Combine Dish: Offensive players who need to do well

Before the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off Wednesday, Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts name 11 offensive players who can solidify or improve their draft stocks with strong performances in Indianapolis.

Jimmy Clausen can impress teams with his words, not his throws, at the Combine.
Jimmy Clausen can impress teams with his words, not his throws, at the Combine.

Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

Clausen has been hyped as a possible top-10 pick. Even though he is not throwing at the Combine, he needs a strong appearance to be drafted that high. Right off the bat, he can allay concerns that he is under 6-2, which would hurt his draft status. Then, Clausen will get to sit down with NFL teams and prove himself in interviews. Any team interested in drafting Clausen in the first round will most likely schedule a longer interview with him after the Combine, but these initial meetings will give teams insight into Clausen’s intelligence, communication skills and presence.

Levi Brown, QB, Troy University

Brown might be the prospect most in need of a strong Combine performance. During the 2009 season, Brown created a lot of buzz among scouts because of his athleticism, strong arm and outstanding production. However, a disappointing week of practice at the Texas vs. the Nation game raised concerns about his ability to make the leap to the NFL and play in a traditional pro offense. Brown needs to show that his physical tools are as good as they look on film to convince teams he merits more than a late-round selection or free-agent signing.

Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

After suffering a pinched nerve in the BCS championship game, McCoy supposedly wants to show his stuff at the Combine if he is 100 percent healthy. First, he will have to pass a physical and prove he is ready to throw. If he is healthy enough to work out, McCoy needs to assuage fears about his arm strength. If he cannot make all the NFL throws, McCoy could see his stock fall significantly.

Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford

No one denies Gerhart is tough, physical and aggressive, with the playing strength, balance and agility to run through contact. He will be drafted before the fourth round regardless of his Combine performance, but if he demonstrates big-play speed in Indy, then he could move up draft boards substantially. Gerhart may be a straight-line athlete, but we have a feeling he will surprise people by running the 40 in the low 4.5s or high 4.4s, which could result in him being a late-first-round pick.

Indianapolis is the next stop on LeGarrette Blount's road to redemption.
Indianapolis is the next stop on LeGarrette Blount’s road to redemption.

LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon

Blount’s pro prospects took a devastating blow when he was suspended after Oregon’s season-opening loss to Boise State. But just five months later, his draft stock is rising. He showed maturity by earning reinstatement late in Oregon’s season, and he shined at the Senior Bowl, where he showed better quickness, agility and athleticism than people expected from someone weighing more than 240 pounds. While Blount is still considered a third- to fifth-round pick right now, a strong Combine performance could make teams consider him for the second round.

Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse

After Williams was suspended for the 2008 season, many doubted he would make it back onto the Syracuse team, let alone replicate his prior productivity. Then, he had a stellar first month of the 2009 season and was on his way to becoming a second-round pick. However, the bottom fell out again when he either quit or was suspended for the rest of the season for reasons that haven’t become public. Williams has a chance to help his draft status with a strong Combine performance. He must impress in interviews to ease concerns about his inability to stay on a team, and he must run well. If he does, then Williams could be a third- or fourth-round pick.

Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona, and Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Gronkowski and Gresham are both elite tight end prospects with medical concerns. They must pass their physicals at the Combine to show NFL teams the injuries that ended their 2009 seasons won’t hinder them throughout their careers. Additionally, they must be deemed healthy enough to work out at the Combine, which could solidify their first-round statuses and keep them from sliding down draft boards.

Anthony McCoy, TE, USC

McCoy is a big tight end whose blocking skills are unquestioned. At the Senior Bowl, he looked quicker and more athletic than expected, making observers believe he could be a receiving threat in the NFL. At the Combine, McCoy needs to catch the ball in drills, run well in the 40 and jump well in the vertical to convince teams he has the quickness, burst and speed to make plays as a receiver.

Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami

Related Links

Graham is one of this year’s more interesting prospects. After playing basketball during his first four years at Miami, he played football for the first time since ninth grade in 2009. Graham flashed the receiving skills NFL teams are desperate to find in a tight end. However, at the Senior Bowl, he did not perform as well as many expected, looking more like a developmental project than a surefire pass-catching tight end. Still, if Graham shines at the Combine, he could fly up draft boards and become a first- or second-round pick.

Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana

Saffold was surprisingly one of the biggest risers of all-star-game season. He came to the East-West Shrine Game viewed as a late-round prospect by most NFL teams, but after shining all week in Orlando, many were talking about him being a third-round pick, at worst. Then, when NFL teams spent a week watching Senior Bowl practice, they suggested Saffold would have been the best offensive tackle there if he had been invited. As a result, Saffold has been mentioned as a possible second-round consideration. If he performs well at the Combine, he could not only lock up a spot in the second round, but also become a late first-rounder, because offensive tackles with exceptional athleticism and natural strength have been rare in recent drafts.

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 offensive players who can solidify or improve their draft stocks with strong performances in Indianapolis.

Jimmy Clausen can impress teams with his words, not his throws, at the Combine.
Jimmy Clausen can impress teams with his words, not his throws, at the Combine.

Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

Clausen has been hyped as a possible top-10 pick. Even though he is not throwing at the Combine, he needs a strong appearance to be drafted that high. Right off the bat, he can allay concerns that he is under 6-2, which would hurt his draft status. Then, Clausen will get to sit down with NFL teams and prove himself in interviews. Any team interested in drafting Clausen in the first round will most likely schedule a longer interview with him after the Combine, but these initial meetings will give teams insight into Clausen’s intelligence, communication skills and presence.

Levi Brown, QB, Troy University

Brown might be the prospect most in need of a strong Combine performance. During the 2009 season, Brown created a lot of buzz among scouts because of his athleticism, strong arm and outstanding production. However, a disappointing week of practice at the Texas vs. the Nation game raised concerns about his ability to make the leap to the NFL and play in a traditional pro offense. Brown needs to show that his physical tools are as good as they look on film to convince teams he merits more than a late-round selection or free-agent signing.

Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

After suffering a pinched nerve in the BCS championship game, McCoy supposedly wants to show his stuff at the Combine if he is 100 percent healthy. First, he will have to pass a physical and prove he is ready to throw. If he is healthy enough to work out, McCoy needs to assuage fears about his arm strength. If he cannot make all the NFL throws, McCoy could see his stock fall significantly.

Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford

No one denies Gerhart is tough, physical and aggressive, with the playing strength, balance and agility to run through contact. He will be drafted before the fourth round regardless of his Combine performance, but if he demonstrates big-play speed in Indy, then he could move up draft boards substantially. Gerhart may be a straight-line athlete, but we have a feeling he will surprise people by running the 40 in the low 4.5s or high 4.4s, which could result in him being a late-first-round pick.

Indianapolis is the next stop on LeGarrette Blount's road to redemption.
Indianapolis is the next stop on LeGarrette Blount’s road to redemption.

LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon

Blount’s pro prospects took a devastating blow when he was suspended after Oregon’s season-opening loss to Boise State. But just five months later, his draft stock is rising. He showed maturity by earning reinstatement late in Oregon’s season, and he shined at the Senior Bowl, where he showed better quickness, agility and athleticism than people expected from someone weighing more than 240 pounds. While Blount is still considered a third- to fifth-round pick right now, a strong Combine performance could make teams consider him for the second round.

Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse

After Williams was suspended for the 2008 season, many doubted he would make it back onto the Syracuse team, let alone replicate his prior productivity. Then, he had a stellar first month of the 2009 season and was on his way to becoming a second-round pick. However, the bottom fell out again when he either quit or was suspended for the rest of the season for reasons that haven’t become public. Williams has a chance to help his draft status with a strong Combine performance. He must impress in interviews to ease concerns about his inability to stay on a team, and he must run well. If he does, then Williams could be a third- or fourth-round pick.

Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona, and Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Gronkowski and Gresham are both elite tight end prospects with medical concerns. They must pass their physicals at the Combine to show NFL teams the injuries that ended their 2009 seasons won’t hinder them throughout their careers. Additionally, they must be deemed healthy enough to work out at the Combine, which could solidify their first-round statuses and keep them from sliding down draft boards.

Anthony McCoy, TE, USC

McCoy is a big tight end whose blocking skills are unquestioned. At the Senior Bowl, he looked quicker and more athletic than expected, making observers believe he could be a receiving threat in the NFL. At the Combine, McCoy needs to catch the ball in drills, run well in the 40 and jump well in the vertical to convince teams he has the quickness, burst and speed to make plays as a receiver.

Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami

Related Links

Graham is one of this year’s more interesting prospects. After playing basketball during his first four years at Miami, he played football for the first time since ninth grade in 2009. Graham flashed the receiving skills NFL teams are desperate to find in a tight end. However, at the Senior Bowl, he did not perform as well as many expected, looking more like a developmental project than a surefire pass-catching tight end. Still, if Graham shines at the Combine, he could fly up draft boards and become a first- or second-round pick.

Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana

Saffold was surprisingly one of the biggest risers of all-star-game season. He came to the East-West Shrine Game viewed as a late-round prospect by most NFL teams, but after shining all week in Orlando, many were talking about him being a third-round pick, at worst. Then, when NFL teams spent a week watching Senior Bowl practice, they suggested Saffold would have been the best offensive tackle there if he had been invited. As a result, Saffold has been mentioned as a possible second-round consideration. If he performs well at the Combine, he could not only lock up a spot in the second round, but also become a late first-rounder, because offensive tackles with exceptional athleticism and natural strength have been rare in recent drafts.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.

2010 free-agent preview: Defensive linemen

This is the second 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.

The Peppers game

As the Panthers’ franchise player last season, Julius Peppers made $16.7 million. Based on his production from 2009, that turned out to be about $1.6 million per sack. Unlikely to be tagged again (UPDATE: Reports Monday night said he won’t be) and back on the open market, he’ll command a contract that rivals that of some top quarterbacks.

With Julius Peppers all but done in Charlotte, teams must balance concerns over his price tag with his productivity.
With Julius Peppers all but done in Charlotte, teams must balance concerns over his price tag with his productivity.

In addition to his price tag, there are other concerns about Peppers. Critics have often questioned whether he plays with the same drive on every snap.

Although Peppers has said he’s flexible to a move to 3-4 outside linebacker, there is a concern if he can be effective in that role.

Former NFL defensive lineman Marcellus Wiley, an ESPN analyst, thinks Peppers, at 6-7, 283 and a former basketball player, has athleticism to do very well, but that’s only part of the equation.

"You never how that will translate into coverage," and "It’s a lot different when you’re one-on-one with backs or tight ends."

The Patriots have been a popular rumored suitor, even though a splashy, expensive acquisition hasn’t been their typical offseason approach.

A good nose is hard to find

There’s a big reason the Patriots and Steelers enjoyed great play from their three-man fronts over the past decade: They both have had strong, consistent nose tackles in Vince Wilfork and Casey Hampton.

Wilfork, Hampton and 49ers rising star Aubrayo Frankllin are all set to get tagged as franchise players, and there’s a chance another 3-4 nose tackle, Green Bay’s Ryan Pickett also gets that designation.

With so many other teams joining the Packers in a recent switch to a three-man front — such as Denver, Miami and now Buffalo — it’s become all the more important to lock up that interior linchpin.

"When teams find that nose tackle, they tend to not let him go," said an NFC team’s director of pro personnel. "It’s such a rare commodity and a hard position to fill."

Because of that, it may leave teams like the Dolphins hoping they can convert a solid 4-3 Tackle — such as the the Giants’ Barry Cofield — into a nose.

Do the hustle

If a team is looking for a high-effort, experienced pass rusher, and it can look past age and previous knee injuries, there is short-term help available.

 
Free agency at a glance
Franchise tag deadline: Feb. 25
Free agency begins: March 5
Unrestricted: A player with six or more years of continuous NFL service
Restricted: A player with three years of continuous NFL service
CBA: Fourth- and fifth-year players will become "restricted’ free agents unless there is a new collective bargaining agreement in place by March 5

Aaron Kampman is coming off a tough year in Green Bay. The transition from 4-3 end to 3-4 outside linebacker didn’t suit the strengths of the two-time double-digit sack producer, and a torn ACL cut short his season after nine games. At 30, he’d be best back at end, where he can fight hard to get upfield and not worry about coverage.

"There’s a comfort level there that comes with confidence," Wiley said of Kampman. "He’s obviously familiar with rushing the quarterback well in a 4-3."

For a slightly older option, there’s Kampman’s fellow Iowan Kyle Vanden Bosch, 31. Like Kampman, Vanden Bosch always hustles and can still contribute well to a team with an aggressive scheme.

It’s OK to stay, Ray

One of the most frustrated free agents among those affected by the players-owners rift is Vikings end Ray Edwards. Only 25, Edwards may not be able to cash in the way he would like for the long term after a breakthrough career-high 8 ½ -sack fourth season.

Although Edwards likely won’t get to take on the challenge of trying to succeed away from Minnesota’s front four, remaining another year in a favorable situation may end up boosting his value in 2011.

"Few young linemen ever get a chance to play along with players such as Jared Allen, Pat Williams and Kevin Williams," Wiley said. "He’s better off staying put with that defensive line and improving over another season."

The top 10

1. Vince Wilfork DT, Patriots (F)
2. Julius Peppers DE, Panthers (UFA)
3. Ray Edwards DE, Vikings*
4. Marcus Spears DE, Cowboys*
5. Aaron Kampman DE, Packers (UFA)
6. Aubrayo Franklin DT, 49ers (F)
7. Richard Seymour DE, Raiders (F)
8. Casey Hampton DE, Steelers (F)
9. Barry Cofield DT, Giants*
10. Kyle Vanden Bosch DE, Titans (UFA)
UFA=will be an unrestricted free agent
*=will be restricted without new CBA

 

And one more to watch

Related Links

DT Shaun Rogers, Browns
He’s 30, and with his massive, 6-4, 350-pound frame, he tends to wear down late in games, which limits his snaps. But when he’s on the field against the run, he eats up plenty of space. If he doesn’t move to end in Cleveland, he might be moved for a high draft pick.

A means to a 3-4 end

For the many teams using a 3-4 defense, it’s not easy finding that big nose tackle or a top-flight edge pass rusher at outside linebacker. Luckily, another specialty player is created by that front, the tackle-like, blocker-absorbing end.

The best of that group, Marcus Spears, will be back with the Cowboys, but options set to hit the market include the Jets’ Marques Douglas, the Patriots’ Jarvis Green and the Ravens’ Dwan Edwards.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

This is the second 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.

The Peppers game

As the Panthers’ franchise player last season, Julius Peppers made $16.7 million. Based on his production from 2009, that turned out to be about $1.6 million per sack. Unlikely to be tagged again (UPDATE: Reports Monday night said he won’t be) and back on the open market, he’ll command a contract that rivals that of some top quarterbacks.

With Julius Peppers all but done in Charlotte, teams must balance concerns over his price tag with his productivity.
With Julius Peppers all but done in Charlotte, teams must balance concerns over his price tag with his productivity.

In addition to his price tag, there are other concerns about Peppers. Critics have often questioned whether he plays with the same drive on every snap.

Although Peppers has said he’s flexible to a move to 3-4 outside linebacker, there is a concern if he can be effective in that role.

Former NFL defensive lineman Marcellus Wiley, an ESPN analyst, thinks Peppers, at 6-7, 283 and a former basketball player, has athleticism to do very well, but that’s only part of the equation.

"You never how that will translate into coverage," and "It’s a lot different when you’re one-on-one with backs or tight ends."

The Patriots have been a popular rumored suitor, even though a splashy, expensive acquisition hasn’t been their typical offseason approach.

A good nose is hard to find

There’s a big reason the Patriots and Steelers enjoyed great play from their three-man fronts over the past decade: They both have had strong, consistent nose tackles in Vince Wilfork and Casey Hampton.

Wilfork, Hampton and 49ers rising star Aubrayo Frankllin are all set to get tagged as franchise players, and there’s a chance another 3-4 nose tackle, Green Bay’s Ryan Pickett also gets that designation.

With so many other teams joining the Packers in a recent switch to a three-man front — such as Denver, Miami and now Buffalo — it’s become all the more important to lock up that interior linchpin.

"When teams find that nose tackle, they tend to not let him go," said an NFC team’s director of pro personnel. "It’s such a rare commodity and a hard position to fill."

Because of that, it may leave teams like the Dolphins hoping they can convert a solid 4-3 Tackle — such as the the Giants’ Barry Cofield — into a nose.

Do the hustle

If a team is looking for a high-effort, experienced pass rusher, and it can look past age and previous knee injuries, there is short-term help available.

 
Free agency at a glance
Franchise tag deadline: Feb. 25
Free agency begins: March 5
Unrestricted: A player with six or more years of continuous NFL service
Restricted: A player with three years of continuous NFL service
CBA: Fourth- and fifth-year players will become "restricted’ free agents unless there is a new collective bargaining agreement in place by March 5

Aaron Kampman is coming off a tough year in Green Bay. The transition from 4-3 end to 3-4 outside linebacker didn’t suit the strengths of the two-time double-digit sack producer, and a torn ACL cut short his season after nine games. At 30, he’d be best back at end, where he can fight hard to get upfield and not worry about coverage.

"There’s a comfort level there that comes with confidence," Wiley said of Kampman. "He’s obviously familiar with rushing the quarterback well in a 4-3."

For a slightly older option, there’s Kampman’s fellow Iowan Kyle Vanden Bosch, 31. Like Kampman, Vanden Bosch always hustles and can still contribute well to a team with an aggressive scheme.

It’s OK to stay, Ray

One of the most frustrated free agents among those affected by the players-owners rift is Vikings end Ray Edwards. Only 25, Edwards may not be able to cash in the way he would like for the long term after a breakthrough career-high 8 ½ -sack fourth season.

Although Edwards likely won’t get to take on the challenge of trying to succeed away from Minnesota’s front four, remaining another year in a favorable situation may end up boosting his value in 2011.

"Few young linemen ever get a chance to play along with players such as Jared Allen, Pat Williams and Kevin Williams," Wiley said. "He’s better off staying put with that defensive line and improving over another season."

The top 10

1. Vince Wilfork DT, Patriots (F)
2. Julius Peppers DE, Panthers (UFA)
3. Ray Edwards DE, Vikings*
4. Marcus Spears DE, Cowboys*
5. Aaron Kampman DE, Packers (UFA)
6. Aubrayo Franklin DT, 49ers (F)
7. Richard Seymour DE, Raiders (F)
8. Casey Hampton DE, Steelers (F)
9. Barry Cofield DT, Giants*
10. Kyle Vanden Bosch DE, Titans (UFA)
UFA=will be an unrestricted free agent
*=will be restricted without new CBA

 

And one more to watch

Related Links

DT Shaun Rogers, Browns
He’s 30, and with his massive, 6-4, 350-pound frame, he tends to wear down late in games, which limits his snaps. But when he’s on the field against the run, he eats up plenty of space. If he doesn’t move to end in Cleveland, he might be moved for a high draft pick.

A means to a 3-4 end

For the many teams using a 3-4 defense, it’s not easy finding that big nose tackle or a top-flight edge pass rusher at outside linebacker. Luckily, another specialty player is created by that front, the tackle-like, blocker-absorbing end.

The best of that group, Marcus Spears, will be back with the Cowboys, but options set to hit the market include the Jets’ Marques Douglas, the Patriots’ Jarvis Green and the Ravens’ Dwan Edwards.

Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.

Fly’s rumorama: Brian McNamee, Johnny Weir, Mike Comrie, Charlie Rhymer, Ozzie Guillen

MLB: In "where have you gone?" news, Brian McNamee has popped up in the news again – as trainer for New York Daily News Assistant Racing Editor Chuck Gardella as he enters a 90-day "Biggest Newser" weight loss contest with his Daily News fellow sports staffers. Fly’s really hoping for video.

Skating: In perhaps the biggest injustice of these Olympic Games, Johhny Weir has not been invited to Saturday’s Olympic gala, an exhibition skate for the Olympians. That means we’ll all be denied Weir’s skate to Lady Gaga’s "Poker Face." This cannot be allowed, and the Johnny Weir War Wagon has been enlisted, thanks to YahooSports.com.

NHL: Non-Olympian NHLer Mike Comrie of the Edmonton Oilers spent the break in Hawaii, proposing to Hillary Duff. More paparazzi pics – allegedly of the big moment – here.

Golf: In case you missed The Golf Channel’s Charlie Rymer shedding the tears that many critics say Tiger should have let loose during his apology speech Friday … we have the YouTube for ya:

More MLB: Speaking of YouTube, we expect to see numerous clips from "The Club," MLB Network’s show featuring the White Sox’s front office, appear on the social video site. "I’m going to be myself," manager Ozzie Guillen told the Chicago Tribune. "You might see a lot of beep. One thing about it. I’m not going to change. I’m going to talk as if no one is around me.”

MLB: In "where have you gone?" news, Brian McNamee has popped up in the news again – as trainer for New York Daily News Assistant Racing Editor Chuck Gardella as he enters a 90-day "Biggest Newser" weight loss contest with his Daily News fellow sports staffers. Fly’s really hoping for video.

Skating: In perhaps the biggest injustice of these Olympic Games, Johhny Weir has not been invited to Saturday’s Olympic gala, an exhibition skate for the Olympians. That means we’ll all be denied Weir’s skate to Lady Gaga’s "Poker Face." This cannot be allowed, and the Johnny Weir War Wagon has been enlisted, thanks to YahooSports.com.

NHL: Non-Olympian NHLer Mike Comrie of the Edmonton Oilers spent the break in Hawaii, proposing to Hillary Duff. More paparazzi pics – allegedly of the big moment – here.

Golf: In case you missed The Golf Channel’s Charlie Rymer shedding the tears that many critics say Tiger should have let loose during his apology speech Friday … we have the YouTube for ya:

More MLB: Speaking of YouTube, we expect to see numerous clips from "The Club," MLB Network’s show featuring the White Sox’s front office, appear on the social video site. "I’m going to be myself," manager Ozzie Guillen told the Chicago Tribune. "You might see a lot of beep. One thing about it. I’m not going to change. I’m going to talk as if no one is around me.”

Gonzalez tabbed as Orioles’ closer; Bergesen checks out OK

Sporting News staff reports

Orioles manager Dave Trembley officially announced that Mike Gonzalez will be the team’s closer this season, according to the Baltimore Sun. Gonzalez had 10 saves with the Braves in 2009 and has 54 saves in his career.

In other Orioles news, right-hander Brad Bergesen, who strained his pitching shoulder while filming a TV commercial for the team in December, had no problems throwing on flat ground Friday. Assuming he is healthy, Bergesen is expected to serve as the team’s fourth starter.

Sporting News staff reports

Orioles manager Dave Trembley officially announced that Mike Gonzalez will be the team’s closer this season, according to the Baltimore Sun. Gonzalez had 10 saves with the Braves in 2009 and has 54 saves in his career.

In other Orioles news, right-hander Brad Bergesen, who strained his pitching shoulder while filming a TV commercial for the team in December, had no problems throwing on flat ground Friday. Assuming he is healthy, Bergesen is expected to serve as the team’s fourth starter.

Phillies closer Lidge to continue rehab with mound session

Sporting News staff reports

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Phillies closer Brad Lidge will throw off the mound Monday for the first time since his offseason elbow and knee surgeries, a few days ahead of schedule. Lidge had said his first work off a mound would be in the middle of the week.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee told the paper the plan is for Lidge to throw 20 to 25 fastballs. "He’s done a little movement stuff," Dubee said. "He’s doing fine. We hope to have him on the mound (Monday)."

Left-handed setup reliever J.C. Romero, meanwhile, is behind Lidge in his recovery from elbow surgery, but apparently not far.
 

Sporting News staff reports

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Phillies closer Brad Lidge will throw off the mound Monday for the first time since his offseason elbow and knee surgeries, a few days ahead of schedule. Lidge had said his first work off a mound would be in the middle of the week.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee told the paper the plan is for Lidge to throw 20 to 25 fastballs. "He’s done a little movement stuff," Dubee said. "He’s doing fine. We hope to have him on the mound (Monday)."

Left-handed setup reliever J.C. Romero, meanwhile, is behind Lidge in his recovery from elbow surgery, but apparently not far.
 

Mets manager mulls moving Jose Reyes from leadoff to No. 3 spot

Sporting News staff reports

The New York Daily News reports Mets manager Jerry Manuel is considering moving shortstop Jose Reyes from the leadoff spot to No. 3 in the batting order, a switch Reyes had resisted in the past but now says he will make if requested.

With center fielder Carlos Beltran expected to begin the season on the disabled list, Manuel is considering an order that would start with second baseman Luis Castillo, first baseman Daniel Murphy and Reyes. After Beltran returns, Manuel could go Castillo-Murphy-Reyes-Beltran-David Wright-Jason Bay-Jeff Francoeur, or Castillo-Wright-Reyes-Beltran-Bay-Murphy-Francoeur.

"I would love to see (Reyes) as a third hitter, assuming the other parts fit," Manuel told the paper.

Sporting News staff reports

The New York Daily News reports Mets manager Jerry Manuel is considering moving shortstop Jose Reyes from the leadoff spot to No. 3 in the batting order, a switch Reyes had resisted in the past but now says he will make if requested.

With center fielder Carlos Beltran expected to begin the season on the disabled list, Manuel is considering an order that would start with second baseman Luis Castillo, first baseman Daniel Murphy and Reyes. After Beltran returns, Manuel could go Castillo-Murphy-Reyes-Beltran-David Wright-Jason Bay-Jeff Francoeur, or Castillo-Wright-Reyes-Beltran-Bay-Murphy-Francoeur.

"I would love to see (Reyes) as a third hitter, assuming the other parts fit," Manuel told the paper.

Albert Pujols says injured elbow is 95 percent healed, won’t need Tommy John surgery

Sporting News staff reports

Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols told MLB.com on Sunday there’s a good chance he will never have to undergo Tommy John surgery on a troublesome right elbow that now is "95 percent healed" and said he’s ready for a big season.
 
Pujols, a three-time National League MVP, has been battling an elbow problem since 2003 amid predictions he eventually would have to have ligament replacement surgery on the joint. But two lesser surgeries seem to have eased the pain and lessened the need for more serious procedures.

The first was a surgery that transposed his ulnar nerve in late 2008. The second came in the offseason when he had bone spurs removed from his elbow.
 
Pujols said he now believes the elbow will be much less of a problem, both physically and mentally.
 
"I think we played it the right way," he told the Web site. "Both of the doctors (Dr. James Andrews and Dr. George Paletta) have experience. It’s good news, Dr. Andrews telling me, ‘Probably, you will never have to worry about the Tommy John.’ That’s good news. I feel great, and I can see the difference."

Sporting News staff reports

Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols told MLB.com on Sunday there’s a good chance he will never have to undergo Tommy John surgery on a troublesome right elbow that now is "95 percent healed" and said he’s ready for a big season.
 
Pujols, a three-time National League MVP, has been battling an elbow problem since 2003 amid predictions he eventually would have to have ligament replacement surgery on the joint. But two lesser surgeries seem to have eased the pain and lessened the need for more serious procedures.

The first was a surgery that transposed his ulnar nerve in late 2008. The second came in the offseason when he had bone spurs removed from his elbow.
 
Pujols said he now believes the elbow will be much less of a problem, both physically and mentally.
 
"I think we played it the right way," he told the Web site. "Both of the doctors (Dr. James Andrews and Dr. George Paletta) have experience. It’s good news, Dr. Andrews telling me, ‘Probably, you will never have to worry about the Tommy John.’ That’s good news. I feel great, and I can see the difference."

Prospect profile: Jason Worilds, DE, Virginia Tech

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 Jason Worilds.

NFL position: DE
Height: 6-2
Weight: 240
40 time: 4.75
Current projection: Third-round pick

Jason Worilds has the athleticism and pass-rush skills to play linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he lacks skills away from the line of scrimmage.
Jason Worilds has the athleticism and pass-rush skills to play linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he lacks skills away from the line of scrimmage.

Strengths: Is an elite athlete with the quickness, speed and explosiveness to make an impact rushing the passer when aggressive. Has an explosive closing burst to the quarterback and can deliver a violent hit. Can beat tackles outside with quick hands or inside with a very good spin move. Flashes a surprising ability to jolt and drive tackles backward into the quarterback’s lap; can then free up and get the sack. Is very competitive chasing after running plays in pursuit; shows the rare athleticism to hurdle low blocks and gets back to full speed in a flash. Has the top-level speed and burst to consistently finish plays. Has the athleticism to change directions fast and avoid blockers in space.

Weaknesses: Is a ‘tweener. Looks more like a linebacker than an end. Does not have good instincts and awareness, which is more of a problem the farther from the line a defender plays. Is often the last lineman moving at the snap. Does not maintain backside containment responsibility on plays away from him. Does not rush the quarterback aggressively on every snap, reducing his productivity. Lacks ideal size to play end and struggles to get free from opposing linemen once they get a hold of him.

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Bottom line: Worilds definitely could have helped his stock by staying in school for another season, during which he could have defined himself as an end or outside linebacker and improved his instincts and awareness. When he rushes the passer aggressively, he looks like an elite athlete who could be very effective as an undersized pass rusher in a 4-3 scheme. But when he does not rush aggressively, he gets tied up and eliminated from the play too easily. He definitely looks like he fits best as a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he does not seem very instinctive and is less effective when he plays behind the line. We think Worilds will be drafted higher than we have him rated because he should test out very well at the Combine. But his ‘tweener size and lack of instincts make us concerned that he will struggle to be consistently productive.

For more than 200 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 has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft . Here is a capsule look at prospect Jason Worilds.

NFL position: DE
Height: 6-2
Weight: 240
40 time: 4.75
Current projection: Third-round pick

Jason Worilds has the athleticism and pass-rush skills to play linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he lacks skills away from the line of scrimmage.
Jason Worilds has the athleticism and pass-rush skills to play linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he lacks skills away from the line of scrimmage.

Strengths: Is an elite athlete with the quickness, speed and explosiveness to make an impact rushing the passer when aggressive. Has an explosive closing burst to the quarterback and can deliver a violent hit. Can beat tackles outside with quick hands or inside with a very good spin move. Flashes a surprising ability to jolt and drive tackles backward into the quarterback’s lap; can then free up and get the sack. Is very competitive chasing after running plays in pursuit; shows the rare athleticism to hurdle low blocks and gets back to full speed in a flash. Has the top-level speed and burst to consistently finish plays. Has the athleticism to change directions fast and avoid blockers in space.

Weaknesses: Is a ‘tweener. Looks more like a linebacker than an end. Does not have good instincts and awareness, which is more of a problem the farther from the line a defender plays. Is often the last lineman moving at the snap. Does not maintain backside containment responsibility on plays away from him. Does not rush the quarterback aggressively on every snap, reducing his productivity. Lacks ideal size to play end and struggles to get free from opposing linemen once they get a hold of him.

Related Links

Bottom line: Worilds definitely could have helped his stock by staying in school for another season, during which he could have defined himself as an end or outside linebacker and improved his instincts and awareness. When he rushes the passer aggressively, he looks like an elite athlete who could be very effective as an undersized pass rusher in a 4-3 scheme. But when he does not rush aggressively, he gets tied up and eliminated from the play too easily. He definitely looks like he fits best as a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he does not seem very instinctive and is less effective when he plays behind the line. We think Worilds will be drafted higher than we have him rated because he should test out very well at the Combine. But his ‘tweener size and lack of instincts make us concerned that he will struggle to be consistently productive.

For more than 200 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.

Mets firm up catching situation by agreeing to contract with Rod Barajas

Sporting News staff reports

After missing on Bengie Molina and Yorvit Torrealba, the Mets have turned to free agent Rod Barajas to be their No. 1 catcher this season.

MLB.com reports Barajas on Saturday agreed to a one-year major league contract with New York. The site does not give specific terms, but it says media reports of a $1 million base salary are inaccurate. The site also reports the deal is pending a physical.

Barajas, 34, will supplant Omir Santos as the Mets’ top backstop. Santos is now likely headed for Triple-A, where he’ll back up prospect Josh Thole. Henry Blanco was signed in the offseason to be the No. 2 catcher.

The Mets add a needed power bat in Barajas, who hit 19 home runs and drove in 71 runs for the Blue Jays last season.

Sporting News staff reports

After missing on Bengie Molina and Yorvit Torrealba, the Mets have turned to free agent Rod Barajas to be their No. 1 catcher this season.

MLB.com reports Barajas on Saturday agreed to a one-year major league contract with New York. The site does not give specific terms, but it says media reports of a $1 million base salary are inaccurate. The site also reports the deal is pending a physical.

Barajas, 34, will supplant Omir Santos as the Mets’ top backstop. Santos is now likely headed for Triple-A, where he’ll back up prospect Josh Thole. Henry Blanco was signed in the offseason to be the No. 2 catcher.

The Mets add a needed power bat in Barajas, who hit 19 home runs and drove in 71 runs for the Blue Jays last season.

Roy Halladay will respond to Johan Santana with his pitching

Sporting News staff reports

After Mets left-hander Johan Santana picked himself as the best pitcher in the NL East, Philadelphia reporters asked Phillies right-hander Roy Halladay the same question. But Halladay declined to add additional fuel to the Mets-Phillies rivalry.

"No, I steer clear of that," Halladay told the Philadelphia Daily News. "I think it was a Lou Holtz quote, ‘Well-done is always more important than well-said.’ I’ve always tried to take that philosophy."

Sporting News staff reports

After Mets left-hander Johan Santana picked himself as the best pitcher in the NL East, Philadelphia reporters asked Phillies right-hander Roy Halladay the same question. But Halladay declined to add additional fuel to the Mets-Phillies rivalry.

"No, I steer clear of that," Halladay told the Philadelphia Daily News. "I think it was a Lou Holtz quote, ‘Well-done is always more important than well-said.’ I’ve always tried to take that philosophy."