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DYNASTY: Top 2013 College Prospects (1 Viewer)

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Scout-Talk-7808.html

Scout Talk

Some NFL front office men think the first round may pass without a running back being picked

Dan Pompei

It has been 50 years since the NFL has gone through the first round of a draft without a running back being selected. And some front office men suspect a back will not go in round one this year for the first time since John F. Kennedy was president.

The draft has changed quite a bit in 50 years. In 1963, there were only 14 first round picks, and only five running backs taken in the entire draft.

This year, many backs, probably near 20, will be chosen. But teams will be looking for them in the second round and beyond.

You may suspect the reason for this is the success of players like Alfred Morris and Arian Foster, who were not high round picks. It’s true teams don’t need to take a running back in the first round to get a capable runner. But it’s also true this crop of running backs is short on top end talent.

“We all understand you can win with running backs who are not unbelievably talented,” one NFC general manager said. “But if there is a back who can make a difference, people will go get him in the first.”

Multiple scouts said Alabama’s Eddie Lacy is the only first round possibility, and he has borderline first round/second round grades. “He is good,” an AFC scouting director said. “I don’t know if he’s great.” Added a national scout, “He’s getting a half round to a full round bump because of Nick Saban. He’s not special.”

One front office man said Lacy ran a 4.48 40 yard dash at 231 pounds. That is pretty special. But some scouts think his tape isn’t as special. They question his athleticism and ability to avoid.

After Lacy, the class thins out quickly. There isn’t much of a consensus, at least not at this point, on who the No. 2 back should be. Some like Le’Veon Bell of Michigan State. Some prefer Montee Ball of Wisconsin. Others go for Giovani Bernard of North Carolina. There is something to like about all of them.

And there is something to like about others, like Joseph Randle of Oklahoma State, Andre Ellington of Clemson, Christine Michael of Texas A&M, Stepfan Taylor of Stanford and Michael Gillislee of Florida. All could be solid NFL backs. But there is not enough to like about any of them to say they should be slam dunk first rounders.

What’s interesting about this class is there are a number of good potential power runners (Lacy, Bell, Ball, Taylor, Michael and others), and a number of good potential open field runners (Ellington, Bernard, Gillislee, Onterrio McCalebb of Oregon and others). But scouts say there aren’t many who combine the ability to bang between the tackles with the ability make moves outside the tackles.

That’s the real reason the NFL may be looking at a first round without a running back.
 
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http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/big-board

Big Board: Some top prospects have last chance to impress scouts

by Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

Three months removed from the last meaningful college football game, and NFL scouts are trying to avoid overanalyzing pro-day workouts and nitpicking players' character grades.

There are, however, a few important pro days remaining. Two of the more intriguing skill-position prospects -- Cal wideout Keenan Allen and Alabama running back Eddie Lacy, for example -- are hoping to ease concerns about their health and speed during personalized workouts for scouts next week. In the weeks leading up to the draft, hyperbole is easy to come by, but make no mistake, millions of dollars could be on the line for each athlete.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or the selection order. It is simply a ranking of the 100 best draft-eligible prospects for the 2013 NFL draft before we get consumed by the annual data overload from player workouts.

Underclassmen are denoted with an asterisk (*).

1. * Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M: Having earned all-conference recognition all three years of his career, including first-team all-SEC honors and winning the Outland Trophy in 2012, the baby-faced Joeckel is already a proven star who is just going to get better as he grows into his frame. Before blasting Joeckel too much for running the 40-yard dash in 5.30 seconds, recall that the last offensive tackle to be drafted No. 1 overall, Jake Long, was timed at 5.22 seconds.

2. Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan: While impressive against Michigan State and Iowa in 2012, scouts had some reservations about Fisher until a dominating performance against top competition at the Senior Bowl and he followed that up with a stellar performance in Indianapolis. Possessing the foot quickness, balance and length to be a "blindside" pass protector, it isn't out of the question to think the more physically mature Fisher could overtake Joeckel as the top tackle on some boards.

3. Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama: Warmack didn't do much at the combine or Alabama's first pro day but frankly, he didn't have to; he ranks among the safest prospects in the draft. Warmack possesses explosive functional power as a drive blocker and has the quick feet and balance to provide stellar pass protection, as well.

4. *Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida: With so many talented defensive linemen playing in the SEC, Floyd didn't generate the buzz that his skills warranted until recently. Used predominately at defensive end a season ago, the 6-3, 303-pound junior was moved back inside to his more natural defensive tackle position this year and stepped up his play, earning first-team all-conference honors with 46 tackles, including a team-high 13 tackles for loss. While his Gators lost the Sugar Bowl to Teddy Bridgewater and Louisville, Floyd was dynamic, sacking the mobile sophomore quarterback twice and showing scouts flashes of untapped potential.

5. * Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama: Milliner emphatically put to bed any concerns about his straight-line speed in 4.37 seconds at the combine, answering the only question scouts had about his game. Tough, physical and possessing prototypical size (6-0, 201) for the position, Milliner is the elite pass defender in this draft and a legitimate top five candidate, though he must prove his health after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum.

6. Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU: Having played football for only three years -- and starting only one season -- the native of Ghana is as raw as it gets. Ansah is also as physically blessed as any prospect in the 2013 draft, demonstrating remarkable straight-line speed (4.63 in the 40-yard dash) and fluidity (4.26 seconds in the short shuttle), considering his 6-5, 271-pound frame. Proving athletic enough to handle converting to outside linebacker or staying at defensive end, Ansah could earn top-five consideration if teams are convinced he's committed to the game.

7. Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina: More athletic than Chance Warmack and proved considerably stronger in Indianapolis than many had given him credit for (35 reps), Cooper is a legitimate top-20 candidate, whose value is only increased by the fact that he can play center, as well.

8. Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma: Having seen action at QB, DE and TE during his time at Kilgore Junior College (Texas), Johnson had already proven his athleticism. The 6-6, 303-pounder showed just how athletic he is at the combine, clocking in at 4.72 seconds in the 40-yard dash and registering a 34-inch vertical jump. With only two years at tackle, including one on the blindside, Johnson isn't as polished as Joeckel or Fisher, but could possess an even higher upside.

9. * Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri: Measuring in slightly smaller than expected at 6-3, 294 pounds, Richardson slipped down my board slightly but remains one of the more intriguing defensive tackles in the 2013 class. He's the only defensive tackle I saw all year long hold up to the awesome Alabama interior offensive line, recording a game-high 14 tackles in that contest. He finished 2012 only four tackles behind linebacker Andrew Wilson as Missouri's leading tackler with 75 stops, leading all SEC interior defensive linemen in this category.

10. * Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee: Of this year's skill-position players, Patterson presents the most "wow" factor. In his first season at the FBS level, Patterson (6-2, 217) dominated the SEC to the tune of 154.83 all-purpose yards a game, easily the most of any player in the power conference. There remain concerns, however, about his work ethic and ability to handle a complicated NFL offense.

11. * Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Blessed with a quick first step, heavy hands and surprising instincts given the fact that the German native has played only five years of American football, Werner (6-3, 266) is the surest of this year's talented defensive-line class. He does not possess Ansah's upside but is currently a more polished and productive player, having earned the ACC's Defensive Player of the Year award in 2012 with 18 tackles for loss, including 13 sacks.

12. * Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: Scouts are left to question how much of Jones' statistics were inflated by scheme after a less than impressive pro-day workout. Jones might slip on draft day but could prove a steal if he falls out of the top half, just as Terrell Suggs did after a poor workout at Arizona State in 2003.

13. Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington: While lacking the size and physicality of Millner or Xavier Rhodes, the 6-0, 190-pound Trufant showcased a blend of speed and fluidity in Mobile to rank as arguably this year's top cover corner. If the last name sounds familiar, it should. Both of his older brothers -- Marcus and Isaiah -- are already cashing NFL paychecks as cornerbacks with the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets, respectively. Desmond, in fact, matched Marcus' time in the 40-yard dash, clocking in at 4.38 seconds to solidify his first-round stock.

14. Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia: Some questioned if West Virginia's spread offense made Austin look faster than he really was, but in clocking in at 4.34 seconds in the 40-yard dash in Indianapolis, he provided numerical proof of his game-breaking ability. Some will peg Austin as strictly a slot receiver at 5-9, 174 pounds. I see him as a matchup nightmare capable of lining up at receiver, running back or returner.

15. * Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State: Despite the 6-2, 210-pound corner wowing during measured drills at the combine, Rhodes left Indianapolis slipping down some NFL boards after a less than impressive showing during the positional workout and in interviews.

16. * Keenan Allen, WR, California: Scouts are anxious to see what kind of speed the 6-2, 206-pound Allen possesses when he (finally) runs during an individual pro-day workout scheduled for April 9. The biggest question on Allen is whether he possesses the straight-line speed to warrant a first-round selection. The junior wasn't able to work out at the combine or Cal's pro day due to a PCL sprain in his left knee.

17. Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia: Smith possesses all of the physical traits scouts are looking for at the quarterback position, as well as the work ethic to build upon them. He also improved his completion percentage and touchdown/interception ratio in each of his three starting seasons, culminating in a senior campaign in which he completed a sparkling 71.24 percent of his passes and threw 42 touchdowns against only six interceptions. A reportedly stellar performance at his pro-day workout will push him up the board for some but only solidifies the first-round status he has had on my board all year long.

18. Matt Barkley, QB, Southern Cal: Barkley wasn't dynamic at his March 27 pro day, but in completing 55 of 62 passes, he answered any concerns about the health of his shoulder and probably eased doubts about his arm overall. The USC quarterback might lack eye-popping measureables, but he possesses the best combination of the three traits I've found to be the greatest indicator future success in the NFL -- accuracy, awareness and anticipation.

19. * Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU: Mingo possesses the frame (6-4, 241 pounds) and athleticism to warrant top-10 consideration, but at this point he remains a largely unpolished product who relies on his natural tools rather than technique to make plays. Given Mingo's upside, it is easy to imagine him terrorizing NFL quarterbacks off the edge as a multi-dimensional defender. Considering Mingo's relatively pedestrian numbers (38 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks) this season, as well as the struggles of other former highly regarded LSU defensive linemen in the NFL, the general manager who selects him that high is rolling the dice.

20. * D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama: Anyone who watched Alabama dismantle a talented Notre Dame defense in the BCS title game knows that the Crimson Tide offensive line, Fluker specifically, plays with great power. As such, ignore the fact that he "only" posted 21 reps at the Combine. The 6-5, 339-pound Fluker shows plenty of explosion where it matters ... on the field.

21. Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: Lotulelei is a dominant defender who warrants top-five consideration -- if he's healthy. NFL doctors discovered a potential life-threatening heart condition at the combine, which led to some teams removing the talented defensive tackle from their board entirely. According to a doctor's note sent to NFL teams and obtained by NFLDraftScout.com, Lotulelei's heart has returned to "complete normalization." Teams, of course, will wait until the results of their tests come back shortly after the medical re-checks in Indianapolis.

22. * Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame: Possessing soft hands and excellent body control, Eifert is the prototypical security blanket and he eased concerns about his straight-line speed with a very respectable 4.68 second 40-yard dash at 6-6, 250-pounds. Eifert isn't the second coming of Jimmy Graham, but he has the length and speed to be a challenging matchup and is experienced lining up wide, as well as in the traditional in-line role.

23. * Robert Woods, WR, USC: While all eyes were on his quarterback, Woods stole the show at USC's pro day, turning in much faster times in the shuttle drills than previously, proving the quick change-of-direction so evident on his tape and potentially securing a first-round selection.

24. Datone Jones, DE, UCLA: A few years ago, Jones, at 6-4, 280 pounds, might have been considered a 'tweener. With defensive coordinators forced to adjust to the rapidly expanding offenses of today's NFL, however, Jones ranks as an intriguing hybrid defender who can hold up against the run as a base defensive end, while beating interior lineman with his quickness if moved inside on passing downs. Jones racked up an impressive 19 tackles for loss in 2012 and has been equally impressive at the Senior Bowl and combine since.

25. * Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M: No player dropped further on my Big Board due to his performance (or lack thereof) during combine and pro-day drills than Moore, who proved both slower (4.95) and weaker (12 reps) than many of the prospects measuring much smaller than him (6-4, 250) at the combine. Moore has proven to be a playmaker at both defensive end and outside linebacker but the lack of preparation for the testing could be a sign that Moore's statistics were inflated by the Aggies' scheme and that he should have returned for his senior season.

26. Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon: At a rangy 6-6, 248 pounds, Jordan's length and explosiveness off the edge make him a matchup nightmare for opponents and he proved every bit the must-see athlete at the combine, as expected. Unfortunately, while this Jordan might be able to "fly" in shorts like Mike, he hasn't been as productive as his athleticism would indicate. Jordan has struggled with various injuries throughout his career and this troubling tendency again arose at the combine where he announced that he would have to undergo surgery before the draft to repair a torn labrum.

27. Justin Pugh, OL, Syracuse: Whether he winds up remaining at left tackle or moving inside to guard, Pugh has the athleticism to go along with his 6-5, 307-pound frame. Only the fact that he has shorter than preferred arms (31.5 inches) makes this a concern.

28. Kenny Vaccaro, FS, Texas: Instinctive, athletic and tough, Vaccaro has many of the traits scouts are looking for, though he showed less than ideal speed at the combine (4.63) and isn't a natural ball hawk. He does possess the versatility teams require in today's game, as Vaccaro has starred as an in-the-box run stuffer, single-high cover safety, and even demonstrated the fluidity to handle nickel responsibilities. He carries some character red flags, however, which teams will want to investigate.

29. * Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State: In terms of pure talent, Hankins deserves to be ranked among the top 20 prospects in the country. Unfortunately, his motor too often appears to be in neutral rather than overdrive -- something he didn't address well enough for my taste on or off the turf at the combine, and is slipping down my board as a result.

30. * DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson: A polished route runner who plays with burst and physicality, Hopkins is earning first-round grades from some teams. He didn't prove to be as fast as hoped in Indianapolis (4.57) but has the all-around game that should quickly translate into success in the NFL.

31. * Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford: Ertz proved to be quite a playmaker for the Cardinal but wasn't as impressive as I anticipated in Indianapolis, measuring in with shorter than ideal arms (31 3/4") and proving less explosive (4.76 seconds in the 40-yard dash, 30.5" vertical jump) than his game tape indicated. His ability to threaten the seam keeps him just inside the first round on my board.

32. * Matt Elam, SS, Florida: An instinctive defender with a knack for making the big play in big games, everything about Elam's game is big ... except his 5-10, 208-pound frame. Elam's physicality and ball-skills make up for a lack of elite size.

The Second Tier
33. Kawann Short, DT, Purdue: Snap-to-snap consistency has been an issue with Short throughout much of his career but he's also proven to be a natural playmaker, averaging 16 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and three blocked kicks over the past three years.

34. Alex Okafor, DE, Texas: Due to his time inside at defensive tackle, Okafor uses his hands very well and proved a better than advertised overall athlete at his March 26 pro day.

35. Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas: The Arkansas passer wasn't as productive as hoped in 2012 but he possesses the physical and leadership traits to compete for a starting role early in his NFL career.

36. Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State: Athletic, instinctive and tough, Taylor is one of the best all-around cornerbacks in a solid class.

37. * Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU: Instinctive and physical, Minter was the most dependable player on an LSU defense chock full of prospective NFL talent. He also proved to be significantly more explosive during timed drills held at LSU's March 27 pro day than he had been at the combine.

38. Larry Warford, OG, Kentucky: Overshadowed in this class by Warmack and Cooper, the powerful Warford is a legitimate top-50 prospect in his own right.

39. Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama: Experienced inside and out in the 3-4 alignment and projecting nicely at defensive tackle in a four-man front, as well, Williams is one of the safer, tougher defensive linemen in the 2013 draft.

40. * Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama: Nursing a slightly torn hamstring, Lacy wasn't able to work out at the combine or Alabama's pro day. Scouts are getting anxious to learn if he's a slow healer or just slow. He'll get his chance to prove he's neither by working out on April 11.

41. Cornelius "Tank" Carradine, DE, Florida State: Having torn his ACL in November, Carradine will first have to prove his health to warrant this lofty grade, but the talent and effort on tape is enough to justify taking the risk. He'll attempt to prove his health during an individual pro day April 20.

42. Khaseem Greene, OLB, Rutgers: A former safety turned linebacker, Greene is a turnover machine (played a role in 24 turnovers over his career), and a future NFL star as a 4-3 weakside linebacker.

43. Arthur Brown, OLB, Kansas State: Scouts wish he were a bit bigger and made more impactful plays but no linebacker in the 2013 draft plays with greater instincts, hustle and reliable open-field tackling than Brown.

44. Margus Hunt, DE, SMU: Hunt began the 2012 season atop Bruce Feldman's "Freak" list as the nation's top athlete and certainly didn't disappoint at the combine, posting a 4.62 40-yard dash and tying all defensive linemen with 38 reps of 225 pounds at 6-8, 277 pounds.

45. Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame: Te'o improved his time in the 40-yard dash at his pro day but 4.7 seconds is still too slow for me to consider an inside linebacker in the first round.

46. * Eric Reid, FS, LSU: Terrific in run support but questionable instincts, fluidity could make him a liability in coverage in the NFL.

47. * Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee: Hunter dropped too many big passes for my taste in 2012 but he's shockingly fluid for a 6-4, 196-pounder and could emerge as a Pro Bowl talent with greater concentration.

48. Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State: Banks ran poorly at the combine (4.61) but has the length, physicality and aggression to be successful in a press scheme. His 16 career interceptions largely against SEC competition should not suddenly be forgotten because of a poor 40-yard dash.

49. Jonathan Cyprien, SS, Florida International: The ultra-physical Cyprien was dynamic in Mobile, erasing my previous concerns about his level of competition but speed (4.64) is a concern.

50. John Jenkins, DT, Georgia: Jenkins did not produce elite statistics (50 tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack) but at 6-4, 346 pounds, Jenkins certainly possesses the beef to clog running lanes and is experienced at both nose guard and defensive end in the 3-4 alignment.

Just Missed the Cut:

51. *Da'Rick Rogers, WR, Tennessee Tech
52. Phillip Thomas, FS, Fresno State
53. Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech
54. E.J. Manuel, QB, Florida State
55. Brandon Williams, DT, Missouri Southern
56. Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina
57. Terron Armstead, OT, Arkansas Pine-Bluff
58. Vance McDonald, TE, Rice
59. Markus Wheaton, WR, Oregon State
60. *David Bakhtiari, OT, Colorado
61. *Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU
62. *David Amerson, CB, North Carolina State
63. *Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State
64. Barrett Jones, OC, Alabama
65. Ryan Nassib, QB, Syracuse
66. *Travis Frederick, OC, Wisconsin
67. *Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia
68. Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
69. Brian Winters, OG, Kent State
70. Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor
71. *Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina
72. *Sio Moore, OLB, Connecticut
73. Aaron Dobson, WR, Marshall
74. Travis Kelce, TE, Cincinnati
75. Johnathan Franklin, RB, UCLA
76. *Jamie Collins, OLB, Southern Miss
77. Jordan Reed, TE, Florida
78. Leon McFadden, CB, San Diego State
79. Bacarri Rambo, FS, Georgia
80. Oday Aboushi, OT, Virginia
81. Kiko Alonso, ILB, Oregon
82. Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State
83. Josh Boyce, WR, TCU
84. *Logan Ryan, CB, Rutgers
85. Chris Harper, WR, Kansas State
86. *Chris Faulk, OT, LSU
87. John Simon, OLB, Ohio State
88. Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M
89. Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State
90. Robert Alford, CB, Southeast Louisiana
91. D.J. Swearinger, SS, South Carolina
92. Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M
93. *Tyrann Mathieu, CB, LSU
94. Dwayne Gratz, CB, Connecticut
95. *Corey Lemonier, OLB, Auburn
96. *Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State
97. D.J. Hayden, CB, Houston
98. Stepfan Taylor, RB, Stanford
99. Matt Scott, QB, Arizona
100. Brennan Williams, OT, North Carolina

Rob Rang is a Senior Analyst for NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange.
 
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Holy crap. He's got Ogletree all the way down at #67?

I thought I was crazy for putting him in the mid-2nd in a mock I've been playing around with. Maybe not.

 
Holy crap. He's got Ogletree all the way down at #67?

I thought I was crazy for putting him in the mid-2nd in a mock I've been playing around with. Maybe not.
I am sure there are NFL front offices that have him as a top 15 player and others thathave him as a 3rd or 4th round guy. Neck-up matters and in that regard Ogletree is a failure...so far. Can't blame someone for taking him round 1, can't blame them for waiting until day 3 either. There will be enough that think they can fix him to take him early though, maybe not day 1 but by very early day 2 absolutely.

 
Big Board: Some top prospects have last chance to impress scouts

by Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst

27. Justin Pugh, OL, Syracuse: Whether he winds up remaining at left tackle or moving inside to guard, Pugh has the athleticism to go along with his 6-5, 307-pound frame. Only the fact that he has shorter than preferred arms (31.5 inches) makes this a concern.
Rob Rang is a Senior Analyst for NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange.
Pugh scouting report makes him sound like Riley Reiff on a good day. I was not impressed by his play in the Senior Bowl game. Now that Landry Jones has apparently fallen in the ranking, Pugh gets my vote as the most over-rated prospect.

Edit to add: IMO, Trufant is a close second in this catagory.

 
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I own the first pick in a start 2QB league and I haven't really followed this draft class at all but that NFB Mock seems WAY OUT THERE.

 
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http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-s...-50-alabama-rb-eddie-lacy-154751676--nfl.html

The Shutdown 50: Alabama RB Eddie Lacy
By Doug Farrar | Shutdown Corner

With the 2012 NFL season in the books, and the scouting combine in the rear-view, it's time to take a closer look at the 50 players we think will be the biggest difference-makers at the next level from this draft class. To that end, we're happy to continue this year's Shutdown 50 scouting reports (Hint: There may actually be more than 50). You can read last year's group here. The final 50 players were chosen and ranked based on game tape, combine and Pro Day results, overall positional value, and attributes and liabilities on and off the field.

37: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

We continue this year's series with Alabama running back Eddie Lacy, who is looking to follow in the footsteps of Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson, and become the third straight Crimson Tide back to nab a first-round NFL selection -- which would be a pretty impressive feat, given the NFL's devaluation of the position. Best known for his dominant performance against Notre Dame in the BCS Championship game (though that game was more a referendum on Alabama's offensive line, and a wake-up call to those who thought Manti Te'o was a top-5 pick), Lacy also did very well against some of the NCAA's best defenses in 2012.

A 2009 redshirt freshman out of Dutchtown High School in Geismar, La., the 5-foot-11, 235-pound Lacy improved his numbers through his collegiate career as Ingram and Richardson moved to the NFL, and he got more opportunities -- 406 yards in 2010, 674 yards in 2011 (when he led the SEC with 7.1 yards per carry), and 1,322 yards in a 2012 season that saw him score 17 rushing touchdowns and lead the conference in yards from scrimmage with 1,511.

He's shown that he fits the impressive pedigree, but how will Lacy fare on draft boards when many teams don't see running back as a first-round position unless you're dealing with a franchise-defining player?

“I know they pass the ball a lot but at the same time, having a guy who can run the ball a lot benefits your offense," Lacy said at the scouting combine. "In short-yardage plays, you can’t really throw the ball when it’d be easier to run it. If you have that running back, it’s not a problem.”

In power situations, there's no question Lacy is that back. But does he have the versatile game to open that door to the first round? One thing that's been in his way is the hamstring injury he suffered in a February workout at the IMG Academy in Florida -- he was unable to work out at the scouting combine in late February, or at Alabama's March pro day. He'll do a specific workout for NFL teams on April 11, and that will likely decide if he's on anybody's top 32.

Pros: Perfect build for a power back -- outstanding musculature with a big lower body and consistent leg drive. Impressive "foot frequency," especially in short spaces -- keeps his feet tapping and moving while waiting for lanes and gaps. Goes from stop to start in a hurry and moves through the hole with speed and authority. Very quick laterally to move from gap to gap, and keeps his eyes downfield to exploit openings as they happen. Will occasionally explode outside from between the guards with his lateral quickness. Looks to bounce quickly when things aren't open inside. Excellent vision; will slash away from defenders to holes some backs wouldn't see. Cut-and-go style makes him an ideal zone runner. Very powerful player who will blow through bounce tackles and rip past back-seven defenders. Will bull and spin out of trouble for additional gains. Consistently falls and vaults forward at the tackle to gain extra yardage. As aggressive as he is, shows patience at the line; he won't generally outrun his blocks.

Strong blocker who will square up at the point of attack and sustain protections. Effective weapon on quick screens and swing passes. Has a decent juke move to evade in the open field. Outstanding sense of balance allows him to regain his footing when avoiding tackles, and he runs through trash very well.

Cons: Does not possess superior burst outside the numbers and at second-level and in the open field -- doesn't have that extra gear, and defenders will catch up to him on those plays pretty quickly. Not a sure receiver -- tends to run nebulous patterns at times on "Texas" routes and downfield plays, and has some easy drops. Benefitted from a superior offensive line, which takes away some of his strength of opponent argument. Runs upright as a rule; may need to lower his body more at the point of attack to shoot through NFL defensive lines.

Lacy's injury history will give some teams pause -- he has had other lower body issues (sprained ankle, turf toe) in addition to the hamstring injury.

Conclusion: Most likely, Lacy will run in the high 4.5 or low 4.6 range at his workout 40-yard dash, which would line up with what the tape shows. While he's a very powerful back with a lot to like about his play, Lacy needs work in a few of the things that many NFL teams look for in their running backs. In comparison to his Alabama predecessors, Lacy isn't quite as versatile as Ingram (especially in the passing game), and he's not as dynamic as Richardson. His size and overall skill set would seem to relegate him to rotational status in the NFL, unless he's taken by a team that specifically covets power zone runners as the backbone of its offensive structure. Bell-cow backs get taken in the first round, while players meant for specific rotational roles -- no matter how well they perform those roles -- tend to slip just a bit. I could see a team falling in love with Lacy's tape and reaching up a bit, but the more likely scenario is an early second-round selection.
NFL Comparison: Stephen Davis, Washington Redskins/Carolina Panthers, 1996-2005
 
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-s...wn-50-usc-qb-matt-barkley-195805461--nfl.html

The Shutdown 50: USC QB Matt Barkley
By Doug Farrar | Shutdown Corner

With the 2012 NFL season in the books, and the scouting combine in the rear-view, it's time to take a closer look at the 50 players we think will be the biggest difference-makers at the next level from this draft class. To that end, we're happy to continue this year's Shutdown 50 scouting reports (Hint: There may actually be more than 50). You can read last year's group here. The final 50 players were chosen and ranked based on game tape, combine and Pro Day results, overall positional value, and attributes and liabilities on and off the field.

#34: Matt Barkley, QB, USC

We continue this year's series with USC quarterback Matt Barkley. The four-year starter at the highly-regarded Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, Calif., was the first freshman quarterback to start there since Todd Marinovich. Fortunately for Barkley, that's the only comparison there. He committed to Pete Carroll's USC program as one of the highest-ranked prospects at the position in recent years, and started all four years for the Trojans. Barkley's willingness to stay at the school through USC's recent history of recruiting violations, scholarship limitations, and bowl bans speaks well of his character, especially as some thought him to be a top prospect had he come out for the 2012 NFL draft.

Barkley's best year was indeed 2011, when he completed 308 passes in 446 attempts for 3,528 yards, 39 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. His senior season, abbreviated as it was by injury, was nearly as impressive in some ways -- despite the departure of left tackle Matt Kalil to the NFL and the subsequent protection issues, he completed 246 passes in 387 attempts for 3.273 yards, 36 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions in just 11 games. Barkley was doing more and more as the season went along, and whether he was asked to or he took the initiative, things didn't go well. He threw nine of his 15 picks in his last four games for the Trojans, and this may be the fundamental issue with Barkley when projecting him to the next level.

As much as his intangibles are attributes, and as productive as he has been (1,001 completions in 1,562 attempts for 12,327 yards, 116 touchdowns, and 48 interceptions in four seasons), Barkley has an "in the box" nature to his game that he may not be able to transcend.

Pros: Starting experience at the high school and college level has given Barkley a comprehensive and obvious grasp of many of the "little things" that correlate with NFL success - he throws very well with anticipation, runs play-action and boot-action, and evades pressure in short spaces. Has a mechanically sound and quick release with a consistent launch point that allows him to throw the ball all across the field. Processes multiple reads and has a growing ability to look defenders off before he throws. Extremely adept at timing with his receivers on slants and drags. Throws on the run as well as he does from the pocket -- he's displayed a pro-level ability to roll out quickly and hit the screen receiver at the right time. Reads and understands coverage concepts quickly in games.

Natural leader who actually called USC recruits on his own after the school's NCAA violations in to try and convince them to stay. Could be more expansive in an offense better-tailored to his strengths -- 2012 tape shows an offensive play-designer in head coach Lane Kiffin who would frequently fail to set up formation advantages for his quarterback. 2012 season ended early with a separated shoulder against UCLA on November 17, but Barkley showed that he had all his velocity back (such as it is) at his March pro day.

Cons: Barkley's oft-discussed arm strength issues are real, and the limitations show up on tape all the time. Aims the ball well on vertical routes, and has a good ball arc on deeper throws, but can't zing it on a rope consistently over 15 yards in the air. Benefitted from two elite receivers (Robert Woods, Marqise Lee) who made plays downfield on balls lesser receivers would not have. Deeper passes tend to wobble and lose velocity; this would be a major concern were Barkley to be selected by a team playing outdoors in a less-than-hospitable environs. Does not consistently make throws from 12-20 yards in the air into tight windows, and those windows will be much tighter in the NFL when he faces more complex coverages and better pure athletes. Tends to throw from his ### when corking one deep and accuracy is occasionally affected as a result.

Loses even more arm strength when pressured -- doesn't have the zip to throw intermediate passes with rushers in his face, and will have to throw balls away instead. Needs to be ideally mechanically inclined for all his throws to work -- he's not a guy who's going to look great throwing off his back foot or from weird angles ... and top-level NFL quarterbacks need to be able to make those throws.

Conclusion: To me, Barkley's main problem is that he's coming into the NFL about 10 years too late. The ideal quarterback for a West Coast offense used to be Barkley's type -- the smart leader who wouldn't wow you with his arm, but could do enough when protected to help the right kind of team attain consistent success. Think of Matt Hasselbeck or Jeff Garcia. But these days, far more is required of the quarterback position at the NFL level from an athletic perspective. Even in WCO structures, teams are employing more vertical routes with burner receivers to keep up with the Joneses. Barkley may be able to acquire more arm strength over time -- Drew Brees and Tom Brady are two who have improved their velocity exponentially from their college days -- but it's also possible that he's maxed out from that perspective. And if that's the case, the "he is what he is" argument may not hold water when projecting him as a starter.

I'm reminded of the San Francisco 49ers' choice to stick with Colin Kaepernick even after Alex Smith had recovered from a mid-season concussion. Smith was the safe choice, with many of Barkley's attributes and limitations, but Jim Harbaugh saw a much higher ceiling in Kaepernick, though he had far less experience. Look at the Seattle Seahawks' decision to put the relatively "safe" Matt Flynn on the bench even after signing him to a lucrative contract, because third-round rookie Russell Wilson could do so much more. Few moves better indicate where the NFL is headed, and Barkley's very much on the wrong end of that curve.

NFL Comparison: Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle Seahawks, 2004-2007
 
Interesting tidbit from draftinsider.net:

Former Missouri running back Derrick Washington, who lit it up at Tuskegee last season, is visiting the Kansas City Chiefs and has a private workout scheduled with the New England Patriots. Washington was dominant during his Missouri days and looked like a prime NFL running back prospect before being sidelined with legal issues.
 
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http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/blog/e...-tyler-wilson-is-best-passer-in-class-of-2013

Top QB guru: Tyler Wilson is best passer in Class of 2013
By Matt Rybaltowski | CBSSports.com

Before the Washington Redskins selected Robert Griffin III with the No. 2 overall pick in last year's NFL Draft, the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner fine-tuned his mechanics under reputed quarterback guru Terry Shea.

While Shea hasn't quite placed Tyler Wilson in Griffin's class in the days leading up to this year's draft, the former Bears offensive coordinator believes Wilson could materialize into a solid quarterback on the next level.

As Geno Smith and Matt Barkley continue to receive high first-round grades in a number of mock drafts, Shea remains baffled the former Arkansas quarterback lingers as a projected second-round pick.

"I would take Tyler Wilson first in this class," Shea told Jim Corbett of USA Today Sports. "I'm very strong on Tyler Wilson. Everything adds up to an A-plus. I know Geno Smith is way up there [but] I don't know what is going on in terms of teams not recognizing Tyler Wilson is a first-round draft pick.

Shea, who worked under Bill Walsh at Stanford in the early 1990s, spent several months this offseason mentoring Wilson at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. Wilson, who became the first Razorbacks quarterback to receive first-team All-SEC honors in 2011, also trained alongside Smith and Barkley.

Since leaving the Rams following the 2008 season, Shea has helped a number of prominent quarterbacks prepare for the draft. In 2009, Shea mentored Matthew Stafford and Josh Freeman, who were taken No. 1 and 17th overall. Shea has also tutored Sam Bradford, Blaine Gabbert and Collin Klein.

In 2011, Wilson ranked in the top 25 in FBS in passing efficiency after finishing with 3,638 yards and a 4-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio (24 touchdowns, six interceptions). Wilson's numbers dipped last season after missing a loss to Alabama with a concussion. Shea, however, is enamored with Wilson's footwork, arm strength and intelligence on the field.

"Robert Griffin III was very special when I worked with him last year, but this guy's RPMs are about as good as it gets in terms of how he can drive the ball," Shea told USA Today Sports. "He's not 4.5 in the 40 but he has fluid feet. He [also has] a really sharp quarterback IQ."

Wilson is scheduled to meet with the Bills next week.

"Hopefully someone assesses me to be an early pick," Wilson told USA Today Sports. "I want to be really successful and I'm going to do what it takes to get there."

Keep your eye on everything NFL by following Matt Rybaltowski on Twitter @mattrybaltowski.
 
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-s...-arkansas-qb-tyler-wilson-230800958--nfl.html

The Shutdown 50: Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson

By Doug Farrar | Shutdown Corner

With the 2012 NFL season in the books, and the scouting combine in the rear-view, it's time to take a closer look at the 50 players we think will be the biggest difference-makers at the next level from this draft class. To that end, we're happy to continue this year's Shutdown 50 scouting reports (Hint: There may actually be more than 50). You can read last year's group here. The final 50 players were chosen and ranked based on game tape, combine and Pro Day results, overall positional value, and attributes and liabilities on and off the field.

#33: Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas

We continue this year's series with Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson, who went through more organizational churn in his two seasons as the Razorbacks' starter than anyone should want. Ryan Mallett's successor in Bobby Petrino's offense started out with a bang in 2011, completing 277 of 438 passes for 3,638 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions, and becoming the first Arkansas quarterback to receive First-Team All-SEC honors. Everything looked solid for 2012 until Petrino was fired for doing ... well, the kinds of things one does if one is Bobby Petrino. John Smith stepped in, Jarius Wright was replaced by Cobi Hamilton as Wilson's primary playmaker, and Wilson got back to work. On a team that sunk to 4-8 from the previous season's 11-2 mark, Wilson held it all together -- something he doesn't get enough credit for -- and kept rolling along. He completed 249 of 401 passes for 3,387 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 13 picks in 2012, and headed off to the Senior Bowl to further solidify his stock in a very iffy quarterback class.

That didn't work out as expected -- Wilson, like every other quarterback not named E.J. Manuel, appeared overmatched by a plethora of great defensive talent in Mobile, and his scouting combine didn't really advance his case, either. However, NFL teams will hope that Wilson's work with Chris Weinke and Terry Shea at the IMG Academy will shore up the rough spots and put the finishing touches on what does look, at times, to be a future NFL starter.

"I put a lot on my shoulders as far as I want to do well; I want to be selected high," Wilson said at his mid-March pro day. "But you've just got to be you at the end of the day and go to work and whatever happens, happens. I'm in a lucky situation where you just get to go to work and have a chance to play in the NFL."

Wilson has proven that he can deal with adversity at the college level. But can he engineer success in the pros? The answer appears to be inconclusive, as it is with every 2013 quarterback prospect, but there's a lot to like here.

Pros: Not as tall or as big as some NFL teams would like (6-foot-2, 215 pounds), but a tough player with a good frame who will make stick throws with pressure in his face. Elusive and mobile with the ability to break tackles and make throws after contact. Throws very well on the run; times receivers in open spaces and can hit those throws with excellent anticipation. Good footwork from under center on longer dropbacks -- Wilson will get back quickly and rock from his back foot to his plant foot consistently. Can move from under center to shotgun to Pistol without a hitch. Improvisational nature of his game is great when it works. He adapts to adversity well. Wilson will complete tough passes downfield off his back foot and at disadvantageous body positions. Re-sets his eyes on the field when flushed out of the pocket -- you have to take him down to end the play, and he has a absolute desire to finish. Places the ball exceedingly well in tight spaces and has the consistent ability to throw his receivers open, and to throw where only they can catch it when defenders are all over them.

Natural leader who took on that role even more after the Bobby Petrino embarrassment. Resilient individual who will pop right back up after you knock him down, both literally and figuratively. Succeed statistically in both 2011 and 2012 despite coaching changes, a questionable-at-best offensive line, and the fact that he'd probably have a handful more touchdowns in each starting season if his receivers were more sure-handed. Loss of three draftable receivers to the NFL after the 2011 season (Wright, Joe Adams and Greg Childs) didn't seem to affect him as much as it would others. Doesn't seem to fall under the "hothouse" designation given to other Petrino products -- can do more than just benefit from wide-open spaces in spread offenses.

Cons: Will occasionally lose his bearings against stronger defenses. Has a kamikaze element to his game that he really needs to get over -- Wilson will make highly questionable throws into tight coverages, and when he's getting sacked, leading to easily avoidable turnovers. Throws with a funky three-quarter delivery and pre-throw hitch that could leave him open to mechanical issues down the road. Tends to push and shot-put the ball on short and intermediate throws -- doesn't have a lot of touch on those passes and will occasionally zip one off that his receivers can't catch because it comes out too hot.

Struggles with ball arc and deep timing on throws that require it, such as sideline fades or back-shoulder throws in the end zone. Gets antsy with his feet in the pocket when under pressure. More a "see it and throw it" player who will lock on to his first receiver and telegraph his reads. Will invite pressure when his first read is covered, and needs to navigate the pocket more adeptly when under duress. Has missed time due to concussions. Didn't show a lot of mechanical improvement in 2012, but given the circumstances surrounding his senior season, that shouldn't be held against him ... yet. Lack of regression with all the noise around him is impressive.

Conclusion: Quarterbacks can start in the pros and be very successful despite some pretty severe mechanical idiosyncrasies -- Philip Rivers, Matthew Stafford, and Jay Cutler are three in the current NFL who have done so. But each of those players have also had long and glaring stretches of inconsistent play and production, because their kinks aren't fixed, and the NFL demands a higher standard of performance. To succeed at the next level, Wilson will need the right kind of quarterbacks coach who will drill him on key fundamentals and maintain that efficiency. Had he enjoyed a bit more time in a stable system set for quarterback success, Wilson might well be a sure first-rounder. Now, he'll take a bit more projection to fit that suit, but the NFL team that takes a shot on him (most likely in the mid-second round, though one never knows) could be rewarded in time.

NFL Comparison: Philip Rivers, North Carolina State (2002)
 
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A few more from Rotoworld:

Lousiana Tech WR Quinton Patton visited the Rams on Friday.
The Rams drafted Brian Quick with the first pick of the second-round last season, and utilized Chris Givens' vertical speed effectively, but they could absolutely use another receiver to help Sam Bradford. Patton is a super reliable target who excels on bucket throws and working back towards the quarterback. We expect the Rams to spend a first-round pick at the position.

Source: Jim Thomas on Twitter
Packers beat writer Ty Dunne tweeted that the Seahawks have been "very interested" in Louisiana Tech WR Quinton Patton, dating back to the 2011 season.
Patton is one of our favorites, winning with smoothness, body control, and fluidity. He isn't going to surprise athletically, but Patton gets the job done on vertical routes or comebacks by setting up his opposition. The Seahawks have already added Percy Harvin this offseason, and Patton is expected to be a second-round pick.

Source: Ty Dunne on Twitter
CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora is "intrigued" by Tennessee QB Tyler Bray's upcoming workout with the Bills on Saturday.
La Canfora mentioned that he doesn't "go too crazy about draft visits/meetings," but singled this one out specifically. We are interested as well, since Bray likely won't be among the quarterbacks selected in the top two rounds. Our best guess is that he is the backup plan if the Bills miss out on Geno Smith and Ryan Nassib.

Source: Jason La Canfora on Twitter
Tennessee WR Cordarrelle Patterson visited the Rams last week.
Patterson could make a lot of sense for the Rams in the first-round. They are certainly showing interest in a variety of pass catchers, but none have the raw, playmaking talent of Patterson. He created separation without refined routes, and had a high catch rate despite consistently body catching.

Source: Jim Thomas on Twitter
The Bills brought in UConn TE Ryan Griffin for a visit on Friday.
Griffin has been lost in the tight end shuffle, but offers third day value. He has inline size with some fluidity when working downfield as a receiver. Expect a large number of prospects at the position to be selected on the third day.

Source: Buffalo Bills on Twitter
The Bills hosted Oklahoma QB Landry Jones for a visit on Friday.
Jones is starting to generate some buzz in draft circles after creating very little for a few months of the process. If able to stay in rhythm and lock on to a first or second read, Jones shows promise, but there are plenty of issues when asked to work in tight spaces or scan the field.

Source: Buffalo Bills on Twitter
 
Top QB guru: Tyler Wilson is best passer in Class of 2013

By Matt Rybaltowski | CBSSports.com

Before the Washington Redskins selected Robert Griffin III with the No. 2 overall pick in last year's NFL Draft, the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner fine-tuned his mechanics under reputed quarterback guru Terry Shea.

While Shea hasn't quite placed Tyler Wilson in Griffin's class in the days leading up to this year's draft, the former Bears offensive coordinator believes Wilson could materialize into a solid quarterback on the next level.

As Geno Smith and Matt Barkley continue to receive high first-round grades in a number of mock drafts, Shea remains baffled the former Arkansas quarterback lingers as a projected second-round pick.

"I would take Tyler Wilson first in this class," Shea told Jim Corbett of USA Today Sports. "I'm very strong on Tyler Wilson. Everything adds up to an A-plus. I know Geno Smith is way up there [but] I don't know what is going on in terms of teams not recognizing Tyler Wilson is a first-round draft pick.

Shea, who worked under Bill Walsh at Stanford in the early 1990s, spent several months this offseason mentoring Wilson at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. Wilson, who became the first Razorbacks quarterback to receive first-team All-SEC honors in 2011, also trained alongside Smith and Barkley.

Since leaving the Rams following the 2008 season, Shea has helped a number of prominent quarterbacks prepare for the draft. In 2009, Shea mentored Matthew Stafford and Josh Freeman, who were taken No. 1 and 17th overall. Shea has also tutored Sam Bradford, Blaine Gabbert and Collin Klein.

In 2011, Wilson ranked in the top 25 in FBS in passing efficiency after finishing with 3,638 yards and a 4-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio (24 touchdowns, six interceptions). Wilson's numbers dipped last season after missing a loss to Alabama with a concussion. Shea, however, is enamored with Wilson's footwork, arm strength and intelligence on the field.

"Robert Griffin III was very special when I worked with him last year, but this guy's RPMs are about as good as it gets in terms of how he can drive the ball," Shea told USA Today Sports. "He's not 4.5 in the 40 but he has fluid feet. He [also has] a really sharp quarterback IQ."

Wilson is scheduled to meet with the Bills next week.

"Hopefully someone assesses me to be an early pick," Wilson told USA Today Sports. "I want to be really successful and I'm going to do what it takes to get there."

Keep your eye on everything NFL by following Matt Rybaltowski on Twitter @mattrybaltowski.
Can't imagine why a guy that is in the business of getting player drafted could possibly think one of his pupils should be drafted high. :rolleyes:

 
I think if I had to chose today in my 2QB league that I have 1.01 in, I'd select Nassib. Geno just has some serious flags about his work ethic. In a league like that you can't not go QB with the first pick just because of supply and demand so that's where I'd hang my hat.

 
I think if I had to chose today in my 2QB league that I have 1.01 in, I'd select Nassib. Geno just has some serious flags about his work ethic. In a league like that you can't not go QB with the first pick just because of supply and demand so that's where I'd hang my hat.
Only heard that one place, and the write got pretty well slammed for it.

 
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap10...raft-tyler-wilson-geno-smith-top-quarterbacks

2013 NFL Draft: Tyler Wilson, Geno Smith top quarterbacks

By Josh Norris NFL.com

Draft Analyst

With the 2013 NFL Draft set for April 25-27 at Radio City Music Hall in New York, NFL.com draft analyst Josh Norris is identifying the top prospects available at every position. Today, he presents an overview of the best quarterbacks. For a complete list of the rest of the positions, click here.

Let me start by saying these quarterback rankings are not reactionary. I've felt the same way about the top four since the end of the 2012 season, with Tyler Wilson holding on to his No. 1 spot since summer evaluations. I know the Arkansas product is not a popular choice when it comes to picking the best quarterback in the 2013 NFL Draft class. However, as we've seen in every single draft, prospects who are selected later than others can often emerge as better players.

I believe the paramount trait a quarterback must possess is an ability to make things happen in the face of pressure and in confined space. Turn on any tape of Wilson and you'll see him take a pounding from opposing pass rushers, get up and move on to the next play. That is not to say that Wilson was prone to taking sacks; quite the contrary. However, he will take a hit to ensure his receiver has enough time to create a sliver of separation. There were also plenty of instances in which Wilson bought himself time and tested vertically after scanning the field for open targets. Such aggressiveness and toughness -- important factors when looking for a quality starter -- are uncommon among quarterback prospects.

Wilson is not perfect. He's been known to have footwork issues, force passes to a single target (Cobi Hamilton in 2012) or loft attempts to receivers in double coverage. But considering his ability to change throwing platforms, recognize open receivers, accurately distribute the ball and take punishment in the pocket, I have Wilson atop my list.

I like Geno Smith as a prospect quite a bit, as you can see from his ranking here. However, he is not quite the complete package he has been made out to be. There are things I like when watching Smith in the pocket, but too often, he has looked slow in his reads after locking on to an initial target. He also has a tendency to hop in his drops and drift from pressure, though these issues likely won't doom him, since he did not flash them in every game. Of course, this ranking has nothing to do with Smith off the field; it's only about things he can do to improve on it.

1. Tyler Wilson, Arkansas: I don't expect Wilson to be among the top quarterbacks selected in April's draft, but he can be successful wherever he lands, thanks to his willingness to stick to the pocket and test vertically. There are some placement issues, but those can be fixed with improved footwork. Projection: Third round

2. Geno Smith, West Virginia: Some might call the offense Smith ran in college a gimmick. Rather than worry about that, I would isolate the throws and reads he made, as well as the poise he displayed, and consider how that all projects to the NFL. Smith did switch offenses prior to his junior season, shifting to one that focused on a smaller number of plays run in a variety of ways or sets to beat defenses. Projection: First round

3. Zac Dysert, Miami of Ohio: Dysert, who is perhaps another surprise at No. 3, has so many great qualities as a passer. Poor offensive line talent forced him to play in a four- or five-wide quick-read offense in 2012, but he still showed excellent pocket movement and vertical placement, along with an ability to throw on the run. Projection: Third round

4. Mike Glennon, N.C. State: The longer Glennon holds the ball, the more concerned I get. He's got plenty of accuracy and velocity to be successful if he lands in an offense that allows him to hit a first read after planting his back foot off of a three- or five-step drop. But as he has shown, when he's pressured on the interior, things break down quickly. Projection: Second round

5. Ryan Nassib, Syracuse: There's a lot to like about Nassib, namely his willingness to work through reads and decisively fire passes to his receivers. Though he is mobile, his pocket movement is frenetic and could put him in bad spots. Projection: Second round

6. Matt Barkley, USC: Barkley, who might make more pre-snap reads than any other quarterback in this class, will have to rely on rhythm, timing and placement to win. Though the longtime Trojan starter has struggled to buy time against pressure, he has shown nice touch when hitting receivers downfield. Projection: Second round

7. EJ Manuel, Florida State: Many love Manuel's tools, most notably a compact release and the mobility he showed when things broke down. However, against pressure, Manuel tended to fall off his throws or make very poor decisions. In that regard, there are some similarities between Manuel and Blaine Gabbert. Projection: Second round

Follow Josh Norris on Twitter @JoshNorris.
 
A few more from Rotoworld:

The Sideline View's Adam Caplan tweets that teams like Miami (OH) QB Zac Dysert the more they watch him.
"Word in scouting community on Dysert: More coaches get involved in watching tape, the better teams feel about him," Caplan tweeted. Dysert has a strong arm, is instinctive and at his best working outside of the pocket. However, there are concerns about his decision making and ability to operate within the pocket. We've seen players like him succeed in the past, such as Ben Roethlisberger, but also those that have struggled, such as Jake Locker. It will be interesting to see which city he goes to.

Source: Adam Caplan on Twitter
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Bob McGinn reports teams are very concerned about Michigan QB/WR Denard Robinson's nerve issue.
"Some teams v concerned about WR Denard Robinson's elbow/nerve problem they say affects opening/closing of hand. Fate rests on med rechecks," McGinn tweeted. Robinson's position and stock has seemingly been all over the place, with few agreeing on what his true value is. If he has health issues, the questions about his position may be not be all that important when it's all set and done.

Source: Bob McGinn on Twitter
Sports Illustrated's Peter King was told by Jon Gruden that Florida State QB E.J. Manuel has a "powerful vibe" around him.
"He'd be a fun guy to coach. Very fun. Can call any play. He can run any play. Upbeat. Powerful vibe around him. People just like him. They want to be around him. Loves the game. I really, really like this kid," Gruden told King about Manuel. The Florida State quarterback is a fast riser up draft boards, which has been because of the league's desire for mobile quarterbacks. Manuel is just that, and he offers upside as a passer.

Source: Sports Illustrated
NFL.com's Gil Brandt reports former FAU WR Duron Carter worked out for the Miami Dolphins.
Brandt recently tweeted that Carter should be a priority free agent following the conclusion of the draft. He has a "similar speed (4.58), possession type," to his father, Cris, according to Brandt. We don't expect Carter to get drafted because of his reported poor attitude. He will have to come a long way to succeed in the NFL.

Source: Gil Brandt on Twitter
NFL Network's Mike Mayock calls Tennessee WR Zach Rogers the top sleeper at his position.
He goes on to project the third receiver as a fourth- or fifth-round prospect. "Zach is a slot guy who ran a 4.45," Mayock said. "He catches everything. He runs good routes. Prior to his Pro Day, I would’ve thought he’d be a sixth- or seventh-rounder. But he may have moved up into that fourth- or fifth-round range simply because he’s faster than people thought."

Source: Philly Mag
 
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-s...-50-stanford-te-zach-ertz-054016883--nfl.html

The Shutdown 50: Stanford TE Zach Ertz
By Doug Farrar | Shutdown Corner

With the 2012 NFL season in the books, and the scouting combine in the rear-view, it's time to take a closer look at the 50 players we think will be the biggest difference-makers at the next level from this draft class. To that end, we're happy to continue this year's Shutdown 50 scouting reports (Hint: There may actually be more than 50). You can read last year's group here. The final 50 players were chosen and ranked based on game tape, combine and Pro Day results, overall positional value, and attributes and liabilities on and off the field.

#32: Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford

We continue this year's series with Stanford tight end Zach Ertz. Caught behind Coby Fleener on the Cardinal depth chart in 2010 and 2011, the 6-foot-5, 249-pound Ertz became the team's full-time starter at the position just in time for Andrew Luck's departure. He caught passes from Josh Nunes and Kevin Hogan instead, and led all FBS tight ends with 69 receptions and 898 yards. He added six touchdowns to become one of the most prominent tight ends in the NCAA, just at a time when the NFL expects more from the position than ever.

For Ertz, the primary challenge will be to find a definitive place in the pros with a skill set that hearkens back to the days when tight ends weren't expected to run 4.5 40s at 250 pounds, and sear the seams of a field with dynamic explosiveness.

"Everybody talks about the speed of the game and how it changes from college to the NFL," Ertz said at the scouting combine. "I'm just looking forward to seeing how that translates ... I was used all over the field at Stanford, in-line and in the slot and out wide. That versatility is going to help me at the next level."

Yes, but NFL teams are also looking for specific scheme fits at what has become a hybrid position. Ertz's tape impresses in many ways, but one is left at times wanting just a bit more in certain aspects.

Pros: Experience in a power-based, pro-style offense. Big target who uses surprising short-area agility to get open in space. Good stalk blocker who will get upfield, push people back, and can get open quickly off blocks. Dynamic yards-after-catch runner who frequently forces more than one defender to take him down. Chips well to get outside quickly on fast passes. High-points the ball in traffic and goes after it with his hands -- snatches the ball as opposed to letting it hit his body.

Very aware player who will change his routes to adapt to quarterbacks moving out of the pocket, and comes back out of coverage to save plays. Excellent underneath receiver who will take advantage of zone and off coverage all day. Physical player off the line who will use his arms to strike and separate from tight coverage. Good sideline and boundary receiver; understands foot placement and will use his height to his advantage. Has a good overall understanding of route concepts.

Cons: Ertz doesn't have the kind of straight-line speed or quick-twitch movement required to consistently get and stay open when running out of the flex position or outside. Needs a few steps to get up to full speed; not an explosive player at all. Can get gummed up by safeties and faster linebackers. Not a practiced or effective inline blocker -- he tends to reach and flail and doesn't plant and drive. Runs drifty routes at times and lacks the ability to cut on a dime. Needs to be tougher over the middle and with potential tacklers converging; will occasionally flinch when opponents drop the hammer.

Sometimes lets his eyes get ahead of the catch -- needs to look the ball in all the way before he turns and runs. Slim-legged player who could benefit from about 10 pounds more muscle. Creates separation with physicality as opposed to agility and won't beat defenders deep on a regular basis. Ran in the high 4.6 range at the combine and at his pro day, but doesn't always match that timed speed on the field.

Conclusion: Clearly, when you watch Zach Ertz and project him to an NFL future, you have to understand that he's not one of the new wave of "big receiver" tight ends who stretch defenses from multiple positions. His relatively slow foot speed and limited agility will push him closer to the line in the NFL, where he can use his size and skill in open spaces. That said, his future is not as definite as it may seem.

Right now, Ertz is a bit of a tweener -- he's not quite physical enough to excel as an inline blocker and pure attribute to the run game, and he will never have the pure seam speed you'd see from Aaron Hernandez or Jimmy Graham. Since it's easier to get bigger than it is to get faster, Ertz would do well to bulk up, work on his blocking, and continue to refine the attributes that make him an outstanding high-volume production player. He's not going to hog any highlight films, but Ertz is the kind of player who, in the right offense and with more development in certain areas, will put up 80-100 catches per season -- and make it look easier than it actually is.

The Jason Witten comparisons common to Ertz seem a bit of a stretch at this point -- Witten is a far more functionally strong player at his best -- but Ertz's ultimate upside would seem to be similar. And with only one full starting season behind him, Ertz may have more NFL upside than others at the tight end position.

NFL Comparison: Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings
 
Dan Kadar @MockingTheDraft

That's not good. RT @James_Dator: Mayock timed Allen at 4.71 and 4.75
ouch! i heard he had a terrible start on both of them but still...

his tape shows more speed than that but i'm sure much will be made of these 40 times.

i've also read that Dr. Andrews says Allen's knee is at 100% his surrounding muscles are at 75%... :shrug:

ETA: i don't think his game really is speed anyway. he's more of a cris carter / fitz receiver in my eyes... he may no longer be picked in the first but top 50? i think so.

 
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Was it really just a PCL injury?

Allen suffered a torn left PCL last October 27. He admitted to a setback before February's Scouting Combine and recently told the Sacramento Bee that he's only about 85 percent. It's been over five months since Allen's injury. His medical status may be a greater concern than the slow forty times.

 
Was it really just a PCL injury?

Allen suffered a torn left PCL last October 27. He admitted to a setback before February's Scouting Combine and recently told the Sacramento Bee that he's only about 85 percent. It's been over five months since Allen's injury. His medical status may be a greater concern than the slow forty times.
The only thing worse would be an ACL, which would have taken much longer to recover from.

 
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap10...ft-eddie-lacy-sits-atop-running-back-rankings

2013 NFL Draft: Eddie Lacy sits atop running back rankings
By Josh Norris

Draft Analyst

With the 2013 NFL Draft set for April 25-27 at Radio City Music Hall in New York, NFL.com draft analyst Josh Norris is identifying the top prospects available at every position. Today, he presents an overview of the best running backs. For a complete list of the rest of the positions, click here.

1. Eddie Lacy, Alabama: Some teams likely have been annoyed with Lacy's pre-draft process, but he will hold a workout for NFL teams on April 11. He has a great blend of size, power and speed to finish off runs and always seems to pick up those extra few yards. Projection: Top 50

2. Giovani Bernard, North Carolina: Bernard made play after play as a runner, receiver and returner. The UNC product's biggest impact initially might be in the passing game. Bernard's short steps and smooth cuts allow him to make defenders miss; however, I wish he could gain a few extra yards after engaging contact. Projection: Second round

3. Andre Ellington, Clemson: The lean runner is at his best behind a slanting line, reading lanes and planting to head upfield on one cut. Ellington has good long speed and sticks close to his blockers, but don't overlook his ability as a willing pass protector. Projection: Second round

4. Johnathan Franklin, UCLA: Admittedly, I wasn't a huge fan of Franklin prior to this season, but my evaluation quickly changed. Like Ellington, Franklin boasts outstanding straight-line speed and great vision to find back-side lanes. And once he gets to the second level, Franklin makes tacklers miss with shifty hips. Projection: Second round

5. Christine Michael, Texas A&M: Perhaps the most naturally talented runner in the entire draft, Michael dealt with injuries and wound up in Kevin Sumlin's doghouse in 2012. On the field, though, there are no issues with Michael's game, as he runs with an aggressive mindset. Projection: Third round

6. Dennis Johnson, Arkansas: Not every runner in this class can be a feature back. Johnson shines on passing downs, showing a lot of comfort in space as a receiver -- his short, choppy steps keep defenders guessing. He does need to fix the fumbling issues. Projection: Fifth round

7. Zac Stacy, Vanderbilt: Like Johnson, Stacy specializes in one thing: beating first contact. There were plenty of runs during which Stacy took the type of backfield hit that would have forced many other runners to take a loss, but Stacy consistently whooped those attempts, refusing to go down. Projection: Fifth round

8. Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina: Lattimore's injury history is obviously cause for concern. Even before his latest ailment, I didn't see the same runner in 2012 as I did in the early portions of 2011, prior to his first injury. He projects best in a decisive, one-cut, zone-blocking scheme that would allow him to get upfield quickly. Projection: Fourth round

9. Montee Ball, Wisconsin: This might sound odd, but Ball actually improved his game in 2012 compared to prior seasons. He wasn't given as much room to operate last season, thanks to less-talented blockers, but Ball's vision allowed him to find alleys and pick up good chunks of yards. Projection: Third round

Follow Josh Norris on Twitter @JoshNorris.
 
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/blog/p...ayers-belie-combine-tests-undefined-positions

NFL Draft: 'Football players' belie combine tests, undefined positions
Pat KirwanNFL Insider

April 9, 2013 12:00 pm ET

One of my favorite coaching/personnel expressions come draft season is, "He's a football player," reserved for the player who doesn't tear up the combine but makes plays.

You don't read about his fast 40 time or bench-press reps, but he gets the job done on the field -- no matter what the tests and measurements say about him.

In other cases, it's just tough to figure out the position where a player works best, but you know he belongs on the roster -- so you figure out the rest later.

And this draft class is no different, possessing a few guys who fit the he's-a-football-player criteria. These guys succeed with smarts, toughness and a passion for the game that trumps the world of the measurable.

When with the Jets, I had a guy named Wayne Chrebet -- a 5-foot-10, 185-pound wideout who wasn't fast -- come to our club the day after the draft. We weren't even sure if we could find him a spot on special teams.

All the gritty Chrebet did was start all 16 games as a rookie, making 66 catches and scoring four touchdowns. Eleven years later he retired with 580 receptions and 41 touchdowns.

Smart teams are looking for the Wayne Chrebets of the world, guys best described as "a football player."

Here are eight guys who may not have all the measurables, but when I watch them play, I see "a football player."

Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford: He ran a 4.91-second 40 at the combine, but he made 78 plays behind the line of scrimmage, has a real knack for finding the ball and plays much faster than his recorded time because he sees the game the right away.

Denard Robinson, QB/WR/RB/CB, Michigan: There still is a lot of discussion about Robinson's best position in the NFL, but I would want this guy on my team because of his heart and athletic ability.

Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State: He was the shortest defensive lineman at the combine, but I watched him at the Senior Bowl for a week, and he plays hard every down. He had 30 plays behind the line of scrimmage at Penn State and will be hard to cut at the end of whatever camp he attends.

Conner Vernon, WR, Duke: Some watches at the combine had him in 4.77, which is way too slow for an NFL wide receiver. One thing: How do you explain his 283 receptions and 21 touchdowns in college? I watched him at the Senior Bowl, and he does what Wayne Chrebet did: gets open in a short area and catches the ball.

Robbie Rouse, RB, Fresno State: Rouse measured in at 5-5 at the combine and ran a 4.8 40. Nothing like a small guy who's slow to scare away NFL people. But his game tapes show you why he's Fresno State's all-time Fresno leading rusher. He finished his career with 4,647 yards and 37 touchdowns on 898 carries. Throw in 109 receptions for 794 yards and five more TDs, and the newest "Pocket Hercules" totaled 5,441 yards and 42 touchdowns.

Stepfan Taylor, RB, Stanford: Taylor ran a 4.77 40 and didn't show much explosion with a 30-inch vertical leap. I got to know him at the Senior Bowl and the versatile back plays like a guy who runs 4.4. He had more than 5,000 all-purpose yards and found the end zone 45 times in college.

Travis Frederick, C, Wisconsin: Frederick ran a 5.6 40 on many watches and only had 21 reps on the bench-press test. The 40 time was one of the combine's slowest, and he was 33rd among the offensive linemen in the bench press. One problem: He's the best center in the draft and strikes with more power than testing indicates. He's a very solid player and will be one of the biggest centers in the NFL.
 
NFL Draft: 'Football players' belie combine tests, undefined positions

Pat KirwanNFL Insider

April 9, 2013 12:00 pm ET

One of my favorite coaching/personnel expressions come draft season is, "He's a football player," reserved for the player who doesn't tear up the combine but makes plays.

You don't read about his fast 40 time or bench-press reps, but he gets the job done on the field -- no matter what the tests and measurements say about him.

In other cases, it's just tough to figure out the position where a player works best, but you know he belongs on the roster -- so you figure out the rest later.

And this draft class is no different, possessing a few guys who fit the he's-a-football-player criteria. These guys succeed with smarts, toughness and a passion for the game that trumps the world of the measurable.

When with the Jets, I had a guy named Wayne Chrebet -- a 5-foot-10, 185-pound wideout who wasn't fast -- come to our club the day after the draft. We weren't even sure if we could find him a spot on special teams.

All the gritty Chrebet did was start all 16 games as a rookie, making 66 catches and scoring four touchdowns. Eleven years later he retired with 580 receptions and 41 touchdowns.

Smart teams are looking for the Wayne Chrebets of the world, guys best described as "a football player."

Here are eight guys who may not have all the measurables, but when I watch them play, I see "a football player."

Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford: He ran a 4.91-second 40 at the combine, but he made 78 plays behind the line of scrimmage, has a real knack for finding the ball and plays much faster than his recorded time because he sees the game the right away.

Denard Robinson, QB/WR/RB/CB, Michigan: There still is a lot of discussion about Robinson's best position in the NFL, but I would want this guy on my team because of his heart and athletic ability.

Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State: He was the shortest defensive lineman at the combine, but I watched him at the Senior Bowl for a week, and he plays hard every down. He had 30 plays behind the line of scrimmage at Penn State and will be hard to cut at the end of whatever camp he attends.

Conner Vernon, WR, Duke: Some watches at the combine had him in 4.77, which is way too slow for an NFL wide receiver. One thing: How do you explain his 283 receptions and 21 touchdowns in college? I watched him at the Senior Bowl, and he does what Wayne Chrebet did: gets open in a short area and catches the ball.

Robbie Rouse, RB, Fresno State: Rouse measured in at 5-5 at the combine and ran a 4.8 40. Nothing like a small guy who's slow to scare away NFL people. But his game tapes show you why he's Fresno State's all-time Fresno leading rusher. He finished his career with 4,647 yards and 37 touchdowns on 898 carries. Throw in 109 receptions for 794 yards and five more TDs, and the newest "Pocket Hercules" totaled 5,441 yards and 42 touchdowns.

Stepfan Taylor, RB, Stanford: Taylor ran a 4.77 40 and didn't show much explosion with a 30-inch vertical leap. I got to know him at the Senior Bowl and the versatile back plays like a guy who runs 4.4. He had more than 5,000 all-purpose yards and found the end zone 45 times in college.

Travis Frederick, C, Wisconsin: Frederick ran a 5.6 40 on many watches and only had 21 reps on the bench-press test. The 40 time was one of the combine's slowest, and he was 33rd among the offensive linemen in the bench press. One problem: He's the best center in the draft and strikes with more power than testing indicates. He's a very solid player and will be one of the biggest centers in the NFL.
I wouldn't say Taylor plays like he runs a 4.4. He has minimal speed and is easily caught from behind by fast players.

However, his phone booth quickness is excellent. He's got that rare lateral bounce to plant in an instant and make people miss. There are guys like Frank Gore, Cedric Benson, and LeSean McCoy thriving in the NFL who were absolutely dreadful in measured drills. I'm not sure Taylor has that kind of potential, but his stock is recovering a little bit in my eyes after taking a step back and weighing his merits against the rest of this shoddy RB class.

 
Robinson's draft stock just got a boost. Per rotoworld.com:
According to NFL.com, doctors now believe that there is no long-term damage in Michigan WR/QB Denard Robinson's ulnar nerve.
Robinson's right (throwing) arm was stepped on back in October, causing the nerve to go dead. He lost feeling in two fingers and then aggravated the injury two weeks later, causing numbness that lasted through most of the offseason scouting process. However, Robinson now reportedly has twice the strength in his right hand as he did at the Combine. The nerve is regenerating.
I wouldn't mind if he slides a bit and the Vikings use a 4th on him. They lost their best kick returner when they traded Harvin. He could start out as a kick returner and eventually be used as a WR in plays originally designed for Harvin.
 
Sigmund Bloom @SigmundBloom

Lance is trying to be tactful RT @LanceZierlein Interviews and learning issues are killing Patterson

Dane Brugler @dpbrugler

Physiclly talented, but mentally? Strong doubts RT @LanceZierlein According to league source, Cordarrelle Patterson may fall out of the 1st
 

2013 NFL Draft: Tavon Austin headlines wide receiver rankings


By Josh Norris

Draft Analyst

With the 2013 NFL Draft set for April 25-27 at Radio City Music Hall in New York, NFL.com draft analyst Josh Norris is identifying the top prospects available at every position. Today, he presents an overview of the best wide receivers. For a complete list of the rest of the positions, click here.

1. Tavon Austin, West Virginia: Austin is the premier playmaker in this class. Electric with the ball in his hands, he is able to make quick cuts, anticipate and use his vision to make oncoming defenders miss, though some will question his size (5-foot-8 1/2). According to West Virginia head coach Dana Holgorsen, Austin never missed a single practice during his collegiate career. Projection: First round

2. Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee: Like Austin, Patterson is a dangerous playmaker who can immediately make things happen with the ball in his hands. He's not overly physical, but the Vol is a smooth runner with great balance. There will be concerns about his incomplete route tree, but Patterson created separation without the explosive cuts. Projection: First round

3. DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson: The most consistent receiver in this class, Hopkins wins by separating with precise routes and is competitive at the catch point thanks to very strong hands. He isn't a burner, but Hopkins has enough long speed to run vertically. Projection: First round

4. Keenan Allen, Cal: Sure, Allen's 40-yard-dash times in the 4.7-second range at his pro day were a bit slower than expected, but speed isn't his game. Allen shows great burst in and out of his breaks while consistently winning at the catch point and showing the toughness to pick up extra yards. His 40 time might lower his draft position, but the talent is still there. Projection: Second round

5. Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech: Patton is extremely smooth, showing the body control and fluid movement to excel on vertical routes and comebacks. He rarely drops a pass he gets both hands on. There's nothing eye-popping about Patton's game, but he will have a long career. Projection: Second round

6. Markus Wheaton, Oregon State: There have been plenty of comparisons made between Wheaton and Mike Wallace; I actually think the Oregon State product is further along in his development than Wallace was coming out of college. Wheaton definitely gets behind coverages, but he also cuts his routes off with burst and works underneath well, too. Projection: Second round

7. Robert Woods, USC: Perhaps the second-best slot receiver in this class after Austin, Woods can dominate in the short-to-intermediate game, though he should not be overlooked on downfield shots, either. As long as his ankle stays healthy, Woods will be productive. Projection: Second round

8. Stedman Bailey, West Virginia: Bailey is not as flashy as his Mountaineer teammate Austin, but he always came through when Geno Smith needed him most. He thrives in the red zone and creates slivers of separation at the catch point. Projection: Second round

9. Justin Hunter, Tennessee: Hunter has all of the upside boxes checked. After he suffered a season-ending knee injury in 2011, I expected the Tennessee product to face physical setbacks. Instead, we saw way too many mental lapses in the form of drops. But Hunter has the length and agility to be an impact target. Projection: Second round

Follow Josh Norris on Twitter @JoshNorris.

 
Sigmund Bloom @SigmundBloomLance is trying to be tactful RT @LanceZierlein Interviews and learning issues are killing PattersonDane Brugler @dpbruglerPhysiclly talented, but mentally? Strong doubts RT @LanceZierlein According to league source, Cordarrelle Patterson may fall out of the 1st
I recall that Green Bay was concerned about Javon Walker ability to understand the play book after he scored a 7 on the wonderlic. Apparently Walker was bright but had ADD. Does Patterson have a similar problem?

 

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