Cruzer's College Football Draft Scouting

New Draft year...

2006-12-07T13:09:00.000-05:00

Top QB's...

1. Brady Quinn- The top guy right now. Very seasoned, strong arm, and accurate.
2. Jamarcus Russell- Great athlete, huge talent.
3. Brian Brohm- Heady type with good talent. Overcame injuries, strong year.
4. Troy Smith- Too short, but has all intangibles to win. Needs to develop.
5. Drew Stanton- Good leader, didn't get much help. Good value.
6. Tyler Palko- Good size, but a huge drop off. Middle rounds
7. Kevin Kolb- Big arm, good size.

My final mock...

2006-04-28T11:56:00.000-04:00

This list is final...First Round1. Houston-- Reggie Bush, RB, USC2. New Orleans-- Mario Williams, DE, NCSU3. Tennessee-- Matt Leinart, QB, USC4. New York Jets-- D'Brickashaw Ferguson, LT, UVa5. Green Bay-- Vince Young, QB, Texas6. San Francisco-- Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland7. Oakland-- A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU8. Buffalo-- Winston Justice, OT, USC9. Detroit-- Michael Huff, S, Texas10. Arizona-- Jay Cutler, QB, Vandy11. St.Louis-- Broderick Bunkley, DT, FSU12. Cleveland-- Kamerion Wimbley, LB, FSU13. Baltimore-- Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon14. Philly-- Chad Jackson, WR, Florida15. Denver-- Santonio Holmes, WR, OSU16. Miami-- Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa17. Minnesota-- Ernie Sims, LB, FSU18. Dallas-- Antonio Cromartie, CB, FSU19. San Diego-- Tye Hill, CB, Clemson20. Kansas City-- Donte Whitner, S, OSU21. New England-- Manny Lawson, LB, NCSU22. San Francisco-- Jonathon Joseph, CB, SC23. Tampa Bay-- Ashton Yobouty, DB, OSU24. Cincinnati-- Jason Allen, DB, Tennessee25. New York Giants-- Richard Marshall, CB, Fresno St26. Chicago-- Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA27. Carolina-- LenDale White, RB, USC28. Jacksonville-- DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis29. New York Jets-- Nick Mangold, C, OSU30. Indianapolis-- Joseph Addai, RB, LSU31. Seattle-- Jimmie Williams, DB, VT32. Pittsburgh-- Kelly Jennings, DB, MiamiSecond Round33. Houston-- Eric Winston, OT, Miami34. New Orleans-- Bobby Carpenter, LB, OSU35. New York Jets-- Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota36. Green Bay-- Gabe Watson, DT, UM37. Denver-- Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami38. Oakland-- Deuce Lutui, OL, USC39. Tennessee-- Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, BC40. Detroit-- John McCargo, DT, NCSU41. Arizona-- Max Jean-Gilles, OL, Georgia42. Buffalo-- Demeco Ryans, LB, Alabama43. Cleveland-- Maurice Drew, RB, UCLA44. Baltimore-- Davin Joseph, G, OU45. Philly-- D'Qwell Jackson, LB, Maryland46. St.Louis--Ko Simpson, S, SC47. Atlanta-- Marcus McNeill, T, Auburn48. Minnesota-- Kellen Clemens, QB, Oregon49. Dallas-- Abdul Hodge, LB, Iowa50. San Diego-- Tamba Hali, DE, PSU51. Minnesota-- Darryl Tapp, DE, VT52. New England-- Charles Spencer, OL, Pitt53. Washington-- Anthony Fasano, TE, ND54. Kansas City-- Andrew Whitworth, OL, LSU55. Cincinnati-- Joel Klopfenstein, TE, Colorado56. NY Giants-- Thomas Howard, LB, UTEP57. Chicago-- Roger McIntosh, LB, Miami58. Carolina-- Danieal Manning, CB, Abilene Christian59. Tampa Bay-- Darnell Bing, S, USC60. Jacksonville-- Maurice Stovall, WR, ND61. Denver-- Kevin Boothe, OL, Cornell62. Indianapolis-- Jon Alston, LB, Stanford63. Seattle-- Daniel Bullocks, S, Nebraska64. Pittsburgh-- Mark Anderson, DE , AlabamaThird Round65. Houston-- Darryn Colledge, OL, Boise St.66. Houston-- Demetrius Williams, WR, Oregon67. Green Bay-- Greg Jennings, WR, WMU68. Denver-- Jerrious Norwood, RB, MissSt69. Oakland-- Brodie Croyle, QB, Alabama70. Buffalo-- Pat Watkins, S, FSU71. NY Jets-- Travis Wilson, WR, OU72. Arizona-- Claude Wroten, DT, LSU73. Buffalo-- Brian Calhoun, RB74. Detroit-- Rashad Butler, OL, Miami75 New England-- Jonathon Scott, OT, Texas 76 Philadelphia-- Rod Wright, DL, Texas 77 St. Louis-- Devin Hester, KR, Miami 78 Cleveland-- Cedric Griffen, CB, Texas79 Atlanta-- Gerris Wilkinson, LB, Georgia Tech80 Dallas-- David Pittman, CB, Northwestern St.81 San Diego-- Jeremy Trueblood, OL, Boston College 82 Miami-- Ryan O'Callaghan, OL, Cal83 Minnesota-- Terna Nande, LB, Miami (Ohio) 84 San Francisco-- Jason Spitz, C, Louisville85 Kansas City-- Brandon Williams, WR, Wisconsin 86 New England-- Garrett Mills, FB/TE, Tulsa87 New York Giants-- Dee Webb, DB, Florida88 Chicago-- Rob Sims, OL, OSU89 Carolina-- Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State 90 Tampa Bay-- Fred Matua, OL, USC91 Cincinnati-- Kyle Williams, DT, LSU 92 Jacksonville-- Jason Avant, WR, UM 93 Atlanta-- Marcus Hudson, DB, NCS94 Indianapolis-- Babatunde Oshinowo, DT, Stanford95 Minnesota-- Anthony Smith, DB, Syracuse96 Pittsburgh-- Orien Harris, DL, Miami 97 New York Jets-- Dusty Dvoracek, DT, Oklahoma

Updated Top 100, as seen on MotownSports.com...

2006-03-12T06:15:00.000-05:00

1. Reggie Bush, 5'11", 200 lbs; RB USCHe's an every-down superstar. He's by far the best player in this draft. He can kill you so many ways, and is a nightmare to defend. Not only can he run around everybody, but he'll run over people too. Tough cookie.2. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, 6'5", 312 lbs; LT VirginiaShowing up at 312 at the combine answered the last question I had about him. He still looked like he could handle more weight. His one on one drills at the Senior Bowl was legendary. He's a sure bet to be a Pro Bowler soon. He'll also be an expensive player.3. Mario Williams, 6'7", 285 lbs; DE NCSUAt that size, to run a 4.66 forty should be illegal. His motor is fine. Teams had to scheme around him in college. He can move around quite a bit, and has all of the moves a DE needs. He's great against the run.4. Jay Cutler, 6'3", 223 lbs; QB VanderbiltSome people criticize his record at Vandy, but he had no help. He has a gun-slingers mentality, and has the goods to deliver. His arm strength is the best to enter the draft since Kerry Collins. He needs a year, but I can see him being an upper echelon QB before too long. He has a lot of Brett FaRVe in him.5. Vince Young, 6'5", 235 lbs; QB TexasWhen you perform in a big game like the championship game, and you do what he did, there needs to be no other questions asked. His recognition skills are outstanding. He's a great athlete, but he plays faster than he actually is. His pocket awareness is great, he gets the ball to his receivers, his balls are catchable, and doesn't have balls knocked down. He doesn't have elite arm strength, which is why I have him rated behind Cutler. All three QB's are close.6. Matt Leinart, 6'4", 225 lbs; QB USCHe's had it very easy in college, which worries me as he prepares for the NFL. He makes a good point that he went up against a great defense in practice, which is true, but that defense struggled in 2005 at times. He reminds me so much of Bernie Kosar when he came out of Miami, and that isn't bad at all.7. A.J. Hawk, 6'1", 243 lbs; LB OSUJust a football player's football player. Mike Mayock is correct when he says at worst, he's a very good football player, so he's one of the safest picks in this draft. I see him inside, and I rank him so high because he's outstanding against the pass.8. Vernon Davis, 6'3", 255 lbs; TE MarylandPhenomenal physical gifts, and also an outstanding football player. He's a freak, and could be a Pro-Bowl player in his rookie year.9. Michael Huff, 6'2", 205 lbs; FS TexasHe's fast, can play corner or safety, but to me his value is as a safety who can cover man.10. Haloti Ngata, 6'5, 340 lbs, DT OregonVersatile, tough nut. Very comparable to Shaun Rogers. Good motor.11. DeAngelo Williams, 5'8", 205 lbs, RB MemphisVery similar in style to Cadillac Williams, although not as powerful. Quicker though.12. Ernie Sims, 5'11", 225 lbs, LB FSUVery versatile, great player. Weakside guy who will cause havoc.13. Tamba Hali, 6'3", 265 lbs, DE PSUI have him rated higher than most. He's got a great motor, and I like him a lot.14. Tye Hill, 5'9", 183 lbs, CB ClemsonJust a speed freak with very loose hips. Decent ball skills, but nothing to write home about.15. Chad Greenway, 6'2", 242 lbs, LB IowaVery nice upside. Great size, and can play either side. Was flopped in college. Very good in space.16. Chad Jackson, 6'3", 205 lbs, WR FloridaOutstanding speed receiver. Flew up the charts. Great upside. Nice hands, can get better. Looks like he has a chip on his shoulder. I like him.17. LenDale White, 6'1", 255 lbs, RB USCI'm not as high on him as everyone else is. He's not an every down back to me. He needs to lose some weight, isn't very cut. I have a hard time putting him this high. I could be wrong, but I'm down on him.18. Broderick Bunkley, 6'2", 300 lbs, DT FSUThere are two different players in the draft...underrated players like Bunkley, and overrated players like White and Santonio Holmes. Bunkley isn't versatile, he's a one gapper, but a tremendous one.19. Manny Lawson, 6'5", 240 lbs, DE/OLB NCSUHe's also underrated, and he's got numbers to back it up. He's long and lean and very fast. He can play with a hand down, or both up. I think he's a special player.20. Nick Mangold, 6'2", 300 lbs, C OSUHere's a rarity, a solid first round center. And a pretty safe pick. Centers can make good money.21. Jimmy Williams, 6'2", 205 lbs, CB VTIt's disappointing when someone with this much talent isn't much higher on the list because of issues. He needs to concentrate on becoming a better player and person, because he has the talent to be first rate.22. Eric Winston, 6'6", 302 lbs, OT MiamiSome team is going to be very happy down the road that they took him. He's loaded with upside, and when he gets it together he'll be really good.23. Sinorice Moss, 5'8", 183 lbs, WR MiamiLightning quick off the line of scrimmage. Is fast and quick, and will be a Steve Smith type of receiver.24. Winston Justice, 6'5", 300 lbs, OT USCGood ability, but he'll have to adjust. I don't see him as a right tackle, he might move inside to left guard. He's a pretty good player.25. Laurence Maroney, 5'11", 205 lbs, RB MinnesotaRuns too upright, this might be low, I do like him. Right now he's one dimensional, needs to diversify his game.26. Leonard Pope, 6'7", 250 lbs, TE GeorgiaGreat hands, great size. Not a great blocker.27. Mathias Kiwanuka, 6'5", 262 lbs, DE BCGreat wingspan. Still raw, but has an upside. Very good motor.28. Ashton Youboty, 6'1", 190 lbs, CB OSUGreat size, good corner for Tampa styled defense. Cover 2 type corner.29. Bobby Carpenter, 6'3", 255 lbs, OLB OSUHe'd be rated higher if he was healthier. He's still a very good player. Great intensity, plays well in games.30. DeMeco Ryans, 6'1", 229 lbs, LB AlabamaI'm hot and cold on him. Sometimes he flashes, sometimes he struggles in space. This might be too high for him, or too low. He's very hard to read right now.31. Santonio Holmes, 5'11", 205, WR OSU32. Donte Whitner, 5'11", 205, S OSU33. Kelly Jennings, 5'11", 171, CB Miami34. Dusty Dvoracek, 6'2", 301, DT/DE OU35. Kamerion Wimbley, 6'3", 245 DE FSU36. Ko Simpson, 6'0", 200 S South Carolina37. Davin Joseph, 6'2", 304, LG OU38. Antonio Cromartie, 6'2", 205, CB FSU39. Marcedes Lewis, 6'6", 255 TE UCLA40. Gabe Watson, 6'4", 341 DT UM41. Charles Spencer, 6'5", 338, OG Pitt42. Jason Allen, 6'2", 200, S Tennessee43. Charles Gordon, 5'11", 180 CB Kansas44. Joseph Addai, 5'11", 210, RB LSU45. Deuce Lutui, 6'5", 338, OG USC46. D'Qwell Jackson, 6'0", 228, LB Maryland47. Marcus McNeill, 6'8", 322 OT Auburn48. Max Jean-Gilles, 6'4", 358, OL Georgia49. Abdul Hodge, 6'0", 233 LB Iowa50. Rod Wright, 6'5", 305 DT Texas51. Dominique Byrd, 6'2", 252 TE USC52. Parys Haralson, 6'1", 250 DE Tennessee53. Daryn Colledge, 6'4", 296 OL Boise St.54. Anthony Fasano, 6'4", 255 TE ND55. Daryl Tapp, 6'1", 257 DE VT56. Alan Zemaitis, 6'2, 205 CB PSU57. Darnell Bing, 6'2, 220 SS USC58. Demetrius Williams, 6'1", 185 WR Oregon59. Orien Harris, 6'3", 302 DL Miami60. Charlie Whitehurst, 6'4", 225 QB Clemson61. Maurice Drew, 5'7", 205 RB UCLA62. Jason Avant, 6'0", 210 WR UM63. Mark Anderson, 6'4", 255 DE Alabama64. Anthony Smith, 5'11, 192, S Syracuse65. Daniel Bullocks, 6'0", 209 S Nebraska66. DeMario Minter, 5'11", 190, CB Georgia67. Ryan O'Callahan, 6'6", 347 OL Cal68. Joel Klopfenstein, 6'5", 250, TE Colorado69. Dee Webb, 5'11", 180 CB Florida70. Jonathon Scott, 6'6", 310, OL Texas71. Elvis Dumervil, 5'11", 258, DE Louisville72. Maurice Stovall, 6'4", 216 WR ND73. Greg Blue, 6'2", 220, S Georgia74. Andrew Whitworth, 6'7", 330 OT LSU75. Claude Wroten, 6'2" 295 DT LSU76. Jeremy Trueblood, 6'8", 316 OT BC77. Joe Toledo, 6'5", 295, OL Washington78. Bernard Pollard, 6'2", 225 S Purdue79. Greg Jennings, 5'11, 205, WR WMU80. Tony Scheffler, 6'6", 250 TE WMU81. Rocky McIntosh, 6'2", 235 LB Miami82. Brodie Croyle, 6'2", 200 QB Alabama83. Martin Nance, 6'4", 208 WR Miami (Ohio)84. Richard Marshall, 5'11", 190, CB Fresno St85. Jesse Mahelona, 6'0", 310, DT Tennessee86. Brian Calhoun, 5'10", 195 RB Wisconsin87. Omar Jacobs, 6'4", 225 QB Bowling Green88. Jonathon Joseph, 5'11", 195, CB South Carolina89. Jerome Harrison, 5'9", 195, RB WashSt90. Cedric Griffen, 6'0", 192, CB Texas91. Derek Hagen, 6'0", 202 WR ASU92. Gerris Wilkerson, 6'3", 234 LB GT93. Reggie McNeal, 6'2", 205 QB? TA&M94. Mike Hass, 6'1", 210 WR Oregon State95. Owen Daniels, 6'4" 245 TE Wisconsin96. Pat Watkins, 6'4", 205 S FSU97. Greg Lee 6'0", 200 WR Pitt98. Jonathon Lewis, 6'1", 304 DT VT99. Andre Hall, 5'8", 203 RB South Florida100. Leon Washington, 5'8" 210 RB FSU

Offensive linemen at the combine...

2006-02-25T12:06:00.000-05:00

Watching offensive linemen, the one who I'm taking a liking to is Charles Spencer of Pittsburgh. He played left tackle, but projects to be a left guard. He's 6'5", 354, and is very athletic. Nick Mangold is head and shoulders the best center out there, but I don't think he's an upgrade over Raiola. Brick showed up at the combine weighing 312, removing any doubt about him. He carries the extra 15 lbs well. There's plenty to choose from here. I'll get on the other position groups as the combines go on.

My list of the top 100 players available for the 2006 NFL draft...

2006-01-01T07:02:00.000-05:00

1. Reggie Bush, RB, USC 2. Matt Leinart, QB, USC 3. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, LT, UVA 4. Mario Williams, DE, NCSU 5. AJ Hawk, LB, OSU 6. Deangelo Williams, RB, Memphis 7. Vince Young, QB *, Texas 8. Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, BC 9. Jimmy Williams, CB/S, VT 10. Tamba Hali, DE, PS 11. Michael Huff, CB/S, Texas 12. DeMeco Ryans, LB, Bama 13. Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon 14. Eric Winston, T *, Miami 15. Laurence Maroney, RB, Minn 16. Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland 17. Marcus McNeill, T, Auburn 18. Jay Cutler, QB, Vandy 19. Winston Justice, T, USC 20. Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa 21. Elvis Dumervil, DE, Louisville 22. Orien Harris, DT, Miami 23. Thomas Howard, LB, UTEP 24. LenDale White, RB, USC 25. LaRon Landry, S, LSU 26. Ryan O'Callaghan, T, Cal 27. Santonio Holmes, WR, OSU 28. Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA 29. Brodrick Bunkley, DT, FSU 30. Darnell Bing, S, USC 31. Leonard Pope, TE, GA 32. Derrick Hagan, WR, ASU 33. Jason Spitz, G, Louisville 34. D'Qwell Jackson, LB, Maryland 35. Bobby Carpenter, LB, OSU 36. Claude Wroten, DT, LSU 37. Kelly Jennings, CB, Miami 38. Abdul Hodge, LB, Iowa 39. Kamerion Wimbley, DE, FSU 40. Tye Hill, CB, Clemson 41. Jonathon Scott, T, Texas 42. Max-Jean Gilles, G, GA 43. Chad Jackson, WR, UF 44. Rod Wright, DT, Texas 45. AJ Nicholson, LB, FSU**Soon to be in jail** 46. Dominique Byrd, TE, USC 47. Gabe Watson, DT, UM 48. DeMario Minter, CB, GA 49. Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami 50. Davin Joseph, G, OU 51. Darryn Colledge, T, Boise 52. Alan Zemaitis, CB *, PSU 53. Anwar Phillips, CB, PSU 54. Babatunde Oshinowo, DT, Stanford 55. Ray Edwards, DE, Purdue 56. Darryl Tapp, DE, VT 57. Joe Klopfenstein, TE, Colorado 58. Jeremy Trueblood, T, BC 59. Greg Blue, S *, GA 60. Jason Allen, CB, Tenn 61. Nick Mangold, C, OSU 62. Titus Adams, DT, Neb 63. Rocky McIntosh, LB, Miami 64. Anthony Smith, S, Syracuse 65. Darrell Hackney, QB, UAB 66. Joseph Addai, RB, LSU 67. Jason Hill, WR *, WSU 68. Mike Hass, WR, OreStU 69. Will Allen, G, Texas 70. Paul Pinegar, QB, Fresno 71. James Wyche, DE, Syr 72. Demetrius Williams, WR, Oregon 73. Maurice Stovall, WR *, ND 74. Reggie McNeal, QB *, TA&M 75. Tim Day, TE, Oregon 76. Jesse Mahelona, DT, Tenn 77. Spencer Havner, LB, UCLA 78. Martin Nance, WR, Miami (Ohio) 79. Bernard Pollard, S, Purdue 80. Pat Watkins, S, FSU 81. Jason Avant, WR, UM 82. Jabari Levey, T, South Carolina 83. Taitusi Lutui, G, USC 84. Bruce Gradkowski, QB, Toledo 85. Will Blackmon, CB, BC (also WR, better CB prospect) 86. Mark Anderson, DE, Bama 87. Kellen Clemens, QB *, Oregon 88. Skyler Green, WR, LSU 89. Dwayne Slay, S, Tex Tech 90. Cameron Vaughn, LB, LSU 91. Anthony Schlegel, LB, OSU 92. Kyle Williams, DT, LSU 93. Greg Eslinger, C, Minny 94. Parys Haralson, DE, Tenn 95. Kevin Simon, LB, Tenn 96. Cedric Griffen, CB, Texas 97. Brett Basanez, QB, NU 98. DonTrell Moore, RB, NMSU 99. Tim McGarigle, LB, NU 100. Jerome Harrison, RB, WSU

Top ILB's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-11-15T16:02:00.000-05:00

1. Ahmad Brooks, Virginia, 6'4", 249 lbs.
2. Abdul Hodge, Iowa, 6'2", 234 lbs.
3. D'Qwell Jackson, Maryland, 6'0", 233 lbs.
4. Kevin Simon, Tennessee, 5'11", 225 lbs.
5. Tim McGarigle, Northwestern, 6'1", 235 lbs.
6. Justin London, UCLA, 6'1", 234 lbs.
7. Trent Bray, Oregon State, 6'1", 237 lbs.
8. Freddie Roach, Alabama, 6'2", 239 lbs.
9. Anthony Schlegel, Ohio State, 6'2", 245 lbs.
10. Aaron Harris, Texas, 6'0", 235 lbs.
11. Dale Robinson, Arizona State, 6'1", 232 lbs.
12. William Freeman, Furman, 6'3", 245 lbs.
13. Tim Dobbins, Iowa State, 6'1", 245 lbs.
14. Chad Anderson, Kentucky, 6'2", 250 lbs.
15. John Spytak, Rice, 6'2", 240 lbs.
16. Leon Williams, Miami (FL), 6'4", 237 lbs.
17. Lawrence Pinson, Oklahoma State, 6'1", 245 lbs.
18. Collin Allred, Baylor, 6'2", 233 lbs.

The first round usually isn't a round desired by NFL teams to pick MLB's, but this draft is an exception. The first three are definitely first round picks, although health concerns may push Brooks back a bit. This is a position of need in the NFL, and should be supplemented very well here.

Top OLB's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-10-26T10:58:00.000-04:00

1. A.J. Hawk, Ohio State, 6'1", 238 lbs.
2. Chad Greenway, Iowa, 6'4", 234 lbs.
3. DeMeco Ryans, Alabama, 6'2", 232 lbs.
4. Ernie Sims, Florida State, 6'0", 220 lbs.
5. Bobby Carpenter, Ohio State, 6'3", 255 lbs.
6. Thomas Howard, UTEP, 6'3", 240 lbs.
7. A.J. Nicholson, Florida State, 6'2", 235 lbs.
8. Spencer Havner, UCLA, 6'4", 245 lbs.
9. Roger McIntosh, Miami (Fla), 6'3", 237 lbs.
10. Terna Nande, Miami (Ohio), 6'1", 230 lbs.
11. Will Derting, Washington State, 6'0", 233 lbs.
12. Gerris Wilkerson, Georgia Tech, 6'4", 230 lbs.
13. Omar Gaither, Tennessee, 6'2", 225 lbs.
14. Dallas Sartz, Southern Cal, 6'5", 240 lbs.
15. Clint Ingram, Oklahoma, 6'1", 236 lbs.
16. Travis Williams, Auburn, 6'1", 207 lbs.
17. John Alston, Stanford, 6'1", 220 lbs.
18. Keith Ellison, Oregon State, 6'2", 227 lbs.
19. Paul Walkenhorst, BYU, 6'6", 260 lbs.
20. William Kershaw, Maryland, 6'3", 232 lbs.
21. Oliver Hoyte, North Carolina State, 6'3", 252 lbs.
22. Pierre Woods, Michigan, 6'5", 247 lbs.
23. Jamar Williams, Arizona, 6'1", 244 lbs.
24. Moses Osemwegie, Vanderbilt, 6'0", 220 lbs.
25. Brandon Hoyte, Notre Dame, 5'11", 235 lbs.

Just a great, deep class for a position in need of replenishing in the NFL. This is the best LB class in a long time.

Quarterbacks...

2005-10-16T10:07:00.000-04:00

So far, it has been an interesting year for the QB's that may or may not be a part of this draft. Matt Leinart will definitely be drafted high, but at the rate he's going right now, he's going to be too dinged up and will start slipping greatly. He's had a couple of concussions so far this year, and that will be a definite problem in the near future. I would definitely shy away from drafting him, especially where he's projected to go at the top of the draft. If I needed a QB at the top of the draft, I'd go with Vince Young right now. He has a stronger arm, and is more athletically gifted. He isn't getting enough play as a top choice, but he's my choice right now. Brady Quinn is also playing extremely well, he's my #3 right now. I like him and Drew Stanton a lot, but he has the advantage of being an understudy to Charlie Weis, and has a little bit stronger arm. Jay Cutler has a strong arm, but the play by his teammates is so spotty that it's tough to get a really good handle on him. His accuracy has been poor at times, but he's throwing on the run, and getting hit an awful lot. He's fallen to the fourth/fifth round area. Reggie McNeal had also been struggling as of late, until yesterday when he led the Aggies to a rout over Oklahoma State. He's an awesome athlete, and will be a pretty versatile guy in the NFL. If he can't play QB, then he can play other positions, but he has an extremely strong arm that needs to be harnessed. He's also a smart player. Another player floating under the radar is Oregon's Kellen Clemens, who threw an amazing 36 of 48 for 425 yards, 4 TD's, and 0 Int's. He's bulleting up my charts, and could end up being a low first rounder.

Mario Williams...

2005-10-08T02:18:00.000-04:00

Mario Williams is very similar to Julius Peppers. Reminds me of him in many ways, including size, strength, athleticism, etc. His star is on the rise, and it could shoot him up the charts, all the way to the #1 pick. Guys this big who can make this big of an impact don't come around very often. He does tend to get blocked often, but I remember the same thing with Peppers. Fact is, he'll always be game-planned, and that also has to be taken into consideration.

Top DT's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-10-06T10:33:00.000-04:00

1. Rodrique Wright, Texas, 6'5", 305 lbs.
2. Haloti Ngata, Oregon, 6'5", 338 lbs.
3. Jesse Mahelona, Tennessee, 6'2", 300 lbs.
4. Claude Wroten, LSU, 6'2", 293 lbs.
5. Gabe Watson, UM, 6'4", 331 lbs.
6. Orien Harris, Miami (Fla.), 6'4", 300 lbs.
7. Babatunde Oshinowo, Stanford, 6'2", 321 lbs.
8. Jonathon Lewis, Va Tech, 6'1", 308 lbs.
9. Dusty Dvoracek, Oklahoma, 6'3", 298 lbs.
10. Le Kevin Smith, Nebraska, 6'2", 305 lbs.
11. Steve Fifita, Utah, 6'0", 322 lbs.
12. Manase Hopoi, Washington, 6'4", 285 lbs.
13. Brodrick Bunkley, Fla St., 6'3", 291 lbs.

There's some talent, but a down year in a small, but deep group. Some of these guys really have to get their motors running.

Top DE's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-09-25T15:34:00.000-04:00

1. Mathias Kiwanuka, Boston College, 6'7", 261 lbs. 4.75 40 time
2. Tamba Hali, Penn St., 6'3", 267 lbs.
3. Darryl Tapp, Virginia Tech, 6'1", 268 lbs.
4. Kamerion Wimbley, Florida State, 6'4", 255 lbs.
5. Parys Haralson, Tennessee, 6'2", 255 lbs.
6. Manase Hopoi, Washington, 6'4", 285 lbs.
7. James Wyche, Syracuse, 6'6", 267 lbs.
8. Eric Henderson, Georgia Tech, 6'3", 265 lbs.
9. Manny Lawson, North Carolina St., 6'5", 245 lbs.
10. Devan Long, Oregon, 6'4", 266 lbs.
11. Mark Anderson, Alabama, 6'5", 253 lbs.
12. Frostee Rucker, Southern Cal, 6'4", 255 lbs.
13. Charles Bennett, Clemson, 6'4", 275 lbs.
14. Victor Adeyanju, Indiana, 6'4", 275 lbs.
15. Javon Nanton, Miami (FL), 6'3", 240 lbs.
16. Mitchell Crossley, Bowling Green, 6'3", 248 lbs.

Not a good group, but sure to be improved position-wise by an extremely strong group of Junior pass rushers, lead by Mario Williams of NC State, who might be as good as Kiwi.

Reggie McNeal...

2005-09-22T21:31:00.000-04:00

Had a marvelous game vs. SMU (weak competition alert), and showed off his extraordinary talents. Not since Michael Vick has there been a QB with the athletic ability and arm that he possessess. The only question that remains to be seen is how tall he is. If he's at least a legit 6'1", 6'2"; then he rockets up the charts. Nevertheless, his strong accurate arm and super fast feet should play in the NFL. He's #1 on my board right now.

Mike Hass, WR, Oregon State...

2005-09-17T03:04:00.000-04:00

Obviously the best Wide Receiver in college football right now, his superior route running, quickness, ball skills, and hands allow him to catch balls at will at this level. One would wonder how much his 40 time will affect where he goes next April. It would behoove the teams in need of a wideout to watch tapes of him. He's magnificent. He can't be covered. Right now he has 20 catches in two games (333 yards) against Portland St. and Boise State.

Upon further review...

2005-09-16T09:18:00.000-04:00

Although I'm not a big fan of scouting players against inferior competition, a few words about Michigan State vs. Hawaii. Michigan State is for real, at least offensively. Drew Stanton's really coming on as a top versatile QB, who will be in the mix as a top 5 pick in the future. He has all the tangibles (arm strength, quickness, size, accuracy) and intangibles (leadership ability, vision, decision making skills) to be an elite NFL QB. Jehuu Caulcrick is right there with him, as a 6'0", 243 lb. super sophomore. He's a great back with great speed and power. He's the player everyone thought Ron Dayne was suppose to be. Also, their team strength is in their offensive line. Chris Morris is climbing up the charts at center. He's bigger than the small but athletic set coming out this year, and he's more physical. I definitely see him as an NFL starter. Right now, he's a candidate for going on the first day. This team is loaded, and should be regarded as one of the top teams in the Big 10, if not the entire country.

AJ Hawk...

2005-09-13T17:07:00.000-04:00

He's a versatile guy. He can fit in any system, at any position. His value is as high as anybody's in the entire draft right now. There isn't much more upside to him, since his play is already up there. No question in my mind that he's the best defensive player in college football right now, and will be a great one in the NFL.

Washington State...

2005-09-10T09:12:00.000-04:00

Very impressive win over undermanned Nevada team. Washington State features such prospects as Jerome Henderson at RB, a mid to late round 3d down type; Jason Hill, a deep threat and maybe a first round pick at WR, Michael Bumpus, a super sophomore who returns kicks for TD's, and is their #2 WR; Troy Bienemann, a talented TE who'll be one of the top TE's this year; a talented o-line, and talent on their defense lead by SR's LB Will Derting and CB Alex Teems. Also was extremely impressed with their QB, Sophomore Alex Brink. He has good arm strength, and shows a lot of moxie out there. This might be the second best team in the Pac 10.

Top C's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-09-10T09:01:00.000-04:00

1. Greg Eslinger, Minnesota, 6'3", 285 lbs.
2. Mike Degory, Florida, 6'6", 296 lbs.
3. Ryan Cook, New Mexico, 6'7", 316 lbs.
4. Donovan Raiola, Wisconsin, 6'3", 294 lbs.
5. Marvin Phillip, California, 6'2", 280 lbs.
6. Will Montgomery, Virginia Tech, 6'3", 301 lbs.
7. Nick Mangold, Ohio State, 6'4", 290 lbs.
8. David Castillo, Florida State, 6'2", 304 lbs.
9. Grayling Love, Arizona State, 6'3", 297 lbs.

Opening weekend rundown...

2005-09-06T14:57:00.000-04:00

DeAngelo Williams is going to have a tough time with both the scheme and offensive line of Memphis. Although Ole Miss showed up with one of the best defenses I've seen in a while. DT's Michael Bozeman and McKinley Boykin, along with superstar LB Patrick Willis are one my radar. Willis is a JR, but has the stuff to make the jump after this year. Louisville was also impressive to me, as super Soph Brian Brohm led them over Kentucky. They have a nice experienced group of WR's, including Montrell Jones, Broderick Clark, and Joshua Tinch, along with fine Jr RB Michael Bush. Their offensive line is experienced, and very good, led by Sr LT Jeremy Darveau, Sr C Jason Spitz (who I like a lot), and RT Travis Leffew. Florida State and Miami hooked up in a sloppy, disappointing game. RB Leon Washington didn't show much, but Jr. RB Lorenzo Booker did; against an upper tier defense in Miami. FSU's best players on defense include Jr DT Clifton Dickson, LB's Ernie Sims, Buster Davis, A.J. Nicholson, and SR FS Pat Watkins. LT Eric Winston, an early first round projection this year, didn't disappoint for Miami. JR RB Tyrone Moss looked very good running the ball for Miami, but their offense will struggle with QB Kyle Wright. Their defense is loaded, with great DT's in Orien Harris and Baraka Atkins, RE Thomas Carroll, SR LB's Rocky McIntosh and Leon Williams. Superstar JR Devin Hester had a disappointing game, but he has the talent to be a top player in the NFL, so he deserves further scrutiny.

Top Guards, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-09-04T16:39:00.000-04:00

1. Davin Joseph, Oklahoma, 6'3", 306 lbs.
2. Max-Jean Gilles, Georgia, 6'4", 340 lbs.
3. Patrick Ross, Boston College, 6'4", 295 lbs.
4. Mark Setterstrom, Minnesota, 6'3", 295 lbs.
5. Charles Spencer, Pittsburgh, 6'5", 330 lbs.
6. Ryan O'Callahan, California, 6'7", 340 lbs.
7. Aaron Lips, Louisiana Tech, 6'5", 295 lbs.
8. Matt Lentz, Michigan, 6'6", 305 lbs.
9. Nate Livings, LSU, 6'5", 295 lbs.
10. Jason Spitz, Louisville, 6'4", 308 lbs.

Quite an athletic group here. Gilles and O'Callahan may both switch to Tackle in the NFL on the right side, although that position will be very deep. 300 pounders are a dime a dozen these days, these are some good players that can pull and trap.

Marcedes Lewis...

2005-09-04T00:47:00.000-04:00

Reminds me of Mike Williams a lot. I don't know if he's ever going to block well enough to be a TE in the NFL. He can definitely improve on that area. He's a tough matchup in the passing game, looking fabulous against SD State.

September 1 games...

2005-09-02T03:52:00.000-04:00

Watched a little bit of Minnesota and Tulsa. Tulsa was disappointing, expected to see a really good offense, but Minnesota's defense looked very good. Maroney was outstanding, but did against poor competition. He's a superstar, though. Arizona State surprised me with 63 points against Temple. Their defense is a question mark. South Carolina had a decent game, beating UCF 24-15. Much better games coming up on Saturday.

Top T's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-08-26T11:44:00.000-04:00

1. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia, 6'5", 295 lbs.
2. Eric Winston, Miami (Fla.), 6'7", 310 lbs.
3. Jonathon Scott, Texas, 6'7", 310 lbs.
4. Marcus McNeill, Auburn, 6'9", 337 lbs.
5. Andrew Whitworth, LSU, 6'7", 325 lbs.
6. Jeremy Trueblood, Boston College, 6'9", 330 lbs.
7. Adam Stenavich, Michigan, 6'5", 317 lbs.
8. Travis Lefew, Louisville, 6'4", 301 lbs.
9. Jabari Levey, South Carolina, 6'6", 312 lbs.
10. Darren Colledge, Boise State, 6'5", 298 lbs.
11. Zach Strief, Northwestern, 6'7", 335 lbs.
12. Taitusi Lutui, Southern California, 6'6", 370 lbs.
13. Jami Hightower, Texas A&M, 6'4", 355 lbs.
14. Mark LeVoir, Notre Dame, 6'7", 315 lbs.
15. Albert Toeaina, Tennessee, 6'6", 350 lbs.
16. Tre' Stallings, Ole Miss, 6'4", 315 lbs.
17. Troy Reddick, Auburn, 6'5", 335 lbs.

Wow! What a class! This is a talented group. One of the best years for Tackles ever! Very talented, versatile, and deep. What more could you want?

Top TE's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-08-17T04:47:00.000-04:00

1. Marcedes Lewis, UCLA, 6'6", 256 lbs.
2. Tim Day, Oregon, 6'4", 265 lbs.
3. Dominique Byrd, USC, 6'3", 260 lbs.
4. Matt Herrian, Nebraska, 6'5", 240 lbs.
5. T.J. Williams, North Carolina State, 6'3", 253 lbs.
6. Tony Sheffler, Western Michigan, 6'6", 251 lbs.
7. Jeff King, Virginia Tech, 6'5", 246 lbs.
8. Charles Davis, Purdue, 6'6", 260 lbs.
9. Joel Klopfenstein, Colorado, 6'6", 245 lbs.
10. Troy Bienemann, Washington State, 6'4", 245 lbs.
11. David Thomas, Texas, 6'3", 245 lbs.
12. Garrett Mills, Tulsa, 6'2", 232 lbs.
13. Tim Massaquoi, Michigan, 6'4", 248 lbs.
14. Ryan Hamby, Ohio State, 6'5", 250 lbs.
15. Cooper Wallace, Auburn, 6'4", 265 lbs.

A much better group than the past couple of drafts, so this group should fill in a few holes around the league. I'm a huge fan of Lewis, who will be the first one taken.

Top FB's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-08-07T19:24:00.000-04:00

1. Matt Bernstein, Wisconsin, 6'2", 266 lbs.
2. J.D. Runnels, Oklahoma, 6'0", 237 lbs.
3. Rashon Powers-Neal, Notre Dame, 6'2", 240 lbs.
4. Quadtrine Hill, Miami-Florida, 6'2", 221 lbs.
5. Lawrence Vickers, Colorado, 6'2", 235 lbs.
6. B.J. Dean, Florida, 5'11", 258 lbs.

The fullback position isn't dead yet. Expect this group to replace a lot of the older FB's in the league. There's still a great deal of use to get out of the position. Bernstein is a true stud.

Top WR's according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-08-01T18:48:00.000-04:00

1. Derek Hagan, Arizona State, 6'2", 197 lbs.
2. Martin Nance, Miami (Ohio), 6'5", 210 lbs.
3. Todd Wadkins, BYU, 6'3", 185 lbs.
4. Clinton Solomon, Iowa, 6'3", 195 lbs.
5. Travis Wilson, Oklahoma, 6'3", 213 lbs.
6. Demetrius Williams, Oregon, 6'2", 191 lbs.
7. Jason Avant, Michigan, 6'1", 210 lbs.
8. John Madsen, Utah, 6'5", 220 lbs.
9. Skyler Green, LSU, 5'10", 195 lbs.
10. Greg Jennings, Western Michigan, 5'11", 192 lbs.
11. Jovon Bouknight, Wyoming, 6'1", 189 lbs.
12. Maurice Stovall, Notre Dame, 6'5", 220 lbs.
13. David Anderson, Colorodo State, 5'11", 195 lbs.
14. Jonathon Orr, Wisconsin, 6'3", 190 lbs.
15. Mike Hass, Oregon State, 6'1", 209 lbs.
16. Sean Coffey, Missouri, 6'5", 220 lbs.
17. Dallas Baker, Florida, 6'3", 200 lbs.
18. Jared Ellerson, Minnesota, 6'1", 200 lbs.
19. Nichiren Flowers, Nevada, 6'3", 210 lbs.
20. Hank Baskett, New Mexico, 6'4, 220 lbs.
21. Troy Bergeron, Georgia Force (AFL), 6'2", 190 lbs.

Top RB's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-07-23T00:24:00.000-04:00

1. Deangelo Williams, Memphis, 5'10", 217 lbs.
2. Gerald Riggs Jr., Tennessee, 6'0", 220 lbs.
3. Leon Washington, Florida State, 5'9", 202 lbs.
4. DonTrell Moore, New Mexico, 5'10", 208 lbs.
5. Wali Lundy, Virginia, 5'10", 214 lbs.
6. Joseph Addai, LSU, 6'0", 210 lbs.
7. P.J. Daniels, Georgia Tech, 5'10", 210 lbs.
8. Mike Bell, Arizona, 6'1", 218 lbs.
9. Damien Rhodes, Syracuse, 6'0", 217 lbs.
10. Jerod Void, Purdue, 6'2", 212 lbs.
11. Cedric Humes, Virginia Tech, 6'1", 233 lbs.
12. Josh Allen, Maryland, 5'11", 201 lbs.
13. J.R. Lemon, Stanford, 6'1", 225 lbs.
14. Andre Hall, South Florida, 5'10", 205 lbs.

Very interesting to see how Williams comes back from his broken leg. Good depth here, lots of value.

Top QB's, according to NFL Draft Countdown...

2005-07-22T23:20:00.000-04:00

1. Matt Leinart, USC 6'5", 225 lbs.
2. Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson, 6'4", 220 lbs.
3. Kellen Clemens, Oregon, 6'2", 218 lbs.
4. Paul Pinegar, Fresno State, 6'4, 220 lbs.
5. Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M, 6'2", 206 lbs.
6. Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt, 6'4", 225 lbs.
7. Brodie Coyle, Alabama, 6'3", 205 lbs.
8. Darrell Hackney, UAB, 6'2", 240 lbs.
9. Josh Betts, Miami (Ohio), 6'3", 225 lbs.
10. Brad Smith, Missouri, 6'2", 210 lbs.
11. Bruce Gradkowski, Toledo, 6'2", 210 lbs.

Overall, a pretty good group. I should be able to get a good look at each of them. I can see the Lions having some interest in a few of these, especially Pinegar.