Here are the top five special-teams players in the draft (with projected round):
Justin Gilbert, KR, 6-0, 202 pounds, Oklahoma State (first): Gilbert set the Big 12 record with six career kickoff returns for touchdowns. In 2013 against Kansas, Gilbert returned the opening kickoff for a 100-yard score. Three of his other kickoff returns for touchdowns went for 89 yards or longer.
Bruce Ellington, KR, 5-9, 197, South Carolina (fourth): Ellington played basketball and football for the Gamecocks over the past three seasons. He was the primary kick returner in 2011 and 2012 and still handled punts after he emerged as the Gamecocks' top wide receiver 2013.
Dri Archer, KR, 5-8, 173, Kent State (fifth): Archer did it all as a running back/wide receiver/returner. His 40-yard dash time of 4.26 seconds is second only to Chris Johnson since the combine started recording times in 1999. NFL.com combine profile comment: "Can make an immediate impact in the return game and add value as a multipurpose threat. Long-term durability is greatest concern given tiny frame."
De'Anthony Thomas*, KR, 5-9, 174, Oregon (fifth): Thomas handled kickoffs and punts for the Ducks and had three career returns for touchdowns in three seasons. NFL.com combine comment: "A deluxe, specialty back and potential slot receiver with game-breaking return ability, Thomas can be an explosive mismatch weapon in multiple facets of the game."
Chris Boswell, K, 6-2, 185, Rice (sixth): In four seasons at Rice, Boswell was 51-for-65 on field-goal attempts, with a long of 57. Boswell also handled kickoffs and forced 121 touchbacks on 224 tries. NFL.com combine profile comment: "NFL starter-caliber leg strength and kickoff potential."
*Underclassman
Need area for Falcons? No. The Falcons are set at kicker (Matt Bryant) and punter (Matt Bosher) and added return-specialist Devin Hester in free agency.
About the Author
