Scouting the 2008 WR’s

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

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 Centers

April 24th, 2008 — NFL, NFL Draft, football

No offensive line can be effective without a great center, and here the best ones that are going to be eligible for the draft on Saturday.

1 78 Lichtensteiger Kory Bowling Green OC 6022v 298v 5.28v G
Four year regular. Very good player although not impressive to look at physically (short arms). Good balance and quick feet. Very tough and nasty. Very smart and aware (makes all front calls). Quick to the second level. Shows good knee bend and leverage on his blocks. Struggled with big people on pass protection, but never stopped working. A blue coller player, who plays the game with passion and heart. Has strong second day draft consideration.
2 76 Pollak Mike Arizona St OC 6034v 301v 4.99v I
A good serviceable football player, but I didn’t think he was particularly strong or effective at the point of attack. but going to have some real problem with big people inside. Is smart, experienced took good angles and plays on his feet. On pass pro, looked around well, was a good knee bender and overall athletic skills. Not a nasty individual and is never going to be a big finisher, but has solid play skills and should become a steady swingman inside. Round 4 – 5
3 74 Justice Steve Wake Forest U OC 6033v 290v 5.29v G
Has a pre existent condition which required his parents had to sign a waiver in order to play at Wake each season (no apparent effect in his play). Has athletic ability, experience and intelligence. Good athlete with toughness. Can reach effectively playside. Had problems with big people on his nose. Lacks core strength and rear power. Solid football player who could develop into a steady professional.
4 78 Sullivan John Notre Dame OC 6034v 301v 5.39v F
Disappointed with his play in 2007. Is an experienced hand with intelligence, but was surprisingly not a natural knee bender (extensive wrestling background) and didn’t get consistent fits inline. On pass pro didn’t appear able to drop his base and make a stand vs a power rush. Had some very untimely gun snap errors in 07. Round 5 to 7 draft consideration.
5 70 Wallace Cody Texas A&M OC 6042v 296v 5.31v F
Over achiever. Not a supple athlete, but is tough, experienced and durable. Had problems with people on his nose. Not strong at the point of attack. Just adequate contact balance. Tough, nasty individual. Journeyman player who has the potential to fill in at the OG spot. Problems with the bull rush. If he goes to a club that employs a zone blocking scheme (slide protection) could play a long time. Mid to late second day draft consideration (5 – 6).
6 71 Richard Jameson Buffalo U OC 6046v 297v 5.12v F
A limited athlete, but was tough, strong, and very physical. Gets after people and showed better then expected upper body leverage. Good angles to 2nd level, but was inconsistent to sustain. Will also overplay or miss the target. On pass protection, showed adequate anchor when working against the bull rush. Is going to need some work, but was very pleased with his work throughout the season. Would give 6th to 7th round draft consideration.
7 69 Spanos Matt USC OC 6053v 322v 5.39v F
Stepped into a starting role with an injury this past year and played far better then expected. Is both big and strong, but was not an explosive player. . Walls off effectively and worked well in tandem. Improved with each passing game. Not an especially good athlete but will fight you to the end. Played much of the season with a triceps injury which need to be repaired. Has an outside chance of being drafted, but is more likely a priority free agent within the league.
8 67 Miller Drew Florida U OC 6046v 302v 5.30e F
Doesn’t play big. Lacks functional playing strength and finishing skills. Is smart and plays with savvy, but will have a particularly tough time blocking big people at the next level. On pass protection,I didn’t think he had near enough physical ability to handle a professional defender. Is smart, experienced and has lined up at both OG and the OC position, but lacks the necessary skills to play. Marginal free agent.
9 72 Bujnoch Glen Cincinnati U OC 6046v 285v 5.24v G
Dad (Glen) played with the Bengal’s. Undersized player with limited play strength. Great kid with size potential, experience and good intangibles. I thought he played too rigid. Playing a tackle position, but did work at the center position in the spring and appears physically far better suited to project inside in the professional ranks. Will have get stronger and to do a far better job of keeping his pads down to play the OC position, but has a chance.

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Scouting the 2008 Defensive End’s

April 14th, 2008 — NFL, football

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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