Top Sleeper Prospects to Watch at the 2024 NFL Combine
The NFL Combine is in full swing in Indianapolis, and as always, there are a few under-the-radar prospects who have the opportunity to make a name for themselves and potentially boost their draft stock. These are the players who may not have received much attention leading up to the event but have the potential to turn heads with their performances on the field and in the athletic testing. Let’s take a closer look at six sleeper prospects who could make some noise this week.
EDGE Austin Booker, Kansas
Austin Booker, a junior from Kansas, has decided to enter the draft early, and he’s definitely a player to keep an eye on. Despite being a one-time transfer from Minnesota, Booker has shown great promise with his size and length, allowing him to dip his shoulders and flatten at the high side of his rush. While he was used more situationally at Kansas, his quickness suggests that he can be an impact rusher early in his career. The fact that he only has one year of exposure playing college football could be seen as an opportunity for teams to work with a talented player whose best football is still ahead of him.
DT Myles Murphy, North Carolina
Myles Murphy, a defensive tackle from North Carolina, is another prospect who could surprise scouts at the Combine. He possesses good size and has the ability to occupy space on an NFL defense. However, he needs to develop more pass rush moves and create a plan to win at the point of attack. Despite this, Murphy is a fluid mover who should test well in Indianapolis. As we approach Day 3 of the NFL Draft, teams will be hard-pressed to find an interior player with Murphy’s potential.
EDGE Javon Solomon, Troy
Javon Solomon may not have the ideal height for a pass rusher at 6-foot, 247 pounds, but he makes up for it with his long arms. His reach allows him to engage blockers and dictate action at the line of scrimmage. Solomon is a powerful player who should also perform well in the athletic testing. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded an impressive 31.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
OT Nathan Thomas, Louisiana
When it comes to offensive linemen, mobility and flexibility are crucial qualities that NFL teams look for. Nathan Thomas, an offensive tackle from Louisiana, possesses both in abundance. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 330 pounds, Thomas is built like a guard but has shown the mobility to fit multiple schemes. He excels at working to the second level and executing pulling assignments. While he may be considered a developmental prospect, his potential is undeniable.
WR Jamari Thrash, Louisville
While the other players on this list may shine in athletic testing, Jamari Thrash’s true potential lies in his on-field performance. Although he may not have eye-popping numbers, Thrash’s ability to set up breaks and smoothly transition into his cuts is what sets him apart. With inside-out versatility, he has been a consistent producer over the past two seasons, recording 124 receptions for 1,980 yards and 13 touchdowns. Despite transferring between two different teams, Thrash has proven himself as a reliable target.
LB Trevin Wallace, Kentucky
Trevin Wallace is a junior linebacker from Kentucky who has decided to enter this year’s draft class. He is a relatively young prospect who is still honing his ability to read plays. However, his quick click-and-close ability allows him to accelerate and finish plays in the open field. Coming off his best season yet, Wallace recorded 80 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. His athleticism and size make him an enticing option for teams in need of a linebacker.
As we eagerly await the 2024 NFL Draft, which will take place from April 25-27 in Detroit, it’s important to keep an eye on these sleeper prospects who have the potential to surprise us all. While they may not be the most talked-about players leading up to the event, their performances at the Combine could catapult them into the spotlight. For more draft coverage and updates, be sure to visit CBSSports.com, where you can find the latest draft order, mock drafts, and profiles of eligible prospects.