2024 NFL Draft Team Preview: Utah Utes

After finishing last season 10-3 and defeating USC in the PAC 12 playoffs, the hopes are high for the Utah Utes. While they lost a few key pieces to the NFL Draft last season, they return many of their core pieces to continue hopes of a playoff push.

Coming in as the 14th-ranked team in the AP Top-25 poll, they’ll be tested every week, facing off against some of the toughest teams in the country. This will give us tremendous looks at each of the 2024 NFL Draft prospects on the team. Here’s a look at those players for the 2024 NFL Draft.

5. #5 CB Zemaiah Vaughn

Vaughn has remarkable coverage skills in both man-to-man and zone situations. His ball awareness is impressive, translating to effective tracking of passes and consistent contesting of catches. Additionally, his agile footwork helps his coverage ability by allowing him to stay in step with receivers, enhancing his one-on-one abilities.

Vaughn is a reliable tackler, using solid technique and physicality to limit extra yards. His adaptability is evident through his versatility in defending various assignments from outside to slot receivers. Vaughn could be more physical against larger opponents, refine his recovery speed off the line, and maintain consistency in both run and pass situations to improve his NFL Draft stock for the upcoming year.

4. #7 QB Cameron Rising

Rising, a dual-threat quarterback for the Utah Utes, possesses impressive arm strength and accuracy for a variety of throws. His pocket composure enables him to navigate pressure, read defenses, and make smart decisions. Rising’s strong decision-making minimizes turnovers and sustains drives. His mobility adds versatility, allowing him to escape the pocket and extend plays.

Furthermore, Rising’s strengths lie in his arm talent, pocket presence, and leadership. However, he must be more consistent and improve his accuracy and progression timing. Despite potential areas for improvement, Rising’s mobility, composure under pressure, and arm strength make him a valuable asset and quarterback to keep an eye on for the NFL Draft.

3. #80 TE Brant Kuithe

Kuithe possesses exceptional athleticism and versatility. His speed, agility, and explosiveness create matchup challenges, allowing him to excel in gaining separation and producing big plays. Kuithe’s flexibility to line up in various positions keeps defenses guessing, while his polished route-running and quick direction changes make him a reliable target across different routes. After catching the ball, his dynamic playmaking and elusiveness turn routine receptions into substantial yardage.

Kuithe is not only a receiving threat but also contributes as a willing blocker, improving both the rushing attack and pass protection. His potential for further impact hinges on maintaining consistency, refining his blocking technique, and expanding his route repertoire. Additionally, his exceptional athleticism and versatility make him a vital aspect of the Utah Utes’ offensive strategy, with the capacity to leave a mark at both collegiate and higher levels as he continues to develop.

2. #8 S Cole Bishop

Bishop, a versatile defensive back for the Utah Utes, is recognized for his physicality and size, which enable effective disruption of receivers and press coverage. His adaptability to both safety and cornerback roles sweetens his NFL Draft stock. Bishop’s reliable tackling technique and proficient ball skills, including interception timing, contribute to preventing yards after contact and creating turnovers. His football IQ and quick reactions are evident in his ability to read plays and anticipate throws. Refining his man-to-man coverage, particularly against faster receivers, and improving his recovery speed when challenged off the line will boost his NFL Draft stock. If he can become a more consistent defender, he’ll likely be a highly-coveted defender.

1. #3 RB Ja’Quinden Jackson

Jackson boasts an impressive combination of size, power, and versatility. His substantial size makes him a tough presence, capable of breaking tackles and gaining extra yardage. He maintains speed and acceleration, allowing him to exploit gaps in the defense. Jackson’s adaptability shines through his capability to excel in various roles – from short-yardage situations to receiving out of the backfield. His running style reflects intelligent vision and patience, as he reads blocks effectively and capitalizes on developing holes. His pass protection skills, driven by his size and willingness to engage defenders, offer additional value in passing scenarios.

Jackson can improve his NFL Draft stock by refining his ball security, enhancing his route running, and increasing acceleration through contact. Overall, he’s an intriguing running back prospect with his size and speed combination, and with a strong season, he could shoot up NFL Draft boards.

Honorable Mention

#2 RB Micah Bernard
#87 TE Thomas Yassmin
#78 OT Sataoa Laumea
#51 iOL Keaton Bills
#58 iDL Junior Tafuna
#21 LB Karene Reid
#1 CB Miles Battle

Utah Ute’s 2023 Football Schedule

Prediction: 8-4

DATE	OPPONENT
Thu, Aug 31	vsFlorida
Sat, Sep 9	@Baylor
Sat, Sep 16	vsWeber State
Sat, Sep 23	vsUCLA
Fri, Sep 29	@ Oregon State
Sat, Oct 14	vsCalifornia
Sat, Oct 21	@ USC
Sat, Oct 28	vs Oregon
Sat, Nov 4	vsArizona State
Sat, Nov 11	@Washington
Sat, Nov 18	@Arizona
Sat, Nov 25	vsColorado