Almas_4th_Child
Footballguy
Curious if we could get some updated lists....other than Blooms
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2008 Rookie Draft Picks (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Iron_Far
- Start date
I was working on mine just yesterday.Not too much movement among the QBs. Jonathan Stewart drops a bit, but still nowhere near RB4. I've adjusted the value of all the RBs after the big 3 because I thought they were a bit high. The order remains mostly the same with slight changes among 5-8. The WRs values have been adjusted, and some guys have been moved up or down as I've done more research. I had unfairly dropped Bowman in my rankings to the point where his potential far exceeded that of the guys he was ranked around.The tiers I had are definitely not as black and white now, but the arbitrary 1-100 scale will show where the value can be had.
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Almas_4th_Child
Footballguy
Can you post them? I respect your opinion.
corpcow
Footballguy
Well, as long as it doesn't get personal, I think it's a good discussion to have. Like I said, there are no bulletproof candidates, and if we can do a good job of discussing their flaws, it will help all of us try to get a better handle on what the flaws actually are and how much it should impact our view on him, etc.I don't think there's anything wrong with asking someone to defend their position.Your last 10 or so posts in this thread seem to be questioning someone else and making them defend their position.Every comment seems like it's from a courtroom trying to get the defendant to say something incriminating.Can't you guys just agree to disagree about McFadden?Let's move on.:my 2 cents:So because EBF is a good poster, i shouldnt question anything he says?I remember him saying similar things about AD last year as he is about Mcfadden this year(body type, that he might not be the best RB in the class). Yet he is here claiming that AD was one of the few RB's he ever saw as "bulletproof".
smotherhook
Footballguy
i am bumping this thread. i am now waiting on an updated list
EBF
Footballguy
My rankings haven't changed much in the past few weeks, but I have tweaked a few things. One major difference is that I've moved Chris Johnson up into my top 5. He's a bigger risk than the top tier receivers, but his upside warrants an early selection.
I would also move Matt Forte up, possibly into the top 10. I cooled off on him for a while, but I'm warming up again. I think I'd take him over Charles, Choice, and Smith if I were drafting today. I might even take him over Felix. He's kind of like a poor man's ADP. Tall body, but good skills and athletic ability.
I would also move Matt Forte up, possibly into the top 10. I cooled off on him for a while, but I'm warming up again. I think I'd take him over Charles, Choice, and Smith if I were drafting today. I might even take him over Felix. He's kind of like a poor man's ADP. Tall body, but good skills and athletic ability.
yellowdog
Footballguy
Brilliant!!!
Couch Potato
Footballguy
I can see the Bengals moving him up their draft board now. Their kind of guy.
Final pre-draft Rankings!
The lists are based upon the fantasy upside of these players in their best potential situation.
Inspired by Bloom's 'Rookie 100' and Fear & Loathing's Dynasty Rankings, I decided to lump all the Rookie QBs, RBs, WRs and TEs onto one list...
Top 100
(with arbitrary ranking scale!)
[93] RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*
[93] RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas*
[89] RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*
[78] RB Ray Rice, Rutgers*
[75] RB Felix Jones, Arkansas*
[73] WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State*
[73] WR James Hardy, Indiana*
[72] RB Kevin Smith, Central Florida*
[71] WR Limas Sweed, Texas
[69] RB Matt Forte, Tulane
[69] RB Jamaal Charles, Texas*
[69] WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
[65] QB Matt Ryan, Boston College
[65] RB Chris Johnson, East Carolina
[65] WR Mario Manningham, Michigan*
[63] WR Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*
[63] WR Andre Caldwell, Florida
[62] WR Early Doucet, LSU
[61] RB Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
[59] WR Keenan Burton, Kentucky
[59] WR DeSean Jackson, California*
[58] WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
[56] WR Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
[56] WR Donnie Avery, Houston
[55] QB Brian Brohm, Louisville
[55] RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia*
[55] WR Lavelle Hawkins, California
[54] TE Dustin Keller, Purdue
[53] WR Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
[53] WR Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin
[52] TE Fred Davis, USC
[51] RB Thomas Brown, Georgia
[51] WR William Franklin, Missouri
[49] QB Joe Flacco, Delaware
[48] RB Justin Forsett, California
[48] WR Steve Johnson, Kentucky
[47] WR Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
[47] WR Arman Shields, Richmond
[47] WR Darius Reynaud, West Virginia*
[47] WR Marcus Smith, New Mexico
[46] QB Chad Henne, Michigan
[46] WR Pierre Garcon, Mount Union
[45] RB Mike Hart, Michigan
[45] WR D.J. Hall, Alabama
[45] WR Harry Douglas, Louisville
[45] WR Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
[45] WR Adrian Arrington, Michigan*
[45] WR Marcus Monk, Arkansas
[45] TE Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M*
[44] QB Josh Johnson, San Diego
[44] RB Jalen Parlmele, Toledo
[44] WR Dorien Bryant, Purdue
[43] QB Andre Woodson, Kentucky
[43] RB Chauncey Washington, USC
[43] RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss
[42] WR Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[42] WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[42] WR Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[41] QB John David Booty, USC
[41] WR Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[41] WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[41] WR Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[40] RB Corey Boyd, South Carolina
[39] RB Allen Patrick, Oklahoma
[39] WR Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*
[39] WR Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
[39] TE John Carlson, Notre Dame
[38] WR Jaymar Johnson, Jackson State
[38] WR Davone Bess, Hawaii*
[37] QB Kevin O'Connell, San Diego State
[37] WR Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota
[37] WR Kevin Robinson, Utah State
[36] QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon
[36] RB Chad Simpson, Morgan State
[36] WR Jason Rivers, Hawaii
[36] WR Mark Bradford, Stanford
[36] WR Marcus Henry, Kansas
[36] WR Travis Brown, New Mexico
[36] WR James Banks, Carson Newman
[36] TE Brad Cottam, Tennessee
[35] WR Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)
[35] TE Jermichael Finley, Texas*
[35] RB Anthony Alridge, Houston
[35] RB Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State
[35] RB Xavier Omon, NW Missouri State
[34] QB Colt Brennan, Hawaii
[34] WR Todd Blythe, Iowa State
[34] WR Taj Smith, Syracuse*
[34] WR Maurice Purify, Nebraska
[34] WR Robert Jordan, California
[34] TE Kellen Davis, Michigan State
[33] RB Ryan Torain, Arizona
[32] WR Darnell Jenkins, Miami (FL)
[32] WR Brandon Breazell, UCLA
[32] WR Jabari Arthur, Akron
[32] WR Danny Amendola, Texas Tech
[31] RB Rafael Little, Kentucky
[31] RB Jacob Hester, LSU
[31] WR Michael Henderson, Georgia
[30] QB Eric Ainge, Tennessee
[30] RB Jehuu Caulcrick, Michigan State
[30] RB Kalvin McRae, Ohio
The lists are based upon the fantasy upside of these players in their best potential situation.
Inspired by Bloom's 'Rookie 100' and Fear & Loathing's Dynasty Rankings, I decided to lump all the Rookie QBs, RBs, WRs and TEs onto one list...
Top 100
(with arbitrary ranking scale!)
[93] RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*
[93] RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas*
[89] RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*
[78] RB Ray Rice, Rutgers*
[75] RB Felix Jones, Arkansas*
[73] WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State*
[73] WR James Hardy, Indiana*
[72] RB Kevin Smith, Central Florida*
[71] WR Limas Sweed, Texas
[69] RB Matt Forte, Tulane
[69] RB Jamaal Charles, Texas*
[69] WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
[65] QB Matt Ryan, Boston College
[65] RB Chris Johnson, East Carolina
[65] WR Mario Manningham, Michigan*
[63] WR Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*
[63] WR Andre Caldwell, Florida
[62] WR Early Doucet, LSU
[61] RB Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
[59] WR Keenan Burton, Kentucky
[59] WR DeSean Jackson, California*
[58] WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
[56] WR Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
[56] WR Donnie Avery, Houston
[55] QB Brian Brohm, Louisville
[55] RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia*
[55] WR Lavelle Hawkins, California
[54] TE Dustin Keller, Purdue
[53] WR Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
[53] WR Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin
[52] TE Fred Davis, USC
[51] RB Thomas Brown, Georgia
[51] WR William Franklin, Missouri
[49] QB Joe Flacco, Delaware
[48] RB Justin Forsett, California
[48] WR Steve Johnson, Kentucky
[47] WR Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
[47] WR Arman Shields, Richmond
[47] WR Darius Reynaud, West Virginia*
[47] WR Marcus Smith, New Mexico
[46] QB Chad Henne, Michigan
[46] WR Pierre Garcon, Mount Union
[45] RB Mike Hart, Michigan
[45] WR D.J. Hall, Alabama
[45] WR Harry Douglas, Louisville
[45] WR Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
[45] WR Adrian Arrington, Michigan*
[45] WR Marcus Monk, Arkansas
[45] TE Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M*
[44] QB Josh Johnson, San Diego
[44] RB Jalen Parlmele, Toledo
[44] WR Dorien Bryant, Purdue
[43] QB Andre Woodson, Kentucky
[43] RB Chauncey Washington, USC
[43] RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss
[42] WR Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[42] WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[42] WR Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[41] QB John David Booty, USC
[41] WR Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[41] WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[41] WR Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[40] RB Corey Boyd, South Carolina
[39] RB Allen Patrick, Oklahoma
[39] WR Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*
[39] WR Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
[39] TE John Carlson, Notre Dame
[38] WR Jaymar Johnson, Jackson State
[38] WR Davone Bess, Hawaii*
[37] QB Kevin O'Connell, San Diego State
[37] WR Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota
[37] WR Kevin Robinson, Utah State
[36] QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon
[36] RB Chad Simpson, Morgan State
[36] WR Jason Rivers, Hawaii
[36] WR Mark Bradford, Stanford
[36] WR Marcus Henry, Kansas
[36] WR Travis Brown, New Mexico
[36] WR James Banks, Carson Newman
[36] TE Brad Cottam, Tennessee
[35] WR Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)
[35] TE Jermichael Finley, Texas*
[35] RB Anthony Alridge, Houston
[35] RB Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State
[35] RB Xavier Omon, NW Missouri State
[34] QB Colt Brennan, Hawaii
[34] WR Todd Blythe, Iowa State
[34] WR Taj Smith, Syracuse*
[34] WR Maurice Purify, Nebraska
[34] WR Robert Jordan, California
[34] TE Kellen Davis, Michigan State
[33] RB Ryan Torain, Arizona
[32] WR Darnell Jenkins, Miami (FL)
[32] WR Brandon Breazell, UCLA
[32] WR Jabari Arthur, Akron
[32] WR Danny Amendola, Texas Tech
[31] RB Rafael Little, Kentucky
[31] RB Jacob Hester, LSU
[31] WR Michael Henderson, Georgia
[30] QB Eric Ainge, Tennessee
[30] RB Jehuu Caulcrick, Michigan State
[30] RB Kalvin McRae, Ohio
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Positional Rankings
(with arbitrary ranking scale!)
QBs
[65] Matt Ryan, Boston College
[55] Brian Brohm, Louisville
[49] Joe Flacco, Delaware
[46] Chad Henne, Michigan
[44] Josh Johnson, San Diego
[43] Andre Woodson, Kentucky
[41] John David Booty, USC
[37] Kevin O'Connell, San Diego State
[36] Dennis Dixon, Oregon
[34] Colt Brennan, Hawaii
[30] Eric Ainge, Tennessee
RBs
[93] Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*
[93] Darren McFadden, Arkansas*
[89] Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*
[78] Ray Rice, Rutgers*
[75] Felix Jones, Arkansas*
[72] Kevin Smith, Central Florida*
[69] Matt Forte, Tulane
[69] Jamaal Charles, Texas*
[65] Chris Johnson, East Carolina
[61] Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
[55] Steve Slaton, West Virginia*
[51] Thomas Brown, Georgia
[48] Justin Forsett, California
[45] Mike Hart, Michigan
[44] Jalen Parlmele, Toledo
[43] BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss
[43] Chauncey Washington, USC
[40] Corey Boyd, South Carolina
[39] Allen Patrick, Oklahoma
[36] Chad Simpson, Morgan State
[35] Anthony Alridge, Houston
[35] Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State
[35] Xavier Omon, NW Missouri State
[33] Ryan Torain, Arizona
[31] Rafael Little, Kentucky
[31] Jacob Hester, LSU
[30] Jehuu Caulcrick, Michigan State
[30] Kalvin McRae, Ohio
WRs
[73] Devin Thomas, Michigan State*
[73] James Hardy, Indiana*
[71] Limas Sweed, Texas
[70] Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
[65] Mario Manningham, Michigan*
[63] Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*
[63] Andre Caldwell, Florida
[62] Early Doucet, LSU
[59] Keenan Burton, Kentucky
[59] DeSean Jackson, California*
[58] Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
[56] Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
[56] Donnie Avery, Houston
[55] Lavelle Hawkins, California
[53] Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
[53] Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin
[51] William Franklin, Missouri
[48] Steve Johnson, Kentucky
[47] Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
[47] Arman Shields, Richmond
[47] Darius Reynaud, West Virginia*
[47] Marcus Smith, New Mexico
[46] Pierre Garcon, Mount Union
[45] Harry Douglas, Louisville
[45] D.J. Hall, Alabama
[45] Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
[45] Adrian Arrington, Michigan*
[45] Marcus Monk, Arkansas
[44] Dorien Bryant, Purdue
[42] Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[42] Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[42] Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[39] Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*
[39] Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
[38] Jaymar Johnson, Jackson State
[38] Davone Bess, Hawaii*
[37] Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota
[37] Kevin Robinson, Utah State
[36] Jason Rivers, Hawaii
[36] Mark Bradford, Stanford
[36] Marcus Henry, Kansas
[36] Travis Brown, New Mexico
[36] James Banks, Carson Newman
[35] Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)
[34] Todd Blythe, Iowa State
[34] Taj Smith, Syracuse*
[34] Maurice Purify, Nebraska
[34] Robert Jordan, California
[32] Darnell Jenkins, Miami (FL)
[32] Brandon Breazell, UCLA
[32] Jabari Arthur, Akron
[32] Danny Amendola, Texas Tech
[31] Michael Henderson, Georgia
TEs
[54] Dustin Keller, Purdue
[52] Fred Davis, USC
[45] Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M*
[39] John Carlson, Notre Dame
[36] Brad Cottam, Tennessee
[35] Jermichael Finley, Texas*
[34] Kellen Davis, Michigan State
(with arbitrary ranking scale!)
QBs
[65] Matt Ryan, Boston College
[55] Brian Brohm, Louisville
[49] Joe Flacco, Delaware
[46] Chad Henne, Michigan
[44] Josh Johnson, San Diego
[43] Andre Woodson, Kentucky
[41] John David Booty, USC
[37] Kevin O'Connell, San Diego State
[36] Dennis Dixon, Oregon
[34] Colt Brennan, Hawaii
[30] Eric Ainge, Tennessee
RBs
[93] Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*
[93] Darren McFadden, Arkansas*
[89] Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*
[78] Ray Rice, Rutgers*
[75] Felix Jones, Arkansas*
[72] Kevin Smith, Central Florida*
[69] Matt Forte, Tulane
[69] Jamaal Charles, Texas*
[65] Chris Johnson, East Carolina
[61] Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
[55] Steve Slaton, West Virginia*
[51] Thomas Brown, Georgia
[48] Justin Forsett, California
[45] Mike Hart, Michigan
[44] Jalen Parlmele, Toledo
[43] BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss
[43] Chauncey Washington, USC
[40] Corey Boyd, South Carolina
[39] Allen Patrick, Oklahoma
[36] Chad Simpson, Morgan State
[35] Anthony Alridge, Houston
[35] Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State
[35] Xavier Omon, NW Missouri State
[33] Ryan Torain, Arizona
[31] Rafael Little, Kentucky
[31] Jacob Hester, LSU
[30] Jehuu Caulcrick, Michigan State
[30] Kalvin McRae, Ohio
WRs
[73] Devin Thomas, Michigan State*
[73] James Hardy, Indiana*
[71] Limas Sweed, Texas
[70] Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
[65] Mario Manningham, Michigan*
[63] Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*
[63] Andre Caldwell, Florida
[62] Early Doucet, LSU
[59] Keenan Burton, Kentucky
[59] DeSean Jackson, California*
[58] Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
[56] Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
[56] Donnie Avery, Houston
[55] Lavelle Hawkins, California
[53] Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
[53] Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin
[51] William Franklin, Missouri
[48] Steve Johnson, Kentucky
[47] Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
[47] Arman Shields, Richmond
[47] Darius Reynaud, West Virginia*
[47] Marcus Smith, New Mexico
[46] Pierre Garcon, Mount Union
[45] Harry Douglas, Louisville
[45] D.J. Hall, Alabama
[45] Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
[45] Adrian Arrington, Michigan*
[45] Marcus Monk, Arkansas
[44] Dorien Bryant, Purdue
[42] Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[42] Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[42] Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[39] Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*
[39] Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
[38] Jaymar Johnson, Jackson State
[38] Davone Bess, Hawaii*
[37] Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota
[37] Kevin Robinson, Utah State
[36] Jason Rivers, Hawaii
[36] Mark Bradford, Stanford
[36] Marcus Henry, Kansas
[36] Travis Brown, New Mexico
[36] James Banks, Carson Newman
[35] Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)
[34] Todd Blythe, Iowa State
[34] Taj Smith, Syracuse*
[34] Maurice Purify, Nebraska
[34] Robert Jordan, California
[32] Darnell Jenkins, Miami (FL)
[32] Brandon Breazell, UCLA
[32] Jabari Arthur, Akron
[32] Danny Amendola, Texas Tech
[31] Michael Henderson, Georgia
TEs
[54] Dustin Keller, Purdue
[52] Fred Davis, USC
[45] Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M*
[39] John Carlson, Notre Dame
[36] Brad Cottam, Tennessee
[35] Jermichael Finley, Texas*
[34] Kellen Davis, Michigan State
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Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Final? Yeah, right.
Heh. ...yeah I may edit some of the numbers...Anyone care to sway me on any of the ranks? I'd be glad to discuss them as I haven't taken the time to full explain my rankings within my posts.Final? Yeah, right.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Thanks again for organizing these guys.
May as well use your rankings to own up to something I've been struggling with. I like Brohm as the QB to have the best career between these two. I think a combination of things culminated to make Ryan overrated and Brian underrated. Brohm is a pretty air tight prospect. Like everyone I expect Ryan to go first, but there's a little of the Cutler vs. Leinart debate involved here for me. I liked Cutler to have the better career even though I expected Leinart to go first. There's a few other parallels, too.
Seems way too low to me. I know that tier of RBs is a pain, but why do you grade (in parens) Felix so much higher than Johnson? I could see the ranking if the grading, arbitrary or not, was much tighter. I expect Johnson to be drafted before Felix, probably RB4. From there I think he lives up to it.
He's a good reason you may need to redo these again. A week from today he tries to put the rumors to rest.
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ditka85
Footballguy
Depending who drafts him, I really think Thomas Brown could surprise. He has all of the tools to be successful. If not for being injured and having to share time, I think we'd be talking about him in the top 5 RBs. I think I heard that he was the strongest player, pound for pound, at Georgia.
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broncofan13000
Footballguy
Kevin Smith Pro Day Video
Kevin Smith looked very good at his pro-day....i think he can be a great pick in fantasy drafts, especially since he's going around 1.8 (estimate).
Kevin Smith looked very good at his pro-day....i think he can be a great pick in fantasy drafts, especially since he's going around 1.8 (estimate).
He is solidly built, that's for sure. He doesn't have blazing speed, but he is solid all around the board proving he will be a versatile back who may stick around as an NFL backup at worst. I have seen him ranked much lower and suppose it's because of his overall size. Durability is also a question as he's torn his ACL.
Another guy I've been higher on than virtually everyone else.Also Ray Rice is another one that had an eye-popping pro-day as he improved his Vert by 8 inches I believe.
Look for them to get drafted in the 2nd Round, possibly by a team in need of a starter in the near future.
I actually don't see Felix Jones slipping past Dallas in the 1st Round.His abilities would lead most to believe that he has a huge upside, but he just doesn't have the build to be an everydown back IMO. That said, he can play like a Reggie Bush-type role when paired with a bigger back. Probably won't be targeted close to 100 times like Bush though. He is almost certainly a top 50 pick due to his potential on special teams.
Another guy I've seen ranked lower than I have him. I loved Brohm in college and think he will be a future NFL starter. I predict Ryan will develop into a Roethlisberger-level talent (with slightly less athleticism) and Brohm into more of a Matt Schaub-level talent (with slightly more athleticism).Some people have Henne and Flacco ranked close and even ahead of Brohm in some cases and I just don't understand that.His biggest question I suppose is his arm strength or his ability to stand strong in the pocket, but neither is a red flag.
Burning Sensation
Footballguy
I'm not far behind you. I am shocked how little hype he is getting. Of course i dont mind, i would love to see him slip into the late first round of my rookie drafts.
Maroney=Speed
Footballguy
Anyone that thinks high of this guy, better think again.Burning Sensation said:
But you have him ahead of Stewart and Charles? Is it that preposterous for someone to have him ranked in their top 5 RBs?ETA: I see now that you may have misunderstood what I was saying.
I meant that I have been higher on Smith than most other people who ranked the rookies. He is RB6 on my list (see above)
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Maroney=Speed
Footballguy
I was being
Look at my sig. So yep I agree with you. Whats your top 6 look like? RB only?
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(see just a few posts up for full rankings)
Pre-draft Positional Ranking Breakdown
[with arbitrary ranking scale!]
Top 10 QBs
1. [65] Matt Ryan, Boston College 6'4 3/4" 228 lbs.
A very confident QB who has the arm to perform in just about any system. What Ryan lacks in mobility, he makes up for with his pocket presence. His awareness and ability to read defenses is precisely what elite NFL QBs must possess. His leadership leaves no doubt he will be a franchise QB with QB1 fantasy potential.
2. [55] Brian Brohm, Louisville 6'2 7/8" 230 lbs.
Great accuracy to go with solid all-around skills. Brohm isn't the most clutch QB, but handled adversity well in '07. His intelligence is unquestioned, but he doesn't seem to have Ryan's natural-born-leader attitude. Consider his upside to be somewhere along the lines of Matt Schaub without much of a downside.
3. [49] Joe Flacco, Delaware 6'6 3/8" 236 lbs.
The strongest arm and the best size of any QB in this class earns Flacco at least the a top 4 fantasy ranking in this class. Desire and motivation has to be questioned since he transferred from Pitt under the assumption that he couldn't beat out Palko for the starting gig, and the fact that he did not dominate D1-AA competition compared to Josh Johnson. Not to mention he has alot of work to do in terms of footwork since he worked primarily out of the shotgun. In my opinion, Flacco is a boom or bust player with QB1 upside and NFL Europe downside.
4. [46] Chad Henne, Michigan 6'2 7/8" 230 lbs.
Defenders swear by his leadership and experience, which gives him the #4 ranking. Unfortunatly, his arm isn't anything special. Against speedy NFL defenses, his on-the-run skills are a red flag. Upside is definitely limited due to his good (but not great) passing skills.
5. [44] Josh Johnson, San Diego 6'2 3/4" 213 lbs.
Impressive numbers, which should be expected out of a D1-AA prospect. Being blessed with a strong-enough and accurate-enough arm is one thing, but one red flag with Johnson is that he's not a natural when it comes to throwing touch passes that many successful WCO QB's require. He'll be elusive like McNabb, but Johnson needs to bulk up, and work on his touch passes to live up to his fantasy upside. The Tarvaris Jackson experiment should hurt his chances to compete for a starting job in his first few seasons.
6. [43] Andre Woodson, Kentucky 6'4" 229 lbs.
The talk about his mechanics might be a bit overrated (It's not really comparable to Leftwich's 10-second wind-up), but combined with inability to make quick decisions, it's a red flag in my book. With his arm and the weapons he had in college, he should have been more productive. He did not read through his progressions fast enough which led to him being sacked an awful lot compared to most D-1 QBs. If he quickens his release and progressions just a little, he can become a serviceable backup fantasy QB. Lots of downside here.
7. [41] John David Booty, USC 6'2 3/8" 218 lbs.
Slightly better ball skills than Henne- think Chad Pennington without the durability issues. In this respect, he is much the opposite prospect than Josh Johnson. Doesn't have near the mental toughness as Henne as is evidenced by his inability to win the big games. Pennington was pretty good in his days as a healthy starter, but he was never a fantasy factor. With a little luck (an injury to a starter), Booty could earn a starting job, but he likely won't be winning games for any NFL or fantasy team.
8. [37] Kevin O'Connell, San Diego State 6'5" 225 lbs.
Reminds me of a more athletic Derek Anderson. He is not impressive under pressure which is a red-flag for a guy who will find himself under exponentially heavier pressure in the NFL compared to his college competition. If he's lucky, he could find himself in a Derek Anderson-like situation in his 3rd or 4th season and emerge as a sleeper. (Note: I am not convinced Anderson has the makeup to remain an NFL starter in the future)
9. [36] Dennis Dixon, Oregon 6'3 1/4" 195 lbs.
Comparable to Josh Johnson in that he needs to bulk up. But the biggest concern has to be his inexperience behind center- namely outside the shotgun formation. His mechanics are oftentimes worse than Woodson's, but he was much quicker mentally. Not to mention he is quicker on his feet than any QB on this list. He almost certainly will be drafted, and should be given time to develop due to his potential, but he has too many obstacles for my liking.
10. [34] Colt Brennan, Hawaii 6'2 3/8" 207 lbs.
His performance against UGA was telling in his ability to perform aginst constant pressure from speedy defenses. He'll need to prove he at least has some on-the-run skills to shed the doubts about his size, ala Brees and Brunell. The only redeeming qualities are is his quick release and accurate touch passes. Has the confidence, but I don't see the maturity he'll need to display to develop his talents.
More likely to be drafted lower than their fantasy potential: Josh Johnson, Dennis Dixon, Kevin O'Connell
More likely to be drafted higher than their fantasy potential: Chad Henne, John David Booty
Top 10 RBs
1. [93] Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois* 5'10 5/8" 225 lbs.
Overall, Mendenhall is raw, but has the look and ability of an every-down NFL RB. He doesn't have the best vision but he runs with authority (read: ability to break tackles). No big negatives to speak of besides relative inexperience, but even that means he has less wear and tear than other backs in this class. And unlike McFadden and Stewart- no true durability risks.
2. [93] Darren McFadden, Arkansas* 6'1 1/4" 211 lbs.
No doubt McFadden is going to be a serious home-run threat-type NFL RB. But given the system he played in college, he'll have to get used to the fact that the holes he sees in the NFL will be much smaller. He would be higher ranked in my book if it weren't for his thinly built lower body.
3. [89] Jonathan Stewart, Oregon* 5'10 1/4" 235 lbs.
The talk about his limited potential as a power back or "fullback" are ludicrous. Shaun Alexander and Jamal Lewis aren't nearly as solidly built as Stewart, nor as fast. Also, unlike the latter two 'backs, Stewart is a capable receiver out of the backfield. His durability is a question as he's dealt with injuries throughout most of his college career. If he can become a more determined runner, while staying healthy, he is unquestionably in Mendenhall and McFadden's class as a potential fantasy RB1.
4. [78] Ray Rice, Rutgers* 5'8" 199 lbs.
This ranking may seem like a stretch given Rice's lack of ideal size, versatility, and relative explosiveness. Then again, his vision, instincts, and- most importantly- his balance, are top notch. If Rice is lucky enough to get the opportunity to run behind a massive, or generally efficient offensive line, he can be the next Frank Gore. Certainly capable of becoming a top 20 fantasy RB.
5. [75] Felix Jones, Arkansas* 5'10 1/8" 207 lbs.
Like McFadden, Jones has been used to seeing massive holes at Arkansas, so he'll have a slight learning curve. His combine numbers weren't overly impressive, but he's been a consistent game-breaker in college and is versatile enough to become a 20+ touch-per-game RB, despite reports to the contrary. Could have Michael Turner-like fantasy value.
6. [72] Kevin Smith, Central Florida* 6'1 1/8" 217
Another possibly suprising rating given his NFL "stock" (dubbed as a 2nd day pick by most experts). With defenses keyed to stop him throughout most of his Senior season, he remained a relatively efficient runner. And what impressed me most is the hard work he seems to have put in this offseason. His combine was impressive, and his Pro Day- even moreso. He looks to have worked himself into excellent shape which should add an element of explosiveness we have not yet seen from him on the field. With a little maturity and coaching, he could be a solid fantasy RB2. At worst he is DeShaun Foster.
7. [69] Matt Forte, Tulane 6'1 3/8" 217 lbs.
Another C-USA back with an impressive post-season including an unexpectedly fast 40 time at the Combine and an eye-opening Senior Bowl performance. Still, he is not the most elusive runner, but has the instincts and power to gain tough yards. He is also not as powerful as his frame would suggest, but he is more versaltile than most would expect. He could be a very good backup for an NFL team looking for a tandem RBBC. If he is put in an ideal situation, he is capable of becoming a change-of-pace/goaline RB with the potential to grind out between 600-1000 yards per year in his prime.
8. [69] Jamaal Charles, Texas* 5'11" 200 lbs.
Should have been more productive in his college career if you consider him a top RB in this class. He has the tools that some scouts fall in love with, but lacks ideal bulk and natural tailback instincts. Combined with his ball security issues (a bit overblown), I can see where the Tatum Bell comparisons come from. His running style, build and questionable motivation leads me to believe he will be nothing more than an inconsistent weapon who will not be relied on as a true feature 'back (and hardly ever used in goaline situations).
9. [65] Chris Johnson, East Carolina 5'11" 197 lbs.
Similarly to Charles, he lacks ideal bulk and will likely be relegated to a part-time role, no matter his explosiveness. Given his speed and elusiveness, he will at least become a game-breaking kick returner and all-purpose offensive weapon with Devin Hester-like potential. But in the fantasy game, he is nothing more than a 600-1,000 all-purpose yardage 'back, with limited TD-potential. Definitely deserves a bump in a PPR league.
10. [61] Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech 5'10 1/2" 215 lbs.
Good, but not great NFL size, power, instincts, and toughness. He will need to bulk up and remain healthy (which has been a problem for him in college) if he wants to become a 'back to be relied upon in a full, or part-time role. His lack of explosiveness and lateral agility will probably limit him to the bench until an injury to the starter(s) occur. If he can remain healthy, he can be a Ryan Grant clone. (Note: I don't think Grant is necessarily going to remain as productive as he was last year.)
11. [55] Steve Slaton, West Virginia* 5'9 1/8" 197 lbs.
Slaton is among the quickest, and most elusive 'backs in this class, but there are major doubts about his motivation, toughness, durability, size, and fumbling issues. I can see him getting over his case of fumble-itis, but cannot see any team willing to give Slaton more than 200 touches per season due to the issues mentioned. If he works on his pass-catching, he should turn into a part-time home-run threat ala Leon Washington.
12. [51] Thomas Brown, Georgia 5'8 3/8" 204 lbs.
Brown is an all-around talent who plays tough, but has had durabilty issues. While not overly-explosive, he depended too much on his athleticism and lateral agility than his power when trying to avoid tacklers. He plays smaller than his size and is not a great pass-catcher which does not bode well for his chances to become a 3rd down 'back. His strength is underrated, and I believe he should be able to contribute in some capacity either on special teams or as a solid backup if he works on his lower-body ala MJD.
13. [48] Justin Forsett, California 5'8" 194 lbs.
Shows more explosiveness than Thomas Brown, but is less powerful. He has been more durable than both Slaton and Brown in his career, but I worry about his ability to hold up as an NFL 'back because he doesn't appear to have the frame to bulk up. He can contribute on special teams, but his fantasy upside is very limited given his size and between-the-tackles running ability.
14. [46] Mike Hart, Michigan 5'8 7/8" 206 lbs.
Most would like to see Hart succeed as he displayed unrivaled determination and great instincts as a runner in college. Unfortunately, his overall lack of explosiveness is the kiss of death. As a short and slow runner, he will be limited to being a short yardage RB. I think Hart can succeed in this role as good as any, which gives him some fantasy potential. Given his reputation, I think NFL teams will give him a shot to stick around, despite his lack of versatility.
15. [44] Jalen Parlmele, Toledo 5' 11 1/2" 224 lbs.
For all the talk about this guy's lack of athleticism, he sure did impress at the combine. I'll give Parmele the benefit of the doubt that, as a big 'back, he can show improved agility on the field once he gets into pads, based on his post-season performance. He doesn't have the instincts of an NFL RB, but he has the size and speed that NFL teams look for.
16. [43] BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss 5'10 5/8" 219 lbs.
Saw alot of MBIII in him in college, but have come to realize that his overall speed and athleticism will most likely limit him to a short-yardage role in the NFL. Like Hart, he lacks the versatility which will make it tough for him to stick around in the NFL.
17. [43] Chauncey Washington, USC 5'11 3/8" 211 lbs.
Great instincts as a runner are overshadowed by his lack of maturity and versatility. He is faster than he timed at the combine, but not overly-explosive. Doesn't display typical characteristics of a 3rd down back. If he works hard (which is asking alot based on his history), Washington could be a good backup, based on his skillset.
18. [40] Corey Boyd, South Carolina 6'0 1/2" 213 lbs.
Boyd is a decent all-around back who can find the hole, but is not elusive in open space. He has good size, but, naturally, that limits his explosiveness. He can break tackles, however, he's had issues with ball security. Durability is not a concern. Versality will likely keep him on an NFL roster, so he will likely be an injury or two away from having at least a temporary starting job.
19. [39] Allen Patrick, Oklahoma 6'0 3/4" 198 lbs.
Similar to Green-Ellis, he is not a very instinctual runner, but he is more athletic and agile than a few guys ahead of him on this list. Similar to Washington, he has not displayed good pass-catching or blocking abilities. His overall skillset is solid, but durability is a huge question given his injury history.
20. [36] Chad Simpson, Morgan State 5'8 5/8" 216 lbs.
Plays with a chip on his shoulder and is very athletic compared to most guys on this list. Obviously Simpson has not played against top competition and does not have alot of experience at tailback. He also does not fit into the 3rd down role due to his pass-blocking and pass-catching deficiencies. He doesn't have great size, but he has proved his explosiveness on the field and at the combine. Maturity is a concern.
t21. [35] Anthony Alridge, Houston 5'9" 170 lbs.
Is a poor man's version of Chris Johnson. Alridge, the fifth C-USA 'back on this list, is extremely fast, elusive and agile. The problem is he is very slightly built and is the least powerful runner on this list. Questions about his toughness will limit his touches, but he should make the most out of what teams ask of him. Unfortunately, that may only be kick return duties and the occasional screen pass or end-around.
t21. [35] Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State 5'8 1/4" 187 lbs.
Is a poor man's version of Anthony Alridge. Well, at least he's much tougher. Okay, he doesn't have blazing speed but he is very quick and elusive. Savage is a somewhat determined runner, but his slight frame will severely limit his opportunities as an offensive weapon.
t21. [35] Xavier Omon, NW Missouri State 5'10 3/4" 228 lbs.
A D-2 version of Mike Hart was an ultra-productive college back who projects as an excellent short yardage NFL 'back. Dertermination and hard work could earn him a roster spot as a fullback. Fantasy owners can only hope for him to be a goaline vulture at best.
24. [33] Ryan Torain, Arizona 6'0 3/8" 222 lbs.
Relatively agile for a big 'back, Torain is a very powerful runner who can break tackles. He is not the most instinctual runner as he doesn't have a very good pad level, so I can't see him having great success in any particular role. He is not very versatile and is not a great blocker for someone his size. Durability concerns abound.
25. [31] Rafael Little, Kentucky 5'8 3/4" 194 lbs.
A tough shifty back who reminds me of Justin Forsett. The big red flag is his durability. He's already had a knee injury this offseason which should leave doubts as to weather he is going to be drafted. Gives good effort and is very versatile when it comes to being able to contribute as a receiver and kick returner.
More likely to be drafted lower than their fantasy potential: Ray Rice, Kevin Smith
More likely to be drafted higher than their fantasy potential: Chris Johnson, Jamaal Charles
Top 50 WRs
[73] Devin Thomas, Michigan State*
[72] James Hardy, Indiana*
[71] Limas Sweed, Texas
[70] Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
[65] Mario Manningham, Michigan*
[62] Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*
[62] Andre Caldwell, Florida
[61] Early Doucet, LSU
[59] DeSean Jackson, California*
[58] Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
[57] Keenan Burton, Kentucky
[56] Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
[56] Donnie Avery, Houston
[55] Lavelle Hawkins, California
[53] Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
[53] Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin
[51] William Franklin, Missouri
[48] Steve Johnson, Kentucky
[47] Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
[47] Arman Shields, Richmond
[47] Marcus Smith, New Mexico
[46] Pierre Garcon, Mount Union
[45] Harry Douglas, Louisville
[45] D.J. Hall, Alabama
[45] Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
[45] Adrian Arrington, Michigan*
[45] Marcus Monk, Arkansas
[45] Darius Reynaud, West Virginia*
[44] Dorien Bryant, Purdue
[43] Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
[42] Mario Urrutia, Louisville*
[41] Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
[39] Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*
[39] Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
[38] Jaymar Johnson, Jackson State
[37] Davone Bess, Hawaii*
[37] Maurice Purify, Nebraska
[36] Kevin Robinson, Utah State
[36] Jason Rivers, Hawaii
[36] Mark Bradford, Stanford
[36] Marcus Henry, Kansas
[36] James Banks, Carson Newman
[35] Travis Brown, New Mexico
[34] Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)
[34] Taj Smith, Syracuse*
[34] Brandon Breazell, UCLA
[34] Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota
[33] Robert Jordan, California
[32] Todd Blythe, Iowa State
[32] Darnell Jenkins, Miami (FL)
Top 10 TEs
[54] Dustin Keller, Purdue
[52] Fred Davis, USC
[45] Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M*
[39] John Carlson, Notre Dame
[36] Brad Cottam, Tennessee
[35] Jermichael Finley, Texas*
[34] Kellen Davis, Michigan State
[31] Martin Rucker, Missouri
[30] Jacob Tamme, Kentucky
[27] Craig Stevens, California
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Sabertooth
Footballguy
Running back class super strong.
gandalas
Footballguy
Best RB class ever, IMO.
Ray Rice
Chris Johnson
Matt Forte
Jamaal Charles
Darren McFadden
Jonathan Stewart
Rashard Mendenhall
Kevin Smith (pre-injury)
Steve Slaton (pre-injury)
Felix Jones
BenJarvis Green-Ellis
Peyton Hillis
That is 12 players who have all had a significant fantasy impact in one way or another. Rice, CJ, Forte, Charles, McFadden, and Mendenhall would be a pretty darn good stable of RBs to have right now.
massraider
Footballguy
These things are always great to revisit. We should actually all do it before the draft, and gain some perspective. I really enjoyed searching the 2010 Bloom 100, and finding my post where I theorized the Pats won't ever throw to their TE's a lot (Gronk, Hernandez). Lordy.
