2012 College Football / 2013 NFL Draft

[BINGO]

What are y'alls thoughts on Jarvis Jones? If he falls all the way to wherever the 49ers end up picking (due to his injury past and some other flaws some analysts see) would you want him or is he too much of a risk?

I'd draft him. We're one injury away (Aldon or Brooks) to being a mediocre defense. You can never have too many pass rushers on a team so I think he is worth the risk IMO.

If you can guarantee me that none of our defensive starters would get injured in 2013, I would say that our most pressing "need" on defense would be the NT position. Followed by cornerback. So when assessing the current draft, one can safely assume that the NT position is deeper than the conerback position. Therefore, I would draft a cornerback first and then focus on acquiring a space eating NT somewhere in the 3rd round.

 

[BINGO]

Five classes to remember
A trade, a risk, a surprise, a haul and a no-brainer highlight the best drafts
Originally Published: November 28, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger have made the 2004 draft one for the ages.

When picking the five top draft hauls of the last 10 drafts, the whole idea, the focus of a draft, is to select the important parts who will not only help you win but win Super Bowls.

Going back to 2003 and through 2012, there were a lot of intriguing draft classes I considered, such as the 2004 Arizona Cardinals with Darnell Dockett and Larry Fitzgerald. There were several intriguing individual picks in the last 10 years, and there were some drafts that had some good picks in the third through seventh rounds.

But if you're asking me for the best classes, I strongly favored the classes that were the most important and most integral to accomplishing the ultimate goal, which is to win a Super Bowl.

Here, in chronological order, are my picks to represent the five best draft classes of the last 10 years:


2004 New York Giants

Technically, their first overall pick was Philip Rivers, but Giants GM Ernie Accorsi came through with his legacy draft. Trading Rivers to San Diego for Eli Manning solidified that legacy.

Eli, as you know, has been the MVP of two Super Bowl wins (XLII and XLVI), both against the New England Patriots. Chris Snee was a three-time Pro Bowl choice and played in their two Super Bowl wins. Torbor and Wilson were also part of the Giants' first Super Bowl win against the Patriots.

Overall it was a solid class, but there was all that drama surrounding the Rivers-Manning deal at the time. It was critical that they got that deal done.

2004 NEW YORK GIANTS
GM: Ernie Accorsi. Notes: Two players in this draft class, Manning and Snee, have won two Super Bowls (XLII and XLVI).

Round Pick Overall Player Pos.
1 4 4 Philip Rivers QB
2 2 34 Chris Snee G
4 1 97 Reggie Torbor LB
5 4 136 Gibril Wilson DB
6 3 168 Jamaar Taylor WR
7 2 203 Andrew Strojny OT
7 52 253 Isaac Hilton DE



2004 Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers pulled the trigger on Ben Roethlisberger in that class with the No. 11 overall pick. They also found Max Starks. He's not the best tackle, but they've won two Super Bowls (XL and XLIII) with him and he's still in the league. Also, Ricardo Colclough contributed to that first Super Bowl-winning team. That makes three players from this draft to win a Super Bowl.

The rest of the class is pedestrian, but the results from their top three picks were outstanding.

2004 PITTSBURGH STEELERS
GM: Kevin Colbert. Notes: Roethlisberger and Starks have played on the Steelers' two most recent Super Bowl winners and have played in three Super Bowls overall.

Round Pick Over. Player Pos.
1 11 11 Ben Roethlisberger QB
2 6 38 Ricardo Colclough DB
3 12 75 Max Starks OT
5 13 145 Nathaniel Adibi DE
6 12 177 Bo Lacy OT
6 29 194 Matt Kranchick TE
6 32 197 Drew Caylor C
7 11 212 Eric Taylor DT



2005 Green Bay Packers

The one reason I have this here is that the Packers and GM Ted Thompson had the foresight to draft Aaron Rodgers when they had Brett Favre.

The Packers had more pressing needs at the time. And it was a risk in the sense that they had Favre and a Super Bowl-contending team. They needed a pass-rusher and there were other spots they could have shored up. Instead, they had the vision to look down the road.

And it's not so much the risk of the Rodgers pick not panning outt, it was the risk of not using that pick on a player who could help them as the window was closing on Favre.

To use a current example, it would be like the Patriots taking a quarterback in the first round of the 2013 draft when they could really use a defensive player.

2005 GREEN BAY PACKERS
GM: Ted Thompson. Notes: Rodgers was MVP of Super Bowl XLV and MVP of the NFL for the 2011 season

Round Pick Over. Player Pos.
1 24 24 Aaron Rodgers QB
2 19 51 Nick Collins DB
2 26 58 Terrence Murphy WR
4 14 115 Marviel Underwood DB
4 24 125 Brady Poppinga LB



2007 San Francisco 49ers

This is just a really good draft, and it's the foundation of what has become one of the most complete teams in the league. This draft has the 49ers in position to win a Super Bowl in the next two or three years. They have a lot of the parts to make a run.

Patrick Willis has been one of the premier defensive players in the league since. Joe Staley, Ray McDonald, Dashon Goldson, Tarell Brown are still with the team and all still starters. From top to bottom, for a team that's been to an NFC Championship Game, the foundation was built with this draft. The leadership on this team comes from this draft, especially Willis.

2007 SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
GM: Scot McCloughan. Notes: The core of this draft went to the NFC title game in 2011 and five of them are currently starters in 2012

Round Pick Over. Player Pos.
1 11 11 Patrick Willis LB
1 28 28 Joe Staley OT
3 12 76 Jason Hill WR
3 33 97 Ray McDonald DE
4 5 104 Jay Moore LB
4 27 126 Dashon Goldson DB
4 36 135 Joe Cohen DT
5 10 147 Tarell Brown DB
6 12 186 Thomas Clayton RB



2012 Indianapolis Colts

Just to mix it up, when you look back, the Colts could have taken Robert Griffin III, and maybe RG3 will pan out to be the better pick. But I think Andrew Luck will be the right pick when all is said and done. We've already seen the turnaround of this organization, in large part because of Luck.

There are also a lot of guys from this class who have already shown a lot of promise. Maybe they've been able to show what they can do because the Colts didn't have much on their roster, but they've stepped up. You can see a nice rapport between T.Y. Hilton and Luck. The two tight ends, Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen, will become an integral part of their offense.

And then LaVon Brazill has shown some things. We thought he was a good pick, and liked him when he came out.

2012 INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
GM: Ryan Grigson. Notes: Picked to finish near the bottom of the AFC for 2012, the Colts would be the fifth seed in the postseason if the season ended today.

Round Pick Over. Player Pos.
1 1 1 Andrew Luck QB
2 2 34 Coby Fleener TE
3 1 64 Dwayne Allen TE
3 29 92 T.Y. Hilton WR
5 1 136 Josh Chapman DT
5 35 170 Vick Ballard RB
6 36 206 LaVon Brazill WR
7 1 208 Justin Anderson G
7 7 214 Tim Fugger DE

Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.

 

[clyde_carbon]

Cal WR Keenan Allen has declared.

EXPECTED TO ENTER/ENTERING THE DRAFT:
QB Tyler Bray, Tennessee

RB Cierre Wood, Notre Dame

WR Keenan Allen, California
WR Stedman Bailey, WVU
WR Justin Hunter, Tennessee
WR Da'Rick Rogers, Tennessee Tech
WR Marquess Wilson, Washington St.

DE Brandon Jenkins, Florida St.

CB David Amerson, North Carolina St.
CB Tyrann Mathieu, LSU

RETURNING TO SCHOOL:
QB Logan Thomas, Virginia

WR Devin Street, Pittsburgh

DT Aaron Donald, Pittsburgh

 

[clyde_carbon]

Speaking of Cal, I can't believe they didn't hire Mike MacIntyre. I know he had an interview and maybe he just wasn't a good fit, but Sonny Dykes is the alternative? If you're gonna go small school, why not go with the local product who beat Dykes this year? I think Cal is gonna regret this.

 

[Yoshi]

Speaking of Cal, I can't believe they didn't hire Mike MacIntyre. I know he had an interview and maybe he just wasn't a good fit, but Sonny Dykes is the alternative? If you're gonna go small school, why not go with the local product who beat Dykes this year? I think Cal is gonna regret this.

Possibly, but that's not for certain - actually Dykes was rumored to go to other, bigger schools. I know Cal interviewed MacIntyre, but I'm not surprised he wasn't hired. Where I'm concerned is the defense - a high powered offense but what about Cal stopping other teams?

McIntyre will have SJSU return a lot of players next year, so if he's able to repeat what he did next year, he could go to another more established program.

 

[BINGO]

NFL Draft 2013
Commentary
Pair of big names on the rise
Injury drops fast-rising DE, while TE class gets boost
Originally Published: December 5, 2012
By Todd McShay | Scouts Inc.

The regular season has ended for the top prospects in the 2013 NFL draft class, so it's time to take a breath and look back at what we've seen over the past few weeks.

The impact of a recent injury stands out right away, with rising Florida State DE Cornellius Carradine falling down the board after suffering a torn ACL in his team's season finale. Meanwhile, fellow DE Dion Jordan of Oregon has dealt with a nagging shoulder injury but has still inched his way into the top 15.

Further down the board, Notre Dame TE Tyler Eifert gives his position group a boost by cracking the rankings for the first time.

Elsewhere, the board is still without a running back. No wide receivers or quarterbacks are inside the top 20, and the only offensive players in the top 10 are linemen.

Here is a look at the entire list, with draft-eligible non-seniors noted with an asterisk:

 

[BINGO]

1. Star Lotulelei DT 6-3 320
Analysis: Lotulelei is the most complete defensive lineman in the class in terms of physical tools. He dominates interior offensive linemen with his blend of quickness and power. He shows strong hands, nimble feet and the ability to quickly discard blockers, and he has impressive lateral range. Lotulelei needs some polish as a pass-rusher, but his natural gifts are clearly a cut above.
Previously: 2

2. Jarvis Jones* OLB 6-2 242
Analysis: Jones is a steady performer on a defense loaded with NFL prospects. He is a good overall athlete and top-notch pass-rusher, has impressive range in pass coverage and against the run, and can line up all over the defensive formation. Durability concerns are behind him, and Jones has locked down a spot in the first few picks.
Previously: 1

3. Damontre Moore* DE 6-4 248
Analysis: He is a versatile prospect who can play outside linebacker in a 3-4, right or left end in a 4-3 and even move inside to rush the passer from the interior. Moore is quick and fluid as a pass-rusher, is able to hold up against the run and plays hard.
Previously: 5

4. Chance Warmack OG 6-2\ 325
Analysis: Warmack is a big, strong, nasty lineman with good smarts and athleticism. He shows awareness, is an easy mover in pass protection and has power as a run-blocker. The best guard I've evaluated in the past decade, Warmack is the rare interior lineman worthy of a top-10 overall pick.
Previously: 3

5. Manti Te'o ILB 6-1 248
Analysis: Te'o moves well in space for a player his size, displaying range and playmaking skills in underneath coverage and the ability to hold the point and deliver blows as a run-defender. He is a three-down linebacker with the kind of intangibles that teams seek in their defensive leaders.
Previously: 4

6. Luke Joeckel* OT 6-5¾ 306
Analysis: Joeckel has fared well against the likes of Alabama and LSU this season. His balance and ability to recover in pass protection stand out, and he takes good angles and is able to get to the second level in the run game.
Previously: 6

7. Barkevious Mingo* DE 6-5 240
Analysis: Mingo's production has not been as high as expected, but he has still been disruptive. His long frame, elite first step and outstanding speed for his size make him a major weapon off the edge. He also has great range and closing burst against the run, and shows plenty of upside.
Previously: 7

8. Johnathan Hankins* DT 6-3 335
Analysis: Hankins shows the size and strength to occupy multiple blockers against the run and doesn't back down at the point of attack. He can make plays with his effort as a pass-rusher.
Previously: 8

9. Sylvester Williams DT 6-2 320
Analysis: Williams dominated Virginia recently and is playing faster than ever after shedding weight and getting fully healthy. He shows the power to press blockers into the backfield, pop at the point of attack as a tackler, and instincts and quick hands to get off blocks.
Previously: 9

10 Bjoern Werner* DE 6-4 255
Analysis: Werner burst on the scene early in the season with improved pass-rush skills that complement his ability to set the edge against the run. His production has tailed off in recent weeks, but Werner's quickness and strong hands are impressive, and he can convert speed to power when rushing the passer.
Previously: 10

11. Jonathan Cooper OG 6-3 320
Analysis: Cooper's quickness, mobility, explosive power, good feet and balance all jump out on film. He has good awareness in pass protection and plays with an edge overall. Cooper is making a solid case as an early-first-round pick.
Previously: 11

12. Dee Milliner* CB 6-0¾ 197
Analysis: Milliner's instincts, recognition skills and discipline stand out, and he is reliable in run support. His overall game, including good top-end speed and short-area quickness, makes him the top-rated corner on the board.
Previously: 12

13. Johnathan Jenkins DT 6-4⅛ 363
Analysis: A massive two-gap nose tackle with a good combination of size, strength and short-area quickness to control the inside and occasionally contribute as a pass-rusher. Jenkins' range is limited, though.
Previously: 13

14. Dion Jordan DE 6-6⅛ 239
Analysis: Jordan has dealt with a nagging shoulder injury in recent weeks, but he is long and athletic and has explosive upper-body power despite his lean frame. He can rush the passer from a two- or three-point stance, holds up in space and has the versatility to play multiple roles along the front seven.
Previously: 17

15. Taylor Lewan* OT 6-7 302
Analysis: Lewan is continuing to use his length effectively while protecting the edge. He flashes the ability to drive defenders off the ball as a run-blocker and is a tenacious player who gets under the skin of defenders.
Previously: 14

16. Sam Montgomery* DE 6-4 245
Analysis: Montgomery is not as athletic as Mingo, but his power as a pass-rusher stands out, and he holds the point well against the run.
Previously: 15

 

[BINGO]

17. Kenny Vaccaro S 6-0½ 210
Analysis: Vaccaro has rare movement skills for a safety, showing balance, explosiveness and the ability to flip his hips and run with receivers. He has good instincts and solid ball skills in coverage.
Previously: 18

18. Alec Ogletree* ILB 6-3 237
Analysis: Ogletree is a raw prospect in terms of instincts, but he is a freakish athlete who chases plays from sideline to sideline and shows good potential as a pass-rusher. He needs to get more stout at the point of attack, though, and durability could be an issue.
Previously: 16

19. Corey Lemonier* DE 6-4 242
Analysis: Lemonier has continued to play at a high level despite clearly being the best player on his defense and getting extra attention from opposing offenses. He has an explosive first step and shows impressive closing burst, holds up well against the run and plays with a relentless motor.
Previously: 19

20. Eric Fisher OT 6-7⅛ 297
Analysis: Fisher has impressive length, is light on his feet and plays with balance when protecting the edge. He shows good footwork and the ability to hit moving targets when pulling, and appears to have the power to create movement at the point of attack.
Previously: 20

21. Ezekiel Ansah* DE 6-6 273
Analysis: Ansah has limited football experience but surprising versatility and instincts. He has lined up at nose tackle, five-technique DE and outside linebacker in BYU's 3-4 scheme, and his hand use and gap discipline are improving steadily. His rare combination of size, speed and natural athleticism are evident. He closes like a cheetah, has a 39-inch vertical jump and ran for the BYU track team in addition to trying out for the basketball team. Ansah is a raw prospect, but teams are taking notice of his skill set, athleticism and production.
Previously: 21

22. Geno Smith QB 6-2¾ 208
Analysis: Smith's stock has taken a hit in recent weeks because of inconsistency and some poor decisions. When he's at his best, though, Smith's confidence, footwork and mechanics all stand out, and that's what puts him atop this year's quarterback class.
Previously: 22

23. Sheldon Richardson DT 6-2⅞ 290
Analysis: Another prospect who is clearly the best on his unit and continues to play hard despite his team's overall struggles. Richardson can penetrate with a quick first step and has excellent straight-line speed, good range and power as a bull rusher.
Previously: 23

24. Justin Hunter* WR 6-4 205
Analysis: Hunter's smooth routes and body control on tape earned him a top-10 grade going into the season, but his production hasn't matched his potential and he has had some key drops. He remains the top receiver on the board, though, thanks to his size and overall physical tools.
Previously: 24

25. Cornellius Carradine DE 6-4½ 255
Analysis: Carradine was one of the fastest-rising prospects in the nation before tearing an ACL in the regular-season finale against Florida, and until there is more news on his recovery, his grade will remain on the fringe of the first round. Before the injury, he was displaying explosive upper-body power and the flexibility to bend the edge as a pass-rusher and the flexibility. Carradine can lock out blockers as a run-defender and play on either end of a four-man front.
Previously: 13

26. Kawann Short DT 6-3⅛ 325
Analysis: Short has been more consistent, shown better effort and played with explosiveness in 2012. He can penetrate and disrupt along the interior, giving himself a chance to be in the first-round mix.
Previously: 25

27. Matt Barkley QB 6-1⅞ 228
Analysis: Barkley is on the shelf with a shoulder injury, but before being hurt, his lack of elite size and physical tools were showing up more frequently. He made some ill-advised throws in the face of pressure, but overall he is a smart, accurate passer who can handle the blitz, and his ability to throw in rhythm would fit well in a West Coast offense.
Previously: 26

28. Keenan Allen* WR 6-3 206
Analysis: Allen has continued to produce as his team has struggled. He has a good combination of size and speed, excellent hands and solid body control. He lacks the elite speed to run past NFL defenders, but his size and strength allow him to win one-on-one battles down the field.
Previously: 27

29. Dallas Thomas OT 6-5⅛ 297
Analysis: Thomas needs to improve his overall awareness, but he fared well against early-round Alabama DT Jesse Williams earlier in the season. He has the versatility to line up at tackle or guard and possesses the size and strength to be effective in tight quarters.
Previously: 28

30. Zach Ertz* TE 6-6 249
Analysis: Ertz showed off his ball skills and body control in the Cardinal's upset win over Oregon, coming down with a jump ball in the back of the end zone for the game-tying touchdown late in regulation. He's a solid route-runner who can create mismatches with his size and separate from coverage, shows speed to stretch the seam and is an effective wall-off blocker.
Previously: 29

31. Johnthan Banks CB 6-2⅛ 185
Analysis: A tall corner with good length, Banks has quick feet and is at his best in press coverage. He flashes good ball skills and some punt-return ability, and he is active and willing in run support.
Previously: 30

32. Tyler Eifert* TE 6-6 250
Analysis: Eifert is adequate as a blocker, but he is an impact player in Notre Dame's passing game. His ball skills and body control allow him to catch passes without breaking stride and also pluck throws outside his frame. Eifert has the speed to work the seam and the competitiveness to go over the middle.
Previously: NR

Out of the rankings: West Virginia WR Tavon Austin


Todd McShay is the director of college scouting for Scouts Inc. He has been evaluating prospects for the NFL draft since 1998.

 

[BINGO]

Big Board: NFL prospect rankings
Jarvis Jones didn't get a win Saturday, but he's still the No. 1 prospect today
Originally Published: December 5, 2012
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider

Dale Zanine/USA TODAY Sports
Minus Alec Ogletree, Georgia doesn't play Bama as close as they did on Saturday.

There weren't significant changes on the Big Board this week. Regardless of how you felt about the outcome of the SEC championship game, I think the prospects you see here pretty clearly showed why they belong. Like last week, I also have the top two QBs in the class just barely hanging on. At this juncture, there's no guarantee we'll see a QB taken early.

Remember, as you read below, the scouting perspective will remain similar week to week, but I'll note performance and matchup highlights. Juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.


1 Jarvis Jones *
AGE: 23 DOB: 10/13/89 HT: 6-3 WT: 241
POS: OLB Tkl 77 Sack 12.5 Int 1
Drew a ton of blocking attention against Bama, and was slowed because Bama simply ran the ball all day, but still had 2.0 sacks and 3 TFL. Typical Jones. Explosive, disciplined, relentless edge rusher who profiles as a 3-4 OLB and doesn't need to come off the field. A quick first step, violent hands, tackles well and closes fast. Solid against the run and can really cover.
LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD


2 Manti Te'o
AGE: 21 DOB: 1/26/91 HT: 6-2 WT: 255
POS: LB Tkl 103 Sack 1.5 Int 7
The Bama game will be a showcase, but Te'o's reel is already full. Has exceptional instincts, a ton of experience and the ability to read the game. Can attack the backfield. Te'o is a big, strong, prepared tackling presence in the middle of the field. With off-the-charts intangibles, he is the future leader of an NFL defense.
LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD


3 Star Lotulelei
AGE: 22 DOB: 12/20/89 HT: 6-4 WT: 325
POS: DT Tkl 42 Sack 5.0 Int 0
Ready to be an impact NFL DT now. Consistently at the center of what opposing offenses must work around, he absorbs so much blocking help and frees others up. Clogs the middle of the field but creates his own push. A great sense for disrupting the run game. Quick off the ball with great upper- and lower-body strength. Coaches rave.
LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD


4 Damontre Moore *
AGE: 20 DOB: 9/11/92 HT: 6-4 WT: 248
POS: DE Tkl 80 Sack 12.5 Int 0
A great season in terms of growth and impact. Consistent performer. The versatile Moore has adjusted well to playing as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. Excels as a pass-rusher, able to dip hips, turn the corner and use quickness and length to bother tackles.
LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD


5 Luke Joeckel *
AGE: 21 DOB: 11/6/91 HT: 6-6 WT: 310
POS: OT GP 12 GS 12
The Kevin Sumlin offense will produce points and stars, but Joeckel will be tough to replace. He just eliminates good pass-rushers; there's very little to not like. He has a lot of experience, starting on the left since his freshman season. Best in pass protection and won't get rattled by speed or secondary moves. Not an elite athlete but moves really well.
LAST WEEK: 5 | PLAYER CARD

6 Barkevious Mingo *
AGE: 22 DOB: 10/4/90 HT: 6-5 WT: 242
POS: DE Tkl 33 Sack 4.0 Int 0
Mingo is just so gifted athletically that he survives without taking on blocks. Leverage was an issue all year, and there's a little boom-or-bust feel with him right now. Uses length and a great first step to turn the corner. His pass-rush skills could be diversified. Still learning.
LAST WEEK: 6 | PLAYER CARD

7 Chance Warmack
AGE: 21 DOB: 9/14/91 HT: 6-3 WT: 320
POS: OG GP 13 GS 13
Dominated on the interior against Georgia. Warmack is the best lineman on his team, which says a lot. Takes defenders where he wants them to go. A powerful run-blocker, Warmack isn't just massive, but he also moves well, with initial power in tight spaces and the ability to seek out LBs on the second level.
LAST WEEK: 7 | PLAYER CARD

8 Bjoern Werner *
AGE: 22 DOB: 9/30/90 HT: 6-4 WT: 255
POS: DE Tkl 40 Sack 13.0 Int 0
Numbers really do show how good he was, and he always has hands in passing lanes. Werner finds a way to disrupt, either as a rusher or by constantly knocking down passes. Reads the game really well, which isn't easy to do when you play so fast. Strong but athletic, he has great ball awareness as he rushes.
LAST WEEK: 8 | PLAYER CARD

9 Alec Ogletree *
AGE: 21 DOB: 9/25/91 HT: 6-3 WT: 232
POS: LB Tkl 98 Sack 2.0 Int 1
Maybe the best player on the field in the Bama-UGA game in terms of performance. Great instincts, and flies to the ball all over the field. He missed the first four games but still has 11 more tackles than anyone on the team. Able to attack gaps against the run, stretches wide and moves well in coverage. Reads passers well. Behind only Te'o as interior linebacker.
LAST WEEK: 10 | PLAYER CARD

10 Anthony Barr *
AGE: 20 DOB: 3/18/92 HT: 6-4 WT: 235
POS: LB Tkl 73 Sack 13.0 Int 0
A revelation this season, his stock is soaring. Was a running back, but move has been a home run -- Barr has found his calling. A devastating pass-rusher, he has great quickness off the edge, gets good lean and can really dip his hips and gain leverage. Rising star.
LAST WEEK: 13 | PLAYER CARD

11 Cordarrelle Patterson *
AGE: 21 DOB: 3/17/91 HT: 6-3 WT: 205
POS: WR Rec 46 Yds 778 Avg 16.9 TD 5
Faces an interesting decision: he could be the top wideout available when all is said and done but could also return to UT after just one year there. Great size and leaping ability, strong hands, with explosiveness as a runner with the ball in his hands. Can go up and get it. Helps his QB. Ceiling of a very good No. 1.
LAST WEEK: 11 | PLAYER CARD

12 Sheldon Richardson *
AGE: 21 HT: 6-4 WT: 295
POS: DT Tkl 75 Sack 4.0 Int 0
Evaluators are raving, and the tape backs it up. Love his effort level and potential to fit in any scheme. He is quick, uses his hands and will battle rather than just swimming and running around blocks. He's a penetrator who plays physical and piles up tackles. Locates the ball and the passer well.
LAST WEEK: 14 | PLAYER CARD

13 Taylor Lewan *
AGE: 21DOB: 7/21/91HT: 6-8WT: 302POS: OTGP 12GS 12An injury to OSU's John Simon deprived us of a good matchup Saturday. Lewan pass-blocked extremely well once again. Elite athleticism for the position. Has great length and the ability to really move. Could get more credit for his power as a run-blocker, as his long frame probably gets him typecast as a pass-blocker first.
LAST WEEK: 9 | PLAYER CARD

14 Dee Milliner *
AGE: 21 DOB: 9/14/91 HT: 6-1 WT: 199
POS: CB Tkl 51 Sack 1.5 Int 2
Really the pillar in the secondary for Bama, QBs rarely go his way. Milliner's raw football skills are exceptional. His physical prowess is a step above other corners. He hits receivers and isn't shy in run support, but with that, he is fluid, reads the game well and can turn and run with wideouts. High floor.
LAST WEEK: 15 | PLAYER CARD

 

[BINGO]

15 Jonathan Cooper
AGE: 22 DOB: 1/9/90 HT: 6-3 WT: 302
POS: G GP 12 GS 12
A very successful season for Cooper after summer surgery. Experienced, he's started his redshirt freshman season. Doesn't miss blocks, hits moving targets and has a great punch. Cooper is powerful and quick for his size and dictates matchups. Moves extremely well, particularly in tight spaces, allowing him to beat defenders to spots, move them to a side and get downfield.
LAST WEEK: 12 | PLAYER CARD

16 Eric Fisher
AGE: 21 DOB: 1/5/91 HT: 6-8 WT: 305
POS: OT GP 12 GS 12
One of the great sleepers of the draft. Extremely long and uses his length really well. When he gets in a wide base, it can take a while to get around him. He often can make it look easy in the MAC but also looked great when Central Michigan faced top competition and really isn't a newcomer for scouts.
LAST WEEK: 21 | PLAYER CARD

17 Johnathan Hankins *
AGE: 21 HT: 6-3 WT: 335
POS: DT Tkl 5 5 Sack 1.0 Int 0
Has dipped for a little just because he runs hot and cold still in terms of impact. Just 4.0 TFL in 2012 will lead to questions about his explosiveness and ability to penetrate, but Hankins isn't much of a pass-rusher. He is really hard to move, flows well down the line and eats up blocks, and linebackers benefit.
LAST WEEK: 16 | PLAYER CARD

18 Tyler Eifert *
AGE: 22 DOB: 9/8/90 HT: 6-6 WT: 251
POS: TE Rec 44 Yds 624 Avg 14.2 TD 4
Well, the spotlight is officially on. Can Eifert be the offensive difference against Bama? He's maybe the one clear offensive matchup edge ND has headed into the BCS game. Has pass-catching skills of a natural receiver and can be split out. Eifert is a former WR, catches the ball with ease and can stretch the seams, but he's not an exceptional blocker. Top TE in a light class.
LAST WEEK: 17 | PLAYER CARD

19 John Jenkins
AGE: 23 DOB: 7/11/89 HT: 6-3 WT: 358
POS: DT Tkl 50 Sack 1.0 Int 0
Battled against Bama, but double-teams made life tough for him. Won't always jump off the screen when you roll tape but is steady and can't be effectively blocked by one guy. Jenkins opens up space for linebackers to attack and can occasionally push the pocket. He is an underrated athlete.
LAST WEEK: 18 | PLAYER CARD

20 Kenny Vaccaro
AGE: 21 DOB: 2/15/91 HT: 6-1 WT: 218
POS: S Tkl 92 Sack 0 Int 2
Likely the first safety drafted, Vaccaro has managed to shine even as Texas has struggled. Adept in coverage and against the run, he has the size to attack the line of scrimmage like an extra linebacker but can line up in coverage inside or out wide and hold his own. Makes good reads and big plays.
LAST WEEK: 20 | PLAYER CARD

21 Sam Montgomery *
AGE: 22 DOB: 5/25/90 HT: 6-4 WT: 260
POS: DE Tkl 32 Sack 7.0 Int 0
LSU's most effective DE, he's been a more productive player than Mingo, but ceiling probably isn't as high. Love his motor, he is a fit in almost any system, and his range of skills is improved with added bulk, which helps him against the run. Max-effort player who profiles better for a 4-3 scheme.
LAST WEEK: 19 | PLAYER CARD

22 Khaseem Greene
AGE: 23 DOB: 2/4/89 HT: 6-1 WT: 231
POS: LB Tkl 125 Sack 5.5 Int 2
New-breed linebacker, like a Lavonte David -- he's smaller but is all over the place. Always, always around the ball in what's been a monster season. Greene seems to play at a different speed than everybody else because he is diagnosing plays early and then explodes to the ball. Has 38 more tackles than anyone else on his team.
LAST WEEK: 22 | PLAYER CARD

23 Sharrif Floyd *
AGE: 20 DOB: 5/28/92 HT: 6-3 WT: 303
POS: DT Tkl 41 Sack 1.0 Int 0
A true junior, he's dealt with a position switch and that may have slowed him early, but he led the Gators D in TFL, so he's creating problems for offenses. A star coming out of high school, Floyd has quickness for his size and has a powerful lower half to drive blockers. Still needs to sharpen pass-rush skills.
LAST WEEK: 23 | PLAYER CARD

24 Matt Barkley
AGE: 22 DOB: 9/8/90 HT: 6-2 WT: 224
POS: QB Comp 246 Att 387 Pct 63.6 Yds 3,273 TD 36 Int 15
We'll get to see Barkley one more time, it appears. Would have gone higher in 2012. Scouts will be concerned with the decision-making. Better competition has hurt Barkley this season. He's still very good across the board: ball placement, timing, use of his eyes, poise, leadership skills and experience.
LAST WEEK: 24 | PLAYER CARD

25 Geno Smith
AGE: 22 DOB: 10/10/90 HT: 6-3 WT: 220
POS: QB Comp 349 Att 489 Pct 71.4 Yds 4,001 TD 40 Int 6
Now with three years as a starter in which he never completed fewer than 64.8 percent of his throws and has never been prone to INTs. He's smart, accurate and patient -- a pocket passer who can move but keeps his eyes downfield, hits targets short, will read defenses and move defenders for deep balls. Has exceptional ball placement.
LAST WEEK: 25 | PLAYER CARD


Mel Kiper Jr.
Football analyst

 

[CalamityX11]

crazy, not one RB in these top boards... Lattimore was the only one had he been healthy.

 

[BINGO]

crazy, not one RB in these top boards... Lattimore was the only one had he been healthy.

I'm not surprised by that. I wouldn't be surprise as well if on draft day we witness that the 1st receiver to be taken off the board would not be selected until the early 30s. At the same time I can see someone like Patterson going in the top 10.

 

[Yoshi]

Cal Football: Sonny Dykes Interview with CalBears.com - YouTube

Sonny Dykes after his 45 minute interview with the Bay Area media - Cal's new head coach.

 

[Yoshi]

The actual interview:

 

[BINGO]

Calamati, this article might be of interest to you based on what we spoke about yesterday:


NFL Draft Blog
Is there a first-rounder in the RB class?
December, 6, 2012 4:50PM ET
By Steve Muench


The 2013 NFL draft could be a historic one for running backs, and not in a good way.

At least one running back has been taken in the first round every year since the AFL and NFL drafts merged in 1967, but that streak appears to be in serious jeopardy.

It's still possible that a back could shoot up the board during the pre-draft evaluation process or a team could reach for a back in the draft, but it's not looking good based on the current situation.

South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore was squarely in the first-round mix before suffering a gruesome, season-ending knee injury, and the next two backs on the board are underclassmen who carry late-second-round grades. They could decide to stay in school with the hope of boosting their stock next season.

What exactly is keeping this year's top prospects out of the first-round discussion? Let's take a look, but let's remember that a back doesn't have to be a first-rounder to make an impact at the next level. Just ask Washington Redskins rookie Alfred Morris, a sixth-round pick who is tied for third in the league with 1,106 rushing yards through Week 13.

Giovani Bernard is the No. 1 back on the board, but he is not necessarily a first-rounder.

North Carolina's Giovani Bernard (Grade: 82)
The biggest concern with Bernard is his ability to handle a heavy workload and stay healthy over the course of a grueling NFL season. He has just average size (5-foot-10, 205 pounds) and tore an ACL in the fall of 2009. Bernard has some wear on his tires, averaging more than 18 carries per game the past two seasons and taking more hits as a receiver and punt returner.

However, he is atop our running back board because of his versatility. Bernard is quick, shifty and instinctive as a runner, making the most of his blocks and flashing the ability to create even when he doesn't get a defined seam. His size will hinder his ability to anchor in pass protection, but Bernard is an effective receiver who catches the ball well and produces after the catch. Finally, he has the burst and vision to make an impact on punt returns.


Michigan State's Le'veon Bell (Grade: 80)
Bell checks in at 6-2 and 242 pounds, and he has to prove to scouts he is quick enough to be productive at the NFL level. Backs his size can succeed in the NFL -- just look at Atlanta's 244-pound Michael Turner -- but Bell's burst will be closely monitored during pre-draft workouts.

Still, Bell's size means he is tough to bring down. He can bounce off or power through would-be tacklers, and there's a lot to like about Bell's ability to exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside when necessary. It's his third-down ability that makes him an intriguing Day 2 prospect, though.

His size allows him to hold up well in pass protection, and he is an above average route-runner for his size with 76 career catches and the ability to line up in the slot at times.


Wisconsin's Montee Ball (Grade: 77)Experience is a valued asset in most job interviews, but not for running backs, who have short NFL shelf lives.

Ball has 900 career carries at Wisconsin, and his decision not to enter the 2012 draft will likely end up hurting his stock in 2013. He has stayed healthy for the most part, but that is a lot of pounding. Teams will also closely evaluate the concussion Ball sustained in an off-field incident.

Still, he is one of the most efficient runners in the country, with above average instincts, the discipline to follow blocks and the ability to get vertical as soon as he locates a seam. At 5-11 and 210 pounds, Ball doesn't have elite power, but he runs hard and picks up yards after contact. He is quicker than fast but has enough burst to rip off chunks of yardage when he gets a seam.


Clemson's Andre Ellington (Grade: 75)
Ellington is an undersized back (5-9⅜, 195) who has had problems staying healthy and doesn't have the power to push the pile in short-yardage situations. There are also concerns about his vision and anticipation.

However, after watching several tapes and seeing him play in person at Boston College this season, one word comes to mind: effort. Ellington may be small, but he has above average balance and is always fighting for yards after contact. He is fast enough to make defenses pay when he hits a seam out of the backfield, after the catch or returning kickoffs.



Oregon's Kenjon Barner (Grade: 74)
He is also on the smaller side (5-9⅛, 186) for a running back prospect, doesn't show great power between the tackles and has been nicked up at times. The reason Ellington grades slightly higher is that Barner is slightly smaller and has had ball-security issues.

Barner is at his best in space, and it's not just about his shiftiness or above average top-end speed. He shows above average instincts in terms of recognizing where pursuit is coming from and makes the most of his open-field blocks. He is never going to be a great pass-blocker who can anchor against blitzing linebackers, but Barner is an above average receiver for the position.

Steve Muench
Scouts Inc.

 

[CalamityX11]

Calamati, this article might be of interest to you based on what we spoke about yesterday:


NFL Draft Blog
Is there a first-rounder in the RB class?
December, 6, 2012 4:50PM ET
By Steve Muench


The 2013 NFL draft could be a historic one for running backs, and not in a good way.

At least one running back has been taken in the first round every year since the AFL and NFL drafts merged in 1967, but that streak appears to be in serious jeopardy.

It's still possible that a back could shoot up the board during the pre-draft evaluation process or a team could reach for a back in the draft, but it's not looking good based on the current situation.

South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore was squarely in the first-round mix before suffering a gruesome, season-ending knee injury, and the next two backs on the board are underclassmen who carry late-second-round grades. They could decide to stay in school with the hope of boosting their stock next season.

What exactly is keeping this year's top prospects out of the first-round discussion? Let's take a look, but let's remember that a back doesn't have to be a first-rounder to make an impact at the next level. Just ask Washington Redskins rookie Alfred Morris, a sixth-round pick who is tied for third in the league with 1,106 rushing yards through Week 13.

Giovani Bernard is the No. 1 back on the board, but he is not necessarily a first-rounder.

North Carolina's Giovani Bernard (Grade: 82)
The biggest concern with Bernard is his ability to handle a heavy workload and stay healthy over the course of a grueling NFL season. He has just average size (5-foot-10, 205 pounds) and tore an ACL in the fall of 2009. Bernard has some wear on his tires, averaging more than 18 carries per game the past two seasons and taking more hits as a receiver and punt returner.

However, he is atop our running back board because of his versatility. Bernard is quick, shifty and instinctive as a runner, making the most of his blocks and flashing the ability to create even when he doesn't get a defined seam. His size will hinder his ability to anchor in pass protection, but Bernard is an effective receiver who catches the ball well and produces after the catch. Finally, he has the burst and vision to make an impact on punt returns.


Michigan State's Le'veon Bell (Grade: 80)
Bell checks in at 6-2 and 242 pounds, and he has to prove to scouts he is quick enough to be productive at the NFL level. Backs his size can succeed in the NFL -- just look at Atlanta's 244-pound Michael Turner -- but Bell's burst will be closely monitored during pre-draft workouts.

Still, Bell's size means he is tough to bring down. He can bounce off or power through would-be tacklers, and there's a lot to like about Bell's ability to exploit cutback lanes and bounce runs outside when necessary. It's his third-down ability that makes him an intriguing Day 2 prospect, though.

His size allows him to hold up well in pass protection, and he is an above average route-runner for his size with 76 career catches and the ability to line up in the slot at times.


Wisconsin's Montee Ball (Grade: 77)Experience is a valued asset in most job interviews, but not for running backs, who have short NFL shelf lives.

Ball has 900 career carries at Wisconsin, and his decision not to enter the 2012 draft will likely end up hurting his stock in 2013. He has stayed healthy for the most part, but that is a lot of pounding. Teams will also closely evaluate the concussion Ball sustained in an off-field incident.

Still, he is one of the most efficient runners in the country, with above average instincts, the discipline to follow blocks and the ability to get vertical as soon as he locates a seam. At 5-11 and 210 pounds, Ball doesn't have elite power, but he runs hard and picks up yards after contact. He is quicker than fast but has enough burst to rip off chunks of yardage when he gets a seam.


Clemson's Andre Ellington (Grade: 75)
Ellington is an undersized back (5-9⅜, 195) who has had problems staying healthy and doesn't have the power to push the pile in short-yardage situations. There are also concerns about his vision and anticipation.

However, after watching several tapes and seeing him play in person at Boston College this season, one word comes to mind: effort. Ellington may be small, but he has above average balance and is always fighting for yards after contact. He is fast enough to make defenses pay when he hits a seam out of the backfield, after the catch or returning kickoffs.



Oregon's Kenjon Barner (Grade: 74)
He is also on the smaller side (5-9⅛, 186) for a running back prospect, doesn't show great power between the tackles and has been nicked up at times. The reason Ellington grades slightly higher is that Barner is slightly smaller and has had ball-security issues.

Barner is at his best in space, and it's not just about his shiftiness or above average top-end speed. He shows above average instincts in terms of recognizing where pursuit is coming from and makes the most of his open-field blocks. He is never going to be a great pass-blocker who can anchor against blitzing linebackers, but Barner is an above average receiver for the position.

Steve Muench
Scouts Inc.

Thanks Bingo! It's almost depressing after reading that lol... I mean not even the high marks of the above RBs are good enough to overshadow the weaknesses/drawbacks that were written in.

Hopefully Hunter(ours) can recover on time and completely for the next season.

Maybe someone will shoot up the boards but there's not a team that has a BIG need for RB that they MUST answer in the first. Most likely change of pace backs but even that seems few this year.

 

[BINGO]

The Rams' draft plans
11:57AM ET
St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams' decision to forge ahead with Sam Bradford as their franchise QB -- instead of trying to trade him, and using the No. 2 overall pick on Robert Griffin III -- altered the course of history for a number of NFL franchises (the Rams and the Redskins of course, but also whichever team it was that acquired Bradford in this hypothetical). Nevertheless, the Rams are where they are, and thanks to the trade, they've got an extra first-rounder in the 2013 draft.

As Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes, things were looking significantly better for the Rams (draft-wise) a few weeks back. With St. Louis at 3-5-1 and Washington at 3-6, it looked like both of those first-rounders would be Top 10 selections. As of now? They sit in 15th and 18th position. Not horrible -- and some would argue that the lower salary paid to picks in the teens means missing on one is less devastating -- but not as ideal.

Naturally, the standings will change between now and the end of the season, so the Rams' position with those picks will also move around a bit. The Rams' three biggest needs -- in the opinion of ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper, Jr. -- are at WR, OT and RB. It's possible they fall in love with a particular prospect at one of those positions, and package their two first-rounders to nab him; or, they may stick where they are and try to check off two boxes on the draft's first night. Lot of possibilities left to play out.

- Tim Kavanagh​

 

[BINGO]

My biggest scare with the above scenario has nothing to do with 2013, but instead 2014. Rams already have two first round picks in 2014 (theirs and Redskins). They can manipulate this year's draft to attain yet another first round pick in 2014, making a total of three first round picks in 2014.

Anyway, my biggest scare is for them to end up with Jadeveon Clowney. No one in the NFC West can block that guy.

 

[CalamityX11]

The Rams' draft plans
11:57AM ET
St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams' decision to forge ahead with Sam Bradford as their franchise QB -- instead of trying to trade him, and using the No. 2 overall pick on Robert Griffin III -- altered the course of history for a number of NFL franchises (the Rams and the Redskins of course, but also whichever team it was that acquired Bradford in this hypothetical). Nevertheless, the Rams are where they are, and thanks to the trade, they've got an extra first-rounder in the 2013 draft.

As Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes, things were looking significantly better for the Rams (draft-wise) a few weeks back. With St. Louis at 3-5-1 and Washington at 3-6, it looked like both of those first-rounders would be Top 10 selections. As of now? They sit in 15th and 18th position. Not horrible -- and some would argue that the lower salary paid to picks in the teens means missing on one is less devastating -- but not as ideal.

Naturally, the standings will change between now and the end of the season, so the Rams' position with those picks will also move around a bit. The Rams' three biggest needs -- in the opinion of ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper, Jr. -- are at WR, OT and RB. It's possible they fall in love with a particular prospect at one of those positions, and package their two first-rounders to nab him; or, they may stick where they are and try to check off two boxes on the draft's first night. Lot of possibilities left to play out.

- Tim Kavanagh​

Mel thinks RB is a need for them? interesting view, he must be pegging on a Sjax departure?

WR is obvious(good thing its weak this year(but doesn't stop them for trading for an NFL WR though(Mike Wallace?? if not resigned)))
OT is apparent, maybe G...
Defense too, keep adding talent to that front 7... fuck us if they draft Moore.

 

[CalamityX11]

My biggest scare with the above scenario has nothing to do with 2013, but instead 2014. Rams already have two first round picks in 2014 (theirs and Redskins). They can manipulate this year's draft to attain yet another first round pick in 2014, making a total of three first round picks in 2014.

Anyway, my biggest scare is for them to end up with Jadeveon Clowney. No one in the NFC West can block that guy.

Anthony Davis can!!!!