All eyes will be on the exciting college football slate this weekend, as the stage is almost set for the first 12-team playoff. These games are isolated, so each prospect will have a chance to increase their draft stock in front of what will presumably be a larger contingent of scouts and general managers. We can all start to finalize our draft boards as mock draft season approaches. Let’s get to it!
Porter is a unique prospect due to making a late position switch in his career. He played wide receiver until age 22, so he’s still learning the cornerback position. His measurables are off the charts. He’s 6’3 and has a wingspan comparable to Inspector Gadget. The growth has been apparent, as he recorded his first three interceptions this season. When you couple that with eight pass-break-ups, his production has opened eyes. His ceiling is very high, and he has a chance to showcase his talents against a pass-happy Arizona State team in the Big 12 title this Saturday.
Cam Skattebo, RB, Arizona State
Skattebo will be on the field at the same time as Porter, which kills two birds with one stone for consumers. The Arizona State bell cow is on pace to eclipse 2,000 all-purpose yards this season. He’s a bulky back, clocking in at 5’10, 225 lbs. – which leads to questions about his speed and ability to break big plays.
He will be a player to closely monitor at the NFL Combine. When it comes to the Steelers, they will likely be in the running back market as Najee Harris continues to outprice them with his above-average play. This will especially be the case if the black and gold decide to retail QB Russell Wilson (they will) – who will likely carry at least a 25 mil AAV.
Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas
Bond is the definition of a game-breaker. He reminds me of former Texas and now Kansas City Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy – in that lightning can strike at any moment with the blazing-fast Longhorn.
The number one position the Steelers must address this offseason is receiver. Bond transferred from Alabama in the offseason but led the Crimson Tide in receptions (48) and yards (668) in 2023. He has only hauled in 32 passes this season but is averaging a robust 15.9 yards per catch.
Calvin Austin III has cemented himself as a mainstay on the Steelers roster, however, adding another explosive weapon is always a good idea.
Andrew Mukuba, S, Georgia
Mukuba is a consistent and reliable defensive back who excels in the nickel/slot. The Steelers have solidified their safety position with Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott, but the slot still remains an unkown. Rookie DB Beanie Bishop has shown flashes, and Cam Sutton has been adequate – but it remains a game of musical chairs at that spot.
The Georgia safety has obviously fared well against the toughest competition in the nation and will be tasked with helping slow down the player above him on this list, Isaiah Bond.
Jordan James, RB, Oregon
The Ducks have been a running back factory of late, producing the talented Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie dynamo Bucky Irving, who was James’ former running back. The junior has above-average quickness and vision and is an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield. He’s probably a mid-round pick, which is the area where most running backs are being selected in the modern era.
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