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Rams currently scheduled to pick 12th in NFL draft
2 hours ago • By Jim ThomasIf the NFL draft were held today, the Rams would be picking 12th. And with just one week left in the regular season, they will be picking somewhere in that neighborhood _ give or take a pick or two either way,
The 2015 draft is scheduled for April 30-May 2.
Even if the Rams lose Sunday’s season finale at Seattle and finish 6-10, they cannot draft higher than Tampa Bay (2-13), Tennessee (2-13), Jacksonville (3-12), Oakland (3-12), the New York Jets (3-12), Washington (4-11) or Chicago (5-10).
Even if Chicago won its finale at Minnesota to finish 6-10, a 6-10 Rams team would draft behind the Bears because of the strength of schedule tie-breaker.
So the highest the Rams could draft is eighth, and that’s assuming the Rams lose to Seattle while four other 6-9 teams _ Atlanta, Minnesota, the New York Giants, and New Orleans _ all win their finales. Obviously, it’s highly unlikely that all four teams will win.
Once again, the Rams are playing one of the league’s toughest schedules, with their opponents’ a combined 17 games above .500. Atlanta, Minnesota, the Giants, and New Orleans all have played significantly easier schedules than St. Louis; that’s why all would draft ahead of the Rams in the case of identical records.
If the Rams should upset Seattle to finish 7-9, they could end up drafting as low as 15th overall. That would happen if Cleveland (7-8), San Francisco (7-8), and Carolina (6-8-1) all lost their finales.
AgamemnonGBN BIG BOARD
TOP PROSPECTS FOR THE 2015 DRAFT
(* indicates underclassman; (O) indicates off-field issue; (N) indicates other non-football issue; and (X) indicates injury that could cloud draft status)December 16, 2014
*Leonard Williams DE Southern California
*Marcus Mariota QB Oregon
*Randy Gregory DE Nebraska (X)
*Jameis Winston QB Florida State (O)
*Shane Ray LB Missouri
*Amari Cooper WR Alabama
Brandon Scherff OT Iowa
*Landon Collins SS Alabama
*Shawn Oakman DE Baylor (O)
Vic Beasley LB Clemson
*Dante Fowler DE Florida
http://www.gbnreport.com/top100.htmlDavante Parker WR Louisville (X)
Cedric Ogbuehi OT Texas A&M
Danny Shelton DT Washington
Kevin White WR West Virginia
**Shaq Thompson OLB Washington
La’el Collins G/T LSU
Bud Dupree DE Kentucky
*Mel Gordon RB Wisconsin
*Andrus Peat OT Stanford
*Dorial Green-Beckham WR Oklahoma (O)
*Ronnie Stanley OT Notre Dame
*Trae Waynes CB Michigan State
T.J. Clemmings OT Pittsburgh
*Eddie Goldman DT Florida State
*Devin Funchess WR Michigan (TE)
*Todd Gurley RB Georgia (O/X)
*Jaelen Strong WR Arizona State
*Bernardrick McKinney LB Mississippi State
*Tevin Coleman RB Indiana
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu CB Oregon (X)
*Shilique Calhoun DE Michigan State
*Arik Armstead DT Oregon (X/DE)
*Ereck Flowers OT Miami (X)
*Danielle Hunter DE LSU
*Sammie Coates WR Auburn
*PJ Williams CB Florida State
*Malcolm Brown DT Texas
AJ Cann OG South Carolina
Nate Orchard DE Utah (OLB)
Ty Sambrailo OT Colorado State
*Brett Hundley QB UCLA
Markus Golden DE Missouri
Cameron Erving C/T Florida State
*Marcus Peters CB Washington (O)
*DeForest Buckner DE Oregon
Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska (X)
Ty Montgomery WR Stanford
*Spencer Drango OT Baylor
Michael Bennett DT Ohio State
Tyrus Thompson OT Oklahoma
Lorenzo Mauldin OLB Louisville
Cody Prewitt FS Mississippi
Carl Davis DT Iowa
*Duke Johnson RB Miami
*Nelson Aghobor WR Southern California
Darryl Williams OT Oklahoma
Denzel Perryman LB Miami
*Mario Edwards DE Florida State
Hau’oli Kikaha OLB Washington
*TJ Yeldon RB Alabama
Quinton Rollins CB Miami (OH)
*Gerod Holliman FS Louisville
*Jarran Reed DT Alabama
*Eli Harold OLB Virginiaton
Derron Smith FS Fresno State
*D’Haquille Williams WR Auburn
Senquez Golson CB Mississippi
Bryce Petty QB Baylor
*Mike Davis RB South Carolina (X)
*Devonte Fields DE Trinity Valley CC (O)
*Maxx Williams TE Minnesota
Jake Fisher OT Oregon
Eric Kendricks LB UCLA
*Dak Prescott QB Mississippi State
*Jay Ajayi RB Boise State
Josue Matias OG Florida State
Anthony Harris FS Virginia
Rashad Greene WR Florida State
*Erik Striker LB Oklahoma
Reese Dismukes C Auburn
Jeremy Langford RB Michigan State
*LeRaven Clark OT Texas Tech
Josh Harper WR Fresno State
D’Jhoun Smith CB Florida Atlantic
Nick O’Leary TE Florida State
Trey Flowers DE Arkansas
Hronas Grasu C Oregon
Tyler Lockett WR Kansas State
Sean Hickey OT Syracuse
*Noah Spence LB Ohio State (O/DE)
Kurt Drummond FS Michigan State
*Javoris Allen RB Southern California
*Ronald Darby CB Florida State
Arie Kouandjio OG Alabama
Shane Carden QB East Carolina
*Roberto Aguayo PK Florida State
Vince Mayle WR Washington State
Gabe Wright DT Auburn
*Lorenzo Doss CB Tulane
Eric Lefeld OT Cincinnati
*Terrance Smith LB Florida State
David Cobb RB Minnesota
Clive Walford TE Miami
*Durrell Eskridge FS Syracuse
Justin Hardy WR East Carolina
Owamagbe Odighzuwa DE UCLA
Cameron Artis-Payne RB Auburn
*Charles Gaines CB Louisville
Jarvis Harrison OG Texas A&M
Zach Hodges LB Harvard (DE)
Antwan Goodley WR Baylor
*Chris Covington DT Rice
Phillip Dorsett WR Miami
Preston Smith DE Mississippi State
Malcolm Brown RB Texas
Kevin Johnson CB Wake Forest
*Isaac Seumalo C Oregon State (X)
Jacquiski Tartt FS Samford
Corey Robinson OT South Carolina
ZaDarius Smith DE Kentucky
Tony Lippett WR Michigan State
Lynden Trail LB Norfolk State (DE)
Ben Koyack TE Notre Dame
Corey Crawford DE Clemson
Dres Anderson WR Utah (X)
*Matt Brown RB Florida
Tyeler Davison DT Fresno State
Rob Havenstein G/T Wisconsin
Byron Jones CB UConn
*Austin Hill WR Arizona (O)
Jake Ryan LB Michigan (X)
BJ Finney C Kansas State
Frank Clark DE Michigan (O)
*Stefon Diggs WR Maryland (X)
Grady Jarrett DT Clemson
Karlos Williams RB Florida State
*Tyler Kroft TE Rutgers
Jordan Richards FS Stanford
Chuckie Hunter DT TCU
Tre Jackson OG Florida State
Henry Anderson DE Stanford
Devin Smith WR Ohio State
Doran Grant CB Ohio State
Jordan Hicks LB Texas
Cedric Reed DE Texas
Jalston Fowler FB Alabama
Steve Nelson CB Oregon State
David Johnson RB Northern Iowa
Louis Trinca-Pasat DT Iowa
Laken Tomlinson OG Duke
Geno Grissom LB Oklahoma
Kevin White CB TCU AgamemnonIt would be funny (ha ha)
if the Rams drafted
Kevin White
of
W
V
U
w
vHe would be fine, but I don’t think we especially need any more playmakers. imo
West Virginia WR Kevin White, 6-3, 209, Sr., 4.49: No player has improved his draft stock more in 2014 than White. It isn’t just his production (102 catches for 1,318 yards and nine touchdowns) that impresses scouts. White’s size, strength and ability to come down with contested grabs is something that every team in the NFL is wants at the position.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/big-board
Agamemnoni think Seattle will draft him.
i figure he’ll be a late first rounder.w
vSeattle doesn’t waste draft choices on WRs, except, Percy Harven. 😉
Agamemnon2015 NFL mock draft: Marcus Mariota or Jameis Winston for the Buccaneers?
By Dan Kadar
The No. 1 overall pick is going to get exhaustively scrutinized for the next four months. Tampa Bay will likely be choosing between two Heisman Trophy winners with the Tennessee Titans taking the other one with the No. 2 pick.
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ShareShould the Tampa Bay Buccaneers use the No. 1 pick in the draft on Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota or Florida State’s signal caller James Winston? That is going to be the biggest storyline to follow throughout the 2015 NFL Draft process. It’s going to get obnoxious.
It’s going to be like the beaten into the ground discussion of Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III in 2012. Or like Peyton Manning versus Ryan Leaf in 1998. Hopefully neither Mariota or Winston turns out to be the second coming of Leaf, but there’s truly no way of knowing right now.
The other key storyline about the 2015 draft is that it should be wide open after the top two quarterbacks are taken. The draft looks like it will be a deep one, but there are few certain franchise players. Because of that, some of the players who are high picks in this mock draft may not get picked this highly after the process plays out. Of course, what would be the fun of things if we knew exactly who was going where?
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marcus Mariota, QB, OregonMariota is the pick for now before the complete vetting of he and Winston begins. He’s a highly skilled quarterback who is smart with the football and has steadily progressed as a pocket passer. Mariota truly becomes a special player, however, when a play breaks down and he uses his feet. Coming out of Oregon, he’s an advanced version of Colin Kaepernick – and that’s more of a compliment than it probably seems right now.
2. Tennessee Titans: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida StateDespite a report to the contrary, the Titans shouldn’t be content with Zach Mettenberger knowing that they can get a quarterback like Winston in the first round. It’s true that Winston has some decision making issues – on the field and off it – but when he’s on, he’s the best player in college football. If he can turn it on in the NFL like he often did at Florida State, he could be the second coming of Ben Roethlisberger.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Randy Gregory, DE, NebraskaThe Jaguars have options at No. 3. They could go with whomever they think is the best offensive tackle in the draft or pick up a star defensive lineman like Leonard Williams of Southern California. Or they could choose Gregory, the prototype for a Leo if there has ever been one. Gregory is at his best when lined up wide, so he could thrive in Gus Bradley’s defense.
4. Oakland Raiders: Amari Cooper, WR, AlabamaThere should be a strong temptation to go with Williams, but the Raiders severely lack talent at wide receiver. Cooper is the top player at the position in the draft and would give Derek Carr a legitimate weapon. Cooper can do it all as a receiver and can be utilized on special teams.
5. Washington: Leonard Williams, DE/DT, Southern CaliforniaThe Redskins have much greater needs than a defensive lineman: an outside linebacker if they stick with the 3-4, a safety and an offensive lineman come to mind. But Williams, arguably the draft’s best and safest player, is far too good to pass up with the fifth pick.
6. New York Jets: Brandon Scherff, OT, IowaIs the No. 6 pick in the draft too high to select a right tackle? That’s the question the Jets’ front office will be asking itself throughout the offseason. If the conclusion is no, and it should be, Scherff is the team’s best option. He’s a tough run blocker and arguably the strongest lineman in the draft.
7. Chicago Bears: Landon Collins, S, AlabamaThis could be said about several teams picking in the top 10, but it’s hard to peg what the Bears could do considering there could be an organizational shakeup. Regardless of the team’s direction, safety has long been a need for the Bears. Collins is unquestionably the best in the draft. A pass rusher is another possibility in the first round for Chicago.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Vic Beasley, OLB/DE, ClemsonIt was apparent throughout the season that the Falcons just didn’t generate enough of a pass rush. What type of pass rusher will hinge on what scheme they’ll run in 2015. If they stick with the 3-4, an outside linebacker like Beasley is a nice fit. Shane Ray of Missouri would also be in contention, but Beasley is faster, longer and more athletic.
9. New York Giants: Shane Ray, OLB/DE, MissouriArguably the biggest strength in the draft this year is pass rusher. That’s good news for the Giants. Even if two edge players get picked ahead of them, there will still be a good one around with the ninth pick. In this scenario, it’s Ray. Coming off a sensational season at Missouri, Ray could step in at end or be a stand up rusher.
10. St. Louis Rams: La’el Collins, OT, LSU
Yes, this would mark the second year in a row where the Rams used a top 10 pick on an offensive tackle after picking Greg Robinson at No. 2 in May. He had a shaky rookie season, however, and Collins is the type of player who could give St. Louis options. Collins has shined at left tackle for LSU, has the playing style to succeed on the right side and the pure power to be a guard.
11. Minnesota Vikings: DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville
The idea of going with Teddy Bridgewater’s top target in college is too good to pass over. Parker and Kevin White of West Virginia are both highly rated, but Bridgewater’s timing with Parker has real value. Offensive linemen, a pass rusher and a middle linebacker are other options for the Vikings.
12. Cleveland Browns: Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida StateMost point to a wide receiver or an offensive lineman as the Browns’ top need, but this is a team that finished last in the league in run defense. Ahtyba Rubin is entering free agency and Goldman is an incredible pure athlete for a defensive tackle and could fill his spot.
13. New Orleans Saints: Marcus Peters, CB, WashingtonThe Saints may have used a second-round pick on Stanley Jean-Baptiste in this year’s draft, but he just couldn’t get on the field. Peters is the draft’s best cornerback and could jump into a starting spot opposite Keenan Lewis.
14. Miami Dolphins: Shaq Thompson, LB, WashingtonKoa Misi played middle linebacker for the Dolphins this season, and was serviceable. He’s better on the outside, though. A player like Thompson has the skill set to play inside or on the weak side. He would give Miami a dynamic, versatile athlete on defense.
15. San Francisco 49ers: Kevin White, WR, West VirginiaMichael Crabtree is a free agent, Anquan Boldin turns 35 next season and frankly the 49ers don’t have much talent at the position otherwise. White is a lot like DeAndre Hopkins of the Houston Texans. He has enough size and athleticism to go along with good hands.
16. Houston Texans: Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan StateFormer first-round pick Kareem Jackson is entering free agency, and if he’s not brought back corner becomes a top need for Houston. Waynes is a man coverage specialist with good length to challenge bigger receivers.
17. San Diego Chargers: Danny Shelton, DT, WashingtonThere are a number of different ways the Chargers could go with their first-round pick. A corner could be brought in if Brandon Flowers isn’t re-signed. They could look to beef up the offensive line or consider a running back. Another piece along the defensive line would boost one of the league’s worst run defenses. Shelton plugs up the middle and still manages to get after the quarterback.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: Andrus Peat, OT, StanfordYes, the Chiefs need a wide receiver. But two seasons may be enough time to give up on Eric Fisher as a left tackle, particularly if Peat is available. Peat has proven that he has the footwork to pick up speed rushers and the power to be a quality run blocker.
19. Cleveland Browns (via Buffalo Bills): Jaelen Strong, WR, Arizona StateJosh Gordon’s time in Cleveland seems to be coming to an unceremonious ending. If the Browns get rid of him, there is a glaring need for a wide receiver with size. Strong excels at working vertical routes outside and easily out jumps most defensive backs.
20. Philadelphia Eagles: P.J. Williams, CB, Florida StateThe Eagles have one of the worst group of cornerbacks in the league. Williams would be a nice infusion of talent in the secondary and he fits the mold as a bigger corner.
21. Carolina Panthers: Ereck Flowers, OT, MiamiThere may be higher rated offensive tackles on the board – namely Cedric Ogbuehi of Texas A&M and T.J. Clemmings of Pittsburgh – but they’re more right tackles going forward. Flowers has the potential to stick on the left side because of his footwork. He would fill Carolina’s most pressing need.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Dante Fowler, DE/OLB, FloridaWhile the Ravens do have Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs, Pernell McPhee played more than 500 snaps at outside linebacker this season. If he priced himself out of town via free agency, Fowler would be a steal this late in the first round. He’s a relentless player and could be a star in Baltimore’s scheme.
23. Cincinnati Bengals: Shawn Oakman, DE, BaylorThe Bengals need a pass rusher and would find a big one with Oakman here. Oakman could be Michael Johnson 2.0 for the Bengals. He’s a lengthy pass rusher with a good first step and overall athleticism.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Bud Dupree, DE/OLB, KentuckyThe Steelers managed to squeeze a little bit more out of James Harrison and Jason Worilds played the most snaps of any outside linebacker for Pittsburgh this season. The catch is Harrison is old and Worilds is a free agent. Dupree could be brought in and set loose in Dick LeBeau’s 3-4.
25. Detroit Lions: Kevin Johnson, CB, Wake ForestIt’s hard to pass up a defensive tackle here, but Ohio State’s Michael Bennett may be a little too small for Detroit’s scheme. If that’s the case, corner is the team’s big need with Rashean Mathis entering free agency at the age of 34. Johnson is a player who’s stock could skyrocket at the Senior Bowl next month.
26. Indianapolis Colts: Cedric Ogbuehi, OT, Texas A&MThe Colts’ offensive line continues to be a mess and Ogbuehi is the best player available not only at the position, but period. Find a spot for him on the offensive line and move things around as needed.
27. Arizona Cardinals: T.J. Clemmings, OT, PittsburghJared Veldheer looks like he’s the answer at left tackle for the Cardinals, but the right side of the offensive line remains an issue. Clemmings is a powerful blocker who would a nice fit up front for Arizona.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLAOdighizuwa is a defensive lineman capable of playing inside or outside. He would give the Cowboys a versatile piece to move around.
29. Green Bay Packers: Benardrick McKinney, ILB, Mississippi State
I maintain that playing Clay Matthews at inside linebacker isn’t the best use of his abundant skills. Drafting a player like McKinney would allow Mathews to go back outside and give Green Bay a true three down linebacker in the middle.
30. New England Patriots: Melvin Gordon, RB, WisconsinLeave it to Bill Belichick to break the streak of no running backs being taken in the first round of the draft. Following Todd Gurley’s torn ACL late in Georgia’s season, Gordon could vault into being the first running back picked.
31. Denver Broncos: Spencer Drango, OT, BaylorThe Broncos have been playing Louis Vasquez out of position at right tackle and could look for a true tackle in the draft. Drango is the best one left and there’s a considerable drop off after him.
32. Seattle Seahawks: Maxx Williams, TE, MinnesotaOnly a redshirt sophomore, there have been some indications that Williams will go pro. If he does, he’s sure to be the first tight end drafted. Seattle could have quite the steal with him here.
AgamemnonThe 100 best players in the 2015 NFL Draft
By Dan Kadar
http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/12/12/7381411/2015-nfl-draft-top-100-jameis-winston-marcus-mariota
Melina Vastola-USA TODAY SportsSouthern California defensive lineman Leonard Williams is the best prospect in what looks like an ordinary draft class. And where do the most recognizable quarterbacks, Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota, rank compared to the rest of the group?
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ShareHow is the quality of an NFL Draft class judged before any prospect steps foot in the NFL? Is it by how many “franchise” quarterbacks there are? Is it by the number of franchise-changing players at the top of the draft? Is it by the overall depth?
If it’s the first two, the 2015 NFL Draft is not a good one. However you judge a franchise quarterback, Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston, right now, look like the only two who could be in contention for reaching such a lofty level. In fact, in the rankings below, they’re the only quarterbacks in the top 45. In the entire top 100, there’s only four quarterbacks total.
The last time the quarterback class was this poor was 2011. That year was buoyed by a group of defensive players like Patrick Peterson, Aldon Smith, J.J. Watt and others who can be franchise cornerstones. This class may have those players, but it’s no sure thing.
The overall depth is what may keep this class afloat. Of the top 50, half are offensive players and the other half are on defense. This class may lack in quarterbacks, but on offense it makes up for it in running backs, wide receivers and tackles. It’s also heavy in pass rushers. This list features 20 players who are college defensive ends.
This is just the first of a few versions of a top 100 big board leading up to the draft. The next update will be after bowls are completed and the Jan. 15 underclassmen deadlines passes. Then there will all-star game evaluation and, of course, more review of players. The draft process is just starting.
The most highly regarded player not included in this list is probably Notre Dame left tackle Ronnie Stanley. I don’t put a lot of time into redshirt sophomore offensive linemen until they declare. Stanley, according to reports, has submitted paperwork to the NFL Draft Advisory Committee to gauge his draft placement. Minnesota tight end Maxx Williams, another redshirt sophomore, isn’t listed yet.
* denotes junior, ** denotes redshirt sophomore
2015 NFL Draft top 100:
1. Leonard Williams | 6’5, 300 pounds | DT/DE | Southern California *
2. Randy Gregory | 6’6, 240 pounds | DE | Nebraska *
3. Marcus Mariota | 6’4, 219 pounds | QB | Oregon *
4. Amari Cooper | 6’1, 210 pounds | WR | Alabama *
5. Todd Gurley | 6’1, 226 pounds | RB | Georgia *
6. Brandon Scherff | 6’5, 320 pounds | OT | Iowa
7. Eddie Goldman | 6’4, 320 pounds | DT | Florida State *
8. Vic Beasley | 6’3, 235 pounds | DE/OLB | Clemson
9. Shawn Oakman | 6’9, 280 pounds | DE | Baylor
10. Jameis Winston | 6’4, 230 pounds | QB | Florida State **
11. Shaq Thompson | 6’1, 228 pounds | OLB | Washington *
12. La’el Collins | 6’5, 321 pounds | OT | LSU *
13. Eric Kendricks | 6’0, 230 pounds | ILB | UCLA
14. Shane Ray | 6’3, 245 pounds | DE/OLB | Missouri *
15. Kevin White | 6’3, 210 pounds | WR | West Virginia
16. Cedric Ogbuehi | 6’5, 305 pounds | OT | Texas A&M
17. Melvin Gordon | 6’1, 213 pounds | RB | Wisconsin *
18. DeVante Parker | 6’3, 211 pounds| WR | Louisville
19. Landon Collins | 6’0, 222 pounds | S | Alabama *
20. Bud Dupree | 6’4, 264 pounds | DE/OLB | Kentucky
21. Owamagbe Odighizuwa | 6’3, 270 pounds | DE | UCLA
22. Marcus Peters | 6’0, 190 pounds | CB | Washington *
23. Danny Shelton | 6’2, 339 pounds | DT | Washington
24. T.J. Clemmings | 6’6, 315 pounds | OT | Pittsburgh
25. Andrus Peat | 6’7, 316 pounds | OT | Stanford *
26. Trae Waynes | 6’1, 182 pounds | CB | Michigan State
27. Markus Golden | 6’3, 260 pounds | DE | Missouri
28. Dorial Green-Beckham | 6’6, 225 pounds | WR | Oklahoma *
29. Dante Fowler | 6’3, 260 pounds | DE | Florida *
30. Benardick McKinney | 6’5, 249 pounds | ILB | Mississippi State
31. Spencer Drango | 6’6, 305 pounds | OT | Baylor *
32. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu | 5’10, 195 pounds | CB | Oregon
33. Shilique Calhoun | 6’5, 256 pounds | DE | Michigan State *
34. Devin Funchess 6’5, 230 pounds | WR | Michigan *
35. Jaelen Strong | 6’3, 212 pounds | WR | Arizona State *
36. Jordan Phillips | 6’6, 334 pounds | DT | Oklahoma **
37. Ereck Flowers | 6’6, 324 pounds | OT | Miami *
38. Michael Bennett | 6’2, 288 pounds | DT | Ohio State
39. DeForest Buckner | 6’7, 290 pounds | DE | Oregon *
40. Mario Edwards | 6’3, 294 pounds | DE | Florida State *
41. Rashad Greene | 6’0, 180 pounds | WR | Florida State
42. P.J. Williams | 6’0, 196 pounds | CB | Florida State *
43. Nate Orchard | 6’4, 255 pounds | DE/OLB | Utah
44. Duke Williams | 6’2, 216 pounds | WR | Auburn *
45. Sammie Coates | 6’2, 201 pounds | WR | Auburn *
46. Lorenzo Mauldin | 6’4, 252 pounds DE/OLB | Louisville
47. Preston Smith | 6’6, 270 pounds | DE | Mississippi State
48. A.J. Cann | 6’4, 311 pounds | G | South Carolina
49. Connor Cook | 6’4, 218 pounds | QB | Michigan State *
50. Ameer Abdullah | 5’9, 195 pounds | RB | Nebraska
51. Kevin Johnson | 6’1, 175 pounds | CB | Wake Forest
52. Duke Johnson | 5’9, 206 pounds | RB | Miami *
53. Arik Armstead | 6’8, 290 pounds | DE | Oregon *
54. Trey Flowers | 6’4, 268 pounds | DE | Arkansas
55. Hau’oli Kikaha | 6’3, 246 pounds | DE/OLB | Washington
56. Eli Harold | 6’4, 250 pounds | DE/OLB | Virginia *
57. Denzel Perryman | 6’0, 242 pounds | ILB | Miami
58. T.J. Yeldon | 6’2, 221 pounds | RB | Alabama
59. Malcom Brown | 6’2, 320 pounds | DT | Texas
60. Daryl Williams | 6’6, 329 pounds | OT | Oklahoma
61. Tevin Coleman | 6’1, 210 pounds | RB | Indiana *
62. Nelson Agholor | 6’1, 190 pounds | WR | Southern California *
63. Ty Sambrailo | 6’5, 315 pounds | OT | Colorado State
64. Jarvis Harrison | 6’4, 330 pounds | G | Texas A&M
65. Cody Prewitt | 6’2, 217 pounds | S | Ole Miss
66. Ronald Darby | 5’11, 195 pounds | CB | Florida State *
67. Brett Hundley | 6’3, 227 pounds | QB | UCLA *
68. David Cobb | 5’11, 220 pounds | RB | Minnesota
69. Justin Hardy | 6’0, 188 pounds | WR | East Carolina
70. Clive Walford | 6’4, 258 pounds | TE | Miami
71. Jay Ajayi | 6’0, 216 pounds | RB | Boise State *
72. Grady Jarrett | 6’0, 290 pounds | DT | Clemson
73. Danielle Hunter | 6’6, 240 pounds | DE | LSU *
74. Tyrus Thompson | 6’5, 336 pounds | OT | Oklahoma
75. Reese Dismukes | 6’3, 295 pounds | C | Auburn
76. Sean Hickey | 6’6, 306 pounds | OT | Syracuse
77. Jake Fisher | 6’6, 300 pounds | OT | Oregon
78. Ellis McCarthy | 6’5, 325 pounds | DT | UCLA *
79. Alex Carter | 6’0, 202 pounds | CB | Stanford *
80. Hroniss Grasu | 6’3, 297 pounds | C | Oregon
81. DeAndre Smelter | 6’3, 222 pounds | WR | Georgia Tech
82. Cameron Erving | 6’6, 308 pounds | OT | Florida State
83. Za’Darius Smith | 6’6, 263 pounds | DE | Kentucky
84. Ty Montgomery | 6’2, 220 pounds | WR | Stanford
85. Carl Davis | 6’5, 315 pounds | DT | Iowa
86. Josue Matias | 6’6, 325 pounds | G | Florida State
87 Henry Anderson | 6’6, 287 pounds | DE | Stanford
88. Jalen Collins | 6’2, 198 pounds | CB | LSU *
89. Reggie Ragland | 6’2, 254 pounds | ILB | Alabama *
90. Tre Jackson | 6’4, 330 pounds | G | Florida State
91. Mike Jones | 6’2, 235 pounds | RB | Florida *
92. Phillip Dorsett | 5’10, 195 pounds | WR | Miami
93. Laken Tomlinson | 6’3, 330 pounds | G | Duke
94. Hayes Pullard | 6’1, 235 pounds | ILB | Southern California
95. Jesse James | 6’7, 254 pounds | TE | Penn State *
96. Jordan Jenkins | 6’3, 252 pounds | OLB | Georgia *
97. Gerod Holliman | 6’2, 213 pounds | S | Louisville **
98. Leonard Floyd | 6’4, 230 pounds | OLB | Georgia **
99. Mike Davis | 5’9, 223 pounds | RB | South Carolina *
100. Paul Dawson | 6’2, 230 pounds | OLB | TCU AgamemnonIt’s been pretty well established that this year’s class of quarterbacks isn’t as good as it was last year. It’s also been established that while picking a quarterback in the first round typically leads to more success than waiting until later in the draft, it’s not a necessity. The short answer is if you pick a quarterback after the first round, pick one as soon as the guy you like is available. The Bengals in 2011, for instance, waited until the second round to pick Andy Dalton. Argue his qualities all you want, but they’ve been much better than worse with him. When next year’s draft takes place and someone like Brett Hundley of UCLA slips to the second round and a team likes him, make the pick. From a tools standpoint, a middle round pick on Dak Prescott of Mississippi State makes sense. Most of the other quarterbacks in this year’s draft look mostly like backup types who could spot start in a pinch. A lot of Drew Stantons and Ryan Fitzpatricks, basically.
Ultimately, where a non-first round quarterback is picked can be irrelevant once mini camps begin. Then it becomes about what system he’s in and if the team needs to bring him along at a slower pace.
http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/12/12/7381107/nfl-draft-mailbag-jets-browns-bills
The second round is where the Bills could start looking for their quarterback. There’s no chance Mariota will be available and WInston will likely be gone as well. The only thing that could change that is if Connor Cook of Michigan State unexpectedly enters the draft. He would be a first-round target for Buffalo. The second round is where Buffalo would think about someone like Hundley. While erratic, his tools are good. After that it’s hard to see a quarterback who can be a good starting-level player in the NFL.
There should be some good offensive linemen in the second round. Someone like Spencer Drango from Baylor may be an option. He’s like this year’s version of Zack Martin, a good college tackle who could be a great NFL guard.
Agamemnonou know how the next year’s class of quarterbacks always gets touted as better than the current year? That happens to be true for 2015.
The quarterback class for the 2015 NFL Draft isn’t a good one. Yes, that’s something people say every year. Last year’s quarterbacks were better. The 2016 quarterbacks will be better.
Who knows. Solely to itself, and the other positions in next year’s draft, the quarterback class is bad.
The exception is Marcus Mariota of Oregon. If a team doesn’t have the No. 1 pick in the draft, though, chances are it won’t get Mariota. He’s a highly athletic quarterback, but don’t just mistake him for the next Colin Kaepernick. Mariota’s pocket presence and vision are better coming out of college.
http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2014/12/9/7358843/2015-nfl-draft-quarterback-rankings
Marcus Mariota joined by Gordon and CooperJameis Winston has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. Physically, Winston has every tool. But his off-field issues won’t be ignored. Neither will his on-field decision-making. Winston has thrown an alarming number of interceptions this season and seems to start games slow.
After those two, there is a steep dropoff. Michigan State’s Connor Cook has a good combination of tools, though he may return for his senior season. Brett Hundley of UCLA is another player with tools, but struggles from the pocket. Sean Mannion of Oregon State and Bryce Petty of Baylor are traditional pocket passers who don’t wow you in any particular area.
Basically, if your team needs a quarterback, good luck.
AgamemnonTeams that need offensive tackle help will like what the 2015 NFL Draft has to offer. A strong argument can be made for any of the top seven offensive tackles to be first-round picks.
It’s an ultra-talented group, but also one that is tightly packed. Any of the top five players at the position could hold the top spot, so expect this group to be fluid up until the draft.
At the top for now is Iowa’s Brandon Scherff. He’s not a dazzling athlete, and there seems to be questions about his arm length, but he can neutralize defenders. If Scherff can play with better balance more consistently, there’s no reason to think he can’t stay at tackle.
Many of the same points can be made for LSU’s La’el Collins. He’s really progressed as a pass blocker for the Tigers this season. Cedric Ogbuehi of Texas A&M may not be having the season many expected, but his play at right tackle in 2013 was sensational. There’s nothing wrong with taking a right tackle high in the draft, and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Clemmings should be proof of that in April.
Andrus Peat of Stanford may be the wild card of the group. The junior is highly athletic and nimble. Admittedly, I need to do more work on Peat.
For now, until there is some indication they’re going pro, redshirt sophomores Jack Conklin of Michigan State and Ronnie Stanley of Notre Dame are not being listed.
AgamemnonI’m tellin ya, there will be a coupla good QBs
coming out of this class besides Mariota and Winston.
…i just dont know who 🙂
This guy could be inter esting
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1776297/brandon-bridgew
v
———————–http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospectrankings/2015/QB
Rank Player Pos. Pos. Rank School Class Ht. Wt. Proj. Round
1 *Marcus Mariota QB 1 Oregon rJr 6-4 215 1
3 *Jameis Winston QB 2 Florida State 6-4 232 1
43 *Brett Hundley QB 3 UCLA rJr 6-3 227 2
64 *Dak Prescott QB 4 Mississippi St 6-1 230 2
92 Bryce Petty QB 5 Baylor rSr 6-3 230 3
119 Garrett Grayson QB 6 Colorado State 6-2 220 3-4
131 Shane Carden QB 7 East Carolina 6-2 221 4
156 Brandon Bridge QB 8 South Alabama 6-5 235 4-5
172 Cody Fajardo QB 9 Nevada rSr 6-2 215 5
190 Sean Mannion QB 10 Oregon State 6-5 220 5-6
228 Bo Wallace QB 11 Ole Miss 6-4 217 6-7
241 Blake Sims QB 12 Alabama rSr 6-0 208 7OURLADS’ 2015 BIG BOARD TOP 50 3.0
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email EmailUpdated: 12/29/2014 11:23AM ET
Pick Player Pos. School HT WT 40 Time
1
Marcus Mariota* QB
Oregon
6040 224 4.55
2
Leonard Williams* DT/DE
USC
6050 300 4.85
3
Jameis Winston* QB
Florida State
6040 235 4.85
4
Amari Cooper* WR
Alabama
6010 204 4.49
5
Shane Ray* DE
Missouri
6034 255 4.60
6
Randy Gregory* DE/OB
Nebraska
6060 240 4.65
7
Ronnie Stanley* LOT
Notre Dame
6054 318 5.00
We don’t know if he’s coming out but he’ll be high on next years radar. Stanley is a long armed,good technique player with excellent lateral movement. He features an explosive punch in pass pro and an aggressive attitude in the run game.
8
DeForest Buckner* DE/DT
Oregon
6060 286 5.00
Junior entry.
9
Cedric Ogbuehi LOT
Texas A&M
6050 300 4.95
Three-and-a-half year starter with experience at left and right tackle plus guard. A long torso athlete with a thick lower body and long arms. Exceptional feet and is smooth athletically in pass protection. Sits down in pass protection with good knee bend. Keeps his hands inside on the breastplate. Powerful enough to club a pass rushing defensive end. Good initial quickness and is athletic on pulls. Sudden to gain position on his blocking target. One of the few tackles in the 2015 Draft who can handle edge speed consistently. Good lateral quickness. Gets depth quickly on kick step when protecting the passer. Would like to see more urgency as a pass protector and finish his run blocking better.
10
Andrus Peat* LOT
Stanford
6070 312 5.25
11
Mario Edwards* DE
Florida State
6030 280 4.85
12
Melvin Gordon* RB
Wisconsin
6010 212 4.45
A difference maker with rare ability who changes the outcomes of games. Plays with a top effort and consistency versus all competition. Possesses rare and exceptional critical factors and production to win games. Improved as a pass catcher in 2014.A patient and explosive runner with exceptional vision and cutting ability. A downhill runner from the I or off set I- formation with a burst to and through the hole between the tackles. He runs with his eyes. Follows and cuts off his blockers. Has Eric Dickerson’s slide and glide ability. A smooth runner who can slash and break tackles when he is running the Badger’s power “O” play. Generates power in his lower body with strong leg drive. Always going forward with a low pad level and his eyes up. Drives his legs on contact. Not easy to tackle. Has the ability to see the cut back lanes and jump cut in the hole. Gordon also lines up in the slot and runs the Jet sweep wide picking up speed as he goes then turns the corner to burst up the field. A coveted North-South runner who sees the hole and hits it. A strong runner at the point of attack. Collided head on with a free linebacker blitzer, bounced off, spun outside, and accelerated down the sideline. He possesses a third gear open field burst where he can outrun secondary pursuit angles. A strong runner with good contact balance. Gordon is particularly impressive as a runner because opponents had no respect for the Wisconsin passing game and dropped their safeties down to 7-8 yards off the line of scrimmage. Gordon ran through heavy traffic and made himself small through the hole. One fourth of the cold weather back’s carries have gone for over 10 yards in his career. Only player in FBS to have three 70+ yard runs in 2013. He also has 10 runs of 40+ yards over the past two years. Gordon combined with James White to rush for 3053 yards to set a single season FBS rushing record for two teammates in a year. Over the past two years he has rushed for 2328 yards in 288 carries as a rotation back. The elusive runner is the NCAA’s active career leader in yards per carry at 8.1 yards. This season he will share carries with Corey Clement. He lowers his pad level in short yardage, 1st down, and goal-line carries.
Caught only 1 pass for 10 yards in 2013. James White was generally in on pass downs and Gordon was on the sideline. He did run a few check down routes and a nine route from a wide receiver position. He needs to improve as a complete back catching the ball out of the backfield. Improve his release and his routes. Gordon caught passes with receivers during the winter drills to improve his hands. He will also need to elevate his game as a blocker and pass protector. Has the courage and willingness to excel, just needs to do it on game day.In the Capital One Bowl game against South Carolina, Gordon rushed for 146 yards and carried Jadeveon Clowney on his back five yards to pick up a first down on one carry. Versus Penn State Gordon was out on a pass route and the ball was batted and intercepted by a defensive lineman. Gordon chased the tackle 40 yards and stripped the ball out to stop a touchdown. Penn State had to settle for a field goal. In the Big 10 championship game in 2012, Gordon rushed for 216 yards in 9 carries versus Nebraska. He flashes Walter Payton’s high step over a tackler ability and demonstrates Chris Johnson’s explosive running skills. He is not a fumbler. Secures the ball. The well built back rushed for 1609 yards averaging 7.8 yards per carry. He scored 12 TDs and rushed for over 140 yards per game in 6 of his first 7 games in 2013.
13
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu CB
Oregon
5092v 185v 4.45
Tore ACL in practice late in season. Three-year starter who played in all 14 games as a true freshman. A first-team All-Pac 12 performer his sophomore and junior seasons. Name is pronounced ee-fo eck-pray-olo moo. A very instinctive and aware corner who is able to make a mental adjustment on his feet with sudden reactions. An explosive player with suddenness in his body despite his size. Blessed with extreme recovery speed which helps him arrive before the ball gets to the receiver. Smooth and fluid. Good body control. No wasted movement in his transition. Plays as fast as he needs to. Sudden closing burst. Tough and aggressive in run support. Very competitive. Slips the block and makes a play. Doesn’t shy away from tackling contact. Doesn’t lunge or overextend in press coverage. Has the talent to be a Pro Bowl slot corner with his quick feet, plant and drive, stop and go quickness, burst to close on the ball, timing, and leaping ability. He can also play outside. A tough-minded corner who accepts a challenge. Through 4 games he has 20 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 interception, and 2 pass breakups. Had a hiccup vs Washington St. by being on the short end of two touchdown passes. Got picked on one TD & was beaten by a perfect throw on another.
14
Kevin White WR
West Virginia
6027 211 4.50
15
Danny Shelton NT/DT
Washington
6020 330 5.25
Three-year starter who is active and explosive in his play. An ideal 3-4 scheme nose tackle but will fit in as a five technique 4-3 defender. Opened the 2014 season with 12 tackles versus Hawaii. Leads the Huskies in total tackles and entering the Stanford game he leads the nation in sacks with 7 and is tied for the NCAA lead in tackles for loss with 9.5. Bottom line, Shelton is a high motor, great effort interior player who is tough to block and occupy. The massive and stout inside defender stacks double teams and has a quick get off on the snap. Feels and reads interior blocking schemes. A run stuffer who can press the pocket in the passing game. Doesn’t stay blocked. Quick to disengage. Earned 1st team All-Academic Pac-12 honors in 2012 and 2013. Threw the shot put over 60 feet in high school and was a standout prep wrestler. Changed his jersey number from 71 in 2013 to 55 in 2014.
16
Trae Waynes* CB
Michigan State
6010 183 4.49
Plays field corner in a press man-to-man secondary scheme. Has a slender and wiry build with long arms and quick feet. Redshirt in 2011. Played mostly special teams’ coverage in 2012. Started all 14 games as a sophomore as a field corner. Recorded 50 tackles, 1.5 TFL, 8 passes defended, and 3 INTS.A cover corner with good hip flexibility and body control. Hard to shake. Jams a receiver then can turn and run with no separation. Good press-bail technique. Always in position to make a play on the ball. Top end quickness, agility, and balance. Easy and athletic back pedal and lateral movement. Good change of direction. Tight in man-to-man coverage. Can reroute wide receiver and keep position on him. Active and disciplined in his play. Quick reactions on every throw in his area. A lockdown college corner who is smooth in transition. Nose to nose with wide receiver. Good two arm extension to jam and reroute pass catchers. Waynes can get on top of a receiver and make a play. Even on a perfect throw he’s there competing for the ball then makes the tackle. Good ball skills and production. Has good eye/hand coordination. Not asked to force and contain often, but will not turn down a hit or allow an outside release. Disciplined in coverage. Mentally and physically tough. An NFL caliber competitor. Nickel specialist.
Waynes is a tough and aggressive tackler who relishes hitting. More of a cut tackler than a wrap up guy. He will slip off a tackle on a big receiver (Cody Latimer, Indiana). The Spartan field corner will shed a block quickly and push a ball carrier out-of-bounds. He does not lack tackling courage. In the Big 10 championship game, Waynes drove on 230-pound runningback Carlos Hyde in the flat and cut him down for no gain.Trae Waynes is a very good and confident athlete with a high level of energy and intensity. He appears to have a bouncy and eager personality who loves competition with the urge to dominate a receiver. He takes pride in his ability. Waynes is alert and has good field awareness. Has the positive coverage traits of Lardarius Webb (Ravens), Sam Shields (Green Bay), Tim Jennings (Chicago), and Alterraun Verner (Tampa Bay) when they were coming out of college. Excels on the kickoff and punt return special teams. A late 1st round or early second round talent if he runs in the 4.40-4.45/forty range.
17
Landon Collins* SS
Alabama
6000 212 4.5518
Brandon Scherff OT/OG
Iowa
6045v 320v 5.0
Three-year starter at left tackle, less the last five games of his sophomore year missed due to injury. A powerful run blocker who will get a shot at right tackle on the next level, but has the talent to be a Pro Bowl guard like former Hawkeye Marshal Yanda of the Ravens. Moves equally as well out of a three or two point stance. A competitor who plays with a good shoulder width base and mirrors the pass rusher up the field. Plays with a good two arm extension in pass pro. Has the feet to run over a blitzing safety. Plays square with good knee bend. Physical when he gets his hands on a defensive end. Sets the edge as a zone blocking tackle.19
Eddie Goldman* DT
Florida State
6040 314 5.00
20
Jake Fisher ROT
Oregon
6064v 300v 5.10
Three-year starter. Starter at right tackle but moved to left after Tyler Johnstone was injured in 2014. Played as a true freshman. Creates seams for the explosive Duck backs. Was a tight end and defensive lineman at Traverse City (MI) West High School. Two year recipient of Oregon’s “Pancake Club Award”. Gave Shilique Calhoun of Michigan State a workout in the Duck-Spartan matchup early in the 2014 season. Physical on down blocks, double teams, and combo blocks in the running game. Sustains and finishes his blocks with functional play strength and balance. Demonstrates a focused attitude and aggression to engage initial contact with base, balance, and knee bend. Stays square with the ability to shadow the pass rusher. Good hand quickness, punch, and placement to control his opponent. Suffered an undisclosed knee injury in the Wyoming game. Returned for the UCLA game and played left tackle.
21
DeVante Parker WR
Louisville
6025 207 4.55
22
Vic Beasley OB
Clemson
6027v 220v 4.55
Two-year starter who is an upfield pressure player. Appears to have matured in 2014. He had a productive season last year but was undisciplined, selfish, and unsportsmanlike in his play and had a 15 yard slashing-his-throat penalty. There were several plays where he was out of control and missed sacks or tackles. It appears the dumb plays are behind him and he can concentrate on his assignments and technique. Was one of the country’s top pass rushers in 2013 and one of Clemson’s most athletic players. Can run laterally as well as dip and lean around the corner. Explosive first step quickness from stance to opponent. Has quick hands, quick feet, and a closing burst to the quarterback. Gives effort as a pass rusher. Flexible to bend and play low. Will change up his moves from arm over, rip, and spin. Flashes a sudden jolt and explosion to the offensive tackle. Slender lower body. Can be single blocked at times by a tight end. Has trouble with big tackles. So far in three games he has 9 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks (39 yards), and 1 pass broken up.
23
Marcus Peters* CB
Washington
6000 195 4.50
24
Jaelen Strong* WR
Arizona State
6030 205 4.5025
Cameron Erving LOT
Florida State
6052v 298v 5.20
Moved to center to solidify offensive line play. Three-year starter at left tackle after a move from defensive tackle. Awarded the Jacobs’ Blocking Trophy as the best offensive lineman in the Athletic Coast Conference in 2013. Appears to enjoy playing the game. A good athlete who is enthusiastic and plays under control. A zone blocker who competes on a consistent basis. Long arms and a good base. Very good on his redirect versus a two-move defender. Good lateral quickness and pulling ability. Light feet with the ability to bend and punch. Creates lanes in the run game.26
Alvin “Bud” Dupree DE/OB
Kentucky
6035v 268v 4.59
Three-year productive starter as both a defensive end and outside linebacker. Has an athletic skill set that combines his size, strength, and football intelligence to create big plays for the Wildcats. Listed in the SEC’s top 10 for the past two years in sacks (13.5) and tackles for loss (22). Moves easily for a big man. A fast twitch athlete who plays well on his feet or with his hand in the dirt. Explosive first step quickness to get off on the snap and lateral quickness to contain the outside run. Can bend the edge of a defense and come flat down the line. Has good hand quickness and a closing burst to the quarterback. Good pass rush effort. An edge pass rusher who looks the part including his 40.5 inch vertical jump to get into the passing lanes. Collected 91 total tackles as a sophomore and 61 tackles as a junior.
27
Maxx Williams TE
Minnesota
6050 250 4.65
Red-shirt sophomore. A chainmover in the Gopher run oriented offense. If he were in a pass oriented offense he would put receiving records out of sight.Son of former NY Giant guard Brian Williams. Mother Rochelle was a Big 10 Medal of Honor winner in volleyball. Caught 29 passes for 471 yds. averaged 16.2 yds per reception28
La’el Collins OT
LSU
6044v 324v 5.10
Three-year starter on the left side of the line. As a sophomore was the starting left guard and at left tackle the past two years. Heading into the fall, Collins played 1,690 snaps on offense with 134.5 knockdowns. A competitor who looks lean at 324 pounds. A good athlete who can adjust on the run to block or run over corner support. Good arm length and body control to redirect and shift weight quickly to defeat an opponent. Generally plays with a stout base and knee bend but has a tendency to narrow his base at times in pass protection. A powerful run blocker who can use more anchor strength as a pass protector.http://www.ourlads.com/top-32-college-senior-prospects/nfl-draft/2015/2592129
Agamemnon*Ronnie Stanley 6-5 315 5.20 Notre Dame OT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNR1gwl0J1QCameron Erving 6-5 310 5.25 Florida State OT/C
Stanley goes to the top of my draft board. The perfect draft for me, would be to get both players, Stanley and Erving this year.
AgamemnonShaq Thompson, OLB, Washington
No player is harder to project in this class than Shaq Thomspon. He’s an incredible athlete, playing at linebacker, safety, running back and cornerback in his college career. The junior star isn’t a prototypical linebacker at 6’1″, 228 pounds, but his ability to tackle in space and run in coverage is undeniable.
AgamemnonBob McGinn | On the Packers
An early look at the NFL Draft
Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston has field awareness — and baggage.
http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/an-early-look-at-the-nfl-draft-b99403379z1-284999721.htmlHere is a look at how the National Football League draft of 2015 is shaping up based on interviews with six executives in personnel over the last 10 days. Underclassmen have until Jan. 15 to declare for the draft.
RECEIVERSMix five juniors with half a dozen solid seniors and it looks to be another stellar year for wide receivers.
One scout said wide receiver and tackle were the two best positions. “There are four juniors that kind of make this class,” another scout said. “History says that four or five will be in the first round.”
Alabama junior Amari Cooper (6-1, 210) was a unanimous choice as the top wideout. “He’s a top-10 player,” said one scout. “Excellent hands. Very explosive and fast. One of the better route runners to come out in a long, long time. Very skilled. Had big-time production. Only thing that’s starting to creep up on him is a few injuries.”
Two big seniors, West Virginia’s Kevin White (6-3, 211) and Louisville’s DeVante Parker (6-2½, 207), figure to be drafted next.
Of White, one scout said: “He’s more of a (Larry) Fitzgerald type receiver in that he doesn’t have great speed. I never see him beat people deep. But (if) he is even with them he’s going to get the ball. Very good player.”
Of Parker, the same scout said: “He’s got size, speed and was dominating at the end of the season. He looks a little faster than White.”
The other leading juniors with chances to be taken in the first round are two Auburn players, D’haquille Williams (6-2, 216) and Sammie Coates (6-2, 200), and Arizona State’s Jaelen Strong (6-3, 215).
“Coates can go vertical,” one scout said. “He’s definitely going to (run) 4.3. The key will be, does he have consistently strong hands?
“Strong plays big.”
Williams was compared by scouts to Chicago’s Alshon Jeffery and Tampa Bay’s Mike Evans. “Big, long, physical,” said one scout. “He can run a little bit. JUCO kid. Just been a one-year deal there.”
Junior Dorial Green-Beckham (6-5, 222) was thrown out of Missouri and transferred to Oklahoma.
“He’s the wild card of all of them,” said one scout. “He’s a first-round talent, no question. Is there a team that will take a chance on him there?”
It’s a weak year at tight end. Michigan’s Devin Funchess (6-4½, 235), a junior, played wide receiver this season but spent much of 2013 at tight end.
“He’s not unlike Jared Cook, who’s with the Rams,” one scout said. “Pretty talented kid. Will he be your split-out tight end-H-back or a bigger wideout? I lean more toward the mismatch at tight end. He’s going to be kind of a hybrid player.”
Jordan Aikens (6-3, 240), a junior from Central Florida who played 3½ years of minor-league baseball before joining UCF this fall, has excellent speed. Senior Nick O’Leary (6-3, 235) of Florida State is Jack Nicklaus’ grandson.
According to one scout, Ohio State’s Jeff Heuerman (6-5, 250) might be the most complete tight end.
OFFENSIVE LINE“It is a very deep draft for tackles if all the juniors come out,” one scout said. “It’s not a great group inside but a lot of these tackles can be guards as well. Depends where you play guys.”
Most often mentioned as the No. 1 tackle was Cedric Ogbuehi (6-5, 304) of Texas A&M. He played right tackle last year when Falcons rookie Jake Matthews was at left tackle before moving to the left side this year. One scout said Ogbuehi was playing as well as former linemates Matthews (No. 6 pick, 2014) and Luke Joeckel (No. 2 pick, ’13).
“But he’s soft,” said one scout. “Never practices.”
The next senior is Iowa’s Brandon Scherff (6-4½, 320).
“Not unlike (Bryan) Bulaga,” one scout said. “Little short-armed. Kind of like a Sam Baker kind of tackle with the Falcons but he could be a really good guard.”
Louisiana State’s La’el Collins (6-4½, 324), Pittsburgh’s T.J. Clemmings (6-4½, 313) and Florida State’s Cameron Erving (6-5, 305) are the next seniors.
“Collins is a lot like Scherff,” said one scout. “He was a guard early in his career. Right now Erving is playing center but he’s been a left tackle his whole career. Very versatile.”
Based on recent draft history, the majority of juniors with a legitimate chance for the first round declare. Stanford’s Andrus Peat (6-6½, 310) might be the exception even though four scouts said he’d be the first tackle taken.
Peat’s father, Todd, played six NFL seasons as a squatty guard for the Cardinals and Raiders.
“He’s got everything,” one scout said. “Size, the bend, the feet, the tenacity.”
Besides Peat, the other top juniors being looked at by teams are Miami’s Ereck Flowers (6-5, 324), Florida’s J.J. Humphries (6-5, 295), Baylor’s Spencer Drango (6-5, 315), Texas A&M’s Germain Ifedi (6-5, 320), Ohio State’s Taylor Decker (6-6½, 315) and Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley (6-6, 318).
“Humphries is more of a second-rounder,” one scout said. “Talented kid. He’s like most 20-, 21-years-olds. He needs to get a little bit stronger but he has the athleticism.
“Ifedi is playing left tackle now but he’s more of a guard. He and Flowers are more second-rounders. Decker and Stanley are more mid-rounders.”
South Carolina’s Brandon Shell (6-6, 334), Art Shell’s nephew, didn’t have a good junior season and might last until the fourth round if he declares.
Possibly the best guards are South Carolina’s A.J. Cann (6-4, 315) and Alabama’s Arie Kouandjio (6-5, 326), but there is mixed opinion on Kouandjio. The top centers looks like Auburn’s Reese Dismukes (6-3, 299) and Oregon’s Hroniss Grasu (6-3, 295).
“Cann is square, big, gets movement at the point,” one scout said. “He’ll need a little bit of work in pass pro.
“Dismukes has quickness, good angles and position. I’d like to see him work to finish better, run his feet better.”
QUARTERBACKSWith no senior expected in the first two and possibly three rounds, the four leading underclassmen all are expected to declare.
“This will not be one of your top quarterbacks drafts,” said one scout. “It may be a busted quarterback draft.”
Oregon’s Marcus Mariota (6-4, 215) stands as good a chance as any player to be selected with the first pick even if the team with the choice ends up trading it.
“He’s clearly the best,” said one scout. “He’s perfect for the new breed of football. He knows how to play the spread-option stuff pretty good and he can throw.”
Several scouts compared Mariota to Colin Kaepernick.
“I don’t think of (Andrew) Luck at all,” another scout said. “Luck was born to be an NFL quarterback. Mariota’s probably a more complete player than Colin Kaepernick but more of the athlete type.”
Next is Jameis Winston (6-4, 230), the redshirt sophomore from Florida State who has had all kinds of problems off the field.
“He has an uncanny ability to know what’s around him and get himself out of trouble,” one scout said. “He’s not that impressive on some throws but he’s the reason they’re undefeated.”
Said another scout: “I would be deathly scared to have him. He’s so freaking inaccurate to start games. He’s off the mark more than he’s on. He has arm strength and a good delivery. He’s a nightmare.”
Michigan State’s Connor Cook (6-4, 219) says he plans to return.
“But somebody will get to him and tell him that Jameis Winston will fall in the draft once people continue to do background work on him,” said one scout. “I’d feel much more comfortable taking (Cook) in the second round but the (NFL) coaches are going to love him.
“He’s big and has a strong arm and a quick release and he’s very smart. Just not a very accurate quarterback.”
UCLA’s Brett Hundley (6-3, 225), much like Blake Bortles, needs development. He does have size, arm strength and talent.
“He’s going to be a bust,” one scout said. “He’s one of those guys who seems to lock in right away. His shortcoming is accuracy.”
Oregon State’s Sean Mannion (6-5½, 220) drew the most praise among the seniors. He scored 36 on the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test.
“More of a third-rounder,” one scout said. “Just lacks arm strength. Good size, good production.”
RUNNING BACKSJuniors Melvin Gordon (6-1, 215) of Wisconsin and Todd Gurley of Georgia (6-1, 226) were set to compete for top back in the draft honors when Gurley blew out his ACL.
Gordon was called a top-10 pick by one scout, a top 10 to 15 pick by another, a top-15 pick by a third and a second-round selection by a fourth.
“He’s a bigger version of Jamaal Charles,” one scout said. “He’ll run 4.42. He’s really good.”
As for Gordon’s record-setting production, another scout said, “He’s good against those slow-(expletive) Big Ten guys. It (the Big Ten) is terrible. That’s what bothers me a little bit.”
A third scout said the comparison to the Chiefs’ Charles was skewed because Gordon hasn’t proven himself anywhere near as accomplished catching the ball and sorting out the blitz.
“I know he makes a lot of yards but I don’t think he’s special,” the scout said. “I don’t think he runs with good pad level or contact balance. He’s got good straight-line speed. I don’t think his vision is outstanding. He’ll try to be a slasher at times but he goes down pretty easily.”
Gurley wasn’t featured until this season but made a lasting impression before the knee injury.
“He was a top-five talent before the injury,” said one scout. “He’s special. I don’t think he’ll ever run before (the draft) but you don’t need him to because he’s so fast on film. Not a lot of wear and tear on him because they rotate so many backs.”
Alabama junior T.J. Yeldon (6-2, 220) is regarded as another definite first-round choice.
“Different type than (Eddie) Lacy but he could be (better),” one scout said. “He runs hard like Eddie. He has more speed than Eddie.”
Indiana’s Tevin Coleman (6-0, 210), Miami’s Duke Johnson (5-9, 208), Boise State’s Jay Ajayi (6-0, 215) and Florida’s Matt Jones (6-2, 226) are juniors expected to go between the 25th and 60th picks.
Of Johnson, one scout said: “He’s short but productive as hell. He’s explosive, stumpy. He’s a block.”
Of Jones, another scout said: “Second round. Physical runner with enough speed. His best football is ahead of him.”
Perhaps the leading senior is Nebraska’s Ameer Abdullah (5-8½, 199). “He’s kind of similar to Giovani Bernard,” said one scout. Another said Abdullah reminded him of LeSean McCoy.
DEFENSIVE LINEThe best defensive tackle is junior Leonard Williams (6-4½, 300) of Southern California.
“Top-five pick,” said one scout. “He was 312 during two-a-days, 300 now. He’ll run in the 4.7s. And he’s a great kid.”
Behind Williams, and with a solid shot at the first round, are defensive tackles Eddie Goldman (6-3, 320) of Florida State, a junior, and Danny Shelton (6-0½, 324) of Washington, a senior.
“Goldman didn’t play much the year before,” said one scout. “Really getting better as the season goes along. Big body.”
Shelton moves as well as B.J. Raji, according to one scout. “True nose tackle,” said another. “When there’s a rare nose tackle like that, they go (high).”
Two Big Ten seniors, Michael Bennett (6-2, 286) of Ohio State and Carl Davis (6-4½, 318) of Iowa, should be gone by the second round.
“I see Bennett being explosive initially,” said one scout. “Strong. Sheds. Three-technique, not a nose….Davis is not just a plugger. Strong.”
Alabama junior Jarran Reed (6-4, 315), a junior-college transfer, is expected to declare and be at least a second-round pick. Oklahoma junior Jordan Phillips (6-5, 305) could be an early second-rounder as well.
Nebraska junior Randy Gregory (6-6, 248) is projected as a top-15 pick by some teams. He might be the first taken from among a cluster of players that could be 4-3 defensive ends or 3-4 outside linebackers.
“Gregory’s the pass rusher,” said one scout. “He’s taller than DeMarcus (Ware) but he’s got some of that sneaky stuff in him.”
One scout said junior Dante Fowler (6-2, 261) of Florida is “quick, athletic, physical. A stud. He’s first round.”
Juniors Shane Ray (6-3, 245) of Missouri and Danielle Hunter (6-6, 240) of LSU won’t be available after the second round. The same might be said for seniors Nate Orchard (6-4, 255) of Utah and Lorenzo Mauldin (6-3½, 241) of Louisville.
“Ray gets off the ball as good as Gregory,” said one scout. “Plays with a lot of effort. I keep hearing Gregory is the best one in this draft but I think he looks lean, thin. I don’t see him holding the edge a lot.”
Junior Mario Edwards (6-3, 294) of Florida State has enough size to play anywhere in any defense.
“Very, very strong upper body,” one scout said. “Plays the run extremely well but also can rush the passer. He goes back end of the first.”
Kentucky senior Alvin Dupree (6-3½, 268) also has a chance for the first round.
“He can be a physical player but he also can be an athlete,” said one scout. “Has played both up and down. As he’s gotten better the defense has gotten better. Great kid. All the intangible stuff.”
Junior Shawn Oakman (6-7½, 275) of Baylor drew mixed reviews. He looks great but doesn’t produce.
“Looks like he’s going to be whoop (expletive) and he just isn’t,” said one scout. “Looks like a pro but he’s got a lot of rawness to his game.”
Junior Shilique Calhoun (6-4, 260) of Michigan State and senior Trey Flowers (6-3½, 269) of Arkansas are 4-3 base ends with pass-rush potential.
“Calhoun should be a guy that plays the run and plays the pass, which is kind of a rarity,” said one scout. “He’s got size, strength, production. He’s got a game that will just continue to get better.”
LINEBACKERSMississippi State Benardrick McKinney (6-4, 255), a junior, looks like the top inside prospect if he declares.
“He makes plays,” one scout said. “He’s big. We don’t know if he can run yet. I don’t know if he’s a dinosaur or he’s a new-breed ‘backer.”
Whereas McKinney is regarded as a possible first-round choice, senior Denzel Perryman (5-11, 248) of Miami seems to be a second-round player. One scout said Perryman has gotten too heavy.
“He’s short,” said another. “But he’s got a really good nose for the football.”
UCLA senior Eric Kendricks (5-11½, 229) and Clemson’s Stephone Anthony (6-2½, 238) are in the third-round category. Trey DePriest (6-0½, 258) runs the defense at Alabama.
“The only quality DePriest has is he’s smart and they (Crimson Tide coaches) really like him,” one scout said. “I think he’s slow, short, lacks length.”
Washington junior Shaq Thompson (6-2, 231) leads the group of conventional outside linebackers.
“Really good athlete,” one scout said. “Not great instincts but he’s got a chance. He’s the best athlete on that team. He could be the best running back. He’s just running around being an athlete. First round.”
Clemson’s Vic Beasley (6-3, 227) is a completely different player from Thompson but has a shot for the first round, too.
“He’ll be a rusher,” said one scout. “Beasley is a better football player. He can really run. He understands leverage. They don’t crush him.”
Oklahoma junior Eric Striker (6-0, 218) is a difficult player to evaluate.
“He makes plays but he’s so small,” said one scout. “He’s an outside rusher. I’m just trying to figure out what you do with him. He’s not going to get any bigger but he ends up with a bunch of sacks.”
SECONDARY“Corner is not a great group overall unless somebody really comes on,” one scout said. “It’s a suspect group. I don’t see one in the first (round) but I’m sure somebody will run well and sneak up there.
“There’s a little bit of depth at safety but there’s nobody right off the top that you just love.”
Michigan State junior Trae Waynes (6-1, 183) was a high school teammate of Melvin Gordon’s at Kenosha Bradford. Assuming Waynes declares, he might join Gordon to give the Red Devils the first player drafted at two positions.
“He’s pretty good,” one scout said. “He’s probably the best one of the bunch. He can press, he can play off, he can go vertical and he’s got length.”
Said another scout: “Really been well-coached. He’s good at press. Kind of a weird built kid. He’s long but he’s kind of thin. At the right place he’ll have a chance to be a player as a press guy. Second round.”
If Mississippi State junior Will Redmond (6-0, 182) declares, he could be next. But there are no indications he will.
“I’d say late first or second round,” said one scout. “He will be more of an off corner. I think he will run in the 4.3s.”
A pair of juniors from Florida State, P.J. Williams (6-0, 195) and Ronald Darby (5-11, 195), figure to go in the second round. Notre Dame senior Cody Riggs (5-9, 190) might as well.
“Williams can’t run but he’s got length,” one scout said. “Darby can run but I don’t like him. I think he plays soft.”
Senior Kevin Johnson (6-0½, 178) is in that second-round territory. “Long, tall, very thin,” said one scout. “Runs OK. Very good technique, awareness, instinct, ball skills. All that good stuff. He’s just lean.”
Senior Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (5-9, 186) of Oregon has made a lot of plays but probably projects as a nickel back.
“He’d be much better playing him in the slot,” said one scout. “Good tackler, good blitzer, around the football. Little stiff. Probably not great top-end speed.”
Senior Marcus Peters (6-0, 198) of Washington is regarded as one of the most talented cornerbacks but also an enormous character risk. He has had several physical altercations with assistant coaches and was kicked off the team Nov. 5.
“He tried to strangle a coach on the sidelines,” one scout said. “Then they let him back on the team and he did it all over again. Try selling that to your head coach.”
Two seniors, Steven Nelson (5-10½, 199) of Oregon State and Senquez Golson (5-9, 185) of Mississippi, figure in the first three rounds. LSU junior Jalen Collins (6-2, 195) has size but might lack speed.
“Collins is very much like P.J. Williams,” one scout said. “Good size but isn’t going to blow your socks off with his speed. Second round.”
If Alabama junior Landon Collins (6-0, 222) declares he probably will be the first safety selected.
“I thought he was better than Green Bay’s guy (Ha Ha Clinton-Dix),” said one scout. “Little better movement. Coming out of there he probably will be (a first-round pick).”
Junior Gerod Holliman (6-0, 201) of Louisville has an incredible total of 14 interceptions.
“He needs to go back to school,” said one scout. “He’s horrible. He can’t make a tackle to save his life. He’s got pretty good instincts but he’s not that athletic.”
Michigan State senior Kurtis Drummond (6-0½, 205) and Samford senior Jaquiski Tartt (6-1½, 223) might be next.
“Drummond is more of an athletic space player than a box safety,” one scout said. “Tartt’s physical and he can run.”
Stanford senior Jordan Richards (5-10½, 209) might fall in the third round. “Tough, try-hard, smart,” said one scout.
West Virginia junior Carl Joseph (5-10, 196) also has redeeming qualities. “Short, but a very good hitter,” said one scout. “He can cover. He’ll make it on special teams right away.”
Agamemnonhttp://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24921855/nfl-draft-ots-ereck-flowers-donovan-smith-make-nfl-leap
2015 NFL Draft: Block Party? Trio of OTs skip senior year for NFL
By Rob Rang | The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com
December 29, 2014 4:29 pm ETNFL teams looking for help along the offensive line received good news Monday with Miami’s Ereck Flowers, Utah’s Jeremiah Poutasi and Penn State’s Donovan Smith each announcing their intentions to give up their final seasons of collegiate eligibility and enter the 2015 draft.
Besides their declaration date, the trio have a few other things in common — great size and experience.
Averaging a massive 6-foot-5, 330 pounds and boasting three years of starting experience apiece, Flowers, Poutasi and Smith each offer the traits to warrant at least Day Two consideration, with Miami’s left tackle earning a spot among NFLDraftScout.com’s updated first round mock drafts.
The 6-foot-5, 324 pound Flowers leaves Miami as a three year starter with experience at both tackle positions. He is light on his feet and balanced in pass protection. He is aggressive and active as a run blocker, including looking for defenders in pursuit. He underwent surgery in late October to repair a torn meniscus but played well upon his return, including in the ACC showdown with Florida State and in Miami’s Independence Bowl loss to South Carolina.
Poutasi ranks eighth among NFLDraftScout.com’s 2016 OTs. The 6-foot-5, 322 pounder started the past two seasons at left tackle for the Utes but began his career on the right side. The ability to switch positions could be critical for Poutasi as he looks like a candidate to move inside to guard. Poutasi can overwhelm defenders with his sheer size but he struggled with Southern Cal’s speed and will, of course, see a lot more of it in the NFL.
Even though he’s heavier at 6-foot-5, 335 pounds, Penn State’s Smith’s relative athleticism, on the other hand, could keep him on the perimeter. Smith has the long arms needed at tackle and is surprisingly light on his feet for a man of his size.
Against Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl December 27, for example, Smith showed good power and aggression to lock onto defenders. Rather than mirroring in pass protection, though, Smith leaned into opponents, bending at the waist. The ultra-quick edge defenders in the NFL may be able to swim or spin past Smith, at this point, making a move inside to guard possible.
His decision to leave school early was a bit of a surprise, though his tools are clear. He’s currently ranked 13th among offensive tackles in the 2016 draft class but elected to make the NFL jump with his academic goals (a degree in criminology) already accomplished.
Smith made his intentions known through Penn State’s athletic department.
“After achieving one of my life goals of receiving a degree from The Pennsylvania State University, I feel it’s time to continue the pursuit of my dream of becoming a NFL player,” Smith said in a statement.
“We want to thank Donovan and wish him all the best at the next level,” Penn State head coach James Franklin said. “We appreciate his contributions to the program and his dedication to earning his degree this semester, doing so in three-and-a-half years.”
Flowers and Smith are intriguing talents but join a talented senior class of tackles and potential converts to guards, each of which are already considered among the strongest positions in the 2015 draft.
The deadline for underclassmen entering the 2015 NFL draft to inform the league of their intentions is January 15.
Agamemnon2015 NFL Draft: Huskies LB/RB Shaq Thompson headed to the NFL
By Dane Brugler | NFLDraftScout.com Senior Analyst
January 5, 2015 12:34 pm ETShaq Thompson scored four defensive touchdowns in 2014. (Getty Images)Shaq Thompson scored four defensive touchdowns in 2014. (Getty Images)
Washington linebacker Shaq Thompson announced Monday morning that he will skip his senior season and enter the 2015 NFL Draft. The junior also played offense for the Huskies, but his NFL future is expected to be on defense.
Thompson is currently ranked as the No. 10 overall prospect by NFLDraftScout.com and the top-ranked linebacker in the upcoming class. He is a projected top-15 pick with the versatility to fit any defensive scheme.
“I feel that I have accomplished a lot here in these past three years, and I’m so thankful to everyone for helping me achieve my goals,” said Thompson in a statement. “Now I’m looking forward to achieving a new set of goals, facing new challenges that come with being in the NFL. I’m excited to start the draft process, the next chapter in my life, but will forever and always be a Husky!”
Thompson was a two-way player for the Huskies in 2014, starring at linebacker on defense and running back on offense. He finished his junior year with 81 total tackles, three forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries, adding 463 rushing yards on offense and six total touchdowns (four on defense, two on offense). Thompson earned First Team All-Pac 12 and All-American honors and won the Paul Hornung Award as college football’s most versatile performer.
“Shaq Thompson has been a wonderful representative of the University of Washington and the Husky football team, and he has our full support as he takes this important step,” said Coach Chris Petersen said. “I look forward to what’s to come for him and to watching him embark on what will be a long, successful NFL career.”
Breaking him down as a NFL prospect, Thompson is an above average athlete with the pursuit speed to chase down ballcarriers and the closing burst and veracity to be a fierce finisher. He trusts what he sees and plays with excellent ball instincts, tearing through blocks to show up at the ball. Thompson does a nice job with his strike zone to wrap and finish as a tackler, using proper technique by distributing power through his hips. He does need to improve his take-on strength to better stack and shed blockers, but Thompson understands field leverage and aggressively attacks at the point of attack, making it tough to contain him.
AgamemnonIs it possible Fisher could take a
defensive player with the first pick?w
vSure, if they think he is good enough. We picked Donald last year. He wasn’t a need, but he worked out. Even before the draft our defensive line was the strong point of the team. 😉
Agamemnon1 *Trae Waynes 6-0 185 4.52 Michigan State
2 *PJ Williams 5-11 195 4.5 Florida State
3 *Alex Carter 6-0 200 4.45 Stanford
4 Ifo Ekpre-Olomu 5-9 185 4.45 Oregon
5 *Marcus Peters 5-11 200 4.5 WashingtonI don’t think there is a shutdown corner. A couple of these guys will probably go in the first round. I think Snead likes Williams. I think DBs are pretty well stocked.
Agamemnon
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