DYNASTY: 2012 Top college prospects (2 Viewers)

[Faust]

Ten high-profile prospects with pivotal pro days

By Charley Casserly NFL.com

Analyst

March and April are the "fine tuning" months in NFL draft preparation.

There are two main objectives in the spring:

1) Deciphering between closely rated players.

2) Completing the "needs" list on each prospect of interest.

In my years with the Washington Redskins and Houston Texans, we would have a draft board set in February, and it included "needs" beside each player we were interested in. "Needs" were the areas of a player's game in which we strived to gather more information in the spring. For example, some cornerbacks primarily play zone coverage in college, so you need to see them performing man-coverage drills. There are always character questions raised by scouts in the fall that you must get nailed down. And some players don't run at the NFL Scouting Combine, so you must gather speed readings at their pro days.

Pro days aren't just reserved for superstars, either. All seniors who want to put their talents on display show up. Many players who aren't invited to the combine participate in pro days, and some are drafted or signed as free agents. Pro days really offer an opportunity to complete evaluations on a draft class.

And also, pro days provide opportunities to interview players. At the combine, teams face time/player limits on the interviewing front, so this additional time is invaluable. I always encouraged my scouts to spend time with the lower-rated players to develop a rapport and gain an edge in signing them as free agents.

But of course, eyes remain fixed on the marquee names. Here are 10 highly rated prospects (in alphabetical order), and how I'd approach each player's pro day:

Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State: The Ohio State left tackle didn't play up to expectations in 2011. Question him on it. Watch tape with him.

Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State: Blackmon was limited at the combine with a tender hamstring and didn't run the 40. Time him. As a projected top-10 pick, Blackmon needs to fill in all the blanks of his evaluation.

Michael Brockers, DT, LSU: Brockers is raw. Drill him in pass rushing, as he must improve in this area. Can he do it?

Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU: Claiborne averaged 4.52 on my watch at the combine. You would like the draft's top-rated cornerback to run faster than that, so I'd eagerly await his pro-day 40.

Quinton Coples, DL, UNC: I would really challenge him in drills. I'd also watch 2011 tape with him and ask him to explain his lack of intensity at times.

Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech: Hill ran very well in Indy with a blazing 4.36 40, and he also caught the ball better than scouts anticipated. I would still focus on his hands at the pro day to see just how good they are. I'd also pay close attention to his execution of the route tree, because he ran very few routes in Georgia Tech's triple-option offense.

Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama: I thought his workout in Indy was monotone. You want to see more explosion and suddenness from a top-rated corner.

Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama: Minor knee surgery kept Richardson from competing in combine drills. Like Blackmon, this is a guy who needs to fill in all the blanks at his pro day. His 40-yard dash will be interesting.

Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida: Robinson certainly opened some eyes with the combine's fastest 40 time at 4.33. (He ran in the 4.20s by my watch.) Now everyone needs to go back and look at the tape (especially the East Carolina game). Is his play speed -- which has been questioned by some -- as fast as his track speed?

Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M: If you are a team needing a quarterback, you'll spend a lot of time assessing Tannehill in the next couple months. His workout obviously looms large. Two areas I'd focus on: 1) His ball placement on throws (i.e. accuracy); and 2) his pre-throw ball pat. Can you cure him of this? It telegraphs his throws, but other NFL QBs have done it. And this is definitely somebody you want to watch tape with, to gauge his mental comprehension.

 

[Faust]

RB Stock Report: Wilson looks like No. 2 back after combine

By Chad Reuter NFL.com

There is no doubt that NFL teams are finding it more and more difficult to justify using a first-round selection on a running back -- even if an RB's physical attributes and running vision make him one of the 32 most talented players in a draft class.

Only seven NFL running backs eclipsed the 1,200-yard threshold during the 2011 season, the fewest since 1997. Just one of those backs was a former first-round pick. And that back, Seattle Seahawks beast Marshawn Lynch, did not even accumulate his 1,204 yards with the team that drafted him (Buffalo took him 12th overall in the 2007 NFL Draft).

Despite missing NFL Scouting Combine workouts due to minor knee surgery, Alabama running back Trent Richardson will still come off the board in Round 1. But the next running back very well may have to wait until the draft's second day (Round 2). Regardless, look for a couple of the players listed below to become workhorse backs (at least in 2012 NFL terms) after fine efforts at this year's combine.

David Wilson, Virginia Tech: Wilson and fellow underclassman Lamar Miller (Miami) were considered to be fighting for the No. 2 slot on the RB board heading into the combine. And while Miller's 4.40 40 confirmed the home-run speed scouts figured he had, Wilson ran well himself (4.49), put up one of the top vertical leaps in recent combine memory (41 inches) and led the running backs in the broad jump (11 feet). If scouts truly use workouts as a tiebreaker between similar prospects, the 2011 ACC Player of the Year just might be the first back after Richardson to hear his name called at Radio City Music Hall.

Draft projection: Second round.

Doug Martin, Boise State: Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore deservedly receives a lot of credit for his team's 50-3 record over the past four seasons, but Martin ran for 3,324 yards and scored 47 touchdowns for the Broncos over the past three years. His stout, 5-foot-9 1/4, 223-pound frame allowed him to push up 28 reps in the bench press, but did not prevent him from running a solid 4.55 40 and performing very well in quickness tests (he finished second to 180-pounder Chris Rainey among running backs in the three-cone drill). The performance may put him in the same category -- or above -- the Wilson/Miller duo on some teams' boards.

Draft projection: Second round.

LaMichael James, Oregon: Speed has never been an issue for James, the nation's leader in rush yards per game in each of the past two seasons. But the fact that he ran a 4.45 40 and excelled in other drills at 194 pounds -- not the 185 some scouts expected him to weigh -- certainly helped his draft stock. If teams think James can keep his weight around 200 pounds and maintain that open-field burst, they may consider him a solid No. 2 option instead of a pure change-of-pace back at the next level.

Draft projection: Third round.

Robert Turbin, Utah State: It was no surprise that this freight train of a back (5-10, 222 pounds) lifted 225 pounds 28 times, tying Martin for the lead in the position group. But seeing that bulk run a 4.50 40, as well as post a 36-inch vertical leap and a 10-foot-2 broad jump, certainly grabbed scouts' attention. The two-time 1,000-yard rusher (2009 and 2011, with a torn ACL taking away his 2010 season) did look tight in the hips catching passes and was only average in short-area agility, but teams looking for a one-cut back will overlook those shortcomings because he has the potential to break off big gains.

Draft projection: Third round.

 

[Faust]

QB Stock Report: Cousins, Jefferson improve draft grades

By Chad Reuter NFL.com

NFL quarterbacks are the most scrutinized athletes in professional sports. Inherently, signal callers annually garner much of the attention at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Unfortunately, QB field work at this yearly event is not overly helpful to the hundreds of scouts in attendance. Some of the top prospects decide not to throw until their respective pro days, and the quarterbacks who do throw aren't facing any defense.

The top two quarterbacks attending the 2012 edition of the combine -- Stanford's Andrew Luck and Baylor's Robert Griffin III -- decided to hold off until March to throw for scouts, but they did not disappoint with their workouts and interviews in Indy.

And while most of the other 17 quarterbacks in Indianapolis also threw and worked out, two made positive impressions on the Lucas Oil Stadium turf that improved their draft stocks.

Without further ado, here are the four combine "winners" at the quarterback position:

Andrew Luck, Stanford: The 2011 Walter Camp Player of the Year measured almost exactly as Stanford's Web site listed him (6-foot-4, 234 pounds) and also met expectations in his other measurements (like his 10-inch hands). And though scouts knew he was a very good athlete, he exceeded expectations in the workout portion: 4.67 40-yard dash, 36-inch vertical leap, 10-foot-4 broad jump, 4.28 20-yard shuttle and 6.80 three-cone. So although the prohibitive No. 1 pick didn't throw, his combine performance somehow still managed to improve his draft stock.

Draft projection: First overall pick.

Robert Griffin III, Baylor: The reigning Heisman Trophy winner's 4.41 40-yard dash made headlines, and his 39-inch vertical and 10-foot broad jump (which could have been further if he had lowered his trajectory) simply confirmed the former track star's superior athleticism. But his most important numbers may have come from the measuring tape during the weigh-in; his official height of 6-2 3/8 is an inch or two higher than many scouts expected. Now that size is no longer an issue (he was a solid 223 pounds), the Browns, Redskins and Dolphins could offer a king's ransom to St. Louis for the No. 2 overall selection (and the rights to RGIII).

Draft projection: Second overall pick.

Kirk Cousins, Michigan State: Cousins has never been considered a "plus" athlete, so his average test results (4.93 40, 28 1/2-inch vertical, 9-foot-1 broad jump) were no surprise. His exceptional character came through in team interviews, however, and he threw the ball as well as any of the second-tier prospects. The three-year Michigan State captain could be in the mix as a second-round pick for teams unable to land Luck, Griffin or presumptive third QB Ryan Tannehill.

Draft projection: Second round.

Jordan Jefferson, LSU: Jefferson always has had the physical attributes scouts look for at the quarterback position, as proved in Indy by his 6-4 1/8, 223-pound frame, 10 1/4-inch hands, 4.65 40-yard dash, 36 1/2-inch vertical and receiver-like 4.06 20-yard shuttle. He even put up 225 pounds 14 times on the bench press, a test most quarterbacks choose not to perform. The way the ball came out of his hand while he was throwing to receivers Sunday also reminded scouts of arm strength that can stretch defenses in a vertical attack. His game tape isn't exemplary, but the skill set he showed in Indianapolis will probably be enough to see him drafted in April -- possibly higher than some expect, due to a lack of promising mid-to-late-round quarterback prospects.

Draft projection: Fifth round.

 

[pghrob]

Based on what we saw from both Denarius Moore and Taiwan Jones during their rookie seasons, where would you peg them as far as draft position this year if they were available in a rookie /free agent only draft in a 25 player roster / 12 team ppr league with lineup of 1qb, 2rb, 2wr, 1te, 1k, 1d/st?

I would think Moore is a late 1st rounder in the range of 1.07 - 1.12 and Jones might be a 2nd round pick with Bush all but gone via FA.

Thoughts?

 

[duaneok66]

it is doubtful that Taiwan will ever be a major FF factor - if Bush leaves then they will acquire another back to fill in.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

I think you have D.Moore valued correctly; I would rank him as the #4 WR against this class, which puts him in the late 1st.

T. Jones is interesting, but probably a role player. We are looking at late 2nd value at best, IMO.

 

[MAC_32]

I'd put Denarius clearly behind Blackmon, Wright, and FLoyd but ahead of Sanu (my #4). I'd guess that's around pick 11-14 as guys like Stephen Hill, Alshon Jeffrey, and David Wilson may be picked ahead of him but I have ranked lower.

I'd put David Wilson right behind Moore and Taiwan Jones likely right behind him. When all is said and done I don't think anyone outside of Richardson, Martin, and Miller will be in a better situation to succeed than Jones and I think Jones is equally or more talented than every other back in the class. I'm not a Wilson fan, but he is going to get an opportunity. There's value in that...but he'll go in drafts long before I'm comfortable.

 

[Faust]

Scouts identify 5 underrated Combine performers

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

Now that we've had a few days to fully digest the information overload that is the annual Scouting Combine, there are a few players who haven't received enough attention for strong efforts, according to my conversations with league personnel.

Every Combine conversation I've had with scouts has started with the obvious workout warriors -- Memphis defensive tackle Dontari Poe, Georgia Tech wideout Stephen Hill, Central Florida cornerback Josh Robinson and other, similarly well-publicized athletes. Considering their spectacular performances, it isn't surprising to see their stocks get a bump.

According to scouts. there are plenty of others flying under the national radar whose workouts helped solidify their grades. These are five who were mentioned multiple times.

ILB Tank Carder, TCU: Much like Boston College's Luke Kuechly, Carder has been type-cast as an instinctive, high-motor defender throughout his career but the two-time defending Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year proved to be a much better all-around athlete at the Combine than anyone expected. The 6-2, 236 pound Carder clocked in a sub 4.70 time in the 40-yard dash (4.69 seconds officially) and demonstrated his agility in the three-cone (6.89) and short-shuttle drills (4.18) that some teams place a great deal of value in when scouting linebackers.

QB Austin Davis, Southern Miss: With NFLDraftScout.com's top four-rated quarterbacks either unable to unwilling to throw passes at the Combine, I thought one of the more fascinating elements of this year's workout would be to see which of the so-called second or third-tier passers would be able to take advantage of the extra attention. Having been one of a limited number of media members allowed inside the Lucas Oil Stadium workout for the QB workouts this year, I saw Davis pass the ball well to all levels of the field, showing surprising zip on intermediate routes and as impressive accuracy on the deep ball (a knock on his game entering the Combine) as any passer on the field.

OLB Shea McClellin, Boise State: Generally speaking, I agree with how the NFL identifies players when assigning them positions at the Combine. Several so-called 'tweeners like McClellin were asked to work out as defensive linemen. After being stunned with McClellin's progress in playing linebacker at the Senior Bowl, I was disappointed he wasn't identified as such at the Combine. His workout certainly showed off the straight-line speed (4.63) and change-of-direction skills (7.07 seconds in the three-cone drills) to handle this conversion. McClellin's speed, in fact, would have ranked him fourth among the 29 linebackers tested at the Combine -- and this is after measuring in at 6-3, 260 pounds.

RB Bernard Pierce, Temple: Pierce is one of the more interesting backs in the 2012 draft class because he's more of a finesse, zone-read back than the power option that his 6-0, 220 pound frame and school record 53 rushing touchdowns would indicate. The junior helped prove his unique athleticism with an underrated all-around performance at the Combine in which he measured in faster (4.49), quicker (7.07 seconds in the three-cone) and more explosive (123" broad jump) than some of the more highly regarded backs of this class.

CB Trevin Wade, Arizona: While officially credited with just a 4.59 time in the 40-yard dash, Wade was surprisingly cited by several league sources as having a strong Combine workout. Scouts mentioned Wade's fluidity in timed drills (4.0 seconds in the short shuttle) and position drills as more important indicators of his underrated cover-corner skills than his time in 40-yard dash. Wade was inconsistent at Arizona but finished his career on a high note with a strong senior campaign and is rated by some scouts among the top 100 prospects in the draft.

 

[Faust]

Pead, TE Robinson impress at Cincinnati Pro Day

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

Cincinnati running back Isaiah Pead elected not to run the 40-yard dash again at Cincinnati's Pro Day Friday due to the fact that he'd already clocked an impressive time a week previous at the 2012 Scouting Combine but that didn't stop him from helping his cause, according to a source on hand for the workout.

Cincinnati, like an increasing number of universities, offered a handy synopsis of the Pro Day workout on their official athletic website. According to their report, 28 of the 32 NFL teams attended the workout, which was run largely by the hometown Bengals' head coaches. Head coach Marvin Lewis was not in attendance but several assistant coaches were present, as was the team's director of player personnel, Duke Tobin. Among the other teams in attendance, I've been able to confirm that the Washington Redskins, Oakland Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, Arizona Cardinals, and Detroit Lions were among the teams represented.

Pead, who earned MVP honors in the Senior Bowl, was clocked at 4.25 seconds in the short-shuttle and 6.86 in the three-cone drill. Pead's times in these drills, designed to show burst and change-of-direction ability, were nearly a tenth faster than his times recorded in Indianapolis (4.32, 6.95) and would have ranked among the better times of all running backs tested there. According to the source, Pead also fared well catching passes out of the backfield and when fielding punts.

Pead currently ranks as NFLDraftScout.com's No. 5 running back prospect of the 2012 draft.

While Pead was certainly the biggest name of Cincinnati's prospects, the player who helped his cause the most was 6-4, 264 pound tight end Adrien Robinson, who was clocked at 4.51 and 4.58 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Only Oklahoma's James Hanna (4.49) recorded a faster time in the event at the Combine than Robinson's 4.51. Demonstrating that he's an all-around athlete, Robinson also recorded a 39.5" vertical jump and a 11'3" broad jump -- each of which would have led all of the tight ends invited to the Combine this year. Robinson was not as impressive in the short-shuttle (4.37 seconds) and three-cone drill (7.11 seconds), putting up times that would have placed him in the middle of the Combine pack this year.

Considering his size and speed and the relative weak class of tight ends this year, the workout could have been enough to give Robinson a chance at being drafted. Having just emerged as a starter in 2011, Robinson was not invited to the Combine after catching just 12 passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns as a senior and just 29 for 434 and five scores over his entire career.

With Robinson's numbers less than eye-popping, he's definitely a diamond in the rough prospect; one who is currently ranked as NFLDraftScout.com's No. 39 tight end. Considering his workout, expect that ranking to improve significantly.

 

[Faust]

Charles 4.7-4-88 in 40 at windy UGA pro day

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

Georgia tight end Orson Charles ran two pedestrian 40 times at his Pro Day in Athens on Monday, but the 4.7-to-4.88 clockings in his shimmery gold track shoes won't be evaluated as "official times" because of wind gusts between 20-30 mph. Teams often adjust their individual 40 recordings based on the surface, environment (indoor/outdoor) and general weather conditions.

Charles, NFLDraftScout.com's third-ranked tight end, plays fast with good quickness off the snap and top-end speed for the position. His height and shorter arms are considered his greatest detriment, but his ceiling might be greater than top-ranked tight end Dwayne Allen (4.89 40 at the Combine) and Coby Fleener of Stanford, who didn't run in Indianapolis because of a high ankle sprain.

Charles' strength won't be a question either -- he pumped up 35 reps of 225 at the Scouting Combine.

Cornerback Brandon Boykin did 16 bench-press reps on Monday but won't run until his personal pro day on April 9. Boykin has return skills and plays bigger than his 5-9, 182-pound frame. Scouts trust his speed won't be an issue, but he's coming off an injury at the Senior Bowl.

For those looking for a flaw, Charles' blocking has been questioned, but pound for pound, there aren't many tougher than Charles in-line and he has the agility to be used in a movement-type role.

What might be questioned is the sagacity of players opting to skip running the 40 in the controlled environment and noted fast track of Lucas Oil Stadium. Charles passed on the workout with his position group nine days ago in Indianapolis. Running on that literal level-playing field would take the guesswork and projections out of Charles' true straight-line speed in the minds of scouts.

However, teams will conduct private workouts often with players and Charles will get that opportunity as a potential first-round pick and top-50 player.

Charles' first such workout is scheduled with the Philadelphia Eagles, he said Monday.

Every NFL team was represented at the workout except for Dallas and Chicago, according to Georgia's sports information staff.

 

[Faust]

Video Link:

NFL.com experts debate if Andrew Luck is a "can't-miss prospect" and if such a player exists.

 

[Faust]

WR/TE Stock Report: Floyd, Hill put on a show in Indianapolis

By Chad Reuter NFL.com

Even though NFL scouts and coaches will tell you that the 40-yard dash is overhyped as a player evaluation tool, wide receiver is one position in which pure straight-line speed can be crucial.

Big plays in the passing game are becoming more common -- 12 receivers averaged at least 17 yards a catch in 2011, up from eight in 2010 and more than double the average of 5.4 over the previous decade. This means big, fast wide receivers will be more coveted in this year's draft than they have in the past. But they aren't the only ones benefitting from the NFL's offensive explosion ...

New England's Rob Gronkowski and New Orleans' Jimmy Graham enjoyed two of the most productive seasons ever at the tight end position, finishing in the top 10 in the league in catches, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns (Gronkowski posted an NFL-high 17). Meanwhile, Brandon Pettigrew (Detroit), Tony Gonzalez (Atlanta), Aaron Hernandez (New England) and Jason Witten (Dallas) all ranked in the top 20 in receptions.

The mismatches these tight ends create in the middle of the field make them the knight to vertical receivers' rook on the gridiron chess board.

Several receivers and tight ends made an impression at last month's NFL Scouting Combine -- some with the long speed needed to blow the top of a defense and others with short-area quickness to routinely move the chains in short or moderate down-and-distance situations.

Wide receivers

Michael Floyd, Notre Dame: With Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon choosing not to run at the combine with a tender hamstring and Baylor's Kendall Wright putting up disappointing times in the 40-yard dash, Floyd took advantage of the open stage. Most scouts will tell you he doesn't play as fast as his 4.47 40, but the fact he broke the 4.5-second barrier makes it difficult for teams to consider him just a possession receiver. If Notre Dame's all-time leading receiver can convince general managers that his off-field issues are behind him, and if Blackmon runs poorly at his pro day, the difference in grades between those top two receivers will be quite slim.



Draft projection: First round.

Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech: Hill may have been the biggest "winner" on the offensive side of the ball at this year's combine, running a blazing 4.36 40 at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds. He also tied for first among all combine participants with an 11-foot-1 broad jump, tied for fifth with a 39-inch vertical and did a fine job running routes and catching passes in drills. He did finish last among receivers with a 4.48 short shuttle, but scouts will remember that Kenny Britt and Marques Colston had similar numbers in their combine workouts. Scouts are more worried about his learning curve and lack of receiving experience in Georgia Tech's option offense (he only had 14 receptions over the Yellow Jackets' last nine games of 2011), but the speed/size combo make him too intriguing a vertical threat to last beyond the top 40 selections.



Draft projection: Late-first/early-second round.

Tommy Streeter, Miami: Like Hill, Streeter burst onto the national scene as a play-making junior (17.6 yards per catch, eight touchdowns). He also had an excellent combine, even though fewer people are discussing his impressive 6-4 7/8, 219-pound frame, huge 10 3/4-inch hands and impressive 4.40 40. Streeter's potential to take the top off an NFL defense won't be ignored, though, likely earning him a second-round selection by a team requiring that sort of threat to complement its smaller, quicker receivers. If Chicago or San Francisco doesn't pick Floyd or Hill in the first round, they could look to get Streeter in the second.

Draft projection: Second round.

Junior Hemingway, Michigan: Michigan's leading receiver in 2011 put together one of the best under-the-radar performances of the combine. Despite measuring at 6-0 7/8, 225 pounds, he ran a respectable 4.53 40 and led all receivers (even the ones coming in 40 pounds lighter) in the short-area agility drills with a 3.98 20-yard shuttle and a 6.59 three-cone. Showing that sort of agility at 225 pounds is something scouts won't forget, and his strong performance all week at the East-West Shrine Game had already heightened teams' awareness of his next-level promise.

Draft projection: Fourth round.

Danny Coale, Virginia Tech: Coale couldn't pass teammate Jarrett Boykin on Virginia Tech's all-time receiving record lists, but he'll likely be rated ahead of his teammate on most draft boards. His combine confirmed some things scouts knew, but the general college football world may not have: He's not that short (5-11 7/8), he's not slow (4.50 40) and he is, indeed, quick in short areas (6.69 three-cone). Coale's hands are strong, and it certainly doesn't hurt that he could contribute on special teams as a punt and kick returner -- and even as an emergency punter (he had a 43.5-yard average on 13 punts in 2011).

Draft projection: Fifth round.



Tight ends

James Hanna, Oklahoma: Despite being a converted wide receiver, Hanna was not heavy utilized in Oklahoma's offense (he eclipsed 50 yards receiving in just two games last season). The athleticism he showed at the combine, however, will have teams scrambling for the tape. At nearly 6-3 3/4, 252 pounds, he ran a 4.49 40, benched 225 pounds 24 times and put up receiver-like numbers in his jumps and short-area agility tests. Hanna might not be a dominant in-line blocker or elite receiving prospect, but his somewhat surprising size and athleticism could entice a team to select him early on Draft Saturday as an intriguing tight end prospect who can work off outside receivers.

Draft projection: Fourth/fifth round.

Drake Dunsmore, Northwestern: The Wildcats referred to Dunsmore as their "Superback," lining him up all over the field to take advantage of his versatility. The first-team All-Big Ten tight end ran a solid 4.64 40 while also recording the quickest short shuttle (4.03) and three-cone (6.73) times of all tight ends. Those numbers could remind scouts of another former Big Ten tight end: Owen Daniels, who has become a valued contributor in the passing game for the Houston Texans.

Draft projection: Fourth/fifth round.

 

[Faust]

Workout wonder Hill suddenly under the scouting microscope

By Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Analyst

Who is Stephen Hill?

That's one of the biggest questions floating around in scouting circles after the former Georgia Tech receiver put on a spectacular showing at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Hill ranked among the top performers at any position in the 40-yard dash (4.36), vertical jump (39.5 inches) and three-cone drill (6.88), and finished as one of the standouts in the receiver drills. His combination of athleticism, body control and balance is impressive for a 6-foot-4, 215-pound receiver, and offensive coordinators around the league are intrigued by the possibility of incorporating an extraordinary athlete into their game plans.

Evaluating Hill's game tape, I see a big, physical receiver with exceptional speed and quickness. He excels at running the vertical portion of the route tree (go route, post and deep cross) and his ability to run past defenders is accentuated by the deception of the Yellow Jackets' triple-option offense. As a pass catcher, Hill shows strong hands and gives the quarterback a huge target with his enormous catching radius (33 3/8-inch arms and a 79 1/2-inch wingspan). He has a penchant for coming down with acrobatic catches in a crowd, and his ability to win contested balls makes him a dangerous weapon in the red zone.

In terms of the weaker aspects of Hill's game, I would point to his unrefined route-running skills, limited experience with pro passing-game concepts and drops due to lapses in concentration. His struggles with route running and concepts are partially due to the simplistic nature of Georgia Tech's passing game. Hill primarily ran deep routes or quick screens to take advantage of the isolated matchups created by the Yellow Jackets' run-heavy approach. While he certainly made the most of limited opportunities last season -- 28 receptions for 820 yards (29.3 yards per catch!) and five touchdowns -- he was rarely asked to run intermediate routes and clearly lacks fluidity in that area.

Hill's raw tools warrant serious consideration as a potential early-round selection, but his game is still unrefined in several aspects, so evaluators will arrive at Georgia Tech's pro day Tuesday looking to find a few answers to their most pressing questions. Here three questions Hill must address to solidify his status as one of the top receivers in the draft:

1. How good are Hill's hands?

Hill finished his three-year collegiate career with a grand total of 49 receptions, so evaluators don't have an extensive film résumé to study his game. That makes his performance at Tuesday's pro day critical to his final evaluation for most teams. Scouts and coaches will want to assess his pass-catching ability, particularly his hand-eye coordination and concentration. Evaluators will set up several ball-drill stations designed to test his ability to track the ball into his hands. Some of the drills will require Hill to catch the ball from a stationary position, while others will put him on the move to see how well he catches the ball from various angles.

Considering his limited experience catching balls at intermediate range, coaches will repeatedly ask him to catch balls from 12-to-15 yards away from the quarterback to gauge his ability to quickly pick up the flight of the ball. In addition, they will instruct him to work through various obstacles designed to simulate traffic over the middle and assess his ability to find and follow the ball.

Coaches will also put Hill through the paces on an assortment of ball drills from both sides to see if he has a strong or weak side catching the ball. As silly as it sounds, some receivers are more comfortable catching the ball from a preferred side and that could factor into the equation when determining where to align Hill on offense.



2. How quickly will Hill adapt to a pro route tree?

Hill's experience in Georgia Tech's triple option obviously isn't ideal preparation for the pro game. He was only targeted a few times each game and the vast majority of his receptions were compiled on vertical throws. Consequently, scouts will want to see how well Hill executes intermediate routes that are staples of most pro passing games.

To assess Hill's route-running ability, coaches will take him through an assortment of cone drills to see his ability to break down and transition out of cuts. He will be instructed to execute 45- and 90-degree angle breaks to simulate curls, square-ins and comebacks, and scouts will pay close attention to his ability to regenerate his speed out of cuts.

Hill will run the route tree from both sides of the field to give scouts a feel for where he stands in his development and how quickly he can get up to speed as a pro. Although all pro playbooks are unique in their concepts, the individual routes are fairly consistent and all necessary information can be gleaned from watching Hill's basic workout.

With that determination factoring heavily into Hill's final grade on the draft board, Hill's ability to show progress as a route runner could keep his name on the rise in war rooms across the league.

3. Can Hill comprehend the complexities of a pro scheme?

Hill faces a significant transition moving from Georgia Tech's triple option to any pro offense due to his inexperience with some of the nuances of a sophisticated passing game. He will enter the league with limited experience in hot reads or sight adjustments (breaking off a route in anticipation of a blitz), and didn't face much press or "cloud" coverage due to the run-heavy emphasis of his offense.

To assess his overall understanding of passing-game concepts and defensive coverage, coaches will put him on the blackboard to measure his overall football knowledge. In addition, coaches will teach him a few simple concepts and see if he is able to retain and process that information on the field. If he is able to execute and implement those concepts while simultaneously digesting information from a shifting defense, Hill will earn high marks from evaluators for his adaptability and football acumen. For teams employing complex systems predicated on post-snap adjustments from receivers based on coverage or blitz, Hill's ability to adjust on the fly will be a critical factor in his overall grade.

 

[Faust]

Big Board: RG3, defensive tackles move up with big combine showings

By Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com

Considering the brilliance of Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, quarterbacks were the media's focus throughout the 2012 scouting combine.

The brilliance of the top two players in the draft was acknowledged by scouts in the days afterward, but it was another position -- defensive tackle -- that has talent evaluators buzzing.

Memphis defensive tackle Dontari Poe's startling combination of size (6-4, 346 pounds), power (combine-high 44 repetitions of 225 pounds) and speed (4.98 seconds in the 40-yard dash) makes him unquestionably one of the combine's biggest winners.

Mississippi State's Fletcher Cox (6-4, 298) enjoyed a very impressive workout (30 reps, 4.79 seconds), of his own. Both join LSU's Michael Brockers and Penn State's Devon Still as defensive tackles ranked among the top 20 prospects in the post-combine Big Board.

The perception will be that the combine boosted these players' grades. In reality, the measuring tape, interviews and workouts only confirmed the unique physical traits and effort these prospects had shown on film.

What makes the 2012 defensive tackle class unique is the depth at the position. Four others fall among my final 12 first-round candidates, making it a full quarter of the 32 prospects listed on my updated Big Board playing defensive tackle.

1. Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford*: Luck's intelligence and poise are extraordinary, but lost in the shuffle of his intangibles is the fact that he's also a terrific athlete. Folks keep looking for reasons to call Luck overrated and he keeps proving them wrong. He'll do the same when he throws for scouts at his March 22 pro day.

2. Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor*: By proving his size, speed and magnetic personality are every bit as unique as we had all seen on his run to the Heisman Trophy, RG3 leapt into the top two on virtually every draft board in the league. And why not? Griffin's combination of straight-line speed and touch on the deep ball might make him the prototypical quarterback for today's NFL.

3. Matt Kalil, OT, Southern Cal*: Any doubts as to which of the top three junior offensive tackles would rise above the rest ended with Kalil's impressive all-around combine effort. He isn't an elite left tackle prospect in the mold of Joe Thomas or Jake Long, but isn't far off.

4. Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU*: The 2011 Thorpe Award winner as the nation's top cornerback, Claiborne was more impressive in position drills than he was running the 40-yard dash (4.50), but don't think scouts are worried about his athleticism or speed. A silky-smooth cover corner with extraordinary ball skills, Claiborne is more technically refined than former teammate Patrick Peterson, who was selected fifth overall last year by the Cardinals and was voted to the Pro Bowl as a punt returner.

5. Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama*: Considering how the running back position has been de-valued in today's NFL, it would be easy to rank Richardson lower. The reality is, however, Richardson's elite talent transcends trends. He is an elite talent blessed with size, burst and incredible power who will make an immediate impact.

6. David DeCastro, OG, Stanford*: In terms of consistent dominance, there hasn't been an offensive or defensive lineman I've graded higher thus far this season than DeCastro. Only the fact that he plays guard might keep him out of the top half of the first round.

7. Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College*: Like Luck, it is easy to get caught up in the intangibles Kuechly brings to the position, but at the combine, he proved much faster and more explosive than most scouts had given him credit for. He might have locked up a spot in the top 20 in doing so.

8. Michael Brockers, DT, LSU*: After creating a buzz with his size (6-5, 322) and imposing wingspan (83 inches), Brockers actually turned in a less than impressive combine workout, and as such, slipped out of the top spot on some teams' defensive tackle rankings. The redshirt sophomore's upside is undeniable, but to keep his spot inside the top 10, Brockers might need a better effort at LSU's pro day (March 19).

9. Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina: Let's be clear. Coples is not only the most physically gifted defensive lineman in the 2012 draft, he's also the most talented senior prospect, regardless of position. At a shade under 6-6 and 281 pounds, physically speaking, he'll earn first-round grades from scouts working for 3-4 and 4-3 clubs. Coples has developed a me-first reputation, however, and doesn't play with enough snap-to-snap consistency to earn the top-five grade from me that his talent obviously warrants, even though he enjoyed a dominating week in Mobile, Ala., at the Senior Bowl.

10. Dontari Poe, DT/NG, Memphis*: Producing a workout that has earned comparisons to that of Baltimore Ravens star Haloti Ngata's when he left the University of Oregon, Poe's scheme versatility and unbelievable upside could result in a top-five selection.

11. Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State*: Measuring in shorter (6-1) and lighter (207) than expected and unable to answer questions about his straight-line speed at the combine due to a lingering hamstring injury, Blackmon's perch at the top of the receiver rankings is in peril.

12. Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State*: Cox didn't earn nearly as much media attention for his spectacular combine workout as Poe, but some scouts believe his tape and efforts in Indianapolis prove he's the most versatile defensive lineman in this draft and a legitimate top-10 candidate.

13. Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame: In registering a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at 6-3, 220 pounds, Floyd provided an emphatic answer to concerns about his size/speed combination. Floyd wasn't the consistent big-play threat that Blackmon or Baylor's Kendall Wright were in college but his game might project best to the NFL.

14. Melvin Ingram, DE/LB, South Carolina: Blessed with extraordinarily light feet for a 6-2, 276-pound man, Ingram's impressive agility made him a star at defensive tackle for the Gamecocks in 2011. His athleticism is good enough, in fact, to make the transition to defensive end or even outside linebacker in the 3-4 in the NFL. Ingram's stock is limited by the fact that he has very short arms (30½ inches), which could limit his ability to break free of blocks at the next level.

15. Devon Still, DT, Penn State: Still's talent has been obvious throughout his career, but until a breakout senior season in which he earned recognition as the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year it simmered below the surface. Still's inability to play in the Senior Bowl (due to a sprained toe) was disappointing and for some will re-energize concerns about his consistency and motivation.

16. Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa*: Reiff was a standout left tackle for Iowa, but after appearing at the combine to be a bit less athletic (5.23 seconds in the 40) and weaker (22 reps at 225 pounds) with relatively short arms (33 1/4"), some believe his NFL future lies inside at guard.

17. 'Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama*: Kirkpatrick answered concerns about his speed at the combine (4.51), but the greater test came with private team interviews in Indy. If teams felt comfortable with Kirkpatrick's answers about a recent run-in with police and the lanky press-corner's fit in their system, a top 20 pick is likely.

18. Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford*: Martin's size (6-6, 305) and athleticism is very intriguing -- especially in a zone-blocking offense. Scouts wonder, however, if he has the physicality to be successful in every scheme. What they don't have to wonder about is Martin's light feet and balance in pass protection. Some scouts grade Martin higher than either Kalil or Reiff as a pass blocker.

19. Mark Barron, SS, Alabama: Instinctive, physical and a significantly more reliable open-field tackler than he was earlier in his career, Barron has established himself as the unquestioned top safety of the 2012 draft.

20. Cordy Glenn, OG, Georgia: Measuring in at 6-5 and 346 pounds at the Senior Bowl, Glenn nonetheless demonstrated surprising agility in Mobile and enjoyed an excellent week at the combine, boosting his chances at remaining at left tackle. While good outside, he was even better at left guard as a junior and might be best served moving back inside in the NFL. If he played with greater intensity, Glenn could rank among the elite offensive line prospects in the 2012 draft.

21. Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama: Other than linebacker drills, Upshaw only participated in one athletic event at the combine and posted a solid 22 reps on the bench press. He looked stiff and slow during his positional drills, however, drawing the concern of some scouts who question if he'll now have to be an undersized defensive end in the 4-3.

22. Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor: Scouts had compared Wright to Pro Bowl honorees DeSean Jackson and Steve Smith, but the Baylor playmaker's stock is slipping after he looked sluggish in drills and was clocked at a pedestrian 4.61 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

23. Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State*: The headliner in a dominant Michigan State unit that led the Big 10 in run defense and total defense, Worthy has the build of a run stuffer (estimated at 6-3, 320) but has remarkable burst off the snap, making him an intriguing pass rusher, as well. Only bouts with inconsistency push him outside of the top 20.

24. Nick Perry, DE, Southern Cal*: As had been anticipated, Perry enjoyed one of the combine's most impressive all-around performances showing speed (4.64), strength (35 reps) and explosiveness (38.5" vertical). He led the Pac-12 with 9.5 sacks in 2011 and might just be scratching the surface of his potential.

25. Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M: In terms of physical talent, there is no denying that Tannehill (6-4, 225) has the tools to warrant a first-round pick. He has a strong arm, good touch and obviously rare athleticism for the position considering that he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors as a receiver in 2009. With only 19 career starts at quarterback, however, Tannehill is understandably lacking in the finer techniques of the position and, as such, might struggle if thrown into the fire as a rookie.

26. Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut: I thought Reyes was the most impressive defensive tackle at the Senior Bowl, and after going back and reviewing his tape since returning from Mobile, I believe Reyes is arguably the draft's most underrated defensive lineman. His power, burst and size (6-4, 300) makes him a candidate for 4-3 and 3-4 teams and, as such, a legitimate first-round candidate.

27. Andre Branch, DE, Clemson: Possessing a combination of size (6-4, 265) and athleticism to intrigue scouts for 4-3 and 3-4 teams alike, Branch is likely to earn a selection in the first round; the only position more valuable in today's NFL than pass rushers are quarterbacks. Branch's inconsistency troubles me, however, as did his last-minute decision to opt out of the Senior Bowl.

28. Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama: Scouts will have to determine whether they can trust Jenkins to stay out of trouble once he has been given an NFL contract, but the former Florida Gator ended any debate about his ranking as the elite senior cover corner in the 2012 draft with a strong week of practice at the Senior Bowl and a solid combine workout.

29. Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson: At 6-2, 314 pounds, Thompson lacks the length and versatility of some of the other top-rated defensive linemen, but his squatty build and excellent power (35 reps) make him a quality run defender.

30. Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska: Crick missed the final eight games of the Huskers' season -- including the Capitol One Bowl -- and the Senior Bowl with a torn pectoral, but that won't keep scouts from grading the 2010 All-American as a first-round talent based on his potential to line up inside or out depending on the defensive scheme of the team that drafts him come April.

31. Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State: At 6-7, 323 pounds, Adams is a virtual mountain of a man and is best suited playing right tackle in the NFL. At the Senior Bowl, he stayed at the left tackle spot -- as he did at Ohio State -- and there will be an adjustment period for him as a rookie. However, in a weak senior class of tackles, he has the best combination of size, strength, mobility and experience against top competition.

32. Doug Martin, RB, Boise State: Due to their greater straight-line speed, some will point to Miami's Lamar Miller or Virginia Tech's David Wilson as the back likely to follow Richardson. Martin, however, is a more natural runner, demonstrating the vision, lateral agility, balance and burst to be a feature back in the NFL.

 

[Faust]

Post-combine position rankings for 2012 NFL Draft

By Mike Mayock NFL Network

Excerpt:

The NFL Scouting Combine has been completed and prospects are attempting to impress teams at their respective pro days. Mike Mayock updates his position-by-position rankings for the 2012 NFL Draft. Changes from his pre-combine rankings are noted below each position.

Quarterback

1. Andrew Luck, Stanford

2. Robert Griffin III, Baylor

3. Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

4. Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State

5. Kirk Cousins, Michigan State



Running Back

1. Trent Richardson, Alabama

2. Doug Martin, Boise State

3. David Wilson, Virginia Tech

4. Lamar Miller, Miami (Fla.)

5. LaMichael James, Oregon

Rise: Martin

Fall: Miller, Wilson



Wide Receiver

1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State

3. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

2. Kendall Wright, Baylor

4. Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech

5. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina

Rise: Floyd

Fall: Wright

New entry: Hill

Out: LSU's Rueben Randle

Tight End

1. Orson Charles, Georgia

2. Coby Fleener, Stanford

3. Dwayne Allen, Clemson

4. Deangelo Peterson, LSU

5. Ladarius Green, Louisiana-Lafayette

 

[Faust]

Georgia Tech WR Hill trying to impress NFL teams

By GEORGE HENRY, Associated Press

ATLANTA (AP) — Former Georgia Tech WR Stephen Hill hopes he's getting closer to becoming a high pick in the NFL draft.

After creating a buzz by running the 40-yard dash in 4.31 seconds at the NFL scouting combine two weeks ago, Hill caught all 12 passes thrown to him in a pro day workout Tuesday on campus.

Hill now must convince teams that he's worthy of a high second-round pick — maybe better — despite spending his college career in the Yellow Jackets' triple-option, run-oriented offense. He caught just 49 passes in a three-year career, but averaged an impressive 25.5 yards per reception.

"I've got to sell myself a lot," Hill said after the workout. "I think everybody has to sell themselves coming out of any offense, but of course I have to sell myself more. Other than that, I feel like the whole process is going great. There's a lot of work left to do."

Since reporting to the combine, Hill has advanced his cause considerably. He was considered as a potential fourth-round pick before arriving in Indianapolis, but his time in the 40 and his performance in other combine drills elevated his status.

All 32 NFL teams had representatives watching him Tuesday.

Hill caught passes from Eric Ward, an Atlanta native who played at Richmond and spent time in camp two years ago with the Falcons.

Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith declined to comment about Hill's status to The Associated Press, but it was clear that Hill was pleased when Minnesota Vikings receivers coach George Stewart pulled him aside for some encouraging words.

"It's all about route running and showing that I can catch with my hands," Hill said. "A lot of my focus today was mostly just getting in and out of breaks, but I think I should work on everything. Even if I'm good at something right now, I still need to work on it, even blocking, which we are so accustomed to doing at Georgia Tech."

According to many scouting sites and services listed on the Internet, Hill is considered the fifth- or sixth-best receiver behind Justin Blackmon of Oklahoma State, Michael Floyd of Notre Dame, Alshon Jeffery of South Carolina and Baylor's Kendall Wright. (Read Pro Football Weekly's scouting report on Hill.)

To keep interest stirring, Hill must convince teams that he can run routes as well as Demaryius Thomas, a receiver of similar build who played in the same offense at Georgia Tech. Thomas, who was drafted No. 22 overall in 2010, averaged 17.2 yards on 32 receptions last season before catching the winning touchdown pass in the Broncos' overtime playoff win over Pittsburgh.

Like Thomas, Hill left Georgia Tech after his junior year.

"I believe it can only help my cause that (Thomas) has delivered on expectations after coming out of Georgia Tech," Hill said. "With (QB Tim) Tebow running the offense, they don't throw the ball a lot, but (Thomas) is still a go-to guy. He's shown he can make big plays in the NFL. It's my goal to do the same thing."

Hill and Thomas ran similar times at the combine — Thomas was clocked at 4.36 in the 40 two years ago — and both were impressive on the vertical jump. Hill recorded a leap of 39 inches at Indianapolis, so he declined to do anything more than run routes on Tuesday.

For other former Georgia Tech players like RB Roddy Jones, the pro day was an opportunity to shine. Unlike Hill, who said he has spoken with all 32 NFL teams, Jones still has yet to be contacted.

Jones hopes a team will take a chance on him either as a late draft pick or as a college free agent. He participated in 40-yard dash, short shuttle, long shuttle and cone drills.

"I don't have any of my official times from today, but my dad had a stopwatch, so I was pretty pleased with it," Jones said. "The feedback I've been getting is good. I was excited about the way I performed. Hopefully, I'll get some feedback after this and see kind of where stand and what they're thinking."

Other former Georgia Tech players who participated were Embry Peeples, Jason Peters, Steven Sylvester, Rashaad Reid, Logan Walls and Tyler Melton.

For Hill, the immediate future seems much brighter. He plans to return this week to working independently with former Falcons WR Terance Mathis, who has counseled him in private sessions during the last nine weeks.

"I'm just trying to get as much information from as many reliable sources as I can find," Hill said. "It's just a matter of continuing to taking the best of what everyone has to offer and fitting it into what will suit my situation the best."

 

[Faust]

Speedy Hill continues ascent at Georgia Tech's pro day

The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

ATLANTA -- Wide receiver Stephen Hill wanted to leave a specific impression with the NFL coaches who flocked to Georgia Tech's pro day.

"I just want to show them, because those are the guys who will be drafting me, that I can do great things other than just running deep routes," said the 6-4, 215-pounder, one of the stars of the NFL combine, where he posted a 4.36 "official" time in the 40-yard dash.

Mission accomplished. With two head coaches -- Atlanta's Mike Smith and Lovie Smith of the Bears -- and most NFL teams in attendance, Hill did his part to continue nudging his draft stock upward.

Running a variety of short and intermediate routes, Hill got in and out of his breaks fast and caught all 12 passes, including a fingertip-grab off the turf, form quarterback Eric Ward in Tuesday's workout. Vikings wide receiver coach George Stewart ran the receiver drills and ordered Hill through the route tree.

His eye-catching gold and silver Nike Vapor cleats only added to the spectacle. Scouts wanted to see something they didn't on film from Hill -- how he runs routes, if he repeats them with precision and how he tracks the ball over his shoulder and adjusts to poorly thrown passes. Hill was not a featured part of the run-first offense Tech operates.

Some scouts might be concerned with Hill's junior season, in which he dropped easily catchable balls but made the spectacular catches.

But scouts view him as a natural hands catcher. One observer credited him with five drops and 28 receptions last season.

Hill didn't run the 40-yard dash at pro day. He is 4.36 at the combine tied for the fastest showing. "I think I kind of showed enough," he said with a laugh when asked about not running at pro day. Hill has been working out under the watchful eye of former Falcons wide receiver Terance Mathis. "Basically it's just route-running, getting in and out of breaks, making sure I catch the ball with my eyes," he said. "Of course with my hands, but mostly with my eyes."

Several Tech seniors try to impress

Pro day wasn't all about Hill. Also working out were seven Tech seniors projected as undrafted free agents: RBs Roddy Jones and Embry Peeples, DE Jason Peters, LB Steven Sylvester, WR Tyler Melton, DT Logan Walls and CB Rashaad Reid.

According to scouts, Peeples ran a 4.50, followed by Jones (4.53), Reid (4.56), Sylvester (4.75) and Peters (4.83).

Peters benched 225 pounds 28 times. Walls did 24 reps, followed by Sylvester (23), Melton (16), Jones (14), Peeples (14) and Reid (11 3/4).

• Melton dropped his first pass but redeemed himself with a twisting, leaping grab.

• Tech coach Paul Johnson said Jones and Peeples are "probably third-down backs, slot receivers. Clearly they've done some of that, catching the ball in space. It just depends on how teams see them.

"You hope they all get a chance, they all get into camp and see what happens."

 

[Faust]

Greg Childs lights up track at Arkansas Pro Day

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

On a day full of interesting results from Pro Days scattered across the country (from UCLA to Illinois to Georgia Tech), it was the workout in Fayetteville, Arkansas that had scouts buzzing Tuesday night.

That's because Arkansas wideout Greg Childs stole the spotlight demonstrating much greater explosiveness in measureable and positional drills from what he showed les than two weeks ago at the Scouting Combine. In doing so Childs helped to prove that perhaps he's regained the explosiveness that made him a star in the SEC before partially injuring the patella tendon in his right knee in 2010 and reinjuring the knee last year.

The 6-3, 212 pound Childs had enjoyed a quietly solid workout at the Combine (where he weighed in seven pounds heavier), including running the 40-yard at 4.55 seconds and posting a 36.5" vertical jump. On Tuesday, Childs was clocked at 4.41 seconds in the 40-yard dash and also improved his vertical jump significantly, posting a 41.5" vertical that would have tied Stanford's Chris Owusu for third among all receivers tested in Indianapolis this year.

"It was just mainly showing everybody that I was healthy again; showing everybody I was 100 percent," Childs told reporters following the workout. "I came out here and I had some scouts tell me, 'You look 100 percent. You look as explosive as ever.'"

The league source I spoke to Tuesday night couldn't have agreed more.

"He looked like he was back," a high-ranking official from an NFC team told me. "Honestly, he looked better than he did before. I wouldn't have estimated him as a 4.40 guy based off of tape so this was great workout for him. There was a bit of a buzz about [Childs' workout] as we left."

Childs had looked like a future high round pick early in his career at Arkansas. He led the Razorbacks in catches, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns as a sophomore and junior and appeared destined for All-SEC honors in 2010 before suffering the injury. Though he reportedly didn't actually tear the patella, Childs did undergo surgery. Many expected that he'd miss the 2011 season but Childs returned in the spring and surprised the Arkansas staff and media when he elected to practice without so much as a knee brace. Unfortunately, while his heart was willing, Childs looked like a shadow of himself as a senior. He caught just 21 passes for 240 yards in 2011 and did not score a touchdown.

Childs also helped himself during positional drills. He caught passes cleanly from his former teammate (and current New England Patriot) Ryan Mallett, as did his receiver mates Joe Adams and Jarius Wright. After running well at the Combine (4.42), Wright elected not to run again Tuesday. Adams did run again, but was unable to improve upon the surprisingly disappointing 4.55 time he registered in Indianapolis, clocking in at exactly the same time Tuesday. The scout noted that Adams weighed in at 188 pounds Tuesday, which is nine pounds heavier than he weighed at the Combine.

All three Arkansas receivers are currently viewed as likely Day Three picks by NFLDraftScout.com.

While Arkansas' trio of receivers garnered most of the attention Tuesday, pass rusher Jake Bequette also made news. Bequette informed scouts that he'd injured his pectoral muscle at the Combine and elected not to participate in measureable drills Tuesday. The 6-5, 274 pound defensive end did participate in linebacker drills, however, at the request of scouts from 3-4 teams. Bequette posted solid numbers in drills at the Combine but wasn't able to perform in the bench press drill there, either. He told scouts that he'll be scheduling a workout in which he'll do the bench press prior to the draft.

Finally, two SEC standouts I was surprised wasn't invited to the Combine showed that perhaps they should have been with strong workouts, Tuesday. Safety Tramain Thomas measured in a shade under 6-0 (5-11 7/8) and 200 pounds. He was clocked at 4.51 seconds in the 40-yard dash and posted a 38.5" vertical jump. Inside linebacker Jerry Franklin (6-1, 242 pounds) Franklin was not invited to the Combine but was clocked at 4.60 seconds in the 40-yard dash, a 6.90 second time in the three-cone drill and a 37.5" vertical jump.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Big Board: RG3, defensive tackles move up with big combine showings

By Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com

Looks like a good year to be in the top 20. My favorite ranking of the offseason.

 

[Faust]

Top-rated WR Blackmon proves speed with 4.4 times

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

After measuring in shorter and lighter than expected and showing a lack of explosion during receiving drills at the 2012 Scouting Combine, the pressure was on Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon to perform well at his Pro Day.

It appears that he did precisely that. Former St. Louis Rams' Vice President of Player Personnel Tony Softli reported on Twitter that three separate scouts had clocked Blackmon in the low 4.4s (4.43, 4.44, 4.45) in the 40-yard dash Friday.

NFLDraftScout.com confirmed the time with one of our own sources on hand, who had Blackmon at 4.45 seconds. Our source also reports that Blackmon registered a 35.5" vertical jump.

While Blackmon, the reigning back to back Biletnikof winner as the nation's top wide receiver, had enjoyed a stellar career with the Cowboys there had been plenty of concern about his straight-line speed. Multiple scouts had estimated Blackmon in the mid 4.5s throughout this season and earlier in his career.

The faster than expected times, by themselves, won't dramatically increase Blackmon's stock. They do, however, help assure scouts that Blackmon has the speed to continue his big playmaking ways against NFL competition and likely solidify his stock as a top 10 -- or perhaps even top five -- prospect.

Blackmon had been rated as NFLDraftScout.com's No. 1 receiver and is our No. 5 rated prospect, overall.

At this point Blackmon and the rest of the Cowboys are still working out. NFLDraftScout.com will have a full report from the Oklahoma State Pro Day after it ends.

Blackmon's big Pro Day draws key decision-makers

Contributed by James Poling

STILLWATER, Okla. -- When Justin Blackmon didn't run the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, questions about his speed persisted.

With 62 representatives from all 32 NFL teams watching him at his pro day, Blackmon erased any lingering doubt about his timed speed in roughly 4.45 seconds.

Oklahoma State listed Blackmon's 40 time as a 4.46 Friday. Scouts attending also had him running in 4.44 seconds.

"I was trying to shoot for a 4.45," Blackmon said. "That was kind of in my head, anywhere between there and 4.5.

"I felt pretty good when I ran it. My time was there. It says everything it needs to say."

In other drills, Blackmon touched 35 inches in his vertical jump, ran 4.36 in the shuttle and jumped 10-feet-3 inches in the broad jump. Satisfied with his 14 reps in the bench press from the NFL combine, he decided to skip that drill.

Blackmon caught 14 of 16 passes from quarterback Brandon Weeden during pass-catching drills. He did have two drops, both on out routes, but made two 50-yard catches on which he made adjustments to the ball in midair.

"Brandon put the ball on the spot," Blackmon said. "I had a couple of drops, but overall it went well."

Most of Blackmon's catches occurred either within 10 yards on the left sideline or past 20 yards on the right sidelines. He did not run any routes to the right side within 20 yards of the line of scrimmage.

Some of the teams drafting early in the first round sent top coaches to Oklahoma State's pro day.

For the Cleveland Browns, head coach Pat Shurmur and offensive coordinator Brad Childress were on hand. Shurmur and Childress stood to the left of Weeden as they watched Blackmon in the receiving drills.

The Minnesota Vikings, with the third overall pick in the draft, had four members of their staff in attendance, including coach Leslie Frazier. The Vikings staff had a meeting scheduled with Blackmon immediately after his workout.

Frazier said he thinks there is a good chance Blackmon will be available for the Vikings at the third pick if his team decides it wants to select him. Andrew Luck of Stanford and Baylor's Robert Griffin III are widely expected to be the first two picks in the draft, but the Vikings drafted quarterback Christian Ponder in the first round of the 2011 draft.

"He's a terrific young player," Frazier said. "He didn't do anything to make you wonder if he was a different person on tape. He really solidified some of the things you saw on tape."

Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith and Denver Broncos coach John Fox were the other coaches in attendance. Fox was flanked by vice president John Elway and general manager Brian Xanders before hurriedly hitting the airport, where they boarded a jet bound for Denver with Peyton Manning as a passenger.

The Broncos, though, were likely scouting Weeden and other participants more than Blackmon.

After declaring for the draft, Blackmon's initial goal was to participate in as few drills as possible at the pro day. A minor hamstring injury during the week of the combine forced him to skip the 40-yard dash in Indianapolis, raising doubts about how fast he was projected to run.

For Blackmon, he felt relieved to post a convincing time of 4.46, which should stand up to any bristle about a "fast track" in Stillwater.

"It was a process to try to knock it all out at the combine, and things popped up and I couldn't," Blackmon said. "I'm glad I got to come out and perform today and glad I got to knock it out."

In the weeks leading up to the pro day, Blackmon had to adjust his training to allow his hamstring to rest.

"I didn't do everything running wise I could (have) to better myself," Blackmon said. "I had to cut down on the runs and coming in and out of breaks. I did a lot more upper body things."

Blackmon's focus turns to private workouts with teams. Todd France, Blackmon's agent, said his client had workouts scheduled with multiple teams, but France would not disclose which teams will be hosting Blackmon.

 

[Faust]

RB Polk measures in lighter, faster at UW Pro Day

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

Seattle -- A year ago it was quarterback Jake Locker whose impressive Pro Day workout at the University of Washington served as a springboard from which he boosted his mercurial stock all the way to the No. 8 pick in the 2011 NFL draft.

This year it is running back Chris Polk who likely boosted his stock with scouts with an impressive all-around performance Thursday in front of scouts and position coaches from roughly half of the teams in the NFL. Ironically enough, he did so with Locker watching, as the Titans' 2011 first round pick returned to Washington to throw passes to Polk, wide receivers Jermaine Kearse and Devin Aguilar and fullback Dorson Boyce.

Polk measured in at 5-10 (1/2) and 212 pounds, three pounds lighter than he'd weighed at the Combine and 12 pounds lighter than he was at the Senior Bowl. The loss of weight was noticeable in the running back's time in the 40-yard dash and his explosiveness in positional drills. Polk was credited with an "official" 4.57 second time at the Combine but came in at between 4.45-4.49 in his first attempt and 4.48-4.51 in his second. Polk also posted 16 reps on the bench press. He caught passes out of the backfield, demonstrating the soft, reliable hands and route-running ability that I believe is his most underrated quality and why the Washington running back remains in the hunt (along with Boise State's Doug Martin, Virginia Tech's David Wilson and Miami's Lamar Miller) to be the second back selected in the 2012 draft. Only Alabama's Trent Richardson, the consensus top-rated back, is viewed as a surefire first round pick.

While Polk was the big name, the three other Washington players invited to participate in the Scouting Combine this year each worked out again for scouts Thursday.

The Cincinnati Bengals thought enough of defensive tackle Alameda Ta'amu to send their defensive line coach Jay Hayes to work out the big (6-2, 347) run-stuffer personally. Ta'amu has surprisingly light feet for a man of his size and scouts on hand seemed pleased with his performance in the shuttle and three-cone drills.

Similarly, Seattle Seahawks' assistant offensive line coach Pat Ruel worked out Senio Kelemete (6-3 1/2, 309). Kelemete started his final two seasons for the Huskies at left tackle but is viewed by most as a better fit inside at guard. Kelemete looked good at 309 pounds after playing closer to 290 this season, showing the balance, quick feet and improved power (25 reps today after 21 at the Combine) to handle the transition.

Kearse enjoyed a strong workout, as well, clocking in much faster today (4.44) than he did at the Combine (4.58) and catching every pass that I saw touch his hands. He and Locker didn't connect on a couple of deeper throws, including on a post-corner in which NFL personnel were overhead chiding Kearse for not getting his head around quickly enough to locate the ball.

One Husky who likely caught the attention of scouts with a stellar 40-yard dash time was cornerback Quinton Richardson. Not invited to the Combine, Richardson was the fastest of the players tested Thursday, recording times in the mid 4.3s. Richardson had looked like a potential draftable commodity after a strong junior season but struggled with inconsistency as a senior. Clearly, he has the speed to warant further investigation.

Media members were partioned off from the actual workout and the results of timed drills was not made readily available.

I saw representatives of the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the workout.

 

[Faust]

WR Toon highlights "impressive" Wisconsin Pro Day

NFL Draft Blog by Rob Rang

Senior wide receiver Nick Toon shaved more than a tenth of a second off of the 4.54 second time he had posted at the Scouting Combine, ran crisp routes and plucked the ball out of the air easily, highlighting what one veteran NFL scout called an "impressive group overall" at the Wisconsin Pro Day.

The 6-2, 215 pound Toon was clocked at 4.43 seconds Wednesday. The improved time is important as average straight-line speed is considered to be Toon's biggest shorting. He also improved upon his vertical jump (39") from the Combine (37.5) and registered a 10'10" broad jump, as well. Toon is currently rated by NFLDraftScout.com as a 3rd round prospect and the No. 100 player on our board, overall.

Toon was hardly the only Wisconsin standout to enjoy a strong day.

Quarterback Russell Wilson not only completed 59 of 63 passes, according to Tom Mulhern of the Wisconsin State Journal, he also improved on the one element that scouts question the most -- his height.

After being measured at 5-11 even at the Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine, Wilson inexplicably came in 3/8 of an inch taller at the Pro Day. Conspiracy theorists know this, pro scouts are the ones doing the measuring at each event.

Wilson, according to the scout, was poised throughout the workout and demonstrated "the same touch and arm strength we'd all seen on tape -- whether here [at Wisconsin] or before [at North Carolina State]."

“He’s a very impressive fellow,” Green Bay Packers' general manager Ted Thompson said of Wilson, “articulate, knowledgeable, confident, and he projects that confidence. He’s going to be a good get for somebody.” Wilson is currently rated as NFLDraftScout.com's No. 10 quarterback. His size is the biggest factor keeping outside of the top five at the position and thus a team willing to cater their offense around his ability to throw on the run could grade him significantly higher.

While the skill position players got most of the buzz, scouts believe the Wisconsin tradition of producing quality offensive linemen could be proven yet again with one or two Badger blockers the first players drafted from the school in 2012.

Offensive guard Kevin Zeitler was "efficient and powerful" during positional drills. Junior Peter Konz was unable to fully participate due to the fact that he's still recovering from the dislocated ankle that sidelined him for much of the second half of the regular season in 2011. He did do the snapping to Wilson in drills, however. Scouts like Konz's size and mobility enough that some view him as possible convert to guard or even right tackle in the NFL. More than a few scouts are concerned with a lack of ideal strength shown during the bench press drill at the Combine, where Konz lifted the bar "only" 18 times. Zeitler, by comparison, had 32 reps.

One relatively unheralded prospect that caught the scout's eye Wednesday was defensive lineman Louis Nzegwu. Nzegwu didn't take the step up as a senior some had expected after emerging in his junior season with 46 tackles, including 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. Though his sack total increased (4.5), Nzegwu's tackles (34) and tackles for loss (six) dropped and he wasn't invited to the Combine. Measuring in at 6-3, 254 pounds, he demonstrated "some wow athleticism" by being clocked at 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash and recording a 41.5" vertical jump. Nzegwu is currently rated as a free agent prospect by NFLDraftScout.com but his athleticism certainly warrants scouts taking a closer look.

 

[noneother]

WOW...

Seems interesting that everyone is having "GREAT" pro days... :suspicious:

ETA better grammar

 

[duaneok66]

WOW...Seems interesting that everyone is have "GREAT" pro days... :suspicious:

that is my mindset as well. Why even watch NFL network if even Mike Mayock (whom i totally respect) sounds like a broken record??

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Seems interesting that everyone is have "GREAT" pro days... :suspicious:

I'm sure seeing some of these guys in person is helpful, but you should throw out any time you hear from a pro day. They're junk.

 

[Faust]

Seems interesting that everyone is have "GREAT" pro days... :suspicious:

I'm sure seeing some of these guys in person is helpful, but you should throw out any time you hear from a pro day. They're junk.

Pro Days should be looked at with a degree of skepticism as they are often held in optimal conditions on typically fast tracks and fields that the player is very comfortable and familiar with. They are held by coaching staffs that want their players to succeed so that they are drafted high and in turn can be marquee players to help them in their recruiting efforts.Having said that - I would prefer that a player has a great pro day, as opposed to having a terrible one and sometimes the buzz from the scouts can be a little helpful. I seem to remember Sam Bradford having a particularly strong pro day and generating some buzz as a result.

 

[Faust]

Matthews stands out at Nevada pro day

By Gil Brandt

Nevada’s pro day was attended by representatives from 15 NFL teams on Wednesday, who watched prospects (all of whom attended the NFL Scouting Combine) work out. Two linebacker coaches were in attendance.

Mike Ball, RB (5-foot-8 7/8 and 213 pounds) — Ball ran the 40-yard dash in 4.52 and 4.55 seconds. He had a 9-foot-10 broad jump, but didn’t do the vertical. He stood on his combine results. Ball completed the short shuttle in 4.12 seconds and did the three-cone in 6.97 seconds. His workout was okay; he didn’t really do anything special.

James-Michael Johnson, LB (6-1 1/4, 242) — Johnson stood on his times from the combine. He ran the short shuttle in 4.23 and did the three-cone in 6.99 seconds, and had a positional workout. He did fine; he did what he was supposed to.

Brandon Marshall, LB (6-1 1/2, 243) — He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.63 and 4.69 seconds. He had a 29 1/2-inch vertical and 9-2 broad jump, and did the short shuttle in 4.18 seconds. Marshall didn’t do the cones, and he didn’t bench.

Rishard Matthews, WR (6-1 1/2, 209) — Matthews really blew my socks off. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.44 and 4.48 seconds, and stayed on his vertical from the combine. He notched a 10-3 broad jump and kept his shuttle, three-cone and bench. He had an outstanding workout. Scouts said it was as good a workout as they’ve seen from a receiver. Matthews caught the ball and got speed. There are lots and lots of receivers in this draft, but Matthews managed to elevate his status with his performance. I would imagine that he’s now a second-round pick.

 

[Faust]

RG3 wows in workout, deserves first-pick consideration

By Gil Brandt

The workout that Robert Griffin III had Wednesday at Baylor was outstanding. I’m not sure whether he or Andrew Luck should be the No. 1 overall draft pick.

Of the 51 passes that he threw, just two weren’t catchable. His arm strength is very, very good; he threw the ball with ease 60 yards down the field. His anticipation was very good; he was able to hit receivers coming across the field.

Griffin has excellent feet, and he’s equally good going to his right or his left. Many players are better off going one way or the other, but he was equally impressive both ways.

There’s no question in my mind, after seeing him work out today, that he’s going to be a very, very good NFL quarterback in the future. He’s got everything you need in a passing arm, and he’s got speed and quickness of feet.

I talked to a linebackers coach after the workout, and he said he hopes he doesn’t have to play against Griffin more than once every three or four years.

Also, everybody “oohed and ahhed” at some of the catches that Kendall Wright made. The thing about him is, you can’t throw the ball over his head on deep routes. But he’s a very, very athletic guy who’s very strong.

 

[Faust]

Video Link: Andrew Luck throws at his pro day

02:46 – Paul Burmeister and Mike Mayock provide live commentary as Andrew Luck beings his pro day workout. For more, catch "Path to the Draft" at 6 PM ET on NFL Network.

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft Risers and Fallers

By Dane Brugler

NFLDraftScout.com Analyst

Excerpts on the offensive skill position players:

While March Madness is commanding the headlines of the sports world, NFL scouts and evaluators remain on the hunt to find the future stars of pro football. Although the Combine has come and gone, numerous on-campus pro days are taking place every day throughout the month of March and into early April. These workouts give players the chance to improve their numbers from Indianapolis and the opportunity for Combine snubs to show their skills in front of NFL teams.

Warranted spotlight will follow Baylor's Robert Griffin III and Stanford's Andrew Luck, who will throw at their campus workouts -- March 21 for Griffin, the next day for Luck -- after opting not to participate in those drills at the Combine.

But there are more than a few important workouts taking place leading up to the draft, including Alabama RB Trent Richardson and SS Mark Barron, scheduled to work out on March 29 with much to prove.

Here are this week's Risers and Fallers:

Risers:

1. WR Jeremy Ebert Northwestern

For a player with 173 career receptions in college, Ebert is far from a household name and hasn't received much attention in the pre-draft process. But after an impressive on-campus workout during Northwestern's pro day, perhaps that will change. Ebert, who didn't receive an invitation to the NFL Combine, ran his 40-yard dashes in the high 4.3's and low 4.4's, showing better-than-expected speed for the 20 teams in attendance. He also impressed with his numbers in the other drills, including the vertical jump (33 inches), broad jump (9'4) and short shuttle (4.15). Also, Ebert's time of 6.70 in the 3-cone drill would have ranked him third among all receivers at the Combine. He is a reliable possession receiver with soft hands and very good focus to make challenging catches. Ebert tracks the ball well and shows savvy and toughness on the field that shows up on tape. He is still widely viewed as a late round player or priority free agent, but he is moving up draft boards for most teams.



2. QB Aaron Corp Richmond

A USC transfer, Corp had a very up-and-down career at FCS-level Richmond with only average production, including a career TD-to-INT ratio of 20-to-17. However between the Combine and his pro day last Friday, his draft stock is on the rise. Corp, who measured in at 6-3?? and 215 pounds, posted positive numbers in drills with a 4.65 40-yard dash, 31.5" vertical leap, 4.30 short shuttle and 7.03 3-cone drill. But it was his performance throwing the ball that created some buzz. With nine NFL teams in attendance at Richmond's pro day, Corp's arm strength looked better than advertised with the footwork and quickness to maneuver well in the pocket and throw on the run. He also assured those in attendance that his 2010 season-ending knee injury was fully healed. Corp is still graded as a priority free agent by most teams, but it wouldn't be a huge shock to hear his name late on draft weekend because of his performance since the season ended. He projects as a developmental, third-string quarterback at the next level.

Fallers



3. TE Kevin Koger Michigan

The Wolverines tight end, who was a surprise snub from the Combine last month, could be an excellent mid-round value in a weak tight end class. However, he didn't help himself last Thursday at Michigan's Pro Day as was forced to watch his teammates from the sidelines because he tweaked his hamstring. Koger performed well in front of scouts at the East-West Shrine Game in Tampa and is considered one of the better all-around players at his position in the draft. He did post 21 reps of 225-pounds on the bench press, but was unable to do anything else and there are some concerns he might not be fully healed in time to run for scouts before the draft. For a player who caught only 23 passes as a senior, NFL teams want to know if Koger has the athleticism and speed to be effective as a pro.

 

[Faust]

Andrew Luck highlights strong pro day for Stanford's 'Fantastic Four'

By Rob Rang | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

PALO ALTO, Calif. - If Robert Griffin III's spectacular Pro Day workout Wednesday tightened whatever gap there was between he and Andrew Luck, the Stanford quarterback responded Thursday at his own on campus workout the same way he has taken on every other challenger to his throne as the elite player in this draft - with unassuming dominance.

Fighting wind gusts of an estimated 20 miles per hour, Luck completed 45 of the 48 passes quarterbacks guru George Whitfield told scouts before the workout his pupil would be throwing. Only one pass - a deep ball early in his session - was thrown poorly. The pass held up in the wind and fluttered, though it was caught. The three incompletions were perfectly thrown passes delivered to wide receivers Griff Whalen and Chris Owusu, as well as one thrown to tight end Coby Fleener that simply slipped through the fingers of his normally sure-handed targets. Luck did this after completing every one of the estimated 20 warm-up throws.

"(Luck's) throwing session was the kind of workout we all expected," one high-ranking team official thought to be considering a quarterback told me, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "The quick release, mobility, anticipation and touch were all there. He also showed a bit more arm strength than you might have thought based on tape, especially on that last deep ball. It was wind-aided, of course, but that ball went 70-plus (yards) and he didn't wind up; he just let it rip."

The workout wasn't flashy. Frankly, having attended the Pro Days of other top quarterback prospects Mark Sanchez, Sam Bradford and Jake Locker in recent years, I'd rank it second to Bradford's. That said, Bradford had the luxury of throwing inside and had more to prove after missing the 2009 season with a shoulder injury.

"I think I wanted to come out here and put my best foot forward in front of the scouts," Luck said following the workout. "I thought I did that. I thought I made the throws I needed to make."

The workout was taken in by representatives of virtually every team. Surprisingly, Indianapolis head coach Chuck Pagano and general manager Ryan Grigson were not seen, though the Colts did have at least two representatives on hand, including quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen. The Washington Redskins, owners of the No. 2 overall pick, were well represented. Owner Daniel Snyder, head coach Mike Shanahan and general manager Bruce Allen were all present. Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt, Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert and Oakland Raiders' general manager Reggie McKenzie were among the other decision-makers on the field.

While Luck certainly was the headliner of the workout, scouts expect he'll be joined in the April 26 first round by three other Cardinal.

Fleener, the lone senior of Stanford's "Fantastic Four" and the one battling the hardest to be included in the first-round conversation, certainly looked the part of a top 32 prospect Wednesday, dazzling scouts with his speed, agility and sure hands. Fleener, measuring in at 6-5, 241 pounds, was clocked between 4.45-4.50 seconds in the 40-yard dash and more important, carried over that speed into a positional workout that featured several impressive catches, including one down the deep middle in which he was forced to turn back toward the ball and adjust to a high pass thrown slightly behind him.

Fleener, NFLDraftScout.com's top-rated tight end, also tested very well in the vertical jump (37 inches). He'd proven his strength at the Scouting Combine by posting 27 repetitions of 225 pounds, tied for second among all tight ends tested this year.

Fleener's workout was viewed by some as even more critical than Luck's choreographed throwing session, as the tight end wasn't able to participate in the Combine due to a high right ankle sprain. The injury threatened to rob Fleener of this opportunity, as well. After slipping running the three cone drill, Fleener was seen having his right ankle re-taped. He seemed no worse for the wear, however, during his positional drills.

Other than Luck, the prospect most scouts feel is the safest of Stanford's incredible 2012 draft class is right guard David DeCastro. Tenacious, physical and athletic, DeCastro has earned comparisons to some of the greatest guards in recent NFL history. Stanford head coach David Shaw compared DeCastro to former All-Pro Steve Wisniewski, a man he helped coach while both were with the Raiders.

Having participated fully at the Combine, DeCastro spent at least 20 minutes of the early portion of Thursday's workout talking with Cincinnati offensive line coach Paul Alexander - one of eight OL coaches I was told attended the workout. DeCastro's trademark agility and explosiveness were on display during his positional drill.

As impressive as DeCastro was, former linemate Jonathan Martin was disappointing.

Advertised as a top-notch athlete, the First Team All-Pac 12 left tackle was timed at 5.33 seconds in his first attempt at the 40-yard dash. Worse, this attempt was aided by the wind. Martin came in at 5.43 seconds, according to scouts, on his second attempt against the wind. Perhaps more alarming was that the 6-5, 307-pound Martin lifted the bar only 20 times during the bench press and wasn't as fluid or explosive as DeCastro during position drills.

Martin was also just average in the vertical (30") and broad jump (8'8") - at least in comparison to how other highly regarded offensive tackles performed at the Combine. While Martin's disappointing Pro Day will no doubt raise some concerns, three impressive years protecting Luck's blind side speaks for itself and will almost surely keep the big man in the draft's initial frame.

Having turned in one of the Combine's most impressive all-around workouts at any position, Owusu elected not to participate in timed events Thursday but he starred during receiver drills. Owusu, who was clocked at 4.36 seconds in the 40-yard dash in Indianapolis, showed that his explosiveness translated nicely onto the field Thursday, running sharp routes, showing generally reliable hands and providing the speedy target on the outside to help Luck alleviate any concerns about his arm strength or touch on the deep ball.

Scouts know Owusu well. He had been graded as a possible top 100 prospect heading into his senior season before concussions cut his 2011 campaign short. If teams are willing to pass him medically, there is no question he has the talent to help a club as an outside vertical threat and kick returner.

Several other members of the Cardinal, while not candidates for the early rounds, helped their chances at hearing their names called at some point in the draft with strong efforts Thursday.

"It's not just about the top guys that made today's workout so impressive," McKenzie said following the workout. "Obviously, (Stanford) has some guys who are going to be drafted very high. What was impressive was the number of guys on the field today that will get into a camp. That's the mark of a big-time program. And (Stanford) proved that they have a lot of those guys today."

Some of "those guys" were versatile defensive backs Delano Howell, Michael Thomas and Johnson Bademosi - each of whom could earn late-round looks as safeties.

Howell, a three-year all-conference selection, has solid tape and helped prove he has the athleticism to compete in the NFL with solid times in the 40-yard dash (4.52-4.57) - an improvement of nearly a tenth of a second from his fastest time at the Combine. Thomas, who was not invited to Indianapolis, also ran well (4.52-4.61) and added an impressive 38" vertical jump and 10'4" broad jump.

Perhaps the most intriguing, however, was Bademosi, who was clocked at a startling 4.35 on his first 40 attempt and also demonstrated incredible explosiveness in the vertical (40") and broad jump (10'5"). Graded by some clubs as a corner and others as a developmental free safety prospect, Bademosi may have earned himself a draft selection with his effort Thursday.

Whalen, also not invited to the Combine, wasn't particularly explosive in timed drills - running between 4.55-4.62 in his two 40-yard dash attempts - but showed terrific quickness in and out of his breaks. His consistent route-running was mentioned by more than one scout attending the workout as similar to the sharp cutting ability that helped 2011 undrafted free agent Doug Baldwin emerge as the Seattle Seahawks' leading receiver as a rookie (51 catches for 788 yards).

Defensive lineman Matt Masifilo also turned heads. Measuring in at 6-3 (1/2) and 300 pounds, he posted a surprisingly quick 5.12 time in the 40-yard dash and proved the strongest of Stanford's prospects Thursday, posting 38 reps on the bench press.

 

[Faust]

2012 NFL Draft Pro Day Tracker

(six pages and counting...)

 

[Faust]

Sleeper WRs create buzz with 'unbelievable' pro day efforts

By Rob Rang | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

The athletic testing done at the scouting combine and pro days are really about just two things for scouts: confirming the athleticism see on tape from prospects already deemed draftworthy and identifying athletes who may have flown underthe radar. With spectacular pro day workouts that rival (or beat) some of the bestput forth this year, two sleeper receiver prospects are creating a huge buzz inthe scouting community.

Tiny Huntingdon College (Alabama) is not exactly considered a hotbed for NFL talent so when wide receiver Cody Pearcy worked out for scouts a few weeks ago, he went to the Alabama State pro day. There, a handful of scouts (including at least one representative from the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins) watched the Huntingdon's career receptions leader put forth a workout that one scout, upon hearing of the numbers, characterized as an "unbelievable" effort.

Pearcy is certainly smaller than scouts would prefer at 5-feet-10, 161 pounds, but his numbers otherwise were off the charts. Pearcy was clocked as fast as 4.31 seconds in the 40-yard dash, posted a 44-inch vertical jump -- each of which would have led all combine participants this year. Pearcy also recorded a 6.67 time in the three-cone drill and 3.76 seconds in short shuttle -- the fastest time in recent NFL history, according to NFL.com's Combine Tracker. The fastest time recorded in this event at the combine since 2006 came when former University of Tennessee defensive back Jason Allen was clocked at 3.81 seconds. Allen, by the way, was drafted with the No. 16 overall pick by the Miami that year. He's now a member of the Cincinnati Bengals.

As his statistics prove, Pearcy is hardly just a track athlete. He had 46 receptions for 766 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior and finished as the program's career leader in receptions (147), receiving yards (2,632) and receiving touchdowns (25). He also holds the school-record for receiving yards in a game (233) and a season (1,078).

As if Pearcy's numbers weren't impressive enough, this week another startling workout was turned in by a lightly regarded receiver, which could force scouts to reevaluate their rankings.

South Dakota State wideout Dale Moss, 6-3 and 213 pounds, was clocked between 4.38-4.45 seconds in the 40-yard dash. He also posted a 41.5-inch vertical and a 10-10 broad jump, demonstrating exciting explosiveness. Perhaps most impressive was the burst and change of direction ability Moss showed during shuttle drills. Rarely are taller athletes capable of pivoting as fluidly as shorter athletes, but that is precisely what Moss did, clocking in at a stunning 6.32 seconds in the three-cone drill and 4.08 seconds in the short-shuttle.

Just as Pearcy's time in the short shuttle would have ranked as the best in recent NFL history (at least among those results taken at the combine), Moss' effort in the three-cone drill also would have led all 2012 combine participants and is faster than the numbers put forth last year by former Oregon wide receiver Jeff Maehl, who led all 2011 prospects with a 6.42 second time.

Moss is a particularly intriguing athlete because he only has one year of football experience. His first four years at SDSU were spent on the basketball team (he averaged 7.6 points and 5.4 rebounds in 2010-11) before he emerged as the Jackrabbits' leading receiver in 2011, catching 61 passes for 949 yards and six touchdowns.

Obviously scouts will have to do more homework on these two athletes to warrant using a draft pick on them. But considering the incredible upside each appears to possess, don't be surprised if both ultimately hear their names called on the draft's third day.

 

[Xue]

Dale Moss Pro Day:

 

[Macdaddy_2004]

Is there a consensus rookie ranking somewhere? Dynasty drafts are sneaking up on us..........

 

[eaglesfan7]

Macdaddy

Try this: http://forums.footballguys.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=637234

 

[Faust]

Rang's Gang: Favorite underrated prospects at every position

By Rob Rang | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

Excerpt:

In scouting hundreds of players in preparation for the NFL Draft, it's impossible not to develop some favorites.

"Rang's Gang" is the collective answer to the question I'm most often asked: "If you were running a team and you needed a (insert position), who would you take?"

There's only one rule -- no first-round prospects allowed. Anyone can compile a list of the top players per position.

The players that make up Rang's Gang are underrated, come from smaller programs or will make their impact in the NFL through hustle, determination and doing all the little things.

Others make the team simply because I've developed an affinity for the way they play the game.

QB: Kirk Cousins, Michigan State, 6-3, 214, 4.93

Tough, smart and with better athletic tools than many give him credit for, Cousins may just be the quarterback from the 2012 draft class who makes a late rise up draft boards similar to the one Andy Dalton enjoyed a year ago. Cousins lacks the elite tools that will make Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III and Ryan Tannehill first-round picks, but this four-year starter has faced top competition in a pro-style offense and, as such, is relatively pro-ready.

RB: Doug Martin, Boise State, 5-09, 223, 4.55

In terms of media coverage, Martin was overshadowed throughout much of his career by record-breaking quarterback Kellen Moore, but talent evaluators recognize his value to Boise State's success over the years. A natural runner with vision, burst and surprising power, Martin is my No. 2 rated running back behind only Alabama's Trent Richardson.

TE: Orson Charles, Georgia, 6-3, 251, 4.79

A surprisingly poor time in the 40-yard dash and a DUI arrest may scare off some, but Charles' tape is simply too good for me to overlook. He's a much more physical and passionate blocker than you'd think given his size and despite his poor timed speed, Charles was a matchup nightmare in the SEC.

WR: Marvin Jones, California, 6-2, 199, 4.46

I'll be the first to admit that I initially underrated Jones, though the poor quarterback play at Cal had a lot to do with it. Possessing good size, the strength to fight through tackles and enough speed to run away from them, Jones might have been a star elsewhere but his 2011 season at Cal didn't result in eye-popping statistics. Jones, however, was the most impressive receiver at the Senior Bowl. I haven't been this pleasantly surprised with a receiver from the Pac-12 (or Pac-10) in Mobile since some guy from Oregon State named Chad Johnson used the senior all-star game as a springboard into the second round of the 2001 draft.

WR: Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers, 6-2, 211, 4.67

Unlike Jones, Sanu has stood out on tape throughout his entire collegiate career. Unfortunately, also unlike Jones, Sanu has since slipped down draft boards because of poor workouts. I love Sanu's size, physicality and ability to line up inside or out. Say all you'd like about his poor time in the 40-yard dash at the combine, when he emerges as a quality starter early in his pro career, don't expect me to be surprised.

Slot WR: Devon Wylie, Fresno State, 5-09, 187, 4.39

Due to the proliferation of three- and four-receiver sets in the NFL, the specialization and need for slot receivers is greater than ever. The explosive Wylie ranks among this year's top prospects at the position. I'd like to see him catch the ball with greater consistency, but he's tough enough to handle playing inside and possesses the quickness to elude and speed to make the big play after the catch.

 

[Faust]

Q&A with draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki

Posted March 28, 2012 @ 3:34 p.m. ET

By PFW staff

Selected excerpts:

PFW draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki held a conference call with national media on Wednesday and answered questions about the upcoming NFL draft. Here is an excerpt of some of Nolan’s responses.

Q: Do you see any way that Robert Griffin III could go No. 1, and if not, how big is the gap between he and Andrew Luck?

Nawrocki: To me, there is a considerable gap. I think Andrew Luck is the most polished quarterback to come out of the NFL draft in a long time, as long as I’ve been doing this. One of the best decision makers, I think he has an outstanding command of the game — a very unique pedigree, tremendous football intelligence. He’s got everything you want in a quarterback, accuracy, everything is there. It’s all in front of him. The difference between Luck and Griffin to me is Griffin’s ceiling is higher. The concerns I have with Griffin at quarterback is his accuracy (and) his feel in the pocket, I don’t think, is at the same level as Luck’s is. I’m not sure that it will ever get to the same place that Luck’s is. (Griffin’s) got outstanding athletic ability, makes plays in the pocket and is very dynamic. The other concern I have is his health. He’s shown before in the past that he has had difficulty staying healthy. He is more of a straight-linish type of runner, and I think that’s going to be difficult to stay healthy in the pros once he’s moving outside. He’s not very elusive, he’s more straight-linish and I think he’s going to have a difficult time getting out of the way of contact on the perimeter. For that reason, I think there is higher risk involved with the pick. I think the Colts made up their mind months ago and I think they know which way they’re going.

Q: Who are some of the receivers who might be available to the 49ers at pick No. 30? Do you think Kendall Wright could possibliy slip that far to the end of the first round?

Nawrocki: The main receivers, Justin Blackmon and Michael Floyd, won’t be sitting there late in the first round. Those clearly are the top two. There are some concerns about the character of both. That is one common theme throughout this receiving class — all of them have some concerns off the field. I’d put Kendall Wright in that category. He’s a little bit too emotional. His work ethic came into question after his pro day. He bench-pressed 225 pounds only four times. For that reason alone, I think there’s a chance he easily could be sitting there at 30. I don’t know if he will slip that far, but I know there are teams that have him sitting in the second, even third round after that workout that pushed him down the board. I think there’s a good chance that Rueben Randle could be sitting there staring at the 49ers. You can find (wide receivers) anywhere in this draft so I don’t know if the 49ers need to reach for one that early.

Q: For the Falcons at No. 55, they can go a couple different directions. (Where do you think they will go)?



Nawrocki: I know they’ve been looking to replace Tony Gonzalez for years. They’d like to try to find someone. The trouble this year is there really is not a lot of depth at that tight end position. I would be surprised if Coby Fleener is still around. They can take a chance at the juniors from Georgia or Clemson, Orson Charles or Dwayne Allen. I think it’s more likely they’re going to be looking at offensive and defensive lines, I think those are the highest priorities on that team. They really struggled on the offensive line a year ago. They have to figure out what they want to be on that line. They have a hodgepodge of guys that don’t truly fit a power-blocking scheme. They’re not necessarily a zone-movement type either. I think they really have to solidify what they want to become. I think they’d like to get bigger and be able to establish the run game. I could see them concentrating on the offensive line. The guard from Miami of Ohio, Brandon Brooks, who was not invited to the Combine — after his pro day, I think there’s a good chance he’ll get into the second round and I think he’d be an ideal fit for a team like the Falcons.

...

Q: Would you take one of this year’s quarterbacks over Colt McCoy (if you ran the Browns)?

Nawrocki: It really comes down to philosophical questions. You’ve got to look at the full picture and the overall needs on that team. It’s a little bit of a loaded question. If you're looking at this year’s draft for what they do, if I were running the Browns, I would be looking for more size at that position. I would try to convert the offense they’re trying to run to go to more of a power-based type of scheme, just because that’s what is winning right now. That’s what the Steelers have done and largely what the Ravens have done, and that’s not what (the Browns) have at their quarterback position. You look at Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco — they have the arm strength, they have the toughness, they have the size and that big-play flair. That’s what really makes those offenses and the quarterbacks in that division, a black-and-blue division, you’ve got to deal with the weather. I’d come at it a little differently than Mike Holmgren has. They decided to use more of a precision-based, West Coast-timing, rhythm passing game. If you look at this year’s draft, the guy that stands out after Luck, to me, in that category is Kirk Cousins from Michigan State. I think he’s the best fit. He’ll probably sit in there early in the second round. He’d make a lot of sense for the Browns. Let him develop. To me, on tape, he’s a bit too over-analytical. He just thought too much. I've got a feeling that whoever they take, Mike Holmgren will spend some time with him, make him his pet project, make sure that talent is developed well. I can see Holmgren playing a part with whomever they bring along. I think he’d have a very easy time working with a player like Kirk Cousins. To me, he’s the guy that really stands out.

 

[Faust]

Alabama pro day will feature five potential first-round picks

By Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Analyst

There are a few schools lauded in the scouting community for their ability to consistently develop pro-caliber players, and Alabama has been at the top of the list since Nick Saban arrived in 2007. The former NFL head coach runs his program like a pro team, so scouts tend to favor Crimson Tide players due to their extensive preparation.

From understanding the nuances of film study to executing a game plan that mirrors the complexities of a pro call sheet, Alabama players have routinely been able to make immediate contributions as rookies because the game is not too big for them at the NFL level. This was confirmed in a conversation with Marcell Dareus last fall, when he attributed his rookie success to learning how to prepare as a pro under Saban.

Given the importance of identifying prospects with the ability to make immediate contributions, scouts are paying close attention to a handful of prospects set to work out at Alabama's pro day Thursday.

After poring over several game tapes, I believe there are five Alabama prospects carrying first-round grades heading into the final phase of the evaluation process for the 2012 NFL Draft. However, each player faces questions that could affect draft position. Here is what I will look for when I watch these five prospects work out in front of evaluators Thursday:

Trent Richardson, RB: Richardson is regarded as the top running back prospect in 2012 draft class, but he hasn't worked out since recovering from knee surgery following the season. Although his standing at the top of the RB class isn't in jeopardy, Richardson can cement his status as a top-10 pick with a strong showing on the field Thursday. Scouts will want to check out his speed, quickness and agility in a series of position drills to see if his explosiveness in person matches what he has shown on tape. In addition, evaluators want to see how well Richardson catches the ball out of the backfield. He has amassed 58 receptions over the course of his career, but he doesn't appear to be a natural pass catcher capable of being featured in the passing game. Given the shift of the NFL from a run-first league to one dominated by the pass, Richardson needs to be a factor in all aspects to warrant consideration as a special player at the position.

Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB: Upshaw was one of Alabama's most disruptive defenders, routinely dominating the competition in big games. He excels at creating havoc off the edges and is adept at producing game-changing plays against the run or pass. While he occasionally flashes first-step quickness to defeat blockers, Upshaw's game is built upon strength and power. However, his physical dimensions (6-foot-2, 272 pounds) could put him at a disadvantage against NFL offensive tackles, and he doesn't appear to have elite speed or burst. He also doesn't appear to have the athleticism to spend an inordinate amount of time dropping into coverage or playing in space. That's why scouts need to put him through the paces to see if he is best suited as a 4-3 defensive end or playing from an upright stance in a 3-4. To convince evaluators he's worthy of a lofty draft slot, he must run well and look smoother in transitions than he did at the NFL Scouting Combine. If he fails to impress, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Upshaw fall to the bottom of the first round by draft day.

Mark Barron, S: Barron is the cleanest safety prospect in the draft. He is a rare deep middle player with the ability to contribute as a ball hawk while also showing the physicality and toughness to be an effective defender near the line of scrimmage. Although those critical factors have pushed Barron into mid-first-round consideration, scouts need to determine if he possesses the athleticism, movement skills and footwork to effectively cover tight ends in man coverage. Barron's recovery from double hernia surgery might keep him from fully participating at the pro day, but he will need to put his skills on display at private workouts to convince teams he has the goods to be a difference maker at the position.



Dre Kirkpatrick, CB: Kirkpatrick was once viewed as a lock to be the second corner off the board in this draft (behind LSU's Morris Claiborne), but scouts are increasingly concerned about his speed and movement skills. Though he posted times in the high 4.4 range at the combine, evaluators aren't convinced that he plays to that speed on tape. In addition, some coaches have expressed concerns about his ability to fit into various schemes due to his extensive experience in press-bail coverage. Therefore, he will undergo an intensive positional workout to gauge his athleticism, quickness and technical skills. Scouts will gauge how well he can hold up in isolated matchups on the perimeter by watching him backpedal, break-and-drive and execute a series of turns and transitions. With others at the position (South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore and North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins) pushing hard for the No. 2 spot, Kirkpatrick has to respond to the pressure with a great workout in front of scouts.

Dont'a Hightower, ILB: Hightower's stock is on the rise following his impressive workout at the combine. He surprised coaches and scouts with his quickness and athleticism, and displayed better movement skills than anyone anticipated prior to his workout. To build upon that momentum, Hightower will need to put on a standout performance in positional drills. Teams will want to see if he can be a versatile three-down linebacker capable of providing a pass-rushing presence on third down to complement his role as a run stuffer on early downs. Additionally, coaches will want to see if he is comfortable covering running backs and tight ends in space. Hightower seemingly addressed those concerns with his showing in Indianapolis, but an encore performance could vault him into consideration as a top-20 pick.

 

[Wadsworth]

Love this thread. You rock.

 

[Multiple Scores]

Not sure this was mentioned, Kendall Wright managed only 4 reps on the bench, so you read it right the number is "Four".

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Not sure this was mentioned, Kendall Wright managed only 4 reps on the bench, so you read it right the number is "Four".

wow thats terrible. I remember LeSean McCoy had like the worst combine ever though

 

[Faust]

2012 NFL draft countdown: SN's No. 29 prospect, Oklahoma State QB Brandon Weeden

Russ Lande Sporting News

This is the 12th in a daily series of in-depth evaluations on the top 40 prospects leading up to the April 26-28 draft. Today: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State.

Strengths: Weeden has the potential to become a quality starting quarterback despite concerns about his age; he turns 29 in October. He has a strong arm and the ability to make NFL throws with excellent zip and accuracy. (Vital statistics: 6-4, 221, 4.95 in the 40-yard dash)

Weeden is a good athlete who can slide within the pocket to avoid sacks. As a result, he will not force passes into bad spots. Weeden's passing accuracy helps receivers avoid big hits by placing the ball in certain spots.

While his age will limit the length of his football career, it will help him deal with the NFL in terms of maturity. Weeden's five seasons playing minor league baseball gives him valuable life experience to deal with the ups and downs of being a professional athlete.

Weaknesses: Obviously, Weeden’s age is the biggest concern. On the field, having played in Oklahoma State’s wide-open short passing attack limited the amount of downfield throws. Therefore, Weeden must prove he can be as productive when the bulk of his throws are five or more yards down the field.

Weeden has a slight hitch at the back of his delivery. This leads to defensive backs getting a head start closing on his passes and defensive linemen being able to get their hands up for tipped balls.

Draft status: Although Weeden is a gifted passer who has first-round skills, he will likely be selected in the second round. His strong arm and accuracy will help him to become a quality starter. Because of his maturity, he should be able to secure a starting job as a rookie.

If the Cleveland Browns or Miami Dolphins do not draft quarterback Ryan Tannehill in the first round, they will consider using their second-round pick on Weeden.

Additionally, if Weeden slides to the middle of the second round, the Philadelphia Eagles would be interested since Michael Vick struggles to stay healthy. Weeden is a more talented quarterback than current Eagles backup Mike Kafka. The fact the Eagles took a flier on Trent Edwards shows they want to find a high quality backup for the 2012 season.

 

[Faust]

Who is the draft's fourth-best QB: Cousins, Osweiler or Weeden?

Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III and Ryan Tannehill have established themselves as the top three QBs in the 2012 NFL Draft. But who will be the fourth QB off the board (Kirk Cousins? Brock Osweiler? Brandon Weeden?), when will he go and who will take him?

Steve Wyche NFL.com

Cousins could be nice project for Eagles, Packers

Though there has been a lot of talk about Weeden and Osweiler, I think Cousins will be the next QB off the board after Luck, Griffin and Tannehill. Weeden's age (28) and Osweiler's question marks might not make them prototypical backups, in terms of the grooming process.

I'm not sure any of the remaining QBs get selected until the third round. There are two teams that tend to draft quarterbacks that I'd look for as possible landing spots for Cousins: Green Bay and Philadelphia. Both tend to replenish the quarterback pool regularly through the draft and I could see them using a third- or fourth-round pick to go that route again.

Chad Reuter NFL.com

Osweiler makes sense in Denver, learning under Manning

I'll go with Brock Osweiler, who made a stir with the talent he displayed during his pro day last Friday. His 15 collegiate starts might turn off some teams, as will his 6-foot-7 frame; it's difficult to ignore the lackluster play of tall NFL quarterbacks from the past like former Seattle Seahawks first-rounder Dan McGwire. Osweiler's upside and youth could actually help earn him higher grades from some teams than Oklahoma State's talented-but-over-aged Brandon Weeden (who turns 29 in October).

Arizona State's first-ever 4,000-yard passer has better athleticism than most tall signal-callers, as he was a former high school basketball recruit who committed to Gonzaga before turning his attention to football. Though still not fit for a movement system, Osweiler can learn to move within the pocket and deliver an accurate ball with velocity to every spot on the field. His pocket-passing game would make him a nice fit as a second-round pick for Denver, where he can utilize his strengths and learn behind new Broncos offensive leader Peyton Manning. The future Hall of Famer's multiple neck surgeries and age might lead the team to find a young apprentice sooner than later.

Bucky Brooks NFL.com

Weeden has all the tools, and his age should be viewed as an asset

Brandon Weeden should be the fourth quarterback taken in the 2012 NFL Draft. He has all of the physical tools to emerge as a highly productive starter. He has one of the strongest arms in the draft and excels at making NFL-caliber throws at every level. His ability to put zip on every throw allows him to squeeze balls into tight windows, which is essential to success in the pro game. In addition, he shows good accuracy, touch and ball placement on throws within the 15-yard box designated as the sweet spot in most offenses.

Weeden's age has routinely been cited as a point of concern by evaluators, but his maturity and natural leadership skills should be viewed as an asset. Rather than stepping into the huddle overwhelmed by the NFL, Weeden will likely appear undaunted by the big stage following his time as a minor league player for a few MLB teams. Although that doesn't ensure immediate success for Weeden, it could give him a leg up on the competition among second-tier quarterbacks.

Charley Casserly NFL.com

Fourth QB won't come off board until third round

After the first three fly off the board on Thursday night, I don't believe we'll see another QB taken until the third round. Weeden has first-round ability, but his age works against him. Both Cousins and Osweiler are mid-round prospects due to the inconsistency of their performances.

If a team wants more immediate help, it will go with Weeden. I believe Cousins will be taken ahead of Osweiler based on superior talent, but not before the third round.

Adam Rank NFL.com

In typical fashion, Dolphins could reach for Weeden

Brock Osweiler knocked the socks off scouts during his pro day, and he should grab the attention of a team with a veteran quarterback who can take some time to groom a quarterback of the future like the Broncos or Chiefs. But Brandon Weeden seems like a better fit for Kansas City, because it needs a polished quarterback who is ready to start right away -- not a project.

That said, I look for the Dolphins to move down in the draft to pick up some extra picks and grab Weeden (assuming the Browns go with Ryan Tannehill at No. 4). Although, that scenario is a savvy football move, meaning the Dolphins won't do that. Instead they'll just draft Weeden with the No. 8 pick -- an overdraft so severe, even Christian Ponder and the Vikings would find it laughable.

Jason Smith NFL.com

Osweiler in the first? Don't be surprised in QB-crazed NFL

It's Osweiler. There's buzz about him after his pro day, while there's little chatter about the other two. I don't think it means he goes early, but he'll come off the board somewhere in the latter part of the first round, and he'll be allowed to sit, watch and develop, since he only started 15 games in college. I'm rooting for the kid because he took a risk by making tough throws at his pro day, and I love guts. But I'm also a realist, and this is part of a bigger discussion.

We're going to start seeing this every year: Quarterbacks getting taken way earlier than they should, simply because no one wants to miss out on someone who could be the next great one. Everyone has to have one or get left behind. As a result, teams will reach where they shouldn't. We saw it last year (Blaine Gabbert, Christian Ponder), and we'll see it this year and on and on. Osweiler is the perfect example. Suddenly he's a star in the making after 45 minutes of working out in front of scouts? That means more than his body of work for his entire career? Teams have to realize they can't will someone into being great, or talk themselves into a move that will need to be re-done in three years.

Dave Dameshek NFL.com

Browns would be smart to pass on Tannehill, grab Weeden

If the Browns are wise, they'll leave Ryan Tannehill for the Dolphins, take Justin Blackmon at No. 4, and then grab Brandon Weeden -- Blackmon's 28-year-old pal from Stillwater -- early in the second.

It's understandable why teams who don't have a top-tier QB are desperate to get one. That doesn't mean, though, that drafting guys like Cousins or Osweiler (or for that matter, reaching on a guy like Tannehill in the top 10) will magically transform their respective skills to justify use of a first-round pick.

 

[Faust]

Peter King MMQB Excerpt:

Tweet of the Week II

"Watched 5 gms of Cousins. Disappointed. Saw limited passer w/average arm strength. Needed functional space to throw. Plant + throw passer ... Would need to be highly managed by scheme.''

-- @gregcosell of NFL Films, whose double-tweet analysis of Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins -- going against the grain of so many draftniks in love with Cousins -- is one of the reasons his Twitter analysis is so vital to people who follow the draft: He just goes by what he sees on tape, nothing else.

 

[Faust]

2012 NFL draft countdown: SN's No. 23 prospect, Virginia Tech RB David Wilson

Russ Lande Sporting News

This is the 18th in a daily series of in-depth evaluations on the top 40 prospects leading up to the 2012 NFL Draft, which runs April 26-28. Today: David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech.



Strengths: Wilson is a remarkably athletic and sudden back who rushed for 1,709 yards rushing in his first season as a starter. He's expected to be either a late first- or high second-round pick. (Vital statistics: 5-10, 206 pounds, 4.43 in the 40-yard dash)

Unlike many quick and agile backs, Wilson doesn't dance around waiting for a huge hole. He does an excellent job of sticking a foot in the ground and attacking the line fast once he sees a crease.

For a back who lacks great bulk, he is productive as an inside runner. Wilson runs with great pad level, low center of gravity and good contact balance within the box. These traits allow him to run through arm-tackle attempts, gaining yards after contact.

Wilson is a special runner on the perimeter who makes game-changing plays once he gets into the open field. He has excellent acceleration and speed to get to the corner. Against Clemson last season, Wilson showed he can change directions in a flash to make tacklers miss.

In addition, he made numerous big plays as a kick returner, averaging nearly 22 yards per return in his career, including two for touchdowns in 2010.

As a receiver, Wilson has soft hands. His body control and hand/eye coordination help him make tough catches seem easy.

Weaknesses: Wilson doesn't protect the ball well as evidenced last season by his seven fumbles (losing four of them). He must improve his ball protection if he's going to get playing time.

While at Virginia Tech, despite having good hands and being a great runner after the catch, Wilson usually came off the field in passing situations. He is poor in pass protection because he lacks size, has bad technique and doesn't give a good effort. Wilson must greatly improve to be a three-down back. His inability to pass block effectively could limit his playing time.

Draft status: Wilson is the most dynamic back in this year’s draft. His size might cause teams to pass on him in the first round, but Wilson's potential to make big plays every time he touches the ball will limit his slide. If Wilson can improve in pass protection, he could make a similar impact as current Philadelphia Eagles star LeSean McCoy.

In the later part of the first round, the Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos could take Wilson. If the Browns pass on Trent Richardson, the draft's top running back, with the No. 4 overall pick, they could take Wilson to replace Peyton Hillis.

Despite the Broncos' recent addition of Peyton Manning, coach John Fox believes in a strong rushing attack. So, with 30-year-old Willis McGahee and disappointing Knowshon Moreno, Wilson seems a likely choice for the Broncos.

If Wilson slips out of the first round, both the St. Louis Rams and Indianapolis Colts will likely be interested. Steven Jackson has been a great back for the Rams, but he'll be 29 in July. The Rams must find a long-term replacement.

The Colts recently released longtime back Joseph Addai. In addition, Donald Brown has yet to develop. Wilson, as an explosive and big-play back, would give the Colts a strong rushing attack to support to the quarterback they take with the No. 1 pick, Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III.

 

[Faust]

Small-school wideout works his way into pro day sensation

Monday April 02, 2012 - 12:59 PM

By Frank Cooney | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

When Huntingdon College wide receiver Cody Pearcy decided last Christmas he needed money to pay for a personal trainer, he knew it would not be gift-wrapped under the tree. To get it, he would need to do what he has always done -- work for it.

So while carrying a full academic load the Montgomery, Ala., school, he worked weekends as a roofer and saved as much of his allowance as possible until he could hire Alex Aucoin of Warehouse Performance in Montgomery.

Their goal was to have Pearcy as ready as possible to perform for NFL scouts at a March pro day workout. They had three and a half weeks. The result shocked everybody as Pearcy, an unknown athlete from a little-known school, turned in one of the best pro football workouts of this century.

It included great numbers in the well-known events, such as 4.31 seconds in 40 yards, 44 inches in the vertical jump and 10 feet, six inches in the broad jump. He also had a 20-yard split time of 2.43 seconds, a 20-yard shuttle of 3.76 seconds and did the three-cone agility drill in 6.67 seconds.

Pearcy was not among the elite athletes invited to the NFL's scouting combine in February. If he managed the same results there, he would have been the star of the event, this year or any year.

Since 2000, 4,638 players have been invited to the combine. Pearcy's 20-yard split and 20-yard shuttle times would tie for third best. His vertical jump would tie for sixth best and his 40-yard time would tie for 11th best.

And suddenly Pearcy is far from unknown. The videos of his workout gained a cult following on YouTube as news traveled fast among football fans and draftnicks. Data from that workout piqued the interest of NFL teams who previously didn't know his name. On Thursday he worked out for the Indianapolis Colts, one of eight teams that quickly scheduled time to see him in person.

"Yes, sir, I know there are no guarantees, so I am just happy they are looking at me," Pearcy told NFLDraftScout.com. The "Sir" is a constant in his speech and a direct reflection of how he was raised.

"I'm grateful I was able to get some training because I learned a lot from Alex," he said. "Everything came together just right. All of my results at the pro day workout were life bests."

At a little over 5-10 and 161 pounds, Pearcy knows he must continue to make a big impression. But at the very least he should be invited to some teams' training camp for a closer look. Or if a team is impressed enough by his workouts and game tapes, there's an outside chance somebody will draft him.

Pearcy is rated as a priority free agent by NFLDraftScout.com, meaning he should expect to be signed as a free agent as soon as the draft ends. If, of course, he isn't selected in the draft.

At Huntingdon College, a small Methodist school in Montgomery that only established a football program in 2003, Pearcy made a statement as a junior when he caught 51 passes for 1,078 yards -- more than 21 yards per catch -- and a dozen touchdowns. Last season, playing also as a returner and defensive back, Pearcy caught 46 passes for 766 yards and eight more scores.

His athletic ability was evident at Glenwood High in his hometown of Phenix City, Ala., about an hour's drive from Montgomery. He starred on back-to-back AISA State championship basketball teams, one AISA State Championship soccer team and was the football team's Defensive Player of the Year as a senior. He was also on the golf team.

But there was nothing to indicate he could turn in an elite performance in a pro day workout. Well, nothing except Pearcy's belief in himself.

"I knew I was improving on my own each year, but felt if I just had a little training I might get some really good results," he said.

Aucoin, who has trained hundreds of athletes, said there didn't seem to be anything special about Pearcy when he showed up in search of training.

"He looked like a normal kid off the street, but as soon as he moved you could tell he had a lot of firepower and needed direction," Aucoin said. "He is much stronger than he appears. He is wound tight and ready to explode."

But even during training Aucoin did not see the types of marks Pearcy managed at the pro day.

"We timed him at the end of workouts, so he was not fresh," Aucoin said. "And our 40-yard run is a little longer than 40 yards, by about a foot and a half, so they have more incentive to improve their time. I think he did a 4.45 on our 40-plus."

Cody did have a few believers before the newsworthy workout -- his parents, sister and older half brother.

"He was a born athlete, always very fast," said Mike Pearcy, Cody's father. "He played baseball and soccer when he was young because his mother didn't want him getting hurt in football. But we convinced her it was OK when he was about in the eighth grade."

Mike, himself raised "as a military brat," and Cody's mother, Cynthia -- known as Deanie by friends and family -- runs a tight ship at home. As long as Cody and his younger sister Casey carry a full academic load and get good grades in college, they get a small allowance to get by. If they want something extra, they need to work for it.

"Our children know there are no free rides," Mike Pearcy said. "They earned academic scholarships to pay half their tuition and we help as long as they do their part. Casey is getting ready to go to dental school. And I believe in Cody and support him, but if he doesn't make it, he will have a business degree and he has always known how to work.

"He was 13 years old when he first went to work for a friend in the roofing business. If he wanted something he worked for it. Last year it was a used bass boat. This year, it was to do his best to get a shot at pro football. We know it's a million to one shot, this pro football. If he makes it, that's great. We're already proud of him, regardless."

 

[gump]

Apparently Mo Claiborne scored a 4 on his Wonderlic.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/03/claiborne-gives-birth-to-a-four-on-the-wonderlic/

 

[Faust]

Simms: Luck a QB lock, but RG3 and Tannehill bring a lot to Draft table

By Pat Kirwan | NFL Insider

I had a chance to spend time talking about the 2012 quarterbacks in the draft with Phil Simms today and I intend to meet with him a few more ties before the draft.

His evaluation of Andrew Luck was interesting to say the least. He likened Luck to Ben Roethlisberger. He sees the same qualities to break a tackle and recreate a pass play in the second phase. As Simms said, "Luck can make four or five easy completions a game because of his size and athletic ability."

As for Robert Griffin he laughed at those who say he can only run the Baylor spread offense. In fact Simms called those comments stupid.

Phil believes Griffin can make all the throws and is especially impressive when having to throw when off-balance.

Finally, Simms had some strong positive comments about Ryan Tannehill and his potential. Simms thinks he's a better prospect coming out than Jake Locker, Christian Ponder or Blaine Gabbert -- all taken in the first round in the 2011 Draft.

"With a little tweaking in his mechanics he may be one of the most dangerous throwers down the road." Simms said.

Phil and I agreed that playing QB for only a year and a half actually becomes a positive when you think about what Tannehill accomplished in such a short period of time.

 

[Faust]

2012 NFL draft countdown: SN's No. 22 prospect, LSU WR Rueben Randle

Russ Lande

Sporting News

This is the 19th in a daily series of in-depth evaluations on the top 40 prospects leading up to the 2012 NFL Draft, which runs April 26-28. Today: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

Strengths: Randle, a junior early entry for the draft, has great speed and athleticism. That includes quick feet and rare acceleration for such a big receiver. He combines that with good hands and competes hard for the ball.

Randle quickly closes the cushion on cornerbacks who line up in off coverage against him. Because of his speed, he can outrun corners to create separation on deep routes. That allowed him average 17.3 yards per catch last season in an LSU offense that didn't pass well.

On deep passes, Randle can make tough over-the-shoulder catches and snags the ball well along the sidelines. The quality of his hands separates him from many tall receivers, as he makes tough catches seem routine. Evaluators often overlook this crucial skill as their attention is focused on a player's speed.

So he can create space on short, quick-hitting routes, Randle uses his hands and strength to push off slightly. He aggressively runs routes into traffic, catches passes without peeking at the defense and quickly tucks the ball away. This enables him to hold on to the ball when he is hit after the catch.

Randle gets started downfield quickly after the catch. He can also break through the first wave of tackling attempts. He has the size, strength and balance to run through would-be grab tackles to gain yards after contact.

After running his initial route, Randle is impressive in the way he continues his route and works to get open. When his quarterback is flushed from the pocket, he supports him by working back to him. Randle's size, strength and effort enable him to be a productive blocker, eliminating his man from plays. (Vital statistics: 6-3, 210 pounds, 4.45 in the 40-yard dash)

Weaknesses: Randle tends to be slightly upright running his routes, which limits his ability to quickly get in and out of cuts. He must be more flexible in this regard. He is more effective on downfield routes such as skinny posts, corner routes and go routes as opposed to those that require sharp cuts.

He must improve at using his hands to better fight through cornerbacks' jams. If he doesn't, he will have trouble dealing with NFL cornerbacks who excel in press coverage.

Draft status: Randle will be a first-round pick because of his great hands, elite speed and dangerous run-after-catch ability. His skills are unique and in high demand. Rookie receivers often struggle as they are mandated to simultaneously read the defense and adjust their route in sync with quarterback. Because Randle did not play in a high-end college passing attack, he will need to prove himself in that area.