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2008 Rookie Draft Picks (2 Viewers)
- Thread starter Iron_Far
- Start date
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Moreno getting most the carries today. I had to grin at the guys in Cappy's FFA league when they took two UGA backs and didn't draft Moreno. He's going to be a good one. We haven't mentioned Marlon Lucky much in these threads. He was unstoppable here in HS. 233 yards today, and he's a talented receiver too, and btw Nebraska is the best football team I have seen so far today.
Might as well update these rankings after each week...
My Top 12 for '08 FF Rookie draft (previous rank)
(*) = Juniors
1. RB Darren McFadden* (1)
Some say he may be too big to be a feature NFL 'back, but look at Steven Jackson and Larry Johnson. Sure they might break down sooner than other RBs, but with guys like Jacobs still being pegged as starters around the league, he'll be counted on more in '08 than Adrian Peterson will be this year.
2. RB Steve Slaton* (2)
Started his Heisman campaign strong (as expected) with 4 TD's. Coach Rodriguez will look to get Slaton some rest in these blowouts methinks to keep him healthy for a potential BCS Championship run. My feeling s his stock won't change one bit from now until next May barring an injury or an extreme case of fumbilitis. (no jinx intended... I did bet on an undefeated season for WVU)
3. RB Ray Rice* (3)
Tough to gauge Rice's stock against D1-A softies, Buffalo and Navy. He predictably steamrolled both defenses for over 200 total yards (each), and now has 6 TD's. He seems to be a half step quicker and more explosive than Mike Hart, though it could just be the level of competition. The third spot on this list is likely to change multiple times on the season, but for now there is no reason to drop Rice.
4. RB Felix Jones* (4)
It's just scary to think how productive this guy would be without McFadden hogging the ball (no pun intended). 2nd only to Rafael Little in yards per carry in Week 1 (for players with double digit carries), Jones has proven that his explosive '06 season (7+YPC) was no fluke. This could be another Cadillac Williams/Ronnie Brown scenario with two guys from the same backfield potentially being drafted in the top of Round 1.
5. RB James Davis* (5)
Outshined his running-mate C.J. Spiller against FSU in Week 1 and should continue to get the majority of the carries in this beastly backfield. His tough inside runs were the most impressive, but this guy has enough speed to be an every-down NFL back. His game against Louisiana-Monroe didn't prove much.
6. QB Brian Brohm (6)
Seeing him pick apart two pitiful defenses so far may not prove much, but his decision-making has been top notch, which will give NFL scouts reason to rank him as perhaps the #1 pro prospect in college right now. Louisville is going to be tested in tough out-of-conference games against Kentucky and NC State in the next few weeks. With Louiville's D playing the way it has been, we will see Brohm playing all or most of every game this year. Hopefully he'll face a test from opposing D's somewhere along the line and not just his own.
7. RB Jonathan Stewart* (8)
Stewart continues to frustrate collegiate fantasy owners (yes, they exist.. but no I do not own him in any leagues). Though he continues to be relatively productive in limited duty, he hasn't been given a full workload in the vast majority of his games at Oregon. It makes me question weather it's just the coaching philosophy/system or if Stewart is not dedicated/hungry enough to prove himself in practice. Most likely, the staff is trying to keep him healthy as he's had durability issues in the past which certainly doesn't bode well for a big bruiser like Stewart. He at least was productive against Michigan.... whatever that's worth.
8. RB Mike Hart (7)
Actually was very impressive against Appalachian State. When the pressure was on, this guy delivered with two highlight reel game-saving TD's. Did it all with an injured leg. What this guy lacks in size and speed he more than makes up for with toughness and intelligence. Will be counted on even more while Henne is out.
9. RB Jamaal Charles* (10)
Texas looked horrible in every facet in Week 1, but the 'Horns, and in particular Charles bounced back against a tough test VS. TCU. Charles has little competition since Selvin "Denver Bronco RB du jour" Young is gone, and should prove to be one of the most electrifying RBs in college with his speed.
10. WR Adarius Bowman (9)
Word is that this guy stepped into a machine to measure his body fat% and the thing broke. Not joking. (Later estimated at 3%). This guy reminds me more and more of Terrell Owens every time I see him. A little bit cocky but it wouldn't seem he'd be anywhere near the headache T.O. has become.
11. QB Andre Woodson (11)
Started off strong in his first two games, but continues to be one of the most often-sacked QB's in D1. If I had to guess, his ranking will be up or down all season against tough SEC D's, but he will certainly have the opportunity to become QB1 on my list. Next up: Louisville, which should prove to be a shootout.
12. RB Tashard Choice (unranked)
Extremely productive last year and so far this year. He is built for the NFL and should be a top 2 Senior RB prospect.
Dropped Out: WR Mario Manningham
Just Missed: QBs Matt Ryan, John David Booty, RB Marlon Lucky*, WRs DeSean Jackson*, Earl Bennett*, Early Doucet, Limas Sweed, Malcolm Kelly*, Harry Douglas
My Top 12 for '08 FF Rookie draft (previous rank)
(*) = Juniors
1. RB Darren McFadden* (1)
Some say he may be too big to be a feature NFL 'back, but look at Steven Jackson and Larry Johnson. Sure they might break down sooner than other RBs, but with guys like Jacobs still being pegged as starters around the league, he'll be counted on more in '08 than Adrian Peterson will be this year.
2. RB Steve Slaton* (2)
Started his Heisman campaign strong (as expected) with 4 TD's. Coach Rodriguez will look to get Slaton some rest in these blowouts methinks to keep him healthy for a potential BCS Championship run. My feeling s his stock won't change one bit from now until next May barring an injury or an extreme case of fumbilitis. (no jinx intended... I did bet on an undefeated season for WVU)
3. RB Ray Rice* (3)
Tough to gauge Rice's stock against D1-A softies, Buffalo and Navy. He predictably steamrolled both defenses for over 200 total yards (each), and now has 6 TD's. He seems to be a half step quicker and more explosive than Mike Hart, though it could just be the level of competition. The third spot on this list is likely to change multiple times on the season, but for now there is no reason to drop Rice.
4. RB Felix Jones* (4)
It's just scary to think how productive this guy would be without McFadden hogging the ball (no pun intended). 2nd only to Rafael Little in yards per carry in Week 1 (for players with double digit carries), Jones has proven that his explosive '06 season (7+YPC) was no fluke. This could be another Cadillac Williams/Ronnie Brown scenario with two guys from the same backfield potentially being drafted in the top of Round 1.
5. RB James Davis* (5)
Outshined his running-mate C.J. Spiller against FSU in Week 1 and should continue to get the majority of the carries in this beastly backfield. His tough inside runs were the most impressive, but this guy has enough speed to be an every-down NFL back. His game against Louisiana-Monroe didn't prove much.
6. QB Brian Brohm (6)
Seeing him pick apart two pitiful defenses so far may not prove much, but his decision-making has been top notch, which will give NFL scouts reason to rank him as perhaps the #1 pro prospect in college right now. Louisville is going to be tested in tough out-of-conference games against Kentucky and NC State in the next few weeks. With Louiville's D playing the way it has been, we will see Brohm playing all or most of every game this year. Hopefully he'll face a test from opposing D's somewhere along the line and not just his own.
7. RB Jonathan Stewart* (8)
Stewart continues to frustrate collegiate fantasy owners (yes, they exist.. but no I do not own him in any leagues). Though he continues to be relatively productive in limited duty, he hasn't been given a full workload in the vast majority of his games at Oregon. It makes me question weather it's just the coaching philosophy/system or if Stewart is not dedicated/hungry enough to prove himself in practice. Most likely, the staff is trying to keep him healthy as he's had durability issues in the past which certainly doesn't bode well for a big bruiser like Stewart. He at least was productive against Michigan.... whatever that's worth.
8. RB Mike Hart (7)
Actually was very impressive against Appalachian State. When the pressure was on, this guy delivered with two highlight reel game-saving TD's. Did it all with an injured leg. What this guy lacks in size and speed he more than makes up for with toughness and intelligence. Will be counted on even more while Henne is out.
9. RB Jamaal Charles* (10)
Texas looked horrible in every facet in Week 1, but the 'Horns, and in particular Charles bounced back against a tough test VS. TCU. Charles has little competition since Selvin "Denver Bronco RB du jour" Young is gone, and should prove to be one of the most electrifying RBs in college with his speed.
10. WR Adarius Bowman (9)
Word is that this guy stepped into a machine to measure his body fat% and the thing broke. Not joking. (Later estimated at 3%). This guy reminds me more and more of Terrell Owens every time I see him. A little bit cocky but it wouldn't seem he'd be anywhere near the headache T.O. has become.
11. QB Andre Woodson (11)
Started off strong in his first two games, but continues to be one of the most often-sacked QB's in D1. If I had to guess, his ranking will be up or down all season against tough SEC D's, but he will certainly have the opportunity to become QB1 on my list. Next up: Louisville, which should prove to be a shootout.
12. RB Tashard Choice (unranked)
Extremely productive last year and so far this year. He is built for the NFL and should be a top 2 Senior RB prospect.
Dropped Out: WR Mario Manningham
Just Missed: QBs Matt Ryan, John David Booty, RB Marlon Lucky*, WRs DeSean Jackson*, Earl Bennett*, Early Doucet, Limas Sweed, Malcolm Kelly*, Harry Douglas
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ConstruxBoy
Kate's Daddy
I'll be doing a Break Down the Tape segment over at NFLDraftGuys again looking at a draft eligible RB each week. I'm a little behind, but James Davis was a week ago and Steve Slaton was this past weekend. Watching Jonathan Stewart versus Fresno State for this week's game.
Navy is not a D1-A softie. They are a bowl team. Sure, not a powerhouse, but not a cake walk either. Rice is solid and doesn't put the ball on the ground.Speaking of putting the ball on the ground, you do realize Slaton already had a huge case of fumbilitis last year that cost WV a game and would have cost them the RU game if not for a missed call? He is an excellent back who is unbelievably explosive, but he has been known to fumble in crucial situations (twice vs Louisville, once vs RU).
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ConstruxBoy
Kate's Daddy
I'm very tempted to move Rice ahead of Slaton on my list.rufan said:
FavreCo
Footballguy
Rice reminds me of Frank Gore.
EBF
Footballguy
Me too. They have a very similar running style and build.
Gotta be the funniest looking picture of Favre I've ever seen.As for Slaton's "fumble-itis"... I only mentioned it because he had a bit of a problem last year.
But it's something a RB can work on and I'm sure he has... after all, you are right in that it cost WV the Big East Championship last year.
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
Anybody else watching this kid? Great composure. Natural leadership skills. He had Troy competing with Florida, now he's 17 pts up on Oklahoma State. Not bad for Troy. I think he's made a couple throws you don't often see at the college level, and I think he's got all the throws. He may not be 6-2 as listed and height could be an issue come April, but since I'm the only one I know who gave this kid a chance let alone a top ten rating (here or elsewhere), I had to bump this. This could be a peak at the next Tarvaris Jackson type story. They are very very similar players.I called Russell over Quinn very early, so I'll push my luck here.
1. Woodson - Just too much game to overlook.
2. Brohm - Better than Quinn, equal to Leinart and Cutler.
3. Ben Olson - Shot at being #1 with one great season.
4. Brennan - all nice...
5. Ainge - prospects, hard...
6. Henne - to rank...
7. Santos - I'm a believer
8. Patrick Cowan - He's going to surprise in the draft next year...
9. Haugabook -
10. Ryan/Booty - tie
Chaos Commish
Footballguy
I'll third this Gore thing. I don't think I can bump him ahead of Slaton (cause I have a mancrush), but I sure put him in that tier now.Everyone should take a close look at Andre Woodson, Keenan Burton and Raphael Little of Kentucky this weekend against Brohm and Louisville. Little may be earning a big bump in the RB rankings. Another Westbrook like talent.
el-gato-grande
Footballguy
Alot changing on the college football front, and not just the rankings.
So far this year here are some '08 prospects I think who's stock has gone up or down...
Stock Up
QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon- Doing a great job of leading his team and winning some big games on the road. A guy I didn't even have on my QB board, but he is now making a case as a 1st day QB.
QB Matt Ryan, BC- New coach, system has highlighted his ability to make all the throws and proves he is among the best decision makers and game managers of any QB prospect.
RB Kevin Smith, UCF- Who? It's amazing how little hype this guy has gotten considering his staggering production so far this year. He's clearly taken a huge step forward in his Junior season and if he can continue his impressive play, he may leave early and become one of THE Junior 'backs in this incredible class.
RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon- In part because Dixon has opened things up, Stewart has been very productive. Something that was debatable in the past. As long as he stays healthy, he should become a 1st Round lock.
RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois- With Pierre Thomas gone, Mendenhall has shouldered the load for the surprising Fighting Illinis. Has NFL size and speed and just may be one of THE early entry Junior RB's to come out.
WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State- Several wideouts are seeing their stock rise and fall, but Nelson has had some huge games against big competition. Should vault himself into the upper-echelon of the Senior WR class by year's end.
WR Harry Douglas IV, Louisville- Granted he's got Brohm and hasn't played any extremely tough Defenses yet, it's clear this guy is among the best route-runners in the game and has displayed enough speed to warrant NFL value equivilent to Anthony Gonzalez from '07.
Stock Down
QB Chad Henne, Michigan- Is on the verge of being benched permanently, a pretty tough fall from grace for a guy who came back in hopes of winning a championship.
QB Anthony Morelli, Penn State- There was hope this former stud prospect would pan out with a talented WR corps, but he has done nothing to live up to the hype and doesn't look one bit like a 1st day pick.
RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia- Still hasn't proven he can run tough between the tackles and once again has dissapeared in a big game, in part because of a key fumble. It appears the hype machine may be slowing down and he could tumble into the 2nd Round.
RB Branden Ore, Virginia Tech- Showed flashes last year that he just hasn't displayed thus far. Seems to be trying to do too much with an underacheiving Hokie squad. Probably no chance he declares this year.
WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville- Once thought to be one of the most likely breakout candidates with 1st Round potential, Urrutia is in the Cardinal doghouse and will need to clean up his act if he wants to get back into good graces with the coaching staff and the school he promised to stay at for his Senior season.
Anyone else?
So far this year here are some '08 prospects I think who's stock has gone up or down...
Stock Up
QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon- Doing a great job of leading his team and winning some big games on the road. A guy I didn't even have on my QB board, but he is now making a case as a 1st day QB.
QB Matt Ryan, BC- New coach, system has highlighted his ability to make all the throws and proves he is among the best decision makers and game managers of any QB prospect.
RB Kevin Smith, UCF- Who? It's amazing how little hype this guy has gotten considering his staggering production so far this year. He's clearly taken a huge step forward in his Junior season and if he can continue his impressive play, he may leave early and become one of THE Junior 'backs in this incredible class.
RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon- In part because Dixon has opened things up, Stewart has been very productive. Something that was debatable in the past. As long as he stays healthy, he should become a 1st Round lock.
RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois- With Pierre Thomas gone, Mendenhall has shouldered the load for the surprising Fighting Illinis. Has NFL size and speed and just may be one of THE early entry Junior RB's to come out.
WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State- Several wideouts are seeing their stock rise and fall, but Nelson has had some huge games against big competition. Should vault himself into the upper-echelon of the Senior WR class by year's end.
WR Harry Douglas IV, Louisville- Granted he's got Brohm and hasn't played any extremely tough Defenses yet, it's clear this guy is among the best route-runners in the game and has displayed enough speed to warrant NFL value equivilent to Anthony Gonzalez from '07.
Stock Down
QB Chad Henne, Michigan- Is on the verge of being benched permanently, a pretty tough fall from grace for a guy who came back in hopes of winning a championship.
QB Anthony Morelli, Penn State- There was hope this former stud prospect would pan out with a talented WR corps, but he has done nothing to live up to the hype and doesn't look one bit like a 1st day pick.
RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia- Still hasn't proven he can run tough between the tackles and once again has dissapeared in a big game, in part because of a key fumble. It appears the hype machine may be slowing down and he could tumble into the 2nd Round.
RB Branden Ore, Virginia Tech- Showed flashes last year that he just hasn't displayed thus far. Seems to be trying to do too much with an underacheiving Hokie squad. Probably no chance he declares this year.
WR Mario Urrutia, Louisville- Once thought to be one of the most likely breakout candidates with 1st Round potential, Urrutia is in the Cardinal doghouse and will need to clean up his act if he wants to get back into good graces with the coaching staff and the school he promised to stay at for his Senior season.
Anyone else?
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jurb26
Footballguy
As a long time PSU fan and person who has seen Morelli play since high school, I tell tell you this guy never should have had NFL "stock" to begin with.A. Woodson of Kentucky is a huge oversight to this list IMO.
I think Trea Williams, CB of South Florida has raised his stock a great deal thus far.
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How is this class looked at as so good for dynasty rookie drafts?
No QB's are ever valued highly in rookie drafts. Only superstud WR's are valued highly coming out (the Fitz/CJ/AJ types) and we don't have any of those in this draft class, in fact this draft class is extremely weak at WR.
So as far as high value players were looking at the RB class, and all the good NFL prospects at that position are juniors.
Take into consideration that a couple of these juniors are going to stay in school and were looking at about 1-3 premium rookie picks this coming year.
I keep hearing, "OH MY GOD IS THIS GOING TO BE AN UNREAL DRAFT CLASS FOR ROOKIE DRAFTS". Sorry to burst those peoples bubbles, but it isn't gonna be better than most of the previous ones we've seen.
Once all the dust settles from who declares and the combine gets finished this class won't be near as mind blowing as many are pretending it will be.
No QB's are ever valued highly in rookie drafts. Only superstud WR's are valued highly coming out (the Fitz/CJ/AJ types) and we don't have any of those in this draft class, in fact this draft class is extremely weak at WR.
So as far as high value players were looking at the RB class, and all the good NFL prospects at that position are juniors.
Take into consideration that a couple of these juniors are going to stay in school and were looking at about 1-3 premium rookie picks this coming year.
I keep hearing, "OH MY GOD IS THIS GOING TO BE AN UNREAL DRAFT CLASS FOR ROOKIE DRAFTS". Sorry to burst those peoples bubbles, but it isn't gonna be better than most of the previous ones we've seen.
Once all the dust settles from who declares and the combine gets finished this class won't be near as mind blowing as many are pretending it will be.
EBF
Footballguy
I don't think many people are saying it's a mind-blowing class. It should be a decent group though. As for the junior RBs, I think most of the relevant players will enter. That's been the trend in recent years. The only potential first round rookie RB who returned for his senior year is DeAngelo Williams, and he probably would've left early if not for an injury in his junior year bowl game. Stewart, Slaton, McFadden, and Rice are as good as gone, IMO.
jeter23
Footballguy
As a long time PSU fan and person who has seen Morelli play since high school, I tell tell you this guy never should have had NFL "stock" to begin with.
A. Woodson of Kentucky is a huge oversight to this list IMO.
I think Trea Williams, CB of South Florida has raised his stock a great deal thus far.
My guess is Woodson was not included since he was already considered a 1st rounder coming into the season. Most thought he was top 15, and now he has risen top top 5 status in the eyes of many.
A. Woodson of Kentucky is a huge oversight to this list IMO.
I think Trea Williams, CB of South Florida has raised his stock a great deal thus far.
My guess is Woodson was not included since he was already considered a 1st rounder coming into the season. Most thought he was top 15, and now he has risen top top 5 status in the eyes of many.
In all the 08' rookie draft threads most are gushing like it's the best class ever. Many posts are saying how teams are gonna get their franchise RB in the 3rd/4th round this year due to the amazing RB class.I agree the juniors will most likely come out (although ya never know as i could see Rice possibly staying), but the only lock to be drafted in the 1st round is McFadden. The combine will spell out what happens with Stewart/Slaton/Rice.I can see Slaton/Rice's stocks falling a bunch whereas I personally see Stewart as the clear #2 RB in this class. I've had Stewart on my college FF teams for the past couple years and while he's been banged up he has a perfect size/speed combo that should translate very nicely to the NFL. I almost like him as much as McFadden.So what we've got is about 3-4 high value picks just like most years. Also this WR class reminds me a lot of the 06' class where no WR's were drafted in the 1st round.
EBF
Footballguy
McFadden and Stewart are locks for the first round. Rice and Slaton probably won't go that high and are a little overrated by the FF masses. The difference between this class and the 2007 class is that the 2nd-3rd round RBs actually appear to have some potential. There's some intriguing talent in that 5-6 man second tier (I include Rice and Slaton in that group). But you're more or less correct. When it comes down to it, there will only be 3-4 prospects who carry a lot of value right off the bat. Then again, that's how it is almost every year. I agree that the WR class is similar to the 2006 group (Santonio Holmes was a first rounder BTW). Jackson and Doucet should be top 25 picks. I don't see any other obvious first rounders right now, although a couple guys are making a case. It's not a bad group overall. It just doesn't have the Calvin Johnson or Larry Fitz type player.
fsufan
Footballguy
the NFL is flooded with RBs as is. some of these RBs will be drafted by teams to add depth.Yup, way ahead of schedule, I know. Here are my projected top 12 (first round of a 12 teamer) in your standard non-IDP league. 1. Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas2. Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon3. Mike Hart, RB, Michigan4. Steve Slaton, RB, WVU5. James Davis, RB, Clemson6. Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas7. Ben Olson, QB, UCLA8. Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan9. DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal10. Marcus Monk, WR, Arkansas11. Ian Johnson, RB, Boise State12. Ray Rice, RB, RutgersHave at it.[
I am glad I am not the only one banging that drum. I was high on Bowman (with Bloom as a witness) last August. The huge game against Kansas did not hurt any. The OSU Cowboy QB situation has not been good this year ... as the Mike Gundy tirade will attest. The one negative I have heard on Bowman is effort. He seems to take plays off sometimes. I do think Bowman not meeting expectations might result in him falling in the 2008 NFL Draft and fantasy drafts, though.
EBF
Footballguy
Bears_Man2
Footballguy
If he continues the way he's going, he's going to be a 1st round pick. Protype NFL RB with solid receiving skillsHe's getting more and more recognition as Illinois moves up.
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beto
Footballguy
How has he looked this year?
Solid, but IMO he could be the next Dwayne Jarrett, though he has displayed a bit more speed in his career.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Desean Jackson is unreal.....great hands...great speed, great size, the moves, and good routes....what doesn't he have?
coolnerd
Footballguy
Sweed reminds of a Plexico type...Can make big plays, no matter what his speed times out, but may not be a great route runner or have consistent hands.
Burning Sensation
Footballguy
No question McFadden is #1. Since Slaton's stock has fallen IMO, I would have to say there is no definitive #2, though a case can be made for each of the following guys:
Jonathan Stewart, Steve Slaton, Ray Rice, or Felix Jones. Maybe Mike Hart, but I'm not taking him that high.
Here's a quick updated look at the top 12... ( * = Juniors)
1. RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas*
2. RB Felix Jones, Arkansas*
3. RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*
4. RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia*
5. RB Ray Rice, Rutgers*
6. RB James Davis, Clemson*
7. RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*
8. QB Brian Brohm, Louisville
9. RB Mike Hart, Michigan
10. WR Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State
11. QB Andre Woodson, Kentucky
12. WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*
Next: QB Matt Ryan, RBs Tashard Choice, Ryan Torain, Allen Patrick, Jamaal Charles*, Marlon Lucky*, Ian Johnson*, WRs DeSean Jackson*, Earl Bennett*, Early Doucet, Limas Sweed, Harry Douglas, Mario Manningham, James Hardy*
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EBF
Footballguy
Top 12:
1. RB Darren McFadden - I have my doubts, but it's impossible to ignore the production.
2. RB Rashard Mendenhall - I have to admit that I didn't even know he was a legit NFL prospect entering the season, but he looks like the real deal to me. Might be my favorite RB in this class when it's all said and done.
3. RB Jonathan Stewart - Could be the RB2 off the board come April. Huge junior year and combine will help him vault other backs who have received more attention in the past.
4. RB Steve Slaton - I'm still not sure if his game translates to the NFL, but I'll keep him here for now.
5. RB Ryan Torain - Production is there and he looks pretty good to me.
6. WR Desean Jackson - Size is a concern, but he's a playmaker.
7. RB Ray Rice - Does a lot of things well and could become a starter in the NFL, but could be limited by his lack of elite physical skills.
8. WR Keenan Burton
9. WR Early Doucet
10. RB Mike Hart - I don't really know what to make of him. He strikes me as the classic overachiever. He could be in my final top 5 or outside my final top 15. Combine will be big for him.
11. QB Andre Woodson
12. QB Brian Brohm
A few notes:
My first impression is that this is a deep RB class. There are lots of guys who appear to have a genuine shot to become solid NFL players. The depth is better than I've seen in years.
The QBs are low for a few reasons:
1. QBs are hard to evaluate
2. Even when they pan out, QBs don't carry as much FF value as RBs or WRs (unless you get that rare superstar)
These rankings are subject to drastic changes as I get a better look at these guys. I don't watch as much football as I used to so I'm still playing catch up when it comes to a lot of my evaluations. I need to take a closer look at all of the quarterbacks and at almost all of the WRs. TEs Martin Rucker and Fred Davis could also sneak into my final top 12.
As usual, the combine will help separate the RB pretenders from the legitimate NFL prospects. The second tier backs like Torain, Rice, Hart, and Slaton have a lot at stake in their workouts. Stewart, Mendenhall, and McFadden should ace that part of the process.
1. RB Darren McFadden - I have my doubts, but it's impossible to ignore the production.
2. RB Rashard Mendenhall - I have to admit that I didn't even know he was a legit NFL prospect entering the season, but he looks like the real deal to me. Might be my favorite RB in this class when it's all said and done.
3. RB Jonathan Stewart - Could be the RB2 off the board come April. Huge junior year and combine will help him vault other backs who have received more attention in the past.
4. RB Steve Slaton - I'm still not sure if his game translates to the NFL, but I'll keep him here for now.
5. RB Ryan Torain - Production is there and he looks pretty good to me.
6. WR Desean Jackson - Size is a concern, but he's a playmaker.
7. RB Ray Rice - Does a lot of things well and could become a starter in the NFL, but could be limited by his lack of elite physical skills.
8. WR Keenan Burton
9. WR Early Doucet
10. RB Mike Hart - I don't really know what to make of him. He strikes me as the classic overachiever. He could be in my final top 5 or outside my final top 15. Combine will be big for him.
11. QB Andre Woodson
12. QB Brian Brohm
A few notes:
My first impression is that this is a deep RB class. There are lots of guys who appear to have a genuine shot to become solid NFL players. The depth is better than I've seen in years.
The QBs are low for a few reasons:
1. QBs are hard to evaluate
2. Even when they pan out, QBs don't carry as much FF value as RBs or WRs (unless you get that rare superstar)
These rankings are subject to drastic changes as I get a better look at these guys. I don't watch as much football as I used to so I'm still playing catch up when it comes to a lot of my evaluations. I need to take a closer look at all of the quarterbacks and at almost all of the WRs. TEs Martin Rucker and Fred Davis could also sneak into my final top 12.
As usual, the combine will help separate the RB pretenders from the legitimate NFL prospects. The second tier backs like Torain, Rice, Hart, and Slaton have a lot at stake in their workouts. Stewart, Mendenhall, and McFadden should ace that part of the process.
More and more I'm liking Felix Jones as the 2nd best back in this class. Just tremendous vision, good NFL size, solid speed. Maybe not as versatile as McFadden, but might be more durable considering McFadden's build.Can't wait to see more of this guy... I'll be DVRing every opportunity I get for this guy and the rest of these 2nd tier backs.FWIW- I've seen Mendenhall play a bunch of times and he's DEFINITLY the real deal. I really liked Pierre Thomas last year and although Mendenhall isn't as versatile, he's already proven this year he has the power and stamina to be a workhorse in his NFL future.
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ConstruxBoy
Kate's Daddy
Love this thread. FWIW, all the RBs that aposulli and EBF mention have or will have a Break Down the Tape feature other than Lucky. I'm just behind. 
ConstruxBoy
Kate's Daddy
patrickmcgroin
Footballguy
DeSean Jackson hasn't had the best season so far, any chance he stays another year?
I haven't been all aboard the Jackson hype train, but it would seem he's going to grade out as one of the top, if not THE top WR in this class, regardless of who or how many Juniors come out.One name to look out for is his teamate Lavelle Hawkins. I drafted him in my college league figuring DeSean Jackson would be the target of most defensive coverage VS. Cal providing some openings on the other side of the field. He's been steadily productive until last week where he exploded for 192 yards in a loss to Oregon State. Mel Kiper is apparantly sitting shotgun on the Hawkins bandwagon right now as he now ranks him ahead of any and every Senior WR. I have my doubts.
ConstruxBoy
Kate's Daddy
Tashard Choice got hurt last night. No word on severity yet.
He is a huge target with great hands and good body control ala Joe Jurevicius. His 40 time won't be great, probably in the mid-to-high 5.5 range.Guy just had an insane game at Penn State. Already he was one of my top WRs to watch going into the '08 draft. I see him as a 2nd Rounder who can be a reliable 3rd down target and, obviously, in the redzone.
loose circuits
Footballguy
anyone like Brad Lester from Auburn? He looked like a playmaker against LSU. He's kind of in that Norwood/Bush mold of backs that can't carry the load but can take it to the house on any given down.
Not sure if there is any chance he goes pro?
Not sure if there is any chance he goes pro?
Any SEC 'back is worth noting. Tough to gauge these guys' talents though since Tubberville, like many other coaches doesn't use a one-back system to any degree. Tubb hesitated to lean on him since he returned from suspension, but he did see the majority of the touches against LSU. The rest of the season will be very telling for Lester, but I don't see any reason he would grade out as a top prospect, making him a guy to watch in '09 at best.
