KICKING IT OLD SCHOOL

If you check out my most recent mock draft (the pre-combine version), you’ll see that I officially have a bet on EDGE Abdul Carter (Penn State) to go No. 1 overall (+220; FanDuel).

I wish I’d had the vision to bet him when he was +800 or longer, but oh well.

The more I dig into this year’s prospects, the more I realize what an old-school hand-in-the-dirt draft class this is.

Lots of teams picking in the top 10—including the Titans at No. 1—need a QB, but there isn’t one in this class that’s close to a generational talent.

The only potential once-in-a-decade prospects this year are Carter and WR/CB Travis Hunter (Colorado).

Given Hunter’s positional uncertainty—as well as Carter’s young age (21 years old), strong pedigree (unanimous All-American), and elite production (12 sacks and a nation-leading 24 tackles for loss as a junior)—I think the edge rusher should be the frontrunner to go No. 1.

In their most recent mocks—both just released this week—Daniel Jeremiah and Todd McShay have Carter at No. 1.

And in my opinion, most sharp mockers have pivoted to that position. Those who haven’t I imagine will eventually.

A lot can change between now and the NFL Draft, especially with the Combine coming up, but right now Carter No. 1 is a position I increasingly like.

For my lifetime, I’m 484-424 (+102.6 units) betting on the draft. As the NFL draft prop market heats up, I’ll put all my bets in our free Fantasy Life Bet Tracker. It might be worth checking out.