Six 2017 Senior Bowl prospects for the Minnesota Vikings to watch

2 of 7

Dec 3, 2016; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers offensive lineman Forrest Lamp (76) celebrates his teams victory following the CUSA championship game against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Western Kentucky won 58-44. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

One of the biggest risers of the early draft season has been Western Kentucky left tackle Forrest Lamp. Scouts question if he can stay at tackle, but many believe he’s best suited as a guard in the NFL.

After his stellar performance against the dominant Alabama Crimson Tide defensive line, surrendering only one QB pressure. This was the performance that ignited the Lamp hype-train as he caught the eyes of the draft media.

Already receiving Zach Martin comparisons from Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller and NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, Lamp has a lot hype to live up to in Mobile.

Just got this text from a scouting friend:

"Lamp is like Zack Martin. Wait and see next week."
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) January 17, 2017

Being the lead advocate of the “#iLoveLamp” hashtag, the Western Kentucky standout will have a similar draft process as Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Ali Marpet. Both were relatively unknowns entering their final collegiate seasons.

Marpet’s rise to fame was his impressive performance during the 2015 Senior Bowl practices, resulting in becoming a second-round selection.

Lamp has an opportunity to become a first-round selection if he’s able to match the hype received by many notable draft experts.

NFL Comparison: Ali Marpet

Projected Draft Range: Late First-to-Early Second-Round

Home/Minnesota Vikings News