[Dynasty] 2014 Draft Prospects (2 Viewers)

[Bob Magaw]

LSU senior QB Mettenberger tore his ACL (so did Georgia QB Aaron Murray a week or two ago).

 

[Penguin]

Mariota staying in school

http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/10074701/marcus-mariota-oregon-ducks-return-junior-season

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Draft: Torn ACL could push Mettenberger into second day

Rotoworld:

LSU senior QB Zach Mettenberger's surgery to repair a torn ACL will be delayed around two weeks to allow a sprained MCL to heal.

ESPN's Adam Caplan added Mettenberger should be able to throw during LSU's pro day in March. The NFL insider added he doesn't think Mettenberger's draft projection will drop "all that much," because the quarterback tends to stick to the pocket. The injury was to the quarterbacks lead left leg. Caplan thinks there is still a chance Mettenberger is selected in the first-round.


Source: ESPN

 

[Faust]

Week 15 Prospect Match-up: All eyes on the Big Ten

 

[Faust]

NFL DraftScout.com Updated 2014 NFL Mock Drafts

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

UCF redshirt junior Blake Bortles ranks as Scouts Inc.'s No. 2 QB in the 2014 class.

Marcus Mariota was the top ranked passer, but he has been removed from the list. Teddy Bridgewater earned a grade of 93, but Bortles is just behind with a 92. All indications point to Bortles returning, but recent developments in the quarterback group could launch him to the NFL. His mannerisms remind us a lot of Andrew Luck, but he will probably earn a "poor man's version" tag with that comparison.


Source: ESPN

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

NFL.com's Charles Davis believes San Jose State senior QB David Fales isn't far behind Fresno State's Derek Carr.

"Evaluators I hear from are very high on him," Davis writes. "They keep saying, "I've got to see more of him." ...He has an excellent skill set. The whole package -- size, arm strength, accuracy, footwork -- just screams quarterback." Fales has taken a back seat in the quarterback discussion this season, but he displays patience to survey the field and positive pocket movement.


Source: NFL.com

Ohio State senior RB Carlos Hyde has converted 80 percent of his third down carries this season, according to Greg Peshek.

As we have stated over and over again, Hyde has really emerged this season. Our own josh Norris has compared him to Zac Stacy and Frank Gore because of his ability to beat first contact on a consistent basis. For comparison, Boston College's Andre Williams has converted close to 45 percent of the same opportunities.


Source: Greg Peshek on Twitter

 

[Faust]

Big Board: Clowney hasn't quite lived up to hype but he's still No. 1


by Rob Rang

Dec. 4, 2013 3:03 PM ET

The conference championship games provide scouts a final "regular" season opportunity to evaluate prospects before the blitz of bowls, all-star games and workouts kicks into high gear.

The ability to step up as the pressure increases will only enhance the stock of many prospects. Bowl games provide similar pressure, but with several weeks to go before the first of them the championship games are a better chance to gauge players in the week to week schedule that NFL teams use on their potential march to the Super Bowl.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or the projected selection order. It is simply a ranking of the 32 best prospects potentially eligible for the 2014 NFL draft.

* denotes underclassman

1. DE Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina (6-6, 268, 4.65)* -- Clowney has failed to live up to our astronomical expectations, but scouts aren't as concerned with his mediocre production as the media seems to be. Though he registered just three sacks (and zero forced fumbles) in the 2013 regular season, Clowney remains a dominating presence capable of making the game-changing play on each snap of the ball.

2. QB Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville (6-3, 220, 4.65)* -- In an era in which college quarterbacks' numbers are often inflated by short passes and relatively simplistic schemes, Bridgewater's sparkling production is due to Pro Bowl-caliber accuracy. His success (71 percent completion rate with 25 touchdowns against just three interceptions) comes out of a pro-style offense that forces him to make tough throws.

Bridgewater's slight frame and level of competition are concerns, but make no mistake: he's the heavy favorite to be the top pick in the 2014 draft should he come out.

3. OLB Anthony Barr, UCLA (6-4, 238, 4.73) -- A running back until last season, Barr exploded on the scene in 2012 and has continued his playmaking ways as a senior. Barr ended Matt Barkley's college career with a huge hit a year ago against the Trojans and was again dominant in the intense rivalry this season, collecting five tackles (all solos), three tackles for loss, two sacks and a forced fumble. The UCLA coaches rave about his work ethic, and Barr is a terrific pass rusher, capable of beating tackles off the edge with speed and power.

4. WR Sammy Watkins, Clemson (6-1, 200, 4.49)* -- After a disappointing sophomore season a year ago, Watkins has returned to the dominating form he displayed as a true freshman. Watkins is an explosive athlete with impressive body control and natural hands to pluck the ball. Unlike some of his teammates, Watkins played well against Clemson's top opponents in two losses this season, Florida State and South Carolina.

5. OT Cameron Erving, Florida State (6-5, 310, 5.26)* -- Erving played in 13 games as a redshirt freshman defensive tackle, but looked like a natural when moved to left tackle a season ago. Long, balanced and athletic, he's a hidden factor in the dynamic play of freshman quarterback Jameis Winston and could enjoy a "quiet" ride into the top 10 of the 2014 draft just as former Texas A&M left tackle Luke Joeckel did a year ago while blocking for Heisman winner Johnny Manziel.

6. QB Derek Carr, Fresno State (6-3, 215) -- Carr's staggering production (69.7 completion percentage, 39 TDs, four INTs) is certainly inflated by coach Tim DeRuyter's QB-friendly spread attack and legitimately talented receiving corps, but there is no denying his talent. Frankly, his release and velocity are as impressive as any college quarterback in the country. Don't be surprised if Carr winds up in the top five should he continue to throw this well in Fresno's bowl game and in Mobile.

7. OT Jake Matthews, Texas A&M (6-5, 305, 5.14) -- The son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, Jake proves the cliche true -- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. He has played well at left tackle this season after starring at right tackle over his first three years. Matthews is a terrific football player, demonstrating impressive technique, strength and consistency. He is not, however, an elite athlete and some view his future back on the right side in the NFL.

8. OT Cyrus Kouandjio, Alabama (6-5, 312, 5.12)* -- Nick Saban questioned draft analysts for pegging Kouandjio as a first-round talent before the season, but given the junior left tackle's exciting skill-set the projection has been an easy one. Athletic and aggressive, Kouandjio could overtake some of the other top tackles in this class should he elect to enter the draft a year early.

9. CB Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State (5-11, 197) -- Quick feet, loose hips and a fluid turning motion make Dennard a classic cover corner capable of shutting down half the field. His ability in coverage plays a big role in Michigan State's stellar defense. Scouts are eager to see how Dennard matches up against Ohio State in the Big Ten championship in easily the Spartans' biggest test of the season

10. OLB C.J. Mosley, Alabama (6-2, 232, 4.56) -- While a bit undersized, Mosley might be the best pound-for-pound player in the country. Athletic and instinctive, he is a true three-down linebacker capable of making plays against the run and pass. Mosley lacks the bulk scouts want in a pass rusher, but his awareness in coverage is special.

11. OLB Khalil Mack, Buffalo (6-3, 248, 4.66) -- With a record-tying 75 career tackles for loss, Mack's statistics jump off the page. Against the most gifted opponents he faced this year (Ohio State, Connecticut), it was his game that jumped off the screen. His size, instincts and agility as an edge rusher make him equally intriguing to teams operating out of a 4-3 or 3-4 alignment.

12. OT Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M (6-5, 300, 5.15)* -- Overshadowed by all of the talent on the Aggies' roster, Ogbuehi is an exciting prospect in his own right. A standout at right guard a year ago, Ogbuehi (pronounced ah-BOO-hee) took over for Jake Matthews at right tackle in 2013 and has excelled. Possessing long arms and light feet, Ogbuehi's offers more upside than his more celebrated teammate, though he is not yet as polished.

13. WR Mike Evans, Texas A&M (6-5, 225, 4.58)* -- Like his famous quarterback Johnny Manziel, Evans is just a redshirt sophomore, but he has a big decision to make after dominating the SEC most of the season. Deceptively fast and possessing great body control as well as timing, Evans is an exciting split end prospect who reminds scouts of Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Vincent Jackson. Of concern, however, is the fact that Evans struggled in his final two regular-season games, catching just eight passes for a combined 59 yards in losses to LSU and Missouri.

14. TE Eric Ebron, North Carolina (6-4, 245, 4.67)* -- Ebron possesses a jaw-dropping combination of size and athleticism that has earned comparisons to 49ers star Vernon Davis. Like Davis, however, Ebron struggles with consistency, relying too much on his athleticism rather than dedicating himself to learning the finer techniques of the position. Ebron will forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 draft.

15. CB Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Oregon (5-10, 190)* -- Lost in the hype of Oregon's offense are a number of highly regarded defenders, including Ekpre-Olomu, who combines great instincts, agility and physicality to shut down his side of the field. Ekpre-Olomu's toughness on the perimeter played a significant role in Oregon's win over Oregon State in the Civil War, as he posted 12 tackles (all solos), deflected three passes and intercepted another while helping to limit Beavers star WR Brandin Cooks.

16. OT Taylor Lewan, Michigan (6-7, 310, 5.04) -- Possessing an impressive combination of size, strength and toughness, Lewan has earned comparisons to former Michigan standout Jake Long throughout his career. He certainly looked the part against Ohio State, dominating the action up front. Lewan lacks elite athleticism, however, and some feel his NFL future lies on the right side.

17. DL Stephon Tuitt, Notre Dame (6-5, 303, 4.89)* -- Offseason sports hernia surgery may have played a role in Tuitt weighing 20 pounds more this season than a year ago, and early on the extra weight seemed to be slowing him. He played much better over the second half of the season, but with nose guard Louis Nix III sidelined, Tuitt has faced additional attention from opponents.

18. DE Trent Murphy, Stanford (6-6, 261, 4.85) -- Used as a standup outside linebacker as a well as a down defensive lineman for the Cardinal, Murphy is equally impactful in the passing game, running game and on special teams due to his instincts, physicality and awareness. Scouts question whether he possesses the acceleration and balance to consistently turn the corner as a 4-3 defensive end, but Murphy will get a chance to prove his burst against the up-tempo Sun Devils in the Pac-12 championship game.

19. TE Jace Amaro, Texas Tech (6-5, 260)* -- The NFL is looking for seam threats rather than extra blockers at tight end in today's game, and there hasn't been a more impressive prospect in the country in 2013 in this role than Amaro. Scouts are beginning to mention the name Jimmy Graham when discussing the junior, though he dropped a few catchable passes in Tech's loss to Texas on Nov. 30.

20. WR Marqise Lee, Southern Cal (6-0, 195, 4.51)* -- A nagging left knee injury has hampered Lee much of the 2013 season, robbing the reigning Biletnikof Award winner of his trademark elusiveness and acceleration. Finally healthy, he starred against Stanford Nov. 16, helping guide the Trojans to the upset win and seeming to solidify his stock, but then he registered a relatively nondescript six grabs for 69 yards in the Nov. 30 loss to UCLA.

21. OG Cyril Richardson, Baylor (6-5, 335, 5.27) -- A dominating drive blocker who projects best at guard but spent the entire 2011 season protecting Robert Griffin III at left tackle, Richardson is massive, powerful and shockingly athletic. While many of the other Bears struggled in primetime showdowns against Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, Richardson shined. Watch for him against an athletic Longhorns front seven in the Big 12 championship game.

22. OC Travis Swanson, Arkansas (6-4, 318) -- If Richardson is the elite interior lineman of the 2014 senior class, Swanson ranks as a close second. Athletic, powerful and versatile (some view him as a potential guard convert), Swanson will continue former Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema's tradition of churning out quality NFL prospects along the offensive line.

23. OLB Ryan Shazier, Ohio State (6-2, 226, 4.58)* -- Shazier may be 10-15 pounds lighter than scouts would prefer, but his instincts, speed and bone-jarring hits make him a fearful defender opponents must account for on every snap.

24. QB Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M (5-11, 210, 4.45)* -- Manziel's vision, elusiveness and accuracy while on the move make him a mesmerizing prospect, but red flags were raised with mediocre performances against LSU and Missouri to end the regular season. Bottled in the pocket by both, Manziel was unable to throw his receivers open and he struggled. The NFL rule books have never been more accommodating to dual-threat passers, but consistent accuracy from the pocket remains the most critical element to quarterback play at the next level.

25. WR Brandin Cooks, Oregon State (5-10, 186)* -- Beavers coach Mike Riley has made a career out of finding undersized pass-catchers to star in his offense, but Cooks is a different level of athlete than Sammie Stroughter, Markus Wheaton and the Rodgers brothers (James and Jacquizz). Boasting a combination of elusiveness, acceleration and toughness that is earning comparisons to Percy Harvin, the Biletnikof Award finalist is rewriting school and conference record books with 120 catches for 1,670 yards and 15 touchdowns in the regular season.

26. CB Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State (6-0, 200) -- In terms of size, agility and speed, no cornerback offers a more intriguing skill-set. Gilbert ranks among the nation's leaders with six interceptions this season (through 10 games) and has returned just as many kickoffs for touchdowns during his time in Stillwater.

27. DT Will Sutton, Arizona State (6-0, 305) -- Perhaps due to concerns about how he would hold up in the NFL, Sutton gained weight for his senior season and hasn't been as dominant as last year, when he recorded an astounding 23.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks. Though Sutton's production has tailed off, he remains a difference-maker in the middle due to his quickness, punch and ability to tie up multiple blockers. His matchup this week against Stanford's terrific offensive line is a must-see for talent evaluators.

28. DT Ra'Shede Hageman, Minnesota (6-6, 311, 4.95) -- Blessed with an extraordinary combination of size and athleticism, Hageman could join Michael Brockers and Dontari Poe as recent big defensive tackles whose real rise up draft boards doesn't begin until the Scouting Combine. Hageman has looked unblockable at times, but he struggles with consistency.

29. CB Jason Verrett, TCU (5-10, 182, 4.49) -- Verrett lacks the size so en vogue in today's NFL, but agility and ball-skills never go out of style for cornerbacks. Verrett led the Big 12 with 22 passes defended and six interceptions in 2012, and he's tied for the lead in PBUs again this year (16) while recording two pass thefts. While light, Verrett is scrappy and tenacious, making him an ideal nickel corner with the tackling ability to threaten on an occasional blitz.

30. TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington (6-6, 276)* -- The third-year junior didn't enjoy the flashy season many projected, but much of that is due to the fact that the Huskies chose to use Seferian-Jenkins more as a blocker and decoy rather than as the focal point of their offense. Seferian-Jenkins may not possess the straight-line speed of the two tight ends ranked higher on this list (UNC's Ebron, Texas Tech's Amaro), but he possesses rare body control of a man his size and is a more polished blocker.

31. ILB Shayne Skov, Stanford (6-2, 245) -- I'll be the first to admit it, I'm a sucker for instinctive, physical inside linebackers, and that is precisely what Skov has proven himself to be over his distinguished career. While Skov may lack elite straight-line speed, his diagnosis skills, power and ability to make big plays have stood out in each of Stanford's biggest games this season.

32. QB Brett Hundley, UCLA (6-3, 222)* -- If he elects to declare early for the 2014 draft, Hundley will be giving up two years of eligibility; time that could be spent honing his obvious talents. He has a strong, accurate arm and is a graceful, elusive scrambling threat but too often looks to run rather than exhausting his passing options. Bottom line: Hundley is raw, but so gifted that the potential reward may outweigh the risk.

Just missed the cut:

DT Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh

WR Jordan Matthews, Vanderbilt

OT Brandon Scherff, Iowa*

RB Ka'Deem Carey, Arizona*

OG David Yankey, Stanford

OLB Vic Beasley, Clemson*

WR Allen Robinson, Penn State*

FS Hasean Clinton-Dix, Alabama*

OT La'el Collins, LSU*

CB Bradley Roby, Ohio State*

OG Xavier Su'a-Filo, UCLA*

DE/OLB Trevor Reilly, Utah

OT Greg Robinson, Auburn*

DT Ego Ferguson, LSU*

OLB Kyle Van Noy, BYU

Rob Rang is a senior analyst for NFLDraftScout.com. He can be found on Twitter @RobRang.

 

[EBF]

I don't play IDP, but Skov is a beast. High motor, nimble, strong, and instinctive. Very good player.

 

[Whitney26]

I know several of us still have Michael Dyer on the radar. His recent lack of playing time is apparently due to a lower body injury. At least he's not in the doghouse.

http://www.thecardinalconnect.com/2013/12/04/valuable-info-revealed-regarding-the-disappearance-of-michael-dyer/

 

[Whitney26]

I don't play IDP, but Skov is a beast. High motor, nimble, strong, and instinctive. Very good player.

I really enjoy and respect your opinions. This, however, is one thing you must rectify. IDP throws an entirely different spin on things and I can't imagine playing anything else. You ought to give a try.

 

[EBF]

I don't play IDP, but Skov is a beast. High motor, nimble, strong, and instinctive. Very good player.

I really enjoy and respect your opinions. This, however, is one thing you must rectify. IDP throws an entirely different spin on things and I can't imagine playing anything else. You ought to give a try.

I've tried it. It was okay, but I just didn't want to invest the time in monitoring twice the players every season. It is hard enough as it is just keeping up with the movement at QB/RB/WR/TE.

 

[EBF]

I know several of us still have Michael Dyer on the radar. His recent lack of playing time is apparently due to a lower body injury. At least he's not in the doghouse.

http://www.thecardinalconnect.com/2013/12/04/valuable-info-revealed-regarding-the-disappearance-of-michael-dyer/

Good news and bad news. If he isn't healthy enough to play and his DNPs have been injury-related then he might come back for yet another NCAA season. That would be his FIFTH year out of high school. Just go pro already.

 

[Whitney26]

I don't play IDP, but Skov is a beast. High motor, nimble, strong, and instinctive. Very good player.

I really enjoy and respect your opinions. This, however, is one thing you must rectify. IDP throws an entirely different spin on things and I can't imagine playing anything else. You ought to give a try.

I've tried it. It was okay, but I just didn't want to invest the time in monitoring twice the players every season. It is hard enough as it is just keeping up with the movement at QB/RB/WR/TE.

That is understandable. It does take a lot of time.

As far as Dyer is concerned, I agree. Even if he comes back for another season, I can't imagine it improving his draft stock "that" much. I hope he declares. I can't imagine someone not taking a shot on him late...i.e. Bryce Brown.

 

[ZWK]

Greg Peshek has another article out with college RB metrics from his game charting, this one on Carlos Hyde, Andre Williams, and Jeremy Hill. (He previously covered Seastrunk, Gordon, Sankey, Carey, Andrews, and Grice.)

Based solely on the stats in his articles (especially the elusiveness numbers - yards after contact & broken tackle rate), it looks to me like there is a pretty clear top 3 in Melvin Gordon, Carlos Hyde, and Lache Seastrunk.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Greg Peshek has another article out with college RB metrics from his game charting, this one on Carlos Hyde, Andre Williams, and Jeremy Hill. (He previously covered Seastrunk, Gordon, Sankey, Carey, Andrews, and Grice.)

Based solely on the stats in his articles (especially the elusiveness numbers - yards after contact & broken tackle rate), it looks to me like there is a pretty clear top 3 in Melvin Gordon, Carlos Hyde, and Lache Seastrunk.

Interesting stuff as always, but I find it hard to believe that the 3 RBs who put up the best RB metric stats just happen to be on the 3 teams that probably have the most dominant offensive system/offensive lines of those tested so far. That's part of what makes NFL metric stats significantly inferior to MLB metric stats, cause there's so many other variables that affect a player's performance on any given play.

 

[JFS171]

Greg Peshek has another article out with college RB metrics from his game charting, this one on Carlos Hyde, Andre Williams, and Jeremy Hill. (He previously covered Seastrunk, Gordon, Sankey, Carey, Andrews, and Grice.)

Based solely on the stats in his articles (especially the elusiveness numbers - yards after contact & broken tackle rate), it looks to me like there is a pretty clear top 3 in Melvin Gordon, Carlos Hyde, and Lache Seastrunk.

Peshak's summary:

Carlos Hyde is your every-down guy. You can put him in on third and short and feel as comfortable as you do with him on first and ten. Jeremy Hill is interesting as an inside runner who can push the pile when you need it, but you’d be a bit worried that may not translate to the NFL and that he won’t be nearly as effective if he needs to bounce it outside. Andre Williams is the big back who doesn’t play big. His speed to the outside is intriguing, but are those stretches that BC runs going to be there in the NFL? I wouldn’t be comfortable putting him in on 3rd and short.

Think this draft has some nice potential at RB depending on where guys land... there's the higher profile guys like Seastrunk, Gordon, Hyde, Hill, Williams... then a bunch of guys that could be risers as we get deeper in the process:

--Carey

--Sankey

--Dyer

--Crowell

--Grice

--Freeman

The list goes on...

IMO, this draft has a LOT of potential -- maybe not the elite level talent, but a ton of depth at QB (talk of Carr, Fales, Bortles, Hundley, McCarron, Murray, Mettenberger), a lot of depth at WR and TE, and the potential for a lot of depth at RB.

 

[lod01]

This draft is chalk full of talent. 1/2 dozen QBs have an opportunity to become franchise QBs. Boatload of good RBs and WRs. 2 awesome TE's with a 3rd right behind. Would like to see ATL and NYG get the TEs since both desperately need a stud TE.

Amaro would work out great in NYG and Ebron would be a better fit in ATL. I doubt Gomer can get the ball to Ebron as well as Amaro.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Scouts Inc.'s Kevin Weidl believes one area where Alabama senior QB A.J. McCarron excels is working the pocket.

McCarron has a "great feel and constantly keeps (his) eyes downfield," Weidl tweeted. The senior does not feel pressure in the pocket frequently, but pocket movement is evident for the most part. There were a few occasions where McCarron fell off his throws against Virginia Tech, and he might lack the arm to test dwonfield when throwing on the move.


Source: Kevin Weidl on Twitter

All indications point to UCF redshirt junior QB Blake Bortles submitting paperwork to the NFL Draft Advisory Board, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Keep in mind this does not mean Bortles is declaring for the draft, but he likely wants to gauge where his current draft projection is. The Draft Advisory Board is usually fairly tame with their projections, however, we wouldn;t be surprised if Bortles earns an early grade. He will earn a "poor man's" Andrew Luck comparison, thanks to similar pocket movement and vision.


Source: Orlando Sentinel

Alabama senior A.J. McCarron jumped up to No. 4 in NFL.com draft writer Bucky Brooks' rankings of the top QBs in college football.

McCarron was No. 6 last week and only sits behind Jameis Winston, Derek Carr, and Teddy Bridgewater. "The game manager label is affixed to McCarron's name, but the senior quarterback continues to prove the critics wrong with a penchant for playmaking in key moments," Brooks writes. "More important, he delivered a few dimes that showcased his arm strength and touch on vertical throws." There has been some buzz linking McCarron to the first-round, and we wouldn't be surprised with a selection in the top 40. That does not mean we agree, however.


Source: NFL.com

 

[Faust]

2014 NFL Mock Draft 3.1: Adjusting for Marcus Mariota’s decision to return to school

 

[Faust]

Top Prospect of Week 14: Penn State WR Allen Robinson

By Rob Rang | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com

December 4, 2013 9:06 pm ET

Each Wednesday of the college football season NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst Rob Rang will identify his Prospect of the Week. To qualify, the player must have played a significant role in their team's performance against a quality opponent, demonstrating not only effectiveness as the collegiate level but the rare traits to demand the attention of pro scouts, as well.

Top Prospect of Week 14: Penn State WR Allen RobinsonNFL scouts flocking to see Penn State take on Wisconsin is certainly nothing new.

For the top prospects on both teams to play wide receiver, however, is a bit unusual.

The elite pass-catchers in the Big Ten put on a show Saturday afternoon as Allen Robinson's Nittany Lions surprised Jared Abberderis and the No. 15 ranked Badgers, winning 31-24.

Each receiver played well, showing off the contrasting styles that project nicely to the next level. On this day, however, it was the junior from Penn State who starred.

Robinson, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound junior, is the physical prototype, blending great size, strength and acceleration to project as a future NFL star. He's much more fluid than his lanky frame would suggest and showed great power and determination in this contest, fighting off would-be tacklers to generate yards after the catch.

Abbrederis, listed at 6-foot-1, 190-pounds, relies on quickness and body control rather than straight-line speed or power to generate separation from defenders. Those tasked with stopping him have a day of sore feet ahead of them, as he is an absolute ankle-breaker. The Badgers' senior used his great quickness to consistently get open against Penn State, catching a game-high 12 passes for 135 yards.

While Abbrederis was statistically superior, Robinson (eight catches for 122 yards) was the more impressive performer, utilizing his straight-line speed and strength to blow past the Badgers' for big plays or simply shoving defenders out of the way to generate yardage after the catch.

As the clear focal point in head coach Bill O'Brien's quick-hitting pro-style attack, Robinson isn't just talented, he's developing into a polished route-runner and hands-catcher. He's used on a variety of routes which just make his projection to the NFL that much easier.

Robinson's biggest play of the game, for example, came off of a quick screen in the first quarter. With 9:00 remaining in the open quarter and the Nittany Lions facing a 2nd and 13 from their own 27-yard line, Robinson went in motion towards the Penn State (left) sideline. At the snap he hesitated, caught the quick pass from quarterback Christian Hackenberg and showed off his vision, fluidity and acceleration, cutting first towards the middle of the field and then back to the left to run down the sideline for a gain of 52 yards.

His first catch of the game was a quick slant against press coverage on Penn State's opening drive. Showing the savvy scouts are looking for, Robinson took an initial step and then hesitated, freezing talented Wisconsin cornerback Sojour Shelton, before breaking sharply at a 45 degree angle to collect the pass from Hackenberg for an easy first down.

While Robinson's quickness and acceleration make him more than capable of lining up inside as a slot receiver in the NFL (as he often does for Penn State), it is his size, physicality and leaping ability which consistently beat up the Badgers Saturday.

With the Nittany Lions trailing 14-7 in the closing minutes of the first half, Robinson ran an 18-yard square-in and leapt into the air to haul down a high pass from Hackenberg to give Penn State first and goal from the two-yard line. The pass was thrown where only Robinson could catch it but robbed him of the opportunity to do anything after making the grab.

Robinson was featured on the Nittany Lions' first drive following the half, diving back towards his quarterback and getting his hands underneath the football to save one low pass for a first down and showing off his strength to push aside Shelton and linebacker Derek Landisch after catching a quick out for another one.

The variety of routes run, receiver positions played and the ability to gain separation against both press-man and off coverage is an indication of Robinson's polish. His consistent production this season is another.

Saturday was the eighth time this season the First Team All-Big Ten wideout eclipsed the 100-yard mark. Despite catching just three passes for 29 yards as a true freshman two years ago, Robinson's 175 career receptions rank second in school history to Deon Butler's 177.

With the Nittany Lions ineligible for a bowl this season due to NCAA sanctions, it remains to be seen if the next pass Robinson catches comes with Penn State or in the NFL. The junior has said that he'll discuss his options with his family and make a decision over Penn State's holiday break.

Prospect of the Week Archives:

Week 1: Alabama WR/RS Christion Jones
Week 2: Miami LB Denzel Perryman
Week 3: Washington RB Bishop Sankey
Week 4: Fresno State QB Derek Carr
Week 5: Texas A&M OT Jake Matthews
Week 6: TCU CB Jason Verrett
Week 7: Texas Tech TE Jace Amaro
Week 8: Florida State OLB Telvin Smith
Week 9: Stanford DE/OLB Trent Murphy
Week 10: Michigan State CB Darqueze Dennard
Week 11: Wisconsin ILB Chris Borland
Week 12: Boston College RB Andre Williams
Week 13: LSU OT La'el Collins

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Miami senior QB Stephen Morris has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game.

It seems like the six Senior Bowl quarterbacks will be A.J. McCarron, Derek Carr, Logan Thomas, Jimmy Garoppolo, Tajh Boyd, and David Fales. Morris has tons of talent and throws one of the best vertical passes in the country, but he struggles with decision making and consistency.


Source: Shrine Game on Twitter

 

[Faust]

Video: Fales, Ekpre-Olomu rising while Clinton-Dix, Amaro slip

 

[MAC_32]

Happy to see we may get to see Bortles against another real defense. I was impressed with his performances vs. Louisville and Penn State, but he struggled a bit vs. the South Carolina pressure.

 

[FUBAR]

Rotoworld:

Miami senior QB Stephen Morris has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game.

It seems like the six Senior Bowl quarterbacks will be A.J. McCarron, Derek Carr, Logan Thomas, Jimmy Garoppolo, Tajh Boyd, and David Fales. Morris has tons of talent and throws one of the best vertical passes in the country, but he struggles with decision making and consistency.


Source: Shrine Game on Twitter

How many QBs have had these issues in college and been successful in the NFL? Struggling with decision making is a HUGE red flag.

 

[MAC_32]

Rotoworld:

Miami senior QB Stephen Morris has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game.

It seems like the six Senior Bowl quarterbacks will be A.J. McCarron, Derek Carr, Logan Thomas, Jimmy Garoppolo, Tajh Boyd, and David Fales. Morris has tons of talent and throws one of the best vertical passes in the country, but he struggles with decision making and consistency.


Source: Shrine Game on Twitter

How many QBs have had these issues in college and been successful in the NFL? Struggling with decision making is a HUGE red flag.

I'll bet anything Morris isn't successful too. I'd rather my team brought in someone else as the 7th round project.

 

[Concept Coop]

This draft is chalk full of talent. 1/2 dozen QBs have an opportunity to become franchise QBs. Boatload of good RBs and WRs. 2 awesome TE's with a 3rd right behind. Would like to see ATL and NYG get the TEs since both desperately need a stud TE.

Amaro would work out great in NYG and Ebron would be a better fit in ATL. I doubt Gomer can get the ball to Ebron as well as Amaro.

It's certainly deep, but it's not very top heavy, in my opinion.

Kiper surprised me by cooling on Bridgewater a bit, essentially suggesting that Teddy is a reach at the top pick, and should be picked in the 4-9 range. Say what you want about Kiper, but he's plugged in. A lot of his dramatic stance changes come to fruition. It could mean nothing, or it could mean the NFL doesn't view Teddy as the no-brainer franchise guy that we expected them to.

Mariota going back to school hurt. His rushing potential will be missed this year. There are other options, but with QB so deep right now, it takes a lot for QBs to matter in most rookie drafts. I don't think we'll see owners reaching for Carr, Fales, or Boyd, pushing skill position talent down. Manziel is a wildcard, and, if drafted high enough, could join Teddy as a fantasy relevant QB prospect.

The RB spot is getting no love from draftniks. Especially if Gordon returns to school, I'm a bit worried. All of these guys have warts, and the opinions on them are all over the board. Lache is a favorite in dynasty circles, but he's not universally accepted as the top back or a first round talent outside of it. The large majority of mock drafts have zero RBs in the first round, and very few in the 2nd. I like the 2nd tier guys, and expect situation to be a major divide, as it was this year. I think backs 3-7 will be better than 2013 (Bell, Ball, Michael, etc), but I'm not sure about backs 1 and 2; again, especially if Gordon goes back to school.

WR is solid at the top, but no Dez, Julio, Green, or even Blackmon. I really like the depth. There will be some high quality WR options late first/early second in most rookie drafts. There are about 7 guys who have a chance to be 1st round NFL picks. I think the WR depth is the strongest apsect of this draft. There will be some interesting names in the late 2nd/early 3rd even; Hoffman and Coleman are a couple I expect to target in that range, and feel good about. While that's great - fantasy WR production is as deep as it's ever been. In general, fantasy owners are fine at WR2/3. Should we really be excited to add another with a mid-late first?

TE is fun this year, but I'll be shying away from the top options. Their market value is more likely to dip in the first year than not. If you need a TE, buy Eifert - he's cheaper than he was a year ago and for good reason: The 2nd and 3rd tier TE production is flooding. I won't be spending a first round pick on a TE when there are so many other options out there. I think the play - given the current state of the position - is to ID value and play the odds, rather than going all in on the top rookies.

I don't know that this is a great year to be at the top. WR is so deep that landing Watkins or Evans doesn't feel like a win. You're almost forced to go RB or trade. And that RB might not be a first round NFL pick, or even as sexy as Lache seemed a few weeks ago. It's starting to feel a lot like last year at the top. I'll happily take Watkins/Evans/Lee over Tavon/Patterson/Nuk - so it is better. But the conundrum could still be there and the 1.01 might not be worth much more than the 1.05 again.

 

[Milkman]

With Davante Adams coming out there are 3 maybe 4 WR1 level prospects coming out. If Gordon changes his mind the top 4-5 prospects are pushing elite level.

Watkins

Seastrunk

Lee

Gordon

Evans

I agree there is no AJ Green level prospect in this draft. Still looks super sexy at the top and Davante Adams is a bit of a wild card who could sneak into the top half of the first round which would have him going in the top half of rookie drafts too.

 

[lod01]

This draft is chalk full of talent. 1/2 dozen QBs have an opportunity to become franchise QBs. Boatload of good RBs and WRs. 2 awesome TE's with a 3rd right behind. Would like to see ATL and NYG get the TEs since both desperately need a stud TE.

Amaro would work out great in NYG and Ebron would be a better fit in ATL. I doubt Gomer can get the ball to Ebron as well as Amaro.

It's certainly deep, but it's not very top heavy, in my opinion.

That is true. It will be a case of finding the gems. As a dynasty owner, those are the best classes. The ones with Julio and AJ Green? The worst fantasy owner on the planet wouldn't miss on them. Classes like this one are where you have to evaluate the talent. But there are a lot of guys.

 

[JFS171]

This draft is chalk full of talent. 1/2 dozen QBs have an opportunity to become franchise QBs. Boatload of good RBs and WRs. 2 awesome TE's with a 3rd right behind. Would like to see ATL and NYG get the TEs since both desperately need a stud TE.

Amaro would work out great in NYG and Ebron would be a better fit in ATL. I doubt Gomer can get the ball to Ebron as well as Amaro.

It's certainly deep, but it's not very top heavy, in my opinion.

Kiper surprised me by cooling on Bridgewater a bit, essentially suggesting that Teddy is a reach at the top pick, and should be picked in the 4-9 range. Say what you want about Kiper, but he's plugged in. A lot of his dramatic stance changes come to fruition. It could mean nothing, or it could mean the NFL doesn't view Teddy as the no-brainer franchise guy that we expected them to.

Mariota going back to school hurt. His rushing potential will be missed this year. There are other options, but with QB so deep right now, it takes a lot for QBs to matter in most rookie drafts. I don't think we'll see owners reaching for Carr, Fales, or Boyd, pushing skill position talent down. Manziel is a wildcard, and, if drafted high enough, could join Teddy as a fantasy relevant QB prospect.

The RB spot is getting no love from draftniks. Especially if Gordon returns to school, I'm a bit worried. All of these guys have warts, and the opinions on them are all over the board. Lache is a favorite in dynasty circles, but he's not universally accepted as the top back or a first round talent outside of it. The large majority of mock drafts have zero RBs in the first round, and very few in the 2nd. I like the 2nd tier guys, and expect situation to be a major divide, as it was this year. I think backs 3-7 will be better than 2013 (Bell, Ball, Michael, etc), but I'm not sure about backs 1 and 2; again, especially if Gordon goes back to school.

WR is solid at the top, but no Dez, Julio, Green, or even Blackmon. I really like the depth. There will be some high quality WR options late first/early second in most rookie drafts. There are about 7 guys who have a chance to be 1st round NFL picks. I think the WR depth is the strongest apsect of this draft. There will be some interesting names in the late 2nd/early 3rd even; Hoffman and Coleman are a couple I expect to target in that range, and feel good about. While that's great - fantasy WR production is as deep as it's ever been. In general, fantasy owners are fine at WR2/3. Should we really be excited to add another with a mid-late first?

TE is fun this year, but I'll be shying away from the top options. Their market value is more likely to dip in the first year than not. If you need a TE, buy Eifert - he's cheaper than he was a year ago and for good reason: The 2nd and 3rd tier TE production is flooding. I won't be spending a first round pick on a TE when there are so many other options out there. I think the play - given the current state of the position - is to ID value and play the odds, rather than going all in on the top rookies.

I don't know that this is a great year to be at the top. WR is so deep that landing Watkins or Evans doesn't feel like a win. You're almost forced to go RB or trade. And that RB might not be a first round NFL pick, or even as sexy as Lache seemed a few weeks ago. It's starting to feel a lot like last year at the top. I'll happily take Watkins/Evans/Lee over Tavon/Patterson/Nuk - so it is better. But the conundrum could still be there and the 1.01 might not be worth much more than the 1.05 again.

I definitely agree with the depth, and the concerns about the QB class are well founded. The RBs could be deep and solid, or really struggle - as LOD said, it will be a draft where owners will be forced to evaluate for themselves (which makes me happy).

I'd question there not being a Blackmon-level prospect though. Watkins before dipping his Sophomore year was a sensation. The past year he's been great as well, and I don't really think a whole lot of Taj Boyd as a QB. I could be wrong, but I'd put Watkins right on par with Blackmon... and that class (Blackmon, Floyd, Jeffery) could be matched pretty equally by this one (Watkins, Lee, Robinson, Evans).

Situation could matter a lot, especially for the RBs. Sitting on the 1.6 in my draft, I'm frankly hoping the buzz on Lache dies a little as I'd love to land him without trading up... I'm sold on the kid, but I could be wrong.

 

[Concept Coop]

With Davante Adams coming out there are 3 maybe 4 WR1 level prospects coming out. If Gordon changes his mind the top 4-5 prospects are pushing elite level.

Watkins

Seastrunk

Lee

Gordon

Evans

I agree there is no AJ Green level prospect in this draft. Still looks super sexy at the top and Davante Adams is a bit of a wild card who could sneak into the top half of the first round which would have him going in the top half of rookie drafts too.

It depends on how we all feel about the players involved, of course. My concern is that we seem to like Lache more than draftniks do. If the NFL feels the same, and he's only a Gio/Lacy level prospect (at the time of the draft), the class takes a major hit. Lacy and Gio both worked out and their owners are all likely very happy. But, as prospects, they were not ideal 1.01 candidates.

Watkins and Evans both have potential, but I think they both have questions, too. Watkins is a better NFL prospect than fantasy prospect in PPR leagues - can he be a 100 catch/year threat? Evans will quiet or validate a lot of concerns at the combine, but doesn't look like a special NFL athlete at times. I don't think anyone can be excited about taking Lee first overall, after the season he's had.

A lot can change, but today - I'd have a hard time using a top 3 on these WRs, and feeling great about it (compared to most years, and considering how deep the current WR crop is). I just hope the RB options look better in April than they do now, at the top.

 

[Concept Coop]

I'd question there not being a Blackmon-level prospect though. Watkins before dipping his Sophomore year was a sensation. The past year he's been great as well, and I don't really think a whole lot of Taj Boyd as a QB. I could be wrong, but I'd put Watkins right on par with Blackmon... and that class (Blackmon, Floyd, Jeffery) could be matched pretty equally by this one (Watkins, Lee, Robinson, Evans).

I'd put Watkins on par in standard formats (and even as NFL prospects), but not in PPR. That's just my opinion, and I could be very wrong. I just have some questions about Watkins being an overall threat at the next level - getting the possession and redzone targets needed to be a top PPR option. I really hopes he weighs in at his listed 205, but I doubt it as of right now. He doesn't look 10 pounds heavier than Lee, and only 5 pounds lighter than Blackmon.

ETA: After giving it some thought, I take that back. I'd call Sammy a Blackmon-level prospect. There were questions about Blackmon's ability to create space, and Sammy's floor feels like current Torrey Smith to me, which is plenty safe.

 

[Xue]

Source:

Florida State redshirt sophomore WR Kelvin Benjamin was ranked by NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah as the player who improved his stock the most this past weekend.

Benjamin caught nine passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns in Saturday's 37-7 demolition of Florida. "His combination of size and athleticism is rare, but I was most impressed with his ball skills on Saturday," Jeremiah wrote. "He made several impressive adjustments to corral the deep ball." Although Benjamin is criminally under-discussed, we think there is a good chance he bolts for the draft after this season. Benjamin, who turns 23 in February, dominates at the catch point, a vital skill at the next level.

Source: NFL.com

Benjamin is 2 months older than Josh Gordon.

 

[EBF]

Watkins and Evans both have potential, but I think they both have questions, too. Watkins is a better NFL prospect than fantasy prospect in PPR leagues - can he be a 100 catch/year threat? Evans will quiet or validate a lot of concerns at the combine, but doesn't look like a special NFL athlete at times. I don't think anyone can be excited about taking Lee first overall, after the season he's had.

A lot can change, but today - I'd have a hard time using a top 3 on these WRs, and feeling great about it (compared to most years, and considering how deep the current WR crop is). I just hope the RB options look better in April than they do now, at the top.

Lee has been dealing with injuries for much of the year. I think he has looked good when healthy. He has been productive when you look at his career as a whole.

There are a couple ways you can try to assess a draft class. One is just looking at how high the players are projected to go. Another is actually assessing the players and trying to figure out whether they're worth the pick they're projected to cost. I think last year's class was weak at the top from that standpoint, whereas this year's class is strong.

Personally, I did not like most of last year's draft class relative to where the players were selected. I was always pretty high on Eifert, but I was down on Tavon/Hopkins/Patterson and did not draft them anywhere. I considered them weak prospects relative to the typical 1st round WR and could not talk myself into drafting any of them when I was on the clock at 1.02. I feel a lot better about this year's class from that standpoint. Maybe these players won't go much higher than last year's (although I think there will be more WRs in the first round), but I like them more relative to where they're likely to be selected. For example, I considered Tavon a weak top 10 pick and Hopkins a weak late 1st, but I think Watkins is a more typical top 10 pick and Lee/Robinson both clearly better than Hopkins/Patterson. I'd feel really good about having any top 4-5 pick this year, as I think you're likely to have some near can't-miss options.

I also like this year's 2nd round rookie picks more based on who I expect to be available. So for me it's an exciting class to invest in. Much more so than last year and probably more than what figures to be out there next year too.

 

[Faust]

Stanford RB Tyler Gaffney's stats will get hard look from scouts

 

[Concept Coop]

...

I agree with much of this, especially if 2013 is the measuring stick. But if we ranked the value of the 1.01 over the last decade, 2014 has to be near the bottom. This is compounded by the fact that the pros and cons of this draft mirror the strengths and weaknesses of the current crop of dynasty players. "WR depth!" isn't exactly what most owners are looking for in a draft class right now.

Again, this could change with a RB prospect or 2 presenting themselves as worthy top 3-5 candidates. Fingers crossed.

 

[EBF]

Bear in mind that last year's RB class didn't have a single guy in the 1st round and yet we've seen Bernard, Bell, and Lacy all make big immediate impacts. I think FF success at RB is highly dependent on opportunity, so any second tier talent who gets thrust into a starting role will have a chance to pop right away like those guys did. And it's inevitable that you get a few of those per draft class.

 

[JFS171]

Bear in mind that last year's RB class didn't have a single guy in the 1st round and yet we've seen Bernard, Bell, and Lacy all make big immediate impacts. I think FF success at RB is highly dependent on opportunity, so any second tier talent who gets thrust into a starting role will have a chance to pop right away like those guys did. And it's inevitable that you get a few of those per draft class.

That's true - I also think the shifting of the NFL to the *devaluing* of the RB position is partially to blame for the lack of 1st round RBs. Point being, I don't necessarily take the lack of a first round draft slot to be quite as damning for RB prospects...

 

[Concept Coop]

Bear in mind that last year's RB class didn't have a single guy in the 1st round and yet we've seen Bernard, Bell, and Lacy all make big immediate impacts. I think FF success at RB is highly dependent on opportunity, so any second tier talent who gets thrust into a starting role will have a chance to pop right away like those guys did. And it's inevitable that you get a few of those per draft class.

True. Where I own picks in the 4-6 range, I feel fine. There will be Bell/Lacy/Bernard/Ball type players in that range. Without the benefit of hindsight, however, I would not feel great about those 4 (as prospects, at the time of the draft) being my options at 1.01 in any year. Pre-workout/injury news-Lacy was the closest for me.

Outside of the top 3-4 picks, I like this draft a lot, actually.

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Saturday's Big 10 Championship gives Michigan State senior CB Darqueze Dennard "another chance to rise," writes NFL.com's Albert Breer.

"The matchup with the Buckeye offense will be the proverbial 'first tape to pop in' for scouts in the spring," Breer wrote. An AFC college scouting director quoted in the column agreed that Dennard will have plenty of eyes on him Saturday: "He's fast, he doesn't get beat, (and is) a tough, sound tackler -- just a good all-around player. And this is the chance to show up against a high-powered offense in both coverage and run support."


Source: NFL.com

 

[Faust]

NFL Draft: Norris' Top 32

 

[JFS171]

Any thoughts on Karlos Williams from FSU? He's a junior, so technically draft eligible, though he just switched to RB this past offseason...

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Any thoughts on Karlos Williams from FSU? He's a junior, so technically draft eligible, though he just switched to RB this past offseason...

Absolute stud. Size/speed combination is just off the charts. Guy has as basically a limitless upside imo, I could see him being the best RB in the NFL for a multiple year stretch.

I think (and hope) he's gonna stay for another year given how few carries he's received this season, especially since Wilder and probably Freeman will leave. Would love to see him get a full complement of carries next year, and I'm sure so would NFL GMs.

 

[JFS171]

Any thoughts on Karlos Williams from FSU? He's a junior, so technically draft eligible, though he just switched to RB this past offseason...

Absolute stud. Size/speed combination is just off the charts. Guy has as basically a limitless upside imo, I could see him being the best RB in the NFL for a multiple year stretch.

I think (and hope) he's gonna stay for another year given how few carries he's received this season, especially since Wilder and probably Freeman will leave. Would love to see him get a full complement of carries next year, and I'm sure so would NFL GMs.

Kind of wish he'd come out personally. Under the radar types like him are how you get the leg up on your league mates. Plus I'm not looking at a pick high enough to land him next yet if he explodes.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Any thoughts on Karlos Williams from FSU? He's a junior, so technically draft eligible, though he just switched to RB this past offseason...

Absolute stud. Size/speed combination is just off the charts. Guy has as basically a limitless upside imo, I could see him being the best RB in the NFL for a multiple year stretch.

I think (and hope) he's gonna stay for another year given how few carries he's received this season, especially since Wilder and probably Freeman will leave. Would love to see him get a full complement of carries next year, and I'm sure so would NFL GMs.

Kind of wish he'd come out personally. Under the radar types like him are how you get the leg up on your league mates. Plus I'm not looking at a pick high enough to land him next yet if he explodes.

From us fantasy players point of view it's probably best that he declares now, but from his point of view I'm thinking he's better off staying 1 more year.

 

[Milkman]

Any thoughts on Karlos Williams from FSU? He's a junior, so technically draft eligible, though he just switched to RB this past offseason...

Absolute stud. Size/speed combination is just off the charts. Guy has as basically a limitless upside imo, I could see him being the best RB in the NFL for a multiple year stretch.

I think (and hope) he's gonna stay for another year given how few carries he's received this season, especially since Wilder and probably Freeman will leave. Would love to see him get a full complement of carries next year, and I'm sure so would NFL GMs.

Wow those are some strong opinions. Going to have to investigate this guy more. Any reason why he didn't win more playing time at FSU?

 

[Donnybrook]

Currently watch Derek Carr and not impressed. He operates strictly out of the shotgun and rarely get to second read. He reminds me of Blaine Gabbert.

 

[Xue]

Currently watch Derek Carr and not impressed. He operates strictly out of the shotgun and rarely get to second read. He reminds me of Blaine Gabbert.

Most NFL QBs operate out of shotgun. Carr played under center in 2010-2011.

 

[Donnybrook]

Currently watch Derek Carr and not impressed. He operates strictly out of the shotgun and rarely get to second read. He reminds me of Blaine Gabbert.

Most NFL QBs operate out of shotgun. Carr played under center in 2010-2011.

His stats are inflated because the level of competition. If Utah state is the best defense he has faced all year, I can't take the Carr hype seriously.

 

[EBF]

Ty Montgomery with two more TDs tonight for Stanford. Looked pretty good on both scores. To get double digit TDs and potentially 1000 yards receiving (depending on what happens in the Rose Bowl) on a run-first team with an erratic passer at QB is a pretty great achievement.