The 2016 NFL Draft is still roughly eight months away, but it's never too early to start looking at the top prospects. With the NFL Draft so far away, this list will likely look much different than it will come April. Here are top six prospects for the 2016 NFL Draft.
6. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State
There might not be more polarizing prospect this year. Hackenberg looks like an NFL QB and has all the tools. However, he had a rough year last season, playing behind a terrible Penn State offensive line. He lacked weapons and seemed frustrated much of the season. He's got two years of eligibility left, but if he has a strong season, Hackenberg might end up as the No. 1 pick.
5. Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss
The former No. 1 overall recruit, Nkemdiche's ceiling is as high as any defensive line prospect in recent memory. He's strong enough to stop the run and quick enough to get to the passer. He'll face plenty of double teams this season, but he'll look strong on tape.
4. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
Another highly recruited Ole Miss player, Tunsil looks like a future stud blindside protector. He'd be the top tackle in most drafts, but will face tough competition this season.
3. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Stanley is a little bit bigger than Tunsil and has a slightly higher ceiling. Either Tunsil or Stanley would make any QB happy.
2. Jaylon Smith, OLB, Notre Dame
Linebackers typically don't go high in drafts, but Smith could be the exception. He's a freak athlete who can play multiple positions. He can play middle linebacker, outside linebacker and a little bit of defensive end. He's got great coverage skills and incredible pursuit ability. If he was smaller, he could be a star safety. If he adds a few pass rushing moves, Smith could be a Von Miller-type pass rusher. For now, he'll have to settle for a Patrick Willis comparison.
1. Joey Bosa, DE, OSU
Had he been eligible, Bosa might have been the first pick in this year's NFL Draft. It's not fair to compare him to J.J. Watt, because Watt is a once-in-a-lifetime talent. Still, Bosa is one of the better defensive end prospects in recent memory. He'll be a stud in either a 4-3 or 3-4 defense, because he does stuff like this.
Bosa might not end up being the first overall pick because he's not a QB, but he's the best prospect right now.
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