The notebook that ran in today’s edition of the Daily News covers some of Cassius Marsh’s value as an NFL prospect, whether it be at defensive end, linebacker or even tight end. ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay gave the UCLA senior a fourth- or fifth-round draft grade. Here’s what he said about some other Bruins:
Linebacker Anthony Barr
“He’s not as talented as (South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon) Clowney. He’s not as big, and he’s probably just a notch below in terms of the explosive athleticism. But I think Barr is still a very, very talented player who’s only played the defensive side for two years. Who continues to get better and better in terms of his play, how he’s using his hands, how he’s getting off blocks. I think when it’s all said and done, he’s going to wind up being a top-five pick.
“I think he fits perfectly in the 3-4 as an outside linebacker, but there’s a chance there’s a 4-3 team would take him and just continue to get him bigger and stronger, to put his hand in the dirt and rush off the edge from the defensive end position. The bottom line is he’s a really, really good player … To me, he’s one of the safest picks in the draft. … I love the way he plays the game and what he brings. Very few guys, when you talk to scouts and coaches, do you get the rave reviews like Barr does in terms of his passion and work ethic.”
Quarterback Brett Hundley
“I’m assuming and hoping that Brett Hundley from UCLA winds up going back to school, and that (Ohio State quarterback) Braxton Miller, same thing. Both of those guys need to go back to school. They’re not ready for the NFL. they both have great natural physical tools, but they’re just not developed. I think the process would eat them up. If I were advising them, they both should go back to school. …
“It’s not a knock on (Hundley). I just think he’s close, but he’s not there yet. Another year with game experience with an offensive line that’ll be better, a running game that’s more consistent, I think it’ll really help to highlight what he does well. And I think he can improve in terms of his decision-making and consistency.”
Receiver Shaq Evans
“(He’s) had some big moments this year. He has kind of a running back build at 6-1, 207. Not elite speed, but he’s a guy that’s a little deceptive and has gotten down the field and provided some big plays. I think he’s strong after the catch as well.”
McShay also gave both Evans and senior linebacker Jordan Zumwalt a “day three” grade. He did not have a strong opinion either way on junior Xavier Su’a-Filo, having not yet examined film of the second-team AP All-American. McShay said he usually does not study offensive guards until they officially declare.