Two Clemson Tigers Earn First Round NFL Draft Grades From ESPN

Matt Miller of ESPN has given first round NFL draft grades to two players on the Clemson roster, and both are underclassmen.

The criteria he used is as follows:

“NFL teams will not put first-round grades on 31-plus players. Why? The sacred first-round grade is reserved for a player who would be a Day 1 pick in any recent draft year, and the number varies by team and scouting department. One NFC team told me it limits its board to just 15 first-round grades to make scouts be more critical before handing them a special grade. Round 1 grades are reserved for players who are truly worthy of the early pick, not just those who will end up being one.”

DT Bryan Bresee received a first round grade despite a down season from a statistical standpoint. Breseehas dealt with multiple off the field issues that no doubt impacted his season.

“Bresee has missed three games this year because of injury and bereavement but has still shown a massive impact when on the field. At 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, Bresee has developed power to his game that pairs well with his initial quickness and burst. He’s a true three-down interior defender who will immediately boost both the run and pass defense of an NFL scheme.”

DE Myles Murphy also picked up a first round grade.

“Murphy has produced from Day 1 at Clemson, working into the rotation as a true freshman. He has filled the stat sheet with 18.5 sacks and 31 tackles for loss over three seasons while developing rare speed and power. The 6-foot-5, 275-pound Murphy is widely expected to run in the low-4.6s in the 40-yard dash at the combine, too. NFL teams are excited about his pass-rush tools and upside, given his rare burst, power and agility.“

Interesting enough, LB Trenton Simpson did not get the first round grade, although Miller said he was close.