The NFL combine always feels like the launch of the new season, the draft is around the corner and then it’s a sprint to gameday. Before too long we will be right back in the thick of things. So why not take a minute and look at the players sure to be catching our eye this time next year. If you are a campus to canton, devy, or dynasty fantasy football league player you need to be looking to the future.

This three-article series is exactly what you need to stay prepared and a few steps ahead of the competition. I am releasing a two-round mock draft for each of the upcoming classes. The format is what I believe to be industry standard for deeper leagues: superflex and tight end premium. Feel free to argue with me on any of these, and let me know what players I am too low or high on Twitter @stayfunlako. Be sure to listen to the College to Campus podcast where Travis May and I break down this list and so much more.  

1.01 – Caleb Williams, QB USC

At this time last year Travis and I were waxing eloquently on how Caleb Williams just completed one of the best Freshman seasons of all time. Williams followed that up with a Heisman winning campaign. I am not sure if there is a safer pick at this point. The stats that Williams is putting up are ridiculous, 52 total TD and only five interceptions. While his rushing numbers took a bit of a dip, it was less of a skills issue and more of a scheme issue. 

1.02 – Drake Maye, QB North Carolina 

It is with great pleasure that I rank Drake Maye this high. Maye’s redshirt freshman year was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the nickname DrakeMayezing on the podcast. In 14 games he threw for over 4,300 yards and rushed for 698 more yards with seven rushing TDs and 38 through the air. Keep in mind Maye was able to put up these crazy numbers despite Josh Downs being the only elite wideout on the team and only playing in 11 games.  

1.03 – TreVeyon Henderson, RB Ohio State

After two seasons it truly is a mixed bag for this former five-star RB. TreVeyon Henderson had an electric freshman campaign, but this past season was riddled with injury, and his production suffered. I am not concerned. Henderson has proven that he has the tools and body to succeed as an every-down back in the NFL, so while his receiving profile took a hit with only 0.5 catches per game, we know he possesses that skill set. I fully expect a productive junior campaign with over 1500 scrimmage yards and nearly 20 TDs, earning himself first round draft capital.

1.04 – Raheim Sanders, RB Arkansas

There was not a ton of hype around Raheim Rocket Sanders after his freshman year, but that is quickly changing. After posting 1700 scrimmage yards and 12 TD, while averaging 2.15 receptions a game, people are taking notice. At 6 feet 2 inches and 225 pounds, his speed is impressive. Here you see the burst that he has. Do not be surprised when Sanders is the second RB taken in next year’s NFL draft.  

Arkansas RB Raheim Sanders had his best game of the season this week vs Ole Miss with 24 carries for 232 yards and 3 scores. Also caught 5 balls for 29 yards. He’s simply a beast. In case you missed his performance. Enjoy! pic.twitter.com/DK4lkD45JX

— Brandon Lejeune (@DevyDeepDive) November 21, 2022