Pauline NFL draft risers, sliders: Week 6

[RS12]

Risers

John Simon/DE/Ohio State: Simon is not a defender who passes the eyeball test as he's neither tall (6-feet-1½), big (258 pounds) or fast (4.8 in the 40-yard dash). Yet the senior is an intense prospect who gets the most from his ability and finds a way to make plays. He was dominant against Nebraska, posting seven tackles [including five for loss], two sacks and one forced fumble. He's likely to fall into the draft's final day, yet a creative NFL defensive coordinator will develop a spot for Simon and use his tools to produce on Sundays.

Levine Toilolo*/TE/Stanford: Cardinal tight end Zach Ertz was a riser last week and this Saturday it was his teammate's turn to shine. Toilo looks more like a power forward on the football field as the athletic 6-7 prospect swiftly moves about the field. He's displayed flashes of brilliance the past two seasons and turned in a breakout game during Stanford's overtime victory over Arizona. Toilo's numbers included five receptions for 141 yards (28.2 per catch average) and two scores. His blocking is better than advertised and he has an abundance of talent. Scouts hope his performance on Saturday is just the beginning.

Conner Vernon/WR/Duke: Don't look now, but the Blue Devils are one victory shy from being bowl eligible and Vernon is a big reason why. The senior set the ACC record for career receptions in the team's win over Virginia. He caught seven passes [giving him 239 for his career] for 93 yards and two touchdowns. Vernon lacks classic athleticism for the next level, yet scouts love his toughness, reliability and football smarts. He's late-round worthy and will end up as a fifth receiver in the NFL.

Alex Okafor/DL/Texas: The Longhorn defense allowed 460 total yards and 48 points in the loss to West Virginia, so its usually tough pointing to any defensive player as a standout. Okafor is the exception as he single-handedly gave Texas the opportunity to take control of the game on several occasions. He registered two tackles for loss, two sacks, forced two fumbles


Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/201...#ixzz28iqtRenp

[RS12]

Braxston Cave/C/Notre Dame: The Irish controlled the line of scrimmage during their 38-point victory over Miami and Cave led the way. Notre Dame finished with 376 rushing yards, much of it running behind Cave. The senior is a blue-collar lineman who brings his lunch pail to work every day and gets the most from his ability. Cave won't blow scouts away with his athleticism, yet the ability to consistently play at a high level will be a draw.

Interesting guy with their ability to run the ball.