Alpha Football

Monday, January 18, 2010

Early NFL Mock Draft Top 10

1. Sam Bradford- QB- OKLA- Rams
All the talk about Suh makes sense. He is a far more sure thing than Bradford, considering his injury history, but franchise QB's are harder to find than stud DT's. With all the depth at DT this year ,the likelihood that they can still get a 1rst round grade DT at the top of the second in this draft, and the return of former 1rst rounder Adam Carriker( injured all last year) at DT ;Bradford makes the most sense. If he's healthy it's the smart thing to do .We think he will be and will wow people with his touch and accuracy in his workouts.

2, Ndamukong Suh- DT - Nebraska- Lions
I really think there smartest move would be to protect the new franchise QB Stafford with Russel Okung. Jeff Backus is just a serviceable LT, but he would be an above average RT. It would also allow them to move Gosder Cherilus inside to( Peterman is a tad below average there) RG ,since he has shown he does not have the feet to play RT currently. That's 3 positions upgraded at once. However Suh is a beast , they have a huge need at DT, and Backus is still serviceable. If any of this years LT prospects were as ranked as high as Joe Thomas was when he was drafted then I think they would take the LT, but not even Okung grades out that high right now. Suh is the surer thing and a great pick regardless.

3. Gerald McCoy - DT- OKLA- Buccaneers
If the rams do take Suh ,then I expect McCoy to go to Detroit. In this scenario he falls to Tampa Bay. You have to get pressure and penetration with your front 4 to run the Tampa 2, and their defense improved late in the season when they they went back to it. Starting DT's Chris Hovan and Ryan Sims will be 32 and 30 to start the season. They combined for only one and a half sacks last year. Not only would McCoy be a huge upgrade there, but his inside pressure would help there emerging DE's.

4. Russell Okong- OT- Okla.St. - Redskins
If ever a team needed O-lineman its the redskins. Mike Shannahan likes to run the zone blocking scheme . He can then get by with smaller , smarter, and quicker( i.e. cheaper and later drafted) lineman. However he has always preferred a high level LT. From HOFer Gary Zimmerman to Ryan Clady , Shannahan has shown he values these guys. Since Okung reminds of us Clady , the redskins desperately need young O-lineman, and the possible retirement of Chris Samuels, this makes the most sense of any pick in the 1rst round. If Bradford is still there when Washington picks all redskins fans should pray that Shannahan is the guy really making the decisions. Bradford would not survive behind this line, but Daniel Snyder might not be "football smart" enough to know that if he's the guy calling the shots. Add that Jason Campbell( or any other QB) deserves the chance to see what they could do with a good O-line and just pray Shanny gets his way.

5. Eric Berry - SS- Tennessee-Chiefs
A rare player and a perfect fit for the chiefs defense if he is still available when they pick. Scott Pioli( former patriots personnell guru) makes the decisions here. Ed Reed is well regarded in New England. Since Berry reminds us of Ed Reed I am betting he will remind Pioli of him too. If they are stuck paying a pick this high I think they will want the surest thing this draft has to offer,and that's Eric Berry.Okung would be thiee dream scenario, but I don't see any other OT being worth this pick right now.

6. Jimmy Clausen- QB- Notre Dame- Seahawks
They could go LT,as Walter Jones return is still a bit questionable, but one of them( basically any OT not named Okung isn't worth this pick right now) would have to really step up in the pre-draft process to justify this high a pick. Otherwise they are over drafting .Its a decent bet incoming head coach Pete Carrolls USC LT Charles Brown will be there in the 2nd. Matt Hasselbeck is nearing the end of his career.Clausen was highly recruited by Carroll out of high school and he has played him every year. He knows what he can do and this time he can get him. If Clausen isn't under 6"2" (and his attitude doesn't piss off teams) I think he goes in the top 10 and this is the most likely spot for him. Derrick Morgan would fit as well as they desperately need pass rush help.

7. Dez Bryant- WR- Okla. ST.- Browns
I think they will trade down if they can, but teams will be wary of whats looking to be the last big rookie pool , unless a new collective bargaining agreement gets done before the draft. If Berry, McCoy or Suh fell this far I think they would sprint to the podium ,but that's unlikely right now. This offense needs playmakers badly. The trade of Braylon Edwardss, the possible holdout/trade of Josh Cribbs, and the faint chance of them taking any RB this high makes Bryant the most likely pick. He's clearly the # 1 receiver right now and this may not even be a reach. The other huge need is a 3-4 rush OLB. Unless one really wows everyone in the pre-draft process I don't see any of them being worth this pick right now. With Morgan clearly being a better fit in a 4-3 at present, then Bryant is their best choice. Joe Haden would be good as well, but isn't as big a need.

8. Anthony Davis-OT -Rutgers-Raiders
You never know what ridiculous thing Al Davis is going to do in the draft , but he loves high upside guys, and Anthony Davis has it. He will also probably work out well and Al loves that. Add that the raiders desperately need a LT and this makes "raider sense" . That basically means they will probably overdraft a guy with great talent and ability , but question marks on/off the field. They could also go after Dunlap or Pierre-Paul, as both will probably workout great, and have a huge upside. All 3 have big question marks though, which screams raiders. Bruce Campbell and Taylor Mys are both dark horses, but they have a lot less good tape than Davis.

9. Trent Williams- OT-OKLA- Bills
We really think this would be a mistake but a lot of people think this guy can play LT in the NFL right now. Even if he can't ,he will probably still be a reliable( if unspectacular) starter at RT or a guard position. My advice would be to take Bruce Campbell, or even Brian Bulaga if they are going to reach for a LT, but trading down and taking one makes more sense. If Clausen or Bradford( they would definitely grab Sam) fall here they might be the pick , or they could actually trade up for either. Derrick Morgan would be nice if they stick to a 4-3 , but there is talk of them going 3-4 next year.

10. Joe Haden- CB-FLA-Broncos
They really need Dez Bryant, with the likely trade of Brandon Marshall, but Haden is a steal this late. Champ Bailey will be in his 12th season next year and a move to safety might come in couple of years , although he still plays CB at a high level now. Andre Goodman( 31 years old himself) is serviceable but if Haden is there( and Bryants gone) they have to take him. It would be the best player available, immediately strengthen their defense, and be a strong move for the future.

Monday, January 4, 2010

2010 NFL draft 1rst round selection order as of the end of the regular season

1. St. Louis - 1-15 2.Detroit - 2-14 3. Tampa Bay - 3-13 4. Washington - 4-12 5. Kansas City - 4-12 6. Seattle - 5-11 7. Cleveland - 5-11 8. Oakland - 5-11 9. Buffalo - 6-10 10/11. (tie coin flip) Denver -(from the Bears) 7-9 10/11. (tie coin flip)JacksonVille - 7-9 12. Miami - 7-9 13. San Francisco - 8-8 14. Seattle (from the Broncos) - 8-8 15. N.Y. Giants - 8-8 16/17.(tie coin flip) Tennessee - 8-8 16/17.(tie con flip) San Fran (from the Panthers)- 8-8 18. Pittsburgh - 9-7 19/20.(tie coin flip) Atlanta - 9-7 19/20.(tie coin flip) Houston - 9-7 playoff teams- order yet to be determined 21. New York Jets - 9-7 22. Baltimore - 9-7 23. Arizona - 10-6 24. Cincinnati - 10-6 25. New England - 10-6 26. Green Bay - 11-5 27. Philadelphia - 11-5 28. Dallas - 11-5 29. Minnesota - 12-4 30. San Diego - 13-3 31. New Orleans - 13-3 32. Indianapolis - 14-2

2010 Early NFL draft prospects 41-50

41. Rob Gronkowski-TE-AZ- The only reason he is this low is he missed the season with a serious injury. If Gresham and Gronkowski were both healthy it would be a toss up for who was drafted first. A big strong guy who can run over the opposition or explode into the open field after the catch. Great hands and explodes out of his break. A willing blocker and usually gets the job done, but he needs more coaching in this area, as his angles aren't always sound . Good long speed and quick in the short area.His potential is great but back injuries are a huge red flag.A team with a lot of extra picks (and a need at TE like NE) might pull the trigger in the 2nd on him ,if he checks out medically. -NFL comparison- Jason Witten- DALL

42. Corey Wootton- DE- NWestern. - A tall 4-3 end with the frame to get big enough and be a 3-4 end if he adds a little more weight , but some think him a 3-4 OLB candidate, . I he really is 6 ft. "7" there is little chance of him being a 3-4 LB, as I have heard some people say , and he doesn't look quick enough on film anyway. Came back from a major knee injury( torn ACL) last year and that's the only reason I think he drops into the 2nd round. Also had a neck injury as a freshman, and an ankle in jury this year, but returned to form after all 3 .A team leader and a smart player who reads & reacts well, who can hold the POA well 1 v 1, although he could hold the point even better if he bulked up some more. Better at trying to shoot gaps and go around his blocker. Needs to keep his pads low with more consistency and doesn't do as well against the double team. Multiple moves rushing the passer on the outside, but nothing special in his first step and closing speed . If he does pack on some more mass and become a 3-4 end he would also be able to move inside on passing downs.Has a good motor everywhere, but doesn't look like a superstar type.I think he will be a productive player in the NFL if used right .The only question is at what position and in what scheme. -NFL comparison- Justin Smith- SF

43. Brandon Graham- MICH.-DE/OLB-Led the nation in tackles for a loss and spends a lot of time in the opposing backfield. A heady player who reads and reacts right away, and who knows his responsibilities. Great motor and a low center of gravity. Combined with his excellent use of leverage and great hands, he controls his man right off the bat. Stacks and sheds well and can hold the Point. Brings a lot of pressure as a pass rusher and he will keep coming till the whistle blows regardless. If no ones open he can get hustle sacks because he won't give up on a play. Will dominate weaker opponents when rushing , but can get locked out against better blockers. Might be able to play strong side 3-4 OLB as well .An overachiever who gets the most out of what he has and could probably play either 4-3 end. Team leader with a strong work ethic who has played a lot against top competition. Lack of height could hurt him with some teams, but he is a really good football player.
NFL comparison- LaMarr Woodley- PITT

44. Kyle Wilson- CB- Boise St. - Smooth and fluid in his backpedal and transition. Flips his hips as quick as anyone in this draft class and breaks on the ball quickly. A man to man cover corner with good speed and the cockiness that implies. Uses the sideline well as an extra defender. Locates the ball quickly in zone , but can get caught peeking into the backfield too much, and will occasionally bite on fakes trying to jump the route. Can get out-physicalied by bigger receivers, but is aggressive in bump and run. Run support improved this year but still isn't aggressive enough in this are, and needs a lot of improvement as a tackler.Excellent special teamer and provides return ability as well. -NFL comparison- Mike Jenkins- DALL

45. Everson Griffen-DE-Southern Cal- If he really is the 280 he's listed at he could be a 3-4 weakside end, but on tape he looks fast enough to be a 3-4 OLB. If he's closer to 260 that might be where he ends up. Either way he can be a 4-3 end. Motor is inconsistent and he will probably be a workout warrior type. Those guys are usually also your boom or bust types as well, so I wouldn't take him before the 2nd round , but some team that loves these guys will probably take him in the 1rst . When he's on he's a force, but he takes plays off. Was a situational pass rusher as a sophomore and could start out there in the pros, but the sky's the limit if he has the heart and dedication to reach for it. Strong enough to stack and shed in the run game, but doesn't always play with leverage. If he's beat he tends give up too quick in the run or passing game. Has the speed to chase backside but doesn't always do it. In the end if he works out the way I think he will ,and with his upside being so high , someone will probably take him in round 1. Highly unlikely that he would slip past the raiders in round 2. His inconsistent play & motor knock him down to a mid 2nd rounder in our eyes though.- NFL comparison-Shaun Ellis-NYJ

46.Vladimir DuCasse-G- UMASS- Some will think he can play LT in the NFL someday , and that may get him over drafted, but he is too slow footed to ever do so at a high level. While he can't play LT , he does have intriguing athleticism for such a big man. He could maybe play RT soon , and probably either guard spot already. Strong with long arms and plays to the whistle, but he could be nastier. Still raw recognizing stunts and his technique is inconsistent. Needs to get used to a 3 point stance. Immigrated to the US 7 years ago and football is still relatively new to him compared to most top prospects, who start playing in grade school. He's an unfinished product but his upside is high,and if he goes to the right team he could be a steal in the second round, but don't expect a lot of immediate results unless he plays guard. -NFL comparison- Vernon Carey- MIA

47. Perrish Cox-CB- OKLA ST.- A tall press cover corner who's recent discipline issues probably knocked him out of the 1rst round, despite his ideal measuraables. Tall and long armed , but has inconsistent hands for the pick. Willing in run support, but his technique taking on blocks and tackling needs work.Has return value and looks to have good speed, but isn't as fluid coming out of the break as he could be . Mostly it looks like his technique in all areas needs work. That's usually a sign of bad coaching or being hard to coach.Has good instincts and reads coverage & QB's well in zone . Right now he's getting by on athletic ability and in some cases instincts ,but at the next level he will have to be coached up to be a reliable starter.Overall he is just inconsistent. Teams have to ask themselves if it can be coached into him and if he really wants it too. Was considered a burgeoning leader until his suspension for his final bowl game for missing curfew, but that is a big red flag and his timing could not have been worse. Barring anymore red flags some NFL team will probably take him in the 2nd round with the belief that he will realize his potential. He could get back in the 1rst with a great off season in this CB class, but the pre- draft process will be crucial to him repairing his image and anymore slip ups could lead to him being a 3rd rounder.-NFL comparison- Vontae Davis- MIA

48. George Selvie DE/OLB - S. FLA.- A quick first step and surprisingly strong for someone so lean. Has faced a lot of double teams in college, and his production on the stat sheet has declined 2 years running, but he still makes his presence felt.Has put on weight every year in college ,and played pretty well when they played a higher level of competition, but still needs to get bigger. A burst around the edge and a bull rush seem to be his primary pass rush moves, so he will need to be coached up some.His best options would probably be to go to a 3-4 team and learn to be a rush linebacker,but it will take time for him to adjust. Probably just a situational pass rusher and special teamer as a rookie. Has improved against the run, but still needs more sand in his pants to hold the point of attack, although he battles all the way . Plays fierce and has a top notch motor. Is a leader with a strong work ethic and the type of player who keeps improving till he hits his ceiling, but that ceiling may not be far away as some others. - Kameron Wimbley- CLEV

49.Nate Allen - FS- S. FLA.- A smart player who always seems to be around the ball ,and a student of the game who has earned a leadership role. Rarely gets beat, but if he does he recovers quickly. Physical in coverage and run support, but could wrap up better at times, although he is a punishing hitter. Can be a bit overaggressive at times, but makes a lot of big plays with that aggression. Could play either safety postion, but he's the kind of guy you want being your last line of defense. Can cover RB's and TE's but lacks the long speed to run with burner receivers down field. Great read and recognition skills and is a ballhawk who can jump routes. Generally takes good angles and breaks on the ball with a will.-NFL comparison - Tanard Jackson- TB

50. Tim Tebow-QB- FLA.-Will be successful somehow in the NFL, even it's not as a QB. If he goes to the right team ,with the patience to use him to run the wildcat, play some H-Back, and basically have a Kordell Stewart-Slash-type role for awhile he may actually develop into a starting NFL QB. Right now unless you run the spread option offense he wouldn't have lot of chance to succeed as a QB in the NFL,and no ones body could take the type of hits he would receive in that offense for long. Has a long delivery, a inconsistent release, needs to learn to make more than 2 reads , and only average accuracy currently. With the NFL having smaller windows to throw in he needs a lot of coaching in a NFL offense, with a NFL QB coach. Is big strong fast athletic QB with the heart of champion. A team leader , great person,and a winner in college. Strong runner with a TE"s body but the hits he takes in the NFL will be a lot harder. His arm strength is questionable becuase of how he throws. When he winds up and sets his feet he shows a strong arm, but will his arm be as strong with a normal delivery? Despite all the negatives he's the type of guy who will work as hard as he needs to succeed somewhere. At the very least I think he will be a Chris Cooley type H-back, although a better blocker, with the abilty to run some interesting sub packages . At best he could be Donovan McNabb with time and coaching. My best description would be if DR. Moreau used the DNA of Donovan Mcnabb , with a splash of Randall Cunningham( for the delivery), and a smidgen of Kordell Stewart for the versatility, to make a baby in futuristic lab somewhere: and he turned out to be a left handed White guy?- he would be Tim Tebow. - NFL comparison- Donovan McNabbb- PHIL

Sunday, December 27, 2009

2010 early NFL draft prospects 31-40

31. Demaryius Thomas-WR- Ga. Tech.- A big strong fierce competitor who knows how to use his size in all phases of the game. Runs good routes in his limited offense, but needs to show more of the route tree in the pre-draft process. Was in a triple option offense and mostly caught short passes, although his explosion after the catch is one of his best features.Runs by or through tacklers and can go the distance.Good top speed and quick out of his breaks.If he runs a sub 4.5 forty expect him to go in the 1rst round.Has concentration lapses catching the ball, and that more than anything else will hurt him some.A physical willing blocker and is the best blocking WR in this draft class.Still a tad raw but his upside is the best of all the WR's. Could end up the 2nd WR taken with strong workouts.-NFL comparison- Terrell Owens- Buffalo Bills

32. Jonathan Dwyer- RB- GA Tech- A thick strong runner with a burst. Has been productive since he was a true freshman and runs with aggression. If he runs his 40 in the low 4.4's he the best chance of a RB going in the top 10 this year. He flashed big play abilty in the running and passing games, but needs work on his route running. Average hands and needs to improve in pass protection some.Has a nose for the goal line, but has relatively few carries( which means less wear and tear on his tires) compared to most top college backs. Coming from a option offense could hurt him some and he might not contribute a lot in every type offense early as a rookie. - NFL comparison- Johnathan Stewart- CAR

33. John Asomoah- G- Ill.- A smart player with his head on a swivel in pass pro, but he could use his hand punch better. Sinks his hips then delivers a blow in the run game.Kicks and slides well enough to maybe play RT at the next level, although I am not sure how long his arms are. A tough run blocker who stays under control and rarely makes mistakes. Gets off the ball quick and into his man in line, and excels at the 2nd level. Gets set quickly in pass pro and is hard to drive back or get past. A good guy off the field with the work ethic and motor to be a long term starter .His upside isn't as great as some, but is already more polished than many NFL lineman. Looks smart and quick enough to maybe play center. - NFL comparison- Davin Joseph- TB

34. Jared Odrick-DT- PENN ST.- Whether he ends up as a 4-3 DTs or a 3-4 end, his improvement this season was dramatic enough to make him a 1rst rounder most years. With this being such a deep draft( especially at his position) we believe its possible some team will get an excellent value in the 2nd. Leverage was his best skill coming into this season, and he did nothing to detract from that belief as a senior. Improved drastically as a pass rusher this year ,with a wider variety of moves added to his already impressive bull rush, despite lacking elite quickness off the snap. Stout against the double team and strong in-line in college, but not big enough to play the Nose in the NFL yet, but might be able to if he packed on more size. Won't be making plays all over the field due to his lack of foot speed, but has long arms and can redirect a lot of passes if he used them more. A better football player than athlete when he's on, but could need some monitoring to get the most out of his abilty. Motor was inconsistent prior to this year, and while he's improved it as as a senior , some NFL teams will worry he will get lazy once he gets a big payday.Probably best a 3-4 strongside DE right now, and a veteran team with strong leaders like Pittsburgh would probably be his best fit.-NFL comparison- Aaron Smith- PITT

35. Jahvid Best-RB- CAL- A small back who has has home-run ability on every play. Durability questions haunt him and he may be another guy who shouldn't be a 300 carry back unless he packs on more size. Hits the hole , makes one cut, and runs to daylight.Excellent receiver with return abilty. I have seen him compared to Reggie Bush , but he may not have the same speed Bush does. He also doesn't have the same patience and vision problems Bush does either .Suffered a serious concussion, but it was due to a freakish hit ,not fragility. Not strong between the tackles and he needs to pack on more muscle to be able to hold up. Could probably hold up between the tackles better than Bush , but like Bush he's a guy the defense has to game plan against. - NFL comparison- Brian Westbrook-PHI>

36. Colt McCoy-QB- Ridiculous college numbers are often discounted by NFL scouts , especially if they are derived from any version of the spread offense. The past struggles of Alex Smith and Vince Young won't help his case ,even though both have had some success lately, but college QB's coming from the shotgun usually need more time than usual to develop. So a team with a veteran QB that they still might think( that doesn't mean they really should all still be played) is playable( Seattle, Carolina, STL. , Minn. come to mind quick) that will need a QB in a year or 2 is more likely to take McCoy. McCoy is smaller than the other two , but a similar type athlete. Very accurate but only has an average arm. Did play at a big time program with experience against top notch opposition, and was a winner against that top competition. How tall he really is( listed at 6"3") will be a major factor in his draft status. If's he's 6"1" or shorter he probably won't go in the top 50 picks. If he is at least 6"2" he's a good bet to go in the top 40. If he really is 6"3" it's likely he goes in the 1rst round and he could sneak into the top 15.- NFL comparison- Jeff Garcia- Retired.

37. Maurkice Pouncey- C/G- FLA- A big strong athletic pivot man that is used to the shotgun. Great base and good balance define him. Sticks with his blocks in the pass and run game with the head to make all the line calls and plays to the whistle. Word is he's coming out if he gets at least a 2nd round grade. Most years I would think he would sneak into the bottom of the 1rst round, but with so many players coming out early some lucky team should get a long term starter in the second. Long arms and has filled out a lot this year in terms of size. Comes from a winning program and is used to playing in big games against strong competition. Can also play guard if needed.Gets by on athleticism and toughness right now. Needs to be coached up as his technique is lacking in every area but leverage. With so many teams going to a 3-4, and centers facing huge NT's, a guy with Pouncey's strength and frame is highly valuable at center. -NFL comparison- Andre Gurode- DALL

38. Charles Brown-OT- Southern Cal- A rangy athletic LT prospect that needs to put on more muscle. Good feet and balance but lacks the strength to consistently enforce his will on stronger defenders. More of a steer and wall off technician in the run game, but he appears aggressive enough. Slides well and can beat the rusher to the edge but is relegated to just trying to push them past the pocket. Good hand placement but needs a stronger hand punch. Basically he needs more strength and size or he will get run over by some of the stronger defenders in the NFL. Comes from a big time program and played well there. Former TE with great upside that just needs more time at OT and more sand in his pants to be a starter in the pros. Might be a good fit in a zone blocking scheme or in certain ( not a power running team right now) offenses while he gets bigger.Works hard to get to the 2nd level in the run game.-NFL comparison- DeBrickshaw Ferguson- NYJ

39. Aurthur Jones-DT -Syracuse- A torn pectoral muscle in the pre-season, followed by a torn meniscus to end his season, has knocked him down some. Otherwise I would expect him to be a top 20 pick. A fierce run stopper who plays with good leverage ,and who plays the NT position with more strength than his size would indicate. Needs more pass rush moves but his bull rush is effective. Strong tackler with a fierce demeanor, but he is inconsistent play to play. Team leader and a good locker room guy. Has faced a lot of double teams and still remained productive. How he looks in postseason workouts will ultimately decide his drafty status. Could go anywhere between the 1rst and 3rd rounds, but we believe a player with his character will bounce back quickly. Probably won't be a NT in the NFL right away unless he packs on more muscle, but could be a good strong side 3-4 DE or 4-3 DT right away- NFL comparison- Jay Ratliff -DALL

40. Ricky Sapp- OLB/ DE- Clemson- Make no mistake, he gets a grade this high with the expectation that he will move to 3-4 OLB full time. When he got the chance to play that position some, he showed a lot of promise, but it's still a small sample size. A high level fluid athlete with the build to add 10-15 more pounds of muscle and still maintain his speed. A quick first step and good closing speed on the QB.Can chase downplays from the backside, but doesn't hold the point of attack very well yet. If he goes to a 4-3 team he will only be a situational pass rusher till he gets more sand in his pants. Looked like he wasn't all the way back from 08 knee injury last year, but was still productive. -NFL comparison- Jason Taylor- MIA

Saturday, December 26, 2009

NFL Top 5 offensive prospects at each position

Here is an early preview of the top 5 at each position for the upcoming NFL draft. Not everyone has declared yet, and injuries are prevalent, but this is how we see it now. * denotes a player considered a injury risk, and that definitely affects how they are ranked currently.Right next to them is a NFL player is the NFL player I think they most resemble if they are a hit.

QB- Lockers decision to go back to school helps Clausen , but especially McCoy a lot. Some QB needy team may reach for Colt earlier than they would have now.

1. Sam Bradford- OKLA *- Phillip Rivers- SD
2. Jimmy Clausen- N. Dame - Drew Brees - NO
3. Colt McCoy- Texas - Jeff Garcia - Retired
4. Tony Pike- Cinc. - (Stronger armed) Alex Smith- SF
5. Tim Tebow- Fla. - Donavan McNabb - PHIL.

RB- Unless one of the big backs is a lot faster than they look on film, don't expect anybody to go in the top 10 this year. Dwyer is the only one that might surprise people on the stopwatch to go high.

1. CJ Spiller- Clemson- Reggie Bush- NO
2. Jonathan Dwyer - Ga. Tech. - Johnathan Stewart - CAR
3. Jahvid Best - Cal. -Brian Westbrook- PHI.
4. Ryan Mathews- Fresno St. - Frank Gore- SF
5.-tie- Toby Gerhart- Stanford - Mike Allstott- retired
5.-tie-Dexter McCluster- Darren Sproles- SD/Warrick Dunn- TB

WR- Unless someone runs a really fast 40 time I don't expect anyone to go in the top 10 here either. There is no Calvin Johnson(once a decade prospect) type that teams will be salivating over in this draft.

1. Dez Bryant- Okla. St.- Miles Austin- DALL
2. Golden Tate- N. Dame - Steve Smith - CAR
3. Demaryius Thomas- Ga. Tech. - Terrell Owens
4. Damian Williams- Southern Cal- Steve Smith- NYG
5.-tie- Arrellious Benn- Ill.- Dwayne Bowe- KC
5.-tie- Mardy Gilyard- CINC.- Patrick Crayton- DALL

TE- 40 times often change the entire pecking order of this group drastically , and complete TE's( i.e. they can block and be an effective receiver) are getting hard to find these days.More teams are looking for that receiving option that can create matchup problems for opposing defenses.With the 2 biggets prospects coming off season long injuries,and the lileyhood that a team can get a good TE later in the draft, it's likely thatat most 1 of these guys will go in the 1rst round . A deep postion with good value though.

1. Jermain Gresham- OKLA *- Antonio Gates- SD
2. Rob Gronkowski- * Jason Witten - DALL
3.-tie- Anthony McCoy- Southern Cal- John Carlson- SEA
3.-tie- Dennis Pitta- Owen Daniels- HOU
4. Ed Dickson- Ore.- Bo Scaife- TENN
5. Aaron Hernandez- Fla.- Dallas Clark - INDY

OT- A talented group with a lot of guys who are more projectable, than there are current elite prospects. A lot of depth with the possibility of as many as 6 1rst rounders . The big question is which ones can actually protect the QB's blindside?

1. Russell Okung- Okla. St.- Ryan Clady- DEN
2. Bruce Campbell- Maryland- Jason Peters- PHIL
3. Anthony Davis- Rutgers- Leonard Davis- DALL
tie-4. Bryan Bulaga- Iowa- Jordan Gross- CAR
tie-4. Trent Williams- OKLA- Eric Winston-HOU
5. Charles Brown- Southern Cal- DeBrickshaw Ferguson- NYJ

G- An under appreciated position that usually has a lot of College tackles who aren't seen as having the feet to play outside in the NFL, merging inside.

1. Mile Iupati- Idaho- Shawn Andrews- PHIL
2. Jon Asamoah- Ill.- Davin Joseph- TB
3. Vladimir Ducasse- Umass- Vernon Carey- MIA
4.-tie- Justin Boren- Ohio St.- Eric Wood- BUFF
4.-tie- Mitch Petrus- ARK.-Jake Bell- STL
5.-tie- Zane Beadles- UTAH- Reggie Wells- AZ
5.-tie- Mike Johnson- Ala.- Kyle Kosier- DALL

C- The QB's of the O-line have seen a renewed appreciation in the draft in recent years. Often versatile players than can also play guard, but there is no Nick Mangold or even Alex Mack in this years class. The senior bowl is usually the best chance for these guys to rise up draft boards, but the possible junior entry's are the best chance for someone to sneak into the bottom of the 1rst round .

1. Maurkice Pouncey- Fla.- Andre Gurode- DALL
2. Kristopher O'Dowd- Southern Cal-Matt Birk- BALT
3. Matt Tenant- BC- Casey Rabach- WASH
4. JD Walton - Baylor- Jake Grove-MIA
5. Ryan Pugh - Auburn- Max Unger- SEA

Saturday, December 12, 2009

2010 early NFL draft prospects 21-30

21. Golden Tate- WR - N. Dame- If Weis does leave Tate is likely to go as well, and Weis getting the axe seems to be a foregone conclusion. A talented separator with a passion for the game. Good speed and just always seems open if he gets off the line quickly. NFL DB's will give him even more trouble getting off the line, and are a lot faster, but he is the type a guy that will work at his craft. Explosive in the open field and a valuable returner as well. Great ball skills and he will battle for the catch. At the very least he's a threat in the slot as a # 3 receiver and return man to start his career. In time he looks like he could be a field stretching game breaker, but his route running needs polish. - NFL comparison- Steve Smith - Car. Panthers

22. Brian Price-DT-UCLA- A stout run stuffer and penetrator with a good motor. Gets off the ball in a hurry and has a low center of gravity. Uses his hands well ,and splits some double teams ,ripping through into the backfield. Could probably play strong-side 3-4 end as well. Might even play NT if he got bigger, or in a scheme like Dallas or San Diego run. In a normal year he would probably be a top 10 pick, but the depth at his position( and the draft overall ) this year knocks him down some.Good rip and bull rush, but he needs more pass rush moves. NFL comparison- Sedrick Ellis-NO Saints

23. Brian Bulaga- OT-IOWA- Another year in school would be his best bet, as he has not been a LT for long and doesn't have quite the experience you want as a blindside protector right now. Plus I feel with one more year in school he is a possible top 5 pick. However with so many young guys trying to come out before a stricter rookie cap is put in place , and the fact that he plays a premium position where people often overdraft players ,makes it likely he will enter the draft this year. Not as big or strong as you would like yet, but has the frame to pack on 20-30 pounds of muscle easily. Strong enough to manhandle smaller college DE's, but bigger( i.e NFL DE's) might give him trouble right now, although he does show flashes of a mean streak. More effective in line than at the 2nd level in the run game. Is a natural knee bender that plays with good leverage and his technique improved every game this year. Handles the fastest speed rushers in the pass game well, but can get overpowered at times. Looks more like a NFL RT currently, but like a guy who might grow into a NFL LT with time, if his arms are long enough. He isn't a super high upside pick , but he has a low floor. Biggest question mark is a thyroid condition that caused him to miss some time. His best bet is to go a team that doesn't need him to play LT right away. His bowl matchup against Derrick Morgan will tell us a lot more about his immediate prospects as a LT. The kind of guy that should at least be an immediate starter at RT or LG,but could end up a franchise LT with more time at the position and NFL coaching. if he realy -NFL comparison- Jordan Gross- CAR. Panthers

24. Mike Iupati-G-Idaho- Has a high ceiling and low floor that will probably get him drafted higher than another guard (Asomoah)who is a more finished product right now. Huge strong guy that gets the most out of that size driving off the line at the snap, but he does tend to get a bit grabby outside. Angry mauler that O-line coaches love with a violent hand punch . Strong in-line in the run or passing games but sometimes struggles to hit his man down field, despite moving well for such a big man. When his technique is sound he is dominant, but even when its not he's pretty good. Long arms and mostly battles whistle to whistle .Looks like he could play RT at a high level as well.Once he's coached up he could be a perennial all-pro .Hasn't played against top competition regularly, but a strong showing in the senior bowl should get him into the first round. -NFL comparison- Shawn Andrews- PHIL

25. Carlos Dunlap-DE- Potential is off the charts and is still a bit raw, but this guy can do it all when he puts it together. Has the measurables to play DE in a 4-3 0r 3-4, or be a DT if he bulks up some.Big, fast, tall, long arms, and a quick first step.You would like him to have more starts ,but he's probably coming out, and this kind of potential will have NFL teams salivating . Could be a boom or bust because he is still raw and very young.Workout warrior type that some teams( raiders?) will be all over.- NFL comparison- Julius Peppers- CAR

26. Trent Williams- OT- OKLA.- Good , but not great at anything. Recovers well when beaten ,and has played multiple positions along the O-line, but it will be lot harder to recover from his mistakes in the NFL. Smart and is a team leader on the field .Not your prototypical left or right tackle, but he seems to get the job done most of the time, especially in the running game. Doesn't have the elite feet to be an top LT, but his aren't bad and he is very athletic. Lacks the strength to be an elite RT but he finishes like one. Despite all that he will battle every play till the whistle blows, and there are a lot worse players starting at both positions in the NFL right now. Looks to be a solid 10 year starter in the league at either postion in the NFL. Probably a good RT , but not a franchise LT right now, although he could play there in the right system. If he gets stronger and maintains his work ethic he could become a Jamall Brown Type, but it could take awhile. The position is so valuable ( and needed) though that he may be over drafted . At the very least he should be a productive starter somewhere on the line.-NFL comparison- Eric Winston-HOU Texas

27. Brandon Spikes ILB- Fla.- His elite instincts make him look faster than he is, but he will never be a sideline to sideline ILB. The area he does cover he will cover well ,and he has a knack for making big plays.Excellent in zone coverage and blitzing, but not fast enough to play man-to-man. Big enough to play ILB in a 4-3 or either spot in a 3-4. Leader of the defense and a solid tackler.Very productive at a big time program.The well publicized incident where he stuck his hand in RB's face mask doesn't seem to have hurt him to much, but his 40 time is absolutely key to being drafted in the first round.-NFL comparison- James Farrior -Pitt. Steelers.

28. Patrick Robinson- CB- Fla. St. - A decent sized fast corner with no short term memory and super quick feet. Has a good burst to the ball when its in front of him, but could use some work transitioning out of his pedal. Willing in run support but not a great tackler yet, although he is aggressive and usually gets the job done. Team leader on the field but has had some problems off off it. If if he picks it he can take it to the house, and looks like he could play some receiver if given the chance. Has a burst to the ball and makeup speed. Has some return experience and should contribute on many special team right away. Depending on the pre-draft process he could end up the 2nd corner taken or the the 5th.- NFL comparison- ( on defense, not as a returner) Leodis McKelvin -BUFF

29. Dan Williams -DT -Tennesee- A stout run stuffer with low center of gravity and a thick trunk. Some teams may even see him as a 3-4 NT , which can only help his draft status, but he is better in a 4-3 at DT right now ,and he would have to be more consistent staying low to hold the point there in the NFL. Could possibly play strong side 3-4 end as well. Quick for a big man, and actually has some decent pass rush moves when he uses them, but too often just resorts to bullrushing. He comes off the ball with a will and has faced constant double teams in a tough conference. Inconsistent technique and either tires easily , or just plays with bad leverage too often for an elite talent. It may be that as a 2 down player( ex. 3-4 NT) he wouldn't tire as fast,but to be an elite DT you need to be productive on passing downs.We don't question his effort so much as his abilty to play at a high level when tired. Work ethic whispers must be monitored-NFL comparison- B J Raji- GB

30. Navarro Bowman-OLB-Penn st.- You watch him on tape and it looks like he is everywhere on the field. That's because he is. Flows to the ball smoothly. Scrapes and runs around most blocks. Not the best stack and shed guy yet, but he scrapes well and brings it to the ball carrier with a thump. Good speed and is improving in coverage even if he is still a bit stiff, but his diagnostic skills are still a lot better vs the run. Some off the field questions too. Probably a 4-3 guy only, unless he gets bigger. NFL comparison- Ernie Simms- Detroit Lions