Offensive tackles always are a hot commodity on draft day, but the 2011 class features more high-end centers and guards than in the past. As in, there should be as many interior linemen selected in the first two rounds as offensive tackles next April.
College football fans will be surprised by our rankings heading into the 2010 season because they won’t see Wisconsin’s Gabe Carimi or USC’s Kristofer O’Dowd, two guys whose hype is far greater than their performance on film.
DeMarcus Love, if he stays healthy, will most likely be a first-round pick in the 2011 NFL draft.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top offensive linemen entering the college season:
1. DeMarcus Love, OT, Arkansas, 6-5/316
He is big and athletic and just jumps off the game film. He shows the rare athleticism to make NFL line coaches drool, capable of protecting the blind side against even the best speed rushers. He also is strong enough to neutralize bull rushers inside, too. He is not a finished product, but he is so gifted and has improved so much in college that he projects as an elite NFL left tackle. In ’09, he performed better than Trent Williams and Russell Okung, the fourth- and sixth-overall picks last April. Projection: First-round pick.
2. Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College, 6-7/298
He is tall with a long, lean build and good athleticism. A three-year starter, he has experience at right and left tackle. He shows the quickness and athleticism to protect the corner from speed rushers and continues to work hard to keep his man from disrupting the play. He does need to bulk up to better hold his ground against bull rushers and more consistently block with knees bent to maintain good leverage. Projection: First-round pick.
3. Nate Solder, OT, Colorado, 6-8/303
He is a raw prospect who came to Colorado as a tight end. The transition to tackle has gone well because of his great athleticism and fluid hip movements. He shows decent knee bend but must improve his blocking technique to create better leverage against bull rushers and on in-line run blocks. He must learn to better use his hands in pass protection, but he is at his best setting the edge and creating a nice pocket for his QB. When sealing the corner, he will get his shoulders turned too early and get beaten by quick moves back to the inside. Solder could fly up draft boards this fall. Projection: Second-round pick.
4. Stefen Wisniewski, C, Penn State, 6-3/296
He is slightly undersized with limited growth potential but is an outstanding athlete. He shows excellent quickness, flexibility, body control and balance after the snap. He shows good lateral range with a natural ability to sustain blocks on the move. He is more of a tough/position run blocker than a mauler. He must get stronger to become more of a drive blocker in the running game. He is adept at sustaining "reach" blocks and reaching backside linebackers on the second level. He shows quick, strong hands with a vice grip to sustain blocks well past the whistle. In pass protection, he sustains blocks thanks to a quick hand punch and quick footwork to mirror and slide. He is smart and handles blitzes and stunts with ease. He should start as a rookie. Projection: Second-round pick.
5. Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State, 6-5/306
He is big, thick and strong, capable of dominating defenders in the running game when using good technique. He has the strength to move the pile at the point of attack. In pass protection, he will eliminate his man once he locks up on him. He must prove he has the quickness and athleticism to protect the corner against explosive NFL speed rushers. Projection: Second- or third-round pick.
6. Rodney Hudson, C/G, Florida State, 6-2/280
He is tough, competitive and strong with surprising athleticism. He also played guard and tackle in college, but he is an ideal NFL center. He has the quickness to get out of his stance and set in a blink, enabling him to play strong against bigger defensive tackles. He can pull and trap effectively and is surprisingly nimble adjusting to moving targets in the open field. His game film should merit a first-round pick, but general managers don’t draft 280-pound offensive linemen that high. Projection: Second- or third-round pick.
7. James Brewer, OT, Indiana, 6-6/333
He is a tall and well built prospect who finally got on the field in ’09 after being limited the previous two seasons by injuries. He is a powerful tackle who can dominate once locked up on defenders. He is surprisingly nimble and agile, able to handle quick pass rushers. Brewer is flying under the radar right now, but big and athletic tackles always rocket up draft boards with good senior seasons. Projection: Third-round pick.
8. Matt Reynolds, OT, BYU (junior), 6-4/329
He is only a junior, eligibility wise, but did serve on a two-year Mormon mission before he began playing at BYU and is expected to enter the ’11 draft with a solid season. He already is married and turns 23 this year. He is thickly built and shows the quick footwork to slide outside to cutoff explosive edge rushers. He shows the flexibility to pass block with good leverage, maintaining good balance to sustain blocks with ease. He is not a physical run blocker and does not move the pile at the point of attack. Projection: Third-round pick.
9. Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida, 6-6/317
If he improves as much as a senior as he did in ’09, he could move up draft boards big time. He is thick with ideal size for an NFL right tackle, but he must be more consistent. He has long arms and good strength to eliminate his man once he locks up on him. He has not shown the quickness to consistently protect the corner vs. explosive edge rushers, which could force him to move inside to guard. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
10. Ben Ijalana, G, Villanova, 6-4/320
He is the best small-school lineman who could move into the second round if able to play well at the Senior Bowl against elite competition. He is a well built and athletic prospect who plays tackle in college but projects as an NFL guard. Still, some NFL coaches might give him a shot first at tackle because of his rare athleticism. He shows the strength to physically control his man and move the pile at the point of attack. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
Offensive tackles always are a hot commodity on draft day, but the 2011 class features more high-end centers and guards than in the past. As in, there should be as many interior linemen selected in the first two rounds as offensive tackles next April.
College football fans will be surprised by our rankings heading into the 2010 season because they won’t see Wisconsin’s Gabe Carimi or USC’s Kristofer O’Dowd, two guys whose hype is far greater than their performance on film.
DeMarcus Love, if he stays healthy, will most likely be a first-round pick in the 2011 NFL draft.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top offensive linemen entering the college season:
1. DeMarcus Love, OT, Arkansas, 6-5/316
He is big and athletic and just jumps off the game film. He shows the rare athleticism to make NFL line coaches drool, capable of protecting the blind side against even the best speed rushers. He also is strong enough to neutralize bull rushers inside, too. He is not a finished product, but he is so gifted and has improved so much in college that he projects as an elite NFL left tackle. In ’09, he performed better than Trent Williams and Russell Okung, the fourth- and sixth-overall picks last April. Projection: First-round pick.
2. Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College, 6-7/298
He is tall with a long, lean build and good athleticism. A three-year starter, he has experience at right and left tackle. He shows the quickness and athleticism to protect the corner from speed rushers and continues to work hard to keep his man from disrupting the play. He does need to bulk up to better hold his ground against bull rushers and more consistently block with knees bent to maintain good leverage. Projection: First-round pick.
3. Nate Solder, OT, Colorado, 6-8/303
He is a raw prospect who came to Colorado as a tight end. The transition to tackle has gone well because of his great athleticism and fluid hip movements. He shows decent knee bend but must improve his blocking technique to create better leverage against bull rushers and on in-line run blocks. He must learn to better use his hands in pass protection, but he is at his best setting the edge and creating a nice pocket for his QB. When sealing the corner, he will get his shoulders turned too early and get beaten by quick moves back to the inside. Solder could fly up draft boards this fall. Projection: Second-round pick.
4. Stefen Wisniewski, C, Penn State, 6-3/296
He is slightly undersized with limited growth potential but is an outstanding athlete. He shows excellent quickness, flexibility, body control and balance after the snap. He shows good lateral range with a natural ability to sustain blocks on the move. He is more of a tough/position run blocker than a mauler. He must get stronger to become more of a drive blocker in the running game. He is adept at sustaining "reach" blocks and reaching backside linebackers on the second level. He shows quick, strong hands with a vice grip to sustain blocks well past the whistle. In pass protection, he sustains blocks thanks to a quick hand punch and quick footwork to mirror and slide. He is smart and handles blitzes and stunts with ease. He should start as a rookie. Projection: Second-round pick.
5. Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State, 6-5/306
He is big, thick and strong, capable of dominating defenders in the running game when using good technique. He has the strength to move the pile at the point of attack. In pass protection, he will eliminate his man once he locks up on him. He must prove he has the quickness and athleticism to protect the corner against explosive NFL speed rushers. Projection: Second- or third-round pick.
6. Rodney Hudson, C/G, Florida State, 6-2/280
He is tough, competitive and strong with surprising athleticism. He also played guard and tackle in college, but he is an ideal NFL center. He has the quickness to get out of his stance and set in a blink, enabling him to play strong against bigger defensive tackles. He can pull and trap effectively and is surprisingly nimble adjusting to moving targets in the open field. His game film should merit a first-round pick, but general managers don’t draft 280-pound offensive linemen that high. Projection: Second- or third-round pick.
7. James Brewer, OT, Indiana, 6-6/333
He is a tall and well built prospect who finally got on the field in ’09 after being limited the previous two seasons by injuries. He is a powerful tackle who can dominate once locked up on defenders. He is surprisingly nimble and agile, able to handle quick pass rushers. Brewer is flying under the radar right now, but big and athletic tackles always rocket up draft boards with good senior seasons. Projection: Third-round pick.
8. Matt Reynolds, OT, BYU (junior), 6-4/329
He is only a junior, eligibility wise, but did serve on a two-year Mormon mission before he began playing at BYU and is expected to enter the ’11 draft with a solid season. He already is married and turns 23 this year. He is thickly built and shows the quick footwork to slide outside to cutoff explosive edge rushers. He shows the flexibility to pass block with good leverage, maintaining good balance to sustain blocks with ease. He is not a physical run blocker and does not move the pile at the point of attack. Projection: Third-round pick.
9. Marcus Gilbert, OT, Florida, 6-6/317
If he improves as much as a senior as he did in ’09, he could move up draft boards big time. He is thick with ideal size for an NFL right tackle, but he must be more consistent. He has long arms and good strength to eliminate his man once he locks up on him. He has not shown the quickness to consistently protect the corner vs. explosive edge rushers, which could force him to move inside to guard. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
10. Ben Ijalana, G, Villanova, 6-4/320
He is the best small-school lineman who could move into the second round if able to play well at the Senior Bowl against elite competition. He is a well built and athletic prospect who plays tackle in college but projects as an NFL guard. Still, some NFL coaches might give him a shot first at tackle because of his rare athleticism. He shows the strength to physically control his man and move the pile at the point of attack. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
The top four receivers selected in the 2011 draft could be underclassmen, which would sustain a trend from last April’s draft, when the first five wideouts chosen were underclassmen. Look for a hot debate over whether A.J. Green and Julio Jones—both top-level prospects—will be the first wideout drafted.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior wide receivers entering the college season:
1. A.J. Green, 6-4/207, Georgia (junior)
Green exploded onto the national scene as a true freshman in 2008 when he became Matthew Stafford’s go-to guy. He has excellent height and top-notch athleticism to go with very good hands and the speed to make big plays. He can get separation on deep routes and should continue to do that in the NFL. He has consistently shown the ability to adjust and make great catches on off-target passes. The only issue is Green’s thin frame and whether he’ll be durable in the NFL. Projection: First-round pick.
2. Julio Jones, 6-4/211, Alabama (junior)
Alabama’s go-to receiver since he showed up on campus, Jones has the size, strength and athleticism to maintain a high level of production in the NFL. He has a thick body and catches passes in traffic without hesitation. He also consistently breaks tackles to gain extra yards. He has very good hands and the ability to pluck the ball away from his body with ease. The one concern is Jones’ lack of rare explosiveness, which could prevent him from getting separation on deep routes in the NFL. Projection: First-round pick.
3. Jonathan Baldwin, 6-5/225, Pittsburgh (junior)
He has surprising athleticism, consistently displays the ability to win jump-ball battles and is fearless catching passes in traffic. With his size, strength and competitiveness, he can gain yards after contact. Few 6-5 receivers have his ability to consistently make big plays—both running after the catch and catching deep passes. After a relatively quiet freshman season, he had a huge sophomore year in which he averaged nearly 20 yards on 57 catches. Projection: First-round pick.
4. Ryan Broyles, 5-11/178, Oklahoma (junior)
Broyles is a super-quick, explosive receiver who has been a big-play star at Oklahoma despite being surrounded by many talented pass catchers. He easily gets separation from defenders, makes tacklers miss and makes big plays when he gets into space. He has very good hands and has displayed the ability to make tough catches. However, his thin frame raises concerns about his ability to be durable in the NFL. Broyles should make an immediate impact as a punt returner. Projection: Late first-round or early second-round pick.
5. Niles Paul, 6-1/215, Nebraska
Paul is a well-built receiver with the size and strength to make plays after the catch. He has no fear and will catch passes in traffic, takes hard hits after the catch and holds onto the ball consistently. He is quick and agile, which really shows up in his ability to make big plays as a return man. Niles is not as well-known as many other receivers because Nebraska doesn’t have a high-powered passing attack. But NFL people have taken notice of his size, strength, athleticism and skill running with the ball. Projection: Second-round pick.
6. Dwayne Harris, 6-0/205, East Carolina
Harris is an explosive player who has made the bulk of his plays from the slot. He has the quickness, agility and burst to get off the ball and into his routes quickly and has the burst out of his cuts to separate from tight coverage. He has consistently shown the ability to get open and make clutch catches in key situations. He has the vision, instincts and running ability to make big plays in space, which shows up even more in his success as a return man. Projection: Second-round pick.
7. Michael Floyd, 6-3/220, Notre Dame (junior)
Floyd is a big, tall receiver whose draft stock could move up significantly depending on his play. When he has been healthy, he has shown the combination of athleticism, size, strength and hands to be a potential first-rounder. However, he has dealt with injuries during both his seasons at Notre Dame, and there are questions about his durability. Floyd has been productive when healthy, though he doesn’t appear to have elite speed—much like former Irish wideout Golden Tate. Projection: Second-round pick.
8. Greg Little, 6-3/215, North Carolina
Little is one of the most interesting prospects because this will be only his second full season at receiver; he formerly was a tailback. He is a big, well-built player who looks more like a tight end than a receiver, but he has the athleticism to make plays outside. He is a sure-handed receiver who has shown the ability to make tough catches with a defender on his back and break tackles to gain yards. However, he is not a quick-twitch athlete, leading to questions about whether he can consistently get separation in the NFL. Projection: Second-round pick.
9. Jerrel Jernigan, 5-9/184, Troy
Though he clearly lacks ideal size, his rare quickness, explosiveness, athleticism and speed give him the ability to consistently make big plays. He has shown the hands to make tough catches, gets upfield in a flash after the catch and has the top-end speed to take plays the distance. He has the tools to get open easily against tight man coverage and consistently makes big plays in key situations. He also has the talent to be an impact returner. Projection: Third-round pick.
10. Stephen Burton, 6-4/220, West Texas A&M
This small-school receiver has the attention of scouts. He is a tall receiver who has the quickness and explosiveness to run away from defenders and make big plays. He is a very raw prospect who needs work on his fundamentals. But if he continues to improve as much as he did in 2009, he has a chance to move up draft boards because of his combination of size, athleticism, speed and open-field running ability. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
The top four receivers selected in the 2011 draft could be underclassmen, which would sustain a trend from last April’s draft, when the first five wideouts chosen were underclassmen. Look for a hot debate over whether A.J. Green and Julio Jones—both top-level prospects—will be the first wideout drafted.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior wide receivers entering the college season:
1. A.J. Green, 6-4/207, Georgia (junior)
Green exploded onto the national scene as a true freshman in 2008 when he became Matthew Stafford’s go-to guy. He has excellent height and top-notch athleticism to go with very good hands and the speed to make big plays. He can get separation on deep routes and should continue to do that in the NFL. He has consistently shown the ability to adjust and make great catches on off-target passes. The only issue is Green’s thin frame and whether he’ll be durable in the NFL. Projection: First-round pick.
2. Julio Jones, 6-4/211, Alabama (junior)
Alabama’s go-to receiver since he showed up on campus, Jones has the size, strength and athleticism to maintain a high level of production in the NFL. He has a thick body and catches passes in traffic without hesitation. He also consistently breaks tackles to gain extra yards. He has very good hands and the ability to pluck the ball away from his body with ease. The one concern is Jones’ lack of rare explosiveness, which could prevent him from getting separation on deep routes in the NFL. Projection: First-round pick.
3. Jonathan Baldwin, 6-5/225, Pittsburgh (junior)
He has surprising athleticism, consistently displays the ability to win jump-ball battles and is fearless catching passes in traffic. With his size, strength and competitiveness, he can gain yards after contact. Few 6-5 receivers have his ability to consistently make big plays—both running after the catch and catching deep passes. After a relatively quiet freshman season, he had a huge sophomore year in which he averaged nearly 20 yards on 57 catches. Projection: First-round pick.
4. Ryan Broyles, 5-11/178, Oklahoma (junior)
Broyles is a super-quick, explosive receiver who has been a big-play star at Oklahoma despite being surrounded by many talented pass catchers. He easily gets separation from defenders, makes tacklers miss and makes big plays when he gets into space. He has very good hands and has displayed the ability to make tough catches. However, his thin frame raises concerns about his ability to be durable in the NFL. Broyles should make an immediate impact as a punt returner. Projection: Late first-round or early second-round pick.
5. Niles Paul, 6-1/215, Nebraska
Paul is a well-built receiver with the size and strength to make plays after the catch. He has no fear and will catch passes in traffic, takes hard hits after the catch and holds onto the ball consistently. He is quick and agile, which really shows up in his ability to make big plays as a return man. Niles is not as well-known as many other receivers because Nebraska doesn’t have a high-powered passing attack. But NFL people have taken notice of his size, strength, athleticism and skill running with the ball. Projection: Second-round pick.
6. Dwayne Harris, 6-0/205, East Carolina
Harris is an explosive player who has made the bulk of his plays from the slot. He has the quickness, agility and burst to get off the ball and into his routes quickly and has the burst out of his cuts to separate from tight coverage. He has consistently shown the ability to get open and make clutch catches in key situations. He has the vision, instincts and running ability to make big plays in space, which shows up even more in his success as a return man. Projection: Second-round pick.
7. Michael Floyd, 6-3/220, Notre Dame (junior)
Floyd is a big, tall receiver whose draft stock could move up significantly depending on his play. When he has been healthy, he has shown the combination of athleticism, size, strength and hands to be a potential first-rounder. However, he has dealt with injuries during both his seasons at Notre Dame, and there are questions about his durability. Floyd has been productive when healthy, though he doesn’t appear to have elite speed—much like former Irish wideout Golden Tate. Projection: Second-round pick.
8. Greg Little, 6-3/215, North Carolina
Little is one of the most interesting prospects because this will be only his second full season at receiver; he formerly was a tailback. He is a big, well-built player who looks more like a tight end than a receiver, but he has the athleticism to make plays outside. He is a sure-handed receiver who has shown the ability to make tough catches with a defender on his back and break tackles to gain yards. However, he is not a quick-twitch athlete, leading to questions about whether he can consistently get separation in the NFL. Projection: Second-round pick.
9. Jerrel Jernigan, 5-9/184, Troy
Though he clearly lacks ideal size, his rare quickness, explosiveness, athleticism and speed give him the ability to consistently make big plays. He has shown the hands to make tough catches, gets upfield in a flash after the catch and has the top-end speed to take plays the distance. He has the tools to get open easily against tight man coverage and consistently makes big plays in key situations. He also has the talent to be an impact returner. Projection: Third-round pick.
10. Stephen Burton, 6-4/220, West Texas A&M
This small-school receiver has the attention of scouts. He is a tall receiver who has the quickness and explosiveness to run away from defenders and make big plays. He is a very raw prospect who needs work on his fundamentals. But if he continues to improve as much as he did in 2009, he has a chance to move up draft boards because of his combination of size, athleticism, speed and open-field running ability. Projection: Third- or fourth-round pick.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: fullbacks.
1. Stanley Havili, 6-0/229, Southern Cal
He would have been the first fullback draft in ’10 but made the correct decision to return for his senior season. While fullbacks rarely are drafted high, Havili has the talent to be the exception if able to become a more consistent blocker. He is an athletic ballcarrier, able to run through contact and gain yardage. He also catches the ball well out of the backfield. He is not good enough to earn a living as a tailback but clearly is a level above the first fullback drafted in ’10—John Connor, selected by the Jets in the fifth round.
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: fullbacks.
1. Stanley Havili, 6-0/229, Southern Cal
He would have been the first fullback draft in ’10 but made the correct decision to return for his senior season. While fullbacks rarely are drafted high, Havili has the talent to be the exception if able to become a more consistent blocker. He is an athletic ballcarrier, able to run through contact and gain yardage. He also catches the ball well out of the backfield. He is not good enough to earn a living as a tailback but clearly is a level above the first fullback drafted in ’10—John Connor, selected by the Jets in the fifth round.
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: running backs.
Lande’s take: The list of the running backs likely to be in the 2011 draft is not nearly as impressive as the quarterback class. There are some interesting prospects but no sure-fire top 10 picks after Alabama’s Mark Ingram. However, with so many running backs playing a bigger role in NFL passing games, smaller guys like Penn State’s Evan Royster, West Virginia’s Noel Devine and Oregon State’s Jacquizz Rodgers hold more draft value than a decade ago.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior running backs entering the college season.
* — underclassman
1. Mark Ingram, 5-10/215, Alabama *
He is a strong and physical runner with rare instincts and vision. He is excellent at finding open spaces and making quick cuts to get through the hole. He runs with excellent body lean, gets his shoulders down to make himself a smaller target, runs through contact and gains yardage after contact. He will get downgraded by some personnel men because of his lack of elite speed, but we view him as an Emmitt Smith-like back with enough quickness and speed to be an elite NFL back.
2. DeMarco Murray, 6-1/216, Oklahoma
He is tough and competitive, consistently running through contact. Often runs upright but is improving at lowering his shoulder to deliver a blow to would-be tacklers. He shows the footwork and agility to make sharp jump-cuts and bounce runs outside. He shows the instincts to locate holes and burst through them. He has good—but not elite—speed and thus struggles to outrun defenders with the angle. He must learn to wrap up the ball better to avoid fumbling.
3. Graig Cooper, 6-0/205, Miami (Fla.)
He is versatile and productive as a ballcarrier, receiver and kickoff return man but is recovering from a Dec. 29 torn ACL. He is expected to play in ’10, but few players return to pre-injury form in the first year back from that injury. Cooper must stay healthy in ’10 and then show marked improvement at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. When healthy, Cooper has the athleticism, agility and elite speed to make big plays. He is an instinctive runner who finds the hole and has the explosiveness to score on any touch.
4. Daniel Thomas, 6-2/228, Kansas State
A junior college transfer, Thomas burst onto the scene in ’09. He is big and well built and keeps his legs churning and fights for every last yard, often dragging tacklers for extra yardage. He lacks the explosiveness or elite speed to excite personnel men but could have just enough to be an NFL power back.
5. Jacquizz Rodgers, 5-7/183, Oregon State
He is quick and explosive and makes big plays. He is an elusive back who makes would-be tacklers miss and turn short runs into touchdowns. He easily outruns defenders with the angle. He is short but well built, able to absorb hard hits and keep on going. Despite lack of size, he is a productive and durable feature back in college. He reminds us of the Chargers’ Darren Sproles.
6. Evan Royster, 6-0/209, Penn State
He lacks the speed to gain the corner, the elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field and the acceleration to be a big-play threat. He is most effective between the offensive tackles, securing the ball and breaking arm tackles and falling forward, but he is not in the mold of an NFL power back. In the passing game, he shows soft hands and the ability to adjust to off-target passes. He runs good routes out of the slot, too, often beating linebackers or safeties off the line. But he lacks the speed to run away from man-to-man coverage. He is smart enough to identify blitzers in pass protection and shows good strength to finish blocks.
7. Noel Devine, 5-7/174, West Virginia
He is lightning fast, a big-play threat in the return game and as a situational player on offense as a runner and receiver. He shows unmatched ability to change direction, explode through creases and score on any given play. Noel’s frame is a big concern, though. He is short and can get swallowed up by defenders. He will struggle to break arm tackles in the NFL. Durability is a definite concern. And he struggles to find open spaces in the red zone.
8. Da’Rel Scott, 5-11/195, Maryland
He is quick and explosive but got hurt last year and then had to share touches with Davin Meggett. However, Scott has many of the tools to make game-changing plays in the NFL if used correctly. He has the ability to find space and make would-be tacklers miss, contributing as a ballcarrier and receiver from different alignments. With a big senior season, Scott could fly up draft boards.
9. Roy Helu, 5-11/220, Nebraska
He was a big-time high school recruit who has developed into a good college back. He has a thick build with the size, strength and balance to run through contact and make big plays. He is a surprisingly good athlete, making sharp cuts to get through holes in a blink. Helu has the physical talent to be a high draft pick with a big senior season.
10. Kendall Hunter, 5-8/199, Oklahoma State
He is a short but thickly built back who was on the verge of becoming a star—leading the Big 12 in rushing in ’08—before struggling through an injury-filled ’09 season. He shows more quickness than pure speed, working surprisingly well in tight quarters. As a receiver, he is dangerous when getting a pass beyond the line of scrimmage because of his quickness, instincts and running skills. He must stay healthy and return to form in ’10. If he plays like he did in ’08, he could move into the third round.
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: running backs.
Lande’s take: The list of the running backs likely to be in the 2011 draft is not nearly as impressive as the quarterback class. There are some interesting prospects but no sure-fire top 10 picks after Alabama’s Mark Ingram. However, with so many running backs playing a bigger role in NFL passing games, smaller guys like Penn State’s Evan Royster, West Virginia’s Noel Devine and Oregon State’s Jacquizz Rodgers hold more draft value than a decade ago.
After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior running backs entering the college season.
* — underclassman
1. Mark Ingram, 5-10/215, Alabama *
He is a strong and physical runner with rare instincts and vision. He is excellent at finding open spaces and making quick cuts to get through the hole. He runs with excellent body lean, gets his shoulders down to make himself a smaller target, runs through contact and gains yardage after contact. He will get downgraded by some personnel men because of his lack of elite speed, but we view him as an Emmitt Smith-like back with enough quickness and speed to be an elite NFL back.
2. DeMarco Murray, 6-1/216, Oklahoma
He is tough and competitive, consistently running through contact. Often runs upright but is improving at lowering his shoulder to deliver a blow to would-be tacklers. He shows the footwork and agility to make sharp jump-cuts and bounce runs outside. He shows the instincts to locate holes and burst through them. He has good—but not elite—speed and thus struggles to outrun defenders with the angle. He must learn to wrap up the ball better to avoid fumbling.
3. Graig Cooper, 6-0/205, Miami (Fla.)
He is versatile and productive as a ballcarrier, receiver and kickoff return man but is recovering from a Dec. 29 torn ACL. He is expected to play in ’10, but few players return to pre-injury form in the first year back from that injury. Cooper must stay healthy in ’10 and then show marked improvement at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. When healthy, Cooper has the athleticism, agility and elite speed to make big plays. He is an instinctive runner who finds the hole and has the explosiveness to score on any touch.
4. Daniel Thomas, 6-2/228, Kansas State
A junior college transfer, Thomas burst onto the scene in ’09. He is big and well built and keeps his legs churning and fights for every last yard, often dragging tacklers for extra yardage. He lacks the explosiveness or elite speed to excite personnel men but could have just enough to be an NFL power back.
5. Jacquizz Rodgers, 5-7/183, Oregon State
He is quick and explosive and makes big plays. He is an elusive back who makes would-be tacklers miss and turn short runs into touchdowns. He easily outruns defenders with the angle. He is short but well built, able to absorb hard hits and keep on going. Despite lack of size, he is a productive and durable feature back in college. He reminds us of the Chargers’ Darren Sproles.
6. Evan Royster, 6-0/209, Penn State
He lacks the speed to gain the corner, the elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field and the acceleration to be a big-play threat. He is most effective between the offensive tackles, securing the ball and breaking arm tackles and falling forward, but he is not in the mold of an NFL power back. In the passing game, he shows soft hands and the ability to adjust to off-target passes. He runs good routes out of the slot, too, often beating linebackers or safeties off the line. But he lacks the speed to run away from man-to-man coverage. He is smart enough to identify blitzers in pass protection and shows good strength to finish blocks.
7. Noel Devine, 5-7/174, West Virginia
He is lightning fast, a big-play threat in the return game and as a situational player on offense as a runner and receiver. He shows unmatched ability to change direction, explode through creases and score on any given play. Noel’s frame is a big concern, though. He is short and can get swallowed up by defenders. He will struggle to break arm tackles in the NFL. Durability is a definite concern. And he struggles to find open spaces in the red zone.
8. Da’Rel Scott, 5-11/195, Maryland
He is quick and explosive but got hurt last year and then had to share touches with Davin Meggett. However, Scott has many of the tools to make game-changing plays in the NFL if used correctly. He has the ability to find space and make would-be tacklers miss, contributing as a ballcarrier and receiver from different alignments. With a big senior season, Scott could fly up draft boards.
9. Roy Helu, 5-11/220, Nebraska
He was a big-time high school recruit who has developed into a good college back. He has a thick build with the size, strength and balance to run through contact and make big plays. He is a surprisingly good athlete, making sharp cuts to get through holes in a blink. Helu has the physical talent to be a high draft pick with a big senior season.
10. Kendall Hunter, 5-8/199, Oklahoma State
He is a short but thickly built back who was on the verge of becoming a star—leading the Big 12 in rushing in ’08—before struggling through an injury-filled ’09 season. He shows more quickness than pure speed, working surprisingly well in tight quarters. As a receiver, he is dangerous when getting a pass beyond the line of scrimmage because of his quickness, instincts and running skills. He must stay healthy and return to form in ’10. If he plays like he did in ’08, he could move into the third round.
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. First up: quarterbacks.
Lande’s take: There is more debate about the rankings of this quarterback class than there has been about classes of the recent past. If you ask four scouts, they will likely give you four different rankings of the top four QBs. There are widespread opinions about the rest of this class, too. Here is a breakdown of the top 10 quarterbacks entering the 2010 college season.
* — underclassman
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford *
A redshirt sophomore, Luck is a very athletic QB who had a remarkable freshman year. If he improves as much in 2010 as he did in ’09, he could be a candidate for the top pick in the draft. He has a good, strong arm and has shown excellent accuracy while displaying the ability to make all the necessary NFL throws. He is patient and poised in the pocket and does an excellent job of reading defenses. He also is adept at moving defenders around with his eyes to open up room for his receivers.
2. Christian Ponder, Florida State
Ponder is a redshirt senior who already has an undergraduate degree in finance and his MBA. He is well-built with very good athleticism and has consistently shown the ability to make big plays with his arm and legs. He makes strong, accurate throws on all the passes NFL teams require. To take his game to the next level, however, he has to do a better job of identifying which throws need to be touch passes and which need to be gunned. With a strong senior season, he could move into the first round. Right now, he is a second- or third-rounder.
3. Jake Locker, Washington
Locker is a rare athlete with the ability to make game-changing plays with his arm or legs. He has a rocket arm and can make 20-plus yard throws downfield with uncommon zip. Based solely on 2009 film, he would be a third-round prospect. But if he improves as much in 2010 as he did in 2009 under new coach Steve Sarkisian, he could vault past all the other quarterbacks to the top of the 2011 draft.
4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
A transfer from Michigan who is a fourth-year junior, Mallet showed rare arm strength last year and flashed the passing skills to become an elite NFL quarterback. He is far from a finished product. His footwork needs to improve and he needs to quicken his release and improve his accuracy, but all the physical tools are there. When he was on his game in 2009, he looked like he had the potential to become an elite NFL quarterback.
5. Pat Devlin, Delaware
Devlin is a tall, big-armed player who is coming off a strong first season as a college starter. He began his career at Penn State and backed up Daryll Clark before transferring to Delaware. He has shown the ability to make strong and accurate throws all over the field, but he need to do a better job of getting the ball to the receiver just as he comes out of his break. He made some mistakes common to first-year starters and will have to boost his game to establish himself as an elite small-school prospect.
6. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
He is a big, athletic quarterback who has flashed the ability to make every NFL throw with zip and accuracy. If he can continue to improve, he has a chance to develop into an upper-echelon quarterback. He has the athleticism to make big plays with his legs and buy second chances in the pocket. Though he is clearly a step below the top four quarterbacks right now, he has a combination of physical skills that few prospects possess.
7. Nathan Enderle, Idaho
Enderle is a very good small-school prospect and has a chance to move up to the second or third round with a strong senior season. He is tall, with the thick build and strength to shake free from pass rushers and buy second chances. He has shown a big arm and the ability to make all the NFL throws, but he will have to prove he can make the big jump to the NFL.
8. Andy Dalton, TCU
He is shorter than ideal (just under 6-2) but is well-built with the arm strength and athleticism to make the jump to the NFL. There is little doubt he is a developmental player, but few prospects enter the NFL with Dalton’s combination of arm strength, toughness, competitiveness and excellent running skills. There is definitely upside to work with.
9. Colin Kaepernick, Nevada
Kaepernick is athletic and has been highly productive at Nevada, but he is a developmental prospect. Though he isn’t playing at a big-time program, he reminds us of Titans’ Vince Young based on his athleticism, raw mechanics and ability to make strong and accurate throws from awkward positions. With Kaepernick’s ability to carry his team, scouts think he could be one of the real surprises of the 2010 season.
10. Ricky Stanzi, Iowa
Stanzi is not a highly polished passer, but he has good size, athleticism, awareness and the knack for making plays in key situations. He is not a special talent, but he has everything it takes to be an excellent NFL backup. Quarterbacks like him often end up developing into solid, workmanlike starters after spending a number of seasons as a valued backup.
This story appears in July 14’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. First up: quarterbacks.
Lande’s take: There is more debate about the rankings of this quarterback class than there has been about classes of the recent past. If you ask four scouts, they will likely give you four different rankings of the top four QBs. There are widespread opinions about the rest of this class, too. Here is a breakdown of the top 10 quarterbacks entering the 2010 college season.
* — underclassman
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford *
A redshirt sophomore, Luck is a very athletic QB who had a remarkable freshman year. If he improves as much in 2010 as he did in ’09, he could be a candidate for the top pick in the draft. He has a good, strong arm and has shown excellent accuracy while displaying the ability to make all the necessary NFL throws. He is patient and poised in the pocket and does an excellent job of reading defenses. He also is adept at moving defenders around with his eyes to open up room for his receivers.
2. Christian Ponder, Florida State
Ponder is a redshirt senior who already has an undergraduate degree in finance and his MBA. He is well-built with very good athleticism and has consistently shown the ability to make big plays with his arm and legs. He makes strong, accurate throws on all the passes NFL teams require. To take his game to the next level, however, he has to do a better job of identifying which throws need to be touch passes and which need to be gunned. With a strong senior season, he could move into the first round. Right now, he is a second- or third-rounder.
3. Jake Locker, Washington
Locker is a rare athlete with the ability to make game-changing plays with his arm or legs. He has a rocket arm and can make 20-plus yard throws downfield with uncommon zip. Based solely on 2009 film, he would be a third-round prospect. But if he improves as much in 2010 as he did in 2009 under new coach Steve Sarkisian, he could vault past all the other quarterbacks to the top of the 2011 draft.
4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
A transfer from Michigan who is a fourth-year junior, Mallet showed rare arm strength last year and flashed the passing skills to become an elite NFL quarterback. He is far from a finished product. His footwork needs to improve and he needs to quicken his release and improve his accuracy, but all the physical tools are there. When he was on his game in 2009, he looked like he had the potential to become an elite NFL quarterback.
5. Pat Devlin, Delaware
Devlin is a tall, big-armed player who is coming off a strong first season as a college starter. He began his career at Penn State and backed up Daryll Clark before transferring to Delaware. He has shown the ability to make strong and accurate throws all over the field, but he need to do a better job of getting the ball to the receiver just as he comes out of his break. He made some mistakes common to first-year starters and will have to boost his game to establish himself as an elite small-school prospect.
6. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
He is a big, athletic quarterback who has flashed the ability to make every NFL throw with zip and accuracy. If he can continue to improve, he has a chance to develop into an upper-echelon quarterback. He has the athleticism to make big plays with his legs and buy second chances in the pocket. Though he is clearly a step below the top four quarterbacks right now, he has a combination of physical skills that few prospects possess.
7. Nathan Enderle, Idaho
Enderle is a very good small-school prospect and has a chance to move up to the second or third round with a strong senior season. He is tall, with the thick build and strength to shake free from pass rushers and buy second chances. He has shown a big arm and the ability to make all the NFL throws, but he will have to prove he can make the big jump to the NFL.
8. Andy Dalton, TCU
He is shorter than ideal (just under 6-2) but is well-built with the arm strength and athleticism to make the jump to the NFL. There is little doubt he is a developmental player, but few prospects enter the NFL with Dalton’s combination of arm strength, toughness, competitiveness and excellent running skills. There is definitely upside to work with.
9. Colin Kaepernick, Nevada
Kaepernick is athletic and has been highly productive at Nevada, but he is a developmental prospect. Though he isn’t playing at a big-time program, he reminds us of Titans’ Vince Young based on his athleticism, raw mechanics and ability to make strong and accurate throws from awkward positions. With Kaepernick’s ability to carry his team, scouts think he could be one of the real surprises of the 2010 season.
10. Ricky Stanzi, Iowa
Stanzi is not a highly polished passer, but he has good size, athleticism, awareness and the knack for making plays in key situations. He is not a special talent, but he has everything it takes to be an excellent NFL backup. Quarterbacks like him often end up developing into solid, workmanlike starters after spending a number of seasons as a valued backup.
This story appears in July 14’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
In Thursday’s supplemental draft, Chicago and Dallas gave up seventh-round picks in 2011 to add depth to their rosters. The Bears, selecting 12th in Round 7, chose BYU running back/fullback Harvey Unga. The Cowboys, selecting 30th, took Illinois nose tackle Josh Price-Brent. Northwestern (La.) State running back Quentin Castille and Truman State wideout Vanness Emokpae weren’t selected and are available to join any team as a free agent.
Harvey Unga is a good fit with the Bears, who had been relying on Jason Mckie at the tailback position for four of the past six seasons.
Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of NFL scouts break down the supplemental picks and the two players who weren’t selected:
Harvey Unga, FB-RB, Bears. The Bears acquired a big, strong back with the ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact. He is BYU’s career rushing leader with 3,455 yards and led the Mountain West Conference with 1,087 yards rushing in 2009. With Matt Forte and Chester Taylor on the Bears’ roster, however, Unga’s opportunities to carry the ball will likely be limited to short-yardage situations.
The Bears don’t have an established fullback on their roster, and this move gives them one to develop. Though Unga (6-0 3/4, 244) is not a polished or consistent blocker right now, he has the athleticism, size and strength to develop into a solid blocker. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he becomes the team’s starting fullback in 2010.
Josh Price-Brent, NT, Cowboys. The decision to grab Price-Brent makes a lot of sense for Dallas. He gives the Cowboys a big, athletic prospect who could eventually allow them to move Pro Bowl nose tackle Jay Ratliff to end in their 3-4 scheme. Ratliff’s size makes him a better fit at end, and he would have less wear and tear on the outside.
Price-Brent (6-1 3/4, 321) was a productive college lineman. He played 32 games for Illinois, including 20 starts, and put up 17 1/2 tackles for loss and five sacks. He led the team with three forced fumbles in 2009 and finished third on the team with three sacks.
If Price-Brent can take care of his off-field issues, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him become a starter in 2011. Even if he doesn’t develop quickly enough to start in ’11, he at least will bolster the depth at a critical position.
Quentin Castille, RB, and Vanness Emokpae, WR. Both face an uphill battle to make it in the NFL. Because Unga and Price-Brent were drafted, they will receive signing bonuses and thus have a good shot of making their teams for at least one season. However, Castille and Emokpae will have to try to get signed as free agents and then play catch-up since they weren’t part of a team’s offseason program. As a result, they will likely have a tough time making an active roster. At this point, they would be considered successful if they showed enough in training camp to stick on a team’s practice squad.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
In Thursday’s supplemental draft, Chicago and Dallas gave up seventh-round picks in 2011 to add depth to their rosters. The Bears, selecting 12th in Round 7, chose BYU running back/fullback Harvey Unga. The Cowboys, selecting 30th, took Illinois nose tackle Josh Price-Brent. Northwestern (La.) State running back Quentin Castille and Truman State wideout Vanness Emokpae weren’t selected and are available to join any team as a free agent.
Harvey Unga is a good fit with the Bears, who had been relying on Jason Mckie at the tailback position for four of the past six seasons.
Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of NFL scouts break down the supplemental picks and the two players who weren’t selected:
Harvey Unga, FB-RB, Bears. The Bears acquired a big, strong back with the ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact. He is BYU’s career rushing leader with 3,455 yards and led the Mountain West Conference with 1,087 yards rushing in 2009. With Matt Forte and Chester Taylor on the Bears’ roster, however, Unga’s opportunities to carry the ball will likely be limited to short-yardage situations.
The Bears don’t have an established fullback on their roster, and this move gives them one to develop. Though Unga (6-0 3/4, 244) is not a polished or consistent blocker right now, he has the athleticism, size and strength to develop into a solid blocker. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he becomes the team’s starting fullback in 2010.
Josh Price-Brent, NT, Cowboys. The decision to grab Price-Brent makes a lot of sense for Dallas. He gives the Cowboys a big, athletic prospect who could eventually allow them to move Pro Bowl nose tackle Jay Ratliff to end in their 3-4 scheme. Ratliff’s size makes him a better fit at end, and he would have less wear and tear on the outside.
Price-Brent (6-1 3/4, 321) was a productive college lineman. He played 32 games for Illinois, including 20 starts, and put up 17 1/2 tackles for loss and five sacks. He led the team with three forced fumbles in 2009 and finished third on the team with three sacks.
If Price-Brent can take care of his off-field issues, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him become a starter in 2011. Even if he doesn’t develop quickly enough to start in ’11, he at least will bolster the depth at a critical position.
Quentin Castille, RB, and Vanness Emokpae, WR. Both face an uphill battle to make it in the NFL. Because Unga and Price-Brent were drafted, they will receive signing bonuses and thus have a good shot of making their teams for at least one season. However, Castille and Emokpae will have to try to get signed as free agents and then play catch-up since they weren’t part of a team’s offseason program. As a result, they will likely have a tough time making an active roster. At this point, they would be considered successful if they showed enough in training camp to stick on a team’s practice squad.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Quentin Castille, a Northwestern State (La.) who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Is a tough, very competitive runner; fights for extra yards. Keeps legs churning; runs thru arm/grab tackles. Usually runs upright initially, but gets shoulders down to deliver blow when close to defenders. Flashes ability to deliver a violent blow to opponent, knocking him over. Breaks tackle and gains yards after contact. Is smooth, athletic; can change directions well enough to avoid tacklers. Is instinctive runner. Has good vision, excellent patience following blockers. Cuts off blockers blocks well. Usually bends knees well to pass block with good technique. Can deliver hard blow to pass rusher, stopping him in tracks. Shows good hands as a receiver. Runs well after the catch because he does such a good job of following his blockers.
Weaknesses: Is more smooth than quick and explosive. Lacks quick/explosive burst around the corner or through hole. Lacks playing speed to make long runs. Has solid playing speed, but gets chased down from behind. Is less effective when tacklers get to him while he is upright. Has not proved he can be a productive, feature back. Is more of a one-cut runner than an elusive runner.
Bottom line: Castillo came out early after a disappointing 2009 season. He began his college career at Nebraska and was a contributing part of their running back committee in 2008 and seemed on his way to a productive career. However, he violated team rules during a bowl game, which lead him to be dismissed. He transferred to Northwestern State. We would not draft him. Castillo will get a chance as a free agent, but will have a hard time establishing himself.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Quentin Castille, a Northwestern State (La.) who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Is a tough, very competitive runner; fights for extra yards. Keeps legs churning; runs thru arm/grab tackles. Usually runs upright initially, but gets shoulders down to deliver blow when close to defenders. Flashes ability to deliver a violent blow to opponent, knocking him over. Breaks tackle and gains yards after contact. Is smooth, athletic; can change directions well enough to avoid tacklers. Is instinctive runner. Has good vision, excellent patience following blockers. Cuts off blockers blocks well. Usually bends knees well to pass block with good technique. Can deliver hard blow to pass rusher, stopping him in tracks. Shows good hands as a receiver. Runs well after the catch because he does such a good job of following his blockers.
Weaknesses: Is more smooth than quick and explosive. Lacks quick/explosive burst around the corner or through hole. Lacks playing speed to make long runs. Has solid playing speed, but gets chased down from behind. Is less effective when tacklers get to him while he is upright. Has not proved he can be a productive, feature back. Is more of a one-cut runner than an elusive runner.
Bottom line: Castillo came out early after a disappointing 2009 season. He began his college career at Nebraska and was a contributing part of their running back committee in 2008 and seemed on his way to a productive career. However, he violated team rules during a bowl game, which lead him to be dismissed. He transferred to Northwestern State. We would not draft him. Castillo will get a chance as a free agent, but will have a hard time establishing himself.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Harvey Unga, a former BYU running back who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Is big, well built with the playing strength, balance and competitiveness to keep feet versus hard hits and gain yards after contact. Has excellent vision and instincts. Consistently finds holes, space in traffic. Can make smooth cuts in traffic. Can’t make quick jump cut, but has better-than-expected quickness through the hole and straight-line playing speed. Can lower a shoulder to deliver a blow, knock opponent backward and break tackles. Has good hands as a receiver. Is productive after the catch; has good instincts and ability to follow blockers. When focused on technique in pass blocking, can sink hips and block with good leverage. Can hold ground against pass rusher and tie up and eliminate opponent.
Weaknesses: Is a tailback with fullback body. Has natural instincts and vision, but lacks quickness and cutting ability to explode through holes. Lacks consistent good leverage when running. Has a bad habit of running upright. Takes too many hard hits. Does not pick his feet up well in traffic. Too often gets tripped by low, grab tackles. Lacks explosive ability to get through holes. Won’t be able to make long scoring runs. Carries ball loosely and away from his body, leading to fumbles. Has little experience as a lead blocker; must improve leverage. Must improve pass-blocking technique and aggressiveness.
Bottom line: Unga was dismissed from BYU for violating team/school rules, so entered the draft instead of playing his senior season. Unga likely would have been a fifth-round pick in the 2011 draft, but players tend to slide in the supplemental draft. He likely will go in the sixth or seventh round. In a season or two he should become a solid starting fullback who also contributes as a short yardage runner. To do so he must improve as a blocker.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Harvey Unga, a former BYU running back who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Is big, well built with the playing strength, balance and competitiveness to keep feet versus hard hits and gain yards after contact. Has excellent vision and instincts. Consistently finds holes, space in traffic. Can make smooth cuts in traffic. Can’t make quick jump cut, but has better-than-expected quickness through the hole and straight-line playing speed. Can lower a shoulder to deliver a blow, knock opponent backward and break tackles. Has good hands as a receiver. Is productive after the catch; has good instincts and ability to follow blockers. When focused on technique in pass blocking, can sink hips and block with good leverage. Can hold ground against pass rusher and tie up and eliminate opponent.
Weaknesses: Is a tailback with fullback body. Has natural instincts and vision, but lacks quickness and cutting ability to explode through holes. Lacks consistent good leverage when running. Has a bad habit of running upright. Takes too many hard hits. Does not pick his feet up well in traffic. Too often gets tripped by low, grab tackles. Lacks explosive ability to get through holes. Won’t be able to make long scoring runs. Carries ball loosely and away from his body, leading to fumbles. Has little experience as a lead blocker; must improve leverage. Must improve pass-blocking technique and aggressiveness.
Bottom line: Unga was dismissed from BYU for violating team/school rules, so entered the draft instead of playing his senior season. Unga likely would have been a fifth-round pick in the 2011 draft, but players tend to slide in the supplemental draft. He likely will go in the sixth or seventh round. In a season or two he should become a solid starting fullback who also contributes as a short yardage runner. To do so he must improve as a blocker.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Emokpae Vanness, a former wide receiver from Truman State in Missouri who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Has Good size with a thick build. Has quick feet, strong, physical run after catch ability. Can be a strong perimeter blocker.
Weaknesses: Has marginal playing speed, separation quickness, burst and acceleration. Has average initial quickness in release. Runs sloppy routes. Tends to be a cradle catcher; waits on the ball. Often jumps to catch when it is unnecessary. Has marginal overall elusiveness in run after catch. Lacks skills as a punt or kick returner. Is an inconsistent blocker.
Bottom line: Emokpae was a three-year starter in a spread offense. He is built more like a running back than a wide receiver. He is an adequate free-agent signing for a team with a need, but might not get the chance to play.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Emokpae Vanness, a former wide receiver from Truman State in Missouri who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Strengths: Has Good size with a thick build. Has quick feet, strong, physical run after catch ability. Can be a strong perimeter blocker.
Weaknesses: Has marginal playing speed, separation quickness, burst and acceleration. Has average initial quickness in release. Runs sloppy routes. Tends to be a cradle catcher; waits on the ball. Often jumps to catch when it is unnecessary. Has marginal overall elusiveness in run after catch. Lacks skills as a punt or kick returner. Is an inconsistent blocker.
Bottom line: Emokpae was a three-year starter in a spread offense. He is built more like a running back than a wide receiver. He is an adequate free-agent signing for a team with a need, but might not get the chance to play.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Josh Price-Brent, a former Illinois defensive tackle who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Athletic ability: Has a wide, thick frame with good arm length. Is a good overall athlete with good initial quickness and explosion from his stance. Has good agility on the move, but struggles to play with good lower-body flex. Too often played straight legged, up on toes. Appears to get lazy; loses stamina at times. Has ability to make perimeter plays when unblocked, but does not show consistent great lateral range.
Play against the run: Is strong, powerful run defender at point of attack, despite inconsistent pad level. Has strong hands and excellent upper-body strength to hold the line of scrimmage against a single blocker. Has the strength, quickness and power to split double-team blocks to tackle ball carrier. Can play with high intensity, but at times appears to get lazy, tired and sloppy with his technique. Can avoid cut blocks before joining backside pursuit. He wants to stand up and wrestle.
Initial quickness: Shows good initial quickness and explosiveness from stance. Pursuit/tackling: Is more of a power player than a speed player. Gives strong effort to finish. Is a strong, physical tackler.
Pass rush ability: Shows ability to use strength and power to push pocket. Has inconsistent finish effort, average lateral quickness, limited long speed to be highly productive. Is limited by inability to play with good leverage; has potential to improve. Shows excellent strength and power to collapse pocket as interior pass rusher. Mostly a bull rusher; flashes club-and-rip move. Can force QB from pocket, but lacks elite pass-rush ability. Provides consistent push.
Run/pass recognition: Is a smart, aware in all situations. Is best suited, most productive as short-area run defender; can provide push up the middle. Is quick to protect legs against cut blocks. Shows quick reaction to screen passes.
Bottom line: Price-Brent is a three-year junior and two-year starter at right defensive tackle. He should be considered for nose tackle and deserves third-round consideration. He should be an immediate rotational player who could develop into a starter in his second season. He is a better prospect than either Tim Anderson [third round, Bills] or former Barry Cofield, [fourth round, Giants].
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
A scout’s breakdown of Josh Price-Brent, a former Illinois defensive tackle who is eligible for the 2010 supplemental draft:
Athletic ability: Has a wide, thick frame with good arm length. Is a good overall athlete with good initial quickness and explosion from his stance. Has good agility on the move, but struggles to play with good lower-body flex. Too often played straight legged, up on toes. Appears to get lazy; loses stamina at times. Has ability to make perimeter plays when unblocked, but does not show consistent great lateral range.
Play against the run: Is strong, powerful run defender at point of attack, despite inconsistent pad level. Has strong hands and excellent upper-body strength to hold the line of scrimmage against a single blocker. Has the strength, quickness and power to split double-team blocks to tackle ball carrier. Can play with high intensity, but at times appears to get lazy, tired and sloppy with his technique. Can avoid cut blocks before joining backside pursuit. He wants to stand up and wrestle.
Initial quickness: Shows good initial quickness and explosiveness from stance. Pursuit/tackling: Is more of a power player than a speed player. Gives strong effort to finish. Is a strong, physical tackler.
Pass rush ability: Shows ability to use strength and power to push pocket. Has inconsistent finish effort, average lateral quickness, limited long speed to be highly productive. Is limited by inability to play with good leverage; has potential to improve. Shows excellent strength and power to collapse pocket as interior pass rusher. Mostly a bull rusher; flashes club-and-rip move. Can force QB from pocket, but lacks elite pass-rush ability. Provides consistent push.
Run/pass recognition: Is a smart, aware in all situations. Is best suited, most productive as short-area run defender; can provide push up the middle. Is quick to protect legs against cut blocks. Shows quick reaction to screen passes.
Bottom line: Price-Brent is a three-year junior and two-year starter at right defensive tackle. He should be considered for nose tackle and deserves third-round consideration. He should be an immediate rotational player who could develop into a starter in his second season. He is a better prospect than either Tim Anderson [third round, Bills] or former Barry Cofield, [fourth round, Giants].
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
