Florida State and Clemson dominated the ACC last year, making it no surprise that the best underclassmen in the conference hail from either team. It’s no secret that the Seminoles boast one of the best young rosters in college football, evident by three juniors making the list and strong safety Karlos Williams just missing out on the top five.
1. Sammy Watkins – Wide Receiver, Clemson
Watkins is most peoples tip to be the first wide receiver off the board next May and it’s easy to see why. A pure speed receiver who has the ability to score any time he touches the football, the six-foot-one Watkins reminds a lot of people of Percy Harvin.
Like every young player Watkins has his floors, with route-running and hands springing to mind. However, at just 20 years old, there is plenty of time to hone the traits that will make him an elite NFL receiver.
2. Timmy Jernigan – Defensive Tackle, Florida State
Underrated by many, Jernigan was hidden behind Tank Carradine and Bjoern Werner in 2012. The sophomore had 45 tackles, eight tackles for a loss and 1.5 sacks which didn’t quite live up to the hype he created in his freshman season. The 298lb Florida native can expect extended playing time in 2013 and should become one of the best defensive lineman in the country.
3.Cameron Erving – Offensive Tackle, Florida State
Erving is an interesting prospect similar to Menelik Watson who left Florida State for the NFL in the 2013 Draft. Erving was redshirted in his freshman year after suffering a back injury before being a back-up defensive tackle in 2011. The 2012 season saw a move to offensive tackle where he and Watson formed a solid duo.
Despite starting all 14 games last season, Erving is far from the finished product. Nevertheless, a more than stellar first season at a new position has turned the heads of scouts around the nation. Erving has the athletic ability to become one of the best tackles in his class and staying in school through 2014 will be essential to his development.
4. Eric Ebron – Tight End, North Carolina
Ebron is an exceptional athlete with a combination of size, speed and strength. The six-foot-four, 245lb tight end will benefit from the return of quarterback Bryn Renner who will be at his best in his senior season.
Ebron is a fast, reliable target over the middle who caught 40 balls for 625 yards a year ago. Ebron is versatile enough to be split out into the slot or kept as an inline blocker. While his blocking needs some work, he has flashed ability in the past. Technique can always be taught and improved.
5. James Wilder, JR – Half Back, Florida State
The Seminoles employed a running back by committee approach in 2012, but with a number of players moving on – including fifth-round pick Chris Thompson – Wilder can expect more carries in the upcoming season as he will split the load with Devonta Freeman.
Wilder is on this list over Freeman because I think he is more NFL ready. Wilder is a big back at six-foot-two who can get tough runs inside and push the pile. Wilder ran for 635 yards in 2012, while averaging 5.8 yards per carry. The 226lb back also showed solid hands with 19 receptions for 141 yards.