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[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (1 Viewer)

NFL executive blasts Eric Ebron, entire TE draft classBy Chase Goodbread

College Football 24/7 writer

The entire draft class of tight ends is a weak one, according to one NFL personnel executive, and the fool's gold starts at the top with North Carolina's Eric Ebron. The former Tar Heel is widely regarded as the draft's top prospect at the position and has been projected as high as the No. 9 overall pick to the Buffalo Bills, but at least one club will have a strong voice against him when his name comes up.

"He's OK. He's completely overrated, and he's a pain in the (butt)," an AFC personnel executive told nj.com. "And don't ask him to block anybody, because he's not going to do it."

Now there's someone who wouldn't touch Ebron with a pick anywhere near as high as No. 9. Ebron has also been projected to the New York Giants at No. 12 by NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah, and No. 17 to the Baltimore Ravens by analyst Charles Davis. Not exactly a ringing endorsement, but Ebron didn't even catch the worst of it. Washington's Austin Seferian-Jenkins, potentially a second-round pick, wasn't spared, either.

"He's more overrated and a bigger pain in the (butt) than the other guy," he said. "And he blocks like a wide receiver. I don't want any part of him."

The same exec went on to devalue the entire class at the position, which includes another potential first-round pick in Texas Tech's Jace Amaro, a second-round projection in Notre Dame's Troy Niklas, and a projected second-day pick in Iowa's C.J. Fiedorowicz.

"It's not good at all. I wish it was. But it's not," he added. "It's actually a bad year for tight ends. There's nobody even close to (Tyler) Eifert (drafted No. 21 by Bengals last year). (Eagles 2013 second-rounder Zach) Ertz is better than these guys."

It can certainly be argued that the tight end class is thin on depth, particularly for clubs in search of an in-line blocker at the position, rather than the slot-type receiving tight end that has taken a commanding presence in more than a few NFL offenses.

If Ebron is headed for Bustville, however, it will come as a surprise to the other scouts nj.com spoke with.

Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter @ChaseGoodbread.
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Virginia Tech's Logan Thomas hit 60 mph with combine throwBy Mike Huguenin

College Football 24/7 writer

Opening day of the Major League Baseball season is a good time to mention that Virginia Tech's Logan Thomas had the highest velocity among the quarterbacks who threw at last month's NFL Scouting Combine.

A Thomas pass was clocked at 60 mph during his combine workout, according to figures posted by Ourlads' Guide to the NFL Draft. Miami's Stephen Morris was second at 59 mph and Pitt's Tom Savage third at 57 mph.

Dan Shonka, Ourlads' general manager and national scout, said "the radar-gun shooter stands behind the receiver" to measure the speed of the throw and that the mph is not an average but rather one throw.

Thomas' mph reading is the fastest in the past seven combines. Among some notable past performances are the 59 mph reached by Colin Kaepernick in 2011 (3 mph faster than Cam Newton that year), the 59 mph reached by Brandon Weeden in 2012, the 55 mph reached by Russell Wilson in 2011, the 54 mph reached by E.J. Manuel in 2013 and the 55 mph reached by Joe Flacco in 2008.

Tyler Bray, Kirk Cousins and Zac Dysert are the other quarterbacks to hit 59 mph since 2008, and the quarterbacks to hit 58 mph are Austin Davis, Ryan Mallett, Mike Reilly, Drew Willy and John Parker Wilson. (Not exactly a who's who of quarterbacks, huh?)

That Thomas looks to have the strongest arm in this draft should surprise no one. Arm strength never has been an issue with him. But every other thing that comes with playing quarterback has been an issue for Thomas, from his mechanics to his decision-making to his accuracy. While he was a three-year starter for the Hokies who threw for 9,005 yards and 53 touchdowns, he also tossed 39 interceptions and completed just 55.6 percent of his passes.

In addition, his best season came in 2011, when he was a sophomore. He seemed to regress as a junior and senior. He had his moments in those two seasons, including a 293-yard, three-TD performance in a win over North Carolina as a senior, but they were overshadowed by 10 games in which he completed fewer than 53 percent of his passes, including seven outings in which he completed fewer than 50 percent.

Thomas has an upside because of his size (6-foot-6, 248 pounds, excellent athleticism and, yes, arm strength, and there undoubtedly are some quarterback coaches and offensive coordinators who are confident that they can tap into that potential and mold him into a starter. The tools are there, said NFL Media draft analyst Mike Mayock: "If you could figure out Logan Thomas, he has starting quarterback credentials."

But drafting Thomas is a gamble, no matter what round in which he is selected. Selecting him before the third or fourth round would seem to be folly, and even a fifth-round selection might be stretching it.

Mike Huguenin can be reached at mike.huguenin@nfl.com. You also can follow him on Twitter @MikeHuguenin.
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Rotoworld:

NFL Films' Greg Cosell believes LSU QB Zach Mettenberger is the best prototypical pocket passer in this class.
"Now the question becomes, 'do you value that?'" Cosell asked. "He's essentially a big, strong armed, intermediate and vertical pocket passer with a natural toughness to look down the gun barrel." Cosell also gave some credit to Mettenberger's ability to move, saying he is not a statue can can create a bit of space, and his willingness to make tough throws. He tends to fit what the Vikings and Norv Turner are (likely) looking for.

Source: Fantasy Guru Podcast
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Tennessee State TE A.C. Leonard and OL Kadeem Edwards will visit the Titans on Monday.
Offensive lineman Demetrius Rhaney and defensive back David Van Dyke joined in on the visit. These four prospects qualify as local visits, so they do not count against the team's limit. Leonard is a very intriguing receiving tight end with great straight-line speed.

Source: Jim Wyatt on Twitter
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Vanderbilt WR Jordan Matthews will visit the Titans on Monday.
Matthews qualifies as a local college visit, so he will not count against the team's number of allotted in-house visits. The Commodore receiver would enter a crowded position in Tennessee, but the value could be quite good in the third-round range. Matthews' teammate, offensive lineman Wesley Johnson, will also visit. Johnson has generated some buzz since a few teams believe he can play every position along the line.

Source: Jim Wyatt on Twitter
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Rotoworld:

Wyoming QB Brett Smith will make an official visit to the Panthers.
Smith also has another visit lined up but could not reveal the team. The Wyoming product was snubbed from the Combine, likely due to his surprising entry in the draft. The Panthers were fond of Russell Wilson in 2012 and will likely be searching for a long term backup behind Cam Newton.

Source: Eric Edholm on Twitter
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I seen the Ebron talk on the last few pages. He's going to be a bust (in terms of 1st round prospects). You're being sold V. Davis when you're really getting Ed Dickson. He and Dickson are nearly identical physically and neither can catch. He'll be decent working with an Aaron Rodgers and company. He'll be forgotten or labeled a bust in Buffalo or Tampa where I see him mocked for a few. Either way we won't be comparing him to Graham when it's all said and done.

This TE class sucks.

 
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http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24508816/nfl-draft-dl-capsules-bring-on-the-clowney

Starting from the very top, which should be with South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, the 2014 NFL Draft could be one of the most deceptive ever.

That deception is in depth perception, where despite the usual numbers of players at most positions, the quality of talent is much deeper than usual.

It all starts with Clowney, whose future greatness as a pro is not as obvious as his skills. He may or may not work out at his pro day Wednesday, which pretty much sums him up as the May 8 draft nears.

He dares teams to believe what they see. At the February combine what they saw was Clowney quantify his stunning physical ability. He checked in at 6-foot-5, 266 pounds and had a best 40-yard time of 4.51 seconds (although the announced time was 4.53), a vertical jump of 37.5 inches, 21 reps on bench and a 10-03 broad jump.

That helps explain those 13 sacks and 23.5 tackles for a loss in 2012. But based on his disappearing act with only three sacks last season, most teams consider Clowney something less than a what-you-see-is-what-you-get proposition.

Regardless, Clowney easily tops the usual-size list of draft-worthy defensive linemen -- approximately 21 ends and 22 tackles based on NFLDraftScout.com ratings.

But, like Clowney, these linemen are more talented, top to bottom, than any group in recent history.

He is the first of nine ends projected to be taken among the first 100 draftees and is one of three first-round prospects expected to be a dynamic NFL star. The other two are Missouri's athletic Kony Ealy and an Auburn's versatile Dee Ford.

The musclemen inside at tackle include 11 expected to go in the top 100 and as many as five in the first round, topped by Notre Dame's massive Louis Nix III, 331 pounds of humanity that is more substantial than the Golden Dome itself.

After watching the Seattle Seahawks' staunch defense disassemble the Denver Broncos' record-breaking offense in the Super Bowl, copycat NFL teams should have an increased appreciation for the higher level of helpful defensive talent available.

This is the first in a series looking at each position in the NFL Draft. Here is a closer look at the defensive linemen projected to be among the top 100 selected in this year's draft:

DEFENSIVE ENDSPos.Rank/Overall Rank/Player/School/Height/Weight/40 time/Proj. Round
(*=Undersclassman)

1/1. *Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina, 6-5, 266, 4.53, 1

Clowney showed freakish pass-rush ability when he first lined up as a freshman. He still does, but the critical footnote is there is no improvement and he is being labeled enigmatic. Clowney has startling explosion, great inside moves, long arms, good strength, and is so athletic that he never bothered to learn techniques to improve his game. After all, God-given ability was good enough to get 13 sacks and 23.5 tackles for a loss in 2012. He began last season touted as the No. 1 prospect for the 2014 draft, but during his final, 2013 college dash for the cash, he had a foot injury, often seemed fatigued and managed a mere 3.5 sacks. For those who questioned Clowney's worth ethic, the player's own coach, Steve Spurrier, offered this underwhelming endorsement -- "He's OK." But Clowney checked into the combine at 6-foot-5 1/4, 266 pounds and showcased all that natural ability with a best 40-yard time of 4.51 seconds (although announced time was 4.53), a vertical jump of 37.5 inches, 21 reps on bench and a 10-03 broad jump.

Frankly: No secrets here. Clowney is a once-in-a-decade physical freak plagued by a ceiling that is so high that he will have to work hard to get close to his potential. But will he?

2/17. *Kony Ealy, Missouri, 6-4, 273, 4.92, 1

Former high-school standout as tight end, defensive end and a Missouri all-state basketball player who entered college at only 207 pounds. That athleticism is conspicuous in his burst off the line, quick spin moves and closing speed on whomever has the ball. He must continue to improve strength to disengage big NFL blockers, evidenced by his so-so 22 reps with 225 pounds on the bench at the combine. Some teams believe he shows instincts and range to be an OLB in the right 3-4 scheme and he showed good lateral agility in games and at the combine, where his 3-cone drill was fastest among defensive linemen (7.11 seconds).

Frankly: Showed versatility as defensive end and inside pass rusher and stock soared this spring as some teams bought into his potential use at linebacker. Ealy is very good, but must continue to improve overall, especially in strength, to live up to lofty expectations against a steady diet of athletic NFL blockers.

3/29. Dee Ford, DE, Auburn, 6-2, 252, 4.59, 1

This Ford has a non-stop motor and is a likeable team leader on and off the field. Medically excluded from combine workouts based on readings of remnant medical issues from a 2011 procedure on his back, Ford put on a show at his pro day that confirmed his game production and validated his boasting -- both of which were considerable. His intense focus was obvious at the Senior Bowl and then by dropping eight pounds in 10 days before his pro day. At 244 pounds, looked like a classic convertible -- able to move from a 4-3 defensive end to a destructive 3-4 outside linebacker or hybrid pass rusher if necessary. His fluid athleticism helped get 14.5 stops for a loss last year, including 10.5 sacks. His pro day show included a 35 1/2-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-4-inch long jump, 29 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press and a 40-yard time of 4.59 seconds.

Frankly: Absent back problems, this is the kind of guy coaches want as a vocal and physical leader. Ford can be a persistent playmaker who can become the most prolific, long-term investment of any defensive lineman in this draft, including the enigmatic Clowney.

4/43. *Scott Crichton, Oregon State, 6-3, 273, 4.84, 2

Take-charge team player who leads verbally and by example, an obvious result of strong family foundation with two parents working multiple, low-paying jobs, including his father, Lucky, on an artificial leg. Crichton started 37 of the 38 games in which he played for Beavers and finished career with 165 tackles, 51 for a loss, and 22.5 sacks. Has good core strength, decent leverage, powerful hands and should be a DLE in an NFL 4-3 setup. Would need to add bulk for ballast as a 3-4 end.

Frankly: Tough, team-oriented player who is worth a high second-round pick and should transition into pro game quickly. Will be a persistent pest for blockers with his high-rev motor and active, violent hands.

5/44. Trent Murphy, Stanford, 6-5, 250, 4.86, 2

On-field play reflects off-field hobby -- steer wrestling. Murphy is country strong with great leverage and powerful hands that can hogtie or throw aside anything in reach. But, absent a lasso, he needs faster giddy-up in his get along. Impactful starter since 2011 and respected leader on a team of leaders. Missed final 10 games in 2010 with unknown leg injury. Maybe a steer kicked him.

Frankly: Needs to fit system, and vice versa. Superman if allowed to play in a phone booth, but possibly an NFL Clark Kent if expected to cover too much area.

6/52. Kareem Martin, North Carolina, 6-6, 272, 4.72, 2

When a player has all the physical ability necessary, but plays up to apparent potential only in his senior year, scouts raise a red flag. Martin had a classic red flag 2013 senior season with 20 tackles for a loss, including 11 sacks, after registering only four in each of two previous seasons. He sustained interest with excellent workouts and game at the Senior Bowl. Still, his value is as limited as his range, which is such that he may only be an asset as a base left end in a 4-3 alignment, where his strength can be disruptive.

Frankly: An NFL team should have specific need and believe he wasn't a one-season college wonder before spending a valuable second-round pick for a run-strong defender in a pass-happy league.

7/70. Marcus Smith, Louisville, 6-3, 251, 4.68, 2-3

While several defensive ends hope to prove they are able to double as an outside linebacker, Smith already has shown he can do that and more. How about an emergency quarterback? OK, it would need to be a real emergency, but he began college as a QB in 2010, moved to OLB within a week, then to DE in 2011. He eventually became Mr. Versatility on the front seven. He can drop, but seems more effective moving forward than he does in space.

Frankly: A maybe, baby. Reliable Jack of all trades, master of none who lacks exceptional speed (4.66 in 40 yards), athleticism or strength (23 reps with 225 pounds on bench).

8/80. Jackson Jeffcoat, Texas, 6-3, 247, 4.63, 2-3

Son of former Dallas Cowboys/Buffalo Bills star Jim Jeffcoat, Jackson is struggling to live up to the high expectations foisted upon descendants. Came back from injury-shortened 2012 to become the only FBS defensive lineman to lead his team in tackles last season while collecting a dozen sacks (59 career). Played with hand down and has dropped into coverage often enough to show ability to cover in an underneath zone. His fastest 40-yard clocking at combine was 4.61 seconds and his explosion was measured with a 36-inch vertical jump. Increased strength each year and must continue to do so (only 18 reps with 225 pounds on bench).

Frankly: What you see may be only a hint of what you get. Solid, hard-working player with great blood lines and possibly a big upside.

9/90. *Demarcus Lawrence, Boise State, 6-3, 251, 4.80, 3

Lawrence may have come out a year too early as he tries to cash in on a 2013 season in which he led the Mountain West Conference with 20.5 tackles for a loss and 10.5 sacks. That followed a similar 2012 with 13 TFL and 9.5 sacks, which followed one year in junior college. He has good explosion and closing ability, but is not as fast, strong or refined as scouts prefer.

Frankly: Interesting package of goods. College scheme found ways to create mismatches with him, which showed his versatility, but revealed no single trait that would be transcendent in the NFL. He will need to show that the sum of his parts can consistently add up to more than face value.

DEFENSIVE TACKLESPos.Rank/Overall Rank/Player/School/Height/Weight/40 time/Proj. Round
(*=Undersclassman)

1/18. *Louis Nix III, Notre Dame, 6-2, 331, 5.42, 1

Brick-strong body with nimble feet, Nix came off a solid 2012 season overweight entering 2013 and missed two games with knee tendinitis that should be monitored. He eventually played well enough to boost previous (2012) fourth-round draft projections up to first round. Plays with a high-rev motor that he needs to control to last four quarters, but is a highly coachable player and great teammate. Grew up with a football-sized family as the oldest of 11 siblings.

Frankly: He won't win sprints, finish marathons or be invited to compete in Dancing With the Stars, but whoever doesn't take him in the draft will watch him maul their offensive linemen two at a time for years.

2/21. Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh, 6-1, 285, 4.68, 1

Nicknamed Tiny only because of his height (or lack of, measured 6-foot, 3/4 inches at combine), Donald was the most dominant defensive college football player in 2013 after totaling 59 tackles, including 28.5 for a loss, 11 sacks, 16 QB hurries, four forced fumbles and a blocked extra point. He received the whole list of famous name awards to commemorate his season. Despite an array of schemes designed to slow him down, Donald was an unblockable force. He followed that season with great Senior Bowl workout and then stole the show at the combine where he blasted through 40 yards in 4.68, had a 32-inch vertical and benched 225 pounds 35 times.

Frankly: Can't miss, hyperactive disrupter dazes opponents at the snap with a dazzling John Randle-type skill set. Unlike Randle, who went undrafted then made Hall of Fame, Donald will begin his career as a first-round pick.

3/22. *Timmy Jernigan, Florida State, 6-2, 299, 5.06, 1

Oft-used reserve started only two games before 2013, then he finally received the chance to show he can consistently use his bullish strength to take on double teams and be disruptive inside. Jernigan has violent, active hands and does a good job with the usual moves (rip, swim), but has short arms (31 5/8) and must learn to disengage more quickly to avoid being detained by NFL linemen with, ah, good hands.

Frankly: Relentless pest will be an immediate, in-opponents-face, trouble maker for the team fortunate enough to grab him in the first round.

4/26. RaShede Hageman, Minnesota, 6-6, 310, 5.02, 1-2

Physically, Hageman has it all and then some, with a combination of brute force and quick feet that draws comparisons to J.J. Watt, the 2012 NFL Defensive Player of the Year (Houston). Former prep standout as tight end and basketball star, moved to the defensive line during his redshirt freshman season and literally grew into the position. After a dozen foster care homes, Hageman was adopted by lawyer couple, worked to overcome youthful anger issues and now, acknowledging his three-year-old son as a stabilizing factor, is ready to become a 24-year-old NFL rookie.

Frankly: All due respect to dramatic and impressive ascent in tough life, Hageman remains a boom-or-bust prospect. He has ability to be one of the best in the game, but will need the right team environment to make this work for all concerned.

5/40. *Stephon Tuitt, DT, Notre Dame, 6-6, 312, 4.92, 1-2

Intriguing bull of a prospect with plenty of natural ability that is enhanced by the attitude of an under-equipped overachiever. That may be the result of strict upbringing by mother, Tamar Bartlett, a deputy sheriff who demanded discipline. After starting slowly last year following sports hernia surgery, Tuitt had six of his career total 20 sacks. An interception last year and previous 77-yard fumble return TD reflect background as prep tight end. Surgery March 1 for a hairline fracture in his foot prevented him from working out at the combine or his pro day, although he did show his ample strength by hoisting 225 pounds 31 times on the bench.

Frankly: Quick, tough, massive man who will give his best, which should be worth at least a high second-round pick and a shot at being one of the most reliable interior defensive linemen in the NFL.

6/56. Dominique Easley, Florida, 6-2, 288, 4.93, 2

If health weren't a concern, Easley might be discussed as a potential top-10 pick, according to NFLDraftScout.com's Dane Brugler. But after two ACL tears, both on non-contact plays, durability is a major red flag. He came back from a left ACL in 2011, then blew out his right ACL last September. A healthy Easley has exceptional get-off quickness, constantly playing on the other side of the line of scrimmage.

Frankly: Buyer beware. In a draft awash with talent, some team will need to have a special feeling for Easley to spend a high pick based on potential not attained due to multiple, non-contact injuries.

7/65. Will Sutton, Arizona State, 6-0, 303, 5.36, 2-3

After missing the 2011 season for academic reasons, Sutton's play the next two years made that off-field issue, well, academic. He earned the Pac-12 Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year in both 2012 and 2013. Sutton has a compact build that gives him leverage advantage over most NFL offensive linemen. He has a knack of timing the snap and shows an explosive burst to slip through gaps. His father, Mickey, was a defensive back and punter for the Rams, Packers and Bills, 1986-90.

Frankly: Has the ability to fill a need and serve as a reliable starter at the minimum and those quick feet he inherited could give him longer career than dad had as a punt returner.

8/72. *Kelcy Quarles, South Carolina, 6-4, 297, 5.03, 2-3

Opponents focused on containing teammate Jadeveon Clowney (No. 1 ranked DE, player in draft) in 2013, so Quarles used his long arms, thick frame and explosive first step to abuse single coverage. He earned All-SEC First Team honors from the league's coaches and The Associated Press after finishing the regular season with a team-high in tackles-for-loss (13.5) and sacks (9.5).

Frankly: Not a sure thing, but some team will take him on the come, believing he will hone skills and awareness that are currently adequate, but not consistently near their point of potential.

9/78. *Ego Ferguson, LSU, 6-3, 315, 4.98, 2-3

Played as a reserve until his junior season last year when he took advantage of opportunity to collect 58 tackles, 3.5 for a loss and one sack. Ferguson flashes enough ability to make it seem that he should, could, would be more productive if -- fill in the blank. He is stout from head to toe with enough quickness, flexibility, strength and length to invite use at multiple up-front positions.

Frankly: Ferguson appears to be journeyman pro football material with a somewhat robotic manner that will get him only so far against an NFL full of great athletes.

10/83. DaQuan Jones, Penn State, 6-4, 322, 5.35, 2-3

God-given height, weight, quickness offer a massive foundation on which to build a great career. After shedding about 25 pounds to add stamina, he led the team in 2013 with 11.5 tackles for loss (minus-42 yards), had three sacks and a fumble recovery. Has the ability to get low and own a wide piece of real estate against two good blockers and when there is only one blocker he can dominate. Jones is just beginning to realize his potential and the value of hard work.

Frankly: Back in the day when rookies weren't expected to do too much too soon, players like Jones were golden. With patience and continued conditioning, some team could steal a future standout.

11/95. *Anthony Johnson, LSU, 6-2, 308, 5.24, 3

Interesting talent, starting with ability to sing National Anthem, as he did in high school, to others singing his praise for persevering when his family was displaced by Hurricane Katrina. So quick off the line he sometimes appears to jump the snap. Once he gets that mass moving, blockers have hell to pay. Has relied on natural ability and needs work on everything from basics (stop standing straight up!) to the fine points of foot and hand movement.

Frankly: A keeper. Put him on a team with savvy vets to challenge him and teach him the ropes and then reap the rewards.

Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, covered the NFL and the draft since the 1960s and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

 
I was looking it this seems to be a very good draft for good dynasty teams. Having the chance to go bpa after making the playoffs this year could really seperate some leagues. I was just looking at it and the 9-12 spots are just as good as the 5-8 slots. Good news for league champs I guess. Who knows, that guy you had rated fifth just might slide to you. If not, you might get and even better player.

 
ZWK said:
I've updated my WR metrics spreadsheet (which I initially described here). The current leaderboard (strictly by the numbers) is now:

Sammy Watkins

Mike Evans

Brandin Cooks

Jordan Matthews

Donte Moncrief

Marqise Lee

Allen Robinson

Davante Adams

Odell Beckham Jr.

Cody Latimer

Changes in this update:

  • Yards per target now covers the whole season, including bowl games
  • Combine 40 times are now an average of nflds & Xue's numbers (since an analysis of last year's numbers suggested that was more accurate)
  • Pro day 40 times, vertical, & broad jump are used for a few players (including Latimer)
  • The formula for production score was adjusted slightly, downgrading all players because of the leaguewide increase in passing numbers (Yd/g, Yd/Tar, Yd/TmAtt, TD/g, and long receptions per game)
Latimer is the only big mover compared to last time, joining the top ten thanks to his pro day. Also: Lee passes Robinson, Evans moves very close to Watkins, and Beckham shrinks the gap on the guys ahead of him.
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I just added one more number to the mix: age. That resulted in a little bit more reshuffling, so the top 10 now looks like this:

Watkins & Evans

Cooks

Moncrief & Matthews

Robinson & Lee

Adams

Beckham & Latimer

I'd say that anyone else who scores above a 0 in overall rating is at least worth taking a look at (but not worth getting too excited about); there are about 15-20 other WRs in that range.

 
Sabertooth said:
I was looking it this seems to be a very good draft for good dynasty teams. Having the chance to go bpa after making the playoffs this year could really seperate some leagues. I was just looking at it and the 9-12 spots are just as good as the 5-8 slots. Good news for league champs I guess. Who knows, that guy you had rated fifth just might slide to you. If not, you might get and even better player.
Click to expand...
Also good to finish last as picks 13 and 25 are valuable this year!

Gonna get a collection of very good players...

 
Rotoworld:

The Jets have scheduled an in-house visit with Texas Tech TE Jace Amaro.
The meeting will take place in the next few weeks, and beat writer Manish Mehta notes Amaro could be selected in the second-round. We have long been fans of Amaro's work, and even though he spent 90 percent of his time in the slot, he displayed a willingness to block when inline and in space. Amaro is extremely fluid and aigle as a receiver, which causes mismatches.

Source: NY Daily News
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ESPN's Steve Muench is intrigued by Kent State OW Dri Archer, but the evaluator has two major concerns about the speedster.
"Archer is a playmaker not just a track star but fumbles too much and concerned about ability to stay healthy," Weidl tweeted. As mentioned, Archer is a blur on the field. He ran his 4.26 second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine in 18 steps, tying Calvin Johnson's NFL Combine record for fewest needed; Johnson is nine inches taller. Archer's injury-plagued 2013 campaign hurt his draft stock (he ran for 1,429 yards during his junior season and fell to 527 in 2013), but you can't teach the speed he was born with.

Source: Steve Muench on Twitter
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ESPN's Todd McShay sees "Justin Hunter qualities" in Clemson's Martavis Bryant and believes the Tigers' WR could be good value pick.
"[bryant] didn't have a particularly productive college career (just 61 career catches) and was never a good fit in Clemson's offensive system," McShay wrote. "But he would be a perfect fit for an NFL system like the Ravens, as a big-armed QB like Joe Flacco could maximize Bryant's potential as a vertical route runner. Bryant has elite size and speed." Bryant is an athletic freak who, at 6-foot-5 and 200 pounds, ran unofficial forty times of 4.34 and 4.35 seconds at the combine (and posted a 39-inch vertical and a 10-yard split of 1.53 seconds). He's also been compared to the late Chris Henry.

Source: ESPN Insider
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ESPN's Mel Kiper believes Oklahoma WR Jalen Saunders could provide good mid-round value.
Saunders (5-foot-9, 160 pounds) is an undersized "but savvy and quick receiver" with a history of productivity, Kiper opined. The slot receiver "has a good sense of space and how to find cracks in coverage. ... but he needs to gain a little strength," Kiper wrote. The draft maven also tossed out Pittsburg State's John Brown (4.34 40-yard dash) as a deep WR sleeper.

Source: ESPN Insider
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A closer look at Bruce Ellington:

Gamecocks' Bruce Ellington, former Berkeley High star, is ready for his close-up at the NFL Combine

2014 NFL Draft Underclassmen Tracker

Excerpt:

Bruce Ellington WR South Carolina 5’9” 197 (Added 1/4/2014) – Ellington was a two sport star in high school who came to South Carolina to play wide receiver for the football team and point guard for the basketballers. In 2010, Ellington redshirted from the football team, but played in 30 games and averaged 12.8 points on the hardwood. Since then, Ellington has become more prominent on the gridiron, and is ultimately giving up basketball for a shot at the NFL. The redshirt junior receiver had his best season in 2013, with 49 catches for 775 yards and eight touchdowns, and is coming off a terrific performance in the Gamecocks’ bowl win over Wisconsin. His quickness in the open field, ability to play bigger than his listed size, and added value as a return man should help him land somewhere in the middle rounds of the upcoming draft.
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Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah believes South Carolina WR Bruce Ellington could be a slot guy available in the mid rounds of the draft.
"South Carolina WR Bruce Ellington-love his toughness, quickness and ball skills. Does get a little sticky at top of routes. Mid Round/slot guy," Jeremiah tweeted. The 5-foot-9, 197 pound receiver shows a ton of toughness, speed (4.45 forty) and instincts to be one of the more intriguing options at slot receiver, and as a return specialist at the next level. Bruce is Andre Ellington's cousin.

Source: Daniel Jeremiah on Twitter
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Scouts Inc.'s Kevin Weidl writes South Carolina WR Bruce Ellington has jumped out on tape during the postseason evaluation process.
"The first thing that pops out is his 'play speed.' Ellington is a quick starter who gets from zero to 60 mph in a hurry to stretch the field vertically, and he flashes an explosive burst out of his cuts while maintaining quality balance," Weidl writes, adding the receiver's frame is more similar to a running back's. Bruce is Andre Ellington's cousin.

Source: ESPN
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South Carolina junior WR Bruce Ellington will forgo his final season of eligibility and enter the NFL draft.
Ellington posted a huge game in the school's bowl win over Wisconsin, hauling in six passes for 140 yards and two touchdowns. If he was 50-50 on a decision prior to the game, that performance certainly did not hurt. Ellington, who also played basketball at South Carolina, appears to be in the third- to fourth-round range rather than a top-64 pick.

Source: Rixon Lane on Twitter
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Small Receivers, Big Impact

Excerpt:

Teams looking for a natural slot receiver should pass over Richardson in favor of Bruce Ellington (5-foot-9, 197), who looks and plays like a short, thick-built running back who just happens to always be split wide or in the slot. Ellington is similar to Ace Sanders, the feisty South Carolina receiver now playing for the Jaguars. Ellington likes to block, and Steve Spurrier uses him often as the lead blocker for screens to his teammates. Ellington even lines up tight to the line of scrimmage in red zone packages, where he is tasked to seal the edge or lock out an outside receiver. He does an outstanding job against defenders much bigger than him.

Ellington hauled in his share of screens, often ending his runs with a stiff-arm. While he was sometimes in the slot, Ellington was primarily an outside receiver who was asked to stretch defenses vertically. He ran a 4.45 40 at the Combine, but Ellington does not exhibit that Cooks-Richardson speed on game tape often, and he is not sudden and jittery like Cooks. He has very good hands, however, and reacts and adjusts well to the football. Like Richardson, he threw a few passes when Spurrier had one of his many wild hares. Ellington is also a guard on the Gamecocks basketball team, so it’s safe to call him multidimensional.

Ellington has a somewhat odd body type and skillset for the roles he played in college: he looked like he thought he weighed 225 pounds at times. He is a capable return man, and as a willing mix-it-up guy, special teams coaches will love him. Teams who want their third receiver to block early and often – the three NFC West leaders all come to mind – can find a role for Ellington.
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Andre Williams, Jordan Matthews lead overlooked combine stars

Excerpt:

Bruce Ellington, South Carolina, WRThe list of receivers who impressed at the combine could go on and on. Ellington (5-9 3/4, 197 pounds) looked exceptional with his quickness and body control. He is an athlete who just moves around really well, running right at 4.4 (4.45 officially). He also has 9 5/8-inch hands and caught the ball very well.
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What we learned: Takeaways from Day 2 at the NFL combine

Excerpt:

Ellington credits cousinArizona Cardinals running back Andre Ellington was among the most productive rookies in the NFL last season with more than 1,000 total yards. His cousin Bruce Ellington, South Carolina's point-guard-turned-wide-receiver, credits Andre for much of his competitiveness as an athlete. Ellington, the Gamecocks' top wide receiver the last two seasons, probably can't be had for the bargain Arizona got on his cousin, a sixth-round pick out of Clemson. The younger Ellington said he received a third-round draft grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board.
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Week 5 Pro Day Takeaways: Clowney sails, Henderson bailsExcerpt:

Athletic wideout Bruce Ellington (5-foot-9, 198) elected to stand on his Combine numbers but showed off his light feet and balance and natural hands during his positional workout. Ellington signed and starred as a freshman with South Carolina to play basketball so the development he's already shown as a route-runner had scouts buzzing.
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Rotoworld:

The Bills are hosting Notre Dame TE Troy Niklas for a pre-draft visit Tuesday.
Indiana WR Cody Latimer is also in the house at One Bills Drive. Each team is allotted 30 pre-draft visits. WGR 550 Buffalo's Joe Buscaglia considers Niklas to "definitely" be a fit for the Bills and could see the team targeting the tight end with its second-round pick. Niklas tips the scales at 6-foot-6 1/2 and 270 pounds and is arguably the top all-around, complete tight end in the draft.

Related: Bills
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NFL media analyst Bucky Brooks believes Arizona RB Ka'Deem Carey has the "potential to thrive" as a primary runner.
"If I had to point out one guy to watch moving forward, I would suggest keeping an eye on Arizona's Ka'Deem Carey, Brooks wrote. The Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year put up solid numbers from 2012-2013 rushing for 3,814 rushing yards and 42 touchdowns. Brooks notes that Carey's "relentless running style" is "ideal for the pro game." While many evaluators were disappointed in Carey's recent forty times (4.68 and 4.69),Carey still possess good instincts, burst and vision in the open field to be successful at the next level. Look for Carey's name to be called in the second round of the draft.

Source: NFL.com
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The Ravens will host FSU WR Kelvin Benjamin and EIU QB Jimmy Garoppolo for pre-draft visits, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Utah corner Keith McGill and Cal linebacker Khairi Fortt will also be visiting. Benjamin might be a bit of a stretch at No. 17 overall, but the team has plenty of ammunition to move up in the second-round. We would not be surprised if a team falls in love with Benjamin's vertical ability and frame.

Source: Baltimore Sun
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Rotoworld:

Draft insider Tony Pauline is reporting that the Vikings are "heavily leaning towards" taking LSU QB Zach Mettenberger in the second round because they want an LB such as Buffalo's Khalil Mack in the first.
The Vikes desperately need a franchise signal-caller, but they also have a huge need for an edge rusher capable of disrupting opposing passing games. Coach Mike Zimmer's nights are presumably interrupted with nightmares of being helplessly carved up by Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. Mack would afford the team a massive upgrade on the outside if Minnesota allots Mettenberger a grade not far below the top four QBs. Mettenberger could be a good fit in Norv Turner's vertical passing game, as Rotoworld's Josh Norris discussed in a recent "Draft Needs" video.

Source: Tony Pauline on Twitter
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Faust said:
Rotoworld:

Draft insider Tony Pauline is reporting that the Vikings are "heavily leaning towards" taking LSU QB Zach Mettenberger in the second round because they want an LB such as Buffalo's Khalil Mack in the first.
The Vikes desperately need a franchise signal-caller, but they also have a huge need for an edge rusher capable of disrupting opposing passing games. Coach Mike Zimmer's nights are presumably interrupted with nightmares of being helplessly carved up by Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. Mack would afford the team a massive upgrade on the outside if Minnesota allots Mettenberger a grade not far below the top four QBs. Mettenberger could be a good fit in Norv Turner's vertical passing game, as Rotoworld's Josh Norris discussed in a recent "Draft Needs" video.

Source: Tony Pauline on Twitter
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Mettenberger is starting to get the feel of a guy who a whole lot of teams would be happy with in round 2. Those guys usually end up in round 1 before it is all said and done.

Wouldn't be surprised to see Mettenberger have a late rise up draft boards similar to the way Joe Flacco went from consensus 2nd or 3rd rounder to mid-1st.

 
It is a deep draft. I think it would be a shame if my team took Mettenberger in the 2nd round over some more talented non-QB prospects. If they took him that high, the organization may feel that they need to give him 3 years to prove himself like Christian Ponder. Are they going to pass on QB prospects like Mariota or Hunley in the future because Mettenberger is their guy. Vikings already passed on a couple of good QB prospects in 2012 draft even though they coached them in the Senior bowl. Personally I don't believe his performance this year warrants a 2nd round grade. http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2014/03/draft-debate-zach-mettenberger/

 
Rotoworld:

CBS Sports' Dane Brugler tweeted on Tuesday that he'd be "very surprised" if Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel was available when Oakland went on the clock at No. 5.
Brugler believes the Texans will take UCF's Blake Bortles at No. 1 followed by Manziel either going to Jacksonville (No. 3) or Cleveland (No. 4). He added an interesting note on the Browns' pick: "I'll be shocked if Sammy [Watkins] is the pick at 4 and Manziel is definitely in play." Cleveland has been a sporadic destination of Watkins' in mock drafts.

Source: Dane Brugler on Twitter
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Big Board: 2014 draft class stocked with talent to fit new NFL

by Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

The 2014 NFL Draft has been characterized by media and NFL personnel as the deepest talent pool in years. Perhaps even more important, this class is especially rich in the premium positions valued in today's NFL.

As the league continues to gravitate toward the passing game, quarterbacks, receivers, left tackles, pass rushers and safeties have increased in value. These positions happen to be the strongest position groups of the 2014 class. On the other hand, this is a weaker than average year for traditional run-stuffing defensive tackles, inside linebackers and running backs.

My Big Board is not a mock draft, and does not factor in team needs. It is simply a ranking of the best 64 prospects in the country.

(*-denotes underclassman)

1. Jadeveon Clowney*, DE, South Carolina (6-feet-5, 266 pounds): There is no question Clowney failed to live up to expectations in 2013 from a statistical standpoint but as he demonstrated at the combine and at his pro day, the South Carolina star has a once-in-a-generation combination of size and explosiveness. Whether at defensive end or outside linebacker in a 3-4 alignment, he'll make an immediate impact in the NFL -- precisely why he has been my top-rated prospect since last spring.

2. Greg Robinson*, OT, Auburn (6-5, 332): Physical and tenacious, Robinson is a grizzly bear in the running game, mauling opponents with an exciting blend of size, strength and athleticism. Auburn's reliance on the running game, however, provided Robinson few opportunities in pass protection. With some polish, he could prove to be an Orlando Pace-like presence in the NFL.

3. Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo (6-3, 251): With an FBS-record 16 career forced fumbles and record-tying 75 tackles for loss, Mack's statistics jump off the page. Against the most gifted opponents he faced this past season (Ohio State, Baylor, Connecticut), it was his game that jumped off the screen. He shaved more than a tenth of a second off of his 40-yard time during his pro day, demonstrating the athleticism to intrigue scouts from 3-4 and 4-3 teams. That versatility will almost certainly land him a spot in the top six. As I've been reporting since January, some even view him as a dark horse candidate for the Texans at No. 1 overall.

4. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M (6-5, 308): The son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, Jake proves the cliché -- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. He played well at left tackle last season after starring at right tackle for three years. Like his father, he projects well to any position along the offensive line. While perhaps not an elite athlete, Matthews is a terrific football player, demonstrating impressive technique, strength and consistency.

5. Sammy Watkins*, WR, Clemson (6-1, 211): Watkins lacks the elite size that helped A.J. Green, Julio Jones and Calvin Johnson earn top-six selections since 2007, but he does have virtually everything else -- including instant acceleration, impressive body control and the natural hands to pluck the ball outside of his frame. Watkins could go as high as No. 2 to the St. Louis Rams.

6. Teddy Bridgewater*, QB, Louisville (6-2, 214): There is no sense in sugarcoating it -- Bridgewater was disappointing during his March 17 pro day, showing less zip and accuracy than in any game I saw over his three seasons as a starter for the Cardinals. Rather than sling the ball with confidence, he threw tentatively, pushing the ball toward targets and forcing them to adjust too often. A case of nerves with an estimated 100 scouts in attendance isn't enough to drop him from my top spot among quarterbacks, especially given that Bridgewater previously impressed with his poise and accuracy during big games. Due to his accuracy and success in a pro-style scheme which asked him to come to the line of scrimmage with multiple plays and pick the correct one based on the defense, I believe Bridgewater to be the most pro-ready quarterback of the class.

7. Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA (6-5, 255): Barr's emergence as an elite NFL prospects after languishing as a running back early in his college career has been well documented. Barr exploded in 2012 in his first season on the defensive side of the ball and backed it up with another spectacular campaign in 2013 -- 65 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and five forced fumbles, earning him the Lott IMPACT Trophy. His burst and bend around the corner make him an immediate threat as 3-4 rush linebacker. He shaved nearly a quarter second off of his combine 40-yard time at UCLA's pro day, clocking in at 4.44 seconds and improved his numbers in the bench press from 14 to 19.

8. Blake Bortles*, QB, Central Florida (6-5, 232): A prototypically built pocket passer with good awareness, athleticism and arm talent, Bortles looks the part of an NFL star quarterback. He also played well against top talent (including South Carolina, Penn State and Baylor) and impressed me with his willingness to compete at the combine. He was good -- not great -- during his workout in Indianapolis and his March 19 pro day, demonstrating plenty of velocity but inconsistent accuracy, especially on the deep ball. Bortles did show improved footwork in his pro day workout, evidence that he may be just scratching the surface of his potential.

9. Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State (5-11, 199): Quick feet, loose hips and a fluid turning motion make Dennard a classic cover corner capable of shutting down half the field. Dennard allowed only three completions in 31 passes of 15-plus yards last season, and was recognized with the Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back. A solid workout in Indianapolis eased concerns about his straight-line speed. Critics of his overall athleticism were rebuked when Dennard posted an 11-foot-2 broad jump -- which would have tied Baylor running Lache Seastrunk for the longest recorded from any player tested at the 2014 combine.

10. Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State (6-0, 202): With the NFL increasingly favoring offenses, the value of playmakers on either side of the ball has never been higher. Gilbert led the Big 12 with seven interceptions in 2013 and returned six kickoffs for touchdowns over his career. There are other defensive backs in this class who offer a more well-rounded game, but in terms of size, agility and speed, no cornerback offers a more intriguing skill set than the Cowboys star.

11. C.J. Mosley, OLB, Alabama (6-2, 234): While a bit undersized, Mosley might be the best pound-for-pound player in the draft. Athletic and instinctive, he is a true three-down linebacker capable of making plays against the run and pass. Mosley lacks the bulk scouts want in a pass rusher but his awareness in coverage is special. While the tape is phenomenal, Mosley has undergone multiple surgeries (knee, shoulder) over his career and could be the latest Alabama player to receive medical red flags from some evaluators.

12. Mike Evans*, WR, Texas A&M (6-5, 231): In dominating SEC competition the past two seasons, Evans has earned comparisons to Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Vincent Jackson, exhibiting a shocking combination of size, strength and deceptive speed. He is a nightmare to defend in jump-ball situations, a trait teams are finding increasingly valuable with the size of cornerbacks growing throughout the NFL. Evans sat on his numbers after a strong combine workout, but looked sharp in his cuts and displayed soft hands catching the ball from Johnny Manziel at their private pro day.

13. Zack Martin, OL, Notre Dame (6-4, 308): The vast majority of Martin's school-record 52 career starts came at left tackle but his squareish frame and 32¼-inch arms will earn him a projection inside to guard for many. Regardless of where he lines up, Martin plays with the controlled aggression I love along the offensive line, latching on and controlling opponents with excellent strength. Martin was the best player on the field in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.

14. Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh (6-1, 285): Given the way he dominated competition in the ACC, at the Senior Bowl and at the combine, no player has enjoyed a steadier rise up draft boards this year than Donald. His size likely limits him to a three-technique role in a 4-3 alignment but given the NFL's increasing reliance on the pass, he is entering the league at the perfect time to star in just this capacity.

15. Ryan Shazier*, OLB, Ohio State (6-1, 237): Shazier may lack elite size but his instincts, speed and bone-jarring hits make him a fearful defender that offenses must account for on every snap. Statistics don't always tell the story, but they do with Shazier, whose 143 tackles, including an eye-popping 22½ tackles for loss, not only led the Big Ten last season, they combined to rank among the best seasons from any Buckeyes defender over the past quarter century. Shazier's unique explosiveness also came through in tests. His 42-inch vertical jump led all participants at the 2014 combine and his 10-foot-10 broad jump ranked fourth. Shazier was also unofficially clocked at a staggering 4.36 seconds in the 40 at his March 7 pro day.

16. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan (6-7, 309): Massive, durable and ridiculously athletic for the position, Lewan's talent is obvious. The former defensive lineman plays with the tenacity and physicality you would expect but remains overly reliant on his natural tools. Further, he sometimes allows his emotions to get the better of him, too often drawing silly penalties throughout his career. His reputation as an instigator wasn't helped with news that he's facing three misdemeanor assault charges based on an incident outside of a bar in Ann Arbor hours after the Wolverines lost to Ohio State last season. Lewan has top-10 talent but in order to maximize his potential, he'll need to show improved maturity in the NFL.

17. Johnny Manziel*, QB, Texas A&M (6-0, 207): Manziel's vision, elusiveness and accuracy on the move make him a magician in the improvisational game. Red flags were raised with mediocre performances against LSU and Missouri to end the regular season, however, as each team was able to contain his backyard style of play by penning him in the pocket. Unable to create passing lanes with his feet, Manziel struggled with anticipation and accuracy. While there were no defenders at his March 27 pro day, Manziel did very well during a scripted 65-pass throwing regimen -- all while taking snaps from under center.

18. Kony Ealy*, DE, Missouri (6-4, 273): While teammate Michael Sam generates more media attention, scouts are increasingly intrigued by Ealy due to his impressive combination of size and athleticism. He led all defensive linemen at the combine with a 6.83-second time in the 3-cone drill -- a test designed to show change-of-direction ability, and shaved more than a fifth of a second off of his combine 40 time (4.92) at his pro day (4.70). He remains a bit rough around the edges, but Ealy is a highly versatile defender who projects well to the 4-3 and 3-4 alike.

19. Timmy Jernigan*, Florida State (6-2, 299): Jernigan played a critical role in the Seminoles' run to the BCS title, showing a unique burst to penetrate gaps as well as the leverage and strength to hold up against the run. He has a powerful frame that makes him well-suited to handling interior duties in the 4-3 or 3-4 alignment and has exciting upside.

20. Marqise Lee*, WR, Southern Cal (6-0, 192): A nagging left knee injury hampered Lee for much of the 2013 season, robbing the 2012 Biletnikoff Award winner of his trademark elusiveness and acceleration. Finally healthy in the Las Vegas Bowl against Fresno State, Lee showed off his playmaking ability, hauling in seven passes for 118 yards and two scores. Lee didn't look as dynamic during the combine, however, and elected not to try to improve upon his somewhat pedestrian 4.52 second 40-yard dash time at his March 12 pro day, increasing concern about his focus and long-term durability.

21. Calvin Pryor*, FS, Louisville (5-11, 207): Pryor was overshadowed a bit by Bridgewater with the Cardinals, but his stock will climb once scouts turn their attention to the instinctive and hard-hitting defender. He measured in smaller (listed at 6-2, 208 by the Cardinals' official website) and slower than scouts would have liked at the combine but certainly plays big and fast.

22. Louis Nix III*, DT, Notre Dame (6-2, 331): Though neither his combine nor pro day workout necessarily drew oohs and ahhs from scouts for aesthetic (or athletic) qualities, the portly nose guard proved during drills that he is fully recovered from the knee injury that ended his collegiate career prematurely. Stout, strong and surprisingly quick, Nix is the best nose guard of the 2014 draft -- a designation that could earn him a spot in the top 20.

23. Eric Ebron*, TE, North Carolina (6-4, 250): Ebron has a jaw-dropping combination of size and athleticism that has earned comparisons to 49ers star Vernon Davis. Like Davis, however, Ebron struggles with consistency, relying too much on his athleticism rather than dedicating himself to learning the finer techniques of the position. Some team may very well gamble earlier on Ebron's incredible upside than my ranking indicates, but he drops too many easy passes for a spot in the top 15 for me.

24. Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State (5-10, 189): Cooks has enjoyed quite the past six months -- winning the Biletnikoff as the nation's top receiver and then $100,000 at the combine from Adidas for running the fastest 40-yard dash time for anyone wearing a pair of the company's cleats. The real winner, however, could be the NFL team that takes the dynamic athlete in the first round.

25. Hasean Clinton-Dix*, FS, Alabama (6-1, 208): While Pryor ranks as my top all-around player at the position, Clinton-Dix has the fluidity, instincts and ball skills (seven interceptions in 19 career starts) to earn the title of the draft's best coverage safety. Clinton-Dix isn't without red flags, however. He flashes rather than dominates and wasn't as athletic during combine drills as expected. It is also worth noting how few of Alabama's highly regarded defensive backs have lived up to their draft status since leaving Nick Saban's tutelage.

26. Stephon Tuitt*, DL, Notre Dame (6-5, 304): Tuitt began his junior campaign out of shape (after missing spring due to hernia surgery) but played better as the year went on. Diagnosed with a Jones fracture in his foot at the combine, Tuitt was unable to work out in Indianapolis or at Notre Dame's pro day. Instead, he performed for scouts during a personal pro day and has since undergone surgery to repair the fracture. When healthy, Tuitt has shown a combination of size, strength and athleticism to earn comparisons to Richard Seymour from some scouts.

27. Dee Ford, DE/OLB, Auburn (6-2, 252): Ford dominated the Senior Bowl with his burst off the edge and surprising power. He has also shown intriguing agility when asked to drop into coverage, making him a candidate for virtually every team in the NFL. Medical red flags were raised at the combine due to an old back injury, but he worked out quite well at his March 4 pro day. If teams are satisfied with his medical, Ford is a cinch for the first round.

28. Odell Beckham Jr.*, WR, LSU (5-11, 198): Given the competition he faced in the SEC, it is a testament to Beckham's athleticism that he stood out as a big-play threat throughout his career. It is the overall improved concentration and consistency he demonstrated in his first season in Cam Cameron's pro-style offense, however, that makes him such an easy projection to the NFL. Beckham's well-built frame and explosiveness make him a potentially dynamic receiver and returner.

29. Jason Verrett, CB, TCU (5-9, 189): Verrett lacks the size so en vogue in today's NFL, but agility and ball skills never go out of style for cornerbacks. While light, Verrett is scrappy and tenacious, making him an ideal nickel corner with the tackling ability to threaten on an occasional blitz. He wowed at the combine with his speed but also raised concerns, announcing that he will undergo surgery after his pro day to repair a torn labrum.

30. Xavier Su'a-Filo*, G, UCLA (6-4, 307): Despite playing out of position at left tackle due to injuries to teammates, Su'a-Filo was voted the top offensive lineman in the Pac-12 by those who would know -- the conference's defensive linemen. Quick, powerful and balanced, he's equally effective driving defenders off the ball in the running game or settling in pass protection.

31. Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State (6-2, 214): Carr's staggering production (68.2 completion percentage, 50 TDs, 8 INTs) was certainly inflated by head coach Tim DeRuyter's QB-friendly spread attack and Fresno State's talented receiving corps, but any questions about his talent were put to rest with a stellar Senior Bowl week and an eye-popping pro day workout. In short, there is no doubt that Carr is the most gifted thrower in this year's draft class. But there are questions about his poise, in part due to the fact that he was 0-2 in bowl games with the Bulldogs.

32. Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU (6-3, 243): Van Noy may not be the most physical linebacker in the draft, but he might just be the most efficient. As he demonstrated throughout a spectacular career in Provo and again at the Senior Bowl, he's just as slippery and savvy in attacking the line of scrimmage as he is in dropping back into coverage.

The next 32Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech

Cyrus Kouandjio*, OT, Alabama

Jimmie Ward, FS, Northern Illinois

Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia

Demarcus Lawrence, DE/OLB, Boise State

Troy Niklas*, TE, Notre Dame

Bradley Roby*, CB, Ohio State

Donte Moncrief*, WR, Mississippi

Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota

Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, Eastern Illinois

Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State

Trent Murphy, DE/OLB, Stanford

DaQuan Jones, DT, Penn State

Austin Seferian-Jenkins*, TE, Washington

Allen Robinson*, WR, Penn State

Davante Adams*, WR, Fresno State

William Sutton, DT, Arizona State

Kelvin Benjamin*, WR, Florida State

Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State

Bishop Sankey*, RB, Washington

Marcus Roberson*, CB, Florida

David Yankey*, G, Stanford

Tre Mason*, RB, Auburn

Marcus Martin*, C, Southern Cal

Bruce Ellington*, WR, South Carolina

Paul Richardson*, WR, Colorado

Marcus Smith, WR, Louisville

Carl Bradford*, ILB, Arizona State

Deone Bucannon, SS, Washington State

Trevor Reilly, OLB, Utah

Gabe Jackson, G, Mississippi State

Terrence Brooks, FS, Florida State
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Rotoworld:

CBS Sports' Pete Prisco believes UCF QB Blake Bortles is the top prospect at the position.
"I like my quarterbacks big, strong and playing in the pocket. That's why my preference is Bortles," Prisco begins. "But he will take time. He has the most upside, but it's not going to happen overnight, and we know how impatient NFL owners are these days." Teddy Bridgewater checks in behind Bortles for Prisco, with Johnny Manziel No. 3. The NFL writer is not sure any of the three will be an all-pro.

Source: CBS Sports
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CBS Sports' Dane Brugler believes that Texas A&M WR Mike Evans to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 7 is more likely to happen after Mike Williams was traded to the Bills.
"WR Mike Evans to the Buccaneers at 7 just became much more likely," Brugler tweeted. Now that WR Mike Williams has been traded to the Buffalo Bills, it leaves a hole across the way from from Vincent Jackson. Mike Evans would definitely be an upgrade to the WR unit and would provide McCown with two big body receivers, similar to what he had in Chicago with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. The Bucs now look like a ideal landing spot for Mike Evans services at No. 7.

Source: Dane Brugler on Twitter
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NFL.com's Gil Brandt tweeted there is still "A LOT" of buzz around Pitt QB Tom Savage.
Per Brandt, Savage has had nine workouts with teams so far and has seven more scheduled this month. "People will be surprised how high he goes" in the draft, Brandt tweeted. Savage is a big body with a big arm, but had poor pocket movement this year and questionable decision making. Some of the negatives have been attributed to a terrible offensive line, however.

Source: Gil Brandt on Twitter
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ESPN's Mel Kiper believes Georgia Southern RB Jerick McKinnon would be a steal beyond the third-round.
McKinnon is easily the top athlete among draft eligible running backs and display SEC caliber speed against Florida. He comes from a team that ran the triple-option, so McKinnon might need some time to get comfortable in a more traditional scheme that forces different reads. While he displayed pass protection during the pre-draft process, there aren't many exposures on film. McKinnon is a converted quarterback.

Source: Mel Kiper on Twitter
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The Lions hosted Clemson WR Martavis Bryant for a pre-draft visit on Thursday.
NFL teams are allotted 30 such pre-draft visits. "It was good to show people what I could do," Bryant said. "Some people though I’d run a 4.5, but I always knew I was fast. It was just good to get out there and showcase what I can do along with all the other great players out there." Being paired across from a superstar WR, in this case Calvin Johnson, is old hat for Bryant, who was Sammy Watkins' running mate in college. Bryant also knows his strengths pretty well. Asked what the best aspect of his game is, the wideout said: "The deep ball."

Source: DetroitLions.com
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Former NFL scout John Middlekauff believes the Tennessee Titans should target Ohio State RB "Carlos Hyde in the second" or Washington RB "Bishop Sankey in the third" round.
"Not a great RB year, Carlos Hyde in the 2nd or Bishop Sankey in the 3rd," Middlekauff tweeted in response to who the Titans should replace Chris Johnson with. Johnson will meet with Titans GM Ruston Webster on Friday, which could mean the end of his Johnson's journey in Tennessee. Johnson is currently due $8 million in 2014. Whisenhunt is going to need a strong running game to counter a questionable passing attack. If the Titans are looking for a perfect blend of power and elusiveness, Hyde could be an option in the second round. Bishop Sankey may not have the ideal size or frame like Hyde, but he's a perfect all-purpose back that can be effective on passing downs similar to Giovani Bernard skill set.

Source: John Middlekauff on Twitter
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2014 NFL draft position rankings: Carlos Hyde headlines running back class

By Doug Farrar

There’s no question that the running back position has been devalued in recent years at the NFL level. While college backs continue to drive their offenses at major schools, many of those players are in for a rude awakening when they look to cash in at the next level. The 2013 draft marked the first since 1963 in which not one running back was selected in the first round, and the concept of the franchise back has become a thing of the past on most NFL teams.

It’s a pass-happy league for the most part, which means that backs who want to become cornerstone players must diversify. Gone are the days when Jim Brown could get away with not blocking for his quarterback — these days, pass protection is a big deal, if you want to stay on the field and on the roster. And the more routes you can run, the better — especially if you can do so from different points in the formation.

Adding to that depressing news for this year’s class of backs is that not one of them brings the kind of transcendent, no-doubt talent you’d expect of a first-rounder. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t several backs who will make a big difference in their new homes — and here are the 10 backs we think have the best chance of doing so.
1. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State: The first running back ever to run for over 1,000 for a team coached by Urban Meyer, Hyde may be the only back in this draft class combining the kind of power and speed that would make him a franchise back at the NFL level. Hyde hit 1,521 yards on just 208 carries in his senior season, despite missing the season’s first three games due to suspension following an alleged assault. At 6-foot and 230 pounds, he’s got legitimate power up the middle. What makes him special, and what showed up on tape so often last season, is that Hyde also has enough short-area speed and “wiggle” to elude tacklers.

“I think my game is what separates me,” Hyde said at the scouting combine. “What I bring to the table? I bring that passion. I play with a lot of heart. I feel like I bring that spark to the offense. When the offense needs something going, I feel like I can make it happen.”

He proved that down the stretch, gaining at least 100 yards in his last nine collegiate games, including two 200-yard performances.

Draft projection: Round 2

2. Ka’Deem Carey, Arizona: Carey ran for 1,885 yards on 349 carries last year, but he had proven to be the workhorse of the Wildcats offense the season before, when he led the nation with 1,929 yards, and 2,232 yards from scrimmage. A decade ago, such numbers would have virtually guaranteed Carey a first-round grade, but aside from the general dissolution of his positional value, Carey is also dealing with a lack of next-level speed on the field, the perception that backs in a Rich Rodriguez offense aren’t prepped for success and a host of off-field incidents in his past. But his productivity and overall skillset should see him go fairly early in the second day of the draft.

Draft projection: Round 2

3. Tre Mason, Auburn: “If I had to compare [myself to somebody], it would probably be somebody like Marshawn Lynch, along the lines of that. I can beat you inside, outside, anyway. Over you, through you, around you, find a way to get six points.”

That’s what Mason said of his running style when asked about it at the combine, and he definitely found ways to succeed in 2013, gaining 1,816 yards and scoring 23 rushing touchdowns. He broke Bo Jackson’s single-season school rushing mark on his last collegiate carry, and goes to the next level as an interesting option for a number of reasons. Mason stands under 5-9, but at 207 pounds and with 4.5 speed, he’s got a good palette of skills for the position. The Lynch comparison is a bit of a stretch — he’s a bit more like Ray Rice — but with a lot of good tape against SEC defenses, Mason could be the second (or even the first) back taken.

Draft projection: Round 2-3

4. Bishop Sankey, Washington: Sankey gained 3,309 yards and scored 36 rushing touchdowns on 616 carries in 2012 and ’13, despite the fact that he had a quarterback in Keith Price who was inconsistent at best, an average offensive line and a head coach in Steve Sarkisian with one foot out the door. Sankey isn’t a pure power back, though he understands how to bounce off contact and pick up extra yards, and his receiving ability is something that many pro teams would find valuable. In a new NFL that values the versatile back, Sankey’s ahead of the game.

Draft projection: Round 2-3

5. Devonta Freeman, Florida State: From a pure physical perspective, there’s a lot to like about Freeman and his game. He stands 5-8 and weighed 206 at the combine, and he plays both bigger and smaller than that — bigger in the way he’ll take on blockers and fight for extra yard, and smaller in the way he’ll burst through the hole as if he weighs about 180 pounds. Freeman averaged 5.9 yards per carry in each of the last two seasons, and he has real potential as a rotation back who can also excel in the passing game.

Draft projection: Round 3

6. Terrance West, Towson: Strength of opponent questions will undoubtedly dog West, but when you isolate his skillset, it becomes clear that the 5-9, 225-pound back can get to the edge in a big hurry, and has an impressive second burst for his size. Academic issues kept him out of the big schools, but as a power back, West doesn’t have much of a learning curve.

Draft projection: Round 3-4

7. Jeremy Hill, LSU: At 6-1 and 233 and having faced SEC defenses throughout his collegiate career, Hill certainly looks the part of an NFL running back. And his 1,401 yards and 16 touchdowns against those defenses in 2013 speak to his potential production at the next level. But he might be a bit of a one-trick pony when more is demanded of him — he’s a good straight-line power back, but could struggle to get free when he’s the focus of NFL defenses. And the host of off-field red flags won’t help his prospects at all — Hill pled guilty to battery charges in 2013 while he was already on probation.

“I don’t think it’s unfair at all,” Hill said at the combine about the perceptions people may have of him. “I put myself in those situations. I can’t really focus on that. All I can do is make the right decisions going forward and put myself in the best position possible. I’m not really focusing on those things. I’ll be opening eyes and getting them the information they need, but I’m not worried about those things, just moving forward.”

Draft projection: Round 4-5

8. Andre Williams, Boston College: Williams has certainly seen his share of media exposure, and some analysts believe him to be among the best backs in this class. He led the nation with 355 carries and 2,177 yards in 2013, and that was on a team with few other legitimate offensive weapons. Williams’ tape, however, shows a back who takes time to get up to full speed, and though he has good size at 5-11 and 230, there are some questions as to how he would best fit in the NFL.

The good news is that Williams knows he’ll have to get better.

“I think my game is going to have to evolve,” he said in February. “I think I’m going to be called upon to catch the ball more, pass protect more, know what’s going on, on defense more. Make reads on fronts and coverages faster than before. That’s part of becoming a professional from the amateur level. Upping your level of preparation.”

Draft projection: Round 4-5

9. Lache Seastrunk, Baylor: Seastrunk was ranked among the top handful of prospects coming out of high school, but he sat out the 2011 season after transferring from Oregon back to his home state of Texas. He became the first back ever to run for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons for Baylor, and he’s a dynamic power back at 5-10 and 200 pounds. However, work will need to be done on his vision and quickness before Seastrunk can blow it up in the pros.

Draft projection: Round 4-5

10. Jerick McKinnon, Georgia Southern: It’s a bit of a projection to tag McKinnon with a pure running back role, because he did a bit of everything in college — from quarterback to H-back to fullback to return man. However, when in the backfield in that more defined role, McKinnon is sure to interest many NFL teams because he runs with power and speed (even if he has a nebulous understanding of the specifics of the position), and in a league where positional versatility is valuable, he could be a surprise player in the right offense.

Draft projection: Third day
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