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PLAYER REPORTS

For the 10th consecutive year, Pro Football Weeklys staff, led by personnel
analyst Nolan Nawrocki, will provide daily insights into the NFL draft,
beginning April 1 and continuing through the post-draft analysis.

OUR DRAFT COVERAGE WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:


DAILY, TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY, APRIL 1-25: THE WAY WE HEAR IT, WITH
HOT DRAFT RUMORS, WORKOUT RESULTS AND WHAT THE SCOUTS ARE SAYING.

Schedule is subject to change.

ALSO, CHECK OUT OUR DRAFT BLOG AT:


N F L b l o g s . P r o F o o t b a l l W e e k l y. c o m

TEAM NEEDS

NOLAN NAWROCKI

NOTE:

POSITION RANKINGS

By

APRIL 7: INDIVIDUAL WORKOUT RESULTS FROM NFL SCOUTING COMBINE.


APRIL 10: DRAFT RANKINGS BY POSITION.
APRIL 11: DRAFT RANKINGS REGARDLESS OF POSITION.
MONDAYS, APRIL 7-21: DRAFT-RELATED FEATURE.
TUESDAYS, APRIL 8-22: DRAFT VALUE DEPTH CHART.
WEDNESDAYS, APRIL 9-23: Q&A WITH PFWS NOLAN NAWROCKI.
FRIDAYS, APRIL 11-25, AND SATURDAY, APRIL 26: MOCK DRAFT.
APRIL 23: UPDATED DRAFT RANKINGS BY POSITION.
APRIL 24: UPDATED DRAFT RANKINGS REGARDLESS OF POSITION.
APRIL 28: EVALUATION OF EACH TEAMS DRAFT.

l 2008 DRAFT PREVIEW

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Expanded fantasy football section, previewing the 08 rookies.
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Pro Football Weekly The Authority on Pro Football

COVER PG MASTHEAD

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BY

NOLAN
NAWROCKI
THE EDITORS OF
PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

AND

PFW STAFF
CREATORS & FOUNDERS

Arthur Arkush, Robert Drazkowski


and Joel Buchsbaum

Publisher/Editor Hub Arkush


Editor-in-chief Keith Schleiden
Art director Bob Peters
Managing editor Mike Holbrook
Executive editors Dan Arkush
Neil Warner
Senior editors Nolan Nawrocki
Eric Edholm
Mike Wilkening
Associate editors Matt Sohn
Dan Parr
Production assistant Matt Quinnan
Editorial assistants Billy Wellner
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

3/5/08

2:44 PM

Page 2

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW

TABLE OF CONTENTS
2008 draft overview ....................................................4
SCOUTING REPORTS

SPORTPICS

QUARTERBACKS ........................................ 6
RUNNING BACKS ...................................... 18
WIDE RECEIVERS...................................... 39
TIGHT ENDS ............................................ 64
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN .................................. 73
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN .................................. 96
LINEBACKERS ........................................ 121
DEFENSIVE BACKS .................................. 142
SPECIALISTS.......................................... 169

Chris Long

NFL teams 2008 draft needs .................................. 172


Mock draft ................................................................ 187
Player printout: Draft rankings by position .............. 188
Player rankings regardless of position .................... 195
Glossary ..................................................................196
Alphabetical player index.......................................... 198

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Because the deadline for information contained in Pro Football Weeklys 30th annual Draft Preview was
March 5, some of the information may have changed by the time you read this book. Player reports include
analysis and workouts up to and including the Indianapolis Scouting Combine. Many players did not work out
at the Combine and, instead, were planning individual workouts in late March or early April. Also, the draft
needs of the 32 NFL clubs were being altered dramatically by free agency almost daily as we went to press,
and the free-agent signing period continues well past the draft.
Comprehensive updates on the 2008 draft, including late-breaking player printouts, will be featured in
PFWs exclusive draft-preview issue, scheduled to go to press March 30, as well as online at
ProFootballWeekly.com. The final ratings will be printed in the post-draft issue of Pro Football Weekly.
All players in this book were rated by NFL standards, which are the highest standards in the world. Almost
all were exceptional players and athletes on the collegiate level.
All 40-yard-dash times are the most accurate averages we could come up with and are curved to take into
account the type of running surface. Heights and weights are the latest verified figures we could obtain, except
in the few cases where they are estimated. Almost every player who ran poorly at the Combine will be retimed
and retested and has the scouts respect for working out there. Those who were not injured and did not work
out lost points in many teams estimations.
To get the maximum information value out of the Draft Preview, dont forget to refer to the glossary on page
196 if you run across unfamiliar terms in the player reports.
We would like to thank the college coaches, sports information directors and NFL teams who have been so
helpful in compiling this book. Without their assistance in the form of media guides, videotapes, photographs, etc. this project wouldnt have been possible. Not to be forgotten is the late Joel Buchsbaum,
whose incredible work ethic and pure dedication to the game of football have been the heart and soul of this
book since its inception in 1979.
the editors of Pro Football Weekly

Read comments on each


of the early-round picks
shortly after they are
chosen, and see a
????
real-time list of picks
as they are made.
At the conclusion of
the draft, well have
round-by-round and
www.profootballweekly.com
team-by-team lists.

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updates
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OVERVIEW

3/5/08

7:28 PM

Page 4

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW

SPORTPICS

DRAFT OVERVIEW

DRAFT OVERVIEW

his years draft does not feature a true marquee talent the
way the past two have, but after a massive early entrance of
juniors the overall depth improved significantly. Headlining
are three seniors: Boston College QB Matt Ryan, Michigan
OLT Jake Long and LSU DT Glenn Dorsey.
Ryan is a potential franchise quarterback whose impressive
stature and strong, accurate arm are perhaps even surpassed by his
phenomenal intangibles namely pocket presence, toughness,
leadership, intelligence and poise. Long is built like a redwood, yet
is deceptively athletic and arguably has been the most dominant
offensive lineman in college football over the past two seasons.
Dorsey, a 300-pound dancing bear, is one of the most dominant run
defenders in college football in the past decade.
Ohio States Vernon Gholston and Virgnias Chris Long both
possess superior pass-rush ability and could project to rush linebacker. Gholston is a freakish talent who showed he could take
over games when he wanted to. Long dominated with a very pol- Matt Ryan l BOSTON COLLEGE
ished repertoire of pass-rush moves. Both have top-10 talent and
lead what is a strong, deep DE class. The DT crop is much weaker overall.
Their offensive counterparts interior O-linemen are even more difficult to find this year, especially at center. On the edges, however, there is quality and depth with as many as six tackles capable
of fitting into the first round.
Juniors top the RB class. Arkansas Darren McFadden is the most special athlete of the skill group
but he also has some of the biggest concerns, with a bad case of fumblitis and too many off-field distractions weighing him down. Oregons Jonathan Stewart might be the most well-rounded back in the
draft. Illinois Rashard Mendenhall gives the class three legitimate workhorses.
There is no special talent at receiver or tight end. The WR class is one of the slowest in some time.
Theres some depth at tight end. The QB class falls off after Ryan and might not feature another firstrounder. Cornerback, with strong help from juniors and the emergence of some small-school talent,
has turned out to be solid. It is a much weaker year at safety, however, in a group that would have been
abysmal if not for the early entry of two juniors, Miami (Fla.)s Kenny Phillips and North Carolina
States DaJuan Morgan.

QUARTERBACKS Matt Ryan really


emerged as a senior and separated himself from
the rest of an average overall class. He is
extremely intelligent, has a great understanding
of the game and has demonstrated the toughness
and prerequisite intangibles to become great. He
is well versed in a pro-style offense, makes good
decisions, gets rid of the ball quickly and thrives
under pressure. Most impressive about his career
was how he played with a broken bone in his
foot for most of his junior season and willed a
team with very average talent around him to victory as a senior. Michigans Chad Henne and
Louisvilles Brian Brohm are both very experienced field generals. Henne is the tougher of the
two and fits the traditional mold of UM quarterbacks big, strong-armed and instinctive.
Brohm might be the most prolific passer in the
class but could be limited by injuries and average arm strength. Delawares Joe Flacco has the
strongest arm but must transition to playing
against far better competition. Kentuckys
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Andre Woodson and San Diegos Josh Johnson


could be three years from contributing, but both
are very physically talented, albeit different,
with Woodson being strictly a pocket passer and
Johnson doing his best work on the move.
USCs John David Booty and Tennessees Erik
Ainge have athletic bloodlines and come from
high-profile programs but have yet to take the
next step in their development.
RUNNING BACKS Enhanced by the addition
of seven talented juniors, the RB crop is both
strong and deep and likely will feature four firstround picks. Oregon junior Jonathan Stewart is
235 pounds of muscle and power and the most
complete back in the draft. Stewart also boasts
good hands and blocking ability. Arkansas junior
Darren McFadden is supremely gifted in the
mold of Eric Dickerson, but he must overcome a
slew of off-field concerns that might not keep
him from winning Rookie of the Year honors but
could make his success very short-lived. Illinois
junior Rashard Mendenhall is built like a tank

7:28 PM

Page 5

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


and blends tremendous power and speed. He can
be a bellcow if he wants. Speedster Felix Jones
was overshadowed by McFadden at Arkansas
but is more versatile and made more NFL-type
runs. Jones also possesses home-run ability as a
kick returner. Blending power, instincts and
enough speed, Tulanes hard-charging Matt
Fort, Georgia Techs supercompetitive Tashard
Choice and Rutgers bowling ball Ray Rice all
could become solid pros. Texas Jamaal Charles
and East Carolinas Chris Johnson can flat-out
fly and are best-suited as space players and
return specialists.

WIDE RECEIVERS Size rules the top of a


wide receiver class laden with juniors. Texas
senior Limas Sweed is a big body who can get
downfield, and Oklahomas Malcolm Kelly and
Indianas James Hardy both project as surehanded, complementary possession receivers
capable of dominating in the red zone. Michigan
States Devin Thomas is an explosive, musclebound, one-year wonder loaded with upside if he
can stay focused. Michigans Mario
Manningham is as talented as any receiver in the
pack but must overcome character and off-field
issues. Kansas States Jordy Nelson and LSUs
Early Doucet both catch the ball very well and
run hard. Cals DeSean Jackson, Floridas Andre
Caldwell and Appalachian States Dexter Jackson all can burn and bring exciting return potential.
TIGHT ENDS Devoid of elite talent, the TE
class does feature some depth. Purdues Dustin
Keller and Notre Dames John Carlson are very
reliable underneath threats and excellent workers, although Keller possesses more big-play
capability. Texas A&Ms Martellus Bennett
might be the best all-around tight end in the
draft. USCs Fred Davis is athletically gifted but
short on character. Californias Craig Stevens is
the best blocker of the group and a load to bring
down as a receiver. Tennessees Brad Cottam is
a gargantuan pass catcher and is athletic for his
size but must prove he can stay healthy.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN The crop is headlined
by Michigans Jake Long, Boise States Ryan
Clady and Pittsburghs Jeff Otah three potential franchise left tackles. Clady is the most naturally athletic and longest-armed of the group,
although Long and Otah play with more power.
Vanderbilts Chris Williams is very athletic and
solid in pass protection but short-armed and soft,
similar to USCs Sam Baker. Both could line up
on the left side in the pros, though. Boston
Colleges Gosder Cherilus has OLT traits but
likely will be best on the right side, where he
looked most comfortable as a junior. Virginias
Branden Albert, projected as the top guard, also
has OLT tools with great feet and agility and
could be drafted to play outside.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Boosted by a strong


junior presence, this years class is rich at the top
and could feature as many as eight defensive
linemen in the first round. Depth and quality is
much stronger outside than it is inside. Dominating LSU 3-technique Glenn Dorsey and
USCs stout NT Sedrick Ellis headline what is a
very weak interior class in terms of depth. Outside, Ohio States Vernon Gholston might be the
most talented player in the draft, but Virginias
Chris Long is more polished and NFL-ready and
could be the safest pick in the entire draft. Floridas Derrick Harvey, Clemsons Phillip Merling
and Miami (Fla.)s Calais Campbell all possess
the size and pass-rush ability to make an early
impact.
LINEBACKERS Salvaged by depth on the outside, the LB corps as a whole lacks star power.
USCs Keith Rivers, the top outside backer,
looks the part and should develop into a tackling
machine on the weak side in the pros. Oklahomas Curtis Lofton, meanwhile, doesnt necessarily look the part, but he plays fast, has tremendous instincts and flies around the field. Penn
States Dan Connor, Linebacker Us all-time
leading tackler, could play both inside and outside. Maryland junior Erin Henderson, a longlimbed outside backer, hopes to replicate his
brother E.J.s success on the next level. Purdues
Cliff Avril hopes to make the transition from
three-point stance to standing up, as many former
Boilermakers have before. A slew of undersized
but talented weak-side backers rounds out the
group, including Virginia Techs Xavier Adibi,
Florida State junior Geno Hayes and Colorados
Jordon Dizon.
DEFENSIVE BACKS Speed and quickness
reign at the top of an athletic class. Two smallschool CB prospects, Troys Leodis McKelvin
and Tennessee States Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, have emerged from what initially
appeared to be a class lacking elite talent. Both
boast explosive return ability, too. South Floridas Mike Jenkins and Kansas Aqib Talib are
both superb athletes with serious character concerns. Auburns Patrick Lee could fit in any type
of defense, bringing great versatility. Oklahoma
junior Reggie Smith and Virginia Tech junior
sledgehammer Brandon Flowers will fit as
instinctive cover-2 corners. A pair of promising
juniors, Miami (Fla.)s Kenny Phillips and North
Carolina States DaJuan Morgan, head a very
average safety crop.
SPECIALISTS Georgia Techs Durant
Brooks, recipient of the Ray Guy Award, is the
top punter. North Carolina States Steven
Hauschka, talented but relatively unknown, is
the top kicker. Leodis McKelvin and DeSean
Jackson possess dynamic return ability.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

DRAFT OVERVIEW

3/5/08

DRAFT OVERVIEW

OVERVIEW

QBs 2008 LO

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Page 6

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

QUARTERBACKS
PFWS TOP

10

QUARTERBACKS

1. MATT RYAN
2. Chad Henne
3. Brian Brohm
4. Joe Flacco
5. Andre Woodson
6. John David Booty
7. Erik Ainge
8. Josh Johnson
9. Dennis Dixon
10. Kevin OConnell

EDITORS NOTE:
E Height, weight and speed are estimated.
e Only the 40-yard-dash time is estimated.
On all positions, 40-yard-dash times are curved
to take conditions into account. For instance, a 4.4
40 on a very fast rubber track would be recorded as
a 4.52, while a 4.6 on slow grass would be logged
as a 4.5.

QB ERIK

AINGE

(6-512, 225, 5.04) TENNESSEE

Notes: Uncle, Danny Ainge, played 14 seasons in the NBA (1981-95) and currently serves
as executive director of basketball operations for
the Boston Celtics. Father, Doug, is a basketball
coach at Linfield College. Erik was named Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year after racking up
3,078 passing yards, 24 touchdowns and eight
interceptions as a high school senior. Also lettered in basketball and baseball. Started 6-of-9
games in which he played as a true freshman in
2004, overtaking Brent Schaffer by the fourth
game of the season before succumbing to a season-ending shoulder injury against Notre Dame.
Completed 109-of-198 pass attempts (55.1 percent) for 1,452 yards and a school-freshmanw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

record 17 touchdowns with nine interceptions.


Returned to start 5-of-8 games in which he
played in 05, rotating with senior Rick Clausen
and finishing with 66-145-737-5-7 (45.5). In
06, he started 12-of-13 games, missing the
Arkansas contest with a sprained ankle, amassing 233-348-2,989-19-9 (67.0). Tore the meniscus in his right knee while weightlifting in
March of 07 and had surgery later in the month
to remove the torn cartilage. Recovered from the
knee injury and managed to start all 14 games,
despite breaking the pinky on his throwing hand
prior to the season opener, and finished with
325-519-3,522-31-10 (62.6). Was named South
team offensive MVP in the Senior Bowl after
leading a last-minute drive for the win.
Positives: Very good height. Scans the field,
finds open receivers and can throw with touch. Is
smart. Understands the game and can process a
playbook quickly. Distributes the ball well in the
short-passing game.
Negatives: Tends to throw the ball with a
loose wobble and lines too many throws that
could use touch too many balls come out of
his hand with a downward trajectory and get batted. Inconsistent ball placement. Has a thin
lower body and has been dinged up a lot
throughout his career. Limited mobility and ath-

2:46 PM

Page 7

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


leticism to escape the rush. Struggles to throw
with accuracy on the move and shows marginal
deep accuracy lacks touch and can get very
rattled under pressure. Hurried decision-maker
who will force the ball. Questionable mental and
physical toughness does not like to be hit or
play through injury.
Summary: Made considerable strides as a
senior but remains a streaky performer with
questionable toughness to hold down a pro starting job over a grueling 16-game season. Could
stick as a career backup and be a solid relief
pitcher who can get a team through a couple
games. Needs to get stronger mentally and physically to ever reach his potential.

vision makes half-field reads and misses open


receivers. Locks onto receivers, forces the ball
into coverage and make some questionable decisions. Will require some time to grasp an NFL
playbook and must learn to apply himself more
to the game.
Summary: Well-coached West Coast rhythm
passer with enough arm and short-to-intermediate accuracy to develop into an average starter if
he is surrounded by a strong supporting cast like
he was throughout his college career and given a
lot of predetermined reads. Could take some
time to adapt to the pro game.

QB COLT

BRENNAN

(6-238, 207, 4.75e) HAWAII

QB JOHN

DAVID BOOTY

(6-238, 218, 4.92) USC

Notes: A coachs son. Father, Johnny, played


quarterback at Arkansas, Louisiana Tech and
Mississippi State. Brother, Josh, played in the
minor leagues for the Florida Marlins (1994-98)
before moving on to play quarterback at LSU
(1999-2000) and with the Cleveland Browns
(02). Brother, Abram, was a wide receiver at
LSU (1997-99) and Valdosta State (2001). John
David played high school varsity football as a
seventh-grader because of unique Louisiana state
rule that allows junior-high students to compete
on high school teams if the school houses students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Graduated a full year early from high school.
Saw limited duty in five games as a true freshman in 03, completing 7-of-14 passes (50.0 percent) for 90 yards before suffering a broken left
wrist and sitting out the final two games. Sustained a bruised right (throwing) elbow in 04 fall
practice and redshirted. Appeared in 10 games
behind current Arizona Cardinals QB Matt
Leinart in 05 and tossed 27-42-327 (64.3) with
three touchdowns and two interceptions. Missed
almost all of spring practice in 06 because of a
herniated disk that required surgery. As a team
captain, recovered in time to start all 13 games,
throwing 269-436-3,347-29-9 (61.7). Tied a
Rose Bowl record with four touchdown passes
and his 391 passing yards were the most given up
by a Michigan defense since 99. Started all 10
games in which he played in 07, missing three
contests after breaking the middle finger on his
throwing hand vs. Stanford. Managed to finish
the game despite the injury. Amassed 215-3402,361-23-10 (63.2) on the season and set a Rose
Bowl career record with seven touchdowns, after
throwing for three scores this year vs. Illinois.
Positives: Good mechanics solid footwork
and delivery. Nice timing and touch. Shows
poise in the pocket. Gets rid of the ball quickly.
Fine short-to-intermediate accuracy.
Negatives: Average athlete. Not nifty-footed
in the pocket and the ball tends to flutter and lose
velocity when he is on the move rolling out.
Does not throw with zip or velocity and struggles to connect on the deep ball. Average field

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Attended Worcester Polytech in 2002. Originally
attended Colorado, where he redshirted during
the 03 season. In February 04, he was arrested
on felony burglary and trespassing charges and
misdemeanor sexual assault and indecent exposure charges after allegedly walking uninvited
into a female students dorm room and sexually
assaulting her. Pled not guilty but was convicted
on both felony counts and sentenced to seven
days in jail, 60 hours of community service and
four years probation and was dismissed from
Colorado. That fall, he transferred to Saddleback
Community College (Calif.). In 05, he transferred to Hawaii and started 10-of-12 games,
completing 350-of-515 passes (68.0 percent) for
4,301 yards, 35 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Tied or broke 11 Hawaii football records.
Led the country in total offense (4,455 yards) and
TD passes. Started all 14 games in 06, tossing
406-559-5,549-58-12 (72.6) and rushing 86
times for 366 yards (4.3-yard average) and five
touchdowns. Broke the NCAA record for most
TD passes in a season (58) and in two seasons
(93) and pass-efficiency rating in a single season
(186.0). Broke or tied 16 NCAA records, 10
WAC records and 25 school records. Sat out the
fourth quarter in six games. Named the 06 WAC
Offensive Player of the Year and a third-team AllAmerican (AP). Finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting. Started 11-of-12 games in which he
played in 07, missing the Charleston Southern
contest with a sprained right ankle. Totaled 359510-4,343-38-17 (70.4) and set the NCAA career
marks for touchdown passes (131) and touchdowns responsible (146) and finished third in
Heisman Trophy voting.
Positives: Quick-triggered and agile to throw
on the run and from awkward positions while
escaping pressure. Can throw with touch and
accuracy and hit receivers in stride. Outstanding
production.
Negatives: Has a very lean build and does not
like to work in the weight room. Played in a very
simplified, one-read offense that did not require
him to make NFL-type reads and will require a
significant learning curve. Has an unconventional throwing motion, often releases the ball low
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

QUARTERBACKS

3/5/08

QUARTERBACKS

QBs 2008 LO

QBs 2008 LO

3/5/08

2:46 PM

QUARTERBACKS

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


and has too many balls batted down. Throws the
ball with a loose wobble and has marginal deep
accuracy. Has not faced elite competition and
struggled when he did (see bowl game vs. Georgia). Character and work habits are questionable.
Summary: Went from 185 pounds at the
Senior Bowl to 207 at the Combine, raising red
flags. Has excelled in a system tailor-made to his
talents but does not have the mental makeup,
toughness or intangibles desired to achieve at the
pro level.

QB ALEX

BRINK

(6-214, 211, 5.0) WASHINGTON STATE

Notes: Has already graduated. Also lettered in


baseball in high school. Redshirted in 2003.
Started the final 5-of-11 games in 04 as an injury
replacement and completed 97-of-194 passes
(50.0 percent) for 1,305 yards, seven touchdowns
and five interceptions. Started all 11 games in
05, tossing 205-358-2,891-24-13 (57.3). Started
all 12 games in 06, completing 241-396-2,89919-10 (60.9). Underwent postseason arthroscopic
surgery on his left ankle, but he is now fully
recovered. Voted team captain in 07. Started all
12 games in 07 and totaled 303-499-3,792-26-15
(60.7) to rank first in school history and fourth in
Pac-10 history in passing yards.
Positives: Very smart. Knows where to go
with the ball and can keep his cool under duress.
Solid decision-maker. Carries the ball high on
the shelf and can get rid of it quickly underneath.
Shows some athleticism to escape pressure. Has
been very durable has not missed any time in
three and half years as starter.
Negatives: Thin and has a lanky frame with
small hands. Average size and arm strength. Has
to wind up to throw it deep and accuracy suffers
the farther he has to throw it. Will throw the ball
up for grabs and force it into coverage. Needs
space to operate and too often throws off the
mark when the pocket is not clean. Struggles to
create on the move.
Summary: A smart dink-and-dunk passer with
limited physical tools. Could make a living holding a clipboard.

QB BRIAN

BROHM

(6-278, 230, 4.85) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Father, Oscar, and brothers, Greg and


Jeff, also played football at Louisville. Jeff
played two seasons for the San Francisco 49ers
(1996-97) and currently serves as the QB coach
and passing-game coordinator for the Cardinals.
Greg is Louisvilles director of football operations. Brian was named USA Today Offensive
Player of the Year, Gatorade Player of the Year,
Parade All-American and Kentuckys Mr. Football as a high school senior. Also won three state
football titles, set the state record for completion
percentage (65.2 percent) and finished second in
state history in career passing yards (10,579) and
career touchdowns (119). Selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 49th round of the 2004 MLB
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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Brian Brohm

l LOUISVILLE

draft and also lettered in basketball as a prep. As


a true freshman in 04, backed up Carolina Panthers 05 fourth-round pick Stefan LeFors,
appearing in 11-of-12 games and completing 66of-98 attempts (67.3 percent) for 819 yards, six
touchdowns and two interceptions. Started all 10
games he played in 05, missing the final two
contests after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee against Syracuse. Posted
207-301-2,883-19-5 (68.8) and ranked second in
the nation in passing efficiency en route to Big
East Offensive Player of the Year honors (coaches). Returned from the knee injury in 06 to start
all 11 games in which he played, missing starts
against Kansas State and Middle Tennessee State
after tearing ligaments in his right thumb against
Miami (Fla.) and undergoing surgery. Is doublejointed and did not have a problem gripping the
ball. Finished throwing 199-313-3,049-16-5
(63.6). Underwent surgery on his left (non-throwing) labrum in January of 07 but returned in time
to participate in spring practice. Started all 12
games in the fall and finished with 308-4734,024-30-12 (65.1), setting the school single-season record for touchdown passes.
Positives: Very experienced and has a good
understanding of the game. Good football intelligence has played in multiple offenses and
has shown he can handle checks and audibles.
Very determined with great work habits. Stands
in the pocket, keeps his shoulders squared and
has shown he can read the field and work
through progressions. Sees the field well and can
hasten his delivery when needed. Can throw
with touch and take pace off the ball. Plays with
awareness. Very quietly competitive.
Negatives: Average athlete struggles to
sidestep the rush and consequently has been
injured frequently throughout his career. Arm
strength is just OK has to really wind up to
chuck it deep. Throws with little hip snap, power

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or velocity. Has short arms, tends to drop the ball
and has a low release point that has resulted in
too many batted balls. Inconsistent ball placement, especially when he is forced to move in
the pocket. Is not a vocal, commanding or
engaging leader.
Summary: Missed the Senior Bowl to rest a
lower leg injury. Long-term durability remains a
considerable issue given his lack of mobility.
Individuality has been quashed in an overly
demanding environment with his older brothers
on staff, and he could be best entering an environment with low expectations. Could struggle
to live up to the billing of a first-round pick but
is the type of competitor who will bust his tail to
prove wrong every team that passed him. Intelligence and experience will tempt a QB-needy
team to consider him in the first round, and he
could become a solid starter with good protection. His injury history, limited escapability and
leadership style could make a team regret investing too much. Could be most successful if not
pressed into action early.

QB BRANDON

COX

(6-112, 204, 4.81) AUBURN

Notes: Set an Alabama prep state record with


a career .687 completion percentage as a fouryear starter. Also lettered in basketball and baseball, where he was a standout pitcher. Joined the
team in December and participated in the bowl
practice and spring workouts. Redshirted in
2003. Saw backup duty in seven games in 04,
completing 22-of-34 passes (64.7 percent) for
357 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. Started 11 games in 05, tossing 177-3062,324-15-8 (57.8). Sat out vs. Western Kentucky
due to illness. Started all 13 games and earned
second-team All-Southeastern Conference
(coaches) honors in 06 after completing 163271-2,198-14-9 (60.1 percent). Started 12-of-13
games in 07, coming off the bench vs. New
Mexico State after being demoted the week prior
vs. Mississippi State. Totaled 188-316-2,080-913 (59.5) on the season. Suffers from Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular condition that
results in weakness of the skeletal or voluntary
muscles in the body. Must take medicine to control the symptoms.
Positives: Is fairly athletic to move around the
pocket and find open throwing lanes. Sets quickly on three- and five-step drops. Has shown
some moxie in two-minute situations and is
smart enough to manage a game.
Negatives: Is short. Has a very frail frame and
struggles to throw the ball with velocity. Lacks
arm strength to throw deep. Tends to hold on to
the ball too long and delivery is a bit slow and
elongated, resulting in too many sacks. Does not
see the field well and often bird-dogs his primary target. Average accuracy. Does not feel pressure well. Average toughness. Long-term durability is a concern.
Summary: A functional college quarterback

who lacks the size, arm strength, instincts and


accuracy needed at the pro level. Durability
issues could limit the southpaws chance.

QB-ATH DENNIS

DIXON

(6-314, 195, 4.6e) OREGON

Notes: Parade All-American who threw for


5,951 yards and 79 touchdowns as a prep and
also lettered in baseball. Selected by the Cincinnati Reds as an outfielder in the 20th round of
the 2003 MLB draft. Consequently delayed
enrollment at Oregon until the winter of 04.
Appeared in 6-of-11 games that season behind
the New York Jets Kellen Clemens, completing
6-of-15 pass attempts (40.0 percent) for 73 yards
and rushing 10- times for 40 yards. In 05,
replaced an injured Clemens against Arizona
and sustained a concussion four snaps after
entering the game. Returned to start the next
four games and finished with 69-104-777 (66.3),
six touchdowns and three interceptions and
rushed 49 times for 143 yards (2.9-yard average)
and one touchdown. Started 11-of-12 games in
which he played in 06 and compiled 197-3222,143-12-14 (61.2), but he was pulled in favor of
backup Brady Leaf for the final two games of
the season. Did not work out at Oregon in the
summer after being drafted by the Atlanta
Braves in the fifth round of the 07 MLB draft,
spending the summer training with the Braves
minor-league affiliate in Orlando. Started all 10
games in which he played in 07, missing the
final three contests with a torn left anterior cruciate ligament sustained vs. Arizona State. Managed to finish the Arizona State contest and tried
to play the following week vs. Arizona, before
the knee finally gave way. Passed for 172-2542,136-20-4 (67.7) and rushed 105-583-9 (5.6).
Positives: Natural, fluid-moving athlete. Has
a compact delivery, gets rid of the ball quickly
and can throw from a variety of angles. Has a
loose arm to flick the ball downfield with ease.
Really sells play-action and is a legitimate threat
on the move. Outstanding quickness to sidestep
and elude the rush. Is tough and will play
through pain. Quietly competitive.
Negatives: Is very slight-framed. Timing and
anticipation are consistently off makes his
receivers work for the ball. Does not take pace
off the ball and fires at high velocity from short
range. Aims the ball. Operated an overly simplified offense than allowed for quick decisions to
be made without having to read the field. Footwork is too inconsistent and he has a tendency to
rely on his arm strength. Durability is a concern
coming off a serious knee injury with a narrow
frame that lacks bulk. Not a very vocal, takecharge leader. Could be distracted by baseball
pursuits.
Summary: Raw passer who will require
patience and considerable grooming to adapt to
a pro-style offense. Showed improvement as a
decision-maker as a senior under new offensive
coordinator Chip Kelly, carrying the offense.
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Dixons running ability could open up the passing game and ease his maturation. Has enough
tools to develop if he continues to work at the
craft. Needs more time in the weight room.

QB TYLER

DONOVAN

(5-1134, 188, 4.77) WISCONSIN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in
five games in 04 and completed 2-of-3 passes
(66.7 percent) for seven yards and rushed 11
times for 117 yards (10.6-yard average). Saw
action in three games in 05, tossing 3-6-49
(50.0) and one touchdown and carrying 5-30
(6.0) and one touchdown. Started 2-of-7 games
in 06 and completed 37-58-564-4 (63.8) and
two interceptions and rushed 25-55-0 (2.2).
Started all 13 games in 07 and finished with
193-333-2,607-17-11 (58.0).
Positives: Very tough. Plays through pain.
Solid character. Good intangibles. Is very agile
on his feet to move around the pocket and find
open throwing lanes. Can create with his feet.
Plays smart.
Negatives: Is too small in stature and will
struggle to see the field in the pros. Does not
throw with much velocity. Average field vision.
Too often is forced to throw the ball up for grabs.
Summary: A winner who will always be
dogged for his lack of size and arm strength,
Donovan would be best in a heavy play-action
offense where he could be used on the move,
rolling out and on bootlegs. Could fight for a job
in a camp.

QB JOE

FLACCO

(6-638, 236, 4.85) DELAWARE

Notes: Father, Stephen, played football and


baseball at the University of Pennsylvania. Joe
finished as the fourth-ranked career passing
yards leader in South Jersey prep history and
also lettered in baseball. Enrolled at Pittsburgh
and redshirted in 2003. Played 3-of-12 games in
04 and completed 1-of-4 passes (25 percent) for
11 yards. Transferred to Delaware in 05 to get
more playing time and sat out the season after
not obtaining a scholarship release from Pittsburgh. Took over as the starter in all 11 games in
06, completing 264-417-2,783-18-10 (63.3)
and rushing for five touchdowns. Earned Colonial Athletic Association co-Offensive Player of
the Year honors after starting all 15 games in 07
and compiling 331-521-4,263-23-5 (63.5) and
setting school single-season record for passing
yards and career mark for completion percentage (63.4).
Positives: Looks the part with excellent
height. Has a cannon arm and can really spin the
ball with velocity, even off balance and from his
back foot. Can laser the ball into small windows.
Is smart and has improved as a decision-maker.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Too often locks on receivers and waits for them
to uncover before throwing is not a confident,
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

quick-triggered decision-maker. Average anticipation. Is stationary in the pocket and shows little athleticism to move his feet and avoid the
rush. Can be flustered by pressure and be late to
feel it. Marginal accuracy on the move. Too
often closes his front foot when he steps into his
throws and his ball placement is erratic. Could
need some adjustment time to taking snaps from
under center. Not overly confident.
Summary: A big, traditional, rifle-armed
pocket passer who could take some time to adapt
to an NFL-style offense where he has to look off
receivers and fit the ball into tight windows.
Showed steady improvement as a senior and performed well at the Senior Bowl but is still a work
in progress. Could develop into a good pro as
long as he has time to throw.

QB MATT

FLYNN

(6-214, 231, 4.8) LSU

Notes: Played four games with a broken foot


as a high school senior. Redshirted in 2003. Saw
limited action as a reserve in 04, completing 4of-10 passes (40 percent) for 99 yards and one
touchdown. In 05, started 1-of-13 games, completing 27-of-48 passes (56.3) for 457 yards with
seven touchdowns and one interception.
Replaced an injured JaMarcus Russell in the
Peach Bowl against ninth-ranked Miami (Fla.)
and connected on 13-22-196-2-0 (59.1) and
rushed five times for 39 yards (7.8-yard average)
en route to a 40-3 victory. Backed up Russell in
06 and completed 12-20-133-2-1 (60.0) and
rushed 13-86-1 (6.6). Started all 12 games in
which he played in 07, missing the Middle Tennessee State contest with a right ankle injury and
the SEC championship game vs. Tennessee with
an injury to his right (throwing) shoulder. Finished with 202-359-2,407-21-11 (56.3).
Positives: Good athlete with a solid build.
Solid intangibles works hard and takes the
game seriously. Is tough and will play through
pain. Quick set-up and delivery. Throws with
touch and can drop the ball in the bucket. Has
some scrambling ability to escape pressure when
he feels it. Has shown he can captain a twominute drive and commanded fourth-quarter
come-from-behind victories vs. Florida, Auburn
and Alabama. Very experienced holder on kicks.
Negatives: Very raw. Shows little presence in
the pocket and is not instinctive. Late to feel
pressure and takes too many sacks. Has small
hands. Average accuracy and ball placement.
Lacks zip and velocity. Too often makes his
receivers work for the ball. Struggles to make
plays on the move once he brings down the ball.
Average decision-maker. Has a low release point
and too many balls are batted down.
Summary: Development was stalled behind
JaMarcus Russell until his senior season, when
he was slowed by a high right ankle sprain for
much of the year. A winner with the toughness,
intelligence and athleticism to continue developing, Flynn simply lacks the desired experience to

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presence. Good intangibles. Has an unquestionable passion for the game and is very mentally
and physically tough. Can throw the deep ball
with accuracy and zip it. Very experienced.
Negatives: Is not a scrambler or very quickfooted to avoid the rush. Will press, try to do too
much and force the ball into coverage. Does not
have great field vision, will miss some open
receivers and has a tendency to hang on to the
ball too long. Not a great touch passer and struggles to take pace off the ball from close range.
Varies his mechanics too much and delivery is
inconsistent. Needs a clean pocket to square his
shoulders and throw the ball. Struggles to create
plays when the pocket breaks down. Takes too
many unnecessary sacks. Accuracy has been too
inconsistent throughout his career and has been
too streaky. Lost all four games vs. Ohio State.
Summary: An incredibly tough competitor
who played most of his senior season through
injury, Henne is a winner with the arm strength,
intangibles and toughness desired in a starting
quarterback. Was very durable throughout his
career until his senior season, in which he was
never able to develop a rhythm as he played
through multiple injuries. Still needs to grow as
a decision-maker, settle down and read defenses.
A big, strong dropback passer, Henne has shown
flashes of greatness and could be a terrific pro if
he really works at it and learns to take what the
defense gives him. Could take big strides with
good coaching and would highly benefit if he
were not pressed into action immediately.

run an NFL offense. Has clear physical tools to


mold. Could be a solid backup.

QB CHAD

HENNE

(6-278, 230, 4.94) MICHIGAN

Notes: Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the


Year. Also lettered in basketball and track as a
prep. Started all 12 games in 2004 and became
the second true freshman in school history to
start the season opener (the other was Rick
Leach in 1975). Completed 240-of-399 pass
attempts (60.2 percent) for 2,743 yards, 25
touchdowns and 12 interceptions, highlighted by
a Rose Bowl-record-tying four touchdowns
against Texas. Started all 12 games in 05, tossing 223-382-2,526-23-8 (58.4). Started all 13
games in 06, throwing 203-328-2,508-22-8
(61.9). Started all 10 games in which he played
in 07, missing the Notre Dame and Penn State
contests with a right knee sprain sustained vs.
Oregon. Separated his right (throwing) shoulder
against Illinois, took a cortisone shot and
returned to rally the Wolverines to victory.
Missed the Minnesota game but returned vs.
Michigan State, when he sprained his ankle, and
vs. Wisconsin and Ohio State after not practicing
or being able to throw until he received a cortisone shot before game time. Totaled 162-2781,938-17-9 (58.3). Finished as the schools
career leader in completions (828), passing
yards (9,715) and touchdown passes (87).
Positives: Has a strong build with a very good
arm and an over-the-top release. Has moxie and
commands respect in the huddle. Good on-field

QB NICK

HILL

LES BENTLEY

(6-258, 214, 4.84) SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Chad Henne

l MICHIGAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Attended Western Kentucky on a basketball
scholarship in 2003 and averaged 1.7 points in 23
games. Transferred to SIU and redshirted in 04.
Played four games in reserve in 05, completing
15-of-20 passes (75.0 percent) for 288 yards and
three touchdowns and no interceptions and
rushed nine times for 102 yards (11.3-yard average) and one touchdown. Started all 13 games in
06 and tossed 121-196-1,721-15-4 (61.7) and
carried 91-382-6 (4.2). Started all 14 games in
07 and passed 258-361-3,175-28-7 (71.5).
Positives: Good intangibles. Smart and hardworking. Takes the game seriously and can rally
his teammates. Moves around fairly well and
can throw with accuracy on the move. Took big
strides as a decision-maker as a senior and
shows some improvisational skills. Impressive
field general. Shows enough foot quickness to
pick up positive yardage and knows when to run.
Shows some instincts to keep the sticks moving
and sustain a drive.
Negatives: Has not faced great competition.
Average arm strength. Has an elongated release
and takes time to get rid of the ball. Ball has a
tendency to nosedive and too often is low, limiting his receivers after the catch. Average athlete.
Too often does not set his feet to throw and his
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release point is inconsistent.
Summary: Solid southpaw with a knack for
taking what the defense gives him with his arm
or feet. Did not play in a sophisticated NFL-style
offense and will require some patience but has
shown enough toughness and the intangibles to
continue developing.

QB JOSH

JOHNSON

maker who is considerably further in his development at this stage of his career than Vikings
2006 second-rounder Tarvaris Jackson. Might
have made a mint at the East-West Shrine game,
when he fared well against better competition.
Could take a few years to digest an NFL playbook, but could be very effective in a West Coast
offense and develop into a dynamic starter. Has
as much upside as any passer in the draft.

(6-234, 213, 4.55) SAN DIEGO

Notes: Did not play as a high school junior


because of a fractured right ankle. Also lettered
in basketball and track as a prep. Saw limited
action in eight games as a true freshman in 2004,
completing 12-of-22 passes (54.5 percent) for
135 yards and one interception. Started all 12
games in 05 and tossed 260-371-3,256 (70.1)
and 36 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Also
rushed 86 times for 376 yards (4.4-yard average)
and four touchdowns and earned Pioneer Football League North Division Player of the Year
accolades. Started all 12 games in 06, throwing
246-371-3,320-34-5 (66.3) and carrying 107720-11 (6.7). Led Division I-AA in total offense
(336.7 yards per game), total passing yards
(3,320), passing efficiency (169.0) and points
responsible (24.33 per game) en route to PFL
Offensive Player of the Year honors. Started all
10 games in which he played in 07, missing the
season opener vs. Azusa Pacific for violation of
team rules. Passed for 206-301-2,988-43-1
(68.4), finishing first in Football Championship
Series in total offense (371.4), passing efficiency
(198.3) and points responsible for (27.4). Also
set the NCAA career passing efficiency rating
record (176.68) and finished third in Walter Payton Award voting as the top player in FCS. Was
named the MVP of the East-West Shrine game.
Positives: Dominated Division I-AA/FCS
level of competition. Has played in a pro-style
offense under Jim Harbaugh. Outstanding quickness to easily escape the rush. Very quick release
and can alter his release to deliver the ball effectively. Outstanding improvisational skills.
Shows impressive body control. Throws with
great accuracy on the move and shows the poise,
awareness and wherewithal to keep his eyes
downfield scanning the field to create plays.
Good field vision. Smart and hardworking.
Makes good decisions and takes very good care
of the ball. Continually comes through in the
clutch and has performed well under pressure.
Very confident team leader. Is coachable and has
a passion for the game. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and is too wiry. Has
not faced much in the way of competition and
his statistics are grossly inflated from facing
unsophisticated defenses. Does not throw a tight
spiral and could learn to throw with more touch
from short distances. Too often does not set his
feet to throw even when he has time to do so.
Comes from a rough part of Oakland and could
be dragged down by hangers-on.
Summary: A very athletic, quick-footed playw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

QB SAM

KELLER

(6-358, 241, 5.02) NEBRASKA

Notes: Father, Mike, played linebacker at


Michigan and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round of the 1972 NFL draft,
playing one season. Father has held positions in
NFL management and helped form the nowdefunct XFL. Sam also lettered in basketball as a
prep. Began college career at Arizona State.
Appeared in six games as a true freshman in
2003 and completed 23-of-43 passes (53.5 percent) for 247 yards, one touchdown and one
interception. Continued backing up Oakland
Raiders 2005 third-round choice Andrew Walter
in 04, passing 42-71-606-5-1 (59.2). In 05,
started the first seven games and passed 155-2642,165-20-9 (58.7), throwing four TDs in each of
the first four games, including 35-56-461-4-0
(62.5) against LSU, before tearing ligaments in
his right thumb against Oregon and being
shelved for the season. In 06 spring practice, he
competed with Rudy Carpenter (the nations QB
efficiency leader in 05) and lost the starting job.
Transferred to Nebraska and sat out the season in
accordance with NCAA regulations. Named the
Cornhuskers Offensive Scout Team MVP. Was
cited for disturbing the peace in March of 07
after a woman reportedly reached a parking spot
before him. According to the woman who filed
the complaint, Keller got out of his car, began
screaming profanities and threw a plastic cup at
the victims car. Keller left the area and was later
cited by police. Started all nine games in which
he played in 07, missing the final three contests
of the season with a left shoulder injury and
totaled 205-325-2,422-14-10 (63.1).
Positives: Has good size and a solid build.
Has played in multiple pro-style offenses under
Dirk Koetter and Bill Callahan and has a solid
understanding of the game. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Has an elongated windup and
snap-off delivery and pushes the ball. Marginal
arm strength. Does not put much zip on the ball
and his passes tend to float. Very inconsistent
footwork tends to overstride and his accuracy
suffers as a result. Makes questionable decisions. Too often forces and sprays the ball. Arrogant, thinks he is better than he is and could rub
coaches the wrong way. Lacks desirable intangibles for the QB position. Not physically tough.
Injury history is a concern has never been
able to stay healthy.
Summary: Looked very average at the EastWest Shrine game and has few redeeming quali-

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ties to excite NFL coaches. Could warrant a
chance in a camp.

QB-ATH XAVIER

LEE (Junior)

(6-4, 235, 4.7 E) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Half-brother, Anthony Kelly, plays


linebacker for the Seminoles. Father, Willie,
played defensive tackle for the Kansas City
Chiefs (1976-77). Xavier was named Floridas
Mr. Football as a high school senior, completing
188-of-304 pass attempts (61.8 percent) for
3,075 yards, 33 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Also amassed 461 yards on the ground and
13 rushing touchdowns. Set Florida state records
for passing yards (9,082), completions (594) and
touchdowns (98). Redshirted in 04. Appeared in
seven games backing up Drew Weatherford in
05, throwing 27-57-466-3-1 (47.4). Started 3of-8 games in which he played in 06 in place of
an injured Weatherford, a job Weatherford
reclaimed once healthy for the final three games
of the season. Passed 62-121-885-7-5 (51.2) and
also rushed 23 times for 84 yards (3.6). Started
3-of-4 games in which he played in 07 as a
replacement for an ineffective Weatherford
before again relinquishing the starting job due to
his own ineffectiveness. Totaled 66-124-972-5-5
(52.0) passing and 43-97 (2.3) rushing. Was suspended for two midseason games for a violation
of academic policy.
Positives: Outstanding size. Natural athlete.
Has scrambling ability and can move around the
pocket, buy time and create plays with his feet.
Has good arm strength. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Struggled to hold the starting job
and has never been a full-time starter. Very, very
raw. Could struggle to handle the complexities
of an NFL offense. Does not see the field well.
Locks onto receivers and struggles to find secondary receivers. Forces the ball. Marginal decision-maker. Consistently throws off the mark.
Rifles the ball from short range and does not
take zip off the ball when needed.
Summary: Decided to enter the draft instead
of accepting the move to tight end suggested by
Florida State offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher. Could warrant a chance as a developmental
TE prospect but is light years away as a quarterback. Physically has the ability to be molded but
will require a lot of patience and might never figure it out.

QB-WR-ATH BRET

MEYER

(6-3, 206, 4.65e) IOWA STATE

Notes: Uncle, Keith Sims, was an All-Pro


offensive lineman from 1990-2000 for the Miami
Dolphins and Washington Redskins. Also lettered
in baseball, basketball and track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started all 12 games as a redshirt
freshman in 04, completing 149-of-290 passes
(51.4 percent) for 1,926 yards, 10 touchdowns
and six interceptions and rushing 144 times for
331 yards (2.3-yard average) and two touchdowns. Started all 12 games in 05, connecting on

227-368-2,876-19-10 (61.7) and carrying 133410-1 (3.1). Started all 12 games in 06, throwing
211-374-2,546-12-12 (56.4) and rushing 137439-6 (3.2). Started all 12 games in 07 and
passed for 233-382-2,151-9-13 (61.0). All-time
ISU leader in career TD passes (50) and total
offense (10,422). Started 48 consecutive games.
Positives: Good-sized athlete. Good work
ethic. Is tough and can take a hit. Shows some
escapability in the pocket.
Negatives: Does not feel pressure well and
takes too long to get rid of the ball. Average
decision-maker. Gets jittery and does not go
through progressions. Too often forces the ball.
Takes too many unnecessary sacks. Mechanics
break down when throwing on the run and loses
accuracy on the move.
Summary: A better athlete than quarterback,
Meyer could warrant some looks as a receiver in
the pros.

QB BLAKE

MITCHELL

(6-234, 219, 4.75e) SOUTH CAROLINA

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in 5-of11 games in backup role behind Syvelle Newton
in 04 and completed 9-of-22 pass attempts (40.9
percent) for 86 yards, one touchdown and three
interceptions. Started 11-of-12 games in 05,
missing the Auburn contest with a high ankle
sprain, and finished with 186-315-2,370-17-12
(59.0). In 06, started the first two games before
being charged with simple assault for punching a
man in a bar. Was suspended and relieved by
Newton, only to reclaim the starting spot for the
final four games. Completed 135-202-1,789-106 (66.8) on the season. Started 6-of-8 games in
which he played in 07, missing the season opener vs. Louisiana-Lafayette due to a suspension
for missing too many summer-school classes.
Did not play in three contests after being
benched in favor of freshman Chris Smelley. Finished with 152-255-1,747-10-9 (59.6).
Positives: Has nice size and athleticism. Can
move around the pocket well enough to escape
the rush. Shows nice touch and solid arm
strength.
Negatives: Not a worker and does not do the
extras necessary at the quarterback position. Not
committed to his craft. Marginal intangibles.
Gets rattled too easily and does not play with
poise. Average decision-maker. Inconsistent timing and anticipation too often looks out of
sync with receivers.
Summary: Showed some potential early in his
career but must prove he is willing to pay the
price to earn an NFL job.

QB ANTHONY

MORELLI

(6-358, 231, 5.09) PENN STATE

Notes: Named to USA Today Top 25 Supreme


Team after recording 5,255 career passing yards
and 57 touchdowns as a prep. Also lettered in
basketball. Appeared in 5-of-11 games in
reserve as a true freshman in 2004, completing
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5-of-13 passes (38.5 percent) for 45 yards and
one interception. Saw action in 6-of-11 games in
05 behind San Francisco 49ers 06 fourth-round
pick Michael Robinson and completed 13-20155-1-0 (65.0). In 06, started all 13 games and
completed 208-386-2,424-11-8 (53.9). Sustained a concussion vs. Wisconsin but returned
the following week. Started all 13 games in 07
and threw 234-402-2,651-19-10 (58.2), setting
Nittany Lions single-season records for completions and pass attempts. Is the only Penn State
signalcaller to pass for more than 2,000 yards
twice in a career.
Positives: Has outstanding size and a very
strong arm. Can get rid of the ball quickly when
needed and is capable of making every throw.
Negatives: Gets rattled too easily and misses
open receivers too often. Does not play with
much awareness, holds on to the ball and panics.
Forces the ball in coverage. Does not throw with
balance in his feet, and his throws tend to sail.
Struggles to throw with accuracy deep or on the
move. Footwork needs considerable work. Has
struggled in high-pressure situations and has not
shown the mental toughness desired at the position. Not elusive against the rush. Needs to
become more of a student of the game.
Summary: A very erratic, strong-armed pocket passer who has struggled to handle pressure
throughout his career and has not shown the
poise needed to play on a big stage. Has the size
and arm strength to stick on an NFL roster but
may never be more than a backup at best and
might have to fight to hold a roster spot if he
does not correct his footwork and learn to work
at his craft.

QB-WR BERNARD

MORRIS

(6-3, 223, 4.74) MARSHALL

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep. Originally an invited walk-on.
Redshirted in 2003. Saw limited action at both
quarterback and wide receiver in three games in
04, attempting one pass and rushing five times
for 21 yards (4.2-yard average). Was arrested
midseason for striking a woman with a beer bottle at a nightclub. Pleaded guilty to misdemeanor
battery and was given 12 months probation.
Took over the starting job in the second game in
05 and started 6-of-9 games in which he played,
completing 114-of-216 passes (52.8 percent) for
1,121 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions and rushing 75-264-4 (3.5). Missed three
contests with turf toe on his left foot. Started all
11 games in which he played in 06, tossing 116188-1,346-8-12 (61.7) and carrying 82-324-2
(4.0), missing the East Carolina contest with a
sprained right ankle. Started 11-of-12 games in
which he played in 07, entering the New Hampshire contest just prior to halftime after sitting
out with a toe injury. Threw for 253-398-3,14917-10 (63.6) and rushed 130-488-4 (3.8).
Positives: Good athlete. Can buy extra time
with his feet and shows some improvisational
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

skills on the move. Has enough arm strength.


Can throw with touch. Good competitor.
Negatives: Lacks poise in the pocket. Has a
tendency to pull down the ball at first flash of
coverage. Marginal decision-maker too often
throws into coverage. Makes his receivers work
hard for the ball. Uses too much touch, and his
accuracy diminishes the farther he has to throw.
Average accuracy.
Summary: Former walk-on who has had to
fight for the starting job every year and has
shown gradual improvement. Opened some eyes
at the East-West Shrine game and could warrant
a chance to develop as a quarterback.

QB KEVIN

OCONNELL

(6-5, 225, 4.64) SAN DIEGO STATE

Notes: Posted 1,950 passing yards and 19


touchdowns as a high school senior after missing
part of his junior year with injury. Also lettered
in basketball. Redshirted in 2003. Started the
final 5-of-11 games over incumbent Matt Dlugolecki in 04 after leading the Aztecs to a
fourth-quarter rally against Colorado State.
Completed 115-of-236 pass attempts (48.7 percent) for 1,328 yards, nine touchdowns and nine
interceptions. Started all 12 games in 05 and
totaled 233-375-2,663-19-12 (62.1), including a
33-51-421-3-1 (64.7) performance in the season
finale against Hawaii. In 06, tore ligaments in
his right thumb in the season opener against
UTEP. Underwent surgery and returned to start
the final 4-of-5 games, registering 59-101-6353-5 (58.4). Beat out Kevin Craft in spring practice and earned the starting nod for 07. Started
all 12 games, recording 257-439-3,063-15-8
(58.5) and rushing 134 times for 426 yards (3.2yard average) and 11 touchdowns, leading the
team in rushing. Finished as the schools career
leader in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns
by a quarterback.
Positives: Has good length to see the field and
moves very well for his size. Smart and competitive. Can throw the ball with zip and really spin
it. Fine accuracy. Has good footwork in the
pocket. Can throw with accuracy on the run.
Solid character. Has become more of a leader
and has shown continued improvement as a
decision-maker under the tutelage of Chuck
Long. Well-respected leader.
Negatives: Too streaky. Tends to spray the
ball and is not a very controlled, accurate passer.
Has a long delivery and takes longer than he
should to release the ball. Not a quick-triggered
decision-maker. Relies too much on his
receivers throws too much to areas and will
hang the ball in the air. Has been dinged up a lot
throughout his career. Did not face great competition.
Summary: Has all the physical tools to develop, but mechanics will require more work to correct accuracy deficiencies. Carried the offense as
a senior with a weak supporting cast and flashed
the arm strength and athleticism at the East-West

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QB THOMAS

T.C. OSTRANDER

(6-218, 227, 4.9e) STANFORD

Notes: Father, Clint, was a member of the


Stanford track and field team (1966-71). T.C.
also lettered in baseball as a prep. Redshirted in
2003. Started 1-of-6 games in 04 and completed 56-of-126 passes (44.4 percent) for 914
yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions.
Appeared in six games behind Buffalo Bills
2007 third-round pick Trent Edwards in 05,
tossing 39-67-529-1-1 (58.2). Started the final 5of-10 games in which he played in place of the
injured Edwards in 06 and threw for 72-158918-3-5 (45.6). Started 5-of-8 games in which
he played in 07, including the first four games
of the season before a seizure suffered the week
prior to the USC contest knocked him out of that
game. Backed up sophomore Tavita Pritchard
for the remainder of the season and finished with
130-229-1,422-7-3 (56.8).
Positives: Good size. Has a clean release. Is
tough and can take a hit. Solid leadership traits
and character. Very smart and has an understanding of the game. Played in a pro-style
offense.
Negatives: Durability is a big concern. Limited career experience. Tends to hold on to the ball
too long and does not see the field well. Is too
inconsistent with ball placement makes his
receivers adjust to the ball. Average accuracy.
Lacks great arm strength.
Summary: Has showed enough ability to warrant a chance but was never able to establish a
rhythm with a weak supporting cast. Seizure and
subsequent loss of his starting job could limit his
chances.

QB MATT

RYAN

(6-434, 228, 4.94) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 1-of4 games in 04, completing 35-of-71 passes
(49.3 percent) for 350 yards, two touchdowns
and three interceptions. Started 5-of-10 games in
05 as a quarterback and played in all 12 on special teams. Connected on 121-195-1,514-8-5
(62.1) and rushed 37 times for 94 yards (2.5yard average) and five touchdowns. Missed the
game vs. Buffalo after breaking a bone in his left
foot vs. Virginia Tech on Oct. 12, 2006, but started all 12 contests afterward, completing 263427-2,942-15-10 (61.6) and rushing 51-128-4
(2.5) and leading the conference in passing yards
(245.5 ypg). Had surgery immediately following
the season. Started all 14 games in 07, amassing
388-654-4,507-31-19 (59.3). Set school singleseason records and led the Atlantic Coast Conference in passing yards, completions and touchdowns, and set school career marks in completions and most 400-yard passing games. Earned

ACC Player of the Year honors, and won the


Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (nations
most outstanding senior quarterback) and the
Manning Award (best quarterback in the United
States). The two-time elected captain was 25-7
in his career as a starter.
Positives: Terrific intangibles. Has a passion
for the game and works very hard at his craft.
Excellent football intelligence. Very accountable
leader. Good decision-maker. Fiery on-field
competitor. Has prototype size. Good flexibility.
Very mentally and physically tough. Good foot
quickness. Shows the ability to buy time in the
pocket. Has good arm strength to make every
throw. Can throw with touch and velocity and
knows when to take pace off the ball. Shows the
ability to move outside the pocket and improvise
when protection breaks down. Can get rid of the
ball quickly when
called upon to do so.
Has proven he will
play
through
injuries. Can read
through progressions, look off
defensive backs and
find open receivers.
Makes throws to the
field with consistency and accuracy.
Plays with terrific
poise and handles
pressure very, very
well. Takes few
Matt Ryan l BOSTON COLLEGE unnecessary sacks.
Has an easygoing
presence and relates well to teammates. Has
stepped up in critical situations and made plays
when needed. Extremely competitive and motivated to achieve.
Negatives: Not a very elusive scrambler. Tries
to do too much and will take some high-risk
chances fitting the ball into tight coverage. Does
not have a cannon arm to throw off his back foot
and will hang some deep balls in the air. Too
often does not see the short-hole plugger.
Summary: Has all the attributes desired in a
franchise quarterback toughness, accuracy,
intangibles, intelligence and escapability. Has the
mental makeup to step into a starting lineup from
Day One. Decision-making and ability to handle
pressure crystallized as a senior and carried a
team with very little talent around him. Should
be able to do the same in a relatively short time
in the pros and develop into a Pro Bowl passer. Is
very worthy of the first overall pick.
BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

Shrine game to excite a coaching staff interested


in developing a passer. Could fit best in a West
Coast offense.

QB RICKY

SANTOS

(6-038, 209, 5.09) NEW HAMPSHIRE

Notes: Threw 77 TD passes in his career as a


four-year starter in high school. Also lettered in
basketball, baseball and track and field as a prep.
Redshirted in 2003. Started all 13 games in 04,
completing 272-of-425 passes (64.0 percent) for
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3,318 yards, 31 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and rushing 125 times for 283 yards (2.5yard average) and one touchdown. Beat Rutgers
in his first-ever game as a starter and threw five
touchdowns. Rewrote the UNH record books in
05, tossing 38-55-538-6-1 vs. Villanova and
301-429-3,797-39-9 (70.2) in 13 starts for the
season while carrying 119-505-8 (4.2). Completed 25-of-26 passes vs. Northeastern for an
NCAA record for completion percentage in a
game (96.2 percent). Started all 13 games in 06,
tossing 293-432-3,125-29-7 (67.8) and rushing
149-378-12 (2.5). Awarded the Walter Payton
Award, the Football Championship Series Heisman Trophy equivalent. Voted team co-captain
and started 11 games in 07, missing the Iona
contest with a right (throwing) shoulder injury
suffered the week prior vs. Delaware. Finished
with 256-350-2,972-24-7 (73.1) en route to
Football Championship Series All-America
(AP) and co-Colonial Athletic Association
Offensive Player of the Year honors, and a fifthplace finish in Walter Payton Award (best FCS
offensive player) voting. Led the conference in
passing efficiency (163.1) and total offense
(292.3) and finished third in FCS history in
career touchdown passes (123), passing yards
(13,212) and total offense (14,621).
Positives: Shows nice touch and anticipation.
Can get rid of the ball quickly and hasten his
delivery when needed. Very competitive on the
field and even-tempered off it. Vocal leader. Nice
intangibles.
Negatives: Does not look the part. Is short and
will struggle to find open throwing lanes in the
pros. Lacks arm strength. Lacks the foot quickness to move around in the pocket and will
struggle to see the field in the pros. Has worked
out of the shotgun and will need to adjust to taking snaps under center. Has small hands.
Summary: A very productive, four-year
starter who has shined vs. marginal competition,
Santos did little to distinguish himself at the
Hula Bowl and will always struggle to overcome
his size deficiencies.

QB PAUL

SMITH

(6-114, 208, 4.97) TULSA

Notes: Married. Coached by his father as a


prep, Paul set the Oklahoma state record with
9,574 career passing yards. Also lettered in baseball in high school. Played in eight games as a
true freshman in 2003, completing 21-of-34
passes (61.3 percent) for 297 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Redshirted in 04.
Started all 13 games in 05, tossing 227-3642,847-20-6 (62.4) and also rushed for six touchdowns. Started all 13 games in 06 and threw
233-350-2,727-15-9 (66.6) and rushed for eight
touchdowns. Started all 13 games in 07, totaling
327-544-5,065-47-19 (60.1) en route to Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year (coaches) honors. Finished second in the nation in total
offense (370.3), passing yards (5,065) and
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

touchdowns (47), and fourth in passing efficiency (159.8). Set school and conference singleseason records for passing yards, total offense,
and touchdown passes. Set school career records
for total offense, passing yards and touchdown
passes, and established the NCAA mark for
most consecutive 300-yard passing games (14).
Positives: Shows very good awareness in the
pocket. Can move around the pocket and shows
some ability to create plays. Solid character.
Strong work ethic. Very confident. Has a great
understanding of the game. Very determined.
Coachs son. Very smart. Reads the field and
knows where to go with the ball. Feels pressure
and can elude the rush. Good short-to-intermediate accuracy. Can throw with touch. Sneaky athletic. Can get rid of the ball quickly. Very
durable. Good football temperament.
Negatives: Very slight-framed with marginal
height and does not look the part. Lacks the arm
strength to fit the ball into tight windows.
Struggles the farther he has to throw. Has a
frame that is not built to withstand contact.
Summary: An undersized West Coast, rhythm
passer in the mold of Jeff Garcia, Smith could be
forced to take a long road to the NFL and spend
time in a developmental league before he is
given the chance he has shown he deserves. Has
few notable physical traits but is a good football
player who knows how to play the game and
makes the most of his opportunities.

QB-TE ADAM

TAFRALIS

(6-118, 221, 4.84) SAN JOSE STATE

Notes: Father, Gregg, was ranked among the


top 10 shot-putters in the world for seven years by
Track & Field News. Adam also lettered in basketball and track and field, placing in the top
three in the discus (182 feet, 1 inch) and shot put
(59 feet, 734 inches) at the California high school
championship as a senior. Did not attend school
in 2002, choosing to stay home to work. Signed
with San Jose State and redshirted in 03. Started
3-of-9 games in which he played in 04, completing 29-of-65 pass attempts (44.6 percent) for 432
yards, two touchdowns and one interception and
rushed for two touchdowns. Started 8-of-11
games in 05 and tossed 142-286-1,810-11-10
(49.7). Started all 13 games in 06, throwing 181276-2,284-21-7 (65.6), setting the school record
for completion percentage. Started all 12 games
in 07, passing 251-400-3,022-18-11 (62.8) and
setting the school single-season record for 300yard passing games (seven), and career marks for
completions (603), total offense (8,117) and passing yards (7,548). Also became the first quarterback in Spartans history to complete at least 60
percent of his passes in more than one season.
Positives: Shows some run strength and is
competitive. Stands in the pocket and will deliver. Excellent work habits. Has a passion for the
game. Good career production. Solid character.
Negatives: Too short. Marginal athlete and
decision-maker. Struggles to avoid the rush. Aver-

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age arm strength. Loses accuracy the farther he
has to throw and does not take a lot of downfield
shots. Has a long delivery. Holds on to the ball
too long and is not a confident decision-maker.
Summary: Has very marginal tools for the QB
position and worked out as a tight end at the
Combine. Passion and work habits could keep
him alive, but a lack of athleticism will limit his
chances.

QB ANDRE

WOODSON

vocal leader.
Summary: Will take time to absorb an offense
and need time to be groomed. Long delivery will
always allow defenders to prey on his passes.
Began to take strides when the offense was overly simplified, but lack of escapability and long
delivery will always handcuff an offense. Will
require significant patience and his long-term
success will hinge on his ability to absorb a playbook.

QB KYLE

Notes: Grew up in a military family and consequently lived in Germany and Hawaii. Also
lettered in basketball and track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 1-of-7 games in which
he played in 04, completing 54-of-88 passes
(61.4 percent) for 492 yards, two touchdowns
and one interception. Started all 11 games in
05, tossing 146-253-1,644-6-6 (57.7). Started
all 13 games in 06 and completed 264-4193,515-31-7 (63.0). Was voted Most Valuable
Player by his teammates. Started all 13 games in
07, amassing 327-518-3,709-40-11 (63.1) and
led the Southeastern Conference in completions,
yards and touchdowns. Set the school and conference single-season records for touchdown
passes. Set the
school career mark
for TD passes (79)
and the conference
career record for
interception ratio
(only two percent of
his pass attempts
were intercepted).
Also set the NCAA
record for consecutive
completions
without an interception (325).
Positives: Has terrific size. Can flick Andre Woodson l KENTUCKY
the ball downfield
easily. Has good arm strength with a fluid stroke
and delivery and spins a very tight spiral. Very
good touch. Can zip it long distances on a rope.
Improving decision-maker. Is very calm and collected and has shown the ability to keep his poise
under pressure and rally his team from big
deficits, as he showed he could do vs. Louisville
and LSU.
Negatives: Has a tendency to bird-dog his primary target and is late to locate open receivers.
Has a long, exaggerated release with a hitch at
the top, where he drops the ball down to throw.
Holds on to the ball too long and takes unneccesary sacks. Needs to do a better job securing the
ball. Will force the ball into coverage. Requires
space to throw and too often aims the ball. Average athletic ability and marginal foot quickness
to buy time with his feet. Looks to the sideline
for audibles and will take some time to grasp an
offense. Takes time to build a rhythm. Not a

(6-338, 218, 4.89) MIAMI (FLA.)

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

(6-4, 229, 4.88) KENTUCKY

WRIGHT

Notes: Earned Parade All-America, Gatorade


National High School Football Player of the
Year and USA Today All-America second-team
accolades as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Saw
limited action in 04, missing five games to a
sprained left ankle and also missing bowl practices after an allergic reaction to a bee sting.
Completed 5-of-9 passes (55.6 percent) for 30
yards. Started all 12 games in 05, tossing 180307-2,403 (58.6) with 18 touchdowns and 10
interceptions. Voted team captain and started the
first nine games of 06, throwing 152-2501,655-8-7 (60.8). Suffered a broken right thumb
against Virginia Tech and played out the game
before undergoing surgery and sitting out the
remainder of the season. Was wearing an elastic
band on his left knee in fall camp. Was very limited in practice and unseated as the starter by
Kirby Freeman. Started 9-of-10 games in which
he played in 07, serving as the backup in the
season opener vs. Marshall, and missing the
North Carolina State contest with a sprained left
ankle and sprained tendon behind his left knee
suffered vs. Florida State. Overtook Freeman by
the second quarter vs. Oklahoma and remained
the starter, but played the final three games of
the season with a boot on his injured left ankle.
Finished with 141-241-1,747-12-14 (58.5).
Positives: Is smart and can articulate the
game. Solid character. Looks the part physically
and will stand out in individual workouts against
air. Good arm strength. Can sling the rock effortlessly and make all the throws. Is agile enough to
move around the pocket.
Negatives: Lacks poise. Has struggled to handle live bullets and not been able to handle pressure. Has taken a beating behind an average
offensive line and has become gun-shy lets his
eyes drop instead of continuing to look downfield
when under duress. Struggles to make proper
adjustments and decision-making has been questionable. Forces the ball too much into coverage.
Summary: A naturally gifted talent who has
never been able to get comfortable in a program
where there has been a revolving door on the
coaching staff. Looked like he might blossom
early in his career and has the size, arm strength
and enough athleticism to continue developing.
Is sorely in need of coaching continuity and
could be re-trained out of many of his bad habits
with good coaching.
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KWR

RUNNING BACKS
PFWS TOP

10

RUNNING BACKS

1. JONATHAN STEWART
2. Darren McFadden
3. Rashard Mendenhall
4. Felix Jones
5. Ray Rice
6. Matt Fort
7. Tashard Choice
8. Jamaal Charles
9. Chris Johnson
10. Kevin Smith
RB LANCE

BALL

(5-9, 219, 4.6e) MARYLAND

Notes: Also lettered in baseball and track as a


prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in four
games at running back in 04, rushing four times
for one yard and was slowed by a knee injury.
Started 4-of-11 games in 05, carrying 189-9036 (4.8-yard average) and catching 18 passes for
153 yards (8.5). Started 11-of-13 games in 06
but split carries with Keon Lattimore and carried
174-815-8 (4.7) and caught 11-60-0 (5.5). Started the final 4-of-13 games in 07 after Lattimore
suffered a hamstring injury, and rushed 182-76812 (4.2) and caught 18-88-0 (4.9).
Positives: Shows some run strength and
vision. Reads blocks and can run through arm
tackles. Will dip his shoulder and keep his legs
churning. Very good weight-room strength.
Team player.
Negatives: Is short, tight in the hips and a bit
straight-linish. Not overly strong, fast or powerful and does not break a lot of tackles. Has average elusiveness. Lacks top-end acceleration to
hit the corner. Cradle-catcher. Limited in pass
protection. Has not played on special teams. Has
never been a full-time starter and did not seize
the job when he had opportunities. Not a grinder.
Summary: Patient, controlled, cut-back runw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ner with limited speed and burst, but he could


compete for a job in a zone-blocking scheme.

RB YVENSON

BERNARD

(5-838, 204, 4.87) OREGON STATE

Notes: First name is pronounced EVANson. Also lettered in baseball as a prep and was
selected as an outfielder by the Minnesota Twins
in the 33rd round of the 2003 MLB draft. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in 10-of-12 games in
04 and returned 13 punts for 79 yards (6.1-yard
average) and five kickoffs for 91 yards (18.2).
Started all 11 games in 05, rushing 299 times
for 1,321 yards (4.4) and 13 touchdowns and
catching 37 passes for 316 yards (8.5) and one
touchdown. Started 13-of-14 games in 06, missing the USC contest with a sprained right ankle
and carrying 296-1,307-12 (4.4) and receiving
43-276-1 (6.4). Started all 11 games in which he
played in 07, missing the USC contest with a
left shoulder injury and the Oregon contest after
injuring his right knee in the first half vs. Washington State the week prior and undergoing
arthroscopic surgery. Carried 275-1,214-13 (4.4)
and grabbed 36-179-1 (5.0) to finish second in
school history and sixth in Pac-10 history in
career rushing yards.
Positives: Nice run vision and instincts. Can
sidestep a few tacklers in the open field. Has big,

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reliable hands and catches the ball well. Good
career production. Willing blocker. Great character. Has a passion for the game. Twice elected
team captain.
Negatives: Not quick to the hole. Pitter-patters too much and does not have the speed to hit
holes when he sees them. Lacks the power to run
inside. Does not keep his shoulders squared and
too easily gets turned. Not nifty-footed and does
not string many moves together. Struggles to
create. Has very little return experience. Lacks
home-run speed. Terrible 40-time at Combine.
Summary: Tough, undersized, overachieving
runner who lacks the suddenness and creativity
desired in a little back and could struggle to stay
healthy in a land of giants. Has the mental makeup to compete on special teams.

RB CORY

BOYD

(6-012, 213, 4.56) SOUTH CAROLINA

Notes: Played in all 11 games as a true freshman in 2003 and earned teams Freshman of the
Year recognition after rushing 58 times for 232
yards (4.0-yard average) and three touchdowns
and catching 11 passes for 145 yards (13.2) and
one touchdown. Was barred from participating
in team activities in the summer of 04 because
of a lack of attendance at offseason workouts
and summer school. Returned to start 9-of-11
games in the fall, carrying 62-309-3 (5.0) and
receiving 35-347-1 (9.9) and returning one kick
for nine yards. Was suspended for the 05 season for a non-academic violation of athletic
department policy. Also was investigated that
September for possible involvement in the
slashing of tires on a vehicle. Allegedly verbally abused a pair of university students and
threatened to slash one of the students car tires
if a debt was not settled. According to police
reports, two hours after the verbal confrontation, the students tires were found slashed, but
no formal charges were ever brought forward.
Returned to start 7-of-12 games in which he
played in a rotation in 06, missing the Florida
Atlantic contest with an ankle injury. Rushed
164-823-8 (5.0), caught 35-406-2 (11.6) and
returned kicks 4-64 (16.0). Started all 12 games
in 07, carrying 180-903-9 (5.0) and receiving
36-405-1 (11.3).
Positives: Runs hard, gets through the hole
quickly and will drop his shoulder and run
through contact. Has a strong stiff-arm. Good
run balance. Churns his legs and tears through
arm tackles. Plays physical. Good run instincts,
vision and cut-back ability. Wants to carry the
ball in crunch time. Has solid hands to snatch the
ball. Physical blocker.
Negatives: Thin and tight in the lower body
and runs a bit tall. Lacks top-end speed and is
not overly elusive. Has repeatedly run into trouble off the field, and his character will always be
a question. Has never carried a full workload or
had more than 180 carries in a season. Does not
respond well to hard coaching. Could do a better

job of sustaining in pass protection.


Summary: Has overcome a lot of adversity in
his life and runs like he is taking his frustration
out on the opposition. Plays with a chip on his
shoulder and shows the run strength, instincts
and vision to develop into a solid complementary back. A one-cut slasher who would rather
run over than around defenders, Boyd could be
best in a zone scheme.

RB JAMAR

BRITTINGHAM

(6-012, 208, 4.69) BLOOMSBURG (PA.)

Notes: Rushed for 2,575 yards and 30 touchdowns as a high school senior en route to the
PIAA Pennsylvania Class 4A state title. Originally signed with Rutgers as a prep but instead
attended Kiski Prep School in Pennsylvania to
improve his SAT score before committing to
Bloomsburg. Appeared in all 10 games as a true
freshman in 2004, racking up 135 carries for 991
yards and 16 touchdowns (7.3-yard average), 11
receptions for 79 yards (7.2), 10 punt returns for
79 yards (7.9) and four kick returns for 149
yards (37.2). Starting all 12 games in 05, rushing 316-2,260-32 (7.2), catching 20-229 and two
touchdowns (11.4) and returning punts 4-74
(18.5). Ranked first in D-II in rushing yards per
game (188.3) and second in rushing TDs. In 06,
he was limited by a strained left knee and started 8-of-10 games played, carrying 213-1,003-12
(4.7) and receiving 12-250-0 (12.5). Battled
through injury as a junior and was not at full
health late in the year. Voted team captain by his
teammates and started all 10 games in 07, rushing 244-1,435-23 (5.9), highlighted by a careerhigh 257 rushing yards vs. Millersville, catching
8-84-0 (10.5) and returning punts 6-79-0 (13.2)
and kicks 12-255-0 (21.3). Earned Pennsylvania
State Athletic Conference Eastern Division
Player of the Year honors after leading the conference in rushing yards, touchdowns, points
and all-purpose yards and finished as the
schools all-time leader in rushing and scoring.
Positives: Nice run balance, strength and
power to push the pile. Can slam through the line
and plow in short-yardage situations. Outstanding worker. Competes hard. Raw pass protector.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Lacks foot speed and will struggle to reach the
corner in the pros. Runs too tall and it will leave
him open to punishment. Not elusive or creative
in the open field. Has been little-used as a
receiver or returner. Could be challenged by the
size of an NFL playbook.
Summary: Strong, downhill, inside runner
who will have to make it on special teams to
have a chance.

RB THOMAS

BROWN

(5-838, 204, 4.56) GEORGIA

Notes: Started 3-of-11 games at running back


as a true freshman in 2004, rushing 172 times for
875 yards (5.1-yard average) and eight touchdowns and catching 16 passes for 150 yards
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(9.4). Started 12 games in 05, missing Week
Three vs. Louisiana-Monroe with an injury, carrying 147-736-4 (5.0) and snagging 6-67 (11.2).
Also threw one pass for a score. Started the first
five games of the 06 season and played in two
more, gaining 62-256-1 (4.1) and grabbing 7-71
(10.1). Also returned 15 kicks for 379 yards
(24.3) and one TD on a long of 99 yards vs.
Tennessee. Tore the anterior cruciate ligament in
his right knee in the second half of the Vanderbilt game and missed the remainder of the season. Returned from the knee injury to start 7-of10 games in which he played in 07, missing
three midseason contests but still returning earlier than projected from a broken collarbone that
he might have played with vs. Tennessee.
Rushed 148-779-10 (5.3), caught 10-84-2 (8.4)
and returned kicks 15-333-0 (22.2).
Positives: Rocked up with muscle and very
strong pound-for-pound. Runs with good
strength, balance and toughness. Good run
instincts. Shows some shiftiness. Plays through
injury. Unselfish team player. Dependable
hands. Competitive blocker. Has kickoff return
experience.
Negatives: Lacks size and top-end burst. Is
tightly wound. Does not get great knee extension. Durability is an issue and could continue to
be an issue given his hard-charging running
style. Lacks breakaway speed as a returner.
Summary: Stood out at the East-West Shrine
game for his run strength and tenacity. Is not as
big or as fast as teams would like and could
struggle to stay healthy in a full-time role. However, he has shown he is tough enough to run
between the tackles and could be a solid backup.

RB ANDRE

CALLENDER

(5-1058, 193, 4.65e) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Also lettered in track (100-meter high


hurdles) as a prep. Played in 10 games as a redshirt freshman in 2004, starting one and rushing
138 times for a team-leading 637 yards (4.6-yard
average) and two touchdowns and catching 16
passes for 118 yards (7.4). Missed two games
with a groin injury. Played in all 12 games as
part of a RB rotation in 05, carrying 142-708-3
(5.0) and catching 22-141 (6.4). Returned two
kicks for 54 yards (27.0). Saw action in all 13
games in 06, rushing 146-633-3 (4.3) and snagging 24-238 (9.9) as a receiver. Also returned
two kickoffs for 50 yards (25.0). Started all 14
games in 07 and rushed 218-989-9 (4.5),
grabbed 76-720-4 (9.5) and returned kicks 6117-0 (19.5). Led the team in rushing and
receiving and set the schools single-season
record for receptions.
Positives: Shows some vision to pick and
slide. Sees the cut-back. Adjusts well to the ball.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Lacks bulk
and run strength. Takes time to accelerate and
shows no burst. Lacks power and is not a tacklebreaker. Shows little wiggle or quickness. Tends
to catch with his body. Marginal blocker
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

whiffs too much in pass protection. Marginal


weight-room strength. Needs to learn what it
means to work. Not tough.
Summary: Best trait is his ability to catch the
ball. Has some value as a pass catcher. Could
compete in a camp.

RB JEHUU

CAULCRICK

(6-0, 254, 4.71) MICHIGAN STATE

Notes: Born in Liberia and moved to New


York after his father, who was running for president, was assassinated. Set Western New York
prep career rushing yards record with 6,559
yards and also lettered in track and field, winning the Class C/D shot put title with a throw of
54-834. Redshirted in 2003 at linebacker. Moved
to the backfield and played in 11-of-12 games in
04, rushing 113 times for 619 yards and five
touchdowns (5.5-yard average) and catching two
passes for 27 yards (13.5). Started 1-of-11
games in 05 and carried 89-478-7 (5.4) and
caught 5-53-0 (10.6). In 06, started 6-of-11
games in which he played, replacing the injured
Javon Ringer over a four-game stretch, rushing
108-426-6 (3.9) and grabbing 15-123-1 (8.2).
Started 5-of-13 games in 07, rushing 222-87221 (3.9) and receiving 5-36-0 (7.2). Led the Big
Ten and set the schools single-season record for
rushing touchdowns.
Positives: Very big-boned and naturally thick.
Shows some natural athleticism. Is fairly light
on his feet for his size. Will drop his shoulder
and run through contact. Is a load to bring down
and can be effective moving the pile in shortyardage/goal-line situations.
Negatives: Too tight-hipped and slow to
change direction. Struggles to sink his hips
runs too tall. Average speed. Can be tracked
down too easily. Does not block with leverage or
power. Has had difficulty controlling his weight
and it will tend to fluctuate. Marginal weightroom strength.
Summary: Best chance will likely come as a
fullback, where he could add value as a shortyardage runner.

RB JAMAAL

CHARLES

(5-11, 200, 4.41) TEXAS

Notes: Brother, ShanDerrick, played football


at SMU (2000), and cousin Graylin Johnson
played for the Longhorns (1989-90). Jamaal also
lettered in track as a prep and won the Texas 5A
state championships as a senior in the 100-meter
hurdles (13.69) and 300m hurdles (36.03), both
tops in the nation. As a high school sophomore,
won the bronze medal in the 400m hurdles
(51.48) at the 03 World Youth Championships.
As a member of the university track and field
team, placed second in the 100m (10.32) at the
Big 12 Indoor Championships. On the gridiron,
started 3-of-13 games in which he played as a
true freshman in 05 in a rotation with Selvin
Young and Ramonce Taylor. Registered 119 carries for 878 yards (7.3-yard average) and 11

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touchdowns and caught 14 passes for 157 yards
(11.2) and two touchdowns, leading the team in
yards per carry and finishing second in rushing
yards behind Vince Young. Started 1-of-12
games in which he played in a rotation with
Selvin Young in 06, missing the Sam Houston
State contest with soreness. Totaled 156-831-7
(5.3) on the ground and 18-183-1 (10.2) through
the air, leading the team in rushing. Started all
13 games in 07, carrying 258-1,619-18 (6.3),
highlighted by 290 yards vs. Nebraska, 216
yards of which came in the fourth quarter. Also
racked up 125 yards and four touchdowns in the
fourth quarter vs. Oklahoma State. Caught 17199-0 (11.7) on the season. Led the Big 12 in
rushing and rushing touchdowns and finished
second among backs with at least 150 carries in
yards per carry.
Positives: Can flat-out fly and shows the ability to pull away once he hits the clear. Nice cutback ability. Good agility and footwork to weave
through traffic and slip defenders. Has big-play
ability and has shown he could take over games,
as he did vs. Nebraska and Oklahoma State in
the fourth quarter. Has top-end speed to contribute immediately as a kickoff returner.
Negatives: Has a tendency to flag the ball
instead of holding it high and tight and ball security is a major question fumbled 11 times as
a junior. Is narrow-framed and not built to take a
pounding. Lacks run strength between the tackles and likes to bounce outside too much. Not
strong or powerful and does not finish runs.
Inconsistent effort and awareness as a blocker.
Summary: Rare speed will attract early interest, but inability to secure the football and run
between the tackles could keep him from ever
being more than a complementary, change-ofpace back and kick returner. Would fit best
alongside a power back.

RB TASHARD

CHOICE

(5-1012, 215, 4.51) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Cousin of former Yellow Jackets RB


Joe Burns, who played for the Buffalo Bills
(2002-05) after going undrafted. Enrolled at
Oklahoma in 2003 and redshirted. In 04, tallied
22 carries for 100 yards (5.0-yard average) in a
reserve role, buried on the depth chart behind
Adrian Peterson. Missed three games with a left
hamstring injury. Transferred to Georgia Tech in
05, but he did not have to sit out the season due
to extenuating family circumstances deriving
from his mothers foot injury. Saw action in all
12 games, starting one, and racked up 117-5136 (4.4). In 06, he replaced Baltimore Ravens 06
fourth-round choice P.J. Daniels and started all
14 games, registering 297-1,534-12 (5.0) to lead
the Atlantic Coast Conference in rushing. Continued to play with a torn meniscus in his left
knee late in the year, had surgery following the
season and was limited in the spring. Started all
12 games in which he played in 07, missing the
Virginia Tech contest after undergoing right

knee surgery on Oct. 23 from an injury sustained


in the first quarter vs. Army. Carried 261-1,37910 (5.3), caught 14-107-0 (7.6) and led the
league in rushing and ranked second in yards per
carry. Became only the sixth player in ACC history to lead the conference in rushing in consecutive seasons and the first back in school history
to rush for at least 1,000 yards in consecutive
seasons. Graduated in December.
Positives: Fiery competitor. Plays bigger than
his size. Runs with a sense of urgency and determination and plays with a chip on his shoulder.
Good instincts and vision. Will initiate contact
and run out of arm tackles. Flashes a strong stiff
arm. Has continually risen to the occasion vs. better competition and responds to a challenge. Natural leader. Very tough and will play with pain.
Has a warriors mentality. Will command respect
from coaches and teammates and has a magnetic
personality to bring together a locker room.
Unselfish team player. Very willing blocker.
Negatives: Is undersized and has struggled to
stay healthy with his hard-charging running
style. Does not have great balance. Lacks topend speed and burst. Does not push the pile.
Does not make many tacklers miss. Has a tendency to catch with his body.
Summary: Has no special physical traits, but
his competitiveness, toughness, work ethic and
leadership ability are off the charts and will
make him a better pro than he grades out on
tape. Might not make an immediate impact, but
could be a solid backup, will his way into the
starting lineup and become a very good pro if he
can stay healthy.

FB MIKE

COX

(6-014, 259, 4.85e) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Also played linebacker as a prep. Saw


limited action in 2004 as a reserve, carrying four
times for 15 yards (3.8-yard average). Started
10-of-12 games in 05, missing two starts when
the Yellow Jackets employed three-receiver sets,
and finished with 13 receptions for 72 yards
(5.5). Started 9-of-13 games in 06, giving way
to three-WR and two-TE sets and catching 5-531 (10.6). Missed the Duke game with a concussion. Started 10-of-13 games in which he played
in 07, giving way to multiple-receiver sets, and
rushed 6-48-0 (8.0) and caught 12-92-0 (7.7).
Positives: Has good mass. Locates his target
and can initiate contact on the second level.
Catches the ball outside his frame and is reliable.
Very good work ethic.
Negatives: Has a bad body. Too heavy-legged.
Not fluid or agile. Tight-hipped and straight-linish. Does not run his feet on contact as a blocker or hit on the rise. Lacks pop and power.
Straight-ahead runner. Rigid route runner. Poor
career production. Durability is a concern has
had multiple shoulder injuries.
Summary: Is not flashy and does not look
pretty but usually gets the job done as a blocker and has good enough hands to warrant a
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chance. Could struggle to stay healthy.

RB CALVIN

DAWSON

RUNNING BACKS

RUNNING BACKS

(5-812, 199, 4.54) LOUISIANA-MONROE

Notes: Appeared in all 11 games as a true


freshman in 2004, rushing 35 times for 98 yards
(2.8-yard average) and catching one pass for 33
yards. Also returned two kickoffs for 43 yards
(21.5). Played in all 11 games in 05, splitting
time as the starter. Carried 134-656-7 (4.9),
caught 21-130 (6.2) and returned kicks 4-85-0
(21.3). Started 7-of-12 games in which he
played in 06, carrying 213-1,210-11 (5.7),
catching 21-155-0 (7.4) and returning kicks 12268-0 (22.3). Rushed 26-179-3 vs. Kentucky
and 19-128-0 vs. Arkansas. Started all 12 games
in 07, carrying 281-1,414-12 (5.0), grabbing
29-262-0 (9.0) and returning kicks 3-82-0 (27.3)
to lead the Sun Belt Conference in rushing yards
and touchdowns. Finished as the schools career
rushing yards and rushing touchdowns leader.
Positives: Shows the foot quickness and balance to make the first defender miss. Sets up his
moves and shows nice elusiveness and shortarea burst. Good vision. Can bob and weave
through traffic and runs hard for his size. Very
good strength pound-for-pound and will drop his
shoulder to fight for extra yardage (even if he
does not pick up much). Has stepped up vs. better competition. Has big mitts and catches the
ball well. Solid character. Is creative enough to
contribute as a kickoff returner. Vocal leader.
Negatives: Lacks size, run strength and power
to run inside. Not physical and seldom barrels
through any tackles. Does not have a top gear to
pull away in the clear.
Summary: Size limitations will keep him
from being more than a change-of-pace back,
but he has enough elusiveness and burst to contribute on third downs and could make a roster as
a kickoff returner.

RB ALLEN

ERVIN

(5-1034, 226, 4.6e) LAMBUTH

Notes: Played in six games as a true freshman


as a defensive back, collecting 10 tackles.
Moved to running back in 05 and played in two
games with eight carries for 12 yards (1.5-yard
averaged) before suffering a turf toe injury and
redshirting. Came back to play in eight games in
06, rushing 86-426 with three touchdowns,
catching 14 passes for 137 yards (9.8) and
adding 327 in return yards before tearing his
right rotator cuff in the next-to-last game. Played
in 11 games in 07, leading the NAIA in all-purpose yards per game (215.5). Rushed 220-1,29514 (5.9), caught 9-107-1 (11.9) and totaled 968
yards in returns.
Positives: Very well put together. Runs hard
and shows nice balance to keep his feet after
contact. Can break arm tackles and will fight for
extra yardage. Good production.
Negatives: Has faced low-level competition.
Not quick-footed or elusive and takes direct
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

hits. Lacks outside speed and a second gear.


Summary: Opened some eyes at the Texas vs.
the Nation all-star game and showed enough run
skills to warrant bringing to camp.

FB JEROME

FELTON

(5-1158, 241, 4.79) FURMAN

Notes: Took the ACT in seventh grade as part


of Duke Universitys talent search program and
scored well enough to qualify for college courses,
eventually amassing 19 college credits between
seventh and 11th grade. Started the final 7-of-13
games ahead of two seniors as a true freshman in
04 and finished with 66 carries for 300 yards and
10 touchdowns (4.5-yard average) and five receptions for 51 yards (10.2). Started all 14 games in
05, carrying 182-951-18 (5.2) and receiving 18144 and two TDs (8.0), and ranked second in the
Southern Conference in scoring with 124 points.
Played most of the season with a broken finger. In
06, started 11-of-12 games, missing the
Appalachian State contest with a right high ankle
sprain, rushing 162-711-23 (4.4), catching 13-85
(6.5) and establishing the school single-season
record for points (140). Had arthroscopic surgery
on his left knee after the season and was limited
in the spring. Recovered in time to start all 11
games in 07, carrying 165-705-12 (4.3) and
catching 11-59-1 (5.4). Finished as the schools
all-time leader in points (408) and rushing touchdowns (63) and ranks second in Southern Conference history in scoring.
Positives: Looks the part. Has good run skills,
vision and balance for as big as he is and will
deliver a blow. Shows strength between the tackles and can power his way through traffic.
Strong short-yardage runner. Is agile enough to
initiate contact on the second level and fit on
linebackers. Shows good awareness taking
blockers to the hole. Is smart and learns quickly.
Negatives: Not a punishing blocker and too
often looks disinterested in dirty work. Misses
blocking assignments. Not overly powerful.
Thinks he is better than he is and makes too
many excuses. Has faced marginal competition.
Puts the ball on the ground too much. Has not
played on any special teams and has a prima
donna attitude.
Summary: Showed improved effort as a
blocker at the East-West Shrine game and possesses the strength, agility and run skills to contribute with the ball in his hands but still must
prove he is more than a big fish in a small pond.
Could fit best as a one-back.

RB JUSTIN

FORSETT

(5-8, 194, 4.55e) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Father is a minister and coach. Justin


rushed for nearly 5,000 yards and 63 touchdowns
in his final two seasons in high school. Also lettered in basketball and track as a prep. Saw action
as a reserve running back and a gunner on the
punt team in 11 games as a true freshman, rushing seven times for 34 yards (4.9-yard average)

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and one touchdown. Recovered a blocked punt in
the endzone for a touchdown and had three tackles on special teams. Started 3-of-12 games in
05, carrying 132-999-6 (7.6), catching seven
passes for 68 yards (9.7) and also returning four
kicks for 70 yards (17.5). Rushed for 253 yards
vs. New Mexico State. Started 1-of-13 games in
06, compiling 119-626-4 (5.3) on the ground and
receiving 11-111 (10.1) and one touchdown.
Rushed for 115 yards in the fourth quarter vs.
Oregon after Marshawn Lynch left with an injury
and for 163 total yards in the game. Started all 13
games in 07, rushing 304-1,543-15 (5.1) and
receiving 22-202-0 (9.2), and led the Pacific-10
conference in rushing touchdowns.
Positives: Is instinctive and runs decisively.
Nice body control and balance. Can make some
quick lateral cuts and string a few moves together. Plays hard and will run out of some ankle
tackles. Has big hands. Good production. Takes
the game seriously. Strong character. Has contributed on special teams as a gunner and returner. Has been very durable. Smart. Studies the
game and works hard to improve.
Negatives: Is small and does not run strong or
play physical. Not overly elusive. Has build-up
speed and is not fast or explosive. Lacks homerun speed. Seldom used as a receiver. Looks
overwhelmed in pass protection. Has limited
return experience.
Summary: The type of back you want to root
for, Forsett has done everything he has been
asked and gets the most out of his ability. However, he does not have great traits for the pro
game. Could find a role on special teams and
third downs.

RB-FB MATT

FORT

(6-138, 217, 4.47) TULANE

Notes: Father, Gene, captained the Green


Wave in 1977. Brother, Bryan, plays football at
McNeese State. Matt also lettered in track as a
prep. Started 3-of-11 games as a true freshman in
2004, rushing 140 times for 624 yards (4.5-yard
average) and four touchdowns and catching 20
passes for 180 yards (9.0) and two touchdowns.
Started 6-of-11 games in 05 and carried 169655-4 (3.9) and grabbed 23-163-1 (7.1). Started
the first nine games in 06, rushing 163-859-8
(5.3) and snagging 28-360-2 (12.9), but missed
the final three contests with a torn left meniscus
and posterior cruciate ligament. Was limited during 07 spring practice, but recovered to start all
12 games in the fall, amassing 361-2,127-23 (5.9)
on the ground, 32-282-0 (8.8) as a receiver and
returned one kick for 11 yards. Recorded 300yard performances vs. Southeastern Louisiana (IAA) and SMU, and 200-yard efforts vs. Army,
UAB and Memphis. Finished second in the
nation in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns and
points scored, and ranks seventh in NCAA history for single-season rushing performances.
Positives: Solidly built. Runs hard between
the tackles and follows his blocks. Shows good

feet to sidestep the first defender and make a


tackler miss in the hole. Runs decisively and can
drop his pads and drive through arm tackles.
Always falls forward. Is surprisingly light on his
feet for his size. Good instincts and feel for the
game. Reliable hands. Willing blocker. Great
work ethic. Tough and competitive.
Negatives: Runs tall. Takes time to build speed
and can be slow to reach the perimeter. Not elusive and does not string many moves together.
Could do a better job of staying on his feet and
sustaining blocks in pass protection. Shows some
tightness in his hips and struggles to adjust to the
thrown ball. Lacks breakaway speed.
Summary: A big, strong, hard-charging,
upright, one-cut runner with the vision, instincts
and toughness to be effective running inside.
Has shown he could carry an offense and has the
ability to develop into a workhorse. Could
become a solid complementary power back for a
team with a more elusive scatback and would fit
best in a zone-blocking scheme. Solid Combine
showing will elevate draft stock.

RB BENJARVUS

GREEN-ELLIS

(5-1058, 219, 4.64) MISSISSIPPI

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep.


Enrolled at Indiana and started 3-of-12 games as
a true freshman in 2003, rushing 225 times for
938 yards (4.2-yard average) and seven touchdowns and catching 15 passes for 168 yards
(11.2) and one touchdown. Played in all 11
games in 04 and carried 231-794-5 (3.4) and
snagged 14-80-0 (5.7). Transferred to Ole Miss
in 05 to be closer to home and sat out because
of NCAA transfer rules. Started 11-of-12 games
in 06, rushing 234-1,000-7 (4.3) and catching 843-0 (5.4). Started all 12 games in 07 and carried 230-1,137-6 (4.9) and caught 2-25-0 (12.5).
Positives: Very good size. Runs hard with
good lean and usually falls forward. Can pick up
yardage in chunks. Keeps his shoulders squared
to the line, bounces off tacklers and will fight for
positive yardage. Has the strength to be effective
in pass protection and deliver a blow.
Negatives: Has a very tight lower body.
Makes some hasty reads, running into the backs
of blockers, and will miss some open holes. Not
a creative runner. Short-stepper. Does not generate a lot of power, run with great authority or
break a lot of tackles. Has two skillets for hands
and is seldom used in the passing game. Could
take some time to digest an NFL playbook.
Summary: Scouts say he bears some resemblance to Cowboys 2005 fourth-rounder Marion
Barber, but Green-Ellis is not quite as tough,
physical or instinctive. A strong, stretch-zone
runner who could fit most ideally in a system
like that of the Broncos or Packers.

RB MIKE

HART

(5-878, 206, 4.76) MICHIGAN

Notes: Holds national high school records for


career touchdowns (204), consecutive 100-yard
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rushing games (47), career 100-yard rushing
games (47) and career points (1,246). Rushed
935 times for 11,232 yards (12.0-yard average)
in his prep career. Also lettered in basketball and
made five steals per game. Started 8-of-12
games as a true freshman in 2004, carrying 282
times for 1,455 yards (5.2) and nine touchdowns
and catching 26 passes for 237 yards (9.1) and
one touchdown. Named Big Ten Freshman of
the Year after leading the conference in rushing.
Started all eight games in which he played in
05, missing four contests with minor hamstring
and ankle injuries, and rushed 150-662-4 (4.4)
and grabbed 16-154-1 (9.6). Started all 13
games in 06, rushing 318-1,562-14 (4.9) and
snagging 17-125-0 (7.4). Did not play in the
spring after having offseason shoulder surgery.
A team captain, he started all 10 games in which
he played in 07, missing three of the final six
contests of the season with a sprained right ankle
suffered in the first half vs. Purdue. Amassed
265-1,361-14 (5.1) on the ground and 8-50-0
(6.3) as a receiver, and led the Big Ten in rushing yards per game. Finished as the schools alltime leader in rushing yards (5,040), attempts
(1,015) and rushing yards per game (117.2).
Positives: Has a thick build and runs low to
the ground. Can pick and slide and runs very
decisively. Very tough and hard-nosed. Shows
very good lower-body strength for his size and
runs with balance. Good inside vision and quickness. Very determined and will fight for extra
yardage. Takes exceptional care of the football.
Good hands catches the ball well outside his
frame. Outstanding career production. Very solid
in pass protection. Sees the blitz and will step up
to take on defenders. Intensely competitive and
has a swagger.
Negatives: Lacks size, and his body began to
break down as a senior. Does not have the top
gear to pull away. Not elusive and does not make
a lot of tacklers miss. Can be tracked down easily from behind. Takes time to accelerate and get
outside. Has been dinged up and missed time
with injuries.
Summary: Size, toughness, run strength and
instincts are reminiscent of an incredibly poor
mans Emmitt Smith, although not nearly as laterally quick or elusive. Has taken an inordinate
amount of carries already for an undersized back
and durability could become more of an issue. If
Hart can withstand a pounding, however, he is
reliable enough in all phases of the game to earn
a starting job.

FB-RB JACOB

HESTER

(5-1058, 226, 4.62) LSU

Notes: Married. Distant cousin of Pittsburgh


Steelers Hall of Fame QB Terry Bradshaw. Was
named Louisiana Class 5A Offensive MVP as a
high school junior. Started 1-of-12 games as a
true freshman in 2004, rushing 20 times for 123
yards (6.2-yard average) and catching two passes for 21 yards (10.5) and one touchdown. Startw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ed 1-of-13 games in 04 and carried 25-114-2


(4.6) and caught 11-63-2 (5.7). Started 11-of-13
games at fullback (seven) and running back
(four) in 06, giving way to three-WR and twoTE sets on multiple occasions, running 94-4406 (4.7) and grabbing 35-269-3 (7.7). Started all
14 games in 07 at running back, and carried
225-1,103-12 (4.9) and caught 14-106-1 (7.6).
Positives: Can dip his pads and crease tacklers.
Nice run strength. Tough and physical and runs
with a bulldozer mentality. Runs hard after the
catch and gets upfield fast. Very determined.
Takes good care of the ball. Has been very durable
and has played on every special-teams unit. Very
solid character. Outstanding work ethic.
Negatives: Only knows one speed and lacks
a top gear. Average lateral quickness. Not a
quick-cutter. Does not generate a lot of power
through his hips and struggles to sink and
change direction. Does not throw his body
around as a blocker.
Summary: Jack-of-all-trades, master of none.
Gets what is blocked for him but lacks power
inside and burst and acceleration to the perimeter.
Has lined up at fullback and in some one-back
sets and could bring value as a utility back and for
a long time on special teams. Could be a luxury
pick similar to Rams 2007 second-rounder Brian
Leonard for a team with a plan to use him.

RB TIM

HIGHTOWER

(6-018, 226, 4.62) RICHMOND

Notes: Also earned varsity letters in basketball and track as a prep. Played in all 11 games
as a true freshman in 2004, carrying the ball 58
times for 161 yards. Also caught 19 passes for
158 yards and returned two kickoffs, one for 30
yards vs. William & Mary. Started 9-of-13
games in 05, rushing 142-777-9 and catching
21-163-0. Had three 100-plus-yard rushing
games. Started all 11 games in 06, carrying
177-850-7 and catching 34-269-2. Exploded as a
senior in 07, starting all 14 games and setting
school records with 337-1,991-20 rushing.
Added 32-228-3 receiving.
Positives: Has good size and strength, runs
hard downhill and can power through tacklers.
Attacks the line of scrimmage and fights for
extra yardage. Shows nice run vision to pick and
slide and is instinctive finding holes. Drives his
legs and is strong between the tackles. Has a feel
for the game. Good competitor. Very solid character. Elected team captain. Solid production.
Has been durable.
Negatives: Production is inflated from facing
marginal competition at Football Championship
Series level. Lacks burst to the perimeter and is
not a great athlete. Not elusive in the open field
and does not have finishing speed. Inconsistent
catcher. Put the ball on the ground too much earlier in his career.
Summary: Ran hard in the Texas vs. the
Nation all-star game and has the strength,
instincts and inside running ability to compete

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for a job, but a lack of foot speed could always
be a limiting factor.

RB-FB LEX

HILLIARD

(5-1118, 231, 4.69) MONTANA

Notes: Also lettered in track and wrestling as


a prep. Was supposed to redshirt the 2003 season
but was activated and started 1-of-12 games he
played. Rushed 125 times for 590 yards (4.7yard average) and five touchdowns and caught
nine passes for 117 yards (13.0). Started 4-of-14
games in 04, carrying 190-972-17 (5.1) and
receiving 22-211 (9.6). Started all 12 games in
05, carrying 249-1,322-12 (5.3) and catching
11-144 (13.1) and two touchdowns en route to
Walter Payton Award (I-AA Offensive Player of
the Year) finalist consideration. Redshirted in
06 due to a torn left Achilles tendon. Returned
to start all 11 games in which he played in 07,
missing the Idaho State contest after undergoing
surgery for an injured thumb. Rushed 2411,134-16 (4.7) and grabbed 15-119-0 (7.9) and
finished second in school history in rushing
yards.
Positives: Has good musculature and mass
and is athletic for his size. Runs hard inside,
presses the line and shows nice patience letting
blocks develop. Has good strength, runs with
good body lean and usually falls forward. Natural catcher. Very willing blocker squares up in
pass protection and attacks defenders on the second level. Has long arms to reach and extend.
Good career production.
Negatives: Lacks speed for the tailback position and does not elude defenders. Has faced
marginal competition. Has not been much of a
factor in the receiving game. Durability is a concern following his Achilles injury as a junior.
Summary: Responded from a career-threatening injury and returned to form as a senior,
showing the run skills, toughness and versatility
to contribute as a one-back or athletic fullback.
Has shown promise as a blocker and has the
physical tools to improve.

FB PEYTON

HILLIS

(6-034, 240, 4.66) ARKANSAS

Notes: Parade All-American who rushed for


2,631 yards and 29 touchdowns as a high school
senior. Lined up at both tailback and fullback as a
true freshman in 2004, playing in 10 games and
rushing 63 times for 240 yards (3.8-yard average)
and six touchdowns and catching 12 balls for 97
yards (8.1) and two touchdowns. Also returned
seven kicks for 128 yards (18.3). He was thought
to be out for at least 6-8 weeks after suffering a
fracture of the transverse processes of the L1, L2
and L3 vertebrates against Florida (Week Five),
but he returned to play against Georgia only three
weeks after the injury. Started 9-of-11 games at
fullback/H-back in 05, carrying 65-315-3 (4.8)
and catching 38-402-4 (10.6) to lead the team in
receptions. Also handled punt-return and coverage duties, making five tackles and returning 16

punts for 165 yards (10.3). Started 9-of-10 games


in 06, missing four games early in the season due
to a deep thigh bruise that prevented him from
walking for several days. Gained 13-57-1 (4.4) on
the ground, caught 19-159-0 (8.4) and fielded
eight punts for 92 yards (11.5). Started 9-of-13
games in which he played in 07, giving way to
multiple-receiver sets, and rushed 62-347-2 (5.6)
and grabbed 49-537-5 (11.0). Led the team in
receiving and receiving touchdowns and set the
school single-season record for receptions by a
running back.
Positives: Catches the ball naturally, can
adjust to the ball well and is very efficient as a
receiver out of the backfield. Lines up in the slot
and is a solid route runner. Good concentration.
Turns upfield quickly after the catch. Flashes
strength as a blocker.
Negatives: Lacks confidence. Average career
production. Lacks power. Not elusive to make
defenders miss and has been average as a returner. Durability is a question has missed some
time with injuries.
Summary: Looked aggressive blocking at the
Senior Bowl but never showed a lot of pop and
power as a blocker in four years in college and
consistently played too soft. His hands are clearly his best traits.

ATH-RB-WR-KR

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CHRIS JOHNSON

(5-11, 197, 4.29) EAST CAROLINA

Notes: Timed at 10.38 seconds in the 100


meters as a prep track athlete. Signed with East
Carolina as a wide receiver. Started 7-of-11
games at running back as a true freshman in
2004, rushing 134 times for a team-leading 561
yards (4.2-yard average) and five touchdowns,
and catching 32 passes for 236 yards (7.4) and
two touchdowns. Also returned 37 kickoffs for
765 yards (20.7). Started all 11 games in 05,
carrying 176-684-6 (3.9) and receiving 35-356-2
(10.2) and returning 21-459 (21.9) on kickoffs.
Fumbled only once in his first two years. Sat out
spring of 06 while rehabbing from offseason
neck surgery. Started 5-of-12 games in 06, gaining 78-314-4 (4.0) on the ground while snagging
21-176-0 (8.4) through the air and returning 21482 (23.0) and one touchdown on kick returns.
Did not play vs. Virginia after suffering a turf toe
injury vs. West Virginia. Started all 13 games in
07, rushing 236-1,423-17 (6.0), grabbing 37528-6 (14.3) and returning kicks 36-1,009-1
(28.0). Led the nation in all-purpose yards, highlighted by five 200-plus-yard games, including a
pair of 408-yard games vs. Memphis (301 rushing, 12 receiving, 95 return) and Boise State
(223 rushing, 32 receiving, 153 return), respectively. Set the all-time NCAA bowl record for
all-purpose yards with the 408-yard effort vs.
Boise State in the Hawaii Bowl. Set seven
school single-season records including rushing
touchdowns, points scored (144) and all-purpose
yards (2,960) and eight career records, including
receptions by a running back (125), touchdowns
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(44) and all-purpose yards (6,993).
Positives: Has rare speed and can pull away
from the pack when he finds a crease. Runs hard.
Shows game-breaking speed as a kickoff returner. Outstanding overall production. Can adjust
well to the thrown ball and catches cleanly away
from his body. Has lined up in the slot and has
the vertical speed to create separation. Has bigplay capability.
Negatives: Durability always will be an issue
given his running style. Runs too tall and stiffhipped and struggles to sink his hips and generate any power. Dips his head on contact and is
not a physical runner. Average running strength.
Has very, very small hands. Marginal blocker.
Production was inflated from having faced Conference USA competition. Has not returned
punts. Could take time to digest a playbook.
Summary: Is not built to withstand contact
between the tackles and is at his best when he is
in space. Could bring instant returns in the kickoff-return game and contribute in the receiving
game. Toughness, intelligence and upright running style always will be limiting factors that
keep him from reaching his potential. Those
who get caught up in his speed and do not have
a definitive plan for how to use him could be
burned. A fast, zone runner in a similar mold to
Falcons RB Jerious Norwood, Johnson never
will be an every-down back and is at his best
when he is in space.

RB FELIX

JONES (Junior)

RUNNING BACKS

(5-1018, 207, 4.51) ARKANSAS

Notes: Suffered a broken ankle as a high


school junior but recovered to compile 2,282
rushing yards and 48 touchdowns as a senior.
Started 2-of-11 games in which he played as a
true freshman in 2005, carrying 99 times for 626
yards (6.3-yard average) and three touchdowns,
grabbing eight passes for 100 yards (12.5) and
returning 17 kicks for 543 yards (31.9) and one
touchdown. Tied with teammate Darren McFadden for tops in the Southeastern Conference in
yards per carry and ranked second in the country
in yards per return. Started 6-of-14 games in
which he played in 06 at flanker (four) and running back (two). Rushed 154-1,168-6 (7.6),
caught 15-107-3 (7.1) and returned kicks 23-5541 (24.1). Led the nation (amongst backs with at
least 100 carries) in yards per carry, and ranked
second in the SEC in rushing. Started 3-of-13
games in which he played in 07 at flanker. Carried 133-1,162-11 (8.7), caught 16-176-0 (11.0)
and returned kicks 22-652-2 (29.6). Led the
nation in yards per carry (amongst backs with at
least 100 carries) and ranked fourth in kick-return
average. Also became the schools all-time leader
in kickoff-return yardage (1,749) and tied former
Tennessee WR Willie Gault for the conference
record for kick-return touchdowns (four).
Positives: Very natural athlete. Runs decisively and has excellent feet. Shows the run
instincts, vision and balance to string moves
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

together. Is not easy to hit squarely. Has a knack


for finding creases. Shows top burst and acceleration. Is patient finding lanes in the kickoffreturn game and accelerates in a blink when he
sees daylight. Exceptional lateral quickness.
Very competitive.
Negatives: Thinly built and not built to withstand heavy contact or carry the workload. Durability could be a concern. Averaged only 10.2
carries and is not a bellcow. Lacks the strength to
consistently run between the tackles. Needs to
improve as a blocker. Was not featured in the
passing game and did not return punts.
Summary: A dynamic space player with quickcutting ability and elusiveness to contribute
immediately in a complementary role. Did not
play in an offense that features backs in the passing game but has caught the ball well when he
had opportunities and shows terrific instincts and
traffic burst as a kickoff returner. Could make an
immediate impact in the pros and be a gamebreaking complement to a power back.

RB RODNEY

KINLAW

(5-918, 197, 4.5e) PENN STATE

Notes: Nephew of Courtney Brown. Was a


finalist for South Carolinas Mr. Football award
as a high school senior. Suffered a torn anterior
cruciate ligament in his right knee during a midSeptember practice his freshman year in 2003.
Had surgery on the knee and was granted a medical redshirt. Played in all 11 games in 2004, carrying 23 times for 93 yards. Led the Lions with
10 kickoff returns for 198 yards. Played in seven
games in 05, including each of the last five.
Rushed 16-34-2 and caught one pass for three
yards. Also had 8-237 (29.6-yard average) on
kickoff returns. Played in all 13 games in 06 as
the top reserve behind Philadelphia Eagles thirdrounder Tony Hunt. Had 39-199-0 rushing, 1-50 receiving and 9-174-0 (19.3) returning kicks.
Graduated in May 2007 with a degree in labor
and industrial relations. Is working on a second
degree, in sociology. Started 9-of-13 games in
07, rushing 243-1,362-10, catching 21-128-0
and returning one kick for 18 yards. Left the
Alamo Bowl with a rib injury but did return.
Positives: Runs hard downhill and attacks the
line of scrimmage. Good feet and agility to
quickly plant and redirect. Can jump out of cuts
and shows the ability to make the first defender
miss. Surprisingly strong for his size. Shows
good vision and is instinctive finding creases.
Good play speed. Tough and will play through
injury. Reliable catcher. Has kickoff-return
experience. Competitiveness shows up on tape.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Lacks bulk
strength and is not built to withstand heavy contact. Durability could be a consideration. Not
powerful. Does not string moves together. Needs
to take better care of the ball. Still raw in pass
protection and as a route runner. Lacks homerun speed.
Summary: Emerged as the starter as a senior

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after Austin Scott was suspended and made the
most of his opportunities. Showed improvement
late in the season and finished the year strong. A
one-cut slasher who could be a solid role player
and provide depth on an NFL roster.

RB KEON

LATTIMORE

(5-1058, 228, 4.55e) MARYLAND

Notes: Half-brother is Baltimore Ravens LB


Ray Lewis. Also lettered in basketball and track
in high school. Attended Hargrave Military
Academy (Va.) in 2003 and rushed for 425 yards
and four touchdowns. Transferred to Maryland
in 04 and missed the first four contests with a
dislocated right shoulder. Returned to play in
five games, rushing seven times for 15 yards
(2.1-yard average). Started 2-of-8 games he
played in 05 but missed three contests to have
surgery on the same right shoulder. Carried 58181-3 (3.1) and caught four balls for five yards
(1.2). Missed 06 spring practice to rehab the
right shoulder and also lowered his playing
weight by 20 pounds. Started 2-of-13 games in
06, splitting carries with Lance Ball, and rushed
160-743-3 (4.6) and grabbed 20-210 (10.5).
Started the first 9-of-12 games in which he
played in 07, missing the Boston College contest with a hamstring injury and splitting time
thereafter with Ball. Finished with 213-805-13
(3.8) rushing and 21-95-0 (4.5) receiving.
Positives: Excellent size. Natural athlete. Can
make one cut and go. Emotional leader. Very
good worker. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Does not play to his size and is not
a physical runner. Lacks speed to the perimeter.
Shows little creativity or elusiveness and only
gets what is blocked for him. Takes too much
time to get downhill. Has small hands, tends to
catch with his body and is not creative after the
catch. Average blocker. Has been slowed by
injuries. Marginal production.
Summary: Has enough size, athleticism and
run skills to contend for a No. 3 job, but his limited foot speed, toughness and vision will always
be restricting.

RB MATT

LAWRENCE

(6-038, 210, 4.52) MASSACHUSETTS

Notes: Also an all-state triple-jumper and


state champion basketball player as a prep in
Connecticut. Attended University of Connecticut his first two years. As a true freshman in
2003, played in six games with two starts and
carried 45 times for 150 yards and one touchdown and caught four passes for 14 yards.
Played in 10 games in 04, starting the first two.
Ended up with 28-117-2 rushing, 5-61-1 receiving and returned 12 kickoffs 186 yards (15.5
avg.). Transferred to UMass and made debut
with Minutemen on Sept. 1, 2005. Injured knee
on first carry of nine yards and did not play the
rest of the season as a medical redshirt. Played in
13 games in 06, starting seven at fullback as
lead blocker for All-American Steve Baylark.

Had 34-174-2 rushing, 14-109-0 receiving and


5-146-0 (29.2) returning kicks. Started all 13
games at tailback in 07, rushing 318-1,585-16,
receiving 17-69-0 and returning one kickoff for
30 yards. Gained 100 yards or more in 10-of-13
games in 07.
Positives: Shows some run instincts and
vision and runs decisively. Good cut-back ability. Nice balance. Can make sharp cuts and get up
the field. Natural catcher. Shows the agility to fit
on linebackers at the second level. Good work
ethic. Plays smart and understands the game.
Shows some wiggle to get through traffic and fit
through small spaces. A willing, agile blocker.
Negatives: Has faced average competition.
Too wiry and thin-framed for the fullback position. Lacks great speed and can be tracked down
from behind. Not a powerful tackle-breaker.
Summary: Not big or tough enough to line up
at fullback, where he lined up as a junior, but
shows the cut-back ability to warrant consideration in a zone scheme.

RB-KR RAFAEL

LITTLE

(5-834, 194, 4.5e) KENTUCKY

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Tore the meniscus in his right knee as a high
school senior and underwent surgery in August
of 2004. Recovered in time to start the final 3-of9 games in which he played as a true freshman,
carrying 53 times for 265 yards (5.0-yard average) and one touchdown and catching 12 passes
for 136 yards (11.3) and one touchdown. Also
returned three kicks for 13 yards (4.3) and six
punts for 55 yards (9.2). Started all 11 games in
05, rushing 197-1,045-9 (5.3), catching 46-4490 (9.8) and returning kicks 3-133-1 (44.3) and
punts 21-355 (16.9), highlighted by 372 all-purpose yards against Vanderbilt. Sustained a dislocated right wrist during 06 spring practice and
then tore the meniscus in his left knee in the
summer, undergoing surgery for both injuries.
Recovered to start 7-of-9 games in which he
played in 06, but missed four midseason contests after aggravating the left meniscus. On the
season, carried 140-673-3 (5.0), snagged 31392-2 (12.6) and returned kicks 1-23 and punts
14-317 (22.6) and underwent a second surgery
on the knee during the offseason. Started all 10
games in which he played in 07, missing three
midseason contests with a deep thigh bruise that
restricted movement in his knee and the second
half vs. Vanderbilt with a back injury. Also suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament in his
left knee during the Senior Bowl. Rushed 1901,013-3 (5.3), grabbed 42-347-1 (8.3), and
returned punts 19-127-0 (6.7). Ranks sixth in
Southeastern Conference history in all-purpose
yards (5,343) and became the first player in
school history and fourth in conference history
with at least 2,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards
receiving.
Positives: Good athlete with the foot quickness, agility and short-area burst to elude
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defenders. Natural receiver. Shows nice vision
and instincts as a returner. Very good career production.
Negatives: Lack of size and durability issues
are concerns. Has struggled to stay healthy. Not
a worker. Shows too much wasted movement
and pitter-patters in the hole. Does not run with
any power. Marginal run strength to run inside.
Likes to bounce everything outside.
Summary: Has a chance to stick as a thirddown, change-of-pace back and punt returner
but is not overly sudden or elusive for a little
back and has not been able to stay healthy
throughout his career.

FB ROLLY

LUMBALA

(6-034, 253, 4.78) IDAHO

Notes: Native of Canada. Started 2-of-12


games in 2004 as a true freshman, rushing 141
times for 614 yards and six touchdowns (4.4yard average) and recording six receptions for
40 yards (6.7). In 05, started 6-of-12 games,
carrying 128-472-1 (3.7) and catching 22-217-2
(9.9) as part of a four-back contingent. Played all
12 games as a reserve in 06 and rushed 21-95-2
(4.5). Started 2-of-12 games in which he played
in 07 at tight end, carrying 1-2-0 and grabbing
8-67-0 (8.4).
Positives: Good size. Versatile and has lined
up wherever he has been needed. Unselfish team
player. Solid character. Great work ethic. Selfmade. Gives good effort. Willing blocker.
Negatives: Average athlete. Limited run skills,
vision, instincts and burst. Raw route runner.
Summary: Nondescript role player who could
add a body in camp for his blocking ability.
Likely will draw most interest from the CFL.

RB-FB KREGG

LUMPKIN

(5-1112, 226, 4.72) GEORGIA

Notes: Parade All-American. Also lettered in


track as a prep. Missed the first two games of the
2003 season with a hamstring injury but went on
to play in the last 12 games as a true freshman
and started in the Capital One Bowl vs. Purdue.
Rushed 112 times for 523 yards (4.7-yard average) and six touchdowns and caught 14 balls for
93 yards (6.6) and one touchdown. Suffered a
torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee on
the first day of preseason practices and redshirted during the 04 season. Returned to play in all
13 games in 05, gaining 66-335-3 (5.1) and
catching 5-12-0 (2.4). Started 9-of-13 games
after Thomas Brown was injured in 06, carrying
162-798-6 (4.9) and snagging 17-116-1 (6.8).
Appeared in six games in 07, missing two
early-season contests after breaking his right
thumb in the season opener vs. Oklahoma State
and undergoing surgery, and missed the final
four regular-season games with a torn lateral
meniscus and a sprained posterior lateral complex suffered vs. Vanderbilt that also required
surgery. Finished with 12-44-0 (3.7) on the
ground and 2-13-0 (6.5) as a receiver.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Positives: Very good size. Looks the part and


is very well built. Can pick and slide and shows
nice vision to see the cut-back lanes and find
creases inside. Runs hard downhill and can drive
the pile. Has good hands. Gives effort as a blocker and shows the toughness to take on defensive
linemen. Plays smart. Solid character.
Negatives: Only shows one gear. Lacks speed
to the perimeter and the quickness to shake
defenders. Not overly powerful. Marginal production.
Summary: Got lost in a very talented backfield but has the size, run strength and inside
running ability to warrant a chance. Does everything well enough to be tried at fullback in a
West Coast offense, where he could bring added
value as a pass catcher and short-yardage runner.

FB-RB BRANDON

McANDERSON

(5-1014, 234, 4.6e) KANSAS

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 11
games in 04, carrying three times for four yards
(1.3-yard average) and one touchdown. Started
2-of-12 games in a rotation in 05 and carried
22-102-1 (4.6) and caught three passes for 40
yards (13.3), earning Most Improved Offensive
Player recognition. In 06, started 1-of-12 games
and rushed 31-122-5 (3.9) and grabbed 6-70-0
(11.7). Also returned four kicks for 80 yards
(20.0). Earned the teams top special-teams
player award. Started 11-of-13 games in which
he played in 07, rushing 190-1,125-16 (5.9) and
receiving 21-213-0 (10.1), ranking second in the
Big 12 in rushing touchdowns and third in rushing yards.
Positives: Has sheer mass. Shows some vision
and run instincts. Surprisingly light on his feet
for as big as he is. Has stood out in coverage on
special teams.
Negatives: Has a bad body. Marginal functional speed. Lacks power and tackle-breaking
ability for as big as he is. Not strong or explosive. Does not block with authority or throw his
body around like a fullback needs to be able to
do. Not physical.
Summary: Big, soft-bodied, plodding single
back with enough run instincts and mass to get
the job done in a zone scheme at the college
level. Will have to make it on special teams in the
pros, learn what it means to work in the weight
room and transition to fullback to earn a job.

RB DARREN

McFADDEN (Junior)

(6-114, 211, 4.36) ARKANSAS

Notes: Parade All-American as a prep. The


Associated Press Freshman of the Year, honorable mention All-American and first-team AllSoutheastern Conference as a true freshman in
2005. Started 9-of-11 games. Broke the
Arkansas freshman rushing record after carrying
176 times for 1,113 yards (6.3-yard average) and
11 touchdowns and catching 14 passes for 52
yards (3.7). Also returned 12 kicks for 348 yards

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SPORTPICS

(29.0) with a long of 81. Best game came against


Georgia, when he ran 31-190-2 (6.1) against one
of the nations top run defenses at the time. Only
one of two freshmen to surpass 1,000 yards in a
season in the SEC, with the other being Herschel
Walker. Started 13-of-14 games in 06, rushing
284-1,714-14 (5.8) and catching 11-149 (13.5)
and one touchdown. Also completed 7-of-9
passes for 69 yards, three touchdowns and one
interception in Arkansas Wildcat formation.
Returned kickoffs 10-262 (26.2) and one touchdown with a long of 92 yards. Missed the season
opener after having surgery on a dislocated big
left toe suffered in August when McFadden was
involved in a fight outside a Little Rock club.
McFadden confronted men trying to steal either
his or a relatives car. Became the first sophomore to receive the Doak Walker Award and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting to Troy
Smith of Ohio State. Earned first-team (AP) AllAmerica honors. Broke the Arkansas record for
most rushing yards in a season, surpassing
Madre Hill. Started all 13 games in 07 at running back (12) and flanker (1). Rushed 3251,830-16 (5.6), tying an SEC single-game record
with 325 rushing yards vs. South Carolina,
grabbed 21-164-1 (7.8), returned kicks 16-316-0
(19.8) and threw 6-11-123-4-0. Set the school
single-season rushing record and the conference
single-season mark for all-purpose yards
(2,433). Finished as the schools all-time leader

Darren McFadden

l ARKANSAS

in rushing and all-purpose yards and ranks second in SEC history in career rushing yards
(4,590) behind only Herschel Walker. Earned
All-America (AP) first-team honors, placed second in Heisman Trophy voting for a second consecutive season, and won the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, as well as the Doak Walker Award (nations top running back) for a second consecutive season. Was handcuffed but
released without charges on Jan. 10, 2008 for an
altercation at a Little Rock piano bar. According
to a police report, he was handcuffed because
he was agitated and was provoking aggressive
behavior inciting the incident, but was released
by police once he calmed down. This was the
second altercation in which McFadden has been
involved in the past year and a half. Was also
investigated in late 2007 for the illegal possession of a vehicle, a violation of NCAA rules, but
eventually was cleared of all wrongdoing. Has
fumbled 23 times the past three years, more than
any other runner in the country.
Positives: Has big-play capability and is a
threat to score every time he finds a crease. Has
a strong upper body and powerful stiff-arm and
will deliver a blow. Shows the explosion and
acceleration to take the corner and outrun a
defense. Can stick his foot in the ground and
accelerate with the type of speed you can feel as
he goes by. Can run inside or outside and wear
down defenses. Will dip his shoulder and drive
through contact. Catches the ball well and is
accurate throwing halfback-option passes (seven
career TD tosses). Good versatility. Solid football character has an aura on the field, a passion for the game and does everything he is
asked. Has shown he can take over games see
second half vs. Alabama.
Negatives: Needs to take better care of the
football. Is top-heavy. Runs upright with a thin
lower body and some tightness in his hips. Does
not sink his hips easily to change direction and
goes down too easily with arm tackles. Was frequently used out of a spread shotgun formation
where he took direct snaps from the quarterback
and did not run downhill the way he will be
asked to do in many pro-style offenses. Was little used as a receiver. Will miss some holes and
does not have great vision. Did not leave it all on
the field as a junior and seemed to be protecting
himself. Almost always carries the ball in his left
hand. Personal character is a very, very pressing
concern will never be able to escape distractions off the field.
Summary: A boom-or-bust prospect with elite
physical talent and high-risk (personal) character. Any team who considers drafting him early
better make sure it has done its due diligence.
Off-field distractions and hangers-on could keep
him from ever realizing his immense potential.
Fumbling problems are a major concern that are
characteristic of his lack of discipline off the
field and could keep him from staying on it.
Appears destined to break a teams heart and
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could ultimately cost a decision-maker his job if
too much is invested in him.

RB KALVIN

McRAE

RUNNING BACKS

Notes: Also lettered in wrestling and track as


a prep. Started 8-of-11 games as a true freshman
in 2004, giving way to three-receiver sets and
racking up 142 carries for 559 yards and four
touchdowns (3.9-yard average) and 13 receptions for 172 yards and two touchdowns (13.2).
In 05, started all 11 games and rushed 2091,153-7 (5.5) and caught 13-97-0 (7.5), highlighted by 200-yard rushing outputs against Kent
State, Ball State and Buffalo. Started all 14
games in 06 and carried 258-1,252-15 (4.9) and
caught 29-280-1 (9.7). Started all 12 games in
07, rushing 294-1,434-19 (4.9), including a
207-yard effort vs. Bowling Green, and receiving 29-275-1 (9.5). Set school single-season
records for rushing yards (1,434) and rushing
touchdowns (19), and school career marks for
rushing yards (4,398), all-purpose yards (5,248)
and career touchdowns (49).
Positives: Has a compact build and shows some
inside running strength to break out of arm tackles and fight for positive yardage. Runs his legs on
contact. Competes hard. Two-time team captain.
Willing blocker. Dependable hands catcher.
Negatives: Is short and not overly athletic or
elusive for his size. Runs narrow-based. Does
not run with good balance and goes down too
easy. Has struggled vs. better competition and
needs space to create. Has put the ball on the
ground too much. Lacks true power.
Summary: Not flashy in any way, but is a
tough, compact back with some run skills. Will
have to make a mark in special-teams coverage
to stick on a roster.

RB RASHARD

MENDENHALL (Junior)

(5-1018, 225, 4.46) ILLINOIS

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Played


in 10-of-11 games as a true freshman in 2005 as
one of two reserves behind the New Orleans
Saints Pierre Thomas. Carried 48 times for 218
yards (4.5-yard average) and caught 13 passes for
82 yards (6.3) and two touchdowns. Started 1-of12 games in which he played behind Thomas in
06, carrying 78-640 (8.2) and five touchdowns,
and led the Big Ten in yards per carry, but was
plagued by fumbling problems. Also caught 12164-1 (13.7). Started all 13 games in 07, amassing 262-1,681-17 (6.4) rushing and 34-318-2
(9.4) receiving. Led the Big Ten in rushing and
ranked first in the conference in yards per carry
and second in rushing touchdowns. Ranked sixth
nationally in rushing. Also set school single-season records for rushing, rushing touchdowns and
all-purpose yards (1,999).
Positives: Very thickly built and looks every
bit the part. Is layered with muscle on top of muscle. Attacks the perimeter and can break through
arm tackles. Has good leg drive after contact.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

SPORTPICS

RUNNING BACKS

(5-918, 203, 4.76) OHIO

Rashard Mendenhall

l ILLINOIS

Shows good vision and sees the cut-back lane.


Can pick and slide and weave through traffic.
Shows the speed to kick it into another gear and
pull away. Has soft hands and adjusts well to the
ball. Has big-play capability. Very productive.
Negatives: Played in a spread-option offense
where linemen took very wide splits, he had
lanes to run through and rarely was coming out
of the I-formation downhill. Does not run with
good pad level or pick up much yardage after
contact. Not an overly creative runner who
makes many tacklers miss. Gears down to cut.
Runs top-heavy, takes too many direct hits and
could wear down. Does not have great balance
and falls forward and gets tripped up too easily.
Not a great competitor. Was immature and did
not make an immediate impact upon his arrival.
Suspect ball security early in career.
Summary: Scouts have compared him to Herschel Walker because of his straight-linish running style and very impressive physical condition. Has sheer strength and speed and looks like
an absolute phenom, but must prove that he
wants to be great. Really stood out in the Rose
Bowl against a very talented USC defense and
showed he could be a workhorse.

RB JEROME

MESSAM (Junior)

(6-312, 230, 4.55 E) GRACELAND (IOWA)

Notes: The native of Brampton, Ontario


attracted the attention of U.S. colleges when he
ran for 308 yards and two touchdowns to lead
Canada past the U.S. in the 2005 NFL Global
Junior Championship game. Signed a letter of
intent with Rutgers but was declared academically ineligible and ended up enrolling at North
Dakota State College of Science. Played in 10
games as a freshman in 2005, carrying 221 times

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for 1,100 yards with seven touchdowns. Also
had three receptions for 14 yards. Played in six
games in 06, rushing 89-622-6 and catching 578. Still was academically ineligible to play
NCAA Division I ball, so he went to NAIAs
Graceland University (Iowa) in 07 and played
the first seven games before a right knee injury
forced him to miss the final three games. Rushed
168-993-16 and caught 11-147-1. Also had
seven kickoff returns for 180 yards (25.7-yard
average). Had six 100-yard rushing games. His
best game was a 23-235-4 rushing performance,
including a 99-yard TD run, vs. Avila University
on Sept. 22. Carried 41-170-1 the next week vs.
Baker. Turns 23 in April.
Positives: Has rare size and stands out against
very low-level competition. Shows the power to
push the pile and the speed to pull away. Can be
a load once he gets a head of steam. Runs
through arm tackles. Finds creases. Effective in
short-yardage situations
Negatives: Not elusive and makes few tacklers miss. Not initially quick or explosive. Will
get tripped up low and is a little straight-linish.
Does not always run as low as he should.
Summary: Intriguing small-school prospect
with considerable upside to further explore. Has a
similar frame to Giants 2005 fourth-rounder Brandon Jacobs and the pure physical tools to develop.

FB-RB GREG

MOORE

(6-118, 220, 4.69) CINCINNATI

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Primarily a special-teams performer in 04, playing in 11-of-12


games and missing one with a left foot injury.
Cracked the rotation in 05, rushing 62 times for
297 yards (4.8-yard average), tops amongst the
four-RB contingent. Missed two games with
back spasms. Emerged as the starter in Week
Five in 06 and started eight of the final nine
games, finishing with 162-709 and four touchdowns (4.4). Started 3-of-13 games in which he
played in 07, splitting reps with Butler Benton,
and totaling 87-450-2 (5.2) rushing and 13-1832 (14.1) receiving.
Positives: Has good size. Runs hard. Shows
some power inside and can push the pile and
pick up tough yardage.
Negatives: Has no long speed. Limited burst.
Is too easily chased down from the backside.
Tightly wound. Misses some holes and runs with
blinders on. Not a natural hands-catcher. Average work ethic. Could take some time to adjust
to an NFL playbook.
Summary: Has played in a rotation throughout his career and has shown very little upside at
tailback. However, he runs hard enough inside
and could block and catch well enough to consider bulking up and moving to fullback.

RB-FB XAVIER

OMON

(5-1034, 228, 4.63) NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Started 5-of-13 games in

04, rushing 249 times for 1,575 yards (6.3-yard


average) and 19 touchdowns and catching 14
passes for 122 yards (8.7-yard average) and one
touchdown en route to All-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association first-team honors. Started 13-of-14 games in which he played
in 05, carrying 309-1,643-14 (5.3) and snagging
30-224-2 (7.5). Started all 13 games in which he
played in 06, missing two late-season contests
with a broken rib. Carried 343-1,518-22 (4.4)
and caught 17-172-2 (10.1). Started all 14 games
in 07 and rushed 370-2,337-37 (6.3) and
grabbed 29-164-1 (5.7), including 309 yards vs.
Chadron State and 292 yards vs. Grand Valley
State in the Division II playoff semifinals. Led
D-II in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns en
route to MIAA Offensive Player of the Year and
Little All-America (AP) first-team honors. Captured 32 of the schools 34 records for rushing
and scoring, and all of the schools season,
career and postseason rushing records. Finished
as the second player in D-II history with at least
7,000 career rushing yards (7,073) and ranks
third in scoring in D-II history. Became the first
player in NCAA history with at least 1,500 rushing yards in all four seasons.
Positives: Has a thick, well-proportioned
build with outstanding overall size. Catches the
ball easily. Gives effort to block. Experienced
four-year starter.
Negatives: Production is inflated from facing
marginal Division II competition. His vision is
not great and he will bounce too many runs to
the outside. Gets tracked down too easily and is
not sudden in his movement. Takes time to
accelerate. Does not have great balance. Not
quick changing direction and does not string
many moves together. Carries the ball too loosely and can do a better job protecting it. Very raw
blocker gets some bad fits, does not keep his
feet under him and struggles to sustain.
Summary: Showed some natural run instincts
at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game and
fared well against better competition. Has overcome a lot of adversity in his life and sought
football as an outlet. Would be best in a structured environment with a strong support network. Should be able to compete for a No. 3 job.

RB JALEN

PARMELE

(5-1112, 224, 4.53) TOLEDO

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Played in nine games as a true freshman
in 2004, rushing 42 times for 183 yards (4.4-yard
average) and three touchdowns. Appeared in 11of-12 games in 05, missing the Northern Illinois
contest with a sprained right ankle, and carrying
64-294-3 (4.6). Started all 12 games in 06, rushing 207-1,170-8 (5.5) and catching 16 passes for
128 yards (8.0). Started all 12 games in 07, carrying 276-1,511-14 (5.5), grabbing 17-157 (9.2)
and one touchdown and returning 20 kicks for
560 yards (28.0) and one touchdown.
Positives: Naturally athletic. Can sift
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through traffic, stay on his feet and find some
open running lanes. Charges hard with nice leg
drive and will slam inside. Solid football character. Takes great care of his body. Tries hard as
a blocker.
Negatives: Not a physical tackle-breaker, gets
turned and goes down too easy. Does not keep
his shoulders squared to the line. Shows average
burst and play speed with little acceleration out
of his cuts. Makes few tacklers miss. Pad level
tends to rise. Not used much as a receiver.
Summary: Has the measurables and intriguing
athleticism but does not play to his ability. A big,
strong, one-speed, gear-down runner with
enough run strength to compete for a No. 3 job.
Will need at least a few years to develop but
could contribute on special teams and fight for a
roster spot.

RB ALLEN

PATRICK

(6-034, 198, 4.5e) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Enrolled at Independence (Kan.) Community College from 2003-04, redshirting his
sophomore campaign with a broken fibula.
Transferred to Oklahoma in 05 and converted
from defensive back to running back, playing in
11-of-12 games and rushing 25 times for 136
yards (5.5-yard average) and two touchdowns.
Started 5-of-12 games in which he played in 06,
replacing the injured Adrian Peterson, and
totaled 169-761-4 (4.5), highlighted by a 32173-1 (5.4) outing against Texas A&M. Started
all 13 games in which he played in 07, missing
the season opener vs. North Texas with a
sprained right ankle and split reps with DeMarco Murray until the redshirt freshman suffered a
season-ending dislocated kneecap. Rushed 1731,009-8 (5.8), recorded 10 receptions for 56
yards (5.6) and one touchdown and returned six
kicks for 185 yards (30.8). Suffered a knee
sprain in late January while participating in the
East-West Shrine game.
Positives: Has very little body fat and is naturally athletic. Presses the line and gets to and
through the hole quickly when a seam shows.
Plays with intensity. Shows the speed to pull
away.
Negatives: Is narrow-hipped with a medium
build and is not housed to support his hard-running style. Has been dinged up too much and
will struggle to stay healthy. Marginal career
production. Not naturally instinctive, does not
have great vision or innately find holes. Could
take some time to digest a playbook and is best
when his responsibilities are kept simple. Rarely
used as a receiver and is very raw in this area.
Limited blocker.
Summary: Is not big, instinctive or durable
enough to be a front-line starter but has stood out
on special teams and could make it as a core special-teamer and backup runner. Fits best in a
zone-running system where he runs a lot of
stretch-zone plays and can stick a foot in the dirt
and get upfield.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

RB LOUIS

RANKIN

(6-058, 200, 4.5e) WASHINGTON

Notes: His uncle, Webster Slaughter, is a former NFL receiver (1986-98). Compiled 2,245
rushing yards and 34 touchdowns as a high
school senior and was a finalist for Californias
Mr. Football award. Also lettered in basketball
and track. Redshirted in 2003 and received
offensive scout-team MVP recognition.
Appeared in 8-of-11 games as a reserve in 04
and had nine carries for 35 yards (3.9-yard average) and returned 10 kicks for 230 yards (23.0).
Started the first seven games of 05 and rushed
104-485-1 (4.7) and caught six passes for 54
yards (9.0) before a turf toe injury in his left foot
prematurely ended his season. Started 2-of-12
games in 06 and carried 142-666-4 (4.7) and
received 13-75-0 (5.8). Started all 13 games in
07, rushing 233-1,294-6 (5.6), highlighted by
255 yards vs. Stanford and 224 yards vs. California. Caught 20-126-2 (6.3) and also returned
40 kicks for 976 yards (24.4-yard average) and
one touchdown.
Positives: Takes long strides and covers
ground quickly. Plants hard and gets upfield fast.
Can eat up ground quickly and accelerate when
he finds a seam. Good production. Has NFL
bloodlines. Shows a burst and nice vision as a
kickoff returner.
Negatives: Lacks run strength and power to
run inside. Turns his shoulders upon contact and
is not tough or physical. Too leggy and struggles
to change direction quickly and elude defenders.
Limited effort as a blocker lacks base
strength. Too streaky. Picks his spots and disappears for stretches. Average competitor. Plays
too lazy. Can catch with his hands but will let the
ball get into his body.
Summary: Could make a team as a kickoff
returner and No. 3 back.

RB RAY

RICE (Junior)

(5-8, 199, 4.47) RUTGERS

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Started all 12 games as a true freshman in 2005,
rushing 195 times for 1,120 yards (5.7-yard
average) and five touchdowns and catching eight
passes for 65 yards (8.1), highlighted by a 27217-0 (8.0) outing against Connecticut. In 06,
he placed third in Maxwell Award voting as college footballs player of the year after starting all
13 games and rushing 335-1,894-20 (5.4) and
receiving 4-30-0 (7.5), including a 39-225-1
(5.8) rushing performance against Pittsburgh.
Finished second nationally and set a Big East
Conference record in rushing yards. Ranked second in the nation in rushing touchdowns and
became just the third player in school history
with back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons.
Started all 13 games in 07, amassing 3802,012-24 (5.3) on the ground, highlighted by 243
yards vs. Army and 280 vs. Ball State, and had
25-239-1 (9.6) receiving. Ranked second in the
country in rushing touchdowns and third in rush-

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ing yards en route to All-America (AP) secondteam honors. Set school career records for rush
yards (4,926) and rushing touchdowns (49) and
ranks second in points scored (300) and all-purpose yards (5,260). Ranks second in Big East
history in career rushing yards. Also became the
first player to lead the conference in rushing in
consecutive seasons and to rush for at least 1,500
yards in consecutive seasons.
Positives: Very compactly built. Runs low to
the ground with a strong base and shakes off arm
tackles. Has strong hips, keeps his legs churning
and can plow through tacklers and keep his feet.
Does not go down easy. Very good balance
through traffic. Very tough. Great body strength.
Possesses great vision in the hole and the second-level quickness to sidestep defenders. Very
decisive. Picks up yardage in chunks. Is alert in
pass protection and willing to face up. Excellent
production.
Negatives: Has had a lot of carries in his short
career and durability needs to be considered
(shoulders). Is not a blazer or very quick initially and can be caught from behind. Not fluid
changing direction or making multiple lateral
cuts. Does not show a top gear. Very limited production as a receiver. Limited return experience.
Summary: A strong, bowling-ball-type of runner, Rice runs very hard, is aggressive attacking
the line and attacks defenses. Hes tough,
instinctive and productive and, although not as
fast as teams would like, he should be able to
contribute readily in the pros in a complementary power-type of role.

RB DANTRELL

SAVAGE

(5-814, 187, 4.59) OKLAHOMA STATE

Notes: Enrolled at Mississippi Gulf Coast


Community College in 2004-05, rushing for 800
yards as a freshman and 1,249 yards as a sophomore. Transferred to Oklahoma State in 06 and
overtook the incumbent, sophomore Mike
Hamilton, to start the final 5-of-13 games
despite missing the first two contests of the season with a strained left medial collateral ligament. Finished with 126 carries for 820 yards
(6.5-yard average) and eight touchdowns and
caught eight passes for 48 yards (6.0). Started all
11 games in which he played in 07, missing the
Florida Atlantic and Troy contests with groin
and abdominal strains, and carried 223-1,272-9
(5.7) and caught 27-259-2 (9.6).
Positives: Good feet, quickness and short-area
burst. Shows a nice spin move and can sidestep
tacklers. Shows the ability to create in space and
accelerate away from the pack. Catches the ball
well and shows the ability to elude after the
catch. Quick as a hiccup. Can stick his foot in
the dirt and go. Very productive despite his size.
Tough and competitive. Good worker. Could
have a chance as a kickoff returner.
Negatives: Simply too small and not a great
athlete for as little as he is. Has no power. Marginal run strength between the tackles. Too often

gets turned and twisted and struggles to keep his


shoulders squared to the line of scrimmage.
Durability has been, and always will be, an issue
given his lack of size. Overwhelmed as a blocker.
Summary: Best chance could come lined up
in the slot, where he could use his suddenness to
uncover and create after the catch. An undersized space player who could bring added value
if he can handle returning kicks.

FB OWEN

SCHMITT

(6-2, 247, 4.79) WEST VIRGINIA

Notes: Attended Wisconsin-River Falls as a


true freshman in 2003 and rushed 193 times for
1,063 yards (5.5-yard average) and five touchdowns and caught two passes for 10 yards (5.0).
Transferred to West Virginia and redshirted in
04. Started 4-of-12 games in 05, giving way to
multiple-receiver sets, and rushed 48-380-2 (7.9)
and caught eight passes for 76 yards (9.5). Also
received the Iron Mountaineer Award as the top
performer in the winter workout program. Started 6-of-13 games in 06, again giving way to
various formations and carrying 65-351-7 (5.4)
and receiving 12-91-1 (7.6), highlighted by a 13109-2 (8.4) rushing performance as an injury
replacement for Steve Slaton in the Gator Bowl
against Georgia Tech. Started 12-of-13 games in
which he played in 07, rushing 47-272-4 (5.8)
and grabbing 12-121-1 (10.1).
Positives: Strong runner who can push the
pile. Tough. Flashes explosive power and hip
roll. Can initiate contact on the second level.
Goes to the whistle. Catches the ball easily and
runs hard up the field after the catch. Very good
straight-line speed for his size. Takes care of the
football. Solid special-teams contributor. Very
durable and will fight through injuries. Solid
character. Hardworking.
Negatives: Too often late to the block point.
Very tightly wound. Struggles to translate his
weight-room strength to the field. Has a bad
body with short arms, a long torso and smooth
calves. Runs upright with a high pad level.
Struggles to adjust to moving targets on the second level. Does not easily adjust to the ball. Did
not play in a pro-style offense in which he was
asked regularly to isolate on linebackers.
Summary: Really struggled at the Senior
Bowl and had difficulty matching up against better competition, consistently getting out-leveraged at the point and knocked around. Too often
looked like the nail instead of the hammer and
could always be hindered be leverage deficiencies, given his rigidity.

RS-RB CHAD

SIMPSON

(5-858, 216, 4.42) MORGAN STATE

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Attended the University of South Florida and redshirted in 2004. Played 10-of-12 games in 05, rushing 16 times for 89 yards (5.6-yard average) and
returned 16 kickoffs for 404 yards (25.3) and
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(50). Sustained a leg injury in the first quarter of
the 2008 Fiesta Bowl vs. Oklahoma and was
unable to return.
Positives: Can accelerate in a blink and possesses great top-end speed. Gets through the
hole quickly and could make defenders miss in
the open field. Can score every time he touches
the ball. Outstanding production.
Negatives: Is rail thin and not built to withstand a pounding. Takes himself out of games
and is not much of a competitor. Does not run
with any strength or power and thinks he is better than he is. Has a prima donna attitude and
requires high maintenance. Played in a spreadoption offense and was not asked to run between
the tackles. Most of his production came moving
laterally on the edges, and he is only effective in
space. Often went untouched at the line of
scrimmage and didnt have to be overly elusive.
Was rarely asked to pass-block and has not
proven to be an every-down back. Durability has
been suspect.
Summary: A soft-running system player who
is best in space, Slaton could fit a dynamic,
change-of-pace, situational-type role and brings
most value on third downs. Could be overdrafted on hype but still has a lot to prove and could
disrupt chemistry in a locker room.

RB STEVE

RUNNING BACKS

one touchdown, highlighted by a 94-yard TD


return in an upset win against Louisville. Transferred to Morgan State in 06 and started 6-of-11
games, carrying 147-795-9 (5.4), catching six
passes for 13 yards (2.2) and returning kicks 14310-0 (22.1). Started all 11 games in 07, rushing 276-1,402-14 (5.1), receiving 9-201-1 (22.3)
and returning kicks 7-175-0 (25.0). Set the
school single-season rushing record and led the
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference in rushing and
scoring en route to MEAC Offensive Player of
the Year honors.
Positives: Looked like hes moving at a different speed against average competition and
shows good burst and acceleration. Very strong
pound for pound. Is athletic and can string some
moves together and dodge tacklers with hard
cuts. Runs hard, stays on his feet through traffic
and can slip off tacklers. Very determined.
Negatives: Has hard hands, catches with his
body and is seldom used in the passing game.
Flags the ball. Disinterested blocker. Will need
time to digest a playbook.
Summary: Could take some time to develop
but has a chance to compete for a third-down,
change-of-pace and return job if he continues to
work on catching the ball. Bulked up and performed well at Combine.

RB ADRAIN

SLATON (Junior)

SMITH

RUNNING BACKS

(5-918, 197, 4.49) WEST VIRGINIA

(5-918, 218, 4.66) BETHEL COLLEGE (TENN.)

Notes: Registered more than 6,000 career


rushing yards and 73 touchdowns as a prep and
also lettered in track. Started 7-of-10 games in
which he played as a true freshman in 2005,
earning Big East Rookie of the Year recognition.
Amassed 205 carries for 1,128 yards and 17
touchdowns (5.5-yard average) and 12 receptions for 95 yards and two touchdowns (7.9).
Posted 31-188-5 (6.1) and 3-20-1 (6.7) in a
triple-overtime victory against Louisville, tying
a conference single-game record for TDs (six).
Also racked up 26-204-3 (7.8) against Georgia,
setting the Sugar Bowl record for rushing yards
and was given the Iron Mountaineer Award as
the top performer in the winter workout program. Started all 13 games in 06, although he
was hampered by a right wrist injury throughout
the season. Compiled 248-1,744-16 (7.0) and
caught 27-360-2 (13.3), including 21-195-2
(9.2) against Maryland and 23-215-2 (9.2) and
6-130-2 (21.7) against Pittsburgh. Set the school
single-season record for rushing yards, ranking
first nationally in yards per carry amongst running backs with at least 200 carries. Also placed
fourth in Heisman Trophy voting. Recovered
from an in-season left elbow injury that numbed
his hand and was responsible for his late-season
fumbling woes. Underwent surgery in January to
have a pin set in the right wrist and consequently missed spring practice to recover. Started all
13 games in 07, carrying 211-1,051-17 (5.0)
and catching 26-350-1 (13.5). Finished as the
schools all-time leader in rushing touchdowns

Notes: Started 10 games as a true freshman in


2004, recording 145 carries for 963 yards and
eight touchdowns (6.6) and 13 receptions for 114
yards and one touchdown (8.8). Missed a game
with a sprained ankle. In 05, started all 11 contests, rushing 165-1,139-8 (6.9) and catching 13179-4 (13.8). Started 12 games in 06, carrying
193-1,538-22 (7.9) and catching 8-147-1 (18.4).
Started 9-of-13 games in 07, splitting time with
Terrance Bell, and rushed 218-1,635-28 (7.5)
and received 14-200-0 (14.3). Finished second in
NAIA in scoring per game (13.1) and receiving
NAIA All-America first-team honors for the second straight year. Set the school single-season
and career (5,275) rushing records and the single-season mark for points scored (170).
Positives: Has a sturdy, strong build and has
stayed healthy while shouldering a heavy workload. Fine run instincts and vision. Stands out at
the lowest level of competition and has the ability to keep his pads down and run through tacklers. Nice contact balance. Very willing in pass
protection. Has big hands and protects the ball.
Lines up outside and catches it easily. Solid
work ethic and character.
Negatives: Lacks foot speed for the pro level
and shows little burst in his step. Will struggle to
get to the perimeter.
Summary: Flashed some run skills and vision
at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game but still
must prove he is more than a big fish in a little
pond. Should warrant a chance to compete for a
job.

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RB KEVIN

SMITH (Junior)

(6-118, 217, 4.58) CENTRAL FLORIDA

Notes: Started the final 11-of-13 games in


which he played as a true freshman in 2005,
overtaking incumbent Dontavius Wilcox in
Week Three. Rushed 249 times for 1,178 yards
(4.7-yard average) and nine touchdowns, highlighted by 209 yards in the Hawaii Bowl vs.
Nevada. Also caught eight passes for 44 yards
(5.5). Set the schools single-season rushing
record for freshmen. Started all nine games in
which he played in 06, missing the South Florida contest for disciplinary reasons and the final
two games of the season with a shoulder injury
suffered vs. Memphis. Also left in the third quarter vs. Marshall and did not return with an undisclosed injury. Finished with 206-934-7 (4.5) on
the ground and 23-158 (6.9) receiving. Started
all 14 games in 07 but left in the fourth quarter
vs. Louisiana-Lafayette with a shoulder injury
and a tweaked groin. Carried 450-2,567-29 (5.7)
and grabbed 24-242 (10.1) and one touchdown.
Compiled 200-plus-yard rushing performances
vs. North Carolina State (217), LouisianaLafayette (223), UTEP (219) and Tulsa (284),
plus a single-game school record 320 yards vs.
UAB. Led the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns and set the Conference USA single-season rushing touchdowns record en route to CUSA Offensive Player of the Year honors. Finished as the schools all-time leader in rushing
yards (4,679), rushing touchdowns (45), TDs
scored (46) and all-purpose yards (5,123). Ranks
first in NCAA single-season history in carries
and second in rushing yards behind Barry
Sanderss 2,628 in 1988, and became only the
13th player in D-I history to amass at least 2,000
single-season rushing yards.
Positives: Very competitive. Shows good run
instincts, vision and patience. Outstanding cutback ability. Has a feel for angles and where
tacklers are coming from and reacts quickly to
what he sees. Has a knack for finding creases.
Has deceptive speed covers a lot of ground
with long strides. Can string some moves together seamlessly, plant and go. Has sure, reliable
hands. Gives effort as a blocker. Outstanding
production.
Negatives: Is thin-framed, lacks bulk and bulk
strength and struggles to drive through contact
and push a pile. Runs too tall and takes too many
hits. Is not overly elusive or initially quick and
takes some time to build speed. Lacks top gear
and burst. Has been asked to shoulder an awfully big load and was overworked as a junior with
450 carries could be vulnerable to an early
breakdown. Is not physical and can be intimidated by a very physical front. Production is grossly inflated from facing lesser competition.
Summary: Vision, instincts and cut-back ability could make him most ideally suited for a
zone-running game. If teams evaluated his flashes, he might look like a future Pro Bowler. Has
put together an impressive display of highlight-

reel runs, but snap to snap, he could struggle to


handle the inside running game of the pro game
because of his average run strength and lanky
body structure.

FB CARL

STEWART

(6-1, 230, 4.69) AUBURN

Notes: Also competed in the decathlon and


sprints for the track team as a prep. Redshirted in
2003. Saw action in all 13 games in 04, rushing
39 times for 184 yards (4.7-yard average) and
two touchdowns and catching six balls for 99
yards (16.5). Played in nine games in 05, carrying for 42-151-2 (3.6) and catching 6-60 (10.0).
Started 6-of-12 games in 06, gaining 27-98-3
(3.6) on the ground and snagging 13-239 (18.4)
and two touchdowns. Graduated before the season. Started 5-of-13 games in which he played in
07, carrying 20-49-2 (2.5) and catching 14-2140 (15.3).
Positives: Shows nice peripheral blocking
vision to find lanes and lead backs through the
hole. Moves well for his size with long arms and
gets good fits on the second level. Natural catcher adjusts to the ball. Can pick up tough
yardage in confined spaces. Is alert to pick up
the blitz. Has a good football temperament.
Good competitor. Solid character. Unselfish
team leader.
Negatives: Needs to add some bulk and bulk
mass and get stronger. Is not powerful and could
do a better job of finishing blocks. Shows some
tightness in his movement. Does not run his feet
on contact. Lack of overall size has contributed
to a lot of minor injuries knee, back and calf
and could always be dinged up.
Summary: Has enough run skills, vision and
speed to warrant some looks in one-back sets
and could factor into the short-running game.
Has a special-teams mentality and should be
able to factor readily in that area.

RB-KR JONATHAN

STEWART (Junior)

(5-1014, 235, 4.47) OREGON

Notes: Named Parade All-American,


Gatorade Player of the Year and USA Today AllUSA after amassing 204 carries for 2,301 yards
(11.3-yard average) and 32 touchdowns as a
high school senior. Finished prep career as
Washingtons all-time leading rusher with 7,755
yards. Added 95 TDs despite breaking his ankle
as a sophomore. Also lettered in track, anchoring
the state champion 4x100-meter relay team and
finished second in the 100 meters (11.17 seconds). Started 1-of-10 games in which he played
as a true freshman in 2005, rushing 53-188-6
(3.5), catching seven passes for 45 yards (6.4)
and one touchdown and returning 12 kicks for
404 yards (33.7) and two touchdowns, leading
the nation in kick-return average. Returned kicks
83 yards and 97 yards for scores against Montana and Oregon State, respectively. Started 10of-13 games in 06 but was hampered all season
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er against Stanford and bruised ribs sustained
against Portland State. Carried 183-981-10
(5.4), grabbed 20-144-1 (7.2) and returned kicks
23-646-0 (28.1), ranking sixth nationally in
kick-return average. Started 12-of-13 games in
which he played in 07, amassing 280-1,722-11
(6.2) on the ground, highlighted by 251 yards vs.
Washington and a Sun Bowl-record 253 yards
vs. South Florida. Also gained 22-145-2 (6.6)
receiving and returned kicks 23-614-0 (26.7).
Ranked first in the Pacific-10 and fifth nationally in rush yards. Also set school single-season
records for rushing yards, all-purpose yards
(2,481) and 100-yard games (14).
Positives: Is sculpted like a Greek god with a
very thick musculature and looks like he was
made to be a bellcow back. Very, very strong
with good power and snap in his hips. Has unbelievably strong hips and incredibly strong balance on contact. Carries his pads well and can
power through tackles. Shows good vision to see
cut-back lanes and fight through traffic and can
accelerate when he finds daylight and finish
runs. Is surprisingly agile for as compact as he
is. Can move the pile and pick up tough yards
inside. Drives through contact. Very tough and
will play through pain. Faces up defenders in
pass protection and has the stoutness to stick to
his blocks and anchor. Catches the ball easily.
Very solid character.
Negatives: Ran out of a spread-option offense
in which he often received the ball moving laterally instead of downhill like he will be asked to
do in the pros. Short-stepper who does not open
up his stride and does not appear sudden, quick
or capable of running away from defenders.
Does not string a lot of moves together. Shows
some tightness in his movement. Has had a number of foot and ankle injuries and sheer girth
could continue to put stress on his lower extremities.
Summary: The most complete back in the
draft, Stewart could be misevaluated because of
the spread offense in which he played and his
deceptive, short-stepping style. But he is a load
to tackle, possessing a unique blend of speed,
power and strength and should be able to make
an immediate impact in the pros the way he did
in college. A very safe pick with Pro Bowl-caliber talent. Could easily fit into the top 10 and be
the first back drafted.

RB TONY

TEMPLE

(5-838, 201, 4.55e) MISSOURI

Notes: Rushed for 5,295 yards and 85 touchdowns as a prep and also lettered in track. Came
out of redshirt as a true freshman in 2004 to play
one game, rushing six times for 13 yards (2.2yard average), but missed the rest of the season
with minor ankle and shoulder injuries. Started
2-of-10 games in which he played in 05, missing two contests with a sprained left ankle, and
carried 81-437 (5.4) and three touchdowns and
caught 16 passes for 70 yards (4.4). Also
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Jonathan Stewart

l OREGON

returned 16 kicks for 376 yards (23.5). Underwent postseason surgery for a shoulder injury
and sat out 06 spring practice to recover. That
June, was arrested and charged with third-degree
assault after punching a man with whom his girlfriend was arguing. Was sentenced to community service, paid a $500 fine and was suspended
from the team for the summer. Returned to start
12-of-13 games in 06, despite then suffering a
late-season dislocated shoulder and rushed 1931,063-7 (5.5), caught 6-34 (5.7) and returned
kicks 2-38 yards (19.0). Also did not start
against Nebraska because of fumbling issues.
Started 11-of-12 games in which he played in
07, missing midseason contests vs. Oklahoma
and Texas Tech with a sprained ankle suffered
vs. Nebraska. Rushed 186-1,039-12 (5.6),
including 281 yards and four touchdowns vs.
Arkansas, both Cotton Bowl records. Also
grabbed 7-68-1 (9.7).
Positives: Runs very hard and has a low center of gravity and good balance to power through
some arm tackles. Shows enough speed to attack
the perimeter. Tough.
Negatives: Too tightly wound. Not elusive
and takes some big hits that he struggles to
avoid. Has struggled to hold on to the ball. Had
big lanes to run through. Can be tracked down
from behind. Thinks he is better than he is. Not
a great worker. Is not big or built to withstand a
lot of contact and has suffered ankle and shoulder injuries on both sides. Not a great athlete.
Lacks the top-end speed and acceleration to be
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has a small catching radius.
Summary: Showed some big-time flashes as a
senior, outplaying Darren McFadden in the Cotton Bowl and running very hard, but his lack of
size, elusiveness and durability, as well as ballsecurity issues, are all legitimate concerns.

RB JAMARIO

THOMAS

(5-9, 214, 4.59) NORTH TEXAS

Notes: Rushed for more than 4,600 yards and


75 touchdowns as a prep and also lettered in
powerlifting and track. Started 9-of-11 games in
which he played as a true freshman in 2004 as an
injury replacement for the Miami Dolphins
Patrick Cobbs and rushed 285 times for 1,801
yards and 17 touchdowns (6.3-yard average) and
caught three passes for 14 yards (4.7-yard average). Led all of Division I in rushing yards per
game (180.1), ranked fifth in scoring average
(11.3) and set the NCAA freshman record for
200-yard games (six), highlighted by a 32-247-2
(7.7) performance against Colorado and a 28291-4 (10.4) showing against Idaho. Also earned
Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year. Played
8-of-11 games in 05, backing up Cobbs and
missing three games with a hamstring injury.
Totaled 89-361-0 (4.1) and also returned two
kicks for 52 yards (26.0). Started 11-of-12
games in 06 and carried 181-787-2 (3.7) and
caught 11-32-0 (2.9). Started all 11 games in
which he played in 07, missing the SMU contest with a hamstring injury, and rushed 112666-8 (5.9), caught 16-37-0 (2.3) and returned
kicks 2-39 (19.5). Ranks second in school history in career rushing yards (3,496) and third in
all-purpose yards (3,670).
Positives: Good strength and musculature.
Good weight-room strength. Runs low to the
ground. Shows some vision to pick and slide and
will follow his blockers. Good patience.
Negatives: Not a burner and does not possess
home-run speed. Does not run as hard or as
physical as he did earlier in career. Not physically or mentally tough and is too bothered by
injuries. Does not like to play through pain. Is
not overly big, powerful or fast and does not
stand out in any area. Average blocker. Has average hands and is late to turn upfield. Shows little
creativity after the catch.
Summary: Emerged on the scene as a freshman but has since struggled to sustain his success, having been slowed by injury and a new
coaching staff and getting shut down by better
competition. Has enough strength to consider
giving a chance.

RB MARCUS

THOMAS

(6-014, 213, 4.61) UTEP

Notes: Named a Parade All-American after


amassing 3,573 rushing yards and 47 touchdowns and 10 receptions for 350 yards (35.0yard average) and three touchdowns as a high
school senior. Also lettered in basketball and
track. Appeared in 10-of-12 games as a true

freshman in 2004, rushing 37 times for 145


yards (3.9) and catching three passes for seven
yards (2.3). In 05, opened the season on a redshirt due to depth at the RB position before
returning to action and starting the final 6-of-11
games. Carried 149-791 (5.3) and five TDs,
caught 32-440 (13.8) and three TDs and returned
four kicks for 65 yards (16.2). Started 10-of-11
games in which he played in 06, missing the
Marshall contest with a broken finger and rushed
156-513-5 (3.3) and grabbed 39-242-1 (6.2).
Started all 11 games in which he played in 07,
missing the season opener vs. New Mexico
because of suspension for violating an NCAA
rule he allowed a non-scholarship teammate
to purchase textbooks on his university account.
Finished with 227-1,166-16 (5.1) on the ground
and 20-268-2 (13.4) as a receiver.
Positives: Has good size and strength. Runs
with patience, waits for lanes to uncover and is
decisive when they appear. Usually falls forward. Flashes some agility to sidestep a tackler.
Catches the ball with ease and factors into the
short-passing game. Has a feel for finding open
areas. Solid short-yardage runner. Solid worker.
Negatives: Not an elusive runner a bit
straight-linish and slow to change direction, nor
does he run with a lot of power. Average burst
and acceleration. Does not play fast. Can struggle to make a defender miss in the hole and beat
a stacked box. Was shut down by Central Florida and can be contained. Has small hands. Could
become more consistent sustaining as a blocker.
Summary: Has flown under the radar in an
unheralded program but is high-cut, runs upright
and lacks the burst to be more than a No. 3.

RB RYAN

TORAIN

(6-038, 222, 4.71) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Attended Butler Community College
(Kan.) in 2004, seeing limited duty. Ran for 816
yards and 12 TDs in 05, missing four games
with injury and splitting carries with current
Nebraska RB Kenny Wilson. Graduated from
Butler C.C. in the spring of 06 and enrolled at
ASU that summer. Started the final 8-of-13
games in 06, rushing 223 times for 1,229 yards
(5.5-yard average) and seven touchdowns and
catching 18 passes for 205 yards (11.3) and three
touchdowns. Started six of the first seven games
in 07, missing the San Diego State contest with
knee and ankle injuries, before suffering a season-ending Lisfranc injury (fracture near his big
toe) vs. Washington. Underwent surgery for the
injury in mid-October. Rushed 110-553-5 (5.0)
and grabbed 7-100-2 (14.3) on the season.
Positives: Looks the part. Runs hard and will
fight for extra yardage. Picks up yards in chunks
and can rip off some 30-yard runs. Can power
his way through tackles inside. Has good hands
and receiving skills. Takes the game seriously,
competes and works hard.
Negatives: Not patient. Misses some holes
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and will run up the backs of blockers. Struggles
to find lanes if they do not uncover. Lacks burst
and top-end speed to break away. Not elusive in
space and leaves his body vulnerable to take
some big hits. Only takes what the defense gives
him. Not alert to pick up the linebacker blitz and
will need work in pass protection. Could be slow
to assimilate a playbook. Durability is a concern
coming off Lisfranc surgery. Poor 40 showing at
the Combine.
Summary: Size, strength and inside running
ability could give him a shot as a complementary
power back if he could handle digesting the
complexity of an NFL offense and stay healthy.

RB BOBBY

WASHINGTON

(6-014, 216, 4.59) EASTERN KENTUCKY

Notes: Cousin, Derrick Gibson, was selected


out of Florida State by the Raiders in the first
round of the 2001 NFL draft. Parade All-American rushed for 5,695 yards and 61 touchdowns
in prep career and was part of a 4x100-meter
relay team that placed second in state of Florida.
Initially signed with Miami (Fla.) out of high
school but asked to be released from his scholarship and enrolled at North Carolina State. In two
seasons there, he compiled 65 carries for 185
yards and three touchdowns (2.8-yard average)
and nine receptions for 48 yards (5.3). Transferred to Eastern Kentucky in 06 and played in
reserve for all 11 games, carrying 116-534-4
(4.6) and catching 18-159-2 (8.8). Started 6-of12 games in which he played in 07, splitting
reps with senior Mark Dunn. Finished with 1721,025-11 (6.0) rushing, 26-257-2 (9.9) receiving
and returned nine kicks for 270 yards (30.0) and
one touchdown.
Positives: Very good size. Shows run strength
and power to break tackles and pick up positive
yardage. Catches the ball well. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Not an innately instinctual runner.
Relies too much on natural athleticism and has
not applied himself. Does not like to do the
extras it takes to be great. Disinterested in blocking. Has not faced great competition. Shows little elusiveness. Will take time to learn a playbook.
Summary: Has some natural tools with which
to work, but a lack of discipline could be his
undoing at the professional level. Has earned the
underachiever label and will struggle to escape
from it.

RB CHAUNCEY

WASHINGTON

(5-1138, 211, 4.6e) USC

Notes: Also lettered in soccer and track as a


prep. Played in seven games as a true freshman
in 2003, missing six games with a stress fracture
in his right ankle and rushed 19 times for 65
yards (3.4-yard average) and caught one pass for
six yards. Redshirted in 04 and sat out in 05
because of academics. Started 4-of-13 games in
06, rushing 157-744 (4.7) with nine touchw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

downs and grabbing nine passes for 93 yards


(10.3). Was slowed in November by a strained
knee. Started the final 11-of-12 games in which
he played in 07 after sophomore C.J. Gable suffered a season-ending groin injury. Rushed 195969-10 (5.0), highlighted by a 221-yard effort
vs. California and caught 7-59-2 (8.4).
Positives: Has good size. Shows some strength
and power to stay on his feet after contact.
Negatives: Body looks like it has not seen a
weight room. Really struggled to convert some
short-yardage situations (see Stanford) and does
not play with the power his size suggests. Not
quick, elusive or explosive and shows little
bounce in his feet or suddenness out of his
breaks. Needs to be more patient and let plays
unfold. Could take better care of the football.
Career weight fluctuation and work ethic are
concerns. Has seldom been used in the passing
game. Falls off too many blocks. Has a history of
ankle, knee and hamstring injuries. Could be
challenged by a complex NFL offense.
Summary: Dropped considerable weight as a
senior and showed renewed commitment to the
game following an injury-riddled career. Moved
better than expected at the Senior Bowl and
could bring value as an inside runner but has
some lingering concerns that always could be
restricting.

RB ALBERT

YOUNG

(5-818, 207, 4.6e) IOWA

Notes: Ended his prep career as the all-time


leading rusher in South New Jersey with 5,411
yards despite missing a few games in his junior
year with a sprained medial collateral ligament.
Redshirted in 2003 after breaking his fibula in
preseason camp. Saw action in two games in
04, starting one and carrying 27 times for 92
yards (3.4-yard average) and two touchdowns
and catching two passes for 22 yards (11.0)
before ending his season by tearing the anterior
cruciate ligament in his right knee and having
surgery. Started 11-of-12 games in 05 and
rushed 249-1,334-8 (5.4) to lead the Big Ten in
rushing. Hauled in 24-244 (10.2) as a receiver.
Started 11-of-13 games in 06, missing Weeks
Six and Seven due to a strained left MCL, rushing 178-803-7 (4.5) and catching 30-225-1 (7.5).
Started all 12 games in 07 and carried 206-9686 (4.7) and grabbed 23-212-1 (9.2).
Positives: Is naturally strong, built low to the
ground and shows the ability to pick and slide.
Negatives: Too short and tightly wound. Not
fast or overly shifty. Lacks burst and explosion.
Is not a fluid mover. Takes what the defense
gives him and picks up little else. Does not have
elite speed to pull away. Has not contributed in
the return game. Not a consistent catcher. Durability is suspect.
Summary: Best season came as a sophomore,
when he appeared to run more decisively and
competitively than he has the past two years.
Could warrant a chance in a camp.

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JAMES D. SMITH

WIDE RECEIVERS
PFWS TOP

10

WR-RB-RS ANTHONY

ALRIDGE

(5-9, 170, 4.39) HOUSTON

Notes: Preachers son. Redshirted as a true


freshman in 2003. Was not enrolled in school in
04 as a result of academics. Returned in 05 to
start 6-of-12 games at wide receiver and recorded 13 receptions for 295 yards and three touchdowns (22.7-yard average), along with nine carries for 39 yards (4.3). Started 4-of-14 games at
wide receiver (two) and running back (two) and
also returned kicks in 06. Caught 19-274-1
(14.1) and rushed 95-959-8 (10.1), leading the
nation in yards per carry, and returned kicks 27603 (22.3). Started 12-of-13 games in 07 at running back (11) and quarterback (one), coming
off the bench only against Alabama when the
team opened in a four-receiver set. Rushed 2591,597-14 (6.2), caught 42-428-5 (10.2) and
returned kickoffs 9-233-0 (25.9).
Positives: Has rare speed and can flat-out fly.
Is electric with the ball in his hands. Superfast in
space outstanding burst and acceleration.
Takes angles away from defenders and can hit a
crease in a blink. Is a threat to score every time
he touches the ball. Catches the ball well. Very
competitive.
Negatives: Has a frail build with marginal run
strength to break tackles. Will wear down easily

at 170 pounds and lacks the bulk to run inside.


Not overly elusive changing direction or stringing
moves together. Raw, inexperienced route runner.
Summary: Explosive playmaker with good
value as a space player and return specialist.
Could be very effective on the perimeter running
reverses and specialty plays and giving offenses
a big-play threat on third downs. Durability
remains the biggest question.

WR-PR DANNY

AMENDOLA

(5-1012, 183, 4.69) TEXAS TECH

Notes: Father is a football coach. Appeared in


all 12 games as a true freshman in 2004, compiling 13 receptions for 119 yards (9.2-yard
average) and one touchdown. Also returned 29
punts for 371 yards (12.8) and one touchdown
and eight kickoffs for 149 yards (18.6). Started
8-of-12 games in 05 in a rotation with L.A.
Reed and Shannon Woods in the Red Raiders
four-WR sets, grabbing 34-395-3 (11.6) and
returning punts 32-313-0 (9.8) and kickoffs 9141-0 (15.7). In 06, started 11-of-13 games,
catching 48-487-5 (10.1) and returning punts 41377-0 (9.2). Started all 13 games in 07, catching
109-1,245-6 (11.4) and returning punts 14-222
(15.9). Ranked fourth in the nation in receptions.
Positives: Is quick-footed and can get in and
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

WIDE RECEIVERS

1. LIMAS SWEED
2. Devin Thomas
3. Malcolm Kelly
4. Mario Manningham
5. James Hardy
6. Jordy Nelson
7. Early Doucet
8. DeSean Jackson
9. Andre Caldwell
10. Dexter Jackson

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out of routes. Shows the toughness to cross the
middle. Will go up and attack the ball in the air.
Shifty, runs low to the ground and can make
sharp cuts with the ball in his hands. Plays smart,
works through zones and shows a good feel for
coverages. Nice run balance. Gets upfield fast as
a punt returner. Gives good effort as a blocker.
Solid character. Has been very durable despite
marginal size. Outstanding production.
Negatives: Too small. Has small hands and
very short arms and even when he goes up to get
the ball, it can be easily batted away because of
his lack of wingspan and reach. Lacks bulk.
Average athlete. Lacks vertical speed. Not
explosive with the ball in his hands. Does not
have great run strength to pop through tackles.
Ran poor 40-time at Combine.
Summary: A short, quicker-than-fast, surehanded slot receiver and punt returner with great
toughness and competitiveness. Will likely have
to make it as a returner and has the intangibles
and work habits to gain the trust of coaches and
work his way into the receiver rotation.

WR ADRIAN

ARRINGTON (Junior)

(6-278, 203, 4.65e) MICHIGAN

Notes: Named Iowa Gatorade Player of the


Year as a high school senior. Also lettered in basketball and track. Appeared in 8-of-12 games
behind NFL draftees Braylon Edwards, Jason
Avant and Steve Breaston as a true freshman in
2004 and caught 2-12-0 (6.0). Redshirted in 05
after breaking his right ankle on a kickoff in the
season opener against Northern Illinois. In 06,
started 4-of-13 games in three-WR sets and as
an injury replacement for Mario Manningham,
grabbing 40-544-8 (13.6). In October 06, was
arraigned on domestic violence charges after an
argument with his girlfriend in which he allegedly pushed her out of her own vehicle and drove
away, leaving scratches on her hand. Charges
were dismissed because his girlfriend refused to
show up for a pretrial conference. In 07, was
suspended by head coach Lloyd Carr for unspecified reasons and barred from all team activities,
including spring practice. After allegedly running the stadium steps for 60 consecutive days
as part of his punishment, was allowed to return
to team functions. Started all 13 games in 07
and tallied 67-882-8 (13.2).
Positives: Good body length. Can run through
arm tackles. Has spring in his legs, times his
jumps well and will snag the jump ball. Has a
knack for making difficult, diving and one-handed grabs. Above-average blocker.
Negatives: Too thinly built. Long strider.
Inconsistent hands. Too often lets the ball into
his chest rather than catching with his hands.
Not explosive off the line. Shows no acceleration. Lacks vertical speed. Is upright and rigid as
a route runner and cannot separate against tight
man coverage. Does not care for the weight
room and is not much of a blocker. Must prove
that domestic-violence incident was an aberraw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

tion. Has had multiple off-field incidents.


Summary: Joined the mass exodus of offensive talent at Michigan before Rich Rodriguez
retooled the offense. Finished the season strong,
but still lacks the functional speed, football
smarts and maturity desired at the pro level and
could take time to adjust. Solid possession
receiver. Chose not to work out at the Combine.

WR JABARI

ARTHUR

(6-314, 227, 4.6e) AKRON

Notes: Name is pronounced Ja-BARRY. Football captain of Team Canada as a junior in high
school and also lettered in track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 2-of-9 games in 04 at
wide receiver, missing the Central Florida and
Ball State contests with a separated left shoulder
and also saw action in reserve at quarterback.
Recorded 23 receptions for 270 yards (11.7-yard
average) and also completed 3-of-6 passes (50
percent) for 12 yards. In 05, appeared exclusively at wide receiver and started 1-of-12
games, missing the Ball State game with a concussion. Caught 30-482 (16.1) and three touchdowns, including a Motor City Bowl-record 180
receiving yards with two TDs on six receptions.
Started 10-of-12 games in 06 and caught 45730-4 (16.2). Underwent postseason surgery for
a fracture in his left foot and sat out of spring
practice. Recovered to start all 12 games in 07
and grabbed 86-1,171-10 (13.6), highlighted by
a school single-game record 15 receptions for
223 yards. Was selected sixth overall by the Calgary Stampeders in the 07 Canadian Football
League draft.
Positives: Has outstanding size. Competes for
the ball in traffic. Works hard and caught the ball
more consistently as a senior. Solid character.
Negatives: Has short arms. Takes long strides
and is not sudden or quick into his routes. Has
build-up speed. Runs upright and does not sell
his routes. Not elusive after the catch. Not the
physical blocker that would be expected for as
big as he is. Has faced average competition.
Summary: Took strides as a senior and performed well at the Hula Bowl, where he had
game highs with five catches for 88 yards. Can
create some mismatches with his size and could
compete for a job as a possession-type, Z
receiver in a West Coast offense.

WR DONNIE

AVERY

(5-11, 192, 4.46) HOUSTON

Notes: Redshirted as a true freshman in 2003.


Started all 11 games and returned kicks and
punts in 04, compiling 18 receptions for 293
yards and two touchdowns (16.3-yard average),
18 kickoff returns for 343 yards (19.1) and three
punt returns for 28 yards (9.3). Started 10-of-12
games in 05, catching 44-588-5 (15.6). In 06,
started 12-of-14 games, giving way to a twoback set against Southern Mississippi, grabbing
57-852-5 (14.9) and returning kickoffs 6-113-0
(18.8). Started 12-of-13 games in 07, giving

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way to a two-back set vs. Texas Southern, and
corralling 91-1,456-7 (16.0) and returning kickoffs 15-424-1 (28.3).
Positives: Has rare speed and covers ground
fast. Moves very fluidly and can separate vertically with ease. Shows the quickness and elusiveness to slip the jam. Is sudden and explosive
with the ball in his hands. Will blow past defenders after the catch you can feel his speed.
Runs hard and shows some toughness. Can track
the ball over his shoulder. Shows the burst and
acceleration to be an effective kickoff returner.
Hardworking. Solid character. Has been very
durable.
Negatives: Thin-framed and high-hipped. Is
not strong or physical off the line and can be rerouted and hemmed by press coverage. Lets the
ball into his body. Waits on the ball instead of
highpointing it in the air. Too often doubleclutches the ball. Inconsistent catcher. Is too easily altered by traffic and struggles to make contested catches in a crowd. Was not asked to run
a lot of NFL-type routes in a spread offense and
could take time to learn how to diagnose coverages. Soft blocker.
Summary: Looked incredibly raw running
routes at the Senior Bowl and showed his learning curve could be steep. Has the pure speed and
burst to be a major-league threat every time he
touches the ball, but he could struggle to get
open and secure the ball to create with it. Likely
will not get out of the second round given
immense physical talent and work habits, but is
far from a finished product.

WR GARY

BANKS

(6-012, 196, 4.61) TROY

Notes: Married with a child. Also lettered in


baseball as a prep and was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the fifth round of the 2000 MLB
draft, spending three years in the organization as
a right fielder. Signed with Troy in 04 and was
converted from quarterback to wide receiver.
Appeared in 11 games and grabbed one pass for
six yards. Started all 11 games in 05, catching
25-293 (11.7-yard average) and two touchdowns
and rushing four times for four yards. Also completed a pass for four yards. Started all 13 games
in 06, snagging 68-603-8 (8.9) and completing
3-of-4 passes for 44 yards. Started 9-of-12
games in which he played in 07 and snagged
61-698-3 (11.4).
Positives: Nice size and athleticism. Reliable
catcher with good hand-eye coordination. Can
work through zones and find soft spots. Catches
well in a crowd and competes. Shows some run
strength after the catch and will fight for positive
yardage. Good work ethic and character. Is
smart and has good instincts for the position.
Negatives: Lacks vertical speed. Is not quick
or elusive after the catch and shows average lateral quickness. Shows some tightness in his
movement. Not a consistent hands catcher.
Overaged and will be a 26-year-old rookie.

Chose baseball first out of high school and could


be drawn back to the game.
Summary: Well-built converted quarterback
with a chance to compete for a possession-type
role.

WR JAMES

BANKS

(6-2, 202, 4.62) CARSON-NEWMAN (TENN.)

Notes: Will turn 25 years old in August.


Played quarterback as a prep and was named
Indianas Mr. Football as a high school senior.
Also lettered in basketball and track. Enrolled at
Tennessee and started 1-of-8 games in which he
played as a true freshman in 2002 at quarterback. Completed 17-of-31 pass attempts for 277
yards (54.8 percent) and two touchdowns. Transitioned to wide receiver and started 5-of-13
games in 03, but was suspended for the first half
of the Peach Bowl vs. Clemson for being late to
practice. Grabbed 42 receptions for 621 yards
(14.8-yard average) and six touchdowns, rushed
two times for 15 yards (7.5) and one touchdown
and returned six punts for 38 yards (6.3). Was
suspended during 04 spring practice for a verbal
altercation with a female student at a university
athletics center. In July, earned a suspension for
the first three games of the season for underage
consumption of alcohol and noise ordinance violations. That August, suffered a torn right meniscus during practice and redshirted the season.
Finally, in December, submitted a diluted urine
sample and failed a second drug test, resulting in
dismissal from the university. Enrolled at a Division III school, Franklin (Ind.) College, in the
winter of 05. Transferred to Carson-Newman in
the fall of 05 but did not play due to transfer
guidelines. Attempted to enroll at University of
Saint Francis (Indiana) but did not meet academic eligibility requirements. Returned to Carson
Newman in 06 on the conditions of a probationary agreement. In February 07, was arrested
and charged with DUI, speeding and refusal to
take a breathalyzer test, but permitted to join the
team. Started all 11 games in 07, catching 22370-6 (16.8), rushing 3-15 (5.0) and returning
punts 29-156-0 (5.4).
Positives: Tracks the ball well over his shoulder. Shows good quickness and body control.
Has the run vision, short burst and slippery
movement skills to sidestep defenders.
Negatives: Does not catch the ball cleanly.
Not a blazer. Has faced marginal competition.
Overaged. Has made too many questionable
decisions off the field.
Summary: Naturally athletic converted quarterback who stood out vs. lesser competition.
Needs to show that he has matured and is committed to the game to warrant a chance.

WR EARL

BENNETT (Junior)

(5-1112, 209, 4.51) VANDERBILT

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Started 7-of-11 games in which he played as a
true freshman in 2005, corralling 79 receptions
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for 876 yards (11.1-yard average) and nine
touchdowns. Also returned 12 punts for 76 yards
(6.3) and 19 kickoffs for 405 yards (21.3). Started all 12 games in 06, grabbing 82-1,146-6
(14.0) and returning punts 8-33 (4.1). Started all
12 games in 07, amassing 75-830-5 (11.1) as a
receiver and 5-72 (14.4) as a punt returner. Finished as the Southeastern Conferences career
leader in receptions (236) and is the only player
in conference history with at least 75 receptions
in multiple seasons.
Positives: Is well-defined with good musculature. Shows good short-area quickness. Has very
good hands and shows great concentration in
traffic. Makes some difficult, acrobatic catches.
Shows good body control and ball skills. Runs
strong can rip through arm tackles and sidestep tacklers. Adjusts well to poor throws and
tracks the ball well in the air. Outstanding production.
Negatives: Does not play fast or come off the
line with explosion. Struggles to beat the jam vs.
physical press coverage (see Auburn). Lacks
vertical playing speed. Gives up some break
points. Does not show great functional playing
speed and most of his catches are contested.
Could polish his route running and will need to
become a more crafty route runner.
Summary: Was used heavily on a lot of slants,
bubble screens and in the short-passing game
where he could use his run-after-the-catch ability to make plays. Has continually produced with
an average supporting cast and shows the
strength, quickness and run instincts to be effective after the catch. Would fit best in a West
Coast offense working underneath zones.

WR DAVONE

BESS (Junior)

WIDE RECEIVERS

(5-978, 194, 4.76) HAWAII

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep. Originally signed with Oregon
State, but was arrested weeks after his high
school graduation when stolen goods were
found in his car. Sentenced to 15 months in a
juvenile detention center. Enrolled at Hawaii in
2005 and started all 12 games at the Y spot,
amassing 89 receptions for 1,124 yards (12.6yard average) and 14 touchdowns and returning
two punts for three yards. Started all 14 games in
06, grabbing 96-1,220-15 (12.7) and returning
punts 5-83-0 (16.6). Started all 13 games in 07,
snaring 108-1,266-12 (11.7) and returning punts
18-175-0 (9.7).
Positives: Has a solid, well-defined frame and
good lower-body strength. Quick and agile.
Good balance in his feet. Runs with a low center
of gravity and shows good run strength after the
catch. Has returned punts.
Negatives: Does not play fast and struggles to
separate. Not strong or physical off the line of
scrimmage. Does not run a lot of NFL routes and
too often drifts. Double-catches and drops too
many catchable balls. Struggles to track the deep
ball. Production is inflated from playing in a
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

pass-oriented, spread offense. Used almost


exclusively on short dump-offs and out routes.
Character needs further evaluation spent 15
months in a juvenile detention center in 2003.
Summary: Has been extremely productive in a
pass-proficient offense and could contend for a
spot as a slot receiver. Could take some time to
adapt to an NFL offense and learn how to run a
full route tree. Poor 40-time will affect his draft
status.

WR DARRELL

BLACKMAN

(5-1012, 207, 4.55e) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Notes: Parade first-team All-American who


recorded 6,775 career rushing yards and 70
touchdowns as a prep. Also lettered in basketball. Committed to N.C. State in the spring of
2003 but enrolled at Hargrave Military Academy
(Va.) in the fall. Transferred to N.C. State in 04
as a running back and started 1-of-10 games in
which he played, missing the Wake Forest contest with an AC (shoulder) separation. Rushed
50-206-1 (4.1), caught nine passes for 90 yards
(10.0) and returned 12 punts for 214 yards and
one touchdown (17.8). Led the Atlantic Coast
Conference and ranked third nationally in puntreturn average. Started 5-of-12 games in a rotation with Toney Baker and Andre Brown in 05,
carrying 46-203-2 (4.4), catching 15-151-1 and
returning punts 21-122-0 (5.8) and kickoffs 20582-0 (29.1). Led the ACC and ranked sixth
nationally in kickoff-return average. In 06
spring practice, he converted to wide receiver
and started 8-of-11 games, missing time with a
knee sprain sustained against Southern Miss.
Rushed 12-47-0 (3.9), caught 27-358-2 (13.3),
returned punts 24-206-1 (8.6) and kickoffs
(28.9), leading the ACC in kickoff-return average. Started all 12 games in 07, snagging 41593-1 (14.5), and returning punts 26-322-0
(12.4) and kickoffs 31-697-1 (22.5)
Positives: Is thickly built and shows some
run-after-the-catch ability. Runs hard and shows
nice vision and toughness with the ball in his
hands. Is not intimidated crossing the middle
and works back to the ball. Good contact balance. Competes hard.
Negatives: Inconsistent catcher. Not a polished route runner and is not quick to beat the
jam. Takes short, choppy strides. Tries to be
overly creative and is not very fluid. Does not
have big-time speed to threaten vertically. Not a
great worker.
Summary: Raw converted running back who
showed some natural run instincts and balance
returning a kick in the Texas vs. the Nation allstar game. Could make it as a return specialist
and compete for time in the slot.

WR TODD

BLYTHE

(6-478, 214, 4.68) IOWA STATE

Notes: Father, Jim, was a catcher in the San


Francisco Giants farm system. Todd also lettered in basketball and track as a prep. Redshirt-

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ed in 2003. Started all 12 games in 04, snagging
39 passes for 833 yards (21.4-yard average) and
a school-record nine touchdowns. Also blocked
a punt vs. Kansas. Injured his left anterior cruciate ligament during spring practice, had surgery
in the offseason and returned to play five months
later in the fall. Started all 12 games in 05, grabbing 51-1,000-9 (19.6). Started nine games in
06 and missed three games late in the year with
a viral infection, catching 34-484-8 (14.2). Started all 12 games in 07 and grabbed 52-779-5
(15.0).
Positives: Excellent height. Has a long,
deceptive stride. Can highpoint the ball. Is tough
and competitive and uses his big frame well in a
crowd. Solid career production.
Negatives: Too thin and has a gangly build
with short arms. Does not play physical and gets
jammed too easily. Not quick or sudden. Has
build-up speed. Lets the ball into his body. Will
struggle to separate vs. man coverage in the
pros. Struggles to adjust to the low ball. Does
not come out of his breaks with any suddenness.
Limited after the catch. Average blocker.
Summary: A solid college football player
with no standout qualities for the pro game.

WR ADARIUS

BOWMAN

(6-278, 223, 4.76) OKLAHOMA STATE

Notes: Twice named Tennessees Class 2A


Mr. Football. Attended North Carolina in 2003
and started 2-of-12 games, grabbing 10-181-2
(18.1). Played the first six games of 04, registering 18-329-3 (18.3) before being suspended
and eventually dismissed from the team following an October arrest for marijuana possession,
although charges were eventually dropped.
Transferred to Oklahoma State in 05 and sat
out the season in compliance with NCAA transfer regulations. Started all 13 games in 06,
amassing 60-1,181-12 (19.7). Started all 11
games in which he played in 07, missing two
late-season contests vs. Baylor and Oklahoma
after sustaining a right knee injury on a tackle
by CB Aqib Talib in the second quarter vs.
Kansas. Finished with 67-1,006-8 (15.0). Did
not fully participate at the Combine because he
had elective Lasik surgery (to correct his eyesight) on Feb. 2.
Positives: Very good size and is a strong and
physical runner with the ball. Uses power to
fight off the jam. Shows the awareness to fit
between defenders and get open. Can catch on
contact and take a hit. Gets upfield fast after the
catch and will dip his shoulder and fight for
extra yardage. Very competitive. Works hard.
Strong blocker.
Negatives: Unrefined route runner too
tightly wound and leggy. Marginal flexibility
and bend. Struggles to adjust to the low ball. Not
sudden and struggles to separate. Most of his
catches are contested. Does not open up his
stride. Cradle catcher. Would expect to be more
physical blocking for as big as he is. Finds trou-

ble off the field. Poor 40-time at the Combine


will affect his draft status.
Summary: Can be a load to tackle once he
gets going and would be most effective on short
crossing routes in a West Coast offense where he
could take advantage of his run-after-the-catch
ability. However, his limited flexibility, speed
deficiencies and off-field trangressions could be
limiting factors.

WR GREG

BRACEY

(6-134, 201, 4.32) MISSOURI

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep, winning state 400-meter (48.20 seconds) and
4x400m relay titles, and captured a Junior
Olympics title in the 200m (21.59). As a member of the university track team, finished seventh
in the 100m (10.31) at the Big 12 Championships in 2005 and fifth (10.52) in 07. On the
gridiron, returned four kickoffs for 86 yards
(21.5-yard average) in 05 and grabbed three
passes for 79 yards (26.3) and one touchdown in
06. Appeared in 11 games in 07 and tallied 353-1 (17.7) receiving.
Positives: Has good size and world-class
speed.
Negatives: Very raw route runner. Not tough.
Lacks functional play speed. Limited return
experience.
Summary: Very raw height-weight-speed
prospect with marginal production. Struggled to
get on the field. Measurables could give him a
chance.

WR MARK

WIDE RECEIVERS

3/5/08

BRADFORD

(6-034, 211, 4.74) STANFORD

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Had a condition that led to him losing all of his
hair while at Stanford. Played basketball for the
Cardinal from 2003-04 but left the team to concentrate on football. On the gridiron, started the
final 8-of-11 games as a true freshman in 03
and caught 37 passes for 587 yards (15.9-yard
average), becoming the most prolific freshman
receiver in school history. Started at flanker in
all 11 games in 04, snagging 34-482 (14.2) and
one touchdown. Started 9-of-10 games in 05,
missing the UCLA contest with a right ankle
injury, and grabbed 37-609-6 (16.5). Started the
first two games in 06 and amassed 10-111-1
(11.1) before suffering a torn ligament in his
right foot and redshirting the season. Started 9of-12 games in 07 and caught 51-642-3 (12.6),
including the game-winning touchdown to stun
then-second-ranked USC. Named Cardinals
most valuable player.
Positives: Very good size with long arms and
very big, reliable hands. Good leaping ability.
Makes some difficult catches and adjusts well to
the poorly thrown ball. Shows good concentration amidst traffic. Has produced under pressure
(see USC game).
Negatives: Not explosive off the line. Has no
long speed and ran poorly at the Combine.
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Struggles to beat man coverage and almost
everything he catches is contested. Average body
control. Is not a sharp route runner. Average
blocker.
Summary: Has been a solid possession receiver when he is healthy, but has been dinged up a
lot throughout his career and durability will be a
hurdle that must be proven in the pros.

WIDE RECEIVERS

WIDE RECEIVERS

WR BRANDON

BREAZELL

(5-1158, 160, 4.47) UCLA

Notes: Also lettered in baseball, basketball,


and track as a prep. Started in 1-of-11 games in
which he played as a true freshman in 2004 at
flanker and registered two receptions for 15
yards (7.5-yard average). Appeared in all 12
games in 05 and snagged 24-297 (12.4) and
four touchdowns. Also returned two onside
kicks for 87 yards (43.5) and two touchdowns in
the Sun Bowl vs. Northwestern. Started 10-of13 games in 06 at flanker, grabbing 21-389-4
(18.5) and returning kickoffs 1-19-0. Suffered a
partially torn right posterior cruciate ligament
during spring drills. Did not require surgery, but
sat out the duration of the spring. Recovered to
start 10-of-13 games in 07, giving way to twoTE sets and catching 51-810-4 (15.9) and also
rushing 11 times for 47 yards (4.3). Suffered a
concussion and broken teeth in a collision vs.
Brigham Young. Suffered multiple rib contusions vs. Washington State and missed the second half.
Positives: Shows surprising toughness, can
take a hit and hold onto the ball. Works back to
the quarterback and will go up to get it. Shows
enough burst to separate. Shows some vision
and elusiveness on reverses. Sets up defensive
backs and is able to get a step on defenders.
Negatives: Is narrow-framed, paper-thin and
struggled to add weight. Does not come off the
line hard and looks hunchbacked and pigeontoed. Has zero run strength and gets pinballed
when he touches the ball. Weak blocker.
Summary: Has flashed some big-play ability
and could compete for a job outside the numbers, but his body is not made to withstand the
punishment delivered in the NFL and durability
could always be an issue.

WR KEITH

BROWN

McCoy. Nabbed 22-336-5 (15.3). Missed the


season opener vs. Western Carolina due to a suspension for an unspecified violation of team
rules.
Positives: Good length. Will extend and catch
the ball in stride and get up the field fast.
Negatives: Has a choppy stride and is too
tight in the hips. Lacks strength and struggles to
beat the jam. Not quick or sudden and lacks topend speed. Marginal work ethic. Too streaky and
moody. Thinks he is better than he is.
Summary: Best season came as a junior under
the previous coaching staff. Lost his starting job
due to a lack of discipline under Nick Saban and
might never be disciplined enough to handle the
pro game.

WR TRAVIS

BROWN

(6-218, 202, 4.68) NEW MEXICO

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Started 2-of-9 games as a true freshman
in 2004 and caught seven passes for 49 yards
(7.0-yard average). Started 10-of-11 games in
which he played in 05, giving way to a two-TE
set, snagging 35-245-2 (7.0) and rushing 20
times for 153 yards (7.7) and one touchdown.
Started 12-of-13 games in 06 and grabbed 64867-4 (13.5), but he did fumble three times in
the New Mexico Bowl against San Jose State.
Started all 13 games in 07, compiling 76-1,0316 (13.6).
Positives: Has good length with long arms
and big, soft hands. Good body control and concentration. Attacks the ball in the air. Has a
knack for finding soft spots in coverage. Plays
with good awareness and can dot the i on the
sideline. Is tough and very durable has not
missed any time to injuries. Gives effort as a
blocker.
Negatives: Very lean. Lacks strength. Is not a
blazer and does not show the quickness to shake
man coverage. Shows no burst or second gear.
Does little after the catch.
Summary: A better football player than athlete, Brown could develop into a solid possession receiver and factor in the short-passing
game. Bulked up and tested poorly at the Combine.

WR-RS DORIEN

BRYANT

(6-212, 203, 4.48) ALABAMA

(5-934, 174, 4.54) PURDUE

Notes: Started 2-of-10 games in which he


played as a true freshman in 2004, missing two
with injuries (concussion) and catching 17 passes for 295 yards (17.4-yard average) and a TD.
Started 10 games in 05, missing the Utah State
game with injury and catching 34-642-4 (18.9).
Started eight games in 06 and grabbed 44-5903 (13.4), sitting out vs. Tennessee and Florida
International after straining his right medial collateral ligament and re-injuring it vs. LSU. Also
carried the ball six times for 45 yards (7.5).
Started 1-of-12 games in which he played in 07,
backing up D.J. Hall and sophomore Mike

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Originally signed with Boston College in
2003 but instead attended Fork Union (Va.) Military Academy and caught 30 passes including
nine touchdowns. Signed with Purdue in 04 and
started 1-of-12 games, grabbing 38 passes for
584 yards (15.4-yard average) and three touchdowns and rushing seven times for 85 yards
(12.1) and one touchdown. Also returned six
kickoffs for 128 yards (21.3) and seven punts for
32 yards (4.6). Started 9-of-11 games in 05,
snagging 80-960-4 (12.0) and carrying 21-101-3
(4.8). Also returned kickoffs 21-500 (23.8) and

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one touchdown a 95-yard return against
Northwestern. In January 06, was arrested and
charged with disorderly conduct after breaking a
mans nose during a fight in which he stepped in
to help a friend. Pleaded guilty and was sentenced to work five days on a road crew, in addition to paying more than $500 in restitution to
the victim. Started 13-of-14 games in 06, snagging 88-1,068-6 (12.1), carrying 19-150-2 (7.9)
and returning kickoffs 25-490-0 (19.6). Started
12-of-13 games in 07, giving way to a two-TE
set vs. Iowa, and grabbing 87-936-8 (10.8) to
lead the Big Ten in receptions for a third consecutive season. Also rushed 14-85-0 (6.1),
returned punts 15-93-0 (6.2) and kickoffs 361,007-2 (28.0). Set school single-season records
for kickoff-return yards (1,007), surpassing Rod
Woodson, and all-purpose yards (2,121).
Positives: Is quick, agile and shows the ability to make the first defender miss. Shows good
field awareness to find open areas in coverage
and slither through zones. Good movement
skills. Shows good upfield burst and some creativity as a returner.
Negatives: Very, very undersized and is not
built to withstand contact. Not tough. Drops too
many balls and loses concentration in traffic. Is
not an elite athlete. Lacks run strength and goes
down too easy on contact. Is intimidated by traffic and does not like to catch in a crowd. Needs
to take better care of the football. Does not field
the ball cleanly as a returner and too often flags
the ball away from his body. Soft blocker. Marginal work habits. Thinks he is better than he is
and talks too much.
Summary: Has shown the ability to make
plays when he touches the ball and could bring
some value in the return game, but is too selective as a catcher and lacks the toughness to be
effective as a slot receiver. Impressive overall
production could blind a team into drafting him
too early. A small man who plays small in a big
mans game.

WR MICHAEL

BUMPUS

(5-1012, 190, 4.6 E) WASHINGTON STATE

Notes: Cousin, Larry, played football at Oregon State. Michael also lettered in basketball,
soccer and baseball as a prep. Started 7-of-11
games as a true freshman in 2004, catching 35
passes for 318 yards (9.1-yard average) and one
touchdown. Also returned 34 punts for 391 yards
(11.5) and two touchdowns. Started the first
seven games in 05, grabbing 30-357-2 (11.9)
and returning punts 17-232-1 (13.6), but he sat
out the rest of the season with a high ankle
sprain. Started 10-of-11 games in which he
played in 06, missing the Arizona State game
with an ankle injury. Finished with 60-558-1
(9.3) and returned punts 13-72-0 (5.5). Voted
team captain and started all 12 games in 07,
catching 70-789-4 (11.3) and returning punts 16106-0 (6.6).
Positives: Quick and agile. Is instinctive and

aware, adjusts well to the ball and makes sharp


cuts. Catches the ball in traffic. Shows some
quickness to elude tacklers when he touches the
ball and runs hard after the catch. Competitive
blocker. Very good career production.
Negatives: Undersized. Not fast or explosive.
Struggles to separate. Has no long burst. Gathers
to cut and is not a refined route runner.
Summary: Tough, unselfish, short-to-intermediate possession receiver with good enough
hands and zone awareness to battle for a job.
Size-speed deficiencies will limit his chances.

WR-KR KEENAN

BURTON

(6-012, 201, 4.49) KENTUCKY

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Started 5-of-12 games as a true freshman in 2003,
catching 20 passes for 221 yards (11.1-yard
average) and two touchdowns. In 04, suffered a
broken left wrist before the season opener but
still played in the first two games, catching 213-0 (6.5) and returning three kickoffs for 88
yards (29.3) before receiving a season-ending
medical redshirt. Started 2-of-7 games in which
he played in 05, grabbing 24-365-2 (15.2) and
returning 5-183 (36.6) on kickoffs. Suffered a
broken right foot in Week Two and missed four
games, but he returned to play out the season as
a reserve. Elected team captain and started all
13 games in 06, snagging 77-1,036-12 (13.5)
and returning kickoffs 31-765-1 (24.7). Started
all 12 games in which he played in 07, missing
the Mississippi State contest with a sprained
knee ligament suffered vs. Florida. Played
through a sprained ankle most of the season,
and was doubtful for the Music City Bowl with
swelling in the knee, yet managed to play. Tallied 66-741-9 (11.2) as a receiver and 28-679-0
(24.3) returning kickoffs on the season. Ranks
first in Southeastern Conference history in
career kickoff-return average (25.6 minimum
50 returns). Underwent arthroscopic surgery on
the knee following the bowl game and consequently declined an invitation to the Senior
Bowl.
Positives: Has very long arms and a solid
physique. Good leaping ability and natural
athleticism. Is effective in the short-passing
game and shows some creativity with the ball.
Will compete in a crowd. Has kickoff-return
ability.
Negatives: Cannot beat coverages. Lacks the
speed to separate and nearly everything he
catches is contested. Does not translate his
workout numbers to the field. Not a crisp route
runner. Shows little burst or gear change and is
late to come out of breaks. Struggles to separate.
Drops too many catchable balls. Cradle catcher.
Does not track the deep ball well or attack it in
the air. Marginal blocker. Durability is questionable.
Summary: Could compete for a job as a West
Coast receiver running a lot of underneath crossing routes. Could excel in a No. 3-type role on a
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team with some talented receivers that will draw
coverage away from him.

WR-KR ANDRE BUBBA

CALDWELL

WIDE RECEIVERS

WIDE RECEIVERS

(6-014, 204, 4.39) FLORIDA

Notes: Brother, Reche, was drafted in the


second round by the Chargers in 2002 (48th
overall) and now plays for the Redskins. Andre
was a Parade All-American. Saw action in all
13 games as a true freshman in 03, catching 19
passes for 174 yards (9.2-yard average) and
returning 22 kickoffs for 454 yards (20.6).
Started all 12 games in 04, plucking 43-689
(16.0) and three touchdowns and returning 11174 (15.8) on kickoffs. Also scored on a 61yard reverse vs. Arkansas. Started the first three
games of 05 before breaking his right leg in
the second half vs. Tennessee. Caught 10-148
(14.8) and returned kickoffs 4-124 (31.0). Also
rushed five times for 64 yards and one touchdown. Received a medical redshirt for the 05
season. Was present for an incident in which
guns purchased by then-Gators teammate Dee
Webb were fired into an adjacent apartment in
Feb. 06. Started 9-of-14 games in 06 at wide
receiver (Florida started several games with
multiple-TE sets), catching 57-577-6 (10.1)
and rushing 21-102-1 (4.9). Also threw a fiveyard TD pass in the Southeastern Conference
title game. Did not return kicks during the 06
season. Named a team captain and started all 11
games in which he played in 07, missing the
Tennessee and Mississippi contests with a
sprained right medial collateral ligament suffered in the third quarter vs. Troy. Grabbed 56761-7 (13.6) and rushed 12-58-1 (4.8). Finished
as the schools career leader in receptions
(185). Also participated in track in the spring of
07 and competed in the Southeastern Conference 100-meter championships (10.74 seconds).
Positives: Is well-defined with great size and
long arms. Very natural athlete. Has rare explosive speed. Shows the ability to create when he
touches the ball and can take flat passes the distance. Is effective on reverses and shows the topend speed to take the corner. Can separate with
speed and tracks the ball well downfield. Is
quick, sudden and shows an explosive top gear.
Gets in and out of routes cleanly. Good strength.
Competes for the ball in traffic. Is instinctive and
aware. Outstanding career production. Has NFL
pedigree.
Negatives: Is not a strong runner and does not
break a lot of tackles. Does not have great run
vision or run-after-the-catch ability. Inconsistent
hands catcher lets the ball into his body. Is
not very elusive once he gets moving in a
straight line and shows some tightness in his
hips. Has an angular build and could be more
susceptible to further injury at the high speeds
he reaches. Not a dynamic returner. Has been
slowed by injuries and was not used as a returner following the broken leg he suffered on a
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

kickoff return. Not a physical blocker.


Summary: Has shown explosive playmaking
ability, consistently separated at the Senior Bowl
and willed his way into the endzone for the
game-winning TD. Was surrounded by a strong
supporting cast as a senior in a spread offense
and very quietly became the schools all-time
leading catcher. Has the speed and big-play
capability and the versatility to contribute at
flanker, split end or as a return specialist. Has
starter potential if he can stay healthy.

WR PATRICK

CARTER

(6-258, 200, 4.44) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Brother, Tim, was drafted by the New


York Giants in the second round of the 2002
NFL draft. Also lettered in track, anchoring the
2003 Florida state championship 4x100-meter
relay team as a high school senior. Enrolled at
Georgia Tech in 04 as a reserve quarterback and
also returned 26 punts for 219 yards (8.4-yard
average). Sat out in 05 after transferring to
Louisville. Converted to wide receiver in 06
and started 4-of-9 games in which he played in
three-WR sets, missing four games with a
sprained left ankle and finishing with five receptions for 68 yards (13.6). Also returned 18 punts
for 107 yards (5.9-yard average) and completed
one pass for a 21-yard TD. Started 1-of-11
games in 07 and caught 26-396-5 (15.2).
Positives: Has good length with long arms
and very good straight-line speed. Has NFL
bloodlines.
Negatives: Raw route runner. Struggles to
sink his hips and come in and out of breaks.
Does not play physical and struggles to beat
press coverage. Suspect hands. Not a worker.
Summary: Raw height-weight-speed prospect
who struggled to crack the starting lineup. Pure
speed could give him a chance to develop.

WR JOE

COWAN

(6-312, 220, 4.6 E) UCLA

Notes: Father, Joe, played quarterback at


Washington from 1980-82. The younger Cowan
also was a prep standout in track in sprint and
hurdle events. Saw action in 11 games as a true
freshman in 2003 and caught seven passes for 31
yards (4.4-yard average) and one touchdown.
Appeared in all 12 games in 04, catching 13228-1 (17.5). Broke into the starting lineup in
05, and in 12 starts, he caught 35-469-3 (13.4).
Injured the posterior cruciate ligament in his
right knee in practice on Aug. 8, 2006 and redshirted. Started 10-of-12 games at split end in
07, grabbing 29-405-3 (14.0).
Positives: Good size. Can adjust to the ball.
Goes up for the ball in a crowd. Gives effort as a
blocker. Has a passion for the game. Works hard.
Negatives: Too tight and mechanical. Takes
long strides and lacks burst and acceleration.
Not physically strong. Gathers to cut. Very limited after the catch. Not a physical blocker.
Summary: Big overachiever with a chance to

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contribute as a fifth receiver in the red zone and
on special teams.

WR EARLY

DOUCET

(6-018, 209, 4.56) LSU

Notes: Earned Parade All-America and USA


Today All-America second-team honors as a
prep. Also lettered in basketball. Started 3-of-12
games as a true freshman in 2004 at flanker and
as part of a four-WR set against Troy. Totaled 18
receptions for 257 yards (14.3) and two touchdowns. In 05, he started 6-of-12 games in which
he played at the X spot (five) and Z spot
(one), splitting time with San Diego Chargers
07 first-round pick Craig Davis and nabbed 26389-5 (15.0). Missed the Peach Bowl with a
sprained right ankle. Started 5-of-13 games in
multiple-WR sets in 06 and tallied 59-772-8
(13.1), rushed 8-59-2 (7.4) and returned 12 kicks
for 202 yards (16.8). Started 9-of-10 games in
which he played in 07, missing four early-season games with a groin injury and snaring 57525-5 (9.2) to lead the team in receptions.
Positives: Has a solid build. Works back to the
ball and has very good hands. Shows the toughness to work across the middle. Competes hard
for the ball in a crowd. Shows the quickness and
sharp-cutting ability to sidestep a defender.
Plays smart with good field awareness and can
find openings in coverage. Shows some natural
run instincts when he touches the ball on reverses. Solid blocker. Very good worker. Good character.
Negatives: Has short arms and small hands.
Has struggled to add bulk and get stronger. Runs
tall and does not come in and out of breaks
quickly. Rounds out of his breaks. Lacks the topend speed to stretch the field vertically. Can be
tracked down from behind and is not overly elusive. Struggles to beat press-man coverage. Has
never been a No. 1 receiver in college despite
being given every chance to do so. Has been
slowed by injuries and has not been a model of
durability. Almost plays too nice.
Summary: Has the size, toughness and run
instincts to be a factor after the catch, but is at
his best when he is surrounded by a lot of receiving talent and not asked to be a game-changer.
Never distinguished himself as a returner.

WR HARRY

DOUGLAS

(5-1114, 176, 4.56) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Basketball standout, averaged 20.5


points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 3.0 steals as
a high school senior and also lettered in baseball.
Played 12 games as a true freshman in 2004,
grabbing five passes for 43 yards (8.6-yard average), rushing one time for a 65-yard touchdown
and returning nine kickoffs for 193 yards (21.4).
Started 5-of-12 games in 05, replacing an
injured Mario Urrutia and caught 27-457-2
(16.9), rushed 6-37 (6.2) and returned kickoffs
7-142 (20.3). Started all 13 games in 06 and
caught 70-1,265-6 (18.1) and rushed 7-49-0

(7.0). Started all 10 games in which he played in


07, missing two early-season contests with a
right ankle injury suffered vs. Syracuse, and
caught 71-1,159-7 (16.3) and returned kickoffs
1-16-0.
Positives: Tough and will battle for the ball.
Catches extremely well on the move. Tracks the
ball well over his shoulder. Runs across the middle and will sacrifice his body. Plays through
injuries. Is smart, has a passion for the game and
works hard to improve. Has punt-return ability.
Has been durable despite his lack of size.
Negatives: Not a crisp or polished route runner. Is very diminutive and slight-framed his
body may give way at the next level. Has tiny
hands and is not a clean catcher. Will have a hard
time dealing with the size and physicality of the
NFL. Struggles against tight man and press coverage and can be too easily knocked off his
routes on contact. Lacks strength and great body
control to adjust to the ball. Not explosive off the
line and does not play fast. Not elusive or creative after the catch.
Summary: Is rail-thin and does not have a
body built for the NFL. Could have to make his
mark on special teams, and he has the quickness
and agility to contribute as a returner. However,
he has never stood out in this area.

WR JOHN

DUNLAP

WIDE RECEIVERS

3/5/08

(6-034, 216, 4.51) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball, averaging


20.4 points, eight rebounds and four assists as a
high school senior. Started 3-of-11 games as a
true freshman in 2004 after junior Richard
Washington was suspended and totaled six
receptions for 116 yards (19.3-yard average). In
December 04, he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a pickup basketball game, underwent
surgery in January and rehabbed during spring
practice. Played 8-of-12 games in 05, collecting
4-41-0 (10.3) and underwent additional knee
surgery after the season. In 06, he started 10-of12 games and racked up 30-392-4 (13.1). Underwent postseason arthroscopic knee surgery and
missed parts of the offseason and fall workouts.
Recovered to start 10-of-11 games in which he
played in 07, missing the Virginia contest with
a sprained ankle suffered vs. East Carolina and
totaling 45-375-3 (8.3).
Positives: Thickly built with well-defined
musculature. Plays physical in the short-passing
game and has nice run strength after the catch.
Makes some tough catches in traffic. Caught the
game-winning TD vs. Boston College as a junior
and has produced in the clutch. Tough. Competitive blocker. Good work ethic.
Negatives: Not a polished route runner. Gears
down to cut and lacks suddenness. Slow off the
line. Not a blazer. Double-catches the ball and
drops too many easy passes. Has a speech
impediment and could have some communication difficulties.
Summary: Still raw as a receiver but has
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enough size, toughness and desire to compete
for a job and has the makeup to make it on special teams.

WR CLYDE

EDWARDS

WIDE RECEIVERS

(5-912, 179, 4.55e) GRAMBLING STATE

Notes: Started 7-of-11 games as a true freshman in 2004, grabbing 30 passes for 608 yards
(20.3-yard average) and four touchdowns. Started 7-of-12 games in 05 and caught 54-1,015-10
(18.8). In 06, started 10-of-11 games and
recorded 56-789-11 (14.1). Started all 12 games
in 07 and caught 57-804-12 (14.1), carried 10
times for 37 yards (3.7) and one touchdown,
returned four punts for 49 yards (12.3) and
returned 10 kickoffs for 211 yards (21.1). Finished as the schools career leader in receptions,
receiving yards and touchdowns.
Positives: Is quick off the line and shows the
ability to get down the field on open releases.
Shows nice body control to adjust to the ball.
Works hard. Very smart.
Negatives: Lacks size and strength to fend off
the jam and beat press coverage. Gets knocked
off step easily. Not a true blazer. Has marginal
run strength and goes down too easy.
Summary: Shows some big-play ability and
burst when he touches the ball, but size, strength
and speed deficiencies could be limiting. Ticket
will have to come as a returner.

WR DeCODY

FAGG

WIDE RECEIVERS

(6-114, 211, 4.66) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Floridas Class 2A Player of the Year


as a prep. Spent one semester at Hargrave Military Academy (Va.) in 2003, but his season was
cut short with a broken right leg, and he redshirted. Enrolled at Florida State in the spring of
04 but sustained a left knee injury that required
arthroscopic surgery. Recovered to play in six
games and record six receptions for 53 yards
(8.8-yard average). In 05, started 5-of-10
games in which he played as an injury replacement for Steelers 06 third-round pick Willie
Reid and when the team employed four-receiver sets, snagging 35-404 and one TD (11.5).
Suffered a grade II shoulder separation vs. Virginia but returned two games later at Clemson.
In 06, started 10-of-11 games in which he
played, missing two games with a high left
ankle sprain sustained vs. Boston College and
totaled 37-439-1 (11.9). Started 11-of-13 games
in 07, giving way to Greg Carr vs. Alabama
and North Carolina State, and grabbed 54-7585 (14.0).
Positives: Good length. Goes up for the ball
and can snag it out of the air and catch outside
his frame.
Negatives: Not a crisp route runner. Lacks
quickness, burst and agility and gets stuck on the
line. Inconsistent hands drops too many balls.
Plays at one speed and shows no gear change.
Limited run-after-the-catch skills. Marginal
blocker for his size. Long-levered and cannot
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

stay healthy.
Summary: Has good size and enough athleticism to warrant a look as a possession receiver.
Suffered a serious knee injury at the Combine
and has a history of injuries that could knock
him off many teams draft boards.

WR WILLIAM

FRANKLIN

(6-012, 214, 4.39) MISSOURI

Notes: Uncle, Darnay Scott, was a secondround pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in 1994,
playing wide receiver for the Bengals (1994-99,
2001) and Dallas Cowboys (2002). William also
lettered in basketball as a prep. Played all 11
games as a true freshman in 04 and caught six
passes for 174 yards (29.0-yard average) and
two touchdowns. Started 11-of-12 games in 05,
giving way to a two-TE set against Nebraska and
grabbing 40-413-2 (10.3). Started the first 11
games in 06 and totaled 48-829-6 (17.3) before
a torn right labrum ended his season. Changed
his jersey number to No. 2 in spring ball after
wearing No. 3 his first three years. The change
was made to honor the memory of Broncos RB
Damien Nash, a former Missouri teammate who
passed away suddenly in February of 07. Started all 14 games in 07 at the X spot and
snagged 49-709-4 (14.5).
Positives: Has excellent straight-line speed.
Very naturally athletic. Very smooth mover with
great body control and leaping ability. Shows the
top gear to get over the top and pull away from
cornerbacks. Flashes big-play ability when he
touches the ball and can create.
Negatives: Does not play to timed speed and
is not a crafty route runner. Not very tough. Can
be slowed by physical press coverage. Does not
attack the ball in the air and only shows flashes
of his immense natural ability. Goes down too
easy after the catch. Could struggle to diagnose
coverages and digest an NFL playbook. Does
not run a full route tree. Not an aggressive
blocker.
Summary: Will require some time and
patience to contribute, but could excel if his
responsibilities are kept simple. He has the
explosive vertical speed to stretch the field and
open the short-passing game. Outstanding Combine performance could elevate his draft status.

WR PIERRE

GARCON

(5-1178, 210, 4.46) MOUNT UNION

Notes: Name is pronounced gar-SONE.


Member of the 2006 Outdoor National Champion 4x100-meter relay team. Attended Norwich
University (Vermont) as a true freshman in 2004
and appeared in 10 games, grabbing 44 receptions for 1,017 yards (23.1-yard average) and 13
touchdowns. Transferred to Mount Union in 05
and started 10-of-12 games in which he played,
missing three contests with a broken bone in his
right leg. Caught 68-1,196-16 (17.6) and
returned 10 kickoffs for 241 yards (24.1) and
one TD. Started all 15 games in 06 and cor-

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ralled 67-1,212-17 (18.1), rushed seven times
for 106 yards (15.1) and two touchdowns and
returned kickoffs 5-151-0 (30.2). Started all 14
games in which he played in 07, missing the
Ohio Northern contest late in the season after reaggravating a wrist injury that originally was
hurt in 2006. Grabbed 67-955-14 (14.3), rushed
11-61-2 (5.5), and returned punts 7-51-0 (7.3)
and kickoffs 5-99-0 (19.8).
Positives: Very competitive. Has good
strength and functional playing speed. Catches
the ball well underneath in stride. Good leaping
ability. Nice contact balance. Will dip his shoulder and fight through tacklers. Plays tough and
takes pride in blocking. Will bang defenders in
the box and plays with confidence. Good career
production. Good worker.
Negatives: Shows some tightness in his movement and struggles to adjust to poorly thrown
balls. Not explosive off the line. Still learning
how to run routes and set up defenders. Not very
quick. Has faced marginal competition. Has
been dinged up a bit.
Summary: Stood out at the Division III level
and really competed against better competition
at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game, when
he returned a punt for 62 yards. Performed very
well at the Combine and his stock has ascended
in the postseason as he has received more exposure. Has the toughness to earn a job on special
teams and be groomed as a receiver.

WR RYAN

GRICE-MULLEN (Junior)

(5-10, 187, 4.56) HAWAII

Notes: Redshirted in 2004. Started the final


11-of-12 games in which he played in 05, snaring 85 receptions for 1,228 yards (14.4-yard
average) and 12 touchdowns and rushing two
times for 18 yards (9.0) and a touchdown. Started 9-of-10 games in which he played in 06, giving way to two-back sets and missing four midseason contests with a sprained ankle. Tallied
46-770-11 (16.7). Started all 13 games in 07,
amassing 106-1,372-12 (12.9).
Positives: Shows some quickness and elusiveness in space and could make the first
defender miss. Can contort his body in the air
and make some acrobatic grabs. Oustanding
production.
Negatives: Undersized and thinly framed. Not
a great athlete. Lacks top speed. Most of his
catches are contested. Does not run a full route
tree and will take some time to learn how to
diagnose coverages and uncover. Could struggle
to separate in the pros.
Summary: Would have benefited from another year in school but shows enough athleticism
to compete for a job.

WR D.J.

HALL

(6-178, 193, 4.61) ALABAMA

Notes: First name is Martinez. Missed two


games because of injury as a high school senior
and also lettered in basketball. Did not start the

opener in 2004 but started the final 10-of-11


games and finished with 17 catches for 186
yards (10.9-yard average) and a TD as a true
freshman. Led the team in receiving in 05,
when he grabbed 48-676-5 (14.1). Snagged 621,056-5 (17.0) in 06. Set an Alabama singleseason record for receiving yards. Also returned
seven kickoffs for 139 yards (19.9) and rushed
six times for 48 yards (8.0). Missed the season
opener in 06 vs. Hawaii for disciplinary reasons. Was suspended for the Cotton Bowl
because of academics. Started 11-of-13 games in
07, giving way to a two-TE set vs. Vanderbilt,
but was suspended for the first-half vs.
Louisiana-Monroe for a violation of team rules.
Finished with 67-1,005-6 (15.0), highlighted by
a school single-game record 13 receptions vs.
Tennessee. Became the first Alabama receiver to
record two 1,000-plus-yard seasons.
Positives: Good height and reach. Adjusts
well to the ball over his shoulder and catches the
ball well over his head. Shows some quickness
to create after the catch. Has produced in the
clutch. Very good career production. Willing
blocker.
Negatives: Too lanky and high cut. Too lean
with an underdeveloped body. Tight-hipped and
not overly elusive after the catch. Does not play
physical. Upright route runner. Does not drop
his hips or sell his routes hard. Struggles to beat
the jam. Shows some lapses in concentration. Is
undisciplined and not a great worker. Has been
dinged up a lot throughout his career and has a
body that could be vulnerable to injury.
Summary: Can run, catch and consistently
produced some big plays in the clutch but must
show that he is committed to the game to make
it. Tested poorly at the Combine.

WR JAMES

WIDE RECEIVERS

3/5/08

HARDY (Junior)

(6-538, 217, 4.54) INDIANA

Notes: Has a son. Redshirted in 2004, but


played basketball for the Hoosiers, starting 3-of23 games in which he played. Started 10-of-11
games in 05 and registered 61 receptions for
893 yards (14.6-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. In May 06, was arrested and charged
with domestic battery and interfering with the
reporting of a crime when he allegedly attacked
his girlfriend and infant son. When the police
arrived at the scene, the girlfriends shirt was
torn and she had marks on the side and back of
her neck. The charges were dropped after he participated in a pretrial diversion program. Started
10-of-10 games in which he played in 06, but
was suspended for two early-season games for
unspecified personal reasons apparently unrelated to the arrest. Finished with 51-722-10 (14.2),
including a 6-83-4 (13.8) performance against
Michigan State. Started all 13 games in 07 and
amassed 79-1,125-16 (14.2). Set a school record
with 36 career TDs.
Positives: Natural athlete with rare size. Good
hands and balance. Difficult to defend in the red
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zone. Very agile for his size. Makes some acrobatic, circus catches and can slide to the ground
to catch the low ball. Adjusts to the ball very
well above his head, plucking it out of the air.
Outstanding career production.
Negatives: Not a blazer. Shows too many concentration lapses. Not as physical off the line as
his size would suggest. Not a disciplined route
runner. Knows how gifted he is and takes advantage of it. Too inconsistent. Struggled to produce
against better competition (see Illinois and Wisconsin games). Cannot transition in and out of
his breaks quickly and accelerate away from
tight press coverage. Lacks concentration and
makes easy drops (see Oklahoma State). Is still
young and immature.
Summary: Has shown some signs of maturing, but still has a long way to go before he
grows up and learns to be a pro. Rare size could
create matchup problems, but has shown he can
be slowed against physical press coverage and
needs to become a more crafty route runner to
uncover vs. NFL-caliber competition.

WR JUSTIN

HARPER

(6-312, 213, 4.61) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Attended Hargrave Military Academy


(Va.) in 2003. Enrolled at Virginia Tech in January of 04 and played in 11 games in the fall,
catching five passes for 84 yards (16.8-yard
average) and one touchdown. Played all 13
games in 05 and snagged 16-295-1 (18.4).
Started 2-of-13 games in 06, grabbing 21-3241 (15.4). Was reportedly involved in an altercation with a man at a Blacksburg nightclub that
led to gunshots being fired into the apartment he
shared with Macho Harris. Started 8-of-14
games he played in 07 at split end (three) but
was overtaken by Josh Morgan and in multiple-receiver sets (five). Gave way to two-TE and
two-back sets to open the six games in which he
did not start. Snared 41-635-5 (15.5) and
returned two punts for 127 yards (63.5) and a
touchdown.
Positives: Very good body length and catching radius. Highpoints the ball and can pluck it
out of the air with his long arms and soft hands.
Comes in and out of breaks and runs fine routes.
Has sneaky speed. Good body control. Shields
defenders from the ball. Good ball skills and can
make difficult grabs. Good sideline awareness.
Has been very durable.
Negatives: Played in a rotation and was not
even a full-time starter for one year. Has a hoops
mentality on the field and does not like to be hit.
Not quick, elusive or strong after the catch and
breaks few tackles. Not a precise route runner
and gathers to cut. Not a blazer most of his
catches are contested. Not a physical blocker.
Can be demonstrative when he does not get the
ball and shows some selfishness.
Summary: Looked very average at the EastWest Shrine game and dropped more balls than
scouts would like to see a big, smooth-moving
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possession receiver drop.

WR-KR LAVELLE

HAWKINS

(5-11, 187, 4.58) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Parade All-American in high school.


Signed with LSU and enrolled there in the
spring of 2004 before transferring to City College of San Francisco. Played in seven games at
CCSF in 04, catching 23 passes for 525 yards
(22.8-yard average) and four touchdowns and
returning nine punts for 135 yards (15.0). Transferred to Cal in 05 and missed the season opener while fulfilling NCAA transfer requirements.
Started 3-of-9 games in 05, grabbing 18-171-1
(9.5) and returning kickoffs 7-129 (18.4). Suffered a midseason ankle sprain that continued to
nag him until the finale, but he played through
it. Started 5-of-13 games in 06, hauling in 46705-5 (15.3). Started 4-of-13 games in 07,
working primarily out of the slot in threereceiver sets. Caught 72-872-6 (12.1), including
9-192-2 vs. Oregon State, and returned kickoffs
42-922-1 (22.0).
Positives: Shows some savvy as a route runner to come free from coverage and is willing to
do the dirty work across the middle. Attacks the
ball in the air and can adjust to poorly thrown
balls. Knows how to work through coverages
and find open areas. Shows surprising contact
balance given lack of size. Solid production. Has
return ability.
Negatives: Not physical and lacks running
strength after the catch. Struggles to separate
against man coverage and does not have the top
gear to get vertical. Inconsistent hands catcher.
Tends to cradle and break stride to catch and
drops too many easy catches. Has too many concentration lapses. Is high-cut, runs upright and
gears down to cut. Has short arms. Is not a great
leaper. Not very creative in the open field.
Turned teams off in interviews and ran slower
than expected at the Combine.
Summary: Consistently showed up at the
Senior Bowl, making some clutch catches on a
big stage and showing the ability to gain a step
on defenders. Ran a lot of slants, drags and in
cuts in college and became a dependable underneath target. Could contribute in the slot and as
a kickoff returner.

WR MARCUS

HENRY

(6-358, 207, 4.57) KANSAS

Notes: Nicknamed Mute. Also lettered in


basketball and track as a prep. Appeared in 10
games as a true freshman in 2004, snagging
eight receptions for 85 yards (10.6-yard average). Started 6-of-11 games in which he played
in 05 and grabbed 17-183-0 (10.8). In 06, started 10-of-12 games, finishing with 25-316-3
(12.6). Started all 13 games in 07 and caught
54-1,014-10 (18.8), highlighted by an 8-199-3
performance vs. Oklahoma State.
Positives: Has very good height and reach
with long arms. Deceptive long stride. Field fast

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and carries his pads well. Smooth, fluid and
quicker than he appears making quick cuts.
Shows the toughness to work across the middle.
Uses his size well and makes some great adjustments to the ball. Catches the ball in his hands
and outside his frame. Works hard and has been
very durable.
Negatives: Takes long strides and is not a
burner. Lacks great separation quickness and
suddenness. Shows little wiggle after the catch.
Lacks strength and is not a physical blocker.
Summary: A late bloomer who was effective
running a lot of crossing and drag routes and has
the size and dependability to make a roster and
contribute.

WR MARIO

HINES (Junior)

(5-1012, 175, 4.5 E) ROBERT MORRIS

Notes: Attended Robert Morris out of high


school but transferred to the University of Akron
in 2004 and caught 24 passes for 373 yards
(15.5-yard average) and two TDs. Sat out the 05
season after transferring back to Robert Morris.
Started at flanker all 11 games in 06, grabbing
23-341-4 (14.8), returning 20 kickoffs for 490
yards (24.5) and 28 punts for 203 yards (7.3) and
a TD. Also rushed 3-21-1. Started all nine games
in which he played in 07, missing the Duquesne
game with a shoulder injury suffered in the previous game against Central Connecticut.
Grabbed 24-456-4 while returning kickoffs 22441-0 (20.0) and punts 14-277 (16.3)
Positives: Shows some quickness and run
instincts. Shows enough speed to get downfield
and catches the ball well over his shoulder.
Takes the ball out of the air.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition. Is
very thin-framed and struggles to catch on contact. Very arrogant and thinks he is better than he
is.
Summary: Quick, darting, undersized player
who will have to make it in the return game.

WR BRUCE

HOCKER

(6-3, 206, 4.55e) DUQUESNE

Notes: Engaged to be married. Sat out as a


partial qualifier in 2003. Saw immediate action
in 2004, starting 6-of-10 games and amassing 35
receptions for 577 yards and seven touchdowns
(16.5-yard average). Limited to three starts in
05 by a broken collarbone suffered against
Fordham. Returned too early from the injury and
broke collarbone again. Finished with 12-280-1
(23.3). Returned in 06 and started all 10 games,
racking up 61-1,070-16 (17.5). Played with a
separated right shoulder for most of his junior
season. Started 9-of-10 games in which he
played in 07 and compiled 54-668-9 (12.4).
Positives: Good size with long arms and good
leaping ability. Shows some quickness to elude
defenders and run away from defensive backs.
Competes hard.
Negatives: Narrow-framed. Has faced marginal competition. Average route runner. Not

quick in and out of breaks. Not very strong or


physical after the catch. Runs before he catches
the ball and makes some easy drops. Disinterested blocker. Has missed some time with injuries
and his durability needs to be evaluated.
Summary: Has excelled vs. lesser competition, but has few notable qualities to translate to
the pro game.

WR PAUL

HUBBARD

(6-234, 221, 4.56) WISCONSIN

Notes: Competed exclusively in track as a


prep and was a two-time Colorado Class 4A
long-jump and triple-jump champion and also
won long-jump and triple-jump titles at the USA
Track and Field Junior Olympic Championships
as a high school senior. As a member of the Wisconsin track and field team, he won the indoor
long jump, outdoor long jump and 400-meter
relay titles at the Big Ten Championships in
2004. Also captured a triple jump title and
placed second in the long jump at the 04 U.S.
Junior National Championships. On the gridiron, walked on and redshirted as a true freshman in 03. Appeared in 14 games over the next
two seasons, recording one catch for four yards.
Started all 13 games in 06, grabbing 38-627
(16.5-yard average) and five touchdowns. Started all eight games in which he played in 07,
missing five games with a sprained right medial
collateral ligament sustained vs. UNLV. Finished with 14-305-0 (21.8).
Positives: Very good size with long arms.
Solid route runner. Shows the toughness to catch
in traffic and compete for the ball. Works back to
the ball. Shows good boundary awareness. Will
climb the ladder to catch. Shows some strength
after the catch. Stood out vs. Michigan. Is smart
and learned multiple positions. Solid downfield
blocker. Solid character.
Negatives: Has of history of inconsistent
hands. Is not a blazer or quick off the line of
scrimmage. Shows little burst in and out of
breaks and is not natural sinking his hips.
Missed considerable time with a knee injury as a
senior. Very average career production.
Summary: Had a solid week at the East-West
Shrine game and is too big and too athletic for a
team not to think they could fix his hands. Size,
smarts and versatility will add to his value.

WR JOSH

HYMAN

(5-1138, 194, 4.56) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Earned All-America honors as a sprinter in high school. Attended Fork Union (Va.)
Military Academy in 2002. Enrolled at Virginia
Tech and redshirted in 03. Started 12-of-13
games in 04 and caught 27 passes for 491 yards
(18.2-yard average) and five touchdowns. Started
1-of-11 games in which he played in 05 and
totaled 13-197-0 (15.2). Was arrested in June 06
on a misdemeanor credit card fraud charge. Exgirlfriend accused him of making a purchase on
her card without permission. Charges have since
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been dropped due to a lack of evidence. Sat out
spring practice after undergoing right rotator cuff
surgery. Played in 12-of-13 games in 06, but
was suspended for the Boston College contest
after being arrested on a DUI. Totaled 16-111-0
(6.9) on the season. In April 07, pleaded no-contest to the DUI charge and was sentenced to 350
hours of community service and had his license
suspended for one year. Started 3-of-14 games in
07, serving primarily as a reserve at flanker
behind Eddie Royal. Caught 26-343-1 (13.2).
Will be a 25-year-old rookie.
Postitives: Is athletic. Nice instincts and
awareness to uncover. Shows some elusiveness
to shake defenders in the open field.
Negatives: Takes short, choppy strides. Lacks
great speed and is not used a lot vertically.
Struggles to separate. Does not use his hands
well to fight off the jam. Overaged. Questionable character.
Summary: Small slot receiver who could warrant a chance to compete in a camp. Age and
character will be limiting factors.

WR DeSEAN

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

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JACKSON (Junior)

(5-934, 169, 4.39) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Brother, Byron, was a member of the


Kansas City Chiefs developmental squad (199293). Parade All-American. U.S. Army All-American Bowl MVP after he gained 145 yards receiving and one touchdown and threw a 45-yard TD
pass. A top baseball prospect as a prep. Started
10-of-11 games in which he played in 2005,
catching 38 balls for 601 yards (15.8-yard average) and seven touchdowns and returning one
punt for 49 yards and a score. Sidelined vs.
Washington State with a shoulder injury. Started
all 13 games in 06, receiving 59-1,060-9 (18.0)
and returning 25-455-4 (18.2) on punts with a
long of 95 yards. Earned first-team All-America
status as a punt returner. Started 10-of-12 games
in which he played in 07, giving way to a twoTE set vs. Oregon and sitting out the first quarter
of the Armed Forces Bowl vs. Air Force for a
violation of team rules. Missed the Stanford contest with a right thigh contusion suffered in the
first half vs. Washington was forced to leave
the game and sit out practice the bye week leading up to the Stanford game. Also suffered a
sprained left thumb in the season opener vs. Tennessee thumb popped out of the socket, but
was popped back in. Forced to wear a cast over
the thumb during practice and heavy tape during
games, resulting in uncharacteristic dropped
passes. Corralled 65-762-6 (11.7) and returned
punts 12-129-1 (10.8). Holds the Pacific-10
record for career punt-return touchdowns (six).
Positives: Is explosive and can flat-out fly.
Eats cushion quickly and can get on top of
defensive backs. Makes some acrobatic, diving
grabs and easily tracks the deep ball. Shows
great vision, follows his blockers and can make
sharp cuts through traffic and find daylight.
Knows how to set up blocks. Can reverse field
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DeSean Jackson

l CALIFORNIA

and pull away from the pack. Possesses big-play


ability.
Negatives: Is short, narrow-framed and has
struggled to add weight. Very vulnerable to
injury and will struggle to stay healthy. Gets
jammed too easily at the line of scrimmage and
is not quick into his routes. Marginal run
strength. Limited kickoff-return experience.
Very average blocker. Long-term durability is a
serious concern given the high speeds he travels
at and his lack of bulk. Immature. Not a great
worker. Difficult to manage. Talks too much and
thinks he is better than he is.
Summary: Should be able to make an immediate impact as a punt returner, develop further
as a kickoff returner and bring electric speed to
the outside. However, he is a very small man
playing a big mans game and could struggle
with the physicality of NFL defensive backs as a
receiver. Durability, toughness, maturity and
work ethic are all issues that need to be evaluated closely and could affect his draft status.

WR-RS DEXTER

JACKSON

(5-912, 182, 4.38) APPALACHIAN STATE

Notes: Saw action in 11 games as a true freshman in 2004, making 17 catches for 239 yards
(14.1-yard average) and one touchdown and
returning 22 kickoffs for 394 yards (17.9). In 05,
started 7-of-14 games in which he played in threeand four-WR sets, racking up 30-449-5 (15.0) and

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returning kickoffs 11-189 (17.2) and punts 29-245
(8.4). Started 9-of-15 games in 06, catching 33470-3 (14.2) and returning punts 30-369 with two
touchdowns (12.3). Started 8-of-15 games in 07
and grabbed 30-688-8 (22.9), highlighted by 392-2 in an upset victory at Michigan. Also rushed
five times for 74 yards (14.8) and one touchdown
and returned punts 34-223-0 (6.6).
Positives: Can flat-out fly and has shown
playmaking ability when he touches the ball.
Has the quickness to escape the jam, uses his
hands well at the line and works to uncover.
Shows great agility and the toughness to take a
hit. Very agile after the catch. Has stepped up vs.
big-time competition (see Michigan). Good
character. Vocal leader. Works hard. Shows
exciting return potential can cut on a dime
and leave defenders in their tracks.
Negatives: Very small and has very small
hands. Inconsistent catcher who too often lets
the ball into his body and does not catch it cleanly. Does not track the ball well over his shoulder.
Soft blocker.
Summary: Had a very strong postseason, performing well in the East-West Shrine game and
the Senior Bowl before clocking faster than any
other receiver at the Combine. Did not get a lot
of opportunities in a spread-option offense, but
is clearly very physically gifted and has shown
he can compete with the big boys. Could make
an immediate impact as a punt returner.

WR DARNELL

JENKINS

(5-914, 187, 4.56) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Scored five special-teams return


touchdowns as a high school senior. Originally
signed with Miami (Fla.) in 2002 but did not
enroll until the following year. Played in all 13
games as a true freshman in 03, catching three
passes for 20 yards (6.7-yard average) and a
touchdown and returning 10 kickoffs for 202
yards (20.2). Started 2-of-12 games in 04 and
caught 21-230-1 (11.0) and returned kickoffs
14-191 (13.6). Played in 10-of-12 games in 05,
missing two contests with an ankle injury.
Caught 25-242-2 (9.7) and returned kickoffs 8175 (21.9) and punts 8-64-0 (8.0). Started the
first three games of 06 and caught 13-183
(14.1) and returned kickoffs 2-42 (21.0) before
suffering a torn right posterior collateral ligament that required surgery and resulted in a
medical redshirt year. Graduated in December
2006. Did not participate in 07 spring practice
due to unspecified reasons. Started 8-of-12
games in the fall in a rotation at both flanker
(three) and split end (five), grabbing 31-619-2
(20.0), rushing 11-53-0 (4.8) and returning punts
5-95-0 (19.0) and kickoffs 8-136-0 (17.0), earning team MVP honors.
Positives: Fights off the line. Shows some
toughness to work inside of coverage, come
across the middle and catch in traffic. Works
through zones and can catch on contact and take
a hit. Adjusts to poorly thrown balls. Shows

some shake and bake after the catch and weaves


through traffic. Shows enough speed to get a
step on defenders. Has return experience.
Negatives: Lacks play strength and vertical
speed. Has average hands and has struggled to
shake a case of the drops. Too undisciplined.
Average work habits. Trouble seems to follow
him.
Summary: Showed improved focus and concentration as a senior and still competed despite
playing with an average quarterback on a bad
team. Could be a tough slot receiver if he can
stay focused.

WR-RS JAYMAR

JOHNSON

(5-1118, 177, 4.53) JACKSON STATE

Notes: Married. Was a partial qualifier in


2003. Saw limited action in three games as a true
freshman in 2004, returning four kicks for 63
yards (15.8-yard average). Started six games in
05 before tearing his left medial collateral ligament, catching 22 passes for 285 yards (13.0)
and one touchdown, rushing twice for 44 yards
(22.0) and one touchdown and returning kickoffs
2-52-0 (26.0). Started all 11 games in 06 and
caught 30-527-2 (17.6), carried 4-63-0 (15.8)
and returned kickoffs 8-116-0 (14.5) and punts
19-241-1 (12.7). Started all 12 games in 07,
catching 36-613-7 (17.0), rushing 6-15-0 (2.5)
and returning punts 24-231-1 (9.6) and kickoffs
9-152-0 (16.9).
Positives: Is well-sculpted and very strong
pound for pound. Tough. Makes good adjustments to the ball and can track it over his shoulder. Good sideline awareness. Adjusts well to the
low ball and can make some diving grabs. Is
quick off the line. Shows some quickness to
make the first defender miss and shows good
competitive speed to pull away when he gets a
lane. Has return ability.
Negatives: Not an elite athlete. Catches with
his body. Gathers to cut and breaks stride to
catch. Could do a better job finding soft spots in
zone coverage. Not overly elusive to create. Has
not faced great competition. Marginal blocker.
Summary: Raw, undersized, small-school
product with some untapped potential. Was a
versatile playmaker at the Division I-AA level
and performed well vs. better competition at the
Texas vs. the Nation all-star game.

WR STEVE

JOHNSON

(6-178, 210, 4.59) KENTUCKY

Notes: Is married with a daughter. His high


school did not offer varsity football until his
junior year. Also lettered in basketball as a prep.
Attended Chabot College (Calif.) as a true freshman in 2003 and caught 32 passes for 607 yards
(19.0-yard average) and six touchdowns. In 04,
caught 73-1,060-12 (14.5). Transferred to Kentucky in 06 and played in all 13 games, corralling 12-159-1 (13.2). Started 8-of-13 games
in 07, giving way to two-back sets and amassing 60-1,041-13 (17.4) receiving, including the
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game-winning TD receptions vs. Louisville and
then-No. 1 LSU. Led the Southeastern Conference in receiving yards and touchdowns. Earned
Wildcats most improved offensive player honors, as voted on by the coaching staff.
Positives: Has good size, long arms and big
hands. Can adjust to the ball in the air and track
it in the air. Has upside.
Negatives: Raw route runner. Not quick in
and out of breaks. Only played two years of high
school football and does not have great instincts
for the position. Is tight in the upper body and
runs too upright. Not very tough or physical.
Summary: Matured as a senior, when he
emerged as Andre Woodsons go-to guy as a
senior and consistently produced in the clutch.
Has some upside to continue developing but will
require considerable molding.

WR ROBERT

JORDAN

(5-1058, 162, 4.62) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Cousin is former Cal RB Marshawn


Lynch, the Buffalo Bills 2007 first-round pick.
Missed three games with a broken left ankle in
his senior year of high school. Planned to redshirt in 2004 but ended up starting five of the
final eight games due to injuries throughout the
receiver corps, catching 29 passes for 332 yards
(11.4) and two touchdowns. Caught 7-116-1 in
his first start vs. Arizona State. Missed Washington State game in 05 due to a right collarbone
injury and the Sacramento State opener because
of a team suspension. Did start 8-of-10 games,
hauling in 34-455-4 (14.2). Suspension resulted
from an arrest on Feb. 27, 2005 in which Jordan
and teammate Bernard Hicks were stopped by
university police for not wearing seat belts.
Hicks was arrested for possessing several bags
of marijuana, while Jordan was arrested for possession of a concealed weapon reportedly not
a gun but an ornamental dagger that he wore
around his neck. Started all 12 games in 06,
catching 43-511-4 (11.9). Started 11-of-13
games in 07, grabbing 65-762-6 (11.7).
Positives: Shows polish as a route runner and
gets in and out of his breaks. Field fast. Shows
good awareness working through zones and
knows how to get open. Willingly enters traffic
and keeps concentration. Gives effort to block.
Negatives: Too thin with very marginal
strength. Not a blazer. Not strong after the catch
and does not break tacklers. Has struggled to
pack on weight. Limited upside. Is fragile and
durability is a pressing concern. Is rough around
the edges.
Summary: A solid college football player who
simply lacks the traits needed to play and stay
healthy at the pro level.

WR MALCOLM

two touchdowns. Started 13-of-14 games in 06


and caught 62-993-10 (16.0). Suffered a torn
meniscus in the Fiesta Bowl, underwent offseason knee surgery and sat out 07 spring practice.
Returned to start 13-of-14 games in 07, but suffered a hip pointer vs. Oklahoma State and was
limited to one series in the Fiesta Bowl vs. West
Virginia by a deep thigh bruise. Finished with
49-821-9 (16.8).
Positives: Creates mismatches with tremendous size and wingspan. Goes up to attack the
ball in the air and has strong hands. Eats ground
with his long strides. Moves very naturally.
Works back to the ball and competes hard for it.
Good body control. Can adjust to poorly thrown
balls behind him and haul in the ball without
breaking stride. Adjusts well to the low ball.
Outstanding hands and catching radius. Good
feet. Will cross the middle, take a hit and hold
onto it. Shows good strength after the catch to
shake the first defender. Willing and strong
blocker.
Negatives: Too streaky and inconsistent
started junior season strong but could not sustain

KELLY (Junior)

JAMES D. SMITH

WIDE RECEIVERS

WIDE RECEIVERS

54

(6-334, 224, 4.55e) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Started 7-of-11 games in which he


played as a true freshman in 2005, catching 33
passes for 471 yards (14.3-yard average) and
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Malcolm Kelly

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WR LANCE

WIDE RECEIVERS

success. Not a burner. Struggles to escape coverage when its rolled his way. Shows some tightness in his lower body and is not quick getting in
and out of his breaks. Not as strong after the
catch as his size would indicate. Can be frustrated when he does not get the ball. Needs to learn
what it means to work. Could take some time to
absorb an NFL playbook. Showed up out of
shape and overweight at the Combine and could
be difficult to manage.
Summary: Blessed with tremendous size,
hand strength and body control, Kelly drew a lot
of double-teams as a junior and helped open up
the short-passing game. However, he must learn
what it means to work and become more of a
team player to reach his potential and perform at
a consistently high level. A high-risk/highreward pick with bust potential.

LEGGETT

Notes: High school coach, Mike Barber, was


a tight end for the Houston Oilers, L.A. Rams
and Denver Broncos (1976-85). As a member of
the university track team, Leggett placed first in
the 400-meter hurdles (51.83 seconds) at the
2006 Atlantic Coast Conference Outdoor Championships and was second in the 110-meter hurdles (13.79). In 07, he placed second and set a
school record at the ACC Indoor Championships
in the 60-meter hurdles (7.79). On the gridiron,
he started 8-of-11 games as a true freshman in
2004 and caught 17 passes for 349 yards (20.5yard average) and four touchdowns. Started 1of-11 games in which he played in 05, missing
the Virginia contest with a toe injury, and
snagged 15-204-2 (13.6). Started 10-of-13
games in 06, grabbing 38-584-4 (15.4). Started
7-of-9 games in which he played in 07 in a rotation at both flanker and split end. Missed the
Georgia Tech and Florida State contests with a
foot injury. Finished with 15-238-1 (15.9).
Positives: Has good height and very long
arms. Has deceptive playing speed and can lull
defensive backs to sleep with his long strides.
Can win some jump balls.
Negatives: Drops as many as he catches. Too
high-cut and leggy and shows no suddenness.
Marginal burst out of his breaks. Does not create
after the catch. Very frail. Not tough or physical
and will struggle to beat the jam in the pros.
Summary: A long-limbed, pencil-thin, vertical, outside-the-numbers leaper who could compete for a job in a camp as an X receiver.

WR MARIO

MANNINGHAM (Junior)

(5-1134, 181, 4.62) MICHIGAN

Notes: Cousin, Bubba Paris, was an AllAmerica offensive lineman for the Wolverines
and a second-round pick of the San Francisco
49ers in 1982, playing nine NFL seasons. Mario
also lettered in basketball as a prep. Named
Parade All-America in football. Started 3-of-12
games as a true freshman in 2005 and caught 27

LES BENTLEY

(6-3, 189, 4.44) MIAMI (FLA.)

Mario Manningham

l MICHIGAN

balls for 433 yards (16.0-yard average) and six


touchdowns. Started 9-of-10 games in which he
played in 06, missing three midseason contests
after undergoing surgery to repair a partially
torn right meniscus and medial collateral ligament. Finished with 38-703-9 (18.5). Had
another knee surgery in January 2007. On April
25, was arrested following a traffic stop after
police found a couple 500-milligram tablets of
Vicodin in Manninghams pockets and a couple
more in a suitcase in the trunk of the car plus a
small amount of marijuana in his friends possession. Was cleared of possible felony charge
for possession of a controlled substance after
Michigans team physician verified that Manningham had surgery on Jan. 8 and had been
prescribed Vicodin. Started all 12 games in
which he played in 07, but was suspended for
the Eastern Michigan contest for a violation of
team rules. Corralled 72-1,174-12 (16.3) and
also rushed 19 times for 119 yards (6.3).
Recorded the second most productive receiving
season in school history (behind only Braylon
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Edwards, 1,330 in 04). Named as one of three
finalists for the Biletnikoff Award as the nations
top receiver.
Positives: Has sleek movement skills and can
swim off the jam, make himself skinny and work
around defenders. Is quick into his routes and
can separate with sharp cuts and double moves.
Shows the competitive speed to gain a step on
defenders, tracks the ball extremely well and
adjusts to its flight. Has great body control,
makes some very acrobatic adjustments in the
air and highpoints the ball. Is quick-footed and
elusive and flashes the ability to turn a short
slant into a huge gain. Wants the ball in crunch
time and makes plays when it counts (see Michigan State).
Negatives: Too thinly built and almost
appears knock-kneed. Shows marginal run
strength and does not run through contact. Takes
some choppy steps out of his breaks. Rounds his
cuts on slants and leaves break points open for
defensive backs. Shows some untimely lapses in
concentration (see Ohio State). Not a great practice player and will talk too much. Can grate on
a coach and will need to be monitored. Moody
and immature. Durability could be an issue
given his lack of bulk.
Summary: Needs to get a little bigger and
stronger to fend off injuries, and his lack of
timed speed at the Combine could turn off some
teams seeking blazers. However, he is field fast
and when he sets his mind to a task, he has
shown he can make an impact. Could be difficult
to coach like too many of the good receivers in
the game today, but has potential to become a
No. 1 receiver if he stays focused.

WR SHAHEER

McBRIDE

WIDE RECEIVERS

(6-112, 205, 4.67) DELAWARE STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003 to concentrate on academics.
Started all 11 games in 04 and registered 46
receptions for 849 yards and seven touchdowns
(18.5-yard average). Started all 11 games in 05
and caught 50-720-6 (14.4). Started all 11 games
in 06, snaring 55-852-11 (15.5) and rushing
seven times for 58 yards (8.4). Started all 12
games in 07, catching 50-586-9 and returning
punts 17-122-0.
Positives: Very competitive. Fights off the
line and battles for the ball. Plays faster than
timed speed. Good length to extend and catch
outside his frame. Makes some athletic adjustments to the ball. Very good career production.
Negatives: Not a polished route runner
rounds out of his breaks and is not sudden or
quick. Lacks separation speed. Has faced marginal competition. Does not create with the
ball. Could add bulk and get stronger. Average
blocker.
Summary: A better football player than athlete, McBride has been challenged by inconsistency under center and still produced at a high
level. Has the toughness and competitiveness
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

to fight for a job.

WR MARCUS

MONK

(6-414, 222, 4.63) ARKANSAS

Notes: Valedictorian of his high school class.


Also lettered in basketball. Played all 11 games
in 2004 and caught 37 passes for 569 yards
(15.4-yard average) and six touchdowns. Was
supposed to play on the Arkansas basketball
team as well, but he was held out due to a shoulder injury from football. Started all 11 games in
05 and grabbed 35-476-7 (13.6). Started all 14
games in 06 and hauled in 50-962-11 (19.2).
Suffered a right knee injury during an Aug. 9,
2007 practice when hit from behind by S
Michael Grant. Initially diagnosed with a bone
bruise, and an MRI the next day was negative.
During an Aug. 13 surgery, doctors discovered
the extent of the injury a small tear in the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus and an articular cartilage fracture of the lateral femoral
condyle. Underwent a second surgical procedure
on Aug. 28 to remove two pieces of cartilage
beneath the right meniscus that had moved and
were causing pain. Rehabbed and missed the
first half of the 07 season, but managed to start
5-of-7 games in which he played. Finished with
16-144-3 (9.0).
Positives: Excellent height and body length to
post up smaller defensive backs. Can catch in a
crowd. Good boundary awareness. Great character.
Negatives: High-cut. Long strider. Not sudden or quick. Comes off the ball lethargically
and can be jammed. Not strong or physical.
Does not pop out of breaks or play with any
explosion. Limited after the catch. Could not run
away from anyone and moved like an 80-yearold man with arthritis during his senior season.
Jammed clear out of bounds against South Carolina. Questionable mental toughness. Knee
injury needs to be re-evaluated.
Summary: Showed some rust at the Combine
but caught the ball consistently after playing
very little as a senior. Could have benefited from
taking a medical redshirt and another year in
school where he would have a chance to prove
himself. Could battle for a job as an outside-thenumbers possession receiver.

WR EVAN

MOORE

(6-6, 233, 4.79) STANFORD

Notes: Earned a degree in political science


and is working toward a masters in sociology.
Also lettered in basketball and averaged 24.3
points, 12.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists as a high
school senior. Played basketball for the Cardinal
from 2003-04, but left to concentrate on football.
On the gridiron, saw action in six games as a true
freshman in 03 but missed the final three contests with shoulder and ankle injuries suffered
against Arizona State. Totaled eight catches for
150 yards (18.8-yard average) and one touchdown. Started all 11 games in 04 and caught 39-

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616-6 (15.8). Started the first game of the 05
season and registered 3-66-1 (22.0) before suffering a season-ending dislocated right hip and
redshirting. Then missed the first four games of
the 06 season with a stress fracture in his right
foot but returned to start 5-of-8 games and grab
14-242-3 (17.3). Started 9-of-12 games in 07,
catching 39-481-1 (12.3).
Positives: Has rare size with long arms. Good
athlete for his size. Good hand-eye coordination.
Can pluck the ball out of the air and catch poorly thrown balls. Wins jump balls with size. Can
be physical as a blocker. Very smart and understands the game. Good worker.
Negatives: Seems to be injured every year and
has never been able to stay healthy. Takes time to
get started and is not quick or sudden. Struggles
to separate.
Summary: May warrant looks as an H-back or
move tight end but could not stay healthy at
receiver and his long limbs could be more susceptible to injury in tight quarters.

WR KENNETH

MOORE

(5-1034, 195, 4.51) WAKE FOREST

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Limited to five


games in 04 by a sprained right foot and
grabbed one pass for six yards. In 05, started 1of-7 games in which he played and corralled 8127 (15.9) and one touchdown. Started 12-of-14
games at wide receiver (seven) and running back
(five) as an injury replacement for Micah
Andrews and Kevin Harris in 06. Caught 32314-1 (9.8), rushed 105 times for 507 yards (4.8)
and two touchdowns and returned 10 punts for
130 yards (13.0). Started all 13 games in 07 at
receiver (12) and quarterback (one, vs. Virginia).
Snared 98-1,011-5 (10.3), twice tying the school
record for most receptions in a game (15 vs.
Boston College and Navy). Set the Atlantic
Coast Conference single-season record for
receptions, surpassing ex-North Carolina State
star and current Rams WR Torry Holt (88). Also
rushed 44-316-3 (7.2) and returned punts 34355-1 (10.4) and kickoffs 10-172-0 (17.2).
Positives: Great versatility. Unselfish team
player who will play any role he can. Very good
hands. Works back to the ball and shows good
concentration through traffic. Good agility and
balance. Shows competitive speed and runs as
fast as he needs to. Shows good strength and run
instincts after the catch. Has a good feel for coverage and will keep working to get open when
plays break down. Very good worker. Has puntreturn ability. Great character.
Negatives: Has small hands. Lacks top-end
speed to stretch the field vertically and is not a
burner. Could do a better job of selling routes.
Not a physical blocker.
Summary: Toughness, competitiveness and
versatility will earn him a roster spot. May not
contribute right away but will make a mark on
special teams and find a way to earn increasingly bigger roles because of his consistency and

ability to handle pressure. Could become a solid


contributor in the short-passing game.

WR JOSH

MORGAN

(6-014, 219, 4.54) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Attended Fork Union (Va.) Military Academy in
2003. Enrolled at Virginia Tech in 04 and
underwent surgery in the preseason for a broken
fifth metatarsal in his left foot. Started 1-of-12
games in 04, catching 15 passes for 346 yards
(23.1-yard average) and three touchdowns.
Started 1-of-13 games in 05, snagging 28-4714 (16.8) and also returned two kickoffs for 45
yards (22.5) and one punt for 17 yards. Started
11-of-12 games in which he played in 06, but
was suspended for the Georgia Tech contest
after being arrested and charged with disorderly
conduct and obstruction of justice. The police
report says he punched at the drivers side window of a truck, then opened the drivers door as
if he were going to assault the driver. He refused
to submit to arrest and was subdued by a blast of
pepper spray. Returned from suspension and finished the season with 33-448-4 (13.6) receiving.
Started 11-of-14 games in 07 at split end and
caught 46-552-5 (12.0), leading the team in
receptions. Also returned punts 1-12-0 and kickoffs 16-276-0 (17.2).
Positives: Looks the part. Well-built, natural
athlete with good muscularity. Comes off the
ball with a powerful stride. Very tough. Catches
in traffic. Runs with strength and power and can
power through secured tackles. Shows good
leaping ability and can adjust to the ball in the
air. Has return ability.
Negatives: Lacks discipline. Does not work
back to the ball and gives up break points. Does
not show great top-end speed or acceleration.
Loafs on the backside and can be demonstrative
when he does not get the ball. Has inconsistent
hands. Too selfish shows bad body language
on the field. Lacks concentration. Only blocks
when he wants to.
Summary: Clearly physically gifted with
strong run skills, Morgans opportunities have
been limited due to playing in a rotation in one
of the best receiving corps in the country and he
clearly has been frustrated. Could fit well in a
West Coast offense.

WR JORDY

NELSON

(6-258, 217, 4.54) KANSAS STATE

Notes: Played quarterback as a prep. Also lettered in basketball and track, winning the
Kansas Class 3A state titles in the 100 meters,
200 meters, 400 meters and long jump and setting the Class 3A division records in the 100
meters (10.63) and 200 meters (21.64). Aspires
to be a coach. Redshirted in 2003 and did not
play in 04 as a defensive back. Converted to
wide receiver and started all 11 games in 05,
grabbing 45 receptions for 669 yards and eight
touchdowns (14.9-yard average). Started 9-of-13
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games in 06 and caught 39-547-1 (14.0) despite
being limited by a left posterior collateral ligament strain. Started all 12 games in 07, snaring
122-1,606-11 and returning five punts for 264
yards (52.8) and two touchdowns. Ranked second nationally in receptions and yards. Set
school records for most receptions in a game (15
vs. Missouri State and Fresno State) and most
receiving yards in a game (214 vs. Iowa State).
Positives: Excellent size, thickly built. Natural hands catcher. Great competitive speed. Creates positive yardage after the catch. Good run
balance, strength and instincts. Shows great
toughness by working across the field. Very productive in converting third downs. Shows good
cut-back ability and short-area burst. Elusive in
the open field and can turn a short catch into a
long run. Tracks the ball well over his shoulder.
Shows a lot of upside as a punt returner and produced when he got the chance scored on two
of his five return opportunities as a senior. Outstanding production. Has enough speed to make
defenders respect him down the field. Very solid
character. Very durable and plays through pain.
Negatives: Not a blazer and lacks explosive
speed. Does not run a full route tree and has not
shown he can get in and out of routes and set up
defenders the way he will need to do in the pros.
Not a great blocker.
Summary: Consistently produced big plays in
the clutch and emerged as a legitimate receiving
threat as a senior. Has the size, dependable
hands and fearlessness to be very good on third
downs and showed the potential to contribute as
a returner. Strong Senior Bowl and Combine
performances should only add to his value.

WR BRIAN

PAYSINGER

WIDE RECEIVERS

(6-158, 206, 4.59) OREGON

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in 8-of11 games in 04 and grabbed two passes for 27
yards (13.5-yard average). Suffered a torn right
medial collateral ligament in an August 05
practice but recovered in time to appear in the
final 9-of-12 games. Finished with 6-70 (11.7)
receiving and rushed two times for 13 yards
(6.5) and one touchdown. Started 12-of-13
games in 06 and caught 34-451 (13.3) and three
touchdowns and carried 7-77-0 (11.0). Started 3of-4 games in which he played in 07, snagging
9-165-2 (18.3) and rushing 3-25-0 (8.3), but suffered a very serious right knee injury when his
cleats got caught in the grass while he was getting tackled during a practice leading up to the
Stanford contest. Tore the ACL, MCL and PCL
ligaments in the knee and underwent seasonending surgery.
Positives: Has good length and looks the part.
Shows enough speed and quickness. Plays physical and has the toughness to hold on to the ball
after contact.
Negatives: Has had multiple knee injuries and
faces a career-threatening type of situation. Not
quick or sudden. Lacks polish as a route runner.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Does not show great awareness. Jump catcher


who likes to cradle the ball. Inconsistent hands.
Limited after the catch. Soft blocker.
Summary: Worked mostly in the short-passing game as a possession-type receiver other
than an 85-yard TD catch vs. Michigan on a
blown coverage. Serious knee injury could be
difficult to overcome.

WR MAURICE

PURIFY

(6-318, 224, 4.62) NEBRASKA

Notes: Is the uncle of former Colorado RB


Bobby Purify. Enrolled at City College of San
Francisco in 2004-05, compiling 92 receptions
for 1,762 yards and 30 touchdowns (19.2-yard
average) over the two seasons and earned offensive MVP honors in the California junior-college championship game in defeat. Also participated in basketball. Transferred to Nebraska in
06 and started 5-of-14 games three at the
X spot and two at the Y spot catching 34630-7 (18.5). Was arrested on May 5, 2007 and
charged with two counts of assault, failure to
comply, resisting arrest and trespassing. Was
accused of hitting a bouncer who had denied
him entrance to a bar several times and then
striking the mans girlfriend. When police
arrived on the scene, Purify resisted being handcuffed and it took four officers to subdue him.
On June 8, was stopped for speeding and then
arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Blood-alcohol content was tested at 0.138
percent. Was suspended from the team indefinitely. In July, he agreed to plead no contest as
part of a deal with prosecutors that gave him one
year of probation and fines totaling $1,250 and
ordered him not to enter a bar or any other business that primarily sells alcohol. Was reinstated
to the team but was suspended for the season
opener vs. Nevada and ordered to attend drug
and alcohol counseling as a result of the offseason DUI. Started 4-of-11 games in which he
played at the Z (three) spot and in a threereceiver set (one). Caught 57-814-9 (14.2) and
twice tied a school single-game record for TD
receptions (three vs. Kansas and Colorado).
Positives: Has a big, strong frame. Physical at
the line. Knows how to use his body as a shield
on underneath routes. Attacks the ball in the air
and can win battles there. Nice body control to
adjust to the ball. Can make difficult one-handed grabs and fight in the red zone. Good competitor.
Negatives: Lacks speed and is not fluid, agile
or explosive. Very average quickness to escape
the jam. Not a clean route runner. Average run
balance does not pick up his feet or open up
his stride and trips up too easily and is too
heavy-footed. Too inconsistent catching the ball.
Most of his catches are contested. Shows little
burst after the catch and goes down more easily
than a man his size should. Braces to get hit. Distinterested blocker. Too straight-linish and struggles to change direction and redirect. Weight has

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fluctuated. Character is a concern.
Summary: Inconsistent catcher who finished
the season very strong with a more competent
quarterback. His terrific size could create some
mismatch problems if he can stay out of trouble.

WR PAUL

RAYMOND

(5-834, 180, 4.49) BROWN

Notes: Born in Haiti but moved to the United


States when he was one year old. Only player in
his high school to receive, return, pass and rush
for a touchdown. On the gridiron, started 4-of-6
games in which he played as a true freshman in
2004 and registered 16 receptions for 178 yards
(11.1). Did not play in 05 due to depth at the
position. Returned to start all 10 games in 06,
catching 45-654 and four touchdowns (14.5),
rushing three times for 17 yards (3.7) and returning five punts for 177 yards (35.4). Started all 10
games in 07, grabbing 55-978-4 (17.8) and
returning kickoffs 18-482-0 (26.8). As a member
of the Brown track team, captured the indoor 60meter crown (6.85 seconds) in 06 and repeated
as champion in 07 (6.85). Also placed fifth in
the 07 Ivy League outdoor 100 meters (10.75).
Positives: Is fairly quick and agile and shows
enough body control to adjust to the ball in the
air. Shows some elusiveness after the catch. Is
very smart and hardworking.
Negatives: Too short. Very undersized and has
been nicked up. Long-term durability is a question with little muscle mass. Struggles to beat
the jam and get off the line cleanly. Very weak
blocker. Not overly fast.
Summary: Small and plays small. Is used
heavily on a lot of bubble screens and short
hitches and could compete for a job in a camp.

WR-RS DARIUS

REYNAUD (Junior)

(5-914, 201, 4.52) WEST VIRGINIA

Notes: Also lettered in track in high school.


Redshirted as a partial qualifier in 04. Started
all 12 games in 05, catching 30 passes for 297
yards (9.9-yard average) and five touchdowns
and carrying nine times for 86 yards (9.6-yard
average) and one touchdown. Also returned four
kickoffs for 102 yards (25.5-yard average).
Started all 13 games in 06 and snagged 39-5202 (13.3) and rushed 14-221-0 (15.8). Also
returned kickoffs 30-813 yards (27.1) and one
touchdown. Started 11-of-13 games in 07, giving way to freshman WR Brandon Hogan vs.
East Carolina and South Florida after suffering a
shoulder injury vs. Maryland. Caught 64-733-12
(11.5), rushed 11-103-1 (9.4) and returned kickoffs 8-211-0 (26.4).
Positives: Flashes some explosive big-play
ability and shows some elusiveness with the ball.
Good run balance. Shows a nice burst in the
open field and can sidestep tacklers and spin out
of packs. Nice strength to beat the jam and get
off the line. Catches the ball easily. Tough, willing blocker. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Short. Not a polished route runner,

does not set up defensive backs and too often


just runs to spots. Not instinctive or aware to
uncover through zones and has a lot to learn
about route running.
Summary: Has the quickness, run balance and
elusiveness to be a threat whenever he touches
the ball, but is still very raw as a receiver and
will have to make it as a returner. Developmental slot receiver.

WR JASON

RIVERS

(6-114, 200, 4.62) HAWAII

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school and was the Hawaii state 100-meter
and 200-meter champion as a senior. Started 5of-11 games as a true freshman in 2003, catching
44 balls for 512 yards (11.6-yard average) and
five touchdowns. Started all 13 games in 04,
snagging 80-973-7 (12.2). Declared academically ineligible in the spring of 05 and attended a
community college. Suffered a serious right
ankle injury in the offseason and had surgery on
it. Did not play during the 05 season because of
academics. Returned to Hawaii in 06, starting
12-of-14 games and grabbing 72-1,178-10
(16.4). Set a NCAA bowl record with a 308-yard
receiving performance vs. Arizona State in the
Hawaii Bowl. Started 11-of-12 games in which
he played in 07, missing the Idaho contest with
back spasms. Caught 92-1,174-13 (12.8).
Positives: Good height and arm length. Will
go up to get the ball and has a wide catching
radius. Adjusts well to the ball in flight and can
track it over his shoulder. Nice body control.
Plays with a chip on his shoulder. Can be physical. Has a passion for the game and competes
hard on the field. Competitive blocker.
Negatives: Inconsistent catcher. Lets the ball
into his body. Very lean and lacks strength to
fend off the jam. Not a refined route runner.
Does not make sharp cuts. Lacks speed to separate and takes time to accelerate. Only plays at
one speed. Can loaf on the backside when he
knows the ball is not coming his way.
Summary: Production is overinflated from
playing in a spread offense and hands are inconsistent, as he showed at the East-West Shrine
game. Speed deficiency and slender frame could
continue to limit his ability to get off the line
cleanly, and he could take some time to adjust to
the pro game.

WR-RS KEVIN

ROBINSON

(5-1112, 202, 4.74) UTAH STATE

Notes: Older brother, John Rushing, played


football at Washington State and currently
serves as the CB coach at Utah State. Kevin also
lettered in basketball and track as a prep, reaching the California state finals in the triple jump.
Redshirted in 2003. Started 3-of-11 games in
2004 and registered 44 receptions for 602 yards
(13.7-yard average) and three touchdowns. Also
returned 17 punts for 382 yards (22.5) and two
TDs. Returned 13 kickoffs for 326 yards (25.1)
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and one touchdown. Started 9-of-11 games in
05, giving way to two-TE sets, and caught 43661-8 (15.4) and rushed 13 times for 91 yards
(7.0) and one touchdown. Returned punts 27270-1 (10.0) and kickoffs 23-498-0 (21.7). In
06, started 9-of-12 games, catching 36-582-5
(16.2), carrying 6-35-0 (5.8) and returning punts
14-74-0 (5.3) and kickoffs 31-641-0 (20.7).
Started 11-of-12 games in 07, catching 55-6405 (11.6), running 16-39-0 (2.4) and returning
punts 20-378-1 and kickoffs 43-1,260-3. Holds
the NCAA career record for all-purpose yards
per play (16.2).
Positives: Good run instincts and vision to
find seams. Is nifty and quick enough to set up
moves. Competes for the ball in a crowd and
responds under pressure. Very good awareness.
Fields the ball cleanly, gets upfield and helps set
up his blockers. Good game-day competitor.
Negatives: Average athlete. Not quicktwitched or explosive. Shows little burst to get
up the seam and does not play fast. Production is
inflated from facing marginal competition.
Lacks run strength. Not overly elusive after the
catch. Gets hemmed too easily at the line. Lacks
long speed and acceleration. Could struggle to
absorb a playbook.
Summary: Clutch game-day performer who
put his return skills on display at the East-West
Shrine game, when he scored his ninth career
TD return. Lacks ideal speed, burst and functional playing strength to be effective as a
receiver and will have to make it as a return specialist. Added 14 pounds and ran poorly at the
Combine.

WR-RS EDDIE

ROYAL

WIDE RECEIVERS

(5-958, 184, 4.45) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Started 11-of-13 games as a true freshman in 2004, snagging a team-leading 28 passes
for 470 yards (16.8-yard average) and three
touchdowns and rushing once for 11 yards and a
score. Also returned 12 kickoffs for 346 yards
(28.8) and 25 punts for 274 yards (11.0). Missed
the spring of 05 with compartment syndrome, a
condition in which the muscle becomes too big
for the sheath surrounding it, in his left leg and
had surgery to correct the problem. Returned to
start all 13 games at flanker in 05 and grabbed
27-315-2 (11.7) and rushed 10-79-1 (7.9). Also
returned kickoffs 14-283 (20.9) and punts 32263 (8.2). Started 9-of-13 games in 06, grabbing 31-497-3 (16.0) and rushing 5-24-0 (4.8).
Returned kickoffs 19-431 (22.7) and punts 23304 (13.2) and one touchdown. Started 11-of-13
games at flanker in 07, as he racked up 33-4964 (15.0) receiving and 8-116 (14.5) rushing. He
also returned kickoffs 14-316-0 (22.6) and punts
31-455-2 (14.7).
Positives: Incredibly strong pound for pound
and physically tough. Will catch in traffic and
work inside. Very good short-area quickness and
burst. Makes sharp cuts and possesses home-run
speed. Plays smart. Has a good feel for zones
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

and keeps working to get open. Adjusts well to


the ball. Solid character. Very good weight-room
worker. Has a passion for the game.
Negatives: Has average size and does not
have the frame to get bigger. Not a strong runner
and does not power through tackles or like to be
hit. Can get stuck on the line when he is not
given a free release. Drops his share of catchable
balls. Not a strong blocker. Questionable mental
toughness. Tweaked his hamstring at the Senior
Bowl and tends to pull himself out of competition if he is not 100 percent and everything is not
perfect. Has a bit of a track mentality.
Summary: Was underutilized amidst a talented group of a receivers in college, but has bigplay capabilities as a slot receiver and as a return
specialist. Will tease scouts with his speed,
strength and return ability, but may never be
great as a receiver.

WR LORNE

SAM

(6-238, 220, 4.62) UTEP

Notes: Brother, P.K, played for the New England Patriots (2004) and Miami Dolphins (2006).
Lorne played quarterback as a prep. Attended
Florida State in 2002 and redshirted with a separated right shoulder. Appeared in 24 games over
the next two seasons and recorded 10 receptions
for 173 yards (17.3-yard average). In April of
05, fractured his left foot and underwent
surgery. Later that spring, transferred to UTEP
and sat out the season in compliance with NCAA
transfer regulations. Started 1-of-8 games in
which he played in 06 and also saw time at quarterback, but missed four contests after spraining
his knee against Tulane. Caught 12-172 (14.3),
rushed 16 times for 91 yards (5.7) and one touchdown and completed 1-of-6 pass attempts (16.7
percent) for 41 yards and one touchdown.
Showed his versatility in 07 as he totaled 60372-3 rushing, 42-589-1 receiving and 12-19144-2 and two interceptions passing while starting in all 10 games in which he played. Missed
two games with a high ankle sprain.
Positives: Big-framed and naturally strong
with good athleticism. Is agile for his size. Can
win jump balls with size and leaping ability.
Good competitor. Very smart and understands
the game.
Negatives: Needs to learn how to drive off the
ball, come out of breaks and sell routes. Lacks
blazing speed to separate deep and breakaway
speed after the catch. Not an overly strong runner. Has small hands and is not a natural hands
catcher. Has a history of injuries.
Summary: Very big, versatile athlete who
could compete for a job as a possession-type
receiver. Developmental project.

WR ARMAN

SHIELDS

(6-034, 194, 4.42) RICHMOND

Notes: Also lettered in track and field in high


school. Redshirted in 2003. Started 3-of-10
games in which he played in 04, catching 30

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passes for 320 yards (10.7-yard average) and
four touchdowns. Started all 13 games in 05,
grabbing 62-842-4 (13.6). Started all 10 games
in which he played in 06 and caught 54-643-5
(11.9). Missed the season finale due to injury.
Caught 12-107-0 in the 07 season opener
against Vanderbilt, then tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee the next week
against Northeastern and missed most of that
game and all of the next four contests. Attempted to come back against Rhode Island on Oct.
20, but lasted only one series. Finished the season with 14-125-0 (8.9) receiving.
Positives: Shows some big-play explosiveness and toughness across the middle. Can run
after the catch and is very quick. Shows some
savvy as a route runner setting up defensive
backs with nods. Adjusts well to the ball. Competitive blocker.
Negatives: Slight-framed. Was dinged up as a
senior and did not get to show a lot. Tends to cradle catch instead of attacking the ball and gives
up break points. Has build-up speed. Could do a
better job tracking the deep ball. Limited creativity after the catch
Summary: Needs to do a better job of using
his size and body length and is not a natural
hands catcher, but is field fast and performed
incredibly well in Combine testing, finishing at
the top of the WR group in most agility drills.

WR JEROME

SIMPSON

(6-134, 199, 4.45) COASTAL CAROLINA

Notes: Lettered in basketball and track and


was a member of the 4x400-meter relay team
that won the North Carolina Class 2A title. Started all 11 games as a true freshman in 2004 and
caught 26-419-8 (16.1). In 05, he started 6-of11 games, missing time with turf toe, and caught
33-527-9 (16.0). Also competed in track and
field for the Chanticleers, earning All-Big South
honors in the high jump (6 feet 834 inches) and
long jump (23-312). Started 10-of-12 games in
06 and caught 61-1,077-16 (17.7). Was reprimanded by the conference for allegedly yelling
obscenities at the Charleston Southern sideline
at the end of the teams November contest. Started all 11 games in 07, totaling 41-697-11 (17.0)
receiving and 2-22 (11.0) rushing.
Positives: Has huge hands, incredibly long
arms and makes difficult one-handed grabs look
like clockwork. Skies for the ball and can take it
out of the air high above defenders. Excellent
concentration and ball skills. Outstanding leaping ability. Can catch anything in his vicinity
and makes some unbelievable grabs. Great body
control and in-air adjustments. Plays with intensity and a lot of confidence. Catches on contact.
Very competitive. Played big in big games and
vs. better competition (see Appalachian State,
Furman). Great work ethic. Timed better than
expected in the 40 at the Combine.
Negatives: Very slender, lacks muscle mass
and needs to get stronger. Has faced marginal

competition. Runs lazy routes and rounds off too


many breaks. Is not a burner. Appears disinterested in blocking.
Summary: May have made a mint at the EastWest Shrine game, when he put his exceptional
hands and ball skills on display and caught the
attention of evaluators. Made some uncharacteristic easy drops at the Combine but was a clutch
producer on the field and should be able to contribute readily in a complementary, possessiontype role.

WR MARCUS

SMITH

(6-138, 221, 4.56) NEW MEXICO

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Redshirted and converted from tailback to wide
receiver in 2003. Played in all 12 games in 04,
catching three passes for 33 yards (11.0-yard
average), rushing 14 times for 146 yards (10.3)
and two touchdowns and returning 15 kicks for
232 yards (15.5). As a member of the university
track and field team in 2005, competed in the
100 meters (10.91 seconds) and 200 (21.76).
Appeared in all 11 games in 05 and caught 6-56
(9.3), carried 23-124-2 (5.4) and returned kickoffs 7-133 (19.0). Started 12-of-13 games in 06,
catching 53-859-9 (16.2), rushing 7-22-0 (3.1)
and returning kickoffs 18-335 (18.6). Started all
13 games in 07, catching 91-1,125-4, rushing
10-34-1 and returning kickoffs 28-653 (23.3).
Positives: Can accelerate out of his breaks and
keep defenders off balance. Catches the ball in
stride. Physical blocker. Has shown toughness
coming down the field as a gunner. Has kickoffreturn ability. Good worker. Has overcome a lot
of adversity in his life and the game is important
to him. Plays with intensity.
Negatives: Was not tested in the Mountain
West Conference. Very raw. Still learning how to
run routes. Does not know how to set up defensive backs. Lacks elite top-end speed. Lets too
many balls into his body and drops some easy
catches. Does not respond well to hard coaching.
Summary: Strong, physical and well-built,
Smith should be able to contribute readily on
special teams and be groomed as a receiver.
Growth would best be fostered by a supportive,
encouraging position coach.

WR TAJ

SMITH (Junior)

(6-038, 187, 4.63) SYRACUSE

Notes: Will turn 25 years old in September.


Also lettered in basketball as a prep. Enrolled at
Bakersfield (Calif.) College from 2004-05 and
totaled 95 receptions for 1,670 yards (17.6-yard
average) and 16 touchdowns. Transferred to
Syracuse in 06 and appeared in the first four
games, grabbing 12-227-3 (18.9), before suffering a season-ending collarbone fracture. Started
all 12 games in 07 and caught 44-822-5 (18.7).
Positives: Has OK size. Shows some athleticism to adjust to the ball and gets upfield fast
after the catch.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Average
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WR LUKE

SWAN

WIDE RECEIVERS

(5-1134, 192, 4.62) WISCONSIN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball, baseball


and track as a prep. Walked on and redshirted in
2003. Appeared in nine games over the next two
seasons but did not record a reception. Started
10-of-13 games in 06 and caught 35 passes for
595 yards (17.0-yard average) and five touchdowns. Earned a scholarship. Started six games
in 07 before tearing his hamstring against Illinois on Oct. 6. He finished with 25-451-2 (18.0)
receiving and 5-37 (7.4) returning punts.
Positives: Plays with a good tempo and great
energy. Gives great effort. Smart and instinctive.
Finds openings in coverage. Goes up for the ball
and adjusts well to it. Good quickness and
change of direction. Plays faster than he times.
Great work ethic.
Negatives: Shows no suddenness or strength
and cannot get off press coverage. Gets re-routed to the sideline and struggles to work through
the front line. Picks up no yardage after the
catch. Not physical. Does not have the frame to
get much bigger. Marginal effectiveness as a
blocker. Marginal return skills.
Summary: Good college football player with
marginal traits for the pro game. A classic overachiever with enough toughness to compete for
a job as a inside-the-numbers, third-down possession receiver.

WR LIMAS

SWEED

WIDE RECEIVERS

(6-378, 215, 4.54) TEXAS

Notes: Scored on 31-of-72 career receptions


(43 percent) in high school. Also lettered in basketball and track, finishing fourth in the Texas
Class 4A state meet in the 110-meter hurdles
(14.10 seconds). Redshirted in 2003. Started 7of-11 games in which he played at split end in
04, posting 23 receptions for 253 yards (11.4).
Started all 13 games in 05 and totaled 36-545
(15.1) and five touchdowns. In 06, started all 13
games and grabbed 46-801-12 (17.4). Broke
Detroit Lions WR Roy Williams single-season
school record by catching a TD pass in seven
straight games. Wore a protective cast in fall 07
camp to protect a sprained left wrist. After starting the first six games, re-injured that wrist
against Iowa State and only finished with 19306-3 receiving.
Positives: Plays faster than timed speed. Very
naturally athletic. Possesses excellent size, very
good vertical speed and the leaping ability to
take the ball away from defenders. Can catch in
a crowd and is strong-handed. Good body control. Can pluck the ball in a crowd and make
acrobatic catches. Powers off the line of scrimw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

mage and can beat physical press coverage.


Shows sideline awareness. Tracks the deep ball
well over his shoulder and can adjust to the ball.
Good concentration. Can make the one-handed
grab. Eats up a lot
of ground with his
long strides. Has
consistently produced big plays in
the clutch. Excellent work ethic
is very driven.
Negatives: Not a
sudden
starter.
Could do a better
job of using his
size to post up
defenders and exert
his will on defenders. Relies on his
athletic ability too
much. Not creative
after the catch and Limas Sweed l TEXAS
will not elude
many defenders in the open field. Lacks confidence.
Summary: Tried competing through a wrist
injury during the season before having surgery
and was not fully recovered at the Senior Bowl
when he returned. When healthy earlier in his
career, he showed that he could be a clutch bigplay performer. Does not realize how good he
could be and works incredibly hard at his craft.
If he continues to make strides in the pros like he
did in college, he could be a legitimate No. 1
receiver.
JAMES D. SMITH

production. Very thinly built and does not play


strong or physical. Lacks speed and foot quickness and is raw as a route runner. Overaged. Not
built to withstand contact. Trouble has seemed to
follow him.
Summary: Could warrant a look in a camp.

WR DEVIN

THOMAS

(6-178, 216, 4.42) MICHIGAN STATE

Notes: Attended Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College from 2004-05. Tallied 33 receptions
for 674 yards (20.4-yard average) and five
touchdowns and returned three punts for 92
yards (30.7) and 15 kickoffs for 339 yards (22.6)
as a redshirt freshman in 05. Transferred to
Michigan State in 06 and started 1-of-10 games
in which he played in a five-WR set vs. Indiana.
Grabbed 6-90-1 (15.0) and returned punts 1-17
on the season. Started 12-of-13 games in 07 at
the Z spot, giving way to a two-TE set vs.
Notre Dame. Caught 79-1,260-8 (15.9), rushed
27 times for 177 yards (6.6), and returned punts
7-18-0 (2.6) and kickoffs 39-1,135-0 (29.1). Led
the Big Ten in receiving yards, set the conference single-season record for kickoff-return
yards and the school single-season record for
receptions.
Positives: Exceptional size-speed ratio. Has
great size and looks the part, with a muscled-up
physique and big hands. Will catch the ball in
traffic and is strong after the catch. Has a nose
for the endzone. Shows big-play capability. Can
beat physical press coverage and separate with
speed. Was used extensively on reverses and

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end-arounds and has natural run skills. Outstanding production. Shows a good short-area
burst returning kicks and good balance keeping
his feet through traffic.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Is raw and
still learning the game. Has not had to run a full
route tree and was used a lot on short digs and
slants. Does not make sharp cuts and is a bit
herky-jerky in his routes. Could take time to
adjust to an NFL playbook. Is a bit tightly
wound and a bit straight-linish.
Summary: An intimidating physical specimen
with major-league speed, Thomas emerged as a
big-time playmaker and strong kickoff returner
under a new coaching staff. Could contribute as
a kickoff returner as a rookie but may need some
time to develop into as a receiver and absorb a
playbook. Has a lot of upside if he can stay
focused.

WR/H-back

MARIO URRUTIA

(6-538, 232, 4.64) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Associated Press first-team all-state


selection in Kentucky as a senior in high school.
Was arrested on July 24, 2004 and charged with
menacing a police officer and disorderly conduct
after being involved in a heated argument that
alarmed participants at a picnic. When a police
officer asked him to leave, Urrutia pushed the
officers arm away and cursed at him. Urrutia
also resisted arrest, bumping into the arresting
officer and others at the picnic. Was presumably
disciplined by then-coach Bobby Petrino and the
school, although nature of discipline was undisclosed. Redshirted in 2004. Started 5-of-11
games in which he played in 05, catching 37
passes for 797 yards (21.7-yard average) and
seven touchdowns. Started 11-of-13 games in
06, catching 58-973-6. Was hampered by a nagging turf toe injury in 07 and played in just 10
games, with two starts. Missed two midseason
games due to the injury. Finished with 35-501-3
receiving.
Positives: Has excellent size with long arms.
Can power off the line and outmuscle defenders.
Shows some run strength after the catch. Good
competitive speed and has shown the ability to
take short gains the distance. Solid career production.
Negatives: Struggles to beat press coverage.
Has build-up speed and is not quick or sudden
out of his breaks. Too straight-linish. Raw route
runner. Lacks discipline and concentration lapses show up in play. Inconsistent catcher. Breaks
stride to catch. Picks up little yardage after the
catch. Only shows one speed and lacks the gear
to separate. Not a physical blocker at all for his
size. Not disciplined in his play and spent too
much time in the doghouse.
Summary: Is built more like an H-back than a
receiver and needs to be evaluated based on
junior tape before toe injury. May have to bulk
up and move inside. Could compete for a job as
possession receiver in a West Coast offense.

WR JOE

WEST

(6-118, 213, 4.56) UTEP

Notes: Cousin, Doug West, and uncle, Mark


West, played in the NBA. Joe also lettered in
basketball and track as a prep. Sat out as a partial qualifier in 2002. Started 1-of-9 games in
which he played as a true freshman in 03,
snatching six receptions for 42 yards (7.0-yard
average) and two touchdowns. Redshirted in 04
to concentrate on academics. Started 5-of-12
games in 05 and totaled 19-246-2 (12.9). In 06,
started 9-of-12 games, giving way to various
offensive alignments and posted 27-496-3
(18.4). Started 11-of-12 games in 07 and finished with 41-734-6 (17.9) receiving.
Positives: Good size and strength to come off
the line with power.
Negatives: Not a burner. Still raw as a route
runner and needs to learn how to sink his hips
and come out of routes. Gets hung up on the line
too much instead of using his natural strength to
press off smaller defenders. Not field fast.
Shows little creativity after the catch, nor the
speed to break away. Inconsistent hands not a
natural catcher. A bit tightly wound and does not
make natural adjustments to the ball. Not as
physical as would expect for his size.
Summary: Measurables will draw interest as a
developmental prospect but still has a ways to go
before the light comes on.

WR

WIDE RECEIVERS

3/5/08

ED WILLIAMS

(6-358, 206, 4.52) LANE (TENN.)

Notes: Attended University of West Alabama


and Alabama State from 2001-04, but he did not
play football due to academics. Transferred to
Lane College in 05 and started all 10 games,
catching 42 passes for 629 yards (15.0) and
seven touchdowns. Started 10-of-11 games in
06, missing one contest with an AC joint separation and torn right labrum and finished with
36-554-5 (15.4). Underwent postseason shoulder surgery but returned to start six games as a
senior on 07, catching 32-425-1 (13.3). Missed
the first two games because of eligibility issues
and the last two because of a sprained ankle.
Positives: Has good body length with very
long arms. Smart and responded well to coaching at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game
practices. Gets into routes quickly and uses his
hands well to fend off the jam. Sells his routes
with leans and nods. Fights for the ball in a
crowd. Shows some strength after the catch. Has
upside.
Negatives: Gears down to cut. Leaves break
points open to the ball and could do a better job
working back to it. Lacks great vertical speed
and does not have the top-end burst to separate.
Has faced marginal competition. Average
blocker.
Summary: Is most effective working underneath, where he shows the toughness to catch
across the middle. Has the intelligence and
upside worth developing.
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SPORTPICS

TIGHT ENDS
PFWS TOP

10

1. DUSTIN KELLER
2. Martellus Bennett
3. John Carlson
4. Fred Davis
5. Craig Stevens
6. Brad Cottam
7. Martin Rucker
8. Kellen Davis
9. Jermichael Finley
10. Jacob Tamme
TE/H-back ANDREW

ATCHISON

TIGHT ENDS

(6-538, 247, 4.76) WILLIAM & MARY

Notes: Also lettered in baseball and basketball


as a prep. Did not play sports as a true freshman
in 2003. Played baseball for the Tribe in 04.
Walked on to the football team in 05 and
appeared in four games. Started 5-of-11 games
in two-TE sets in 06 and caught 12 passes for
183 yards (15.2-yard average) and two touchdowns. Received the Winter Warrior Award as
the player most dedicated to offseason conditioning. Started all 11 games in 07 and grabbed
34-475-6 (14.0).
Positives: Competes for the ball in a crowd
and can snag the ball out of the air. Can reach a
moving target. Very dedicated and determined.
Smart learns quickly. Plays through pain.
Negatives: Does not play to his timed speed.
Not quick, sudden or very sharp as a route runner. Has faced marginal competition and did not
distinguish himself at the East-West Shrine
game. Not elusive after the catch. Lacks base
strength and power to block in-line. Gets in too
many stalemates. Needs to get bigger and
stronger. Only a 112-year starter.
Summary: Lean, limber, developmental
prospect whose baseball interests have gotten in
the way of his physical maturity. Has a chance to
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

stick on a roster if he commits himself to the


weight room and continues working on his craft.

TE/H-back GARY

BARNIDGE

(6-558, 243, 4.66) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Started 2-of-12 games at H-back as a 210-pound
true freshman in 2004 and posted seven receptions for 85 yards (12.1-yard average) and four
touchdowns. Started 7-of-11 games in a rotation
in 05, finishing with 17-240-2 (14.1). Missed
the Florida Atlantic game with a sprained right
ankle. In 06, started 12-of-13 games at tight end
and caught 31-511-4 (16.5). Started 10-of-12
games in which he played in 07, snagging 53655-7 (12.4).
Positives: Lines up all over the field. Has very
dependable hands and really competes in a
crowd. Shows very good concentration and is
unfazed by oncoming traffic. Tough. Turns
upfield quickly after the catch. Will sacrifice his
body, take a hit and hold on to the ball.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and bulk strength. A bit
tight in his movement and does not show speed
to separate vs. man coverage. Runs upright, does
not sink his hips and is slow to come out of
breaks. Has some difficulty beating the jam at
the line of scrimmage. Not a strong runner

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gets knocked off routes too easily. Has short
arms and does not get good extension. Struggles
to sustain. Weight has tended to fluctuate.
Summary: A very safe short-to-intermediate
target who should improve as a blocker as he
spends more time in an NFL strength-and-conditioning program. Should earn a roster spot and
be able to contribute fairly readily.

TE COLE

BENNETT

(6-418, 246, 4.83) AUBURN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school. Started 1-of-11 games as a true
freshman in 2003, catching six passes for 66
yards (11.0-yard average) and one touchdown.
Started 1-of-13 games in 04, grabbing 1-6-0
and recovering a fumble in the endzone for a
touchdown vs. Tennessee in the Southeastern
Conference championship game. Started 4-of-12
games in 05 when the Tigers opened in two-TE
sets and hauled in 9-107-2 (11.9). Started 2-of-3
games in 06 before suffering a broken bone in
his right ankle that required season-ending
surgery. Granted a medical redshirt. Started all
13 games in 07 and caught 11-108-0 (9.8).
Positives: Smart and understands the game.
Solid character.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Average
athlete. Limited speed. Lacks weight-room
strength and functional playing strength. Not
tough or physical. Gets ragdolled and controlled.
Poor production. Gets nothing after the catch.
Durability could be a concern.
Summary: Senior Bowl exposure might open
a door and allow him an opportunity to compete
in a camp.

TE MARTELLUS

BENNETT (Junior)

(6-618, 259, 4.72) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Brother, Michael, is a defensive lineman with the Aggies. Martellus also lettered in
basketball as a prep, averaging 23 points and 8.2
rebounds. Considered entering the 2005 NBA
draft out of high school but elected to forgo the
draft and enter Texas A&M after not being projected as a first-round pick. Played 25 games as
a reserve for the Aggies basketball team during
the 2005-06 season, and only four games as a
reserve during the 06-07 season. Quit the team
to focus on football. On the gridiron, started 5of-11 games in which he played as a true freshman in 05, splitting time with Boone Stutz and
Joey Thomas. Recorded 18 receptions for 162
yards (9.0-yard average) and three touchdowns.
Started all 13 games in 06 and caught 38-4973 (13.1). Started 6-of-12 games in which he
played in 07, missing the Nebraska contest
with sprained ankles, and tallied 49-587-4
(12.0).
Positives: Very natural athlete with big hands
and long arms. Moves fluidly, is very light on his
feet and adjusts easily to the ball. Good agility
and flexibility. Lines up in-line and in the slot
and shows the ability to sustain blocks in-line

and on the move. Can pluck the ball out of the


air. Flashes the agility to sidestep tacklers after
the catch but will also turn upfield and run with
some power. Can control and steer defenders
with his hands. Loaded with upside.
Negatives: Not a blazer. Lacks suddenness.
Too often is late off the ball. Not a polished route
runner. Will struggle to separate with speed at
the next level. Comes off as arrogant and immature. Relies on his natural ability and does not
like to work. Too immature. Not punctual. Not a
great team player. High-maintenance and will
need monitoring.
Summary: Is very physically gifted and is as
athletic as any pass catcher in the draft, but his
lack of discipline, selfishness and concerns
about his work ethic could restrict him from
becoming the type of pro he is capable of being.

TE/H-back/FB WADE

BETSCHART

(6-2, 248, 4.8e) WYOMING

Notes: Last name is pronounced BET-churt.


Won back-to-back Wyoming state wrestling
titles as a prep. Also won state titles in the shot
put as a junior and the discus as a senior.
Enrolled at Wyoming in 2003 but did not play
football. Started 1-of-12 games in 04 and
grabbed seven receptions for 39 yards (5.6-yard
average) and two touchdowns. Started 5-of-11
games in 05, giving way to three-WR sets and
totaling 7-72-2 (10.3). In 06, started 11-of-12
games, giving way to a multiple-receiver set and
registering 18-146-2 (8.1). Underwent postseason surgery for a Bankart lesion (labrum tear) in
his right shoulder. Was limited in fall practice by
a shoulder stinger. Recovered to start all 12
games in 07 and caught 32-296-2 (9.3).
Positives: Lines up all over the field, often on
the move, and has some versatility. Is aggressive
as a blocker. Runs hard upfield after the catch.
Takes the game seriously and works hard at it.
Has contributed on every special-teams unit.
Negatives: Undersized. Has faced average
competition. Does little with the ball in his
hands and is not elusive. Raw as a route runner
and does not play fast. Not a great athlete. Falls
off blocks and does not consistently finish.
Summary: Limited overachiever who could
warrant looks as a fullback or move tight end
and earn a shot on special teams.

TE ADAM

BISHOP

(6-478, 248, 5.02) NEVADA

Notes: Recorded a school-record 17 sacks as


a defensive lineman as a high school senior.
Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in 10-of-12 games
in 04 and caught two passes for 17 yards and
one touchdown (8.5-yard average). Started 1-of11 games in which he played in 05, finishing
with 7-48-1 (6.9). Started 5-of-9 games in which
he played two at tight end and three at fullback in 06, missing four games with a hip
injury and tallying 11-129-1 (11.7). Voted a
team co-captain and started all 13 games in 07,
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H-back/FB CHRIS

BROWN

(6-012, 249, 4.8e) TENNESSEE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep,


averaging 17 points and 12 rebounds. Started 3of-12 games at tight end as a true freshman in
2004 and registered six receptions for 74 yards
(12.3-yard average) and one touchdown. In 05,
started 10-of-11 games, giving way to a threeWR set against Mississippi and tallied 14-141-0
(10.1). Had shoulder surgery in the spring. Started all 13 games in 06 and grabbed 31-239-1
(7.7). Started all 14 games in 07 and snagged
41-282-6 (6.9).
Positives: Is versatile lines up at fullback,
in the slot and on the line. Has reliable hands and
catches naturally outside his frame.
Negatives: Too short. Lacks strength. Average
competitor. Does not pay attention to detail.
Rounds off his routes. Does not play with awareness or see the blitz. Marginal blocker. Does not
play to the whistle. Does not finish. Limited run
skills after the catch.
Summary: Classic underachiever with few
redeemable qualities. Best chance will come as a
pass-catching fullback.

TE JOHN

CARLSON

TIGHT ENDS

(6-518, 251, 4.88) NOTRE DAME

Notes: Also lettered in tennis and basketball


as a prep, earning McDonalds preseason AllAmerica honors as a senior. Redshirted in 2003
but did play two games for the Irish basketball
team. Started 2-of-12 games at fullback in 04
and compiled six receptions for 31 yards (5.2yard average). Started 6-of-12 games in multiple
TE sets in 05 alongside Dallas Cowboys 2006
second-round pick Anthony Fasano, finishing
with 7-56 (8.0) and one touchdown. In 06, started 11-of-13 games, missing two contests with a
right medial collateral sprain suffered against
Air Force, and recorded 47-634-4 (13.5). Also
named as one of three finalists for the John
Mackey Award (nations top tight end). Started
all 12 games in 07 as one of four team captains
and grabbed 40-372-3 (9.3). Was forced to withdraw from the Senior Bowl because of a virus
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

that caused him to lose 17 pounds in eight days.


Already has graduated.
Positives: Well built with long arms and good
athleticism. Gets off the line quickly, can beat the
jam and get into his routes. Diagnoses coverages,
setttles into zones and can find soft spots in coverage. Natural catcher. Can extend outside his
frame, pluck the ball out of the air and make difficult catches in traffic. Good concentration. Will
drop his shoulder and fight
for extra yardage after the
catch. Sustains blocks and
mirrors his man. Very smart
and competitive. Excellent
worker. Coachs son has
a good feel for the game
and will be able to digest an
NFL playbook quickly.
Negatives: Not an elite
athlete. Does not have
great burst or short-area
John Carlson l
quickness to separate.
NOTRE DAME
Lacks bulk and plays a bit
narrow-based as a blocker. Not nasty and does
not drive defenders into the ground. Average
anchor strength. Plays with little power. Could
improve in pass protection.
Summary: Decided to return to school for his
senior season and was handicapped by a weak
supporting cast and a revolving door at quarterback. Evaluators who do not revisit junior tape
could underevaluate him and not give him the
credit he deserves. A better pass catcher than
blocker at this stage in his career, Carlson has
the smarts, intelligence and work ethic to develop into a very solid all-around prospect. Combine performance raised concerns about speed.
BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

catching 14-223-7 (15.9).


Positives: Gives good effort and flashes the
initial quickness to get positioning at the snap.
Very smart and learns quickly. Tough. Has some
versatility and has long-snapping ability. Good
competitor.
Negatives: Has short arms, small hands and
lacks bulk. Too thinly built and stiff and gets
knocked off the line and jammed. Too often late
off the ball. Mechanical mover. Does not play
fast and struggles to get down the field. Lacks
functional strength. Does not have great instincts
for the game. Very limited production.
Summary: Has physical limitations that could
make it difficult to match up at the pro level, but
smarts, intangibles and long-snapping ability
could give him a chance.

H-back/FB JED

COLLINS

(6-158, 254, 4.85e) WASHINGTON STATE

Notes: Father, Mike, and brother, Jake, both


played basketball at Seattle University, and his
brother, Lenny, played basketball at Cornell. Saw
time in 11 games at tight end and fullback as a
true freshman in 2004 and caught three passes
for 51 yards (17.0) and rushed once for three
yards. Also played middle linebacker, posting
four tackles and one fumble recovery. Appeared
primarily on special teams in all 11 games in 05,
carrying the ball once for three yards. Started 4of-12 games as an injury replacement at tight end
in 06, catching 22-306 (13.9) and three touchdowns and rushing 5-5 with two TDs. Recorded
13 tackles. Started all 12 games in 07, grabbing
52-512-3 (9.8), rushing 3-3-0, returning a punt
for 18 yards and notching 12 tackles on special
teams. Has two documented concussions dating
back to high school.
Positives: Adjusts well to the thrown ball,
catches outside his frame and can snag the ball
out of the air. Competitive blocker. Plays with
confidence. Solid worker. Has contributed on
special teams and is solid in coverage.
Negatives: Lacks ideal length and functional

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strength to block in-line. Falls off blocks on the
move and struggles to sustain. Too tightly wound
and not a polished route runner. Marginal run
strength after the catch. Very marginal run skills
too stiff and straight-linish. Shows no lateral
quickness or power and runs small when he has
touched the ball in short-yardage situations.
Summary: Caught the ball well at the EastWest Shrine game and looked more like a fullback than a tight end. Needs an angle and
momentum to generate any movement as a blocker and will have to make it as an H-back and on
special teams. Does not show the thump or ability to sustain to fit as a classic lead-blocking fullback. Best trait is his ability to catch the ball.

TE BRAD

COTTAM

(6-712, 270, 4.71) TENNESSEE

Notes: Already graduated. Brother, Jeff, is a


tight end with the Vols. Brad also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep. Appeared in three
games from 2003-05, posting two receptions for
34 yards (17.0-yard average). Started 6-of-13
games in 06, primarily as a blocker and nabbed
14-182 (13.0). Missed the first nine games of the
07 season with a broken left wrist suffered during an August scrimmage. Started the final 4-of5 games in which he played in two-TE sets with
Chris Brown. Finished with 5-125-1 receiving.
Positives: Excellent length with long arms
and a giant wingspan. Can swim off the line,
beat the jam and get into his routes quickly. Is
agile for as tall as he is. Can open his stride,
accelerate and get a step on linebackers up the
field to create some separation. Fluid mover.
Good body control. Solid route runner. Adjusts
easily to the ball. Can fit up on linebackers on
the second level. Very smart and hardworking
and works hard to improve.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and bulk strength and
is not an accomplished blocker. Can be controlled too easily. Needs to get bigger, stronger
and play with a better base and balance as a
blocker. Lets the ball into his body. Not elusive
after the catch.
Summary: Appeared athletic at the Senior
Bowl and made some impressive grabs, standing
out as a pass catcher after missing most of his
senior season to injury. Intangibles are strong
and has a lot of upside, but a lean build and rare
length could make it difficult for him to stay
healthy. Still must make considerable gains in
the weight room and as a blocker and learn to
play with leverage.

TE FRED

DAVIS

(6-3, 255, 4.65e) USC

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school. Played in nine games at wide
receiver and tight end as a true freshman in
2004, catching four passes for 30 yards (7.5yard average). Started 3-of-13 games in 05 at
tight end and grabbed 13-145 (11.2) and two
touchdowns. Started 10-of-13 games in 06,

grabbing 38-352-3 (9.3). Started all 13 games in


07, amassing 62-881-8 (14.2) and leading the
Trojans in receptions. Was voted the Mackey
Award winner as the nations top tight end.
Positives: Looks the part with a thick, solid
build and long arms. Still has room to get bigger.
Has natural receiving skills and good body control to adjust to the ball. Can create mismatches
in the slot with his size and athleticism. Good
movement skills. Shows the ability to separate
against man coverage. Can adjust to poorly
thrown balls, extend outside his frame and make
the difficult catch. Turns his shoulders upfield
quickly after the catch. Can wall off defenders
and get in the way. Excellent production.
Negatives: Does not play toughly or very
physically. Not aggressive or strong at the point
of attack and does not consistently finish blocks.
Comes off the ball late and lacks discipline in his
overall play. Although he is physically capable
of becoming a solid blocker and shows flashes in
this area, he does not show much desire and
might never reach his potential. Struggles to seal
linebackers on the second level. Not a finisher.
Takes choppy steps and does not show great
burst or explosiveness out of his breaks. Shows
some hesitation entering traffic and does not
secure the football on contact. Not an elusive
runner after the catch. Is immature and needs to
be monitored.
Summary: If he could stay focused, toughen
up and become a more willing blocker, he could
develop into a great pro, but it took until his
senior year for him to really emerge at USC and
he might require some patience in the pros. Will
bring the most value as a pass catcher. Still plays
with too much of a receivers mentality.

TE KELLEN

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DAVIS

(6-612, 262, 4.63) MICHIGAN STATE

Notes: Half-brother, Josh Freeman, played for


the Spartans in 1995. Kellen appeared in 11
games as a true freshman in 2004 and grabbed
one pass for 29 yards. Started 4-of-11 games in
05 as part of two-TE sets and recorded 15-1222 (8.1-yard average). In 06, started 6-of-8 games
and was suspended four games after being
charged with aggravated assault for an incident at
an off-campus party on Oct. 6, 2006. Was placed
on 18 months of probation and reinstated for the
final three games, finishing with 12-125-1 (10.4).
Started 12-of-13 games in 07, giving way to a
multiple-receiver set vs. Pittsburgh and totaling
32-513-6 (16.0). Also saw snaps throughout the
season at defensive end, recording six tackles, 212
tackles for loss and two sacks.
Positives: Has a big bone structure, good
muscular definition, wide shoulders and a powerful base. Great body length and catching
radius. Has good leaping ability. Outstanding
natural athlete. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Does not play to his potential and
consistently has underachieved throughout his
career. Lacks power and does not drive defendw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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ers off the ball.
Summary: Is not nearly the blocker that Seahawks 2002 first-rounder Jerramy Stevens was,
even though he shows the ability to block when
he wants to. Possesses the physical capability to
dominate and worked out well at the Combine
but has gone through the motions all of his career
and thus far has failed to live up to his potential.
A classic boom-or-bust pick, Davis will require
tough coaching and a lot of attention.

TE/H-back DEREK

FINE

TIGHT ENDS

(6-258, 251, 4.84) KANSAS

Notes: Named scout team Offensive Player of


the Year in 2003. Started 1-of-11 games in 04
and nabbed two receptions for 16 yards (8.0yard average). In 05, emerged to start all 12
games, catching 22-244 and one touchdown.
Started 10-of-12 games in 06, giving way to
three-WR sets against Nebraska and Baylor, and
compiled 28-355-5 (12.7). Started 10-of-13
games in 07, giving way to multiple-receiver
sets and recording 46-394-4 (8.6).
Positives: Effective blocking on the move as a
lead blocker and on the second level. Plays
smart, shows good awareness and can quickly
locate his target. Works to finish blocks. Natural
hands catcher. Very competitive. Blue-collar
worker. Tough. Plays through injuries and contributes on special teams. Very durable and has
not missed any time throughout his career.
Negatives: Not a great athlete. Not a refined
route runner. Lacks speed to get down the field.
Not creative after the catch and goes down easily after contact. Lacks the girth to be effective
in-line and could be outmatched by size.
Summary: Reliable underneath target who
could bring value as a blocker on the move. Is not
flashy but is a very solid, unselfish player who
will do the little things that make a team better.

TE JERMICHAEL

FINLEY (Sophomore)

TIGHT ENDS

(6-412, 243, 4.85) TEXAS

Notes: Set school career records for receptions


(316), receiving yards (2,217) and touchdown
catches (30) as a prep. Also lettered in basketball,
averaging 24 points and 20 rebounds as a high
school senior. Redshirted as a true freshman in
2005. Started 4-of-13 games in 06 in two-TE
sets and primarily backed up Neale Tweedie.
Caught 31 passes for 372 yards (13.0) and three
touchdowns. Started all 13 games in 07, registering 45-575-2 (12.8), highlighted by a 4-149-1
performance vs. Oklahoma. Entering the draft as
a redshirt sophomore. Has two children.
Positives: Quick-twitch athlete with the speed
to get downfield. Flashes big-play capabilities.
Adjusts well to poorly thrown and low passes,
showing good body control while contorting in
the air and can make difficult grabs. Has the
speed to run away from linebackers. Has performed well against better competition. Shows
surprising strength as a blocker for as light as he
is. Can lock on and sustain. Shows awareness in
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

pass protection. Can flip his hips quickly and


shows the agility to take the edge from defensive
ends. Solid career production. Has a lot of upside.
Negatives: Narrow-framed and lacks girth.
Plays with too much finesse and needs to spend
more time in the weight room and get stronger.
Not a polished route runner, rounds off his
breaks and drifts out of routes. Does not sell his
routes. Lacks functional strength. Does not run
through contact. Could be distracted too easily.
Ran slower-than-expected 40-time at Combine.
Summary: Would have benefited from the
physical development and maturity he would
have received from another year in school. Is
naturally athletic and could contribute as a pass
catcher and develop into a fine blocker, but is
still very raw and will require a lot of coaching.

TE JOE

JON FINLEY

(6-614, 254, 4.75e) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Coached by his father as a prep. Also


lettered in track and field (100-meter hurdles).
Redshirted in 2003. Played in 12-of-13 games in
04, notching seven receptions for 94 yards
(13.4-yard average) and one touchdown. Started
2-of-11 games in which he played in 05 and
caught 13-150-2 (11.5). In 06, started all 14
games, grabbing 19-241-3 (12.7). Started 13-of14 games in 07, registering 23-290-4 (12.6).
Positives: Very good size. Gives effort as a
blocker. Reliable short-to-intermediate receiver.
Caught the ball surprisingly well at the EastWest Shrine game and plucked the ball out of the
air. Good worker. Smart and dependable.
Coachs son.
Negatives: Shows some tightness in his movement and is not very fluid. Too straight-linish. Not
a sudden mover. Does not extend easily and catch
the ball outside his frame not a great athlete
and only picks up what is there after the catch.
Struggles to engage moving targets on the second
level and on the perimeter. Will bend at the waist,
lose his feet and struggle to sustain. Plays too narrow-based with marginal leg strength.
Summary: Scrappy, self-made player who
was overshadowed among a very strong supporting cast and never featured in the passing game.
Did show promise at the East-West Shrine game
and does everything well enough to develop into
a solid No. 2.

TE JOEY

HAYNOS

(6-758, 259, 4.93) MARYLAND

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Walked on and redshirted in 2003. Appeared in
eight games in 04 in two-TE blocking situations. Saw action in nine games in 05 as a
reserve tight end behind Vernon Davis and
caught one pass for three yards and a touchdown. Started 6-of-13 games in 06, snagging
37-369-3 (10.0). Started 6-of-13 games in 07 as
part of two-TE sets but was elevated to starter
down the stretch after junior Dan Gronkowski
suffered a medial collateral ligament injury.

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TE LOUIS

IRIZARRY

(6-378, 254, 4.7e) YOUNGSTOWN STATE

Notes: Attended Ohio State and played eight


games primarily on special teams as a true freshman in 2003. Was arrested in October of that
season and convicted on assault, negligent
assault and disorderly conduct charges after
engaging in a fight with two male students and
pushing his girlfriend. Spent three days in jail.
Pleaded guilty and was put on probation for one
year. Was consequently suspended by the university, but then reinstated prior to the Fiesta
Bowl. In May of 04, he was arrested again and
this time was charged with felony robbery in the
second degree after he and a teammate assaulted
a student and stole his wallet. This violated his
probation for the prior assault charge. Pleaded
guilty and was sentenced to three years in
prison, but he only served six months. Enrolled
at Youngstown State and redshirted as a walk-on
in 05. Started 8-of-14 games in 06, catching 25
passes for 304 yards (12.2-yard average) and
two touchdowns. Started 2-of-7 games in which
he played in 07, missing four midseason games
with a broken bone in his right hand suffered vs.
Stony Brook and finishing with 17-133-1 (7.8).
Positives: Good athlete with nice musculature. Flashes the ability to threaten the seam and
get up the field. Good leaping ability.
Negatives: Character is a concern. Makes too
many excuses. Lacks mental and physical toughness. Does not like to block and gives little effort
in this area. Will get ragdolled in-line. Shaky
concentration. Does not like to get hit and will
drop too many catchable balls. Not a refined
route runner. Marginal competitiveness.
Summary: Lacks the heart, desire and toughness for the pro game but has enough athleticism
to draw the interest of a club and could warrant
a chance.

TE KOLO

KAPANUI

(6-338, 271, 5.11) WEST TEXAS A&M

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Attended USC in 2001 and redshirted. Withdrew

from USC because of academics and attended El


Camino College (Calif.) in 2002 and 03, playing 14 games over the two seasons. Did not
attend school from 2004-05. Enrolled at West
Texas A&M in 06 and played in eight games,
catching 26 passes for 286 yards (11.0-yard
average) and two touchdowns. Missed three
games with knee and quad injuries. Started all
12 games in 07 and grabbed 39-481-7 (12.3).
Positives: Has excellent size and natural
strength. Catches the ball extremely well. Runs
hard after the catch. Is physical to power through
tacklers and press off the line.
Negatives: Lacks speed. Is not an astute route
runner. Does not have a good feel for the game.
Not a great practice player. Could take time to
absorb a playbook. Has faced average competition. Overaged. Lacks mental toughness. Average production. Has been slowed by too many
nagging injuries. Does not play to his size and
looks too content getting in the way as a blocker.
Summary: Will impress with how physical he
can be when he touches the ball but has too
many holes in his game to warrant drafting and
would require considerable development.

TE/H-back DUSTIN

KELLER

(6-2, 242, 4.57) PURDUE

Notes: Father played basketball at Morehead


State, and grandfather played football at Purdue.
Dustin set Indiana state single-season records of
113 receptions and 1,804 yards (16.0-yard average), adding 22 touchdowns as a high school
senior. Also lettered in basketball and track as a
prep, capturing the state high-jump championship as a senior. Redshirted in 2003. Moved
from wide receiver to tight end and started 1-of9 games in which he played in 04, catching five
passes for 102 yards (20.4) and two touchdowns.
Saw action in 10-of-11 games as a reserve in 05,
missing the Minnesota
contest with a sprained
right ankle and totaling
13-128-3 (9.8). Started
12-of-14 games in 06,
giving way to four-receiver sets and catching 56771-4 (13.8). Started all
13 games in 07, compiling 68-881-7 (13.0)
despite playing with a
right shoulder injury. Had
surgery on the shoulder
Dustin Keller l PURDUE following the season.
Positives: Very athletic
with good foot speed. Competitiveness stands
out on tape plays with some fire. Attacks the
ball in the air. Can elevate and make the acrobatic grab. Accelerates quickly off the line, takes
smooth strides and can run by linebackers in the
short-passing game. Moves fluidly. Shows good
balance in his feet and good body control to stay
on his routes through contact. Has shown the
ability to take short catches the distance. Will
BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

Totaled 30-318-0 (10.6).


Positives: Has exceptional size. Can adjust to
the ball and catch it easily. Gives effort as a blocker. Smart and hardworking. Very solid character.
Negatives: Has an elongated torso with short
arms. Plays too tall. Too tightly wound. Loses
leverage and can be overpowered. Is slow off the
line and takes time to accelerate. Not sudden out
of his breaks or fluid as a route runner. Creates
little yardage after the catch and is not strong
with the ball in his hands. Average blocker
struggles to get positioning and sustain.
Summary: Self-made overachiever who often
aligned in the wing off the ball in two-TE sets
and contributed in the short-passing game. Awkward body type and leverage deficiencies could
prevent him from ever excelling as a blocker. Has
the mental toughness to battle for a roster spot.

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fight for the tough yards, dropping his shoulder
and bowling over would-be tacklers. Very active
blocker and will work to sustain. Well-conditioned athlete lives in the weight room. Great
work ethic.
Negatives: Lacks size and girth to control
defenders at the point of attack and is not effective as an in-line blocker. Not an every-down
player. Does not shoot his hands with authority.
Plays short-armed, does not extend and lock out.
Lacks functional strength and does not always
convert his weight-room strength to the field.
Not very elusive. Was not used a lot vertically.
Summary: A converted receiver who could be
very effective in a situational type of role where
he could line up in the slot and create on the
move but is not a throwaway as a blocker and
does compete well enough to be functional in
this area. Outstanding Combine performance
will elevate his draft stock.

H-back/TE BRAD

LISTORTI

614-6 (12.8). Started 14-of-15 games in 06,


grabbing 38-536-5 (14.1). Team captain. Started
all 13 games in which he played in 07, missing
the Missouri Western contest with an injury and
finishing with 44-706-5 (16.0).
Positives: Moves well in a straight line and
shows some creativity with the ball in his hands.
Works hard, gives good effort and is coachable.
Negatives: Does not have a great feel for the
game. Takes time to process what he sees and
does not have great instincts for the position.
Tight in the hips. Can be late to release off the
line and gets re-routed. Does not track the ball
well over his shoulder. Has short arms and is not
a consistent hands catcher. Not a polished route
runner and will take time to learn how to read
coverages. Technique needs a lot of refinement
as a blocker. Will be a 25-year-old rookie.
Summary: Undersized, move tight end who
has brought value in the short-passing game.
Speed will command some interest but is still a
very raw developmental project.

(6-238, 251, 4.7e) MASSACHUSETTS

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Attended Rutgers and redshirted in 2003.
Appeared in 15 games, primarily on special
teams, over the next two seasons while backing
up Clark Harris. Missed two games in 05 with a
sprained right knee. Transferred to Massachusetts to see more action and started all 15 games
in 06, registering 38 receptions for 604 yards
(15.9-yard average) and three touchdowns. Sat
out the first 12 games of the 07 season with a
back injury. Caught 1-4-1 in the final game of
the year.
Positives: Has good speed and shows some
athleticism and body control to make difficult
catches. Has reliable hands.
Negatives: Disinterested blocker with marginal leg strength, base and balance. Gets dominated at the point of attack. Whiffs and falls off
blocks. Too top-heavy. Needs to improve lowerbody strength. Durability has been an issue and
could continue to be given his finesse style.
Summary: A complete liability as a blocker,
Listorti flashed some big-play capability as a
junior before missing almost his entire senior
season. Receiving skills give him a chance.

TE MIKE

PETERSON

(6-214, 247, 4.66) NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE

Notes: Is working toward a Masters degree.


Also lettered in baseball and track as a prep.
Attended Des Moines Area Community College
and played baseball in 2001. Moved on to Iowa
Western Community College from 2002-03 but
did not play football. Transferred to Northwest
Missouri State and walked on to the football
team in 04, playing all 12 games in reserve.
Caught three passes for 55 yards (18.3-yard
average) and one touchdown and returned two
kickoffs for 24 yards (12.0). Earned a scholarship and started 11-of-13 games in 05, missing
two contests with a broken jaw and tallying 48w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

TE MARTIN

RUCKER

(6-478, 251, 4.63) MISSOURI

Notes: Father, Martin Sr., is a member of the


House of Representatives in Missouri and brother, Mike, was an All-American defensive lineman at Nebraska and currently plays for the Carolina Panthers. Martin Jr. suffered a broken left
leg in high school. Redshirted in 2003. Underwent surgery for a torn right labrum in the spring
of 04 but returned to start all 11 games and
snagged 19 passes for 263 yards (13.8-yard
average) and four touchdowns. Started all 12
games in 05 and caught 47-567-1 (12.1). Started all 13 games in 06, grabbing 53-511-5 (9.6).
Started all 14 games in 07 and amassed 84-8348 (9.9), leading the team and all of the nations
tight ends in receptions.
Positives: Natural athlete with a big frame and
very long arms. Good movement skills. Can separate vs. man coverage. Shows good body control to adjust to the ball. Is instinctive and has a
knack for finding open areas when a play breaks
down. Is smart and plays with awareness. Has
good instincts for the position. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Does not factor into the blocking
game not physical, plays too tall and lacks
functional strength. Not strong at the point of
attack. Not explosive off the line into his routes.
Inconsistent hands. Will short-arm the ball and
turn upfield before he catches it, losing concentration. Does not create after the catch. Has a
sense of entitlement having come from a very
successful family and must learn what it really
means to work.
Summary: Is used like a receiver and cannot
be expected to factor into the blocking game.
Does not have great run-after-the-catch ability or
toughness and needs to become a better student
of the game. Could fit as an H-back and be lined
up in the slot.

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TE TOM

SANTI

(6-312, 250, 4.82) VIRGINIA

Notes: Also lettered in baseball as a prep.


Started 3-of-12 games as a true freshman in
2004 (two as a fullback and one as a tight end)
and totaled 13 receptions for 155 yards (11.9yard average). Started 7-of-11 games in which
he played at tight end (six) and fullback (one) in
05 and registered 19-358 (18.8) and two TDs.
Started 10-of-12 games in 06, playing sparingly in the final two contests because of a sore
shoulder and posted 29-253-1 (8.7). Named a
team captain and started 8-of-12 games in which
he played in 07, primarily in two-TE sets with
Jonathan Stupar. Grabbed 36-418-3 (11.6).
Positives: Solid blocker. Works to the second
level and gets good fits on linebackers. Uses his
hands well. Knows how to work through zones
and settle into open areas. Makes some tough
catches in traffic and will deliver and can take a
hit. Works hard. Has a passion for the game.
Quietly competitive. Good football character.
Very durable.
Negatives: Lacks speed to get down the seam.
Does not play fast or show much craftiness as a
route runner. Average body control. Does not
create with the ball in his hands. Not overly
powerful or strong to create much push or knock
defenders off the ball.
Summary: Solid all-around prospect with all
the intangibles to make a roster and contribute.
A better football player than athlete, Santi could
bring value in the late rounds.

TE MATT

SHERRY

(6-338, 250, 4.73) VILLANOVA

Notes: Also lettered in golf as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in six games in 04 as
a backup tight end, catching eight passes for 74
yards (9.3-yard average). Started all 11 games in
05, hauling in 25-275 (11.0) and three touchdowns. Played in all 11 games in 06, starting
seven and caught 19-249-1 (13.1). Had surgery
on both shoulders after tearing his labrums in
05. Voted team captain. Started all 11 games in
07 and snared 37-461-5 (12.5).
Positives: Is athletic and moves well in a
straight line to get down the field. Gives effort to
block.
Negatives: Narrow-framed and lacks bulk
strength. Does not play strong or physical. Questionable toughness. Shows some tightness when
adjusting to the ball. Rounds out of his breaks
and is not a crisp or savvy route runner. Did not
dominate vs. lesser competition.
Summary: Looked raw at the Texas vs. the
Nation all-star game but has enough speed and
athleticism to warrant a chance.

TE CRAIG

STEVENS

(6-314, 254, 4.64) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Cousin, Mike Tully, won a silver


medal in the pole vault in the 1984 Summer
Olympics. Craig broke his left ankle in his final

game in high school. Redshirted in 2003 and


was named the Scout Team Player of the Year on
offense. Started 1-of-12 games in 04, catching
four passes for 61 yards (15.3-yard average) and
one touchdown. Started all 12 games in 05,
catching 13-165-2 (12.7). Started 7-of-13 games
in 06, with Cal opening in three-receiver sets in
five games, hauling in 17-239-1 (14.1). Suffered
a concussion on the opening kickoff vs.
Tennessee and sat out the whole game. Appointed team captain by Jeff Tedford as a junior, one
of only two juniors to ever receive the distinction
(joining former QB Aaron Rodgers). Named the
offensive team captain again in 07 and started
all 13 games, corralling 17-204-3 (12.0).
Positives: Has a good, solid build. Plays
tough, is strong at the point and can control the
line of scrimmage. Plays physical. Gets into
blocks, can run his feet on contact and work his
hips around. Has the strength to anchor against
bigger defenders. Good hand use. Solid footwork. Will finish blocks. Initiates contact after
the catch and will drop his shoulder. Great work
ethic. Solid character. Has been very durable.
Ran surprisingly well at the Combine.
Negatives: Not a great athlete. Does not get
great extension. Tends to cradle-catch and has a
good share of drops. Has a laboring release with
build-up speed and takes time to get into routes.
Is not a nifty or elusive runner after the catch.
Summary: Spent a lot of time honing his craft
as a blocker at Cal and is still underdeveloped
and inconsistent as a pass catcher. Stood out as a
blocker at the East-West Shrine game and should
be able to contribute readily as a No. 2 blocking
tight end in the pros. Must continue to work on
catching the ball.

TE MARCUS

TIGHT ENDS

3/5/08

STONE

(6-3, 245, 4.89e) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Notes: A Parade All-American as a high


school quarterback in Pennsylvania. Redshirted
in 2003. Saw action in seven games as a backup
quarterback in 04. Missed the Clemson and
Georgia Tech games with a knee sprain. Took
over the starting QB job at midseason in 05,
posting a 5-1 record, including the bowl win
over South Florida. Started at quarterback the
first three games of the 06 season, then didnt
play for three games before playing the last six
games of the season as a tight end. Caught four
passes for 68 yards. Started 10-of-12 games at
tight end in 07, catching 36-452-1.
Positives: Very natural hands. Shows the ability to adjust and contort his body to make difficult catches. Can dig out the low ball and reach
behind him. Is smart and has a good understanding of the game. Gives effort as a blocker and
shows some run strength and toughness.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Lacks
speed to beat man coverage. Not strong or explosive and does not play physical. Needs to learn
how to block.
Summary: Converted quarterback with very
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

TIGHT ENDS

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good body control and natural athleticism. Still
very raw but could develop into a solid
prospect.

TE DARRELL

STRONG

TIGHT ENDS

(6-4, 268, 4.83) PITTSBURGH

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track


and field as a prep. Started 1-of-12 games as a
receiver in a four-WR set as a true freshman in
2004. Caught four passes for 58 yards (14.5yard average). Moved to tight end and started
2-of-11 games in 05, grabbing 16-226 (14.1)
and one touchdown. Started 4-of-10 games in
which he played in 06 but was suspended two
games for an obscene gesture he made toward
South Florida fans. Finished with 15-171-3
(11.4) and also threw a 30-yard TD pass on a
trick play. Cited for criminal mischief and
harassment in May 07 after an altercation in
which he pushed his ex-girlfriend during an
argument. Was subject to unspecified internal
disciplinary measures by the university. Started
3-of-12 games in 07 in two-TE sets, losing his
starting job early in the year and finishing with
29-328-3 (11.3).
Positives: Looks the part physically with long
arms and an athletic build. Has a big body to
post up defenders.
Negatives: Was not a full-time starter. Does
not play with passion. Does not play on any special teams. Is not quick in and out of breaks and
cannot make adjustments to the ball. Tends to
short-arm passes across the middle. Plays soft.
Very limited after the catch. Does not like to
block. Too often looks complacent, going
through the motions. Too undisciplined. Questionable character.
Summary: Has the physical ability to play
with the big boys but lacks the mental makeup to
make it. Career underachiever who needs to
grow up fast to have a chance.

TE JONATHAN

STUPAR

TIGHT ENDS

(6-318, 250, 4.85e) VIRGINIA

Notes: Father, Steve, played football at Penn


State in 1979. Uncle, Jeff Hostetler, played 12
NFL seasons and led the New York Giants to victory over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXV.
Jonathan also lettered in basketball as a prep.
Redshirted in 2003. Was limited to two games in
04 after breaking a foot in training camp and
then re-aggravating the injury. Finished with 113-0. Was diagnosed with Wolfe Parkinson White
Syndrome, a sometimes fatal condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly, and underwent a
potentially fatal corrective surgery. Less than
three months later was able to participate in 05
spring practice. Started 8-of-11 games in which
he played in the fall of 05, primarily in two-TE
sets. Compiled 24-319-1 (13.3). Started 9-of-12
games in 06 in a rotation with Tom Santi and
recorded 15-112-0 (7.5). Started 10-of-13 games
in 07, grabbing 40-359-2 (9.0).
Positives: Catches the ball well in traffic
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

and shows toughness working across the middle. Can turn and catch the ball naturally on
the move. Understands blocking angles and
will work to the second level. Has a passion
for the game. Solid production. Has NFL
bloodlines.
Negatives: Limited athlete. Too tightly wound
and mechanical in his movement. Rounds out of
his breaks and struggles to separate. Lacks burst
off the line. Takes long strides, shows no acceleration and shows no creativity after the catch.
Not a powerful blocker.
Summary: Medical status could limit his
chances, but toughness and work habits could
open a door. Could contribute in the short-passing game and as a blocker well enough to fight
for a roster spot.

TE/H-back JACOB

TAMME

(6-312, 236, 4.61) KENTUCKY

Notes: Married. Graduated in three years and


is working toward a Masters Degree in business
administration. Also lettered in basketball and
baseball in high school. Redshirted as a wide
receiver in 2003. Started 3-of-11 games in 04,
moving to tight end in the season finale and
grabbing 16 passes for 161 yards (10.1-yard
average) and two touchdowns. Started 10-of-11
games at tight end in 05, snagging 29-251-1
(8.7) and blocking two punts on special teams.
Underwent postseason surgery after tearing the
labrum in both shoulders. Started 10-of-13
games in 06, grabbing 32-386-2 (12.1). Also
was holder on FG attempts and PATs and has
worked as a deep-snapper. Started all 13 games
in 07, totaling 56-619-6 (11.1).
Positives: Good athlete. Runs smooth routes.
Quick enough to separate against linebackers.
Shows the ability to stretch the seam and get vertical. Nice body control. Good concentration. Is
slippery off the jam and sells his routes. Can
extend outside his frame and pluck the ball.
Runs hard upfield after the catch. Has made big
plays in big games. As a blocker, can get out to
the second level. Has learned multiple positions
and is extremely smart. Great character. Good
work ethic.
Negatives: Has thin shoulders, lacks bulk and
is not naturally big. Play small with little
strength. Not explosive off the line. Deficient inline blocker. Can be fazed by contact and drop
the ball in a crowd. Has small hands and a frame
that cannot get much bigger. Plays too narrowbased. Not physical and could struggle beating
the jam at the next level. Has had some shoulder
injuries and long-term durability could come
into question given his lack of bulk.
Summary: Reminds some scouts of Dallas
Clark because of his pure speed, intelligence,
lack of toughness and baby face but is not
nearly as big, quick or athletic. Could be used
in a similar situational type, move role where
he is not asked to contribute much as a blocker.

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SPORTPICS

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN
PFWS TOP

10

1. JAKE LONG
2. Ryan Clady
3. Jeffrey Otah
4. Branden Albert
5. Chris Williams
6. Gosder Cherilus
7. Sam Baker
8. Oniel Cousins
9. Chilo Rachal
10. Mike Pollak

ADAMS

(6-418, 323, 5.29) GEORGIA

Notes: Goes by the nickname Big Cheese.


Also lettered in basketball. Saw action in nine
games in 2004 as a true freshman reserve lineman and special-teamer. Played in all 13 games
as a backup guard in 05. Started 11 games at
right guard in 06, missing two games late in the
season with a high left ankle sprain. Started all
12 games in which he played at right tackle in
07, missing the Western Carolina game early in
the season with a shoulder injury. Served as a
team captain.
Positives: Big-bodied with a strong, thick
trunk. Is athletic and light on his feet. Can shuffle and slide and cut off the wide rush. Has good
weight-room strength and power. Shows the
strength to anchor and hold his ground not
easily moved.
Negatives: Not a finisher. Average agility. On
the ground too much. Loses leverage and does
not use his natural strength. Bends too much at
the waist and gets overextended. Does not show
snap in his punch. Does too much catching and,
as a result, really struggles to sustain. Late reacting to the blitz. Not much of a worker. Does not
play with passion or nastiness.
Summary: Moved to right tackle out of neces-

sity as a senior. Best chance in the pros will


come at right guard, where he is most suited to
use his natural power and looked more comfortable as a junior. Brings versatility to be an emergency right tackle, but could be exposed on the
edge and will require chip help.

OLG-OLT BRANDEN

ALBERT (Junior)

(6-558, 309, 5.19) VIRGINIA

Notes: Didnt begin playing football until his


junior year of high school. Was a basketball
standout before deciding to give the gridiron a
try. Spent 2004 season at Hargrave Military
Academy (Va.). Was named to the Atlantic Coast
Conference All-Freshman Team in 05, and
allowed only one sack in 06 as a sophomore.
Has started every game his college career, as he
started his first 24 at left guard, then started 11 at
left guard and two at left tackle in place of
injured starter Eugene Monroe in 07. Also
served as a captain during 06 and 07 seasons.
Positives: Extremely athletic. Very natural
athlete with incredibly long arms and a giant
wingspan. Great balance. Plays on his feet and is
rarely on the ground. Sends linebackers flying
when on the move and can generate great power
through his punch. Explosive mover. Shows
good awareness in pass protection. Can pull and
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

ORG-ORT CHESTER

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2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


decision against Southern Miss and Marshall.
Got into the game at UAB. Started the last four
games, including the Conference USA championship game and the Liberty Bowl.
Positives: Understands the game and plays
with awareness. Locates the blitz and can play
off blocks. Moves his feet well to pull and trap.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and bulk strength.
Plays too upright and short-armed. Does not
play with power or strength and too easily gets
controlled. Legs go dead on contact. Struggles to
sustain and falls off blocks. Needs to learn how
to finish and play with more aggression.
Summary: Soft positional blocker who should
have stayed in school. Could compete for a roster spot.

OLT SAM

BAKER

(6-458, 309, 5.2e) USC

SPORTPICS

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

74

Branden Albert

l VIRGINIA

trap and is very light on his feet. Can adjust on


the second and third levels and fit on linebackers
or defensive backs. Effective cut blocker. Strong
down blocker. Is versatile and lined up at left
tackle for two games and showed improvement
from one week to the next. Well-respected, twotime team captain. Only played two years of
high school and has a high ceiling.
Negatives: Plays too upright and can lose
leverage. Will take some plays off and can do a
better job of sustaining. Could improve weightroom strength and get stronger. Footwork in pass
sets could use refinement. Does not generate a
lot of movement off the ball. Could play more
stout inside and could do a better job of keeping
his hands inside.
Summary: Has a rare blend of size and athleticism and has shown the ability to play at
either left guard or tackle. Overall versatility and
upside could drive up his value, especially for
teams who have stacked him on the outside. Is
still fairly raw but could dominate if he continues to get stronger and becomes more of a technician. Most natural position could wind up
being left tackle.

ORG L.J.

ANDERSON (Junior)

(6-3, 295, 5.3 E) CENTRAL FLORIDA

Notes: Redshirted in 2004. Did not play in the


05 season opener at South Carolina, then started the last 12 games at right guard. Appeared in
all 12 contests in 06, starting 10 games at right
guard. Appeared in 12-of-14 games in 07, starting 11 times at right guard. Started the first
seven games then did not play due to a coachs
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Notes: Father, David, is the commissioner of


the Arena Football League and formerly played
basketball professionally in Europe. Brother,
Ben, was an offensive lineman at Duke. Sam
also competed in track as a prep. Redshirted in
2003. Kicked outside from offensive guard to
left tackle and started all 13 games in 04. Started all 26 games at left tackle over the next two
seasons. Underwent arthroscopic surgery to
remove loose cartilage in his left knee prior to
spring of 07. Started 10 games at left tackle in
07 after missing three contests with a strained
hamstring. Named three-time first-team AllAmerican while at USC, only the third Trojan
ever to do so (joining Richard Wood and Matt
Leinart). Surrendered just one sack in his college
career. Did not work out at the Combine due to
a left MCL sprain.
Positives: Naturally athletic and plays with
balance. Can steer and control defenders. Shows
the agility to run downfield and pick up secondand third-level defenders. Quick and agile.
Maintains good positioning and can mirror his
man. Solid technician. Will run his feet on contact. Sets quickly in pass protection and can cut
off the rush. Runs defenders wide of the pocket.
Good enough anchor strength. Can pull and
strike a moving target. Very competitive. Solid
character.
Negatives: Has short arms and does not play
with great leverage. Too passive. Not a great
bender. Uses too much finesse. Not a glass-eater.
Does not attempt to bury defenders. Does not
generate a lot of movement. Can be driven into
the hole. Not physical or aggressive. Does not
play strong or explosive. Can be beaten off the
snap.
Summary: May not be as physical, longarmed or powerful as teams desire, but he has
been a four-year starter, does not get beat a lot
and generally finds a way to get the job done. A
big, finesse, passive pass protector, Baker has
been a model of consistency on the left side. Will
never be great in the run game but will start 10
years in the league and be solid.

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ORG-ORT KIRK

BARTON

(6-438, 310, 5.3e) OHIO STATE

Notes: Father played football at Ohio University. Kirk also lettered in basketball as a prep and
would like to teach and coach following his football career. Redshirted in 2003 and suffered a
left shoulder injury in practice that required
surgery. In 04 spring practice, he was unable to
compete for a job while recovering from surgery.
Eventually started the final 7-of-12 games at the
ORT spot, overtaking incumbent Tim Schafer.
Started 7-of-9 games in which he played in 05,
missing three contests with a right anterior cruciate ligament tear suffered against Penn State.
In 06, started all 13 games. A team captain in
07, he started all 13 games again at right tackle.
Did not work out at the Combine after having his
right knee scoped.
Positives: Very well-built with good musculature, a flat stomach and long arms. Looks like he
was weaned on a weight-lifting machine. Plays
alert and senses the blitz. Can slide, shuffle and
sustain. Good worker. Football is very important
to him. Vocal team captain and leader.
Negatives: Too tightly wound. Plays straightlegged and spends too much time on the ground.
Average athlete. Bends at the waist and struggles
to handle speed. Lacks lower-body strength and
struggles to anchor. Marginal foot quickness.
Does not play with balance. Not a finisher.
Struggles to convert his weight-room strength to
the field and lacks functional playing strength
and power. Too top-heavy. Moves like he is
attached to a trailer hitch and takes time to get
started. Not confident.
Summary: Has a chiseled physique and looks
the part. The game is very important to him, he
will do everything he can to improve and does
compete hard. However, he lacks the foot quickness, athleticism and finishing strength desired
on the right side and likely projects to right
guard, where he has help on each side. Is smart
enough to adjust to the stunts, games and movement that occurs faster inside.

OLT DEMETRIUS

BELL

(6-5, 303, 5.29) NORTHWESTERN STATE (LA.)

Notes: Biological father, Karl Malone, played


19 seasons in the NBA but had no contact with
him growing up. Demetrius lettered in basketball as a prep. High school did not have a football team. Enrolled at Northwestern State and
exclusively played basketball from 2003-04 and
played both sports from 2005-06. Did not play
basketball in 07 to concentrate on the NFL. On
the gridiron, he tried out for and made the football team as a defensive end in 05, playing one
game and securing 11 tackles and one-half tackle for loss. Moved to offensive left tackle and
started all 11 games in 06. He started all 11
games at the same spot in 07.
Positives: Has a frame to grow into. Shows
good foot quickness, agility and balance. Pos-

sesses natural athleticism to move and work in


space. Has athletic bloodlines.
Negatives: Only bench-pressed 225 nine
times at the Combine and plays very soft. Highhipped, narrow-waisted and built like a basketball player. Lacks bulk. Too angular. Plays too
upright. Struggles to hit a moving target and
redirect. Plays too small. Not instinctive or
aware. Shows marginal strength and power.
Does not play with leverage and gets walked to
the quarterback.
Summary: A tall, linear, underpowered blocker who will always have problems with leverage
because of how upright and narrow-based he
plays. Still very raw mentally and physically but
has developmental potential. Would be best in a
finesse zone scheme.

OT HEATH

BENEDICT

(6-478, 326, 5.09) NEWBERRY (S.C.)

Notes: Also lettered in baseball, basketball


and soccer as a prep. Attended Tennessee and
redshirted in 2002. Underwent arthroscopic
right elbow surgery and did not play in 03.
Transferred to Newberry in 04 and started all 11
games at right tackle. Started 6-of-8 games in
which he played in 05. Started all 12 games in
06 and was presented the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the conferences top offensive lineman.
Started the first eight games in 07, but missed
the final three games after injuring his right
ankle.
Positives: Good weight-room numbers.
Moves well in a straight line and shows the ability to work to the second level.
Negatives: Plays too soft. Inconsistent footwork crosses his feet and can be bulled.
Lacks lower-body strength and mass and struggles to anchor. Has faced marginal Division II
competition and struggled against it. Not physically or mentally tough. Not initially quick or
sudden out of his stance. Has been coddled
thoughout college and does not respond well to
hard coaching. Has been dinged up throughout
his career and durability could be a concern.
Summary: Self-made, manufactured, whitecollar workout warrior who looked overwhelmed and overmatched at the Senior Bowl
and did not stand out vs. average competition.
Looks like a solid prospect on paper but is a
marginal player on tape. Much more bust than
boom.

OLG MACKENZY

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BERNADEAU

(6-334, 292, 5.32) BENTLEY COLLEGE (MASS.)

Notes: Also lettered in track and basketball as


a prep. Started all 11 games at left tackle as a
true freshman in 2004 and all 10 in 05, when he
earned All-Northeast 10 first-team honors.
Moved to the OLG spot in 06 and earned
Offensive Lineman of the Year recognition.
Started the first six games at left guard in 07
before a knee injury suffered against C.W. Post
sidelined him for the year. Two-time elected
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team captain.
Positives: Has a big, solid frame and very big
hands. Moves well and plays with natural bend.
Has quick feet. Can pull and adjust in space.
Shows the ability to recover and can slide and cut
off the rush. Shows enough anchor strength to hold
his ground in pass protection. Plays with awareness. Versatile and has lined up at left tackle.
Negatives: Lacks functional playing strength
and does not consistently dominate the way he
should against Division II competition. Not
explosive driving defenders off the ball. Too
much of a catcher. Does not use his hands very
well. Has short arms for the OT position.
Summary: A versatile small-school prospect
who looks the part and has the physical tools to
compete for a starting job if he can stay healthy.

ORT-ORG JAMES

BLAIR

(6-3, 323, 5.32) WESTERN MICHIGAN

Notes: Redshirted in 2003 and converted from


defensive tackle to offensive tackle. Appeared in
nine games as a reserve in 04. Started 5-of-10
games in which he played in 05. Broke his right
foot in the summer but was ready to play in time
for the season. Started 10-of-13 games in 06 at
right tackle, missing two contests with a broken
left hand. He returned to form in 07, starting all
12 games at right tackle.
Positives: Has sheer mass and raw, natural
strength to stand his ground and hold the fort.
Does not look to start fights but will finish them
and shows some nastiness. Flashes pop and
power in his hands. Can knock defenders off the
ball. Good anchor strength. Very tough.
Negatives: Limited short-area explosion and
lateral quickness to shuffle and slide. Struggles
to recover if he gets out of position. Lunges,
overextends and is susceptible to inside moves.
Can be late to counter and react to movement
and reach a moving target.
Summary: Has the size, strength and football
temperament to contribute on the inside, but
could be challenged on the perimeter.

ORG-ORT SHANNON

BOATMAN

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-558, 316, 5.25e) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Enrolled at Tyler (Texas) Junior College in 2003 and redshirted. Started all 11 games
in 04 and again in 05 and was highly recruited
after earning junior-college All-America honors.
Transferred to Florida State in 06 and started
12-of-13 games at right tackle, missing the
North Carolina State game with a bruised right
shin. He played in all 13 games in 07, starting
10: six at right tackle, four at right guard.
Positives: Naturally strong and well-proportioned with good arm length. Is athletic enough
to move his feet and mirror his man. Flashes
some pop in his punch. Shows enough lead in
his pants to hold his ground.
Negatives: Does not use his hands well or
play physical. Marginal footwork. Lacks functional playing strength. Needs to learn how to
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finish blocks and play with more intensity. Not


instinctive and does not play with awareness.
Summary: Developmental project with
enough size, athleticism and strength to consider developing.

OG JOHN

BOOKER

(6-358, 311, 5.45e) SAN JOSE STATE

Notes: Also lettered in track and field in high


school. Started the final 3-of-9 games in which
he played at left guard as a true freshman in
2004. Moved to right guard and started all 24
games over the next two seasons. Moved to tackle in 07, where he started the first game on the
left side, then missed the second game with an
upper-body injury before coming back to start
the next nine. In the 10th game, which was
Senior Night, Booker, a captain, gave up his
right to start in favor of a teammate who had
been a reserve all season.
Positives: Good overall mass. Has some versatility has lined up at tackle and guard. Has
long arms and big hands. Good weight-room
strength. Smart and has a feel for the game.
Tough. Flashes good punch strength. Solid character. Very durable.
Negatives: Does not play with any pop or
power. Average foot quickness and lateral agility to slide and cut off the rush. Not a finisher. Is
late to reach the second level and get down the
field. Lunges, overextends and bends at the waist
too much.
Summary: Try-hard, limited athlete with
enough size, strength, smarts and strength of
character to compete for a job. Only chance will
come in a phone booth, where he is not asked to
go very far.

OT DUANE

BROWN

(6-418, 315, 5.09) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted as a tight end in 2003. Appeared in
all 13 games in 04, catching three passes for 64
yards (21.3-yard average) and a touchdown.
Converted to right tackle two weeks prior to the
05 season opener and started all 13 games.
Started all 13 games in 06. Moved to left tackle
in 07 and started all 14 games.
Positives: Very naturally athletic with long
arms and some straight-line speed and quickness. Can bend at his knees, slide his feet and
play with balance in his feet (even if he does not
consistently do it). Can pull and get out to the
second level.
Negatives: Plays soft with no pop or power.
Not stout. Lacks strength. Takes poor angles and
consistently struggled with edge speed. Marginal technician too often opens his shoulders
and gets beaten across his face. Bends at the
waist, gets overextended, leans and pushes. Carries his hands too low and does not strike with
authority. Is late off the ball and late to redirect.
Not instinctive or aware. Really struggled vs.
better competition (see LSU and Clemson).

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Plays tall and drags his feet. Needs to spend
more time in the weight room.
Summary: An athletic converted tight end
who stood out at the East-West Shrine game and
the Combine for his natural athleticism and
physical tools and convinced evaluators that he
has the natural bend, arm length and foot quickness to develop into a solid left tackle if he can
learn how to play the game. However, he is raw,
comes from a program that has graduated few
OL prospects to the NFL and will need a lot of
coaching before he is ready to play with the big
boys.

OG KERRY

BROWN

(6-538, 305, 5.24) APPALACHIAN STATE

Notes: Father played basketball at Georgia


Tech. Kerry placed fourth in the Georgia state
shotput championship as a prep. Started 4-of-8
games in which he played as a true freshman in
2004 at left guard. Started all 15 games at left
guard over each of the next three seasons, winning the Jacobs Trophy (Southern Conference
Offensive Lineman of the Year) as a junior and
Football Championship Series (Division I-AA)
All-America first-team honors (media) as a
senior.
Positives: Has good movement skills and can
work to the second level and fit on linebackers.
Plays hard and competes. Flashes good strength
and plays on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Good downfield blocker can eliminate
multiple defenders down the field in space and
has good agility to lead out in front of screens.
Stood out vs. Michigan and performed well
against better competition.
Negatives: Could do a better job of sustaining
on the second level. Short-armed. Can be tossed
around and needs to keep his shoulders squared
to the line in pass protection. Could play with a
wider base and better balance. Can be moody
and lose concentration too easily.
Summary: Inconsistent performer who flashes
the quickness, power and pulling ability to fit in
a zone-blocking scheme.

OG-OT GLENN DIGGER

BUJNOCH

(6-418, 287, 5.16) CINCINNATI

Notes: Last name pronounced Booj-knock.


Nicknamed Digger when he was young
because of his size-18 feet. Father, Glenn
Bujnoch Sr., was selected in the second round of
the 1976 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals,
spending nine seasons with Cincinnati (197682) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1983-84).
Glenn Jr. redshirted in 2003 as a 250-pound
tackle. Converted from right tackle to tight end
in 04 as an injury replacement and worked as a
blocker in two-TE sets in all 12 games, starting
against Army and South Florida. Started the first
seven games at right tackle in 05 but was
derailed for three games by a high right ankle
sprain. Returned for the season finale.
Reclaimed the ORT spot in 06, starting all 13

games. Moved to left tackle in 07, where he


started all 13 games.
Positives: Smart and hardworking. Plays with
awareness and sees the blitz. Moves well enough
to mirror his man in pass protection. Has NFL
bloodlines.
Negatives: Has short arms and has struggled
to add bulk. Does not play with any power and
struggles to match up against size. Bends at the
waist and falls off blocks. Does not finish
blocks.
Summary: Underpowered, wall-off blocker
with the intelligence, work habits and grit to
compete for a job. Lacks the arm length ideal for
the edges and the power desired inside. Could
warrant a shot at center if he gets stronger.

C-OG BRENNEN

CARVALHO

(6-034, 318, 5.15e) PORTLAND STATE

Notes: Released from his redshirt six games


into the 2004 season due to injuries along the
offensive line and started the final six games at
left guard. Started all 11 games in 05 at left
guard. Started all 11 games again at left guard in
06. Moved to center in the spring of 07 and
started all 11 games there.
Positives: Plays with natural leverage. Shows
the quickness to pull and trap and work to the
second level. Can work an edge, swing his hips
around and wall off defenders. Plays on his feet
with fine balance. Tough and feisty. Good
weight-room strength. Very durable. Good work
ethic.
Negatives: Too short. Has faced marginal
competition. Lacks anchor strength. Average
athlete. Plays short-armed and lets defenders
into his body. Does not play with power.
Summary: Lack of height and arm length
could always be factors, possibly limiting him to
backing up at only one position and making it
difficult to hold a roster spot. Toughness and
work habits could give him a chance.

OT GOSDER

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

3/5/08

CHERILUS

(6-638, 314, 5.19) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Born in Haiti and moved to the United


States when he was 14. Also lettered in basketball and track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003.
Started every game at right tackle in 04, 05 and
06, starting 37 consecutive games. Moved to the
OLT position in the spring of 07 after James
Marten graduated. Elected team captain in the
spring. Started all 14 games in 07, setting a
school record for consecutive starts with 51. Was
cited in a police report after breaking up a fight
in a Boston sports bar on July 1, 2007, when
published reports say he carried a participant to
the exit and asked him to leave. Was cleared of
any wrongdoing.
Positives: Has incredibly long 3614-inch arms
and monster 1134-inch hands. Is built to play
with power and shows the ability to finish run
blocks and collapse defenders. Can cling to and
eliminate defenders once he gets his massive
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Gosder Cherilus

l BOSTON COLLEGE

hands on them. Shows the agility to pull and


work up the field. Has an edge and flashes a
mean streak. Practices hard and takes the game
seriously.
Negatives: Struggled with the transition to the
left side as a senior. Will panic with new information and can take too long to process and
react to movement. Looked overwhelmed and
unaware against the blitz. Not a great knee bender and does not show great lateral agility. Often
blocks out of a two-point stance and will play
too tall. Does not finish consistently. Will cross
his feet against upfield pass rushers and footwork is unrefined.
Summary: Will need to learn how to kickslide
and will require some patience on the left side,
but has all the physical ability to play on either
side once he becomes more comfortable with his
footwork and technique. Can start at right tackle
from Day One and develop into a great pro once
he gets acclimated with the playbook. Has
played in man- and zone-blocking schemes and
looked best coming off the ball flat-backed and
driving defenders off the ball from the right side
as a junior.

OT RYAN

CLADY (Junior)

(6-618, 309, 5.1e) BOISE STATE

Notes: Recruited very lightly as a defensive


tackle out of high school. Redshirted in 2004.
Moved to right tackle in 05 and started 11-of-13
games. Moved to left tackle in 06 and started all
13 games. Started all 13 games at left tackle in
07 for the second straight year. Strained a pectoral muscle at the Combine and did not comw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

plete his workouts.


Positives: Has rare arm length 3634 inches.
Very naturally athletic and light on his feet.
Quick to kickslide. Outstanding movement
skills. Sets quickly in pass protection. Shows
good footwork, impressive balance and natural
knee bend. Quick enough to hook defensive
ends. Plays with some pop and shows good
upper-body strength to latch on and lock out.
Flashes some nastiness. Can mirror defenders
and recover easily against counter moves. Has a
giant wingspan and has shown enough strength
to pick off two defenders. Very agile working to
the second level. Has the frame to bulk up and
carry more weight.
Negatives: Has not consistently faced elite
competition in the Western Athletic Conference
and struggled some vs. better opponents. Plays
with too much finesse. Not powerful or overly
physical. Can be late out of his stance and struggle to handle the wide rush. Can do a better job
of handling stunts and helping with an inside
punch. Could improve anchor strength to better
handle power. Still growing into his body.
Immature and will need to be managed closely.
Summary: Started the season very slowly and
showed gradual improvement throughout the
year. Will need to spend more time in the weight
room and get stronger. However, he is very natural in his movement and the game looks easy
for him. A converted defensive tackle with a ton
of untapped potential, Clady possesses exceptional athletic ability, foot quickness and arm
length to effortlessly recover and could easily
overcome his lack of natural instincts for the
position because he is so physically gifted. Must
stay focused to become great.

ORG-ORT

COREY CLARK

(6-538, 310, 5.36) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in four


games at strong-side tackle in 04. Started all 37
games at strong-side tackle over his last three
seasons.
Positives: Good mass. Can lean on defenders
and seal off running lanes. Good work ethic.
Competes hard.
Negatives: Limited athletically. Heavy-footed. Average technician. Does not play with any
explosion or knock anyone off the ball. Lacks
functional strength. Lets his hands go high and
wide of the target and needs to do a better job of
keeping them inside and learning to control
defenders. Struggles with speed and quickness.
Does not play tough or nasty.
Summary: Good-sized, short-area zone blocker whose best chance in the pros could come
from moving inside.

ORG-ORT DEVIN

CLARK

(6-358, 305, 5.37) NEW MEXICO

Notes: Placed fourth in the 2006 National


Junior Weightlifting Championships in the plus105-kilogram weight class. Attended Scottsdale

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Ryan Clady

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l BOISE STATE

(Ariz.) Community College from 2004-05.


Transferred to New Mexico in the summer of
06 and qualified academically in the fall, starting the final 12-of-13 games at right tackle and
forcing Robert Turner back to right guard.
Missed 07 spring practice after suffering a
severe ankle sprain that required surgery to stabilize the joint. Returned to full health for the
07 season and started 12-of-13 games at right
tackle, not starting vs. Sacramento State early in
the season.
Positives: Very good overall size and body
mass. Very good weight-room strength. Is tough
and plays through injuries.
Negatives: Has a bad body with no lead in his
pants. Lacks lower-body strength, struggles to
anchor and spends too much time on the ground.
Generates no push. Struggles with quick counter
moves. Uses too much finesse. Catches more
than he strikes. Does not come off the ball with
any force. Struggles to redirect. Could need
some extra reps to grasp an offense.
Summary: Big, naturally strong, short-area

zone blocker with a chance to compete for a job.

C MARCUS

COLEMAN

(6-5, 298, 5.35e) WISCONSIN

Notes: Father, Roger, played football at Illinois (1973-75). Also lettered in basketball,
wrestling and track and field as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in five games in 04. Started 1-of-12 games in 05 at left guard. Started all
13 games in 06 at center. Started all 14 games at
center in 07. Has experienced patellar subluxation in both knees.
Positives: Good size and competitiveness.
Works well in tandems. Can anchor and hold
ground. Versatile and has played guard and center. Tough.
Negatives: Does not play strong or physical.
Lacks weight-room strength and functional play
strength. Struggles with quickness and speed
and lets blitzers leak through the line. Has two
bad knees, which affects his conditioning. Limited upside.
Summary: Overall durability could limit
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chances, but he does possess enough size, versatility and toughness to warrant a look if he passes medically.

OLT ANTHONY

COLLINS (Junior)

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-5, 317, 5.56) KANSAS

Notes: Redshirted in 2004, where he worked


as a member of the scout team defense before
being moved to the offensive side of the ball
prior to the 05 season. Played in eight games,
starting one, on the offensive line in 05. In 06,
he started all 12 games at right tackle. Moved to
left tackle in the spring of 07 and started 11-of12 games at the OLT spot in the fall, missing the
first series of the Toledo game due to disciplinary reasons and missing the Iowa State game
with a right ankle sprain.
Positives: Shows some snap on contact and
looks to roll his hips. Can knock his man off
stride, maul and lock up defenders. Flashes
some nastiness. Naturally athletic with long
arms. Can get into blocks and seal defenders.
Shows above-average recovery ability. Plays
with balance, is generally on his feet and shows
the ability to anchor.
Negatives: Not physically dominant and does
not finish many blocks. Plays too tall. Lacks
great foot quickness on his kickslide and cutting
off the rush. Inconsistent footwork. Too often
lunges, overextends and falls off blocks. Too
tight in the hips. Plays too upright, easily loses
leverage and struggles to sustain. Struggles with
inside counter moves, twists and stunts. Does
not show great awareness against the blitz and
will let defenders run by him untouched. Lacks
pop in his punch. Not an explosive drive blocker
and generates little movement in the run game.
Struggles to sustain. Immature, egotistical and
has an inflated opinion of his ability.
Summary: Is more easily slipped in the run
game than the pass and plays with enough
toughness and competitiveness to battle. Could
have benefited from another year in school
needs to mature. Combine workout was very
average.

OG ONIEL

COUSINS

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-334, 308, 5.17) UTEP

Notes: Also lettered in basketball. Redshirted


as a defensive tackle in 2003. Limited to two
games in 04 by a broken wrist. Converted to
offensive tackle in 05 and appeared in eight
games. Started the first 8-of-12 games at left
tackle in 06, missing the final four contests
because of a wrist injury. Moved back to the
right side and won the ORT job in camp, starting
all 12 games there in 07.
Positives: Natural athlete with a giant frame
and very long arms. Shows the strength to battle
and compete and flashes the ability to dominate
vs. lesser competition. Can steer defenders once
he gets his hands on them. Is loaded with upside.
Negatives: Does not play strong and could do
a better job of finishing blocks. Very raw. Turns
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

his shoulders, swings his hips and opens the gate


too often. Could have a difficult time adjusting
to a new playbook. Did not begin playing football until his sophomore year of high school, and
his instincts for the game are very green. Could
struggle mentally to handle the speed of the pro
game on the left side.
Summary: Raw, athletic, long-armed prospect
who has the upside to develop but has yet to
show the overall consistency desired and was
benched for not being able to handle six protections as a junior. Has the physical tools to play
on either side, but still could use another year of
grooming before he is ready.

OG-C ANDREW

CRUMMEY

(6-458, 2999, 5.41) MARYLAND

Notes: Also lettered in wrestling and track in


high school. Redshirted in 2003. Started 5-of-10
games in which he played at right guard in 04
and started all 11 games in 05. Started all 12
games in which he played in 06, missing the
Middle Tennessee State contest with a strained
left hamstring. Sat out much of the spring with
an ankle injury. Started the first six games of 07
at right guard, but suffered a broken left fibula
and missed five games in the middle of the season, returning to start the final two games.
Positives: Has a thick lower body with good
weight-room strength. Shows the ability to
anchor. Solid run blocker. Takes good angles on
the second level and can eliminate linebackers.
Uses his hands well to steer and control defenders. Very smart. Sees the blitz.
Negatives: Average athlete with marginal foot
quickness and agility. Not a natural bender or
fluid mover. Plays too tall. Does not show great
functional strength and gets stood up too much.
Gives up ground in pass protection. Could add
bulk and do a better job of sinking his hips. Too
tightly wound. Not a powerful puncher. Could
do a better job of finishing blocks. Is coming off
injury.
Summary: Returned from injury to perform in
the East-West Shrine game and has some versatility, but he did not stand out in the game or
work out at the Combine because of a left ankle
injury and needs to return to full health. Not
quick or flashy but is efficient in a phone booth
and usually gets the job done.

C KYLE

DeVAN

(6-114, 301, 5.3e) OREGON STATE

Notes: Also lettered in wrestling, compiling a


39-1 record as a high school senior en route to
the California state 275-pound title and served
as class president his sophomore year. Redshirted in 2003 and saw action in all 12 games in 04.
Started all 38 games at center over the next three
seasons.
Positives: Gets into blocks and can pull in
space. Can play with leverage. Is smart and
aware.
Negatives: Has short arms, slow hands and

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marginal foot quickness. Does not play with
twitch or any pop or strength. Struggles to hit a
moving target. Too stiff and overly tight. Not
physical. Struggles to sustain. Does not finish.
Not naturally big, lacks girth and struggles to
hold weight.
Summary: Has very questionable athleticism
and arm length to compete in the pros.

OG-OT FRANKLIN

DUNBAR (Junior)

(6-434, 327, 5.64) MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Notes: Voted Georgia Class 4A all-state as a


senior after leading high school team to a state
title. Sat out as a freshman in 2004 due to NCAA
academic requirements. Played in all 11 games
in 05, starting the last five. Was the only Blue
Raiders offensive lineman to play and start all 13
games in 06. Entered the season as the starting
left tackle after a solid spring and kept his job
throughout. Started all 12 games at left tackle in
07 and earned All-Sun Belt Conference firstteam honors.
Positives: Fared well vs. Virginia DE Chris
Long when matched up against him. Has very
long arms. Shows enough size, athleticism and
strength.
Negatives: Has a bad body with a soft build
has too much baby fat. Very soft in the upper
body. Plays too inconsistently. Not aggressive
and does not play with strength or show any
thump as a run blocker to knock defenders off
the ball.
Summary: Declared for the draft early for
financial reasons to support his sick mother, but
could have benefited from another year in
school. Has some raw physical ability that cannot be taught, but lack of foot quickness could
force him to move inside.

OLT KING

DUNLAP

(6-812, 310, 5.28) AUBURN

Notes: Has two children. Father, King IV,


played football at Tennessee State and was taken
in the fifth round of the 1969 NFL draft by the
Baltimore Colts. King V redshirted in 2003.
Played in 13 games in 04, mostly on special
teams. Started 1-of-11 games in 05 at left tackle. Started all 13 games in 06 at left tackle.
Started the first three games in 07 at left tackle,
but an elbow injury sidelined him for the next
two. He then lost his spot to true freshman Ryan
Pugh, who was injured two games later, forcing
Dunlap back into the starting lineup for the next
three contests. When Pugh returned to health, he
reclaimed his spot, even though Dunlap was the
lone senior offensive lineman. Dunlap ended up
starting 6-of-10 games in which he played in
07.
Positives: Has an enormous frame with long
3512-inch arms and looks the part. Naturally
strong and athletic. Has good foot quickness.
Very agile for his size. Can effortlessly mirror
defenders in pass protection. Has rare wingspan
and reach and can easily steer and control

defenders and recover with his length. Good balance and body coordination. Can adjust to moving targets in space. Has the mental aptitude to
learn quickly.
Negatives: Not a naileater. Plays too soft. Not
physically or mentally tough. Too content just
getting by and has not figured out what it means
to work. Does not play strong or physical and
gets controlled too easily. Soft puncher. Plays
too upright and bends at the waist. Struggles to
handle power and can be walked back and outmuscled. Not a finisher. Hand placement and
footwork tend to be lazy.
Summary: Mountain of a man who could not
sustain his starting job as a senior and must
answer questions about his toughness and
desire. Has the raw physical traits to still warrant
considerable interest and could be a solid backup but has not been consistent enough to seriously consider despite very impressive physical
stature. Pulled his right hamstring while working
out at the Combine and questions remain about
his overall passion and toughness to play in the
trenches. Must show that he is willing to pay the
price to compete.

ORG-ORT ROBERT

FELTON

(6-358, 315, 5.54) ARKANSAS

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Started the final 5of-9 games in which he played in 04 at left
tackle (one) and right tackle (four). Also saw
time at guard. Started all 11 games at right tackle in 05, tallying 45 knockdown blocks on the
season. Moved back to right guard in the spring
of 06 and started 13-of-14 games after winning
the job in Week Two. Started all 12 games in 07
(10 at right guard, two at left tackle).
Positives: Has a frame to develop with long
arms. Can bend his knees and move his feet and
drive some defenders off the ball. Plays with
awareness. Shows the ability to sustain blocks.
Solid anchor in pass protection. Can sit and stop
a charge. Shows surprising strength to handle
power. Uses his hands well to strike and control
defenders. Agile enough to get to the second
level and initiate contact. Can pull and trap.
Flashes some explosion off the ball. Is versatile.
Team player.
Negatives: Has a bad body that looks like it
has never seen a weight room. Average athlete.
Takes choppy steps and does not open up his
stride. Tends to rely too much on his upper
body and does not always bring his feet. Struggles to handle speed. Will lunge and whiff.
Plays too tall and will lock his knees after contact and fall off blocks. Average body control.
Plays too out of control and struggles to hit a
moving target. Not a great worker. Lacks confidence.
Summary: Has played every position on the
line and versatility could be his greatest trait.
However, he lacks the foot quickness desired on
the edges and the athleticism desired at center.
Needs to spend more time in the weight room
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and get stronger to develop into more of a power
player.

ORG-ORT MIKE

FLADELL

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-618, 326, 5.4e) RUTGERS

Notes: Also lettered in track and field, winning the 2002 New York Public Schools Athletic
League discus championship and the indoor and
outdoor shotput championship as a prep.
Entered the program at 370 pounds and redshirted in 2003. Saw action in one game in 04. Started 3-of-11 games in which he played at left
guard in 05 as an injury replacement for Jeremy
Zuttah. Started all 13 games at left guard in 06.
Started all 13 games at left guard in 07.
Positives: Outstanding size. Has a solid frame
with very long arms and nice anchor strength in
pass protection. Naturally strong. Is alert to the
blitz and quick to recognize it. Solid worker.
Very durable.
Negatives: Average athlete. Limited foot
quickness. Too stiff and tightly wound. Does not
play with leverage and lacks pop and power.
Does not easily adjust to movement and struggles with speed.
Summary: A big, strong foot-pounder who
lined up inside in college but projects best to
right tackle in the pros, where he could better
use his long arms and anchor strength to lock out
and protect the edge. However, he does not have
the foot quickness desired in a front-line player.

ORT NATE GARNER


(6-618, 334, 5.5e) ARKANSAS

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in five


games in 04. Saw action in all 11 games in 05
on special teams and as a reserve right tackle.
Started 1-of-8 games in which he played in 06
at right guard, but lost his starting job to Robert
Felton following the season opener and played
strictly as a reserve. Kicked outside and started
all 13 games in 07 at right tackle.
Positives: Has outstanding size. Plays with
strength and can control defenders. Works to the
whistle and tries to finish blocks.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Too stiff
and tightly wound. Plods in space. Does not run
his feet consistently and spends too much time
on the ground. Does not play with much bend or
leverage. Heavy-footed and slow to redirect.
Summary: Came on strong down the stretch
and showed improvement late in the year. Could
warrant developing.

ORT BRENO

GIACOMINI

(6-718, 303, 5.24) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Saw action in 12 games as a true freshman in 2004
at tight end and offensive tackle. In 05, appeared
exclusively at tight end and tallied three receptions for 16 yards (5.3-yard average) and one
touchdown. Started 2-of-13 games in 06, opening
at left tackle against Kansas State and Middle
Tennessee State and also backing up throughout
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the season at tight end. Started all 12 games at


right tackle in 07. Was disciplined by the team
after flipping off the Kentucky crowd prior to the
Cardinals game against their intrastate rival.
Positives: Has a frame to bulk up and get
stronger. Shows some strength and the agility to
shuffle and slide in pass protection. Is quick into
blocks and moves well for his size. Flashes some
nastiness. Competes hard and takes the game
seriously. Very good worker. Team player.
Responds to hard coaching.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Very limited pop and explosion. Narrow-framed and
needs to add bulk and get stronger, especially in
the upper body. Lacks in-line anchor strength.
Falls off blocks and is on the ground a lot. Average arm length for as tall as he is. Has a tendency to rise out of his stance and play too tall. Is
late to reach second-level defenders.
Summary: Raw developmental project who
lacks the arm length, anchor strength, power and
leverage ideal for the front line, but did move
around well and appear athletic at the Combine
and has some upside.

ORT-OLG MIKE

GIBSON

(6-312, 305, 5.31) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Two-time All-League first-teamer at


Solano Community College (Calif.). Enrolled at
Berkeley prior to the 2006 season and was a
backup right tackle to starter Scott Smith. Started 9-of-13 games after Smith went down with an
injury. Played his entire junior season with a left
shoulder injury suffered in fall camp. Had
surgery following the season and was very limited in the spring. Started 12 games in 07, missing the Armed Forces Bowl with a concussion.
Positives: Shows some snap off the ball as a
run blocker and will shoot his hands and get into
blocks. Is strong, can get in the way, latch on and
sustain in-line. Good strength. Good worker.
Has a passion for the game. Tough and will play
through injuries. Will look to finish blocks.
Negatives: Has a soft build. Marginal footwork used shuffle-and-slide technique
instead of kicksliding to cut off the rush. Lunges
and falls off too many blocks. Was exposed in
one-on-one drills at the East-West Shrine game,
struggling to handle speed and quickness and
did not look as natural inside. Lacks secondlevel quickness to cut off linebackers. Poor footwork. Plays too narrow-based, lunges and winds
up on the ground a lot more than he should.
Summary: Overmatched college left tackle
who could project inside or to right tackle in the
pros. Is not an elite athlete for the OLT position
and will need to correct his footwork to stay on
an island. Could be best inside, even though he
struggled there at the East-West Shrine game.

ORG-ORT JOHN

GRECO

(6-434, 305, 5.34) TOLEDO

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Started all 13 games at right

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tackle in 04. Started all 38 games at the OLT
spot over the next three seasons.
Positives: Has a thick, square-cut body.
Shows good strength when he latches onto
defenders. Good hand strength. Solid technician.
Shows power and pop in his punch. Is tough and
shows a second surge in the run game. Solid
drive blocker. Good body strength. Excellent
worker. Smart, passionate and very durable.
Negatives: Has short arms, is limited athletically and lacks the foot speed to handle the edge.
Does not follow up his initial punch. Feet cannot
keep up with his hands. Struggles to get his
hands on defenders before they get their hands
on him. Struggles to anchor. Lunges too much
and winds up on the ground. Lets average pass
rushers run the circle and struggles to move his
feet and cut them off. Gets caught oversetting
because of his lack of foot quickness and leaves
the inside vulnerable. Plays too upright. Too
heavy-legged. Struggles to hit a moving target.
Summary: Impressed scouts more at the EastWest Shrine game than he did on Toledo tape
and has been a strong postseason performer who
has elevated his status to the middle rounds.
Lack of arm length and great athleticism could
always preclude him from playing on the left
side, but he could be very functional inside or at
right tackle because of his toughness, balance
and strength.

OT DAVID

HALE

(6-534, 314, 5.29) WEBER STATE

Notes: Married. Sat out as a partial qualifier


in 2001. Was on a mission from 2002-03.
Returned to school in 04 and started 8-of-9
games in which he played at right tackle. Started all 33 games at the ORT spot over the next
three seasons (2005-07), earning first-team
(coaches) All-Big Sky honors as a junior despite
playing with a herniated disk.
Positives: Good size and agility. Can slide and
shadow his man. Competes hard and plays to the
whistle. Flashes pop and power. Solid work
ethic.
Negatives: Plays too upright and rigid and is
not a natural bender. Lacks lower-body strength
and could do a better job of anchoring. Not a
great finisher. Is overaged and injury history
could affect draft status.
Summary: Stood out at the Football Championship Series (Division I-AA) level and competed at the East-West Shrine game, but he plays
too rigid and stiff and could always be limited by
a back injury.

OT TONY

HILLS

(6-518, 309, 5.3e) TEXAS

Notes: Parade All-America tight end caught


15 passes for 275 yards (18.3-yard average) as a
high school senior before suffering a serious
knee injury in the Texas state semifinals. Tore the
lateral collateral ligament in his left knee and
also damaged the peroneal nerve, resulting in a

complete loss of feeling in the left foot. Had to


use a wheelchair on his recruiting trip to Texas
and was told by doctors that this condition
known as drop foot might prevent him from
walking normally again. Was not able to move
his left foot after an initial surgery but finally
regained feeling after a second surgery. Did not
enroll at Texas in 2003, but instead spent the year
rehabbing. Finally enrolled in 04 and converted
from tight end to offensive tackle. Appeared in
seven games at left tackle, backing up Detroit
Lions 2006 fifth-round pick Jonathan Scott. Saw
action in 11-of-13 games in 05, missing the
Missouri and Oklahoma contests with an elbow
injury. Started all 13 games at left tackle in 06.
Started the first 11 games in 07, missing the
final two because of left fibula fracture on Nov.
10. Did not work out at the Combine.
Positives: Natural bender. Has some natural
athleticism and body length. Can motor when he
gets out in space and pulls. Plays with nice balance.
Negatives: Plays with too much finesse. Does
not play with explosiveness, leverage or power
and struggles to anchor vs. mass. Shows little
body strength. Durability needs to be examined
closely has had a career-threatening drop foot
condition in high school that nearly ended his
career, and lingering effects still show up in his
play. Does not have full motor skills in his left
foot, and at times when he sets and plants, despite
being heavily spatted, his foot cannot withstand
the pressure placed upon it and will go dead.
Summary: Durability issues could affect his
draft status and playing performance, but he has
the size, body and arm length to warrant interest
as an OLT prospect and could contribute if he
can stay healthy.

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STEVE JUSTICE

(6-338, 293, 5.27) WAKE FOREST

Notes: Also lettered in wrestling as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 11 games primarily on special teams in 04. Started all 37
games at center over the next three seasons,
earning All-Atlantic Coast Conference firstteam (Associated Press) honors in 06 and 07.
Positives: Good feet, base and balance. Can
pull and trap and work to the second level and fit
on linebackers. Very agile in space and takes
good cut-off angles. Good snap-and-step quickness. Keeps his hands inside and uses them well
to punch and recoil. Flashes a mean streak. Plays
smart. Very durable. Solid character. Has a passion for the game. Excellent work ethic. Plays
through pain.
Negatives: Not a strong or powerful run
blocker. Lacks natural girth and bulk strength.
Can be controlled by massive space-eaters. Does
not have a frame to support much more weight.
Could improve his upper-body strength. Struggles fitting up and sustaining down the field. Can
be knocked backward. Struggles to handle size
one-on-one. Does not have a lead anchor and
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teammate Chad Rinehart and has more natural
athleticism and pro potential. Could stick on the
right side as a guard or tackle.

OG ADAM

KRAUS

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-534, 295, 5.4e) MICHIGAN

Steve Justice

l WAKE FOREST

struggles to keep his feet stuck in the ground.


Summary: Would be best in a slide-protection
move scheme where he could use his clean footwork and athleticism to his strengths. Lack of
bulk and power could create some problems.

ORG-ORT BRANDON

KEITH

(6-514, 343, 5.29) NORTHERN IOWA

Notes: Highly rated player in the state of


Oklahoma as a prep. Attended Northeastern
Oklahoma A&M College in 2004 and was
named second-team NJCAA All-American.
Transferred to University of Oklahoma in 05,
but did not see action and left after the grandmother who raised him passed away. Transferred
to Northern Iowa in 06 and played in seven
games, starting twice. Missed four games with a
bone bruise in his right knee. Started the first 11
games at right tackle in 07, helping the Panthers
to a perfect 11-0 regular season and a No. 1
ranking at the Football Championship Series
level. Did not play in the last two regular-season
games as a result of a coaching decision to rest
star players. Strained his left hamstring while
running the 40 at the Combine and did not finish
his workout.
Positives: Good size with long arms and can
lock out and keep defenders at bay. Plays with
balance and is usually on his feet. Can work to
the second level and generate some movement.
Negatives: Lacks great lower-body strength.
Not a great bender. Not quick to shuffle and slide
and cut off the outside rush. Could use some extra
reps. Mental toughness has been questioned.
Summary: Stands out more than highly touted
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Notes: Also lettered in basketball. Redshirted


as a tight end in 2003. Moved to the offensive
line in 04 and played three games as a reserve
at right and left guard. Started 9-of-10 games in
which he played in 05 eight at center and one
at right guard and also saw time at left guard.
Missed the Indiana and Ohio State contests with
a shoulder injury. Started all 13 games at left
guard in 06. Started all 13 games again in 07,
the first eight at left guard, the last five at center.
Positives: Tough battler. Will play hurt. Versatile and has lined up at center and guard. Gets in
the way and can maintain positioning.
Negatives: Limited athlete. Average lateral
quickness and change of direction. Not a natural
bender. Does not play with a sense of urgency.
Not strong or powerful. Gets knocked off the
ball and struggles to anchor and sustain blocks.
Will let defenders leak through on the blitz.
Summary: Really struggled at the East-West
Shrine game, but has enough size, Big Ten experience and versatility to warrant a chance as a
utility swing backup.

C DOUG

LEGURSKY

(6-114, 323, 5.25e) MARSHALL

Notes: Set three West Virginia high school


weightlifting records and also lettered in track
and field. Played in all 12 games as a true freshman in 2004. Started all 11 games in 05 10
at center and one at right guard. Started all 12
games in 06 and all 11 in 07. Named team captain as a junior and senior.
Positives: Can get into blocks quickly and
moves well in a straight line. Keeps head on a
swivel and plays with nice instincts and sees the
blitz. Good upper-body strength. Great intangibles and work ethic. Self-motivated. Plays
through injuries.
Negatives: Has very short arms. Too topheavy and tight-hipped. Lacks lower-body
strength, plays too upright with average knee
bend and struggles to anchor when he is covered
up. Can be walked back. Struggles to strike a
moving target in space.
Summary: Flashed some strength at the Hula
Bowl, but his lack of arm strength and agility
will limit his chances.

C-OG KORY

LICHTENSTEIGER

(6-214, 298, 5.34) BOWLING GREEN

Notes: Married with one child. Also lettered


in basketball and track as a prep. Redshirted in
2003. Started all 12 games in 04 and all 11
games in 05 at guard. Started all 12 games in
06 at center. Played the last month of the season
with a left shoulder injury suffered vs. Temple
and had surgery following the season. Two-time

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team captain. Started all 13 games in 07 at center. Attended the Combine but did not lift due to
a tear in his right labrum (shoulder).
Positives: Plays with awareness. Takes sharp
angles and is effective walling off and zone
blocking. Shows the ability to pull and move in
space. Runs his feet on contact. Flashes some
nastiness and works to finish. Can stalemate
defenders at the line. Tough battles to the
whistle and keeps working to pick off defenders.
Plays hard. Gives great effort. Works well in tandem with guards. Good short-snapping ability.
Excellent character. Good work ethic. Versatile.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Not a great athlete and struggles to consistently
sustain and recover against quickness. Will struggle with speed in the pros. Can be overaggressive
and play out of control too often overextends
on the move and cannot recover. Inconsistent
hand placement hands will go high and wide
of the target. Lacks great size. Has short arms.
Summary: Is expected to be out four months
due to shoulder injury and it could affect his
draft status and availability. Not strong or overpowering and his lack of arm length could be
restricting, but he shows the instincts, balance
and enough quickness to be efficient.

OG MATTY

LINDNER

(6-312, 295, 5.25 E) TEXAS CHRISTIAN

OLT JAKE

LONG

(6-7, 313, 5.24) MICHIGAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball. Redshirted in 2003. Started the final 10
games at right tackle and also saw time at left
tackle in 04. Suffered a serious injury in 05
summer practice when two teammates fell on his
lower left leg. Underwent surgery and sat out the
first seven games. Returned to start the final 4-

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Suffered a wrist


injury in 04 and did not play. Appeared at guard

in 10-of-12 games in 05. Started all 13 games at


right (six) and left guard (seven) in 06. Tore his
anterior cruciate ligament in the Poinsettia Bowl
vs. Northern Illinois and sat out in the spring to
rehabilitate. Started all 12 games in which he
played in 07, missing the New Mexico game
with an ankle sprain.
Positives: Battles for positioning and can
latch on. Shows some pop in his hands. Plays
with some vinegar. Solid worker.
Negatives: Average athlete. Plays too light and
gets bounced around. Marginal lower-body
strength and anchor to hold his ground and generate a push. Does not play with strength or
power. Gets questionable fits on the second level.
Inconsistent hand placement. Has had a multitude of injuries and has struggled to stay healthy.
Summary: Very muscled-up, tough overachiever with the body of a professional
wrestler. His injury history could limit his
chances, but he has enough strength to warrant a
chance.

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l MICHIGAN
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of-5 games at right tackle. Dropped 20 pounds in
the offseason and improved his agility. Named
team captain and started all 13 games at left
tackle in 06 and 07 en route to Big Ten Lineman of the Year accolades both years.
Positives: Has excellent size with a flat stomach. Has been effective in a zone- or man-blocking scheme. Generates power in the run game
and can knock defenders off the ball. Very tough
and nasty. Plays with intent to hurt the opposition and can bury defenders. Comes off the ball
flat-backed and drives defenders. Very good finisher. Extremely smart, hardworking and
instinctive and has a great feel for the game. Sets
quickly in pass protection and plays alert. Has
very good anchor strength. Excellent worker.
Vocal leader.
Negatives: Does not look as effortless in pass
protection in the fourth quarter as some elite left
tackles. Could do a better job of locking out and
using his arm length to keep defenders off his
frame. Could more consistently punch and
reload. Does not show great recovery speed vs.
elite speed (see Ohio State). Can overset and be
susceptible to inside counter moves.
Summary: Proved he was a better athlete than
many expected at the Combine, when he moved
with relative ease in positional drills. Could be
most naturally suited on the right side because of
his toughness, nastiness and angry disposition.
However, he has all the athleticism he needs to
anchor the left side and become an exceptional
pro. Would be best in a base-blocking scheme
like the one the Wolverines ran as a sophomore,
when he cleared huge running lanes. A perennial Pro Bowl tackle who instantly upgrades an
offensive line.

ORG CHARLES

MANU

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-212, 304, 5.3e) NEVADA

Notes: Married and has three children.


Enrolled at Feather River College (Calif.) in
2003 and lined up at defensive end. Broke his
ankle in the first game, missed the rest of the season and was granted a medical redshirt. Moved
to nose tackle in 04 and started 10-of-11 games.
Transferred to Nevada in 05 and flipped sides of
the ball, starting the final 8-of-10 games in which
he played at right guard. Moved to strong-side
tackle and started all 13 games in 06. Started all
12 games at strong-side guard in 07.
Positives: Solid mass. Shows some strength to
lean on defenders and wall off. Can drop his
hips, anchor and hold his ground. Flashes some
strength in his hands. Has played through
injuries.
Negatives: Marginal athlete. Appears out of
shape with questionable stamina. Struggles to
move his feet and too often falls off blocks. Not
a finisher. Spends too much time on the ground.
Struggled with quickness at the East-West
Shrine game.
Summary: Heavy-footed, short-area zone
blocker with limited athleticism for the pro
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

game. Projects inside from the ORT position and


could battle for a roster spot.

OLG CHRIS

McDUFFIE

(6-418, 330, 5.2e) CLEMSON

Notes: Attended Hargrave Military Academy


(Va.) following high school. Redshirted at Clemson in 2003. Arrested in July 2004 and charged
with two felony counts possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of
marijuana with intent to distribute within proximity of a school. Was suspended from the team.
Entered pre-trial intervention program and was
reinstated and suspended for 04 season opener.
Played in 10 games as a backup defensive tackle, recording 12 tackles. In 05, saw action in 11
games on special teams and six on the offensive
side of the ball at guard and tackle. Played in all
13 games in 06 as a reserve guard, starting the
last five when OLG Roman Fry went down with
an injury. Started 11 of the 12 games in which he
played in 07 at left guard, missing the Duke
game with a left ankle sprain. Played the last few
games with a torn ligament in his left elbow and
played with a cast on his left arm in the Chickfil-A Bowl. Did not work out at the Combine
because of a left quad strain.
Positives: Has natural size, girth and strength.
Will fight and scrap in close quarters and play to
the whistle. Shows enough quickness to get to
the second level and locate defenders. Shows
solid anchor strength. Runs his feet on contact
and can create a push. Will play through injuries.
Negatives: Average arm length. Is not quick
into blocks and too often is late off the ball. Plays
too upright and could do a better job of dropping
his hips. Not a natural knee-bender and plays too
upright and hunched back, not generating much
power. Too top-heavy. Marginal punch. Lacks
discipline and needs to take the game more seriously and learn to control his weight.
Summary: Strong battler who could develop
into a solid player if he could commit himself to
the game and stay healthy.

OL MIKE

McGLYNN

(6-414, 311, 5.41) PITTSBURGH

Notes: Married. Also lettered in baseball as a


prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 8-of-12 games
at right tackle in 04. Started all 23 games at right
tackle and served as the short-snapper on field
goals and extra points in 05 and 06. Underwent
postseason surgery for a torn left labrum and sat
out 07 spring practice to recover. Moved to right
guard as a senior for the first three games but
kicked back outside to the ORT position for the
final nine after struggling outside.
Positives: Plays with aggression and shows a
mean streak. Hunts down defenders. Shows the
power to collapse defenders down-blocking. Has
an explosive punch and shocks defenders. Plays
with a street fighters mentality. Very tough and
competitive. Moves surprisingly well for his
size. Shows good awareness. Can swing his hips

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around and generally initiate contact on linebackers. Flashes the ability to reach and seal
defensive ends. Has a passion for the game. Has
played through injury. Is versatile and played
everywhere on the line. Handles short-snapping
duties.
Negatives: Has a bad body. Plays too upright.
Not a great foot athlete and can be slow to get
started. Rumbles when he runs. Struggles to
handle speed and quickness off the ball. Struggles to sustain on the second level and too often
falls off. Will lunge and lose balance.
Summary: Has the versatility to play anywhere on the line, having lined up at tackle,
guard and center. Did not have a great year on
the inside, but performed well at the East-West
Shrine game and is getting more serious looks
from teams at the center position. His toughness
will draw the interest of teams.

ORT CARLTON

MEDDER

(6-514, 316, 5.5e) FLORIDA

Notes: Threw shotput and discus as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Did not see any game action
in 04. Played in all 12 games as a reserve offensive lineman and on special teams in 05. Started all 14 games at right tackle in 06. Started all
13 games again at the ORT spot in 07.
Positives: Has long arms and big hands. Good
overall size. Competes and gives good effort.
Flashes some strength.
Negatives: Has a bad body with too much
baby fat. Marginal athlete. Struggles to handle
edge speed. Carries his hands low and does not
strike with power. Marginal bender. Shows little
awareness and is late to adjust to the blitz. Not
quick-footed.
Summary: Size prospect with enough size and
effort to compete for a job.

ORT AKIM

MILLINGTON

(6-412, 309, 5.4e) ILLINOIS

Notes: Named the Most Outstanding Lineman


in the state by the Illinois Coaches Association
as a prep and also lettered in track and field.
Redshirted at Oklahoma in 2003. Saw limited
action in 4-of-13 games as a reserve tackle in 04
before leaving the team in 05 to seek more playing time. Transferred to Illinois and sat out the
season due to transfer rules. Stepped into the
starting lineup in 06 and started 10-of-12 games
at left tackle, missing starts against Michigan
State and Indiana with a right ankle injury that
required arthroscopic surgery. Voted a team captain in 06. Move to the right side in 07 after
Charles Myles was lost for the season with a torn
rotator cuff, but he missed time in fall camp with
a shoulder injury of his own. Started all 13
games in 07 at right tackle.
Positives: Looks the part with a well-proportioned frame, very long arms and big hands. Can
get in the way and neutralize defenders.
Negatives: Does not play with strength or
power and gets knocked around too easily. Not a

natural bender. Has stiff ankles and is late to


adjust to speed off the edge. Lacks upper-body
strength. Too limited athletically. Struggles to
adjust to moving targets. Durability is a concern.
Summary: Has the physical tools to be invited
to a camp.

ORG-C DERRICK

MORSE

(6-438, 325, 5.33) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Started the final


six games as an injury replacement at right guard
in 04. Suffered a shoulder injury in 05 summer
camp but returned to play in the final five games
as a reserve. Started all 12 games in which he
played at right guard in 06, missing the Duke
contest after participating in an on-field brawl
against Florida International. Graduated in 06.
Started all 12 games in 07 at right guard.
Positives: Tough, smart and very competitive.
Flashes some nastiness. Shows enough athletic
ability to pull.
Negatives: Very limited athlete with a bad
body. Struggles to hit a moving target and function in space. Plays too tall with little knee bend
and falls off blocks. Does not play with pop or
explosion.
Summary: Tough overachiever with the
strength of character and work ethic to outplay
his athletic limitations. Could compete for a job
as a swing interior backup.

OLG SHAWN

MURPHY

(6-378, 320, 5.39) UTAH STATE

Notes: Will turn 25 years old in December.


Attended Ricks College (now BYU-Idaho) in
2001 and started 3-of-12 games at defensive end.
Spent 2002-04 in Brazil on a religious mission.
Attended Dixie State College of Utah in 2005.
Transferred to Utah State in 06 and started all
12 games at left tackle. Moved inside to left
guard in 07 and started all 12 games again.
Positives: Has a solid, well-proportioned
frame. Flashes a strong punch. Gets into blocks
quickly and can get positioning. Good agility
and balance in pass protection did not allow a
sack as a senior. Plays hard and will fight and
scrap. Showed improved awareness against the
blitz. Very smart and hardworking and should
continue to improve. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Faced marginal competition in the
Western Athletic Conference. Still relatively raw
and inexperienced. Can do a better job of replacing his hands and punching with power.
Summary: Bulked up and played with more
tenacity as a senior, catching notice from evaluators at the East-West Shrine practices for his
toughness. Has lined up outside and could be an
emergency tackle.

OLT CARL

NICKS

(6-478, 341, 5.26) NEBRASKA

Notes: Married with one child. Enrolled at


New Mexico State in 2004 and converted from a
defensive tackle to the offensive line. Transw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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ferred to Hartnell College (Calif.) in 05. Transferred to Nebraska in 06 and started 2-of-11
games in which he played at right tackle. Moved
to left tackle and started 11-of-12 games in 07.
Positives: Very gifted big man with outstanding arm length and natural movement skills. Has
left tackle feet, agility and athleticism. Sets
quickly in pass protection. Plays with power and
shows the ability to dominate. Very good punch
strength. Shows good thump and can drive
defenders off the ball. Moves effortlessly. Nice
balance and footwork for a 345-pounder.
Negatives: Relies too much on his natural athleticism. Too undisciplined. Questionable work
ethic. Suspect stamina. Very raw technique
opens his hips too often, does not use his hands
and lets defenders into his frame. Initial punch is
average and can learn to strike with more authority. Too inconsistent from game to game. Lacks
awareness sensing pressure. Inconsistent effort.
Only a one-year starter.
Summary: Moves around with the grace and
agility of a first-rounder, but could be rejected
for his character. Could be great if he dropped 15
pounds and took the game more seriously, but he
more likely will spin out of control after receiving a big payday.

OT JEFF

OTAH

Jeff Otah

l PITTSBURGH

(6-6, 322, 5.56) PITTSBURGH

Notes: Came to the United States from Nigeria when he was seven years old. Didnt play
football until his senior year of high school. Also
lettered in basketball as a prep. Attended Valley
Forge (Pa.) Military Academy and started all 17
games at offensive tackle from 2004-05. Also
started on the basketball team and averaged 19
points and 12 rebounds per game. Transferred to
Pitt in 06 and started all 12 games at left tackle.
Started all 12 games again at left tackle in 07.
Did not finish workout at Combine because of
sprained left ankle.
Positives: Naturally strong and powerful with
long arms and a good, solid frame. Plays physical. Comes off the ball with force and drives
defenders off the ball. Plays with great power
and has stood out against better competition.
Can pull and strike a stationary target. Great finisher. Shows a mean streak. Will strike and
reload with his hands and shows the pop to
shock defenders with his punch. Does a good job
of sustaining blocks.
Negatives: Does not take great angles. Not an
elite athlete. Does not show great foot speed.
Struggles to strike moving targets on the second
level. Has a tendency to rise out of his stance. Still
raw and could take time to grasp a complex
offense. Does not show great stamina. Needs to
show that he is willing to pay the price to be great.
Summary: Worked out at the Combine with a
sprained left ankle and his 40-time likely is
skewed due to injury. He is by no means a ballerina and could be best-suited on the right side in
the pros, where he could better use his natural
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strength and power, but he has proven to be


functional on the left side and should only continue to get better given his relative lack of experience at the position.

C-OG MIKE

POLLAK

(6-312, 301, 5.04) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: Also lettered in baseball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Started 4-of-8 games in
which he played in 04, when the starter was out
with injury, and started 6-of-12 games in 05 for
the same reason. Started all 26 games over the
next two seasons. Two-time team captain.
Already graduated.
Positives: Very good size. Good agility to
maneuver and work in space. Good snap-andstep quickness. Plays with leverage. Is aware
and instinctive and handles movement in front of
him very well. Sees and picks up the blitz. Very
active hands. Flashes pop in his punch. Effective
pulling and trapping. Does a good job of fitting
on linebackers. Solid anchor. Can torque defenders and wall off lanes. Smart. Tough. Works hard
and plays with pride. Very durable. Worked out
exceptionally well at the Combine.
Negatives: Very average arm length. Lacks
functional strength to generate movement and
knock defenders off the ball in the run game.
Does not consistently play with power. Tends to
play a bit upright and without a lot of natural
bend. Does not always bring his feet with him or
show great balance. His feet appear to lag when
sliding and shuffling in pass protection.
Summary: Emerged from the postseason after

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a strong Senior Bowl and Combine as the top
center in the draft. His size, natural athleticism,
awareness and agility are all very solid, but
scouts wish he played more to his numbers and
was more physical and nasty. Has taken strides
every year and has shown improvement and
should continue to get better.

OLT TYLER

POLUMBUS

(6-712, 312, 5.33) COLORADO

Notes: Father, Tad, lettered in football, basketball and golf at CU in the 1960s. Redshirted
in 2003 and gained 25 pounds to get to 270. Saw
action in 10 games in 04 on special teams and
three games on offense as a reserve offensive
tackle. Played in all 13 games in 05, starting the
first two and the Champs Sports Bowl. In
between, was hampered by a high left ankle
sprain. Missed the spring of 06 while rehabbing
from shoulder surgery. Started all 12 games in
06 at left tackle. Started all 13 games again at
left tackle in 07.
Positives: Shows enough athleticism and
quickness to hook defensive ends. Gets good
positioning and can seal running lanes. Nice
footwork in his pass sets. Keeps his shoulders
squared and can handle inside moves. Solid
technician. Good worker. Tough. Plays alertly
and anticipates when pressure is coming. Smart
and learns quickly.
Negatives: Marginal punch strength and
anchor. Not strong or physical and struggles to
sustain blocks. Lacks bulk and functional
strength. Has short arms for someone as tall as
he is. Is tight-hipped and struggles to initiate
contact on the second level and fit on linebackers. Not nasty.
Summary: One-shot-and-fall-off blocker who
can smother defenders in tight quarters, but
lacks the natural bend, athleticism, arm length
and strength to be effective in the pros. Is not a
good space player but can get in the way and fits
best in a zone-blocking scheme.

ORG CHILO

RACHAL (Junior)

(6-5, 315, 5.26) USC

Notes: Was a 2003 SuperPrep All-American


despite only playing in four games his senior
year while at Dominguez High School in Compton, Calif. Redshirted as a freshman in 04, and
had arthroscopic surgery to remove torn cartilage from his left knee. He appeared in all 13
games in 05 as a backup offensive guard and on
special teams. Started 12 games at right guard in
06, missing only the Washington game with a
sprained ankle. Started 10 games in 07, missing
three games because of a sprained right knee
suffered against Washington.
Positives: Very strong. Has a big frame and
good body mass. Plays with a wide base. Plays
with power and runs his feet on contact. Keeps
his head on a swivel in pass protection. Can
shuffle and slide. Can effectively make the playside reach block. Shows the ability to sustain.

Plays with a sense of urgency and flashes the


ability to climb defenders in the run game. Good
finisher can put defenders on their backs.
Game-tough and very competitive.
Negatives: Does not play with great knee
bend, lacks great anchor strength and is too easily stalemated. Tight in the hips. Plays shortarmed and could do a better job of extending and
punching. Struggles to handle inside counter
moves. Not very agile to scoop and seal and gets
caught up in traffic. Takes choppy steps. Does
not have great lateral recovery quickness. Has
been dinged up a bit. Emotional and has a short
temper.
Summary: A big, strong, physical, upperbody blocker who lacks the foot quickness and
natural knee bend to consistently produce power
from his lower body. Decided to declare for the
draft to help support his mother financially and
could have benefited from another year in
school. Will fit best on an offensive line predicated on power.

ORT-OLG DREW

RADOVICH

(6-412, 301, 5.39) USC

Notes: Father played linebacker at Arizona


State (1974-76). Named Parade All-American
as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Played in 10-of13 games as a reserve offensive tackle in 04,
missing the UCLA contest with a strained hip.
Appeared in the first three games as a reserve
guard in 05 but redshirted due to a right hip
strain that required season-ending surgery. Started all 13 games at left guard in 06. Moved to
right tackle in 07 and played in all 13 games,
starting the last 12.
Positives: Has long arms and a solid frame to
grow. Gets good extension and can lock out.
Agile enough to work the edge and will compete. Has the foot quickness to get out to the second level and seal off linebackers. Shows
enough speed to turn and run downfield. Gets
positioning and shows the ability to adjust and
sustain. Good on-field competitor. Shows awareness vs. the blitz. Plays tough and can sit to
anchor.
Negatives: Has the body of a ballpark peanuts
vendor and looks like he has not seen a weight
room, with little musculature. Needs to get
stronger and spend more time in the weight
room. Lacks bulk strength, lets his pads rise and
gets driven back too easily. Is vulnerable to the
inside and struggles with counter moves. Does
not look pretty run-blocking and stepping out to
the second level.
Summary: Is by no means a workout warrior
and would not expect to stack well in the gymnastics events at the Combine, yet he did finish
among the top tackles in the agility drills at the
Combine, plays with enough quickness to handle the edge and consistently finds a way to get
the job done. If he ever decides to dedicate himself more to the weight room, he could become
a very solid pro.
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C-ORT JAMEY

RICHARD

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(6-434, 295, 5.26) BUFFALO

Notes: Also threw the shotput in high school


and wrestled. First player in high schools history to earn a D-I scholarship. Redshirted in 2003.
Started 2-of-7 games in which he played at center in 04. Started all 11 games in 05 and all 12
games in 06 at center. Elected team captain as a
junior and senior. Started all 12 games at center
in 07.
Positives: Has a chip on his shoulder. Very
tough and nasty. Plays with a mean intent and
nasty disposition. Stays after blocks. Shows
some violence in his play. Is quick into blocks.
Effective cut blocker. Shows good awareness in
recognizing and adjusting to the blitz. Gives
great effort and knows how to play only one way
all-out. Finishes blocks. Vocal leader. Very
smart.
Negatives: Average athlete. Struggles to reach
and cut off defenders. Uses bad technique
takes a drop step in pass protection, staggering
his feet, which prevents him from moving laterally. As a result, struggles to slide and mirror and
stay in front of defenders. Not quick-handed to
punch and reload. Is too tall for the center position and at a natural leverage disadvantage. Does
not drive defenders off the ball or play with a lot
of power.
Summary: His footwork could use refinement
and could be corrected but he has a physical
football temperament that cannot be taught and
should allow him to overachieve in the pros. Is
tall for the center position and may be more natural on the edge if he could bulk up.

OT BARRY

RICHARDSON

(6-6 8, 320, 5.49) CLEMSON


5

Notes: Graduated a year early from high


school. Started the last 8-of-11 games in 2004,
the most starts by a freshman offensive lineman
in school history. Started all 12 games in 05 at
left tackle. Lost 20 pounds prior to the 06 season and started all 13 games, allowing only two
sacks for the season. Started all 13 games in 07.
Positives: Has excellent size, very long arms
and big hands. Plays with balance in his feet and
can shadow and mirror defenders in pass protection. Shows the agility to pull and trap.
Negatives: Gets knocked around too easily
and does not play with authority. Is high-cut,
bends at the waist and struggles to handle inside
counter moves and edge speed. Average athlete.
Plays too narrow-based and struggles to sustain
blocks. Is not explosive and does not play with
power. Plays with too much finesse. Soft hands
striker. Does not finish blocks. Not mentally or
physically tough. Plays down to the level of his
competition. Can play more alertly and do a better job of recognizing the blitz.
Summary: Stands out most for his size, overall body length and experience in the Southeastern Conference. Lacks the foot quickness
desired to be more than a backup on the left side
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and does not have enough glass in his diet for the
right side.

OLG-ORT CHAD

RINEHART

(6-5, 320, 5.49) NORTHERN IOWA

Notes: Also threw the discus as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 5-of-8 games in which
he played at left tackle in 04, missing three midseason contests to undergo a laparoscopic
appendectomy. Started all 15 games in 05. In
06, started all 11 games. Started all 13 games in
07 again at OLT spot.
Positives: Has a strong, husky build. Plays
with some strength and power and can collapse
defenders blocking down. Plays with awareness
and can latch on and maul. Plays heavy-handed.
Shows enough agility to pull and trap. Solid
anchor.
Negatives: Mechanical mover. Bends at the
waist and does not play with leverage. Not
quick-footed and labors to change direction,
redirect and move laterally. Struggles with
inside counter moves and can be exposed by
edge speed. Carries his pads too tall and struggles to sustain. Has a soft, fleshy body and his
weight has tended to fluctuate.
Summary: College left tackle who lacks the
foot quickness and agility desired on the left side
and likely will have to move inside to be effective, where his strength and power would be
more suited and he would not be as vulnerable to
handling edge speed.

OLT-OLG WILL

ROBINSON

(6-5, 297, 5.23) SAN DIEGO STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 6-of-8 games
in which he played in 04 at left guard (one), left
tackle (one) and right tackle (four), missing time
due to a concussion suffered against Brigham
Young. Started the final 8-of-12 games at ORT
spot in 05, overtaking Eric Rouser, who himself
was filling in for the incumbent, Mike Kravetz.
Moved to the OLT spot and started all 12 games
in 06. Started all 12 games at left tackle in 07.
Strained his right quad while running the 40yard dash at the Combine and did not finish
workouts.
Positives: Has a frame to grow into. Is fairly
agile and athletic and light on his feet. Can
adjust to counter moves. Works up to the second
level and can fit on linebackers. Competes hard.
Negatives: Too light and needs to get stronger
in the lower body. Can be knocked around and
controlled. Is underpowered and struggles to
anchor vs. the bull rush. Has struggled to add
weight throughout college. Lacks upper-body
strength.
Summary: Raw developmental prospect who
needs to get bigger and stronger. Showed
enough athleticism at the East-West Shrine game
for teams to consider developing him, although
he may get more looks inside for a zone-blocking team.

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OLG BRANDON

RODD

(6-338, 302, 5.25e) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: Also lettered four years in paddling


(kayaking) at Aiea High School in Hawaii. Redshirted in 2003. Started the season opener in 04
at left guard before tearing his right anterior cruciate ligament and missing the rest of the season.
Granted a medical redshirt. Started all 12 games
at left guard in 05. Moved to left tackle in 06
and started 10-of-13 games, missing the Arizona
contest with a sprained left medial collateral ligament. Started all 13 games at left tackle in 07.
Positives: Competes hard. Can get positioning
and sustain in a short area. Blue-collar worker.
Plays hurt. Unselfish team player.
Negatives: Has an underdeveloped body. Not
physical. Marginal anchor strength and power.
Gets collapsed too easily and struggles to control blockers and adjust to quick movement.
Limited foot quickness to handle edge speed.
Plays too soft. Does not show much awareness.
Summary: Limited, try-hard athlete who might
have a chance inside as a positional blocker.

OLG-C HERCULES

SATELE

defenders. Can handle mammoth widebodies.


Flashes some nastiness and will work to finish
blocks and tee off on defenders when he gets an
open shot. Has a strong anchor. Sets quickly in
pass protection. Punches and recoils. Has strong
hands and can lock on and maul defenders. Is
almost always on his feet. Shows recover ability.
Plays smart and can handle stunts and twists.
Will play hurt. Held his own at right tackle.
Negatives: Not a physical drive blocker. Too
tightly wound and heavy-footed. Struggles when
he gets outside and has to hit a moving target.
Too often whiffs in space. Does not play with
natural bend and leverage. Lets defenders get
underneath his pads and can be controlled.
Struggled vs. USC DT Sedrick Ellis. Can be
exposed vs. sudden spin moves. Average body
flexibility.
Summary: A better pass protector than run
blocker, Schuening is strong, dependable and
best in a short area. His ability to help outside in
a pinch brings added value. Could develop into a
solid starter. His toughness and work habits
could win the hearts of coaches.

(6-112, 297, 5.3e) HAWAII

ORT-ORG GEOFF

Notes: Brother, Samson, was a 2007 secondround pick of the Miami Dolphins, and his
cousin, Melila Purcell, was a 07 sixth-round
pick of the Cleveland Browns. Hercules also
played volleyball as a prep. Redshirted in 03.
Saw limited action in five games on the offensive line in 04. Appeared in five games in 05 at
offensive guard. Started all 14 games in 06 at
left guard. Started all 13 games at left guard in
07.
Positives: Good awareness. Flashes pop in his
punch and can control blockers in limited areas.
Very durable.
Negatives: Has not been asked to run-block a
lot. Limited agility to block on the move and
strike a moving target. Takes some questionable
angles and does not show the body control to initiate contact and sustain on the second level. Not
overly physical or nasty. Has short arms.
Summary: Naturally strong short-area mauler
who can maintain positioning in line. Might
have a chance at center.

(6-614, 332, 5.38) OREGON

ORG ROY

SCHUENING

(6-358, 306, 5.36) OREGON STATE

Notes: Last name pronounced SHOE-ning.


Also lettered in wrestling and track as a prep,
breaking the school shotput record with a throw
of 56 feet 6 inches. Redshirted in 2003. Started
all 37 games at right guard over the next three
seasons. Started all 13 games in 07, moving to
right tackle for the final four. Lost 18 pounds
during the season after developing walking
pneumonia, but he did not miss a game, instead
choosing to play while taking heavy antibiotics.
Positives: Very tough and competitive. Plays
with a wide base. Good upper-body strength.
Flashes a strong punch. Can maul and smother

SCHWARTZ

Notes: Saw action in four games as a true


freshman in 2004. Started all 12 games at right
tackle in 05. Started 11-of-12 games in which
he played in 06, missing the Portland State and
Arizona games with a herniated disc. Barely
practiced after Week Four except for walkthroughs so that he could play on Saturdays. Did
not participate in 07 spring practice, but recovered to start all 13 games at right tackle in 07.
Did not bench-press at the Combine due to a
right pectoral strain.
Positives: Tough and physical. Plays with balance. If he has a shot to hit defenders in his
wheelhouse, he is very effective. Has a strong
anchor and can keep his feet in the ground.
Shows some flexibility and bend. Solid pass protector. Performed well vs. USC and showed
more toughness as the year progressed. Will play
through pain. Very smart, dependable and coachable.
Negatives: Has a bad body. Average athlete.
Not quick-footed and is too often late to adjust
to movement. Has lead in his feet and shows
limited lower-body explosion. Not smooth or
agile to work downfield. Struggles to handle
edge speed and inside counter moves. Does not
have great body control. The more ground he has
to cover, the more he struggles. Very limited in
space. Will struggle to pull from the OG position. Has handled short-snapping duties and
practices as a long-snapper.
Summary: Moved surprisingly well at the
Combine and showed he should be able to stick
on the edge. However, could be projected inside
because of his strength, toughness and limited
athleticism. Could be a solid value pick on the
second day and develop into a starter.
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C-OLG ERIC

SCOTT

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(6-214, 298, 5.01) KENTUCKY

Notes: Engaged to his high school sweetheart.


Also lettered in basketball and track (discus) in
high school and saw time at RB, FB, TE, DT and
LB spots. Redshirted as a tight end in 2003.
Started 3-of-11 games in 04 and posted 13
receptions for 111 yards (8.5-yard average).
Converted to defensive end in 05 and played in
all 11 games, totaling four tackles and one sack.
Switched to the offensive line in 06 and started
1-of-13 games at right guard and also saw time
at center. Underwent postseason surgery to
repair a torn right labrum, but returned in the fall
of 07 to play in all 13 games, starting 12.
Positives: Has big hands and long arms and
natural athleticism. Shows the agility to play in
space and get to the second level.
Negatives: Underpowered and plays too soft.
Struggles to sustain blocks. Not strong or physical. Too undisciplined. Marginal instincts and
awareness makes at least one major mental
error per game and never truly knows his responsibilities. Questionable intelligence.
Summary: Natural athleticism and foot quickness stood out at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star
game. Clearly has enough talent to warrant
drafting, but his football intelligence must
improve to make it. Could be best in a zoneblocking scheme used by a team like the Texans
or Broncos.

ORT-ORG STEPHEN

SENE

(6-434, 328, 5.42) LIBERTY

Notes: Attended South Carolina in 2002 and


redshirted due to recurring back spasms that
required hospitalization. Started 2-of-8 games in
which he played at left guard and right tackle in
03. Transferred to Dodge City (Kan.) Community College in 04 but did not play due to injury.
Moved on to Liberty and started 9-of-11 games
at left tackle in 05 and all 11 games in 06. Was
granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA
due to his back condition. Started all 11 games
at left tackle in 07.
Positives: Has a huge frame with very long
arms and plays with some power. Can grab and
maul defenders inline. Plays on his feet and can
shuffle, slide and mirror.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Does not consistently finish blocks. Plays a bit
top-heavy. Not very instinctive or aware. Overaged. Will be a 24-year-old rookie.
Summary: Lacks the foot quickness to stay on
the left side but could have a chance on the right
side or at guard. Has overcome a lot of adversity since beginning his career at South Carolina
and could thrive in a supportive environment.

OL PEDRO

SOSA

(6-358, 300, 5.2e) RUTGERS

Notes: Also played on the defensive line as a


prep and lettered in basketball. Redshirted in
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2003. Played five games in reserve in 04. Started all 25 games at left tackle over the next two
seasons for an offensive line that allowed the
fewest sacks in the nation in 06 (eight). Started all 12 games in which he played in 07.
Missed the Pittsburgh game late in the season
with a knee injury. Did not perform any running
at the Combine because of a dislocated left
kneecap.
Positives: Gets into blocks quickly and can
maintain positioning and seal lanes. Plays on his
feet with nice balance and can pull and get out in
space. Works quickly to fit on linebackers.
Negatives: Too thinly built, narrow-framed
and lacks upper-body strength. Needs to spend
more time in the weight room and get stronger.
Does not play strong or physical and finish
blocks. Only bench-pressed 225 pounds 19
times at the Combine.
Summary: Did not show great athleticism at
the East-West Shrine game and scouts said he
struggled. Lacks the arm length ideal for the outside and his best chance in the pros could come
inside. Not very strong and could fit best in a
zone-blocking scheme used by a team like the
Packers, Broncos or Texans. Could be an ideal
swing backup with the versatility to play anywhere on the line.

OG-C MATT

SPANOS

(6-5, 317, 5.52) USC

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Served as a


reserve offensive tackle and member of special
teams in 04, appearing in nine games. He
sprained his left arch late in the season and
missed the final four contests. Moved from tackle to center in spring ball in 05, but only saw
brief action on special teams and as a reserve in
all 13 games that season. Was slated to start at
right tackle before being ruled academically
ineligible for the 06 season. Missed the first
three contests in 07 because of a torn right triceps suffered in fall camp. Played in the last 10
games, starting the last nine at center.
Positives: Has excellent size with long arms
and looks the part. Is versatile and has lined up
at every position on the line. Nice lateral quickness. Tough.
Negatives: Plays way too upright. Too inconsistent. Only a one-year starter. Comes off the
ball tall and plays with little power or strength.
Bends at the waist and overextends. Can get
shocked, ragdolled and controlled too easily.
Struggles to anchor in pass protection. Plays too
tall and gets buckled on the second level. Plays
too straight-legged and gets stood up. Lacks the
quickness to seal and cut off defenders. Falls off
blocks and struggles to sustain. Durability has
been an issue.
Summary: Lacks the functional strength, foot
quickness and dependability desired at the next
level, but could bring value as a versatile, multipositional backup if he could stay focused. May
be most natural at right guard.

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C-OG ADAM

SPIEKER

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track


and field. Redshirted in 2003. Started all 49
games at center during his career as a four-year
starter.
Positives: Smart and aware and is instinctive
for the position. Good weight-room strength.
Very experienced.
Negatives: Has short arms and a soft body.
Plays straight up and never has his hand in the
ground. Late to get his hands up and strike.
Struggles to anchor and hold his ground. Limited foot athlete. Does not play with balance. Not
physical and does not play with power. Limited
bend and flexibility. Marginal anchor strength.
Not a great competitor.
Summary: Lacks the foot and hand quickness
desired at the center position and his athletic
limitations could be difficult to overcome.

tor. Scans the field and picks up the nearest


threat when uncovered. Flashes some nastiness.
Very smart. Makes all the line calls. Very
durable.
Negatives: Spent too much time on the
ground. Can be late to step and snap and strike
with his hands. Did not play with natural knee
bend. Struggles to reach the corner pulling and
hit a moving target. Tends to grab and hold more
than recoil and punch. Shows tightness in his
hips. Lumbers in space and is inconsistent
adjusting on the second level. Not a great finisher and is too often late to reach the block point.
Inconsistent short-snapping accuracy.
Summary: Regressed as a senior starting
alongside two freshman guards and too often did
not get help from his sides. Despite limited agility, he is very strong, plays with power and could
bring the most value to a team that likes to play
with power. Could warrant looks at right guard.

ORT-ORG CARNELL

OLG DONALD

(6-218, 308, 5.31) MISSOURI

STEWART

THOMAS

(6-438, 324, 5.22) LSU

(6-338, 303, 5.07) CONNECTICUT

Notes: Played defensive tackle and recorded


74 tackles and 19 sacks as a high school senior.
Played two games at defensive tackle as a true
freshman in 2003 before redshirting the remainder of the season. Played in three games over the
next two seasons. Converted to the offensive line
during 06 spring practice and backed up at right
tackle for eight games. Started all 14 games at
right tackle in 07.
Positives: Has a big, massive frame with huge
hands and looks the part. Shows some strength
blocking down.
Negatives: Bends too much at the waist and
lacks functional strength. Slow to shuffle and
slide and adjust to movement. Could take some
time to absorb a playbook. Too stiff.
Summary: Developmental project with the
sheer size and measurables to warrant a chance.

Notes: Walked on to the team and redshirted


in 2004. Played in all 11 games on special teams
in 05, acting as a wedgebuster on kickoffs
among other tasks. Played in 10 games in 06,
earning his first career start at left guard against
Cincinnati, but also was suspended for two
games that season following an off-field altercation in which he assaulted a restaurant employee
because it was taking too long to get his food.
Started all 13 games in 07 at left guard.
Positives: Well-built up top with good arm
length and upper-body strength. Plays bigger
than his size and shows the ability to shock
defenders with his punch. Can control defenders
in short areas and finish blocks. Can pull and
locate defenders.
Negatives: Too thin in the lower body. Plays
too wide-based with his feet outside his frame,
limiting his lateral quickness and agility. Relies
too much on his upper-body strength. Gets
knocked off balance and spends more time on
the ground than he should. Basically a one-year
starter. Not very instinctive. Can be walked in
pass protection and lacks anchor strength to sit.
Can be late to see the blitz and adjust to it. Can
do a better job of using his hands to punch in
pass protection.
Summary: Top-heavy mauler who is best in
short areas. Could improve his lower-body
strength and play with better leverage and may
take some time to adjust to the pro game. Has
upside and should continue to get better. Has
been nicknamed Chickenshack by scouts due
to his off-field incident at the restaurant.

C JOHN

SULLIVAN

(6-312, 301, 5.39) NOTRE DAME

Notes: Named a USA Today second-team AllAmerican and Connecticuts Gatorade Player of
the Year as a prep. Compiled a 138-6 record in
wrestling as a prep, won three state championships and placed seventh and earned AllAmerica honors at the 2003 National High
School Coaches Association senior national
championship. Also lettered in water polo and
rugby. Redshirted in 03. Started all 12 games in
04. In 05, started the final 8-of-12 games. In
06, started all 13 games. Graduated in 06.
Started 10 games at center in 07, missing the
two contests (Duke and Stanford) because of a
knee injury.
Positives: Plays with power. Big, strong and
flashes some power in his punch. Has a strong
lower body and base. Shows the strength to handle widebodies and anchor in pass protection.
Can mirror effectively when covered up, showing good hand use and balance. Good competi-

C KEVIN

TUMINELLO

(6-338, 296, 5.35e) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Brother, Chris, played on the offensive


line at Toledo. Kevin redshirted in 2003. Missed
spring practice after having surgery on his left
ankle. Started 1-of-5 games in which he played
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as an injury replacement in 04. Started 39 consecutive games at center over the last three seasons. Graduate in December.
Positives: Plays smart with good instincts.
Nice leverage and balance. Competes hard. Can
get in the way and seal off defenders. Very experienced.
Negatives: Does not finish blocks or play with
any nastiness. Lacks bulk and strength to handle
massive widebodies. Lacks anchor strength and
can be walked back. Struggles to generate any
movement.
Summary: A hardworking, assignment-sound,
experienced overachiever with marginal strength
and power for the pro game. Effort and intelligence could give him a shot.

OG-C ERIC

TUNNEY

(6-234, 286, 5.3e) CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Saw limited action in04 as
a reserve guard, only playing in one game before
suffering a left anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Started all 11 games in 05 at left guard. Started
all 14 games in 06 at right guard. Sat out the 07
season opener vs. Kansas after having his left
knee scoped in the offseason, but returned to
start the final 13 games.
Positives: Tough and competitive. Is very
smart and aware. Versatile and can play guard or
center. Gets into blocks quickly and can wall off
defenders. Works well in tandems.
Negatives: Not big or strong. Lacks pop and
power. Struggles to slide and cut off the blitz.
Limited lateral quickness and agility. Struggles
to anchor vs. massive widebodies. His history of
knee injuries could be restricting.
Summary: Is versatile enough to warrant a
look as an interior swing backup in a zoneblocking scheme if he could stay healthy.

OLG-C FERNANDO

VELASCO

dle speed off the edge and adjust to sudden


counter moves. Is late to reach the second level.
Struggles to handle defenders in space. Average
lateral quickness. Plays too upright. Average
second-level quickness. Can be late reacting to
the blitz.
Summary: Surprisingly not invited to the
Combine, Velasco is not a great athlete, but he is
big, strong and physical and is very effective in
tight quarters when he latches on. Looked more
comfortable at guard as a junior than he did at
center as a senior. Classic overachiever who
should be drafted because of his intangibles.

C CODY

WALLACE

(6-414, 296, 5.32) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Backed up at


strong guard in 5-of-12 games in 04. Earned the
starting center spot in 05 and started 37 consecutive games the last three seasons. Voted permanent team captain by his teammates in 06.
Positives: Outstanding size, girth and weightroom strength. Shows some strength at the point
of attack. Can shuffle and slide and mirror
defenders in small areas. Very smart, hardworking and competitive. Has overcome a lot of
adversity in his life and is very tough-minded.
Plays smart and sets the protection.
Negatives: Average athlete. Struggles to move
and adjust in space. Lacks quick feet and agility
and has a tendency to fall off blocks. The farther
he has to go, the more he struggles. Overextends, loses balance and spends too much time
on the ground. Slow to reach a moving target
and too often cannot get to the second level. Late
to see and react to the blitz. Shows little pop in
his punch. Has struggled vs. better competition.
Summary: The type of player you root for,
Wallace has terrific intangibles and will do
everything he is asked, but he is still limited athletically and must learn how to convert his
weight-room strength to the field.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-234, 308, 5.24) GEORGIA

Notes: Saw action as a backup on the offensive line through most of the 2003 season.
Played in all 12 games as a backup guard in 04,
starting one vs. Vanderbilt. Redshirted the 05
season on coachs suggestion so that he would
have two more years of eligibility. Started all 13
games in 06 at left guard. Moved to center in
07, and started all 13 games there.
Positives: Has big, strong hands and uses
them well to maul and control defenders. Plays
with strength in his hands to latch on and maul.
Can mirror defenders in short areas. Has natural
girth and body thickness, good weight-room
strength and the type of frame to get bigger and
stronger. Flashes some pop in his punch. Competes hard. Versatile lined up at center as a
senior. Very solid character. Well-respected team
captain. Outstanding worker. Is smart and can
handle multiple position assignments.
Negatives: Not quick-footed and will lunge,
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OLT CHRIS

WILLIAMS

(6-6, 315, 5.16) VANDERBILT

Notes: Engaged to be married. Redshirted in


2003. Did not play in 04. Started 9-of-11 games
at left guard in 05, although he saw just as much
time at left tackle. Started all 12 games at left
tackle in 06, allowing only one sack all year
in the season opener vs. Michigan. Voted team
captain in 07 and started all 12 games.
Positives: Very naturally athletic mover. Plays
with great balance and is rarely on the ground.
Very good recovery skills. Can slide and mirror
in pass protection. Shows the agility to cut off
the wide rush and adjust to sudden inside
counter moves. Shows solid anchor strength to
hold his ground and the agility to run pass rushers wide of the pocket. Contained Florida DE
Derrick Harvey and showed he can handle edge
speed. Good pass sets. Shows spurts of aggressiveness. Very smart.
Negatives: Not strong in the upper body and

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the Combine because of the injury.
Positives: Shows naturally quick feet, agility,
balance, natural knee bend and sudden movement skills. Gets into blocks quickly and can
reach and seal defenders. Works for position.
Can shuffle, slide and mirror. Is effective blocking down and running his feet on contact. Flashes good strength to drive defenders off the ball.
Shows the ability to recover in pass protection.
Negatives: Not physically or mentally tough.
Too hot and cold. Takes bad angles to the second
level. Struggles to handle edge speed. Not a technician carries his hands low. Plays lazy and
does not finish blocks. Too much of a pusher and
leaner. Shows no power and little explosion off
the ball. Does not show awareness to pick up the
blitz and will let blitzers cross his face. Opens his
shoulders in pass protection and lets defenders
upfield. Does not play with confidence.
Summary: Has the athletic ability and agility
to handle playing on the edge, but his instincts
for the game, understanding of angles and inconsistent technique make him very frustrating to
watch. Projects inside in a zone-blocking
scheme.

C-ORT-OLG JEREMY

ZUTTAH

(6-338, 303, 5.07) RUTGERS

Chris Williams

l VANDERBILT

does not play physical. Wish he played with


more vinegar. Can be late off the ball. Uses too
much finesse. Takes some questionable angles.
Stops working before the whistle. Does not play
with power. Average arm length. Carries his
hands low and lacks pop in his punch. Will overrun targets on the second level. Plays down to
the level of competition and needs to be motivated by a challenge. Not a fiery competitor.
Summary: Has continued his climb after finishing the season strong and carrying the
momentum into the draft postseason. Impressed
scouts with solid Senior Bowl and Combine performances and has the smarts, foot quickness
and athletic ability to start a long time in the
league at left tackle. However, he is not physical,
does not drive blockers off the ball and almost
plays too nice.

OLG-OLT ERIC

YOUNG

(6-358, 310, 5.2e) TENNESSEE

Notes: Parade All-America selection as a


prep who also won the South Carolina shotput
title as a high school junior with a throw of 54
feet 6 inches. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in 3of-13 games in 04. Started 2-of-9 games in
which he played at left tackle in 05, replacing
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2007 second-round
pick Arron Sears. Moved to right tackle in 06
and started all 13 games. Moved to left tackle in
place of the departed Sears and started eight
games in 07, but missed the final six games
after tearing his left quad. Did not work out at

Notes: Also lettered in baseball and basketball


as a prep. Started 5-of-9 games in which he
played in 2004 one at left tackle, three at left
guard and one at right tackle missing two
contests with a left knee sprain. Started 9-of-12
games at left guard in 05, missing three games
late in the year with an ankle sprain. Moved to
the ORT spot in 06 and started all 26 games
there over the next two seasons. Ran 13 yards
with a lateral pass in the first quarter of 07 game
vs. Louisville.
Positives: Very competitive. Solid in pass protection and is athletic to slide and mirror his
man. Can maintain positioning and neutralize
defenders. Flashes some power off the ball.
Shows good awareness and reacts to the blitz.
Can work in space and lead up on screens. Gets
to the second level quickly and can initiate contact there. Shows the ability to handle the speed
rush. Excellent strength. Excellent worker. Has a
passion for the game.
Negatives: Does not have great size or body
length for the tackle position. Is tightly wound
and will fall off some blocks. Comes off as an
arrogant, know-it-all. Has a history of ankle
injuries.
Summary: Workout warrior who performed
exceptionally well at the Combine and has terrific versatility to play anywhere on the line.
Looks overmatched on the right side and his
most natural position might be at center,
although it is the one position he has not played
on the line. Stood out at the East-West Shrine
game, and strong postseason workouts opened
eyes and elevated his draft status. Could be a
solid pro and contribute readily.
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SPORTPICS

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PFWS TOP

10

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

1. GLENN DORSEY
2. Vernon Gholston
3. Chris Long
4. Sedrick Ellis
5. Derrick Harvey
6. Phillip Merling
7. Calais Campbell
8. Kentwan Balmer
9. Lawrence Jackson
10. Trevor Laws
NT-DE KENTWAN

BALMER

(6-412, 308, 5.32) NORTH CAROLINA

Notes: Recorded more than 200 tackles and


20 sacks in his final two high school seasons.
Appeared in 9-of-12 games at defensive end as a
true freshman in 2004 and notched one tackle.
Started the final 3-of-11 games at defensive end
in 05 as an injury replacement and totaled 17
tackles, five tackles for loss and one sack. In 06,
started 8-of-10 games in which he played at
defensive tackle, missing two contests with a
sprained right ankle, and finished with 16-212212, two batted balls and two blocked PATs.
Played in all 12 games in 07, starting 11, and
totaled 59-912-312. Came off the bench vs. East
Carolina with a foot injury.
Positives: Has outstanding raw strength and
shows the ability to control blockers at the line
of scrimmage. Quick off the snap and strong at
the point. Can read and react as a two-gapper.
Created a buzz among DL coaches at the Senior
Bowl before getting hurt and shows the physical
tools to be coached. Moved surprisingly well
through the bag drills at the Combine.
Negatives: Really only a one-year producer.
Inconsistent effort and intensity. Does not use
his hands well when shedding and maneuvering
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

around blockers. Does not play through the double-team. Does not play with urgency. Is not
explosive or overly athletic. Lacks the burst and
acceleration to pursue. Needs a lot of technique
work. Can disappear and fail to make an impact,
and his overall career production is discouraging.
Summary: Late bloomer who responded to
the challenges of a new coaching staff, gained
nearly 20 pounds and emerged alongside talented true freshman DT Marvin Austin. Has the
natural size and strength to fit as a two-gapping
defensive end in a 3-4 front or as a nose in a 43. Has some intriguing natural tools, but must
first demonstrate that he is not motivated strictly
by a contract. Could be satisfied as a career
underachiever. Is not instant coffee and will
require some patience.

DE-OLB TOMMY

BLAKE

(6-234, 281, 4.85e) TEXAS CHRISTIAN

Notes: Was raised by his grandmother, who


has colon cancer. Amassed more than 2,000
rushing yards and 25 touchdowns as a high
school senior. Also lettered in track, basketball
and baseball. Redshirted and converted to defensive end in 2003. Played all 11 games at end in
04, registering 23 tackles, 612 tackles for loss

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and five sacks with four pass breakups and two
forced fumbles. Started all 12 games in 05 and
logged 59-1312-7. Started all 13 games in 06,
totaling 54-1612-7 with two forced fumbles and
two fumbles recoveries. Was named MVP of the
Poinsettia Bowl. Walked out of practice in midAugust 07 and returned home, missing the
remainder of summer workouts. Was hospitalized briefly and eventually diagnosed with
depression and social anxiety disorder, for
which medicine and therapy have been prescribed. Started 7-of-8 games in which he played
in 07 and totaled 21-8-4 and one batted ball, but
he sat out the season opener vs. Baylor and was
given a medical leave of absence for four midseason games. Returned from the leave of
absence overweight and entered pre-draft workouts at least 30 pounds over last seasons playing
weight.
Positives: As a junior, was an athletic and
explosive edge rusher and a very disruptive force
who wreaked havoc. Showed the outstanding
first-step quickness to blow by blockers. Sudden
and able to bend and dip to get around the corner. Good instincts.
Negatives: Medical condition is a big concern
and will draw red flags. Relies too much on his
natural talent and does not like to work. Does
not respond to tough coaching and criticism.
Questionable stamina.
Summary: Showed big-time pass-rushing
ability as a 255-pound junior, but depression and
social anxiety derailed his senior season. Medical evaluations will affect his draft status.
Looked grossly overweight and out of shape at
the East-West Shrine game and did not perform
at the Combine. Could have a long a road to
recovery, but has proven he could be a very
effective pass rusher if he can return to his junior
form.

DT BARRY

BOOKER

(6-334, 285, 5.12) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in one


game in 04 and recorded two tackles and a
forced fumble. Played in 12-of-13 games in 05,
tallying 13 tackles and two tackles for loss with
one fumble recovery. Started all 13 games in 06
and tallied 52-7 and 112 sacks with one forced
fumble and one fumble recovery. Started all 14
games in 07, registering 46-1012-4 with two
forced fumbles and one batted ball. Did not
work out at the Combine because of a right quad
pull.
Positives: Natural athlete. Good movement
skills. Plays with a low center of gravity and gets
under blockers. Can shoot gaps. Uses his hands
well to play off blocks vs. the run. Surprisingly
shows some strength at the point. Solid production.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and will get controlled
inside and blown off the line by the double-team.
Will get swallowed up by bigger blockers. Does
not play with power, control blocks or push the

pocket. Will disappear for stretches and does not


consistently play with energy.
Summary: Undersized, one-gap penetrator
who compensates for his lack of size with quickness and leverage. Has a chance to compete for
a job in an aggressive defensive front used by
teams like the Buccaneers, Bears or Colts.

DE-OLB TITUS

BROWN

(6-212, 246, 4.76) MISSISSIPPI STATE

Notes: Was set to redshirt but wound up starting 5-of-9 games at middle linebacker as a true
freshman in 2004, registering 59 total tackles,
312 tackles for loss and one sack. In the summer
of 05, was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault for participating in a bar fight,
but he was not suspended. During the season, he
moved to defensive end and started 2-of-10
games in which he played, missing the Mississippi contest with a fractured right fibula and
notching 30-512-112. Started 11-of-12 games at
left end in 06 and registered 38-1412-712. Started
all 13 games in 07 and recorded 43-1312-8,
adding two forced fumbles and one batted ball.
Did not work out at the Combine after having his
knee scoped.
Positives: Times up the snap and shows a nice
burst off the edge. Can swim and dip inside,
react to what he sees and vary his pass-rush
moves. Chases hard to the ball and plays hard.
Improved maturity and work habits.
Negatives: Too one-dimensional. Plays
upright and gets collapsed against the run. Is
undersized for an every-down end. Lacks upperbody strength. Not physical. Will get run wide
off the pocket and cannot transfer his speed into
power. Not strong at the point of attack. Struggles to finish.
Summary: A three-year starter in the Southeastern Conference with solid production and
quickness, Brown lacks the anchor strength to
defend the run and projects as a third-down passrush specialist. However, he lacks great burst off
the edge and is not an elite pass rusher. Best
when responsibilities are kept simple and he is
turned loose. Could warrant further looks at outside linebacker, although he has not shown he
can handle it.

DT JOSEPH RED

BRYANT

(6-418, 318, 5.07) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Started all 12 games in 04
and posted 34 tackles, 312 tackles for loss and 112
sacks. In 05, started 10-of-11 games, recording
28-712-3. Started the first 8-of-9 games in which
he played in 06 and logged 19-212-1 and five
batted balls before missing the remainder of the
season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Missed 07 spring practice recovering from knee
surgery but appeared to be 90 percent recovered
heading into preseason workouts. Played in all
13 games in 07, starting 12, and totaled 46-6-1
and adding two batted balls, one forced fumble
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and one blocked kick. Has blocked three kicks in
his career. Two-time team captain.
Positives: Good natural strength and arm
length. Can anchor vs. the run and is not easily
moved. Has good overall length and bulk.
Flashes good initial quickness off the ball and
works to the ball. Moves well for his size. Flashes some power and strength. Can push the pocket as a pass rusher. Solid tackler. Tough and
willing to play through injuries. Has a long
reach and has been effective blocking kicks on
special teams.
Negatives: Has a big belly with a small chest
and looks like he has not seen a weight room.
Lacks upper-body strength. Relies too heavily
on the bull rush and lacks movement and variety
in his pass rush. Does not have the agility to
bend and maneuver around blockers. Very naive.
Makes too many excuses. Could have some
communication barriers and struggle handling a
complex defense.
Summary: Massive space occupier with the
natural size and temperament to clog the run, but
struggled in his recovery from a torn ACL and
will be chronically limited by immaturity. Excited some scouts after standing out vs. marginal
competition at the Senior Bowl, but still must
prove he is more than a big body.

DLE MARTAIL

BURNETT

(6-214, 262, 4.8e) UTAH

Notes: Married. Also lettered in track and


field as a prep. Redshirted as a safety in 2003.
Moved to defensive end in the spring and saw
action in nine games in 04, logging five tackles
and one tackle for loss via the sack. Started 8-of12 games in a rotation at open end with Alex
Puccinelli in 05 and secured 53-7-312 and a
blocked kick. In 06, started all 13 games, tallying 42-1012-512 and two forced fumbles. Started
all 13 games at left defensive end in 07 and
posted 50-15-7 with three batted balls, one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble
recovery.
Positives: Has a big frame with very long
arms. Can fall back into coverage and shows
some awareness. Excellent leaping ability has
recorded a 40-inch vertical jump. Has natural
movement skills.
Negatives: Shows little variety of pass-rush
moves and is very raw with his hands. Average
instincts for the position. Lacks power and
good functional playing strength. Inconsistent
effort.
Summary: Converted high school safety who
is still learning the game. Has the raw physical
tools to develop, but will require patience.

DE CALAIS

CAMPBELL (Junior)

(6-734, 290, 5.12) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Name is pronounced Ca-LAY-is. Set a


Colorado state record with 57 career sacks as a
prep. He also lettered in track and field and basketball, averaging 22.7 points, 16.0 rebounds
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

and 3.3 blocked shots. Redshirted in 2004. Started 1-of-12 games behind Bryan Pata in 05 and
totaled 35 tackles, 512 tackles for loss and 212
sacks with eight pass breakups and one forced
fumble. Played in all 13 games in 06, starting
12, and compiled 84-2012-1012, 17 QB pressures,
four batted balls and three forced fumbles. Started all 12 games in 07, compiling 50-1212-6 with
two batted balls, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception.
Positives: A physical marvel with the rare
blend of size, body length and athletic ability to
dominate. Bends naturally, has good feet and
moves well for his size. Physically imposing and
dominates in flashes. Can plow through reach
blocks. Can play over the top and swim past
blockers. Closes fast from the backside with his
long strides. Possesses natural strength to hold
the edge. Offers special-teams value to block
kicks. Can still add bulk to his frame.
Negatives: Does not play to his size or
strength. Not nearly as physically dominant as
he should be. Does not consistently extend his
long arms to separate from and shed blockers.
Plays down to the competition. Needs to finish
better around the ball. Content standing up
blockers in lieu of rushing the passer. Lacks
innate desire and toughness. Smooth-muscled
with little definition. Did not show a live twitch
in his body at the Combine at 290 pounds after
bulking up and ran poorly.
Summary: Played too heavy as a junior and
would be best playing closer to 270 pounds like
he did as a sophomore. He is still raw and has a
high ceiling, and his combination of size and
athletic ability could awe coaches. However, he
really regressed as a junior under a new coaching staff and did not receive the hard coaching he
needs to fulfill his immense potential.

DT GEORGE

CHUKWU

(6-034, 312, 5.0e) RICE

Notes: Also lettered in track and field as a


prep and was a Texas regional qualifier in the
discus. Redshirted in 2003. Played all 11 games
in 04 and posted 14 tackles and two tackles for
loss. Also competed in indoor track, throwing a
season-best 45 feet 534 inches in the shotput. In
05, started 6-of-11 games two at defensive
tackle and served as an injury replacement at
nose guard for four starts totaling 30-112.
Moved to defensive end and started all 13 games
in 06, securing 29-8 and one sack. Had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee and right shoulder, respectively, following the 05 and 06 seasons. Moved inside and started all 12 games at
nose tackle in 07, logging 29-6-1 with one batted ball and two blocked kicks.
Positives: Has a compact, solid build with
wide shoulders. Plays with natural leverage.
Good upfield quickness and burst. Flashes the
ability to disrupt the backfield. Nice instincts.
Locates the ball and runs to it. Got upfield
quickly at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game

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and played behind the line. Solid character.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height and bulk and
struggles to hold the point vs. the double team.
Lets his pads rise and can be washed off the ball.
Not a great athlete.
Summary: Has played out of position
throughout his college career, even seeing time
at linebacker to help the team, but his best
chance to compete will come as an upfield penetrator.

NT RICHARD

CLEBERT

(5-1178, 316, 5.1e) SOUTH FLORIDA

Notes: Pulled from redshirt in 2004 to appear


in the final three games of the season due to
injuries along with defensive line. Recorded four
tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack. Started
7-of-12 games in 05 and tallied 16-312-12 and a
forced fumble. Missed three games with a groin
injury. Started 2-of-10 games in which he played
in 06, missing three early-season contests and
playing out the season with a groin tear. Compiled 22-2-1 and a fumble recovery. Played in all
13 games in 07, starting 11, and secured 35-9123 with a blocked kick.
Positives: Has a low center of gravity and natural leverage to hold the point. Can get underneath blockers, push the pocket and flush the
quarterback.
Negatives: Not quick and shows limited closing burst. Shows little creativity as a pass rusher.
Does not use his hands well. Short-armed. Late
to find the ball. Wears down in the fourth quarter.
Summary: Could warrant interest as a shortarea plugger in a 4-3 front.

DE JOE

CLERMOND

(6-178, 249, 5.17) PITTSBURGH

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school. Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 12
games in 04, starting one, and compiled 27
tackles and two tackles for loss with one fumble
recovery. Saw action in 10 games as a reserve
defensive end in 05, totaling 14-5 and two
sacks. Started all 12 games in 06, amassing 481612-512 with two fumble recoveries. Arrested in
July 07 after a car in which he was riding was
pulled over and found to have marijuana in it.
Initially charged with possession of marijuana,
but charges have since been dropped. Started all
12 games in the fall, compiling 53-13-1012 with
one batted ball, two forced fumbles and one
fumble recovery.
Positives: Good snap-to-whistle effort and
consistency. Good backside pursuit. Good sack
production showed improvement as a senior.
Negatives: Will struggle vs. better competition (see Virginia, Rutgers games). Limited
pass-rush arsenal and can be negated by a strong
initial punch. Gets stonewalled vs. bigger blockers. Lacks functional strength and size and struggles to sustain vs. the run. Does not show the
strength to power through blockers or push the

pocket. Minimal explosiveness. Questionable


instincts. Ran very poorly at the Combine.
Summary: Undersized, one-dimensional pass
rusher whose lack of burst showed up at the
Combine and will likely eliminate any draft
hopes. His play speed is faster and could give
him a chance.

DT LANDON

COHEN

(6-034, 277, 5.08) OHIO

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Started


3-of-11 games as a true freshman in 2004 at nose
guard and tallied 14 tackles, two tackles for loss
and a sack. Started all 11 games in 05 at defensive tackle, compiling 28-9-112. Started all 14
games in 06 and secured 40-14-212 and a forced
fumble. Started all 12 games in 07, recording
59-1212-112 with one batted ball, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
Positives: Is athletic and carries his pads well.
Flashes some strength in his hands. Can push the
pocket.
Negatives: Too short. Lacks bulk and bulk
strength. Has faced marginal competition. Shortstepper. Plays too upright. Marginal sack production.
Summary: Needs to get bigger and stronger,
but has enough athletic ability to warrant developing.

DE-OLB SHAWN

CRABLE

(6-478, 245, 4.62) MICHIGAN

Notes: Parade All-American. Also lettered in


basketball and track as a prep. Was clocked in
the 100 meters at 10.7 seconds. Suffered a shoulder injury during fall camp and redshirted the
2003 season. Played in nine games in 04 and
registered seven tackles, one tackle for loss and
one sack with two pass breakups. Saw action in
all 12 games at strong-side linebacker in 05 and
compiled 14-3-3 with three pass breakups. Started 8-of-13 games in 06, giving way to nickel
defenses, and logging 37-1012-412 with three pass
breakups and one fumble recovery. Named a
team captain and started 12-of-13 games again
at Sam backer in 07, giving way to a nickel
defense vs. Penn State, and amassed 90-2812-712,
adding one pass breakup, four forced fumbles,
and one fumble recovery. Ranked second nationally and set a school single-season record for
tackles for loss.
Positives: Natural athlete with exceptional
behind-the-line production. Has a frame to grow
into. Can take on and shed blocks with
grapevine-like 3458-inch arms. Shows good
quickness and balance. Relentless in pursuit of
the ballcarrier. Times up blitzes well. Explosive
tackler. Solid coverage defender. Can take hard
coaching.
Negatives: Too undisciplined. Lacks bulk and
lower-body strength to anchor and set the edge.
Can be run at. Tweener not sudden as a pass
rusher off edge and lacks great agility to move in
reverse and play in space as a linebacker. Shows
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some tightness in his hips, plays tall and struggles to dip around the corner. Will overpursue
and give up backside contain. Not a well-versed
pass rusher.
Summary: Long-limbed, rangy hybrid linebacker-defensive end who could bulk up to better control the line of scrimmage and withstand
a pounding at the next level. Could warrant
looks on the strong side in a 4-3 defense and as
a 3-4 rush linebacker. Has overcome a lot of
adversity in his life, having come up through the
foster system and raised himself since entering
college. Will be best in a structured, supportive
environment.

DE JOHNNY

DINGLE (Junior)

(6-138, 265, 4.98) WEST VIRGINIA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Signed with Florida out of high school in 2003
but did not qualify. Enrolled at West Virginia in
January 04 and redshirted in the fall. Appeared
in all 12 games as a reserve in 05, notching 13
tackles, 312 tackles for loss and three sacks.
Started 6-of-12 games in which he played in 06
at defensive end (four) and defensive tackle
(two), missing the Connecticut contest with an
ankle sprain suffered the week prior vs. Syracuse. Finished with 18-512-3 and a forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 07 at defensive end
and secured 48-19-9 with three batted balls, two
forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
Positives: Shows some athletic ability and
quickness. Flashed the ability to leverage the
edge and come underneath blockers vs. Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. Has solid production.
Runs to the ball.
Negatives: Too short and short-armed. Limited burst and closing speed. Needs to get stronger
and improve vs. the run. Not a strong point-ofattack player. Is best when assignments are kept
simple and will take time to process what he sees
if asked to read and react. Questionable toughness. Overaged and will be a 25-year-old rookie.
Immature, high-maintenance and could be difficult to manage.
Summary: Classic tweener who lacks the
burst and edge speed desired on the outside and
the bulk strength to be functional on the inside.
Best chance may come by bulking up and moving inside. Age, character concerns and a poor
Combine performance will likely leave him
undrafted.

DLE-DT MARCUS

DIXON

(6-4, 292, 5.33) HAMPTON

Notes: Also lettered in basketball, baseball


and track, placing third in the Georgia state
regionals in the shotput and discus. Signed with
Vanderbilt out of high school, but the scholarship was rescinded following felony child
molestation and misdemeanor statutory rape
charges in 2003. Was accused of rape by his
underaged 15-year-old girlfriend, who was medically evaluated and found to have vaginal bruisw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ing, a cut lip and bruised arms. Jury acquitted


him of rape, aggravated assault, false imprisonment and sexual battery, but convicted him on
the molestation and statutory-rape charges. Was
sentenced to 10 years in prison on the molestation charge. In May 04, the Georgia Supreme
Court overturned the charge because it was
proven the sex was consensual and the prosecution apparently pursued a conviction on the
harsher molestation charge, which carried a 10year sentence, rather than indicting on the lesser
one-year charge for statutory rape. Upon this
reversal, he had already served one year in
prison and was released after having served sufficient time on the lesser charge. Enrolled at
Hampton as a true freshman in the fall of 04 and
started the final 6-of-12 games, logging 38 tackles, nine tackles for loss and three sacks. Started
9-of-10 games in which he played in 05, missing two contests with an injured ankle, and registered 33-7-212, two forced fumbles and one
interception. In 06, started 11-of-12 games and
tallied 25-512-4. Started all 11 games in 07,
recording 58-16-6, two batted balls, two forced
fumbles, one fumble recovery and one blocked
kick. Has been a team captain.
Positives: Has a strong trunk and a frame to
get bigger. Plays with some pop in his hands and
can shed blockers and get an edge. Flashes some
quickness to flatten down the line. Very good
production. Vocal leader.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Needs to spend more time in the weight room
and get stronger. Can be late to find the ball. Not
explosive. Marginal pass rusher. Does not play
with great bend.
Summary: Very thickly built five-technique
who will be knocked off some draft boards for
character concerns, but he has enough size and
strength to warrant interest in a 3-4 front. Fits
best inside for a 4-3 defense.

DT GLENN

DORSEY

(6-112, 297, 5.0e) LSU

Notes: Parade All-American as a prep and the


Louisiana Class 4A Defensive Player of the
Year. Started 3-of-12 games as a true freshman
in 2004 and finished with 18 tackles and four
tackles for loss. In 05, played in all 13 games,
starting one, and tallied 28 tackles, four for loss
and three sacks in a rotation with St. Louis Rams
06 third-round pick Claude Wroten and Buffalo
Bills 06 fifth-round pick Kyle Williams. Started
all 13 games in 06 at both left (four) and right
(nine) defensive tackle despite a stress fracture
in his right tibia and racked up 42-812-3. Did not
participate in 07 spring practice while recovering from the stress fracture and had to wear a
bone stimulator extensively to heal the injury.
Started all 14 games in the fall, but suffered a
severe right knee sprain as the result of an illegal
chop block vs. Auburn. Played the remainder of
the season with a brace on the right knee, and
aggravated the injury vs. Alabama. Also played

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DT LIONEL

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correct bowleggedness as a child. Did not attend


the Senior Bowl or test at the Combine, raising
concerns about past injuries. Too naive and
could be blinded by the bright lights in a big city.
Summary: A ball of relentless energy and
power off the snap, Dorsey often overwhelms
blockers with his feet and marvelous agility.
Physical talents aside, he possesses outstanding
intangibles passion, toughness, determination
and on-field leadership, and makes everyone
around him better. Durability is a consideration
that could affect his longevity and draft status,
but he has shown he will battle through any
injury.

DOTSON

(6-358, 296, 5.44) ARIZONA

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Started 6-of-7


games in which he played in 04 and finished
with 19 tackles, four tackles for loss and three
sacks. In 05, started 4-of-10 games and registered 21-0-1 and batted down three passes. Started the first 10 games in 06 and racked up 31-21 and a forced fumble, missing the last two
games of the season with a leg injury. Sat out
much of 07 spring practice while rehabbing a
shoulder injury. Started all 12 games in the fall
and registered 50-9-612 with one batted ball and
one forced fumble.
Positives: Naturally athletic. Quick one-gap
penetrator. Shows nice balance, agility and
change of direction. Can bend, and moves very
well for his size. Shows a good short-area burst
to close on the ball and get to the quarterback.

SPORTPICS

through a bruised tailbone and missed most of


the Ole Miss contest with a sore lower back. Finished with 69-1212-7, four pass breakups and one
forced fumble. Won the Bronko Nagurski (best
defensive player), Outland (best interior lineman) and Lott (best character and athletics) trophies and the Lombardi Award (best lineman or
linebacker).
Positives: Plays with outstanding effort and
energy and dominates against the run. Shows
exceptional agility, balance in traffic and lateral
chase speed. Shows great in-game perseverance,
effort and intensity and battled courageously
through injuries without concern for his longterm health or draft stock. Has a good bubble
and is stout at the line of scrimmage and is not
easily moved. Tough to block moves his feet
incredibly well, plays with great leverage and
controls blockers. Can anchor against and split
the double-team. Shows great quickness and
anticipation and can also overpower defenders at
the snap. Strong wrap tackler. Very active hands
and is tough to engage. Shows pass-rush ability
and will rip under and spin off blocks to penetrate. Excellent character with a team-first attitude. Leads by example plays with a warriors mentality and has a high tolerance for
pain. Very mentally and physically tough. Excellent work ethic. Elevates the play of his teammates.
Negatives: Is short and not a great pass rusher from the inside. Plagued by leg injuries
sprained knee as a senior and a stress fracture in
right leg as a junior and wore metal braces to

Glenn Dorsey

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Shows an improved understanding and feel for
the game. Plays with high energy. Flashed some
quickness at the East-West Shrine game.
Negatives: Plays too tall and loses leverage.
Undersized and lacks the functional strength to
control blockers can get engulfed by larger
blockers. Needs to improve his hand use to shed.
Durability has been an issue missed time with
neck, ankle, shoulder and hamstring injuries.
Average production.
Summary: Showed no long speed at the Combine, but was fairly quick over 10 yards and
flashes enough quickness to warrant a chance
inside. Just a guy.

DT KEILEN

DYKES

(6-338, 294, 5.05e) WEST VIRGINIA

Notes: Totaled 2712 sacks over his final two


high school seasons. Redshirted in 2003. Started
the final 6-of-12 games at defensive end in a 3-4
scheme in 04, overtaking incumbent Ernest
Hunter and notching 37 tackles, six tackles for
loss and two sacks. Started all 12 games at
defensive tackle in 05 and finished with 29-8-5.
In 06, started all 13 games and compiled 32-5123. Started all 13 games in 07 and logged 32-43, adding one batted ball, one forced fumble and
three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Looks the part. Has a thick, muscular build with functional strength to control
blockers. Plays the run with a powerful base and
shows strength at the point. Flashes pop in his
punch and can play off blocks. Played through
parts of his senior season with a sprained foot
and is tough. Good team player. Is versatile and
has learned a number of positions.
Negatives: Will rise too tall off the snap and
lose leverage. Gives ground against the doubleteam. Not quick off the ball. Short-stepper does
not accelerate and attack the hole. Struggles to
change direction. Doesnt consistently extend
his arms and use his hands to disengage. Not a
glass-eater. Inconsistent intensity. Plays with little power and got blown off the ball at the EastWest Shrine game, never separating himself.
Summary: Surprisingly not invited to the
Combine, Dykes has the size, strength and body
length to contribute in a 3-4 front or a 4-3 front
as a two-gapper, and his versatility will command interest. Will likely be a rotational backup.

DRE CHRIS

ELLIS

(6-414, 263, 4.78) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Had attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and took medicine for it from second to
sixth grade. Redshirted in 2003 with a torn right
labrum. Played all 13 games in 04 and recorded
33 tackles, 712 tackles for loss and three sacks
with one forced fumble and one recovered fumble. Started 9-of-13 games in 05, tallying 41-116 with four pass breakups, one interception
(returned 29 yards for a score against Georgia
Tech) and two forced fumbles. Started 12-of-13
games in 06, but was suspended for the Georgia
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Tech contest after being arrested and charged


with misdemeanor obstruction of justice. He
allegedly tried to incite a large crowd against
police officers that were arresting teammate Josh
Morgan. When asked by police to stop inciting
the crowd, he refused and was taken into custody
as well. Was also pulled from the Boston College
contest after incurring a personal foul penalty for
shoving TE Ryan Purvis in the back well after
the play had ended. Finished the season with 38812-412 and two forced fumbles. Underwent postseason surgery after tearing his right labrum for
a second time. Sat out 07 spring practice but
recovered to start all 14 games in 07, racking up
53-9-812, six batted balls, one forced fumble and
three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Very active with his hands will
rip, slap and tug to come free. Good sustaining
strength in holding the edge. Stood out vs.
Boston College. Persistent off the edge and will
vary his pass rush. Uses his hands very well to
play off blockers. Will chase to the ball.
Negatives: Lacks discipline. Has average arm
length and plays short-armed. His strength and
explosiveness have been curtailed by shoulder
injuries. Plays with little twitch. Bad-bodied
has a long torso, short arms and struggles to
transfer his speed into power. Limited lowerbody strength gets controlled and tossed
around too easily. Does not show burst or agility
around the corner. Inconsistent effort. Has left
the game in some critical situations and has a
history of personal-foul penalties. Very arrogant.
Character is a concern. Chose not to bench-press
at the Combine and his upper-body strength
needs considerable improvement.
Summary: Lack of discipline, inconsistent
effort and multiple shoulder surgeries are big
reasons for concern and give Ellis a strong bust
factor. Best trait is his hand use and ability to
dictate the pass rush, but he must learn how to
better play the run and get stronger.

NT SEDRICK

ELLIS

(6-012, 309, 5.31) USC

Notes: Played one game as a true freshman in


2003 before suffering a fractured left ankle and
redshirting. Appeared in 11 games in 04 and
totaled two tackles. Started all 13 games in 05,
tallying 50 tackles, eight tackles for loss and 412
sacks and added one forced fumble. Started all
10 games in which he played in 06, missing
three early-season contests with torn right knee
cartilage that required arthroscopic surgery.
Totaled 34-8-412 with three pass breakups, one
forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and a
blocked field goal. Awarded the Morris Trophy
as the best defensive lineman in the league as
voted by the leagues offensive linemen. Started
all 13 games in 07, compiling 58-1212-812 with
seven batted balls and two fumble recoveries.
Named the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year.
Positives: Built like a tank with broad shoulders and a powerful base. Possesses great func-

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Sedrick Ellis

l USC

tional strength and owns the line of scrimmage. A


rock at the point of attack. Flashes the ability to
toss blockers aside. Plays with natural leverage
and can collapse the pocket. Consistently makes
his presence felt by penetrating the backfield.
Shows a variety of pass-rush moves. Very quickhanded to slap away defenders hands. Plays with
great leverage off the ball and gets under blockers. Shows the core strength to man two-gaps and
split the double-team. Aggressive chasing laterally vs. the run. Very instinctive quick to diagnose and locate the ball and can gain an advantage at the snap. Great body control and balance.
Has strong hands and shows the ability to control
blockers. Well-respected team leader.
Negatives: Lacks great height. Will play tall
vs. the double-team. Does not have great change
of direction and closing speed, and will lose battles vs. the ballcarrier in confined spaces. Will
give up his body at times and does not always
play square. Does not have the frame to add much
more weight or bulk. Weight has fluctuated. Can
be too reliant on strength and will lean on muscle
over technique. Can be overaggressive shooting
gaps and take himself out of plays. Does not show
a lot of violence in his hands. Has been dinged up
and has missed some time with injuries.
Summary: Chose to participate in the Senior
Bowl and put on a show. Easily the most dominant player at Senior Bowl practices, and punctuated the week with a stellar game. Fits best as a
nose tackle in a 3-4 or 4-3 defense. A top-15 pick.

NT DAVID

FAAETEETE

(6-112, 310, 5.3 E) OREGON

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track


and field as a prep, finishing fourth in the Ore-

gon state championship in the discus (167 feet 6


inches). Appeared in eight games as a true freshman in 2004 and secured seven tackles, 312 tackles for loss and one sack. Played in 10 games as
a reserve in 05, notching 3-2-0 and a forced
fumble. Played in all 13 games in 06, starting
seven as an injury replacement for Cole Linehan, and totaled 17-512-112. Started all 13 games
in 07 and posted 19-8-2, two batted balls, two
forced fumbles and a blocked kick.
Positives: Naturally strong. Very strong in the
lower body and can anchor vs. the double-team.
Excellent weight-room strength was the programs only 600-pound squatter. Plays physical.
Has the bull strength to move the pocket. Tough
and competitive.
Negatives: Has battled through knee and foot
injuries. Lacks great instincts and can be late to
find the ball. Motor does not always run. Could
do a better job of using his hands and fending off
blocks.
Summary: Not as athletic as Bengals 2007
sixth-round pick DT Matt Toeaina (now with the
Bears) but is strong and athletic enough to command the double-team and could fit as a rotational nose tackle in a 4-3 front.

NT CARLOS

FELICIANO

(6-458, 310, 5.42) MARYLAND

Notes: Also lettered in track and basketball as


a prep. Saw limited action in four games as a
true freshman in 2004 as a reserve nose tackle.
Appeared in all 11 games in 04, registering 11
tackles with one batted ball. Played in all 13
games in 06, starting seven, and tallied 20 tackles, 112 tackles for loss and one sack. Started all
13 games in 07 and posted 42-312-0 and two batted balls.
Positives: Very good size with a thick trunk.
Tough competitor. Will battle and scrap. Solid
character. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Lacks strength for his size. Has
short arms. Limited athletically. Plays tall, is
controlled easily and spends too much time on
the ground. Shows little awareness.
Summary: Strictly a size prospect who could
provide mass in the middle for a 3-4 front.

DT ANDRE

FLUELLEN

(6-178, 296, 5.05e) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Saw action in all 12 games in 2004 as


a reserve and logged six tackles and one tackle
for loss. Started 12-of-13 games in 05 opposite
Eagles 06 first-round pick Brodrick Bunkley
and racked up 26-712 and three sacks. Missed a
game with a bicep injury. Emerged in 06 to start
all 13 games, two at tackle and 11 at nose guard
as an injury replacement for Paul Griffin and
registered 28-8 and one-half sack. Played with a
cracked rib as a junior and did not miss any time.
Started 5-of-10 games in which he played in 07
in a rotation with junior DT Letroy Guion, missing three games with a hyperextended elbow in
addition to hand and hamstring injuries. Finw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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ished with 21-2-2 and two pass breakups. Did
not work out at the Combine because of a pulled
left quad.
Positives: Very athletic. Durable and will play
through injuries. Plays with very good functional strength. Shows some quickness at the snap to
swing his hips in the hole.
Negatives: Lacks bubble and lower-body
strength. Struggles to sustain at the line of scrimmage and too easily gets knocked off the ball.
Too top-heavy. Does not use his hands to play
off blocks. Can be physically overwhelmed.
Struggles to keep his feet stuck in the ground vs.
the run. Injuries must be assessed has been
dinged up a lot throughout career.
Summary: Handicapped by injuries as a
senior, but showed toughness enduring the season and strength battling inside as an undersized
tackle. Opened some eyes at the Senior Bowl
and has some potential to develop.

DT-DLE ERIC

FOSTER

(6-118, 273, 5.0e) RUTGERS

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted as a linebacker in 2003. Moved to
defensive end and played in all 11 games in 04,
totaling 22 tackles, two tackles for loss and 112
sacks. Played two games in 05 and tallied 8-212
and one-half sack before sustaining a seasonending left anterior cruciate ligament tear
against Villanova. Kicked inside to defensive
tackle in 06 and started all 13 games, compiling
51-14-6 and four batted balls. Started all 13
games in 07 and logged 64-15-7, adding one
interception and two forced fumbles. Two-time
team captain.
Positives: Quick upfield at the snap. Is
instinctive and locates the ball quickly. Versatile
and has lined up inside and oustide. Very tough.
Great competitor. Emotional leader. Great effort
and energy. Elevates the play of his teammates.
Good lateral chase pursuit.
Negatives: Is short and undersized for the
interior. Needs to add bulk and lower-body
strength to better handle the double-team. Struggles to stack the point and can be covered up and
eliminated by size. Lacks power.
Summary: Finished the season strong and
showed some potential when he moved to the
edge at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game. A
classic tweener who needs to be slanting and
stunting and playing angles to be effective.
Would fit best with a team like the Colts or
Eagles.

DRE-OLB JEREMY

GEATHERS (Junior)

(6-218, 256, 4.98) UNLV

Notes: Father, Jumpy, played defensive line


for 13 NFL seasons with the New Orleans Saints
(1984-89), Washington Redskins (1990-92),
Atlanta Falcons (1993-95) and Denver Broncos
(96). Uncle, Robert Geathers Sr., was selected
by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the
1981 draft. Cousin, Robert Geathers Jr., was
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

selected in the fourth round of the 2004 draft by


the Cincinnati Bengals and has played four seasons (2004-07) at both defensive end and linebacker. Jeremy attended Butler (Kan.) Community College in 05. Transferred to UNLV in 06
and started 10-of-11 games in which he played
at both DE spots, missing the Air Force contest.
Recorded 32 tackles, 912 tackles for loss, 512
sacks with three forced fumbles and two fumble
recoveries. Played in all 12 games in 07, starting 11 after being suspended for the first half vs.
New Mexico for undisclosed reasons. Totaled
40-612-512 with one batted ball, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Good upper-body strength
bench-pressed 225 pounds 29 times at the Combine. Shows some quickness. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Has a barrel shape and does not
play strong. Average production. Marginal
instincts struggles to find the ball. Rushes
straight up the field and shows little awareness
or feel for plays unfolding. Runs himself out of
plays.
Summary: Poor 40-time at the Combine will
keep him from being drafted. Does not show the
edge quickness, flexibility or play strength to fit
as a 3-4 rush linebacker. Just a guy.

DRE-OLB VERNON

GHOLSTON (Junior)

(6-3, 266, 4.67) OHIO STATE

Notes: Switched from linebacker to defensive


end when he arrived on campus as a true freshman in 2004 and made appearances in six games
as a reserve at the position. Was fighting for a
starting job in 05 until he broke his left hand in
the season opener and redshirted the season.
Started all 13 games in 06, amassing 49 tackles,
15 tackles for loss and 712 sacks with one interception. Started 12-of-13 games in which he
played in 07, giving way to a three-man front
and nickel defense to open vs. Purdue. Finished
with 37-1512-14 and one forced fumble en route
to Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year honors.
Positives: Layered with muscle and built like
a Greek god. A special blend of power and
speed. Very quick-twitched. Easily the strongest
player pound-for-pound at the Combine. Plays
with a low pad level and good leverage can
get under and walk blockers into the backfield.
Has very long arms and is difficult for blockers
to engage. Can get up the field before he is even
touched. Can easily turn the corner. Can transfer
speed into power and blast through and beat the
double-team. Changes direction, redirects and is
adept in coverage. Can dominate better competition and rise to the occasion (see Michigan and
Wisconsin games). Shows good awareness in
zone drops and sinks under route. Very productive. Lit up the Combine, tying Michigans Jake
Long for the most bench-press reps.
Negatives: Unrefined talent. Lacks game-togame consistency and does not always play

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ty, he could be a perennial Pro Bowler and one
of the most dominant players in the game. Oozing with upside, he could fit as a 3-4 rush linebacker or a 4-3 right defensive end and will
command double-teams.

DLE WALLACE

GILBERRY

SPORTPICS

(6-214, 268, 4.99) ALABAMA

Vernon Gholston

l OHIO STATE

hard. Does not have great instincts or a fiery onfield demeanor. Shows some tightness in his
hips. Motor does not always run. Can be too
aggressive in collapsing down on play-action
fakes and give up contain. Could be more consistently strong and play with better leverage vs.
the run. Does not have great football intelligence
and takes some time to process what he sees.
Showed some tightness in his movement in LB
drills at the Combine.
Summary: Over the past two seasons, Gholston has dominated Big Ten play and produced
more sacks than anyone in the country, overpowering even Jake Long. A rare combination of
strength, power and speed, he shows excellent
twitch and can explode off the edge when he
wants to. Might turn off some coaches with his
quiet, cerebral demeanor but is coachable and
has all the physical ability to be molded into an
elite pass rusher. Like too many supremely talented pass rushers, his motor does not always
go, but most of his flaws are correctable and
with good coaching and more consistent intensi-

Notes: Was Mike Shulas first signee at


Alabama and redshirted in 2003. Saw action in
every game in 04, backing up at the DLE spot
and notching 28 tackles, a team-leading 13 tackles for loss and 612 sacks. Also forced and recovered two fumbles and batted down six balls.
Started all 12 games there again in 05, finishing
with 37-10-112 and a fumble recovery. Started all
13 games in 06 and tallied 43-1012-312 with a
forced fumble and batted ball. Started all 13
games in 07, amassing 80-27-10, two batted
balls and two fumble recoveries. Led the Southeastern Conference and ranked third nationally
in tackles for loss.
Positives: Plays the run well and can hold his
ground. Hustles to the ball and makes plays with
strong pursuit. Great effort. Strong tackler.
Improved hand use.
Negatives: Very tight in the hips. Lacks upperbody strength. Not quick off the ball or to disengage from blocks and often arrives late at the
ball. Average instincts and athletic ability. Lacks
edge speed and burst. Not sudden. Needs to
learn to work in the weight room and get
stronger. Limited upside. Was overmatched at
the Senior Bowl.
Summary: Classic tweener who took some
strides in one season under Nick Saban and
learned how to use his hands better. However, as
a left defensive end, he shows limited pass-rush
ability and could create more pressure from the
inside, where he could outmatch guards with his
quickness, if he could bulk up and get stronger.

DT LETROY

GUION (Junior)

(6-338, 303, 5.38) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Started 1-of-10 games in which he


played as a true freshman in 2005 as a reserve
behind Andre Fluellen. Finished with 10 tackles
and 112 tackles for loss. Started the final 5-of-12
games in which he played in 06 in a rotation with
Alex Boston and Budd Thacker, and tallied 25-4
and one-half sack, along with one forced fumble.
Missed the Troy contest with a right ankle sprain.
Started 8-of-12 games in which he played in 07
as an injury replacement for Fluellen and posted
31-612-1 with one batted ball and two fumble
recoveries. Did not play in the Music City Bowl
vs. Kentucky due to unspecified team violations.
Nicknamed Baloo from Disneys The Jungle
Book for his burly, unassuming, country-simple
demeanor. Pulled his right quad at the Combine
and did not finish testing.
Positives: Good athlete. Has a nice-sized
frame and can get bigger. Plays hard and competes. Can be disruptive and penetrate gaps.
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Shows good movement down the line and can
close on the ball.
Negatives: Never made a significant impact,
only emerging as a starter due to injury. Not
overly productive. Has a tendency to rise out of
his stance and lose leverage. Lacks the base
strength to handle the double-team. Lacks takeon strength and is easily neutralized when he
lines up head-up. Average hand use. Does not
consistently win battles in the trenches and
needs to win off the snap. Does not make many
plays outside the tackle box. Average closing
burst. Had the worst 10-yard times of any defensive tackle at the Combine. Was suspended from
bowl game. Easily influenced.
Summary: Showed some signs when given an
opportunity to start in place of the injured Andre
Fluellen, but could take a few years to get acclimated to the pro game, and would have been
helped by another year in school. May not figure
it out until his second contract and will require a
team to be patient. Best when responsibilities are
kept simple.

DLE GREYSON

GUNHEIM

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

(6-512, 255, 4.85 E) WASHINGTON

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Broke into the lineup and started the final 7-of-11
games as a true freshman in 2004, securing 18
tackles, 312 tackles for loss and 112 sacks. Started
all 11 games in 05 and compiled 38-13-5. Hurt
his right knee in 06 fall practice but returned in
time for the season opener and started 10-of-12
games, logging 44-14-6 and three forced fumbles.
Started all 13 games in 07 and registered 41-11612, adding three batted balls and one interception.
Positives: Has long levers. Plays hard and
gives good effort. Is disciplined. Can knife into
the backfield and make some plays. Solid wrap
tackler. Good intensity. Has been very durable.
Team player. Has a passion for the game.
Negatives: Has a linear build and plays too
upright and gets outleveraged. Tight-hipped and
slow-footed. Lacks strength at the point and can
be folded against the run. Could do a better job
of using his hands to play off blocks.
Summary: Is best when he is slanting and
angling and on the move, but his lack of play
strength, leverage and pass-rush ability will limit
his chances.

DRE ALEX

HALL

(6-434, 238, 4.81) ST. AUGUSTINES (N.C.)

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted as a tight end in 2003. Converted to
defensive end and started 5-of-10 games in 04.
Started all 10 games in 05 and collected 53
tackles, 20 tackles for loss and six sacks with
one forced fumble. Started all 10 games in 06,
recording 53-19-13. Started all nine games in
which he played in 07, missing the Virginia
Union game with a neck stinger, totaling 46-157 with two batted balls and a forced fumble.
Positives: Converted tight end with some natw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ural athleticism. Good effort and energy. Runs to


the ball. Good game-day competitor. Can win
with quicks.
Negatives: Faced marginal competition.
Lacks bulk and bulk strength and will struggle to
hold the point vs. NFL tackles. Too one-dimensional. Needs to spend more time in the weight
room. Needs to learn how to use his hands better
to rip off blocks. Not a great practice player.
Summary: Productive, developmental pass
rusher who is still growing into his body and has
the frame and athletic ability to warrant further
development.

DRE-PRS RUDOLPH

HARDIE

(6-238, 270, 4.75e) HOWARD

Notes: Walked on and redshirted in 2003.


Appeared in three games in 04, posting three
tackles and one tackle for loss via the sack.
Started 2-of-11 games in 05 and recorded 20512-2. In 06, started all 11 games, amassing 5422-10. Suffered a left knee injury late in the season. Started all 11 games in 07, amassing 6025-12 and adding one batted ball, three forced
fumbles and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Has long arms and good weightroom strength. Plays hard. Makes plays on effort
and hustle. Good first-step quickness and initial
burst. Closes hard to the ball. Great work ethic.
Outstanding production.
Negatives: Struggles to keep his cleats in the
ground and too often gets pushed around. Is late
to find the ball and is not very instinctive. Gets
run wide of the pocket and struggles to leverage
the edge. Has not faced top competition.
Summary: Overachieving, small-school talent
with some natural pass-rush ability. Bulked up
and played the run better as a senior and flashed
functional strength at the Texas vs. the Nation
all-star game.

DLE CHRIS

HARRINGTON

(6-438, 264, 4.87) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Uncle, Dave Elmendorf, was selected


by the Los Angeles Rams out of Texas A&M in
the third round of the 1971 NFL draft, played
nine seasons (1971-1979) and currently serves
as the Aggies color commentator on radio
broadcasts. Chris redshirted in 2003. Appeared
in all 12 games in 04, tallying 14 tackles, three
tackles for loss and two sacks. Missed the Cotton Bowl with a hip flexor injury. Started all 11
games in 05 and totaled 25-8-4. As a team captain in 06, started all 13 games and racked up
59-1112-712 and two forced fumbles. Underwent
postseason surgery for a torn right rotator cuff
and did not play in the 07 spring game. Recovered in time to play in all 13 games in 07, starting 12, and finished with 58-7-2 plus one batted
ball, two fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles
and one blocked kick.
Positives: Very good size. Is instinctive and
locates the ball quickly. Reads hats and reacts.
Quick to sniff out the run. Good functional play-

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DT MARCUS

HARRISON

(6-234, 317, 5.08) ARKANSAS

Notes: Spent a year at Hargrave Military


Academy (Va.) prior to enrolling at Arkansas.
First true freshman position player to start the
season opener for the Razorbacks since 1982.
Started 10-of-11 games at bandit defensive end
in 04, totaling 31 tackles and 212 tackles for loss
with one batted ball and a fumble recovery.
Switched to defensive tackle with the arrival of a
new defensive coordinator, Reggie Herring, in
05. Started 9-of-11 games in 05, racking up
37-5 and one sack with one fumble recovery.
Started 5-of-12 games in 06, notching 42-312-112
with one batted ball and one fumble recovery.
Had his knee scoped early in the season and lost
his starting job while he was recovering. Tore his
left ACL in spring ball of 07 and had surgery.
Started 10-of-12 games in which he played in
07 and tallied 76-612-112, 10 batted balls and one
forced fumble, but was suspended for the season
opener vs. Troy following a late August arrest.
Pulled over for speeding and found to be in possession of an ecstasy pill and two cigars that tested positive for marijuana. Charged with felony
possession of a controlled substance, speeding,
driving with a restricted drivers license and not
wearing a seat belt. Also cited for failing to
appear for a previous court date. Pleaded not
guilty on all but the speeding charge.
Positives: Very good size. Is athletic and
shows good balance. Good hand punching off
the snap and disengage from blocks. Fights off
the double-team. Shows good balance and handeye coordination is adept at disrupting the
quarterbacks vision and knocking down passes
(nine batted balls as a senior). Plays with a load
in his hands and can press off blocks and work
the edges. Feels pressure well and reacts off it.
Negatives: Not an accomplished pass rusher
(four career sacks). Durability is a question
mark, having had multiple knee injuries. Not
smart and lacks focus. Character is suspect.
Plays too small. Talks too much.
Summary: Flashed considerable promise after

opening the 06 campaign on a tear, but has yet


to regain that same form since suffering a pair of
knee injuries, and has further hurt his case following an arrest on drug charges in the late summer of 07 in the weeks leading up to the season
opener. Nonetheless, has begun to round into
form and is showing flashes that generated attention his way as a junior, flashing at the Senior
Bowl and appearing very agile and flexible in
Combine drills. A boom-or-bust prospect who
will likely fit as a three-technique in an upfield,
penetrating defense.

DE DERRICK

HARVEY (Junior)

(6-458, 271, 4.86) FLORIDA

Notes: Named Maryland Gatorade Player of


the Year and USA Today second-team All-American after racking up 150 tackles, a state-record
31 sacks and five forced fumbles as a high
school senior, this after playing football for the
first time as a junior. Also lettered in basketball.
Redshirted in 2004. Appeared in nine games as a
reserve in 05 and notched seven tackles, one
tackle for loss and one sack. Started only 5-of-14
games in 06 in a rotation with Steven Harris and
49ers 07 third-round pick Ray McDonald, yet
compiled 35-13-11
and three fumble
recoveries, highlighted by three sacks and
a Defensive MVP
selection
in
the
National
Championship game vs. Ohio
State. Started all 13
games in 07 and
racked up 49-17-812,
five batted balls and
one forced fumble.
Positives:
Very
good athletic ability Derrick Harvey l FLORIDA
with quick feet, balance and bend to dip underneath blockers and
penetrate. Outstanding take-off quickness. Can
run, accelerate upfield and close on the quarterback. Shows good strength in his hands and outleverages bigger blockers (see Michigan game).
Good balance and coordination to fight through
trash and stay on his feet. Can squeeze the edge
and contain vs. the outside run. Has good closing burst and ability to trim the edge. Plays with
intensity.
Negatives: Could do a better job of keeping
his shoulders square against the run. Lacks great
anchor strength and can be neutralized when he
is aligned head-up. Exposes his chest and struggles some to disengage. Didnt have great sack
production. Has little experience moving in
reverse. Bulked up and appeared to lose a halfstep at the Combine.
Summary: Appeared too straight-linish in LB
drills at the Combine to transition easily to the
OLB spot in a 3-4 defense, but could bring value
as a pass rusher from either side. Best fit will
LES BENTLEY

ing strength. Can anchor vs. the run. Plays disciplined and keeps his outside shoulder clean
while containing. Can walk back tackles and has
a strong bull-rush move. Great second effort and
surge. Hustles and chases in pursuit. Strong,
forceful tackler. Plays with a lot of intensity.
Works hard. Great production. Tough. Vocal
leader. Challenges teammates. Has a passion for
the game.
Negatives: Limited pass-rush ability. Not initially quick or explosive off the ball and struggles to turn the corner. Not a great athlete. Does
not show great finishing speed.
Summary: Dependable, self-made overachiever with enough athleticism and agility to
develop into a solid pro. Intelligence, intensity
and high effort are all positives and could win
the hearts of throwback, old-school coaches.

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come on the left side in a 4-3 defense, where he
has shown he can set the edge and overpower
strong right tackles.

DT-DRE NICK

HAYDEN

(6-378, 291, 5.19) WISCONSIN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Appeared in five games as a true freshman in
2004 and secured one tackle. Started all 13
games in 05, totaling 56 tackles, nine tackles
for loss and 512 sacks with four batted balls and
three fumble recoveries. Started all 13 games in
06, posting 27-4-0. Started all 13 games in 07,
totaling 48-812-412 with two batted balls, three
forced fumbles and a blocked kick.
Positives: Looks the part with a strong, thick
base and can stack the point. Very good snap-towhistle effort chases and never assumes he is
out of a play. Fights down the line on runs away
from his side and shows good agility. Flashes an
effective overhand swim-and-club move. Excellent weight-room strength bench-pressed 225
pounds 34 times at the Combine, leading all
defensive tackles. Solid tackler.
Negatives: Plays with a high pad level, loses
leverage and does not consistently push the
pocket. Not quick or explosive off the ball. Does
not show much punch. Marginal athlete. Lacks
creativity as a pass rusher. Does not show the
burst or bend to close on the quarterback. Plays
heavy-footed and is slow changing direction.
Struggles to beat the double-team. Has an inflated opinion of his ability.
Summary: Best fit could come as a right
defensive end in a 3-4 front where he could best
use his strength to hold blocks, defend the run
and create some push from the corner.

DLE LOUIS

HOLMES

(6-358, 263, 4.88) ARIZONA

Notes: Attended Brighton Academy prep


school in Maine in 2003 following high school
in Florida. Enrolled at Scottsdale (Ariz.) Community College from 2004-05, tallying 192 tackles, 40 tackles for loss and 16 sacks in his twoyear career. Was named a National Junior College Athletics Association first-team All-American in 04 and first-team All-Region in 05.
Enrolled at Arizona in August 06 as a late academic qualifier and started 9-of-12 games in the
fall, recording 36-5-4 with two batted balls, two
forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. Played in
all 12 games in 07, starting 10, and finished
with 37-512-2. Has had multiple run-ins with the
law, including a misdemeanor domestic-violence charge in 05 that resulted in court-ordered
anger-managment courses. In July of 07 was
arrested and charged with criminal damage and
disorderly conduct for a fight at an Arizona
nightclub. Has since pleaded guilty to the criminal damage charge and was again ordered to
attend anger-management courses.
Positives: Very good build and overall muscular development looks the part. Naturally talw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ented. Shows strength to control and come off


blocks. Can push the pocket and be disruptive.
Wrap tackler. Flashes some power. Plays with
emotion.
Negatives: Average instincts does not play
with awareness. Lacks focus and consistency.
Late to locate and react to the ball. Not instinctive. Not natural bending off the edge or quick to
redirect. Plays too tall and can be collapsed vs.
the run. Shows few counter moves. Takes some
foolish penalties and is not disciplined. Not a
strong tackler. Gets hooked and sealed and
struggles to anchor. Questionable character.
Summary: Highly acclaimed former JUCO
transfer never quite figured it out or developed
as expected in two seasons at Arizona. Has natural strength and ability, but lack of instincts,
intelligence and functional strength could prevent him from developing into the starter that his
physical traits suggest he should be. His best
chance will come as a left defensive end.

DLE KENNY

IWEBEMA

(6-4, 274, 4.91) IOWA

Notes: Also lettered in track and field (discus)


as a prep. Entered the program as a 215-pounder
and redshirted in 2003, earning the (scout) Team
Leader Award for the defense in the process.
Registered three tackles in limited action in
2004, suffering an ankle injury in the Capital
One Bowl and leaving the game early. Stepped
into the starting role at defensive end in 05 and
started all 12 games, recording 48 tackles, 10
tackles for loss and seven sacks with a forced
fumble and two blocked kicks, both vs. Illinois.
Notched two sacks vs. Wisconsins Joe Thomas.
Added 20 pounds in the offseason. Missed the
06 season opener vs. Montana with an academic-related team suspension. Returned to start
eight games in a row before suffering a broken
right collarbone that forced him to miss the rest
of the regular season. Recovered in time to play
in the Alamo Bowl and finished the year with
27-412-3 with two batted balls and one fumble
recovery. Started 11 games in 07, missing the
Michigan State contest with a concussion, and
totaled 28-5-312 with two blocked kicks and a
forced fumble.
Positives: Looks the part very solid build.
Possesses incredible playing strength will
manhandle and toss blockers around effortlessly.
Can split the double-team. Uses his hands well
to control and move blockers. Consistently gets
pressure. Strong base and stout at the point.
Runs through tight ends and shows thump as a
hitter. Shows great balance on the inside spin
and good body lean around the corner. Has special-teams value twice blocked two kicks in a
game. Very dependable. Solid character.
Negatives: Does not show great burst off the
ball and is not very sudden. Not well-versed as a
pass rusher does not utilize pass-rush moves
properly. Will try to muscle his way to the quarterback. Lacks great instincts for the position.

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Has attention lapses and can be late off the ball.
Motor does not always go. Lacks closing speed
to the quarterback. Needs to do a better job of
using his hands to disengage.
Summary: Can dominate physically with
uncanny playing strength, but has yet to put it all
together and will never test great in workouts. Was
hampered by injuries as a junior, and coasted
through an average senior season, but dominated
at the East-West Shrine game and flashed the form
that propelled him to notch two sacks vs. Cleveland Browns All-Pro rookie OLT Joe Thomas
(then with Wisconsin) in 05. A big, powerful base
end, Iwebema could be a much better pro than
college player, and possesses the physical tools
that have yet to show up on the stat sheet.

DLE LAWRENCE

JACKSON

(6-414, 271, 4.84) USC

Notes: Brother, Keith, played offensive tackle


at Arizona. Lawrence recorded 57 career sacks
and also lettered in track as a prep. Redshirted in
2003 and earned Scout Team Defensive Player
of the Year honors. Underwent postseason
arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle to
remove debris. Started 12-of-13 games in 04
and recorded 32 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and
six sacks with one pass deflection and one interception. Started all 13 games in 05 and notched
46-13-10, leading the team in sacks, while also
recording six batted balls, four forced fumbles,
two fumble recoveries and one blocked kick.
Started all 13 games in 06 and tallied 43-11-4
with three batted balls, two blocked field goals,
one interception, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Underwent postseason arthroscopic right ankle surgery. Named a team captain in
07 and started all 13 games, finishing with 6017-1012, one fumble recovery, two forced fumbles and three batted balls.
Positives: Looks the part with long arms and a
good frame to add bulk. Is athletic. Is instinctive
and locates the ball quickly. Shows strength and
leverage to stack the point. Is versatile has
moved inside in pass-rush situations and shows
inside pass-rush ability. Flashes a strong punch.
Shows good awareness to read and react on the
move and moves well in space. Smart. Benchpressed 225 pounds 31 times at the Combine.
Negatives: Really struggled vs. Nebraska OLT
Carl Nicks and can be shut down. Not overly
physical and does not play with a lot of power.
Lacks a killer instinct. Gives up too much
ground. Does not have the edge speed or burst to
close to the quarterback. Has been too inconsistent and disappears for long stretches. Lacks
focus and concentration. Plays lazy and does not
give consistent effort. Gets pushed around and is
controlled too easily. Not a forceful tackler. Average hand use. Came off as an arrogant know-itall in team interviews. Scouts say he did not look
natural at all in LB positional drills at the Combine and will struggle to make the transition.
Summary: Will never be an elite pass rusher,

but has the size and strength to defend the run


and could contribute readily as a left defensive
end in a 4-3 front. Has played heavier and has
the type of frame to bulk up and line up as a fivetechnique in a 3-4 front.

DLE ROB

JACKSON

(6-314, 252, 4.94) KANSAS STATE

Notes: Enrolled at Fort Scott (Kan.) Community College in 2004 and notched 45 tackles and
nine sacks in nine games. Totaled 35 tackles,
nine tackles for loss and six sacks in eight games
in 05, while also catching four passes for 90
yards (22.5-yard average) during some time at
tight end. Transferred to Kansas State in 06 and
started 12-of-13 games at right defensive end,
finishing with 36-8-412 and two batted balls.
Played in all 12 games in 07, starting 10, and
notched 25-412-2 and one batted ball.
Positives: Has some size and strength to
defend the run. Good effort and hustle. Runs to
the ball.
Negatives: Not a great athlete. Does not play
fast. Waddles when he runs. Does not show great
hand use. Has strength at the point. Average
instincts. Limited pass-rush ability. Needs a
structured environment and would be best in a
simple scheme.
Summary: Could compete for a job as a left
defensive end but has few distinguishable traits.

DLE BRIAN

JOHNSTON

(6-418, 271, 4.93) GARDNER-WEBB

Notes: Started 7-of-9 games in which he


played as a true freshman at outside linebacker in
2004, recording 58 tackles, five tackles for loss,
two sacks, two batted balls and three forced fumbles. Moved to defensive end in 05, starting all
11 games, and tallied 59-1212-5. In 06, he started
all 11 games and amassed 77-14-8, 23 QB hurries
and two forced fumbles. Started all 11 games at
the DLE spot again in 07, securing 67-20-6 with
three batted balls and one forced fumble. Also
took snaps at tight end. Two-time Big South
Defensive Player of the Year (in 06 and 07).
Positives: Has a good, solid frame. Uses his
hands to come off blocks. Plays hard and chases
to the ball. Shows some pass-rush ability, bend
and balance to leverage the corner. Very good
production.
Negatives: Has not faced top competition.
Too thin in the lower body and lacks anchor
strength. Average arm length. Too high-hipped.
Relies too much on upper-body strength. Topheavy. Lacks foot speed and edge quickness.
Summary: Raw developmental pass rusher
who lacks ideal base strength, arm length and
quickness for the pro game.

DLE-OLB JASON

JONES

(6-514, 273, 4.79) EASTERN MICHIGAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Started 3-of-11 games as a true freshman in
2004 at tight end and registered four receptions
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for 12 yards, before converting to the defensive
line against Central Michigan. Started all 11
games in 05, tallying 47 tackles, 12 tackles for
loss and 612 sacks. Started all 11 games in 06
and registered 57-1812-4. Started 11-of-12 games
in which he played in 07, amassing 70-1912-312,
three batted balls, one forced fumble and one
blocked kick.
Positives: Tremendous arm length 3638
inches was the second-longest of any player
at the Combine. Shows great initial first-step
quickness at the snap, almost violent, to create
penetration and disrupt the backfield. Rises to
the occasion under the bright lights and stood
out vs. Michigan and Vanderbilt and was disruptive at the Senior Bowl. Good balance and coordination. Uses his hands and feet well together.
Very consistent and incredibly productive.
Negatives: Awkward body too high-hipped
and is not a natural bender. Will rise too tall off
the ball and lose leverage. Plays narrow-based.
Not a fiery competitor, and scouts question his
innate toughness. Does not appear as instinctive
from the outside. Can play out of control. Needs
to spend more time in the weight room and get
stronger.
Summary: Played out of position as a senior,
lining up inside as a three-technique at 270
pounds, and showed some explosive pass-rush
ability from the inside. However, best chance
may come at left end in a 4-3 front with the
potential to move inside as a nickel rusher on
passing downs. Is too big, quick and athletic not
to warrant early interest and has received some
looks as a 3-4 outside backer.

NT MICHAEL

LAFAELE

DLE-DT KENDALL

LANGFORD

(6-512, 287, 4.99) HAMPTON

Notes: Four-sport athlete who also lettered in


basketball, baseball and track as a prep. Started
3-of-12 games at defensive tackle as a true freshman in 2004 and secured 44 tackles, 1112 tackles
for loss and six sacks. Started all 12 games in
05, racking up 65-1512-412. Started all 12 games
in 06 and totaled 55-1512-8, one forced fumble
and one blocked kick. Named a team captain and
started all 11 games in 07, totaling 72-1312-6,
one interception, two forced fumbles, one recovered fumble and a blocked kick.
Positives: Plays with power. Naturally big
with the raw power and strength to hold ground.
Good closing speed and balance. Shows some
pop and short-area quickness to generate a push
and make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Has strong hips and good functional core
strength. Plays nasty. Versatile has lined up
inside and outside. Stood out at the East-West
Shrine game. Has a lot of upside.
Negatives: Very raw and unpolished using his
hands. Gets hung up on blocks and struggles to
disengage. Not quick, explosive or instinctive.
Slow to change direction. Gets winded easily
and needs to work on his conditioning.
Summary: May be at least two years away
from contributing and could warrant some looks
as a quick-twitch, upfield three-technique. However, his best fit will likely come as a five-technique in a 3-4 front or a base end in a 4-3 front.
Similar to Jaguars DLE Paul Spicer, who entered
the league as an undrafted free agent in 1998 and
took several years before he caught on in Jaxsonville and developed. His best football is a
head of him.

(5-11, 306, 5.3e) HAWAII

Notes: Married. Also lettered in wrestling as a


prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in nine
games in 04 as a reserve offensive lineman.
Switched to defensive tackle and started the final
9-of-11 games in which he played in 05 at nose
tackle, recording 23 tackles and five tackles for
loss. Started all 14 games in 06 at nose tackle,
registering 32-512 and two sacks. Named a team
captain and started all 12 games in which he
played in 07, missing the Utah State contest
with a strained right hamstring. Finished with
20-212-12 and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Naturally strong. Is a 500-pound
bench presser. Can toss blockers aside. Tough
and competitive. Has leadership traits. Very
determined and disciplined. Solid production.
Negatives: Too inconsistent. Not instinctive
and is late to find the ball. Limited burst. Struggles to split the double-team.
Summary: Has the sheer size, strength and
mass to man the nose. Looked more comfortable
in the 4-3 front the Rainbows ran in 07 than the
3-4 look employed in 06. Not flashy, but consistently generates some push and pressure. Lined
up at center in high school and has the tools to
consider developing on the other side of the line.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

DT TREVOR

LAWS

(6-034, 304, 5.13) NOTRE DAME

Notes: Named a USA Today first-team AllAmerican and Minnesotas Gatorade Player of
the Year as a prep. Earned All-America honors
three times as a wrestler and compiled a 142-5
record, going 49-0 his junior year as the superheavyweight state champion. Also lettered in
track and field, throwing the shotput a careerbest 58 feet. Sat out as a true freshman in 2003
with an unspecified injury. Played all 12 games
in 04 and notched 17 tackles, two tackles for
loss and one sack, adding two pass breakups.
Started all 12 games in 05, compiling 33-3-112.
In 06, started all 13 games and recorded 62-912312. Started all 12 games in 07 and finished with
112-8-4, five batted balls, two fumble recoveries
and three blocked kicks.
Positives: Incredibly active and relentless in
pursuit of the ballcarrier. Great effort in downfield pursuit. Very thickly built. Good athlete for
as wide as he is. Good strength at the point. Is
instinctive and quickly locates the ball. Shows
enough quickness to work through gaps and
make plays. Strong upper body. Will battle
blockers and keep working to come free. Can rip

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DT-NT DEREK

LOKEY

(6-112, 285, 5.15 E) TEXAS

DE-OLB CHRIS

Notes: Married. Father, Eric, earned AllAmerica honors as a linebacker at Stephen F.


Austin. Derek also lettered in basketball and
track and field as a prep, finishing third in the

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

discus at the Texas Class 4A state meet. Saw


action in 10-of-12 games as a true freshman in
2004 and logged 10 tackles, three tackles for
loss and one-half sack. Played in 11 games in
05, behind Miami Dolphins 2006 seventhround draft choice Rodrique Wright, compiling
17-2-1. In 06, started the first eight games of the
season before breaking his right leg against
Nebraska and finished with 24-4-12 and nine QB
pressures. Was able to participate in spring drills
and recovered to start all 13 games in 07, notching 50-9-1 with three batted balls. Graduated in
the spring of 07 with a degree in sports management/pre-law and took the LSAT in June.
Positives: Very strong in the upper body and
can bench-press a small house. Plays with leverage and can anchor vs. the run. Stays on his feet
and hustles to the ball. Can hold ground vs. the
double-team. Has lined up as a blocking back in
short-yardage situations. Great character. Loves
the game.
Negatives: Lacks ideal bulk for the position.
Creates little penetration and is not much of a
pass rusher. Does not have great instincts. Does
not use his hands very well to disengage.
Summary: Undersized, overachieving plugger
with enough toughness, strength and passion to
fight for a roster spot. The type of player coaches will have a difficult time cutting.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

underneath blocks and work the edge. Moves


well laterally. Good competitor. Very active and
flashes some explosiveness. Solid, drive-through
tackler. Very smart, understands the game.
Excellent production led all of the nations
defensive linemen in tackles. Bench-pressed 225
pounds 35 times at the Combine.
Negatives: Too short. Lacks great strength to
anchor, occupy blocks and hold the doubleteam. Struggles to get off blocks and can get
sealed up the middle. Will take some plays off.
Will overpursue and leave his gap, creating cutback lanes. Loses balance on an ineffective spin
move and too often spins in space and struggles
to come free. Often leaves the field on third
downs and is not a great pass rusher seldom
wins at the snap, shows limited pass-rush moves
and counters. Pass rush is chaotic does not
understand how to defeat his blocker and wastes
too much movement.
Summary: Laws high tackle total speaks volumes to his impressive motor and effort, but his
lack of production behind the line of scrimmage
illustrates his struggles beating blockers off the
snap. Played out of position in 07 as an end in a
3-4 front, and as evident in his impressive performance at the Senior Bowl, is better-suited
inside, slanting and attacking gaps in a 4-3 front.

(6-3, 272, 4.81) VIRGINIA

LONG

SPORTPICS

Notes: Father, Howie, amassed 84 career


sacks, eight Pro Bowl berths and four All-AFC
selections as a Hall of Fame defensive end with

Chris Long

l VIRGINIA
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the Oakland Raiders (1981-93) and was a member of the NFLs All-Decade Team of the 1980s.
Chris was named Virginia Gatorade Player of the
Year as a high school senior. Also lettered in
lacrosse, baseball and basketball, winning the
2003 YMCA Slam Dunk contest for high school
students. Appeared in five games as a true freshman in 04, missing five contests with mono,
and logged five tackles, two tackles for loss and
one sack. Started all 12 games in 05 as a defensive end in a 3-4 scheme, tallying 46-10-2, seven
pass breakups and 26 quarterback hurries. In
06, started all 12 games and registered 57-12-4
and 21 QB hurries. Voted team captain and started all 13 games in 07, finishing with 75-19-14,
adding seven batted balls, one interception and a
blocked kick. Named Atlantic Coast Conference
Defensive Player of the Year.
Positives: Outstanding hand use is very
noticeably well-coached and uses his hands and
feet together in unison to set up moves extremely well. Can rip, tug, crack and slap. Tremendous
technician pass-rush moves are executed to
near perfection. Understands how to counter his
blocker and attacks with variety and at different
angles. Excellent motor, instincts and energy.
Explodes out of his stance with a low pad level
and has a very quick first step. Comes off the
edge like a bull and can power his way into the
backfield. Athletic enough to drop in coverage.
Can bring heat off the edge when turned loose
and not playing in the crouched anchor position
that he often uses. Athletic and very effective
shooting through the gap on slants. Strong,
physical tackler. Very impressive leverage and
body strength to anchor vs. the run. Incredibly
strong can power through the double-team.
Plays with power and can control blockers. Very
physically and mentally tough. Absolutely
relentless at the line and in pursuit. A leader. Outstanding intangibles. Great versatility.
Negatives: Showed he could be contained vs.
top competition. Got knocked around by Pittsburghs Jeff Otah and can be outmatched by top
size. Does not have elite edge speed.
Summary: Tremendous leader and football
player that could never allow himself to not be
great. Will get nit-picked from an athleticism
standpoint and criticized for having little upside,
but he more than compensates for any shortcomings with unparalleled effort, tenacity and a
precise, well-honed technique. Understands how
to win his battles and is prepared for every test.
A winner.

DLE BRYAN

MATTISON

(6-278, 290, 5.09) IOWA

Notes: Led his high school rugby team to a


2002 state championship in Indiana. Father is
the DL coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Redshirted in 03 and received the (scout) Team
Leader Award for defense. Saw playing time in
all 12 games in 04, registering five tackles and
one tackle for loss. Had Lisfranc surgery on his
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

left foot in the spring. Bounced back to start all


12 contests in 05, posting 46-10 and four sacks.
Started all 13 games in 06, registering 59-1012612 with six batted balls and four forced fumbles.
Started all 12 games at weak-side defensive end
in 07 and recorded 61-1112-9 with four batted
balls, one forced fumble, four fumble recoveries
and a blocked kick. Two-time team captain.
Positives: Good strength. Can anchor against
the run. Plays hard and leaves everything on the
field. Motor is always running. Plays alert.
Excellent work ethic. Does everything he can to
improve. Strong locker-room presence.
Negatives: Limited athlete. Has short arms,
small hands and is not a natural pass rusher. Not
quick or sudden. Too stiff and mechanical. Struggles fighting through blocks in traffic. Can be
pinned by tight ends and neutralized too easily.
Summary: Tough, high-motor overachiever
with a golden last name in the coaching community. Should get a chance to compete for a job as
a base left end and could win a job with his work
ethic.

DT JAMES

McCLINTON

(6-0, 293, 5.53) KANSAS

Notes: Also lettered in powerlifting and track


as a prep. Appeared in 6-of-11 games in reserve
as a true freshman in 2004 and recorded one-half
tackle. Started 11-of-12 games in 05, totaling
27 tackles, four tackles for loss and one sack. In
06, started all 12 games, amassing 51-1412-6
and three forced fumbles. Started all 13 games in
07, finishing with 93-11-212 and an interception.
Positives: Gives good effort in pursuit and
runs to the ball. One-gap penetrator shows nice
quickness. Solid wrap tackler. Solid production.
Team captain. Solid character. Good work ethic.
Has been very durable throughout his career.
Negatives: Too short. Not naturally big and
has struggled holding weight. Ballooned up to
293 pounds at the Scouting Combine and
labored trying to carry the weight. Marginal athlete. Plays small and will get hung up and linger
on blocks. Lacks anchor strength. Lacks lateral
range and does not show much burst getting to
the ball. Not a refined pass rusher. Cannot handle the double-team. Must get stronger.
Summary: Productive, try-hard three-year
starter has continually beaten the odds, but suffered his second seizure in the past year after
arriving in Houston for the East-West Shrine
game. Could be red-flagged for his medical history. Showed up at the Combine at 293 pounds, well
over his natural playing weight, and consequently
turned in a forgettable performance. Will be hard
pressed to make an impact given his glaring size,
strength and athletic limitations, but a precarious
medical history could take precedence.

DT TERAZ

McCRAY

(6-058, 288, 5.22) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Played in 11


games in 04, missing the Louisville contest

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with a stinger, and registered 21 tackles, six
tackles for loss and 212 sacks. Suffered a torn left
anterior cruciate ligament in the spring of 05
but returned to play the final five games of the
season, compiling 10-2-1 with one fumble
recovery. Started 8-of-12 games in which he
played in 06, despite contending with a left
knee that had been scoped prior to the season
and a minor lower back injury suffered vs.
Boston College. Tallied 25-5-2 with one forced
fumble and one fumble recovery. Played in all
12 games in 07, starting nine, and posted 331012-6 with one batted ball and a forced fumble.
Positives: Solid production. Shows a nice armover, swim move and can create some pressure.
Fairly athletic. Strong work ethic and character.
Forced the game-winning fumble against Florida
States Xavier Lee and it was returned for a TD.
Negatives: Too short and thinly built. Lacks
great anchor strength to hold his ground vs. the
run. Has a history of knee problems. Gets neutralized too easily. Can do a better job of disengaging from blocks. Spins in place. Does not
show great chase speed. Production came
against inferior competition.
Summary: Almost looks like a linebacker and
lacks the bulk strength desired to defend the run.
Lack of size will limit his chances. Solid intangibles gives him a chance in a penetrating
scheme.

DLE-DT PHILLIP

MERLING (Junior)

(6-414, 276, 4.85e) CLEMSON

SPORTPICS

Notes: Coached by his uncle, Chris Rumpf.


Also lettered in basketball as a prep. Appeared in
all 12 games in reserve as a true freshman in
2005, logging 22 tackles, four tackles for loss,
two sacks and adding two batted balls and a
forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 06 and
totaled 46-10-3 with four batted balls and a
forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 07, securing 78-17-5 with one
batted ball, two forced
fumbles and a fumble
recovery. Did not do a
full workout at the
Combine because of a
groin injury.
Positives:
Outstanding size and
strength with long
arms and good body
length. His motor is
always running. Plays
physical and can press
off blocks and play Phillip Merling l CLEMSON
the
run.
Good
instincts and play recognition. Gives outstanding
effort and gets off the ground to make secondeffort plays. Chases down ballcarriers from the
backside. Relentless pursuit. Takes a hard first
step and shows good short-area quickness. Good
overall athlete. Highly competitive. Plays with
leverage, can stack the point and has the power

to split double-teams. Very tough and physical.


Negatives: Marginal sack production. Not a
refined pass rusher and doesnt show the long
speed to get to the quarterback is often a step
late to arrive. Has a long torso and a sleigh back.
Lacks upper-body strength only benchpressed 225 pounds 17 times at the Combine.
Could develop more pass-rush moves.
Summary: Ideally suited to be a base end in a
4-3 defense with enough size and girth to kick
inside as a nickel rusher. Could bring versatility
and motor to a defensive line.

DE-OLB BRANDON

MILLER

(6-218, 252, 4.8e) GEORGIA

Notes: Appeared in all 12 games as a true


freshman in 2004 on special teams, tallying nine
tackles with one fumble recovery. Started 10-of12 games at strong-side linebacker in 05 while
hampered by injuries, compiling 41 tackles and
four tackles for loss with one pass breakup and
one forced fumble. Played in all 13 games in 06
at strong-side linebacker, starting five, and totaled
23-2 with two pass breakups. After getting a look
at middle linebacker in spring 07, he moved back
to the strong side and started 6-of-12 games in
which he played in 07, missing the Vanderbilt
contest with a calf muscle injury. Totaled 35-3-1
with one interception and two fumble recoveries.
Moved to defensive end vs. Kentucky and finished the final three games there.
Positives: Good size and looks the part. Has
some versatility. Surprisingly strong vs. the run
with long arms and plays with leverage.
Negatives: Has zero instincts and struggles to
find the ball. Bites on play-action. Very average
career production.
Summary: Finished the season at defensive
end and showed some promise there with his
hand on the ground. Is best when his responsibilities are kept simple and he can be set loose.

DT DRE

MOORE

(6-4, 305, 4.91) MARYLAND

Notes: Set the school weightlifting record for


defensive linemen in the clean (365 pounds). Did
not play football until his junior year of high
school. Redshirted in 2003. Played eight games
in 04 and recorded 12 tackles, 112 tackles for loss
and one sack. Started 3-of-10 games in which he
played in 05, missing the Temple contest with a
sprained right ankle, and compiling 18-0-0.
Played in all 13 games in 06, starting 10, and
notched 47-712-312 with one forced fumble. Started all 13 games in the 07 and posted 63-812-6
with two forced fumbles and an interception.
Positives: Naturally athletic and light on his
feet. Plays with good knee bend. Has outstanding weight-room numbers and strength levels.
Flashes the ability to get off blocks and make
some plays behind the line. Has pass-rush ability. Solid tackler. Was clocked as low as 4.84 in
the 40 at the Combine.
Negatives: Not instinctive and looks lost at
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times. Too late to locate the ball. Plays too tall,
loses leverage and gets stuck on blocks. Struggles to make plays on the perimeter. Does not
play with fire and gets caught loafing too much.
Motor too often runs cold. Has not figured out
how to use his hands to stack and shed or to beat
the double-team. Has not figured out how to
translate his strength to the field. Looks like he
has not seen a weight room and his man-boobs
caught more than a few double-takes from
scouts at Senior Bowl weigh-ins.
Summary: Tested exceptionally well at the
Combine, as expected, and flashed the twitch
that he will show occasionally on tape. However, he disappears far too often and has not
learned to play with consistent intensity. When
he is focused, he can be a force, but too often
just goes through the motions. Is still raw and
learning the game and could develop into a solid
three-technique. An underachiever to date with
boom-or-bust potential.

NT FRANK

MORTON

(6-2, 307, 5.44) TULANE

Notes: Also lettered in track and basketball as


a prep. Appeared in all 11 games as a true freshman in 2004, recording 19 tackles and one-half
tackle for loss. Started 1-of-11 games in 05 and
collected 31-5 with one batted ball. Started 11of-12 games in 06, tallying 30-812 and four
sacks. Started 1-of-10 games in which he played
in 07 at left defensive tackle in place of Antonio
Harris, but primarily served as a reserve right
tackle. Registered 16-412-112 with one batted ball
and a fumble recovery.
Positives: Has natural strength with long
arms. Shows some strength in his hands and can
control blockers.
Negatives: Marginal foot quickness. Average
athlete. Marginal chase speed. Limited pass
rusher. Not a great worker. Did little to distinguish himself at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star
game.
Summary: Two-down, run defender with
enough size and strength to bring to a camp.

DT-DE MAURICE

MURRAY

(6-338, 314, 5.1e) NEW MEXICO STATE

Notes: Attended Long Beach (Calif.) City


College as a true freshman in 2004 and logged
38 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 12 sacks.
Transferred to New Mexico State in 05 but did
not play after suffering a staph infection in his
right knee. Started 8-of-9 games at the DRE spot
in a 3-4 front in 06, posting 24-2-0. Was suspended by the team for the San Jose State game
after incurring a late-hit penalty vs. Nevada the
previous week. Started 5-of-13 games in which
he played in 07 in a rotation at right end and
registered 24-5-312.
Positives: Very good size with a well-distributed, muscular frame. Great lower-body
strength. Has some versatility.
Negatives: Too undisciplined. Not a worker.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Lacks the quickness to play off the edge and the


power desired inside. Very average finishing
speed. Leaky tackler. Could take time to grasp a
defense. Questionable stamina.
Summary: Lined up as a five-technique in a 34 front but projects inside in the pros, where his
strength is better-suited.

DT-OG CHRIS

NORWELL

(6-534, 306, 5.3e) ILLINOIS

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Lined up at tight end as a junior and at offensive
tackle as a senior in high school. Entered the program as an offensive tackle and redshirted in
2003 as a true freshman. Moved to the defensive
line in 04 due to team needs and saw immediate
action, starting all 11 games and registering 40
tackles, two tackles for loss and two batted balls.
Started all 11 games in 05 and collected 46-712 to
go with three sacks and two batted balls. In 06,
played in all 12 games, starting 11, and racked up
42-1212-5 plus two forced fumbles. Started all 13
games in 07 and logged 32-312-12 with two batted
balls and three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Has good size.
Negatives: Limited pass-rush ability. Plays
too upright and gets washed. Struggles to
anchor. Average arm length and hand use. Too
easily eliminated. Lacks weight-room strength
and functional play strength. Motor does not
always go. Average tackler. Not quick-twitched.
Summary: Converted tight end who began his
career on the offensive line but moved to defensive tackle out of necessity and has remained a
mainstay in the middle for the past four years.
His only chance will likely come as an offensive
guard projection.

NT OGEMDI

NWAGBUO

(6-234, 300, 5.1e) MICHIGAN STATE

Notes: Name is pronounced Oh-GIM-dee


new-WOW-bo. Played only one season of high
school football. Enrolled at Southwestern College (Calif.) from 2003-05, but redshirted there
in 04. Transferred to Michigan State in 06.
Started the first 6-of-12 games in which he
played in 06, before giving way to senior David
Stanton. Finished with 23 tackles and 112 tackles
for loss and added a forced fumble. Played in all
13 games at nose tackle in 07, starting 12, but
was relegated to a reserve role vs. Northwestern
with a hand injury, and wore a cast for several
games to protect the hand. Suffered the injury the
week prior in the first half vs. Wisconsin, but
returned to action in the second half. Finished
with 31-412 and a sack, adding a fumble recovery.
Positives: Has some girth and a frame to get
bigger. Shows nice lower-body strength and balance. Can push the pocket. Flashes some quickness. Did not begin playing football until his
senior year of high school and has a lot of
upside. Is smart and can learn.
Negatives: Marginal athlete. A plodder with
trudging, heavy feet that often go dead on con-

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tact. Gets outmaneuvered and sealed too easily.
Does not use his hands or lock out and consequently struggles to get off blocks. Struggles to
keep his feet in traffic. Does not push the pocket
or play on the other side of the line of scrimmage.
Summary: Big, developmental banger with
enough size to warrant interest as a nose tackle.
Is still learning the game.

NT FRANK

OKAM

(6-412, 347, 5.36) TEXAS

Notes: Named Parade All-American as a high


school senior. Also lettered in track and field,
placing fifth as a junior in the discus (174 feet 6
inches) at the Texas Class 5A state meet. Started
1-of-12 games as a true freshman in 2004, notching 22 tackles, six tackles for loss and two sacks.
Started all 13 games in 05 and recorded 48-5-1
and two fumble recoveries. In 06, started 12-of13 games in which he played, sitting out the Baylor contest with a sore left knee, and tallied 38-62. Underwent arthroscopic surgery on the left
knee and sat out 07 spring practice. Started all 13
games in 07 and totaled 52-11-5 with five batted
balls, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Graduated in spring 07 with a degree in
sports management and took the LSAT in June.
Positives: Has rare size with natural strength
and flashes some power. Very smart. Solid character. Dominated in one-on-one drills at the
East-West Shrine game and showed strength,
power and effort not seen on tape.
Negatives: Average athlete. Too cerebral and
almost plays too nice. Plays down to the competition. Does not show any twitch and looks too
complacent just getting blocked. Plays tall and
loses leverage. Struggles to hold the point vs. the
double-team and gets pushed back. Does not
play with intensity. Gives up his body and does
not use his hands. Lacks functional strength. Put
on more than 25 pounds between the East-West
Shrine game and the Combine and his weight
has tended to fluctuate.
Summary: Showed up with an exclamation
mark at the East-West Shrine game and played
like all the marbles were riding on the game,
looking like the polar opposite of what he
showed on tape the past four years. Could blossom as a nose tackle in a 3-4 front with tough
coaching and a supportive environment. Would
fit best for a team like the Dolphins, Jets or Patriots. Could be tried at offensive guard.

DLE ADAMM

OLIVER

(6-334, 268, 4.85e) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Started 3-of-12 games in 2004 as an


injury replacement and tallied 27 tackles, 512 tackles for loss and three sacks. Played in 12 games in
05, starting eight at left end (four) and right
end (four) and recorded 41-6-3. In 06, started
all 14 games and compiled 70-11-312. Started all
12 games in which he played in 07 and posted
41-8-412 with one batted ball, one forced fumble
and a fumble recovery. Missed the Humanitarian

Bowl vs. Fresno State with a torn left anterior cruciate ligament suffered vs. Georgia. Underwent
surgery on Dec. 6 and was limited in testing at the
Combine. Graduated in December.
Positives: Great effort and energy. Plays with
high intensity and runs to the ball. Smart and
plays with awareness. Good upper-body
strength. Solid wrap tackler. Very hardworking.
Has a passion for the game. Solid production.
Good character.
Negatives: Tightly wound. Plays too upright
and gets hung up on blocks. Shows little variety
of pass-rush moves. Can be neutralized too easily and sealed.
Summary: Limited, high-effort overachiever
coming off a serious injury and likely will not be
fully recovered in time for minicamps. Could
compete for a backup job as a base end.

DLE CHASE

ORTIZ

(6-2, 249, 4.93) TEXAS CHRISTIAN

Notes: Cousin, Woody Williams, is a pitcher


for the Houston Astros. Redshirted in 2003. Did
not play in 04 due to a heat-related illness.
Started all 12 games in 05, amassing 37 tackles,
14 tackles for loss and nine sacks. Started all 13
games in 06, totaling 27-11-212 with one interception and one forced fumble. Played in all 13
games in 07, starting 12, and logged 42-1612-9
with four batted balls, three forced fumbles and
a fumble recovery.
Positives: Plays with good technique and uses
his hands very well to maneuver around and get
off blocks. Great work ethic. Good weight-room
strength. Plays every down hard and his motor is
always running. Plays faster than he times. Good
overall career production. Good lateral quickness. Performed very well in agility drills at the
Combine.
Negatives: Does not look the part with short
arms and little muscular development. Lacks
great size to drop the anchor vs. the run and constrict running lanes. Does not have the girth or
bulk strength to be an every-down player.
Summary: Self-made overachiever who could
become a functional backup. Lacks the upfield
burst, athletic ability and strength desired in a
front-line pass rusher.

DLE NICK

OSBORN

(6-338, 258, 4.85e) SAN DIEGO STATE

Notes: Also lettered in soccer and track as a


prep. Redshirted in 2003. Missed the first two
games in 04 with a chipped bone in his right
elbow, but returned to appear in the final nine
games and recorded eight tackles and one-half
tackle for loss. Started all 12 games in 05 at
defensive tackle, tallying 47-312 and two sacks
with one fumble recovery. Started all 12 games
in 06 at defensive end, amassing 58-412-1 with
one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
Started all 12 games in 07 and posted 54-812-4
with two batted balls and one forced fumble.
Positives: Competes hard and can flatten down
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the line and close to the ball. Good effort and
energy. Solid tackler. Takes the game seriously.
Negatives: Average size with short arms and
small hands. Plays upright and struggles to stack
the corner. Lacks bulk and play strength and gets
bounced around too much. Not physical and
does not play with any power. Average instincts.
Is late to see and react to the ball.
Summary: Shows enough strength and competitiveness to give him a chance, but a lack of
instincts could limit his chances.

Needs to play with better knee bend and leverage. Can be covered up and neutralized. Cannot
beat the double-team and creates little push. Feet
get taken out from underneath him. Lacks the
speed and stamina to make plays to the outside.
Lacks finishing speed. Fatigues and wears down
late in games.
Summary: A big rotational defensive tackle
with some quickness to contribute in a fast-flowing, up-the-field attack.

DLE JACOB

(6-318, 301, 5.15) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

OWENS

(6-4 8, 262, 4.91) FAIRMONT STATE (W. VA.)


7

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Entered the program as a tight end and redshirted in 2003. Played in all 10 games in 04, primarily at tight end but also at defensive end,
compiling five tackles and one fumble recovery.
Started nine games strictly at defensive end in
05 and secured 38 tackles, 14 tackles for loss
and eight sacks. Was held out of one game with
a hamstring injury. In 06, started all 11 games
and logged 56-13-4, six batted balls and one
fumble recovery. Started all 10 games in which
he played in 07, missing the season opener vs.
The Apprentice School with a sprained knee,
and totaled 44-1012-5 with seven batted balls and
three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Tough and competitive. Plays with
intensity. Works hard and shows some versatility, having lined up at every position on the line
in a three-man front. Is strong and can hold the
point. Shows good agility for his size. Flashes
some nastiness.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Plays too upright and relies on his upper-body
strength. Needs to learn to drop his pads and
play with better leverage. Very raw hand use.
Summary: Raw developmental prospect who
might have a chance to compete as a five-technique in a 3-4 front. Toughness and competitiveness could open a door.

DT CARLTON

POWELL

(6-2, 292, 5.13) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Also lettered in track and field as a


prep, competing in the shotput and lined up at
linebacker. Redshirted in 2003. Started 1-of-13
games in 04, tallying 17 tackles and six tackles
for loss with one forced fumble. Started 5-of-13
games in which he played in 05 and compiled
13-112 and one-half sack. Started all 13 games in
06, recording 38-612-212 with two fumble recoveries. Played in all 14 games in 07, starting 13
and giving way to senior Kory Robertson to
open vs. Ohio. Tallied 39-7-312 on the season.
Positives: Has some athletic ability and
enough quickness to be effective working in
gaps. Shows some strength to hold ground,
locate the ball and play off blocks. Nice
instincts. Flashes some potential vs. Virginia.
Negatives: Plays with too much finesse and
struggles when he is matched up against size.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

DT DeMARIO

PRESSLEY

Notes: Parade All-American, USA Today AllUSA first-team selection and North Carolinas
Gatorade Player of the Year as a high school
senior. Also lettered in basketball and track and
field, competing in the shotput. Started 1-of-10
games in which he played as a true freshman in
2004 behind Buffalo Bills 06 first-round pick
John McCargo and logged 15-1-0. Beat out
Kansas City Chiefs 07 third-round pick DeMarcus Tank Tyler to start all 12 games in 05 and
registered 43-6-1. In 06, started the first 11
games at the DRT spot before sustaining a season-ending wrist injury against North Carolina
and finishing with 44-7-2. Missed some time in
the spring of 07 with a broken big toe on his left
foot. Started 8-of-10 games in which he played
in 07, missing two early-season games following surgery to repair a torn right meniscus suffered in practice. Also played through an earlyseason elbow sprain. Finished with 38-6-112 and
two interceptions.
Positives: Is athletic enough to be disruptive
and penetrate gaps. Flashes good chase speed to
flatten, close to the ball and make plays outside
the tackle box. Solid tackler. Hits with some pop
and flashes power.
Negatives: Has a soft body and is too stiff.
Does not play strong. Too often plays down to
the level of competition. Average lateral quickness. Not a nifty pass rusher and struggles to
come free and work off the edges. Gets ridden
out of plays and struggles to hold his ground.
His durability has been questionable. Not a great
worker. Lacks discipline.
Summary: Shows so many flashes of being a
good player yet so often struggles and fails to
live up to his potential that few evaluators will
have an easy time pounding the table to state his
case. Classic underachiever who could be very
good if he wants to be, but too often plays lazy
and down to the competition and looks content
standing around. His durability and lack of focus
could keep him from ever reaching his potential.

DE ANTONIO

REYNOLDS

(6-334, 266, 4.85e) TENNESSEE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Signed with Miami (Fla.) out of high school in
2002 but was ruled academically ineligible and
sat out the year. Enrolled at Hargrave Military
Academy (Va.) in 03 before moving to Ten-

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nessee in 04. Played in all 13 games and logged
nine tackles, three tackles for loss and one sack.
Saw action in all 11 games in 05, notching 120-0 and two pass breakups. Appeared in 11
games at right defensive end in 06, missing two
late-season contests with a sprained neck, and
finished with 37-412-1. Started all 14 games in
07 at the DRE spot, tallying 31-512-3 and a 70yard interception return for touchdown.
Positives: Has good size and very long arms.
Flashes some quickness and athleticism.
Negatives: Inconsistent motor and effort.
Marginal chase and pursuit speed. Plays down to
the competition. Does not play with strength.
Lacks motivation, drive and passion for the
game. Not instinctive. Limited pass-rush skills.
Summary: Career underachiever with enough
size, athletic ability and strength to warrant
interest in a camp.

DRE-OLB DARRELL

ROBERTSON

11-of-12 games at defensive end in 06 and compiled 23-5-1 and two batted balls. Started 6-of10 games in which he played at nose tackle in
07, notching 26-5-2 with one batted ball and a
forced fumble. Missed two games and parts of
five others with an ankle injury and a shoulder
stinger.
Positives: Very thickly built with a massive
frame. Can stack the point and hold ground.
Negatives: Not a worker. Marginal competitor. Was kicked out of Rutgers for rules violations. Plays lazy. Moves sluggishly and shows
no twitch or urgency in his play. Marginal hand
use. Did not stand out at the East-West Shrine
game.
Summary: Has outstanding size to clog the
middle, but has underachieved throughout his
career, struggled to stay out of trouble, having
bounced to three different programs and will be
difficult to motivate.

(6-378, 255, 4.75e) GEORGIA TECH

NT AHTYBA

Notes: Appeared in all 12 games in 2004 as a


true freshman, recording five tackles and one
tackle for loss via the sack. Started 4-of-12
games in 05 as an injury replacement at left end
and logged 15-1-1 and one interception. In 06,
played in all 14 games, starting 12, and compiled 54-7-3. Started all 13 games at defensive
end in 07 and posted 36-16-612 with one forced
fumble and two recovered fumbles. Was excluded from workouts at the Combine because of a
right shoulder injury.
Positives: Athletic natural bender. Very nimble-footed and agile. Uses jab steps and shoulder
fakes very effectively to sell the outside move
and is able to counter inside. Can drop into coverage and shadow a tight end. Shows nice closing speed on the perimeter.
Negatives: Too one-dimensional. Has a lean
frame and needs to get bigger. Has marginal
strength. Needs to win at the snap or will struggle to come free. Rises too tall out of his stance
and gets hung up. Takes wide angles and runs
himself out of plays. Not an every-down player
in college. Entered the program at 190 pounds
and is not naturally big-boned.
Summary: Does not play with great urgency
or excite scouts with his pass-rush ability, but
does possess the athletic ability to develop into a
3-4 outside linebacker.

(6-234, 315, 5.27) IOWA STATE

NT NATE

ROBINSON

(6-334, 305, 5.25e) AKRON

Notes: Signed a national letter of intent with


Miami (Fla.) but enrolled at Rutgers in the fall.
Limited to the final six games of 2003 with the
Scarlet Knights by a knee injury sustained as a
high school senior and tallied three tackles, one
tackle for loss and one sack. In 04, played in
eight games, logging 5-3-12. Was released from
Rutgers team in April of 05 for an undisclosed
violation of team policy. Sat out in 05 after
transferring to Akron. Saw action in reserve for

RUBIN

Notes: Enrolled at Trinity Valley Community


College (Texas) out of high school. Played on
the defensive line as a freshman in 2004 and on
the offensive line in 05. Earned all-conference
honors following the position switch. Transferred to ISU in the summer of 06 and started
the final 9-of-12 games in which he played in the
fall, registering 34 tackles, four tackles for loss
and one sack. Started all 12 games in 07 and
registered 42-4-112 with one forced fumble and
one fumble recovery. Undersized, high-effort,
heavy-legged plugger. Plays hard and gives good
effort in pursuit. Lacks the burst to make tackles
outside the box or create penetration and too
often stands straight up and gets stalemated at
the line.
Positives: Has natural bulk mass, good
strength and can hold his ground against the
double-team. Shows some quickness off the ball
and straight-line power. Bench-pressed 225
pounds 34 times at the Combine.
Negatives: Very stiff. Needs to learn how to
use his hands. Does not play with power and
struggles to split the double-team. Struggles to
disengage and shed blockers. Too stiff in the
hips. Will rise out of his stance and play too
upright. Does not play on the other side of the
line of scrimmage. Questionable instincts and
intelligence. Still has junior-college work habits.
Has a soft disposition and is not a glass-eater.
Can be stymied by quick-setting blockers.
Summary: A massive clogger who will bring
the most value in a 3-4 front as a nose tackle.
May take a few years to develop but has natural
girth and strength that is difficult to find.

DE TREVOR

SCOTT

(6-5, 252, 4.62) BUFFALO

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school. Entered the program as a tight end
and redshirted in 2003. Saw action in 10 games
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as a backup tight end and on special teams in
04, finishing with one catch for 42 yards and six
tackles. Missed the Akron game with a concussion. Played in seven games as a reserve tight
end in 05, catching 8-55 (6.9-yard average).
Missed three games with a back injury. Moved
to defensive end in the spring of 06. Started all
12 games at defensive end in 06 at barely 230
pounds, notching 45 tackles, 1312 tackles for loss
and nine sacks with one batted ball and one
blocked kick. Started all 12 games in 07, amassing 46-15-10 with two batted balls, three forced
fumbles and one fumble recovery. Two-time
elected team captain.
Positives: Good motor. Plays hard and gives
good effort. Good weight-room worker. Solid
production. Plays on special teams and has good
length to block kicks.
Negatives: Plays upright with no technique
and gets bounced around too much. Not physical.
Too high-cut and narrow-hipped, lacks bulk
strength and struggles to sink his hips and play
the run. Lacks functional strength and gets put on
his back. Bites on play-action and is not instinctive. Average bend and flexibility off the edge.
Summary: Converted tight end who is still
trying to learn the position and has enough size
and speed to warrant developing. Looked like he
still might be best as a tight end at the Texas vs.
the Nation all-star game. His outstanding motor
could give him a chance.

NT JASON

SHIRLEY

(6-514, 338, 5.2e) FRESNO STATE

Notes: High school discus and shotput competitor. Redshirted in 2003. Saw action as a
reserve in 11 games in 04, tallying 16 tackles,
212 tackles for loss and one sack. Earned his first
career start in the MPC Computers Bowl vs. Virginia. Started the first five games of 05 before
being relegated to a reserve role by injury. Finished with 14-4-1. Started all 12 games in 06,
racking up 22-412-2. Also excelled on special
teams, leading the Bulldogs with three blocked
kicks, including two blocks vs. Hawaii in Week
Six. Was limited to three games in 07 by three
separate off-field incidents and suspensions,
posting 7-4-2 and a forced fumble. Suspended
the first two games of the season for conduct
detrimental to the team apparently stemming
from him missing a conditioning test. Then on
Oct. 8 crashed his car into an apartment building, left the scene of the accident, but was eventually arrested and found to have a blood-alcohol
level of 0.12, above the state 0.08 legal limit. Initially received a season-long suspension from
the university, but was allowed to return to the
team after just four weeks after athletic director
Thomas Boeh reversed his initial suspension
apparently in light of medical evidence. Was
then dismissed from the team nearly a month
later after being cited on suspicion of driving
with a suspended license and expired registration. Most recently pleaded not guilty to two
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

counts of driving under the influence and one


count hit and run, all misdemeanor charges
stemming from the October accident. A jury trial
is tentatively scheduled for this April.
Positives: Has a massive frame with huge
mitts and long arms and moves very well for his
size. Size and athletic ability stood out at the
Texas vs. the Nation all-star game. Can penetrate
and disrupt the backfield and beat the doubleteam. Can push the pocket. Shows the speed to
close to the ball (when he wants to).
Negatives: Has made some bad decisions off
the field and character is a concern. Plays lazy.
Needs to be motivated and learn what it means
to work. Plays too tall and gets hung up on
blocks. Does not play hard.
Summary: Maddening to watch given how
immensely talented he is, Shirley is a classic
underachiever who could be great if he ever puts
it all together. Moves very naturally for a 340pounder. Might have a chance as a two-down,
run defender playing in a rotation if he can
become more disciplined. Needs hard coaching.

DT PAT

SIMS (Junior)

(6-218, 310, 5.14) AUBURN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Played the season opener vs. Louisiana-Monroe
as a true freshman in 2004 before redshirting the
remainder of the season. Quit the team in 05
and did not play. Returned to the team in 06 and
played in all 13 games, recording 16 tackles, five
tackles for loss and three sacks, along with one
batted ball and a forced fumble. Started all 13
games in 07 and played through a stretch of the
season with a bulky, club-like cast to protect a
broken left hand. Finished with 37-1112-412 with
three batted balls, two forced fumbles and a 21yard fumble return for touchdown. Strained his
right groin at the Combine and did not finish
working out.
Positives: Shows some natural athletic ability.
Deceptive first-step quickness. Effective
slanting. Can hold the point when he keeps his
pads down. Flashes quickness as a pass rusher
and has nice spin and swim moves.
Negatives: Very fleshy-bodied. Lacks upperbody strength. Struggles to sink his hips and
anchor for as powerful of a lower body as he has.
Lacks finishing speed. Much of his production
has come when he is unblocked and has a clear
lane to the ball or when he falls into plays
flushed to him. Can do a better job of using his
hands, locking out and playing off blocks. Too
easily reached. Struggles to hold ground vs. the
double-team and will get turned and twisted. Not
quick changing direction and does not play with
great balance. Only a one-year starter who
played in a rotation. Immature and thinks he is
better than he is. Passion for the game is suspect.
Lacks discipline. Gets fatigued too easily and
fades late in the game. Gets pancaked and
spends more time on the ground than he should.
Struggles vs. better competition and cannot beat

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power. Not a worker. Weight has fluctuated and
lacks discipline in his diet. Alarmed teams during interviews at the Combine.
Summary: A poor mans Sam Adams, Sims
has the pear shape and growing frame to get up
to 340 pounds in a couple of years and is a naturally athletic big man. He could contribute
readily if he is willing to work at it, but questions
about his passion, work ethic and commitment
to the game could severely limit his draft status.

DRE-OLB BRYAN

SMITH

(6-238, 231, 4.76) McNEESE STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track


and field as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Did not
play in 04 due to a dislocated left shoulder.
Started 7-of-9 games in which he played in 05
and registered 43 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and
seven sacks to go along with two forced fumbles
and a fumble recovery. Started all 12 games in
06, amassing 84-23-1312 with three forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Started all 10
games in which he played in 07, posting 602212-1012 with one batted ball, four forced fumbles and two recovered fumbles, but he missed
the final two games of the season with a right
high ankle sprain.
Positives: Shows good twitch off the edge and
has legit pass-rush ability. Shows a very quick
first step to win at the snap and beat blockers off
the ball. Good instincts. Plays smart. Shows the
burst to close. Flattens down the line and shows
range to the sideline. Good second effort. Solid
tackler. Outstanding worker. Mentally tough.
Negatives: Has a linear build and is very thinframed. Lacks size and upper-body strength and
too easily can be washed. Has not faced top
competition and will struggle to anchor vs. NFL
blockers. Has struggled to hold weight. Only
bench-pressed 225 pounds 17 times at the Combine and needs to spend more time in the weight
room.
Summary: Lacks ideal bulk to be an everydown end and could project to linebacker in the
pros. However, he stands a chance to develop as
an up-the-field, pass-rushing right end for a team
like the Colts, Eagles or Buccaneers if he can
bulk up and get stronger. Noticeably stands out
vs. lesser competition.

DLE-PRS DORIAN

SMITH

(6-112, 264, 5.06) OREGON STATE

Notes: Attended College of the Desert (Calif.)


from 2004-05. Transferred to Oregon State in
06 and started 1-of-14 games in which he
played behind Joe Lemma, posting 30 tackles,
1112 tackles for loss and nine sacks with one batted ball and a forced fumble. Started all 11
games in which he played in 07, missing two
late-season contests with a knee sprain suffered
vs. USC. Finished with 42-1012-6 and a forced
fumble.
Positives: Has a thick, muscular build. Shows
good strength, feet and agility. Intriguing pass

rusher can plant and accelerate through the


gap on stunts or properly set up and execute an
inside spin in tight quarters. Does not waste
movement. Uses his hands well and is constantly moving an elusive target whos difficult for
blockers to engage.
Negatives: Is short. Does not show the body
control or change of direction to consistently finish. Not explosive out of his stance. Does not
show a quick first step. Production dipped after
entering the starting lineup. Can improve his
anchor strength vs. the run.
Summary: Was most effective as a situational
pass rusher as a junior and shows some natural
pass-rush ability. However, a poor Combine performance will likely eliminate chances to be
drafted.

NT HENRY

SMITH

(6-178, 316, 5.15e) TEXAS A&M

Notes: Named Alabamas Class 3A Lineman


of the Year as a prep. Attended East Central
Community College (Miss.) from 2003-04.
Transferred to Texas A&M and redshirted in 05.
Appeared in all 13 games in 06 and tallied 224-2. Had arthroscopic surgery on his ankle following spring practice. Played in all 13 games in
07, starting 12, and totaled 34-5-1 and two batted balls.
Positives: Good mass with strong lower-body
development. Can clog the middle and occupy
defenders and push the pocket. Flashes some
strength in his hands to control blockers. Has
been very durable.
Negatives: Has a big, soft belly. Average
instincts can be late to find the ball. Limited
playing range rarely gets outside the tackle
box. Average effort and stamina. Limited pass
rusher. Marginal practice player.
Summary: Could bring value as a big-bodied
run stuffer in a 3-4 defense and likely could be
found after the draft. Would be best in a rotation.

DRE-OLB ANDY

STUDEBAKER

(6-3, 246, 4.61) WHEATON (ILL.)

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Saw limited action as a true freshman in
2004. Started 9-of-10 games in 05, registering
55 tackles, 1912 tackles for loss and 712 sacks
with two forced fumbles and a blocked. Started
all 12 games in 06, totaling 44-2412-1712 with
eight pass breakups and 19 quarterback hurries.
Started all five games in which he played in 07,
logging 12-612-5 and three batted balls, but
missed the final five games of the season with a
partially torn ligament in his right foot which
required season-ending surgery.
Positives: Good weight-room strength. Very
smart and hardworking. Has a frame to grow
into and could easily be 260 pounds. Good character. Solid wrap tackler. Outstanding junior
production.
Negatives: Production is inflated from facing
marginal Division III competition. Is not natuw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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rally big or strong and does not play physical.
See-and-go reactor who loses sight of the ball
too often and can get hung up on blocks. Durability needs to be a consideration.
Summary: Did not play in all-star competition
due to injury and his pro-day workouts will likely determine whether he has the movement skills
and fluidity to transition to outside linebacker.
Raw, developmental small-school pass rusher
with some upside.

DRE-OLB HILEE

TAYLOR

(6-238, 244, 4.61) NORTH CAROLINA

Notes: Appeared in 6-of-12 games at linebacker as a true freshman, racking up 13 tackles,


412 tackles for loss all via sacks and three forced
fumbles, including a 21-yard TD return vs.
Georgia Tech. Played in 10 games in 05, missing the Duke contest with a sprained ankle, and
recorded 12-112-1. In 06, started all 12 games at
defensive end and totaled 29-5-3. Started all 12
games at weak-side defensive end in 07, amassing 49-16-1012 with two batted balls, three
forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
Positives: Times up the snap well at times and
can beat blockers off the snap. Showed
improved effort as a senior and good sack production.
Negatives: Too thin and lacks bulk. Plays too
upright and loses leverage to defend the run.
Gets knocked backward on contact and is not a
strong, drive-through tackler. Average hand use
in fighting off blocks. Gets caught up in traffic
and shows average burst to close. Not a fluid
mover who can easily sink in coverage. Effort is
inconsistent.
Summary: Too tight and mechanical to project
to rush linebacker yet lacks ideal bulk and bulk
strength to line up as an every-down end. Not a
great fit for any position and needs to bulk up to
have a chance as a pass rusher.

DE-OLB JEREMY

THOMPSON

(6-438, 264, 4.76) WAKE FOREST

Notes: Started 3-of-11 games in a rotation at


right end as a true freshman in 2004, posting 15
tackles, three tackles for loss and one sack and
adding one interception and two blocked kicks.
Started the first eight games in 05 before sustaining a torn left anterior cruciate ligament
against North Carolina State. Underwent a hamstring-ACL reconstruction surgery, which consists of using a hamstring tendon in lieu of a
patella tendon to repair the knee. In 06, started
8-of-14 games, as he eased back from the knee
injury. Was later hampered by a bruised shoulder in the final four contests. Finished with 30412-1 with three pass breakups and one interception that he returned 86 yards for a TD against
Connecticut, the second-longest interception
return in school history. Started all 13 games in
07 and finished with 44-11-612 and two forced
fumbles.
Positives: Looks the part with long arms and
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

an excellent, well-proportioned frame to grow


into. Good first-step quickness. Plays on the
other side of the line of scrimmage. Can generate a pass rush, change direction and create a
move. Has fluid hips and the feet of a linebacker
when he zone-drops. Has the strength to anchor
vs. the run. Good balance and bend. Good backside pursuit. Solid tackler. Smart and hardworking. Good character. Has tons of upside. Performed exceptionally well in the agility drills at
the Combine and showed the quickness desired
in an outside linebacker.
Negatives: Plays with too much finesse. Too
inconsistent. Does not have great long speed to
close and is often a step late to arrive. Not a
glass-eater. Struggled to produce vs. better competition. Not explosive or powerful. Shows little
creativity to make himself skinny as a pass rusher. Limited hand use. Too tentative. Durability is
an issue. Not a finisher.
Summary: An enigma whose motor runs hot
and cold and who can be painful to watch
because he does not play up to his potential.
Scouts will not be able to write a report on him
without contradicting themselves because of his
inconsistent play he shows strength vs. the
run yet can be easily scooped. Has the physical
traits to become a great pro and could provide
intriguing versatility with potential as a 3-4 outside linebacker. However, he plays with too
much finesse, too often only shows one speed
and could fool some evaluators who concentrate
on what he can do in shorts. Shows some similarities to Cowboys 2007 first-round pick (26th
overall) Anthony Spencer.

NT JOSH

THOMPSON

(5-1158, 296, 5.33) AUBURN

Notes: Georgia state weightlifting champ during his sophomore, junior and senior years as a
prep. Redshirted in 2003. Played all 13 games in
04 with a torn right meniscus and registered 23
tackles and two tackles for loss with one fumble
recovery. Played in 10 games in 05, recording
four tackles. Missed two games with an ankle
injury. Started all 13 games in 06, tallying 44412 and one sack. Started all 13 games in 07 and
totaled 67-412-0 to lead the team in tackles.
Positives: Very broad-shouldered and widebodied. Is instinctive and runs to the ball.
Plays with natural leverage. Tough. Stout
enough to anchor and hold his ground. Great
character. Very diligent. Smart and understands the game.
Negatives: Barrel-chested with short arms.
Not quick or sudden and can be juked in space.
Average closing speed. Limited pass-rush ability. Needs to learn how to use his hands better to
disengage and play off blocks.
Summary: Stout, box-like, thickly built plugger who leaves everything on the field and could
earn a roster spot because of his toughness, natural leverage and motor. A poor mans version of
Ravens DT Kelly Gregg.

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BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

LINEBACKERS
PFWS TOP

10

WLB XAVIER

ADIBI

(6-134, 232, 4.72) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Brother, Nathaniel, played defensive


end for the Hokies and was a fifth-round pick of
the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2004 NFL draft.
Xavier redshirted in 03. Tore a tendon in his
right biceps in the season opener in 04. Underwent surgery and sat out the first six games but
returned to play in the final seven contests and
registered 25 tackles, 412 tackles for loss and two
sacks with one interception and one forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 05 at inside linebacker, compiling 69-7-3 with four pass
breakups and two interceptions, one of which
was returned 25 yards for a touchdown against
Georgia Tech. Started all 13 games in 06, totaling 82-612-3 with six pass breakups, three interceptions, three forced fumbles and one fumble
recovery. Started all 14 games in 07 at inside
linebacker, totaling 115-12-3 with two interceptions, five pass breakups and a forced fumble.
Did not do the bench press at the Combine
because of a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Plays fast with good knee bend.
Moves fluidly and has good lateral range to the
sideline. Solid tackler in space. Is rarely outrun
or beaten to the corner. Uses his long arms very
well in shedding blockers. Good shuffle and

slide. Shows the quickness to elude blockers. Is


patient vs. the cut-back and plays with discipline
keeps his eyes upfield, plays off blocks and
accelerates through the hole. Understands leverage and funnels the ball toward his help. Looks
natural in pass coverage and easily can run with
tight ends and running backs. Good awareness in
coverage. Solid Senior Bowl performance.
Negatives: Has a slender frame with skinny
legs. Very undersized and will get blown up by
the double-team. Does not consistently break
down in space. Can play tall and out of control.
Not a strong face-up tackler. Will overrun the
ballcarrier and misses too many easy tackles.
Takes time to digest what he sees and could use
some reps to understand a complex game plan.
Summary: Very lanky, long-limbed, underpowered weak-side backer who is most effective when he is covered up and free to run to the
ball. Compensates for a lack of bulk with speed.
Put on 12 pounds between the Senior Bowl and
the Combine and lost half a step, but he plays
faster than his timed speed. Has starter potential.

WLB STEVE

ALLEN

(6-012, 236, 4.88) WEST TEXAS A&M

Notes: Engaged with one son. Also lettered in


basketball, baseball and track as a prep. Originalw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

LINEBACKERS

1. KEITH RIVERS
2. Curtis Lofton
3. Dan Connor
4. Erin Henderson
5. Cliff Avril
6. Xavier Adibi
7. Geno Hayes
8. Quentin Groves
9. Tavares Gooden
10. Jordon Dizon

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ly signed with Nebraska but did not qualify academically and enrolled at Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College, where he redshirted in 2003.
Moved on to West Hills Community College
(Calif.) in 04 and started 9-of-10 games at free
safety. Attended Fresno City College (Calif.) in
05 and started all 11 games at outside linebacker.
Transferred to West Texas A&M in 06 and started 7-of-12 games at an ILB spot, totaling 76 tackles, 712 tackles for loss and three sacks with one
forced fumble. Played in all 13 games in 07,
making 12 starts. He registered 78-1312-1 with
one interception, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. Did not complete agility drills at
the Combine because of dizziness.
Positives: Natural athlete. Plays physical and
can run and hit. Shows great speed to the
perimeter and a good closing burst to the ball.
Good overall movement skills. Has long arms
and plays off blocks. Solid, drive-through tackler. Plays faster than he times.
Negatives: Lacks great size and take-on
strength. Can be overaggressive running to the
ball. Does not show much awareness in coverage
and lets receivers work around him in zones.
Immature and has a street-thug mentality. Does
not like to train or condition his body. Not committed in the offseason. Only bench-pressed 225
pounds 17 times at the Combine. Lacks discipline. Character is a concern.
Summary: A good football player who could
be difficult to sell to a decision-maker because
of character concerns, Allen is much more
instinctive than Browns 2003 second-rounder
(52nd overall) Chaun Thompson, who was
grossly overdrafted. Must prove he is committed
to the game to warrant investing in his future.

LB-DRE CLIFF

AVRIL

(6-278, 253, 4.62) PURDUE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school. Started 4-of-12 games at strong-side
linebacker as a true freshman in 2004 and tallied
36 tackles, three tackles for loss and one-half
sack and added one forced fumble. Started 4-of10 games at strong-side linebacker in 05, missing the Wisconsin contest with a lower back fracture. Finished with 33-212-0. Missed much of the
06 spring practice in order to rest the back
injury. In 06, started all 14 games four at
strong-side linebacker and 10 at weak-side
defensive end opposite Anthony Spencer registering 84-15-6 with six pass breakups, one
interception and two forced fumbles. Started all
13 games in 07 at strong-side defensive end,
totaling 41-15-612 to go with four forced fumbles,
three recovered fumbles and an interception.
Positives: Versatile has experience playing
with a hand down as well standing up at linebacker. Shows some natural pass-rush ability. Disciplined maintains backside responsibilities.
Good size with very long arms (3458 inches) and
good body length. Impressive lateral range and
long speed. Good competitor. Plays with a lot of
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

energy and plays hard. Had a good Senior Bowl


week, showed great agility in linebacker drills at
the Combine and looked as athletic as any rush
linebacker when dropping and moving around.
Negatives: Does not show the burst to win off
the snap or turn the corner. Plays too shortarmed and tries to shoulder past blockers. Struggles to disengage. Disappears too much. Lacks
mass to anchor and hold his ground. Does not
have quick feet and is an easy target for blockers
to engage. Can be engulfed and struggles with
size. Does not play with awareness or sense
plays developing.
Summary: Played out of position in college at
strong-side defensive end and was continually
overmatched and outmuscled. Developed a reputation as a 1-for-4 hitter, disappearing every
three snaps, and was most effective when he
lined up at strong-side linebacker as a junior.
Outstanding showing standing up at the Combine, and long lineage of successful Purdue rush
linebackers should enhance his value for an
aggressive, blitzing 3-4 defense used by a team
like the Ravens, Niners or Steelers. Could fit as
an inside backer in a traditional 3-4 defense like
the Patriots, but his best fit might be as an openside end in an aggressive 4-3 front.

LB BEAU

BELL

(6-114, 244, 4.65e) UNLV

Notes: Full name is James Beaumont Bell.


Lined up at DE, LB, DB, RB, P and PK positions
in high school. Played all 11 games as a true
freshman in 2004 and tallied 26 tackles and one
tackle for loss. Started the final 7-of-11 games in
05 at outside linebacker after recovering from a
groin injury and logged 92-712 and 312 sacks.
Limited to starting the first seven games in 06
by a sprained left ankle and totaled 76-9-4. Started all 12 games at weak-side linebacker in 07,
finishing with 126-912-3 plus five forced fumbles,
seven pass breakups and four interceptions. Suffered a bruised left knee at the Senior Bowl and
did not work out at the Combine as a result.
Positives: Very good size and bulk. Naturally
big-boned. Flashes outstanding instincts
diagnoses plays quickly. Shows great anticipation and breaks on the ball quickly. Sees the
whole field. Gets downhill and will step up and
stack. Has take-on ability. Is quick to jump
underneath routes and blow up receivers. Hits
with power and will strike.
Negatives: Has a bad body is high-cut and
top-heavy and looks like he has not seen a
weight room. Plays hesitantly, takes false steps
and does not trust his instincts. Too often leaves
his feet and whiffs in the open field. Does not
show great chase speed and will lose the corner.
Rises in his pedal on his pass drops. Plays flatfooted, struggles to change direction and shift
his weight. Reacts late to thrown balls. Does not
show great functional take-on strength and can
get buried on the blitz. Durability is a concern.
Lacks the mental toughness to play with pain.

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Not a vocal, take-charge leader. Not consistent.
Summary: A very poor mans Adalius
Thomas, Bell has the physical tools to be very
good, but he needs to become more consistent
and trust what he sees. Could take a few years
before he figures it out. Will require a team to be
patient. He might fit best inside in a 3-4 front but
he has some versatility.

SLB-DE KROY

BIERMANN

(6-2 78, 246, 4.87) MONTANA

Notes: Was a first-team all-state football player at both linebacker and running back in Montana. Also was a star wrestler, placing second in
the state as a junior and as a senior. Was moved
from linebacker to defensive end in the fall of
2004. Played in 14-of-15 games as a true freshman in 04 and finished with 22 tackles, 612 tackles for loss and three sacks. Also had one fumble
recovery that he returned for a touchdown.
Missed the first-round Division I-AA playoff
game against Northwestern State due to an
injury. Played in all 12 games in 05, totaling 487-3 with two fumble recoveries and one forced
fumble. Started 10-of-14 games in 06 and piled
up 78-14-11 with two fumble recoveries, three
forced fumbles and five passes batted down.
Started all 12 games in 07 at defensive end, tallying 70-1812-16 with two fumble recoveries,
five forced fumbles and two blocked field goals
in helping Grizzlies post an unbeaten 11-0
record in the regular season. Won the Buck
Buchanan Award as the best defensive player at
the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA) level.
Positives: Very good weight-room strength
bench-pressed 225 pounds 29 times at the Combine. Shows some pass-rush instincts and
upfield quickness. Shows nice balance and plays
on his feet. Plays with leverage. Good chase
speed and second effort. Solid hitter. Has a
knack for jarring loose the ball and creating
turnovers. Great production. Solid character.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition. Is
undersized for the end position and lacks experience at linebacker. Does not play fast. Not natural moving in reverse and could struggle to
handle NFL tight ends in coverage.
Summary: Is built more like a Sam linebacker than a defensive end and his best chance
will likely come as a linebacker. Could take
some time to develop but he has the potential at
least to be a quality backup.

WLB ALVIN

BOWEN

(6-118, 223, 4.84) IOWA STATE

Notes: Nickname is Ace. Enrolled at Garden City Community College (Kan.) out of high
school and redshirted in 2003. Led the team with
77 tackles in 04 to go along with 14 tackles for
loss and seven sacks. Transferred to Iowa State
in 05 and played in all 12 games in the fall,
totaling 33-2-1. Started all 12 games at weakside linebacker in 06, compiling 155-5-1 with

three pass breakups, one interception and one


forced fumble. Led the nation in tackles per
game with 12.9. Started all 12 games in 07, finishing with 99-1212-2 plus an interception, a
fumble recovery and five forced fumbles.
Positives: Plays faster than he times. Excellent career production. Very long arms (35 inches). Keeps his shoulders square to the line and
shuffles and slides. Agile dropping into coverage
and does a nice job of reading the quarterbacks
eyes and anticipating throws. Shows nice balance to protect his feet and play off cut blocks.
Has been durable.
Negatives: Glaringly unreliable tackler. Plays
flat-footed and is too easily juked in the openfield. Lacks weight-room strength (15 reps at
225 pounds at Combine) and functional playing
strength very weak arm tackler. Takes long
strides and shows no extra gear. Overruns plays
on the perimeter and does not attack with an
understanding of where his help is. Plays on
skates and gets taken for a ride when taking on
blockers. Plays too out of control and will overrun the ball. Not physical. Too undisciplined and
flaps his jaw too much. Skinny-legged and
small-framed. Has struggled to bulk up. Could
struggle with a complex game plan.
Summary: A small man in a big mans game,
Bowen is a leaky tackler who lacks great athleticism to compensate for missteps and mistakes.
Throw the impressive tackle numbers out the
window. He must get stronger and play with
more discipline to earn a job.

WLB BRIAN

LINEBACKERS

3/5/08

BRADFORD

(6-2, 231, 4.69) TOWSON

Notes: Appeared in eight games in 2004,


starting five. Missed four games in the middle of
the season because of a dislocated elbow. Finished with 33 tackles and four tackles for loss.
Started all 11 games in 05, totaling 72-1012 with
three sacks, one fumble recovery, one forced
fumble, one interception and five pass breakups.
Started all nine games in which he played in 06,
missing two games with a knee injury. Tallied
74-712-1 and three pass breakups. Started all 11
games in 07, leading the team with 149-13-312.
Also had four forced fumbles, an interception,
three pass breakups and a blocked kick.
Positives: Field fast and instinctive. Sniffs out
screens and draws and gets downhill fast. Solid
face-up tackler. Tough.
Negatives: Has faced marginal, low-level competition. Lacks size and bulk strength. Plays too
upright and could do a better job of protecting his
legs through traffic. Average lateral quickness.
Summary: Stands out vs. lesser competition
but must show that he is more than a big fish in
a small pond. Could compete on special teams.

WLB MARCUS

BUGGS

(5-1038, 232, 4.7e) VANDERBILT

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Played


one game as a true freshman in 2003 but sufw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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fered a torn right anterior cruciate ligament prior
to Week Two and redshirted. Started 2-of-10
games in which he played in 04 at strong safety
and recorded 13 tackles and one tackle for loss
with one pass breakup. Moved to linebacker in
05 and started 2-of-11 games on the strong side,
amassing 29-1 with one forced fumble. Started
all 12 games on the weak side in 06 and tallied
50-1012 and two sacks and added four pass
breakups, one interception and one fumble
recovery. Underwent postseason arthroscopic
surgery on his right knee. Started all 12 games in
07, notching 76-12-3 with one forced fumble
and one pass breakup.
Positives: Is athletic and fluid in coverage.
Runs hard to the ball. Shows some strength to
match up with tight ends and play the run. Vocal
team leader. Good worker.
Negatives: Too short and lacks ideal size to
match up over tight ends. Does not play fast.
Limited coverage skills. Not a great athlete in
space and struggles to break down and wrap up.
Summary: Converted safety who outshined
his more publicized teammate Jonathan Goff as
a senior and could fit as a weak-side backer in a
fast-flowing 4-3 defense used by a team such as
the Buccaneers, Colts or Bears and contribute on
special teams. An ideal backup.

SLB EZRA

BUTLER

LINEBACKERS

(6-112, 245, 4.57) NEVADA

Notes: Born in South Africa and came to the


United States when he was 14. Redshirted in
2003. Appeared in eight games as a 285-pound
defensive tackle in 04, securing 19 tackles, four
tackles for loss and one-half sack. Missed four
games with a right shoulder injury that required
surgery. Dropped weight and switched positions
in Nevadas new 3-4 scheme, starting all 12
games at strong-side linebacker in 05, and registered 75-1512-512 with three pass breakups and
two forced fumbles. Moved to bandit position
and started all 13 games in 06, compiling 7118-712 and two fumble recoveries. Started 9-of10 games in which he played in 07, missing one
game because of suspension (for a violation of
team rules) and another with a shoulder injury.
He still finished with 87-1212-212 plus three interceptions, two fumble recoveries and three forced
fumbles. Did not work out at the Combine
because of a right hamstring injury.
Positives: Good production. Well-built. Plays
on his toes. Good size-speed ratio. Versatile
former defensive end is capable playing in space
and rushing off the edge in a three-point stance.
Shows pass-rush ability with nice agility and the
speed to turn the corner. Can accelerate in backside pursuit. Can run with tight ends.
Negatives: Does not play to his size. Plays too
upright and stiff. Lacks take-on strength will
get run through by running backs, blown up by
fullbacks and blown off the ball by the doubleteam. Struggles playing off blocks. Fake tough.
Summary: Productive strong-side linebacker
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

with good size and physical tools that do not


translate onto the field. Very average against the
run and taking on blocks. He could struggle to
ever make an impact at the next level. His lack
of discipline could be his undoing.

WLB MATT

CASTELO

(5-1058, 231, 4.7e) SAN JOSE STATE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Started the last 4-of-7 games in which he
played at outside linebacker as a true freshman
in 2004, registering 36 tackles, 212 tackles for
loss and one-half sack and added one interception. Started all 11 games at outside linebacker
in 05 and recorded 91-8-3 with one pass
breakup. Started all 13 games at middle linebacker in 06, tallying 165-5-0 with four forced
fumbles and one interception. Led the nation in
total tackles. Started all 12 games in 07, recording 141-1212-2 with three fumble recoveries,
three pass breakups and one interception.
Positives: Plays hard with great energy and
intensity. Good instincts has a nose for the
ball. Plays with good pad level and natural leverage. Solid tackler. Good effort in pursuit.
Extremely productive. Great work ethic and
character. Highly respected team leader.
Negatives: Does not have a frame to get bigger and is not strong or physical. Lacks take-on
strength. Can be engulfed and struggle to disengage from blocks. Tight in the hips and takes
short, choppy steps. Does not have great coverage skills.
Summary: Is best when he is clean and protected and able to roam to the ball. Projects to
the weak side in the pros. Has a special-teams
mentality.

LB DAN

CONNOR

(6-238, 231, 4.8e) PENN STATE

Notes: Dad was a high school football coach.


Named Parade and USA Today All-American
and Big School Player of the Year by The Associated Press as a prep linebacker. As a running
back, he rushed for 4,556 career yards and 77
touchdowns. Also lettered in basketball and
track and field, competing in the high jump,
javelin, discus and shotput. Graduated high
school early and enrolled at Penn State in the
spring of his senior year. Started 4-of-11 games
at outside linebacker as a true freshman in 2004,
replacing an injured Tim Shaw and racking up
85 tackles, 412 tackles for loss and one sack.
Started the final 6-of-9 games in which he
played at outside linebacker in 05 after being
suspended the first three games of the season for
making crank phone calls to former Penn State
assistant Joe Sarra. Finished the season with 76512-112 with eight pass breakups and one fumble
returned 18 yards for a TD against Illinois. Started all 13 games at outside linebacker in 06
despite breaking a bone in his left hand prior to
the Wisconsin game and amassed 113-9-5 with
two interceptions and three forced fumbles.

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CRAIG

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

(6-4, 252, 5.09) CINCINNATI

Dan Connor

l PENN STATE

Replaced Buffalo Bills second-round pick Paul


Posluszny at middle linebacker in 07. Played in
all 13 games, starting 12, as a senior, and he
paced the team with 145-15-612 and an interception. Won the Chuck Bednarik Award as college
footballs defensive player of the year. Was ill at
the Combine and did not work out.
Positives: Very good nose for the football
does a nice job of diagnosing screens and draws.
Downhill, physical tackler. Good striker. Plays
smart and understands the game. Always around
the ball. Uses his hands well to jam receivers.
Plays with intensity and gives good effort and
chases in pursuit. Shows good awareness in
zones, keeps his head on a swivel, sees underneath crossers and reacts quickly to the thrown
ball. Very hardworking and competitive. Team
captain. Vocal leader. Superproductive finished his career as Penn States all-time leading
tackler. Is versatile.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and is not very bigframed. Not a great athlete and lacks the foot
speed and short-area burst to reach the perimeter
consistently. Shows some tightness in his movement. Lacks great size and strength and can be
late to disengage and shed blocks. Could do a
better job of timing up the blitz, making himself
small and hitting gaps. Mischievousness has gotten him into some trouble off the field, and he
could stand to mature.
Summary: Will be downgraded for his lack of

Notes: Starred in football and basketball and


also competed in track (long jump and high
jump) as a prep in Cleveland. Redshirted in
2003. Appeared in five games on special teams
in 04, making one tackle. Played in eight games
as a reserve outside linebacker in 05, with one
start. Tallied 19 tackles and 112 tackles for loss.
Joined a Bearcats basketball team that was decimated by injuries as a practice player in early
January. Returned to defensive end in 06, playing in all 13 games and totaling 16-712 and four
sacks with one fumble recovery and two pass
breakups. Moved to left defensive end and
played in all 13 games in 07, starting 11. Did
not start vs. Pittsburgh for violating team rules
and also missed a start vs. South Florida. Finished with 43-8-3 and two fumble recoveries
(one of which he returned for a 16-yard touchdown), two pass breakups and 11 QB hurries.
Notched two sacks and two forced fumbles in
the Hula Bowl on his way to earning defensive
MVP honors.
Positives: Natural athlete. Shows good edge
speed and can dip off the corner and close to the
ball. Shows some strength in his hands. Is quick
and fairly explosive. Smooth, fluid mover. Speed
and effort stood out at the Hula Bowl.
Negatives: Is thinly built and lacks bulk to
anchor vs. the run. Not strong or physical and
too easily gets controlled. Struggles to set the
edge. Could do a better job of using his hands.
Immature.
Summary: Got too big too fast, gaining 24
pounds from the time of the Hula Bowl to the
Combine and could not maintain his speed,
clocking above 5.0 in the 40 at the Combine
after running in the low 4.6s the previous spring.
Shows enough pass-rush ability to project to
rush linebacker in the pros, but he needs to be
more patient and convert his weight.

OLB-DE BRUCE

DAVIS

(6-258, 252, 4.82) UCLA

Notes: Father, Bruce Sr., lettered as an offensive tackle with the Bruins (1975-78) before
moving on to play with the Raiders (1979-87)
and Houston Oilers (1987-89). Uncle, Ronnie,
also played at UCLA (1977-79). Bruce II also
lettered in track and field as a prep. Redshirted
in 2003. Started 2-of-12 games in a rotation with
Justin Hickman and Brigham Harwell in 04,
logging 17 tackles, 312 tackles for loss and 212
sacks. Saw time at outside linebacker and defensive end as a reserve in 05, tallying 28-6-2 and
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

LINEBACKERS

OLB-DRE ANGELO

LINEBACKERS

bulk and athleticism but seamlessly kicked


inside as a senior to replace Posluszny. He
answered any questions regarding his ability to
make plays and attack the football with an
impressive Senior Bowl outing. Does a nice job
of filtering through traffic and taking on blocks,
but his lack of girth could keep him outside.

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four pass breakups. Started all 13 games at
defensive end in 06, amassing 47-1712-1212,
three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Started all 13 games in 07 and totaled 45-15-12
with nine pass breakups, one forced fumble and
two fumble recoveries.
Positives: Is fairly athletic with long arms and
shows some pass-rush ability. Plays hard and
gives good effort. Shows a burst to close. Has
NFL pedigree.
Negatives: Struggles to match up against size
and dig a hole vs. the run. Is too easily controlled. Can be late to locate the ball. Will struggle vs. bigger blockers. Not very instinctive.
Average strength and power. Production came
against average competition and came in spurts,
often when he was unblocked.
Summary: One-trick pony who worked out
well at the Combine and looked athletic enough
to bring value as a 3-4 outside linebacker.

LB JORDON

DIZON

(5-1178, 229, 4.73) COLORADO

Notes: Also lettered in track and soccer in


high school. Started 11-of-13 games at middle
linebacker as a true freshman, tallying 85 tackles, six tackles for loss and one sack with four
pass breakups. Started 12-of-13 games in 05,
registering 65-7-3 with one pass breakup.
Deferred his starting position during the Big 12
title game for then-senior Akarika Dawn, who
was playing in his hometown. Started 11-of-12
games in 06, recording 137-7-4 with one forced
fumble and one fumble recovery. Selected as a
team captain. Started all 12 games in 07 at
weak-side linebacker, finishing with 160-7-4,
leading the nation in solo tackles (120).
Received an IV drip at halftime of nearly every
game because of dehydration.
Positives: Incredibly productive. Has a
tremendous nose for the football. Filters through
traffic and squeezes through holes extremely
well. Shows good agility to slip and avoid blockers and arrive at the ball in a hurry. Keeps his
eyes upfield. Plays on his toes and changes
direction effortlessly. Can fill the hole and tackle with power. Surprising take-on strength.
Extremely active, plays 100 miles per hour and
covers a lot of ground. Shows a great short-area
burst, can sink his hips and accelerate. Plays
with a sense of urgency and an on-field intensity that sets the tone for the defense. Very aggressive blitzer who knows how to dip, make himself
skinny and take an edge. Relentlessly competitive. Outstanding character. Has a passion for the
game. Good football intelligence. Will play
through pain.
Negatives: Lacks size and upper-body
strength. Does not consistently break down in
space as a tackler will leave his feet, lead with
his shoulder and whiff. Too much of his production comes from moving laterally and lassoing
ballcarriers. Can overpursue and take bad
angles. Struggles to shed blocks will get
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sealed on the second level and open lanes for


some big runs. Was not asked to cover a lot and
has deficiencies in man coverage. Awkward in
pass coverage plays tall in pass drops and
does not react quickly. Has had some shoulder
injuries.
Summary: Lined up inside all four years and
was rarely asked to cover. Did not look very
comfortable outside at the Senior Bowl, but
could still make a living there in the pros. Could
warrant interest from a Tampa-2 team on the
inside if he can unlock his hips and improve his
coverage. Should be solid on special teams.

MLB JOLONN JOEY

DUNBAR

(6-012, 231, 4.84) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Rushed for a school-record 5,136


yards and 56 touchdowns as a prep. Redshirted
in 2003 and converted to linebacker late in the
year. Played in 10 games in 04, missing two
with a hamstring injury, and registered 37 tackles and 212 tackles for loss with two pass
breakups and one forced fumble. Started 1-of12 games in 05, tallying 50-5 and one-half
sack with three pass breakups and one forced
fumble. Started 11 games in 06, compiling 92712-2 with one interception and three fumble
recoveries. Missed two games because of a
right high ankle sprain and right shoulder
injury. Returned two fumbles for touchdowns
vs. Maryland. Hampered by an ankle injury in
07 that caused him to start only 9-of-13 games
and forced him to miss the Maryland game.
Tallied 90-412-0 and one interception. Voted
team captain as a junior and as a senior. Did not
run shuttles at the Combine because of a left
hamstring injury.
Positives: Has a solid, compact build with
good musculature. Plays smart. Instinctive and
has a good nose for the football. Is quicker than
fast and quick in short areas. Is tough and will
fill downhill and take on the lead. Plays to the
whistle and never assumes he is out of a play.
Shows great awareness. Shows a great burst in
short areas. Solid tackler. Gets depth in his drops
and shows good zone recognition. Fiery competitor. Emotional, take-charge leader. Excellent
work habits.
Negatives: Is undersized and lacks the natural
girth to get much bigger and can be washed out
of plays. Has short arms and struggles to shed
blocks. Does not have great speed to chase to the
perimeter. Could be outmatched in man coverage. Average upper-body strength. Lack of size
could create durability issues could wear
down in November.
Summary: Is not big or flashy but compensates for average measurables with heart, toughness and football intelligence. Possesses outstanding intangibles and makes those around
him better. A better football player than athlete,
Dunbar could develop into a solid backup and
special-teams contributor, but he will pay even
greater dividends in the locker room.

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OLB-DRE CURTIS

GATEWOOD

(6-2, 248, 4.76) VANDERBILT

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track.


Redshirted in 2003. Played all 11 games at outside linebacker in 04 and recorded nine tackles.
Moved to right defensive end in 05 and
appeared in all 11 games, totaling 22 tackles and
212 tackles for loss. Suffered a broken right foot
during 06 spring practice but returned to start
all 12 games in the fall, registering 49-8 and
seven sacks with one interception, three forced
fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Started all
12 games in 07 at right defensive end, tallying
30-7-312 plus a forced fumble.
Positives: Compact frame with wide shoulders and a muscular base and has room to grow.
Good short-area burst. Shows some pop in his
hands. Plays with enough strength, leverage,
base and balance to sustain against the doubleteam. Shows nice pop in his punch. A natural
bender. Plays with discipline and great effort.
Runs to the ball and chases from the backside.
Good range. Versatility is a plus. Good work
habits. Tough. Performed very well in agility
and positional drills at the Combine.
Negatives: Does not show great speed to turn
the corner. Needs to get bigger and stronger. A
bit undersized and lacks lower-body mass to
anchor in the pros. Needs to spend time in an
NFL conditioning program. Not an explosive
striker. Does not show the play strength to walk
blockers back.
Summary: Played out of position at right
defensive end and likely will reap the most value
as a rush linebacker in the pros. Sack production
decreased as a senior when he was asked to stunt
more inside as backers were coming off his outside hip to bring pressure. Stood out in positional drills as a linebacker at the Combine and
could still get looks as an upfield edge rusher in
a 4-3 front, but he projects best to rush linebacker for an aggressive 3-4 front used by a
team like the Steelers or Ravens.

MLB JONATHAN

GOFF

(6-2, 245, 4.71) VANDERBILT

Notes: Also lettered in track and basketball.


Redshirted in 2003. Started the final 4-of-11
games at middle linebacker in 04 and recorded
38 tackles and added one forced fumble. Started
all 11 games at middle linebacker in 05 despite
sustaining a partially torn medial collateral ligament. Amassed 63 tackles, three tackles for loss
and one sack. Started all 12 games in 06 and
compiled 93-6-212 with two pass breakups, one
interception and two forced fumbles and a
blocked kick. Started all 12 games in 07, totaling 113-612-3 plus two interceptions. Twice
voted a team captain.
Positives: Has a muscular build with long
arms and good bulk. Very productive. Intelligent. Very durable. Good worker. Worked out as
well as any inside backer in the draft at the
Combine, bench-pressing 225 pounds 28 times

to pace all ILBs and performing well in agility


drills.
Negatives: Too stiff. Does not play downhill.
Almost all of his production comes when moving laterally. Is often the last linebacker to move.
Has average instincts and is too cautious making
reads. Plays too slow, heavy-legged and flatfooted. Too tight-hipped. Limited agility
struggles to change direction and cannot recover
from the slightest misstep. Shows marginal balance and awareness and struggles to maneuver
through traffic. Too easily chopped down by the
cut block. Not a physical tackler. Average playing strength. Glaringly soft when taking on and
shedding blockers and too often runs underneath
blocks and gets sealed off. Appears overwhelmed in pass coverage and struggles to
cover. Too robotic and plays like he is afraid to
make a mistake.
Summary: Produced the best all-around numbers of any inside backer at the Combine but
lumbers when he runs and is overwhelmed in the
open field. He does not play to workout numbers
nor does he have the instincts and thump desired
in a middle backer. Might fit best as a Sam
linebacker and contributor on special teams.

MLB TAVARES

LINEBACKERS

3/5/08

GOODEN

(6-114, 234, 4.61) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Florida state champion in the discus as


a high school senior. Played all 13 games as a
true freshman in 2003 and recorded 10 tackles.
Started the first 9-of-12 games in which he
played at weak-side linebacker in 04 before suffering a shoulder injury. Finished with 83 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and one-half sack. Started at strong-side linebacker in the 05 season
opener and recorded 3-0-0 before sustaining a
dislocated left shoulder and redshirting. Started
5-of-11 games in which he played at strong-side
linebacker in 06, surrendering six starts to nickel defenses, and notched 41-5-0 with two pass
breakups despite missing two contests with a
concussion. Started all 12 games in 07 and finished with 100-3-0. Also had one interception
and three fumble recoveries. Graduated with a
double major in liberal arts and criminology. Did
not finish drills or his pro-day workout because
of a hip pointer injury that he had suffered in the
Boston College game.
Positives: Looks the part excellent musculature with a strong lower body. Runs fast to the
ball and shows a burst in pursuit. Could handle
movement from both sides. Very good sidelineto-sideline range vs. the run can get to the
corner. Good production. Flies all over the field.
Solid, face-up tackler with good striking ability.
Shows take-on strength.
Negatives: Looks like he is missing a piston
because of reactions that are a second slow.
Shows some tightness in his hips and lower body
and can lose a little time transitioning and
changing direction. Instincts are noticeably off.
Wastes movement and takes missteps gets
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Notes: Not in school in 2003 after failing to


qualify academically at Murray State. Enrolled
at the City College of San Francisco from 200405 and earned Junior College National Player of
the Year, California JUCO Player of the Year and
first-team JUCO All-American honors as a
sophomore after recording 85 tackles, six interceptions and six blocked punts. Transferred to
Ohio State in 06 and started 1-of-12 games in
which he played at the SLB spot, totaling 18
tackles, one-half tackle for loss via a sack and
one interception. Started all 13 games in 07 at
strong-side linebacker, recording 51-912-5 with
one interception.
Positives: Gives good effort and chases hard
to the ball. Is versatile and has lined up at a number of positions. Good agility. Tough. Secure
open-field tackler. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Too thinly
built. Lacks anchor strength to set the edge.
Does not show great instincts and can be late to
find the ball. Plays too tall and can be controlled.
Not a strong, forceful, drive-through tackler.
Summary: Lined up on the strong side but
projects best to the weak side in the pros. Has a
shot to stick as a special-teams performer and
solid swing backup but he needs to get stronger
and play with better pad level.

games in 06 and registered 37-12-912 with three


forced fumbles. Graduated in 06. Started 7-of11 games in which he played in 07, missing the
Vanderbilt and Auburn contests with three dislocated toes suffered vs. Florida, an injury with
which he played the remainder of the season.
Totaled 38-7-3 and two forced fumbles and finished tied as the schools career leader in sacks
(26).
Positives: Quick-twitch athlete who has very
good straight-line speed. Has explosive speed to
beat blockers off the ball and is quick turning the
corner. Great closing speed. Very active on the
edges. Can extend, lock out and control blockers. Flashes the ability to react, shoot gaps and
be very disruptive. Good balance and body control. Shows the agility to
blanket tight ends and
backs. Very productive.
Negatives: Struggled
with a foot injury as a
senior and was very limited without his speed.
Lacks bulk and bulk
strength. Plays too
upright and without
leverage. Does not consistently hold ground vs.
the run. Is not physical
and takes too many plays
Quentin Groves l
off. Not competitive.
AUBURN
Marginal chase speed
and effort. Pile jumper. Loses battles and whiffs
on tackles in space. Plays too out of control.
Relies too heavily on upfield speed and does not
vary his pass rush. Does not play with great
awareness and loses contain. Is easily engulfed
and gets neutralized by size. Lacks pop in his
punch. Has questionable character and will need
to be managed closely.
Summary: Was exposed as a one-dimensional
speed rusher and struggled to make an impact as
a senior after dislocating three toes. Got by with
speed and athleticism at the college level, but
must develop his pass-rush arsenal further and
improve his take-on strength to fulfill his potential. Appeared healthy and turned in a sub-4.6
40-yard dash at the Combine, showing he possesses the speed to warrant a look at 3-4 rush
linebacker. Has boom-or-bust potential.

OLB-DRE QUENTIN

MLB GARY

fooled by misdirection and runs into the linebackers next to him while misdiagnosing plays.
Bites on play-action. Will overlap the ball when
he should be hitting gaps. Not a thumper and do
not hear pads clicking in practice. Lacks the fire
and intensity of most Miami linebackers. Mental
toughness remains a question showed up at
the Senior Bowl but did not play (pulled groin,
hip injury) and is not a nail-eater who likes to
play through pain.
Summary: A better athlete than football player, Gooden makes most of his plays in chaseand-pursuit mode and would be best in a simple
scheme where he is not asked to do a lot of processing. Is not a thumper and struggled with the
mental aspects of the game until he was moved
inside as a senior and the light came on. Will
need to be coached with sensitivity and patience
and will require patience to develop.

WLB LARRY

GRANT

(6-1, 235, 4.78) OHIO STATE

GROVES

GUYTON

(6-3, 259, 4.56) AUBURN

(6-158, 245, 4.54) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Married. Earned USA Today secondteam All-USA honors after recording 22 sacks
as a high school senior. Also lettered in basketball, track and field and powerlifting as a prep.
Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 13 games as
part of a rotation at defensive end in 04, tallying
23 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 712 sacks with
two forced fumbles. Against Kentucky, he posted four sacks and two forced fumbles. Started 3of-12 games in 05, totaling 21-8-6 with one batted ball and one forced fumble. Started all 13

Notes: Special-teams performer in 2004 as a


true freshman. Started 1-of-12 games in 05 and
notched 19 tackles, three tackles for loss and one
sack. Started 11-of-14 games at strong-side linebacker in 06, giving way to nickel defenses on
three occasions and posting 29-8-2. Started all
13 games in 07, recording 78-1312-5 and five
pass breakups.
Positives: Looks the part with long arms and
a big, solid frame. Can open his stride and really run in a straight line. Excellent vertical explo-

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sion. Stood out on special teams and delivered
some hellacious hits. Good worker.
Negatives: Too linear, tight-hipped and
straight-linish. Does not have great instincts for
the position. Not laterally quick to change direction and struggled playing on the weak side.
Does not use his hands very well to shed and disengage. Does not play with discipline. Not alert
in coverage. Lacks upper-body strength only
bench-pressed 225 pounds 15 times at the Combine, fewer than some quarterbacks and cornerbacks.
Summary: Entered the lineup inside late in the
year and caught notice at the East-West Shrine
game and the Senior Bowl and continued his
postseason climb with a strong Combine performance. Is still raw and learning the game, but he
has enough physical ability to mold and should
make an immediate contribution on special
teams. Has a frame to grow into.

MLB VINCE

HALL

(5-11, 232, 5.08) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Named Virginia Gatorade Player of the


Year as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started the
final 12-of-13 games at middle linebacker in
04, registering 64 tackles, 412 tackles for loss
and one sack with three pass breakups and one
forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 05 and
recorded 112-812-3 with eight pass breakups and
two interceptions, including a 13-yard TD return
against Boston College. Also returned a fumble
15 yards for a score. Started all 13 games in 06,
tallying 128-1012-2 with one pass breakup, two
forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Started
all 10 games in which he played in 07, missing
four contests with a bruised knee and a broken
left forearm and wrist sustained vs. Clemson. He
finished with 100-612-312 plus one interception.
Did not work out or lift at the Combine after
having his left knee scoped and because of the
left wrist injury.
Positives: Very good instincts. Diagnoses
quickly and plays fast. Good football intelligence. Solid tackler. Makes plays on the other
side of the line. Moves at the snap and can anticipate where the ball is going. Plays faster than he
times. Keeps his shoulders square to the line,
shuffles and slides and leverages the ball. Takes
good angles. Strong, drive-through tackler.
Good worker. Emotional leader. Plays with energy and has a passion for the game.
Negatives: Lacks speed to get to the perimeter and get depth in coverage. Has a very limited
playing range and will struggle to operate outside the box in the pros. Is short and tighthipped. Size and speed limitations could leave
him vulnerable to injury.
Summary: Productive four-year starter who
plays much faster than he will time, but he might
struggle to make plays given his limited range
outside the tackle box and might never be more
than a two-down run plugger. Has good intangibles and can be pegged to provide depth and

contribute on special teams.

WLB GENO

HAYES (Junior)

(6-078, 226, 4.67) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Parade All-American as a prep in Florida. Saw action in all 13 games as a true freshman
in 2005, playing mostly on special teams. Totaled
17 tackles, one pass breakup and two QB hurries.
Recovered a blocked punt in the endzone against
Clemson. Started all 10 games in which he played
in 06 at weak-side linebacker, missing three-plus
games after spraining two knee ligaments while
making a tackle in the first quarter of a win over
Duke. Returned to start the final three games of
the season. Tallied 59 tackles, 12 tackles for loss
and three sacks. Added three pass breakups and
an interception. Started 12-of-13 games in 07,
totaling 80-1712-5 with two forced fumbles, one
fumble recovery, three pass breakups and an
interception. Was arrested along with teammate
Joe Surratt for their participation in a fight on
Sept. 21, 2007, during the Seminoles bye week.
Hayes was charged with three misdemeanor
counts: assault on an officer, resisting arrest without violence and disorderly conduct. Officers
noticed Hayes screaming profanities outside Potbellys Bar in Tallahassee and tried to talk to him,
but he became aggressive. When officers tried to
handcuff him, he resisted and was tasered. Was
benched for the first quarter of the Alabama game
and received undisclosed disciplinary punishment from the coaching staff.
Positives: Good athlete. Has a great instinct
for hitting holes when they uncover and bee-lining to the ballcarrier behind the line of scrimmage. Plays with balance and can sift through
traffic with ease. Has excellent range and makes
plays sideline to sideline. Plays fast and can run
in pursuit. Is loose-hipped and can explode on
contact and strike with some force for his size.
Outstanding production.
Negatives: Very narrow-framed and thinhipped and does not have the type of frame to
support much more weight. Lacks take-on
strength. Struggles to shed blocks and easily gets
engulfed. Will lose physical battles gets bent
backward and is eliminated when engaged. Too
small to line up over the tight end. Tries to run
around blocks rather than take on and shed.
Character is suspect.
Summary: Lack of size and take-on strength
will limit him to the weak side in the pros. Is still
learning the game and will need to develop
physically and adhere to a NFL strength-andconditioning program before he is ready to contribute. A smaller version of former Rams LB
Tommy Polley, Hayes will fit best in a pressure
4-3 defense used by a team like the Colts, Eagles
and Lions.

WLB ERIN

HENDERSON (Junior)

(6-234, 244, 4.77) MARYLAND

Notes: Older brother, E.J., was a secondround pick of the Minnesota Vikings in 2003
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after being a two-time All-American at the University of Maryland. Erin played quarterback
and linebacker and also played basketball and
ran track as a prep. Entered college as a quarterback but moved to linebacker midway through
his redshirt season as a true freshman in 2004.
Missed the 05 season after tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament during the second week of
fall camp. Played in all 13 games, starting 12 at
weak-side linebacker in 06. Totaled 114 tackles,
612 tackles for loss and one sack. Also had three
forced fumbles and two interceptions. Started all
12 games in which he played in 07, missing the
Georgia Tech game with a left knee injury. Finished the season with 133-11-1 plus four fumble
recoveries, one forced fumble and an interception.
Positives: Looks the part with a chiseled
physique. Long-limbed, natural athlete with big
hands. Will drop his shoulder and deliver some
big shots when he has an angle. Times up blitzes
well and can beat guards out of their stance. Can
squeeze through the line and make plays in the
backfield. Does a nice job of sifting through traffic. Good playing range. Gets depth in coverage.
Secure tackler. Emotional team leader who commands respect. Has NFL bloodlines. Plays
through injuries.
Negatives: Has a very lean build and spindly
legs. Lacks take-on strength and struggles to
escape blockers. Can be put on his back. Too
often overpursues against the run and opens up
the cut-back lane and gives up some big plays.
Needs to play with more discipline. Tends to
leave his feet and lunge too much as a tackler
and misses his share of tackles. Could be more
physical. Too often gets sealed off running
around blocks. Not aggressive filling the hole.
Does not show great acceleration or top-end
speed. Cannot recover from missteps. Not a
great athlete. Has suffered multiple knee injuries
and played with a big brace on his left knee as a
junior.
Summary: Riding a wave of NFL bloodlines
and name recognition should help his cause, but
he is not as physical as his brother. Lacks takeon strength and gives up a lot of big plays. He
best fits on the weak side in a cover-2 scheme
where the action is funneled his way.

WLB ALI

HIGHSMITH

(5-1158, 230, 4.99) LSU

Notes: First name is Arlington. Cousin, Alonzo, played running back at Miami (Fla.) before
being drafted third overall by the Houston Oilers
in 1987 and playing six seasons with Houston
(1987-89), Dallas (1990-91) and Tampa Bay
(1991-92). Alonzo is in his 10th year as a Southwest region scout for the Green Bay Packers. Ali
originally signed with Miami (Fla.) in 2003, but
he never enrolled because of academics. Sat out
the fall and eventually enrolled at LSU in January 04. Started 2-of-12 games at strong-side
linebacker as a true freshman in 04, posting 21
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. In 05,


started 9-of-13 games at weak-side linebacker
and registered 75-912-4 with three forced fumbles and a 22-yard fumble-return for a TD
against Vanderbilt. Moved to the Buck
(strong-side) LB spot in 06 and started all 13
games, racking up 63-512-3 with four pass
breakups and two forced fumbles. Sat out 07
spring practice after undergoing minor offseason
surgery on both ankles. Started all 14 games at
OLB spot in the fall, finishing with 101-9-3 to
go with two forced fumbles and one fumble
recovery. Did not bench-press at the Combine
because of a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Plays much faster than his timed
speed and shows good sideline-to-sideline
range. Can run with receivers and burst out of
his breaks. Shows very good second effort.
Good awareness in coverage reads the quarterback and will jump routes. Can close quickly
to the ball when he sees it. Steps up vs. elite
competition. Solid wrap tackler. Competes hard.
Solid character. Very likable personality. Very
good production.
Negatives: Plays too upright and loses leverage. Lacks explosion and will struggle to carry
extra bulk. Too often makes bad reads or gets
caught off guard. Does not play with a lot of
awareness. Loses sight of the ball and struggles
to find it. Will take false steps and get sealed off
and earholed. Could do a better job of using his
hands and playing off blocks. Has had multiple
ankle injuries, and his long-term durability
could be a consideration.
Summary: Clocked above 5.0 in the 40 at the
Combine but was said to be hampered by a groin
injury that clearly contributed to his alarmingly
slow performance. Fits as a fast-flowing, weakside linebacker in a 4-3 pressure defense and at
worst should bring value as a nickel backer on
third downs. Has the functional playing speed,
toughness and demeanor to make a mark on special teams. Leaves too much production on the
field for a three-year starter, and his questionable
instincts and average striking ability always
could be limiting factors.

OLB-PRS ANTHONY

HOKE

(6-0, 249, 4.53) CINCINNATI

Notes: Ohio Division I Defensive Player of


the Year as a prep. Saw action as a true freshman
in 2004, playing in the final eight games and registering 12 tackles, 112 tackles for loss and 112
sacks. Made three starts in 10 games in 05, lining up at defensive end and linebacker and moving inside to defensive tackle on passing downs.
Played the last two months of the season with a
club on his right hand to protect a broken thumb.
Also missed a game after dislocating his left
shoulder. Finished the season registering 21-2-2
and three forced fumbles. Started all 13 games at
end in 06, racking up 35-812-512. Played in all 13
games in 07, starting 12 at right defensive end,
and finished with 58-1612-13. Also had seven QB

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hurries, three pass breakups, one forced fumble
and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Has excellent straight-line speed
and can get up the field fast. Is naturally strong
and athletically gifted. Fairly instinctive and can
find the ball.
Negatives: Is short and short-armed. Undersized and underpowered for the end position.
Runs himself wide out of plays and lacks great
strength to leverage the edge. Lacks great
instincts. Will struggle to anchor against the run.
Not a varied pass rusher and needs to develop
more pass-rush moves. Once he is engaged by
blockers, he is done. Takes some plays off. Too
tightly wound. Thinks he is better than he is and
talks too much. Not a great worker.
Summary: One-dimensional, straight-line
speed rusher who will always be limited by his
short arms even if he is simply asked to pin his
ears back and fly at the snap. Showed some
promise at linebacker at the Hula Bowl. Will
have to make it on special teams while developing as a linebacker.

OLB-DRE MARCUS

HOWARD

(6-012, 237, 4.46) GEORGIA

Notes: Also lettered in high school basketball


and track, placing third in the 100 and 200
meters at the 2002 South Carolina Class 2A state
championships. Redshirted in 03. Appeared in
11 games as a reserve at strong-side linebacker
in 04 and notched three tackles. Transitioned to
defensive end in 05 and played in all 13 games,
recording 24 tackles, 112 tackles for loss and 112
sacks. Appeared in all 13 games in 06 as a
reserve behind 2007 third-round picks Quentin
Moses (currently of the Miami Dolphins) and
Charles Johnson (Carolina Panthers), and finished with 11-0-0, one forced fumble and one
recovered fumble. Started all 13 games in 07 at
defensive end, compiling 41-12-1012 with three
batted balls, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, and earned MVP honors in the
Sugar Bowl vs. Hawaii after notching three
sacks. Pulled his left quad while running the 40
at the Combine and did not finish the workout.
Positives: Has exceptional speed and can get
off the ball with explosion. Proved to be very disruptive as an edge rusher. Very good speed and
burst to close. Could contribute on special teams.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Undersized. Very reliant on speed and lacks take-on
strength. Gets washed too easily. Not instinctive.
Can be one-dimensional. Does not play with
power. Average instincts is late to find the
ball. Does not feel pressure well or use his hands
well to get off blocks. Shows raw technique and
struggles making plays in traffic or against size.
Struggles to hold ground against the run and gets
engulfed too easily. Too stiff in the hips.
Summary: Finished the season strong, then
blazed an outstanding 40-time at the Combine.
Comes in the same mold as Ravens 2007 fourthrounder Antwan Barnes and could be converted

to rush linebacker in a 3-4 front. Could be turned


loose on third downs initially until he gets
stronger and adds enough bulk to defend the run.
Also could warrant looks as a 4-3 defensive right
end and situational pass rusher.

WLB MIKE

HUMPAL

(6-212, 244, 4.84) IOWA

Notes: Also lettered in wrestling and track as


a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Saw action in the
first two games of 04 before suffering a back
injury and missing the remainder of season.
Played in all 12 games in 05, recording 25 tackles, one tackle for loss and two pass breakups as
a backup for Minnesota Vikings 06 first-round
pick Chad Greenway. Started 12-of-13 games at
weak-side linebacker in 06 and notched 49-412
with three pass breakups and three interceptions.
Started all 12 games in 07 at the WLB spot,
recording 123-512 and one sack with five pass
breakups, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Gives great effort and runs hard to
the ball. Good chase speed. Is agile and moves
well laterally. Gets depth in his drops and shows
awareness in coverage will pick up crossers
and find receivers passing through his zone.
Negatives: Plays short-armed. Gets fooled by
play-action and does not have great instincts.
Stays blocked and is late to shed. Lacks great
take-on strength and does not play physical. Not
a great open-field tackler. Not a fluid, sudden
mover. Struggles to handle tight ends and backs
in man coverage.
Summary: High-effort overachiever with few
distinguishable traits. Ideal backup who could
contribute on special teams and bring some versatility.

WLB MALIK

JACKSON

(6-134, 222, 4.65e) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Saw action in 11 games as a true freshman in 2004 and totaled eight tackles. In 05,
started 4-of-12 games as an injury replacement
for Abe Brown and registered 30 tackles, one
tackle for loss and two pass breakups. Started all
13 games at strong-side linebacker in 06 and
secured 57-16 and nine sacks along with three
pass breakups, three fumble recoveries and two
forced fumbles. Started 7-of-12 games in which
he played in 07 at strong-side linebacker. He
recorded 43-412-1 with one interception and one
fumble recovery.
Positives: Has some pass-rush ability. Can
chase down backs to the perimeter. Fairly athletic to run with tight ends and drop into coverage.
Negatives: Undersized and thinly built. Not
physical and can be outmuscled and overpowered. Average instincts. Not disciplined. Gets
hooked and sealed and plays too small. Not a
strong tackler. Not a worker. Lacks passion for
the game and needs to be motivated.
Summary: Regressed as a senior and lacks
the bulk, instincts and passion needed to make
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it. Will have to make it on special teams.

WLB ROBERT

JAMES

LINEBACKERS

LINEBACKERS

(5-1012, 219, 4.6e) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: Starred in football and track as a prep


in Phoenix. Redshirted in 2003. Played in 10
games in 04, collecting six tackles, one tackle
for loss and one sack. Moved from defensive
back to linebacker prior to 05 season when he
played in 11 games, starting six at the Will LB
spot. Totaled 36-5-1 with six pass breakups. Did
not play in the Insight Bowl vs. Rutgers in order
to take care of his ailing father in Mississippi.
Played in the first eight games of the 06 season
before the effects of a concussion that he suffered
in practice in the week leading up to the seventh
game forced him to sit out the final five games.
Tallied 26-412-1 with one forced fumble. Left the
team to be with his family while his son, Robert
III, underwent successful arthroscopic surgery to
correct breathing problems in December 2006.
Was involved in a car accident in spring of 07
when his car was run off the road by a diesel
truck. Spent 212 weeks in the hospital and missed
most of spring practice. Came back to have a
breakthrough season in 07 after head coach
Dennis Erickson assumed control and vowed to
play the best players. James started all 13 games
and totaled 106-912-212 plus four interceptions
and a forced fumble. Pulled up with a hamstring
injury while running the 40 at the Combine.
Positives: Quick and instinctive. Plays bigger
than his size and makes plays all over the field.
Always around the ball. Good upper-body
strength. Has quick feet, balance and the agility to
flip his hips, turn and run. Plays with a lot of energy. Plays physical. Takes good angles. Can run
and hit. Good short snap, pop and punch against
the inside run. Can beat blockers to the ball, getting underneath and slipping blocks. Quick to
sniff out screens and draws. Gets good depth in
his drops, plays the quarterback and reacts to the
thrown ball. Can swivel his hips, plant and drive
on the ball. Has a quiet intensity and is very driven. Has overcome a lot of adversity.
Negatives: Tweener lacks the bulk to play
linebacker and could struggle with speed in the
secondary. Shows some tightness in his hips.
Lacks take-on strength to step up in the hole.
Injury history needs further examination.
Summary: A good football player who still
has to add bulk to fit as a weak-side linebacker
in a cover-2 scheme. Could also be considered as
an in-the-box safety after showing up light at the
Combine but will have to show that he can run
and cover in spring workouts to make the transition. His durability is a consideration. He will fit
best in a fast-flowing defense used by a team
such as the Colts, Lions or Bears.

OLB-DE CURTIS

JOHNSON

(6-258, 242, 4.74) CLARK-ATLANTA

Notes: Brother, J.R., was a linebacker with


Syracuse (2000-01) and the Baltimore Ravens
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

(02). Curtis played football, basketball and track


(sprints) in high school in Syracuse, N.Y. Worked
in 03 before attending Morrisville (N.Y.) State
College in 04 and 05. He started all 10 games
at linebacker/defensive end in 04, totaling 88
tackles, 1912 tackles for loss and 12 sacks with
three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one
pass breakup and two blocked kicks. Also
returned one punt for 15 yards. Started nine
games in 05, finishing with 64-17-9 with two
forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, four pass
breakups and four blocked kicks. Returned punts
2-18 (9.0-yard average). Transferred to ClarkAtlanta in 06 and started all 10 games despite
having surgery to repair the AC joint in his left
shoulder prior to the season. Finished with 7018-5 and nine forced fumbles (best in the nation),
four fumble recoveries and one interception.
Started all 11 games at defensive end in 07, tallying 112-27-1312 with one forced fumble, one
fumble recovery, six pass breakups and one
blocked kick. Did not complete his Combine
workout because of sore hamstrings.
Positives: Looks the part and is chiseled up
top. Very good athlete. Runs fast in a straight
line. Is disruptive with excellent production. Has
a good frame to grow into. Plays with good
strength in his hands to control blockers. Good
upper-body strength. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Relied on superior athleticism vs.
marginal competition. Not very instinctive and
can be slow to read, react and change direction.
Lacks great quickness as an edge rusher. Will
need to prove he can transition to playing on his
feet in the pros. Could take some time to digest
an NFL playbook.
Summary: Small-school standout flashed his
speed at the Combine and proved he could stand
up and play linebacker at the East-West Shrine
game. Will have to adjust to the complexity, size
and speed of the pro game. He could thrive if he
is given simple reads and responsibilities. He
has received a lot of love from teams employing
3-4 defenses because of his size, strength and
pass-rush ability.

ILB RODRICK

JOHNSON

(6-214, 254, 4.9e) OKLAHOMA STATE

Notes: Saw action in nine games as a true


freshman in 2004 and secured eight tackles. Started 1-of-11 games at middle linebacker in 05,
compiling 74 tackles, six tackles for loss and one
sack with two forced fumbles and two recoveries.
Started 10-of-13 games in 06 and tallied 69-8-2
and two pass breakups. Was moved to defensive
end in the spring of 07. Started 1-of-13 games in
which he played in 07 at outside linebacker,
recording 30-212-0 with one interception.
Positives: Has very good size and plays
downhill. Shows some take-on strength and will
strike with authority. Plays with confidence and
emotion.
Negatives: Too stiff and tight-hipped and is a
liability in coverage. Lacks the foot quickness to

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make plays to the perimeter. Limited play range.
Not a reliable open-field tackler.
Summary: His best season came as a junior,
when he lined up full-time at middle linebacker.
Flashed some striking ability and toughness at
the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game after moving back to the inside and could warrant a
chance as a two-down thumper. His best chance
could come inside in a 3-4 defense, where he has
enough range to play tackle to tackle.

OLB JEREMY

JONES

(6-014, 238, 4.75e) UTEP

Notes: Returned six punts for touchdowns as


a prep. Also lettered in basketball and track.
Played in all 13 games as a true freshman in
2003 and secured nine tackles. Appeared in all
12 games in 04, logging 39 tackles, three tackles for loss and one sack. Started all 12 games at
weak-side linebacker in 05, amassing 130-14123 and four forced fumbles, three pass breakups
and two interceptions. Started the first two
games of 06 and posted 24-2-1 before breaking
his right fibula and redshirting. Sat out 07
spring practice to recover from the leg injury.
Started all 12 games in 07 at weak-side linebacker, finishing with 96-11-2 and three forced
fumbles plus one pass breakup.
Positives: Plays hard and runs to the ball.
Great motor and effort. Will step up to take on
blocks. Plays through pain.
Negatives: Too top-heavy. Can get up on
blocks and struggle to come free. Not overly
strong or physical. Not a great athlete. Does not
show a lot of awareness in coverage and is not
quick to drive on the ball. Not quick or sudden.
Will struggle to match up with top tight ends in
man coverage. Could need some reps to handle
a complex game plan. Has been dinged up (leg,
toe, hand) a lot throughout his career.
Summary: Was slow to recover from his leg
injury and did not look like he had the same
spring in his legs early in the season, but showed
gradual improvement late in the year and flashed
at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game. his
ticket will have to come on special teams.

OLB STANFORD

KEGLAR

(6-158, 239, 4.64) PURDUE

Notes: Father played basketball at Arkansas


State. Stanford also lettered in swimming and
track and field as a prep. Appeared in one game
as a true freshman in 2003 but suffered a right
high ankle sprain and redshirted. Started all 12
games at weak-side linebacker in 04, totaling
61 tackles, four tackles for loss and one-half
sack with three pass breakups, one interception
and one forced fumble. Started 6-of-10 games in
which he played in 05 and amassed 50-3-1 with
one interception and one fumble recovery. In
06, started 10-of-14 games four at weak-side
linebacker, five at strong-side linebacker and one
as a nickel defender (vs. Hawaii) and registered 69-2-0 with five pass breakups, one inter-

ception, one forced fumble and one fumble


recovery. Started all 13 games in 07 and recorded 70-4-0 with three pass breakups. In September 07, was charged with misdemeanor counts
of disorderly conduct and false informing, stemming from a fight at a West Lafayette, Ind. nightclub in which teammate Selwyn Lymon was
stabbed in the chest.
Positives: Good size. Is athletic and moves
well. Plays smart. Excellent upper-body
strength. Bench-pressed 225 pounds 29 times at
the Combine and paced the linebackers in agility drills. Is competitive and works hard in the
weight room. Very committed to offseason conditioning. Good speed to chase to the perimeter.
Gets depth in zone drops. Has the strength to
jam and control tight ends. Solid production.
Negatives: Not tough or physical. Lacks takeon strength. Questionable instincts takes
some false steps and can be late to react. Struggles some when tackling in the open field and
could become a more secure and physical tackler. Disappears too much. Could do a better job
of using his hands as a blitzer. Character must be
evaluated.
Summary: Athletic, run-and-hit edge player
whose outstanding Combine performance will
elevate his draft stock considerably. Better athlete than football player. Does not have the film
to support where he will get drafted but he does
have upside. He might be best playing over the
tight end and has enough athletic ability to back
up at Sam and Will backer.

WLB BRYAN

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KEHL

(6-214, 242, 4.69) BRIGHAM YOUNG

Notes: Older brothers, Ed and Brandon,


played for the BYU football team. Saw action
as a true freshman reserve linebacker in 12
games in 2002, tallying 14 tackles. Served on a
church mission in Toronto, Ontario for two
years before returning for the 05 season.
Played in 12 games in 05, registering 30 tackles and one tackle for loss with one pass
breakup. Started all 13 games at weak-side linebacker in the Cougars 3-4 front in 06, compiling 70-8 and three sacks with six pass breakups.
Started all 13 games at WLB spot in 07, totaling 91-1112-4 with one forced fumble, one
recovered fumble and three interceptions.
Positives: Has a solid frame with the potential to get bigger. Is athletic. Gives great effort
and plays to the whistle. Good strength and
agility. Is alert in zone coverage and reacts to
the thrown ball. Secure wrap tackler. Has football intelligence. Great work ethic. Solid character. Has a passion for the game. Does everything he can to improve. Solid special-teams
contributor and overall production.
Negatives: Lacks take-on strength. Will
overpursue and struggles to break down in
space. Vulnerable in pass coverage looks a
bit rigid in his movement with an odd gait and
could be exposed in man coverage against athw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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letic tight ends.


Summary: High-effort overachiever who
stood out at the East-West Shrine game and tested well at the Combine. He will fit best on the
weak side in the pros. He could bring versatility
as a backup and work his way into a starting
lineup.

MLB SPENCER

LARSEN

(6-134, 238, 4.93) ARIZONA

Notes: Married with one son. Also lettered in


baseball and track as a prep. Started 7-of-12
games as a true freshman in 2002 at the whip
linebacker spot in Arizonas modified Eagle Flex
system. Tallied 41 tackles, 312 tackles for loss and
two sacks with three pass breakups. Left Arizona
after one year to serve a two-year Mormon mission in Chile. Returned to Arizona in the spring
of 05 but suffered a right anterior cruciate ligament injury that required surgery. Missed the
first two games of the season because of the knee
injury but returned to start 6-of-8 games in which
he played in the 05 season, amassing 51-112-1
with one pass breakup and one fumble recovery.
Returned to full health in 06, starting all 12
games and totaling 89-1012-2 with three pass
breakups, one interception, three forced fumbles
and one fumble recovery. Started all 12 games in
07 at weak-side linebacker, compiling 131-15124 to go with three forced fumbles, four fumbles
recovered and an interception.
Positives: Has good size. Plays with great
effort and intensity. Competitive and gametough. Great effort and energy. Effective blitzer
uses an arm-over swim move. Steps up vs.
elite competition (see USC game). Good play
recognition keys and diagnoses and runs to
the ball. Will chase and pursue. Takes good
angles to the ball and can clear his feet through
traffic. Shows good awareness in coverage. Is
opportunistic and has a knack for creating
turnovers. Very smart. Outstanding worker.
Solid character.
Negatives: Lacks foot speed in coverage and
is not quick or sudden changing direction. Tighthipped and struggles bending and dipping
around blockers. Marginal lateral range can
lose the corner. Not very fluid in space. Plays out
of control and could do a better job of wrapping
as a tackler misses more than he should. Bites
on play-action and misdirection. Mechanical
and loses one-on-one battles in open space.
Average strength at the point and gets stuck on
blocks. Not an explosive or physical striker.
Does not show much burst or acceleration to
track down ballcarriers to the perimeter. Lacks
man-cover skills to carry tight ends down the
field. Gets marginal depth in his drops.
Summary: Will struggle to shake concerns
regarding a lack of speed and athleticism after
clocking above 4.9 in the 40 at the Combine.
Could be destined to be a career backup in the
pros given his limitations in space and coverage,
but not for his lack of effort. He should make a
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

strong contribution on special teams.

MLB J

LEMAN

(6-134, 245, 4.9e) ILLINOIS

Notes: Pastors son. Also lettered in basketball and track as a prep. Redshirted as a true
freshman in 2003. Started the final 5-of-12
games in 04 at strong-side linebacker, outperforming incumbent Anthony Thornhill and logging 56 tackles, three tackles for loss and 112
sacks. Remained at the Sam spot for all 11
starts in 05 and posted 67-512-0 with adding two
forced fumbles. Moved inside and started all 12
games in 06, amassing 152-19-4 with four pass
breakups and two forced fumbles. Ranked first
in the conference and third nationally in tackles,
highlighted by a 19-312-1 performance against
then-No. 1 Ohio State. Did not practice in the
spring of 07 after having arthroscopic surgery
on his left ankle. Started all 13 games in the fall,
finishing with 132-1012-212 to go with a forced
fumble and an interception. Had arthroscopic
surgery on his left ankle in February and will not
be able to work out until following the draft.
Positives: Good size and instincts. Plays
smart and could line up the defense. Always
around the ball. Excellent career production.
Can key and diagnose is patient and plays the
cut-back with discipline. Is quick to recognize
screens developing and flows to the ball. Reliable, drag-down tackler. Excellent work habits.
Great competitor. Vocal team leader. Versatile
and has lined up inside and outside. Has been
very durable.
Negatives: Most of his production comes 4-5
yards downfield, and he is not a downhill force.
Marginal athlete. Lacks agility, foot speed and
lateral range. Does not have the quickness to
recover when he gets out of position. Has a slender base and minimal lower-body bulk. Doesnt
play strong or shed blockers well. Not an explosive tackler. Gets swallowed up by blockers at
the point of attack and stonewalled when he hits
the hole. Lacks the quickness to stick with backs
and tight ends in coverage.
Summary: Did not compete in pre-draft activities (East-West Shrine game, Scouting Combine, pro day) following surgery in early February for a right ankle injury and is expected to
miss several months while rehabbing the injury.
He certainly will not be outworked and could
last several years in the league on special teams
but is overmatched for the size and speed of the
pro game. He could make his presence felt in the
locker room and overachieve like he did
throughout college.

MLB CURTIS

LOFTON (Junior)

(6-0, 246, 4.83) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Also played fullback as a prep in Oklahoma, where he helped his high school team win
the state championship in 2003. Parade first-team
All-American in 04. Played in 11 games in 05,
mostly on special teams with spot duty at middle

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ers to engulf him too easily. Too naive and could
be blinded by the bright lights of a big city.
Summary: Clocked slower than expected at
the Combine, and durability issues could affect
his draft status. However, he has great competitive speed, reads and reacts quickly and plays
faster than he times. He personifies what it
means to be a football player not an athlete in
pads and simply gets the job done. He could
step in from Day One and make an impact.

ILB MARC

MAGRO

SPORTPICS

(6-158, 239, 4.85e) WEST VIRGINIA

Curtis Lofton

l OKLAHOMA

linebacker. Finished with three tackles and one


tackle for loss. Started 4-of-13 games in 06, tallying 37-412 along with one forced fumble and
one fumble recovery in the Fiesta Bowl. Ranked
second on the team with 10 special-teams tackles.
Started all 14 games in 07 at strong-side (10) and
middle (four) linebacker, finishing with 157-1012
and one sack plus four forced fumbles, one fumble recovered, five pass breakups and three interceptions. Has sickle cell trait disease and needed
to take IVs at halftime of games.
Positives: Plays faster than timed speed. Has
a very compact, square-cut build. Flies around
with reckless abandon. Plays downhill and fills
gaps fast. Strong, drive-through tackler. Has
good instincts and a knack for being around the
ball. Plays with intensity and elevates the play of
his teammates. Very competitive. Plays with
good pad level and leverage. Keeps his shoulders
squared, shuffles down the line and drives hard
to the ball. Hits on the rise with good coil in his
legs. Very reliable open-field tackler. Has a nose
for the football and sniffs out the run exceptionally well. Sifts through traffic. Takes great
angles. Shows awareness in zone coverage and
plays alert. Can run with backs. Very productive
and makes plays all over the field. Brings special-teams coverage value.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height. Is tight-hipped
and will veer rather than sink his hips to change
direction. Lacks great acceleration and top-end
speed and can be late to transition in lateral chase
pursuit. Marginal blitzer does not use his
hands well, exposes his chest and allows block-

Notes: Hometown product from Morgantown,


W.V. was a first-team all-state linebacker as a
senior. Also played baseball as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 12 games in 04 as a
backup middle linebacker and on every specialteams unit. Totaled 32 tackles. Again backed up
the MLB spot in 05, starting 1-of-12 games and
finishing with 41 tackles, six tackles for loss and
three sacks. Forced two fumbles and recovered a
Georgia fumble in the Sugar Bowl. Played in all
13 games in 06 as a co-starter at MLB spot but
didnt have any starts. Tallied 39-2-0 with five
pass breakups. Missed spring drills in 07 while
recovering from knee surgery. Started all 13
games at inside linebacker in 07, registering 8312-8 with two forced fumbles, one fumble
recovery and one pass breakup.
Positives: Good bulk and bulk strength. Plays
on his toes. Very tough and will step up to take
on and fill. Good play recognition and instincts.
Plays faster than he times. Good motor, effort
and hustle. Can rush off the edge. Is effective
blitzing and in traffic uses his hands well to
stave off blockers and shows strength engaging
and popping off. Solid wrap-up tackler. Good
football temperament. Shows some thump as a
hitter. Has terrific intangibles outstanding
work ethic. Plays through injury.
Negatives: Injury history must be evaluated
following multiple knee surgeries. Marginal athlete with limited agility and speed to get to the
perimeter. Too stiff and tightly wound. Struggles
to flip his hips and play in space. Lacks closing
speed, especially off the edge. Not an explosive
tackler. Limited in coverage and might have to
leave the game on passing downs.
Summary: Wont stand out for his measurables but comes to work every day with the
intention of getting better and winning football
games. He lacks the sideline-to-sideline speed to
chase the run but uses his hands well to fend off
blocks and could be protected as an inside
backer in a 3-4 scheme. Compares most closely
to Giants MLB Chase Blackburn, who was
undrafted.

WLB DURELL

MAPP

(6-078, 227, 4.74) NORTH CAROLINA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Walked on and played 10-of-12 games as a true
freshman in 2004, securing six tackles. Was
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awarded a scholarship in 05 and started the final
6-of-11 games at middle linebacker as an injury
replacement, logging 46 tackles, 112 tackles for
loss and one sack with two forced fumbles. In
06, underwent offseason shoulder surgery but
started 7-of-12 games at weak-side linebacker,
missing the season opener against Rutgers with
a sprained knee, and amassed 87-4-0 on the season. Started all 12 games in 07 at the WLB spot,
totaling 132-7-3 with one interception, one
forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Left
positional drill workouts at the Combine after
cramping.
Positives: Plays squared to the line with good
discipline and fits where he is supposed to.
Above-average speed. Plays under control and is
a solid tackler. Runs to the ball and gives good
effort. Makes a lot of plays. Great production.
Negatives: Undersized. Could do a better job
of using his hands to disengage. Not an overly
strong or explosive tackler. Can get caught in
traffic and stuck on blocks. Is tight in the hips
and not very athletic to move in reverse and fall
back into coverage. Average coverage instincts.
Not a great practice player and needs to take
conditioning more seriously.
Summary: Emerged as a tackling machine as
a senior, when he was protected and free to roam
to the ball in Butch Davis defense. Would be
best as a weak-side backer in a traditional 4-3
defense featuring big bodies in the middle, such
as those of the Jaguars, Giants or Panthers.

speed to get to the outside and has good movement skills. Filters through traffic and runs to the
ball. Will step up to take on the lead. Can propel
his body and hit with some thump. Versatile and
has played inside and outside. Very good production.
Negatives: Has a thin lower body. Instincts are
off. Shows no burst in pursuit and can lose the
corner. Does not play with core strength gets
knocked off balance by minimal contact. Consistently bites on play-action and gets fooled by
misdirection. Too straight-linish. Susceptible in
pass coverage and often is taken out in nickel situations. Drag-down tackler who always looks to
tackle low. Does not give great effort in backside
pursuit. Too often gets walled off and sealed and
is late to get off blocks. Overpursues, takes bad
angles, comes underneath blocks and opens up
cut-back lanes. Tight-hipped. Can be sidestepped
and juked in the open field. Marginal blitzer
struggles to dip, bend and take an edge. Limited
range in coverage. Has had multiple knee
injuries. Character needs to be evaluated.
Summary: Ran well in a straight line at the
Combine but does not play up to his speed. He
lacks the take-on strength to excel in the middle
and looked most comfortable on the weak side in
the Outback Bowl vs. Wisconsin. Played his best
late in the year when he began to recover fully
from his surgically repaired knee injury.

MLB-DE JAMEEL

McCLAIN

(6-034, 249, 4.79) SYRACUSE

WLB JEROD

MAYO (Junior)

LINEBACKERS

(6-114, 242, 4.58) TENNESSEE

Notes: Three-year starter at both LB and RB


positions as a prep in Virginia. Redshirted in
2004. Was arrested in April 05 and charged with
felony aggravated assault charge after being
accused of hitting a UT student in a fight that
broke out at a party on campus. Denied involvement in the incident and was supported adamantly by head coach Phillip Fulmer. The charges
against Mayo were dropped in August 05 after
the witness who claimed to see Mayo hit the student failed to show in court. Played in six games
in 05, starting one at weak-side linebacker, and
made 13 tackles. Missed the Mississippi game
with a knee injury, returned for two games, then
missed the final four games with the knee injury.
Started 11-of-12 games in which he played in
06, finishing with 83 tackles, 1212 tackles for
loss and five sacks with one fumble recovery and
one pass breakup. Left the Vanderbilt game late
in the season with a knee injury and returned in a
reserve role for the Outback Bowl. Started all 14
games in 07 at middle (13) and weak-side (one)
linebacker, tallying 140-812-112 with one forced
fumble, three pass breakups and one interception. Lined up at his more natural weak-side
position for the bowl game. Did not lift at the
Combine because of a left pectoral strain.
Positives: Has a solid build with good upperbody strength. Plays with power. Shows good
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Saw action in 11 games at
linebacker in 04 and recorded 11 tackles with
one fumble recovery. Played in 10-of-11 games
in 05, tallying 20 tackles, one tackle for loss and
one sack. Moved to defensive end in 06 and
started all 12 games, amassing 69-1412-912 with
one forced fumble. Started all 12 games in 07 at
defensive end (10) and linebacker (two), registering 77-6-112 with four passes broken up, two
forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one
interception.
Positives: Productive edge rusher and standup linebacker. Shows a good first step and solid
take-on strength. Provides good effort and plays
to the whistle. Keeps working to come free. Uses
his hands to rip off blockers and has the strength
to disengage. Flashes some explosiveness in his
hands. Plays physical and tackles with force.
Good instincts. Plays with a low pad level and
can power into the backfield.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height. Undersized as
a defensive end and can be controlled at the
point. Does not show the suddenness to flip his
hips and quickly change direction. Lumbers in
pursuit and lacks the burst to chase laterally. Has
heavy feet and can be overmatched in the open
field. Takes poor angles and does not account for
his help.
Summary: Has lined up at Mike linebacker
at times but more often than not was aligned in a

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three-point stance and came off the edge.
Flashed surprising pass-rush ability off the edge,
but he lacks the body length, first-step quickness
and edge speed to play with his hand down at the
next level. His best chance will come inside in a
3-4 defense where he could work between the
tackles. A solid football player.

ILB BEN

MOFFITT

(6-078, 234, 4.85e) SOUTH FLORIDA

Notes: Married with two children. Missed


time as a high school junior while considering a
full-time commitment to the ministry. Returned
to play his final two seasons as a prep and also
lettered in weightlifting, breaking the state 238pound class record in the clean-and-jerk with a
lift of 330 pounds. Redshirted and won the
Defensive Golden Bull Award as the top scoutteam player in 2003. Started the final 5-of-11
games at strong-side linebacker in 04 and
notched 23 tackles and three tackles for loss.
Started all 12 games at middle linebacker in 05,
racking up 96-15 with 212 sacks and four forced
fumbles. Started all 13 games in 06, amassing
112-11-4 and two fumble recoveries. Started all
13 games in 07, totaling 104-12-0 with two
fumble recoveries, five pass breakups and four
interceptions one of which was returned for a
touchdown against West Virginia. Did not run at
the Combine because of a right hamstring strain.
Positives: Solid build. Shows good instincts
and will hit the hole fast when he sees it and get
downhill. Plays hard. Solid career production.
Negatives: Lacks great speed and agility.
Struggles to bend and redirect in space. Can be
negated by the fullback vs. the run. Lacks functional play strength. Lacks the speed to chase
laterally and can lose the corner. Struggles to
clear his feet through traffic. Does not use his
hands well and gets wired too much to blocks.
Drag-down tackler. Limited agility and fluidity
to flip his hips and get depth in coverage. Struggles to turn the corner as a blitzer.
Summary: Productive, try-hard, 312-year
starter who could compete for a roster spot as a
true Mike linebacker and contribute on special
teams.

ILB DARREN

MUSTIN

(6-158, 237, 4.85e) ALABAMA

Notes: Has 13 brothers and sisters. Lettered in


football, basketball and track as a prep in Tennessee. Attended Middle Tennessee State and
played in 11 games as a true freshman, mostly
on special teams, finishing with six tackles.
Played in eight games in 04, totaling 19 tackles
and 112 tackles for loss. Sat out the 05 season
after transferring to Alabama. Played in 10
games in 06 and finished with eight tackles.
Started all 12 games in which he played in 07,
tallying 80-812 and one sack along with three
pass breakups and two interceptions. Missed the
Georgia game after suffering a stinger in the win
over Arkansas. Named one of three team cap-

tains for the 07 season.


Positives: Has good size and the strength to
take on blocks. Will sacrifice his body. Shows
some agility and awareness sifting through traffic and keeping his feet. Good competitor. Has a
passion for the game and takes it seriously.
Respected leader.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter. Lacks
great lateral range and does not make a lot of
tackles outside the box. Is tightly wound and
does not appear natural moving in reverse.
Summary: Quietly has flown under the radar
but emerged in Nick Sabans defense as a senior
and put himself on the map. Showed some
thump at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game.
He could bring some versatility as a strong-side
or inside backer in a 3-4 front.

OLB LAMAR

MYLES (Junior)

(6-012, 220, 4.8 E) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Was a four-year starter as a linebacker


and fullback in high school in Florida. Redshirted in 2004. Played in 11 games in 05, starting
one, and finished with 23 tackles, 112 tackles for
loss, one forced fumble and one pass breakup.
Appeared in 13 games in 06, with four starts
(one at the MLB spot), and tallied 45-4 and two
sacks with three forced fumbles and one fumble
recovery. Started all 12 games in 07 at middle
linebacker, recording 128-8-2 with three forced
fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Is fairly instinctive and runs to the
ball. Can get skinny and squeeze through holes
at the line of scrimmage and make plays in the
backfield. Moves fluidly and does a nice job of
filtering through traffic. Shows some pop on
contact and will hit on the rise. Shows good spatial awareness to keep his feet in pursuit. Times
up blitzes very well. Good weight-room
strength.
Negatives: Very undersized. Too often bites
on play-action takes himself out of position
and opens up the middle of the field. Does not
take good angles and gets walled off. Can be
physically overwhelmed. Tightly wound. Possesses marginal coverage skills. Does not show
great top-end speed to win foot races to the sideline.
Summary: A tackling machine who played
beyond his physical limitations in college but he
would have been best-served staying in school
for another year. Projects to the weak side in the
pros, where he could slip and avoid blocks and
clean up the action funneled his way. He must
continue to develop physically and add bulk but
could stand out on special teams.

WLB STEVE

OCTAVIEN

(5-1158, 238, 4.73) NEBRASKA

Notes: Won the Florida state discus title as a


high school junior and placed second as a senior
with a personal-best throw of 193 feet 7 inches.
Shoulder has sublexed since high school. Signed
with Illinois out of high school but enrolled at
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Harper College (Ill.) in 2003-04, recording 124
tackles and 15 tackles for loss as a freshman.
Also ran the second leg of the schools national
champion 4x100-meter relay team and won the
discus title with a throw of 164 feet 7 inches as
a sophomore. Transferred to Nebraska in 05 and
started at weak-side linebacker in the season
opener against Maine, logging four tackles and
212 tackles for loss before breaking his leg in the
first quarter and tearing a ligament. Underwent
an appendectomy during fall camp in 06 and
returned to start 1-of-9 games in which he
played, missing five contests with a lingering
hamstring injury. Finished with 32-4 and one
sack. Played in all 12 games in 07, starting nine
six on the weak side and three on the strong
side and totaled 92-15-2 plus three pass
breakups. Injured his left foot during positional
drills at the Combine.
Positives: Hits with power. Good strength and
explosion. Shows good chase speed. Gets downhill and drives through contact. Plays physically.
Brings emotion to the field.
Negatives: Durability is a major concern
given history of injuries. Has always struggled
to stay healthy. Too tight-hipped. Not fluid in
coverage. Could struggle to carry tight ends and
can be outmatched by size. Could take some
time to digest a complex playbook. Not a great
worker.
Summary: A short, compactly built, explosive
hitter who has earned a reputation as a china doll
that cracks much too easily. He will be removed
from some draft boards for durability concerns.
He flashes strength and explosion when healthy.

SLB KELLY

POPPINGA

(6-112, 239, 4.75e) BRIGHAM YOUNG

Notes: Brother, Brady, currently plays for the


Green Bay Packers. Excelled in football, basketball and track as a prep, winning a state championship in the discus. Sat out for three years following high school. Enrolled at Utah State in
2003 and saw action in eight games as a backup
linebacker and on special teams, recording five
tackles and one tackle for loss with one fumble
recovery. Missed four games that season with a
separated shoulder. Started all 11 games in 04,
registering 61-5 and one sack. Transferred to
BYU in 05 and redshirted that season. Played in
all 13 games in 06, starting two on the strong
side and notching 36-312-2 with three pass
breakups and two interceptions. Started all 13
games in 07, totaling 113-712-0. He also forced
a fumble, broke up five passes and secured an
interception.
Positives: Very active and makes plays all
over the field. Shows enough speed to close to
the ball. Good second effort in pursuit. Has a
passion for the game. Smart and dependable.
Vocal leader. Football is important to him. Contributes on nearly every special-teams unit. Has
NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Not tough or physical and gets velw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

croed to blocks. Too tight in the hips and is not


sudden changing direction. Not fluid in coverage. Can be late to react to what he sees. Could
do a better job of using his hands to come free.
Not a natural athlete. Overaged and will be a 26year-old rookie.
Summary: A self-made overachiever with the
toughness, work habits and desire to make it on
special teams and fight for playing time.

WLB MARCUS

RICHARDSON

(6-018, 228, 4.53) TROY

Notes: Also lettered in track and field as a


prep, competing in the 100 meters (10.8) and
triple jump (44 feet). Redshirted in 2003. Saw
limited action in seven games in 04 and registered five tackles. Started all 11 games in 05 at
strong-side linebacker, tallying 59 tackles and
seven tackles for loss with five pass breakups.
Started 11-of-13 games in 06, missing two
early-season contests with a broken collarbone
sustained against Georgia Tech. Finished with
40-412 and 112 sacks. Started all 12 games at
weak-side linebacker in 07, tallying 60-512-2.
He also forced a fumble, recovered one and
hauled in an interception.
Positives: Natural athlete. Good movement
skills. Good lateral quickness. Is fluid changing
direction and can make plays to the sideline. Has
long arms and some pop in his punch to keep
defenders off his body. Shows the movement
skills to run with receivers and can open up his
stride and go. Moves well in reverse.
Negatives: Lacks bulk and bulk strength.
Instincts are off and can be late to react to movement. Can be knocked around and controlled
when locked up in tight quarters. Overpursues
and takes himself out of plays. Lunges too much
and misses tackles. Could struggle to stay
healthy given his lack of size.
Summary: He would fit best in a fast-flowing
scheme used by a team such as the Colts or
Eagles and could bring value on special teams
and as a nickel linebacker.

WLB KEITH

RIVERS

(6-214, 241, 4.7e) USC

Notes: Named Parade All-American as a


prep. Appeared in all 13 games at weak-side
linebacker as a true freshman in 2004 and
notched 25 tackles and three tackles for loss
with one pass breakup and one interception.
Started 11-of-13 games at weak-side linebacker
in 05, missing two contests with a hamstring
strain, and totaled 52-3 and one sack with one
interception and a pair of fumble recoveries.
Started all 13 games in 06, registering 85-712-2
with two pass breakups, three forced fumbles
and one fumble recovery. Started all 12 games in
which he played in 07, missing the Arizona
State game with a sprained left ankle suffered at
California. Totaled 78-5-0 with four pass
breakups, a team-high three fumble recoveries
and one forced fumble. Did not work out at the

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Hardworking. Solid character. Great intangibles. Has a passion for the game. Vocal team
leader. Very good on special teams.
Negatives: Is a bit tight, and his stiffness
shows up when he tries to transition. Not smooth
changing direction. Plays a bit too recklessly,
will overrun the ball and miss some tackles in
space. Lacks great strength at the point and can
be driven back four yards when he gets engulfed.
Takes some questionable angles and opens up
cut-back lanes. Did not have great production.
Summary: Is capable of lining up at all three
LB positions but is most naturally suited to play
on the weak side. He was not at full health as a
senior and played through an ankle injury that
impeded his quickness, but he has the toughness,
football intelligence, leadership ability and work
habits to develop into a very good pro.

Combine after having his right ankle scoped.


Positives: Looks like he has been sculpted
out of granite and had the most impressive
physique of any player at the Senior Bowl.
Good arm length. Has the speed to consistently
reach the perimeter, and once he zeroes in on a
target, he will pop and run through ballcarriers.
Plays downhill and will strike. Flashes big-hitting capability. Instinctive. Very quick to read
screens and draws and attacks downhill with the
proper shoulder. Covers a lot of ground and flies
to the ball. Stays on his feet through traffic.
Solid wrap tackler. Shows great awareness in
coverage and is athletic enough to line up in the
slot. Shows the speed to carry tight ends up the
seam and cover backs. Versatile and has played
all three LB positions. Has lined up with his
hand on the ground and shows some pass-rush
ability. Plays through injuries. Elusive blitzer.

WLB SHANE

SIMMONS

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

(6-118, 226, 4.69) WESTERN WASHINGTON

Keith Rivers

l USC

Notes: Also lettered in baseball as a prep.


Attended Idaho as a true freshman in 2004 and
played in three games at outside linebacker,
recording eight tackles and one tackle for loss.
Left the team in mid-September after his teammate and friend, Eric McMillan, was shot to
death. Transferred to Western Washington in 05
and started 9-of-10 games, posting 66-812 and
five sacks with one interception, four forced
fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Moved
inside and started the first five games in 06 and
totaled 56-7-1 and one forced fumble before suffering a season-ending right shoulder stinger.
Started all 10 games in 07 and registered 125-62 with two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery
and two pass breakups.
Positives: Instinctive. Good football intelligence. Reads his keys and is quick to diagnose
plays. Takes sharp angles to slip underneath
blockers. Flows fast to the ball. Can get to the
sideline and chase down ballcarriers. Solid wrap
tackler. Tough and competitive. Outstanding
work habits. Great all-around character. Lined
up on special teams early in career and shows
the athletic ability and instincts to be effective
covering kicks.
Negatives: Lacks size and bulk strength and
does not have a frame to support much growth.
Not strong pressing off blocks and does not play
physical. Does not show much awareness in
zone coverage and is not quick to break on the
ball. Was limited by a shoulder injury as a junior.
Summary: A high-motor, run-around, weakside linebacker whose biggest contribution
could come on special teams. His durability
could be an issue.

MLB CHRISTIAN

TAYLOR

(5-1178, 227, 4.75e) UCLA

Notes: Also lettered in volleyball and basketball as a prep. Attended the Air Force Academy
as a walk-on and redshirted in 2003. Transferred
to UCLA in 04 and sat out the season to comw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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ply with NCAA transfer rules but earned the
Charles Pike Memorial Award as the best scoutteam player. Earned a scholarship in 05 and
started 1-of-12 games in a rotation at inside linebacker, totaling 43 tackles and one tackle for
loss. Played in all 13 games, starting 12, at middle linebacker in 06, playing sparingly against
Oregon because of a sprained ankle and piled up
83-1312 and 412 sacks. Started all 12 games in
which he played in 07 and finished with 801212-2 plus one forced fumble, two fumble
recoveries and three pass breakups. Suffered a
concussion vs. California and missed the Washington State game. Team captain.
Positives: Plays with intensity and fights to
get to the ball. Very competitive. Works hard and
does everything he can to improve. Reacts to
balls thrown in front of him. Plays smart. Vocal
team leader.
Negatives: Very undersized and short-armed
for the inside and lacks the burst and lateral
agility to get to the perimeter. Not overly physical and gets stuck on too many blocks. Lacks
strength and pop in his punch to stack and shed.
Does not have great balance or body control and
struggles the farther he has to go. Too tightly
wound. Struggles to break down and tackle in
space. Near-liability in coverage does not get
much depth. Thinks he is better than he is.
Summary: Too small and slow-footed to compete for more than a job on special teams, where
his intensity could help him earn a role.

WLB DAVID

VOBORA

LINEBACKERS

(6-114, 236, 4.77) IDAHO

Notes: Lined up at QB, WR, TE, LB and S


positions in high school. Started 3-of-12 games
as a true freshman in 2004, logging 17 tackles as
a reserve. In 05, started 6-of-11 games and posted 43 tackles and six tackles for loss. Emerged
to start all 12 games in 06, totaling 134-1512-2
and adding four pass breakups and two forced
fumbles. Started all 12 games at the Will spot
in 07, recording 148-612-1. He also picked off
one pass, forced one fumble and recovered one
fumble.
Positives: Good instincts. Flows fast to the
ball. Quick and agile. Good football intelligence.
Takes on blockers with the proper shoulder and
gets good fits in the defense. Has a sixth sense
for the ball and shows up all over the field. Has
a knack for slipping blockers and takes good
angles. Flashes strength at the point. Secure
tackler. Outstanding worker with a passion for
the game. Plays on every special team. Excellent
production. Great intangibles. Very durable.
Negatives: Has not faced great competition.
Not strong in the upper body. Lacks bulk and can
be outmuscled by bigger blockers. Shows some
tightness in his hips and does not have great
speed. Not very fluid in coverage. Weight has
tended to fluctuate.
Summary: Underrated weak-side linebacker
with the toughness, competitive and intelligence
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

to make it. He will become a staple on special


teams and could battle for a starting job in a 4-3
pressure defense where he is protected.

WLB NICK

WATKINS

(6-012, 223, 4.79) CLEMSON

Notes: His family was hit hard by Hurricane


Katrina. Redshirted in 2003. Played in all 11
games as a reserve linebacker in 04, compiling
53 tackles and seven tackles for loss with 10
tackles coming from special teams. Started all
12 games in 05, recording 99-5 and one sack
with one pass breakup, one interception and one
forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 06, registering 113-7-1 to go with four pass breakups,
three interceptions and three forced fumbles.
Started 11-of-12 games in which he played in
07 at weak-side linebacker, but did not start vs.
Central Michigan due to academics. Notched
118-3-1 with two forced fumbles, two fumble
recoveries and three pass breakups. Was ruled
academically ineligible for the Chick-fil-A
Bowl.
Positives: Very active and makes plays all
over the field. Effectively slips blocks and will
come downhill and attack. Plays sideline to sideline and has good playing range.
Negatives: Too undisciplined. Does not like to
work. Lacks bulk strength and upper-body
strength bench-pressed 225 pounds only 17
times at the Combine. Does not play strong. Too
straight-linish and not sudden changing direction.
Summary: If he can bulk up, commit himself
to the weight room and take the game more seriously, he has a chance to make it. If he continues
to skate by cutting corners and does not figure
out what it means to work, he will fall by the
wayside and have to live with the memory of
being a good college player. His lack of focus is
concerning.

WLB PHILIP

WHEELER

(6-178, 248, 4.81) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Saw immediate action in 2003 as a


190-pound true freshman, contributing six tackles in reserve from defensive end. Moved to
strong-side linebacker and redshirted in 04.
Started 12-of-13 games in 05 at the SLB spot,
missing a start against Utah because the Yellow
Jackets opened in a nickel defense. Finished
with 64-1112-4 and tied for the team lead with
four interceptions. In 06, moved inside and
started all 14 games at middle linebacker, replacing New York Giants 2006 third-round pick Gerris Wilkinson, and recorded 89-1412-9 with two
forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and five
pass breakups. Started all 13 games in 07,
rarely coming off the field. Totaled 88-812-512
with two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Solid build. Good natural athlete.
Shows good awareness in pass defense and has
enough speed to run with receivers. Can drop his

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hips and change direction. Solid hitter. Has a
knack for hitting gaps as a blitzer.
Negatives: Not physical and does not like to
take on blocks. Plays with too much finesse.
Shows some tightness in his hips. Does not
break down in space and misses tackles in the
open field. Marginal work ethic. Lacks passion
for the game and relies too much on his natural
ability. Loses separation in coverage. Needs to
be lined up at times. Not a vocal leader. Thinks
he is better than he is and needs to learn what it
means to work. Regressed from his junior season to his senior season and too often appeared
to short-circuit with play-action, misdirection
and crossers.
Summary: Has been a productive player but
has never evolved into the type of player he
could be. Not tough enough to stay inside and
projects best to the weak side in the pros. If the
light ever comes on, he could be a good pro, but
he has bust potential.

SLB THOMAS

WILLIAMS

(6-078, 238, 4.89) USC

Notes: Parade All-American as a senior linebacker and fullback in high school in California.
Also played baseball. Redshirted in 2003.
Appeared in all 13 games in 04, mostly on special teams and as a backup at strong-side linebacker. Finished with 14 tackles and two tackles
for loss. Started 8-of-10 games in which he
played in 05, six at the SLB spot and two at
inside backer. Sprained his left kneecap at California and missed the final three games. Totaled
29-4 and one sack plus one forced fumble, three
pass breakups and one interception. Missed
some of 06 spring drills while recuperating
from his knee injury, then had surgery for an
abdominal strain prior to spring practice. Started
the 06 season as a utility linebacker (playing all
three positions), then moved to fullback in midseason and also was a key special-teams contributor. Appeared in all 13 games in 06, with two
starts, making 18-112-1 plus one forced fumble
and one interception. Started 4-of-13 games in
07 as an injury replacement at strong-side
(three) and middle (one) linebacker. Finished
with 56-5-0 with two forced fumbles, five pass
breakups and one interception. Won USCs Most
Inspirational Player Award.
Positives: Good athlete. Shows the strength to
jam tight ends and hold his ground at the line.
Does a nice job of dropping into pass coverage
and shows good awareness. Plays fast. Very versatile and has played all three LB positions plus
fullback.
Negatives: Lacks an extra gear. Limited experience. Has never been a full-time starter.
Doesnt have great instincts. Lacks great bulk
strength.
Summary: Played well over a four-game
stretch in 07 while injuries sidelined Brian
Cushing at strong-side linebacker and Rey
Maualuga in the middle. However, Williams

lack of acceleration and top-end speed was more


than evident at the Combine, as he posted pedestrian 4.9-second 40 times. Sat behind three
potential first-round picks his last two seasons,
but like former USC QB Matt Cassel, also a
career reserve, Williams possesses the intelligence and intangibles to fill a role at the next
level. He likely is a career special-teamer who
could also get a look at fullback.

WLB WESLEY

WOODYARD

(6-038, 227, 4.53) KENTUCKY

Notes: Also lettered in track, finishing second


in the state 4x100-meter relay as a high school
sophomore. Started 5-of-10 games in which he
played at inside linebacker as a true freshman in
2004 after switching over from safety at midseason. Totaled 34 tackles and one tackle for loss
and was named the special-teams Player of the
Year by the coaching staff despite missing the
season finale with a torn left ankle ligament that
required postseason surgery. Started all 11
games at weak-side linebacker in 05, registering 100-7 and two sacks with five pass breakups,
one interception and four fumble recoveries.
Notched 18-2-0 and one fumble recovery in the
season finale against Tennessee. Started all 13
games in 06, compiling 122-912-2 with one
interception, two fumble recoveries and four
forced fumbles. Fractured his left hand and
underwent surgery in July 07. Had the cast
removed in late August and played the season
with a small pad on his surgically repaired hand.
Started all 13 games at weak-side linebacker.
Totaled 139-812-212 with three forced fumbles,
one fumble recovery and five pass breakups. Did
not do the bench press at the Combine because
of a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Very productive. Has very long
arms (3458 inches). Flashes impressive top-end
speed and closes fast to the ball. Is instinctive
and reacts quickly to what he sees. Secure tackler. Makes plays all over the field and is very
active. Shows outstanding playing range. Good
work ethic and on-field leadership ability. Great
competitor. Plays smart and understands the
game. Has a great work ethic. Good football
temperament.
Negatives: Is high-hipped and very thinly
built in the lower body. Plays too tall and very
stiff and struggles sinking his hips. Shows some
tightness in his back and does not play with great
bend. Plays flat-footed at times. Cannot flip his
hips and change direction. Does not have a
frame to get much bigger. Not a physical, drivethrough tackler. Marginal coverage defender.
Summary: He has continued a strong postseason climb following a very productive four-year
career in the Southeastern Conference, gradually bulking up from the time of the Senior Bowl
to the Combine and not sacrificing speed. He
could contribute on special teams immediately
and develop into a solid pro. He would be best in
a pressure Tampa-2 defensive scheme.
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COURTESY OF TROY

DEFENSIVE BACKS
PFWS TOP

10

1. LEODIS McKELVIN
2. D. Rodgers-Cromartie
3. Mike Jenkins
4. Aqib Talib
5. Patrick Lee
6. Reggie Smith
7. Kenny Phillips
8. DaJuan Morgan
9. Tyvon Branch
10. Brandon Flowers
FS HUSAIN

ABDULLAH

DEFENSIVE BACKS

(5-1178, 204, 4.68) WASHINGTON STATE

Notes: Married with a son. Brother, Hamza,


also lettered for the Cougars and plays for the
Denver Broncos. Husain redshirted in 2003 at
cornerback. Moved to safety in 04 and played
in 11 games, primarily on special teams.
Recorded 26 tackles, one pass breakup and one
interception, adding one forced fumble and two
fumble recoveries. Started 9-of-10 games in
which he played in 05, missing the Idaho contest with a sprained left ankle, and amassed 546-2 with one forced fumble. Started all 12 games
in 06, tallying 66-4-3 with one forced fumble.
Voted team captain in 07. Started all 12 games,
notching 93-10-4 with one forced fumble and
one blocked kick. Did not run shuttles at Combine because of groin injury.
Positives: Has good size. Plays the ball well
downfield and shows nice body control to adjust
to it. Has NFL bloodlines. Very disciplined.
Strong character. Works hard and takes the game
seriously.
Negatives: Average instincts. Takes some
questionable angles. Lacks range to get over the
top. Does not come out of his breaks cleanly.
Struggles to tackle in space. Average play speed.
Not quick or sudden out of his pedal. Shows no
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

awareness with his back to the ball. Religion


requires fasting and could affect strength and
conditioning took IVs on game days to fuel
body.
Summary: Has shown improvement every
year and is committed to the game but will have
to make it on special teams to stick on a roster.

SS JAMAR

ADAMS

(6-2, 212, 4.62) MICHIGAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track


and was a member of a nationally ranked chess
team in high school. Appeared in nine games as
a true freshman in 2004 and recorded eight tackles. Started 8-of-12 games at strong safety in
05, tallying 27 tackles and two pass breakups.
Started all 13 games at strong safety in 06 and
compiled 47-7 and one interception. Started all
13 games at strong safety in 07, notching 9210-3. Did not bench at the Combine because of
a right shoulder injury.
Positives: Very good size. Looks the part.
Smart. Supports the run quickly. Drops downhill
fast and is a physical hitter. Makes the secondary
calls. Nice instincts. Times up blitzes well and
shows enough closing burst to get to the ball.
Will run through contact. Good worker.
Negatives: Plays overaggressively and over-

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runs the ball. Struggles to break down in space
and misses too many tackles. Lacks foot speed
and deep range to play over the top. Has very little production on the ball over the course of his
career. Is not smooth transitioning out of breaks.
Does not show great awareness in zone coverage.
Summary: A better hitter than tackler, Adams
needs to learn to more consistently wrap up, but
he is big and strong and could be effective near
the box.

SS DOMINIQUE

BARBER

(6-014, 210, 4.69) MINNESOTA

Notes: Father, Marion Jr., lettered for the


Gophers from 1977-80 and played seven seasons
with the New York Jets (1982-88). Brother, Marion III, played for the Gophers from 2001-04
and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the
fourth round of the 2005 NFL draft. Dominique
also lettered in hockey and baseball as a prep.
Played 9-of-12 games at strong safety as a true
freshman in 2004 and notched four tackles and
one pass breakup. In 05, saw action in all 12
games, securing 13 tackles and blocking a punt.
Started all 13 games at free safety in 06 and registered 74 tackles, eight pass breakups and four
interceptions with two forced fumbles and one
fumble recovery. Also blocked two kicks. Started all 12 games at strong safety in 07, notching
100-8-0 with one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries.
Positives: Very good size. Good football intelligence. Solid run defender gets his feet under
him and plays under control. Plays physical.
Makes the secondary calls and has a good feel
for the game. Has athletic bloodlines. Good production. Solid on special teams.
Negatives: Lacks speed and burst to provide
help over the top. Does not play the ball exceptionally well (four career interceptions, all in his
junior season). Could hit with more thump.
Could struggle digesting NFL schemes. Vulnerable in man coverage stiff in his backpedal
and struggles breaking on the ball.
Summary: Competent two-year starter at both
safety spots who lacks the speed to play centerfield at the next level but tackles well enough to
fit as a reliable in-the-box safety. Could provide
immediate depth and play special teams.

SS JOSH

BARRETT

(6-134, 223, 4.36) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: Cousin, Jerald Moore, was a thirdround pick of the St. Louis Rams in 1996, playing three seasons there and one with the Saints.
Father, Grieg, played basketball at Nevada. Josh
returned a combined seven kickoffs and punts,
as well as four interceptions, for touchdowns as
a senior in high school. Also lettered in basketball and track. Suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in his first game as a true freshman in
2003. Redshirted and earned the scout team
(defense) effort award. Started 4-of-10 games in
04, totaling 17 tackles, one pass breakup and

one interception with two fumble recoveries.


Started 2-of-12 games in 05, racking up 37-4-1
with three tackles for loss, one sack and one
forced fumble. Named ASUs defensive MVP in
06 after starting all 13 games, tallying 82-6-3
with 712 tackles for loss, one sack and one fumble recovery. Earned the Hard Hat Player
award for his work in the offseason conditioning
program. Team captain. Started 8-of-11 games
in which he played in 07, tallying 38-8-1.
Missed the Arizona game with a right knee
sprain. Was hampered throughout the season by
a strained pectoral muscle and a quad contusion.
Positives: Sensational size-speed ratio. Can
kick it up a notch in pursuit. Really stood out as
a junior, when he played strong vs. the run,
showed awareness vs. the pass and broke to the
ball with a sense of urgency. Linebacker size
with the agility of a free safety can drop into
coverage, flip his hips and change direction.
Smooth strider who moves exceptionally well for
his size. Does a nice job reading the quarterback,
baiting throws and breaking on the football. Can
make every play on the field. Plays effortlessly
and in stretches looks like a one-man show.
Negatives: Turned sour as a senior played
sporadically and was benched early in the year.
Shut it down at times and looked for a way out.
Questionable passion and desire. Turned down
contact, bounced off ballcarriers and generally
played without passion. Not very instinctive.
Needs to play more disciplined. Durability is a
minor concern.
Summary: Wowed at the Scouting Combine
with a blazing 4.37-second 40-yard dash. Rare
physical ability never has been questioned and
effortlessly made all the plays as a junior, seemingly toying with the opposition in a game that
came too easily for him. Floundered as a senior,
however, under new head coach Dennis Erickson and appeared disinterested. Has tremendous
physical ability and could flourish in a system in
which he is turned loose and can roam. Has
enough size to pique some interest as a weakside linebacker.

SS-PR BRIAN

BONNER

(5-1078, 196, 4.66) TEXAS CHRISTIAN

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Redshirted and converted from quarterback to safety in 2003. Appeared in all 11 games
in 04, tallying 28 tackles and two pass breakups
and added one sack and one fumble recovery.
Started 6-of-12 games at strong safety in 05 and
amassed 43-7 and four interceptions with two
sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble
recoveries. Started the final 8-of-13 games in
06, registering 49-6-2 with 912 tackles for loss,
412 sacks and one forced fumble. Also returned
24 punts for 305 yards (12.7-yard average).
Started all 13 games in 07, amassing 87-6-1.
Returned punts 41-535 (13.0).
Positives: Good musculature. Fairly instinctive, reads his keys and will support the run.
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Solid hitter. Times up blitzes well. Plays the ball
in front of him. Tough. Has a passion for the
game. Works very hard and takes the game seriously. Solid character. More quick than fast.
Shows enough quickness and vision to contribute as a punt returner.
Negatives: Is not naturally big. Short-armed
and can be engulfed easily. Struggles the farther
he has to go and range is limited does not
drop a lot into coverage or cover much ground.
Shows little burst to the ball. Average functional
play speed. Not fluid in his movement. Is tight in
the hips and takes choppy steps. Not very aware
in coverage and lacks the foot quickness to carry
tight ends down the field.
Summary: Is almost used like another linebacker and is a very limited athlete that must
play near the box and make it on special teams.

CB ZACKARY

BOWMAN

(6-018, 197, 4.44) NEBRASKA

Notes: Grew up on an Air Force base in


Anchorage, Alaska. Played at New Mexico Military Institute in 2003 and 04. Amassed 18 pass
breakups and four interceptions in 03 and 10
PBUs and six interceptions, including two he
returned for TDs, in 04. Transferred to Nebraska in 05 and started the final 5-of-11 games he
played at boundary corner over incumbent Tierre
Green, recording 27 tackles, 14 pass breakups
and two interceptions. In spring practice in 06,
tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left
knee and sat out the season. Tore the patellar tendon in his right knee in 07 spring practice but
returned to start 4-of-11 games in his final season, notching 29-6-1.
Positives: Very good size and length. Has long
arms, is strong and effective in press coverage.
Can re-route receivers at the line and keep stride
with receivers down the field. Reacts to the
thrown ball in front of him.
Negatives: Durability is a major question. Too
lean and long-limbed and struggles to transition
and change directions easily. Bites hard on double moves and struggles to change gears. Does
not play physically. Soft tackler. Loses separation in man off coverage. Loses the ball with his
back to it and does not show awareness. Has
never been able to stay healthy long enough to
finish a season as a full-time starter.
Summary: Worked out very well at the Combine and showed natural physical traits that
appeared on tape early in his career. However,
never has been able to stay healthy, was beaten
out for the starting job in his final season and
could be a medical liability.

CB-FS-KR TYVON

BRANCH

(5-1134, 204, 4.33) CONNECTICUT

Notes: Named the New York Gatorade Track


Athlete of the Year as a prep after finishing first
in the 100 meters and 200 meters and winning
the 2004 National Indoor Track Championship
in the 60 meters (6.82). Played in all 12 games at
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

cornerback as a true freshman in 04, posting 20


tackles and returning 10 kickoffs for 200 yards
(20.0-yard average). Was arrested in May of 05
after a pellet gun discharged from a car he was
riding in with three teammates and shattered the
window of a passing car in a parking lot, but
charges were later dismissed. Started the final 5of-12 games in 05, replacing junior Ernest
Cole, who was out with a broken arm. Logged
42 tackles, six pass breakups and two interceptions for the season. Started all 12 games in 06
and racked up 79-5-1, adding two forced fumbles and two recoveries. Started all 13 games in
07, notching 89-10-0. Returned kickoffs 27-780
(28.9) with two touchdowns.
Positives: Excellent size. Can flat out fly. Very
good upper-body strength. Uses his hands well
at the line of scrimmage to disrupt timing and reroute receivers. Shows ability to maintain cushion in off-man coverage. Plants and drives on the
ball very well. Does a nice job recognizing
underneath responsibilities and peeling off in
zone coverage. Outstanding closing speed. Can
run, plant and drive on the ball. Is physical vs.
the run. Strong tackler. Provides special-teams
value as a kick returner and gunner. Smart and
makes the secondary calls. Passionate and a student of the game. Durable.
Negatives: Lacks great ball skills has only
three career interceptions and does not make
many plays on the ball. Marginal hands. Too
tight in transition and will give up too much separation in man coverage.
Summary: Blew up the Combine, blazing the
40 at 204 pounds, but is more fast than quick and
ideally still fits as a zone corner or free safety.
Could make an impact immediately on special
teams as a gunner and kick returner and possesses the combination of size, speed and smarts
to consider on the back half. Overall versatility
will drive up his value.

SS CORNELIUS PIG

BROWN

(5-11, 197, 4.59) MISSOURI

Notes: Two-time first-team all-state selection


at Cook High School in Adel, Ga. Also earned
three letters in basketball. Played two years at
Reedley (Calif.) College, earning all-state and
all-conference honors as a sophomore at safety.
Played 12 games at free safety for Missouri in
06, starting once and notching 40-1-0. Bothered
by a sprained ankle at the end of the season.
Named co-captain prior to senior season. Started
all eight games in which he played in 07 at
strong safety, amassing 70-7-3. Season was cut
short when he ruptured an Achilles tendon vs.
Iowa State, forcing him to miss the final six
games. Recovered two fumbles, including one
he returned 100 yards for a touchdown, and
made the game-clinching interception in the season opener vs. Illinois.
Positives: Very active. Strong tackler. Will hit
ballcarriers in the mouth. Shows big-play ability
and performed well in the clutch (see game-

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clinching interception vs. Illinois). Very good
production. Emotional leader. Has a passion for
the game. Has return experience. Really stood out
vs. Texas Tech, making plays all over the field.
Negatives: Lacks bulk. Only a one-year
starter. Durability is a consideration was
slowed by an ankle injury during the season and
is coming off a career-threatening type of injury.
Summary: Injury concerns are very valid and
could seriously affect draft status. However,
Brown is a good football player who is effective
in the box. Could be worth a late-round gamble
in hopes that he could return to form but might
have to begin the season on the PUP list.

SS IKE

BROWN

(5-1014, 205, 4.5e) CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Notes: Brother, Jacob, played for CMU and


had a short stint with the Oakland Raiders.
Uncle, Monty, played four seasons for the Buffalo Bills (1993-95) and Detroit Lions (96). Ike
also lettered in track in high school. Appeared in
every game as a true freshman on special teams
in 2003, making seven tackles and also rushing
six times for 22 yards in one game as a reserve
running back. Moved to free safety prior to the
04 season and started all 11 games, registering
73 tackles and two tackles for loss with one
forced fumble. Moved to drop linebacker in
05 and started all 11 games, tallying 73-1112 and
three sacks with one forced fumble. Was granted
a medical redshirt for the 06 season after having
surgery on the meniscus and anterior cruciate
ligament in his right knee after he was injured in
the second game of the season vs. Michigan.
Started all 14 games at strong-side linebacker in
07, notching 106 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 212
sacks and one forced fumble.
Positives: Good functional strength. Strong
tackler. Looks the part. Very good worker. Plays
smart and has a nose for the ball. Tough and
competitive. Did everything he could to rehabilitate from injury and is very disciplined. Has a
frame to add bulk and get stronger. Has NFL
bloodlines.
Negatives: Has a very spotted injury history
with multiple knee surgeries. Does not make a
lot of plays on the ball or show awareness in
coverage. Tight-hipped and not smooth changing direction. Limited lower-body strength and
explosion.
Summary: Has lined up as a hybrid linebacker-safety and would be best close to the line,
where he could support the run. Coverage limitations will need to be hidden in scheme.

CB TREY

BROWN

(5-834, 190, 4.55e) UCLA

Notes: Father, Theotis, played running back at


UCLA and also in the NFL for the Kansas City
Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks and St. Louis Cardinals. Trey redshirted in 2003, earning Outstanding Scout Team Player for defense. In 04,
played in all 12 games, starting seven and mak-

ing 46 tackles, four pass breakups and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. Also made five tackles for loss and
returned two kickoffs for 103 yards (51.5-yard
average). Won teams Defensive Rookie of the
Year award. Started all 12 games in 05, totaling
53-10-1, leading the team in PBUs. Started all
13 games in 06, tallying 47-9-4, leading the
team in the latter two categories. Also had a sack
and 212 tackles for loss. Started all 13 games in
07, totaling 62-18-5 with one interception
returned 56 yards for a touchdown. Also made
two fumble recoveries, forced one fumble and
had one sack.
Positives: Good instincts. Understands the
game. Shows good zone awareness and good ball
skills. Packs some punch for his size and will
come up to support the run. Effective manning a
short area and switching off receivers. Is opportunistic. Shows the toughness to support the run
and is a reliable tackler. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Lacks ideal height and is undersized for the position. Lacks great speed and is
not an elite athlete. Does not have great mancoverage skills to carry receivers downfield and
is not very strong.
Summary: Undersized, instinctive zone corner with the ball skills and toughness to overcome his size limitations. A good, little football
player.

SS CALEB

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CAMPBELL

(6-134, 229, 4.59) ARMY

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Started 6-of-11 games at the whip
position as a true freshman in 2004, recording 54
tackles, four tackles for loss and one-half sack,
adding two forced fumbles. Moved to strong
safety in 05 and started all 11 games, compiling
97 tackles, eight pass breakups and five interceptions, highlighted by a 21-tackle effort
against Air Force. Started the first 9-of-12 games
in 06 and tallied 59-3-2 before tearing his right
anterior cruciate ligament against Tulane. Did
not practice in the spring while recovering from
the knee injury. Voted team captain as a senior.
Started 12 games in 07, notching 97-2-0. Suffered a right hamstring injury while running the
40 at the Combine and did not finish workout.
Positives: Very good size and strength. Looks
the part. Hits with some force and plays physical. Gets downhill fast. Improved maturity and
work ethic. Good overall career production as a
four-year starter. Quick healer responded
well from injury.
Negatives: Slightly pigeon-toed. Limited
cover skills. Rounds out of his breaks and is not
quick or sudden changing direction. Plays out of
control and will miss some tackles in space.
Average body control. Takes time to accelerate.
Shows some hip tightness and is not naturally
fluid. Limited man-coverage skills.
Summary: Plays like an added linebacker in
the box and shows the toughness and striking
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ability to contribute in the box. Has some limitations in coverage and best chance could come by
bulking up and transitioning to weak-side linebacker.

CB-FS ANTOINE

CASON

DEFENSIVE BACKS

DEFENSIVE BACKS

(6-014, 191, 4.54) ARIZONA

Notes: Cousins are Ken-Yon Rambo (Cowboys, 2001-02) and Aveion Cason (Rams, Lions,
Cowboys, 2001-07). Father, Wendell, played for
the Atlanta Falcons from 1985-87. Antoine also
lettered in track in high school. Started all 11
games at field cornerback as a true freshman in
2004 and notched 70 tackles, six pass breakups
and four interceptions plus 512 tackles for loss
and three forced fumbles. In 05, started all 11
games and posted 50-5-3 with 212 tackles for
loss. Started all 12 games in 06 and collected
62-7-3 with one interception return for TD.
Joined the track team in the spring of 07. In his
first collegiate meet, he posted a time of 6.54
seconds in the 55-meter dash. Helped post a
team season-best 40.27 in the 4x100. Won the
Jim Thorpe Award as the nations top defensive
back in 07 after notching 71-19-5, returning
two interceptions for touchdowns. Also returned
27 punts for 201 yards (7.4-yard average) with
two TDs. Did not participate in all agility drills
at the Combine because of tightness.
Positives: Uses his hands well at the line and
shows fine strength to press and re-route
receivers. Impressive upper-body strength. Good
zone awareness and understanding of the game.
Great ball skills and hands (15 career interceptions). Plays fast and shows good recovery speed.
Shows good route recognition and coverage
instincts to jump routes stood out vs. Oregon.
Negatives: Average closing speed. Is late to
transition out of his breaks and slow to change
direction. Not very physical tries to back door
and drag tackle in lieu of taking the ball carrier
head on and got trucked against USC and
Washington. Plays too passively and struggles to
get off blocks. Undisciplined in off-man coverage.
Summary: Instinctive, press-zone boundary
corner who lacks desirable long speed. Is quick,
agile and instinctive and could earn a starting
spot in a Tampa-2 scheme. However, he is not
very physical and could struggle transitioning to
the FS spot that some teams have projected him
to playing in the pros.

CB-S SIMEON

CASTILLE

(6-0 38, 195, 4.74) ALABAMA

Notes: Brother, Tim, also played for the Tide,


and father, Jeremiah, was an All-American
(1979-82) for Alabama and played for the Tampa
Bay Buccaneers (1983-86) and Denver Broncos
(1987-88). First-team USA Today All-American
as a prep. Played in 11-of-12 games as a true
freshman in 2004, missing time against Arkansas
with a sprained right medial collateral ligament.
Finished the season with 14 tackles, four pass
breakups and two interceptions along with two
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

tackles for loss and a sack. Started 3-of-11 games


in which he played in 05, missing the Cotton
Bowl because of academic ineligibility. Notched
28-9-2 on the season with four tackles for loss,
two sacks, two forced fumbles and a blocked
punt. Started all 13 games at right cornerback in
06 and totaled 71-6-6 with 412 tackles for loss,
one sack, one forced fumble and three fumble
recoveries. Recorded two picks each vs. Vanderbilt and Tennessee. Also returned three punts for
22 yards (7.3-yard average). Was arrested in midAugust 07 on a disorderly conduct charge for
allegedly shouting, cussing and challenging passengers in a vehicle to fight. As of Nov. 07, was
found guilty of the disorderly conduct charge and
ordered to pay a $150 fine and $300 in court
costs but has appealed the decision, with a court
date scheduled for June. Started all 13 games at
cornerback in the fall, amassing 63-12-2. Chose
not to bench at the Combine.
Positives: Good natural size with a frame to
add some mass. Is fairly instinctive and makes
quick reads. Plays with awareness and recognizes
routes unfolding. Shows good ball skills and
hands (12 career interceptions). Solid run defender. Reliable tackler. Competes hard. Has NFL
bloodlines. Tough-minded and has not missed
any time to injuries. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Poor timed speed. Lacks the acceleration and top-end speed to track receivers
downfield. Too thin with a very lean build and
could struggle withstanding the physicality of
the safety position. Poor weight-room strength
and must get stronger. Character must be evaluated following 07 arrest.
Summary: A pedestrian 4.7-second 40-yard
time at the Combine reaffirmed assessments that
Castille lacks the long speed to play corner at the
next level. Shows the awareness and ball skills to
attempt transitioning to safety but must commit
to an NFL strength-and-conditioning program
and bulk up to endure the pounding. Developmental safety who could be a few years away
from contributing.

CB REGGIE

CORNER

(5-9 18, 175, 4.55e) AKRON

Notes: Member of state championship teams


in high school in both track and football. Sat out
first year at Akron in 2003 while he got his academics in order. Started all 11 games in 04, registering 55 tackles, eight pass breakups and two
interceptions. In 05, started all 13 games and
collected 46-9-2 with two tackles for loss. Started 10-of-12 games in 06, tallying 44-8-4 with
one fumble recovery. Gained a fifth year of eligibility in 07 after meeting NCAA academic
requirements and started all 12 games. Collected
52-12-7, returning an interception for a touchdown vs. Army.
Positives: Good instincts. Has quick feet and
fluid hips to shadow and mirror receivers. Takes
good angles to the reception point. Stood out
against better competition (see Ohio State and

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Connecticut games). Has a good feel for routes.
Shows good quickness and change of direction.
Can plant, accelerate and break on the ball.
Shows great ball skills gets his hands on the
ball very frequently. Plays with confidence.
Negatives: Lacks great speed. Has not faced
great competition. Is undersized. Not book
smart. Could be more physical. Can be outmatched by bigger receivers.
Summary: Quietly has been very productive
in a mid-level program but has not warranted
much attention. What he lacks in size and speed,
however, he compensates for with instincts and
ball skills, and he could live up to his last name
in the big leagues. Could contribute in nickel
and dime packages.

CB-FS KENNARD

COX

(5-1178, 192, 4.6e) PITTSBURGH

Notes: Cousin, Torrie, was a former Pitt


standout and a 2003 sixth-round draft pick of the
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Kennard redshirted in
03. Played all 12 games in 04 and tallied 11
tackles. Played all 11 games in 05, totaling four
tackles. Started all 12 games at right cornerback
in 06 opposite New York Jets 2007 first-round
draft pick Darrelle Revis and compiled 51 tackles, seven pass breakups and one interception
with one tackle for loss. Started all 12 games in
07, collecting 32-5-1 and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Good size for the CB position with
long arms to jam receivers. Nice footwork and
instincts. Shows some maneuverability. Quick to
jump routes in front of him. Tough. Plays with
confidence. Solid, reliable tackler. Very active on
special teams and contributes as a gunner.
Negatives: Is not fast and lacks the long speed
to keep stride with receivers downfield. Shows
some tightness in his hips and is not quick or
sudden transitioning out of breaks. Gets caught
flat-footed and allows receivers to collapse his
cushion and get on top of him too quickly. Average closing speed. Ball skills are a little suspect.
Summary: Frequently was targeted and
exposed as a junior playing opposite Darrelle
Revis but showed improvement as a senior. Will
not work out or test very well but plays fast
enough and possesses the size, instincts and
toughness to warrant consideration as a free
safety or zone corner.

SS DOWAYNE

DAVIS

(5-1118, 192, 4.4e) SYRACUSE

Notes: Born in Jamaica and entered the United States when he was 9 years old. Also lettered
in track as a prep. Appeared in all 12 games at
cornerback as a true freshman in 2004 and registered five tackles. Moved to strong safety and
started all 11 games in 05, tallying 77 tackles,
six pass breakups and two interceptions and
added one sack and one forced fumble. Started
all 13 games in 06 and compiled 70-3-0 with
one forced fumble. Moved to cornerback in the

spring and started all 12 games in 07, moving


back to safety for the final three games of the
season, and finished with 61-4-0 plus three tackles for loss and a forced fumble.
Positives: Good strength and straight-line
speed. Very book smart and has an understanding of the game. Versatile and has lined up at
corner and safety.
Negatives: Undersized for the safety position.
Not an elite athlete. Looks like he must have
flunked geometry with some of the bad angles
he takes to the ball. Is tight in the hips and slow
to transition out of breaks. Lacks natural cover
skills. Marginal ball skills. Does not play with
much awareness. Not a physical tackler. Poor
hands (has two career interceptions, none since
05). Struggles to break down in space and make
open-field tackles. Looks like he thinks too
much and takes time to process what he sees.
Limited special-teams experience.
Summary: Has the strength, speed and smarts
to suggest he could develop, but he has been
slow to come around in three years as a starter,
his instincts are off and he might be too cerebral
in his play. Will need to contribute on special
teams.

S THOMAS

DeCOUD

(6-138, 207, 4.54) CALIFORNIA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003 as a cornerback. Appeared in
10 games in 04, recording nine tackles with
three blocked kicks. Moved to free safety and
played in 11 games in 05, registering 28 tackles
with two blocked punts and one blocked kick.
Started 4-of-11 games in 06, notching 45 tackles and three pass breakups with one tackle for
loss. Missed three games in midseason with a
sprained right knee and did not regain the starting job. Named a team captain and started 12-of13 games in which he played in 07 but was suspended for the first quarter of the Armed Forces
Bowl, along with teammates, DeSean Jackson
and Robert Jordan, for violations of team rules.
Totaled 116-5 and one interception. He also had
two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, three
tackles for loss and a sack. Chose not to bench
press at the Combine.
Positives: Explosive tackler and will deliver
the highlight-reel knockout blow. Is aggressive
coming downhill, lowering his shoulder and driving through ballcarriers. Is willing to sacrifice
his body. Shows good functional strength and
power. Very tough. Willing to square up and
thump. Has a rangy, athletic build with long arms
and natural movement skills. Never gives up on a
play. Good man-coverage skills. Good worker. Is
very smart. Has six career blocked kicks.
Negatives: Limited starting experience (112year starter). Doesnt show great awareness in
zone coverage can be manipulated by the
quarterbacks eyes and lose track of his responsibilities. Does not show great field vision.
Lacks top-end speed and acceleration to cover a
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lot of ground in center field and make plays on
the ball. Bites hard on play-action and takes
some bad angles to the ball. Can be a liability in
the open-field and will miss too many tackles
launches his body and whiffs. Marginal production on the ball (one career interception). Has
been hampered by injuries throughout his career
(ankle, thumb and both knees).
Summary: An aggressive hitter with the physical tools to develop into a solid safety, DeCoud
must learn to break down in space when tackling
instead of going for the more exciting, but less
reliable, knockout shot. Could bring immediate
value on special teams.

FS-PR QUINTIN

DEMPS

(5-1178, 206, 4.41) UTEP

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started 11-of-12 games in 04,
missing the San Jose State contest with a hamstring injury, and tallied 58 tackles, six pass
breakups and two interceptions, including a 42yard TD return against SMU. Also forced two
fumbles, returned a fumble 51 yards for a TD
against Boise State and blocked a kick. Started
all 12 games in 05, compiling 78-9-3 and
returning four kickoffs for 66 yards (16.5-yard
average). In 06, started all 12 games and racked
up 67-12-7 and returned kicks 9-215 (23.9),
including a 91-yard TD return against New
Mexico. Started all 12 games in 07 (six at free
safety and the final six at right cornerback) and
finished with 72-14-5. Also had two fumble
recoveries, 412 tackles for loss and a blocked
kick. He returned two of the picks 100 yards for
scores (vs. New Mexico State and Central Florida). Returned punts 15-200 (13.3) and kickoffs
22-492 (22.4). Did not participate in agility
drills at Combine because of cramping in calves.
Positives: Has a solid, muscular build. Nice
cover skills. Shows good awareness in zones.
Outstanding hands has 17 career interceptions and enters the draft with more picks than
any other defender. Has a knack for locating the
ball and for putting himself in position to make
plays. Good ball skills. Has return experience.
Has been a productive four-year starter.
Negatives: Not physical and does not like
contact. Not a secure tackler. Does not play to
his timed speed or show great range getting over
the top. Shows some tightness in his movement.
Misses too many tackles, resulting in big plays
(see the TDs allowed vs. New Mexico State).
Faced average competition in Conference USA
and did not distinguish himself at the Senior
Bowl or show that he could transition well
enough to play cornerback. Does not have the
long speed to go the distance as a returner.
Summary: Fast, instinctive, ball-hawking free
safety whose lack of toughness and tackling ability are restricting. A near liability vs. the run,
Demps will be exploited by good offensive coordinators who will devise matchups to make him
tackle.
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CB DeMICHAEL

DIZER

(5-1018, 170, 4.55e) GRAMBLING STATE

Notes: Played in five games in 2004, making


six tackles and one pass defended. Also had one
forced fumble and one recovery. Started 5-of-12
games in 05, collecting 57-13 and four interceptions with one forced fumble. Started 9-of-10
games in 06, making 40-3-0 with one sack.
Started 11-of-12 games in 07, collecting 56-103, returning one interception for a TD, with three
fumble recoveries.
Positives: Naturally athletic. Has good movement skills. Quick and agile and can transition
easily out of breaks. Versatile and has seen time
at corner and safety. Plays smart. Willing tackler.
Negatives: Has faced marginal competition.
Narrow-framed and will not get much bigger.
Does not play physical. Could take some time to
adjust to a playbook. Average hands.
Summary: Raw, developmental corner who
played out of position at safety in college. Has
enough quickness and athleticism to develop
into a solid zone corner. Has upside and could
develop.

SS-OLB DERRICK

DOGGETT

(6-214, 203, 4.55e) OREGON STATE

Notes: Has two daughters. Also lettered in


track as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in
12 games as a reserve in 04, securing 13 tackles. Started the first 5-of-12 games at weak-side
linebacker in 05 but was relegated to a reserve
down the stretch and finished with 42 tackles,
one pass broken up and one interception, plus
four tackles for loss. Moved to the strong side
and started all 14 games in 06, amassing 87-53, returning two for TDs against Idaho and
Hawaii, respectively. Also amassed 1412 tackles
for loss and five sacks. Started all 13 games in
07, finishing with 93-7-4, plus one fumble
recovery, 14 tackles for loss, three sacks, one
blocked kick and one safety. Returned one interception for a touchdown vs. Oregon.
Positives: Good size for the safety position. Is
instinctive and locates the ball quickly. Can run
with tight ends down the field and cover backs
and flashes the cover skills to transition. Moves
well for his size and can slip and avoid blockers.
Solid tackler. Shows nice ball awareness.
Negatives: Has struggled to bulk up and add
weight. Not strong or physical and gets hung up
on blocks when engaged. Pedal is not clean and
does not come out of his pedal quickly. Has
never played safety.
Summary: Very undersized college linebacker
who projects to strong safety in the pros. Took
some snaps at safety at the East-West Shrine
game and looked very unrefined but has the
potential to develop.

FS JOE

FIELDS

(6-0, 204, 4.5e) SYRACUSE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball


as a prep. Became the first true freshman to start

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at quarterback for Syracuse since 1982, when he
started the first 3-of-7 games in which he played
in 2004. Completed 13-of-29 passes (48.8 percent) for 192 yards, one touchdown and three
interceptions. Started 3-of-7 games in which he
played at quarterback in 05, tossing 9-28-1550-3 (32.1). Converted to free safety in 06 and
started all 12 games, registering 66 tackles, eight
pass breakups and four interceptions. Started all
12 games in 07, finishing with 97-6-4 and 212
tackles for loss and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Looks the part and has some natural athletic ability. Can keep stride with receivers.
Catches the ball well.
Negatives: Too straight-linish and tighthipped. Not physical. Dips his head and misses
too many tackles lunging. Not a big hitter. Lacks
instincts and is not quick to read and react.
Summary: Would expect a converted quarterback to show a better understanding and grasp of
the game than he does, but lack of instincts is
still too glaring. Raw, height-weight-speed
prospect who showed little improvement as a
senior.

CB-PR BRANDON

FLOWERS (Junior)

(5-934, 189, 4.57) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Led prep team to 36-4 record in four


seasons, finishing with a regional title in Class
5A his senior year. Played in one game in 04,
suffering a right fibular fracture against Western
Michigan that ended his season. Made one tackle and one interception, which he returned for a
TD. Played in all 13 games in 05, starting one,
as the top backup at both field and boundary corner, collecting 20 tackles, four passes defended
and one interception. In 06, started 13-of-13
games and tallied 51-21-3 with 712 tackles for
loss, 312 sacks and one forced fumble. Suffered
an ankle injury vs. Georgia in Chick-Fil-A Bowl
but returned for spring practice. Started all 14
games in 07, collecting 86-14-5, returning one
interception for a touchdown, with eight tackles
for loss and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Plays physically and can hem
receivers at the line. Has a brash on-field
demeanor. Strong tackler. Good instincts. Very
confident and competitive. Solid build with a
thick lower body. Will jar the ball loose and
force fumbles. Very reliable open-field tackler
and is quick to peel off and support the run.
Plays with patience reading double-moves and
does not jump the ball until its in flight. Very
good ball skills. Plays big in big games (see
Boston College game).
Negatives: Very tight-hipped. Does not have
great speed to run with receivers downfield.
Plays too upright and tends to rise in his pedal.
Not very quick to sink his hips, plant and drive
on the ball and loses a half-step in transition covering receivers on comebacks and crossing
routes. Will open up his hips too early. Not a natural bender. Does not show great recovery or
closing speed. Could become a more consistent

catcher.
Summary: Flowers turned in a 40-yard dash
time (4.57 seconds) at the Combine that was
commensurate with his playing speed and measured disappointingly smaller than expected.
Lacks the height, fluidity and downfield speed to
fit as a man corner, but boasts the physicality,
ball skills and tackling ability to excel as a zone
corner in a cover-2 scheme. Could turn out to be
a terrific value pick a la Bears Pro Bowl CB
Nathan Vasher if teams let his measurements
make them forget the way he plays on tape.

CB WILREY

FONTENOT

(5-834, 171, 4.44) ARIZONA

Notes: His high-school track team in Humble,


Texas finished No. 1 nationally in the 4x400
relay. Redshirted in 2003. Started all 11 games
in 04 and finished with 46 tackles, four pass
breakups and two interceptions and added three
fumble recoveries and one forced. Returned one
kickoff for 25 yards and four punts for 26 yards
(6.5-yard average). Started all 11 games in 05
and tallied 51-6-2. Started all 12 games in 06
and amassed 37-8-0 with two tackles for loss.
Had offseason shoulder surgery and missed
spring practice in 07. Started all 12 games in
07, totaling 40-7-1 plus one-half tackle for loss.
Positives: Shows good awareness in zones
and drives on the thrown ball. Good short-area
burst. Can transition fluidly and shadow
receivers down the field. Has been very durable
despite lack of size.
Negatives: Not quick or instinctive. Too
straight-linish. Too often a step late to adjust and
respond to movement. Lacks size, bulk and
strength and does not have the frame to hold up
in the pro game. Struggles to match up with size.
Does not play physical and is not a strong or reliable tackler. Takes too many false steps. Does
not have great recovery quickness. Looked tight
in drills at Combine. Does not have great leaping
ability. Does not track the ball well in the air.
Average hands dropped a pick vs. BYU. Low,
drag-down tackler.
Summary: Size and tackling deficiencies will
almost be restricting but could compete for a job
as a nickel defender. Plays best in tight coverage,
when he can get his hands on defenders and is
best working zones.

CB JERRID

GAINES

(5-1078, 182, 4.44) MIAMI (OHIO)

Notes: Father, Wentford, lettered at Louisville


and was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in
the ninth round of the 1976 NFL draft and
played for the Chicago Bears (1978-80). Jerrid
also lettered in track as a prep, competing in the
200 (22.8 seconds) and 400 meters (49.8).
Appeared in all 14 games as a true freshman in
2003 and secured 17 tackles and one pass
breakup. Played in all 13 games in 04, logging
15-2-1. Was ruled academically ineligible in 05
and burned a redshirt year. Started 11-of-12
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games at boundary corner in 06 and registered
49-4-2. Played in all 13 games in 07, starting
the first five before losing his starting job
because of injury. Came back to start the last five
games of the season and totaled 43-6-1 plus 212
tackles for loss and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Good straight-line speed and foot
quickness. Keeps stride with receivers. Can be
physical and re-route receivers. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Is not quick or sudden. Average
recovery quickness. Does not play fast. Shows
no awareness with his back to the ball and does
not play it in the air. Gets caught flat-footed and
comes out of his pedal too early. Inconsistent
footwork. Soft tackler. Inconsistent effort.
Summary: Nice-sized, boundary corner with
the speed, foot quickness and athletic ability to
warrant a chance in a camp. Lack of instincts,
toughness and ball awareness could limit his
chances.

CB ISAIAH

GARDNER

(5-1034, 195, 4.55e) MARYLAND

Notes: Was a competitive gymnast from ages


8-12. Also lettered in track as a prep. Enrolled at
Notre Dame and redshirted in 2003 but transferred to Maryland in 04 after the coaching
change and sat out because of transfer rules.
Started 1-of-10 games in 05, registering 15
tackles and two pass breakups. Started all 13
games in 06, compiling 63-4 and one interception and adding one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Started all 13 games in 07, totaling 69-10-2 with one forced fumble and one-half
tackle for loss. Also lined up as a gunner and
jammer in the punting game.
Positives: Good size. Plays the ball well in
front of him. Will come up to support the run.
Can bring some value on special teams.
Negatives: Lacks functional speed. Inconsistent footwork takes too many false steps. Too
straight-linish and stiff-hipped. Average athlete.
Not overly physical as a tackler. Could be more
physical at the line. Is too often a step away from
arriving.
Summary: Has a chance as a short-area,
cover-2 corner with potential to be tried as a
safety.

CB CHARLES

GODFREY

(5-1134, 207, 4.47) IOWA

Notes: Saw action in 11-of-12 games as a true


freshman in 2004, mostly on special teams.
Totaled 10 tackles and recovered two fumbles.
Started 3-of-11 games in which he played at free
safety in 05 and won Iowas Special Teams
Player of the Year award. Starts came at midseason before missing one game with an injury and
then returning to backup duty. Finished with 35
tackles and one forced fumble. Moved to cornerback and started all 13 games in 06, tallying
83 tackles, five pass breakups and two interceptions with one forced fumble and one recovery.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Started all 12 games in 07, compiling 65-9-5


with one tackle for loss.
Positives: Excellent size-speed ratio. Can
accelerate in a heartbeat and jump underneath
routes. Is attached to receivers at the hip on
crossers and drags. Versatile has starting
experience at both free safety and cornerback.
Aggressive open-field tackler who does a nice
job fighting through receivers blocks and
attacking the line of scrimmage. Tackles with
power. Has the size, strength and range to be
effective off the hash. Shows awareness in
zones. Fine hands.
Negatives: Does not play to timed speed. Very
unrefined technique. Has a high, unnatural
backpedal and shuffles his feet awkwardly. Can
be slow to sink his hips, plant and drive on the
ball. Plays tall and off balance. Lacks functional
strength and struggles in press coverage. Will
open up too early off the line and let receivers
release inside. Struggles to flip his hips and
takes false steps to regain his balance. Does not
show great recovery speed and can get beaten
deep. Lacks suddenness and lateral quickness.
Not a natural ballhawk. Only bench-pressed 225
pounds 14 times at the Combine despite having
a compact, well-muscled physique.
Summary: Took strides as a senior and has the
size-speed combination to contribute at corner
or safety. Is still fairly raw and will require
coaching to correct his footwork on an island.
Does not have great fluidity or strength to play
off the hash or the mental makeup to direct traffic. Likely will be overdrafted on measurables
and could wind up fitting as a strong zone corner. Has a lot of upside.

CB-FS MICHAEL

GRANT

(5-1014, 186, 4.42) ARKANSAS

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep, competing in the 100 (10.57 seconds) and 200
meters (21.23). Initially signed with Georgia out
of high school, but scholarship was dropped
after an off-field incident. Enrolled at Arkansas
and played all 11 games at cornerback as a true
freshman in 2004, tallying 29 tackles and one
pass deflection. Earned a Southeastern Conference and NCAA event title, plus All-America
honors, in his first year on the track team in 05,
highlighted by a 10.41 time in the 100 meters at
the SEC Indoor competition. Helped set a school
record by running the first leg of the 4x100
timed at 38.49. Saw action as a nickel defender
in all 11 games in 05, racking up 22-7 and three
interceptions with two tackles for loss, one sack
and one forced fumble. Focused on football in
the spring of 06 and moved from corner to free
safety. Started the first nine games in the fall,
registering 41-6-3 with one sack. Tore ligaments
in his knee vs. South Carolina and did not return
for the rest of the season. Started 12-of-13
games in 07 at left corner (nine), right corner
(one) and free safety (two), compiling 75-20-3
with one forced fumble and one tackle for loss.

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Did not run shuttles at the Combine because of
calves cramping.
Positives: Good natural size with the frame to
get bigger. Good ball skills. Is quick to support
the run and fills the alley fast. Good tackler.
Flashes very good straight-line speed. Good closing burst. Versatile has lined up at corner and
safety and contributes as a gunner on the punt
team. Good competitor plays at a high level.
Negatives: Has a thin, small frame and lacks
functional strength. Tweener is undersized
for a safety but is tightly wound and not quicktwitched to line up on an island at corner. Not
physically strong. Does not show great awareness in coverage, especially the farther he has to
go. Average downfield ball skills. Struggled late
in the season. Does not like to work or condition
in the offseason.
Summary: Speed stands out on tape and has
the frame to get bigger and grow into the safety
position. However, could fit best as a press-man
corner until he bulks up. Versatility, ability to
contribute as a gunner on special teams and
toughness will provide some value.

SS MARCUS

GRIFFIN

(5-1014, 201, 4.77) TEXAS

Notes: Twin brother, Michael, also lettered at


Texas and was selected 19th overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2007 NFL draft. Marcus
walked on and played all 12 games as a redshirt
freshman in 2004, logging 10 tackles as a backup to Michael Huff. Played all 13 games in
reserve at free safety in 05 and notched 32 tackles. Started 10-of-11 games in which he played
in 06 at strong safety opposite his brother, missing the Rice and Baylor games with ankle and
left arm injuries, respectively. Amassed 90 tackles, three pass breakups and one interception plus
two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery on
the season. Started all 13 games at strong safety
in 07, totaling 99-10-5. Added one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one tackle for loss.
He returned one interception 91 yards for a TD.
Positives: Good worker. Good experience at
both safety spots. Can run with medium-tier
tight ends. Shows awareness in zones. Specialteams standout. Has NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Has a thin frame with little muscular development and marginal upper-body
strength. No short-area burst or long speed
consistently at least a half step late getting to the
ball. Does not have the range or cover skills to
play center field. Too undisciplined he gets
caught out of position and does not show athleticism to recover. Average cover skills struggles adjusting to and locating the ball in the air.
Not a ballhawk. Very weak, ankle tackler.
Summary: Slow-footed, under-powered box
safety whose lack of speed at the Combine
explained his inability to make plays as a senior.
In a strong secondary surrounded by talent that
could cover up his shortcomings, such as the
group he played with as a junior that featured

two first-round picks, he showed he could be a


productive contributor. However, will need to
make it on special teams to have a chance.

CB-RS JONATHAN

HEFNEY

(5-778, 190, 4.56) TENNESSEE

Notes: Enrolled at Hargrave Military Academy


(Va.) in 2003. Transferred to Tennessee in 04 and
started the final 12-of-13 games at right cornerback after Jason Allen moved to free safety. Compiled 65 tackles, 11 pass breakups and one interception and returned 23 punts for 115 yards (5.0yard average) for the season. In 05, moved to
free safety and started all 11 games, tallying 656-3 and returning punts 13-149 (13.5). Started all
13 games in 06 and recorded 96-8-5. Started all
14 games at free safety in 07, finishing with 966-1 plus two tackles for loss. Also returned punts
14-89 (9.7) and kickoffs 1-15.
Positives: Is fairly athletic and reads the quarterback. Shows some range. Will support the run
and throw his body around.
Negatives: Tweener lacks the size, strength
and striking ability for the safety position and the
fluidity, burst and long speed to man cover on the
outside. Struggles in space and misses too many
open-field tackles (see California game). Did not
stand out at all at the East-West Shrine game.
Looked tight in positional drills at the Combine.
Instincts are not great. Could use some reps.
Arrogant and thinks he is better than he is.
Summary: Experienced four-year starter with
a chance to stick as a nickel and dime defender
and backup zone corner.

SS-OLB CHRIS

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HORTON

(6-018, 212, 4.59) UCLA

Notes: Also lettered in track. Amassed 117


tackles and 21 tackles for loss and also forced 12
fumbles and blocked seven kicks as a high
school senior. Redshirted in 2003. Appeared in
9-of-12 games in 04, missing three contests
with a sprained right foot and notched 27 tackles, two pass breakups and one interception and
blocked two kicks. In 05 fall practice, dislocated his right wrist and underwent surgery that
forced him out of the first six games. Returned
against Oregon State after having the pins from
his wrist removed and played in the final five
games, posting 26-1-0. Started all 13 games in
06 and compiled 95-4-3 and two forced fumbles. Started all 13 games in 07, finishing with
90-4-0 with seven tackles for loss, three sacks,
one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
Positives: Very good size. Shows some
strength and will strike in the alley when he has
a straight-ahead shot. Tough banger. Competes
hard.
Negatives: Very straight-linish and stiff in his
movement and pedal. Does not play fast and is
slow to change direction. Not quick or sudden.
Limited range and ball skills. Marginal cover
skills. Not at all agile. Shows no burst or long
speed. Struggles to break down and tackle in the
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open field. Too easily juked.


Summary: Plays more like a linebacker than a
safety and could be a liability in coverage in the
pros. Some teams have considered moving him
to weak-side linebacker, where his limitations
could be hidden better, but he must add bulk and
get stronger to make the attempt.

CB JACK

IKEGWUONU (Junior)

(5-1012, 194, 4.5e) WISCONSIN

Notes: Twin brother, Bill, plays defensive


back for Northern Illinois. Jack also lettered in
basketball and baseball as a prep. Redshirted in
2004. Started 4-of-13 games in 05 and recorded
26 tackles, six pass breakups and three interceptions, highlighted by a 62-yard touchdown
return against Purdue. Started all 13 games in
06, tallying 41-13-2 with one forced fumble and
a fumble recovery returned 50 yards for a score
against Minnesota. Was arrested along with his
brother in late November of 06 on felony residential burglary and misdemeanor criminal trespass charges after allegedly breaking into an
apartment and attempting to steal an Xbox video
game console. Was suspended immediately by
the university but reinstated two weeks later in
time to start the Capital One Bowl against
Arkansas. Ikegwuonu, who has pleaded not
guilty to the charges, was scheduled to stand
trial in January 2008 in Sycamore, Ill. However,
his defense attorney had a scheduling conflict
and the trial was rescheduled for March 24. If
convicted of the burglary charge, Ikegwuonu
faces a minimum of four years in prison and a
fine of up to $25,000. Started all 13 games at
right corner in 07, totaling 24-15-1. Tore the
anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments
and suffered damage to the kneecap in his right
knee during a pre-Combine workout in late January.
Positives: Very effective at the line is
strong and physical in redirecting receivers off
their routes. Uses his hands to prevent the inside
release. Excellent zone awareness and instincts.
Plays fast, wastes little movement and is very
decisive. Shows great agility and body control
attacking the ball. Very good zone awareness to
peel off and make plays underneath. Can bait the
quarterback and shows nice closing speed and
the body control to break up the pass. Patient in
his backpedal and does not bite on double
moves. Very good hands. Shut down Indiana WR
James Hardy two years in a row. Plays with a lot
of confidence.
Negatives: Sustained a significant knee injury
that could prevent him from playing as a rookie.
Plays a bit flat-footed and can be late to break on
the ball gives up underneath routes. Birddogs the quarterback and, as a result, gets out of
position and loses too much separation. Lacks
great downfield speed and struggles to turn and
locate the ball. Does not break down in space
and misses too many open-field tackles. Not a
quick-twitch athlete.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Summary: Medical evaluations become top


priority following the serious right knee injury
sustained in Combine training. When healthy,
Ikegwuonu was a physical, ballhawking corner
capable of shutting down big receivers. Has the
natural size, press strength and coverage
instincts to develop into a solid starter. However,
it will take a very talented team who could
afford to be patient with his rehabilitation to
mortgage his future. A second-round talent who
could be a solid second-day value pick for a
loaded team such as the Chargers or Patriots.

CB CHEVIS

JACKSON

(6-0, 192, 4.64) LSU

Notes: Played all 12 games as a reserve as a


true freshman in 2004, recording five tackles and
three pass breakups. Started all 26 games at right
cornerback over the next two seasons, notching
47 tackles, three pass breakups and one interception in 05 and 46-16-2 in 06. Also returned
15 punts for 100 yards (6.7-yard average). Started all 14 games in 07, compiling 44-16-5 with
three tackles for loss.
Positives: Very good size with long arms.
Understands zone concepts and knows when to
switch off receivers and support the run. Very
savvy and experienced facing elite competition.
Good production. Shows great zone awareness
and route recognition often looks like he
could run the receivers routes for them. Good
ball skills and hands. Adjusts well to the ball in
the air. Plays strong and with a lot of confidence.
Solid character.
Negatives: Too thinly built with marginal
upper-body strength. Too long-levered and
struggles to transition in and out of breaks. Does
not have great feet or hips. Average transitional
quickness. Lacks burst and suddenness and the
speed to shadow receivers downfield. Rounds
out of some breaks. Not a strong tackler.
Summary: A very instinctive zone corner tailor-made for a cover-2 defense, Jackson simply
lacks the elite speed to match up with top NFL
receivers and would struggle if ever isolated in
man coverage. Lack of foot speed, transitional
quickness and secure tackling could always keep
teams searching for an upgrade. Compares
favorably to Dolphins 2005 fourth-round pick
and RCB Travis Daniels.

CB-RS MIKE

JENKINS

(5-1014, 197, 4.44) SOUTH FLORIDA

Notes: Started 3-of-11 games at right cornerback as a true freshman in 2004 and also saw
action at safety, finishing with 27 tackles and
nine pass breakups and added two forced fumbles, all despite playing with a sprained ankle.
Started all 12 games in 05 and tallied 38 tackles, five pass breakups and two interceptions,
plus one forced fumble and one punt return for
27 yards. Started 12-of-13 games at right corner
in 06, notching 27-15-1 and returning kickoffs
2-27-0 (13.5-yard average). Arrested in March

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07 along with starting SS Carlton Williams, as
the pair attended teammate Stephen Nicholas
bachelor party at an off-campus bar. A large disturbance broke out amongst 200 people outside
the venue, and the pair was arrested and charged
with misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct
and obstructing or opposing an officer without
violence and were suspended indefinitely from
the team. Started all 13 games in 07, finishing
with 41-12-3 and four tackles for loss. He also
returned kickoffs 7-213 (30.4), which included a
100-yard TD return vs. Cincinnati.
Positives: Has a very good size-speed ratio
and can recover easily when out of position.
Great top-end and closing speed. Natural mancover skills. Shows the
agility and fluidity to flip
his hips. Good ball skills
can stick his foot in
the ground and come out
of breaks fast.
Negatives: Lacks consistency plays down to
the level of competition
and takes too many plays
off. Poor intangibles
poor practice habits,
finds excuses not to practice, does not understand
Mike Jenkins
why its important and SOUTH FLORIDA l
relies way too much on
his natural talent. Has been coddled throughout
college and expects prima donna treatment. Tends
to freelance and do his own thing, in part because
of his lack of discipline. Will turn down some
contact and is a very selective hitter. Only hits
when he feels like it. Average ball skills. Marginal hands. Tight in the hips. Does not like to participate on special teams. Lacks mental toughness. Timed faster in the 40-yard dash than in the
20-yard shuttle at the Combine.
Summary: As physically gifted as any corner
in the draft, Jenkins never has lived up to his
potential and might never become the player he
could because of his lack of heart, desire and
work habits. Could emerge as a legitimate mancover corner, but the risk-taking decisionmaker
who spends a first-round pick on him had better
have long-term job security and a lot of tolerance for prima donnas.

SS MARCELLOUS TYRELL

JOHNSON

(5-1178, 207, 4.44) ARKANSAS STATE

Notes: Mother, Patricia, was a sprinter at the


University of Arkansas. Marcellous also lettered
in basketball and track and field as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Started all 11 games at free safety in 04, registering 94 tackles, nine pass
breakups and four interceptions plus one fumble
returned 55 yards for a touchdown against
Idaho. Moved to strong safety in 05 and started
all 12 games, notching 112-4-2 plus one forced
fumble and one fumble recovery. Started 11-of12 games at strong safety in 06 and finished

with 63-5-1. Graduated in August 2007 and


began work on his Masters degree. Started 11of-12 games in which he played in 07, totaling
94-10-6 with 412 tackles for loss and two forced
fumbles. Had a 54-yard interception return for a
touchdown vs. Tennessee. Ended his collegiate
career as the Sun Belt Conferences all-time
leading tackler. Did not run shuttles at Combine
because of right hamstring cramp.
Positives: Good intangibles very smart and
hardworking. Very composed and plays with
great control. Good size, solid build plays
big. Good burst and top-end speed. Excellent
open-field tackler knows how to break down
in space, keep his feet under him and hit with
thump. Plays under control with good balance,
sinks his hips and consistently drives through the
ballcarrier. Powerful tackler with outstanding
upper-body strength bench-pressed 225
pounds more times (27) than many linebackers
at the Combine. Wins one-on-one battles in the
open field. Very strong goal-line tackler. Shows
deceptive closing speed to the ball and arrives in
a hurry. Plays with discipline, shuttle and slides
and does not overpursue. Plays the cut-back.
Runs to the ball and puts himself in position to
make plays. Played his best against elite competition (see Texas, Tennessee games).
Negatives: Has not consistently faced top
competition. Does not show great awareness or
foot speed and will let receivers run past him.
Could be more decisive in pass coverage and can
be late getting over the top. Was challenged in
man coverage at the Hula Bowl.
Summary: Proved he more than belongs after
an impressive Combine performance topped
all safeties in the bench press (27 reps) and
broad jump (10 feet, 7 inches), and turned in a
better-than-expected 40-yard dash time of 4.44
seconds. Measurables aside, Johnson stands out
on tape and at times looked like the best player
on the field vs. Texas and Tennessee. Is an outstanding tackler, plays with tremendous composure and balance and despite coming from a relatively unknown program, possesses the intangibles to transition to the big stage. Is still raw in
coverage but could step in and start from Day
One as a box safety.

SS TONY

JOINER

(5-1178, 216, 4.6e) FLORIDA

Notes: Considered a pro prospect in baseball


as a prep. Saw action mostly on special teams in
nine games as a true freshman in 2004, tallying
six total tackles. Started 1-of-11 games in which
he played in 05, racking up 27 tackles, one pass
breakup and one interception with two tackles
for loss, one forced fumble and one fumble
recovery. Was suspended for the Wyoming
game. Started all 14 games in 06, registering
59-8-2 with 412 tackles for loss and one forced
fumble. Suffered a high right ankle sprain in the
Southeastern Conference championship game
vs. Arkansas but was healthy enough to return
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for the national championship vs. Ohio State.
Started 12-of-13 games in 07, compiling 64-42 with one forced fumble and four tackles for
loss. Was arrested in October on felony burglary
charges for allegedly breaking into a fenced-in
impound of a towing company and retrieving his
girlfriends car. The charge was dismissed, citing
a miscommunication between Joiner and the
owner of the towing company.
Positives: Has good musculature and overall
size. Nice instincts. Plays physical. Will strike
and hit with some power and drive ballcarriers
backward. Plays the ball well in front of him.
Vocal leader. Plays with emotion.
Negatives: Lacks functional speed. Misses
too many tackles. Average ball skills. Does not
show the range to get over the top. Not disciplined and relies too much on his natural ability.
Character is a concern.
Summary: Is big and physical enough to fight
for a job as a box safety but needs to become a
more secure tackler and take the game more seriously.

FS DENNIS

KEYES

(6-158, 205, 4.66) UCLA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Played in 8-of-12
games in 04, missing four contests with a right
shoulder injury, and finished with 10 tackles and
one pass breakup. Started 9-of-12 games in a
rotation at free safety in 05, tallying 57-6-0 and
adding eight tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. Started all 13 games in 06 and compiled
79-6-1 and three forced fumbles. Started all 13
games in 07, finishing with 115-4-3 plus one
fumble recovery and four tackles for loss. Had a
60-yard interception return for a touchdown vs.
Washington.
Positives: Is alert in zone coverage and plays
the ball well in front of him. Will come downhill
to support the run. Good tackling production.
Negatives: Lacks range and the top-end speed
to get over the top. Does not play physically and
avoids direct contact most of his production
comes from the side, and he will run himself out
of plays. Takes some questionable angles. Lacks
great instincts. Did not stand out at the EastWest Shrine game.
Summary: Selective hitter who does have
enough speed to play off the hash or the toughness desired in the box. Will have to make it on
special teams and as a backup safety.

CB JUSTIN

KING (Junior)

(5-1078, 192, 4.36) PENN STATE

Notes: Stepfather, Terry Smith, was a standout wide receiver at Penn State from 1988-91.
Justin was Parade All-American and Pennsylvanias Gatorade Player of the Year. Graduated
high school a semester early and enrolled at PSU
in the spring. Played in every game in 2005 as a
true freshman, starting five at wide receiver and
caught 10 passes for 126 yards (12.6-yard averw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

age) and two touchdowns and rushed 18 times


for 227 yards (12.6). Made 11 tackles, seeing
time on special teams and at cornerback, and
returned three kickoffs for 40 yards (13.3).
Moved to corner full-time and started all 13
games in 06, collecting 30 tackles, seven pass
breakups and one interception. Was arrested in
April 07 on criminal trespassing, disorderly
conduct and harassment charges for his involvement in a fight, but all charges have been
dropped because of a lack of evidence. Started
all 13 games in 07, collecting 49-17-2 with a
fumble recovery.
Positives: Has tremendous burst and top-end
speed. Does not get beaten deep. Exceptional
recovery speed. Plays on his toes and moves
effortlessly in his pedal. Very natural movement
skills can sink his hips and fluidly change
direction. Plays the deep ball like a receiver
can turn, locate and adjust to the ball. Very good
hands. Can squat on underneath routes with the
confidence that he wont get beaten over the top.
Feisty and willing to mix it up. Matched up
favorably against Notre Dame WR Jeff Samardzija and Ohio State WR Ted Ginn Jr. in 2006.
Negatives: Slender frame with marginal
upper-body strength. Plays on his heels too
much with questionable ball awareness and
instincts. Late to react in zone coverage. Lacks
the strength to contend with bigger receivers
(see Indiana game). Will flare his hips open and
bail out too early and is susceptible to the comeback. Does not play with great balance in his
pedal plays a bit out of control and struggles
to react to underthrown balls. Supports the run
too softly and will defer to others to tackle. Not
tough and competitive.
Summary: Showed rare speed and athletic
ability at the Combine and impressive recovery
speed on tape. However, has very average
instincts for the position and still plays cornerback like he is a receiver. Looks very raw and
out of position similar to how Patriots WR Troy
Brown looked when he was used at cornerback.
Has the physical tools to develop into a solid
man-cover corner if he toughens up and learns
the nuances of the position, but the learning
curve could be steep.

CB-KR PATRICK

LEE

(5-1178, 194, 4.41) AUBURN

Notes: Also lettered in track and field as a


prep, winning the Florida state title in the long
jump (23 feet, 10 inches). Redshirted in 03.
Played in 12-of-13 games in 04, securing 14
tackles and one pass breakup. Started the first 5of-12 games in 05 and totaled 9-3, before
Jonathan Wilhite took over because of performance reasons. Started 4-of-12 games in which
he played as a cornerback (three starts) and
nickelback (one) in 06, missing the LSU contest with a stomach ailment and finishing with
25-7 and one interception, adding one forced
fumble and one fumble recovery. Graduated in

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the fall of 2006 with a degree in criminology.
Started all 13 games in 07, amassing 55-10-4
with a forced fumble and a tackle for loss. Also
returned 11 kickoffs for 284 yards (25.4-yard
average).
Positives: Good size-speed ratio. Strong and
physical. Excellent downfield speed can run
with receivers step for step. Is a good, reliable
tackler. Very competitive and feisty. Shows good
zone awareness and sees receivers passing
through zones. Has lined up both in the slot and
outside and has shown he can play man coverage. Has stood out as a gunner on special teams
and can contribute in all phases. Could warrant
looks at safety.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter and is
very raw and still learning the game. Takes too
many gambles. Shows some tightness in his
hips. Needs to learn to play square. Struggles
some in off-man coverage lets cushion get
eaten too easily and is late to transition out of
his breaks.
Summary: Tough, physical corner with the
versatility to play man or off-man coverage and
line up outside or in the slot. Might be best with
a team that employs predominantly zone coverage and should be able to contribute immediately as a gunner on special teams.

CB DWIGHT

LOWERY

(5-1118, 201, 4.64) SAN JOSE STATE

Notes: Intercepted 20 passes in his final two


years of high school and also lettered in basketball as a prep. Enrolled at Cabrillo College
(Calif.) and recorded nine interceptions at free
safety as a true freshman in 2004. Limited by a
hand injury in 05 but still managed to snare four
interceptions. Transferred to San Jose State in 06
and started all 13 games, compiling 48 tackles, 16
pass breakups and nine interceptions and adding
three fumble recoveries. Suffered a broken jaw on
the next-to-last day of 07 spring practice and had
it wired shut for two months. In July, had the
wires removed and quickly rebounded to his
desired playing weight. Started 11-of-12 games
in 07, totaling 44-7-4. Had a 24-yard interception return for a touchdown vs. Hawaii.
Positives: Outstanding production 13
interceptions over the past two seasons. Good
ball skills and catches the ball well. Plays the
ball well in front of him and is alert in zone coverage. Plays with discipline.
Negatives: Lacks foot speed and is not quick
flipping his hips. Does not have much burst or
recovery speed. Will open his hips early and get
beat on a double move. Average athlete. Vulnerable in man coverage. Has an awkward body.
Exposed vs. better competition (see Kansas
State game). Does not show much awareness
with his back to the ball. Does not use his hands
well. Has a short, choppy backpedal. Limited
play range. Not strong or physical.
Summary: Former JUCO transfer put himself
on the map as a junior when he led the nation in

interceptions, but he will not have marginal


WAC quarterbacks to exploit in the pros. Lack of
speed, foot quickness and fluidity could restrict
him to zone coverage. Size and short-area
awareness are ideal for lining up on the slot.

SS NATE

LYLES

(5-1038, 201, 4.55e) VIRGINIA

Notes: Appeared in all 12 games as a true


freshman in 2004 and secured seven tackles.
Started the first 9-of-12 games in 05 and
notched 39 tackles, two pass breakups and two
interceptions for the season before sustaining a
serious neck injury trying to make a tackle. Was
carted off the field and diagnosed with a
bulging cervical disc. Did not participate in 06
spring practice but recovered in time to start the
first 10-of-12 games and total 46-3-1 that fall.
Started all 13 games in 07, finishing with 572-0 with 412 tackles for loss and one forced
fumble.
Positives: Very tough and will strike with
force. Plays aggressively and supports the run
quickly. Takes sharp angles. Plays hard. Shows
some coverage instincts and reacts to balls
thrown in front of him.
Negatives: Does not play with discipline or
show great eyes and instincts. Lacks foot speed
and rarely gets his hands on the ball. Durability
remains a pressing concern despite showing few
residual effects of neck injury as a senior.
Summary: Hard-hitting box safety who has
lined up as a nickel backer and could warrant
interest if he clears medically.

FS COREY

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LYNCH

(6-058, 204, 4.62) APPALACHIAN STATE

Notes: Amassed more than 3,000 rushing


yards and 31 interceptions as a prep. Started 9of-10 games as a true freshman in 2003 and
earned All-Southern Conference second-team
(consensus) honors after recording 57 tackles, 10
pass breakups and six interceptions with two
forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Started the first two games of 04 and posted 13-1-1,
one forced fumble and one fumble recovery
before sustaining a season-ending dislocated
right elbow while returning a punt against Eastern Kentucky. Earned All-America second-team
(AP) recognition in 05 after starting all 15
games and logging 92-13-6. Started 13-of-15
games in 06, missing two contests with a dislocated left elbow suffered against The Citadel that
required the insertion of a plate. Tallied 85-11-5
and five tackles for loss, three blocked kicks, one
of which he returned 79 yards for a score against
Furman. Also returned a fumble 25 yards for a
TD against The Citadel. Started all 15 games in
07, totaling 111-11-6 with one forced fumble,
one fumble recovery and three tackles for loss.
Also blocked three kicks, including what would
have been the game-clinching kick vs. Michigan.
Positives: Good instincts. Plays smart with
great discipline and shows awareness in coverw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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age. Reads the quarterback, anticipates the
thrown ball and has a knack for being in the right
spot at the right time. Quarterbacks the defense
and plays faster than timed speed. Good football
temperament. Is tough and will support the run.
Good hands. Very competitive, vocal leader.
Negatives: Lacks great top-end speed and
acceleration. Gives some ground in transition
and rounds off some breaks. Not a physical,
drive-through tackler. Drops his head and misses some tackles in space.
Summary: Has risen to the occasion in big
games and has been a key contributor on special
teams. Has the mental makeup to compete for a
backup job and produce on special teams.

CB-RS LEODIS

McKELVIN

(5-1014, 190, 4.39) TROY

Notes: Also lettered in basketball as a prep.


Appeared in all 12 games as a true freshman in
2004, registering 17 tackles, one pass breakup
and an interception he returned 71 yards for a
touchdown. Also returned 15 kickoffs for 328
yards (21.9-yard average) and 26 punts for 304
yards (11.7) and two touchdowns. Started all 11
games in 05, compiling 30-5-0 with one sack
and one blocked kick. Also returned kickoffs 24619 (25.8) and one touchdown and punts 33417-1 (12.6). Suffered a broken right ankle during spring workouts in 06 but returned to start
all 13 games and total 66-8-1 and two forced
fumbles. Also returned kickoffs 27-634-0 (23.5)
and punts 28-314-1 (11.2). Still suffers from a
lingering left AC joint injury. Started all 12
games in 07, totaling 60-11-2 with three forced
fumbles and one fumble recovery. Also returned
punts 23-421-3 (18.3) and kickoffs 29-610-0
(21.0). His three punt-return scores led the
nation. Did not participate in Senior Bowl game
because of a hamstring injury.
Positives: Good size. Has excellent feet, loose
hips and pedals as fluidly as any corner in the
draft. Can shadow and mirror receivers without
losing any ground. Shows excellent closing burst
and plant-and-drive quickness. Is very efficient
in press-man or off-man coverage and can cling
to receivers. Shows good instincts sees the
quarterback and reacts quickly. Very good transitional quickness. Plants his foot in the ground
and pops out of his pedal with explosion. Supports the run hard and will deliver a hit. Has
dynamic return ability and can flat-out fly. Finished his collegiate career with seven career kick
returns for touchdowns one shy of the alltime NCAA record. Shows excellent tracking
speed caught Arkansas RB Felix Jones from
behind. Shows good run vision and instincts
when he touches the ball. Responds to hard
coaching. Will work hard to improve.
Negatives: Needs to be challenged and will
coast through the motions at times. Showed
some tightness at the Senior Bowl that was not
previously seen on tape. Hands are too inconsistent and will, at times, misjudge and misplay the
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

ball. Does not always field the ball cleanly. Does


not have a great understanding of the game nor
does he articulate it easily.
Summary: Is very physically gifted with the
foot quickness, fluid hips and explosive, top-end
speed to develop into a top-flight corner. Has
elite return skills to become a game-breaker and
the work ethic to continue to improve. Likely
will be the first corner drafted and could contribute readily in the pros.

CB JUSTIN

McKINNEY

(5-938, 188, 4.59) KANSAS STATE

Notes: Uncle, Greg Jefferson, played defensive


end for the Philadelphia Eagles (1996-99). Justin
signed with Kansas State out of high school but
attended Garden City (Kan.) Community College, redshirting in 2003. Started 10 games at
Garden City in 04, making 56 tackles and five
interceptions. Attended K-State in 05, playing all
11 games and starting three in the teams nickel
and dime packages. Made 29 tackles, 12 passes
defended and three interceptions. Also forced two
fumbles and had one recovery. Started 12-of-13
games in 06, only missing the first play of the
Florida Atlantic game because he had just
returned the opening kickoff 88 yards for a touchdown. Collected 54-8-0 with two forced fumbles,
four tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries.
Returned 12 kickoffs for 296 yards and the one
TD (24.7-yard average). Started all 12 games in
07, totaling 74-12-3, leading the team in tackles,
and had one forced fumble and one blocked kick.
Also returned kicks 8-148-0 (18.5).
Positives: Instinctive. Reads routes and recognizes patterns. Good zone awareness. Can keep
stride with receivers. Shows a burst to close. Supports the run. Solid tackler. Catches the ball well.
Made some plays on the ball at the Hula Bowl.
Negatives: Short for a cornerback. Lacks
great speed. Not explosive out of his breaks. Not
a great athlete. Plays overaggressively and gets
caught grabbing and holding. Not smart. Overaged and will be 25 years old as a rookie.
Summary: A quick, feisty zone corner with a
good chance to make a roster.

SS KEVIN

MITCHELL

(5-11, 211, 4.6e) ILLINOIS

Notes: Father, Stephen, played football at


Indiana; brother, Phil Hayes, at Arkansas; and
uncle, Jon Hayes, at Purdue. Kevin redshirted as
a true freshman in 2003. Played in all 11 games
in 04 as a reserve, finishing with 16 tackles and
one pass breakup, adding one blocked punt.
Started all 11 games at strong safety in 05, compiling 78-3 and leading the team in tackles. In
06, he was beat out of the starting FS spot for
the first two games but regained the role from
junior Justin Sanders and started the final 10-of12 games, recording 79-3 and two interceptions.
In 07, started all 13 games at free safety and
compiled 75-16-5.
Positives: Will come downhill, square up and

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hit. Very good production on the ball.
Negatives: Does not play fast and is slow to
transition out of his pedal. Very stiff and tightly
wound with limited flexibility and bend. Too
straight-linish. Not a great athlete. Takes some
bad angles. Falls into some plays and does not
have great range. Limited cover skills. Marginal
recovery speed and burst. Plays too tentatively.
Not a secure tackler and much of his production
comes from the side. Not a floor leader and does
not make the defensive calls.
Summary: Has a chance to contribute as a box
safety near the line and play like another linebacker. Lacks the fluidity and awareness desired
on the back half.

CB ANTWAUN

MOLDEN

(6-034, 198, 4.44) EASTERN KENTUCKY

Notes: Member of the track relay team that


set three national records as a high school senior.
Enrolled at Toledo in 2003 and sat out as a partial qualifier. Appeared in 13 games in 04 and
totaled 12 tackles. Transferred to Eastern Kentucky in 05 to see more playing time. Played in
all 12 games at right cornerback, starting four
and posting 37 tackles, one pass breakup and
one interception, adding two fumble recoveries.
Played in 10-of-11 games in 06, missing the
Tennessee Tech contest with a bruised right heel,
and saw a lot of action in rotation, notching 361-0. In 12 games in 07, totaled 70-9-2 with one
fumble recovery.
Positives: Excellent size with long arms and a
muscular physique. Naturally athletic. Good
leaping ability. Great upper-body strength
bench-pressed 225 pounds more times (23) than
any other cornerback at the Combine and ran
extremely well for his size, recording sub-4.4
times on some watches in the 40. Moves fluidly
and stays low in his pedal. Good leaping ability.
Willing tackler.
Negatives: Average plant-and-drive speed and
does not show much burst to close. Lacks catchup speed and recovery quickness. Not very
instinctive for the position. Bites on double
moves and gets caught out of position. Is not a
big hitter or overly physical. Is best with simple
assignments and does not play with great zone
awareness. Questionable mental toughness.
Summary: A better athlete than football player, Molden lit up the Combine with a phenomenal workout and caught the attention of scouts
who were quick to revisit his tape and see what
they might have missed. Has the natural physical
tools to be molded but is far from a finished
product. Certainly does not play to his measurements and is still learning how to play the game.
Will be drafted higher than his tape suggests he
should based on high upside and potential.

SS KAREEM

MOORE

(5-1038, 211, 4.67) NICHOLLS STATE

Notes: Played football only as a high school


senior. Also lettered in basketball and track as a

prep. Attended Ole Miss and redshirted in 2003.


Appeared in all 11 games in 04, securing three
tackles. Transferred to Itawamba (Miss.) Community College in 05 and earned JUCO AllAmerica acclaim. Moved on to Nicholls State in
06 and notched 68 tackles, three pass breakups
and one interception. Played 10 games in 07,
notching 60-7-4, leading his team in tackles
despite missing one game. Returned two of his
interceptions for touchdowns.
Positives: Very good size with wide shoulders
and good muscular development. Plays physically and will strike. Good instincts. Plays smart.
Very tough. Secure tackler. Can break down in
space and plays under control. Hits with some
pop and power through his hips and will strike.
Flashes some highlight-reel hits. Shows awareness in coverage. Takes direct angles and beelines to the ball. Plays faster than he times. Has
leadership traits and is highly motivated to succeed. Has been very durable.
Negatives: Lacks great timed speed and can
be late to arrive after diagnosing plays. Does not
show great burst to the ball. Is somewhat tighthipped and not very fluid in his transition. Cannot stick his foot in the dirt and accelerate. Has
some man-coverage limitations.
Summary: A better football player than athlete with the intelligence, toughness and competitiveness to make a roster and contribute.
Striking and tackling proficiency could compensate for coverage limitations, especially if he is
used properly in the box.

FS DaJUAN

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MORGAN (Junior)

(6-018, 205, 4.54) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Notes: Missed his entire senior season of high


school after dislocating his hip in a car accident
prior to the season. Also played baseball and ran
track, winning the Florida state Class 2A title in
the 400 meters his senior year. Caught one pass
for six yards as a true freshman wide receiver in
the 2004 season opener, then played special
teams against Ohio State the next week before
being forced to redshirt because of the effects
from high school hip injury. Ran indoor track for
the Wolfpack in the winter. Played in all 12
games in 05, finishing with 46 tackles, two pass
breakups and 212 tackles for loss. Blocked a punt
vs. Middle Tennessee and ran 44 yards with a
fake punt vs. Virginia Tech. Played in all 12
games in 06, with one start vs. Virginia. Totaled
82-4 with one interception plus one tackle for
loss and one blocked punt. Played in all 12 games
in 07, starting the last 10. Finished with 97-6-3
plus two tackles for loss and one forced fumble.
Positives: Looks the part with a well-sculpted
physique and very little body fat. Very good
upper-body strength. Good short-area burst.
Shows nice lateral range in centerfield and can
accelerate to the sideline. Is fluid flipping his
hips, turning and running. High-points the ball
in the air and attacks it like a receiver. Fills the
alley hard and shows good closing quickness.
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Aggressive tackler. Can deliver the big blow.
Shows some coverage instincts and the zone
awareness to consistently peel off his man and
attack underneath routes. Shows good balance
avoiding the cut block and filtering through traffic to get to the ball. Good special-teams coverage ability. Has been very durable. Outstanding
work ethic. Has a passion for the game. Very
solid character. Versatile has lined up at corner and both safety spots.
Negatives: Only a one-year starter (although
he did see considerable action early in his
career). Takes some questionable angles to the
ball and could do a better job of securing tackles. Not an elite athlete. Can be overaggressive
mirroring the quarterback, especially outside the
pocket, and abandon his responsibilities, leaving
cornerbacks on an island without help over the
top will freelance on the back end.
Summary: Loaded with upside and has yet to
scratch the surface. Played on a very average
defense and tried to do too much. Has been a
consistent special-teams producer and has the
size, speed, toughness and competitiveness to
become a very solid pro.
FS HARUKI NAKAMURA
(5-978, 197, 4.62) CINCINNATI

Notes: Saw limited action as true freshman in


2004, primarily playing special teams, but he did
contribute three tackles as a nickelback. Missed
two games with a high left ankle sprain and two
to illnesses. Made significant strides in 05,
starting all 11 games at free safety and logging
76 tackles, four pass breakups and two interceptions, leading the defense in tackles and interceptions. Also returned 11 punts for a team-leading 88 yards (8.0-yard average). Started all 13
games in 06, amassing 66-6-0 and returning
punts 5-14-0 (2.8). Played in all 13 games in 07,
totaling 95-8-4 with three forced fumbles and 112
sacks. Also returned punts 15-104 (6.9).
Positives: Instinctive. Supports the run hard
and is a very willing hitter. Tough. Plays with
some aggression and energy. Takes sharp angles
to the ball. Shows awareness in coverage, plays
the ball well in the air and has good hands. Very
good worker and will work hard to improve.
Negatives: Very small and undersized. Limited range, burst and coverage skills. Not a secure,
open-field tackler and falls off too many tackles.
Lacks the strength to face up and knock ballcarriers backward. Marginal return skills.
Summary: A good college football player
whose size always will be limiting. Intelligence,
toughness and motor could give him a shot on
special teams.

FS D.J.

PARKER

in 05 at free safety and recorded 34 tackles and


two pass breakups and also returned a blocked
field goal 78 yards for a touchdown. Started all
13 games in 06, tallying 41-9 and two interceptions with two forced fumbles. Started all 14
games in 07, collecting 59-10-3 with one interception return for a touchdown vs. Clemson.
Positives: Natural athlete with fluid movement skills. Can transition out of breaks cleanly
with nice feet and hip swivel. Shows enough
range to get over the top and plays the ball well
in the air. Shows zone awareness and drives on
the ball quickly after released. Can slip blocks
and get downhill. Contributes on special teams.
Solid worker.
Negatives: Narrow-framed with small hands,
short arms and thin ankles. Does not have the
body to support much growth and get bigger.
Plays too small. Is not physical and does not
drive though contact. Can run himself out of
some plays trying to avoid contact.
Summary: Showed some athleticism in practices at the East-West Shrine game and shows
enough range to man the deep middle, but he
lacks ideal strength and toughness to support the
run and disappears too much. Ideal backup and
special-teams contributor.

FS DOMINIC

PATRICK

(6-018, 211, 4.6e) ARIZONA

Notes: Also lettered in track in high school.


Played in five games as a true freshman in 2004,
recording five tackles and one fumble recovery.
Saw action in eight games in 05 on special
teams and as a backup safety, tallying seven tackles and forcing one fumble. Earned the starting
FS spot in 06 and started 11 games, missing one
game vs. California with a neck stinger suffered
the week prior. Finished the year with 56 tackles,
six pass breakups and one fumble recovery.
Started 5-of-9 games in which he played in 07,
missing four games with a torn medical collateral ligament injury, and finishing with 28 tackles,
one pass breakup and 212 tackles for loss.
Positives: Good size. Tough and aggressive.
Shows some striking ability and will come up
quickly to support the run. Times up blitzes well.
Vocal, well-respected team leader. Has a passion
for the game.
Negatives: Durability is a consideration given
history of injuries. Lacks great instincts for the
position and can be late to react to the thrown
ball. Average speed and burst. Does not show
ideal range on the back end. Struggles to break
down in space and misses tackles.
Summary: Needs to prove he can stay healthy
and contribute on special teams to make it.
Toughness and desire give him a chance. Would
be best closer to the line of scrimmage.

(5-1114, 194, 4.61) VIRGINIA TECH

Notes: Attended Hargrave Military Academy


(Va.) in 2003. Enrolled at Virginia Tech in 04
and played in 12 games, registering 10 tackles
with one forced fumble. Started 6-of-13 games
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SS KENNY

PHILLIPS (Junior)

(6-214, 212, 4.52) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Named USA Today Defensive Player


of the Year as a prep in 2004. Also lettered in

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basketball and track in high school. Started the
final 11-of-12 games in which he played as a
true freshman in 05, replacing the injured
Anthony Reddick, and registered 88 tackles,
four pass breakups and one interception with
three tackles for loss and one fumble recovery.
Started all 10 games in which he played in 06,
missing the final three regular-season contests
with a broken thumb, and compiled 71-6-4 with
six tackles for loss. Suffered a broken thumb in
practice before the Georgia Tech game but
played anyway. In 07, started all 12 games and
collected 82-5-2 with six tackles for loss and
three forced fumbles.
Positives: Has great size and moves well for
as big as he is. Secure tackler in the hole and in
space. Is alert in coverage and has good hips and
quick feet. Shows nice ball skills. Very competitive. Lined up at cornerback as a sophomore and
shows some man-coverage ability. Matches up
well with tight ends.
Negatives: Not an elite athlete. Has a narrow
frame and does not play big or physically. A dive
tackler. Can be a little hesitant in his transition
and does not pop out of his breaks. Does not get
his hands on a lot of balls and is not a productive
interceptor (only seven career interceptions in
three years as a starter). Lacks recovery speed
and burst. Turns down some kill shots. Will key
in on the quarterback and lose sight of his
responsibilities. Has missed time with injuries
(thumb, ankle, groin).
Summary: Not nearly as instinctive or athletic as any of the standout first-round safeties that
have come before him Bennie Blades, Sean
Taylor, Ed Reed or Brandon Meriweather and
is not a strong or physical striker. However, he is
big, can run and cover, drop down in the box and
tackle in space. Could instantly upgrade a secondary and start from Day One.

CB-PR TRACY

PORTER

(5-1078, 188, 4.47) INDIANA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track in


high school and has been clocked at 10.4 seconds
in the 100 meters. Did not play cornerback until
his senior year of high school, when he notched
11 interceptions and was offered a scholarship by
Nick Saban at LSU late in the process. Chose to
honor his prior commitment to Indiana and is
very loyal. Started the first seven games at cornerback as a true freshman in 2004 before suffering a broken left clavicle vs. Ohio State. Finished with 22 tackles, six pass breakups and
three interceptions, including one he returned 96
yards for a score. Started all 11 games in 05, tallying 48-6-3 with one forced fumble and one
fumble recovery. Started all 12 games in 06,
compiling 59-8-4 with one forced fumble, one
fumble recovery and one blocked FG attempt.
Also returned 12 punts for 223 yards (18.6) and
an 86-yard TD. Started all 13 games in 07 and
totaled 83-10-6 and recovered two fumbles,
returning one 76 yards for a score. Also returned

punts 23-254-0 (11.0).


Positives: Very good athlete. Moves very naturally with quick feet and fluid hips to lock
down receivers. Good man-cover skills. Catches
the ball well. Provides special-teams value as a
gunner and punt returner.
Negatives: Has a very thin frame. Lack of
toughness and competitiveness is a concern. Not
a hitter and too often shies away from contact.
Will defer to teammates to tackle. Gambles too
much by jumping routes.
Summary: Possesses the speed, athletic ability and fluidity of movement to become a solid
man-to-man cover corner but might not be up to
the challenge physically and his toughness will
certainly be tested. Will tackle if he must, but
miss if he can.

CB MATTERRAL

RICHARDSON

(5-11, 194, 4.71) ARKANSAS

Notes: Nickname is Red. Saw limited action


in 10 games as a true freshman at cornerback in
2004, registering 13 tackles and one pass breakup.
Started 8-of-11 games in 05 at both free safety
(five) and left cornerback (three) and finished
with 44-7 and one sack. Moved to right cornerback in 06 and started all 14 games, tallying 6310 and one interception with one forced fumble
and one fumble recovery. Started 11-of-13 games
in 07, totaling 60-10-3 with one sack and one
fumble recovery.
Positives: Has nice size. Is tough and will
support the run. Likes to compete. Plays with
confidence.
Negatives: Limited zone experience. Tends to
rise in his pedal in man-off coverage and is not
fluid transitioning. Average instincts. Lacks
great burst out of his breaks and can be late to
arrive. Poor Combine showing barely cracked
the 4.7 barrier.
Summary: Good-sized, undisciplined pressman corner who plays faster than his timed
speed. However, poor Combine showing will
limit his chances severely.

FS DAVID

ROACH

(6-038, 210, 4.57) TEXAS CHRISTIAN

Notes: Son of a minister. Redshirted in 2003


with a torn right meniscus. Started 2-of-10
games in which he played in 04, missing the
SMU contest with a strained hamstring, and registered 19 tackles and one pass breakup. Started
2-of-11 games in which he played in 05, sitting
out against Utah with a strained hamstring, and
recorded 41-2 and one interception with one
forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Started
11-of-12 games in which he played in 06,
amassing 33-4-0 with one forced fumble. Started all 13 games in 07, amassing 77-7-1 with 312
tackles for loss, 112 sacks and two forced fumbles.
Positives: Looks every bit the part with a
well-chiseled physique. Natural athlete with
great leaping ability and movement skills.
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stick his foot in the ground and accelerate.
Excellent closing speed. Outstanding leaping
ability (3812-inch vertical). Smooth and fluid
pedal. Very good transitional quickness and
body control. Can move better in reverse than
many defensive backs can move forward. Natural ballhawk attacks the ball in the air and
catches like a receiver. Good feet. Has long arms
and a long wingspan. Is a good competitor and
showed he could hang with the big boys and was
willing to hit at the Senior Bowl. Has legitimate
return ability.
Negatives: Has a very wiry build. Has faced
marginal competition and was not regularly
matched up vs. NFL-caliber receivers. Lacks
lower-body strength and pop as a tackler. Plays
soft and with too much finesse. Needs to get
stronger. Questionable toughness. His tackling
deficiency might never disappear. Has to learn
how to play square to the line of scrimmage and
pedal instead of bailing all the time and freelancing. Most coverage assignments were very
simple in college.
Summary: Has had a meteoric draft postseason and calmed major fears about his tackling
deficiency, showing exceptional cover skills at
the Senior Bowl and blowing the doors off the
Combine. Clearly comes from world-class
bloodlines and has performed like a top-10 talent since his season ended. Could become an
excellent cover corner with continued physical
development.

Shows awareness in zones. Willing tackler. Had


a 38-inch vertical jump at the Combine, better
than any other safety.
Negatives: Not instinctive. Marginal ball
skills. Poor hands only has two career interceptions. Has man-coverage limitations. Not a
secure tackler and whiffs too much. Did not run
as well as expected at the Combine. Has been
dinged and knicked a lot and seems to miss some
time every year. Not a great worker.
Summary: Has the raw measurables to develop but is tightly wound with average instincts
and ball skills to play on the back end and might
never figure it out.

CB-KR DOMINIQUE

RODGERS-CROMARTIE

(6-112, 184, 4.33) TENNESSEE STATE

Notes: Cousin of Chargers Pro Bowl CB


Antonio Cromartie. Dominique started all 11
games as a true freshman in 2004 and tallied 33
tackles, five pass breakups and two interceptions, both of which were returned for touchdowns. Started 11 games in 05, amassing 41-51 with one blocked kick. Started all 11 games in
06, collecting 47-13-5 and one blocked kick.
Started 11 games in 07 and totaled 37-13-2,
returning both interceptions for touchdowns, and
blocked four kicks (three field goals, one extra
point), three of which saved games. Also
returned 33 kickoffs for 806 yards (24.4-yard
average) with one touchdown and four punts for
16 yards (4.0). Also rushed two times for 16
yards and caught one pass for 38 yards.
Positives: Excellent size-speed ratio and
short-area burst. Has world-class speed. Can

CB-KR ORLANDO

BRUCE L. SCHWARTZMAN

DOMINIQUE RODGERS-CROMARTIE

l TENNESSEE STATE

SCANDRICK (Junior)

(5-10, 192, 4.36) BOISE STATE

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160

Notes: Played wide receiver, defensive back


and returned kicks as a prep in California. Started
12-of-13 games as a true freshman in 2005, finishing with 50 tackles, 11 pass breakups, one
interception that he returned 50 yards for a touchdown, one forced fumble, three tackles for loss
and one sack. Also returned a blocked field goal
for a touchdown and returned a blocked extra
point for a two-point conversion against Hawaii.
Started all 13 games in 06, totaling 52-6-1 along
with two forced fumbles, 612 tackles for loss and
two sacks. Returned a blocked extra point for a
two-point conversion against Hawaii for the second straight season. Started all 13 games in 07,
racking up 50-7-2 with two forced fumbles, three
tackles for loss, one-half sack and four blocked
kicks. Also returned four kickoffs for 78 yards
(19.5-yard average) and one punt for 54 yards.
Did not bench at the Combine because of a left
thumb injury.
Positives: Good speed and playing range to
carry receivers down the field. Shows acceleration out of his breaks to close on the ball. Good
short-area ball skills.
Negatives: Has not faced top competition.
Questionable toughness. Does not play physically. Gives up too many big plays. Not a strong
tackler. Very average downfield ball skills. Not a
worker. Has a long memory. Is moody and

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immature. Takes himself out of games. Cannot
play with pain.
Summary: Has the raw physical talent to warrant consideration in the second round but could
be exposed vs. better competition and be difficult to manage. A high-risk pick.

CB GLENN

SHARPE

(5-1112, 184, 4.64) MIAMI (FLA.)

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep and


holds school 400-meter record (47.25 seconds).
Started 3-of-12 games in which he played as a
true freshman in 2002, registering 18 tackles and
three pass breakups with one fumble recovery.
Played the first seven games in 03, recording 54 and one interception before suffering a seasonending torn left anterior cruciate ligament.
Played the first two games in 04 before undergoing arthroscopic surgery on the still-nothealed left ACL and redshirted. In the summer of
05, suffered a torn right ACL and received a
second medical redshirt. Started 12-of-13 games
in which he played in 06 nine at left corner
and three at right corner compiling 44-14-2.
Received the Brian Piccolo Award as the most
courageous player in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Graduated and is working on a second
degree. Started 1-of-9 games in which he played
in 07 in a rotation at left corner, missing time
with a hamstring injury, totaling 13-3-1 plus one
forced fumble and one recovery.
Positives: Has nice size. Is fairly instinctive
and shows zone awareness. Plays with balance
in his feet and can come out of breaks easily.
Good leaping ability.
Negatives: Not tough. Low cut tackler
does not like to hit. Gets beat too much and has
a long memory. Durability is a major red flag
and will knock him off most draft boards.
Summary: A sixth-year senior who has never
been able to stay healthy and has never been the
same since getting flagged for pass interference
in the national championship game vs. Ohio
State and allowing the game-winning TD. Has a
chance to compete as a situational nickel back if
he could ever stay healthy.

SS JAMIE

SILVA

(5-1034, 204, 4.84) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Was a four-year, two-way starter in


high school. Also lettered in basketball, baseball
and track as a prep. Brother, Steve, was a running back at Holy Cross (2001-05). Jamie redshirted in 03. Started 3-of-12 games in 04 at
strong safety, making 43 tackles, two pass
breakups and one interception with one forced
fumble and three fumble recoveries. Started 7of-12 games in 05, finishing with 87-2-1 with
412 tackles for loss and one sack. Started 12
games in 06, missing the Maine game with a
knee injury, and recorded 57-5-4 with 612 tackles
for loss and one sack. Started 14 games in 07
and totaled 125-11-8, including an interception
return for a TD, with four tackles for loss, 112

sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble


recovery returned for a score. Also nine returned
punts for 71 yards (7.9-yard average). Did not
bench at the Combine because of a left shoulder
injury and chose not to participate in agility
drills.
Positives: Plays faster than timed speed.
Always around the ball. Has a knack for being in
the right spot at the right time and puts himself
in position to make plays. Great production.
Excellent hands has 14 career interceptions
as a two-year starter. Very smart and instinctive
and understands the game. Quick reactor. Preys
on young quarterbacks. Has good eyes and good
anticipation. Plays physically. Provides specialteams value in the return game. Excellent worker. Possesses a passion for the game.
Negatives: Marginal athlete, at best shows
very little short-area burst and no explosion.
Lacks the speed to play center field or run with
tight ends up the seam. Struggles to flip his hips
and run vertically. Very short-armed (2958 inches) and gets engulfed easily in tight quarters.
Summary: Silva will be overmatched by the
speed of the game at the next level, but he is
tough and willing to mix it up and could back up
as a box safety. A much better football player
than athlete, Silva could contribute immediately
on special teams.

CB-RS REGGIE

SMITH (Junior)

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(6-012, 199, 4.55e) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep. Started 10-of-12 games, including the
final nine at strong safety as a true freshman in
2005, totaling 47 tackles, three pass breakups
and two interceptions with one fumble recovery.
Also returned 18 kickoffs for 377 yards (20.9yard average). Started 13-of-14 games at cornerback (three) and strong safety (10) in 06 and
posted 41-11-3, highlighted by a 42-yard TD
return against Baylor. Also had one fumble
recovery and returned kickoffs 12-271 (22.6)
and punts 37-287 yards (7.8) with one touchdown. Started all 13 games in which he played at
cornerback in 07, totaling 78-14-3 with seven
tackles for loss, one sack and returned a fumble
61 yards for a touchdown vs. Miami (Fla.).
Injured his left knee while returning a punt vs.
Iowa State but didnt miss any games until a broken toe kept him out of the Fiesta Bowl.
Returned punts 30-203-0 (6.8) and kickoffs 3-73
(24.3). Was ruled a medical exclusion and did
not participate at the Combine.
Positives: Very good size with a muscular
build and good bubble. Physical supporting the
run and will face up ballcarriers and hit with
power. Shows good ball skills, coverage awareness and playing instincts. Squats on routes and
can drive on the ball. Has shown nice range to
come off the hash. Has lined up at cornerback,
free safety, nickelback and as a punt returner and
provides great versatility. Very experienced
has more than 30 career starts in three seasons
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with extended time at both cornerback and safety. Has punt-return ability.
Negatives: Shows some lapses in concentration at safety and will be late getting over the
top. Takes some poor angles to the ball. A bit
tight-hipped and straight-linish and does not
possess great speed to close on the ball. Does not
show an extra gear. Does not sink his hips easily
and dart out of breaks and possesses too much
hip stiffness to ever get much faster. Could
struggle to keep stride with receivers down the
field. Freelances too much. Has a prima donna
attitude and thinks he is better than he is.
Summary: Held his own at cornerback as a
junior but lacks great burst, fluidity and transitional quickness to make a seamless transition to
the pro game. Possesses the size, toughness,
awareness and tackling prowess to fit best as a
zone corner and could prove most capable at free
safety. Rehabilitation process from toe injury
limited ability to work out and could affect draft
status.

SS CRAIG

STELTZ

(6-138, 213, 4.62) LSU

Notes: Brother, Kevin, played fullback for the


LSU from 2003-05. Craig saw limited action as a
true freshman in 2004, logging one tackle. Started 3-of-13 games in 05 and totaled 40 tackles,
two pass breakups and one interception, along
with one fumble recovery and one blocked punt.
Started 3-of-13 games in 06, amassing 42-9-4 in
reserve behind Jesse Daniels and became the first
player in school history to intercept a pass in four
consecutive games. Started all 14 games in 07,
collecting 101-7-6 with three forced fumbles,
five tackles for loss, one sack and one fumble
recovery. Did not participate in Combine workouts because of right shoulder injury.
Positives: Has outstanding size and strength.
Plays very smart and leverages the ball in deephalves coverage. Nice instincts. Attacks the ball
in the air and shows very good hands. Does not
waste movement or take false steps. Sees the
quarterback and drives on the ball. Showed
improvement late in the season and played his
best vs. top competition (see Florida, Arkansas
games). Has a passion for the game. Treats his
body like a temple.
Negatives: Does not play to his size and is not
overly physical. Erratic open-field tackler
struggles to break down in space. Can be slow to
support and is not a sure tackler. Shows some
tightness in his hips and lacks the fluidity to
man-up against receivers. Plays at one speed and
lacks the burst and acceleration to keep pace vertically. Loses some ground in transition and is
not quick out of breaks. Average speed in center
field and can be a half step late getting over to
the sideline. Did not attend the Senior Bowl
because of a right shoulder stinger suffered in
the BCS championship game.
Summary: Really emerged as a senior and
showed surprising instincts and anticipation for
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a first-year full-time starter. Has the football


intelligence and toughness to start in a strong
secondary that could hide his speed limitations.
Shoulder injury requires further evaluation and
could knock him off some draft boards.

CB BRANDON

SUMRALL

(5-978, 195, 4.66) SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and track as


a prep in Mississippi. Saw action in 9-of-12
games as a true freshman in 2004 and tallied six
tackles. Started all 12 games at rover in 05,
racking up 88 tackles, five pass breakups and
four interceptions with two forced fumbles. In
06, started all 13 games and recorded 77-2-2
plus three forced fumbles, returning 19 kickoffs
for 401 yards (21.1-yard average). Moved to
cornerback and started all 13 games in 07, registering 98-8-6 with three forced fumbles, one
fumble recovery, five tackles for loss and one
sack. One of the interceptions was returned 82
yards for a touchdown vs. Memphis. Added 1568 (4.5) on punt returns. Chose not to do bench
press at the Combine.
Positives: Plays faster than timed speed would
indicate. Physical at the line and does a good job
re-routing receivers. Is quick and agile and
shows a good short-area burst to break on the
ball. Plays smart. Has good hands and is a natural interceptor. Solid tackler.
Negatives: Is short and undersized for the
safety position he played most of his career. Not
smooth or fluid in his pedal. Limited man-cover
skills struggles to shadow and mirror
receivers. Does not have the long speed to keep
pace with receivers deep.
Summary: Quick, physical, undersized zone
corner with speed limitations. Could provide
some versatility in a secondary and contribute on
special teams.

CB AQIB

TALIB (Junior)

(6-034, 202, 4.49) KANSAS

Notes: Redshirted in 2004 as a true freshman.


Started 9-of-11 games in 05, tallying 54 tackles,
eight pass breakups and two interceptions plus
two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. In
06, started 10-of-12 games and racked up 4222-6, leading the nation in passes defended per
game (2.8) and the conference in interceptions.
Also recorded a 42-yard TD reception as a wide
receiver in the season finale against Missouri. In
07, started all 13 games, collecting 66-18-5
with 195 yards in INT returns and two touchdowns. Also had one forced fumble, one fumble
recovery and caught eight passes for 182 yards
(22.8-yard average) and four touchdowns,
rushed one time for minus-6 yards and returned
two punts for 21 yards (10.5).
Positives: Excellent size with long arms. Very
naturally athletic. Great instincts. Very disruptive
always around the ball. Reads the quarterbacks drop, shows great route recognition and
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size with very good ball skills and great hands.
Has a smooth backpedal and can sink his hips.
Good versatility has lined up at receiver and
has five career TD receptions. Is an instinctive
runner returned two interceptions for TDs in
07. Extremely confident and competitive.
Negatives: Has manufactured speed and does
not play to his 40 time. Tends to freelance too
much. Very soft and inconsistent at the line of
scrimmage whiffs too much in press coverage
and lets receivers release cleanly. Lacks recovery speed (see Kansas State, Nebraska games).
Does not show an extra gear and can be challenged vertically. Can be aggressive and run
himself out of position biting on play-action
fakes. Does not play to his size in the red zone
and can be posted up. Not a quick-twitch athlete.
Lacks upper-body strength only benchpressed 225 pounds 10 times, the lowest total of
any cornerback who lifted at the Combine. Not a
physical tackler and rarely faces up ballcarriers.
Very arrogant, thinks he is better than he is and
needs to be managed closely.
Summary: Prolific college corner made a lot
of plays on the ball but was exposed by Kansas
States Jordy Nelson and Nebraskas Maurice
Purify solid, but not spectacular, athletes
as being glaringly weak in press coverage and
lacking the speed and quickness to isolate in
man coverage in the pros. Talibs size, instincts,
and ball skills are clearly best-tailored for a
zone-coverage scheme, but his aversion to contact and inconsistencies as a tackler are causes
for concern. Reputation could surmount substance, and Talib might be overdrafted. Character questions could come into play.

CB DARNELL

TERRELL

(6-134, 203, 4.49) MISSOURI

Notes: Also lettered in track as a prep. Attended Coffeyville Community College (Kan.) and
redshirted in 2003. Tallied 46 tackles, four pass
breakups and one interception with one blocked
kick in 04. Transferred to Missouri and played
all 12 games in 05, registering 13-3-2. Started
all 13 games at left cornerback in 06, compiling
70-9-1 with two forced fumbles. Started 11-of14 games in 07, collecting 41-11-0 with three
fumble recoveries. Replaced in starting lineup of
Cotton Bowl by Castine Bridges. Chose not to
run agility drills at the Combine.
Positives: Rare size with long arms. Good
straight-line speed. Is physically strong and willing to support the run. Jumps some routes in
front of him. Solid worker.
Negatives: Too stiff in the hips and straightlinish. Struggles to change direction and drive
on the ball. Has marginal ball skills and poor
hands (three career interceptions at Missouri).
Marginal transitional quickness. Inconsistent
footwork takes too many false steps. Lacks
awareness with his back to the ball. Would
expect him to be more physical for his size.
Summary: Has the athletic traits to warrant a

look at safety but marginal ball skills, awareness


and toughness always will restrict him to cornerback. Is best manning short areas in a zone
scheme. Tape does not equate to measurables.

CB TERRELL

THOMAS

(6-012, 202, 4.52) USC

Notes: Also lettered in track in high school,


running the 100 meters (10.5 seconds) and 200
meters (21.4). Redshirted in 2003 after suffering
a dislocated right shoulder in fall practice that
required surgery. Appeared in 11-of-13 games at
safety in 04 and tallied nine tackles, two pass
breakups and two interceptions. Moved to cornerback and started the first two games in 05,
posting 5-1-0 before tearing the anterior cruciate
ligament and medial collateral ligament in his
right knee. Returned from injury to start all 13
games in 06 and total 50-12-2 with three tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and a blocked
field goal returned for a touchdown. Underwent
surgery prior to spring practice in 07 for a dislocated left shoulder. Started all 13 games in 07,
totaling 45-7-4 plus 412 tackles for loss, one sack
and three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Chose not to run any agility drills at Combine.
Positives: Good size with very, very long
arms. Makes quick, decisive zone reads and has
a good feel for the game. Good instincts. Uses
his hands well in press coverage. Shows good
zone awareness passes off his receiver and
breaks underneath. Good sideline awareness.
Can keep stride with receivers. Assignment conscious plays smart and runs to the ball.
Negatives: Not a great athlete. Lacks downfield speed to be left on an island in man coverage. Plays overaggressively and will bite hard on
pump fakes and double moves and get beaten
over the top. Does not play consistently up to his
size and tackle with strength. Lengthy injury history must be evaluated.
Summary: Thomas has good size, very good
zone recognition and the decisiveness to excel
in a cover-2 scheme. Entered the program as a
safety and could warrant some looks on the
back end but might not be rangy, physical or
durable enough to survive the contact between
the hashes.

CB-PR DeJUAN

TRIBBLE

(5-834, 189, 4.63) BOSTON COLLEGE

Notes: Also lettered in basketball, baseball


and track in high school. Redshirted in 2003.
Started 3-of-11 games in 04, recording 29 tackles, five pass breakups and two interceptions
with one tackle for loss and one forced fumble
and returned one blocked punt 29 yards for a
touchdown. Returned eight punts for 81 yards
(10.1-yard average) and one touchdown. Reportedly was detained by police on May 20, 2005
after an officer noticed him with B.C. basketball
player Sean Williams hiding by the trees and
smelled burnt marijuana. Started 10-of-11
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games in 05, compiling 57-8-2 with three tackles for loss and one forced fumble. Returned
eight kickoffs for 150 yards (18.8) and 12-132-0
(11.0) on punts. Missed the Ball State game with
a hamstring injury. Started 12-of-13 games in
06, not starting vs. North Carolina State
because of a bruised left knee, and finished with
49-10-7 and four tackles for loss. Returned three
of his seven interceptions for touchdowns, which
tied a school career and season record. Returned
8-185 (23.1) on kickoffs and 27-236-0 (8.7) on
punts. Reportedly was accused of punching a
man on July 1, 2007 at a Boston bar. Started 10of-11 games in which he played in 07, missing
the last two regular-season games and the ACC
championship game with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee, but he returned
for the Champs Sports Bowl. Totaled 35-12-4
with two tackles for loss and one forced fumble
and returned punts 8-43-0 (5.4).
Positives: Good instincts. Squats on routes
and plays the ball well in the air. Very good
hands has 15 career interceptions. Makes
some aggressive, opportunistic plays on the ball
and adjusts to it well. Has a swagger. Good closing quickness in short areas. Dependable tackler.
Negatives: Too short loses out on jump
balls (see Georgia Tech game). The farther he
has to run, the more he struggles. Does not play
very disciplined gets out of position too
much. Too tightly wound. Lacks great long
speed and can get beat deep. A dive tackler. Is
small and plays small. Various off-field indiscretions are cause for concern. Can be distracted
easily, and trouble seems to find him off the
field.
Summary: An instinctive zone corner who can
always be mismatched by size and speed, Tribble could contribute as a nickel- and dime-package defender and provide some special-teams
value in the return game.

CB JUSTIN

TRYON

(5-918, 190, 4.54) ARIZONA STATE

Notes: All-American in track as a prep. Personal bests in high school include 10.6 seconds
in the 100 meters, 21.2 in the 200 meters and a
47.25 in the 400 meters. Attended San Joaquin
Delta College (Calif.) in 2002. Did not attend
school in 03. Enrolled at College of the
Canyons (Calif.) from 2004-05, helping the
team to a junior-college national championship.
Transferred to ASU in 06 and started all 13
games, recording 47 tackles, eight pass breakups
and one interception with 212 tackles for loss,
one sack and two fumble recoveries. Also
returned five kickoffs for 206 yards (41.2-yard
average). Started all 13 games in 07, totaling
56-9-3 with one forced fumble. Returned an
interception 69 yards for a TD vs. Washington
State. Also returned kicks 7-166 (23.7).
Positives: Plays faster than timed speed would
indicate. Can run step for step with receivers
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down the field. Flips his hips and shows good


recovery speed and closing burst. Uses his hands
very well in press coverage to prevent an inside
release. Nice awareness to peel off in zone coverage. Plays bigger than his size and is very
strong pound for pound. Solid open-field tackler.
Good competitor. Has kick-return experience
and the speed to go the distance.
Negatives: Very undersized and could be challenged by size. Will slow down and lose some
separation trying to locate the ball. Takes too
many false steps and is not clean out of his
breaks. Is not very quick or agile changing direction and allows too much cushion. A bit straightlinish. Could need some reps.
Summary: Might struggle with the size of pro
receivers but shows good awareness and toughness as a tackler. Could pay immediate dividends in the return game and as a nickel defender. Still raw and learning the game and has some
upside.

CB MARCUS

WALKER

(5-1038, 191, 4.54) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Started the final 4-of-5 games as a true


freshman in 2004 after coming out of his redshirt season against Texas A&M and posted 14
tackles and one pass breakup. In 05 spring practice, he sustained a dislocated right shoulder.
Returned to play 7-of-12 games, logging 8-0, but
he missed five contests after dislocating the
same shoulder. Underwent surgery on the shoulder for a second time. Started the final 11-of-14
games in 06 after Reggie Smith moved to
strong safety and secured 32-9 and three intercptions, including a 33-yard return for a TD in
the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State. Underwent
offseason left shoulder surgery and sat out 07
spring practice. Started all 14 games in 07,
compiling 47-2-0 and two tackles for loss.
Chose not to do bench press at the Combine.
Positives: Good athlete. Nice short-area burst.
Good movement skills can flip his hips to
shadow and mirror receivers. Can run and cover.
Very good intangibles.
Negatives: Does not have the extra gear to run
step-for-step down the field with receivers. Shies
away from contact. Lacks functional strength.
Durability is a concern has a history of shoulder injuries that affect his play. Footwork is a bit
choppy and unrefined. Does not play the ball
well in the air. Has two skillets for hands has
only three career interceptions. Does not play
with a lot of confidence or trust his instincts and
aggressively drive on the ball the way he has
shown flashes of doing.
Summary: Has good size and nice physical
tools and could provide solid depth at corner if
he can stay healthy.

SS NEHEMIAH NEMO

WARRICK

(6-078, 211, 4.57) MICHIGAN STATE

Notes: Cousin, Peter, was the fourth overall


pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2000 NFL

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draft and played six seasons with the Bengals
and Seattle Seahawks. Nehemiah enrolled at
Hutchinson Community College (Kan.) in 200405 and earned National Junior College AllAmerica first-team honors as a safety. Enrolled
at Michigan State in 06 and started 10-of-11
(six starts at strong safety, four at bandit) at
MSU in 06, sitting out the Northwestern game
with a twisted knee. Totaled 45 tackles with
three passes broken up and 312 tackles for loss.
Started 11-of-12 games in which he played in
07, missing the Pittsburgh contest with a lowerleg injury suffered the week prior vs. Bowling
Green. Tallied 61-3 with one tackle for loss.
Positives: Good natural size. Quick and agile.
Wrap-up tackler. Will support the run and deliver some big shots on unsuspecting receivers. Has
NFL bloodlines.
Negatives: Not a great athlete. Shows some
tightness in his movement. Average instincts.
Does not play fast slow to process and react.
Takes some questionable angles. Can be a liability in pass defense. Does not show a burst out of
his break. Lacks top-end speed and does not
show good center-field-to-sideline range. Does
not play the ball well in the air and has zero ball
skills. Could struggle to adjust to an NFL playbook and will require some patience.
Summary: Has good size and athleticism to
provide depth as a box safety but is still raw and
limited in coverage and is at least a few years
away from contributing. Will have to make a
mark on special teams to stick on a roster.

SS MARCUS

WATTS

(6-012, 189, 4.58) KANSAS STATE

Notes: Won the Kansas Class 5A title in the


pole vault as a prep, qualified for state in four
other track and field events and also lettered in
basketball. Enrolled in the winter of 2002. Redshirted as a wide receiver in 03 and saw action
primarily on special teams in 04. Converted to
free safety and started all 11 games in 05,
notching 71 tackles and five pass breakups.
Added two forced fumbles and three punt
returns for 10 yards (3.3-yard average). In the
season finale against Missouri, he sustained a
dislocated left hip and began the 06 season as a
reserve while recovering. Eventually started 5of-9 games in which he played, missing four
contests with a torn ligament in his right wrist
suffered against Oklahoma State. Amassed 26-13 with two forced fumbles and one blocked punt,
despite the injuries. Started 9-of-11 games at
free safety in 07, working in a rotation at the
position, and amassed 63-4-1 with three tackles
for loss. Attempted one pass, which was intercepted. Missed the Texas game with right shoulder and wrist injuries.
Positives: Smart lines up the secondary.
Plays alertly. Will come up hard to support the
run. Hits with some force. Tough and competitive. Plays the ball in the air. Vocal leader.
Negatives: Too lean and narrow-framed.

Lacks bulk and bulk strength. Takes some questionable angles to the ball. Average speed and
burst. Is often a second late to arrive. Durability
is a big question mark.
Summary: Could fight for a job on special
teams if he could ever stay healthy.

CB TERRENCE

WHEATLEY

(5-958, 187, 4.44) COLORADO

Notes: Holds school records in track in the


triple jump (50-8), long jump (24-612) and 100
meters (10.15 seconds). Dislocated his right
wrist in the spring of 03 and had surgery on it.
Saw action in all 12 games on special teams and
six at cornerback in 03, including two starts, tallying 24 tackles and five pass breakups. Did not
practice in the spring of 04 after having wrist
surgery again. Started 5-of-12 games in 04,
missing starts in several because of nagging
injuries to wrist, groin and hamstring. Finished
with 33-3 and four interceptions with one tackle
for loss and also returned 19 kickoffs for 418
yards (22.0-yard average). Had wrist surgery in
August of 05, forcing him to sit out and redshirt
the season. Returned in 06 to start all 12 games
and notched 57-11-5 to lead the team in pass
breakups and picks. Also had one forced fumble
and two fumble recoveries. Started the first 10
games in 07 before suffering a hairline fracture
in his foot and missing the final two games. Tallied 42-10-5, returning one interception for a
touchdown vs. Arizona State. Also had one
forced fumble.
Positives: Very good acceleration and top-end
speed to carry receivers deep. Has stepped up in
the clutch and made some key plays (see Texas
Tech game). Moves fluidly. Shows good awareness in pass coverage. Can sit and squat on
routes and play multiple receivers. Makes good
decisions and shows good football intelligence.
Is tough and will play through injuries. Catches
the ball well (14 career interceptions). Has kickreturn experience.
Negatives: Very undersized. Durability is a
question. Has missed significant time with
injuries wrist injuries in 03 and 05 and foot
injury in 07. Shows some concentration lapses
in coverage. Not a strong tackler. Plays onehanded and is affected by his wrist injuries.
Does not handle blockers well. Can be overwhelmed by bigger receivers. Not a strong tackler and tends to dive for the ankles.
Summary: Productive college corner could be
undone by his lack of size and questionable
durability at the next level. Could fill a role as a
nickel defender and kick returner but might be
too fragile to hold a full-time job.

CB ALTON

WIDEMON

(5-10, 180, 4.5 E) BAYLOR

Notes: Attended Tulane as a true freshman in


2003 and registered 16 tackles, three pass
breakups and one interception plus one blocked
kick. Transferred to Baylor in 04 and sat out in
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compliance with NCAA transfer regulations.
Appeared in 10-of-11 games at cornerback in
05, missing the Oklahoma contest with a
strained hamstring. Totaled 13-3-2 and one
forced fumble. Moved to rover and started 5-of12 games in a rotation in 06, compiling 20-2
and two fumble recoveries. Started all 12 games
at cornerback in 07, tallying 39-7-1 and one
tackle for loss. Also returned one kickoff for 13
yards.
Positives: Is very naturally athletic and can
burst out of his breaks when he sees it. Very
strong pound-for-pound.
Negatives: Has no instincts or feel for cornerback and plays like a deer in headlights. Too
often late to react to the thrown ball. Does not
play with confidence. Not tough.
Summary: Has the physical ability to play in
the pros but lacks the toughness, instincts and
confidence needed at cornerback and will need
to be molded.

CB JONATHAN

WILHITE

first in the conference in interceptions. Missed


Howard game with a sprained ankle. Compiled
75-8-6 and one blocked kick in 06, leading the
team in tackles and ranking first in conference
and third in D-IAA in interceptions. Started 10of-11 games in 07, amassing 77-4-2 and four
tackles for losses. Also returned three punts for
10 yards (3.3-yard average) and seven kickoffs
for 131 yards (18.7).
Positives: Body beautiful and looks every bit
the part. Natural athlete. Shows good leaping
ability to go up and play the ball in the air. Good
hands.
Negatives: Lacks speed and burst to get over
the top. Freelances too much and tends to roam
the field instead of taking care of his responsibilities. Bites on play action. Average instincts and
cover skills. Too choppy and unrefined in his
pedal. Rounds out of breaks. Inconsistent tackler.
Summary: Raw, small-school prospect with
good size and enough athletic ability to warrant
a look in a camp.

(5-912, 185, 4.51) AUBURN

CB JACK

Notes: Attended Butler County Community


College (Kan.) from 2003-04, earning National
Junior College All-American honors. Enrolled at
Auburn in 2005 and started 7-of-12 games, racking up 47 tackles, eight pass breakups and one
interception. Started 10-of-13 games in which he
played in 06 at right cornerback and registered
24-5-0 with one forced fumble. Missed the Cotton Bowl vs. Nebraska with a torn right meniscus. Started 6-of-12 games in 07 at corner (two)
and as a nickel defender (four), totaling 30-2-2
with one sack and one fumble recovery. Chose
not to participate in agility drills at the Combine.
Positives: Good short-area burst. Has lined up
both in the slot and outside and makes good
adjustments. Plays with toughness and good
awareness. Good movement skills fluid in his
hips and can flip, turn and transition easily to run
with receivers. Good footwork. Shows the agility and speed to recover when he gets out of position. Plays the ball well in the air.
Negatives: Very undersized. Injury history
must be evaluated has suffered shoulder, knee
and hamstring injuries. Allows too much cushion. Does not explode out of breaks. Has zero
ball skills does not get his hands on a lot of
balls. Has stone hands has three career picks.
Is not a strong tackler. Very average work ethic.
Summary: Short, fluid, instinctive zone corner
who could compete for a job as a nickel- and
dime-package defender.

(5-9, 186, 4.51) KENT STATE

FS BOBBIE

WILLIAMS

(6-018, 214, 4.6e) BETHUNE-COOKMAN

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Started 5-of-10


games in 04 and posted 58 tackles, one pass
breakup and one interception. Earned All-Mid
Eastern Athletic Conference first-team accolades after starting 9-of-10 games in which he
played in 05 and amassing 52-13-6, ranking
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WILLIAMS

Notes: Redshirted in 2003. Started 7-of-10


games in which he played at boundary cornerback in 04, compiling 27 tackles, four pass
breakups and two interceptions, including a 99yard TD return against Iowa. Started all 11
games in 05, tallying 63-9-4 and adding one
forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Started
10-of-12 games in 06, registering 62-8-4 and
five forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.
Started all 11 games in which he played in 07,
missing the Temple game with a shoulder injury.
Tallied 93-11-3 with 612 tackles for loss, two
fumble recoveries and one fumble forced. Also
returned four kickoffs for 94 yards (23.5-yard
average).
Positives: Very well put together for as little
as he is and has long arms for his size. Shows
quickness, burst and the speed to track receivers
downfield. Good athletic ability and recovery
speed. Plays the ball well in the air. Very strong
pound-for-pound and plays bigger than his size.
Very good run defender will hit with force.
Highly competitive. Great work ethic.
Negatives: Too undersized lacks height
and bulk. Limited experience in man coverage.
Does not use his hands well at the line disrupting and re-routing receivers. Shows some tightness in his movement and is overly muscular.
Summary: Those who did not evaluate him as
a junior when he was healthy will severely
undergrade his abilities. Showed the toughness
to play through injury much of the season, and
natural instincts and burst were not as evident.
Could be best in a zone scheme.

FS ROGER

WILLIAMS

(5-1112, 198, 4.55e) FLORIDA STATE

Notes: Sat out a year after high school. Redshirted in 2003 at strong safety. Saw action in all

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12 games in 04 as a reserve free safety and
recorded 24 tackles, one pass defended and one
interception. Was limited in the spring after having surgery to repair a torn meniscus. Started 3of-13 games in 05 vs. Maryland, Florida and
Virginia Tech, splitting time with Cowboys 06
fifth-round pick Pat Watkins. Finished with 392-1 with one sack and two forced fumbles, both
vs. Virginia Tech in the ACC championship
game. Sat out in the spring after having surgery
on his left shoulder. In 06, started 13 games and
compiled 67-5-4, leading the team in interceptions. Started all 13 games in 07, collecting 752-1 with one forced fumble and one sack.
Positives: Shows enough athletic ability and
range to cover the deep middle. Moves fluidly
with good body control. Has passion for the
game.
Negatives: Not physical. Average coverage
instincts and ball skills. Shows little awareness.
Gave up too many big plays. Marginal tackler.
Durability is a major concern has a history of
shoulder and knee injuries and is not built to
withstand contact. The game does not come natural to him, and he could struggle with complex
game plans.
Summary: Natural athleticism and work
habits could give him a chance in a camp, but
questions about tackling, instincts and durability
could be restricting.

CB TRAE

WILLIAMS

(5-9, 193, 4.53) SOUTH FLORIDA

Notes: Also played running back as a prep,


amassing 1,355 rushing yards and a schoolrecord 22 touchdowns as a senior. Redshirted as
a running back in 2003. Converted to cornerback
in 04 and started 8-of-11 games, registering 22
tackles and one interception returned 37 yards
for a TD against Tennessee Tech and returned
nine kickoffs for 197 yards (21.9-yard average).
Started 11-of-12 games at left cornerback in 05,
giving way to DJuan Brown on Senior Night
against West Virginia, and posted 39 tackles,
three pass breakups and two interceptions and
returned kickoffs 3-63-0 (21.0). In 06, started
all 13 games at left corner, securing 49-9-7 and
one blocked kick and returned kicks 3-40 (13.3)
and punts 1-13. Started all 13 games in 07, tallying 55-11-6 with three interceptions returned
for touchdowns. Returned one kickoff for zero
yards. Did not bench at Combine because of a
right AC sprain.
Positives: Has excellent ball skills and outstanding hands left USF as schools career
leader in interceptions (16). Takes nice angles to
cut off receivers and plays the ball. Good hips
and feet. Solid character. Hard worker.
Negatives: Average athlete. Lacks the strength
to press and re-route receivers. Submarines
when he is run at and is not quick to support.
Questionable top-end speed gives up too
much cushion and struggles to keep stride with
fast receivers. Plays small. Loses leverage on

outside runs. Not a strong tackler and stays in his


pedal when the ball is run at him to avoid contact.
Summary: Finished the season very strong
and has the quick feet, fluid hips and natural
cover skills to be effective in a zone scheme.

CB-RS BRIAN

WITHERSPOON

(5-938, 170, 4.22) STILLMAN (ALA.)

Notes: Attended Alabama State in 2003 but


did not play football. Transferred to Stillman in
04 and started 5-of-10 games at cornerback and
also returned 13 kicks for 354 yards (27.2-yard
average) and one touchdown. Started all 10 in
05, totaling 15 tackles, six pass breakups and
three interceptions, including a 99-yard return
for a TD. Also returned seven kickoffs for 263
yards (37.6-yard average) and two TDs. Played
on the baseball team as well. Started three games
in 06, recording three interceptions before suffering a season-ending broken left wrist. Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference track and
field champion in the 100-meter and 200-meter
dashes and was named a Division II Track AllAmerican. Started all 11 games in 07, collecting 31-7-2. Returned kicks 14-388-1 (27.7),
punts 14-153-1 (10.9) and rushed 2-17 (8.5).
Positives: Has rare timed speed and can carry
receivers down the field. Can shadow and mirror
receivers. Terrific recovery speed when he gets
out of position. Plays the ball in the air and will
climb the ladder to get it. Fields the ball cleanly
and shows some natural instincts, run vision and
top-end speed to go the distance.
Negatives: Rail-thin. Poor size and strength.
Does not play physical or show interest in tackling. Not instinctive and plays with little awareness. Could use some reps to grasp concepts.
Summary: Raw, small-school track athlete
with the pure speed to warrant a camp invitation.
Best chance could come as a returner.

SS D.J.

WOLFE

(5-1118, 207, 4.64) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Amassed 357 carries for 2,974 yards


and 39 touchdowns (8.3-yard average) as a prep
running back. Also lettered in track and field,
finishing fourth in the long jump and anchoring
a 4x100-meter relay team that finished second in
the state. Appeared in all 13 games at running
back as a true freshman in 2004 and rushed 25107-0 (4.3). In 05, converted to cornerback and
started 11-of-12 games, tallying 65 tackles, 10
pass breakups and two interceptions, including a
65-yard return for a TD against Kansas. Also
had two forced fumbles. Started 3-of-14 games
in 06 but eventually lost the starting job to
junior Lendy Holmes and finished with 18-3-1.
Moved from cornerback to strong safety prior to
the 07 season and started all 14 games in 07,
totaling 87-8-4 plus five tackles for loss and two
fumble recoveries. Did not do bench press at the
Combine because of right shoulder strain.
Positives: Very smart. Has a feel for zones.
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Moves fluidly and can shadow receivers in his
area. Shows enough quickness to break on the
ball. Solid, reliable tackler who can drop into the
box and secure tackles in the open field. Produced some big plays in the clutch (see Iowa
State goal-line interception). Natural catcher.
Good work ethic. Plays through injuries.
Negatives: Average athlete. Still raw and
learning the position. Lacks great burst and
range and can be late to come off spots. Can be
beaten down the field and mismatched if isolated in man coverage. Lacks the short-area burst to
recover when he gets out of position. Lacks confidence to play on an island. Doesnt show great
awareness. Average ball skills. Not a big hitter.
Summary: Converted cornerback who is still
finding his way at safety but did show enough
promise as a senior to continue developing as a
backup box safety. Average Combine performance plus lack of foot speed and athletic ability could limit his value.

SS-PR TOM

ZBIKOWSKI

(5-1114, 211, 4.52) NOTRE DAME

Notes: Nationally ranked as a Golden Gloves


boxer, compiling an amateur record of 75-15.
Made his pro boxing debut in June of 2006 and
knocked out Robert Bell in 49 seconds at Madison Square Garden. Named a USA Today firstteam All-American as a prep and also played
quarterback and holds several of his high
schools career football records, including points
scored, touchdowns and rushing yards. Also set
11 high-school track records. Redshirted in 03.
Immediately won the SS spot in 04, starting all
11 games and tallying 70 tackles, one pass
breakup and one interception plus two forced
fumbles and one fumble recovery. Earned thirdteam All-America (AP) honors in 05 after starting all 12 games. Compiled 71-9-5 with one
forced fumble and returned 27 punts for 379
yards (14.0-yard average) and two touchdowns
a 60-yarder vs. USC and a 78-yarder vs. Tennessee. Also returned an interception 31 yards
for a touchdown vs. Tennessee and another for
an 83-yard score vs. BYU. Started 12 games in
06, compiling 79-2-0 with one forced fumble
and one fumble recovery. Also returned kicks 5107 (21.4) and punts 16-144-1 (9.0), including a
52-yard punt return for a touchdown against
North Carolina. Did not play vs. Stanford
because of a neck stinger. Was named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award given to the
nations best defensive back. Had intended to
declare early for 07 draft but decided to return
to school after receiving a mid-round grade from
the NFLs advisory panel. Started all 12 games
in 07, amassing 80-3-2 with three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries and returning
punts 23-234 (10.2). Also rushed three times for
four yards. Did not participate in agility drills
because of tightness in left hamstring.
Positives: Very physically and mentally
tough. Has a swagger and plays with confidence.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Good football temperament. Very strong and hits


with some authority. Shows nice balance working through traffic. Plays the ball well in front of
him. Shows very good zone awareness and
clings to receivers entering his area. Outstanding
worker. Is not intimidated by anyone and does
not back down from a challenge. Extremely
competitive. Shows good balance, vision and
run strength as a punt returner.
Negatives: Does not play to timed speed.
Lacks foot quickness to consistently get over the
top and play the deep ball too often gets beaten deep. Too tightly wound and stiff. Must do a
better job of wrapping up and securing ballcarriers. Falls off too many tackles in the open field.
Has short arms and gets stuck on blocks. Not a
sudden mover. Not nifty or elusive as a returner.
Has a brash, cocky, Chicago-tough demeanor,
thinks hes better than he is and could rub some
people the wrong way.
Summary: Could bring attitude and toughness
to a secondary, contribute as a punt returner and
compete for a starting job in the box. However,
he is tightly wound, lacks great functional speed
and deep range and could be exposed if he is
asked to do too much. Similar to Colts 2005
fourth-round pick Matt Giordano.

CB JONATHAN

ZENON

(5-1134, 191, 4.64) LSU

Notes: Cousin of former LSU safety Jesse


Daniels and of former LSU and Houston Texans
RB Domanick Williams (formerly Davis). Redshirted in 2003. Saw action in three games as a
reserve in 04 and posted two tackles. Started 4of-11 games he played in 05 as a nickel and
dime defender and finished with 17 tackles, four
pass breakups and two interceptions. Started all
13 games at left cornerback in 06 despite suffering a concussion against Auburn. Logged 2716-4 and returned two interceptions for scores
against Louisiana-Lafayette and Arizona,
respectively. Incurred a concussion vs. Alabama
but did not miss time. Started all 14 games in
07, collecting 45-9-3, including an 18-yard
interception return for a touchdown in the SEC
championship game vs. Tennessee. Also had one
forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Injured
his left knee during positional skills workout at
the Combine.
Positives: Good body length. Plays smart and
shows coverage awareness in zones to switch off
receivers and jump routes in front of him. Nice
pattern awareness.
Negatives: Average athlete. Lacks functional
strength to press receivers at the line. Lacks the
foot speed to carry receivers downfield. Too
tight in the hips. Marginal transitional quickness
too often gets caught off-balance. Marginal
worker.
Summary: Instinctive zone corner who could
compete for a job in a camp. Size, speed and
strength deficiencies could be difficult to overcome.

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SPECIALISTS
BROOKS

(6-014, 204, 4.9e) GEORGIA TECH

Notes: Mentored in high school by legendary


punter Ray Guy, namesake for the college football award given to the nations best punter. Also
lettered in basketball as a prep. Played for Georgia Military Academy from 2004-05 and averaged nearly 40 yards per punt over two seasons.
Transferred to Georgia Tech in 06 and punted 79
times for a 45.2-yard average (42.0 net). Pinned
35 punts (44 percent) inside the 20-yard line, 27
punts (34 percent) carried at least 50 yards, and
seven went at least 60 yards. Won the Ray Guy
Award as the nations best punter in 07 after
punting 65 times for a 45.1-yard average. Only
19-of-65 punts were returned, and 33 were
downed inside the 20.
Positives: Catches the ball easily with soft
hands. Gets the ball off very quickly and has not
had a punt blocked. Has a live, steady leg ball
explodes off his foot. Outstanding hang time.
Can boom it high and place it with accuracy. Has
shown he can handle pressure and poor weather.
Blends in the locker room. Showed great precision and placement at the Senior Bowl.
Negatives: Could become more consistent
with placement.
Summary: A very consistent two-step punter
who can do everything a team asks and who
upgrades a teams punting unit immediately.
Could be drafted in the middle rounds.

LS TIM

BUGG

(6-014, 257, 5.16) INDIANA

Notes: Also lettered in golf and rugby in high


school. Walked on and redshirted in 2003. Did
not see action in 04. Took over the long-snapping duties for six games in 05 before tearing
the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and
missing the final four games. Resumed duties in
06 for all 12 games. Played in all 13 games in
07, snapping on punts, field goals and PATs.
Positives: Works hard and takes his craft very
seriously. Can zip the ball back with high velocity consistently snaps under the .70-second
mark. Is very accurate down the middle. Handles
long and short snaps. Shows no hitch and fires it
back with a tight spiral.
Negatives: Short. Marginal athlete. Struggles
to tackle in the open field. Snaps the ball a bit
low at times. Less accurate with short-snapping.
Does not play any other position.
Summary: A very accurate long- and shortsnapper who can zip it with high velocity.

PK ART

CARMODY

(5-858, 177, 5.29) LOUISVILLE

Notes: Nickname is Art-o-matic. Also let-

tered in baseball as a prep. As a true freshman in


2004, converted 12-of-15 field-goal attempts,
including a long of 42 yards, and connected on
all 77 PATs, setting the NCAA record for consecutive conversions. In 05, hit 14-of-16 FG
attempts, including 5-of-5 between 40-49 yards,
and made 63-of-65 PATs. Received the Lou
Groza Award (nations best placekicker) in 06
after connecting on 21-of-25 FG attempts, and
hitting all eight kicks under 30 yards and all five
kicks over 40 yards, highlighted by a 51-yard
long. Also converted all 60 PATs. Had one kick
blocked. Also set the school record with 335
career points despite playing with a bulging disc.
Hit 13-of-17 FG attempts with a long of 44 and
all 53 PATs in 07. Had two attempts blocked.
Set the NCAA career record for most points by
a kicker (433).
Positives: Most productive kicker in NCAA
history. Good leg speed and snap-through. Very
quick delivery. Excellent short-to-intermediate
accuracy and is consistent inside 50 yards. Has
shown he can handle pressure nailed the
game-winning 33-yard field goal to beat Rutgers in the season finale. Works hard at his
craft.
Negatives: Very small. Does not have great
range outside 50 yards and rarely has been used
to try beyond the mark. Tends to slice the ball.
Does not handle kickoffs. Average athlete.
Summary: A tough-minded, left-footed, accurate kicker whose lack of overall leg strength
and inability to handle kickoffs could make it
more difficult for him to earn a roster spot.

PK BRANDON

COUTU

(5-11, 183, 5.0e) GEORGIA

Notes: Also lettered in soccer as a prep. Redshirted in 2003. Handled kickoff duties most of
the 04 season and converted 2-of-3 field-goal
attempts with a long of 44 and hit all three PAT
attempts. Connected on 23-of-29 field goals in
05 with a long of 58 and converted all 45 PATs.
Played the first five games in 06 before tearing
his right hamstring and missing the rest of the
season. Finished 10-of-11 on field goals with a
long of 55 and hit all 17 PATs. Only miss came
from beyond 50 yards. Played in all 13 games in
07, hitting 18-of-23 field goals (long of 52
yards) and all 49 extra-point attempts. Was 10of-10 on field goals of 39 yards or less. Averaged 59 yards on 67 kickoffs with one touchback.
Positives: Excellent range. Shows the leg
strength to drive the ball on FG attempts beyond
50 yards. Also can kick off. Good height, lift and
trajectory. Mentally tough and is calm under
pressure. Handles the elements well.
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Negatives: Lingering hamstring concerns
missed part of the 06 season with a torn hamstring and sat out the second half vs. Georgia
Tech in 07 with a hamstring injury. Accuracy
wanes beyond 50 yards he has made only 6of-12 career attempts and does not get great distance on kickoffs.
Summary: He has impressive leg speed to
handle short- and long-range FG attempts and
could compete for a job in camp.

P MIKE DRAGOSAVICH

SPECIALISTS

(6-512, 212, 4.94) NORTH DAKOTA STATE

Notes: Also lettered in baseball as a prep.


Redshirted in 2003. Punted 54 times in 04 for a
41.3-yard average with a long of 63 yards and
pinned 16 punts inside the 20-yard line. In 05,
totaled 47-46.5-L79-20. In 06, booted 30-46.2L67-14. Played 11 games in 07, booting 2745.4-L70-11. Had one punt blocked. Averaged a
game-record 58 yards on three punts at the
Senior Bowl.
Positives: Fields the ball cleanly. Has great
length and can rocket the ball off his foot.
Dropped some long bombs at the Senior Bowl,
including a 68-yard punt and a bowl-record 69yarder. Handles pressure well. Is a willing tackler.
Negatives: Needs to hasten delivery and
shorten stride. Will hit the ball off the side of
his foot and struggle to place it with precision.
Summary: Lanky, long-levered, experienced
punter who really can drill it deep but needs to
continue to work on placement.

PK GARRETT

HARTLEY

SPECIALISTS

(5-812, 200, 5.0e) OKLAHOMA

Notes: Set a national record for points in a


career by a kicker as a prep. Played the final
three games as a true freshman in 2004, overtaking the incumbent, junior Trey DiCarlo, and
connecting on his one field-goal attempt and all
12 PATs. In 05, converted 14-of-22 FG attempts
with a long of 52 yards and hit on 37-of-38
PATs. In 06, connected on 19-of-20 FG
attempts, including all 15 kicks under 40 yards
and 4-of-5 kicks over 40 yards, including a 46yard long. Also nailed 49-of-50 PATs. In 07, hit
13-of-15 FG attempts, including all three
beyond 40 yards (long of 53) and 71-of-76 extra
points. Averaged 66.8 yards on 104 kickoffs.
Positives: Shows much-improved longrange accuracy over his final two seasons,
he made 7-of-8 kicks over 40 yards. Showed a
lot of pop in his leg at the East-West Shrine
game and hit three FG attempts outside of 50 in
practice, with a long of 58. Has good leg
strength to handle kickoffs and consistently
puts the ball through the endzone. Hangs the
ball high on kickoffs.
Negatives: Is very short and punches the ball
with his leg instead of exploding through it.
Missed five extra-point attempts as a senior.
Must prove he can make kicks beyond 50 yards
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

consistently only three career attempts in live


situations. Not a great worker.
Summary: Impressed at the East-West Shrine
game and has the leg strength to contribute on
both kickoffs and field goals.

PK STEVEN

HAUSCHKA

(6-112, 185, 4.9 E) NORTH CAROLINA STATE

Notes: Took up football in his sophomore


year at Middlebury (Vt.) College after playing
junior-varsity soccer as a freshman. Appeared in
7-of-8 games in 2004, converting 6-of-10 fieldgoal attempts including 1-of-4 attempts
beyond 40 yards and 11-of-12 PATs. Also
punted 46 times for 1,706 yards (37.1-yard average), with a long of 55 yards and pinned 13 balls
inside the 20-yard line. Played in all eight games
in 05, hitting on 4-of-6 attempts (one of which
was blocked) including 1-of-2 beyond 40
yards and 15-of-18 PATs. Also punted 26
times for 853 yards (32.8) with a long of 46
yards and pinned seven balls inside the 20-yard
line. Appeared in all eight games in 06, connecting on 10-of-12 FG attempts including 9of-10 under 40 yards and 9-of-10 PATs. Also
punted 52 times for 1,969 yards (37.9) with a
long of 72 yards and pinned 17 balls inside the
20-yard line. Transferred to North Carolina State
in 07 and hit 16-of-18 FG attempts (long of 49)
and all 25 PATs. Also averaged 63.5 yards on 57
kickoffs with 12 touchbacks.
Positives: Very good long accuracy hit all
eight attempts beyond 40 yards as a senior.
Made excellent year-to-year improvement.
Takes a very consistent approach and has a
smooth stroke and follow-through. Gets the ball
off very quickly one of the fastest get-offs
scouts have seen. Good fundamentals. Can handle kickoffs. Good size and athleticism. Serves
as the holder. Hit game-winner in overtime vs.
Miami (Fla.).
Negatives: Has marginal strength. Too deliberate in his steps. Missed two kicks in November
and could be affected by the cold.
Summary: A soccer-style kicker with good
long-distance range, a consistent approach and
ice in his veins to come through in the clutch.
Should win a job right away.

K-KO-P SHANE

LONGEST

(5-10, 177, 5.0e) ST. XAVIER (ILL.)

Notes: Also lettered in basketball and baseball as a prep and has continued to play baseball
in college. Converted 2-of-7 field-goal attempts
and 14-of-16 extra-point attempts as a true
freshman in 04. Hit 10-of-17 FG attempts with
a long of 52 and 49-of-51 PATs in 05. Connected on 15-of-18 FG attempts with a long of
47, including all seven between 40-49, and 45of-47 PATs in 06. In 07, hit 27-of-37 field
goals (long of 55 yards) and 47-of-48 PATs.
Also punted 47 times for 2,032 yards (43.2-yard
average) with a long of 75 yards. Had 13 punts
downed inside the 20. Averaged 59.3 yards on

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87 kickoffs with 20 touchbacks.
Positives: Good athlete. Shows the leg
strength to drive the ball beyond 50 yards and
has nailed a 70-yarder in practice. Can boom the
ball on kickoffs. Offers versatility and experience as a punter.
Negatives: Accuracy wanes on long-distance
kicks hit only 6-of-13 attempts between 4049 yards and 2-of-4 kicks beyond 50 yards as a
senior. Big fish in a small pond will have to
adjust to pressure on the big stage.
Summary: Jack of all trades, master of none.
His best shot will come as a placekicker, but he
could bring added value as a kickoff specialist
and emergency punter. His leg strength should
warrant a camp invitation.

PK-KO TAYLOR

MEHLHAFF

(5-1038, 183, 5.0e) WISCONSIN

Notes: South Dakotas 2003 Gatorade Player


of the Year who also lettered in football, hockey
and track as a prep. Served as the kickoff specialist as a true freshman in 2004, resulting in
18-of-53 kickoffs going for touchbacks and an
average of 61.6 yards per kickoff. Handled all
placekicking duties in 05, hitting 14-of-20
field-goal attempts (70.0 percent) with a long of
46 yards and converted 56-of-58 PATs. Nailed
15-of-20 FGs with a long of 52 in 06 and converted all 47 PATs. Played in all 13 games in 07,
hitting 21-of-25 field goals (long of 51 yards)
and 42-of-43 extra points. Averaged 66.7 yards
on 77 kickoffs with 27 touchbacks.
Positives: Gets good lift and rise. Has handled
the elements. Can drill the ball through the
uprights on kickoffs. Four-sport high school athlete. Works at his craft.
Negatives: Has a slow approach and could
hasten his delivery. Has shown he can be rattled
on the road by hostile environments.
Summary: A left-footed, soccer-style kicker
who could bring the most value as a kickoff specialist.

P TIM

REYER

(6-0, 205, 5.11) KANSAS STATE

Notes: Three-year letterwinner in high


school. In 04, appeared in 10 games, punting 36
times for 1,526 yards (42.4-yard average) with a
long punt of 71 yards vs. Colorado. In 05, punted in all 11 games, amassing 65-2,625-40.3-L65
with 18 punts downed inside the 20 and only five
touchbacks. Appeared in all 13 games in 06,
kicking 61-2,566-42.1-L65. Earned first-team
All-Big 12 honors in 07 after punting 58-2,58344.5-L61 with 22 attempts downed inside the 20.
Positives: Good field-ratio punter gets
good hang time and does not outkick his coverage. Good placement inside the 10-yard-line and
can hit the coffin corner. Consistent approach.
Could serve as an emergency kicker. Responds
under pressure.
Negatives: Too erratic. Average get-off times.
Does not consistently hit it squarely and will

shank some punts. Needs to speed up his


approach. Lots of yards come on rolls.
Summary: A four-year starter who should
warrant a chance in an NFL camp.

LS TYLER

SCHMITT

(6-214, 231, 4.96) SAN DIEGO STATE

Notes: All-state defensive end in high school


in Arizona. Won the long-snapping job in 04
and kept the job for all four college seasons.
Played in all 12 games in 07, notching six tackles (five solo).
Positives: Very experienced four-year starter.
Has played linebacker, showing he could break
down and tackle in space. Is athletic enough to
be a factor in coverage. Good ball placement
and delivery and has been very accurate. Can
rifle the ball back at high velocity and has consistently clocked at less than .60 seconds.
Negatives: Lacks the mass to anchor and handle pressure. Cannot contribute at any other position.
Summary: A very consistent performer who
could earn a starting job and perform for a long
time.

PK ALEXIS

SERNA

(5-612, 170, 4.80e) OREGON STATE

Notes: Also lettered in soccer and track as a


prep. Walked-on and redshirted in 2003. Earned
the starting job as a walk-on in 04 and connected on 17-of-20 field-goal attempts with a long of
55. Also converted 29-of-32 PATs. Missed all
three PATs in a season-opening loss to LSU but
rebounded to hit 29 consecutive PATs. As a
scholarship recipient in 05, won the Lou Groza
Award after making 23-of-28 FG attempts with
a long of 47 and nailed all 32 PATs. Connected
on all six FG attempts against Washington to tie
the conference record for field goals made in a
game, and set school records with 15 consecutive conversions and 23 field goals made in a
season. In 06, hit on 22-of-29 FG attempts,
including 4-of-6 attempts beyond 50 yards with
a long of 58 and connected on all 45 PATs. In
07, hit 18-of-27 field goals (long of 52 yards).
Had one kick blocked. Punted 81 times for 2,866
yards (35.4-yard average) with 19 punts downed
inside the 20. Had one punt blocked. Kicked off
68 times for 4,166 yards (61.0-yard average)
with two touchbacks.
Positives: Good leg strength. Comfortable
beyond 50 yards has made 7-of-13 career
attempts. Very experienced kicking in the elements. Quick to and through the ball. Handled
punts as a senior and could serve as an emergency punter.
Negatives: Very undersized. His confidence
must be evaluated he missed five of his final
seven FG attempts and has gone through some
slumps. Too streaky and inconsistent.
Summary: More consistency and confidence
are the keys.
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DRAFT NEEDS
This section addresses each teams draft needs
as of presstime (March 5). As a result of free-agent
moves, needs for some teams could change before
the draft.

AFC EAST

DRAFT NEEDS

BUFFALO BILLS
Quarterbacks Second-year pro Trent
Edwards is now firmly entrenched as the quarterback of the future. In the likely situation J.P. Losman is granted his wish to be traded, the Bills could
be looking for a veteran backup.
Running backs Marshawn Lynch was outstanding as a rookie in 2007, proving fully capable
of carrying the ball 20-plus times per game. None
of the backups inspire the ability to be a suitable
featured back if Lynch goes down, but Fred Jackson
showed he is a fine fit in a limited role.
Receivers There is a serious dearth of talent
behind Lee Evans, whos among the top 15 wideouts in the league. The TE corps is similarly meager. Both positions will certainly be addressed this
offseason, and it wouldnt be a surprise to see 2-3
new wide receivers/tight ends on the 2008 roster.
Offensive line The Bills doled out $74 million to bring in OG Derrick Dockery and OT
Langston Walker last offseason, and while they
didnt justify their hefty salaries, they certainly
upgraded the unit. OLT Jason Peters is one of the
best young linemen in the business. Overall, the
O-line is in good shape.
Defensive line DEs Aaron Schobel and Chris
Kelsay fell short of their lofty expectations in 2007,
and coupled with Anthony Hargroves season-long
suspension, end is a concern. Massive ex-Jaguar
Marcus Stroud, who replaces the departed Larry
Tripplett, and emerging force John McCargo headline a solid DT corps.
Linebackers The most solidified defensive
unit. Even though a broken forearm prematurely
ended his rookie season, MLB Paul Posluszny
looks to be a centerpiece for years to come. Freeagent addition Kawika Mitchell (Giants), Angelo
Crowell and Keith Ellison are solid on the outside.
Defensive backs Theres a need to outfit the
secondary with a quality corner opposite Terrence
McGee. After terminating Kiwaukee Thomas contract, the Bills were down to three experienced CBs.
Neither George Wilson nor Ko Simpson is the right
fit at safety next to Donte Whitner.
Special teams P Brian Moorman and PK
Rian Lindell are very good, while returners Roscoe
Parrish (punts) and Terrence McGee (kickoffs) are
the envy of the vast majority of teams.
Summary The need for offensive weapons
headlines the Bills needs. Only of slightly less
importance is getting D-linemen to rush the passer
and shoring up an uninspiring secondary.

MIAMI DOLPHINS
Quarterbacks John Beck flopped in his four
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

starts under center as a rookie but enters the offseason No. 1 on the depth chart. Free-agent addition
Josh McCown (Raiders) could challenge Beck, and
Miami could also look hard for a QB in the draft.
Running backs There are various concerns
regarding the running backs, but theres enough
depth to feel very good about this position. Bill Parcells is said to be smitten with Ronnie Brown, who
will be rehabbing his reconstructed knee throughout the offseason.
Receivers Ted Ginn should be special with
some more seasoning, but theres little else to be
excited about. TE David Martin is just ordinary.
Free-agent additions Ernest Wilford and Sean Ryan
should help at wide receiver and tight end, respectively, but a lot more help is necessary.
Offensive line OT Vernon Carey and C Samson Satele are prototypical O-line cornerstones.
Nobody else can be depended upon. Both 2007
starting OGs are free agents, and OT L.J. Shelton
was released. Free-agent addition Justin Smiley
(Niners) will probably start at one OG spot, but the
O-line remains in serious need of a face lift.
Defensive line Its likely that Miami will
determine whether to use a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme based
on its D-line fortifications. Trade addition Jason
Ferguson (Dallas) will get a shot at replacing the
departed Keith Traylor as the teams two-gap nose
tackle. Rodrique Wright, Vonnie Holliday and Matt
Roth are solid, but the unit needs help via the draft.
Linebackers OLB Joey Porter still has a few
good seasons left in him, especially if the Fins
revert to the 3-4. Channing Crowder is a promising
youngster who can play inside and outside. Freeagent additions Reggie Torbor (Giants) and Charlie
Anderson (Texans) figure in the mix. Injuries and
age had taken their toll on MLB Zach Thomas, who
was released and leaves a big void to fill.
Defensive backs Miamis safeties were decimated by injuries in 2007. The team re-signed talented free agent Yeremiah Bell, a hard-hitting safety whos coming off an Achilles tear, to a one-year
deal. CB Will Allen was tremendous in 2007, but
the rest of the CB stable is underwhelming. Both
corner and safety will see an offseason overhaul.
Special teams Bill Parcells likes what he sees
in P Brandon Fields, a standout as a rookie. PK Jay
Feeley, who made 21-of-23 FG attempts in 2007, is
similarly dependable. Ginn offers explosiveness on
both punt and kickoff returns.
Summary The Dolphins are probably the
neediest team in the league. From receiver and Oline on offense to each of the three defensive levels,
Miami needs an infusion of new faces to be competitive. The good news is theres a host of young,
developmental prospects who could become quality players.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS


Quarterbacks Tom Brady is the standard
bearer for NFL quarterbacks and is coming off a

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record 50-TD campaign. No. 2 QB Matt Cassel, 25,
has faltered in limited chances, giving rise to the
thought that Matt Gutierrez, 23, could become
Bradys primary backup.
Running backs Laurence Maroney began to
realize his immense talent late in the 2007 season.
He has a nice blend of speed and power and is an
adequate receiver. Kevin Faulk is an excellent
receiver and blocker, and Dolphins castoff Sammy
Morris looked great before succumbing to injury at
midseason.
Receivers The leagues best WR corps in
2007 has lost Dont Stallworth, who signed with
Cleveland. But both Randy Moss and Derrick
Gaffney re-signed, and slot receiver Wes Welker
was sensational in his first season in Foxborough.
Offensive line OLT Matt Light, OLG Logan
Mankins and C Dan Koppen were all 2007 Pro
Bowl selections. ORG Steve Neal is also very good.
ORT Nick Kaczur is the unquestioned weak link,
and could be relegated to the bench. While a strong
unit overall, it is vulnerable against speedy defensive fronts.
Defensive line A superb unit. The starting trio
of DEs Ty Warren and Richard Seymour and NT
Vince Wilfork are all Pro Bowl-caliber guys, and all
are signed through at least 2009. DE Jarvis Green
and the linebackers provide much of the pass rush.
Linebackers A concern. Junior Seau and
Tedy Bruschi, who agreed to a new multiyear deal,
arent getting any younger. Rosevelt Colvin was
released, and theres little depth. Mike Vrabel and
Adalius Thomas can play inside and outside, but
theyre also on the wrong side of 30. Bill
Belichicks reluctance to draft linebackers early
will be put to the test.
Defensive backs With the Patriots opting not
to cough up the cash to re-sign Asante Samuel, cornerback went from a moderate to a pressing need.
Four other D-backs are also free agents, and the
Pats arent overly keen on bringing any of them
back. Offseason fortification is necessary.
Special teams The specialists are mostly
ordinary. P Chris Hanson was fine when called
upon, and while PK Stephen Gostkowski doesnt
make anyone forget Adam Vinatieri, hes reliable.
The Pats arent averse to experimenting with
numerous returners.
Summary Its critical that the Patriots bring
in some good, young defensive talent. The LB
corps and secondary are faced with considerable
issues and could be the undoing of this team if not
properly addressed.

NEW YORK JETS


Quarterbacks GM Mike Tannenbaum insists
that hes intent on keeping Chad Pennington on
board to compete with Kellen Clemens. Both quarterbacks come with their concerns, but the position
should be in decent shape if both return. If Penningtons traded, theyll likely bring in a new arm in
case Clemens goes down.
Running backs Thomas Jones didnt
approach expectations in his first season as a Jet.
Brought in from Chicago to be a workhorse after
the Jets employed a committee approach in 2006,
Jones ran for a respectable 1,119 yards, but he

gained just 3.6 yards per carry and scored a single


touchdown. Leon Washington is a home-run threat
as a change-of-pace back.
Receivers Laveranues Coles wants a new
contract, a wish the Jets arent too excited about
granting. Assuming hes back, the receivers are in
the capable hands of Coles and Jerricho Cotchery,
with versatile Brad Smith showing glimpses of
being special. TE Chris Baker lacks top-end speed
but has reliable hands.
Offensive line The left side looks to be in terrific shape, with ex-Steelers OLG Alan Faneca, the
top O-lineman available in free agency, settling in
between OLT DBrickashaw Ferguson and C Nick
Mangold. Neither Ferguson nor Mangold has yet to
live up to his first-round billing, but Faneca figures
to help them blossom. ORG Brandon Moore was
signed to an extension early last season. Free-agent
addition Damien Woody (Lions) should provide an
upgrade at right tackle.
Defensive line With ex-Panther Kris Jenkins
presumably becoming the starting nose tackle, and
Sione Pouha signing a three-year contract extension,
its unclear whats in store for former first-round
pick Dewayne Robertson, a 4-3 D-tackle playing out
of position in the Jets 3-4 scheme. If the Jets are
unable to work out a trade for Robertson, he might
see some time at end, where Kenyon Coleman and
talented but inconsistent Shaun Ellis are planted.
Linebackers Second-year ILB David Harris
is a stellar defensive centerpiece, combining with
versatile free-agent addition Calvin Pace (Cardinals). With OLBs Victor Hobson and Bryan
Thomas no guarantees to return especially Hobson the position could receive some more personnel tweaking. As was widely expected, ILB
Jonathan Vilma was let go (traded to Saints).
Defensive backs With the addition of a solid
cornerback, the Jets could conceivably field the
leagues top secondary. CB Darrelle Revis and S
Kerry Rhodes are two of the leagues brightest
young stars.
Special teams 2005 second-round PK Mike
Nugent has been just ordinary, which is more than
inconsistent P Ben Graham can say for himself.
Leon Washington emerged as one of the leagues
top kick returners in 07 but will face a challenge
from the dynamic Justin Miller, a Pro Bowler in
06, who sat out 07 after knee surgery.
Summary The Jets 4-12 follow-up to their
unexpected 2006 playoff appearance served as a
sobering reminder that theyre not in the NFLs ruling class. After bolstering their O-line via free
agency, they need the most help in the front seven.
Coach Eric Mangini is intent on making the 3-4
defense work, which necessitates a different breed
of D-lineman and linebacker.

AFC NORTH
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Quarterbacks The Ravens starter may not
be on the roster. Steve McNair looked finished last
season before leaving the lineup because of injury.
Kyle Boller hasnt developed like ex-head coach
Brian Billick hoped. Troy Smith flashed some abilw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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ity in two starts at the end of the season, but hes a
long way from being a 16-game starter.
Running backs The Ravens traded three draft
picks for Willis McGahee and were rewarded with
one of the Miami (Fla.) products finest seasons.
The depth behind McGahee is suspect, however. FB
LeRon McClain is a throwback.
Receivers WR Derrick Mason is one of the
AFCs best possession receivers, a major asset to
whomever is behind center. This is a big season for
2005 first-round pick Mark Clayton, whose production waned in 07. TE Todd Heaps 07 season
was shortened by injury. When healthy, hes one of
the best at his position.
Offensive line OLT Jonathan Ogden is
expected to retire. Adam Terry is likely to replace
Ogden, but keep an eye on 2007 supplemental pick
Jared Gaither. OLG Jason Brown is a rising star.
Departed C Mike Flynn could be replaced by Chris
Chester.
Defensive line DT Haloti Ngata played at a
Pro Bowl level last season. NT Kelly Greggs sound
technique, good quickness and unwillingness to
quit on a play have allowed him to thrive in a big
mans league. If DT Trevor Pryce stays healthy, this
group will be that much stronger.
Linebackers ROLB Terrell Suggs is a feared
pass-rusher in the prime of his career. The ILB tandem of Ray Lewis and Bart Scott remains formidable, but Scott didnt make as many impact plays in
07 as he did the previous season.
Defensive backs Outside of FS Ed Reed,
major questions loom. CBs Chris McAlister and
Samari Rolle were slowed by injuries last season,
and the depth behind them failed.
Special teams PK Matt Stover hit 27-of-32
field goals last season, but hes 40 years old. P Sam
Koch is solid. Young RS Yamon Figurs is sprinterfast but still learning his craft.
Summary Quarterback and cornerback
appear to be the Ravens most pressing needs. New
head coach John Harbaugh will have input on Draft
Day, but general manager Ozzie Newsome will
make the final call.

DRAFT NEEDS

CINCINNATI BENGALS
Quarterbacks Carson Palmer is one of the
AFCs best at his position, but he threw a career-high
20 interceptions last season and didnt quite seem on
the same page with his receivers at times. The Bengals do not have a proven backup for Palmer.
Running backs The Bengals havent run the
ball well the last two seasons. There are questions
about Rudi Johnsons future with the club after an
injury-plagued 2007 campaign. Backup Kenny
Watson played well in place of Johnson but is probably best-suited as a third-down back. Kenny Irons,
a 07 second-round pick, missed his rookie season
with a knee injury.
Receivers WR Chad Johnson is unhappy
with the Bengals; whether he can force his way out
of Cincinnati will be a storyline to watch in the offseason. Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh comprise one of the top WR tandems in the game. No.
3 WR Chris Henry is talented but inconsistent, but
he would likely be the player promoted were Johnson to depart. The Bengals use their tight ends priw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

marily as blockers.
Offensive line Big questions here, as age and
injuries appear to be catching up to ORT Willie
Anderson, and OLT Levi Jones has been plagued by
knee issues. The Bengals will likely retain OT-OG
Stacy Andrews after giving him the franchise tag.
Defensive line Free-agent addition Antwan
Odom (Titans) figures to replace Justin Smith
(signed with the Niners). DE Robert Geathers
development may have been stunted by a brief
move to strong-side linebacker; some evaluators
regard him as the Bengals best defensive player.
Linebackers Injuries decimated this position
last season. The Bengals are hoping MLB Ahmad
Brooks develops into a star and defensive leader.
He played only two games last season before suffering a season-ending injury. If he lives up to his
potential, Brooks could be just the playmaker this
group lacks. Expect competition and perhaps some
changes at the OLB spots.
Defensive backs Young CBs Leon Hall and
Johnathan Joseph improved late last season; more
development is expected in 2008. Second-year
safeties Marvin White and Chinedum Ndukwe
could step into the starting lineup. Veteran Madieu
Williams signed with the Vikings.
Special teams PK Shayne Graham is dependable, as is newly re-signed P Kyle Larson. But the
Bengals lack a big-play return threat, and the coverage units struggled last season because of youth
and injuries.
Summary Once again, defense looms as the
primary need on Draft Day. Addressing the front
seven appears to be the biggest priority as Marvin
Lewis enters his sixth season as head coach.

CLEVELAND BROWNS
Quarterbacks What was once a position of
need is now a position of strength thanks to the
emergence of Derek Anderson and the drafting of
Brady Quinn. No. 3 QB Ken Dorsey, who is close
with Quinn, is all but assured of making the roster.
Running backs The Browns re-signed RB
Jamal Lewis after he a solid season in his first year
in Cleveland, but they may still add another runner.
Backups Jason Wright and Jerome Harrison are
solid if unspectacular.
Receivers The Browns have two blue-chip
performers WR Braylon Edwards and TE Kellen
Winslow at this position group. Edwards developed into a star in his third NFL season (his second
removed from a knee injury). Winslow isnt the athlete he was in college, but hes still a marvelous
player. The WR corps was bolstered with the addition of free-agent addition Dont Stallworth (Patriots), who adds legitimate speed and playmaking
ability as the projected No. 2 guy.
Offensive line Years of investing heavily at
this position group paid off when the Browns saw
rookie OLT Joe Thomas develop into a Pro Bowler
and OLG Eric Steinbach play as well as he did in his
first four NFL seasons with Cincinnati. If the Browns
draft a lineman, it could be in the later rounds.
Defensive line Trade additions Shaun Rogers
(Lions) and Corey Williams (Packers) should significantly bolster the line at tackle and end, respectively, but the Browns could further address this

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position group, which was the teams greatest area
of need heading into the offseason.
Linebackers The Browns could use another
pass-rushing OLB to pair with Kamerion Wimbley, but they have lost their first three draft picks
and wouldnt be able to draft one until the second
day, if at all. The young ILB tandem of Leon
Williams and DQwell Jackson showed promise
last season.
Defensive backs The Browns could draft a
cornerback after trading 2007 starter Leigh Bodden
to Detroit. In addition, CB Eric Wright was burned
repeatedly last season, but Wright is only entering
his second season. The safety position is in decent
shape. SS Sean Jones struggled covering tight ends
early in 07 but got it together later in the season.
Special teams RS Joshua Cribbs is as strong
as any player at his position in the game and comes
off a Pro Bowl campaign. P Dave Zastudil and PK
Phil Dawson fare well in poor weather, and Dawson
made some big kicks last season.
Summary The major needs are on defense.
Improvement on that side of the ball could just be
what the Browns need to make the playoffs for the
first time since 2002.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Quarterbacks The Steelers signed Ben
Roethlisberger to a long, lucrative contract extension. Backup Charlie Batch is dependable, but hell
be 34 this December. Dont be surprised if the
Steelers look to draft a backup to groom behind
Roethlisberger.
Running backs The Steelers leaned heavily
on RB Willie Parker last season before he left the
lineup with a season-ending injury in Week 16.
Parker has only been a major part of the Steelers
offense for three seasons, and he is only 27, but the
Steelers might want to distribute more of his workload this season. Backup Najeh Davenport can be
effective in stretches but is not a back to rely on
against top competition, and he has a history of
injuries. Free-agent addition Mewelde Moore
(Vikings) should come in handy.
Receivers Roethlisberger has missed Plaxico
Burress ever since Burress signed with the Giants
after the 2004 season, so the Steelers could look to
add a taller target for the 6-foot-5 passer. The Steelers are expecting improvement from WR Santonio
Holmes in his third NFL season. Hines Ward
remains a master of working the short and intermediate zones. TE Heath Miller is one of the better allaround players at his position.
Offensive line Questions abound for this
group. Pro Bowl OLG Alan Faneca signed with the
Jets. OLT Marvel Smith has been bothered by a
back injury. C Sean Mahan struggled in his first
season in Pittsburgh. ORG Kendall Simmons had
his problems, too, as did ORT Willie Colon. Running room was often scarce, and Roethlisberger too
often was forced to flee from the pocket because of
the line being overrun.
Defensive line NT Casey Hampton is the
headliner at this position group, but he is not coming off his best season. Theres some concern that
DLE Aaron Smith is starting to slow down after
years of unappreciated work in the trenches. The

Steelers, long adept at finding defensive linemen


for their 3-4 scheme, need some young reinforcements up front.
Linebackers ROLB James Harrison made
the Pro Bowl in his first season as a starter, and
young LOLB LaMarr Woodley could soon be a star.
Veteran James Farrior remains one of the games
top 3-4 inside linebackers.
Defensive backs SS Troy Polamalu struggled
to stay healthy last season, and that really hurt this
group down the stretch. The loss of FS Ryan Clark
forced the Steelers to turn to young Anthony Smith,
whose lack of discipline played a major role in losses to the Patriots and Jaguars and got him benched.
The Steelers could be shopping for CB help.
Special teams P Daniel Sepulveda fared well
as a rookie and could be a 10-year solution at the
position. PK Jeff Reed has made a living playing
half of his regular-season games at Heinz Field, so
you know hes tough. The coverage units were a
season-long problem in 07 and will be retooled.
Summary The Steelers draft needs start
along both lines, but dont be surprised if they draft
a DB earlier than expected, what with the struggles
of the secondary in the final weeks of the season.

AFC SOUTH
HOUSTON TEXANS
Quarterbacks The Texans have a strong QB
tandem in Matt Schaub and Sage Rosenfels. Schaub
will be the starter, but Rosenfels could push him if
the ex-Atlanta passer cant stay healthy and/or doesnt make the strides head coach Gary Kubiak wants
him to make in his second season in Houston.
Running backs Ex-Packers RB Ahman
Green battled a knee injury for much of last season.
If hes on the roster this season, hell have to compete for playing time. Plodding Ron Dayne is an
unrestricted free agent; the Texans could bring him
back, but like Green, Dayne is no sure bet to last 16
games. Undrafted rookie Darius Walker will compete for a reserve role.
Receivers WR Andre Johnson is marvelously talented and likely to push for a Pro Bowl spot if
he plays the full season. Kevin Walter has developed into a reliable No. 2 receiver, and second-year
WR Jacoby Jones is the sleeper of the bunch
fast, athletic but in need of a little more work in the
weight room. TE Owen Daniels caught 63 passes in
his second NFL season.
Offensive line While not as much of a concern as it was during QB David Carrs time with the
club, the line could still use a young, athletic left
tackle especially if OLT Charles Spencer, whos
missed much of the last two seasons, cant return to
his past form. ORT Eric Winston has developed
nicely, and OLT Chester Pitts has flashed blue-chip
ability in the past. Center and right guard are question marks.
Defensive line DRE Mario Williams became
a star late in his second season, and young DT
Amobi Okoye could soon join him as a Pro Bowlcaliber player. However, the Texans, for all of their
investment along the defensive line, still have questions at left defensive end and at the defensive tackw w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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le spot opposite Okoye.
Linebackers MLB DeMeco Ryans is the
heart and soul of the defense. WLB Morlon Greenwood is a steadying veteran presence. Young Zach
Diles could push for more playing time if the Texans decide they want more speed in the LB corps.
Free agent addition Kevin Bentley (Seahawks) adds
versatility and depth.
Defensive backs With Dunta Robinson likely
to miss the start of the season as he recovers from
knee and hamstring injuries, the free-agent addition
of Jacques Reeves (Cowboys) provides badly needed CB depth. Safety is also a position of concern and
one that could experience considerable turnover.
Special teams PK Kris Brown has an accurate, strong leg, but P Matt Turk may have a contender for his job. The Texans coverage units are an
annual strength, and they always seem to have a
deep roster of capable returners.
Summary Cornerback is the biggest need,
and it will be no surprise if the Texans address the
position in Round One. Houston could also add a
running back. The Texans traded their secondround pick to Atlanta in the Schaub deal.

lack of size by operating well in space. MLB Gary


Brackett is the best of the bunch, but OLB Freddie
Keiaho is also stout and active. Solid veteran Rob
Morris was released. OLB Clint Session showed
tremendous playmaking ability as a rookie.
Defensive backs NFL Defensive Player of the
Year Bob Sanders hogs the spotlight, but all four
starting D-backs are formidable players. CBs Kelvin
Hayden and Marlin Jackson are adept at playing the
press coverage demanded of them, and S Antoine
Bethea tied for the team lead with four interceptions.
However, unlike at linebacker, theres little depth.
Special teams PK Adam Vinatieri connected
on 23-of-29 FG attempts with a long of only 39
yards in 2007, failing to recapture the touch that
made him a legend in New England. P Hunter
Smith is just average, as are the Colts punt and
kickoff returners.
Summary The Colts are positioned well to
reclaim their perch atop the NFL hierarchy, with
most of their key personnel under contract. However, the teams mantra is to build through the draft
without having to dip into the free-agency pool, and
it would be wise to bolster both lines in April.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Quarterbacks Peyton Manning is one of the


defining quarterbacks of his generation and a Hall
of Fame lock. Furthermore, hes incredibly durable,
having started every game since arriving in the NFL
in 1998. Jim Sorgi is the only other quarterback on
the active roster.
Running backs Third-year pro Joseph Addai
is a perfect fit for the Colts offense. He operates out
of mostly single-back sets, thriving with his speed,
agility and receiving ability. CFL export Kenton
Keith was a revelation, but theres a concern whether
he can handle the load if Addai went down for an
extended period of time. Adding another shifty back
isnt needed but would be a welcome addition.
Receivers Marvin Harrisons absence with a
knee injury in 2007 made clear his value. Without
him, the potency of the passing attack was dramatically reduced. A healthy Harrison gives the Colts a
strong WR trio with Pro Bowler Reggie Wayne and
promising second-year man Anthony Gonzalez. No
other receiver has proven reliable, however. TE
Dallas Clark, who is locked up with a long-term
contract extension, has tremendous receiving value,
too, both off the line and in the slot.
Offensive line They re-signed starting OG
Ryan Lilja, but fellow starter OG Jake Scott is a
free agent and might depart. The OT position is a
concern, as theres no reliable depth. Expect them
to select at least one O-lineman in the draft for
respected OL coach Howard Mudd to mold.
Defensive line The D-line held up remarkably well considering how badly injuries ravaged it.
The tackles are a stout but unheralded group, while
the ends get the recognition on the outside. However, they couldnt muster a consistent pass rush after
stud DE Dwight Freeney went down. Like the Oline, the D-line is sure to see a new face or two in
its 2008 rotation.
Linebackers Their names dont resonate, but
their games do. The Colts linebackers fit the
Tampa-2 scheme perfectly, as they make up for a

Quarterbacks David Garrard was everything


the Jaguars couldve realistically asked for in his
first season as a full-time starter, deftly operating
Dirk Koetters conservative offense. He has all the
tools needed to become an elite quarterback. Free
agent addition Cleo Lemon (Miami) replaces Quinn
Gray, who was uninspiring in a midseason threegame stretch, as Garrards backup.
Running backs Fred Taylor made the first
Pro Bowl of his career in 2007, with his 1,202-yard
season and gaudy 5.4 yards per carry average serving notice that he has plenty of tread left in his 32year-old tires. Maurice Jones-Drew is a tremendous
complement and a superior receiver out of the backfield. With standout FB Greg Jones re-signing, the
offensive backfield is in good hands.
Receivers You have to give the Jags credit for
at least trying to upgrade their receiving corps. A
dangerous deep threat is of paramount importance
if the offense is to open up, and perhaps newcomers
Troy Williamson and Jerry Porter will help fill that
bill with a change of scenery. Former first-round
WRs Matt Jones and Reggie Williams have been
duds, though in fairness to Williams, he did make
some strides in 2007. Free agent Ernest Wilford is
out of the picture. The tight ends are suitable.
Offensive line OTs Tony Pashos and Khalif
Barnes arent anything special, and Barnes carries
around character baggage. The interior O-line was
tinkered with a few times in 2007 before finally settling on a stable trio. OG Maurice Williams filled in
nicely for an injured Chris Naeole, who was cut,
but Williams is likely to leave for a chance to secure
a starting gig elsewhere. Considering a punishing
line is key to the offense, look for them to add 1-2
bodies to the mix.
Defensive line One of the leagues elite Dlines over the past few years took a step backward
in 2007. Partly due to injuries, DTs Marcus Stroud
(traded to Buffalo) and John Henderson werent
their dominating selves, and the ends also failed to

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generate a consistent pass rush. New defensive
coordinator Gregg Williams needs active, penetrating D-linemen for his system, and its a good bet
hell be lobbying to spend an early pick on an end.
Linebackers There has to be considerable
concern over MLB Mike Peterson. Hell be 32 in
June, and injuries have prematurely ended his past
two seasons. Rookie Justin Durant admirably filled
the OLB void when Daryl Smith slid inside, but
theres little depth.
Defensive backs Its a tale of two units in the
Jags defensive backfield. A stout CB corps, led by
Brian Williams and Rashean Mathis, was fortified
by the free-agent addition of Drayton Florence
(Chargers). Its a different story at safety. Impressive interception and tackle numbers masked the
shortcomings of Reggie Nelson and Sammy Knight
in coverage. Knight signed with the Giants, but
theres enough young safety talent for the Jags to
feel OK about the position.
Special teams P Adam Podlesh and PK Josh
Scobee are solid. Jones-Drew has tremendous
return ability.
Summary The Jags are looking for niche players (deep receivers, pass-rush specialists) more than
anything, but these players are nonetheless critical to
the teams ascension to Super Bowl contender.

TENNESSEE TITANS
Quarterbacks Vince Young was a more
accurate passer in his second NFL season than his
first, but it was hard to get excited about much else
he did in 2007. All the same, the Titans wont be
looking for a replacement in this draft. But they
may look for a young quarterback to eventually
replace backup Kerry Collins.
Running backs The Titans spent secondround picks in 2006 (LenDale White) and 07
(Chris Henry) on this position, so dont expect
many major Draft Day moves for another runner.
Receivers The Titans are seeking at least one
receiver after the passing game stalled last season.
Tennessee has plenty of possession receivers, so
look for the Titans to emphasize speed. As a whole,
the WR corps lacks separation ability. Even after
signing free agent Alge Crumpler (Falcons), tight
end could be addressed in the draft, with Ben
Troupe expected to depart in free agency and Ben
Hartsock signing with Atlanta.
Offensive line The Titans could look to bolster their depth at guard; OLG Jacob Bell signed
with the Rams, and ORG Benji Olsons back is a
concern. They may also add a young swing tackle.
Defensive line DT Albert Haynesworth
received the franchise tag from the club, but finding
a young, capable interior lineman to pair with him
must be a priority. With free-agent DEs Antwan
Odom and Travis LaBoy signing with the Bengals
and Cardinals, respectively, the Titans will likely
have to address the end spot early in the draft.
Linebackers The Titans are set at all three
positions, especially now that SLB David Thornton
has returned to the form that made him such a force
in Indianapolis.
Defensive backs CB Pacman Jones sat out
the 2007 season and is unlikely to ever play for the
Titans again. But Tennessee doesnt miss him, not

with Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper comprising a fine CB tandem and Vincent Fuller becoming
a dependable nickel back. Young FS Michael Griffin is a rising star. SS Chris Hope (neck) is expected to play in 2008.
Special teams PK Rob Bironas had a breakthrough 2007 season. For a team that doesnt score
a lot of touchdowns, hes a big-time weapon. P
Craig Hentrich is still effective after all of these
years and can even kick the occasional long field
goal. The Titans were hoping Chris Davis would
provide some punch in the return game, but he
struggled as a rookie.
Summary The inclination is to point to wide
receiver as the top Draft Day need, but the Titans
arent without issues at other positions, particularly
up front. The Titans ruggedness was their calling
card last season, and keeping that intact is as much
a priority as adding weapons in the passing game.

AFC WEST
DENVER BRONCOS
Quarterbacks The Broncos are set with Jay
Cutler as the starter and are happy with Patrick
Ramsey in a backup role. Its very likely the team
will head into the season with just two quarterbacks
on the active roster.
Running backs Coach Mike Shanahan is
always looking for help in the ground game. RB
Selvin Young is not an every-down back, and the
team will add a ball carrier that fits its zone-blocking scheme in the draft or in free agency. Travis
Henry is also expected to compete for carries after
agreeing to restructure his contract.
Receivers The Broncos like WR Brandon
Stokley in the slot, and Brandon Marshall established himself as the No. 1 guy, but Denver will be
in the market for a No. 2 guy. Javon Walker signed
with Oakland and could be replaced by free-agent
addition Keary Colbert (Panthers).
Offensive line The squad will need to fill
holes primarily at left tackle and center. Matt Lepsis, who started at both OT spots for the Broncos
during his long tenure, retired, and C Tom Nalen,
36, may not have much left in the tank.
Defensive line Denver will be looking for a
big body at defensive tackle to bolster its struggling
defensive line. DE John Engelberger signed a new
deal, as did fellow free agent DE Ebenezer Ekuban,
who didnt demand top dollar..
Linebackers D.J. Williams will move to the
weak side, leaving a big void at middle linebacker.
The Broncos were hoping to get a shot at college
junior MLBs like Ohio States James Laurinaitis or
USCs Rey Maualuga, but both opted to stay in
school. With a relatively weak rookie class at inside
linebacker, Denver will probably wait until the later
rounds to address the need. Free-agent addition
Niko Koutouvides (Seahawks) could get a shot at
the starting MLB job.
Defensive backs Adding a safety is one of the
top priorities for the club this offseason. Denver
needs a player with some range to clog up the middle
while its strong pair of cornerbacks patrol the fringe.
Special teams The Broncos have an unsettled
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2007, as a host of once-great players showed signs


of age. Longtime team president Carl Peterson
might be jetting into retirement in the next couple
years, too. Every team claims to want to build
through the draft, but the Chiefs need to do so. A
jolt of youthful energy will go a long way in vaulting K.C. back up the standings.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

DRAFT NEEDS

situation at punter following the release of troubled


P Todd Sauerbrun late last season. Denver could
also use help at return specialist.
Summary In past offseasons, the Broncos have
spent a lot of money on free agents that didnt live up
to expectations. They will look to add players at
defensive tackle, linebacker and safety to rejuvenate
the defense under new coordinator Bob Slowik.

Quarterbacks QB JaMarcus Russell looked


plenty shaky in his first season in limited opportunities, but he is entrenched at the top of the depth
chart. But with Josh McCown signing with Miami,
the Raiders need a backup.
Running backs Some have said the zoneblocking scheme Kiffin implemented could make
any running back successful. RB Justin Fargas will
be the Raiders workhorse next season.
Receivers Owner Al Davis loves speed at this
position, and Oakland needed to add a target for
Russell, especially after Jerry Porter signed with
Jacksonville. Free-agent signee Javon Walker looks
like the No. 1 option heading into training camp.
Offensive line The offensive line was vastly
improved last season, particularly in run-blocking,
but some deficiencies will be addressed in the next
few months. Oakland must find a center of the
future and needs reinforcements at both OT spots.
Free-agent addition Kwame Harris (Niners) could
fill one of those spots
Defensive line The Raiders biggest need is at
defensive tackle now that Warren Sapp has retired.
Oakland finished 31st in the league in rushing yards
allowed last season and could not generate much of
a pass-rush up the middle. The team hopes newly
re-signed Tommy Kelly can move from end to
replace Sapp, but more help is needed.
Linebackers Some depth is needed at linebacker, particularly on the outside. WLB Thomas
Howard and MLB Kirk Morrison team up to form
one of the best young tandems in the league.
Defensive backs Ex-Giant Gibril Wilson
should be an upgrade over Stuart Schweigert at free
safety, but Oakland could still move to select a safety early in the draft. SS Michael Huff has not made
the impact the Raiders expected from him.
Special teams The coverage on special teams
has been poor, so some young LBs and DBs might
help that area. PK Sebastian Janikowski bounced
back to have a strong 2007 campaign, and P Shane
Lechler is probably the best in the game.
Summary Oakland was unable to slow down
the oppositions running game in 2007, which
caused a once-stout defense to deteriorate. Kiffins
plan for the offense appears to be working, but he is
still a few pieces away.

Quarterbacks The Chiefs want to believe


Brodie Croyle is the answer under center, but at this
point, that involves taking a leap of faith. Its more
likely they will trade for a veteran than take a flier
on a passer in the draft, but regardless, Croyle will
have to earn the spot in training camp. Damon
Huard is a long shot to land the starting job.
Running backs Between his holdout last offseason and his rehabilitation from a foot injury this
offseason, Larry Johnson has Chiefs management
frustrated for a second straight year. But his injury
isnt expected to affect him in 2008. Coupled with
Kolby Smiths strong rookie campaign, the backfield is a strength.
Receivers Dwayne Bowe needs help, badly.
The rookie did all he could in 2007 and now needs
another viable target to emerge opposite him to take
the pressure off. Veteran Eddie Kennison was
released, and nobody currently on the roster looks
the part, so expect the Chiefs to nab a pass catcher
early in the draft. TE Tony Gonzalez remains one of
best around, but it wouldnt be premature for the
team to appoint an understudy.
Offensive line A royal mess. Following the
retirement of all-time greats Willie Roaf and Will
Shields in successive years, the O-line was old and
tired in 2007. The Chiefs have shied away from the
hogs recently in the draft, having not invested a first, second- or third-round pick on an O-lineman since
1999. Look for that to trend to come to a halt in April.
Defensive line The Chiefs franchised standout DE Jared Allen, though its believed hell be
skipping town in 2009. With Tamba Hali and talented but raw Turk McBride also in the rotation,
end is a strength for the immediate future. The DT
spot could use some fortification, but its not a
pressing concern.
Linebackers A position of strength. Either
Napoleon Harris or veteran Donnie Edwards is
expected to be flanked by quality free-agent
Demorrio Williams (Falcons) and Derrick Johnson,
a pair of active outside linebackers who operate
well in space. But Edwards will be 35 in April, and
it would behoove the team to add depth.
Defensive backs The CB crew is hurting.
Aging Ty Law was released, and Patrick Surtain is
nearing the end of his decorated career. The safeties
are young and physical but play without discipline.
The nickel and dime packages have been particularly shoddy.
Special teams By signing ex-Cowboys PK
Billy Cundiff to a two-year deal, the Chiefs hope to
have rectified an area that plagued them throughout
2007. Restricted free agent P Dustin Colquitt has
steadily improved. The Chiefs are sorely needing
some more sizzle in the return game.
Summary The Chiefs were a tired bunch in
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OAKLAND RAIDERS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS


Quarterbacks His histrionics on and off the
field draw the ire of many, but Philip Rivers quality play has Chargers brass thinking he is the longterm answer under center. Currently signed through
2009, look for him to agree to an extension before
his contract expires. The re-signing of backup/playoff hero Billy Volek was a prudent move.
Running backs By just about any standard,

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LaDainian Tomlinson is the best back the league
has to offer. He has also proven remarkably
durable, having missed only one regular-season
game in his career. Touted backup Michael Turner
signed with Atlanta, opening the door for diminutive and explosive Darren Sproles to have a bigger
role. Veteran FB Lorenzo Neal was cut in part due
to six-year veteran Andrew Pinnocks emergence.
Receivers In less than a year, this position
evolved from liability to strength, as Vincent Jackson began realizing his potential, and Chris Chambers justified the second-round draft choice the
Bolts parted with to land him. Antonio Gates is the
best pass-catching tight end around. Unless 07
first-round WR Buster Davis fails to pan out,
Rivers passes are in very good hands.
Offensive line The O-line took a small step
backward in 2007. Outside of OLT Marcus
McNeill, its devoid of the type of mauling linemen
you would expect from such a good running team.
Its far from a pressing concern, but its a good bet
the Bolts bring aboard a couple more bodies to
challenge and eventually replace the incumbents.
Defensive line The Chargers would love to
find the heir apparent to NT Jamal Williams, who
turns 32 in April, but its doubtful theyll land such
a player in this draft. The consummate defensive
anchor, Williams injuries are starting to chip away
at his effectiveness. Luis Castillo and Igor Olshansky are capable 3-4 ends, but they are better athletes
than football players.
Linebackers While Shawne Merriman, Shaun
Phillips and Jyles Tucker form an imposing trio on
the outside, the inside spots could be beefed up. The
current crop of inside linebackers are more placeholders than headliners, which the Bolts can get
away with because of the surrounding talent. Adding
former Niner Derek Smith certainly wont hurt.
Defensive backs While the corners waffle
between good and tremendous, the safeties are the
unquestioned weak link of the D. Even though
second-year pro Eric Weddle oozes with potential
hes expected to replace the departed Marlon
McCree in the starting lineup its realistic to see
safety fortifications come early in the draft. With
UFA CB Drayton Florence signing with the Jaguars
after losing his starting job to Antonio Cromartie,
the late rounds could be useful for CB depth.
Special teams Playoff hiccups have some in
San Diego souring on PK Nate Kaeding, whose
solid numbers dont inspire as much confidence as
youd think they would. Darren Sproles is a sparkplug in the return game. P Mike Scifres booms it.
Summary All of the pieces are in place for
the Bolts to make a run at Super Bowl XLIII. No
draftee will need to contribute much in his rookie
year, although depth on the O-line and in the secondary will be welcome additions.

NFC EAST
DALLAS COWBOYS
Quarterbacks Backup Brad Johnson turns
40 in September, and undrafted Richard Bartel
stands to be the third QB, though the team went
only with Johnson and Tony Romo last season and

could do the same in 2008. Dont expect any bigname QBs to be added.
Running backs Julius Jones is likely to have
a new address, and Marion Barber needs some ice
to complement his fire. Look for the team to add a
speed back, maybe in the first few rounds. With
Barber set to hit free agency in 2009 unless a new
deal is struck, the team needs a backup plan.
Receivers With Patrick Crayton expected to
join the starting lineup, the team could use a slot
receiver. The Cowboys like guys such as Sam Hurd
and Miles Austin, and they expect Isaiah Stanback
to be more of a factor. But this unit needs reinforcements, especially with Terry Glenn likely gone.
Offensive line Flozell Adams re-signing
reduces the need at left tackle, but overall depth is a
concern. Dont rule out one of two 2007 draft picks
Doug Free and James Marten factoring in
somewhere.
Defensive line Marcus Spears hasnt played
up to expectations, and Chris Canty is a year from
free agency. And if Jason Hatcher cant become a
full-timer, a sturdy five-technique would qualify
as a team need. The team has a knack for finding
small-school talents, so someone such as Hamptons Kendall Langford might be a mid-round fit.
Linebackers This position is in good shape,
almost across the board. But Bobby Carpenter and
Kevin Burnett have done little to date and might not
be with the team past this season. Veteran free agent
Zach Thomas is a solid addition inside, if hes
healthy.
Defensive backs A top order of business, perhaps at two spots. Nickel CB Jacques Reeves
signed with the Texans, and Anthony Henry might
be better off as a slot guy. Keith Davis is a free
agent, and Roy Williams still struggles in coverage,
so safety also is a need.
Special teams Kicking and punting are in
great hands, and the team has several KR candidates. A punt returner is on the shopping list to prevent Crayton or Terence Newman from having to
handle that, and the coverage units need beefing up.
Summary With two lower first-round picks,
the team has the opportunity to add two immediateimpact players. The temptation to trade up is there,
and Jerry Jones is a free-wheeling trader, but there
should be value at Nos. 22 and 28. Look for corner,
wideout, running back, safety and offensive tackle
to be the spots most likely to be addressed in the
early rounds.

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NEW YORK GIANTS


Quarterbacks Eli Manning has reached the
mountaintop with a Super Bowl title, but the team
would like to get better backups than Jared Lorenzen and Anthony Wright, and that could include a
rookie project.
Running backs There is a wealth of talent at
this position, starting with Brandon Jacobs and
Ahmad Bradshaw, but Derrick Ward is a free agent,
and Reuben Droughns might be cut. A new third or
fourth back could make his way onto the roster, but
the team would like to retain Ward.
Receivers The team survived last season with
Plaxico Burress and Steve Smith chronically hurt,
Sinorice Moss contributing little and Amani
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Toomer approaching his expiration date. Look for
the team to target a young speed wideout early in
the draft. Tight end probably wont be addressed
via the draft, despite the persistent albeit
unfounded Jeremy Shockey trade rumors.
Offensive line Dont be surprised if the team
adds a young tackle to groom. Dave Diehl is not a
textbook left tackle, and ORT Kareem McKenzie is
serviceable, but more youth to push Guy Whimper
and Adam Koets would be wise.
Defensive line There might not be a better
group of young pass rushers in the NFL with Osi
Umenyiora, Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka.
Even if Michael Strahan retires, end is not an issue.
Tackle, however, might need another body.
Linebackers Expect the team to add at least
one backer through the draft after losing starter
Kawika Mitchell, who signed with the Bills, and
reserve Reggie Torbor, who signed with Miami.
Defensive backs If you could point to a weak
spot on this defense, its in the secondary. James
Butler and Michael Johnson are tough but limited,
and Gibril Wilson signed with Oakland, making
safety a need, even after signing free-agent veteran
Sammy Knight. Cornerback is a position that can
continue to improve and get younger.
Special teams The team re-signed P Jeff Feagles and PK Lawrence Tynes. LS Ryan Kuehl will
be gone, but Zak DeOssie and Jay Alford did a nice
job snapping. The return units were OK, though KR
Domenik Hixon was a late-season revelation.
Summary With a Super Bowl title and no
glaring holes on the roster, you could say the Giants
are in fantastic shape to make another run in 2008.
But there are a few key spots, including the secondary, linebacker and at receiver, that could need
immediate help. Also keep an eye on tight end and
safety, where there could be some turnover.

DRAFT NEEDS

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Quarterbacks There doesnt appear to be a
spot on the roster for a young QB, except perhaps
the practice squad, not with Donovan McNabb,
Kevin Kolb and A.J. Feeley. Dont put it past Andy
Reid to take a flier on a West Coast project late in
the draft he has before but dont count on it.
Running backs This is another position of
strength, though Correll Buckhalter is nothing special, and Tony Hunt did little as a rookie. The team
might look to add a classic West Coast fullback in
the Jon Ritchie mold.
Receivers Fans have been clamoring for
upgrades here since Terrell Owens left town. Reid
and Co. continue to say they like what they have. In
the middle somewhere is reality. If the team can
find a smart, quick receiver, especially one with
kick-return ability, it might be willing to take one
high in the draft. Tight end appears solid with L.J.
Smith and Brent Celek, but a third could be drafted.
Offensive line The Eagles love to stockpile
young talent here and groom it, and with OTs
William Thomas and Jon Runyan approaching the
twilights of their careers, more help is needed,
especially with Winston Justice flunking his one
trial by fire in 2007. Another center could help, too.
Defensive line The team cut Jevon Kearse,
added free agent DE Chris Clemons and could
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

make more moves at the position. Trent Cole needs


help, though Clemons, Juqua Thomas and Victor
Abiamiri could step up. DT Mike Pattersons marijuana arrest might not lead to a suspension, but it
highlights the lack of depth inside should something happen to him or Brodrick Bunkley.
Linebackers This ended up being one of the
biggest strengths on defense, despite the new faces.
Its not an area of great need, but there has been
some talk about letting Takeo Spikes go, which
would thin things out a bit. But coordinator Jim
Johnson loves his future starting trio of Chris
Gocong, Stewart Bradley and Omar Gaither.
Defensive backs At cornerback, the freeagent addition of Asante Samuel (Patriots) should
help immensely, but Lito Sheppard still gets hurt
too much and is unhappy with his contract. At safety, Brian Dawkins is 34 and near the end of a splendid career, and Sean Considine is injury-prone. A
DB with return skills would be even more attractive
to the Eagles.
Special teams You could make an argument
that finding a capable return guy for both kickoffs
and punts is the teams most pressing need. PK
David Akers is losing some distance and could face
some real competition for the first time in years. P
Sav Rocca might need someone to push him; he
was a bit inconsistent in his first season.
Summary The Eagles typically draft well
and are willing to move up or down to find the guy
they most covet early on. Its very likely that the
team will target a top wideout or defensive back
who can contribute as a returner very early in the
draft, though dont overlook needs at defensive end
or offensive tackle in the middle rounds.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS
Quarterbacks Theres room for help here,
especially with Jason Campbell learning yet another offensive scheme and Mark Brunell hitting free
agency (Todd Collins re-signed). Any rookie added
likely would fit the West Coast mold and compete
for the No. 3 job.
Running backs It wouldnt be shocking to
see the team add a body here, though its not a
pressing need. More than anything, depth could be
an issue, with Clinton Portis taking a beating and
Ladell Betts having a disappointing 2007 season.
Receivers Finding a big receiver to complement WR Santana Moss and TE Chris Cooley has
been on the wish list for years. Ideally, Moss would
be a second option, and Antwaan Randle El would
be the slot guy. Brandon Lloyd was cut, and most of
the reserves are aging quickly. Cooley and Todd
Yoder are a nice 1-2 punch, but a solid third tight
end is in order.
Offensive line Finding youth here is important with OLT Chris Samuels turning 31 in July,
OLG Pete Kendall turning 35 in the same month
and ORT Jon Jansen becoming unreliable because
of age (32) and injuries. OT Stephon Heyer has
promise, but there isnt another young lineman on
the roster capable of starting. And with the quickhitting West Coast offense, tackle becomes more of
a need.
Defensive line DE Phillip Daniels, 35, has
lost a step or two, and DT Cornelius Griffin is hurt

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a lot. There are some solid, young players here, but
the team could use reinforcements for the style of
pressure defense that new coordinator Greg Blache,
a former DL coach, wants to play. End is the more
pressing spot.
Linebackers Rocky McIntoshs torn ACL
(hes expected back by camp) and Randall Godfrey
(free agent) raise enough doubt that at least one outside backer should be added. But recent misfires
the team has drafted six linebackers the past
three seasons, and only two remain on the roster
could make the front office gun-shy about going
this direction again.
Defensive backs Sean Taylors death robbed
the team of perhaps its best all-around player.
LaRon Landry is a future star, and Reed Doughty
played admirably in Taylors place, but more is
needed. Cornerback also is a position that needs
reinforcements, especially with Carlos Rogers
ACL injury (he could be out until October) and
Shawn Springs future in doubt.
Special teams PK Shaun Suisham is an
exclusive rights free agent who might need some
competition in camp. Pro Bowl LS Ethan Albright
re-signed, but P Derrick Frost, who improved,
remained a free agent at presstime. The return units
might need a little boost.
Summary The Redskins own their first-, second- and third-round draft picks for the first time
since 2002. They still owe the Broncos their fourthrounder, but the more complete allotment of picks
should allow the Redskins to fill some pressing
needs. With new head coach Jim Zorn installing a
new offensive system, dont be surprised if that side
of the ball gets a little more attention than the
defense across the board when its all said an done.

NFC NORTH
CHICAGO BEARS
Quarterbacks Both Rex Grossman, who has
been woefully inconsistent since being selected in
the first round of the 2003 draft, and Kyle Orton
have signed new one-year contract extensions. But
the team very well could draft another quarterback
after trading Brian Griese to Tampa Bay.
Running backs A speedy back with big-play
ability to challenge incumbent starter Cedric Benson, who had only three runs longer than 20 yards
in 2007, is considered one of the teams top priorities. The Bears dropped from 15th to 30th in rushing yards per game last season and finished dead last
in average gain per rush.
Receivers With Bernard Berrian bolting for
Minnesota, Muhsin Muhammad getting cut and
Devin Hester an intriguing but unproven work in
progress, the Bears will certainly consider drafting a
pass catcher or two. They also might consider a
blocking tight end to replace the departed John
Gilmore. Back for a second stint, Marty Booker will
enter training camp as the No. 1 WR by default.
Offensive line The teams top need. Last
years unit seemed to get old overnight. Aging
starters Fred Miller (ORT) and Ruben Brown
(OLG) both were released. The Bears would love to
find a quality left tackle and move John Tait to right

tackle, which would shore up two positions.


Defensive line The Bears appear to be in
excellent shape on the edges, but a huge space-eater
in the middle to help keep DTs Tommie Harris and
Dusty Dvoracek fresh wouldnt hurt, especially
considering the injuries that hindered the Bears
starting DTs last season and the release of the disappointing Darwin Walker.
Linebackers A strength. The Bears dodged a
bullet when free agent WLB Lance Briggs surprisingly re-signed with the team. But starting MLB
Brian Urlacher will be 30 in May and underwent
neck surgery shortly after the 2007 season, in addition to being hampered by an arthritic back condition during the season.
Defensive backs The Bears need a major
upgrade at the safety position. 2007 trade addition
Adam Archuleta was a bust at strong safety, and
Mike Brown, the starting free safety entering the
07 campaign, has suffered season-ending injuries
the last three years.
Special teams A team strength, even if free
agent Pro Bowl special-teamer Brendon Ayanbadejo signs elsewhere.
Summary Look for Bears GM Jerry Angelo
to concentrate primarily on offense. The team needs
more immediate impact out of this years crop after
last years rookie group didnt contribute much.

DETROIT LIONS
Quarterbacks This is a tricky position to evaluate considering that Mike Martz is gone. Jon Kitna
probably will hold onto his starting gig, but its not
clear if Drew Stanton or Dan Orlovsky will develop
into anything worth keeping. With other pressing
needs, dont expect the Lions to draft a QB very
high.
Running backs This is a position of need
considering that Kevin Jones might miss the start of
the season again, T.J. Duckett signed with Seattle,
and Tatum Bell doesnt fit the teams plans. New
coordinator Jim Colletto plans to run a more balanced attack, so there will be more than one new
face here.
Receivers This is the strength of the team,
though some Roy Williams trade rumors have been
floated around. If theres a need, its with the depth
at tight end, where the unit faltered especially
blocking-wise after Dan Campbell went down.
Free-agent addition Michael Gaines (Bills) could
help along those lines.
Offensive line Starting with a right tackle,
this area needs upgrading after 2007 starter Damien
Woody signed with the Jets. Even OLT Jeff Backus
took a step backwards. The depth inside is just OK,
too. The unit allowed 54 sacks last season, but a
more physical, balanced approach should help
lower that number significantly.
Defensive line DT Shaun Rogers was traded to
Cleveland, DE Kalimba Edwards likely will be let
go and DT Shaun Cody hasnt panned out as expected. Too often, DE Dewayne White was the only pass
rusher, as even DT Cory Redding didnt perform as
expected. This unit needs more than one guy here.
Linebackers Ernie Sims is the only true playmaker, and the depth is poor. MLB Paris Lenon has
a place on the team, but he might be a better fit on
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the strong side, where Boss Bailey is expected to
leave. This is another area of significant need.
Defensive backs This is perhaps the most
pressing area of concern on the team. The pass
defense was horrible for most of the season, and
though part of that had to do with the lack of a pass
rush, the CB play was poor. Getting FS Daniel Bullocks back will help. So will Leigh Bodden.
obtained from Cleveland in the Rogers trade. Veteran S Dwight Smith signed the day before the start
of free agency, and a lot more new faces could still
be added here.
Special teams P Nick Harris quietly had an
excellent season, and PK Jason Hanson remains
mostly solid. A punt returner with a little more juice
might be nice, but Troy Walters is fine if not. More
athletes are needed, too the coverage units were
among the leagues worst.
Summary The team clearly needs defensive
help at multiple spots, but dont overlook running
back and right tackle in the order of need. There are
enough sore spots where the team could find
starters with its first two picks, and with GM Matt
Millen perpetually riding the firing line, he needs to
hit it big in 08.

GREEN BAY PACKERS


Quarterbacks With Brett Favre announcing
his retirement March 4, the need exists for another
signalcaller. At presstime, former first-round pick
Aaron Rodgers was the only other starting-caliber
QB currently on the roster.
Running backs The emergence of Ryan
Grant has bolstered this position, but more depth
wouldnt hurt, especially since Brandon Jackson,
DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency have all
been so injury-prone up to now in their pro careers.
Receivers The team appears to be in tremendous shape at wide receiver, but after cutting eightyear veteran Bubba Franks, who was scheduled to
make $4.5 million in 2008, the Packers could very
well pursue a less expensive backup tight end.
Offensive line The Packers would love to
find a couple of interior blockers who excel at runblocking. Current OGs Jason Spitz, Daryn Colledge
and Junius Coston are nothing special. They also
could consider a tackle with starters Chad Clifton
and Mark Tauscher starting to show their age as the
season wound down.
Defensive line The Packers remain deep at
this position even after trading Corey Williams to
Cleveland. They could consider a cheaper alternative in the pass-rush specialist role than 30-year-old
Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, who is due to make $3 million next season.
Linebackers The team could use more depth
behind the very solid starting unit of Nick Barnett
in the middle and A.J. Hawk and Brady Poppinga
on the flanks. An outside backer who could help out
Poppinga in pass coverage on the strong side would
be a useful addition.
Defensive backs It became particularly clear
in the postseason that CBs Charles Woodson and Al
Harris are both starting to wear down. When you
also consider the substantial dropoff in talent
behind them, cornerback might be the Packers
biggest area of need. The team is in better shape at
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

the safety position, but Nick Collins, Atari Bigby


and backup Aaron Rouse all have their limitations.
Special teams The Packers improved significantly in this area in 2007, but they could consider
a punter to challenge Jon Ryan, who had two punts
blocked last season and had some rough stretches
late in the year.
Summary The secondary and offensive
guard figure to be GM Ted Thompsons primary
target areas. Dont be surprised if he ends up selecting another signalcaller possibly before the first
three rounds run their course.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Quarterbacks Tarvaris Jackson went 8-4 as a
starter, and though he hasnt been green-lighted as
the starter, hes the favorite at this point. After
releasing Kelly Holcomb, the team might bring in a
draft pick to compete, as was the case with Tyler
Thigpen last year.
Running backs Adrian Peterson and Chester
Taylor were the most productive duo in the league,
but help could be sought in the lower rounds of the
draft with Mewelde Moore departing for Pittsburgh. The team would want someone like Moore,
who is good in the passing game and can contribute
on special teams. Ex-Niner Maurice Hicks could
fill the bill. Another free-agent addition, Thomas
Tapeh (Eagles), replaces Tony Richardson as the
teams fullback.
Receivers Free-agent addition Bernard Berrian (Bears) has what it takes to be a reliable fieldstretcher, but the position still could use some more
help. Troy Williamson was traded after three years
during which he failed to blossom. Bobby Wade is
reliable, but hes best as a second or third option at
best. Sidney Rice could develop, but he lacks
home-run speed. The tight ends are not inspiring,
but adding one would be more of a luxury.
Offensive line The biggest spot of concern is
at right tackle, where Ryan Cook struggled at times.
Bryant McKinnie might not be a perfect match for
the zone-blocking scheme, but hes still the best
tackle on the team. The team should think about
developing a center to take over for Matt Birk, who
is nearing the end of his career.
Defensive line Even before it was announced
that Kenechi Udeze is battling leukemia, defensive
end was considered a major need. Now, its essential. The team notched 38 sacks and had the best run
defense in the NFL, but coordinator Leslie Frazier
was forced to blitz too often with linebackers to create pressure. With free-agent DT Spencer Johnson
signing with the Bills, the depth inside is poor.
Linebackers This is a team strength with talent and depth at most spots. The group was healthy
and productive in 2008, and there are few spots
open for next season.
Defensive backs The poor pass defense is
partly a result of the inconsistent pass rush, but the
CB play was subpar as well. Antoine Winfield
played hurt and missed six games, Cedric Griffin
struggled and Marcus McCauley wasnt ready for
primetime. The corners are tough, but a better coverage guy would help. At safety, free-agent addition
Madieu Williams (Bengals) provides a coverage
upgrade over the departed Dwight Smith, but the

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depth is thin.
Special teams P Chris Kluwe and PK Ryan
Longwell are coming off strong seasons, and the
return units were strong, but the coverage teams
need some help. With Moore leaving, the need for a
punt returner has increased.
Summary Defensive end and wide receiver
are the top two needs and coincidentally, the
draft is strong at both positions. The Vikings could
look to add help at both spots with multiple players,
but dont overlook needs in the secondary and on
the offensive line.

NFC SOUTH
ATLANTA FALCONS
Quarterbacks This is arguably the teams
most pressing need as it continues to search for a
replacement for its imprisoned face of the franchise, Michael Vick. Last years trio of Joey Harrington, Byron Leftwich, and newly re-signed Chris
Redman was inadequate, to say the least.
Running backs Say goodbye to the Warrick
Dunn era, with free-agent addition Michael Turner
(Chargers) expected to team up with Jerious Norwood, who showed breakaway ability on a couple
occasions last season but does not have the durability to be an every-down running back.
Receivers The release of Pro Bowl TE Alge
Crumpler leaves a big void at the position that the
Falcons hope free-agent addition Ben Hartsock
(Titans) can at least partially fill. The Falcons are
set up well at wide receiver, with Roddy White
emerging as one of the NFCs best last season.
Offensive line OLT Wayne Gandy was
released, and ORT Todd Weiner is coming off a
knee injury. The Falcons could snatch both of their
replacements from a strong, deep draft class of
rookie tackles.
Defensive line The Falcons are set at the edges
with DEs John Abraham and last years first-round
pick, Jamaal Anderson, though Anderson failed to
record a sack in his first season. Veteran DT Rod
Coleman sustained multiple serious injuries last
year, which may have played a role in the teams
decision to release him. New head coach Mike Smith
likes bulky tackles who can clog up the middle.
Linebackers Word is MLB Keith Brooking
will be moved back to the weak side if he is
retained, and sources say the Falcons are committed
to re-signing restricted free-agent SLB Michael
Boley to a long-term contract. A new man in the
middle could be in order for the shuffled LB corps.
Defensive backs Safety is an area of concern
for the club, as SS Lawyer Milloy approaches the
end of his career. At free safety, free-agent addition
Erik Coleman (Jets) is expected to replace free
agent Chris Crocker, but another young player
could be added to the mix. Ex-Colt/Texan CB-S
Von Hutchins adds depth.
Special teams PK Morten Andersen, a free
agent this offseason, will turn 48 before next season. He went 25-for-28 on field-goal attempts last
season. His range is limited, but his accuracy may
be solid enough for the team to keep him for another year. RFA P Michael Koenen received a second-

round tender.
Summary Smith and Dimitroff face a daunting first offseason, as they prepare to set the course
of the franchise with their nine draft picks.

CAROLINA PANTHERS
Quarterbacks The Panthers started a franchise-record four different quarterbacks last season
as they scrambled to find a consistent replacement
for injured QB Jake Delhomme. Delhomme is
expected to be ready for training camp after undergoing Tommy John surgery, and the team appears to
have settled on Matt Moore, who had a steady rookie year, as his backup after cutting David Carr.
Running backs GM Marty Hurneys comments this offseason suggested a shakeup could be in
store for Carolinas backfield. DeAngelo Williams
will likely have a major role after DeShaun Foster
was released. The Panthers are expected to add
another back in free agency or the draft.
Receivers Carolina spent a second-round
pick on USC WR Dwayne Jarrett last year, hoping
he would emerge as a complimentary target in the
passing game to the Panthers game-changer, WR
Steve Smith. Jarrett, who is only 21, did not live up
to the hype, grabbing just six catches for 73 yards
and was active in only seven games. The team could
still be looking for another No. 2 or No. 3 option
even after adding veteran Muhsin Muhammad for a
second go-around in Carolina.
Offensive line The Panthers have been very
active in retooling the offensive line already this
offseason, releasing veteran OG Mike Wahle, who
signed with the Seahawks, and re-signing OLT
Travelle Wharton. Carolina may still use a pick on
a tackle, as rumors circulate that Wharton could be
moved inside to fill the vacancy left by Wahle.
Defensive line DE Julius Peppers followed up
a season in which he set a career high for sacks (13
in 2006) by netting a career-low 212 in 07. He has
just one season left on his contract, although its
highly unlikely the Panthers would let him get away.
The Panthers other starting end, Mike Rucker, is a
free agent, so end could be a top priority for Carolina this offseason. The team could add some depth at
tackle after finally trading veteran Kris Jenkins.
Linebackers In last years draft, Fox and Hurney found a stud in MLB Jon Beason. He started at
outside linebacker at first but replaced the recently
released Dan Morgan in the middle after Morgan
went down with a partially torn Achilles tendon.
Coaches seem pleased with Nail Diggs and Thomas
Davis on the outside, though some young linebackers
could help out on special teams.
Defensive backs SS Chris Harris showed a
knack for stripping the ball away from ball carriers
in his first season in Carolina. The Panthers have
depth at cornerback but could be in the market for a
free safety
Special teams Ryne Robinson gradually
improved in his first year after a shaky start. He is
locked in to return punts and kicks this season. The
last remaining member of the Panthers inaugural
team in 1995, PK John Kasay, is likely to only handle the field-goal duties with Rhys Lloyd expected
to handle kickoffs.
Summary With Fox and Hurney facing a
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coming months will turn to rebuilding the squads


faltering defense. New Orleans targeted some solid
veterans (Vilma, McCray, Gay) to try to regain the
upper-hand in the NFC South.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

DRAFT NEEDS

potential make-or-break season, the Panthers have


been very active early in the offseason, and the
aggressive approach should continue. The emphasis
will be to find playmakers on offense, whether it be
at wide receiver, running back or tight end.

Quarterbacks Jeff Garcia received a Pro


Bowl nod in his first season under center in Tampa,
and brought energy and determination to a Bucs
team that sorely needed both. He just recently
turned 38, and his contract expires after the 2008
season, so its not too early to begin searching for a
replacement. Coach Jon Gruden may be tempted to
take Louisvilles Brian Brohm should he fall to the
Bucs spot in the first round.
Running backs Tampa endured a slew of
serious injuries in its backfield in 2007, and word is
RB Cadillac Williams torn patellar tendon could be
career-threatening. RB Earnest Graham was a
pleasant surprise, rushing for 898 yards after starting the season as the third-string ball carrier. The
Bucs re-signed RB Michael Bennett, who will likely back up Graham next season.
Receivers The Bucs have a pair of declining
veterans, WRs Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard, and
a pair of question marks, WRs Michael Clayton and
Maurice Stovall. The squad got by with that group
in 2007, but it could be a recipe for disaster in 08.
Tampa needs to get younger at the position and
groom Galloways eventual replacement as the No.
1 receiver. Free-agent addition John Gilmore
(Bears) adds depth at tight end.
Offensive line Free-agent addition Jeff Faine
(Saints) replaces John Wade as the starting center
on one of the youngest offensive lines in the league.
At the end of last season, only one starter (Wade)
had more than one year of experience. OLT Luke
Petitgout should be back after missing most of last
season with a torn ACL suffered in Week Four.
Defensive line After cutting veterans Kevin
Carter and Greg Spires, the team could be looking
for another end to team up with Gaines Adams and
last years pleasant surprise, Greg White, who led
the team in sacks after coming over from the Arena
League. DE Jimmy Wilkerson was added via free
agency (Chiefs). The Bucs could add multiple
defensive tackles in the offseason, and last years
starting tandem of Jovan Haye (a restricted free
agent) and Chris Hovan could be out of the lineup.
Linebackers The Bucs have a good mix of
youth and experience at linebacker, with Barrett
Ruud in the middle and Derrick Brooks and Cato
June patrolling the outside. Brooks, who will be 35
in April, has stated he plans on playing next season,
but his playing time could diminish, especially if
the team takes an outside backer early in the draft.
Defensive backs Depth at cornerback is
something the Bucs will likely address. After
starters Ronde Barber and Phillip Buchanon, there
is a big drop off, especially with Brian Kelly headed elsewhere. Tampa has two potential Pro Bowlers
at safety in Jermaine Phillips and Tanard Jackson,
last years rookie sensation.
Special teams KR Micheal Spurlock became
the first Buccaneer in franchise history to return a
kickoff for a touchdown last season. He will likely
handle the return duties next season unless Mark

Quarterbacks The Saints have relied on QB


Drew Brees ability to stay healthy the last couple
seasons, but now might be the time to replace his
backup, 38-year-old Jamie Martin. Saints coach
Sean Payton is a former QB coach and should have
a good eye when it comes to evaluating prospects at
the position.
Running backs RB Deuce McAllister suffered his second torn ACL in three years in the third
game of the 2007 season. Some have speculated
about his future with the Saints, inferring that he
could become a salary-cap casualty, but it would
seem his presence is as vital as ever, considering
Reggie Bush struggled last season as the everydown back.
Receivers In a way, the Saints will be getting
a rookie WR, even if they dont draft one. Last
years first-round pick, Robert Meachem, did not
suit up last season in what amounted to a redshirt
year. Pressure will be on him to become an instant
difference-maker as the teams No. 2 or No. 3 wide
receiver. Free agent David Patten signed a new twoyear deal. An upgrade at tight end isnt out of the
question; UFA Eric Johnson often dropped passes
in his first year with New Orleans.
Offensive line The team is set at offensive
tackle with OLT Jammal Brown, a 2006 Pro
Bowler, and ORT Jon Stinchcomb, although some
have suggested he could be replaced. New Orleans
could address some needs on the interior of the Oline. Jonathan Goodwin is first in line to replace
departed starting C Jeff Faine, and its quite likely
the team will add another center via the draft.
Defensive line Defensive tackle is a top-five
priority for the Saints, who appear to be sound on
the outside with DEs Will Smith, Charles Grant and
free-agent addition Bobby McCray (Jaguars). New
Orleans had a mostly unathletic group of DTs and
could use an injection of youth and speed. Free
agent Brian Young was re-signed.
Linebackers A major change has taken place
in the middle, where former Jet Jonathan Vilma figures to replace Mark Simoneau as the starter and add
strength, savvy and playmaking ability. Scott Shanle
and Scott Fujita remain serviceable on the flanks.
Defensive backs Few teams need more help
in one area than the Saints do in their secondary.
The team allowed 15 plays of 40 or more, which
tied it with Baltimore for the highest total in the
NFL. CB Mike McKenzie had his best season in
quite a while, but 2007 free-agent acquisition Jason
David was consistently overmatched and proved he
wasnt starter material. Ex-Patriots CB Randall Gay
figures to challenge David.
Special teams The Saints released Olindo
Mare and will likely hand over the PK chores to
Martin Gramatica, who went 5-for-5 in a short stint
after signing with New Orleans last season.
Summary Payton has molded an explosive
offense in the Big Easy, but the emphasis in the
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Jones is re-signed.
Summary Tampa went from worst-to-first in
the NFC South last season, but the team has never
put together back-to-back winning seasons during
Grudens tenure. The Bucs will need to rebuild at a
couple spots that have been held down by longtime
fixtures nearing retirement.

NFC WEST
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Quarterbacks With durability being an issue
in recent years for veteran Kurt Warner, who turns
37 this summer, and designated starter Matt Leinart
coming off a season-ending fractured collarbone,
the Cardinals could very well consider strengthening the QB position with a mid-to-late-round pick.
Running backs Its quite conceivable the Cardinals will use a high pick on a back with more burst
and big-play ability than Edgerrin James, who is far
from the perfect fit in head coach Ken Whisenhunts
preferred offensive system. Backups Marcel Shipp
and J.J. Arrington are spot performers at best.
Receivers With unrestricted free agent Bryant
Johnson a long shot to return with the team having so many other re-signing priorities the Cardinals could be on the prowl for a new No. 3 receiver
with similar big-play ability behind the dynamic
starting duo of Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.
At tight end, the team seems satisfied with Leonard
Pope, Ben Patrick, Troy Bienemann and free-agent
addition Jerame Tuman (Steelers).
Offensive line Highly regarded O-line coach
Russ Grimm would love more depth at all three line
positions. Dont be surprised if the Cardinals use a
couple of picks to further fortify a unit that has
made decent progress under Grimm.
Defensive line More depth is needed outside.
Restricted free agent DLE Antonio Smith is merely
adequate, DRE Joe Tafoya is an unrestricted free
agent who could move elsewhere and hybrid OLBDE Bertrand Berry, who will be 33 before next season starts, could be on his last legs after suffering
season-ending injuries the last three years.
Linebackers The Cardinals could use some
help outside after losing Calvin Pace to the Jets.
Free-agent addition Travis LaBoy, who played end
in the Titans 4-3, will compete with Berry for
Paces starting job. Disappointing restricted free
agent Darryl Blackstock was not tendered.
Defensive backs With the team deciding to
move former first-round pick Antrel Rolle to free
safety, the need for help at cornerback has intensified. The dropoff in talent behind projected starters
Rod Hood and Eric Green is steep. Another safety
could be added to replace the departed Terrence Holt.
Special teams The Cardinals made great
strides in their return game thanks to 07 rookie Steve
Breaston, who figures to get only better. But their
coverage units could use some replenishing, and a
punter to challenge Mitch Berger is a possibility.
Summary Unaccustomed to not having a top
10 pick in the draft, the Cardinals are hoping to add
an instant-impact player with the 16th overall pick.
Look for Whisenhunt to put a premium on drafting
intelligent players after the Cardinals led the league

in penalties in his first year at the helm.

ST. LOUIS RAMS


Quarterbacks Starter Marc Bulger is locked
up long-term, but the Rams could very well consider drafting a quarterback after deciding to release
veteran backup Gus Frerotte.
Running backs With offensive centerpiece
Steven Jackson entering the final year of his contract in 2008, some more insurance in the backfield
could come in handy. Even though he has rushed
for over 1,000 yards in three straight seasons, Jackson has had his share of injury issues including a
groin injury that forced him to miss four games last
season and a back problem that kept him out of most
of a fifth. Brian Leonard displayed flashes as a rookie but seems best-suited for a utility role.
Receivers Isaac Bruce was released, and age
continues to creep up on fellow 07 starter Torry
Holt, who also has a chronic knee ailment that figures to get only worse. Drafting a speed receiver is
a must perhaps on the first day.
Offensive line It remains to be seen if seventime Pro Bowl OLT Orlando Pace, at the age of 32,
can bounce back from shoulder and triceps injuries
that have limited him to only nine games over the
last two seasons. If Pace wasnt enough of a concern, the top two candidates for the center job
Brett Romberg and Andy McCollum are UFAs
with questionable upside, and 2007 starting OGs
Richie Incognito and Mark Setterstrom are both
coming off season-ending injuries. Durable freeagent addition Jacob Bell (Titans) is projected as
the OLG starter over Setterstrom.
Defensive line A stronger pass rush up front
is a huge need, particularly on the edges. The Rams
released James Hall after one disappointing season,
and 33-year-old Leonard Little is coming off major
toe surgery that forced him to miss nine games in
07.
Linebackers The unit is strong in the middle,
with Will Witherspoon branching out as a passrusher in Jim Hasletts hyperactive defense. At the
outside spots, though, unrestricted free agent Brandon Chillar is an erratic tackler, and Pisa
Tinoisamoa has had real problems staying healthy
the last two seasons, missing a total of 12 games.
More depth would help at all three spots.
Defensive backs Another shutdown corner
would be a valuable addition behind undersized Tye
Hill, who missed half of the 07 season due to
injury, and Fakhir Brown, who is a tough, physical
specimen but has a tendency to give up big plays.
At safety, an eventual replacement for aging SS
Corey Chavous could be on the teams wish list.
Special teams The team is in pretty good
shape, with ex-Seahawks PK Josh Brown replacing
the retired Jeff Wilkins, Dante Hall provided
hes healthy returning kicks and steady Donnie
Jones handling the punting chores. But some young
blood on the teams suspect coverage units is once
again a major need.
Summary Newly appointed executive vice
president of player personnel Billy Devaney has
plenty of options worth considering on both sides
of the ball with the second overall pick in this years
draft. Whatever area he targets, the pressure will be
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great to come through with a quality differencemaker.

DRAFT NEEDS

DRAFT NEEDS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS


Quarterbacks New offensive coordinator Mike
Martz can always be counted on to check out the QB
ranks, even though the team appears well-stocked
with Alex Smith, newly re-signed Shaun Hill and
free-agent addition J.T. OSullivan from the Lions.
Running backs The Niners fortified the
merely adequate cast complementing centerpiece
Frank Gore with the signing of ex-Panthers RB
DeShaun Foster, but they could still go after another back with speed and big-play ability. They also
need help at fullback after Moran Norris played his
way out of a job in 2007.
Receivers A legitimate deep threat downfield
is once again a top priority, with Martz expected to
emphasize the passing game more than ever. Fourtime Pro Bowl WR Isaac Bruce, who played under
Martz in St. Louis, adds a polished veteran presence. It will be surprising if the Niners dont draft
at least two wideouts. The team is in good shape at
tight end with Vernon Davis, Delanie Walker and
blocking specialist Billy Bajema.
Offensive line A major need, particularly at
the guard spots. Justin Smiley signed with Miami,
and the return of fellow starting OG Larry Allen, an
unrestricted free agent, is questionable. The unit
could also use another big, pile-driving tackle to
help out on the right side, with 07 first-round pick
Joe Staley expected to move to the left side.
Defensive line The Niners hope free-agent
addition Justin Smith becomes the impact passrusher off the edge the team has been lacking for
some time now. Another end could be drafted with
Bryant Young announcing his retirement, and unrestricted free agent Marques Douglas, the Niners
other starting DE last season, likely to sign with
another team. The team seems satisfied inside with
newly re-signed Isaac Sopoaga and 2007 free-agent
addition Aubrayo Franklin.
Linebackers Another outside linebacker with
good size and legitimate pass-rushing ability would
strengthen the LB corps. Inside, the Niners are sitting pretty with Patrick Willis, who could be the
leagues next really dominant defender, but the
body clock is ticking for veteran ILB Jeff Ulbrich.
ILB Derek Smith was released.
Defensive backs Some help at cornerback
wouldnt hurt. After a career season in 2006, 33year-old Walt Harris started to show his age more
than a little this past season, and No. 3 CB Shawntae Spencers durability isnt the greatest.
Special teams The Niners signed ex-Steelers
RS Allen Rossum, a proven commodity who is
expected to be the main man on both kickoffs and
punts. PK Joe Nedney is solid, and Andy Lee has
become one of the leagues top punters.
Summary New GM Scot McCloughan would
love to hit a Willis-type home run with the 30th overall selection after the Niners traded their 2008 firstround pick, which would have been No. 7 overall, to
the Patriots. McCloughans emphasis will mostly be
on rebuilding the teams league-worst offense.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Quarterbacks Its possible but very unlikely
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

the Seahawks will take a second-day flier on a quarterback. With Matt Hasselbeck, Seneca Wallace and
Charlie Frye, arguably the leagues top No. 3 QB,
on the depth chart, they appear particularly wellstocked at the position.
Running backs A top priority. Mike Holmgren has indicated a full-scale makeover for the
ground game is in the works, and its questionable
the extent to which Shaun Alexander figures in
Holmgrens plans after missing nine games due to
injury and averaging a scant 3.5 yards per carry the
last two seasons. Free-agent signee T.J. Duckett
(Lions) is expected to be the teams short-yardage
specialist.
Receivers Dont be surprised if the Seahawks use their first pick on a tight end who
poses a genuine threat in the red zone. Marcus
Pollard suffered a complete meltdown in the
playoffs and isnt likely to be back. The Seahawks like their young talent at wide receiver, but
they could still consider looking for a few more
outside pass catchers. Deion Branch, who cost the
team a No. 1 pick last season, has had problems
staying healthy, Bobby Engram is 35 and D.J.
Hackett is an unrestricted free agent who could be
on the way out.
Offensive line The addition of quality veteran guard Mike Wahle, who was a salary-cap casualty in Carolina, was a nice start, but the Seahawks
still have more work to do with a line that could use
some help at every position. The team must seriously start thinking about replacing OLT Walter
Jones, who will be 34 years old when next season
starts and has shoulder issues that arent expected to
go away. With 37-year-old Chris Gray nearing the
end of the line, the team could also still use another guard or two.
Defensive line 2007 rookie Brandon Mebane
was a godsend at defensive tackle replacing the
injured DLT Chuck Darby and appears to have a
bright future, but the Seahawks still need to beef up
their interior. Darby is an aging unrestricted free
agent who might not return, and former first-round
pick Marcus Tubbs remains a major injury risk.
Linebackers The Seahawks couldnt ask for
more from Julian Peterson, Lofa Tatupu and Leroy
Hill, who make up arguably the leagues most talented starting LB corps, but they need more depth
behind them after losing quality reserves Kevin
Bentley (signed with Texans) and Niko Koutouvides (signed with Broncos).
Defensive backs Unless the team loses Pro
Bowl CB Marcus Trufant in free agency, which is
unlikely after he was given the franchise tag, the
Seahawks appear to be in decent shape in the secondary.
Special teams With free agent Josh Brown
flying the coop to St. Louis, the Seahawks need to
find themselves a new placekicker in the draft or
via free agency. Ryan Plackemeier is a steadily
improving young punter, and the return game is
above-average, but the team needs a new longsnapper and must replace special-teams studs Bentley and Koutouvides.
Summary A potential new featured back, an
heir apparent to Jones and a tight end with size
and speed are all options GM Tim Ruskell must
consider.

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MOCK DRAFT
AS OF MARCH 5

FIRST ROUND

1 QB MATT RYAN BOSTON COLLEGE


2 OLT JAKE LONG MICHIGAN
3 DT GLENN DORSEY LSU
4 OLB VERNON GHOLSTON OHIO STATE
5 OLT JEFF OTAH PITTSBURGH
6 OLB CHRIS LONG VIRGINIA
7 RB DARREN McFADDEN ARKANSAS
8 CB-RS LEODIS McKELVIN TROY
9 OLT RYAN CLADY BOISE STATE
10 CB-KR D. RODGERS-CROMARTIE TENN. ST.
11 NT SEDRICK ELLIS USC
12 WLB KEITH RIVERS USC
13 RB JONATHAN STEWART OREGON
14 OLT CHRIS WILLIAMS VANDERBILT
15 CB-RS AQIB TALIB KANSAS
16 RB RASHARD MENDENHALL ILLINOIS
MIAMI DOLPHINS

ST. LOUIS RAMS

ATLANTA FALCONS

OAKLAND RAIDERS

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

NEW YORK JETS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (FROM SAN FRANCISCO)

BALTIMORE RAVENS

CINCINNATI BENGALS

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

BUFFALO BILLS

DENVER BRONCOS

CAROLINA PANTHERS

CHICAGO BEARS

DETROIT LIONS

ARIZONA CARDINALS

17 DE DERRICK HARVEY FLORIDA


18 OLT GOSDER CHERILUS BOSTON COLL.
19 DE PHILLIP MERLING CLEMSON
20 WR-RS DeSEAN JACKSON CALIFORNIA
21 DE CALAIS CAMPBELL MIAMI (FLA.)
22 RB-RS FELIX JONES ARKANSAS
23 OLG BRANDEN ALBERT VIRGINIA
24 WR LIMAS SWEED TEXAS
25 OLT SAM BAKER USC
26 MLB CURTIS LOFTON OKLAHOMA
27 SS KENNY PHILLIPS MIAMI (FLA.)
28 WR MALCOLM KELLY OKLAHOMA
29 WR-KR DEVIN THOMAS MICHIGAN ST.
30 CB-KR MIKE JENKINS SOUTH FLORIDA
31 PICK FORFEITED
32 CB PATRICK LEE AUBURN
MINNESOTA VIKINGS

HOUSTON TEXANS

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

DALLAS COWBOYS (FROM CLEVELAND)

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

TENNESSEE TITANS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

DALLAS COWBOYS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (FROM INDIANAPOLIS)

GREEN BAY PACKERS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS


NEW YORK GIANTS

MOCK DRAFT

FOR UPDATED VERSIONS


OF OUR MOCK DRAFT,
GO TO:

SEE BACK COVER


FOR DETAILS

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

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PLAYER PRINTOUT
KEY TO SYMBOLS IN PLAYER PRINTOUT
Age Player is overaged.
ATH Player has the athletic ability to play multiple positions
and could be drafted higher because of it.
BB Pro baseball player who is entering the draft.
Ch. Character (i.e., history of arrests, team suspensions or
off-field problems) may affect draft status.
DNP Did not play football last season.
E Player had eligibility remaining.
H Likely will be drafted higher than ranking.
Jr. Player is entering the draft as a junior (Soph. for sophomore).

L Likely will be drafted lower than ranking.


MI More information needed to accurately grade player.
RB Can also play running back (S for safety, H-B for Hback, RS for return specialist, LS for long-snapper, PRS for
pass-rush specialist, ST for special-teamer, etc.).
RS-5.0 Player has separate grade of 5.0 as a return specialist (applies to other position abbreviations, too).
X Past or current injury could have an impact on where this
player is drafted, according to at least one source. Due to the
confidentiality of medical records, we cannot confirm or deny
whether the injury problem is still a concern.
XX Very serious injury concern.

GRADE SCALE FOR NFL PROSPECTS

GRADE-TO-ROUND
9.00 A once-in-a-lifetime player (e.g., John Elway, Jim Brown or Lawrence Taylor).
CONVERSION SCALE
8.00 - 8.99 Perennial All-Pro (e.g., Bruce Matthews).
7.50 - 7.99 Future All-Pro.
FOR THIS DRAFT
7.00 - 7.49 Should become a Pro Bowl-caliber player.
5.95 or above First round
6.50 - 6.99 Sure first-rounder who has a chance to become a Pro Bowl-caliber player
5.60 - 5.94 Second round
and, in the case of a quarterback, will probably be a high-first-round pick because of the
5.45 - 5.59 Third round
need for quarterbacks.
5.35 - 5.44 Fourth round
6.00 - 6.49 Should become a quality NFL player.
5.27 - 5.34 Fifth round
5.50 - 5.99 Has a chance to become a quality NFL player and should be a first-day pick.
5.10 - 5.49 Has a better-than-average chance to make an NFL roster.
5.20 - 5.26 Sixth round
5.01 - 5.09 Has a slightly better than 50-50 chance to make a roster or practice squad.
5.15 - 5.19 Seventh round
5.00 Has a 50-50 chance to make a roster or practice squad.
4.75 - 4.99 Should be in an NFL training camp.
4.50 - 4.74 Has a chance to be in an NFL training camp.
4.00 - 4.49 Could be in an NFL training camp but will likely need time in a developmental league.
About the player printout: Players are ranked according to the grades we have given them, but not necessarily in the order we
believe they will be drafted. Factors such as a drafting club's needs and the abundance or scarcity of available talent at a given
position can cause a player to be drafted higher or lower than his grade would indicate.
All grades take into account workouts up to and including the Indianapolis Scouting Combine. Post-Combine workouts are not
factored in. Late workouts and other information can change grades, sometimes dramatically. A later printout will be published in
the draft-preview issue of Pro Football Weekly on March 30, updating the rankings at all positions, as well as the regardless-of-position rankings and the mock draft. The printout includes underclassmen who have been declared eligible for the draft by the NFL.

PLAYER PRINTOUT

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.

Boston College
Michigan
Louisville
Delaware
Kentucky
USC
Tennessee
San Diego
Oregon
San Diego State
LSU
Miami (Fla.)
Southern Illinois
Hawaii
Penn State
Marshall
Washington State
Florida State
Tulsa
Stanford
Iowa State
New Hampshire
Wisconsin
South Carolina
Illinois State
Nebraska
San Jose State
Auburn
Catawba (N.C.)

7.00
5.80
5.75
5.55
5.45
5.39
5.39
5.37
5.33
5.20
5.19
5.19
5.10
5.10
5.10
5.09
5.08
5.07
5.05
5.00
4.85
4.85
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.70

Matt Ryan
Chad Henne
Brian Brohm
Joe Flacco
Andre Woodson
John David Booty
Erik Ainge
Josh Johnson
Dennis Dixon
Kevin OConnell
Matt Flynn
Kyle Wright
Nick Hill
Colt Brennan
Anthony Morelli
Bernard Morris
Alex Brink
Xavier Lee
Paul Smith
Thomas T.C. Ostrander
Bret Meyer
Ricky Santos
Tyler Donovan
Blake Mitchell
Luke Drone
Sam Keller
Adam Tafralis
James Cox
Brad Roach

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

X
X

Norfolk State (Va.)


Columbia
Alabama A&M
Colorado State
Boise State
Kutztown (Pa.)

4.40
4.40
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

QUARTERBACKS

30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.

Casey Hansen
Craig Hormann
Kelcy Luke
Caleb Hanie
Taylor Tharp
Kyle Spotts

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.

LSU
Arkansas
Furman
West Virginia
Montana
Michigan State
Auburn
Kansas
Georgia
Georgia Tech
Idaho
Penn State
Minnesota
Army
Ohio State
LSU
Cincinnati

5.35
5.23
5.20
5.17
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.05
5.05
5.00
4.75
4.60
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.30

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

X
RB

FULLBACKS
X
ATH, WR, X

Ch.
WR, Ch.
Jr, ATH, TE
X
ATH, WR

Jacob Hester
Peyton Hillis
Jerome Felton
Owen Schmitt
Lex Hilliard
Jehuu Caulcrick
Carl Stewart
Brandon McAnderson
Kregg Lumpkin
Mike Cox
Rolly Lumbala
Matthew Hahn
Justin Valentine
Michael Viti
Dionte Johnson
Steven Korte
Doug Jones

RB
X, H-B
X, TE
X, RB
FB
RB
X, FB
H-B

XX
Jr.
OG

Ch.

RUNNING BACKS
Ch., X
H-B

RK. NAME

1. Jonathan Stewart
Oregon
2. Darren McFadden
Arkansas
3. Rashard Mendenhall Illinois

6.50
6.40
6.25

Jr, KR
Jr., Ch.
Jr.

7:32 PM

Page 189

189

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.

Felix Jones
Ray Rice
Matt Fort
Tashard Choice
Jamaal Charles
Chris Johnson
Kevin Smith
Steve Slaton
Thomas Brown
Mike Hart
Jerome Messam
Allen Patrick
Justin Forsett
Cory Boyd
Chad Simpson
Chauncey Washington
Ryan Torain
Jalen Parmele
Calvin Dawson
Allen Ervin
Matthew Lawrence
Marcus Thomas
Timothy Hightower
Dantrell Savage
Rafael Little
Rodney Kinlaw
Louis Rankin
BenJarvus Green-Ellis
Kalvin McRae
Keon Lattimore
Albert Young
Jamar Brittingham
Xavier Omon
Yvenson Bernard
Amir Pinnix
Jamario Thomas
Gregory Moore
Cassen Jackson-Garrison
Tony Temple
Lance Ball
Andre Callender
Erik Haw
Travis Thomas
Austin Scott
Omar Cuff
Bobby Washington
Adrain Smith
Alley Broussard
Barrington Edwards
Micah Andrews
Chris Markey
Courtney Tennial
Danny Woodhead
Jay Peck
Kareem Huggins
Lennox Whitworth
Lynell Hamilton
Damian Sims
Benton Butler
Joseph Doss
Kevin Richardson
James Johnson
Eugene Holloman
Tyler Sherden
Hershel Dennis
Brandon Whitaker
Harold Runnels

Arkansas
Rutgers
Tulane
Georgia Tech
Texas
East Carolina
Central Florida
West Virginia
Georgia
Michigan
Graceland (Iowa)
Oklahoma
California
South Carolina
Morgan State
USC
Arizona State
Toledo
Louisiana-Monroe
Lambuth
Massachusetts
UTEP
Richmond
Oklahoma State
Kentucky
Penn State
Washington
Mississippi
Ohio
Maryland
Iowa
Bloomsburg (Pa.)
Northwest Missouri St.
Oregon State
Minnesota
North Texas
Cincinnati
Vanderbilt
Missouri
Maryland
Boston College
Jackson State
Notre Dame
Penn State
Delaware
Eastern Kentucky
Bethel (Tenn.)
Missouri Southern
North Carolina
Wake Forest
UCLA
Tulsa
Chadron State (Neb.)
Alabama State
Hofstra
Boston College
San Diego State
Iowa
Cincinnati
Memphis
Appalachian State
Kansas State
James Madison
Luther (Iowa)
USC
Baylor
Stephen F. Austin

6.10
5.65
5.60
5.59
5.55
5.50
5.50
5.45
5.39
5.35
5.25
5.25
5.23
5.20
5.15
5.15
5.12
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.07
5.05
5.05
5.00
5.00
4.95
4.90
4.85
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

Jr., KR
Jr., X
FB
X
Jr., KR
X, WR, KR
Jr.
Jr, Ch.
X, E

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

Purdue
Texas A&M
Notre Dame
USC
California

5.85
5.80
5.70
5.65
5.59

Jr.
X
Ch.
RS

RS, WR
X, KR

X
X
FB

FB
X, Ch.

Jr., Ch.
LB, MI
X, Ch.
X, MI

DNP
FB
X
X
FB
X

X, MI

Ch.

TIGHT ENDS
RK. NAME
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Dustin Keller
Martellus Bennett
John Carlson
Fred Davis
Craig Stevens

X, H-B
Jr., Ch.
Ch.

6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.

Brad Cottam
Martin Rucker
Kellen Davis
Jermichael Finley
Jacob Tamme
Gary Barnidge
Derek Fine
Tom Santi
Joe Jon Finley
Andrew Atchison
Adam Bishop
Joseph Haynos
Kolo Kapanui
Chris Brown
Jonathan Stupar
Marcus Stone
Jed Collins
Mike Peterson
Darrell Strong
Louis Irizarry
Matt Sherry
Cole Bennett
Jason Goode
Keith Zinger
Brent Miller
Wade Betschart
Blake Martin
Brad Listorti
Brian Shope
Joseph Tuineau
Steve Schmidt
Nick Cleaver
Matthew Mulligan
Joe Nesheiwat
Jeff Postell
Chris Wagner
Ryan Putnam
Kris Kasparek
Langston Johnson
Andy Crooks
Ben Barkema
Christian Hopkins
Brandon Davis
Delviccio Frost
Zac Selmon
Michael Merritt
Dwayne Reed
Andy Boyd
Eric Butler
Joseph Thomas

Tennessee
Missouri
Michigan State
Texas
Kentucky
Louisville
Kansas
Virginia
Oklahoma
William & Mary
Nevada
Maryland
West Texas A&M
Tennessee
Virginia
North Carolina State
Washington State
Northwest Missouri St.
Pittsburgh
Youngstown State
Villanova
Auburn
Maryland
LSU
Arizona State
Wyoming
Sam Houston State
Massachusetts
Marshall
Southeast Missouri St.
San Diego State
New Mexico State
Maine
Syracuse
Delaware State
South Dakota State
Boise State
Akron
Yale
Wisconsin
Iowa State
Toledo
Northern Illinois
Jackson State
Wake Forest
Central Florida
Bethel (Tenn.)
South Carolina
Mississippi State
Texas A&M

5.55
5.50
5.39
5.39
5.37
5.35
5.12
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.07
5.05
5.05
5.00
5.00
4.90
4.85
4.85
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.

Texas
Michigan State
Oklahoma
Michigan
Indiana
Kansas State
LSU
California
Florida
Appalachian State
Virginia Tech
Vanderbilt
Houston
Virginia Tech
Coastal Carolina
Missouri
Virginia Tech
New Mexico
Wake Forest
Houston
California
Mount Union

6.15
6.10
6.10
6.01
5.95
5.90
5.85
5.75
5.70
5.65
5.65
5.59
5.50
5.40
5.40
5.39
5.37
5.35
5.33
5.30
5.30
5.30

Ch.
Soph-3
H-B, LS
H-B
H-B

H-B
X
Age
Ch.
X
X, H-B
Age, H-B
X, Ch.
Ch.
X
H-B
X
X, H-B
H-B
X
Age, OT
H-B

H-B
FB, H-B, Ch.
X, H-B
H-B

PLAYER PRINTOUT

3/5/08

WIDE RECEIVERS
Limas Sweed
Devin Thomas
Malcolm Kelly
Mario Manningham
James Hardy
Jordy Nelson
Early Doucet
DeSean Jackson
Andre Bubba Caldwell
Dexter Jackson
Eddie Royal
Earl Bennett
Donnie Avery
Josh Morgan
Jerome Simpson
William Franklin
Justin Harper
Marcus Smith
Kenneth Moore
Anthony Alridge
Lavelle Hawkins
Pierre Garcon

X
Jr.
Jr.
Jr., Ch.
Jr., Ch.
PR
PR
Jr., RS, X, Ch.
KR, X
RS
RS
Jr.
Ch.

RB
RB, RS
KR

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

PLAYER PRINTOUT

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

3/5/08

PLAYER PRINTOUT

PLAYER PRINTOUT

190

7:32 PM

Page 190

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
97.

Paul Hubbard
Harry Douglas
Arman Shields
Keenan Burton
D.J. Hall
Darius Reynaud
Adarius Bowman
Mario Urrutia
Davone Bess
Steve Johnson
Dorien Bryant
Adrian Arrington
Marcus Henry
Paul Raymond
Ryan Grice-Mullen
Edward Williams
Kevin Robinson
Maurice Purify
Brandon Breazell
Darnell Jenkins
Jason Rivers
Jabari Arthur
Joe West
Taj Smith
Clyde Edwards
Todd Blythe
Keith Brown
Marcus Monk
Luke Swan
Jaymar Johnson
Mario Hines
Darrell Blackman
Travis Brown
Lance Leggett
Danny Amendola
Gary Banks
Mark Bradford
James Banks
Brian Paysinger
Evan Moore
Bruce Hocker
Shaheer McBride
Joshua Hyman
John Dunlap
Lorne Sam
Michael Bumpus
Gregory Bracey
Patrick Carter
Billy Pittman
Nate Jones
Robert Jordan
Joe Cowan
Selwyn Lymon
Micah Rucker
Jeron Harvey
Omar Haugabook
DeCody Fagg
Tony Burks
Johnny Walker
Ben Bailey
Marcell Reece
Taurean Rhetta
Robert Johnson
Curtis Hamilton
Terrence Nunn
Brent Schaeffer
Ernie Wheelwright
Damon Morton
Amarri Jackson
Ryan Bagley
Jermaine Moye
Milan Moses
Jake Allen
Eric Allen
Matt Caddell

Wisconsin
5.29
Louisville
5.27
Richmond
5.25
Kentucky
5.25
Alabama
5.25
West Virginia
5.21
Oklahoma State
5.20
Louisville
5.19
Hawaii
5.17
Kentucky
5.15
Purdue
5.10
Michigan
5.10
Kansas
5.10
Brown
5.09
Hawaii
5.09
Lane (Tenn.)
5.09
Utah State
5.09
Nebraska
5.09
UCLA
5.09
Miami (Fla.)
5.09
Hawaii
5.07
Akron
5.07
UTEP
5.05
Syracuse
5.05
Grambling State
5.05
Iowa State
5.05
Alabama
5.05
Arkansas
5.05
Wisconsin
5.05
Jackson State
5.00
Robert Morris
5.00
North Carolina State
5.00
New Mexico
5.00
Miami (Fla.)
5.00
Texas Tech
5.00
Troy
4.90
Stanford
4.90
Carson Newman
4.85
Oregon
4.85
Stanford
4.85
Duquesne
4.80
Delaware State
4.80
Virginia Tech
4.80
North Carolina State
4.80
UTEP
4.80
Washington State
4.80
Missouri
4.75
Louisville
4.75
Texas
4.75
Texas
4.75
California
4.75
UCLA
4.75
Purdue
4.70
Eastern Illinois
4.70
Houston
4.70
Troy
4.70
Florida State
4.70
Mississippi State
4.70
Colorado State
4.70
Northwestern State (La.) 4.70
Washington
4.70
Jacksonville State
4.65
Arkansas
4.65
Western Kentucky
4.65
Nebraska
4.65
Mississippi
4.65
Minnesota
4.65
Colorado State
4.65
South Florida
4.60
Montana
4.60
California (Pa.)
4.60
Iowa State
4.60
Mississippi College
4.60
Montana
4.60
Alabama
4.55

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

KR
Ch.
Jr., RS
H-B, X, Ch.
Jr., Ch.
Jr.
Ch., RS
Jr., Ch.
PR
Jr.
X
RS
Ch.
X, RS

Jr.

Ch.
X, E
X
RS
Jr., RS
RS, RB

RS
Age, BB
X
Jr., Ch.
X, H-B
X
Ch., Age
X
X, QB

X
Ch.
X
X, Ch.

QB
XX
PR
H-B

ATH
X
ATH, Ch., QB
RS
X
FS
X

Liberty
Northern Colorado
Auburn
Concordia College (Ala.)
California (Pa.)
Oregon State
Kentucky
Texas A&M
Southern A&M
Liberty
North Dakota
Southern Illinois
Washington
San Diego State
Indiana State
Midwestern State (Tex.)
North Carolina
Wyoming
Bridgewater (Va.)
Oregon State
Grambling State
Fayetteville State
Norfolk State (Va.)
Tennessee Tech
South Carolina
San Diego State
Towson
Utah
North Texas
Florida A&M

4.55
4.55
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.45
4.45
4.35
4.35
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.25
4.25
4.25
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

KR

98.
99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.
105.
106.
107.
108.
109.
110.
111.
112.
113.
114.
115.
116.
117.
118.
119.
120.
121.
122.
123.
124.
125.
126.
127.

Wynton Jackson
Andy Birkel
Prechae Rodriquez
Eric Taylor
Nate Forse
Anthony Brown
John Logan
Kerry Franks
Gerard Landry
Brandon Turner
Weston Dressler
Alan Turner
Anthony Russo
Brett Swain
Rafael Price
Daniel Polk
Joe Dailey
Michael Ford
Brandon Copeland
Brandon Powers
Timothy Abney
Daryl Barnett
Rashad Howard
Larry Shipp
Mike West
Chaz Schilens
Demetrius Harrison
Brian Hernandez
Brandon Jackson
Willie Hayward

RS
X

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.

Arizona State
Rutgers
Notre Dame
Wake Forest
Bowling Green
Georgia
Buffalo
Texas A&M
Kentucky
Wisconsin
Portland State
Michigan State
Stanford
Texas
Missouri
Marshall
Wagner
Georgia Tech
West Texas A&M
Oregon State
Virginia
South Dakota
Southern Illinois
Nebraska
Fresno State
Mississippi
UCLA
Purdue
Boston College

5.50
5.39
5.35
5.30
5.30
5.20
5.20
5.15
5.09
5.00
4.90
4.90
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.60
4.60
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20

Jr.
Ch., S
KR, DNP, Ch.

FS
QB
QB, ATH

CENTERS
Mike Pollak
Jeremy Zuttah
John Sullivan
Steve Justice
Kory Lichtensteiger
Fernando Velasco
Jamey Richard
Cody Wallace
Eric Scott
Marcus Coleman
Brennen Carvalho
John Masters
Tim Mattran
Dallas Griffin
Adam Spieker
Doug Legursky
Riley Salinger
Kevin Tuminello
Tommy Crowley
Kyle Devan
Marcus Lipsey
Christian Morton
Darren Marquez
Brett Byford
Ryan Wendell
Corey Actis
Chris Joseph
Robert Powell
Kevin Sheridan

OT
OG

OG
OT
OG
X
OG
X
OG
Jr., MI
OG

OT

OFFENSIVE GUARDS
RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Virginia
USC
Oregon State
Toledo
Pittsburgh
Bentley (Mass.)
Connecticut
Utah State
Tennessee
Arkansas

6.25
5.55
5.40
5.40
5.37
5.35
5.35
5.20
5.20
5.17

Branden Albert
Chilo Rachal
Roy Schuening
John Greco
Mike McGlynn
Mackenzy Bernadeau
Donald Thomas
Shawn Murphy
Eric Young
Robert Felton

Jr., OT
Jr.
OT
X, OT, LS
X
OT, Age
OT, X
OC

7:32 PM

Page 191

191

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.

Kerry Brown
Chris McDuffie
Andrew Crummey
Mike Fladell
Matt Spanos
Marty Lindner
Charles Manu
Adam Kraus
Chester Adams
Eric Tunney
L.J. Anderson
James Blair
Brandon Rodd
Kirk Elder
Hercules Satele
Shannon Tevaga
Ian-Yates Cunningham
Derrick Morse
Jason Boone
Justin Britt
Brandon Barnes
Josh Coffman
John Booker
Jordan Grimes
Matt Alfred
Kenard Burley
Michael Butterworth
Andrew Bain
David Koenig
Marshal Ausberry
Walter Walker
William Arnold
Nathan McManus
Brandyn Dombrowski
Tad Miller
Josh Sitton
Ryan Poles
Brian Stamper
Jeff Cavender
Drew Miller
Jacky Claude
Charleston Gray
Jeremy Breath
James Lee
Earl Cager
Mike Decker
Akeem Lamar
Matthew Rhodes
Merritt Kirchoffer

Appalachian State
Clemson
Maryland
Rutgers
USC
Texas Christian
Nevada
Michigan
Georgia
Central Michigan
Central Florida
Western Michigan
Arizona State
Texas A&M
Hawaii
UCLA
Virginia
Miami (Fla.)
Utah
Alabama
Grand Valley State
East Carolina
San Jose State
Purdue
Eastern Washington
SMU
Slippery Rock (Pa.)
Miami (Fla.)
Oklahoma State
Liberty
South Florida
LSU
Georgia Tech
San Diego State
Boise State
Central Florida
Boston College
Vanderbilt
Boise State
Florida
Florida State
North Carolina
Delaware State
South Carolina State
Southeastern Louisiana
Central Michigan
Hampton
Georgia Tech
Vanderbilt

5.15
5.15
5.12
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.05
5.05
5.00
5.00
5.00
4.90
4.85
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.55
4.55
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

X
Ch.

C
OT, X, DNP
X
OT

OT
OT
OT
XX

OT
X, OT
OG
C

Demetrius Bell
Nate Garner
David Hale
Franklin Dunbar
Tyler Polumbus
Devin Clark
Corey Clark
Carnell Stewart
Shannon Boatman
Glenn Digger Bujnoch
David Shelby
Akim Millington
Charlie Emerson
Phillip Trautwein
Stephen Sene
Isaiah Wiggins
Edwin Harrison
Thaddeus Coleman
Dan Gore
Kyle Cunningham
Patrick Schwenke
Carlton Medder
Charles Norden
Mike Gyetvai
Sean Dumford
Dylan Thiry
David Overmeyer
Casey Tyler
Zach Krula
Peter Graniello
Floyd Headen
Chris Capps
Isaac Harris
Brandon Hale
Andrew Brecher
Cody Balogh
Edwin Pinigis
Joe Marafine
Christian Capote
Adam Decock
Peter Jensen
Nathaniel Richardson

5.10
5.09
5.09
5.05
5.00
4.95
4.90
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.

Ohio State
Virginia
Florida
Clemson
Miami (Fla.)
USC
Wake Forest
Iowa
Eastern Michigan
Virginia Tech
Michigan
Hampton
McNeese State
Georgia Tech
Texas Christian
Hampton
Arizona
Texas A&M
Texas Christian
Alabama
West Virginia
Utah
Buffalo
St. Augustines (N.C.)
Oregon State
Georgia Tech
Pittsburgh
Howard
Kansas State
Wheaton (Ill.)

6.80
6.75
6.30
6.20
6.10
5.90
5.70
5.55
5.55
5.50
5.40
5.40
5.39
5.39
5.25
5.20
5.20
5.20
5.15
5.13
5.12
5.10
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.07
5.05

X
Jr., OG
X
MI

OG
Age, X

X
XX

Age, X

DEFENSIVE ENDS

OFFENSIVE TACKLES
RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.

Michigan
Boise State
Pittsburgh
Vanderbilt
Boston College
USC
UTEP
Kansas
Nebraska
Virginia Tech
Auburn
USC
Oregon
California
Louisville
Clemson
Texas
Northern Iowa
San Diego State
Rutgers
Northern Iowa
Ohio State
Newberry (S.C.)

7.00
6.50
6.40
6.25
6.10
6.00
5.59
5.40
5.40
5.37
5.35
5.33
5.30
5.30
5.27
5.25
5.23
5.21
5.20
5.17
5.15
5.12
5.10

Jake Long
Ryan Clady
Jeffrey Otah
Chris Williams
Gosder Cherilus
Sam Baker
Oniel Cousins
Anthony Collins
Carl Nicks
Duane Brown
King Dunlap
Drew Radovich
Geoff Schwartz
Mike Gibson
Breno Giacomini
Barry Richardson
Tony Hills
Brandon Keith
Will Robinson
Pedro Sosa
Chad Rinehart
Kirk Barton
Heath Benedict

Northwestern State (La.)


Arkansas
Weber State
Middle Tennessee
Colorado
New Mexico
Texas A&M
LSU
Florida State
Cincinnati
Ohio
Illinois
Indiana
Florida
Liberty
Illinois State
Colorado
Mississippi Valley State
Boise State
Louisiana-Monroe
West Texas A&M
Florida
Miami (Ohio)
Michigan State
Eastern Kentucky
Northwestern
Florida State
Portland State
Arizona State
Arizona
West Texas A&M
Alabama
Mars Hill (N.C.)
Sam Houston State
Harvard
Montana
Liberty
Kent State
Clemson
Montana State
Montana State
South Carolina State

RK. NAME

OT
C
X
OT
C
OT
X
Jr.
OT

24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.

Jr.

X
OG
Jr.
Ch.
OG
OG
OG
LS
OG

X
OG
OT
OG

Vernon Gholston
Chris Long
Derrick Harvey
Phillip Merling
Calais Campbell
Lawrence Jackson
Jeremy Thompson
Kenny Iwebema
Jason Jones
Chris Ellis
Shawn Crable
Kendall Langford
Bryan Smith
Darrell Robertson
Tommy Blake
Marcus Dixon
Louis Holmes
Chris Harrington
Chase Ortiz
Wallace Gilberry
Johnny Dingle
Martail Burnett
Trevor Scott
Alex Hall
Dorian Smith
Adamm Oliver
Joe Clermond
Rudolph Hardie
Rob Jackson
Andy Studebaker

PLAYER PRINTOUT

3/5/08

Jr., OLB
Jr., OLB
Jr., DT
Jr.
OLB
X, OLB
DT
X, Ch.
OLB
DT
OLB
OLB
X, Ch., OLB
Ch.
Ch.

DT
Jr., Age
TE
PRS
PRS
OLB, Ch.

OLB, X

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

PLAYER PRINTOUT

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

3/5/08

PLAYER PRINTOUT

PLAYER PRINTOUT

192

7:32 PM

Page 192

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.

Brandon Miller
Greyson Gunheim
Bryan Mattison
Hilee Taylor
Casper Brinkley
Jeremy Geathers
Antonio Reynolds
Nick Osborn
Brian Johnston
Shaun Richardson
Kurt Hout
Amani Purcell
Jacob Owens
Derrick Gray
Keith Saunders
Vegas Franklin
Xavier Mitchell
Marque Fountain
Sherman Logan
Alex Boston
Martrel Brown
Nick Schlekeway
Jordin Lindsey
Blair Boynton
James Amos
Dallas Flynn
Chris Traylor
William Hayes
Robert Henderson

Georgia
Washington
Iowa
North Carolina
South Carolina
UNLV
Tennessee
San Diego State
Gardner-Webb
Tennessee State
Ferris State
Hawaii
Fairmont State
Texas Southern
Alabama
Miami (Fla.)
Tennessee
Oklahoma State
Richmond
Florida State
North Carolina State
Boise State
South Carolina
Northern Arizona
California-Davis
Northwest Missouri St.
Alabama A&M
Winston-Salem State
Southern Mississippi

5.05
5.05
5.00
4.85
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20

LB

OLB
OLB
Jr.

X, OLB

OLB
X
X
X

UCLA
Oregon
Troy
Louisville
Coastal Carolina
Southern Mississippi
Arizona State
Kent State
Virginia
Central Michigan
Central Florida
Tarleton State (Texas)
Lindenwood (Mo.)
California
James Madison
Minnesota
USC
Mississippi
Idaho State
Arizona
Washington
Washington State

4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

OG

NT

Age
NT

Ch., NT
X, NT
NT
DNP

Ch., NT

INSIDE LINEBACKERS
Ch.

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.

LSU
USC
North Carolina
Notre Dame
Arkansas
Auburn
Maryland
Florida State
Iowa State
Texas A&M
Texas
Florida State
North Carolina State
Wisconsin
Virginia Tech
Oregon
West Virginia
Michigan State
Rutgers
Texas
Virginia Tech
Arizona
Auburn
Fresno State
Tulane
Kansas
Ohio
Hawaii
Texas A&M
South Florida
New Mexico State
Rice
Miami (Fla.)
Maryland
Akron
Central Florida
Troy
Vanderbilt
Illinois
Mississippi
Washington State
Oklahoma
UCLA

7.00
6.50
6.00
5.85
5.55
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.45
5.45
5.37
5.35
5.33
5.20
5.15
5.15
5.13
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.00
5.00
4.90
4.90
4.90
4.85
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Kevin Brown
Jeremy Gibbs
Marcus Pittman
Willie Williams
Adrian Grady
Martavius Prince
Michael Marquardt
Colin Ferrell
Billy Allen
Steven Friend
Keith Shologan
Tywain Myles
Brian Schaefering
Matt Malele
John Baranowsky
Neel Allen
Chris Barrett
Brandon Jenkins
Viliami Akoteu
Yaniv Barnett
Jordan Reffett
Aaron Johnson

RK. NAME

DEFENSIVE TACKLES
Glenn Dorsey
Sedrick Ellis
Kentwan Balmer
Trevor Laws
Marcus Harrison
Pat Sims
Dre Moore
Andre Fluellen
Ahtyba Rubin
Joseph Red Bryant
Frank Okam
Letroy Guion
DeMario Pressley
Nick Hayden
Carlton Powell
David Faaeteete
Keilen Dykes
Ogemdi Nwagbuo
Eric Foster
Derek Lokey
Barry Booker
Lionel Dotson
Joshua Thompson
Jason Shirley
Frank Morton
James McClinton
Landon Cohen
Michael Lafaele
Henry Smith
Richard Clebert
Maurice Murray
George Chukwu
Teraz McCray
Carlos Feliciano
Nate Robinson
Leger Douzable
Chris Bradwell
Theo Horrocks
Christopher Norwell
Jeremy Garrett
Ropati Pitoitua
Steven Coleman
Brigham Harwell

44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.

X
NT
NT
DE
Ch., X
Jr., Ch.

NT
X, NT, Ch.
OT
Jr.

NT
NT, Ch.
X
NT

DT
X, NT
NT
NT
DE

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.

Oklahoma
UNLV
Syracuse
Arizona
Boston College
Vanderbilt
West Virginia
Alabama
South Florida
Illinois
Virginia Tech
Oklahoma State
Michigan State
UCLA
Connecticut
Michigan
Texas A&M
Notre Dame
Youngstown State
Jackson State
Central Michigan
Virginia
Fresno State
Nebraska
Delaware State
Tulsa
Houston
Iowa
Kansas State
Arkansas
Purdue
East Carolina
Norfolk State (Va.)
Air Force
North Dakota State
Portland State
Purdue
Western New Mexico
Northwest Missouri St.
Norfolk State (Va.)
Texas Southern
Minnesota

6.10
5.45
5.27
5.20
5.20
5.19
5.12
5.10
5.10
5.10
5.09
5.00
4.90
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.45
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

Curtis Lofton
James Beau Bell
Jameel McClain
Spencer Larsen
Jolonn Dunbar
Jonathan Goff
Marc Magro
Darren Mustin
Ben Moffitt
J Leman
Vince Hall
Rodrick Johnson
Kaleb Thornhill
Christian Taylor
Danny Lansanah
Chris Graham
Misiovala Tupe
Joe Brockington
James Terry
Daniel Brooks
Thomas Red Keith
Jermaine Dias
Ahijah Lane
Corey McKeon
Russell Reeves
Nelson Coleman
Trent Allen
Mike Klinkenborg
Justin Roland
Weston Dacus
Josh Ferguson
Fred Wilson
Marquez Davis
Drew Fowler
Joe Mays
Jordan Senn
Dan Bick
Christian Serena
Matt Robertson
Maguell Davis
Michael Boyd
Mike Sherels

Jr., X
OLB, X
DE
X
OLB

X
X
DE
X

Age
X
OLB
Ch.

OLB, XX
Ch., OLB

OLB

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
Ch.
OG
Ch.
X

RK. NAME
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Keith Rivers
Dan Connor
Erin Henderson
Cliff Avril
Xavier Adibi

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

USC
Penn State
Maryland
Purdue
Virginia Tech

6.30
5.95
5.80
5.75
5.70

ILB
Jr.
DE

7:32 PM

Page 193

193

2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.

Geno Hayes
Quentin Groves
Tavares Gooden
Jordon Dizon
Jerod Mayo
Ali Highsmith
Philip Wheeler
Curtis Gatewood
Bryan Kehl
Marcus Howard
Curtis Johnson
Gary Guyton
Wesley Woodyard
Stanford Keglar
Robert James
Ezra Butler
Alvin Bowen
Bruce Davis
Titus Brown
Larry Grant
Kroy Biermann
Marcus Buggs
Lamar Myles
Mike Humpal
Durell Mapp
Marcus Richardson
David Vobora
Steve Octavien
Thomas Williams
Anthony Hoke
Angelo Craig
Steve Allen
Shane Simmons
Nick Watkins
Matt Castelo
Brian Bradford
Kelly Poppinga
Jeremy Jones
Malik Jackson
Shonda Faulkner
Brannon Carter
Donovan Woods
Bo Ruud
Marcus Riley
Jonal St. Dic
Ernest Jones
Henti Baird II
Robert Killebrew
Jon Banks
Brandon Ogletree
Le Rue Rumph
Curtis Terry
Erik Walden
Luke Sanders
Lance Brandenburgh
Brendan Pahulu
Patrick Bailey
Rico Brooks
Scott Derry
Sir Darean Adams
Dan Howell
Nick Moore
John Rabold
Ronnie McCullough
Derrick Ray

Florida State
Auburn
Miami (Fla.)
Colorado
Tennessee
LSU
Georgia Tech
Vanderbilt
Brigham Young
Georgia
Clark Atlanta
Georgia Tech
Kentucky
Purdue
Arizona State
Nevada
Iowa State
UCLA
Mississippi State
Ohio State
Montana
Vanderbilt
Louisville
Iowa
North Carolina
Troy
Idaho
Nebraska
USC
Cincinnati
Cincinnati
West Texas A&M
Western Washington
Clemson
San Jose State
Towson
Brigham Young
UTEP
Louisville
Indiana State
Northern Iowa
Oklahoma State
Nebraska
Fresno State
Michigan State
North Carolina State
Hampton
Texas
Iowa State
Idaho
North Carolina State
Ohio State
Middle Tennessee
LSU
Nebraska
Houston
Duke
Eastern Arizona
Texas
Michigan State
Washington
Baylor
Air Force
Bethune-Cookman
North Carolina Central

5.65
5.65
5.60
5.59
5.59
5.50
5.40
5.35
5.33
5.30
5.30
5.30
5.25
5.25
5.23
5.20
5.20
5.20
5.15
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.05
5.05
5.05
5.00
5.00
5.00
4.95
4.95
4.85
4.80
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.30
4.30
4.30

Jr., Ch.
DE, Ch.
X, ILB
ILB
Jr., ILB

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

DE
DE
DE
ILB

X, S
Ch.
DE
DE
DE
Jr.
X

X
FB
DE
DE, Ch.
ILB, Ch.
X, ILB
ILB
ILB
ILB, Age
X
Ch.

SS
XX
DE
S

X
DE, PRS

DE, X
Soph-3
Ch.

CORNERBACKS
RK. NAME
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Leodis McKelvin
Troy
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie Tennessee State
Mike Jenkins
South Florida
Aqib Talib
Kansas
Patrick Lee
Auburn
Reggie Smith
Oklahoma
Tyvon Branch
Connecticut

6.30
6.20
6.10
6.05
5.90
5.85
5.70

X, RS
KR
Ch., KR
Jr., WR, Ch.
Jr., S, RS
S

8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.

Brandon Flowers
Charles Godfrey
Justin King
Tracy Porter
Antoine Cason
Terrell Thomas
Chevis Jackson
Jack Williams
Jack Ikegwuonu
Orlando Scandrick
Terrence Wheatley
Trae Williams
DeJuan Tribble
Michael Grant
Reggie Corner
Antwaun Molden
DeMichael Dizer
Justin Tryon
Jonathan Wilhite
Marcus Walker
Dwight Lowery
Zackary Bowman
Trey Brown
Darnell Terrell
Justin McKinney
Isaiah Gardner
Alton Widemon
Brandon Sumrall
Jonathan Zenon
Jerrid Gaines
Brian Witherspoon
Glenn Sharpe
Wilrey Fontenot
Andre Jones
Denatay Heard
Matterral Richardson
Brandon Jackson
Martel Van Zant
James Thabuteau
Roy Lewis
Chris Parker
Chris Baloney
Brandon Jones
Ambrose Wooden
Coye Francies
Thomas Flowers
Jimmie Sutton
Marcus Brown
Stanley Franks
Brandon Carr
Steven Williams
Michael Medina
Lionell Singleton
Craig Turner
Rodney Van
Terrell Vinson
Leslie Majors
Paul Pratt
Demario Bobo
Damon Jenkins
Al Phillips
Julius Stinson
Derrick Huff
Courtney Grixby
Toney Stewart
Eric Gray
Brandon Foster
Roland Minor
Stephon Rhea
Donovan Alexander
Michael Hinton
Michael Beach
Quintez Secka
Travis Williams
Josh Bell

Virginia Tech
Iowa
Penn State
Indiana
Arizona
USC
LSU
Kent State
Wisconsin
Boise State
Colorado
South Florida
Boston College
Arkansas
Akron
Eastern Kentucky
Grambling State
Arizona State
Auburn
Oklahoma
San Jose State
Nebraska
UCLA
Missouri
Kansas State
Maryland
Baylor
Southern Mississippi
LSU
Miami (Ohio)
Stillman (Ala.)
Miami (Fla.)
Arizona
Nebraska
Stillman (Ala.)
Arkansas
Georgia Southern
Oklahoma State
Truman State (Mo.)
Washington
Texas Tech
Arizona State
SMU
Notre Dame
Oregon State
Georgia
North Carolina State
McNeese State
Idaho
Grand Valley State
Harvard
Wyoming
Florida International
Southern Illinois
UCLA
Purdue
Indiana
Nevada
Mississippi State
Fresno State
Wagner
Wyoming
Eastern Kentucky
Nebraska
Texas Christian
Alabama
Texas
Virginia Tech
Stephen F. Austin
North Dakota
Mankato State (Minn.)
Montana State
Louisiana-Monroe
East Carolina
Baylor

5.60
5.55
5.55
5.50
5.50
5.45
5.39
5.37
5.35
5.35
5.33
5.33
5.30
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.23
5.20
5.20
5.20
5.17
5.13
5.12
5.10
5.10
5.05
5.05
5.05
5.05
5.00
5.00
5.00
5.00
4.85
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20

Jr.
FS
Jr., PR
PR
FS, PR
X
X
Jr., 5.8-X
Jr., Ch.
X
Ch., X
X, FS

X
X
XX
FS
X
SS

RS
XX

RS
Jr.

PLAYER PRINTOUT

3/5/08

RS, DNP, Ch.

RS

X
Jr.
X

Ch.

PR

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

PLAYER PRINTOUT

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

PLAYER PRINTOUT 2008 LO

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2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.

Kyle Arrington
Darren Toney
Jerome Touchstone
Tim Sims
Lawrence J.R. Bryant
Octavius Love
Anthony Hailstock

Hofstra
Arkansas State
Appalachian State
Stanford
Florida State
Tusculum
Virginia State

4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.

Miami (Fla.)
Arkansas State
Arizona State
Notre Dame
Michigan
LSU
Oklahoma
Missouri
Virginia
Michigan State
Army
Oregon State
Boston College
Syracuse
UCLA
Texas Christian
Central Michigan
Florida
Eastern Washington
Purdue
Boise State
Oklahoma
West Virginia
Georgia
Rutgers
Georgia Tech
Michigan State
Miami (Fla.)
James Madison
Auburn
Louisiana-Lafayette
Clemson
Hawaii
Louisiana Tech
California
Louisville
Air Force
Houston
North Texas
Akron
Pittsburgh
North Carolina
Youngstown State
Tulsa
Grambling State
Texas Tech
South Carolina

5.80
5.60
5.59
5.40
5.30
5.25
5.20
5.20
5.15
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.05
4.90
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.65
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.30
4.30
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

North Carolina State


California
UTEP
Minnesota
Texas Christian
Pittsburgh
Nicholls State
Virginia Tech
Tennessee
UCLA
Texas
Appalachian State
Alabama
Washington State
Syracuse

5.75
5.55
5.30
5.21
5.20
5.20
5.15
5.13
5.12
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.07
5.05

Ch.

PLAYER PRINTOUT

STRONG SAFETIES
Kenny Phillips
Marcellous Tyrell Johnson
Josh Barrett
Thomas Zbikowski
Jamar Adams
Craig Steltz
D.J. Wolfe
Cornelius Brown
Nathan Lyles
Nehemiah Warrick
Caleb Campbell
Derrick Doggett
Jamie Silva
Dowayne Davis
Chris Horton
Brian Bonner
Ike Brown
Tony Joiner
Terry Mixon
Justin Scott
Marty Tadman
Darien Williams
Eric Wicks
Kelin Johnson
Ron Girault
Jamal Lewis
Travis Key
Willie Cooper
Tony Lezotte
Eric Brock
Lamar Morgan
Tramaine Billie
Jacob Patek
Mark Dillard
Brandon Hampton
Johnathan Russell
Bobby Giannini
Paul Rocky Schwartz
Aaron Weathers
John Mackey
Mike Phillips
Trimane Goddard
Vince Gliatta
Steve Craver
Zaire Wilborn
Joe Garcia
Chris Hampton

Jr.

PR
X
CB
X
X
X
OLB
SS
X
PR
X, OLB
Ch.
Jr., Ch., X

OLB
FS
XX
X, OLB
Ch.
CB
FS
X

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

PLAYER PRINTOUT

16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.

Dominic Patrick
Kevin Mitchell
Marcus Watts
Bobbie Williams
Roger Williams
Haruki Nakamura
Miguel Scott
Brandent Englemon
Marcus Carter
Erick Jackson
Matthew Harper
Chris Davis
Brandon Issac
Djay Jones
Lemar Herron
Bobby Tatum
Roy Loren
Ryan Mundy
Gregor Smith
Avery Roberson
Jose Yearwood
Justin Harrison
Justin Sanders
Darrick Brown
Christian Varner

5.05
5.05
4.95
4.80
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.70
4.60
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.40
4.40
4.40
4.20
4.20
4.20

RK. NAME

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.

North Carolina State


Georgia
Louisville
Oklahoma
Wisconsin
St. Xavier (Ill.)
Oregon State
North Carolina
Virginia
Rutgers
Northern Illinois
South Dakota State
California
Kansas Wesleyan
Iowa State
Louisiana-Monroe
Appalachian State
Hofstra
North Carolina Central

5.25
5.10
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.09
5.05
4.90
4.90
4.90
4.90
4.80
4.80
4.75
4.70
4.50
4.40
4.30
4.30

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

Georgia Tech
North Dakota State
Toledo
Kansas State
California
Wisconsin
Army
Kansas
Fordham
San Jose State
Boston College
Idaho State
Lindenwood (Mo.)
Texas State
Western Michigan
Nevada

5.40
5.10
5.05
5.00
4.95
4.90
4.85
4.80
4.75
4.70
4.60
4.50
4.50
4.30
4.30
4.30

SCHOOL

GRADE NOTES

Indiana
San Diego State
Florida State
Dixie State (Utah)
Miami (Fla.)

4.95
4.80
4.70
4.60
4.30

CB

RS
XX, CB
X

DNP
X

PLACEKICKERS
Steven Hauschka
Brandon Coutu
Art Carmody
Garrett Hartley
Taylor Mehlhaff
Shane Longest
Alexis Serna
Connor Barth
Chris Gould
Jeremy Ito
Chris Nendick
Parker Douglass
Thomas Schneider
Troy Van Blarcom
Bret Culbertson
Cole Wilson
Julian Rauch
Robert Zarrilli
Brandon Gilbert

P, KO

P, KO
P

Jr.

PUNTERS

OLB

FREE SAFETIES
DaJuan Morgan
Thomas DeCoud
Quintin Demps
Dominique Barber
David Roach
Kennard Cox
Kareem Moore
D.J. Parker
Jonathan Hefney
Dennis Keyes
Marcus Griffin
Corey Lynch
Simeon Castille
Husain Abdullah
Joe Fields

Arizona
Illinois
Kansas State
Bethun Cookman
Florida State
Cincinnati
North Carolina State
Michigan
Alabama
Texas
Oregon
Duke
South Carolina
Georgia Tech
Texas Southern
Abilene Christian
North Texas
West Virginia
Eastern Washington
Georgia Tech
Brown
Illinois
Illinois
McNeese State
Maryland

RK. NAME

KR

Jr., CB
X
PR
X
CB

CB, RS

Durant Brooks
Mike Dragosavich
Brett Kern
Tim Reyer
Andrew Larson
Ken Debauche
Owen Tolson
Kyle Tucker
Benjamin Dato
Waylon Prather
John Ayers
Daniel Zeidman
Zac Atterberry
Chris MacDonald
Jim Laney
Zacary Whited

LONG-SNAPPERS
RK. NAME

CB

PK

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Timothy Bugg
Tyler Schmitt
Garisson Sanborn
Chase Norton
John Rochford

MI

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2008 DRAFT PREVIEW


BEST AVAILABLE ATHLETES / REGARDLESS OF POSITION
7.00
7.00
7.00
6.80
6.75
6.50
6.50
6.50
6.40
6.40
6.30
6.30
6.30
6.25
6.25
6.25
6.20
6.20
6.15
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.05
6.01
6.00
6.00
5.95
5.95
5.90
5.90
5.90
5.85
5.85
5.85
5.85
5.80
5.80
5.80
5.80
5.75
5.75
5.75
5.75
5.70
5.70
5.70
5.70
5.70
5.65
5.65
5.65
5.65
5.65
5.65
5.60
5.60
5.60
5.60
5.59
5.59
5.59
5.59
5.59
5.59
5.59
5.55
5.55
5.55
5.55
5.55
5.55

QB Matt Ryan, Boston College


OT Jake Long, Michigan
DT Glenn Dorsey, LSU
DE Vernon Gholston, Ohio State
DE Chris Long, Virginia
OT Ryan Clady, Boise State
RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon
DT Sedrick Ellis, USC
RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas
OT Jeffrey Otah, Pittsburgh
CB Leodis McKelvin, Troy
DE Derrick Harvey, Florida
OLB Keith Rivers, USC
OG Branden Albert, Virginia
OT Chris Williams, Vanderbilt
RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois
DE Phillip Merling, Clemson
CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tenn. St.
WR Limas Sweed, Texas
OT Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
DE Calais Campbell, Miami (Fla.)
WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State
ILB Curtis Lofton, Oklahoma
WR Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma
CB Mike Jenkins, South Florida
RB Felix Jones, Arkansas
CB Aqib Talib, Kansas
WR Mario Manningham, Michigan
OT Sam Baker, USC
DT Kentwan Balmer, North Carolina
WR James Hardy, Indiana
OLB Dan Connor, Penn State
DE Lawrence Jackson, USC
WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State
CB Patrick Lee, Auburn
TE Dustin Keller, Purdue
DT Trevor Laws, Notre Dame
CB Reggie Smith, Oklahoma
WR Early Doucet, LSU
TE Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M
QB Chad Henne, Michigan
OLB Erin Henderson, Maryland
SS Kenny Phillips, Miami (Fla.)
FS DaJuan Morgan, North Carolina State
QB Brian Brohm, Louisville
OLB Cliff Avril, Purdue
WR DeSean Jackson, California
DE Jeremy Thompson, Wake Forest
TE John Carlson, Notre Dame
OLB Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech
WR Andre Bubba Caldwell, Florida
CB Tyvon Branch, Connecticut
TE Fred Davis, USC
OLB Geno Hayes, Florida State
WR Dexter Jackson, Appalachian State
OLB Quentin Groves, Auburn
RB Ray Rice, Rutgers
WR Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
CB Brandon Flowers, Virginia Tech
RB Matt Fort, Tulane
OLB Tavares Gooden, Miami (Fla.)
SS Marcellous Tyrell Johnson, Arkansas St.
SS Josh Barrett, Arizona State
OT Oniel Cousins, UTEP
TE Craig Stevens, California
OLB Jordon Dizon, Colorado
WR Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt
OLB Jerod Mayo, Tennessee
RB Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
DE Kenny Iwebema, Iowa
TE Brad Cottam, Tennessee
QB Joe Flacco, Delaware
DE Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan
OG Chilo Rachal, USC
DT Marcus Harrison, Arkansas

X
Jr., OLB
Jr.
Jr., KR
NT
Jr., Ch.
X, RS
Jr., OLB
Jr., OT
Jr.
Jr., DT
KR
X
Jr.
Jr.
Jr., X
Jr.
Ch., KR
Jr., KR
Jr., WR, Ch.
Jr., Ch.
X
NT
Jr., Ch.
ILB
OLB
PR
X, H-B
DE
Jr., S, RS
PR
Jr., Ch.
X
Jr.
Jr.
Jr., CB
X
DE
Jr., RS, X, Ch.
X, OLB

KR, X
S
Ch.
Jr., Ch.
RS
DE, Ch.
Jr., X
RS
Jr.
FB
X, ILB

OG
ILB
Jr.
Jr., ILB
X
X
DT
Jr.
Ch., X

76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
97.
98.
99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.
105.
106.
107.
108.
109.
110.
111.
112.
113.
114.
115.
116.
117.
118.
119.
120.
121.
122.
123.
124.
125.
126.
127.
128.
129.
130.
131.
132.
133.
134.
135.
136.
137.
138.
139.
140.
141.
142.
143.
144.
145.
146.
147.
148.
149.
150.

FS Thomas DeCoud, California


CB Charles Godfrey, Iowa
CB Justin King, Penn State
RB Jamaal Charles, Texas
DE Chris Ellis, Virginia Tech
CB Tracy Porter, Indiana
RB Chris Johnson, East Carolina
CB Antoine Cason, Arizona
DT Pat Sims, Auburn
TE Martin Rucker, Missouri
DT Dre Moore, Maryland
C Mike Pollak, Arizona State
DT Andre Fluellen, Florida State
RB Kevin Smith, Central Florida
OLB Ali Highsmith, LSU
WR Donnie Avery, Houston
CB Terrell Thomas, USC
DT Ahtyba Rubin, Iowa State
QB Andre Woodson, Kentucky
DT Joseph Red Bryant, Texas A&M
ILB James Beau Bell, UNLV
RB Steve Slaton, West Virginia
WR Josh Morgan, Virginia Tech
DE Shawn Crable, Michigan
WR Jerome Simpson, Coastal Carolina
OT Anthony Collins, Kansas
DE Kendall Langford, Hampton
OT Carl Nicks, Nebraska
OG Roy Schuening, Oregon State
OLB Philip Wheeler, Georgia Tech
OG John Greco, Toledo
P Durant Brooks, Georgia Tech
SS Thomas Zbikowski, Notre Dame
DE Bryan Smith, McNeese State
QB John David Booty, USC
DE Darrell Robertson, Georgia Tech
WR William Franklin, Missouri
TE Kellen Davis, Michigan State
TE Jermichael Finley, Texas
C Jeremy Zuttah, Rutgers
QB Erik Ainge, Tennessee
CB Chevis Jackson, LSU
RB Thomas Brown, Georgia
OT Duane Brown, Virginia Tech
CB Jack Williams, Kent State
OG Mike McGlynn, Pittsburgh
DT Frank Okam, Texas
TE Jacob Tamme, Kentucky
WR Justin Harper, Virginia Tech
QB Josh Johnson, San Diego
OT King Dunlap, Auburn
OG Mackenzy Bernadeau, Bentley (Mass.)
WR Marcus Smith, New Mexico
OG Donald Thomas, Connecticut
FB Jacob Hester, LSU
RB Mike Hart, Michigan
TE Gary Barnidge, Louisville
DT Letroy Guion, Florida State
C John Sullivan, Notre Dame
CB Jack Ikegwuonu, Wisconsin
OLB Curtis Gatewood, Vanderbilt
CB Orlando Scandrick, Boise State
OT Drew Radovich, USC
QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon
OLB Bryan Kehl, Brigham Young
WR Kenneth Moore, Wake Forest
CB Terrence Wheatley, Colorado
DT DeMario Pressley, North Carolina State
CB Trae Williams, South Florida
C Steve Justice, Wake Forest
OT Geoff Schwartz, Oregon
OLB Marcus Howard, Georgia
OT Mike Gibson, California
OLB Curtis Johnson, Clark Atlanta
C Kory Lichtensteiger, Bowling Green

5.55
5.55
5.55
5.55
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.50
5.45
5.45
5.45
5.45
5.45
5.45
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.40
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.39
5.37
5.37
5.37
5.37
5.37
5.37
5.37
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.35
5.33
5.33
5.33
5.33
5.33
5.33
5.33
5.30
5.30
5.30
5.30
5.30
5.30

X
FS
Jr., PR
Jr., KR
X, Ch.
PR
X, WR, KR
FS, PR
Jr., Ch.

Jr.

X
NT
X, NT, Ch.
OLB, X
Jr., Ch.
Ch.
OLB
Jr.
DT
Ch.

OT
PR
OLB
OLB
Ch.
Soph-3
OT
X
X, E
OG
X
X, OT, LS
OT
H-B, LS

PLAYER PRINTOUT

GRADE NOTES

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.

OG
X

RB
H-B
Jr.
OG
Jr., 5.8-X
DE
Jr., Ch.
OG
ATH, WR, X
RB
X

LS
DE
OG
DE

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

PLAYER PRINTOUT

RK. POS, NAME, SCHOOL

GLOSSARY 2008 LO

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2:42 PM

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Page 196

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GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
Anchor the ability to hold ones ground and not be
moved.
Backed-off man coverage man-on-man pass coverage in which the defensive back lines up several yards off
the line of scrimmage. Its the opposite of press coverage or
bump-and-run coverage.
Ball skills refers to how well a player reacts to the ball
when its in the air; natural instinctiveness for the ball.
Bandit combination safety-linebacker.
Bird-dog a quarterbacks tendency to keep his eyes
glued on an intended receiver throughout his pattern, rather
than looking away from him and toward different receivers.
Bird-dogging tends to tip off the defensive players as to
where the pass will be thrown.
Blind side the side of the backfield on which the quarterback has less-than-optimal vision when setting to throw;
the side opposite from his throwing arm.
Block-down tackling type of tackling in which the tackler takes down a ballcarrier with a shoulder block, as
opposed to form, wrap-up tackling.
Blocky bulky, thick body.
Body catches when a receiver cradles the ball against
his body rather than snatching it cleanly out of the air with his
hands.
Body lean a player with good body lean runs with his
body leaning forward so that he falls forward when tackled.
Break down get into the proper position to make a
tackle or block.
Bring his feet along with him keep his feet underneath him when blocking.
Bubble butt large buttocks and thigh area; considered
a positive.
Bull-rush straight-ahead, power rush.
Carries his pads well doesnt let his pads interfere
with his speed, agility, etc.
Center fielder a safety whos given the freedom to
roam the field, or one whos adept at doing so.
Chops stride refers to a receiver who cuts down on his
stride before making a break on a pattern.
Climb the ladder jump high for a pass.
Combination block block on one defender carried out
in unison by two offensive linemen.
Combine refers to the Scouting Combine held each
February in Indianapolis, at which draft prospects are given
medical and skill exams.
Come to balance Chopping feet and breaking down
from full speed often to make a tackle or block.
Contact balance a player with good contact balance
often maintains his balance despite contact with an opponent.
Cut/Cut-block block below the knees; defensive linemen who frequently get cut are, in other words, having difficulty avoiding cut blocks.
Cuts through trash moves well around pileups of players to make plays.
Dime situational pass defense featuring six defensive
backs.
Does not play to his timed speed does not play as
fast as his 40-time would suggest.
Double catches bobbles the ball and then catches it,
rather than snatching it cleanly.
Down block a block thrown from the outside across a
defenders feet to cut off his pursuit angle, as opposed to a
straight-ahead block.
Drop outside linebacker an OLB who drops into coverage to defend against a pass.
Edge pass rusher outside rusher.
Flashes shows ability sporadically.
Flattens out turns in on the quarterback.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Flips his hips how a player turns his hips.


Fluid in the hips player can turn his body with a fluid
motion.
Foot athlete refers to how athletic a player is with his
foot movements.
Fringe player in defensive terminology, it refers to a
player whos always on the fringe of the action but never in
the midst of the heavy hitting. From a roster standpoint, it
refers to a player who will have a difficult time making a
team.
Gathers to cut see Chops stride.
Gets through trash moves well around pileups of players to make plays.
Gets walked back gets pushed back by a defender.
Gunner furthest outside position on special teams. Typically the first man downfield to cover a kick.
Hand punch the way an offensive lineman punches
with his hands when blocking an opponent.
Hangs in plant refers to a defensive back who hesitates in planting his feet and driving on the ball.
Hang time the length of time that elapses from when
the ball comes off a kickers foot until it touches a player or
the ground.
High-cut high-waisted; having long legs and a short
upper body.
High-pin technique a blocking technique in which an
offensive lineman tries to pin his man in an upright position.
Highpoint the ball getting to the ball at its highest
point.
Hip snap the way a player comes off the snap of the
ball.
Home-run hitter one who is capable of breaking a big
play.
Hook the action of a lineman positioning himself in front
of a defender and preventing him from getting outside, often
done by a tight end on an outside linebacker.
I & I instincts and intelligence.
In space/In air in an open area of the field; usually on
the defensive side of the ball.
Juke elusive move to avoid a tackler.
Keeps his feet clean keeps blockers away from his
feet and keeps his feet from getting tangled up in a mass of
bodies.
Key and diagnose read the keys of a developing play
and diagnose what is about to happen.
Killer a positive in a football sense in that it refers to a
very aggressive player with a mean streak.
Knee-bender a player who bends his knees rather than
his waist; usually considered a positive.
Light in the pegs skinny legs.
Long acceleration/Long gear the ability of a player to
run faster the farther he goes, as opposed to those who can
run fast for only a short distance.
Long-strider a player who takes long steps instead of
quick ones and, thus, tends to move slower into and out of
his breaks.
Loose hips flexible quality; a positive.
Low-block shield the ability of a defensive player to
keep blockers away from his knees.
Lower unit lower body.
Man-off coverage man-on-man pass coverage when a
defender is backed off the line of scrimmage, as opposed to
tight bump-and-run coverage.
Mike middle linebacker.
Mirror shadow; stay in front of.
Motor refers to a players degree of intensity on the
field.
NCAA Clearinghouse the body that makes final decisions regarding a players eligibility.

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Nickel situational pass defense featuring five defensive
backs.
Nifty agile.
Nubs type of shoe that usually improves a players
speed for timing purposes.
On the hoof Initial impression of player based on first
glance.
Pad level the height and angle of a players pads during the course of action.
Pick and slide the ability to see blocks and pick holes
as a runner.
Pins legs.
Plays center field the freedom given to a safety to
roam the field, or a safety whos adept at doing so.
Plays down plays from a three- or four-point stance
rather than a stand-up position.
Plays high/Plays tall plays too upright, allowing an
opponent to get underneath him; usually refers to a lineman.
Plays over (or on) his feet/Plays over his pads plays
with a good base or with weight balanced, so as not to
overextend.
Planet person there are very few people on this planet who are that big and yet can play football at a high level.
Plays the piano plays up and down the line of scrimmage laterally, as opposed to up and down the field vertically.
Plays until he hears glass break wont stop until the
play is blown dead.
Plays with heavy hands has a forceful hand punch
that will jar an opponent.
Plays with his pads too high plays too upright, causing him to lose leverage.
Plays within himself plays within his ability.
Plays with light hands has no force with his hand
punch; considered a negative for a lineman.
Power train Lower and central body as it relates to
football playing strength.
Press coverage refers to a defensive back lining up on
the line of scrimmage (i.e., bump-and-run coverage).
Press on blockers refers to a defensive lineman pressing on offensive linemen to keep them away from his body.
Progression reads system most clubs use whereby
the quarterback, in deciding which receiver to throw to, reads
defensive keys in a specific sequence, such as beginning
downfield and then progressing back toward the line of
scrimmage, or vice versa.
Project a player who will require substantial practice
time before he is capable of playing regularly in the NFL.
Projection pick a player who may be selected to play
a position other than the one he generally played in college.
Quick-hipped can turn his hips quickly.
Quick-twitch player A quick reactor. Meaning stems
from the quick-twitch muscle fiber that makes players explosive.
R and R ability to read and react.
Rag-dolled tossed around.
Repetitions/Reps the act of repeating various movements and techniques in practice to hone ones skills.
Road grader A very wide-bodied, powerful blocker.
Run-down player one who is best-suited to play only
on running downs.
Run-down speed the speed necessary to catch a player from behind.
Runs behind pads runs with good form; i.e., with a
good base, good balance and without overextending.
Runs north-south runs toward the goal line rather
than laterally.
Run-through linebacker a linebacker who tends to run
through gaps, as opposed to taking on blockers.
Run through the ball catch the ball without breaking
stride.
Sam strong-side linebacker.
Scope refers to an arthroscopy, which is the visual
examination of the interior of a joint with a special surgical
instrument. It usually involves a shorter recovery time than
more invasive surgery methods.

Scrape and sift the way in which a linebacker will avoid


blockers, as opposed to taking them on.
Second level down the field.
See through blocks the ability of a defensive lineman
to see beyond a block and react to what is coming.
Sell out to sacrifice ones body.
Separate/Separation ability of a receiver to put distance between himself and the defender on a pass pattern.
Shake-and-bake quick, elusive moves.
Slew-footed Feet point slightly outward.
Slide move laterally.
Small-area player a player who is effective only when
responsible for a limited area of the field.
Smashmouth physical style of play.
Split guard/Split tackle a player who lines up on the
wide side of the field. (In college football, the ball is spotted
at hashmarks closer to the sidelines than in the NFL, which
makes for a greater disparity in the distance from the spot of
the ball to each of the two sidelines.)
Split high Long legs, shorter upper body.
Stack a defensive alignment in which one or more linebackers play directly in back of the defensive linemen, so as
to help them.
Stack and shed to take on a blocker, locate the ball
and disengage.
Stack the point to hold the point of attack and not get
pushed back.
Stay frontal stay in front of opponent.
Straight-line player one who is effective running in a
straight line but has trouble making cuts.
Strong side the side of the offensive line where the
tight end is lined up, making for more inline blockers than on
the opposite (weak) side.
Swingman one who can play more than one position.
Take on and shed a defensive players ability to take
on a blocker and defeat him, as opposed to running around
him.
Tilt see Body lean.
Top-end speed long-distance speed (beyond 20
yards).
Transition usually refers to the point at which a defensive back comes out of his backpedal and switches to a
sprint to cover a receiver going deep. The more smoothly a
DB can make this transition, the more likely he will maintain
tight coverage.
Triangle numbers size, speed and strength.
Tweener player whose projected position in the NFL
falls in a gray area between two positions, such as defensive
end and outside linebacker.
Two-deep zone type of zone coverage in which each
safety is responsible for half of the deep portion of the field.
This type of coverage requires a safety to have a lot of range
so he can cover receivers going to the deep outside of the
secondary.
Two-gap refers to the ability of a defensive lineman to
cover two gaps in the offensive line.
Uncovered/Protected/vs. air when a player has no
opponent lined up directly across from him, such as an outside linebacker when no tight end is across from him.
Waist-bender a player who bends at the waist rather
than at the knees; its usually considered a negative.
Walk off on coverage moving outside of his normal
position to cover another player; a linebacker sometimes will
walk off on coverage to cover a running back split wide.
Wall off to use ones body as a shield, rather than
drive-blocking through an opponent, to create a wall so the
defense cant get through to the ballcarrier.
Weak side the side of the offensive line without a tight
end, which contains fewer inline blockers than the opposite
(strong) side.
Will weak-side linebacker.
Will cock before he throws refers to an offensive lineman cocking his arm before he delivers a run block; generally considered wasted motion.
Work the edges on the rush when a defensive lineman works the fringes instead of attacking straight ahead.
w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

GLOSSARY

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GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY 2008 LO

PLAYER INDEX 2008 LO

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PLAYER INDEX
PLAYER, SCHOOL ..........................PAGE

PLAYER INDEX

Abdullah, Husain, Washington State ......142


Adams, Chester, Georgia ..........................73
Adams, Jamar, Michigan..........................142
Adibi, Xavier, Virginia Tech ......................121
Ainge, Erik, Tennessee ................................6
Albert, Branden, Virginia............................73
Allen, Steve, West Texas A&M ................121
Alridge, Anthony, Houston ........................39
Amendola, Danny, Texas Tech ..................39
Anderson, L.J., Central Florida..................74
Arrington, Adrian, Michigan ......................40
Arthur, Jabari, Akron..................................40
Atchison, Andrew, William & Mary ............64
Avery, Donnie, Houston ............................40
Avril, Cliff, Purdue ....................................122
Baker, Sam, USC ......................................74
Ball, Lance, Maryland ................................18
Balmer, Kentwan, North Carolina ..............96
Banks, Gary, Troy ......................................41
Banks, James, Carson-Newman (Tenn.) ....41
Barber, Dominique, Minnesota ................143
Barnidge, Gary, Louisville ..........................64
Barrett, Josh, Arizona State ....................143
Barton, Kirk, Ohio State ............................75
Bell, Beau, UNLV ....................................122
Bell, Demetrius, Northwestern State ........75
Benedict, Heath, Newberry (S.C.) ............75
Bennett, Cole, Auburn................................65
Bennett, Earl, Vanderbilt ............................41
Bennett, Martellus, Texas A&M..................65
Bernadeau, Mackenzy, Bentley (Mass.) ....75
Bernard, Yvenson, Oregon State ..............18
Bess, Davone, Hawaii................................42
Betschart, Wade, Wyoming........................65
Biermann, Kroy, Montana ........................123
Bishop, Adam, Nevada ..............................65
Blackman, Darrell, North Carolina State....42
Blair, James, Western Michigan ................76
Blake, Tommy, TCU....................................96
Blythe, Todd, Iowa State ............................42
Boatman, Shannon, Florida State ............76
Bonner, Brian, TCU..................................143
Booker, Barry, Virginia Tech ......................97
Booker, John, San Jose State ..................76
Booty, John David, USC ..............................7
Bowen, Alvin, Iowa State ........................123
Bowman, Adarius, Oklahoma State ..........43
Bowman, Zackary, Nebraska ..................144
Boyd, Cory, South Carolina ......................19
Bracey, Greg, Missouri ..............................43
Bradford, Brian, Towson ..........................123
Bradford, Mark, Stanford............................43
Branch, Tyvon, Connecticut ....................144
Breazell, Brandon, UCLA ..........................44
Brennan, Colt, Hawaii ..................................7
Brink, Alex, Washington State ....................8
Brittingham, Jamar, Bloomsburg (Pa.) ......19
Brohm, Brian, Louisville ..............................8
Brooks, Durant, Georgia Tech..................169

Brown, Chris, Tennessee ..........................66


Brown, Cornelius, Missouri......................144
Brown, Duane, Virginia Tech......................76
Brown, Ike, Central Michigan ..................145
Brown, Keith, Alabama ..............................44
Brown, Kerry, Appalachian State ..............77
Brown, Thomas, Georgia ..........................19
Brown, Titus, Mississippi State ..................97
Brown, Travis, New Mexico ........................44
Brown, Trey, UCLA ..................................145
Bryant, Dorien, Purdue ..............................44
Bryant, Joseph Red, Texas A&M ............97
Bugg, Tim, Indiana ..................................169
Buggs, Marcus, Vanderbilt ......................123
Bujnoch, Glenn Digger, Cincinnati ..........77
Bumpus, Michael, Washington State ........45
Burnett, Martail, Utah ................................98
Burton, Keenan, Kentucky ........................45
Butler, Ezra, Nevada................................124
Caldwell, Andre Bubba, Florida ..............46
Callender, Andre, Boston College..............20
Campbell, Calais, Miami (Fla.) ..................98
Campbell, Caleb, Army............................145
Carlson, John, Notre Dame ......................66
Carmody, Art, Louisville ..........................169
Carter, Patrick, Louisville ..........................46
Carvalho, Brennen, Portland State ............77
Cason, Antoine, Arizona ..........................146
Castelo, Matt, San Jose State ................124
Castille, Simeon, Alabama ......................146
Caulcrick, Jehuu, Michigan State ..............20
Charles, Jamaal, Texas..............................20
Cherilus, Gosder, Boston College..............77
Choice, Tashard, Georgia Tech..................21
Chukwu, George, Rice ..............................98
Clady, Ryan, Boise State ..........................78
Clark, Corey, Texas A&M ..........................78
Clark, Devin, New Mexico..........................78
Clebert, Richard, South Florida ................99
Clermond, Joe, Pittsburgh ........................99
Cohen, Landon, Ohio ................................99
Coleman, Marcus, Wisconsin ....................79
Collins, Anthony, Kansas ..........................80
Collins, Jed, Washington State ..................66
Connor, Dan, Penn State ........................124
Corner, Reggie, Akron ............................146
Cottam, Brad, Tennessee ..........................67
Cousins, Oniel, UTEP................................80
Coutu, Brandon, Georgia ........................169
Cowan, Joe, UCLA ....................................46
Cox, Brandon, Auburn ................................9
Cox, Kennard, Pittsburgh ........................147
Cox, Mike, Georgia Tech............................21
Crable, Shawn, Michigan ..........................99
Craig, Angelo, Cincinnati ........................125
Crummey, Andrew, Maryland ....................80
Davis, Bruce, UCLA ................................125
Davis, Dowayne, Syracuse ......................147
Davis, Fred, USC ......................................67

w w w. p r o f o o t b a l l w e e k l y. c o m

Davis, Kellen, Michigan State ....................67


Dawson, Calvin, Louisiana-Monroe ..........22
DeCoud, Thomas, California....................147
Demps, Quintin, UTEP ............................148
DeVan, Kyle, Oregon State........................80
Dingle, Johnny, West Virginia ..................100
Dixon, Dennis, Oregon ................................9
Dixon, Marcus, Hampton ........................100
Dizer, DeMichael, Grambling State..........148
Dizon, Jordon, Colorado ..........................126
Doggett, Derrick, Oregon State ..............148
Donovan, Tyler, Wisconsin ........................10
Dorsey, Glenn, LSU ................................100
Dotson, Lionel, Arizona............................101
Doucet, Early, LSU ....................................47
Douglas, Harry, Louisville ..........................47
Dragosavich, Mike, North Dakota State ..170
Dunbar, Franklin, Middle Tennessee..........81
Dunbar, Jolonn, Boston College ..............126
Dunlap, John, North Carolina State ..........47
Dunlap, King, Auburn ................................81
Dykes, Keilen, West Virginia ....................102
Edwards, Clyde, Grambling State..............48
Ellis, Chris, Virginia Tech..........................102
Ellis, Sedrick, USC ..................................102
Ervin, Allen, Lambuth ................................22
Faaeteete, David, Oregon........................103
Fagg, DeCody, Florida State ....................48
Feliciano, Carlos, Maryland ....................103
Felton, Jerome, Furman ............................22
Felton, Robert, Arkansas ..........................81
Fields, Joe, Syracuse ..............................148
Fine, Derek, Kansas ..................................68
Finley, Jermichael, Texas ..........................68
Finley, Joe Jon, Oklahoma ........................68
Flacco, Joe, Delaware................................10
Fladell, Mike, Rutgers ................................82
Flowers, Brandon, Virginia Tech ..............149
Fluellen, Andre, Florida State ..................103
Flynn, Matt, LSU........................................10
Fontenot, Wilrey, Arizona ........................149
Forsett, Justin, California ..........................22
Fort, Matt, Tulane ....................................23
Foster, Eric, Rutgers ................................104
Franklin, William, Missouri ........................48
Gaines, Jerrid, Miami (Ohio)....................149
Garcon, Pierre, Mount Union ....................48
Gardner, Isaiah, Maryland ......................150
Garner, Nate, Arkansas ............................82
Gatewood, Curtis, Vanderbilt ..................127
Geathers, Jeremy, UNLV..........................104
Gholston, Vernon, Ohio State ..................104
Giacomini, Breno, Louisville ......................82
Gibson, Mike, California ............................82
Gilberry, Wallace, Alabama......................105
Godfrey, Charles, Iowa ............................150
Goff, Jonathan, Vanderbilt........................127
Gooden, Tavares, Miami (Fla.) ................127

Grant, Larry, Ohio State ..........................128


Grant, Michael, Arkansas ........................150
Greco, John, Toledo ..................................82
Green-Ellis, BenJarvus, Mississippi ..........23
Grice-Mullen, Ryan, Hawaii ......................49
Griffin, Marcus, Texas ..............................151
Groves, Quentin, Auburn ........................128
Guion, Letroy, Florida State ....................105
Gunheim, Greyson, Washington..............106
Guyton, Gary, Georgia Tech ....................128
Hale, David, Weber State ..........................83
Hall, Alex, St. Augustines (N.C.)..............106
Hall, D.J., Alabama ....................................49
Hall, Vince, Virginia Tech..........................129
Hardie, Rudolph, Howard ........................106
Hardy, James, Indiana ..............................49
Harper, Justin, Virginia Tech ......................50
Harrington, Chris, Texas A&M..................106
Harrison, Marcus, Arkansas ....................107
Hart, Mike, Michigan..................................23
Hartley, Garrett, Oklahoma ......................170
Harvey, Derrick, Florida ..........................107
Hauschka, Steven, North Carolina St. ....170
Hawkins, Lavelle, California ......................50
Hayden, Nick, Wisconsin ........................108
Hayes, Geno, Florida State......................129
Haynos, Joey, Maryland ............................68
Hefney, Jonathan, Tennessee..................151
Henderson, Erin, Maryland......................129
Henne, Chad, Michigan ............................11
Henry, Marcus, Kansas..............................50
Hester, Jacob, LSU....................................24
Highsmith, Ali, LSU..................................130
Hightower, Tim, Richmond ........................24
Hill, Nick, Southern Illinois ........................11
Hilliard, Lex, Montana ................................25
Hillis, Peyton, Arkansas ............................25
Hills, Tony, Texas........................................83
Hines, Mario, Robert Morris ......................51
Hocker, Bruce, Duquesne..........................51
Hoke, Anthony, Cincinnati........................130
Holmes, Louis, Arizona............................108
Horton, Chris, UCLA................................151
Howard, Marcus, Georgia........................131
Hubbard, Paul, Wisconsin..........................51
Humpal, Mike, Iowa ................................131
Hyman, Josh, Virginia Tech........................51
Ikegwuonu, Jack, Wisconsin....................152
Irizarry, Louis, Youngstown State ..............69
Iwebema, Kenny, Iowa ............................108
Jackson, Chevis, LSU..............................152
Jackson, DeSean, California......................52
Jackson, Dexter, Appalachian State ..........52
Jackson, Lawrence, USC ........................109
Jackson, Malik, Louisville ........................131
Jackson, Rob, Kansas State....................109
James, Robert, Arizona State..................132
Jenkins, Darnell, Miami (Fla.) ....................53

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Jenkins, Mike, South Florida....................152
Johnson, Chris, East Carolina ..................25
Johnson, Curtis, Clark-Atlanta ................132
Johnson, Jaymar, Jackson State ..............53
Johnson, Josh, San Diego ........................12
Johnson, Rodrick, Oklahoma State ........132
Johnson, Steve, Kentucky..........................53
Johnson, Tyrell, Arkansas State ..............153
Johnston, Brian, Gardner-Webb ..............109
Joiner, Tony, Florida ................................153
Jones, Felix, Arkansas ..............................26
Jones, Jason, Eastern Michigan..............109
Jones, Jeremy, UTEP ..............................133
Jordan, Robert, California..........................54
Justice, Steve, Wake Forest ......................83
Kapanui, Kolo, West Texas A&M................69
Keglar, Stanford, Purdue..........................133
Kehl, Bryan, BYU ....................................133
Keith, Brandon, Northern Iowa ..................84
Keller, Dustin, Purdue ................................69
Keller, Sam, Nebraska ..............................12
Kelly, Malcolm, Oklahoma..........................54
Keyes, Dennis, UCLA ..............................154
King, Justin, Penn State ..........................154
Kinlaw, Rodney, Penn State ......................26
Kraus, Adam, Michigan..............................84
Lafaele, Michael, Hawaii ..........................110
Langford, Kendall, Hampton ....................110
Larsen, Spencer, Arizona ........................134
Lattimore, Keon, Maryland ........................27
Lawrence, Matt, Massachusetts ................27
Laws, Trevor, Notre Dame........................110
Lee, Patrick, Auburn ................................154
Lee, Xavier, Florida State ..........................13
Leggett, Lance, Miami (Fla.)......................55
Legursky, Doug, Marshall ..........................84
Leman, J, Illinois ......................................134
Lichtensteiger, Kory, Bowling Green..........84
Lindner, Matty, TCU ..................................85
Listorti, Brad, Massachusetts ....................70
Little, Rafael, Kentucky ..............................27
Lofton, Curtis, Oklahoma ........................134
Lokey, Derek, Texas ................................111
Long, Chris, Virginia ................................111
Long, Jake, Michigan ................................85
Longest, Shane, St. Xavier (Ill.) ..............170
Lowery, Dwight, San Jose State..............155
Lumbala, Rolly, Idaho ................................28
Lumpkin, Kregg, Georgia ..........................28
Lyles, Nate, Virginia ................................155
Lynch, Corey, Appalachian State ............155
Magro, Marc, West Virginia......................135
Manningham, Mario, Michigan ..................55
Manu, Charles, Nevada ............................86
Mapp, Durell, North Carolina ..................135
Mattison, Bryan, Iowa ..............................112
Mayo, Jerod, Tennessee ..........................136
McAnderson, Brandon, Kansas ................28
McBride, Shaheer, Delaware State............56
McClain, Jameel, Syracuse ....................136
McClinton, James, Kansas ......................112
McCray, Teraz, Miami (Fla.) ....................112
McDuffie, Chris, Clemson ..........................86
McFadden, Darren, Arkansas....................28

McGlynn, Mike, Pittsburgh ........................86


McKelvin, Leodis, Troy ............................156
McKinney, Justin, Kansas State ..............156
McRae, Kalvin, Ohio ..................................30
Medder, Carlton, Florida ............................87
Mehlhaff, Taylor, Wisconsin......................171
Mendenhall, Rashard, Illinois ....................30
Merling, Phillip, Clemson ........................113
Messam, Jerome, Graceland (Iowa)..........30
Meyer, Bret, Iowa State..............................13
Miller, Brandon, Georgia ..........................113
Millington, Akim, Illinois..............................87
Mitchell, Blake, South Carolina..................13
Mitchell, Kevin, Illinois..............................156
Moffitt, Ben, South Florida ......................137
Molden, Antwaun, Eastern Kentucky ......157
Monk, Marcus, Arkansas ..........................56
Moore, Dre, Maryland..............................113
Moore, Evan, Stanford ..............................56
Moore, Greg, Cincinnati ............................31
Moore, Kareem, Nicholls State................157
Moore, Kenneth, Wake Forest ..................57
Morelli, Anthony, Penn State......................13
Morgan, DaJuan, North Carolina State ..157
Morgan, Josh, Virginia Tech ......................57
Morris, Bernard, Marshall ..........................14
Morse, Derrick, Miami (Fla.) ......................87
Morton, Frank, Tulane ..............................114
Murphy, Shawn, Utah State ......................87
Murray, Maurice, New Mexico State ........114
Mustin, Darren, Alabama ........................137
Myles, Lamar, Louisville ..........................137
Nakamura, Haruki, Cincinnati ..................158
Nelson, Jordy, Kansas State......................57
Nicks, Carl, Nebraska ................................87
Norwell, Chris, Illinois ..............................114
Nwagbuo, Ogemdi, Michigan State ........114
OConnell, Kevin, San Diego State............14
Octavien, Steve, Nebraska ......................137
Okam, Frank, Texas ................................115
Oliver, Adamm, Georgia Tech..................115
Omon, Xavier, Northwest Missouri St. ......31
Ortiz, Chase, TCU....................................115
Osborn, Nick, San Diego State................115
Ostrander, T.C., Stanford ..........................15
Otah, Jeff, Pittsburgh ................................88
Owens, Jacob, Fairmont State (W.Va.)....116
Parker, D.J., Virginia Tech ........................158
Parmele, Jalen, Toledo ..............................31
Patrick, Allen, Oklahoma............................32
Patrick, Dominic, Arizona ........................158
Paysinger, Brian, Oregon ..........................58
Peterson, Mike, Northwest Missouri St. ....70
Phillips, Kenny, Miami (Fla.) ....................158
Pollak, Mike, Arizona State........................88
Polumbus, Tyler, Colorado ........................89
Poppinga, Kelly, BYU ..............................138
Porter, Tracy, Indiana ..............................159
Powell, Carlton, Virginia Tech ..................116
Pressley, DeMario, North Carolina St. ....116
Purify, Maurice, Nebraska..........................58
Rachal, Chilo, USC....................................89
Radovich, Drew, USC ................................89

Rankin, Louis, Washington ........................32


Raymond, Paul, Brown ..............................59
Reyer, Tim, Kansas State ........................171
Reynaud, Darius, West Virginia ................59
Reynolds, Antonio, Tennessee ................116
Rice, Ray, Rutgers ....................................32
Richard, Jamey, Buffalo ............................90
Richardson, Barry, Clemson ......................90
Richardson, Marcus, Troy ........................138
Richardson, Matterral, Arkansas ............159
Rinehart, Chad, Northern Iowa..................90
Rivers, Jason, Hawaii ................................59
Rivers, Keith, USC ..................................138
Roach, David, TCU ..................................159
Robertson, Darrell, Georgia Tech ............117
Robinson, Kevin, Utah State......................59
Robinson, Nate, Akron ............................117
Robinson, Will, San Diego State................90
Rodd, Brandon, Arizona State ..................91
Rodgers-Cromartie, Dominique, Tenn St..160
Royal, Eddie, Virginia Tech ........................60
Rubin, Ahtyba, Iowa State ......................117
Rucker, Martin, Missouri ............................70
Ryan, Matt, Boston College ......................15
Sam, Lorne, UTEP ....................................60
Santi, Tom, Virginia ....................................71
Santos, Ricky, New Hampshire..................15
Satele, Hercules, Hawaii............................91
Savage, Dantrell, Oklahoma State ............33
Scandrick, Orlando, Boise State..............160
Schmitt, Owen, West Virginia ....................33
Schmitt, Tyler, San Diego State ..............171
Schuening, Roy, Oregon State ..................91
Schwartz, Geoff, Oregon ..........................91
Scott, Eric, Kentucky..................................92
Scott, Trevor, Buffalo ................................117
Sene, Stephen, Liberty ..............................92
Serna, Alexis, Oregon State ....................171
Sharpe, Glenn, Miami (Fla.) ....................161
Sherry, Matt, Villanova ..............................71
Shields, Arman, Richmond ........................60
Shirley, Jason, Fresno State ....................118
Silva, Jamie, Boston College ..................161
Simmons, Shane, Western Washington....139
Simpson, Chad, Morgan State ..................33
Simpson, Jerome, Coastal Carolina ..........61
Sims, Pat, Auburn ....................................118
Slaton, Steve, West Virgina........................34
Smith, Adrain, Bethel College (Tenn.)........34
Smith, Bryan, McNeese State..................119
Smith, Dorian, Oregon State ..................119
Smith, Henry, Texas A&M ........................119
Smith, Kevin, Central Florida ....................35
Smith, Marcus, New Mexico ......................61
Smith, Paul, Tulsa ......................................16
Smith, Reggie, Oklahoma........................161
Smith, Taj, Syracuse ..................................61
Sosa, Pedro, Rutgers ................................92
Spanos, Matt, USC ....................................92
Spieker, Adam, Missouri............................93
Steltz, Craig, LSU ....................................162
Stevens, Craig, California ..........................71
Stewart, Carl, Auburn ................................35
Stewart, Carnell, LSU ................................93
Stewart, Jonathan, Oregon........................35
Stone, Marcus, North Carolina State ........71

Strong, Darrell, Pittsburgh..........................72


Studebaker, Andy, Wheaton (Ill.) ............119
Stupar, Jonathan, Virginia..........................72
Sullivan, John, Notre Dame ......................93
Sumrall, Brandon, Southern Mississippi..162
Swan, Luke, Wisconsin..............................62
Sweed, Limas, Texas ................................62
Tafralis, Adam, San Jose State..................16
Talib, Aqib, Kansas ..................................162
Tamme, Jacob, Kentucky ..........................72
Taylor, Christian, UCLA............................139
Taylor, Hilee, North Carolina....................120
Temple, Tony, Missouri ..............................36
Terrell, Darnell, Missouri ..........................163
Thomas, Devin, Michigan State ................62
Thomas, Donald, Connecticut ..................93
Thomas, Jamario, North Texas ..................37
Thomas, Marcus, UTEP ............................37
Thomas, Terrell, USC ..............................163
Thompson, Jeremy, Wake Forest ............120
Thompson, Josh, Auburn ........................120
Torain, Ryan, Arizona State ......................37
Tribble, DeJuan, Boston College..............163
Tryon, Justin, Arizona State ....................164
Tuminello, Kevin, Georgia Tech..................93
Tunney, Eric, Central Michigan ..................94
Urrutia, Mario, Louisville ............................63
Velasco, Fernando, Georgia ......................94
Vobora, David, Idaho ..............................140
Walker, Marcus, Oklahoma......................164
Wallace, Cody, Texas A&M ........................94
Warrick, Nehemiah, Michigan State ........164
Washington, Bobby, Eastern Kentucky ......38
Washington, Chauncey, USC ....................38
Watkins, Nick, Clemson ..........................140
Watts, Marcus, Kansas State ..................165
West, Joe, UTEP ......................................63
Wheatley, Terrence, Colorado..................165
Wheeler, Philip, Georgia Tech..................140
Widemon, Alton, Baylor ..........................165
Wilhite, Jonathan, Auburn........................166
Williams, Bobbie, Bethune-Cookman ......166
Williams, Chris, Vanderbilt ........................94
Williams, Ed, Lane (Tenn.) ........................63
Williams, Jack, Kent State ......................166
Williams, Roger, Florida State ................166
Williams, Thomas, USC ..........................141
Williams, Trae, South Florida ..................167
Witherspoon, Brian, Stillman (Ala.)..........167
Wolfe, D.J., Oklahoma ............................167
Woodson, Andre, Kentucky ......................17
Woodyard, Wesley, Kentucky ..................141
Wright, Kyle, Miami (Fla.) ..........................17
Young, Albert, Iowa....................................38
Young, Eric, Tennessee..............................95
Zbikowski, Tom, Notre Dame ..................168
Zenon, Jonathan, LSU ............................168
Zuttah, Jeremy, Rutgers ............................95

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