Farrell Rookie 15: Nos. 10-12
Previous: Nos 13-15
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The skinny: No. 12 overall, the No. 2 running back and the No. 2 recruit from Alabama in 2012, Yeldon caused recruiting stress among both Auburn and Alabama fans as he originally committed to the Tigers before flipping to the Crimson Tide. Selected with the No. 36 overall pick in the second round by Jacksonville, Yeldon has shown glimpses of what made him one of the better running backs in the country in Tuscaloosa. Yeldon has given Blake Bortles a much needed threat on offense, rushing for 406 yards and one touchdown and grabbing 16 receptions for 82 yards.
Farrell's take: Yeldon and Todd Gurley, a four-star in the same class (although I kick myself for not making him a five), were very similar backs and are both off to great starts in the NFL. Both were upright guys, very athletic and had breakaway speed. Yeldon's speed didn't quite translate to college the same way as Gurley's did, but it's not like he was light years behind. Now he's showing that cutting ability and evasiveness, even as an upright guy, and the ability to gain extra yards after contact. He's a slasher, always has been, and he could be even better with a better offensive line.
10
LB
Oxford, Ala. | 2012, Four-star
The skinny: Alexander was the No. 20 outside linebacker and the No. 11 recruit from Louisiana in 2012. Grabbing Alexander, who chose the Tigers over both Auburn and the Crimson Tide, out of Alabama was a big recruiting win for LSU, Selected with the 124th pick in the fourth round by Tampa Bay, Alexander has been one of the more pleasant rookie surprises thus far this season. Totaling 49 tackles, two interceptions, one sack, one forced fumble and seven passes defended, Alexander earned the starting middle linebacker spot for the Bucs and has not disappointed.
Farrell's take: Alexander was a guy with very impressive film from a young age but always left you wanting a bit more when you saw him in person. He was one of the first big-name kids to collect numerous offers by the end of his freshman year, a trend that is common now, and he was broad-shouldered and had long arms which allowed him to excel in coverage. We had him outside our Rivals250 so he's produced a bit more than expected and is already off to a great start in his NFL career.
Mike Farrell
National Recruiting Director
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