Scouting the 2008 Middle Linebackers

April 21st, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

Here is an in depth look at the Middle Linebackers eligible for the 2008 NFL Draft.

1 55 Rivers Keith USC MB 6022v 241v 4.59v I
Has outstanding playing skills, runs extremely well, and has very good playing instincts. Has absolutely great intangibles.  Good first step quickness and the ability find the ball on the inside.  Doesn’t linger on blocks and closes to the ball extremely well. Will fail to secure at times, but overall was a solid tackler. Versatile; could play all three linebacker positions and never has to come off the field in sub packages. 
2 7 Mayo Jerod Tennessee U MB 6012v 242v 4.59v I
Injured knee late in the 07 season. Young and has a ways to go in terms of strength and keeping his pads down (gets high).  I loved his ability to both meet and defeat pressure inside.  Smart player with very good instincts.  Runs well and showed excellent playing range. Highly productive (Cal. / LSU) although needs more tackle strength.  Very good zone drops and awareness (needs some work in man). Not near his full playing potential. 1st rd consideration.
3 40 Lofton Curtis Oklahoma U MB 6000v 246v 4.71v G
A very impressive football player who had a tremendous amount of plays.  Impacts the game.  Great instincts for the football. Liked the way he filled inside (slips blocks, but also showed some explosive hands and good leverage. Sideline to sideline player.  Drive through tackler who finished.  Don’t see him as a match up guy in pass coverage, but his zone drops were good. Going to play quickly and contribute to winning football games.. Round # 1 consideration.
4 2 Bell Beau UNLV MB 6015v 239v 4.89v I
Explosive hitter who plays hard and fast. Can leverage, play off and runs to the ball.  Excellent speed and backside effort (motor runs on high all of the time. A big hitter (people go backwards on contact). Top teams potential at the professional level. Felt he was marginal in pass coverage (tends to play straight legged -limited reaction). Sustained an MCL injury in Senior Bowl.  Late 2nd to top of 3rd draft potential.
5 56 Butler Ezra  Nevada U MB 6014v 245v 4.53v I
Down guy early who can play and space.  Like the way he met pressure, shed and got to the football. Was both explosive on contact and freaky strong.  Real force coming off the edge in nickel. Injured for much of the 07 season and didn’t play to the same level as he did in 06. A tad tight in coverage (needs work in this area). Excellent teams potential. Possible late 2nd and solid 3rd round draft potential.
6 1 Henderson Erin Maryland U MB 6026v 244v 4.79v F
Has missed playing time due to injuries (knee reconstruction on 2005).  Is not a take on guy (struggled to disengage from blocks inside – plays small). on the inside and I would have to question his overall playing instincts. Struggled some in pass coverage (breakdown in the open field). Was a productive in terms of total tackles who made plays outside the tackle box.  Good range and tackling skills. Far from a complete player, but has some upside.  Round 3 – 4. 
7 7 Highsmith Ali LSU MB 5115v 230v 5.01v F
A highly productive college football player who was short in stature, did not run well and was slow to react at times. Not impressive from an athletic standpoint, but you have to give him his due (made big plays at critical times). Not a take on guy, but effectively slipped blocks and got to the ball inside. Secured well as a tackler. Coverage skills marginal (limited depth with questionable route recognition and reactions). Not athletic enough for “Will” backer.
8 51 Larsen Spencer Arizona U MB 6016v 238v 4.90v F
Productive player with good instincts and playing character.  Somewhat disappointed in his take on skills but has a knack slipping blocks and getting to the football. In pass coverage I felt he was more then adequate settling and reacting in the under zones, but has limited man cover potential. Speed and overall range will limit him to the “Mike” backer position, but looks like a solid back up and special teams contributor. Has mid second day draft potential. Round 5 -6.
9 52 McClain Jameel Syracuse U LB 6006v 249v 4.79v G
Inside LB prospect who will also line up at rush end in nickel. Plays with a lot of energy) and was a productive. Runs well and projects as a special team player.  Some initial indecision in his play but when he saw it came hard. Will take on with the wrong shoulder and play entry was inconsistent but effort was good. In coverage (zone) got depth, but again struggled with his COD. A versatile hard working, old school player. Mid to late round potential (5-6).
10 9 Hall Vince Virginia Tech LB 5110v 232v 4.94v G
A durable, experienced, highly productive football player who possesses just adequate athletic ability. Was not especially pretty in a uniform and doesn’t run well, but made a lot of plays. I really liked his playing smarts, but I was disappointed in his ability to take on and play off blocks (got bounced around inside). Struggles in pass coverage.  Lacks range, movement although did read and react to things in the under zones. Good player but has real limitations
11 47 Goff Jonathon Vanderbilt U MB 6020v 245v 4.71v F
Appeared somewhat top heavy. Is an experienced hands with playing smarts and more then adequate range, but I was disappointed with his overall take on skills on the inside.  Got walled off and had a tendency to hang on blocks. Inconsistent to wrap up inside, particularly in space.  A far more effective player in pass coverage. Got depth in his zone drops and sorted it out quickly.  Looks like a “Sam”, but lack of take on ability concerns me. Late draft consideration.
12 41 Williams Thomas USC MB 6011v 227v 4.79v G
Starting primarily as a result of injuries, but showed a solid skill level.. Liked his play instincts and football smarts. Unselfish player with a lot of heart and playing toughness.  See him as a limited area player (not going to get to the boundary) and I don’t believe him to be as a true asset in pass coverage. Not a fast twitch athlete. Didn’t see top play speed or a closing burst. Late round consideration, but is more likely a priority free agent within the league.
13 47 Leman Jeremy Illinois U MB 6016v 245v 4.95e G
Make a lot of plays, but is as limited an athlete as there is in this year’s player draft.  Tough and highly instinctive. Was non explosive on contact and just doesn’t run well. Very limited play range. Took intelligent angles and played very hard, but doessn’t have the speed or closing burst. Tight in his lower body (hips), which seriously limits his participation in coverage. That being said, has to much smarts and heart not to play, but just isn’t the answer. Rd. 7 or PFA
14 48 Lansanah Danny Connecticut U MB 6003v 248v 4.74v G
Has some athletic ability, but I felt he was somewhat of an underachiever. Good first step movement and playing instincts, but again was not explosive on contact (not sure if he’s the nasty thug team’s look for in the middle). Has the talent to play, but somebody need too light a fire under him (always looks to be costing – no urgency). If he mentally ready in camp has a real chance of factoring as a back up special teams performer. Late compensatory or PFA
15 42 Floyd Dante New Mexico St MB 5110e 235e 4.75e G
Unranked, undersized transfer (LaneyJC) inside linebacker who impressed me with his effort, tenacity and production. Good athletic ability. Playing in an unusuall 3-3-5 scheme where he led his team in tackles in 07. Played inside runs well when he was protected and allowed to run to the ball. Good range and a very good wrap-up tackler with some pop. Not a fit for every club, but project high as a special teams and contributing back up. Late round (7th) or PFA. 
16 59 Moffitt Ben South Florida U MB 6007v 224v 4.67v F
Great young man who loves the game. Try hard guy but was very stiff and had a particularly tough time getting off blocks. Got bounced around pretty good on the inside (catcher) Very much a limited area player who wasn’t stout on the inside. Looked more comfortable in coverage. Got depth in his drops and sorted things out quickly.  Can run with the TE or RB on flat and arrow routes. Has a outside chance of being drafted late, but was more likely a priority FA.

 

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2008 Linebackers

April 21st, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

Here is the scouting report for the class of 2008 linebackers. This report was compiled by NFL scout Tom Marino.

 

40 Connor Dan Penn St LB 6023v 231v 4.65e I
Is an experienced, aggressive, athlete with outstanding playing instincts. Loved his first step quicks, his key & diagnose and ability to get to the ball.  I liked the way he effectively stepped up and met the lead and his tackling ability. Got depth on his spot drops, settled and moved to the ball.  Good hands. The most talented Penn State LB in a quarter century. Some early off the field immaturity (pranks), but it’s absolutely not a problem. Should factor quickly. Round # 1.
52 Gooden Tavares Miami U LB 6012v 234v 4.63v G
Has a world of athletic ability and speed to burn. Has excellent playing range, change of direction and a real burst to the ball. Liked the way he met the lead in the hole.  Doesn’t linger on blocks.  Impressive in both man and zone coverage.  Reads and reacts to the ball in flight. Not a big man by today’s standards, but is what you are looking for at the position.  Top round consideration.
10 Hayes Geno Florida St LB 6007v 226v 4.67v G
Very good athlete with good playing range.  Competitive and very active on the inside. Slips blocks and flies to the ball. Looks and plays somewhat small.  Not a big takes on guy. Will backer prospect who will need to be protected.  Flies around and makes plays (solid tackler). In coverage got good depth, settled, read route, but has poor hands. Should factor early at the pro level. Excellent teams potential. Round 2 draft consideration.
41 Kehl Bryan Brigham Young U LB 6023v 238v 4.59v G
Really liked this prospect’s playing demeanor, athletic ability, range, playing instincts and most importantly his ability in pass coverage.  Also showed blitz speed and the ability alter his course to the ball. Is quick to read and react.  A leverage guy who needs to improve his point strength and explosiveness . Good ball skills and should factor quickly in nickel.  Draft consideration round 3 to 4
44 Dizon Jordon  Colorado U LB 5117v 229v 4.73v G
An outstanding ball player who makes a ton of plays. Plays well in traffic keeping excellent leverage on the ball. Surprising ability to slip blocks and make plays. Excellent playing instincts and the ability to locate the ball on the inside. Very good wrap up tackler. As productive a player as there is in the game. His only true negative I could find was his lack of size. Great special teams potential. Has late 2nd to mid 3 potential.
2 Crable Shawn  Michigan U LB 6051v 241v 4.62v I
Has the speed to run people down from the backside. Long strider who gains ground quickly as an outside rusher.  Good looking arms, shoulders and chest, but lacks lower body girth and strength to play with his hand on the ground on 1st down.. Most effective as a nickel rusher, but is not a washout as a “sam” I really liked his length and play speed (can run people down). Going to take some time, but could develop into a good one in time. Draft consideration 3 – 4.
4 Redd Vince Liberty U LB 6057v 263v 4.61v I
OVA transfer. I liked this players athletic ability, direction change and potential as a edge pass rusher in a 3-4 scheme. Good stride length to top of the rush and bend and use of hands to alter course and finish. Active within the running game showing both range and instincts. Good wrap up tackler.  Possible end in 4-3 scheme. Competition level is a concern, but this is a talented high ceiling player.  Round 3-4.
41 Wheeler Philip  Georgia Tech LB 6017v 240v 4.74v G
A great young man (quiet and humble).  Lacks prototype size for inside play (good natural leverage) .  Plays physical, but has to be covered up or protected. Questionable to take on lead (lacks strength).  Just looked adequate in coverage. Didn’t react or make plays on the ball. In zone, I thought he was slow to react. Was somewhat disappointed in his overall play (thought I was going to see a more athletic, instinctive player.  Round 3 – 4 draft consideration.
11 Adibi Xavier Virginia Tech LB 6016v 232v 4.71v G
Can range to the boundary, but doesn’t make enough wow plays. I liked his energy and playing character. Undersized, doesn’t take on or play through the ball to the ball.  Inconsistent to key and diagnose and locate the football (problem with miss direction and play action). Can range in pass coverage, but made few plays on the ball.  In zone appeared unaware. Not enough production to consider on day one, but should get a lot of attention at the top of rd # 4
44 Humpal Mike Iowa U LB 6024v 244v 4.83v F
Is intelligent (football smart), runs well and gave outstanding effort.  Not as quick or athletic as one would want, but make a lot of plays.  Took good angles away. I just can’t say enough about hisplayiing  instincts.  Might be a little stiff in his spot drops, but worked well in the under zones (spot drops) and can run with the TE down the field. Has good teams potential. Rd 4 – 5
15 Bowen Alvin  Iowa State U LB 6011v 223v 4.88v F
A good athlete and football player who ran well in his pads. Moved to a “sam” in 07, but I see him as more of a “Will” at the pro level.  Showed good playing range and lateral movement. Flies around and makes plays.  Good ability to slip or run around blocks. Took good angles to the football. Would have to think this player would have very good potential on special teams.  Not a big man and will have to add some bulk to his frame. Strong second day consideration.
24 Buggs Marcus Vanderbilt U LB 5104v 233v 4.80e G
Short, thick “Sam” backer prospect with body strength and explosiveness. I liked the way he met pressure and got under (leverage) the lead’d pads. Reads were good and I liked his backside effort and close to the ball.  More of a pure hitter then a consistent wrap up tackler. Should be an effective player in nickel.  Looked aware, showed good feet and some cover skills. Good special teams potential. Round 4 – 5
93 Smith Bryan McNeese St LB 6027v 239v 4.77v F
A talented player who doesn’t plays strong.  Didn’t think he took on or defeated blocks especially well on the inside.  Marginal to see things develop and flow to the ball. Is adequate at best within the passing situations.  Comes hard but just doesn’t vary his moves, counter or finish. Good team’s potential. Has a lot of gifts, but still needs a great deal of development. Mid to late round draft consideration.
48 Gatewood Curtis Vanderbilt U LB 6020v 248v 4.79v F
A talented player who doesn’t plays strong.  Didn’t think he took on or defeated blocks especially well on the inside.  Marginal to see things develop and flow to the ball. Is adequate at best within the passing situations.  Comes hard but just doesn’t vary his moves, counter or finish..Good team’s potential. Has a lot of gifts, but still needs a great deal of development. 
16 Woodyard Wesley  Kentucky U LB 6003v 227v 4.51v G
Highly productive backer with outstanding straight line speed. Has good playing instincts but also appeared to be very stiff and mechanical. Tough and game ready, but is very much a tweener.  Too small for will backer and far too stiff for the back end.  Will be hard to run off, but I don’t know where he fits at the professional level. Has made a lot of plays and should develop into a good special team player. Late round consideration but more likely a priority free agent. 
59 Kegler Stanford Purdue U LB 6015v 239v 4.61v G
Has a good looking well muscled body and impressive athletic skills to factor at the LB position, but I felt he missed an inordinate amount of tackles and wasn’t a physical take on guy at the point of attack.  Has the tool, but needs to continue to put it all together. I liked the way he took on blocks and worked to the football and did show a god effort on plays away, but will need to become more consistent in his overall play. Late draft or priority FA consideration   
6 Grant Larry Ohio St LB 6011v 235v 4.67v G
A highly touted Juco transfer. Is a good athlete who can run, but overall I was disappointed in his lack of instincts and play strength.  Didn’t meet pressure tough and wasn’t an explosive player on contact (not real physical at the point of attack). Not a quick study guy. A run and hit athlete with teams potential at this stage. Saved the best for last (LSU).  Like this player from an athletic standpoint, but is not near where he will need to be. Consider rounds 6 – 7.
22 Myles Lamar Louisville U LB 5114e 220e 4.60e G
Little guy (220 max), who was tough and competitive. Out of position playing on the inside, but may not be athlete enough to line up at the will backer position. A good deal stiffer then I would have expected. Adequate to process, but I didn’t think he showed A-1 playing instincts.  Runs around and made plays, but don’t know where he fits in a pro scheme.  Late round consideration.
11 Jackson Malik  Louisville U LB 6016v 225v 4.65e G
Run around guy who really didn’t make a lot of plays in the game viewed, particularly for a “will backer”. Can run in a straight line and gave dedicated playing effort, but a majority of them were in pursuit or down the field. Not very big or physical and isn’t going to get significantly bigger. Played better as a underclassman. Late round or free agent consideration for somebody else.
54 Brown Titus Mississippi St LB 6025v 247v 4.84v F
A special situation pass rusher who played with his hand on the ground. Had moderate success, but will have to project to a “sam” backer to play at the next level. Has the speed and quickness to came hard off the edge (has a closing burst). but didn’t always finish. Good but not exceptional athlete. Not a disciplined read and react player. Showed enough toughness, range and energy to merit a chance as a developmental player. 
46 Poppinga Kelly Brigham Young U LB 6015v 237v 4.83v
The third member of the football playing family, Kelly does not have exceptional skills  in any skill area, but is a tough consistent and a solid special teams performer  Is never going to be a great one, but I like his chances of playing in a back up, teams role
49 McCollough Ronnie Bethune Cookman LB 5112v 226v 4.75e G
First and foremost a football player. Very productive guy who made virtually every play filed in the games viewed (Hampton 07). Is undersized,  Five times conference player of the week!  Excellent nose for the ball (reads and reacts quickly). Effective in a short area. Factors positively on special team player (great desire & toughness). .Short in stature and has limitations in range, coverage and COD, but will make your ball club. 7th or priority FA consideration.
Green Chad Shaw U LB 6041v 213v 4.67v J
Not in school this past season (accademic disqualification) Has outstanding athletic ability.quickness, rare foot speed and a true closing burst.   I also believe he has the frame to add significant bulk and strength.  Needs a good deal of individual skill development (pro coaching), but has everything you want to become a top performer at this critical position. An impressive workout might earn him late consideration, but is more likely a PFA

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Scouting the 2008 Defensive Tackle’s

April 15th, 2008 — football, NFL, NFL Draft

This is a draft analysis of the top defensive tackles coming out for 2008. The information and scouting reports are all written by Tom Marino who has been a scout in the NFL for over 35 years. You can see the defensive tackle, their school, height/weight. 40 time and NFL grade. You then have their full scouting report followed by their projected draft status and NFL potential.

72 Dorsey Glen  LSU DT 6014v 297v 5.12v G 1.100
A top prospect who converts quickness to power.  Can split a double team, range to make plays and when he came and countered on his pass rush was virtually impossible to single block.  Loved his intensity level , quickness, strength and know how. Strong at the point and showed good movement down the line. Took good angles away and has the speed and quicks to factor outside the tackle boxInjured for much of 07 season. A difference maker.
49 Ellis Sedrick USC DT 6004v 299v 5.08v G 1.140
Ellis has outstanding quickness, body control, range and balance.  Plays with good leverage, has extremely quick strong hands and overall explosiveness.  Can stack, but was more effective playing in the gap. Far better at nose then at a 3 technique. Has short arms and does not appear to have long speed. Very disruptive player in a limited area but is not second coming of Tommy Harris.  A top 10 selection in this year’s player draft. Solid starter potential.
90 Balmer Kentwan  No Carolina U DT 6044v 308v 5.31v F 1.201
One dimensional player.  Is strong, plays on his feet and showed the ability to neutralize. A force playing the double team. As a pass rusher, did get inside push on his bull rush, but needs to keep pads down and develop better hand use. Played hard in every contest viewed.  Tackle to tackle range only. showed good effort in pursuit. A two down player, but could become an every down player if he develops as a rusher. Late 1st or top of the 2nd selection
55 Harrison Marcus  Arkansas U DT 6026v 317v 5.07v I 1.235
Very talented run stopper.  Loved his pad level when meeting blocks and overall leverage.  Stout at the point (can dominate).  Could play both spots inside.  Played the entire 07 season with a recently repaired ACL.  Not what I would consider a top pass rusher (power moves only) but does get some inside push.  Some off the field concerns will need to be addressed, but this is a very good football player who has not reached his full potential. Draft consideration 2 – 3
92 Moore Dre  Maryland U DT 6040v 305v 4.91v I 1.350
Short area player who was a strong space eater on the inside. Didn’t make a a lot of plays, but restricted the running lanes inside and freed up the backers to make plays. Plays on his feet and did a good job stacking the double team. Has good but not exceptional quickness but was ineffective as a pass rusher (strictly a bull rusher who didn’t counter or colaspe the pocket. Round 3 potential, but could go sooner due to team needs and the lack of quality at the top
92 Pressley DeMario  No Carolina St DT 6031v 301v 5.13v I 1.365
Had a disappointing 07 season and senior bowl effort  Was injured for much of the season and did not play to near his skill level. Is a strong inside player who played with good pad level.  Elbow injury (early) may well have effected his use of hands. Good ability to sort things out and move to the ball. As a pass rusher, came off the ball, but didn’t shed effectively on the move nor did he finish. Don’t think we have seen near his best. Round 3 – 4 consideration.
93 Guion Letroy Florida St DT 6033v 303v 5.37v F 1.385
Injured much of career. Is athletic, has good feet, quickness and adequate range. Felt he hustled & showed the ability to make plays outside the tackle box. Will get tall inline & needs to shed blocks more consistently. Lacks A-1 closing speed. Is not there yet, but you are going to have to take this player far earlier then his skill & production level would indicate.  No sacks as a college player.  Problems locating ball on misdirections (see Wake Forest) Round 3 – 4..
98 Laws Trevor  Notre Dame DT 6006v 304v 5.13v G 1.396
Works his butt off. Has very good quickness, plays with leverage and has good strength in his hands. Very intense and physical. Play effort was second to none.  Might not be quick or stout enough to play a nose   A physical drive through tackler. Will fight you, but diesn’t always play big inside (got covered up some by big people).  Has limitations, but overall was a very solid football player. Has stong early second day draft potential.
96 Fluellen Andre  Florida St DT 6007v 296v 5.06v G 1.436
Not ideal size although flashed outstanding quicks, plays hard and gave backside effort. Combative & disruptive within the running game. Can dominate, but will also disappear. Vs the pass his main attribute was his quickness into the “A” gap & burst to the QB. Played injuried for virtually the entire 07 season. When healthy this guy is far better player then he showed in 07. Senior bowl effort was impressive. Round 4 – 5.
97 Okam Frank Texas U DT 6044v 347v 5.37v E 1.481
A big wide body who showed body control & quicks. Plays high, but teams still had a difficult time moving him on the inside. Is very smart (both on and off the field) and experienced, but has no heart or playing character. A underachiever in my opinion. Just not a nasty rub your face in the dirt type (no edge). Overall, you just don’t know what you are going to get with this player. Wouldn’t consider in day 1, but recognize his talent and physical tools. Rd 4.
95 Sims Patrick Auburn U DT 6021v 310v 5.11v E 1.485
Has stability issues which need to be addressed. Played much of 07 with a cast on his lt .hand (Fx).  Has size, but needs to redefine his body (very soft middle & butt).  Flashed get off quick, but lacks stamina and his overall competitive effort. When he kept his pads down, got some push (So Florida), but when they were up got knocked around pretty good (LSU).  Has talent, but wouldn’t risk a first day selection based on his history. Round # 4 
85 Bryant Joseph  Texas A&M DT 6041v 318v 5.06v F 1.486
A big, tough, strong inside guy who played hard, but consistently got his pads up working inside. Is stout and difficult to move around, but did not protect his legs or get over trash effectively. Got some inside push as a bull rusher, but lacks counter skills and change of direction.  Gave up far too much blocking surface and has had some lower body injuries which need to be considered. Best suited to play tackle in a 3-4 look.  Makes your team, but has limitations.  
71 Rubin Ahtyba  Iowa State U DT 6026v 315v 5.24v F 1.516
Offensive tackle as a Juco player.  Big man who has improved a great deal over the past 2 seasons. Is very strong, but is in every sense of the word a work in progress.Showed quickness and some playing range. Can stack inside particularly when he kept his pads down. Questionable play instincts and was inconsistent to find the ball on the inside.  Felt his playing effort varried  Draft consideration; rounds 5 to 6.
96 Dykes Keilen West Virginia U DT 6033v 294v 5.10e F 1.518
A very tough, strong, nose who was a very effective run stopper. Plays very hard, is unselfish and was a consistent performer. Could also play a three technioue.  Is a run stopper who had a good feel for blocks and restricted the “A” gap. Has adequate range, but needs to protect his lower half more effectively. Marginal pass rusher who showed limited counter skills. Blue collar player who will contribute to winning football games. Round 4 – 5.
94 Dixon Marcus Hampton U DT 6040v 292v 5.27v F 1.550
Good looking athlete with size & power. Can stack inside effectively. Good 1st step quicks, hand use & the ability to find the ball. For the most part a bull rusher, but has some counter ability & close. Has a long way to come in terms of learning how to play..  Plays on his feet and is highly intelligent. Involved in a highly publicized rape incident down in Georgia and served 15 months, but was later cleared of the charges. Great young man 4th to 5th rd potential. 
95 Robinson Nate  Akron U DT 6037v 324v 5.15e E 1.680
Highest rated prep DT in the country. Signed with Miami and briefly attended Rutgers.  Just don’t know who is going to show up from game to game.  Has a great deal of talent and size.  Flashes initial quickness and some explosiveness in his hips and hands. Very limited  rush skills (very moves rush moves and or counters). Showed a tendency to wear down in games (questionable conditioning and stamina).A lot of talent, but something is missing here. 
56 Foster Eric Rutgers U DT 6011v 271v 5.00e G 1.731
Undersized defender who showed good initial quickness, range (runs well), leverage, and use of hands.  Liked his competitive effort (showed consistent energy) and effort. His physical stature (or lack of) limits play to that of a tackle in a 3-4 scheme. Is going to have to get stronger, but this guy reminds me a great deal of Rams tackle La’ Roi Glover at a similar stage.  Late round (6th to 7th ) draft consideration. 
95 Smith Henry Texas A&M DT 6023v 310v 5.19v F 1.795
A JC guy with play strength who played with good pad level  inside.  Has a good body, played with good leverage and got some pretty good inside push. Was inconsistent to find the football inside and his feel for blocks was just adequate. Needs to finish better and I don’t believe he has top playing range. Not there yet, but has has some of the things you look for in an inside player. Has an outside chance of being drafted, but is more likely a priority free agent.
99 Powell Carlton Virginia Tech DT 6022v 292v 5.14v G 1.796
Just not a very physical player (played with far too much finesse) Didn’t play through blocks (Never saw him fight across the face of a blocks to the ball). Wasn’t stout at the point of attack nor was he heavy handed. Good snap reaction and gap penetration.  Worked well on his stunts and hustled in pursuit.  Is not void of skills, but is going to have to improve in a number of area’s if he is to play at the professional level. Has late round (7th) or priority free agent.
96 Johnston Brian  Gardner Webb DT 6050v 278v 4.97v J 1.800
A 4 year regular who certainly was a good player, but is going to have to improve hand use, and ability to shed, to be a difference maker.  A former linebacker. Showed a marginal ability to get over trash and get to the football.  As a pass rusher, played with power, but doesn’t have a real plan after his initial engagement. Is an effort guy, but I just don’t see any special skills.  Possible late round selection, but is more likely a priority free agent prospect.
97 Shirley Jason Fresno St DT 6052v 329v 5.04v E 1.799
Is a great looking individual, but was not a particularly good football player.  Very much an underachiever.  Was dismissed from the squad furing the 2007 season. Inner city LA background.  Some off field concerns.  Might be worth a look on the offensive side of the football if his off the field issues  are found to be satisfactory. 
93 McClinton James  Kansas U DT 6000v 293v 5.54v F 1.800
Active undersized three technique. Has initial quickness but I didn’t see the long speed and or range.  Has been productive, but didn’t get off blocks especially well.  As a pass rusher, comes hard, but if he doesn’t beat you with his initial movement, the game was over.  Lacks closing burst to the football.  Just don’t see how he could play above 285 lbs.  Good college player, but limited chance to factor.  Priority free agent player

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Scouting the 2008 Defensive End’s

April 14th, 2008 — football, NFL

This is an inside and in depth look at the 2008 class of DE’s. The list has been compiled by NFL scout Tom Marino, who has over 35 years of experience and is one of the most well respected scouts in the business. For all the draft enthusiasts out there this is the kind of hard hitting information that you are after. I will be bringing you the scouting reports for every position over the next week or so as we gear up for the 2008 NFL Draft. On this list you will find the player, his school, his height and weight and their 40 time.
91 Long Chris Virginia U DE 6030v 272v 4.81v
Quality individual and player. Finishes everything. Great playing character, tenacity and toughness. Good initial get off, sees things quickly, reacts, and shows excellent play range. Rare backside effort. Wasn’t as nifty as I expected (bend and trim the edge). Great bend and core strength. More of a self made player then a natural talent. Great leverage meeting and playing off blocks. The ultimate team guy. Top defensive player in the country.
91 Harvey Derrick Florida U DE 6045v 271v 4.89v
Smooth athletic player with excellent speed, get off quickness and impressive edge rush skills. Like his stride length, hand quicks, counter moves and close. Effectively worked down inside and get to the ball. Run down player who can drop his base and stack. Seldom on the ground and on the rare occasion that he was bounced up quickly and got back into the play. Didn’t see much I didn’t like or can’t be improved. The real deal. Slam dunk # 1
50 Gholston Vernon Ohio St DE 6030v 266v 4.59v
Great physical presence. Has blacksmith arms, broad shoulders and thick muscular torso, but even with 14 sack and rare speed, I don’t consider him a natural pass rusher (paper production). Not an edge rusher (not nifty and lacks hand moves). A power rusher with a motor that doesn’t always run on high. Disappointing in space. More of an inside type, but is never going to have the mass to project.. Rare numbers, but I wouldn’t draft with my 1st selection.
54 Groves Quentin Auburn U DE 6030v 259v 4.57v
Has had some off field issues which will need to be addressed. Former OB. Lean looking cut up athlete. Has a hot and cold playing motor. Undersized to factor as down linemen full time (not good match up) and needs space to operate, but has rare take off skills and the ability to close on the ball. Excellent playing range. Can retrace his steps and run down the ball carrier from the backside. Was run at some. Late 1st round consideration.
81 Campbell Calais Miami U DE 6076v 290v 5.01v
Has lots of skills, play strength, initial get off quickness, but has a tendency to lose his focus. Has good COD and can really close on the ball. Very good inside counter move as a pass rusher. Huge wing span will pose a major problem for QB’s within the league. Very nimble big man, but is not there yet. Top round draft potential.
94 Merling Philip Clemson U DE 6042v 276v 4.80e
More physical vs the run then I expected. Liked his intensity. Disruptive. Good range and versatility. Showed a tendency to play to high, but I loved his motor, quickness, toughness and the ability to finish. Good backside effort and playing range. Locates the ball on the inside. needs better point strength. Could have some nickel inside pass rush potential with maturity. Round # 1
49 Ellis Chris Virginia Tech DE 6042v 263v 4.76v
Is a three year regular. Is an athlete who runs particularly well, has quick hands, good feet and pleanty of range. I liked the way he was able to consistently leverage the point (flexibility) and sheding blocks when playing the run. Vs the pass, I liked his get off quicks, stride length, bend at the top and close. Uses hands well can can convert speed to power. Needs to continue to make strides with maturity off the field. Round # 2
54 Jackson Lawrence USC DE 6042v 271v 4.86v
Saw him as somewhat of an under achiever, but he has the skills to become a factor as a 4-3 pass rusher. Has good range, quickness. Has natural pass rush skills (quick hands, gets small at the top of the rush and the ability to close on the ball). Vs the run, will need to improve his overall body strength. Was run at with some success (got his pads up). Wouldn’t pull the switch too quickly with this player. Late 2nd mid 3rd consideration.
32 Avril Cliff Purdue U DE 6027v 251v 4.63v
A 3-4 outside backer prospect who overall was somewhat disappointing. Got stuck on blocks and wasn’t particularly effective in his movement away from the ball. More of a “Sam backer” prospect and nickel rusher. Did show some short area pop when meeting blocks and the ball carrier. Has some natural leverage. Looks to have strong contributing back up potential within the league. Round 3 to 4 consideration.
90 Robertson Darrell Georgia Tech DE 6037v 255v 4.75e
A very good athlete who played on his feet and covered a great deal of range. I liked his leverage and use of hands when meeting blocks. Good feet and balance (plays with bent knees). Got moved around by big people but didn’t stay blocked. As a pass rusher, really came hard on the outside (gains ground). Does not convery speed to power at this time, but with maturity should develop. Has strong 3rd to 4th round draft potential.
92 Iwebema Kenny Iowa U DE 6040v 274v 5.00v
A talented player but something appears to be missing. Way too up and down. Showed good initial quickness and used his hands well, but seldom finished anything. Can converts speed to power, but too often just hung on blocks. Would like to have seen more consistent pad level. Has ability but needs further skill refirement and consistency. Late 3rd consideration, but is more likely a 4th round playing talent.
38 Howard Marcus Georgia U DE 6004v 239v 4.51v
Undersized rocked up DE. Highly explosive & the speed to pose a real problem for a lot of tackles in nickel. Questionable instinctive & playing background, but there is no doubt what he can do on 3rd & long (nickel rusher). Physical explosive tackler. Vs the run, got covered up & was generally ineffective. Plays fast and is very tough, but can never be an every down guy. Good teams potentiial. A Robert Mathis clone.
44 Davis Bruce UCLA DE 6025v 252v 4.83v
Undersized player who was a pass rusher first and foremost. I felt he was a very good athlete who can run and close as a outside speed rusher. Disappointing effort and competes within the running game. I didn’t think his motor always ran on high when chasing backside . Proved tio be ineffective in a two point stance. A one dimentional player who should warrent mid round draft consideration (4 – 5).
98 Thompson Jeremy Wake Forest U DE 6043v 264v 4.77v
A three year starter predominately on the right side. Has the quickness you look for when engaging blocker defending the run, but I also thought he got his pads up, thus negating his power. Didn’t always finish or chase backside. Has potential as a pass rusher (good hand use, stride length and closing speed, but unless he beat people off the go, lacks the necessary body strength to defeat big people at this time. Round 5 – 6 consideration.
89 Scott Trevor Buffalo U DE 6052v 252v 4.62v
Converted TE who has been banged up, but has measurable and athletic potential. I liked his motor & playing character (great energy). Not a lot of know-how at this stage or strength, but has some natural pass rush moves coming off the edge. Needs to shed blocks more effectively and finish. Also appeared to wear down working against big people (stamina)? Has tools and could develop in time. Draft consideration round 5 – 6.
92 Harrington Chris Texas A&M DE 6043v 264v 4.86v
A little bit of a tweener. Is a good worker who played with a good deal of energy. As an outside pass rusher came off the ball (good stride length), but lacked the bend at the top of the rush (far more effective as a junior). Vs the run, was not a stout physical player. Was marginal to get off block and make plays. Has some athletic ability and quickness, but is more of a back up player at the next level. Round 5 – 6 draft potential.
98 Langford Kendall Hampton U DE 6054v 287v 5.01v
Showed initial quickness on his get off, but does not play with a lot of power and or strength. Sharted each game viewed with a lot of energy, but had a tendency to run out of gas (stamina and conditioning)? Has particularly small hands, no hips or butt. Just feel if he can’t beat you off the go, will have a difficult time. Should be given strong late round draft (6 – 7) consideration.
52 Hayes William Winston Salem St DE 6026v 272v 4.71v
Impressive small college linemen who showed explosiveness on his take off, the ability to convert speed to power and close on the football. Has a pro body and very good athletic ability. Mike backer in his first two season of play. Needs to keep his pads down more consistently, but did meet blocks and play with leverage. Has good first step quickness as a pas rusher, but will need to improve in his ability to counter. Strong late round draft or priority FA potential.
33 Taylor Hilee No Carolina U DE 6023v 244v 4.59v
Is an undersized nickel rusher with rare speed who was generally an ineffective run stopper; plays high, was inconsistent with his hands and did not get off blocks particularly well. Can range and will make some plays with his backside chase. Vs the pass, is a fast twitch guy with a great 1st step, forces separation, get to the top of his rush, leans and accelerates to the ball. Too stiff to consider at LB. One dimentional, but give you something pretty special
45 Hall Alex St Augustine DE 6051v 239v 4.72v
Has a great deal of natural gifts, but is physically underdeveloped and from a position skill perspective is at least two years behind in terms of development. As a pass rusher, has long arms, good first step quickness, the stride length to get to the top of the rush and the closing speed to pressure the QB. Currrently lacks the body strength, plan of attack and practical experience to factor. Raiders type pick.
83 Jones Jason Eastern Michigan U DE 6052v 273v 4.80v
Is a former tight end who was moved to a defensive tackle position at the midpoint of the 04 season. Looks like a basketball player. Needs to play outside. Is a very raw player who had a tendency to get his pads up off the go. Limited use of hands to shed (gets stuck on blocks). Has skills and was not out of place at the Senior Bowl workouts, but is no better then a developmental player at this time. Late selection but more likely a PFA.
1 Johnson Curtis Clark-Atlanta DE 6025v 242v 4.78v
Quick side end with good speed and playing range. Needs a great deal of work with his technique (use of hands). Effective edge rusher who can trim the edge effectively. I really liked his competes and the way finished. Perfect fit as an OLB in a 3-4 scheme. Needs refinement, but has tools and intensity to play. aLooks like a contributing back up within the league who should be able to add bulk and strength to his frame. Round 6 -7 consideration.
51 Baldwin Ervin Michigan St DE 6012v 270v
Undersized (length) outside rusher, who played very hard. I thought he showed good leverage when meeting blocks, although will need to get off them more effeciently. Come hard as an outside rusher, but lacks hand use, counter skills, and finishing skills. A special situation rusher who has shown enough to merit late round consideration (6th to 7th).
9 Geathers Jeremy UNLV DE 6021v 259v 4.82v
Undersized Juco transfer (son of long time NFL tackle James). Was far better player then I originally expected. Has excellent hip strength and lower body power.Good leverage and hands defending the run. Didn’t make a lot of plays on wide plays, but was strong and effective. As a pass rusher, showed good lean and dip at the top of rush (has an inside counter), but just modest results (only 11 sacks in 2 years). A work in progress, but has some tools. Round 7
92 Dingle Johnny West Virginia U DE 6013v 265v 4.98v
Originally signed with Florida but was a non-qualifier and transferred. Is a undersized player with athletic ability who flashed skills as an edge rusher. Comes hard. Gets upfield, trims the edge, and showed a closing burst. Was just inconsistent in this area, and was in my opinion a non entity defending the run. Motor doesn’t always run on high. Just when you are about to give up on him will make a “wow” play to get you excited. 7th or priority free agent.
82 Craig Angelo Cincinnati U DE 6040v 252v 5.09v
First year regular. Former WR, TE and LB before finding a home at DE. Is a good athlete, with foot speed and a burst. Can trim the edge and has the physical make up (long arms) to alter the throwing lanes (flashed impressive hand use). Up and down playing intensity. Have to question both his mental and physical toughness. Late consideration with the hope of developing at the LB position.
93 Ortiz Chase TCU DE 6020v 249v 4.93v
Outside backer in a 3-4 look. Plays with a good motor and had some adequate backside chase and outside pass rush potential. A straight line guy who doesn’t have the hips and COD to project to linebacker. Too small to line up at as a 4-3 end. Gets muscled on the inside by big people. Looks like a steady back up prospect with second day (5th to 7th) round draft potential.
1 Holmes Louis Arizona U DE 6035v 263v 4.89v
Highest rated Has size and a great deal of natural talent, but has made some highly questionable off the field decisions which can’t be overlooked. Said to be very immature and inconsistent as a player. Not a high motor guy but when he wants to has more then enough playing skills to impact a game. A club could well hit big with this player, but I really don’t know he can be counted on over the long haul. Has 7th round or free agent potential.
93 Smith Dorian Oregon St DE 6014v 264v 5.08v
An under rated player who makes plays on the strength of a motor that always runs on high. Does not have a natural feel for the position, nor does he have special tools, but made plays due to his sustained effort Is never going to have the size and strength for full time participation. Would consider in a late round ate round 5-7 draft consideration.
93 Hout Kurt Ferris St DE 6010v 266v 4.91v
A tough undersized small college player who played extremely hard. Flies around and makes plays. Not particularly strong, but was physical and has an edge to him. Has had some off the field issues but has matured over the past two years (raised himself). Didn’t think he located the ball on the inside as well as he should have (lack of height likely contributed to his lack of success). Outside chance to factor at the professional level
55 Artis Wallace Furman U DE 6033v 266v 5.00e
97 Fountain Marque Oklahoma St DE
47 Franklin Vegas Miami U DE 6022v 239v 4.91v
97 Blake Tommy TCU DE 6025v 272v 4.83v
92 Gilberry Wallace Alabama U DE 6022v 268v 4.99v
90 Studebaker Andrew Wheaton College DE 6030v 249v 4.54v
95 Jackson Robert Kansas St DE 6032v 256v 4.91v
58 Mullenix Matt Washington St DE 6054e 255e 4.80e
49 Pittman Kirston LSU DE 6023v 254v 4.74v
97 Schlekeway Nick Boise St DE 6033v 268v 4.93v
90 Udofla Udeme Stanford U DE 6035v 244v 5.03v
49 Van Orsow Jeff Oregon St DE
89 Reynolds Antonio Tennessee U DE 6035v 266v 4.92v
7 Gunheim Greyson Washington U DE 6050e 260e 4.90e
93 Burnett Martail Utah U DE 6026v 257v 4.79v
93 Mitchell Xavier Tennessee U DE 6026v 258v 4.88v
58 Clermond Joe Pittsburgh U DE 6022v 253v 4.97v
91 Henderson Robert Southern Mississippi DE 6027v 281v 4.87v
57 Gray Derrick Texas Southern DE 6041v 269v 5.00e
45 Bright Eugene Purdue U DE
54 Dotson Alonzo Oklahoma U DE 6030e 250e
99 Mattison Bryan Iowa U DE 6027v 290v 5.09v
96 Flynn Dallas Northwest Missouri St DE 6045v 260v
2 Johnson Roderick Oklahoma St DE 6024e 255e 4.95e
42 Oliver Adamm Georgia Tech DE 6036v 271v 4.80e
94 Osborn Nick San Diego St DE 6033v 251v 4.80e
98 Boston Alex Florida St DE 6023v 261v 4.76v
41 Brown Martel No Carolina St DE 6010e 255e 4.90e
88 Cox Brandon Louisville U DE
99 Hardie Rudolph Howard U DE 6017v 257v 4.90e
57 Larkin Nick Boston College DE 6036v 244v
58 Mester Craig Miami (Ohio) U DE 6040e 245e
59 Nading Jesse Colorado St DE 6047v 261v
12 Noa Karl Hawaii U DE 6035v 239v
93 Owens Jacob Fairmont St DE 6047v 266v 4.91v
94 Saint-Dic Jonal Michigan St DE 6002v 253v 4.90e
11 Amos John Calif-Davis DE 6031v 254v
90 Baker Maurice CW Post DE 6034e 260e
92 Bakhtiari Eric U of San Diego DE
56 Cummings Kenwin Wingate U DE 6017v 258v 5.08v
31 Griffin Kerby California (PA) DE 6005v 266v 5.14v
90 Chapman Jeremiah No Texas U DE
40 Boynton Blair Northern Arizona U DE
41 McKillop Chris Pittsburgh U DE 6024v 252v
94 Joseph Kirby McNeese St DE 6014e 270e 4.94v

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