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Pete Prisco
Senior NFL Columnist
Combine Musings: Winston goes No. 1; would Eagles move up for Mariota?
February 22, 2015 5:46 pm ETINDIANAPOLIS — With the NFL combine concluding, I thought it a good time to take a look at the potential top 10 picks in the April draft.
This isn’t a mock draft — that is coming soon — but an informative look at what could transpire at the top of the draft. As is the case every year with this early look, a lot can change when free agency begins.
What if, say, a pass rusher like Jason Pierre-Paul hits the market and signs with a team in need of an edge rusher? That will change the draft thinking. For now, though, this is what I think could happen at the top of the first round based on six days of discussions here at the combine.
1. Buccaneers — Florida State QB Jameis Winston: After talking with evaluators here, I don’t see any way the Bucs pass on Winston. He impressed on a lot of fronts, including in meetings with teams. He threw well. He showed off his impressive knowledge of the game. Unless something blows up between now and April, he will be the first pick. I will say this: Some personnel men are still concerned about his “silly” ways. But as one said, “He’s a good kid who just goofs around too much.” As the most polished passer on the board, I don’t think Tampa Bay’s brass can wait to see if Marcus Mariota can develop from a spread quarterback to a pocket passer. But the Bucs do like Mariota — a lot.
2. Titans — Southern California DT Leonard Williams: The Titans will have to decide if they think Mariota is better than Zach Metternberger, the quarterback they drafted last year. Mettenberger showed well when he played, and the Titans really like him. They think he can be their long-term answer. Plus, he would be a cheap starter for a long time, which means they could build around him like Seattle has done with Russell Wilson, without having a huge cap hit since he was a sixth-round pick. Some might wonder if Williams would fit in the team’s 3-4 scheme, but he would easily move outside as a 3-4 end, much like J.J. Watt.
3. Jaguars — Florida OLB/DE Dante Fowler Jr.: The Jaguars need to find a young edge rusher who can help right away. Fowler is coming off an impressive combine, running 4.61 at 261 pounds, but it’s his tape that impressed. Although some scouts I talked with were concerned that he wasn’t a pure speed rusher off the edge, they also raved about his toughness. “He never lets up,” one scout said. Fowler has been compared by some scouts to Khalil Mack, who starred as a rookie for the Raiders. The Jaguars could use him as their “Otto” player this season and move him to the “Leo” spot down the road. If the Titans were to take Mariota, I think Williams would be in play for the Jaguars. There is also a chance of a trade down, which general manager Dave Caldwell said he was open to doing. For now, I will keep Fowler here.
4. Raiders — Nebraska OLB/DE Randy Gregory: New coach Jack Del Rio has a defensive background. He was a 4-3 coach in the past, but with so many hybrid looks now Gregory would be a nice addition to a defense that added Mack last year. New defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. comes from Seattle, a team that used a lot of hybrid fronts. Having two book-end pass rushers could cause major problems for opposing quarterbacks. There is also a chance the Raiders could go receiver here. Maybe Kevin White of West Virginia, who seems like the perfect deep-ball threat that the Raiders have craved for years. Or maybe even Alabama’s Amari Cooper. For now, I will stick with Gregory.
5. Redskins — Clemson OLB Vic Beasley: There were great concerns about his weight coming into this combine among many scouts. Beasley was said to be about 225 pounds. But he came in at 245 pounds and benched 37 reps at 225 pounds to show off his strength. Then he ran well. That’s a nice package. But some scouts told me they worry that he got pinned too much in the run game at Clemson. I watched several games and saw the same thing. But maybe now that he’s heavier, it might not happen as much. The Redskins need a big-time rusher, and Beasley could be a nice fit.
6. Jets — Oregon QB Marcus Mariota: Could this be a spot the Eagles target if this plays, giving Chip Kelly the opening to trade up and get his former Oregon quarterback? For now, I’ll leave Mariota with the Jets, even though they have Geno Smith. Like the Titans, they would have to decide if Mariota is a better long-term answer than Smith. Smith showed well in his 2014 season finale, so I would let it play out with him for another year. But this is certainly a possibility.
7. Bears — Washington DT Danny Shelton: They are transitioning to a 3-4 scheme, which means they need to get better up front. Shelton would be a force inside, even if he didn’t run that well Sunday at the combine. That’s not what he does. He is a run-stuffing force, which the Bears lack. I know this might be high for that, but if they really are going to that style of defense they need a fit inside. They could also go for an edge rusher, maybe Shane Ray of Missouri. He didn’t work out at the combine because of a foot injury. Another name to watch: Alabama safety Landon Collins. Did you watch their safety play the past two seasons?
8. Falcons — Kentucky OLB/DE Alvin “Bud” Dupree: With new coach Dan Quinn making the final call on players, they need to go defense in a big way. That unit was horrible last season. So even with all the receivers on the board, and Roddy White getting up in years, I think they will look to find a player who can help a bad front seven. I watched some tape on Dupree last week, and thought he was a nice player, but not a dominant edge rusher. But a scout told me to go back and do a re-check, and I saw more explosion from him the second time I watched. He also plays hard, and he’s tough against the run. He did have a nice combine workout Sunday, and he would seem to fit for Quinn, who likes versatility in his front-seven players. At 6-feet-4, 270 pounds, Dupree was bigger than some scouts expected.
9. Giants — Iowa OL Brandon Scherff: There are a lot of scouts who think Scherff will move inside to guard and be a dominant Pro Bowl-style of player. The Giants played Weston Richburg at guard last season, but he could move over to center if they took Scherff. Or they could play Scherff at right tackle and move Justin Pugh, who struggled some in his second season, to right guard. Either way, the Giants need line help and Scherff would make a lot of sense.
10. Rams — Alabama WR Amari Cooper: His 4.45 40 time here was a little surprising and helps his cause. He is clearly the most polished receiver, and the Rams need help at that spot. They lack a dynamic playmaker. One scout told me the top three receivers from last year’s draft — Odell Beckham Jr., Sammy Watkins and Mike Evans — are better than any of the receivers in this class. But Cooper isn’t far behind. He is a great route runner and while his speed isn’t blazing, he does run away from defenders. The Rams have a lot of bodies, but no true No. 1. “That kid will be a 75-catch guy for a long time,” one offensive coordinator said.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete-prisco/25078215/combine-musings-winston-goes-no-1-would-eagles-move-up-for-mariotaI would take Cooper over Collins, otherwise I am going with La’el Collins. I would be happy with, Scherff or White too.
Agamemnon2015 NFL Mock Draft – Charlie Campbell
Last update: Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. Round 4 added.
2015 NFL MOCK DRAFT – WALT’S | CHARLIE’S ROUND: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4
Charlie Campbell was a senior writer at PewterReport.com.
Send Charlie an e-mail here: draftcampbell@gmail.com
Follow Charlie on Twitter @draftcampbell for updates.NFL Draft Recent Links:
2015 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATED 2/18): Round 1 /Picks 17-32 /Round 2 /Round 3 /Round 4
Other 2015 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (2/23) /Overreaction Mock (12/29)
2016 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATED 2/5): Round 1 /Picks 17-32
Other 2016 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (2/2)
2014 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATE 5/8): Round 1 /Picks 17-32 /Round 2 /Round 3 /Round 4 /Round 5 /Round 6 /Round 7
2014 NFL Mock Re-Draft (UPDATED 5/10): Walt Round 4 /Walt Round 5 /Charlie Round 4 /Charlie Round 5 /Walt Round 2 /Walt Round 3 /Charlie Round 2 /Charlie Round 3
Other 2014 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (5/8) /Goals (5/3) /Not Mock (4/27) /Emmitt Mock (4/20) /Trades Mock (4/13) /Celebrity Mock (4/11) /Backward Mock (4/4) /April Fools Mock (4/1) /Reader Mock /Free Agent Mock (3/6) /Overreaction Mock (12/30)
2008 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2007 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2006 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2005 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2004 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2003 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2002 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2014 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings / NFL Rumors
(More links to previous years at the bottom of this page)Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
The Buccaneers are the poster child of how drafting a bust quarterback can set a franchise back for five or more years. Lovie Smith and Jason Licht inherited a roster with a ton of holes in it. After a history of bad free agent signings and draft picks, Smith and Licht walked into a team that had garbage on the offensive line, only one quality player on the defensive line and no quarterback. Landing a franchise signal-caller could be the start of rebuilding the franchise. In speaking with sources, the Bucs initially prefer Winston and the Glazers are comfortable with him being the pick entering the interview stage of the process.Winston is a better on-the-field prospect than Marcus Mariota, and over time, that could push teams to overlook the character discrepancy. Even with the off-the-field concerns, I have Winston ranked first on my big board and have had as the No. 1 overall pick since early October 2014. He is a rare athlete who has natural poise as a pocket passer. His phenomenal field vision, anticipation and decision-making are extremely impressive for a college quarterback. He is a rare talent. The biggest issue for Winston is off-the-field problems.
One scouting director told us those off-the-field problems “are real and more than advertised.” Winston’s suspension while Florida State faced off against Clemson almost, and should have, cost his team a win. In speaking with sources, some NFL teams have real doubts about Winston and think he could have Jamarcus Russell-level off-the-field problems. Other sources feel that Winston’s off-the-field issues are immaturity that he’ll grow out of and they’ve been overblown. They say that Winston is a leader in the locker room, a good teammate and does everything asked of him by the football and baseball coaches. One general manager told WalterFootball.com that Winston is the real deal, so some team is going to look past the off-the-field issues and take him early in the 2015 NFL Draft.
Winson completed 65 percent of his passes in 2014 for 3,907 yards with 25 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. He was a sparkling 26-1 as a starting quarterback. Winston took college football by storm in 2013 as the Heisman Trophy winner. The redshirt freshman demonstrated a quality arm with well-developed passing ability. The 6-foot-4, 228-pounder completed 67 percent of his passes for 4,057 yards with 40 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. On the ground, he ran for 219 yards with four touchdowns.
Tennessee Titans: Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
The Titans need a franchise quarterback, and I know Mariota has already made a favorable impression on the brass in Tennessee. In speaking with sources, it doesn’t sound like the organization is as big of believers in Zach Mettenberger as the public statements lead you to believe.There is no doubt that Mariota has great physical tools. The 6-foot-4, 211-pounder has a strong arm, size and excellent mobility. As a passer, Mariota has the physical ability to do it all, but could use some refinement in his mechanics, footwork and pocket passing. He isn’t a developed pocket passer entering the NFL. Pocket passing is teachable with a good student, as the Panthers and 49ers proved with Cam Newton and Colin Kaepernick. Mariota will require that kind of time investment.
Mariota completed 68 percent of his passes in 2014 for 4,454 yards with 42 touchdowns and four interceptions. On the ground, he totaled 770 yards (5.7 average) with 15 touchdowns. Mariota has demonstrated a strong arm, athleticism and toughness. He also did a great job of protecting the football from interceptions, but demonstrated a habit of fumbling. Mariota has to develop his field vision, working through his progressions and at working under center. Mariota rarely threw into tight windows because of his college offense, so he needs development as a pocket passer and spending some time as a backup could benefit him.
Mariota completed 64 percent of his passes in 2013 for 3,665 yards with 31 touchdowns and four interceptions. On the ground, the redshirt sophomore ran for 715 yards with nine touchdowns. While Mariota did a great job of avoiding throwing picks, he had some issues with fumbles. In 2012 as a first-year starter, Mariota completed 69 percent of his passes for 2,677 yards with 32 touchdowns and six interceptions.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Leonard Williams, DT/DE, USC
Aside from a quarterback, the Jaguars can just go with the best prospect available because their roster needs talent all over. Williams could play end for Gus Bradley on running downs and slide inside in passing situations.Williams recorded 80 tackles, seven sacks, 8.5 tackles for a loss, one interception, three forced fumbles and three passes batted in 2014. The 6-foot-5, 300-pounder has some natural strength and speed, plus the ability to play all over on the defensive line as a 3-4 defensive end, 4-3 end or tackle. Williams could stand to get stronger for the NFL and gets in trouble when he plays too high, but a shoulder injury that required surgery could have impacted his power in 2014. Still, Williams is very disruptive and capable of taking over games.
Williams played well for USC in 2013. He recorded 74 tackles with 13.5 tackles for a loss, a forced fumble and five sacks. The sophomore generated more pass rush than the numbers indicate. Williams was the Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the Year in 2012 after a fabulous debut for the Trojans. He totaled 64 tackles with 13.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, four passes batted and an interception that season.
Oakland Raiders: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
Ideally, I think the Raiders would like to take Leonard Williams, but he may not make it to the fourth pick. They took an edge rusher last year in Khalil Mack, so Oakland could address its weak receiving corps and give Derek Carr something to work with. The Raiders have nothing close to resembling a No. 1 receiver.After posting modest production as a junior, White exploded in 2014. The senior was one of college football’s best receivers in 2014. White recorded 109 receptions for 1,447 yards and 10 touchdowns for the year. By the end of the third game, he had surpassed his 2013 totals of 35 receptions for 507 yards with five touchdowns.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pound White has a unique combination with size and speed. He consistently gets separation and can make contested catches with the strength to outfight defensive backs for the ball. He showed off his great skill set with a huge performance at the Combine.
Pick change; previously Randy Gregory, DE
Washington Redskins: Dante Fowler Jr., OLB/DE, Florida
The Redskins could use offensive line help and a safety, but they also could consider an edge rusher as they like the in-house offensive linemen drafted last year. Plus, I wouldn’t be surprised if Washington signed Chargers safety Marcus Gilchrist in free agency. Redskins executive A.J. Smith drafted Gilchrist, while defensive coordinator Joe Barry knows him well. Barry will probably run a hybrid 4-3/3-4 defense, and Fowler is a perfect fit to pair with Ryan Kerrigan and Trent Murphy.Fowler finished 2014 with a total of 60 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for a loss, one pass broken up and a forced fumble. He was extremely disruptive and a big presence behind the line of scrimmage. The 6-foot-3, 270-pounder is fast and physical. He has a lot of upside for the NFL. Fowler could play defensive end or stay as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
Fowler was excellent for the Gators in 2013. He racked up 50 tackles with 10.5 tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks, one pass batted and three forced fumbles for the season. Fowler was a First-Team All-SEC Freshman-Team selection in 2012 even though he was a backup. Fowler recorded 47 tackles with 10.5 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks that year.
New York Jets: Randy Gregory, DE/OLB, Nebraska
The Jets have missed out on the quarterbacks and have a lot invested in their receivers. New York could use an edge rusher for Todd Bowles.In 2014, Gregory totaled 56 tackles with 8.5 tackles for a loss, seven sacks, one forced fumble, three passes broken up and one interception while missing three games (knee, concussion, ankle). He was a beast for Nebraska in 2013 – his first year on campus. The sophomore had just 10 starts, yet racked up 66 tackles with 19 tackles for a loss, 10.5 sacks, one pass batted and an interception. The 6-foot-6, 240-pounder should get even bigger over time.
There is no doubt that Gregory is extremely fast. His lightning first-step gives him an advantage to turn the corner against tackles. Gregory also has natural agility to drop his hips and maneuver his body by blockers. On top of his speed, he has phenomenal hands for a player who doesn’t have a lot of experience. Gregory is very adept at getting blockers’ hands off of him and shedding their blocks. He is also physical when putting offensive players into the turf. Gregory has a relentless attitude and can make some plays through a second effort. He uses a spin move, swim move and bull rush effectively. Gregory also is really smart about when he deploys those moves. Gregory could stand to get stronger for the ground game.
Pick change; previously Amari Cooper, WR
Chicago Bears: Danny Shelton, DT, Washington
It sounds like the Bears will be transitioning to a 3-4 scheme that will also mix in some 4-3. Shelton is a great fit as a 3-4 nose tackle for Vic Fangio, plus the Bears don’t have one of those on their roster. In the 4-3, Will Sutton and Ego Ferguson will fit John Fox well.Shelton was the talk of the Senior Bowl with his combination of power, size, and burst. He was a load and nearly impossible to single-block. In the pass-rushing one-on-ones and in run defense, he had his way with blockers. Shelton was one of the nation’s sack leaders at defensive tackle in 2014 with nine. He totaled 87 tackles and 16.5 tackles for a loss, too. The 6-foot-1, 343-pounder is a big, disruptive tackle who has a surprising burst.
In 2013, Shelton turned in 59 tackles with 3.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks. He had an excellent bowl game against BYU with seven tackles and a lot of disruption at the point of attack. Shelton recorded 45 tackles, .5 sacks and four tackles for a loss in 2012.
Atlanta Falcons: Shane Ray, OLB/DE, Missouri
Atlanta has strengthened its defensive line with bigger and more physical players, but the team still needs to improve its pass rush.Ray totaled 14.5 sacks, 65 tackles, 22 tackles for a loss and three forced fumbles in 2014. He demonstrated a real burst off the snap with the agility to turn the corner. Ray needs to get stronger for the ground game, but he has rare speed-rushing skills and edge-rush athleticism. It will be interesting to see if Ray can add weight to play defensive end in the NFL, otherwise he’ll have to move to a Von Miller-type role in a 4-3 defense. Ray could fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
Ray (6-3, 245) contributed to Missouri’s fierce pass rush during the 2013 season as a backup. He recorded 39 tackles with nine tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles for the year.
New York Giants: Ereck Flowers, OT, Miami
The Giants have to improve their offensive line in front of Eli Manning. If they draft a tackle, they can move Will Beatty to the right side and slide Justin Pugh to guard. Along with Weston Richburg, New York would have the makings of a line that could mature together. In speaking with Jerry Reese at the Senior Bowl, he said the team would always be looking to upgrade its offensive line.Flowers has an excellent combination of size, strength, quickness and athleticism. The 6-foot-6, 324-pounder doesn’t get a lot of publicity, but don’t be surprised if he becomes a hot prospect. Flowers played extremely well in 2014. After missing a few games because of a torn meniscus, he came back in impressive fashion against Florida State. Flowers also had an impressive game against Nebraska taking on Randy Gregory. For the year, Flowers was a very consistent run-blocker for Duke Johnson and pass-protector. Flowers is shockingly fast and agile for such a big and strong blocker who can bully defensive linemen.
In 2013 as a sophomore, Flowers took the left tackle job from Seantrel Henderson and had a fabulous debut for Miami. In his true freshman season, Flowers was a backup who started four games.
St. Louis Rams: Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford
The Rams have devoted a lot of picks to their defensive line and now can do it on the other side of the ball. Since there isn’t a quarterback worth taking, it makes sense for St. Louis to improve its blocking. Joe Barksdale could leave in free agency and that would open a hole at right tackle.Peat was solid at protecting quarterback Kevin Hogan over the past two seasons. Peat also had success in the ground game. He is strong enough to be a downhill run-blocker and also is agile enough to block in a zone scheme. The 6-foot-7, 310-pounder has excellent size and athleticism with upside for the NFL. He needs to improve his bending and not reaching after defenders, but his size and length allow him to get away with it.
Peat had a good game against USC this year. He did well in his plays against Leonard Williams and was generally rock solid minus a couple of snaps. Peat had a similar outing against Washington with generally a quality outing aside from a few plays. The Cardinal moved David Yankey inside to guard for 2013 because the coaches believed they had a star left tackle in Peat. Judging by Stanford’s success over the last two seasons, that looks like it was the right call as Peat played very well.
http://walterfootball.com/draft2015charlie.php
AgamemnonPat Kirwan
NFL Insider
2015 NFL Combine: Jameis tops list of 12 who impressed in interviews
February 23, 2015 1:26 pm ETI had a chance to sit down with a number of the top athletes at the NFL Scouting Combine and ask the questions that were on my mind. Here’s a quick review of some of my favorite conversations I had in Indianapolis on Friday.
Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State: Jameis is an easy interview — almost too easy when you think about all the off-field issues he is expected to discuss while he’s in Indianapolis. There’s no doubt he is a confident young man with a contagious personality. Winston was comfortable talking X & O’s with me, and at ease when I asked him to call a play as if he were in the huddle with a group of veterans. He welcomed the chance to demonstrate how he expects to handle his first day in the huddle, and fully expects to earn the respect of the veterans. Time will tell, and the less he does with the marketing aspect of his career, the sooner the vets will accept him. We also talked about the Florida State game against Clemson when he was suspended and had to stand on the sidelines and watch. Winston’s face lit up when I gave him a chance to describe that day and wanted to make sure I knew how much effort he put into getting his backup ready to play, even suggesting the two of them stayed until midnight a few nights leading up to that Clemson game.
Jameis Winston has a contagious personality and confidence. (USATSI) Jameis Winston has a contagious confidence about him. (USATSI)
Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Mister Smooth not only on the field but during the interview with me. Amari presents himself as a confident, mature young man. General managers and head coaches will get the feeling Cooper is a safe pick with all the intangibles. He does not convey the ‘diva’ traits that a number of receivers present. He is all business, which matches up to what you see on tape: a polished route runner that makes it look easy. I told him he reminded me of Reggie Wayne when I watched his game tapes. He smiled, but gave no verbal reaction.
Phillip Dorsett, WR, Miami: I spent time with him at the Senior Bowl and already had a very favorable impression of him. I read a very favorable report on him that I had from a coach and Dorsett just said, ‘That’s about right.’ Dorsett told me he was coached by Hall of Fame wide receiver Chris Carter when he was in high school and Carter was tough on him when it came to route running. It paid off because Dorsett is much more than a speed receiver. Dorsett also wanted to talk about his blocking ability and took pride in springing a big run. The longer I talked with Dorsett, the more I felt like he is a true Miami throwback. He loves the tradition of the ‘U’ and presents himself with a lot of pride in his school and his skills. He has on-field traits similar to DeSean Jackson and seems like a very coachable young man I would love to have on my team.
Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA: Eric wasn’t with me for a minute before I felt like I knew him. He is outgoing and very aware of what it is going to take to play in the NFL. I felt like he could walk into a defensive huddle Day 1 and have the respect of the veterans. He was very impressive discussing pass defense, reading route progressions, leverage, and anticipating quarterback throws. Kendricks was quick to pay tribute to his basketball and baseball background when it came to drops and intercepting passes. As for playing the run, he did a nice job of describing his first-step quickness from film study and his ability to disengage blockers while continuing to locate the ball. Any team looking for a middle or weakside linebacker is going to have Kendricks up high on the board, and after teams interview him he will be moved up the board even higher.
Randy Gregory, OLB/DE, Nebraska: Gregory was the best interview of Friday, and there were a lot of really good ones. Gregory’s stock was already high before he got to the combine, but he sells himself, and most teams want this kid on their team. He weighed in at an alarming 235 pounds, but he has played as heavy as 255 and has the frame to play at 270. He understands rushing the passer, and has multiple ways to get to the QB. He told me teams from all the schemes have talked to him and I got the feeling the 3-4 teams will show the most interest. Randy was a very good high school basketball player and will not struggle to zone drop and play the pass. I challenged him to show me where he has won in pass rush with more than a speed rush and he was quick to point out his game against talented Miami tackle, Ereck Flowers. Gregory would be a great fit in Tennessee with Dick LeBeau joining the staff.
Arik Armstead, DE, Oregon: I felt like I was sitting down with Calais Campbell of the Arizona Cardinals. Armstead has a rare body type at close to 6-foot-8, with long arms and big hands. He told me the most intense interest in him is coming from the 3-4 front teams. He demonstrated to me his two-gap techniques and he showcased a very solid level of knowledge about defensive scheme. He came across as a very coachable type that always puts team ahead of his individual achievements. He is not a ‘me’ guy in any way. We talked about blocking passes and he gave me a few of his tips on playing the QB and timing the block. I was impressed. Not one player at the combine was as impressive as Armstead from a physical presence level. What struck me most was his humility, and there’s no doubt in my mind that every defensive line coach he spent time with wanted to coach him.
Danny Shelton, DT, Washington: I’ve interviewed defensive linemen at the combine for 27 straight years and I can’t remember a player as enthusiastic as Danny Shelton when it came to talking about taking on double teams. Believe me, it is a thankless job and all the glory goes to the linebacker making the tackle because Big Dan freed him up to run to the ball. We talked about handling double teams from a gap compared to playing a ‘0’ technique on the center’s head and guards coming down on him, which is a much tougher double team. He likes to play at 335 pounds, but can play upward of 350 and still feel mobile. I asked him about his range and if he can be more than an A gap player. He was convincing to me about pursuing plays and hoping the contain play forces things back inside. He also loved the opportunities to blow up a back in the C gap. As for pass rush, he said he works ‘no huddle’ hurry-up drills all the time, so he has the stamina to be on the field for third downs and hurry-up offenses. I don’t know if he will ever evolve into a Vince Wilfork-level player, but I will tell you the work ethic and attitude are in the right place to give it a shot.
Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State: Waynes is one of the quietest and even-keeled corners I’ve ever spent time with, especially a corner with a first-round grade. There is no ‘diva’ in this kid. He is not a self-promoter, even though his teammates nicknamed him after Richard Sherman more for his hair style than his personality. Waynes loves to play press coverage and be left alone on an island against top receivers. I could tell from the sit down that he is uncomfortable talking about himself as a player or referencing his best games, but he sure liked to discuss his preparation routine. There’s little to no chance he will ever go into a game unprepared.
Landon Collins, S, Alabama: Collins was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and he told me he picked Alabama because he felt Nick Saban would push him the hardest. Collins told me a story about Saban walking into the meeting room the first day Collins was in the program and Saban saying while looking at Collins in the back of the room that he was glad to start coaching him. Collins said all the players turned and looked at him, and Collins in return turned and looked behind him to see who Saban was talking to but there was no one there but the wall. He took issue with the idea that he was strictly a strong safety. He said he has been working hard on the opportunity to show he has elite deep middle skills. When he walked away I felt like I just got done interviewing a 28-year-old All-Pro, not a rookie at the combine. I asked him which pros he studies, and he acknowledged his great respect for Cam Chancellor but said his idol was the late Sean Taylor.
Kevin White, CB, TCU: My friend John Pollard jumped out of his seat when he pulled up the production charts on the 5-foot-8 corner. I saw Kevin perform at the Senior Bowl, but Pollard’s research on his whole career told an even more glowing story of an undersized corner that regularly defeats wide receivers over 6’2. As Pollard pointed out, teams went after the short corner and he responded with a tremendous burn rate and made quarterbacks pay for throwing his way. White will be considered a slot nickel corner by most teams, but I would not be surprised to see him as a starter by his second year. He likes to play more ‘off man’ coverage than press and feels he has the anticipation, closing speed and vertical leap to play the ball. I agree.
Cody Prewitt, S, Ole Miss: Prewitt had a much better season in 2013 than he had in 2014 if you read the stats. Prewitt felt the stats were misleading, and that he had a much-improved group of teammates in front of him in 2014 and there were less plays coming to him. He loves to talk about Troy Polamalu and all the things he did during his career. Prewitt is a deep middle player that has called the defenses and made the secondary adjustments. I asked him about run support in the box and he quickly pointed to the games against LSU and Alabama. He said those two teams are going to run the ball down your throat and he had 16 tackles in the two games, mostly in run-support calls.
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, CB, Oregon: Here’s a great young man that got hurt the week of the first NCAA playoffs and had to have surgery. His biggest concern wasn’t the championship game for himself but his teammates and telling his parents he was injured. Ekpre-Olomu is a solid young man with good values and a lot of pride in what he stands for. He said his rehab is going well and didn’t appear down about the setback he incurred with the injury. It may take a year or longer for him to regain his quickness and movement skills to build on the 18 turnovers he had in college, but a team with patience is getting a solid young man that will be factor again. The ideal spot is a team with an aging set of corners that have a year left in them and this kid would be ready for 2016. After sitting with him I believe he is worth the investment.
AgamemnonSt. Louis Rams: Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford
The Rams have devoted a lot of picks to their defensive line and now can do it on the other side of the ball. Since there isn’t a quarterback worth taking, it makes sense for St. Louis to improve its blocking. Joe Barksdale could leave in free agency and that would open a hole at right tackle…
——————–I’d be fine with Peat or one of the other top OT/G’s
but are any of them really significantly better than
the next tier OLinemen?I dunno, but it sure seems like this is the year
to trade down and pick up another draft pick.I mean, if they could even pick up a 3rd round pick
it might lead to a damn fine RB or WR or LB.w
vA trade down is always good. But there is a chance that you will not get the best guy for you. You get an extra roll, but that doesn’t always add up cause your percentages of getting the player that fits the best go down. imo In this draft I would rather take my players and have a decreased chance of getting Mannion in the fifth. I don’t think the Rams needs quantity so much this year. Think Bobby Wagoner. 😉
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Agamemnon2015 NFL Mock Draft
Last update: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015.
Next update: Next week. Follow me @walterfootball for updates.The order of this 2015 NFL Mock Draft is based on the NFL Power Rankings.
NFL Draft Recent Links:
2015 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATED 2/25): Round 1 /Picks 17-32 /Round 2 /Round 3 /Round 4
Other 2015 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (2/23) /Overreaction Mock (12/29)
2016 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATED 2/5): Round 1 /Picks 17-32
Other 2016 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (2/2)
2014 NFL Mock Draft (UPDATE 5/8): Round 1 /Picks 17-32 /Round 2 /Round 3 /Round 4 /Round 5 /Round 6 /Round 7
2014 NFL Mock Re-Draft (UPDATED 5/10): Walt Round 4 /Walt Round 5 /Charlie Round 4 /Charlie Round 5 /Walt Round 2 /Walt Round 3 /Charlie Round 2 /Charlie Round 3
Other 2014 Mock Drafts: Charlie Campbell (5/8) /Goals (5/3) /Not Mock (4/27) /Emmitt Mock (4/20) /Trades Mock (4/13) /Celebrity Mock (4/11) /Backward Mock (4/4) /April Fools Mock (4/1) /Reader Mock /Free Agent Mock (3/6) /Overreaction Mock (12/30)
2008 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2007 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2006 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2005 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2004 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2003 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2002 NFL Draft Re-Mock / 2014 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings / NFL Rumors
(More links to previous years at the bottom of this page)*** 2015 NFL Mock Draft (4 rounds) updated Feb. 24. This NFL Mock Draft will be updated at least once per week (Tuesday afternoons and other times for important events.). Check out old versions of this 2015 NFL Mock Draft in the archived mock draft section. Follow @walterfootball for NFL Draft updates. ***
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
The Buccaneers will definitely be taking a quarterback; that much is obvious. We reported several months ago that Tampa was more than willing to move up for a quarterback, but that’s not necessary now that the Buccaneers own the top selection. Thus, all speculation of them moving down is pretty pointless.It’s not a matter of what position Tampa addresses, but rather which quarterback it takes. Jameis Winston was the favorite heading into the NFL Combine. Charlie Campbell reported that the Buccaneers currently prefer Jameis Winston over Marcus Mariota, and then he wrote that the Buccaneers’ ownership is comfortable with Winston, while the front office has him rated higher than Cam Newton and Matthew Stafford coming out of school.
Winston only helped himself in Indianapolis. In addition to throwing some terrific passes in the field drills, he also impressed in the interviews, prompting one personnel man to compare his football IQ to Peyton Manning’s. Winston is a near-lock to go No. 1 at this point.
Tennessee Titans: Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
Both Chris Mortensen and Jim Wyatt have reported that Tennessee is set to go “all in” with Zach Mettenberger next season. While that’s definitely accurate right now, things may change once the Titans’ front office gets to know Marcus Mariota. Plus, that report may have come from the coaching staff, which is more than likely to back its current player.I feel more confident about mocking Mariota to the Titans than Jameis Winston, given ownership’s emphasis on character. Mariota isn’t an ideal fit for Ken Whisenhunt’s offense, but there have been many examples of coaches taking talent over system fits in the past. Take Andy Reid drafting Donovan McNabb, for example. The need for a franchise signal-caller trumps everything.
Mariota helped himself at the NFL Combine, impressing teams in the interviews and looking great in the field drills. Fifty percent of mock drafts have the Titans picking Leonard Williams, per our mock draft consensus report, but that number should decrease soon.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Leonard Williams, DE/DT, USC
The Jaguars need offensive line help much more than another player on the defensive front, but reaching for an inferior prospect to fill a hole would not be wise, and it’s something teams usually don’t do anyway. It would be in Jacksonville’s best interest to trade down, but that may not be possible.Leonard Williams is the top prospect on the board, and the Jaguars will not pass on him if he’s available. He’ll improve an area of strength; he’ll make the pass rush that much better, which could mask some of the liabilities in the back seven. Williams would serve the Michael Bennett role in Gus Bradley’s defense.
Oakland Raiders: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
The Raiders would love to land Leonard Williams. He would fill a huge need, and as Charlie Campbell reported a couple of months ago, Williams told Oakland that he would love to play for them. Unfortunately for the Raiders, they won one too many games at the end of the season. Perhaps they’d be willing to swap picks with the Jaguars; that way, Jacksonville could obtain its edge rusher without passing up a superior prospect.If Oakland stays put, it’ll strongly consider Kevin White, who had a phenomenal performance at the NFL Combine. There was some debate as to whether White or Amari Cooper happened to be the No. 1 receiver in this class prior to the NFL Combine, but White is firmly at the top of the list right now.
Pick change; previously Randy Gregory, DE/OLB
Washington Redskins: Dante Fowler, DE/OLB, Florida
The Redskins are not filling a primary need at all. Brian Orakpo is heading for free agency, but they still have Ryan Kerrigan and 2014 second-rounder Trent Murphy. However, Dante Fowler, in the wake of his strong showing at the NFL Combine, is the best player on the board, so I don’t think Washington will be able to pass on him, given how this mock draft has played out with Ronnie Stanley headed back to school. Besides, the Redskins can rotate three talented pass-rushers, and Fowler will give them depth at a key position.Pick change; previously Shane Ray, DE/OLB
New York Jets: Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama
The poor Jets missed out on Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota, though in the scenario in which I have Tennessee passing on Mariota, I have New York taking him. If the Jets don’t trade up for either, perhaps they’ll target Brett Hundley in the second round. In the meantime, they can take one of the top prospects on the board, and that would be Amari Cooper.Cooper is now the No. 2 receiver in this class, but he still had a strong showing at the NFL Combine. He’ll provide a big upgrade in the receiving corps; the unreliable Percy Harvin may not be on the team next year with John Idzik gone. Speaking of Idzik, I have all the coach and GM firing grades here.
Chicago Bears: Danny Shelton, NT, Washington
The Bears are moving to a 3-4 defense under new coordinator Vic Fangio. They’ll need many pieces for this scheme, as their defense currently has next to no talent. One big hole happens to be at the nose tackle position, as Chicago lacks a monstrous lineman to clog running lanes. Danny Shelton, who has drawn comparisons to Haloti Ngata, can fill that void.Atlanta Falcons: Vic Beasley, DE/OLB, Clemson
The Falcons are in a good spot. There are plenty of elite pass-rushers in this class, so there’s a very good chance that one of the players they covet will fall to them at No. 8. Atlanta will almost certainly be taking one of the edge rushers with this selection, given its huge need at the position. The front office desperately needs to fix its woeful defense.Vic Beasley could be Atlanta’s target if Dante Fowler is off the board. Beasley stole the show at the 2015 NFL Combine, posting terrific numbers in the bench press and 40-yard dash. Head coach Dan Quinn was part of teams that drafted Von Miller and Bruce Irvin into his scheme, so Beasley makes a ton of sense.
Pick change; previously Dante Fowler, DE/OLB
New York Giants: Randy Gregory, DE/OLB, Nebraska
The Giants typically take the top player on their board, and I have to imagine Randy Gregory would fit that description in this scenario. Gregory was considered an option for the Titans at No. 2 overall prior to the NFL Combine, but he weighed in at 235 pounds, prompting many to question whether he could play in a 4-3 defense.I don’t think general manager Jerry Reese will care about what happened to Gregory in Indianapolis. Gregory reportedly was sick prior to the NFL Combine, which could account for his weight loss. He has the length and athleticism that Reese likes out of his pass-rushers, so I can’t see the Giants passing on him if he’s available at No. 9 overall.
Pick change; previously Erick Flowers, OT
St. Louis Rams: Ereck Flowers, OT, Miami
The Rams still have some holes on their offensive line. Jake Long’s health is a serious concern, so there’s a void at the guard spot that Greg Robinson previously occupied. Meanwhile, right tackle Joseph Barksdale is set to hit free agency this spring. Here’s a solution for either dilemma.Check out the NFL Draft Rumor Mill, where Charlie reported two months ago that Flowers has received top-20 grades.
Pick change; previously Brandon Scherff, G/OT
Minnesota Vikings: Brandon Scherff, OT/G, Iowa
Matt Kalil was a human turnstile this past year, but he dealt with an injury. He’ll almost definitely get one more chance next season. Brandon Scherff could be drafted as insurance, though. In the meantime, Scherff can take over at the left guard position, which has been problematic for quite some time.Pick change; previously DeVante Parker, WR
Cleveland Browns: La’el Collins, OT/G, LSU
The Browns have expressed a desire to fortify their offensive and defensive lines, so they can take care of the former with this selection. The front office wanted to upgrade Mitchell Schwartz last year, with plans to move him inside. Here’s a potential new starter in La’el Collins, who put on an impressive performance at the NFL Combine. The Browns actually told Collins that they have him ranked as their top right tackle, as you can see in our NFL Draft Rumors page.Pick change; previously Andrus Peat, OT
http://walterfootball.com/draft2015.php
Agamemnon
Pigskin Paul’s Top 5 by Position
Rankings By Position
Posted: February 1, 2015 | No Commentsby Pigskin Paul Guillemette, GBN Associate Editor
All-Star games are in the books, and Underclassmen have been approved for inclusion in the 2015 DRAFT. So, before I stun you with my first Mock Draft I want to present you with my Top 5-6 by position.
QB: Sure things here do not exist. Between off-field baggage and read/option offenses the reality is risk and uncertainty run rampant. That and a pure lack of a deep talent pool. Expect some reaches and forces here to fill empty Franchise QB slots. Buyer beware.
MARCUS MARIOTA/OREGON
JAMEIS WINSTON/FLORIDA STATE*
BRETT HUNDLEY/UCLA
BRYCE PETTY/BAYLOR
GARRETT GRAYSON/COLORADO STATERB: If we can assume that injured guys like GURLEY will be ready by Training Camps then this is a strong RB group that should end the 2-year draught of no 1st Rounders.
MELVIN GORDON/WISCONSIN*
TODD GURLEY/GEORGIA*#
TEVIN COLEMAN/INDIANA*
JAY AJAYI/BOISE STATE*
T.J. YELDON/ALABAMA*
DAVID COBB/MINNESOTAWR: Beyond COOPER no one is elite, but a lot of guys from this group have strong potential as No. 2 & 3 wideouts at the next level. Depth here is outstanding.
AMARI COOPER/ALABAMA*
DAVANTE PARKER/LOUISVILLE
KEVIN WHITE/WEST VIRGINIA
SAMMIE COATES/AUBURN
JAELEN STRONG/ARIZONA STATE*
TYLER LOCKETT/KANSAS STATETE: Any team in need of a all-around inline TE is going to be in danger of over-drafting someone in this position group. THank goodness MAXX decoded to come out early.
MAXX WILLIAMS/MINNESOTA*
NICK O’LEARY/FLORIDA STATE
CLIVE WALFORD/MIAMI
E.J. BIBBS/IOWA STATE
NICK BOYLE/DELAWAREOT: 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/OREGONDT: Some elite talent amongst this group, but SHELTON is the only real Nose in the group. ARMSTEAD might be better at DE in a 3-4 scheme.
DANNY SHELTON/NT/WASHINGTON
MALCOLM BROWN/TEXAS*
EDDIE GOLDMAN/FLORIDA STATE*
CARL DAVIS/IOWA
ARIK ARMSTEAD/OREGON*DE: This group is solid, but some guys who game is primarily pass-rush look too thin to stop the run. GREGORY comes to mind as a real quandary to find the ideal pro position for. And if he’s only a pass-rusher how high can you afford to take him.
LEONARD WILLIAMS/USC* 3-4
MARIO EDWARDS/FLORIDA STATE* 3-4
RANDY GREGORY/NEBRASKA* OLB
ZA’DARIUS SMITH/KENTUCKY
DANTE’ FOWLER/FLORIDA* OLBILB: Elite guys here are few and far between, but there is some interesting variety to select from.
BENARDRICK McKINNEY/MISS STATE*
TAIWAN JONES/MICHIGAN STATE
DENZEL PERRYMAN/MIAMI
ERIK KENDRICKS/UCLA
STEPHONE ANTHONY/CLEMSONOLB: As has been the case in recent memory the talent here is good, but almost half of your candidates are converting from pass-rush DE slots in college. There are no guarantees in those scenarios despite the talent level. THOMPSON is the only one listed who didn’t play a DE position in college.He dabbled at RB.
NATE ORCHARD/UTAH
SHAQ THOMPSON/WASHINGTON*
SHANE RAY/MISSOURI*
VICTOR BEASLEY/CLEMSON
ALVIN DUPREE/KENTUCKY
LORENZO MAULDIN/LOUISVILLECB: With a large number of talented juniors coming out this became a position of strength on January 15th. But I still don’t see more than 3 CB really being in demand in Round 1, if that.
TRAE WAYNES/MICHIGAN STATE*
MARCUS PETERS/WASHINGTON*
IFO EKPRE-OLOMU/OREGON#
QUINTEN ROLLINS/MIAMI (O)
P.J. WILLIAMS/FLORIDA STATE*Safety: Much is asked of today’s S slot players. And very few provide the type of coverage and run-stopping skill combination that teams are looking for in Round 1.
LANDON COLLINS/SS/ALABAMA*
CODY PREWITT/S/OLE MISS
ANTHONY HARRIS/VIRGINIA#
JAQUISKI TARRT/SS/SAMFORD
DERRON SMITH/FS/FRESNO STATEAs 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.
The characters behind some of the names are as follows: */official underclassman, #/injury?
Combine Blog
Combine Impressions
Posted: February 24, 2015 | No CommentsHey there, surprise! I bet many of you thought I had gone to Mexico for a winter vacation and missed the Combine. Not the case. I have been immersed in watching and re-watching COMBINE action, and reflecting a bit on what I really think I saw. Hopefully some of you caught some of my daily tweeting. Though I always have some complaints about a few guys who are not invited to the event, let me say that none of the omissions impacted the first couple of rounds. Clearly, what I saw over the past 4 days represents the cream of the current prospect crop plus a very high percentage of the overall Draft. So before I talk about any specific players I’d like to give you my thoughts on strength of position groups for the 2015 Draft.
Overall, I have to say this group of players was not as fast as I had expected, or hoped. I am, in fact, amazed that only 7 players in Indy managed to break the 4.40/40 time barrier. Now having said that, I’m not sure what to think of 3 of those 7 who were not even on my Big Board in the Top 256, or draftable, as it were. JJ NELSON/WR/RS/4.28, CHRIS CONLEY/WR/4.35 & JUSTIN COX/DB/4.36 were certainly under the radar coming into the event. Now we have two months to rewatch some tape and decide if they are big time football players or should be prepping for a sprinters spot for the next Olympic Games.
As far as position group talent is concerned here is what I perceive based on adding Combine numbers to football players’ resumes’ at this point in time.QB This group is strong @ the top with MARIOTA & WINSTON, who both deserve Top 10 draft slots, but lacks depth overall and might not really have another top prospect until Round 3. Out of the 15 players in this group less than half of them may get drafted. I think as many as 5 of these guys should look north of the border for a chance to play sooner and develop their games a bit.
My over/under for QB draftees is 8, more so because of the value placed on the QB position in today’s NFL, not because of excellence.RB The fact that 36 RB/FB were at the Combine should tell you that this position is not forgotten and the talent is fairly deep. I am still thinking that both GORDON & GURLEY are 1st Rounders. But I found it surprising that JEREMY LANGFORD/Michigan State had the fastest time of any RB with a solid 4.42/40. He showed some burst last season for the Spartans, but I would not have predicted he’d be a full tenth of a second faster than GORDON. GURLEY is of course a ? because of his knee injury. And no, I do not blame him for not letting multiple doctors tug and pull at his surgically repaired knee at this point in time. He got full support on that decision from medical savant DR. JAMES ANDREWS. I’ll put the over/under for RB being drafted this year @ 25 from here plus another 2. A good, not great group, which could rank higher if GURLEY’s rehab goes really well.
WR Just as most of us thought this group is very deep and talented. I think as many as 6 guys who weren’t in Indy will get drafted, as well as the vast majority of the guys who were in town for the event. Don’t think this group was elite and really fast? 11 of the fastest 15 players, per 40-times, were from the WR group. Of the 44 WR at the Combine 39 of them ran their 40’s. 19 of the 39 broke the 4.50/40 mark. That is a pretty fast group. 6 WR had Verts of 40″+, 7 guys had hand spreads in excess of 10″. Just throwing some numbers at you, which is what the Combine is all about. I’ll put the draftable WR number at 40 right now. This group is well above average. I see 5 sure fire 1st Rounders here in COOPER, GREEN-BECKHAM, PARKER, STRONG & KEVIN WHITE. My projected over/under for WR draftees from this group is 39, with another 6 from the non-Combine list.
TE This group of 20 pretty much confirmed that the TE group for the 2105 Draft is undermanned in both depth & talent. Only one guy in this group could post a sub 4.6/40, in MYCOLE PRUITT? I was quite surprised that a guy widely considered to be more of a receiver than blocker, GERALD CHRISTIAN/Louisville, weighed in at 244 lbs. and led the group with 28 reps in the Bench Press. MAXX WILLIAMS/Minnesota had a solid overall set of numbers and on-field workout, but IMO it was not of 1st Round caliber. Based on overall numbers there might be only 2-3 TE taken in the Top 100. And it would likely be considered a reach if anyone in this group was tabbed in Round 1. Over/under for total TE taken in the Draft = 13.
OL Despite the fact that the “experts” want to move all the LT prospects to RT and the RT guys inside to OG or even OC this is a good group of prospects. The quality is aided nicely by underclassmen and some small school guys who have really stepped up. There aren’t a lot of bulked up, or fat guys this year with only 7 of 53 topping the scales at 330 lbs or more. But conversely, there were only 4 guys who weighed in at under 300 lbs. Due to various factors 12 of the 53 did not run their 40’s. Of the 41 players who did run only 1 man (ALI MARPET/4.98) broke the 5 second mark. Another 4 men ran under 5.1/40. This was a fairly “long” group with 25 guys 6’5″ or taller. and 16 with 34″ ,or longer, arms. There are several players listed as OG in this group who I feel could handle an OT job (JARVIS HARRISON the best), but the OC group is pretty mediocre unless you throw CAM ERVING/FSU in there from his OT listing. I could see another 6-7 OL taken in Round 1 and up to 20 in the Top 100. Top man in the bench press was ERECK FLOWERS/Miami, with 37 reps at the ripe old age of 20. Here’s an impressive stat for these big guys: 39 OL did the Vertical Jump and 14 of them hit 30″ or more! Just for the heck of it try to find long-sleeve shirts for these guys: TRENTON BROWN/Florida/36″ & CEDRIC OGBUEHI/Texas A&M/35 7/8″! I’ll set the over/under for total draftees from this group of 53 at 37. I think another 6 potential OL draftees were not invited to this Combine.
DL This group gets a bit tricky to evaluate because the NFL, from an official scouting standpoint, is still not separating out the ‘tweener’ group of edge-pass-rushers from the true down linemen. Most of those guys aren’t big enough to play DE, especially in a 3-4 scheme (which is about half the NFL teams), nor are they flexible enough to play full time standing up as true LBs. So let me play around here a bit with a very impressive overall group that the Combine defined as DL. Of the 55 players listed in the DL group, I would peg 16 players as either pure edge rushers or OLB candidates. Of those OLB candidates we would realistically need to differentiate between OLB for 3-4, or 4-3 schemes. Talk about specialization and finding square pegs for square holes… The variables these days between DE/OLB and the schemes they fit best in the pro game can be overwhelming and would explain why teams have those kind of players ranked so differently from team to team. And the weigh-in numbers on some of these guys did not help sort things out. BUD DUPREE/Kentucky weighed in at 269 lbs. but was listed over in the LB group. Meanwhile, RANDY GREGORY/Nebraska came in at 235 lbs., clearly not stout enough to stand up against the run at DE. Conflicting information was flying left and right for evaluators to decipher. But some really full-sized guys pretty much confirmed their potential as 1st Round DL like WILLIAMS, GOLDMAN, SHELTON & ARMSTEAD. Of the 48 guys who ran their 40’s, 26 had sub-5.0 second times. 10 of those sub-5.0 DL weighed 270 lbs. or more. 20 of the 55 DL weighed in over 300 lbs.Interesting number to me was that only 1 DL member had arms of 35″, that being JOEY MBU/Houston, right on the nose.A curious number to me was he fact that 35 reps won the Bench Press for this position group. Two guys did it with very different body types: DEON SIMON @ 321 lbs. & VIC BEASLEY @ 246 lbs. My plus/minus number for Draftees out of this position group is 35 Combine and another 5 who were excluded, for a total of 40.
LB Purely based on numbers this group of 35, as defined as LB, was statistically one of the weakest groups in Indy. I see perhaps 3-4 1st Rounders in the group, but maybe only another 4-5 in the Top 100. Only 4 players in this group ran sub-4.6/40’s. 15 of 35 guys came in at under 6’1″ tall. Yet only 3 players came in at less than 230 lbs. despite the lack of height. MIKE HULL/Penn State led the group with 31 reps in the bench press and though he is 5’117″ tall he does have 30.5″ long arms. Just as folks were about to bury ROD McKINNEY/Mississippi State as unathletic, he maxed out the group with a 40.5″ Vertical, but he also bottomed out the group with 16 reps in the Bench Press.The biggest disappointment of the group was PAUL DAWSON/TCU who had been rising up Draft Boards since the end of the season. His numbers were poor to average in general and he looked disinterested and/or awkward in field drills. He’s going to have to blow up his Pro Day big time now. Remember now, that I estimated another 16 guys in the DL group as actually being more likely NFL LB candidates than DL. But out of this group I would project an over/under of 23 draftees. Add another 4 from the uninvited column for a total of 27.
DB As usual this group was the largest at the proceedings, but only by 1 over the OL group. I thought it was surprising that only 3 of the fastest 15 40-times came from this group. TRAE WAYNES/Michigan State blazed a 4.31/40 to clearly push himself into the elite Top 12 of the Draft category. More about him later, but JUSTIN COX/Miss State tested out as an exceptional athlete and ran a 4.36/40, 6th best overall. Back to the tape on this player boys & girls. RONALD DARBY/FSU posted the 7th fastest time overall with a 4.38/40. The S group is nowhere near as impressive athletically as the CB, and the testing numbers validated that assessment. The fastest S was DAMARIOUS RANDALL/Arizona State @ 4.46, followed by LANDON COLLINS/Alabama & JAQUISKI TARTT/Samford both @ 4.53. 13 DB ran their 40’s in under 4.5 seconds. Overall I would say this was a solid group of DB, but not special athletically. JOSH SHAW/USC was the muscleman of the group with 26 reps on the Bench Press. One of the buzz players of the day was BYRON JONES/UCONN/CB with is 44.5″ Vert & 12’3″ Broad Jump. But he chose not to run. Quite an interesting circumstance that 3 of 4 Louisville DB were in this group.Though his workout numbers were good, KEVIN JOHNSON/CB/Wake Forest a Top 100 prospect projected to be about 5’10 and 175 lbs. checked in at 6’002″ and 188 lbs. Those are money making numbers for him. I also thought it was interesting that of UCF teammates, S/CLAYTON GEATHERS posted a faster 40-time of 4.55 than CB/JACOBY GLENN at 4.64. I’m thinking about 40 of the Combine DB will get drafted, as will another 6 uninvited players putting my over/under @ 46 for the DB group come Draft weekend.
http://gbnreport.com/2015-nfl-draft-player-rankings/top-100-players/
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Agamemnon
http://www.ourlads.com/top-32-college-senior-prospects/nfl-draft/2015/2592129
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AgamemnonPrint and Go Back ESPN.com: NFL Draft 2015 [Print without images]
Monday, February 23, 2015
Updated: February 24, 1:52 PM ET
Five things learned at NFL combine
By John Clayton
ESPN.comA Siberian Express blew through Indianapolis last week and sent temperatures plummeting below zero. Inside Lucas Oil Stadium, however, the NFL scouting combine was red hot with strong performances.
2015 NFL DRAFT
Round 1: April 30, time TBA
NFL Draft Rds. 2-3: May 1, TBA
Rds. 4-7: May 2, TBA
Where: Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, ChicagoScouting combine:
Feb. 17-23NFL draft home page
• 2015 NFL draft Round 1 order
• Mel Kiper Jr.: Mock 2.0
• Todd McShay: Mock 2.0
• Todd McShay’s Top 32
• Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board
• Top 10 NFL prospects by position
• NFL draft player rankingsOf the 309 position players in attendance, 258 ran, and many posted impressive times. With such a high percentage of the pro prospects participating, scouts and general managers head into the pro day workout schedule with plenty of good information already in hand.
There were very few surprises at the combine. The top prospects confirmed their positions, and the No. 1 overall pick was pretty much locked down.
Here are the five things we learned at the 2015 combine.
1. Tennessee Titans are on the clock: Coming into the combine, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers appeared to be leaning toward selecting Florida State QB Jameis Winston with the No. 1 pick. Now, barring an off-the-field incident or an injury, Winston to Tampa Bay appears to be a lock.
Winston had an exceptional combine. By working out Saturday, he showed he’s the best thrower in the draft — even though medical people found a weakness in his right shoulder. Behind the scenes during his interviews, Winston showed he has a great ability to pick up plays on the chalkboard and discuss them. With Winston likely going to Tampa Bay, the Titans, unless they trade the No. 2 overall pick, have the option of taking Oregon QB Marcus Mariota or one of the draft’s top defenders (USC defensive lineman Leonard Williams or Nebraska LB Randy Gregory).
Overall, the willingness of the top quarterbacks to throw raised their ratings. Mariota was a little off on a couple of long throws, but considering he rushed back from a shoulder injury, he made a case to be at least the second quarterback in the draft and locked up a top-six rating. A great debate is shaping up for the No. 3 quarterback slot. With 10½-inch hands, Brett Hundley of UCLA showed a strong arm. Bryce Petty of Baylor had an effortless throwing motion that improved his stock. Brandon Bridge of South Alabama, Sean Mannion of Oregon State and Cody Fajardo of Nevada also did well.
Kevin White
West Virginia’s Kevin White improved his draft stock with a strong combine performance.2. Another great year for wide receivers: Only five of the 44 wide receivers at the combine didn’t run or work out, so scouts and general managers don’t have to travel around the country chasing down receivers for 40-yard dash times. The only first-round prospect who might have hurt himself a little was Michigan’s Devin Funchess, who ran a 4.7-second 40. Overall, the impressions of the receivers were amazing. The tall receivers were fast and caught the ball well.
The big winner was Kevin White of West Virginia. At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, he ran a 4.35 40 and had a 36.5-inch vertical jump. If he once was considered toward the bottom of the first round, his ratings could jump to the middle. It’s not out of the question for him to be drafted in the top 10. Last year, Odell Beckham Jr. was the star of the combine and ended up being the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Amari Cooper of Alabama appears to be the top receiver. He ran a 4.42 40. It will be hard for the Oakland Raiders to pass on him with the No. 4 pick. At 6-2, Devante Parker of Louisville helped his first-round stock with a 4.45 40.
The abundance of talented receivers should have an impact on the free-agent market. It could cause teams to release high-priced receivers such as Mike Wallace, Brandon Marshall and Percy Harvin in order to pick up some of these young receivers.
3. Timing is everything on defense: Teams switching to the 3-4 defense, such as the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills, can benefit from this draft. There could be as many as nine defensive linemen or linebackers taken in the top 20, and most of those players are good fits for the 3-4.
The Broncos may not need a linebacker because they have Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware, but they’ll likely take a close look at the defensive linemen. The Bills have enough good players in their front seven, but the Bears could be all over this class of linebackers and defensive linemen. They tried to upgrade a 4-3 defensive line last year. Now, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio needs to revamp the entire front seven.
Linebacker/defensive end Vic Beasley of Clemson was the big winner over the weekend. He ran a 4.53 40 and bench-pressed 225 pounds 35 times. Gregory of Nebraska did well, running a 4.64. Dante Fowler Jr. of Florida ran a 4.6 40. Shaq Thompson of Washington ran a 4.64. And then there’s Danny Shelton of Washington. The 6-2, 339-pound defensive tackle ran a 5.64 40 and looked so much like Haloti Ngata that he should go in the top 10.
The abundance of talented 3-4 players could cause some teams to steer clear of free-agent pass-rushers such as Brian Orakpo, Pernell McPhee, Derrick Morgan, Brandon Graham and Jabaal Sheard.
4. Running backs didn’t disappoint: What is considered the best running back class since 2008 had solid performances Saturday. Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon bolstered his chance to become the first back since 2012 to go in the first round. He ran a 4.52 40. No back set land-speed records, but just about everybody secured a good rating. A dozen backs could go in the top three rounds. Jeremy Langford of Michigan State might have been the big winner. He likely improved a third-round grade by running a 4.42 40.
Todd Gurley of Georgia seems to be well along in the healing process from ACL surgery. The only loser might have been David Cobb of Minnesota. Cobb injured a quad while running what turned out to be a 4.81 40. His pro day is March 2, which might be too soon for him to run again. At some point, teams will need to get a time on him. He has a third-round grade.
Trae Waynes
Michigan State cornerback Trae Waynes ran the fastest 40-yard dash of any DB at the combine.5. Draft is weak up the middle: Going into the combine, tight end, inside linebacker and safety were considered three of the weaker positions in the draft. Based on the workouts Monday, cornerback also has to be a concern. Cornerback times were slow. Sure, Trae Waynes of Michigan State put himself in position to be a top-10 pick with a 4.31 40 and Byron Jones of Connecticut wowed everyone with a 12-foot, 3-inch broad jump and a 44.5-inch vertical jump, but the rest of the defensive backs group struggled. Even during the NFL Network broadcast, commentators were joking that analyst Deion Sanders might have been the fastest corner on the field. Marcus Peters of Washington (4.53), P.J. Williams of Florida State (4.57) and Quinten Rollins of Miami (Ohio) (4.57) remain lower first-round prospects, but their times didn’t boost their stock.
Landon Collins of Alabama remains the only safety meriting a top-50 selection. No one else really jumped up. Only three defensive backs ran sub-4.4 40s. Maxx Williams of Minnesota (4.78) and Clive Walford of Miami (4.79) remain the only tight ends rated in the top two rounds. No one else stepped up. Eric Kendricks of UCLA had a 4.61 40 to secure his ranking as the top inside linebacker.
http://espn.go.com/espn/print?id=12370875&type=story
Agamemnonhttp://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/mock-draft
Rang, Kirwin, Brugler Mock:
Rang Amari Cooper
Kirwin Andrus Peat
Brugler Kevin Whitew
v
got that. 4 posts ago. 😉
Agamemnon<div class=”d4p-bbt-quote-title”>wv wrote:</div>
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/mock-draftRang, Kirwin, Brugler Mock:
Rang Amari Cooper
Kirwin Andrus Peat
Brugler Kevin Whitew
v<span class=”d4pbbc-font-color” style=”color: blue”>got that. 4 posts ago.
</span>Who do you think the “safest” pick is at 10, Ag ?
A “cant miss” guy.
w
vAmari Cooper, I think he has a bit of Bruce and Holt in him. Collins, Scherff, and White will be good pros. I would stay at #10 and pick them in that order.
AgamemnonNFL
Find this article at: http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473823/article/buckys-big-board-20-dante-fowler-vic-beasley-surge-up
Bucky’s Big Board 2.0: Dante Fowler, Vic Beasley surge upBy Bucky Brooks
NFL Media analyst
Published: Feb. 25, 2015 at 12:27 p.m.
Updated: Feb. 25, 2015 at 03:08 p.m.» Bucky Brooks’ Big Board 1.0
With the NFL Scouting Combine now complete and new information revealed about the top prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft, this is a good time to adjust my Big Board.
While I know my subtle changes will lead to a few interesting comments on Twitter (@BuckyBrooks), I’m more than happy to explain my rankings in greater detail.
1. Leonard Williams, USC, DT
Rise/fall: —
Smooth-moving athlete with explosive quickness and impressive hand skills. Williams is just scratching the surface of his immense potential, but he is clearly the No.1 prospect in the 2015 class.2. Jameis Winston, Florida State, QB
Rise/fall: —
The former Heisman Trophy winner’s off-field behavior overshadows what is a pro-ready passer with a game that is ready for primetime. Winston’s big-game moxie and leadership skills could help him become an elite quarterback early in his career. With Winston blowing scouts and coaches away with his high football IQ, he could rank as the top prospect on several boards.3. Amari Cooper, Alabama, WR
Rise/fall: —
Cooper is a polished playmaker with the tools to be a WR1 in any offense. Cooper is a precise route runner with strong hands and exceptional ball skills, plus he enters the NFL with valuable experience playing multiple positions in a pro-style offense that is the foundation for several teams across the league.4. Kevin White, West Virginia, WR
Rise/fall: —
The big-bodied pass catcher is soaring up the charts after exhibiting an exceptional performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. White is an explosive athlete with exceptional hands and ball skills that remind some evaluators of Larry Fitzgerald.5. Marcus Mariota, Oregon, QB
Rise/fall: —
The Heisman Trophy winner is an ultra-athletic playmaker capable of delivering explosive plays with his feet or arm. Although he will need some time to transition to the pro game after working in the Ducks’ zone-read system, Mariota’s athleticism and impeccable intangibles make him a worthwhile gamble as a franchise quarterback.6. Danny Shelton, Washington, DT
Rise/fall: —
Dominant nose tackle with nimble feet, balance and body control. Shelton controls the point of attack as a run stuffer, yet is a credible threat as a pass rusher from the nose tackle position.7. Dante Fowler, Jr., Florida, DE
Rise/fall: (+7)
Fowler is a hard-nosed football player with outstanding instincts, awareness and anticipation. Fowler silenced the skeptics questioning his lack of key blue-chip traits (first-step quickness and snap-count anticipation) as a pass rusher with his strong performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. He is an ideal “Sam” linebacker with the potential to play over top of tight ends on early downs and rush the passer as a defensive end in a team’s sub-package.8. DeVante Parker, Louisville, WR
Rise/fall: (+1)
Parker is a smooth route runner with outstanding hands and ball skills. He is a natural WR1 with big-play ability on the perimeter, yet is capable of doing all of the dirty work between the hashes.9. Landon Collins, Alabama, S
Rise/fall: (-2)
Collins is a rare breed as a rangy ball hawk with the instincts, toughness and physicality to be an effective run stopper near the box. He can play as a pure SS or make his living patrolling the deep middle as an active FS in a single-high safety system.10. Shane Ray, Missouri, DE
Rise/fall: (+3)
Ray is an explosive pass rusher with rare first-step quickness and burst. He can win with speed or power off the edge, yet displays the hand-to-hand combat skills to escape blockers on inside moves. Ray alleviated concerns about his size at the NFL Scouting Combine, but a medical issue prevented him from showing scouts that he possesses blue-chip athletic traits as a pass rusher.11. Vic Beasley, Clemson, DE/OLB
Rise/fall: (+11)
The most polarizing prospect in the 2015 class possesses rare first-step quickness and burst as a pass rusher. He put on a dominant performance at the NFL Scouting Combine that eliminated concerns over his size and strength at the next level. With an impressive résumé full of splash plays and sack production off the edges, Beasley is certainly in the conversation as one of the blue-chip talents in the draft.12. Randy Gregory, Nebraska, OLB
Rise/fall: (-1)
The ultra-athletic Gregory is a long, rangy pass rusher with a knack for winning off the edge. He lacks elite first-step quickness, but his “bend and burst” makes him a nightmare to defend in one-on-one matchups.13. Andrus Peat, Stanford, OT
Rise/fall: (+2)
The talented technician has been underappreciated throughout the draft process, but Peat will work his way up the charts when teams spend more time investigating his game. He is one of the few left tackle prospects in the class, and his savvy technique and sound footwork will allow him to shine at the marquee position as a pro.14. Arik Armstead, Oregon, DE
Rise/fall: (+2)
It’s uncommon to see a big, athletic defensive end with Armstead’s length, body control and balance. He is just scratching the surface on his talent and potential, yet he is already exhibiting dominant qualities as a classic five-technique.
2015 NFL DRAFT
(April 30-May 2 on NFL Network)Prospects: By name | Position | School
Mock drafts:
Jeremiah 3.0: Rams move on at QB
Davis 1.0: Winston falls to Rams
Zierlein 1.0: Enticing Winston-Evans duo
Brooks 1.0: Winston is right fit for BucsProspect rankings:
Mayock’s top 5 by position rankings
Jeremiah’s Top 50 draft prospect rankings
Bucky’s Big Board 2.0: Williams still No. 1
Brooks’ top 5 by position rankingsMore draft coverage:
Tracking 7 prospects’ draft journeys
Jeremiah: Draftee doppelgangers
Silver: Winston cements top pick status
CFB 24/7: Full ‘Path to Draft’ coverage15. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin, RB
Rise/fall: (-5)
Gordon is the most explosive runner in the 2015 draft class. He possesses the speed, quickness and burst to turn the corner, yet also flashes the power to survive and thrive between the tackles. Critics will suggest he is the product of the Badgers’ system, but Gordon is a more talented back than the other runners who’ve thrived in the scheme before him.16. La’el Collins, LSU, OT
Rise/fall: (+7)
Collins is a rugged blocker with a powerful frame and solid technical skills. He is ideally suited to play right tackle or guard as a pro, but a team in need of a marquee tackle will give him every opportunity to play on the left to see if he has the savvy and athleticism to neutralize elite rushers in the NFL.17. Trae Waynes, Michigan State, CB
Rise/fall: (+2)
After playing field corner (wide side of the field) for the Spartans a season ago because of Darqueze Dennard’s presence, Waynes displayed impressive talents as a lockdown corner in man coverage in 2014. He thrived as the Spartans’ boundary corner (short side of the field) while exhibiting the footwork, athleticism and grit evaluators desire in top defensive backs.18. Brandon Scherff, Iowa, OT
Rise/fall: (-10)
Scherff is a big, physical edge blocker with exceptional strength and power. He might lack the athleticism to handle elite rushers off the edge, but he could move inside and become an elite offensive guard in a power-based offense.19. Eddie Goldman, Florida State, DT
Rise/fall: (-7)
It’s hard to find athletic interior defenders with Goldman’s combination of size, strength and quickness. He can win with power or finish at the point of attack and shows a non-stop motor for a 300-pound playmaker.20. Ereck Flowers, Miami (Fla.), OT
Rise/fall: (-3)
Scouts are raving about Flowers’ potential as a left tackle because of his balance, body control and agility. Although he remains a work in progress at the position, he exhibits the blue-chip traits evaluators covet in standout edge blockers at the next level.21. Marcus Peters, Washington, CB
Rise/fall: (-3)
Despite the character concerns scouts have about Peters after his midseason dismissal at Washington, the long, rangy cover corner is arguably the most talented player at the position. He is a natural bump-and-run corner capable of also playing in zone coverage utilizing “off” technique and a polished back pedal.
PATH TO THE DRAFT
(Weekdays at 6 p.m. ET on NFL Network)“Path to the Draft” previews the 2015 NFL Draft by providing in-depth expert analysis of the top prospects and each teams’ needs.
‘Path to the Draft’ videos
NFL Network broadcast schedule
CFB 24/7: More draft coverage22. Todd Gurley, Georgia, RB
Rise/fall: (-2)
If not for an ACL injury that prematurely ended Gurley’s junior season, he would rank as a top-10 talent on this list. He is a big-bodied runner with exceptional balance, vision, body control and burst. If Gurley returns to form in 2015, the NFL must prepare for a Marshawn Lynch-like clone with big-time potential.23. Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri, WR
Rise/fall: (+4)
The ultra-talented pass catcher is the biggest wild card in the 2015 class because of the risk vs. reward question that scouts will face regarding his playmaking potential and character concerns. On the field, he is a matchup nightmare with the size, athleticism and ball skills to dominate smallish defenders on the perimeter.24. T.J. Clemmings, Pittsburgh, OT
Rise/fall: (-3)
A disappointing Senior Bowl exposed Clemmings’ inexperience and limitations at offensive tackle, but the defensive end-turned-pass protector remains a tantalizing talent with big-time potential. He is light and active on his feet and displays the body control needed to eventually transition to left tackle as a pro.25. Maxx Williams, Minnesota, TE
Rise/fall: (-1)
Williams isn’t a household name, but offensive coordinators around the NFL are salivating over his potential as a between-the-hashes playmaker. He is an exceptional pass catcher with strong hands and ball skills. He will remind some evaluators of a young Jeremy Shockey on the perimeter.26. Benardrick McKinney, Mississippi State, ILB
Rise/fall: (-1)
There is always a place in the NFL for a hard-nosed inside linebacker with outstanding instincts, awareness and anticipation. McKinney is a thumper in the middle, and his menacing presence will upgrade a defense in need of a playmaker in the box.27. Malcom Brown, Texas, DT
Rise/fall: (-1)
Brown is a classic nose tackle with the size and girth to hold the point of attack in the middle. Brown is adept at snuffing out the run and flashes enough rush skills to push the pocket up the gut.28. Denzel Perryman, Miami (Fla.), ILB
Rise/fall: —
After dominating practices at the Senior Bowl, Perryman has the scouting community buzzing about his prospects as a “Mike” linebacker in the NFL. He is one of the most ferocious hitters in the college game, and his instincts could make him a star at the next level. Concerns about his size will ding him on some boards, but he is steady player with outstanding production against big-time competition.29. Jaelen Strong, Arizona State, WR
Rise/fall: —
Strong is a rangy pass catcher with outstanding ball skills and hands. He is an intriguing WR1 candidate because of his size, but he must display better route-running skills and explosiveness in workouts to solidify that opinion in league circles.30. Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest, CB
Rise/fall: (+1)
Johnson is a solid cover corner with the length and instincts to be a solid starter in the NFL. He lacks elite speed or burst, but consistently wins in coverage with savvy and guile.31. Devin Smith, Ohio State, WR
Rise/fall: (NR)
Smith is a speed demon with the burst and explosiveness to develop into a big-time playmaker in a vertical offense. Smith displays impressive stop-start quickness getting in and out of his cuts; he is also a natural pass catcher with strong hands and ball skills.32. Cameron Erving, Florida State, C
Rise/fall: (NR)
The move to center during the middle of the season might help Erving come off the draft board on Day 1. He is a big, athletic interior blocker with the strength to neutralize massive defensive tackles at the point of attack. With Erving also displaying the athleticism and versatility to play outside in a pinch, it’s easy to get excited about his prospects as a possible swing player as a pro.Dropped out of previous Big Board: Devin Funchess, WR, Michigan (31); Shaq Thompson, OLB, Washington (32)
Follow Bucky Brooks on Twitter @BuckyBrooks.
Agamemnon2015 NFL Mock Draft: McShay 3.0 Has Rams Picking Up WR At 10
By 3k
@3k_ on Feb 26, 2015, 10:03a 168
Kevin Liles-USA TODAY SportsESPN’s Todd McShay has his third mock draft out pegging the Rams to add some offensive firepower in the 1st round.
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PinTodd McShay dropped his third mock of the season (insider subscription required because boo). Top 9:
# Team Pick POS School
1 Tampa Bay Jameis Winston QB Florida St.
2 Tennessee Leonard Williams DL USC
3 Jacksonville Dante Fowler Jr. DE Florida
4 Oakland Kevin White WR West Virginia
5 Washington Randy Gregory DE Nebraska
6 New York Jets Marcus Mariota QB Oregon
7 Chicago Danny Shelton DT Washington
8 Atlanta Shane Ray DE Missouri
9 New York Giants Brandon Scherff OT IowaNothing crazy here. Tons of options for the Rams. McShay goes with:
Amari Cooper (WR, Alabama)The Rams’ biggest need is at quarterback, but in this scenario they aren’t getting one. We don’t project trades in these mocks, and it’s hard to see St. Louis being able to draft Winston or Mariota on April 30 without trading up to do so. The next-biggest need is offensive line, but with Scherff off the board, there isn’t a great value match at this point. (My highest-rated tackle is Andrus Peat, but he’s more of a pure left tackle who doesn’t fit this team’s physical approach perfectly.) So I have them filling their need at wide receiver with a great value pick in Cooper, our No. 3 overall player. He is NFL-ready with great savvy as a route runner, separation skills, ball skills and run-after-catch ability. His 4.42 40-yard dash at the combine confirmed he has good speed.
http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/2/26/8114495/2015-nfl-mock-draft-todd-mcshay
Agamemnon2015 NFL Mock Draft: Scherff and Funchess Headed to St. Louis Rams
By Brandon Bate
@NoPlanB_ on Feb 24, 2015, 9:25a 29
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY SportsWith the 2015 NFL Combine wrapped up, observations of the risers and fallers were bound to reshape the world of mock draft-ery. Let’s have a look…
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PinMatt Miller, Bleacher Report’s draft expert, released his updated 2015 NFL mock draft on Tuesday morning, fresh off the completion of the Combine. And with a little over two months remaining before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the clock with the first overall pick, here’s how Miller sees it all panning out [two rounds]…
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
2. Tennessee Titans: Leonard Williams, DT, USC
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Randy Gregory, DE/OLB, Nebraska
4. Oakland Raiders: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
5. Washington Redskins: Dante Fowler, DE/OLB, Florida
6. New York Jets: Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
7. Chicago Bears: Danny Shelton, DT, Washington
8. Atlanta Falcons: Shane Ray, DE/OLB, Missouri
9. New York Giants: Amari Cooper, WR, AlabamaAnd with the St. Louis Rams on the clock with the 10th overall pick, they select…
10. Brandon Scherff, OL, IowaThe St. Louis Rams are facing another offseason of uncertainty along the offensive line, but this time they have an anchor in No. 2 overall pick Greg Robinson from the 2014 class and left guard Rodger Saffold. Now they just have to fill out the rest of the starting gigs.
Jake Long may be back in 2015, but he also may not be due to injuries and salary-cap room. Whether he is or isn’t a Ram next year, Brandon Scherff is an ideal fit for this team. The Iowa left tackle projects best to guard, but could have a long, fruitful career at right tackle given his strength in the run game. He’s technically savvy in tight windows and can be a dominant run-blocker on the strong side.Fast forward to the 2nd round, where the Rams pick 9th…
33. Tennessee Titans: P.J. Williams, CB, FSU
34. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Benardrick McKinney, ILB, Miss. St.
35. Oakland Raiders: Alex Carter, CB, Stanford
36. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eric Kendricks, ILB, UCLA
37. New York Jets: Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford
38. Washington Redskins: T.J. Clemmings, OT, Pitt
39. Chicago Bears: Paul Dawson, ILB, TCU
40. New York Giants: Preston Smith, DE, Miss. St.41. Devin Funchess, WR, Michigan
Many are of the mindset the Rams will indeed look for receiver help in the draft, and it could be one of the team’s top priorities. It should be noted that the 4.70 forty yard dash time was the slowest logged time according to NFL’s official stat tracker. Miller references his potential utilization as a tight end in the NFL. Lance Zierlein, from NFL.com, compares the 6’4″ receiver to Cowboys’ tight end Gavin Escobar.For more on Funchess, and his less-than-stellar combine performance:
Players Who Helped/Hurt Their Stock at the Combine | NFL.com
Funchess Struggles at the Combine | NFL.comA few things to note
* Missouri WR Dorial Green-Beckham, who some think may fall due to off-field issues, is taken 15th overall by the San Francisco 49ers
* The Arizona Cardinals, picking 24th, select Eli Harold [DE/OLB] from Virginia
* The Seattle Seahawks, picking 31st, take Owa Odighizuwa [DE/OLB] out of UCLA
* Tony Pauline, from Draft Insider, recently stated the Rams could be eyeing linebackers in the the early rounds of the draft. Benardrick McKinney and Eric Kendricks, two of the top ILB prospects, both fall into the 2nd round
* Offensive Tackles Andrus Peat and T.J. Clemmings are both prospects seen mocked to the Rams at 10th overall. Both fell into the 2nd round [5th and 6th, respectively] in Miller’s mock.
* The WR’s still on the board in the 2nd when the Rams selected Funchess were: Devin Smith [Ohio St.], Nelson Agholor [USC], Phillip Dorsett [Miami], Breshad Perriman [UCF] AgamemnonScouting Reports 2015: The Receivers
By misone
@MightyOrMisone on Feb 25, 2015, 7:05a 46
Brett Davis-USA TODAY SportsThere will not be as many first round pick wide receivers as last year, and we probably wont see as many receivers drafted in the first three rounds either. But the talent is almost just as rich for who’s available and we may see more immediate impacts…
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PinThis year’s group of wide receivers will almost certainly continue the trend of young receivers stepping in and making an immediate difference. There’s simply not much of a gap between my top ranked receiver, and my third ranked receiver. They are all pretty much neck and neck and neck, although for different reasons. There aren’t as many difference makers available as last yr, but they should give defensive coordinators fits all the same. Well maybe not the same. I don’t think there’s an Odell Beckham, but I do think there might be one of the most dominant receivers to come out since……
***ALL PLAYER COMPARISONS ARE BASED OFF OF SKILL SET AND BODY TYPES, NOT A PREDICTION OF CAREERS***
Dorial Green-Beckham
6’5″ 237 lbs MizzouPOSITIVES:
Freakish size
Ridiculously athletic
Uses his frame to his advantage
Wins jump balls effortless and consistently
Much faster than his frame would indicate
Explosive
Great open field runner
Very fluid runner
Extremely strong
Very difficult to tackle
Fights for the ball
Plays fearless
Very physical
Tracks the ball extremely well
Has a sneaky second gear in the open fieldNEGATIVES:
Needs to learn the full route tree
Has never played in a pro style offense
Has to sit down his routes
Needs to get lower coming out of breaks
Extremely concerning off-field trouble
Let’s some balls get into his bodyTHE BREAKDOWN: Dorial Green-Beckham might be the most dominant receiver the NFL has had since Megatron. He is basically a young Decepticon. He could prove to be the most physically gifted player – not just receiver – in the entire draft. Just off of pure size, speed and athletic ability – and how it all transitions to the field – Green-Beckham should be the number one overall pick, and number 3 at the latest. Dorial is that rare prospect who comes along once every 8-10 years for his position. He really has shown an unbelievable understanding of how to use his body and speed from day one. With that being said, his character red flags remind me a lot of Josh Gordon. Just a bunch of absolutely bone-headed mistakes. One after another. I always say when someone continues to do the same thing over and over and not learning their lesson, you probably shouldn’t trust them. Or as Albert Einstein said “crazy is a person that does the same thing over and over, and expects different results.” If Green-Beckham can stay out of trouble and stay healthy, he has the potential to be one of the best to ever do it.
PLAYER COMPARISON: Calvin Johnson
Amari Cooper
6’1″ 211 lbs AlabamaPOSITIVES:
Superb route runner
Very good at high point the ball
Fundamentally sound
Explodes out of breaks
Has a second gear
Natural hands catcher
Explosive
Hard worker
Has very good open field vision
Very consistent
Stronger than he looks
Can run the complete route tree
Comes from a pro style offense
Not afraid to go over the middle
Beats the press quickly
Very polishedNEGATIVES:
Has some injury history
A little smaller than ideal
Could be more physical
May be close to max potentialTHE BREAKDOWN: Amari Cooper is one of the most polished and pro ready prospects in the entire draft, regardless of position. From the first day he stepped onto Alabama’s campus he has been a difference maker. He regularly beat double teams and he made jump balls look as if he was 6’6″ with a 40 in vertical. His best skill may be his route running. He runs his routes effortlessly, and comes out of his breaks with explosion and determination. He does however come with a few injury red flags. You would love to see him play more physical at times, but considering his injury history that might not be the best decision. He is a bit smaller than what you would like for a primary receiver to be, but it shouldn’t hold him back from being a very good receiver for a long time. But the question remain; “how much better will he become?”
PLAYER COMPARISON: Jeremy Maclin
Kevin White
6’3″ 215 West VirginiaPOSITIVES:
Plays with a huge chip on his shoulder
Best hands in the draft
Makes tough catches look routine
Ball never touches his body
Very confident
Great after catch ability
Fiery competitor
Very elusive for his size
Has great field awareness
Extremely physical
Hard to tackle
Jump balls are his almost every time
Does not drop passes
Extremely strong
Beats the press with quick feet and hand usage
Plays tough and fearless
Very ExplosiveNEGATIVES:
One year wonder
Limited route tree
Questionable top end speedTHE BREAKDOWN: Every year there’s a couple of players that stick out to me for different reasons. Not many, maybe 3-5 max! This year is no different. One of those players happens to be Kevin White. There’s something special about this kid – you can see it in him – and he will be a force to be reckoned with. White is special, and that’s about the only way I know how to put it. But I have major concerns with two things: A.) his adjusting to the pro style offense B.) He’s only a one year wonder. One year wonder’s scare the hell out of me. But with White, every time that fear starts to rear its face, that special feeling comes storming back into mind. He explodes with his first couple of steps, and plays angry from that point on. His ability to catch the ball is special though. He has rare hands, and he attacks the ball every snap.
PLAYER COMPARISON: Andre Johnson
Justin Hardy
5’11” 192 lbs East CarolinaPOSITIVES:
Very productive
Extremely consistent
Plays much bigger than size
Very physical
Great leader
Plays fast
Great route runner
A technician
Goes up and gets the ball
Understands zones and sits down routes
Very good hands
Made a lot of clutch catches
Very good run after catch
Can play all wide out spots
Can return
Very quickNEGATIVES:
Major questions regarding top end speed
Smaller than ideal
Receiver friendly system
Very new to position (former QB)
Already close to maxed outTHE BREAKDOWN: Justin Hardy has a knack for making tough catches. He also has a knack for shaking loose and getting into the open field. He has been very productive especially when you consider he has only been playing the position for the last four seasons. Usually this means there is a lot of room to grow, but not in this case. He looks like he’s already close to maxing out his talent. This does not mean he won’t get any better, just that we have just about seen the best he has to offer. He will most likely develop into a strong number two option that can step in as a one, as needed. I like what he has to offer a lot. He will be a legit steal.
PLAYER COMPARISON: Golden Tate
Rashad Greene
5’11” 182 lbs Florida St.POSITIVES:
Amazing route runner
Very productive
Extremely experienced
Very Consistent
Great hands
Very tough
Plays a lot bigger than his size
Plays very fast
Surprisingly good at winning jump balls
Very quick
Makes the first tackler miss very often
Does a great job breaking arm tackles
Good returner
Great leader
Winning mentality
Can play slot and out wide
Has shown a second gearNEGATIVES:
Lacks size
High floor, but low ceiling
Struggled with the jam
Does not show a lot of explosionTHE BREAKDOWN: For Rashad Greene there aren’t a lot of flaws with his game. If you can get past his size, you will undoubtedly fall in love. He will be one of the steals of this draft. He will bring a lot of experience and leadership. Green catches the ball very well, and regardless of his size, will go over the middle in traffic and snag it fearlessly. He has to learn to use his quickness to beat jams. He does not have much room for growth, but should be a guy who can step in and make an impact, especially if he plays with a decent QB. His strength is his route running. He’s not a blazer – but has good speed – and clearly he doesn’t body defenders. He is going to make a lot of great catches in his career.
PLAYER COMPARISON: Marvin Harrison
***THE ROUND PROJECTIONS ARE PROJECTIONS BASED OFF WHERE I THINK THEY WILL BE DRAFTED AND NOT MY PERSONAL OPINION OF WHERE THEY SHOULD BE DRAFTED***
http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/2/25/8077459/scouting-reports-2015-the-receivers
Agamemnon -
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