ESPN draft experts discuss Watson as an NFL prospect |
ESPN draft analysts Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay
discuss the current Heisman candidates including Clemson sophomore quarterback Deshaun Watson and how he translates as a future NFL prospect.
"The most valuable player for an undefeated team that has a chance to be the No. 1 seed in the playoff, Watson should be in New York," Kiper Jr. said. "His passing numbers aren't eye-popping, but A) note the efficiency and accuracy, as he's completing over 70 percent of his passes and has consistently made the crucial throws, and B) He's run for over 700 yards. As a prospect: He's not draft-eligible, but you'll see him in the rankings next year." Todd McShay believes that Clemson signal-caller Deshaun Watson would apparently land in round five through round seven next year if he decides to declare for the NFL draft. "It's amazing the lack of buzz surrounding Watson," McShay said. "Like Mel said, his numbers aren't eye-popping -- mainly because the Tigers rarely throw it more than 40 times per game -- but his ability to consistently create big plays through the air and on the ground has been impressive. As a prospect: He's only a sophomore, but I'll guess Day 3 once he's eligible. He's far from a finished product, but I've been impressed by his accuracy." Deshaun Watson had an impressive individual performance in leading #1 Clemson (12-0) to a 37-32 road victory over South Carolina (3-9) on Saturday. Watson had 393 yards of total offense and was responsible for four out of the five total touchdowns against the Gamecocks in a 37-32 win on Saturday. The three rushing touchdowns and 114 rushing yards against South Carolina were both career highs for Watson. Watson has completed 261 for 371 (70.4%) for 3223 passing yards with 27 touchdowns and ten interceptions on the season.
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