Draft Profiles:

[bpc]

Just going down the list posting players that could work for Denver. Enjoy the read. Our team is fine. We'll be alright.

Shawne Merriman:

Grade: 95
Comments: Strengths: Possesses good lower body strength for size, plays with a mean streak and should be able to hold ground at the point of attack when lined up at linebacker. Shows great range, takes adequate pursuit angles and makes plays in pursuit. Is active, fights to get off blocks and has the athletic ability to make plays in space. Plays with a great motor and always seems to be around the ball at the end of the play. Breaks down, wraps up upon contact and is a reliable open field tackler. Explodes into hits and is capable of forcing the occasional fumble. Possesses an excellent first step, does an adequate job of anticipating the snap and flashes the ability to shoot the inside gap when rushing the passer from the defensive end position. Generally takes the shortest path to the quarterback and shows excellent closing speed. Has good leaping ability and is capable of tipping some passes at the line of scrimmage. While has been nicked up at times didn't miss any time at the collegiate level and is a tough player who will play with pain. Played defensive end as well as linebacker at the college level, is big enough to line up at end as a situational pass rusher and has good versatility.
Weaknesses: Is an upfield player who primarily rushed the passer while at Maryland and while has some experience dropping into coverage is still raw in that area. Takes some false steps, is overaggressive at times and is vulnerable to play action. Doesn't always use hands well, relies on quickness to slip blocks in the open field and has some problems making the play once an offensive lineman locks on. Lacks ideal size for an every-down defensive end, will need time to develop cover skills if moves to linebacker and probably won't make an immediate contribution on defense.
Bottom line: Merriman appeared in 14 games, starting one of them, in 2002. He appeared in 13 games, starting five of them, in 2003, and he became a fulltime starter for the first time in his collegiate career in 2004. Following a breakout 2004 season with 85 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, Merriman decided to forgo his senior season to enter the 2005 draft. Considering his lack of a defined position and that he didn't redshirt while at Maryland, Merriman probably would have benefited from playing one more year of college football. He isn't fundamentally sound at this point, and he will most likely make his biggest contributions on special teams during his rookie season. However, Merriman clearly has the talent to eventually make an impact as a fulltime starter at the next level. He shows great range when defending the run, he is an explosive pass rusher and he plays with good intensity. Merriman would be an excellent fit at outside linebacker for a team that primarily runs 3-4 fronts. He's a bit of a risk-reward prospect in that he still has a lot of developing to do, but Merriman has the physical tools and upside of a mid-to-late first-round draft pick.

Travis Johnson

Grade: 94
Comments: Strengths: Is a quick, penetrating one-gap DT with adequate size for his type. Is an above average athlete. Shows excellent initial quickness and burst. Anticipates the snap well. Is quick and mobile. Is at his best when allowed to penetrate as a three-technique type. Plays with adequate leverage. Is at his best on the move. Will show closing burst as a pass rusher. Has a strong upper body. Is a powerful hitter with good open-field tackling skills. Will pursue and make plays from behind versus the run. Can be extremely disruptive as a one-gap penetrating DT versus the run. Light really came on as a senior. Is more dedicated to football and seems to have his priorities straight for the first time in his career. Is a vocal leader with excellent confidence.
Weaknesses: Has a history of character and durability problems. Was inconsistent and played with an on-and-off motor early in his career. Doesnt have great football intelligence or recognition skills. Will often get caught over-pursuing and will take himself out of plays by getting too far upfield. Has adequate size for one-gap DT but isnt massive or overpowering. Will struggle at the POA when reached by bigger OL. Lacks ideal lower body strength to anchor. Still needs to improve his array of pass rush moves.
Bottom line: Johnson played in 11 games in 2001 and was a part-time starter from 2002-03 before taking over as a fulltime starter in 2004. Johnsons draft stock is soaring thanks to his breakout senior season. Johnson is a one-gap defensive tackle prospect with very good initial quickness, mobility and short-area power. He also has adequate-to-good size for that type of DT prospect. Durability and off-the-field issues slowed his development as a junior in 2003; he had a shoulder injury that required surgery and went through a sexual assault case that eventually he was acquitted from but naturally occupied his time and energy. Healthy and on the straight-and-narrow now, Johnson is rededicated and playing the best football of his career. His motor is running at an all-time high and he has been one of the biggest impact defensive linemen in the country this season. Those aforementioned injury and character issues in the past could still haunt him on draft day but Johnson should still be one of the top defensive linemen taken in 2005, likely in the middle of the first round.

Heath Miller:

Grade: 94
Comments: Strengths: Has adequate-to-good size and the frame to continue to get bigger. He has good initial quickness and body control. Is a fluid route runner with exceptional instincts. Does an excellent job of finding windows for his quarterback. Uses his body well to shield defenders. Has rare hands and overall ball skills for a TE. Is quick to get upfield after the catch and will run with good toughness and power. He is a technically sound blocker. Shows good balance and base as a blocker. Takes good angles to his blocks in space. Is typically in good position and will work to finish.
Weaknesses: Is athletic but lacks Tony Gonzalez and Todd Heap-type of speed. Isn't going to be a huge vertical threat as a receiver. Lacks explosiveness after the catch. Has adequate bulk and strength combination but still needs to get bigger and improve lower body strength if he's going to match up physically as an in-line blocker in the NFL. He isn't overpowering and he needs to be in perfect position to consistently win at the POA as a blocker.
Bottom line: Miller was redshirted in 2001 when he was converted from quarterback to tight end, and he has started every game since (2002-'04) at the tight end position for the Cavaliers. He was the leading receiver in the nation among tight ends as a sophomore in 2003 with 70 receptions for 835 yards. Miller is an adequate but not great blocker. He also lacks elite speed as a receiver. Otherwise, he's the complete package at the tight end position. He is a solid blocker in space because of his mobility and technique. Miller also is as instinctive and reliable as it gets as a short-to-intermediate receiver. Miller will never be as explosive as Heap, but he has the potential to quickly develop into a Freddie Jones-type contributor in the NFL. If Miller elects to leave Virginia early for the NFL, he should be the top tight end taken in what shapes up as potentially weak 2005 draft class at that position.

[bpc]

Alex Barron:

Grade: 93
Comments: Strengths: Has tremendous upside because of his rare combination of size and athleticism. Has exceptional height and wingspan, and good bulk for his frame. He shows a quick set in pass protection. Rarely gets beat around the edge with pure speed. Shows balance and will rarely get caught on his heels. Really shuffles his feet well and stays under control in pass pro. Has long arms and does a very good job of forcing a wide arc from edge rushers. He is mammoth in the running game. Needs to be more physical and technically sound, but he is quick and has the feet to consistently get in position, and when he is in position he can simply engulf smaller defenders.
Weaknesses: Is still an unpolished player that lacks ideal game-experience for such a highly rated prospect. He is very athletic, but wont look it when he comes out of his stance high and plays too erect. He doesnt always take great angles and will do a poor job at times with his first step. He still needs to improve his hand-placement and overall awareness in pass pro. He is massive and has good overall strength, but still needs to play with more consistent leverage when anchoring and also needs to improve his upper body power. If he can get stronger up top and start jarring defenders with his hand punch, he can be dangerous as a pass blocking LOT in the NFL. He also has had some durability problems (knee and hand) in the past.
Bottom line: Barron redshirted in 2000 due to a torn ACL in his right knee. He saw limited time as a redshirt freshman in 01 due to a hand injury. He started five games as a sophomore in 02 and finally had a breakout season as a fulltime starter in his 03 junior season. Barron obviously had some injuries that thwarted his growth early on and he is not the most polished offensive tackle prospect in the 05 draft class. He also lacks a little bit of a mean streak and will need to become a more aggressive player in the NFL. However, he had his strongest season as a senior in 04 and his combination of size and athletic ability gives him the most upside of any senior OT in this draft class. Barron should be a mid-first round draft pick, and if he pushes himself at the next level he could develop into a perennial Pro Bowl LOT.

Dan Cody:

Grade: 93
Alerts: (M: MENTAL) Does not retain and learn the system

Comments: Strengths: Is a quick, instinctive, tough and versatile defensive lineman. Has experience rushing the passer off the edge and from the interior. He has very good anticipation skills. Also has excellent run/pass recognition skills. Is a tough, aggressive and relentless pass rusher. Has good straight-line speed and closing burst to the quarterback. Is very effective on stunts and twists. Shows good COD skills as a pass rusher. Uses a lot of outside-in moves. Does a good job of using power moves to stand OTs up and will be able to consistently work back inside as a pass rusher. He plays with good leverage and toughness versus the run. Lacks great bulk but has a powerful upper body. He is active and has a high motor versus the run. Takes good angles in pursuit and is a powerful tackler. Has a terrific work ethic and is the type of player NFL teams want on their roster.
Weaknesses: Lacks ideal bulk. Is a bit tall and lean. Lacks lower body strength and base to anchor versus the run. He will get pushed around a little bit too much when he lets OL get into his body. Lacks smooth hips. Is high-cut and has trouble in terms of turning and running in coverage. Is limited in his range when asked to drop. Clinical depression has been treated, but it still has to be a minor concern.
Bottom line: Cody played in nine games as a true freshman in 2000 and earned a starting job at defensive end as a sophomore in 01, but left the team to deal with a medical condition (clinical depression) after the season opener and wound up using his medical redshirt that season. Cody returned healthy as rotating backup in 02 before regaining his starting position as a junior in 03, when he led the Sooners with 10 sacks. He started slow as a senior but came on strong in the second half and finished the regular season (12 games) with 15 TFL and nine sacks. Cody is on medication to treat his depression but it has seemingly had no effect on his play the last two seasons and doctors tell Cody that it should continue to be a non-factor. Cody lacks ideal lower body strength of an every-down DE in the NFL and he also lacks the COD skills to drop into coverage on more than occasion. However, Codys upfield playmaking skills are what give him the potential to make a significant impact at the next level. Cody may need a season or two in a limited pass-rush specialist role but eventually he should improve his lower body strength and overall technique enough to contribute as a fulltime player in the NFL. Cody ranks among the top-five DE prospects in the 2005 class and should come off the board in the middle of the first round.

Thomas Davis:

Grade: 93
Comments: Strengths: A big, strong, powerful SS type that could be moved to OLB in the NFL. Is quick and has above average top-end speed for a SS/OLB type. At his best in run support. A big hitter with excellent size, toughness, aggressiveness, power and tackling skills. Can match up in the box. Shows the ability to shed blocks on a consistent basis and he also take great angles to the ball carrier. Has excellent range in run support, fills hard and is not afraid to throw his body around. Shows great hip explosion for a safety and packs a punch as a tackler. Also is an impressive open field tackler. When he diagnoses the play correctly, he typically takes great angles and shows very good closing burst. Has a great motor and flies around the field from sideline-to-sideline. He is instinctive in run support and as a blitzer. Reads and reacts quickly versus the run and does an excellent job of finding the football. Is always around the ball in run support. He has excellent burst and instincts as a blitzer and does a consistent job of finding gaps to shoot through. Has the speed and athletic ability to stick with most RBs and TEs one-on-one and he has enough physical tools to at least provide adequate range in zone coverage.
Weaknesses: He can be overzealous versus the play-fake and frequently will take false steps. He doesn't have nearly the feel for coverage that he has for run support. He needs to be more disciplined and to learn how to read opposing QB's eyes better. Until his recognition skills improve in coverage, he will remain a liability. He doesn't have elite hip fluidity and will struggle in most matchups against slot receivers. Has marginal ball skills for a safety and below average ball skills for an OLB. Doesn't show the consistent ability to adjust to the ball in the air. Miss-times his leaps on occasion. His hands are inconsistent and he has dropped a few potential interceptions. Also has a bad tendency to go for the body at times that he should be making a play on the ball.
Bottom line: Davis redshirted in 2001 and started four games at safety as a redshirt freshman in 2002 before taking over as a fulltime starting OLB for the Bulldogs as a sophomore in 2003. He had a breakout season in 2003 with 138 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one interception. As a senior in 2004, Davis was moved back to the DS position and earned 1st team All-American and 1st team All-SEC. He missed one game (Kentucky) due to injury in 2004 but still led the Bulldogs with 81 total tackles and finished with five TFL, three sacks and one INT. Davis is a 'tweener DS/OLB prospect that could play either position in the NFL, depending on the scheme. If he is drafted by a team favors athleticism over size (Colts), Davis is likely to make the move to OLB. If he's drafted by a team that relies on size and strength up front, Davis would fit much better as an "in the box" SS type. Either way, Davis is much more effective close to the line of scrimmage than playing 10-of-15 yards deep. He also is much more proficient at supporting the run than he is in coverage. He is one of the most explosive and productive run-supporting safeties to enter the draft in the last several years. But while he ranks up there with Roy Williams (Cowboys) in that category, he isn't nearly as consistent or versatile as Williams is in coverage. As a result, Davis is clearly the top safety prospect in this class and should come off the board in the mid-to-late area of the first round, but he's not a complete enough player to spend a top-10 selection on.

David Pollack:

Grade: 92
Comments: Strengths: A dominant and disruptive collegiate player. Epitomizes a playmaker. Has excellent anticipation and initial quickness. Shows good initial upfield burst and plays with consistent leverage. Has excellent short-area power. Will get into bigger OTs pads and knock them back. Does a great job with his hands. Is strong and stout versus the run when he needs to be. He is quick, agile, powerful and explosive. He shows the ability to change directions quickly. His instincts are exceptional. He does a terrific job of sniffing out plays and getting to the ball. He never quits on a play. His motor is relentless. He is a powerful tackler that makes a lot of big plays as a pass rusher and in pursuit of the ball carrier. Is one of the rare playmakers that always seems to be in on the big play.
Weaknesses: Lacks ideal height. Will have more trouble disengaging from bigger OTs at the NFL level. Could get engulfed more often at the POA. Is relentless as a pass rusher and should be successful in that facet in the NFL, but hes not explosively fast. He does not have the speed to run by OTs like Dwight Freeney (Colts) does. Also lacks height and long arms to consistently swim like Julius Peppers (Panthers).
Bottom line: Pollack had his breakout season as a sophomore in 2002 with 14 sacks and remained one of the elite playmaking defensive players in college football his final two seasons. Finished his junior season in 03 with 92 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and two interceptions. Made a surprise decision to return for his senior season but improved his draft value in the meantime. Pollack will never have ideal height or elite speed, but he more than makes up for it with his quickness, motor, instincts, power and relentlessness. Hes an absolute terror on the field and a mature, humble leader off the field. There isnt a more competitive or hard working player in this draft class. Pollack could play OLB in a 3-4 but he also could overcome his height limitations and become a playmaking DE in a traditional 4-3 scheme in the NFL. Either way, Pollack is a top-15 selection in the 2005 draft.

[DBroncos4life]

Sorry we are drafting Wr's and Lb's this year. We have a new scheme that will rock the NFL.

[Broncoman13]

Originally Posted by DBroncos4life

Sorry we are drafting Wr's and Lb's this year. We have a new scheme that will rock the NFL.

You are kind of right...... we are drafting LB's in WR's bodies to go along with IAN!!!!!!!!! Ugghhh. I'm trying to do my best to make good of this, Shanny is making it damn difficult though. I got off the "in shanny I trust" wagon about a year and a half ago. I think these moves will only cause more problems for him amongst the fan base.

To put this into perspective. Ian is getting more money than Wahle will get, more money than Coakley, more money than Rivera (up front anyway).... I just don't get it? I like Ian and think he can play pretty well. I just don't understand the big bonus and contract.

Herc, have you seen the contract details yet? Better be something like 8.5 signing and a 500k base this year, 750k next year, 950k the following year and then 7mil and 8mil the two following years. That would give him some pretty small cap numbers for the next couple years and the bonus money would be justified. That type of deal I can cope with. Find out Herc.... you're the man!~

[Traveler]

Originally Posted by Bronco Man 13

I got off the "in shanny I trust" wagon about a year and a half ago. I think these moves will only cause more problems for him amongst the fan base.

I actually got off when we let Shannon go. You ever been around people that have multiple college degrees? They sometimes carry themselves as better than you because they have so much education.

Well, that's my attitude towards Shanahan now. Not knowing what their plan is (or if there is one at all) he's been coming across as the book smart individual with no street sense.

I don't have a problem bringing Gold back, it's just the money they gave to him that gets me so confused. Especially since the most glaring need was along the DL. I'm trying really hard to buy into whatever this new plan is. But he's sure not making it easy. We can't continue to do everything on the cheap side.

[bpc]

Marcus Spears:

Grade: 91
Alerts: (S: SPEED) Player lacks ideal speed at position

Comments: Strengths: Is a physical specimen with terrific quickness, agility and athleticism for his size. Is versatile; has the potential to play DE and DT in a 4-3, as well as DE in a 3-4. Is a better edge rusher than his 40-time would indicate. He has very good anticipation skills and initial quickness. He is powerful as a pass rusher and does a good job of knocking OTs back onto their heals. He changes directions well for his size and will use a lot of double moves back to the inside. He is very quick when rushing the passer from the inside. He also shows very good closing burst for such a massive defensive lineman. He is stout versus the run and can be even stouter if he learns to play with more consistent leverage. His size and strength give him loads of potential as a perimeter run-stopper. He also has a nose for the ball and can be an explosive tackler. Has developed into a much harder worker. Is a leader on and off the field. Is humble and contributes a lot of time to charities.
Weaknesses: Is a little bit of a tweener DE/DT. Lacks ideal bulk and anchor to move inside fulltime, but also lacks speed as an edge rusher. Improved his technique and toughness as a senior but still has room to grow in both of those areas. Still tends to play too erect at times and loses his power when he does. Lets OL get into his pads too often when he wears down. Must continue to improve his hands and ability to disengage. He also needs to improve his array of pass rush moves.
Bottom line: Spears was also a heavily recruited basketball star coming out of the high school level but elected to stick with football. He played on both sides of the ball as a true freshman in 2001 (FB, TE and DE), but moved to defense fulltime as a sophomore in 02 and has been the teams starting LDE since. Spears had eight sacks as a junior in 2003 but was still too inconsistent and didnt play with enough aggressiveness. He made a wise decision to return for his senior season in 2004 and he showed tremendous dedication during the offseason leading up to it. Spears struggled fighting through double teams early on but he continued to improve as his senior season progressed and finished with 17 TFL and eight sacks in 12 regular season games. Spears doesnt have elite speed but hes an outstanding athlete for his size. He continues to improve his strength and he has become a much more physical and aggressive player. Spears also has a very good work ethic and has developed into a leader on and off the field. He grades out as a late-first round draft pick and, if Spears continues to dedicate himself to improving his strength and toughness, he could emerge as a premier every-down starter in the NFL with the versatility to play inside and outside both in a 3-4 and a 4-3 scheme.

Matt Roth:

Grade: 91
Comments: Strengths: Has adequate size. He is a quicker than fast pass rusher with excellent initial quickness and a tremendous motor. Is absolutely relentless as a pass rusher. Is at his best using power moves as a pass rusher. Has good COD skills and shows the ability to use double moves to get back inside. Has good closing burst to the quarterback and ball carrier. Is a powerful tackler. Has excellent instincts and run/pass recognition. Hands are outstanding. Will find the ball quickly, shows great pursuit skills, and never gives up on a play. Does a solid job of getting underneath OL pads and shows excellent power at the POA. Is a feisty run defender that will never give up on a play.
Weaknesses: Lack of ideal top end speed is a concern. Does not show the acceleration to turn the corner as a pass rusher in the NFL. Is just a decent athlete. Has limited upside. Wont be great in space at the next level. Also is a little bit of a hot head who has gotten penalties in the past for his mouth and will play out of control from time to time.
Bottom line: Roth was a first-year starter at defensive end as a sophomore in 2002 after making the transition from linebacker, where he began his career at Iowa. Roth developed into one of the top playmaking defensive linemen in the country as a junior in 03 and is one of the most underrated defenders in the 05 draft class from the Big-10. Roth finished his junior season with 51 total tackles with 16 for loss and 12 sacks. Despite facing constant double teams as a senior in 2004, Roths production did not dip. Roth is a tenacious player with adequate size, good strength and an outstanding motor. He is tough and active versus the run, and he has excellent instincts and closing quickness as a pass rusher. Roth grades out as one of the top-five defensive ends in the 2005 class and should wind up coming off the board in the mid-to-late first round. However, Roths lack of top-end speed and his occasional loss of temper could cause him to slip more than some think on draft day.

Jamaal Brown:

Grade: 90
Comments: Strengths: Is an experienced OT prospect with the potential to play LOT in the NFL. His strength is in pass protection. He has just adequate height and bulk, but he has longer arms and is very powerful. He has great quickness in his pass pro set. Stays balanced and shows very good body control when he works at it. Has excellent lateral movement skills. Is rarely beat by pure speed and shows the ability to mirror and slide versus the double move when he plays with leverage. He does a very good job in terms of hand placement and he has a jarring punch. His run blocking skills must improve, but he does have good initial quickness and is able to consistently get in position on reach blocks. He has very good initial power and has the potential to develop into an efficient run blocker in the NFL if he becomes more physical and aggressive.
Weaknesses: Has the athleticism to play LOT but lacks experience at that position. He keeps getting bigger and stronger, but he does not have ideal bulk and he has just adequate height for an elite OT prospect. He is powerful, but does not have the massive frame to simply engulf smaller defensive ends in the NFL. Isnt nearly as physical or aggressive as he needs to be. Seems like hes going through the motions some times. Is athletic but will get lazy sometimes in pass protection and will get caught overextending versus the double move. Doesnt finish as well as he should as a run blocker. He also has some durability concerns.
Bottom line: Brown was a partial qualifier who was cleared by the NCAA as a true freshman but wound up redshirting in 2000 because of a knee injury anyway. He played as a reserve right tackle as a redshirt freshman in 01 before taking over as a fulltime starter at right tackle as a sophomore in 02. Brown has been a fulltime starter and first team All-Big 12 the past three seasons (02-04). Brown doesnt have elite size but he keeps getting bigger and stronger. He has excellent feet and good overall athletic ability, which is why he shows the potential to start at the LOT position in the NFL. Brown has had his best season as a senior in 04 and hes become a more technically sound and complete player. But despite his natural ability and success on the collegiate level, Brown could drop to the bottom of the first or the top of the second round due to concerns about his overall toughness and aggressiveness. Similar to Kenyatta Walker (Buccaneers 1st round pick in 2001), theres a chance that Brown never reaches his potential in the NFL because he isnt the hardest worker or the most physical player  thats why hes a big risk-and-reward prospect.

[bpc]

Channing Crowder:

Grade: 90
Alerts: (C: CHARACTER) Problems on and off the field
(D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy

Comments: Strengths: Is an athletic, aggressive, powerful ILB prospect. Is fluid and quick. Shows good closing burst and overall speed. Fills hard and shows very good initial power at the POA. Has a strong upper body and good explosiveness with his hips. Will make some big hits and will generate big plays because of his closing speed and pop at the POA. Is a sideline-to-sideline run defender that can become even better in that facet if his recognition skills improve. His motor is outstanding and youll never see him take a play off on film. He shows good upfield burst as a pass rusher but must improve instincts and pass rush moves in order to fully maximize his potential in that facet. Is above average in man-coverage and is athletic enough to cover a majority of NFL backs out of the backfield. Has a lot of potential in zone coverage if he doesnt take as many false steps and learns to read his keys with more discipline.
Weaknesses: Still a work in progress. Plays with a great motor but will be overzealous at times. Takes too many false steps and will take some poor angles. Must be more disciplined with recognition skills. Tends to get out of position too often. Will miss some open field tackles because hes reaching after taking poor pursuit angles. Also needs to learn to break down more consistently as an open field tackler. Has some trouble when it comes to taking on and shedding blockers in the phone booth. Lacks ideal base and lower body strength. Plays too high at times when filling gaps and will lose power at the POA. Needs to learn to use his hands better and to take on blocks with better technique rather than getting out of position by running around them. Has had trouble staying healthy -- Knee injury in high school and arch injury that cost him playing time in 2004. Also has had problems staying out of trouble off of the field  served one-game suspensions in season openers of the 2003 and 2004 seasons due to separate altercations outside of a Gainesville night club.
Bottom line: Crowder is only a sophomore but he is eligible for the 2005 draft because he took a year off after graduating from high school to rehabilitate a knee injury. Crowder completed his career with 179 tackles, 13.5 of which were for a loss. He also had two sacks, recovered three fumbles, forced two fumbles and had one interception. In 2004, Crowder played in nine games and finished third on the squad in tackles with 73 as he led UF in the department six times. In 2003, he led the nation in tackles by a freshman with 106. Crowder would have been better served returning to Florida for the 2005 season because he could have used the extra year to improve his bulk, lower-body strength, recognition skills and flexibility. A full season of keeping his nose clean off the field and staying healthy enough to play every game also would have helped to erase questions concerning his character and durability. However, despite those red flags, Crowder is still a gifted athlete with the frame to get bigger, the powerful strike as a tackler and the athleticism to become an impact starter as an every-down inside linebacker in the NFL. There are certain to be NFL teams willing to gamble on that upside late in the first round of the upcoming draft.

Anttaj Hawthorne:

Grade: 89
Comments: Strengths: Has excellent size. Has a powerful upper body. Is quick and can be very disruptive. When he is playing with a high motor, he is extremely difficult to block one-on-one in the running game. He has long and strong arms that he uses to keep separation. He has a lot of powerful upper body moves in order to disengage. He shows very good initial quickness and the ability to win with his first step when hes fresh. He gets through the line, gets behind blocks, and makes a lot of plays in pursuit. Is a powerful tackler with good short-area burst when hes closing in on the quarterback or ball carrier.
Weaknesses: Motor is extremely inconsistent. Takes too many plays off. Doesnt give a consistent effort on every play. Is quick but doesnt have elite athleticism. Is stiff when it comes to changing directions. Also lacks ideal lower body strength and will get pushed around too much when OL get into his pads. Does not have good top-end speed. He wears down too quickly and needs to improve his stamina.
Bottom line: Hawthorne took over as a starter late in his true freshman season in 2001 and has been a fulltime starter since. As a junior in 03, he finished with 75 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, four sacks and two forced fumbles. He will finish his career with 41 consecutive starts and had another impressively productive season as a senior in 04 despite facing nearly constant double-team attention. Hawthorne is a powerful defensive tackle prospect with great size, good strength and impressive quickness. When he is giving a full effort and playing with leverage, he can be tough to block. However, his motor is extremely inconsistent and he has a tendency to play too high when he wears down. He takes too many plays off and wont look like the same player from one down to the next. Hawthorne has the potential to develop into an impact starter in the NFL if hes drafted by a team that uses a one-gap scheme and if he decides to work harder on-and-off the field. Because of his inconsistency and tendency to get pushed around when he plays too high, Hawthorne will slip further than many thing on draft day and could easily fall to the middle of the second round.

[bpc]

Brodney Poole:

Grade: 89
Comments: Strengths: Centerfielder-type with excellent instincts, athleticism, range and ball skills. He covers a lot of ground in zone coverage and he is a ball-hawk with proven playmaking ability. Is instinctive and intelligent. Makes quick reads and does an excellent job of diagnosing plays. Rarely takes false steps. Gets great jumps by being disciplined and reacting quicker than most. Does a very good job of reading QB's eyes in zone coverage. Rarely gets caught peeking into the backfield. Has adequate-to-good closing speed but not great. He shows some good burst when coming forward. Is at his best when he can read from the high-point and break on the ball in front of him. . If he's in the vicinity he will make a play on the ball. He has excellent height, long arms and adequate-to-good leaping ability. Does a good job of adjusting to the ball in the air and timing his leaps. Has soft and consistent hands if in position to challenge for the INT. also knocks down a lot of passes because of his quick jumps, great angles and long arms. Isn't intimidating but is very productive in run support. He fills hard and is aggressive. He diagnoses things quickly, takes good angles and always seems to be around the ball. Is a bit of a drag-down tackler but is reliable. Gets into position, breaks down in space and does a good job of wrapping up.
Weaknesses: He has a good frame but lacks ideal bulk and strength. Doesn't have great pop or power as a tackler. Won't make many big hits or force a lot of fumbles. Has adequate but not great top-end speed. Is better in zone coverage than he is man-to-man. Is a bit high-cut and has some trouble sticking with quicker WR's that can exploit his lack of ideal hip fluidity by using double moves. He doesn't show great catch-up speed if he gets out of position and is forced to turn-and-run downfield.
Bottom line: Pool played in 12 games (mostly on special teams) as a true freshman in 2002. He started 12-of-14 games in 2003 at FS and finished with 68 total tackles, seven interceptions, six pass breakups and nine tackles for loss. As a junior in 2004, Pool led the Sooners with 92 tackles and finished with two interceptions, nine passes broken up and five tackles for loss. Pool lacks elite speed and he isn't a huge hitter versus the run. However, what he lacks in physical tools he makes up for with his recognition skills and instincts. He's a playmaker that is always around the ball  versus the run and the pass. In our opinion, Pool is the best free safety prospect in the 2005 draft. He might be a bit of a reach late in the first round but would be a great value anywhere in the second round.

Mike Patterson:

Grade: 88
Alerts: (B: BULK/SIZE) Lacks size/bulk for position

Comments: Strengths: Is a well built, wide, quick and athletic NT that continues to get better with more experience. He has very good quickness and penetrating skills. Shows good initial power. Will occasionally be able to stand OL up with his initial pop and then penetrate after initial contact. He has quick swim and spin moves. Has very good run/pass recognition skills. Shows the burst to get through the LOS and does a good job of finding the ball carrier quickly. Plays with an excellent motor and is relentless in pursuit. Shows good closing burst and is a powerful tackler when he lines up a hit. Also has some big-play flair with nine fumble recoveries in his first three seasons at USC.
Weaknesses: Marginal height is a concern. Has adequate bulk and strength, but is not great in either area. He needs to be on the move to be effective. Is engulfed by taller and bigger OL. Is strictly a one-gap DT. Has shorter arms and will struggle at times to keep separation and to disengage once reached.
Bottom line: Patterson played as a backup defensive tackle as a true freshman in 2001. He took over as a fulltime starter in 2002 and has started every game since  either at the DT or NT position. As a junior in 2003, Patterson had a breakout season with 55 tackles, including 13.5 for loss with seven sacks. He was even more productive as a senior in 2004 and improved his draft value, as a result. Patterson lacks ideal height and hes never going to be able to contribute as a two-gap player in the NFL. He is, however, a great fit as a DT or NT in a one-gap penetrating scheme such as the one the Chiefs use with a four-man front and shaded nose, the Colts use with a traditional four-man front, or the one the Ravens use with a three-man front. Patterson has the potential to develop into an impact starter on a line that uses a rotation in order to keep him fresh and active. He is a shoe-in as a Day 1 selection and it wouldnt be shocking if he snuck into the latter part of the second round.

[bpc]

Kevin Burnett:

Grade: 86
Alerts: (D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy

Comments: Strengths: Has terrific upside. Is big, strong, athletic, fast and tough. Is a terrific leader and a hard worker. Takes good angles to the ball carrier in the running game. Shows the ability to use his hands and to shed blocks in space. He gets through traffic well and shows burst when closing in on the ball carrier. He has excellent top-end speed and range versus the run. Is a powerful tackler with good short-area explosiveness. Is a smooth athlete in coverage. Shows the hips, instincts, quickness and speed to match up with most NFL backs man-to-man. Has excellent range in zone coverage. Gets consistent pressure when turned loose as a pass rusher. Shows good initial quickness, instincts and top-end speed when rushing the QB.
Weaknesses: Durability is still a concern after 2002 knee injury. Recognition skills must improve. Takes too many false steps and reacts late too often, which takes away from his range. Got away with below average read-and-react skills in college because of his speed and athletic ability but he won't get away with it in the NFL. He has great athleticism in the passing game but hasn't always been a big playmaker in that area. Will knock a lot of passes down but doesn't have great ball skills and won't make many interceptions. He also is fast and instinctive as a pass rusher, but seems to lack ideal closing burst. Will get consistent pressure and hurry quarterbacks, but doesn't close quickly enough and fails to complete too many plays in that facet. Will have some trouble coming off of blocks when reached on the blitz. Doesn't have an array of pass rush moves and will get stuck too easily if reached.
Bottom line: Burnett came to Tennessee as a free safety, but was moved to linebacker midway through his true freshman season in 2000. He started two games in 2001 and was set to become the Vols' fulltime starting "weakside" linebacker in 2002 before tearing his ACL, which required reconstructive knee surgery and cost him the entire 2002 season and 2003 spring practice. As a junior in 2003, Burnett started all 13 games and finished with 77.5 total tackles, 7.5 TFL and 1.5 sacks. Burnett made a wise decision to return for his senior season in 2004 because it gave him time to fully recover and regain his speed and explosiveness. He finished 2004 with 120 tackles, six TFL, one sack and one INT. Burnett is a terrific athlete with good size and even better speed. He is excellent in coverage, has very good range in run support, and also shows good burst when turned loose as a pass rusher. Burnett does still need to improve his recognition skills and has to cut down on the amount of false steps he takes. However, his size, athletic ability and speed make him an attractive NFL prospect. Burnett likely will contribute as a nickel linebacker and special teams player as a rookie in the NFL while he develops his read-and-react skills. However, he should quickly develop into a starting WLB for the team that drafts him and he could be a steal if he slips far into the second round due to the position he plays, the durability tag that comes with him and the talent that is ahead of him at the position.

Barrett Rudd:

Grade: 85
Comments: Strengths: Is big and fast. A search and flow LB with very good recognition skills and instincts. Is at his best reading and reacting versus the run. Makes quick reads, takes excellent angles and has very good straight-line speed once he has picked out his pursuit angle. He has adequate lower and upper body strength but can improve his short-area power. Can take on block when he plays with leverage. Does a good job of using his hands to get through traffic and to disengage. Also has decent range in zone coverage because of instincts and straight-line speed. Has terrific starting experience. Is a durable player that will play through pain. Is an outstanding leader and is extremely intelligent in the classroom, film room and on the field. High character guy. Also has the perfect mentality to contribute on special teams in the NFL.
Weaknesses: Is not an elite athlete. Is fast but is a little bit too straight-line. Has some trouble stopping and starting without losing too much in transition. Will struggle at times to adjust as a tackler in space if the pursuit angle has changed. Is well-built and strong but doesnt have explosive power. Wont make jarring hits at the POA and doesnt show ideal striking ability as a tackler. He needs to play with more consistent leverage when taking on blocks in the phone booth. Also is somewhat limited in coverage. Is decent in zone but lacks the fluid hips and the COD skills to match up against a lot of quicker NFL running backs one-on-one.
Bottom line: Ruud played in every game as a true freshman backup middle linebacker and special teams player in 2001 before taking over as a fulltime starter during his 02 sophomore season. As a junior in 03, Ruud led the Huskers with 149 total tackles and also had 13 TFL, 2.5 sacks and one INT. Ruud started all 11 games as a senior in 2004 and finished the season with a Big 12-leading 143 total tackles. Ruud is a tough player that has played through several nagging injuries and he finished his career with a streak of 38 consecutive starts. Ruud isnt a great athlete in terms of his agility, COD skills or overall coverage skills. He is, however, a big, well-build, tough, fast, instinctive and intelligent middle linebacker with great experience and proven leadership skills. There are a couple of underclassmen ILBs that will get drafted ahead of him, but Ruud is our highest rated senior ILB prospect and is still a legitimate Day 1 prospect. He has the potential to contribute immediately on special teams and eventually should develop into a starter at MLB/ILB in the NFL.

Demarcus Ware:

Grade: 82
Alerts: (B: BULK/SIZE) Lacks size/bulk for position

Comments: Strengths: Is a fine athlete with a nose for the ball. Has very good initial quickness and burst. Anticipates the snap count well and wins a lot of battles with his first-step quickness. He has very good top-end speed and shows the ability to turn the corner as an edge rusher. Shows good closing burst to the quarterback as a pass rusher. He is active and instinctive versus the run. He is at his best in space, plays with a high motor, and makes a lot of plays in pursuit from behind. He also is a powerful tackler when he can line up his hit.
Weaknesses: Is vastly undersized. He has the frame to continue to get bigger, but he gets pushed around too much when reached. He must improve his overall bulk and lower body strength. He plays without leverage and allows too many blockers to get into his body. He also gets too far upfield at times and will take himself out of plays. Also needs to improve his consistency as a tackler. He has power, but misses too many open-field tackles.
Bottom line: Ware dominated the lower Division IA collegiate competition his final two seasons at Troy, as he finished his sophomore season with 19.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks, his junior season in 2003 with 16 TFL and six sacks and his senior season in 2004 with 18 TFL and 10 sacks. Ware is a vastly undersized defensive end that will either have to move to linebacker in the NFL or play a role as a situational pass rusher. His best fit would be as a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Ware is somewhat unpolished and he needs to continue to get bigger and stronger. However, his athletic ability, top-end speed and flair for making the big play as a pass rusher and run-defender makes him an attractive late-Day 1 prospect. In order to solidify a spot in the first day, Ware will need to run in the 4.6s as advertised and show potential to drop into coverage during post-season workouts for NFL scouts.

[Raider Bill]

Where are you getting these? and do they have one for Justin Tuck DE/OLB Notre Dame?

[bpc]

insiders from ESPN. I checked on Tuck but they didn't have his profile finished yet. I'll update it when they do.

I know you are a Raider fan and all but if you have any requests, throw them down and i'll get to posting them as soon as possible.

[TheManeMan]

I really think that Antajj is going to be the pick at 25...I really dont know why I have this feeling...

[orange crusher]

Originally Posted by CB-Champ24

I really think that Antajj is going to be the pick at 25...I really dont know why I have this feeling...

I'm kinda hoping your sig is correct and we get S. Cody.

[TheManeMan]

I hope so too but, I really doubt he's going to be available once Denver comes up at #25...

[Raider Bill]

Just one more please, Rian Wallace LB Temple



Thanks dude

[watermock]

watermock jr. AKA Kaptain Winky:

Grade: 94
Alerts: (B: BULK/SIZE) Lacks size/bulk for position

Comments: Strengths: Is a fine athlete with a nose for the ball. Has very good initial quickness and burst. Anticipates the snap count well. He has very good top-end speed and catlike quickness taught by his position coach, Beezlebub. Shows good closing burst to the quarterback as a pass rusher. He is active and instinctive versus the run. He is at his best in space, plays with a high motor, and makes a lot of plays in pursuit from behind. He also is a powerful tackler when he can line up his hit.
Weaknesses: Is vastly undersized. He has the frame to continue to get bigger, but he gets pushed around too much when reached. He must improve his overall bulk and lower body strength.
Bottom line: Winky dominated the lower Division IA collegiate competition his final two seasons at Troy, as he finished his season with 29.5 tackles for loss and 18 sacks, his junior season in 2003 with 26 TFL and 23 sacks and his senior season in 2004 with 48 TFL and 42 sacks. Winkie is a vastly undersized defensive end that will either have to move to linebacker in the NFL or play a role as a situational pass rusher. His best fit would be as a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Winky is somewhat unpolished and he needs to continue to get bigger and stronger. However, his athletic ability, top-end speed and flair for making the big play as a pass rusher and run-defender makes him an attractive late-Day 1 prospect. In order to solidify a spot in the first day, Kaptain Winky will have to put his off field troubles behind him.