Week 9 of college football saw plenty of offensive explosions around the country, with several players making a name for themselves. Of those several players, here are four that cemented themselves as Offensive NFL Draft Risers.
BIG 10 Conference Sees Two Breakout Stars Top Week 9’s Offensive NFL Draft Risers
LT Hollin Pierce, Rutgers
Hollin Pearce was given a solid test this week against the USC Trojans’ front seven and proved to be up to the task. His 67.3 PFF Run Blocking Grade was decent, but he truly excelled in the passing game. The 2023 All-Big-Ten Honorable Mention posted an outstanding 91.5 PFF Pass Blocking grade and was a brick wall against the Trojans.
At 6’8” 345, NFL scouts will be all over the Rutgers lineman because of his athletic upside. Pierce flashed nuance and technical abilities against USC that could make him serviceable in the NFL early in his career. He is currently viewed as a developmental prospect, but replicating his performance from this week could catapult him into being viewed as a more complete player.
Potential Team Fit: New England Patriots
WR Brennan Presley, Oklahoma St
Brennan Presley’s performance against Baylor was headlined by a magical 33-yard touchdown that included a spin move behind the line of scrimmage and three broken tackles. Finishing the day with 15 catches for 183 yards and the score, the 5’8” Presley was unguardable for the whole game.
Looking toward the NFL, he profiles as a slot/gadget guy with special skills after the catch. The senior showcased said skills on Saturday, with 130 of his 185 yards accumulated after the catch. His size will likely limit him from becoming a marquee player, but continuing to develop as a ball carrier will see him rising draft boards.
Potential Team Fit: Kansas City Chiefs
RB Jarquez Hunter, Auburn
Auburn Tigers running back Jarquez Hunter eclipsed over 275 yards to pair with two touchdowns in the team’s 24-10 victory over Kentucky. Averaging over 12 yards per carry, it’s quite obvious why Hunter made the list for NFL Draft Risers this week. He’s a “traitsy” back who has emerged as a star on the Tigers offense and fully broke out this week.
Hunter’s current makeup of flash-over-substance groups him in with the yearly slew of late-round backs. His NFL projection has often been described as a role-specific and rotational back. However, he could elevate himself into the draft’s middle rounds and be given a chance at a larger role.
Potential Team Fit: Dallas Cowboys
QB Max Brosmer, Minnesota
Max Brosmer has been a consistent presence for the Minnesota Gophers offense and does all the little things well. He turned in his best game of the season against Maryland this week. The senior threw for 320 yards and four touchdowns while completing 78.8% of his throws. He has continued to display his reliable play style and mechanically sound processing.
The influx of late-round QBs like Brock Purdy making their way into the spotlight and winning games has caused teams to take more chances on similar prospects. Brosmer is a signal caller who could benefit from said change with little development needed in his mechanics. His play has also created and instilled confidence that he won’t make crucial mistakes. If he can stay the course, his name could very well be called in April.
Potential Team Fit: Tennessee Titans
Main Image: Chris Jones – USA Today Sports
