JohnnyU
Footballguy
Rankings from Oct 1 2010 - http://walterfootball.com/draft2011QB.php
QUARTERBACKS
1 - Andrew Luck**, QB, Stanford
Height: 6-4. Weight: 235.
Projected 40 Time: 4.80.
Projected Round (2011): Top 3 Pick.
10/1/10: Stanford has dominated early part in the year, and with Luck's team winning consistently he will have a better public perception as an NFL Draft prospect than Jake Locker. Luck has completed 64 percent of his passes for a 9.6 YPA and thrown 10 touchdowns with zero interceptions. Luck has also shows very good mobility being able to scramble outside the pocket. I love Luck's mechanics, decision making, and football IQ. If Locker's team hovers around .500, then Luck will have more generated hype and there will be less concerns that he can win in the NFL.
3/29/10: A redshirt sophomore in 2009, Andrew Luck will be eligible for the 2011 NFL Draft. He was very impressive as a first-year starter, compiling 2,575 yards, 13 touchdowns and four picks on an 8.9 YPA and a 56.3 completion percentage.
2 - Jake Locker, QB, Washington - Scouting Report
Height: 6-3. Weight: 223.
Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
Projected Round (2011): Top 5 Pick.
10/1/10: Huge game on the road this week for Washington as they travel into the Coliseum. Locker struggled against Nebraska as his accuracy was off-target and his decision making left something to be desired, but a closer look at the tape shows his receivers rarely got open and he was under constant pressure from Bo Pelini's defense. Luck has the upper hand right now to go higher in the 2011 NFL Draft.
3/29/10: Jake Locker took a huge risk going back to school. If he gets hurt or if scouts notice something wrong on film, his stock could drop dramatically. For now, he's the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2011 class. Perhaps he should follow Sam Bradford's example and take the entire 2010 season off.
With no help around him, Locker threw for 2,800 yards, 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2009.
3 - Ryan Mallett*, QB, Arkansas - Scouting Report
Height: 6-7. Weight: 238.
Projected 40 Time: 5.05.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: Mallett's team is winning and he's putting up good stats, but if you take a closer look his accuracy is highly inconsistent, he has poor mechanics, and he struggles with mobility and has a hard time eluding pass rushers. Mallett is a bit of a statue in the pocket and doesn't create throwing lanes outside the tackle box when his receivers struggle to get open. We're not buying the hype anymore, and neither should you.
3/29/10: At 6-7 with a massive arm, Ryan Mallett looks like a franchise quarterback. His 2009 numbers (3,624 yards, 30 TDs, 7 INTs, 9.0 YPA) will tell you that as well. He's a bit raw and needs to work on decision-making, but he could easily leapfrog Jake Locker on this list next year.
4 - Nick Foles*, Arizona
Height: 6-5. Weight: 235.
Projected 40 Time: 5.01.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
9/24/10: I wasn't a fan of Nick Foles last year because of his frequent tendency to check down his passes, but he really has improved this season. He's completing 78.6 percent of his passes with an 8.9 YPA, and really looked sharp against Iowa.
3/29/10: A transfer from Michigan State, Nick Foles threw for 2,465 yards, 19 touchdowns, nine interceptions and a 64.3 completion percentage in his first year as a starter. His YPA of 6.2 was horrendous - a result of his checking it down far too often.
5 - Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.72.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: Ponder bounced back from his ugly 11-28, 2 INT performance against Oklahoma to notch a total of 392 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a 66-percent completion rate. We like this confidence to mentally respond from a poor game. Ponder's decision making is a little inconsistent, but he has a good arm and terrific athleticism. He will get drafted in the top 50 picks.
3/29/10: Christian Ponder finished the year with 2,718 yards, 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions on a YPA of 8.2 and impressive 68.8 completion percentage.
11/7/09: A slightly better version of Tony Pike; his arm strength isn't very good, but he's a smart and accurate quarterback.
6 - Nathan Enderle, QB, Idaho
Height: 6-5. Weight: 227.
Projected 40 Time: 5.05.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Enderle had a five-interception outing against Nebraska, but remember Nebraska is one of the elite defenses in the country. Enderle is an accurate passer and solid decision maker operating a pro-style offense. In his last two games he is throwing for 70-percent, 9.8 YPA, four touchdowns and one interception. To cement a second-round grade he must have a good showing at the Senior Bowl in January.
3/29/10: Statistically impressive as a junior, Nathan Enderle had 2,906 yards, 22 touchdowns and nine picks as a junior on a 9.3 YPA and 61.5 completion percentage.
7 - Ricky Stanzi, QB, Iowa
Height: 6-4. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Stanzi won't "wow" you with his physical tools, but he is an intelligent quarterback with terrific accuracy and a high football I.Q. He knows how to manage a game and he understands the intracacies of passing the football. Stanzi projets as a potential starter to the next level, and he isn't expected to win a job in his rookie season. He lacks some upside, but he has some tools a team can work with. Stanzi has completed 67 percent of his passes for a 10 YPA, nine touchdowns and one interception. Keep in mind the only challenging defense he has faced is Arizona.
3/29/10: Ricky Stanzi is a strong-armed pro-style quarterback, but makes questionable throws at times. In 2009, he had 2,417 yards and 17 touchdowns, but also tossed 15 picks on a 56.3 completion percentage. His YPA was 8.0.
8 - Pat Devlin, QB, Delaware
Height: 6-4. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Devlin is probably the toughest quarterback in college football right now. He fractured his left wrist, and returned to play two weeks later against Richmond going 14-21 for 240 yards. Devlin's production in his first two games was mediocre only throwing for a 6.3 YPA against West Chester and South Dakota State.
3/29/10: As a junior at Delaware, Pat Devlin threw for 2,664 yards, 16 touchdowns and nine picks on a 7.7 YPA and 64.0 completion percentage. He boasts a strong arm and could be a first-round pick with a solid senior campaign.
2/4/09: Pat Devlin doesn't have much playing experience, thanks to Darryl Clark, but he possesses a rocket arm. He transferred over to Delaware in hopes of becoming the next Joe Flacco. With two strong seasons, Devlin could be a first-round pick in 2010.
9 - Tyrod Taylor, QB/WR, Virginia Tech
Height: 6-1. Weight: 206.
Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
Projected Round (2011): 5-7.
10/1/10: Tyrod Taylor is certainly not a quarterback prospect you want to hang your hat on, but he's one of the better options in the later rounds if you are looking for a backup at the next level. He is very mobile, athletic and has a solid arm to make all the throws. He needs to be coached up at the next level, but he is worth taking a flier on in Rounds 5 or 6. Taylor has notched 66 percent of his completions for a 10.0 YPA on the year thus far.
3/29/10: A short quarterback who completed only 56 percent of his passes in 2009. On the bright side, he threw only five picks and maintained a 9.5 YPA.
10 - Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
Height: 6-6. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
Projected Round (2011): 5-7.
10/1/10 : Kaepernick has a big arm, prototypical size, and plenty of athleticism, but he also has an awkward, slow release as well as horrible passing mechanics overall. His accuracy is a little erratic as well, but some coach will think they can turn him around late in the NFL Draft.
3/29/10: Has nice size and athleticism, but Nevada's goofy offense hasn't prepared him for the pros at all. In 2009, Kaepernick compiled 2,052 yards, 20 touchdowns and just six picks, but also had a mediocre YPA (7.3) and completion percentage (58.9).
WIDE RECEIVERS (from Oct 2010 and doesn't include Justin Blackmon)
1 - A.J. Green*, WR, Georgia
Height: 6-4. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
Projected Round (2011): Top 10 Pick.
10/1/10: Green has served his four-game suspension by the NCAA, and he makes his debut this week against Colorado. Stay tuned...
3/31/10: Despite the downgrade at quarterback, A.J. Green did not suffer a dropoff in production. He caught 53 balls for 808 yards and six touchdowns in 10 games. With Julio Jones' drop problems, Green is the No. 1 wideout in the 2011 class for now.
8/7/09: Like Julio Jones, A.J. Green humiliated SEC corners as a true freshman, collecting 56 catches for 963 yards and eight scores. There might be a dropoff with Matt Stafford gone, but there's no denying Green's talent.
2 - Jonathan Baldwin*, WR, Pittsburgh - Scouting Report
Height: 6-5. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2011): Top 20 Pick.
10/1/10: Pittsburgh elected not to throw at cornerback Brandon Harris as everyone else has done this season in Baldwin's matchup against the first-rounder for Miami. Baldwin has been very consistent this season catching the football and looks like a huge possession receiver at the next level.
3/31/10: Believe it or not, but there are other receivers in this 2011 NFL Draft class besides Julio Jones, Michael Floyd and A.J. Green. Jonathan Baldwin, at 6-5, 225, caught 57 balls for 1,111 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore in 2009.
3 - Michael Floyd*, WR, Notre Dame
Height: 6-3. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Projected Round (2011): Top 20 Pick.
10/1/10: Floyd has been very consistent thus far this season catching at least five balls in each of his first four games for a 14.1 yard per catch average. He has shows excellent athleticism and has a knack for timing jump balls and keeping his feet in bounds. Floyd is a first-round pick.
5/17/10: Dropped him to No. 4 in my 2011 NFL Draft wide receiver rankings. I figure he needs to prove he can stay healthy for a whole season to be drafted in the top half of the first round.
3/31/10: Michael Floyd played in just seven games in 2009 - the people who say Jimmy Clausen had elite talent tend to ignore this - yet he still grabbed 44 receptions for 795 yards and nine touchdowns.
8/7/09: Michael Floyd contributed immediately, catching 48 passes for 719 yards and seven touchdowns. He played in only 10 games because of a knee sprain.
4 - Julio Jones*, WR, Alabama
Height: 6-4. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.42.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: We have seen too much inconsistency in Jones' game to say he is locked into the first round. He doesn't always come out very sharply out of his routes, drops catchable passes and tends to lose focus.
3/31/10: Caught only 43 passes for 596 yards and four touchdowns in 2009. Struggled with drops.
8/7/09: The top receiving prospect we've seen since Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones has a shot at being drafted first overall. Running pro routes, Jones dominated the SEC as a true freshman, garnering 58 receptions for 924 yards and four touchdowns.
5 - Ryan Broyles*, WR/PR, Oklahoma
Height: 5-11. Weight: 175.
Projected 40 Time: 4.41.
Projected Round (2011): 2.
10/1/10: Broyles is second in the nation in receiving yardage at the moment as he has been absolutely dominant for the Sooners catching 41 balls for 482 yards and four touchdowns. He is excellent in getting yards after the catch and really has a second gear in the open field.
3/31/10: Despite missing Sam Bradford almost the entire year, Ryan Broyles compiled 89 receptions, 1,120 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was also great on punt returns (15.9 average).
6 - DeVier Posey*, WR, Ohio State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Posey has solid size, speed, and seems to have improved his overall receiving skills from last season. He has upside and just might break out when given the chance in Big Ten conference play.
3/31/10: Has the production to match his impressive size and solid speed - caught 60 balls for 828 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore.
7 - Austin Pettis, WR, Boise State
6-3. Weight: 201.
Projected 40 Time: 4.56.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Pettis made a name for himself against Virginia Tech going for six catches for 73 yards and two touchdowns. He has very consistent, soft hands and uses his big frame to his advantage. However, he lacks great athleticism and speed to be a huge vertical threat at the next level.
3/31/10: Had a big junior campaign for Boise State, catching 63 balls for 855 yards and 14 touchdowns.
8 - Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
Height: 6-3. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.57.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Hankerson's hands are a little inconsistent, but he has shown the ability to make the acrobatic catch as well. If he becomes more consistent he could sneak into the second round. Hankerson has 241 receiving yards and three touchdowns through his first three games this season.
3/31/10: Compiled 45 receptions, 801 yards and six touchdowns as a junior.
9 - Dwayne Harris, WR/KR, East Carolina
Height: 6-0. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Harris is one of the more underrated receiving prospects in the country. He's a very polished, competitive player who doesn't go down easy once the ball is in his hands. Harris has notched 23 catches for 294 yards and four touchdowns this year for the ECU Pirates.
3/31/10: The 83 catches for 978 yards and seven touchdowns are nice. The three scores on kick returns are better.
10 - Matt Szczur, WR/RB/KR, Villanova
Height: 5-11. Weight: 195.
Projected 40 Time: 4.47.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
3/31/10: Villanova's all-purpose back, Matt Szczur had 654 rushing yards and 542 receiving yards in 2009. He also averaged 27.6 yards per kickoff return.
RUNNING BACKS - (doesn't include LeMichael James)
1 - Mark Ingram*, RB, Alabama - Scouting Report
Height: 5-10. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Projected Round (2011): Top 15 Pick.
10/1/10: Ingram recovered from a knee injury missing his first two games, but he has dominated and returned to Heisman form. He is averaging 9.3 yards per carry on 308 yards total in his last two games against Duke and Arkansas. Ingram isn't the fastest back in the 2011 NFL Draft, but he has amazing balance, power, vision and terrific instincts. He will be the first back off the board.
3/29/10: The 2009 Heisman Trophy winner, Mark Ingram rushed for 1,658 yards and 17 touchdowns on a 6.1 YPC. He also caught 32 passes for 334 more yards. He's a legit top-10 prospect.
2 - Ryan Williams**, RB, Virginia Tech
Height: 5-10. Weight: 206.
Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
Projected Round (2011): Top 25 Pick.
10/1/10: Williams got no help from his offensive line against Boise State, but he showed great power, burst, athleticism and competitiveness. He runs with authority and really attacks the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately, Williams suffered a hamstring injury against East Carolina and is questionable this weekend against N.C. State.
3/29/10: Darren Evans' injury opened the door for Ryan Williams, who rushed for 1,655 yards and 21 scores on a 5.7 YPC last year. He also grabbed 16 balls for 180 more yards. Williams was a redshirt sophomore, so he'll be eligible for the 2011 NFL Draft.
3 - Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois
Height: 6-1. Weight: 228.
Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: (Note: name pronounced muh-KEL luh-SHORE) Ladies and gentlement, this is the breakout running back for the 2011 NFL Draft class. Leshoure is 6-1, 230 with amazing power and speed. He obliterated Missouri for 20 carries and 112 yards. He is averaging 6.9 yards per carry and has 398 rushing yards, three touchdowns total as well as ranking No. 6 in the nation in rushing yards per game. Leshoure has been praised this offseason for his improved work ethic, diet and maturity. The sky is the limit for this talented back from Champaign, Ill.
4 - Shane Vereen*, RB, California
Height: 5-10. Weight: 198.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Projected Round (2011): 2.
10/1/10: Vereen was our No. 3 back entering the 2010 season and has lived up to the hype. Through four games he has 426 yards and six touchdowns including a 198-yard performance against Nevada. Vereen has athleticism and vision, and is elusive in the open field. He's simply too talented to fall past the second round at this point.
7/22/10: Shane Vereen did a great job replacing an injured Jahvid Best; he rushed for 952 yards and 12 touchdowns on a 5.2 YPC. He also caught 25 passes for 244 receiving yards.
5 - Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 227.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Thomas has really improved since last season and reportedly has shown better running instincts, power, and confidence. He has 628 rushing yards and six touchdowns thus far including a 234-yard performance against UCLA. Our concern here with Thomas is his highly upright running style, which will expose his legs to tacklers. 3/29/10: Daniel Thomas rushed for 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns on a 5.1 YPC. He also caught 25 balls for 257 more yards. If he can run a fast 40, he may break into the first round.
6 - Noel Devine, RB, West Virginia
Height: 5-8. Weight: 175.
Projected 40 Time: 4.31.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Devine suffered a bruised toe against LSU and was limited later in that game. In his first three games, Devine accumulated 73 carries for 354 rushing yards and 80 receiving yards. He is an electric player in the open field and it is inevitable he will draw comparisons to Dexter McCluster.
11/7/09: Someone will draft Noel Devine in Rounds 2-3 if he runs a fast 40. He's averaging 6.2 YPC and 8.2 yards per reception this year. He'll be seen as a Darren Sproles-type player
7 - Kendall Hunter, RB, Oklahoma State
Height: 5-8. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.42.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Hunter has been dominant statistically and looks like he is running with a lower centery of gravity and doing a better job of breaking tackles. He has averaged 7.9 yards per carry and has 473 rushing yards through three games.
3/29/10: Kendall Hunter finished an unspectacular year with only 382 rushing yards (4.3 YPC) and 11 catches.
8 - DeMarco Murray, RB, Oklahoma
Height: 6-1. Weight: 214.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Murray looks like a solid third-down back in the league, but he doesn't profile as a No. 1 back because he lacks the interior running instincts and generally shies from contact. Murray has very good speed and can catch the football with ease. He is averaging 4.2 yards per carry and has 16 receptions for 111 yards through four games.
3/29/10: Finished his junior campaign with 680 rushing yards, 41 receptions and 522 receiving yards.
10/10/09: DeMarco Murray has played well coming off his injury, gaining 5.4 YPC in four games. He also has eight receptions.
1/3/09: DeMarco Murray needs surgery on his hamstring, and will miss the final winter practice game of the year. That should pretty much mean that he's coming back for his junior campaign.
9 - Derrick Locke, RB, Kentucky
Height: 5-9. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.37.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/1/10: Locke lacks size, but he runs with authority and has tremendous speed. He has strung togther four straight 100-yard rushing games. Locke is No. 8 in the nation in total rushing yards. A big Senior Bowl could propel this back into the third round for a team looking for a speedy backup.
3/29/10: Despite being hampered by sore knees toward the end of the season, Derrick Locke rushed for 908 yards (4.6 YPC) and caught 31 balls in 2009. He'll be a third-down back/kick returner (he averaged 27 yards on kickoff returns.)
10 - Quizz Rodgers*, RB, Oregon State
Height: 5-7. Weight: 191.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/1/10: Rodgers has speed, but he can't carry the load at the next level.
3/29/10: Can Quizz Rodgers handle the load at just 191 pounds? Look at these numbers, and you tell me: 273 carries, 1,440 yards. 78 catches, 522 rec. yards, 22 touchdowns. Insanity sauce.
TIGHT ENDS
1 - Kyle Rudolph*, TE, Notre Dame
Height: 6-6. Weight: 260.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2011): Top 35 Pick.
10/2/10: Rudolph had 21 catches for 287 yards and two touchdowns through his first three games, but only managed one reception against Stanford. Rudolph is easily the top tight end prospect on the board, but because tight ends tend to fall in the NFL Draft, there is chance he slips to early Round 2.
4/3/10: Kyle Rudolph is currently the top tight end prospect for the 2011 NFL Draft class (assuming he comes out early). He caught 33 passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns as a sophomore despite missing some time with a shoulder injury.
2 - D. .J. Williams, TE, Arkansas
Height: 6-2. Weight: 251.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/2/10: Williams has some athleticism and solid hands, which makes him our second projected tight end to go off the board in a very weak 2011 NFL Draft class. Williams currently has 19 catches for 236 yards in his first four games.
4/3/10: D.J. Williams totaled 32 receptions, 411 yards and three touchdowns in 2009.
3 - Zach Pianalto, TE, North Carolina
Height: 6-4. Weight: 250.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/2/10: Pianalto is a tough in-line blocker and has adequate size to start in the league. He has sure hands and does a good job of finding soft spots in zone. Pianalto has 19 catches for 156 yards through three games.
4/3/10: Collected 22 receptions, 243 yards and three scores.
4 - Lance Kendricks, TE, Wisconsin
Height: 6-4. Weight: 239.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/2/10: Kendricks' stats make him look better than what he is. On tape, he isn't a very athletic tight end in the open field and struggles to make defenders miss. Just because you catch the football and get yards in college doesn't mean this will happen at the next level. Kendricks has 17 catches for 299 yards and three touchdowns through his first four games.
4/3/10: A good blocker despite his small frame, Lance Kendricks managed 29 receptions, 356 yards and three scores in 2009.
5 - Virgil Green, TE, Nevada
Height: 6-5. Weight: 240.
Projected 40 Time: 4.74.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/2/10: Green is a tall, athletic tight end with good speed, but he needs to bulk up and put on some weight. Green is a poor blocker and doesn't show a lot of toughness, but he has some upside. He has 13 catches for 225 yards and three touchdowns through four games.
4/3/10: The product of a weird pistol offense, Virgil Green collected 23 receptions, 260 yards and five touchdowns as a junior.
QUARTERBACKS
1 - Andrew Luck**, QB, Stanford
Height: 6-4. Weight: 235.
Projected 40 Time: 4.80.
Projected Round (2011): Top 3 Pick.
10/1/10: Stanford has dominated early part in the year, and with Luck's team winning consistently he will have a better public perception as an NFL Draft prospect than Jake Locker. Luck has completed 64 percent of his passes for a 9.6 YPA and thrown 10 touchdowns with zero interceptions. Luck has also shows very good mobility being able to scramble outside the pocket. I love Luck's mechanics, decision making, and football IQ. If Locker's team hovers around .500, then Luck will have more generated hype and there will be less concerns that he can win in the NFL.
3/29/10: A redshirt sophomore in 2009, Andrew Luck will be eligible for the 2011 NFL Draft. He was very impressive as a first-year starter, compiling 2,575 yards, 13 touchdowns and four picks on an 8.9 YPA and a 56.3 completion percentage.
2 - Jake Locker, QB, Washington - Scouting Report
Height: 6-3. Weight: 223.
Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
Projected Round (2011): Top 5 Pick.
10/1/10: Huge game on the road this week for Washington as they travel into the Coliseum. Locker struggled against Nebraska as his accuracy was off-target and his decision making left something to be desired, but a closer look at the tape shows his receivers rarely got open and he was under constant pressure from Bo Pelini's defense. Luck has the upper hand right now to go higher in the 2011 NFL Draft.
3/29/10: Jake Locker took a huge risk going back to school. If he gets hurt or if scouts notice something wrong on film, his stock could drop dramatically. For now, he's the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2011 class. Perhaps he should follow Sam Bradford's example and take the entire 2010 season off.
With no help around him, Locker threw for 2,800 yards, 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2009.
3 - Ryan Mallett*, QB, Arkansas - Scouting Report
Height: 6-7. Weight: 238.
Projected 40 Time: 5.05.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: Mallett's team is winning and he's putting up good stats, but if you take a closer look his accuracy is highly inconsistent, he has poor mechanics, and he struggles with mobility and has a hard time eluding pass rushers. Mallett is a bit of a statue in the pocket and doesn't create throwing lanes outside the tackle box when his receivers struggle to get open. We're not buying the hype anymore, and neither should you.
3/29/10: At 6-7 with a massive arm, Ryan Mallett looks like a franchise quarterback. His 2009 numbers (3,624 yards, 30 TDs, 7 INTs, 9.0 YPA) will tell you that as well. He's a bit raw and needs to work on decision-making, but he could easily leapfrog Jake Locker on this list next year.
4 - Nick Foles*, Arizona
Height: 6-5. Weight: 235.
Projected 40 Time: 5.01.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
9/24/10: I wasn't a fan of Nick Foles last year because of his frequent tendency to check down his passes, but he really has improved this season. He's completing 78.6 percent of his passes with an 8.9 YPA, and really looked sharp against Iowa.
3/29/10: A transfer from Michigan State, Nick Foles threw for 2,465 yards, 19 touchdowns, nine interceptions and a 64.3 completion percentage in his first year as a starter. His YPA of 6.2 was horrendous - a result of his checking it down far too often.
5 - Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.72.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: Ponder bounced back from his ugly 11-28, 2 INT performance against Oklahoma to notch a total of 392 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a 66-percent completion rate. We like this confidence to mentally respond from a poor game. Ponder's decision making is a little inconsistent, but he has a good arm and terrific athleticism. He will get drafted in the top 50 picks.
3/29/10: Christian Ponder finished the year with 2,718 yards, 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions on a YPA of 8.2 and impressive 68.8 completion percentage.
11/7/09: A slightly better version of Tony Pike; his arm strength isn't very good, but he's a smart and accurate quarterback.
6 - Nathan Enderle, QB, Idaho
Height: 6-5. Weight: 227.
Projected 40 Time: 5.05.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Enderle had a five-interception outing against Nebraska, but remember Nebraska is one of the elite defenses in the country. Enderle is an accurate passer and solid decision maker operating a pro-style offense. In his last two games he is throwing for 70-percent, 9.8 YPA, four touchdowns and one interception. To cement a second-round grade he must have a good showing at the Senior Bowl in January.
3/29/10: Statistically impressive as a junior, Nathan Enderle had 2,906 yards, 22 touchdowns and nine picks as a junior on a 9.3 YPA and 61.5 completion percentage.
7 - Ricky Stanzi, QB, Iowa
Height: 6-4. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Stanzi won't "wow" you with his physical tools, but he is an intelligent quarterback with terrific accuracy and a high football I.Q. He knows how to manage a game and he understands the intracacies of passing the football. Stanzi projets as a potential starter to the next level, and he isn't expected to win a job in his rookie season. He lacks some upside, but he has some tools a team can work with. Stanzi has completed 67 percent of his passes for a 10 YPA, nine touchdowns and one interception. Keep in mind the only challenging defense he has faced is Arizona.
3/29/10: Ricky Stanzi is a strong-armed pro-style quarterback, but makes questionable throws at times. In 2009, he had 2,417 yards and 17 touchdowns, but also tossed 15 picks on a 56.3 completion percentage. His YPA was 8.0.
8 - Pat Devlin, QB, Delaware
Height: 6-4. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Devlin is probably the toughest quarterback in college football right now. He fractured his left wrist, and returned to play two weeks later against Richmond going 14-21 for 240 yards. Devlin's production in his first two games was mediocre only throwing for a 6.3 YPA against West Chester and South Dakota State.
3/29/10: As a junior at Delaware, Pat Devlin threw for 2,664 yards, 16 touchdowns and nine picks on a 7.7 YPA and 64.0 completion percentage. He boasts a strong arm and could be a first-round pick with a solid senior campaign.
2/4/09: Pat Devlin doesn't have much playing experience, thanks to Darryl Clark, but he possesses a rocket arm. He transferred over to Delaware in hopes of becoming the next Joe Flacco. With two strong seasons, Devlin could be a first-round pick in 2010.
9 - Tyrod Taylor, QB/WR, Virginia Tech
Height: 6-1. Weight: 206.
Projected 40 Time: 4.52.
Projected Round (2011): 5-7.
10/1/10: Tyrod Taylor is certainly not a quarterback prospect you want to hang your hat on, but he's one of the better options in the later rounds if you are looking for a backup at the next level. He is very mobile, athletic and has a solid arm to make all the throws. He needs to be coached up at the next level, but he is worth taking a flier on in Rounds 5 or 6. Taylor has notched 66 percent of his completions for a 10.0 YPA on the year thus far.
3/29/10: A short quarterback who completed only 56 percent of his passes in 2009. On the bright side, he threw only five picks and maintained a 9.5 YPA.
10 - Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
Height: 6-6. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
Projected Round (2011): 5-7.
10/1/10 : Kaepernick has a big arm, prototypical size, and plenty of athleticism, but he also has an awkward, slow release as well as horrible passing mechanics overall. His accuracy is a little erratic as well, but some coach will think they can turn him around late in the NFL Draft.
3/29/10: Has nice size and athleticism, but Nevada's goofy offense hasn't prepared him for the pros at all. In 2009, Kaepernick compiled 2,052 yards, 20 touchdowns and just six picks, but also had a mediocre YPA (7.3) and completion percentage (58.9).
WIDE RECEIVERS (from Oct 2010 and doesn't include Justin Blackmon)
1 - A.J. Green*, WR, Georgia
Height: 6-4. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
Projected Round (2011): Top 10 Pick.
10/1/10: Green has served his four-game suspension by the NCAA, and he makes his debut this week against Colorado. Stay tuned...
3/31/10: Despite the downgrade at quarterback, A.J. Green did not suffer a dropoff in production. He caught 53 balls for 808 yards and six touchdowns in 10 games. With Julio Jones' drop problems, Green is the No. 1 wideout in the 2011 class for now.
8/7/09: Like Julio Jones, A.J. Green humiliated SEC corners as a true freshman, collecting 56 catches for 963 yards and eight scores. There might be a dropoff with Matt Stafford gone, but there's no denying Green's talent.
2 - Jonathan Baldwin*, WR, Pittsburgh - Scouting Report
Height: 6-5. Weight: 225.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2011): Top 20 Pick.
10/1/10: Pittsburgh elected not to throw at cornerback Brandon Harris as everyone else has done this season in Baldwin's matchup against the first-rounder for Miami. Baldwin has been very consistent this season catching the football and looks like a huge possession receiver at the next level.
3/31/10: Believe it or not, but there are other receivers in this 2011 NFL Draft class besides Julio Jones, Michael Floyd and A.J. Green. Jonathan Baldwin, at 6-5, 225, caught 57 balls for 1,111 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore in 2009.
3 - Michael Floyd*, WR, Notre Dame
Height: 6-3. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Projected Round (2011): Top 20 Pick.
10/1/10: Floyd has been very consistent thus far this season catching at least five balls in each of his first four games for a 14.1 yard per catch average. He has shows excellent athleticism and has a knack for timing jump balls and keeping his feet in bounds. Floyd is a first-round pick.
5/17/10: Dropped him to No. 4 in my 2011 NFL Draft wide receiver rankings. I figure he needs to prove he can stay healthy for a whole season to be drafted in the top half of the first round.
3/31/10: Michael Floyd played in just seven games in 2009 - the people who say Jimmy Clausen had elite talent tend to ignore this - yet he still grabbed 44 receptions for 795 yards and nine touchdowns.
8/7/09: Michael Floyd contributed immediately, catching 48 passes for 719 yards and seven touchdowns. He played in only 10 games because of a knee sprain.
4 - Julio Jones*, WR, Alabama
Height: 6-4. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.42.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: We have seen too much inconsistency in Jones' game to say he is locked into the first round. He doesn't always come out very sharply out of his routes, drops catchable passes and tends to lose focus.
3/31/10: Caught only 43 passes for 596 yards and four touchdowns in 2009. Struggled with drops.
8/7/09: The top receiving prospect we've seen since Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones has a shot at being drafted first overall. Running pro routes, Jones dominated the SEC as a true freshman, garnering 58 receptions for 924 yards and four touchdowns.
5 - Ryan Broyles*, WR/PR, Oklahoma
Height: 5-11. Weight: 175.
Projected 40 Time: 4.41.
Projected Round (2011): 2.
10/1/10: Broyles is second in the nation in receiving yardage at the moment as he has been absolutely dominant for the Sooners catching 41 balls for 482 yards and four touchdowns. He is excellent in getting yards after the catch and really has a second gear in the open field.
3/31/10: Despite missing Sam Bradford almost the entire year, Ryan Broyles compiled 89 receptions, 1,120 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was also great on punt returns (15.9 average).
6 - DeVier Posey*, WR, Ohio State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.49.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Posey has solid size, speed, and seems to have improved his overall receiving skills from last season. He has upside and just might break out when given the chance in Big Ten conference play.
3/31/10: Has the production to match his impressive size and solid speed - caught 60 balls for 828 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore.
7 - Austin Pettis, WR, Boise State
6-3. Weight: 201.
Projected 40 Time: 4.56.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Pettis made a name for himself against Virginia Tech going for six catches for 73 yards and two touchdowns. He has very consistent, soft hands and uses his big frame to his advantage. However, he lacks great athleticism and speed to be a huge vertical threat at the next level.
3/31/10: Had a big junior campaign for Boise State, catching 63 balls for 855 yards and 14 touchdowns.
8 - Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
Height: 6-3. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.57.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Hankerson's hands are a little inconsistent, but he has shown the ability to make the acrobatic catch as well. If he becomes more consistent he could sneak into the second round. Hankerson has 241 receiving yards and three touchdowns through his first three games this season.
3/31/10: Compiled 45 receptions, 801 yards and six touchdowns as a junior.
9 - Dwayne Harris, WR/KR, East Carolina
Height: 6-0. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Harris is one of the more underrated receiving prospects in the country. He's a very polished, competitive player who doesn't go down easy once the ball is in his hands. Harris has notched 23 catches for 294 yards and four touchdowns this year for the ECU Pirates.
3/31/10: The 83 catches for 978 yards and seven touchdowns are nice. The three scores on kick returns are better.
10 - Matt Szczur, WR/RB/KR, Villanova
Height: 5-11. Weight: 195.
Projected 40 Time: 4.47.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
3/31/10: Villanova's all-purpose back, Matt Szczur had 654 rushing yards and 542 receiving yards in 2009. He also averaged 27.6 yards per kickoff return.
RUNNING BACKS - (doesn't include LeMichael James)
1 - Mark Ingram*, RB, Alabama - Scouting Report
Height: 5-10. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Projected Round (2011): Top 15 Pick.
10/1/10: Ingram recovered from a knee injury missing his first two games, but he has dominated and returned to Heisman form. He is averaging 9.3 yards per carry on 308 yards total in his last two games against Duke and Arkansas. Ingram isn't the fastest back in the 2011 NFL Draft, but he has amazing balance, power, vision and terrific instincts. He will be the first back off the board.
3/29/10: The 2009 Heisman Trophy winner, Mark Ingram rushed for 1,658 yards and 17 touchdowns on a 6.1 YPC. He also caught 32 passes for 334 more yards. He's a legit top-10 prospect.
2 - Ryan Williams**, RB, Virginia Tech
Height: 5-10. Weight: 206.
Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
Projected Round (2011): Top 25 Pick.
10/1/10: Williams got no help from his offensive line against Boise State, but he showed great power, burst, athleticism and competitiveness. He runs with authority and really attacks the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately, Williams suffered a hamstring injury against East Carolina and is questionable this weekend against N.C. State.
3/29/10: Darren Evans' injury opened the door for Ryan Williams, who rushed for 1,655 yards and 21 scores on a 5.7 YPC last year. He also grabbed 16 balls for 180 more yards. Williams was a redshirt sophomore, so he'll be eligible for the 2011 NFL Draft.
3 - Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois
Height: 6-1. Weight: 228.
Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
Projected Round (2011): 1-2.
10/1/10: (Note: name pronounced muh-KEL luh-SHORE) Ladies and gentlement, this is the breakout running back for the 2011 NFL Draft class. Leshoure is 6-1, 230 with amazing power and speed. He obliterated Missouri for 20 carries and 112 yards. He is averaging 6.9 yards per carry and has 398 rushing yards, three touchdowns total as well as ranking No. 6 in the nation in rushing yards per game. Leshoure has been praised this offseason for his improved work ethic, diet and maturity. The sky is the limit for this talented back from Champaign, Ill.
4 - Shane Vereen*, RB, California
Height: 5-10. Weight: 198.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Projected Round (2011): 2.
10/1/10: Vereen was our No. 3 back entering the 2010 season and has lived up to the hype. Through four games he has 426 yards and six touchdowns including a 198-yard performance against Nevada. Vereen has athleticism and vision, and is elusive in the open field. He's simply too talented to fall past the second round at this point.
7/22/10: Shane Vereen did a great job replacing an injured Jahvid Best; he rushed for 952 yards and 12 touchdowns on a 5.2 YPC. He also caught 25 passes for 244 receiving yards.
5 - Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 227.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2011): 2-3.
10/1/10: Thomas has really improved since last season and reportedly has shown better running instincts, power, and confidence. He has 628 rushing yards and six touchdowns thus far including a 234-yard performance against UCLA. Our concern here with Thomas is his highly upright running style, which will expose his legs to tacklers. 3/29/10: Daniel Thomas rushed for 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns on a 5.1 YPC. He also caught 25 balls for 257 more yards. If he can run a fast 40, he may break into the first round.
6 - Noel Devine, RB, West Virginia
Height: 5-8. Weight: 175.
Projected 40 Time: 4.31.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/1/10: Devine suffered a bruised toe against LSU and was limited later in that game. In his first three games, Devine accumulated 73 carries for 354 rushing yards and 80 receiving yards. He is an electric player in the open field and it is inevitable he will draw comparisons to Dexter McCluster.
11/7/09: Someone will draft Noel Devine in Rounds 2-3 if he runs a fast 40. He's averaging 6.2 YPC and 8.2 yards per reception this year. He'll be seen as a Darren Sproles-type player
7 - Kendall Hunter, RB, Oklahoma State
Height: 5-8. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.42.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Hunter has been dominant statistically and looks like he is running with a lower centery of gravity and doing a better job of breaking tackles. He has averaged 7.9 yards per carry and has 473 rushing yards through three games.
3/29/10: Kendall Hunter finished an unspectacular year with only 382 rushing yards (4.3 YPC) and 11 catches.
8 - DeMarco Murray, RB, Oklahoma
Height: 6-1. Weight: 214.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/1/10: Murray looks like a solid third-down back in the league, but he doesn't profile as a No. 1 back because he lacks the interior running instincts and generally shies from contact. Murray has very good speed and can catch the football with ease. He is averaging 4.2 yards per carry and has 16 receptions for 111 yards through four games.
3/29/10: Finished his junior campaign with 680 rushing yards, 41 receptions and 522 receiving yards.
10/10/09: DeMarco Murray has played well coming off his injury, gaining 5.4 YPC in four games. He also has eight receptions.
1/3/09: DeMarco Murray needs surgery on his hamstring, and will miss the final winter practice game of the year. That should pretty much mean that he's coming back for his junior campaign.
9 - Derrick Locke, RB, Kentucky
Height: 5-9. Weight: 190.
Projected 40 Time: 4.37.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/1/10: Locke lacks size, but he runs with authority and has tremendous speed. He has strung togther four straight 100-yard rushing games. Locke is No. 8 in the nation in total rushing yards. A big Senior Bowl could propel this back into the third round for a team looking for a speedy backup.
3/29/10: Despite being hampered by sore knees toward the end of the season, Derrick Locke rushed for 908 yards (4.6 YPC) and caught 31 balls in 2009. He'll be a third-down back/kick returner (he averaged 27 yards on kickoff returns.)
10 - Quizz Rodgers*, RB, Oregon State
Height: 5-7. Weight: 191.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/1/10: Rodgers has speed, but he can't carry the load at the next level.
3/29/10: Can Quizz Rodgers handle the load at just 191 pounds? Look at these numbers, and you tell me: 273 carries, 1,440 yards. 78 catches, 522 rec. yards, 22 touchdowns. Insanity sauce.
TIGHT ENDS
1 - Kyle Rudolph*, TE, Notre Dame
Height: 6-6. Weight: 260.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Projected Round (2011): Top 35 Pick.
10/2/10: Rudolph had 21 catches for 287 yards and two touchdowns through his first three games, but only managed one reception against Stanford. Rudolph is easily the top tight end prospect on the board, but because tight ends tend to fall in the NFL Draft, there is chance he slips to early Round 2.
4/3/10: Kyle Rudolph is currently the top tight end prospect for the 2011 NFL Draft class (assuming he comes out early). He caught 33 passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns as a sophomore despite missing some time with a shoulder injury.
2 - D. .J. Williams, TE, Arkansas
Height: 6-2. Weight: 251.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/2/10: Williams has some athleticism and solid hands, which makes him our second projected tight end to go off the board in a very weak 2011 NFL Draft class. Williams currently has 19 catches for 236 yards in his first four games.
4/3/10: D.J. Williams totaled 32 receptions, 411 yards and three touchdowns in 2009.
3 - Zach Pianalto, TE, North Carolina
Height: 6-4. Weight: 250.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round (2011): 3-4.
10/2/10: Pianalto is a tough in-line blocker and has adequate size to start in the league. He has sure hands and does a good job of finding soft spots in zone. Pianalto has 19 catches for 156 yards through three games.
4/3/10: Collected 22 receptions, 243 yards and three scores.
4 - Lance Kendricks, TE, Wisconsin
Height: 6-4. Weight: 239.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Projected Round (2011): 3-5.
10/2/10: Kendricks' stats make him look better than what he is. On tape, he isn't a very athletic tight end in the open field and struggles to make defenders miss. Just because you catch the football and get yards in college doesn't mean this will happen at the next level. Kendricks has 17 catches for 299 yards and three touchdowns through his first four games.
4/3/10: A good blocker despite his small frame, Lance Kendricks managed 29 receptions, 356 yards and three scores in 2009.
5 - Virgil Green, TE, Nevada
Height: 6-5. Weight: 240.
Projected 40 Time: 4.74.
Projected Round (2011): 4-6.
10/2/10: Green is a tall, athletic tight end with good speed, but he needs to bulk up and put on some weight. Green is a poor blocker and doesn't show a lot of toughness, but he has some upside. He has 13 catches for 225 yards and three touchdowns through four games.
4/3/10: The product of a weird pistol offense, Virgil Green collected 23 receptions, 260 yards and five touchdowns as a junior.
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