2009 Rookie Draft Picks (2 Viewers)

[Sigmund Bloom]

This has been the order of the developmental picks in BB3 so far:1. Chris Wells2. Knowshon Moreno 3. Michael Crabtree4. Lesean McCoy5. Demarco Murray6. CJ Spiller7. Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland8. Stafon Johnson, RB, USC9. Keiland Williams, RB, LSU10. Javon Ringer RB MSU11.12.13.14.

11. Jeremy Maclin WR/KR Missou

 

[EBF]

I'll have a lot more to say about these guys a couple weeks from now.

hey EBF, thanks for all the great posts!Would you be willing to give us a top10 for each class year? And maybe a top 50 in high school? Thats how I got ADP and Devine. I had to jump out a few years to find the blue chippers. My leagues gobble up all the talent even at the high school senior level. Mcguffie Scott and pryor have been rostered for 18 months already. Thanks again.

I'm busy with vacation. I'll be back tomorrow afternoon and I'll have some thoughts.

 

[broncofan13000]

BB3's Developmental Draft:

1. Chris Wells

2. Knowshon Moreno

3. Michael Crabtree

4. Lesean McCoy

5. Demarco Murray

6. CJ Spiller

7. Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland

8. Stafon Johnson, RB, USC

9. Keiland Williams, RB, LSU

10. Javon Ringer RB MSU

11. Jeremy Maclin - WR Missouri

12. Jarett Dillard - WR Rice

13. Lagarette Blount, RB Oregon

14. Tim Tebow, QB Florida

 

[EBF]

Took a chance on Dillard there. He's a shot in the dark, but his upside is huge. He's a TD monster. In some respects, the closest thing I've seen to Randy Moss since Randy Moss. I love the way he goes up and snatches the ball. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the 2009 draft.

 

[EBF]

Some Dillard clips here:

 

[coolnerd]

Took a chance on Dillard there. He's a shot in the dark, but his upside is huge. He's a TD monster. In some respects, the closest thing I've seen to Randy Moss since Randy Moss. I love the way he goes up and snatches the ball. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the 2009 draft.

You probably need to clarify in terms of his ability to score TDs at the college level. However, he is not expected to show freaky measurables as he probably will be about Marvin Harrison size and is not consider to have dynamic speed or strength. As you said though, maybe one of the most interesting guys to follow for the 2009 draft season.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Took a chance on Dillard there. He's a shot in the dark, but his upside is huge. He's a TD monster. In some respects, the closest thing I've seen to Randy Moss since Randy Moss. I love the way he goes up and snatches the ball. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the 2009 draft.

You probably need to clarify in terms of his ability to score TDs at the college level. However, he is not expected to show freaky measurables as he probably will be about Marvin Harrison size and is not consider to have dynamic speed or strength. As you said though, maybe one of the most interesting guys to follow for the 2009 draft season.

He needs to put some meat on those bones. I doubt he weighs more than 165 dripping wet.

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

BB3's Developmental Draft:

1. Chris Wells

2. Knowshon Moreno

3. Michael Crabtree

4. Lesean McCoy

5. Demarco Murray

6. CJ Spiller

7. Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland

8. Stafon Johnson, RB, USC

9. Keiland Williams, RB, LSU

10. Javon Ringer RB MSU

11. Jeremy Maclin - WR Missouri

12. Jarett Dillard - WR Rice

13. Lagarette Blount, RB Oregon

14. Tim Tebow, QB Florida

Here's my favorite RB of the class if he proves healthy. Eye popping talent and the frame to add 10 pounds. Read recently he's already up in the 210 range.

 

[EBF]

Took a chance on Dillard there. He's a shot in the dark, but his upside is huge. He's a TD monster. In some respects, the closest thing I've seen to Randy Moss since Randy Moss. I love the way he goes up and snatches the ball. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the 2009 draft.

You probably need to clarify in terms of his ability to score TDs at the college level. However, he is not expected to show freaky measurables as he probably will be about Marvin Harrison size and is not consider to have dynamic speed or strength. As you said though, maybe one of the most interesting guys to follow for the 2009 draft season.

He needs to put some meat on those bones. I doubt he weighs more than 165 dripping wet.

He's a bit light, but he has pretty thick thighs. http://www.ricefootball.net/07uho81catchfortd468.jpg

http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2006/1219/...dillard_195.jpg

I think he resembles Marvin Harrison and Santonio Holmes in terms of body type. He's slight, but strong. What I really love is the production and the football skills. He's caught 35 TD passes in his last 25 games. That's just obscene. He's like a human pogo stick. Very springy with long arms and great ball skills to snatch the high pass. Some good Dillard catches:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1160409q92jGKZ...2058&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583749fD223mH...2058&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1584724Dhcx6zf...2058&rank=5

Watch those clips and tell me you don't see a little bit of Randy Moss in there. Dillard is effortless catching the ball and getting his feet down. You can't teach that. I won't go so far as guaranteeing NFL stardom, but I think he's an intriguing prospect. I gambled on him over Brian Robiskie and Aaron Kelly because I really think he has a bit more "freak" potential. It will definitely be fun to track his progress either way.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Took a chance on Dillard there. He's a shot in the dark, but his upside is huge. He's a TD monster. In some respects, the closest thing I've seen to Randy Moss since Randy Moss. I love the way he goes up and snatches the ball. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the 2009 draft.

You probably need to clarify in terms of his ability to score TDs at the college level. However, he is not expected to show freaky measurables as he probably will be about Marvin Harrison size and is not consider to have dynamic speed or strength. As you said though, maybe one of the most interesting guys to follow for the 2009 draft season.

He needs to put some meat on those bones. I doubt he weighs more than 165 dripping wet.

He's a bit light, but he has pretty thick thighs. http://www.ricefootball.net/07uho81catchfortd468.jpg

http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2006/1219/...dillard_195.jpg

I think he resembles Marvin Harrison and Santonio Holmes in terms of body type. He's slight, but strong. What I really love is the production and the football skills. He's caught 35 TD passes in his last 25 games. That's just obscene. He's like a human pogo stick. Very springy with long arms and great ball skills to snatch the high pass. Some good Dillard catches:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1160409q92jGKZ...2058&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583749fD223mH...2058&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1584724Dhcx6zf...2058&rank=5

Watch those clips and tell me you don't see a little bit of Randy Moss in there. Dillard is effortless catching the ball and getting his feet down. You can't teach that. I won't go so far as guaranteeing NFL stardom, but I think he's an intriguing prospect. I gambled on him over Brian Robiskie and Aaron Kelly because I really think he has a bit more "freak" potential. It will definitely be fun to track his progress either way.

I agree that he plays like Moss, and he will be fun to track, but he's not as big as Moss or as fast (few are as fast), and he will get pinballed in traffic. Hazelton or Lafell have more upside, but they're definitely not as natural as Dillard going up and getting the ball.

 

[EBF]

Some thoughts on the 2009 RB's:

Chris Wells - Has the size and production you look for. What he lacks is quickness, burst, and all-around explosiveness. I think he will be a starter in the NFL, but he might be closer to Anthony Thomas than Adrian Peterson. I just don't see the top shelf physical gifts of a high first round pick. He isn't explosive in the same way that LT/ADP/McFadden/Bush were.

Knowshon Moreno - Good back who does a lot of things well. I like his burst, instincts, power, and tenacity. He has a pretty good build and is probably my early favorite from this class. That said, he looks more like a mid-late first round talent than a true difference maker. Kind of a cross between Laurence Maroney and Marshawn Lynch.

DeMarco Murray - Dynamic speed and big play skills. Scores pretty high on the "wow" factor. The big question with Murray is he can he be an everydown guy in the NFL? He looks and runs a bit light. He seems to have decent balance, but I think leg drive is one of the most important qualities in a pro back and I'm not sure how high Murray scores on that metric. My attitude right now is that he's a 2nd-3rd round talent who could rise over the next 12 months.

CJ Spiller - Sick jukes and speed. If you want to talk strictly about upside and star potential, I think Spiller belongs in the conversation. But there are a lot of question marks. Power? Instincts? Size? His running style involves a lot of starting-and-stopping. I'm not sure how well that will translate to the pro game. Overall, an enigma. I'm intrigued by the potential.

James Davis - Good all-around back, but he doesn't have any special qualities. Power, quickness, speed, and size are all ordinary. A 2nd-4th round pick who is probably best suited to a backup role at the pro level.

LeSean McCoy - Excellent burst and instincts. Big-time production on a weak offensive football team. Big time recruit out of high school. A lot of onlookers are very high on his potential. I've read that he definitely has his eyes on the 2009 draft despite only being a second year college player. My main concern here is a lack of bulk and power. McCoy is a bit like Reggie Bush. He'll dazzle you with his moves, but he might not have the leg drive you look for in a workhorse.

Keiland Williams - First round tools. Good size and speed. Adequate quicks. Doesn't always run hard, but has power. Good production when he's gotten opportunities and was a big time recruit out of high school. I like his skills. I'm not so sure about his instincts and intangibles. He sometimes runs soft and indecisive. A bit of an underachiever, but LSU has a history of neglecting their talent. Williams should be a top 100 pick and could vault all the way into the top 30 with a big year or a strong postseason.

Stafon Johnson - Johnson was a five star recruit out of high school and has beaten out a slew out elite prospects for playing time. He'll play the LenDale White role for USC this year and should grow into a pretty solid NFL prospect. He's a strong runner with quick feet for a big back. Good instincts and toughness. Deceptive speed, but not a home run hitter and not truly explosive. Lacks a second gear. Might not have the burst of a pro starter. Combine will go a long way towards determining whether or not he's a franchise back at the next level. His playing style should translate well to the pro game if his physical gifts are up to par.

Tough to sort these guys out right now. We'll know a lot more after their 2008 seasons and their combines. My early tiered rankings:

1. Knowshon Moreno

2. Chris Wells

3. LeSean McCoy

4. Stafon Johnson

5. Keiland Williams

6. CJ Spiller

7. DeMarco Murray

8. James Davis

Other names to consider: PJ Hill, Tyrell Sutton, Javon Ringer, Arian Foster

 

[EBF]

Some Stafon Johnson runs:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583647DtAJEMC...3477&rank=1

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v11990827Ecp8hj...3477&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1239334S77Ant4...3477&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1310105aPGfsA8...3477&rank=4

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1420816JS72TXF...3477&rank=5

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1486764fzdh5m6...3477&rank=6

He's a different beast from the other backs in the class. He's not as flashy, but he's not a stiff either. He he has a bigger frame and more of a no-nonsense running style. I think his speed is deceptive though. He doesn't look like a burner until you see him crank a run like this:

Frankly, I could see him being anywhere from a 1st-late round pick when he eventually enters the draft. I rolled the dice on him because I saw some things I liked and I knew I could get him a lot cheaper than the high profile 2009 guys.

 

[Brewzers]

Some Stafon Johnson runs:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583647DtAJEMC...3477&rank=1

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v11990827Ecp8hj...3477&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1239334S77Ant4...3477&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1310105aPGfsA8...3477&rank=4

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1420816JS72TXF...3477&rank=5

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1486764fzdh5m6...3477&rank=6

He's a different beast from the other backs in the class. He's not as flashy, but he's not a stiff either. He he has a bigger frame and more of a no-nonsense running style. I think his speed is deceptive though. He doesn't look like a burner until you see him crank a run like this:

Thanks for these! I also drafted Stafon as my college player in one league. He seems to run upright, but I like how he leans forward at contact. I look forward to watching him this year.

 

[EBF]

Some Stafon Johnson runs:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583647DtAJEMC...3477&rank=1

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v11990827Ecp8hj...3477&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1239334S77Ant4...3477&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1310105aPGfsA8...3477&rank=4

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1420816JS72TXF...3477&rank=5

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1486764fzdh5m6...3477&rank=6

He's a different beast from the other backs in the class. He's not as flashy, but he's not a stiff either. He he has a bigger frame and more of a no-nonsense running style. I think his speed is deceptive though. He doesn't look like a burner until you see him crank a run like this:

Yea, he does run a little upright, especially after his initial burst through the line. He's a big dude. A power back. Almost built more like Keith Rivers than LaDainian Tomlinson. But I think it's clear from these clips and others that he's not a stiff. The nimble feet are well on display in a few of those runs. It's not Reggie Bush type stuff, but it's not plodder territory either. The last run I linked to is the most exciting of the bunch. Here you see a complete arsenal of RB skills: burst through the hole, smooth change of direction, sustained speed, and the ability to keep his feet and make a move after a missed tackle. Pretty nice stuff there. The lower camera angle really gives you a good feel for his speed.

 

[Brewzers]

Some Stafon Johnson runs:

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1583647DtAJEMC...3477&rank=1

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v11990827Ecp8hj...3477&rank=2

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1239334S77Ant4...3477&rank=3

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1310105aPGfsA8...3477&rank=4

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1420816JS72TXF...3477&rank=5

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1486764fzdh5m6...3477&rank=6

He's a different beast from the other backs in the class. He's not as flashy, but he's not a stiff either. He he has a bigger frame and more of a no-nonsense running style. I think his speed is deceptive though. He doesn't look like a burner until you see him crank a run like this:

Yep, good speed, vision and balance. I really liked the 1 yd TD run. Initial contact was at the line, and Stafon just powered through the DT with leg drive (of course he had a blocker that helped some, but you could feel the power). I'm feeling hopeful with this guy.

 

[spec1alk]

 

[ConstruxBoy]

Some thoughts on the 2009 RB's:

Chris Wells - Has the size and production you look for. What he lacks is quickness, burst, and all-around explosiveness. I think he will be a starter in the NFL, but he might be closer to Anthony Thomas than Adrian Peterson. I just don't see the top shelf physical gifts of a high first round pick. He isn't explosive in the same way that LT/ADP/McFadden/Bush were.

Knowshon Moreno - Good back who does a lot of things well. I like his burst, instincts, power, and tenacity. He has a pretty good build and is probably my early favorite from this class. That said, he looks more like a mid-late first round talent than a true difference maker. Kind of a cross between Laurence Maroney and Marshawn Lynch.

DeMarco Murray - Dynamic speed and big play skills. Scores pretty high on the "wow" factor. The big question with Murray is he can he be an everydown guy in the NFL? He looks and runs a bit light. He seems to have decent balance, but I think leg drive is one of the most important qualities in a pro back and I'm not sure how high Murray scores on that metric. My attitude right now is that he's a 2nd-3rd round talent who could rise over the next 12 months.

CJ Spiller - Sick jukes and speed. If you want to talk strictly about upside and star potential, I think Spiller belongs in the conversation. But there are a lot of question marks. Power? Instincts? Size? His running style involves a lot of starting-and-stopping. I'm not sure how well that will translate to the pro game. Overall, an enigma. I'm intrigued by the potential.

James Davis - Good all-around back, but he doesn't have any special qualities. Power, quickness, speed, and size are all ordinary. A 2nd-4th round pick who is probably best suited to a backup role at the pro level.

LeSean McCoy - Excellent burst and instincts. Big-time production on a weak offensive football team. Big time recruit out of high school. A lot of onlookers are very high on his potential. I've read that he definitely has his eyes on the 2009 draft despite only being a second year college player. My main concern here is a lack of bulk and power. McCoy is a bit like Reggie Bush. He'll dazzle you with his moves, but he might not have the leg drive you look for in a workhorse.

Keiland Williams - First round tools. Good size and speed. Adequate quicks. Doesn't always run hard, but has power. Good production when he's gotten opportunities and was a big time recruit out of high school. I like his skills. I'm not so sure about his instincts and intangibles. He sometimes runs soft and indecisive. A bit of an underachiever, but LSU has a history of neglecting their talent. Williams should be a top 100 pick and could vault all the way into the top 30 with a big year or a strong postseason.

Stafon Johnson - Johnson was a five star recruit out of high school and has beaten out a slew out elite prospects for playing time. He'll play the LenDale White role for USC this year and should grow into a pretty solid NFL prospect. He's a strong runner with quick feet for a big back. Good instincts and toughness. Deceptive speed, but not a home run hitter and not truly explosive. Lacks a second gear. Might not have the burst of a pro starter. Combine will go a long way towards determining whether or not he's a franchise back at the next level. His playing style should translate well to the pro game if his physical gifts are up to par.

Tough to sort these guys out right now. We'll know a lot more after their 2008 seasons and their combines. My early tiered rankings:

1. Knowshon Moreno

2. Chris Wells

3. LeSean McCoy

4. Stafon Johnson

5. Keiland Williams

6. CJ Spiller

7. DeMarco Murray

8. James Davis

Other names to consider: PJ Hill, Tyrell Sutton, Javon Ringer, Arian Foster

Nice list as always. I'd probably put McCoy in the first tier. I think Wells is a little overrated to be honest. I'd also probably put Murray 2nd in that tier behind Johnson. I understand the "run light" comment a bit, but I think he has more leg drive than you may think. Needs to get stronger though.

 

[jurb26]

Some thoughts on the 2009 RB's:

Chris Wells - Has the size and production you look for. What he lacks is quickness, burst, and all-around explosiveness. I think he will be a starter in the NFL, but he might be closer to Anthony Thomas than Adrian Peterson. I just don't see the top shelf physical gifts of a high first round pick. He isn't explosive in the same way that LT/ADP/McFadden/Bush were.

Knowshon Moreno - Good back who does a lot of things well. I like his burst, instincts, power, and tenacity. He has a pretty good build and is probably my early favorite from this class. That said, he looks more like a mid-late first round talent than a true difference maker. Kind of a cross between Laurence Maroney and Marshawn Lynch.

DeMarco Murray - Dynamic speed and big play skills. Scores pretty high on the "wow" factor. The big question with Murray is he can he be an everydown guy in the NFL? He looks and runs a bit light. He seems to have decent balance, but I think leg drive is one of the most important qualities in a pro back and I'm not sure how high Murray scores on that metric. My attitude right now is that he's a 2nd-3rd round talent who could rise over the next 12 months.

CJ Spiller - Sick jukes and speed. If you want to talk strictly about upside and star potential, I think Spiller belongs in the conversation. But there are a lot of question marks. Power? Instincts? Size? His running style involves a lot of starting-and-stopping. I'm not sure how well that will translate to the pro game. Overall, an enigma. I'm intrigued by the potential.

James Davis - Good all-around back, but he doesn't have any special qualities. Power, quickness, speed, and size are all ordinary. A 2nd-4th round pick who is probably best suited to a backup role at the pro level.

LeSean McCoy - Excellent burst and instincts. Big-time production on a weak offensive football team. Big time recruit out of high school. A lot of onlookers are very high on his potential. I've read that he definitely has his eyes on the 2009 draft despite only being a second year college player. My main concern here is a lack of bulk and power. McCoy is a bit like Reggie Bush. He'll dazzle you with his moves, but he might not have the leg drive you look for in a workhorse.

Keiland Williams - First round tools. Good size and speed. Adequate quicks. Doesn't always run hard, but has power. Good production when he's gotten opportunities and was a big time recruit out of high school. I like his skills. I'm not so sure about his instincts and intangibles. He sometimes runs soft and indecisive. A bit of an underachiever, but LSU has a history of neglecting their talent. Williams should be a top 100 pick and could vault all the way into the top 30 with a big year or a strong postseason.

Stafon Johnson - Johnson was a five star recruit out of high school and has beaten out a slew out elite prospects for playing time. He'll play the LenDale White role for USC this year and should grow into a pretty solid NFL prospect. He's a strong runner with quick feet for a big back. Good instincts and toughness. Deceptive speed, but not a home run hitter and not truly explosive. Lacks a second gear. Might not have the burst of a pro starter. Combine will go a long way towards determining whether or not he's a franchise back at the next level. His playing style should translate well to the pro game if his physical gifts are up to par.

Tough to sort these guys out right now. We'll know a lot more after their 2008 seasons and their combines. My early tiered rankings:

1. Knowshon Moreno

2. Chris Wells

3. LeSean McCoy

4. Stafon Johnson

5. Keiland Williams

6. CJ Spiller

7. DeMarco Murray

8. James Davis

Other names to consider: PJ Hill, Tyrell Sutton, Javon Ringer, Arian Foster

Nice list as always. I'd probably put McCoy in the first tier. I think Wells is a little overrated to be honest. I'd also probably put Murray 2nd in that tier behind Johnson. I understand the "run light" comment a bit, but I think he has more leg drive than you may think. Needs to get stronger though.

I would rank them as such:1. Moreno

2a. McCoy

2b. Murray

4. Wells

5. Williams

6. Spiller

7. Davis

8. Johnson

 

[Raagsreth]

I'd be surprised if James Davis did anything in the NFL unless it's in a ZBS. If he's a first rounder next year, god help us fantasy owners.

 

[broncofan13000]

Some thoughts on the 2009 RB's:

Chris Wells - Has the size and production you look for. What he lacks is quickness, burst, and all-around explosiveness. I think he will be a starter in the NFL, but he might be closer to Anthony Thomas than Adrian Peterson. I just don't see the top shelf physical gifts of a high first round pick. He isn't explosive in the same way that LT/ADP/McFadden/Bush were.

Knowshon Moreno - Good back who does a lot of things well. I like his burst, instincts, power, and tenacity. He has a pretty good build and is probably my early favorite from this class. That said, he looks more like a mid-late first round talent than a true difference maker. Kind of a cross between Laurence Maroney and Marshawn Lynch.

DeMarco Murray - Dynamic speed and big play skills. Scores pretty high on the "wow" factor. The big question with Murray is he can he be an everydown guy in the NFL? He looks and runs a bit light. He seems to have decent balance, but I think leg drive is one of the most important qualities in a pro back and I'm not sure how high Murray scores on that metric. My attitude right now is that he's a 2nd-3rd round talent who could rise over the next 12 months.

CJ Spiller - Sick jukes and speed. If you want to talk strictly about upside and star potential, I think Spiller belongs in the conversation. But there are a lot of question marks. Power? Instincts? Size? His running style involves a lot of starting-and-stopping. I'm not sure how well that will translate to the pro game. Overall, an enigma. I'm intrigued by the potential.

James Davis - Good all-around back, but he doesn't have any special qualities. Power, quickness, speed, and size are all ordinary. A 2nd-4th round pick who is probably best suited to a backup role at the pro level.

LeSean McCoy - Excellent burst and instincts. Big-time production on a weak offensive football team. Big time recruit out of high school. A lot of onlookers are very high on his potential. I've read that he definitely has his eyes on the 2009 draft despite only being a second year college player. My main concern here is a lack of bulk and power. McCoy is a bit like Reggie Bush. He'll dazzle you with his moves, but he might not have the leg drive you look for in a workhorse.

Keiland Williams - First round tools. Good size and speed. Adequate quicks. Doesn't always run hard, but has power. Good production when he's gotten opportunities and was a big time recruit out of high school. I like his skills. I'm not so sure about his instincts and intangibles. He sometimes runs soft and indecisive. A bit of an underachiever, but LSU has a history of neglecting their talent. Williams should be a top 100 pick and could vault all the way into the top 30 with a big year or a strong postseason.

Stafon Johnson - Johnson was a five star recruit out of high school and has beaten out a slew out elite prospects for playing time. He'll play the LenDale White role for USC this year and should grow into a pretty solid NFL prospect. He's a strong runner with quick feet for a big back. Good instincts and toughness. Deceptive speed, but not a home run hitter and not truly explosive. Lacks a second gear. Might not have the burst of a pro starter. Combine will go a long way towards determining whether or not he's a franchise back at the next level. His playing style should translate well to the pro game if his physical gifts are up to par.

Tough to sort these guys out right now. We'll know a lot more after their 2008 seasons and their combines. My early tiered rankings:

1. Knowshon Moreno

2. Chris Wells

3. LeSean McCoy

4. Stafon Johnson

5. Keiland Williams

6. CJ Spiller

7. DeMarco Murray

8. James Davis

Other names to consider: PJ Hill, Tyrell Sutton, Javon Ringer, Arian Foster

Nice list as always. I'd probably put McCoy in the first tier. I think Wells is a little overrated to be honest. I'd also probably put Murray 2nd in that tier behind Johnson. I understand the "run light" comment a bit, but I think he has more leg drive than you may think. Needs to get stronger though.

I would rank them as such:1. Moreno

2a. McCoy

2b. Murray

4. Wells

5. Williams

6. Spiller

7. Davis

8. Johnson

drafted all three of them

 

[Buckeyedawgs]

Here is a article in the Columbus Dispatch that says exactly what I tried to tell you guys. CHRIS WELLS IS NOT COMEING OUT NEXT YEAR! You guys have him on every list for 4 pages here! haha Yes it is a possibillity I suppose but you guys are acting like it's a given. Some kids realize education is more important then $$$$$. I copied instead of linked because you have to have a subscription to view it I think.

Buckeyes could be popular in '09 draft

At least five seniors are candidates to be picked in first round

Sunday, May 4, 2008 3:50 AM

By Tim May

THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Buckeyes and the NFL draft

After a lull, the 2009 NFL draft could be flooded by Buckeyes:

Potential first-rounders:

James Laurinaitis (LB)

Malcolm Jenkins (CB)

Alex Boone (OT)

Brian Robiskie (WR)

Marcus Freeman (LB)

Seniors who could go in later rounds:

Todd Boeckman (QB)

Steve Rehring (G)

Rory Nicol (TE)

Nader Abdallah (DT)

Curtis Terry (LB/FB)

Maurice Wells (RB)

Jamario O'Neal (S)

Ryan Pretorius (K)

A.J. Trapasso (P)

Juniors who will gain serious interest if they leave early:

Chris "Beanie" Wells (RB)

Brian Hartline (WR)

Lawrence Wilson (DE)

Doug Worthington (DT)

Kurt Coleman (S)

Buckeyes taken in the past 10 NFL drafts:

2008 -- three

2007 -- eight

2006 -- nine

2005 -- three

2004 -- 14

2003 -- five

2002 -- eight

2001 -- six

2000 -- six

1999 -- eight

The big-wave warning has been posted a year in advance. After making little more than a ripple in last weekend's NFL draft, Ohio State is expected to send a tsunami toward the league in 2009.

"I would say that is a correct statement," Gil Brandt said.

Brandt, a draft analyst for NFL.com, said the Buckeyes could have more players taken in the first round next year than the three who were picked in all seven rounds this year.

Butkus Award-winning linebacker James Laurinaitis, cornerback Malcolm Jenkins, linebacker Marcus Freeman, offensive tackle Alex Boone and receiver Brian Robiskie could have left early this year. If they had, they probably wouldn't have gone as high as Vernon Gholston, a defensive end at Ohio State who went sixth overall to the New York Jets, but they likely would have been picked in the first two rounds.

Boone said they heard the buzz. Did it cause second thoughts?

"That I should have gone? Never," Boone said. "Because if I lived in regret, I'd be an unhappy person right now. I am happy about my decision. I came back for a reason, and we are building on that reason."

He and the other four know that as unhappily as last season ended, with a second straight loss in the national championship game, their return means the Buckeyes will have 18 starters back for another run.

"Obviously, to come back and have an opportunity to go to that game would be another blessing," Robiskie said. "We just keep working to try to get there."

No matter what happens, in about 11 months, Ohio State's pre-draft workout day is bound to draw a wall-to-wall crowd of NFL coaches and scouts.

"Just off the top of my head, I would say Laurinaitis and Jenkins would have a chance to be top-10 picks, if they perform to the level they have in the past," Brandt said. "I would say Boone, Robiskie and Freeman have the chance to be first-round picks if they play like I think they can play."

Running back Chris "Beanie" Wells is coming off the best rushing season (1,609 yards) for a sophomore in OSU history. Even though he said a month ago that the 2008 season "is not going to be my last year", many analysts expect him to parlay a possible sterling junior season into a run to the NFL. Some have projected him to be the first Buckeyes player taken if he does.

Wells could be part of the crest of an OSU wave that could keep rolling through the later rounds, much like the record 14 Buckeyes who were picked in 2004.

Quarterback Todd Boeckman, defensive tackle Nader Abdallah, offensive lineman Steve Rehring, tight end Rory Nicol and safety Jamario O'Neal are seniors who also will gain consideration, Brandt said.

"There aren't many quarterbacks next year," Brandt said. "That bodes well for (Boeckman)."

Of Abdallah, who blossomed in 2007, Brandt said, "Guys like that get drafted higher sometime than they really rank because everybody is looking for defensive linemen."

The OSU ranks could swell if several juniors such as Wells don't stick around. Working toward the next level helped keep the 15 days of spring drills and classroom time hopping, junior receiver Brian Hartline said.

"A lot of the guys see the NFL in their future, so they want to learn as much as possible from coach (Jim) Tressel and his staff," Hartline said.

Brandt's advice would be stay as long as possible.

"They do a great job at that school," Brandt said. "Not only do they get talented players, they develop them."

 

[noneother]

He can always come back to school, even Charles Barkley knew that..... the smart decision, the 'educated' decision, says:

Take what they give you, maximize your gauranteed money.

this isn't a borderline guy like Slaton, this is a dependable, well conditioned (sore ankled) All American RB...

not saying he'll do this, but honestly, to me, it is the best solution.

 

[Mike]

Here is a article in the Columbus Dispatch that says exactly what I tried to tell you guys. CHRIS WELLS IS NOT COMEING OUT NEXT YEAR!

What they say now != What they do then

 

[EBF]

I heard the same thing last year about McFadden, Rice, Slaton, and (insert prospect name here). When you're staring at top 15 money, the smart decision is to take it. Your body only has so many years of football and you can finish school later.

 

[Godfather of Soul]

Tebow is not coming out. The ONLY way I see that guy leaving is if UF wins teh NC. Trust me, as an avid UF fan, we know everything tebow

:m ancrush:

even when he does, he has a LONG way to go to be a pro qb.

release, accuracy, reads, etc

 

[EBF]

USC Spring 40 times:

RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41

RB Allen Bradford - 4.44

WR Vidal Hazelton - 4.53

 

[aposulli]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44WR Vidal Hazelton - 4.53

Any others?

 

[EBF]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44WR Vidal Hazelton - 4.53

Any others?

Rey Maualuga 4.76David Buehler 4.64Brian Cushing 4.55Marc Tyler 4.54Vidal Hazelton 4.53Will Harris 4.49Allen Bradford 4.44Damien Williams 4.43Stafon Johnson 4.41Ronald Johnson 4.36Taylor Mays 4.26Damian Williams and Ronald Johnson are WR prospects. Williams will be draft-eligible in 2009. Johnson in 2010. Allen Bradford is a RB. He should get some PT this year after playing well in spring ball. The USC backfield is a logjam right now though.Tyler is a redshirt freshman RB coming back from an ACL tear. He could be a factor in future seasons, but is unlikely to play much in 2008.Maualuga ran 4.5 last year, so there's some speculation he's injured and/or has put on weight. I'd expect him to run faster in workouts.

 

[jurb26]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44

Who cares about these 2, what about McKnight?

 

[EBF]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44

Who cares about these 2, what about McKnight?

McKnight is academically ineligible at the moment. People expect him to be back for the 2008 season.As for the "who cares?" comment, I think anyone who follows the 2009 draft should care. Johnson is likely be USC's starting RB and leading rusher in 2008. Most team observers think he's their best back. My guess is he might not enter the draft until 2010 though.Bradford will probably never be "the man" at USC, but he has a chance to step up and get drafted ala Chauncey Washington.

 

[jurb26]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44

Who cares about these 2, what about McKnight?

McKnight is academically ineligible at the moment. People expect him to be back for the 2008 season.As for the "who cares?" comment, I think anyone who follows the 2009 draft should care. Johnson is likely be USC's starting RB and leading rusher in 2008. Most team observers think he's their best back. My guess is he might not enter the draft until 2010 though.Bradford will probably never be "the man" at USC, but he has a chance to step up and get drafted ala Chauncey Washington.

Johnson will be a late 2nd round. McKnight very well could be a 1st if he pulls his head out of his.....

 

[EBF]

USC Spring 40 times:RB Stafon Johnson - 4.41RB Allen Bradford - 4.44

Who cares about these 2, what about McKnight?

McKnight is academically ineligible at the moment. People expect him to be back for the 2008 season.As for the "who cares?" comment, I think anyone who follows the 2009 draft should care. Johnson is likely be USC's starting RB and leading rusher in 2008. Most team observers think he's their best back. My guess is he might not enter the draft until 2010 though.Bradford will probably never be "the man" at USC, but he has a chance to step up and get drafted ala Chauncey Washington.

Johnson will be a late 2nd round. McKnight very well could be a 1st if he pulls his head out of his.....

We'll see. Johnson has a lot of talent and will probably rise up the charts this season.McKnight is like a lesser Reggie. Lots of sizzle. Maybe not a featured back in the NFL though. Those two are expected to play the LenDale/Reggie roles next season. There are a number of other NFL prospects competing for touches.

 

[gianmarco]

BB3's Developmental Draft: 1. Chris Wells2. Knowshon Moreno3. Michael Crabtree4. Lesean McCoy5. Demarco Murray6. CJ Spiller7. Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland8. Stafon Johnson, RB, USC9. Keiland Williams, RB, LSU10. Javon Ringer RB MSU11. Jeremy Maclin - WR Missouri12. Jarett Dillard - WR Rice13. Lagarette Blount, RB Oregon14. Tim Tebow, QB Florida

What kind of idiot would draft Tebow?

 

[jurb26]

BB3's Developmental Draft: 1. Chris Wells2. Knowshon Moreno3. Michael Crabtree4. Lesean McCoy5. Demarco Murray6. CJ Spiller7. Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland8. Stafon Johnson, RB, USC9. Keiland Williams, RB, LSU10. Javon Ringer RB MSU11. Jeremy Maclin - WR Missouri12. Jarett Dillard - WR Rice13. Lagarette Blount, RB Oregon14. Tim Tebow, QB Florida

What kind of idiot would draft Tebow?

Stafford is the obvious choice is you are going to go QB.

 

[EBF]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

 

[jurb26]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

Wow, you really don't know anything about Georgia at all huh. Stafford is pretty universally considered the best NFL QB yet you wouldn't even consider him???Cantwell should enter the discussion before Bradford IMO.

 

[comfortably numb]

.

 

[EBF]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

Wow, you really don't know anything about Georgia at all huh. Stafford is pretty universally considered the best NFL QB yet you wouldn't even consider him???

If I'm going to use a pick on a QB who's still playing in college, he'd better be a full-blown superstar because that's the only way I can justify taking the huge risk on a player who probably won't become useful until 3-4 years in the future. Stafford completed 55.7% of his passes last year at 7.25 YPA with 19 TD's and 10 INT's. Not bad, but it doesn't jump off the screen at you. In Sam Bradford's first season as a starter, he completed 69.5% of his passes at 9.15 YPA with 36 TD's and 8 INT's. And unlike Tim Tebow, he's not a gimmick. He's a 6'5" pro-style pocket passer. I think he's a more tempting option than any other QB in the NCAA as of today.If Bradford continues on this course he could be special. I don't see anything special about Stafford right now.

 

[jurb26]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

Wow, you really don't know anything about Georgia at all huh. Stafford is pretty universally considered the best NFL QB yet you wouldn't even consider him???

If I'm going to use a pick on a QB who's still playing in college, he'd better be a full-blown superstar because that's the only way I can justify taking the huge risk on a player who probably won't become useful until 3-4 years in the future. Stafford completed 55.7% of his passes last year at 7.25 YPA with 19 TD's and 10 INT's. Not bad, but it doesn't jump off the screen at you. In Sam Bradford's first season as a starter, he completed 69.5% of his passes at 9.15 YPA with 36 TD's and 8 INT's. And unlike Tim Tebow, he's not a gimmick. He's a 6'5" pro-style pocket passer. I think he's a more tempting option than any other QB in the NCAA as of today.If Bradford continues on this course he could be special. I don't see anything special about Stafford right now.

Given conversations we've had in the past I don't think you have really "seen" anything of Bradford other than the stat line. You are welcome to your opinion, but it is pretty much a universal thought that Stafford is the #1 QB prospect for 2009 if he chooses to come out. Some may rank Tebow higher, but as a true QB, Stafford is the guy.

 

[gianmarco]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

Wow, you really don't know anything about Georgia at all huh. Stafford is pretty universally considered the best NFL QB yet you wouldn't even consider him???Cantwell should enter the discussion before Bradford IMO.

Stafford is far from "pretty universally considered the best NFL QB". There are just as many sites with Tebow above him as there are with Stafford #1.

 

[jurb26]

Sam Bradford is the only QB I was considering, but it's too early in his career to take him. With another big year he will be considered the best QB in the NCAA.

Wow, you really don't know anything about Georgia at all huh. Stafford is pretty universally considered the best NFL QB yet you wouldn't even consider him???Cantwell should enter the discussion before Bradford IMO.

Stafford is far from "pretty universally considered the best NFL QB". There are just as many sites with Tebow above him as there are with Stafford #1.

Read above.

 

[jurb26]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

 

[gianmarco]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

 

[jurb26]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

 

[gianmarco]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

Aside from Tebow possibly not coming out next year, I don't know where you're getting your information from. Who said he won't be drafted as a traditional QB? Here are 2 sites from a cursory search:

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/to...ts-for-2009.cfm

http://walterfootball.com/draft2009QB.php

I've seen others. They have Tebow listed as the top 2009 QB prospect. I don't know what else to say. Again, I'm not arguing with you on Stafford vs. Tebow, but it is simply NOT universal that Stafford is the #1 2009 QB prospect.

 

[jurb26]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

Aside from Tebow possibly not coming out next year, I don't know where you're getting your information from. Who said he won't be drafted as a traditional QB? Here are 2 sites from a cursory search:

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/to...ts-for-2009.cfm

http://walterfootball.com/draft2009QB.php

I've seen others. They have Tebow listed as the top 2009 QB prospect. I don't know what else to say. Again, I'm not arguing with you on Stafford vs. Tebow, but it is simply NOT universal that Stafford is the #1 2009 QB prospect.

Your 1st link is not up to date. It is from March. Stafford is now ranked 1st in their May edition. Top 10 for this site. To be honest with you I would imagine most every site you see with Tebow ranked 1st is simply not updated. I could be wrong I suppose but it seems if I find a site with Tebow ranked 1st it is from March or prior.

 

[aposulli]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

Aside from Tebow possibly not coming out next year, I don't know where you're getting your information from. Who said he won't be drafted as a traditional QB? Here are 2 sites from a cursory search:

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/to...ts-for-2009.cfm

http://walterfootball.com/draft2009QB.php

I've seen others. They have Tebow listed as the top 2009 QB prospect. I don't know what else to say. Again, I'm not arguing with you on Stafford vs. Tebow, but it is simply NOT universal that Stafford is the #1 2009 QB prospect.

Some teams may not view Tebow as a traditional QB, so his draft stock is likely to be all over the board. I suppose what we can agree on is that if there were a draft today, Tebow and Stafford would be drafted close together, both near the top/middle of Round 1.The biggest question in the 2009 draft right now, assuming Tebow comes out, is where he should be drafted.

 

[jurb26]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

Aside from Tebow possibly not coming out next year, I don't know where you're getting your information from. Who said he won't be drafted as a traditional QB? Here are 2 sites from a cursory search:

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/to...ts-for-2009.cfm

http://walterfootball.com/draft2009QB.php

I've seen others. They have Tebow listed as the top 2009 QB prospect. I don't know what else to say. Again, I'm not arguing with you on Stafford vs. Tebow, but it is simply NOT universal that Stafford is the #1 2009 QB prospect.

Some teams may not view Tebow as a traditional QB, so his draft stock is likely to be all over the board. I suppose what we can agree on is that if there were a draft today, Tebow and Stafford would be drafted close together, both near the top/middle of Round 1.The biggest question in the 2009 draft right now, assuming Tebow comes out, is where he should be drafted.

This is pretty much what I have heard. Tebow will be all over the board from team to team because he is not viewed by all teams as a traditional QB. It is certainly possible he is drafted ahead of Stafford (if he enters), but I doubt it.

 

[gianmarco]

Stafford

Stafford

Stafford has far and away the best NFL arm IMO.

I'm not saying you're right or wrong about Stafford himself. I'm saying that you are wrong in saying he's viewed "universally" as the #1 QB prospect. There's nothing universal about it. I've seen a good # of places with Tebow #1 and Stafford #2. If it were universal, that wouldn't be the case. Arguing whether Tebow is better than Stafford is one thing. Arguing that (practically) everyone agrees Stafford is #1 is something else and it simply isn't true.

Tebow isn't going to be drafted as a traditional QB. Stafford will. It is said he will play multiple roles in the NFL. Not too mention that Tebow is not likely to come out next year.... We are talking about the 2009 draft after all. That is why I was not originally including Tebow.

Aside from Tebow possibly not coming out next year, I don't know where you're getting your information from. Who said he won't be drafted as a traditional QB? Here are 2 sites from a cursory search:

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/to...ts-for-2009.cfm

http://walterfootball.com/draft2009QB.php

I've seen others. They have Tebow listed as the top 2009 QB prospect. I don't know what else to say. Again, I'm not arguing with you on Stafford vs. Tebow, but it is simply NOT universal that Stafford is the #1 2009 QB prospect.

Your 1st link is not up to date. It is from March. Stafford is now ranked 1st in their May edition. Top 10 for this site. To be honest with you I would imagine most every site you see with Tebow ranked 1st is simply not updated. I could be wrong I suppose but it seems if I find a site with Tebow ranked 1st it is from March or prior.

Ok, here is yet another near the top of the search list:http://cfn.scout.com/2/750962.html

Updated on 4/28/08. I mean, I could keep pulling them up if you want. I'm not saying it's the majority of sites. But it's there. The fact that a simple search of Stafford vs. Tebow pulls up lots of hits shows that there is something to debate, it's pretty close between the two, and there is simply nothing universal about it. I'm not going to bother pulling up anymore because it doesn't matter. If you want to think that Stafford is the clear #1 and that everyone else in the world thinks so, then fine. It's not a matter of whether or not Tebow could be drafted in a wide range of spots or whether or not some teams view him as a traditional QB. The issue of Stafford being the better prospect is far from settled or the consensus view.

CJ2 was the universal #1 WR last year. There was no CJ2 vs. anyone else. Stafford isn't even in the ballpark as there is one name that pops up right alongside his every time. Tim Tebow. Things may change this year, but that doesn't change the current view.

 

[Almas_4th_Child]

Could you guys add more RB's to the ones you are talking about here.

Other than Wells, Moreno, Lucky, Ringer, Spiller, McCoy, Williams, murray, johnson and james davis.

I just would like to hear about some other prospects.

What about Mike Goodson? Any Juco's that are unreal talented? Incoming Freshman? RB's coming off of injuries?