The college football season is over; withdrawals, depression, misery. Before you slip into an apathetic stupor for eight months, remember that the NFL Draft is just around the corner! From now until April's NFL Draft, I will be profiling some of the more interesting prospects. I can't promise that I'll get to your favorite player, but if you'd like to see a certain player profiled, shoot us an email and let us know.
Most of us can agree that Dez Bryant is the top receiver in this year's draft. After that, it gets a little hazy. One thing is for certain, though: rounds 2 and 3 will be full of talented wide receivers ripe for the picking. So let's see if we can sort things out a bit and identify this year's #2 wide receiver prospect.
A good starting point is LSU's Brandon LaFell. Depending where you look, you might see LaFell listed as the second to eighth best wide receiver in this year's deep crop of wide outs.
The biggest knock on LaFell has been his inconsistency. He's been knocked for dropping the ball during his time at LSU, perhaps because of his tendency to look up the field before he secures the ball-a common rookie mistake.
Lately, LaFell's critics have been quick to point out his time of 4.57 in the 40 yard dash (4.55 at LSU Pro Day). He says that he strained his hamstring and that hampered his ability in the 40, but LaFell has never been praised for blinding speed anyway. He will never be that deep threat that burns even the deepest safeties and teams understand that. Give him some credit, though; he does accelerate well and has a nice stride that creates separation initially, which may allow him to contribute as a possession receiver in the short- to mid-range right away.
At 6'2, 206 pounds, he is a big frame guy who knows how to use his body to gain the advantage on smaller defenders. He managed just 11 reps on the 225 pound bench press at his Pro Day workout, which was a bit disappointing. Still, he demonstrates exceptional blocking for a wide receiver and knows how to use his size to get off the line quickly and position himself to make the catch.
For what he lacks in speed and agility, LaFell makes up for with his size. He may never develop into that deep threat that can score whenever he touches the ball, but he has the potential to be a solid receiver at the next level.
Most expect LaFell to be a second round talent. There are endless possibilities for LaFell in the second round from the very top of the round (Rams #33, Bucs #35, Chiefs, #36 and #50) to the middle of the round (Dolphins #43, Broncos #45, Giants #46) or even in the later part of the round (Jets #61). The Patriots may make the most sense with three second round picks (#44, 47 and 53) and with Randy Moss not expecting to be back in New England and Wes Welker coming off injury.
You might even see LaFell drop all the way to the third round if teams are put off by a poor/mediocre showing in pre-draft workouts. - Danny Hobrock
Danny is a sports journalist primarily covering college football and professional baseball. His work for Xtra Point Football has garnered national attention and is critically acclaimed. Danny is the former editor of a political and current events website and the editor of our college football content.
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The college football season is over; withdrawals, depression, misery. Before you slip into an apathetic stupor for eight months, remember that the NFL Draft is just around the corner! From now until April's NFL Draft, I will be profiling some of the more interesting prospects. I can't promise that I'll get to your favorite player, but if you'd like to see a certain player profiled, 
