2008 Rookie Draft Picks (1 Viewer)

[EBF]

Studly game for Jonathan Stewart today against South Florida. Right now he's at 280 total yards and 2 TDs on 23 carries and 2 catches. He's flashing speed, power, acceleration, and enough quickness to make people miss and gain extra yards in the secondary. Guy is built like a tank and is a mortal lock for the first round after this game and this season. The only question now is how high does he go? I think he's locked up the RB2 spot in this draft class. Chicago (1.14), Arizona (1.16), and Houston (1.18) seem like realistic possibilities. A number of the playoff teams would also be good fits if he were to slip into the 20's.

Stewart has the ability to be really special at the next level. I think with an excellent combine/pro-day he will solidify his place in the first round. I also agree with you that he may be 1b when it comes to talent between he and McFadden. It's my belief that McFadden will need to go to the right system to reach his potential where Stewart could go to just about any system and reach his.My top 51a. McFadden1b. Stewart3. F. Jones4. Mendenhall5. Slaton

It's going to be interesting to watch these guys over the next few years. McFadden will go earlier in the NFL draft and it will be difficult to justify taking anyone else at 1.01 in rookie drafts, but Stewart has a better build for the NFL game and a skill set that more closely resembles the average starting NFL RB. As I've said before, I think he's probably the safest RB in the draft in terms of FF value. He is going to start in the NFL and probably be a true 300+ carry workhorse.I'm curious to see how high he can push his draft stock. He wasn't as highly-regarded as Marshawn Lynch was at the same stage of his career entering this season, but he's a true workout warrior and the type of guy who will pass the eyeball test with flying colors. As I've mentioned elsewhere, he benches over 400 pounds and has the second highest power clean of any player in Oregon football history. The only guy who lifted more is Haloti Ngata. He's a 340 pound defensive tackle for the Ravens. Stewart is an athletic freak. That much is for sure.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

lots of talk about running styles, but what other qualities do these guys possess ?

pass catching ability (for PPR leagues) Jones

pass blocking (means they will stay on the field on passing downs) Hart

short yardage (TD heavy leagues) Rice

breakaway speed (long TDs) A lot of them, McFadden, Stewart, Johnson, Charles

kick return ability (for return yardage leagues) Stewart, McFadden, Johnson

option passes ( I know McFadden has this one down pat) McFadden has a really good arm

Darren McFadden

Jonathan Stewart

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

Chris Johnson

Jamaal Charles

Steve Slaton

Ray Rice

Matt Forte

Ryan Torain

Tashard Choice

Mike Hart

My opinions above

 

[FUBAR]

Studly game for Jonathan Stewart today against South Florida. Right now he's at 280 total yards and 2 TDs on 23 carries and 2 catches. He's flashing speed, power, acceleration, and enough quickness to make people miss and gain extra yards in the secondary. Guy is built like a tank and is a mortal lock for the first round after this game and this season. The only question now is how high does he go? I think he's locked up the RB2 spot in this draft class. Chicago (1.14), Arizona (1.16), and Houston (1.18) seem like realistic possibilities. A number of the playoff teams would also be good fits if he were to slip into the 20's.

Stewart has the ability to be really special at the next level. I think with an excellent combine/pro-day he will solidify his place in the first round. I also agree with you that he may be 1b when it comes to talent between he and McFadden. It's my belief that McFadden will need to go to the right system to reach his potential where Stewart could go to just about any system and reach his.My top 51a. McFadden1b. Stewart3. F. Jones4. Mendenhall5. Slaton

It's going to be interesting to watch these guys over the next few years. McFadden will go earlier in the NFL draft and it will be difficult to justify taking anyone else at 1.01 in rookie drafts, but Stewart has a better build for the NFL game and a skill set that more closely resembles the average starting NFL RB. As I've said before, I think he's probably the safest RB in the draft in terms of FF value. He is going to start in the NFL and probably be a true 300+ carry workhorse.I'm curious to see how high he can push his draft stock. He wasn't as highly-regarded as Marshawn Lynch was at the same stage of his career entering this season, but he's a true workout warrior and the type of guy who will pass the eyeball test with flying colors. As I've mentioned elsewhere, he benches over 400 pounds and has the second highest power clean of any player in Oregon football history. The only guy who lifted more is Haloti Ngata. He's a 340 pound defensive tackle for the Ravens. Stewart is an athletic freak. That much is for sure.

I'm glad to see you bring up Lynch in the conversation. We've discussed Peterson vs. McFadden a lot, but how do the other RBs compare with recent rookie RBs?Is Stewert better than Lynch? Please don't give me the "we need to see what team he lands on" response, I'm asking about pure talent, as I still believe talent wins out in the end. I don't think it matters what system Stew lands in either. This may be more the case for Mendenhall, who probably needs a good OL moreso than Stew; Slaton to me will very much depend on his team for success. Just off hand, if you can, compare the top 3-5 backs in the last few years. TIA

 

[EBF]

Is Stewert better than Lynch? Please don't give me the "we need to see what team he lands on" response, I'm asking about pure talent, as I still believe talent wins out in the end. I don't think it matters what system Stew lands in either. This may be more the case for Mendenhall, who probably needs a good OL moreso than Stew; Slaton to me will very much depend on his team for success.

Just off hand, if you can, compare the top 3-5 backs in the last few years. TIA

Stewart vs. Lynch is an interesting argument. Lynch has a lot of innate RB skills and was consistently excellent throughout his entire college career. That said, he has merely average physical gifts for a first round RB. His speed/explosiveness/quickness are merely good and not great. Stewart is a much more impressive physical specimen and is likely to generate a lot of buzz at the combine once people realize what a freak of nature he is. It's not entirely out of the question for him to make a late surge up the boards and get picked in the top 10. As for comparing the top backs from the last few years, I would probably divide them into tiers as follows:

Surefire studs

Reggie Bush

Adrian Peterson

Surefire starters

Steven Jackson

Kevin Jones

Cadillac Williams

Cedric Benson

Laurence Maroney

Marshawn Lynch

Jonathan Stewart

Darren McFadden

Talented, but risky

Chris Perry

Julius Jones

Joseph Addai

DeAngelo Williams

LenDale White

Ronnie Brown

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

This list is meant to reflect my thoughts of these players when they were prospects. Obviously some of them are better than I thought they were and some of them are worse.

I would lump Stewart in with guys like Jackson, Cadillac, Maroney, and Lynch. He's not necessarily a no-brainer stud like Bush and Peterson, but he offers a very solid overall package of physical skills and football instincts. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he will eventually be a starter in the NFL. That's also how I felt about Lynch and Jackson, though I didn't necessarily think either was destined for top 5 status.

Stewart has some latent upside because he might end up having one of the best combines of any RB in recent memory. I had thought he was a 4.5 guy, but after watching the game yesterday I'm pretty confident that he can run a 4.4 at the combine. Couple that with his freakish strength and ideal body type, and you have a guy with a pretty high ceiling at the next level. Nevertheless, there's no way you can rank him alongside Bush and Peterson as a prospect.

I don't see McFadden as a surefire stud and was actually tempted to slide him into the "talented, but risky" tier. He has elite acceleration and long speed, but there are enough holes in his game to keep him outside the stud tier. The fact that he might not be built to carry a full workload at the NFL level gives him some bust risk. I think he'll be a contributor at the next level though.

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

 

[BigTex]

Great insight as usual EBF. I don't see alot of college football, only the bowl games. I rely on guys like you and your analysis of players. Keep up the great work.

 

[coolnerd]

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

I have seen about 4 or 5 Illinios games this year, and Mendenhall has more of a wow factor than I remember when watching Addai and Jones in college. I know he was fairly highly recruited out high school and had a serious yard per carry last year, but did not get many chances with Pierre Thomas being the lead back. I think he will be close to Ronnie Brown with his measurables and probably upside. Note: he just had a very nice 80 yard run against USC which displayed very good long speed.

 

[EBF]

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

I have seen about 4 or 5 Illinios games this year, and Mendenhall has more of a wow factor than I remember when watching Addai and Jones in college. I know he was fairly highly recruited out high school and had a serious yard per carry last year, but did not get many chances with Pierre Thomas being the lead back. I think he will be close to Ronnie Brown with his measurables and probably upside. Note: he just had a very nice 80 yard run against USC which displayed very good long speed.

I saw Julius Jones shred Stanford for 218 yards in person. He had plenty of "wow." Remember, he was considered a top 10 dynasty back after his rookie season. He impressed everyone with a handful of sick jukes against the Bears on Thanksgiving that year. So while we might now think of him as a mediocre talent, I think that viewpoint has been clouded by hindsight. Julius had some skills. I compare Mendenhall to Addai because both guys offer a lot of physical ability and upside, yet neither really seems exceptional enough to be a top 20 pick. That said, I like Mendenhall well enough and think he could be a productive starter at the NFL level. He's a solid first round prospect and a surefire top 3-4 pick in this year's rookie drafts.

 

[coolnerd]

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

I have seen about 4 or 5 Illinios games this year, and Mendenhall has more of a wow factor than I remember when watching Addai and Jones in college. I know he was fairly highly recruited out high school and had a serious yard per carry last year, but did not get many chances with Pierre Thomas being the lead back. I think he will be close to Ronnie Brown with his measurables and probably upside. Note: he just had a very nice 80 yard run against USC which displayed very good long speed.

I saw Julius Jones shred Stanford for 218 yards in person. He had plenty of "wow." Remember, he was considered a top 10 dynasty back after his rookie season. He impressed everyone with a handful of sick jukes against the Bears on Thanksgiving that year. So while we might now think of him as a mediocre talent, I think that viewpoint has been clouded by hindsight. Julius had some skills. I compare Mendenhall to Addai because both guys offer a lot of physical ability and upside, yet neither really seems exceptional enough to be a top 20 pick. That said, I like Mendenhall well enough and think he could be a productive starter at the NFL level. He's a solid first round prospect and a surefire top 3-4 pick in this year's rookie drafts.

I am pretty sure it is not posted anywhere on here, but I personally remember having Jones more in the Mike Hartish 3rd round category, and if anything have been mildly surprised with Julius as a pro, especially the early pro version. Our overall thoughts on where Mendenhall will end up being drafted seem close enough, though.

 

[FUBAR]

Is Stewert better than Lynch? Please don't give me the "we need to see what team he lands on" response, I'm asking about pure talent, as I still believe talent wins out in the end. I don't think it matters what system Stew lands in either. This may be more the case for Mendenhall, who probably needs a good OL moreso than Stew; Slaton to me will very much depend on his team for success.

Just off hand, if you can, compare the top 3-5 backs in the last few years. TIA

Stewart vs. Lynch is an interesting argument. Lynch has a lot of innate RB skills and was consistently excellent throughout his entire college career. That said, he has merely average physical gifts for a first round RB. His speed/explosiveness/quickness are merely good and not great. Stewart is a much more impressive physical specimen and is likely to generate a lot of buzz at the combine once people realize what a freak of nature he is. It's not entirely out of the question for him to make a late surge up the boards and get picked in the top 10. As for comparing the top backs from the last few years, I would probably divide them into tiers as follows:

Surefire studs

Reggie Bush

Adrian Peterson

Surefire starters

Steven Jackson

Kevin Jones

Cadillac Williams

Cedric Benson

Laurence Maroney

Marshawn Lynch

Jonathan Stewart

Darren McFadden

Talented, but risky

Chris Perry

Julius Jones

Joseph Addai

DeAngelo Williams

LenDale White

Ronnie Brown

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

This list is meant to reflect my thoughts of these players when they were prospects. Obviously some of them are better than I thought they were and some of them are worse.

I would lump Stewart in with guys like Jackson, Cadillac, Maroney, and Lynch. He's not necessarily a no-brainer stud like Bush and Peterson, but he offers a very solid overall package of physical skills and football instincts. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he will eventually be a starter in the NFL. That's also how I felt about Lynch and Jackson, though I didn't necessarily think either was destined for top 5 status.

Stewart has some latent upside because he might end up having one of the best combines of any RB in recent memory. I had thought he was a 4.5 guy, but after watching the game yesterday I'm pretty confident that he can run a 4.4 at the combine. Couple that with his freakish strength and ideal body type, and you have a guy with a pretty high ceiling at the next level. Nevertheless, there's no way you can rank him alongside Bush and Peterson as a prospect.

I don't see McFadden as a surefire stud and was actually tempted to slide him into the "talented, but risky" tier. He has elite acceleration and long speed, but there are enough holes in his game to keep him outside the stud tier. The fact that he might not be built to carry a full workload at the NFL level gives him some bust risk. I think he'll be a contributor at the next level though.

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

Awesome, thank you.I loved this reply up to the mention of Westbrook. No offense and many people do it, but why use the ultimate best case scenerio for him? Why not use a player he's more likely to emulate like Kevin Faulk or Lorenzo Booker? It just seems using these names sets the bar way too high and creates too high expectations.

 

[EBF]

Is Stewert better than Lynch? Please don't give me the "we need to see what team he lands on" response, I'm asking about pure talent, as I still believe talent wins out in the end. I don't think it matters what system Stew lands in either. This may be more the case for Mendenhall, who probably needs a good OL moreso than Stew; Slaton to me will very much depend on his team for success.

Just off hand, if you can, compare the top 3-5 backs in the last few years. TIA

Stewart vs. Lynch is an interesting argument. Lynch has a lot of innate RB skills and was consistently excellent throughout his entire college career. That said, he has merely average physical gifts for a first round RB. His speed/explosiveness/quickness are merely good and not great. Stewart is a much more impressive physical specimen and is likely to generate a lot of buzz at the combine once people realize what a freak of nature he is. It's not entirely out of the question for him to make a late surge up the boards and get picked in the top 10. As for comparing the top backs from the last few years, I would probably divide them into tiers as follows:

Surefire studs

Reggie Bush

Adrian Peterson

Surefire starters

Steven Jackson

Kevin Jones

Cadillac Williams

Cedric Benson

Laurence Maroney

Marshawn Lynch

Jonathan Stewart

Darren McFadden

Talented, but risky

Chris Perry

Julius Jones

Joseph Addai

DeAngelo Williams

LenDale White

Ronnie Brown

Rashard Mendenhall

Felix Jones

This list is meant to reflect my thoughts of these players when they were prospects. Obviously some of them are better than I thought they were and some of them are worse.

I would lump Stewart in with guys like Jackson, Cadillac, Maroney, and Lynch. He's not necessarily a no-brainer stud like Bush and Peterson, but he offers a very solid overall package of physical skills and football instincts. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he will eventually be a starter in the NFL. That's also how I felt about Lynch and Jackson, though I didn't necessarily think either was destined for top 5 status.

Stewart has some latent upside because he might end up having one of the best combines of any RB in recent memory. I had thought he was a 4.5 guy, but after watching the game yesterday I'm pretty confident that he can run a 4.4 at the combine. Couple that with his freakish strength and ideal body type, and you have a guy with a pretty high ceiling at the next level. Nevertheless, there's no way you can rank him alongside Bush and Peterson as a prospect.

I don't see McFadden as a surefire stud and was actually tempted to slide him into the "talented, but risky" tier. He has elite acceleration and long speed, but there are enough holes in his game to keep him outside the stud tier. The fact that he might not be built to carry a full workload at the NFL level gives him some bust risk. I think he'll be a contributor at the next level though.

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

Awesome, thank you.I loved this reply up to the mention of Westbrook. No offense and many people do it, but why use the ultimate best case scenerio for him? Why not use a player he's more likely to emulate like Kevin Faulk or Lorenzo Booker? It just seems using these names sets the bar way too high and creates too high expectations.

Jones is considered a top 15-30 prospect and is likely to go significantly higher in the draft than either Booker or Faulk did. For the record though, I said Jones reminds me of Westbrook. That's a very different thing from saying Jones is Westbrook. The fact that I put him in my third tier shows that I'm not assuming he'll be a stud.

 

[az_prof]

I was very impressed by Mendenhall today and thought he looked much better than McFadden looked in his bowl. How about Temple? Is he not NFL eligible?

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

I have seen about 4 or 5 Illinios games this year, and Mendenhall has more of a wow factor than I remember when watching Addai and Jones in college. I know he was fairly highly recruited out high school and had a serious yard per carry last year, but did not get many chances with Pierre Thomas being the lead back. I think he will be close to Ronnie Brown with his measurables and probably upside. Note: he just had a very nice 80 yard run against USC which displayed very good long speed.

I saw Julius Jones shred Stanford for 218 yards in person. He had plenty of "wow." Remember, he was considered a top 10 dynasty back after his rookie season. He impressed everyone with a handful of sick jukes against the Bears on Thanksgiving that year. So while we might now think of him as a mediocre talent, I think that viewpoint has been clouded by hindsight. Julius had some skills. I compare Mendenhall to Addai because both guys offer a lot of physical ability and upside, yet neither really seems exceptional enough to be a top 20 pick. That said, I like Mendenhall well enough and think he could be a productive starter at the NFL level. He's a solid first round prospect and a surefire top 3-4 pick in this year's rookie drafts.

 

[Jeff Tefertiller]

Temple is eligible but is petitioning to get another year for "hardship/health" reasons. Temple looked very good today,

I was very impressed by Mendenhall today and thought he looked much better than McFadden looked in his bowl. How about Temple? Is he not NFL eligible?

Rashard Mendenhall is similar as a prospect to Joseph Addai, Julius Jones, and Ronnie Brown. He has a nice set of physical skills and is capable of becoming a starter at the NFL, but is not a lock to succeed IMO. He reminds me a lot of a stronger version of Julius.

I have seen about 4 or 5 Illinios games this year, and Mendenhall has more of a wow factor than I remember when watching Addai and Jones in college. I know he was fairly highly recruited out high school and had a serious yard per carry last year, but did not get many chances with Pierre Thomas being the lead back. I think he will be close to Ronnie Brown with his measurables and probably upside. Note: he just had a very nice 80 yard run against USC which displayed very good long speed.

I saw Julius Jones shred Stanford for 218 yards in person. He had plenty of "wow." Remember, he was considered a top 10 dynasty back after his rookie season. He impressed everyone with a handful of sick jukes against the Bears on Thanksgiving that year. So while we might now think of him as a mediocre talent, I think that viewpoint has been clouded by hindsight. Julius had some skills. I compare Mendenhall to Addai because both guys offer a lot of physical ability and upside, yet neither really seems exceptional enough to be a top 20 pick. That said, I like Mendenhall well enough and think he could be a productive starter at the NFL level. He's a solid first round prospect and a surefire top 3-4 pick in this year's rookie drafts.

 

[Poppa]

 

[FUBAR]

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

Awesome, thank you.I loved this reply up to the mention of Westbrook. No offense and many people do it, but why use the ultimate best case scenerio for him? Why not use a player he's more likely to emulate like Kevin Faulk or Lorenzo Booker? It just seems using these names sets the bar way too high and creates too high expectations.

Jones is considered a top 15-30 prospect and is likely to go significantly higher in the draft than either Booker or Faulk did. For the record though, I said Jones reminds me of Westbrook. That's a very different thing from saying Jones is Westbrook. The fact that I put him in my third tier shows that I'm not assuming he'll be a stud.

When did Westbrook go in the draft? I understand your point and the comparison, but I guarantee at least a few readers will read your comment and take it as a reason to have unrealistic expectations.

Maybe there isn't a good comparison for making my point, maybe a poor man's Reggie Bush - but that's exactly what Booker was labelled.

 

[EBF]

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

Awesome, thank you.I loved this reply up to the mention of Westbrook. No offense and many people do it, but why use the ultimate best case scenerio for him? Why not use a player he's more likely to emulate like Kevin Faulk or Lorenzo Booker? It just seems using these names sets the bar way too high and creates too high expectations.

Jones is considered a top 15-30 prospect and is likely to go significantly higher in the draft than either Booker or Faulk did. For the record though, I said Jones reminds me of Westbrook. That's a very different thing from saying Jones is Westbrook. The fact that I put him in my third tier shows that I'm not assuming he'll be a stud.

When did Westbrook go in the draft? I understand your point and the comparison, but I guarantee at least a few readers will read your comment and take it as a reason to have unrealistic expectations.

Maybe there isn't a good comparison for making my point, maybe a poor man's Reggie Bush - but that's exactly what Booker was labelled.

The important thing is this:Jones = First round pick

Booker = Third round pick

Jones = 200+ pounds

Booker = 190 pounds

These two players should not be compared.

 

[Jedimaster21]

Jones is the most enigmatic of this crop's top backs. He flashes a lot of talent and reminds me of Brian Westbrook, but he's always been a RBBC guy and it's difficult to project whether or not he can be an every-down guy in the NFL. That uncertainty keeps him in the third tier.

Awesome, thank you.I loved this reply up to the mention of Westbrook. No offense and many people do it, but why use the ultimate best case scenerio for him? Why not use a player he's more likely to emulate like Kevin Faulk or Lorenzo Booker? It just seems using these names sets the bar way too high and creates too high expectations.

Jones is considered a top 15-30 prospect and is likely to go significantly higher in the draft than either Booker or Faulk did. For the record though, I said Jones reminds me of Westbrook. That's a very different thing from saying Jones is Westbrook. The fact that I put him in my third tier shows that I'm not assuming he'll be a stud.

When did Westbrook go in the draft? I understand your point and the comparison, but I guarantee at least a few readers will read your comment and take it as a reason to have unrealistic expectations.

Maybe there isn't a good comparison for making my point, maybe a poor man's Reggie Bush - but that's exactly what Booker was labelled.

The important thing is this:Jones = First round pick

Booker = Third round pick

Jones = 200+ pounds

Booker = 190 pounds

These two players should not be compared.

Jones was also extremely productive at the college level, despite only getting a small portion of the pie. Booker, while talented, is undersized as EBF stated, and never turned that ability into production on the field.

 

[awesomeness]

Rookie drafts are my favourite part about FF. I won the superbowl in one of my leagues last year, but the whole day was more stress then enjoyment, and winning was more of a relief feeling than anything else. Im just super excited for the rookie draft every single year

 

[Trey]

Jamaal Charles has declared. I'm a bit surprised.

 

[EBF]

Jamaal Charles has declared. I'm a bit surprised.

I'm a bit surprised too given UT's history of retaining its underclassmen. Maybe he could've gone higher next year, but I don't think he's the type of guy who was worried about getting his degree. He'll now join what could be a crowded mix of backs competing for draft slots in rounds 2-3.

 

[sparkky]

any thoughts about if Charles decision will possibly influence any other under classmen RB's from coming out?

 

[EBF]

any thoughts about if Charles decision will possibly influence any other under classmen RB's from coming out?

I don't think it will have any effect.

 

[broncofan13000]

Watching Chris Johnson of East Carolina. He is legitimately fast, but does not even look as big as his listed 5'11 200 lbs. Does not run with the power needed for a pro feature back, but has experience as a WR and made a couple of nice catches. Not seen much wiggle, but has been able to run by Boise State and ECU ol is manhandling the DL. Returning KOs. My guess is that he projects as a 3rd down back/returner unless he gains 10-15 lbs.

He could get drafted in the third round, but I think it's his special teams potential that intrigues teams as much as his running skills. Similar to Yamon Figurs in that regard (Figurs offers very little as WR, but was drafted in the third round because of his return skills).

I'm intrigued with Chris Johnson...haven't seen him play; is he known to run soft? Kiper seems to love him...Chris Johnson Scouting Report

 

[aposulli]

Updated list.

Of the QBs, RBs, and WRs I believe so far the only official early entrants have been Jamaal Charles and Mario Urrutia. All of the Juniors I listed below, I expect to also consider leaving early. (*=Junior)

QBs

Potential Franchise Guys

Brian Brohm, Louisville

Matt Ryan, Boston College

The Next David Carr?

Andre Woodson, Kentucky

Solid Pros

Joe Flacco, Delaware

Eric Ainge, Tennessee

John David Booty, USC

Chad Henne, Michigan

Risky Propositions

Colt Brennan, Hawaii

Dennis Dixon, Oregon

Josh Johnson, San Diego

Matt Flynn, LSU

Sam Keller, Nebraska

RBs

Franchise Player

Darren McFadden, Arkansas*

Potential Fantasy Studs

Jonathan Stewart, Oregon*

Felix Jones, Arkansas*

Future NFL Starters

Ray Rice, Rutgers*

Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois*

Steve Slaton, West Virginia*

More Valuable To Their NFL Team Than Your Fantasy Team

James Davis, Clemson*

Kevin Smith, Central Florida*

Mike Hart, Michigan

Jamaal Charles, Texas*

Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech

Chris Johnson, East Carolina

Sleeper Bellcow Backs

Ryan Torain, Arizona

Allen Patrick, Oklahoma

Matt Forte, Tulane

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Ole Miss

Keon Lattimore, Maryland

Corey Boyd, South Carolina

Change Of Pace Backs

Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State

Yvenson Bernard, Oregon State

Jacob Hester, LSU

Justin Forsett, California

Rafael Little, Kentucky

Anthony Aldridge, Houston



WRs

Special Talents

Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State

Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma*

Early Doucet, LSU

Overrated For Fantasy Purposes

DeSean Jackson, California*

Go-To Guys

Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt*

Limas Sweed, Texas

D.J. Hall, Alabama

Mario Manningham, Michigan*

James Hardy, Indiana*

Harry Douglas IV, Louisville

Keenan Burton, Kentucky

Potentially No.2 Guys

Devin Thomas, Michigan State*

Mario Urrutia, Louisville*

Donnie Avery, Houston

Dorien Bryant, Purdue

Lavelle Hawkins, California

Marcus Monk, Arkansas

Andre Caldwell, Florida

Wildcards

Adrian Arrington, Michigan*

Marcus Smith, New Mexico

Jordy Nelson, Kansas State

Davone Bess, Hawaii*

Ryan Grice-Mullen, Hawaii*

Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech

Justin Harper, Virginia Tech

Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech

Sammie Stroughter, Oregon State

Paul Hubbard, Wisconsin

De'Cody Fagg, FSU

Todd Blythe, Iowa State

Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina

Ernie Wheelwright, Minnesota

Billy Pittman, Texas

William Franklin, Missouri

Maurice Purify, Nebraska

Steve Johnson, Kentucky

Lance Leggett, Miami (FL)

Darius Reynaud, WVU*

 

[DawnBTVS]

I've been looking over the Seniors and I was wondering what people thought of the following players?

QB Martin Hankins (Memphis): ESPN has him listed at 6'2" and 210 lbs. but for his college career, he's completed almost 63% of his passes in 1,375 attempts. He also has a 78 TD/37 INT ratio. Is he in the discussion at all (i.e. 4th-5th round?) or will he more likely be a 7th round/UDFA?

RB Jalen Parmele (Toledo): ESPN has him at 6'0", 221 lbs (great size). He seems to be a little under the radar but he did run for 3,119 yards (5.30 YPC) and 28 TD. Is it another case of playing in a weaker conference and questionable competition or is he just not as good as his numbers say he is?

WR Anthony Russo (Washington): Listed at 5'11", 185 lbs. but he had 122 catches for 1944 yards (15.93 YPC) but only 9 TD. Does he have any speed or are his stats inflated by the system?

WR Donnie Avery (Houston): Listed at 5'11" and 190 lbs, he had a great college career. 210 catches for 3,289 yards (15.66 YPC) and 19 TD. He did well even with Kevin Kolb entering the draft last year. Is he for real?

 

[coolnerd]

I've been looking over the Seniors and I was wondering what people thought of the following players?QB Martin Hankins (Memphis): ESPN has him listed at 6'2" and 210 lbs. but for his college career, he's completed almost 63% of his passes in 1,375 attempts. He also has a 78 TD/37 INT ratio. Is he in the discussion at all (i.e. 4th-5th round?) or will he more likely be a 7th round/UDFA?RB Jalen Parmele (Toledo): ESPN has him at 6'0", 221 lbs (great size). He seems to be a little under the radar but he did run for 3,119 yards (5.30 YPC) and 28 TD. Is it another case of playing in a weaker conference and questionable competition or is he just not as good as his numbers say he is?WR Anthony Russo (Washington): Listed at 5'11", 185 lbs. but he had 122 catches for 1944 yards (15.93 YPC) but only 9 TD. Does he have any speed or are his stats inflated by the system?WR Donnie Avery (Houston): Listed at 5'11" and 190 lbs, he had a great college career. 210 catches for 3,289 yards (15.66 YPC) and 19 TD. He did well even with Kevin Kolb entering the draft last year. Is he for real?

Avery is the only on I have seen multiple times. He should fall within the mid-round 3rd to 5th range. He has legitimate speed and quickness giving him a chance as a return man also. He is a guy to have your radar.Parmele- I am pretty sure I Toledo saw play. but he did not standout in whatever game that I watched.Hankins- I saw Memphis only once, but did not think of him with much potential. Russo- no idea.

 

[Iron_Far]

Updated. Still have Slaton in the top half of fantasy drafts.

 

[EBF]

Ray Rice is in the middle of a monster game. After this performance, I think the odds are about 101% that he'll enter the draft. He has carried the ball a ton this season and would be a fool to subject himself to another season of 350+ carries.

I expect him to be a 2nd-3rd round pick depending on how well he performs at the combine. If he runs faster than expected (sub 4.5) and checks in at 210+ pounds then it's conceivable that he'll go in the late first round. Realistically though, somewhere in the 40-75 range is more likely.

 

[Rodeojones]

Watching Chris Johnson of East Carolina. He is legitimately fast, but does not even look as big as his listed 5'11 200 lbs. Does not run with the power needed for a pro feature back, but has experience as a WR and made a couple of nice catches. Not seen much wiggle, but has been able to run by Boise State and ECU ol is manhandling the DL. Returning KOs. My guess is that he projects as a 3rd down back/returner unless he gains 10-15 lbs.

He could get drafted in the third round, but I think it's his special teams potential that intrigues teams as much as his running skills. Similar to Yamon Figurs in that regard (Figurs offers very little as WR, but was drafted in the third round because of his return skills).

I'm intrigued with Chris Johnson...haven't seen him play; is he known to run soft? Kiper seems to love him...Chris Johnson Scouting Report

I was suprised with Kipers love for Johnson as well. He has him ranked #3 behind McFadden and Jones.

Question: Which offensive players who are draft eligible have been standouts during the bowl season?

Kiper: You have to start with East Carolina's senior running back Chris Johnson, who had 418 all-purpose yards against Boise State in the Hawaii Bowl. He had 233 rushing yards and one touchdown; 32 receiving yards and a touchdown; and 153 kickoff return yards. He should run the 40-yard dash somewhere in the 4.3 range. With his speed and versatility, Johnson could be the third running back taken after Arkansas' Darren McFadden and Felix Jones -- assuming both McFadden and Jones declare for the draft.

Link (ESPN Insider)

 

[doubletrouble]

Watching Chris Johnson of East Carolina. He is legitimately fast, but does not even look as big as his listed 5'11 200 lbs. Does not run with the power needed for a pro feature back, but has experience as a WR and made a couple of nice catches. Not seen much wiggle, but has been able to run by Boise State and ECU ol is manhandling the DL. Returning KOs. My guess is that he projects as a 3rd down back/returner unless he gains 10-15 lbs.

He could get drafted in the third round, but I think it's his special teams potential that intrigues teams as much as his running skills. Similar to Yamon Figurs in that regard (Figurs offers very little as WR, but was drafted in the third round because of his return skills).

I'm intrigued with Chris Johnson...haven't seen him play; is he known to run soft? Kiper seems to love him...Chris Johnson Scouting Report

I was suprised with Kipers love for Johnson as well. He has him ranked #3 behind McFadden and Jones.

Question: Which offensive players who are draft eligible have been standouts during the bowl season?

Kiper: You have to start with East Carolina's senior running back Chris Johnson, who had 418 all-purpose yards against Boise State in the Hawaii Bowl. He had 233 rushing yards and one touchdown; 32 receiving yards and a touchdown; and 153 kickoff return yards. He should run the 40-yard dash somewhere in the 4.3 range. With his speed and versatility, Johnson could be the third running back taken after Arkansas' Darren McFadden and Felix Jones -- assuming both McFadden and Jones declare for the draft.

Link (ESPN Insider)

Looks like Kevin Smith of UCF is coming out....new rankings anyone?

 

[aposulli]

Looks like Kevin Smith of UCF is coming out....new rankings anyone?

Just read so myself.I think he'll be drafted in the 1st-2nd Round but wouldn't be at all shocked if he didn't become one of the 5 best RBs in this class.

 

[Gamma1210]

For the NFL draft, does anyone think that with the RB depth in this class, it will cause some of these guys to get drafted later then we think? For example if SEA has several of these guys rated close, is there a chance they take BPA in round 1 and a RB they know will be there in round 2-3?

At what point are these RBs the true BPA and not a need only pick? I'm sure 2-3 will break from the pack with combine numbers, but it reminds me of the WR class from last year where you had a run of talented WRs in round 3 who could have gone much higher in most other years but there was so much depth that teams just waited for one to fall.

Or am I just way off base here? I doubt it has much effect on fantasy rookie drafts but maybe we are overestimating NFL draft position.

 

[Cookiemonster]

For the NFL draft, does anyone think that with the RB depth in this class, it will cause some of these guys to get drafted later then we think? For example if SEA has several of these guys rated close, is there a chance they take BPA in round 1 and a RB they know will be there in round 2-3? At what point are these RBs the true BPA and not a need only pick? I'm sure 2-3 will break from the pack with combine numbers, but it reminds me of the WR class from last year where you had a run of talented WRs in round 3 who could have gone much higher in most other years but there was so much depth that teams just waited for one to fall. Or am I just way off base here? I doubt it has much effect on fantasy rookie drafts but maybe we are overestimating NFL draft position.

I would expect it to be much like our fantasy drafts w/ QBs or TEs or DSTs. Once the top one or two from the 2nd tier go, it will be a landslide. If you didn't get your player when you needed one, you may miss out by the time your turn comes back around. If you want to wait for a 3rd tier guy and another landslide goes before your next pick, you are screwed. Sometimes, you have to sidestep value a little to get what you want/need. With all of the aging vets and open holes at RB in the NFL, I'm assuming all of the quality, talented RBs are off the board by the 3rd like most other years. Supply is high in this draft, but so is demand. Was it the '04 WR class that was like this (L.Evans, R.Williams etc.)?

 

[Trey]

As more and more RBs declare, the value on those 1st Round 08 selections creep up and up... Good WRs/QBs will be falling way down to make room.

 

[Trade Master]

As more and more RBs declare, the value on those 1st Round 08 selections creep up and up... Good WRs/QBs will be falling way down to make room.

Wouldn't the value go down? If there are only 2 or 3 [potential] stud RBs coming out, that makes the first 2 or 3 picks very valuable. But if 3 or 4 more [potential] studs declare for the draft, that, while adding more overall value to the first 6 or 7 picks, takes away value from the top-3. Supply and demand. Right?

 

[Gamma1210]

As more and more RBs declare, the value on those 1st Round 08 selections creep up and up... Good WRs/QBs will be falling way down to make room.

Wouldn't the value go down? If there are only 2 or 3 [potential] stud RBs coming out, that makes the first 2 or 3 picks very valuable. But if 3 or 4 more [potential] studs declare for the draft, that, while adding more overall value to the first 6 or 7 picks, takes away value from the top-3. Supply and demand. Right?

Agreed. I feel most owners here will find a cutoff point to where the rookie draft value drops a good deal. Last year it was AD, CJ and Lynch and the cutoff after 1.03. In 06 you saw many owners seeing Bush as 1.01 then Addai, D. Williams, Maroney, and White as a matter of preference and wouldn't give up a lot more for 1.02 then for 1.05. In 05 many owners just wanted 1.03 because they would get one of Benson, Caddy, and Brown. Obviously if you were high on one player you would have to move up higher. Since we don't know the situations yet, the line hasn't been drawn and really only 1.01 has the top value. As we are evaluating rookies, we need to try to find an aiming point as to not get shut out in terms of value. Imagine this time last year you traded for the 1.04 giving up good value. After the draft your pick was worth less because 1.01-1.03 were looked at as the picks to want so no one is going to give up close to the value for your pick as you hoped it would be worth. If you were able to get the 1.03 this time last year, you probably could have gotten a ton for it post NFL draft. That said I have a feeling there will be two significant points of value decrease this year. at 1.03 or 1.04 will be the first drop from DMac, Stewart, Mendenhall and maybe Jones. Then we have the huge group of 2nd tier RBs who we have to assume at least some will be in a good situation. My prediction is 1.07 will be the other cutoff. As of now I am trying to get into the top 6 in every draft to be safe, and if possible a top 3-4 pick as well.

 

[broncofan13000]

Rumor is that Slaton is not coming out:

SLATON STAYING AT WVU

West Virginia running back Steve Slaton will forgo the 2008 NFL draft and return to school for his senior season, the Daily Athenaeum is reporting.

The news comes as a bit of a surprise, not so much because Slaton was a sure thing to be a high NFL draft pick, but because with running back Noel Devine on the roster, Slaton might have a tough time keeping the starting job in 2008.

Slaton's 2007 season was his worst year as a Mountaineer, and he may feel that he wants to prove something in his senior year. Or he may feel that WVU's new coach, Bill Stewart, is a guy he wants to come back to play for.

Even if Slaton gets fewer carries as a senior because Devine gets an increased share of the workload, it's good news for West Virginia -- no team in the country will have a better 1-2 running back punch.

slaton staying

 

[el centro]

Rookie drafts are my favourite part about FF. I won the superbowl in one of my leagues last year, but the whole day was more stress then enjoyment, and winning was more of a relief feeling than anything else. Im just super excited for the rookie draft every single year

Ditto that... except the winning the Super Bowl thing - lost 2nd year in a row!

 

[el centro]

RBs seem to rule most Rookie Drafts, and this year seems to be LOADED with top-talent @ the position. My question - which teams do you see as Definately needing RB help & possibly needing help? Here's my 2-cents:

Definately (in no particular order):

1. Seattle - SA is done!

2. Cleveland - Even if they re-sign Jamal, his wheels aren't getting any younger & Cleveland's backups weren't so steller this season.

3. Pittsburgh - with a history of pound, pound, pound - they need someone to pair-up with FWP.

4. Houston - I guess if we were doing this in order - they'd clearly be #1!!!!

5. Chicago - Again!

6. Carolina - Everywhere I read -they're saying Foster's out, and DeWill can't carry the rock 20+ carries. Personally, I'd like to see DW do some work...

7. New Orleans - Reggie can't be the sole guy there, and Deuce has played 16 ... what - twice?

Possibly:

1. NYJ - I want to put them in the "Definately"category, but after reading other posts in other threads - I believe their issues is O-Line.

2. NEP - not so sure Maroney can stay healthy, and although the LB's are in desperate need of youth - it's hard to imagine BB passing on McF if he's there.

3. Philly - how many years are we going to wait till they find someone to give a breather to Westy.

4. Dallas - Both backs are FAs, and although they'll likely re-sign Barber - you never now!

5. Detroit - KJ still hasn't been the picture of health.

6. Tampa - Caddie can't stay healthy at all, and Ernest doesn't have the build to take it all himself. Granted - they could play out another year with his as their combo.

7. Atlanta - Dunn done? Norwood - carry the load?

8. Arizona - Edge is aging, and the 2 youngsters there haven't contributed much.

 

[cpstorm]

 

[JAA]

Current word out of WVU Student Newspaper is Slaton is staying

 

[Erierd]

 

[KarmaPolice]

RBs seem to rule most Rookie Drafts, and this year seems to be LOADED with top-talent @ the position. My question - which teams do you see as Definately needing RB help & possibly needing help? Here's my 2-cents:

Definately (in no particular order):

1. Seattle - SA is done!

2. Cleveland - Even if they re-sign Jamal, his wheels aren't getting any younger & Cleveland's backups weren't so steller this season.

3. Pittsburgh - with a history of pound, pound, pound - they need someone to pair-up with FWP.

4. Houston - I guess if we were doing this in order - they'd clearly be #1!!!!

5. Chicago - Again!

6. Carolina - Everywhere I read -they're saying Foster's out, and DeWill can't carry the rock 20+ carries. Personally, I'd like to see DW do some work...

7. New Orleans - Reggie can't be the sole guy there, and Deuce has played 16 ... what - twice?

Possibly:

1. NYJ - I want to put them in the "Definately"category, but after reading other posts in other threads - I believe their issues is O-Line.

2. NEP - not so sure Maroney can stay healthy, and although the LB's are in desperate need of youth - it's hard to imagine BB passing on McF if he's there.

3. Philly - how many years are we going to wait till they find someone to give a breather to Westy.

4. Dallas - Both backs are FAs, and although they'll likely re-sign Barber - you never now!

5. Detroit - KJ still hasn't been the picture of health.

6. Tampa - Caddie can't stay healthy at all, and Ernest doesn't have the build to take it all himself. Granted - they could play out another year with his as their combo.

7. Atlanta - Dunn done? Norwood - carry the load?

8. Arizona - Edge is aging, and the 2 youngsters there haven't contributed much.

The 5 highlighted are the teams that I would be watching the most as far as what they do in the draft. I feel that all 5 are young, up and coming offenses (if Atl gets a QB) and a RB taken early would be a featured part of the offense. Other teams/situations would be good, but I think you'd have to wait a bit longer for your rookie pick to pan out.ETA: Seattle would be another to keep your eye on.

 

[Trade Master]

I agree. . .especially with HOU, CLE and the NYJs. The Jets have some young studs on that O-line, and I think they will start to "gel" more next year into a dominant O-line. If HOU drafts a RB on day 1, that tells you how confident they are in Walker. I feel Norwood will be the feature back in ATL and they will draft a QB or focus on the O-line. DAL is the wildcard here, as there is a lot of talk about Jones having major man-love for D-Mac, and could use his 2 first round picks to move up and get him. That would almost guarantee the leaving on Julius Jones and would seriously impact the value of MBIII (assuming he stays in Dallas), as well as D-Mac, if MBIII stays.

 

[Trade Master]

Just saw Ray Rice declared for the NFL draft.

 

[ta2d4life]

What's the word on J Stewart? The anticipation is killing me.

 

[FTRWRTR]

I feel Norwood will be the feature back in ATL and they will draft a QB or focus on the O-line. if MBIII stays.

As much as I love norwood and despite the fact that I own him in both of my dynasty leagues I would be surprised if atlanta made him their featured rb. He can't stay healthy with even a limited role, no way he could handle 250 -300 carries. For those ppl who say atlanta needs a qb take a closer look at chris redman, in his 5 starts he passed for nearly 1,100 yards and 10TDs. Now their schedule then was fairly easy and he will be 30 next year but qb is far from an immediate need.

What's the word on J Stewart? The anticipation is killing me.

Dmac, Stewart, and Jones have yet to declare but IMO it's a sure thing that dmac and stewart come out, I'm anxious to see what jones does

 

[Trade Master]

I feel Norwood will be the feature back in ATL and they will draft a QB or focus on the O-line. if MBIII stays.

As much as I love norwood and despite the fact that I own him in both of my dynasty leagues I would be surprised if atlanta made him their featured rb. He can't stay healthy with even a limited role, no way he could handle 250 -300 carries. For those ppl who say atlanta needs a qb take a closer look at chris redman, in his 5 starts he passed for nearly 1,100 yards and 10TDs. Now their schedule then was fairly easy and he will be 30 next year but qb is far from an immediate need.

What's the word on J Stewart? The anticipation is killing me.

Dmac, Stewart, and Jones have yet to declare but IMO it's a sure thing that dmac and stewart come out, I'm anxious to see what jones does

I like Redman and feel they should stick with him. I'm just not sure their 100% sold on him.

 

[comfortably numb]

.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

I feel Norwood will be the feature back in ATL and they will draft a QB or focus on the O-line. if MBIII stays.

As much as I love norwood and despite the fact that I own him in both of my dynasty leagues I would be surprised if atlanta made him their featured rb. He can't stay healthy with even a limited role, no way he could handle 250 -300 carries. For those ppl who say atlanta needs a qb take a closer look at chris redman, in his 5 starts he passed for nearly 1,100 yards and 10TDs. Now their schedule then was fairly easy and he will be 30 next year but qb is far from an immediate need.

What's the word on J Stewart? The anticipation is killing me.

Dmac, Stewart, and Jones have yet to declare but IMO it's a sure thing that dmac and stewart come out, I'm anxious to see what jones does

I like Redman and feel they should stick with him. I'm just not sure their 100% sold on him.

how can anyone be sold on Redman? THe guy is not an NFL QB

 

[FUBAR]

I feel Norwood will be the feature back in ATL and they will draft a QB or focus on the O-line. if MBIII stays.

As much as I love norwood and despite the fact that I own him in both of my dynasty leagues I would be surprised if atlanta made him their featured rb. He can't stay healthy with even a limited role, no way he could handle 250 -300 carries. For those ppl who say atlanta needs a qb take a closer look at chris redman, in his 5 starts he passed for nearly 1,100 yards and 10TDs. Now their schedule then was fairly easy and he will be 30 next year but qb is far from an immediate need.

What's the word on J Stewart? The anticipation is killing me.

Dmac, Stewart, and Jones have yet to declare but IMO it's a sure thing that dmac and stewart come out, I'm anxious to see what jones does

I like Redman and feel they should stick with him. I'm just not sure their 100% sold on him.

He did alright, but you can't possibly think Redman will bring your team to the playoffs. He's no Todd Collins.The only tough defense he played against (except Seattle, but that was week 17) is Tampa Bay. Check how he did that game, if you're content with that, don't draft a QB. game logs