Gus Ornstein's School of Sports » football

Summer Football Camps

Gus — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 21:00:41 +0000

By Gus Ornstein

I went to a tiny high school in New York City known more for its academics than its athletics, yet I received over 50 scholarship offers to play division one football and ended up at Notre Dame before transferring to Michigan State. People ask me all the time how I got discovered and my answer is simple- I went to summer football camps. The summer after my junior year, I attended a couple of different football camps, I went to the University of Wesleyan, Princeton University and The University of Michigan. I chose Wesleyan and Princeton because I was not sure how good I was, yet I knew I was doing well in school and thought these could be great schools for me. As far as going to Michigan’s camp, I figured that I had nothing to lose and should take a shot and see what the rest of the competition was like. Michigan’s football camp ended up being the thing that put me on the map as far as recruiting goes. They had over 1500 kids at the camp and it seemed like half of them were QB’s. I ended up having a great camp and one afternoon they ran a mini combine by taking the top players at each position and putting them through some drills. I was fortunate enough to be chosen to participate in this and had the opportunity to show my skills not only to the University of Michigan Staff but to all of the other coaches from different university’s around the country. The key to going to football camp at a big school is the amount of coaches they hire to work the camp and that these coaches come from different colleges and universities from around the country and from all different levels of competition. Even if you are not destined to be a division one player, you can still be discovered by one of these other schools.

Lloyd Carr- University of Michigan

As the camp came to an end, I was approached by then offensive coordinator Cam Cameron who told me that Michigan head coach, Gary Moeller wanted to see me in his office. I was so thrilled and excited that the head coach of The University of Michigan actually wanted to speak with me before leaving the camp. I went straight to his office and sat there as he told me they were extremely interested in me as a prospect and would be following me through my senior season and would be in touch. I feel very strongly that had I not attended that camp, I would have never been recruited as heavily as I was.

Princeton Football

Will Proctor who played quarterback at the University of Clemson had a very similar situation coming out of a small school in Florida and I spoke to him about that experience.

Will Proctor- University of Clemson QB

Will Proctor Interview

Understanding the Playbook

Gus — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:11:48 +0000

By Gus Ornstein

In the NFL there are 32 teams and that means there are 32 different offenses. As you move from team to team through a career, as I did, you start to realize that a lot of teams are running the same plays but calling them by different names. It is very much like a foreign language in the sense that the English word for a four legged house pet that barks is “dog” but if we were in France they would call it a “chien”. These words may sound completely different but they mean the exact same thing and that is how it is in the NFL with team playbooks.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with TE Daniel Wilcox who was a teammate of mine with the NY Jets about this exact subject. Daniel is now with the Baltimore Ravens and since they have hired new head coach John Harbough, he is in the process of learning another new playbook. In this interview, Daniel discusses how he goes about understanding yet another “foreign” language!!

Click to Hear the Entire Interview

Mike Martz Offensive Guru

Gus — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:59:23 +0000

By Gus Ornstein

We recently had the opportunity to visit with San Francisco TE Vernon Davis. One of the topics we discussed with Vernon is the addition of new offensive coordinator Mike Martz and the impact that would have on his season. Mike Martz has been known as an offensive guru and as a mad scientist, but whatever you want to call him the bottom line is the guy flat out knows offensive football; give him a weapon with the size, speed, strength and athletic ability of a Vernon Davis and there is no telling what the 49ers offense will look like in 2008! Vernon is excited to have Martz at the controls because that means Davis will be used in a million different roles which will result in more production for the third year TE out of Maryland. Martz’s system is very complex and intricate and can be difficult to grasp, but Vernon assured us that it is actually easy to learn and that he already feels very comfortable with his new offensive coordinator.

I was shocked that Vernon said the offense is actually easy, because I have seen that system first hand. I had the opportunity to play for Mike Martz in 1999 when he was the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Rams and I was a rookie quarterback. I came to St. Louis as an undrafted free agent and joined other quarterbacks Joe Germaine, a 4^th round draft choice out of Ohio State, and veterans Trent Green and the unknown Kurt Warner (which of course would soon change!) From day one of mini camp I was completely lost with Martz because in our offensive meetings he would start to draw up a play on the board to explain and then would erase it before I even had the chance to get the cap off my pen. The challenge for Joe and me was that we were rookies in a room with two veteran QB’s who had a strong grasp of the system and Martz did not feel the need to go into great detail for us first year guys. Trent Green had played in this type of system for basically his entire career first in San Diego and then in Washington with the Redskins, and Kurt had already been with Martz for the entire off season, so he had a huge jump on us. Not only did Martz refuse to explain the offense to Joe and me but I think he got some sort of pleasure out of torturing us rookies with the fact that we were completely lost. Joe and I decided to approach John Ramsdell our QB coach to see if he would meet with us first thing in the morning before the Mike Martz meetings so that we could go over the system with him. Fortunately for us, Ramsdell agreed to meet us at 6AM each morning and we finally began to gain an understanding into the complex mind of the great Mike Martz.

For those out there that have never had the pleasure of playing for Mike Martz I want to include some actual play calls from the 1999 Super Bowl Champion St. Louis Rams. Now take a look at these plays and then try saying them in a huddle with 10 other guys looking at you and counting on you to lead them. When Martz would give us the play in practice before we stepped into the huddle he would say it so fast that often I had to ask him to repeat it. Instead of repeating it he would tell me that I had no clue what I was doing and would insert another QB!!

MIKE MARTZ PLAY CALLS:

TWINS RIGHT MOTION SCAT RIGHT 525 F POST SWING

FLANK RIGHT MOTION SCAT RIGHT 095 F POST SWING

QUEEN RIGHT FAKE PRESS RIGHT NAKED LEFT 924 F FLAT

FLANK RIGHT SCAT RIGHT 370 F SHOOT/ PUMP/ SWING

FLEX RIGHT BRONCO LEFT 686 PUMP BACKS CROSS

JACK RIGHT SLOT JAM FAKE TOSS LEFT NAKED RIGHT 124

I know that Vernon is working hard to get all this down and we wish him the best of luck in 2008!

Click here the to hear the entire interview with Vernon Davis:

NFL Draft Revise

Gus — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 20:48:46 +0000

All of you out there that believe the football season starts in April with the NFL draft need to take a look at the following article. This is an article that will appeal to the type of fan that can’t start his day without a word from Mel Kiper and Todd McShay. Tom Marino, a former NFL scout, has decided that the draft needs a makeover and in the following article explains his point of view.

As we all know, the current draft system in football — and for that matter, all of the other major sports leagues — reward failure both on and off the field. When a club does not perform on the field, they are rewarded by giving them a better draft position. If your GM or scouting department makes a critical draft mistake, don’t worry gang, we’ll just give you another early pick next year. Unable to re-sign a veteran player? How about some compensatory picks for all of your troubles? My answer; do your job and do it right the first time!!!

For the entire article visit:

SportsGist.com

Scouting the Offensive Tackles of 2008

Gus — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:07:32 +0000

This is probably the most glamorous position on the offensive line, especially when we are talking about the left tackle. Of course Jake Long is at the top of this category and that is why he already has a deal in place with the Miami Dolphins to be the first pick on Saturday and he will be receiving $30 million in guaranteed money!!

Here are the rest of the tackles for this year:

1	77	Long	Jake	Michigan U	OT	6070v	313v	5.25v	I
	Massive, smart and nasty. Comes off the ball, hit on the rise. took good angles, fit on blocks, sustained well and finished consistently. Doesn’t have LOT feet, but is a force who should play a very long time on the right side. I particularly liked his game in and game out consistency. Once he got his hands on people was very difficult to shed. Plays on his feet and was very aware. How quickly do you draft a right offensive tackle? Draft consideration Round 1
2	74	Williams	Chris	Vanderbilt U	OT	6061v	315v	5.15v	I
	An athletic big man with quickness, body control, flexibility and balance. Smart player who comes off the ball, hits up and turns defender. Good power and finishing skills. Outstanding playing range and ability to adjust on the move at the second level. Not a great finisher but dominated none the less. Outstanding balance points, knee, and ankle bend.. Can control with punch. Outstanding ability to ride defender past the pocket. Round # 1 sure thing.
3	76	Otah	Jeff	Pittsburgh U	OT	6060v	322v	5.57v	I
	Not a natural knee bender, but was a massive person, who used his hands well, sustained blocks, played on his feet and finished people inline. I liked the way he rolled into his sets and the way he moved his feet for a big man. On pass pro, I thought his sets were efficient and consistent. Good hand placement. Can come off the ball and maul people inline. Still developing but has real solid playing skills. Top round draft consideration
4	79	Clady	Ryan	Boise St	OT	6061v	309v	5.24v	I
	Has outstanding feet, balance, and body control. Came off the ball with good pad level, hit on the rise with good hand placement. On pass protection, I felt his sets were efficient. Good depth on his kick step and slide. Did overplay and open outside shoulder some, but I liked his balance points and his ability to replaces hands. Has left tackle playing potential. Top round draft consideration.
5	79	Baker	Sam	USC	OT	6045v	309v	5.52v	I
	Is smart, experienced and was a steady performer. Was impressed with some of the things he did on pass pro (hand placement). Has good feet, but was more of a finesse guy then a power player. Big man with short arms. Was not totally out of his element on the left side, but he had a tendency to open his outside shoulder up too quickly giving a defender an easy inside counter option. Played much of 07 with a hamstring injury. Round 1 - 2
6	77	Nicks	Carl	Nebraska U	OT	6047v	341v	5.25v	E
	Big powerful athlete with feet and range (plays angry). Physical player who hits on the rise and finishes inline (best run blocker I’ve seen in 07). Excellent punching power. Showed the skills to work to the 2nd level and reach the playside backer. Said to have questionable work habit, is 25 years of age, and does not process things quickly. Needs more overall consistency, but has all of the tools one looks for at either tackle position. Early 2nd round potential.
7	77	Cherilus	Gosder	Boston College	OT	6063v	314v	5.14v	I
	Minor off field incident needs to be addressed. Big athletic guy with good feet, balance and body quickness. Worked almost exclusively from a 2 point stance. Will come off the ball and strike, but overall wasn’t a big finisher. Was disappointed in his playing awareness (stunts, blitz pick ups and awareness at the second level). Has some nasty in him and looks like superman, but something (playing awareness) appears to be missing. Round # 2 consideration.
8	78	Collins	Anthony	Kansas U	OT	6050v	317v	5.49v	E
	Lots of talent (LOT athletic) but is immature and an underachiever. Huge person with a long wing span, yet wasn’t explosive. Can make it look easy (almost appeared disinterested), but also was sloppy with is technique (hand use, crosses his feet). Can dominate at the LOS, has range and sustain blocks. Has a very high ceiling, but well could be a nightmare for the club that selects him. Wouldn’t consider at 1, but at the mid point of 2 might look like a prom queen.
9	54	Keith	Brandon	Northern Iowa U	OT	6052v	345v	5.01v	E
	Outstanding physical skills and a pro body (long arms and thick all over), but is just not very tough nor was he physical in his play. Very talented athlete with every conceivable physical gift, but should have been far more dominent in his overall play. Loved his feet, can pull, lead, and adjust on the move, but he just wasn’t a consistent finisher. Needs to drop some body weight and improve stamina. Round 4 – 5 consideration
10	79	Hills	Tony	Texas U	OT	6051v	309v	5.20e
	Top prep tight end prospects in the country. Has overcome a great deal (physically) over the last 5 years (drop foot) and broke his ankle vs Texas Tech this past season. Has LOT feet, but also showed a tendency to overset and had a difficult time redirecting in space. A team is going to have to be patient with this player, but he has athletic ability long arms and the ability to bend his knees. Could well in time be a high rewards second day surprise. Round 5 – 7
11	78	Giacomini	Breno	Louisville U	OT	6071v	304vv	5.10v	J
	Great looking physically. Outstanding prep basketball player. First year regular. Former tight end in their jumbo package. Runs extremely well, is very athletic, has good feet, physical and one nasty SOB on the ball field. Does need a lot of work with position technique, hand placement and most importantly his core strength. Didn’t show good bend on his pass sets, thus limiting his anchor. Has a lot of tools. Round 4 to 5 consideration
12	79	Richardson	Barry	Clemson U	OT	6065v	320v	5.49v	E
	Athletic big man who flashed excellent body control. (nimble) Light on his feet with good blocing range (can get out to the second level. . On pass protection, has the athletic ability to counter and mirror defensive movement. Has been a regular since his freshman season, but I felt his mechanics were not particularly advanced. Just doesn’t play heavy.and to my way of thinking and not a natural knee bender. Round 4 – 5 , based on his natural gifts
13	77	Dunlap	King	Auburn U	OT	6084v	311v	5.27v	I
	Has been just an verage worker. Huge frame with long limbs, but was underdeveloped. Showed little in the way of tenacity or toughness. Marginal knee bender and power in his hands (might be too tall). I’m bothered by the fact that he still needs to be pushed on and off field. Would also question his willingness to play through things. Wouldn’t trust on the left ot a left tackle. 5th to 6th round consideration based primarily on his rare size.
14	79	Bell	Demetrius	Northwestern St (LA)	OT	6053v	300v	5.21v	F
	Recruited to play college basketball. Has only played 3 seasons of football. Former DE who was moved to LOT . 2007 Sub – division All American. Very good athlete, but lack both strength and power in his play. I was impressed with his pass sets, feet, body quickness, and overall playing range, but I wonder if he is strong enough to get push at the next level. Good hand placement. At least two year’s away from being contributing to winning
15	54	Clark	Corey	Texas A&M	OT	6053v	315v	5.33v	F
	Might want to consider projecting this player down inside. Didn’t like his consistently high pad level when engaging defenders inline, but played on his feet and stayed with his blocks for the most part. Limited striking power. This guy wasn’t pretty, but found a way to fet it done in the end. Would give late round draft consideration within the league (6th to 7th).
16	76	Brown	Duane	Virginia Tech	OT	6041v	314v	4.94v	I
	A former tight end who started two seasons on the right side before moving to the left side as a senior. Never saw him finish inline (didn’t show playing strength or much in the way of toughness). Really struggled with big people. I did like his feet and body balance on pass protection, but was bull rushed and had problems with his anchor. Not as good as he should be, but has too much athleetic potnetial to throw in the scrap heap. Round 6- 7.
17	77	Polumbus	Tyler	Colorado U	OT	6074v	312v	5.23v	F
	A big man with short arms. Is a try hard guy, but was limited athletically. Has a particularly high center of gravity. Gets shoulders out over his pads consistently when blocking inline (top heavy). Not a big finisher (legs trail). On the ground too frequently. Marginal body quickness. Is going to have problems blocking on the edge or handling the inside counter.
18	54	Dunbar	Franklin	Middle Tennessee	OT	6046v	327v	5.63v	F
	A massive, very strong (lower half) prospect who has been a starter at the LOT position for 3 seasons. The only true hardship case in this year’s draft. Is not a nifty, quick footed, dancing bear on the outside and doesn’t have any LOT potential at the next level. Lacks agility, body quickness, balance, bend and footwork. At the outset is going to have a very difficult time when the bullet start to fly (game pace). A solid person but strictly a developmental prospect.
19	72	Fladell	Mike	Rutgers U	OT	6061v	328v	5.40e
	Big wide body, who was generally non explosive on contact. Lack balance and body control particularly in space. Hits and goes to the ground. Needs to develop a great deal of body strength, particularly in his legs. Might well have been too tall to play inside at guard (LOG) position. Could develop, but the club that invests in him will have to dedicate a great deal of time to this project. Priority free agent.
20	75	Byrne	Mike	Delaware U	OT	6050v	296v	5.45e
	An Experienced competitive player. Has a good frame and size and strength potential. Is an agile big man. Agile big man with adequate playing and blocking range. Showed little in the way of power or explosion inline to get movement and sustain blocks. Falls off too many blocks (doesn’t bring feet) nor does he play heavy. Has some upside, but at this stage is at best a priority free agent.
21	75	Garner	Nate	Arkansas U	OT	6040e	325e	5.60e
	Is a big (bad body) guy who came on as a senior (late bloomer). Not a fast twitch athlete, but cam eoff the ball, stayed on his feet and sustained his blocks far more effectively then I had expected. On pass protection, short set effectively and although doesn’t have a whole lot of range showed some potential in this area. More of a mass then explosive hit up through guy. Much improved hand use. Priority free agent prospect.

Scouting the 2008 Offensive Guards

Gus — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:53:56 +0000

Today we are focusing on the big guys that take up all the space in the middle of the field. Being an old QB myself I want to take care of these guys and make sure that they are getting the recognition they deserve. Here is a look at the guards that are coming out of college this year.

1	71	Albert	Branden	Virginia U	OG	6055v	309v	5.20v	I
	Junior eligible player with excellent size, range and athletic ability. Pass sets were quick and efficient. Good stunt awareness, feet and range. Good knee bender. As a run blocker, engages quickly with good hand placement and sustain. Very impressive on his pull and lead. Can improve his overall body strength, but I saw little else that I didn’t like with this player’s game. Round # 1
2	66	Rachal	Chilo	USC	OG	6050v	315v	5.26v	I
	Missed some time due to injury in 07. Very physical and strong. Excellent punch and ability to move his feet. Liked his pull and lead skills. Good power in his hands. Excellent finisher. Should become a productive professional very quickly. Hits up and works for position after contact. Good body balance. Adequate to reach playside. Might be a tear away from factoring, but has a good deal of talent. Round # 2
3	75	Cousins	O’Niel	Texas-El Paso	OG	6036v	308v	5.04v	I
	Impressive Senior Bowl practice effort. Has good inline power and the ability to finish people. Good hand placement and ability to steer and stick on blocks. Reaches effectively and runs his feet on contact. Powerful guy who plays on his feet. On pass pro, his mass and ability to drop his base, enables him to handle the bull rush. Inconsistent with his kick/slide (depth and width). A high ceiling player with natural tools. Round 2 draft potnetial
4	79	Greco	John	Toledo U	OG	6046v	305v	5.26v	F
	An impressive athlete with good feet and strength, size and athletic ability. Looked natural on the left size, but due to his limited arm length would project this player down inside. Liked his work on pass protection (sets, kick step and striking power). A knee bender with striking power and savvy. Liked his balance points and recovery skills. Under the radar player who has a chance to play a very long time. Smart and aware. Round 2 – 3.
5	75	McGlynn	Mike	Pittsburgh U	OG	6042v	311v	5.41v	F
	College ROT. Is a big sucker (small hands), who impressed me with his work at OG during Senior Bowl workouts. Strong and efficient in a limited area. Not as nifty or quick as one would want, but was physical, and was an adequate to good finisher. Struggled with the quick edge rusher on the outside (gets his feet crossed some). Some block point balance problem. Solid journeyman prospect. Has solid 3rd to 4th round potential.
6	60	Radovich	Drew	USC	OG	6044v	301v	5.38v	F
	Versatile player with surprising athletic skills & versatility. Can swing between the tackle and guard positions. Need to improve his overall upper body strength but I like his toughness. More then adequate bend and playing savvy. Comes off the ball & hit up with more then adequate punch. Good hand placement and fits. Efficient short set and extend. See him as a valuable back up at the pro level. Round 3 – 4 draft potential.
7	67	Schuening	Roy	Oregon St	OG	6035v	306v	5.32v	F
	Is a good technician who was both smart and experienced.. Not as explosive as a run blocker as I expected. Good to short set and mirror. Limited playing range. Some inconsistency in 07. Needs to take better angles and improve efficiency at the second level. Marginal to reach playside. Is never going to be a great one, but has the ability to become a regular in time within the league. Draft round 3 – 4
8	61	Felton	Robert	Arkansas U	OG	6035v	313v	5.54v	F
	A big thick, bad body guy with good upper body strength and quickness, but had some contact balance problems (on the ground too frequently) Feet had a tendency to stall on contact. Got to second level & was able to hit up turn and wall defender. On pass protection, I liked his setting quicks, feet and movement, although I didn’t he get consistent lockout. Will need to keep his weight under control, but is a smart and versatile player. Round 4 draft consideration
9	74	Barton	Kirk	Ohio St	OG	6043v	310v	5.30e	F
	Much better suited physically and from an athletic standpoint to play down on the inside. Tough kid with some playing experience. Doesn’t kick butt, but also doesn’t get his butt kicked. Has a tendency to engage with his hands from the outside the defenders frame and doesn’t alway bring his feet with him. Not real effective adjusting to movement off the LOS. On pass pro, anchored well on his short sets. Problems with speed out on the edge. Rd 4 – 5.
10	77	Rinehart	Chad	Northern Iowa U	OG	6051v	320v	5.34v	F
	Not impressive from a physical standpoint but was technically sound, very tough and understands the game. Would project down inside to a guard position. Has a good understanding of angles and he wasn’t on the ground a great deal. Good to scoop, but wasn’t real effecient at the second level. Is a journeyman player who gives you some versatility and experience. Not a supple easy moving athlete. Solid mid to late second day selection (Rd 5-7).
11	73	Bernadeau	Mackenzy	Bentley College	OG	6041v	304v	5.27v	F
	An athletic, explosive and tough individua,, who can run and adjust in space. Showed good ball smarts, adjusted well on the move and had some nasty in him. Pass sets, feet and use of hands were impressive given his limited background. Missed last 3 games of the 07 season with an MCL injury. Dominates the competition. Similar to Jahri Evans (Saints) in playing style although might not be his equal as an athlete. Has 4th to 5th round draft potential.
12	55	Thomas	Donald	Connecticut U	OG	6033v	303v	5.06v	I
	The big question is whether he going to be big enough? Has good upper body strength, but his feet often stalled on contact inline. Tried to muscle people rather then hitting up and working around defender. Tough nasty individual who has an edge about him. On pass pro, was effectively able to anchor once he locked on with his hands. Base has a tendency to get too wide I didn’t like the way his toes turned out. Mid to late round draft potential (4 -6).
13	63	Crummey	Andrew	Maryland U	OG	6045v	301v	5.36v	F
	Is big, smart & experienced player with knowhow. Comes out of a balanced stance, was adequate on his get off but was not a consistent finisher.. Just not a power player. Feet tended to stall on contact . On pass pro, I didn’t think his feet were quick, played, rigid & didn’t get consistent lock out. Overall, I didn’t see special skills, but I believe he has shown enough good things to make a club in a back up role. Round 6 to 7 consideration.
14	74	Murphy	Shawn	Utah St	OG	6037v	320v	5.21v	F
	Tough, strong, highly physical and versatile (LOT in 06 – LOG in 07). Son of former Braves baseball great Dale Murphy. J.C. transfer, who is very much a work in progress. Former DE. Comes off the ball showing good balance points. Works to sustain, but was not particularly explosive on contact. Can pull, lead and adjust on the move. On pass pro, is going to needs work on his hand use and set more efficiently. Draft consideration 5th – 7th.
15	59	Scott	Walter	Kentucky U	OG	6032v	298v	4.91v	J
	Former TE and defensive linemen. First year regular. Good athlete, but did not play particularly strong (can’t move big people inline). Did show some shock on the snap but not a big finisher. I do like his feet, balance and bend, but is just not ready at this time. Late developmental prospect who could pay big dividends. Good smarts and playing intangibles. Draft consideration round # 6 to 7.
16	70	Clark	Devin	New Mexico U	OG	6035v	313v	5.29v	F
	A mauler who showed the ability to bend his knees. Better suited to play down inside. Can make a club based on ability, but is going to have to become more accountable off the field (need to check some off his off the field incidents). Good pass pro skills (liked his sets and range). A mauler who played with some tenacity. Playing ROT, but is better suited to move down inside (OG). Has a chance to become a good one. Late round consideration.
17	54	Young	Eric	Tennessee U	OG	6035v	310v	5.25e	I
	First season at the LOT position. Appeared top heavy. Doesn’t play with a lot of power. Comes off the ball well, but doesn’t climb or finish consistently. At the second level or on the backside, was quick to do little. Feet and pass sets were solid, but again doesn’t get lockout and was not strong on his feet. Just does not bend well and lacks power. A waist bender although he covers ground and showed. Finesse rather then he is a power player. Round 6th to 7th.
18	71	Zuttah	Jeremy	Rutgers U	OG	6033v	303v	5.07v	I
	Good size and lots room to grow with his frame. Outstanding test athlete, but lacked functional playing strength. Played consistently straight legged and was stiff in his hips. A non knee bender in the classic sense. Playing a ROT, but is better suited to play inside. On pass pro, his lack of balance points will always limit this player (gets driven back). Adequate college player with tools, but has a very long way to go. Needs position refinement. Draft # 7
19	53	Gibson	Mike	California U	OG	6034v	305v	5.29v	F
	Is an athletic big man who appeared more natural on the right side then his current LOT position. Is a versatile player, who although is better suited inside, could lineup in a pinch at the tackle spot. Didn’t see him as having a lot of functional playing strength at this time (legs stall on contact), but appeared to have more then adequate feet and contact balance. Would give late round draft consideration, but is more likely a priority free agent prospect.
20	68	McDuffie	Chris	Clemson U	OG	6041v	330v	5.35e	F
	Proto type look physically although lacks functional playing strength (gets his pads up consistently). Didn’t consistently come off the ball and lacks rear power to get movement inline. Plays hard but was barely an adequate athlete. All of his success and effectiveness was in a short area. Hate to give up on a big man, but this isn’t a quick fix type player. Late consideration, but is more likely a priority free agent player
21	77	Sosa	Pedro	Rutgers U	OG	6035v	300v	5.35e	F
	LOT starter, but is far better suited to play down inside (Doesn’t play heavy and lacks the foot quickness to play out on an island). Inline flashed take off quicks, but feet generally stopped on contact. Catch and steer guy who lacked short area explosiveness. On pass pro, is a classic waist bender who will have consistent problems with balance. Not a bad athlete, but has a lot of things that need to be fixed. 7th round or PFA.
22	75	Schwartz	Geoffrey	Oregon U	OG	6061v	332v	5.39v	F
	An absolute giant!. Has decent footwork and effectiveness in a limited area. Not particularly tough and had real problems with speed people on the edge. If he can front up a defender and get his hands on them has a chance to roster. Missed much of 07 due to injury. Has long snap skills which further enhance his playing chances. Late consideration, but is more likely a free agent player within the league.

Scouting the 2008 Safeties

Gus — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 20:33:59 +0000

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

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

Scouting the 2008 CB’s

Gus — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 20:29:32 +0000

Here is Tom Marino’s take on the 2008 Cornerback’s that are entering the NFL Draft on Saturday.

1	4	Jenkins	Mike	South Florida U	DC	5102v	197v	4.43v
	A shutdown corner with adequate size and outstanding quickness. Has race horse speed, a very smooth compact, explosive hips and the ability to stick his foot in the ground and close to the ball. No wasted movement or extra steps. Underneith close was rare. Impressive play instincts and anticipation. Has the speed to easily stay on top of receivers on deep routes. Inconsistent hands and was just an adequate tackler. Special player. Top round selection
2	34	McKelvin	Leodis	Troy U	DC	5102v	190v	4.39v
	very talented, highly athletic DC with exceent speed and man off cover skills. Physical press corner (aggressive & quick with his hands). Compact pedal with quick feet (no wasted movement or steps). Was physical & effective in run support. Competes extremely hard. Return skills only add to his pedigree. Was slightly disappointed in his ball skills, but this player has the skills to start quickly at the pro level. Round # 1
3	45	Rodgers-Cromartie	Dominique	Tennessee State U	DC	6014v	184v	4.36v
	First impressed me with his Penn relays effort in 2007. Is a great looking athlete with speed to burn. Didn’t think early on he was very physical or tough, but improved greatly over the season. Gets people on the ground, but wasn’t a drive through, wrap up tackler. Pedal and turns were smooth and I felt he could flip his hips and go. Like his plant and drive and showed good ball skills. Was impressed with Senior Bowl efforts. Late 1st or top of the 2nd consideration.
4	29	Branch	Tyvon	Connecticut U	DC	5113v	208v	4.35v
	I really liked what I saw with this player. Is strong, athletic and played physical. Big hitter and a secured well as a tackler. Has the size and speed to match up on the outside vs a speed receiver. Can play off man effectively and was impressive when rerouting receivers on press coverage. Appears to have playing smarts and savvy. Had some opportunities to make plays on the ball, but his ball skills appeared somewhat questionable. Late 1st top of the 2nd
5	3	Talib	Aqib	Kansas U	DC	6006v	202v	4.50v
	Talented shutdown corner with a world of ability. Like his size, zone awareness and ball skill. Is field fast, has excellent feet, plant and drive skills, with rare ball awareness. Sorts it out very quickly, has wideout hands and has outstanding match up possibilities on the outside. Good but not an exceptional tackler. Has some off the field concerns, but this is the real deal. Mid to late first, top of the second draft potnetial.
6	1	King	Justin	Penn St	DC	5107v	192v	4.37v
	A raw prospect with very good athletic ability & a rare combination of speed & acceleration. Was very inconsistent in his play in 2007. Can do all of the things you want physically, but lacks playing instincts / concentration. Man cover were were uneven. Better press then off corner. Questionable zone awareness.Adequate tackler (gets them off their feet). Lined up at WR in 07, but is just a take off guy. Rare talent, but buyer beware. Round 2 -3.
7	26	Wheatley	Terrence	Colorado U	DC	5095v	187v	4.43v
	Has very impressive cover skills (man to man and in zone) Very impressive athlete. (feet, hips, balance abd quickness) Showed easy acceleration. Can mirror and cover the double move. Marginal run support guy. Gives an effort, but struggled to get off blocks and get to the ball carrier. Little guy who looked like the proto type nickel back. Has late 2nd to solid 3rd round draft consideration.
8	5	Cason	Antoine	Arizona U	DC	6002v	191v	4.55v
	A good college football player with impressive ball skills and play making ability. Has outstanding size and a lot of playing savvy, but also has a high center (leggy) and doesn’t have top speed to play over the top or the burst to close on the underneath throws. I also didn’t think he was particularly tough or physical (marginal grab tackler) Possible FS project. More then dequate punt return skills and potential. Draft consideration round 2 to the top of the third.
9	28	Thomas	Terrell	USC	DC	6004v	202v	4.54v
	Has size, experience and Athletic ability. I felt he was effective underneath cover corner (good balance points and plant and drive skills) Has good hands (wide catching radius), long arms and was a more then adequate wrap up tackler. Only negitives appeared to be his top speed and his ability to play the ball down the field. Didn’t think that he positioned himself or reacted to the ball in flight. Experienced and consistent but just not a racehorse. Late 2 to mid 3rd.
10	11	Lee	Patrick	Auburn U	DC	6000v	200v	4.49v
	Unranked player coming into his senior season who has made great strides as a player. Has excellent size, runs extremely well (can match up against the race horses in the league), but needs a great deal of work on his position skills. Felt he played tall and was somewhat stiff in his hips. Not a tough guy and has very poor ball skills. Is going to be drafted sooner then my grade would indicate, but is not near ready to impact at the NFL level. Draft round # 3
12	17	Molden	Antwaun	Eastern Kentucky U	DC	6006v	198v	4.43v
	Toledo transfer who has lined up at both corner and safety. Also has run the sprints and track. Has excellent size and speed to go along with excellent quickness and excellent athletic ability. Equally impressive in press and when working off. Showed explosive hips, quick feet, and the speed to match up with speed receivers. Just didn’t see A-1 ball skills and play making ability. Is not there yet, but has too much physical talent not to play. Round # 3 to 4.
11	9	Porter	Tracy	Indiana U	DC	5107v	188v	4.49v
	Became the first IU CB to be named first-team All-Big Ten since ’89; Second in IU history with 16 interceptions, including six in 2007. Career-high 75 tackles as a senior. Has a lot of speed and athletic ability, but is just not very physical and or tough. A “you first” grab tackler. Had 6 picks, but I still question his overall ball skills. Punt return skills is a real plus. Late 3nd or top of the 4th round consideration.
13	8	Scandrick	Orlando	Boise St	DC	5100v	192v	4.35v
	This is a solidly built player with outstanding speed and easy acceleration. Gets from point A to point B very quickly. Has good hips and showed the ability to plant and drive on the ball underneath. Liked his foot quicks, balance points and ability to turn and go when defending the deep ball. I didn’t see outstanding ball skills and zone play was Inconsistent. Returner skills (punt) are a . Round 5 – 7 draft potential.
14	18	Flowers	Brandon	Virginia Tech U	DC	5096v	189v	4.59v
	This player has good feet and is a fast twitch athlete short area player (quicker then fast). Worked out of a compact pedal and kept good relationship with receivers in his cushion.Has marginal speed, but compensated for this critical shortcoming with excellent playing instincts, awareness, and anticipation. Has impressive ball skills. More then held his own defending the run. Is a good player, but is undersized and lacks the pure speed to cover the race horses.
15	2	Williams	Jack	Kent State	DC	5090v	178v	4.36v
	Liked this players aggressiveness, quickness in a limited area and toughness particularly for a little man. Has quick feet, man cover skills and showed the ability to plant and close to the ball. On the negative side is undersized and likely to be limited to a sub package special teams role. Dangerous kick returner. Was injured for much ot the 07 season and this is an area where their may be future concerns. Is undersized, but you can’t find enough cover corners.
16	8	Ikeqwuonu	Jack	Wisconsin U	DC	5104v	194v	4.45e
	Good player with impressive press corner skills. Suffered a serious ACL injury to his right knee in pre-Combine training which may well affect his value and draft standing. Is a fluid athlete with quick feet. He gets an excellent break, but made few plays on the football (1 int. in 07). Very physical in press coverage. Involved in an off the field incident in Illinois that will be scrutinized by the pro clubs. Top two round selection (big upside) if all the pieces fit.
17	21	Jackson	Chevis	LSU	DC	6000v	192v	4.64v
	Experienced hand with position skills, awareness and size. Just doesn’t have the type of speed you look for out on an island. Best suited to play in a cover 2 scheme. Has adequate ball skills. Good tackler (particularly for the position). Has a duel chance to play on a wing or on the inside. A good football player, but if you struggle with speed, they (OC’s) within the NFL will find you. Mid round (3 – 4) consideration.
18	13	Godfrey	Charles	Iowa U	DC	5116v	207v	4.47v
	Doesn’t play as fast as timed speed. Does have quick feet and short area quickness. A lot of bail technique,which leads me to believe that he would be best suited to play in a cover 2 scheme or move inside to the safety position. Showed a tendency to bite on double moves and was late to turn and go (lets receiver close cushion far too quickly). Has second day (4th to 5th) draft consideration.
19	3	Terrell	Darnell	Missouri U	DC	6016v	203v	4.49v
	Has all physical numbers you look for in a wing, but I was disappointing in his play. Lacks the feet, hips and man cover skills for a corner & was neither tough or physical enough to play effectively inside. A marginal tackler in my estimation. In fairness to the player may be playing DC due to team needs rather then where he best fits into a scheme. Adequate hands and may be best suited to line up as a FS. Late round consideration
23	21	Williams	Trae	South Florida U	DC	5090v	193v	4.54v
	Experienced four year regular. Liked his foot quicks, body control and I felt his hands were outstanding for the position. The problem that I see with this player is that he does not have top speed for the position and is short in stature. Marginal strength and overall effectiveness in press coverage. Was marginal in run support (marginal wrap up tackler who missed too frequently). A nickel back and back up corner. 6th to 7th draft potential.
25	14	Bowman	Zackary	Nebraska U	DC	6001v	197v	4.44v
	Athletic corner with size, speed and match up potential on the outside, but has not recovered from a knee reconstruction sustained during in 2006. Struggled with direction chance and was inconsistent with his plant and drive. Just wouldn’t or couldn’t pull the trigger. Late to fill the ally. Came back too fast and did not play with confidence. Might take a late round flyer on this player, but the thought that he might well be two year’s away from contributing.
21	24	Walker	Marcus	Oklahoma U	DC	5103v	191v	4.61v
	Smooth athletic cover two corner prospect with good feet, balance points and pedal. Has good speed, but I didn’t see the suddenness that is necessary to cover speed on the outside. Let receiver close the cushion too quickly & was late to turn. Has man cover skills, but I didn’t think he showed much in the way of ball skills. Not a very physical player. See him as a sub package corner and special teams contributor. Round 5 – 6..
22	25	Lowery	Dwight	San Jose St	DC	5111v	201v	4.68v
	Impressive looking physically with good hips and feet. Has ball skills and good hands, but the big problem that I see with this player is he really can’t run and will have a difficult time in man coverage. Gets people on the ground, but I wouldn’t consider him a tenacious hitter. Will need to play in a cover two scheme or move inside if he is to have any real chance of playing.
26	3	Fontenot	Wilrey	Arizona U	DC	5086v	171v	4.48v
	This is an undersized, but talented corner with adequate speed and very good quickness. I liked his feet, quick hips and the way he competed in all games viewed. Is a more then adequate tackler who will stick his face in there. Makes plays. Is not really as big nor fast enough, but I loved his playing charactor. Has physical limitations, but I liked his overall game. Has sub package playing potential . 7th or priority free agent consideration.
24	26	Davis	Dowayne	Syracuse U	DC	5111v	194v	4.55e
	Tweener. Smart and experienced. Has played both safety and corner. Good work ethic, impressive physical skills, can fly, but has limitations. A straight line guy, who had problems with direction change. Cover two corner potential. Has the size and speed you want outside, but the lack of COD concerns me. Long strider. More of a hitter then he was a wrap up tackler. Good teams potential. Late round (6-7) draft potential.
20	27	Tribble	DeJaun	Boston College	DC	5086v	189v	4.63v
	Little guy who does not play near as fast as his (07) spring speed. Best when he can keep things in front of him. Trouble down the field (deep) or when the field shortens (red zone). Marginal burst to close or to turn and go. Does have very good ball skills, is smart, and showed good zone awareness. Falls off too many tackles. Best suited to play in nickel and dime package. A poor man’s Dre Bly (without the speed). Has 5th to 7th round draft consideration.
27	4	Sharpe	Glenn	Miami U	DC	5115v	184v	4.57v
	Burst on to the scene early (true freshman), but has not made significant progress since that time. Has size and speed to cover and react to throws down the field. Fluid in his turns. while also showing the hands and feet to play effectively in press coverage. Somewhat disappointing in his ball skills. Non factor within the run game. Below average tackler. Nickel potential. Seventh round or PFA.
28	4	Tryon	Justin	Arizona St	DC	5087v	190v	4.45v
	Tough little cover corner with good feet, a compact pedal and the ability to turn and go. Showed quick hips and can stick his foot in the ground and close on the ball underneath. Is a little man, but was physical defending the run. Lack of length will limit him in match up situations, but this player doesn’t back down. Was fiesty and tough. Has strong sub package and kick off return potential. Plays a good deal bigger then his numbers. Round 6 – 7
29	19	Zenon	Jonathan	LSU	DC	5116v	191v	4.63v
	Tough experienced combo guy (corner and safety). Has size, but lacks the top end speed to consistently get over the top in half coverage. Will struggle with the race horses on the outside (didn’t see the necessary burst).Said to play his own game and doesn’t always prepare for the job at hand. A cover two corner prospect. Has played a lot of football in a big arena, but I just think I have a feeling he will really struggle at the next level. Free agent prospect

Scouting the 2008 Middle Linebackers

Gus — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 19:38:13 +0000

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.

2008 Linebackers

Gus — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 19:23:40 +0000

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