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http://www.pigskinpaul.com/Pigskin_Pauls_Place/Home/Entries/2010/3/20_NFL_Draft_Talk.html
Pigskin Paul’s Place
NFL Draft Talk
Time for installment 2 of HE REMINDS ME OF...
TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA/6’4/350 TED WASHINGTON/MISC TEAMS
Though very limited in his athleticism because of his bulk, his size and natural strength are rare. They are also an absolute necessity for a 3-4 scheme. Amazingly, as pointed out by TONY SPARANO in Mobile, some of these massive guys last a long time in the NFL. WASHINGTON used his bulk to carve out a 15 year NFL career. If CODY can get in some semblance of “massive shape” for the next 5-6 years he too could put together a 10-plus year career, absolutely controlling the line of scrimmage ala BIG TED. RANK 37/ROUND 2
SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS/6’4/250 BRIAN ORAKPO/Commanders
KINDLE played the pass-rush DE position for the Longhorns this season as a favor to the TEXAS coaching staff. Do not be fooled... he is a stand-up OLB who should be comfortable in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. There is no reason to believe he will not be just as successful as a Rookie in the NFL as ORAKPO was in his first year in Washington. Just like ORAKPO, KINDLE should be a double defensive threat in his ability to stop the run and provide some pass-rush on a regular basis. He possesses a nice combination of strength and speed off the edge. RANK 11/ROUND 1
DAN LeFEVOUR/QB/CENTRAL MICHIGAN/6’3/230 TONY ROMO/COWBOYS
One of the key things to remember in this comparison is that even though LeFEVOUR played in D1 his readiness to play the pro game will require a couple of years of learning on an NFL bench. His size, arm strength and athleticism are very comparable to ROMO’s. But his mechanics coming out of college ball, just like ROMO’s, will need fine tuning by an NFL QB guru. Despite often being a scapegoat for failures in Dallas ROMO is clearly in the top dozen QBs in the NFL right now. In time I think LeFEVOUR has the talent and athleticism to follow in ROMO’s footsteps. RANK 62/ROUND 3
ANTHONY McCOY/TE/USC/6’4/260 HEATH MILER/STEELERS
McCOY is not a big offensive weapon, but he will catch more than his share of short and intermediate balls in a West Coast style system. But some folks forget that his initial signature skill was his blocking ability. That’s why I see him having an NFL career similar to that of HEATH MILLER. He will block solidly for the running game, help in picking up outside blitzes and catch enough balls to help keep an NFL Offense advancing the chains. I see him having a more productive pro career than he had as a collegian. RANK 56/ROUND 3
KOA MISI/OLB/UTAH/6’3/250 ANTHONY SPENCER/COWBOYS
Thanks to his week in Mobile we all have a pretty good sense of what MISI can do with his hand off the ground after his college career as a DE. And the picture we got was very attractive for at team looking for a strong, pass rushing edge player, who can actually drop into space n pass coverage. He is ahead of SPENCER already in that area, but otherwise they are very similar in size and athleticism. The footwork and awareness he displayed out in space, while in Mobile, make me think he could possibly handle either a 4-3, or 3-4 scheme, more likely the latter. MISI is not going to crack Round 1 like SPENCER did, but I will be surprised if he is not gone by late in Round 2. RANK 55/ROUND 2
NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6’4/305 DAN HAMPTON/BEARS
I had to go back a couple decades to find a guy I felt had the kind of package SUH brings to the table. And HAMPTON represented the combination of size, strength and quickness that SUH brings to the field of play. HAMPTON even swung outside to End in certain situations. And there is no reason to think that MR. SUH couldn’t do so as well. A major reason for my selection of HAMPTON is that I seem to recall he was extra special at using his hands to keep blockers at bay, and literally throw people around, which is fairly rare at the NFL level. Based on his play in college it certainly appears as though SUH will bring that skill to the League. RANK 1/ROUND 1
ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/6-0/210 ED REED/S/RAVENS
I have been touting this comparison since late in the 2008 season and I see no reason to change it now. In his first two seasons starting for the VOLS he showed his ball hawking ability, flying around the field to snag 12 INT. In 2009 under MONTE KIFFIN he spent much of his time in-the-box keying to stop the run. Like REED he has the athleticism and competitive attitude to lead an NFL Defense by example on the field and in the locker room. Barring injury I see no reason he cannot have the impact career that REED has enjoyed in the NFL, which makes him a very special player. Forget the fact that he plays the under appreciated S position versus Corner (although he could handle CB in most defenses). He should be Drafted TOP 10 this April. RANK 2/ROUND 1
ARMANTI EDWARDS/WR/QB/APPALACHIAN ST/5’11/195 KORDELL STEWART/STEELERS
Do most of you remember the first unofficial “slash/” player from a decade ago in KORDELL? I think that is the fate of EDWARDS in the NFL. His athleticism indicates he can serve a multitude of rolls at the pro level, but is not likely to ever make the grade as a starting QB, which was the attempted role that squelched STEWART’s career. Everyone I speak to is convinced EDWARDS will be able to shine at Return duties in the League, despite not serving that role in college. With the advent of the Wildcat Packages his throwing skills could/should come in handy. EDWARDS had a 68.6% college completion percentage as a QB. If he’s not over-Drafted, and is used in a multiplicity of rolls he could make a very versatile, useful weapon on Sundays, just like STEWART did as Slash. RANK 211/ROUND 6
TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD/6’0/230 LARRY JOHNSON/Commanders
GERHARTs stock is rising these days thanks to his COMBINE work. His straight-line speed does not make him the next AP, but it could translate into a LARRY JOHNSON-style power runner, with long run speed and without the attitude and personal baggage of an LJ. For an NFL team that still utilizes a power running scheme GERHART could be a great bargain early in Round 2. He will surpass JOHNSON on the receiving side of things. He wasn’t called upon to catch a lot of balls at STANFORD, but he shows comfort in space and ran down a lot of balls playing OF for the CARDINAL baseball team. I see GERHART as the good guy-alter ego of JOHNSON for some NFL team. RANK 41/ROUND 2
RODGER SAFFOLD/OG/INDIANA/6’4/315 MARSHALL YANDA/OG/RAVENS
Probably a Third Rounder, SAFFOLD has been slowly climbing up DRAFT Boards with his work starting in Orlando at the SHRINE GAME. Like YANDA, he is functionally sound with enough athleticism to slide out to OT if needed, but may be best suited as an agile, mean tempered inside guy. I can see him earning a starting job in 2-3 years, depending upon how needy the team that Drafts him is along the OL. Like YANDA he is fundamentally sound in his blocking technique and will be more ready to hit the ground running in the Pros than some of the more highly touted College OL prospects. His versatility could come in very handy on an NFL depth chart. RANK 100/ROUND 3
C.J. SPILLER/RB/RS/CLEMSON/5’11/195 REGGIE BUSH/RB/RS/SAINTS
My top ranked RB for the 2010 DRAFT Class reminds me more and more of BUSH coming out of USC every time I pop in a 2009 game tape. He is an explosive HR threat every time he touches the ball, but he is not a Franchise RB like ADRIAN PETERSON. He does some of his best work as a RS, where his speed and elusiveness serve him well. He needs to be targeted for about 20-25 touches per game, no more. This will be another case of the NFL team Drafting him needing to put him in a position to succeed and help the team, rather than running him too often, and between the Tackles. He will not do a team much good on the Injured List every couple of weeks. It took the SAINTS almost 3 seasons to figure out the proper mix for BUSH. Here’s hoping his clone will find an NFL home where they will use him wisely. RANK 15/ROUND 1
I felt I should give you readers my assessment of the publication, on the assumption that some of you like to have some hard copy info at your finger tips over the next month, in addition to your web perusal. It just hit the stands this week and is considered one of the staples of the over-the-counter DRAFT mags. It represents a combined effort from SPORTING NEWS folks, and STREET & SMITH’s survivors since the old TSN folks sold out a couple of years ago.
It’s worth the $7.99 and features the usual fare for this genre of mags. These articles serve more as a primer for newbies than meat for Draftniks.
The bulk of the ranking and evaluation comes from the in-house crew called the WAR ROOM scouts. And this is the area where this magazine gets rather interesting. That group is headed by former NFL Scout RUSS LANDE. And to be frank I find some of his assertions, and evaluations to be ‘out-LANDE-ish’, which by the same token makes them rather intriguing. One of the more compelling charts (and it has been so for several years now) is their ‘Stacking The Board’, Value Board, which slots the prospects by Round value, and overall player ranking. This year’s chart can be found on pages 40-41 of the mag.
This overall DRAFT process prognostication is subjective, and far from a science, but let me fill you in on a few of the conclusions drawn by LANDE and is staff regarding this year’s DRAFT talent.
1.
1)Have you read anywhere else than JONATHAN CROMPTON/TENNESSEE is the 2nd best QB prospect in this year’s DRAFT? On their list only SAM BRADFORD ranks higher.
2.
2) What if I told you War Room guys believe TONY MOEAKI/IOWA is the second best TE prospect and should be taken ahead of JERMAINE GRESHAM/OKLAHOMA! Are you buying that one?
3.
3) Would you be comfortable posting a MOCK anytime soon using their top 3 rated LBs to formulate your First Round? In order of rank they like SERGIO KINDLE/TEXAS, THAD GIBSON/OHIO STATE & DONALD BUTLER/WASHINGTON the best.
4.
4) Are you comfortable that the following players only have 7th Round DRAFT value: BEN TATE/RB/AUBURN; TERRENCE CODY/DT/ALABAMA; JARRETT BROWN/QB/WEST VIRGINIA; MYRON ROLLE/S/FLORIDA STATE?
My suggestion is buy the magazine, but don’t use their rankings to do your MOCK DRAFT. Not unless you want to be mocked by your peers.
1)RAMS/NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA
2)LIONS/GERALD McCOY/DL/OKLAHOMA
3)BUCS/ERIC BERRRY/S/TENNESSEE
4)Commanders/SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA
5)CHIEFS/DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE
6)SEA HAWKS/JIMMY CLAUSEN/QB/NOTRE DAME
7)BROWNS/JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA
8)RAIDERS/RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE
9)BILLS/CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA
10) JAGUARS/ROLANDO McCLAIN/LB/ALABAMA
11)BRONCOS/TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA
12)DOLPHINS/TAYLOR MAYS/S/LB/SOUTHERN CAL
13)49'ERS/ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS
14)SEA HAWKS/C.J. SPILLER/RB/RS/CLEMSON
15)GIANTS/SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS
16)49'ERS/BRANDON SPIKES/LB/FLORIDA
17)TITANS/JERRY HUGHES/OLB/TCU
18)STEELERS/BRIAN BULAGA/OT/IOWA
19)FALCONS/DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GA TECH
20)TEXANS/DAMIAN WILLIAMS/WR/RS/SOUTHERN CAL
21)BENGALS/GOLDEN TATE/WR/RS/NOTRE DAME
22)PATRIOTS/ERIC NORWOOD/LB/SOUTH CAROLINA
23)*PACKERS/JAVIER ARENAS/CB/RS/ALABAMA
24)EAGLES/DAN WILLIAMS/DT/TENNESSEE
* I don't do trades traditionally, but live in PACKERS Country and I think WHITEY is going to move out in a deep DRAFT. I think he picks up an early Round 2 and an extra 2nd Round Pick (maybe more) to move out of Round 1. ARENAS would provide them with an aggressive ball-hawking young CB, who may be ready to start soon, and also solves part of their field position problem with his outstanding Return ability.A team like NE, which has 3 Second Round Picks, might be willing to move up here with a guy like TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD still on the Draft Board.
1/9/2010 For those of you who do not put together a ranked Prospect list (Regardless of Position) you might be amazed at how our lists jump around as more study goes into the relative merits of the players once the NCAA Football season has concluded. That is why the All-Star games are so important to Scouts, professional and amateur.
1.
1. ROLANDO McCLAIN/LB/ALABAMA
2.
2. DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GA TECH
3.
3. CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA
4.
4. JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GA TECH
5.
5. GREG JONES/LB/MICHIGAN STATE
6.
6. GREG ROMEUS/DE/PITT
7.
7. VON MILLER/OLB/TEXAS A&M
8.
8. CHAD JONES/S/LSU
9.
9. MAJOR WRIGHT/S/FLORIDA
10.
10. POUNCEY TWINS/OL/FLORIDA
11.
11. MORGAN BURNETT/S/GA TECH
By the way for you hardcore Draftniks, oh my band of brothers (and sisters), I encourage you to visit the Great Blue North, where cousin COLIN has the most current list of declared Underclassmen that I am aware of. Visit him @ http://www.gbnreport.com/juniors.htm .
DRAFTNIK FEVER 01-07-10
OK, so here we are with the big BCS Championship Game on tap tonight. And this weekend marks the beginning of NFL Play-Off action. Teams around the League whose season is over are hiring/firing Coaches.
So what is PIGSKIN PAUL spending most of his time doing: watching roster postings for the SENIOR BOWL and SHRINE CLASSIC, and following the daily stay-in-school, or play-for-pay decisions from College Underclassmen. It's also an hour or more daily putting together my Regardless of Position Prospect list of the supposed Top 300 DRAFT eligible players. I hope to have that little nugget, which I consider to be the backbone of my DRAFT prognostications, ready for you to access from my website next week.
Such is the unavoidable fate of a DRAFTNIK. It's as strong a natural phenomenon as the yearly instinct for many animals to hibernate. I cannot help myself. I is the natural order of things, at least for me.
The annual carnage has taken place for the East-West SHRINE Classic. The game began posting its roster based on acceptance letters from players early in December. I was seriously impressed to see names like LeFEVOUR, HUGHES, LANG, THOMPSON, McCOURTY, ARTHUR JONES and more appear in the early listings. But as January ushered in a new year many of these names began to disappear from the website listing. Lo and behold those names began to appear at the SENIOR BOWL website, as that game released a couple of names a day of players accepting their invitation to appear in Mobile. This is an annual occurrence as many players accept invites to both games. But in this day and age very few players will appear in more than one of the games. And because of the close affiliation with the NFL and NFLPA the Senior Bowl is the game of choice when push comes to shove. The Senior Bowl draws most of the TOP 100 senior players (those who play at all) because they are coached by current NFL Staffs, which in turn brings nearly twice as many NFL Personnel people to Mobile than the Shrine venue in Orlando.
But before anyone associated with the SHRINE GAME gnashes their teeth in pain, it must be remembered that the NFL DRAFT selects over 250 players each year. For the true football fan, and DRAFTNIK, there is still plenty of interest in what happens the week in Orlando this year, preceding Senior Bowl week. AS of today I still see some TOP 100 potential Draftees on the SHRINE GAME roster. Here are my TOP 12 Prospects shown on the SHRINE roster as of yesterday.
WR/FREDDIE BARNES/BOWLING GREEEN
OG/ZANE BEADLES/UTAH
LB/E/O'BRIEN SCHOFIELD/WISCONSIN
S/DARRELL STUCKEY/KANSAS
DL/VINCE OGHOBAASE/DUKE
DT/EARL MITCHELL/ARIZONA
RB/JAVARRIS JAMES/MIAMI (F)
OG/SHAWN LAUVAO/ARIZONA STATE
DE/C.J. WILSON/EAST CAROLINA
OT/KYLE CALLOWAY/IOWA
S/KAM CHANCELLOR/VA TECH
WR/NAAMAN ROBINSON/BUFFALO
All of these players are in my Top 110 right now, with chances to rise if some highly anticipated Underclassmen decide to stay in school.
Meanwhile, in Mobile the game that flirted with leaving town, is busy announcing it's roster and showing once again that it has the drawing power to command the attention of the top Seniors who transition their careers to the pro level with their participation in this game. With less than half of the rosters revealed I already see 10 potential First Rounders for the 2010 DRAFT on the list. they are:
CB/RS/JAVIER ARENAS/ALABAMA
NT/TERRENCE CODY/ALABAMA
E/LB/JERRY HUGHES/TCU
S/LB/TAYLOR MAYS/SOUTHERN CAL
OLB/ERIC NORWOOD/SOUTH CAROLINA
CB/PATRICK ROBINSON/FLORIDA STATE
OLB/E/GEORGE SELVIE/SOUTH FLORIDA
CB/SYD'QUAN THOMPSON/CAL
OLB/SEAN WEATHERSPOON/MISSOURI
DT/DAN WILLIAMS/TENNESSEE
On a somewhat related note, I am still waiting for someone to come up with a formula that will allow some of the declared players to make ALL-STAR Game appearances. I agree with SCOTT WRIGHT that the premier Underclassmen would not choose to play in any games, but I do think the 2nd & 3rd Round Prospects might like the showcase for their talents. It would increase the overall talent pool in the 3 games (don't forget TEXAS VS NATION), especially from a general fan base interest with more recognizable names in more games. Underclassmen are a part of each DRAFT, and treating their presence like that of red-headed-step-children is unfair and silly.
11/30/09 Due to continuing issues with my laptop I am breaking format precedent in order to get some info to you. Here is my belated, list of top Prospects for the 2010 NFL DRAFT. I am starting with 30 names and hope to have it up to 50 by Monday morning.
1.
1) ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/5-111/205/JR
2.
2) NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6-3/300
3.
3) GERALD McCOY/DL/OKLAHOMA/6-3/295/JR
4.
4) DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/220/JR
5.
5) ROLANDO McCLAIN/ILB/ALABAMA/6-3/255/JR
6.
6) SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA/6-5/220/JR
7.
7) CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA/6-6/290/JR
8.
8) JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA/5-11/190/JR
9.
9) JAKE LOCKER/QB/WASHINGTON/6-2/225/JR
10.
10) ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS/6-5/325/JR
11.
11) ARRELIOUS BENN/WR/ILLINOIS/6-2/220/JR
12.
12) TAYLOR MAYS/SS/SOUTHERN CAL/6-3/230
13.
13) BRIAN BULAGA/OT/IOWA/6-5/315/JR
14.
14) BRANDON SPIKES/ILB/FLORIDA/6-3/250
15.
15) RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-5/305
16.
16) JIMMY CLAUSEN/QB/NOTRE DAME/6-3/225/JR
17.
17) TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA/6-5/355
18.
18) C. J. SPILLER/RB/CLEMSON/5-11/195
19.
19) DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GEORGIA TECH/6-4/275/JR
20.
20) JERY HUGHES/OLB/TCU/6-2/258
21.
21) DESMON BRISCOE/WR/KANSAS/6-2/200/JR
22.
22) SEAN WEATHERSPOON/OLB/MISSOURI/6-1/240
23.
23) JERMAINE GRESHAM/TE/OKLAHOMA/6-5/255
24.
24) TRENT WILLIAMS/OT/OKLAHOMA/6-5/315
25.
25) SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS/6-4/242
26.
26) COLT McCOY/QB/TEXAS/6-2/215
27.
27) ARTHUR JONES/DL/SYRACUSE/6-3/295
28.
28) TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD/6-1/237
29.
29) JEVAN SNEAD/QB/OLE MISS/6-3/215/JR
30.
30) ERIC NORWOOD/OLB/SOUTH CAROLINA/6-1/260
31.
31) JAHVID BEST/RB/CALIFORNIA/5-10/198/JR
32.
32) MARVIN AUSTIN/DT/UNC/6-3/305/JR
33.
33) JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GEORGIA TECH/5-11/235/JR
34.
34) GEORGE SELVIE/OLB/SOUTH FLORIDA/6-4/240
35.
35) DAMIAN WILLIAMS/WR/SOUTHERN CAL/5-11/190/JR
36.
36) JAVIER ARENAS/CB/RS/ALABAMA/5-9/200
37.
37) SYD’QUAN THOMPSON/CB/CALIFORNIA/5-9/195
38.
38) TIM TEBOW/QB/FLORIDA/6-5/245
39.
39) MIKE WILLIAMS/WR/SYRACUSE/6-1/205/JR
40.
40) RICKY SAPP/OLB/CLEMSON/6-3/240
41.
41) CAMERON HEYWARD/DE/OHIO STATE/6-6/290/JR
42.
42) GOLDEN TATE/WR/RS/NOTRE DAME/5-11195/JR
43.
43) DAN LeFEVOUR/QB/CENTRAL MICHIGAN/6-2/232
44.
44) NAVORRO BOWMAN/OLB/PENN STATE/6-0/230/JR
45.
45) BRANDON LaFELL/WR/LSU/6-3/210
46.
46) RYAN MATHEWS/RB/FRESNO STATE/5-11/215/JR
47.
47) GREG JONES/OLB/MICHIGAN STATE/6-1/225/JR
48.
48) JOE McKIGHT/RB/SOUTHERN CAL/5-11/200/JR
49.
49) ALLEN BAILEY/DT/MIAMI (F)/6-4/300/JR
50.
50) GREG ROMEUS/DE/PITT/6-6/270/JR
51.
51) DAN WILLIAMS/DT/TENNESSEE/6-3/325
52.
52) CIRON BLACK/OT/LSU/6-5/330
53.
53) GREG HARDY/DE/OLE MISS/6-4/265
54.
54) ANTONIO COLEMAN/OLB/AUBURN/6-2/255
55.
55) TONY PIKE/QB/CINCINNATI/6-6/225
56.
56) JASON PIERRE-PAUL/DE/SOUTH FORIDA/6-6/265/JR
57.
57) BRANDON GRAHAM/DE/MICHIGAN/6-2/270
58.
58) PATRICK ROBINSON/CB/FLORIDA STATE/5-11/195
59.
59) MARDY GILYARD/WR/RS/CINCINNATI/6-0/190
60.
60) ERIC DECKER/WR/MINNESOTA/6-2/215
Check back for more in the days to some.
11/25/2009 Thanks to the timely efforts of STEVE GLAZIER, Director of Game Operations for the EAST/WEST SHRINE GAME, we have some early excitement, and cause to discuss Draft related football, as initial rosters for the 2010 game are posted, and updated, at the events website http://www.shrinegame.com/rosters.shtm . Even though there may be a few changes to the rosters as the game approaches in late January for various reasons, by updating rosters as letters of acceptance come in from players Steve and his staff give us Draftniks cause for ongoing anticipation of the event.
I was excited to see that the two starting QBs may be fellows who I have touted long and loud over the past year: DAN LeFEVOUR & ZAC ROBINSON. These two guys won’t make it into the First Round next April, but I see both of them as potential NFL starters in a couple of seasons.
I do see several other players who I think will be First Rounders on the rosters I printed up this past Monday morning. Chief among them is JERRY HUGHES/DE from TCU, who is appropriately listed as an OLB on the roster sheet. Though not a sure First Rounder I have another initial roster listing, SYD’QUAN THOMPSON/CAL, as my top ranked Senior CB Prospect.
ARTHUR JONES/DT/SYRACUSE is also listed on the East team roster, though I question if he will be recovered from his recent knee injury in time to play in the January 23rd game in Orlando.
Another highlight while scanning the to-date rosters is the listing of several of the nations top “small-college” players.
Featuring players like TONY WASHINGTON/OT/ABILENE CHRISTIAN, AKWASI OWUSU-ANSAH/CB/INDIANA(PA), & ANDRE ROBERTS/WR/CITADEL can only bring another element of DRAFT interest and enthusiasm to the game.
Come on down and say hello to Pigskin Paul. I’m always glad to meet and talk football with fans and Draftniks.
Pigskin Paul 11/25/2009
11/07/09 The expectation from every corner of the NFL world is that a record number of Underclassmen will be submitting their names for early entry into the 2010 DRAFT when the January deadline draws close. The primary reason to believe that, relates to the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations currently underway between the League and the NFLPA. The parameters for the DRAFT and Rookie Pay are incorporated within CBA detail. College players will be tempted to come out early by two major issues that may be in force by the time of the 2011 DRAFT.
1.
1)If a new CBA is in place there is a high likelihood that there will be a Rookie Pay Scale of some sort spelled out in that agreement.
2.
2)Without a CBA in place all bets are off for a 2011 season. The NFL might still conduct a DRAFT in April of 2011, but the owners may be in no hurry to sign their Draftees and hand out bonus money with the high probability that they will lock out the union players when Fall rolls around.
Agents will get the word out quite aggressively this December that the 2010 DRAFT is the last guaranteed chance for College Players to come out and be subject to current pay patterns. The push will be to get as much bonus money as possible in the bank for Agents and Rookies before the rules change, and/or play is halted. That will be a tough argument to ignore for many players.
My one word of caution, for what it is worth, is that there will still be only 32 First Round Draftees and that is where the big bonus money and slotting pay come into play. The more guys who come out early the more disappointed players there will be who don’t end up in Round 1.
There are many more CBA related issues to discuss, and we’ll have plenty of time for that, especially when the current football seasons are over. So for now let’s move forward with my first full list of Underclassmen I think should, and/or probably will come out of school early:
http://www.pigskinpaul.com/Pigskin_...t_Talk_files/Underclasmen List 2010 DRAFT.pdf
TOP 12 UNDERCLASSMEN Regardless of Position (in alphabetical order)
1.
1)ARRELIOUS BENN/WR/ILLINOIS/6’2/215 2oo8 was a disappointing year for BENN, as it was for most of the Illini. But his talent and size are tantalizing, and if he reverts to form from his ’07 debut he is TOP 10 material.
2.
2)ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/5-10/195 He lacks ideal size, but that is irrelevant in any discussion of this guy’s game. He is simply the best all-around S prospect since ED REED.
3.
3)SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA/6-3/220 He is not the perfect prospect, but he’s the equal of any of the senior QB. If he carries this team to a BCS Championship shot again he’ll be in the hunt for first overall Pick in ’10.
4.
4)DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/215 He brings with him the personality baggage that many WR seem to these days, but his playmaking ability will make him irresistible. Watch for huge numbers this season.
5.
5)BRYAN BALUGA/OT/IOWA/6-6/312 The best OL out of Iowa since GALLERY. And this guy won’t have to move to OG in the NFL. The real deal with size & athleticism. He also benefits from OL guru FERENTZ’ mentoring.
6.
6)ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS/6-6/330 The most gifted OT you’ve never heard of because of where he plays. He is a monster, with great athleticism and skills. He’ll be a perennial Pro Bowler once in the NFL.
7.
7)CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA/6-6/290 You just don’t find enough players with his size and athleticism. With all the talent on the FL D, he still stands out. Can play the run or provide pass-rush.
8.
8)JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GA TECH/5-11/235 A little hard to project because of playing in PAUL JOHNSON’S option O, but he has the power/speed combo that the NFL looks for at his size. Think LARRY JOHNSON.
9.
9) JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA/5-11/190 When you find a CB who can cover, but also likes to hit, you’ve got something special. If he puts up big numbers this year he’ll have a chance to be first CB taken next year.
10.
10) ROLANDO McCLAIN/ILB/ALABAMA/6-4/248 A tacking machine with uncanny speed for his size. But he also has the strength you look for inside. He will be a great fit for an NFL team looking for an ILB to anchor a 3-4 LB corps.
11.
11) GERALD McCOY/DT/OKLAHOMA/6-4/295 He is a disruptive force when healthy. He should fit a 4-3 scheme if teamed with big mauler, but is athletic enough to move outside to DE in a 3-4 and impact the game from there.
12.
12) JEVAN SNEAD/QB/OLE MISS/6-3/215 If he takes the next step up in play in his second season in Oxford there is no way he won’t come out and be a Top 5 Pick. He looks to have the potential to match ELI’s pro potential coming out of college.
BENN A. DAVIS DUNLAP McCLAIN E. BERRY
8/21/09 We are two weeks from the opening of the 2009 COLLEGE FOOTBALL Season and our weekly detailed prospect reports. I’ll be on the air with HUFFY @ 1530 & 950 AM ESPN Radio each Friday between 3-5 PM to talk about the top college match-ups and the Pro Prospects featured in those games. Join us if you can.
So before we get into that detail, and continue with my position-by-position listings let’s make clear who I think the absolute top Prospects are.
TOP 12 SENIORS Regardless of Position (in alphabetical order)
1.
1) TERRANCE CODY/DT/ALABAMA/6-5/350 The weight is a guess, because it fluctuates, but this man-mountain has the potential to be a unique, game changing pro talent.
2.
2) JERMAINE GRESHAM/TE/OKLAHOMA/6-5/260 The best pure TE talent since TONY GONZALEZ . He can do it all, and should post some big numbers this season.
3.
3) ARTHUR JONES/DT/SYRACUSE/6-4/295 A great player on a bad team. He is the active, pursuit type DT who can really wreak havoc if partnered with a massive partner. A 4-3 scheme guy.
4.
4) TAYLOR MAYS/S/USC/6’3/225 An amazing athlete, who still needs to deliver game-to-game performances all season in ’09, but there is no doubt he has the ability to be an NFL Pro Bowler.
5.
5) COLT McCOY/QB/TEXAS/6-2/215 I have changed my mind on COLT and think he has what it takes to be a successful NFL QB. If BREES can get the job done, then so can this guy.
6.
6) RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-5/300 He has a lot to prove in ’09, and needs to show better upper body strength. But he is a big time talent, with superb athleticism.
7.
7)BRANDON SPIKES/ILB/FLORIDA/6-2/240 This is an athletic player who makes plays all over the field, including INT. But best of all, he is a tough guy and loves contact. Probably best in a 3-4 scheme.
8.
8)C.J. SPILLER/RB/CLEMSON/ 5-11/195 Not a franchise RB, but has all the moves, explosiveness and versatility of a REEGIE BUSH. A team that runs a West Coast Offense will covet this player.
9.
9)NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6-3/305 A human highlight reel, at a position you normally don’t say that. He is tough, quick, athletic & exuberant. He will be an impact player in a 4-3 scheme.
10.
10) TIM TEBOW/QB/FLORIDA/6-3/235 A unique talent, who just finds ways to win. Some team has got to figure out a way to go with his athleticism and leadership in the NFL.
11.
11) TRENT WILLIAMS/OT/OKLAHOMA/6-5/320 A very athletic and strong player who has a chance to be a Franchise LT. This season is his time to polish up his technique and make himself the first OT in next year’s Draft.
12.
12) COREY WOOTTON/DE/NORTHWESTERN/6-6/270 If he is totally recovered from last year’s injury you’ll hear about this guy, even given where he plays his college ball. He as the potential to be the ideal 4-3 DE. He has pass rush skills and should be able to add 10-15 lbs.
JONES OKUNG SPIKES MAYS CODY
Those are my guys... so let the debate begin. Early next week I’ll float my TOP 12 Draft eligible Underclassmen at you, and the TOP 10 TE Prospects.
So it seems to me (and my DRAFTNIK followers) that the time is right to move along with my 2010 DRAFT Prospect watch. This edition features the WR group. I am including the top Juniors because most of the top Senior prospects are already in NFL Training Camps. In case you forgot, there were 6 WRs grabbed in Round One of the 2009 DRAFT; all of them were underclassmen.
1.
1) DEZ BRYANT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/215/JR
BRYANT is a play-maker and an NFL star in the wings. He is fast, can locate and leap for the ball, and has a nose for the end zone. He is the favorite target of QB ROBINSON and while you were watching SEC games he caught 87 balls, at 17 ypc and found the end zone 19 times. Yeah, he is that good. He does come with a WR attitude so be prepared, but has Pro Bowler written all over him.
2.
2) ARRELIOUS BENN/ILLINOIS/6-2/220/JR
A lot of folks like BENN more than BRYANT, and I am not going to get into an argument. They are 1a & 1b, truth be told. His numbers suffered in ’08, scoring only 3 TD. But the Illini had a poor season and BENN was dinged up on a couple of occasions. But his size/speed ratio and natural ability are such that Pro Scouts are drooling. He has CRABTREE ability without the attitude. His ’09 performance will dictate how high in R1 he goes.
3.
3) DAMIAN WILLIAMS/SOUTHERN CAL/6-1/190/JR
The most pleasant surprise in ’08 for PETE CARROLL & MARK SANCHEZ was Arkansas transfer WILLIAMS. He is explosive with both quickness and speed. He is a good route runner who gets nice separation from defenders. His hands are very dependable. With another Trojan camp under his belt he should dominate the Pac 10, if the new QB can get him the ball.
4.
4) BRANDON LaFELL/LSU/6-3/210/SR
Brandon actually had his name in for the ’09 DRAFT, but wisely withdrew it when he was rated as a R3 projection by the NFL. His numbers were hurt badly by the QB mess at LSU last season. Look for him to make up for it with some big numbers this year. Even with the chaos of 3 different starting QBs in ’08 he still managed 63 catches for just under 1,000-yds and 8 TD. Though not a speedster he can get separation and his long legs make him hard to catch once he gets a head of speed up. He is fighting to sneak his name into the end of R1, 2010.
5.
5) MARDY GILYARD/CINCINNATI/6-0/185/SR
GILYARD emerged in ’08 as a solid prospect with 81 catches for 1276-yds & 11 TD. He has average speed, but great quickness and very good hands. He has return ability which obviously adds to his potential value. He is a potential No.3 WR who should end up in my Top 100 Prospects list by December, if not sooner.
6.
6) NAAMAN ROOSEVELT/BUFFALO/6-0/187/SR
Catching over 100 balls will get you some attention, no matter where you play. Like many of the wideouts in this year’s group he lacks great speed, but has the moves to get open. He is a disciplined player with dependable hands. As a former QB he understands his routes and what the QB is looking for. He is a high character guy.
7.
7) SHAY HODGE/OLE MISS/6-0/205/SR
His 8 TD catches in ’08, tied for the SEC lead. His 44 grabs are just the beginning for this guy. Though Ole Miss has a large corps of talented receivers his size may make him a favorite of MR. SNEAD. He has great explosiveness which catches DBs by surprise at times. He reminds me of a JORDY NELSON-type receiver, who could explode as a Senior.
8.
8) JORDAN SHIPLEY/TEXAS/6-0/195/SR
He’s not a Top 50 player, but if a pro team needs a possession receiver with great hands and a solid mind to fit into their passing attack pay attention to this guy’s play this Fall. I guarantee that even with lots of talent at the wideout slot, SHIPLEY will reman COLT’s main-man and catch a lot of balls. His Draft status will depend greatly on his 40-number from the COMBINE.
9.
9) JACOBY FORD/CLEMSON/5-9/185/SR
I’m putting him in my Top 10 WR list because of all the things he can do with his explosive speed. He will be one of the fastest players at next years COMBINE. But what makes him special is that his speed is not purely straight-line. He is explosive and quick and is a very dangerous return man. He should excel in the NFL coming out of the slot. I look for DABO and his staff to find more ways to utilize his talents this season.
10.
10) KERRY MEIER/KANSAS/6-2/215/SR
I don’t really think MEIER is going to grade out as the 10th best WR Prospect when next year’s DRAFT rolls around, but he intrigues me. The former starting QB displays excellent hands, great attitude and offers some interesting options to his team with his size, strong arm and QB background. His intelligence and unselfish attitude will have great appeal to the NFL Personnel folks as the DRAFT progresses. Watch for this guy when you watch a KANSAS game this fall.
BRYANT BENN WILLIAMS LaFELL
Pigskin Paul’s Place
NFL Draft Talk
Time for installment 2 of HE REMINDS ME OF...
TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA/6’4/350 TED WASHINGTON/MISC TEAMS
Though very limited in his athleticism because of his bulk, his size and natural strength are rare. They are also an absolute necessity for a 3-4 scheme. Amazingly, as pointed out by TONY SPARANO in Mobile, some of these massive guys last a long time in the NFL. WASHINGTON used his bulk to carve out a 15 year NFL career. If CODY can get in some semblance of “massive shape” for the next 5-6 years he too could put together a 10-plus year career, absolutely controlling the line of scrimmage ala BIG TED. RANK 37/ROUND 2
SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS/6’4/250 BRIAN ORAKPO/Commanders
KINDLE played the pass-rush DE position for the Longhorns this season as a favor to the TEXAS coaching staff. Do not be fooled... he is a stand-up OLB who should be comfortable in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. There is no reason to believe he will not be just as successful as a Rookie in the NFL as ORAKPO was in his first year in Washington. Just like ORAKPO, KINDLE should be a double defensive threat in his ability to stop the run and provide some pass-rush on a regular basis. He possesses a nice combination of strength and speed off the edge. RANK 11/ROUND 1
DAN LeFEVOUR/QB/CENTRAL MICHIGAN/6’3/230 TONY ROMO/COWBOYS
One of the key things to remember in this comparison is that even though LeFEVOUR played in D1 his readiness to play the pro game will require a couple of years of learning on an NFL bench. His size, arm strength and athleticism are very comparable to ROMO’s. But his mechanics coming out of college ball, just like ROMO’s, will need fine tuning by an NFL QB guru. Despite often being a scapegoat for failures in Dallas ROMO is clearly in the top dozen QBs in the NFL right now. In time I think LeFEVOUR has the talent and athleticism to follow in ROMO’s footsteps. RANK 62/ROUND 3
ANTHONY McCOY/TE/USC/6’4/260 HEATH MILER/STEELERS
McCOY is not a big offensive weapon, but he will catch more than his share of short and intermediate balls in a West Coast style system. But some folks forget that his initial signature skill was his blocking ability. That’s why I see him having an NFL career similar to that of HEATH MILLER. He will block solidly for the running game, help in picking up outside blitzes and catch enough balls to help keep an NFL Offense advancing the chains. I see him having a more productive pro career than he had as a collegian. RANK 56/ROUND 3
KOA MISI/OLB/UTAH/6’3/250 ANTHONY SPENCER/COWBOYS
Thanks to his week in Mobile we all have a pretty good sense of what MISI can do with his hand off the ground after his college career as a DE. And the picture we got was very attractive for at team looking for a strong, pass rushing edge player, who can actually drop into space n pass coverage. He is ahead of SPENCER already in that area, but otherwise they are very similar in size and athleticism. The footwork and awareness he displayed out in space, while in Mobile, make me think he could possibly handle either a 4-3, or 3-4 scheme, more likely the latter. MISI is not going to crack Round 1 like SPENCER did, but I will be surprised if he is not gone by late in Round 2. RANK 55/ROUND 2
NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6’4/305 DAN HAMPTON/BEARS
I had to go back a couple decades to find a guy I felt had the kind of package SUH brings to the table. And HAMPTON represented the combination of size, strength and quickness that SUH brings to the field of play. HAMPTON even swung outside to End in certain situations. And there is no reason to think that MR. SUH couldn’t do so as well. A major reason for my selection of HAMPTON is that I seem to recall he was extra special at using his hands to keep blockers at bay, and literally throw people around, which is fairly rare at the NFL level. Based on his play in college it certainly appears as though SUH will bring that skill to the League. RANK 1/ROUND 1
ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/6-0/210 ED REED/S/RAVENS
I have been touting this comparison since late in the 2008 season and I see no reason to change it now. In his first two seasons starting for the VOLS he showed his ball hawking ability, flying around the field to snag 12 INT. In 2009 under MONTE KIFFIN he spent much of his time in-the-box keying to stop the run. Like REED he has the athleticism and competitive attitude to lead an NFL Defense by example on the field and in the locker room. Barring injury I see no reason he cannot have the impact career that REED has enjoyed in the NFL, which makes him a very special player. Forget the fact that he plays the under appreciated S position versus Corner (although he could handle CB in most defenses). He should be Drafted TOP 10 this April. RANK 2/ROUND 1
ARMANTI EDWARDS/WR/QB/APPALACHIAN ST/5’11/195 KORDELL STEWART/STEELERS
Do most of you remember the first unofficial “slash/” player from a decade ago in KORDELL? I think that is the fate of EDWARDS in the NFL. His athleticism indicates he can serve a multitude of rolls at the pro level, but is not likely to ever make the grade as a starting QB, which was the attempted role that squelched STEWART’s career. Everyone I speak to is convinced EDWARDS will be able to shine at Return duties in the League, despite not serving that role in college. With the advent of the Wildcat Packages his throwing skills could/should come in handy. EDWARDS had a 68.6% college completion percentage as a QB. If he’s not over-Drafted, and is used in a multiplicity of rolls he could make a very versatile, useful weapon on Sundays, just like STEWART did as Slash. RANK 211/ROUND 6
TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD/6’0/230 LARRY JOHNSON/Commanders
GERHARTs stock is rising these days thanks to his COMBINE work. His straight-line speed does not make him the next AP, but it could translate into a LARRY JOHNSON-style power runner, with long run speed and without the attitude and personal baggage of an LJ. For an NFL team that still utilizes a power running scheme GERHART could be a great bargain early in Round 2. He will surpass JOHNSON on the receiving side of things. He wasn’t called upon to catch a lot of balls at STANFORD, but he shows comfort in space and ran down a lot of balls playing OF for the CARDINAL baseball team. I see GERHART as the good guy-alter ego of JOHNSON for some NFL team. RANK 41/ROUND 2
RODGER SAFFOLD/OG/INDIANA/6’4/315 MARSHALL YANDA/OG/RAVENS
Probably a Third Rounder, SAFFOLD has been slowly climbing up DRAFT Boards with his work starting in Orlando at the SHRINE GAME. Like YANDA, he is functionally sound with enough athleticism to slide out to OT if needed, but may be best suited as an agile, mean tempered inside guy. I can see him earning a starting job in 2-3 years, depending upon how needy the team that Drafts him is along the OL. Like YANDA he is fundamentally sound in his blocking technique and will be more ready to hit the ground running in the Pros than some of the more highly touted College OL prospects. His versatility could come in very handy on an NFL depth chart. RANK 100/ROUND 3
C.J. SPILLER/RB/RS/CLEMSON/5’11/195 REGGIE BUSH/RB/RS/SAINTS
My top ranked RB for the 2010 DRAFT Class reminds me more and more of BUSH coming out of USC every time I pop in a 2009 game tape. He is an explosive HR threat every time he touches the ball, but he is not a Franchise RB like ADRIAN PETERSON. He does some of his best work as a RS, where his speed and elusiveness serve him well. He needs to be targeted for about 20-25 touches per game, no more. This will be another case of the NFL team Drafting him needing to put him in a position to succeed and help the team, rather than running him too often, and between the Tackles. He will not do a team much good on the Injured List every couple of weeks. It took the SAINTS almost 3 seasons to figure out the proper mix for BUSH. Here’s hoping his clone will find an NFL home where they will use him wisely. RANK 15/ROUND 1
I felt I should give you readers my assessment of the publication, on the assumption that some of you like to have some hard copy info at your finger tips over the next month, in addition to your web perusal. It just hit the stands this week and is considered one of the staples of the over-the-counter DRAFT mags. It represents a combined effort from SPORTING NEWS folks, and STREET & SMITH’s survivors since the old TSN folks sold out a couple of years ago.
It’s worth the $7.99 and features the usual fare for this genre of mags. These articles serve more as a primer for newbies than meat for Draftniks.
The bulk of the ranking and evaluation comes from the in-house crew called the WAR ROOM scouts. And this is the area where this magazine gets rather interesting. That group is headed by former NFL Scout RUSS LANDE. And to be frank I find some of his assertions, and evaluations to be ‘out-LANDE-ish’, which by the same token makes them rather intriguing. One of the more compelling charts (and it has been so for several years now) is their ‘Stacking The Board’, Value Board, which slots the prospects by Round value, and overall player ranking. This year’s chart can be found on pages 40-41 of the mag.
This overall DRAFT process prognostication is subjective, and far from a science, but let me fill you in on a few of the conclusions drawn by LANDE and is staff regarding this year’s DRAFT talent.
1.
1)Have you read anywhere else than JONATHAN CROMPTON/TENNESSEE is the 2nd best QB prospect in this year’s DRAFT? On their list only SAM BRADFORD ranks higher.
2.
2) What if I told you War Room guys believe TONY MOEAKI/IOWA is the second best TE prospect and should be taken ahead of JERMAINE GRESHAM/OKLAHOMA! Are you buying that one?
3.
3) Would you be comfortable posting a MOCK anytime soon using their top 3 rated LBs to formulate your First Round? In order of rank they like SERGIO KINDLE/TEXAS, THAD GIBSON/OHIO STATE & DONALD BUTLER/WASHINGTON the best.
4.
4) Are you comfortable that the following players only have 7th Round DRAFT value: BEN TATE/RB/AUBURN; TERRENCE CODY/DT/ALABAMA; JARRETT BROWN/QB/WEST VIRGINIA; MYRON ROLLE/S/FLORIDA STATE?
My suggestion is buy the magazine, but don’t use their rankings to do your MOCK DRAFT. Not unless you want to be mocked by your peers.
1)RAMS/NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA
2)LIONS/GERALD McCOY/DL/OKLAHOMA
3)BUCS/ERIC BERRRY/S/TENNESSEE
4)Commanders/SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA
5)CHIEFS/DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE
6)SEA HAWKS/JIMMY CLAUSEN/QB/NOTRE DAME
7)BROWNS/JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA
8)RAIDERS/RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE
9)BILLS/CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA
10) JAGUARS/ROLANDO McCLAIN/LB/ALABAMA
11)BRONCOS/TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA
12)DOLPHINS/TAYLOR MAYS/S/LB/SOUTHERN CAL
13)49'ERS/ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS
14)SEA HAWKS/C.J. SPILLER/RB/RS/CLEMSON
15)GIANTS/SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS
16)49'ERS/BRANDON SPIKES/LB/FLORIDA
17)TITANS/JERRY HUGHES/OLB/TCU
18)STEELERS/BRIAN BULAGA/OT/IOWA
19)FALCONS/DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GA TECH
20)TEXANS/DAMIAN WILLIAMS/WR/RS/SOUTHERN CAL
21)BENGALS/GOLDEN TATE/WR/RS/NOTRE DAME
22)PATRIOTS/ERIC NORWOOD/LB/SOUTH CAROLINA
23)*PACKERS/JAVIER ARENAS/CB/RS/ALABAMA
24)EAGLES/DAN WILLIAMS/DT/TENNESSEE
* I don't do trades traditionally, but live in PACKERS Country and I think WHITEY is going to move out in a deep DRAFT. I think he picks up an early Round 2 and an extra 2nd Round Pick (maybe more) to move out of Round 1. ARENAS would provide them with an aggressive ball-hawking young CB, who may be ready to start soon, and also solves part of their field position problem with his outstanding Return ability.A team like NE, which has 3 Second Round Picks, might be willing to move up here with a guy like TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD still on the Draft Board.
1/9/2010 For those of you who do not put together a ranked Prospect list (Regardless of Position) you might be amazed at how our lists jump around as more study goes into the relative merits of the players once the NCAA Football season has concluded. That is why the All-Star games are so important to Scouts, professional and amateur.
1.
1. ROLANDO McCLAIN/LB/ALABAMA
2.
2. DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GA TECH
3.
3. CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA
4.
4. JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GA TECH
5.
5. GREG JONES/LB/MICHIGAN STATE
6.
6. GREG ROMEUS/DE/PITT
7.
7. VON MILLER/OLB/TEXAS A&M
8.
8. CHAD JONES/S/LSU
9.
9. MAJOR WRIGHT/S/FLORIDA
10.
10. POUNCEY TWINS/OL/FLORIDA
11.
11. MORGAN BURNETT/S/GA TECH
By the way for you hardcore Draftniks, oh my band of brothers (and sisters), I encourage you to visit the Great Blue North, where cousin COLIN has the most current list of declared Underclassmen that I am aware of. Visit him @ http://www.gbnreport.com/juniors.htm .
DRAFTNIK FEVER 01-07-10
OK, so here we are with the big BCS Championship Game on tap tonight. And this weekend marks the beginning of NFL Play-Off action. Teams around the League whose season is over are hiring/firing Coaches.
So what is PIGSKIN PAUL spending most of his time doing: watching roster postings for the SENIOR BOWL and SHRINE CLASSIC, and following the daily stay-in-school, or play-for-pay decisions from College Underclassmen. It's also an hour or more daily putting together my Regardless of Position Prospect list of the supposed Top 300 DRAFT eligible players. I hope to have that little nugget, which I consider to be the backbone of my DRAFT prognostications, ready for you to access from my website next week.
Such is the unavoidable fate of a DRAFTNIK. It's as strong a natural phenomenon as the yearly instinct for many animals to hibernate. I cannot help myself. I is the natural order of things, at least for me.
The annual carnage has taken place for the East-West SHRINE Classic. The game began posting its roster based on acceptance letters from players early in December. I was seriously impressed to see names like LeFEVOUR, HUGHES, LANG, THOMPSON, McCOURTY, ARTHUR JONES and more appear in the early listings. But as January ushered in a new year many of these names began to disappear from the website listing. Lo and behold those names began to appear at the SENIOR BOWL website, as that game released a couple of names a day of players accepting their invitation to appear in Mobile. This is an annual occurrence as many players accept invites to both games. But in this day and age very few players will appear in more than one of the games. And because of the close affiliation with the NFL and NFLPA the Senior Bowl is the game of choice when push comes to shove. The Senior Bowl draws most of the TOP 100 senior players (those who play at all) because they are coached by current NFL Staffs, which in turn brings nearly twice as many NFL Personnel people to Mobile than the Shrine venue in Orlando.
But before anyone associated with the SHRINE GAME gnashes their teeth in pain, it must be remembered that the NFL DRAFT selects over 250 players each year. For the true football fan, and DRAFTNIK, there is still plenty of interest in what happens the week in Orlando this year, preceding Senior Bowl week. AS of today I still see some TOP 100 potential Draftees on the SHRINE GAME roster. Here are my TOP 12 Prospects shown on the SHRINE roster as of yesterday.
WR/FREDDIE BARNES/BOWLING GREEEN
OG/ZANE BEADLES/UTAH
LB/E/O'BRIEN SCHOFIELD/WISCONSIN
S/DARRELL STUCKEY/KANSAS
DL/VINCE OGHOBAASE/DUKE
DT/EARL MITCHELL/ARIZONA
RB/JAVARRIS JAMES/MIAMI (F)
OG/SHAWN LAUVAO/ARIZONA STATE
DE/C.J. WILSON/EAST CAROLINA
OT/KYLE CALLOWAY/IOWA
S/KAM CHANCELLOR/VA TECH
WR/NAAMAN ROBINSON/BUFFALO
All of these players are in my Top 110 right now, with chances to rise if some highly anticipated Underclassmen decide to stay in school.
Meanwhile, in Mobile the game that flirted with leaving town, is busy announcing it's roster and showing once again that it has the drawing power to command the attention of the top Seniors who transition their careers to the pro level with their participation in this game. With less than half of the rosters revealed I already see 10 potential First Rounders for the 2010 DRAFT on the list. they are:
CB/RS/JAVIER ARENAS/ALABAMA
NT/TERRENCE CODY/ALABAMA
E/LB/JERRY HUGHES/TCU
S/LB/TAYLOR MAYS/SOUTHERN CAL
OLB/ERIC NORWOOD/SOUTH CAROLINA
CB/PATRICK ROBINSON/FLORIDA STATE
OLB/E/GEORGE SELVIE/SOUTH FLORIDA
CB/SYD'QUAN THOMPSON/CAL
OLB/SEAN WEATHERSPOON/MISSOURI
DT/DAN WILLIAMS/TENNESSEE
On a somewhat related note, I am still waiting for someone to come up with a formula that will allow some of the declared players to make ALL-STAR Game appearances. I agree with SCOTT WRIGHT that the premier Underclassmen would not choose to play in any games, but I do think the 2nd & 3rd Round Prospects might like the showcase for their talents. It would increase the overall talent pool in the 3 games (don't forget TEXAS VS NATION), especially from a general fan base interest with more recognizable names in more games. Underclassmen are a part of each DRAFT, and treating their presence like that of red-headed-step-children is unfair and silly.
11/30/09 Due to continuing issues with my laptop I am breaking format precedent in order to get some info to you. Here is my belated, list of top Prospects for the 2010 NFL DRAFT. I am starting with 30 names and hope to have it up to 50 by Monday morning.
1.
1) ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/5-111/205/JR
2.
2) NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6-3/300
3.
3) GERALD McCOY/DL/OKLAHOMA/6-3/295/JR
4.
4) DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/220/JR
5.
5) ROLANDO McCLAIN/ILB/ALABAMA/6-3/255/JR
6.
6) SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA/6-5/220/JR
7.
7) CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA/6-6/290/JR
8.
8) JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA/5-11/190/JR
9.
9) JAKE LOCKER/QB/WASHINGTON/6-2/225/JR
10.
10) ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS/6-5/325/JR
11.
11) ARRELIOUS BENN/WR/ILLINOIS/6-2/220/JR
12.
12) TAYLOR MAYS/SS/SOUTHERN CAL/6-3/230
13.
13) BRIAN BULAGA/OT/IOWA/6-5/315/JR
14.
14) BRANDON SPIKES/ILB/FLORIDA/6-3/250
15.
15) RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-5/305
16.
16) JIMMY CLAUSEN/QB/NOTRE DAME/6-3/225/JR
17.
17) TERRENCE CODY/NT/ALABAMA/6-5/355
18.
18) C. J. SPILLER/RB/CLEMSON/5-11/195
19.
19) DERRICK MORGAN/DE/GEORGIA TECH/6-4/275/JR
20.
20) JERY HUGHES/OLB/TCU/6-2/258
21.
21) DESMON BRISCOE/WR/KANSAS/6-2/200/JR
22.
22) SEAN WEATHERSPOON/OLB/MISSOURI/6-1/240
23.
23) JERMAINE GRESHAM/TE/OKLAHOMA/6-5/255
24.
24) TRENT WILLIAMS/OT/OKLAHOMA/6-5/315
25.
25) SERGIO KINDLE/OLB/TEXAS/6-4/242
26.
26) COLT McCOY/QB/TEXAS/6-2/215
27.
27) ARTHUR JONES/DL/SYRACUSE/6-3/295
28.
28) TOBY GERHART/RB/STANFORD/6-1/237
29.
29) JEVAN SNEAD/QB/OLE MISS/6-3/215/JR
30.
30) ERIC NORWOOD/OLB/SOUTH CAROLINA/6-1/260
31.
31) JAHVID BEST/RB/CALIFORNIA/5-10/198/JR
32.
32) MARVIN AUSTIN/DT/UNC/6-3/305/JR
33.
33) JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GEORGIA TECH/5-11/235/JR
34.
34) GEORGE SELVIE/OLB/SOUTH FLORIDA/6-4/240
35.
35) DAMIAN WILLIAMS/WR/SOUTHERN CAL/5-11/190/JR
36.
36) JAVIER ARENAS/CB/RS/ALABAMA/5-9/200
37.
37) SYD’QUAN THOMPSON/CB/CALIFORNIA/5-9/195
38.
38) TIM TEBOW/QB/FLORIDA/6-5/245
39.
39) MIKE WILLIAMS/WR/SYRACUSE/6-1/205/JR
40.
40) RICKY SAPP/OLB/CLEMSON/6-3/240
41.
41) CAMERON HEYWARD/DE/OHIO STATE/6-6/290/JR
42.
42) GOLDEN TATE/WR/RS/NOTRE DAME/5-11195/JR
43.
43) DAN LeFEVOUR/QB/CENTRAL MICHIGAN/6-2/232
44.
44) NAVORRO BOWMAN/OLB/PENN STATE/6-0/230/JR
45.
45) BRANDON LaFELL/WR/LSU/6-3/210
46.
46) RYAN MATHEWS/RB/FRESNO STATE/5-11/215/JR
47.
47) GREG JONES/OLB/MICHIGAN STATE/6-1/225/JR
48.
48) JOE McKIGHT/RB/SOUTHERN CAL/5-11/200/JR
49.
49) ALLEN BAILEY/DT/MIAMI (F)/6-4/300/JR
50.
50) GREG ROMEUS/DE/PITT/6-6/270/JR
51.
51) DAN WILLIAMS/DT/TENNESSEE/6-3/325
52.
52) CIRON BLACK/OT/LSU/6-5/330
53.
53) GREG HARDY/DE/OLE MISS/6-4/265
54.
54) ANTONIO COLEMAN/OLB/AUBURN/6-2/255
55.
55) TONY PIKE/QB/CINCINNATI/6-6/225
56.
56) JASON PIERRE-PAUL/DE/SOUTH FORIDA/6-6/265/JR
57.
57) BRANDON GRAHAM/DE/MICHIGAN/6-2/270
58.
58) PATRICK ROBINSON/CB/FLORIDA STATE/5-11/195
59.
59) MARDY GILYARD/WR/RS/CINCINNATI/6-0/190
60.
60) ERIC DECKER/WR/MINNESOTA/6-2/215
Check back for more in the days to some.
11/25/2009 Thanks to the timely efforts of STEVE GLAZIER, Director of Game Operations for the EAST/WEST SHRINE GAME, we have some early excitement, and cause to discuss Draft related football, as initial rosters for the 2010 game are posted, and updated, at the events website http://www.shrinegame.com/rosters.shtm . Even though there may be a few changes to the rosters as the game approaches in late January for various reasons, by updating rosters as letters of acceptance come in from players Steve and his staff give us Draftniks cause for ongoing anticipation of the event.
I was excited to see that the two starting QBs may be fellows who I have touted long and loud over the past year: DAN LeFEVOUR & ZAC ROBINSON. These two guys won’t make it into the First Round next April, but I see both of them as potential NFL starters in a couple of seasons.
I do see several other players who I think will be First Rounders on the rosters I printed up this past Monday morning. Chief among them is JERRY HUGHES/DE from TCU, who is appropriately listed as an OLB on the roster sheet. Though not a sure First Rounder I have another initial roster listing, SYD’QUAN THOMPSON/CAL, as my top ranked Senior CB Prospect.
ARTHUR JONES/DT/SYRACUSE is also listed on the East team roster, though I question if he will be recovered from his recent knee injury in time to play in the January 23rd game in Orlando.
Another highlight while scanning the to-date rosters is the listing of several of the nations top “small-college” players.
Featuring players like TONY WASHINGTON/OT/ABILENE CHRISTIAN, AKWASI OWUSU-ANSAH/CB/INDIANA(PA), & ANDRE ROBERTS/WR/CITADEL can only bring another element of DRAFT interest and enthusiasm to the game.
Come on down and say hello to Pigskin Paul. I’m always glad to meet and talk football with fans and Draftniks.
Pigskin Paul 11/25/2009
11/07/09 The expectation from every corner of the NFL world is that a record number of Underclassmen will be submitting their names for early entry into the 2010 DRAFT when the January deadline draws close. The primary reason to believe that, relates to the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations currently underway between the League and the NFLPA. The parameters for the DRAFT and Rookie Pay are incorporated within CBA detail. College players will be tempted to come out early by two major issues that may be in force by the time of the 2011 DRAFT.
1.
1)If a new CBA is in place there is a high likelihood that there will be a Rookie Pay Scale of some sort spelled out in that agreement.
2.
2)Without a CBA in place all bets are off for a 2011 season. The NFL might still conduct a DRAFT in April of 2011, but the owners may be in no hurry to sign their Draftees and hand out bonus money with the high probability that they will lock out the union players when Fall rolls around.
Agents will get the word out quite aggressively this December that the 2010 DRAFT is the last guaranteed chance for College Players to come out and be subject to current pay patterns. The push will be to get as much bonus money as possible in the bank for Agents and Rookies before the rules change, and/or play is halted. That will be a tough argument to ignore for many players.
My one word of caution, for what it is worth, is that there will still be only 32 First Round Draftees and that is where the big bonus money and slotting pay come into play. The more guys who come out early the more disappointed players there will be who don’t end up in Round 1.
There are many more CBA related issues to discuss, and we’ll have plenty of time for that, especially when the current football seasons are over. So for now let’s move forward with my first full list of Underclassmen I think should, and/or probably will come out of school early:
http://www.pigskinpaul.com/Pigskin_...t_Talk_files/Underclasmen List 2010 DRAFT.pdf
TOP 12 UNDERCLASSMEN Regardless of Position (in alphabetical order)
1.
1)ARRELIOUS BENN/WR/ILLINOIS/6’2/215 2oo8 was a disappointing year for BENN, as it was for most of the Illini. But his talent and size are tantalizing, and if he reverts to form from his ’07 debut he is TOP 10 material.
2.
2)ERIC BERRY/S/TENNESSEE/5-10/195 He lacks ideal size, but that is irrelevant in any discussion of this guy’s game. He is simply the best all-around S prospect since ED REED.
3.
3)SAM BRADFORD/QB/OKLAHOMA/6-3/220 He is not the perfect prospect, but he’s the equal of any of the senior QB. If he carries this team to a BCS Championship shot again he’ll be in the hunt for first overall Pick in ’10.
4.
4)DEZ BRYANT/WR/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/215 He brings with him the personality baggage that many WR seem to these days, but his playmaking ability will make him irresistible. Watch for huge numbers this season.
5.
5)BRYAN BALUGA/OT/IOWA/6-6/312 The best OL out of Iowa since GALLERY. And this guy won’t have to move to OG in the NFL. The real deal with size & athleticism. He also benefits from OL guru FERENTZ’ mentoring.
6.
6)ANTHONY DAVIS/OT/RUTGERS/6-6/330 The most gifted OT you’ve never heard of because of where he plays. He is a monster, with great athleticism and skills. He’ll be a perennial Pro Bowler once in the NFL.
7.
7)CARLOS DUNLAP/DE/FLORIDA/6-6/290 You just don’t find enough players with his size and athleticism. With all the talent on the FL D, he still stands out. Can play the run or provide pass-rush.
8.
8)JONATHAN DWYER/RB/GA TECH/5-11/235 A little hard to project because of playing in PAUL JOHNSON’S option O, but he has the power/speed combo that the NFL looks for at his size. Think LARRY JOHNSON.
9.
9) JOE HADEN/CB/FLORIDA/5-11/190 When you find a CB who can cover, but also likes to hit, you’ve got something special. If he puts up big numbers this year he’ll have a chance to be first CB taken next year.
10.
10) ROLANDO McCLAIN/ILB/ALABAMA/6-4/248 A tacking machine with uncanny speed for his size. But he also has the strength you look for inside. He will be a great fit for an NFL team looking for an ILB to anchor a 3-4 LB corps.
11.
11) GERALD McCOY/DT/OKLAHOMA/6-4/295 He is a disruptive force when healthy. He should fit a 4-3 scheme if teamed with big mauler, but is athletic enough to move outside to DE in a 3-4 and impact the game from there.
12.
12) JEVAN SNEAD/QB/OLE MISS/6-3/215 If he takes the next step up in play in his second season in Oxford there is no way he won’t come out and be a Top 5 Pick. He looks to have the potential to match ELI’s pro potential coming out of college.
BENN A. DAVIS DUNLAP McCLAIN E. BERRY
8/21/09 We are two weeks from the opening of the 2009 COLLEGE FOOTBALL Season and our weekly detailed prospect reports. I’ll be on the air with HUFFY @ 1530 & 950 AM ESPN Radio each Friday between 3-5 PM to talk about the top college match-ups and the Pro Prospects featured in those games. Join us if you can.
So before we get into that detail, and continue with my position-by-position listings let’s make clear who I think the absolute top Prospects are.
TOP 12 SENIORS Regardless of Position (in alphabetical order)
1.
1) TERRANCE CODY/DT/ALABAMA/6-5/350 The weight is a guess, because it fluctuates, but this man-mountain has the potential to be a unique, game changing pro talent.
2.
2) JERMAINE GRESHAM/TE/OKLAHOMA/6-5/260 The best pure TE talent since TONY GONZALEZ . He can do it all, and should post some big numbers this season.
3.
3) ARTHUR JONES/DT/SYRACUSE/6-4/295 A great player on a bad team. He is the active, pursuit type DT who can really wreak havoc if partnered with a massive partner. A 4-3 scheme guy.
4.
4) TAYLOR MAYS/S/USC/6’3/225 An amazing athlete, who still needs to deliver game-to-game performances all season in ’09, but there is no doubt he has the ability to be an NFL Pro Bowler.
5.
5) COLT McCOY/QB/TEXAS/6-2/215 I have changed my mind on COLT and think he has what it takes to be a successful NFL QB. If BREES can get the job done, then so can this guy.
6.
6) RUSSELL OKUNG/OT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-5/300 He has a lot to prove in ’09, and needs to show better upper body strength. But he is a big time talent, with superb athleticism.
7.
7)BRANDON SPIKES/ILB/FLORIDA/6-2/240 This is an athletic player who makes plays all over the field, including INT. But best of all, he is a tough guy and loves contact. Probably best in a 3-4 scheme.
8.
8)C.J. SPILLER/RB/CLEMSON/ 5-11/195 Not a franchise RB, but has all the moves, explosiveness and versatility of a REEGIE BUSH. A team that runs a West Coast Offense will covet this player.
9.
9)NDAMUKONG SUH/DT/NEBRASKA/6-3/305 A human highlight reel, at a position you normally don’t say that. He is tough, quick, athletic & exuberant. He will be an impact player in a 4-3 scheme.
10.
10) TIM TEBOW/QB/FLORIDA/6-3/235 A unique talent, who just finds ways to win. Some team has got to figure out a way to go with his athleticism and leadership in the NFL.
11.
11) TRENT WILLIAMS/OT/OKLAHOMA/6-5/320 A very athletic and strong player who has a chance to be a Franchise LT. This season is his time to polish up his technique and make himself the first OT in next year’s Draft.
12.
12) COREY WOOTTON/DE/NORTHWESTERN/6-6/270 If he is totally recovered from last year’s injury you’ll hear about this guy, even given where he plays his college ball. He as the potential to be the ideal 4-3 DE. He has pass rush skills and should be able to add 10-15 lbs.
JONES OKUNG SPIKES MAYS CODY
Those are my guys... so let the debate begin. Early next week I’ll float my TOP 12 Draft eligible Underclassmen at you, and the TOP 10 TE Prospects.
So it seems to me (and my DRAFTNIK followers) that the time is right to move along with my 2010 DRAFT Prospect watch. This edition features the WR group. I am including the top Juniors because most of the top Senior prospects are already in NFL Training Camps. In case you forgot, there were 6 WRs grabbed in Round One of the 2009 DRAFT; all of them were underclassmen.
1.
1) DEZ BRYANT/OKLAHOMA STATE/6-2/215/JR
BRYANT is a play-maker and an NFL star in the wings. He is fast, can locate and leap for the ball, and has a nose for the end zone. He is the favorite target of QB ROBINSON and while you were watching SEC games he caught 87 balls, at 17 ypc and found the end zone 19 times. Yeah, he is that good. He does come with a WR attitude so be prepared, but has Pro Bowler written all over him.
2.
2) ARRELIOUS BENN/ILLINOIS/6-2/220/JR
A lot of folks like BENN more than BRYANT, and I am not going to get into an argument. They are 1a & 1b, truth be told. His numbers suffered in ’08, scoring only 3 TD. But the Illini had a poor season and BENN was dinged up on a couple of occasions. But his size/speed ratio and natural ability are such that Pro Scouts are drooling. He has CRABTREE ability without the attitude. His ’09 performance will dictate how high in R1 he goes.
3.
3) DAMIAN WILLIAMS/SOUTHERN CAL/6-1/190/JR
The most pleasant surprise in ’08 for PETE CARROLL & MARK SANCHEZ was Arkansas transfer WILLIAMS. He is explosive with both quickness and speed. He is a good route runner who gets nice separation from defenders. His hands are very dependable. With another Trojan camp under his belt he should dominate the Pac 10, if the new QB can get him the ball.
4.
4) BRANDON LaFELL/LSU/6-3/210/SR
Brandon actually had his name in for the ’09 DRAFT, but wisely withdrew it when he was rated as a R3 projection by the NFL. His numbers were hurt badly by the QB mess at LSU last season. Look for him to make up for it with some big numbers this year. Even with the chaos of 3 different starting QBs in ’08 he still managed 63 catches for just under 1,000-yds and 8 TD. Though not a speedster he can get separation and his long legs make him hard to catch once he gets a head of speed up. He is fighting to sneak his name into the end of R1, 2010.
5.
5) MARDY GILYARD/CINCINNATI/6-0/185/SR
GILYARD emerged in ’08 as a solid prospect with 81 catches for 1276-yds & 11 TD. He has average speed, but great quickness and very good hands. He has return ability which obviously adds to his potential value. He is a potential No.3 WR who should end up in my Top 100 Prospects list by December, if not sooner.
6.
6) NAAMAN ROOSEVELT/BUFFALO/6-0/187/SR
Catching over 100 balls will get you some attention, no matter where you play. Like many of the wideouts in this year’s group he lacks great speed, but has the moves to get open. He is a disciplined player with dependable hands. As a former QB he understands his routes and what the QB is looking for. He is a high character guy.
7.
7) SHAY HODGE/OLE MISS/6-0/205/SR
His 8 TD catches in ’08, tied for the SEC lead. His 44 grabs are just the beginning for this guy. Though Ole Miss has a large corps of talented receivers his size may make him a favorite of MR. SNEAD. He has great explosiveness which catches DBs by surprise at times. He reminds me of a JORDY NELSON-type receiver, who could explode as a Senior.
8.
8) JORDAN SHIPLEY/TEXAS/6-0/195/SR
He’s not a Top 50 player, but if a pro team needs a possession receiver with great hands and a solid mind to fit into their passing attack pay attention to this guy’s play this Fall. I guarantee that even with lots of talent at the wideout slot, SHIPLEY will reman COLT’s main-man and catch a lot of balls. His Draft status will depend greatly on his 40-number from the COMBINE.
9.
9) JACOBY FORD/CLEMSON/5-9/185/SR
I’m putting him in my Top 10 WR list because of all the things he can do with his explosive speed. He will be one of the fastest players at next years COMBINE. But what makes him special is that his speed is not purely straight-line. He is explosive and quick and is a very dangerous return man. He should excel in the NFL coming out of the slot. I look for DABO and his staff to find more ways to utilize his talents this season.
10.
10) KERRY MEIER/KANSAS/6-2/215/SR
I don’t really think MEIER is going to grade out as the 10th best WR Prospect when next year’s DRAFT rolls around, but he intrigues me. The former starting QB displays excellent hands, great attitude and offers some interesting options to his team with his size, strong arm and QB background. His intelligence and unselfish attitude will have great appeal to the NFL Personnel folks as the DRAFT progresses. Watch for this guy when you watch a KANSAS game this fall.
BRYANT BENN WILLIAMS LaFELL
