The Premium Prospect Board is a look at the members of the Class of 2015 who offer the most immediate impact and early value potential to the college football teams they are committed to or are considering.
While the PPB will continue to evolve throughout the recruiting process, it has had a change to one big prospect. ESPN 300 No. 1 Josh Sweat is off the board after suffering a season-ending injury on Sept. 19. While Sweat still projects to be an elite college star, suffering a dislocated knee and the recovery that comes with it will hinder his progression and, potentially, his immediate impact at the next level.
Criteria for prospects are based on:
Overall value at that specific position
Best available at that position
Specific value at that position for committed team or final-interest schools
Readiness in terms of physical attributes and mental makeup
Readiness in terms of refined skill set and technique
College-impact-ready talent
Under-the-radar talent who could have an immediate impact
1
Byron Cowart
Undeclared
DE
Seffner, Florida/Armwood
ESPN 300: 2
Previous rank: 1
Analysis: Cowart has started the 2014 season off in a strong way after he turned the spring and summer combine/camp period into his own personal highlight reel. He has been a menace in the backfield as his team has allowed 20 total points through their first four games, including two shutouts. Looking at his disruptive run-stopping and pass-rush skills and overall physical tools, which are highly advanced, he could challenge for an every-down role as a college freshman. We see him more than just a designated pass-rusher. If he is used as a package player, he could be deployed much in the same way Carl Lawson was for Auburn in 2013.
