"Scouting Week 0 NFL Prospects: Could SMU Have the Next Brock Purdy?"

Soccer is making a comeback with Week 0 and the main event for NFL talent scouts brings us to Ireland, where Florida State is offering prospects a chance to shine in an ACC showdown with Georgia Tech.

Here are five players competing on opening weekend who have been given a \"draftable\" grade for the 2024 season.

RB Jamal Haynes, Georgia Tech (RS JR): Haynes\' performance on Saturday against a defense with speed all around could give us a glimpse into his potential for the NFL draft. He gets his toughness from his mother, Annette Johnson, who has a background in the Army and was also the first running back in the family. Johnson played for the semi-pro football team, the Atlanta Xplosion, in the Independent Women\'s Football League. At Georgia Tech, Haynes spent two seasons as a return specialist and receiver before being moved to the lead running back role. He has the ability to line up anywhere in the formation for the Yellow Jackets. Already known for his all-purpose yardage in the ACC, keep an eye on him as a breakout candidate on the national level.

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LB Patrick Payton, Florida State (RS JR): Since being named the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022, Payton has been a target for opponents. While teams may be able to slow him down, it will be difficult to stop him. At 6-5, 256 pounds, Payton is a natural athlete with great football instincts. As an edge defender, he brings versatility to the table (with 10 pass breakups in 2023), lining up inside on occasion and showing incredible versatility. A \"see-ball, get-ball\" type of player with impressive speed, he recorded 14.5 tackles for loss and 7.0 sacks in 2023.

QB Preston Stone, SMU (JR): Stone was a standout high school player in Texas, throwing for over 13,000 yards and rushing for over 2,000 yards. He led Dallas Parish Episcopal to back-to-back state titles and had offers from Alabama and Georgia Tech before ultimately choosing to stay close to home and help SMU regain its status as a respected team. This season, the Mustangs will face tougher competition in the ACC. Stone will be tested by the depth and talent of the league, but his strong arm, quick release, and ability to process the game make him a potential pro prospect. His height (listed at 6-1) may be a concern, but he has a similar physical profile to current 49ers starter Brock Purdy (6-0 5/8, 212 pounds at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine).

CB Azareye\'h Thomas, Florida State (JR): Standing at 6-2 and weighing just under 200 pounds, Thomas fits the NFL prototype for a cornerback. His 2024 season will be a crucial one as he looks to solidify his draft stock after showing flashes of dominant and physical coverage skills in a rotational role in 2022 and 2023. Thomas has experience playing inside in dime and nickel CB roles, and his background as a running back and wide receiver in high school showcases his versatility and athleticism.

QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State (RS SR): Uiagalelei has a powerful arm and can throw the ball with the best of them. His size (6-4, 246 pounds) and ability to make deep throws with precision make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams. However, scouts will be looking for consistency and the ability to find secondary and tertiary options when his primary receiver is covered.