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The Farrell Five: The Most Underrated Projected First-Rounders

Ladd McConkey, Terrion Arnold, and the other players who will perform beyond their draft position

Mike Farrell| April 25, 2024 (Updated: July 24, 2025)
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Dec 30
Dec 30

Overrated? Underrated? That’s the NFL Draft every year. These are my top five underrated projected first-rounders.


1. CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama

— I love his attitude and leadership, and he’s going to be a great teammate. Oh yeah, he’s fast and has elite instincts, too.

Nov 4, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) breaks up a pass intended for LSU Tigers wide receiver Malik Nabers (8) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama defeated LSU 42-28.

2. WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia

— He’s going to carve out a 10-year NFL career as a steady WR2 for some smart team.

Georgia wide receiver Ladd McConkey (84) celebrate with his teammates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of a NCAA college football game against Ole Miss in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

3. DL Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan

— Watch the film. He is not only an effort kid but an elite technician as well.

Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Western Michigan defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland (DL41) works out during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.

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4. CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa

— He can play corner, safety, or wherever you want to line him up.

Sep 16, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) returns a punt against the Western Michigan Broncos during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium.

5. DT Johnny Newton, Illinois

— I think he could be the best interior lineman in the draft, as he’s a natural QB chaser.

Oct 21, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton (4) tackles Wisconsin Badgers running back Braelon Allen (0) during the first half at Memorial Stadium.
Category: Draft, NewsTag: Cooper DeJean, Jer'Zhan Newton, Ladd McConkey, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL Draft, Terrion Arnold
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