Fact or Fiction: NFL Draft Edition (James Pearce, Abdul Carter, Ty Robinson)

Originally posted on Mike Farrell Sports
By Mike Farrell | Last updated Feb 28, 2025 8:48 AM ET

By Mike Farrell

In today’s Fact or Fiction, NFL Draft edition, I look at three big recent topics in college football and decide whether the statement is indeed FACT or if it’s FICTION.

1. James Pearce Jr. bolted into the top 10.

Farrell’s take: FICTION

Pearce Jr. had a great workout and sub 4.5 time and he’s an elite pass rusher but I’m not sure he’s in the top 10 yet. This draft isn’t top heavy and will be based as much on positional need as any other, but there are at least seven guys who are locks for the top 10 leaving little room. There won’t be a run on QBs like last year so that helps but I have Pearce Jr. in the 15-25 range right now despite eye popping numbers.

2. Abdul Carter will go No. 1 overall.

Farrell’s take: FICTION

A QB will land No. 1. The Tennessee Titans aren’t in love with any of the QBs but someone will trade up and make a mistake on Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders that high. Carter is an elite talent and will land top five but there is too much to be gained by trading out and the Titans will do just that.

Dec 21, 2024; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter (11) reacts after sacking Southern Methodist Mustangs quarterback Kevin Jennings (7) during the third quarter in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Beaver Stadium. © Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images

3. Ty Robinson will be a second round steal.

Farrell’s take: FACT

The Nebraska DL reminds me of Braden Fiske from last year, a high energy guy with a non stop motor. But while Fiske landed in round one, I think Robinson is a round two value out of Nebraska and will be a steal. He won’t have the immediate impact Fiske had on his team but his long term value is excellent. Guys who will run through a wall and have versatility in run stopping and pass rush last a long time.

This article first appeared on Mike Farrell Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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