The 2015 NFL Draft concluded less than two weeks ago, but already ESPN's Mel Kiper has released the first iteration of his 2016 NFL Draft big board. Ohio State's Joey Bosa tops the defense-dominated list.
Defense dominates Mel Kiper’s first 2016 big board
Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa tops the list.
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Even casual football fans are likely familiar with Bosa, who helped lead the Buckeyes to a championship in the first ever college football playoff last season. Kiper cites his parentage (his father John was a former first-round draft pick), size (6'6, 275 pounds) and production (34.5 tackles for loss) as reasons why the defensive end could become the top pick in next year's draft.
Bosa is one of six defensive players that make up Kiper's top eight, a list that includes stalwarts Jalen Ramsey, Robert Nkemdiche and Vernon Hargreaves. The top rated offensive player is Ole Miss offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil. Perhaps just as importantly, not a senior is listed among the top 10.
As with any draft, the quarterbacks generate the most attention. Kiper includes four in his big board with California's Jared Goff the top rated. Behind him are Christian Hackenberg, Connor Cook and Cardale Jones.
Of course, the stock of NFL prospects will change significantly over the course of the upcoming college season. SB Nation’s Dan Kadar has collected 125 names that draftheads should familiarize themselves with.
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