[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (1 Viewer)

[ShaHBucks]

2014 Shrine Game: Top-10 prospects to watch

By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

January 12, 2014 2:03 am ET

1. QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois (6-2, 222, 4.78, #10)

The quarterback who broke most of Tony Romo's school passing records, Garoppolo is much more than a funny looking last name. He isn't the biggest and lacks a huge arm, but he has an above average understanding of offensive football and uses his quick eyes and touch to push the ball downfield. Garoppolo is not only considered the top quarterback in this game, but he might be the best overall prospect.2. [URL="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737669/ej-gaines"]http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737669/ej-gaines]

He is a better QB than Bortles, Manziel and Carr.

 

[Faust]

J. Hill LSU is declaring for the draft

Like this guy. kind of a moron, but this makes the draft class better

Smart move with the shelf life of a RB in the NFL typically being so short and with the risk of injury if he returned for another college season.

Rotoworld take:

LSU redshirt sophomore RB Jeremy Hill will declare for the 2014 NFL Draft.

All signs pointed to Hill staying, with many reporting he wanted to repay the trust Les Miles displayed during the offseason. An off-field altercation ultimately ended in the running back being suspended, but he was reinstated early in the season by the coach and the team. Hill is a big back who falls forward. There are weeks when he goes down on first contact, but others where he plows through defenders. He could be a second day selection.


Source: Jeremy Hill on Twitter

 

[Faust]

LSU Tigers RB Jeremy Hill tweets he'll enter 2014 NFL Draft

By Chase Goodbread

College Football 24/7 writer

LSU running back Jeremy Hill took to Twitter on Monday to declare his eligibility for the 2014 NFL Draft, a surprise move based on reports that Hill not only was leaning toward staying at the school, but had been working to convince LSU left tackle La'El Collins to stay as well.

Jeremy Hill @JeremyHill33 Follow

With all of that being said, I have decided to forego my Junior season and enter the 2014 NFL Draft. #GeauxTigers #33ToTheNFL #Blessed

Hill brings a great deal of talent, but a great deal of baggage as well, to the draft pool. He enjoyed a dominant season as a third-year sophomore, rushing 203 times for 1,401 yards and 16 touchdowns despite missing one game and part of another at the beginning of the season after being suspended for his second arrest. Hill recently completed terms of his first probation, which stemmed from a charge of unlawful carnal knowledge of an underage female. He was arrested again last spring after a cell phone video captured him sucker punching a bar patron from behind, and is scheduled to be on probation for that charge until July, 2015.

That means Hill, absent a judge's ruling to change his status, will be on probation for his entire rookie season in the NFL.

LSU already has lost two defensive tackles (Anthony Johnson, Ego Ferguson) and reportedly two wide receivers (Jarvis Landry, Odell Beckham) to early NFL draft entry. Collins, offensive guard Trai Turner and running back Alfred Blue also are considering leaving LSU early for the draft.

Hill (6-foot-2, 235 pounds) led LSU in rushing with 753 yards as a freshman in 2012. Although he has been enrolled at LSU for only two years, he is eligible for the draft because he is three years removed from high school. His last year at Baton Rouge (La.) Redemptorist High was 2010, but he sat out the 2011 season while dealing with legal matters stemming from his first arrest.

Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter @ChaseGoodbread.

 

[Faust]

Scouting report from NFLDraftScout.com and CBSSports.com:

Jeremy Hill, RB

Excerpt:

Overview

Hill was a Parade All-American coming out of Redemptorist High School in Baton Rouge, La., and stayed close to home to play for the Tigers.

He rushed for 755 yards and scored 12 touchdowns as a freshman in 2012 despite playing in a time share in LSU's loaded backfield.

While he has spent most of his career in a running back rotation at LSU, Hill earned first-team All-SEC honors by The Associated Press in 2013 after rushing for an average of 107.7 yards per game during the regular season. He was also voted to the second team by the coaches.

Analysis

STRENGTHS: Powerful downhill runner who finishes his runs. Lowers his shoulder, keeps his legs churning and spins off of contact, often gaining extra yardage after the initial hit.

Decisive runner. Attacks holes and gets downhill in a hurry. Efficient and fluid in his cuts, showing the ability to burst through the designed hole or skip laterally to attack another. Deceptive speed, including the ability to run away from defenders to create chunk plays. Impressive leaping ability to hurdle would-be tacklers.

Effective receiver out of the backfield with long arms, soft hands and good hand-eye coordination to track down short passes. Natural receiver who looks comfortable in the passing game, collecting and securing the ball in one easy, fluid motion.

WEAKNESSES: While obviously talented, Hill comes with plenty of red-flags, on and off the field. Has been used as part of a rotation throughout his career and ran behind one of the nation's best offensive lines. Runs higher than preferred, too often exposing his chest (and the ball) to the defender and simply attempting to run through them. Holds the ball with only one hand, often even when fighting through contact.

Doesn't possess ideal balance, too often stumbling or diving for what he can when a defender gets a hand on his lower leg. Inconsistent commitment as a pass blocker. Too often offers a lazy shoulder in pass protection, allowing defenders to slip past him.

Pleaded guilty on battery charges for an April, 2013 incident in which he was recorded on video assaulting a man outside of a bar. This charge came while he was on probation for December 2010 incident in which he engaged in a sexual act with a 14-year-old girl in the Redemptorist High School locker room.

COMPARES TO: LeGarrette Blount, New England Patriots - Considering their size, punishing downhill running style and, unfortunately, character red flags, Blount is an easy comparison for Hill. Hill is a better athlete than Blount and boasts superior vision, lateral agility and speed, which could lead him to earning much more of a featured role in the NFL than the time-share Blount has played in most of his NFL career. With commitment, Hill could be the second coming of Steven Jackson.

--Rob Rang

 

[Faust]

Auburn's Tre Mason leads 2014 NFL Draft's top running backs

By Gil Brandt

NFL Media senior analyst

There's a good chance that we will not see a running back drafted in the first round for the second year in a row. Go back about 75 years to the third draft in NFL history, when there were 10 teams in the league and nine of them picked a running back in the first round. You might say that times have changed.

It's not just that teams are throwing the ball more now than they did in the past. Their priorities have changed. The feeling among NFL teams now is that there are a lot of good running backs out there, and it's much easier to find them further down in the draft than a top quarterback, offensive lineman or defensive lineman. You could name any number of examples. This season in the NFL, two of the top offensive rookies in the league are running backs, Cincinnati's Giovani Bernard and Green Bay's Eddie Lacy, and both were drafted in the second round.

The call for running backs in the draft is not like it used to be, but that doesn't mean the talent is no longer there. My top running back in this year's draft is Auburn's Tre Mason, whom you might recall I compared to Cowboys great Tony Dorsett after his 304-yard rushing performance against Missouri in December. The Dorsett comparison had to do with Mason's unbelievable quickness -- he's the kind of back who can start and stop on a dime and leave you eight cents worth of change.

Nothing has changed about my evaluation of Mason in the last month. He had a fantastic season, ending it with a very good game against Florida State in the BCS championship game, rushing for 195 yards and scoring two touchdowns. What I like about Mason, besides that quickness, is that he performed so well in big games against good defenses. In five games against top-10 teams (including the BCS title game), he ran for 973 yards and nine touchdowns; he finished the season with 1,816 yards and 23 touchdowns.

He also became the first non-quarterback to lead Auburn in total offense since Bo Jackson did it in 1985. Anytime a guy racks up nearly 2,000 yards of offense while playing in the SEC, you're looking at a pretty productive player.

Mason recently received a third-round grade from the Draft Advisory Board. I would put him more around the second round. You would like to have a running back who's a little taller and heavier than Mason, but he's not a bad size for a running back, at about 5-foot-9, 205 pounds, and anyway, his speed makes up for whatever he lacks in size. It's also true that Auburn's offensive system helps players like Mason be productive, but I believe that his quickness and running ability will allow him to be very effective in whatever system he plays in.

I think Mason is the best running back in the draft. In terms of skills, he doesn't have to improve anything. He can catch the ball really well, he's got good vision and he's tough. I believe he will be a real threat as a runner in the NFL. And he can also do a lot of other things for you, including returning kicks.

Here are some of the other running backs I like in this draft who rank just below Mason:

Carlos Hyde, Ohio State: Hyde is very similar to Le'Veon Bell, the Pittsburgh Steelers rookie who was drafted out of Michigan State in the second round. His speed and quickness might not be off the charts, but he's a big back that can do everything pretty well, including catching the ball. He also has a skill not a lot of college backs have, and that's pass protection.

Devonta Freeman, Florida State: A true junior, Freeman is a short, compact runner who is very effective between the tackles, rushing for 1,016 yards on 5.9 yards per carry this season. He's also a good receiver, with 47 catches in his three seasons. He's built a lot like Redskins RB Alfred Morris but doesn't quite have the same skill set. I have him ranked ahead of teammate James Wilder Jr.

Lache Seastrunk, Baylor: Seastrunk was one of the main reasons Baylor's offense was so good this season. The Bears spread everyone out, giving a good inside-the-tackles runner like Seastrunk the opportunity to pick up big yards. He missed a few games this season because of injuries, and Baylor's offense was not as productive when he was sidelined. He's another running back who has very good quickness and catches the ball very well.

Charles Sims, West Virginia: Sims is a little bit of a sleeper who will stir up a lot of interest as draft day nears. West Virginia didn't have a good offensive line this season, and it hampered him, but he is a very good all-around back who can really catch the ball well and is a good runner.

Terrance West, Towson: West set an FCS record with 2,509 rushing yards and also scored 42 total touchdowns in helping Towson reach the FCS title game against North Dakota State. He's a shorter, stockier running back who doesn't have great speed, but his performance in the FCS was very impressive.

Bishop Sankey, Washington: Sankey has had great success the last two seasons at Washington, including rushing for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior. He's got outside speed, catches the ball well and does a nice job in pass protection. He's a durable back who runs hard. I like him a lot and think he'll be a good, solid back in the NFL.

James Wilder Jr., Florida State: Wilder Jr.'s dad is a former running back who played for Tampa Bay, and he looks just like his dad when he runs. He's a strong runner with pretty good movement, not a straight-line guy, and he catches the ball pretty well.

Marion Grice, Arizona State: Grice is a good-sized back at about 5-11 3/4 and 205 pounds, with 4.5 speed. He had a productive year in a good conference and was named second-team All-Pac-12.

Silas Redd, USC: Redd shared time this year and didn't put up the numbers we saw in his previous two seasons. He rushed for 1,241 yards at Penn State in 2011 and was productive in 2012, when he transferred to USC. He's a big back at about 212 pounds, and I think he's a good, solid football player.

Dri Archer, Kent State: At 5-8, 180, Archer's size will be a concern, but he's quick as a cat, which will give him a chance to succeed. Archer is also good on kick returns.

Ka'Deem Carey, Arizona: He has not declared. No other comments at this time.

Follow Gil Brandt on Twitter @Gil_Brandt.

 

[JFS171]

Auburn's Tre Mason leads 2014 NFL Draft's top running backs

By Gil Brandt

NFL Media senior analyst

There's a good chance that we will not see a running back drafted in the first round for the second year in a row. Go back about 75 years to the third draft in NFL history, when there were 10 teams in the league and nine of them picked a running back in the first round. You might say that times have changed.

It's not just that teams are throwing the ball more now than they did in the past. Their priorities have changed. The feeling among NFL teams now is that there are a lot of good running backs out there, and it's much easier to find them further down in the draft than a top quarterback, offensive lineman or defensive lineman. You could name any number of examples. This season in the NFL, two of the top offensive rookies in the league are running backs, Cincinnati's Giovani Bernard and Green Bay's Eddie Lacy, and both were drafted in the second round.

The call for running backs in the draft is not like it used to be, but that doesn't mean the talent is no longer there. My top running back in this year's draft is Auburn's Tre Mason, whom you might recall I compared to Cowboys great Tony Dorsett after his 304-yard rushing performance against Missouri in December. The Dorsett comparison had to do with Mason's unbelievable quickness -- he's the kind of back who can start and stop on a dime and leave you eight cents worth of change.

Nothing has changed about my evaluation of Mason in the last month. He had a fantastic season, ending it with a very good game against Florida State in the BCS championship game, rushing for 195 yards and scoring two touchdowns. What I like about Mason, besides that quickness, is that he performed so well in big games against good defenses. In five games against top-10 teams (including the BCS title game), he ran for 973 yards and nine touchdowns; he finished the season with 1,816 yards and 23 touchdowns.

He also became the first non-quarterback to lead Auburn in total offense since Bo Jackson did it in 1985. Anytime a guy racks up nearly 2,000 yards of offense while playing in the SEC, you're looking at a pretty productive player.

Mason recently received a third-round grade from the Draft Advisory Board. I would put him more around the second round. You would like to have a running back who's a little taller and heavier than Mason, but he's not a bad size for a running back, at about 5-foot-9, 205 pounds, and anyway, his speed makes up for whatever he lacks in size. It's also true that Auburn's offensive system helps players like Mason be productive, but I believe that his quickness and running ability will allow him to be very effective in whatever system he plays in.

I think Mason is the best running back in the draft. In terms of skills, he doesn't have to improve anything. He can catch the ball really well, he's got good vision and he's tough. I believe he will be a real threat as a runner in the NFL. And he can also do a lot of other things for you, including returning kicks.

Here are some of the other running backs I like in this draft who rank just below Mason:

Carlos Hyde, Ohio State: Hyde is very similar to Le'Veon Bell, the Pittsburgh Steelers rookie who was drafted out of Michigan State in the second round. His speed and quickness might not be off the charts, but he's a big back that can do everything pretty well, including catching the ball. He also has a skill not a lot of college backs have, and that's pass protection.

Devonta Freeman, Florida State: A true junior, Freeman is a short, compact runner who is very effective between the tackles, rushing for 1,016 yards on 5.9 yards per carry this season. He's also a good receiver, with 47 catches in his three seasons. He's built a lot like Redskins RB Alfred Morris but doesn't quite have the same skill set. I have him ranked ahead of teammate James Wilder Jr.

Lache Seastrunk, Baylor: Seastrunk was one of the main reasons Baylor's offense was so good this season. The Bears spread everyone out, giving a good inside-the-tackles runner like Seastrunk the opportunity to pick up big yards. He missed a few games this season because of injuries, and Baylor's offense was not as productive when he was sidelined. He's another running back who has very good quickness and catches the ball very well.

Charles Sims, West Virginia: Sims is a little bit of a sleeper who will stir up a lot of interest as draft day nears. West Virginia didn't have a good offensive line this season, and it hampered him, but he is a very good all-around back who can really catch the ball well and is a good runner.

Terrance West, Towson: West set an FCS record with 2,509 rushing yards and also scored 42 total touchdowns in helping Towson reach the FCS title game against North Dakota State. He's a shorter, stockier running back who doesn't have great speed, but his performance in the FCS was very impressive.

Bishop Sankey, Washington: Sankey has had great success the last two seasons at Washington, including rushing for 1,870 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior. He's got outside speed, catches the ball well and does a nice job in pass protection. He's a durable back who runs hard. I like him a lot and think he'll be a good, solid back in the NFL.

James Wilder Jr., Florida State: Wilder Jr.'s dad is a former running back who played for Tampa Bay, and he looks just like his dad when he runs. He's a strong runner with pretty good movement, not a straight-line guy, and he catches the ball pretty well.

Marion Grice, Arizona State: Grice is a good-sized back at about 5-11 3/4 and 205 pounds, with 4.5 speed. He had a productive year in a good conference and was named second-team All-Pac-12.

Silas Redd, USC: Redd shared time this year and didn't put up the numbers we saw in his previous two seasons. He rushed for 1,241 yards at Penn State in 2011 and was productive in 2012, when he transferred to USC. He's a big back at about 212 pounds, and I think he's a good, solid football player.

Dri Archer, Kent State: At 5-8, 180, Archer's size will be a concern, but he's quick as a cat, which will give him a chance to succeed. Archer is also good on kick returns.

Ka'Deem Carey, Arizona: He has not declared. No other comments at this time.

Follow Gil Brandt on Twitter @Gil_Brandt.

Not the first time we've heard Hyde's pass protection praised. I think he has the highest floor in this draft class.

 

[Faust]

Arizona RB Ka'Deem Carey to enter 2014 NFL Draft

By Dan Greenspan

College Football 24/7 writer

After two sterling seasons as the Arizona starting running back, there was simply nothing left for Ka'Deem Carey to accomplish in college. And so it is hardly a surprise that Carey is departing. He will forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 NFL Draft, the school confirmed Monday.

Sure, there was the chance to smash Pac-12 records and win the Doak Walker Award that had eluded him. He could have tried to lead the Wildcats to their first-ever appearance in the Rose Bowl in his final year of eligibility, but realistically Carey had to move on.

Carey (5-foot-10, 207 pounds) demonstrated a complete skill set to erase concerns he was merely the product of head coach Rich Rodriguez's spread offense. After rushing for 1,929 yards and 23 touchdowns as a sophomore, Carey added 1,885 yards and 19 scores in 2013 despite missing a stat-stuffing season opener against Northern Arizona while serving a one-game suspension.

Carey added 77 receptions for 679 yards and four touchdowns for his career.

His toughness, durability and elusiveness were best displayed during a shocking upset of Oregon in November, as Carey carried the ball a school-record 48 times for 206 yards and four touchdowns.

Follow Dan Greenspan on Twitter @DanGreenspan.

Rotoworld:

Arizona RB Ka'Deem Carey will forego his final year of college eligibility and enter the 2014 NFL draft.

Carey rushed a whopping 349 times for 1,885 yards (5.4 YPC) and 19 TDs as a junior in Rich Rodriguez's spread-option offense, adding 26 receptions. He's listed at 5-foot-10, 207. Carey reportedly received a second-round grade from the NFL's Draft Advisory Board, and has drawn comparisons to LeSean McCoy and Gio Bernard for his in-space playmaking ability and elusiveness. He'll be a fantasy back to monitor closely in both Dynasty and re-draft circles.

 

[Faust]

Mike Loyko’s 2014 NFL Draft Top 100: January Edition

 

[Faust]

LSU's Jeremy Hill, Arizona's Ka'Deem Carey top two RBs in draft

By Gil Brandt

NFL Media senior analyst

The 2014 running back class got a pretty big lift Monday with news that LSU's Jeremy Hill and Arizona's Ka'Deem Carey will be entering the draft.

Earlier in the day, I gave my list of the draft's top running backs, led by Auburn's Tre Mason. I still like Mason, but Hill and Carey's decisions change the list up quite a bit.

Before Hill declared, I said there was a good chance a running back would not be picked in the first round for the second year in a row. I think Hill will be a first-round pick. At 6-2, 235 pounds, he is a big, strong running back who rushed for 1,401 yards, averaging almost seven yards per carry, and scored 16 touchdowns in his sophomore season. His last game of the season might have been his best, a 216-yard, two-touchdown performance against Iowa in the Outback Bowl.

Cam Cameron, the offensive coordinator at LSU this year, recently told me he believes Hill is one of the best running backs he's been around, from the standpoint of power, the ability to catch the ball, etc. When a guy like Cameron, who's been in the NFL as a head coach and offensive coordinator, speaks of a player that highly, you've got to take notice.

One interesting thing about Hill is that he's really only played two years in college. He graduated from high school in 2010 and didn't play at all in 2011 before emerging as a freshman in 2012.

I'm not quite as high on Carey as some people are, but I like him and would probably slot him right below Hill as the draft's No. 2 running back; Mason would be No. 2A. The one thing I worry about with Carey is that he's not a really big guy, at 5-10 and 196 pounds, but he's proved to be very durable. After carrying the ball 303 times as a sophomore, he had 349 this season, including a 48-carry game against Oregon in November.

Carey's quickness doesn't quite jump off the tape like Mason's does, but it's good, and he's been very productive the last two years, with 16 consecutive games of 100 or more yards between his sophomore and junior seasons.

My updated top five running backs in the draft:

1. Jeremy Hill, LSU

2. Ka'Deem Carey, Arizona

2A. Tre Mason, Auburn

3. Bishop Sankey, Washington

4. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State

5. Devonta Freeman, Florida State

Follow Gil Brandt on Twitter @Gil_Brandt.

 

[EBF]

Hill as a first rounder? Seems unlikely. Nice player though. Light feet for a big man. A little bit of sideways quickness and can catch the ball. 2nd-3rd rounder IMO.

 

[Slapdash]

2014 Shrine Game: Top-10 prospects to watch

By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

January 12, 2014 2:03 am ET

1. QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois (6-2, 222, 4.78, #10)

The quarterback who broke most of Tony Romo's school passing records, Garoppolo is much more than a funny looking last name. He isn't the biggest and lacks a huge arm, but he has an above average understanding of offensive football and uses his quick eyes and touch to push the ball downfield. Garoppolo is not only considered the top quarterback in this game, but he might be the best overall prospect.2.

[/B

He is a better QB than Bortles, Manziel and Carr.

Explain why you think so?

 

[Slapdash]

I'm really liking this RB class shaping up. I'd be surprised if one doesn't go in the first round.

 

[Milkman]

I'm really liking this RB class shaping up. I'd be surprised if one doesn't go in the first round.

If Sankey puts up the numbers, that were claimed in this thread, at the combine he might go in the first round.

 

[Xue]

2014 Shrine Game: Top-10 prospects to watch

By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

January 12, 2014 2:03 am ET

1. QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois (6-2, 222, 4.78, #10)

The quarterback who broke most of Tony Romo's school passing records, Garoppolo is much more than a funny looking last name. He isn't the biggest and lacks a huge arm, but he has an above average understanding of offensive football and uses his quick eyes and touch to push the ball downfield. Garoppolo is not only considered the top quarterback in this game, but he might be the best overall prospect.2. [URL="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737669/ej-gaines"]http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737669/ej-gaines]

He is a better QB than Bortles, Manziel and Carr.

He might be better than Carr, that's it.

 

[lod01]

I'm really liking this RB class shaping up. I'd be surprised if one doesn't go in the first round.

That might be why none do. There are so many to choose from.

 

[ShaHBucks]

2014 Shrine Game: Top-10 prospects to watch

By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

January 12, 2014 2:03 am ET

1. QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois (6-2, 222, 4.78, #10)

The quarterback who broke most of Tony Romo's school passing records, Garoppolo is much more than a funny looking last name. He isn't the biggest and lacks a huge arm, but he has an above average understanding of offensive football and uses his quick eyes and touch to push the ball downfield. Garoppolo is not only considered the top quarterback in this game, but he might be the best overall prospect.2.

[/B

He is a better QB than Bortles, Manziel and Carr.

Explain why you think so?

His arm, release, footwork, deception with looking off defenders, pinpoint accracy... Watch him outmatched vs SD st., even Urban Myer said he was one of the best he's ever seen after that tape. I watched Bortles, McCarron, Hundley, Carr, ect.. they are all the same overhyped QB throwing predesigned safe slants and bubble screens all game to pat their comp%. This guy works the entire field and is dangerous with any window he sees deep. I'm waiting to see his measurements and wonderlic, but what I see now is impressive.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Alabama QB A.J. McCarron has decided to not attend the Senior Bowl.

"At this time, I'm putting all of my focus and energy into preparing for the NFL Combine, pro day and the rest of the pre-draft evaluation process. Therefore, I won't be taking part in the Senior Bowl," McCarron announced. NFL.com later spoke with McCarron's father who added "that's the advice he got, and if you're going to pay those people, you've got to trust them. All I can say is, the people who criticize it don't have a thing to lose." McCarron is from Mobile, AL, and has attended the event since he was a child. We are surprised a quarterback prospect would choose not to attend after the dynamic that took place with EJ Manuel and Geno Smith last year.


Source: AL.com

 

[Faust]

Report: Tide WR White to enter NFL draft

 

[Faust]

Can the NFL Bank on Bortles?

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Report: Tide WR White to enter NFL draft

This DeAndrew White kid looks like an interesting prospect. Pretty surprised his numbers were so mediocre though, he looks pretty good; has an NFL quality QB throwing him passes, and looks like he played opposite Cooper on a lot of Alabama's 2WR sets. Anyone familiar with Alabama know why he didn't have a more productive season?

Anyway, looks like someone who could blow up at the combine and create a lot of fans for himself.

 

[Faust]

Top 5 2014 NFL Draft prospects by position: Quarterbacks

By Bucky Brooks

NFL Media analyst

The 2014 quarterback class doesn't have a sure bet at the position, but features a pair of intriguing franchise quarterback possibilities in Teddy Bridgewater and Johnny Manziel. While Bridgewater is the classic pocket passer capable of fitting into any system, Manziel is a budding star capable of changing the game with his spectacular improvisational skills. Blake Bortles is the wild card of the group with a set of physical tools that could make him an elite player in time.

1. Teddy Bridgewater, LouisvilleThe most polished pocket passer in the college game. Bridgewater is capable of making every throw from the pocket, while orchestrating the operation at the line of scrimmage.

2. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&MManziel's sensational improvisational game evokes memories of Fran Tarkenton and Doug Flutie. Yet, it is his dramatic progress as a pocket passer that has some scouts convinced he could be a star in a wide-open offense.

3. Blake Bortles, UCFBortles has the tools to be a great one, but he is not a finished product. Patience and development will be the key to his success at the next level.

4. Derek Carr, Fresno StateThe ultimate gunslinger with the arm to make tight-window throws to every area of the field. Pocket poise is a concern, but Carr's upside is through the roof.

5. Zach Mettenberger, LSUOld-school pocket passer with a big arm and rapidly improving game. The ACL injury will send him down the charts a bit, but watching his work in Cam Cameron's system will make him a favorite of proponents of the vertical passing game.

Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.

 

[Faust]

Top 5 2014 NFL Draft prospects by position: Running backs

By Bucky Brooks

NFL Media analyst

The running back position is devalued in the draft, but a look at the teams seriously competing for the Super Bowl title suggests the position remains vital. Carlos Hyde and Tre Mason carried their respective teams on title runs, exhibiting several core traits scouts look for in feature backs. Bishop Sankey isn't a household name, but college football followers on the west coast are familiar with his exploits after watching him tear up the Pac-12 this season.

1. Ka'Deem Carey, ArizonaCarey is a dominant runner with exceptional vision, quickness and burst wrapped around a violent running style. He refuses to go down on initial contact, making him a nightmare to tackle over the course of the game.

2. Jeremy Hill, LSUHill might be the most physical runner in college football. He excels running downhill between the tackles, yet is nimble enough to do damage on the edges. If his character checks out, Hill could be a franchise back on a power-oriented team.

3. Carlos Hyde, Ohio StateHyde's punishing running style shines in a downhill running game directed between the tackles. His teammate, Braxton Miller, garnered more attention, but Hyde's physical presence set the tone for the Buckeyes' offense.

4. Tre Mason, AuburnThe sum of Mason's game is greater than the individual parts, but scouts will love his vision, lateral quickness and finish when they study the tape. When I watch Mason run, I can't help but think of former Pro Bowler Marion Barber III during his heyday in Dallas.

5. Bishop Sankey, WashingtonThere is always a place for gritty runners with a knack for consistently producing positive gains. Sankey is one of the best in the business at spotting and bursting through creases at the point of attack. Scouts also love how he finishes runs at the second level.

Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.

 

[Faust]

Top 5 NFL Draft prospects by position: Wide receiver

By Bucky Brooks

NFL Media analyst

The league rules banishing excessive contact on the perimeter have encouraged more NFL offensive coordinators to put the ball in the air to take advantage of speedsters and big-bodied playmakers. Sammy Watkins is unquestionably the most explosive receiver in the college game, but several "catch-and-run" specialists join him at the top of the board. Mike Evans is the next big-bodied receiver poised to wreak havoc on the league.

1. Sammy Watkins, ClemsonRare playmaker capable of running every route in the book with poise and precision. Kick-return skills reflect his explosiveness with the ball in his hands.

2. Odell Beckham Jr., LSUIt's not a coincidence that big plays happen when Beckham touches the ball in the open field. He is an explosive open-field runner with terrific vision, balance and body control.

3. Marqise Lee, USCLee has been downgraded because of an inconsistent junior campaign, but his supporters remember how much he impacted the game during his first two seasons at USC. He is a "catch-and-run" playmaker with the speed and quickness to turn short passes into big gains.

4. Brandin Cooks, Oregon StateScouts on the west coast tout Cooks as the best receiver in the region despite his slender frame. The Beavers' standout is a blazer on the perimeter, with the kind of open-field running skills that offensive coordinators covet in potential slot receivers.

5. Mike Evans, Texas A&MJohnny Manziel's favorite target could be the next jump-ball specialist to dominate the NFL game. There are some concerns about his stiffness, but he is such a presence on the perimeter that NFL offensive coordinators will salivate over his potential to develop into a dominant red-zone weapon.

Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.

 

[Faust]

Top 5 2014 NFL Draft prospects by position: Tight ends

By Bucky Brooks

NFL Media analyst

The tight-end position has become the focal point of the passing game for several NFL teams. Part of that is because of the superior athleticism of former basketball players manning the position at the high school and collegiate levels. The trend will continue with North Carolina's Eric Ebron, Washington's Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Texas Tech's Jace Amaro dominating opponents with their size, strength and ball skills. Each has flashed exceptional skills as primary targets, leading scouts to salivate about their potential at the next level.

1. Eric Ebron, North CarolinaUltra-athletic playmaker with the size, speed and movement skills to create mismatches at the next level.

2. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, WashingtonBig-bodied tight end with strong hands and good ball skills. Can fill a traditional tight-end role but is versatile enough to be used on the move.

3. Jace Amaro, Texas TechCan't knock his production in the Red Raiders' offense, but he doesn't display elite speed, quickness or athleticism. Best described as a natural pass catcher with a great feel for posting up smaller defenders.

4. C.J. Fiedorowicz, IowaOvershadowed by the bigger names on this list but could rank high on the draft boards of teams looking for a traditional tight end with strong hands.

5. Troy Niklas, Notre DameA surprise entry into the draft, Niklas is one of the most intriguing prospects because of his extraordinary size (6-foot-7, 270 pounds) and sneaky athleticism. If he ever puts it all together on the field, he could be a dominant player at the position at the NFL level.

Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.

 

[Slapdash]

Rotoworld:

Alabama QB A.J. McCarron has decided to not attend the Senior Bowl.

"At this time, I'm putting all of my focus and energy into preparing for the NFL Combine, pro day and the rest of the pre-draft evaluation process. Therefore, I won't be taking part in the Senior Bowl," McCarron announced. NFL.com later spoke with McCarron's father who added "that's the advice he got, and if you're going to pay those people, you've got to trust them. All I can say is, the people who criticize it don't have a thing to lose." McCarron is from Mobile, AL, and has attended the event since he was a child. We are surprised a quarterback prospect would choose not to attend after the dynamic that took place with EJ Manuel and Geno Smith last year.


Source: AL.com

 

[Faust]

Johnny Manziel ranks No. 1 on top 50 NFL prospects list

By Gil Brandt

NFL Media senior analyst

We've reached the draft-declaration deadline, and the pool for the 2014 NFL Draft is set. Here is my first look at the top 50 prospects for the draft. These are strictly player rankings and do not factor in the player's medical history or character issues.

1. Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M
Manziel (6-0, 205 pounds) is a unique athlete who produced 10,000 yards of offense in two seasons with the Aggies. He has great vision at quarterback.

2. Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
Clowney (6-foot-4 1/2, 260 pounds) did not play well this season, but he is an outstanding athlete with speed and has great talent.

3. Anthony Barr, LB, UCLA
Like his father, Barr (6-foot-4, 242 pounds) is a former running back. He had 23.5 sacks over two seasons and can rush and play in space.

4. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
Matthews (6-foot-5, 310 pounds) stayed in school for his fourth year and learned the left tackle position. He can play guard or tackle and is a good pass blocker.

5. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
In two seasons, Bridgewater (6-foot-2 1/2, 207 pounds) had 58 TD passes and only 12 interceptions and a completion percentage of nearly 70 percent. His thin upper body is a concern.

6. Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
Bortles (6-foot-3 1/2, 225 pounds) is the flavor of the month right now. He has emerged after receiving only two offers out of high school, including one from Purdue, which recruited him as a tight end. In two years he had 50 TD passes to 16 interceptions.

7. Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
Watkins (6-0, 207 pounds) is a very strong receiver. He had a great first year in 2011, when he had 82 catches and 12 TDs and averaged 25 yards per kickoff return, then missed three games in an up-and-down sophomore season. He finished his college career with 240 catches in three years.

8. Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo
Mack (6-foot-2, 247 pounds) broke Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson's NCAA record for forced fumbles. He was especially impressive against Ohio State in the season opener, posting nine tackles and 2.5 sacks.

9. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
A fifth-year player, Lewan (6-foot-6, 320 pounds) does things very easy and has the strength to play left tackle. His play this season wasn't quite as good as last year.

10. Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn
A third-year player, Robinson (6-foot-4 1/2, 325 pounds) redshirted in 2011 and has started 24 games the past two years. He played guard in high school in Louisiana.

11. Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
Hageman (6-foot-5, 315 pounds) is a hard player to grade. He was the top-rated tight end in high school and is very athletic.

12. C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
At 6-foot-1 1/2, 231 pounds, Mosley does everything you want on the field out of a linebacker. He has had several injuries at Alabama, which is a concern.

13. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
Clinton-Dix (6-foot-1, 208 pounds) is a two-year starter at free safety, acting as the quarterback for Alabama's defensive backs and making sure they're lined up right. He has seven interceptions in 19 starts.

14. Marqise Lee, WR, USC
Lee (5-foot-11 1/2, 195 pounds) is an outstanding athlete who also plays basketball and runs track. He might not be an advanced route runner. In three seasons at USC he had 248 receptions and 29 touchdowns.

15. Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
Kouandjio (6-foot-6, 310 pounds) is a two-year starter at left tackle. He allowed 1.5 sacks in 335 pass attempts and played especially well against Arkansas DE Chris Smith.

16. Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina
Ebron (6-foot-4, 245 pounds) broke Vernon Davis' single-season record for receiving yards by a tight end in the ACC, with 973 yards on 62 catches. He is more of a receiver than a blocker.

17. Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
Benjamin (6-foot-4 1/2, 238 pounds) has not played a lot of football, spending just two years with the Seminoles after redshirting in 2011, but he has very good hands and is a big target.

18. Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
Dennard (5-foot-11, 190 pounds) is very well coached and thrives in playing press coverage. He has good instincts and is a playmaker, with seven interceptions the past two years.

19. Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
At 6-0, 205 pounds, Gilbert is a big corner. He played better this year than in 2012, posting seven interceptions. He averaged 26 yards per kickoff return in 2012.

20. Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
Evans (6-foot-4 1/4, 225 pounds) is a good athlete who played basketball in high school. After redshirting in 2011, he posted 151 catches and 17 touchdowns. He's a long strider with questionable speed and will have to learn how to run routes better.

21. Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
The younger brother of David Carr, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2002, Carr (6-foot-2 1/2, 210 pounds) had two very good years as starter at Fresno State, but he did not play well in the Las Vegas Bowl against USC. His showing at the Senior Bowl will be important.

22. Stephon Tuitt, DT, Notre Dame
Tuitt (6-foot-5, 320 pounds) had 19.5 sacks in the past two years and one interception vs. Michigan this season. He plays the run well and is athletic, but is he tough?

23. Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame
Nix (6-foot-2 1/2, 325 pounds) missed most of the season with an injury after playing well in 2012. He looks the part of a defensive tackle, with good size, quickness and lateral movement.

24. Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
Ealy (6-foot-4, 277 pounds) played very well in the Cotton Bowl vs. Oklahoma State, recording two sacks, giving him 9.5 for the season. He has good quickness. He is a two-year starter but had one good year.

25. Zach Martin, OT, Notre Dame
Martin was the MVP of the Pinstripe Bowl against Rutgers. He has good athletic ability. He plays left tackle, but his best position might be at guard.

26. Jeremy Hill, RB, LSU
Hill (6-foot-1, 233 pounds) rushed for 1,401 yards and nine TDs this season. He played just two years at LSU and has had off-field problems.

27. Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State
Jernigan (6-foot-1 1/2 300 pounds) played as a true freshman in 2011 and started only two games in 2012. His quickness allows him to be a very disruptive player.

28. Loucheiz Purifoy, CB, Florida
Purifoy (5-foot-11, 187 pounds) is a very good athlete. He was briefly moved to wide receiver last spring but was moved back to a defensive back in the fall.

29. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Washington
Seferian-Jenkins (6-foot-5, 265 pounds) is a big target but is a better receiver than a blocker. He won the Mackey Award this season as the nation's top tight end and had 105 catches and 15 touchdowns over the past two years.

30. Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
A very good athlete, Amaro (6-foot-4 1/2, 255 pounds) was an outstanding basketball player in high school. He had 106 catches and seven touchdowns this season but is not much of a blocker.

31. Marcus Roberson, CB, Florida
Roberson (5-foot-11 1/2, 197 pounds) has talent but also has a few problems. He missed most of the 2013 season with injuries and suspensions.

32. Ryan Shazier, LB, Ohio State
Shazier (6-foot-1 1/2, 227 pounds) lacks size for the position but makes plays all over the field, including 115 tackles in 2012. He can also play in space.

33. Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State
Crichton (6-foot-2 1/2, 262 pounds) is undersized but never stops working and is very athletic; he played tight end in high school. He is a three-year starter who had 22.5 sacks in his career.

34. Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
Robinson (6-foot-2, 210 pounds) played as a true freshman and totaled 174 catches the past two years. He is a great leaper, something he showed when he made a big catch late in the fourth quarter against Michigan this season.

35. Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State
Cooks (5-foot-9, 185 pounds) had 128 catches for 1,730 yards and 16 TDs this season. He's short but is a great athlete who can also return kicks.

36. Ka'Deem Carey, RB, Arizona
Carey (5-foot-9 1/2, 195 pounds) played as a true freshman in 2011, then rushed for 1,929 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2012 and 1,885 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2013. He's quick, fast and strong, but can he pass block?

37. Aaron Colvin, CB, Oklahoma
Colvin (5-foot-11 1/2, 192 pounds) has started 35 games in four years and has five career interceptions. I questioned his speed, but not after watching him chase down Alabama WR DeAndrew White in the Sugar Bowl.

38. Xavier Su'a-Filo, OT, UCLA
Su'a-Filo (6-foot-3, 320 pounds) played tackle for the Bruins but will be great as a guard. He spent two years on a Morman mission and is an older player; he turned 23 on Jan. 1.

39. Cyril Richardson, OG, Baylor
Richardson (6-foot-4 1/2, 332 pounds) has played left tackle and left guard, but guard is his best position. He didn't play as well this year as he did in 2012.

40. Gabe Jackson, OG, Mississippi State
Jackson (6-foot-3, 325 pounds) is a lot like the Titans' Chance Warmack, the No. 10 overall pick last year out of Alabama. He is a hard worker and very strong.

41. Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh
Donald (6-0, 285 pounds) is a lot like Bills DT Kyle Williams. He has very long arms and has had great production in college, with 16 1/2 sacks over two years.

42. Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
Roby (5-foot-10 1/2, 192 pounds) was beaten a lot in coverage this year and didn't play up to his potential. He could help himself by working out at the Combine.

43. Tre Mason, RB, Auburn
Mason (5-foot-9 1/2, 200 pounds) lacks ideal size for a running back but is very quick. He had a great junior season, rushing for 973 yards and nine touchdowns in five games vs. top 10 teams (including the BCS title game). Some believe he is a product of Auburn's system. I don't think so.

44. Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State
Hyde (5-foot-11, 238 pounds) ran for 1,521 yards and 15 TDs, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. He's a strong runner. He has slightly above-average quickness and can go outside.

45. Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
Matthews (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) is a productive player with great hands, totaling 206 catches for 15 TDs over the past two years. He has great ball skills but lacks elite speed.

46. Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
Verrett (5-foot-9, 180 pounds) has very good cover skills and recorded eight interceptions in the past two years. He's just small for the position -- can he hold up in the NFL?

47. Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU
Beckham (5-foot-11, 187 pound) won the Paul Hornung Award as the nation's most versatile player. He's a good pass catcher who also is skilled as a return man.

48. Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee
Richardson's former head coach Derek Dooley thought he could be a top 10 pick. A three-year starter, he is 6-foot-5, 330 pounds with long arms.

49. AJ McCarron, QB, Alabama
McCarron (6-foot-3, 215 pounds) won lots of games as Alabama's quarterback, including three national titles. He has talent and is very smart. I think he will be better than people think.

50. Jackson Jeffcoat, DE, Texas
Jeffcoat (6-foot-4, 250 pounds) was the Big 12 defensive player of the year and might be able to play outside linebacker. I drafted his father, Jim, in 1983, passing on Dan Marino in doing so.

Follow Gil Brandt on Twitter @Gil_Brandt.

 

[Faust]

Daniel Jeremiah has updated his Top 50:

Top 50 NFL draft prospect rankings

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Alabama QB A.J. McCarron has decided to not attend the Senior Bowl.

"At this time, I'm putting all of my focus and energy into preparing for the NFL Combine, pro day and the rest of the pre-draft evaluation process. Therefore, I won't be taking part in the Senior Bowl," McCarron announced. NFL.com later spoke with McCarron's father who added "that's the advice he got, and if you're going to pay those people, you've got to trust them. All I can say is, the people who criticize it don't have a thing to lose." McCarron is from Mobile, AL, and has attended the event since he was a child. We are surprised a quarterback prospect would choose not to attend after the dynamic that took place with EJ Manuel and Geno Smith last year.


Source: AL.com

Rotoworld:

CBS Sports' Dane Brugler spoke with multiple NFL scouts who reacted negatively to Alabama QB A.J. McCarron's decision to skip the Senior Bowl.

"One scout told me that he was 'looking forward to A.J. changing' his mind on him," Brugler tweeted, which likely won't happen now. "Not many QBs go to Mobile and hurt themselves." We are surprised any quarterback would turn down the opportunity after what happened with EJ Manuel last season. Conversely, Geno Smith declined the invitation just a year ago.


Source: Dane Brugler on Twitter

 

[Faust]

Peshek: Top 4 WR Metrics

 

[Faust]

Chris Burke's NFL Draft Big Board 3.0

 

[Slapdash]

Rotoworld:

Alabama QB A.J. McCarron has decided to not attend the Senior Bowl.

"At this time, I'm putting all of my focus and energy into preparing for the NFL Combine, pro day and the rest of the pre-draft evaluation process. Therefore, I won't be taking part in the Senior Bowl," McCarron announced. NFL.com later spoke with McCarron's father who added "that's the advice he got, and if you're going to pay those people, you've got to trust them. All I can say is, the people who criticize it don't have a thing to lose." McCarron is from Mobile, AL, and has attended the event since he was a child. We are surprised a quarterback prospect would choose not to attend after the dynamic that took place with EJ Manuel and Geno Smith last year.


Source: AL.com

Rotoworld:

CBS Sports' Dane Brugler spoke with multiple NFL scouts who reacted negatively to Alabama QB A.J. McCarron's decision to skip the Senior Bowl.

"One scout told me that he was 'looking forward to A.J. changing' his mind on him," Brugler tweeted, which likely won't happen now. "Not many QBs go to Mobile and hurt themselves." We are surprised any quarterback would turn down the opportunity after what happened with EJ Manuel last season. Conversely, Geno Smith declined the invitation just a year ago.


Source: Dane Brugler on Twitter

If he wants the terrible bowl game to be his final impression on teams, that is a big mistake.

 

[ConnSKINS26]

Whoever McCarron's family is paying for advice, they should fire them. Terrible decision.

 

[Soulfly3]

McCarron knows deep down, he is destined for a Colt McCoy type career at best.

Wouldnt touch him

 

[steveski]

Peshek: Top 4 WR Metrics

Props to RW for doing these. I don't like a lot of their analysis, but these are pretty good.

 

[Ilov80s]

Peshek: Top 4 WR Metrics

Props to RW for doing these. I don't like a lot of their analysis, but these are pretty good.

Good read, but after looking at the WR class, I don't think Benjamin in one of the 4 top WRs. I like Jordan Matthews better.

 

[Brewtown]

This draft has at least 6 and maybe 7 Running Backs that I think are talented enough to start from day one in the NFL and be ultra-productive. Will any of them be 1st round NFL Draft Picks?? That remains to be seen. I think one or two could creep into the first round over the next 5 months. I could see any of the 6 running backs below as the first pick in Dynasty Rookie Drafts. What they have put on film has me sold on all of them to be effective NFL Backs. The combine/pro days/personal preference/NFL team will dictate the order of how these guys may get drafted in rookie drafts. Some posters on this board view this as a class with no sure fire stud. I would disagree and say that all 6 are sure fire studs that will produce in the NFL.

The order that I'd currently place them in is (keep in mind that I think they are all very talented and that there is not much separation):

1) Jeremy Hill - so big and athletic. Looks like a more athletic Stephen Davis. He is going to be a monster in the NFL.

2) Bishop Sankey - Athletic shorter RB in the Ray Rice mold. He is almost as good of an inside runner as Ray Rice (not quite), but is a more athletic cutter/juker than Rice.

3) Kadeem Carey - Big Conference Production. Reminds me of a more athletic Leshon McCoy coming out.

4) Tre Mason - Big Time Production in Big Time Games. Doug Martin type runner...

5) Carlos Hyde - Big Conference Production. Looks and plays like a man-child. A comp is tuff on Hyde.

6) Lache Seastrunk - An electric athlete when running the ball. A thicker (probably slower) and possibly more athletic Chris Johnson.

7) Devonta Freeman. - He may also be in the above group as well (Ray Rice type)

Others:

Andre Williams

Isaiah Crowell

Chris Sims

Terrence West

James Wilder Jr

This years Rookie Draft are going to have 6-7 stud Running Backs versus the usual 2-3. Great year for RB talent!

 

[Faust]

Derek Carr seeking to regain momentum at Senior Bowl

By Dan Greenspan

College Football 24/7 writer

Whatever momentum Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr had going into the 2014 NFL Draft was undone by the USC defense in the Las Vegas Bowl. Now Carr is hoping to get it back at the Reese's Senior Bowl next week.

"My No. 1 goal is to go there and show people who I am, show them that No. 1 is my faith, No. 2 is my family and my friends, and No. 3 is football and I take my job very serious. Hopefully I'll find a team that feels the same way and falls in love with me," Carr told the College Football 24/7 podcast.

Despite throwing for an FBS-best 5,083 yards and 50 touchdowns as a senior, it was the struggles against the Trojans' talented front seven -- one Carr labeled "the best we played against" this season -- that raised concerns about his pocket presence.

Carr was 30-of-54 passing for 217 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in the 45-20 loss, a last impression that knocked him well behind Teddy Bridgewater, Johnny Manziel and Blake Bortles among quarterbacks available in the draft.

NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah has a second-round grade on Carr. Bucky Brooks said scouts are "fascinated by his natural arm talent, his gunslinger mentality and his production," but sees the Senior Bowl as the proving ground that will play a significant role in determining Carr's stock.

"If he goes down to Mobile, if he lights it up and performs well in practices and in the game, I think he certainly can jump back in the conversation as one of those top guys," Brooks said.

Said Jeremiah: "That's why you go to the Senior Bowl if you're a guy like Derek Carr. You go there and you got a chance to really help yourself."

That is especially true with AJ McCarron, one of the other signal-callers currently in the second tier with Carr, bypassing the Senior Bowl after a similarly dismal bowl performance.

But Carr is aiming higher, expressing no doubts he can match Bridgewater, Manziel and Bortles in the classroom and on the field. As for the concerns and questions about his game that make the Senior Bowl so critical, Carr is glad to hear them.

"I hope they nitpick a lot because I want to be the best to ever do it, with respect to everyone who has ever played the position," Carr said.

Follow Dan Greenspan on Twitter @DanGreenspan.

 

[lod01]

McCarron knows deep down, he is destined for a Colt McCoy type career at best.

Wouldnt touch him

Hey, the dude has got to hang onto that hottie any way he can and the best way is not to show that he is a ham and egger college QB.

 

[lod01]

This draft has at least 6 and maybe 7 Running Backs that I think are talented enough to start from day one in the NFL and be ultra-productive. Will any of them be 1st round NFL Draft Picks?? That remains to be seen. I think one or two could creep into the first round over the next 5 months. I could see any of the 6 running backs below as the first pick in Dynasty Rookie Drafts. What they have put on film has me sold on all of them to be effective NFL Backs. The combine/pro days/personal preference/NFL team will dictate the order of how these guys may get drafted in rookie drafts. Some posters on this board view this as a class with no sure fire stud. I would disagree and say that all 6 are sure fire studs that will produce in the NFL.

The order that I'd currently place them in is (keep in mind that I think they are all very talented and that there is not much separation):

1) Jeremy Hill - so big and athletic. Looks like a more athletic Stephen Davis. He is going to be a monster in the NFL.

2) Bishop Sankey - Athletic shorter RB in the Ray Rice mold. He is almost as good of an inside runner as Ray Rice (not quite), but is a more athletic cutter/juker than Rice.

3) Kadeem Carey - Big Conference Production. Reminds me of a more athletic Leshon McCoy coming out.

4) Tre Mason - Big Time Production in Big Time Games. Doug Martin type runner...

5) Carlos Hyde - Big Conference Production. Looks and plays like a man-child. A comp is tuff on Hyde.

6) Lache Seastrunk - An electric athlete when running the ball. A thicker (probably slower) and possibly more athletic Chris Johnson.

7) Devonta Freeman. - He may also be in the above group as well (Ray Rice type)

Others:

Andre Williams

Isaiah Crowell

Chris Sims

Terrence West

James Wilder Jr

This years Rookie Draft are going to have 6-7 stud Running Backs versus the usual 2-3. Great year for RB talent!

Deepest dynasty draft ever. The Calvin's, the Adrian Peterson's, the AJ Green's don't exist but there is a ton of guys that can be starters at QB, RB, and WR. Also 3 solid TE's and a couple sleepers as well.

 

[Don Quixote]

Brendan Bigelow declared because.... he can, I guess?

 

[EBF]

Brendan Bigelow declared because.... he can, I guess?

Ouch. UDFA IMO.

Lots of rats bailing from the sinking Sonny Dykes ship.

 

[Faust]

NFL prospect focus: Jordan Matthews

 

[Faust]

Twitter:

Daniel Jeremiah ‏@MoveTheSticks

Wisconsin WR Jared Abbrederis is fun to watch. He's very quick in/out of the break and he makes a ton of plays.

Kevin Weidl ‏@KevinW_ESPN

Heavy film study w/ @McShay13 tonight. Allen Robinson is raw but has intriguing upside. OG John Urschel is the surprise of the night so far.

 

[lod01]

NFL prospect focus: Jordan Matthews

Reminds me of Colston

 

[EBF]

NFL prospect focus: Jordan Matthews

Reminds me of Colston

I think of Colston as a not that fast big body possession WR. Matthews seems like more of a conventional downfield outside receiver. Like a taller, leaner Torry Holt. Probably not anywhere near that good, but I'm at least intrigued to see what he looks like at the combine.

 

[Brewtown]

NFL prospect focus: Jordan Matthews

Reminds me of Colston

I think of Colston as a not that fast big body possession WR. Matthews seems like more of a conventional downfield outside receiver. Like a taller, leaner Torry Holt. Probably not anywhere near that good, but I'm at least intrigued to see what he looks like at the combine.

I agree. Not a Colston...

 

[CalBear]

Brendan Bigelow declared because.... he can, I guess?

Ouch. UDFA IMO.

Lots of rats bailing from the sinking Sonny Dykes ship.

Bigelow has some possibilities better than UDFA. He could be a good third down/change of pace back; he certainly has shown some moves. He needs to stop fumbling.

My theory on the exodus from Cal is this: The AD (Sandy Barbour) is under extreme pressure for the academic underperformance of football and basketball (amongst other reasons), and she's given Dykes the marching orders to get it cleaned up. So anyone who has been skating by academically is bolting before they get benched (which might have already happened with Bigelow).

 

[Faust]

Big Board: Underclassmen, especially QBs, make draft class deep

 

[Spike]

Did Karlos Williams from FSU declare?

 

[jeter23]

Did Karlos Williams from FSU declare?

Nope