You're probably still celebrating the return of the postseason player rankings. Well, you'll get a second helping today (and the rest of the week). As a reminder, these rankings are based solely on performance during the 2013 season.
Up next is a guy who put up some big numbers before opting to skip his final season in college for the NFL draft.
No. 24: Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana
Previous ranking: Not ranked
Making the case for Latimer: The wide receiver position received a much-needed upgrade around the Big Ten in 2013, as players like Latimer showcased big-play ability that the league has sorely lacked. Latimer always made acrobatic catches, but he also consistently produced for a dangerous Indiana offense with five 100-yard receiving performances and nine games with five or more receptions.
One of four 1,000-yard receivers in the Big Ten, Latimer averaged 15.2 yards per reception with nine catches of 30 yards or longer and five of 40 yards or longer. He finished third in the league in both receptions (6 rpg) and receiving yards (91.3 ypg), and tied for fourth in receiving touchdowns (9). Latimer earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from the media as well as several outlets, including ESPN.com.
Latimer had big games against good teams like Missouri (8 catches, 136 yards) and Bowling Green (6 catches, 137 yards), proved to be an effective special teams player and worked well with two quarterbacks. Although Latimer's decision to skip his final season at IU surprised some, especially with such a strong draft class at receiver, he certainly has the ability to play at the next level.
No. 25: Illinois QB Nathan Scheelhaase
