Underclassmen Allowed to Play in College All-Star Games

Frank Coyle/ Publisher

Happy Veterans Day – Honoring All Who Served

The NFL Informs Teams NFL Draft-eligible Underclassmen Allowed to Play in College All-Star Games

NFL office announced this week that any underclassman granted eligibility for the 2024 NFL Draft can be invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl, HBCU Legacy Bowl and Senior Bowl. No other all-star game is allowed by the league to invite underclassmen.

This is a significant change to the pre-draft process that should help provide a platform for prospects who often don’t declare until late in the offseason. Current Senior Bowl director Jim Nagy will implement the new conditions for building rosters for the All-star classic. Other directors will also expand their scouting to accommodate the new rules which can

NFL Deadline for underclassmen to declare for NFL Draft 2024 – Monday, January 15th

The underclassmen have had a smaller window to expose their skills to NFL scouts. In the past, underclassmen not invited to the NFL Scouting Combine relied on school pro days and private workouts leading up to the NFL Draft when seeking an audience of scouts.

The past few years also have seen a downturn in the number of underclassmen granted special eligibility. It hit a high-water mark in 2018, when 106 underclassmen were approved, but that number has fallen since – from 99 in 2021 to 73 in 2022 and 69 in 2023.

There have been sweeping changes in college athletics over that span, with the proliferation of NIL deals and the transfer portal opening up more opportunities for college athletes.

Former Senior Bowl director Phil Savage (2021-2018) initiated admitting fourth-year juniors who have completed their degrees during this tenure at the Senior Bowl. The vast majority of underclassmen were previously ineligible to play in all-star events.

The deadline for underclassmen to apply for special eligibility for the 2024 NFL Draft is Jan. 15.

The East-West Shrine Bowl is scheduled to be played on Thursday, Feb. 1 and the Senior Bowl is to be held on Saturday, Feb. 3. The HBCU Legacy Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 24. All three games will be broadcast on NFL Network. The NFLPA game has been eliminated and integrated into the Senior Bowl event.

Feb. 27 -March 4
NFL Scouting Combine, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS and ESPN on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

The 2023 NFL Trade Deadline – Player Movement

 Frank Coyle / Head scout 

NFL 2023 trade deadline was fairly active this year with several deals involving top players who can make a difference over the 2^nd half of the season. Most of the high-level trades involved defensive players with NFC West rivals, the Seahawks and 49ers landing impact edge defenders. Most other trades were for starters with many deals involving receivers and secondary players.    

Recap of NFL trades made in October 2023 through the deadline
     We will update the complete list of traded selections this week   
 
NFL Trades

  Most recent trades – All draft selections in 2024 unless otherwise noted
 
Bills receive: Cornerback Rasul Douglas plus a 5th-round pick
Packers receive: 3rd-round pick
 
Lions receive: Wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones
Browns receive: 6th-round pick (2025)
 
49ers receive: Defensive end Chase Young
Commanders receive: 3rd-round pick
 
Jaguars receive: Guard Ezra Cleveland
Vikings receive: 6th-round pick
 
Vikings receive: QB Josh Dobbs plus 7th-round pick
Cardinals receive: 6th-round pick
 
Bears receive: Defensive end Montez Sweat
Commanders receive: 2nd-round pick
 
Seahawks receive: Defensive lineman Leonard Williams
Giants receive: 2nd-round pick plus 5th-round pick (2025)
 
Eagles receive: Safety Kevin Byard
Titans receive: Safety Terrell Edmunds, 5th-round pick & 6th-round pick
 
Falcons receive: DL Kentavius Street plus 7th-round pick (2025)
Eagles receive: 6th-round pick
 
Chiefs receive: WR Mecole Hardman plus 7th-round pick (2025)
    Jets receive: 6th-round pick (2025)
 
Falcons receive: WR Van Jefferson plus 7th-round pick (2025)
Rams receive: 6th-round pick (2025)
 
49ers receive: LB Randy Gregory plus 7th-round pick
Broncos receive: 6th-round pick 
 
Dolphins receive: WR Chase Claypool plus 7th-round pick (2025)
Bears receive: 6th-round pick (2025)
 
Patriots receive: CB J.C. Jackson plus exchange 6th & 7th-round picks (2025)
 Chargers receive: 6th & 7th round picks (2025)
 

NFL Trade Deadline

  Frank Coyle/ NFL Insider

 Playoff Clubs Working Deals at the 11^th Hour
 Giants Trade DL Leo Williams to Seahawks

    The NFL trade deadline is today, Oct. 31 with clubs working the phones diligently seeking deals for the 2nd half playoff stretch run. Expect an active day of deals involving quality starters. The NFL trade date in 2024 opens in mid-March.   

 NFL Teams – possible available players

 NFC

 Bears
  CB Jaylon Johnson  
        Bills, Cowboys, 49ers and Chiefs interested in solid starter.
 
Commanders
   Edge Chase Young
       His name is in many conversations for a #2 pick. May remain in DC and get tagged in March   
   Edge Montez Sweat
      Playmaker can provide impact off the edge. Chiefs, Bears and Bucs interested
  
Cowboys
     Seeking runner like Derek Henry and Dalvin Cook before deadline 
 An OL is always on the agenda and LT Garett Bolles has drawn interest.

Giants
  CB Adoree Jackson
       Bills, Seahawks, Chargers and Bears have made calls with a 2nd day draft pick on the table 
 
   WR Darius Slayton
      Veteran can stretch the field and a few playoff clubs have inquired
 
  WR Parris Campbell
     Never settled into GMen offense
 
  DT A’Shawn Robinson
       Veteran will get interest from the Jets, Bucs and Falcons for a 3^rd day pick
 
  CB Darney Holmes
    Veteran put up respectable grades in the nickel role
 
  Eagles
     Derek Barnett is being shopped around for a conditional late pick
 
Panthers
   Impact edge rusher Brian Burns getting inquires, though two #1 picks too high to move
 
  WR Terrance Marshall is on the block. The 3^rd day pick gets it done. Chiefs and 49ers have made calls.
 
Cardinals
    S Budda Baker will cost a 2^nd day selection with Jaguars, Bengals and Browns
    WR Marquise Brown has drawn interest with Browns, Falcons and Bucs in line.

Vikings
  DE Danielle Hunter – Playmaker can change games. Ravens, Chiefs and Chargers in pursuit  
 
AFC
   Jets
   RB Dalvin Cook
       Veteran could move with contenders like Ravens, Cowboys, Bucs and Bills interested
       Jets looking for OL after interior injuries last weekend.
 
   Patriots
     TE Hunter Henry getting interest from Bengals, Cowboys, Eagles and Seahawks  
 
   Dolphins
     Seeking offensive lineman and defensive players especially in the front seven. Like LT Garett Bolles for a 3^rd round selection.
 
   Ravens 
     Looking to add a running back with Jonathan Taylor, Dalvin Cook and Derek Henry at the top of their list.
 
Titans
   RB Derek Henry
       Playoff clubs thinking he can be the difference in January. Ravens, Cowboys, Bills, Eagles and Bucs in pursuit
 
 QB Ryan Tannehill – Clubs with injuries especially contenders like the Jets, Falcons and Vikings making calls.  
 
WR DeAndre Hopkins is still a playmaker with impact talent. Clubs like the Falcons, Bucs and Cowboys offering a 2nd day selection
 
Broncos
    WR Jerry Jeudy
   Starting to become a problem child, though a talented playmaker who will command interest
 
    WR Courtland Sutton
   Quality possession receiver could move
 
    OT Garett Bolles
   Underrated LT with consistently good grades. Clubs like Jets, Cowboys, Dolphins and Bills interested
 
   CB Patrick Surtain
      Blue chip young cover man will command a huge price with Bills, Giants, Cowboys and 49ers at the head of the line
 
Chiefs
   Interested in adding playmakers on both sides of the ball. They will inquire for edge rushers, Brian Burns and Chase Young
 
  WR Richie James is expected to move for a late conditional pick.
 
Raiders
   WR Devante Adams is hoping to move. All-Pro performer would command #1 pick plus and maybe best to move on. Ravens, Bills, Steelers and Cowboys seeking difference maker in the passing game.
 

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He publishes an annual NFL Free Agency Report will extensive insight on NFL player evaluation.  He is a member of the FWAA and voter in major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS and ESPN on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 Poll
 First CFP Poll -Tuesday, Oct. 31st

Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State, Washington & Florida State Remain Unbeaten at Midseason

 Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll – Week Nine
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Teams of the Week
Oregon Drills Utah – 35-6
Kansas Shocks Oklahoma – 38-33
 
Players of the Week
Offense – RB Olie Gordon II – Oklahoma State
Defense – S Xavier Watts – Notre Dame

Upcoming Games – Nov. 4th
Missouri @ Georgia
Washington @ Southern Cal
LSU @ Alabama

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia                        8-0                   
2          Michigan                      8-0                   
3          Ohio State                    8-0                   
4          Florida State                8-0
5          Washington                  8-0       
6          Oregon                         7-1
7          Alabama                      7-1
8          Ole Miss                       7-1
9          Oklahoma                    7-1
10         Texas                           7-1                   
11         Penn State                   7-1
12         Louisville                     7-1
13         Notre Dame                  7-2
14         Missouri                      7-1
15         Utah                             6-2
16        LSU                              6-2
17         Air Force                      8-0
18         Kansas                         6-2
19         Tennessee                    6-2       
20         Oregon State                6-2
21         USC                             7-2
22         James Madison            8-0
23         North Carolina             6-2
24        Tulane                          7-1
25         UCLA                           6-2

Others receiving consideration: Iowa, Kansas State, Florida, Fresno State, Miami, Maryland, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, Kentucky, Washington State, Wisconsin, Miami, Clemson, Arizona, South Carolina, Duke, Syracuse, Cincinnati, Mississippi State, BYU, Wyoming, Wake Forest, SMU and Liberty

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll

Rank    Team          Record     Points
1 Georgia (58)               8-0        1590
2 Michigan (3)               8-0        1520
3 Ohio State (3)             8-0        1454
4 Florida State               8-0        1439
5 Washington                8-0        1344
6 Texas                           7-1        1212
7 Oregon                        7-1        1211
8 Alabama                     7-1        1187
9 Penn State                 7-1        1072
10 Ole Miss                   7-1        1021
11 Oklahoma                 7-1        948
12 Notre Dame             7-2        847
13 LSU                           6-2        809
14 Missouri                   7-1        741
15 Louisville                  7-1        701
16 Tennessee                6-2        553
17 Air Force                  8-0        523
18 Utah                          6-2        509
19 Oregon State           6-2        465
20 UCLA                       6-2        309
21 Tulane                      7-1        304
22 USC                          7-2        239
23 Kansas                      6-2        182
24 James Madison       8-0        169
25 North Carolina        6-2        120

Others receiving votes: Kansas State 85, Oklahoma State 62, Fresno State 51, Miami 35, Duke 33, Iowa 20, Arizona 18, Liberty 15, SMU 6, Florida 3, Toledo 1, UNLV 1, Kentucky 1

Dropped from rankings: Duke 21

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 8

Teams of the Week 
Ravens Blast Lions
Vikings Shock 49ers

Players of the Week
  NFC
   Offense – WR  A.J. Browns – Eagles
   Defense – DT Dexter Lawrence – Giants

 AFC
   Offense – QB Lamar Jackson – Ravens
   Defense – Edge defenders, TJ Watt – Steelers & Myles Garrett – Browns

Rookies of the Week
   Offense – QB Tyson Bagent – Bears
   Defense – CB Dre Banks – Giants

Games of Week 8
Sunday
Jets @ Giants – 1:00 pm
Cleveland Browns @ Seattle Seahawks – 4:05 pm
Cincinnati Bengals @ San Fran 49ers – 4:30 pm

Monday night
Las Vegas Raiders @ Detroit Lions – 8:15 pm
 
Bye teams – None

NFL Team Power Poll

Draft Insiders’ Staff – Frank Coyle/Publisher

Ranking /Team / Record

#1 – Chiefs – 6-1
Chiefs manhandled the Chargers again to gain a three game lead in the AFC West. Travel to Denver for another AFC West matchup where they continue to dominate.

#2 – Eagles – 6-1
The Eagles benefit from ‘Homer’ calls to beat the Dolphins. QB Jalen Hurts making continuous turnovers which may turn to a heavy ground game through the rest of the season.

#3 – 49ers – 5-2
The 49ers lost a 2^nd game in a row for the first time since Oct 2022. Injury concerns with Deebo Samuel out limits this offense with a few QB Brock Purdy key turnovers difficult to overcome. Host the Bengals

#4 – Ravens – 5-2
The Ravens drilled the Lions in a physical battle. Travel to the desert to face the Cardinals. They have their eye on the trade market over the weekend.

#5 – Dolphins – 5-2
Dolphins lost to the Eagles with a few poor key penalties deciding the outcome. Back to the drawing board with the Patriots coming to town in a key AFC East battle with first place in the balance.

#6 – Jaguars – 5-2
Jaguars won their 4^th straight game to solidify first place in the AFC South. QB Trevor Lawrence has joined the elite in just his third season. Travel to Pittsburgh for key AFC battle of contenders.

#7 – Seahawks – 4-2
Seahawks host the Browns in a matchup of two of the most physical clubs in the league. Geno Smith has regained his rhyme coupled with a strong ground game to challenge the tough Browns defense.

#8 – Lions – 5-2
The Lions came out flat vs the Ravens and never recovered. Host the Raiders on Monday night looking to maintain their short NFC North lead.

#9 – Bills – 4-3
Bills fell late to the Patriots as their defense came up short repeatedly. Host the Bucs on Thursday night in an important matchup for both clubs in very competitive divisional races.

#10 – Cowboys – 4-2
The Cowboys are well rested coming off their bye week. Host the Rams on Sunday with the loser facing an uphill challenge the rest of the season.

#11 – Browns – 4-2
Browns edged the Colts which keeps them in strong contention. QB Deshaun Watson is still week to week. Travel to Seattle for a key matchup where the winner gains strong postseason position.

#12 – Bengals – 3-3
The Bengals are coming off their bye week and travel to San Fran to face the struggling 49ers. QB Joe Burrow is the healthiest he has been all season. They look to escape the AFC North basement here.

#13 – Bucs – 3-3
Bucs are coming off back-to-back losses. Travel to Buffalo to face the equally faltering Bills. Bucs offense needs to step up here.

#14 – Jets – 3-3
Jets are well rested for the Giants contest with both clubs facing a must win situation. Their pass rush may be the difference here with limited offensive production.

#15 – Steelers – 4-2
Steelers were physical in their win over the Rams. QB Kenny Pickett does not blink and gives them the leader they want. Host the Jaguars in a major AFC test among strong contenders.

#16 – Falcons – 4-3
Falcons edged NFC South rival the Bucs last week. Playing hot and cold with their offense struggling weekly to establish an identity. Travel to Tennessee looking to maintain their divisional leadership.

#17 – Rams – 3-4
Rams failed in big spots to the Steelers. Travel to Dallas for crucial NFC matchup where a lose is a major hit to their playoff hopes.

#18 – Texans – 3-3
The young Texans come off their bye week and travel to Carolina in a battle of rookie 1^st round QBs, CJ Stroud and Bryce Young.  This club is hungry and playing loss under new HC DeMeco Ryans.

#19 – Chargers -2-4
The Chargers are the biggest pretenders in the league. Host the resurgent Bears on Sunday night in a must win situation for their postseason aspirations.

#20 – Giants – 2-5
The Giants beat the Commanders behind backup QB Tyrod Taylor. Host the Jets in a gut check for any postseason aspirations. Offensive line faces a major test vs the Jets talented defensive front.

#21 – Commanders – 3-4
The Commanders fell to the GMen in a defensive struggle. Host the Eagles in a desperate situation for turning this season around.

#22 – Raiders – 3-4
Raiders were blasted by a rookie QB last week in a key opportunity to get into the AFC race. Travel to Detroit for a Monday night matchup which could define their season.

#23 – Vikings – 3-4
Vikings jumped the 49ers on Monday night.  Look to keep the momentum vs the Packers in Green Bay. QB Kirk Cousins continues to carry this club and stay competitive vs anyone.

#24 – Patriots – 2-5
The Pats won a must win situation vs the Bills. QB Mac Jones had his best performance of the season.  Face the tough Miami offense on the road this week and need Jones to continue to continue his hot hand.

#25 – Saints – 3-4
The Saints lost another close game this time to the Jaguars. Travel to Indy with a chance to get to the .500 mark entering the 2^nd half of the year.

#26- Colts – 3-4
Colts lost a heartbreaker to the Browns. Host the Saints this week, hoping runner Jonathan Taylor begins to make an impact.

#27 – Titans – 2-4
The Titans comes off their bye week and announced rookie QB Will Levis gets the starting assignment vs
the Falcons. Their inept offense continues to struggle and looks to turn the page with an eye of the future.

#28 – Broncos – 2-5
Broncos edged the Packers last week. Host the Chiefs this week and face the trading deadline with a few more moves expected.

#29 – Packers – 2-4
The Packers lost to Denver last week. Young QB Jordan Love is going through the growing pain of starting in the NFL. Host the Vikings this week.

#30 – Bears – 2-5
The Bears shocked the Raiders last week with rookie QB Tyson Bagent directing their attack.  Travel to LA to face the desperate Chargers this week.

#31 – Cardinals – 1-6
Cardinals were drilled by the Seahawks last week. Host the buzzsaw Ravens this week. They could trade several veterans over the next few days to build draft capital for April.

#32 – Panthers – 0-6
Panthers come off their bye week and host the hot Texans. Looking for their first win for new staff and player leaders.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS and ESPN on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Draft Insiders’ Midseason All-American Teams

First & Second Teams All-American Teams

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

First Team Offense

QB Michael Penix Jr. – Washington
RB Audric Estime – Notre Dame
RB Jonathon Brooks – Texas
WR Malik Nabers – LSU
WR Rome Odunze – Washington
WR Marvin Harrison Jr. – Ohio State
TE Brock Bowers – Georgia
OT Joe Alt – Notre Dame
OT Olu Fashanu – Penn State
OG Cooper Beebe – Kansas State
OG Zak Zinter – Michigan
C Jackson Powers-Johnson – Oregon

All-Purpose Ashton Jeanty – Boise State
PK Will Reichard – Alabama

First Team Defense

Edge Laiatu Latu – UCLA
Edge Dallas Turner – Alabama
DL Howard Cross III – Notre Dame
DL Jer’Zhan Newton – Illinois
LB Payton Wilson – North Carolina State
LB Edgerrin Cooper – Texas A&M
CB Kool-aid McKinstry – Alabama
CB Kris Abrams-Draine – Missouri
CB Cooper DeJean – Iowa
S Malaki Starks – Georgia
S Jaylin Simpson – Auburn
P Tory Taylor – Iowa

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Second Team All-American Team

Second Team Offense

QB Drake Maye – North Carolina
RB Ray Davis – Kentucky
RB Braelon Allen – Wisconsin
WR Keon Coleman – Florida State
WR Luther Burden III – Missouri
WR Emeka Egbuka – Ohio State
TE Cade Stover – Ohio State
OT Taliese Fuaga – Oregon State
OT Javon Foster – Missouri
G Donovan Jackson – Ohio State
G Christian Haynes – UConn
C Sedrick Van Pran – Georgia
All-Purpose – Travis Hunter – Colorado
PK Harrison Melvis – Missouri

Second Team Defense

Edge JT Tuimoloau – Ohio State
Edge Jonah Elliss – Utah
DL T’Vondre Sweat – Texas
DL Kris Jenkins – Michigan
LB Danny Stutsman – Oklahoma
LB Harold Perkins – LSU
LB Jason Henderson – Old Dominion
CB Ben Morrison – Notre Dame
CB Kamari Lassiter – Georgia
CB Denzel Burke – Ohio State
S Tyler Nubin – Minnesota
S Calen Bullock – USC
P Matthew Hayball – Vanderbilt

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 7

Teams of the Week 

Jets Shock Eagles
Browns Surprise 49ers

Players of the Week
  NFC
   Offense – QB Jared Goff – Lions
   Defense – LB Bobby Okereke – Giants
 
 AFC
   Offense – TE Travis Kelce – Chiefs
   Defense – DT Christian Wilkins – Dolphins
  
Rookie of the Week
   Defense – CB Dre Banks – Giants
 
Games of Week 7
Sunday
Detroit @ Baltimore – 1:00 pm
LA Chargers @ Kansas City – 4:30 pm
Miami @ Philadelphia – 8:20 pm
 
Bye teams – Bengals, Texans, Jets, Titans, Panthers & Cowboys
 

NFL Team Power Poll
Draft Insiders’ Staff – Frank Coyle/Publisher

Ranking / Team / Record

#1 – Chiefs – 5-1
Chiefs handled the Broncos. Stay in AFC West hosting the Chargers this week. Still the champ to someone dethrones them.

#2 – 49ers – 5-1
The 49ers ran into a defensive buzzsaw in Cleveland to lose their first game. Some injury concerns this week, though an extra day traveling to Minnesota for Monday night.

#3 – Eagles – 5-1
The Eagles were blasted by the tough Jets defense to taste defeat for the first time. Offense struggled when facing a strong rush. Host the Dolphins Sunday night in a major interconference battle.

#4 – Dolphins – 5-1
Dolphins blasted the Panthers last week. Rookie runner Devon Achane is out with an injury. Miami offensive line faces a huge test vs the Eagles strong front four.

#5 – Lions – 5-1
The Lions have played up to the hype and look the class of the NFC North. Travel to Baltimore Sunday in a battle of two physical clubs who take no prisoners.

#6 – Bills – 4-2
Bills hung on to edge the Giants. Travel to New England hoping to stay close to the Dolphins. They play up and down to the competition which must change to win consistently.

#7 – Cowboys – 4-2
The Cowboys came up big vs the Chargers Sunday night. QB Dak Prescott responded to the challenge. Bye week this weekend. Face a 7 game NFC schedule through early December.

#8 – Ravens – 4-2
The Ravens beat the Titans in London behind a strong defense. Host the Lions in a classic physical battle where the Ravens usually thrive.

#9 – Seahawks – 3-2
Seahawks were edged by the Bengals in a tight contest. Offense is struggling over recent weeks.
Host the Cardinals this week looking to stay abreast in the NFC West.

#10 – Jaguars – 4-2
Jaguars beat South rival, the Colts to take divisional leadership. QB Trevor Lawrence continues to make clutch plays in big spots. Travel to New Orleans for Thursday night battle of contenders.

#11 – Bucs – 3-2
Bucs fell to the Lions in an important NFC conference matchup. They host the Falcons in a key NFC South battle with first place in the balance.

#12 – Browns – 3-2
Browns wacked the 49ers behind their tough defense which shut them down across the board. QB Deshaun Watson was out and is still week to week. Travel to Indianapolis for a key AFC matchup most likely behind backup QB PJ Walker. He must cut down on his turnovers.

#13 – Jets – 3-3
Jets beat the Eagles in a dramatic victory. The defense ranks with any unit in the league. They get their bye this week. They play five of the next seven games in Met Life.

#14 – Rams – 3-3
Rams drilled the Cardinals behind Matthew Stafford. Host the Steelers in a pivotal game for both clubs.

#15 – Bengals – 3-3
The Bengals edged the Seahawks in a tough defensive struggle. They get their bye week to get their offense right after a poor first half performance.

#16 – Chargers -2-3
The erratic Chargers lost to the Cowboys in a close matchup. They find a way to lose close games. Travel to KC this week in a must win situation.

#17 – Commanders – 3-3
The Commanders beat the Falcons behind a strong defensive performance.  Travel to MetLife to face the desperate GMen in a NFC East contest.

#18 – Steelers – 3-2
Steelers are coming off their bye week. Travel to LA to face the Rams who will test the Steelers defense to the limit.

#19 – Raiders – 3-3
Raiders are getting it done in big spots and on a short winning streak. Their strong defensive unit behind impact edge defender DE Maxx Crosby has been the difference. Travel to Chicago looking to get over .500 and into playoff contention.

#20 – Saints – 3-3
The Saints lost at home to the upstart Texans. Their offense continues to struggle minimizing a solid defense. They host the Jaguars Thursday night which can decide their direction through the 2^nd half.

#21- Falcons – 3-3
Falcons came up short vs the Commanders especially their defense. Young QB Ridder faces a pivotal matchup in Tamp this week with his starting job in the balance.

#22 – Texans – 3-3
The young Texans came up big in New Orleans with a strong defensive performance. They get their bye week to prepare for a favorable midseason schedule. Rookie QB CJ Stroud continues to develop as a quality starter.

#23 – Packers – 2-3
The Packers come off their bye week and travel to Denver to face the struggling Broncos. Young QB Jordan Love needs to step up and get this offense moving.

#24- Colts – 3-3
Colts lost rookie QB Anthony Richardson for the season. Host the tough Browns this week. Runner Jonathan Taylor hopes to return this week.

#25 – Titans – 2-4
The Titans struggled again last week vs the Ravens. Their offense continues to struggle and gets their
bye week to prepare for the 2nd half of the schedule.

#26 – Vikings – 2-4
Vikings edge the Bears last week. Host the 49ers on Monday night. This club could move several players if they fall out of playoff contention in the next few weeks.

#27 – Giants – 1-5
The Giants played hard vs the Bills, but their struggling offense failed again in big spots. QB Daniel Jones may be back vs the Commanders where they must win to stay within reach of the postseason.

#28 – Patriots – 1-5
The Pats continue to struggle throwing the ball along with poor production from the running game. Host the Bills hoping to surprise them.

#29 – Bears – 1-5
The Bears lost to the Vikings in addition to losing QB Justin Fields. Host the Raiders this week looking to build for the future.

#30 – Cardinals – 1-5
Cardinals were toasted by the Rams last week. They could trade several veterans over the next two weeks to build draft capital for April.

#31 – Broncos – 1-5
Broncos were bashed by the Chiefs last week. Host the Packers this week. Club could be facing a huge turnover starting the next two weeks through the postseason after another huge disappointing performance.

#32 – Panthers – 0-6
Panthers were bombed by the Dolphins last week. This young club gets their bye week to regroup entering the 2^nd half. Face a tough learning curve going forward.
Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS and ESPN on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 6

Teams of the Week 
   49ers Pounds Cowboys 42-10 in key NFC Matchup
   Jaguars Edge Bills 25-20 in London

Players of the Week
  NFC
   Offense – QB Brock Purdy – 49ers
   Defense – LB Fred Warner – 49ers
 
 AFC
   Offense – QB Trevor Lawrence – Jaguars
   Defense – DE Maxx Crosby – Raiders
  
Rookies of the Week
  Offense – RB De’Von Achane – Dolphins  
  Defense – DT Jalen Carter – Eagles
 
Games of Week 6
Sunday
Seattle @ Cincinnati – 1:00 pm
Detroit @ Tampa – 4:25 pm
 
Bye teams – Steelers & Packers
 

NFL Team Power Poll
Draft Insiders’ Staff – Frank Coyle/Publisher

Ranking / Team /Record
#1 – 49ers – 5-0
The 49ers are hitting on all cylinders and crushed the Cowboys on Sunday night. Explosive Christian McCaffrey and mature QB Brock Purdy have this attack rolling. Travel to Cleveland in a tough matchup.

#2 – Chiefs – 4-1
Chiefs handled the Vikings. Mahomes can pull the strings directing this attack. Host the desperate Broncos on Thursday night.

#3 – Eagles – 5-0
The Eagles edged the Rams last week. Their defense has benefited from the impact of rookie DT Jalen Carter. Travel to MetLife to face the Jets in a key matchup.

#4 – Dolphins – 4-1
Dolphins blitzed the GMen behind their explosive offense and aggressive defense. Host the winless Panthers this week, featuring two Bama passers.

#5 – Lions – 4-1
The Lions are focused weekly and taking care of business with a win over the Panthers. Travel to Tampa to face the resurgent Bucs in a key NFC matchup.

#6 – Bills – 3-2
Bills lost an important AFC matchup vs the Jaguars. QB Josh Allen made a few key turnovers while the defense came up short in big spots. Host the GMen on Sunday night.

#7 – Cowboys – 3-2
The Cowboys were bombed by the 49ers on Sunday night behind a poor performance by Dak Prescott.  Travel to LA to face the Chargers this Monday night in an important interconference matchup.

#8 – Ravens – 3-2
The Ravens came up short vs arch rival, the Steelers in an important AFC North contest. Travel to London to face the mediocre Titans. Ravens need to stay abreast in the tough AFC North playoff picture.

#9 – Seahawks – 3-1
Seahawks are rested coming off their bye week. They travel to Cincinnati to face the Bengals who are looking to get to the .500 mark. Seahawks QB Geno Smith got an extra week to heal from his high ankle sprain.

#10 – Jaguars – 3-2
Jaguars won back to back games in London with a clutch victory over the Bills. QB Trevor Lawrence continues to emerge in year three into the elite QB class. Host the Colts in a matchup that will determine AFC South leadership.

#11 – Bucs – 3-1
Bucs are coming off their bye week and host the tough Lions in an important NFC conference matchup. This can have huge postseason ramifications over time with both clubs stepping up to compete for their division leadership.

#12 – Chargers -2-2
The hot and cold Chargers are well rested coming off their bye week. They host the Cowboys this Monday night before facing divisional rival the Chiefs the following week.

#13 – Browns – 2-2
Browns licked their wounds on their bye week after being bashed by the Ravens. QB Deshaun Watson has had two weeks to heal and prepare for the 49ers to come to town. Watson needs to become a leader now with the deep AFC showing many playoff clubs in the postseason race.

#14 – Saints – 3-2
The Saints shutout the Patriots to stay abreast in the NFC South. They had their best game of the season and need to follow that with another balanced performance at Houston.

#15 – Steelers – 3-2
Steelers came up big vs the Ravens with QB Kenny Pickett and their defense making clutch plays. They get their bye week to prepare for a favorable midseason schedule where they can gain position for a playoff run.

#16- Falcons – 3-2
Falcons came up big vs the Texans behind a strong performance by young QB Desmond Ridder. He answered the bell after a few shaky performances. Host the Commandeers hoping to show they are legitimate contender.

#17 – Colts – 3-2
Colts beat the Titans in an important divisional matchup. They face the Jaguars with the divisional leadership in the balance. Runner Jonathan Taylor hopes to return to the field.

#18 – Rams – 2-3
Rams fought the Eagles tough, but came up short. Host the Cardinals looking to reach the .500 mark.

#19 – Bengals – 2-3
The Bengals had a breakout offensive explosion behind Joe Barrow and wideout Ja’Marr Chase. Host the Seahawks this week in a vital inter conference matchup where the Bengals need to get to .500 prior to their bye week.

#20 – Raiders – 2-3
Raiders beat the Packers behind a strong defensive effort, relying on a dominant performance by DE Maxx Crosby. Host the Patriots this week and need to get to the .500 mark to start believing in themselves.

#21 – Packers – 2-3
The inconsistent Packers lost in tough matchup vs the Raiders. They get their bye week to regroup for a second half vs mediocre set of clubs. Young QB Jordan Love needs to refine his passing and take the next step in leadership.

#22 – Commanders – 2-3
The Commanders fell to the Bears on Thursday night in their worst effort of the season. They are at the turning point of first half with a key matchup in Atlanta. Young QB Sam Howell needs to step up in an important NFC contest.

#23 – Titans – 2-3
The Titans struggled vs the Colts in a key matchup. Their offense continues to struggle and faces the
tough Ravens defense in London. Time to step up if they want to maintain postseason dreams.

#24 – Texans – 2-3
The young Texans fell short in Atlanta with an inconsistent effort. Rookie QB CJ Stroud had an ordinary performance. Texans host the Saints in a pivotal game for both clubs.

#25 – Patriots – 1-4
The Pats were shutout by the Saints with another weak performance with QB Mac Jones struggling throwing the ball and poor production from the running game. Travel to Vegas to face a tough Raiders defense which is playing very well.

#26 – Jets – 2-3
Jets beat the Broncos behind a rejuvenated offense directed by OC Nate Hackett and young QB Zach Wilson. They face a major home test vs the Eagles with their shaky postseason hopes in the balance.

#27 – Giants – 1-4
The Giants continue to struggle with little protection for banged up QB Daniel Jones. Their defense gives up too many points and yardage. Travel to Buffalo with most key injured players most likely out another week.

#28 – Vikings – 1-4
Vikings came up short vs the Chiefs last week. Travel to Chi-town in a battle with the Bears of cellar dwellers. QB Kirk Cousins could be on the trading block if the Vikes continue to fall in the standings.

#29 – Bears – 1-4
The Bears got into the win column with a strong effort vs the Commanders. Host the Vikings looking to put a winning streak together for the first time in years. QB Justin Fields is starting to put it together with further confidence in each performance.

#30 – Cardinals – 1-4
Cardinals were blasted by the Bengals last week. Young QB Joshua Dobbs is gaining valuable experience vs contenders. Face the Rams in LA that may determine personnel moves soon.

#31 – Broncos – 1-4
Broncos were handled by the Jets in the Coaches bowl. Broncos’ defense has given up the most points in the league and QB Russell Wilson is past his prime. Face the Chiefs in KC as the meat grinder continues.

#32 – Panthers – 0-5
Panthers were bombed by the Lions. Young club is going through the growing pains especially an inexperienced offense. Travel to Miami to face the explosive Dolphin track team.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS and ESPN on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 Poll

Sooners Beat Longhorns in Red River Shootout
Louisville Edges Notre Dame
 
Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll 2023 – Week Six
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Teams of the Week
Oklahoma outlasts Texas – 34-30
Louisville Stays Unbeaten beat Irish – 33-20

Players of the Week
Offense – QB Dillon Gabriel – Oklahoma
Defense – S Major Burns – LSU

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia                        6-0                   
2          Michigan                      6-0                   
3          Ohio State                    5-0                   
4          Florida State                5-0       
5          USC                             6-0       
6          Washington                  5-0       
7          Penn State                   5-0
8          Oregon                         5-0
9          Oklahoma                    6-0       
10         North Carolina             5-0       
11         Louisville                     6-0
12         Texas                           5-1                   
13         Alabama                      5-1       
14        Ole Miss                       5-1
15         Utah                             4-1       
16         Notre Dame                  5-2       
17         Duke                            4-1
18         Washington State        4-1       
19         Oregon State                5-1
20         Tennessee                    4-1       
21        LSU                              4-2
22         Missouri                      5-1
23         Kentucky                     5-1
24        Miami                           4-1
25         Kansas                        5-1

Others receiving consideration: Maryland, Texas A&M, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Kansas State, UCLA, Iowa, Clemson, TCU, South Carolina, Syracuse, Fresno State, Cincinnati, James Madison, Air Force, Mississippi State, Tulane, BYU, Wyoming, Arkansas, Wake Forest, UCF and Memphis

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll

Rank    Team                Record Pts
1          Georgia (61)     6-0        1597
2          Michigan           6-0        1512
3          Ohio State (2)   5-0        1443
4          Florida State     5-0        1411
5          Penn State        5-0        1300
6          Washington (1) 5-0        1246
7          Oklahoma         6-0        1200
8          Oregon             5-0        1168
9          USC                 6-0        1121
10         Alabama           5-1        1025
11         Texas               5-1        982
12         North Carolina   5-0        912
13         Ole Miss           5-1        764
14         Oregon State    5-1        713
15         Louisville          6-0        651
16         Utah                 4-1        600
17         Tennessee        4-1        587
18         Duke                4-1        451
19         Washington St  4-1        370
20         LSU                  4-2        355
21         Notre Dame      5-2        324
22         UCLA                4-1        276
23         Kentucky          5-1        159
24         Kansas             5-1        120
25         Missouri            5-1        78

Others receiving votes: Miami 74, Wyoming 60, Air Force 58, Iowa 57, Maryland 37, Clemson 33, West Virginia 24, Wisconsin 23, Texas A&M 22, Tulane 18, James Madison 9, BYU 9, Fresno State 4, Memphis 2, Ohio 2, Florida 2, Liberty 1

Dropped from rankings: Miami 17, Fresno State 24

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 

 Notre Dame Beats Duke in Game of the Week
Key Conference Matchups This Week

 Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll 2023 – Week Six
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Team of the Week
Notre Dame Beats Duke – 17-14

Photo – OT Joe Alt – Notre Dame (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Players of the Week
Offense – QB Bo Nix – Oregon
Defense – DT Howard Cross – Notre Dame

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia                        5-0                   
2          Michigan                      5-0                   
3          Ohio State                    5-0                   
4          Florida State                4-0       
5          USC                             5-0       
6          Washington                  5-0       
7          Texas                           5-0                   
8          Penn State                   5-0
9          Oregon                         5-0
10         Notre Dame                  5-1       
11         Alabama                      4-1       
12         North Carolina             4-0       
13         Oklahoma                    4-0                   
14        Miami                           4-0
15         Utah                             4-1       
16         Duke                            4-1
17         Washington State        4-0       
18        Ole Miss                       4-1
19         Oregon State                4-1                
20         Tennessee                    4-1       
21         Missouri                      5-0
22         Kentucky                     5-0
23         Fresno St.                    5-0
24        LSU                              3-2
25         Louisville                     5-0

Others receiving consideration: Maryland, Texas A&M, Kansas State, UCLA, Iowa, Clemson, TCU, South Carolina, Syracuse, Cincinnati, James Madison, Air Force, Mississippi State, Tulane, Colorado, Wyoming, Arkansas, Wake Forest, UCF and BYU

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll
Rank    Team                Record Pts
1          Georgia (59)      5-0        1589
2          Michigan (1)      5-0        1503
3          Ohio State (2)   4-0        1405
4          Texas (1)          5-0        1381
5          Florida State     4-0        1374
6          Penn State        5-0        1241
7          USC                 5-0        1227
8          Washington (1)  5-0        1199
9          Oregon             5-0        1118
10         Alabama           4-1        996
11         Notre Dame      5-1        925
12         Oklahoma         5-0        888
13         North Carolina   4-0        795
14         Washington St  4-0        711
15         Ole Miss           4-1        617
16         Oregon State    4-1        606
17         Miami               4-0        566
18         Tennessee        4-1        490
19         Utah                 4-1        428
20         Kentucky          5-0        356
21         Duke                4-1        319
22         Missouri            5-0        283
23         LSU                  3-2        169
24         Fresno State     5-0        144
25         Louisville          5-0        99

Others receiving votes: Maryland 81, Kansas State 73, Texas A&M 59, Air Force 32, UCLA 29, Clemson 18, Iowa 17, Wyoming 12, Kansas 11, Tulane 10, James Madison 8, West Virginia 6, BYU 5, Marshall 3, Wisconsin 3, Ohio 2, Memphis 1, Florida 1

Dropped from rankings: Florida 23, Kansas 24, Kansas State 25