Every four years, Americans become enthralled with sports we routinely ignore during the two-week respite from reality known as the Olympics. But as the Winter and Summer Games continuously expand to include niche sports with cult followings at best, the ongoing omission of the greatest sport on the planet becomes more glaring.
Football. American football. The real football.
The Olympics won’t be complete until the roster of events includes football. More importantly, football won’t be able to completely saturate the world’s consciousness until the Olympics embrace it.
As crazy as it sounds (my editor used that same phrase when green-lighting this column), football isn’t as far away from becoming an Olympic sport as the casual observer might think. Reached for comment regarding the league’s position on the matter, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello shared with me the comments of Tommy Wiking, president of the International Federation of American Football.
"One of the key objectives of IFAF is to achieve International Olympic Committee recognition and we plan to make a formal application to the IOC in 2011," Wiking said recently at Le Deux Magots in Paris.
"IOC recognition would be the first step towards proposing American football as an Olympic participation sport, but more immediately would benefit the more than 50 countries that are members of IFAF. Such recognition would open doors to funding, provide a route into many school curriculums and would further raise the profile of our sport internationally, which in turn would lead to growth."
The kicker? (Pun intended, weak as it may be.) Sports that want to be added to the Olympic program must propose both male and female participation. (This does not apply to established Olympic sports like boxing.) For American football to gain IOC recognition, it has to demonstrate that it’s heading in the right direction regarding female participation. "IFAF has already increased the female presence within the game by mandating that women become more involved at board and committee level and by initiating the IFAF Women’s World Championship that will be played in Sweden this summer," Wiking said.
There’s another hurdle. To gain recognition, the sport must be played on every continent. Currently, American football has not yet infiltrated Africa. But efforts are being made to address that issue and all other potential obstacles, with the long-term goal being acceptance of American football as an Olympic sport.
The expanded presence of the NFL in other countries can only help the efforts to push American football to a level that makes it an attractive option for the Summer Games. Actual inclusion of football in the Olympics could be the tipping point toward widespread acceptance of football on a global basis.
To help guard against the inevitable, as the Nard Dog would put it, "Cornell-Hofstra slaughter" of every team that faces the USA, NFL players shouldn’t be loaned to the Olympic effort — at least not until other countries could stay within 100 points of the best American football players in the world. At some point, however, introduction of a football "Dream Team" could provide the same catalyst for international growth of the sport as the original "Dream Team" did for basketball in 1992.
Other practical challenges remain. Currently, football players play one game per week; how could a full tournament be squeezed into only 14 days? But much of the action would likely be deferred to qualification rounds, with perhaps only the final eight teams heading to the Olympics, for a maximum output of three games in two weeks.
These and other issues could be resolved if/when American football makes it into the Olympics, where it belongs.
If the NFL is serious about making American football a truly global phenomenon, the 100-year plan surely includes the Olympics. And if the Olympics hope to continue to be regarded as a complete athletic competition, its 100-year plan surely includes American football, too.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
Every four years, Americans become enthralled with sports we routinely ignore during the two-week respite from reality known as the Olympics. But as the Winter and Summer Games continuously expand to include niche sports with cult followings at best, the ongoing omission of the greatest sport on the planet becomes more glaring.
Football. American football. The real football.
The Olympics won’t be complete until the roster of events includes football. More importantly, football won’t be able to completely saturate the world’s consciousness until the Olympics embrace it.
As crazy as it sounds (my editor used that same phrase when green-lighting this column), football isn’t as far away from becoming an Olympic sport as the casual observer might think. Reached for comment regarding the league’s position on the matter, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello shared with me the comments of Tommy Wiking, president of the International Federation of American Football.
"One of the key objectives of IFAF is to achieve International Olympic Committee recognition and we plan to make a formal application to the IOC in 2011," Wiking said recently at Le Deux Magots in Paris.
"IOC recognition would be the first step towards proposing American football as an Olympic participation sport, but more immediately would benefit the more than 50 countries that are members of IFAF. Such recognition would open doors to funding, provide a route into many school curriculums and would further raise the profile of our sport internationally, which in turn would lead to growth."
The kicker? (Pun intended, weak as it may be.) Sports that want to be added to the Olympic program must propose both male and female participation. (This does not apply to established Olympic sports like boxing.) For American football to gain IOC recognition, it has to demonstrate that it’s heading in the right direction regarding female participation. "IFAF has already increased the female presence within the game by mandating that women become more involved at board and committee level and by initiating the IFAF Women’s World Championship that will be played in Sweden this summer," Wiking said.
There’s another hurdle. To gain recognition, the sport must be played on every continent. Currently, American football has not yet infiltrated Africa. But efforts are being made to address that issue and all other potential obstacles, with the long-term goal being acceptance of American football as an Olympic sport.
The expanded presence of the NFL in other countries can only help the efforts to push American football to a level that makes it an attractive option for the Summer Games. Actual inclusion of football in the Olympics could be the tipping point toward widespread acceptance of football on a global basis.
To help guard against the inevitable, as the Nard Dog would put it, "Cornell-Hofstra slaughter" of every team that faces the USA, NFL players shouldn’t be loaned to the Olympic effort — at least not until other countries could stay within 100 points of the best American football players in the world. At some point, however, introduction of a football "Dream Team" could provide the same catalyst for international growth of the sport as the original "Dream Team" did for basketball in 1992.
Other practical challenges remain. Currently, football players play one game per week; how could a full tournament be squeezed into only 14 days? But much of the action would likely be deferred to qualification rounds, with perhaps only the final eight teams heading to the Olympics, for a maximum output of three games in two weeks.
These and other issues could be resolved if/when American football makes it into the Olympics, where it belongs.
If the NFL is serious about making American football a truly global phenomenon, the 100-year plan surely includes the Olympics. And if the Olympics hope to continue to be regarded as a complete athletic competition, its 100-year plan surely includes American football, too.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
The Braves hope to reclaim the NL East title in manager Bobby Cox’s final season.
After a run of 14 consecutive division titles, Bobby Cox’s Braves haven’t been to the postseason since 2005. Atlanta would like nothing more than to make another October run in what will be Cox’s final season. The Braves won 86 games in 2009 and finished with the majors’ sixth-best run differential (+94) but fell six games short of the postseason. Pitching will lead their charge this season, though good health also will be vital.
Three questions
1. Is the pitching staff better?
With a surplus of starting pitchers, the Braves sold high on Javier Vazquez, who had a career year in 2009 (15-10, 2.87 ERA, 238 strikeouts). They also lost their top two relievers, trading Rafael Soriano (27 saves, 2.97 ERA) and allowing Mike Gonzalez (10 saves, 2.42 ERA) to leave via free agency. Signed to take their place: setup man Takashi Saito and closer Billy Wagner, both of whom finished the 2009 season with Boston.
Even without Vazquez, the Braves boast arguably the deepest and best rotation in the National League. Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrjens finished 2009 with sub-3.00 ERAs, and Tim Hudson will be a year and a half removed from Tommy John surgery. "Their starting rotation, one through five, is going to hold some teams down," Braves TV analyst Brian Jordan said. "The bullpen looks great. I really think they upgraded the bullpen."
2. Can Troy Glaus stay healthy?
The Braves hope a move from third base to first base, where Glaus has played only six games as a major leaguer (he has played thrice that many games at shortstop), will reduce the wear and tear on his shoulder. Because of shoulder surgery, Glaus didn’t play until Sept. 2 last season and hit just .172 with no homers in 32 plate appearances. However, he hit 27 homers in 2008 and is only four years removed from a 38-homer season.
Braves first basemen hit just 19 homers last season — tied for 22nd in the majors — and 12 of those came from late-season acquisition Adam LaRoche. They finished tied for 24th with 86 RBIs, with LaRoche accounting for 40 of those. A healthy and productive Glaus would go a long way toward the Braves’ reaching their goal of more run production.
3. Will Jason Heyward break camp with the team?
As promising as the 20-year-old prospect is and as badly as the Braves need offense, it is important to note that Heyward has played in just 50 games above the Class A level and just three games at the Class AAA level. With Nate McLouth, Matt Diaz and Melky Cabrera as starting options, there is no need to rush Heyward.
Still, a strong spring by Heyward could make it impossible for the Braves to turn to anyone else as their starting right fielder. Heyward can hit for average (.318 in the minors) and power (17 homers last season), can run (26 steals over three seasons) and throw (12 outfield assists last season) and has a career .391 on-base percentage in the minors.
Atlanta’s formidable rotation includes Tommy Hanson, who is coming off a stellar rookie season.
Projected lineup
1. CF Nate McLouth: .208 average at Turner Field in ’09.
2. 2B Martin Prado: Hit .300-plus four of six months.
3. 3B Chipper Jones: Average dropped 100 points in ’09.
4. 1B Troy Glaus: .236 career average as cleanup hitter.
5. C Brian McCann: 57 of 94 RBIs came after break.
6. SS Yunel Escobar: Career highs in ’09: 14 HRs, 76 RBIs.
7. LF Matt Diaz: Hit .412 vs. lefthanders.
8. RF Melky Cabrera: Career-best 13 HRs in ’09.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Tim Hudson: 3.61 ERA in seven starts in ’09.
2. RHP Derek Lowe: 3.44 through June 9, 5.59 ERA after.
3. RHP Jair Jurrjens: 16th in MLB with .237 BAA.
4. RHP Tommy Hanson: 33 of 46 BBs were vs. lefthanders.
5. RHP Kenshin Kawakami: Seven home losses, despite 3.65 ERA.
Projected closer
LHP Billy Wagner: 26 K’s in 15 2/3 IP after return.
Grades
Offense: C. Atlanta was 17th in runs and OPS and 22nd in homers in 2009. And it didn’t acquire the big bat — either in free agency or in exchange for Vazquez — that many felt it needed. Glaus could provide the power the Braves desire, and a bounce-back season form Chipper Jones also would be welcome.
Pitching: A. The Braves finished third in the majors with a 3.57 ERA last season and could be even better if Wagner and Hudson are 100 percent. Hanson, 23, and Jurrjens, who just turned 24, have yet to approach their ceiling. Derek Lowe must bounce back after a poor second half.
Bench: B. Good-luck charm Eric Hinske, who has played in the past three World Series, provides some pop and versatility. Omar Infante, who started at six positions in 2009, posted a career-best .361 on-base percentage and .305 batting average. If Heyward starts, the bench would get a boost with the addition of Cabrera/Diaz.
Manager: A. The foundation of Cox’s great Braves teams was pitching, and he certainly has the arms to return to the postseason. Known as a player’s manager, Cox will extract every ounce of effort from his squad as he attempts to add another ring and reach 2,500 career wins (he is 87 short).
Sporting News prediction: Atlanta should close the gap on the Phillies in the NL East, but its main focus will be on a hotly-contested race for the NL wild card.
Coming Thursday: Mets preview.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
The Braves hope to reclaim the NL East title in manager Bobby Cox’s final season.
After a run of 14 consecutive division titles, Bobby Cox’s Braves haven’t been to the postseason since 2005. Atlanta would like nothing more than to make another October run in what will be Cox’s final season. The Braves won 86 games in 2009 and finished with the majors’ sixth-best run differential (+94) but fell six games short of the postseason. Pitching will lead their charge this season, though good health also will be vital.
Three questions
1. Is the pitching staff better?
With a surplus of starting pitchers, the Braves sold high on Javier Vazquez, who had a career year in 2009 (15-10, 2.87 ERA, 238 strikeouts). They also lost their top two relievers, trading Rafael Soriano (27 saves, 2.97 ERA) and allowing Mike Gonzalez (10 saves, 2.42 ERA) to leave via free agency. Signed to take their place: setup man Takashi Saito and closer Billy Wagner, both of whom finished the 2009 season with Boston.
Even without Vazquez, the Braves boast arguably the deepest and best rotation in the National League. Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrjens finished 2009 with sub-3.00 ERAs, and Tim Hudson will be a year and a half removed from Tommy John surgery. "Their starting rotation, one through five, is going to hold some teams down," Braves TV analyst Brian Jordan said. "The bullpen looks great. I really think they upgraded the bullpen."
2. Can Troy Glaus stay healthy?
The Braves hope a move from third base to first base, where Glaus has played only six games as a major leaguer (he has played thrice that many games at shortstop), will reduce the wear and tear on his shoulder. Because of shoulder surgery, Glaus didn’t play until Sept. 2 last season and hit just .172 with no homers in 32 plate appearances. However, he hit 27 homers in 2008 and is only four years removed from a 38-homer season.
Braves first basemen hit just 19 homers last season — tied for 22nd in the majors — and 12 of those came from late-season acquisition Adam LaRoche. They finished tied for 24th with 86 RBIs, with LaRoche accounting for 40 of those. A healthy and productive Glaus would go a long way toward the Braves’ reaching their goal of more run production.
3. Will Jason Heyward break camp with the team?
As promising as the 20-year-old prospect is and as badly as the Braves need offense, it is important to note that Heyward has played in just 50 games above the Class A level and just three games at the Class AAA level. With Nate McLouth, Matt Diaz and Melky Cabrera as starting options, there is no need to rush Heyward.
Still, a strong spring by Heyward could make it impossible for the Braves to turn to anyone else as their starting right fielder. Heyward can hit for average (.318 in the minors) and power (17 homers last season), can run (26 steals over three seasons) and throw (12 outfield assists last season) and has a career .391 on-base percentage in the minors.
Atlanta’s formidable rotation includes Tommy Hanson, who is coming off a stellar rookie season.
Projected lineup
1. CF Nate McLouth: .208 average at Turner Field in ’09.
2. 2B Martin Prado: Hit .300-plus four of six months.
3. 3B Chipper Jones: Average dropped 100 points in ’09.
4. 1B Troy Glaus: .236 career average as cleanup hitter.
5. C Brian McCann: 57 of 94 RBIs came after break.
6. SS Yunel Escobar: Career highs in ’09: 14 HRs, 76 RBIs.
7. LF Matt Diaz: Hit .412 vs. lefthanders.
8. RF Melky Cabrera: Career-best 13 HRs in ’09.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Tim Hudson: 3.61 ERA in seven starts in ’09.
2. RHP Derek Lowe: 3.44 through June 9, 5.59 ERA after.
3. RHP Jair Jurrjens: 16th in MLB with .237 BAA.
4. RHP Tommy Hanson: 33 of 46 BBs were vs. lefthanders.
5. RHP Kenshin Kawakami: Seven home losses, despite 3.65 ERA.
Projected closer
LHP Billy Wagner: 26 K’s in 15 2/3 IP after return.
Grades
Offense: C. Atlanta was 17th in runs and OPS and 22nd in homers in 2009. And it didn’t acquire the big bat — either in free agency or in exchange for Vazquez — that many felt it needed. Glaus could provide the power the Braves desire, and a bounce-back season form Chipper Jones also would be welcome.
Pitching: A. The Braves finished third in the majors with a 3.57 ERA last season and could be even better if Wagner and Hudson are 100 percent. Hanson, 23, and Jurrjens, who just turned 24, have yet to approach their ceiling. Derek Lowe must bounce back after a poor second half.
Bench: B. Good-luck charm Eric Hinske, who has played in the past three World Series, provides some pop and versatility. Omar Infante, who started at six positions in 2009, posted a career-best .361 on-base percentage and .305 batting average. If Heyward starts, the bench would get a boost with the addition of Cabrera/Diaz.
Manager: A. The foundation of Cox’s great Braves teams was pitching, and he certainly has the arms to return to the postseason. Known as a player’s manager, Cox will extract every ounce of effort from his squad as he attempts to add another ring and reach 2,500 career wins (he is 87 short).
Sporting News prediction: Atlanta should close the gap on the Phillies in the NL East, but its main focus will be on a hotly-contested race for the NL wild card.
Coming Thursday: Mets preview.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
An NL scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the division’s biggest questions:
Which Met is more likely to bounce back after a disappointing 2009: David Wright or Oliver Perez?
Scout says: "Wright is more likely to bounce back. Wright has a good compact swing with strong, quick hands. (He) tried to do too much last season with several of their key guys on the disabled list, and he was expanding the strike zone. Perez has a high-maintenance delivery; he can get out of sync fast and continues to be off and on with command of his pitches."
Who’s the ace of the division: Roy Halladay, Johan Santana or Josh Johnson?
Scout says: "The ace of the division is Roy Halladay. He had another fantastic season for the Jays (in 2009), including a career-high 208 strikeouts. He’s escaped the AL East, but he landed in a more hitterfriendly home park. I still expect Cy Young-caliber performances from him, and his bids for individual and team hardware will be stronger as he’ll have an excellent chance at winning 20-plus games with a better team behind him in Philadelphia."
Which Cole Hamels will show up this season?
Scout says: "Cole Hamels will be much better than he was in 2009, though it will be very hard to match his 2008 season. He began last year with some arm soreness, and his ERA went from 3.09 in 2008 to 4.32 in 2009. He needs to revive his curveball to get back to his 2008 form."
This story first appeared in the Feb. 15, 2010, edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
An NL scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the division’s biggest questions:
Which Met is more likely to bounce back after a disappointing 2009: David Wright or Oliver Perez?
Scout says: "Wright is more likely to bounce back. Wright has a good compact swing with strong, quick hands. (He) tried to do too much last season with several of their key guys on the disabled list, and he was expanding the strike zone. Perez has a high-maintenance delivery; he can get out of sync fast and continues to be off and on with command of his pitches."
Who’s the ace of the division: Roy Halladay, Johan Santana or Josh Johnson?
Scout says: "The ace of the division is Roy Halladay. He had another fantastic season for the Jays (in 2009), including a career-high 208 strikeouts. He’s escaped the AL East, but he landed in a more hitterfriendly home park. I still expect Cy Young-caliber performances from him, and his bids for individual and team hardware will be stronger as he’ll have an excellent chance at winning 20-plus games with a better team behind him in Philadelphia."
Which Cole Hamels will show up this season?
Scout says: "Cole Hamels will be much better than he was in 2009, though it will be very hard to match his 2008 season. He began last year with some arm soreness, and his ERA went from 3.09 in 2008 to 4.32 in 2009. He needs to revive his curveball to get back to his 2008 form."
This story first appeared in the Feb. 15, 2010, edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
All of the 329 players invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis have questions they need to answer. Some have bigger questions than others.
These five players will be among those who undergo the most scrutiny by NFL general managers, coaches and scouts during interviews and drills in Indy.
As Ricky Ricardo would say, they have some ‘splainin’ to do.
LeGarrette Blount will need to answer to prospective employers at the Combine.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon
After being suspended indefinitely last February by former Oregon coach Mike Bellotti for "failure to fulfill team obligations," Blount was reinstated by new coach Chip Kelly before the 2009 season. Then, after the Ducks’ season-opening loss, Blount punched a Boise State player, confronted fans and was suspended again.
Blount rejoined the team late in the season but played in only two more games — the Civil War contest against Oregon State and the Rose Bowl against Ohio State. He finished the ’09 season with only 22 carries for 82 yards and two touchdowns. Not only did Blount force scouts to dig into the past to evaluate his ability — they had to go back to tape from the ’08 season — but he raised a major red flag with his physical and emotional outburst in Boise.
"I think that is a concern," an AFC college scouting director said. "It’s one thing to just snap and throw a punch. That happens in the NFL; you see it. It’s another thing to absolutely go off the handle and start getting into it with the crowd. Because of that moment, the doubt is going to be on him for a long, long time. Everybody is going to be waiting for the shoe to drop again."
Jevan Snead, QB, Mississippi
The 2009 NFL draft had barely ended when some pundits started putting out mock drafts for ’10. Back then, Snead was considered a top 10 pick based largely, perhaps, on one good half’s performance against Florida. Since then, Snead’s stock has fallen.
After throwing 26 touchdown passes, getting intercepted only 13 times and finishing with a 145.50 passer rating in ’08, Snead’s corresponding numbers were 20, 20 and 124.82 this past season. Snead is big and has a strong arm, but many talent evaluators question his accuracy and decision making.
"This is a guy who’s got a lot riding (on his Combine performance)," the AFC college scouting director said. "He’s going to have to show accuracy (in the passing drills). He’s going to have to show a mental aptitude for the game for people to feel comfortable with him."
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
The defensive MVP of the national championship game a year ago, Dunlap has the size, athleticism and long arms you want in a defensive end. But scouts wonder if he has the passion and competitiveness to be a consistent playmaker. It seemed like Dunlap would make two or three outstanding plays every game, then would disappear the rest of the time.
"There are teams thinking he’s almost a Vernon Gholston bust waiting to happen," the War Room’s Russ Lande said, referring to the Jets’ first-round pick in ’08 who thus far has been a failure in the NFL.
Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
Hardy has first-round talent and seventh-round attitude. During his four-year career, he had 39 tackles for losses and 26 1/2 sacks, including a Southeastern Conference-leading 10 sacks in ’07. But some scouts question his passion for the game. He often was late for practice, and he didn’t perform consistently.
"His work ethic is terrible," another AFC college scouting director said. "He’s a guy who likes to play on Saturday but doesn’t like to do the stuff in between."
Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
After catching 57 passes for 792 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, LaFell skipped the Senior Bowl — the most prestigious college all-star game‹deciding it wasn’t in his best interests to participate. That puzzled many scouts, who already were skeptical about LaFell’s speed.
"A lot of teams view him as more of a second- or third-round type guy despite the fact he was a first-rounder when the year began," Lande said. "Some people wonder since he didn’t come to the Senior Bowl if he’s going to pull a ‘no workout’ at the Combine and just leave it all on his pro day. I think it would be terrifyingly risky for a guy who can’t run."
This story appears in Feb. 24’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
All of the 329 players invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis have questions they need to answer. Some have bigger questions than others.
These five players will be among those who undergo the most scrutiny by NFL general managers, coaches and scouts during interviews and drills in Indy.
As Ricky Ricardo would say, they have some ‘splainin’ to do.
LeGarrette Blount will need to answer to prospective employers at the Combine.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon
After being suspended indefinitely last February by former Oregon coach Mike Bellotti for "failure to fulfill team obligations," Blount was reinstated by new coach Chip Kelly before the 2009 season. Then, after the Ducks’ season-opening loss, Blount punched a Boise State player, confronted fans and was suspended again.
Blount rejoined the team late in the season but played in only two more games — the Civil War contest against Oregon State and the Rose Bowl against Ohio State. He finished the ’09 season with only 22 carries for 82 yards and two touchdowns. Not only did Blount force scouts to dig into the past to evaluate his ability — they had to go back to tape from the ’08 season — but he raised a major red flag with his physical and emotional outburst in Boise.
"I think that is a concern," an AFC college scouting director said. "It’s one thing to just snap and throw a punch. That happens in the NFL; you see it. It’s another thing to absolutely go off the handle and start getting into it with the crowd. Because of that moment, the doubt is going to be on him for a long, long time. Everybody is going to be waiting for the shoe to drop again."
Jevan Snead, QB, Mississippi
The 2009 NFL draft had barely ended when some pundits started putting out mock drafts for ’10. Back then, Snead was considered a top 10 pick based largely, perhaps, on one good half’s performance against Florida. Since then, Snead’s stock has fallen.
After throwing 26 touchdown passes, getting intercepted only 13 times and finishing with a 145.50 passer rating in ’08, Snead’s corresponding numbers were 20, 20 and 124.82 this past season. Snead is big and has a strong arm, but many talent evaluators question his accuracy and decision making.
"This is a guy who’s got a lot riding (on his Combine performance)," the AFC college scouting director said. "He’s going to have to show accuracy (in the passing drills). He’s going to have to show a mental aptitude for the game for people to feel comfortable with him."
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
The defensive MVP of the national championship game a year ago, Dunlap has the size, athleticism and long arms you want in a defensive end. But scouts wonder if he has the passion and competitiveness to be a consistent playmaker. It seemed like Dunlap would make two or three outstanding plays every game, then would disappear the rest of the time.
"There are teams thinking he’s almost a Vernon Gholston bust waiting to happen," the War Room’s Russ Lande said, referring to the Jets’ first-round pick in ’08 who thus far has been a failure in the NFL.
Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
Hardy has first-round talent and seventh-round attitude. During his four-year career, he had 39 tackles for losses and 26 1/2 sacks, including a Southeastern Conference-leading 10 sacks in ’07. But some scouts question his passion for the game. He often was late for practice, and he didn’t perform consistently.
"His work ethic is terrible," another AFC college scouting director said. "He’s a guy who likes to play on Saturday but doesn’t like to do the stuff in between."
Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
After catching 57 passes for 792 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, LaFell skipped the Senior Bowl — the most prestigious college all-star game‹deciding it wasn’t in his best interests to participate. That puzzled many scouts, who already were skeptical about LaFell’s speed.
"A lot of teams view him as more of a second- or third-round type guy despite the fact he was a first-rounder when the year began," Lande said. "Some people wonder since he didn’t come to the Senior Bowl if he’s going to pull a ‘no workout’ at the Combine and just leave it all on his pro day. I think it would be terrifyingly risky for a guy who can’t run."
This story appears in Feb. 24’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News Pro Football War Room
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect O’Brien Schofield:
A knee injury has slowed O’Brien Schofield in his journey to the NFL.
NFL position: OLB
Height: 6-2 1/8
Weight: 238
40 time: 4.82
Current projection: Fourth-round pick
Against inside runs: Plays with strong hands and is a good anchor at the point of attack. Struggles some against double-teams because of a lack of bulk. Quickly sheds one-on-one blocks along the line. Gets bounced around some within the box.
Against outside runs: Shows good instincts, pursuit angles and speed. Quickly sheds blocks in lateral pursuit and shows a definite burst to close. Is quick and explosive when in backside pursuit.
Blitz/coverage: An explosive pass rusher from a three-point or upright stance. Lacks experience dropping into coverage but has the athletic ability, speed and quickness to be effective in that area. As a pass rusher, can win with speed around the edge, a quick inside move at the snap or a strong rip/pull move. Also uses swim and spin moves at times but needs improvement. Is a quick, explosive player on stunts.
Run/pass recognition: Reads plays quickly. Shows excellent production against both the run and the pass.
Pursuit/tackling: Is an explosive athlete with outstanding range. Can really close to the ball on the move. Is a strong, consistent tackler. One of the few defenders who could pull down Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor by himself.
Bottom line: Schofield has an ideal body for an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. He has good size, arm length and growth potential. He reminds us of the Packers’ Clay Matthews and the Steelers’ LaMarr Woodley, only Schofield is a better pass rusher. He has second-round talent but is coming off a torn ACL injury at the Senior Bowl, so he likely will fall into the middle rounds. If he is able to regain his pre-injury form, he could prove to be quite a bargain.
For more than 600 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated Mock Draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News Pro Football War Room
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect O’Brien Schofield:
A knee injury has slowed O’Brien Schofield in his journey to the NFL.
NFL position: OLB
Height: 6-2 1/8
Weight: 238
40 time: 4.82
Current projection: Fourth-round pick
Against inside runs: Plays with strong hands and is a good anchor at the point of attack. Struggles some against double-teams because of a lack of bulk. Quickly sheds one-on-one blocks along the line. Gets bounced around some within the box.
Against outside runs: Shows good instincts, pursuit angles and speed. Quickly sheds blocks in lateral pursuit and shows a definite burst to close. Is quick and explosive when in backside pursuit.
Blitz/coverage: An explosive pass rusher from a three-point or upright stance. Lacks experience dropping into coverage but has the athletic ability, speed and quickness to be effective in that area. As a pass rusher, can win with speed around the edge, a quick inside move at the snap or a strong rip/pull move. Also uses swim and spin moves at times but needs improvement. Is a quick, explosive player on stunts.
Run/pass recognition: Reads plays quickly. Shows excellent production against both the run and the pass.
Pursuit/tackling: Is an explosive athlete with outstanding range. Can really close to the ball on the move. Is a strong, consistent tackler. One of the few defenders who could pull down Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor by himself.
Bottom line: Schofield has an ideal body for an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. He has good size, arm length and growth potential. He reminds us of the Packers’ Clay Matthews and the Steelers’ LaMarr Woodley, only Schofield is a better pass rusher. He has second-round talent but is coming off a torn ACL injury at the Senior Bowl, so he likely will fall into the middle rounds. If he is able to regain his pre-injury form, he could prove to be quite a bargain.
For more than 600 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated Mock Draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
This is the third in a series of position-by-position analyses of the best players who may be available on the NFL’s open market when free agency opens on March 5:
Safeties first
What do Nick Collins, Antoine Bethea and O.J. Atogwe have in common? They all stand 5-11, they’re all playmakers in their primes, and unfortunately for teams hungry for such safeties, they all will be restricted free agents.
The top prize is Collins, who has 13 interceptions over the past two seasons. Considering his talent and Green Bay’s secondary concerns, the team should consider locking him up beyond 2010.
Bethea, whose strong tackling helped the Colts overcome the loss of Bob Sanders, will be back in Indianapolis.
The most "available" of this trio is Atogwe, one of the few bright spots on the Rams’ defense. The team desperately needs draft help and may move him for the right offer of picks.
The corner market
Like the Packers with Collins, it would be wise for the Panthers to give similarly restricted cornerback Richard Marshall a long-term deal. Former Jaguars and Rams wide receiver Torry Holt, a seven-time Pro Bowler, thinks Marshall has All-Pro potential. "He has it all," Holt said. "He’s a very physical, strong guy who likes contact."
Holt compares Marshall, who had 88 tackles and four interceptions last season, to a bigger, faster version of Antoine Winfield who can both cover and play the run.
Unrestricted free agent cornerback Leigh Bodden is capable of huge games.
While Marshall has the most upside and is the least available, the Patriots’ Leigh Bodden and the Texans’ Dunta Robinson are both unrestricted.
Bodden, with his size (6-1, 193) and long arms, is attractive for a team that plays a lot of zone and off coverage. He can explode for big games. During his first season in New England, three of his five interceptions came in one game, against the Jets’ Mark Sanchez.
Robinson’s assets are his speed and quickness, but his playmaking ability was limited in Houston, where he was consistently matched up with the opponent’s best receiver. He can also move inside to play nickel.
"If there’s a weakness, it’s that he’s susceptible to double moves against receivers with a suddenness to their routes," Holt said.
Restricted Redskin Carlos Rogers is a bit like Robinson: a tantalizing talent without the numbers to back it up.
"He’s another guy who can solidify a secondary," Holt said. "I would like to see his physical abilities translate to more plays. His 24 passes defensed (in 2008) shows he can get to the ball; he just need to take better advantage."
Still sharp
If there’s proof that a smart one-year deal for an accomplished veteran can pay off, Darren Sharper is it. At 34, playing in aggressive scheme that was a perfect fit for his ballhawking style, his best season was a key part of the Saints’ Super Bowl success.
Sharper was a steal at $1.7 million, and with New Orleans deciding not to tag him as its franchise player, other contenders looking for an instant impact have a shot at getting him, especially if he gets signed past ’10.
Same division, same skills
Teams may not be able to land a top-flight playmaking safety on the open market, but if they look to the AFC North, they can find two strong 3-4 run supporters in the Steelers’ Ryan Clark and the Ravens’ Dawan Landry. "They’re really very similar players," said an NFC team’s scout. "They are both solid tacklers who aren’t as good in coverage."
Clark is unrestricted, and although Landry is not, the Ravens may not tender him because of their potential depth at his position.
Value and versatility
Because the cover-2 requires cornerbacks to play so much zone coverage, those who play in that scheme need to have good lateral range and upfield instincts. The Colts’ Marlin Jackson fits that mold, making him a versatile option further down the list.
Teams who can look past his injury woes — he is coming off knee surgery — might be able to get two players in one.
"He is one of those corner/safety hybrids," Holt said. "If it’s not Indy, he could help a lot of teams."
The top 10 …
1. Nick Collins, S, Packers*
2. Antoine Bethea, S, Colts*
3. O.J. Atogwe, S, Rams*
4. Richard Marshall, CB, Panthers*
5. Darren Sharper, S, Saints (UFA)
6. Leigh Bodden, CB, Patriots (UFA)
7. Dunta Robinson, CB, Texans (UFA)
8. Roman Harper, S, Saints*
9. Ryan Clark, S, Steelers (UFA)
10. Dawan Landry, S, Ravens*
UFA=will become unrestricted free agent on March 5
*-will be restricted free agent with lack of CBA
… And one more to watch
Nate Clements, CB, 49ers: Clements hasn’t lived up to the eight-year, $80 million deal he signed three years ago, as his speed and durability have let him down. Coming off a broken bone in his right shoulder, he is an experienced cover man who might be better off at safety. If the 49ers are looking to get younger in the secondary, he might get released.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
This is the third in a series of position-by-position analyses of the best players who may be available on the NFL’s open market when free agency opens on March 5:
Safeties first
What do Nick Collins, Antoine Bethea and O.J. Atogwe have in common? They all stand 5-11, they’re all playmakers in their primes, and unfortunately for teams hungry for such safeties, they all will be restricted free agents.
The top prize is Collins, who has 13 interceptions over the past two seasons. Considering his talent and Green Bay’s secondary concerns, the team should consider locking him up beyond 2010.
Bethea, whose strong tackling helped the Colts overcome the loss of Bob Sanders, will be back in Indianapolis.
The most "available" of this trio is Atogwe, one of the few bright spots on the Rams’ defense. The team desperately needs draft help and may move him for the right offer of picks.
The corner market
Like the Packers with Collins, it would be wise for the Panthers to give similarly restricted cornerback Richard Marshall a long-term deal. Former Jaguars and Rams wide receiver Torry Holt, a seven-time Pro Bowler, thinks Marshall has All-Pro potential. "He has it all," Holt said. "He’s a very physical, strong guy who likes contact."
Holt compares Marshall, who had 88 tackles and four interceptions last season, to a bigger, faster version of Antoine Winfield who can both cover and play the run.
Unrestricted free agent cornerback Leigh Bodden is capable of huge games.
While Marshall has the most upside and is the least available, the Patriots’ Leigh Bodden and the Texans’ Dunta Robinson are both unrestricted.
Bodden, with his size (6-1, 193) and long arms, is attractive for a team that plays a lot of zone and off coverage. He can explode for big games. During his first season in New England, three of his five interceptions came in one game, against the Jets’ Mark Sanchez.
Robinson’s assets are his speed and quickness, but his playmaking ability was limited in Houston, where he was consistently matched up with the opponent’s best receiver. He can also move inside to play nickel.
"If there’s a weakness, it’s that he’s susceptible to double moves against receivers with a suddenness to their routes," Holt said.
Restricted Redskin Carlos Rogers is a bit like Robinson: a tantalizing talent without the numbers to back it up.
"He’s another guy who can solidify a secondary," Holt said. "I would like to see his physical abilities translate to more plays. His 24 passes defensed (in 2008) shows he can get to the ball; he just need to take better advantage."
Still sharp
If there’s proof that a smart one-year deal for an accomplished veteran can pay off, Darren Sharper is it. At 34, playing in aggressive scheme that was a perfect fit for his ballhawking style, his best season was a key part of the Saints’ Super Bowl success.
Sharper was a steal at $1.7 million, and with New Orleans deciding not to tag him as its franchise player, other contenders looking for an instant impact have a shot at getting him, especially if he gets signed past ’10.
Same division, same skills
Teams may not be able to land a top-flight playmaking safety on the open market, but if they look to the AFC North, they can find two strong 3-4 run supporters in the Steelers’ Ryan Clark and the Ravens’ Dawan Landry. "They’re really very similar players," said an NFC team’s scout. "They are both solid tacklers who aren’t as good in coverage."
Clark is unrestricted, and although Landry is not, the Ravens may not tender him because of their potential depth at his position.
Value and versatility
Because the cover-2 requires cornerbacks to play so much zone coverage, those who play in that scheme need to have good lateral range and upfield instincts. The Colts’ Marlin Jackson fits that mold, making him a versatile option further down the list.
Teams who can look past his injury woes — he is coming off knee surgery — might be able to get two players in one.
"He is one of those corner/safety hybrids," Holt said. "If it’s not Indy, he could help a lot of teams."
The top 10 …
1. Nick Collins, S, Packers*
2. Antoine Bethea, S, Colts*
3. O.J. Atogwe, S, Rams*
4. Richard Marshall, CB, Panthers*
5. Darren Sharper, S, Saints (UFA)
6. Leigh Bodden, CB, Patriots (UFA)
7. Dunta Robinson, CB, Texans (UFA)
8. Roman Harper, S, Saints*
9. Ryan Clark, S, Steelers (UFA)
10. Dawan Landry, S, Ravens*
UFA=will become unrestricted free agent on March 5
*-will be restricted free agent with lack of CBA
… And one more to watch
Nate Clements, CB, 49ers: Clements hasn’t lived up to the eight-year, $80 million deal he signed three years ago, as his speed and durability have let him down. Coming off a broken bone in his right shoulder, he is an experienced cover man who might be better off at safety. If the 49ers are looking to get younger in the secondary, he might get released.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
PHILADELPHIA — Brian Westbrook could break open a game from almost anywhere on the field.
Lined up in the slot, he could run a slant, beat a linebacker and take off with no one able to catch No. 36. His defining moment with the Philadelphia Eagles came on an 84-yard punt return that stunned the New York Giants in 2003.
Out of the backfield, he was a 1,000-yard rusher who always kept defenses guessing — and flailing.
But in his later years, it was injuries that defined Westbrook more than his dynamic offensive skills. His age, salary and lengthy list of beaten body parts led the Eagles to release him Tuesday and save the team $7.5 million due next year.
"I think we all know that Brian is one of the all-time great Philadelphia Eagles," coach Andy Reid said. "For what we’ve done here over the years, Brian has been just a huge part of building this program to the level that we’re at now. My heart will always be a Brian Westbrook fan as we go forward here."
A former All-Pro, the 5-foot-10 Westbrook led the league in yards from scrimmage in 2007 with 2,104. He rushed for 1,333 yards and accounted 12 touchdowns that season.
But he spent much of last season on the sidelines, missing eight games with a pair of concussions and an ankle injury. Westbrook had only two touchdowns in 2009.
Reid said he called Westbrook with the news Tuesday morning. Reid said Westbrook should still have an opportunity to play for another team. Reid said he thinks Westbrook still wants to play.
"I don’t know that for a fact, but I think he might want to do that," Reid said.
LeSean McCoy, who rushed for 637 yards with four touchdowns in 16 games as a rookie, will become Philadelphia’s No. 1 running back.
"That’s who’s going to take the ball from here," Reid said.
Westbrook’s season went south on Oct. 26 when his helmet collided with Washington linebacker London Fletcher’s right knee and he suffered a concussion. Westbrook missed the last five games after suffering his second concussion in three weeks against San Diego on Nov. 15. He was cleared to return for the postseason.
He has rushed for 5,995 yards in eight seasons in Philadelphia and caught 426 passes for 3,790 yards. The 30-year-old Westbrook has scored 68 touchdowns rushing, receiving and on punt returns.
"He had no weaknesses," Reid said. "There wasn’t any one thing that you could pick out that he was not good at; he was brilliant. There are just certain guys that are just football smart and he was one of those guys."
Westbrook, a third-round pick out of Villanova in the 2002 draft, is Philadelphia’s career leader in yards from scrimmage (9,785). He also ranks second in yards rushing (5,995) behind Wilbert Montgomery and third in receptions (426) behind Harold Carmichael and Pete Retzlaff.
He is third in team history behind Carmichael and Steve Van Buren in touchdowns and holds the franchise single-season record for most scrimmage yards in a season (2,104 in 2007) and most receptions in a season (90 in 2007).
He eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark 20 times (including playoffs) during his career, tying for second-most in club history.
"Brian Westbrook is one of the most electrifying players in the history of this franchise and is certainly also one of the most popular," Eagles chairman Jeffrey Lurie said. "He was personally one of the my favorite players to watch each and every Sunday, and his playmaking abilities, leadership and values will be missed."
Westbrook is the second high-profile running back to be released in two days following LaDainian Tomlinson being shown the door by the San Diego Chargers. Both Westbrook and Tomlinson turned 30 last summer and have been sidelined by injuries that kept them from performing at the level they displayed in their primes.
Westbrook’s signature moment came in 2003. The Eagles appeared headed to a 2-4 start on Oct. 19, when they trailed 10-7 late in the fourth quarter against the Giants. But Westbrook returned a punt 84 yards for the winning score with 1:16 left in one of the more memorable plays of the Reid era.
He never played 16 games because of a variety of injuries to his knees, ankles, ribs and triceps. He practiced sparingly, if at all, in his final seasons.
If Westbrook fails to sign with another team, Reid would welcome him back to the organization in an unspecified role.
"He, to me, is a Philadelphia Eagle and he’s the kind of people that you want in your organization," he said.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
PHILADELPHIA — Brian Westbrook could break open a game from almost anywhere on the field.
Lined up in the slot, he could run a slant, beat a linebacker and take off with no one able to catch No. 36. His defining moment with the Philadelphia Eagles came on an 84-yard punt return that stunned the New York Giants in 2003.
Out of the backfield, he was a 1,000-yard rusher who always kept defenses guessing — and flailing.
But in his later years, it was injuries that defined Westbrook more than his dynamic offensive skills. His age, salary and lengthy list of beaten body parts led the Eagles to release him Tuesday and save the team $7.5 million due next year.
"I think we all know that Brian is one of the all-time great Philadelphia Eagles," coach Andy Reid said. "For what we’ve done here over the years, Brian has been just a huge part of building this program to the level that we’re at now. My heart will always be a Brian Westbrook fan as we go forward here."
A former All-Pro, the 5-foot-10 Westbrook led the league in yards from scrimmage in 2007 with 2,104. He rushed for 1,333 yards and accounted 12 touchdowns that season.
But he spent much of last season on the sidelines, missing eight games with a pair of concussions and an ankle injury. Westbrook had only two touchdowns in 2009.
Reid said he called Westbrook with the news Tuesday morning. Reid said Westbrook should still have an opportunity to play for another team. Reid said he thinks Westbrook still wants to play.
"I don’t know that for a fact, but I think he might want to do that," Reid said.
LeSean McCoy, who rushed for 637 yards with four touchdowns in 16 games as a rookie, will become Philadelphia’s No. 1 running back.
"That’s who’s going to take the ball from here," Reid said.
Westbrook’s season went south on Oct. 26 when his helmet collided with Washington linebacker London Fletcher’s right knee and he suffered a concussion. Westbrook missed the last five games after suffering his second concussion in three weeks against San Diego on Nov. 15. He was cleared to return for the postseason.
He has rushed for 5,995 yards in eight seasons in Philadelphia and caught 426 passes for 3,790 yards. The 30-year-old Westbrook has scored 68 touchdowns rushing, receiving and on punt returns.
"He had no weaknesses," Reid said. "There wasn’t any one thing that you could pick out that he was not good at; he was brilliant. There are just certain guys that are just football smart and he was one of those guys."
Westbrook, a third-round pick out of Villanova in the 2002 draft, is Philadelphia’s career leader in yards from scrimmage (9,785). He also ranks second in yards rushing (5,995) behind Wilbert Montgomery and third in receptions (426) behind Harold Carmichael and Pete Retzlaff.
He is third in team history behind Carmichael and Steve Van Buren in touchdowns and holds the franchise single-season record for most scrimmage yards in a season (2,104 in 2007) and most receptions in a season (90 in 2007).
He eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark 20 times (including playoffs) during his career, tying for second-most in club history.
"Brian Westbrook is one of the most electrifying players in the history of this franchise and is certainly also one of the most popular," Eagles chairman Jeffrey Lurie said. "He was personally one of the my favorite players to watch each and every Sunday, and his playmaking abilities, leadership and values will be missed."
Westbrook is the second high-profile running back to be released in two days following LaDainian Tomlinson being shown the door by the San Diego Chargers. Both Westbrook and Tomlinson turned 30 last summer and have been sidelined by injuries that kept them from performing at the level they displayed in their primes.
Westbrook’s signature moment came in 2003. The Eagles appeared headed to a 2-4 start on Oct. 19, when they trailed 10-7 late in the fourth quarter against the Giants. But Westbrook returned a punt 84 yards for the winning score with 1:16 left in one of the more memorable plays of the Reid era.
He never played 16 games because of a variety of injuries to his knees, ankles, ribs and triceps. He practiced sparingly, if at all, in his final seasons.
If Westbrook fails to sign with another team, Reid would welcome him back to the organization in an unspecified role.
"He, to me, is a Philadelphia Eagle and he’s the kind of people that you want in your organization," he said.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hollywood: Isn’t there some kind of law against Boston heroes Ben Affleck and Matt Damon playing Yankees ? Make that wife-swapping Yankees Fritz Peterson and Mike Kekich. Here’s hoping the script-killing gods save us from "The Trade." Really, people can’t stomach the idea of sibling skaters, but they want to watch this?
MLB: Speaking of love (and war) and Yankees, there appears to be battery peace in spring training. Jorge Posada and A.J. Burnett are making nice after struggling so much last season that Joe Girardi had to split them up. "I enjoy A.J.," Posada said. "I get up for catching him. I love it. We never had any issues or problems. It happens in baseball, you don’t pitch great all the time." Says Burnett: "I never questioned Jorge and I never will. I questioned myself."
NBA: Joakim Noah proves it’s tough to dunk with plantar fasciitis. "I don’t think the foot is going to be 100 percent for the rest of the season," Noah tells the Chicago Tribune.
NASCAR: In the Jeremy Mayfield saga, the former Cup driver is now trying to get his case moved back to state court and force NASCAR to pay his attorney’s fees related to the venue issue. NASCAR wants to keep the case in the federal court’s hands.
English Premier League: A Tiger-esque episode involving soccer stars is hardly news in the U.K., but when a WAG cheats on her footballer hubby with a Dancing With The Stars star, well, that gets ink on both sides of the Atlantic. Cheryl Cole and Ashley (who plays for Chelsea) Cole are soon to be divorced, and Cheryl has been spotted with DWTS dancer Derek Hough.
Golf: If you haven’t reached the saturation point on Tiger’s tawdry tale yet, Radaronline reports that Elin said no to a family portrait shoot the day before Woods’ televised apology.
Hollywood: Isn’t there some kind of law against Boston heroes Ben Affleck and Matt Damon playing Yankees ? Make that wife-swapping Yankees Fritz Peterson and Mike Kekich. Here’s hoping the script-killing gods save us from "The Trade." Really, people can’t stomach the idea of sibling skaters, but they want to watch this?
MLB: Speaking of love (and war) and Yankees, there appears to be battery peace in spring training. Jorge Posada and A.J. Burnett are making nice after struggling so much last season that Joe Girardi had to split them up. "I enjoy A.J.," Posada said. "I get up for catching him. I love it. We never had any issues or problems. It happens in baseball, you don’t pitch great all the time." Says Burnett: "I never questioned Jorge and I never will. I questioned myself."
NBA: Joakim Noah proves it’s tough to dunk with plantar fasciitis. "I don’t think the foot is going to be 100 percent for the rest of the season," Noah tells the Chicago Tribune.
NASCAR: In the Jeremy Mayfield saga, the former Cup driver is now trying to get his case moved back to state court and force NASCAR to pay his attorney’s fees related to the venue issue. NASCAR wants to keep the case in the federal court’s hands.
English Premier League: A Tiger-esque episode involving soccer stars is hardly news in the U.K., but when a WAG cheats on her footballer hubby with a Dancing With The Stars star, well, that gets ink on both sides of the Atlantic. Cheryl Cole and Ashley (who plays for Chelsea) Cole are soon to be divorced, and Cheryl has been spotted with DWTS dancer Derek Hough.
Golf: If you haven’t reached the saturation point on Tiger’s tawdry tale yet, Radaronline reports that Elin said no to a family portrait shoot the day before Woods’ televised apology.
Before the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off Wednesday, Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts name 11 defensive players who can solidify or improve their draft stocks with strong performances in Indianapolis. On Monday, Lande identified offensive players who need to succeed at the Combine.
Carlos Dunlap has the athleticism to be great, but does he have the desire?
Dunlap has freakish size, strength, athleticism and long arms, but he is not nearly as productive as someone with his talent should be. When he keeps his knees bent, uses good technique and plays with intensity and aggressiveness, he can be dominant. But too often, Dunlap gets upright at the snap, fails to attack the blocker and plays without passion. When that happens, he does not impact the play. To ensure that he’s a first-round pick, Dunlap needs to convince teams in interviews that he can play with intensity more frequently.
McCoy wants to create a real debate about whether he or Ndamukong Suh is the top defensive tackle in the draft. McCoy has flashed the rare explosiveness and athleticism few NFL defensive tackles possess, and many consider him a better all-around athlete than Suh, but he is not as productive or consistent as Suh on film. To overtake Suh, McCoy needs to work out well at the Combine. He also needs to convince teams that his inconsistent technique and aggressiveness were the result of what he was asked to do at Oklahoma rather than the product of poor effort.
Williams has been flying up draft boards. Considered a third-round prospect before the Senior Bowl, a strong showing in Mobile has made Williams a possible first-round pick. However, with several quality defensive tackles nipping at his heels – including D’Anthony Smith, Jeff Owens and Geno Atkins – Williams needs to show in his workout that he is a good enough athlete to be an impact DT in the NFL. Specifically, he needs to demonstrate that he has the explosiveness that does not appear on film. If Williams does not distinguish himself from the other DTs this week, then he could fall into the second round.
Spikes and McClain are generally considered the top two inside linebacker prospects in this year’s draft, but evaluators have one concern about both: playing speed. We have seen on film, and have heard constantly from NFL scouts, that both players are good, not elite, athletes who play faster than their 40 times thanks to great instincts that get them going in the right direction quickly after the snap. However, in order to prove they’re worthy of being top-15 picks, both need to run and work out well enough to ease concerns about their lack of top-end speed. If either player runs the 40 in more than 4.9 seconds, he could end up being a second-round pick.
Teams have doubts about Rennie Curran’s size, but not his productivity at Georgia.
If a player’s draft value was based solely on his athleticism and production, then Curran would be a surefire first-round pick, because he is constantly flying around the field making impact plays. However, Curran’s lack of size is likely to keep him out of the first round, and he has to measure over 5-11 to remain even a second- or third-round pick. Additionally, as with any short linebacker, he needs to shine in his workout to prove he has the athleticism to be productive in the NFL.
Norwood is the ultimate tweener in this year’s draft. He was a highly productive college defensive end despite looking much more like a linebacker. To avoid a decline in his draft stock, he must demonstrate to NFL teams that he has the athleticism and size wanted for players at one of those positions. In other words, he needs to define himself as either a defensive end or a linebacker. While many have criticized Norwood’s play at the Senior Bowl, we were impressed with the athleticism he showed in pass coverage, and we thought he showed good instincts and awareness playing away from the line of scrimmage for someone who spent most of his college career as a lineman. If NFL teams decide Norwood should be a linebacker, then he must demonstrate in interviews that he has the intelligence to make the transition to the new position.
Many believe Cox could be a first-round pick because of his size, strength, athleticism, toughness and instincts. However, to be drafted that high, he needs to impress in interviews, allaying concerns about his character stemming from off-field issues. Cox needs to prove he was just an immature kid who made some mistakes, not someone who will constantly cause headaches for his NFL team.
Evaluators can’t seem to agree about Cook. Some see him as a top cornerback prospect. Others see him as a solid cornerback prospect who does not fit at safety. Still others feel he has the talent to convert to safety and be a star. To move up from his likely third-round spot, Cook must prove he has the top-end foot quickness and all-around athleticism not only to play corner, but also to play safety and sometimes cover slot receivers. Additionally, Cook must prove in interviews that he can handle the mental transition to safety. Don’t be surprised if there’s a lot of buzz about Cook immediately after the Combine, because he has significantly helped his own stock recently.
Mays needs an excellent week in Indy to reestablish himself as a definite first-round pick after a disappointing week at the Senior Bowl. No one questions Mays’ instincts, toughness, competitiveness and run-support skills. However, he struggled greatly in man-to-man coverage in Mobile, and he needs to show in workouts that he has the hips and all-around athleticism to handle deep pass coverage in the NFL. No one expects Mays to be a star in pass coverage; he just needs to demonstrate he can be solid in order to ease teams’ concerns about his ability to be a good starting safety. Additionally, Mays needs to do well in interviews to overcome concerns that he was aloof during the Senior Bowl.
No one doubts Berry has the athleticism and talent to be an impact player in the NFL, but teams are trying to figure out why he did not always produce as much as he could have. He needs to explain why his tackling was so bad and convince teams it was the result of mistakes rather than a hesitance to hit bigger ball-carriers. Additionally, if Berry wants to be considered a safety-first prospect, he needs to prove he has the toughness and willingness to tackle to overcome concerns about his lack of ideal size.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
Before the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off Wednesday, Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts name 11 defensive players who can solidify or improve their draft stocks with strong performances in Indianapolis. On Monday, Lande identified offensive players who need to succeed at the Combine.
Carlos Dunlap has the athleticism to be great, but does he have the desire?
Dunlap has freakish size, strength, athleticism and long arms, but he is not nearly as productive as someone with his talent should be. When he keeps his knees bent, uses good technique and plays with intensity and aggressiveness, he can be dominant. But too often, Dunlap gets upright at the snap, fails to attack the blocker and plays without passion. When that happens, he does not impact the play. To ensure that he’s a first-round pick, Dunlap needs to convince teams in interviews that he can play with intensity more frequently.
McCoy wants to create a real debate about whether he or Ndamukong Suh is the top defensive tackle in the draft. McCoy has flashed the rare explosiveness and athleticism few NFL defensive tackles possess, and many consider him a better all-around athlete than Suh, but he is not as productive or consistent as Suh on film. To overtake Suh, McCoy needs to work out well at the Combine. He also needs to convince teams that his inconsistent technique and aggressiveness were the result of what he was asked to do at Oklahoma rather than the product of poor effort.
Williams has been flying up draft boards. Considered a third-round prospect before the Senior Bowl, a strong showing in Mobile has made Williams a possible first-round pick. However, with several quality defensive tackles nipping at his heels – including D’Anthony Smith, Jeff Owens and Geno Atkins – Williams needs to show in his workout that he is a good enough athlete to be an impact DT in the NFL. Specifically, he needs to demonstrate that he has the explosiveness that does not appear on film. If Williams does not distinguish himself from the other DTs this week, then he could fall into the second round.
Spikes and McClain are generally considered the top two inside linebacker prospects in this year’s draft, but evaluators have one concern about both: playing speed. We have seen on film, and have heard constantly from NFL scouts, that both players are good, not elite, athletes who play faster than their 40 times thanks to great instincts that get them going in the right direction quickly after the snap. However, in order to prove they’re worthy of being top-15 picks, both need to run and work out well enough to ease concerns about their lack of top-end speed. If either player runs the 40 in more than 4.9 seconds, he could end up being a second-round pick.
Teams have doubts about Rennie Curran’s size, but not his productivity at Georgia.
If a player’s draft value was based solely on his athleticism and production, then Curran would be a surefire first-round pick, because he is constantly flying around the field making impact plays. However, Curran’s lack of size is likely to keep him out of the first round, and he has to measure over 5-11 to remain even a second- or third-round pick. Additionally, as with any short linebacker, he needs to shine in his workout to prove he has the athleticism to be productive in the NFL.
Norwood is the ultimate tweener in this year’s draft. He was a highly productive college defensive end despite looking much more like a linebacker. To avoid a decline in his draft stock, he must demonstrate to NFL teams that he has the athleticism and size wanted for players at one of those positions. In other words, he needs to define himself as either a defensive end or a linebacker. While many have criticized Norwood’s play at the Senior Bowl, we were impressed with the athleticism he showed in pass coverage, and we thought he showed good instincts and awareness playing away from the line of scrimmage for someone who spent most of his college career as a lineman. If NFL teams decide Norwood should be a linebacker, then he must demonstrate in interviews that he has the intelligence to make the transition to the new position.
Many believe Cox could be a first-round pick because of his size, strength, athleticism, toughness and instincts. However, to be drafted that high, he needs to impress in interviews, allaying concerns about his character stemming from off-field issues. Cox needs to prove he was just an immature kid who made some mistakes, not someone who will constantly cause headaches for his NFL team.
Evaluators can’t seem to agree about Cook. Some see him as a top cornerback prospect. Others see him as a solid cornerback prospect who does not fit at safety. Still others feel he has the talent to convert to safety and be a star. To move up from his likely third-round spot, Cook must prove he has the top-end foot quickness and all-around athleticism not only to play corner, but also to play safety and sometimes cover slot receivers. Additionally, Cook must prove in interviews that he can handle the mental transition to safety. Don’t be surprised if there’s a lot of buzz about Cook immediately after the Combine, because he has significantly helped his own stock recently.
Mays needs an excellent week in Indy to reestablish himself as a definite first-round pick after a disappointing week at the Senior Bowl. No one questions Mays’ instincts, toughness, competitiveness and run-support skills. However, he struggled greatly in man-to-man coverage in Mobile, and he needs to show in workouts that he has the hips and all-around athleticism to handle deep pass coverage in the NFL. No one expects Mays to be a star in pass coverage; he just needs to demonstrate he can be solid in order to ease teams’ concerns about his ability to be a good starting safety. Additionally, Mays needs to do well in interviews to overcome concerns that he was aloof during the Senior Bowl.
No one doubts Berry has the athleticism and talent to be an impact player in the NFL, but teams are trying to figure out why he did not always produce as much as he could have. He needs to explain why his tackling was so bad and convince teams it was the result of mistakes rather than a hesitance to hit bigger ball-carriers. Additionally, if Berry wants to be considered a safety-first prospect, he needs to prove he has the toughness and willingness to tackle to overcome concerns about his lack of ideal size.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
Ryan Fagan, Sporting News
A National League scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the NL East’s biggest questions:
Who’s the ace of the division: Roy Halladay, Johan Santana or Josh Johnson?
Scout says: "The ace of the division is Roy Halladay. He had another fantastic season for the Jays (in 2009), including a career-high 208 strikeouts. He’s escaped the A.L. East, but he landed in a more hitter-friendly home park. I still expect Cy Young-caliber performances from him, and his bids for individual and team hardware will be stronger as he’ll have an excellent chance at winning 20-plus games with a better team behind him in Philadelphia."
Which Met is more likely to bounce back after a disappointing 2009: David Wright or Oliver Perez?
Scout says: "Wright is more likely to bounce back. Wright has a good compact swing with strong, quick hands. (He) tried to do too much last season with several of their key guys on the disabled list, and he was expanding the strike zone. Perez has a high-maintenance delivery; he can get out of sync fast and continues to be off and on with command of his pitches."
Which Cole Hamels will show up this season?
Scout says: "Cole Hamels will be much better than he was in 2009, though it will be very hard to match his 2008 season. He began last year with some arm soreness, and his ERA went from 3.09 in 2008 to 4.32 in 2009. He needs to revive his curveball to get back to his 2008 form."
This story first appeared in the February 15, 2010 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Ryan Fagan, Sporting News
A National League scout spoke with Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan about three of the NL East’s biggest questions:
Who’s the ace of the division: Roy Halladay, Johan Santana or Josh Johnson?
Scout says: "The ace of the division is Roy Halladay. He had another fantastic season for the Jays (in 2009), including a career-high 208 strikeouts. He’s escaped the A.L. East, but he landed in a more hitter-friendly home park. I still expect Cy Young-caliber performances from him, and his bids for individual and team hardware will be stronger as he’ll have an excellent chance at winning 20-plus games with a better team behind him in Philadelphia."
Which Met is more likely to bounce back after a disappointing 2009: David Wright or Oliver Perez?
Scout says: "Wright is more likely to bounce back. Wright has a good compact swing with strong, quick hands. (He) tried to do too much last season with several of their key guys on the disabled list, and he was expanding the strike zone. Perez has a high-maintenance delivery; he can get out of sync fast and continues to be off and on with command of his pitches."
Which Cole Hamels will show up this season?
Scout says: "Cole Hamels will be much better than he was in 2009, though it will be very hard to match his 2008 season. He began last year with some arm soreness, and his ERA went from 3.09 in 2008 to 4.32 in 2009. He needs to revive his curveball to get back to his 2008 form."
This story first appeared in the February 15, 2010 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
