Articles:
10 QUESTIONS WITH TWENTYMAN: Which position did Lions improve the most through the draft?: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-questions-with-twentyman-which-position-did-lions-improve-the-most-through-th
Why virtual learning will be important to get Okudah up to speed: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/why-virtual-learning-will-be-important-to-get-okudah-up-to-speed
Matt Patricia marvels at what new Lions LB Jamie Collins adds to defense, locker room: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/matt-patricia-marvels-in-what-new-lions-lb-jamie-collins-adds-to-defense-locker-room.html
The blueprint that will help Lions nail this pandemic offseason: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/05/detroit-lions-matt-patricia-zoom-workouts-group-learning-virtual-offseason/3084716001/
Matt Patricia: Jarrad Davis is a ‘cornerstone’ player, remains in Lions’ plans: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/matt-patricia-jarrad-davis-is-a-cornerstone-player-remains-in-lions-plans.html
How 'fearless' Jason Huntley will help Lions backfield in 2020: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/05/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-pick-jason-huntley-fearless/3077261001/
Matt Patricia not just Lions coach; he plays with Barbies: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/05/detroit-lions-coach-matt-patricia-family-down-time-barbies/3085095001/
Lions’ Ty Johnson pulls his own weight (and a lot more) in creative workout: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/05/lions-ty-johnson-pulls-his-own-weight-and-lot-more-creative-workout/5171573002/
Lions took advantage of scouting the few pro days that took place in 2020: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/05/lions-took-advantage-of-scouting-the-few-pro-days-that-took-place-in-2020/
After Two Years, Patricia Hopes He Is a Better NFL Coach: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/matt-patricia-striving-to-get-better-daily-coaching-lions
Matt Patricia Reveals Post Draft Discussions with Jim Harbaugh: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/matt-patricia-jim-harbaugh-spoke-following-nfl-draft
4 Free Agents Lions Can Still Target on Defense: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/4-free-agents-defense-lions-can-target
Video:
Patricia on first week of virtual offseason program: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/patricia-on-first-week-of-virtual-offseason-program
Catching up with head coach Matt Patricia: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/catching-up-with-head-coach-matt-patricia
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 5-5-20
Articles:
O'HARA: Draft comparisons for the Lions' 2020 rookie class: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-draft-comparisons-for-the-lions-2020-rookie-class-okudah-swift
Watch Lions RB Ty Johnson drag a Jeep during offseason training: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/watch-lions-rb-ty-johnson-drag-a-jeep-during-offseason-training.html
NFL nixes international games for 2020; Detroit Lions were likely to play out of the country: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/nfl-nixes-international-games-for-2020-detroit-lions-were-likely-to-play-out-of-the-country.html
Lions depth chart projection: Starters, key backups for 2020: https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-depth-chart-starters-2020/3062265001/
Jonah Jackson made an incredible impact at OSU. Here's what he's bringing to Lions: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-jonah-jackson-ohio-state-football-nfl/3075126001/
As Lions faltered, their assistants went on to become NFL legends: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-don-shula-bill-belichick/3079601001/
Matt Patricia, Lions used Phase 1 of the offseason to teach players: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/04/matt-patricia-lions-used-phase-1-of-the-offseason-to-teach-players/
Quintez Cephus could create a new role for the Lions offense: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/04/quintez-cephus-could-create-a-new-role-for-the-lions-offense/
3 Lions Position Battles to Watch For in 2020: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-lions-position-battles-in-2020
Why Jeff Okudah in Detroit is a Perfect Fit: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jeff-okudah-in-detroti-is-perfect-fit
Odds for Kenny Golladay Receiving Yards and Why He Will Go Over: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/over-under-kenny-golladay-receiving-yards
Schefter on Stafford: "He’s Good Enough to Win in This League": https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/schefter-believes-stafford-good-enough-to-win-in-nfl
2020 NFL strength of schedule breakdown (Lions schedule is the 7th easiest): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-strength-of-schedule-colts-have-the-easiest-ride-while-falcons-face-tough-tests/
One burning question for each NFC team: Playoffs in the Cards? Pack set at WR? (Detroit Lions: Will D'Andre Swift add a dose of much-needed identity? The Lions under Matt Patricia have talked about morphing into a white-knuckle, beat-you-up offense centered around a punishing ground game. Is that how you think about Detroit's football squad? Me neither. Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn hope to change that with the addition of the second-round back out of Georgia. Comparing Swift to Frank Gore, draft analyst Lance Zierlein labeled Swift as "a cerebral runner who understands block timing and uses quick-cut agility and rare spatial awareness to read and react to defenses." Detroit also houses Kerryon Johnson, a talented back who struggles to stay healthy. Throw Bo Scarbrough into the mix and the Lions have a capable stable. If Detroit is determined to become a ground-and-pound force, though, its fortunes boil down to Swift hitting the scene as a major headache for enemy defenders. If he thrives, the Lions might be on to something.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112706/article/nfc-burning-questions-cardinals-comeup-packers-set-at-wr
The top 25 wide receivers in the NFL (10. Kenny Golladay: Not only did Kenny Golladay lead the NFL in receiving touchdowns last season, but he was also fifth among WRs in yards per target (10.3). His strength to win while contested and after the catch makes him a chore to cover and tackle.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/the-top-25-wide-receivers-in-the-nfl/2/
O'HARA: Draft comparisons for the Lions' 2020 rookie class: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-draft-comparisons-for-the-lions-2020-rookie-class-okudah-swift
Watch Lions RB Ty Johnson drag a Jeep during offseason training: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/watch-lions-rb-ty-johnson-drag-a-jeep-during-offseason-training.html
NFL nixes international games for 2020; Detroit Lions were likely to play out of the country: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/nfl-nixes-international-games-for-2020-detroit-lions-were-likely-to-play-out-of-the-country.html
Lions depth chart projection: Starters, key backups for 2020: https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-depth-chart-starters-2020/3062265001/
Jonah Jackson made an incredible impact at OSU. Here's what he's bringing to Lions: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-jonah-jackson-ohio-state-football-nfl/3075126001/
As Lions faltered, their assistants went on to become NFL legends: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/04/detroit-lions-don-shula-bill-belichick/3079601001/
Matt Patricia, Lions used Phase 1 of the offseason to teach players: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/04/matt-patricia-lions-used-phase-1-of-the-offseason-to-teach-players/
Quintez Cephus could create a new role for the Lions offense: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/04/quintez-cephus-could-create-a-new-role-for-the-lions-offense/
3 Lions Position Battles to Watch For in 2020: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-lions-position-battles-in-2020
Why Jeff Okudah in Detroit is a Perfect Fit: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jeff-okudah-in-detroti-is-perfect-fit
Odds for Kenny Golladay Receiving Yards and Why He Will Go Over: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/over-under-kenny-golladay-receiving-yards
Schefter on Stafford: "He’s Good Enough to Win in This League": https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/schefter-believes-stafford-good-enough-to-win-in-nfl
'Definition of grit': South Dakota State's Luke Sellers gets NFL shot with Detroit Lions: https://www.argusleader.com/story/sports/college/south-dakota-state-university/2020/05/04/definition-grit-south-dakota-states-luke-sellers-gets-nfl-shot-detroit-lions/3079175001/
2020 NFL strength of schedule breakdown (Lions schedule is the 7th easiest): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-strength-of-schedule-colts-have-the-easiest-ride-while-falcons-face-tough-tests/
One burning question for each NFC team: Playoffs in the Cards? Pack set at WR? (Detroit Lions: Will D'Andre Swift add a dose of much-needed identity? The Lions under Matt Patricia have talked about morphing into a white-knuckle, beat-you-up offense centered around a punishing ground game. Is that how you think about Detroit's football squad? Me neither. Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn hope to change that with the addition of the second-round back out of Georgia. Comparing Swift to Frank Gore, draft analyst Lance Zierlein labeled Swift as "a cerebral runner who understands block timing and uses quick-cut agility and rare spatial awareness to read and react to defenses." Detroit also houses Kerryon Johnson, a talented back who struggles to stay healthy. Throw Bo Scarbrough into the mix and the Lions have a capable stable. If Detroit is determined to become a ground-and-pound force, though, its fortunes boil down to Swift hitting the scene as a major headache for enemy defenders. If he thrives, the Lions might be on to something.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112706/article/nfc-burning-questions-cardinals-comeup-packers-set-at-wr
The top 25 wide receivers in the NFL (10. Kenny Golladay: Not only did Kenny Golladay lead the NFL in receiving touchdowns last season, but he was also fifth among WRs in yards per target (10.3). His strength to win while contested and after the catch makes him a chore to cover and tackle.): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/the-top-25-wide-receivers-in-the-nfl/2/
Monday, May 4, 2020
Morning Lions Links for Monday 5-3-20
Articles:
5 things to know about Jeff Okudah: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/5-things-to-know-about-jeff-okudah
Lions coach Matt Patricia's new normal: Grinding tape, virtual meetings and kids: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/03/matt-patricia-detroit-lions-virtual-offseason-nfl/3072909001/
Bob Quinn is happy with where the Lions stand at quarterback: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/03/bob-quinn-is-happy-with-where-the-lions-stand-at-quarterback/
NFC North watch: Bears decline 5th-year option on Mitchell Trubisky: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/03/nfc-north-watch-bears-decline-5th-year-option-on-mitchell-trubisky/
NFL Executive: “I Don’t Think the Defense Will Be Good Enough to Carry Them”: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfl-executive-is-skeptical-of-lions-defense
SI Lions Roundtable: Will Jarrad Davis Be on Roster in 2021?: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/roundtable-will-jarrad-davis-be-on-roster-in-2021
5 things to know about Jeff Okudah: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/5-things-to-know-about-jeff-okudah
Lions coach Matt Patricia's new normal: Grinding tape, virtual meetings and kids: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/03/matt-patricia-detroit-lions-virtual-offseason-nfl/3072909001/
Bob Quinn is happy with where the Lions stand at quarterback: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/03/bob-quinn-is-happy-with-where-the-lions-stand-at-quarterback/
NFC North watch: Bears decline 5th-year option on Mitchell Trubisky: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/03/nfc-north-watch-bears-decline-5th-year-option-on-mitchell-trubisky/
NFL Executive: “I Don’t Think the Defense Will Be Good Enough to Carry Them”: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfl-executive-is-skeptical-of-lions-defense
SI Lions Roundtable: Will Jarrad Davis Be on Roster in 2021?: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/roundtable-will-jarrad-davis-be-on-roster-in-2021
Sunday, May 3, 2020
TE Hunter Bryant
Scouting Reports:
Washington Profile: https://gohuskies.com/sports/football/roster/hunter-bryant/9473
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/hunter-bryant?id=32194252-5939-1906-e1a0-351b1c3f5c6d
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/2020-nfl-draft-profile-strengths-weaknesses-best-fantasy-fits-for-hunter-bryant/
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/hunter-bryant/DCw2EjHKpt
2020 NFL draft: Hunter Bryant scouting report (3-4-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/04/2020-nfl-draft-hunter-bryant-scouting-report/
Athlon: https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2020-nfl-draft-profile-hunter-bryant?amp
Rankings:
Overall:
Draft Tek (50. Hunter Bryant): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Big-Board/Top-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2020-Page-1.asp
Rotoworld Analytics Rankings (68. Hunter Bryant): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=3
SN Top 100 (71. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington (6-2, 248 pounds): Bryant is a dynamic athlete who can get down the seam and cause coverage problems because of his good hands, toughness and quickness finishing routes. He won't provide much early in his NFL career in the way of inline blocking, an area that remains a work in progress.): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2020-big-board-top-players-rankings/1fl3kppyra1bv10c1ghe8bfylh
2020 NFL draft: Don't overlook A.J. Dillon, our No. 79 overall prospect (74. TE Hunter Bryant) (3-12-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-dont-overlook-aj-dillon-as-a-pro-prospect-044220591.html
2020 NFL Draft Big Board: The Draft Wire 300 (74. Hunter Bryant): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-big-board-top-300/
2020 NFL Draft: Final PFF Top 250 Big Board (79. Hunter Bryant: Bryant is a tweener. He also could feasibly be a starter in NFL offenses even if you called him a WR. That's how proficient you have to be to succeed at his size.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-final-pff-top-250-big-board
Draft rankings: Chris Trapasso Top 250 Big Board (117. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-final-top-250-big-board-with-21-receivers-in-the-top-100/
Draft Countdown (118. Hunter Bryant): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-top-overall-rankings/
DJ's final prospect rankings: Who made top 150? (126. Hunter Bryant): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110012/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-150-prospects-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
2020 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Josh Edwards Top 250 big board ends as it started, with Chase Young on top (130. Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-250-big-board-ends-as-it-started-with-chase-young-on-top/
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (148. Hunter Bryant): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (9. Hunter Bryant): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Touchdown Wire's Position Rankings (3. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington:
Bio: Hunter Bryant had scholarship offers from a number of Power 5 schools, including Auburn, Nebraska and Oklahoma, but the Washington native decided to stay close to home and play for the instate Huskies. While in high school, the Eastside Catholic product hauled in 138 passes for 2,483 yards and 35 touchdowns, impressive production at the prep level. Bryant saw minimal action his freshman and sophomore seasons, playing just 195 snaps as a true freshman and 143 as a sophomore. But as a junior in 2019 his production took off. He caught 52 passes on 80 targets for 297 yards – a solid 15.9 average yards per reception 0 and three touchdowns. Stat to Know: Bryant has averaged more than 15 yards per reception each of his three seasons in college. As a freshman he averaged exactly 15.0 yards, and as a sophomore that number jumped to his career-high mark of 21.6. Strengths: After Cole Kmet and Adam Trautman, this tight end class is filled more with players who are either a move-type tight end, or more of the inline blocker type. Bryant right now is more of your move-type tight end who shows flashes of being able to take on increased inline duties in the NFL, but will need some time to grow into that role. Right now his strength is as a receiver, who can operate out of the slot or the wing and use his combination of speed and athletic ability to work himself open against safeties and linebackers. He attacks the football in flight and almost always reaches full extension reaching for the football, avoiding some of the body catch issues that other players struggle with. Bryant does not have a complete route tree on his resume, but what he runs he excels at, as you can see him running away from defenders on post routes, shallow crossers, sit routes versus zone, deep outs on sail concepts, seam routes and wheel routes from the wing. He also checks that competitive toughness box. In his game against California he landed awkwardly on his left wrist but battled through the rest of the game. As a blocker, his best reps come when he can use pre-snap leverage and advantageous angles to his benefit. He can serve as a backside blocker in zone schemes, and executes that slice block working from a wing to the backside on inside zone schemes well. Washington also aligned Bryant as an H-Back at times and you could see him taking on linebackers at the point of attack from that alignment with a favorable angle and a bit of a running head start. Weaknesses: Pro Football Focus charted him with just six drops at Washington, but he was a bit more inconsistent this past season with his hands. The Huskies also seemed to run away from him when he was aligned inline, perhaps not trusting that he could handle inline responsibilities at the point of attack. His frame is more of an H-Back than a true tight end, and his lack of height might limit his options down in the red zone. There were times when Washington would leave him on the sidelines in goal-to-go situations. He also has a bit of an injury history, as a knee injury suffered in 2018 ended his season early. Conclusion: What likely works in his favor is that Bryant is the mold of where NFL offenses are heading. Even teams that operate with a lot of 12 offensive personnel are looking for a move-type tight end who can win mismatches, and that is his calling card in the NFL. His lack of height might limit his options down near the goalline, but what he does in the open field and after the catch is going to convert a lot of third downs in the NFL. You might not leave him in on pass protection and he won’t be the guy you run the football behind on third and short, but if you need someone to beat a linebacker on third and long, he is your guy. Comparison: Another tight end who lacked the height and frame coming out of college was Delaine Walker, and he build himself into more of a prototypical tight end. Bryant would be wise to study a lot of the Tennessee Titans standout as he looks to transition to the NFL.): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/07/scouting-breakdown-the-11-best-tight-ends-in-the-2020-nfl-draft/
Articles:
2020 NFL Draft Superlatives: Tight End (BEST AFTER CATCH: HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON - This is where the Washington tight end is head-and-shoulders above the rest. He broke 18 tackles on only 85 career catches and turned into a hulked-up wide receiver with the ball in his hands. He can not only pinball off would-be tacklers, but also shake defenders in the open field.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2020-nfl-draft-superlatives-tight-end
2020 NFL Draft TE Rankings (Hunter Bryant: (6’2/241) declared after a 52-852-3 junior season, but surprisingly disappointed with 16th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism at the NFL Combine. At Washington, he led the draft class by accounting for 26% of his team’s receiving yards and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end with at least 250 receiving snaps since 2014 per PFF. On tape, he looked faster than his 4.74-second forty time and profiles as a potential mismatch from the slot against slower defenders, but he must go to the right system. He won’t be a consistent run-blocker or red zone weapon in the NFL because of his size. A 21-year-old boom-or-bust prospect with an Evan Engram-like playing style, Bryant offers the passing-down traits to be a team’s No. 1 receiving tight end if his knees cooperate. ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries limited him to just 14 games as a freshman and sophomore. Rankings - Winks: TE5. Analytics Top 300 Model: TE2. Consensus: TE4) (4-3-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/2020-nfl-draft-te-rankings
Pro Day Dilemma: Who Is Missing Out (BAD NFL COMBINE CATEGORY - Washington TE Hunter Bryant: It is one thing for a tight end to be undersized. It is one thing for a tight end to have up-and-down film with clear lapses in catch ability. It is one thing to have a dreadful outing at the NFL Combine. When a player fits into all three categories, though? Bad news. Hunter Bryant weighed in at 6-foot-2 and 248-pounds, making him an oddly thick yet undersized tight end. The U-Dub tight end also measured in the 13th percentile in arm length, which is not the best for a position which will need to handle defensive ends at the line of scrimmage. What could have saved Bryant’s poor frame measurements, however, was a killer showing during the athletic testing drills, but Bryant came in about average or worse in just about every category. Bryant’s jumps were average. His short-shuttle measured in the 30th percentile. With a 4.74s 40-yard dash, Bryant posted a modest time, but one that looks far less impressive when considering his size. Bryant’s only area of clear success in the drills was during the three-cone drill, where he hit 7.08s to measure in the 66th percentile. At Washington’s now-pretend Pro Day, Bryant could take a few ticks off that 40-yard dash while perhaps adding a few inches to each of his jumps. Though not major improvement, the slight bumps could have moved his athletic profile from below-average to passable. In a weak tight end class, even a minor bump like that could mean plenty of draft slots.) (3-25-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/pro-day-dilemma-who-missing-out
2020 NFL Draft: Player comps for PFF's top wide receivers and tight ends (HUNTER BRYANT: GERALD EVERETT - Each is undersized with plus movement skills, which makes it tough to get the job done as a traditional tight end in the league. Bryant’s usage in the NFL almost has to come similarly as an off-the-line wing player. He’s not going to go toe-to-toe with defensive ends, so why even bother? Neither is the most impressive testing athlete, but they both turn into running backs with the ball in their hands.) (3-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-2020-nfl-draft-player-comps-for-pffs-top-wide-receivers-and-tight-ends
Stock up, stock down for prospects after the NFL Scouting Combine (Down - TE Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant had an average-at-best week at the Combine, on top of injury issues in the past. When on the field, though, Bryant has shown a lot of promise. He’s posted a 91.7 receiving grade on his 120 career targets — a figure that ranks among the five best among tight ends since 2017. He was a winner after the catch by breaking 18 tackles on his 85 catches while averaging 7.6 yards after catch per reception. The big reason why Bryant is so down after his subpar Combine is because he looks more like a receiver than a tight end — and the numbers he put up would be horrendous for a receiver.) (3-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-stock-up-stock-down-for-prospects-after-the-nfl-scouting-combine
2020 NFL Combine Risers And Fallers (Fallers - 5. Hunter Bryant - Was expecting high-end speed, but he ran 4.74 in the forty.) (2-28-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/combine-breakdown/2020-nfl-combine-risers-and-fallers
Winners, losers from Day 1 of 2020 NFL Scouting Combine (Loser – Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington: Bryant is a natural pass catcher, but he ran slower than expected and his blocking was underwhelming when attempting to push the sled.) (2-28-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/nfl-combine-winners-losers-day-1-justin-herbert-denzel-mims-jalen-hurts-henry-ruggs/
2020 NFL Draft: Tight End Rankings (4. Hunter Bryant, Washington (JR, 6'2", 248 pounds) - Best utilized flexed out and as a move tight end, Bryant was highly productive as a receiver and finished 2019 with 52 catches for 825 yards (15.9 Y/R) and three touchdowns with at least 5/82 in each of his final four games. Creating matchup problems in the passing game, Bryant has excellent ball skills and run-after-catch ability, although he ran a slower-than-expected 4.74, 40 at a bulked-up 248 pounds in Indianapolis. Knee injuries limited him to just 14 games as a freshman and sophomore.) (2-13-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/02/13/nfl-draft-2020-tight-end-rankings-best-prospects
2020 NFL Draft: Tight end rankings (Hunter Bryant, Washington: If Cole Kmet is a more traditional tight end, Hunter Bryant is an athlete who happens to be listed at tight end. He can line up anywhere -- inline, slot, H-back, out wide -- and in many ways reminds us of Evan Engram. He's not a great blocker, but that's not why you would draft him, either. But Hunter does run really good routes and has the speed to beat linebackers and even safeties down the field. Drops are the biggest red flag -- he dropped 9.7 percent of the catchable targets last season, according to Sports Info Solutions. Those drops appear to be focus-based and not from some inherent flaw in how he catches the football. Still, unless Bryant can convince NFL teams that he can be more consistent in that area, he'll likely slip in the draft. That said, he has game-changing skills and you saw that often during the 2019 season when he was on the receiving end of 52 Jacob Eason passes and averaged an impressive 15.9 yards per reception.) (2-13-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-tight-end-rankings-cole-kmet-leads-the-way-but-playmakers-available-in-later-rounds/
Early NFL Draft TE Rankings (Analytics) (Projected Overall Draft Pick: 76th. Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) is a highly productive, slot tight end who moves like a wide receiver. He accounted for 26% of Washington’s receiving yards (the best team share of years in the class) and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end since 2014 (min. 250 receiving snaps) per PFF. His speed off the line of scrimmage and his in-air adjustments are fantastic traits and should translate in a modern NFL offense, at least between the 20s. Bryant failed to convert any of his seven red zone targets for touchdowns in 2019, however. He lined up all over the field (slot, inline, fullback, etc.) but doesn’t profile as a traditional run-blocking tight end given his size, even though he is a willing blocker. Perhaps his red zone efficiency and blocking ability improve with age since he will just be turning 22 years old when his rookie season starts. Expect Bryant to improve his draft stock at the Combine. Situational Stats: 2019 YPR on non-red zone targets: 15.5 (4th). 2018 and 2019 touchdown rate on red zone targets: 0% on just seven targets (18th). Where he lined up the most: slot) (2-13-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/early-nfl-draft-te-rankings-analytics
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight Ends (1. HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON (Draft Board Rank: 79th): At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Bryant is a tight end in name only at this point. I wouldn't write off the true junior from becoming a complete tight end just yet, though, as Delanie Walker came into the NFL a shade over 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds before eventually becoming one of the best blockers at the position among starters. Bryant has movement skills that you simply can't teach for a man that big; he looks like a wide receiver out there and has produced like one, as well.) (1-31-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-ends
PFF favorites in the 2020 NFL Draft (TE HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON - When Bryant has been on the football field for the Huskies, he’s produced at an elite level — it’s the whole “on the football field” part that was a struggle for Bryant his first couple seasons for the Huskies. He was stuck behind Drew Sample as a freshman/sophomore and missed much of 2018 with an offseason knee surgery. Because of that, he only saw 338 snaps over those two seasons, but still managed 569 yards on them. Fully healthy in 2019, Bryant broke out in a big way with 52 catches for 825 yards. Over his three-year career, Bryant has averaged 2.74 yards per route. For comparison, only FAU’s Harrison Bryant averaged more than that among full-time tight ends this past season. The Washington tight end is a bit of a tweener size-wise, but his movement skills are closer to a receiver than a tight end.) (1-14-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-under-the-radar-sleepers-prospects-2020
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls III (Up - Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington - Bryant was one of the top receiving tight ends in college football in 2019, snatching 52 passes for 825 yards with three touchdowns. That was a huge jump in production from his sophomore (11-238-1) and freshman years (22-331-1). Given his lack of size, the 6-foot-2, 239-pounder could be limited in the NFL to a role player because isn't big enough to be a blocker. However, he could be a good fit as a rotational receiving tight end and a solid mid-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.) (12-25-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_17.php
Saturday Bowl Game (Washington tight end Hunter Bryant will be sitting out of the bowl game, but he is one of the best, if not the best, tight ends in this entire draft class.) (12-21-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-camellia-las-vegas-and-new-orleans-bowls/
Washington TE Hunter Bryant declares for 2020 NFL draft (12-18-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/18/2020-nfl-draft-hunter-bryant-washington-declares/
Prospects to watch in Las Vegas Bowl (Hunter Bryant, TE: Bryant is listed as a tight end but is essentially a large wideout who occasionally plays in line to block. In that area, he's not brutal but won't move defensive ends at the next level. As a receiver, he glides down the field after the ball is in his hands and can create separation at the intermediate level. He's reeled in 52 passes for 825 yards with three scores this season for the Huskies.) (12-17-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/las-vegas-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-washington-vs-boise-state/
College football: 2019 All-Draft Stock Team (TE HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON: After injuries limited him to 338 snaps in his first two seasons combined, Bryant needed to prove he could stay healthy and produce on more snaps. With the third-highest yards per route run among tight ends in the country (2.71) and the 20th most routes (304), Bryant ticked both of those boxes in his junior season. He’s a bit of a tweener, but he has a combination of athleticism and receiving ability that no other tight end in the country can match.) (12-10-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-all-draft-stock-team
2020 NFL Draft: Top-five players at each offensive position entering College Football Week 13 (1. Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant will never be a value add as an inline blocker. That’s ok, it’s 2019. He’s a tweener that could pass for a receiver if need be. He’s got 647 yards on 41 catches and broken eight tackles on the season.) (11-20-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-five-players-at-each-offensive-position-college-football-week-13
College Football Week 10 Eckrich Pac 12 Team of the Week (TIGHT END - Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant did his best against Utah, but the Huskies came just short, losing 33-28 to the Utes. He exploded for a nation-best 105 yards and two touchdowns to boot. He was able to make plays once the ball was in his hands as well, gaining the country’s second-most yards after the catch with 49.) (11-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-10-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
CFB Week 10 Risers amd Sliders: Andrew Thomas’ draft stock is rising (Risers - Hunter Bryant/TE/Washington: Though it was a tough loss for the Washington Huskies, it was a bit of coming out party for Bryant who caught 6 passes for 105 yards and 2 TD’s against the very tough Utah defense. Bryant has 36 receptions this season, averaging 15.5 yards per reception, a testament to his field-stretching and big play ability. I gave Bryant a fifth round grade entering the season simply due to the fact he wasn’t the featured tight end for Washington last season. Considering his play this year and the ability shown, a second day calling of his name is in line for Bryant if he enters the draft.) (11-4-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-2019-week-10-risers-sliders-tony-pauline/
College Football Week 5: Eckrich Pac-12 Team of the Week (Hunter Bryant, Washington: Like his fellow Husky above, Bryant still produced in spite of the passing game as a whole not playing to the level it normally does. He had five throws go his way, grabbing four for 49 yards and three first downs, leading all tight ends in the conference. Bryant showed his athletic ability, forcing two missed tackles and gaining 35 yards after the catch.) (9-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-5-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
NCAA College Football Live Blog: Week 5 (Hunter Bryant is a tight end that too many people are sleeping on. He’s an athletic pass catcher that splits the seam to create miss-matches in the secondary. I like his hands and feel he’ll be a good move tight end at the next level. TP) (9-28-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ncaa-college-football-live-blog-week-5/
2020 NFL Draft prospect Rankings: Top-five players at each offensive position (2. Hunter Bryant: He may be more H-back than tight end, but the days of asking tight ends to set the edge in the run game snap after snap are long gone. It is a receiving position, and the ability to win in multiple different alignments is now more valuable than any work in the run game. No one has won more consistently as a receiver at the tight end position in recent years in college football than Bryant. He moves like a wide receiver in a 6-2, 240-pound package. He also produces like a wide receiver, averaging 3.85 yards per route this season which ranks 10th among all players in the country. ) (9-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-on-offense
College Football Week 3: Risers and Fallers on the PFF 2020 NFL Draft Board (Small Sample Sizes - There were two key players I chose not to rank this preseason because the sample sizes were too small to include: Alabama cornerback Trevon Diggs (464 career snaps prior to 2019) and Washington tight end Hunter Bryant (338). I could obviously tell both were talented, but it felt like a fool’s errand to try and put a hard number on them with so little football played. Now, I’ve seen enough to know they’re no fluke. Diggs had a gorgeous interception against Duke in Week 1 and has only allowed three catches on nine targets for 37 yards on the season. Bryant has been dominating since his freshman year when he’s been on the field but had seen even less time than Diggs. Through three games this season, he’s tops among tight ends in the country averaging 4.72 yards per route run — that’s nearly two yards more than the next closest tight end. Only Oklahoma State’s Tylan Wallace has averaged more among all players in college football. He’ll have the ‘tweener label coming out at 6-2, 240 pounds, but his receiving skills are as good as it gets at the tight end position in the country.) (9-18-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-3-risers-and-fallers-on-the-pff-2020-nfl-draft-board
College Football Week 3 Eckrich Team (TIGHT END - Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant was the only tight end in the country to go over 100 receiving yards on the weekend, turning five receptions into 115 total yards. He gained 73 of those after the catch and saw a perfect 158.3 passer rating on his targets.) (9-15-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-3-eckrich-team-of-the-week
PFF's signature stat leaders through Week 2 of the 2019 college football season (Yards Per Route Run (tight ends) - 1. Josh Pederson, Louisiana Monroe – 3.93. 2. Hunter Bryant, Washington – 3.67. Pederson has been targeted on 44% of his routes, while Bryant has been targeted 33% of his. The two have combined to catch 19-of-23 targets for 227 yards. Pederson caught six of his nine targets for 85 yards in the Warhawks' 1-point overtime loss to Florida State this past weekend.) (9-13-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pffs-signature-stat-leaders-through-week-2-of-the-2019-college-football-season
Washington Profile: https://gohuskies.com/sports/football/roster/hunter-bryant/9473
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/hunter-bryant?id=32194252-5939-1906-e1a0-351b1c3f5c6d
CBS: https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/2020-nfl-draft-profile-strengths-weaknesses-best-fantasy-fits-for-hunter-bryant/
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/hunter-bryant/DCw2EjHKpt
2020 NFL draft: Hunter Bryant scouting report (3-4-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/04/2020-nfl-draft-hunter-bryant-scouting-report/
Athlon: https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2020-nfl-draft-profile-hunter-bryant?amp
Rankings:
Overall:
Draft Tek (50. Hunter Bryant): https://www.drafttek.com/2020-NFL-Draft-Big-Board/Top-NFL-Draft-Prospects-2020-Page-1.asp
Rotoworld Analytics Rankings (68. Hunter Bryant): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=3
SN Top 100 (71. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington (6-2, 248 pounds): Bryant is a dynamic athlete who can get down the seam and cause coverage problems because of his good hands, toughness and quickness finishing routes. He won't provide much early in his NFL career in the way of inline blocking, an area that remains a work in progress.): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2020-big-board-top-players-rankings/1fl3kppyra1bv10c1ghe8bfylh
2020 NFL draft: Don't overlook A.J. Dillon, our No. 79 overall prospect (74. TE Hunter Bryant) (3-12-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-dont-overlook-aj-dillon-as-a-pro-prospect-044220591.html
2020 NFL Draft Big Board: The Draft Wire 300 (74. Hunter Bryant): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-big-board-top-300/
2020 NFL Draft: Final PFF Top 250 Big Board (79. Hunter Bryant: Bryant is a tweener. He also could feasibly be a starter in NFL offenses even if you called him a WR. That's how proficient you have to be to succeed at his size.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-final-pff-top-250-big-board
Top 103 Prospects For The 2020 NFL Draft (81. Hunter Bryant.): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3254/Top-103-Prospects-For-The-2020-NFL-Draft
WINKS' TOP 100 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS (81. Hunter Bryant - TE5: Bryant (6’2/241) declared after a 52-852-3 junior season, but surprisingly disappointed with 16th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism at the NFL Combine. At Washington, he led the draft class by accounting for 26% of his team’s receiving yards and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end with at least 250 receiving snaps since 2014 per PFF. On tape, he looked faster than his 4.74-second 40- time and profiles as a potential mismatch from the slot against slower defenders, but he must go to the right system. He won’t be a consistent run-blocker or red zone weapon in the NFL because of his size. A 21-year-old boom-or-bust prospect with an Evan Engram-like playing style, Bryant offers the passing-down traits to be a team’s No. 1 receiving tight end if his knees cooperate. ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries limited him to just 14 games as a freshman and sophomore.): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/winks-top-100-nfl-draft-prospects
CBS (84. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Hot 150: Gil Brandt's top-ranked prospects for 2020 NFL Draft (84. Hunter Bryant): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109120/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2020-nfl-draft
ESPN (86. Bryant: Bryant tracks the ball well and plays faster than his timed speed. He's an above-average open-field runner. He has the occasional drop, but he has big hands and makes tough contested catches. He's a willing lead blocker, too. He lacks the size and strength to be an effective in-line blocker at the NFL level. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/bestavailable/_/position/te
THOR 500: NYSTROM'S BIG BOARD (108. Hunter Bryant): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thor-500-nystroms-big-board-0
Draft rankings: Ryan Wilson Top 250 (110. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-two-receivers-crack-top-10-two-running-backs-in-top-25-and-entire-top-250/
SI Top 255 Big Board 3.0 (117. Hunter Bryant): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/19/draft-big-board-updated-top-255-prospectsWINKS' TOP 100 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS (81. Hunter Bryant - TE5: Bryant (6’2/241) declared after a 52-852-3 junior season, but surprisingly disappointed with 16th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism at the NFL Combine. At Washington, he led the draft class by accounting for 26% of his team’s receiving yards and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end with at least 250 receiving snaps since 2014 per PFF. On tape, he looked faster than his 4.74-second 40- time and profiles as a potential mismatch from the slot against slower defenders, but he must go to the right system. He won’t be a consistent run-blocker or red zone weapon in the NFL because of his size. A 21-year-old boom-or-bust prospect with an Evan Engram-like playing style, Bryant offers the passing-down traits to be a team’s No. 1 receiving tight end if his knees cooperate. ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries limited him to just 14 games as a freshman and sophomore.): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/winks-top-100-nfl-draft-prospects
CBS (84. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/
Hot 150: Gil Brandt's top-ranked prospects for 2020 NFL Draft (84. Hunter Bryant): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001109120/article/hot-150-gil-brandts-topranked-prospects-for-2020-nfl-draft
ESPN (86. Bryant: Bryant tracks the ball well and plays faster than his timed speed. He's an above-average open-field runner. He has the occasional drop, but he has big hands and makes tough contested catches. He's a willing lead blocker, too. He lacks the size and strength to be an effective in-line blocker at the NFL level. -- Steve Muench): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/bestavailable/_/position/te
THOR 500: NYSTROM'S BIG BOARD (108. Hunter Bryant): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/thor-500-nystroms-big-board-0
Draft rankings: Ryan Wilson Top 250 (110. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-two-receivers-crack-top-10-two-running-backs-in-top-25-and-entire-top-250/
Draft rankings: Chris Trapasso Top 250 Big Board (117. Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-final-top-250-big-board-with-21-receivers-in-the-top-100/
Draft Countdown (118. Hunter Bryant): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-top-overall-rankings/
DJ's final prospect rankings: Who made top 150? (126. Hunter Bryant): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110012/article/daniel-jeremiahs-top-150-prospects-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class
2020 NFL Draft prospect rankings: Josh Edwards Top 250 big board ends as it started, with Chase Young on top (130. Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-250-big-board-ends-as-it-started-with-chase-young-on-top/
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (148. Hunter Bryant): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Position:
PFF (1. HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON
Draft Board Rank: 79th: At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Bryant is a tight end in name only at this point. I wouldn't write off the true junior from becoming a complete tight end just yet, though, as Delanie Walker came into the NFL a shade over 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds before eventually becoming one of the best blockers at the position among starters. Bryant has movement skills that you simply can't teach for a man that big; he looks like a wide receiver out there and has produced like one, as well.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-ends
Draft Tek (1. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.drafttek.com/m/positionals2020/Top-College-Tight-Ends-2020-Draft.asp
Draftwire CB Rankings (2. TE Hunter Bryant): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-tight-end-cole-kmet-hunter-bryant-chase-claypool/
Rotoworld Analytics Position Rankings (2. TE Hunter Bryant: 96th percentile athlete with no sloppy film): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=0
CBS (3. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/tight-ends
FTW TE Rankings (4. Hunter Bryant, Washington: At 6-2, Bryant is undersized for the tight end position. He did put on weight before the combine but ended up running slower than expected, which makes you wonder if he’ll keep that weight on. Even if he does, he’s a tweener who might be more of a receiver than tight end. Bryant wasn’t much of a blocker at Washington, and it shows in his usage. He lined up in the slot more often than he lined up at a traditional tight end spot attached to the offensive line. Some might bill him as a “mismatch guy,” but Bryant is not someone you’re going to isolate one-on-one and expect him to win a matchup. He does most of his damage on straighter routes (drags, seam routes, fades, etc.), but he does have some ability after the catch. Bryant will be a scheme-dependent player at the next level.): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-top-10-tight-ends
ESPN (5. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/bestavailable/_/position/te
Thor's Tight End Rankings (5. Hunter Bryant (SPARQ percentile: 32.3, Adjusted SPARQ: .16, RAS: 6.78, Comp: Gerald Everett (PFF)): A top-150 overall recruit coming out of the greater Seattle area, Bryant elected to stay home and play for the Huskies. The first two years of his career featured flashes and frustration in equal measure. Bryant elbowed his way into playing time immediately as a true freshman on a team that also had future NFL players Cade Otton, Drew Sample and Will Dissly in the tight ends room, posting a 22-333-1 line in nine games before suffering an ACL and MCL injury in the UCLA game. When he returned for spring ball, he tore his meniscus, which kept him out of commission until the final five games of his sophomore year. Bryant needed to stay healthy as a junior, and he needed a big season. Mission accomplished on both fronts. He posted a 52-825-3 line over 12 games in 2019, skipping the Las Vegas Bowl to prepare for the draft. Bryant saw fewer snaps (627) than fellow tight end Otton (869) and was used in a much more specialized way, as you’ll see in the NFL. Of those 627 snaps, 297 came in the slot, 271 came inline, and 29 apiece came in the backfield or out wide. Bryant dispelled concerns over his problematic knee last fall. He’s a big-play maven (16.4 career YPC) who threatens downfield and is trouble to deal with when he has the ball in his hands (18 broken tackles on 85 career catches, per PFF). Get him the ball quick and let him manufacture yards, or send him down the seam. The hands and ball skills are natural on tape. But it’s worth noting that he dropped five balls last year while posting a rough 21.4% contested catch percentage when finally seeing regular snaps. Not great for a move tight end, Bob.(11-238-1). Bryant is basically a wide receiver with wonky dimensions (6’2/240) -- Delanie Walker’s build (or close to Dez Bryant, if you prefer). Bryant himself evokes Walker when asked for a comp, along with a recent move-TE to enter the pros: "I like Evan Engram a lot in the pass game. I like Delanie Walker in the run game. They're both similar size to me and they're very elite players. I look at them." But Walker was a great blocker and Bryant doesn’t block at all. Bryant conceded at the NFL Combine that teams had brought this up to him as the area he needed to work on, not a surprising admission. Health remains a concern (964 snaps over three seasons), though it’s fair to note that Bryant hasn’t missed a game since returning at the end of his sophomore year. I’ve always struggled with Bryant. He’s an injury-prone one-trick pony, and a tweener to boot. But luckily for him, his one trick is quite valuable.) (3-27-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-tight-end-rankings
Draft Countdown (5. TE Hunter Bryant): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-tight-end-rankings/
Walterfootball Position Rankings (6. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington - 4/21/20: Bryant was one of the top receiving tight ends in 2019, recording 52 receptions for 825 yards and three touchdowns. In the NFL, Bryant will have to be a rotational receiving tight end as he doesn't have size to be a three-down tight end who contributes as a blocker. He also ran slower than expected at the combine, putting up a poor time for a receiving tight end.): https://walterfootball.com/draft2020TE.phpPFF (1. HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON
Draft Board Rank: 79th: At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Bryant is a tight end in name only at this point. I wouldn't write off the true junior from becoming a complete tight end just yet, though, as Delanie Walker came into the NFL a shade over 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds before eventually becoming one of the best blockers at the position among starters. Bryant has movement skills that you simply can't teach for a man that big; he looks like a wide receiver out there and has produced like one, as well.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-ends
Draft Tek (1. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.drafttek.com/m/positionals2020/Top-College-Tight-Ends-2020-Draft.asp
Draftwire CB Rankings (2. TE Hunter Bryant): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/2020-nfl-draft-rankings-tight-end-cole-kmet-hunter-bryant-chase-claypool/
Rotoworld Analytics Position Rankings (2. TE Hunter Bryant: 96th percentile athlete with no sloppy film): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/analytics-top-300-rankings-2020-nfl-draft?page=0
CBS (3. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/tight-ends
FTW TE Rankings (4. Hunter Bryant, Washington: At 6-2, Bryant is undersized for the tight end position. He did put on weight before the combine but ended up running slower than expected, which makes you wonder if he’ll keep that weight on. Even if he does, he’s a tweener who might be more of a receiver than tight end. Bryant wasn’t much of a blocker at Washington, and it shows in his usage. He lined up in the slot more often than he lined up at a traditional tight end spot attached to the offensive line. Some might bill him as a “mismatch guy,” but Bryant is not someone you’re going to isolate one-on-one and expect him to win a matchup. He does most of his damage on straighter routes (drags, seam routes, fades, etc.), but he does have some ability after the catch. Bryant will be a scheme-dependent player at the next level.): https://ftw.usatoday.com/2020/04/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-top-10-tight-ends
ESPN (5. TE Hunter Bryant): https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/bestavailable/_/position/te
Thor's Tight End Rankings (5. Hunter Bryant (SPARQ percentile: 32.3, Adjusted SPARQ: .16, RAS: 6.78, Comp: Gerald Everett (PFF)): A top-150 overall recruit coming out of the greater Seattle area, Bryant elected to stay home and play for the Huskies. The first two years of his career featured flashes and frustration in equal measure. Bryant elbowed his way into playing time immediately as a true freshman on a team that also had future NFL players Cade Otton, Drew Sample and Will Dissly in the tight ends room, posting a 22-333-1 line in nine games before suffering an ACL and MCL injury in the UCLA game. When he returned for spring ball, he tore his meniscus, which kept him out of commission until the final five games of his sophomore year. Bryant needed to stay healthy as a junior, and he needed a big season. Mission accomplished on both fronts. He posted a 52-825-3 line over 12 games in 2019, skipping the Las Vegas Bowl to prepare for the draft. Bryant saw fewer snaps (627) than fellow tight end Otton (869) and was used in a much more specialized way, as you’ll see in the NFL. Of those 627 snaps, 297 came in the slot, 271 came inline, and 29 apiece came in the backfield or out wide. Bryant dispelled concerns over his problematic knee last fall. He’s a big-play maven (16.4 career YPC) who threatens downfield and is trouble to deal with when he has the ball in his hands (18 broken tackles on 85 career catches, per PFF). Get him the ball quick and let him manufacture yards, or send him down the seam. The hands and ball skills are natural on tape. But it’s worth noting that he dropped five balls last year while posting a rough 21.4% contested catch percentage when finally seeing regular snaps. Not great for a move tight end, Bob.(11-238-1). Bryant is basically a wide receiver with wonky dimensions (6’2/240) -- Delanie Walker’s build (or close to Dez Bryant, if you prefer). Bryant himself evokes Walker when asked for a comp, along with a recent move-TE to enter the pros: "I like Evan Engram a lot in the pass game. I like Delanie Walker in the run game. They're both similar size to me and they're very elite players. I look at them." But Walker was a great blocker and Bryant doesn’t block at all. Bryant conceded at the NFL Combine that teams had brought this up to him as the area he needed to work on, not a surprising admission. Health remains a concern (964 snaps over three seasons), though it’s fair to note that Bryant hasn’t missed a game since returning at the end of his sophomore year. I’ve always struggled with Bryant. He’s an injury-prone one-trick pony, and a tweener to boot. But luckily for him, his one trick is quite valuable.) (3-27-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/thors-tight-end-rankings
Draft Countdown (5. TE Hunter Bryant): http://draftcountdown.com/2020-nfl-draft-rankings/2020-tight-end-rankings/
Tony Pauline’s 2020 NFL Draft Rankings (9. Hunter Bryant): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-rankings-scouting-reports-tony-pauline/
Touchdown Wire's Position Rankings (3. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington:
Bio: Hunter Bryant had scholarship offers from a number of Power 5 schools, including Auburn, Nebraska and Oklahoma, but the Washington native decided to stay close to home and play for the instate Huskies. While in high school, the Eastside Catholic product hauled in 138 passes for 2,483 yards and 35 touchdowns, impressive production at the prep level. Bryant saw minimal action his freshman and sophomore seasons, playing just 195 snaps as a true freshman and 143 as a sophomore. But as a junior in 2019 his production took off. He caught 52 passes on 80 targets for 297 yards – a solid 15.9 average yards per reception 0 and three touchdowns. Stat to Know: Bryant has averaged more than 15 yards per reception each of his three seasons in college. As a freshman he averaged exactly 15.0 yards, and as a sophomore that number jumped to his career-high mark of 21.6. Strengths: After Cole Kmet and Adam Trautman, this tight end class is filled more with players who are either a move-type tight end, or more of the inline blocker type. Bryant right now is more of your move-type tight end who shows flashes of being able to take on increased inline duties in the NFL, but will need some time to grow into that role. Right now his strength is as a receiver, who can operate out of the slot or the wing and use his combination of speed and athletic ability to work himself open against safeties and linebackers. He attacks the football in flight and almost always reaches full extension reaching for the football, avoiding some of the body catch issues that other players struggle with. Bryant does not have a complete route tree on his resume, but what he runs he excels at, as you can see him running away from defenders on post routes, shallow crossers, sit routes versus zone, deep outs on sail concepts, seam routes and wheel routes from the wing. He also checks that competitive toughness box. In his game against California he landed awkwardly on his left wrist but battled through the rest of the game. As a blocker, his best reps come when he can use pre-snap leverage and advantageous angles to his benefit. He can serve as a backside blocker in zone schemes, and executes that slice block working from a wing to the backside on inside zone schemes well. Washington also aligned Bryant as an H-Back at times and you could see him taking on linebackers at the point of attack from that alignment with a favorable angle and a bit of a running head start. Weaknesses: Pro Football Focus charted him with just six drops at Washington, but he was a bit more inconsistent this past season with his hands. The Huskies also seemed to run away from him when he was aligned inline, perhaps not trusting that he could handle inline responsibilities at the point of attack. His frame is more of an H-Back than a true tight end, and his lack of height might limit his options down in the red zone. There were times when Washington would leave him on the sidelines in goal-to-go situations. He also has a bit of an injury history, as a knee injury suffered in 2018 ended his season early. Conclusion: What likely works in his favor is that Bryant is the mold of where NFL offenses are heading. Even teams that operate with a lot of 12 offensive personnel are looking for a move-type tight end who can win mismatches, and that is his calling card in the NFL. His lack of height might limit his options down near the goalline, but what he does in the open field and after the catch is going to convert a lot of third downs in the NFL. You might not leave him in on pass protection and he won’t be the guy you run the football behind on third and short, but if you need someone to beat a linebacker on third and long, he is your guy. Comparison: Another tight end who lacked the height and frame coming out of college was Delaine Walker, and he build himself into more of a prototypical tight end. Bryant would be wise to study a lot of the Tennessee Titans standout as he looks to transition to the NFL.): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/07/scouting-breakdown-the-11-best-tight-ends-in-the-2020-nfl-draft/
Articles:
2020 NFL Draft Superlatives: Tight End (BEST AFTER CATCH: HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON - This is where the Washington tight end is head-and-shoulders above the rest. He broke 18 tackles on only 85 career catches and turned into a hulked-up wide receiver with the ball in his hands. He can not only pinball off would-be tacklers, but also shake defenders in the open field.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2020-nfl-draft-superlatives-tight-end
2020 NFL Draft TE Rankings (Hunter Bryant: (6’2/241) declared after a 52-852-3 junior season, but surprisingly disappointed with 16th percentile Adjusted SPARQ athleticism at the NFL Combine. At Washington, he led the draft class by accounting for 26% of his team’s receiving yards and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end with at least 250 receiving snaps since 2014 per PFF. On tape, he looked faster than his 4.74-second forty time and profiles as a potential mismatch from the slot against slower defenders, but he must go to the right system. He won’t be a consistent run-blocker or red zone weapon in the NFL because of his size. A 21-year-old boom-or-bust prospect with an Evan Engram-like playing style, Bryant offers the passing-down traits to be a team’s No. 1 receiving tight end if his knees cooperate. ACL, MCL, and meniscus injuries limited him to just 14 games as a freshman and sophomore. Rankings - Winks: TE5. Analytics Top 300 Model: TE2. Consensus: TE4) (4-3-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/2020-nfl-draft-te-rankings
Pro Day Dilemma: Who Is Missing Out (BAD NFL COMBINE CATEGORY - Washington TE Hunter Bryant: It is one thing for a tight end to be undersized. It is one thing for a tight end to have up-and-down film with clear lapses in catch ability. It is one thing to have a dreadful outing at the NFL Combine. When a player fits into all three categories, though? Bad news. Hunter Bryant weighed in at 6-foot-2 and 248-pounds, making him an oddly thick yet undersized tight end. The U-Dub tight end also measured in the 13th percentile in arm length, which is not the best for a position which will need to handle defensive ends at the line of scrimmage. What could have saved Bryant’s poor frame measurements, however, was a killer showing during the athletic testing drills, but Bryant came in about average or worse in just about every category. Bryant’s jumps were average. His short-shuttle measured in the 30th percentile. With a 4.74s 40-yard dash, Bryant posted a modest time, but one that looks far less impressive when considering his size. Bryant’s only area of clear success in the drills was during the three-cone drill, where he hit 7.08s to measure in the 66th percentile. At Washington’s now-pretend Pro Day, Bryant could take a few ticks off that 40-yard dash while perhaps adding a few inches to each of his jumps. Though not major improvement, the slight bumps could have moved his athletic profile from below-average to passable. In a weak tight end class, even a minor bump like that could mean plenty of draft slots.) (3-25-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/pro-day-dilemma-who-missing-out
2020 NFL Draft: Player comps for PFF's top wide receivers and tight ends (HUNTER BRYANT: GERALD EVERETT - Each is undersized with plus movement skills, which makes it tough to get the job done as a traditional tight end in the league. Bryant’s usage in the NFL almost has to come similarly as an off-the-line wing player. He’s not going to go toe-to-toe with defensive ends, so why even bother? Neither is the most impressive testing athlete, but they both turn into running backs with the ball in their hands.) (3-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-2020-nfl-draft-player-comps-for-pffs-top-wide-receivers-and-tight-ends
Stock up, stock down for prospects after the NFL Scouting Combine (Down - TE Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant had an average-at-best week at the Combine, on top of injury issues in the past. When on the field, though, Bryant has shown a lot of promise. He’s posted a 91.7 receiving grade on his 120 career targets — a figure that ranks among the five best among tight ends since 2017. He was a winner after the catch by breaking 18 tackles on his 85 catches while averaging 7.6 yards after catch per reception. The big reason why Bryant is so down after his subpar Combine is because he looks more like a receiver than a tight end — and the numbers he put up would be horrendous for a receiver.) (3-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-stock-up-stock-down-for-prospects-after-the-nfl-scouting-combine
2020 NFL Combine Risers And Fallers (Fallers - 5. Hunter Bryant - Was expecting high-end speed, but he ran 4.74 in the forty.) (2-28-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/combine-breakdown/2020-nfl-combine-risers-and-fallers
Winners, losers from Day 1 of 2020 NFL Scouting Combine (Loser – Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington: Bryant is a natural pass catcher, but he ran slower than expected and his blocking was underwhelming when attempting to push the sled.) (2-28-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/gallery/nfl-combine-winners-losers-day-1-justin-herbert-denzel-mims-jalen-hurts-henry-ruggs/
Daniel Jeremiah's 2020 NFL Scouting Combine takeaways (Hunter Bryant, Washington (No. 37 to Chargers): "He didn't run as fast as I thought he would, but he's having a good field workout, the way he's moving around.") (2-28-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001103989/article/daniel-jeremiahs-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways
2020 NFL Combine winners: Tight ends (Hunter Bryant (6-2, 248, Washington) was expected to fly based on his game tape, but his 4.73 40-yard-dash, while respectable, was slower than expected.) (2-27-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/27/2020-nfl-combine-winners-from-the-te-group/
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 1 (“Washington TE Hunter Bryant said Utah's Bradlee Anae was the toughest player he faced at the collegiate level, praised him for his size/athleticism.” – Austin Gayle. Bradlee Anae was hands down the best defensive lineman in the Pac-12 conference; he is a top-100 prospect in PFF's eyes. In that matchup, Bryant did let up a pressure in pass protection, but he also posted the highest single-game run-blocking grade of the 2019 season. Bryant's bread and butter isn't his blocking, though, it's his receiving. We saw a taste of this in 2017 and 2018, but injury prevented us from getting the full meal. When healthy in 2019, however, Bryant showed why he's TE1 in this draft class. He averaged 7.7 yards after the catch per reception and broke 10 tackles on his 52 catches. He ended the year with a receiving grade of 82.5 that was among the 10 best at his position in college football.) (2-25-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-1
NFL Scouting Combine Offensive Preview (Hunter Bryant (Washington) – Medical: A physical freak, Bryant will test near the top of the class in whatever athletic fluidity test he’s put through… assuming, of course, he’s healthy enough to run the gamut of them. An undersized move-TE (6’2/239), Bryant additionally comes with health concerns that interested parties are going to have their medical teams pry into in Indy. A problematic knee injury suffered mid-season in 2017 and then re-aggravated in the summer wiped out all but the final five games of Bryant's 2018 season. Bryant returned to appear in every game last year save for the Las Vegas Bowl (he skipped it to prepare for the Draft), but saw fewer snaps (627) than fellow TE Cade Otton (869). Important point on Bryant: 297 of his snaps came in the slot, 271 came inline, 29 apiece came in the backfield or out wide. He’s not an inline guy at the next level, and his medicals need to check out to ensure his athleticism won’t be medically compromised anytime soon.) (2-25-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/nfl-scouting-combine-offensive-preview
Detroit Lions 2020 NFL Combine preview: Tight ends (Hunter Bryant, Washington: Listed at 6-foot-2 239 pounds, he's probably never going to be a consistent in-line option. But as a flex tight end, operating out of the slot, he can be an explosive contributor in the passing game. He had 55 receptions in 2019 and averaged an impressive 16.4 yards per catch during his college career. ) (2-21-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/02/21/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-tight-ends/4759498002/
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: Tight ends (Hunter Bryant, Washington (Suggested by: Scott Bischoff): Bryant is a move tight end who will spend the majority of his time trying to create mismatches in the slot. His athleticism shines when the ball is in the air or after the reception when it’s in his hands, as he routinely generates yards after the catch. His height (est. 6-2) and lack of impactful blocking skills will limit the schemes he will be successful in, but the right fit could be magical.) (2-20-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/20/who-and-what-to-watch-at-the-2020-nfl-combine-tight-ends/
2020 NFL scouting combine preview: Tight ends (Who needs to nail the medical evaluation - Hunter Bryant: The 6-foot-2, 239-pound Bryant reads more like a jacked-up wide receiver than a true in-line, “Y” tight end. Assuming he’s healthy for the event, Bryant is expected to turn heads with his athletic testing portion of the combine. He might not grade out athletically as well as similarly sized Evan Engram or Noah Fant have the past two years, but Bryant likely will test better than Irv Smith Jr., the 50th overall pick of the Minnesota Vikings last year. Washington TE Hunter Bryant has terrific receiving potential, but his medical concerns must be answered. But the questions with Bryant are largely medical. His injury history is rather lengthy. Bryant suffered a knee injury in October 2017 and aggravated it the following summer, finally having surgery on it in June 2018. He returned for the final five games of 2018, not taking a medical redshirt. Bryant was able to stay healthy in 2018, playing in the Huskies’ first 12 games before sitting out the bowl to begin his draft preparation. But the staff also limited his usage a bit, playing fewer snaps than fellow TE Cade Otton, and questions about Bryant’s durability are ultimately going to decide his draft fate.) (2-17-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-scouting-combine-preview-tight-ends-130024482.html
2020 NFL Combine: Tight End Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (9. Hunter Bryant, Washington 6-2, 239 (4): NFL Combine What Matters: Just how much will the scouts care about his lack of bulk? He’s built more like a running back, and there’s a big concern with past knee injuries, but he can really, really catch.) (2-15-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-tight-end-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft: Tight end rankings (Hunter Bryant, Washington: If Cole Kmet is a more traditional tight end, Hunter Bryant is an athlete who happens to be listed at tight end. He can line up anywhere -- inline, slot, H-back, out wide -- and in many ways reminds us of Evan Engram. He's not a great blocker, but that's not why you would draft him, either. But Hunter does run really good routes and has the speed to beat linebackers and even safeties down the field. Drops are the biggest red flag -- he dropped 9.7 percent of the catchable targets last season, according to Sports Info Solutions. Those drops appear to be focus-based and not from some inherent flaw in how he catches the football. Still, unless Bryant can convince NFL teams that he can be more consistent in that area, he'll likely slip in the draft. That said, he has game-changing skills and you saw that often during the 2019 season when he was on the receiving end of 52 Jacob Eason passes and averaged an impressive 15.9 yards per reception.) (2-13-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-tight-end-rankings-cole-kmet-leads-the-way-but-playmakers-available-in-later-rounds/
Early NFL Draft TE Rankings (Analytics) (Projected Overall Draft Pick: 76th. Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) is a highly productive, slot tight end who moves like a wide receiver. He accounted for 26% of Washington’s receiving yards (the best team share of years in the class) and had the highest yards per route run (2.9) of any tight end since 2014 (min. 250 receiving snaps) per PFF. His speed off the line of scrimmage and his in-air adjustments are fantastic traits and should translate in a modern NFL offense, at least between the 20s. Bryant failed to convert any of his seven red zone targets for touchdowns in 2019, however. He lined up all over the field (slot, inline, fullback, etc.) but doesn’t profile as a traditional run-blocking tight end given his size, even though he is a willing blocker. Perhaps his red zone efficiency and blocking ability improve with age since he will just be turning 22 years old when his rookie season starts. Expect Bryant to improve his draft stock at the Combine. Situational Stats: 2019 YPR on non-red zone targets: 15.5 (4th). 2018 and 2019 touchdown rate on red zone targets: 0% on just seven targets (18th). Where he lined up the most: slot) (2-13-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/nfl-draft-preview/early-nfl-draft-te-rankings-analytics
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight Ends (1. HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON (Draft Board Rank: 79th): At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Bryant is a tight end in name only at this point. I wouldn't write off the true junior from becoming a complete tight end just yet, though, as Delanie Walker came into the NFL a shade over 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds before eventually becoming one of the best blockers at the position among starters. Bryant has movement skills that you simply can't teach for a man that big; he looks like a wide receiver out there and has produced like one, as well.) (1-31-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-ends
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls III (Up - Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington - Bryant was one of the top receiving tight ends in college football in 2019, snatching 52 passes for 825 yards with three touchdowns. That was a huge jump in production from his sophomore (11-238-1) and freshman years (22-331-1). Given his lack of size, the 6-foot-2, 239-pounder could be limited in the NFL to a role player because isn't big enough to be a blocker. However, he could be a good fit as a rotational receiving tight end and a solid mid-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.) (12-25-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_17.php
Saturday Bowl Game (Washington tight end Hunter Bryant will be sitting out of the bowl game, but he is one of the best, if not the best, tight ends in this entire draft class.) (12-21-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-camellia-las-vegas-and-new-orleans-bowls/
Washington TE Hunter Bryant declares for 2020 NFL draft (12-18-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/18/2020-nfl-draft-hunter-bryant-washington-declares/
Prospects to watch in Las Vegas Bowl (Hunter Bryant, TE: Bryant is listed as a tight end but is essentially a large wideout who occasionally plays in line to block. In that area, he's not brutal but won't move defensive ends at the next level. As a receiver, he glides down the field after the ball is in his hands and can create separation at the intermediate level. He's reeled in 52 passes for 825 yards with three scores this season for the Huskies.) (12-17-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/las-vegas-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-washington-vs-boise-state/
College football: 2019 All-Draft Stock Team (TE HUNTER BRYANT, WASHINGTON: After injuries limited him to 338 snaps in his first two seasons combined, Bryant needed to prove he could stay healthy and produce on more snaps. With the third-highest yards per route run among tight ends in the country (2.71) and the 20th most routes (304), Bryant ticked both of those boxes in his junior season. He’s a bit of a tweener, but he has a combination of athleticism and receiving ability that no other tight end in the country can match.) (12-10-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-all-draft-stock-team
2020 NFL Draft: Top-five players at each offensive position entering College Football Week 13 (1. Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant will never be a value add as an inline blocker. That’s ok, it’s 2019. He’s a tweener that could pass for a receiver if need be. He’s got 647 yards on 41 catches and broken eight tackles on the season.) (11-20-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-five-players-at-each-offensive-position-college-football-week-13
College Football Week 10 Eckrich Pac 12 Team of the Week (TIGHT END - Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant did his best against Utah, but the Huskies came just short, losing 33-28 to the Utes. He exploded for a nation-best 105 yards and two touchdowns to boot. He was able to make plays once the ball was in his hands as well, gaining the country’s second-most yards after the catch with 49.) (11-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-10-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
CFB Week 10 Risers amd Sliders: Andrew Thomas’ draft stock is rising (Risers - Hunter Bryant/TE/Washington: Though it was a tough loss for the Washington Huskies, it was a bit of coming out party for Bryant who caught 6 passes for 105 yards and 2 TD’s against the very tough Utah defense. Bryant has 36 receptions this season, averaging 15.5 yards per reception, a testament to his field-stretching and big play ability. I gave Bryant a fifth round grade entering the season simply due to the fact he wasn’t the featured tight end for Washington last season. Considering his play this year and the ability shown, a second day calling of his name is in line for Bryant if he enters the draft.) (11-4-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-2019-week-10-risers-sliders-tony-pauline/
College Football Week 5: Eckrich Pac-12 Team of the Week (Hunter Bryant, Washington: Like his fellow Husky above, Bryant still produced in spite of the passing game as a whole not playing to the level it normally does. He had five throws go his way, grabbing four for 49 yards and three first downs, leading all tight ends in the conference. Bryant showed his athletic ability, forcing two missed tackles and gaining 35 yards after the catch.) (9-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-5-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
NCAA College Football Live Blog: Week 5 (Hunter Bryant is a tight end that too many people are sleeping on. He’s an athletic pass catcher that splits the seam to create miss-matches in the secondary. I like his hands and feel he’ll be a good move tight end at the next level. TP) (9-28-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ncaa-college-football-live-blog-week-5/
2020 NFL Draft prospect Rankings: Top-five players at each offensive position (2. Hunter Bryant: He may be more H-back than tight end, but the days of asking tight ends to set the edge in the run game snap after snap are long gone. It is a receiving position, and the ability to win in multiple different alignments is now more valuable than any work in the run game. No one has won more consistently as a receiver at the tight end position in recent years in college football than Bryant. He moves like a wide receiver in a 6-2, 240-pound package. He also produces like a wide receiver, averaging 3.85 yards per route this season which ranks 10th among all players in the country. ) (9-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-on-offense
College Football Week 3: Risers and Fallers on the PFF 2020 NFL Draft Board (Small Sample Sizes - There were two key players I chose not to rank this preseason because the sample sizes were too small to include: Alabama cornerback Trevon Diggs (464 career snaps prior to 2019) and Washington tight end Hunter Bryant (338). I could obviously tell both were talented, but it felt like a fool’s errand to try and put a hard number on them with so little football played. Now, I’ve seen enough to know they’re no fluke. Diggs had a gorgeous interception against Duke in Week 1 and has only allowed three catches on nine targets for 37 yards on the season. Bryant has been dominating since his freshman year when he’s been on the field but had seen even less time than Diggs. Through three games this season, he’s tops among tight ends in the country averaging 4.72 yards per route run — that’s nearly two yards more than the next closest tight end. Only Oklahoma State’s Tylan Wallace has averaged more among all players in college football. He’ll have the ‘tweener label coming out at 6-2, 240 pounds, but his receiving skills are as good as it gets at the tight end position in the country.) (9-18-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-3-risers-and-fallers-on-the-pff-2020-nfl-draft-board
College Football Week 3 Eckrich Team (TIGHT END - Hunter Bryant, Washington: Bryant was the only tight end in the country to go over 100 receiving yards on the weekend, turning five receptions into 115 total yards. He gained 73 of those after the catch and saw a perfect 158.3 passer rating on his targets.) (9-15-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-3-eckrich-team-of-the-week
PFF's signature stat leaders through Week 2 of the 2019 college football season (Yards Per Route Run (tight ends) - 1. Josh Pederson, Louisiana Monroe – 3.93. 2. Hunter Bryant, Washington – 3.67. Pederson has been targeted on 44% of his routes, while Bryant has been targeted 33% of his. The two have combined to catch 19-of-23 targets for 227 yards. Pederson caught six of his nine targets for 85 yards in the Warhawks' 1-point overtime loss to Florida State this past weekend.) (9-13-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pffs-signature-stat-leaders-through-week-2-of-the-2019-college-football-season
2020 NFL Draft: The best prospect matchups of Week 2 (Washington TE Hunter Bryant vs. California LB Evan Weaver - Tight end versus linebacker isn’t a matchup in the traditional one-on-one sense, but there will be a number of times throughout the game that Weaver is tasked with mirroring Bryant in coverage. The Washington tight end has little to prove in this matchup as his six catches for 81 yards against Eastern Washington showed once again that he’s arguably the most dynamic receiving tight end in the country. It’s Weaver’s coverage ability that has much to gain here as he’s on the borderline, athletically speaking, when projecting to the next level. They protect him a lot with spot drops in Cal’s defense, but if he can wrap up Bryant in space, there could be a role for him in the NFL.) (9-5-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-2020-nfl-draft-the-best-prospect-matchups-of-week-2
Top-10 2020 NFL Draft TE Rankings (9. Hunter Bryant (Washington) | 6'2/224: I struggle with Hunter Bryant. He’s a sensational athlete, maybe even the best in the class. As a high schooler, Bryant’s home situation devolved and he’d couch surf while spending every available second at a large local training facility. That easy athleticism is apparent on the field, with 21.6 yards per catch last year and a career 7.6 YAC. Bryant is a nightmare matchup for most collegiate linebackers. But he’s more than undersized -- he's the size of a big wide receiver. Bryant’s listed size is the same as Laviska Shenault’s. NFL fans can use rookie Dez Bryant as Bryant’s size totem. Naturally, Bryant isn’t much of a blocker. Unfortunately, he also comes with major durability issues. Bryant was limited to nine games as a freshman after sustaining an ACL and LCL injury in the UCLA game, and he only played in five games last year after his meniscus popped last spring during spring practice. That injury also required surgery. That level of knee damage over two years on campus for an undersized, one-dimensional tight end is troubling. But Bryant retains prospect shine because of his trump-card athleticism, which he proved he still possesses after running a 4.58 40-yard dash over the spring.) (8-5-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/top-10-2020-nfl-draft-te-rankings
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Tight Ends (HUNTER BRYANT (WASHINGTON, JR) - DAY 2 PROJECTION (Usage: 39% of Hunter Bryant’s offensive snaps were inline and 38% were in the slot, per PFF.) - Athleticism: Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) is the second or third best athlete of the tight ends I’m writing up today, only trailing Grant Calcaterra and maybe Jake Ferguson. Just watch the video below. Bryant should be one of the fastest in the class -- his 4.82 high school forty was strong -- and he has underrated strength, as evidenced by his leading high school power throw. However, his best athletic trait is his fluidity in space (career 7.6 YAC). Simply put, Bryant is a natural athlete. Production: Hunter Bryant had a strong freshman season in 2017 when he posted a 22-231-1 season, but injuries have spoiled huge seasons in two-straight years. He only played in nine games in that freshman season and only played in five games last year. In those five games, Bryant showed he hadn’t lost a step by averaging 21.6 yards per catch. This year, I project Bryant for a 40-459-5 receiving line. If Bryant doesn’t have a big 2019 season, I’ll likely be out on Bryant as a Day 2 prospect. Blocking Ability: Hunter Bryant’s athleticism makes him a capable blocker, but his size (6’2/244) limits his blocking ceiling. That’s alright, though. Bryant shouldn’t be asked to block too often -- his strength is pass-catching -- and he can block well enough if it’s just a few snaps per game. Throwing him in the trenches isn’t putting him positions where he can win.) (8-1-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/2020-nfl-draft-stock-tight-ends
Top 25 College Tight Ends of 2019 (Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) has as much receiving upside as anyone on this list, but his injury history is worrisome. However, Bryant looks ready to go in 2019 and there will be plenty of opportunities for him to shine. In limited action late last year, Bryant lined up all over the field and was utilized as a deep threat, especially when slower linebackers were matched up on him. This draft class is pretty weak overall, so I’m hoping Bryant stays healthy and continues to show the ability to rack up yards after the catch because he can be a riser.) (6-17-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/top-25-college-tight-ends-2019
Top-10 2020 NFL Draft TE Rankings (9. Hunter Bryant (Washington) | 6'2/224: I struggle with Hunter Bryant. He’s a sensational athlete, maybe even the best in the class. As a high schooler, Bryant’s home situation devolved and he’d couch surf while spending every available second at a large local training facility. That easy athleticism is apparent on the field, with 21.6 yards per catch last year and a career 7.6 YAC. Bryant is a nightmare matchup for most collegiate linebackers. But he’s more than undersized -- he's the size of a big wide receiver. Bryant’s listed size is the same as Laviska Shenault’s. NFL fans can use rookie Dez Bryant as Bryant’s size totem. Naturally, Bryant isn’t much of a blocker. Unfortunately, he also comes with major durability issues. Bryant was limited to nine games as a freshman after sustaining an ACL and LCL injury in the UCLA game, and he only played in five games last year after his meniscus popped last spring during spring practice. That injury also required surgery. That level of knee damage over two years on campus for an undersized, one-dimensional tight end is troubling. But Bryant retains prospect shine because of his trump-card athleticism, which he proved he still possesses after running a 4.58 40-yard dash over the spring.) (8-5-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/top-10-2020-nfl-draft-te-rankings
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Tight Ends (HUNTER BRYANT (WASHINGTON, JR) - DAY 2 PROJECTION (Usage: 39% of Hunter Bryant’s offensive snaps were inline and 38% were in the slot, per PFF.) - Athleticism: Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) is the second or third best athlete of the tight ends I’m writing up today, only trailing Grant Calcaterra and maybe Jake Ferguson. Just watch the video below. Bryant should be one of the fastest in the class -- his 4.82 high school forty was strong -- and he has underrated strength, as evidenced by his leading high school power throw. However, his best athletic trait is his fluidity in space (career 7.6 YAC). Simply put, Bryant is a natural athlete. Production: Hunter Bryant had a strong freshman season in 2017 when he posted a 22-231-1 season, but injuries have spoiled huge seasons in two-straight years. He only played in nine games in that freshman season and only played in five games last year. In those five games, Bryant showed he hadn’t lost a step by averaging 21.6 yards per catch. This year, I project Bryant for a 40-459-5 receiving line. If Bryant doesn’t have a big 2019 season, I’ll likely be out on Bryant as a Day 2 prospect. Blocking Ability: Hunter Bryant’s athleticism makes him a capable blocker, but his size (6’2/244) limits his blocking ceiling. That’s alright, though. Bryant shouldn’t be asked to block too often -- his strength is pass-catching -- and he can block well enough if it’s just a few snaps per game. Throwing him in the trenches isn’t putting him positions where he can win.) (8-1-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/2020-nfl-draft-stock-tight-ends
Top 25 College Tight Ends of 2019 (Hunter Bryant (6’2/241) has as much receiving upside as anyone on this list, but his injury history is worrisome. However, Bryant looks ready to go in 2019 and there will be plenty of opportunities for him to shine. In limited action late last year, Bryant lined up all over the field and was utilized as a deep threat, especially when slower linebackers were matched up on him. This draft class is pretty weak overall, so I’m hoping Bryant stays healthy and continues to show the ability to rack up yards after the catch because he can be a riser.) (6-17-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/rankings/top-25-college-tight-ends-2019
Morning Lions Links for Sunday 5-3-20
Articles:
O'HARA: Jones Jr. looking ahead to NFL season with optimism: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-jones-jr-looking-ahead-to-nfl-season-with-optimism
Report: Lions decline 5th-year option on LB Jarrad Davis: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/02/jarrad-davis-contract-detroit-lions-nfl/3061748001/
Lions have one of the worst odds to win Super Bowl 55, and for good reason: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/02/detroit-lions-super-bowl-odds-nfl/3066025001/
6 notable Lions from 2019 now on the roster bubble: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/02/6-notable-lions-from-2019-now-on-the-roster-bubble/
3 Reasons Why Jeff Okudah Will Be a Better Pro Corner than Damon Arnette: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/why-lions-jeff-okudah-will-be-better-than-damon-arnette
All Lions Mailbag: Remaining Free Agents, T.J. Hockenson and the Defensive Scheme: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-mailbag
3 Concerns with Detroit Lions' 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/three-concerns-with-lions-draft-class
Why Taco Charlton Would Not Be a Fit in Motown: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/taco-charlton-would-not-be-a-fit-in-detroit
Lions Mailbag: Remaining Free Agents, Hockenson and the Defensive Scheme: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-mailbag
“Extremely Small” Chance That There Will Be No NFL Season In 2020: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/05/02/extremely-small-chance-that-there-will-be-no-nfl-season-in-2020/
Video:
Instagram Live Q and A with Marvin Jones Jr.: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/live-instagram-q-a-with-marvin-jones-jr
O'HARA: Jones Jr. looking ahead to NFL season with optimism: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-jones-jr-looking-ahead-to-nfl-season-with-optimism
Report: Lions decline 5th-year option on LB Jarrad Davis: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/02/jarrad-davis-contract-detroit-lions-nfl/3061748001/
Lions have one of the worst odds to win Super Bowl 55, and for good reason: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/02/detroit-lions-super-bowl-odds-nfl/3066025001/
6 notable Lions from 2019 now on the roster bubble: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/02/6-notable-lions-from-2019-now-on-the-roster-bubble/
3 Reasons Why Jeff Okudah Will Be a Better Pro Corner than Damon Arnette: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/why-lions-jeff-okudah-will-be-better-than-damon-arnette
All Lions Mailbag: Remaining Free Agents, T.J. Hockenson and the Defensive Scheme: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-mailbag
3 Concerns with Detroit Lions' 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/three-concerns-with-lions-draft-class
Why Taco Charlton Would Not Be a Fit in Motown: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/taco-charlton-would-not-be-a-fit-in-detroit
Lions Mailbag: Remaining Free Agents, Hockenson and the Defensive Scheme: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-mailbag
“Extremely Small” Chance That There Will Be No NFL Season In 2020: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/05/02/extremely-small-chance-that-there-will-be-no-nfl-season-in-2020/
Video:
Instagram Live Q and A with Marvin Jones Jr.: https://www.detroitlions.com/video/live-instagram-q-a-with-marvin-jones-jr
Saturday, May 2, 2020
Morning Lions Links for Saturday 5-2-20
Articles:
Where Lions stand at running back following NFL Draft: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/where-lions-stand-at-running-back-following-nfl-draft-swift-huntley-johnson
Detroit Lions get bigger, whole lot nastier with first back-to-back guard picks since 1978: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/detroit-lions-get-bigger-and-a-whole-lot-nastier-in-nfl-draft.html
Lions QB Matthew Stafford among oddsmakers’ 5 favorites to win comeback player of the year: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/lions-qb-matthew-stafford-among-oddsmakers-5-favorites-to-win-comeback-player-of-the-year.html
8 big-name NFL players remain in flux after draft. Do any fit the Lions?: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/nfl-free-agents-2020-best-remaining/3067753001/
Lions' Swift is another former Georgia RB star. Here's what they've done in NFL: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/detroit-lions-dandre-swift-nfl-draf-georgia-running-backs/3054300001/
Lions mailbag, Part 2: Swift vs. Edwards-Helaire; market rates for Golladay, Decker: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/detroit-lions-mailbag-part-2-swift-vs-edwards-helaire-market-rates-golladay-decker/3054740001/
Lions third-rounder Julian Okwara a potential 'steal' of 2020 NFL Draft
Lions: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/lions-third-rounder-julian-okwara-potential-steal-2020-nfl-draft/3059634001/
John Penisini is one of the top low-risk, high-reward prospects in draft class, per PFF: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/john-penisini-is-one-of-the-top-low-risk-high-reward-prospects-in-draft-class-per-pff/
Breaking down the Lions' Ohio State draft picks with Eleven Warriors' Dan Hope: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/breaking-down-the-lions-ohio-state-draft-picks-with-eleven-warriors-dan-hope/
Hunter Bryant was the top-rated UDFA based on consensus draft boards: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/hunter-bryant-was-the-top-rated-udfa-based-on-consensus-draft-boards/
Matt Patricia faces longest odds to win NFL Coach of the Year award: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/matt-patricia-faces-longest-odds-to-win-nfl-coach-of-the-year-award/
Getting to Know TE Hunter Bryant with SI HuskyMaven's Mike Martin: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/getting-to-know-lions-hunter-bryant
2020 Lions Depth Chart: Running Backs: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-depth-chart-running-backs
Get to Know the Lions' 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/get-to-know-lions-2020-draft-class
D'Andre Swift Reveals Running Back He Models Game After: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dandre-swift-reveals-who-he-models-his-game-after
Buy or Sell: Matthew Stafford is Better than Kirk Cousins: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/is-stafford-better-than-cousins-buy-or-sell
Ranking Bob Quinn's Drafts as Detroit General Manager: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/best-draft-for-lions-bob-quinn
What Lions didn't do in 2020 draft: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/what-lions-didnt-do-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-and-one-thing-they-definitely-got-right/
Best UDFA signing by all 32 teams (Lions: Washington TE Hunter Bryant - Medicals had to be the reason for Bryant's fall down draft boards. He had no business being available after Day 3. Detroit can get a young, developmental player to stash behind last year's first-round selection, T.J. Hockenson.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-each-teams-best-undrafted-free-agent-signing-including-redskins-adding-randy-moss-son/
NFL Draft: Ranking every trade, 29-1 (7. Lions make a move for guard help - Lions get No. 75 (G Jackson). Colts get No. 82, 149, 182. The Lions had a clear need up front, and Jonah Jackson is good enough to compete for a starting job right out the gate. With the Lions also gaining positive value in the move up despite surrendering three picks in the deal, that makes this move one of the better ones in this year's draft.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-all-29-trades-from-saints-questionable-moves-to-affordable-round-1-deals-and-more/
NFC North's low bar and more insider notes: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-insider-notes-why-9-7-record-might-win-bumbling-nfc-north-bills-and-ravens-caught-in-crosshairs-and-more/
Revisiting grades for the 2019 NFL Draft (THE NOT SO GOOD:
Detroit Lions - We’re not writing off T.J. Hockenson (Pick: 8 | PFF Board: 21) by any means, but I’m sure Lions fans were hoping for a little more than 32 catches for 367 yards from a top-10 pick. The rookie learning curve for tight ends has been historically steep, though, so we’ll see how he fares in Year 2. The more worrisome picks are on the defensive side of the ball. The Lions' next four picks were additions to their defense, and none of them were able to move the needle in Year 1. Linebacker Jahlani Tavai (Pick: 43 | PFF Board: 237) was a player we called one of the biggest reaches at the time, and the second-rounder earned a 60.5 overall grade as a rookie. Third-round safety Will Harris (Pick: 81 | PFF Board: 111) earned a 55.3 overall grade on 667 snaps. Finally, fourth- and fifth-rounders Austin Bryant (Pick: 117 | PFF Board: NR) and Amani Oruwariye (Pick: 146 | PFF Board: 36), respectively, combined for only 348 snaps on the year.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-revisiting-grades-2019-nfl-draft
Lance Zierlein's three favorite draft picks by round (Round 1 Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State (Drafted: No. 3 overall, Detroit Lions): Hard to find fault in this pick considering the perfect confluence of need and talent in one selection. Okudah is not a finished product by any means, but I like that about him. He is able to make plenty of plays on the ball thanks to his physical gifts, but he's still training his eyes and instincts. Once it all comes together, he could become one of the top lockdown corners in the league.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112469/article/2020-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-three-favorite-picks-by-round
Stop Running It Up The Middle: https://www.rotoworld.com/article/going-deep/stop-running-it-middle
2021 NFL Draft:
2021 NFL Draft: Breaking down top QBs: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2021-nfl-draft-quarterbacks-is-trevor-lawrence-a-lock-as-no-1-pick-heres-why-he-might-not-be/
Where Lions stand at running back following NFL Draft: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/where-lions-stand-at-running-back-following-nfl-draft-swift-huntley-johnson
Detroit Lions get bigger, whole lot nastier with first back-to-back guard picks since 1978: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/detroit-lions-get-bigger-and-a-whole-lot-nastier-in-nfl-draft.html
Lions QB Matthew Stafford among oddsmakers’ 5 favorites to win comeback player of the year: https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/05/lions-qb-matthew-stafford-among-oddsmakers-5-favorites-to-win-comeback-player-of-the-year.html
8 big-name NFL players remain in flux after draft. Do any fit the Lions?: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/nfl-free-agents-2020-best-remaining/3067753001/
Lions' Swift is another former Georgia RB star. Here's what they've done in NFL: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/detroit-lions-dandre-swift-nfl-draf-georgia-running-backs/3054300001/
Lions mailbag, Part 2: Swift vs. Edwards-Helaire; market rates for Golladay, Decker: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/05/01/detroit-lions-mailbag-part-2-swift-vs-edwards-helaire-market-rates-golladay-decker/3054740001/
Lions third-rounder Julian Okwara a potential 'steal' of 2020 NFL Draft
Lions: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/lions-third-rounder-julian-okwara-potential-steal-2020-nfl-draft/3059634001/
John Penisini is one of the top low-risk, high-reward prospects in draft class, per PFF: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/john-penisini-is-one-of-the-top-low-risk-high-reward-prospects-in-draft-class-per-pff/
Breaking down the Lions' Ohio State draft picks with Eleven Warriors' Dan Hope: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/breaking-down-the-lions-ohio-state-draft-picks-with-eleven-warriors-dan-hope/
Hunter Bryant was the top-rated UDFA based on consensus draft boards: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/hunter-bryant-was-the-top-rated-udfa-based-on-consensus-draft-boards/
Matt Patricia faces longest odds to win NFL Coach of the Year award: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/05/01/matt-patricia-faces-longest-odds-to-win-nfl-coach-of-the-year-award/
Getting to Know TE Hunter Bryant with SI HuskyMaven's Mike Martin: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/getting-to-know-lions-hunter-bryant
2020 Lions Depth Chart: Running Backs: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-depth-chart-running-backs
Get to Know the Lions' 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/get-to-know-lions-2020-draft-class
D'Andre Swift Reveals Running Back He Models Game After: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dandre-swift-reveals-who-he-models-his-game-after
Buy or Sell: Matthew Stafford is Better than Kirk Cousins: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/is-stafford-better-than-cousins-buy-or-sell
Ranking Bob Quinn's Drafts as Detroit General Manager: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/best-draft-for-lions-bob-quinn
What Lions didn't do in 2020 draft: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/what-lions-didnt-do-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-and-one-thing-they-definitely-got-right/
Best UDFA signing by all 32 teams (Lions: Washington TE Hunter Bryant - Medicals had to be the reason for Bryant's fall down draft boards. He had no business being available after Day 3. Detroit can get a young, developmental player to stash behind last year's first-round selection, T.J. Hockenson.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-each-teams-best-undrafted-free-agent-signing-including-redskins-adding-randy-moss-son/
NFL Draft: Ranking every trade, 29-1 (7. Lions make a move for guard help - Lions get No. 75 (G Jackson). Colts get No. 82, 149, 182. The Lions had a clear need up front, and Jonah Jackson is good enough to compete for a starting job right out the gate. With the Lions also gaining positive value in the move up despite surrendering three picks in the deal, that makes this move one of the better ones in this year's draft.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-all-29-trades-from-saints-questionable-moves-to-affordable-round-1-deals-and-more/
NFC North's low bar and more insider notes: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-insider-notes-why-9-7-record-might-win-bumbling-nfc-north-bills-and-ravens-caught-in-crosshairs-and-more/
Revisiting grades for the 2019 NFL Draft (THE NOT SO GOOD:
Detroit Lions - We’re not writing off T.J. Hockenson (Pick: 8 | PFF Board: 21) by any means, but I’m sure Lions fans were hoping for a little more than 32 catches for 367 yards from a top-10 pick. The rookie learning curve for tight ends has been historically steep, though, so we’ll see how he fares in Year 2. The more worrisome picks are on the defensive side of the ball. The Lions' next four picks were additions to their defense, and none of them were able to move the needle in Year 1. Linebacker Jahlani Tavai (Pick: 43 | PFF Board: 237) was a player we called one of the biggest reaches at the time, and the second-rounder earned a 60.5 overall grade as a rookie. Third-round safety Will Harris (Pick: 81 | PFF Board: 111) earned a 55.3 overall grade on 667 snaps. Finally, fourth- and fifth-rounders Austin Bryant (Pick: 117 | PFF Board: NR) and Amani Oruwariye (Pick: 146 | PFF Board: 36), respectively, combined for only 348 snaps on the year.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-revisiting-grades-2019-nfl-draft
Lance Zierlein's three favorite draft picks by round (Round 1 Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State (Drafted: No. 3 overall, Detroit Lions): Hard to find fault in this pick considering the perfect confluence of need and talent in one selection. Okudah is not a finished product by any means, but I like that about him. He is able to make plenty of plays on the ball thanks to his physical gifts, but he's still training his eyes and instincts. Once it all comes together, he could become one of the top lockdown corners in the league.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112469/article/2020-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-three-favorite-picks-by-round
Stop Running It Up The Middle: https://www.rotoworld.com/article/going-deep/stop-running-it-middle
2021 NFL Draft:
2021 NFL Draft: Breaking down top QBs: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2021-nfl-draft-quarterbacks-is-trevor-lawrence-a-lock-as-no-1-pick-heres-why-he-might-not-be/
Friday, May 1, 2020
Morning Lions Links for Friday 5-1-20
Articles:
TWENTYMAN: 5 takeaways from 2020 NFL Draft: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-5-takeaways-from-2020-nfl-draft-okudah-swift-okwara
Lions' Okudah a rare top-5 cornerback draft pick. Here's how other CBs turned out
Lions: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/29/detroit-lions-jeff-okudah-top-cornerbacks-picks-nfl-draft-history/3031336001/
How Lions' NFC North foes stand after the draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-nfc-north/3045325001/
Lions mailbag, Part 1: Why not go after Markus Golden or Jadeveon Clowney?: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/detroit-lions-mailbag-part-1-why-not-go-after-markus-golden-or-jadeveon-clowney/3046937001/
Where Lions roster stands after draft, free agency; what players are still available
Lions: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/29/where-detroit-lions-roster-stands-after-draft-free-agency-what-players-still-available/3033562001/
How D'Andre Swift could alter the Lions' running back rotation by committee: https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36475/how-dandre-swift-could-alter-the-lions-running-back-rotation-by-committee
4 things I learned about the Lions from the 2020 NFL Draft: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/4-things-i-learned-about-the-lions-from-the-2020-nfl-draft/
Jeremiah Dinson evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides and path to the roster projection: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/jeremiah-dinson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides-and-path-to-the-roster-projection/
Recapping the Lions draft return from the Darius Slay trade: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/recapping-the-lions-draft-return-from-the-darius-slay-trade/
Over/under for Matthew Stafford's 2020 passing yards set quite high: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/over-under-for-matthew-staffords-2020-passing-yards-set-quite-high/
Hunter Bryant May Be Best Undrafted Free Agent from 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-hunter-bryant-may-be-best-undrafted-free-agent
Lions' Offense Could Be Sleeping Giant in 2020: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-offense-could-be-sleeping-giant-in-2020
Why D'Andre Swift Could Actually Help Kerryon Johnson Be More Productive: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-dandre-swift-could-help-kerryon-johnson
2020 NFL Draft: Analyzing the play and scheme fit of all six first-round cornerbacks (PICK 3: DETROIT LIONS — CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE: The Detroit Lions used the No. 3 overall pick to select Ohio State corner Jeffrey Okudah because they believe that he has all the skills to perform immediately as a press-man defender. The Lions’ defense finished the 2019 regular season with a 28th-ranked team coverage grade of 50.5 while playing 347 snaps of man coverage, the most of any defense in the NFL. And after their cornerbacks and safeties combined to allow 0.187 expected points added (EPA) per pass play along with the 107.7 passer rating on throws into their coverage — both of which ranked 30th among NFL secondaries — the Lions will be expecting their third overall pick to stop the bleeding in their pass defense. Okudah has the requisite size and length to play aggressive man coverage without the fear of getting beat. He allowed only 23 receptions on 426 coverage snaps in 2019 while his longest completion allowed went for only 28 yards. The Ohio State product held quarterbacks to a 41.6% completion percentage during his three-year career in Columbus, a figure that is tied for second in the nation among the 202 cornerbacks with at least 100 targets over that span, while his 54.8 passer rating allowed ranks eighth among that very same group. In man coverage alone, Okudah allowed just 25 receptions from 62 total targets over the last three seasons, giving up just 325 yards and only two touchdowns while coming away with one interception and 13 total forced incompletions. His 61.6 passer rating allowed in man coverage since 2017 ranks 20th among the 131 cornerbacks who saw at least 30 targets in man coverage over that period. A year after tying for a league-low seven interceptions, the Detroit Lions have now found the right man to perform as a shutdown man-coverage cornerback — one of the league’s most difficult roles.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-analyzing-the-play-and-scheme-fit-of-all-six-first-round-cornerbacks
Matchups to watch coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft (MINNESOTA VIKINGS WR JUSTIN JEFFERSON VS. DETROIT LIONS WR JEFFREY OKUDAH: The Vikings’ usage pattern will determine how much of this matchup we see, as Jefferson played mostly in the slot at LSU last season, but he is the No. 2 option behind WR Adam Thielen in Minnesota. Okudah will play on the outside in Detroit with CB Justin Coleman manning the slot, but we could see Jefferson-Okudah battles on early downs. Jefferson is a nuanced route-runner, shifty in and out of his breaks for a bigger receiver, and he brings good body control on downfield throws. Okudah projects as the best man coverage corner in the class and he’s heading to one of the most man-heavy teams in the league, so he’ll be put under the microscope right away in one of the most challenging roles in all of football. Jefferson was one of just three receivers to average over 12.0 yards per target when targeted against single coverage last year, while Okudah had the No. 9 coverage grade when targeted in single coverage at 74.5.): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-matchups-to-watch-coming-out-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
Best, worst fits of the draft (Best fits - CB Jeff Okudah, Detroit Lions: Desmond Trufant and Okudah are a better cornerback tandem than what Detroit had last season. Okudah is a passionate, physical cornerback on the edge that is willing to fly in on run support. The Patriot way has called for depth and athleticism in the defensive backfield. The Lions took strides toward that goal.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-joe-burrow-clyde-edwards-helaire-are-perfect-fits-while-four-first-round-picks-were-not/
2020 NFL Draft: Ranking every team's draft class; Packers picks raise questions, Ravens crush it (19. Lions: This was a boring draft for the Lions but that's a good thing. They stayed put, got Jeff Okudah, circled back in Round 2 and got our RB1, D'Andre Swift, and then added an athletic, arrow-pointing-up pass rusher in Julian Okwara. Jonah Jackson and Logan Stenberg add depth along the interior O-line and Quintez Cephus plays much faster than his slow 40 time at the combine. For a team that needs to win now, these were solid selections. Grade: B): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-every-teams-draft-class-packers-picks-raise-questions-ravens-crush-it/
Ranking the QB-WR duos of 2020 (9. Matthew Stafford and Kenny Golladay, Detroit Lions: Stafford is my leader in the clubhouse in the 2020 Comeback Player of the Year race after a back injury cost him half the 2019 season -- he was on pace to near his career highs in passing yards (5,038) and passing touchdowns (41). This is good news for Golladay -- who led the league with 11 receiving TDs last season -- entering the final year of his rookie contract.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112370/article/breesthomas-ryanjones-among-top-10-qbwr-pairings
TWENTYMAN: 5 takeaways from 2020 NFL Draft: https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-5-takeaways-from-2020-nfl-draft-okudah-swift-okwara
Lions' Okudah a rare top-5 cornerback draft pick. Here's how other CBs turned out
Lions: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/29/detroit-lions-jeff-okudah-top-cornerbacks-picks-nfl-draft-history/3031336001/
How Lions' NFC North foes stand after the draft: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-nfc-north/3045325001/
Lions mailbag, Part 1: Why not go after Markus Golden or Jadeveon Clowney?: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/30/detroit-lions-mailbag-part-1-why-not-go-after-markus-golden-or-jadeveon-clowney/3046937001/
Where Lions roster stands after draft, free agency; what players are still available
Lions: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/04/29/where-detroit-lions-roster-stands-after-draft-free-agency-what-players-still-available/3033562001/
How D'Andre Swift could alter the Lions' running back rotation by committee: https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36475/how-dandre-swift-could-alter-the-lions-running-back-rotation-by-committee
4 things I learned about the Lions from the 2020 NFL Draft: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/4-things-i-learned-about-the-lions-from-the-2020-nfl-draft/
Jeremiah Dinson evaluations from 2020 NFL Draft guides and path to the roster projection: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/jeremiah-dinson-evaluations-from-2020-nfl-draft-guides-and-path-to-the-roster-projection/
Recapping the Lions draft return from the Darius Slay trade: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/recapping-the-lions-draft-return-from-the-darius-slay-trade/
Over/under for Matthew Stafford's 2020 passing yards set quite high: https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/30/over-under-for-matthew-staffords-2020-passing-yards-set-quite-high/
Hunter Bryant May Be Best Undrafted Free Agent from 2020 Draft Class: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-hunter-bryant-may-be-best-undrafted-free-agent
Lions' Offense Could Be Sleeping Giant in 2020: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-offense-could-be-sleeping-giant-in-2020
Why D'Andre Swift Could Actually Help Kerryon Johnson Be More Productive: https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-dandre-swift-could-help-kerryon-johnson
2020 NFL Draft: Analyzing the play and scheme fit of all six first-round cornerbacks (PICK 3: DETROIT LIONS — CB JEFFREY OKUDAH, OHIO STATE: The Detroit Lions used the No. 3 overall pick to select Ohio State corner Jeffrey Okudah because they believe that he has all the skills to perform immediately as a press-man defender. The Lions’ defense finished the 2019 regular season with a 28th-ranked team coverage grade of 50.5 while playing 347 snaps of man coverage, the most of any defense in the NFL. And after their cornerbacks and safeties combined to allow 0.187 expected points added (EPA) per pass play along with the 107.7 passer rating on throws into their coverage — both of which ranked 30th among NFL secondaries — the Lions will be expecting their third overall pick to stop the bleeding in their pass defense. Okudah has the requisite size and length to play aggressive man coverage without the fear of getting beat. He allowed only 23 receptions on 426 coverage snaps in 2019 while his longest completion allowed went for only 28 yards. The Ohio State product held quarterbacks to a 41.6% completion percentage during his three-year career in Columbus, a figure that is tied for second in the nation among the 202 cornerbacks with at least 100 targets over that span, while his 54.8 passer rating allowed ranks eighth among that very same group. In man coverage alone, Okudah allowed just 25 receptions from 62 total targets over the last three seasons, giving up just 325 yards and only two touchdowns while coming away with one interception and 13 total forced incompletions. His 61.6 passer rating allowed in man coverage since 2017 ranks 20th among the 131 cornerbacks who saw at least 30 targets in man coverage over that period. A year after tying for a league-low seven interceptions, the Detroit Lions have now found the right man to perform as a shutdown man-coverage cornerback — one of the league’s most difficult roles.): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-analyzing-the-play-and-scheme-fit-of-all-six-first-round-cornerbacks
Matchups to watch coming out of the 2020 NFL Draft (MINNESOTA VIKINGS WR JUSTIN JEFFERSON VS. DETROIT LIONS WR JEFFREY OKUDAH: The Vikings’ usage pattern will determine how much of this matchup we see, as Jefferson played mostly in the slot at LSU last season, but he is the No. 2 option behind WR Adam Thielen in Minnesota. Okudah will play on the outside in Detroit with CB Justin Coleman manning the slot, but we could see Jefferson-Okudah battles on early downs. Jefferson is a nuanced route-runner, shifty in and out of his breaks for a bigger receiver, and he brings good body control on downfield throws. Okudah projects as the best man coverage corner in the class and he’s heading to one of the most man-heavy teams in the league, so he’ll be put under the microscope right away in one of the most challenging roles in all of football. Jefferson was one of just three receivers to average over 12.0 yards per target when targeted against single coverage last year, while Okudah had the No. 9 coverage grade when targeted in single coverage at 74.5.): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-matchups-to-watch-coming-out-of-the-2020-nfl-draft
Best, worst fits of the draft (Best fits - CB Jeff Okudah, Detroit Lions: Desmond Trufant and Okudah are a better cornerback tandem than what Detroit had last season. Okudah is a passionate, physical cornerback on the edge that is willing to fly in on run support. The Patriot way has called for depth and athleticism in the defensive backfield. The Lions took strides toward that goal.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-joe-burrow-clyde-edwards-helaire-are-perfect-fits-while-four-first-round-picks-were-not/
2020 NFL Draft: Ranking every team's draft class; Packers picks raise questions, Ravens crush it (19. Lions: This was a boring draft for the Lions but that's a good thing. They stayed put, got Jeff Okudah, circled back in Round 2 and got our RB1, D'Andre Swift, and then added an athletic, arrow-pointing-up pass rusher in Julian Okwara. Jonah Jackson and Logan Stenberg add depth along the interior O-line and Quintez Cephus plays much faster than his slow 40 time at the combine. For a team that needs to win now, these were solid selections. Grade: B): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-ranking-every-teams-draft-class-packers-picks-raise-questions-ravens-crush-it/
Ranking the QB-WR duos of 2020 (9. Matthew Stafford and Kenny Golladay, Detroit Lions: Stafford is my leader in the clubhouse in the 2020 Comeback Player of the Year race after a back injury cost him half the 2019 season -- he was on pace to near his career highs in passing yards (5,038) and passing touchdowns (41). This is good news for Golladay -- who led the league with 11 receiving TDs last season -- entering the final year of his rookie contract.): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001112370/article/breesthomas-ryanjones-among-top-10-qbwr-pairings
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