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http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Top-100-prospects-for-2011-Part-6.html
Top 10 prospects for 2011A familiar name tops our list of seniors worth watching next season. Wes Bunting
Print This Send This May 10, 2010, 02:00 PM EST .25 Comments .With the 2010 NFL Draft wrapped up, it’s time to turn our attention to 2011 and take a look at some of the top prospects for next season. This week, I’ll be doing a six-part series identifying my top 100 senior prospects. Remember this is only a preliminary look. Here are my prospects ranked 1-10.
1. QB Jake Locker, Washington (6-3, 226)
A favorite of the National Football Post who spent most of the 2009 season ranked at the top the NFP’s Super 30. He’s a tough, strong-armed kid who can make all the throws as well as create with his feet once he breaks containment. I expect him to continue maturing in the intricacies of the pass game next season under Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian and make a legit run for the top overall spot in 2011. The only real concern I have is whether Locker fully loves the game of football or sees himself playing baseball at the next level.
AP
Ohio State DL Cameron Heyward
2. DL Cameron Heyward, Ohio State (6-5, 288)
There isn’t much this guy can’t do. He’s strong enough to anchor at the point of attack as both a 3-4 or 4-3 DE and also possesses the get-off burst to shoot gaps and penetrate inside. He will likely end up being on just about every team’s draft board and looks like a potential blue-chip defensive lineman in any scheme.
3. DE Adrian Clayborn, Iowa (6-3, 282)
Nebraska’s Ndamukong Suh and Oklahoma’s Gerald McCoy were the two most dominant defensive linemen I saw on tape last year. However, I could easily make the case that No. 3 was Iowa’s Adrian Clayborn. He’s not an explosive, quick-twitch edge rusher, but the guy plays with tremendous power, knows how to use his long arms and powerful hands to shed blocks and has a great feel for both the run and pass game. Projects as a very good three-down lineman in the NFL.
4. OT Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin (6-7, 325)
Carimi is a tall, long-armed offensive tackle who showcases a real mean streak in the run game and impressive overall range and athleticism vs. the pass. He still needs to tighten up his overall footwork off the edge as he has a tendency to get a bit overextended on his kick-slide, but the tools are there for him to be the top offensive tackle off the board next April.
5. OLB Von Miller, Texas A&M (6-2, 240)
You can say what you want about his size, but Miller was one of the most natural pass rushers I saw on tape last season. He not only was able to consistently fire off the edge and cleanly reach the corner, he also was so sudden and fluid even at top speed that he would routinely sidestep blocks and accelerate toward the quarterback. Looks like potential impact-caliber pass-rushing outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.
AP
North Carolina FS Deunta Williams
6. FS Deunta Williams, North Carolina (6-2, 210)
A great looking safety prospect who exhibits impressive range and power vs. both the run and pass game. However, it’s his fluidity, balance and change-of-direction skills for a safety of his size that have me so intrigued. Williams still has a tendency to gamble at times and will take himself out of some plays, but as a senior I really expect him to showcase more discipline in the deep half and mature into one of the nation’s top ball-hawks.
7. CB Prince Amukamara, Nebraska (6-1, 200)
He’s tall, he’s long, and most impressive of all, he has the body control to consistently win in press coverage. Amukamara looks natural getting his hands on receivers, re-routing them off the line and making it extremely tough for them to get into their routes. He has the size/strength to handle the bigger receivers he faces in the Big 12, plus the coordination/balance to also cleanly get out of his breaks and flip his hips vs. off man. Possesses a game tailor-made for the NFL
8. DT Marvin Austin, North Carolina (6-3, 305)
From a physical standpoint, this guy has it all. He’s a natural bender with a thick base who’s tough to move off the ball. Plus, he possesses a good first step for his size with the range to run sideline to sideline and track the football. However, he simply has not put it all together yet. He has yet to learn how to use his hands properly to consistently disengage from blocks and hasn’t become a legitimate big-time playmaker inside. He did come back for his senior season, so obviously Austin wants to make sure he’s as NFL-ready as he can be. It will be interesting to see how he develops from a technical standpoint this offseason.
9. NT Jerrell Powe, Ole Miss (6-2, 340)
I know this might be a little high for Powe, but I honestly think he projects as one of the best pure nose tackles in the class. He possesses a skill set similar to that of former Boston College standout B.J. Raji as he’s tough to move off the ball and showcases impressive athleticism for his size. Ultimately, I think he could be someone you might build your defense around inside at the next level.
10. DL Allen Bailey, Miami (6-4, 288)
After watching tape of Bailey in 2009, the guy flashes downright dominant ability. He’s explosive off the ball, is extremely powerful and strong for his size and has the kind of length to consistently fight his way off blocks. However, he’s still learning the position and hasn’t quite put it all together matching his technique with his physical ability. Nevertheless, he was productive in ’09, and if he continues to work hard and develop, the sky really is the limit for an athlete of his caliber.
11. DT Stephen Paea, Oregon State (6-1, 311)
A former rugby standout who plays with impressive leverage and unleashes one of the most compact and powerful punches in the nation. Plus, he possesses an explosive first step when asked to shoot gaps inside and is simply too strong and too sudden to be blocked one-on-one. Paea is still only starting to scratch the surface of his potential, but he looks like an intriguing three-technique option in the NFL.
AP
Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder looks poised for a big year.
12. QB Christian Ponder, Florida State (6-3, 227)
If it wasn’t for a late-season shoulder injury, who knows how early Ponder would have come off the board if he had entered the 2010 draft? However, I think it was best for him to go back to school, continue his development at the position and put his best foot forward as a senior. What I love about Ponder is that there’s absolutely no sense of entitlement with this kid. He’s a former three-start recruit who battled through adversity in his early years at Florida State, but because of his work ethic, intelligence and passion, he’s turned himself into one of the more NFL-ready passers in the nation and looks like a legit starting quarterback at the next level.
13. SS DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson (6-1, 210)
A tall, well-built safety who showcases impressive range and closing speed for an athlete of his dimensions in the deep half. What’s even more impressive are his instincts and ability to read and react quickly and instantly find the football. He finished the 2009 season with eight interceptions and possesses the kind of ball skills needed to mature into an impact-caliber defensive back.
14. OLB Bruce Carter, North Carolina (6-3, 230)
To say this guy is a gifted sideline-to-sideline athlete doesn’t do him justice. He absolutely flies around the field and has the range to consistently make plays in pursuit. However, what I like even more about his game is the power he exhibits on contact when asked to take on blocks as he does a nice job lowering his base and playing with proper leverage. He still has a tendency to take himself out of plays and will lose track of the football inside, but I expect him to improve his overall feel for the game with another year of development.
15. DE Greg Romeus, Pittsburgh (6-5, 270)
An athletic-looking, long-armed defensive end prospect who showcases an above-average first step and natural body control for his size. Possesses good power and stack-and-shed ability when asked to play the pass and is really tough to block for an extended period of time. Plus, he has the frame to play the run and projects as a very solid three-down option for an NFL defense.
16. OL Mike Pouncey, Florida (6-5, 320)
Mike is the twin brother of Steelers first-round pick Maurkice Pouncey and possesses a very similar skill set. He exhibits good overall girth and power at the point of attack when asked to anchor and does a nice job sliding his feet and staying on blocks through contact. However, the biggest difference between the two brothers’ play last season was the disparity in overall balance. Mike wasn’t nearly as clean when asked to redirect in space and had a tendency to get a bit over-extended lunging into blocks. Even so, if he can tighten up his footwork and become more patient inside, there’s no reason to think he can’t go somewhere in round one.
AP
Jerrod Johnson's development this year will be key.
17. QB Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M (6-5, 243)
Physically, his still set will make you say, “Wow.” He possesses a tall, strong-looking frame and has the ability to make all the throws, and when he breaks containment, watch out because he’s a load to bring down in the open field. However, what makes Johnson even more intriguing is his development under Texas A&M head coach Mike Sherman the past two season. Obviously, he still needs some work, but he really seemed to turn the corner the last two games of the 2009 season, and it will be interesting how far he’s come this offseason.
18. OT Nate Solder, Colorado (6-9, 305)
It’s tough to look past Solder’s physical measurables at this stage because he’s the kind of prospect who makes you wonder just how good he could be. Technically, he’s as raw as they come – which is to be expected from a former high school tight end. However, it’s obvious he has the range and athleticism needed to block on the edge at the next level and is another guy I can’t wait to evaluate next season to see how much development has taken place over the course of the year.
19. DT Drake Nevis, LSU (6-1, 292)
Nevis was far and away the most disruptive defensive lineman on the LSU roster last season, as his explosive first step and natural lower-body strength made him tough to block inside. Pair that with his non-stop motor and ability to consistently gain leverage on contact, and I don’t think it will be long until he starts to get the attention he deserves.
20. RB Noel Devine, West Virginia (5-8, 176)
This might be a little high for a 5-8, 176-pound back, but after looking over the rest of the senior class, there aren’t too many other guys I would rather have on my team. Devine is simply lightning in a bottle, with an ability to make a defender miss in a phone booth and instantly accelerate into daylight. Plus, he did a much better job being patient last year running between the tackles and grinding out tough yards inside. I still don’t think he will ever be an every-down back in the NFL, but he’s a game-changer who will add a dynamic big-play threat to whatever offense drafts him.
21. OC Kristofer O’Dowd, USC (6-5, 300)
A technically sound center who displays good bend and natural fluidity inside. Expect him to bounce back in a big way after an injury-riddled junior season.
AP
Schilling is a seasoned starter for the Michigan offensive line.
22. OG Stephen Schilling, Michigan (6-5, 304)
Was kicked inside to guard as a junior and possesses the athleticism and body control to get out to the second level in the run game as well as stick to blocks in pass protection.
23. OC Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State (6-3, 298)
A seasoned interior lineman who understands leverage, uses his hands well and does a nice job sticking to blocks through contact. Struggled a bit at times last year after making the move from guard to center but should be one of the top center prospects in the nation.
24. OL Jason Pinkston, Pittsburgh (6-4, 305)
A thick well-built offensive lineman who looks a lot broader and plays a lot stronger at the point than his body would indicate. I don’t think he has the range to play on the blind side in the NFL, but he projects as an intriguing potential guard prospect.
25. LB Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina (6-2, 235)
Showcases impressive closing speed once he locates the football and should make plenty of plays in pursuit in 2010. However, he isn’t the quickest to decipher information inside and is better suited to the outside at the next level.
26. OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College (6-7, 295)
Possesses a long, lean-looking body but has the athleticism to reach the corner and mirror in space. However, he needs to add more girth/strength to his overall frame since he struggles to handle any kind of power.
27. DE Sam Acho, Texas (6-3, 260)
A productive pass rusher who showcases a nice blend of burst, power and suddenness on contact. Uses his hands well to shed blocks and looks to be the next in line of potential highly drafted Texas pass rushers.
AP
North Carolina cornerback Kendric Burney knows how to make plays on the football.
28. CB Kendric Burney, North Carolina (5-9, 190)
Showcases not only good body control and balance when asked to turn and run but does a great job locating the ball and going up to make a play. Projects as a starting-caliber cornerback on the outside at the next level.
29. OL Orlando Franklin, Miami (6-7, 318)
He’ll make the move to offensive tackle this season after playing his first three years at left guard. Possesses impressive body control for a lineman his size with the power to overwhelm at the point of attack in the run game.
30. ILB Greg Jones, Michigan State (6-1, 224)
Not only displays impressive range and body control to slip blocks and make plays away from his frame, but he also does a nice job dropping his pad level and playing with natural leverage inside. Lacks ideal size but has a real feel for the game and is an absolute tackling machine.
31. OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State (6-2, 285)
Is a bit undersized for the position, but he’s a natural bender who plays with consistent leverage and the point of attack and looks fluid moving his feet through contact. Won’t fit into every NFL offense, but he’d be ideal in a zone-blocking scheme.
32. DE Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma (6-3, 260)
Exhibits impressive range when asked to run sideline to sideline and showcases a good first step off the edge. Plays with more power than given credit for and projects as a potential starting caliber 3-4 rush linebacker.
33. CB Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech (5-11, 190)
Possesses a nice-sized frame for the position and has the ability to be physical off the line and turn and run. Does a nice job finding the football quickly and looks like the next Virginia Tech defensive back to make his way into the NFL.
AP
Saunders has the size to win in both the run and pass game at the next level.
34. TE Weslye Saunders, South Carolina (6-5, 280)
A massive tight end prospect who runs surprisingly well for his size and showcases the body control to go up and get the football. Plus, he has the frame to handle himself with his hand on the ground and looks like a very capable “on the line Y” at the next level.
35. OG John Moffitt, Wisconsin (6-5, 320)
A thickly built interior lineman who does a nice job creating space in the run game, and once he gets his hands on you, the battle is over.
36. FS Chris Culliver, South Carolina (6-0, 190)
Showcases an impressive blend of body control, balance and ball skills when asked to play in man coverage, as well as the range to ball-hawk in the deep half. Just needs to continue to improve his ability to quickly read and react.
37. NT Phil Taylor, Baylor (6-4, 355)
Don’t expect him to look comfortable playing in space vs. Big 12 offenses. However, he’s a powerful two-gapping-type nose who can eat up blocks and anchor at the point of attack. Could end up being a much better pro than he’s been in college.
38. DL Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson (6-4, 310)
Possesses a great-looking frame with a really impressive first step for his size. He will struggle to consistently find the football inside and shed blocks, but he offers the versatility to play in 4-3 and 3-4 defenses.
39. RB Kendall Hunter, Oklahoma State (5-8, 200)
Showcases impressive patience, vision and cutback ability in between the tackles with the body control to make a man miss at the drop of a hat. Might be a bit undersized, but he runs with a low pad level. If he can stay healthy, Hunter looks poised for a big year.
40. CB Curtis Brown, Texas (6-0,180)
Displays a real feel for the pass game and does a nice job being physical with receivers down the field and undercutting routes. Is still a bit raw with his footwork and has a tendency to open up his hips too early, but he looks comfortable in man.
41. DE Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue (6-4, 263)
Isn’t the most explosive athlete off the edge, but he plays with a great motor, understands how to use his hands and knows how to slip blocks. Expect him to be one of the most efficient pass rushers in the nation next season.
42. OT Joseph Barksdale, LSU (6-5, 315)
A gifted athlete with good range and fluidity off the edge. Showcases natural bend in his lower half and can anchor at the point, but he needs to do a better job maintaining balance and sticking to blocks through contact.
AP
James Rodgers has the ability to be dynamic in the open field at the next level.
43. WR James Rodgers, Oregon State (5-7, 188)
Lacks ideal size, but he’s very sudden and explosive in the open field and projects as a potential impact-caliber slot guy at the next level.
44. DE Cliff Matthews, South Carolina (6-4, 250)
A productive SEC pass rusher who possesses the kind of get-off burst needed to threaten the edge at the next level. However, it’s his impressive body control that allows him to consistently maintain balance when flattening out around the corner.
45. ILB Nate Irving, North Carolina State (6-1, 235)
In my opinion, he was, without a doubt, one of the best linebackers I saw on tape in 2008. If he can regain his form from two seasons ago after missing last year because of injury, he should really make a move up draft boards.
46. OT Clint Boling, Georgia (6-5, 310)
A gifted athlete for his size who exhibits good range off the edge in pass protection, but he struggles to consistently keep his base down and isn’t much of a factor as an in-line run guy.
47. OL Benjamin Ijalana, Villanova (6-4, 320)
A downright dominant small-school lineman who has the makings to move himself up in the early part of the draft with another strong season.
48. CB Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson (5-11, 190)
A natural cover man who showcases good balance when asked to turn and run and knows how to find the football down the field. In my opinion, he was the best cornerback on Clemson last season – yes, better than Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor.
49. QB Pat Devlin, Delaware (6-4, 220)
The one senior quarterback to keep an eye on. Struggled with turnovers as a junior last season but has the skill set to set the world on fire at the I-AA level and make a strong push up draft boards.
AP
Royster is a natural inside runner who knows how to break tackles and move the chains.
50. RB Evan Royster, Penn State (6-1, 213)
Exhibits good power and patience inside and has a real feel for running between the tackles. However, he plays at one speed and looks to me like a poor man’s Matt Forte.
51. ILB Kelvin Sheppard, LSU (6-3, 239)
Possesses good size and power for the position and is surprisingly comfortable in space vs. the pass game. Displays a nose for the ball and will likely be one of the top tacklers again in the SEC.
52. WR Greg Little, North Carolina (6-3, 214)
He isn’t a burner by any stretch, but he knows how to separate underneath and is a load to bring down after the catch. Is one of the more intriguing wideouts in next year’s class.
53. WR Austin Pettis, Boise State (6-3, 201)
A long, lean receiver who possesses great concentration and body control when asked to go up and make a play on the football. Lacks elite burst or suddenness out of his breaks but projects as a potential solid No 2-type option.
54. DT Colby Whitlock, Texas Tech (6-2, 287)
He isn’t the biggest of defensive tackles but displays a good first step, uses his hands well to fight his way through contact and has a motor that never stops. A guy who knows how to cause havoc inside.
55. FB Stanley Havili, USC (6-1, 230)
One of the better fullback prospects to come along in years. He can reach defenders off his frame as a lead blocker, looks comfortable catching the ball out of the backfield and knows how to create with the ball in his hands.
56. DB Ras-I Dowling, Virginia (6-2, 200)
A talented defensive back who does a nice job playing the football down the field. However, he consistently gets too upright in his drop and struggles to quickly break down and cleanly change directions. Looks more like a free safety prospect than a corner.
AP
Bynes has the range and power to consistently bring ball carriers down on all levels of the field.
57. LB Josh Bynes, Auburn (6-2, 239)
Another well-built SEC linebacker with good power and closing speed inside. However, he simply isn’t as instinctive as the other linebackers who have already made our list.
58. DE Jabaal Sheard, Pittsburgh (6-4, 260)
Plays with impressive natural bend and balance when flattering out around the corner and does a great job making himself small when accelerating toward the quarterback. Has been overshadowed by teammate Greg Romeus but is a heck of a player in his own right.
59. S Ahmad Black, Florida (5-9, 190)
A veteran presence in the Florida secondary who might lack great size/speed numbers, but he redirects well in space and knows how to make plays on all areas of the field.
60. S Jaiquawn Jarrett, Temple (6-2, 195)
Don’t sleep on this Temple standout. He not only possesses the size and power to tackle in the run game, he’s also extremely fluid for his size when asked to change directions and close on the football vs. the pass.
61. RB Allen Bradford, USC (5-11, 235)
Showcases good balance and patience running inside with the power to consistently break tackles and accelerate into the open field. Could be one of the draft’s fastest-rising running backs with a strong season.
62. OL Jarriel King, South Carolina (6-5, 310)
A guy I really loved off tape after the 2008 season and thought had the makings of one of the better offensive linemen in the nation. However, he was very inconsistent last season and has some medical concerns that could worry NFL teams.
63. DL Christian Ballard, Iowa (6-5, 285)
Possesses one of the most explosive first steps of any defensive tackle in the country and makes a living in opponents’ backfields. Has a frame built to play the DE position at the next level, but could be a hot commodity as a potential five-technique come April.
64. DE Brooks Reed, Arizona (6-3, 255)
Struggled his way through an injury-riddled junior season, but when this guy is healthy, he possesses the burst and motor to be a force off the edge.
65. TE D.J. Williams, Arkansas (6-2, 250)
A versatile pass catcher who can line up all over the offense and make plays down the seam. Exhibits impressive athleticism for a guy his size and has the natural power to break tackles and create with the ball in his hands.
66. DE Ricky Elmore, Arizona (6-5, 260)
Isn’t quite the same caliber of athlete as teammate Brooks Reed, but he has a big frame with some suddenness/power on contact and is absolutely relentless in pursuit.
67. OT Rob McGill, Louisiana Tech (6-6, 310)
A tall, long-armed blocker who looks comfortable in pass protection and displays the range to consistently reach the edge. Isn’t getting a ton of attention right now, but could be in store for a big rise up draft boards with another strong year.
AP
DeMarco Murray looks like an ideal third down back at the next level.
68. RB DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma (6-0, 214)
Possesses the straight-line speed to be dynamic in the open field and also catches the ball well out of the backfield. But he runs too upright to consistently be effective between the tackles and looks to me like a third-down option.
69. DT Adrian Taylor, Oklahoma (6-4, 292)
Would be ranked a lot higher if it weren’t for his many medical concerns. He’s a long, powerful lineman with the ability to be disruptive inside, but it’s anyone guess how effective he can be in 2010 coming off a severe leg injury.
70. TE Mike McNeill, Nebraska (6-4, 240)
A savvy pass catcher who has a real feel for finding soft spots underneath and is also a better athlete than given credit for.
71. OG Justin Boren, Ohio State (6-3, 315)
Isn’t the greatest of lateral athletes inside but plays with a good pad level, keeps his base down and has the lower body strength to anchor and win at the point in the run game.
72. RB Graig Cooper, Miami (6-0, 205)
It’s a shame he tore his ACL in Miami’s bowl game last season because before the injury, I thought he was easily the nation’s second-best senior running back. It will be interesting to see if he’s healthy and ready to go in September.
73. CB Charles Brown, North Carolina (5-10, 205)
Possesses good strength and overall physicality in press coverage and does a nice job rerouting wideouts off the line. Just needs to continue working on the finer points of the game and do a better job turning and locating the football.
74. FB Charles Clay, Tulsa (6-3, 230)
There aren’t too many things this guy can’t do. He runs with power/shiftiness inside, can pluck the football out of the backfield and shows a willingness to block as a lead guy. Looks like a future “do-it-all” type of fullback at the next level.
75. DE Pernell McPhee, Mississippi State (6-4, 285)
A strong, stout lineman who exhibits an impressive first step and overall body control for his size. He’s still trying to figure out the SEC game after coming from the junior college ranks but has an intriguing NFL-caliber skill set.
76. TE Luke Stocker, Tennessee (6-6, 253)
Possesses great size for the position and has the ability to use his big frame to box defenders out underneath as well as win at the point in the run game.
77. DE Pierre Allen, Nebraska (6-5, 265)
An intriguing size/speed guy who possesses some natural pass rush ability, but it will be interesting to see how he does this year without Ndamukong Suh eating up blocks inside.
78. SS Duke Ihenacho, San Jose State (6-1, 210)
Lacks great straight-line speed, but he’s a natural athlete who reads and reacts quickly and always seems to flying around the football.
79. DL Ladi Ajiboye, South Carolina (6-1, 280)
An explosive one-gap penetrating-type lineman who exhibits a great first step and has the ability to consistently create havoc inside. However, he might be better suited to make the move outside to the DE spot at the next level.
80. OLB Michael Morgan, USC (6-4, 220)
The physical skill set is there. This guy can run sideline to sideline and looks like a safety when asked to track the football. But he needs to continue adding more power/girth to his lower half and do a better job diagnosing his run/pass keys.
81. OLB K.J. Wright, Mississippi State (6-4, 250)
A great-looking specimen with the size and power to stack and shed at the point of attack. But it’s his impressive range and body control for a linebacker his size that makes him such an intriguing prospect.
82. WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami (6-3, 215)
Possesses great size for the position, and the farther he gets down the field, the tougher he is to cover. Could be one of the real breakout performers in 2010.
83. OL Marcus Cannon, TCU (6-5, 350)
A massive, thickly built offensive lineman who displays good power and knows how to anchor on contact. He does have a tendency to get too upright in pass protection off the edge, but he possesses the versatility to play right tackle and guard at the next level.
84. OLB Lawrence Wilson, Connecticut (6-1, 220)
He not only does a nice job making plays from sideline to sideline and closing on the football in space, he also has a knack for rushing the passer and finding a way to reach the quarterback.
Case Keenum will put up the numbers, but does he have the arm to make it at the next level?
85. QB Case Keenum, Houston (6-2, 210)
A smart, accurate passer who showcases good timing and anticipation in the pass game. Is a better athlete than given credit for, but he lacks elite arm strength and might be a bit limited at the next level.
86. FB Owen Marecic, Stanford (6-1, 243)
Is simply the best lead-blocking fullback in the nation. He showcases good short-area body control at the line and generates impressive power on contact. Looks like a future starting lead back at the next level.
87. WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, Iowa (6-1, 200)
Not only possesses an impressive combination of size and speed for the position, he also does a nice job remaining balanced in and out of his breaks and generating consistent separation for himself vs. man. One of the real dark horses to keep an eye on at the wide receiver spot.
88. OT Derek Sherrod, Mississippi State (6-6, 305)
A coordinated lineman who displays a good-looking frame and above-average range off the edge. Lacks ideal power at the point but understands angles and can reach/seal defenders off his frame in the run game.
89. ILB Casey Matthews, Oregon (6-2, 235)
Isn’t the greatest of athletes and will miss some tackles in space but showcases a nose for the ball and does a great job making plays inside the box.
90. RB Derrick Locke, Kentucky (5-9, 192)
Possesses some compactness to his frame and can outrun just about anyone in the open field. Gets up to speed quickly and has the wiggle to make defenders miss and explode into daylight.
91. LB Mike Mohamed, California (6-3, 238)
Not only exhibits good power when asked to attack downhill and sniff out the ball, he also showcases above-average range as a straight-line athlete. Displays a nose for the football and should end up being a real gem on special teams as well.
92. DT Anthony Gray, Southern Mississippi (6-0, 314)
One guy who really intrigued me during the 2009 season. Possessess a good first step for his size with the type of power to overwhelm on contact. Just needs to continue to polish his overall game.
93. DE Eddie Jones, Texas (6-3, 258)
An explosive edge rusher who has a great first step and can consistently drop his shoulder and flatten out around the corner. Has some upside as a 3-4 outside linebacker or nickel rusher.
94. RB Da’Rel Scott, Maryland (5-11, 200)
Struggled through 2009 because of injuries. However, he showcases a good feel inside, runs with a low pad level and has the burst to create in the open field. If he can prove he’s 100-percent healthy, he should have a big year.
AP
Cameron Jordan has the size and versatility to play all over the defensive line.
95. DL Cameron Jordan, California (6-4, 287)
Isn’t an explosive, quick-twitch guy off the edge, but he exhibits some suddenness/power on contact and uses his long arms well to fend off blocks. Possesses the versatility to play as a base end in a 4-3 or as a five-technique in a 3-4.
96. RB Brandon Saine, Ohio State (6-1, 217)
Runs with a nice combination of power and speed for his size and really matured as an interior runner last season
97. DE Bruce Miller, Central Florida (6-2 253)
Is a bit undersized, but plays bigger than his frame would indicate and could project as a potential 3-4-rush linebacker at the next level.
98. FS Quinton Carter, Oklahoma (6-1, 195)
Loves to throw his body around on all areas of the field and create collisions on the football. However, he struggles when asked to redirect in space and lacks ideal range vs. the pass game.
99. CB Davon House, New Mexico (6-0 190)
An intriguing size/speed corner who possesses good instincts down the field and has a real nose for the ball.
100. DT Kendrick Ellis, Hampton (6-5, 340)
A massive small-school interior lineman with the type of power and strength to potentially anchor inside as a 3-4 nose.
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Top 10 prospects for 2011A familiar name tops our list of seniors worth watching next season. Wes Bunting
Print This Send This May 10, 2010, 02:00 PM EST .25 Comments .With the 2010 NFL Draft wrapped up, it’s time to turn our attention to 2011 and take a look at some of the top prospects for next season. This week, I’ll be doing a six-part series identifying my top 100 senior prospects. Remember this is only a preliminary look. Here are my prospects ranked 1-10.
1. QB Jake Locker, Washington (6-3, 226)
A favorite of the National Football Post who spent most of the 2009 season ranked at the top the NFP’s Super 30. He’s a tough, strong-armed kid who can make all the throws as well as create with his feet once he breaks containment. I expect him to continue maturing in the intricacies of the pass game next season under Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian and make a legit run for the top overall spot in 2011. The only real concern I have is whether Locker fully loves the game of football or sees himself playing baseball at the next level.
AP
Ohio State DL Cameron Heyward
2. DL Cameron Heyward, Ohio State (6-5, 288)
There isn’t much this guy can’t do. He’s strong enough to anchor at the point of attack as both a 3-4 or 4-3 DE and also possesses the get-off burst to shoot gaps and penetrate inside. He will likely end up being on just about every team’s draft board and looks like a potential blue-chip defensive lineman in any scheme.
3. DE Adrian Clayborn, Iowa (6-3, 282)
Nebraska’s Ndamukong Suh and Oklahoma’s Gerald McCoy were the two most dominant defensive linemen I saw on tape last year. However, I could easily make the case that No. 3 was Iowa’s Adrian Clayborn. He’s not an explosive, quick-twitch edge rusher, but the guy plays with tremendous power, knows how to use his long arms and powerful hands to shed blocks and has a great feel for both the run and pass game. Projects as a very good three-down lineman in the NFL.
4. OT Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin (6-7, 325)
Carimi is a tall, long-armed offensive tackle who showcases a real mean streak in the run game and impressive overall range and athleticism vs. the pass. He still needs to tighten up his overall footwork off the edge as he has a tendency to get a bit overextended on his kick-slide, but the tools are there for him to be the top offensive tackle off the board next April.
5. OLB Von Miller, Texas A&M (6-2, 240)
You can say what you want about his size, but Miller was one of the most natural pass rushers I saw on tape last season. He not only was able to consistently fire off the edge and cleanly reach the corner, he also was so sudden and fluid even at top speed that he would routinely sidestep blocks and accelerate toward the quarterback. Looks like potential impact-caliber pass-rushing outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.
AP
North Carolina FS Deunta Williams
6. FS Deunta Williams, North Carolina (6-2, 210)
A great looking safety prospect who exhibits impressive range and power vs. both the run and pass game. However, it’s his fluidity, balance and change-of-direction skills for a safety of his size that have me so intrigued. Williams still has a tendency to gamble at times and will take himself out of some plays, but as a senior I really expect him to showcase more discipline in the deep half and mature into one of the nation’s top ball-hawks.
7. CB Prince Amukamara, Nebraska (6-1, 200)
He’s tall, he’s long, and most impressive of all, he has the body control to consistently win in press coverage. Amukamara looks natural getting his hands on receivers, re-routing them off the line and making it extremely tough for them to get into their routes. He has the size/strength to handle the bigger receivers he faces in the Big 12, plus the coordination/balance to also cleanly get out of his breaks and flip his hips vs. off man. Possesses a game tailor-made for the NFL
8. DT Marvin Austin, North Carolina (6-3, 305)
From a physical standpoint, this guy has it all. He’s a natural bender with a thick base who’s tough to move off the ball. Plus, he possesses a good first step for his size with the range to run sideline to sideline and track the football. However, he simply has not put it all together yet. He has yet to learn how to use his hands properly to consistently disengage from blocks and hasn’t become a legitimate big-time playmaker inside. He did come back for his senior season, so obviously Austin wants to make sure he’s as NFL-ready as he can be. It will be interesting to see how he develops from a technical standpoint this offseason.
9. NT Jerrell Powe, Ole Miss (6-2, 340)
I know this might be a little high for Powe, but I honestly think he projects as one of the best pure nose tackles in the class. He possesses a skill set similar to that of former Boston College standout B.J. Raji as he’s tough to move off the ball and showcases impressive athleticism for his size. Ultimately, I think he could be someone you might build your defense around inside at the next level.
10. DL Allen Bailey, Miami (6-4, 288)
After watching tape of Bailey in 2009, the guy flashes downright dominant ability. He’s explosive off the ball, is extremely powerful and strong for his size and has the kind of length to consistently fight his way off blocks. However, he’s still learning the position and hasn’t quite put it all together matching his technique with his physical ability. Nevertheless, he was productive in ’09, and if he continues to work hard and develop, the sky really is the limit for an athlete of his caliber.
11. DT Stephen Paea, Oregon State (6-1, 311)
A former rugby standout who plays with impressive leverage and unleashes one of the most compact and powerful punches in the nation. Plus, he possesses an explosive first step when asked to shoot gaps inside and is simply too strong and too sudden to be blocked one-on-one. Paea is still only starting to scratch the surface of his potential, but he looks like an intriguing three-technique option in the NFL.
AP
Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder looks poised for a big year.
12. QB Christian Ponder, Florida State (6-3, 227)
If it wasn’t for a late-season shoulder injury, who knows how early Ponder would have come off the board if he had entered the 2010 draft? However, I think it was best for him to go back to school, continue his development at the position and put his best foot forward as a senior. What I love about Ponder is that there’s absolutely no sense of entitlement with this kid. He’s a former three-start recruit who battled through adversity in his early years at Florida State, but because of his work ethic, intelligence and passion, he’s turned himself into one of the more NFL-ready passers in the nation and looks like a legit starting quarterback at the next level.
13. SS DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson (6-1, 210)
A tall, well-built safety who showcases impressive range and closing speed for an athlete of his dimensions in the deep half. What’s even more impressive are his instincts and ability to read and react quickly and instantly find the football. He finished the 2009 season with eight interceptions and possesses the kind of ball skills needed to mature into an impact-caliber defensive back.
14. OLB Bruce Carter, North Carolina (6-3, 230)
To say this guy is a gifted sideline-to-sideline athlete doesn’t do him justice. He absolutely flies around the field and has the range to consistently make plays in pursuit. However, what I like even more about his game is the power he exhibits on contact when asked to take on blocks as he does a nice job lowering his base and playing with proper leverage. He still has a tendency to take himself out of plays and will lose track of the football inside, but I expect him to improve his overall feel for the game with another year of development.
15. DE Greg Romeus, Pittsburgh (6-5, 270)
An athletic-looking, long-armed defensive end prospect who showcases an above-average first step and natural body control for his size. Possesses good power and stack-and-shed ability when asked to play the pass and is really tough to block for an extended period of time. Plus, he has the frame to play the run and projects as a very solid three-down option for an NFL defense.
16. OL Mike Pouncey, Florida (6-5, 320)
Mike is the twin brother of Steelers first-round pick Maurkice Pouncey and possesses a very similar skill set. He exhibits good overall girth and power at the point of attack when asked to anchor and does a nice job sliding his feet and staying on blocks through contact. However, the biggest difference between the two brothers’ play last season was the disparity in overall balance. Mike wasn’t nearly as clean when asked to redirect in space and had a tendency to get a bit over-extended lunging into blocks. Even so, if he can tighten up his footwork and become more patient inside, there’s no reason to think he can’t go somewhere in round one.
AP
Jerrod Johnson's development this year will be key.
17. QB Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M (6-5, 243)
Physically, his still set will make you say, “Wow.” He possesses a tall, strong-looking frame and has the ability to make all the throws, and when he breaks containment, watch out because he’s a load to bring down in the open field. However, what makes Johnson even more intriguing is his development under Texas A&M head coach Mike Sherman the past two season. Obviously, he still needs some work, but he really seemed to turn the corner the last two games of the 2009 season, and it will be interesting how far he’s come this offseason.
18. OT Nate Solder, Colorado (6-9, 305)
It’s tough to look past Solder’s physical measurables at this stage because he’s the kind of prospect who makes you wonder just how good he could be. Technically, he’s as raw as they come – which is to be expected from a former high school tight end. However, it’s obvious he has the range and athleticism needed to block on the edge at the next level and is another guy I can’t wait to evaluate next season to see how much development has taken place over the course of the year.
19. DT Drake Nevis, LSU (6-1, 292)
Nevis was far and away the most disruptive defensive lineman on the LSU roster last season, as his explosive first step and natural lower-body strength made him tough to block inside. Pair that with his non-stop motor and ability to consistently gain leverage on contact, and I don’t think it will be long until he starts to get the attention he deserves.
20. RB Noel Devine, West Virginia (5-8, 176)
This might be a little high for a 5-8, 176-pound back, but after looking over the rest of the senior class, there aren’t too many other guys I would rather have on my team. Devine is simply lightning in a bottle, with an ability to make a defender miss in a phone booth and instantly accelerate into daylight. Plus, he did a much better job being patient last year running between the tackles and grinding out tough yards inside. I still don’t think he will ever be an every-down back in the NFL, but he’s a game-changer who will add a dynamic big-play threat to whatever offense drafts him.
21. OC Kristofer O’Dowd, USC (6-5, 300)
A technically sound center who displays good bend and natural fluidity inside. Expect him to bounce back in a big way after an injury-riddled junior season.
AP
Schilling is a seasoned starter for the Michigan offensive line.
22. OG Stephen Schilling, Michigan (6-5, 304)
Was kicked inside to guard as a junior and possesses the athleticism and body control to get out to the second level in the run game as well as stick to blocks in pass protection.
23. OC Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State (6-3, 298)
A seasoned interior lineman who understands leverage, uses his hands well and does a nice job sticking to blocks through contact. Struggled a bit at times last year after making the move from guard to center but should be one of the top center prospects in the nation.
24. OL Jason Pinkston, Pittsburgh (6-4, 305)
A thick well-built offensive lineman who looks a lot broader and plays a lot stronger at the point than his body would indicate. I don’t think he has the range to play on the blind side in the NFL, but he projects as an intriguing potential guard prospect.
25. LB Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina (6-2, 235)
Showcases impressive closing speed once he locates the football and should make plenty of plays in pursuit in 2010. However, he isn’t the quickest to decipher information inside and is better suited to the outside at the next level.
26. OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College (6-7, 295)
Possesses a long, lean-looking body but has the athleticism to reach the corner and mirror in space. However, he needs to add more girth/strength to his overall frame since he struggles to handle any kind of power.
27. DE Sam Acho, Texas (6-3, 260)
A productive pass rusher who showcases a nice blend of burst, power and suddenness on contact. Uses his hands well to shed blocks and looks to be the next in line of potential highly drafted Texas pass rushers.
AP
North Carolina cornerback Kendric Burney knows how to make plays on the football.
28. CB Kendric Burney, North Carolina (5-9, 190)
Showcases not only good body control and balance when asked to turn and run but does a great job locating the ball and going up to make a play. Projects as a starting-caliber cornerback on the outside at the next level.
29. OL Orlando Franklin, Miami (6-7, 318)
He’ll make the move to offensive tackle this season after playing his first three years at left guard. Possesses impressive body control for a lineman his size with the power to overwhelm at the point of attack in the run game.
30. ILB Greg Jones, Michigan State (6-1, 224)
Not only displays impressive range and body control to slip blocks and make plays away from his frame, but he also does a nice job dropping his pad level and playing with natural leverage inside. Lacks ideal size but has a real feel for the game and is an absolute tackling machine.
31. OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State (6-2, 285)
Is a bit undersized for the position, but he’s a natural bender who plays with consistent leverage and the point of attack and looks fluid moving his feet through contact. Won’t fit into every NFL offense, but he’d be ideal in a zone-blocking scheme.
32. DE Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma (6-3, 260)
Exhibits impressive range when asked to run sideline to sideline and showcases a good first step off the edge. Plays with more power than given credit for and projects as a potential starting caliber 3-4 rush linebacker.
33. CB Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech (5-11, 190)
Possesses a nice-sized frame for the position and has the ability to be physical off the line and turn and run. Does a nice job finding the football quickly and looks like the next Virginia Tech defensive back to make his way into the NFL.
AP
Saunders has the size to win in both the run and pass game at the next level.
34. TE Weslye Saunders, South Carolina (6-5, 280)
A massive tight end prospect who runs surprisingly well for his size and showcases the body control to go up and get the football. Plus, he has the frame to handle himself with his hand on the ground and looks like a very capable “on the line Y” at the next level.
35. OG John Moffitt, Wisconsin (6-5, 320)
A thickly built interior lineman who does a nice job creating space in the run game, and once he gets his hands on you, the battle is over.
36. FS Chris Culliver, South Carolina (6-0, 190)
Showcases an impressive blend of body control, balance and ball skills when asked to play in man coverage, as well as the range to ball-hawk in the deep half. Just needs to continue to improve his ability to quickly read and react.
37. NT Phil Taylor, Baylor (6-4, 355)
Don’t expect him to look comfortable playing in space vs. Big 12 offenses. However, he’s a powerful two-gapping-type nose who can eat up blocks and anchor at the point of attack. Could end up being a much better pro than he’s been in college.
38. DL Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson (6-4, 310)
Possesses a great-looking frame with a really impressive first step for his size. He will struggle to consistently find the football inside and shed blocks, but he offers the versatility to play in 4-3 and 3-4 defenses.
39. RB Kendall Hunter, Oklahoma State (5-8, 200)
Showcases impressive patience, vision and cutback ability in between the tackles with the body control to make a man miss at the drop of a hat. Might be a bit undersized, but he runs with a low pad level. If he can stay healthy, Hunter looks poised for a big year.
40. CB Curtis Brown, Texas (6-0,180)
Displays a real feel for the pass game and does a nice job being physical with receivers down the field and undercutting routes. Is still a bit raw with his footwork and has a tendency to open up his hips too early, but he looks comfortable in man.
41. DE Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue (6-4, 263)
Isn’t the most explosive athlete off the edge, but he plays with a great motor, understands how to use his hands and knows how to slip blocks. Expect him to be one of the most efficient pass rushers in the nation next season.
42. OT Joseph Barksdale, LSU (6-5, 315)
A gifted athlete with good range and fluidity off the edge. Showcases natural bend in his lower half and can anchor at the point, but he needs to do a better job maintaining balance and sticking to blocks through contact.
AP
James Rodgers has the ability to be dynamic in the open field at the next level.
43. WR James Rodgers, Oregon State (5-7, 188)
Lacks ideal size, but he’s very sudden and explosive in the open field and projects as a potential impact-caliber slot guy at the next level.
44. DE Cliff Matthews, South Carolina (6-4, 250)
A productive SEC pass rusher who possesses the kind of get-off burst needed to threaten the edge at the next level. However, it’s his impressive body control that allows him to consistently maintain balance when flattening out around the corner.
45. ILB Nate Irving, North Carolina State (6-1, 235)
In my opinion, he was, without a doubt, one of the best linebackers I saw on tape in 2008. If he can regain his form from two seasons ago after missing last year because of injury, he should really make a move up draft boards.
46. OT Clint Boling, Georgia (6-5, 310)
A gifted athlete for his size who exhibits good range off the edge in pass protection, but he struggles to consistently keep his base down and isn’t much of a factor as an in-line run guy.
47. OL Benjamin Ijalana, Villanova (6-4, 320)
A downright dominant small-school lineman who has the makings to move himself up in the early part of the draft with another strong season.
48. CB Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson (5-11, 190)
A natural cover man who showcases good balance when asked to turn and run and knows how to find the football down the field. In my opinion, he was the best cornerback on Clemson last season – yes, better than Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor.
49. QB Pat Devlin, Delaware (6-4, 220)
The one senior quarterback to keep an eye on. Struggled with turnovers as a junior last season but has the skill set to set the world on fire at the I-AA level and make a strong push up draft boards.
AP
Royster is a natural inside runner who knows how to break tackles and move the chains.
50. RB Evan Royster, Penn State (6-1, 213)
Exhibits good power and patience inside and has a real feel for running between the tackles. However, he plays at one speed and looks to me like a poor man’s Matt Forte.
51. ILB Kelvin Sheppard, LSU (6-3, 239)
Possesses good size and power for the position and is surprisingly comfortable in space vs. the pass game. Displays a nose for the ball and will likely be one of the top tacklers again in the SEC.
52. WR Greg Little, North Carolina (6-3, 214)
He isn’t a burner by any stretch, but he knows how to separate underneath and is a load to bring down after the catch. Is one of the more intriguing wideouts in next year’s class.
53. WR Austin Pettis, Boise State (6-3, 201)
A long, lean receiver who possesses great concentration and body control when asked to go up and make a play on the football. Lacks elite burst or suddenness out of his breaks but projects as a potential solid No 2-type option.
54. DT Colby Whitlock, Texas Tech (6-2, 287)
He isn’t the biggest of defensive tackles but displays a good first step, uses his hands well to fight his way through contact and has a motor that never stops. A guy who knows how to cause havoc inside.
55. FB Stanley Havili, USC (6-1, 230)
One of the better fullback prospects to come along in years. He can reach defenders off his frame as a lead blocker, looks comfortable catching the ball out of the backfield and knows how to create with the ball in his hands.
56. DB Ras-I Dowling, Virginia (6-2, 200)
A talented defensive back who does a nice job playing the football down the field. However, he consistently gets too upright in his drop and struggles to quickly break down and cleanly change directions. Looks more like a free safety prospect than a corner.
AP
Bynes has the range and power to consistently bring ball carriers down on all levels of the field.
57. LB Josh Bynes, Auburn (6-2, 239)
Another well-built SEC linebacker with good power and closing speed inside. However, he simply isn’t as instinctive as the other linebackers who have already made our list.
58. DE Jabaal Sheard, Pittsburgh (6-4, 260)
Plays with impressive natural bend and balance when flattering out around the corner and does a great job making himself small when accelerating toward the quarterback. Has been overshadowed by teammate Greg Romeus but is a heck of a player in his own right.
59. S Ahmad Black, Florida (5-9, 190)
A veteran presence in the Florida secondary who might lack great size/speed numbers, but he redirects well in space and knows how to make plays on all areas of the field.
60. S Jaiquawn Jarrett, Temple (6-2, 195)
Don’t sleep on this Temple standout. He not only possesses the size and power to tackle in the run game, he’s also extremely fluid for his size when asked to change directions and close on the football vs. the pass.
61. RB Allen Bradford, USC (5-11, 235)
Showcases good balance and patience running inside with the power to consistently break tackles and accelerate into the open field. Could be one of the draft’s fastest-rising running backs with a strong season.
62. OL Jarriel King, South Carolina (6-5, 310)
A guy I really loved off tape after the 2008 season and thought had the makings of one of the better offensive linemen in the nation. However, he was very inconsistent last season and has some medical concerns that could worry NFL teams.
63. DL Christian Ballard, Iowa (6-5, 285)
Possesses one of the most explosive first steps of any defensive tackle in the country and makes a living in opponents’ backfields. Has a frame built to play the DE position at the next level, but could be a hot commodity as a potential five-technique come April.
64. DE Brooks Reed, Arizona (6-3, 255)
Struggled his way through an injury-riddled junior season, but when this guy is healthy, he possesses the burst and motor to be a force off the edge.
65. TE D.J. Williams, Arkansas (6-2, 250)
A versatile pass catcher who can line up all over the offense and make plays down the seam. Exhibits impressive athleticism for a guy his size and has the natural power to break tackles and create with the ball in his hands.
66. DE Ricky Elmore, Arizona (6-5, 260)
Isn’t quite the same caliber of athlete as teammate Brooks Reed, but he has a big frame with some suddenness/power on contact and is absolutely relentless in pursuit.
67. OT Rob McGill, Louisiana Tech (6-6, 310)
A tall, long-armed blocker who looks comfortable in pass protection and displays the range to consistently reach the edge. Isn’t getting a ton of attention right now, but could be in store for a big rise up draft boards with another strong year.
AP
DeMarco Murray looks like an ideal third down back at the next level.
68. RB DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma (6-0, 214)
Possesses the straight-line speed to be dynamic in the open field and also catches the ball well out of the backfield. But he runs too upright to consistently be effective between the tackles and looks to me like a third-down option.
69. DT Adrian Taylor, Oklahoma (6-4, 292)
Would be ranked a lot higher if it weren’t for his many medical concerns. He’s a long, powerful lineman with the ability to be disruptive inside, but it’s anyone guess how effective he can be in 2010 coming off a severe leg injury.
70. TE Mike McNeill, Nebraska (6-4, 240)
A savvy pass catcher who has a real feel for finding soft spots underneath and is also a better athlete than given credit for.
71. OG Justin Boren, Ohio State (6-3, 315)
Isn’t the greatest of lateral athletes inside but plays with a good pad level, keeps his base down and has the lower body strength to anchor and win at the point in the run game.
72. RB Graig Cooper, Miami (6-0, 205)
It’s a shame he tore his ACL in Miami’s bowl game last season because before the injury, I thought he was easily the nation’s second-best senior running back. It will be interesting to see if he’s healthy and ready to go in September.
73. CB Charles Brown, North Carolina (5-10, 205)
Possesses good strength and overall physicality in press coverage and does a nice job rerouting wideouts off the line. Just needs to continue working on the finer points of the game and do a better job turning and locating the football.
74. FB Charles Clay, Tulsa (6-3, 230)
There aren’t too many things this guy can’t do. He runs with power/shiftiness inside, can pluck the football out of the backfield and shows a willingness to block as a lead guy. Looks like a future “do-it-all” type of fullback at the next level.
75. DE Pernell McPhee, Mississippi State (6-4, 285)
A strong, stout lineman who exhibits an impressive first step and overall body control for his size. He’s still trying to figure out the SEC game after coming from the junior college ranks but has an intriguing NFL-caliber skill set.
76. TE Luke Stocker, Tennessee (6-6, 253)
Possesses great size for the position and has the ability to use his big frame to box defenders out underneath as well as win at the point in the run game.
77. DE Pierre Allen, Nebraska (6-5, 265)
An intriguing size/speed guy who possesses some natural pass rush ability, but it will be interesting to see how he does this year without Ndamukong Suh eating up blocks inside.
78. SS Duke Ihenacho, San Jose State (6-1, 210)
Lacks great straight-line speed, but he’s a natural athlete who reads and reacts quickly and always seems to flying around the football.
79. DL Ladi Ajiboye, South Carolina (6-1, 280)
An explosive one-gap penetrating-type lineman who exhibits a great first step and has the ability to consistently create havoc inside. However, he might be better suited to make the move outside to the DE spot at the next level.
80. OLB Michael Morgan, USC (6-4, 220)
The physical skill set is there. This guy can run sideline to sideline and looks like a safety when asked to track the football. But he needs to continue adding more power/girth to his lower half and do a better job diagnosing his run/pass keys.
81. OLB K.J. Wright, Mississippi State (6-4, 250)
A great-looking specimen with the size and power to stack and shed at the point of attack. But it’s his impressive range and body control for a linebacker his size that makes him such an intriguing prospect.
82. WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami (6-3, 215)
Possesses great size for the position, and the farther he gets down the field, the tougher he is to cover. Could be one of the real breakout performers in 2010.
83. OL Marcus Cannon, TCU (6-5, 350)
A massive, thickly built offensive lineman who displays good power and knows how to anchor on contact. He does have a tendency to get too upright in pass protection off the edge, but he possesses the versatility to play right tackle and guard at the next level.
84. OLB Lawrence Wilson, Connecticut (6-1, 220)
He not only does a nice job making plays from sideline to sideline and closing on the football in space, he also has a knack for rushing the passer and finding a way to reach the quarterback.
Case Keenum will put up the numbers, but does he have the arm to make it at the next level?
85. QB Case Keenum, Houston (6-2, 210)
A smart, accurate passer who showcases good timing and anticipation in the pass game. Is a better athlete than given credit for, but he lacks elite arm strength and might be a bit limited at the next level.
86. FB Owen Marecic, Stanford (6-1, 243)
Is simply the best lead-blocking fullback in the nation. He showcases good short-area body control at the line and generates impressive power on contact. Looks like a future starting lead back at the next level.
87. WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, Iowa (6-1, 200)
Not only possesses an impressive combination of size and speed for the position, he also does a nice job remaining balanced in and out of his breaks and generating consistent separation for himself vs. man. One of the real dark horses to keep an eye on at the wide receiver spot.
88. OT Derek Sherrod, Mississippi State (6-6, 305)
A coordinated lineman who displays a good-looking frame and above-average range off the edge. Lacks ideal power at the point but understands angles and can reach/seal defenders off his frame in the run game.
89. ILB Casey Matthews, Oregon (6-2, 235)
Isn’t the greatest of athletes and will miss some tackles in space but showcases a nose for the ball and does a great job making plays inside the box.
90. RB Derrick Locke, Kentucky (5-9, 192)
Possesses some compactness to his frame and can outrun just about anyone in the open field. Gets up to speed quickly and has the wiggle to make defenders miss and explode into daylight.
91. LB Mike Mohamed, California (6-3, 238)
Not only exhibits good power when asked to attack downhill and sniff out the ball, he also showcases above-average range as a straight-line athlete. Displays a nose for the football and should end up being a real gem on special teams as well.
92. DT Anthony Gray, Southern Mississippi (6-0, 314)
One guy who really intrigued me during the 2009 season. Possessess a good first step for his size with the type of power to overwhelm on contact. Just needs to continue to polish his overall game.
93. DE Eddie Jones, Texas (6-3, 258)
An explosive edge rusher who has a great first step and can consistently drop his shoulder and flatten out around the corner. Has some upside as a 3-4 outside linebacker or nickel rusher.
94. RB Da’Rel Scott, Maryland (5-11, 200)
Struggled through 2009 because of injuries. However, he showcases a good feel inside, runs with a low pad level and has the burst to create in the open field. If he can prove he’s 100-percent healthy, he should have a big year.
AP
Cameron Jordan has the size and versatility to play all over the defensive line.
95. DL Cameron Jordan, California (6-4, 287)
Isn’t an explosive, quick-twitch guy off the edge, but he exhibits some suddenness/power on contact and uses his long arms well to fend off blocks. Possesses the versatility to play as a base end in a 4-3 or as a five-technique in a 3-4.
96. RB Brandon Saine, Ohio State (6-1, 217)
Runs with a nice combination of power and speed for his size and really matured as an interior runner last season
97. DE Bruce Miller, Central Florida (6-2 253)
Is a bit undersized, but plays bigger than his frame would indicate and could project as a potential 3-4-rush linebacker at the next level.
98. FS Quinton Carter, Oklahoma (6-1, 195)
Loves to throw his body around on all areas of the field and create collisions on the football. However, he struggles when asked to redirect in space and lacks ideal range vs. the pass game.
99. CB Davon House, New Mexico (6-0 190)
An intriguing size/speed corner who possesses good instincts down the field and has a real nose for the ball.
100. DT Kendrick Ellis, Hampton (6-5, 340)
A massive small-school interior lineman with the type of power and strength to potentially anchor inside as a 3-4 nose.
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DAL @ GB
