2013 Draft Prospects

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Random 2013 NFL Draft thoughts

Running Backs
Montee Ball, Wisconsin, 5’09, 212lbs
Knile Davis, Arkansas, 6’0, 226lbs
Ray Graham, Pittsburgh, 5’09, 195lbs
Andre Ellington, Clemson, 5’10, 190lbs

Notes: Few big + fast RB’s in the class, smaller, speed types more prevalent.

Wide Receivers
Cobi Hamilton, Arkansas, 6’3, 209lbs
Terrance Williams, Baylor, 6’2, 190lbs

Notes: The Senior WR class is lacking in top talent and will not match the depth of last season. This could change with an injection of Junior talent.


Defensive Linemen
Star Lotulelei, Utah, 6’3, 325lbs
Kawann Short, Purdue, 6’3, 310lbs
Jesse Williams, Alabama, 6’3, 320lbs
Joe Vellano, Maryland, 6’2, 285lbs

Notes: It should be a good year for interior defensive linemen with the four i've mentioned plus others such as UNC’s Sylvester Williams and Jon Jenkins of Georgia.

Defensive Ends
Dion Jordan, Oregon, 6’6, 246lbs
Alex Okafor, Texas, 6’4, 260lbs
Margus Hunt, SMU, 6’7, 288lbs
John Simon, Ohio State, 6’2, 270lbs

Notes: Strong class of pass rushers, even without the top underclassmen. This class has the potential to be one of the best in recent years.

Linebackers
Manti Te'o, Notre Dame, 6'2, 255lbs
Shayne Skov, Stanford, 6'3, 244lbs
Kevin Reddick, UNC, 6'2, 240lbs
Michael Mauti, PSU, 6'2, 242lbs

Notes: Nico Johnson, Arthur Brown are some of the other senior linebacker prospects I could have included

I'll try and work my way through the Sr class over the next week or so and post some brief notes on a few of the prospects.

The WVU offense is clearly explosive but how many of the players outside of Geno Smith do people think are likely to be taken in the first two days of the upcoming drafts?

Tavon Austin (WR) is the only one that springs to mind, but i'm not that much of an expert on the depths of most college football teams outside of QB.

Steadman Bailey is almost on a par with Austin

Would people be interested in a Q&A with one of the "draft experts"? Just checking before I contact any.

Definitely, I'd have loads of questions

Definitely!

I would be interested, but probably wouldn't have much to ask until after the NFL season

Yeah that would be alright. I often struggle with finding questions for specific players - so its easier and more productive with journalists and experts etc

I'd have some specific questions just for Bjoern Werner, Dee Millner, Eric Reid and Tharold Simon that I can think of right now

According to Bucky Brooks: "Mike Glennon might be the best quarterback available in the 2013 NFL Draft." Not seen anything of him so can anyone comment on him?

It comes from Bucky Brooks so take it with a pinch of salt... thats my comment.

On a serious note, i'm not sure. I've heard of him but I've not watched much College Football this year aside from little highlights and I don't tend to pick on NC State... may have a look when I go highlight watching on Sunday morning!

Asked a few of the twitter guys what they thought about that statement.
Matthew Elder‏@Matthewcelder
@606v2AF Feel good about it. Glennon has gotten killed and I think a lot of it is unfair thus far.

@Matthewcelder Where abouts do you think he will be taken?

@606v2AF Round 3-5.

Eric Galko‏@OptimumScouting
@606v2AF Hard to believe right now. But if he, Barkley, Geno, Nassib, and Wilson are at Senior Bowl, he'll sure look like it

@OptimumScouting Does the game tape make him look like it though?

@606v2AF I need to watch more. 8 games is nice, but for a pocket passer only who struggles vs disciplined defenses, needs to show a lot

Just seen something saying Tyler Bray shouldn't declare for this years draft because he needs to work on his ability to avoid the pass rush, his maturity and his decision making when under pressure. What do people think?

Also when is the deadline for declaring for the draft?

I think the deadline is in the middle of January. Bray should definitely return, his stats actually look okay, but if anyone has watched him they will know he has made some clueless decisions. Also anyone with a huge tattoo of their own name on their back shouldn't be drafted

Cheers Niner, thought it was some time around then just couldn't remember. Not seen the guy so won't really comment on Bray, but would he be going higher in next years QB class?

'Insiders' are telling Tony Pauline that Marcus Lattimore will declare, really hope the guy get drafted hard to see where he goes though clearly most will be scared by the injury history but surely he's worth a 7th rounder, then wouldn't they be able to put him on PUP and rehab him?

I'd imagine Bray may struggle to go higher next year because his top receivers will most likely enter the draft this year. I also expect Logan Thomas to return, and then there's Teddy Bridgewater who may be better. I'd use a 7th on Lattimore easy

After running out of options, mathieu has declared

late round/undrafted free safety most likely, no way he can stick at corner

Team might take a chance as a STer/backup S

FSU DE Brandon Jenkins is apparently going to the NFL rather than asking the NCAA for a medical redshirt.

Missouri DT Sheldon Richardson is entering 2013 Draft.

good, I asked the question in your interview thread, but would love him for the 49ers

niner wrote:good, I asked the question in your interview thread, but would love him for the 49ers

I won't give anything away then about how we feels about the guy.

niner wrote:late round/undrafted free safety most likely, no way he can stick at corner

Draft followers were talking up Mathieu for years. I used to every time I read how he was the **** and was going in the top 5 etc, etc a whole year before he was even draft eligible. Seen it many times before.

Anyway I've finally watched enough games to start forming opinions about prospects I do and dont like so I'll try and post some stuff soon.

Also I just noticed that Wes Bunting has been replaced by Russ Lande, apparently Bunting has left football scouting completely. Been asking around but nobody knows (or they don't want to say) why so i'm assuming its something personal. Sad because he wrote a lot of good stuff IMO.

Apparently David Amerson will be declaring, last time we spoke about him people said he had dropped from being one of the top CB's before the season started, has that changed?

January 15th is the date by which underclassmen must declare for the 2013 NFL Draft.

I meant to do this weeks ago but as promised here are some initial thoughts on my top rated senior DL prospects

Alex Okafor, Texas, 6'5, 265lbs
One of the more complete Defensive Ends in the class in that he shows up rushing the passer and in run defense. Doesn't appear as quick or athletic as some of the other top rated pass rushers in recent drafts but he possesses good length which, combined with good hand use, allows him to control and beat blockers. Despite not being quick of the snap he does a good job rushing outside, staying balanced, low and winning the hands battle. Demonstartes good awareness at the LOS by disrupting passing lanes with his long arms. I observed him dropping into zone coverage but he did not look natural, he'll get looks as a 34 LB but based on what i've seen he better fits as a defensive end.

Dion Jordan, Oregon, 6'6, 245lbs
The "praying mantis" has to be one of the most intriguing pass rush prospects in the draft. How many 6'6, 245lbs defensive ends do you see covering a receiver lined up in the slot? I don't think he should be seen primarily as a coverage LB though as he looks at home rushing the passer. He's a better athlete than Okafor and gets off the snap better. He has a similar ability to turn the corner although he's a bit one dimensional and doesn't demonstrate a counter or inside move at this point. His skill set makes him a fit in pretty much any defense as a potential 3 down player.

Ezekiel Ansah, BYU, 6'5, 270lbs
Quite a lot of hype for Ansah in the scouting community and he's being compared to Jason Pierre-Paul. Not sure if he's quite got the same level of explosivness but he's strong and very athletic for a guy of 6'5, 270lbs. Lines up on the end but moves inside on 3rd downs. Very active with his hands to work himself free from blockers combined with a good motor. Like Okafor he shows up vs. the run as well so he's not just a one trick pony. He demonstartes good awareness, sniffing out screen plays quickly and uses his arms to disrupt passing lanes when he can't get to the QB.

Star Lotulelei, Utah, 6'3, 320lbs
Lotulelei is the premier DL prospect on most boards right now. He's incredibly quick off the snap and has a formidable size/speed combination. Teams will run plays away from him and he often draws a double team which makes it difficult for him to impact games like you might expect him to. In saying that I think he could be more active in the passing game, he's powerfull and athletic enough to make more of an impact than he does. Runs hot and cold at times but when he's on he dominates at the LOS.

Jesse Williams, Alabama, 6'3, 320lbs
Williams has proven himself to be a real force vs. the run this season for Alabama. There are a number of prospects in the draft who look to be primarily 2 down run stuffers and Williams could be the best of the bunch. He anchors well making him very difficult to move and gets off blocks to make tackles around the LOS. I think he flashes potential when it comes to generating push and rushing the passer, certainly moreso than some of the other big bodies in the draft.

Sheldon Richardson, Missouri, 6'3, 295lbs
Richardson is not a senior but it's been reported that he plans to enter the 2013 draft. While there are a number of DL prospects who could play a 2 down run stopping role, Richardson is someone who can rush the passer from the inside. He's very quick off the snap which allows him to instantly penetrate gaps and he displays good hand use to disengage from blockers. On his day he can be pretty disruptive inside and he has the motor and athleticism to chase things down outside as well. He's not as consistent against the run, can be controlled and too easily moved at times. Other concerns for me are he didn't have a great day rushing the passer against better competition (e.g. Alabama) and, from what been reported, there are some legitimate off the field issues.

Kawann Short, Purdue, 6'3, 315lbs
Short lines up predominantly at the zero or 1 tech spot in 3 and 4 man lines for Purdue whereas last season he was often on the end of a 30 front. It looks like he's added weight since last year in order to better fit the role of NT. despite getting bigger he still shows quickness of the snap and the same power and explosion although he doesn't seem to offer as much as a rusher, can still push the pocket with strength/power rush and does still flash an ability to shoot gaps. He can get held up if initial burst/power fails and struggles at times to defeat blocks.

I plan to post my first big board (top 32) by the end of the month.

I like Lotulelei - he's the one that will go right up the top of the board.

Kinda a shame I haven't had the time to catch much NCAA this year... I feel much less versed on all the players compared with last year!
Thanks for the little write up

crazy_dave23 wrote:Kinda a shame I haven't had the time to catch much NCAA this year... I feel much less versed on all the players compared with last year!
Thanks for the little write up

I'm the same haven't really had the time to keep up to date with it/watch games/game tape this season which is a shame. So as you say thanks for the write up twelve, look forward to your big board.

Brad Wing leaving LSU early, just need Rich Eisen shouting "Punters are people too!"

Does anyone know what the record is for number of people leaving one school early? That's now Tharold Simon, Eric Reid, Kevin Minter, Spencer Ware and Brad Wing leaving LSU with Sam Montgomery, Barkevious Mingo not yet decided.

crazy_dave23 wrote:Thanks for the little write up

Derbyblue wrote:So as you say thanks for the write up twelve, look forward to your big board.

Your both very welcome.

Scouting Linebackers

Manti Te'o, Notre Dame, 6'2, 255lbs
An aggressive down-hill linebacker who possesses good size at 6'2, 255lbs. He's an instinctive player which allows him to attack the LOS quickly against the run as well as diagnose plays and close quickly in zone coverage. His instincts make up for a lack of straight line speed which might be a concern for some NFL teams, depending on the scheme they run. I wouldn't say he's head and shoulders above the other top LB prospects but he's one of the more complete guys in the group.

Alec Ogletree, Georgia, 6'3, 234lbs
I'm not as high on Ogletree as most other draft followers, in fact, I think he might be my Zach Brown of this year. Sure he's got the size/athleticism combination which makes him look the part physically and will endear him to NFL scouts but there are areas of his game which are lacking IMO. He needs to do a better job vs. the run and he can be hesitant around the LOS. Watching video there were many times i've thought "ffs just make a move towards the LOS" but he's slow to react and just ends up getting blocked out of the play. Maybe it's partly scheme but I feel it's mostly fundamentals and lack of instincts.

Shayne Skov, Stanford, 6'3, 242lbs
Skov has been working his way back from the knee injury he suffered last year which lead to him missing most of the season. I'm not as high on him as I was at the start of the season, he's a player who can hold his own in the box as well as rush the passer but it looks like he's lost some speed. I think his role might be limited at the next level.

Kevin Minter, LSU, 6'1, 245lbs
I haven't really scrutinised the video yet as he only declared for the draft recently but from what I have seen I like Minter better than Alec Ogletree. He's more active around the LOS, he slips blocks and makes the tackle. His movement is good and he covers the ground quickly, I wonder if he'll be as effective in the NFL where the athletic gap will be closer.

Michael Mauti, PSU, 6'2, 235lbs
If he'd been able to stay healthy for the whole of his senior year then Mauti would probably have been one of my top rated linebacker prospects. He plays the game with a real tenacity and loves to lay a big hit on an offensive player. He's an old fashioned LB who moves through the trash, stacks and sheds blocks and makes tackles aound the LOS. Tough football player, impact on ST as well.

Arthur Brown, Kansas State, 6'1, 228lbs
Listed at 6'1, 228lbs Brown is an undersized linebacker and his size might hurt him in some teams' evaluations. He's an excellent athlete with good lateral movement who attacks the LOS and can slip off blockers as well as stack and shed. The run game is often where an undersized linebacker will struggle but Arthur Brown is far better in this department than Zach Brown from last year. He's athletic enough to not be a liablity in either man or zone coverage and Kansas State have used his range and speed to spy on QB ATHs.

Another great write up twelve, said it last year shall say it again you could do this for your job (not that I'm suggesting you quit whatever you do currently).

Manti Te'o really did not help his case in the BCS game lst night.

I didn't seem him make one big play in the game

Can people see why he dropped in my mock now!

adams_legend wrote:Manti Te'o really did not help his case in the BCS game lst night.

I didn't seem him make one big play in the game

He was pretty close to an interception off a tipped ball.
Not the best display of his skills but the whole ND team took a nap last night, it happens, teams and players have bad games sometimes. Te'o has plenty of good tape, his real problem is that he was being talked of as a top 5 pick. When was the last time a non rush LB went in the top 5?

Big decision by Taylor Lewan to stay at Michigan, would have been a top 10 pick, plus I think Jake Matthews is staying at A&M so he can have a season worth of tape at LT.

10 players leaving LSU early, previous record for one school was apparently 5.

Don't really get the decision by Lewan. Coming off a great performance against the best player in college footbal and with Matthews returning, he was a lock for top ten

Suppose it's nice some of them do actually seem to care about their education, as I can't think of another reason to stay in college when you're practically guaranteed to go top 10.

Another record setting year for number of players declaring early for the draft and we've still got until Tuesday.

Notes - Impact players @ RB, WR and TE
Eddie Lacy, Alabama, 5'10, 220lbs
Lacy announced he will enter the 2013 draft last night, I'll have to re-watch the Alabama games in order to take a closer look at him but I expect he'll be my top rated RB - possibly the only one with a 1st round grade. Outside of Trent Richardson I don't think I had a solid 1st round value on any RB last year, David Wilson was in my early top 32 but he dropped out. I expect it'll be a similar situation this year.

Mike Gillislee, Florida, 5'11, 210lbs
I'll admit that Gillislee wasn't really on my radar at the sart of the season but he's become one of my favourite running backs in the senior class. He's got the advantage of coming from a pro concepts power running scheme which makes him more "pro-ready" than some of the other RB prospects. Eddie Lacy has that advantage as well. Gillislee has some burst and acceleration when he hits a gap and takes it out into space, he shows good effort and is always looking to run N/S.

Keenan Allen, California, 6'3, 210lbs
Allen is the first of two junior wide receivers who I expect to have at the top of my WR rankings, Cordarrelle Patterson being the other. Allen is a polished route runner displaying excellent feet and body co-ordination, he shows little deceleration when making his cuts allowing him to gain separation from the DB. The co-ordination and smoothness in his routes is more impressive considering he possesses a 6'3, 210 frame. I don't know if he possesses the speed to threaten DBs deep at the next level but there is enough tape of him beating his man with quickness at the LOS and creating space that suggests he could function outside the numbers as a #1 receiver.

Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee, 6'3, 205lbs
Developing x-JUCO prospect who, IMO, looks like he could be an impact player in the NFL. He's not the finished product by a long way, in fact, I could see him being quite frustrating early on but he's got so much playmaking ability it's hard not to like him. He's got size similar to Allen at 6'3, 205lbs and like Allen he's quicker and more agile than his frame might suggest. Tennessee did a good job of getting the ball in his hands in open space, running some trick plays, reverses and allowing Patterson to utilise his impressive COD skills and athletic ability. You should get some production from PR and KR. I think he might end up being on Dez Bryant's level in terms of frustration though.

Tavon Austin, West Virginia, 5'09, 175lbs
When I highlighted a couple of senior WRs to watch at the start of the season Tavon Austin wasn't on the list, not because he wasn't an intriguing prospect but more because of possible limitations and where/how he might fit in a pro system. His limitations are obvious, firstly his size at 5'09, 175lbs and secondly the value of slot receivers in the NFL. He's going to polarize opinion when it comes to his value but I think if you use him in the right way (strictly screen game/slot/returner) he'll give you some production. NFL evaluators will take notice as they covet playmakers, Dexter McCluster (similar size) went at the top of round two so it's not impossible Austin could be a very early pick.

Travis Kelce, Cincinnati, 6'5, 260lbs
There are three TEs who seem to top most rankings. I'm going to focus on Senior Travis Kelce but I want to quickly mention Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert who is utilised out of the slot and split out wide along with being used as an in-line blocker so he shows some versatility. The other TE i'll mention is Stanfords Zach Ertz who, from limited viewing, I think is a better all round prospect compared to Coby Fleener from last year but not as athletic. I still need to do more work on the underclassmen. Like Eifert, Kelce is used in a variety of roles. He lines up as an in-line blocker and FB in the run game, working in a run based offense has alowed him to develop into an effective blocker at the LOS and in open space. He mostly works the short/intermediate field in the passing game, running crossing routes or short outs and taking advantage of mismatches. Coming from the Cincinnati offense it's difficult to judge how dynamic he can be in the passing game but the pre-draft AS games + NFL Combine might help shed some light in this area.

Speaking of All Star Games...

2013 All Star Games
Casino Del Sol All Star Game - 11th Jan.
- Took place last night, I didn't bother watching it but prospects pegged as late round/PFA types such as Jamarkus McFarland (Oklahoma), Justin Tuggle (Kansas State) and Onterio McCalebb (Auburn) would be worth evaluating.

Raycom College Football All Star Classic - 19th Jan.

NFLPA All Star Game - 19th Jan.

East/West Shrine Game - 19th Jan.

Senior Bowl - 26th Jan.

Texas vs. Nation - 2nd Feb.
- TvN game returns this year.

I'll try and preview some of the games, ideally the Senior Bowl and East/West Shrine Game.

twelve283 wrote:Notes - Impact players @ RB, WR and TE
Eddie Lacy, Alabama, 5'10, 220lbs
Lacy announced he will enter the 2013 draft last night, I'll have to re-watch the Alabama games in order to take a closer look at him but I expect he'll be my top rated RB - possibly the only one with a 1st round grade. Outside of Trent Richardson I don't think I had a solid 1st round value on any RB last year, David Wilson was in my early top 32 but he dropped out. I expect it'll be a similar situation this year.

Is Alabama the only college that can produce 1st round rated backs nowadays... I know a couple of others have sneaked in but not too many!

crazy_dave23 wrote:

twelve283 wrote:Notes - Impact players @ RB, WR and TE
Eddie Lacy, Alabama, 5'10, 220lbs
Lacy announced he will enter the 2013 draft last night, I'll have to re-watch the Alabama games in order to take a closer look at him but I expect he'll be my top rated RB - possibly the only one with a 1st round grade. Outside of Trent Richardson I don't think I had a solid 1st round value on any RB last year, David Wilson was in my early top 32 but he dropped out. I expect it'll be a similar situation this year.

Is Alabama the only college that can produce 1st round rated backs nowadays... I know a couple of others have sneaked in but not too many!

A big part of it is scheme. There are so few colleges running an offense similar to a pro system that there are often big role/responsibility differences between college and the NFL. It makes it difficult to put a high value on many of the RBs coming out of college.

Logan Thomas leaving it until 4pm ET to make his announcement on whether he'll be staying at Virginia Tech or leaving for the NFL.

Twelve- do you have Hunter or Patterson ranked higher? And Austin or Bailey ranked higher?

Prospects of note - NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and Raycom College Football All-Star Classic
Brad Sorensen, Southern Utah, 6'4, 235lbs
Small school QB was being talked up at the start of the season. Scouts will like his size at 6'4, 235lbs and the fact he can spin the ball. He works predominantly out of the shotgun in Southern Utah's spread offense so the transition to under center questions will be asked. He'll need to show he can work in a complex offensive system as all too often he makes one read and throws it away if it's not on. He has some accuracy issues as well. Physical tools are there.

Marquise Goodwin, Texas, 5'09, 180lbs
Pretty much anything Goodwin does on the field is down to speed rather than technique at this point. In games involving late round/PFA talent you want to find prospects with tools you can develop or utilise in a particular role and speed will draw the attention of scouts. Texas look to get him isolated with a DB outside where he can use his speed as well as on reverses and end-arounds where, if he gets a block, he's a home run threat. He also has the potential to contribute as a returner.

Ray Ray Armstrong, Faulkner, 6'4, 220lbs
Armstrong elected to return for his senior year at Miami but was dismissed from the program after being suspended for a third time. He then transferred to Faulkner University but was declared ineligible to play by the NAIA so he's spent the year out of football. It's Armstrong's size which is probably the most intriguing thing about him, a safety with his size could potentially be used in a number of ways. Provided he's kept himself in shape during his year off the All-Star games could be a chance for him to stand out and catch the eye of scouts.

Kenny Tate, Maryland, 6'3, 230lbs
Tate had a lot of hype prior to missing 2011 with injury - he was an all-ACC selection at safety his junior year but was moved to LB. He's played some OLB in a 34 system this year which makes it a difficult evaluation as he's not a LB IMO - especially not a 34OLB. I think he'd be better off back at safety and he could find a role in a big nickel defense as a S/LB hybrid.

Washaun Ealey, Jacksonville State, 5'11, 215lbs
Jacksonville State RB Washaun Ealey was Georgia's leading rusher as a Soph. before he transferred to JSU. Small School prospects who have had previous success in the SEC are almost always worth a look.

There are a couple of big body SEC defensive linemen in Florida's Omar Hunter and Alabama's Quinton Dial but there are a number of similar "space eater" prospects this year - Dial does have a frame which will interest 34 teams at 6'6, 304lbs he has ideal 34DE length. Jamarkus McFarland caught my eye when he started to get playing time at Oklahoma but he hasn't really developed. Miguel Maysonet earned some praise from Doug Marrone when the Stony Brook RB ran well against Syracuse. He's a tough runner who plays in a system with pro concepts in the run game (use of multiple TE sets and FBs). Production against FBS competition never hurts.

Shrine Game prospect notes to come...

Derbyblue wrote:Twelve- do you have Hunter or Patterson ranked higher? And Austin or Bailey ranked higher?

I think Cordarrelle Patterson could be a special player.

I'm still building a full picture of Bailey but I like what i've seen from him and Tavon Austin. Potentially I think Austin can have the bigger impact but he has limitations and you would have to design plays to get him in open space and allow him to create with the ball in his hands. He's also got added value as a returner and the senior bowl will be interesting to see if he can win outside. I've observed Bailey run pretty much the full route tree, out, slant, comeback, post and corner and get open consistently. He's not the biggest at 5'10, 190lbs but he can go deep and challenge for the ball in the air, tracks the ball well and has good hands. Interested to see what he runs in the 40 yard dash. I have Austin with the higher value but I think Bailey could have a role in the NFL.

Derbyblue wrote:Logan Thomas leaving it until 4pm ET to make his announcement on whether he'll be staying at Virginia Tech or leaving for the NFL.

And he's staying in college, just the 74 underclassmen leaving early.

Derbyblue wrote:

Derbyblue wrote:Logan Thomas leaving it until 4pm ET to make his announcement on whether he'll be staying at Virginia Tech or leaving for the NFL.

And he's staying in college, just the 74 underclassmen leaving early.

South Carolina WR Ace Sanders announced on Twitter that he will enter the 2013 NFL Draft - that makes 75 underclassman to declare for the 2013 Draft.

Prospects of note - East/West Shrine Game
Ray Graham, Pittsburgh, 5'10, 190lbs
Prior to the season I wrote about the potential for Graham to have a good senior year provided he returned healthy from his ACL injury. He's been working his way back all year (played with a knee brace) and has flashed his old burst and elusiveness between the tackles at times. At his best he makes some pretty devastating cuts which he combines with burst and vision. He's also a useful receiver out of the backfield and can create yards after the catch. I think he's being undervalued, size is a limitation, but he comes from a pro system, can catch, bounce runs outside as well as be effective between the tackles.

Zac Stacy, Vanderbilt, 5'09, 210lbs
Stacy is another back who I feel is being undervalued, he's a one cut and go type of RB who fights for every yard. His compact build, power and balance allow him to hit a hole and either burst into space or pick up tough yards after contact. Has experience in pass protection and as a receiver out of the backfield.

Zeke Motta, Notre Dame, 6'2, 215lbs
Motta's name was frequently being mentioned as a "sleeper" early in the season but his performance in the BCS Championship against Alabama seems to have done him some damage. I would just point out that the whole ND defense played poorly in that game. He's got ideal size and hits hard but needs to work on his angles and being a consistent tackler. Might be limited to a cover2/3 scheme in the NFL unless he can show man coverage skills.

Lerentee McCray, Florida, 6'2, 248lbs
McCray was listed on the original Shrine Game roster but when the measurables were released I couldn't find his name. I'm assuming he's not there - might have got a Senior Bowl invite. He was used as an edge rusher this season but has previously played LB. He flashes speed and flexibility as a rusher as well as good hand use to work himself free. He can win with power as well with a nice initial punch to stun the OT. I like that he shows the hustle to chase things down.

Nevada safety Duke Williams has decent size at 6'1, 200lbs and is another hard hitter at the position. His use in both man and zone coverage while at Nevada gives him added value. The downside of his game is he's an inconsistent tackler who is too often over aggressive. His hands are kind of iffy as well. The image of Brandon Meriweather just entered my head - yuk. Small School prospects Terron Armstead an OT from Arkansas Pine Bluff and LB Keith Pough from Howard were being talked up prior to the start of the week - unfortunately I haven't seen either of them play. Three underrated prospects are DL Joe Vellano (Maryland) and linebackers Sio Moore (UConn) and Gerald Hodges (PSU). I wrote about Vellano prior to the season, he doesn't have ideal size but he has a relentless motor. Played on the end of a 3 man line this year but also has experience at DT in 4 man fronts. Southeast Louisiana QB Nathan Stanley has size at 6'4, 210lbs and a live arm. UCLA TE Joseph Fauria has the potential to be a nice RZ target at 6'7, 255lbs. James Ferentz is undersized at 6'1, 290lbs but the Iowa OL is sound technique-wise and the coach's son is a savvy player. USC DE Wes Horton has solid measurables at 6'5, 260lbs with 34.5 inch arms.

twelve283 wrote:Lerentee McCray, Florida, 6'2, 248lbs
McCray was listed on the original Shrine Game roster but when the measurables were released I couldn't find his name. I'm assuming he's not there - might have got a Senior Bowl invite. He was used as an edge rusher this season but has previously played LB. He flashes speed and flexibility as a rusher as well as good hand use to work himself free. He can win with power as well with a nice initial punch to stun the OT. I like that he shows the hustle to chase things down.

Found this:According to his agent, Florida grad Jonathan Perzley of SportStars Inc. in New York, McCray simply needs more rest before hitting the draft grind as hard as he hit eventual Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel on a game-changing sack in Florida’s 20-18 win at Texas A&M.

“He’s banged up from the season and he just needs to heal himself,” Perzley said. “He’s just not 100 percent, although he will be by the time the combine rolls around. But in terms of an all-star game, he really needed to get himself on track health-wise.”

What do you make of Te'o turning down the Senior Bowl invite?

Shrine Game notes: Weigh-In - prospects of note.
WR Rodney Smith, FSU, 6'4, 220lbs, 10 1/8 hands, 34 3/8 arms
DE Devin Taylor, South Carolina, 6'7, 275lbs, 35 3/4 arms
DE Wes Horton, USC, 6'4, 260lbs, 34 1/5 arms
OL Dann O'Neill, Western Michigan, 6'7, 317lbs, 35 7/8 arms

Derbyblue wrote:“He’s banged up from the season and he just needs to heal himself,” Perzley said. “He’s just not 100 percent, although he will be by the time the combine rolls around. But in terms of an all-star game, he really needed to get himself on track health-wise.”

Ah, nice find. I couldn't find anything about a Senior Bowl invitation either so was wandering what happened to him.

What do you make of Te'o turning down the Senior Bowl invite?

He probably has other stuff to worry about now.

Daniel Jeremiah, a former scout for the Ravens, Browns and Eagles has written about the Te'o situation here: http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/0ap1000000127631/article/manti-teo-girlfriend-hoax-will-factor-into-nfl-draft-evaluation

Jeremiah has also included some Shrine game notes:

Terron Armstead, OL, Arkansas-Pine Bluff: Small-school players have the potential to benefit the most in an all-star setting. After watching these players dominate weaker competition, scouts are anxious to see them perform against top-tier, Division I talent. Armstead looks like he belongs. He is a powerful run blocker and has the base to anchor down against the bull rush in pass protection. He is probably better suited to play guard at the next level, but he also has a chance at right tackle.

Wes Horton, DE, USC: Horton wasn't a dominating player on tape, but he's having an outstanding week of East-West practices. He is very long and athletic. He's slithery in pass-rush drills and shows the ability to wrap around blocks in the run game. Horton needs to get stronger, but there is a lot to work with in this prospect.

Tuesday and Wednesday East and West practice reports from Dane Brugler of CBS/NFL Draft Scout:
East:http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/21558425/2013-nfl-draft-shrine-game-----tuesday-east-practice-report
West:http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/21558797/shrine-game-tuesday-west-practice-report

East:http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/rob-rang/21563602/shrine-game-east-practice-report-wednesday
West:http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/blog/rob-rang/21564049/2013-shrine-game-west-practice-report----wednesday

Richmond SAF Cooper Taylor is showing up in notes quite frequently:

Richmond safety Cooper Taylor continued to stand out on Tuesday with his aggressive style of play. The coaching staff routinely praised the former Spider for his decisiveness and burst, arriving to the play quickly and ready to blow up the ballcarrier. Somewhat expected with such a tall safety, he plays too upright at times and this will show during full contact drills, but Taylor has looked like one of the most physical players here.

As has Pitt RB Ray Graham:

It was expected Pittsburgh running back Ray Graham would be one of the fastest on the field as the East squad only had partial pads on Monday. But even with full pads on Tuesday, he still looked like the quickest athlete during the morning practice. Graham also looked good as a return man on special teams, something he hasn't done since his sophomore season with the Panthers.

Bo Marchionte of college2pro.com has posted some Shrine game practice notes for Day 1 and 2:
Day 1:[url=http://college2pro.com/showSingleArticle.php?id=121&page=browseArticles&category=All Star Games]http://college2pro.com/showSingleArticle.php?id=121&page=browseArticles&category=All Star Games[/url]
Day 2:[url=http://college2pro.com/showSingleArticle.php?id=125&page=browseArticles&category=All Star Games]http://college2pro.com/showSingleArticle.php?id=125&page=browseArticles&category=All Star Games[/url]

college2pro.com has a useful All Star Game calendar plus the Weigh-In sheets for most of the games.

Shawn Zobel of DraftHQ Shrine game practice notes:
Day 1:http://draftheadquarters.com/Shrine-Game-Day-One-Report.htm
Day 2:http://draftheadquarters.com/Shrine-Game-Day-Two-Report.htm
Stock watch:http://draftheadquarters.com/Shrine-Game-Stock-Watch.htm

Draft Countdown podcast Scott Wright and Shane Hallam break down the Shrine Game with guests Joe Everett, Eric Galko and Paul Guillemette:http://www.blogtalkradio.com/draftcountdown/2013/01/16/draft-countdownI haven't had a chance to listen to it yet though.

Just found this http://collegefootball.scout.com/2/1256031.html by Pete Fiutak. I think it has some interesting projections.
Giovani Bernard and Eddie Lacy both get 2nd round projections and believes Lacy should be the first back off the board.

Knile Davis, RB, Arkansas
Projected: Third to fourth round
Good or Bad Move? This could be one of the draft's tougher calls. With 6-foot, 225-pound size and blazing speed, he has all the tools to be a phenomenal next-level back, but he still has to prove he can produce again like he did before an ankle injury that sidelined him for a year. Underwhelming last season, his tape won't match his workouts. It would've been interesting to see what he could've done under Bret Bielema, but he should be a productive pro.

Don't sleep on this guy.

Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee
Projected: Third round
Good or Bad Move? There's a great chance he could be a top 50 pick, but all of a sudden this has turned into a very, very deep class of receivers and he could slide down a bit. At 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds, he has the size to go along with breakaway speed and play-making ability. There might be a few health concerns -- he'll need to prove his knee is 100 percent sound -- but he'll be in the mix of top receivers off the board with a big set of workouts.

Interesting projection considering most value him higher - i'm closer to 3rd round that 1st round.

Barkevious Mingo, LB/DE, LSU
Projected: First round
Good or Bad Move? While he didn't quite get all the hype and spotlight of some of the other LSU defensive stars, that will quickly change on draft day. At 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, he has prototype size and the athleticism to become a disruptive pass-rushing force as a 3-4 outside linebacker or a 4-3 end. However, he's coming off a mediocre season with just 4.5 sacks and 38 tackles -- it won't matter. He could go in the top 15.

I think I must be missing something when it comes to Mingo.

Alex Ogletree, LB, Georgia
Projected: Late second round
Good or Bad Move? Reports are a bit mixed. He can play inside or out with the size and range to do just about anything for a linebacking corps, but he'll likely end up inside in a 3-4 at the next level -- but he's probably not going to see any time in the middle. While he was overshadowed a bit by Jarvis Jones, he's enough of a playmaker to be high on several draft boards. Some creative defensive coordinator will love him.

I'd put a higher value on him than late 2nd round but i'm not his biggest fan.

Menelik Watson, OT Florida State
Projected: Third round
Good or Bad Move? There's a chance he could move up into the second round or even the late first with a big workout. The draft is deep with offensive tackles, and while the 6-5, 320-pounder might be destined to work on the right side, he has the talent and the tools to become a longtime starter.

Most will know of Tom Wort but Watson is another British born prospect. Here's his story: http://espn.go.com/colleges/fsu/football/story/_/id/8399858/menelik-watson-endured-strange-journey-florida-state-seminoles

I loved watching Watson against Northern Illinois, fair enough it wasn't elite competition but he just looked so fast and athletic. I heard of him two seasons ago and had never really looked out for him until that game

niner wrote:I loved watching Watson against Northern Illinois, fair enough it wasn't elite competition but he just looked so fast and athletic. I heard of him two seasons ago and had never really looked out for him until that game

I like what i've seen from Watson as well, not as raw as I expected.

East West Shrine Game

Comments on the first half:
I only caught the first half so I didn't see all the quarerbacks. I did get a chance to see Klein, Cameron, Scott and Doege and I wouldn't use a draft pick on any of them TBH. Matt Scott had a 57 yard touchdown pass to Chad Bumphis in the 2nd quarter but DB Braden Smith broke on the route and should have picked it off but he mistimed his jump. Scott also had some trouble getting the plays off in time and had to use a couple of time outs to avoid delay of game.

None of the running backs really stood out either but TBF they were rotating a lot. Both Ray Graham and Christine Michael fumbled. Graham did show his ability to pick up YAC on a 3rd down reception. Michael runs hard and showed vision on a cut back but I didn't see anything to get excited about. Kerwynn Williams, a smaller back at 5'8, 185lbs, had a nice run where he got to the perimeter and a kick return for 37 yards.

Terron Armstead looked like one of the better OL on display but he did have trouble with the speed of Wes Horton on one play.

Chad Bumphis had the 57 yard TD where he showed good concentration to bring in the pass after Smith broke on the route. He also had a reception on a comeback route where he was able to spin away from the DB and pick up a couple extra yards. Corey Fuller had a nice recpetion on the sideline, Aaron Heter then missed the tackle to allow extra YAC.

Joe Vellano flashed early on when he got into the backfield, forcing Doege to make a poor throw which almost ended up in an interception. Devin Taylor also flashed at times and had two forced fumbles. He did fail to contain on one run but he showed some hustle to chase the play down and make a tackle downfield. His length will appeal to scouts.

LB Sio Moore showed off his speed to get to the sideline and make a TFL after David Bass did a good job off getting off a block to force the RB wide. AJ klein had a TFL late in the half and had contain form the side as DeVonte Holloman made a TFL early in the first quarter. Gerald Hodges chose not to participate in the game.

CB Kayvon Webster had good coverage on a double move as well as on a slant route. Nigel Malone jumped a route to intercept a pass which should never have been thrown. Cameron's throw was late and the ball placement was poor.

Senior Bowl Weigh-In results of note:

All six QBs measured in at 6'2 or above, Mike Glennon had the best size at 6'6, 220lbs.
RB Robbie Rouse was measured at 5'6, 185lbs - he looked smaller than listed when I watched him at Fresno State so this didn't surprise me.
WR Markus Wheaton out of Oregon State was also much smaller than listed at 5'11, 183lbs - game very much built on speed.
Ol Eric Fisher - 6'7, 305lbs and 34 inch arms.
OL Lane Johnson - 6'6, 302lbs and 35 inch arms.
OL DJ Fluker - 6'5, 355lbs and 36 3/8 inch arms
OL Kyle Long - nice 6'6, 304lbs frame but shorter 32 inch arms.
OL Justin Pugh - much smaller frame at 6'4, 301lbs with short 31 inch arms, similar situation with Kent State's Brian Winters.
DL Malliciah Goodman - 6'4, 272lbs with very long 35 7/8 inch arms.
DL Margus Hunt - 6'8, 277lbs frame, impressive.
DL Jon Jenkins is big at 6'4, 359lbs.
LB John Simon has dropped some weight to play LB - now at 256lbs

Here is the full weigh-in sheet from Draft Countdown: http://www.draftcountdown.com/features/SeniorBowl/reports/Weigh-In.php

I'm interested to see how things shake out at the safety position this week as I don't have a clear top senior prospect at the position.
Kenny Vaccaro, Texas, 6'1, 218lbs
The Texas safety has chosen not to participate in the senior bowl. He's seen as one of the top safety prospects due to his rare combination of size and athleticism which allows him to be the kind of versatile DB that NFL teams are looking for. Offenses will look to exploit favourable matchups so a safety who can hold up in coverage with slot receivers and tight ends as well as Vaccaro is valuable. Vaccaro has regularly lined up in man coverage against both slot receivers and tight ends for the Longhorns and has been effective in this role. On the flip side he's way too aggressive at times which takes him out of the play and he will miss tackles as a rule. His value is lowered in my eyes because of this but its difficult to ignore his athletic ability and physicality.

TJ McDonald, USC, 6'2, 210lbs
I see McDonald as a pure in the box safety. He's very active around the LOS and more accomplished against the run than some of the other safety prospects in the class. He's not afraid of contact and will play the run aggressively, crashing downhill and filling gaps at the LOS. He has the length to stay off blocks and is a solid wrap up tackler. He does get over aggressive at times which negates some of the good things he does and leads him to take poor angles and miss tackles, as well as commit personal foul penalties. Primarily used in zone coverage where he reads the QB fairly well but he looks quite tight and doesn't have great quickness or COD. Used as a zone blitzer. Will bite on misdirection. I wouldn't want him as a cover 1 safety or in a system where he would be asked to cover man 2 man but as someone who can fill in the run game, tackle at the LOS and hit receivers over the middle I think he's a pretty safe bet. I'd question how much value a player like this has in the modern NFL though.

Bacarri Rambo, Georgia, 6'1, 215lbs
Rambo might be hurt by character concerns and multiple suspensions while at Georgia but, for the most part, I like his play on the field. His size and athleticism means he's comfortable in both man and zone coverage. I could see him being a good off man or deep zone player in the NFL as he looks most effective when he can read the QB and drive on the route to either get hands on the pass or hit the receiver and force an incompletion. The other thing I like about him is he plays for turnovers, he'll look to rip the football out, cause fumbles and lay a big hit. I would like to see him play the run more aggressively and he's not a consistent wrap up tackler. He's not overly physical down at the LOS, especially when he has to work off blocks and find the RB but he's not alergic to contact.

DJ Swearinger, South Carolina, 6'0, 210lbs
Another big hitting and physical player who also has a nice mix of coverage ability. He doesn't have ideal size but has shown he can line up against receivers in the slot, as well as playing corner in spot duty, while at South Carolina and has also been used as a deep safety in cover 2 looks. He's not afraid to play in the box either and and flows downhill quickly to make tackles around the LOS. He will throw his body about and play a little out of control at times which leads to penalties and missed tackles, particularly when he goes low rather than wrapping up properly. Swearinger pulled out of the Senior Bowl after he suffered an injury while training for the Combine.