There are only four players eligible for today’s 2010 NFL supplemental draft, and while one prospect stands out above the rest and another is worthy of a later-round pick, teams must decide if making a selection this July is worth giving up another similar pick next April. A quick ranking of the quartet and their projected fates:
Ineligible at Illinois, Josh Price-Brent will take his first step into the NFL.
1. Josh Price-Brent, DT, Illinois. Nose tackle expected to be third- or fourth-round pick.
2. Harvey Unga, RB, BYU. Fullback hybrid should be a fifth- or sixth-round pick.
3. Quentin Castille, RB, Northwestern (La.) State. Didn’t produce enough in college to get more than free-agent consideration.
4. Vanness Emokpae, WR, Truman State (Mo.). With a thick body for wide receiver, may have trouble sticking with any team.
None of these players needs be taken, but teams have found starters in previous supplemental drafts.
One example: Baltimore Ravens tackle
Jared Gaither, who was selected in the fifth round in 2007. He has made 28 starts in three years despite injuries last season. Another? Bernie Kosar, selected by the Cleveland Browns in 1985. Kosar finished his degree early and entered the supplemental draft rather than spend another season with Miami (Fla.).
One player was selected in the 2009 supplemental draft — Kentucky defensive end Jeremy Jarmon, a third-round pick by the Washington Redskins.
Kosar aside, players in the supplemental draft generally have lost their final year of college eligibility. Price-Brent was ruled academically ineligible; Unga was dismissed from school for honor code violations.
When the Redskins selected Jarmon last July, they surrendered a third-round pick in 2010’s April draft.
According to NFL.com’s Gil Brandt, "The supplemental draft began in 1977
as a way to accommodate players who weren’t eligible for the upcoming college football season. That year, Notre Dame RB Al Hunter (career stats) flunked out of school after the NFL draft but before his senior season in college. Because Hunter wouldn’t have been eligible to transfer, the supplemental draft was created."
Teams have paid interest in this year’s players. Reports say as many as
20 teams had scouts at Unga’s pro day workout. The Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and St. Louis Rams are believed interested in Unga.
— Contributing: Ray Slover
This story appears in July 15’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
There are only four players eligible for today’s 2010 NFL supplemental draft, and while one prospect stands out above the rest and another is worthy of a later-round pick, teams must decide if making a selection this July is worth giving up another similar pick next April. A quick ranking of the quartet and their projected fates:
Ineligible at Illinois, Josh Price-Brent will take his first step into the NFL.
1. Josh Price-Brent, DT, Illinois. Nose tackle expected to be third- or fourth-round pick.
2. Harvey Unga, RB, BYU. Fullback hybrid should be a fifth- or sixth-round pick.
3. Quentin Castille, RB, Northwestern (La.) State. Didn’t produce enough in college to get more than free-agent consideration.
4. Vanness Emokpae, WR, Truman State (Mo.). With a thick body for wide receiver, may have trouble sticking with any team.
None of these players needs be taken, but teams have found starters in previous supplemental drafts.
One example: Baltimore Ravens tackle
Jared Gaither, who was selected in the fifth round in 2007. He has made 28 starts in three years despite injuries last season. Another? Bernie Kosar, selected by the Cleveland Browns in 1985. Kosar finished his degree early and entered the supplemental draft rather than spend another season with Miami (Fla.).
One player was selected in the 2009 supplemental draft — Kentucky defensive end Jeremy Jarmon, a third-round pick by the Washington Redskins.
Kosar aside, players in the supplemental draft generally have lost their final year of college eligibility. Price-Brent was ruled academically ineligible; Unga was dismissed from school for honor code violations.
When the Redskins selected Jarmon last July, they surrendered a third-round pick in 2010’s April draft.
According to NFL.com’s Gil Brandt, "The supplemental draft began in 1977
as a way to accommodate players who weren’t eligible for the upcoming college football season. That year, Notre Dame RB Al Hunter (career stats) flunked out of school after the NFL draft but before his senior season in college. Because Hunter wouldn’t have been eligible to transfer, the supplemental draft was created."
Teams have paid interest in this year’s players. Reports say as many as
20 teams had scouts at Unga’s pro day workout. The Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and St. Louis Rams are believed interested in Unga.
— Contributing: Ray Slover
This story appears in July 15’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
The top five reaches in this year’s draft:
1. Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos (Round 1, Pick 25 overall). He is a long way from being an NFL quarterback and unlikely to ever develop into a good passer.
2. Tyson Alualu, DT, Jaguars (Round 1, Pick 10). He is an excellent athlete but is a tackle/end ‘tweener in a 4-3 scheme, so he has no clear home in the Jaguars’ defense.
3. T.J. Ward, S, Browns (Round 2, Pick 38). He is tough and delivers hard hits, but he is a liability in coverage and could struggle to become an every-down player.
4. Javier Arenas, CB, Chiefs (Round 2, Pick 50). He is a good nickel back and return man, but you should be able to get a starter with a second-round pick.
5. Carlos Dunlap, DE, Bengals (Round 2, Pick 54). For pure physical talent, this is a good pick. However, his on-field production was that of a sixth- or seventh-rounder. Plus, he’s a character risk.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
The top five reaches in this year’s draft:
1. Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos (Round 1, Pick 25 overall). He is a long way from being an NFL quarterback and unlikely to ever develop into a good passer.
2. Tyson Alualu, DT, Jaguars (Round 1, Pick 10). He is an excellent athlete but is a tackle/end ‘tweener in a 4-3 scheme, so he has no clear home in the Jaguars’ defense.
3. T.J. Ward, S, Browns (Round 2, Pick 38). He is tough and delivers hard hits, but he is a liability in coverage and could struggle to become an every-down player.
4. Javier Arenas, CB, Chiefs (Round 2, Pick 50). He is a good nickel back and return man, but you should be able to get a starter with a second-round pick.
5. Carlos Dunlap, DE, Bengals (Round 2, Pick 54). For pure physical talent, this is a good pick. However, his on-field production was that of a sixth- or seventh-rounder. Plus, he’s a character risk.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Sam Bradford.
Sam Bradford enters the 2010 draft as the top prospect and likely No. 1 pick.
NFL position: QB
Height: 6-4 1/4
Weight: 236
40 time: 4.90
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Tom Brady, Patriots
Arm strength: Has deceptive arm strength. Has a bad habit of sometimes throwing flat-footed on quick-hit passes. When striding into throws, gets good zip on the ball. The intermediate and deep passes in Oklahoma’s offense also typically required touch passes and thus he doesn’t throw the ball with as much zip.
Accuracy/release: Shows excellent accuracy when striding into throws, but will need more zip on intermediate and downfield routes in the NFL. On quick-hit routes, consistently puts the ball in the right spot and through tight windows. Sets up quickly, and shows a quick and efficient release but it looks at times as if he’s pushing the ball a bit, a la the Chargers’ Philip Rivers.
Field vision: Consistently reads the defense well, both at the line pre-snap and during the play. Sees the field well from shotgun alignment, goes through progressions quickly and correctly identifies the open man. Must learn to do all these things while dropping back from center to be as effective — a real challenge and underrated aspect.
Running ability: Lacks elite quickness, speed or athleticism, but is good enough to extend a play or perhaps gain a first down with his feet. Senses pressure well up the middle but does struggle to feel the blindside pressure.
Intangibles: Has great intangibles. Is smart, and adjusts easily to changes based on the defense from shotgun alignment. Shows good leadership skills. Shows good poise in the pocket, willing to take a big hit to deliver the ball. Does not force passes into bad spots, and is willing to throw the ball away to avoid a sack.
Bottom line: Bradford is tall and athletic and proved his shoulder healthy during NFL physicals after missing several games last season with a sprain. The bigger question, though, is how well he’ll adjust to lining up under center to play in a traditional NFL offense. Still, he is the most accurate QB we ever have graded and seems like a lock to be the No. 1-overall pick.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Sam Bradford.
Sam Bradford enters the 2010 draft as the top prospect and likely No. 1 pick.
NFL position: QB
Height: 6-4 1/4
Weight: 236
40 time: 4.90
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Tom Brady, Patriots
Arm strength: Has deceptive arm strength. Has a bad habit of sometimes throwing flat-footed on quick-hit passes. When striding into throws, gets good zip on the ball. The intermediate and deep passes in Oklahoma’s offense also typically required touch passes and thus he doesn’t throw the ball with as much zip.
Accuracy/release: Shows excellent accuracy when striding into throws, but will need more zip on intermediate and downfield routes in the NFL. On quick-hit routes, consistently puts the ball in the right spot and through tight windows. Sets up quickly, and shows a quick and efficient release but it looks at times as if he’s pushing the ball a bit, a la the Chargers’ Philip Rivers.
Field vision: Consistently reads the defense well, both at the line pre-snap and during the play. Sees the field well from shotgun alignment, goes through progressions quickly and correctly identifies the open man. Must learn to do all these things while dropping back from center to be as effective — a real challenge and underrated aspect.
Running ability: Lacks elite quickness, speed or athleticism, but is good enough to extend a play or perhaps gain a first down with his feet. Senses pressure well up the middle but does struggle to feel the blindside pressure.
Intangibles: Has great intangibles. Is smart, and adjusts easily to changes based on the defense from shotgun alignment. Shows good leadership skills. Shows good poise in the pocket, willing to take a big hit to deliver the ball. Does not force passes into bad spots, and is willing to throw the ball away to avoid a sack.
Bottom line: Bradford is tall and athletic and proved his shoulder healthy during NFL physicals after missing several games last season with a sprain. The bigger question, though, is how well he’ll adjust to lining up under center to play in a traditional NFL offense. Still, he is the most accurate QB we ever have graded and seems like a lock to be the No. 1-overall pick.
Draft day is here, and it’s time to dispense with the evaluations and make some bold predictions:
• Texas safety Earl Thomas, not Tennessee safety Eric Berry, will be the first defensive back selected. Though Berry received hype throughout the college season as the best safety and possibly the best defensive prospect, his play on the field did not back that up. In many draft rooms, there was a lot of disappointment in his play, which has led to many questions about his ability to become a productive starting safety.
When Thomas declared for the draft, he was not expected to be a top 10 pick or challenge Berry in any way. However, he is a much more consistent, productive player than Berry and is right there with Berry when it comes to natural athleticism. That’s why we expect Thomas to go first. Berry is one of the most overrated players in the draft and has bust written all over him.
• Iowa TE Tony Moeaki did not receive much media attention leading up to the draft. Nevertheless, we have had rated him No. 2 on our tight end list since October — and now the word is getting out that some teams like him as much as we do.
His ability as a blocker and receiver make him the second-best all-around tight end behind Arizona’s
Rob Gronkowski. Though Moeaki won’t be a top-20 pick, we are hearing he could be selected between picks 25 to 50, which is much higher than he was expected to go a month ago.
• Although the debate over which of the top offensive tackle prospects — Oklahoma State’s
Russell Okung or Oklahoma’s
Trent Williams — will be drafted first has been the focus of much attention, the rise of Iowa’s
Bryan Bulaga has also been a big story.
However, many people around the league are confused about Bulaga’s ascent because he is not an elite athlete or player. Many have commented that Bulaga’s rise can be traced to his status as a "safe" pick. Don’t be surprised if he ends up sliding on draft day and isn’t the third tackle selected after Okung and Williams.
• Fordham QB John Skelton will be drafted significantly higher than his on-field production warrants, and he will struggle to justify being drafted that high. After seeing Skelton live and observing him on game film, it is clear that he does not consistently see the field well. He also forces throws, and his deliberate throwing style allows defenders to get a good break on his passes.
There is no doubt his physical tools are excellent, which will likely get him drafted in the third or fourth round, but don’t expect him to develop.
• Florida MLB Brandon Spikes, who put up a bad 40 time in offseason testing, will be another example of teams putting too much stock in a player’s workout while ignoring his on-field play and playing speed. We don’t believe Spikes will become a superstar because he lacks top-end speed, but his excellent instincts allow him to constantly make plays between the tackles.
He can be a good middle ‘backer in a 4-3 scheme, but he would be a real standout in a 3-4 scheme like New England’s or Cleveland’s.
• We are Tennessee QB Jonathan Crompton‘s biggest supporters, but now it seems people around the NFL agree with us. We are hearing he could be a third- to fifth-round pick, which is amazing considering he was not invited to the Combine and was viewed by many in the league as a non-prospect as recently as January.
Not only are we confident he will be drafted much higher than people expected a few months ago, we believe he can become a productive starting quarterback in the NFL.
• Penn State LB Navorro Bowman will not be a high pick, although some said he would be a first-round pick. Bowman is not viewed as an upper-echelon athlete or player and will likely slide to the third or fourth round.
• Arizona State RB Dimitri Nance is another player who has not received much attention. But we believe once NFL games start, that will change. Many scouts have been expressing to us what we thought all along: Nance will become a good starting running back. Though he will not be a high pick, he should be a fourth- or fifth-rounder.
• Fresno State RB Ryan Mathews will likely be a first-round pick, but you can be sure that
Lonyae Miller, who backed up Mathews, will also be drafted. It is uncommon for a backup back to be drafted unless he had at least one big season of production while filling in, but Miller did not have that.
Miller helped himself a lot with a very good week at the Senior Bowl and teams have been impressed evaluating his film. So don’t be shocked when he gets drafted in the fifth or sixth round.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated Mock Draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Draft day is here, and it’s time to dispense with the evaluations and make some bold predictions:
• Texas safety Earl Thomas, not Tennessee safety Eric Berry, will be the first defensive back selected. Though Berry received hype throughout the college season as the best safety and possibly the best defensive prospect, his play on the field did not back that up. In many draft rooms, there was a lot of disappointment in his play, which has led to many questions about his ability to become a productive starting safety.
When Thomas declared for the draft, he was not expected to be a top 10 pick or challenge Berry in any way. However, he is a much more consistent, productive player than Berry and is right there with Berry when it comes to natural athleticism. That’s why we expect Thomas to go first. Berry is one of the most overrated players in the draft and has bust written all over him.
• Iowa TE Tony Moeaki did not receive much media attention leading up to the draft. Nevertheless, we have had rated him No. 2 on our tight end list since October — and now the word is getting out that some teams like him as much as we do.
His ability as a blocker and receiver make him the second-best all-around tight end behind Arizona’s
Rob Gronkowski. Though Moeaki won’t be a top-20 pick, we are hearing he could be selected between picks 25 to 50, which is much higher than he was expected to go a month ago.
• Although the debate over which of the top offensive tackle prospects — Oklahoma State’s
Russell Okung or Oklahoma’s
Trent Williams — will be drafted first has been the focus of much attention, the rise of Iowa’s
Bryan Bulaga has also been a big story.
However, many people around the league are confused about Bulaga’s ascent because he is not an elite athlete or player. Many have commented that Bulaga’s rise can be traced to his status as a "safe" pick. Don’t be surprised if he ends up sliding on draft day and isn’t the third tackle selected after Okung and Williams.
• Fordham QB John Skelton will be drafted significantly higher than his on-field production warrants, and he will struggle to justify being drafted that high. After seeing Skelton live and observing him on game film, it is clear that he does not consistently see the field well. He also forces throws, and his deliberate throwing style allows defenders to get a good break on his passes.
There is no doubt his physical tools are excellent, which will likely get him drafted in the third or fourth round, but don’t expect him to develop.
• Florida MLB Brandon Spikes, who put up a bad 40 time in offseason testing, will be another example of teams putting too much stock in a player’s workout while ignoring his on-field play and playing speed. We don’t believe Spikes will become a superstar because he lacks top-end speed, but his excellent instincts allow him to constantly make plays between the tackles.
He can be a good middle ‘backer in a 4-3 scheme, but he would be a real standout in a 3-4 scheme like New England’s or Cleveland’s.
• We are Tennessee QB Jonathan Crompton‘s biggest supporters, but now it seems people around the NFL agree with us. We are hearing he could be a third- to fifth-round pick, which is amazing considering he was not invited to the Combine and was viewed by many in the league as a non-prospect as recently as January.
Not only are we confident he will be drafted much higher than people expected a few months ago, we believe he can become a productive starting quarterback in the NFL.
• Penn State LB Navorro Bowman will not be a high pick, although some said he would be a first-round pick. Bowman is not viewed as an upper-echelon athlete or player and will likely slide to the third or fourth round.
• Arizona State RB Dimitri Nance is another player who has not received much attention. But we believe once NFL games start, that will change. Many scouts have been expressing to us what we thought all along: Nance will become a good starting running back. Though he will not be a high pick, he should be a fourth- or fifth-rounder.
• Fresno State RB Ryan Mathews will likely be a first-round pick, but you can be sure that
Lonyae Miller, who backed up Mathews, will also be drafted. It is uncommon for a backup back to be drafted unless he had at least one big season of production while filling in, but Miller did not have that.
Miller helped himself a lot with a very good week at the Senior Bowl and teams have been impressed evaluating his film. So don’t be shocked when he gets drafted in the fifth or sixth round.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated Mock Draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect C.J. Spiller.
NFL position: RB
Height: 5-10 5⁄8
Weight: 194
40 time: 4.36
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Chris Johnson, Titans
Inside running: Can be a dangerous, but is inconsistent. Is quick to identify a crease and explode into it. Shows the balance, agility and strength to run through arm tackles, but doesn’t break many tackles. Is a bit of an upright runner, leaving body susceptible to hard hits. Doesn’t lower shoulders to deliver blows to defenders. Is a dangerous cutback runner, showing a sharp "jump cut" to explode through holes. Can freeze defenders in the hole and explode past them. Grade: 7.5
Outside running: Is a threat to score on every touch because of rare athleticism, speed, balance and strength. Is patient waiting for blockers to open a hole or seal the edge. Is an explosive cutback runner. Keeps legs churning, and fights for every yard. Grade: 8.5
Blocking: Lacks experience. Wasn’t asked to lead block on any running plays in the games we evaluated. In pass protection, gives a solid effort and shows enough strength to be effective. Must be more aggressive and use better technique. Grade: 5.5
Hands/routes: Is not polished, but has all the tools. Is quick and explosive down the sideline and when aligned in the slot. Shows the quickness, explosiveness and speed to consistently separate from defenders. Shows good hands, and catches the ball well; twists body nicely to adjust to off-target passes. Grade: 6.5
Durability: Is the issue that could keep him from becoming an elite NFL back. Is strong and well built, but had trouble staying healthy in college. Shared the workload until senior season. Grade: 5.5
Bottom line: Spiller surprised us by returning to Clemson for his senior season because players with his rare big-play ability usually jump at the chance to enter the draft. He would’ve been a firstround pick in ’09 but improved his stock as a senior, showing improved inside running and receiving skills. Spiller gets personnel men excited because he has all the tools to be an NFL star, someone who makes big plays from a variety of alignments.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect C.J. Spiller.
NFL position: RB
Height: 5-10 5⁄8
Weight: 194
40 time: 4.36
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Chris Johnson, Titans
Inside running: Can be a dangerous, but is inconsistent. Is quick to identify a crease and explode into it. Shows the balance, agility and strength to run through arm tackles, but doesn’t break many tackles. Is a bit of an upright runner, leaving body susceptible to hard hits. Doesn’t lower shoulders to deliver blows to defenders. Is a dangerous cutback runner, showing a sharp "jump cut" to explode through holes. Can freeze defenders in the hole and explode past them. Grade: 7.5
Outside running: Is a threat to score on every touch because of rare athleticism, speed, balance and strength. Is patient waiting for blockers to open a hole or seal the edge. Is an explosive cutback runner. Keeps legs churning, and fights for every yard. Grade: 8.5
Blocking: Lacks experience. Wasn’t asked to lead block on any running plays in the games we evaluated. In pass protection, gives a solid effort and shows enough strength to be effective. Must be more aggressive and use better technique. Grade: 5.5
Hands/routes: Is not polished, but has all the tools. Is quick and explosive down the sideline and when aligned in the slot. Shows the quickness, explosiveness and speed to consistently separate from defenders. Shows good hands, and catches the ball well; twists body nicely to adjust to off-target passes. Grade: 6.5
Durability: Is the issue that could keep him from becoming an elite NFL back. Is strong and well built, but had trouble staying healthy in college. Shared the workload until senior season. Grade: 5.5
Bottom line: Spiller surprised us by returning to Clemson for his senior season because players with his rare big-play ability usually jump at the chance to enter the draft. He would’ve been a firstround pick in ’09 but improved his stock as a senior, showing improved inside running and receiving skills. Spiller gets personnel men excited because he has all the tools to be an NFL star, someone who makes big plays from a variety of alignments.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Russell Okung.
Russell Okung compares favorably to one of the best young tackles in the pros.
NFL position: OT
Height: 6-5 1/4
Weight: 307
40 time: 5.22
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Ryan Clady, Broncos
Run blocking: Must improve in this area. Gets out of stance quickly, enabling him to lock and seal defensive linemen when maintaining good balance. Is not a fire-off-the-snap sort of run blocker; is more of a "catch blocker" who can be driven backward—it’s especially noticeable in short-yardage situations. Does not slide or use hands well to neutralize defenders who crash inside. Is an impressive open-field blocker with the athleticism to maintain balance and adjust to moving targets. Grade: 5.5
Pass blocking: Is an elite pass blocker. Easily slides outside to cutoff explosive edge rushers. Once locked up on pass rushers, eliminates them. Bends knees well and sinks hips to pass block with good leverage. Shows the quickness and agility so easily re-direct and adjust to double-moves. Has long arms and when using hand punch aggressively can stop pass rusher in his tracks, but is inconsistent. Grade: 8.5
Initial quickness: Anticipates the snap well to get out of stance quickly. Shows the initial quickness, speed and athleticism to pull and lead perimeter runs. Grade: 8.0
Strength: Shows good natural strength, but doesn’t always use it effectively. No doubt has the natural strength to physically dominate his man when using good technique, blocking aggressively and working to the whistle. Grade: 7.0
Mobility: Shows the elite athleticism and mobility NFL coaches drool over. Can lead on perimeter runs or get through the line of scrimmage to block linebackers on the second level. In pass protection, can handle speed rushers and negate quick double-moves. Grade: 9.0
Bottom line: Okung is an elite athlete with the height, long arms and pass-blocking skill rare for a left tackle. He is far from a polished prospect—especially needs technique work as a run blocker—but is a sure-fire top-10 pick. He reminds us of Broncos All-Pro left tackle Ryan Clady.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Russell Okung.
Russell Okung compares favorably to one of the best young tackles in the pros.
NFL position: OT
Height: 6-5 1/4
Weight: 307
40 time: 5.22
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Ryan Clady, Broncos
Run blocking: Must improve in this area. Gets out of stance quickly, enabling him to lock and seal defensive linemen when maintaining good balance. Is not a fire-off-the-snap sort of run blocker; is more of a "catch blocker" who can be driven backward—it’s especially noticeable in short-yardage situations. Does not slide or use hands well to neutralize defenders who crash inside. Is an impressive open-field blocker with the athleticism to maintain balance and adjust to moving targets. Grade: 5.5
Pass blocking: Is an elite pass blocker. Easily slides outside to cutoff explosive edge rushers. Once locked up on pass rushers, eliminates them. Bends knees well and sinks hips to pass block with good leverage. Shows the quickness and agility so easily re-direct and adjust to double-moves. Has long arms and when using hand punch aggressively can stop pass rusher in his tracks, but is inconsistent. Grade: 8.5
Initial quickness: Anticipates the snap well to get out of stance quickly. Shows the initial quickness, speed and athleticism to pull and lead perimeter runs. Grade: 8.0
Strength: Shows good natural strength, but doesn’t always use it effectively. No doubt has the natural strength to physically dominate his man when using good technique, blocking aggressively and working to the whistle. Grade: 7.0
Mobility: Shows the elite athleticism and mobility NFL coaches drool over. Can lead on perimeter runs or get through the line of scrimmage to block linebackers on the second level. In pass protection, can handle speed rushers and negate quick double-moves. Grade: 9.0
Bottom line: Okung is an elite athlete with the height, long arms and pass-blocking skill rare for a left tackle. He is far from a polished prospect—especially needs technique work as a run blocker—but is a sure-fire top-10 pick. He reminds us of Broncos All-Pro left tackle Ryan Clady.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Mike Iupati:
Mike Iupati’s size and strength are highly attractive to NFL teams.
NFL position: G
Height: 6-5 1/8
Weight: 331
40 time: 5.32
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Kris Dielman, Chargers
Run blocking: Is physically dominant because of uncommon size, strength and athleticism. On in-line run blocks, flashes good aggressiveness firing off the snap to deliver violent blows to defensive tackles and then use strength to drive his man out of the play. Is equally effective leading on perimeter runs. When keeping knees bent and maintaining contact with the linebacker, can easily ride him out of the play. Shows good quickness and athleticism to make short pulls and lead block.
Pass blocking: Has the talent to be an elite pass blocker when using good technique and aggressiveness. When focused on technique, bends knees and pass blocks with good leverage. When using aggressive hand punch, can jolt defensive linemen upright. Occasionally gets lazy with hands and allows pass rusher to get into his chest and drive him backward. Shows the quickness to slide and adjust to line stunts and blitzes. Has a bad habit of staying flat-footed and reaching for defenders and thus falling off blocks.
Initial quickness: Gets out of stance and into position quickly. Gets off the snap and through the line of scrimmage with surprising quickness, getting ideal position to block the linebacker. Gets set quickly in pass protection.
Strength: Shows natural strength to dominate when aggressive and using good technique. On in-line run blocks, can torque defensive linemen of their feet and onto the ground. He shows excellent strength on side blocks, often collapsing the entire side of the line to create a massive hole. Consistently holds his ground vs. bull rushers when keeping knees bent.
Mobility: Shows good, but not elite, mobility. Can pull and effectively block defenders in his track. Is not as effective when having to block moving targets.
Bottom line: Big, strong guards with good athleticism who block with intensity and passion are tough to find. Iupati must learn to be consistent with his technique but projects as a good NFL starter. Many say he can switch to tackle, but we feel he is best suited to stay at guard. He could be a solid NFL tackle but has the tools to be a Pro Bowl guard.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Mike Iupati:
Mike Iupati’s size and strength are highly attractive to NFL teams.
NFL position: G
Height: 6-5 1/8
Weight: 331
40 time: 5.32
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Kris Dielman, Chargers
Run blocking: Is physically dominant because of uncommon size, strength and athleticism. On in-line run blocks, flashes good aggressiveness firing off the snap to deliver violent blows to defensive tackles and then use strength to drive his man out of the play. Is equally effective leading on perimeter runs. When keeping knees bent and maintaining contact with the linebacker, can easily ride him out of the play. Shows good quickness and athleticism to make short pulls and lead block.
Pass blocking: Has the talent to be an elite pass blocker when using good technique and aggressiveness. When focused on technique, bends knees and pass blocks with good leverage. When using aggressive hand punch, can jolt defensive linemen upright. Occasionally gets lazy with hands and allows pass rusher to get into his chest and drive him backward. Shows the quickness to slide and adjust to line stunts and blitzes. Has a bad habit of staying flat-footed and reaching for defenders and thus falling off blocks.
Initial quickness: Gets out of stance and into position quickly. Gets off the snap and through the line of scrimmage with surprising quickness, getting ideal position to block the linebacker. Gets set quickly in pass protection.
Strength: Shows natural strength to dominate when aggressive and using good technique. On in-line run blocks, can torque defensive linemen of their feet and onto the ground. He shows excellent strength on side blocks, often collapsing the entire side of the line to create a massive hole. Consistently holds his ground vs. bull rushers when keeping knees bent.
Mobility: Shows good, but not elite, mobility. Can pull and effectively block defenders in his track. Is not as effective when having to block moving targets.
Bottom line: Big, strong guards with good athleticism who block with intensity and passion are tough to find. Iupati must learn to be consistent with his technique but projects as a good NFL starter. Many say he can switch to tackle, but we feel he is best suited to stay at guard. He could be a solid NFL tackle but has the tools to be a Pro Bowl guard.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Our experts see Maurkice Pouncey as a solid pass protector.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Maurkice Pouncey.
NFL position: C
Height: 6-4 1/2
Weight: 304
40 time: 5.27
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Matt Birk, Ravens
Strengths: Is an athletic lineman who can pass block with good leverage, allowing him to slide side to side to adjust to quick pass-rush moves. Has a thick lower body and excellent natural strength. Shows good awareness to pick up delayed blitzes. Seals his man out of the play on inside runs.
Weaknesses: Does not block with good technique consistently. Often reaches to maintain blocks, falling off and losing the block. For a lineman with his size, athleticism and strength, ends up on the ground too often.
Bottom line: Pouncey, a junior, could have helped his draft stock by returning to Florida and working on his technique. He has great physical tools and competitiveness to excel but must improve his technique.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Our experts see Maurkice Pouncey as a solid pass protector.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Maurkice Pouncey.
NFL position: C
Height: 6-4 1/2
Weight: 304
40 time: 5.27
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Matt Birk, Ravens
Strengths: Is an athletic lineman who can pass block with good leverage, allowing him to slide side to side to adjust to quick pass-rush moves. Has a thick lower body and excellent natural strength. Shows good awareness to pick up delayed blitzes. Seals his man out of the play on inside runs.
Weaknesses: Does not block with good technique consistently. Often reaches to maintain blocks, falling off and losing the block. For a lineman with his size, athleticism and strength, ends up on the ground too often.
Bottom line: Pouncey, a junior, could have helped his draft stock by returning to Florida and working on his technique. He has great physical tools and competitiveness to excel but must improve his technique.
For more than 665 player scouting reports from Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Jerry Hughes may have worked his way into the first round.
As NFL teams finish their draft meetings, here are some of the rumors floating around scouting circles:
• During the season, many scouts were impressed with TCU DE/OLB Jerry Hughes‘ competitiveness, quickness, and instincts. Many thought he would be a good third-round pick and possibly a second-rounder. However, most felt he lacked the overall athleticism and flexibility to stand up and play linebacker in the NFL.
Then after displaying excellent all-around athleticism at his pro day, Hughes convinced teams he could easily make the transition to 3-4 rush linebacker and began to rocket up draft boards. Now, he is expected to go in the mid-to-late first round or early second round.
• When East Carolina DT Linval Joseph came out early for the draft, many teams were surprised and did not know a lot about him. But after breaking down film, scouts were impressed. And now that coaches have gotten a good look at him on film, Joseph has been moving up draft boards.
He was originally expected to be a third-round pick who might slip to the fourth round, but now he is regarded as a surefire second-rounder who could move into the bottom of Round 1. From what we have heard, the Chargers could use their first-round pick (28th overall) or second-rounder (40th overall) to take Joseph and solidify their nose tackle position.
• Despite not being invited to the Scouting Combine, Tennessee QB Jonathan Crompton has been climbing draft boards. When most teams began their draft meetings, he was considered a late-round possibility or — more likely — an undrafted free agent. But as teams have broken down film on Crompton, they have been impressed with his quick, compact delivery, good footwork, athleticism and arm strength.
Though he won’t be drafted as highly as we have him rated — we consider him a first-round talent — we think he is a good bet to be drafted between the third and fifth rounds. Considering he wasn’t invited to Indy, that’s a big step up.
• Though Arizona State RB Dimitri Nance isn’t going to be a high draft pick, he has definitely grabbed the attention of some teams over the last month. They have been impressed with his strength, vision and instincts to find holes, quickness through the hole and consistent ability to gain yards after contact.
He hasn’t broken into the upper echelon of running backs, but he likely will be a fourth- or fifth-round pick, which is higher than his rating of a month ago.
• As NFL teams have debated the medical issues surrounding TEs Rob Gronkowski and Jermaine Gresham, one player who has been getting a lot of attention and climbing draft boards is Iowa TE Tony Moeaki. Although Moeaki had his own injury problems in college, the main questions about him involve durability, not potential career-limiting issues.
Teams have been impressed with Moeaki’s blocking ability and receiving skills, which have convinced them he has the makeup to be a good all-around starting tight end. Look for him to be drafted in the second or third round.
• Alabama CB Kareem Jackson has been moving up draft boards after working out so well at the Combine, but teams continue to debate his status. There is little doubt he is a quick, athletic cornerback with very good ball skills, but on film he showed only solid speed and allowed separation on deep routes.
Teams that are buying into his workout speed have him rated as a mid-to-high pick in the second round. Teams that are emphasizing the speed he showed in games rate him generally as a third-round prospect.
• When scouts made school visits last fall, they really liked Vanderbilt CB Myron Lewis and considered him a likely second- or third-round pick. However, he did not look smooth, quick or comfortable during his pro day workout, leaving teams concerned about his athleticism. As a result, his draft value has fallen.
Now, he is a likely fourth-round pick who could squeeze into the bottom of the third round.
Jerry Hughes may have worked his way into the first round.
As NFL teams finish their draft meetings, here are some of the rumors floating around scouting circles:
• During the season, many scouts were impressed with TCU DE/OLB Jerry Hughes‘ competitiveness, quickness, and instincts. Many thought he would be a good third-round pick and possibly a second-rounder. However, most felt he lacked the overall athleticism and flexibility to stand up and play linebacker in the NFL.
Then after displaying excellent all-around athleticism at his pro day, Hughes convinced teams he could easily make the transition to 3-4 rush linebacker and began to rocket up draft boards. Now, he is expected to go in the mid-to-late first round or early second round.
• When East Carolina DT Linval Joseph came out early for the draft, many teams were surprised and did not know a lot about him. But after breaking down film, scouts were impressed. And now that coaches have gotten a good look at him on film, Joseph has been moving up draft boards.
He was originally expected to be a third-round pick who might slip to the fourth round, but now he is regarded as a surefire second-rounder who could move into the bottom of Round 1. From what we have heard, the Chargers could use their first-round pick (28th overall) or second-rounder (40th overall) to take Joseph and solidify their nose tackle position.
• Despite not being invited to the Scouting Combine, Tennessee QB Jonathan Crompton has been climbing draft boards. When most teams began their draft meetings, he was considered a late-round possibility or — more likely — an undrafted free agent. But as teams have broken down film on Crompton, they have been impressed with his quick, compact delivery, good footwork, athleticism and arm strength.
Though he won’t be drafted as highly as we have him rated — we consider him a first-round talent — we think he is a good bet to be drafted between the third and fifth rounds. Considering he wasn’t invited to Indy, that’s a big step up.
• Though Arizona State RB Dimitri Nance isn’t going to be a high draft pick, he has definitely grabbed the attention of some teams over the last month. They have been impressed with his strength, vision and instincts to find holes, quickness through the hole and consistent ability to gain yards after contact.
He hasn’t broken into the upper echelon of running backs, but he likely will be a fourth- or fifth-round pick, which is higher than his rating of a month ago.
• As NFL teams have debated the medical issues surrounding TEs Rob Gronkowski and Jermaine Gresham, one player who has been getting a lot of attention and climbing draft boards is Iowa TE Tony Moeaki. Although Moeaki had his own injury problems in college, the main questions about him involve durability, not potential career-limiting issues.
Teams have been impressed with Moeaki’s blocking ability and receiving skills, which have convinced them he has the makeup to be a good all-around starting tight end. Look for him to be drafted in the second or third round.
• Alabama CB Kareem Jackson has been moving up draft boards after working out so well at the Combine, but teams continue to debate his status. There is little doubt he is a quick, athletic cornerback with very good ball skills, but on film he showed only solid speed and allowed separation on deep routes.
Teams that are buying into his workout speed have him rated as a mid-to-high pick in the second round. Teams that are emphasizing the speed he showed in games rate him generally as a third-round prospect.
• When scouts made school visits last fall, they really liked Vanderbilt CB Myron Lewis and considered him a likely second- or third-round pick. However, he did not look smooth, quick or comfortable during his pro day workout, leaving teams concerned about his athleticism. As a result, his draft value has fallen.
Now, he is a likely fourth-round pick who could squeeze into the bottom of the third round.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Ndamukong Suh.
NFL position: DT
Height: 6-3 7⁄8
Weight: 307
40 time: 5.10
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Richard Seymour, Raiders
Against the run: Is highly productive against runs both at him and to the outside. Has good strength and does a good job of getting hands on the blocker q u i c k l y. Locks out and presses b l o c k e r , sheds and makes the tackle on inside runs. Flashes the strength to jolt run blockers upright and backward to disrupt plays in the backfield. Can disengage and make tackles. Has quickness off the ball, hand use and strength to get inside reach blocks easily. Can keep the blocker on his shoulder, get down the line quickly and use his explosive closing burst to finish plays. Flashes rare hustle at times and, combined with elite speed, is able to easily chase down ballcarriers in pursuit. Grade: 9.0
Pass rush: Flashes the ability to be a good pass rusher but is not consistent. Has the strength to jolt and drive his opponent backward into the pocket; can force an early pass or get the sack. Can defeat one-onone pass blocks when he has space. Rushes upright and without leverage sometimes and does not attack the blocker; ends up having his initial pass-rush move stopped and can’t defeat blocker with a secondary pass-rush move. Grade: 7.5
Initial quickness: Is almost always the first defensive lineman moving at the snap but does not show the explosiveness off the ball to shoot through gap and get into backfield in a flash. Combines quickness off the ball with strength and excellent hand use to jolt and control his opponent on both run and pass plays. Is consistently able to make contact with blockers before they can get a hold of him, enabling him to defeat blocks and make plays despite not always creating good leverage. Could boost initial quickness to outstanding with improved technique and aggressiveness. Grade: 8.0
Run/pass recognition: Is naturally instinctive; consistently sniffs out the play quickly and can react and make plays based on his reads. Has good snap anticipation. Does a good job of reading the run away from him, gets inside attempted reach blocks and flies down the line to chase down the ballcarrier. Does a good job of reading the screen pass; gets outside fast and consistently makes the play. Grade: 8.5
Pursuit/tackling: Has a combination of instincts, competitiveness, athleticism, speed and explosive closing burst that enables him to consistently track down plays in pursuit. Has uncommon speed to chase after plays in pursuit. Closes quickly on the ballcarrier and finishes plays much better than most NFL defensive tackles. Gets upright when chasing after the ball in pursuit but has the athleticism and strength to get a hold of ballcarrier and take him to the ground. Is productive making plays in pursuit and does not miss tackles. Grade: 8.5
Bottom line: Suh is a wrecking ball who causes major problems for offenses. He is a step above the defensive tackles taken in the first round of the past several drafts, and he has the tools to be a highly productive starter. Though we believe Suh is best suited to playing tackle in a 4-3 scheme, he could be highly productive as an end in a 3-4. He is the top overall prospect in the draft.
For more than 600 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room has hundreds of player evaluations in preparation for the 2010 NFL draft. Here is a capsule look at prospect Ndamukong Suh.
NFL position: DT
Height: 6-3 7⁄8
Weight: 307
40 time: 5.10
Current projection: First-round pick
NFL comparison: Richard Seymour, Raiders
Against the run: Is highly productive against runs both at him and to the outside. Has good strength and does a good job of getting hands on the blocker q u i c k l y. Locks out and presses b l o c k e r , sheds and makes the tackle on inside runs. Flashes the strength to jolt run blockers upright and backward to disrupt plays in the backfield. Can disengage and make tackles. Has quickness off the ball, hand use and strength to get inside reach blocks easily. Can keep the blocker on his shoulder, get down the line quickly and use his explosive closing burst to finish plays. Flashes rare hustle at times and, combined with elite speed, is able to easily chase down ballcarriers in pursuit. Grade: 9.0
Pass rush: Flashes the ability to be a good pass rusher but is not consistent. Has the strength to jolt and drive his opponent backward into the pocket; can force an early pass or get the sack. Can defeat one-onone pass blocks when he has space. Rushes upright and without leverage sometimes and does not attack the blocker; ends up having his initial pass-rush move stopped and can’t defeat blocker with a secondary pass-rush move. Grade: 7.5
Initial quickness: Is almost always the first defensive lineman moving at the snap but does not show the explosiveness off the ball to shoot through gap and get into backfield in a flash. Combines quickness off the ball with strength and excellent hand use to jolt and control his opponent on both run and pass plays. Is consistently able to make contact with blockers before they can get a hold of him, enabling him to defeat blocks and make plays despite not always creating good leverage. Could boost initial quickness to outstanding with improved technique and aggressiveness. Grade: 8.0
Run/pass recognition: Is naturally instinctive; consistently sniffs out the play quickly and can react and make plays based on his reads. Has good snap anticipation. Does a good job of reading the run away from him, gets inside attempted reach blocks and flies down the line to chase down the ballcarrier. Does a good job of reading the screen pass; gets outside fast and consistently makes the play. Grade: 8.5
Pursuit/tackling: Has a combination of instincts, competitiveness, athleticism, speed and explosive closing burst that enables him to consistently track down plays in pursuit. Has uncommon speed to chase after plays in pursuit. Closes quickly on the ballcarrier and finishes plays much better than most NFL defensive tackles. Gets upright when chasing after the ball in pursuit but has the athleticism and strength to get a hold of ballcarrier and take him to the ground. Is productive making plays in pursuit and does not miss tackles. Grade: 8.5
Bottom line: Suh is a wrecking ball who causes major problems for offenses. He is a step above the defensive tackles taken in the first round of the past several drafts, and he has the tools to be a highly productive starter. Though we believe Suh is best suited to playing tackle in a 4-3 scheme, he could be highly productive as an end in a 3-4. He is the top overall prospect in the draft.
For more than 600 player scouting reports from Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts — plus updated mock draft, Super 99 rankings and more — go to warroom.sportingnews.com.
