Mock Draft Roundup: Third Edition Posted 14 hours ago Myles Simmons

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  • #18262
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    St. Louis Rams
    Mock Draft Roundup: Third Edition

    Posted 15 hours ago

    Myles Simmons

    There have been plenty more mock drafts released since our last installment, many of which have been affected by the Senior Bowl.

    As always with these, keep in mind that the picks are essentially guesses. We’ll only know who the Rams will take with their No. 10 overall pick when the card is turned in and commissioner Roger Goodell makes the announcement from the podium.

    With the customary disclaimer out of the way, let’s get right to it.

    When we last checked in with ESPN’s Todd McShay, he had the Rams selecting at No. 12 — because the season had yet to reach its conclusion — and taking Miami (FL) offensive tackle Ereck Flowers.
    
In his second mock draft (subscription required – $$), however, McShay has St. Louis picking wide receiver Kevin White of West Virginia. McShay says that White would provide an immediate upgrade for the position, adding, “wide receiver makes the most sense here, and White is a complete player with good size and outstanding ball skills.”

    White played two seasons for Lackawanna College before transferring to WVU. The 6-foot-3 receiver starred in his senior season as a Mountaineer, recording 1,447 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. His 109 receptions led the Big 12 and was No. 3 in the nation.

    In his first Mock Draft, Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com has the Rams going with defense, selecting cornerback Trae Waynes out of Michigan State.

    “It’s not a great year for CBs, but Waynes is intriguing,” Jeremiah writes. “He has good size, speed and agility. His physical style will appeal to [Rams head coach] Jeff Fisher.”

    Waynes recorded 46 tackles, three interceptions, and a sack in his redshirt junior season. He was named first-team All-Big 10, and a second-team All-American for 2014. The 6-foot-1 cornerback played in 36 career games, including 27 career starts.

    Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller has also changed his mind on who St. Louis should pick in his latest mock draft. While he had the Rams going with Mississippi State linebacker Benardrick McKinney, he now thinks the franchise will pick offensive tackle La’el Collins of LSU.

    “Collins has the strength in the run game to play right tackle at a high level, and he also has the quick feet needed to do work in pass protection,” Miller writes. “This isn’t a bad left tackle being moved to right tackle, but a top-tier offensive lineman with the versatility to play either side.”

    In 2014, the 6-foot-5, 308-pound tackle was awarded the Jacobs Blocking Trophy, given to the SEC’s best blocker. He was also named first-team All-SEC and a second-team All-American.

    Over at Rotoworld, analyst Josh Norris has the Rams taking Iowa offensive lineman Brandon Scherff. Though Scherff played tackle for the Hawkeyes, Norris thinks that the 6-foot-5, 315-pound lineman may project better inside.

    “The NFL loves to mimic what has been successful in recent years,” Norris writes. “Last year? Power and athletic tackles moving to guard (Zack Martin [Cowboys], Joel Bitonio [Browns]). I think Scherff can stay at tackle, but a team might really value him inside.”

    Scherff raked in plenty of awards following the 2014 season, as he won the Outland Trophy — (awarded to the best interior lineman in the nation), the Rimington-Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year (a conference award from from the Big 10), was named a unanimous All-American, and first-team All-Big 10.

    Finally, Pat Kirwan of CBS Sports has the Rams going with offensive tackle Andrus Peat out of Stanford. Kirwan considers him to be a “plug-in starter.”

    In a previous roundup, Dane Brugler, also of CBS Sports, had the Rams picking Peat as well. Peat started at left tackle at Stanford for two years, winning the Morris Trophy — awarded to the Pac 12’s top offensive lineman — in 2014.

    Agamemnon

    #18264
    Avatar photowv
    Participant

    No way they go defense with the first pick.

    w
    v

    #18345
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    Mike Mayock’s position rankings for 2015 NFL Draft

    By Mike Mayock
    NFL Media draft analyst

    http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470108/article/mike-mayocks-position-rankings-for-2015-nfl-draft

    Quarterback
    1. Jameis Winston, Florida State
    2. Marcus Mariota, Oregon
    3. Bryce Petty, Baylor
    4. Brett Hundley, UCLA
    5. Garrett Grayson, Colorado State

    Running back
    1. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin
    2. Todd Gurley, Georgia
    3. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska
    4. Duke Johnson, Miami (Fla.)
    5. Tevin Coleman, Indiana

    Wide receiver
    1. Kevin White, West Virginia
    2. Amari Cooper, Alabama
    3. DeVante Parker, Louisville
    4. Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri
    5. Devin Funchess, Michigan

    Tight end
    1. Maxx Williams, Minnesota
    2. Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.)
    3. Nick O’Leary, Florida State
    4. Tyler Kroft, Rutgers
    5. Ben Koyack, Notre Dame

    Interior offensive linemen
    1. Brandon Scherff, Iowa
    2. Cameron Erving, Florida State
    3. Laken Tomlinson, Duke
    4. A.J. Cann, South Carolina
    5. Tre’ Jackson, Florida State

    Offensive tackle
    1. T.J. Clemmings, Pittsburgh
    2. Andrus Peat, Stanford
    3. La’el Collins, LSU
    4. Ereck Flowers, Miami (Fla.)
    5t. Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M
    5t. D.J. Humphries, Florida

    Interior defensive linemen
    1. Leonard Williams, USC
    2. Danny Shelton, Washington
    3. Malcom Brown, Texas
    4. Arik Armstead, Oregon
    5t. Jordan Phillips, Oklahoma
    5t. Eddie Goldman, Florida State

    Edge rusher
    1. Dante Fowler, Jr., Florida
    2. Randy Gregory, Nebraska
    3. Shane Ray, Missouri
    4. Vic Beasley, Clemson
    5. Bud Dupree, Kentucky

    Linebacker
    1. Paul Dawson, TCU
    2. Benardrick McKinney, Mississippi State
    3. Denzel Perryman, Miami (Fla.)
    4. Eric Kendricks, UCLA
    5. Stephone Anthony, Clemson

    Cornerback
    1. Trae Waynes, Michigan State
    2. Marcus Peters, Washington
    3. Jalen Collins, LSU
    4. P.J. Williams, Florida State
    5. Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest

    Safety
    1. Landon Collins, Alabama
    2. Shaq Thompson, Washington
    3. Derron Smith, Fresno State
    4. Jaquiski Tartt, Samford
    5. Ibraheim Campbell, Northwestern

    #18355
    Herzog
    Participant

    Is this a strong year for offensive lineman? Or are they just mentioning the best available?

    #18357
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    Is this a strong year for offensive lineman? Or are they just mentioning the best available?

    Yeah I would like to hear about that too from the Draft Dedicated types. The vibe I get so far is that it is a deep year for guards and right tackles, and less so for centers and left tackles.

    #18359
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    There are 4 of 5 tackles good enough to play left tackle. They just aren’t good enough to be much more than a top 10 pick. Some of them are being projected to other positions or playing their first year at a different position, especially if you already have a LT.

    1 Brandon Scherff 6-5 320 5.15 Iowa X/OG
    2 *Andrus Peat 6-6 315 5.25 Stanford
    3 La’el Collins 6-5 315 5.15 LSU OG
    4 *Ereck Flowers 6-5 325 5.3 Miami
    5 T.J. Clemmings 6-5 305 5.15 Pittsburgh

    All of these could be gone between about pick 8 to pick 20 something, Different teams will rate them in different orders. If the kid from ND had come out, he would have been a top 5. imo

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photoAgamemnon.

    Agamemnon

    #18361
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    There are 4 of 5 tackles good enough to play left tackle. They just aren’t good enough to be much more than a top 10 pick. Some of them are being projected to other positions or playing their first year at a different position, especially if you already have a LT.

    1 Brandon Scherff 6-5 320 5.15 Iowa X/OG
    2 *Andrus Peat 6-6 315 5.25 Stanford
    3 La’el Collins 6-5 315 5.15 LSU OG
    4 *Ereck Flowers 6-5 325 5.3 Miami
    5 T.J. Clemmings 6-5 305 5.15 Pittsburgh

    All of these could be gone between about pick 8 to pick 20 something, Different teams will rate them in different orders. If the kid from ND had come out, he would have been a top 5. imo

    How would you rate the year overall for OL in general?

    #18365
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon wrote:
    There are 4 of 5 tackles good enough to play left tackle. They just aren’t good enough to be much more than a top 10 pick. Some of them are being projected to other positions or playing their first year at a different position, especially if you already have a LT.

    1 Brandon Scherff 6-5 320 5.15 Iowa X/OG
    2 *Andrus Peat 6-6 315 5.25 Stanford
    3 La’el Collins 6-5 315 5.15 LSU OG
    4 *Ereck Flowers 6-5 325 5.3 Miami
    5 T.J. Clemmings 6-5 305 5.15 Pittsburgh

    All of these could be gone between about pick 8 to pick 20 something, Different teams will rate them in different orders. If the kid from ND had come out, he would have been a top 5. imo

    How would you rate the year overall for OL in general?

    Brandon Scherff
    Iowa offensive lineman Brandon Scherff is widely regarded as the top offensive line prospect in the 2015 NFL draft. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
    Print
    Nick Powell | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com By Nick Powell | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
    on January 06, 2015 at 5:30 PM, updated January 06, 2015 at 5:37 PM
    0

    Reddit

    Giants stock

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    The Giants will have a plethora of players to choose from with the ninth pick in this spring’s draft. But one position they might want to punt on in that spot is along the offensive line.

    ESPN’s draft expert Todd McShay told reporters in a conference call on Tuesday that teams looking for a top offensive line prospect at the top of the draft might end up disappointed. McShay said that the “sweet spot” in the draft for offensive linemen is more towards the bottom half of the first round and second round, where he feels the top available linemen would have more value.

    “I think there will be plenty of offensive linemen to get as long as you’re not picking somewhere in that top 10, top 15 and feel like you’re maybe reaching for one,” McShay said.

    As an example, McShay pointed to Iowa’s Brandon Scherff, an offensive tackle from the University of Iowa who he believes is the top offensive lineman in the draft. McShay gave Scherff a 92 grade, which is equivalent to a late first round pick (as a reference point, a 96-98 is a mid-to-early first round grade). But based on the offensive line needs of certain teams picking in the top 15, the Giants, arguably being one of them, McShay projected Scherff as the number 10 pick in his last mock draft. McShay also had Scherff as the eighth-highest rated prospect in this year’s draft.

    Scherff’s future position will also affect his draft value. McShay and many other draft observers feel that Scherff might be a better player at guard than at tackle, but guards are rarely taken in the top 10.

    The Giants likely will have a hole to fill at guard, especially if they move Weston Richburg to center, so it is not inconceivable that Scherff would be a prospect that they consider. After all, McShay compared Scherff to the Cowboys guard Zack Martin, who had a stellar rookie season, and was named to the Pro Bowl. The Giants were linked to Martin last spring with the 13th pick, but ultimately chose Odell Beckham Jr.

    But passing on an offensive lineman with their ninth pick obviously does not preclude the Giants from considering one in the later rounds. As McShay noted, there will be a handful of solid offensive linemen available in the second round. One name to watch will be Eric Flowers, a junior offensive tackle from Miami, who has not yet declared for the draft.

    “Eric Flowers from Miami, I think, is probably the most underrated offensive tackle if he winds up coming out,” McShay said. “An underclassmen that made real improvement at six foot six, 325 pounds this year. Smooth mover, good strength, I think his technique continues to get better, and I think he can be kind of a surprise in this class if he does come out.”

    McShay also mentioned Stanford’s Andrus Peat, Pittsburgh’s T.J. Clemmings, and LSU’s La’el Collins as three tackle prospects worthy of a second round pick. At guard, he pointed to A.J. Cann from South Carolina.

    As a draft strategy, the Giants usually look for the best player available rather than draft for need, so don’t expect them to reach for an offensive lineman with the ninth pick just because it would fill a hole. It is far more likely that they heed McShay’s advice and search for offensive line help later in the draft, and use their top pick at another position.
    http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2015/01/nfl_draft_2015_todd_mcshay_says_few_offensive_line_prospects_worthy_of_giants_top_10_pick.html

    That is a sample of what the draftniks think. I think you might not have the franchise LTs in this draft, but you have some decent LTs and more than average the number of decent offensive linemen. An excess of versatile linemen, but not an excess of guards or centers.

    Agamemnon

    #18374
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    PHil Savage starting 5 oline senior bowl

    http://www.seniorbowl.com/news-highlights-detail.php?news=286

    Executive Director Phil Savage spent 20 years in the National Football League as a coach, scout, executive and general manager. Prior to the Combine, he will evaluate the Reese’s Senior Bowl practice sessions, position-by-position, for both the North and South squads.

    Here is his analysis of the offensive linemen based on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday practices.

    ‘STARTING FIVE’

    With 20 total linemen on both squads, these are the five who had the best weeks at their respective positions and would deserve All-Senior Bowl recognition.

    DONOVAN SMITH PENN STATE 6056 341 34 1/4 10 1/2
    This 4th year junior graduate elevated his game in Mobile after having a subpar campaign in 2014. Although he could stand to drop 10lbs or so, he has size, athletic ability and the skillset needed to play left tackle in the NFL. With his long arms and re-direct agility, if he will truly get serious about his craft, Donovan could have a long pro career.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro: Wins: 7 Losses: 3
    Senior Bowl Scoop: Since 2013, 4th year juniors who graduate before December 31 have been allowed to participate in the game. Donovan and teammate Deion Barnes both met the criteria and joined a list of six total players that have taken advantage of this exemption. Donovan hails from Owings Mills, MD, the practice facility home of the Baltimore Ravens.

    TRE JACKSON FLORIDA STATE 6037 323 32 1/8 11 1/8
    Of the five FSU Seminoles invited to the RSB, Tre was the only one who actually made it to Mobile. He was “king” of the 1-on-1’s by winning all nine of his individual battles against zero defeats. Although he aligned as a RG at Florida State and for most of the week here, his athleticism may warrant a move to LG because of his pulling ability.
    1-on-1 Pass Pro: Wins: 9 Losses: 0Senior Bowl Scoop: Tre was selected as the South team’s Most Outstanding Player in the Saturday game after successfully going toe-to-toe with Washington’s Danny Shelton and Iowa’s Carl Davis.

    MAX GARCIA FLORIDA 6044 305 32 3/4 10 1/4
    In a rare occurrence, Max was part of the North team even though he played collegiately for the Gators after transferring from Maryland. He provides length in the pivot and plays with surprising base and balance for a taller center. With his position versatility of having starting experience at both left tackle and left guard, expect Max to be a valuable mid-to-late round selection.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro: Wins: 6 Losses: 2

    Senior Bowl Scoop: Max sat out the 2012 season due to NCAA transfer rules before starting 25 straight games for the Gators as a junior and senior.

    LAKEN TOMLINSON DUKE 6032 323 33 1/2 10 1/4
    This 5th year senior was a picture of consistency all week because of his knee flexion and upper body strength. He fits the profile of a “power” right guard and appears to be a plug-in and play starter as a rookie. His confrontations with Washington’s Danny Shelton (6016/343) were highlight worthy.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro: Wins: 9 Losses: 3

    Senior Bowl Scoop: The winner of the Alabama Power Practice Award for offensive linemen, Laken is also a standout in the classroom where he graduated as a double major in evolutionary anthropology and psychology.

    LA’EL COLLINS LSU 6045 308 33 1/4 10 3/4
    A consensus All-SEC and All-American choice in 2014, La’el has all the traits needed to be a blue-chip pro. He has height, long enough arms, a powerful punch and the ability to snap his hips. He went back and forth between LT and LG and didn’t look flawless as a RT, however, he has too much going for him from a talent standpoint not to play early and often for a team in need of a young offensive lineman.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro- Wins: 4 Losses: 7

    Senior Bowl Scoop: Highly recruited five-star prospect from Baton Rouge, he was considered by many to be the best high school offensive lineman to ever come out of the state of Louisiana. La’el won the Jacobs Award for the SEC, spotlighting him as the league’s top blocker.

    POTENTIAL ‘STARTER’ UPSIDE

    OT #68 T.J. Clemmings/Pittsburgh 6045/307 34 7/8” Arm-10 3/8” Hand

    A favorite of the NFL scouts during the regular season, T.J. entered the week with much fanfare as a potential 1st round pick. He only played two years of high school football and did not move to the offensive line until his redshirt junior (2013) season. Still, he has all the physical traits necessary to become a starter in the future. With his long arms, natural athletic skill and positive demeanor, despite looking uncomfortable on certain reps, T.J. flashed more than enough ability for teams to believe they can coach him up as a possible answer at left tackle.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro- Wins: 5 Losses: 7

    Senior Bowl Scoop: First team All-ACC selection in 2014 after starting 26 consecutive games at right tackle.

    OG #50 Ali Marpet/Hobart College 6036/307 32 7/8” Arm-10 1/8” Hand

    The only D-III prospect in the RSB, Ali started for three seasons at left tackle before making the conversion inside to guard in Mobile. He has light feet, plays with balance and did not back down at all against the bigger school competition. Arguably the most intriguing player in the game, he is certain to be thoroughly evaluated by all 32 teams because of his position flexibility (he took reps as a center in the QB exchange period) and high ceiling to improve.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro- Wins: 5 Losses: 5
    Senior Bowl Scoop: Ali was named Liberty League Co-Offensive Player of the Year, the first time in conference history an offensive lineman received that distinction.

    BLUE COLLAR/LUNCH PAIL PROSPECTS

    OT #78 Rob Havenstein/Wisconsin 6073/332 33 5/8” Arm-10” Hand

    A card-carrying giant, Rob is a classic right tackle who uses his height and girth to absorb and control defenders. He really understands how to play and wins “ugly” most of the time.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro- Wins: 6 Losses: 4

    Senior Bowl Scoop: Rob opened 41 consecutive games for the Badgers and played in a school-record matching 54 contests. He blocked for three 1000-yard rushers during his career: Montee Ball, James White and Melvin Gordon.

    OG #70 Shaq Mason/Georgia Tech 6015/310 31 1/8” Arm-9 ½” Hand

    Maybe the most improved player of the week, Shaq came to Mobile from GT’s option-oriented offense, but adjusted quite well by Thursday and showed the willingness to compete on every snap.

    1-on-1 Pass Pro- Wins: 6 Losses: 3

    Senior Bowl Scoop: Even though Shaq stands a little over 6’1, his given full name is “Shaquille Olajuwon Mason”. The Yellow Jackets led the nation in rushing yardage per game (342.1) and Shaq was named to several All-ACC and All-American teams.

    #18375
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    LAKEN TOMLINSON
    This 5th year senior was a picture of consistency all week because of his knee flexion and upper body strength. He fits the profile of a “power” right guard and appears to be a plug-in and play starter as a rookie. His confrontations with Washington’s Danny Shelton (6016/343) were highlight worthy.

    ……….Laken is also a standout in the classroom where he graduated as a double major in evolutionary anthropology and psychology.

    He might be a player that could be a good center. imo

    Agamemnon

    #18377
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    Isn’t it possible that a lot of the tackles here could be selected as guards?

    Like Dennis Harrah was.

    #18387
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon

    #18390
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Isn’t it possible that a lot of the tackles here could be selected as guards?

    Like Dennis Harrah was.

    I would select La’el Collins and figure that he plays guard. I do think that he can play better LT than Robinson will play next year, although Robinson will end up being the better LT. I see Collins and a lot of these tackles the same way I look at Saffold. They can play LT, but maybe they would be a better player at a different position.

    Agamemnon

    #18392
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    SD, mind if I move this to the combine thread?

    #18393
    sdram
    Participant

    Not at all. I missed the combine thread.

    #18395
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    Done. a

    #18396
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    RamBill dug this up….

    Phil Savage ‏@SeniorBowlPhil

    Had an unbelievably impressive interview with Duke OG Laken Tomlinson @SiriusXMNFL. Double major, 323lbs and future NFL starter.

    #18403
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon

    #18404
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon

    #18405
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon

    #18406
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Agamemnon

    #18409
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    OT: This is a deep and solid group, but the closest guys to having elite potential are Underclassmen who still have much to learn. CLEMMINGS demonstrated that with a poor/mediocre Senior Bowl showing. Some would argue that both SCHERFF & COLLINS might be better fits at OG in the pro game.
    BRANDON SCHERFF/IOWA
    ERECK FLOWERS/MIAMI*
    ANDRUS PEAT/STANFORD*
    LA’EL COLLINS/LSU
    T.J. CLEMMINGS/PITT
    CEDRIC OGBUEHI/TEXAS A&M#

    C/G This is a deeper group than many years, but lacking in top end talent. CANN might make it late in Round 1, but that would be it.
    A.J. CANN/SOUTH CAROLINA
    TRE’ JACKSON/FLORIDA STATE
    CAMERON ERVING/C/FLORIDA STATE
    LAKEN TOMLINSON/DUKE
    HRONISS GRASU/C/OREGON

    http://gbnreport.com/pigskin-pauls-top-5-position/

    As I prepare to do my first MOCK ROUND 1, let me say that I will only have about 22-25 players overall who I would consider to be Round 1 talents from the ranks above. Depth is almost as good as last year, but the elite, skill position player count is down.

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photoAgamemnon.

    Agamemnon

    #18440
    Avatar photozn
    Moderator

    Ag I think I will keep the independent 101/Lande…or would you rather have it here? LMK

    #18441
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Ag I think I will keep the independent 101/Lande…or would you rather have it here? LMK

    Go ahead and delete this one. I posted it before I saw yours.

    Agamemnon

    #18658
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photoAgamemnon.

    Agamemnon

    #18662
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    La’el Collins’ NFL Draft Breakdown

    By
    John Owning

    on
    December 12, 2014

    The quarterback is the most important player on any team. He is the player whose performance on the field has the biggest bearing on the result of a game; therefore, the players assigned to protect the quarterback are vital as well.

    This is why there is such a high premium placed on left tackles as they protect a right-handed quarterback’s blindside and generally face the best pass-rushers in the NFL, even though it is becoming more common for teams to place their best rusher on the right to create a mismatch.

    However, It is exceedingly difficult to find quality offensive linemen, especially left tackles. One reason is “the planet theory” or that there are only so many people on the planet that are big enough and skilled enough to play offensive line at a high level in the NFL. It takes an enormous amount of skill and technique to be able to succeed in the trenches as an offensive lineman.

    On nearly every single play, an offensive lineman is at an athletic deficit as defensive linemen may be the most athletic players in the NFL given their size. The only way for an offensive lineman to compensate for this deficit in athleticism is to master the techniques and nuances of offensive line play.

    One of the top prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft who hopes to fill that scarcity of quality offensive tackles in the NFL is LSU offensive tackle La’el Collins who just won the coveted SEC Jacobs Blocking trophy for being the best offensive lineman in the SEC. Collins is a massive man as he is listed at 6-foot-5 and 321 pounds with what appears to be long arms.

    Collins has been extremely productive, as he has had 219 knockdowns in 2,482 career snaps. This means he knocks down an opposing defender on 11.3 percent or one out of every 11 snaps he is on the field, which is a truly staggering number.

    Despite that fact, it is impossible to tell how good an offensive lineman is based on stats since there are just not many of them out there.

    Therefore, let’s take a look Collins’ tape and see if he deserves the label of a first-round pick.

    Collins’ first trait that jumps out on film is his initial punch. Collins may have the strongest punch out of the entire draft-eligible offensive lineman in the draft. The purpose of an initial punch is to redirect or severely limit the defensive lineman’s force or momentum.

    This play is a great example of La’el’s great punch:

    Collins is lined up at the left tackle with a tight end to his left with a defensive end slightly shaded to his outside. After the ball is snapped, Collins takes a 45-degree lead step to his left. He remains balanced as he moves to his left with his hand cocked and ready to fire. He then fires his hands inside, which jolts the defensive end’s pads and creates a ton of movement at the line of scrimmage. He gets great arm extension and pushes the defensive end back two yards with his punch alone.

    The ability to create this much movement with his punch alone is extremely rare among offensive lineman in today’s game. Last year, Greg Robinson was able to create movement with his punch alone and Collins follow in his footsteps with this exceptional trait this year. When offensive linemen can create movement like the play above, it leads to huge holes that any running back can run through.

    The next trait that Collins exemplifies is leg drive. Once an offensive lineman engages at the point of attack with a defender they must keep their feet moving to generate the necessary amount of force to move the opposing defender. In a base drive or “power” block, an offensive lineman’s first step his his lead step, while his second is his attack step, which engages him with the defender. The only way for the offensive lineman to finish the block is to keep his feet moving through the contact or all his prior steps and punch will be wasted.

    Here is a great example of Collins’ great leg drive:

    Once again, Collins is lined up at left tackle with a tight end to his left. However, this time Dante Fowler, one of the best defensive ends in college football, is lined up shaded to his outside. After the snap, Collins takes a slight lead step with his left foot followed by an attack step with his right foot. Fowler does a great job getting off the ball quickly, which limits Collins’ ability to get a good initial punch. This initially causes a stalemate at the line of scrimmage. However, Collins drives his feet at the point of attack, while Fowler doesn’t, which allows him create a ton of movement as he pushes Fowler four yards off the line of scrimmage.

    Collins’ strength, punch and leg drive allow him to dominate in drive or power blocks in a man-blocking scheme. However, it also manifests itself when he performs zone blocks as well. While La’el does a better job of moving vertically in the run game, he displays enough lateral mobility and foot speed to execute blocks on any outside zone or stretch plays.

    Here is an example of Collins’ performing a reach block on an outside zone run:

    Collins is at the left tackle position with a tight end to his left and in a three-point stance as a defensive end is lined up head up on him. After the snap, he executes a slide step to his left, which allows him to gain leverage on the defensive end. Then, he does a great job of getting his outside hand on the outside number of the defensive end with his punch that jolts the defender. He does an excellent job of driving his feet through the contact and turning the defender to give his running back a clear lane to run through.

    Collins not only does great work at dominating opposing defenders at the line of scrimmage, but he is surprisingly adept at blocking in space for someone his size. Most massive offensive linemen look awkward moving in space, but Collins looks relatively smooth when you compare him with them. Collins doesn’t move as smoothly as some of the smaller, athletic tackles like Ty Sambrailo, but he is smooth enough to get the job done. Collins shows great mental processing in space as well. He does a great job of deciphering where and who to block in space and the best way to do it.

    This is a great example of Collins working to the second level and blocking in space:

    Collins is again at the left tackle position with a tight end to his left; however, on this play he is not covered by a defensive lineman. After the snap, the Collins takes a lead step with his right foot to perform a combination block on the defensive tackle with the left guard. As the seal blocker, his job is to hit the defender, so that the guard can perform his block, and to work to the second level and block the weak-side linebacker. Collins comes down and gets a great push, which knocks the defensive tackle down and basically eliminates him from the play. Collins then works to the second level and turns his head toward the linebacker on the weak side. Collins gets in range and performs a powerful punch that jolts the linebacker back a yard and give the running back room to get a sizable gain.

    Collins has shown all the traits to be a dominant run-blocker in the NFL. However, offensive tackles in the NFL aren’t paid to be run-blockers, they are paid to be great in pass protection. While Collins thrives in run blocking, he is no slouch in pass protection either.

    Collins does a good job of getting out of his stance and into his pass set where he can mirror defenders extremely well. In the SEC, he has faced a number of premier edge rushers, like Alvin “Bud” Dupree, Dante Fowler and Preston Smith, and he has done exceptionally well.

    This play showcases Collins’ ability to mirror his opponents:

    On this play, La’el is lined up at the left tackle in a two-point stance with Dante Fowler lined up as an outside linebacker opposite him. After the snap, Collins does a fantastic job of pushing off his inside foot and into his kick slide as Fowler explodes of the ball. Collins stays balanced in his kick slide and doesn’t give Fowler a decent route to the quarterback. He stays patient and executes a great punch, which eliminates any opportunity for Fowler to generate pressure.

    Even though the above play was a quick pass, it still shows the traits that allow Collins to thrive in pass protection. He gets into his kick slide quickly and balanced and stays square to the line of scrimmage so that Fowler doesn’t have an opportunity for an inside counter move.

    The last trait that makes Collins an exemplary offensive tackle prospect is his strong hands. Once he gets his hands on defenders its over, as it is extremely difficult to disengage off Collins’ strong grips.

    This play showcases Collins’ strong hands:

    LSU is lined up in an unbalanced left formation. Therefore, Collins is lined as the left tackle with one tackle and a tight end to his left (he is the second person from the left of the center). After the snap, Collins performs a soft kick slide as he pushes off his inside foot and takes a short jab step backwards at a 45-degree angle to his left. Once Alvin Dupree (No. 2) gets in range, Collins shoots his hands inside and grabs Dupree’s breastplate. Dupree tries as hard as he can to disengage off Collins, but he can’t, which results in Dupree flailing around as Collins easily controls him.

    While Collins is an upper-echelon tackle prospect, he does have one fundamental flaw in his game that he will need to fix. The one area where Collins doesn’t make his blocks or where he gets beat are where he overextends or gets his weight over his toes. This leads to Collins losing balance and ending up on the ground far too often.

    Here is an example of Collins overextending:

    f

    Collins is again lined up at the left tackle position with a tight end to his left. After the snap, Collins takes a slide step to his left to try to perform a get to the outside of the defensive end and turn him. However, Collins lunges at the defensive end and gets his pads over his toes, which allows the defensive end to easily execute a swim move over Collins who gets completely off balanced and falls to the ground.

    Collins first punch is so good that sometimes he gets too eager to fire it off at defender, which causes him to lunge and loose his balance. If Collins overextends at the next level, he will get beat badly by the elite pass rushers he will face.

    Overall, Collins’ skill set best fits on a team that employs a power-running scheme where Collins can fire off the ball, move forward and dominate his man. Nevertheless, Collins has the ability to do a great job for a team that uses a zone-blocking scheme, but it would be utilizing him to the best of his ability. Collins would best be served as a right tackle initially as he cleans up some of his flaws in year one; before he is moved over to the left tackle position in year two or three just like the Dallas Cowboys did with Tyron Smith.

    In a league that is in desperate need of quality offensive lineman, La’el Collins may be the first one off the board when April 30th rolls around.

    Projection: Round 1

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photoAgamemnon.
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    2015 NFL Draft Outlook Note: written from a Green Bay perspective

    By Bob McGinn

    http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/2015-nfl-draft-outlook-b99448618z1-293321531.html

    Based on interviews with executives in personnel for five teams, it is possible to narrow down just a little bit the pool of players that might be considered by the Green Bay Packers regardless of position if they exercise their current 30th selection in the first round of the NFL draft April 30.

    Prospects are conservatively divided into three categories: As Good As Gone — barring negative developments, these players have virtually no chance of reaching No. 30; Probably Gone — players who appear to have no better than a 50-50 chance of remaining on the board at No. 30; and The Next Level — players who figure to fall next.

    The Packers have their own selection in all seven rounds. They’re also likely to be awarded at least one compensatory pick next month for the losses of center Evan Dietrich-Smith (Tampa Bay) and wide receiver James Jones (Oakland).

    Here’s an early look at 55 players who figure to fit into these layers of the draft (underclassmen are denoted by asterisk).

    AS GOOD AS GONE (10)

    Amari Cooper*, WR, Alabama: 6-1, 211. In 2014, he broke the Southeastern Conference single-season record for receptions (124) and was second all-time in receiving yards (1,727). “Dynamic player,” one scout said. “Quick, fast, agile, good hands. Difference-maker.” Third-year junior with 228 receptions for 3,463 yards (15.2) and 31 TDs. “One of the better route runners to come out in a long, long time,” another scout said. “Very skilled, explosive and fast.” On Saturday, he ran 40 yards in 4.42 seconds.

    Kevin White, WR, West Virginia: 6-3, 215. Junior-college player for two years. “He’s more of a Larry Fitzgerald-type receiver in that he doesn’t have great speed,” said one scout. “I never see him beat people deep. But if he is even with them he’s going to get the ball. Very good player.” Caught 35 passes in 2013 for Mountaineers before breaking out with 109 for 1,447 yards (13.3) and 10 TDs in ’14. “He’s got another level to his game that I don’t think we’ve seen yet,” another scout said. Admits that he loves trash-talking opponents. Made a ton of money with 40 time of 4.35.

    Brandon Scherff, T, Iowa: 6-4 1/2, 319. Part-time starter at LG as a redshirt freshman in 2011 before starting at LT from 2012-’14. “I like (Bryan) Bulaga, but I think this guy is better,” said one scout. “I didn’t think Bulaga could play left tackle, but I think this guy can. Everybody thinks he’s the best guard, but I’d keep him at tackle and have him disprove he can’t play there. He got hurt early last year and never missed a practice or a game.” Like Bulaga, his arm length (33 3/8 inches) will be an issue for some teams. Massive hands (11 inches). “Real tough guy and can really run,” another scout said. “Good technician. Little stiff. Kind of straight-line. Not real good change of direction. But when he gets you he mauls you. This guy is a lot stronger than Bulaga. He’s tight and can’t use his length. I think guard will be his best position.” His 40-yard dash time was 5.05.

    Andrus Peat*, T, Stanford: 6-7, 313. Third-year junior rotated at LT in 2012 before starting the past two years. “He’s the most talented (O-lineman),” one scout said. “His dad was really talented but fat. The dad was probably 6-2.” Todd Peat was a squatty guard for the Cardinals and Raiders from 1987-’93. “Ready-made NFL player,” another scout said. “Left tackle or right tackle. Little bit like Jake Matthews. He won’t be an overly dominating type athlete but just sound. Bigger than Jake. A very good, solid player, no question about it.” Arms were 34 3/8, hands were 10 5/8.

    Marcus Mariota*, QB, Oregon: 6-3½, 222. Heisman Trophy winner in 2014. “Kid’s a good athlete,” one scout said. “I kind of like him. But he’s not a passer right now. He’s a thrower. He’s like a better Colin Kaepernick. Not that there’s anything wrong with it, but this kid is kind of quiet. He’s going to be a project the first year. But, other than Andrew Luck, all those guys are.” Finished with a phenomenal NFL passer rating of 121.3, and also rushed for 2,237 yards (6.6) and 29 TDs. “You know he’ll put the time in to be a good pro,” said another scout. “That’s about as big an obstacle as there is at the position: guys that are willing to put in the time.” Hands were 9 7/8. Vertical jump of 36 inches. Ran 4.52.

    Jameis Winston*, QB, Florida State: 6-3½, 231. Led Seminoles to national championship in 2013 and won the Heisman Trophy. “Has an uncanny ability to know what’s around him and get himself out of trouble,” one scout said. Finished with NFL passer rating of 107.9, and also rushed for 284 yards (2.0) and seven TDs. Has had numerous run-ins with the legal system. “Someone will take him in the first round, but how could you even let that guy in the building?” another scout said. “The second law of thermodynamics basically is the more ways something can happen, the more likely it is to happen. That’s true of players. The more ways they can (expletive) up, the more chances they (expletive) up. This guy’s got a lot of stuff that would lean him more likely to be a bust than a good player.” Played two seasons of baseball at FSU as a closer-outfielder. “If he doesn’t (mature) he won’t be playing football,” a third scout said. “Knows how to play the position. I don’t think he’s Andrew Luck. He’s not a John Elway arm coming out, but he’s a talented kid.” Tested poorly with 4.97 40, 28½ vertical jump.

    Melvin Gordon*, RB, Wisconsin: 6-1, 215. Finished second in Heisman Trophy voting as fourth-year junior. “Unique runner,” one scout said. “He’s got a little bit of Jamaal Charles in him. Upright, fast runner. He’s quick and has very good feet.” Surpassed 100 yards in 22 of his 45 games. Also fumbled six times in his last five games. “He’s good, but against those slow (expletive) Big Ten guys,” said another scout. “That’s what bothers me a little bit.” Played at Kenosha Bradford. Ran 4.52.

    Leonard Williams*, DT, Southern California: 6-4½, 302. Nicknamed “Big Cat.” “Probably the most talented player on the defensive side of the ball,” said one scout. “He’s an end and a three-technique. He’s quick, strong and plays athletic.” Has been compared to former Patriot Richard Seymour. Dominating presence for three seasons, finishing with 21 sacks and 36½ tackles for loss. “He’s not a gigantic guy,” another scout said. “He’s not (Ndamukong) Suh. He’s athletic. He moves around good. He played inside and was getting doubled and held and everything else.”

    Randy Gregory*, OLB-DE, Nebraska: 6-5, 235. Played two years of junior college and two seasons at Nebraska, where he piled up 17½ sacks and 29 tackles for loss. “I think he’s better than Ziggy Ansah,” one scout said. “He’ll be pretty good. I think he could stand up, too.” Sidelined for two games and playing sparingly in two others last season due to injury. “He’s a run-around guy,” another scout said. “Athletic. Can chase things down. I can’t see him playing the point real well. He’s not that big. (Wisconsin’s Rob) Havenstein did a hell of a job against him.”

    Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson: 6-3, 246. Fifth-year senior. “He’s a rusher,” one scout said. “He’s a better football player right now than (Shaq) Thompson. “He’s just running around being an athlete. If you played him as a 4-3 ‘will’ (weak-side LB) you’d take away what he does best. He can really run. He understands leverage. They don’t crush him.” Two-year starter with 33 sacks and 52½ tackles for loss.

    PROBABLY GONE (8)

    DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville: 6-2½, 209. Hauled in 156 passes for 2,775 yards (17.8) and 33 TDs in four seasons. “He’s a large, smooth, play-making receiver who has average speed,” said one scout. “Very good hands. Has run after the catch.” Dogged by injuries as a senior. “He’s got size, speed and was dominating at the end of the season,” said another scout. “He looks a little faster than (Kevin) White.” Ran 4.45.

    Ereck Flowers*, T, Miami: 6-6, 329. Third-year junior. “Big frame, good technician, good with his hands, good bulk and anchor,” one scout said. “Has ability to hold up against power rushes but also can handle speed. Physically and athletically, probably more of a right tackle in the NFL.” Started 2½ years at LT. Arms were 34½. Led O-line with 37 bench-press reps.

    Arik Armstead*, DE, Oregon: 6-7, 292. Three-year player didn’t start until 2014. “He plays like a man,” said one scout. “Can be a five-technique. Damn right he has pass rush. Really a good player.” Finished with 10 sacks. “A little bit like Datone Jones but much taller and bigger,” said another scout. “Same kind of player. He has the athleticism but production has been minimal. When you’re a really tall player you have to have either really good strength or play with really good technique and fundamentals. He doesn’t have either yet. He plays hard. He’s got the ability. It’s just not totally there yet. He’s going to be a rusher on the inside.”

    Mario Edwards*, DE, Florida State: 6-3, 279. Registered 7½ sacks in three seasons, including two as a starter. “Still kind of a project,” one scout said. “Big athletic guy. Just didn’t have much production or feel as a rusher. You hope he’d be a better rusher to take him in the first round but he’s got size and is athletic.” Father, Mario, played cornerback for the Cowboys after being drafted in the sixth round (2000). Also played some LB and FB. “Huge D-end but could even bounce inside and rush as a three-technique,” another scout said. “Very, very strong upper body. Plays the run extremely well but also can rush the passer.” Huge hands (10 7/8).

    Shane Ray*, DE, Missouri: 6-3, 245. Declared a year early after being named Southeastern Conference defensive player of the year. “Tough, fast,” one scout said. “He’s better than the guy (Kony Ealy) from there last year. Little straight-line.” Posted a school-record 14½ sacks in 2014 to go with 22½ tackles for loss. “I don’t like him,” said another scout. “People see who he is, they’re going to fall off him quick. The body structure. No way in hell he can be an outside backer. Competitive, smart and reliable. Wins with effort, urgency and great first step. He has a degree of stiffness. He’s got to win with quickness because of his lack of size and strength.” Tiny hands (9).

    Danny Shelton, NT, Washington: 6-1, 339. Three-year starter with 208 tackles (24 for loss) and 11½ sacks, including 9 as a senior. “True nose tackle,” one scout said. “Big body. Big noses go (early).” Another scout said Shelton moved as well as Green Bay’s B.J. Raji. Patterns his game after Baltimore’s Haloti Ngata. Dominated at the Senior Bowl.

    Eddie Goldman*, DT, Florida State: 6-4, 336. Third-year junior. “He’s a powerful, explosive guy,” one scout said. “Strong at the point.” Two-year starter with 62 tackles (12 for loss) and 6 sacks. “Three-technique,” another scout said. “He can do it all. Plays hard.”

    Dante Fowler*, OLB, Florida: 6-3, 261. Third-year junior, two-year starter. “Played on a very average football team but stood out,” one scout said. “You saw offenses (slide) his way. Double-teaming and chipping. Definitely a pass rusher first. He has the athleticism and skill to play outside linebacker.” Voted team MVP in 2014 after registering 8½ of his 14½ career sacks. “Probably has to be an outside backer for a 3-4 team,” another scout said. “Edge guy. He’s got those first two steps.”

    THE NEXT LEVEL (37)

    Devin Funchess*, WR-TE, Michigan: 6-4, 232. Enrolled as a WR, played 2012-’13 as a TE and went back to WR last year as a third-year junior. “He’s a wide receiver,” one scout said. “He’s not physical enough as an inside blocker. He’ll be like a hybrid player. He drops a lot of balls.” Terrific high school basketball player in Michigan; declined invitation as a freshman to double as a basketball player. “Not crazy about him,” said another scout. “He won’t block. He’s got good hands but he drops balls. He can’t play tight end. He’ll get drafted high, too high for me.” Disappointing 40 of 4.70.

    Jaelen Strong*, WR, Arizona State: 6-2, 217. Junior-college transfer caught 157 passes for 2,287 yards (14.6) and 17 TDs in two seasons for Sun Devils. “(Plays) like his last name,” said one scout. “Average to above-average speed. He’ll probably play early. His ceiling isn’t high, but he’s going to be a good, solid, starting wide receiver with good hands. Physical frame. Really good field awareness. Very good in the red zone. Just not a stretch-the-field vertical receiver. More of a short to intermediate type.” Ran surprisingly fast (4.44).

    Dorial Green-Beckham*, WR, Oklahoma: 6-5, 237. “He’s the wild card of all of them,” said one scout. “He’s a first-round talent, no question. He may even be better than (Amari) Cooper. He’s that talented. But is there a team that will take a chance on him there?” Kicked out of Missouri after drug-related issues, transferred to Oklahoma but wasn’t eligible in 2014. Started 15 of 25 games at Mizzou, catching 87 passes for 1,278 yards (14.7) and 17 TDs. Ran 4.49.

    Nelson Agholar*, WR, Southern California: 6-0, 198. Third-year junior coming off 2014 season in which he caught 104 passes for 1,313 yards (12.6) and 12 TDs. “Very similar to Marquise Lee,” one scout said. “Slender build. Good speed, not special speed. Good hands. Probably will make his mark early as a returner. He can line up in all the spots inside and outside.” Returned four punts for TDs. Ran 4.42.

    Devin Smith, WR, Ohio State: 6-0½, 196. Consummate deep threat. “A vertical receiver,” one scout said. “That’s where he’s at his best. Hands are average. Route running was average. But a really good stretch-the-field vertical type. Probably not as fast as (Miami’s) Mike Wallace.” Three-year starter with 121 receptions for 2,503 yards (20.7) and 30 TDs; his 33 catches in 2014 averaged an astounding 28.2 (12 TDs). Ran 4.42.

    Sammie Coates*, WR, Auburn: 6-1, 212. Fourth-year junior. “Once he runs fast they’re all going to drool over him,” one scout said of his fellow personnel men. “I’m not on board. He’s a large, explosive, stiff, inconsistent guy with big hands. I wouldn’t touch him, but I think he goes late second (round).” Finished with 82 receptions for 1,757 yards (21.8) and 13 TDs. Labored on a bad knee in 2014. Ran 4.43.

    Maxx Williams*, TE, Minnesota: 6-4, 249. Third-year sophomore with 61 catches for 986 yards (16.2) and 13 TDs. “He’s one of those guys that jumps over people and stiff-arms,” said one scout. “Real good hands. He blocks downfield and can get on linebackers. He’ll (block) better in-line.” His father, Brian, also played for the Gophers and generally started at center for the Giants from 1989-’99. “I would not put him in the category of an athlete like Jimmy Graham or someone like that,” another scout said. “You’re not talking about a dominating type player. Need at the position and lack of players there could move him up to the top of the second (round). If he’s bottom of the first round it’s an overreach.” Ran 4.78.

    La’el Collins, T-G, Louisiana State: 6-4 1/2, 305. Started at LG in 2012 and at LT the past two seasons. “I think he has to move to guard,” one scout said. “Big and strong. His effort wanes at times.” Voted team MVP in 2014. Impressive week at the Senior Bowl. “Very talented, athletic,” another scout said. “Good size, good strength and a lot of production. Really effective at guard.” Arms were just 33¼.

    T.J. Clemmings, T, Pittsburgh: 6-4 1/2, 309. Spent three seasons at DE (six starts in 2012) before starting at RT in 2013-’14. “An athlete first,” said one scout. “He has the athleticism to start. Just going to take a little bit of time. Still developing his technique, fundamentals and understanding the position.” Long arms (35 1/8). Scored 15 on the Wonderlic intelligence test. Turned down offers to play basketball at Providence and Seton Hall.

    Cameron Erving, T, Florida State: 6-5, 313. Fifth-year senior moved from D-line to O-line in spring 2012. “He’s athletic,” said one scout. “Not a very good technician. Still learning the position.” Three-year starter at LT but forced to start the last five games at center in 2014. Arms were 34 1/8. “He’s a lot like Collins,” another scout said. “He could be a left tackle, center or guard. Very versatile second-round pick.”

    D.J. Humphries*, T, Florida: 6-5, 307. Third-year junior. “He’s a smaller guy who has gotten bigger each year,” one scout said. “He’ll still need to continue adding weight and growth. He lacks anchor on bull rushes and isn’t going to generate a lot of movement with his drive blocks.” Missed half of the 2013 season with a knee injury and two games in ’14 with an ankle injury. “Talented kid,” another scout said. Arms were 33 5/8.

    A.J. Cann, G, South Carolina: 6-3, 313. Started 51 games at LG. “He has size, length, mass, toughs and he’s competitive,” said one scout. “He’ll need a little bit of work in pass pro, and the mental part will scare you a little bit.” Two-time captain. Arms were just 32 5/8. “Second round probably,” another scout said. “Good player. He’s got enough strength and he can move, too.”

    Laken Tomlinson, G, Duke: 6-3 1/2, 323. Really helped himself during Senior Bowl week. “He’s a big, square, flexible athlete,” one scout said. “He’s got good movement. He needs to work on his technique and balance.” Four-year starter at guard. Arms were 33 5/8.

    Donovan Smith*, T, Penn State: 6-6, 338. Fourth-year junior. “Big guy who is more athletic than his peers,” one scout said. “He has to work through some natural laziness.” Started for three years at LT. Arms were 34 3/8. “Looked good in the Senior Bowl,” one scout said. “Now he’s got to get through the interviews. He’s kind of a different kid. Not bad. Just different.”

    Cedric Ogbuehi, T, Texas A&M: 6-5, 306. Started for 3½ years, including both tackles and guard. Followed Luke Joeckel and Jake Matthews at LT in 2014. Suffered a torn ACL in third quarter of a bowl game and had surgery about five weeks ago. “He did everything as well as those two (Joeckel, Matthews),” one scout said. Arms were 35 7/8. He still has hopes of being drafted in the first round and playing this season. “He is really talented but soft and doesn’t play very strong,” another scout said. “I’ve been in there three years in a row and have never seen him practice. Guy’s always hurt.”

    Brett Hundley*, QB, UCLA: 6-3, 226. Three-year starter redshirted in 2011. “The physical tools are there,” one scout said. “He’s going to need time. He’s going to have to go to a team that will need to have patience with him and just continue teaching him the game. A team at the top of the second (round) that needs a quarterback might throw him to the fire too early, and he’s not ready for that.” Operating a zone-read offense similar to the Eagles’, his NFL passer rating was 103.7. He also rushed for 1,747 yards (3.6) and 30 TDs. Idolizes Donovan McNabb. “I don’t think he can mentally process,” another scout said. “His arm and talent are OK. He’s got a lot of flaws in his game.” Ran 4.63.

    T.J. Yeldon*, RB, Alabama: 6-1, 226. Shared carries with Eddie Lacy in 2012 before taking on the featured role the past two years. “He’s different than Lacy,” one scout said. “Lacy’s more power. This guy can run with power, but he also has some moves. I’d take Lacy over him. Only question I have on Yeldon, is he beat to hell and back? All those guys down there (Alabama) get beat up.” Carried 576 times for 3,322 yards (5.8) and 37 TDs, and caught 46 passes. “He’ll go right around 30, 35,” said another scout. “He and Gordon will fight for first back. He probably has the best feet of any back in the draft.” Ran just 4.61.

    Todd Gurley*, RB, Georgia: 6-1, 222. Suffered a torn ACL Nov. 15 but expressed confidence he would play in 2015. “That guy is good,” said one scout. “He’s a man among boys. If you’re a deep team why wouldn’t you take a bona fide Pro Bowl back and just shelve him?” Finished with 510 carries for 3,306 yards (6.5) and 36 TDs, and also caught 65 passes. Won’t be 21 until August. “You’re talking about a running back that you will never see run (the 40),” said another scout. “You know he’s fast. You see it on film. The second combine (medical) recheck will be very important for him. He’s a top-10 talent, but he could easily go outside the first round because there’s a lot of backs in this draft.”

    Jay Ajayi*, RB, Boise State: 6-0, 221. Fourth-year junior. “Big back with very good speed,” one scout said. “Really came on at the end of the year. He’s just a guy that runs hard. Very physical.” Carried 678 times for 3,796 yards (5.6) and 55 TDs. Ran 4.57.

    Jeremy Langford, RB, Michigan State: 6-0, 208. Redshirted, then carried just nine times in 2011-’12 behind Le’Veon Bell. “He’s not Le’Veon Bell,” said one scout. “He’s a step below. But he can run, catch and do everything well. I’d take him over (Indiana’s) Tevin Coleman because he makes NFL runs. He has to pick and show vision and contact balance. When you spread out all over the damn field and they pitch you the ball and you pick a running lane (as Coleman did), that’s a little different (easier).” Carried 568 times in 2013-’14, gaining 2,944 yards and 40 TDs. Led all RBs with 40 time of 4.42.

    Alvin “Bud” Dupree, DE-OLB, Kentucky: 6-3½, 269. Started 36 of 45 games at both end and linebacker. “Very good athlete,” one scout said. “Has played both up and down. As he’s gotten better the defense has gotten better. Pass rusher. Great kid. He can be a physical player.” Finished with 21½ sacks. “Athletic, but he’s got no instincts,” another scout said. “I just don’t think he’s real smart.” Scored 13 on the Wonderlic. Extremely soft-spoken.

    Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: 6-3, 267. Fifth-year senior who sat out all 2013 after undergoing hip surgery. “Kid’s got instincts and agility and strong hands,” one scout said. “Question is, how much bigger is he going to get? He wins with power.” His father, Peter, is serving three life sentences for a triple homicide shooting at Appalachian School of Law (Va.) in 2002. “Really athletic,” another scout said. “Tough. Just doesn’t have great instincts.” Huge hands (11).

    Danielle Hunter*, DE-OLB, Louisiana State: 6-5, 252. Third-year junior. “LSU has these type players every couple years,” said one scout. “Barkevious Mingo was one. Really tall and long. Looks like a football player. He will run like a deer. Hasn’t had consistency of production yet. He was a 1½-sack guy this year, but that’s kind of been the norm. Mingo came out (early) and had 6 sacks and went top 10 (in 2013). Hunter is that type of player.” Two-year starter with 4½ sacks.

    Malcom Brown*, DT, Texas: 6-2, 319. Started two of three seasons. “Typical Texas guy,” said one scout. “Has talent but little bit of an underachiever. He has more ability than he’s showing. He can be a three-technique or a shade. Has some upside.” Last season, he became the first Longhorn DT since Tony Degrate in 1984 to lead the team in both sacks (6½) and tackles for loss (15).

    Jordan Phillips*, DT, Oklahoma: 6-5, 329. Started four games in 2013 before suffering a back injury that required surgery. Came back to start all 13 in ’14 before declaring early. “He has a bad back,” said one scout. “He has quickness and he can run, but he plays so damn high and he cannot get off a block. It could be back-related. If that’s not an issue, he has something that you can’t coach, and that’s physical talent. I think he’s tough enough. He’s just not a good player. He does not dominate. He’s not effective. That bothers me. Character-wise, everything’s positive about him.” Finished with 58 tackles (nine for loss) and 3½ sacks.

    Carl Davis, DT, Iowa: 6-4½, 320. Fifth-year senior and two-year starter. “He has some ability, but he’s lazy,” one scout said. “He was off the field (late in the season) on passing downs and didn’t seem real upset about it. Nice kid.” Played extremely well in the Senior Bowl. “He plays like he is, a nice guy,” said another scout. “Never finishes things. He has talent but wasn’t very consistent. His character is impeccable. He’ll get drafted pretty high, but he scares the hell out of me.” Massive hands (11).

    Michael Bennett, DT, Ohio State: 6-2, 293. Two-year starter with 18 sacks and 31½ tackles for loss. “His true position is three-technique,” one scout said. “Good football player.” Both of his parents graduated from West Point. “I thought he disappeared too often in games,” another scout said. “Enough athletic ability. Not sure if he’s quick enough for a smaller guy to win on a consistent basis. Doesn’t always finish plays. He’s not as talented as Jurrell Casey. Not even close to Aaron Donald.”

    Shaq Thompson*, OLB, Washington: 6-0, 228. Winner of the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player. “Really good athlete,” one scout said. “Not great instincts. He’s the best athlete on that team. He could be the best running back. He’s a rusher. He can play on and off the ball.” Third-year junior scored six TDs in 2014, including three on fumble returns and two as a running back.

    Eli Harold*, OLB-DE, Virginia: 6-3, 247. Third-year junior, two-year starter. “Good athlete, not elite,” one scout said. “Just a solid, productive football player. He’ll get six, seven, eight sacks a year. Probably never reach double digits, but you’ll like him because he plays the run well and rushes the passer well.” Finished with 17½ sacks.

    Benardrick McKinney*, ILB, Mississippi State: 6-4, 246. Fourth-year junior, three-year starter. “He’s like a Dont’a Hightower,” one scout said. “Big, physical guy. I think he can (play every down).” Led Bulldogs in tackles past two seasons. “We don’t know if he can run yet,” another scout said. “I don’t know if he’s a dinosaur or he’s a new-breed backer.” Tiny hands (9).

    Denzel Perryman, ILB, Miami: 5-11, 236. Started 37 games over four seasons. “Explosive tackler,” one scout said. “Physical. Tough. He’s second or third round. It will be interesting to see how he runs.” Generally played middle linebacker but started all 13 games outside in 2013. “We’ve got people who love him,” another scout said. “I think he’s gotten too big. I talked to those guys (coaches) there and he doesn’t want to lose the weight. Doesn’t look like he can run as well as he should. Got some stiffness to him.”

    Paul Dawson, ILB-OLB, Texas Christian: 6-0, 235. Two-year starter. Ideally suited for weak side in a 4-3 but also might be able to play inside in a 3-4. “Very instinctive football player,” one scout said. “Little bit of a freelancer. Kind of does his own thing, which coaches don’t love. But he’s got a lot of ability.” Regarded as a character risk by some teams. “He’s late for meetings, all that kind of stuff,” another scout said. “He’s just never done the right things.”

    Trae Waynes*, CB, Michigan State: 6-0, 186. Melvin Gordon’s teammate at Kenosha Bradford. “He’s probably the best (corner) of the bunch,” one scout said. “He can press and play off. He can run. He’s got length. Very even-keeled. Good teammate. He’s not going to talk trash. He does a lot of good things, but he doesn’t have rare athletic traits. He could walk in and be a starter.” Fourth-year junior played 36 games in three seasons and intercepted six passes. “Those guys there have really been well-coached,” another scout said. “Kind of a weird built kid. He’s long, but he’s kind of thin. He can be a press guy but not very good playing off. At the right place he’ll have a chance to be a player.”

    Kevin Johnson, CB, Wake Forest: 6-0, 188. Redshirted in 2010 before starting 41 games in four seasons. “He could be gone by 30 based on need,” one scout said. “Somebody’s got to go and if it’s going to be anybody it’s probably going to be him because he’s the most steady. I’d really have a hard time taking any corner in the first round. Very good technique, awareness, instinct, ball skills. All that good stuff. But he’s not a burner and he’s thin. Just a good, solid, all-around corner.” Intercepted seven passes.

    Alex Carter*, CB, Stanford: 6-0, 196. Started for 2½ years and had two interceptions. “Tall, good-sized corner,” said one scout. “Solid speed, not special. Still developing his game. Fundamentally raw. I don’t know if he can step right in and start early in his career. He’s got man-to-man skill.” Tom, his father, was a Notre Dame cornerback drafted in the first round by Washington in 1993.

    Jalen Collins*, CB, Louisiana State: 6-1, 203. Started in 2014 after serving as a nickel back for two seasons. “He won’t run well enough to be a first-rounder,” one scout said. “Real good size. Little raw. His ceiling is as a No. 2 type corner.”

    Landon Collins*, S, Alabama: 6-0, 228. Played alongside Green Bay’s Ha Ha Clinton-Dix in 2013 before leading the Crimson Tide in tackles (103) as a junior. “Where did the Packers get Clinton-Dix (21)?” one scout asked. “He’s the same guy. Same grade. He’s OK. I’m not going to say sure-fire great. I think he’s smart and physical. He’s the best safety.” Added another scout: “I thought he was better than the guy in Green Bay. Little better movement.”

    #18859
    Avatar photoAgamemnon
    Participant

    Bob McGinn is the new Rick Gosselin, so I give his stuff more credit than most. This piece is colored by a GBay perspective at the bottom of the draft. If it was written about the Rams it would be somewhat different. imo

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photoAgamemnon.

    Agamemnon

    #18870
    Avatar photowv
    Participant

    Bob McGinn is the new Rick Gosselin, so I give his stuff more credit than most. This piece is colored by a GBay perspective at the bottom of the draft. If it was written about the Rams it would be somewhat different.

    Haven’t seen any Boylhart stuff. I’d like to know what he thinks of the “second tier QBs” and the OLinemen
    and the WRs.

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 19
    RUMOR; #Oregon QB Mariota absolutely killing it #NFLCombine interview process. Told he is as/more impressive than R.Wilson was, significant.

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 19
    #Cardinals HC Bruce Arians said Patrick Peterson battled blood-sugar issues early last season, and was “borderline” diabetic. #NFLCombine

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 18
    The big reason #NFL teams want top QB’s to throw at #NFLCombine? To see if QB’s or agent’s in charge of careers. Charector & leadership

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 17
    If South #Alabama QB Brandon Bridge throws at #NFLCombine look for ‘Experts” to pee in their pants. The kid has a big time arm. #NFLDraft

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 14
    RUMOR;#Eagles dangling QB Foles & 1st Rd PK to move up with #Redskins if Mariota drops past #Titans. talk is Skins holding out for more #NFL

    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photowv.
    • This reply was modified 9 years, 10 months ago by Avatar photowv.
    #18873
    Avatar photowv
    Participant

    https://twitter.com/drewboylhart

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 8
    The #NFLDraft2015 is heavy in WR’s, RB’s, interior OL’s, CB’s, undersized Edge pass rushers, MLB’s @BartHubbuch @JoeBuscaglia @Espngreeny

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 14
    RUMOR; #Cowboys very interested in trading for #Vikings Adrian Petterson once reinstated in mid April #NFL

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 12
    Why do #NFL teams draft QB’s in top 10,Than keep changing OC? How can QB develop? HC’s that do this are doomed to fail. #Jaguars #NFLDRAFT

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 9
    RUMOR; #Bucs would have to receive at least a 4th-round pick to even consider trading QB Mike Glennon #BillsMafia #Jets #Titans #Bills

    Drew Boylhart @DrewBoylhart · Feb 6
    Want young QB’s to play from pocket? Coach smarter PB schemes. #Patriots did in 4th QT of SB. Moved DT’s out of middle &Tom moved up to pass

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