Combine Review

Winners

Possible 3-4 OLB's: Brian Orakpo and Everette Brown cemented themselves in the top half of the first round, Connor Barwin may have pushed himself into the first, Clay Matthews ran very well, and although Aaron Maybin ran an average 40 time, he put up some solid numbers in other drills.

Lydon Murtha, OT/Nebraska: He was on top of the Offensive Linemen group in virtually every category in Indy, running the best official 40 time by .14 seconds and moving like a TE in drills. After his performance in the East/West Shrine Game, this could boost his stock into that first 3 round conversation.

Sherrod Martin, CB/Troy: In a very disappointing day for CB's overall, Sherrod Martin definitely impressed me the most in ball drills, was very fluid flipping his hips and ran some of the best times in quickness drills. If he checked out physically (he's had a ton of injury problems), he could be a steal for someone. 

Jared Cook, TE/South Carolina: He had freakish numbers, from his 40 time (4.5) to his vertical (41") and arm length (35 3/4"). Cook could be the 2nd tight end taken after his performance here.

Non-FBS Prospects: D-III Jason Boltus set a QB record with 26 reps of 225 lbs, Lardarius Webb and Johnny Knox ran some great 40 times, and Javarris Williams showed up in great shape and posted some of the best RB numbers across the board. Some other small school guys that boosted their stock were OT Joel Bell, DT Chris Baker, and DE/LB Lawrence Sidbury.

Losers

I don't like to focus on the negatives, so I'll just name two groups of players that disappointed overall:

Linebacker/Safety "tweeners": Kevin Ellison, Kevin Akins, and Nic Harris all ran around 4.8. I do believe Harris will be a solid LB in the NFL and Ellison could maybe make it on special teams, but they didn't do anything to help themselves this week.

Cornerbacks: The 40 times were terrible overall, with only 2 players (Lardarius Webb and Vontae Davis) breaking 4.50 and none getting into the 4.3's. The excuse of slow turf won't work either, as safeties ran relatively well and WR's ran excellent times (4 in the 4.3's and many more in the 4.4's). The whole group performed pretty poorly in ball drills and Malcolm Jenkins, thought to be the consensus #1 CB, may have ran himself into being a FS with a time in the mid-4.5's.

Player Interview: Ben Owens

Ben Owens is a productive, athletic, and versatile linebacker from Arkansas State. He was a highly sought after recruit coming out of high school as a threat on both sides of the ball (he also played RB). He could be a high riser as draft day gets closer, and expects to really impress on his pro day on March 31st.


Ben Owens' Career Highlights:
6th-best recruit in Arkansas by SuperPrep ('05)
Special Teams Standout ('05)
34 tackles; 2 sacks; 1 interception as reserve MLB ('06)
1st Career interception vs. Auburn ('06)
96 tackles; 3 TFL ('07)
Honorable Mention All-Sun Belt Conference ('07)
Named to Nagurski & Butkus Award Watch Lists ('08)
Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week ('08)
-vs. Texas A&M, 7 tackles; 1 sack; 1 int; 1 fr
87 tackles; 5 TFL; 2 sacks; 2 interceptions ('08)
2nd Team All-Sun Belt Conference ('08)

"I have tremendous upside and a great attitude"
-Ben Owens



JP: What is your current height/weight, and 40 time?

Owens: 6'2" 240, 4.5.


JP: How are you getting physically prepared for the draft?

Owens: I'm training at the All Star Sports facility in Deland, Florida. There were many players here from different parts of the south and the east coast. Some of the schools were: Miami, Florida State, Florida, UCF, UAB, Georgia, Colorado, Lehigh, Boston College, UMass, Hampton, LSU, Iowa State, Concordia, Iona, Delaware State. I'm working on my strength, my acceleration and speed, and my hip flexion. Those are some of the areas I have focused on.


JP: Who is the best RB you've ever played against?

Owens: When we played Texas in 2007, Jamaal Charles.


JP: Are there any players in the NFL you model your game after, or would compare yourself to?

Owens: Patrick Willis, his game is built around his speed and athleticism. He uses those attributes to get him to the ball quicker.


JP: What do you feel are your strengths as a player?

Owens: My intelligence, my speed and athletic ability, my versatility, my willingness to learn, and my attitude.


JP: What are some areas you think you could improve in your game?

Owens: Being more physical ALL the time, playing more consistent.


JP: What kind of experience do you have on special teams, and how do you think you could help a team in that role?

Owens: I have 4 years of experience on special teams. I started on them ever since I was a true freshman. The last two seasons I started on Punt and Kickoff. I love to play them.


JP: What is the greatest moment of your athletic career?

Owens: Winning the conference title. Coming back in the second half from 22 point deficit to beat Memphis, our rival.


JP: Why should a team take you on April 25th/26th?

Owens: Because I'm a hard worker. I take care of my business on and off the field. I feel I have tremendous upside and a great attitude. Also, I learn quickly and I love getting better.


JP: Thanks for your time

Player Interview: Antonio Appleby

Antonio Appleby is a big inside linebacker that has a nose for the ball. Part of the reason he's so appealing to NFL teams right now is the growing popularity of the 3-4 defense. He was a starting ILB for 3 years at Virginia. With him, you get a big, run stuffing ILB who also has enough speed to possibly play on the outside. I listed him as a 4-star performer in this year's Texas vs. the Nation Game and he had a key fumble recovery playing MLB in a 4-3. I expect him to be taken on the 2nd day of the draft. Talking to him you really get the feeling he's an intelligent guy who will do everything he can to reach his great potential.

"I’m a player but I know I stand for more than that"

-Antonio Appleby

Some of his career highlights:

6th-Best recruit in VA by SuperPrep & Scout ('05)

2 starts, led true freshmen in tackles ('05)

10 tackles in Music City Bowl ('05)

Started all 12 games at ILB ('06)

Second on team with 68 tackles ('06)

Started all 13 games at ILB ('07)

60 tackles, 6 TFL, 2 sacks ('07)

Started 11/12 games at ILB ('08)

Career high 72 tackles, 7.5 TFL ('08)

JP: What is your current height/weight?

AA: I’m 6’3” and 245. I should bench in the 20’s.

JP: How are you getting physically prepared for the draft?

AA: Right now I’m training in Orlando with Tom Shaw at the Wide World of Sports, just doing speed and conditioning drills.

JP: Are there any players in the NFL you would compare yourself to, or model your game after?

AA: I don’t really model my game after anyone. The person I would relate most to would be James Farrior of the Steelers. We play the same position and in the same defense. I see a lot of my game correlating to how he plays.

JP: What do you feel are your strengths as a player?

AA: Running the defense, communicating, and getting everybody on the same page. Stopping the run, doing what needs to be done as a Middle Linebacker.

JP: What area of your game do you think could use the most improvement?

AA: I’m working on just making more plays in the passing game, working on my drops, man to man coverage, anything correlating to the passing game.

JP: Would you feel comfortable as an MLB in a 4-3 defense, or would you rather stay as an ILB in a 3-4?

AA: With me I really feel comfortable in either defense. I got a little bit of experience with that at the Texas vs. Nation game in El Paso in January. I’m basically versed in the 3-4 but I feel like I could probably play MLB or WLB in a 4-3, football is football.

JP: Who is the best RB you’ve ever gone against?

AA: I get asked that question a lot, and it’s kind of hard for me to say because I’ve faced so many great running backs. If I had to pick an overall best player I’ve played against it would be Calvin Johnson. He was super gifted, made incredible plays and he was a gamer.

JP: Who are some of your teammates that you think have a shot of playing at the next level?

AA: This year we have a long list of guys. Eugene Monroe, Clint Sintim, Kevin Ogletree, John Phillips, Cedric Peerman. Athletically Chris Cook, hopefully Jameel Sewell will get a chance, Will Barker. There’s a long list and we have a pretty good amount of players.

JP: What is the greatest moment of your athletic career?

AA: My freshman year we played Florida St. We beat them and they were ranked 3 or 4 in the nation. It was a great experience I’ll never forget. The power went out for a little while; it was just a freak game.

JP: What’s your favorite NFL team?

AA: I don’t really have a favorite NFL team; I just like watching great defenses. The Ravens, the Steelers, Titans, just watching great defenses take over a quarter of a game and just dominate. I’m really more of a fan of great defenses that just dominate.

JP: What do you like to do in your free time?

AA: We as football players work so hard in my free time, I just kick back and relax, watch TV, do a little reading, video games, anything to get my mind off the grind.

JP: Why should a team take you on April 25^th/26^th?

AA: I feel as though I bring a certain level of professionalism to any organization that picks me up. I’m a player but I know I stand for more than that. I represent my family, the organization, the city, and myself. They know they have a man that takes his job seriously, and a person who is not looked upon as just a football player, I’m looked at as a role model and a leader in the community. It’s more than just football.

JP: Thanks for your time.

AA: Thank you

Player Interview: Mike Butler

Mike Butler is a versatile, strong interior OL (he can play RG, LG, and C) that is not getting the kind of attention that a guy with his talent should. He's a tough, smart player and an extremely hard worker. He will work out at Hofstra's Pro Day.

Career Highlights:

JuCo standout ('05-'06)

All MAAC (2007)

No sacks allowed (2008)

Held John Faletoese to 0 tackles/0 sacks (2008)

Iona's Kevin Fales Most Valuable Lineman (2008)

East Coast Bowl Nominee (2008)

"I pride myself on trying to win every rep of every play of every game"   

-Mike Butler

JP: What is your current height/weight, 40 time, and 225 bench reps? 

MB: I am 6' 2, 303 lbs. I run a 4.96 forty time. My 225lb bench press rep max is 37 times.

JP: How are you getting physically prepared for your Pro Day?

MB: I have been training at All Star Sports Training down in Paisley Florida. There are about 20 guys here training for the combine and individual pro days. In addition there are also some guys here training that have been playing in the NFL and are currently in the process of hooking on with different teams.

JP: Who is the best DL you've ever faced?

MB: The best Defensive Lineman I have ever faced would have to be John Faletoese from Cal-Davis. He had great speed off the ball and was a very technically sound player.

JP: What NFL player would you compare yourself to?

MB: I would compare myself to Chris Snee from the Giants. I think we are similar in size and the way we play. Hes a great player who always does whatever he has to, to get the job done.

JP: What do you feel are your strengths as a player?

MB: In my opinion my strengths as a player are that I am a strong, aggressive player who is always fighting to win. I pride myself on trying to win every rep of every play of every game. I feel I am a hard nosed player who will do whatever it takes to get the job done and my motor is always running.

JP: What areas in your game do you think you could improve?

MB: Every football player always has room to improve no matter what level they are playing. I feel that an area I could use improvement is, depending more on my technique as a lineman rather then my strength.

JP: Who are some of your teammates that you think have a chance to play at the next level?

MB: A player that i think has a chance of playing professional ball is Wide receiver Tim Mastrino. I think he was one of, if not the best wide receiver in division 1-AA (FCS) football. You can always depend on him to catch the ball and make a play. If I am blocking and I see the pass is thrown to Tim I know I need to get ready to go down field and make a block.

JP: What's your favorite NFL team?

MB: My favorite team in the NFL is the New York Giants. Growing up in my house my father raised us Giant fans.

JP: What do you like to do in your free time?

MB: In my spare time off I really just like spending time with my family and friends.

JP: Do you have any plans after football?

MB: I'm not quite sure what I plan on doing after football yet, I love the game so much and am not trying to look past playing it yet. However I would love to open up some kind of training facility of my own and be some kind of strength coach or trainer, because that is something I have a great interest in.

JP: What are some goals you have set for yourself in the near future?

MB: I am taking this all one step at a time. My first goal I have to conquer is to kill my pro day. After that the pieces will fall in place. I am willing to do whatever it takes to play for an NFL team.

JP: Why should a team take you on April 25th/26th?

MB: Because I am a coachable offensive lineman who will do whatever I have to. I will never half ass anything and will bring my best effort day in and day out.

JP: Thanks for your time, good luck.

MB: Thank you very much for the opportunity!

Player Interview: John Halman

John Halman is a wide receiver from Concordia College, an NAIA school in Selma, Alabama. He lit up the competition last year, and really stepped up his play in big games. In two games against FCS Schools in 2008 (UT-Martin and Texas Southern), John had 6 receptions for 232 yards (38.7 yards per catch) and 3 touchdowns. He is an early entrant into the 2009 NFL Draft, and will be working out at the Troy University Pro Day on March 5th. John Halman is a guy we should definitely keep an eye on in the future. Below are some of his 2008 season highlights:

225+ receiving yards vs. Edward G. Waters College

2 rec; 123 yards; 2 TD vs. Texas Southern

4 rec; 109 yards; 1 TD (83-yards) vs. UT-Martin

47 & 33-yard TD receptions vs. Bethel

900+ receiving yards (10 games)

40+ receptions

Handled kicking duties all season

"I don't compare myself to anybody, I want to be compared as John Halman only"

-John Halman

JP: What is your current height/weight, 40 time, and any other measurables like bench, shuttle, 3 cone, vert, etc?

JH: My current height is 6'2" my weight is 217. 40 time is a 4.44, short shuttle is a 4.1, 3 cone is a 6.9, and 225 reps is 13.

JP: How are you getting physically prepared for the draft?

JH: I am training at All Star Sports Training in Paisley,FL.

JP: What made you decide to enter the draft early?

JH: The main reasons were because of my age and I had a very good season.

JP: Are there any players in the NFL you try to model your game after, and who would you compare yourself to?

JH: I try to model my game after Jerry Rice because I think he was a complete player. I don't compare myself to anybody, I want to be compared as John Halman only.

JP:What do you feel like your strengths are as a player?

JH: My strengths as a player would have to be my size, speed, hands, and just the drive to become a better player.

JP: What areas do you think you need to improve?

JH: I think everyone has room for improvement. I also think that every reciever can improve on blocking, so I would say blocking.

JP: Which one of your teammates do you think has a shot at playing somewhere on the next level? 

My quarterback!! Ken Johnson, In my eyes the best QB in college football hands down. Great athlete! Whatever team gives him a shot is going to get a complete QB.

JP: What kind of experience do you have on special teams, and do you think you could help a team in that role?

JH: Most of my special teams experience would be kicking. Kickoff and field goals mainly. I also did punt attack and kickoff return. I think I could definitely help out a team in all these fields.

JP: What's your favorite NFL team?

JH: The team that selects me is my favorite team. However, I grew up a fan of the Cleveland Browns. My mom and dad are from Ohio, and I have a lot of family in Ohio.

JP: What do you like to do in your free time?

JH: In my free time I love to chill out and be with family and friends.


JP: Are there any other sports you have played?

JH: In high school I played soccer, baseball, and ran track.

JP: Why should a team take you on April 25th/26th?
 

JH: A team should select me because they will get a player who could play a significant role in making their franchise better. Also, they will have a player who is completely and totally dedicated, getting better, and helping the Team win!

JP: If the NFL for some reason doesn't work out, would you want to play in the CFL or any other professional football leagues?

JH: I wouldn't mind playing in another league at all I just want to play football. The NFL is what I want most though because it is the pinnacle of football.

JP: Thanks for your time, and good luck with everything.

JH: Thank you for the opportunity! What you're doing is a great thing for all athletes.

2008 Highlights (Turn the sound down before you play it, and go to YouTube to watch in High Definition)

Player Interview: Dre'Mail Hardin

I recently had the chance to interview Dre’Mail Hardin, a talented prospect from Stillman College, a Division II school in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He transferred there from Mississippi State after his freshman season and has had an extremely productive career, notching 16 interceptions in 32 games. Just talking to him you get the feeling he’s going to be something special at the next level.

"I have the goal of trying to be the best to ever play the game"

-Dre'Mail Hardin

Some awards Hardin has won:
First Team All SIAC (2008)

Honorable Mention All-American (2008)
First-Team Preseason All-SIAC (2008)
First-Team All-SIAC (2007)

SIAC Player of the Year Finalist (2007)

D2Football.com All-America (2007)


JP: What is your current height/weight/40 time?

DH: My height, weight is 6’ ¾” 206; I ran a 4.6 at my pro day last year, and I recently benched 225 19 or 20 times. I’m going to work out March 8th at the Alabama pro day with Sammie Lee Hill.


JP: How are you getting physically prepared for the draft?

DH: I’m training at Velocity Sports in Memphis, TN with Rob Weatherly. I’m working out with Phillip from Memphis, Rob, he played in the AFL, Jeremy LeSueur out of Michigan, he was a 3rd rounder a couple years back, and a LB from Miami, he’s been out a year.


JP: Are there any players in the NFL you would compare yourself to?

DH: Brian Dawkins. I love the way Ed Reed plays but I play more like Brian Dawkins.


JP: What are your strengths as a player?

DH: Being physical, hitting, tackling, good angles, I like to think of myself as a ballhawk.


JP: What areas do you think you could improve?

DH: Being on an island. Sometimes I played a little corner at Stillman. Right now I’m working on playing 10 yards back, out of the box. In college I did a lot of tackling.


JP: Who is the best WR you’ve ever faced?

DH: It has to be Jacoby Jones, or Chad Jackson, who played at Hoover when I was in high school.


JP: Who are some of your teammates that you think have a shot at playing in the NFL?

DH: Quinn Porter he’s been a TB, he’ll probably be more like a WR or H-Back in the league. Darren Mack, he’s a linebacker. Oliver Wells, a DB, he’s pretty good. He’s coming along. He played as a true freshman last year.


JP: What kind of experience do you have on special teams, and do you think you could help a team in that role?

DH: Definitely, I blocked 6 or 7 kicks last year; I think I played a big role on special teams. I definitely could help a team there and I love playing special teams. A lot of people have a tendency to take those off but I loved those. I played on every special team in college.


JP: What is the greatest moment of your athletic career?

DH: It would probably have to be HS when we beat County High 17-0, it was our archrival and they had Le’Ron McClain. I had some good times at Stillman. I returned a 102-yard interception against Miles College my Junior Year. We played Lane in St. Louis and I had 2 interceptions and double-digit tackles, I returned a blocked FG for 100 yards and at the end of the game I had a game saving interception. High school was probably the best one though because I played both ways, I played WR and TB. I returned a kick for 40 or 50 yards against County High. In college I didn’t play any offense.


JP: What’s your favorite NFL team?

DH: Oakland Raiders, they always had some of my favorite players. I kind of picked that up from my dad when I was little. They had Rod & Charles Woodson. I loved the players. They were the original bad boys, I loved the way they played the game, and they were nasty with it.


JP: What do you like to do in your free time?

DH: I have a little girl now so I love playing with her; I play a lot of poker and house games, play on the Internet sometimes. And I do a lot of bowling; I bowl 3 times a week, and Xbox 360. My tag is Mel18free, because that’s my nickname and my position.


JP: Do you have any plans after football?

DH: Well I’m in the middle of trying to own my own recreation center. I want to own one and maybe run that after football. I want to own a couple apartment complexes but mainly it would be my recreation center for kids.


JP: Why should a team take you on April 25th/26th?

DH: I think my biggest thing is physical ability. I don’t have the goal of making it to the NFL, I have the goal of making it to the Pro Bowl. I have the goal of trying to be the best to ever play the game. My play is going to determine how much I love the game. I’ll be loyal to the team, I love X’s and O’s and studying. It’s also how much of a person I am off the field. I could help in multiple ways. I’m loyal, determined, and a hard worker.


Dre'Mail Hardin's Official Website


2007 Highlights


2008 Highlights

No Combine No Problem

These are the players that I feel have the best chance of getting drafted at each position despite not being invited to the upcoming combine.

QB: Chris Pizzotti, Harvard:
Prototypical size for a pocket passer, makes very good decisions in the pocket. He was very productive, passing current Cincinnati QB Ryan Fitzpatrick for many of the Crimson Tide passing records.
2008 Stats: 2490yds; 62.7%; 17td; 4int
Projected Measurables: 6'5" 225; 4.90


RB: Devin Moore, Wyoming:
He looks like he could be a very good 3rd down back with his speed and receiving ability. Could also potentially be a kick returner, very fast and elusive in the open field.
2008 Stats: 1301yds; 5.2avg; 7td
Projected Measurables: 5'9" 190; 4.35

FB: Conredge Collins, Pittsburgh:
With the gradual decline of the fullback, versatility is the key here as he can run, catch, and block very well.
2008 Stats: 93yds; 4.0avg; 9rec; 77yds
Projected Measurables: 6'0" 225; 4.65

TE: Ryan Purvis, Boston College:
Wasn't very productive during his senior year, but has soft hands and is a very solid blocker.
2008 Stats: 24rec; 176yds; 7.3ypc
Projected Measurables: 6'4" 255; 4.80

WR: Jamarko Simmons, WMU:
He's a more polished and productive version of Legedu Naanee. Great size for a WR or H-B, doesn't have great speed but can get open and catch the ball very well.
2008 Stats: 104rec; 1276yds; 12.3ypc; 7td
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 240; 4.65


WR: Dobson Collins, Gardner-Webb:
He's smallish but is very athletic and fluid running routes/after the catch.
2008 Stats: 76rec; 937yds; 12.3ypc; 10td
Projected Measurables: 6'1" 180; 4.45

LT: Sebastian Vollmer, Houston:
Great size and good feet, has a lot of potential and has only been playing football for 5 years.
Projected Measurables: 6'7" 315; 5.25

LG: T.J. Lang, EMU:
Consistent and versatile, does everything well and is good at the 2nd level. Can also play OT.
Projected Measurables: 6'4" 310; 5.10

C: Cecil Newton, Tennessee St:
Smallish but athletic, could be a good developmental center for a ZBS team.
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 295; 5.15

RG: Ryan Durand, Syracuse:
Tough guy, good run blocker and pass blocker, polished.
Projected Measurables: 6'5" 305; 5.30

RT: Raphael Nguti, Albany:
He's a huge, mauling RT that had a very good career against a lower level of competition.
Projected Measurables: 6'7" 340; 5.50


DE: Phillip Hunt, Houston:
Very productive pass rusher, doesn't have ideal size but makes up for it with leverage, quickness, and strength.
2008 Stats: 52tkls; 18.5tfl; 14sacks; 3ff; 1fr
Projected Measurables: 6'1" 260; 4.65


DE: Marcus Benard, Jackson St:
He will probably add weight and play DE, but has the athleticism, size and pass rushing ability to possibly be a 3-4 OLB.
2008 Stats: 84tkls; 21.5tfl; 15sacks; 1ff; 2fr
Projected Measurables: 6'4" 270; 4.80


DT: Everette Pedescleaux, Northern Iowa:
Former basketball player is also being looked at as a possible 3-4 DE, should be very impressive in workouts.
2008 Stats: 62tkls; 11.5tfl; 6.5sacks; 3ff
Projected Measurables: 6'6" 305; 4.90

DT: Clinton McDonald, Memphis:
Very athletic and active inside, gets good penetration and had a productive career.
2008 Stats: 39tkls; 7.5tfl; 7sacks; 1ff
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 290; 4.80

ILB: Frantz Joseph, FAU:
Great vs. the run, violent hitter. Struggles a little in coverage but could be a good 2 down LB.
2008 Stats: 154tkls; 9tfl; 1ff; 2fr
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 245; 4.75

OLB: Jason Williams, Western Illinois:
Good size and athleticism, has a lot of potential and looks like a late rounder at this point.
2008 Stats: 67tkls; 17tfl; 4sacks; 6ff
Projected Measurables: 6'1" 240; 4.60

OLB: Ashlee Palmer, Ole Miss:
Looks like he could make the move to SS to me, played well in the Senior Bowl.
2008 Stats: 50tkls; 5tfl; 1sack; 1int; 1ff
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 225; 4.55


CB: D.J. Clark, Idaho St:
Great size and speed for a CB, is expected to perform very well at his pro day, might be asked to make the move to safety.
2008 Stats: 58tkls; 1tfl; 8pbu; 5int; 2fr; 1ff
Projected Measurables: 6'1" 200; 4.45

CB: Mark Parson, Ohio:
Shutdown corner lacks size but is very quick and instinctive in coverage.
2008 Stats: 46tkls; 1tfl; 5pbu; 2int; 1ff
Projected Measurables: 5'9" 190; 4.45

SS: Keith Fitzhugh, Mississippi St:
The best player not invited to the combine in my opinion, offers great support vs. the run and is a playmaker.
2008 Stats: 50tkls; 2.5tfl; 2pbu; 2int; 1fr
Projected Measurables: 5'10" 210; 4.55

FS: Trimane Goddard, North Carolina:
Had a very productive senior season, probably won't wow anybody in workouts but has talent.
2008 Stats: 54tkls; 1.5tfl; 12pbu; 7int; 2ff
Projected Measurables: 5'11" 195; 4.55

RS: Jason Chery, La-Lafayette:
Claims to be able to run in the 4.2's. Showed great balance and quickness as a punt returner at the Texas vs. Nation game. He also brings value as a slot WR, and could easily sneak into the draft with his versatility.
2008 Stats: 44kr; 953yds; 1td
Projected Measurables: 5'10" 190; 4.40


Honorable Mention:
Todd Boeckman, QB/Ohio St
Willie Tuitama, QB/Arizona
Brian Johnson, QB/Utah
Josh Vaughan, RB/Richmond
Aaron Brown, RB/TCU
Antone Smith, RB/Florida St
Frank Summers, RB/FB/UNLV
Travis McCall, H-B/Alabama
Zach Miller, TE/Nebraska-Omaha
Darius Hill, TE/Ball St
Dudley Guice, WR/Northwestern St
D.J. Boldin, WR/Wake Forest
Greg Carr, WR/Florida St
Colin Brown, OT/Missouri
Cedric Dockery, OG/Texas
Rich Ohrnberger, OG/Penn St
Blake Schlueter, C/TCU
Colin Dow, C/Montana
Henry Melton, DE/Texas
Pierre Walters, DE/Eastern Illinois
Julius Williams, DE/LB/Connecticut
Louis Ellis, DT/Shaw
Nader Abdallah, DT/Ohio St
John Faletoese, DT/Cal-Davis
Antonio Appleby, ILB/Virginia
Michael Tauiliili, MLB/Duke
Johnny Williams, OLB/Kentucky
Willie Williams, OLB/Union
Anthony Heygood, OLB/Purdue
Jerome Boyd, OLB/SS/Oregon
William Middleton, CB/Furman
Jamar Love, CB/Arkansas
Ellis Lankster, CB/West Virginia
Londen Fryar, CB/WMU
Dahna Deleston, SS/LB/Connecticut
Nate Ness, FS/Arizona
Dre'Mail Hardin, FS/Stillman
Michael Ray Garvin, RS/CB/Florida St

Top 10 Overall-Update #1

This is my top 10 on February 8th, 2009. This is NOT where I think these players will be drafted, but it is how good I think they will be in the NFL. Most of you might think I'm crazy for having 3 Wide Receivers in my Top 10, but that is just a testament to how talented these guys are. Here it is:

1. Michael Crabtree**, WR/Texas Tech:
He's a beast, physically overpowers CB's and has very strong hands. Has the concentration to make catches in traffic and go up and get it. Runs good routes and gets open, great size and overall athleticism. The one question with him is his relatively average (projected) straight line speed.
Projected Measurables: 6'3" 215; 4.55
2008 Stats: 93rec; 1,135yds; 12.2ypc; 18td
Best Fits: St. Louis @ #2 or Seattle @ #4



2. Everette Brown*, DE/OLB/Florida St:
He needs to show he can drop into coverage because he has the look of an OLB. Excellent athlete, very quick off the snap and has great natural pass rush ability. He'll be a hot commodity on draft day with 3-4 teams, the Combine will be very important to his stock, if he decides to work out.
Projected Measurables: 6'4" 250; 4.65
2008 Stats: 36tkls; 21.5tfl; 13.5sacks; 4ff
Best Fits: Green Bay @ #9 or San Francisco @ #10



3. Michael Oher, OT/Ole Miss:
He's a very well proportioned big man, could probably even add some weight and muscle. Gets out of his stance quickly in pass pro and his initial pop in the run game is up there with the best of 'em. Fluid athlete for a guy his size, looks like he can play LT to me but also has quality experience at OG. High risk-high reward player, mental capacity has been questioned and struggles to re-direct at times. Players with his talent don't come around too often.
Projected Measurables: 6'5" 309; 5.20
Best Fits: Cincinnati @ #6 or Jacksonville @ #8



4. Aaron Curry, LB/Wake Forest: I've been talking about him since his Sophomore year, prototypical size/strength, very productive and has a nose for the football. Not the most athletic guy around but definitely has enough to be an excellent LB. He's a playmaker who probably won't go as high as he should just because many teams don't like spending high picks on LB's.
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 245; 4.60
2008 Stats: 105tkls; 16.5tfl; 2.5sacks; 1int; 3fr
Best Fits: Kansas City @ #3 or Cleveland @ #5



5. Rey Maualuga, ILB/USC: A big, intimidating presence in the middle. Very hard hitter and can really take some heads off. He could lose some weight and can't really run with RB's in coverage. Will miss some occasional tackles but makes a ton of plays and can change the mindset of a defense.
Projected Measurables: 6'2" 254; 4.75
2008 Stats: 79tkls; 2.5tfl; 2int
Best Fits: Oakland @ #7 or Denver @ #12



6. Jeremy Maclin**, WR/Missouri: Dynamic playmaker in the return game or as a receiver, very quick and knows how to get open. He's not the biggest guy around but I definitely wouldn't call him slight. Good hands, has improved every year and should keep getting better.
Projected Measurables: 6'1" 200; 4.40
2008 Stats: 102rec; 1,260yds; 12.4ypc; 13td
Return Stats: 24.0yds/kor; 1td; 11.7yds/pr; 1td
Best Fits: Oakland @ #7 or Jacksonville @ #8



7. Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB/Texas: Physical freak of nature, should be a solid 4-3 DE but might be able to play some 3-4 rush LB. Quick off the line but doesn't have great top end speed and doesn't really look like a guy who could consistently drop into coverage and be as productive. Packs a punch once he gets to the QB, which is very often. Awesome in the weight room, and it translates well to the field.
Projected Measurables: 6'4" 260; 4.75
2008 Stats: 42tkls; 19tfl; 11.5sacks; 4ff
Best Fits: Cleveland @ #5 or Green Bay @ #9



8. Mark Sanchez*, QB/USC: His performance in the Rose Bowl was the best Bowl showing by a pocket passer in a long time. A little inconsistent, didn't face top competition but has shown that he has all the tools to be a franchise signal caller in the NFL. Might need to sit on the bench for a year or two, given his relative lack of experience. More potential than Leinart had coming out, but the Pete Carroll situation did make me scratch my head a little.
Projected Measurables: 6'3" 225; 4.80
2008 Stats: 3,207yds; 8.8yds/att; 65.8%; 34td; 10int; 3 rush td
Best Fits: Kansas City @ #3 or San Francisco @ #10



9. Eugene Monroe, OT/Virginia: Probably the most polished OT in the draft, but doesn't have quite as much potential as Oher. Great frame, looks comfortable getting to the 2nd level and has a lot of experience. Kept last year's first round pick Branden Albert at OG, should be able to contribute very soon.
Projected Measurables: 6'5" 315; 5.20
Best Fits: St. Louis @ #2 or Jacksonville @ #8



10. Percy Harvin*, WR/Florida: Extremely talented in the open field, dangerous with the ball in his hands. He's a little raw as a WR but has a ton of tools to work with. Looks like he'll be a great #2 WR (depending on the scheme & team) and game breaker at the next level, but doesn't have great size and might do most of his damage in the return game early on. Should run very well at the combine.
Projected Measurables: 5'11" 195; 4.40
2008 Stats: 40rec; 644yds; 16.1ypc; 7td
Rushing Stats: 70rush; 659yds; 9.4avg; 10td
Best Fits: San Francisco @ #10 or NY Jets @ #17



Best of the Rest (Loosely Ranked)
2nd Tier:
Darrius Heyward-Bey*, WR/Maryland
B.J. Raji, DT/Boston College
Knowshon Moreno*, RB/Georgia
Malcolm Jenkins, DB/Ohio St
Peria Jerry, DT/Ole Miss
D.J. Moore*, CB/Vanderbilt
Andre Smith*, OT/Alabama
Matthew Stafford*, QB/Georgia
Jason Smith, OT/Baylor

3rd Tier:
Shonn Greene*, RB/Iowa
Brian Cushing, LB/USC
Hakeem Nicks*, WR/North Carolina
Chris Wells*, RB/Ohio St
Michael Johnson, DE/Gerogia Tech
LeSean McCoy*, RB/Pittsburgh
James Laurinaitis, ILB/Ohio St
Brandon Pettigrew, TE/Oklahoma St
Aaron Maybin**, OLB/Penn St
Alphonso Smith, CB/Wake Forest
Vontae Davis*, CB/Illinois

4th Tier:
James Casey**, TE/Rice
Sean Smith*, DB/Utah
Jamon Meredith, OL/South Carolina
Fili Moala, DT/USC
Paul Kruger**, DE/Utah
Donald Brown*, RB/Connecticut
Josh Freeman*, QB/Kansas St
Eben Britton*, OT/Arizona
Juaquin Iglesias, WR/Oklahoma
Kenny Britt*, WR/Rutgers
Duke Robinson, OG/Oklahoma
Clay Matthews, LB/DE/USC

5th Tier:
Ron Brace, NT/Boston College
Keenan Lewis, CB/Oregon St
Antoine Caldwell, C/Alabama
Tyson Jackson, DE/LSU
Larry English, DE/Northern Illinois
Macho Harris, DB/Virginia Tech
Derrick Williams, WR/Penn St
Alex Mack, C/California
Derek Pegues, DB/Mississippi St

Rising Prospects (Not Ranked)
Jarron Gilbert, DL/San Jose St
Bernard Scott, RB/Abilene Christian
Robert Ayers, DE/Tennessee
Coye Francies, CB/San Jose St
Deon Butler, WR/Penn St
Shawn Nelson, TE/Southern Miss
Louis Delmas, S/WMU
Jarrett Dillard, WR/Rice
Tyronne Greene, OG/Auburn
Tyrone McKenzie, OLB/USF
Lee Robinson, OLB/Alcorn St
Sebastian Vollmer, OT/Houston

Senior Bowl Game Report

Nobody really stood apart from the pack this year, although B.J. Raji did in practices. Considering this year's draft is stocked with juniors, we may see a very low number of first round picks from this game.

*****
1. Robert Ayers, DE/Tennessee: It was real tough to rank these 6 because they all had good games but nobody really separated themselves. Ayers showed some great quickness, beat his man inside or and outside. He holds up well against the run and has a nice strength/athleticism combination. Probably helped himself the most of anyone this week.

2. Michael Oher, OT/Ole Miss: I was impressed that he even decided to compete this week. He proved to me that he's worthy of that top OT spot. He bends very well, looks natural at the 2nd level and adjusts to moving targets well. Gets a good push in the run game, very quick out of his stance.
3. Peria Jerry, DT/Ole Miss: Extremely active on the inside, just lines up and beats the man in front of him, no matter what he has to do. He worked his way into the first round in my opinion.
4. Juaquin Iglesias, WR/Oklahoma: He got open all night, runs good routes and is a gamer. Good hands and size, gets the most out of his physical tools. In most drafts I'd say he's a late 1st round talent but with this year's underclassmen I'd say early to mid 2nd.

5. Andre Brown, RB/N.C. State: Has some durability concerns and never dominated in his college career but had a Joseph Addai-like week/game. He has great quickness for a guy his size and showed some pretty good receiving skills.
6. Scott McKillop, ILB/Pittsburgh: Instinctive, tough, and smart LB. Rarely caught out of place and seemed to be around the ball on every run play. He won't be a top pick because of his measurables, but he's a player.

****
7. Mike Wallace, WR/Ole Miss: Looked like the fastest guy at this game, just ran by people, made some good plays on special teams and did I mention he's fast?
8. Fili Moala, DT/USC: He's big and very explosive off the line of scrimmage. I think he could play 3-4 DE, reminds me of Luis Castillo.
9. Tyrone McKenzie, OLB/USF: Has a great frame and looks athletic in pursuit. Smooth dropping into coverage, made some solid hits.
10. Derek Pegues, DB/Mississippi St: Versatility is the key, looks like a CB and can play S. Gets to top speed very fast. Played aggressive today and made some good tackles.
11. Pat White, QB/West Virginia: He was the most impressive all around QB although he overthrew some guys. Should've played WR here if he felt comfortable running routes. I don't think he can be a full time #1 QB at the next level.

12. Quinn Johnson, FB/LSU: He's huge and is very good inline blocker, had some quality receptions and blew up some people on special teams.
13. Mitch King, DT/Iowa: He'll find a place at the next level no matter where it is. It seemed like he made every play on the first drive but didn't do a whole lot after that.

***
14. Darius Butler, CB/Connecticut: Great in coverage, out of his breaks, but missed a tackle bad and isn't very big
15. Brian Cushing, LB/USC: The most athletic of the USC trio, made some plays vs. the pass and run
16. Ron Brace, DT/Boston College: Looked great chasing down Andre Brown, is huge and will be a solid NT
17. Phil Loadholt, OT/Oklahoma: I didn't see him get beat, not a good bender but gets the job done and is a giant
18. Clay Matthews, LB/USC: He can definitely play 3-4 LB, and probably even 4-3, fluid in space
19. Macho Harris, CB/Virginia Tech: You didn't hear his name called much and that's a good thing, blanket coverage all day
20. Patrick Turner, WR/USC: Great routes for a guy with his size, pretty good hands but average top end speed
21. Tyronne Greene, OG/Auburn: He controlled Raji pretty well, really put himself on the map with this game
22. Patrick Chung, S/Oregon: Had some big hits, very aggressive and explosive athlete, alright in coverage. Why was he returning kicks?
23. Cedric Peerman, RB/Virginia: Runs hard, falls forward, can't be arm tackled. Did have a fumble, though
24. Louis Delmas, S/WMU: Aggressive, sure tackler with good closing speed. Should add weight

**
25. Jeremiah Johnson, RB/Oregon: Looks like he'll be a solid 3rd down RB, good receiver and makes quick cuts
26. Darry Beckwith, ILB/LSU: Athletic and natural dropping into coverage, reads QB's eyes well
27. Rhett Bomar, QB/Sam Houston St: Made some questionable decisions but looked comfortable in the pocket, had the strongest arm of all the QB's in Mobile
28. Brian Robiskie, WR/Ohio St: He runs efficient routes, a rare quality in 6'3" WR's, needs to put on weight
29. Alphonso Smith, CB/Wake Forest: Gambled on one then dropped a sure pick-6 but showed great speed out of his breaks and stayed step for step with his man
30. David Veikune, DE/Hawaii: Hustle player, natural pass rush skills are pretty good. Looked good on ST but probably lacks the athleticism to play LB
31. Coye Francies, CB/San Jose St: Very much a finesse player, offers little to no support vs. the run and is real thin but is a great athlete with prototype speed/quickness and blanketed his man all night
32. Alex Mack, C/California: Athletic, should be a solid pick for a zone blocking team
33. Marcus Freeman, OLB/Ohio St: Exploded into some hits and looked pretty fast, can take a little too long disengaging from blockers
34. Antoine Caldwell, C/Alabama: My favorite Center in the draft, equally effective in pass pro and run blocking
35. Eric Wood, C/Louisville: Looked good on some pulls but didn't always lock onto his man very effectively
36. Kory Sheets, RB/Purdue: Showed some excellent speed down the sideline but didn't play real strong. Watch out for him at the combine

*
37. Rashad Jennings, RB/Liberty: He doesn't run like a 6'1" 234 RB
38. Michael Hamlin, S/Clemson: Won't be a star but is solid in coverage and can help vs. the run
39. Ellis Lankster, CB/West Virginia: Made some mistakes but also came up with an INT and had a great tfl vs. the run
40. Ashlee Palmer, OLB/Ole Miss: He looks like a SS to me, very smooth in space and looked good in coverage, took a bad angle on a blitz
41. Cody Brown, DE/LB/Connecticut: Should definitely play LB, very explosive and fluid athlete but is a finesse DE
42. Connor Barwin, DE/TE/Cincinnati: Had some good blocks at TE and an almost-sack in his limited time at DE
43. Derrick Williams, WR/Penn St: Solid on ST, showed good speed on a reverse
44. Eric Kettani, FB/Navy: Could be a very good short yardage RB for somebody, quick for his size and runs very low to the ground
45. Tim Jamison, DE/Michigan: Goes all out every play, works hard and does a good job keeping hands off him
46. Quan Cosby, WR/Texas: Gets to top speed real quick, should be a solid slot WR in the NFL
47. Herman Johnson, OL/LSU: Played way better than he did in practices, great once he locked on but really struggled with outside speed rushers. Unless he loses weight and gets a lot quicker, he should definitely play OG

48. Moise Fokou, LB/Maryland: Not very athletic, looked stiff in pursuit but was strong vs. the run and very aggressive
49. Ramses Barden, WR/Cal-Poly: Struggled to get open but is huge and has great hands
50. Sherrod Martin, CB/Troy: Made a good play in run support, then missed a tackle on a screen pass. Has a great frame and looks very athletic
51. Corvey Irvin, DT/Georgia: Active inside, gets the most out of his ability but can be controlled at times

These players didn't help or hurt their stock in my eyes:
Rey Maualuga, MLB/USC: He did exactly as I expected, looked great blowing up a screen play but also missed a tackle he should've made
B.J. Raji, DT/Boston College: He helped himself the most in practices but didn't do much in the game

Mike Thomas, WR/Arizona: Muffed a punt real bad but looked good in the open field
Chip Vaughn, S/Wake Forest: Showed good speed on ST but didn't do much on D
Greg Carr, WR/Florida St: Late add, made a nice catch on a slant but lacks speed
James Davis, RB/Clemson: He didn't stand out, solid but not great
Rashad Johnson, S/Alabama: Doesn't do any one thing well but didn't make mistakes, looked relatively thin
Jason Watkins, OT/Florida: He's athletic, needs to play more aggressive
Kyle Moore, DE/USC: Didn't make plays today but he looks like a player
Lawrence Sidbury, DE/Richmond: I didn't see him much
John Parker Wilson, QB/Alabama: Showed more mobility than I expected but isn't a very talented QB
Larry English, DE/Northern Illinois: Not a freak athlete, looks like he should add weight and stay at DE to me
Will Davis, DE/Illinois: Explosive athlete but doesn't show it a whole lot, he played a finesse game today
Brandon Pettigrew, TE/Oklahoma St: Made a nice catch on the sideline, blocked well
Ziggy Hood, DT/Missouri: Held up well vs. the run
Jonathan Luigs, C/Arkansas: Athletic, locks onto his blocks
Alex Magee, DT/Purdue: Late add, he definitely fit in this week
John Phillips, TE/Virginia: He should add some weight considering he's not a great receiver
Kraig Urbik, OG/Wisconsin: He's solid but nothing special, not a great athlete
Manuel Johnson, WR/Oklahoma: He was only targeted once but looked quick
Anthony Hill, TE/N.C. St: Has a good frame, soft hands but isn't explosive at all
Nathan Brown, QB/Central Arkansas: Considering he didn't have much stock coming into the game, he would've had to do a lot to drop it. Just an average QB, shouldn't be drafted.

I didn't watch these players enough to rank them, some may not have played much or at all:
Tony Fiammetta, FB/Syracuse
William Moore, S/Missouri: Injured in the first quarter, the one time I really noticed him was when he took a poor angle and missed a tackle
Keenan Lewis, CB/Oregon St (DNP-Injured)
Morgan Trent, CB/Michigan: Late add to the roster, didn't play much
Ryan Shuman, C/Virginia Tech
Antone Smith, RB/Florida St: Late add
Shawn Nelson, TE/Southern Miss (DNP-Inured)
Vance Walker, DT/Georgia Tech:
Travis McCall, H-B/Alabama: Has a FB build
Brandon Gibson, WR/Washington St (DNP-Injured)

I was disappointed in:
Cullen Harper, QB/Clemson: He showed the same thing he has all year: Frustrating inconsistency
Domonique Johnson, CB/Jackson St: Made an acrobatic catch on the sideline, but only got one foot in. Doesn't change directions real well, struggled with double moves
Troy Kropog, OT/Tulane: He'll be a project, looked a little out of place at times and doesn't get a push in the run game or have much of a punch
Trevor Canfield, OG/Cincinnati: Needs to improve balance, works hard on the field but has average feet at best
Xavier Fulton, OT/Illinois: I was expecting a lot more from him, was beaten inside several times
Andy Levitre, OL/Oregon St: He'll have to play guard, is short and looked slow-footed today
Zack Follett, LB/California: He doesn't look athletic enough
Clint Sintim, LB/Virginia: Took some really bad angles, didn't make any plays
David Bruton, S/Notre Dame: Couldn't run with Quan Cosby, had a terrible drop of an int right in his hands
Graham Harrell, QB/Texas Tech: Saying he lacked arm strength would be an understatement

DeAngelo Smith, CB/Cincinnati: He didn't show anything in terms of recovery speed, burst, or acceleration out of his breaks
William Beatty, OT/Connecticut: After watching him here, the 1st round talk seems very unwarranted to me. He looked thin and passive, has good feet and is solid on the 2nd level but really lacks strength and didn't use his hands well

East-West Shrine Game Report

Who impressed me the most:

******
1. Jamon Meredith, OT/South Carolina: He was on a different level than anyone else here, by far. Looks like a TE running downfield and reaching the 2nd level, excellent feet in pass pro and has the frame to add weight. Played inside at OG a lot this year, so that brings some versatility, I would definitely take him 2nd round, maybe even late first.


*****
2. Keith Fitzhugh, SS/Mississippi St: He's very active and has a quick trigger to come up and fit vs. the run. About as sure a tackler as you'll find, played extremely hard. Made a couple mistakes in coverage and doesn't appear to be as instinctive against the pass, but has a lot of tools to work with and showed tremendous potential. Great on Special Teams.


3. Sebastian Vollmer, OT/Houston: The only guy that could contain Sidbury, an OT with his length and feet is extremely hard to get by. He's got some technique issues he could work out and doesn't get a great push in the run game, but is athletic and could be a steal early on the 2nd day as a developmental type.


4. Jarrett Dillard, WR/Rice: One word to describe him would be savvy. Sure he has great hands and ups and good quickness/speed, but the precision in his routes is uncanny. Almost everything about them seemed perfect. The only thing keeping him from being in that top tier of WR's is his size.


5. Mike Thomas, WR/Arizona: Dillard was 1A and Thomas was 1B of the WR's, in my opinion. He looks very short out there (He's 5'8"), but his toughness and strength over the middle makes up for a lot of it. Good hands and can jump, very quick and runs good routes. Could be a Welker type slot WR at the next level.

6. Tyrell Sutton, RB/Northwestern: He looks like Chester Taylor to me. Excellent receiver out of the backfield (149 catches in his college career), could be a great 3rd down back for somebody. Looked good on kick returns, runs low to the ground and with surprising power, makes efficient cutbacks. Might not be a full time back in the NFL but is a hell of a player.

****
7. Lawrence Sidbury, DE/Richmond: He could be a productive situational pass rusher. Terrorized the West OL, extremely quick off the ball and has very long arms. A huge question for him will be the 3-4 LB one, and he should get a chance to show some cover skills at the combine. His one negative is a huge one: Really struggles when ran at, can get driven back pretty easily once he's locked onto (which is rare), ended up going too far upfield and overrunning the play too often.


8. Louis Vasquez, OG/Texas Tech: I don't see why this guy isn't higher on everyone's boards. Sure, he's not a quick, 1 on 1 type of blocker but he gets a great drive in the running game, is huge, and holds his ground with the best of 'em. Some say he looks sluggish, but I didn't see that. He would really struggle if put on an island at LT and he'll probably run a 5.4ish forty, but those things aren't too important for OG's. The one thing that concerns me with him is his second level blocking.


9. Gartrell Johnson, RB/Colorado St: Extremely powerful, I'd hate to try and bring him down. Huge legs, keeps them driving on contact and always falls forward. I think some people will write him off after he runs a disappointing forty at the combine (probably 4.6-4.7), but he could be an excellent short yardage back, and could maybe even play some FB.


10. Brandon Mouton, CB/Hawaii: Blanketed his man all day, got in Aaron Kelly's head big time. Small but plays big, very quick. His top end speed might not be great but he does have a little burst.

11. Deon Butler, WR/Penn St: He adjusts to the ball in the air as smoothly as any receiver I've ever seen. Runs sharp routes and has good hands but is smallish and his top-end speed is questionable.

12. Kaluka Maiava, LB/USC: He was often overlooked because of the talent around him, but was able to showcase his skills here. Instinctive and smart player, sure tackler and looks fluid dropping into coverage. He's smallish and isn't great vs. the run, reminds me of Brendon Ayanbadejo.

13. Bear Pascoe, TE/Fresno St: Made an acrobatic catch above Courtney Greene over the middle, showing some impressive athleticism. Several of his blocks sealed off huge lanes for Aaron Brown and others to run through. He'll never be mistaken for a WR but he is a smart, blue collar player.

14. Phillip Hunt, DE/Houston: Plays with outstanding power and leverage for a guy his size. I've heard his name be brought up as a possible OLB but this game convinced me he should stay at DE. He's very stout, reminds me very much of Keyunta Dawson. His size is a big drawback to being a 1st day pick, and it's a shame because he's talented.

15. Marlon Lucky, RB/Nebraska: After a disappointing senior year he ran like a different person in this game and reminded us why he was one of the most coveted H.S. recruits in the nation. If I was a GM I'd have to make sure this is the real him before I took him. I'd really like to know why he wasn't more productive this season.

16. Augustus Parrish, OT/Kent St: He's raw in technique & footwork but flashes jaw-dropping potential at times. He's athletic but doesn't move his feet real quick. Has a strong upper body and a great frame but doesn't always use leverage and hand placement to his advantage. He could sneak into the 3rd round a la Oniel Cousins with an impressive combine.

17. Michael Tauiliili, ILB/Duke: He was just all over the field. I'm not sure if his talent will transfer to the NFL but he sure is fun to watch. Instinctive, tough player, if a team can convince themselves he's the next Zach Thomas and not just one of the many great college players that lack the size and speed to make it in the NFL, he'll get drafted.

18. Clinton McDonald, DT/Memphis: He can play 3-4 end, but I view him as a 4-3 tackle. Extremely active and looked like a poor man's Rod Coleman/Jon Babineaux. He was the only one to push Vasquez back all day. Lacks the prototypical size of a DT but he was very productive and gets good penetration.

***
19. Ryan Palmer, CB/Texas: Extremely aggressive (sometimes over-aggressive), suffocated receivers
20. Curtis Taylor, S/LSU: Looks like a big time player with his size/speed/athleticism, played solid but not great
21. Hunter Cantwell, QB/Louisville: Big guy with a big arm, he didn't get to throw as much as I would've liked

22. Tom Brandstater, QB/Fresno St: Probably had the most impressive game of any of the QB's but I'm not sold on him
23. Myron Pryor, DT/Kentucky: I doubt he gets drafted b/c of his size but he could make a team with hustle and he makes plays
24. Jon Cooper, C/Oklahoma: He could fit for a zone blocking team looking for a mobile C, moves very well at the 2nd level but can be thrown around at times
25. Roy Miller, DT/Texas: Very active, I could see him as part of a 3 DT rotation someday
26. Jason Williams, OLB/Illinois St: He'll be a project, lacks some in technique but looks the part, showed impressive speed in pursuit
27. Matt Shaughnessy, DE/Wisconsin: He's long and gets his hands up at exactly the right time, impressive pass rusher needs to add weight, looks a little stiff in pursuit
28. Javarris Williams, RB/Tennessee St: Runs very low to the ground and makes quick cuts

**
29. Aaron Brown, RB/TCU: Great in the open field with his cutbacks/speed, but can be arm tackled way too easily
30. Johnny Williams, LB/Kentucky: Good size for the position, made some solid hits but struggled disengaging blockers
31. Lendy Holmes, S/Oklahoma: Didn't really make too many plays but showed very good speed chasing down Marlon Lucky. He could be one of those surprise-sub 4.4 guys at the combine.
32. Jarron Gilbert, DL/San Jose St: I expected more from him but he did have a solid game

33. Matt Slauson, OG/Nebraska: Power run blocker, has a mean streak but doesn't look good at the 2nd level
34. Jasper Brinkley, ILB/South Carolina: One of the highest prospects on my board coming into the game, this game was forgettable for him, only had one play that made an impact but looked smoother in coverage than I thought he would.

35. Nick Reed, DE/Oregon: He looks like he could make the move to 3-4 LB, high motor pass rush specialist
36. Jason Phillips, LB/TCU: Very aggressive, good on special teams but his reported timed speed (4.5's) doesn't translate to the field
37. Brian Hoyer, QB/Michigan St: Had a very disappointing senior season, was on target today

*
38. Terrance Taylor, DT/Michigan: Doesn't make many plays because he's too busy taking up blockers
39. Sammie Stroughter, WR/Oregon St: Not very fast but he can get open and catch the ball
40. Stephen McGee, QB/Texas A&M: He got benched this year and somehow didn't look rusty
41. Stryker Sulak, DE/Missouri: Long, lanky, doesn't look like he could play LB but does have the frame to bulk up
42. Bradley Fletcher, CB/Iowa: One big question with him in my mind is recovery speed and short area burst, had a pretty good game but didn't do anything to answer me
43. Don Carey, CB/Norfolk St: Quick twitch athlete, looks good and fluid running with WR's but was beaten deep bad by Marko Mitchell then pulled up with a hamstring injury
44. Collin Mooney, FB/Army: Old school, hard nosed FB
45. Mark Hafner, H-B/Houston: Was left uncovered over the middle all day and made the most of it
46. Brian Mandeville, TE/Northeastern: Tall with good straight line speed, needs to add strength and improve blocking
47. Ryan Durand, Syracuse: Tough guy, locks on consistently but has average physical tools
48. Mortty Ivy, LB/West Virginia: Looked more fluid as an athlete than I thought he would, sure tackler

Didn't help or hurt themselves
Ramon Foster, OT/Tennessee: Lumbers at the 2nd level but got a solid push in the run game, exactly what we all expected
Greg Orton, WR/Purdue: Solid downfield blocking but only had one reception and it was a body-catch
Etienne Legare, DE/Laval (Ca): Showed a nice bull-rush but nothing else, should play in the CFL
Morgan Trent, CB/Michigan: His interception was cancelled out by the whole Dillard beating him by 10yds thing
C.J. Spillman, S/Marhsall: Physical player, takes good angles but doesn't change directions very well
Manuel Johnson, WR/Oklahoma: Didn't do anything that stood out but looked pretty quick
Mike Reilly, QB/Central Washington: Didn't play near as bad as his stat line, actually impressed me a little bit
Edwin Williams, C/Maryland: Big center, good once he locks on but doesn't re-direct well
Ian Johnson, RB/Boise St: The most recognizable name in this year's game. I think he'll end up playing in the CFL, if he wants to, doesn't have any tools that really separate him from the rest of the pack

Victor Butler, LB/Oregon St: Made some plays on ST, I didn't see him on defense
Fenuki Tupou, OT/Oregon: He can slide well and is a mauler, it's when he has to change directions that he really struggles
Jared Bronson, TE/Central Washington: Doesn't look very fast but caught the ball well
Ra'Shon Harris, DT/Oregon: He looked way bigger than he's listed, could probably play NT
Michael Bennett, DE/Texas A&M: Fast in the open field, he looked like an LB, got pushed back too much and never really pressured the QB
Dannell Ellerbe, LB/Georgia: He was solid in coverage and vs. the run, but didn't stand out

I didn't get to single out these guys as much as I would've liked (some of them did not play b/c of injury):
Cecil Newton, C/Tennessee St
Seth Olsen, OG/Iowa
Nick Walker, TE/Alabama
Jaimie Thomas, OG/Maryland
David Johnson, FB/TE/Arkansas St
Darcel McBath, S/Texas Tech
Kevin Ellison, S/USC
Anthony Felder, LB/California
Al Afalava, S/Oregon St
Glover Quin, CB/New Mexico
Cary Harris, CB/USC
Worrell Williams, LB/California
Juan Garcia, C/Washington
Cedric Dockery, OL/Texas
Ray Feinga, OG/BYU
John Faletoese, DT/Cal-Davis
Darius Passmore, WR/Marshall: He's one of my guys but I'm not even sure he played; never noticed him

Robert Francois, OLB/Boston College
Brandon Hughes, CB/Oregon St

I was disappointed in the following players:
Chase Daniel, QB/Missouri: Had a disappointing week overall, I don't know if it was a lack of communication with the WR's, center, or what but he didn't look like the Chase Daniel I've seen in the past. Hopefully this is just a fluke

Brandon Underwood, DB/Cincinnati: He can play FS and CB, but didn't look very good at either one. He looked thin and slow to react most of the day
Courtney Greene, S/Rutgers: Got mossed by Bear Pascoe, didn't look on top of his game
Aaron Kelly, WR/Clemson: It looked like he was intimidated and he's rail thin. Fell down too much
Taurus Johnson, WR/USF: Didn't necessarily hurt himself, but confirmed suspicions about his shaky hands
Orion Martin, DE/Virginia Tech: Ran around blockers and struggled when he got locked onto, doesn't look athletic enough to make the position change either, struggled with open field tackling/angles
Darryl Richard, DT/Georgia Tech: I was expecting him to be one of the first DT's off the ball, but more often than not he was the last
Jorvorskie Lane, FB/Texas A&M: He's all but erased his chances of being drafted by showing up at reportedly 295 (he looks all of 300) and struggling to punch it in from inside the five

Dan Gay IV, OT/Baylor: Sidbury destroyed him. Looked good early on... against Etienne Legare
Simeon Rottier, OT/Alberta (Ca): Every time I saw him it seemed like he was on the ground, looked very thin
Pannel Egboh, DE/Stanford: He just seems a step slow to play DE, I think he should add weight and play DT because he had a couple solid bullrushes
Marko Mitchell, WR/Nevada: Was overthrown on badly on a deep ball that would've been a TD, then dropped several catchable balls
Travis Bright, OG/BYU: Slow feet, struggled to stay in front of his man
De'Von Hall, LB/SS/Utah St: Didn't look like he belonged, took poor angles and tried to arm tackle, not physical enough to play LB or athletic enough to play safety
Alex Boone, OT/Ohio St: This game was before we knew about his "drunken rampage" but his performance here hurt his stock (almost) as much. Showed no ability to stay with speed rushers, was beaten badly by a Nick Reed spin move. On a positive note, he looked huge