2014 NFL Draft Preview: Potential Risers and Fallers in tonight’s NFL Draft
By J.R.
Riser – Mike Evans WR Texas A&M
Nov 9, 2013; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Mike Evans (13) warms up before the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
The big, lanky Texas A&M receiver checks in on the big board at number 18. With such a deep receiver class this year I debated leaving Evans off the riser list, but his prototypical size and speed leave him guaranteed to rise into the top ten tonight. If fellow game-changing receiver Sammy Watkins goes off the board in the top 5, which is highly likely, teams will be trying desperately to grab the next best receiver.
Evans only played two years in college, but he consistently displayed the ability to go up and win the jump ball. Questions about his speed were answered at the combine as he posted a 4.53 40 yard dash time. The only question that remains for Evans is will he be able to gain enough separation against NFL corner? I think his combination of size/speed and his production at Texas A&M are enough to push him into the top ten with Tampa Bay being a likely landing spot with the 7th pick.