2012 Draft Prospects

by twelve283 Mon 09 May 2011, 15:45

First topic message reminder :

List of underclassmen who have declared for the 2012 NFL Draft:

QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
QB Brock Osweiler, AZ State
QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor
QB Darron Thomas, Oregon
RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
RB Lamar Miller, Miami
RB LaMichael James, Oregon
RB Robert Turbin, Utah State
RB Ronnie Hillman, SD State
RB Bernard Pierce, Temple
RB David Wilson, VT
RB Mike Ball, Nevada
RB Chris Polk, Washington
RB Darrell Scott, USF
RB Edwin Baker, Michigan State
RB Alvester Alexander, Wyoming
RB Jewel Hampton, Southern Illinois
WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
WR Tommy Streeter, Miami *
WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
WR Chris Givens, Wake Forrest
WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
WR Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers
WR Rueben Randle, LSU
WR Eric Page, Toledo
WR Damaris Johnson, Tulsa
TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson
TE Orson Charles, Georgia
OL Matt Kalil, USC
OL David DeCastro, Stanford
OL Brandon Washington, Miami
OL Riley Reiff, Iowa
OL Peter Konz, Wisconsin
OL Jonathan Martin, Stanford
OL Bobby Massie, Ole Miss
DT Marcus Forston, Miami *
DT Dontari Poe, Memphis
DT Jarel Worthy, Michigan State
DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State
DT Michael Brockers, LSU
DE Nick Perry, USC *
DE Oliver Vernon, Miami
DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse
DE Donte Page-Moss, UNC
DE Ronnell Lewis, Oklahoma
DE Max Holloway, Boston College
DE Jonathan Massaquoi, Troy
LB Donta Hightower, Alabama
LB Vontaze Burfict, AZ State
LB Luke Kuelchy, Boston College
LB Terrell Manning, North Carolina State
CB Morris Claiborne, LSU
CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama
CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech
CB Cliff Harris, Oregon *
CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
CB Josh Robinson, UCF

Very early look at the 2012 draft prospects plus some youtube videos to wet your appetite.

Senior quarterbacks to keep an eye on include:

Nick Foles, Arizona, 6’5, 245lbs
Ryan Lindley, San Diego State, 6’4, 218lbs
Kirk Cousins, Michigan State, 6’3, 205lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3rsj3fjoOQ
Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M, 6’4, 220lbs
Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State, 6’6, 235lbs
John Brantley, Florida, 6’3, 220lbs

Top underclassmen:

Andrew Luck, Stanford, 6’4, 235lbs
Landry Jones, Oklahoma, 6’4, 220lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8FpwaR-GUo
Matt Barkley, USC, 6’2, 220lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAdo1OyqiPc

If the top underclassmen all declare (chances are they wont) then the quarterback class looks pretty well stocked but even without them there is some depth to the class.

Michael Floyd, Notre Dame, 6’3, 228lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyfcBD_fZjU
Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M, 6’3, 215lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXJ4FcW8Nug
Juron Criner, Arizona, 6’4, 210lbs
Greg Childs, Arkansas, 6’3, 217lbs

Top underclassmen:

Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina, 6’4, 232lbs
Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State, 6’1, 208lbs
Mohamed Sanu, Rutgers, 6’2, 218lbs

Much deeper class in 2012 than this year as beyond AJ Green and Julio Jones there weren’t many big guys who could run. Next year’s class however has a number of such types as well as others I haven’t mentioned.

Big year for offensive tackles?

Mike Adams, Ohio State, 6’8, 305lbs
Al Netter, Northwestern, 6’6, 310lbs
Nate Potter, Boise State, 6’6, 295lbs
Matt Reynolds, Bringham Young, 6’6, 322lbs
Andrew Datko, FSU, 6’6, 305lbs

Top underclassmen:

Matt Kalil, USC, 6’6, 295lbs
Jonathan Martin, Stanford, 6’6, 305lbs
Riley Reiff, Iowa, 6’6, 300lbs

There should be some good options for teams looking to improve their protection at the OT position even without the top underclassmen. There will probably be better depth in 2012 than there was this year as well.

LB has the potential to be the class of the draft, provided some of the top underclassmen declare:

Courtney Upshaw, Alabama, 6’2, 260lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6DGTN-_qxU
Chris Galippo, Southern California, 6’2, 250lbs
Brandon Lindsey, Pittsburgh, 6’2, 250lbs
Tank Carder, TCU, 6'3, 237lbs

Top underclassmen:

Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State, 6’3, 245lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxQEkLHo0F4
Donta Hightower, Alabama, 6’4, 258lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyeXZTTcz8E
Shayne Skov, Stanford, 6’3, 243lbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieo_ansbJmA
Manti Te’o, Notre Dame, 6’2, 245lbs
Luke Kuechly, BC, 6’2, 235lbs

I have included these prospects in particular because they are versatile and are moved around the defense regularly, particularly Upshaw, Hightower and Lindsey who are used at ILB, OLB and DE.

by crazy_dave23 Tue 17 Jan 2012, 20:18

niner wrote:the draft is always on a thursday night, p[lus i have fridays off uni so im sorted

by always you mean it has been twice :p

Derbyblue wrote:
Barrett Trotter is leaving Auburn a year early, not actually seen anything of Cam Newtons replacement but his stats and being benched during the 7th game don't fill me with confidence for his future.

I don't believe he is leaving for the Draft. He lost his job to Clint Mosley, has already graduated and intends to pursue a masters elsewhere.
http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2012/1/17/2713355/barrett-trotter-leaving-auburn-football-senior

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 20:33

ive only been into the draft for 3 years and recorded it in 2009 so thats probably right lol

by twelve283 Tue 17 Jan 2012, 20:51

2012 EW Shrine Game Rosters: http://www.shrinegame.com/en/Teams/2012Roster.aspx

Jan 21st at 4PM ET.

Draft Insider Shrine Game notes Day 1: http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=5977

Draft Insider Shrine Game East practice reports: http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=5986

I'll try and create a big board of some sort but I want to do some work on the underclassmen first. Got a few days off so i'll get something up soon.

by Thomond Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:06

Someones draft staus dropped significantly. Could be a very nice steal later on. Bucs let's go get him in round 2.

Dre Kirkpatrick - DB - Player The Manatee County Sheriff's Office lists "Dandre Kirkpatrick" in its arrest logs as having been charged with possession of under 20 grams of marijuana on Tuesday, January 17.
Kirkpatrick, who appears clearly to be Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick, is listed at 6-foot-2, 180 and as having been born on the same date (October 26, 1989) as the top-20 draft prospect. The log says Kirkpatrick was bonded out of jail for $120. Kirkpatrick's apparent arrest just over a month before the Combine could remove him from several teams' draft boards. Kirkpatrick did not have any known off-field issues during his three years at Alabama. Source: Manatee County Sheriff's Office Jan 17 - 3:31 PM

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:42

he will not make it anywhere near the 2nd round

by Thomond Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:43

Niner, he will if this is proven. You would be surprised how guys with problems drop a fair bit. No doubting his talent alright.

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:46

I stll think kirkpatrick will be a top 20 pick, how many players have a dui that have been drafted recently. If he does make it to the 2nd, one team will be so happy.

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:48

Here is my view on Justin Blackmon, feel free to post your views in the comments section

http://worldsport35.wordpress.com/2012/01/17/2012-wide-receiver-prospects/

by Thomond Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:52

Justin Houston 2.0. No smart team touches a guy who has that much of a dumbass. It's not exactly great judgment now is it?

Good player projected to go in the top of the first round, but then shows a complete lack of common sense by getting busted for pot right before the the draft. Justin Houston only dropped to the top of third round.

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 21:59

Dez bryant has always been an idiot and still went in the 1st. With the secondary problems that dallas has, im pretty sure they would select him if he was still on the board.

by Thomond Tue 17 Jan 2012, 22:02

Dez Bryant never got caught smoking pot. There is a big difference betwen a guy who is actually dumb and a guy who makes an insane decision right before the combine when you are one of the top prospects in the Draft.

by Colan (niner) Tue 17 Jan 2012, 22:05

we will see come draft day but i doubt he falls to the 2nd

by thunder and lightning Wed 18 Jan 2012, 00:48

Thomond wrote:Someones draft staus dropped significantly. Could be a very nice steal later on. Bucs let's go get him in round 2.

Dre Kirkpatrick - DB - Player The Manatee County Sheriff's Office lists "Dandre Kirkpatrick" in its arrest logs as having been charged with possession of under 20 grams of marijuana on Tuesday, January 17.
Kirkpatrick, who appears clearly to be Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick, is listed at 6-foot-2, 180 and as having been born on the same date (October 26, 1989) as the top-20 draft prospect. The log says Kirkpatrick was bonded out of jail for $120. Kirkpatrick's apparent arrest just over a month before the Combine could remove him from several teams' draft boards. Kirkpatrick did not have any known off-field issues during his three years at Alabama. Source: Manatee County Sheriff's Office Jan 17 - 3:31 PM

Looks to me like he's just signalling his intention to become a Bengal.

What do you call a drug ring in Cincinnati?
A huddle.

Four Cincinnati Bengals in a car, who's driving?
The police.

by **Derbyblue** Wed 18 Jan 2012, 11:43

crazy_dave23 wrote:
Derbyblue wrote:
Barrett Trotter is leaving Auburn a year early, not actually seen anything of Cam Newtons replacement but his stats and being benched during the 7th game don't fill me with confidence for his future.

I don't believe he is leaving for the Draft. He lost his job to Clint Mosley, has already graduated and intends to pursue a masters elsewhere.
http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2012/1/17/2713355/barrett-trotter-leaving-auburn-football-senior

"Trotter is the only Auburn junior to announce he's not returning. He received his undergraduate degree last year and is working on his master's. He is staying in grad school and is planning to participate in Auburn's Pro Day tryouts in March." http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/01/auburn_quarterback_barrett_tro.html Surely if he is planning on taking part in the pro day tryouts, he is planning on trying to get a job in the NFL somewhere?

by skins4ever Wed 18 Jan 2012, 18:45

niner wrote:Here is my view on Justin Blackmon, feel free to post your views in the comments section

http://worldsport35.wordpress.com/2012/01/17/2012-wide-receiver-prospects/

From the description he sounds similar to how Jerry Rice was described before the draft...

by Colan (niner) Wed 18 Jan 2012, 20:14

Im too young to know how highly he was thought of before the draft but I suppose he isn't the biggest and wasn't the fastest but was unbelievable so hopefully blackmon can have a career half as good, hope he does, seems like a good guy by all accounts

by Colan (niner) Thu 19 Jan 2012, 16:20

My view on one of my favourite players eligible for the draft, Kendall Wright, let me know what you think of him also

http://worldsport35.wordpress.com/2012/01/19/2012-receiver-prospects/

by **Derbyblue** Thu 19 Jan 2012, 17:55

NFL have released a list of 65 draft eligible underclassmen, but some names appear to be missing for example Chris Polk who is apparently down as a senior.
» Alvester Alexander, RB, Wyoming
» Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson
» Edwin Baker, RB, Michigan State
» Mike Ball, RB, Nevada
» Jamison Berryhill, RB, Texas
» Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
» Michael Brockers, DT, Louisiana State
» Bryce Brown, RB, Kansas State
» Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State
» Orson Charles, TE, Georgia
» Morris Claiborne, DB, Louisiana State
» Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State
» David DeCastro, G, Stanford
» Tiree Eure, TE, Minnesota
» Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
» Stephon Gilmore, DB, South Carolina
» Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest
» Dorian Graham, WR, Syracuse
» Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
» Jewel Hampton, RB, Southern Illinois
» Cliff Harris, DB, Oregon
» Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama
» Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
» Ronnie Hillman, RB, San Diego State
» Max Holloway, DE, Boston College
» Jayron Hosley,, DB, Virginia Tech
» Janzen Jackson, DB, McNeese State
» LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
» Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina
» Aldarius Johnson, WR, Miami
» Damaris Johnson, WR, Tulsa
» Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse
» Matt Kalil, T, Southern California
» Dre Kirkpatrick, DB, Alabama
» Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
» Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
» Ronnell Lewis, DE, Oklahoma
» Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
» Terrell Manning, LB, North Carolina State
» Jonathan Martin, T, Stanford
» Bobby Massie, T, Mississippi
» Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois
» Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
» Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State
» Eric Page, WR, Toledo
» Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
» Nick Perry, DE, Southern California
» Bernard Pierce, RB, Temple
» Ken Plue, G, Purdue
» Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis
» Rueben Randle, WR, Louisiana State
» Riley Reiff, T, Iowa
» Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
» Josh Robinson, DB, Central Florida
» Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers
» Darrell Scott, RB, South Florida
» Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami
» Darron Thomas, QB, Oregon
» Johnny Thomas, DB, Oklahoma State
» Phillip Thomas, DB, Syracuse
» Barrett Trotter, QB, Auburn
» Olivier Vernon, DE, Miami
» Brandon Washington, T, Miami
» David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
» Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State

by Thomond Thu 19 Jan 2012, 17:58

More on Dre, he could be in a spot of bother

NFL Draft 2012: Dre Kirkpatrick Was Arrested While With Under Armour Rep
AUTHOR: Josh Sanchez | IN: 2012 NFL Draft | COMMENTS: 1 Comment

(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Some stunning details have come out today regarding yesterday’s arrest of former University of Alabama cornerback, Dre Kirkpatrick. It was originally only stated that Kirkpatrick was arrested for possession of marijuana. As it turns out, Kirkpatrick was not alone and, in fact, he was with Under Armour representative Chris Rogers.

Under Armour has said in a statement, “”Uner Armour takes these matters very seriously & we are currently conducting our own investigation.”

Kirkpatrick was in a car with Rogers, who purchased 7.9 grams of marijuana before the two were arrested. Police said that both men were under the influence. Issues like this in the past have caused numerous draft prospects to fall in the draft. This recent legal issue could see Kirkpatrick fall to the bottom of round one. You have to make smarter choices than this. Hopefully, Kirkpatrick’s lesson has been learned.

by crazy_dave23 Thu 19 Jan 2012, 20:37

niner wrote:My view on one of my favourite players eligible for the draft, Kendall Wright, let me know what you think of him also

http://worldsport35.wordpress.com/2012/01/19/2012-receiver-prospects/

Should probably get into the 1st round as he is a tidy receiver, but (ignoring the obvious Justin Blackmon) I would still rate Alshon Jeffrey and Michael Floyd ahead of him. That said I do think he has benefited a bit from having RGIII throwing him the ball and even pulling coverage to protect against his run threat.

by Colan (niner) Thu 19 Jan 2012, 21:47

I think wright could maybe go ahead of jeffery depending on jefferys combine numbers. He looks out of shape and may run in the 4.6's. I'd imagine that blackmon is top 5, floyd top 15, jeffery, wright and maybe sanu to fall between 15-32

by crazy_dave23 Thu 19 Jan 2012, 22:17

Jeffrey is falling slightly in the draft whilst Wright is rising.
I agree the Combine will probably make or break either, but going mainly on what I saw last year of Jeffrey (I didn't see so much this year to be fair) I feel that teams will love what he can bring to the position. Potential to be Hakeem Nicks like

by Colan (niner) Thu 19 Jan 2012, 22:25

You haven't missed much of him this year, he has been really unlucky with a bad qb situation this year, he only had good games when shaw took over really. I thought he was a lock for the top 5 last year. I think nicks is great but he is a pretty good route runner, jeffery is more of a jump ball specialist, who if you jam at the line won't really make many plays underneath, plus jeffery is quite a bit taller and 30 pounds heavier, if he becomes only 15 pounds more then he may run a little faster. Some tight ends are the same size and faster which is quite worrying.

by BamBam Thu 19 Jan 2012, 22:30

Last year they were comparing Jeffery to the best receivers to come out in the last 10 years, this year he hasn't been anywhere near as good and looks like he has put on weight. If he runs a 4.6 40 he will drop down a long way I reckon, a decent 40 time will put him in the 15-25 range for me

by Colan (niner) Thu 19 Jan 2012, 22:33

Yeah like i said above, i think anywhere between 15-32, if he runs a 4.55 for example, could go as high as 15, but a 4.62 and he could become a niner m8

by twelve283 Sat 21 Jan 2012, 16:01

Some updates on the EW Shrine Game from Eric Galko at Optimum Scouting: http://optimumscouting.com/2012-east-west-shrine-game-headquarters.html

Dane Brugler of CBS Sports/NFL Draft Scout EW Shrine Game report: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/16924841/shrine-practice-after-stint-in-canada-hicks-stock-now-heading-north

NFL Videos, Mike Mayock's observations from EW Shrine Game: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/09000d5d82617b88/Mayock-s-observations-from-East-West-Shrine

NFL Videos, Mike Mayock and Charles Davis preview the EW Shrine Game: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/09000d5d8262ce30/East-West-Shine-Game-preview

Russ Lande of the Sporting News looks at 10 draftable prospects participating at the EW Shrine Game: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2012-01-17/nfl-draft-2012-prospects-john-brantley-bj-cunningham-others-on-display-in-east-w

Updated Senior Bowl roster: http://www.seniorbowl.com/announced.asp

My 2012 NFL Draft Big Board Top 32

Andrew Luck, QB, 6’4, 235lbs, Stanford
Matt Kalil, OT, 6’6, 295lbs, USC
Morris Claiborne, CB, 6’0, 185lbs, LSU
Trent Richardson, RB, 5’11, 224lbs, Alabama
David DeCastro, OG, 6’5, 312lbs, Stanford
Robert Griffin III, QB, 6’2, 220lbs, Baylor
Justin Blackmon, WR, 6’1, 215lbs, Oklahoma State
Riley Reiff, OT, 6’6, 300lbs, Iowa
Michael Floyd, WR, 6’3, 224lbs, Notre Dame
Dre Kirkpatrick, DB, 6’2, 192lbs, Alabama
Nick Perry, DE, 6’3, 250lbs, USC
Donta Hightower, LB, 6’4, 260lbs, Alabama
Luke Kuechly, LB, 6’2, 237lbs, Boston College
Quinton Coples, DE, 6’6, 285lbs, UNC
Devon Still, DT, 6’4, 310lbs, PSU
Courtney Upshaw, LB, 6’2, 265lbs, Alabama
David Wilson, RB, 5’10, 205lbs, Virginia Tech
Chase Minnifield, CB, 6’0, 185lbs, Virginia
Alfonzo Dennard, CB, 5’11, 205lbs, Nebraska
Kendall Wright, WR, 5’11, 190lbs, Baylor
Melvin Ingram, DE, 6’2, 276lbs, South Carolina
Peter Konz, OL, 6’5, 315lbs, Wisconsin
Coby Fleener, TE, 6’6, 245lbs, Stanford
Mike Adams, OT, 6’8, 320lbs, Ohio State
Brandon Thompson, DT, 6’2, 310lbs, Clemson
Jonathan Martin, OT, 6’6, 305lbs, Stanford
Mark Barron, SS, 6’2, 218lbs, Alabama
Dontari Poe, DT, 6’5, 350lbs, Memphis
Janoris Jenkins, CB, 5’10, 183lbs, North Alabama
Billy Winn, DL, 6’3, 300lbs, Boise State
Lamar Miller, RB, 5’11, 212lbs, Miami
Kevin Zeitler, OG, 6’4, 318lbs, Wisconsin

I just want to make a couple of quick points, firstly the prospects included here are those I’ve been most impressed with but they won’t necessarily go in the range in have them (1st round). The need at certain positions, QB for example, will bump some guys up and some down. This big board is simply a list of, IMO, the best talent available.

As with any year there were some underclassmen who declared unexpectedly. LSU DL Michael Brockers is a good example of someone who intrigues me as a possible top 32 talent but I’m not yet comfortable projecting him there until I take a closer look. Just FYI some draft followers already have him in their top 10.

Janoris Jenkins might be a controversial inclusion in a top 32 but IMO talent wise that’s where he belongs. He's continued to make plays for North Alabama.

I have Boise State DL Billy Winn as part of a group including Fletcher Cox, Jerel Worthy and Jared Crick where the overall talent level is pretty close (Crick’s stock is damaged by injury concerns). I just feel that, although inconsistent, Winn offers a bit more with his all round game. He’s projected by most as a mid-2nd round pick but I believe he’s got 1st round upside.

Vontaze Burfict didn’t make the cut as even without his recklessness on the field I don’t believe he played to the same standard as Donta Hightower and Luke Kuechly this season. Massive upside though.

I went back and forth on Nebraska CB Alfonzo Dennard as while there is a lot to like about his game I also have a number of questions. Not yet convinced he’s a 1st round talent TBH but he was among the best of what was left.

Dontari Poe is in there on upside and because there are only so many big bodied prospects with his type of skill set out there.

List of some prospects who I feel are underrated:
Kevin Zeitler, OL, 6’4, 318lbs, Wisconsin
Shea McClellin, DE, 6’3, 255lbs, Boise State
James Michael-Johnson, LB, 6’1, 240lbs, Nevada
Mike Martin, DT, 6’1, 304lbs, Michigan
Jeff Fuller, WR, 6’3, 220lbs, Texas A&M
Derek Wolfe, DL, 6’5, 300lbs, Cincinnati
Frank Alexander, DE, 6’3, 255lbs, Oklahoma
Nick Foles, QB, 6’5, 240lbs, Arizona

I will expand on this big board soon but I’m more focused on the AFCCG this weekend. Wink

by **Derbyblue** Sat 21 Jan 2012, 17:31

Is the East-West Shrine game simply a team from the East vs a team from the West? And who chooses which players get onto the teams?

I think your big board is worthy of it's own topic if you wanted Twelve.

by twelve283 Sat 21 Jan 2012, 18:51

Derbyblue wrote:Is the East-West Shrine game simply a team from the East vs a team from the West? And who chooses which players get onto the teams?

Most of the info about the game can be found on the website: http://shrinegame.com/About.aspx

It's prospects from Eastern colleges vs. prospects from Western colleges. The Shrine game also invites prospects from the CFL to attend. The players are all invited to take part and the game usually includes the next best prospects who aren't invited to the Senior Bowl.

Derbyblue wrote:I think your big board is worthy of it's own topic if you wanted Twelve.

I just thought it would be better to keep all the draft stuff in the same place, hopefully we can get some discussion out of it.

by twelve283 Sat 21 Jan 2012, 20:06

Here are a few prospects who have reportedly been turning heads and intreging scouts during Shrine Game practices,

Firstly East team's CFL prospect Akiem Hicks, DL, 6'5, 324lbs, Regina
West team's DaJohn Harris, DL, 6'3, 308lbs, USC
West teams Tyrone Crawford, DE, 6'4, 285lbs, Boise State
and West team's Shaun Prater, CB, 5'10, 185lbs, Iowa

Here is a list of prospects I am particularly interested in(I've included brief practice reports written by Tony Pauline of Draft Insider for some):

East
Quentin Saulsberry, OL, 6'3, 302lbs, Mississippi State

Saulsberry is incredibly quick and does a great job immediately setting up off the snap. He’s explosive as hell but cannot finish blocks and on more than one occasion got pushed back off the line by opponents.

Brandon Lindsey, LB, 6'2, 255lbs, Pittsburgh
John Brantley, QB, 6'3, 219lbs, Florida

Brantley looked good in drills throwing a terrific ball which was accurate and fast. Once the scrimmage started the story changed as his passes were wayward and he just holds the ball to long in the pocket.

Tauren Poole, RB, 5'10, 206lbs, Tennessee

Poole was incredibly quick, throwing a number of moves on defenders which had them grasping for air and got a rise from the crowd at hand. He was able to create his own yardage for much of the morning.

West
Tank Carder, LB, 6'2, 236lbs, TCU
Josh Kaddu, LB, 6'3, 235lbs, Oregon

Impressed much of the day. Looked good in space after spending much of his college career in a three point stance. Quick, agile and athletic. Gets outside the numbers to make plays. Needs work but you can tell something is there.

Markus Zusevics, OL, 6'5, 296lbs, Iowa

Had his moments but also inconsistent. Looked good in one-on-ones and pass protection but does not get a lot of push run blocking.

Al Netter, OG, 6'4, 316lbs, Northwestern

Solid day for Netter. Nice size and used it to seal defenders from the play. Strong and tough.

Matt Reynolds, OT, 6'5, 310lbs, Brigham Young
Greg Childs, WR, 6'3, 215lbs, Arkansas

Childs is not fast but tough, savvy and dependable. He fought to separate from opponents, fought to make the reception and caught everything thrown in his direction. Better than average route runner as well.

Jarius Wright, WR, 5'11, 179lbs, Arkansas

We were told Wright had a tough day yesterday. Today he caught everything thrown in his direction.

EW Shrine Game preview written by Paul Emery of Football Diner/Suite 101: http://paul-emery.suite101.com/2012-east-west-shrine-game-preview-a401246

For those interested-If you click on the Optimum Scouting link in one of the above posts and go to Eric Galko's Daily Notes you can read which teams are showing specific interest to which prospects plus other interesting bits of info (character, etc.).

by Colan (niner) Sat 21 Jan 2012, 20:18

Your big board is similar to mine, only differences for me would be to have david wilson a little lower and I'd have cordy glenn and zach brown in it

by twelve283 Sat 21 Jan 2012, 23:17

niner wrote:Your big board is similar to mine, only differences for me would be to have david wilson a little lower and I'd have cordy glenn and zach brown in it

I'm not particularly high on Zach Brown. He's an athletic player who's a ++blitzer and can attack upfield but I haven't seen anything to suggest he's much more than that. Really struggles at times to get of any kind of block and gets washed out of the play easily. Doesn't read the play well and is always taking himself out of the play when flying upfield and over pursuing. He doesn't consistently wrap up well and misses tackles he should make. For me there's just not enough to his game to call him a top 32 talent.

by BamBam Sat 21 Jan 2012, 23:19

Looking forward to seeing how Nick Foles does this week, will be keeping up with all the reports i can on the Senior Bowl. Foles could be a real surprise, I watched a couple of his college games and he looked really good at times. Does anyone reckon he has a chance of sneaking into the first round like Locker and Ponder did last year?

by Colan (niner) Sun 22 Jan 2012, 12:37

I don't think zach brown is going to be amazing but his kind of speed could make him a really good will linebacker. That being said, i never really trust north carolina players as they all seem like idiots if you go by some of their recently drafted players.

Foles definately has a shot, as does tannehill but i'm not sure if there is the same desperate need for qb's that there was last year

by twelve283 Sun 22 Jan 2012, 14:28

niner wrote:I don't think zach brown is going to be amazing but his kind of speed could make him a really good will linebacker. That being said, i never really trust north carolina players as they all seem like idiots if you go by some of their recently drafted players.

Foles definately has a shot, as does tannehill but i'm not sure if there is the same desperate need for qb's that there was last year

Brown has athletic ability but he's undersized even at Will LB for a lot of teams so he's going to have to go somewhere that likes smaller, faster LBs that get upfield to be effective IMO. In the right kind of scheme I agree he could make an impact.

bambamwillis wrote:Looking forward to seeing how Nick Foles does this week, will be keeping up with all the reports i can on the Senior Bowl. Foles could be a real surprise, I watched a couple of his college games and he looked really good at times. Does anyone reckon he has a chance of sneaking into the first round like Locker and Ponder did last year?

As niner said there is always a chance that a QB gets overdrafted due to need at the position. I see Foles as somewhat underrated and he's got a chance to put on a good show at the Senior Bowl as he's got the kind of arm that scouts will covet.

Watched 3/4 of the EW Shrine Game ast night just to see some guys that I would never get the chnce to see otherwise, small school and CFL players like Akiem Hicks. Also wanted to check out some of the prospects I mentioned in my previous post. Obviously there's only so much you can take from a game like this though, simple game plans, no blitzing, soft coverage, short passes, etc, nothing complex. Would have preferred to watch the practices. In any case the 1st quarter was a display of tackling ineptitude so the less said about the actual game the better. Watching live and couldn't record and rewind so obviously couldn't watch every player closely. Three prospects I was already familiar with from the West team impressed me, LB Tank Carder and WRs Jarius Wright and Greg Childs as well as one I wasn't familiar with, OG Brandon Brooks. Brooks is a 6'5, 353lbs OL out of Miami(Ohio) who shows real power and strength when run blocking, nobody got the better of him in that department after 3/4 from what I could see. Mike Mayock was full of praise for him as well. Jarius Wright hauled in a 40 yard pass at the end of the 3rd quarter showing off his speed.

On the East team Tennessee-Chattanooga QB BJ Coleman demonstrated a decent arm and went 10/15 for 170 yards and a TD with a dropped pass. Wake Forrest DE Kyle Wilber cought my eye with a QB hit in the 1st quarter and continued to bring pressure from the weak side when he was on the field. Wilber is an undersized DE at 6'4, 248lbs who projects to rush LB in the NFL.

West team RB Lennon Creer was the most productive back of either team rushing for 80 yards off of 15 carries with a TD. He also caught a pass for 6 yards. I feel much of his production was down to solid run blocking primarily from Brandon Brooks, RT Ryan Miller and blocking TE Corey Harkey.

Here are a few random highlights from the game: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d826316d8/East-West-Shrine-Game-highlights

by **Derbyblue** Sun 22 Jan 2012, 15:18

The Shrine Game sounds like a great idea, will have to try to remember to watch next years game.

You've got Hightower, Kuechly and Upshaw in your top 32 do you think they could be around for picks #22 or #35? Think it could be a position the Browns look to improve providing they've got themselves a WR which I think should be taken in the first. Would like to think D'Qwell Jackson isn't allowed to leave, but still the LB group doesn't seem very deep after the starters Jackson, Fujita and Gocong though Maiava didn't do too bad a job when Fujita went down.

by Colan (niner) Sun 22 Jan 2012, 16:24

Hightower should be around and that would be a great pick for the browns, upshaw could drop there but i'd expect only hightower out of they 3 to be available. With the browns picks, especially if they want to go with their qb another year, trading down could help them get some amazing value

by **Derbyblue** Mon 23 Jan 2012, 18:25

Thanks Niner I'll try to watch some tape on him then, really not sure what the Browns do with the 4th pick think there's a chance they look to trade it away but then equally think they would happily take Blackmon or maybe RG III. Just been watching some game tape of Blackmon, Floyd and Wright would be happy for either of those three to be taken by Cleveland, they all have talent so it might not be such a shame if we miss out on Blackmon or trade away the chance to take him.

by crazy_dave23 Mon 23 Jan 2012, 20:51

Only Blackmon would be worth the 4th pick out of the WRs listed there.

Wright should be available at the 2nd Browns pick, Floyd is a little bit more of a long shot but could drop a bit as he has the famous "character issues"

by **Derbyblue** Tue 24 Jan 2012, 00:00

I know I don't think they would take either Floyd or Wright with the 4th pick, but they could trade down and get one of them or maybe one will fall to pick 22. Any other WRs that could be taken with either the #22 or #35 picks?

by twelve283 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 00:54

Derbyblue wrote:The Shrine Game sounds like a great idea, will have to try to remember to watch next years game.

You've got Hightower, Kuechly and Upshaw in your top 32 do you think they could be around for picks #22 or #35? Think it could be a position the Browns look to improve providing they've got themselves a WR which I think should be taken in the first. Would like to think D'Qwell Jackson isn't allowed to leave, but still the LB group doesn't seem very deep after the starters Jackson, Fujita and Gocong though Maiava didn't do too bad a job when Fujita went down.

Long way to go yet but I think they could all be available in that kind of range. (#22-#32) The real question for me would be where they would fit in the Browns defense. Hightower is listed at 260lbs and I want to see what kind of time he runs in the 40 before I project him to anything other than 34 SILB. That’s not to say he definitely can’t play MLB in a 43, even if he runs slow, but it will be scheme dependant.

Senior Bowl practice started today with weigh-ins the other day:
Senior Bowl website roster page:http://www.seniorbowl.com/rosters.asp

Senior Bowl weigh-ins and a few thoughts: http://www.draftcountdown.com/features/SeniorBowl/reports/Weigh-In.php

Arizona’s Nick Foles has the most impressive numbers of the quarterbacks, 6’5, 244lbs with big hands, 10 ¾

Impressive wide receivers include,
Juron Criner, Arizona, 6’2, 220lbs, 31” arms and 10 ½” hands, only character stuff is holding this guy back.
Jeff Fuller, Texas A&M, 6’4, 217lbs, 34” arms and 9 3/8” hands, nice long arms and I think this guy is underrated.
Dwight Jones, UNC, 6’3, 226lbs, 33” arms and 9” hands
Marvin McNutt, Iowa, 6’2, 216lbs, 31” arms and 10 1/8” hands
Brian Quick, App. State, 6’3, 222lbs, 33” arms and 9 7/8” hands

OL
Ohio State OT Mike Adams is someone who impressed me when watching games, so much so that I have him rated higher than Stanford’s Jonathan Martin, and looking at his numbers I like him even more: 6’7, 323lbs, 11” hands, arms are on the short side for an OT at a bit under 34” but still within good limits.

UAB OT Matt McCants has good measurements as well coming in at a shade under 6’6, 309lbs with 35” arms. Possible sleeper who could rise p boards if he gives a good account of himself.

DL
UNC DE Quinton Coples was a bit under 6’5, 281lbs with 33” arms

South Carolina DE Melvin Ingram came in at <6’2, 276lbs with 30 ½” arms, knew he was short but was hoping for longer arms.

Texas A&M’s Tony Jerod-Eddie has the ideal frame to play 34 DE, 6’4+, 303lbs, with long arms at 34 3/8”.

Disappointed with Shea McClellin coming in at under 250lbs, was hoping for closer to 255lbs as a potential 34 OLB.

Speaking of possible 34 OLBs Cam Johnson out of Virgina measured in at just under 6’4, 267lbs with 32 ½” arms.

Linebackers:
Zach Brown weighed more than I thought he would at 236lbs, I was expecting 230lbs or less from watching him play for UNC. Not as undersized as I thought.

Impressed with James Michael-Johnson and his measurements, 6’1 and almost 250lbs, which is impressive considering his movement on the field.

Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to watch the start of Senior Bowl practice today but here are the thoughts of some other draft followers via twitter including Matt Bitonti, Shane Hallam, Scott Wright, Tony Pauline and Wes B:

On Ohio State OT Mike Adams

The talent is there for this guy to be a top-20 pick.

Hearing that some NFL teams see OT Mike Adams as a potential top 15 talent, could be in for big week.

Mike Adams/(T/Ohio State was an abslute beast today at Senior Bowl practice.

Nebraska CB Alfonzo Dennard (not convinced he was a 1st round type and these comments don’t surprise me)

He’s a guy who opposing receivers were able to routinely outpace today as he didn’t demonstrate the type of speed needed to run out of his transition vertically.

Alfonzo Dennard had a tough time turning and running with receivers, didn't have a burst or 2nd gear, 4.6 guy?

CB Alfonzo Dennard hasn't looked like a first round pick in any way so far. Fine when action is in front but can't turn and run.

Virgina DE Cam Johnson

showcased a good get off burst, was able to reach the edge and displayed some suddenness when countering back inside.

DE Cam Johnson looks healthy, good first step, sudden counter, was impressive off edge.

Michigan DT Mike Martin (one of my underrated guys)

DT Mike Martin dominated Ohio State C Mike Brewster in 1 on 1 drills.

Cincinnati DL Derek Wolfe (another underrated prospect IMO)

DT Derek Wolfe has been outstanding too.

Wisconsin OG Kevin Zeitler (have him in my top 32)

OG Kevin Zeitler STONEWALLING guys in 7 on 7 drills. One of my stars of the day so far.

Georgia OL Cordy Glenn

No doubt that Cordy Glenn is a tackle. He was playing blind side for the South, and doing well.

Glenn has good feet. Probably more of a RT but he can hold his own.

Cal. WR Marvin Jones

Very quietly Cal. WR Marvin Jones had in my view the best receiver practice on the North Squad.

Montana CB Trumaine Johnson

Trumaine Johnson/CB/Montana pulled out of the Senior Bowl after telling officials he "was not ready"- that has sent up some red flags..

Draft Countdow Senior Bowl page: http://draftcountdown.com/features/SeniorBowl/Senior-Bowl.php

Optimum Scouting Senior Bowl page: http://optimumscouting.com/

Draft Insider Senior Bowl North squad page: http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=6026

Draft Countdown Senior Bowl Player/Team interest: http://draftcountdown.com/features/SeniorBowl/reports/Observations/Monday.php

Although I missed most of the practice I got in just in time to see the last 10 minutes or so and noticed Mike Mayock’s top 5 rankings scrolling across the bottom of the screen, some interesting stuff and not least of which was that he had Iowa OT Riley Reiff ranked above Matt Kalil out of USC. I think the OT position is a bit up in the air, top 4 are all good prospects but there seems to be a lot of different opinion on who is best. It’ll be interesting to see how that plays out.

by crazy_dave23 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 19:07

Derbyblue wrote:I know I don't think they would take either Floyd or Wright with the 4th pick, but they could trade down and get one of them or maybe one will fall to pick 22. Any other WRs that could be taken with either the #22 or #35 picks?

Probably Alshon Jeffrey or Mohammed Sanu... they would both be there at #22 and one could slip to #35.
Jeffrey is seriously talented when he wants to be and I've said before I rate him as the second WR on pure skill, but I dont think i've seen enough of him this year to know how much he appears to have regressed.

by crazy_dave23 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 19:09

Oh and thanks for that wrap up twelve Smile

by twelve283 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 21:02

crazy_dave23 wrote:Oh and thanks for that wrap up twelve

No problem. Smile

Managed to catch some of the AM Practice for the north squad and watched the DB vs. WR and DL vs. OL drills. The coverage by NFL Network wasn’t great, as per usual Rolling Eyes

, but I got a decent look at some of the prospects.

Lions HC Jim Schwartz, Cowboys DC Rob Ryan, Mike Nolan, Reggie McKenzie, Jason Garrett and VPFO of the Broncos John Elway(looking at quarterbacks no doubt Wink

)were among the onlookers at this mornings practice.

DB vs. WR
#18 George Iloka was beat badly in off man and has questionable movement skills. Later in press man he wasn’t able to get his hands on the opposing WR.

I thought #15 Alfonzo Dennard looked good when in press man, he reportedly struggled yesterday when playing off the WR so it seems to me he had a better day today. Apparently he was getting reps at nickel CB in team drills which didn’t surprise me as he measured in at under 5’10.

#13 Jamell Flemming was beat deep down the side-line and was only saved by a poorly underthrown pass.

#24 Donnie Fletcher out of Boston College was another who looked good when lined up in press man, got hands up and stuck tight to the receiver’s hip.

I saw that on one rep #23 Leonard Johnson gave up too big of a cushion when playing in off man but in press he was very competitive, being very physical at the LOS.

DL vs. OL
#98 Kendall Reyes was the most impressive DL for me, very explosive off the snap, used his hands well, showed off his spin move and got into the backfield a lot.

#68 Mike Martin also looked good. He and #50 Mike Brewster got quite heated at one point. boxing

If you’re looking for a 1 gap 43 UT outside of the early round then Martin is worth a look, provided he doesn’t raise his stock too much before the draft.

#75 Mike Adams was the best of the north squad OL IMO. Really smooth and moves well for a 6’7, 320lbs + guy. Was almost beat once by DE Jack Crawford.

Here are some more of Mike Mayock’s top 5s,
RB:
1. Trent Richardson, Alabama
2. David Wilson, Virginia Tech
3. Lamar Miller, Miami
4. Doug Martin, Boise State
5. LaMichael James, Oregon

WR:
1. Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
2. Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
3. Kendall Wright, Baylor
4. Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina
5. Chris Givens, Wake Forrest

OL (interior)
1. David DeCastro, Stanford
2. Peter Konz, Wisconsin
3. Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
4. Cordy Glenn, Georgia
5. Kelechi Osemele, Iowa State

DL
1. Devon Still, Penn State
2. Jerel Worthy, Michigan State
3. Michael Brockers, LSU
4. Brandon Thompson, Clemson
T5. Dontari Poe, Memphis
T5. Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State

DE
1. Quinton Coples, UNC
2. Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
3. Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
4. Nick Perry, USC
T5. Chandler Jones, Syracuse
T5. Andre Branch, Clemson

I have underlined the ones I find most interesting.

NFL network scheduled coverage of the Senior Bowl (if anyone has access to NFL network): http://www.seniorbowl.com/article.asp?articleID=366

Rob Rang early impressions: http://rob-rang.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/13682485/34539714

Joe Everett:
D1 North http://www.rookiedraft.com/?p=5331
D1 South http://www.rookiedraft.com/?p=5305

by BamBam Tue 24 Jan 2012, 21:14

Great write ups twelve283, really informative! I follow a couple of the guys you mentioned on Twitter, and found it interesting to see their views on Kellen Moore. One of them said that scouts were paying him a lot of attention after being impressed by just how smart a player he looked, and even said that he could be a feasible starter in a West Coast offence. Would be interested to get your views if you caught any of his practice today

by Colan (niner) Tue 24 Jan 2012, 21:39

I saw on my sports illustrated app that kirk cousins outshone moore and russell wilson with his arm strength, quick release and accuracy, maybe he will make himself some more money if he keeps training like that.

by BamBam Tue 24 Jan 2012, 22:03

Yeah I saw that report too, but then others said that he was very inconsistent with his throwing, and none of the 3 North QBs (Cousins, Moore, Wilson) really lit the place up. I still reckon Nick Foles will be the star QB of the week, haven't read any reviews of his practice yet

by twelve283 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 22:50

bambamwillis wrote:Great write ups twelve283, really informative! I follow a couple of the guys you mentioned on Twitter, and found it interesting to see their views on Kellen Moore. One of them said that scouts were paying him a lot of attention after being impressed by just how smart a player he looked, and even said that he could be a feasible starter in a West Coast offence. Would be interested to get your views if you caught any of his practice today

Cheers. I only watched the DB vs. WR and DL vs OL drills this AM so I didn't get a good look at Kellen Moore unfortunately, that said, i'm always going to be sceptical about quarterback prospects shorter than 6'0. On top of that he doesn't have the biggest arm from what i've seen when watching Boise State. There is a video of Mike Mayock giving a brief overview of the three north QBs here:http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-senior-bowl/09000d5d826443d4/Senior-Bowl-practice-North-QBs
He mentions Moore's production in college, win/loss record, ect. Interesting that he mentions watching Moore at the Manning Academy and talks about his smarts and understanding of the game as a +. The problem I have is that college production doesn't always carry over to the NFL if you don't have the physical tools among other things. I worry that if Moore can't get the velocity on his throws required to stick passes outside the numbers he wont succeed as a long term starter in the NFL.

by **Derbyblue** Tue 24 Jan 2012, 23:10

What are the opinions like for Kirk Cousins? Was given Michigan State by LeedsCowboys before the season but haven't really managed to catch many of their games and I genuinely can't remember anything from them.

Thanks Dave I'll hunt out some tape of Jeffery and Sanu, I can't see one of the first 3 Browns picks not being used to pick up a WR.

by crazy_dave23 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 23:11

Nice one again twelve.

Two points.... Chris Givens, WR out of Wake Forrest who you have listed as intriguing. I haven't really heard the name and was expecting Mohammed Sanu is as the 5th receiver in Mayocks list. What makes you think of him as intriguing?

Also Re: Kellen Moore. I agree the height is an issue though Moore is taller than Russel Wilson who people seem a little higher one... I imagine that is the mobility of Russel winning over.
I watched a little bit of Boise and consider them one of "teams to look out for" and generally found Moore to be a very complete QB at the college level. His completion stats are amazing (around 70% over over 4 years) although that has something to do with the competition.

He deserves a shot in this league simply because of the history of winning and that accuracy factor. As you say (via Mayock) he has smarts, is sensible with the ball and doesn't cause turnovers (5:1 TD to INT ratio over 4 years). Yes his arm is potentially a big problem but as a mid rounder say, 4th round I really think he is worth a shot in the right system.

* Just spotted this on my rounds which is of relevance...
http://blogs.nfl.com/2012/01/24/can-boise-states-moore-benefit-from-tebow-effect/

by crazy_dave23 Tue 24 Jan 2012, 23:16

Derbyblue wrote:What are the opinions like for Kirk Cousins? Was given Michigan State by LeedsCowboys before the season but haven't really managed to catch many of their games and I genuinely can't remember anything from them.

Thanks Dave I'll hunt out some tape of Jeffery and Sanu, I can't see one of the first 3 Browns picks not being used to pick up a WR.

The Spartans had a good last two years and Cousins has been a factor in that even with a strong running game. Sounds like he is a proper studying QB who knows his playbook and that will translate well to the NFL. Mayock even said something (in one of the links twelve posted) along the lines of him having taken leadership in the senior bowl locker room over play calling and the offensive gameplan.
Also benefits from being in a pro style offence in college, which puts him one up over most QBs although it's becoming less of a factor nowadays. For the season was 65%, 3000ish yards, 24/7 TD/INT. He's not a straight away starter or anything, but a probable second round pick for a team who has someone at QB who is serviceable, but who could do with someone to push them along... like the Browns even!

by Sponsored content