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Southeast Spotlight: Three-stars that could develop into NFL Draft picks

Dozens of former three-star prospects heard their names called during last week's NFL Draft. Who might be some of the next prospects to outplay their high school ranking? Rivals national recruiting analyst Sam Spiegelman looks at five candidates from the Southeast.

THIS SERIES: Midwest three-stars that could develop into NFL Draft picks

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Anderson is a hybrid defender that straddles the fence between linebacker and safety. In today's NFL, he could play either or both positions and also see snaps in a nickel or star role. Anderson brings speed, instincts, coverage ability and physical prowess all to the table. He can fill a number of roles for prospective defensive coordinators depending on scheme and specific packages.

Clemson is trending with the touted safety who will come off the board on May 16.

Burgess is one of the most sought-after signal callers in the 2026 class, a multi-sport athlete that lifted Loganville (Ga.) Grayson to a state title last December. The three-star prospect has continued to take strides polishing his game. His background excelling in other sports gives us even more reason to believe his stock will continue to soar.

Auburn and North Carolina are leading the way in this one.

Cornerback is routinely a need for NFL franchises. A premium position, NFL cornerbacks need top-end speed to garner looks, and Dyer has it. The one-time South Carolina verbal tested well at 6-foot and 190 pounds at UA Next in Atlanta earlier this off-season and brings both size and athleticism with a ton of physicality to the position at that.

Georgia, Penn State and Ohio State are all in the mix for Dyer moving forward.

Smith is a massive offensive line prospect measuring in at 6-foot-5 and north of 300 pounds. The Mississippi prospect has been recruited to play offensive tackle where his power and length are major factors in his game. Should Smith develop other aspects of his game, NFL scouts will be intrigued by the mauling play style and size he brings up front.

Clemson, USC and Ole Miss are all in the mix for Smith.

Williams is a hybrid defensive back committed out of Georgia that the Arizona State coaching staff is incredibly high on. The three-star prospect is quick, explosive, sticky in coverage and a physical presence from the secondary that's willing to step up and make tackles in space.

NFL teams expend draft picks to find starters and reserves alike capable to taking pivotal snaps at nickel. Williams checks off several of these boxes.