Evaluating NFL prospects relies heavily on personal preference and opinion. There are a ton of prospects and almost as many draft analysts so we are hammered by varying opinions. Every year there are players that stand out and make my man crush list. Basically the more games I get to watch the more certain players grow on me and I develop a crush on their playing skills. These players could range from top tier prospects to late round developmental players.
2011 NFL Draft Prospect Man Crushes
As a rule, I try to limit my crushes to love of pro potential and not college production. I also avoid letting my love for specific teams cloud my judgment, as much as I want to tell you Evan Royster is great. This year's list includes some that I have been high on all season and a few that have recently made the list. The list is after the jump and I would love to see feedback on your man crushes.
1. Tyron Smith- OT- USC
- I have been on the Tyron Smith bandwagon for awhile now and feel he has true star potential. He possesses the best balance, footwork, and leverage of all the tackle prospects. Combine that with his exceptional athletic ability and you have the makings of a pro bowler. I would be surprised to see Smith fall out of the top 10 with the Cowboys looking like a prime landing spot.
2. Corey Liuget- DL- Illinois
- Liuget has come on strong and has seen his stock rise throughout the year. He keeps moving up draft boards because his play on the field shows a lot of potential. He plays with good leverage and uses his hands to keep clean and work towards the football. Liuget also possesses a quick first step that allows him to penetrate the pocket. He is versatile enough to fit in any scheme.
3. Jah Reid- OT- UCF
- The more I watched of Reid the more I felt he has a bright future. He has good size and surprising athletic ability. His natural bend allows him to keep his pad level low and maintain leverage. He is a strong right tackle prospect with the ability to fill in at left tackle in a pinch.
4. Sam Acho- DE/OLB- Texas
- There is no doubt in my mind that Acho is going to create a ton of pressure. He possesses good snap awareness and a quick first step with will allow him to threaten the edge. His use of leverage leads me to believe that he can hold up at defensive end. Acho also uses his quick hands to keep clean and attack the football. Acho will never be a dominate run defender but he he won’t be a liability either.
5. Mason Foster- LB- Washington
- Foster has a great nose for the football and is constantly making plays. His instincts are among the tops of this draft class as he rarely takes false steps. While he doesn’t have elite speed, he can still make plays sideline to sideline. If a team is looking for someone to always be in the right position and make a ton of tackles then Foster is their man.
6. Gabe Carimi- OT- Wisconsin
- A lot of evaluators feel that Carimi will develop into a very good right tackle but lacks the foot speed to hold up on the left side. I am in the minority and feel that Carimi’s technique and use of angles mean he can be a more than adequate left tackle. Carimi might not be a great fit for a team that heavily features the pass but would be great for a run first team.
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