Alan Branch (1 Viewer)

[Jason Wood]

Bloom, Cec and everyone else that is zeroed in on the draft this year, I just happened to glance at Mel Kiper's new top 25 and see that Alan Branch has fallen out of it. While I knew that Branch had been falling in some eyes due to his interview process and some work ethic issues, I was stunned to see his star has fallen so far.

Questions for you:

1) Is Kiper being aggressive here or is Branch now considered a fringe 1st rounder by most pundits?

2) What do YOU think of Branch; are people overreacting [it seems we have those players each year that teams talk themselves out of only to regret it later]

3) Any detail on why Branch is falling beyond the ethereal "bad interviews"?

TIA,

Woodrow

 

[Evilgrin 72]

What I've been hearing is that he's looked out of shape, has been giving off bad impressions in interviews. From what I understand, the knock on him going into the offseason was that he takes plays off, is lackadaisical, doesn't have passion for the game, etc. I heard him laugh this off in an interview on Sirius NFL Radio around bowl season, but I think he's simply reaffirming these assertions with his approach to the combine/interview process.

I don't see him falling out of the first round at all, but I don't necessarily believe people are overreacting. His size and potential will keep him in the first, but I think a guy like Okoye, who has even more potential, has likely surpassed him as the top DT propsect in many teams' minds. I still see Branch going mid-late first round, but his "bust potential," real or perceived, may scare some teams off, and I doubt he goes top 8-10 as had been projected.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

In the last couple of drafts, I've noticed that once defensive tackles start falling, they REALLY fall.

In the little bit that I saw him play this year, I wasn't all that impressed. It wasn't long ago that Quinn Pitcock was also considered a 1st rounder. You don't see that name up there any more either.

I still doubt Branch falls out of the 1st round, though.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I can't imagine that a two gap DT with as much potential as Branch has will plummet out of the first round, but the point about DTs falling hard once the slide starts is valid.

One anecdote that's been cited frequently is Branch's near-quitting on Tim Krumrie during a slap-fight drill Krumrie likes to put linemen through to see how tough they are.

From PFT.com

Word trickling out of the Michigan Pro Day is that Chiefs defensive line

coach Tim Krumrie roughed up defensive tackle Alan Branch in one of

Krumrie's one-on-one slap fights.

Per a league source, Branch looked winded before he even got to the patented

Krumrie spanking machine. At one point during his session with Krumrie,

Branch appeared to be ready to quit.

Gil Brandt of NFL.com corroborates this in his Pro Day updates: "Tim

Krumrie worked Branch hard during the position drills, and the scouts there

said Branch did not look like he was in very good shape."

Krumrie, better known to most fans as the guy who got Theismanned during

Super Bowl XXIII, is a legend in league circles for the no-pads

hand-fighting test, to which he subjects many of the linemen he is scouting.

"It's Gladiator stuff," said one league source.

For Branch, who is projected by many as a top-ten pick, the end result

apparently was thumbs down.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

1) I would not say that Branch is a fringe first rounder, but there is a possibility that he falls out of the first at this point. I still see him as the number 2 true DT and number 3 interior lineman (still ahead of Tyler and Harrell) off the board, and the kind of player a team talks themselves into reaching for with his rare size/athleticism combo. Controlling the line of scrimmage is everything and Branch presents exciting possibilities in that area, whether a team runs a 3-4 or a 4-3. He's also the only player in this draft of his type - many drafts lack any players with Branch's kind of size/athleticism mix. he's not a dancing bear like Gabe Watson, last year's michigan DT who seemed to be all over draft boards and fell to Arizona in the 4th, he's more like a giant - think john henderson.

2) Even before the perception of Branch started to turn, it was clear that he was the type of player that doesnt get the most out of his tools. There was also a "rising tide lifts all boats" effect on that Michigan D - the talent at every level of the D made everyone look better. Burgess, Hall, and Woodley have all seen their perceived stock drop since the season ended. I am not sure if Branch will unlock his potential or if this lack of intensity/consistency will always handicap him. I do feel confident that he's the kind of physical specimen that only comes along once every few years and he plays a crucial role on the field to boot. I don't think the drop is an overreaction. Everyone is smitten with Okoye, and they should be. Carriker is second on my DT board. That's not a typo. When it came time to draft an interior lineman, I would take Carriker before Branch because of his value as a guy that can do most anything you ask of a DL. Branch comes into play after those two are off the board. I guess that a 3-4 team might really love the idea of Branch's versatility in that scheme, I think he could serve as a DE and NT - lets see what happens if Carriker and Branch are both available at SFs pick. But I digress... Branch is the third best interior DL at this point on my board.

3) Why else is he falling? Some of the first rounders are either really enhancing the perception of the areas that were already thought of as their strong suit or showing strength in formerly perceived weaknesses or otherwise unknown strengths. Guys like Landry, Willis, and Okoye are filling out the picture and answering any remaining doubts, while Branch has been giving the pessimists more fuel than the optimists. He's a possible franchise player if he tightens up the screws on his game because he could disrupt everything in both the run and the passing downs, creating externalities for rest of the defense to exploit , but the complete picture lacks that blue-chipper feel. That likely drops him out of the top 10, but his rare physical profile is a wildcard - it could allow a team to talk themselves into reaching for him because the opportunity to take a player that does the things he can do doesnt come along very often.

 

[Jason Wood]

Thanks fellas...

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Last year, guys like Claude Wroten, Gabriel Watson, Orien Harris, and Rodrique Wright were all at one time or another thought of as 1st rounders. They ended up at 3.4, 4.10, 4.36, and 7.18 respectively.

 

[fatness]

March 17 ESPN interview with Branch

Bensinger: You play a variety of positions. Which do you like the most?

Branch: I like defensive end the most because a lot of times it's one-on-one blocking. It's only you and the tackle on passing situations. When you're an inside tackle, you can get blocked down from anywhere.

Bensinger: When you meet with a team, would that question come up?

Branch: They ask me what position I'm most comfortable with. I'm most comfortable with the inside tackle technique. There aren't too many teams looking at me as a defensive end.

Bensinger: Would you like teams to give you more consideration as a defensive end?

Branch: Shoot, they can put me anywhere on the line and I'll be happy to play! I just want to get in there and show what I got.

Bensinger: How was your combine experience?

Branch: It was a mental thing. You had to be in certain places at a certain time. I was training in Arizona and the combine was in Indianapolis, so I was two hours behind. We had to wake up at 6 a.m. in Indianapolis and that's really 4 a.m. in Arizona. My body wasn't used to that. It was kind of tough from that aspect. I'd have to sit down for an hour and a half, then rush from this station to that station. Two hours you're busy and then the next two hours you're sitting there doing nothing. It's a huge mind game.

Bensinger: You get very few hours of sleep and you're expected to perform at your best.

Branch: They do it on purpose. They want to see how you're going to face difficult situations.

Bensinger: I heard you had a fun pro day. Chiefs' defensive line coach Tim Krumrie worked you out. What do you think of him?

Branch: (laughs) He's a funny, cool guy, but I didn't know what I was getting into (laughs). He knows what he's doing. He knows how to wear guys out. My whole thing was trying not to show that I was tired, even though everybody knew that I was. But I didn't hunch over once. I didn't bend at the waist or put my hands to my knees. I was trying to show that no matter how tired I am, you aren't going to get me to quit.

Bensinger: Tell me about the one-on-one slap fights he was doing.

Branch: Krumrie would grab your shoulders and you had to do something to get his hands off. He's a strong guy. He's a tough guy. It wasn't easy!

Bensinger: Some people afterwards said that you appeared out of shape. What do you say to that?

Branch: I laugh at them and tell them to try doing that with Krumrie! It's impossible to do that drill with somebody and not get tired. They can say I got tired fast, but doing that strenuous activity with someone that strong -- you're going to get tired. If I had known what we were going to do, I would have been able to do a little better.

Bensinger: What did Krumrie say to you afterwards?

Branch: He and a lot of the other coaches said I did a good job. I just laugh about the scouts saying that stuff -- out of shape and became tired quickly. It's just funny to me.

Bensinger: How do you handle the critics, hype and speculation?

Branch: I listen with open ears. I laugh at all the rumors going around. It's like high school. I hear what they are saying, but I'm not going to let it affect me. A lot of times people that talk really don't even know the game. They've seen tape of me which will do more talking than the drills. The whole thing with Krumrie was trying to show your toughness with all of the scouts looking.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Last year, guys like Claude Wroten, Gabriel Watson, Orien Harris, and Rodrique Wright were all at one time or another thought of as 1st rounders. They ended up at 3.4, 4.10, 4.36, and 7.18 respectively.

Wroten - arrest - last year's Marcus Thomas - fell out on characterWatson - some in common with Branch - taking plays off was an issue. also see aboveHarris - I dont know that he ever really took root as a first rounder, but some saw him as a first day guy. he definitely dropped. Wright - had a torn rotator cuff, but had already had a stinker of a senior year. im interested to see if he pays off for Miami.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Last year, guys like Claude Wroten, Gabriel Watson, Orien Harris, and Rodrique Wright were all at one time or another thought of as 1st rounders. They ended up at 3.4, 4.10, 4.36, and 7.18 respectively.

Wroten - arrest - last year's Marcus Thomas - fell out on characterWatson - some in common with Branch - taking plays off was an issue. also see aboveHarris - I dont know that he ever really took root as a first rounder, but some saw him as a first day guy. he definitely dropped. Wright - had a torn rotator cuff, but had already had a stinker of a senior year. im interested to see if he pays off for Miami.

Of these guys, who has a chance to do anything at this level? I know the Steelers cut Harris, and I think the Browns signed him, but I never heard anything out of these guys - did Wright even sniff the field? I think Wroten and Watson did, but didn't do much...

 

[Jene Bramel]

Last year, guys like Claude Wroten, Gabriel Watson, Orien Harris, and Rodrique Wright were all at one time or another thought of as 1st rounders. They ended up at 3.4, 4.10, 4.36, and 7.18 respectively.

Wroten - arrest - last year's Marcus Thomas - fell out on characterWatson - some in common with Branch - taking plays off was an issue. also see aboveHarris - I dont know that he ever really took root as a first rounder, but some saw him as a first day guy. he definitely dropped. Wright - had a torn rotator cuff, but had already had a stinker of a senior year. im interested to see if he pays off for Miami.

Of these guys, who has a chance to do anything at this level? I know the Steelers cut Harris, and I think the Browns signed him, but I never heard anything out of these guys - did Wright even sniff the field? I think Wroten and Watson did, but didn't do much...

Wright was on the injured list early and never played. IIRC, he didn't have surgery until after the draft. He had a decent future as a three-technique type tackle in Saban's scheme, but might struggle to hold his own at DE in Capers' more traditional 3-4. I'm still holding some hope for Wroten, but he didn't look nearly as good as the season wore on as he did earlier in the year and in camp. He and Watson are the best long-term bets, but may only work in a rotational role.ETA: Quick google search confirms that Wright didn't have surgery until mid-May. He looks like he returned to practice late in the year during that three week window to activate a player from PUP and took most of his snaps at end before being IR'ed.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Last year, guys like Claude Wroten, Gabriel Watson, Orien Harris, and Rodrique Wright were all at one time or another thought of as 1st rounders. They ended up at 3.4, 4.10, 4.36, and 7.18 respectively.

Wroten - arrest - last year's Marcus Thomas - fell out on characterWatson - some in common with Branch - taking plays off was an issue. also see aboveHarris - I dont know that he ever really took root as a first rounder, but some saw him as a first day guy. he definitely dropped. Wright - had a torn rotator cuff, but had already had a stinker of a senior year. im interested to see if he pays off for Miami.

Of these guys, who has a chance to do anything at this level? I know the Steelers cut Harris, and I think the Browns signed him, but I never heard anything out of these guys - did Wright even sniff the field? I think Wroten and Watson did, but didn't do much...

Wright was on the injured list early and never played. IIRC, he didn't have surgery until after the draft. He had a decent future as a three-technique type tackle in Saban's scheme, but might struggle to hold his own at DE in Capers' more traditional 3-4. I'm still holding some hope for Wroten, but he didn't look nearly as good as the season wore on as he did earlier in the year and in camp. He and Watson are the best long-term bets, but may only work in a rotational role.

Thanks, Jene. Good stuff here.Personally, I would be really worried about taking a DT (or any player) in round 1 that had a reputation for not being a hard worker. Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

 

[Snotbubbles]

Thanks, Jene. Good stuff here.Personally, I would be really worried about taking a DT (or any player) in round 1 that had a reputation for not being a hard worker. Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

Yeah. Randall Cunningham had a terrible career.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Thanks, Jene. Good stuff here.Personally, I would be really worried about taking a DT (or any player) in round 1 that had a reputation for not being a hard worker. Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

Yeah. Randall Cunningham had a terrible career.

First of all, Cunningham wasn't a first round pick. An Eagles fan should know that.Second, so you're going to cherry pick a guy and use that as an argument that teams should take first round chances on guys with questionable character/work ethic? I bet you I can come up with 5 flops for every one success story you can post - and I'm being very easy on you with that number.

 

[BGP]

I googled ( "not a hard worker" nfl draft ) just to see what it would dig up from past NFL drafts. The only player I could find that made it in the NFL with that label was Randy Moss, but then again Moss' athletic ability was unbelievable when he came out of college, and lately he hasn't been the same player. Lendale White had it last year. Albert Haynesworth had it as well. I guess the Titans don't mind drafting such guys.

 

[Snotbubbles]

Second, so you're going to cherry pick a guy and use that as an argument that teams should take first round chances on guys with questionable character/work ethic? I bet you I can come up with 5 flops for every one success story you can post - and I'm being very easy on you with that number.

You can come up with 5 flops for every one success story for guys with good character/work ethic. What's your point?You said guys that don't work hard:

Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

It took me 2 seconds to think of a guy who didn't work hard and made it. What's worse is that he wasn't even a first round pick. Sure being a hard worker is a good characteristic, but it's not the end all be all.

 

[BGP]

Second, so you're going to cherry pick a guy and use that as an argument that teams should take first round chances on guys with questionable character/work ethic? I bet you I can come up with 5 flops for every one success story you can post - and I'm being very easy on you with that number.

You can come up with 5 flops for every one success story for guys with good character/work ethic. What's your point?You said guys that don't work hard:

Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

It took me 2 seconds to think of a guy who didn't work hard and made it. What's worse is that he wasn't even a first round pick. Sure being a hard worker is a good characteristic, but it's not the end all be all.

When someone makes a statement like that, you do not disprove them by finding one example. That guy could be the exception to the rule. It might be sound for some to avoid drafting anyone with that label if the percentage of those who actually make it is low enough.

 

[Jason Wood]

I think "not being a hard worker" is exactly the kind of thing that doesn't show up in measurables yet is critical toward evaluating a player particularly in the context of commiting huge dollars to them upfront.

That's why NFL teams conduct, on average, 300 interviews during the Combine and have teams of private investigators looking into all aspects of a prospects personal life.

Clearly they haven't perfected the process of evaluating the information they come in contact with yet but that doesn't mean it's not highly valuable. Ask NFL coaches, particularly the ones who don't have final say on personnel, what attitude and work ethic can do to a team's win/loss record.

 

[Jiggyonthehut]

I find the knocks on Branch a bit exaggerated.

People seem to be forgeting his impressive combine workout he put on just a few weeks ago. He showed up at 324, a little lighter than most expected, ran a very impressive 40 and put up reps that surprised many. The knock was on his work ethic- but clearly he has kept himself in good enough shape this offseason. His attitude may be a concern, but he seemed earnest enough to declare his intent to want to be a 3-4 DE, and seems to enjoy the game more than most give him credit for.

Sure the enitre Michigan lineage hasn't lived up to their billing but theres just too much solid film on this guy to pass him up. Nobody wants a guy with questionable work ethic but its something that can be worked on, as opposed to instincts and natural size, both of which Branch has. I wont try and say he will be a dominant 4-3 NT as I think he may have some trouble with double teams in the NFL, but I will say that IMHO, he is the best 3-4 DE in this class still and that spot suits his strengths moreso than just a big body in the middle. He's got some natural pass-rushing skills and has repeatedly stated that he would be more effective going one-on-one with OT's.

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. In no scenario do I see him slipping past Mike Nolan and the niners at pick #11. In fact, rumors are surfacing about the Niner's wanting to trade up and grab him.

People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. In no scenario do I see him slipping past Mike Nolan and the niners at pick #11. In fact, rumors are surfacing about the Niner's wanting to trade up and grab him.

I'm sure the Vikes would be happy to oblige.

 

[Jason Wood]

Carriker is an interesting juxtaposition with Branch actually. Carriker seems to be gaining momentum for reasons like "worth ethic" and "attitude" and you're hearing how he never took a play off on game tape; even though he's not necessairly the more technically sound or athletically gifted of the DTs.

 

[Jiggyonthehut]

Carriker is an interesting juxtaposition with Branch actually. Carriker seems to be gaining momentum for reasons like "worth ethic" and "attitude" and you're hearing how he never took a play off on game tape; even though he's not necessairly the more technically sound or athletically gifted of the DTs.

Hi Jason, thats exactly the way I see it as well- and it seems almost a bit ridiculous. The point of the draft is to adress a need with the best avalible PLAYER at a certain position. While we see scenarios where players fall because of trouble with the law, academics, etc, there is really nothing but an unsubstantiated rumor that Branch lacks work ethic. On the contrary, it seemed he has done real well to keep himself at the athletic level he was at during the combine. Branch's attitude may come off as a bit too relaxed, but it seems to be he's quite pumped up to be playing DE in the NFL. As for the 'taking plays off knock', I can understand that players, especially those in college looking to sell themselves at the next level, like tangible results to back their level of plays. If I were being swallowed by two enormous interior linemen on a play-by-play basis, I would certainly be frustrated that I couldnt do anything tangible to help the team. However, I see that more as a desire to make the big play rather than lacking a sound work ethic. Which is why Branch would be perfect as a 3-4 DE.In the end, teams draft for players for what they bring to the playing field, not how well they sell themselves.

 

[Jason Wood]

Carriker is an interesting juxtaposition with Branch actually. Carriker seems to be gaining momentum for reasons like "worth ethic" and "attitude" and you're hearing how he never took a play off on game tape; even though he's not necessairly the more technically sound or athletically gifted of the DTs.

Hi Jason, thats exactly the way I see it as well- and it seems almost a bit ridiculous. The point of the draft is to adress a need with the best avalible PLAYER at a certain position. While we see scenarios where players fall because of trouble with the law, academics, etc, there is really nothing but an unsubstantiated rumor that Branch lacks work ethic. On the contrary, it seemed he has done real well to keep himself at the athletic level he was at during the combine. Branch's attitude may come off as a bit too relaxed, but it seems to be he's quite pumped up to be playing DE in the NFL. As for the 'taking plays off knock', I can understand that players, especially those in college looking to sell themselves at the next level, like tangible results to back their level of plays. If I were being swallowed by two enormous interior linemen on a play-by-play basis, I would certainly be frustrated that I couldnt do anything tangible to help the team. However, I see that more as a desire to make the big play rather than lacking a sound work ethic. Which is why Branch would be perfect as a 3-4 DE.

In the end, teams draft for players for what they bring to the playing field, not how well they sell themselves.

Hey nshelat,Just wanted to follow up on the bolded part. I'm not saying you're wrong, but I also don't know that you're right. It's entirely plausible that Michigan coaches and other teammates could have corroborated this stigma about Branch as teams perform due diligence on him. I haven't read any stories citing that as a source, but we can't rule it out either.

 

[massraider]

In the last couple of drafts, I've noticed that once defensive tackles start falling, they REALLY fall.

That's an excellent point, and it shouldn't surprise anyone. If you go over the drafts from the last 10 years, there aren't too many teams that haven't got burned by falling in love with the athletically gifted 320-plus pounder. I think these 300 pound basketball-dunking freaks started showing up in the early 90's.Here's some names:Sean GilbertChester McGlocktonDan WilkinsonDaryl GardnerDarrell RussellGerard WarrenRyan SimsAlbert HaynesworthDeWayne Robertson Johnathan SullivanNow, those aren't ALL the DT busts from the past 18 drafts, and some have even had decent careers (Gardner, Haynesworth). But those are all guys I can specifically remember pre-draft marveling at their freaky athletic abilities. The Raiders have been burned twice by these type of guys, so maybe I'm just more sensitive to it. And for a lot of these DT's, they can put it together for a year or two, and then fall apart. Or it take s a few years, and teams, for the light to go on.I think if teams starts to think this guy is a little soft, there's a decent amount of history they wouldn't want to repeat.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Second, so you're going to cherry pick a guy and use that as an argument that teams should take first round chances on guys with questionable character/work ethic? I bet you I can come up with 5 flops for every one success story you can post - and I'm being very easy on you with that number.

You can come up with 5 flops for every one success story for guys with good character/work ethic. What's your point?You said guys that don't work hard:

Guys like that are just not going to make it in this league.

It took me 2 seconds to think of a guy who didn't work hard and made it. What's worse is that he wasn't even a first round pick. Sure being a hard worker is a good characteristic, but it's not the end all be all.

It may not be the end all be all, but naming one guy doesn't invalidate the point. Desire and work ethic, inm my opinion, are far more important than athletic talent. Guys who don't take the game seriously not only almost always fail to realize their potential, but also are more succeptible to injury, more likely to get into trouble off the field, etc. Give me the guy who eats, sleeps and breathes football and works his butt off every day of the week.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I think "not being a hard worker" is exactly the kind of thing that doesn't show up in measurables yet is critical toward evaluating a player particularly in the context of commiting huge dollars to them upfront.That's why NFL teams conduct, on average, 300 interviews during the Combine and have teams of private investigators looking into all aspects of a prospects personal life. Clearly they haven't perfected the process of evaluating the information they come in contact with yet but that doesn't mean it's not highly valuable. Ask NFL coaches, particularly the ones who don't have final say on personnel, what attitude and work ethic can do to a team's win/loss record.

Precisely.

 

[Marc Faletti]

If I recall correctly, Shaun Rogers fell into the 2nd in '01 for the same reasons Alan Branch is falling: 1) doubts about work ethic, and 2) doubts about team situation.

I fail to grasp how _all_ Michigan guys could be falling at once due to the latter; if they're all overrated, then how were they helping each other look good?

As to the work ethic, though, I think its a totally legit criticism. It could be his undoing. But I like Branch like I liked Rogers -- they're both rare big men with explosiveness, and I think if you have a staff who knows how to light a fire under a guy, Branch is worth a high pick.

 

[massraider]

But I like Branch like I liked Rogers -- they're both rare big men with explosiveness, and I think if you have a staff who knows how to light a fire under a guy, Branch is worth a high pick.

That's the thing, I think teams are realizing they may do just as well, if not better, with some hard-working DT with less athletic ability.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

 

[Jiggyonthehut]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

 

[BGP]

The thing I've always wondered about is why NFL players even have a work ethic to begin with. These people get utterly taken advantage of in the college game. They make the colleges millions of dollars, but just get an opportunity to get a degree and perhaps that will pay off down the road. There is no guarantee of a NFL contract for them. I can fully understand how after going through the garbage system that is NCAA football, they would just take that signing bonus in the NFL and not even try, disgusted by a horrible and unethical system.

 

[Cookiemonster]

I watched quite a bit of Michigan football this year, and Branch was CONSISTANTLY the best player on the field. People say that his production didn't equal his talent, but I question what the standard of "production" is. If you are talking #'s, then no. What I saw though was a very large man getting penetration on many, many plays. He wasn't always making the tackle or getting the sack, but so many times he would cause a RB to take the play backside after Branch collapsed the play-side or incomplete passes from QB hurries. You don't collect stats for those plays, but that doesn't take away from productivity in my opinion. I don't think he's a top 10 like some early projections had him, but he should not fall past 20-25. As a Steeler fan myself, I would not be bummed at all to get him at #15. In fact, he may be a perfect fit as a 3-4 end that can transition to a 4-3 DT in Pitt.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

A 3-4 end isn't usually a pass rush specialist. A guy like Aaron Smith in Pittsburgh or Richard Seymour in New England are more run stoppers than they are pass rushers. You don't have to be a natural pass rusher as much as you need enough quickness to collapse the running lane and make stops or force the runner farther outside where the run support can clean him up. Carriker, IMO, is a much better fit as a 3-4 end, while I believe Branch is far too slow and big to play end in a 3-4 and is much better suited to play the nose in a 3-4 or the DT spot in a 4-3. Just my opinion..

 

[Bob Henry]

I watched quite a bit of Michigan football this year, and Branch was CONSISTANTLY the best player on the field. People say that his production didn't equal his talent, but I question what the standard of "production" is. If you are talking #'s, then no. What I saw though was a very large man getting penetration on many, many plays. He wasn't always making the tackle or getting the sack, but so many times he would cause a RB to take the play backside after Branch collapsed the play-side or incomplete passes from QB hurries. You don't collect stats for those plays, but that doesn't take away from productivity in my opinion. I don't think he's a top 10 like some early projections had him, but he should not fall past 20-25. As a Steeler fan myself, I would not be bummed at all to get him at #15. In fact, he may be a perfect fit as a 3-4 end that can transition to a 4-3 DT in Pitt.

As a UM fan who watches every game, this is an accurate statement. That's not to takeaway from Leon Hall and other talented players on UM's defense, but Branch is a man-child. I could see him playing DT or DE in a 4-3 depending on the down, distance and package on the field. He could also be a devastating DE in the 3-4 alignment.

The work ethic concerns could be valid, I'm not a part of the team and have no way to confirm them either.. but I know this kid has a ton of potential and ability. Even if he plays to 70% of his potential his unique combination of size, speed and athletic ability makes him a SUPER intriguing pick if he falls out of the top 20.

I like the Shaun Rogers comparison. Same concerns, less the injury thing Rogers had going into the draft, but if he goes to a team like Pittsburgh, NE, Miami, Houston, etc after falling then I think that team will be getting a heckuva bargain and a great person to for their DL to build around.

This is just my opinion of course.. I'd love to see him fall into the Lions lap at the top of th 2nd if he does indeed fall that far.. I just don't see it happening though.

 

[Jiggyonthehut]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

A 3-4 end isn't usually a pass rush specialist. A guy like Aaron Smith in Pittsburgh or Richard Seymour in New England are more run stoppers than they are pass rushers. You don't have to be a natural pass rusher as much as you need enough quickness to collapse the running lane and make stops or force the runner farther outside where the run support can clean him up. Carriker, IMO, is a much better fit as a 3-4 end, while I believe Branch is far too slow and big to play end in a 3-4 and is much better suited to play the nose in a 3-4 or the DT spot in a 4-3. Just my opinion..

Sure, I understand the primary role of a 3-4 DE, and Im quite confident that matched one-on-one with an OT, Branch can penetrate on a frequent basis and get to the ball carrier. OTOH, taking for example New England's other 3-4 DE Ty Warren- it can be very helpful to have pass-rushing skills in one's repoire. At his size, the ability to penetrate is a very useful one regardless of where he lines up. However, I see your point here- there isnt a lot of precedent for a 330 lb DE in the NFL. While Carriker may seem to be a better fit, I think Branch has the versatility to kick inside and play NT situationally, making him a more attractive option. Sticking him at NT full time, OTOH, would not be utilizing his strenghts to the maximum. However, I hear the Niners arent too pleased with their current NT options. By getting a NT in the draft or via the FA period, they could be in the market for a pure 3-4 DE, thus making a case for Carriker. EDIT: I hear Nolan is pleased with Aubrayo Frankin and brought him in because of their time in Baltimore together. I guess we'll see.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

A 3-4 end isn't usually a pass rush specialist. A guy like Aaron Smith in Pittsburgh or Richard Seymour in New England are more run stoppers than they are pass rushers. You don't have to be a natural pass rusher as much as you need enough quickness to collapse the running lane and make stops or force the runner farther outside where the run support can clean him up. Carriker, IMO, is a much better fit as a 3-4 end, while I believe Branch is far too slow and big to play end in a 3-4 and is much better suited to play the nose in a 3-4 or the DT spot in a 4-3. Just my opinion..

Sure, I understand the primary role of a 3-4 DE, and Im quite confident that matched one-on-one with an OT, Branch can penetrate on a frequent basis and get to the ball carrier. OTOH, taking for example New England's other 3-4 DE Ty Warren- it can be very helpful to have pass-rushing skills in one's repoire. At his size, the ability to penetrate is a very useful one regardless of where he lines up. However, I see your point here- there isnt a lot of precedent for a 330 lb DE in the NFL. While Carriker may seem to be a better fit, I think Branch has the versatility to kick inside and play NT situationally, making him a more attractive option. Sticking him at NT full time, OTOH, would not be utilizing his strenghts to the maximum. However, I hear the Niners arent too pleased with their current NT options. By getting a NT in the draft or via the FA period, they could be in the market for a pure 3-4 DE, thus making a case for Carriker. EDIT: I hear Nolan is pleased with Aubrayo Frankin and brought him in because of their time in Baltimore together. I guess we'll see.

Don't get me wrong, I would love to see Branch in Pittsburgh if the coaching staff is suitably convinced that he has the work ethic requisite to NFL success... I just think, and it's simply my opinion, that his size/speed package is better suited to plying inside the tackle. I could be wrong.

 

[Marc Faletti]

I find it odd that, on the game tape alone, he was a highly ranked prospect, and rose even higher after the combine, but just because he h'es said a few quirky things in the interview process and got frustrated in one drill he's suddenly plummeting.

If he tore it up for Michigan -- he looked like a fairly consistent disruptive force to me, and based on the comments above, apparently to the people who watched Michigan the most -- then why would you doubt that he would keep trying in the pros?

There are suddenly rumblings that game tape shows him loafing, but I wanna see any entire game where one got the impression he was letting his team down. Whatever game that was, I didn't see it.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Sounds like the same nit-picking that happened to Haloti Ngata last year.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

We just had Matt Miller from New Era Scouting on the audible, and he said Branch did indeed show up for his pro day somewhat out of shape, and that is part of why his stock is ever so slightly slipping - but out of the top 10 as opposed to out of the first round.

 

[Marc Faletti]

I get that, but I'd wager any team who lucks into him outside of the top 10 will see a surprising reduction in their rushing yards allowed, a number which usually translates into more wins.

If I needed a DT, I can't imagine passing on the kid, simple as that. He was never in terrible shape at Michigan, and while it's always a risk with guys over 300lbs, I fail to see how playing football full-time, working with the best conditioning coaches in the world, and being able to afford a chef, etc., will make his pro weight issues _worse_ than college.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

A 3-4 end isn't usually a pass rush specialist. A guy like Aaron Smith in Pittsburgh or Richard Seymour in New England are more run stoppers than they are pass rushers. You don't have to be a natural pass rusher as much as you need enough quickness to collapse the running lane and make stops or force the runner farther outside where the run support can clean him up. Carriker, IMO, is a much better fit as a 3-4 end, while I believe Branch is far too slow and big to play end in a 3-4 and is much better suited to play the nose in a 3-4 or the DT spot in a 4-3. Just my opinion..

Sure, I understand the primary role of a 3-4 DE, and Im quite confident that matched one-on-one with an OT, Branch can penetrate on a frequent basis and get to the ball carrier. OTOH, taking for example New England's other 3-4 DE Ty Warren- it can be very helpful to have pass-rushing skills in one's repoire. At his size, the ability to penetrate is a very useful one regardless of where he lines up. However, I see your point here- there isnt a lot of precedent for a 330 lb DE in the NFL. While Carriker may seem to be a better fit, I think Branch has the versatility to kick inside and play NT situationally, making him a more attractive option. Sticking him at NT full time, OTOH, would not be utilizing his strenghts to the maximum. However, I hear the Niners arent too pleased with their current NT options. By getting a NT in the draft or via the FA period, they could be in the market for a pure 3-4 DE, thus making a case for Carriker. EDIT: I hear Nolan is pleased with Aubrayo Frankin and brought him in because of their time in Baltimore together. I guess we'll see.

Don't get me wrong, I would love to see Branch in Pittsburgh if the coaching staff is suitably convinced that he has the work ethic requisite to NFL success... I just think, and it's simply my opinion, that his size/speed package is better suited to plying inside the tackle. I could be wrong.

GRIN, I usually love and agree with everything you say , but you're off on him. He is stronger and just as quick as A.Smith. He's obviously got a lot to learn before he reaches that level, but he would make an excellent 3-4 end. I'm even more in favor of this pick if Tomlin does indeed transition to a 4-3 as he could certainly be even better as a DT. As for a 3-4 DE not being a pass rusher, it was only a couple years ago that Smith was the 'Burgh's sack leader. A 3-4 DE does need to be primarily a run stopper, but should be fairly agile. I've always seen the 3-4 DE as a pass rushing 4-3 DT. Carriker would make me happy too, but to land a guy like Branch would make me giddy. Carriker is a little more athletic and could serve as a strong-side DE in a 4-3, but I believe Branch would be an even more dominant DT than Carriker would be DE in a 4-3 (something of a J.Henderson). If Pitt IS NOT going to a 4-3, then I think it's a wash as Carriker reminds me more of Smith and would PROBABLY be a slightly better 3-4 end over the years.

 

[Cecil Lammey]

Bloom, Cec and everyone else that is zeroed in on the draft this year, I just happened to glance at Mel Kiper's new top 25 and see that Alan Branch has fallen out of it. While I knew that Branch had been falling in some eyes due to his interview process and some work ethic issues, I was stunned to see his star has fallen so far.Questions for you:1) Is Kiper being aggressive here or is Branch now considered a fringe 1st rounder by most pundits?2) What do YOU think of Branch; are people overreacting [it seems we have those players each year that teams talk themselves out of only to regret it later]3) Any detail on why Branch is falling beyond the ethereal "bad interviews"?TIA,Woodrow

Wood-1) Kiper is overreacting. I think his analysis has turned into more of a "must beat Mike Mayock" attitude, than a "this is what I see" one. As with most things ESPN these days it's about "breaking the story" "controversy" and "fluff". 2) I like Alan Branch and feel that he is a top 15 talent. He will more than likely fall past the #10 spot, but whatever team drafts him will get good value. Branch has great size, but what I like most about him are his instincts for disrupting a play, his freakish athleticism, and his willingness to play while banged up. Teams that are in need of a DT, and pass on Branch, will regret it later.3) he's a little out of shape and doesn't "wow" teams in the interview process. His job is to create havoc, and teams don't want their "big uglies" to be Mr. Personality.

 

[The Jacket]

Guys like Gabe Watson, at any point, were never considered in the same league with Alan Branch.

He'll be gone within 11 picks, no doubt.

 

[Jason Wood]

Muchas Cec..!

 

[Andy Dufresne]

His competition to be the #1 DT off the board had a nice Pro-Day and has had an excellent post-season.

Link

Okoye takes run at U of L Pro Day

Had better 40 time than at combine

By Brian Bennett

bbennett@courier-journal.com

The Courier-Journal

Amobi Okoye didn't have a lot to prove to the representatives from all 32 NFL teams who were in town yesterday for the University of Louisville's annual Pro Day.

The 19-year-old defensive tackle is a consensus top-15 pick in the April 28 draft, someone whose stock didn't figure to rise much no matter what he did for the scouts at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. But Okoye said he wanted to prove something to himself.

"I'm a competitor, so I went out there," he said.

Okoye tweaked one of his hamstrings while running the 40-yard dash at last month's NFL combine, leading to a somewhat disappointing time of 5.07 seconds. He said his hamstring still wasn't 100 percent yesterday, but he ran the 40 again and did it in 4.85 seconds.

"I was trying to break 4.7, but I'll take it," said Okoye, who weighed in at 305 pounds.

The scouts and team officials leaned forward a little more when Okoye took the field to go through drills with defensive tackle Zach Anderson. The other 10 U of L seniors who worked out hoped to catch as many eyes as possible, too.

Running back Kolby Smith ran the 40 in 4.51 seconds, which he said was the same time he posted at the combine. He earned an invitation to the Senior Bowl after the season and is angling to become a mid- to late-round pick.

"I just want to show them that I can do everything that's asked of me," he said. "Show them you're coachable, that's the most important thing."

Linebacker Nate Harris said he thought his combine workout went a little better than yesterday's. The drills can be a little nerve-wracking, but he said the players are used to it.

"It's pretty comparable to a big-time game, and we played in a lot of big-time games," Harris said. "It was kind of a comfort zone being back at school. You've just got to come out here and perform well."

The open audition was even more important to those who didn't get invited to the combine or a postseason all-star game. Fullback Deriontae Taylor went around the field passing out envelopes containing DVDs of himself in action.

The crowd included some familiar faces, such as former U of L assistants Paul Petrino, Kevin Wolthausen and Mike Summers, all of whom joined ex-Cardinals coach Bobby Petrino with the Atlanta Falcons this year. Wolthausen conducted the drills with the defensive linemen he used to coach.

That included Okoye, who might be a millionaire in a month but still wanted to show his worth.

"It's just like they're trying to look through a microscope and look deeper," he said of the draft evaluation process. "I'm just out here giving them all of me. The last couple of months have been quite exciting, going out there and proving to yourself that you are what you are, that you're a high pick and somebody should take a chance on you."

 

[whoknew]

In the little bit that I saw him play this year, I wasn't all that impressed.

Are you serious about this? He was DOMINANT for Michigan this year and the main reason they had such a great run D.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

In the little bit that I saw him play this year, I wasn't all that impressed.

Are you serious about this? He was DOMINANT for Michigan this year and the main reason they had such a great run D.

Like I said, it was only a little bit.And since I've always been more interested in the offensive side of the ball, even when a defensive lineman IS being dominant, I don't notice it.

I'm not the player-evaluation guy. I'll leave that to Bloom, Chaos Commish, JWood, etc. So when I give an opinion on specifics of a particular player's performance, it's to be taken with a grain of salt.

 

[whoknew]

In the little bit that I saw him play this year, I wasn't all that impressed.

Are you serious about this? He was DOMINANT for Michigan this year and the main reason they had such a great run D.

Like I said, it was only a little bit.And since I've always been more interested in the offensive side of the ball, even when a defensive lineman IS being dominant, I don't notice it.

I'm not the player-evaluation guy. I'll leave that to Bloom, Chaos Commish, JWood, etc. So when I give an opinion on specifics of a particular player's performance, it's to be taken with a grain of salt.

I hear you. I'm not an expert in player evaluation either -- I'm just a huge MI fan and saw him a ton. I've no idea what the NFL thinks of him, but I do know he was a dominant, dominant player for MI.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I hear you. I'm not an expert in player evaluation either -- I'm just a huge MI fan and saw him a ton. I've no idea what the NFL thinks of him, but I do know he was a dominant, dominant player for MI.

I think the NFL likes him and all this talk about him slipping to the later part of the 1st round is BS.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Carriker seems a bit undersized as a 3-4 DE and I'd be concerned that his athleticism, as shown by the combine , mirrors that of Branch- who is a full 30 pounds heavier. People seem to forget that Okoye would NOT be as effective in a 3-4 nor would he be able to play 4-3 NT.

Carriker is 6'6" 296 - that's ideal, prototypical size for a 3-4 end. Where I would be concerned about his size is at 4-3 DT, but the scouts are convinced he's strong enough to play that spot as well. I don't think their athleticism is even close... IIRC, Branch ran a ~5.1 at the combine in the 40 and chose to stand on that # even though Michigan's Pro Day was run on an ultra fast track. Carriker, by contrast, ran a 4.70 and 4.72. At 300 lbs, that's pretty damned quick, and far better than Branch. In addition, Carriker timed a 7.06 in the three-cone, which was the 2nd fastest time recorded at the combine FOR a DL, better than possible OLB converts like Gaines Adams, Anthony Spencer, and Quentin Moses. He would have made the top 10 with that time among the LB group, so that's pretty solid. His 33.5" vertical leap was among the top 10 for DL as well. I think he's far more athletic than Branch.Also, there is no NT in a 4-3 scheme, and I believe the thinking is that Okoye might be a bit undersized to play 3-4 nose right now, but they believe he can and will carry an extra 15-20 lbs from his current 290 by September and eventually would be an excellent NT, due to his low center of gravity.

Keep in mind, on a control track such as the one at the combine, the following times were recorded:Branch: 5.07Carriker: 4.90In fact, Branch had the fastest time out of all DT's over 300, only 2 of 14 had a faster time- by literally hundreths of a second. He also put up the same # of reps and did not participate in cone drills and such. Perhaps Carriker has better lateral speed but Branch's athleticism cannot be denied. Especially as a 3-4 DE, I like Branch alot more. He has a more natural pass-rushing techinique and is going to demand more attention given his size (weight). Comparing Carriker and Branch is essentially useless, as only Branch has the size to kick inside and play NT in a 3-4 making him much more valuable to teams like San Fran, whose decision may boil down to Carriker or Branch. PS: Im not saying that Branch can handle a full time NT role, but certainly his size indicates that at least, he will be given the chance to do so on a situational basis. He doesnt really handle double team real well so...

A 3-4 end isn't usually a pass rush specialist. A guy like Aaron Smith in Pittsburgh or Richard Seymour in New England are more run stoppers than they are pass rushers. You don't have to be a natural pass rusher as much as you need enough quickness to collapse the running lane and make stops or force the runner farther outside where the run support can clean him up. Carriker, IMO, is a much better fit as a 3-4 end, while I believe Branch is far too slow and big to play end in a 3-4 and is much better suited to play the nose in a 3-4 or the DT spot in a 4-3. Just my opinion..

Sure, I understand the primary role of a 3-4 DE, and Im quite confident that matched one-on-one with an OT, Branch can penetrate on a frequent basis and get to the ball carrier. OTOH, taking for example New England's other 3-4 DE Ty Warren- it can be very helpful to have pass-rushing skills in one's repoire. At his size, the ability to penetrate is a very useful one regardless of where he lines up. However, I see your point here- there isnt a lot of precedent for a 330 lb DE in the NFL. While Carriker may seem to be a better fit, I think Branch has the versatility to kick inside and play NT situationally, making him a more attractive option. Sticking him at NT full time, OTOH, would not be utilizing his strenghts to the maximum. However, I hear the Niners arent too pleased with their current NT options. By getting a NT in the draft or via the FA period, they could be in the market for a pure 3-4 DE, thus making a case for Carriker. EDIT: I hear Nolan is pleased with Aubrayo Frankin and brought him in because of their time in Baltimore together. I guess we'll see.

Don't get me wrong, I would love to see Branch in Pittsburgh if the coaching staff is suitably convinced that he has the work ethic requisite to NFL success... I just think, and it's simply my opinion, that his size/speed package is better suited to plying inside the tackle. I could be wrong.

GRIN, I usually love and agree with everything you say , but you're off on him. He is stronger and just as quick as A.Smith. He's obviously got a lot to learn before he reaches that level, but he would make an excellent 3-4 end. I'm even more in favor of this pick if Tomlin does indeed transition to a 4-3 as he could certainly be even better as a DT. As for a 3-4 DE not being a pass rusher, it was only a couple years ago that Smith was the 'Burgh's sack leader. A 3-4 DE does need to be primarily a run stopper, but should be fairly agile. I've always seen the 3-4 DE as a pass rushing 4-3 DT. Carriker would make me happy too, but to land a guy like Branch would make me giddy. Carriker is a little more athletic and could serve as a strong-side DE in a 4-3, but I believe Branch would be an even more dominant DT than Carriker would be DE in a 4-3 (something of a J.Henderson). If Pitt IS NOT going to a 4-3, then I think it's a wash as Carriker reminds me more of Smith and would PROBABLY be a slightly better 3-4 end over the years.

I wasn't saying I'd rather have Carriker, only that I thought Carriker was more of a prototypical 3-4 DE, while I thought Branch was better suited to tackle. I'd be happy with either guy on the Steelers.Carriker didn't run a great 40 at the combine, but cranked out back to back 4.7s at the Nebraska Pro Day. In either event, he has 4.8ish speed, let's say, which I think is good for a 3-4 end. Maybe I'm wrong on Branch's prospects as a 3-4 end... I haven't seen him play all that much, but I just didn't think he was quick enough to get around NFL tackles to get sacks on plays where they rush the ends (as you say, Smith did lead the team in sacks a few years ago strictly as a situational pass rusher) and I'm not sure if he has the lateral quickness to run down a ball carrier and make stops in the backfield on this level. Carriker's times in the three-cone were excellent, proving he has good lateral quickness, which is far more important for a 3-4 end than straight line speed (40 yard.)Branch definitely has the upside to be more dominant at DT than Carriker will be at DE, I just thought Carriker was a better fit at DE and with his ability to move inside (again, the scouts are more sold on Carriker's ability at DT than I am) that his versatility might make him more attractive to the Steelers. Tomlin came right out and said yesterday that they're sticking with the base 3-4, so maybe their drafting style won't be as different as I expect.