NFL Draft

As the NFL Draft gets closer each day, predictions for picks are running high by analysts and fans alike. Will FSU quarterback Jameis Winston go #1 or will be it be Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the first pick and many people predict the team will select Winston. From a marketing and revenue standpoint, Winston is the clear winner. With a large Seminole alumni and fan base, the interest is already there. The Bucs have continued to struggle in recent years. While his on-field performance, Winston has proven his skills countless times, however his off-field behavior and decisions have many questioning his character and may impose a risk for any potential teams.

Both Winston and Mariota had successful seasons and have proven their capabilities in high-pressure games. In addition to the Bucs, the Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins have the other top four picks, respectively. Offensive linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. (Florida), defensive end Leonard Williams (USC), wide receiver Amari Cooper (Alabama), offensive linebacker Vic Beasley (Clemson), guard Brandon Scherff (Iowa), wide receiver Kevin White (West Virginia) and defensive end Shane Ray (Missouri) are additional prospects whose names are repetitively raised as top draft prospects. Similar to the Bucs, the Jags selecting Fowler Jr. seems like a no-brainer from a marketing and ticket sales perspective. Jacksonville has a large Florida Gator alumni base. As Super Bowl champions, finishing last season on the highest note, the New England Patriots will have the 32nd and final pick in the first round of this year’s draft.

The NFL draft has been held in New York City since 1963. Prior to 1963, it was held in Chicago where it will return this year. Round 1 begins on April 30th, rounds 2 and 3 will take place on May 1st and rounds 4-7 will conclude on Saturday, May 2nd.