What do you FIRST look for in prospects at various positions?

[gtb1943]

For me with a QB its always what is between the ears; personality and intelligence and the ability to quickly process
With a RB its vision; and the ability to take a pounding
for a WR its about his hands
for a TE its can he do both blocking and catching
For a OL its about quickness
For a DL its about power
LB its about being able to sense the way a play is going
For a CB can he sniff the QBs intentions
for a S can he see the whole field and react quickly

IF each prospect has that, then I look at other features
if they do not I move on

 

[beware_d-ware]

QB - arm strength and long speed
RB - size and long speed
TE - size and long speed, is he any good at blocking.
WR - long speed and change of direction
OT - change of direction. Anchor is also huge, but agility is the dealbreaker.
OG - change of direction. Small, quick Gs usually struggle early but can grow stronger. Cement-footed Gs can't grow quicker.
C - play recognition.

DE - first-step speed, and change of direction is also a dealbreaker.
DT - first step and change of direction. Same deal as tackles and guards.
LB - play recognition
CB - long speed and change of direction.
S - play recognition

 

[Nova]

Mental Makeup is included for all positions for me, but other than that...

QB: Snaps -- Number of snaps is a great indicator of future success

RB: Size -- I like three down backs to keep the defense honest. Size will rule out a lot of guys that won't fit the mold (but not all). 5'10" - 6'1", 210-220, but composition is also pretty important.

WR: Route Running

TE: Probably blocking, but honestly I have no idea.

OL: School/Program/Conference -- It's a pedigree thing. Not an all encompassing requirement, but I just feel some environments produce safer picks.

DL: School/Program/Conference -- Ditto with the added element that rotational depth is important at DT. Because you'll have to take a flyer on a later round guy, it's better to get someone from the BIG10 or SEC that has close to NFL experience already.

LB: Instincts

CB: Economy of motion -- basically evaluating how do these guys move when they trail, slide, whatever. Speed won't compensate for wasted motions.

S: Range -- But honestly Safety is the hardest position to scout IMO. Malik Hookers range was insane at Ohio State. He's only a serviceable NFL safety.