Clemson Draft Distractions?

[LongTimeSooner]

All-world DE Shaq Lawson has already declared: http://espn.go.com/blog/acc/post/_/...rest-to-declare-for-draft-before-playoff-game

It appears the Tigers have 4 - 5 others entertaining the same situation:

"Clemson cornerback Mackensie Alexander is also featured on the Big Board, though he has remained quiet about his future. The same goes for several other Clemson underclassmen with decisions to make: tight end Jordan Leggett (No. 5at his position), safeties T.J. Green (No. 4) and Jayron Kearse (No. 6), and running back Wayne Gallman (not listed among Kiper's top 10 backs)."​

When college players start thinking about the draft, they think about not getting hurt, not about laying it all on the line. Bama claimed this was a big reason for losing the Sugar Bowl in 2014, and I think OU has seen it's fair share of senior-laden no show bowl games once we got behind.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but OU has not had any underclassman declare and I don't believe anyone is a 1st rounder. The draft distraction of key players on defense could be a big factor in the game past the first quarter if Clemson gets behind.

 

[williamtiger]

I see that another way. I see it as a lot of NFL talent the OU defense has to stop

 

[LongTimeSooner]

I see that another way. I see it as a lot of NFL talent the OU defense has to stop

Their NFL talent appears to favor the defensive side of the ball. I am pretty confident in our Offense putting up points. I could be way wrong here.

 

[Raysor]

I do not think it is likely, and I sure do not think it is a good idea, but I do think it is possible that Walker or Wade could come out. Or both.

If both stay, we could have an elite defense next season.

 

[LongTimeSooner]

I do not think it is likely, and I sure do not think it is a good idea, but I do think it is possible that Walker or Wase could come out. Or both.

If both stay, we could have an elite defense next season.

I think Walker is a redshirt soph? Hopefully he realizes he can elevate his value millions by staying at least one more season.

 

[FreeSC]

Their NFL talent appears to favor the defensive side of the ball. I am pretty confident in our Offense putting up points. I could be way wrong here.

You're right, in that most of the names mentioned are on the defensive side.
I really don't see a couple of those guys jumping early, especially Gallman; but Leggett and Kearse shouldn't jump early either.

However, I really think that, knowing the mindset infused into this team from the head coach down; instead of being distracted or playing at 90%, they would more likely ball out. This is a game NFL scouts will really look at; and it will only help the draft status of those interested in jumping. I heard an interview with Tajh Boyd back several years ago; and that was his mindset before beating LSU: If I play well and beat them; I'll probably jump early.

But yeah, no doubt, there's a LOT of NFL talent. And more on the way. Don't know if you heard, Clemson had TWO 5* guys commit yesterday, and other silently committed (not publicly known). Tons of talent on the team and more coming....

 

[cutiger653]

You're right, in that most of the names mentioned are on the defensive side.
I really don't see a couple of those guys jumping early, especially Gallman; but Leggett and Kearse shouldn't jump early either.

However, I really think that, knowing the mindset infused into this team from the head coach down; instead of being distracted or playing at 90%, they would more likely ball out. This is a game NFL scouts will really look at; and it will only help the draft status of those interested in jumping. I heard an interview with Tajh Boyd back several years ago; and that was his mindset before beating LSU: If I play well and beat them; I'll probably jump early.

But yeah, no doubt, there's a LOT of NFL talent. And more on the way. Don't know if you heard, Clemson had TWO 5* guys commit yesterday, and other silently committed (not publicly known). Tons of talent on the team and more coming....

Good post, that was my thinking as well. This is a chance for an NFL draft prospect to raise his stock value.

 

[RumphSquatch]

But yeah, no doubt, there's a LOT of NFL talent. And more on the way. Don't know if you heard, Clemson had TWO 5* guys commit yesterday, and other silently committed (not publicly known). Tons of talent on the team and more coming....

If someone commits silently, how does anyone know?

 

[FreeSC]

If someone commits silently, how does anyone know?

The Clemson Rivals site, Tiger illustrated, uses the verbiage "Rashaun Smith is a projection to Clemson by Tiger illustrated.". Projection = silent commit. 100% he's coming

 

[FreeSC]

The guys on TI have excellent contacts, insider info, and writing style. None better on the web. Cris & those guys are awesome, it's not even close

 

[RumphSquatch]

The Clemson Rivals site, Tiger illustrated, uses the verbiage "Rashaun Smith is a projection to Clemson by Tiger illustrated.". Projection = silent commit. 100% he's coming

ok, just a weird way to word it. Congrats.

 

[rogue booster]

what a spin job!

in before "they're probably already prepping for minicamp with the Browns"