As part of my end-of-year evaluation process, I reach out extensively to NFL scouts as they prepare their senior reports ahead of the December deadlines.
During a recent conversation with an NFL scouting director, he highlighted five senior prospects he believes have seen significant draft stock increases over the past six months. While he mentioned several names, these five stood out as having made the most substantial improvements.
Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M
Howell is a standout in the SEC, leading with 11.5 sacks and recently featured in my mock draft at No. 25 for the Los Angeles Chargers. Initially, scouts saw him as a potential fifth or sixth-round pick after his transfer from Bowling Green, but he has since entered the conversation for a top-32 selection.
At 6 feet 2 inches and 249 pounds, Howell’s shorter arms (less than 31 inches) can sometimes be exploited against him, particularly in run defense. However, his explosive first step, along with a powerful and flexible pass rush technique, makes him a significant threat. The scouting director repeatedly referred to Howell’s “juice” when discussing his pass rush, solidifying his chances for a high draft pick.
Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State
Despite Georgia State’s struggles with only four wins over the past two seasons, Hurst has emerged as a key player since transferring from Division II Valdosta State. In his two seasons, he has produced 127 catches for 1,965 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Standing at 6-3 and weighing 195 pounds, with long arms and quick footwork, Hurst possesses a captivating athletic profile. He is known for his vertical speed (4.4) and has shown potential to improve his catch radius. Initially viewed as a “wait-and-see” free agent, he is now regarded as a potential top-100 prospect entering the draft process.
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Rodriguez’s presence on this list isn’t surprising, as he was previously seen as undraftable before this season. His performance has prompted scouts to modify their assessments. He is a former four-sport athlete who, after shifting positions from quarterback to linebacker at Texas Tech, has demonstrated steady improvement.
Known for his ability to force turnovers, Rodriguez has recorded seven forced fumbles this season alone, bringing his career total to 13. Although not exceptionally fast, his instincts allow him to be in position to make impactful plays. He will need strong workouts to solidify his Day 2 draft prospects, but the fact that he’s even being discussed at this level speaks volumes compared to his preseason status.
Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State
The FCS playoffs recently witnessed a shocking upset as Illinois State eliminated North Dakota State, with Payton suffering a thumb injury towards the end of the game. Despite the disappointing conclusion, his senior season was noteworthy; having previously been a backup, he accounted for 29 touchdowns in 2025, showcasing a strong arm reminiscent of Michael Penix Jr.
At 6-2 and 230 pounds, Payton is an intriguing dual-threat quarterback. Prior to the season, he was viewed as a potential undrafted free agent or H-back option, but now he’s considered a mid-round quarterback prospect.
Mike Washington, RB, Arkansas
A two-time transfer who started at Buffalo and then spent a season at New Mexico State, Washington found success at Arkansas, becoming one of six FBS rushers to exceed 1,000 yards while averaging 6.4 yards per carry in 2025.
At 6-0 and 225 pounds, Washington has an athletic build, marked by physicality and bursts of speed. While scouts were already aware of his physical attributes, his improved vision and ability to follow blocks have impressed. After being regarded as a possible low-end undrafted free agent six months ago, he is now attracting Day 3 draft grades from NFL teams.
