2008 NFL DRAFT (1 Viewer)

[_4_]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

Here's a look at how the 2008 draft is shaping up based on interviews with scouts:

RECEIVERS

"The senior class is not a great group," one scout said. "It really isn't. And, really, the junior wide receivers aren't that great, either."

Given the weak senior class, it wouldn't surprise if five juniors declare and then become the first five selected. The list includes Oklahoma's Malcolm Kelly (6 feet 3 1/2 inches, 220 pounds), California's Desean Jackson (5 feet 11 1/2 inches, 177 pounds), Maryland's Darrius Heyward-Bey (6-1 1/2, 205), Indiana's James Hardy (6-6, 215) and Michigan's Mario Manningham (6-0, 180).

"He's Teddy Ginn with more athletic ability," one scout said, referring to Jackson. "Big-time speed. Very thin. Terrific punt returner."

Kelly has big speed. Heyward-Bey is a third-year sophomore and needs seasoning. Hardy caught 16 touchdown passes. Manningham, according to one scout, "was inconsistent. Every game I've seen him he's dropping balls and pouting. I'd be surprised if he came out."

Probably the best senior, Texas' Limas Sweed (6-4 1/2, 220), was limited to four games by a wrist injury. In no way can he be compared to Roy Williams, another former Longhorn WR.

At tight end, Notre Dame's John Carlson (6-5, 255) is a fairly complete player, Southern California's Fred Davis (6-3 1/2, 247) and Missouri's Martin Rucker (6-4 1/2, 247) are dynamic receivers and California's Craig Stevens (6-3 1/2, 251) might be the best blocker.

"There's no Greg Olson-type player," one scout said. "They all have holes. They're either receivers or blockers."

As a group, the top five juniors are better than the top seniors. The list includes Oklahoma State's Brandon Pettigrew (6-6, 260), Missouri's Chase Coffman (6-5 1/2, 254), Florida's Cornelius Ingram (6-3 1/2, 230), Wisconsin's Travis Beckum (6-3, 225) and Texas A&M's Martellus Bennett (6-6 1/2, 275).

Coffman is the son of former Packers tight end Paul Coffman.

"He's got size, toughness, hands better than his dad," one scout said. "Faster than his dad. He's as reckless running after the catch as his dad."

Ingram and Beckum are stretch-the-field types that could figure as wide receivers. Bennett played two seasons of basketball and almost declared for the NBA before trying football.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Michigan's Jake Long (6-7, 320) gets most of the publicity, but most scouts view him strictly as a right tackle.

"He's not a great athlete," one scout said. "He likes to get rough like some of the Michigan guys have in the past. I just don't see an offensive lineman in the top 15 picks. I just don't see that top-notch Joe Thomas guy."

Pittsburgh's Jeffrey Otah (6-6, 339), a native of Nigeria who played just one year of high school ball, has left-tackle athleticism, as does Vanderbilt's Chris Williams (6-6, 317). Others seniors with first-round potential are USC's Sam Baker (6-5, 314), a four-year starter, and Texas-El Paso's Oniel Cousins (6-4, 300).

"If Williams turned it up a notch as far as his nastiness, he'd be a top-five pick," one scout said. "Top, top athlete. Smart. Strong. More of a finesse blocker."

Boise State's Ryan Clady (6-6, 315), Oklahoma's Phil Loadholt (6-7, 350) and Mississippi's Michael Oher (6-5 1/2, 320), the top junior tackles, all are projected to declare.

Wake Forest's Steve Justice (6-3 1/2, 283) heads a group of competent centers, but there simply are no guards unless Oklahoma junior Duke Robinson (6-5, 335) declares. Even then, he's just a big mauler.

"People are talking about moving tackles into guard," one scout said. "We don't have any (guards), particularly first-dayish."

QUARTERBACKS

With no juniors in the picture, the only seniors in the first round look like Boston College's Matt Ryan (6-5, 221) and Louisville's Brian Brohm (6-3, 227).

"Everybody is going to take Ryan first," one scout said. "He's not as athletic as Jay Cutler. He probably is smarter in terms of seeing stuff and being competitive. I think Brohm was (a disappointment in '07). He's a silver-spoon guy. I don't think he's tough."

Another scout said Ryan was more talented than Matt Leinart and better than Brady Quinn or Aaron Rodgers. A third scout categorized him as a "system" QB, questioned his improvisational skill and gave him a second-round grade.

Kentucky's Andre' Woodson (6-4 1/2, 220) has a rifle for an arm but is viewed more as a project.

"He's got that long, exaggerated delivery like Kerry Collins," one scout said. "He will disappoint you at times by making bad decisions. Doesn't run very (fast). You'd like to have him at the top of the second, but so many teams need quarterbacks I think he goes in the first."

At this point, no one else has a shot at the first round.

RUNNING BACKS

"Terrible, terrible," one scout said, referring to the seniors. "My best grade now might be a fourth-round grade. You can have (Michigan's) Mike Hart. Little, small and slow. That doesn't play too good in the NFL."

The five leading juniors plus a few more appear set to turn a thin position into a strong one. The top dog is McFadden (6-1 1/2, 218).

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

Stewart (5-10, 230), according to another scout, "is a power runner with good feet and quickness and maneuverability."

Mendenhall (5-10 1/2, 225), a combination of talent and toughness, exploded for 1,526 yards (6.2) as a junior. Smith (6-0, 210) led the nation with 2,448 yards (5.9) and 29 TDs.

"Smith plays like Mendenhall," one scout said. "He's got the quick feet and will bounce it outside."

Jones (5-11 1/2, 205), the best kickoff returner in the draft, rushed for 1,117 yards (9.1) as McFadden's backup.

"He's maybe a step faster than McFadden," another scout said. "Not as big. You give him 15 touches a game. With him, Brett Favre would want to play a couple more years."

Rutgers' Ray Rice (5-8 1/2, 200), compared by one scout to Joe Morris, is a powerful little back and also might declare.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Virginia's Chris Long (6-3 1/2, 274), the son of former Raider Howie Long, is the top senior defensive end and a top-10 pick.

"You can tell Howie's been working with him for a long, long time," one scout said. "Great effort guy. Knows how to rush the passer. Very productive. People can compare him to Aaron Kampman."

Pushing Long at the position will be three juniors, all of whom are due out: Ohio State's Vernon Gholston (6-4, 260), Clemson's Phillip Merling (6-5, 295) and Florida's Derrick Harvey (6-4, 260).

"Gholston is a physically gifted athlete who can play with speed or power," one scout said. "Unlike guys from Clemson, Merling's motor goes all day long. Some guys like Harvey more than Jarvis Moss."

Georgia Tech's Michael Johnson (6-6 1/2, 250), who has been compared to Jevon Kearse, Louisiana State's Tyson Jackson (6-4 1/2, 295) and Miami's Calais Campbell (6-7 1/2, 285) are other juniors with first-round ability.

Perhaps the most athletic senior DE is Wake Forest's Jeremy Thompson (6-5, 262), the brother of Orrin Thompson, a tackle on the Packers' practice squad.

The pick of the litter at defensive tackle is LSU's Glenn Dorsey (6-1 1/2, 313), who played on a bad knee almost all season.

"He's a top-five player," one scout said. "He can beat a guy one-on-one. He'll demand a double-team. He's got great effort, team leader."

Other first-round tackles figure to be USC's Sedrick Ellis (6-1, 307), a nose tackle with fine quickness, and North Carolina's Kentwan Balmer (6-5, 295), who made his senior season by far his best.

LINEBACKERS

James Laurinaitis (6-2 1/2, 245), the successor to A.J. Hawk at Ohio State, probably will declare and be a top-15 pick.

"He's not as natural as Hawk," one scout said. "If you run the ball between the tackles, he's tough. If you stretch it to the sidelines, he's not as effective as Hawk was."

A group of four other inside players, including USC's Rey Maualuga (6-2 1/2, 255), LSU's Derry Beckwith (6-0 1/2, 235), Oklahoma's Curtis Lofton (6-0, 240) and Tennessee's Jerod Mayo (6-1, 230), all would fall in the first two rounds if they declare.

"(Maualuga) came out and said he wasn't coming out," one scout said. "But I don't know what that's worth. Tough, athletic and fast. First round."

It isn't as good outside, where USC's Keith Rivers (6-3, 237) and Penn State's Dan Connor (6-3, 230) are the top seniors. The top juniors, Penn State's Sean Lee (6-2, 235) and USC's Brian Cushing (6-3 1/2, 235), probably will be back in school.

"Rivers is hit or miss," one scout said. "He will play an athletic game but he will get out of position. Connor is a solid player. Dan easily could be a middle backer."

SECONDARY

"I don't think you'll have a top-five corner like you see in a lot of drafts," one scout said. "Last year was a pretty good group of safeties. This year is not going to be that group."

At cornerback, the probable first-round seniors would be South Florida's Mike Jenkins (5-10 1/2, 200) and Troy's Leodis McKelvin (5-10 1/2, 186).

"Jenkins has big-time speed and big-time quickness," one scout said. "All he plays is press man. McKelvin has a lot of production and is one of the best punt returners in the draft."

If they declare, four juniors would have a shot at the first round: Ohio State's Malcolm Jenkins (6-0 1/2, 200), Oklahoma's Reggie Smith (6-0 1/2, 200), Wisconsin's Jack Ikegwuono (5-11 1/2, 200) and Kansas' Aqib Talib (6-1 1/2, 205).

"Ikegwuono will be right there in the mix," one scout said. "He can man up and run with receivers, and he's got height, weight, speed. He'll probably end up being in the second round."

Said another scout: "He should stay. He's not very good."

Added a third: "We've got to do some research on his character. He's fast and has all the skills. The first round would depend on his workout."

Kenny Phillips (6-1, 200), a junior from Miami, declared Friday and could be the best of a weak corps of safeties. Malcolm Jenkins, Reggie Smith and Talib all might project to safety.

"Phillips hasn't had a great year but nobody did there," one scout said. "Kind of an elite-type athlete. After that, it's just a bunch of third-, fourth-, fifth-round guys."

 

[Interseptopus]

I read that in the paper today too... after a couple fruitful draft classes I think this one will be a let down... shame for the Dolphins, Falcons, Jets, 49ers... oh wait...NE has their pick...

 

[coolnerd]

Thanks for the link

 

[Buckna]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

 

[bluesclues]

I like Stewart and Mendenhall in the RB group.

Dorsey will be Pats pick in first round with Niners pick to help their D line.

It is a weak draft, especially at skill spots.

McFadden will be interesting to see where he lands.

Do the Pats dare take him?

 

[jeter23]

I think many are underrating this draft from a fantasy perspective. In various mock drafts, I have seen McFadden, Stewart, Mendenhall, Slaton, and Rice all going in the 1st round. That is not likely come April, but the potential alone makes me look forward to rookie draft next spring. Adding in Jones, Smith, the 3 QBs and the Jr. WRs makes it even better. I think the 2008 rookie draft will be deeper than the past couple of years.

 

[EBF]

I think it's a decent group. There aren't many marquee players at the top of the draft, but there's some decent talent in there. I think we could see as many as 4 or 5 RBs go in the first round when it's all said and done.

And while the WR group doesn't look spectacular on paper, there have to be a few gems in there. The 2005 group wasn't considered very good and it yielded Santonio Holmes, Brandon Marshall, and Greg Jennings. Just because there isn't a Larry Fitzgerald or Calvin Johnson in this crop doesn't mean some of these guys won't eventually pan out.

 

[coolnerd]

My early read is that it is going to be a better FF draft than real NFL draft. In fantasy terms, there is going to be fool's gold within the RB position, so you will need to understand talent and opportunity well in regards to that position. If the players projected come out there could be 8 to 10 Rb drafted in the top 3 rounds, who have good pedigree. Last year, owners either had the reach for marginal RB talent or draft a QB/WR, which are generally riskier and longer term in outlook. With the RBs number being pretty good, the WRs and Qbs despite the questions should be available at spots in most FF drafts where the risk/reward/value is good.

 

[The Jacket]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

And that's why the article is awful. This class is loaded with defensive talent and has the best OT depth in years. There's not a great top end for fantasy purposes or any flash names at QB, but it's a heck of a class overall. And if you are strictly interested in fantasy, keep an eye on a number of RBs - that's one heck of a deep position, too. Teams will be getting backs in the second round that can be legitimate NFL starters.

 

[FavreCo]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

And that's why the article is awful. This class is loaded with defensive talent and has the best OT depth in years. There's not a great top end for fantasy purposes or any flash names at QB, but it's a heck of a class overall. And if you are strictly interested in fantasy, keep an eye on a number of RBs - that's one heck of a deep position, too. Teams will be getting backs in the second round that can be legitimate NFL starters.

If they all come out:McFadden

Mendenhall

Stewart

K. Smith

Jones

Rice

Slaton

Davis (Clemson)

J. Charles

And there is plenty of room for these guys with the way RB's are getting injured.

 

[jestertj]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

 

[Mr. Peterson]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

 

[_4_]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

And that's why the article is awful. This class is loaded with defensive talent and has the best OT depth in years. There's not a great top end for fantasy purposes or any flash names at QB, but it's a heck of a class overall. And if you are strictly interested in fantasy, keep an eye on a number of RBs - that's one heck of a deep position, too. Teams will be getting backs in the second round that can be legitimate NFL starters.

Note to self: The Jacket knows more than NFL scouts and for some reason has just been passed over by every NFL team's scouting department.

 

[happy_donut]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

And that's why the article is awful. This class is loaded with defensive talent and has the best OT depth in years. There's not a great top end for fantasy purposes or any flash names at QB, but it's a heck of a class overall. And if you are strictly interested in fantasy, keep an eye on a number of RBs - that's one heck of a deep position, too. Teams will be getting backs in the second round that can be legitimate NFL starters.

If they all come out:McFadden

Mendenhall

Stewart

K. Smith

Jones

Rice

Slaton

Davis (Clemson)

J. Charles

And there is plenty of room for these guys with the way RB's are getting injured.

Hi FarveCo,I'm wondering if your list is in the order that you like them. You didn't say, so I'm asking. Here's mine, separated into tiers:

McFadden

Stewart

Jones

Mendenhall

Slaton

J. Charles

Rice

K. Smith

Davis (Clemson)

I'd love to hear any comments or discussion on these guys. I'm basing the above more on what I've read than watching college games.

Also, while I think McFadden is the best in this class, I would put him in the same tier but below Adrian Peterson. McFadden seems to be a more complete (ie, pass catching, possibly blocking) back, Peterson is a BEAST. To me it's the difference between LJ (BEAST) and SJax (whom I think of as a more complete back).

 

[Colin Dowling]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

I agree. McFadden is a great player, but he's not Peterson.

 

[_4_]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

I agree. McFadden is a great player, but he's not Peterson.

Colin - you do a mock right? Do you have any issue with what the "pros" are saying/evaluating the class?

 

[Colin Dowling]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

I agree. McFadden is a great player, but he's not Peterson.

Colin - you do a mock right? Do you have any issue with what the "pros" are saying/evaluating the class?

I'm not as sold on Stewart as some at RB, but we'll see.I've been saying Brohm would be QB3 for a while (even though I had him highest in my last mock).I think that Smith is overrated at RB.I think this is a great draft if you need OT or DL help. CB and WR are terrible this year. Chris Houston would be a top-15 pick this season.I could easily see Slaton, Rice, and Hart sliding to round 3.

 

[Athletic Supporter]

So the basic jist of this article is that other than McFadden, the 2008 draft class blows chunks.

And that's why the article is awful. This class is loaded with defensive talent and has the best OT depth in years. There's not a great top end for fantasy purposes or any flash names at QB, but it's a heck of a class overall. And if you are strictly interested in fantasy, keep an eye on a number of RBs - that's one heck of a deep position, too. Teams will be getting backs in the second round that can be legitimate NFL starters.

If they all come out:McFadden

Mendenhall

Stewart

K. Smith

Jones

Rice

Slaton

Davis (Clemson)

J. Charles

And there is plenty of room for these guys with the way RB's are getting injured.

Hi FarveCo,I'm wondering if your list is in the order that you like them. You didn't say, so I'm asking. Here's mine, separated into tiers:

McFadden

Stewart

Jones

Mendenhall

Slaton

J. Charles

Rice

K. Smith

Davis (Clemson)

I'd love to hear any comments or discussion on these guys. I'm basing the above more on what I've read than watching college games.

Also, while I think McFadden is the best in this class, I would put him in the same tier but below Adrian Peterson. McFadden seems to be a more complete (ie, pass catching, possibly blocking) back, Peterson is a BEAST. To me it's the difference between LJ (BEAST) and SJax (whom I think of as a more complete back).

Lots of discussion on these guys and more here.

 

[Colin Dowling]

McFadden

Charles

Mendenhall

Stewart

Jones

K. Smith

Slaton

Rice

 

[3nOut]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I was just going to ask this same question but I think it deservers its own topic.

 

[happy_donut]

Lots of discussion on these guys and more here.

Thanks. I've read that one through but was looking for more.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Sources are saying that Calais Campbell WILL enter the draft.

 

[FavreCo]

Hi FarveCo,I'm wondering if your list is in the order that you like them. You didn't say, so I'm asking. Here's mine, separated into tiers:McFaddenStewartJonesMendenhallSlatonJ. CharlesRiceK. SmithDavis (Clemson)I'd love to hear any comments or discussion on these guys. I'm basing the above more on what I've read than watching college games.Also, while I think McFadden is the best in this class, I would put him in the same tier but below Adrian Peterson. McFadden seems to be a more complete (ie, pass catching, possibly blocking) back, Peterson is a BEAST. To me it's the difference between LJ (BEAST) and SJax (whom I think of as a more complete back).

Obviously it depends where they go but I like the shorter RB's as they last longer and I am in a dynasty league. I don't like Slaton above Rice. Speed isn't everything. Vision is. Speed is Michael Bennett. Vision is Marion Barber.Also not sure on F. Jones that high.Here's a guessMcFadden - has to be 1st even though I don't like his height. He can throw and that's a plus.Stewart or Mendenhall - once again where they go.Rice because he reminds me of Frank Gore.Jones maybeSmithCharles - now this guy is fast.SlatonDavis

 

[Irish]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

McFadden is part deaux of Jerious Norwood.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

McFadden is part deaux of Jerious Norwood.

McFadden has a much sturdier build than Norwood.But he's definitely no Adrian Peterson.

 

[EBF]

I think the RB tiers break down like this:

Darren McFadden

Jonathan Stewart

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

Ray Rice

Kevin Smith

Steve Slaton

Jamaal Charles

James Davis

I don't think McFadden is in a tier of his own. He'll be the first RB off the board, but I think he's a bit overrated. It will be interesting to see where Stewart, Mendenhall, and Jones go. I don't see a lot to separate those guys, so I think where they're drafted will depend on combine numbers and team preference. My guess right now is that Stewart will be the RB2 since he's such a no-brainer lock to be an every-down guy. He's bigger and stronger than Jones, and he runs with more power than Mendenhall. I think Houston will have to take a long look at him. He'd be a great selection for them.

I think Kevin Smith could be on the outside looking in when you talk about the first round RBs. He's having a monster year, but is he really going to stack up with Mendenhall and Stewart at the combine? I'm doubtful, but if he does put forth a great workout then he could sneak into late round 1. Ray Rice seems solidly entrenched as a 2nd or 3rd round guy. Size issues and a less than ideal 40 time will keep him out of the 1st. Slaton is a 2nd-3rd round guy at this point. He has good speed, but too many question marks to go top 30 IMO.

I view Charles as roughly equivalent to Jerious Norwood. Good speed and moves, but a skinny frame without the bulk needed to carry the load. I see him returning to school. With a big year he could go in the 2nd round in 2009. Davis is a good all-around back who isn't elite in any one category. We'll probably see someone like Chris Johnson or Mike Hart join the first day and be selected in round 3 or early round 4.

I'm starting to do my homework on the WR class. Right now my favorite receiver in the group is Malcolm Kelly from Oklahoma. He's big, fast, and athletic. He makes some great plays, but might not be as instinctive as someone like Calvin Johnson or Sidney Rice. Still, he's first round material.

After him you've got guys like Early Doucet, Adarius Bowman, and Desean Jackson. Bowman is big and athletic with mediocre speed. Jackson is a burner with a bad frame. My friend from Cal tells me that Lavelle Hawkins is the better WR prospect, which doesn't seem that far-fetched. Jackson's return skills will get him drafted higher than his pure WR skills warrant.

There are some intriguing 2nd-3rd round prospects like James Hardy from Indiana, Eddie Royal from Virginia Tech, and Keenan Burton from Kentucky. Lots of other names will emerge over the next few months.

 

[Moldy Potato]

All this RB talk, and no mention of Matt Forte? Yeah, I know he plays in CUSA, but he is leading the NCAA in rushing.

I've got to think he will be one of the top ten RBs taken. Am I dreaming?

 

[EBF]

All this RB talk, and no mention of Matt Forte? Yeah, I know he plays in CUSA, but he is leading the NCAA in rushing. I've got to think he will be one of the top ten RBs taken. Am I dreaming?

3rd-4th round IMO. Decent size and wiggle. Not a bad prospect, but not quite on the elite level.

 

[footballfreek]

Local TV station reported that Kevin Smith will have a P.C. tomorrow to announce his intentions to stay for his senior season. With so many RBs that could grade out better this is probably the right decision.

My top 5 RB

1. RB Darren McFadden: Arkansas: What a stud! Can't wait till I can pulg him into my lineup.

2. RB Jonathan Stewart: Oregon: Posted solid numbers this year. GMs will salivate when they see 230lbs run a 4.46

3. RB Rashard Mendenhall: Illinois: Has all the tools to be a stud.

4. RB Felix Jones: Arkansas: could be another Caddy/Ronnie Brown situation. May be a better Pro RB than his teammate McFadden.

5. RB Steve Slaton W.V.: Has plenty of talent. Needs a few more pounds. I think the offense they run in W.V. does not allow for him to showcase his abilities.

 

[Balco]

Surprised at all the love for Steve Slaton. Projects as a backup at best, IMO.

And Ray Rice is not getting the respect he deserves. I think his game translates very well to the pros.

 

[EBF]

Surprised at all the love for Steve Slaton. Projects as a backup at best, IMO.And Ray Rice is not getting the respect he deserves. I think his game translates very well to the pros.

I don't think anyone here is saying that Ray Rice is a bad football player. But I'll be very surprised if an NFL team takes him ahead of any of the big 4. That doesn't mean he won't have a good career though.

 

[jeter23]

That is kind of disappointing regarding Smith, but I think it is the right decision for him considering all of the RBs that will be there. It is kind of surprising he would make that decision before McFadden, Jones, Slaton et al made their official decision.

I have also seen the argument that his stock will never be higher than it is now. Makes me think the announcement may be that he is leaving not staying.

 

[EBF]

That is kind of disappointing regarding Smith, but I think it is the right decision for him considering all of the RBs that will be there. It is kind of surprising he would make that decision before McFadden, Jones, Slaton et al made their official decision.I have also seen the argument that his stock will never be higher than it is now. Makes me think the announcement may be that he is leaving not staying.

You never know until you know. Things like this are always screwy. For all we know "God is going to talk to him" when he's in bed tonight and he's going to wake up firmly committed to the idea of declaring for the draft. I know the field won't be much weaker next year with the likes of Chris Wells and Knowshon Moreno eligible. If I were Smith I'd take the money and run, but it's obviously not my decision to make.

 

[cstu]

Local TV station reported that Kevin Smith will have a P.C. tomorrow to announce his intentions to stay for his senior season. With so many RBs that could grade out better this is probably the right decision.

My top 5 RB

1. RB Darren McFadden: Arkansas: What a stud! Can't wait till I can pulg him into my lineup.

2. RB Jonathan Stewart: Oregon: Posted solid numbers this year. GMs will salivate when they see 230lbs run a 4.46

3. RB Rashard Mendenhall: Illinois: Has all the tools to be a stud.

4. RB Felix Jones: Arkansas: could be another Caddy/Ronnie Brown situation. May be a better Pro RB than his teammate McFadden.

5. RB Steve Slaton W.V.: Has plenty of talent. Needs a few more pounds. I think the offense they run in W.V. does not allow for him to showcase his abilities.

Sounds like Steven Jackson.

 

[EBF]

Local TV station reported that Kevin Smith will have a P.C. tomorrow to announce his intentions to stay for his senior season. With so many RBs that could grade out better this is probably the right decision.

My top 5 RB

1. RB Darren McFadden: Arkansas: What a stud! Can't wait till I can pulg him into my lineup.

2. RB Jonathan Stewart: Oregon: Posted solid numbers this year. GMs will salivate when they see 230lbs run a 4.46

3. RB Rashard Mendenhall: Illinois: Has all the tools to be a stud.

4. RB Felix Jones: Arkansas: could be another Caddy/Ronnie Brown situation. May be a better Pro RB than his teammate McFadden.

5. RB Steve Slaton W.V.: Has plenty of talent. Needs a few more pounds. I think the offense they run in W.V. does not allow for him to showcase his abilities.

Sounds like Steven Jackson.

Different playing style. I see Stewart more in line with Rudi Johnson than Steven Jackson. He's not a speed guy. He's a power back. He benches over 400 pounds and has the second highest power clean in Oregon football history behind starting NFL defensive tackle Haloti Ngata. The guy is a horse. He's not exceptionally explosive and he probably won't be an elite YPC guy, but he's a decent athlete who can handle a lot of carries. I view him as a high level RB2 type for FF purposes. He could conceivably become a RB1 if he lands in a good situation.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

McFadden is part deaux of Jerious Norwood.

McFadden has a much sturdier build than Norwood.But he's definitely no Adrian Peterson.

I think McFadden is pretty overrated actually. Doesn't mean he won't be good. But comparing him to Peterson or Tomlinson....

 

[footballfreek]

Kevin Smith staying in school.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/

 

[sho nuff]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

McFadden is part deaux of Jerious Norwood.

I don't think alot of you have actually watched McFadden play.Any and all comparisons to AP are well warranted...this comparison to Norwood is ridiculous.

 

[silvergold]

interesting when the draft is filled with mediocre talent. I mean teams need to draft and even though their scouts are saying the guy is a 3rd or 4th round talent that they are taking in the first round they have to pay him the big bucks......just interesting how that works out.

 

[EBF]

Bob McGinn of the Journal Sentinal online spoke with NFL scouts about the players that should be available in the 2008 draft...here is what he had to report:

"McFadden is better than (Adrian) Peterson, and Peterson is rookie of the year," one scout said. "He's a little bit bigger than Peterson and he can just flat-out run. Unlike Peterson, he hasn't had injuries. He has it all. Darren is just a natural football player."

I don't get to watch much college ball, and haven't seen McFadden play. Can anyone convince me that this is true? That's a pretty bold statement considering what I've watched AD do this season.

I love McFadden. I think he is an incredible talent and will be good in the NFL, but he is no Adrian Peterson my friend. ADP is heads and shoulders above McFadden. It's not even that close.

Thank you for your unbiased opinion.

McFadden is part deaux of Jerious Norwood.

I don't think alot of you have actually watched McFadden play.Any and all comparisons to AP are well warranted...this comparison to Norwood is ridiculous.

McFadden isn't as powerful as Peterson and isn't nearly as shifty. He's good at breaking into the secondary and running a long distance in a straight line, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's going to be an elite runner at the NFL level. I think people compare him to Norwood because he also has skinny legs and a bad frame for running with power. The reality is that McFadden is probably somewhere between Peterson and Norwood in talent level. I don't think it's out of the question for him to become an impact player in the NFL, but I'm not entirely convinced that he's a top shelf can't-miss RB prospect.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

McFadden reminds me a little bit of Robert Smith of the Vikings/Ohio State.

 

[treat88]

McFadden reminds me a little bit of Robert Smith of the Vikings/Ohio State.

Real good analogy.Hope it doesn't speak to his injury frequency.

 

[sho nuff]

McFadden isn't as powerful as Peterson and isn't nearly as shifty. He's good at breaking into the secondary and running a long distance in a straight line, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's going to be an elite runner at the NFL level. I think people compare him to Norwood because he also has skinny legs and a bad frame for running with power. The reality is that McFadden is probably somewhere between Peterson and Norwood in talent level. I don't think it's out of the question for him to become an impact player in the NFL, but I'm not entirely convinced that he's a top shelf can't-miss RB prospect.

IMO he is shiftier than AP was at Oklahoma.Has a ton of speed...and is so good catching the ball out of the backfield. I think the LT comparisons come in because he can throw the ball (and pretty well too).Talent level is right there with AP...might even be more talented all around.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

McFadden isn't as powerful as Peterson and isn't nearly as shifty. He's good at breaking into the secondary and running a long distance in a straight line, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's going to be an elite runner at the NFL level. I think people compare him to Norwood because he also has skinny legs and a bad frame for running with power. The reality is that McFadden is probably somewhere between Peterson and Norwood in talent level. I don't think it's out of the question for him to become an impact player in the NFL, but I'm not entirely convinced that he's a top shelf can't-miss RB prospect.

IMO he is shiftier than AP was at Oklahoma.Has a ton of speed...and is so good catching the ball out of the backfield. I think the LT comparisons come in because he can throw the ball (and pretty well too).Talent level is right there with AP...might even be more talented all around.

We must be watching a different player because he is NOT shiftier than Peterson. He's really very "straight lineish". Very fast and fantastic acceleration, but he doesn't have a ton of moves. And as EBF notes above, the most interesting thing about him is that for his size and bulk, he doesn't really run with much power at all. He doesn't move defenders. It's very interesting to watch. Might be fun to see if we can do a play by play analysis in the Bowl Game thread as the game unfolds.

 

[footballfreek]

McFadden reminds me a little bit of Robert Smith of the Vikings/Ohio State.

McFadden compares to Marcus Allen in some ways to me. As far as him being "shifty" that is not his running style but it doesn't mean he's not able to put a move on a player. To compare him to AP is wrong in the sense that they have a different running style with both being very effective. There have been very few RBs with the "Shift" ability of an AP to come into the NFL.I really would love to have in-coming rookies, individual player threads, in the off-season to discuss their abilities in full. I have a ton of video to watch after the season is over.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

McFadden reminds me a little bit of Robert Smith of the Vikings/Ohio State.

McFadden compares to Marcus Allen in some ways to me.

I can see that comparison.

 

[Mr. Peterson]

McFadden isn't as powerful as Peterson and isn't nearly as shifty. He's good at breaking into the secondary and running a long distance in a straight line, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's going to be an elite runner at the NFL level. I think people compare him to Norwood because he also has skinny legs and a bad frame for running with power. The reality is that McFadden is probably somewhere between Peterson and Norwood in talent level. I don't think it's out of the question for him to become an impact player in the NFL, but I'm not entirely convinced that he's a top shelf can't-miss RB prospect.

IMO he is shiftier than AP was at Oklahoma.Has a ton of speed...and is so good catching the ball out of the backfield. I think the LT comparisons come in because he can throw the ball (and pretty well too).Talent level is right there with AP...might even be more talented all around.

^ This dude is crazy.

 

[kremenull]

I think the RB tiers break down like this:

Darren McFadden

Jonathan Stewart

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

Ray Rice

Kevin Smith

Steve Slaton

Jamaal Charles

James Davis

I don't think McFadden is in a tier of his own. He'll be the first RB off the board, but I think he's a bit overrated. It will be interesting to see where Stewart, Mendenhall, and Jones go. I don't see a lot to separate those guys, so I think where they're drafted will depend on combine numbers and team preference. My guess right now is that Stewart will be the RB2 since he's such a no-brainer lock to be an every-down guy. He's bigger and stronger than Jones, and he runs with more power than Mendenhall. I think Houston will have to take a long look at him. He'd be a great selection for them.

This is a very interesting comment. In the SEC these days, yet even though I think the conference is a bit overhyped, one thing that can't be disputed is the type of athletes (and future pros) that this conference has on defense, all throughout the conference. And for a guy (McFadden) to run roughshod over this conference for 2 years straight is pretty much a no-brainer that this guy is legit. In watching this guy play, I think people fail to realize how special this guy truly is, as he has very underrated power/strength and the vision is also top-notch. Those two attributes alone give you an opportunity to be very nice in the NFL, but the next critical aspect that separates the SPECIAL RBs from the very good RBs is burst........and McFadden will be in the select few with truly great burst to go along with all of the other needed attributes.......No doubt this guy is a stud in the NFL........anyone not buying it will be left out just like those who applied the "wait and see" approach and slept on AD this past season.....Don't sleep in 2008!

 

[EBF]

I think the RB tiers break down like this:

Darren McFadden

Jonathan Stewart

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

Ray Rice

Kevin Smith

Steve Slaton

Jamaal Charles

James Davis

I don't think McFadden is in a tier of his own. He'll be the first RB off the board, but I think he's a bit overrated. It will be interesting to see where Stewart, Mendenhall, and Jones go. I don't see a lot to separate those guys, so I think where they're drafted will depend on combine numbers and team preference. My guess right now is that Stewart will be the RB2 since he's such a no-brainer lock to be an every-down guy. He's bigger and stronger than Jones, and he runs with more power than Mendenhall. I think Houston will have to take a long look at him. He'd be a great selection for them.

This is a very interesting comment. In the SEC these days, yet even though I think the conference is a bit overhyped, one thing that can't be disputed is the type of athletes (and future pros) that this conference has on defense, all throughout the conference. And for a guy (McFadden) to run roughshod over this conference for 2 years straight is pretty much a no-brainer that this guy is legit. In watching this guy play, I think people fail to realize how special this guy truly is, as he has very underrated power/strength and the vision is also top-notch. Those two attributes alone give you an opportunity to be very nice in the NFL, but the next critical aspect that separates the SPECIAL RBs from the very good RBs is burst........and McFadden will be in the select few with truly great burst to go along with all of the other needed attributes.......No doubt this guy is a stud in the NFL........anyone not buying it will be left out just like those who applied the "wait and see" approach and slept on AD this past season.....Don't sleep in 2008!

No one's saying he isn't a good player, but it's not as though his achievements are out of this world.In 2006 he had 1,647 rushing yards at an average of 5.8 YPC. This year he has 1,725 rushing yards at an average of 5.7 YPC. Good numbers, but nothing out of the ordinary for an elite RB prospect.

Compare those stats to the other elite backs in the draft:

Rashard Mendenhall - 1,526 rushing yards (6.2 YPC)

Jonathan Stewart - 1,469 rushing yards (5.7 YPC)

Felix Jones - 1,117 rushing yards (9.1 YPC)

Stats don't tell the whole story, but McFadden's numbers aren't significantly better than this group's. Felix Jones is averaging over 3 YPC more than McFadden running behind the exact same line.

I like McFadden. He has great speed and is a very smooth runner. I think he has a chance to ber very good at the next level, but is he slam dunk to be one of the best RBs in the NFL? I wouldn't say so.