NFL Draft Predictions: Weir's Take

1^st Pick: The Texans own the first round pick and I think the decision has been narrowed down to two players; Jadeveon Clowney and Johnny Manziel.

Clowney, an athletic wonder, is said to be a once in a lifetime talent. His 6’4 frame paired with his deadly speed off the edge can be a nightmare to any QB. However, Clowney’s effort and work ethic is questioned due to his performance last year with the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Johnny Manziel could be the most heavily debated draft prospect in this year’s class. Manziel’s freshman year proved to be one for the ages, winning him a Heisman Trophy. However, his mechanics and QB abilities are questioned. Manziel is a big risk for the Texans, but could be a big reward.

When the time comes for the Texans to make a decision, I think they will go with Manziel. Clowney is an amazing talent, but the Texans need a QB, not a defensive lineman. Last year, the Texans could not function without a QB heading their offense. Plus, I’m sure the marketing team could have a field day with Manziel playing for the Texans.

Best NFL Career: When former Clemson WR Sammy Watkins’s name is called, the team who selects him will not be disappointed.

            Watkins’s time spent at Clemson allowed him to earn a reputation as not only a reliable WR, but also a playmaker. Watkins caught 240 passes and garnered 3,391 total receiving yards, averaging 14.2 yards per catch. In his junior year, he also led the ACC in receiving yards with 1,464 and finished second in total receptions with 101.

With his incredible work ethic and willingness to get better, he will strive to get better no matter where he goes. I foresee defenses struggling to keep him contained on Sundays.

Most Buzz: Jadeveon Clowney has this category on lock down. Sure, Johnny Manziel is up there with him in talks of potential, but Clowney can separate any sports bar in a heartbeat. The capabilities he demonstrated in his sophomore year with South Carolina were astounding.

Along with the stellar year, no one will forget the train-like tackle of his in the 2012-13 Outback Bowl, forcing the Michigan RB to lose possession of the ball and his helmet.

After his sophomore year, the critics began to ring in. Clowney was facing hustling issues, not finishing plays and overall lacking his prior explosiveness. Granted, Clowney was suffering from a foot injury that prevented him in several games, but Clowney simply was not the same.

Depending on which side of Clowney you want to see, Clowney could be the next defensive monster or potentially a bust.

Potential Bust: Former UCF QB Blake Bortles might be the biggest bust in this year’s draft. His passing stats are not bad, but the defenses he went up against were not the greatest. UCF’s strength of schedule was ranked at 98 last year, proving to be nothing compared to former Georgia QB Aaron Murray’s strength of schedule at 31.

Steal of the Draft: Former Auburn RB Tre Mason will make any team he goes to happy with their decision. Mason was a key component in Auburn’s deadly option attack last year as he ran for 1,816 rushing yards on 317 attempts. His small stature and speed can be compared to a Ray Rice or Darren Sproles. Mason’s flexibility and potential will help any team in the NFL.

Versatile: Sammy Watkins will once again appear on this list as the most versatile player in the draft this year. Watkin’s abilities and size allows him to play any position in which he can catch the ball. The sharp break off the line of scrimmage mixed with his fluid hip movements can leave many defenders in the dust.

            Not only can he be a threat on the offense, Watkins also has the speed to return punts and kicks on special teams.