The Hawkeyes have had players selected during the second day of the past two drafts, including a pair of second-rounders last April. If they are to continue that streak next year, the team’s top underclassmen must enter the draft.

I’ve had Anthony Nelson ranked highly on my board since his sophomore season. He is a big, sometimes-dominant lineman who eats opponents alive and disrupts the action. Nelson lines up at end in the Hawkeyes four-man line but will eventually move into tackle or play end in a three-man line.

Some believe tight end Noah Fant could be a first-round selection, but I disagree with that opinion. 

Fant is a terrific pass catcher with natural hands, but he lacks true downfield speed. While he gives effort blocking, he really must improve his playing strength. In many ways, Fant reminds me of Ian Thomas, who was selected by the Panthers in the 2018 fourth round.

I’m very high on Brandon Snyder compared to those in the scouting community. He has terrific size and though he’s not the fastest, Snyder has a complete game as a run defender or covering the pass.