Matt Miller's Scouting Notebook

RS12

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"We're worried about Tim Williams' weight and love of the game. His combine weigh-in will be really huge." That's what an area scout texted me this week when I asked about any character concerns he's investigating pre-combine. Williams has top-20 potential but the questions surrounding his character and decision-making could push him to Round 2.

EDGE Derek Rivers, Youngstown State

It's easy to be swayed by Derek Rivers' production at Youngstown State. He had 14 sacks this year and 19.5 tackles for a loss as a 6'5", 250-pound edge player. His player profile is that of a versatile 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker.

Rivers is a player I'm asked about often because of his production, but on film, he looks a little stiff-hipped and lacks the quick-twitch ability to jump the snap and get into the backfield. He is able to win with his motor and tools as a pass-rusher, but for those wanting to project Rivers into the top two rounds, I don't see that kind of athlete.

OL Dion Dawkins, Temple

A three-year starter at left tackle for Temple, Dion Dawkins is an impressive mover for 6'5" and 320 pounds. He's an ideal candidate to kick inside to guard in the pros but is also a player I'd feel comfortable playing at right tackle to see if he can handle the outside speed and power game.

Dawkins' stock keeps rising each time I view his tape. Given his versatility, experience and NFL-ready strength, he is one of the safer offensive line picks in the draft. Don't be surprised if he hears his name called in Round 2.

WR Curtis Samuel, Ohio State

Playing the H-back role at Ohio State—think Braxton Miller or Percy Harvin—Curtis Samuel should have been a Heisman candidate for the work he did with the ball in his hands this season. As an NFL prospect, he's an interesting fit given his usage as a running back and wide receiver in college, but based on his size (5'11", 197 lbs) and shiftiness in space, Samuel is a receiver to me.

Where he'll ultimately land in the draft is up in the air. Samuel may be helped by the impact of Tyreek Hill in Kansas City, given their similarities as playmakers with excellent change-of-direction skills and game-changing speed. I currently have him in Round 2, but a team in the late first round could easily snag Samuel to fill a wildcard role on offense.


http://bleacherreport.com/articles/...yles-garrett-is-the-andrew-luck-of-2017-draft
 
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