Rankings, Draft position and scouting reports
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1. Eddie Goldman DT, Florida State
I saw this guy play many times at FSU. One of the best run stuffers in the draft. Rated consensus "instant starter" by scouts.
"His power at the point of attack and ability to discard blockers and actually make plays rather than just eating space will have 3-4 teams very excited about their potential nose guard of the future. However, his lack of pass-rushing prowess could limit just how high he rises on draft boards."
Others I haven't seen play that may be available: Malcom Brown, Jordan Phillips
2. Paul Dawson OLB/ILB, TCU
I haven't seen this guy play, but he may be the best LB in this draft. He's rated an "instant starter" and may fall to us because some scouts worry about his intangibles.
"Always plays downhill, attacking line of scrimmage. Second-level ghost who is a nightmare for offensive linemen to engage. Instantly unlocks hips and bursts to chase outside. Smooth lateral movement with ability to change direction and mirror running back into the hole. Gets skinny and slips blocks. When blocked, doesn't stay wired to blocks. Chases sideline to sideline. Excels in pass coverage, allowing just 35.7 percent of passes against him to be completed. Tough play demeanor. Plays hard and practices hard."
3. Jesse James TE, Penn State
I've watched film on this guy. At 6'7" 254 lbs. he plays like a man among boys on the field. Anybody here seen him play? Can he be our version of "Gronk?"
"A true junior, James leaves Penn State with 11 career touchdown receptions, breaking a tie with College Football Hall of Fame inductee Ted Kwalick against Maryland this past November for the school record by a tight end. - Penn State football."
4. Tyler Lockette WR/Returner, Kansas State
I watched this guy in the Alamo Bowl put his team on his back and almost beat UCLA. 13 catches; 164 yds; 2 TD's; 2 kick returns; and 2 punt returns. He reminds me of Greg Jennings. Scouts say he's undersized at 5"10" 181 lbs. I say his size is why he'll fall to us and make our kick return game fearsome. He's a deep threat and slot insurance for Cobb.
"Intelligent player on field who has clearly learned from his father. Nuanced route runner with ability to sell. Will vary route speed and is proficient with double moves. Scouts say his personal character and football character are top-notch. Has a knack for making explosive plays as a receiver and return man. Steps up his game when matched up against top competition across from him. Likes to block."
5. Sean Mannion QB, Oregon State
I don't know much about this guy except he's 6'6" and 229 lbs. and that his scouting report is impressive. A year or two learning under Arod and we might have something.
"When he feels secure in the pocket and has the time to step into his throws correctly, Mannion's touch on intermediate and vertical passes is as impressive as any quarterback in the country. He lofts the ball with perfect trajectory over the shoulder of his receivers and allows them to go get it, demonstrating pinpoint accuracy to lead his target away from defenders. Mannion has an easy, natural throwing motion and he's well-versed in coach Mike Riley's pro-style offense, which asks him to take snaps from under center as well as from the gun. While he can drive the ball when needed, it cruises, rather than explodes out of his hand."
5c. Rob Havenstein OT Wisconsin
We all know this guy. Why not?
5c. Josh Robinson RB, Mississippi State
I've seen this guy many times play in the SEC down here against top notch competition. He reminds me of Emmitt Smith, believe it or not. He's a one cut RB with power and shake and bake. Plus, he can catch the ball with the rest of them. He's not a speed merchant. At 5'9" and 215 lbs. he may last until the 5th round.
Film is on YouTube.
6. Jordan Taylor WR, Rice
Don't know him from Adam, but he's 6'5" 204 lbs. and another red zone target for Arod.
7. Kyle Loomis P, Portland State
Best punter in the country...and it looks like our punter needs competition.
c - Compensatory