2014 NFL Draft thread (1 Viewer)

[Premier]

" the Bucs don't appear to be seriously considering using their first pick on a signal caller."

The guy got hired yesterday. How could anybody possibly say the above. They have no idea what he's thinking.

 

[Faust]

St. Louis Rams have 'nice piece of real estate' in draft

 

[Faust]

The NFL Has A Major Underclassmen Problem

 

[Bracie Smathers]

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/eagles/20140126_Receiver_draft_class_may_determine_future_with_Eagles_for_Cooper_and_Maclin.html

Receiver draft class may determine Eagles future of Cooper, Maclin

MOBILE, Ala. - The Senior Bowl, once again, was not the place to find wide receivers who will be selected in the first round of the draft.

But buzz had already developed here about a group of underclassmen who could make the 2014 draft the deepest at the receiver position in years. And that could affect how the Eagles approach re-signing Riley Cooper and Jeremy Maclin.

... the wide-receiver depth in the draft does provide alternatives. Seven receivers, all underclassmen - Sammy Watkins of Clemson, Mike Evans of Texas A&M, Marquise Lee of Southern Cal, Kelvin Benjamin of Florida State, Allen Robinson of Penn State, Odell Beckham of Louisiana State, and Brandon Cooks of Oregon State - could go in the first round.



The talent doesn't end there, though, and the Eagles could look to the later rounds for replacements if either Cooper or Maclin leaves or veteran Jason Avant is waived.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

A couple of updates on Met's rehab.

Going good according to Adam Caplan:

-------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Former LSU QB Zach Mettenberger had ACL surgery just 24 days ago, but has really good range of motion already.

------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Mettenberger is going through drop-back and agility drills so far without any issues.

 

[pantherclub]

A couple of updates on Met's rehab.

Going good according to Adam Caplan:

-------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Former LSU QB Zach Mettenberger had ACL surgery just 24 days ago, but has really good range of motion already.

------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Mettenberger is going through drop-back and agility drills so far without any issues.

An absolute steal for the texans or anyone else in the 2nd round.

 

[Slapdash]

A couple of updates on Met's rehab.

Going good according to Adam Caplan:

-------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Former LSU QB Zach Mettenberger had ACL surgery just 24 days ago, but has really good range of motion already.

------------------------------------------

Adam Caplan‏@caplannflJan 27

Mettenberger is going through drop-back and agility drills so far without any issues.

An absolute steal for the texans or anyone else in the 2nd round.

Doubt it

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

 

[Bob Magaw]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

Still think Bridgewater with Bortles as a dark horse, Manziel would surprise me, not due to talent (where I think he is #2 in the class), but HC fit.

 

[pantherclub]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

Still think Bridgewater with Bortles as a dark horse, Manziel would surprise me, not due to talent (where I think he is #2 in the class), but HC fit.

with manziel you have to change your entire offense. Not so much with Bridgewater or bortles

 

[Bob Magaw]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

Still think Bridgewater with Bortles as a dark horse, Manziel would surprise me, not due to talent (where I think he is #2 in the class), but HC fit.

with manziel you have to change your entire offense. Not so much with Bridgewater or bortles

I think HC fit could be an issue due to the party boy lifestyle.

I'm not sure a team like JAX or CLE would have to blow up their playbook, it might be a case of tailoring the scheme to fit what he does best. When it comes to running plays, a handoff is a handoff.

 

[msommer]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

Still think Bridgewater with Bortles as a dark horse, Manziel would surprise me, not due to talent (where I think he is #2 in the class), but HC fit.

with manziel you have to change your entire offense. Not so much with Bridgewater or bortles

I think HC fit could be an issue due to the party boy lifestyle.

I'm not sure a team like JAX or CLE would have to blow up their playbook, it might be a case of tailoring the scheme to fit what he does best. When it comes to running plays, a handoff is a handoff.

Johnny Manziel hands off on running plays?

 

[Bracie Smathers]

The above comes from this tweet:

-------------------------------------------------

John McClain‏@McClain_on_NFL6h

I believe Texans will keep the top pick and take the highest-rated QB on their board. Too early to say who at this point. Lots of time left.

------------------------------------------------

NFL.COM jumped on that and put out a story on College Football 24-7 that provies a bit more detail.

------------------------------------------------

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000320317/article/mcclain-houston-texans-will-draft-quarterback-over-clowney?campaign=Twitter_nfl_cb

McClain: Houston Texans will draft quarterback over Clowney

• By Dan Greenspan
• College Football 24/7 writer
• Published: Jan. 30, 2014 at 12:40 p.m.
• Updated: Jan. 30, 2014 at 12:56 p.m.

What the Houston Texans will do with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft almost certainly comes down to taking Jadeveon Clowney or a quarterback. Veteran Houston Chronicle reporter John McClain believes it will be the latter.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," McClain wrote on Twitter.

"I believe Texans will keep the top pick and take the highest-rated QB on their board. Too early to say who at this point. Lots of time left," McClain added.

That assessment flies in the face of the first wave of mock drafts, as NFL Media analysts Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks each have the Texans taking the South Carolina defensive end. Pairing Clowney with J.J. Watt to create one of the most ferocious pass rushes in the league would seem to make more sense than trying to parse the top three quarterback prospects.

Teddy Bridgewater of Louisville is the most polished pocket passer, Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M the most exciting player, and Blake Bortles of UCF the most physically gifted of the three. None, however, appears to be in the same can't miss category as Andrew Luck was in 2012.

The Texans certainly need an upgrade under center, as their passing game with Matt Schaub and Case Keenum ranked 22nd in completion percentage, 24th in yards per attempt, 25th in touchdown passes, and third in interceptions this season.

But the track record of new head coach Bill O'Brien in developing walk-on Matt McGloin at Penn State and coaxing an 11-win season out of the New England Patriots with Matt Cassel would indicate that a top-tier quarterback might not be necessary for him to succeed.

Instead, a stopgap acquisition through free agency -- Josh McCown jumps to mind -- and drafting a developmental quarterback such as Eastern Illinois' Jimmy Garoppolo to go with Clowney might make more sense to O'Brien.

If the Texans do decide to take a quarterback with the top pick, it might not be clear who gets the nod until just before the draft begins on May 8.

Seems pretty early to be leaking intentions for the top pick to me.

 

[Raiderfan32904]

If this is true, the Rams hold the publishers house sweepstakes ticket for the Clowney winner.

 

[Bob Magaw]

Rotoworld:

The Houston Chronicle fully expects the Texans to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

"Each day I get asked multiple times: Who are Texans drafting? I tell them 1 of the 3 top QBs. Forget about any other position," said ace beat writer John McClain. If correct, it means teams can forget about trading into the No. 1 spot and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney will be available at No. 2. Our Josh Norris believes McClain is referring to Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles.

Related: Texans

Source: John McClain on Twitter

Still think Bridgewater with Bortles as a dark horse, Manziel would surprise me, not due to talent (where I think he is #2 in the class), but HC fit.

with manziel you have to change your entire offense. Not so much with Bridgewater or bortles

I think HC fit could be an issue due to the party boy lifestyle.

I'm not sure a team like JAX or CLE would have to blow up their playbook, it might be a case of tailoring the scheme to fit what he does best. When it comes to running plays, a handoff is a handoff.

Johnny Manziel hands off on running plays?

Manziel had 144 of the team's 453 rushing attempts in 2013.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Draft nuggets from Matt Miller.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1940833-2014-nfl-draft-matt-millers-scouting-notebook-for-the-super-bowl

— What player did the Jacksonville Jaguars fall in love with at the Senior Bowl? Quarterback Derek Carr from Fresno State led the South team all week with the Jaguars' coaches running practices.

— Rumor has it that UCLA's Anthony Barr is up to 260 pounds after playing at 245 pounds in his final year as a Bruin. Barr should be expected to run in the high-4.4 or low-4.5 range at the combine. I'm told he will run his 40-yard dash there.

— I continue to hear talk about Brett Hundley, even after he returned to UCLA for one more season. Rumor has it at least two teams communicated to Hundley through back channels that they would take him in the first round if he declared.

— Where will the San Francisco 49ers look to improve in the offseason? I'm told the front office is focused on the wide receiver position as the team's primary need.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Jaguars owner Shad Khan confirmed the team plans to draft a quarterback.

"Everybody knows we're going to draft a quarterback - maybe two," Khan said. The Jaguars hold the No. 3 pick in May's draft and very possibly could get their choice of the group, considering the Texans could take Jadeveon Clowney and the Rams don't appear to be in the market for a signal caller. Chad Henne is a free agent, and Blaine Gabbert's time has likely run up in Jacksonville. Henne could be brought back to help tutor a young quarterback. Central Florida's Blake Bortles, Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, and Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel are widely viewed as the top three quarterback prospects.

Related: Jaguars

Source: Ryan O'Halloran on Twitter

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

If the Jags want their top QB choice they better move up. The Texans are taking one for sure and I expect the Rams will trade their pick to another team that wants one.

 

[Hersh]

Bump to keep it on p. 1

 

[Faust]

WATCH: Texans positioning to move down in 2014 NFL Draft

 

[Village Idiot]

For those that like to play with mock drafts here you go.

They update data every Tuesday.

They value a few players a bit low but it's fun to play with since you can choose to draft as any team for any number of rounds from 1 to 7.

http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Jimmy Garoppolo - QB - Panthers
Former NFL scout John Middlekauff notes teams will attempt to mimic Seattle's personnel style in draft meetings over the next few weeks.
As Middlekauff points out, it will not be easy. The Seahawks made the most of their window thanks to young stars still on their rookie deals complemented by impact short-term free agents. Landing a starting quarterback in the third-round after taking multiple mid-level shots at the position is very, very difficult, and decision makers must be very comfortable in their situation to take the road less traveled. Eastern Illinois' Jimmy Garoppolo could be that second day quarterback selection on many teams' boards thanks to his quick feet, release and decision making.


Source: John Middlekauff on Twitter

 

[Donnybrook]

For those that like to play with mock drafts here you go.

They update data every Tuesday.

They value a few players a bit low but it's fun to play with since you can choose to draft as any team for any number of rounds from 1 to 7.

http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

Simulator is not working for me.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

For those that like to play with mock drafts here you go.

They update data every Tuesday.

They value a few players a bit low but it's fun to play with since you can choose to draft as any team for any number of rounds from 1 to 7.

http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

Simulator is not working for me.

Worked for me...very happy with the Vikings' results.

1. Blake Bortles

2. Timmy Jernigan

3a. Shayne Skov

3b. Carlos Hyde

Kind of fun to do.

 

[Village Idiot]

For those that like to play with mock drafts here you go.

They update data every Tuesday.

They value a few players a bit low but it's fun to play with since you can choose to draft as any team for any number of rounds from 1 to 7.

http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

Simulator is not working for me.

Hmm works perfectly on my Windows 7 professional system at work.Maybe it isn't compatible with all systems?

4 Sammy Watkins WR

26 David Yankey G

35 Jordan Matthews WR

71 Jimmy Garoppolo QB

83 Chris Borland ILB

102 Lache Seastrunk RB

123 Bryan Stork C

133 Keith McGill CB

164 Mike Davis WR

195 Vinnie Sunseri S

was what I got for the Browns.

 

[Donnybrook]

I found it was a problem with my Browser. My Vikings draft:

8 - OLB KHALIL MACK BUFFALO

40 - G XAVIER SUA-FILO UCLA

72 - CB STANLEY JEAN- BAPTISTE NEBRASKA

96 - QB JIMMY GAROPPOLO EASTERN ILLINOIS

104 - DT JUSTIN ELLIS LOUISIANA TECH

 

[Kiddnets]

As a Jet fan I would be darn happy with what I ended up with in my 3 rd mock - Jets draft a new offense

18. Greg Robinson, OL

49 Jordan Matthews, WR

69 Brandin Cooks, WR

80 Zach Mettenberger, QB

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

ESPN Cleveland considers UCF's Blake Bortles the "best fit" for the Browns amongst this year's draft-eligible quarterbacks.

It appears many teams are going to consider Bortles their "best fit" thanks to his size (6-foot-4, 230 pounds) and command of the pocket. Cleveland isn't believed to be one of them, however. GM Mike Lombardi's club has been strongly connected to Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel for months. At this point in the draft process, Bortles resembles a rich man's Jake Locker, but very much appears destined to go in the top 10.

Related: Browns

Source: Tony Grossi on Twitter

 

[RUSF18]

DId a couple runs with the Niners...DL depth isn't needed this badly but the talent/value was too hard to pass up.

30
DT AARON DONALD
PITTSBURGH
56
CB KYLE FULLER
VIRGINIA TECH
61
WR BRANDIN COOKS
OREGON STATE
77
DE JACKSON JEFFCOAT
TEXAS
94
DT EGO FERGUSON
LSU
30
CB JUSTIN GILBERT
OKLAHOMA STATE
56
DE SCOTT CRICHTON
OREGON STATE
61
WR JORDAN MATTHEWS
VANDERBILT
77
DT DOMINIQUE EASLEY
FLORIDA
94
G ANTHONY STEEN
ALABAMA
Running this a couple times, you really see the picks/players swing wildly.

 

[saintfool]

Went all 7 for the Saints. I kind of like the way it turned out. We need quality depth at DB. An upgrade at the DL. More youth in WR. A possible successor to Brees who can sit and learn from the master. Hubbard has skills and Lattimore could help at ST.

27
CB JUSTIN GILBERT
OKLAHOMA STATE
58
DT RA’SHEDE HAGEMAN
MINNESOTA
91
WR JARED ABBREDERIS
WISCONSIN
122
QB AARON MURRAY
GEORGIA
155
OLB ADRIAN HUBBARD
ALABAMA
186
ILB DEDE LATTIMORE
SOUTH FLORIDA

 

[The Hank]

Here is what I ended up w/ for Steelers:

15
OT GREG ROBINSON
AUBURN
46
DT RA’SHEDE HAGEMAN
MINNESOTA
114
CB PIERRE DESIR
LINDENWOOD
145
ILB LAMIN BARROW
LSU
176
WR JEFF JANIS
SAGINAW VALLEY STATE
207
S VINNIE SUNSERI
ALABAMA

 

[siffoin]

Was pretty fun to do. Here's what I got for the Falcons:

​

6 DE JADEVEON CLOWNEY
SOUTH CAROLINA -

37 DT TIMMY JERNIGAN
FLORIDA STATE
68 G GABE JACKSON

MISSISSIPPI STATE
99 DT DOMINIQUE EASLEY

FLORIDA

135 QB AARON MURRAY
GEORGIA

166 S KENNY LADLER
VANDERBILT
197 FB J.C. COPELAND

LSU

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Former NFL scout Russ Lande has been informed by "trusted sources" that the Texans are leaning toward selecting UCF's Blake Bortles or Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel with the No. 1 overall pick.

Per Lande, Manziel would "obviously be the choice" of Texans owner Bob McNair. We'd assume that's due to the whole Texas connection, wanting to keep Johnny Football home, and the excitement it would bring to the fan base. However, coach Bill O'Brien is reportedly concerned about Manziel's "work ethic and intangibles." Bortles has your prototypical size at 6-foot-4, 230 and has been linked to the Texans for the past month. Louisville QB Teddy Bridgewater and South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney also can't be ruled out. We have a long way to go before the draft kicks off on May 8.

Related: Texans, Johnny Manziel

Source: Sports on Earth

 

[Faust]

Twitter:

Vic Tafur ‏@VicTafur

“@greggabe: Still way to early in the process. We have 3 months to go before draft. Anything you hear or read now is nothing but BS” >> Amen

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

The Sideline View's Lance Zierlein tweeted if he had to bet money on who the Texans will select with the No. 1 pick, he would choose UCF QB Blake Bortles.

Bill O'Brien "likes his size and arm," Zierlein writes, adding the new head coach played under UCF's George O'Leary. He "was a big mentor for O'Brien." The NFL obsesses over measurables, and Bortles certainly has the prototypical height and size for the position. It is more than that, however, and Bortles does display strong pocket movement and an ability to work through progressions.


Source: Lance Zierlein on Twitter

 

[Bracie Smathers]

New top-fifty listing.

Here are the top-five names.

Go to the link for the full-fifty.

http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/46173/325/nfl-draft-norris-top-50

NFL Draft: Norris' Top 50Tuesday, February 04, 2014

[SIZE=medium]1. QB Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville[/SIZE]

NFL Comparison: Russell Wilson, but three inches taller and less explosive movements.

Where He Wins: Excellent pocket movement. Bounces off his back foot to step up against edge pressure and isn’t afraid to slide laterally when faced with an interior rush. Keeps eyes up to survey coverages and works to multiple reads. Placement and touch are there, but has the velocity to hit vertical routes on the move. Not afraid to give a covered receiver in single coverage a chance to win. Reports have stated he takes care of many checks at the line of scrimmage.

Where He Fits: He fits any offense. Sustains success from the pocket but also has mobility which isn’t showcased often. Hits every level with placement and timing.

2014 Draft Projection: No. 1 or 2 pick.

[SIZE=medium]2. Edge player Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina[/SIZE]

NFL Comparison: Uses a J.J. Watt like swim move, athleticism might be Julius Peppers-esque.

Where He Wins: Predominantly lines up at right defensive end in a three-point stance as a five, seven, or nine technique. His explosion off the snap is ridiculous, gaining an instant advantage against his competition. Obviously the swarming wingspan and closing speed is there, and he enjoys finishing hits with force. Has frequently taken the inside line this year, likely due to the shorter distance to the backfield. Loves to utilize an arm over swim and athletic footwork is on displays when avoiding cut blocks. Loops inside with ease. A rare power and speed athlete.

Where He Fits: Most experience in a four man front, but his talent could be used in any defensive scheme.

Draft Projection: The first non-QB off the board. Top-5 pick.

[SIZE=medium]3. Edge player Khalil Mack, Buffalo[/SIZE]

NFL Comparison: Ahmad Brooks-plus

Where He Wins: Displays a unique combination of size and strength. Has quickness to get underneath an offensive lineman’s pads and then use his strength to drive that lineman into the backfield. Controls run blockers, maintaining outside leverage and resetting the line of scrimmage. Has enough athleticism to be a factor in coverage and can avoid cut blocks.

Where He Fits: As a stand up weakside pass rusher alongside a three man line or could play a strong side linebacker in a 4-3 under.

Draft Projection: Has off-field question stemming from a suspension, but likely top-10 pick.

Fulton: Mack vs. Miller

[SIZE=medium]4. WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson[/SIZE]

NFL Comparison: The current Torrey Smith but more of a threat after the catch.

Where He Wins: The combination of burst and smooth movements in and out of his breaks or after catch moves is great. Hands catcher away from his body. An explosive player with the ball in his hands, gets up to high gear very quickly. Will go across the middle and catch passes in tight windows. Cuts routes off very quickly. Has balance to stay up beyond first defender. Wins from slot or outside.

Where He Fits: Will help in a variety of ways, including yards after the catch, vertical routes, and in the return game.

Draft Projection: Expected to be the first receiver off the board, unless a team goes for a taller target who specializes in winning at the catch point. Top-10.

[SIZE=medium]5. T Jake Matthews, Texas A&M[/SIZE]

NFL Comparison: Jordan Gross

Where He Wins: Doesn’t sit back and wait, finds contact through his hands and is an aggressive blocker. Obtains inside hand positioning and adjusts if necessary. Athletic feet to keep proper shoulder alignment, which prevents bending from the waist. Displays ability to bend at the knee to absorb and redirect. Sets up cut blocks and drives through with force. Moving from right to left tackle.

Where He Fits: Has experience and played at a high level at left or right tackle. If a team wants him at center they will not get him.

Draft Projection: Top-10.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

ESPN's Mel Kiper believes 10 or more pass-catchers could be selected in the first round.
In that count, Kiper includes tight ends such as UNC's Eric Ebron, Texas Tech's Jace Amaro and Notre Dame's Troy Niklas. At first blush, the number seems high, but more and more mock drafts are listing seven receivers in the first round. If that happens, the tight ends should help push the total amount of first-round pass-catchers into the double digits.

Source: Mel Kiper on Twitter

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: Combine snubs at each position

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Another day, another top-fifty list.

This one from Yahoo Shutdown Corner.

Here is the link and the top-five.

Go to the link for the rest of the top-fifty.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/2014-nfl-draft-report-sammy-watkins-headlines-top-202128474--nfl.html

2014 NFL draft report; Sammy Watkins headlines our top 50 prospects listBy Eric EdholmFebruary 4, 2014 3:21 PMShutdown Corner
We’We’ve spoken with various league sources throughout the season about the 2014 NFL draft, and with the Senior Bowl in the rearview mirror and the scouting combine close enough to sniff, we thought we’d take our first crack at a list of the top 50 draft prospects.

This obviously will change in the coming months, with key interview, medical and workout information that will come out in Indianapolis, in players’ pro days and during private workouts and visits.

But for now, here’s how we see things standing in terms of overall talent (different from league value), regardless of position and taking no consideration for where teams pick in the draft. This is not a mock draft, but rather a more clear indication of the prospects’ overall grades.

1. Clemson WR Sammy Watkins — No major holes in his game. Projected as a future No. 1 "X" receiver.
2. Auburn OT Greg Robinson — The best run blocker in the draft. Has the feet to play left tackle.
3. Texas A&M OT Jake Matthews — Some feel he has higher upside than ex-Aggie Luke Joeckel.
4. South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney — From a talent perspective, none better. Motivation questions persist.
5. Buffalo DE-OLB Khalil Mack — Turn on the Ohio State tape: a glimpse of future dominance.

 

[ShaHBucks]

Sammy Watkins is being really overrated. Top-5? He better run a 4.2 or something at the combine.

 

[Bob Magaw]

Some scouts think he is the best since A.J. Green and Julio Jones, if not quite that good, and they went 1.4 and 1.6.

I think he has a chance to run a sub-4.4. In training recently, after a 40 his trainers said he didn't need to work on it anymore.

He does have a track background, and ran something like a 10.4-10.5 100 m. as a prep.

Watkins has consistently been graded as top 5 or close since the bowl games ended and the pre-draft process started. IMO, no chance he drops to DET at 1.10 (though that would be nasty with Calvin, so might be Mike Evans).

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Sammy Watkins is being really overrated. Top-5? He better run a 4.2 or something at the combine.

Yet another top list, this one only 32 players from Our Lads.

Sammy Watkins makes the top-five again.

Go to the link for the rest of the top thirty-two.

http://www.ourlads.com/top-32-college-senior-prospects/nfl-draft/2014/2356481

1. DE Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina

2. OT Jake Mathews, Texas A&M

Four-year starter who played right tackle in 2012. The second pick in the 2013 draft, Luke Joeckel, played on the left side. Moved to left tackle in the spring. Matthews is the middle son of Hall-of-Famer Bruce Matthews. A knee bender who plays with attitude and effort. Competes for an up-tempo offensive team. Good athletic ability and is consistently effective as a run blocker and pass protector. Smooth lateral shuffle in pass protection. Plays square with his long torso and takes advantage of his long arms. Uses his quick hands efficiently in his punch, stab, placement, and extension. Good six-inch pop. Can redirect and shift his weight quickly. Moves quickly off the ball as a zone blocker in the run game. Solid stance and foot quickness. Effective on combination and second level blocks. Stays balanced with good body control when blocking on the move. Plays with good leverage to anchor versus power. A top-5 talent. First-team All-American by the Football Writers of America Association.

3. WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson

4. OT Greg Robinson, Auburn

5. OLB Anthony Barr, UCLA

Two-year starter. Moved to linebacker in the spring of 2012 after playing running back and Pistol fullback for two years. Projects as a 3-4 right outside pass rushing linebacker. Can beat an offensive tackle with his athletic ability. Sets the edge in the running game. Plays with knee bend and leverage. Gets under a tackle’s pads and can run him back to the quarterback. Has the speed to run down screen passes from behind. Plays square, locks out, and skates down the line of scrimmage. Explosive and sudden quickness off the ball on a speed rush. Tough to block on twist stunts. Can bend the corner. Equally as quick in a three or two point stance. Has a burst to the quarterback after he gets off the block. Quick change of direction in space. A four down linebacker who is effective dropping into coverage or breaking up on checkdowns. Has the strength to close and stack the off tackle seams. A natural that is still learning the position.

 

[ShaHBucks]

Some scouts think he is the best since A.J. Green and Julio Jones, if not quite that good, and they went 1.4 and 1.6.

I think he has a chance to run a sub-4.4. In training recently, after a 40 his trainers said they didn't need to work on it anymore.

He does have a track background, and ran something like a 10.4-10.5 100 m. as a prep.

Watkins has consistently been graded as top 5 or close since the bowl games ended and the pre-draft process started. IMO, no chance he drops to DET at 1.10 (though that would be nasty with Calvin, so might be Mike Evans).

I think we been through this one with Tavon Austin. A 4.3 wouldn't even have me consider him a top-5 prospect. A ton of small recievers run sub-low 4.4 now. Simple measurable:

6.0’1.0″ tall, 214 pounds = DeAndre Hopkins (2013 #27 NFL Draft pick, Houston)

6.0’0.5″ tall, 208 pounds = Sammy Watkins (projected size at 2014 NFL Combine)

Best college season(per game):

6.3 rec., 108.1 rec. yards, 1.38 TDs = Hopkins

7.8 rec., 112.6 rec. yards, 0.92 TDs = Watkins

I don't even know if he's the best since Hopkins given he's projeted to come in smaller

 

[pantherclub]

Sammy Watkins is being really overrated. Top-5? He better run a 4.2 or something at the combine.

He is the absolute cannot miss prospect of this draft. I think he is a top 10 wr in two years if not sooner. The dude has no flaws.

 

[pantherclub]

Some scouts think he is the best since A.J. Green and Julio Jones, if not quite that good, and they went 1.4 and 1.6.

I think he has a chance to run a sub-4.4. In training recently, after a 40 his trainers said they didn't need to work on it anymore.

He does have a track background, and ran something like a 10.4-10.5 100 m. as a prep.

Watkins has consistently been graded as top 5 or close since the bowl games ended and the pre-draft process started. IMO, no chance he drops to DET at 1.10 (though that would be nasty with Calvin, so might be Mike Evans).

I think we been through this one with Tavon Austin. A 4.3 wouldn't even have me consider him a top-5 prospect. A ton of small recievers run sub-low 4.4 now.Simple measurable:

6.0’1.0″ tall, 214 pounds = DeAndre Hopkins (2013 #27 NFL Draft pick, Houston)

6.0’0.5″ tall, 208 pounds = Sammy Watkins (projected size at 2014 NFL Combine)

Best college season(per game):

6.3 rec., 108.1 rec. yards, 1.38 TDs = Hopkins

7.8 rec., 112.6 rec. yards, 0.92 TDs = Watkins

I don't even know if he's the best since Hopkins given he's projeted to come in smaller

thats kindof the neanderthal way of looking at things

 

[ShaHBucks]

I hate to be so simplistic. Is he's really a game changer like Julio and Green?

 

[pantherclub]

I hate to be so simplistic. Is he's really a game changer like Julio and Green?

Honest question, how many games have you watched of him?

He is an absolute game changer. He is fast, big, catches everything that is close to him and has the potential to take it to the house each time he touches the ball.

 

[ShaHBucks]

Some scouts think he is the best since A.J. Green and Julio Jones, if not quite that good, and they went 1.4 and 1.6.

I think he has a chance to run a sub-4.4. In training recently, after a 40 his trainers said they didn't need to work on it anymore.

He does have a track background, and ran something like a 10.4-10.5 100 m. as a prep.

Watkins has consistently been graded as top 5 or close since the bowl games ended and the pre-draft process started. IMO, no chance he drops to DET at 1.10 (though that would be nasty with Calvin, so might be Mike Evans).

I think we been through this one with Tavon Austin. A 4.3 wouldn't even have me consider him a top-5 prospect. A ton of small recievers run sub-low 4.4 now.Simple measurable:

6.0’1.0″ tall, 214 pounds = DeAndre Hopkins (2013 #27 NFL Draft pick, Houston)

6.0’0.5″ tall, 208 pounds = Sammy Watkins (projected size at 2014 NFL Combine)

Best college season(per game):

6.3 rec., 108.1 rec. yards, 1.38 TDs = Hopkins

7.8 rec., 112.6 rec. yards, 0.92 TDs = Watkins

I don't even know if he's the best since Hopkins given he's projeted to come in smaller

thats kindof the neanderthal way of looking at things

What would you call this?

He is the absolute cannot miss prospect of this draft. I think he is a top 10 wr in two years if not sooner. The dude has no flaws.

 

[ShaHBucks]

I hate to be so simplistic. Is he's really a game changer like Julio and Green?

Honest question, how many games have you watched of him?He is an absolute game changer. He is fast, big, catches everything that is close to him and has the potential to take it to the house each time he touches the ball.

16 million. And I watched a few HS games.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

I hate to be so simplistic. Is he's really a game changer like Julio and Green?

Putting Watkins up against AJ Green and Julio Jones doesn't really make a case of where he rates in this draft class.

For instance I don't think any of the QBs of this draft class rate near Andrew Luck or RG III or even Russell Wilson yet I'm pretty sue that at least two of the guys from this current draft class with be taken in the top five picks.

Yet another top-fifty list and yet again Sammy Watkins breaks into the top-five rated players of this draft class.

Go to the link for the rest of the top-fifty.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000323455/article/recruiting-profiles-of-top-50-prospects-in-2014-nfl-draft

Recruiting profiles of top 50 prospects in 2014 NFL DraftCollege Football 24/7 writer

Published: Feb. 4, 2014 at 01:20 p.m.

Updated: Feb. 4, 2014 at 01:27 p.m.

A look at the high school recruiting profiles of the top 50 prospects for the 2014 NFL Draft, according to NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah:

1. Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina Class: 2011Size as a recruit: 6-6, 247

Rivals.com rating: 5 stars

Rivals.com national ranking: No. 1

Also considered: Alabama, Clemson

» Video: High school highlights

==========================

2. Sammy Watkins, WR, ClemsonClass: 2011

Size as a recruit: 6-1, 180

Rivals.com rating: 5 stars

Rivals.com national ranking: No. 15

Also considered: Florida, Michigan, Miami

» Video: High school highlights

========================

3. Greg Robinson, OT, AuburnClass: 2011

Size as a recruit: 6-5, 296

Rivals.com rating: 4 stars

Rivals.com national ranking: No. 90

Also considered: LSU

» Video: High school highlights

========================

4. Anthony Barr, LB, UCLAClass: 2010

Size as a recruit: 6-4, 230

Rivals.com rating: 4 stars

Rivals.com national ranking: No. 50

Also considered: Notre Dame, FSU

» Video: High school highlights

========================

5. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&MClass: 2010

Size as a recruit: 6-5, 275

Rivals.com rating: 4 stars

Rivals.com national ranking: No. 48

Also considered: Texas