The 2016 NFL draft begins tonight. But it's never too early to look ahead to the 2017 NFL draft, right? We don't think so. Here are the top 10 Pac-12 prospects who'll be eligible to be called at next year's event, listed in alphabetical order.
Zach Banner, offensive lineman, USC: Los Angeles will get to watch a couple of giants play offensive tackle next season. Banner is 6-foot-9, 360 pounds, while UCLA's Conor McDermott -- also strongly considered for this list -- also is 6-foot-9. But Banner's extra 50 pounds of strength earn him the nod here; his combination of size and athleticism make him a bona fide pro prospect.
Budda Baker, free safety, Washington: At 5-foot-10, Baker certainly isn't considered big for his position, but he's lightning fast and owns the defensive instincts that NFL teams salivate over. The Washington secondary is stocked with future professional talent.
Luke Falk, quarterback, Washington State: Many may discount Falk because of the "system quarterback" stereotype attached to anyone who racks up gaudy numbers in the Air Raid, but Falk has a legitimate skill set. For one, he's more than comfortable operating under center.
Royce Freeman, running back, Oregon: Let's start with this: 230 pounders aren't supposed to be so fast. Freeman defies that expectation. He's physically built to withstand the punishment of pro football, and his athleticism also is up to par.
Adoree’ Jackson, wide receiver/cornerback, USC: Explosive and versatile, Jackson's value at the next level lies in his potential as a Swiss Army knife. Jackson is very skilled at cornerback, but his track star speed will give him looks at returner in the NFL.
Sidney Jones, cornerback, Washington: Baker's co-star in the Huskies secondary posted some of the most impressive defensive statistics in the Pac-12 last year: 14 pass breakups (tops in the conference), four interceptions and three forced fumbles. At 6 feet, his size and skill set translate to the next level.
Lowell Lotulelei, defensive lineman, Utah: Like his older brother Star, Lowell Lotulelei is a force to be reckoned with on the interior. At 6-foot-2, 310 pounds, he's got the fire-hydrant build that NFL teams covet, and he can occupy double teams on the interior.
Christian McCaffrey, running back, Stanford: Our Bill Barnwell said this during the Rose Bowl: "Already terrified to see how NFL offensive coordinators will manage to get the least out of Christian McCaffrey." He's pessimistic, yes, but here's the larger point: The most versatile weapon in college football will have plenty to offer at the next level.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, wide receiver, USC: After a very productive 2015 (89 catches, 1,454 yards, 10 touchdowns), Smith-Schuster can polish his craft for one more season before he's sure to enjoy plenty of NFL attention. He's explosive, and he's certainly strong -- as evidenced by his statement-making stiff-arm skills.
Eddie Vanderdoes, defensive lineman, UCLA: When discussing versatile Pac-12 defensive linemen next season, Vanderdoes and Stanford's Solomon Thomas (who narrowly missed the cut here) are the two names to keep an eye on. Vanderdoes might have been a high pick in this year's draft had he not suffered a season-ending knee injury last season.