DYNASTY: Top 2013 College Prospects (2 Viewers)

[thriftyrocker]

NFL teams are drafting specialists at the RB position now. SF really liked what Hunter brought to the table and still drafted James to eventually bring a different look. I woudln't say James' odds of being a fantasy starting option are high.

That's a decent example but is he a COP/specialist or just started the season 3rd on the depth chart? Coachspeak from Harbaugh was that either LMJ or KH could be feature RB. Gore has been healthy and he only played 4 games, so who knows what he is now. If Gore retired after the SB, LMJ is a dynasty RB2.

An NFL team can absolutely draft a player (say Gio) to be a 3rd down/COP/return man. And, as I said, if the NFL invests a high pick in him, I obviously trust their opinion more than my own. I'll likely come around.Based on what I have seen - and again, who the hell am I? - I don't think he is a close to a 1st round prospect.

That's fine. Neither was Westbrook or Charles. Or McCoy. Or Murray. Or Vereen. He still has upside and in this draft class should be drafted high in fantasy drafts.

 

[Concept Coop]

That's fine. Neither was Westbrook or Charles. Or McCoy. Or Murray. Or Vereen. He still has upside and in this draft class should be drafted high in fantasy drafts.

I don't understand your point, really. I don't like him, even in relation to the class. If you do, that's great. If the NFL does, that's even better; I want this class to be as strong as possible.

 

[Concept Coop]

That's a decent example but is he a COP/specialist or just started the season 3rd on the depth chart? Coachspeak from Harbaugh was that either LMJ or KH could be feature RB. Gore has been healthy and he only played 4 games, so who knows what he is now. If Gore retired after the SB, LMJ is a dynasty RB2.

I didn't reach said coachspeak, suggesting he is a potential feature RB. The Cowboys drafted Felix Jones to be a specialist/returner/COP/3rd down guy. I know they because they said it. And they used a 1st rounder on him.NFL teams DO use picks in the top 3 rounds on guys they don't expect to be 3 down backs.

 

[Time Kibitzer]

Re: Geno Smith...His best comp using only numbers is probably Brian Brohm. Loosening some of the restrictions to pick up a few more QBs you add Sanchez, Ponder and Henne. Not the best group. As a WVU homer I'd love to be wrong, but in this case what the numbers tell me matches up really well with what I actually saw when I watched him play -- he doesn't make decisions quickly, he has trouble working through his progressions, he's slow to recognize pressure in the pocket, and he's not really a running QB in the mold of Wilson or RGIII.

What numbers are you referring to here? I ask because Geno's passing stats blow Ponder's and Henne's out of the water. Obviously the type of offense Geno played in helped his stats immensely, and frankly I'm not a fan of Geno for a lot of the reasons you mentioned, but I'm curious how you used numbers to make a connection between Geno and Henne/Ponder/Sanchez.

 

[thriftyrocker]

That's a decent example but is he a COP/specialist or just started the season 3rd on the depth chart? Coachspeak from Harbaugh was that either LMJ or KH could be feature RB. Gore has been healthy and he only played 4 games, so who knows what he is now. If Gore retired after the SB, LMJ is a dynasty RB2.

I didn't reach said coachspeak, suggesting he is a potential feature RB.

http://www.49ers.com/news/article-2/LaMichael-James-Joins-49ers-Backfield/5009579d-6ccb-499f-af99-b93a27a02bb1“He’s proven he’s a multi-down back in our eyes,” Harbaugh added.“Just the unstoppable nature of him at the goal line,” Harbaugh recalled. “You could not stop that team once they got inside the 5-yard line.”“We never limit their roles,” general manager Trent Baalke said. http://blog.sfgate.com/49ers/2012/05/21/dare-to-compare-lamichael-james-vs-ray-rice/Harbaugh later said that, yes, he did think James was capable of handling a workload similar to that of Rice, who ranks fifth in the NFL in rushing attempts (852) since 2009 and ranked third in the league last year with 291. Harbaugh noted James, even at less than 200 pounds, was an excellent goal-line back at Oregon.

The Cowboys drafted Felix Jones to be a specialist/returner/COP/3rd down guy. I know they because they said it. And they used a 1st rounder on him.NFL teams DO use picks in the top 3 rounds on guys they don't expect to be 3 down backs.

It's true that's what they said and what they intended but he was still given opportunity to start. Because for approximately a year he was the best RB on their roster even with any limitations.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Re: Geno Smith...His best comp using only numbers is probably Brian Brohm. Loosening some of the restrictions to pick up a few more QBs you add Sanchez, Ponder and Henne. Not the best group. As a WVU homer I'd love to be wrong, but in this case what the numbers tell me matches up really well with what I actually saw when I watched him play -- he doesn't make decisions quickly, he has trouble working through his progressions, he's slow to recognize pressure in the pocket, and he's not really a running QB in the mold of Wilson or RGIII.

What numbers are you referring to here? I ask because Geno's passing stats blow Ponder's and Henne's out of the water. Obviously the type of offense Geno played in helped his stats immensely, and frankly I'm not a fan of Geno for a lot of the reasons you mentioned, but I'm curious how you used numbers to make a connection between Geno and Henne/Ponder/Sanchez.

Yeah... all of the traditional stuff Smith is way better than those three guys. Accuracy was one of the things I had to loosen to get more comparables than just Brohm.Without writing a novella, I think I'd describe what I'm looking at like this... when the pocket breaks down you can throw the ball away (Peyton, Brees, most top-tier 'traditional' QBs) scramble around behind the LOS and try to make something happen down field (Rodgers, Roeth) or you can run like hell (Vick, Wilson, RBIII). But if you can't consistently do one of those things then all the other stuff doesn't matter (accuracy, arm strength TD:INT, etc).

 

[cstu]

Re: Geno Smith...His best comp using only numbers is probably Brian Brohm. Loosening some of the restrictions to pick up a few more QBs you add Sanchez, Ponder and Henne. Not the best group. As a WVU homer I'd love to be wrong, but in this case what the numbers tell me matches up really well with what I actually saw when I watched him play -- he doesn't make decisions quickly, he has trouble working through his progressions, he's slow to recognize pressure in the pocket, and he's not really a running QB in the mold of Wilson or RGIII.

What numbers are you referring to here? I ask because Geno's passing stats blow Ponder's and Henne's out of the water. Obviously the type of offense Geno played in helped his stats immensely, and frankly I'm not a fan of Geno for a lot of the reasons you mentioned, but I'm curious how you used numbers to make a connection between Geno and Henne/Ponder/Sanchez.

Yeah... all of the traditional stuff Smith is way better than those three guys. Accuracy was one of the things I had to loosen to get more comparables than just Brohm.Without writing a novella, I think I'd describe what I'm looking at like this... when the pocket breaks down you can throw the ball away (Peyton, Brees, most top-tier 'traditional' QBs) scramble around behind the LOS and try to make something happen down field (Rodgers, Roeth) or you can run like hell (Vick, Wilson, RBIII). But if you can't consistently do one of those things then all the other stuff doesn't matter (accuracy, arm strength TD:INT, etc).

Geno looks like he has good pocket awareness and is able to scramble around very well when he has to. My major issue is that his deep ball is very inconsistent - sometimes it's great but many times, especially against top defenses, it leaves me shaking my head. He does well getting rid of the ball quickly and allowing his play makers to do what they do. I think he has potential to be a good, maybe great, NFL QB but in the right system. If he goes to KC then I think it's good news for McCluster and Wylie, but I don't think he's ideal for Baldwin. I might killed for this but he seems Tom Brady-ish.

 

[Xue]

Did you guys see what Shane Vereen did this past weekend? Yeah, that's what Bernard can do.

How many offenses can make a COP back a top 24 option? New England (potentially), New Orleans - who else?ETA: If the guy is a longshot to be a 3 down back, the odds of them being starting fantasy options are slim.

Vereen would be a starter/feature RB on any other team. It's not his fault the Patriots like to run a committee.

Let's not go overboard here. He's surely not putting AP on the bench. But I do get your point: he could likely be a 3 down back. You mentioned Vereen's day as a reason to value Gio. But Vereen was playing the Woodhead role because Woodhead was hurt. If that is what Gio offers, he likely won't be a fantasy starter. I wouldn't feel comforable with my NFL team relying on Gio to start and I don't understand or agree with the potential 1st round hype.

Woodhead is 5'8', 195 lbs. He is a trusted pass blocker and route runner. Vereen is bigger and more talented and hasn't been healthy to get practice/game reps to supplant Woodhead.But I'm comparing talent, skill set, running/playing styles, and measurables, not situation. Because we don't even know Bernard's situation yet.He would be a great fit for a passing heavy team that's drafting in the late 1st.

 

[Faust]

NFP Previews The East West Shrine Game

Russ Lande

On Monday, the sports media will turn their entire focus to the Conference Championship Games next weekend, but for nearly every NFL team their focus will be squarely on the beginning of the All Start junket. Today all the invited players should be settled in Tampa, Florida so that on Monday they can go through the first padded practices in preparation for Saturday's East West Shrine Game with over 100 NFL personnel watching every rep of practice closely. Below we give a short synopsis of eight players NFL teams are excited to watch this week.

1. Brandan Bishop, SAF, North Carolina State (6004, 206 and 4.60 E): A smart and instinctive defender who was constantly around the ball making big tackles, we, along with NFL people we have spoken with, want to get a better feel for his quickness and athleticism this week. From film study he is viewed as an adequate athlete, but not a top level one that NFL teams look for in starting safeties. He has a chance this week to prove to NFL teams that he has the foot quickness, agility, burst and speed to have legit range in coverage, which would definitely help his draft stock.

2. Alex Carder, QB, Western Michigan (6016, 224 and 4.80 E): A strong armed and accurate passer, NFL teams are excited to evaluate Carder against top prospects from across the country. Can he stick his back foot in the ground, drive off it and stride into throw to make the quick hitting passes with good timing and accuracy. Additionally, teams want to get a feel for how he handles the uncomfortable situation of adjusting to throwing to new receivers as is proves how quickly a quarterback can adjust to changing circumstances.

3. Marcus Davis, WR, Virginia Tech (6031, 229 and 4.41): A former high school quarterback who made the switch to receiver during redshirt freshmen season, NFL teams are intrigued by his combination of size, explosiveness, speed and toughness. Still learning the nuances of the position, it is clear that he understands what the defense and specifically the cornerback covering him is trying to do, so he can adjust his route accordingly. We, along with many NFL people we have spoken with, want to get a better feel for how natural his hands are to feel more comfortable with him being a third or fourth round pick.

4. Corey Fuller, WR, Virginia Tech (6020, 187 and 4.40): A former track star at Kansas, 2012 was Fuller’s breakout season at Virginia Tech and he definitely has caught the NFL’s attention. Blessed with rare acceleration and top end speed, we have been impressed by Fuller’s route running and look forward to see how he handles the tight coverage that he will face throughout the week of practice. NFL teams also want to figure out if they feel he can add bulk to his frame and can withstand the rigors of playing in the NFL with his slight frame. If he shines this week and at the Combine, I think he could rise up draft boards an enormous amount this spring and could challenge to be a second round pick.

5. Micah Hyde, CB, Iowa (5116, 190 and 4.55 E): Highly productive during his career at Iowa, NFL teams really want to see Hype in coverage this week as he is viewed as one of the most versatile defensive backs amongst the second tier prospects. Naturally instinctive, Hyde consistently reads and reacts to passes in front of him and closes in time to make the tackle after the catch. He does not however have the explosiveness and elite speed that NFL teams prefer at cornerback, which is why he is viewed as a “tweener” between cornerback and safety. He needs to prove this week that he has enough athleticism to cover slot receivers and that he is willing to come up and hit if he wants to assure himself of being drafted as a potential backup cornerback and safety.

6. Collin Klein, QB, Kansas State (6052, 220 and 4.72): While nearly everyone has written off Klein playing quarterback in the NFL, I know more than a few NFL personnel people who definitely view him as a high end developmental quarterback prospect. As I have said all season, putting aside Klein’s bad throwing mechanics, he has many attributes, size, physical strength, arm strength, deep accuracy, athleticism to avoid sacks and outstanding character/intangibles, that starting quarterbacks in the NFL need. A strong week here could lead to a late invitation to the Senior Bowl, which could start a rise up draft boards.

7. Zeke Motta, SAF, Notre Dame (6022, 215 and 4.55 E): Possibly the player scouts are most split on across the country; Motta needs a big week after a disappointing game against Alabama has even his biggest supporters questioning his ability While he no doubt looks the part and is willing to fly up the field and make blow up hits, as he showed against Alabama he gets over aggressive and high at times, which leads to him missing tackles he should easily make. He needs to prove to NFL teams that he has the athleticism to handle the deep coverage in the NFL and that he can be a more consistent tackler if he wants to be drafted before the late rounds.

8. Keith Pough, LB, Howard (6016, 236 and 4.93): One of the most productive small school prospects, Pough has to prove that he has the playing speed to maintain his level of production while making the huge jump up in competition. A smart young man with outstanding character, intangibles and competitiveness, there is little doubt he has the off-field traits to be a star in the NFL. Now he must prove that he has enough physical talent to make the jump to assure himself of being drafted in the first four rounds.

 

[Faust]

NFP'S Top 200 Draft Prospects Version 4.0

 

[EBF]

NFP'S Top 200 Draft Prospects Version 4.0

Having a tough time getting on board with this stuff.For one thing, the fact that they can't even spell Giovani Bernard or Cordarrelle Patterson isn't a good sign. I've been on the Keenan Allen and Quinton Patton trains since before those guys were talked about as great prospects, and yet I think they're both overrated here. Allen just isn't special enough to be a top 10 pick and unless he's a lot bigger and faster than I think he is, Patton would be a slight reach even in the late first.

 

[Faust]

2013 NFL Draft: Under-the-radar underclassmen that could be sleepers

Chris Burke

Upwards of 70 underclassmen have declared for the 2013 NFL Draft. As always, there’s a big range of available talent, from front-of-the-line guys like Jarvis Jones and Damontre Moore to a host of lesser-known players.

There figure to be a few hidden gems in the second group — every draft uncovers at least a couple diamonds in the rough.

So, which of this year’s early entrants could turn into stars down the road? Here’s a look at five underclassmen who may fly under the radar … only to become very productive NFL players:

• Stefphon Jefferson, RB, Nevada: The race is on for teams to find the next Alfred Morris, so what better candidate than a player who had 375 rushing attempts, more than 1,800 yards and 24 touchdowns this season while running out of the pistol formation that’s swept the NFL?

Jefferson has good size — he’s listed at 5-foot-11, 210 pounds, which is what Montee Ball also stands at — and does a nice job squeezing up through holes on the offensive line. He did a lot of his running straight downfield, though he also had success on those stretch plays that are such a staple of the pistol and zone-read offenses.

He won’t scare opposing defenses out of the backfield much (7.7 yards per catch on 22 receptions in 2012), and there are more than a couple pieces of tape showing him whiffing on blitz pickups.

Because Jefferson does not really leap off the screen (he looks fairly stiff at times when he’s running), it’s safe to assume he will slip into the mid-to-late rounds. Right into Alfred Morris territory.

• Corey Lemonier, DE/OLB, Auburn: Lemonier had an impressive 2011 (9.5 sacks) and started 2012 strong, too, with five sacks in his first four games. He had just a half-sack the rest of the season, though, and was even yanked from the Tigers’ starting lineup for the season finale against Alabama.

The question will be: Do NFL teams focus more on his obvious potential or that drop-off?

If they choose the former, they might be happy with what they find. Lemonier played defensive end for Auburn — both with a hand in the dirt and standing up — so he could stay there in a 4-3 or slide to a pass-rushing outside linebacker spot in a 3-4. And the ability to get to the quarterback remains, thanks to Lemonier’s quick jump off the line.

This could be a big draft for the DE/OLB types, with Damontre Moore, Bjoern Werner, Barkevious Mingo, Dion Jordan, Alex Okafor and others potentially going in Round 1. Lemonier figures to be more of a Day 2 prospect, but his numbers might not be that far off the elite talents.

• Josh Boyce, WR, TCU: The 5-11 Boyce turned in a consistently productive three years with the Horned Frogs. He caught 61 and 66 passes, respectively, in his sophomore and junior campaigns, while averaging nearly 15 yards per catch.

That ability to stretch the field will intrigue NFL teams — Boyce had catches of 93 and 94 yards during his TCU career, plus a 61-yarder in a December bowl loss to Michigan State. Boyce also has experience at numerous receiver spots. He played mostly on the outside at TCU, but he did line up in the slot on occasion and may be a more lethal prospect there down the road.

It’s hard to get a read on where exactly Boyce will fall, given the number of WR prospects that could slip into Days 2 and 3 of the draft. His history and upside should get him a mid-round opportunity.



• Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State: Expect to hear a lot about Watson’s story over the next few months. A native of Manchester, England, Watson took a roundabout path to a spot on Marist College’s basketball team. He then switched to football in 2011 and played in junior college, before moving on to Florida State for one season.

As you might expect given that background, Watson is a very raw prospect. But at 6-5 and an athletic 320 pounds, he’s the type of developmental pick that more than one NFL team would love to have, even though Watson already is 25 years old.

He looked absolutely dominant, from time to time, during Florida State’s 2012 season. Given another year to improve at the collegiate level, he might have been a Round 1 or Round 2 prospect. Watson will slip a little lower than that in April, but he could turn into a steal.

• Levine Toilolo, TE, Stanford: Toilolo’s college teammate, Zach Ertz, will be one of the big-money tight ends this year — Ertz could follow in the footsteps of Coby Fleener, who was picked No. 34 overall in 2012 by the Colts. Toilolo ought to be the third Stanford TE taken the past two drafts, likely somewhere late in Day 2 or early in Day 3.

The production is not there for Toilolo, like it is for Ertz — the former caught just 24 balls in 2012, compared to 69 by his teammate. Toilolo also had a very disappointing day in Stanford’s loss to Notre Dame, as he finished without a catch and was pushed around a bit on the line; he also failed to haul in any receptions in the Rose Bowl vs. Wisconsin.

The possible game-changer here, though: size. Toilolo stands 6-8, 265, so he could be a red-zone target from Day One in the NFL. Combine that with clear room to improve elsewhere, and Toilolo will find a home during the draft.

 

[Faust]

Collin Klein among players to watch at East-West Shrine Game

By Bucky Brooks

Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network

The East-West Shrine Game (Saturday, 4 p.m. ET, NFL Network) is a must-see stop on the college all-star circuit because it routinely showcases some of the sleeper prospects with the potential to become difference-makers at the next level.

At last year's event, Alfred Morris put on a week of standout practice performances. Drafted in the sixth round by the Washington Redskins, Morris went on to become one of the top rookie runners in NFL history this season.

Well aware of Morris' ascension, evaluators will closely monitor the talent on display Saturday to see if they can unearth a gem in the 2013 NFL Draft. Given that premise, here are five prospects scouts are closely watching this week:

1) Collin Klein, QB, Kansas State

The Heisman Trophy finalist, with his unorthodox throwing motion and unconventional game, is destined for a position change in the NFL. Scouts are paying close attention to his movement skills and athleticism to see if he has the potential to play tight end or H-Back as a pro.

2) Brandon McGee, CB, Miami

A two-year starter at Miami, McGee is an explosive athlete with the speed and quickness to develop into an effective nickel corner in the NFL. Given the fact that pro defenses are in some form of sub-defense on 70 percent of snaps, scouts throughout the league are here to see if McGee has the tools to develop into a key contributor early in his career.

3) Ray Graham, RB, Pittsburgh

Graham successfully bounced back from a torn anterior cruciate ligament to post the first 1,000-yard season of his career. Though he displayed improved quickness and agility throughout the season, evaluators will want to see if he has fully regained his trademark explosiveness.

4) Theo Riddick, WR/RB, Notre Dame

Riddick is a do-it-all playmaker who can handle any skill position on the field. Scouts want to see if he can thrive as a potential slot receiver in the NFL. If he can put together a strong week of practice, running crisp routes and cleanly snatching the ball in traffic, Riddick can make a strong case that he can excel in a Percy Harvin-type role at the next level.

5) Duke Williams, safety, Nevada

The evolution of the NFL game makes it imperative to have a safety with excellent cover skills in the middle of the field. Williams has toiled in relative anonymity at Nevada, but scouts on the West Coast believe he has the talent to be a star as a pro. If he can show the ball skills, awareness and big-hit ability he's displayed on tape, he could be an intriguing Day 2 prospect on draft day.

 

[EBF]

Oh yeah, and Markus Wheaton as the 187th best prospect is a laugher. I might well be overrating Wheaton, but I can't conceive of him slipping out of the top 90 picks. First team All Pac-12 with 1200 yards and 11 TDs in 13 games. Stands about 6'1" 190. Runs a 10.5 in the 100m and probably a low 4.4 in the 40.Yet he's a 6th rounder? That is really a head scratcher when you look at where Allen and Woods are rated. I have seen all of these guys play many times and if there is any gap between those two and Wheaton, it is razor thin. I actually think he is the best pro prospect of the lot.

 

[Faust]

Luke Joeckel, Damontre Moore top 2013 NFL Draft Big Board

By Bucky Brooks

Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network

Now, that we've reached the Jan. 15 deadline for underclassmen to declare for the 2013 NFL Draft, scouts are working hard to put together draft boards that accurately reflect the available talent in this year's class. Although each team's draft rankings differ slightly based on team needs, schematic fits and height/weight/size preferences, I thought I would unveil my first official Big Board for April's event.

The prospects are graded solely on their talent and my view of their NFL potential, so this list will vary greatly from my Mock Draft because I'm not attempting to connect a player to a specific team need or schematic fit. While these rankings will continue to fluctuate based on performances at college all-star games, the NFL Scouting Combine and pro day workouts, this initial installment serves as a good starting point for the evaluation process leading up to the draft.

If you have an opinion on this list, don't hesitate to hit me up on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.

Without further ado, here are my top 50 draft prospects heading into the college all-star game circuit:

1) Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M: Franchise-caliber left tackle prospect with the athleticism and movement skills to shadow elite rushers on the edge.



2) Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M: Disruptive edge player with exceptional first-step quickness and burst. Moore amassed 12.5 sacks and 21 tackles for a loss during his final season as an Aggie.

3) Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: Explosive pass rusher with freakish athleticism and closing quickness. Jones could be the best player in the draft, but medical concerns could significantly impact his stock prior to draft day.

4) Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Ascending pass-rush prospect with underrated athleticism. Shows the ability to win with speed or power off the edge while also displaying a relentless motor.

5) Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama: Blue-chip interior blocker with the capacity to move defenders off the ball in the running game.

6) Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU: Raw pass rusher with remarkable athleticism and movement skills. Mingo will need some time to develop a solid set of rush moves, but his natural talent and athletic potential are unrivaled at the position.

7) Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama: Milliner is undoubtedly the best cover corner in the class. Great technician with outstanding hands and ball skills.

8) Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: Big-bodied interior defender with a unique combination of size, strength and athleticism. Scouts question his motor, but he is a dominant player when focused.

9) Manti Te'o, LB, Notre Dame: A disappointing performance in the BCS National Championship Game exposed his flaws (limited athleticism and suspect block disruption), but scouts still view him as a solid starter in the middle of a 4-3 defense.

10) Keenan Allen, WR, Cal: Polished pass catcher with all of the tools to blossom as a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. Allen's size and ball skills will make him a tough matchup on the perimeter.

11) Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina: Big interior blocker with the athleticism to play in a power-based or zone scheme.

12) Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri: High-motor, athletic defensive tackle with exceptional lateral quickness and burst.

13) Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan: Athletic edge blocker with fantastic footwork, balance and body control. Not quite a finished product, but has made tremendous progress over the past year. Scouts are highly intrigued by his potential.

14) Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia: Polished pocket passer with blue-chip arm talent. Questions persist about his ability to work through progressions against disguised coverage, but Smith has big-time game. Offensive coordinators will approve of his solid decision making from the pocket.

15) Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU: Montgomery is not an explosive athlete, but he is a relentless edge player capable of dominating against the run or pass.

16) Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee: The former junior-college standout was impressive in a 12-game stint at Tennessee, but scouts will dig deep into the game tape to determine whether Patterson is a legitimate franchise player or a one-year wonder.

17) Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon: Jordan's athleticism and versatility could make him a star in a hybrid defense that incorporates the outside linebacker into the rush and coverage.

18) Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia: Explosive sideline-to-sideline playmaker with the athleticism to stay on the field as a three-down linebacker.

19) Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida: Big-bodied defensive tackle with a relentless motor and sneaky athleticism. Floyd has the capacity to play the one- or three-technique in a 4-3 scheme.

20) Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State: Run-stuffing interior defender with the size, strength and power to control the point of attack.

21) Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU: The comparisons to Jason Pierre-Paul extend beyond his limited football experience and freakish athleticism. Ansah showcases a relentless motor, natural rush skills and a knack for making plays on the ball.

22) Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State: Rhodes is a coveted press corner prospect with the length, athleticism and tenacity to thrive as a shutdown corner in the NFL. If he can also show the capacity to play in zone or off-man, Rhodes' stock could soar up the charts prior to April's draft.

23) Matt Barkley, QB, USC: Barkley isn't the prototypical franchise quarterback based on his arm talent and physical dimensions, but he is an experienced signal-caller with a high football IQ and a thorough understanding of how to run a game from the line of scrimmage. Those traits are significant for offensive coordinators looking for a young quarterback to step in immediately as a starter.



24) John Jenkins, DT, Georgia: A massive run-stuffer with the size, strength and power to thrive as an immovable object in the middle of a defense. Scouts certainly will question Jenkins' character, given that he was declared academically ineligible for the Capital One Bowl, but he can address those concerns in interviews prior to the draft.

25) Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford: Ertz is a big, agile pass catcher with outstanding hands and ball skills. Scouts view him as a more complete tight end prospect than former teammate Coby Fleener, which says a lot about Ertz's immense talent and potential.

26) Matt Elam, S, Florida

27) Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

28) Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame

29) Kevin Minter, LB, LSU

30) Mike Glennon, QB, N.C. State

31) D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama

32) Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas

33) Robert Woods, WR, USC

34) Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State

35) Oday Aboushi, OT, Virginia

36) DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson

37) Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas

38) Eric Reid, S, LSU

39) Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

40) Barrett Jones, C/OG, Alabama

41) Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina

42) Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

43) Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor

44) Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin

45) Khaseem Greene, LB, Rutgers

46) Jesse Williams, NT, Alabama

47) Alex Okafor, DE, Texas

48) Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee

49) Phillip Thomas, S, Fresno State

50) Da'Rick Rogers, WR, Tennessee Tech

 

[Faust]

Luke Joeckel, Bjoern Werner headline 2013 NFL Draft prospects

By Gil Brandt

Senior Analyst

The 2012 playoffs are still in full swing, but the 28 teams no longer playing are already looking to next season and beyond. The 2013 NFL Draft will be here before we know it, bringing an infusion of promising young talent.

With that in mind, I've ranked the 25 best draft-eligible college players, including the underclassmen who are forgoing a senior season for a shot at playing in the NFL.

1) Luke Joeckel, OL, Texas A&M: Joeckel is the same type of player as Jake Long, who was taken with the No. 1 overall pick by the Miami Dolphins in 2008. A junior, Joeckel has great size and athletic ability, as well as really good hand placement.

2) Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Werner is probably the best pass-rushing prospect available in this draft. He really made life rough for opposing quarterbacks, accumulating 13 sacks in his junior season.



3) Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama: The last guard to be taken with a top-10 draft pick was Chris Naeole, selected 10th overall by the New Orleans Saints in 1997. However, guards are becoming more important, and Warmack, who's strong in both pass protection and run blocking, projects as a 15-year player in the NFL.

4) Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: Jones is one of the best 3-4 linebackers available. The junior can rush the passer and drop into space. A neck injury led him to transfer from USC to Georgia, but he's had no apparent issues with his health since.

5) Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: Lotulelei is a run-stopper who reminds me of the Baltimore Ravens' Haloti Ngata. Like a lot of big guys, he doesn't play hard on every snap.

6) Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama: Milliner is the tall cornerback that everybody's looking for. He did a good job for the Crimson Tide in his junior season, and played well in the BCS Championship Game.

7) Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M: Good pass rushers are always wanted, and this junior is one of those. Moore has enough athletic ability to play in space for a team that runs a 3-4 defense.

8) Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU: Mingo is a better athlete than he is a football player right now, but the junior has great athletic skills and a lot of speed. He should be a very good pass rusher, performing well in space.

9) Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia: Ogletree is an athlete who can run. Against Georgia Tech in November, the junior showed what he could do, racking up 15 tackles.

10) Ezekiel Ansah, DE/OLB, BYU: Originally from Ghana, Ansah tried to play basketball, but he couldn't shoot. Eventually, he found his way to the football field. He boasts great athletic ability and the kind of skills that remind me of the New York Giants' Jason Pierre-Paul.

11) Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon: Jordan is another big, tall guy who can rush the passer or drop into space. He has a great deal of upside.

12) Manti Te'o, LB, Notre Dame: Te'o finished his senior season with 113 tackles and seven interceptions (that latter number is unheard of for a linebacker). He did not play well in the BCS Championship Game, but everything he's done in his career at Notre Dame overrides that.

13) Keenan Allen, WR, Cal: Despite not having a real quarterback to throw him the ball, Allen hauled in 61 catches for 737 yards and six touchdowns over just nine games this past fall (missing the final three contest with an injury).



14) Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State: In a draft class heavy on defensive tackles, Hankins is one of the really good ones -- though he needs to be more explosive and improve his pass rushing.

15) John Jenkins, DT, Georgia: A big, wide-bodied defensive tackle, Jenkins moves really well for a guy his size. As a side note, I'd like to point out that Georgia players usually come into the NFL and play better than they did in school.

16) Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU: Montgomery is a very talented guy, a good pass rusher who racked up a team-leading eight sacks with LSU in his junior season.

17) D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama: Fluker is a big and strong offensive tackle. I don't think the underclassman has good enough feet to be a left tackle in the NFL, considering how many pass rushers he'd have to block, but he'll be an outstanding right tackle.

18) Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor: Williams racked up 156 catches for 2,789 yards and 23 touchdowns over his last two seasons at Baylor, and had 32 catches this season of 20 yards or more. That tells you what kind of speed and explosiveness he has.

19) Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri: A junior college transfer who played just two seasons at Missouri, Richardson is extremely athletic and has lots and lots of upside.

20) Alex Okafor, DE, Texas: Okafor possesses the qualities you want in a big pass rusher, and has unbelievable ability to get to the quarterback, recording 4.5 sacks against Oregon State in the Alamo Bowl.

21) Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida: The junior is very strong at the point of attack. Floyd should have a long career in the NFL as an inside pass rusher.

22) Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan: After arriving at Central Michigan as a 240-pound freshman, Fisher now weighs more than 300. The long-armed offensive lineman was a four-year starter with the Chippewas.

23) Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas: The only question about Vaccaro is his speed. He has outstanding competitiveness and is a good ball defender, and I think he'll be fast enough, given his fine recognition skills. He'll be one of the strongest tacklers in the NFL.

24) Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama: In my opinion, Lacy was the best back in college football over the second half of the season. I thought the junior really improved; all you have to do to verify this is look at tape of his performances against Missouri (177 rushing yards, three touchdowns) and Notre Dame (140 rushing yards, two total scores).

25) DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson: Hopkins was an all-state basketball player in South Carolina as a high schooler. The junior has tremendous athletic ability and quickness.

 

[GECKO]

 

[Faust]

NFL.com Mock Drafts:

NFL Mock Draft: Three QBs in first eight picks

NFL Mock Draft: Chiefs take Luke Joeckel at 1

NFL Mock Draft: No quarterbacks in first round

NFL Mock Draft: Cardinals turn to Matt Barkley

NFL Mock Draft: Manti Te'o lands with Bills

NFL Mock Draft: Geno Smith to Chiefs at No. 1

 

[Faust]

Slideshow:

Top 5 2013 NFL Draft offensive prospects by position

 

[Faust]

Video Link:

Daniel Jeremiah's mock draft 1-10

02:09 – Who should be drafted with the top 10 picks in the NFL draft? Bucky Brooks and Daniel Jeremiah break down the players who could be future stars.

 

[TheFanatic]

The odds of any RB taken in the first 3 rounds becoming a starting fantasy option are high. The only question is when and for how long.Regardless, both Bernard and Vereen can be 3 down RB. Situation and injury are the main variables on whether that ever happens, not talent.

I would like to see some historical evidence of how many RBs taken in the first THREE rounds become fantasy starters. And concerning your second statement, situation and injury are important but that doesn't mean I could have success in Minnesota as a RB because ADP, Gerhart,and the 50 guys they pull off the street before me get injured. RB is a skill position, not a luck position.

 

[ZWK]

The odds of any RB taken in the first 3 rounds becoming a starting fantasy option are high. The only question is when and for how long.Regardless, both Bernard and Vereen can be 3 down RB. Situation and injury are the main variables on whether that ever happens, not talent.

I would like to see some historical evidence of how many RBs taken in the first THREE rounds become fantasy starters. And concerning your second statement, situation and injury are important but that doesn't mean I could have success in Minnesota as a RB because ADP, Gerhart,and the 50 guys they pull off the street before me get injured. RB is a skill position, not a luck position.

I've looked at that historical evidence, for players drafted 1993-2006. The percent of RBs in each round who ever had a top 24 fantasy season is:rd 1: 77%rd 2: 47%rd 3: 31%rd 4: 21%rd 5: 13%rd 6: 9%rd 7: 4%

 

[Concept Coop]

Scouts are starting to share their opinions and it is showing up in mock drafts. A few things I am noticingatterson is the top WR in the class, right now, and a likely top 15 pick. Lacy is the top RB in the class, right now, and is likely a 1st round pick.Ertz and Eifert are both likely to go in the 1st round and valued closely. Teams are starting to look for these mismatch guys.Giovani Bernard is not a 1st round pick.On the defensive side:Star is not the top 3 prospect he was thought to be; top 10 still likely. Milliner is a stud and worthy of a top 5 pick. Te'o is slipping big time.Ezekiel Ansah is rising.

 

[pacman_fl]

Thanks for that information CC. I haven't been tracking mock drafts as early this year since I have a habit of letting them affect my personal thoughts. Patterson is someone that I can see scouts and teams falling for.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Scouts are starting to share their opinions and it is showing up in mock drafts. A few things I am noticingatterson is the top WR in the class, right now, and a likely top 15 pick. Lacy is the top RB in the class, right now, and is likely a 1st round pick.Ertz and Eifert are both likely to go in the 1st round and valued closely. Teams are starting to look for these mismatch guys.Giovani Bernard is not a 1st round pick.On the defensive side:Star is not the top 3 prospect he was thought to be; top 10 still likely. Milliner is a stud and worthy of a top 5 pick. Te'o is slipping big time.Ezekiel Ansah is rising.

The danger is a lot of them simply copy each other and one guy's mock up ends up circulating as 100 others'. Not a lot of independent thinking going on within that crowd.

 

[Concept Coop]

The danger is a lot of them simply copy each other and one guy's mock up ends up circulating as 100 others'. Not a lot of independent thinking going on within that crowd.

I am not talking about the "mock draft community" like Walter,Countdown etcetera. I am talking about plugged in guys who are releasing their first mocks right now. People laugh at Kiper every year because the year round mock sites circulate the same information, so we think we have an idea of where guys should go. But Kiper is as plugged in as anyone and his final mock is usually pretty close. The people laughing at him are doing so based on the mock drafts of peolpe who will eventually copy Kiper. Here is one from Breer, and he claims this is simly based on scouts and team contact information he has gotten, not his opinion. http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013/mock-drafts/albert-breer/155117"As I did last year, I'll assemble my mock drafts based not on my own opinion, but on the opinions of people positioned squarely in the NFL trenches of talent evaluation. And so here we are, rolling out Mock 1.0 before the 2012 season is even complete.Maybe the most interesting thing is that, after talking/emailing/texting with a handful of NFL executives and scouts before filing the final version of this mock, I had to remove all quarterbacks from the first round. My gut feeling is that someone, through this long process, will get pushed up. That always seems to happen, once coaches and higher-level folks get their hands on the board. But the fact is that no one I communicated with this morning thought there was a quarterback worthy of going on Day 1. As one AFC exec said, "There's a very good chance none go (in the first round). I don't know who the top one is -- total crapshoot. Geno (Smith)? (Matt) Barkley? (Mike) Glennon? (Landry) Jones? It's a toss-up."That'll be part of the intrigue of the 2013 NFL Draft process: watching to see if clubs can resist the urge to reach at the game's most important position, maintaining the discipline to stick to what their scouts and college directors are telling them. And what are those guys telling them now? Maybe that things should go down a little like this ... "

 

[MAC_32]

^^^FWIW, the draft guys I follow on twitter have been saying what Kiper just said for weeks. I think the draftnik groupthink ship of the past may be sailing away, more of them seem more clued into what decision maker's may be thinking than before.

 

[Concept Coop]

Just a funny story:A few years ago Kiper projected Philip Merling in the top half of the 1st round out of nowhere. Draft Countdown had previously released a 2 round mock draft and Merling was not included. The forum there was calling Kiper crazy, suggesting Merling is a 3rd round pick. The very next mock draft put out by the site had Merling around 17 or so. I don't have the exact dates, but I know Draft Countdown doesn't release a 2 round mock until pretty late in the process, at which point the update pretty often. So it was pretty "out of nowhere" for him to decide he liked Merling that much. Again, I just find the Kiper blasters funny.

 

[lbouchard]

Just a funny story:A few years ago Kiper projected Philip Merling in the top half of the 1st round out of nowhere. Draft Countdown had previously released a 2 round mock draft and Merling was not included. The forum there was calling Kiper crazy, suggesting Merling is a 3rd round pick. The very next mock draft put out by the site had Merling around 17 or so. I don't have the exact dates, but I know Draft Countdown doesn't release a 2 round mock until pretty late in the process, at which point the update pretty often. So it was pretty "out of nowhere" for him to decide he liked Merling that much. Again, I just find the Kiper blasters funny.

Where did he end up going? IIRC, it was high in the 2nd- I want to say 2.03?

 

[EBF]

Draft Countdown is one of the worst of the major draft sites. The guy who runs it basically doesn't know what he's talking about. I don't hold his opinions or evaluations in high regard. There are some internet draft gurus who generally have decent info. Lande. Pauline. Rob Rang and the other guys at NFL Draft Scout. I wouldn't take their stuff as gospel, but they're generally in touch with reality.

 

[Concept Coop]

Just a funny story:A few years ago Kiper projected Philip Merling in the top half of the 1st round out of nowhere. Draft Countdown had previously released a 2 round mock draft and Merling was not included. The forum there was calling Kiper crazy, suggesting Merling is a 3rd round pick. The very next mock draft put out by the site had Merling around 17 or so. I don't have the exact dates, but I know Draft Countdown doesn't release a 2 round mock until pretty late in the process, at which point the update pretty often. So it was pretty "out of nowhere" for him to decide he liked Merling that much. Again, I just find the Kiper blasters funny.

Where did he end up going? IIRC, it was high in the 2nd- I want to say 2.03?

I think he was the first pick in the 2nd round.

 

[Concept Coop]

Draft Countdown is one of the worst of the major draft sites. The guy who runs it basically doesn't know what he's talking about. I don't hold his opinions or evaluations in high regard. There are some internet draft gurus who generally have decent info. Lande. Pauline. Rob Rang and the other guys at NFL Draft Scout. I wouldn't take their stuff as gospel, but they're generally in touch with reality.

I have to agree with you. I hate to say it, because the guy is obviously passionate and doing his best, better than I could ever do. But really - I want a "plugged in" opinion. I could care less about what Kiper thinks on a prospect, for the most part; I like his data because I know the people making decisions provide him with information. When a guy "comes out of nowhere" on his rankings, I know he got information form the source.

 

[JohnnyU]

Draft Countdown is one of the worst of the major draft sites. The guy who runs it basically doesn't know what he's talking about. I don't hold his opinions or evaluations in high regard. There are some internet draft gurus who generally have decent info. Lande. Pauline. Rob Rang and the other guys at NFL Draft Scout. I wouldn't take their stuff as gospel, but they're generally in touch with reality.

Not to mention that Draft Countdown is very poor in listing who's actually coming out in the current draft. They tend to ignore most underclassman. You're right, that site is mediocre.

 

[MAC_32]

Draft Countdown is Scott Wright, yes?

 

[Concept Coop]

Draft Countdown is Scott Wright, yes?

Yes.

 

[ConnSKINS26]

No idea how out of all people, Scott Wright got into Madden.

 

[MAC_32]

Draft Countdown is Scott Wright, yes?

Yes.

Haven't read him in years, but my takeaway was the same as yours the last time I took a peak. Probably 2008, maybe 09. He tries, but effort only takes you so far.

 

[Concept Coop]

Haven't read him in years, but my takeaway was the same as yours the last time I took a peak. Probably 2008, maybe 09. He tries, but effort only takes you so far.

I think he does a better job than I could and I do respect his opinion. I just think his site is what it is: thoughts by a passionate amateur without the recourses to compete with the Kiper-level pundits.It's more his followers who are funny than him; he fully respects Kiper and gives him plenty of credit. His followers take themselves a little too seriously and mock guys like Kiper.

 

[Christo]

Kolb and Foles were both day 2 picks, iirc he has been linked to other day 2 QB's too. When Reid is not in love with a rookie QB he tends to bargain shop later. Yeah, if he stays put it's for Geno, but I think it's very reasonable he trades out if he doesn't and while a flawed prospect there's going to be at least a few teams that fall in love with Geno so there will be a trade down market.

Kolb was an early second round pick and Foles was a third round pick.

 

[BigTex]

The danger is a lot of them simply copy each other and one guy's mock up ends up circulating as 100 others'. Not a lot of independent thinking going on within that crowd.

I am not talking about the "mock draft community" like Walter,Countdown etcetera. I am talking about plugged in guys who are releasing their first mocks right now. People laugh at Kiper every year because the year round mock sites circulate the same information, so we think we have an idea of where guys should go. But Kiper is as plugged in as anyone and his final mock is usually pretty close. The people laughing at him are doing so based on the mock drafts of peolpe who will eventually copy Kiper. Here is one from Breer, and he claims this is simly based on scouts and team contact information he has gotten, not his opinion.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013/mock-drafts/albert-breer/155117

"As I did last year, I'll assemble my mock drafts based not on my own opinion, but on the opinions of people positioned squarely in the NFL trenches of talent evaluation. And so here we are, rolling out Mock 1.0 before the 2012 season is even complete.

Maybe the most interesting thing is that, after talking/emailing/texting with a handful of NFL executives and scouts before filing the final version of this mock, I had to remove all quarterbacks from the first round. My gut feeling is that someone, through this long process, will get pushed up. That always seems to happen, once coaches and higher-level folks get their hands on the board. But the fact is that no one I communicated with this morning thought there was a quarterback worthy of going on Day 1. As one AFC exec said, "There's a very good chance none go (in the first round). I don't know who the top one is -- total crapshoot. Geno (Smith)? (Matt) Barkley? (Mike) Glennon? (Landry) Jones? It's a toss-up."

That'll be part of the intrigue of the 2013 NFL Draft process: watching to see if clubs can resist the urge to reach at the game's most important position, maintaining the discipline to stick to what their scouts and college directors are telling them. And what are those guys telling them now? Maybe that things should go down a little like this ... "

I could be wrong here but I remember a site that graded the dratniks throughout the years by keeping track of their mocks and Kiper wasn't in the top 10. I want to say he was in the 30's somewhere but I may be wrong. I also remember someone actually going back and looking at all of his #1 picks and saying how they (draft picks) were sure fire studs and the ended up being duds.Honestly, everyone claims to have a connection or two but it's all a crapshoot. Some odds are better than others..........

:twocents:

Tex

 

[Time Kibitzer]

The danger is a lot of them simply copy each other and one guy's mock up ends up circulating as 100 others'. Not a lot of independent thinking going on within that crowd.

I am not talking about the "mock draft community" like Walter,Countdown etcetera. I am talking about plugged in guys who are releasing their first mocks right now. People laugh at Kiper every year because the year round mock sites circulate the same information, so we think we have an idea of where guys should go. But Kiper is as plugged in as anyone and his final mock is usually pretty close. The people laughing at him are doing so based on the mock drafts of peolpe who will eventually copy Kiper. Here is one from Breer, and he claims this is simly based on scouts and team contact information he has gotten, not his opinion.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013/mock-drafts/albert-breer/155117

"As I did last year, I'll assemble my mock drafts based not on my own opinion, but on the opinions of people positioned squarely in the NFL trenches of talent evaluation. And so here we are, rolling out Mock 1.0 before the 2012 season is even complete.

Maybe the most interesting thing is that, after talking/emailing/texting with a handful of NFL executives and scouts before filing the final version of this mock, I had to remove all quarterbacks from the first round. My gut feeling is that someone, through this long process, will get pushed up. That always seems to happen, once coaches and higher-level folks get their hands on the board. But the fact is that no one I communicated with this morning thought there was a quarterback worthy of going on Day 1. As one AFC exec said, "There's a very good chance none go (in the first round). I don't know who the top one is -- total crapshoot. Geno (Smith)? (Matt) Barkley? (Mike) Glennon? (Landry) Jones? It's a toss-up."

That'll be part of the intrigue of the 2013 NFL Draft process: watching to see if clubs can resist the urge to reach at the game's most important position, maintaining the discipline to stick to what their scouts and college directors are telling them. And what are those guys telling them now? Maybe that things should go down a little like this ... "

I could be wrong here but I remember a site that graded the dratniks throughout the years by keeping track of their mocks and Kiper wasn't in the top 10. I want to say he was in the 30's somewhere but I may be wrong. I also remember someone actually going back and looking at all of his #1 picks and saying how they (draft picks) were sure fire studs and the ended up being duds.Honestly, everyone claims to have a connection or two but it's all a crapshoot. Some odds are better than others..........

:twocents:

Tex

He actually ranks 4th out of 32 draft experts according to this website in a 5 year average calculation.

 

[Faust]

I would also be careful about anyone who bases their mock draft heavily from "team sources" right now and leading up to the draft, as misinformation and smokescreens are what those sources float out around this time of the year.Rick Gosselin's final mock often was one of the more accurate ones out there.

 

[Faust]

Collin Klein dead set on continuing to play quarterback in NFL

By Bucky Brooks

Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network

TAMPA, Fla. -- Don't expect Kansas State quarterback Collin Klein to embrace a move to another position in the NFL.

"I know I'm a quarterback," the highly decorated playmaker emphatically told me during an interview for an upcoming episode of the NFL Draft Tracker podcast, adding that he wants to prove he can play the position in the NFL. He said he loves the "mental strategy and challenges" of being a quarterback, and that his "heart" is in doing so as a pro.

On Tuesday, I wrote that the East-West Shrine Game offered a prime opportunity for the Kansas State product, who has an unconventional throwing motion, to show NFL scouts he has what it takes to play at a different spot, like tight end or H-back. However, it appears the Heisman finalist has no interest in making such a switch.

These comments should raise red flags for NFL teams thinking of Klein in another role and end some of the speculation that he would consider being anything but a quarterback.

Other players, meanwhile, are making an impression on evaluators during the first few practice sessions leading up to Saturday's game. Based on conversations with NFL scouts on the sideline, here's a list of some guys earning solid reviews for their performances early on:

1) Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M

The explosive running back has been the buzz of NFL scouting circles after displaying an impressive combination of speed, quickness and power. He has wowed scouts with his stop-start quickness, and shows more wiggle than most expected from a stocky workhorse runner. Some evaluators have expressed concern about character issues during his final season as an Aggie, but Michael's on-field work has earned him a reprieve in the minds of many scouts.

2) Gerald Hodges, LB, Penn State

After dominating team drills and nine-on-seven sessions for the past two days, Hodges has been the talk of the town. Scouts have raved about his instincts, awareness and lateral quickness while also praising his fundamentally sound game. Most scouts I talked to had already expected him to be one of the game's top performers, but he has been more impressive in drills than many evaluators anticipated, certainly sending his stock soaring on draft boards across the league.

3) Sio Moore, LB, Connecticut

Moore has been repeatedly cited as one of the most impressive players here. He shows a dazzling array of skills (in terms of rushing and run-and-chase ability), while playing with a relentlessness that will produce a ton of plays at the next level. In addition, scouts have raved about his size (6-foot-2, 244 pounds), physique and impeccable physical conditioning. Several NFL teams are searching for linebackers who can impact the game in a variety of ways, and Moore is certain to rise up the charts following his performance this week.

4) Brandon McGee, CB, Miami

On Tuesday, I called McGee one of the guys to watch this week, and he certainly has not disappointed. Scouts already thought McGee would be one of the best athletes on the field, based on his size, speed and movement skills; he has exceeded those expectations, showing excellent ball skills and awareness in coverage. This is particularly impressive when factoring in his lack of experience playing zone or off-man coverage at Miami. If McGee continues to show he can play in any scheme, he could rise dramatically up the charts heading into the draft.

5) Devin Taylor, DE, South Carolina

Taylor was overshadowed by the ultra-talented Jadeveon Clowney at South Carolina, but he definitely has opened some eyes with his play here. He has the size (6-8, 267) that scouts covet in edge players, and he shows enough athleticism to develop into a credible pass rusher at the next level. Although his game remains a work in progress, Taylor's physical dimensions and athleticism have scouts furiously scribbling notes about his potential as a pass rusher.

 

[pacman_fl]

Collin Klein dead set on continuing to play quarterback in NFL

By Bucky Brooks

Analyst, NFL.com and NFL Network

1) Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M

The explosive running back has been the buzz of NFL scouting circles after displaying an impressive combination of speed, quickness and power. He has wowed scouts with his stop-start quickness, and shows more wiggle than most expected from a stocky workhorse runner. Some evaluators have expressed concern about character issues during his final season as an Aggie, but Michael's on-field work has earned him a reprieve in the minds of many scouts.

- **homer alert** - I really like Michael and think he may FINALLY be getting back from the knee injury to end his junior year. The news about him having trouble blocking (posted earlier) doesn't surprise me and he is likely only a 2 down guy now. Question for him will be attitude and accepting both coaching and a reduced (if any) role in the NFL. Side note - between him, Graham, Kniles and Lattimore, there was quite a bit of lost money on knee injuries. I am curious to see how they all check out medically.

 

[ConnSKINS26]

I believe Knile was an ankle injury, but your point stands.

 

[Faust]

2013 Shrine Game: Practice Risers

By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

January 17, 2013 6:47 pm ET

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Although the 88th annual East-West Shrine Game won't be played until Saturday, most of the NFL scouts and coaches have already left St. Petersburg, having watched and scouted a full week of practice.

While it's important for the players to finish strong in the game, the daily practices this week were when prospects had the chance to make their money and stand out to the hundreds of scouts, coaches and NFL representatives on the sidelines and in the bleachers.

With small school NFL Draft prospects, the “lack of competition” mantra can be tough to dispel for some, but a productive week during pre-draft all-star games goes a long way in the minds of pro scouts. Playing alongside former 5-star recruits and prospects from powerhouse programs allows players from non-FBS teams to prove they belong on the same field as the best-of-the-best. And during practice this past week, several underrated small school prospects did just that.

Below are 10 prospects who helped themselves during the week of Shrine Game practices, five of which are from non-FBS programs:

10. TE D.C. Jefferson, Rutgers (6056, 255 -- East Team)

A former quarterback, Jefferson didn't show the expected progression at tight end throughout his Rutgers career (only 47 catches in 50 career collegiate games), but the raw skills are intriguing. And he flashed his talented skill-set during practices, showing off his large, athletic frame and proving to be an imposing target downfield and a physical blocker. Jefferson is still unpolished in several areas, but he showed this week why he's an interesting developmental player and worth a draft pick on the draft's third day.

9. OLB Sio Moore, Connecticut (6006, 240 -- East Team)

Moore entered the week as an underrated prospect, but he showed during practice sessions what most already knew: He's a pretty good football player. He was a versatile performer in college with good production as a hybrid linebacker for the Huskies, not looking out of place when asked to play in space against either the run or pass. Even in non-contact drills, Moore's competitive drive and explosive hitting ability were evident, and he will likely earn a top-100 grade from more than a few NFL teams.

8. RB Christine Michael, Texas A&M (5096, 221 -- West Team)

Thought to be the top running back prospect by some entering the 2012 season, Michael was nothing more than a reserve during his senior year after finding himself in Kevin Sumlin's doghouse. But during West practices, he reminded scouts why he was so highly regarded with his combination of quickness, burst and power. Although he didn't help his case by posing after a few productive runs in practice, Michael proved that he has the talent to warrant a second day selection.

7. DE David Bass, Missouri Western State (6036, 263 -- East Team)

Bass dominated the Division-II ranks, bringing a productive resume to the NFL with 56 tackles for loss and 39.5 sacks over his career. And playing next to FBS-prospects in St. Pete's, he didn't look out of place with the quickness and hand strength to defeat blocks and find his way to the ballcarrier. Bass has room to refine his pass rush moves to be more effective, but he flashed in practice why he was able to be so productive in college.

6. S Earl Wolff, NC State (5111, 206 -- East Team)

Playing in a secondary with David Amerson and Brandon Bishop at NC State, Wolff seemed to be overlooked by many, but for those who watched the East practice, it was tough to ignore the impact he made on the field. He showed good plant-and-drive quickness to diagnose the play and attack ballcarriers in front of him. Wolff also displayed the athleticism and footwork to hold up in man coverage, lining up in the slot and gaining proper body position to knock down passes.

5. CB Brandon McGee, Miami (Fla.) (5016, 195 -- East Team)

After a very up-and-down senior season for the Hurricanes, McGee is going to force many talent evaluators who saw him this week to go back and watch more tape of the Miami cornerback. In individual match-ups, he stayed patient and disciplined in his stance with the confidence and footwork to stick with the receiver all over the field. Previously thought to be a late-round prospect, McGee was definitely one of the bright spots of the week and has gained some momentum heading into the NFL Combine.

4. S Cooper Taylor, Richmond (6042, 229 -- East Team)

A Georgia Tech transfer, Taylor stood out as the most impressive defender on the East squad during practice. With his size and strength, he is an enforcer against the run but he also showed the range and athleticism to be effective in coverage as well as the football intelligence to digest a lot of coaching all at once. Taylor routinely drew praise from the coaching staff during drills and often made the calls to get his teammates in proper position. His NFL draft arrow is pointing up after this week, creating some buzz among scouts.

3. WR Jasper Collins, Mount Union (5101, 183 -- West Team)

Considering he is the only Division-III prospect participating this week, it was even more impressive that Collins was the most polished route runner and consistent receiver on the roster. He isn't the biggest or the fastest, but he displayed excellent footwork and short-area quickness to set up his routes, keep defenders off balance and create separation to give the quarterback an open target. Coming from the same program that produced NFL starting receivers Pierre Garcon and Cecil Shorts, Collins is used to expectations, and he passed this week with flying colors.

2. OT Terron Armstead, Arkansas-Pine Bluff (6050, 304 -- East Team)

While the quarterbacks haven't been impressive, either, the offensive line group might be the weakest unit at this year's Shrine Game. But Armstead played better than expected at left tackle with the feet and athleticism to hold up against edge rushers, using his wingspan (81 1/2”) to corral defenders. He doesn't have elite upper or lower body strength for the position, but he didn't make many mistakes in practice and looked comfortable with whatever was thrown at him. Believed to be a solid third-day selection entering the week, Armstead's draft stock is on the rise.

1. OLB Keith Pough, Howard (6016, 241 -- West Team)

With his performance on the practice field this week and through talking to NFL scouts, putting Pough at No. 1 was the easiest decision on this list. He showed off his natural athleticism and coordination during drills, and while he has room to get stronger, his aggressive and violent playing style was impressive. Pough's physical attributes stand out, but so does his approach to the game. He brings a non-stop motor and competitive attitude to the defense, regardless if it's practice or a game. Although he's still a tad rough around the edges, Pough is a player on the rise and it wouldn't be a shock if he ends up as one of the first players drafted from this year's Shrine Game.

 

[Xue]

I am all but off the Gio Bernard bandwagon. I have heard the McCoy comparisons, but I don't see it. McCoy is a lot tougher than he is given credit for. I see more Ronnie Hillman when I watch Bernard and I was never a big Hillman guy. If the NFL invests a top pick in him, I'll likely trust them and come around. But right now, I don't really see it.

Agreed, I don't see anything "special" to his game. Only reason he's getting publicity is because it's a down RB class.

You guys don't see Bernard breaking tackles and making guys miss? He's got quite the stiff-arm. It may be a down RB class, but Bernard is deserving of being #1 RB on many people's boards. I'd much rather question Keenan Allen being the #1 WR.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqYpVoF5Ql00:10 stiff arms two defenders1:08 the defender has him with two arms and he breaks the tackle like nothing1:14 makes two guys miss1:37 cuts it back where you can't even see the hole except Bernard does1:53 eludes two defenders and turns the corner1:58 cuts it back, making #6 CB miss and gains additional 9-10 yards2:42 cuts it back, breaks two tackles for TD2:51 breaks a tackle by a lineman on a screen pass, makes another defender miss in open field3:12 spin move to break a tackle, stiff arm to break another tackle3:26 catches a pass and immediately hit by defender, but doesn't even phase him, spins off him and stiff arms another for a TD3:40 breaks two tackles at first level, stiff arms another in open field

 

[tdmills]

I am all but off the Gio Bernard bandwagon. I have heard the McCoy comparisons, but I don't see it. McCoy is a lot tougher than he is given credit for. I see more Ronnie Hillman when I watch Bernard and I was never a big Hillman guy. If the NFL invests a top pick in him, I'll likely trust them and come around. But right now, I don't really see it.

Agreed, I don't see anything "special" to his game. Only reason he's getting publicity is because it's a down RB class.

You guys don't see Bernard breaking tackles and making guys miss? He's got quite the stiff-arm. It may be a down RB class, but Bernard is deserving of being #1 RB on many people's boards. I'd much rather question Keenan Allen being the #1 WR.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqYpVoF5Ql00:10 stiff arms two defenders1:08 the defender has him with two arms and he breaks the tackle like nothing1:14 makes two guys miss1:37 cuts it back where you can't even see the hole except Bernard does1:53 eludes two defenders and turns the corner1:58 cuts it back, making #6 CB miss and gains additional 9-10 yards2:42 cuts it back, breaks two tackles for TD2:51 breaks a tackle by a lineman on a screen pass, makes another defender miss in open field3:12 spin move to break a tackle, stiff arm to break another tackle3:26 catches a pass and immediately hit by defender, but doesn't even phase him, spins off him and stiff arms another for a TD3:40 breaks two tackles at first level, stiff arms another in open field

I don't make judgments without evaluating multiple games from a prospect. Not being "special" doesn't mean Bernard cannot break tackles. Of course he can, which why he's in the discussion for top RB on some people's boards.The NFL is a much different game than College. Much bigger/stronger/faster athletes roaming around. I don't see Bernard generating the same amount of success at the next level. Bernard isn't a burner, he isn't really strong. He excels by using his vision, agility, and quickness. He's just not "special" enough or a difference maker(if that's a better description) to offset the fact of his speed/strength/size and medical concerns.To be honest, Bernard is my #2 RB right now, but I only see 5 RB prospects worth discussing out of this class(which is pretty low) in terms of FF.

 

[Concept Coop]

You guys don't see Bernard breaking tackles and making guys miss? He's got quite the stiff-arm. It may be a down RB class, but Bernard is deserving of being #1 RB on many people's boards. I'd much rather question Keenan Allen being the #1 WR.

His best plays are great. It's everything else that makes me think he is a future COP back. Isaiah Pead had great highlights too. I could be wrong and don't have a great feel for him, but I personally just don't get the 1st round talk. But, to be honest, I would have said the same think about Chris Johnson and he repaid the Titans on their investment.

2:51 breaks a tackle by a lineman on a screen pass, makes another defender miss in open field

Define "break".

 

[Xue]

You guys don't see Bernard breaking tackles and making guys miss? He's got quite the stiff-arm. It may be a down RB class, but Bernard is deserving of being #1 RB on many people's boards. I'd much rather question Keenan Allen being the #1 WR.

His best plays are great. It's everything else that makes me think he is a future COP back. Isaiah Pead had great highlights too. I could be wrong and don't have a great feel for him, but I personally just don't get the 1st round talk. But, to be honest, I would have said the same think about Chris Johnson and he repaid the Titans on their investment.

2:51 breaks a tackle by a lineman on a screen pass, makes another defender miss in open field

Define "break".

Yea and Ray Rice had great highlights, but if you look at everything else he looked ordinary in college. Here is a full Rutgers vs WVU game from 2007 and see for yourself:
.Fact is, most RB's look ordinary outside of highlights, unless you're the Peterson's or Charles' of the world.Bernard stiff-armed that lineman and "broke" a tackle.