
Tony Pauline is a Senior NFL Analyst at EssentiallySports, bringing over two decades of trusted expertise in draft evaluation and league scouting. Recognized as one of the most reliable voices in NFL Draft analysis, Tony has contributed to major outlets including Sports Illustrated, USA Today, PhiladelphiaEagles.com, and NewYorkGiants.com, while also serving as a longtime draft analyst for SNY TV since 2006. Tony is known for his precise scouting reports, accurate projections, and deep network of league contacts, making his annual draft coverage a staple for fans and insiders. His insight is also featured on the Giants Huddle podcast on Giants.com, where he breaks down draft classes and league trends with authoritative clarity. A graduate of St. John’s University with a degree in Athletic Administration, Tony pairs his academic grounding with decades of field experience to deliver comprehensive, respected evaluations of NFL prospects and team-building strategy.
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Heisman Trophy Prediction: Ranking Finalists Ft. Fernando Mendoza & Julian Sayin
We're just days away from the Heisman ceremony in New York. Here are our predictions for the final list.

2026 NFL Draft Defensive Back Rankings: Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Beats LSU’s Mansoor Delane for the Top Spot
As we come close to the 2026 NFL Draft, here is our ranking of the top defensive backs who will be heading to the draft next year.

Biletnikoff Award 2025: Jeremiah Smith and B1G Rival Go Down the Wire
The Biletnikoff Award showdown comes down to Jeremiah Smith and a conference rival in a surprisingly close race.

2026 NFL Draft Linebacker Rankings: Ohio State Duo Arvell Reese & Sonny Styles Lead
As we come close to the 2026 NFL Draft, here is our ranking for the top linebackers heading to the draft next year.

2026 NFL Draft Edge/Pass Rusher Rankings: Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. Narrowly Tops Texas Tech’s David Bailey at No. 1
As we come close to the 2026 NFL Draft, here is our ranking for pass rushers, including Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. and Texas Tech’s David Bailey.

2026 NFL Draft Defensive Line Rankings: Auburn’s Keldric Faulk & Clemson’s Peter Woods Lead the Pack
As we come close to the 2026 NFL Draft, here is our ranking for defensive line, including Auburn’s Keldric Faulk & Clemson’s Peter Woods.

5 Key Takeaways From SEC Championship Game as Kalen DeBoer Fuels Critics
Kalen DeBoer and Alabama got found out against Georgia in the SEC Championship game. Here are the key takeaways.

5 Takeaways From B1G Championship Game as Fernando Mendoza Seals Heisman Bid
The Big Ten Championship game saw Indiana end Ohio State's dominance (for now), and their QB1 might have sealed the Heisman honor.

2026 NFL Draft OL Rankings: Left Tackle Class Lacks a True No. 1 as Prospects Disappoint
As we come close to the 2026 NFL Draft, here is our ranking for top offensive tackles who will be heading to the draft next year.

2026 NFL Draft QB Rankings: Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Takes Top Spot, Oregon’s Dante Moore Drops to 3rd
Take a round-up of EssentiallySports' 2026 NFL Draft updates, where Tony Pauline takes you through rankings for the draftable QB prospects.

Heisman Race: B10 Game to Decide Julian Sayin vs Fernando Mendoza Winner
At the end of regular season, the Heisman race between Julian Sayin and Fernando Mendoza will come down to their December 6 matchup.

Final Risers/Sliders After CFB Week 14: Max Llewellyn Falls as Akheem Mesidor Rises up in Rankings
Week 14 of college football saw changes in the future prospects of several key players looking to go pro next year.


