Mike Mayock's position rankings for 2014 NFL Draft (1 Viewer)

[Faust]

Mike Mayock's position rankings for 2014 NFL Draft

By Mike Mayock

NFL Media draft analyst

With the NFL Scouting Combine beginning on Feb. 22, Mike Mayock unveils the first of his position-by-position rankings for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Quarterback

1. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
2. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
3. Blake Bortles, Central Florida
4. Derek Carr, Fresno State
5. AJ McCarron, Alabama

Running back
1. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State
2. Jeremy Hill, LSU
3. Bishop Sankey, Washington
4. Andre Williams, Boston College
5. Tre Mason, Auburn

Wide receiver
1. Sammy Watkins, Clemson
2. Marqise Lee, USC
3. Mike Evans, Texas A&M
4. Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State
5. Jarvis Landry, LSU

Tight end
1. Eric Ebron, North Carolina
2. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
3. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
4. Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
5. C.J. Fiedorowicz, Iowa

Center
1. Marcus Martin, USC
2. Weston Richburg, Colorado State
3. Travis Swanson, Arkansas
4. Bryan Stork, Florida State
5. Gabe Ikard, Oklahoma

Guard
1. David Yankey, Stanford
2. Xavier Su'a-Filo, UCLA
3. Gabe Jackson, Mississippi State
4. Chris Watt, Notre Dame
5. Cyril Richardson, Baylor

Offensive tackle
1. Jake Matthews, Texas A&M
2. Greg Robinson, Auburn
3. Taylor Lewan, Michigan
4. Zack Martin, Notre Dame
5. Cyrus Kouandjio, Alabama

Defensive tackle
1. Louis Nix, Notre Dame
2. Timmy Jernigan, Florida State
3. Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh
4. Ra'Shede Hageman, Minnesota
5. Dominique Easley, Florida

Defensive end
1. Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina
2. Kony Ealy, Missouri
3. Dee Ford, Auburn
4. Scott Crichton, Oregon State
5. Trent Murphy, Stanford

Linebacker
1. Khalil Mack, Buffalo
2. C.J. Mosley, Alabama
3. Anthony Barr, UCLA
4. Chris Borland, Wisconsin
5. Ryan Shazier, Ohio State

Cornerback
1. Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State
2. Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State
3. Kyle Fuller, Virginia Tech
4. Jason Verrett, TCU
5. Bradley Roby, Ohio State

Safety
1. Calvin Pryor, Louisville
2. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Alabama
3. Lamarcus Joyner, Florida State
4. Jimmie Ward, Northern Illinois
5. Deone Bucannon, Washington State

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Teddy Bridgewater tops QB prospectsBy Chase Goodbread

College Football 24/7 writer

Five notables from NFL Media analyst Mike Mayock's initial position-by-position prospect rankings:

1. Bridgewater over Manziel

The debate over which quarterback is the best among Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel and Central Florida's Blake Bortles has advocates on all three sides. Mayock, at least entering the NFL Scouting Combine this week, prefers Bridgewater. NFL Media analyst Bucky Brooks sees it the same way. For Mayock, Fresno State's Derek Carr and Alabama's AJ McCarron round out the top five. It's unclear whether any of Mayock's top five will throw at the combine, except Manziel, whose agent made it known he will not throw. If none of the five throw in Indianapolis, tough to imagine Mayock's second, post-combine rendition of the rankings looking any different at this position.

2. Richburg rates high

Colorado State center Weston Richburg has a strong Reese's Senior Bowl effort, and Mayock clearly took notice. After No. 1-rated center Marcus Martin, Mayock's next four highest-rated centers all competed at the Senior Bowl: Richburg, Arkansas' Travis Swanson, FSU's Bryan Stork and Oklahoma's Gabe Ikard. Mayock ranks Richburg just behind Martin at No. 2.

3. Richardson ranks as fifth guard

In the fall, there was speculation that Mississippi State's Gabe Jackson and Baylor's Cyril Richardson would be the first two offensive guards chosen in the draft, in one order or another. Mayock ranked two others -- Stanford's David Yankey and UCLA's Xavier Su'a-Filo -- as the top two at the position. He's got Richardson ranked No. 5 at the position, which doesn't guarantee much where draft position is concerned. The fifth guard chosen in last year's draft, Kent State's Brian Winters to the New York Jets, didn't hear his name called until day two.

4. Borland in good company

Don't tell Mayock about Wisconsin linebacker Chris Borland's height and measurables being a concern. Another Senior Bowl standout, Borland ranked fourth for Mayock at the linebacker position behind three -- Buffalo's Khalil Mack, Alabama's C.J. Mosley and UCLA's Anthony Barr -- who are first-round picks by any credible estimation. The Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (5-11, 245 pounds) plays downhill football against the run, and brings outstanding instincts and aggressiveness to the position.

5. Pryor over Clinton-Dix

Louisville's Calvin Pryor and Alabama's Ha Ha Clinton-Dix are regarded as the two most likely safeties to be drafted in the first round, although projections seem to be split on which of the two will be chosen first. Mayock has Pryor on top of the safety listing, followed by Clinton-Dix and Florida State's Lamarcus Joyner.

Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter @ChaseGoodbread

 

[Faust]

Ka'Deem Carey absent from the Top 5 RB list.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Of the DE's and the OLB's which ones best suit the rush OLB in a 3-4?

 

[Faust]

Seastrunk also absent from the Top 5 RB list.

 

[voiceofunreason]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

 

[ShaHBucks]

Same #### over and over. Hundreds of analyst supposedly break down a ton of game tape and they all have the same opinion on the top 5-10? Funny business to be in.

 

[False Start]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

Dude is good and cranked out carry after carry so he is durable, was up for the Heisman. How is it embarrassing to think he is in the Top 5?

 

[Nero]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

Dude is good and cranked out carry after carry so he is durable, was up for the Heisman. How is it embarrassing to think he is in the Top 5?

Embarrassing is probably too strong. Maybe lazy is better. Just seems as though he just looked at the stats and put him top 5.

 

[Bronco Billy]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

Dude is good and cranked out carry after carry so he is durable, was up for the Heisman. How is it embarrassing to think he is in the Top 5?

Embarrassing is probably too strong. Maybe lazy is better. Just seems as though he just looked at the stats and put him top 5.

Or perhaps has a different opinion than you?

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Same #### over and over. Hundreds of analyst supposedly break down a ton of game tape and they all have the same opinion on the top 5-10? Funny business to be in.

 

[False Start]

What did Mayock have Kaep or Wilson or better yet, Brady when he came out. These guys barely know more than any of us now and days.

 

[Terpman22]

Well. He had Sanchez his #1 QB in 2009 and Shady McCoy ranked #4, right above Shonn Greene. If you need to know more than that, let me know.

 

[coolnerd]

If Mayock would have put Storm Johnson and Terrance West in his top five, there would have been posters claiming that he was just doing to show off that he knows lower level names and to get people to talk about the uniqueness of his mock draft. Damned if he has boring names damned if he has not as familiar ones. There is this chance that he is evaluting these dudes the best that he can and if nothing amazingly diferent from other draftsperts comes out, that is what happens.

 

[Nero]

If Mayock would have put Storm Johnson and Terrance West in his top five, there would have been posters claiming that he was just doing to show off that he knows lower level names and to get people to talk about the uniqueness of his mock draft. Damned if he has boring names damned if he has not as familiar ones. There is this chance that he is evaluting these dudes the best that he can and if nothing amazingly diferent from other draftsperts comes out, that is what happens.

I think just the opposite. He would have had to have some conviction to put one of them top 5. In which case, I'd be more confident he watched tons of film on them. I don't have access to enough video to give a fair assessment of Terrance West. I confidently have Storm Johnson outside of the top 5.Most the analyst give a safe top 5 based on stats. If guy fails, their cred doesn't take a hit, because "everybody" was on them.

 

[Faust]

Twitter is very active right now with information from Mayock's Conference Call:

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock on conference call: This is deepest and best draft class I've seen in 10 years.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Manziel looks like combination of Doug Flutie and Fran Tarkenton.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock on Manziel: He doesn't like being confined. The more he was in the pocket, the more frustrated he got.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: I believe in Manziel. Team will have to live with negative plays, though.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock mentions Bishop Sankey, Marqise Lee and Colt Lyerla among players he's most interested to see at combine.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Eric Ebron is a top-10 pick to me.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Mike Evans and Marqise Lee should be picked in 10-20 range.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Teddy Bridgewater is most NFL-ready QB in the draft.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Jace Amaro, Ra'Shede Hageman could be available/make sense for @Patriots in 1st round.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Michael Sam a tweener. Should go between third- to fifth-round.

 

[Faust]

More from Mayock's Conference call on Twitter:

legeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Clowney has physical makeup to be best player in draft. Better player w/ more upside than Mario Williams had as prospect.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: My concern with Clowney is his mental makeup. ... Will he be happy to just be a millionaire?

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Won't be surprised if @nyjets pick more than 1 WR this year.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Bridgewater not as much of a wild card as Manziel and more developed in reads than Bortles.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: @NDFootball's Troy Niklas could be best blocking TE in @nfl in a few years. Likely a 2nd-round pick.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: @FSAthletics' Derek Carr fits into the end of the 1st round.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Bridgewater, Manziel, Bortles locked in as draft's top 3 QBs.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: In a perfect world, you'd have fewer underclassmen entering draft, but it has helped 1st-round talent pool.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: @ClemsonTigers' Sammy Watkins is special player. Usually don't get excited about drafting a WR in top 10. He's different.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: One of my favorite players in draft is LSU's Jarvis Landry. Reminds me a little bit of Hines Ward.

 

[Faust]

Continued:

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: If @HoustonTexans pair Clowney w/ Watt, would be awesome + mirror what @Seahawks have done in loading up on pass rushers.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: The more tape I watch of Bridgewater, Manziel and Bortles, the more questions I have. I could pick apart all 3 of them.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Bridgewater and Bortles could both be good QBs, but not ready to say either will be All-Pro QB.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: If I'm GM of #Texans, I'm trying to get comfortable with one of these QBs. I'm intrigued by Manziel.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Colt Lyerla a 1st- or 2nd-round talent. Would guess, because of character concerns, he'll get picked on 3rd day of draft.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Derek Carr not a Pro Bowl-type starter in @NFL, but he'll be a competent starter.

 

[Faust]

Twitter:

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: If Carlos Hyde goes in 1st round, won't surprise me. With RB position being devalued, he probably goes in 2nd.

 

[coolnerd]

If Mayock would have put Storm Johnson and Terrance West in his top five, there would have been posters claiming that he was just doing to show off that he knows lower level names and to get people to talk about the uniqueness of his mock draft. Damned if he has boring names damned if he has not as familiar ones. There is this chance that he is evaluting these dudes the best that he can and if nothing amazingly diferent from other draftsperts comes out, that is what happens.

I think just the opposite. He would have had to have some conviction to put one of them top 5. In which case, I'd be more confident he watched tons of film on them. I don't have access to enough video to give a fair assessment of Terrance West. I confidently have Storm Johnson outside of the top 5.Most the analyst give a safe top 5 based on stats. If guy fails, their cred doesn't take a hit, because "everybody" was on them.

Basically because Mayock did not come up with something to "wow" everybody, you are being negative on his process (whatever it is). Assuming (which i am) his process is honest, there does not have to be some outliner from the rest of draftnik world. Having a so-called different ranking alone does not make it a better or more honest effort on his part.

 

[voiceofunreason]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

Dude is good and cranked out carry after carry so he is durable, was up for the Heisman. How is it embarrassing to think he is in the Top 5?

Yeah, he was good in college (and even then he struggled against good college teams). He looks like an udfa to me.

 

[Faust]

Final few:

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: Jimmy Garappolo helped himself at @Shrine_Game + @seniorbowl. Went from mid-to-late round question mark to 2nd or 3rd rounder.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock: I root for @NIUAthletics' Jordan Lynch. I like his attitude. Hope he gets shot at QB.

CollegeFootball 24/7 ‏@NFL_CFB

Mayock conference call over after 2 hours and 40 minutes. Incredible display of endurance by the draft expert.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

If Mayock would have put Storm Johnson and Terrance West in his top five, there would have been posters claiming that he was just doing to show off that he knows lower level names and to get people to talk about the uniqueness of his mock draft. Damned if he has boring names damned if he has not as familiar ones. There is this chance that he is evaluting these dudes the best that he can and if nothing amazingly diferent from other draftsperts comes out, that is what happens.

I think just the opposite. He would have had to have some conviction to put one of them top 5. In which case, I'd be more confident he watched tons of film on them. I don't have access to enough video to give a fair assessment of Terrance West. I confidently have Storm Johnson outside of the top 5.Most the analyst give a safe top 5 based on stats. If guy fails, their cred doesn't take a hit, because "everybody" was on them.

Basically because Mayock did not come up with something to "wow" everybody, you are being negative on his process (whatever it is). Assuming (which i am) his process is honest, there does not have to be some outliner from the rest of draftnik world. Having a so-called different ranking alone does not make it a better or more honest effort on his part.

I didnt take what spurred this conversation as a direct knock on Mayock, but a knock on these draft rankings as a whole. It is a pretty solid point IMO.

This was the quote:

Same #### over and over. Hundreds of analyst supposedly break down a ton of game tape and they all have the same opinion on the top 5-10? Funny business to be in.

 

[coolnerd]

If Mayock would have put Storm Johnson and Terrance West in his top five, there would have been posters claiming that he was just doing to show off that he knows lower level names and to get people to talk about the uniqueness of his mock draft. Damned if he has boring names damned if he has not as familiar ones. There is this chance that he is evaluting these dudes the best that he can and if nothing amazingly diferent from other draftsperts comes out, that is what happens.

I think just the opposite. He would have had to have some conviction to put one of them top 5. In which case, I'd be more confident he watched tons of film on them. I don't have access to enough video to give a fair assessment of Terrance West. I confidently have Storm Johnson outside of the top 5.Most the analyst give a safe top 5 based on stats. If guy fails, their cred doesn't take a hit, because "everybody" was on them.

Basically because Mayock did not come up with something to "wow" everybody, you are being negative on his process (whatever it is). Assuming (which i am) his process is honest, there does not have to be some outliner from the rest of draftnik world. Having a so-called different ranking alone does not make it a better or more honest effort on his part.

I didnt take what spurred this conversation as a direct knock on Mayock, but a knock on these draft rankings as a whole. It is a pretty solid point IMO.

This was the quote:

Same #### over and over. Hundreds of analyst supposedly break down a ton of game tape and they all have the same opinion on the top 5-10? Funny business to be in.

Fair enough ...I must have misread

 

[Faust]

Mayock: 18 takeaways on draft prospects entering combine

 

[werdnoynek]

Threw this in the other thread but may as well throw it in the Mayock thread - transcript of the conference call today.

http://nflcommunications.com/2014/02/18/transcript-of-nfl-network-analyst-mike-mayocks-2014-nfl-scouting-combine-conference-call-tuesday-february-18/

 

[Xue]

These TV guys spend more time on NFL work than prospect work. I don't put too much value in their opinions. The only thing I care to listen from Mayock is his thoughts on DBs.

 

[False Start]

Nothing really shocks me except Andre Williams. That's pretty embarrassing imo.

Dude is good and cranked out carry after carry so he is durable, was up for the Heisman. How is it embarrassing to think he is in the Top 5?

Yeah, he was good in college (and even then he struggled against good college teams). He looks like an udfa to me.

Have to be honest, thats a pretty embarrassing assessment. Undrafted FA huh? Maybe if you ran all 32 teams but hopefully some others who are professional can see the talent. Williams put up 28 carries for 129 yards vs FSU seems like a pretty good team, didn't they win the National Championship? Williams had five games over 200 and one over 300 yards so I see how some people think that deserves to be undrafted.

2013 Highlight package: http://youtu.be/Ujt1S9P2XHE I especially like the stiff arm at 1:20

 

[Faust]

Mike Mayock: Playing draft matchmaker for 19 NFL teams

 

[MAC_32]

These TV guys spend more time on NFL work than prospect work. I don't put too much value in their opinions. The only thing I care to listen from Mayock is his thoughts on DBs.

he is stretched too thin now. His analysis is still top notch, but he works too much during the season to watch any tape.mi have no doubt he has watched tape non stop for a month, but there is not enough time to truly generate a comprehensive ranking in that time.

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Eric Ebron better TE prospect than 49ers' Vernon Davis

 

[Faust]

Mayock takeaways: Jadeveon Clowney might not go in top five

By Mike Huguenin

College Football 24/7 writer

NFL Media draft analyst Mike Mayock was busy Saturday on the NFL Network at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Here are some takeaways from the great one:

'Red flags' around ClowneySouth Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney doesn't work out until Monday, and while Mayock praised his talent -- Clowney has the potential to be "the most dominant player in the league," Mayock said -- he also is not sold on Clowney. Mayock reiterated that he would take Buffalo outside linebacker Khalil Mack ahead of Clowney and openly questioned Clowney's intensity level. "I think there are red flags there" in regard to Clowney's work ethic, Mayock said. He also said it was possible Clowney does not go in the top five picks.

Offensive tackle class a great oneMayock said each of the top three tackles -- Michigan's Taylor Lewan, Texas A&M's Jake Matthews and Auburn's Greg Robinson -- is "big, strong, fast, highly athletic." He also said "the first three tackles put on a show today." Mayock seems to like Robinson the best and raved about his Saturday workouts, which included a 4.92 clocking in the 40-yard dash at 332 pounds. "He's saying, 'You know what, I am your top tackle,'" Mayock said of Robinson. He said Robinson has the highest ceiling of any offensive lineman in the draft. "I was highly impressed with him," Mayock said. Lewan, who is 6-7, had the fastest 40 time among the linemen (4.87 seconds) and also the best broad jump (9 feet, 9 inches).

Sam a 3rd- to 5th-rounderMissouri defensive end Michael Sam is another who won't work out until Monday, but Mayock and NFL Network host Rich Eisen were complimentary of Sam's news conference performance Saturday. Mayock was asked to discuss the X's and O's on Sam. "He's explosive and quick off the edge," Mayock said, but he has tweener size and lacks a linebacker skill set. Mayock said Sam fits as "a situational pass rusher and a core special-teamer" who should be drafted between the third and fifth rounds. NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah said Sam is "somebody you can count on on third down" and compared him to Philadelphia's Trent Cole.

Tight ends disappointMayock said he was disappointed in the showing by Texas Tech tight end Jace Amaro, who impressed onlookers with his bench press showing Friday but had a slower-than-expected time of 4.74 in the 40. Mayock said he thought Amaro would clock in the 4.55 range. He also noted that Amaro dropped some passes in drills and said, "I have to go back and look at my tape" of Amaro from the 2013 season.

Actually, Amaro's day sort of epitomized the day for all the tight ends: Mayock said he was disappointed in his four top tight ends. Amaro was slow and showed iffy hands. Ebron didn't run as fast as expected and missed most of the drills. Washington's Austin Seferian-Jenkins has a foot issue and didn't participate in any of the drills, Notre Dame's Troy Niklas reportedly was just "80 percent" and didn't run the 40, though he did do the on-field drills. Oregon's Colt Lyerla is a fringe prospect because of his numerous off-field issues, but he was thought to be a great athlete. He was disappointing, too, Mayock said: "I thought he would make a bigger statement today." Mayock said the position as a whole is "really good up top" but lacks depth.

Ebron has high ceilingNorth Carolina tight end Eric Ebron didn't run as fast as he expected in the 40-yard dash, but he still had a 4.60 clocking, second-fastest among the tight ends. While Mayock was disappointed in that clocking -- he, like Ebron, expected around a 4.50 -- early in the day he had said Ebron is a "more complete football player" than San Francisco tight end Vernon Davis at the same stage of their careers. Ebron didn't participate in any of the drills because of a minor injury, and Mayock said Ebron's pro day would take on added significance now. Davis was a top-10 pick in 2006, and near the end of Saturday's telecast, Mayock said, "I don't think we're going to see a tight end in the top 10" this year.

Questions about KouandjioAlabama offensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio (6-7, 322) is massive, has a high ceiling and is considered a likely first-rounder. He can be particularly dominant as a run blocker. "He's got all kinds of talent," Mayock said. But he also has what Mayock called "inconsistent tape" and didn't show all that well Saturday. He struggled in the so-called "mirror drill," and his best 40 time was a 5.59-second clocking, with his best 10-yard split an unofficial 1.87 seconds. "He ran a slow 10, and he ran a really slow 40," Mayock said, and for a potential first-rounder, "that's a red flag." Later, Mayock said, "You certainly want a starting left tackle to run better than that." There are some analysts who feel Kouandjio is a better fit on the right side in the NFL.

Henderson inconsistentMiami tackle Seantrel Henderson has incredible athletic gifts, especially for a guy who measures 6-7 and 331 pounds. He is mammoth and has a huge wingspan and excellent coordination. But he also had a checkered college career, including three suspensions, and has admitted issues with marijuana. And while he is a prototype left tackle, he couldn't handle that role at Miami and instead played mostly on the right side. Henderson flashed some of his athleticism Saturday, running the 40-yard dash in 5.01 seconds, including a 10-yard split of 1.71 seconds. (And remember those times were turned in by a guy who is 6-7 and 331 pounds.) Mayock said Henderson has "first-round talent," but he also said Henderson has "a lack of consistency both on and off the field" and could go anywhere from the second to the seventh round.

Versatility a selling point for Irish's MartinMayock is the color analyst on Notre Dame games during the season, and he has seen a lot of Irish offensive tackle Zack Martin. He obviously thinks highly of Martin: "I think he can start at all five positions on the offensive line." Some teams like Martin best at guard, and Mayock said if he were ranking Martin as a guard, "I would have him as my No. 1 guard." (UCLA's Xavier Su'a-Filo currently is Mayock's No. 1 guard.) Mayock also called Martin "a top-20 pick."

Nevada's Bitonio 'a hidden gem'Mayock didn't hide his appreciation for Nevada offensive tackle Joel Bitonio (6-4, 302). Mayock called Bitonio "a hidden gem" and said he could be a second-round pick and an NFL starter. Bitonio played on the left side for the Wolf Pack, but there are some NFL teams who think he is a better fit on the right side or even at guard. Mayock isn't so sure: "I'd make him prove he can't play on the left side (at tackle) first" before any potential move. Bitonio tied for the fourth-fastest 40 time among the linemen, with a 4.97 clocking. Bitonio also had a broad jump of 9 feet, 6 inches, second-best among linemen. Mayock said, "He ran well and he did extremely well in the drills."

Hokies' Thomas is intriguingMayock said he was looking forward to seeing Virginia Tech quarterback Logan Thomas' workouts Sunday. From a physical standpoint, "he's everything you want in a quarterback," Mayock said. Alas, as Mayock pointed out, there is a lot of bad tape from Thomas in his time with the Hokies.

Mike Huguenin can be reached at mike.huguenin@nfl.com. You also can follow him on Twitter @MikeHuguenin.

 

[Donnybrook]

Threw this in the other thread but may as well throw it in the Mayock thread - transcript of the conference call today.

http://nflcommunications.com/2014/02/18/transcript-of-nfl-network-analyst-mike-mayocks-2014-nfl-scouting-combine-conference-call-tuesday-february-18/

From the link above: Mayock said "[Austin] Seferian Jenkins, for lack of a better term, is built like [Rob] Gronkowski whereas [Jace] Amaro from Texas Tech is built more like [Aaron] Hernandez."

No wonder Mayock was disappointed in Amaro 40 time. He thinks he is 6'1" 245.

 

[Bob Magaw]

These TV guys spend more time on NFL work than prospect work. I don't put too much value in their opinions. The only thing I care to listen from Mayock is his thoughts on DBs.

he is stretched too thin now. His analysis is still top notch, but he works too much during the season to watch any tape.mi have no doubt he has watched tape non stop for a month, but there is not enough time to truly generate a comprehensive ranking in that time.

Agreed.

His father was a coach, and he played in the NFL briefly. He thinks analytically like a scout, and he has command of a lot of historical personnel information, as well as coaches and schemes around the league. He covers OL and defense, too, not just fantasy offense positions. Knows his stuff.

Some people point to high profile misses like Gabbert, but Ted Williams didn't bat 1.000.

 

[DropKick]

Same #### over and over. Hundreds of analyst supposedly break down a ton of game tape and they all have the same opinion on the top 5-10? Funny business to be in.

The "business" is based on consumers that want the information - the NFL/fantasy community. Demand dictates the supply...

As far as "quality" of assessments... I think there are incredible number of variables in evaluating players. Start with the fact that people are different. Some "God gifted" individuals take it for granted and just don't seem to work as hard (Randy Moss as an extreme example?) Others just have a character that drives effort and commitment to the game (Peyton Manning?). And people change/develop over time.. what will money do to a kid's behavior? How will a player's performance change if he adds 15 pounds to his frame? Can he play through injury? How will he perform on a big stage? Can a QB (or any player) adjust to the speed, physicality and extended season?

College programs vary by supporting cast, competition level and team philosophy. A talented kid can be lost in a program or stuck behind an upper classmen for a year or two... Or a nagging injury could keep them from their full potential... Or a question of ball control.... or attitude... even perceived attitude.

You can weigh and measure someone, observe their athletic performance (40 times, etc.) but you its much harder to measure heart and "on the field" ability.

 

[Faust]

Mayock takeaways: Manziel, Bortles draw mixed reviews

By Mike Huguenin

College Football 24/7 writer

NFL Media draft analyst Mike Mayock had a busy Sunday -- almost nine on-air hours -- on NFL Network reporting from the NFL Scouting Combine. Here are 10 takeaways from Mayock:

1. Manziel's pocket play a concernMayock loves Texas A&M's quarterback Johnny Manziel's "innate feel" for the game, but he also wonders about Manziel's pocket presence in the NFL. Mayock said he "sees [Doug] Flutie and [Fran] Tarkenton" when watching Manziel tape, and Mayock said Manziel has a definite "wow factor."

But Mayock questions Manziel's accuracy and decision-making when he is in the pocket. Manziel might be at his best when he can improvise, but Manziel struggled in losses to LSU and Missouri because those teams kept him in the pocket. Mayock said Mizzou and LSU "set a cage up, set a fence" and kept Manziel from improvising. He said NFL defenses would try to do the same.

2. Bortles fits TexansMayock said he thought UCF's Blake Bortles was "a franchise quarterback" and "fits what [Houston Texans coach] Bill O'Brien likes" in his quarterbacks. But Bortles has some issues, Mayock said. The biggest negative is "inconsistent ball location, especially on deep routes." NFL Network analyst Brian Billick said of Bortles, "I don't see any negatives. ... With every exposure I get of this guy, I get more impressed."

3. Bridgewater 'most NFL-ready'Mayock said Louisville's Teddy Bridgewater is the "most NFL-ready" quarterback in the draft. "I think Bortles can be ready shortly thereafter," he said. Mayock said there are durability issues related to Bridgewater's frame. But he also said Bridgewater can do all the necessary things from under center and in the shotgun. Mayock also said Bridgewater should appeal to the Houston Texans, who have the No. 1 pick in the draft. He said new Texans coach Bill O'Brien's background was with "old-school, traditional quarterbacks," and Bridgewater fits that mold.

4. Evans 'a top-15 pick'Texas A&M wide receiver Mike Evans, who is 6-foot-5 and 231, had a 4.53 clocking, and "that's fine" for a guy his size, Mayock said. Mayock is high on Evans, though he says Evans must become a better route runner. "He is going to have to learn how to create separation with his body," Mayock said. Still, Mayock says he is "a top-15 pick in today's NFL." Evans also had a 37-inch vertical jump.

5. Oregon State WR stands outOregon State's Brandin Cooks had the fastest clocking among the wide receivers, at 4.33 seconds. Mayock said Cooks is "one of my favorite players," has "fantastic hands" and that he should go late in the first round or early in the second. "This kid's special with the ball in his hands," Mayock said.

6. Landry, Robinson disappointTwo of the top 10 or so wide receivers are LSU's Jarvis Landry and Penn State's Allen Robinson. Neither ran that well. Landry clocked a 4.77 on his first attempt, then bypassed his second run with a minor calf injury. Robinson's best time was a 4.60. "Those are numbers that have to get better for both guys at their pro days," Mayock said. Mayock also said of Landry, "I'm not getting off that kid; I still like him a lot."

7. No RB in 1st round

Mayock's top running back is Ohio State's Carlos Hyde, but Hyde pulled a hamstring in his first 40-yard dash attempt and missed the rest of the day. Arizona's Ka'Deem Carey -- who led the nation in rushing in 2012 and was second in 2013 -- isn't in Mayock's top five among running backs. "He does a lot of things well ⦠but doesn't have one outstanding trait," Mayock said. He said he thought Carey would go in the second or third round. Mayock isn't overly enthusiastic about any running back, saying he doesn't foresee one going in the first round. No running back went in the first round in 2012, either. He likes the running ability of Auburn's Tre Mason but said Mason "hasn't blocked anybody yet." Mayock also likes Boston College's Andre Williams, who led the nation in rushing, but said his receiving ability -- or inability -- is a concern, noting Williams had zero receptions in 2013. "He's not a natural" as a receiver, Mayock said, "and that has to be taken into consideration" when you evaluate Williams' draft stock.

8. Hokies' Thomas a 'wild card'Mayock said Virginia Tech quarterback Logan Thomas -- who measured at 6-6 and 248 pounds -- is a "wild card" in the draft. "He is all over the place during his games from an accuracy standpoint," Mayock said. But Mayock also raved about Thomas' athleticism and his arm strength; Thomas led all quarterbacks in the 40 (4.61), board jump (9 feet, 10 inches) and vertical jump (35.5 inches). Mayock said "his tape is so bad for the most part" that he could see him going as late as the sixth round. "If you could figure out Logan Thomas, he has starting quarterback credentials," Mayock said. NFL Network analyst Steve Mariucci definitely is intrigued by Thomas' potential: "He would be a fun project to coach." Mariucci said he could see Thomas going in the middle rounds.

9. McCarron's differentAlabama's AJ McCarron is Mayock's No. 5 quarterback. A knock against McCarron from some is that he is a game manager, but Mayock doesn't buy that designation. "He's got a live arm," Mayock said. "Don't lump him in with those other [recent] Alabama quarterbacks."

10. Archer's pro comparisonMayock called Kent State running back Dri Archer -- who had a 4.26-second clocking in the 40-yard dash, the fastest of the combine so far -- "an Ace Sanders-kind of guy." Sanders had 51 receptions and was an effective punt returner for the Jacksonville Jaguars as a rookie in 2013. Because of his size (5-8, 173), Archer obviously can't be an every-down back in the NFL and might fit best in the slot. Archer is faster than Sanders, but not as thick. Coincidentally, the two grew up about 45 minutes form each other -- Sanders in Bradenton, Fla., and Archer in Venice, Fla. NFL Network analyst LaDainian Tomlinson said he doesn't put that much stock into 40 times. "Football speed is different" than track speed, he said. Fellow analyst Marshall Faulk said 40 times are useful with the so-called "home-run hitters" among the backs. Faulk also said that the first 10-yard split, which is not made public, is "huge" for running backs. That shows how quickly a back can get up on a safety, Faulk said.

Mike Huguenin can be reached at mike.huguenin@nfl.com. You also can follow him on Twitter @MikeHuguenin.

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Pitt's Donald just as impressive as Clowney at combine

 

[Kenny Powers]

Surprised no one has mentioned how Clinton-Dix is not Mayock's top safety. Whats the deal there?

 

[MAC_32]

Surprised no one has mentioned how Clinton-Dix is not Mayock's top safety. Whats the deal there?

havent seen much Pryor?

 

[Kenny Powers]

Surprised no one has mentioned how Clinton-Dix is not Mayock's top safety. Whats the deal there?

havent seen much Pryor?

No, and it seemed like everyone was saying there was no safety close to Dix.

 

[Faust]

Surprised no one has mentioned how Clinton-Dix is not Mayock's top safety. Whats the deal there?

There is no safety with Clinton-Dix, just ask Monica Lewinsky if you don't believe me!

 

[MAC_32]

Surprised no one has mentioned how Clinton-Dix is not Mayock's top safety. Whats the deal there?

havent seen much Pryor?

No, and it seemed like everyone was saying there was no safety close to Dix.

i guess not enough watched him then, both are top 15 talents in a normal draft...maybe not this year though.

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Gilbert lives up to billing, Pryor similar to Bob Sanders

 

[Faust]

Mike Mayock's updated position rankings for 2014 NFL Draft

By Mike Mayock

NFL Media draft analyst

Excerpt:

» Mayock's pre-combine rankings

With the NFL Scouting Combine in the rearview mirror, Mike Mayock unveils the second edition of his position-by-position draft prospect rankings for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Quarterback

1. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
2. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
3. Blake Bortles, Central Florida
4. Derek Carr, Fresno State
t5. AJ McCarron, Alabama
t5. Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois

New entry: Garoppolo

Running back
1. Bishop Sankey, Washington
2. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State
3. Jeremy Hill, LSU
4. Andre Williams, Boston College
5. Tre Mason, Auburn

Rise: Sankey (3)
Fall: Hyde (1), Hill (2)

Wide receiver
1. Sammy Watkins, Clemson
2. Mike Evans, Texas A&M
3. Marqise Lee, USC
4. Brandin Cooks, Oregon State
t5. Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State
t5. Jarvis Landry, LSU
t5. Odell Beckham, LSU

Rise: Evans (3)
Fall: Lee (2), Benjamin (4)
New entry: Cooks, Beckham

Tight end
1. Eric Ebron, North Carolina
2. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
3. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
4. Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
5. C.J. Fiedorowicz, Iowa

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Pitt's Aaron Donald now is No. 1 DT in the draft

 

[Faust]

Video Links:

Mike Mayock weighs in on Khalil Mack's pro day Mike Mayock: Auburn's pro day wrap-up

 

[Faust]

Mike Mayock offers high praise for Clemson's Sammy Watkins

 

[Faust]

Mayock: Ohio State's Hyde, Shazier solidify first-round status

 

[Faust]

Updated again today:

Mike Mayock's updated position rankings for 2014 NFL DraftBy Mike Mayock

NFL Media draft analyst

» Mayock's pre-combine rankings | Post-combine rankings

With the pro-day circuit nearing completion, Mike Mayock unveils the third edition of his position-by-position draft prospect rankings for the 2014 NFL Draft.

Quarterback
1. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
2. Blake Bortles, Central Florida
3. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville
4. Derek Carr, Fresno State
t5. AJ McCarron, Alabama
t5. Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois

Rise: Manziel (2), Bortles (3)
Fall: Bridgewater (1)

Running back
1. Bishop Sankey, Washington
2. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State
3. Jeremy Hill, LSU
4. Tre Mason, Auburn
5. Andre Williams, Boston College

Rise: Mason (5)
Fall: Williams (4)

Wide receiver
1. Sammy Watkins, Clemson
2. Mike Evans, Texas A&M
3. Marqise Lee, USC
4. Brandin Cooks, Oregon State
t5. Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State
t5. Jarvis Landry, LSU
t5. Odell Beckham, LSU

Tight end
1. Eric Ebron, North Carolina
2. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
3. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
4. Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
5. C.J. Fiedorowicz, Iowa

Center
1. Marcus Martin, USC
2. Weston Richburg, Colorado State
3. Travis Swanson, Arkansas
4. Bryan Stork, Florida State
5. Gabe Ikard, Oklahoma

Guard
1. David Yankey, Stanford
2. Xavier Su'a-Filo, UCLA
3. Brandon Thomas, Clemson
4. Trai Turner, LSU
5. Gabe Jackson, Mississippi State

New entry: Thomas
Rise: Turner (5)
Fall: Jackson (3)
Out: Chris Watt, Notre Dame (4)

Offensive tackle
1. Greg Robinson, Auburn
2. Jake Matthews, Texas A&M
3. Taylor Lewan, Michigan
4. Zack Martin, Notre Dame
5. Joel Bitonio, Nevada

Defensive tackle
1. Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh
2. Timmy Jernigan, Florida State
3. Louis Nix, Notre Dame
4. Ra'Shede Hageman, Minnesota
5. Daniel McCullers, Tennessee

Rise: Donald (3)
New entry: McCullers
Out: Kelcy Quarles, South Carolina (5)

Defensive end
1. Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina
2. Kony Ealy, Missouri
3. Dee Ford, Auburn
4. Scott Crichton, Oregon State
5. Stephon Tuitt, Notre Dame

Outside linebacker
1. Khalil Mack, Buffalo
2. Anthony Barr, UCLA
3. Ryan Shazier, Ohio State
4. Trent Murphy, Stanford
5. Marcus Smith, Louisville

Inside linebacker
1. C.J. Mosley, Alabama
2. Chris Borland, Wisconsin
3. Shayne Skov, Stanford
4. Max Bullough, Michigan State
5. Preston Brown, Louisville

Cornerback
1. Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State
2. Kyle Fuller, Virginia Tech
3. Justin Gilbert, Oklahoma State
4. Bradley Roby, Ohio State
5. Jason Verrett, TCU

Rise: Fuller (3)
Fall: Gilbert (2)

Safety
1. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Alabama
2. Calvin Pryor, Louisville
3. Jimmie Ward, Northern Illinois
4. Deone Bucannon, Washington State
5. Lamarcus Joyner, Florida State

Rise: Clinton-Dix (2)
Fall: Pryor (1)

 

[Faust]

Mike Mayock's position rankings for 2014 NFL Draft

By Mike Mayock

NFL Media draft analyst

QB, RB, WR & TE Excerpt:

» Mayock's pre-combine rankings | Post-combine rankings | Post-pro days rankings

Mike Mayock's fourth edition of his position-by-position prospect rankings for the 2014 NFL Draft:

Quarterback
1. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M
2. Blake Bortles, Central Florida
3. Derek Carr, Fresno State
4. Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois
T-5. Zach Mettenberger, LSU
T-5. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville

New entry: Mettenberger
Rise: Carr (4), Garoppolo (T-5)
Fall: Bridgewater (3)
Out: AJ McCarron, Alabama (T-5)

Running back
1. Bishop Sankey, Washington
2. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State
3. Jeremy Hill, LSU
4. Tre Mason, Auburn
5. Andre Williams, Boston College

Wide receiver
1. Sammy Watkins, Clemson
2. Mike Evans, Texas A&M
3. Odell Beckham Jr., LSU
4. Brandin Cooks, Oregon State
T-5. Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State
T-5. Marqise Lee, USC

Rise: Beckham Jr. (T-5)
Fall: Lee (3)
Out: Jarvis Landry, LSU (T-5)

Tight end
1. Eric Ebron, North Carolina
2. Jace Amaro, Texas Tech
3. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Washington
4. Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
5. C.J. Fiedorowicz, Iowa

Rise: Amaro (3)
Fall: Seferian-Jenkins (2)

Mayock dropping the draft ranking hammer on Bridgewater over his poor showing on his pro day:

Mayock: Teddy Bridgewater not a first-round quarterback