Scouting the 2008 WR’s

April 25th, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

Here is a look at the playmakers of 2008, your WR’s:

1 4 Kelly Malcolm Oklahoma U WR 6036v 224v 4.50e I
Impressive looking player with excellent hands, body control & ability to adjust to the ball. Catches equally well on or off his person. Uses size to effectively shield defender on under routes or in the red zone. Has the athletic ability & strength to avoid the hold up and the speed to climb a defender on his open releases. Liked ability to snatch the ball away from his body. Should factor quickly as an inside receiver & develop into a frontline player.

Malcolm Kelly
2 5 Thomas Devin Michigan St WR 6017v 216v 4.43v I
Has excellent athletic skills, versatility, good hands, and was a real threat after the catch. Runs well and showed the ability to accelerate at the top of the route. Potential # 1 receiver with a club. Top return potential (quick, instinctive, breaks tackles and has a burst). Six catches as a soph and 79 as a junior. Used mostly on slip screens and shallow screens. Round 1 draft consideration
3 86 Manningham Mario Michigan U WR 5116v 181v 4.45v G
A talented receiver who runs well in his pads. Is a proven commodity with athletic ability who makes big game changing plays on the football. Showed a good take off on open releases and broke off a point effectively. Excellent tracking skills paticularly on the deep ball and has soft hands (don’t watch Ohio St). Changes speeds well and will contribute within the running game. Late 1 top of the 2nd draft consideration.
4 5 Caldwell Andre Florida U WR 6002v 204v 4.38v I
Go to receiver who has regained the foot speed he had prior to his knee surgery. Has size, experience & has been a very productive player. Works underneath effectively. Solid run after skills. Impressive getting in and out of a break on speed cuts. Gets head around & locates the ball. I really liked his work at the senior bowl, where he showed his skills and savvy. Bigger, faster & more powerfully built then what I remembered. Mid 2nd round draft
5 9 Doucet Early LSU WR 6001v 209v 4.53v F
Skilled receiver with size, speed, quicks, body control & hands. Gets head around and in and out of a break well. Adequate RAC and instincts. Had problem with him running the in route from the left side (too much chopping). Can avoid the hold up effectively with both power & finesse releases. Will work away from the ball and contribute in the run game. Bottom of the 1st round top of the 2nd draft potential. Not a great one but has few holes. Anquan Boldin clone.
6 2 Avery Donnie Houston U WR 5111v 182v 4.36v I
A very fluid, talented athlete. Explosive on his take off. Closes the cushion quickly & got in and out of a break extremely well. Has good but not exceptional hands. Showed courage & has the ability to make the difficult off target catch. After the catch was dangerous in space and when he saw a crack, he was gone. Had some problems with his deep over the shoulder adjustments & didn’t always finish vertically. Should contribute quickly. Round 2 consideration.
7 4 Sweed Limas Texas U WR 6037v 215v 4.56v F
Was injured for much of the 2007 season. Has rare size and a huge receiving radius and although realize he has a tremendous amount of playing potential, but I thought he lacked concentration and consistency. Tracks the ball extremely well. I particularly liked the way he adjusted to the deep ball. Very awkward getting into a lateral break (plants his heels). Still too many unknowns to consider this player in either of the top two rounds.
8 1 Jackson DeSean California U WR 5096v 169v 4.39v G
Undersized “Z” receiver with rare speed & as natural a pass catcher as there is in this year’s draft. An outstanding athlete with rare quickness and body control. Comes out of a break with a lot of juice. Works back to the ball with confidence & can snatch it away from his body. lightening in the bottle after the catch. Dangerous punt return man who can take it to the house. Will get lazy in his routes and lose his concentration. Acutely undersized. Round 2 – 3
9 85 Douglas Harry Louisville U WR 5112v 176v 4.54v G
Talented player with rare timed speed. Is quick, fast, smart, tough and competitive. Gets in and out of a break well although I felt he got open more by scheme rather then by individual routes. Excellent instincts run vision. On the negative side, he is really small (can he hold up)? Competed inside, seldom won in traffic. Dropped far too many balls on contact. Is a ball player, but I wouldn’t roll the dice too soon on this player. Round 2 – 3 consideration
10 27 Nelson Jordy Kansas St WR 6025v 217v 4.53v I
Top nickel and inside receiving prospect. Has size and can uncover effectively underneath. Good zone awareness and ability to catch on and off his person. Will catch on contact and gets N-S quickly.Is sneaky fast, but lacks the juice to run away from the top defenders in the NFL Can make the difficult catch and showed good sideline awareness. Good block effort (adequate results). Is going to surprise a lot of people at the pro level. Round 3-4.
11 4 Royal Eddie Virginia Tech WR 5095v 184v 4.46v G
Little man, who was both quick and fast. Has good hands but likes the ball in on his body whenever possible. Has small hands and a short receving radius. Has the quicks and feet to avoid the hold up, but was more effective lining up in the slot. Can track down the field, but doesn’t offer the QB much in the way of a target. Questionable to win in traffic. Adept KO and punt returner; catches well, hits the crease and goes. Gd courage and judgement. Round 3 – 4.
12 82 Hardy James Indiana U WR 6053v 217v 4.53v F
Early entrant into draft. IU records for receptions (191) yards (2,740) and TD (36). Played 2 years of basketball before focusing totally on football. Rare size, firm hands and physical dexterity. Has good speed but doesn’t have quick speed. Wasn’t physical or creative as a runner after the catch and did little to nothing away from the ball (won’t block). Gave up on balls far too quickly and goes down too easily after the catch.Primarily a red zone threat at this stage.
13 21 Moore Kenneth Wake Forest U WR 5106v 195v 4.50v G
Productive and very tough inside receiver. Former RB with very good hands (will catch on contact). Ran predominately choice routes between the numbers with no fear or apprehension. Showed running strength and was creative after the catch. Runs well, but I question whether he has the juice to separate vertically at the next level. A highly dependable return man who should factor at the pro level as a multi-purpose inside slot receiver. Round 4 – 5.
14 19 Burton Keenan Kentucky U WR 6004v 201v 4.49v I
Really like this players overall game. Competes very hard in both games and practice and prepares himself like a pro on game week. Has good hands, playing smarts and position awareness, but does not play near as fast as his timed speed. I didn’t see any glaring negatives in this player’s game, but he also may not have a true long suit (non factor vs LSU and Vandy). Don’t see starting potential, but should factor as a back up, returner and special teams performer.
15 19 Hubbard Paul Wisconsin U WR 6026v 221v 4.48v F
Outstanding size and speed / top prep triple jumper in the country. Very limited playing production in 07. Drops too many easy ones in my opinion to be considered with the top level of receivers. Good body control and route quickness. Can adjust on the move and find the open area. Skilled player, but just does not play to his timed speed. A 3rd receiver type who with experience could develop into a functional second. Has 3-4 round draft potential.
16 14 Shields Arman Richmond U WR 6006v 193v 4.40v I
Played in only two games in 07. An athlete with size, firm hands & tracking ability. Closes the cushion quickly on his open release & can track the ball downfield. On his under routes drops his base & got in and out of his routes (some flag). Uses his body to effectively shield the defender from the ball & will catch in contact. Adjusts on the move and sat in the zone hole effectively. Good teams background although is not a returner.Solid middle rd potential (4-5).
17 19 Simpson Jerome Coastal Carolina WR 6016v 198v 4.44v I
Good body control, size and the ability track & catch the ball.. Is smart and adaptable, but was raw and underdeveloped in terms of athletic ability & position skills (question route running skills & speed to separate).. Loved the way he went upcompeted for the ball in traffic. Simply “out athletes” people at this level of play. A semi long stride, who was not a burner, but there is no question as to his ability to make the difficult catch..5th to 7th consideration.
18 10 Bennett Earl Vanderbilt U WR 5114v 209v 4.52v F
Productive, game ready player. Has quick feet, and got in and out of his routes well and was a confident catcher. Good zone awareness. Made easy adjustments to off target throws. Can make the difficult catch and showed sideline awareness. Don’t see a lot of foot speed or vertical separation skills. I see him as a steady contributing nickel receiver. Similar to the Giants Steve Smith in playing style. Should be given solid 4th round consideration.
19 22 Hall D.J. Alabama U WR 6017v 193v 4.59v F
A some off the field baggage which will need to be addressed at the scouting combine and spring workouts. Early on didn’t buy into Saban’s program, but came around during the fall. Has been a playmaker over his career. Has size, very good physical dexterity and showed the ability to track ball and separate vertically. Will drop balls (concentration) and his timed speed is not near what I expected. Late 3rd to early 4th consideration.
20 22 Alridge Anthony Houston U WR 5090v 170v 4.39v G
College running back who also alligns in the slot. Has rare speed and quickness. Is undersized but showed excellent running instincts. Has feet, body control and balance, but was not as fluid out of a laterall break as I expected him to be. Will need some refinement of skills, and isn’t a big man, but has a chance to be something special as a receiver, KOR and special situation back.Not a believer; see UTEP, Oregon, and Rice. Draft consideration round 3 – 4.
21 13 Johnson Steve Kentucky U WR 6017v 210v 4.52v F
Late bloomer. Has size and straight speed but was very inconsistent as an underclassman. Much improved hands confidence and playing toughness. Wouldn’t work inside the numbers in the past, and although isn’t a sure thing in this area has improved a good deal. Don’t think he is a natural catcher, but my gut tells me we haven’t seen the best from this player yet. Size and speed are a hard combination to beat. Has strong early second day consideration
22 9 Bryant Dorien Purdue U WR 5096v 174v 4.51v G
Up and down performer in 07.Has outstanding speed and a vertical burst (can run by you). Is undersized & didn’t catch the ball as clean as one would want. Dangerous in the open field & as a return man. Did little away from the ball or within the running game. Awful blocker (very little effort). Pain in the butt, but not a bad kid. Talks too much. Literally took over the Iowa game. Similar, but not as explosive as Ted Ginn. Round 3-4 consideration.
23 3 Franklin Will Missouri U WR 6004v 214v 4.39v I
Has size & real talent, but was disappointed in his overall game, Wasn’t tough & didn’t make plays in competitive situation. After the catch will hit the deck when he sensed body heat (watching too many pro games). Virtually all of his production was outside the hash & underneith. Does show route quicks & has the body control to be outstanding in this area. Top talent, but is not the same player when the bullets start to fly. Round 3-5 consideration.
24 2 Morgan Josh Virginia Tech WR 6002v 219v 4.45v I
I really liked his physical stature and speed, but does not have natural hands (dropped far too many balls). Has track speed, but will clutch to start, thus negating his both quicks and explosive in his open releases. Vs the press, will gives up chest off the go. Has good hands and can stem a route effectively but his uneven concentration and attention to detail bothers me (2 drops vs UNC).
25 12 Bowman Adarius Oklahoma St WR 6027v 223v 4.77v F
Has been a productive player since transferring from UNC in 2005, but I was rather disappointed in his play at the senior bowl practices. Very stiff running style who didn’t show the speed to push a defender on his open releases.Can’t drop his hips on his under routes. I liked his size, but in my opinion was not a natural catcher. Mismatches many defenders and showed some strength after the catch, but wasn’t nifty or instinctive. Would not give this player 1st day draft consideration.
26 2 Reynaud Darius West Virginia U WR 5092v 201v 4.51v G
Talented athletic receiver who caught a majority of his passes on bubble and slip screens, hitches and shallow crosses. Has firm hands, can make off target adjustments and catch on contact. Adept catching both off and on his person. After the catch, got north south quickly while showing creativity after the catch. showed a burst to run under the deep ball, but lacks the juice to separate vertically. Solid KOR prospect Late consideration who has a chance.
27 16 Purify Maurice Nebraska U WR 6031v 224v 4.53v F
Has size, athletic ability and body quicks. Firm hands & catching range, although his concentration level was not always evident. Runs well in his pads, but not a true race horse. Can break off a point on his under routes showing strength after the catch. High ceiling, but his position skills are far from fully developed. Add to the puzzle some highly publicized off the field issues and we see an incomplete puzzle developing. Risk – Reward Player Rd. 5-7.
28 81 Harper Justin Virginia Tech WR 6034v 213v 4.61v F
Has all of the physical qualities you look for in a professional receiver, something appears to be missing. Has good hands and was best on underneith routes where he caught the ball and turned up the field. Showed a tendency to breaks off his routes (doesn’t finish) Was neither coverage aware or very instinctive. Didn’t compete for the ball on the inside. Should be a dominent player but wasn’t. Draft consideration 5 – 6
29 85 Monk Marcus Arkansas U WR 6042v 221v 4.51v F
Big slot receiver who gives a club a huge miss match advantage particularly in the red zone or on crossing routes. Needs a pre release to consistently get into his routes. Can reach and extend away form the body. A special situation player who just doesn’t have the juice one looks for at the position. Wasn’t sudden in and out of a break and lack the top speed to separate vertically, but in the right offensive system could contribute significantly in the under zones. Round 4 to 5 draft potential.
30 7 Hawkins Lavelle California U WR 5110v 187v 4.59v F
A skilled receiver who showed come immaturity in the past (will pout and isn’t the toughest guy on the block. Has shown very good route running and catching skills. Was a dependable third down receiver working in the under zones and was adept working the sidelines. Gives you some added return potential. Lacks the deep speed to factor as a vertical threat, and doesn’t process quickly (need to keep it simple) Late round draft potential / 6-7
31 2 Jackson Dexter Appalachian St WR 5094v 182v 4.37v G
Little guy with a great deal of speed and quickness. Did some double catching but overall I thought he caught the ball well. Explosive in and out of a break. showed the ability to adjust and run under the ball on vertical routes. After the catch runs away from people in the open field. Not as savvy as David Patton, but has more more acceleration. In spite of his size, proved to be a tough guy on the inside. Round 6 to 7 consideration.
32 2 Blackman Darrell No Carolina St WR 5103v 210v 4.62v F
Former RB who has proven to be a tough versatile player. I liked his hands and his ability to catch with confidence. After the catch I liked his toughness and vision. Needs further route development, but feel this player has the skills to factor in a professional setting. Return skills only enhance this players overall potential . Not an instant study, but could contribute quickly in a number of ways. Has late second day draft potential. Round 6 – 7.
33 86 Henry Marcus Kansas U WR 6035v 207v 4.58v F
The star of the East West shrine game, was just a guy during the 07 season. Is a good atlete with size, but was an inconsistent catcher. Lacks route polish (raw) and his hands were inconsistent. Doesn’t create either after the catch or as a route runner (gets open by offensive design). Has a real chance (should be a good test athlete), but needs a great deal of development in his individual routes. Strong late round draft consideration (6 -7)..
34 4 Smith Tajiddin Syracuse U WR 6003v 187v 4.63v F
Bakersfield JC transfer. Is a great kid who has overcome a great deal in his life. Has graduated but will not return for a 6th year. Is smart, has good speed and ran good routes, but his hands were just adequate (Didn’t make any wow catches). Faster then combine timed speed. Going to have to make it as your 4th or 5th receiver since he does not play or have potential to play on teams. 6th to 7th round draft consideration.
35 11 Caddell Matt Alabama U WR 5103v 185v 4.42v G
I was really impressed with this players hands, body control and overall body dexterity (made some very good off target adjustments in games viewed). Smooth route runner who can track and adjust to the ball. Has speed (sneaky fast), but lacks the juice to consistently separate vertically from defenders. Will contribute within the running game. Round 6 – 7
36 1 Garcon Pierre Mount Union College WR 5117v 210v 4.44v I
Good looking player from a physical and athletic standpoint. Has been dominant player at this level of competition (D-III), although was very impressive when he lined up on the big stage (post season all star game). Not elusive, but was a strong instinctive runner after the catch. Had some problems coming out of his break on his underneith routes. Need a great deal of position developmental work, but has size and skills. Round 6 – 7.
37 4 Smith Marcus New Mexico U WR 6012v 221v 4.59v F
Former RB who made the transition to a wide receiver position two season’s ago. Is a good looking individual physically (strong) Appeared very stiff as a route runner and although was strong, just doesn’t have the juice. Lacks separation speed on his intermediate and deep route. Has been very productive (91 catches for 1,125) using only about a third of the route tree, but only scored 4 TD’s. Would give late round consideration within the league.
38 1 Grice-Mullen Ryan Hawaii U WR 5100v 187v 4.55v G
Undersized inside receiver with skills but lacks vertical speed to separate vertically from defenders. Has been very productive within their passing game over the past two seasons, but his potential is further eroded by the fact that he is not a returner and due to his lack of size is not likely to factor as a special team’s player. Caught an amazing 237 passes and 36 TD’s over a three year career. Has a chance of being drafted, but is more likely a free agent
39 16 Arrington Adrian Michigan U WR 6027v 203v 4.57v F
Solid complimentary receiver. Has good athletic ability and size, but didn’t show the necessary speed to separate vertically and was unremarkable after the catch. If he can effectively play on teams, has a chance to make it as a 4th or 5th receiver. Worked away from the ball and ran pretty fair routes but there was nothing special in this players game. Would give late round consideration based on his size and moderate play production.
40 7 Bess Davone Hawaii U WR 5097v 194v 4.76v F
Highly productive inside receiver with good hands and after the catch run instincts . Has essentially turned his life around over the past three years after some juvenile problems. Has very good zone awareness and the ability to convert. Works back to the ball and was a dangerous runner after the catch. Does not run well on a clock, but plays fast. Sure handed effecient punt return man. Workout numbers were not impressive, but this guy is a football player.
41 84 Rivers Jason Hawaii U WR 6012v 200v 4.62v F
Not very tough nor was he very physical. Will drop in traffic and didn’t work inside the numbers with a lot of confidence. Would question his speed and deep separation skills. Said to be immature and mouthy, but is not considered a thug. Has good size and was effective in the short zones. Has late late round league draft potential but is more likely a priority free agent.
42 6 Robinson Kevin Utah St WR 5116v 196v 4.67v F
Has been an outstanding return man throughout his collegiate career. Is a play maker who can make things happen after the catch, but lacks the speed and surprisingly neither a polished route runner and or catcher.. I felt he got in and out of a route effectively, with adequate tracking skills. On deep routes, lacks the burst at the top of the route (didn’t separate vertically). Has a chance basically on the strength of his returns.
43 5 Raymond Paul Brown U WR 5091v 176v 4.39v G
Undersized raw talent with impressive tools, but at the outset is a very long way from playing at the professional level. Has the speed to flat out run away from people at this level., but routes were not precise or polished. A fast twitch athlete who was explosive on his take off from (open release). Not as productive as I would have expected and is acutely undersized. Kick returner background is a plus. Late potential, but is more likely priority FA
48 Carter Xavier LSU WR 6014e 180e 4.30e I
Left Squad prior to the start of the 2006 season to run in the pro track circuit.. Rare speed (might well be the fastest man in the world), has a powerful loping stride and eats up ground very quickly. Has a good frame (tight muscular body), adequate hands and very good athletic ability. Was an outstanding prep football player. Home run threat and an effective KOR man as a frosh and soph. Not natural stemmng a route. Probable Olympic team, but can’t overlook.
49 1 Schilens Chez San Diego St WR 6037v 208v 4.39v I
2007 season was slowed with a stress fracture to his right foot. Has rare size and straight speed. Wide catching radius. Played in only 8 games in 07 and caught 22 of his 35 passes in the final three games of the season. Does not play as fast as his timed speed. Long strider who was just adequate in and out of a break. Top rated prep baseball player (Tigers # 34 in 2003). Has too much size and speed to ignore. Late round or priority free agent consideration.
44 7 Urrutia Mario Louisville U WR 6053v 232v 4.63v F
Other then his physical stature, I didn’t see much that I liked about this player’s game. Drops far too many catch able balls, wasn’t tough inside, was a very stiff route runner, and lacks the speed to separate on vertical routes. Wasn’t a confident catcher and showed little in the way of route quickness. Somebody is going to draft this player, but I don’t see much that I liked about this player’s game.
45 8 Jenkins Darnell Miami U WR 5092v 187v 4.68v F
Good athletes with quickness, body control, and eye-hand coordination. Was disappointed with his overall speed, but I liked his play making ability. Has battled injuries throughout his playing career and is not as polished as one would expect coming from this program. Not special run instincts after the catch, but has made some big plays in 07. Late round or priority FA consideration.
46 12 Arthur Jabari Akron U WR 6033v 225v 4.65e F
A big Canadian, who was originally recruited to play quarterback. Catches everything thrown in his direction. A pure possession receive who worked effectively in the under zonesr. Is tall with long limbs and big hands, but is just not very fast. Can’t separate vertically but was surprisingly an impressive runner after the catch (broke secured tackles and showed some awareness in the open field). Draft consideration round # 7.
47 81 Fagg De’Cody Florida St WR 6012v 211v 4.66v F
Was injured at the 2008 combine (leg fx) which might well require him to miss the 2008 season. Has size and although not a natural catcher, I thought he did a good job of adjusting on or off his body. Tendency to round things off underneith. Not fast but can close the cushion on his open releases. Tracks the ball well on vertical routes. Built like a RB. Was effected by his teams lack of a consistentcy at QB, Late draft prior to injury. Not likely to be drafted
87 McIntosh Nicolas College of the Sequoias WR 6010e 185e 4.30e
Might well be the second fastest prep player in Florida history. State 100 and 200 meter champion. Signed with the U of Florida but did not qualify. Attended Dodge City CC (red shirted in 2004), before transferring to the College of the Sequoias. Haitian decent. Signed with Toronto of the CFL in 2007

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Scouting the 2008 TE’s

April 25th, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

With the draft just a day away, it is finally time to reveal the scouting reports of the top offensive players in the country and we will start with the TE;s

3 28 Keller Dustin Purdue U TE 6020v 242v 4.59v G
Very impressive athlete who only lacks size to become a top pro TE or H. Runs extremely well, has excellent body control, and hands to catch the ball on or off his person. A legitimate up the seam threat who flashed run instincts to go along with the strength to break secured tackles. Adequate blocker who initially gets into his block, but didn’t finish with any consistentcy. Will need to improve his overall functional play strength. Late 1 top of 2nd consideration.

Dustin Keller
1 83 Davis Fred USC TE 6030v 255v 4.73v G
Outstanding prep wide receiver (10.8 100M). Is still in many ways a work in progres who has not come near his potential as a player.Good initial quickness on his get off. Got in and out of a break on his under routes while posing an up the seam threat. Improving as a blocker although needs to finish with far more consistentcy. Not there yet, but in time will give a club the best two way potential in this year’s draft. Possible 1st top of 2nd consideration.
2 13 Bennett Martellus Texas A&M TE 6061v 259v 4.69v I
Has a great body and potentially is one talented football player. A physical player at the point of attack with very good body control particularly for a big man. Is much improved as a receiver. Had some concentration drops, but I like catching radius and his ability to win in traffic. Far more physical then I had originally expected. Can drop his weight and get in and out of a route effectively. Is young and said to be a “me guy” who will need to mature. Round 1 consideration.
4 89 Carlson John Notre Dame TE 6051v 251v 4.89v F
Big, smart, athletic, experienced, instinctive football player. Felt he caught the ball well in the under zones although in not a true seam threat (lacks foot speed). Not really nifty after the catch, but did show some body strength, got north-south and worked to finish. Inline was an adequate blocker who came off flat backed, hit on the rise and stayed with his blocks. A solid back up early who could in time develop into a solid regular. Round # 3 draft consideration
5 82 Stevens Craig California U TE 6032v 254v 4.63v I
An impressive ball player. Has a good frame to add bulk and strength, runs well and is very solid athlete. I felt he had wide receiver type hands and the quickness and speed to threaten up the seam. As a blocker, wasn’t either punishing or a big finisher, but was smart and efficient. Positions after contact (brings his feet around) and stays with blocks. Very good feet and balance. Solid H back prospect who should factor in the mid rounds (4th to 5th).
6 80 Cottam Brad Tennessee U TE 6074v 270v 4.74v I
Injured for most of the 2007 season. Is extremely tall with long limbs and big hands. The best area of his game was without question in the passing game. Has very good hands, a wide receiving radius and was extremely difficut to stop in the under zones. Used his body to shield defenders from the football. Will have a difficult time functioning as a blocker at the pro level (high center of gravity – can’t leverage the point). Second day draft consideration
7 82 Rucker Martin Missouri U TE 6047v 251v 4.71v I
A late bloomer who is a one dimentional TE prospect. Catches well and was a strong runner after the catch. Money in the bank in the under zones. Lacks the true speed to pose an up the seam threat. Is neither as quick or fast as I originally expected and lacks the essential core strength necessary to contribute at the point of attack. Played too high and got little or no movement. Needs to fit into your offensive scheme. Rd 3-4 draft consideration.
8 80 Freeman-Davis Kellen Michigan St TE 6064v 262v 4.64v E
Has size and flashed catching skills. Has the ability to run down the seam, but I felt he was stiff and didn’t get in and out of his under routes especially well. Can’t and didn’t appear to have much “want to” blocking inline. Dropped too many balls in critical situations. A classic underachiever (should dominate in all aspects, but didn’t). High maintenance. Mid round consideration. Draft consideration rounds 4 – 5.
9 18 Tamme Jacob Kentucky U TE 6034v 236v 4.59v G
In the right system could become a very effective player. Can run (straight line), catch and advance the ball. Good to find and settle in the zone hole. Outstanding ball skills. Smart player with great intangibles. Poses a vertical up the seam threat. Disappointing in traffic. Ineffective contributor within the running game (marginal blocker). Too stiff to play WR and not stout enough for TE. Draft consideration 4 – 5.
10 82 Barnidge Gary Louisville U TE 6055v 243v 4.65v J
Has physical limitations; isn’t big by today’s standards, was stiff & mechanical in his movement and doesn’t have good play strength, but none the less is a very under rated ball player. Is smart, showed good route awareness, was tough, competitive, caught and advanced the ball up the field after the catch is going to have to improve his block skills, but should fill the role of a steady back-up TE within the league. 4 – 5 draft consideration
11 16 Finley Jermichael Texas U TE 6042v 243v 4.85v J
Was injured for much of the 2007 season. Has rare size and a huge receiving radius and although realize he has a tremendous amount of playing potential, but I thought he lacked concentration and consistency. Tracks the ball extremely well. I particularly liked the way he adjusted to the deep ball. Very awkward getting into a lateral break (plants his heels). Still too many unknowns to consider this player in either of the first day
12 19 Finley Joe Jon Oklahoma U TE 6062v 254v 4.95v F
A former prep quarterback with good hands and intelligence. Was effective in the under zones, but was not what I would consider an up the seam threat. Along the line of scrimmage is a try hard guy, but doesn’t have the leg strength and power to either sustain and or finish (does work at it) If he matures physically, I see him as factoring as a second or third tight end and special teams contributor. Has 5th to 7th round draft potential.
13 14 Strong Darrell Pittsburgh U TE 6040v 268v 4.83v I
Has had some off the field and dedication issues. Prep quarterback and WR. Has excellent size for the position to go along with solid athletic skills, but has never been a fulltime regular at the position. Much improved in 2007 as a blocker and impressed me with his Hula Bowl receiving ability. In the passing game, I felt he needed room to be effective (didn’t see him win a contested battle for the football). See him as a solid back up at the professional level. Rounds 6-7.
14 80 Haynos Joey Maryland U TE 6075v 266v 4.92v F
Has a basketball background. Good athlete who caught the ball well in the under zones. Can reach and extend for the ball . Wasn’t flashy or insitinctive, but turned it up and advanced the ball. Not a power player (may well be too tall). Has a very high center of gravity which made it difficult for him to leverage people inline. Not a washout, but will have to play in the right system in order to have any successful. Mid second day consideration (6th to 7th).

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Scouting the 2008 Safeties

April 22nd, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

Tom Marino takes on the safeties of the 2008 NFL draft.

1 1 Phillips Kenny  Miami U DS 6022v 212v 4.51v I
Athletic big man who runs well in his pads.  Comes down hill quickly and enters the fray with good control. Good angles on wide plays and hits with force. In coverage, keys the defense and made all of the back end adjustments. I liked his movement (pedal, turns and range), but just didn’t  get into the throwing lanes or make many plays on the ball.  Game appears to be all ahead of him.  Top round consideration
2 38 Smith Reggie Oklahoma U DS 6004v 199v 4.58v I
Showed smooth athletic movement, good feet & supple hips, but I didn’t see a sudden explosive movement or close to the ball. A proto-type cover two corner or safety. Tough enough, but far from a head hunter. Injured toe late and didn’t run at the Indy combine.  Good zone awareness. Not as quick or fast as I had originally expected, but I liked his size, playing instincts, and ball skills. Return ability & teams play are a added plus. Draft consideration round 2 – 3.
3 10 Demps Quintin Texas-El Paso DS 5117v 206v 4.40v I
Is a good looking athlete from a physical standpoint and made plays on the ball in flight. Reads the QB’s eyes & shoulders and moves to the football. Has excellent speed anticipation and playing range (speed to play half coverage). The major negative  that I saw with this player was his total lack of interest and production within the running game (was neither physical or very tough). Has tools, but will need to become a more willing participant. Round 3 – 4
4 7 Morgan DaJuan No Carolina St DS 6001v 203v 4.55v I
Has size & some playing savvy, but wasn’t a fast twitch athlete. Is stiff in his pedal & I would seriously question his ability to match up with a receiver in the slot. Double moves give him some serious problems (FSU). Best area’s of his game were his take on, tackling skills in the open field & his willingness to fill the lane. Coverage limitations concern me, but he can improve in this area & develop into a productive special team player & eventual starter within the league. 
5 4 Decoud Thomas  California U DS 6013v 207v 4.56v I
Merton Hanks type player and body type. Showed a lot of playing range and impressive ball skills. Will fill the ally when called upon (not a big hitter), but was more effective in coverage. Has a chance to play out on a wing in nickel. I really liked his ball playing instincts and ability to sort things out. Solid back up, with a chance to factor in time. Good special teams potential. Has solid second day draft potential.  Round 4 – 5.
6 16 Johnson Marcellous Arkansas St DS 5117v 207v 4.44v I
A four year starter at the free safety position. Has good size, range, has the speed to stay on top of receiver in half coverage. I liked his zone cover skills (showed awareness, an understanding of routes progressions, and reacted well to the thrown ball (particularly in front of him). Not a big hitter, but gets people off their feet. Not flashy, but I liked his feel for the game. 
10 47 Lynch Corey  Appalachian St DS 6003v 202v 4.56v F
Has excellent ball skills & instincts for the game. Very bright. Very physical tackler who will fill the lane. Has good playing range & anticipation.  Experienced hand that keys the secondary. Limited only by his lack of top end speed, but ran well in pads. Very adept in zone coverage. Gets into the passing lanes & makes plays on the ball. Outstanding team’s potential (has blocked numerous kicks in his career). The type of individual you want on your football club.
11 9 Zbikowski Tommy  Notre Dame DS 5112v 211v 4.53v I
Has not played to near the level expected of him in 07. Dangerous returner who hit it up inside (showed a burst). Based on my exposure doesn’t have the cover skills to match up vs an inside receiver and surprisingly wasn’t a big factor in the running game (played like he was afraid to make a mistake). Has zone awareness and football smarts, but something appeared to be missing. Would question skills if I hadn’t seen him perform as an underclassman. Rd 5-6.
7 25 Wolfe D.J. Oklahoma U DS 5111v 207v 4.65v F
Moved to defensive safety at the start of the season and appeared to get better with each passing week.  Impressed my with his tackling skills and looked more comfortable on the inside. Was alert and showed playing instincts, but I was a tad disappointed with his ball skills. Covers ground and runs well in his pads.  Feel this player could well surprise at the next level and become an eventual starter.  Like his teams potential. Middle round consideration (4 – 5).
8 16 Steltz Craig  LSU DS 6013v 213v 4.64v F
1st year starter and team leader on the backend. Has very good size and playing awareness, particularly in zone coverage. Play the deep ball in the middle of the field particularly well (height & long arms make him a difficult person to throw over). Comes up under control & was an effective in the box run stopper. Questionable long speed and the necessary skills to match up in the slot. Back up early with good teams potential. Mid round consideration. (5 – 6).
9 22 Adams Jamar  Michigan U DS 6021v 212v 4.62v F
I liked the way this athlete’s size, know-how, toughness and the way he prepared (Senior Bowl week), but just didn’t appear to have the necessary speed to get off the hash in half coverage. Fills the ally with abandon and has the body type to win the battle at the point. Sorts things out quickly in quarters and moves to the ball, but made few plays on the ball. Has limitations (not an man cover guy)
12 19 Barrett Josh  Arizona St DS 6016v 223v 4.36v E
Has size, outstanding speed and looks awful pretty in a uniform, but just didn’t make plays. Wasn’t very physical in his play or tough (won’t tackle). Have to question his willingness to compete (won’t tackle) In coverage worked out of a tall deliberate pedal showing just adequate range and ball skills. Just don’t think he sees it or reacts quickly enough. Should be a dominant player, but something appears to be missing.  
13 2 Castille Simeon Alabama U DS 6003v 195v 4.73v F
Is a good college football player, but flat out lacks the speed, acceleration and fast twitch muscle fiber to realistically play out at the corner position in the NFL.  Body type (lean narrow looking) probably make him better suited for the free safety position or a inside nickel guy. Good zone awareness but will have to play in a a cover 2 scheme.  Not a Sammy Knight type (smash mouth player), but I liked his teams potential. and good instincts. Late rd consideration 5 – 6
14 21 Mundy Ryan  West Virginia U DS 6007v 208v 4.65e F
Senior transfer from the U of Michigan at FS. Is a very mature, smart and instinctive player. Makes all the back end calls and adjustemts..Reads the run quickly, comes up under control , and makes plays (not a head hunter, but more then adequate tackler. In zone, covered ground and showed good awareness and ball skills.  Marginal man cover skills.  Impressive in bowl victory vs Oklahoma. If medically sound, has a chance to factor. Round 6 – 7.
15 30 Lyles Nate Virginia U DS 5105v 203v 4.54v G
A tough run support safety who played physical and smart. Somewhat of a tweener in the sense he lacks the size to play inside and doesn’t have the pure cover skills to play out at a corner position. Best suited to play corner in a cover two scheme and inside in nickel.  Has a big upper but thin lower body. A good athlete who showed some explosiveness and a burst.  Some medical concerns (neck). Late round draft or priority free agent consideration. 
16 23 Barber Dominique Minnesota U DS 6002v 210v 4.70v F
Tough guy with size, but wasn’t sudden in his movement, lacks long speed and did not show particularly good ball skills.  Just adequate quickness and playing range. I really liked his physical toughs and competitiveness (playing character), but is in my opinion strictly a two down box safety. Will also give a club top special teams play, but is quite frankly a liability in coverage (man or zone).  Has late second day (6th to 7th round). draft potential. 
17 23 Abdullah Husain Washington St DS 5117v 204v 4.69v F
A four year regular and playmaker who led WSU in both tackles and picks in 2007 (took 2 to the house). Brother plays with the Denver Broncos. Does a lot of things that contribute to winning football games, but does not run well. Is going to have match-up problems with people in the slot and has very questionable recovery skills. Physical tackler who will factor on special teams. Like his game, but has limitations. Late round consideration.
18 11 Keyes Dennis UCLA DS 6005v 205v 4.68v F
Good athlete with good size, feet, body control and the ability to change direction. I liked his range  and ability to makes plays on the ball.  Anticipated well and gets himself into the throwing lanes. Was UCLA’s leading tackler in 07, but wasn’t a consistent wrap up tackler in my opinion (missed far too many in the open feet). My biggest concern was his lack of long speed. Has a lot of positive attributes and should factor as a back up at free safety. Late consideration.
19 14 Horton Chris UCLA DS 6001v 212v 4.60v F
Team leader and the heart and soul of this football team. Is tough and was a physical wrap up tackler (downhill player). Top end speed, close, and ball skills were just adequate. Highly questionable cover skills (loses in transition – always trailing) particularly when covering people on the back end. Has the physical make up and the competitiveness you look for in a special teams player.  Has late round draft  potential if speed and quickness are satisfactory. Round 6 – 7.
20 5 Fields Joseph  Syracuse U DS 6002v 206v 4.60e F
A great kid with intelligence, size & solid athletic skills.  Former option QB (starter as frosh) who has made steady progress over the past 2 seasons. Inexperienced (not quick to see things develop – inconsistent play entry & angles). Vs the pass, showed range but didn’t make a lot of plays on the ball. Should develop into a serviceable player, but is not there yet. Has every intangible you look for in a player. Possible late pick, but more likely a PFA 
21 18 Gliatta Vince Youngstown St DS 6004e 210e 4.65e F
Came out of nowhere to have a solid senior season. Option QB in high school who transferred from  Penn State  after his frosh season. Is a very tough kid, who moved around very well in space, but doesn’t appear to have long speed.  Not natural or very fluid in coverage, but did show good reactions.and toughness. A physical down hill player who will face up a ball carrier (see Ohio St). Has gotten some club’s attension, but is more a free agent.
22 8 Grant Michael Arkansas U DS 5102v 186v 4.41v G
Runs well and showed a true closing burst. Track star in high school. Is short in stature and just wasn’t very instinctive and lacks the hips to play out on a wing. Steady college player, but was far from the complete package. Would have to question just how quickly he sees things develop and reacts. Has inside match up potential, but needs to become more consistent as a as a tackler. Somebody might draft based on his speed, but is more likely a free agent.
23 27 Roach David TCU DS 6003v 210v 4.56v F
Great looking player in his uniform.  Runs well in a straight line and can cover ground, but little or no playing instincts nor was he a productive player.  Vs the run, I never saw him stick his foot in the ground and fill the lane far (too many plays ended up at his feet). Vs the pass, again didn’t react quickly or show either ball skills or instincts. Somebody is going to draft late based on his physical characteristics but this is football and not the Mr. Universe competition.
24 3 Warrick Nehemiah Michigan St DS 6007v 211v 4.56v F
A tough kid, who will light you up if he can get there.  Is good looking physically, with toughs, and is a big hitter.  Fills aggressively inside, but misses more then his share of tackles. Took inconsistent angles away and at times appeared out of control. Speed limits his man cover skills and wasn’t quick to see things develop in zone.  See him as a special team’s player who could in time develop into a contributing back up. Late consideration or priority FA potential 
25 26 Griffin Marcus Texas U DS 5102v 201v 4.81v G
Not near as talented as his football playing brother.  Is smart and has played well on special teams over his career, but his playing instincts were marginal and I felt he missed far too many tackles. Runs ok in his pads, but I didn’t see a closing burst. Don’t see this player as having starting potential, but looks like he may have the overall skills to roster (back up at both safety positions and special team’s contributor). Late round or priority free agent consideration.

 

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