Pauline NFL Draft risers, sliders: Week 11

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Risers

D.J. Swearinger, DB -- South Carolina: Swearinger does not receive the notoriety many of his headlining teammates do, yet NFL scouts have taken notice of his play. He's a well-rounded defensive back who usually lines up at safety but can also play cornerback. Swearinger did exactly that against Arkansas and displayed NFL skills throughout the game. The senior lead the Gamecocks defense with 13 tackles and also intercepted a pass in the second half which he returned 69-yards for a score. He's a versatile defender with the size and speed needed to start at the next level. Swearinger could now jump into the third round of the draft.

Devin Smith, CB -- Wisconsin: Smith has shown steady development all season and scouts like his next-level potential. He led the Badgers defense with two interceptions and eight pass break-ups prior to Saturday's showdown with Indiana. Smith then made several critical plays during Wisconsin's 62-14 victory, including a pair of pass defenses and an interception that helped end drives. He was projected as a late-round pick prior to the season, but his ability to line up in man-to-man or zone coverage has elevated his stock.

Chris Jones, DL -- Bowling Green: Jones was considered a future free agent entering the season but has since risen into the middle rounds. The senior has taken his game to another level, producing 17 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks and five quarterback hurries with two games remaining on the schedule. He beats opponents with quickness, hustle as well as smarts and offers potential as a three-technique lineman. Expect Jones to be selected in the middle part of the draft's final day for any team that desires an interior pass rusher.

Corey Fuller, WR -- Virginia Tech


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Ryan Nassib, QB -- Syracuse: Nassib has caught the attention of NFL decision-makers, as the senior is a smart and tough game manager with the arm strength necessary for the next level. He showed a lot of moxy during the Orange's victory over formerly unbeaten Louisville, passing for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns. His throwing statistics told just a fraction of the story. Nassib did a terrific job leading Syracuse's offense and consistently made correct decisions in the pocket. His game comes with a degree of upside and Nassib is a middle-round prospect that teams believe can develop into an NFL starter.

Ryan Swope, WR -- TexasA&M: Swope entered the season as a possibly late-round selection but elevated his draft grade even prior to the contest against Alabama. His dominant performance during A&M's 29-24 victory over the top-ranked Tide will force scouts to continue to revaluate their opinion of Swope. The senior finished the day with 11 receptions for 111 yards and one touchdown. More impressively, Swope came through in the clutch, making spectacular catches during the game's critical moments, including two receptions in the fourth quarter, which moved the Aggies into scoring position. Swope lacks the speed to be used as a vertical receiver, but he plays smart, tough football and offers reliable hands. His game is similar to Broncos receiver Eric Decker and Swope could end up a third-round pick, just like Decker.

Bacari Rambo, S -- Georgia: Rambo has impressed scouts with his consistency and ability to stay away from mental mistakes this season. He's a forceful safety who effectively works with cornerbacks to control the action in the middle of the field. Rambo posted eight tackles and one interception during the win over Auburn and has cemented himself as a middle-round selection.

Three intriguing middle rounders.