trey Smith, OT/G, Tennessee
    Height: 6-6. Weight: 320.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.32.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Trey Smith would be in top-five consideration if he were healthy. Unfortunately, he had blood clots in his lungs and saw his draft stock drop as a consequence. I’ve had Smith going in the second round of my 2020 NFL Mock Draft, but that was an optimistic projection.

    I like Smith’s decision to return to school. If he can prove that he’s completely healthy next year, he could reenter first-round consideration. Let’s hope that happens.

    Grade for returning: A



    Tamorrion Terry, WR, Florida State
    Height: 6-4. Weight: 203.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
    Projected Round (2020): 1-3.

    Tamorrion Terry had an outside chance of being a first-round pick, but probably would’ve been chosen in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He’ll return to school, where he could develop into a solid first-round choice in the 2021 NFL Draft, so I like this decision. The 2020 NFL Draft wide receiver class is very loaded, so avoiding it has its benefits.

    Grade for returning: B



    Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State
    Height: 6-0. Weight: 185.
    Projected 40 Time: 4.56.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-4.

    Tylan Wallace tore his ACL in the middle of the season, so I can appreciate his decision to go back to school. He can recover and perform well in 2020 to bolster his draft stock. He’s also avoiding a very stacked receiver class by returning to Oklahoma State.

    Grade for returning: A



    Marvin Wilson, DT, Florida State
    Height: 6-5. Weight: 317.
    Projected 40 Time: 5.60.
    Projected Round (2020): 2-3.

    Marvin Wilson was projected to be a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, so his decision to return to school was a bit surprising, especially in the wake of the coaching change. However, Wilson has a chance to improve his draft stock and eventually appear as a first-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Thus, I like Wilson’s decision.

    Grade for returning: B









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