For this edition of the U Fan Cast, I decided to preview the 2017 NFL Draft, which will start tomorrow Thursday April 27 at 6:00 p.m. MT on ESPN. Check out the podcast for a more in depth look of the draft tomorrow.
Which Ute will be taken first?
Offensive tackle Garett Bolles almost certainly will be the first Ute off the board and will very likely be picked tomorrow in the first round. In my opinion, Bolles is the best offensive tackle in this draft. He has a rare combination of size, athleticism, technique, and nastiness. He pushed around and generally destroyed defenders last season, the best example is when he leveled USC linebacker Cam Smith. Bolles could hear his name called when the Denver Broncos (No. 20), the New York Giants (No. 23), or the Seattle Seahawks (No. 26) pick tomorrow.
Who else will get drafted?
While most of the podcast focuses on Bolles, I also touch on some of the other Utah players who could get drafted. Safety Marcus Williams will likely be the next player drafted. He will likely come off the board in the second round. Guard Isaac Asiata could hear his name called in the third round. One later round prospect whose stock is rising is cornerback Brian Allen because of his size, length, and athleticism. Offensive tackle Sam Tevi and running back Joe Williams are also in play to get drafted on day three. Overall, this should be an exciting weekend for the Utah football program. Utah will have a lot of players hear their name called, which will hopefully show the country what Utah fans already know, the Utah football program prepares players for the NFL.