BYU's Matt Reynolds projected as an NFL first-rounder in 2011

Apparently it’s not too early to start projecting next April’s NFL draft.

ESPN analyst Todd McShay has rolled out his 2011 mock draft and McShay has BYU left tackle Matt Reynolds going No. 20 to the Philadelphia Eagles. That’s operating under the assumption that Reynolds leaves school one year early. Reynolds, who has started every game the past two years, is heading into his junior season this fall.

Regardless, that’s high praise for Reynolds, to be regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the nation. Reynolds anchors a Cougar O-line that returns four starters in 2010 — which is great news for an offense that is breaking in a new starting quarterback.

By the way, BYU has not had a player selected in the first round of the NFL draft since 2000, when linebacker Rob Morris was picked No. 28 overall by the Indianapolis Colts.