Hostile
03-26-2010, 10:27 PM
Dallas Cowboys 2010 Draft Picks
:star: 1st round...#24 from Patriots
DEZ BRYANT WR Oklahoma State
Overvie
Bryant's junior season was rocky, to say the least, as he missed the final 10 games after being suspended for lying to NCAA investigators about his dealings with NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Not surprisingly, this event caused him to leave the college game a year early.
If his first three games of the 2009 season were any indication, Bryant probably would have entered the draft early anyway; he had 17 receptions for 323 yards and four scores as a receiver to go along with an 82-yard punt return for touchdown. Had he continued to play, Bryant might have reached his 2008 consensus All-American totals of 87 catches for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns and a 17.9-yard average on punt returns along with a pair of scores.
As a true freshman, Bryant proved himself worthy of his high school All-American and top 100 recruit accolades by displaying great athleticism and good production (43-622-6), ending the year with a six-catch, 117-yard, two-score effort in an Insight bowl win over Indiana.
The suspension will have little effect on Bryant's stock heading into the draft. Teams will question him about his choices, but they will likely overlook the mistakes when they pop in the film. Scouts will also question his top-end speed, but they also know that plenty of big-bodied receivers have succeeded in the NFL without running 4.4 40s. Bryant's hands, strength and surprising elusiveness should keep him in the top half of the first round.
Analysis
Release: Inconsistent getting out of stance quickly, especially if not the first option on the play, but has enough strength and wiggle at the line to beat press coverage. Not likely to run past NFL corners, but can lull defenders to sleep at times and then use his size to gain separation. Lacks elite top-end speed or a breakaway gear, but finds a burst when needed.
Hands: Makes exceptional catches in traffic, extending his arms and snatching the ball from the air with his large hands. Adjusts to wide, high or low throws well. Superior vertical and hand strength to win the jump ball. Double-catches and allows the ball into his chest too often, which may be an issue playing with NFL quarterbacks with strong arms.
Route running: Capable of sinking his hips and running crisp crossing and out-routes. Head fake gains him some room down the seam, where he is a regular threat. Uses his hands and long arms to separate on comebacks as well as down the sideline. Gets lazy and rounds off out-routes when defenders give cushion. Gets a lot of opportunities to run after the catch on quick step-back throws. Works to come back for his quarterback at times, but needs to improve his consistency there.
After the catch: Better elusiveness, vision and balance than expected given his size. Has a burst after tucking away the ball and will lower his shoulder and carry defenders for a few yards. Uses his well-defined upper body to shield defenders on slants and stiff-arm to keep corners at bay. Not always as physical a player as you'd expect for his size. Hears footsteps over the middle and dances instead of running over smaller defenders in space. Good elusiveness and vision as a college punt returner, but lacks the quickness to avoid NFL special teams coverage units. Must secure the ball when running in space as he holds it out away from his frame.
Blocking: Can be dominant when the effort is there, using his strength to latch onto smaller defenders. Often out-quicked on the edge, missing blocks by not moving his feet. Needs to move his feet after initial contact to sustain. Inconsistent finding a block downfield if the back breaks into the open. Doesn't search out blocks when the play is run away from him.
Intangibles: No major character concerns, but questions abound about his consistency, maturity and work ethic. Suspension for lying to NCAA should not hurt his stock if he takes responsibility for his actions.
NFL Comparison: Roy Williams, Cowboys
2009 Season
Bryant has sat out the last five games for No. 18 Oklahoma State (6-2, 3-1 Big 12) after the school ruled him ineligible for lying to an NCAA investigator looking into Bryant's offseason meeting with former NFL player Deion Sanders. The NCAA decided last week that Bryant should be suspended until next September, and OSU appealed to the NCAA's Student-Athlete Reinstatement Committee. That group announced Thursday that it had rejected Bryant's appeal. Bryant caught 87 passes for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns last season while also scoring twice on punt returns.
2008 Season
All-American, first team All-Big 12 as a receiver and returner, Special Teams Player of the Year. Biletnikoff Award Finalist. Accumulated a dizzying array of statistics with big play after big play … Ended the season as the Big 12 statistical champion in receiving yards per game (113.9), scoring (9.69 ppg), touchdown receptions (19), punt returns (17.9 per try), and punt return touchdowns (two) … His sophomore season included OSU's second best mark in receiving yards (1,480), a new school record with 19 touchdown receptions, the second best scoring season in OSU history with 128 points (trailing only Barry Sanders' NCAA record of 234 points set in 1988), the second best single-season total in catches (87), and a new Holiday Bowl record with 167 receiving yards in three quarters of play due to injury … First time he touched the ball in 2008 (and on his first career return) resulted in a 42-yard punt return at Washington State … Put on a display against Houston with 311 all-purpose yards … Had 236 receiving yards against Houston for the second best total in OSU history and the second best receiving game in the country in 2008 … Also had a 71-yard punt return for a score against Houston and was named Walter Camp national player of the week as well as Big 12 offensive player of the week for his efforts … . Was the Big 12 special teams player of the week after returning a punt 78 yards for a score against Texas A&M … Had 11 catches for 212 yards with two scores against Baylor for the 10th best game in the country in 2008 … Had a routine six catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns against Troy and five catches for 106 yards with three TDs against Texas A&M … Put on another display with nine catches for 171 yards with a career-best four touchdowns against Iowa State … Included in that total was an 80-yard touchdown - the sixth longest pass play in OSU history … . Had a 47-yard reception at No. 2 Texas Tech as part of an 86-yard night … Had seven catches for 90 yards at Washington State, seven receptions for 47 yards at Missouri and six catches for 74 yards at Texas … Caught four passes for 82 yards with a 29-yard TD grab at Colorado … Against Oklahoma, he scored 14 points (two TD grabs and a two-point conversion) on six catches covering 91 yards … Had TD catches in eight of the 13 games … His Holiday Bowl record in yardage (167) came on 13 catches and included a 33-yard touchdown … His season included 22 receptions that have been at least 20 yards in length.
2007 Season
Finished second on the team with 43 catches covering 622 receiving yards in 12 games (did not play against Florida Atlantic) … Was second on the team with six TD receptions and averaged 14.5 yards per catch … Exploded against Kansas, establishing an OSU freshman record with 155 receiving yards … Outjumped a Kansas defender to bring in an 18-yard touchdown pass for the Cowboys' first score against the undefeated Jayhawks … Caught eight passes against KU, including a 39-yarder … Ended the season with an outstanding bowl performance … Had nine catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns in the win over Indiana … Had TD grabs covering 24 and 11 yards and set up another score with a 30-yard reception … Posted solid numbers against Texas with four catches for 79 yards … First career reception was an eight-yard hookup with Bobby Reid in the season opener at Georgia … Recorded three receptions for 67 yards (22.3 yards per catch), including a 27-yard reception, at Troy … Credited with five catches for 51 yards, highlighted by a five-yard touchdown pass from Zac Robinson, for the first score of his career in the win over Texas Tech … Made a pair of catches for 20 yards in the Cowboys' 39-3 win over Sam Houston State … Caught a pass for seven yards at Texas A&M … Hauled in two touchdown passes in the Cowboys' dramatic 41-39 win over No. 25 Kansas State … Made three catches for 37 yards to go with his two scores against the Wildcats … Out-jumped a KSU defender in the end zone for the first of his two touchdowns, then roughhoused his way through a series of Wildcat defenders on a 9-yard screen pass for his second TD grab … Led OSU with five catches for 69 yards at OU.
Off-Field Issues
2009: Suspended for the final 10 games of the season by the NCAA for lying about his relationship with NFL Hall of Fame CB Deion Sanders.
High School
A SuperPrep and Parade All-American … Listed by SuperPrep as the country's No. 7 receiving prospect … A consensus national top 100 prospect … Ranked as America's 29th best player by ESPN.com … Played on a state championship team at Lufkin … Participated in the Offense-Defense All-American Game … Scout.com ranked Bryant as the No. 13 receiver in the country and the 22nd best prospect in Texas … The Rivals service ranked him the No. 54 player in the country, the nation's ninth-best receiving prospect and as the No. 12 player in Texas … PrepStar placed him among America's top 100 players and as the nation's ninth-best receiving prospect … The Sporting News considered him the No. 54 prospect in the southwest … Dallas Morning News listed him as the No. 75 player in America … Member of the Texas Football magazine Super Team first-team … All-state selection … Senior season stats included 53 receptions for 1,207 yards with 21 touchdowns … Caught 48 passes for 1,025 yards as a junior with 16 touchdowns … Scored 41 touchdowns in 31 career games … A first-team Super Teamer by Dave Campbell … Just OSU's fourth Parade All-American since 1985.
Personal
Had his choice of schools, including LSU, Nebraska, OU, Arkansas, Iowa and Texas A&M, among others … Four-year member of the track team.
:star: 1st round...#27 traded to patriots...
:star: 2nd round...#55 from eagles Sean Lee ILB Penn State...
Stars
Strengths:
Good athlete --- Outstanding instincts and awareness --- Active with a non-stop motor --- Excellent Range --- Does a terrific job in pursuit --- A very reliable tackler --- Experienced --- Good strength --- Uses hands well --- Understands angles and leverage --- Smart with a top football IQ --- Super Competitive --- Versatile --- Hard Worker --- Team Leader.
Weaknesses:
Does not have the ideal size that you look for --- Is not very explosive and lacks a burst --- Tight hips and is not real fluid in coverage --- Isn't stout at the point of attack --- Struggles to take on and disengage from blockers --- Not much of a pass rusher or blitzer --- Durability Concerns.
Notes:
Was a three-year starter for the Nittany Lions --- Named 2nd Team All-Big Ten in 2007 and 2009 --- Served as a team captain --- Brother, Conor, was a kicker at Pittsburgh (2005-08) --- Missed the entire 2008 season after tearing the ACL in his right knee --- Missed a few games in 2009 with a sprained left knee --- Also excelled in the classroom and was active in the community while in Happy Valley --- The next product of "Linebacker U", following in the footsteps of guys like Jack Ham, Shane Conlan, Andre Collins, LaVar Arrington, Paul Posluszny and Dan Connor just to name a few --- Could project to either inside or outside linebacker at the next level --- Not the most physically gifted prospect but makes up for those deficiencies with top-notch intangibles --- A fantastic football player who will likely be an NFL starter for a long time.
:star: 2nd round...#59 Traded to eagles ...
:star: 3rd round...#90...Traded to Patriots
:star: 4th round...#119...From Patriots Traded to Dolphins
:star: 4th round...#125 traded to Eagles...
:star: 4th round...#126 From Dolphins...Akwasi Owusu-Ansah CB Indiana PA
Overview
After two years playing behind veteran corners for IUP, Owusu-Ansah came into his own as a junior in 2008 and grabbed the spotlight as a senior. He should follow in the footsteps of former Division II standout cornerbacks Ricardo Colclough, Drayton Florence and Danieal Manning as a top-100 pick.
With eight interceptions and 10 pass breakups in 2008, teams stayed away from Owusu-Ansah last fall. His 27 tackles, two interceptions and four pass breakups were good enough for first-team All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference-West and second-team AP Little All-American honors.
He was also all-conference as a return specialist. Owusu-Ansah returned three punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns in '09. In the previous two seasons, he had averaged 10.7 yards on 48 punt returns and 24.8 yards on 33 kickoff returns -- returning one punt and one kickoff for TDs in the 2007 season.
Scouts note his size, speed and hands on the corner and noticed his ability to play through a shoulder injury this fall (which kept him out of postseason all-star games) and his versatility. Owusu-Ansah lined up at safety quite often to take advantage of his centerfielder skills and could be used there in the NFL. Whether teams view him as a cornerback or safety, they'll value his skills. Defensive backs with size, speed, hands and return skills aren't easy to find.
Analysis
Read & React: Reads his receiver carefully on the outside and is quick to jump routes once a hint is given. Reads the quarterback well and has the speed to the ball in the deep half as a safety. Baits the quarterback into thinking the seam route is open.
Man Coverage: Has prototypical size to be a press corner. Plays with aggression at the line but usually lined up 10 yards off, apparently per coaches' instructions. Shows good flexibility and very good feet in his pedal, staying low and transitioning well. Typically takes up inside position instead of backpedaling, waiting for the receiver to make his move before jumping the route; gets turned around if receiver breaks inside. Often forces quarterback to look in another direction.
Zone Coverage: Could flourish in a zone system as a free safety or corner. His size and speed give him good range, and he is strong enough to snatch the ball from the grasp of receivers. Fluid moving from the hash to the sideline. Excellent hands for the interception and is always a threat to take the ball to the end zone. Must prove he has the discipline to come off one receiver to cover another coming into his area.
Closing/Recovery: Closes on the ball in the air quickly. Gives too much cushion, but his size, closing speed and long arms allow him to stop plays or immediately bring down the ballcarrier. Jumps slant routes when playing off-man. Has the speed and change-of-direction agility to recover on stop-and-go routes. Plants and drives out of his backpedal effectively.
Run Support: Used primarily as a cover corner playing off the line, Owusu-Ansah did not often come up in run support. He will come off his man to chase down ballcarriers, though, taking good angles to prevent big plays. Has the size to be effective crashing down from the outside and generally disengages from receiver blocks, but physicality is still a question mark.
Tackling: Has the size and strength to limit yards after the catch. Has long, well-built arms to wrap up ballcarriers. Averaged roughly on tackle per game -- the ball didn't come his way often and he was not involved in many run plays. Heads toward the pile but often runs around it instead of entering the fracas. Needs to prove himself a secure tackler before teams consider moving him to safety.
Intangibles: Confident and emotional on the field. Highly successful at a lower level of competition, but must acclimate quickly to the routes run by receivers from major programs. He missed an opportunity to prove himself against the big boys in all-star games because of a shoulder injury. His return skills were formidable at the D-II level, but should translate; he hits a hole quickly, shows good vision, runs through arm tackles and has the speed to beat the angle. Displays patience to let blocks develop on interception and kickoff returns.
NFL Comparison: Charles Tillman, Chicago Bears
Injury Report:
2009: Missed postseason all-star games with a shoulder injury he played through most of the season.
2009 Season
In 2009 Owusu-Ansah ranked 10th in the nation in kickoff return average at 29.7 and 15th in punt return average at 12.5 and scored five touchdowns. He had punt returns for touchdowns versus California (53 yards), Edinboro (70) and Lock Haven (55) and kickoff returns for scores versus Southern Connecticut State (89) and Edinboro (78).
In his career, Owusu-Ansah scored a total of nine touchdowns, including four punt returns, three kickoff returns and one interception and one fumble return. He holds school records for punt return yards (788), punt return average (11.4) and kickoff return average (1,282).
On defense, he had two interceptions in 2009 and a total of 10 in his career. He made eight interceptions as a junior in 2008, including seven over the final four games of the season and three versus Gannon, the most by an IUP player since 1991.
2008 Season
Owusu-Ansah (Columbus, Ohio/Whetstone) intercepted eight passes this season and led the PSAC while ranking second nationally with an average of 0.80 per game. He fell one shy of the school record for most picks in a season and had seven in the final four games of the year, including three versus Gannon and two each versus Mercyhurst and Kutztown. No IUP player had a three interception game since Reece Brown did so in a playoff victory over Virginia Union in 1991. Owusu-Ansah added a 74-yard interception return for a touchdown in the opener at C.W. Post. Adding in his 10 pass breakups, Owusu-Ansah defended 18 opponent aerials on the year, the fourth-highest mark in the nation.
:star: 5th round... traded to Denver in Montrae Holland deal.
:star: 6th round...#179 From Dolphins... Sam Young OT Notre Dame
Overview
Great things were expected from the Parade All-American from Florida when he came to South Bend, but being the first true freshman ever to start on Notre Dame's offensive line opening weekend was truly a fine accomplishment (first-year players were eligible to play immediately starting in 1972).
All Young has done since is start every game for the Irish. He lined up at right tackle for the first 16 games, then moved to left tackle for 10 contests in 2007 before moving back to the right side for the last two seasons. In 2009, Young helped the Irish become one of the most prolific offenses in the country, rolling up more than 450 yards per game.
Though not considered one of the more athletic tackles in the 2010 draft, Young's size, strength and pedigree are likely to land him a spot in the middle rounds and give him the potential to have a long NFL career.
Analysis
Pass blocking: Height, arm length and strong punch make it easy for him to engulf smaller ends. Keeps his feet moving after kick slide, taking a sharp angle back to protect the pocket. Stays with his man after initial contact to prevent secondary rush. Fair anchor, keeping his weight forward and hands working to maintain distance with defender. Cut blocks more quickly and efficiently than you would expect at his height, both on quick throws and when trying to protect the quarterback. A bit slow in his lateral movement, and may struggle to mirror against NFL speed on the edge. Must improve his awareness of late blitzers instead of focusing on inside double when it is unnecessary.
Run blocking: Good drive blocker despite his height, getting low and pushing back the line. Strong enough to turn his man inside or outside. Leans forward too far on the move, which causes him to lose his balance and struggle to do more than get a hand on his target - but most times that's all he needs to do at his size against linebackers and safeties.
Pulling/trapping: Lacks the footwork to pull or trap effectively. Inconsistent at sustaining on the second level, but usually gets a hand on a linebacker and safety when on the move. Has a tough time adjusting to fast-closing defenders.
Initial Quickness: Average quickness into kick slide and set in pass protection for a big right tackle. Drives off the ball well but is a bit slow and can be out-quicked by ends and tackles off the snap.
Downfield: Height and average footwork make him lumber in space, but gives good effort to hit multiple targets. Will join a play 10-15 yards downfield to push the pile forward. Should dominate smaller players in space, but his lack of body control allows them to avoid or get off blocks too consistently.
Intangibles: Experienced, durable, intelligent lineman. Plays with great effort and a nasty attitude, and is a vocal leader on and off the field.
NFL Comparison: Jeremy Trueblood, Buccaneers
Career Notes
Notre Dame's top returning offensive lineman enters his final season with the possibility of setting the school record for most starts in a career … has started all 38 games of his career and is the only Notre Dame offensive lineman to have started every game since his freshman year … became the first Irish offensive lineman to make his debut as a freshman in the season opener since freshmen regained eligibility in 1972 … veteran leader of the offense has more starts under his belt than any other player on the roster … started 28 games at right tackle and 10 games at left tackle in his career … started the first 15 games at Notre Dame at right tackle and started all 13 games in 2008 on the right side as well … one of four returning starters on the offensive line in 2009 … selected to Phil Steele's preseason All-America second team in 2009 … ranked by Steele as the fourth-best offensive tackle in the country … Lindy's tabbed him the seventh-best offensive tackle in 2009 preseason … key reason why Steele ranked Notre Dame's offensive line as the fifth-best in the country.
2009 Season
Young was a staple on Notre Dame's offensive line since he stepped foot on campus. His 50 career starts are the most in school history and he is the only Notre Dame offensive lineman to start every game since his freshman year. The Coral Springs, Fla. native allowed just two sacks all season and helped the Irish finish the season ranked ninth in the country in total offense, averaging 451.75 yards per game.
2008 Season
Started all 13 games for the Irish on the offensive line (has started 38 straight games in his career) … blocked for a rushing attack that amassed 122 yards on the ground and did not allow a sack in season opening victory over San Diego State … protected QB Jimmy Clausen by not allowing a sack in consecutive weeks vs. Michigan … spearheaded the Irish run game which gained 201 yards vs. Purdue … opened up holes all day long as the Irish piled up 459 total yards in the contest against Washington … helped the Irish offense total 478 yards in Hawai'I Bowl game victory against Hawai'i.
2007 Season
Started all 12 games for the Irish to push his consecutive games started streak to 25 … opened the season at right tackle and moved to left tackle after the third game and started there the final 10 contests … helped block for James Aldridge as he gained over 100 rushing yards vs. Michigan State and Navy … opened up holes for Robert Hughes as he rushed for over 100 yards in the final two contests vs. Duke and at Stanford … logged 310:08 of playing time and made 36 special teams appearances.
2006 Season
Started all 13 games at right tackle for Notre Dame … was the first Irish player to start the season opener on the offensive line since freshmen regained their eligibility in 1972 … named a first-team freshman All-American by The Sporting News and Rivals.com … helped open holes all season for Darius Walker as he eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards and provided protection for Brady Quinn as he surpassed 3,000 passing yards again … logged 292:17 of playing time.
High School
Graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. … first-team offensive lineman on USA Today prep All-America squad … rated top lineman and one of 16 candidates for Parade All-America High School Player of the Year award … one of 18 linemen on Parade prep all-star team … rated 10th on list of top 100 prep players nationally by USA Today and Chicago Sun-Times … rated ninth on list of top 150 players nationally by CollegeFootballNews.com … rated 23rd on list of top 100 players in the nation by Dallas Morning News … Gatorade Player of the Year for 2005 in Florida … first-team All-America offensive lineman by CSTV … rated fourth overall as one of six offensive linemen on Atlanta Journal-Constitution National Top 25 team … rated fourth player overall (of 20) on 2005 Best of the South team by Tampa Tribune … selected for U.S. Army All-American Bowl prep all-star game … selected for CaliFlorida Bowl all-star game … a first-team offensive lineman on Florida Class 5A all-state team as junior in 2004 and again as senior in 2005. Named South Florida Sun-Sentinel Class 6A-5A-4A player of the year … helped St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., gain 4,606 total offense yards as well as 3,040 regular-season rushing yards during '05 season, as squad finished 10th on USA Today Super 25 list of top prep teams nationally … didn't permit a sack either of his junior or senior seasons while helping team to Florida Class 5A state semifinal each of those years … rated 14th on preseason list of top players in the country (and second among offensive linemen) by The Sporting News … one of 50 players and eight offensive linemen on preseason prep All-America team by Street & Smith's … one of 19 offensive linemen on '05 national preseason top 100 by CBS SportsLine.com … high school teammate of fellow '06 Irish freshman Dan Wenger … high school coach was George Smith … enrolled in First Year of Studies.
Personal
Born June 24, 1987.
:star: 6th round...#196... Jamar Wall CB Texas Tech
Overview
One of the more underrated players at his position, Wall was named second-team all-conference after he made 58 tackles, intercepted two passes, broke up 15 others, and forced two fumbles.
Wall had very similar numbers with five interceptions and six pass breakups as a sophomore. As a true freshman he contributed primarily on special teams, but stepped in because of injuries to deflect two passes.
Wall is a good athlete who had a storied high school career where he ran for over 2,000 yards in both his junior and senior seasons. Though a bit shorter than scouts prefer, Wall's stocky build, athleticism, aggressive play and sure tackling make him a potential starting zone corner in the NFL and worthwhile Saturday draft pick.
Analysis
Read & React: Reads the body language and routes of receivers. Gets too aggressive, biting on pump fakes and double moves, but rarely is fooled twice. Attacks running plays to his side. Gets to other receivers when a teammate loses track of them.
Man Coverage: Coverage skills made opponents wary of throwing at Wall. Usually plays off in press-bail coverage, but he has the long arms and strong arms to be physical with receivers coming off the line. Good backpedal -- stays low and quick. Capable of sticking to his man in coverage on any route. Will be out-muscled downfield by larger receivers. Offenses try to take advantage of his lack of height in the red zone, but he has the vertical to compete against taller receivers.
Zone Coverage: Was left on an island in Tech's defense, but displays headiness and good change-of-direction ability to close on underneath routes.
Closing/Recovery: Reacts to the ball in the air, takes the correct angle when attacking the receiver to separate the ball from its target or secure the tackle. Good recovery speed after biting on double moves, but will resort to bumping receivers instead of trusting his speed.
Run Support: Usually positioned off the line, but does not tackle like a converted running back. Closes on the run quickly and wraps up consistently. Uses long arms and strength to stay clear or rip off most receiver blocks, but forces action inside if he can't disengage.
Tackling: Likes to hit, puts ballcarriers on the ground with a strong shoulder. Generally solid tackling in space, does not need to resort to cut tackling to bring down backs or receivers. Misses tackles occasionally when trying to make a hit. Should be an outstanding special teams gunner because of his speed and aggressiveness.
Intangibles: Does not back down from a challenge. Teammates respect his hard work and coaches trust him to be in the right spot and make the big play. Ran for 477 yards on 20 kickoff returns in 2008 and could get a chance there in training camp because of his strong running style.
2009 Season
Wall was selected All-Big 12 Conference Second Team in 2009 as voted on by the Big 12 coaches. Wall, one of the top corners in school history, is tied second in the Big 12 with 13 pass breakups.
2008 Season
All-Big 12 Conference Second Team (Fort Worth Star-Telegram) … three solo tackles in the win over Baylor … 10 tackles and a pass breakup at Oklahoma … three solo tackles against Oklahoma State … had a solo stop against Texas … posted three stops at Kansas … had six tackles and a pass breakup at Texas A&M … made game-clinching interception in overtime to secure win over Nebraska … second pick of the season … had seven solo tackles in the game … five tackles and a pass breakup at Kansas State … four tackles and a pass breakup in UMass win … grabbed first pick of the season against SMU … one of five interceptions on the night … finished the game with three solo tackles and three pass breakups … tied first in the Big 12 with six pass breakups … six tackles, five solo, and a pass breakup at Nevada … led the team with nine tackles, including six solo stops, against Eastern Washington … had a tackle for loss and a pass breakup … also returned a kickoff 43 yards.
2007 Season
All-Big 12 Conference Second Team and honorable mention … Academic All-Big 12 First Team … Played and started in all 13 games … led the team with five interceptions … had four tackles in the bowl win over Virginia … also had a pass breakup … recorded three tackles and two pass breakups in win over Oklahoma … had five solo tackles at Texas and grabbed his fifth interception of the year … three tackles in the win at Baylor … posted six tackles, including five solo, against Colorado … collected fourth interception of the season at Missouri of quarterback Chase Daniel … had an interception and a pass breakup in the win over Texas A&M … six and five tackles, respectively, in the Iowa State and Northwestern State wins … career-high 11 tackles and a pick at Oklahoma State … grabbed first interception of the season at Rice.
2006 Season
Showed tremendous promise seeing playing time during true freshman season … saw most action on special teams … posted a tackle in the bowl win over Minnesota … saw significant playing time in relief of Antonio Huffman at cornerback and appeared as a kickoff returner for the first time this season … brought back one kick for 15 yards and had a pass breakup … at TCU (9/16): finished second on the team with seven total tackles (six solo) … also competes in the long jump.
High School
Plainview High School in Plainview, Texas … Three-Star Recruit (Rivals.com; Scout.com) … No. 29 athlete nationally (Rivals.com) … recruited as a cornerback … Class 4A All-State first team … District 4-4A first team as a running back, defensive back and punter … named to Amarillo Globe-News Golden Spread Team and selected as player of the year … rushed for 2,735 yards and 42 touchdowns during senior season … led Class 4A in rushing yards and scoring … rushed for 406 of 466 total yards in the first half against Hereford during senior season (23.3 yards per carry) … also finished the season with two interceptions and a punt return for a touchdown … earned Class 4A All-State first team honors after rushing for 2,024 yards and 28 touchdowns on 308 attempts as a junior … also caught 10 passes for 113 yards … timed at 4.5 in the forty at the Fort Worth NIKE Training Camp … 38-inch vertical … brother of former Tech hoops standout Koy Smith … also offered by Baylor, Kansas State, Purdue, Wake Forest, SMU, TCU and UTEP … High School Coach: Marty McClintock.
Personal
Jamar Wall … born January 10, 1988, in Lubbock … son of Georgia and Jerry Wall … has an older brother and two older sisters … brother, Koy Smith, was a standout basketball player at Texas Tech … enjoys listening to music and playing all sports.
:star: 7th round...#234... Sean Lissemore DT William & Mary
Overview
At 6-3, 230 pounds, Lissemore turned heads in high school when running sprints for the track team. Five years and 70 pounds later, he's still turning heads with his effort and athleticism. The New Jersey native was a four-year contributor for the Tribe, blasting onto the scene with 33 tackles as a redshirt freshman in 2006. He made 43 tackles, two for loss and a sack in first year as starter in 2007, then stepped it up with 51 tackles, 7.5 for loss and four sacks in 2008 - all with a nagging shoulder injury. A sizzling 4.8 40-yard dash at his spring 2009 pro day opened the eyes of scouts, then his All-American, first-team All-CIAA senior season (66 tackles, 14.5 for loss, 6.5 sacks, two interceptions) locked up his status as a draftable prospect. Lissemore and Adrian Tracy both acquitted themselves well at the Texas vs. Nation All-Star Challenge, and then Lissemore wowed NFL teams again with a 4.81 40 at his pro day. His hustling style and agility should be welcomed on any line in the league, especially by 3-4 teams looking for an Aaron Smith, yeoman-like five-technique.
Analysis
Pass rush: Hustle rusher fights through double teams. Swims over linemen if they lean toward him. Fluid running into the backfield, closes quickly on quarterback for his size. Fair change of direction skills. Gives secondary effort to get to the passer if he holds onto the ball too long. Gets his hands into passing lanes, and has the hands to make interceptions on tipped balls.
Run defense: Plays bigger than his weight indicates, but still can get pushed off the line of scrimmage. Keeps eyes in the backfield on run plays, disengages to grab ballcarriers before they get through the hole. Keeps himself alive by recoiling and spinning off doubles to make plays. Excellent chase down the line and downfield.
Explosion: Explosive off the snap for his size and delivers a strong blow, FCS linemen can't prevent him from getting a push on a pass rush or shooting through gaps to penetrate.
Strength: Has enough upper-body strength to disengage against lower-level linemen, whether standing his ground inside or moving down the line, but will have a more difficult time moving linemen at the next level. Loses the leverage battle against stout linemen when playing with his pads too high. Tackling: Very active tackler for an interior lineman, can drop his hips and break down in space to secure the stop. Gets downfield to help teammates bring down ballcarriers. Closes on the ball behind the line of scrimmage using speed and effort. Does not miss tackles. Intangibles: High-motor player who gives full effort to go along with that elite athleticism. Vocal on the sidelines and locker room, also leads by example. Plays hurt.
2009 Season
Earned All-America honors from College Sporting News and Sports Network Selected to the All-CAA First Team … Played in Texas vs. the Nation All-Star Game … Finished the season with 66 total tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks, two interceptions and four passes defended … TFL total ranked sixth in the league, while sack total ranked eighth … Served as a team captain.
2008 Season
Earned starts in all 11 games at defensive tackle … Totaled 51 stops and ranked second on the team with 7.5 tackles for a loss and 4.0 sacks … Ranked sixth in the CAA in tackles among defensive linemen with 4.6 stops per game … Honored as the W&M QB Club Defensive Player of the Week twice (Towson/Richmond) and as the Special Teams Player of the Week once (New Hampshire) … Recorded a career-high 10 tackles with 1.5 tackles for a loss and a sack in the win at New Hampshire … Matched a career high in tackles at James Madison while also registering a tackle for a loss … Tallied a pair of tackles for a loss and a sack in the victory at Towson … Made eight stops and had a sack in the season finale versus Richmond … Posted a tackle for a loss in the triumph against Northeastern … Earned half sacks in the win against Norfolk State and versus Villanova.
2007 Season
Played through variety of nagging injuries to start 10 of 11 games at defensive tackle … Had 43 tackles on the season … Intercepted a pass against UMass … Second on the team in sacks with two … Registered unassisted sacks against Virginia Tech and Delaware, both for seven-yard losses … Tied for third on team in tackles for losses with four … Racked up seven tackles against VMI … Had multiple tackles in every game played, including five tackles against Virginia Tech … Recorded six stops against Hofstra.
2006 Season
Turned in a solid rookie campaign on the defensive line with 33 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack … Tackles figure ranked third among the team's defensive linemen … Assisted on four stops against VMI … Recorded a solo tackle and added two assist at Massachusetts … Collected five total tackles, including two solos, in the win at Liberty … Made four assisted stops against Villanova … Helped in the upset win at Towson with a solo quarterback sack and four solo tackles in total … Tallied four stops, including three unassisted, at Delaware … Continued the strong finish to the year with a season-high seven tackles, including three solos, against Richmond.
2005 Season
Scout team defensive lineman.
Agility Tests
Combine: Did not receive an invitation.
Pro day: 4.81-second 40-yard dash.
High School
Three-year starter for coach Jim Davidson … Saw action at both guard and tackle on offense and defensive end and linebacker on defense … First team all-league as a linebacker in senior season and All-North Jersey Group 2 … Invited to Governor's Bowl and Bergen All-Star game … Helped team to best record in 20 years and a berth in state playoffs … Also earned honorable mention all-county honors … Accumulated 120 total tackles (74 solo), nine sacks and one interception in senior season … Handled kickoff duties … Four-year letterman and All-League performer in track and field in the 100 and 200 meter … Also competed in the shot put … Three-year letter winner in wrestling, where he was also an all-league performer and state medalist at 215 weight class … Member of Captains for Tomorrows Children and school's jazz band … Received 2004 West Point Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership award … Honor Roll student.
Personal
Son of William and Doretta Lissemore … Enjoys fishing, boating, lifting weights and auto-mechanics … Majoring in kinesiology … Born September 11, 1987 in Teaneck, N.J.
:star: 1st round...#24 from Patriots
DEZ BRYANT WR Oklahoma State
Overvie
Bryant's junior season was rocky, to say the least, as he missed the final 10 games after being suspended for lying to NCAA investigators about his dealings with NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Not surprisingly, this event caused him to leave the college game a year early.
If his first three games of the 2009 season were any indication, Bryant probably would have entered the draft early anyway; he had 17 receptions for 323 yards and four scores as a receiver to go along with an 82-yard punt return for touchdown. Had he continued to play, Bryant might have reached his 2008 consensus All-American totals of 87 catches for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns and a 17.9-yard average on punt returns along with a pair of scores.
As a true freshman, Bryant proved himself worthy of his high school All-American and top 100 recruit accolades by displaying great athleticism and good production (43-622-6), ending the year with a six-catch, 117-yard, two-score effort in an Insight bowl win over Indiana.
The suspension will have little effect on Bryant's stock heading into the draft. Teams will question him about his choices, but they will likely overlook the mistakes when they pop in the film. Scouts will also question his top-end speed, but they also know that plenty of big-bodied receivers have succeeded in the NFL without running 4.4 40s. Bryant's hands, strength and surprising elusiveness should keep him in the top half of the first round.
Analysis
Release: Inconsistent getting out of stance quickly, especially if not the first option on the play, but has enough strength and wiggle at the line to beat press coverage. Not likely to run past NFL corners, but can lull defenders to sleep at times and then use his size to gain separation. Lacks elite top-end speed or a breakaway gear, but finds a burst when needed.
Hands: Makes exceptional catches in traffic, extending his arms and snatching the ball from the air with his large hands. Adjusts to wide, high or low throws well. Superior vertical and hand strength to win the jump ball. Double-catches and allows the ball into his chest too often, which may be an issue playing with NFL quarterbacks with strong arms.
Route running: Capable of sinking his hips and running crisp crossing and out-routes. Head fake gains him some room down the seam, where he is a regular threat. Uses his hands and long arms to separate on comebacks as well as down the sideline. Gets lazy and rounds off out-routes when defenders give cushion. Gets a lot of opportunities to run after the catch on quick step-back throws. Works to come back for his quarterback at times, but needs to improve his consistency there.
After the catch: Better elusiveness, vision and balance than expected given his size. Has a burst after tucking away the ball and will lower his shoulder and carry defenders for a few yards. Uses his well-defined upper body to shield defenders on slants and stiff-arm to keep corners at bay. Not always as physical a player as you'd expect for his size. Hears footsteps over the middle and dances instead of running over smaller defenders in space. Good elusiveness and vision as a college punt returner, but lacks the quickness to avoid NFL special teams coverage units. Must secure the ball when running in space as he holds it out away from his frame.
Blocking: Can be dominant when the effort is there, using his strength to latch onto smaller defenders. Often out-quicked on the edge, missing blocks by not moving his feet. Needs to move his feet after initial contact to sustain. Inconsistent finding a block downfield if the back breaks into the open. Doesn't search out blocks when the play is run away from him.
Intangibles: No major character concerns, but questions abound about his consistency, maturity and work ethic. Suspension for lying to NCAA should not hurt his stock if he takes responsibility for his actions.
NFL Comparison: Roy Williams, Cowboys
2009 Season
Bryant has sat out the last five games for No. 18 Oklahoma State (6-2, 3-1 Big 12) after the school ruled him ineligible for lying to an NCAA investigator looking into Bryant's offseason meeting with former NFL player Deion Sanders. The NCAA decided last week that Bryant should be suspended until next September, and OSU appealed to the NCAA's Student-Athlete Reinstatement Committee. That group announced Thursday that it had rejected Bryant's appeal. Bryant caught 87 passes for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns last season while also scoring twice on punt returns.
2008 Season
All-American, first team All-Big 12 as a receiver and returner, Special Teams Player of the Year. Biletnikoff Award Finalist. Accumulated a dizzying array of statistics with big play after big play … Ended the season as the Big 12 statistical champion in receiving yards per game (113.9), scoring (9.69 ppg), touchdown receptions (19), punt returns (17.9 per try), and punt return touchdowns (two) … His sophomore season included OSU's second best mark in receiving yards (1,480), a new school record with 19 touchdown receptions, the second best scoring season in OSU history with 128 points (trailing only Barry Sanders' NCAA record of 234 points set in 1988), the second best single-season total in catches (87), and a new Holiday Bowl record with 167 receiving yards in three quarters of play due to injury … First time he touched the ball in 2008 (and on his first career return) resulted in a 42-yard punt return at Washington State … Put on a display against Houston with 311 all-purpose yards … Had 236 receiving yards against Houston for the second best total in OSU history and the second best receiving game in the country in 2008 … Also had a 71-yard punt return for a score against Houston and was named Walter Camp national player of the week as well as Big 12 offensive player of the week for his efforts … . Was the Big 12 special teams player of the week after returning a punt 78 yards for a score against Texas A&M … Had 11 catches for 212 yards with two scores against Baylor for the 10th best game in the country in 2008 … Had a routine six catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns against Troy and five catches for 106 yards with three TDs against Texas A&M … Put on another display with nine catches for 171 yards with a career-best four touchdowns against Iowa State … Included in that total was an 80-yard touchdown - the sixth longest pass play in OSU history … . Had a 47-yard reception at No. 2 Texas Tech as part of an 86-yard night … Had seven catches for 90 yards at Washington State, seven receptions for 47 yards at Missouri and six catches for 74 yards at Texas … Caught four passes for 82 yards with a 29-yard TD grab at Colorado … Against Oklahoma, he scored 14 points (two TD grabs and a two-point conversion) on six catches covering 91 yards … Had TD catches in eight of the 13 games … His Holiday Bowl record in yardage (167) came on 13 catches and included a 33-yard touchdown … His season included 22 receptions that have been at least 20 yards in length.
2007 Season
Finished second on the team with 43 catches covering 622 receiving yards in 12 games (did not play against Florida Atlantic) … Was second on the team with six TD receptions and averaged 14.5 yards per catch … Exploded against Kansas, establishing an OSU freshman record with 155 receiving yards … Outjumped a Kansas defender to bring in an 18-yard touchdown pass for the Cowboys' first score against the undefeated Jayhawks … Caught eight passes against KU, including a 39-yarder … Ended the season with an outstanding bowl performance … Had nine catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns in the win over Indiana … Had TD grabs covering 24 and 11 yards and set up another score with a 30-yard reception … Posted solid numbers against Texas with four catches for 79 yards … First career reception was an eight-yard hookup with Bobby Reid in the season opener at Georgia … Recorded three receptions for 67 yards (22.3 yards per catch), including a 27-yard reception, at Troy … Credited with five catches for 51 yards, highlighted by a five-yard touchdown pass from Zac Robinson, for the first score of his career in the win over Texas Tech … Made a pair of catches for 20 yards in the Cowboys' 39-3 win over Sam Houston State … Caught a pass for seven yards at Texas A&M … Hauled in two touchdown passes in the Cowboys' dramatic 41-39 win over No. 25 Kansas State … Made three catches for 37 yards to go with his two scores against the Wildcats … Out-jumped a KSU defender in the end zone for the first of his two touchdowns, then roughhoused his way through a series of Wildcat defenders on a 9-yard screen pass for his second TD grab … Led OSU with five catches for 69 yards at OU.
Off-Field Issues
2009: Suspended for the final 10 games of the season by the NCAA for lying about his relationship with NFL Hall of Fame CB Deion Sanders.
High School
A SuperPrep and Parade All-American … Listed by SuperPrep as the country's No. 7 receiving prospect … A consensus national top 100 prospect … Ranked as America's 29th best player by ESPN.com … Played on a state championship team at Lufkin … Participated in the Offense-Defense All-American Game … Scout.com ranked Bryant as the No. 13 receiver in the country and the 22nd best prospect in Texas … The Rivals service ranked him the No. 54 player in the country, the nation's ninth-best receiving prospect and as the No. 12 player in Texas … PrepStar placed him among America's top 100 players and as the nation's ninth-best receiving prospect … The Sporting News considered him the No. 54 prospect in the southwest … Dallas Morning News listed him as the No. 75 player in America … Member of the Texas Football magazine Super Team first-team … All-state selection … Senior season stats included 53 receptions for 1,207 yards with 21 touchdowns … Caught 48 passes for 1,025 yards as a junior with 16 touchdowns … Scored 41 touchdowns in 31 career games … A first-team Super Teamer by Dave Campbell … Just OSU's fourth Parade All-American since 1985.
Personal
Had his choice of schools, including LSU, Nebraska, OU, Arkansas, Iowa and Texas A&M, among others … Four-year member of the track team.
:star: 1st round...#27 traded to patriots...
:star: 2nd round...#55 from eagles Sean Lee ILB Penn State...
Stars
Strengths:
Good athlete --- Outstanding instincts and awareness --- Active with a non-stop motor --- Excellent Range --- Does a terrific job in pursuit --- A very reliable tackler --- Experienced --- Good strength --- Uses hands well --- Understands angles and leverage --- Smart with a top football IQ --- Super Competitive --- Versatile --- Hard Worker --- Team Leader.
Weaknesses:
Does not have the ideal size that you look for --- Is not very explosive and lacks a burst --- Tight hips and is not real fluid in coverage --- Isn't stout at the point of attack --- Struggles to take on and disengage from blockers --- Not much of a pass rusher or blitzer --- Durability Concerns.
Notes:
Was a three-year starter for the Nittany Lions --- Named 2nd Team All-Big Ten in 2007 and 2009 --- Served as a team captain --- Brother, Conor, was a kicker at Pittsburgh (2005-08) --- Missed the entire 2008 season after tearing the ACL in his right knee --- Missed a few games in 2009 with a sprained left knee --- Also excelled in the classroom and was active in the community while in Happy Valley --- The next product of "Linebacker U", following in the footsteps of guys like Jack Ham, Shane Conlan, Andre Collins, LaVar Arrington, Paul Posluszny and Dan Connor just to name a few --- Could project to either inside or outside linebacker at the next level --- Not the most physically gifted prospect but makes up for those deficiencies with top-notch intangibles --- A fantastic football player who will likely be an NFL starter for a long time.
:star: 2nd round...#59 Traded to eagles ...
:star: 3rd round...#90...Traded to Patriots
:star: 4th round...#119...From Patriots Traded to Dolphins
:star: 4th round...#125 traded to Eagles...
:star: 4th round...#126 From Dolphins...Akwasi Owusu-Ansah CB Indiana PA
Overview
After two years playing behind veteran corners for IUP, Owusu-Ansah came into his own as a junior in 2008 and grabbed the spotlight as a senior. He should follow in the footsteps of former Division II standout cornerbacks Ricardo Colclough, Drayton Florence and Danieal Manning as a top-100 pick.
With eight interceptions and 10 pass breakups in 2008, teams stayed away from Owusu-Ansah last fall. His 27 tackles, two interceptions and four pass breakups were good enough for first-team All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference-West and second-team AP Little All-American honors.
He was also all-conference as a return specialist. Owusu-Ansah returned three punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns in '09. In the previous two seasons, he had averaged 10.7 yards on 48 punt returns and 24.8 yards on 33 kickoff returns -- returning one punt and one kickoff for TDs in the 2007 season.
Scouts note his size, speed and hands on the corner and noticed his ability to play through a shoulder injury this fall (which kept him out of postseason all-star games) and his versatility. Owusu-Ansah lined up at safety quite often to take advantage of his centerfielder skills and could be used there in the NFL. Whether teams view him as a cornerback or safety, they'll value his skills. Defensive backs with size, speed, hands and return skills aren't easy to find.
Analysis
Read & React: Reads his receiver carefully on the outside and is quick to jump routes once a hint is given. Reads the quarterback well and has the speed to the ball in the deep half as a safety. Baits the quarterback into thinking the seam route is open.
Man Coverage: Has prototypical size to be a press corner. Plays with aggression at the line but usually lined up 10 yards off, apparently per coaches' instructions. Shows good flexibility and very good feet in his pedal, staying low and transitioning well. Typically takes up inside position instead of backpedaling, waiting for the receiver to make his move before jumping the route; gets turned around if receiver breaks inside. Often forces quarterback to look in another direction.
Zone Coverage: Could flourish in a zone system as a free safety or corner. His size and speed give him good range, and he is strong enough to snatch the ball from the grasp of receivers. Fluid moving from the hash to the sideline. Excellent hands for the interception and is always a threat to take the ball to the end zone. Must prove he has the discipline to come off one receiver to cover another coming into his area.
Closing/Recovery: Closes on the ball in the air quickly. Gives too much cushion, but his size, closing speed and long arms allow him to stop plays or immediately bring down the ballcarrier. Jumps slant routes when playing off-man. Has the speed and change-of-direction agility to recover on stop-and-go routes. Plants and drives out of his backpedal effectively.
Run Support: Used primarily as a cover corner playing off the line, Owusu-Ansah did not often come up in run support. He will come off his man to chase down ballcarriers, though, taking good angles to prevent big plays. Has the size to be effective crashing down from the outside and generally disengages from receiver blocks, but physicality is still a question mark.
Tackling: Has the size and strength to limit yards after the catch. Has long, well-built arms to wrap up ballcarriers. Averaged roughly on tackle per game -- the ball didn't come his way often and he was not involved in many run plays. Heads toward the pile but often runs around it instead of entering the fracas. Needs to prove himself a secure tackler before teams consider moving him to safety.
Intangibles: Confident and emotional on the field. Highly successful at a lower level of competition, but must acclimate quickly to the routes run by receivers from major programs. He missed an opportunity to prove himself against the big boys in all-star games because of a shoulder injury. His return skills were formidable at the D-II level, but should translate; he hits a hole quickly, shows good vision, runs through arm tackles and has the speed to beat the angle. Displays patience to let blocks develop on interception and kickoff returns.
NFL Comparison: Charles Tillman, Chicago Bears
Injury Report:
2009: Missed postseason all-star games with a shoulder injury he played through most of the season.
2009 Season
In 2009 Owusu-Ansah ranked 10th in the nation in kickoff return average at 29.7 and 15th in punt return average at 12.5 and scored five touchdowns. He had punt returns for touchdowns versus California (53 yards), Edinboro (70) and Lock Haven (55) and kickoff returns for scores versus Southern Connecticut State (89) and Edinboro (78).
In his career, Owusu-Ansah scored a total of nine touchdowns, including four punt returns, three kickoff returns and one interception and one fumble return. He holds school records for punt return yards (788), punt return average (11.4) and kickoff return average (1,282).
On defense, he had two interceptions in 2009 and a total of 10 in his career. He made eight interceptions as a junior in 2008, including seven over the final four games of the season and three versus Gannon, the most by an IUP player since 1991.
2008 Season
Owusu-Ansah (Columbus, Ohio/Whetstone) intercepted eight passes this season and led the PSAC while ranking second nationally with an average of 0.80 per game. He fell one shy of the school record for most picks in a season and had seven in the final four games of the year, including three versus Gannon and two each versus Mercyhurst and Kutztown. No IUP player had a three interception game since Reece Brown did so in a playoff victory over Virginia Union in 1991. Owusu-Ansah added a 74-yard interception return for a touchdown in the opener at C.W. Post. Adding in his 10 pass breakups, Owusu-Ansah defended 18 opponent aerials on the year, the fourth-highest mark in the nation.
:star: 5th round... traded to Denver in Montrae Holland deal.
:star: 6th round...#179 From Dolphins... Sam Young OT Notre Dame
Overview
Great things were expected from the Parade All-American from Florida when he came to South Bend, but being the first true freshman ever to start on Notre Dame's offensive line opening weekend was truly a fine accomplishment (first-year players were eligible to play immediately starting in 1972).
All Young has done since is start every game for the Irish. He lined up at right tackle for the first 16 games, then moved to left tackle for 10 contests in 2007 before moving back to the right side for the last two seasons. In 2009, Young helped the Irish become one of the most prolific offenses in the country, rolling up more than 450 yards per game.
Though not considered one of the more athletic tackles in the 2010 draft, Young's size, strength and pedigree are likely to land him a spot in the middle rounds and give him the potential to have a long NFL career.
Analysis
Pass blocking: Height, arm length and strong punch make it easy for him to engulf smaller ends. Keeps his feet moving after kick slide, taking a sharp angle back to protect the pocket. Stays with his man after initial contact to prevent secondary rush. Fair anchor, keeping his weight forward and hands working to maintain distance with defender. Cut blocks more quickly and efficiently than you would expect at his height, both on quick throws and when trying to protect the quarterback. A bit slow in his lateral movement, and may struggle to mirror against NFL speed on the edge. Must improve his awareness of late blitzers instead of focusing on inside double when it is unnecessary.
Run blocking: Good drive blocker despite his height, getting low and pushing back the line. Strong enough to turn his man inside or outside. Leans forward too far on the move, which causes him to lose his balance and struggle to do more than get a hand on his target - but most times that's all he needs to do at his size against linebackers and safeties.
Pulling/trapping: Lacks the footwork to pull or trap effectively. Inconsistent at sustaining on the second level, but usually gets a hand on a linebacker and safety when on the move. Has a tough time adjusting to fast-closing defenders.
Initial Quickness: Average quickness into kick slide and set in pass protection for a big right tackle. Drives off the ball well but is a bit slow and can be out-quicked by ends and tackles off the snap.
Downfield: Height and average footwork make him lumber in space, but gives good effort to hit multiple targets. Will join a play 10-15 yards downfield to push the pile forward. Should dominate smaller players in space, but his lack of body control allows them to avoid or get off blocks too consistently.
Intangibles: Experienced, durable, intelligent lineman. Plays with great effort and a nasty attitude, and is a vocal leader on and off the field.
NFL Comparison: Jeremy Trueblood, Buccaneers
Career Notes
Notre Dame's top returning offensive lineman enters his final season with the possibility of setting the school record for most starts in a career … has started all 38 games of his career and is the only Notre Dame offensive lineman to have started every game since his freshman year … became the first Irish offensive lineman to make his debut as a freshman in the season opener since freshmen regained eligibility in 1972 … veteran leader of the offense has more starts under his belt than any other player on the roster … started 28 games at right tackle and 10 games at left tackle in his career … started the first 15 games at Notre Dame at right tackle and started all 13 games in 2008 on the right side as well … one of four returning starters on the offensive line in 2009 … selected to Phil Steele's preseason All-America second team in 2009 … ranked by Steele as the fourth-best offensive tackle in the country … Lindy's tabbed him the seventh-best offensive tackle in 2009 preseason … key reason why Steele ranked Notre Dame's offensive line as the fifth-best in the country.
2009 Season
Young was a staple on Notre Dame's offensive line since he stepped foot on campus. His 50 career starts are the most in school history and he is the only Notre Dame offensive lineman to start every game since his freshman year. The Coral Springs, Fla. native allowed just two sacks all season and helped the Irish finish the season ranked ninth in the country in total offense, averaging 451.75 yards per game.
2008 Season
Started all 13 games for the Irish on the offensive line (has started 38 straight games in his career) … blocked for a rushing attack that amassed 122 yards on the ground and did not allow a sack in season opening victory over San Diego State … protected QB Jimmy Clausen by not allowing a sack in consecutive weeks vs. Michigan … spearheaded the Irish run game which gained 201 yards vs. Purdue … opened up holes all day long as the Irish piled up 459 total yards in the contest against Washington … helped the Irish offense total 478 yards in Hawai'I Bowl game victory against Hawai'i.
2007 Season
Started all 12 games for the Irish to push his consecutive games started streak to 25 … opened the season at right tackle and moved to left tackle after the third game and started there the final 10 contests … helped block for James Aldridge as he gained over 100 rushing yards vs. Michigan State and Navy … opened up holes for Robert Hughes as he rushed for over 100 yards in the final two contests vs. Duke and at Stanford … logged 310:08 of playing time and made 36 special teams appearances.
2006 Season
Started all 13 games at right tackle for Notre Dame … was the first Irish player to start the season opener on the offensive line since freshmen regained their eligibility in 1972 … named a first-team freshman All-American by The Sporting News and Rivals.com … helped open holes all season for Darius Walker as he eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards and provided protection for Brady Quinn as he surpassed 3,000 passing yards again … logged 292:17 of playing time.
High School
Graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. … first-team offensive lineman on USA Today prep All-America squad … rated top lineman and one of 16 candidates for Parade All-America High School Player of the Year award … one of 18 linemen on Parade prep all-star team … rated 10th on list of top 100 prep players nationally by USA Today and Chicago Sun-Times … rated ninth on list of top 150 players nationally by CollegeFootballNews.com … rated 23rd on list of top 100 players in the nation by Dallas Morning News … Gatorade Player of the Year for 2005 in Florida … first-team All-America offensive lineman by CSTV … rated fourth overall as one of six offensive linemen on Atlanta Journal-Constitution National Top 25 team … rated fourth player overall (of 20) on 2005 Best of the South team by Tampa Tribune … selected for U.S. Army All-American Bowl prep all-star game … selected for CaliFlorida Bowl all-star game … a first-team offensive lineman on Florida Class 5A all-state team as junior in 2004 and again as senior in 2005. Named South Florida Sun-Sentinel Class 6A-5A-4A player of the year … helped St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., gain 4,606 total offense yards as well as 3,040 regular-season rushing yards during '05 season, as squad finished 10th on USA Today Super 25 list of top prep teams nationally … didn't permit a sack either of his junior or senior seasons while helping team to Florida Class 5A state semifinal each of those years … rated 14th on preseason list of top players in the country (and second among offensive linemen) by The Sporting News … one of 50 players and eight offensive linemen on preseason prep All-America team by Street & Smith's … one of 19 offensive linemen on '05 national preseason top 100 by CBS SportsLine.com … high school teammate of fellow '06 Irish freshman Dan Wenger … high school coach was George Smith … enrolled in First Year of Studies.
Personal
Born June 24, 1987.
:star: 6th round...#196... Jamar Wall CB Texas Tech
Overview
One of the more underrated players at his position, Wall was named second-team all-conference after he made 58 tackles, intercepted two passes, broke up 15 others, and forced two fumbles.
Wall had very similar numbers with five interceptions and six pass breakups as a sophomore. As a true freshman he contributed primarily on special teams, but stepped in because of injuries to deflect two passes.
Wall is a good athlete who had a storied high school career where he ran for over 2,000 yards in both his junior and senior seasons. Though a bit shorter than scouts prefer, Wall's stocky build, athleticism, aggressive play and sure tackling make him a potential starting zone corner in the NFL and worthwhile Saturday draft pick.
Analysis
Read & React: Reads the body language and routes of receivers. Gets too aggressive, biting on pump fakes and double moves, but rarely is fooled twice. Attacks running plays to his side. Gets to other receivers when a teammate loses track of them.
Man Coverage: Coverage skills made opponents wary of throwing at Wall. Usually plays off in press-bail coverage, but he has the long arms and strong arms to be physical with receivers coming off the line. Good backpedal -- stays low and quick. Capable of sticking to his man in coverage on any route. Will be out-muscled downfield by larger receivers. Offenses try to take advantage of his lack of height in the red zone, but he has the vertical to compete against taller receivers.
Zone Coverage: Was left on an island in Tech's defense, but displays headiness and good change-of-direction ability to close on underneath routes.
Closing/Recovery: Reacts to the ball in the air, takes the correct angle when attacking the receiver to separate the ball from its target or secure the tackle. Good recovery speed after biting on double moves, but will resort to bumping receivers instead of trusting his speed.
Run Support: Usually positioned off the line, but does not tackle like a converted running back. Closes on the run quickly and wraps up consistently. Uses long arms and strength to stay clear or rip off most receiver blocks, but forces action inside if he can't disengage.
Tackling: Likes to hit, puts ballcarriers on the ground with a strong shoulder. Generally solid tackling in space, does not need to resort to cut tackling to bring down backs or receivers. Misses tackles occasionally when trying to make a hit. Should be an outstanding special teams gunner because of his speed and aggressiveness.
Intangibles: Does not back down from a challenge. Teammates respect his hard work and coaches trust him to be in the right spot and make the big play. Ran for 477 yards on 20 kickoff returns in 2008 and could get a chance there in training camp because of his strong running style.
2009 Season
Wall was selected All-Big 12 Conference Second Team in 2009 as voted on by the Big 12 coaches. Wall, one of the top corners in school history, is tied second in the Big 12 with 13 pass breakups.
2008 Season
All-Big 12 Conference Second Team (Fort Worth Star-Telegram) … three solo tackles in the win over Baylor … 10 tackles and a pass breakup at Oklahoma … three solo tackles against Oklahoma State … had a solo stop against Texas … posted three stops at Kansas … had six tackles and a pass breakup at Texas A&M … made game-clinching interception in overtime to secure win over Nebraska … second pick of the season … had seven solo tackles in the game … five tackles and a pass breakup at Kansas State … four tackles and a pass breakup in UMass win … grabbed first pick of the season against SMU … one of five interceptions on the night … finished the game with three solo tackles and three pass breakups … tied first in the Big 12 with six pass breakups … six tackles, five solo, and a pass breakup at Nevada … led the team with nine tackles, including six solo stops, against Eastern Washington … had a tackle for loss and a pass breakup … also returned a kickoff 43 yards.
2007 Season
All-Big 12 Conference Second Team and honorable mention … Academic All-Big 12 First Team … Played and started in all 13 games … led the team with five interceptions … had four tackles in the bowl win over Virginia … also had a pass breakup … recorded three tackles and two pass breakups in win over Oklahoma … had five solo tackles at Texas and grabbed his fifth interception of the year … three tackles in the win at Baylor … posted six tackles, including five solo, against Colorado … collected fourth interception of the season at Missouri of quarterback Chase Daniel … had an interception and a pass breakup in the win over Texas A&M … six and five tackles, respectively, in the Iowa State and Northwestern State wins … career-high 11 tackles and a pick at Oklahoma State … grabbed first interception of the season at Rice.
2006 Season
Showed tremendous promise seeing playing time during true freshman season … saw most action on special teams … posted a tackle in the bowl win over Minnesota … saw significant playing time in relief of Antonio Huffman at cornerback and appeared as a kickoff returner for the first time this season … brought back one kick for 15 yards and had a pass breakup … at TCU (9/16): finished second on the team with seven total tackles (six solo) … also competes in the long jump.
High School
Plainview High School in Plainview, Texas … Three-Star Recruit (Rivals.com; Scout.com) … No. 29 athlete nationally (Rivals.com) … recruited as a cornerback … Class 4A All-State first team … District 4-4A first team as a running back, defensive back and punter … named to Amarillo Globe-News Golden Spread Team and selected as player of the year … rushed for 2,735 yards and 42 touchdowns during senior season … led Class 4A in rushing yards and scoring … rushed for 406 of 466 total yards in the first half against Hereford during senior season (23.3 yards per carry) … also finished the season with two interceptions and a punt return for a touchdown … earned Class 4A All-State first team honors after rushing for 2,024 yards and 28 touchdowns on 308 attempts as a junior … also caught 10 passes for 113 yards … timed at 4.5 in the forty at the Fort Worth NIKE Training Camp … 38-inch vertical … brother of former Tech hoops standout Koy Smith … also offered by Baylor, Kansas State, Purdue, Wake Forest, SMU, TCU and UTEP … High School Coach: Marty McClintock.
Personal
Jamar Wall … born January 10, 1988, in Lubbock … son of Georgia and Jerry Wall … has an older brother and two older sisters … brother, Koy Smith, was a standout basketball player at Texas Tech … enjoys listening to music and playing all sports.
:star: 7th round...#234... Sean Lissemore DT William & Mary
Overview
At 6-3, 230 pounds, Lissemore turned heads in high school when running sprints for the track team. Five years and 70 pounds later, he's still turning heads with his effort and athleticism. The New Jersey native was a four-year contributor for the Tribe, blasting onto the scene with 33 tackles as a redshirt freshman in 2006. He made 43 tackles, two for loss and a sack in first year as starter in 2007, then stepped it up with 51 tackles, 7.5 for loss and four sacks in 2008 - all with a nagging shoulder injury. A sizzling 4.8 40-yard dash at his spring 2009 pro day opened the eyes of scouts, then his All-American, first-team All-CIAA senior season (66 tackles, 14.5 for loss, 6.5 sacks, two interceptions) locked up his status as a draftable prospect. Lissemore and Adrian Tracy both acquitted themselves well at the Texas vs. Nation All-Star Challenge, and then Lissemore wowed NFL teams again with a 4.81 40 at his pro day. His hustling style and agility should be welcomed on any line in the league, especially by 3-4 teams looking for an Aaron Smith, yeoman-like five-technique.
Analysis
Pass rush: Hustle rusher fights through double teams. Swims over linemen if they lean toward him. Fluid running into the backfield, closes quickly on quarterback for his size. Fair change of direction skills. Gives secondary effort to get to the passer if he holds onto the ball too long. Gets his hands into passing lanes, and has the hands to make interceptions on tipped balls.
Run defense: Plays bigger than his weight indicates, but still can get pushed off the line of scrimmage. Keeps eyes in the backfield on run plays, disengages to grab ballcarriers before they get through the hole. Keeps himself alive by recoiling and spinning off doubles to make plays. Excellent chase down the line and downfield.
Explosion: Explosive off the snap for his size and delivers a strong blow, FCS linemen can't prevent him from getting a push on a pass rush or shooting through gaps to penetrate.
Strength: Has enough upper-body strength to disengage against lower-level linemen, whether standing his ground inside or moving down the line, but will have a more difficult time moving linemen at the next level. Loses the leverage battle against stout linemen when playing with his pads too high. Tackling: Very active tackler for an interior lineman, can drop his hips and break down in space to secure the stop. Gets downfield to help teammates bring down ballcarriers. Closes on the ball behind the line of scrimmage using speed and effort. Does not miss tackles. Intangibles: High-motor player who gives full effort to go along with that elite athleticism. Vocal on the sidelines and locker room, also leads by example. Plays hurt.
2009 Season
Earned All-America honors from College Sporting News and Sports Network Selected to the All-CAA First Team … Played in Texas vs. the Nation All-Star Game … Finished the season with 66 total tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks, two interceptions and four passes defended … TFL total ranked sixth in the league, while sack total ranked eighth … Served as a team captain.
2008 Season
Earned starts in all 11 games at defensive tackle … Totaled 51 stops and ranked second on the team with 7.5 tackles for a loss and 4.0 sacks … Ranked sixth in the CAA in tackles among defensive linemen with 4.6 stops per game … Honored as the W&M QB Club Defensive Player of the Week twice (Towson/Richmond) and as the Special Teams Player of the Week once (New Hampshire) … Recorded a career-high 10 tackles with 1.5 tackles for a loss and a sack in the win at New Hampshire … Matched a career high in tackles at James Madison while also registering a tackle for a loss … Tallied a pair of tackles for a loss and a sack in the victory at Towson … Made eight stops and had a sack in the season finale versus Richmond … Posted a tackle for a loss in the triumph against Northeastern … Earned half sacks in the win against Norfolk State and versus Villanova.
2007 Season
Played through variety of nagging injuries to start 10 of 11 games at defensive tackle … Had 43 tackles on the season … Intercepted a pass against UMass … Second on the team in sacks with two … Registered unassisted sacks against Virginia Tech and Delaware, both for seven-yard losses … Tied for third on team in tackles for losses with four … Racked up seven tackles against VMI … Had multiple tackles in every game played, including five tackles against Virginia Tech … Recorded six stops against Hofstra.
2006 Season
Turned in a solid rookie campaign on the defensive line with 33 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack … Tackles figure ranked third among the team's defensive linemen … Assisted on four stops against VMI … Recorded a solo tackle and added two assist at Massachusetts … Collected five total tackles, including two solos, in the win at Liberty … Made four assisted stops against Villanova … Helped in the upset win at Towson with a solo quarterback sack and four solo tackles in total … Tallied four stops, including three unassisted, at Delaware … Continued the strong finish to the year with a season-high seven tackles, including three solos, against Richmond.
2005 Season
Scout team defensive lineman.
Agility Tests
Combine: Did not receive an invitation.
Pro day: 4.81-second 40-yard dash.
High School
Three-year starter for coach Jim Davidson … Saw action at both guard and tackle on offense and defensive end and linebacker on defense … First team all-league as a linebacker in senior season and All-North Jersey Group 2 … Invited to Governor's Bowl and Bergen All-Star game … Helped team to best record in 20 years and a berth in state playoffs … Also earned honorable mention all-county honors … Accumulated 120 total tackles (74 solo), nine sacks and one interception in senior season … Handled kickoff duties … Four-year letterman and All-League performer in track and field in the 100 and 200 meter … Also competed in the shot put … Three-year letter winner in wrestling, where he was also an all-league performer and state medalist at 215 weight class … Member of Captains for Tomorrows Children and school's jazz band … Received 2004 West Point Dwight D. Eisenhower Leadership award … Honor Roll student.
Personal
Son of William and Doretta Lissemore … Enjoys fishing, boating, lifting weights and auto-mechanics … Majoring in kinesiology … Born September 11, 1987 in Teaneck, N.J.