PI LIST OF TOP NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS AT EACH POSITION

[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Analysis: Wide receivers, tight ends

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top wide receivers and tight ends in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.
NFL Draft Analysis: WIDE RECEIVERS

WIDE RECEIVER
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. CALVIN JOHNSON
Georgia Tech 6-5 239 4.35 1

Almost too good to be true in every category. "He's one of the easiest picks of all time," San Diego GM A.J. Smith said. "Who's the one guy you're betting the house on will be a performer, won't embarrass you, won't get the money and run south? This is the one guy." Third-year junior started all 38 games. "He's sort of a strider who gains speed," one scout said. "He's not one of those initially quick guys but he has quickness. He can run routes, he can catch, he can take balls away. He needs to work on his blocking but he can destroy people when he wants to." Caught 178 passes for 2,297 yards (16.4) and 28 touchdowns. "He's a mismatch just lining up for a lot of people, let alone he's got speed and catching ability," Buffalo assistant GM Tom Modrak said. "Physically, he's got more than Larry Fitzgerald. He's bigger and stronger than (James) Lofton. I hate to do this but he really is a freak." Tech receiver coach Buddy Geis, who coached Sterling Sharpe in Green Bay and Marvin Harrison in Indianapolis, said Johnson is the best he has had.
2. ROBERT MEACHEM
Tennessee 6-2 216 4.41 1

Runs after the catch like the running back that he was for a time in high school. "Best run after the catch in the draft," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. His running dimension led Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway to draw a comparison with Andre Rison. Fourth-year junior sat out '03 with torn knee cartilage, then made just two starts in 2004-'05. Exploded in '06 with 71 catches, 1,298 yards (18.3) and 11 TDs. "Rare combination of size and speed," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "I worry about the hands some." Not a true vertical receiver but does have a burst and sensational athleticism. "He's strong, can catch and can make plays after the catch," one scout said. "But he's got no feel for zones. He's kind of stiff in the hips and struggles in and out of breaks. His routes aren't very good, either."
3. DWAYNE BOWE
Louisiana State 6-2 219 4.54 1

Compared by two scouts to Bears veteran Muhsin Muhammad. "He is like him," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. "Power player. More the possession tough guy. Does the dirty work. Really good body control. You love the competitor. Has his drops, too. He can (get deep), but he's going to have to win it one-on-one. He's not going to win it with pure speed, obviously." Started 30 of 50 games, finishing with 154 catches for 2,403 yards (15.6) and 26 TDs. Improved each year. "Tough guy and will block for you," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "His hands are good. He's got everything you want except being a burner." Must fight a constant battle with weight. One scout said he was quicker and probably better than Arizona's Anquan Boldin.
4. TED GINN JR.
Ohio State 5-11 178 4.35 1

Third-year junior with world-class speed. "He's one of those rare guys that if he played with Brett Favre and Brett threw the ball 80 yards, Ted Ginn could go run 80 yards," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "The field isn't big enough for him. He has a chance to be a superstar, but there's a lot of hit or miss with the guy." Rated by most teams as the No. 1 return specialist. Was a great prep cornerback playing for his father in Cleveland. He isn't refined as a receiver and appears somewhat timid. "Everybody is looking for reasons why he dropped a lot of balls," one scout said. "Maybe his hands aren't special. And he dropped them with his back toward the heavy breathers that are coming to knock the hell out of him. But I know one thing: he has scored a lot of touchdowns." Caught 125 passes for 1,943 yards (15.5) and 15 TDs as a 2 1/2-year starter. "This guy has been pampered all his life and it's all about him, it's not about his team," another scout said. "He's got dangerous vertical speed and will double as a return guy, but he's selfish." Still not fully recovered from a foot injury suffered in early January.
5. DWAYNE JARRETT
Southern California 6-4 215 4.63 1-2

Made a mint in the Rose Bowl with 11 catches for 205 yards against Michigan. "He's an athletic, big, tall, rangy guy with very good ball skills," San Francisco scout Trent Baalke said. "He makes a lot of contested catches because he knows how to use his frame. He's a very good red-zone possession receiver." Third-year junior and 2 1/2-year starter. Finished with 216 catches for 3,138 yards (14.5) and Pac-10 record 41 TDs. "He's not Mike Williams," Angelo said. "You always hear that comparison. He doesn't have that weight problem. Great body control. Plays big. He doesn't have great speed." Hurt himself with slow 40 on pro day. "He bothers me tremendously," one scout said. "I don't see any suddenness in his play. He looks like a possession guy in the red zone to me. That's not enough for me to be a top pick." Scored 14 on the Wonderlic, two fewer than Meachem, one fewer than Bowe and one more than Ginn.
6. SIDNEY RICE
South Carolina 6-3 1/2 197 4.51 2

"He's not as good as Johnson but he belongs with all the others," one scout said. "He's a tall, slender guy. Silky smooth. Played on an awful, awful team. The quarterback was terrible. A lot of times you don't see (Steve) Spurrier's guys have success early because they have to be taught how to play receiver." Third-year sophomore. Sat out '04 with hyperextended knee, then caught 142 passes for 2,233 yards (15.7) and 23 TDs. "Athletic going up and getting the ball," Tennessee director of player personnel Rich Snead said. "Can make a tough catch. Can run and jump. Runs well enough. Not a real strong guy." Some say he hears footsteps inside. "I like everything about him except his quickness and his separation," another scout said. "He will struggle to get off press. If it's in an area, he's going to catch it. He's a red-zone guy."
7. CRAIG DAVIS
Louisiana State 6-1 1/2 207 4.42 2

Some-time starter until '06 due in part to nagging injuries, including what one scout categorized as a "chronic hamstring." Said Buffalo national scout Marc Ross: "Overall, he's the most skilled guy. He's just been nicked up and has some questions on his durability and toughness. As far as size, speed, quickness, route-running, hands, run after catch, he's got it all." Finished with 141 catches for 2,107 yards (14.9) and seven TDs. "He didn't want to (play hurt) this year," one scout said. "He was in and out. Toughness is what worries you about him." Added another scout: "He's got the most up-side. I wouldn't say he's timid. Everything's got to be right for him to be good. If he gets a hamstring nick, (expletive), you might not see him for two weeks."
8. STEVE SMITH
Southern California 6-0 195 4.45 2

Three-year starter. "Exceptional route runner," Softli said. "Lot of quickness in his game. Very soft, sure hands. What you see is what you're going to get. I helped draft Keary Colbert (for Carolina '04), and this kid is just like that." Several scouts said USC wide receivers were among the best-prepared in the country. "Over the years I thought he was just a guy," one scout said. "I couldn't believe what I saw this year. Then he might have had a better workout than Johnson. Just spectacular. He reminds me of Reggie Wayne but he's faster." Started 27 of 46 games, finished with 190 catches for 3,019 yards (15.9) and 22 TDs and saved his best for '06. "Good college player," another scout said. "Not a special guy."
9. JASON HILL
Washington State 6-0 1/2 204 4.32 2

Three-year starter. "He's a great kid and really a success story," Baalke said. "The type of kid that will play a long time in the NFL." After a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, he was one of the major surprises at the combine with blistering 40. "Unbelievable that he ran that," one scout said. "Because he doesn't play to that. But he was productive." Finished with 148 catches for 2,704 yards (18.3) and 32 TDs. Well-built, sure-handed, high character but not very quick.
10. ANTHONY GONZALEZ
Ohio State 6-0 194 4.44 2

Smartest (29 on the Wonderlic) and had fastest time (4.08) in short shuttle of the top wideouts. "He's one of those guys who will play for 10 years," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "He's dedicated to football, a football fanatic. I'm sure he will be one of those guys that just gets open and catches balls." Fourth-year junior didn't start until '06. Finished with 87 catches for 1,286 yards (14.8) and 13 TDs. "Product of the system," one scout said. "If you got two, maybe three strong wideouts, he could come in and do your intermediate routes. A poor man's Ricky Proehl is what he is." Sleeps in a hyperbaric chamber. "He reminds me of people from the Bay Area in the 1960s," another scout said. "The 'Hippie Movement.' He's very, very bright but he's very different when you talk to him."

OTHERS: Jacoby Jones, Lane (Tenn.); Laurent Robinson, Illinois State; Paul Williams, Fresno State; David Clowney, Virginia Tech; Johnnie Lee Higgins, Texas-El Paso; Aundrae Allison, East Carolina; Dallas Baker, Florida; Steve Breaston, Michigan; Yamon Figurs, Kansas State; Courtney Taylor, Auburn; Mike Walker, Central Florida; Chris Davis, Florida State; Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame.


NFL Draft Analysis: TIGHT ENDS

TIGHT END
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.

1. GREG OLSEN
Miami 6-6 255 4.51 1

Two-year starter moved into first-round consideration with blazing 40 at combine. "We don't think he is Dallas Clark," Polian said. "But the numbers tell us differently, that he's every bit as good." Fourth-year junior with 87 catches for 1,215 yards (14.0) and six TDs. "If you want somebody to stretch Cover 2, he can do it," Gruden said. "He's not in the (Bubba) Franks, (Jeremy) Shockey, (Kellen) Winslow class because he doesn't block. He won't block anybody. But he can run and catch." Olsen readily admits his blocking must improve and insists it will improve. "But if you think he's going to be a blocker, then you're talking about (urinating) on cotton because it ain't going to happen," one scout said. His parents both are coaches. Also compared to Jay Novacek. "Whenever they needed a big play Winslow made it," another scout said. "I've seen him look fantastic in practice. Larry Coker told me he'd be the best tight end they ever had when he was a freshman but he's never done it. He drops balls, he's not a blocker. I wouldn't take him in the first but I'm sure someone will because he ran 4.5." Had 30 on the Wonderlic.
2. ZACH MILLER
Arizona State 6-4 1/2 255 4.82 2

Third-year junior probably came out in a good year. "Zach will be a steady tight end in the league," Baalke said. "Can he be a Bubba Franks type guy? He certainly can. He can be an Alex Smith. He can block, catch, line up in multiple positions. He's smart, dependable and durable." Started all 35 games over three years and caught 144 passes for 1,512 yards (10.5) and 14 TDs. Broke Todd Heap's school reception record of 115 but Heap averaged 14.7. "He's a really good blocker and he's a great kid," Philadelphia GM Tom Heckert said. "He just doesn't run very fast." Wonderlic score of 29. "More of a strider athlete than a quick, sudden, explosive guy," one scout said. "I'd like to see him adjust better in the open field. He needs some work (blocking) but he's got enough size to position, shield, wall guys off so the back can clear."
3. SCOTT CHANDLER
Iowa 6-7 267 4.80 3

Two-year starter from a program that has produced capable tight ends. "You kind of know what you're getting," Modrak said. "It's pretty good and there aren't many." Joined the Hawkeyes as a king-sized wideout before moving to tight end in '04. Dropped too many in '06. "But he's got nice hands," one scout said. "He's too stiff, too erect. He's not sudden. He's an angle blocker." A two-year starter with 115 catches for 1,431 yards (12.4) and 10 TDs. Scored 34 on the Wonderlic. "He's not a blocker," another scout said. "I don't know how tough he is. That bothers me." Added a third scout: "Scott Chandler is 'Lurch.' I mean, what else is there?"
4. BEN PATRICK
Delaware 6-3 251 4.74 3-4

Led lowly Duke in receiving for two seasons, graduated and transferred to Division I-AA Delaware for final year of eligibility. "Doesn't have great burst to separate but he's a fluid, smooth-moving guy," one scout said. "He's got ability. He's dependable. Pass pro (protection) is his issue." Another scout knocked him for bailing out on the Blue Devils. "We need people up here that are fighters in the sport," he said. "You go to Delaware? I ain't got nothing against the University of Delaware. Nice school. But the problem I have is he didn't dominate there." Lingering foot injury is cause of considerable concern for some teams. "Not great speed, not a great blocker," Snead said. "He's like an H-back type." Strangely, he has dropped almost 20 pounds since last fall. Caught 143 passes for 1,420 yards (10.3) and eight TDs.
5. MATT SPAETH
Minnesota 6-7 270 4.83 4-5

Had shoulder surgery late in the season. "He worked out April 5 and ran quite well," Tennessee scout Johnny Meads said. "He could be perhaps an early second-day pick." Smart (29 on the Wonderlic), rugged and a four-year starter. "Tough guy," Angelo said. "Kind of a self-made player. He's limited in the passing game but he's a big target." Caught 109 passes for 1,291 yards (11.8) and 12 TDs. Father, Ken, was Buffalo's fifth-round pick as a tight end in '78 but never made it. "It's hard for those big guys to block with leverage but he's decent at it," one scout said.
6. MARTREZ MILNER
Georgia 6-4 250 4.81 4-5

Split time with Leonard Pope in '05 before finally starting in '06. "Great athlete," one scout said. "But he dropped balls and has always dropped balls." Besides Pope, Georgia also has sent tight ends Jermaine Wiggins, Randy McMichael and Ben Watson to the NFL in last decade. "Over-hyped and overrated," another scout said. Finished with 49 catches for 808 yards (16.5) and five TDs. Said a third scout: "Average blocker. He has good hands but he has been inconsistent. Better athlete than player."
7. MICHAEL ALLAN
Whitworth 6-6 254 4.71 5

Lightly recruited from an 0-9 prep team in Bellevue, Wash., and went to Division III program. "Whitworth?" one scout said. "Who knows what he's going to be? You don't know what he's going to be." Only non-scholarship school invitee at combine. "He sees himself as a receiver, and for a big guy he's athletic," Snead said. "But he can't just make it as a receiver." Finished with 118 catches for 2,202 yards (18.7) and 29 TDs.
8. CLARK HARRIS
Rutgers 6-5 1/2 258 4.79 5-6

Three-year starter with 143 catches for 2,105 yards (14.1) and 11 TDs. "All his stuff is in front of him," Hardaway said. "He's an athlete and he's smart. You can develop strength and conditioning." Posted 40 on the Wonderlic. "You can't say he's a threat as a receiver although he can catch the ball," one scout said. "He doesn't run block all that well but he gives effort. He doesn't play very fast, he doesn't play very strong." One of two position players in the draft with a chance to long snap.
9. DANTE ROSARIO
Oregon 6-3 242 4.78 6

Moved from fullback to tight end in '05. More of an athlete than a physical player. Finished with 94 catches for 1,003 yards (10.7) and 11 TDs. "He's an H-back," one scout said. "He actually doesn't play on the line of scrimmage. Motion guy. Catches the ball well. He's not a blocker."
10. BRADEN JONES
Southern Illinois 6-3 260 4.67 6

Enrolled at Northwestern in '01 but didn't play after suffering head injuries in a fight. Part-time starter at outside linebacker in 2002-'03 but had all kinds of legal problems and was kicked off team in '04. Transferred to SIU in '05 and moved to tight end. Granted a sixth year of eligibility in '06 and caught 32 passes for 521 (16.3) and seven TDs. One of the few tight ends with above average speed. "We don't have him high at all," one scout said. "He can run but we killed him character-wise."

OTHERS: Kevin Boss, Western Oregon; Derek Schouman, Boise State; Ray Hall, Ohio State; Cody Boyd, Washington State; Daniel Coats, Brigham Young; Jonny Harline, Brigham Young; Joe Newton, Oregon State; Anthony Pudewell, Nevada.









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[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Analysis: Offensive linemen

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top offensive linemen in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.

NFL Draft Analysis: TACKLES

TACKLE
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. JOE THOMAS
Wisconsin 6-6 1/2 311 4.92 1

Extra tight end in 2003, left tackle from 2004-'06. "He is in a class by himself," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "I think he's more like (Tony) Boselli than some other (great players). He's not quite as quick on his feet, not quite the dancer. But I like him a lot." Some scouts wish he had longer arms than 33 3/4 inches, which tied for 19th longest among 51 offensive linemen at the combine, but admit they're nit-picking. Some also would like to see more explosive drive blocking. "But the one thing they didn't ask him to do a lot was knock people off the ball," one scout said. "What he does is run and pull and block in space and pass block. He does it very well." Scored 29 on the 50-question Wonderlic test and bench-pressed 225 pounds 28 times.
2. LEVI BROWN
Penn State 6-5 1/2 321 5.40 1

Former defensive lineman plays with defensive temperament. "He is absolutely a mean, nasty, great run blocker," San Diego GM A.J. Smith said. "Great athlete. His negative is he needs to finish plays a little bit more. You always want perfection." Four-year starter at left tackle. "He's crude but he's got strong traits," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. "Plays with a lot of power. Not a top athlete like you want at left tackle but a functional athlete. He can play left." Didn't run well at the combine and looked somewhat stiff in drills. Will need work sliding in pass protection. "He's not as athletic as D'Brickashaw (Ferguson), a once-in-a-lifetime athlete," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. "But he is athletic and much bigger and much more powerful than D'Brickashaw. He's smart (25 on the Wonderlic) and tough."
3. JOE STALEY
Central Michigan 6-6 304 4.82 1-2

Went to CMU as a 240-pound tight end, moved to offense and started at right tackle (2004-'05) and left tackle ('06). "He's athletic," Tennessee director of player personnel Rich Snead said, equating his athleticism to Chad Clifton's. "You just worry about the strength. Plus, he's still kind of raw. At some point he will be a starter." Failed to impress at the Senior Bowl. Susceptible to bull rushes. "Great athlete but, boy, he's just not a physical guy," one scout said. "I think he's tough enough but something's missing in him. Tamba Hali gave him a lot of problems last year (2005) and there's a hell of a lot better ends in this league than him." Posted highest Wonderlic score (32) of top 15 tackles.
4. TONY UGOH
Arkansas 6-5 301 5.06 1-2

Concentrated as much if not more on track than football until '06. "He's a one-year wonder," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. "He's got all the skills to be good. Just a matter how bad he wants it." Two-year starter at left tackle. Smart (25 on the Wonderlic), speedy and had 36-inch arms, second longest among O-linemen at combine. "Tremendously gifted," one scout said. "But he's got a passive personality and the game may be too big for him. He can't really knock you off the ball yet and he's always on a defender's edges." Razorback coaches tell scouts they're still not sure how committed Ugoh is to football. "He's got what you're looking for," Philadelphia GM Tom Heckert said. "But he just doesn't do it all the time."
5. RYAN HARRIS
Notre Dame 6-4 1/2 305 5.09 2-3

Made strong recovery from back surgery a year ago, quieting some critics who questioned his toughness. "He had one practice before the first game and played the whole season," one scout said. "Got a lot of upside. Will be a starting left tackle." Four-year starter. His father, Kevin, played guard at UW-Stout in the early 1980s. "He comes across as an academic," another scout said. "When you interview him you say, 'Does this guy love football? Is he the proverbial Domer?' But is tough and athletic. I got more concerns about his strength than his toughness." He's a devout Muslim and hails from St. Paul, Minn.
6. DOUG FREE
Northern Illinois 6-6 321 5.19 2-3

Went to NIU as a tight end but wound up starting 49 games at left tackle. "Real good feet," Ross said. "For as big as he is he has to get a lot stronger. I think he will be a real good starting left tackle." Managed just 22 reps on the bench press. "You watch him at the point of attack and he just gets stuffed," one scout said. "But he's a big guy and athletic." Hometown is Manitowoc, Wis. "Seems like too nice of a kid," another scout said.
7. JAMES MARTEN
Boston College 6-7 1/2 310 5.08 3

Starter at left guard in 2004-'05 and left tackle in '06. "He comes from BC and they learn how to play the position there," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "He needs more strength but he's tough and is going to be OK." Compared favorably to Jeremy Trueblood, Tampa Bay's second-round pick in '06 who preceded him at LT. "He's more or less a guy that can grab cloth and maul and ride on," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "He's not real fleet afoot but he's smart. Probably a better right tackle than left."
8. MARIO HENDERSON
Florida State 6-6 1/2 302 5.11 3-4

One-year starter at left tackle. "He's my sleeper," one scout said. "He shut down (Clemson's) Gaines Adams in about 10 plays and he shut down (Calais) Campbell, who had 12 (actually 10 1/2) sacks for Miami." Isn't very strong but is very athletic and smart enough. "Physically, he's right," Buffalo assistant GM Tom Modrak said. "Three, four games into the season I thought by the end of the year this guy will really be a dude. He was OK. He's kind of a work in progress who has talent."
9. BRANDON FRYE
Virginia Tech 6-4 301 5.08 3-4

Backup until '06, when he started at left tackle. "Another potential guy," Modrak said. "Different than most Virginia Tech linemen. They usually get those squatty body guys. He's a pretty good athlete. He's got enough movement and breakdown and knee bend to play. He may take a little bit of time." Led tackles on bench press at combine with 34 reps. "Poor man's Ugoh," one scout said. "This kid is pretty talented but he just doesn't get it done."
10. JERMON BUSHROD
Towson 6-4 1/2 315 4.99 4

Started at left tackle for 3 1/2 years in Division I-AA ranks. "He was an effective player but the guys he was throwing around looked like they were about 240," one scout said. "But that's not his fault." One of the better players not invited to combine. "He's visited 12, 13 teams," another scout said. "Didn't get much coaching. He will need some time but he's athletic, he's got power, he's a left tackle."

OTHERS: Dane Uperesa, Hawaii; Adam Koets, Oregon State; Jacob Bender, Nicholls State; Chris Denman, Fresno State; Chase Johnson, Wyoming; Elliot Vallejo, California-Davis; Clint Oldenburg, Colorado State; Andrew Carnahan, Arizona State; Ken Shackleford, Georgia; Kyle Williams, Southern California; Brent Pousson, McNeese State.

NFL Draft Analysis: GUARDS

GUARD
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. BEN GRUBBS
Auburn 6-2 1/2 313 5.14 1

Excels on the move. "The proverbial West Coast lineman, as I think of one," Angelo said. "When you're pulling, trapping and getting to the second level." Doesn't dominate in-line but has superb feet and quickness. "Solid, had a great year, competitor," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "Good guy. Smart. Got all the intangibles." Regarded by some scouts as a safe pick. "I watched him for five or six games and I don't know if I gave him more than five or six minuses," one scout said. "Most guys this big can't hit a moving target. He can. A lot of guys see him like Ruben Brown."
2. ARRON SEARS
Tennessee 6-3 1/2 313 5.12 1-2

"He's got power and will get movement on the football," one scout said. "He can play through pain. He's durable. And he can play all across the board." Three-year starter with service everywhere but center. "He plays smash-mouth," said Angelo. "Not a great athlete, a good athlete. Combination of power and athleticism." History of nagging injuries is a concern. "He can anchor and punch but has limitations in space and did not look very fluid for one of the better players," another scout said. "He gets overextended in run blocks and has problems on the second level. I just didn't think he had good body control."
3. JUSTIN BLALOCK
Texas 6-3 320 5.10 1-2

Started 3 1/2 years at right tackle and last six games of '06 at right guard. "He's a wide body that can move people off the ball," San Francisco scout Trent Baalke said. "He does a real good job in pass protection." Regarded as a deep thinker (37 on the Wonderlic) and did a whopping 40 reps on the bench press. "He could play center for 15 years," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "Very good pass blocker. Shuffles, got good feet. He's just not as tall as you want." Not a down-and-dirty tough guy. "He is dumpy," one scout said. "He's a position and place guy. Stays on his feet, though. Thing about him, he plays heavy."
4. MARSHAL YANDA
Iowa 6-4 306 5.18 3-4

One of the Hawkeyes' rare junior-college transfers who earned starting job in his first season. Spent most of his two starting seasons at right tackle. "The coaches all loved him at Iowa because of his work ethic," Gruden said."Not an overwhelmingly big guy but he really competes." Didn't test well in strength or agility tests. "I must have missed something on this guy because he's stiff as a board," one scout said. "I like Marshal because of his toughness. Will he be overdrafted? No question."
5. JOSH BEEKMAN
Boston College 6-1 1/2 311 5.36 4

Three-year starter at right guard and backed up at center. "Kind of a road-grader," Angelo said. "Got a little Harry Galbreath in him." Confident, resourceful and mature. Also short of stature and cursed with short arms. "He's too much of a mauler for us," said Polian. "But there are people who love maulers who will love him. He does play two positions and he can maul at both positions. Those guys make it in the league."
6. ANDY ALLEMAN
Akron 6-4 306 5.07 4-5

"He's a white-collar kid," one scout said. "You're going to line up against 330-pounders and 360-pounders whose only job is to come straight into you and knock the (expletive) out of you. He doesn't like it down and dirty. I think he has to be in a zone scheme." One-time defensive end at Pittsburgh who ended up starting two years at right guard for Zips. Smart and strong. "Loves the game and really dedicated," another scout said. "He will be a coach on the field. Your O-line coach will fall in love with him."
7. MANSFIELD WROTTO
Georgia Tech 6-3 315 5.40 4-5

Started at defensive tackle from 2003-'05 (5 sacks) before shifting to right tackle and starting in '06. "(Coach) Chan Gailey basically said he needs to go to NFL Europe and learn how to play (offense)," one scout said. "He does have some athletic ability but then he ran 5.4. I think why they moved him from defense to offense is he's got a soft personality." Other teams see him as a tough guy. "He is extremely aggressive," Softli said. "Plays that position like a defensive tackle."
8. ALLEN BARBRE
Missouri Southern State 6-4 297 4.84 4-5

Started at left tackle for 3 1/2 seasons in a Division II program. "He's got so long to go," one scout said. "Really a try-hard kid. Pretty good athlete. But he is really light. He gets launched where he's playing now." Might struggle grasping a NFL system and environment. "Super athlete," Heckert said. Added another scout: "Really a tough, battling guy."
9. JULIUS WILSON
Alabama-Birmingham 6-4 313 5.26 5

Junior-college transfer. Three-year starter for UAB at right tackle. "He has to become more disciplined in his mental presentation for the game and weight control," Hardaway said. "I know that's a hell of a term, to become nasty, but he has to become more physically aggressive. He will become very appealing early second day." Clubs should spend some extra time checking his checkered past. "Little bit of mental, little bit of level of comp," one scout said. "Little bit of this, little bit of that. Big-bodied guy that is in vogue. You probably say he's a half season or a season away."
10. TALA ESERA
Hawaii 6-3 312 5.33 5

Started at left tackle for four years but operated out of a two-point stance because the Rainbows throw almost every down. "He will have to be taught to run block," one scout said. Strong enough and smart enough to make adjustments. "Very good athlete but he's really soft-bodied," another scout said. "I think he can play guard and center."

OTHERS: Cameron Stephenson, Rutgers; Uche Nwaneri, Purdue; Mike Otto, Purdue; Dan Santucci, Notre Dame; Tim Duckworth, Auburn; Mike Jones, Iowa; Manuel Ramirez, Texas Tech; Josh Day, Colorado State; Kasey Studdard, Texas; Robert Turner, New Mexico.

NFL Draft Analysis: CENTERS

CENTER
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. RYAN KALIL
Southern California 6-2 1/2 297 4.96 1-2

Undersized three-year starter and Senior Bowl standout. "Love Kalil," Polian said. "He's Jeff Saturday." One scout said Kalil probably was as tough as Olin Kreutz. Another compared him favorably to Mike Flanagan and on a par with Nick Mangold. Vocal leader. "First of all, you don't fail with Kalil," said Modrak. "He's smart, tough. He's a little light in the butt. To me, as long as they can drop their hips and play with leverage, they'll be plenty good enough." Shows rare ability to snap the ball and get his hands and hips into ideal blocking position. "He is going to have trouble playing a big man's game," one scout said. "I hate to take a center in the first unless they're a dominant center who can handle people one-on-one. He's not that guy."
2. SAMSON SATELE
Hawaii 6-2 1/2 303 5.24 3

Four-year starter at left guard and center. "He won't learn as fast as Kalil but he plays a little stronger than Kalil," one scout said. "He's probably a better all-around athlete than Kalil but he's not as polished." Bends well and knocks people around. It's a tough sell for scouts because his arms (30 3/4) were the shortest of 51 O-linemen at the combine. "You've got to fight past the short arms," Polian said. "But the guy moves and is a powerful man." Said Angelo: "Most centers have short arms. That's why I don't like Satele at guard but I like him at center."
3. LeROY HARRIS
North Carolina State 6-2 1/2 301 5.35 3-4

Four-year starter. "He's a little bit more mature than most because he's married," Hardaway said. "He knows there is a future there for him and his family. I believe he's going to be good." Had a down senior year partially due to nagging injuries. Widely admired for his work ethic and character. "He's got some strength," Ross said. "But he's more quick and relentless."
4. DUSTIN FRY
Clemson 6-2 1/2 314 5.40 3-4

"He's more your tough guy," Angelo said. "Smart. Finds a way to get it done. Not real athletic." Two-year starter. Strong and powerful. "You talk about a mauler, that guy's a mauler," said Ross. "Box area. Can't move his feet. Strong. He grabs and holds. That's his game."
5. DOUG DATISH
Ohio State 6-4 302 5.13 4-5

Started at guard in '04, left tackle in '05 and center in '06. "Overrated," one scout said. "He's a physical looking guy who plays finesse. The big thing about him is his versatility. Early in the year he was losing ground to gain position but at the same time he was getting the (expletive) knocked out of him." Smartest center (31 Wonderlic) on the board and a representative athlete. "But not a power guy," another scout said. "The Hudson Houck school won't even have him on the board."
OTHERS: Dan Mozes, West Virginia; Herbert Taylor, Texas Christian; Scott Stephenson, Iowa State; Enoka Lucas, Oregon; Lyle Sendlein, Texas; Steve Vallos, Wake Forest; Kyle Cook, Michigan State; Mark Fenton, Colorado; Drew Mormino, Central Michigan.

[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Analysis: Running Backs, Fullbacks

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top running backs and fullbacks in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.

RUNNING BACK

School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. ADRIAN PETERSON
Oklahoma 6-1 1/2 217 4.40 1

Third-year junior. "Adrian runs like he's mad at everybody," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "He just runs hard. And I mean, he's big." Second in Heisman Trophy voting as a freshman when he led country with 1,925 yards. "He's got a chance to be a star," San Diego GM A.J. Smith said. "He's so exceptionally talented and exceptionally tough. But he's got a problem." Meaning durability. He missed time with shoulder, ankle and collarbone injuries. Runs high and is an inviting target. "Up there, you run tall and they'll knock your head off," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "His running style reminded me of Eric Dickerson but Eric had some elusiveness about him. If he can outrun you, he'll outrun you, but the guy don't make too many people miss. I don't know how long he's going to last." Scored 16 on the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test (NFL average is 19). "He walks in the room and the room lights up," one scout said. "Very, very positive person. Always has a big smile." Finished with 4,405 yards (5.4) and 41 TDs.
2. MARSHAWN LYNCH
California 5-11 218 4.46 1

Third-year junior and two-year starter. "He's a complete pro back," Gruden said. "Strong runner. Elusive. He's no midget. He's got great hands." Just 490 career carries. Finished with 3,230 yards (6.6 average) and 29 TDs. "I kind of compare him to Emmitt Smith a little bit," one scout said. "Great balance. Runs with a real good base. I thought he was a 4.6 guy. Faster than I expected. He's not spectacular. I saw him in the Arizona game when he broke one and it would have been an 80-yard touchdown and he got caught. Peterson doesn't get caught." Also caught 68 passes and returned 33 kickoffs (22.5), but an AFC special-teams coach said he lacked return skills. Scored 14 on the Wonderlic. "The character bothers you a little bit," another scout said. "How he's going to handle all this."
3. KENNY IRONS
Auburn 5-10 1/2 203 4.45 2

Two-year starter. "He's as hard a running guy as I've seen in a long time," one scout said. "The problem with him, he's 195. If he keeps on throwing his body around like he did in college I don't know how long he'll last." Spent two unfulfilled seasons at South Carolina and transferred to Auburn, where he was two-year starter. "Never gives up on a run," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. "Tries to run people over. Now if you have another back and the way people are running two-back stuff now, he's going to be dynamic." Finished 10th in Auburn history with 2,114 yards, and had 2,366 (4.8) for full career.
4. ANTONIO PITTMAN
Ohio State 5-10 1/2 210 4.40 2-3

Third-year junior and two-year starter, surpassing 1,200 yards twice. "He has vision between the tackles," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "He can get skinny in there and he runs hard. But he's not the home-run hitter." Regarded as best receiver among top backs by Philadelphia GM Tom Heckert, who compared him somewhat to Brian Westbrook. "I don't think he's an every-down guy," Tennessee director of player personnel Rich Snead said. "If you ask him to do stuff out of the backfield and catch the ball and be a change of pace guy, he could be a pretty good player." Finished with 2,945 yards (5.3), 22 TDs and 37 receptions.
5. TONY HUNT
Penn State 6-1 1/2 234 4.68 2-3

Possibly the smartest (29 Wonderlic) and hardest-running back on the board. "Tony Hunt can really pound," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "Certainly tough as hell and hard-nosed and all that stuff. He would (be a starter) for Parcells. Who else wants that kind of back?" Strictly an inside runner and might have a weight problem. "He's a nothing," one scout said. "He has no speed. Very slow. And he's really not a talented inside runner." MVP of the Outback and Senior bowls. Carried 623 times for 3,162 yards (5.1) and 25 TDs. "He'd be good in Green Bay because of the weather," said Gruden.
6. CHRIS HENRY
Arizona 5-11 230 4.40 2-3

Fourth-year junior. Third-string in 2004 and '05, made six starts in '06 and finished career with 892 yards (3.3) and nine TDs. After a phenomenal combine workout, he could go astonishingly high. "Oh, stop it," Polian said. "Why would you say he's a good back? He hasn't proven it. He does have fresh legs because he hasn't used them in college." One scout said he didn't even stand out in high school. Fumbled early in career and dropped too many passes. Called the "sleeper of the draft" by one scout and a "completely manufactured player" by another. Still, his 29-carry, 191-yard game late in '06 against Oregon showcased his ability. "He's probably more talented than Lynch," a third scout said. "If he runs behind his pads he's really heavy." Said St. Louis VP Tony Softli: "He looks like our guy (Steven Jackson). Not a bad receiver at all. But that's a gamble to take him real high."
7. MICHAEL BUSH
Louisville 6-1 1/2 243 4.65 3-6

Best back out of the city of Louisville since Paul Hornung. "The kid has great hands, great feet," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "And he can catch the ball." Came out a year early after suffering a broken fibula and tibia in Week 1 of 2006. After bones failed to knit, a second titanium rod was inserted last month. Some doctors say he won't be ready until 2008 but one team with a doctor who examined him two weeks ago expects him to be ready in '07. Compared by two scouts to T.J. Duckett, by another to a "niftier Ron Dayne." Said a fourth scout: "He's a big finesse back. Not a power runner. He can make you miss a little bit." Finished with 2,508 yards (5.8), 39 TDs and 50 catches.
8. BRANDON JACKSON
Nebraska 5-10 208 4.51 3-4

Third-year junior. After two seasons as a backup and pair of shoulder operations, he broke from a backfield-by-committee situation to rush for 989 yards (5.3) and eight TDs in '06. "He runs hard," Buffalo assistant GM Tom Modrak said. "For me, he's not a big burst guy. He's sort of the old-school Steeler thing. He's going to average 3.8 but you know what you're getting." Scored 11 on the Wonderlic, low among the leading backs. "He has a low center of gravity," Softli said.
9. LORENZO BOOKER
Florida State 5-10 1/2 190 4.46 4

Started merely 16 of 47 games. "He won't be your featured guy but you can put him out (wide) and match him up," Hardaway said. "He's got hands. You ain't going to slam him up inside often but you can run zone schemes and get him on the edge." Ranks seventh on Seminoles' all-time list with 2,298 yards (4.8) and scored 13 TDs. Also caught 109 passes. "He is a quick son of a gun," one scout said. "Great kid. At the Senior Bowl he showed his elusiveness in the open field. He's never returned kicks but he could do it."
10. KOLBY SMITH
Louisville 5-11 218 4.50 4

Destined for another season backing up when Bush went down. Responded with 780 yards in 138 carries (5.7) and seven TDs. Had just four starts before '06. "He's my sleeper," one scout said. "Hold me to it. He knows how to run and put his shoulder down. He can be a change of pace type. He can block." Finished with 300 carries for 1,781 yards (5.9). Solid receiver. "Decent speed for a guy that size but vision is very limited and can't create on his own," another scout said. "Given their wide-open system, he never did much. I don't see him being a player."

OTHERS: DeShawn Wynn, Florida; Darius Walker, Notre Dame; Tyrone Moss, Miami; Garrett Wolfe, Northern Illinois; Selvin Young, Texas; Ramonce Taylor, ex-Texas; D.D. Terry, Sam Houston State; Alonzo Coleman, Hampton; Justise Hairston, Central Connecticut State; Ronnie McGill, North Carolina; Kenneth Darby, Alabama; Jon Cornish, Kansas; Thomas Clayton, Kansas State.

NFL Draft Analysis: Fullbacks
FULLBACK

School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. BRIAN LEONARD
Rutgers 6-1 1/2 226 4.52 3

Weighed 238 a year ago but deliberately trimmed down to 226 for the combine. "He wants to be a running back," Hardaway said. "He's a Rocky Balboa is what he is. You love that guy. He will be good in your locker room. He's a throwback." Four-year starter with 2,779 yards (4.1), 32 TDs and 207 receptions. Will try to become the NFL's first Caucasian 1,000-yard rusher since New England's Craig James in 1985. Some label him a fullback, others say halfback. Compared by one scout to Jim Kiick. "If you try to get him in at fullback and just pound him all the time, it's not going to work," Ross said. "If you try to play him at running back and give him the ball, you're not going to be happy, either. You'll have a very good player if you have him block on the edges when he's at fullback and catch the ball out of the backfield."
2. LeRON McCLAIN
Alabama 6-0 250 4.79 3-4

"You want a fullback, McClain's the guy," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. "Good blocker. Catches it. Good player." Starter since mid-2004. Carried 37 times for 170 yards (4.6) and caught 48 passes. "He's probably the best (blocker) I've seen in a long, long time," Philadelphia GM Tom Heckert said. "Plus, he's got some run skills. He's by far the best fullback in the draft." Outstanding Senior Bowl.
3. DWAYNE WRIGHT
Fresno State 5-11 1/2 225 4.66 4

Former junior-college player who sat out all 2005 with a torn patellar tendon. Started 22 of 28 games strictly as a running back at Fresno State. Lacks speed but might be able to bulk up and play fullback. "Eventually, I think his best spot will be fullback," one scout said. Hard-nosed inside runner with 501 carries for 2,683 yards (5.4) and 16 TDs. Also caught 51 passes. "If Chris Henry had Dwayne Wright's savvy with the ball he'd be a top 10-15 pick," another scout said. "Wright is a power, downhill runner. Good back. He just doesn't run very fast. He can catch. Tough guy." Mature, driven individual.
4. CORY ANDERSON
Tennessee 6-2 244 4.68 5

Moved from defensive end to fullback in 2004 and started three seasons. "Kind of like (Mike) Alstott, one of those guys who sees himself as a runner," Angelo said. "Inconsistent as a blocker .. but he'll block. Very athletic. Good hands. Can run. Very talented guy."
5. JACKIE BATTLE
Houston 6-2 235 4.46 5-6

Wowed scouts at his pro day with blazing 40 and 41-inch vertical jump. "Greatest workout of anybody I've seen this spring," Brocato said. "Ran terrifically fast. I had him to go in the fifth or sixth round on the school call but now he may go before that." Started 15 of 41 games at running back, finished with 2,120 yards (4.8) and 31 TDs. Unreliable, infrequent receiver. "Workout warrior," one scout said. "I don't think he's tough and physical enough to play fullback. Thinks of himself as a halfback. Doesn't play powerful and physical."


OTHERS: Gijon Robinson, Missouri Western; Jason Snelling, Virginia; Deon Anderson, Connecticut; BranDon Snow, Penn State; Obi Oluigbo, Michigan; Orenthal O'Neal, Arkansas State; Tim Castille, Alabama.

[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Analysis: Quarterbacks

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top quarterbacks in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.

QUARTERBACK

School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.
1. JaMARCUS RUSSELL
Louisiana State 6-5 1/2 258 4.85 1

Fourth-year junior. "He's more talented than Quinn," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "He's more talented than a lot of people. On talent alone, he's a bigger version of Steve McNair." Started 29 of 36 games (25-4 record), posted NFL passer rating of 99.0 for career and 114.3 in 2006. "He's big, moves good and has an unreal arm," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. "He's come a long way from last year, even early this year." On the laid-back side and hasn't had to work very hard. Loves to eat and showed up at the combine out of shape at 265. "He's very deliberate," one scout said. "I just don't see him being a quick decision-maker. It's like he's got one (targeted) guy. Vince (Young) was more natural. He couldn't always tell you why he did it but you never saw him do the stuff this guy does, like forcing the ball into coverage." Eight of his victories came after late comebacks.
2. BRADY QUINN
Notre Dame 6-3 1/2 233 4.76 1

Replaced Carlyle Holiday as starter early in '03 and went on to start 46 games. "He's got a good arm, he's got good mobility, he's smart as hell (29 on the Wonderlic test) and two or three years down the road I think he'll be a really good player," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "They say, 'Look, he doesn't play well in the big games.' Well, there were some big games he played well in. I coached at Notre Dame. The pressure on a kid playing quarterback at Notre Dame is immense, and he did it for four years." Struggled in '06 losses to Michigan, USC and LSU. "Really a good athlete but you worry about him under pressure and how much of a program guy he is," one scout said. "He's not real creative on his own." Passer ratings of 104.4 in '06, 90.6 for career. Often ripped for his accuracy. "He'll be CEO of a company some day," another scout said. "You bring Quinn in, he's bright, articulate, very, very intense. The thing that bothers you is the big games and he's not accurate."
3. TRENT EDWARDS
Stanford 6-4 225 4.76 2-3

"He has a better arm than Quinn," Minnesota personnel consultant Jerry Reichow said. "He can fire the ball, and he's big. From Stanford, he's got to be smart (32 on the Wonderlic)." Limited to 31 starts (10-21) over four seasons by shoulder injuries and a broken foot. "When you see Trent Edwards on the hoof and he's sound and healthy, you say, 'This guy can play. Wow. He's really something,'" Polian said. "Unfortunately, he's been beaten and broken." Played behind what one scout called a "hideous" offensive line but never asked out and absorbed untold punishment. Finished with passer rating of 73.1. "He doesn't have a real athletic release even though it's quick," one scout said. "He's a tight-shouldered guy who can't adjust and throw off balance. It restricts what he can do."
4. DREW STANTON
Michigan State 6-3 228 4.75 2-3

Another player on a bad team. "His receivers couldn't catch helium-filled balloons, he lost both running backs and the defense was awful," one scout said. "What chance did he have? He has first-round ability." Rushed for 1,512 yards and 15 TDs as a 2 1/2 year starter. A legendary tough guy who needed reconstructive knee surgery in 2003 after being injured covering kicks. "He's got a good arm, he's accurate, he's got a good release, he's very mobile and he's a great competitor," Polian said. Posted passer rating of 90.5. Led top quarterbacks with 35 on Wonderlic. Some scouts question his decision-making, accuracy and straight-line running style. "Playground player," another scout said.
5. KEVIN KOLB
Houston 6-3 218 4.85 3

"He's the sleeper in this draft," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. Started all 50 games over four years, posted passer rating of 97.8 in a spread offense. His quarterbacks coach for five years, Philip Montgomery, also served as his high-school coach all four years. "He's played in the same system for 1,000 years," Buffalo assistant GM Tom Modrak said. "Physically, he's good. He's an athlete, he can throw the ball. It will take him a little bit of time." Fourth in Division I-A passing annals with 12,964 yards. "He'd be a good backup and eventually be a starter if you bring him along," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "He's tough, he's got size. I think he needs to improve his accuracy. I think if you just calm him down, let him set in the pocket and throw the football, I think he'll be all right." Had a rough week at the Senior Bowl. Scored 28 on the Wonderlic.
6. JOHN BECK
Brigham Young 6-2 216 4.75 3-4

Spent 2 1/2 years on a mission out of high school, then struggled in '03 and '04. Improved each year and finished with passer rating of 95.1, including 116.2 as senior. "He's a super-mature guy," Philadelphia GM Tom Heckert said. "He's confident, accurate and not real mobile. He's got a strong enough arm." Will be 26 in August. Had 30 on the Wonderlic. "He reminds me of (Marc) Bulger," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. "Got great anticipation. More of a finesse-type passer." Played with his injured foot in a boot most of the season. "He's Jon Gruden's type of quarterback," one scout said. "Nice quick decisions. Very accurate. If he wasn't 26 he'd be up there with the rest of them."
7. TROY SMITH
Ohio State 6-0 223 4.83 4

Won Heisman Trophy in a landslide. "He put together a beautiful 11-game span," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "In a lot of the wins, they weren't because of other guys, it was because of him. True leader. Very respected by Ohio State. Strong arm. I've never seen a guy develop more in a year than Troy." Rushed for 1,168 yards and 14 TDs, posted passer rating of 108.7. Has a tight-shouldered, almost baseball delivery. Wonderlic score of 15. "Against a very talented Florida team their defensive line beat Ohio State's offensive line," one scout said. "That was the bottom line there. But he's short." Turned off some scouts this spring by blowing off some appointments. "He's a very nice college player," another scout said. "I didn't think he was that great a thrower and he was really helped by a great group of receivers."
8. TYLER PALKO
Pittsburgh 6-1 1/2 213 4.83 4-5

Team captain and starter from 2004-'06. "He tried to win at all costs thinking that he was the only horse pulling the whole wagon and did some bone-headed things in his career," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "But his father coached him, he's been football all his life and I wouldn't count him out." Smart, determined and gutty. Said one scout: "Overconfident kid. Thinks he's much better than what he is." Posted passer rating of 95.2, including 110.4 in '06. "I really liked him before he went to the Senior Bowl," one scout said. "He doesn't have enough arm. If he ever throws an out it's going to be in the end zone ... the wrong end zone. It's a shame. But guys are going to sit and wait on his throws."
9. ISAIAH STANBACK
Washington 6-2 1/2 216 4.45 3-5

Was coming into his own in '06 after bouncing between quarterback and wide receiver early in career when he suffered a Lisfranc foot injury in Week 8 and had surgery. Still not 100%. "He's entitled to a shot at quarterback," one scout said. "If it doesn't work, then he certainly brings a tremendous amount of athleticism that could move to another position." Top sprinter for the Huskies' track team, superior athlete and well-versed in football. "He's not a quarterback," another scout said. "He's like the kid out of Missouri (Brad Smith) who went to the Jets." Started 19 of 36 games, passer rating of 80.2.
10. JORDAN PALMER
Texas-El Paso 6-5 1/2 229 4.98 5

Dead ringer for his brother, Carson, who is four years older. "He's going to get drafted late because of his brother," one scout said. "He's a big ol' boy. He's just not accurate. Pretty fair arm." Doesn't react well to pressure, puts the ball up for grabs (64 interceptions) and takes too many sacks. Passer rating of 86.0.

OTHERS: Jared Zabransky, Boise State; Jeff Rowe, Nevada; Chris Leak, Florida; John Stocco, Wisconsin; Matt Gutierrez, Idaho State; James Pinkney, East Carolina; Matt Moore, Oregon State; Sam Hollenbach, Maryland; Paul Thompson, Oklahoma; Zac Taylor, Nebraska; Toby Korrodi, Central Missouri State.

[PaCkFan_n_MD]

I am really starting to believe we should take a WR in round one. I like Bowe and Rice a lot. However, I think Rice will make it to round two. The more I think about it, the less I see a need for Moss because it wouldn't really make sense to trade for a WR when you have one of the most deepest WR classes that I have ever seen. You could potentially be getting a pro bowler in the second round if you get lucky.

[Bretsky]

I am really starting to believe we should take a WR in round one. I like Bowe and Rice a lot. However, I think Rice will make it to round two. The more I think about it, the less I see a need for Moss because it wouldn't really make sense to trade for a WR when you have one of the most deepest WR classes that I have ever seen. You could potentially be getting a pro bowler in the second round if you get lucky.

He may slip into the second, but IMO he'll almost surely be gone before the Packers pick in round two. Personally I think the Chargers are picking him in round one.

Looking at comments about Ginn, he brings some of the same concerns of being a potential "me" guy that Lynch does.

Gotta like the comments regarding Gonzalez and Steve Smith as potential round two prospects

[RashanGary]

Did they do Linebackers yet B?

Thanks by the way, McGinn is one of the best at this.

[Bretsky]

Did they do Linebackers yet B?

Thanks by the way, McGinn is one of the best at this.

No LB"s yet; but stay tuned as you'll find it in here once he does.

[RashanGary]

I'm kind of curious what scouts have to say about Willis

[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Analysis: Defensive lineman
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top defensive linemen in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.

NFL Draft Analysis: DEFENSIVE ENDS

DEFENSIVE END
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.

1. GAINES ADAMS
Clemson 6-4 1/2 260 4.64
1
"If you had to draw up the prototypical defensive end, knowing the emphasis is on pass rush, he is that," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. "Athletically, he's very gifted. Probably didn't run the blistering time that people wanted but he ran fast. Natural pass rusher. Versus the run, inconsistent. If you want to bang him you can bang him on that. Not necessarily the nastiest guy that ever played the game. Certainly competitive." Played eight-man prep football in South Carolina and spent one year at a prep school to get his grades in order. Scored just 7 on the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test. "Probably a little more powerful than Simeon Rice but not that fast," Tennessee director of player personnel Rich Snead said. "You just worry that he might be a little passive. You watch him get pushed and he doesn't push back sometimes." Finished with 168 tackles (44 1/2 for loss), 28 sacks and nine turnover-causing plays. Similar to but probably not as explosive as DeMarcus Ware. Bigger than Jason Taylor. Tremendous arm length (35 3/4 inches). "I saw him live three times," one scout said. "He takes a lot of plays off. He's 50% a lot of the time."

2. JAMAAL ANDERSON
Arkansas 6-5 1/2 286 4.80

1
Runs after the catch like the running back that he was for a time in high school. "Best run after the catch in the draft," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. His running dimension led Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway to draw a comparison with Andre Rison. Fourth-year junior sat out '03 with torn knee cartilage, then made just two starts in 2004-'05. Exploded in '06 with 71 catches, 1,298 yards (18.3) and 11 TDs. "Rare combination of size and speed," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "I worry about the hands some." Not a true vertical receiver but does have a burst and sensational athleticism. "He's strong, can catch and can make plays after the catch," one scout said. "But he's got no feel for zones. He's kind of stiff in the hips and struggles in and out of breaks. His routes aren't very good, either."

3. ADAM CARRIKER
Nebraska 6-6 295 4.85

1
Probably best suited as a 3-4 end. Also could play left end or possibly three-technique in a 4-3. "I don't think I've seen a guy with his hands and leverage," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "He's just got great strength in his hands. Great technician. I think he can control a tackle." Likes being called by nickname "Ivan Drago," the Russian heavyweight in "Rocky IV." Three-year starter with 134 tackles (41 for loss) and 20 1/2 sacks. "He's a guy that grows on you the closer you get to the draft because he's a safe pick," San Francisco scout Trent Baalke said. "The value is his versatility. He's a big, smart, tough lineman. He'll be a better pro than college player." Led top D-linemen in the Wonderlic with 28. "First thing (Nebraska coach) Bill Callahan said to me was he has to be a tackle," one scout said. "I really like him because he's so tough but he's not one of those quick, loose, athletic guys."

4. JARVIS MOSS
Florida 6-6 1/2 254 4.72 1-2
Explosive edge pass rusher. "I think he does have more rush skills than Adams but Adams has more potential and has done it," one scout said. "When he puts his hand on the ground he's way better than standing up. Like Jevon Kearse. And he's a better player than (Shawne) Merriman coming out." Fourth-year junior with 87 tackles (22 for loss) and 15 sacks. Started just 13 games. One of the weakest D-linemen in the draft, bench-pressed 225 pounds just 16 times. "He's going to have to get a whole lot stronger," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. Others have major reservations about his character. "Smart, sharp kid," another scout said. "But he's a con man. You're going to have a headache with him."

5. ANTHONY SPENCER
Purdue 6-2 1/2 263 4.71

1-2
Not as gifted as Moss but a more complete player. "He's talented and he just knows how to play," Ross said. "He went up against Levi Brown, Joe Thomas, Ryan Harris, the Hawaii tackles and gave them all fits. You don't have to look for film of him playing against somebody good." Three-year starter with 155 tackles (44 for loss), 21 sacks and 13 turnover plays. "Not just a pass rusher," Heckert said. "He can play the run and he plays his (expletive) off. He makes a lot of tackles where a lot of guys don't. He is a little short." Angelo compared his intensity to Merriman's. Another scout thought he'd be best-suited for a 3-4 linebacking role ala Joey Porter's.

6. VICTOR ABIAMIRI
Notre Dame 6-4 267 4.81 1-2
Left end in a 4-3 who could bulk up and function in a 3-4. "Good pass rusher and he can play the run well," Angelo said. "He'll be a better pro because they'll just let him go up-field. Not special on any down but good on all three." Two-year starter with 128 tackles (40 for loss) and 20 1/2 sacks. "He'll be a starter in the league," one scout said. "I don't know how really professionally drive he is about football. Smart as hell." Had 27 on the Wonderlic. Added another scout: "Little tightness keeps him from being real good. He's there to make a play but he just doesn't quite make it. For a 3-4 team he could line up on the tackle and knock hell out of him and keep guys off linebackers."

7. LaMARR WOODLEY
Michigan 6-1 1/2 266 4.81 1-2
Three-year starter who spent 2004-'05 at outside linebacker before putting his hand down in '06. "You'd be happy to have him on your team," Snead said. "I don't know if he'll ever be super." Short and not all that fast. Compensates for some physical deficiencies with natural leverage, abnormally long arms (35 1/4 inches) and superior strength. "Great effort, great motor," one scout said. "But he struggles with big guys." Built along the lines of former Lion and Michigan end James Hall. Might not have the athletic ability to play linebacker in a 3-4 defense. Highly dedicated. Vocal team leader.

8. CHARLES JOHNSON
Georgia 6-2 272 4.84

2
Third-year junior who didn't start a game until '06. "He's a stronger, more physical at the point guy," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "He's not a real burner off the edge. He gives you good effort. Seems to be a good worker." Finished with 73 tackles (29 1/2 for loss), 14 1/2 sacks and nine turnover plays. Doesn't locate the ball real well. "He's a nasty, tough street guy," one scout said. "There will be some maintenance on him. But he's got a good first step. Quick off the ball. Hard-nosed player." Another scout wasn't convinced. "He got all these sacks and pressures ... against Middle Tennessee," he said. "He was a big wheel, and he ain't a big wheel anymore."

9. TIM CROWDER
Texas 6-3 1/2 272 4.69 2-3
Only four-year starter among the leading ends. "The more I watch him, he and Gaines (Adams) are the two most explosive guys with their first step," one scout said. "But I still can't give him a top grade because I don't think he's a tough guy. He's not a guy that finishes. People get their hands on him and he stops." Turned it up at the Senior Bowl but otherwise lacked intensity. "For a guy that's supposed to have athletic ability he don't play worth a flip," another scout said. "I'd rather have (Brian) Robison. I don't know if he'll give you a day's work or not." Finished with 191 tackles (40 for loss), 19 sacks and 12 turnover plays. "Underachiever," a third scout said. "I see just an average player on film."

10. IKAIKA ALAMA-FRANCIS
Hawaii 6-5 278 4.86 2-3
Played basketball only in '02, then walked on for football in '03 weighing 215. Two-year starter with 112 tackles (21 1/2 for loss), 10 sacks and 10 turnover plays. "He's a big man that played the 3-4 and the 4-3 at Hawaii and has the size to do it," Angelo said. "Good pass rusher, not great. Good run player, not great. He's like Carriker." Son of "Pineapple" Joe Francis, who played 24 games and threw 49 passes for the Packers in 1958-'59. Didn't play football in high school. Still recovering from a torn pectoral muscle suffered at the Hula Bowl. "Tremendous upside," one scout said. "Hasn't played a lot of football. Fast, strong, well-built, lot of heart."

OTHERS: Brian Robison, Texas; Quentin Moses, Georgia; Dan Bazuin, Central Michigan; Baraka Atkins, Miami; Jay Moore, Nebraska; Victor DeGrate, Oklahoma State; Jacob Ford, Central Arkansas; Chase Pittman, Louisiana State; Jay Richardson, Ohio State; Keyunta Dawson, Texas Tech; Melila Purcell, Hawaii; Joe Cohen, Florida.

NFL Draft Analysis: DEFENSIVE TACKLES

DEFENSIVE TACKLE
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.

1. AMOBI OKOYE
Louisville 6-2 301 4.90

1
Born and raised in Nigeria, came with his family to Huntsville, Ala., at 12 and was starting on the varsity as a 13-year-old sophomore. Won't turn 20 until June 10. "He's an NBA-type pick," Polian said. "I rarely say this about a player but this guy has a lot of up-side. 19 years old. What's he going to be like when he's 24?" A blend of power and quickness. "During the season he played like a third-rounder," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "A first-rounder usually entails dominant force and high motor. Then he went to the Senior Bowl and basically dominated all the guys that were there. Basically, he's not even a man yet." Two-year starter with 121 tackles (23 for loss) and 10 1/2 sacks. Scored 16 on the Wonderlic. "I think people are getting carried away because he's 19," one scout said. "I thought he was a jump-around guy. I didn't think he could play square. I didn't think he was powerful. I didn't think he was a tough, physical guy."

2. JUSTIN HARRELL
Tennessee 6-4 1/2 314 5.06 1
Last man to wear No. 92, Reggie White's jersey. "That was for a reason," Angelo said. "Very talented guy. In the end, he could be the best DT." Would have started for three seasons but suffered a torn biceps in Week 3 of 2006 and had surgery. "He's a two-gap nose tackle," said Ross. "Not going to give you a lot of pass rush, range and stuff. If you want somebody just to sit in there and plug it up in the middle, he's the guy." Finished with 82 tackles (14 for loss) and four sacks. His Wonderlic score of 24 was high among top D-tackles. "Good use of hands to shed, good short pursuit, real tough and doesn't take downs off," one scout said. "More of a bull rusher and a pocket pusher."

3. ALAN BRANCH
Michigan 6-5 1/2 328 5.08 1
Third-year junior and two-year starter. "I like him very much," one scout said. "He's got a ways to go, he plays high, he doesn't use his hands well, he's on the ground sometimes. But how many guys that big can run like him? They don't make them like that." Hails from New Mexico. Described as a "gentle giant" by his father. Returned five punts for touchdowns in high school. "For people who like big, he can do it all," Polian said. Projects as a nose tackle. "The one thing he can do is play over the center," another scout said. "You can just let him beat on (the center) and power rush him." Finished with 61 tackles (15 for loss), nine sacks and eight turnover plays. "He stinks," a third scout said. "When did he have a good game? I never see him defeat people one-on-one. Can't change direction. He's real narrow and falls down. No quick twitch to him. Two years from now he'll be playing in Europe." Saving grace for some teams is his agreeable personality and 20 on the Wonderlic.

4. RAY McDONALD
Florida 6-3 1/2 279 4.90 1-2
"Just a great football player but kind of caught in-between," one scout said. "He's not a true DE or a true DT. But the guy is crafty. When he plays end he's strong as can be. He just doesn't have the speed to rush the passer. When he's inside he's real quick rushing the passer but he's not strong enough to consistently hold in there." However, he was rejected medically by some teams because of two reconstructive knee operations in '05. "If he didn't have the knees he'd be my top D-lineman," another scout said. "He's better than La'Roi Glover. Plays with better leverage and is more powerful. And he can rush the passer." Started 36 of 46 games, finished with 137 tackles (25 1/2 for loss) and 11 sacks.

5. TANK TYLER
North Carolina State 6-2 306 5.26 2
Started 28 of 47 games, finishing with 107 tackles (22 1/2 for loss) and 5 1/2 sacks. Best bench-presser at the combine with 42 reps. "He has it all," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "Speed, size, physical play. He's done it. You know he can do it." Rated a better D-tackle by one scout than John McCargo, a former teammate and the 26th pick in '06. "The proponents of big are going to love Tank Tyler," Polian said. "He's a massive guy who can't rush the passer and can't run, but he's quick and agile. He can do a lot of things." Turned off some teams for once spitting in the direction of an official and other character issues. "Just a pain in the (expletive)," one scout said.

6. TURK McBRIDE
Tennessee 6-2 1/2 282 4.81 2-3
Made just four starts before '06, serving mostly as a rotational end. Started at tackle after Harrell was injured. "It's hard to get a read on him because they played him at end so much," Snead said. "He's got to be on the move. He's got quickness." Weight has fluctuated. One scout said that he played the season at 266 but was 277 at the combine and then 288 at pro day. "He'll have to be a three-technique," one scout said. "He's got quickness. He's just small." Very competitive player. Finished with 121 tackles (20 1/2 for loss) and 6 1/2 sacks.

7. BRANDON MEBANE
California 6-1 304 5.15 2-3
Three-year starter with 109 tackles (26 1/2 for loss) and 14 1/2 sacks. "He's a 4-3 one-gap DT," Baalke said. "He doesn't have ideal height. He's a power guy. He's a better run player than pass rusher. He's a two-down player." Made money during the Senior Bowl week, showing scouts some pass rush. "If you look at him in practice and one-on-one work, not in a team concept, the guy is powerful and explosive and quick," one scout said. "But when it all gets put together he's got some learning deficiencies. I don't think he can think on his feet well enough and that shows up." Fits best for a Tony Dungy-type defense. "He plays his butt off," said Gruden. "Good endurance. Explosive. Short, though."

8. MARCUS THOMAS
Florida 6-2 1/2 314 5.32 3-4
"He's a player," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. "He is the best defensive tackle. He can move laterally, shed on the move and clear his feet through traffic. He's not a bad kid, either. He's a good kid." Was dismissed in mid-2006, reportedly for marijuana use. "To get kicked out of that school ... with all the conduct stuff now I have no idea where he goes," one scout said. Still, he was regarded as a team leader. About 20 of his ex-teammates drove from Gainesville to Jacksonville in March to support him during his individual pro day. "He was the best player on the field at Florida," another scout said. "He has such a snap in his (expletive). Just a tough kid. Run and make plays." Started 31 of 41 games, finishing with 157 tackles (28 for loss) and 14 sacks.

9. PAUL SOLIAI
Utah 6-4 332 5.05 3-4
Played guard in junior college, redshirted at Utah in '04 and moved to defense in '05, eventually starting 12 of 24 games. "He's got a chance," Minnesota personnel consultant Jerry Reichow said. "He can move like hell. He can slide and get down the line. Then he'd get caught in no man's land like, 'What do I do now?'" Scored 9 on the Wonderlic and it showed at times in his play. "He can do all the stuff that Branch does but he only plays about five plays a game," one scout said." Our coach asked him if he enjoyed pass rushing. He said, 'Coach, that takes a lot of effort. I just like to stand at the line of scrimmage.'" Finished with 40 tackles (5 for loss) and 3 1/2 sacks.

10. KAREEM BROWN
Miami 6-4 290 5.41 3-4
Classic underachiever. "He's a guy who can play the run and rush the passer," Snead said. "Then you put on games early and you think he was just horrible. He came on later in the season." After backing up at end for three years, he started at tackle in '06 and had 11 sacks, one-half more than Warren Sapp and Russell Maryland had in their final seasons for Miami. "Big, fat and lazy," one scout said. "Out of shape. But he has ability." Finished with 157 tackles (33 1/2 for loss) and 20 1/2 sacks.

OTHERS: Ryan McBean, Oklahoma State; Antonio Johnson, Mississippi State; Derek Landri, Notre Dame; Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State; Jay Alford, Penn State; Xzavie Jackson, Missouri; Kelly Talavou, Utah; Greg Peterson, North Carolina Central; Joe Anoai, Georgia Tech; Walter Thomas, Northwest Mississippi Junior College; Matt Toeaina, Oregon; Keith Jackson, Arkansas.

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's WR Rankings:

1. CALVIN JOHNSON
2. ROBERT MEACHEM
3. SIDNEY RICE
4. DWAYNE BOWE
5. TED GINN JR.
6. JASON HILL
7. DWAYNE JARRETT
8. CRAIG DAVIS
9. STEVE SMITH
10. PAUL WILLIAMS
11. ANTHONY GONZALEZ
12. MIKE WALKER
13. STEVE BREASTON

Bulldog, what do you think of Breaston?
ND, what do you think of McKnight?

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's TE Rankings:

1. GREG OLSEN
2. ZACH MILLER
3. SCOTT CHANDLER
4. MATT SPAETH
5. KEVIN BOSS
6. BEN PATRICK
7. MARTREZ MILNER
8. MICHAEL ALLAN

[Partial]

Meachem and Jamaal Anderson have the same write-ups.

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's OT Rankings:

1. JOE THOMAS
2. LEVI BROWN
3. JOE STALEY
4. TONY UGOH
5. RYAN HARRIS
6. DOUG FREE
7. JAMES MARTEN
8. ADAM KOETS
9. MIKE OTTO
10. MARIO HENDERSON

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's OG Rankings:

1. BEN GRUBBS
2. JUSTIN BLALOCK
3. ARRON SEARS
4. ANDY ALLEMAN
5. ALLEN BARBRE
6. DAN SANTUCCI
7. MANUEL RAMIREZ
8. MARSHAL YANDA
9. JOSH BEEKMAN
10. JULIUS WILSON

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's OC Rankings:

1. RYAN KALIL
2. DOUG DATISH
3. SAMSON SATELE
4. LeROY HARRIS
5. SCOTT STEPHENSON

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's RB Rankings:

1. ADRIAN PETERSON
2. MARSHAWN LYNCH
3. ANTONIO PITTMAN
4. KENNY IRONS
5. BRIAN LEONARD
6. BRANDON JACKSON
7. DARIUS WALKER
8. TONY HUNT
9. MICHAEL BUSH
10. KOLBY SMITH
11. CHRIS HENRY
12. DESHAWN WYNN
13. LORENZO BOOKER

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's QB Rankings:

1. JAMARCUS RUSSELL
2. BRADY QUINN
3. DREW STANTON
4. KEVIN KOLB
5. TRENT EDWARDS
6. TROY SMITH
7. JOHN BECK
8. JORDAN PALMER
9. JARED ZABRANSKY
10. JEFF ROWE

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's DE Rankings:

1. JAMAAL ANDERSON
2. GAINES ADAMS
3. ADAM CARRIKER
4. ANTHONY SPENCER
5. TIM CROWDER
6. VICTOR ABIAMIRI
7. JARVIS MOSS
8. CHARLES JOHNSON
9. IKAIKA ALAMA-FRANCIS (father played for the Packers)
10. LaMARR WOODLEY
11. DAN BAZUIN
12. QUENTIN MOSES

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's DT Rankings:

1. AMOBI OKOYE
2. JUSTIN HARRELL
3. ALAN BRANCH
4. QUINN PITCOCK
5. BRANDON MEBANE
6. DEMARCUS TYLER
7. MARCUS THOMAS
8. RAY McDONALD
9. TURK McBRIDE
10. KAREEM BROWN
11. DEREK LANDRI
12. ANTONIO JOHNSON

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's LB Rankings:

1. PATRICK WILLIS
2. LAWRENCE TIMMONS
3. PAUL POSLUSZNY
4. JON BEASON
5. DAVID HARRIS
6. JUSTIN DURANT
7. TIM SHAW
8. BUSTER DAVIS
9. ZAC DEOSSIE
10. BRANDON SILER
11. QUINCY BLACK
12. ANTWAN BARNES

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's CB Rankings:

1. DARRELLE REVIS
2. LEON HALL
3. AARON ROSS
4. CHRIS HOUSTON
5. MARCUS MCCAULEY
6. JONATHAN WADE
7. TRAVAROUS BAIN
8. ERIC WRIGHT
9. DAVID IRONS
10. KENNY SCOTT
11. JOSH WILSON
12. FRED BENNETT

[HarveyWallbangers]

Wallbanger's S Rankings:

1. LARON LANDRY
2. REGGIE NELSON
3. MICHAEL GRIFFIN
4. ERIC WEDDLE
5. BRANDON MERIWEATHER
6. AARON ROUSE
7. TANARD JACKSON
8. SABBY PISCITELLI
9. JOSH GATTIS
10. JOHN WENDLING
11. MICHAEL JOHNSON
12. CRAIG DAHL (homer pick)

[Fritz]

Sabby Piscitelli - wasn't he a character on The Sopranos?

[Bretsky]

Bob McGinn
E-MAIL

Green Bay - In an off year for linebackers, Mississippi's Patrick Willis is a heavy favorite among National Football League personnel men as the best on the inside and Florida State's Lawrence Timmons rates the edge on the outside.

But the form chart means almost nothing because the next two in line, Miami's Jon Beason and Penn State's Paul Posluszny, come from schools with linebacker-producing traditions unmatched in college football.

Since 1960, Penn State has had 19 linebackers selected in the first three rounds. Six of them - Dave Robinson, Jack Ham, Matt Millen, Lance Mehl, Shane Conlan and LaVar Arrington - combined to make a total of 19 Pro Bowls, and Ham was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Although Miami did spawn Hall of Famer Ted Hendricks back in 1969, the program didn't move into the big time under the early 1980s. Twelve Hurricane linebackers in all have gone in the first three rounds, and Hendricks, Ray Lewis, Dan Morgan and Jon Vilma have combined for 17 Pro Bowls.
Another ex-Hurricane, Jessie Armstead, made the Pro Bowl five times after being picked in the eighth round in 1993. Since then, the real "Linebacker U" has been Miami given the fact it has four first-round picks and three seconds compared to one first and no seconds for Penn State.

Few scouts are forecasting greatness for either Beason or Posluszny. Then again, almost no one is ruling it out.

"Beason is your typical Miami linebacker," said Tom Heckert, general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles. "Super instinctive. They're all like that. I don't know how they get them but they do."

Physically, Beason is almost a clone of Lewis, Vilma and D.J. Williams when they came out. All four measured between 6 feet 1/4 inch to 6-0 3/4, all were fairly comparable in weight and all had fairly comparable Wonderlic intelligence test scores.

Beason's 40-yard dash time of 4.72 was somewhat disappointing and probably will prevent him from fitting into the top 20 picks. But while Williams (4.59) and Vilma (4.66) clearly were faster, it should be remembered that Lewis ran almost exactly the same time (4.73).

"Beason's really instinctive, real good athlete, reacts quick, plays fast," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. "He's not Vilma or D.J. Williams but he's just a notch below."

Beason signed with Miami as a safety but played fullback as a true freshman in 2003, the position Williams also played in his first year. Beason observed Vilma and Williams as a youngster, then won a job at linebacker late in '04.

"When you come to the University of Miami to play linebacker, you want to be like those guys," Beason said. "You have big shoes to fill and a lot pressure on you but it's a good thing. It's a repeating cycle."

Posluszny received the ultimate compliment last year when Ham, an analyst on the Nittany Lions' radio network, labeled him the greatest linebacker in Penn State history.

"When I heard he made that comment I was in shock," Posluszny said. "For him to make a comment like that, I was just extremely honored. He's the greatest linebacker ever from Penn State."

Coach Joe Paterno has compared Posluszny (6-1 1/2, 237, 4.66) to Conlan (6-2 1/2, 226, 4.65), the eighth pick in 1987. In '06, he changed his jersey from No. 39 to Conlan's old No. 31, hoping to follow in his footsteps.

Posluszny, a native of Aliquippa, Pa., did break the Penn State record for tackles with 372. He was the Nittany Lions' first captain to come from the junior class since 1968. And he won the Butkus Award in 2005 as the nation's best linebacker over A.J. Hawk.

"When he was a junior, before he hurt his knee, he would have been a high first-rounder," Tampa Bay personnel analyst Jim Gruden said. "Because he made all the plays. He was sideline to sideline.

"He's smart, he's got good speed, he's 230 pounds of muscle and he'll be there every day. A.J. would be more talented but this guy was close."

Asked by the Journal Sentinel to rank their five favorite linebackers on a 1-to-5 basis, 18 personnel people with knowledge of the entire country gave Willis 11 first-place votes compared with three for Beason, two for Michigan's David Harris and one each for Timmons and Posluszny.

With a first-place vote worth five points, a second worth four and so on, Willis finished with 75 of a maximum 90 points.

Following, in order, were Timmons with 55, Posluszny with 51, Beason with 48, Harris with 29, Clemson's Anthony Waters with six, Florida State's Buster Davis with five and Florida's Brandon Siler with one.

After the top five players, many scouts say the linebacker group drops off precipitously.

NEXT: Defensive backs

[Bretsky]

NFL Draft Scouting Report: LINEBACKERS
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pro football writer Bob McGinn assesses the top linebackers in the draft next weekend. Included are each player's school, height, weight, 40-yard dash time and round in which he is projected to be selected.

INSIDE LINEBACKERS

LINEBACKER
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.

1. PATRICK WILLIS
Mississippi 6-1 237 4.39

1

Shot up based largely on five or six textbook run-stuffing plays in the Senior Bowl and a blistering 40 at the combine. "At the Senior Bowl I was really impressed with him, the way he can run for a big guy," Tampa Bay personnel consultant Jim Gruden said. "He was like a big cat." Fought through personal travails and injuries. His work ethic and football tunnel vision have been compared to A.J. Hawk's. "Led the (Southeastern) conference in tackles two years in a row, ran a great time, great kid," Chicago GM Jerry Angelo said. "Nothing not to like." Others question his instincts and change of direction. "He plays so side-to-side," one scout said. "Little bit of a long strider which may (affect) him in coverage. As a real good take-on guy he just doesn't do it very often." Finished with 355 tackles (33 for loss) and 11 sacks. "To me, he's Napoleon Harris," another scout said critically. "If he sees it he can go get it. He just doesn't always see it."

2. JON BEASON
Miami 6-0 233 4.72

1

Whether it's in the middle or on the weak side, he will bring energy and instincts. "He's my best linebacker," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "He plays physical and he's plays as fast as (Ray Lewis). I'm not saying he's Ray Lewis but he will be a good linebacker." Fourth-year junior with 171 tackles (18 for loss). "He's a really tough dude," Gruden said. "Plays hard. Great instinct. They say he's just like Jon Vilma. And every day in practice is a game for him." Not over the top like Lewis but a strong leader nonetheless. Showed his toughness in mid-2006 by missing just two with a sprained knee ligament. "He looks to me like a safety playing linebacker," one scout said. "A will backer in a 3-4 or a will in a 4-3 that you protect and let run. He can man cover. He's a perfect fit to replace Cato June in Indy."

3. DAVID HARRIS
Michigan 6-2 245 4.59

1-2

He's another player who helped him tremendously with fast 40 at the combine. "A very, very solid football player," Indianapolis President Bill Polian said. "And he ran better than everybody thought he would." Played all three downs at Michigan (196 tackles, 20 for loss) as a two-year starter and might have the speed to do the same in the NFL. "He's not the most explosive, take your head off kind of guy," one scout said. "But he runs well. He's athletic, he's smart (25 on the Wonderlic, high among top inside players), he's always in the right place." Underwent reconstructive knee surgery in '03.

4. ANTHONY WATERS
Clemson 6-2 1/2 238 4.68

2-3

Needed reconstructive knee surgery after Week 1 injury. "Had he not gotten hurt, he was a first-day guy," Arizona scout Jerry Hardaway said. "He and Timmons and Beason would all be right there." Ran a 4.68 this spring and is expected to be 100% by August. "People were shocked because he's six months removed from an ACL," one scout said. "The defensive coordinator (Vic Koenning) there is tough on players and liked this guy a lot." Started in the middle in '04, outside in '05. "Plays hard and he's tough," Buffalo national scout Marc Ross said. "Just more of a straight-line type of athlete." Finished with 217 tackles (22 1/2 for loss).

5. BUSTER DAVIS
Florida State 5-9 241 4.66

3

Diminutive three-year starter with 265 tackles (27 1/2 for loss) and eight sacks. "Great kid, really knows football, you pull for him," one scout said. "He got up there and was able to draw defenses and offenses. But it boils down to size. How many London Fletcher's are there? Do you want to spend that high of a pick on that type of a guy?" Fierce hitter. Some scouts say he made the plays whereas Lawrence Timmons stood around watching. "I wouldn't touch that guy," another scout said. "(Expletive), he thinks he's Dick Butkus. Talks all the time. It's fun for about two seconds."

6. BRANDON SILER
Florida 6-1 1/2 239 4.63

4

Started 31 of 37 games (218 tackles, 28 1/2 for loss) and declared a year early. "He made a mistake," one scout said. "Middle linebacker only. He just can't really run." Worked out poorly at the combine. "I guess his claim to fame is the championship game against OSU," another scout said. "He's as stiff as the pen you're using right now. He was surrounded by a bunch of good players." Understands the game well. Emotional leader of Seminoles.

7. MICHAEL OKWO
Stanford 5-11 1/2 231 4.70

4-5

Special-teams dynamo who didn't start until '06. Named MVP on a bad team. "Undersized, run-and-hit, weak-side linebacker," San Francisco scout Trent Baalke said. "He's got to be in that Colt-Tampa type defense where they can protect him and let him run and make plays." Managed 181 tackles (15 1/2 for loss). "He's a little bit like Freddie Keiaho (Colts, third round) last year," one scout said. "Very tough. He played with his hand in a cast most of the year."

8. TONY TAYLOR
Georgia 6-0 1/2 240 4.92

5

Started 35 of 49 games, missing all of '04 and four games of '05 with a blown knee. "Everybody had Taylor high until he ran that 40 and he just dropped off the map," Angelo said. "He still will play." Given his speed, probably has to play middle now. Intercepted an astonishing seven passes in '06 and had 17 turnovers plays in all. "All fluff," one scout said. "No substance."

9. H.B. BLADES
Pittsburgh 5-10 1/2 237 4.75

5-6

Three-year starter and Pitt MVP in '06. "He's short," one scout said. "It will be awful tough. He's a good little player but height will kill him." Father, Bennie Blades, the former Lions' safety, recently became more involved in his son's life. Finished with 433 tackles (28 for loss) and 15 turnovers plays. "Try-hard, undersized guy," another scout said. Father of twin daughters.

10. ZAK DeOSSIE
Brown 6-4 1/2 249 4.59

6

Father, Steve, played linebacker and long-snapped for four teams from 1984-'95. "He still has room to grow into his body and into his position from an awareness and instinct standpoint," Seattle scout Charles Fisher said. "He probably will fit more in a 3-4 mode outside. He has some athletic ability." Three-year starter with 315 tackles (36 1/2 for loss). Also has a chance to long snap. "More of an athletic guy that really runs around well than a guy that can stand in and play power ball," one scout said.

OTHERS: Desmond Bishop, California; Kelvin Smith, Syracuse; Blair Phillips, Oregon; Jon Abbate, Wake Forest; Thaddaeus Washington, Colorado; Marvin Mitchell, Tennessee; Mark Zalewski, Wisconsin; Chad Nkang, Elon; Quinton Culberson, Mississippi State; Oscar Lua, Southern California; Justin Warren, Texas A&M.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS

LINEBACKER
School HT. WT. 40-Yd. Dash Rd.

1. LAWRENCE TIMMONS
Florida State 6-1 233 4.66

1

Third-year junior who didn't start until '06, then ran a disappointing 40 at the combine. "We think he plays faster than he times," San Diego GM A.J. Smith said. "He can move around pretty good." Those that like him value his potential and hitting ability. "He's not as good as the guy (Kamerion Wimbley) that Cleveland took out of there last year but he's up there," one scout said. "This kid is the most explosive hitter of all the linebackers, of all the defensive players. He can play all three positions and also can put his hand down." Besides his speed, the concerns are his thin frame, average instincts and what some say is just adequate power. "He's young and immature," another scout said. "I don't know how mentally quick he is. That will eventually kill him. He's the one that has a chance to be the biggest flop." Finished with 126 tackles (22 1/2 for loss) and eight sacks.

2. PAUL POSLUSZNY
Penn State 6-1 1/2 237 4.66

1

What you see is what you get. "He'll play on smarts and anticipation and quickness and his love of the game," Polian said. "You'll always want him to have more punch but he doesn't have it in his body. He will be a very fine player." Broke Greg Buttle's school record for tackles with 372 (35 for loss), adding nine sacks and six turnover plays. Might have come out a year ago but suffered non-surgical ligament damage in the Orange Bowl. Then didn't move as freely in '06. "He's all right," one scout said. "He's a try-hard, self-made, smart (30 on the Wonderlic) guy. He's tough enough. I don't think he's special in anything. Does he know where to go? Yeah. Does he get there all the time? No." His statistics were almost the same each of his three starting seasons. "He kind of reminds me of Nick Barnett," Angelo said. "It's his intangibles. Everything about him is good."

3. STEWART BRADLEY
Nebraska 6-3 1/2 256 4.73

2-3

Bounced back from torn ACL in October 2005 to start 14 games in '06. "Big guy that can run," St. Louis VP Tony Softli said. "Not overly productive but aware in space. He can cover a tight end man. Tough guy." Strong-side linebacker all the way. Rapped for not being a more jarring tackler. "People that draft height-weight-speed will look at him in the latter part of the first day," Baalke said. "Stack him over a tight end. He played out in space a lot for them. Not a bad mover. Does a solid job in coverage." Three-year starter with 175 tackles (25 for loss) and eight turnover plays.

4. JUSTIN DURANT
Hampton 6-1 229 4.52

3-4

Three-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference defensive player of the year. "He played middle there but he can play other spots," one scout said. "He can run. He's got passion for the game." Looked right at home in the East-West game. "With his speed you want him in on third down," Angelo said. "He's good. Level of comp. Little more guesswork there." Had 353 tackles (47 for loss), 10 sacks and eight turnover plays. "Plays real hard," Ross said. "Fairly good instincts. Just an undersized guy and has problems taking on."

5. QUINCY BLACK
New Mexico 6-1 1/2 240 4.45

4

"He is not (Brian Urlacher), I can tell you that," Minnesota personnel consultant Jerry Reichow said. "He's a hard-playing kid. He might be a special-teamer." Paced all linebackers at the combine with 41 1/2-inch vertical jump. "On my watch he ran 4.42, 4.49," Tennessee national scout C.O. Brocato said. "Big guy that can run but he's not a face-up guy. As big as he is, he ought to cold-cock people. He don't do those things." Played at Chicago Kenwood High School, then spent two years at Harper Junior College. Two-year starter with 195 tackles (4 1/2 for loss). "He's built like an outhouse," Gruden said. "Huge."

6. TIM SHAW
Penn State 6-1 1/2 235 4.48

4-5

Arrived as a running back, started at inside linebacker in 2004-'05 before moving to a hybrid end position in '06. "Probably a 3-4 guy," Buffalo assistant GM Tom Modrak said. "He's an on-the-line guy who's a bit stiff but runs fast and plays hard. I don't think he always finds his way through traffic or to the ball. Now when he has a straight line to it and open space he can run and close, which is exciting." Also worked out extremely well. "He could be an outside linebacker or maybe move him back to running back," one scout said. "He's a very fast, straight-line guy." Finished with 177 tackles (16 for loss) and 12 sacks.

7. STEPHEN NICHOLAS
South Florida 6-1 229 4.65

5

Started 45 of 50 games. Will be 24 May 1. "He can run," one scout said. "Gets caught on blocks a lot." Finished with 326 tackles (53 1/2 for loss), 20 sacks and seven turnover plays. "He's an athletic guy that runs fast," another scout said. Added a third: "We like him. He's a will, a space guy. First day."

8. ANTWAN BARNES
Florida International 6-0 1/2 240 4.45

5

Started portions of four seasons, generally at linebacker in 2003-'04 and at end in 2005-'06. "He's just like (Robert) Mathis," Softli said. "I think people will leave him at end and Indianapolis will draft him. He's their kind of guy, man. He's 245ish and can run like the wind." Other teams have him as a base linebacker and third-down rusher. "He really has some ability," one scout said. "But he's a loafer and he's not very smart." Finished with 224 tackles (57 for loss), 23 sacks and 10 turnover plays."

9. RORY JOHNSON
Mississippi 6-0 235 4.58

3-7

It's common knowledge among teams that he failed positive tests for marijuana both at Hinds (Junior) College and Ole Miss. "It all depends on what each organization thinks and feels," one scout said. "People see it differently." Played two seasons in JC and one in Oxford before declaring early. "He's athletic and makes some plays," another scout said. "Not a real tough guy. He would have a chance to go, especially in this draft. I don't know how much people will knock off for all the other stuff." Forced five turnovers in 12 games, including seven starts.

10. RUFUS ALEXANDER
Oklahoma 6-1 230 4.78

5-6

Three-year starter with 296 tackles (38 for loss), 10 1/2 sacks and 19 turnover plays. "He should have worked out great at the combine but he didn't work out worth a (expletive)," one scout said. "He's instinctive and makes some good plays but he can't play outside running 4.85." Overcame a blown knee in '03. "I'm not quite sure what he does well," another scout said. "He doesn't play athletic, he's definitely not tough, he's definitely not strong."

OTHERS: Earl Everett, Florida; Prescott Burgess, Michigan; Nick Roach, Northwestern; Juwan Simpson, Alabama; KaMichael Hall, Georgia Tech; Dallas Sartz, Southern California; Will Herring, Auburn; Danny Verdun Wheeler, Georgia; Clint Session, Pittsburgh; Zach Latimer, Oklahoma.


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[HarveyWallbangers]

Did Durant get drafted?

Boss at TE?

[RashanGary]

Hey, PI's scouts had Harrell rated higher than Branch. That is interesting.

[Bretsky]

Did Durant get drafted?

Boss at TE?

Durant was drafted; I don't think Boss was