On Mondays throughout the season we'll spotlight some players who increased their NFL Draft stock over the weekend. Have more? Let everyone know in the comments.
Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati
Although he may never be considered a featured back at the next level, Pead showed he could carry the load when asked against North Carolina State. On the game, he ran for 167 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries due in large part to his vision and quickness. Pead will be a great value if he's taken in the middle rounds. If he keeps playing like he did against NC State, he may not get there.
2012 NFL Draft stock up spotlight
Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
It’s hard to say the stock can rise on a player who is so highly ranked. Regardless, Richardson looked like a legitimate top-tier running back prospect against Arkansas Saturday. Richardson was hard to take down, running the ball for 126 yards. More impassive was an 85-yard touchdown reception that should have gone for a minimal gain.
Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt
Despite it being against lowly quarterback
, you have to be impressed by Hayward’s performance against South Carolina. Hayward was playing star receiver
aggressively and it paid off. Hayward’s physical play held Jeffery to two catches for 34 yards.
Dont’a Hightower, MLB, Alabama
If there are questions about Hightower’s speed and ability to move laterally, he quieted them some. He was all over the field and putting big hits on Arkansas running back Ronnie Wingo. Some may be dissuaded by Hightower’s attitude on the field, but he delivered a message Saturday.
Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
His stat line of two tackles won’t indicate it, but Martin looked good against San Diego State. He was getting push most of the game and consistently changed the pocket for quarterback
. Due to his lacking size, Martin probably won’t get a fair shake in the draft, but his athleticism and effort will give him a good shot at the next level.
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