Kansas State usually flies under the radar when it comes to NFL Draft prospects.
The latest two Draftees were the most recent examples. Center Sam Hecht and safety VJ Payne were both selected, but far later than many anticipated. ESPN is among those that believe they are far greater than where they were selected, deeming both of them as "Draft steals" in their latest article.
41. Sam Hecht, Carolina Panthers (Round 5 - Pick 144)
Overall ranking: No. 89
COLLEGE STATS: No sacks allowed in last two seasons
Hecht was projected to be a potential Day 2 pick, with many experts and analysts hyping him as the best center in the Draft. The Panthers took a huge step last season, and they want to continue in that direction. Hecht will be utilized as a pass protector for quarterback Bryce Young, who has similar qualities to Avery Johnson.
The article wrote:
"Hecht was ranked as my top center in the class and had a Round 3 grade. The Panthers stole him 55 spots later than his ranking and could slide him into the starting lineup tomorrow. Hecht is a mauler and an expert at pulling and trapping thanks to his quickness and agility. The offensive line in Carolina could feature two rookie starters, but that's how you win in the NFL if you're paying a quarterback top-tier money. Picking Hecht and Freeling gives Bryce Young more protection and gives Carolina more data as it decides whether to give Young a lucrative, long-term extension."
90. VJ Payne, New York Jets (Round 7 - Pick 228)
Overall ranking: No. 136
COLLEGE STATS: 196 TOT TKLS, 13 PD, 10.5 TFL, 4 INT
Payne was always notched as a Day 3 pick, but was anticipated to be in the fourth or fifth round. He will join a safety group featuring Minkah Fitzpatrick and Dean Clark; he's projected to get some reps as the third man up.
The article wrote:
"Payne was one of the biggest value plays in the draft, with the Jets getting a 92-pick benefit with this selection. A hard-hitting safety with 4.40 speed, he'll have to excel on special teams first, but there might be room in this secondary for a player with his size (6-3, 206 pounds), speed, and traits. Minkah Fitzpatrick and Malachi Moore are locked up long term, but Andre Cisco and Dane Belton are on one-year deals, opening the door for Payne in 2027."
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