Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin (This content was originally published in our newsletter)

Moreland’s draft prospects – Reports have Moreland getting drafted anywhere from the third round all the way to the seventh round. We expect him to be drafted at some point over the next two days, but it’s hard to know exactly when he’ll go. If I had to guess, I’d say Moreland gets selected in rounds 3-5, and I have a feeling he may get drafted in top 100. 

Will he make history? – Only two JMU players — Charles Haley (96th overall) and Chuck Keaton (97th overall) — have ever been selected in the top 100 of the NFL Draft. No Dukes have been selected in the third round or better. Moreland has a chance to become the highest-drafted Duke in history. 

Potential landing spots – We’re speculating a bit, but keep an eye on the 49ers, Colts and Lions as potential destinations. The Giants, who have Everett Withers leading their cornerback group, are another team that makes sense. They also drafted Daniel Jones at No. 6, though, so I have no idea what they’re going to do moving forward. 

Why is Moreland such a coveted FCS prospect? If you watch JMU football regularly, you know why. Moreland makes plays. While he’s given up his fair share of deep balls and pass interference penalties, Moreland has game-changing speed and great ball skills. He’s a playmaker with a ton of upside, especially as he gets stronger and adds weight to his frame. He’ll be a steal if he slides past the fourth round.