Four Bearcats Make ESPN's 'Best at Everything' List

CINCINNATI — ESPN's Matt Bowen revealed his annual "best at everything" list, and four Bearcats made the cut. Things start with QB Desmond Ridder earning the "best footwork" distinction.

"A pace-and-touch thrower who can generate velocity when needed, Ridder has the poise and composure of a pro quarterback," Bowen wrote. "And the footwork pops on the tape. It's clinic-worthy, as he shows the detail of a well-schooled passer when it comes to his lower-body mechanics."

Ridder is the consensus 37th-ranked player in the draft and the fourth-ranked QB. He is projected to go to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 20 (23% of mock drafts in the past week).

Next, WR Alec Pierce popped up with the "best red zone" ability.

"Pierce caught six of his eight touchdowns this past season in the red area of the field," Bowen explained. "He's a boundary target to the backside of 3x1 sets in a pro system. With a 6-foot-3 frame and plenty of play strength, Pierce can win isolation matchups in scoring position. Throw the fade balls or cater to his foot quickness to uncover against press coverage on slant routes."

Pierce is the consensus 75th-ranked player in the draft and the 14th-ranked wide receiver. He is a projected third-round pick.

In a pick that surprises no one, Ahmad Gardner earned "best press coverage" ability.

"Gardner has the 6-foot-3 frame, 33½-inch arms and swagger to contribute immediately as a boundary corner with lock-down traits," Bowen said. "He will challenge opposing wide receivers, and he has the 4.41 speed to stay in phase on crossers. Gardner is an ideal fit for today's NFL defenses and can match to the backside receiver in 3x1 sets. He allowed just 60 yards -- and zero touchdowns -- as the primary defender in 2021."

Gardner is the consensus sixth-best player in the draft and top cornerback. He is projected to come off the board at No. 7 to the New York Giants (26% of mock drafts in past week).

Finally, Bryan Cook popped up on the list with the "best hitter in the secondary" distinction.

"Cook reminds me of Bills safety Jordan Poyer," Bowen declared. "At 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, he will physically strike though ball carriers or receivers on contact. You have to keep your head on a swivel when he is on the field. He made 80 tackles in 2021."

Cook is the consensus 96th-ranked player in the draft and the seventh-best safety. He is a projected third-round pick.

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