NFL Draft buzz never ceases and, with an eye toward the 2018 edition, much of the discussion has centered around an interesting and controversial quarterback class. Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson has been a lightning rod from a scouting perspective and, in addition, Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen has felt the burden of being dubbed as a high-end prospect without the production to back up the hype.
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Perhaps the most intriguing player, though, is USC quarterback Sam Darnold, who was tabbed as the likely No. 1 pick after leading USC to a torrid streak of success at the end of the 2016 season. This season hasn't been quite as flawless as expected, though, and one report indicates that Darnold is "unlikely to leave" the Trojans for the NFL Draft as a result.
Darnold remains incredibly talented and intriguing as a prospect but his numbers have been relatively underwhelming and the youngster has seemingly developed a penchant for turning the ball over at inopportune times. Darnold has uncorked 10 interceptions (against just 17 touchdowns) so far this year and, while he hasn't been as bad as Allen (for instance), the notion that he is a runaway No. 1 pick seems to be cooling.
Much can change between now and when Darnold would have to make his decision but the early returns seem to be leading toward a 2018 season with him at the helm for USC instead of an NFL franchise.