Two Tigers ranked in NFL.com's Top 50 prospects

by Tony Crumpton - Assoc. Editor - Wed Jan 18 09:45:15 GMT-04:00 2017

NFL.com released their Top 50 prospects for the 2017 NFL Draft on Tuesday and the list included Clemson offensive duo Mike Williams and Deshaun Watson.

Williams was rated as the second-best wide receiver on the draft board at #9 overall.

"With power-forward size and strength, Williams dominated on every tape I studied," NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah said. "He uses his upper-body strength to power through press coverage, and he effectively shields off opponents on slant and vertical routes. He isn't a refined route runner but he doesn't need to create much separation to make plays. He simply overpowers defensive backs when the ball is in the air. He does have some concentration drops but those are offset by incredible diving catches and acrobatic adjustments down the field. He is a load to bring down after the catch and he's shown the ability to drag defenders into the end zone (see South Carolina game). Overall, his combination of size, physicality, and nasty temperament is unique. He should be a true No. 1 receiver very early in his NFL career."

Williams finished the National Championship game with eight catches for 94 yards and a touchdown.

Watson was rated as the second-best quarterback on the draft board at #32 overall.

"Watson has average height and a lean, muscular build for the position," Jeremiah said. "He operates in the shotgun. I love his poise, playmaking ability and intangibles. He holds the ball by his ear and has a smooth, quick delivery. He has enough arm strength to make all of the throws. His accuracy has been very inconsistent, especially on the deep ball. He has some bad misses on tape. He does show the ability to quickly work through progressions and stay poised in the pocket. His decision-making has been another area that needs improvement. He really struggled with red-zone interceptions in his final season. He is a very effective runner. He is slithery to avoid tacklers and has shown outstanding toughness both as a runner and in the pocket. Overall, I think Watson has a lot of upside at the position but his accuracy issues and decision-making are concerns."

Watson finished the comeback victory over Alabama going 36-for-56 for 420 yards and three passing touchdowns. He also had 21 rushes for 43 yards and rushing score.