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Draft-Eligible in 2018

Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State: Running backs who can create for themselves are special. Saquon Barkley has showed that capacity, and his versatility is attractive. Barkley ran for 1,496 yards and 18 touchdowns as a sophomore and added 28 receptions for 402 yards and four more scores.

Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville: No matter if he pursues the NFL in 2018 or 2019, Lamar Jackson deserves more attention. Listed at 6'3" and 211 pounds, the 2016 Heisman Trophy winner has room to grow with his elite tools. Jackson improved significantly as a passer last season, so continued development with an already strong arm will put him squarely in the conversation.

Arden Key, LB, LSU: Fair or not, Arden Key's brief personal leave will lead to predraft headlines that question his dedication. But when he's on the field, Key doesn't leave many wondering about his ability. The edge-rusher has collected 17 sacks in just two years.

Draft-Eligible in 2019

Oluwole Betiku Jr., DE, USC: The college football world hasn't yet seen Oluwole Betiku Jr.'s ceiling, and he's a work in progress anyway. A 6'3", 250-pound defensive end, Betiku has only played organized football for three years. While he would likely benefit from four years in college, Betiku should make an impact in 2017 before stepping into a large role. He's worth monitoring.

Brian Burns, DE, Florida State: DeMarcus Walker racked up 16 sacks last season. That kind of production is supposed to be hard to replace, but the Seminoles have Brian Burns ready to take over. As a freshman, he collected 9.5 sacks—including 4.5 over the last four games. What can he do as a full-time starter?

Shea Patterson, QB, Ole Miss: We didn't anticipate seeing Shea Patterson in 2016, but Chad Kelly's season-ending injury pushed the prize recruit into action. Patterson showed off his dual-threat skills, throwing for 880 yards and six touchdowns and running for 169 yards. Two years with a loaded receiving corps at his disposal will show whether Patterson deserves consideration. It's probably a yes.

Draft-Eligible in 2020

Najee Harris, RB, Alabama: The No. 1 overall recruit in 2017, Najee Harris heads to the Crimson Tide with sky-high expectations. Fortunately for NFL teams, a deep backfield should limit the number of hits Harris absorbs until at least 2018. If his production matches his potential, Harris may have a top suitor ready to acquire his skills.

Walker Little, OT, Stanford: Franchise left tackles don't always change a franchise—take Joe Thomas and the Cleveland Browns, for example—but they certainly are valuable. Walker Little will likely be a three-year contributor for the Cardinal, who have produced seven offensive line picks over the last six drafts.

Jaelan Phillips, DE, UCLA: Edge-rushers have become the second most important players on NFL rosters. It's why guys like Von Miller, J.J. Watt and Justin Houston have signed such massive contracts. Jaelan Phillips could follow in the path of Myles Garrett, whom the Browns snagged No. 1 overall in 2017.