Thread for Draft Rumors - 14 Days Out

[SpringStein]

East Carolina running back Chris Johnson has been given a first round grade by over half the franchises in the N.F.L.....Eastern Kentucky cornerback Antwaun Molden is now in round one on a few teams' boards....Arkansas' Felix Jones is going to make a name on special teams before he does anything as a running back, according to my sources....Few are saying this publicly, but many N.F.L. teams love Chad Henne and think he's the best quarterback in this draft.

While many think taking Branden Albert in the top 10 is crazy, I know 50 percent of scouts think he can play left tackle and make an impact there in the N.F.L. Also, a key N.F.C. executive recently told me if Steve Hutchinson and Leonard Davis can be paid $50 million to play offensive guard, then taking a prospect like Albert in the top ten makes sense for teams that need an immediate line boost....Some think the New York Jets way overpaid for Alan Faneca and they still need to shore up the middle and offensive tackle, so drafting Albert at #6 overall could solve all their offensive line needs.

I'd draft Tennessee's Jerod Mayo before any linebacker. I think he is the next Al Wilson or Ray Lewis and he can play either scheme. But he'd probably be best suited to a 4-3 team. I, personally, see him in Cincinnati or Buffalo, if there guys don't fall to them.

Solid inside linebackers for the 3-4 can be gotten in the latter rounds. Curtis Lofton and Beau Bell can fit that bill. Keith Rivers is not a new Keith Bulluck. Bulluck is the best 4-3 outside linebacker in the league and he went at 30 back in 2000. I think Rivers is media hyped. His game film is pretty ordinary. I love Cliff Avril and Stanford Keglar of Purdue more than Rivers as far as 3-4 outside linebackers.

Word in N.F.L. circles is the Oakland Raiders will take Darren McFadden at #4 overall. New Orleans and Cincinnati both covet Sedrick Ellis, but neither will pay the price to move up in the draft to get him because they know the New York Jets will never really take him due to their scheme and the Dwyane Robertson failure.

These are but a few of the things scouts with teams stacking their boards have said. Also, many scouts believe this draft is at its best from 31-65. That is what has many teams excited."

From draftdaddy.com

[SpringStein]

The only good info we've heard so far is on OL.

* The Chiefs are now leaning heavily toward taking Branden Albert with pick #5. The thinking is that they can try him at one of the OT spots. If that fails, put him in at OG.

* Ryan Clady has not interviewed very well. He's come across as immature and even a jerk. Don't be shocked to see him slide a bit.

* Gosder Cherilus isn't the sharpest knife in the drawer. Teams that do complicated things with their linemen may not be very intersted in him.

* Steve Justice has some kind of heart condition/problem. I believe it is a small hole. Didn't affect him on the field, but you know how crazy teams are with medical issues. That could drop him a bit if there are any concerns.

* This is sorta old news, but OT Carl Nicks has major issues with his temper and dealing with authority. We heard a couple of stories about him confronting coaches in a borderline threatening manner. The kicker is that the coaches weren't being confrontational with him. Carl didn't do himself any favors when he got arrested prior to the Nebraska Pro Day and was then banned from attending the Pro Day. He's the most talented of the 2nd tier OTs, but teams will really have to decide if this is a kid they can trust enough to draft, especially with a top 60 pick.


The only other thing we heard was that DeSean Jackson has tested positive for drugs during his time at Cal. I don't know any specifics. I'm not sure if this is common knowledge or not. It is hardly surprising news either way.

From scoutsnotebook.com

[SpringStein]

douple post

[Requiem]

Thank you Spring.

[SpringStein]

np, Req.

Rivers really scares me if we draft him. I keep hoping that either Cincy or N.O. will select him before we make that mistake.

Interesting on Clady. I'd expect someone in Dove Valley is chatting with someone on the staff in Boulder who came from Boise.

[oubronco]

NO to Rivers and YES to Mayo or Lofton in the 2nd

[bap454]

np, Req.

Rivers really scares me if we draft him. I keep hoping that either Cincy or N.O. will select him before we make that mistake.

Interesting on Clady. I'd expect someone in Dove Valley is chatting with someone on the staff in Boulder who came from Boise.

Watching Rivers throughout the year, - man the kid is crazy athletic, quick, and when hes near the ball, hes like a fat kid on a cheeto. However, what really scares me about him is the fact that he seems to be out of position alot, - problem reading plays??
Did anyone catch the play at the senior bowl where he blew our beloved owen schmidts helmet off his head?

Mayo will be long gone before our second round pick.

Great thread!! Seems to be a slow year for rumors...whats the deal? Seems like last year there was endless speculation about trades and trade-ups? 8')

[Northman]

np, Req.

Rivers really scares me if we draft him. I keep hoping that either Cincy or N.O. will select him before we make that mistake.

Interesting on Clady. I'd expect someone in Dove Valley is chatting with someone on the staff in Boulder who came from Boise.


Hello Chris Williams. I did not know that about Clady, thats scary.

[bap454]

A few good tid bits.


Stewert visiting the Steelers, Ellis visiting the Bungles and Saints, Indy Looking at WR with Harrison possibly on the way out, Chris Johnson visiting the Steelers, etc.... I know visits down mean squat - its still telling on what positions teams will be looking at in the draft.

http://msn.foxsports.com/rumors/nfl

[Traveler]

Broncos | Garcon works out with team
Fri, 11 Apr 2008 19:53:40 -0700

Omar Kelly, of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, reports the Denver Broncos have brought Mount Union WR Pierre Garcon in for a workout and interview.

[SpringStein]

Broncos | Garcon works out with team
Fri, 11 Apr 2008 19:53:40 -0700

Omar Kelly, of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, reports the Denver Broncos have brought Mount Union WR Pierre Garcon in for a workout and interview.


Anyone know anything about him? Does he returns kicks or punts?

[TheDave]

Pierre Garcon

Height: 5-117/8 | Weight: 210 | 40-Time: 4.48
Wide Receiver | Senior | Mount Union

Strengths:
Very good size and bulk...Above average timed speed and quickness..Has reliable hands...An outstanding leaper...Great body control and ball skills...Runs well after the catch...Strong & physical...Solid blocker...Worked as a return man...Productive.

Weaknesses:
Did not play against top competition...Might not play quite as fast as he times...Is not a great route runner...Not real elusive...May have trouble beating the jam and separating from pro corners..Will he still be a big play and deep threat in the NFL?

Notes:
Division III standout....Was a member of the Purple Raider '06 National Champion 4x100 outdoor track relay squad...Missed time with a leg injury in 2005...Played in the Texas vs. the Nation game and led the North in receiving..An underrated small school sleeper who dominated his level...Has the physical tools to play in the NFL.

[Paladin]

Can his visit be a smoke screen?

[rugbythug]

You don't bring in D3 players to throw people off your scent.

[Drek]

Bringing Garcon in is clearly just kicking tires on late round return guys, I'd bet we're looking at more than just him. Shanahan has been looking for a return guy for about 4 drafts now.

[ohiobronco2]

Pierre Garcon

Height: 5-117/8 | Weight: 210 | 40-Time: 4.48
Wide Receiver | Senior | Mount Union

Strengths:
Very good size and bulk...Above average timed speed and quickness..Has reliable hands...An outstanding leaper...Great body control and ball skills...Runs well after the catch...Strong & physical...Solid blocker...Worked as a return man...Productive.

Weaknesses:
Did not play against top competition...Might not play quite as fast as he times...Is not a great route runner...Not real elusive...May have trouble beating the jam and separating from pro corners..Will he still be a big play and deep threat in the NFL?

Notes:
Division III standout....Was a member of the Purple Raider '06 National Champion 4x100 outdoor track relay squad...Missed time with a leg injury in 2005...Played in the Texas vs. the Nation game and led the North in receiving..An underrated small school sleeper who dominated his level...Has the physical tools to play in the NFL.

With the 12th pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select........:D

[oubronco]

sounds like Watts version 2.0

[mattob14]

Man, what happened to that epic OT class? I was high on Cherilus and Nicks as options at RT if we trade down, but now I'm not so sure. And with Clady interviewing poorly and Albert likely gone before we pick, there's not a lot left to like at #12. Chris Williams is looking better and better at #12.

[CHANGSTER]

* Ryan Clady has not interviewed very well. He's come across as immature and even a jerk. Don't be shocked to see him slide a bit.


Great, now he's stupid AND an a-hole.

[want2bAbronco2]

I didnt want clady in the first place....give me Williams!

[CHANGSTER]

I didnt want clady in the first place....give me Williams!

You asked.
http://www.orangemane.com/BB/attachment.php?attachmentid=21341&stc=1&d=1207857884

:yayaya:

[oubronco]

Broncos | Team showing strong interest in M. Kelly
Wed, 9 Apr 2008 18:47:36 -0700
John Murphy, Yahoo! Sports, reports the Denver Broncos (http://www.kffl.com/team/15/nfl) are showing strong interest in University of Oklahoma WR Malcolm Kelly (http://www.kffl.com/player/18359/nfl).

[brother love]

Pierre Garcon

Height: 5-117/8 | Weight: 210 | 40-Time: 4.48
Wide Receiver | Senior | Mount Union

Strengths:
Very good size and bulk...Above average timed speed and quickness..Has reliable hands...An outstanding leaper...Great body control and ball skills...Runs well after the catch...Strong & physical...Solid blocker...Worked as a return man...Productive.

Weaknesses:
Did not play against top competition...Might not play quite as fast as he times...Is not a great route runner...Not real elusive...May have trouble beating the jam and separating from pro corners..Will he still be a big play and deep threat in the NFL?

Notes:
Division III standout....Was a member of the Purple Raider '06 National Champion 4x100 outdoor track relay squad...Missed time with a leg injury in 2005...Played in the Texas vs. the Nation game and led the North in receiving..An underrated small school sleeper who dominated his level...Has the physical tools to play in the NFL.

Sounds like Rod Smith

[SoCalBronco]

Broncos | Team showing strong interest in M. Kelly
Wed, 9 Apr 2008 18:47:36 -0700
John Murphy, Yahoo! Sports, reports the Denver Broncos (http://www.kffl.com/team/15/nfl) are showing strong interest in University of Oklahoma WR Malcolm Kelly (http://www.kffl.com/player/18359/nfl).

Not surprising, in light of his apparent poor attitude and poor times at his pro day.

[mattob14]

Not surprising, in light of his apparent poor attitude and poor times at his pro day.

As long as they're looking at him in the 4th it makes sense. This off-season is killing his stock and he could be a steal, but the knees are still huge question marks. It's been a rough off-season for WR's from the state of Oklahoma.

[chaz]

sounds like Watts version 2.0

...except with feeling in his fingertips...? Sounds like Brandon Marshall 2.0 to me...small school guys, physical and productive, but slide due to level of competition


Edit: Not saying he is going to be B-Marsh, but just saying same type of prospect. Maybe Shanahan realized he sucks at drafting big school big name WRs so why not go after the smaller schools.

[Inkana7]

Anyone know anything about him? Does he returns kicks or punts?

He's from right up the road from me, basically. Blazingly fast. I think he returns both.

[oubronco]

As long as they're looking at him in the 4th it makes sense. This off-season is killing his stock and he could be a steal, but the knees are still huge question marks. It's been a rough off-season for WR's from the state of Oklahoma.

I'd like a link on this bad knees thing please

[Requiem]

Not surprising, in light of his apparent poor attitude and poor times at his pro day.

If we draft Malcom Kelly at #12 overall I'll probably cut off my hands just so you guys don't have to hear my drunken rants on draft day. God help us.

[mattob14]

I'd like a link on this bad knees thing please

It's been discussed at length here already. Mayock (and a couple of others)reported teams were completely taking him off their boards due to his knees. I don't have time to find the link right now, but a search on this board should get you everything you need.

[oubronco]

all i can find is people posting he has bad knees but no link and if he has bad knees he sure kicked ass on them bad knees at OU

[clint7]

If we draft Malcom Kelly at #12 overall I'll probably cut off my hands just so you guys don't have to hear my drunken rants on draft day. God help us.

You are a true team player! :)

[bpc]

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_previousnews.aspx?sport=NFL&id=4656

There are a bunch of notes on Kelly within this website.

Here's the thing that doesn't add up. The guy wants to run on astroturf, has to run on field turf/grass and gets all pissed. You either can run or you can't.

I watched him workout and he looks slow. More concerning, I watched him run the shuttle, a drill that tests quickness, flexibility and more importantly a persons ability to explode and he labored through the drill like a player who has some sort of joint injury. He didn't look fluid at all during the drill.

Now he is saying that his knee's are not hurt but he is still having issues with a "leg contusion" he suffered in the Fiesta Bowl. It's April. That was back on what, Jan 1st? It just doesn't add up.

Combine that with the fact that he declared early and something stinks here. It smells like Kelly's knees.

If we draft him bet your ass i'm going to be pissed. We're taking a Mike Williams type who doesn't even have the numbers that Williams put up.

[backup qb]

I find it hard to get worked up over draft rumors concerning us. Most know how secretive we are with our plans. I'm not saying the interest isn't legit, I just don't find it hard to believe we are that interested in Kelly unless there are strong plans to move down in the 20's.

[backup qb]

By the way, can the draft get here already? Please?!?! Thank God I'll be in Vegas for meetings the week of the 20th. That will definitely help the time pass.

[Broncoman13]

I'd consider taking Kelly in the 2nd round even. He plays faster than he times. He gets open and makes the tough catched. He reminds me a lot of Chad Johnson type of WR. Not great speed, but understands how to use it. Good hands and understands the position. Anyhow, I am betting our draft goes Branden Albert/Chris Williams in the first and DeSean Jackson/Malcolm Kelly in the 2nd. I would love to get Jackson in the 2nd! Attitude and all, I'd take him and not look back!

[peacepipe]

I'd be pissed if we drafted a WR in the 1st or 2nd round. It's not a need position.

[Drek]

I'd be pissed if we drafted a WR in the 1st or 2nd round. It's not a need position.

When we've got Marshall (who continues to be a question mark off the field) and basically nothing behind him it is a need position. We're trying to build a franchise around a new QB, wouldn't it make sense to give him more than one legit weapon to throw to?

I don't want any WRs at #12, no one in this class is good enough for that level of a selection. But if James Hardy, Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas, and maybe Desean Jackson are sitting there at #42 thats a pretty good value pick.

[peacepipe]

When we've got Marshall (who continues to be a question mark off the field) and basically nothing behind him it is a need position. We're trying to build a franchise around a new QB, wouldn't it make sense to give him more than one legit weapon to throw to?
I don't want any WRs at #12, no one in this class is good enough for that level of a selection. But if James Hardy, Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas, and maybe Desean Jackson are sitting there at #42 thats a pretty good value pick.
B. Marshall(not a question mark on the field which what matters),Colbert,Stokes will be just fine. You don't use a 1st or 2nd rounder on depth.
When you build around a QB you Start with the OL, then RB, then maybe WR,but I would take a DL before WR.

[mattob14]

B. Marshall(not a question mark on the field which what matters),Colbert,Stokes will be just fine. You don't use a 1st or 2nd rounder on depth.
When you build around a QB you Start with the OL, then RB, then maybe WR,but I would take a DL before WR.

You don't think any of these guys can beat out Colbert for the #2 spot? I guarantee Jackson, Hardy or Thomas would see the field and provide an impact at WR. Jackson, and possibly Thomas, can contribute as a PR or KR too.

WR may not be as big a need as DT, but DeSean Jackson would be a lot better talent than any DT available in round 2.

[Inkana7]

You don't think any of these guys can beat out Colbert for the #2 spot? I guarantee Jackson, Hardy or Thomas would see the field and provide an impact at WR. Jackson, and possibly Thomas, can contribute as a PR or KR too.

WR may not be as big a need as DT, but DeSean Jackson would be a lot better talent than any DT available in round 2.

Then by all means, draft DeSean Jackson in the 2nd round.. :laugh:

[SpringStein]

One of the more interesting subplots of the top ten will be to see who goes first...Glenn Dorsey or Sedrick Ellis.

Dorsey has the bigger reputation. He's the star DT. At his best, Glenn could be a Warren Sapp type of player. He is an upfield, disruptive force when healthy. He's quick, powerful, and has a great motor.

The problem with Glenn is that he's had some injury issues. If a guy is getting banged up playing 12 college games, what is he going to do in 16 pro games + preseason and training camp. Also, there are no Tulanes or Louisiana Techs where he can sit and watch the young guys play the whole 4th quarter. Durability is a hugely underrated part of NFL evaluations.

Sedrick Ellis doesn't have as much potential as Glenn, but he's the safer pick. He's been very productive throughout his career. He went to the Senior Bowl and dominated. He has no injury concerns. Some teams will also value him more becuase he's the stronger and more physical of the two.

I won't be the least bit surprised to see the Falcons take Ellis at pick 3. Sedrick would seem to fit better what I think Mike Smith is looking for in a DT. Ellis could be a very good 4-3 NT. Both guys are terrific prospects and should be very good pros.
______________________________________________


* We hear all the time about "workout warriors". This term has a negative connotation. Sometimes that isn't fair. There are some very good prospects who also happen to be really good athletes. Let's talk about some guys who could go earlier than expected because of really good workouts:

TE Dustin Keller - Could be sneak into the late 1st round? Even though he's only 6'2, 240, that is possible. Keller is a gifted receiver and top notch athlete. I think he'll go early 2nd, but some team that is looking for an offensive weapon could easily pick him in the 27-31 range.

RB Chris Johnson - Anytime you run the fastest 40 in the history of the Combine, you are going to be a coveted player. Chris needs work as a RB, but he is an above average receiver and explosive kick returner. Trung Canidate was a late 1st round pick when he came out, largely due to his speed. Johnson could also be a surprise pick from some team.

LB Tavares Gooden - I don't see Tavares as having a shot to get into the 1st. He's not a great player or great athlete. I do think he could go in the first half of Round 2. Tampa 2 teams really love athletic MLBs. Other teams could value him as a WLB.

CB Antwaun Molden - CB's that are 6'1 and almost 200 lbs and run under 4.4 are always highly sought after. Molden looks good on game tape and in workouts. The problem is trying to figure out his value. If he went to Kentucky, he might be a top 15 pick. He went to Eastern Kentucky and that is a problem. He faced lesser competition. Unlike DRC, he didn't play in the Senior Bowl, so teams haven't had a chance to see him facing top flight receivers. Do you take a chance on Molden with a late 1st? Is he more of a safe pick in the 2nd? Does he last to the 3rd round? I hate unknowns. As much as I value his ability I don't know that I'd be comfortable spending a top 40 pick on him. A lot of teams are bringing him in for visits. He might just sneak into the top 40.

S Tyrell Johnson - There is no clear-cut top Safety this year. Kenny Phillips has the biggest rep. I like DaJuan Morgan the best. Tyrell could be the #1 target for some teams. He was very productive this year. He played his best games against Texas and Tennessee. Johnson had a great showing at the Combine. Predicting where Safeties will be picked is hard. Teams value them oddly every year. I was surprised to see Roman Harper go as early as he did in 2006. I was caught off guard by Gerald Alexander last year. Johnson could be a top 40 pick and the #1 Safety off the board.

LB Marcus Howard - Talk about confusing prospects...Marcus might take the cake. He had 10.5 sacks this year as a DE at Georgia. He then went to the Combine and measured in at 6'0 1/2, 239. That is LB size. Marcus ran a blazing 40 and had a very good workout. There are a couple of problems with Marcus. He only really got on the field for one year at UGA. He was a backup in the past. He doesn't have a ton of experience. His size is awkward. He isn't a good fit for OLB in a 3-4. Thos teams generally like big OLBs. They prefer guys to be 6'3, 255...something in that range. Moving him to ILB is a big change from DE. Does he have the instincts to play inside? I don't know what his ideal fit is or where teams will value him. I don't think of him as a top 75 prospect, but some team may value his speed and athletic ability and reach for him.

QUICK HITS

* Sam Baker is being looked at by teams as a G and C, as well as OT. He might be a very good C.

* Tyvon Branch might be better suited to play S. I haven't seen any specific mention of teams looking at him there.

* I watched tape of Steve Slaton the other day. He has his issues, but Slaton is really flying under the radar. He could be a great pick in the late 3rd or early 4th.

From scoutsnotebook.com

[Mediator12]

One of the more interesting subplots of the top ten will be to see who goes first...Glenn Dorsey or Sedrick Ellis.

Dorsey has the bigger reputation. He's the star DT. At his best, Glenn could be a Warren Sapp type of player. He is an upfield, disruptive force when healthy. He's quick, powerful, and has a great motor.

The problem with Glenn is that he's had some injury issues. If a guy is getting banged up playing 12 college games, what is he going to do in 16 pro games + preseason and training camp. Also, there are no Tulanes or Louisiana Techs where he can sit and watch the young guys play the whole 4th quarter. Durability is a hugely underrated part of NFL evaluations.

Sedrick Ellis doesn't have as much potential as Glenn, but he's the safer pick. He's been very productive throughout his career. He went to the Senior Bowl and dominated. He has no injury concerns. Some teams will also value him more becuase he's the stronger and more physical of the two.

I won't be the least bit surprised to see the Falcons take Ellis at pick 3. Sedrick would seem to fit better what I think Mike Smith is looking for in a DT. Ellis could be a very good 4-3 NT. Both guys are terrific prospects and should be very good pros.
______________________________________________


* We hear all the time about "workout warriors". This term has a negative connotation. Sometimes that isn't fair. There are some very good prospects who also happen to be really good athletes. Let's talk about some guys who could go earlier than expected because of really good workouts:

TE Dustin Keller - Could be sneak into the late 1st round? Even though he's only 6'2, 240, that is possible. Keller is a gifted receiver and top notch athlete. I think he'll go early 2nd, but some team that is looking for an offensive weapon could easily pick him in the 27-31 range.

RB Chris Johnson - Anytime you run the fastest 40 in the history of the Combine, you are going to be a coveted player. Chris needs work as a RB, but he is an above average receiver and explosive kick returner. Trung Canidate was a late 1st round pick when he came out, largely due to his speed. Johnson could also be a surprise pick from some team.

LB Tavares Gooden - I don't see Tavares as having a shot to get into the 1st. He's not a great player or great athlete. I do think he could go in the first half of Round 2. Tampa 2 teams really love athletic MLBs. Other teams could value him as a WLB.

CB Antwaun Molden - CB's that are 6'1 and almost 200 lbs and run under 4.4 are always highly sought after. Molden looks good on game tape and in workouts. The problem is trying to figure out his value. If he went to Kentucky, he might be a top 15 pick. He went to Eastern Kentucky and that is a problem. He faced lesser competition. Unlike DRC, he didn't play in the Senior Bowl, so teams haven't had a chance to see him facing top flight receivers. Do you take a chance on Molden with a late 1st? Is he more of a safe pick in the 2nd? Does he last to the 3rd round? I hate unknowns. As much as I value his ability I don't know that I'd be comfortable spending a top 40 pick on him. A lot of teams are bringing him in for visits. He might just sneak into the top 40.

S Tyrell Johnson - There is no clear-cut top Safety this year. Kenny Phillips has the biggest rep. I like DaJuan Morgan the best. Tyrell could be the #1 target for some teams. He was very productive this year. He played his best games against Texas and Tennessee. Johnson had a great showing at the Combine. Predicting where Safeties will be picked is hard. Teams value them oddly every year. I was surprised to see Roman Harper go as early as he did in 2006. I was caught off guard by Gerald Alexander last year. Johnson could be a top 40 pick and the #1 Safety off the board.

LB Marcus Howard - Talk about confusing prospects...Marcus might take the cake. He had 10.5 sacks this year as a DE at Georgia. He then went to the Combine and measured in at 6'0 1/2, 239. That is LB size. Marcus ran a blazing 40 and had a very good workout. There are a couple of problems with Marcus. He only really got on the field for one year at UGA. He was a backup in the past. He doesn't have a ton of experience. His size is awkward. He isn't a good fit for OLB in a 3-4. Thos teams generally like big OLBs. They prefer guys to be 6'3, 255...something in that range. Moving him to ILB is a big change from DE. Does he have the instincts to play inside? I don't know what his ideal fit is or where teams will value him. I don't think of him as a top 75 prospect, but some team may value his speed and athletic ability and reach for him.

QUICK HITS

* Sam Baker is being looked at by teams as a G and C, as well as OT. He might be a very good C.

* Tyvon Branch might be better suited to play S. I haven't seen any specific mention of teams looking at him there.

* I watched tape of Steve Slaton the other day. He has his issues, but Slaton is really flying under the radar. He could be a great pick in the late 3rd or early 4th.

From scoutsnotebook.com

1. Workout Warriors is really an oxymoron as teams never give final grades on players until this week in the process. The Combine and pro-days are just the final tools that go into the evaluation process. The workouts are evaluated against their initial reports and guys who test well get graded accordingly by confirming the initial reports. Guys who struggle get graded down based on not having the tools they show on film potentially. However, the thing that makes the most difference is their Football and Personal Character. Those Things are never really known to the public, despite all kinds of Rumors and innuendo from the media. The media never gets to see the teams grades for the 2 types of character.

Football Character is the players ability to maximize their potential. It includes college production, progression of skills from season to season, coaches and Teachers evaluations, and football knowledge.

Personal Character is how the player conducts himself off the field. Is the player a team leader, does he have any disciplinary history, any criminal record, and how he gets along with players in the lockerroom.

This is the reason a player like Chris Henry, who was incredible on the field, dropped so much in the draft process. Some people thought he was a steal, and in just football talent he was. However, he missed all kinds of games because of his character. Same thing with Adam Jones.


2. I am Very high on Tyrell Johnson. He was a standout in his film versus Texas and TEN. Then, he went and confirmed his physical abilities with a good combine. He will need time to adjust to NFL Speed, but he has solid instincts, is a good tackler even in space, and can make plays on the ball in the air. Unfortunately, DEN addressed safety heavily in FA and I do not see DEN targeting him.

3. I really like Scouts notebook. They do a good job of telling it like it is with players on the field. The biggest problem is that that is only part of the evaluation process (see above #1). Nice free resource.

[Kaylore]

If we draft Malcom Kelly at #12 overall I'll probably cut off my hands just so you guys don't have to hear my drunken rants on draft day. God help us.
Can I have them? I want to use them in my haunted house this Halloween.

[Kaylore]

LB Marcus Howard - Talk about confusing prospects...Marcus might take the cake. He had 10.5 sacks this year as a DE at Georgia. He then went to the Combine and measured in at 6'0 1/2, 239. That is LB size. Marcus ran a blazing 40 and had a very good workout. There are a couple of problems with Marcus. He only really got on the field for one year at UGA. He was a backup in the past. He doesn't have a ton of experience. His size is awkward. He isn't a good fit for OLB in a 3-4. Thos teams generally like big OLBs. They prefer guys to be 6'3, 255...something in that range. Moving him to ILB is a big change from DE. Does he have the instincts to play inside? I don't know what his ideal fit is or where teams will value him. I don't think of him as a top 75 prospect, but some team may value his speed and athletic ability and reach for him.
Howard is a good player that got buried behind other guys (Charles Johnson) The guy has a lot of upside and will excel on a 3-4 team that knows how to use him. He'll get taken late second to third round.

[Requiem]

Regarding Parker, I've heard some rumors that if the Packers top cornerback targets aren't there at #30 -- they'd love to go the route of getting that Keller kid and give Rodgers everything he needs to succeed at QB.

[SpringStein]

4-15-08

Next week we'll start to hear a lot of talk about trades. Most of it will be mindless speculation, but you can bet NFL teams will be talking to each other about potential deals.

There generally isn't enough time on Draft day to pull off a complicated trade. Most of the groundwork is laid prior the actual event. Team A will call Team B and just talk about some possible scenarios. Teams do this to find out who wants to move up or down and who is willing to move up or down.

The two key teams in the top 20 are the Bills and Eagles. Most of the other teams have prospects that are likely to be on the board who fit what they are looking for. This assumes that there are no shocking picks.

The Bills would love a WR. There isn't one generally considered worth pick 11. They could reach for Devin Thomas. Heck, that might not be a bad idea. They could also move down 5-10 spots and take the best big receiver on the board. The Bills traded away some picks for Marcus Stroud and may want to get some extra choices back. Devin Thomas could easily still be on the board in the 15-20 range. Or Limas Sweed could be their target. They'd have options and the pick would be better value.

The Eagles are looking like a hard luck team right now. They seem to want an OT. It seems less and less likely that Chris Williams or Jeff Otah will make it to 19. The Eagles could move up to get them, but I'm not sure teams will want to deal without getting a substantial price. Any of the teams from 12-18 could teke an OT. Some flat out need one. That's a heck of a gauntlet to have to get through.

Andy Reid talked at the owners meetings about the Eagles need to improve at DT. They also went and had a workout with Kentwan Balmer, projected to go in the 20-30 range. The Eagles have had private visits with numerous top WRs. Yesterday on Sirius Radio GM Tom Heckert talked a lot about the Eagles possibly picking a WR.

I take that as the Eagles letting teams in the 20-30 range know that if you want Balmer or a top WR, you better be prepared to call Philly about a trade. There is a real good chance the board will not look good for the Eagles when pick 19 comes up. I think the Eagles will want to move back, but only if it is worth their while. Adding a 2nd rounder and dropping 8-10 spots is probably ideally what they'd like. At that point, they could grab a WR or CB. Who knows with the Eagles...they could go all over the place. The point is that they wouldn't be reaching at 19 and would have an additional pick to use.

Teams in the 12-20 range need to talk to Buffalo. Teams in the 20-30 range need to call Philadelphia.


* I watched tape of the Appalachian State Mountaineers to take another look at their 3 prospects.

WR Dexter Jackson is fast. Forget about 40 times. He plays the fastest of any player I've studied this year. Dexter absolutely "eats up the cushion" when he takes off. What I talking about is when you see DBs line up 10 yards away from him...Dexter gets to them so quickly they struggle to turn and get in position to run with him. He is the only guy I've seen all year with another gear. He can be running with a DB downfield and just separate when he wants. This is rare stuff.

Dexter isn't the most polished receiver. He does need some work. He's not just a burner, though. He'll work the middle on crossing routes. He'll block on run plays (okay for a little guy). A team would use him mostly in the slot, but would throw a deep ball or two to him every game. He has big play potential.

He is also a PR. This skill needs work. Dexter has a habit of trying to turn every punt into a TD. He circles back and reverses field and tries all kinds of crazy things. He must be more disciplined and run N-S. All that elaborate stuff he tries blows up on him anyway. Just get up the field. He might be a 3rd round pick, but I could also see him slip to the 4th if teams feel like he needs a lot of work.

FS Corey Lynch is a very good college player. He picked off 24 passes in his career and was a major leader on a team that won 3-straight I-AA titles. Corey tested better than I expected at his Pro Day. He showed how quick and agile he can be. His speed is still only okay.

Lynch has great instincts and anticipation. He reads plays well and gets a good break on the ball. I think he can make it in the NFL as a pass defender. My concern is his hitting/tackling. He's not a powerful guy. He doesn't put guys down with ease. Can he tackle Brandon Jacobs or Plaxico Burress out in space?

I think of Corey as a late round prospect. He's the kind of kid that some coaching staff could fall in love with and take as early as the 5th round.

The other prospect is LG Kerry Brown. He isn't a road grader. Don't look at him if you want a Larry Allen type. Kerry is meant to be on a running team that likes their OG's to block LBs a lot. He's good on the second level. I could see Denver or Indy very much liking him. Late round target.


* So Mario Manningham went on Sirius the other day and made a complete fool of himself. Hmmm...what do we make of this? It isn't the end of the world for Mario, but it doesn't help his case. What is the old quote... "better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it and remove all doubt." Mario would have done wisely to heed that advice or to at least be prepared for some tough questions. I can't imagine he thought people would only ask him about good stuff with the offseason he's had. How will he handle any rookie hazing? How will he handle adverse press? How will he handle nasty fans?


* I posted the profile for Mario Urrutia yesterday. He's the huge Louisville WR who came out early. Mario at his best is very intriguing. I watched him vs MTSU early in the year. He caught a slant and took it about 70 yards for a TD. Ran hard, but wasn't super fast. It was impressive to see a 6'5, 232 lb WR outrun the small DBs. He caught another slant later when the ball was thrown behind him. Compare that to the end of the year when he played as though he didn't care what happened. The ultimate sin in football is not giving full effort. I'm not talking about going 70% on a run play to the other side. I'm talking about jogging on a pass route where the ball came your way. It was picked off and Mario didn't hustle in pursuit. That is as bad as it gets.

I tend to think I wouldn't spend a pick on the kid. Could you ever really rely on him? Still, that size and skill could be too good to pass up in the 6th or 7th round. Make sure he has good coaching and veteran leaders to work with him.


again from scoutsnotebook.com
_

[CHANGSTER]

Branden Albert-G-Player Apr. 19 - 12:51 pm et

The Delaware County Times believes the Eagles would like to trade up to No. 11 to select Virginia OL Brandon Albert.
The Bills would then select Michigan St. WR Devin Thomas with the No. 19 pick. Philadelphia has 11 draft picks and veteran CB Lito Sheppard to dangle as trade bait, but this particular scenario smacks of idle beat writer musing.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?sport=NFL&id=4805

Could be bad news for you Albert fans.

[bpc]

Branden Albert-G-Player Apr. 19 - 12:51 pm et

The Delaware County Times believes the Eagles would like to trade up to No. 11 to select Virginia OL Brandon Albert.
The Bills would then select Michigan St. WR Devin Thomas with the No. 19 pick. Philadelphia has 11 draft picks and veteran CB Lito Sheppard to dangle as trade bait, but this particular scenario smacks of idle beat writer musing.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?sport=NFL&id=4805

Could be bad news for you Albert fans.

Or it could be proof that Albert is our guy as they would try and jump us.

[NFLBRONCO]

Or it could be proof that Albert is our guy as they would try and jump us.


Wouldn't you think teams assume we will go OT DT RB at 12 so they might vault us to secure one of these positions.

[SpringStein]

Today's blog from Tommy Lawlor
scoutsnotebook@gmail.com

4-21-08

This is NOT draft week. Many would have you believe that, but it isn't the case. This is actually Misinformation Week. Do not trust anything you read or hear, except from me of course. As your humble narrator, I'd never lie to you or mislead you in any way.

I know for a fact that teams spread lies directly and indirectly. "Team sources" and "league sources" are often guys told to leak info for a certain reason. I could give you examples except that I'd be shoved in a car, driven to East Germany, and turned loose without my papers. I certainly don't want that to happen again.

This week is the time to question everything you read and hear. This is the week where Doubting Thomas is the most important disciple of them all (much to the chagrin of Peter and Paul).

What makes this so tough is that there will be a tremendous amount of NFL coverage this week. You will hear insider reports from 1.2 billion sources, all claiming to be at least 1% right. Good luck finding the handful of useful nuggets that leak out. In a way, this is like the draftnik version of an Easter Egg hunt.


* We have a few 1st round prospects with medical issues this year. The big ones are DE Quentin Groves, DE Phillip Merling, and RB Jonathan Stewart.

Teams will have different grades based on the medical conditions. Some teams won't be bothered by the problems, others will. The Steelers took TE Heath Miller a couple of years back when he had a sports hernia injury. Heath played as a rookie and was good. The Eagles have had starters miss time in 2 of the last 3 years due to sports hernias. I could see the Eagles downgrading Merling because of his sports hernia, but the Steelers being less concerned.

Groves had a procedure done to fix a problem with his heart. I have no idea what this will mean. I know that Michael Lewis had an irregular heartbeat that cause him to drop 15-30 spots in the 2002 Draft. It hasn't affected his career at all.

Another former Eagle comes to mind with Stewart and his foot injury. Keith Byars reportedly had some kind of foot problem that became a hot news item prior to his getting drafted. That slid him down a few picks. Buddy Ryan grabbed him and Keith had a quality career. I don't recall any foot issues hurting him.

These guys could slide or go right where expected. Teams are very funny when it comes to medical issues.


* Darren McFadden is one of the strangest prospects I can remember. Some people feel like he is a great player and no-brainer top 5 pick. Mike Mayock thinks he's good, but has concerns. Brian Baldinger thinks he'll be a colossal bust.

I popped in the tape last night to take another look at Darren. He is a special player, but he does have issues. He is fast and makes a lot of big plays. He can be physical. He's got a great stiff arm. Darren just looks natural on the field.

On the downside, I've seen him fumble several times. He doesn't show great vision or elusiveness. I am curious how he'll fit into a conventional offense at the NFL level.

I would not spend a top ten pick on him, but I would use 11-20 to get him. Very talented player, but he does need to be used creatively.


QUICK HITS

* Please keep Mario Manningham away from the microphone this week.

* Please keep DeSean Jackson near the dinner table.

* Is the world coming to an end? Boise State, Vanderbilt, Troy, and Tennessee State are all likely to have a player drafted before Miami. The list gets even crazier for Florida State. How the mighty have fallen...