Latest 2 round Mock Draft fr. PFT

[woodbuck27]

PFT's take on the NY Jets needs follows:

http://www.profootballtalk.com/rumormill.htm

JETS' DRAFT NEEDS ARE UP

We're hitting the home stretch of our team-by-team draft needs analyses.

No. 25 is up.:

http://www.profootballtalk.com/2007JetsDraftNeeds.htm

We've got seven left. The draft is nine days away.

We remain cautiously optimistic that we'll get them done.

Comment woodbuck27:

I've endeavoured to keep this thread up to date and supply some general draft info. just as a reference and to spark some commentary.

There are various draft sites that of course will have their own opinion on this very important event.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10130405

Mock draft No. 8

By Pat Kirwan
NFL.com Senior Analyst


Note: Pat Kirwan will update his mock draft each week between now and the April 28-29 draft.

Kirwan's mock drafts: March 4 | March 12 | March 19 | March 22 | March 28 | April 3 | April 9


(April 16, 2007) – It’s important to keep in mind that as teams solidify their draft boards, it is now obvious where the depth in the talent pool does not equal the number of teams in search of players at certain positions.

For example, close to 10 teams need to find a left tackle on the first day of the draft. After a few of the left tackle candidates are moved to guard or right tackle as their pro position, there just won’t be enough left tackles and that will push the value of the five or six tackles in this draft up.

The same could be said for teams needing a linebacker.

Every free-agent signing and trade has an effect on the draft. Every workout by a draft-eligible athlete can change the direction of one team selecting and that in turn changes what a number of teams will do.

This is my eighth of 10 mock drafts. and even though most of the names selected as first-round players seven mock drafts ago remain the same. the teams in the vicinity of choosing the players has changed.

Chargers running back Michael Turner appears to be the player capable of changing the course of the first round the most if he gets traded.

Some observers think Randy Moss has the clout to reconfigure the first round, but most insiders believe that even when he redoes his contract for a new team, he has a better chance of changing how the second round unfolds than the first round.

Even if Trent Green is traded to Miami, the Dolphins could still be in the hunt for Brady Quinn if he were to drop, which I doubt at this point.

Note: Changes from the seventh mock draft are marked with an asterisk.

1. Oakland: JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU -- The Raiders have lots of needs, but as long as quarterback is one of them, they have to respond by selecting the guy with the great deep ball, JaMarcus Russell. As I said previously, the Raiders are pushing forward to trade for Josh McCown. The compensation the Lions rejected was a fifth-round pick, but it appears they could move up a pick in the first round to close the deal. The Lions aren't going to give McCown away, but a quarterback that has one year left on his deal and didn't play a down last year can't be worth more than a fourth-round pick. I'm sure the Raiders would love to have McCown in a Raiders uniform to start the season until Russell is ready. The biggest point about the Raiders' intentions to use the mobile McCown until Russell is ready and then make the switch is that Oakland is not looking to renegotiate McCown's $2 million salary to make the trade happen.

2. **Detroit: Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson -- The Raiders will leave Detroit in the second spot and that will have great value with Calvin Johnson still on the board. I wouldn't be surprised if the Lions and Bucs have already considered compensation to switch spots or have Detroit select Johnson and then trade him to Tampa much like the Chargers and Giants did with Eli Manning. The Bucs probably have to give up a second-round pick and maybe even a third to move up, but Johnson is worth it. For now, Detroit winds up with Adams, although Brady Quinn would be my pick. The Lions can get a quarterback like Trent Edwards in the next round.

3. Cleveland: Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame -- With JaMarcus Russell, gone the Browns would be wise to just take Quinn. Cleveland passed on Ben Roethlisberger a few years ago and didn’t trade up for Matt Leinart or Jay Cutler last year. Arizona at No. 5 could call the Browns in an attempt to get Joe Thomas but Tampa has threatened to take Quinn if he drops. That may just be a smoke screen, but if it’s a legitimate threat, the Browns could lose out on Quinn if they trade with the Cardinals and go a spot below the Bucs. If the Browns ignore the Quinn idea and take Joe Thomas or Adrian Peterson, they have to make great picks at No. 36 and No. 67.


4. Tampa Bay: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech -- There would be no reason for the Bucs to move up if Calvin Johnson goes at the top spot, but this week it looks like Johnson will be there. Some how, some way Tampa Bay announces Calvin Johnson as its first-round selection. One NFC head coach said, "Calvin will play in 10 Pro Bowls." Do whatever it takes to get him.

5. **Arizona: Joe Thomas, T, Wisconsin -- The Cardinals really want Joe Thomas and stay put and select him at the No. 5 spot. They could risk moving down to save money like they like to do and take Penn State tackle Levi Brown.

6. Washington: Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville -- There are a lot of rumors that the Redskins will trade out of this spot if they can get their hands on Chicago linebacker Lance Briggs. The Briggs trade appears dead for the time being, but agent Drew Rosenhaus will get it moving again in a week or two. If they stay in the No. 6 spot, the Redskins could take Alan Branch, but his stock has dropped slightly. For now, Washington stays put and takes Okoye. Washington may try to move down a few spots but Okoye will not disappoint.

7. Minnesota: LaRon Landry, S, LSU -- It appears the Vikings would have to move up for Quinn or Adams, but if they stay put then Landry is a solid pick. He's a 'matchup' player who can help in many ways. It's too early to take a wide receiver or one of the other defensive ends, so moving down at this point is an option. Miami could call looking to get ahead of Atlanta for Landry or Levi Brown.

8. **Atlanta: Alan Branch, DT, Michigan -- The Falcons sit in the No. 8 spot instead of the No. 10 spot after trading Matt Schaub to Houston. LaRon Landry should be gone, so the discussion will be about Levi Brown and Branch. The Falcons need help on the defensive line with Patrick Kearney gone and Grady Jackson just about done. Michael Vick is left handed, so the Falcons' needs are more for a pass-blocking right tackle, so they opt for Branch.

9. **Miami: Levi Brown, OT, Penn State -- The Dolphins held their breath, didn’t move up and still got the big left tackle they need. Brown is the perfect player to fill the shoes no one has for Richmond Webb in years.

10. Houston: Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma -- Houston moved down two spots in the Schaub trade and probably lost the chance to take Levi Brown, so the Texans call Peterson's name. Even though they signed Ahman Green, Peterson is the highest-rated player on their board at this point. Tampa Bay would sure like a call from Houston to move up. Michael Turner, the Chargers running back who is a restricted free agent, could affect this pick. If Turner ever became a Texan, then Houston could take a corner. A solid wide receiver to complement Andre Johnson could be available at the No. 73 spot.

11. San Francisco: Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska -- Carriker is a great fit for coach Mike Nolan and his desire to build a solid 3-4 defense with high-character players. He plugs in as a rookie and holds his spot for eight to 10 years. Some talk about the top wide receivers left on the board will be very tempting, but good receivers will still be on the board when the Niners pick at No. 42 -- defensive ends won't be.

12. Buffalo: Patrick Willis, LB, Mississippi -- Willis is the best middle linebacker in the draft, and the Bills lost London Fletcher in free agency and traded Takeo Spikes to the Eagles. Willis ran under 4.4 in the 40-yard dash at his Pro Day and is a tackling machine. Willis can play the Will position and Angelo Crowell can play the Mike. Don't be surprised if Buffalo tries to move down a few spots and save some money with its pick.

13. **St. Louis: Leon Hall, CB, Michigan -- Signing Lenny Walls and Mike Rumph has not solved the Rams' secondary issues. They probably regret letting defensive tackle Ryan Pickett go and this pick offers a chance to recover, but unless the Rams get ahead of the 49ers to get Adam Carriker, they select Hall. There might be some discussion about fast-rising defensive tackle Justin Harrell from Tennessee, who demonstrated he's healthy from his bicep injury with 31 reps on the bench-press test.

14. Carolina: Greg Olsen, TE, Miami (Fla.) -- If the Panthers wanted Willis, they would have moved up, but the Carolina decision-makers seem very impressed with Olsen. The Panthers need a linebacker but this crop does not impress them enough. Olsen would help solve Carolina's third-down problems and also help Steve Smith and Keyshawn Johnson. If Carolina trades underachieving defensive tackle Kris Jenkins, then taking Justin Harrell here and a tight end at No. 45 could work.

15. Pittsburgh: Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee -- Harrell is now weighing in at 314 pounds and his workout has NFL people talking first round. He can play defensive end in the 3-4 scheme and can always move to tackle in the 4-3 if the Steelers ever go in that direction down the road.

16. Green Bay: Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas -- There is downward pressure on the running backs in this draft and running back Marshawn Lynch suffers because of things out of his control. A receiver like Dwayne Bowe would give Brett Favre another big target, but both the running back and receiver positions have talent in the second round. A safety like Reggie Nelson is intriguing, but Anderson's got a better grade than any of the players mentioned and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila is no longer in the plans. When the Packers draft at No. 47, they will still have a few running backs available from the group that includes Kenny Irons, Tony Hunt, Brandon Jackson and Antonio Pittman.

17. Jacksonville: Reggie Nelson, S, Florida -- Deon Grant is gone, so a starting safety is needed. There will be discussions about other safeties like Michael Griffin, but Nelson's personal workout should make him the choice. The Jaguars could embrace the idea of taking Lawrence Timmons at this spot. If Jamaal Anderson fell to this spot, the Jags probably would take him and grab a safety at the No. 48 spot.

18. **Cincinnati: Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh -- The Bengals want a corner or a safety. Revis is a solid pick and the Bengals will love the 'solid citizen' as much as the player. There will be some discussion about the linebackers left on the board and there is also some disappointment the Steelers took Harrell.

19. **Tennessee: Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee -- Drew Bennett is gone and offensive coordinator Norm Chow needs a top-flight target for Vince Young. Meachem had 34 receptions over 20 yards and has risen up draft boards in recent weeks. Marshawn Lynch looks real tempting at this spot but the Titans are pushing hard for Michael Turner from the Chargers.

20. N.Y. Giants: Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU -- Everyone is talking linebacker to the Giants, especially with Paul Posluszny and Lawrence Timmons still on the board. The Giants need one, but they completed a transaction to acquire Kavika Mitchell, the Kansas City free-agent linebacker, so they can pick a receiver. Plaxico Burress can't be a long term answer when he rarely shows up in the offseason and Amani Toomer is coming off an injury. Bowe gives Eli Manning a target for the next eight years.


Taking Lawrence Timmons helps the Broncos fill the void left by Al Wilson's departure.

21. **Denver: Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida State -- The Broncos lost out in their pursuit of defensive end Patrick Kerney, and middle linebacker Al Wilson was just released. Defensive end Jarvis Moss makes some sense at this spot but concerns about his strength will change their thinking. D.J. Williams can slide into the middle linebacker spot and Timmons takes his spot.

22. **Dallas: Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC -- The signing of veteran safety Ken Hamlin changes the thinking in Dallas. Terrell Owens has a big roster bonus due after the draft, and whether they pay it or release him, he is not a long-term answer for QB Tony Romo. Jarrett scored a touchdown every five receptions while at USC and may remind Jerry Jones of a young Michael Irvin.

23. Kansas City: Ted Ginn Jr., WR, Ohio State -- The Chiefs really want a great defensive tackle at this spot but the draft board says wait because the best are gone. A move up for Okoye is too difficult to get done and the late rise of Harrell hurt their ace in the hole, so the pick here is Ginn. If Ginn does fall to the Chiefs, it will be a big day for the Chiefs offense. He will push the field and create underneath lanes for tight end Tony Gonzalez. He also has eight touchdowns on kick returns, and Dante Hall isn't the player he once was, which is why trade rumors surround him. Guard Ben Grubbs sure would look good here now that Will Shields announced his retirement.

24. New England: Aaron Ross, CB, Texas -- The Pats are working out all the top corners and Asante Samuels is starting to talk about a trade. Ross is too hard to pass up at this point.

25. N.Y. Jets: Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas -- The Jets need help in the secondary, the defensive line and tight end. With Olsen gone, the Jets discuss the remaining corners and take Houston, who has match-man skills. I like Houston, but here’s a guy with no college interceptions, forced fumbles or fumble recoveries.

26. **Philadelphia: Brandon Meriweather, S, Miami -- Lawrence Timmons is gone, but the Eagles acquired Takeo Spikes in free agency anyway. A solid corner like Marcus McCauley will be discussed here like but Merriweather is a plug-in player.

27. New Orleans: Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn State -- The Saints would love a tight end like Greg Olsen, a corner like Chris Houston or a defensive tackle, but picking down at No. 27 is a new experience for the Saints franchise. They will have to move up to get those players, so they could make a call to Dallas because Jerry Jones loves to make trades on draft day and the No. 22 spot ensures a corner could be had. If they stay put, then it could be Posluszny.

28. New England: Ryan Kalil, C, USC -- With two first-round picks and a very aggressive offseason in the free-agency market, the Patriots can afford to take the highest-rated center and not worry about the position for a very long time.

29. Baltimore: Anthony Spencer, LB/DE, Purdue -- The Ravens lost Adalius Thomas and are prepared to play with the guys they have on the roster, but Spencer might fall to them and he is a perfect fit as a pressure player. Joe Staley could fit at guard right now and be the replacement for Jonathan Ogden when he finally retires.

30. San Diego: Michael Griffin, S, Texas -- The wide receivers were hit pretty hard with five selected in the first round already. Griffin is a solid player and there's a better chance of finding a quality receiver at the No. 62 spot than a safety like Griffin. Of course, trading Michael Turner would put San Diego in a position to get both things done. I think they like USC receiver Steve Smith.

31. Chicago: Jon Beason, OLB, Miami (Fla.) -- Lance Briggs could be traded to Washington, but even if he's not, it doesn't look like Chicago ever intends to do a long-term deal with him. A wide receiver is a possibility, but Beason would solve a more immediate problem. Left tackle Joe Staley is also still on the board and he will be hard to resist.

32. **Indianapolis: Joe Staley, T, Central Michigan -- The Colts could have excellent players to look at down at the bottom of the round. There's no doubt they could use a safety with Mike Doss gone. They might also consider Marshawn Lynch to replace the role Dominic Rhodes played, reach for a defensive tackle like Tank Tyler, or they could replace linebacker Cato June. With no second-round pick, they might want to move down but not too many teams want to move into the last pick in the first round when they can get the same player in the second round. The choice is Staley.

Players who could easily hear their names called in the first round but were not part of this mock draft include RB Marshawn Lynch, OG Ben Grubbs, DE Charles Johnson and CB Marcus McCauley.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10130733

Carucci: 2007 mock draft update

By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com

Carucci's mock drafts: March 5 | March 12
March 19 | March 26 | April 2 | April 9

(April 16, 2007) -- This mock draft will be updated weekly through the start of the 2007 draft on April 28.

Note: Changes from the sixth mock draft are marked with an asterisk.

1. Oakland: JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU
The Raiders are starting over at quarterback -- again. They could go with Notre Dame's Brady Quinn, but Russell's off-the-charts physical skills and arm strength give him enough of an edge to rank as the No. 1 quarterback in the draft. His massive frame is a plus, but his weight at the NFL Combine (265 pounds) was about 10 pounds heavier than the Raiders or any team would prefer. Of course, given their unpredictable history, the Raiders could go with a different position. Their draft board, like that of many other teams, might very well show Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson at the top.

2. **Detroit: Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
The Lions will be tempted to use their first pick on yet another receiver, especially after Johnson's highly impressive showing at the Combine. General manager Matt Millen also could give serious thought to selecting one of the top two quarterbacks available (Russell or Quinn) or Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas. However, it looks as if Adams, who has considerable speed and athleticism, would be the tremendous difference-making force for a team that must have one … immediately!

3. Cleveland: Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
Peterson is remarkably talented, offering tremendous burst and explosiveness. He is capable of making an offense instantly better, and that is the sort of help the Browns desperately need. Peterson helped himself with an impressive performance at the Combine, but his injury history is a concern. It might be enough of a concern for the Browns to consider Quinn, an Ohio native who wants to play in Cleveland, or Johnson or perhaps the draft's best defensive tackle, Michigan's Alan Branch.


4. Tampa Bay: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
Although the Buccaneers have multiple pressing needs, Jon Gruden pretty much has a one-track mind when it comes to identifying the best way to improve his team. In Gruden's book, that way is to acquire a dynamic playmaker on offense. Johnson fits that description perfectly. The Bucs' coach is feeling some heat to make his team significantly better, and Johnson would figure to make a great complement to the winner of the quarterback battle between free agent Jeff Garcia and incumbent Chris Simms.

5. **Arizona: Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
The Cardinals desperately need help on their offensive line and their new coach is offensive-minded Ken Whisenhunt. Thomas, who is a superb athlete, is the best at the position in this year's college crop and should be a fixture on the Cards' line for many years to come.

6. **Washington: Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
Despite being only 19 years old, Okoye has four years of collegiate experience. He can be the stout run-stuffing and pocket-collapsing presence the Redskins need.

7. Minnesota: Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
Hall soared to the top of his position with a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the Combine, and has great character. He should make a strong contribution immediately.

8. Atlanta: LaRon Landry, S, LSU
New coach Bobby Petrino wants to add size and strength to his offensive line, so Penn State offensive tackle Levi Brown is a possibility. But Landry would give them the very best player at a position of need and one of the top prospects in the draft.

9. Miami: Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
Even if, as is widely speculated, the Dolphins acquire Trent Green from Kansas City, they still would like to develop a longer-term quarterback solution. Quinn should have the chance to develop quickly under the guidance of new coach Cam Cameron and his staff.

10. Houston: Levi Brown, OT, Penn State
The Texans have who they believe is the right quarterback to run Gary Kubiak's offense in former Falcon backup Matt Schaub. In order to get the desired production from him, they need people to keep him upright, which is something Brown should help them achieve.

11. San Francisco: Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
Anderson is the most complete end in this year's college crop, so he should do plenty to help improve Mike Nolan's defensive front.

12. Buffalo: Patrick Willis, LB, Mississippi
The Bills have crying needs at linebacker and running back, and could justifiably address cornerback this high as well. Of the three spots, Willis looks as if he would be the highest-rated player on their board at this point. He has the versatility to play outside as well as inside, meaning he could pick up the slack for either of the two linebackers who have departed the team, London Fletcher and Takeo Spikes.

13. **St. Louis: Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
Branch is a large and powerful force that the Rams desperately need for the interior of their defensive line.


Reggie Nelson would help fill the Panthers' needs at safety.

14. **Carolina: Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
With Mike Minter planning to retire after the 2007 season, the Panthers need to make free safety a priority. Nelson, who has good speed and athleticism, fills an obvious need. With some added bulk and strength, he could be an exceptional player for many years to come.

15. **Pittsburgh: Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
For someone who stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 298 pounds, Carriker moves extremely well, as he demonstrated with an impressive showing in the 20-yard shuttle at the Combine.

16. Green Bay: Marshawn Lynch, RB, California
After losing Ahman Green to Houston in free agency, the Packers could use a running back. After Peterson, Lynch is the best of the group.


17. Jacksonville: Ted Ginn Jr., WR, Ohio State
The Jaguars will be thinking defense, but they would have a hard time resisting this pick if he's still on the board. Ginn didn't work out at the Combine and there is concern over the foot injury he suffered in the national championship game. Ginn still should have no problem validating the tremendous speed he showed for the Buckeyes, but his receiving skills need work. At the very least, he should make an immediate impact as a return specialist.

18. Cincinnati: Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
Revis, who also can contribute as a return specialist, shows good coverage skills and has the size and strength to help against the run.

19. Tennessee: Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee
The Titans desperately want to add a receiver to Vince Young's arsenal. Meachem greatly improved his draft status by running a 4.39 40 at the Combine and putting on an impressive display in pass-catching drills.

20. **N.Y. Giants: Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
Although Posluszny didn't show blazing speed, he worked out better than expected at the Combine. His intelligence and versatility make him a good fit in any defensive scheme. His unselfish attitude also makes him the kind of player that Tom Coughlin loves to coach


Paul Posluszny would be a good fit for the Giants.

21. Denver: Anthony Spencer, DE, Purdue
Spencer offers tremendous quickness to go along with superb instincts and intelligence. He could be switched to outside linebacker. Either way, his athleticism is perfect for the Broncos' scheme.

22. **Dallas: Jarvis Moss, DE, Florida
Moss is an excellent athlete who has the makings of an explosive and highly productive pass rusher, just the sort of addition that new coach Wade Phillips wants to make in his efforts to improve the Cowboys defense.

23. Kansas City: Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
Bowe is a big, strong receiver who has the toughness to catch the ball in a crowd. His ability to run precise routes is an attribute that will likely make him a significant force as a rookie, especially if he is working with veteran quarterback Trent Green.

24. **New England: Aaron Ross, CB, Texas
With Asante Samuel's uncertain status, the Patriots would seemingly have little choice but to use one of their two first-round picks on a cornerback. And Ross would be a good one to land this deep in the first round. He has the size (6-0, 193 pounds) and strength to effectively jam receivers at the line. He also has plenty of speed to hold up well in man-to-man coverage, which should allow him to make an immediate impact.

25. N.Y. Jets: Greg Olsen, TE, Miami
After an impressive Combine performance, Olsen might already be off the board by this point. But his speed and athleticism would make him an excellent addition and provide an added dimension to the Jets offense.

26. **Philadelphia: Michael Griffin, S, Texas
Griffin is an outstanding athlete with plenty of agility to turn and run. He's also big (6-1-plus, 207 pounds), strong and a willing hitter near the line of scrimmage.

27. **New Orleans: Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
Houston offers tremendous speed and athleticism, ingredients that should allow him to lend immediate help to the Saints secondary.

28. New England: Tony Ugoh, OT, Arkansas
The Patriots could do their offense a big favor for a long time by acquiring an offensive tackle with a nice combination of size, strength, and quickness.

29. Baltimore: Justin Blalock, OG, Texas
The Ravens' offensive line is getting old. Blalock would be a quality addition because of his power and aggressiveness, which he uses particularly well in run-blocking.


30. San Diego: Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
Jarrett could have problems consistently gaining separation against NFL cornerbacks, but he has been a dynamic playmaker in a program that has prepared him well for the next level.

31. Chicago: Brandon Meriweather, S, Miami
The Bears' lack of depth at safety was never more visible than in the Super Bowl, when Colts receiver Reggie Wayne was often left by himself on deep routes. If they are comfortable that Meriweather's character questions won't pose further problems, he figures to be a strong addition this late in the first round.

32. Indianapolis: Lawrence Timmons, OLB, Florida State
Timmons was a highly productive collegiate player who, if he falls this far, looks as if he would be the best choice at this point to replace Cato June, who signed with Tampa Bay.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10137513

Davis' mock draft

By Charles Davis
Special to NFL.com


(NFL Network analyst Charles Davis offers up his mock draft ).

1. Oakland: JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU

2. Detroit: Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

3. Cleveland: Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

4. Tampa Bay: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech

5. Arizona: Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin

6. Washington: Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson

7. Minnesota: Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

8. Atlanta: LaRon Landry, FS, LSU

9. Miami: Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville

10. Houston: Levi Brown, OT, Penn State

11. San Francisco: Alan Branch, DT, Michigan

12. Buffalo: Patrick Willis, LB, Ole Miss

13. St. Louis: Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska

14. Carolina: Brandon Meriweather, FS, Miami (Fla.)

15. Pittsburgh: Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh

16. Green Bay: Marshawn Lynch, RB, California

17. Jacksonville: Reggie Nelson, FS, Florida

18. Cincinnati: Leon Hall, CB, Michigan

19. Tennessee: Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee

20. New York Giants: Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida State

21. Denver: Jarvis Moss, DE, Florida

22. Dallas: Ted Ginn, Jr., WR, Ohio State

23. Kansas City: Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU

24. New England: Jon Beason, LB, Miami, FL

25. New York Jets: Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas

26. Philadelphia: Michael Griffin, FS, Texas

27. New Orleans: Aaron Ross, CB, Texas

28. New England: Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn State

29. Baltimore: Ryan Kalil, C, USC

30. San Diego: Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC

31. Chicago: Greg Olsen, TE, Miami (Fla.)

32. Indianapolis: Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10062000

Vic's picks: Top 5 tight ends in draft


By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com




Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S

(March 15, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five tight ends in the NFL draft:

1. Greg Olsen, Miami (Underclassman)

Positives: Outstanding athlete with game-breaking skills ... Fast, explosive runner … Superb hands ... Excellent route-runner ... Intelligence ... Beats jams and uses quickness and agility to get good separation from defenders ... A linebacker can't cover him one-on-one ... Able to take a hard hit and continue running.

Negatives: Other than the need to improve his blocking, he has no significant negatives.


2. Zach Miller, Arizona State (Underclassman)


Zach Miller totaled 144 catches for 1,512 yards and 14 TDs in three years for the Sun Devils.

Positives: Runs precise routes ... Quickness and agility ... Size (6-foot-4-plus, 258 pounds) and strength ... Tremendous body control ... Does a good job of beating jams and is fast enough to make long gains after the catch ... Intelligence ... Able to consistently find openings in zone coverage ... Good blocker.

Negatives: Not many, but he does have room to gain strength.


3. Ben Patrick, Delaware

Positives: Nice combination of size (6-foot-3-plus, 252 pounds), strength, and speed ... Intelligence. …Impressive route-runner ... Consistently finds openings in zone coverage ... Reliable hands; makes difficult catches ... Toughness, especially when it comes to catching the ball in a crowd ... Takes hard hits and hangs onto the ball ... Uses quickness to gain separation.

Negatives: Needs to become more aggressive as a blocker and a runner after the catch ... Ball security.



Comment woodbuck27:

Do we want either of these two guys? They remind me of what we have (slash) had for the past 10 years..


4. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota

Positives: Size (6-7-plus, 270 pounds) and strength ... Runs good, precise routes and adjusts well to the ball ... Intelligence ... Superb hands.

Negatives: Lacks speed and explosiveness ... Needs to become a better blocker, which, given his size, is an area at which he should excel ... Still rehabilitating from a shoulder injury, which prevented him from participating in Combine workouts in February and in the Gophers' Pro Day on March 5.


5. Martrez Milner, Georgia

Positives: Gets maximum strength from his 6-3-plus, 252-pound frame ... Blocks well, especially when facing a bull rush ... Versatile enough to line up at H-back.

Negatives: Must develop more aggressiveness ... Doesn't have enough speed to consistently gain separation from defenders ... Hands; drops too many passes and tries to make too many catches with his body.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10058205

Vic's picks: Top 5 running backs in draft


By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com


Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S
(

March 13, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five running backs in the NFL draft:

1. Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma (Underclassman)

Positives: Size (6-foot-1-plus, 217 pounds) and strength ... Aggressive, physical running style ... Although he is mostly an upright runner, he does a nice job of lowering his shoulders to get good lean when powering his way between the tackles ... Will run over smaller defensive ends and outside linebackers who attempt to bring him down on outside runs ... Despite limited involvement in the passing game, he shows good receiving skills and has the explosiveness to generate substantial gains after the catch.

Negatives: Inability to stay healthy throughout his college career, which is mostly the result of taking too many hits because of his upright running style ... Ball security ... Doesn't have tremendous burst to the outside ... Needs to work on pass-protection.

2. Marshawn Lynch, California (Underclassman)


Marshawn Lynch had 3,830 all-purpose yards and 35 TDs in three years at California.

Positives: Quick, agile and explosive to the outside ... Strong, physical running style ... Able to withstand punishment and fight through would-be tacklers for extra yards ... Durable and tough, as evidenced by the fact he battled to overcome an ankle injury and was still effective during the 2006 season.

Negatives: Needs to work on running pass routes and catching the ball ... Has plenty of room for improvement in pass protection, especially when it comes to aggressiveness.

Comment woodbuck27:

I would not be upset if we got Marshawn Lynch. He seems to be the right fit for our current status on 'O' in the backfield.

The other's:

3. Kenny Irons, Auburn

Positives: Outstanding athlete with tremendous acceleration and elusiveness ... Excellent vision and instincts. ...Consistently hard runner ... Receiving skills and ability to make big gains after the catch ... Blitz recognition and pass-blocking.

Negatives: Durability; couldn't stay healthy enough to start for a full season, including his senior year when he was bothered by ankle and leg injuries ... Must add bulk to his smallish, 5-10-plus, 203-pound frame ... Needs to run with more body lean to improve his ability to withstand contact.

4. Antonio Pittman, Ohio State (Underclassman)

Positives: Outstanding athleticism ... Runs effectively between the tackles but also shows good outside burst ... Makes sharp, well-timed cuts ... Patient runner who will wait for blocks to set up ... Good receiving skills and explosive enough to make strong gains after the catch ... Displays greater strength and toughness than one might expect from a back with a 5-10-plus, 207-pound frame.

Negatives: Needs to add bulk and strength ... Pass-protection ... Route-running.


5. Michael Bush, Louisville

Positives: Size (6-1-plus, 243 pounds) and strength ... Follows blockers well. …Surprising quickness and agility for his size ... Pass-protection.

Negatives: Durability; still rehabilitating a broken leg suffered during Louisville's '06 season-opener ... Upright running style exposes him to too much contact ... Too much hesitation when he doesn't find an immediate opening ... Limited big-play ability.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10095914

Vic's picks: Top 5 safeties in draft

By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com

Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S

(March 29, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five safeties in the NFL draft:

1. LaRon Landry, LSU

Positives: Size (6-foot-plus, 213 pounds), speed, and athleticism. ... Excellent instincts. ... Able to cover tight ends one-on-one. ... Hard hitter. ... Shows superb anticipation and isn't easily fooled by play fakes or misdirection plays. ... Toughness. ... Competitiveness.

Negatives: Very few, although he will sometimes get too carried away with launching himself at an opponent and fail to make contact.

2. Reggie Nelson, Florida (Underclassman)

Positives: Size (5-11-plus, 198 pounds), speed, and athleticism. ... Can cover tight ends and slot receivers one-on-one. ... Hard hitter. ... Plays with aggressiveness, especially in run support. ... Shows excellent discipline; doesn't bite on play fakes. ... Does a nice job of reading the quarterback. ... Outstanding hands and often comes up with the tough interception.

Negatives: Not many, although he occasionally gets a bit too aggressive when attacking the line of scrimmage against the run.

3. Michael Griffin, Texas

Positives: Size (5-11-plus, 201 pounds), strength, speed, and athleticism ... Excels in man-to-man coverage ... Tremendously hard hitter ... Able to hold up well against larger blockers at the line of scrimmage ... Toughness ... Competitiveness.

Negatives: Needs to develop better instincts to avoid being caught out of position ... Could stand to improve his tackling skills.

4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami (Fla.)


At his size, (5-10 5/8, 195 pounds) Brandon Meriweather might be better suited to play cornerback.
Positives: Speed, athleticism. ... Able to cover receivers man-to-man. ... Tremendous instincts. ... Avoids biting on play fakes. ... Excellent hands; can make difficult interceptions. ... Plays with aggressiveness and does a nice job of attacking the line in run support.

Negatives: Doesn't have a great deal of bulk or strength, which limits the impact of his hits and can make him vulnerable against larger ball-carriers. ... Character questions.

5. Aaron Rouse, Virginia Tech

Positives: Size (6-4, 223 pounds), speed, and athleticism. ... Outstanding instincts. ... Avoids being fooled by play fakes. ... Reads quarterbacks well. ... Superb hands. ... Uses height to his advantage in out-jumping receivers and knocking down passes. ...

Negatives: Sometimes his long legs cause him to take a misstep and he finds himself at a disadvantage in coverage.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10080191

Vic's picks: Top 5 defensive ends in draft

By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com

Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S

(March 22, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five defensive ends in the NFL draft:

1. Gaines Adams, Clemson

Positives: Exceptional athleticism, speed, and explosiveness. … Does an excellent job of diagnosing plays and reacting to them. … Nice repertoire of pass-rush moves. … Excels at chasing down plays from the backside. … Has versatility to play in 4-3 or 3-4 scheme.

Negatives: Not many, but does need to add some bulk to his 6-foot-4-plus, 261-pound frame to help him become more effective against the run. … Could play with more aggressiveness.

2. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas (Underclassman)

Jamaal Anderson led the SEC in sacks last season.

Positives: Size (6-5-plus, 284 pounds), strength, and quickness. … Strong bull rusher. … Has multiple moves that allow him to be effective rushing the passer inside or outside. … Does a good job of diagnosing plays and reacting to them. … Shows impressive tackling skills.

Negatives: Needs to be a bit more explosive off the ball. … Must learn not to play upright as often as he does because it makes him easier to block.

3. Jarvis Moss, Florida (Underclassman)

Positives: Outstanding athlete. … Shows good anticipation of plays. … Nice array of pass-rush moves. … Plays with good leverage.

Negatives: Needs to add bulk and strength to his 6-6-plus, 258-pound frame. … Must learn to make better use of his hands to separate from blockers. … Could stand to play with more aggressiveness.

4. Adam Carriker, Nebraska

Positives: Size (6-6, 291 pounds), strength, and speed. …. Good variety of pass-rush moves. … Shows strong extra effort to make plays downfield. … Versatility; can play in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme.

Negatives: Needs to show more explosiveness off the snap. … Susceptible to being fooled by play fakes. … Must work at making better use of his hands to fend off blockers.

5. Charles Johnson, Georgia (Underclassman)

Positives: Size (6-2-plus, 270 pounds), strength, and speed. … Exceptionally long arms. … Does a nice job of diagnosing plays. … Equally strong rushing the passer and playing the run.

Negatives: Needs to be more explosive off the snap. … Must work at developing stronger pass-rush skills.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10093720

Vic's picks: Top 5 cornerbacks in draft

By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com

Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S

(March 28, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five cornerbacks in the NFL draft:

1. Leon Hall, Michigan

Positives: Tremendous instincts. ... Does an excellent job of anticipating plays and reacting accordingly. ... Superb ball skills. ... Outstanding hands. ... Physical in bump-and-run coverage and shows no hesitation to provide run support.

Negatives: Not many for the player who shapes up as the draft's best at his position.


2. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh (Underclassman)

Positives: Exceptional speed, agility, and footwork. ... Outstanding hands. ... Excels at reading plays and making the proper adjustments. ... Body control. ... Toughness; can't be easily blocked on run plays. ... Can make an instant game-breaking contribution as a punt returner.

Negatives: Must work at improving his backpedal; his tendency to go sideways rather than straight back can give receivers an unnecessary advantage.


3. Aaron Ross, Texas

Aaron Ross won the Thorpe Award as the nation's top DB as a senior.

Positives: Size (6-foot-plus, 197 pounds), speed, and athleticism. ... Makes good use of long arms to knock receivers off their routes and knock down passes. ... Does an outstanding job of reading plays and knows how to react. ... Rarely fooled by play fakes or misdirection plays. ... Excellent ball skills. ... Can recover from missteps with strong closing burst.

Negatives: Given his size, he could stand to be more aggressive in run support.


4. Marcus McCauley, Fresno State

Positives: Size (6-0-plus, 203 pounds), speed, and athleticism. ... Long arms. ... Effective when jamming receivers at the line. ... Outstanding instincts. ... Aggressiveness in run support.

Negatives: Needs to work on backpedaling technique. ... Could stand to improve his lower-body strength.


5. Chris Houston, Arkansas (Underclassman)

Positives: Outstanding speed and athleticism. ... Able to closely shadow receivers anywhere on the field in man-to-man coverage. ... Physical enough to knock receivers off their routes. ... Shows explosiveness to cut in front of receivers and make plays.

Negatives: Can be beaten by quick moves in the open field. ... Needs to work on backpedaling technique. ... Generally must become more consistent in making the most of his considerable physical skills.

[b bulldog]

REVIS JUST WAS CLOCKED RUNNING A 4.38/40. Scouts were real impressed.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/10089027

Vic's picks: Top 5 outside linebackers in draft

By Vic Carucci
National Editor, NFL.com

Carucci's top 5: QB | RB | WR | TE | FB | OT | C | G | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S

(March 26, 2007) -- One man's ranking of the top five outside linebackers in the NFL draft:

1. Paul Posluszny, Penn State

Positives: Outstanding speed, athleticism, and explosiveness. ... Shows superb instincts. ... Does an excellent job of diagnosing plays and reacting to them. ... Plays with good leverage. ... Exceptionally strong tackler. ... Can cover running backs and tight ends one-on-one.

Negatives: Not many, although he sometimes struggles to get through traffic.

2. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State (Underclassman)

Positives: Athleticism and speed. ... Delivers hard hits. ... Maintains ground well against blocking fullbacks and offensive linemen. ... Does a nice job of chasing down ballcarriers from behind. ... Outstanding pass-coverage skills.

Negatives: Needs to work at using his hands better to separate from blockers. ... Could stand some improvement in tackling technique.

3. Jon Beason, Miami (Underclassman)

Positives: Athleticism and speed. ... Plays with aggressiveness. ... Does a good job of chasing down ball carriers from the back side. ... Able to work his way through a crowd. ... Gives top effort on every play. ... Can make an immediate impact on special teams.

Negatives: Tends to be too aggressive in reacting to play fakes. ... Needs to work on pass-coverage skills.


Rufus Alexander doesn't have ideal size, but he packs a wallop.

4. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma

Positives: Athleticism and speed. ... Hard hitter. ... Does a solid job in covering running backs and tight ends one-on-one. ... Excels at anticipating the correct play and avoids biting on play fakes and misdirection plays. ... Can make an immediate impact on special teams.

Negatives: At barely over 6 feet, isn't particularly tall. ... Needs to learn to play with greater leverage. ... Must develop some pass-rush moves.

5. Stewart Bradley, Nebraska

Positives: Exceptional athleticism and speed for his 6-3-plus, 258-pound frame. ... Hard hitter. ... Makes good use of hands to gain separation in one-on-one blocks. ... Versatility; could play in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. ... Competitiveness.

Negatives: Sometimes has problems moving through traffic. ... Durability; suffered a major knee injury in October 2005.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/analysis/expert/brandt/cb

Analysis by position: Cornerbacks

Position-by-position: DL · LB · CB · S · TE · ST · OL

By Gil Brandt
NFL.com Senior Analyst

(April 18, 2007) -- How important are cornerbacks in the NFL?

On March 2, the San Francisco 49ers gave Nate Clements an eight-year, $80 million contract, of which $22 million is guaranteed. This is the largest contract ever given to a defensive player in NFL history.

The Denver Broncos traded for and signed Dre' Bly to a five-year, $33 million contract, of which $16 million is guaranteed.

The franchise-player tag in 2007 for a cornerback is $7.79 million, which is $500,000 more than last year.

Because of the one-back and multiple-receiver sets, teams feel it's important to have three cornerbacks on the field a high percentage of the time in order to match up against all the fast receivers. Some teams played three cornerbacks as much as 62 percent of the time, with the least amount about 33.8 percent.

SIZE AND SPEED

Due to the increasing number of tall receivers in the NFL, height is becoming more of an important factor in drafting cornerbacks. Only three in the group this year are shorter than 5 feet 10 inches.

This is a fast group -- 20 have run the 40-yard dash in under 4.5 seconds.

Arkansas' Chris Houston had the fastest time (4.36).

Over the past 10 NFL drafts, 43 cornerbacks have been selected in Round 1 -- the most of any position. During that time, 89 more were selected in Rounds 2 and 3 -- also the most of any position.

The feeling around the league is that you can never have too many good cornerbacks, especially considering how the game is played these days. In the 2005 draft, the Broncos' first three picks were cornerbacks. In the 2002 draft, the Eagles drafted cornerbacks in the first two rounds even though both of their starting cornerbacks had been selected to the Pro Bowl the previous season.

The key trait for this position is speed -- speed to break on the ball, speed to turn and run with a wide receiver, and speed to come up in run support.

Here are my rankings for cornerbacks.


Darrelle Revis has few weaknesses and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball.

1. Darrelle Revis, Pittsburgh (5-11½, 204; 4.40)

Revis did not work out at the NFL Scouting Combine. He worked out March 16 at Pitt's Pro Day. He ran his 40s in 4.41 and 4.39 seconds, the short shuttle in 4.08 and the three-cone drill in 6.56. He also had a 38-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-5 broad jump and 15 bench presses. He also weighed eight pounds less than he did at the Combine. He played quarterback, running back, receiver and cornerback in high school. He also was an outstanding basketball player and ran track. At Pittsburgh, he started 11 games as a true freshman in 2004, and ended up starting 23 games over the next two seasons. He is smart and a very good person. He has the size you want for the position, and he's strong. He will support the run and plays with lots of confidence. He ran faster than people thought he could; he is somewhat of a long strider. He could be a safety, and he can return kicks. He has Pro Bowl-like ability.

2. Leon Hall, Michigan (5-11¼, 193; 4.42)

Hall had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.38 and 4.46, the short shuttle in 4.07 and the three-cone drill in 6.50. He also had a 37½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-6 broad jump and 15 lifts. He played quarterback, wide receiver and cornerback in high school, and also ran track. At Michigan, he started three games as a true freshman, and wound up starting 37 games during his four-year career with 12 interceptions. Hall is smart, mature and well-liked; he's an outstanding person. He can play press coverage and plays against the run well. He does not play as fast as his timed speed; you expect more from him as far as making plays. He has sure hands; he can return punts. Hall is a good competitor who will start in the NFL, but I'm not sure this is a Pro Bowl player.

3. Aaron Ross, Texas (6-0½, 193; 4.46)

Ross had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.45 and 4.47, the short shuttle in 4.15 and the three-cone drill in 6.67. He also had a 34-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-10 broad jump and 17 bench presses. He was a defensive back, sprinter and basketball player in high school. He had 10 interceptions and 10 blocked kicks in his final two years in high school. However, he was barred from playing for Texas for two years when the NCAA clearinghouse detected an error on his transcript (he chose to go back to his high school and retake his sophomore English class). At Texas, he played in 2003 and 2004 but did not start. He started two games in 2005 and returned two kicks for touchdowns. He started 13 games in 2006, and while playing hurt had six interceptions. He is a very instinctive player with very good recognition. He has very good hands and was a good punt returner. He has a long body with short legs. He's not a great tackler; he needs to play lower. He is very competitive and a good character person. I think he will be a very solid player. He will turn 25 in September.

4. Eric Wright, UNLV (5-10 5/8, 192; 4.37)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his two 40s in 4.37 and 4.36, the short shuttle in 4.23 and the three-cone drill in 6.94. He also had a 38½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-3 broad jump and 16 bench presses. He was a running back and defensive back in high school. He began his college career at Southern California and was redshirted in 2003. He started four games late in the 2004 season. In March 2005, he was arrested on suspicion of rape and left school. He transferred to UNLV and had to sit out the 2005 season. In 2006, he started six games and missed three because of a knee injury. He had a great workout at the Combine. He has lots of natural ability with the coverage skills you want for the position. He needs to play more physical. When you talk to him, he will convince you he did nothing wrong and his roommate was to blame (the police found over 100 ecstasy pills in his apartment). He is a wild-card pick whom I think will be pretty good.


5. Marcus McCauley, Fresno State (6-0¾, 203; 4.40)

He ran two 40s in 4.39 and 4.41, the short shuttle in 4.17 and the three-cone drill in 6.61. He also had a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-9 broad jump and 17 bench presses. In high school, he played running back, wide receiver and defensive back; he also excelled as a basketball player. At Fresno State, he redshirted in 2002, played some in 2003 and started 32 games over his final three seasons. McCauley has the height you want at the position and the quickness to excel at it. He can play press coverage. He's smart, tough and will compete. After he sustained a concussion against Oregon, his play went downhill. He played great in 2005, but not so good in 2006 (he was benched for a time). Was it the injury or an agent that caused the problem? Based on his 2005 performance, he has Pro Bowl potential. Based on his 2006 performance -- as well as that of his entire team, which didn't play well -- he might have to wait until Day 2 to get drafted. I think he will play well in the NFL.

6. Chris Houston, Arkansas (5-9 7/8, 186; 4.36)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.32 and 4.40, the short shuttle in 4.12 and the three-cone drill in 6.94. He had a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-2 broad jump and 27 bench presses. In high school, he played running back and cornerback, and also played basketball. At Arkansas, he redshirted in 2003, then started 13 games over the next two seasons with no interceptions. He started all 14 games in 2006 and picked off three passes. He played well last season against Day 1 wide receivers Robert Meacham (Tennessee), Dwayne Bowe (LSU) and Dwayne Jarrett (USC Trojans). He has a good burst to the ball, but his ball skills are only OK. He was flagged for lots of pass-interference calls. He needs to improve against the run. He has toughness and is a big talker. He has a very strong upper body. His speed will convince some team to reach for him; he's a lot like Ahmad Carroll when he came out of school. He will be a good special-teams player. I think he will start, but won't be a star.

7. Josh Wilson, Maryland (5-9¼, 189; 4.42)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.40 and 4.42, the short shuttle in 4.43 and the three-cone drill in 7.10. He also had a 36½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot broad jump and 20 bench presses. In high school, he was a wide receiver and cornerback, as well as a sprinter. At Maryland, he played as a true freshman in 2003. He started 28 games over his last three seasons at cornerback and had a 27.3-yard average returning kickoffs in 2006. He also sprinted for the track team in 2006. Wilson has the speed and acceleration to play the position, but is not a real good tackler. He has good man-coverage skills. He plays hard but lacks great size (thin legs). He's smart and has good character. Most likely in the NFL, he will be a third cornerback and might get to return kicks.

8. Daymeion Hughes, California (5-10 1/8, 190; 4.68)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.65 and 4.72, the short shuttle in 4.42 and the three-cone drill in 7.28. He also had a 28½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-6 broad jump and 16 bench presses. He had an even better workout at Cal's Pro Day on March 6: His weight was down to 185, he ran his 40s in 4.56 and 4.58, and his cone time was 7.03. In high school, he ran track, played basketball and tennis, and played defensive back. At Cal, he started five games as a true freshman, and started 36 games over the next three seasons. He had 15 interceptions in his career. He has good quickness with change-of-direction ability and very good hands, but without great size or speed. He had very good production in college. He's a good player and person. Most likely in the NFL, he will play zone corner for a Cover 2 team.

9. A.J. Davis, North Carolina State (5-10, 193; 4.59)

A groin injury prevented him from working out at the Combine. At the Wolfpack's Pro Day on March 20, he ran his 40s in 4.56 and 4.61 seconds, and the three-cone drill in 7.10. He had 16 bench presses and did not jump. In high school, he played cornerback and wide receiver. He once returned three punts for touchdowns in one game. He also set the state record in the long jump (24 feet 10 inches) and was outstanding in the triple jump. He was said to be the fastest player at the U.S. Army All-America Game. At N.C. State, he redshirted in 2002 because of injury. He played but did not start in 2003-04, then started 22 games in 2005-06. He has good cover skills and good hands (even though they're only 8½ inches). He will compete, but needs to be tough. Davis is a disciplined player who lacks size and top timed speed.

10. Jonathan Wade, Tennessee (5-10, 195; 4.41)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.36 and 4.46, the short shuttle in 4.40 and the three-cone drill in 7.07. He also had a 40½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-8 broad jump and eight bench presses. In high school, he was a state champion in the 100 meters (10.15) and set a state record in the 200 meters (20.95). As a true freshman at Tennessee, he started three games as a wide receiver in 2002. He was a medical redshirt in 2003, then switched to defensive back. He started 25 games over his last three seasons with six interceptions (he returned one for a touchdown). He has outstanding speed and he breaks on the ball well when it is in front of him. He needs to improve his toughness. He's a track man playing football, so he's a risk because of his toughness, but with his speed, he will be a bonus if he gets tougher.

DID YOU KNOW?

In NFL draft history, only one defensive back has been selected with the first overall pick -- Gary Glick (Pittsburgh, 1956).

Since 1996, the highest a cornerback has been drafted is third, when Seattle took Shawn Springs.

Michigan's Leon Hall holds the school record for the longest fumble return for a touchdown (83 yards).

Two days after playing for the state high school championship in football, Darrelle Revis (Pitt) scored 35 points in a basketball game against rival Beaver Falls, Pa.

Maryland's Josh Wilson's father, Tim Wilson, was drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1977 in the third round (No. 66 overall). He blocked for Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell. He played 101 games in eight seasons.

C.J. Gaddis is the first non-starter in Clemson history to have an interception in three consecutive games.

11. Fred Bennett, South Carolina (6-0 7/8, 196; 4.48)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.46 and 4.50, the short shuttle in 4.30 and the three-cone drill in 6.67. He also had a 38½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-5 broad jump and 17 bench presses. He signed with the Gamecocks in 2002, but spent a year at Hargrave Military Prep School before coming to Columbia. He played as a true freshman in 2003, then amassed 33 starts and nine interceptions over the next three seasons. He has the size you want for the position, but needs to get tougher and tackle better (he plays too high). He does a good job in man coverage. He's a size-and-speed prospect who needs lots of work.

12. Tarell Brown, Texas (5-10 5/8, 190; 4.48)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.46 and 4.49, the short shuttle in 4.37 and the three-cone drill in 7.00. He also had a 33½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-3 broad jump and 17 bench presses. In his final two years of high school, he rushed for more than 3,000 yards and 42 touchdowns. He also was a first-team defensive back on the Parade All-America squad. He also started on the basketball team. At Texas, he played as a true freshman in 2003, and started 35 games over the next three seasons, but had only three interceptions in his Longhorns career. He was suspended for the first game of the 2006 season on a police matter. The charges were dropped, but he has had problems since the Combine. He sent results of an independent drug test to all the NFL teams after a scrape with the law in late March. Brown is tough; he played the 2006 season with a foot injury. He has good man-coverage skills and will support the run. His hands are only average, and he plays high. He plays with a lot of confidence, but he needs to not let outsiders influence him. He will play as a third cornerback in the NFL -- if he stays out of trouble.


OTHERS (in alphabetical order)

Anthony Arline, Baylor (6-1¾, 199; 4.45)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.43 and 4.47, the short shuttle in 4.46 and the three-cone drill in 7.02. He also had a 34½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-4 broad jump and 12 bench presses. In high school, he was a wide receiver and defensive back, and returned four kicks for touchdowns. At Baylor, he was a redshirt in 2002, started two games in 2003, and started 31 games over his final three seasons. He has the size for the position, but needs to be more physical. He's a cornerback with development potential.

Travarous Bain, Hampton (6-0¼, 182; 4.46)

At the Combine, he ran his 40s in 4.45 and 4.46 and lifted the bar 10 times. In high school, he played defensive back and ran track. He started his college career as a Miami Hurricane in 2002, but transferred to Hampton in 2005. He started eight games in 2005 and played in 12 in 2006. He has man-coverage ability, but isn't strong. He needs a lot of work, but he can get stronger with a weight program.

C.J. Gaddis, Clemson (5-11½, 203; 4.48)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.45 and 4.50, the short shuttle in 4.36 and the three-cone drill in 7.28. He also had a 36½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-1 broad jump and 20 bench presses. In high school, he was a quarterback and played baseball well enough to get drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 2003. At Clemson, he was a redshirt in 2003. He played safety in 2005 and started five games. He played corner in 2006; he also played one game at safety and another at linebacker. He should not have left school early. He is a project who might be a better fit at safety.

David Irons, Auburn (5-10¼, 190; 4.50)

He had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his 40s in 4.44 and 4.55, the short shuttle in 4.30 and the three-cone drill in 7.18. He also had a 29½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-3 broad jump and 11 bench presses. On Auburn's Pro Day on March 12, he did not run or jump; he did get his weight down to 184. In high school, he ran track and played running back; his brother, Kenny Irons, blocked for him. As a cornerback, he is best in press coverage. He plays hard, but has had a lot of injuries.

Ramzee Robinson, Alabama (5-9, 195; 4.52)

He was not invited to the Combine. At Alabama's Pro Day on March 21, he ran his 40s in 4.50 and 4.53, the short shuttle in 4.22 and the three-cone drill in 6.71. He also had a 35-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot broad jump and 23 bench presses. He played quarterback in high school. He was a redshirt in 2002. He's good in man coverage and very quick. He was a three-year starter in a good program. His height might be a problem, but he has ability.

Kenny Scott, Georgia Tech (6-0 7/8, 179; 4.40)

At the Combine, he ran his 40s in 4.39 and 4.41 seconds. He also had a 40-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-7 broad jump and 10 bench presses. On Georgia Tech's Pro Day on March 15, he ran the short shuttle in 4.34 seconds and the three-cone drill in 6.93. In high school, he was a running back and cornerback. At Georgia Tech, he played as a true freshman in 2003, and started 36 games over his final three seasons. He has good speed and cover skills, but lacks bulk and toughness. His maturity has been questioned.

Usama Young, Kent State (5-11, 196; 4.40)

He was not invited to the Combine. At Kent State's Pro Day on March 9, he ran his 40s in 4.39 and 4.40 seconds, the short shuttle in 4.31 and the three-cone drill in 6.65. He also had a 43-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-11 broad jump and 15 strength lifts. In high school, he played wide receiver and defensive back. At Kent State, he started as a true freshman and wound up starting in 40 games over his four-year career. He has very good cover skills. He's tough and a hard worker. He was a productive player who was good on special teams. He could be the first player drafted this year who wasn't invited to the Combine.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/analysis/expert/brandt/s

Analysis by position: Safeties

Position-by-position: DL · LB · CB · S · TE · ST · OL

By Gil Brandt
NFL.com Senior Analyst

(April 19, 2007)

-- The safety position seems to become more important every year, but it still ranks behind cornerback when the draft comes around.

For the safety position, teams are looking for someone who can tackle, blitz and be able to run with receivers, tight ends and running backs.

In the 2006 NFL Draft, two safeties (Michael Huff at No. 7 and Donte Whitner at No. 8) were picked before the first corner was selected (Tye Hill at No. 15). Is this the start of a trend where teams are putting more importance on this position? Most likely, the first defensive back selected this year will be LSU safety LaRon Landry, who could go in the top eight picks. Two others, Michael Griffin of Texas and Reggie Nelson of Florida, could also be first-round picks. Not since 1998 have three safeties been taken in the first round.


SIZE AND SPEED

The tallest safety in this year's draft class is Aaron Rouse of Virginia Tech at 6-foot-4. The heaviest is Brandon Harrison of Stanford at 227 pounds. The fastest is LaRon Landry of LSU with a 4.38 40-yard dash time. The best vertical jump belongs to Gerald Alexander of Boise State at 41 inches. The best long jump comes from Daren Stone of Maine at 11-feet.

In two of the past 10 years (2000 and 1997), no safeties were selected in the first round.

Two of the best safeties of all time -- Willie Wood of Green Bay and Cliff Harris of Dallas -- were undrafted free agents.

Both players were selected to All-Decade Teams and Wood was elected to the Hall of Fame. The two combined to play in 13 Pro Bowls and played for four Super Bowl-winning teams.

In order to be a top player at this position, one needs to be a good tackler, as many teams now play eight defenders in the box against the run. You have to be a good blitzer and be able to cover big, fast tight ends, and speedy receivers.

It also doesn't hurt to be a good special teams performer. Brian Dawkins (Philadelphia) and John Lynch (Denver) are perfect in that respect.

1. LaRon Landry, LSU (6-0½, 213, 4.38)

Landry worked out at the Combine and ran his two 40-yard dashes in 4.35 and 4.40. He also recorded a 37½-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-3 long jump. At LSU's Pro Day on March 14, he ran 4.34 in the short shuttle and 7.32 in the three-cone drill and did 20 bench presses. Landry played quarterback and defensive back in high school, recording 16 touchdowns on offense and eight interceptions as a defensive back. He started 10 games as a true freshman at LSU in 2003 and earned second-team All-SEC honors. He started 38 games over the next three years at both strong and free safety. Landry is a hard-working player who plays smart and is very instinctive. He is a big hitter, a very good tackler, and he has very good anticipation. He doesn't have great hands and will drop some interceptions. He should start as a rookie and play in a lot of Pro Bowls during his career.


Michael Griffin was the Longhorns' leading tackler the past two seasons.

2. Michael Griffin, Texas (5-11¾, 202, 4.48)

Griffin had a complete workout at the Combine, where he recorded a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.10 short shuttle, 6.60 three-cone drill and 16 bench presses. At the Texas Pro Day on March 21, he ran 4.43 in the 40-yard dash. Griffin played running back and defensive back in high school. He ran for 2,127 yards and 25 touchdowns and earned honors statewide on both offense and defense. Griffin played as a true freshman at Texas, starting two games, and went on to start 25 games over the last two years. He had over 120 tackles each season and also blocked four kicks in 2005. Griffin has very good athletic ability and has good ball skills. He can play either safety position and has kick-blocking ability. He needs to tackle better but has talent. He could be a cornerback prospect and will be a very good special teams player. He has great character and will play a long time at a high level.

3. Reggie Nelson, Florida (5-11 3/8, 198, 4.51)

Nelson worked out at the Combine and ran his two 40s in 4.48 and 4.54. He also recorded a 34½-inch vertical jump. At Florida's Pro Day on March 7, he ran 4.06 in the short shuttle and 6.70 in the three-cone drill and had a 10-foot-6 long jump. Nelson played defensive back in high school in Florida and later at Coffeyville (Kan.) Junior College, where he played one season and had six interceptions and four blocked kicks. He started four games at Florida in 2005 and started all 14 games in 2006. He could have played for the Gators in 2007 but left school early. Nelson is an outstanding athlete with great feet and a great burst on the ball. He is a good tackler and is a possible cornerback prospect. He will be a good special teams player. He will have to work hard to master the mental part of the game. He is not real strong and did not lift at the Combine or his Pro Day. If he masters the game plan week to week, he will be a good player.

4. Brandon Meriweather, Miami (5-10 5/8, 195, 4.50)

Meriweather had a complete workout at the Combine and ran his 40s in 4.47 and 4.52. He also recorded a 35-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-1 long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 7.06 three-cone drill and 11 bench presses. Meriweather played defensive back and some quarterback on his high school team that won the state championship in Florida. He returned four kicks for touchdowns and also played basketball and ran track. Meriweather played at 165 pounds as a freshman at Miami in 2002 but was injured in the third game and received a medical redshirt. He started only one game in 2003. He played strong safety and nickel corner in 2005 and led the team in tackles. He started 12 games in 2006, including three at corner. Meriweather is a very instinctive player with good cover skills in press coverage. He had an off-the-field problem and was involved in a brawl against Florida International, getting a one-game suspension. He's not real strong and is built like Ed Reed (Ravens), who has played well. He is a good player but there are concerns about his thin body holding up.


INSIDE THE SCOUTS

What scouts look for when grading safeties:

Critical factors

1. Character
2. Ability to learn football
3. Competitiveness and toughness
4. Work habits
5. Athletic ability

Position specifics

1. Man-to-man coverage ability
2. Zone coverage ability
3. Backpedal
4. Break from pedal
5. Run support
6. Tackling ability
7. Closing quickness
8. Deep acceleration
9. Playing the ball
10. Hands

5. Tanard Jackson, Syracuse (6-0, 200, 4.54)

Jackson had a complete workout at the Combine and ran his two 40s in 4.52 and 4.56. He also recorded a 32½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-1 long jump, 4.26 short shuttle, 6.89 three-cone drill and 12 bench presses. Jackson played running back and defensive back in high school and set a school record with 19 interceptions. He played as a true freshman at Syracuse in 2003 and started the next three years at cornerback. Jackson is a very good athlete and competitor and will tackle. He gives good effort and played after dislocating a shoulder in October 2006. He also played on kicking teams. He played safety at the Senior Bowl and did a good job. He ran well at the Syracuse Pro Day, posting times of 4.49 and 4.53 in the 40-yard dash at 195 pounds. He has very small hands (8½ inches). He may be best on a team that plays the Tampa Cover 2 system. He will be a solid player but needs to work on his ball skills.

6. Josh Gattis, Wake Forest (6-1, 206, 4.55)

Gattis had a complete workout at the Combine and ran his two 40s in 4.51 and 4.58. He also recorded a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-1 long jump, 4.27 short shuttle, 6.72 three-cone drill and 22 bench presses. Gattis played defensive back in high school and was also outstanding in track as a sprinter and state-champion hurdler. He also played basketball. Gattis was redshirted in 2002 at Wake Forest and was a backup player in 2003. He started 33 games over the next three years. Gattis is a solid player, smart and has coverage ability. He is well coached and understands the game. He has good hands and will not make mistakes. He has great character but needs to be a better tackler. He will be a steady player and play several years but may not ever play in a Pro Bowl.

7. Eric Weddle, Utah (5-11¼, 203, 4.52)

Weddle had a complete workout at the Combine and ran his two 40s in 4.48 and 4.60. He also recorded a 33½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-5 long jump, 4.12 short shuttle, 6.76 three-cone drill and 11 bench presses. Weddle was a two-time league offensive and defensive MVP in high school, playing running back, wide receiver and defensive back. He also played basketball and baseball. Weddle played as a true freshman at Utah, starting nine games at cornerback. He played strong safety in 2004 and part of 2005 before moving back to corner. He returned two interceptions for touchdowns in 2006. Weddle knows how to play the game and is a smart, outstanding competitor. He has good quickness and ball skills but lacks the size for safety and is not fluid enough to play corner. He will be a solid player and has a way of making plays that win games.

8. Sabby Piscitelli, Oregon State (6-3¾, 224, 4.50)

Piscitelli had a complete workout at the Combine and ran his two 40s in 4.48 and 4.52. He also recorded a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-2 long jump, 3.90 short shuttle, 6.64 three-cone drill and 19 bench presses. Piscitelli did not play football until his junior year in high school. He was an outstanding baseball player until he suffered an elbow injury. Piscitelli redshirted in 2002 at Oregon State and played mostly on special teams in 2003. He started 37 games over the next three years and had 15 interceptions. Piscitelli looks the part with a well-built, strong body and good straight-line speed. He does not have long arms (30¼ inches) or hands (8¾ inches). He is not a good tackler and is not good in coverage but makes plays and is a first-team All-Pac-10 player.

DID YOU KNOW?

LaRon Landry of LSU has a brother, Dawan, who was drafted in the fifth round (146th overall) by the Baltimore Ravens in 2006 and started every game last season.

Gerald Alexander of Boise State, who has a 41-inch vertical jump, blocked a potential game-winning field goal against San Jose State in 2006 to help keep his team undefeated. Boise State finished 13-0.

J.D. Nelson's father, Darren, was the seventh pick in the 1982 draft and played in 152 games during his 11-year NFL career.

Michael Johnson's brother, Reggie Brown, was the 17th overall pick in the draft by Detroit in 1996.

The highest pick used on a safety since the 1967 merger was in 1991 when Cleveland took Eric Turner No. 2 overall.

Two Super Bowl MVPs have been safeties -- Jake Scott (Super Bowl VII) and Dexter Jackson (Super Bowl XXXVII)

Head coaches Tony Dungy of the Colts and Jeff Fisher of the Titans both played safety in the NFL and both started at least 45 games.

9. Gerald Alexander, Boise State (6-0 3/8, 210, 4.53)

Alexander had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.51 and 4.54. He also recorded a 41-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-4 long jump, 4.21 short shuttle, 7.24 three-cone drill and 15 bench presses. Alexander played quarterback and running back in high school and also was a 6-foot-6 high-jumper. He redshirted and did not play at Boise State in 2002. He played as the third cornerback in 2003 and started at cornerback in 2004 and 2005 and at safety in 2006. He recorded nine career interceptions. Alexander is a very athletic player who plays hard all the time. He is strong, can play the slot position, and most of all can jump. He has good but not great speed or instincts. He will help a team by being able to play more than one position and also on special teams.

The following players are listed in alphabetical order. Every player listed below has some ability to play in the NFL, and most likely they will be picked in Rounds 4-7.

Michael Coe, Alabama State (6-0 5/8, 190, 4.57)

Coe had a complete workout at the Combine, running the 40-yard dash in 4.57. He also recorded a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-2 long jump, 4.31 short shuttle, 6.78 three-cone drill and 17 bench presses. At Alabama State's Pro Day on March 9, he ran the 40 in 4.44 before pulling a hamstring. Coe started college at Arkansas, where he played as a wide receiver before being moved to cornerback in 2003. He started 14 games at Arkansas before transferring to Alabama State to play for his father. Coe's week at the East-West Game was much better than his performance at the Combine, where he dropped several passes. He is a very competitive player and the speed he showed at the Pro Day was much better than at the Combine. He will be a good special teams player.

Craig Dahl, North Dakota State (6-1¾, 216, 4.59)

Dahl had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.57 and 4.61. He also recorded a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-2 long jump, 4.28 short shuttle, 6.69 three-cone drill and 17 bench presses. Dahl played quarterback in high school, running for 3,398 yards and passing for 1,769 yards over his final two years while scoring 57 touchdowns. He also played basketball and was in the track program as a high jumper and long jumper. Dahl played as a true freshman at North Dakota State in 2003 and started the next three years. He is a competitive, smart player. He was a good tackler at the Division I-AA level, but will he be able to keep up with the fast NFL players he will need to cover? He will be a very good special teams player.


Eric Frampton had six interceptions his senior season at Washington State.

Eric Frampton, Washington State (5-11, 204, 4.64)

Frampton had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.61 and 4.69. He also recorded a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-2 long jump, 4.18 short shuttle, 6.84 three-cone drill and 10 bench presses. Frampton played running back in high school. He redshirted in 2002 at Washington State as a cornerback and played safety the past four years. Frampton is a very tough, competitive player and a hard worker. He is a very good special teams player but lacks the top cover ability for the position.

Michael Johnson, Arizona (6-2 5/8, 205, 4.67)

Johnson had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.62 and 4.71. He also recorded a 33-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-6 long jump, 4.32 short shuttle, 7.04 three-cone drill and 15 bench presses. At Arizona's Pro Day on March 10, he ran his 40s in 4.53 and 4.58. Johnson was a junior college player who played two years at Arizona, taking the starting job away from a three-year starter. He had three interceptions in his first game as a starter. He shows ability and has good ball skills but some question his toughness.

Kevin Payne, Louisiana-Monroe (6-0¼, 220, 4.61)

Payne had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.60 and 4.62. He also recorded a 38½ vertical jump, 8-foot-10 long jump, 4.30 short shuttle, 7.00 three-cone drill and 20 bench presses. At Louisiana-Monroe's Pro Day on March 8, he ran his 40s in 4.53 and 4.56. Payne played running back in high school, running for 1,700 yards and 26 touchdowns. He was also a good basketball player and an all-state catcher in baseball. Payne redshirted at Louisiana-Monroe in 2002 and led the team in rushing in 2003. He has played safety the past two years. Payne has very good athletic ability and the size you want for the position. He can return kicks and has special teams ability.

Aaron Rouse, Virginia Tech (6-4, 223, 4.58)

Rouse worked out at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.56 and 4.60. He also recorded a 34-inch vertical jump and 16 bench presses. At Virginia Tech's Pro Day on March 15, he had a 10-foot-1 long jump, 4.19 short shuttle and 6.81 three-cone drill. Rouse played eight positions in high school and set a school record by blocking eight kicks. He was a two-year starter at Virginia Tech. Rouse is better playing in the box and he may not be able to change directions well enough to play safety.

Daren Stone, Maine (6-3¼, 218, 4.60)

Stone had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.62 and 4.58. He also recorded a 39-inch vertical jump, 11-foot long jump, 4.44 short shuttle, 7.13 three-cone drill and 13 bench presses. Stone played defensive back and wide receiver in high school. He played as a true freshman at Maine as a safety and also played cornerback in 2005. He had 10 career interceptions. Stone is good against the run but needs to stay healthy. He has good size with long arms (34 inches).

John Wendling, Wyoming (6-1¼, 222, 4.50)

Wendling had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.48 and 4.52. He also recorded a 38½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-9 long jump, 4.16 short shuttle, 6.96 three-cone drill and 22 bench presses. Wendling played running back and defensive back in high school and won the state championship in the long jump. He redshirted at Wyoming in 2002 and went on to start 36 games at safety for the Cowboys. Wendling is a very good athlete with straight-line speed. He is a very smart player (he was recruited by Harvard, Princeton and Stanford) and has outstanding character.

[woodbuck27]

http://<span style="font-size:48px">...andt/dl</span>

Analysis by position: Defensive linemen

Position-by-position: DL · LB · CB · S · TE · ST · OL

By Gil Brandt
NFL.com Senior Analyst

(April 16, 2007)

-- How important are defensive linemen? Over the past 10 years (1997-2006), we have had 20 selected in the top 10 picks of the draft.

In comparison, over this same time period, 15 quarterback, 12 offensive linemen and 11 running backs have been selected in the top 10 picks.

Since 1967 (40 drafts), 12 defensive linemen have been selected first overall; only the quarterback position with 15 has had more No. 1 overall picks.


SIZE AND SPEED

The average weight of the 50 defensive linemen at the Scouting Combine was 283 pounds with an average of 20.4 percent body fat. The lowest body fat was 10.9 percent and the highest was 31.5 percent. The heaviest defensive lineman was Paul Soliai of Utah at 344 pounds. The lightest was Abraham Wright of Colorado at 242 pounds. Jarvis Moss of Florida was the tallest at 6-foot-6½ and Keith Jackson of Arkansas was the shortest at 6-0¼.

In the 2003 NFL Draft, 11 defensive linemen were selected in the first round -- the most ever. Of the 11, nine remain with the team they were selected by. In the 2005 NFL Draft, 20 defensive linemen were taken in the first three rounds; that compares to 19 offensive linemen that were picked in Rounds 1-3.

The six teams that have played in the last three Super Bowls have had very good defensive lines with lots of sacks. Only one team, the 2006 Colts, had fewer than 40 sacks in the regular season, and the average of the six Super Bowl teams was 42.3 sacks. To win games, teams must be able to stop the run and pressure the passer, which helps defensive backs play well. Defensive ends that can apply pressure from the quarterback's blind side are a real asset.

For defensive ends, size is needed on the strong side, while speed is the key trait on the weak side. For defensive tackles, a key trait is to be able to play the run.

More and more, NFL teams are looking for linemen who can thrive in a 3-4 defense. In 2001, only one team played a 3-4. In 2007, most likely 10-plus teams will play the 3-4 as one of their defenses. Three of the past four Super Bowl champions have employed the 3-4 scheme.

1. Gaines Adams, Clemson (6-4¾, 258, 4.67)

Adams had a complete workout at the Combine except for lifting. He ran his two 40s in 4.64 and 4.69. He also recorded a 35-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-11 long jump, 4.36 short shuttle and 7.17 three-cone drill. He did 21 bench presses at Clemson's Pro Day on March 13. Adams played eight-man football in high school, playing wide receiver, where he posted 158 catches and 65 touchdowns, and defensive back. His team won the South Carolina state championship in 2000. He also played one year at Fork Union Prep before he entered Clemson in 2002. Adams started at Clemson the past two seasons. In 25 starts, he had 22 sacks and 15 tipped passes. He was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2006. Adams is an outstanding athlete who is just learning the game. He has outstanding quickness and speed to rush the passer, plays with leverage and effort, and has toughness and plays physically. He does not play the run as well as you would like, but he is getting better. He needs to get stronger, and he will. He is an older player; he will be 24 years old in June. He has traits you look for in pass-rushing ability, and has long arms (34 1/8 inches.)


Alan Branch has the size and strength that is ideal for a defensive tackle.

2. Alan Branch, Michigan (6-5¾, 324, 5.08)

Branch worked out at the Combine but did not do shuttles. He ran his two 40s in 5.07 and 5.08 and also recorded a 27½-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-11 long jump and 33 bench presses. At Michigan's Pro Day, he had a 4.79 short shuttle and 7.56 three-cone drill. Branch played high school football in New Mexico, playing both running back and defensive line. He was the high school Player of the Year in New Mexico and played in the 2004 Army All-America game. He also started on the basketball team. Branch played as a true freshman at Michigan in 2004 and started 10 games in 2005 and 13 in 2006. Branch has great size and strength for the defensive tackle position and has very good movement in the short area. He does not play hard on every down and needs to play lower. He will rise up sometimes, which may happen when he gets tired as he did not play in a rotation as most NFL teams use. This type of defensive lineman has decent but not great athletic ability. His numbers give him a chance to be a top-flight player.

3. Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas (6-5 3/8, 283, 4.79)

Anderson did not work out at the Combine due to a hamstring problem, but he did everything at Arkansas' Pro Day on March 13. He ran his two 40s in 4.78 and 4.79 and also recorded a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-8 long jump, 4.15 short shuttle, 6.87 three-cone drill and 22 bench presses. Anderson played defensive end and wide receiver in high school and also was an outstanding basketball player. He played as a true freshman in 2004 and started five games as a sophomore in 2005. He was a full-time starter in 2006 and had 13 sacks in 14 games. Anderson has good explosion on his first step and plays with energy and emotion. He is very young, just turning 21 years old on Feb. 6, but is very alert as a player. He is big and will get bigger, has good production, and plays hard all the time. He has to improve against the run and needs to improve his use of his hands. He should have a long career at a high level as his best football is ahead of him.

4. Adam Carriker, Nebraska (6-6, 296, 4.91)

Carriker had a complete workout at the Combine, running his two 40s in 4.90 and 4.91. He also recorded a 31½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-2 long jump, 4.16 short shuttle, 7.08 three-cone drill and 33 bench presses. At Nebraska's Pro Day, he ran 4.71 and 4.74 in the 40-yard dash when his weight was 291 pounds. Carriker played quarterback and defensive end in high school. He was a three-year starter at quarterback and also played baseball. Carriker redshirted in 2002 at Nebraska and played nine games in 2003. He started the past three years and had 20½ sacks, and he was named the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2006. Carriker has outstanding strength, gives very good effort, and is a hard worker. He can change direction and is a student of the game. He can play inside at defensive tackle or outside as an end. He is not a great pass rusher as he does not consistently rid himself of blockers. He is a very good, solid player who will play many years but not in a lot of Pro Bowls.

5. Amobi Okoye, Louisville (6-2, 306, 5.07)

Okoye worked out at the Combine but only ran one 40-yard dash, posting a time of 5.07, and didn't do the short shuttle. He did do 29 bench presses and worked out again at Louisville's Pro Day, running under 5.00 in the 40 and recording a 4.44 short shuttle. Okoye was born in Nigeria and moved to Huntsville, Ala., as a 12-year-old. He was tested and entered into the ninth grade, where he started playing football for the first time. He started 13 games as a defensive lineman at 13 years of age. Okoye started for two years at Louisville (2005 and 2006) and had eight sacks as a senior in 2006. He played in 13 games in 2003 as a 16-year-old. Okoye has a big, thick body with a big chest. He has good use of hands, can control blockers and has quickness, agility and balance. He needs to play hard all the time. He worked and played better at the Senior Bowl than he did during the season at Louisville. He needs to watch his weight.

6. Justin Harrell, Tennessee (6-4 3/8, 300, 5.06)

Harrell had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his two 40s in 5.04 and 5.07 and also recorded a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot long jump, 4.79 short shuttle, 7.63 three-cone drill and 24 bench presses. He worked out again on March 21 at Tennessee's Pro Day when his weight was 314 pounds and he posted 31 bench presses. Harrell played tight end and defensive end in high school, where he was a three-year starter. He also played basketball, averaging 17 points a game as a senior. Harrell redshirted at Tennessee in 2002 and played the final eight games of 2003 after breaking his ankle before the season. He tore his bicep in September 2006 and tried to play with one arm. He would have been a three-year starter if not for injuries that forced him to miss starts. Harrell is a very athletic player who can be a difference-maker if healthy. He has long arms with good strength and can play nose tackle. He needs to learn to rush the passer better, but is a very solid player if healthy.


INSIDE THE SCOUTS

What scouts look for when grading defensive linemen:

Critical factors

1. Character
2. Ability to learn football
3. Competitiveness and toughness
4. Work habits
5. Athletic ability

Position specifics

1. Lateral quickness
2. Reactions
3. Strength at point
4. Explosion
5. Use of hands
6. Stays on feet
7. Pass rush
8. Tackling ability
9. Ability to drop into coverage

7. Jarvis Moss, Florida (6-6½, 250, 4.75)

Moss worked out at the Combine but didn't do shuttle drills. He ran his 40s in 4.70 and 4.80 and also recorded a 30½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump and 16 bench presses. He worked out again at Florida's Pro Day on March 7 when he weighed 258 pounds and ran 4.76 and 4.78 in the 40-yard dash. He also had a 4.41 short shuttle and 7.22 three-cone drill. He also did linebacker drills at the Combine. Moss was rated the No. 1 defensive player coming out of high school in Texas in 2003. His team won the Class 4A state championship his final two years in school. He had 49 sacks in three years despite missing seven games due to a hip injury as a senior. Moss became the second true freshman lineman to play at Florida since 2000 when he played in the 2003 season. He did not play in 2004 because of medical problems in his first two years at Florida, which are said to be the result of a cortisone shot he received his senior year in high school. Moss makes plays in big games. He blocked kicks to win against South Carolina, had three sacks against LSU in 2005 and had two sacks and forced a fumble in the BCS title game against Ohio State. He plays hard with a good burst off the edge and had a 1.59 in the 10-yard dash at the Combine. He lacks strength and gets knocked around and is not great against the run. He was suspended for one game last year for violating team rules. He didn't have a great Combine workout.

8. Anthony Spencer, Purdue (6-2 7/8, 281, 4.73)

Spencer had a complete workout at the Combine, running his 40s in 4.70 and 4.73. He also recorded a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-4 long jump, 4.43 short shuttle, 7.14 three-cone drill and 30 bench presses. He ran at Purdue's Pro Day on March 9, posting times of 4.71 and 4.69 in the 40, but he weighed 265 pounds, down 16 pounds from the Combine. Spencer played nose tackle and fullback in high school, scoring 13 touchdowns. He also played basketball. Spencer redshirted at Purdue in 2002 and played but did not start in 2003. He started 37 games over the past three years. He has outstanding athletic ability for the position and showed a lot of improvement in 2006, posting 10½ sacks after recording only three sacks in 2005. He has quickness and strength for the position but needs to play the run better. He does not use his hands as well as he should to get off blockers. He is a good, solid player with some pass-rush ability and also worked out as a 3-4 linebacker at the Combine.

9. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame (6-4¼, 267, 4.84)

Abiamiri ran his 40s at the Combine in 4.82 and 4.85 and did 25 bench presses. He did not jump or run the cone drill because of a hamstring injury. He worked out at Notre Dame's Pro Day on March 22 and had a 34-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-4 long jump, 4.39 short shuttle and 7.54 three-cone drill. Abiamiri played defensive line in high school and also played basketball and made all-conference in track and field. He played in 12 games, starting five, as a true freshman at Notre Dame in 2003. He started 25 games over the past two years and was the team captain. Abiamiri has the ability, size and strength to be a good player. He is a hard worker, very smart and a good character person. He had a great game vs. USC going against Winston Justice in 2005. He needs to improve as a pass rusher and his best position may be left end.



Ray McDonald was an All-SEC player his senior season at Florida.

10. Ray McDonald, Florida (6-3 3/8, 282, 4.90)

McDonald did not work out at the Combine due to an illness. He had a complete workout at Florida's Pro Day on March 7, running his 40s in 4.90 and 4.89. He also recorded a 29-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-6 long jump, 5.07 short shuttle, 7.48 three-cone drill and 28 bench presses. McDonald played defensive line in high school and was on a team that won the state championship his junior year. He was an elite high school player. McDonald redshirted at Florida in 2002. He became the fourth freshman to start a season opener in Florida history in 2003, starting 12 games that season. He played both end and tackle at Florida. McDonald has good athletic ability, so it's hard to explain his 5.07 time in the short shuttle. He plays very hard every play and has very good quickness for a big man. He has good use of his hands and is rarely knocked off his feet. He has had a history of injuries, including a partially torn anterior cruciate ligament, and lacks speed off the edge to play on the right side. He should be able to play well at left end or defensive tackle.

11. Lamarr Woodley, Michigan (6-1½, 266, 4.78)

Woodley did not work out at the Combine but did everything at Michigan's Pro Day on March 16. He ran his 40s in 4.80 and 4.95 and also recorded a 38½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-9 long jump, 4.47 short shuttle and 29 bench presses. Woodley was a top-ranked high school player (USA Today first-team All-American), playing defensive end and linebacker. He was also a good basketball player and threw the shot put. Woodley played as a true freshman at Michigan in 2003, appearing in 13 games and making two starts. He started 31 games over the next three years, playing both rush linebacker and defensive right end. Woodley is a great competitor who plays hard on every down and is a strong leader. He has everything you look for in a player; the question is where do you play him? Is he a 3-4 linebacker or a defensive end? He is not a great athlete but makes up for it with a never-stop attitude. He will play for a team some place and do a good job.

12. Tim Crowder, Texas (6-3 5/8, 272, 4.70)

Crowder had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran his two 40s in 4.69 and 4.71. He also recorded a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-3 long jump, 4.32 short shuttle, 7.25 three-cone drill and 32 bench presses. Crowder played defensive end and was a baseball player in high school. He played as a true freshman at Texas in 2002, starting nine games. He started 38 more games over the next three seasons. Crowder has very good work habits, moves well and has good strength and good awareness. He looked very good at the Combine but did not play as well on Saturdays as he looked working out. He's an up-and-down type that needs to play hard on every down and I'm not sure that he does. He's a very good person with no character issues and has great parents.

13. Ikaika Alama-Francis, Hawaii (6-5 1/8, 276, 4.88)

Alama-Francis was injured and did not work out at the Combine. He worked out at Hawaii's Pro Day on March 29, running his two 40s in 4.85 and 4.91. He also recorded a 35-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-5 long jump, 4.68 short shuttle and 7.29 three-cone drill. He did not do any strength lifts as he is recovering from a torn pectoral muscle. Alama-Francis did not play high school football and instead was a big-time basketball and volleyball player and also played baseball. He went to Hawaii in 2002 as a basketball player. Alama-Francis started playing football in 2003 as a backup, playing in six games with no starts. He started one game in 2004 and made 25 starts over the 2005 and 2006 seasons. He tore his pectoral muscle in the Hula Bowl, preventing him from working out at the Combine, and he still wasn't 100 percent at his recent workout. Alama-Francis has talent but is very inexperienced and was not really productive at Hawaii. He is the type of player that can be a big hit or a big miss. He worked out as a tight end and looked great catching the ball in drills.

14. Tank Tyler, N.C. State (6-2¼, 306, 5.24)

Tyler pulled a hamstring on his first run attempt at the Combine, but did have a 28½ vertical jump and 42 bench presses before getting hurt. He worked out on March 20 at North Carolina State's Pro Day, running his two 40s in 5.24 and 5.24. He also recorded an 8-foot long jump, 4.76 short shuttle and 7.47 three-cone drill. Tyler played offensive tackle and defensive tackle in high school. He graduated early from high school and entered N.C. State in January of 2003. He played but did not start in 2003, and went on to start 28 games over the next three seasons. He played offensive tackle in 2004 spring practice. Tyler has very good strength, is very good against the run and has some initial quickness. He needs to be better conditioned because he lacks stamina. He is not good as a pass rusher and takes plays off, which may be as a result of the lack of conditioning and being top heavy. If he gets in shape it might help him play better.


Wild Card

Marcus Thomas, Florida (6-2¾, 314, 5.25)

Thomas did not work out at the Combine, citing a pulled right quad, but did do 27 bench presses. He worked out March 29 in Jacksonville and ran his two 40s in 5.23 and 5.27. He also recorded a 26½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-5 long jump, 4.81 short shuttle and 8.03 three-cone drill. He looked good in drills and it's doubtful he was 100 percent. Thomas played defensive line and running back in high school and had 30 sacks as a senior. He became the first true freshman to start a game for Florida since 1992, playing 358 snaps, the third most among defensive tackles. He started 24 games over the next two years but was suspended early in the 2006 season for five games and was subsequently dismissed for not complying with the guidelines for reinstatement. Thomas has outstanding ability but has character issues and needs to stay in shape. He is a first-round talent who someone might take a chance on in the third round or later.

The following players are listed in alphabetical order. Every defensive lineman listed is a possible first-day pick.

Baraka Atkins, Miami, Fla. (6-4½, 271, 4.70)

Atkins recorded a 4.70 40-yard dash, 33-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-3 long jump, 4.63 short shuttle, 7.02 three-cone drill and 22 bench presses. He worked out well at the Combine. He has ability, but the numbers need to be more consistent. He had five sacks in 2006 and started 33 games the past three seasons.

Antwan Barnes, Florida International (6-0 5/8, 240, 4.44)

Barnes recorded times of 4.40 and 4.48 in the 40-yard dash and also had a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-2 long jump, 4.32 short shuttle, 7.29 three-cone drill and 31 bench presses. He played linebacker in high school and started 12 games as a true freshman at linebacker in 2003 at Florida International. He moved to defensive end after the third game of the 2005 season. He is very fast and his best chance is as an up-field pass rusher. He is somewhat like Robert Mathis of the Colts but more of a straight-line player. A player has never been drafted from FIU, which started football in 2002.

Dan Bazuin, Central Michigan (6-2 7/8, 266, 4.78)

Bazuin recorded a 4.78 40-yard dash, 30-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-1 long jump, 4.76 short shuttle, 7.08 three-cone drill and 25 bench presses. He plays with great effort and was the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. He played well against good teams (like Michigan) and had 26 sacks over the past two years.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ray McDonald's father, Ray, played wide receiver for the Florida Gators and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in October of 1985 when the Gators were ranked No. 1 in the polls for the first time in school history.

Keith Jackson's father, Keith, was a first-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1988 and played in six Pro Bowls as a tight end.

Marcus Thomas had 30 sacks as a senior in high school, two shy of the Florida high school record.

Gaines Adams played eight-man football in high school and caught 158 passes for 4,394 yards and 65 touchdowns. He also had 10 interceptions and 33 sacks.

Amobi Okoye, born June 10, 1987, will be the youngest player ever selected in the NFL draft. The previous youngest was Jean Fugett of Amherst in 1972 by the Dallas Cowboys in the 13th round. Fugett was 20 years and 48 days old.

Ikaika Alama-Francis' father, Joe, was drafted by the Green Bay Packers and was the first Hawaiian-born quarterback to play in the NFL.

Kareem Brown, Miami, Fla. (6-4, 290, 5.39)

Brown recorded a 5.39 40-yard dash, 27-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-5 long jump, 4.70 short shuttle and 7.49 three-cone drill. He didn't start until his senior year when he recorded 11 sacks. He does not play as well as he looks.

Charles Johnson, Georgia (6-2¼, 270, 4.84)

Johnson recorded a 4.84 40-yard dash, 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-10 long jump, 7.60 three-cone drill and 33 bench presses. He plays hard and has some pass-rush skills but has a hard time with bigger opponents. His senior year was his best season with 9½ sacks and 10 tipped passes. He left school one year early.

Ryan McBean, Oklahoma State (6-4 3/8, 286, 5.04)

McBean recorded a 5.04 40-yard dash, 28-inch vertical jump, 9-foot long jump, 4.46 short shuttle, 7.47 three-cone drill and 27 bench presses. He is a native of Jamaica and came to Oklahoma State after two years at a junior college. He started for two seasons for the Cowboys. He has some upside and has some good traits but is raw and needs a lot of work. He had 4½ sacks in 2006.

Turk McBride, Tennessee (6-2 3/8, 277, 4.83)

McBride recorded a 4.83 40-yard dash, 31-inch vertical jump, 9-foot long jump, 4.12 short shuttle, 7.10 three-cone drill and 27 bench presses. He played wide receiver in high school and is a very good athlete, posting a great short shuttle time. He played both defensive tackle and end for Tennessee. His lack of bulk hurts, but he has great work habits and effort. He could be a steal if drafted by the right team. He has 33-inch arms.

Brandon McBane, California (6-1 1/8, 309, 5.19)

McBane recorded a 5.19 40-yard dash, 24-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-10 long jump, 4.65 short shuttle, 7.94 three-cone drill and 24 bench presses. He was a three-year starter in a good program and is a very good competitor. He did well in Senior Bowl drill but needs to improve as a pass rusher. He lacks good quickness.

Jay Moore, Nebraska (6-4¾, 274, 4.98)

Moore recorded a 4.98 40-yard dash, 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-10 long jump, 4.35 short shuttle, 7.19 three-cone drill and 26 bench presses. At Nebraska's Pro Day, he ran his 40s in 4.75 and 4.83. He had three sacks and two forced fumbles in the Senior Bowl. If his Pro Day speed holds up, he could be a rush linebacker in a 3-4 defense. He's a competitive player who works hard.

Quinn Pitcock, Ohio State (6-2½, 299, 4.95)

Pitcock recorded a 4.95 40-yard dash, 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-4 long jump and 23 bench presses. He didn't do any shuttles or the three-cone drill and looks shorter than his measured height. He had a hard time at the Senior Bowl. He is a give-everything-you-have type. He may change positions.

Brian Robinson, Texas (6-3 1/8, 259, 4.72)

Robinson recorded a 4.72 40-yard dash, 40½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-1 long jump, 4.26 short shuttle, 6.91 three-cone drill and 27 bench presses. He came to Texas as a linebacker and started three games at the position in 2003. He moved to defensive end in 2004 and went on to start 33 games there. He is a very good athlete with good strength but needs to work on his pass rush. He was the Big 12 champion in the discus and shot put in 2006.

Paul Soliai, Utah (6-4, 344, 5.12)

Soliai recorded a 5.12 40-yard dash, 29ݫ-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-7 long jump, 4.69 short shuttle and 7.49 three-cone drill. He didn't do any strength lifts because of a right elbow sprain. He played offensive tackle until the 2005 season. He has very good physical ability but is not consistent. He had a good week at the East-West game. He is a hit-or-miss prospect but is too big and too athletic not to take a chance on.

[woodbuck27]

http://www.nfl.com/draft/analysis/expert/brandt/lb

Analysis by position: Linebackers

Position-by-position: DL · LB · CB · S · TE · ST · OL

By Gil Brandt
NFL.com Senior Analyst

(April 17, 2007)

-- From 2001-05, only nine linebackers were drafted in the first round. In last year's draft, we had five drafted in the first 22 picks of Round 1 and 16 (12 outside, four inside) in the first three rounds.

The 12 outside linebackers are the most in one draft over the past 10 years. Over the past 10 drafts, 31 linebackers have been selected in Round 1. Over this 10-year period, only six have been selected in the first 10 picks (LaVar Arrington, Chris Claiborne, James Farrior, A.J. Hawk, Ernie Sims and Brian Urlacher). It is doubtful that one will be selected in the top 10 this year.

The 36 linebackers at this year's Combine averaged 236.6 pounds -- the smallest was 220 and the largest was 253.

The average body fat of the 36 was 13.1 percent.

Three of the 36 ran 4.50 or faster (Antwan Barnes, 4.45; Quincy Black, 4.42; and Justin Durant, 4.50).

With more teams going to the 3-4 defense, we are going to see teams draft players who played defensive line and try to convert them to players who can play down and rush the passer, and also play up and play in space. Last year, San Francisco drafted Manny Lawson and in 2005, the Cowboys picked DeMarcus Ware and San Diego chose Shawne Merriman.

All three played defensive end in college and were switched to outside linebacker. Both Ware and Merriman were selected to play in the 2007 Pro Bowl.

Many colleges are recruiting tight ends and running backs to play linebacker. I think this is the reason we have so much speed at this position in the draft (not quite as fast as 2006, but still fast).

Top players like Patrick Willis of Mississippi and Paul Posluszny and Tim Shaw of Penn State were running backs, while Lawrence Timmons of Florida State was a tight end.

It is very important that linebackers are good special teams players, especially on coverage teams.


Outside linebackers

1. Jon Beason, Miami (Fla.) (6-0¼, 237; 4.63)

He worked out at the Combine, but was not 100 percent. He ran 4.72 and 4.79 with a 9-foot-3 long jump and did 19 lifts. He worked out again on April 5 at his high school and weighed 232 pounds and ran 40s in 4.62 and 4.64. He also ran 4.33 in the short shuttle, 6.89 in the long, had a 32½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot long jump and his arm measures 31 7/8 inches. He was a running back, linebacker and strong safety in high school. He also started on the basketball team that went to the state finals. Beason played two games as a freshman in 2003 before getting lost for the season with an injury. He started 10 games in 2005 at weakside linebacker, started nine in 2006 and also competed in the long jump on the track team (indoors). He's a very competitive player, well built, and plays with power. He's very explosive and has great football temperament. He lacks height and has had some injuries. He will be a very good player and a star in the kicking game.


2. Lawrence Timmons, Florida State (6-0 7/8, 234; 4.67)

He worked out at the Combine and ran two 40s in 4.66 and 4.68, 4.32 in the short shuttle and 6.82 in the three-cone drill. He also had a 35-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-3 long jump and did 25 lifts. He ran again on March 15 at Florida State's Pro Day, clocking 4.63 and 4.71 in the 40 and 1.50 in the 10-yard dash. He played linebacker and tight end in high school and was a defensive player of the year in South Carolina. He's a young player (he won't be 21 until May). Timmons played as a true freshman in 2004, was a backup to Ernie Sims in 2005 and became a full-time starter in 2006. He looks better on tape than in person. He works hard on every down and has made some big plays (fumble and INT returns for TDs). Timmons has done a good job against the tight end in covering strong. He lacks great instincts and is inexperienced (he played just one season). He does seem to have athletic ability and can play inside or outside.

3. Paul Posluszny, Penn State (6-1 5/8, 236; 4.71)

Paul Posluszny has the intelligence and versatility necessary to play this position.
He had a complete workout at the Combine where he ran his 40s in 4.70 and 4.71. He also had a 37-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-8 long jump, ran 4.20 in the short shuttle, 6.94 in the cone drill and did 22 lifts. He had 33-inch arms. At Penn State's Pro Day, he ran 4.61 and 4.67 in the 40. He was a running back (gained school-record 1,575 yards and 15 TDs) at the same high school that Tony Dorsett attended. He was also a very good basketball and baseball player. His brother was a baseball player at West Virginia. He started five games as a true freshman in 2003, and totaled 44 starts at Penn State. He played with a knee brace in 2006 to protect an injury he suffered in the bowl game. Posluszny's an outstanding person and a very instinctive player, which is very important for this position. He's smart and has great football IQ. The Nittany Lions switched to the 3-4 defense in 2006 and he moved inside after playing weakside backer for three years. He did not play man coverage at Penn State and did not look good in practice trying to play it at the Senior Bowl, but there's no doubt in my mind that he'll be able to play it at the next level.

4. Stewart Bradley, Nebraska (6-3¾, 254; 4.74)

Bradley had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran 4.72 and 4.76 in the 40, 4.17 in the short shuttle and 7.29 in the cone drill. He also had a 35½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-4 long jump and did 28 lifts. He ran again at Nebraska's Pro Day on March 7, clocking 4.73 and 4.77 at a weight of 258 pounds. His arm measures 32¾ inches. He played just one year of high school football as a junior, playing at quarterback and returning kicks. He's a very good rugby player. Bradley redshirted in 2002 and played as a backup defensive end in 2003. He started 10 games in 2004 as a strongside linebacker, then played in five games in 2005 before going down with injuries. He started 14 games in 2006. Bradley plays with a passion. He can blitz or drop into coverage. He's very competitive, has good quickness and smart. He has a history of injuries, but was cleared at Combine medical. He's a 3-4 backer who most likely will play inside or outside.

5. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma (6-0 7/8, 226; 4.80)

Alexander had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran two 40s in 4.79 and 4.80, the short shuttle in 4.32 and the three-cone drill in 7.06. He also had a 35-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-2 long jump and did 25 strength reps. He played linebacker and tight end in high school and was also an all-district player in basketball. He redshirted in 2002 and was a backup player in 2003. He then started 36 games over the last three years and had good production with over 100 tackles the past two years. He's very active and will compete. He can drop and play in space, but the question is, how well can he play at the next level with his weight and speed? He's most likely a backup and special teams player. Alexander played well at Oklahoma and was a first-team All-Big 12 for two years.

6. Stephen Nicholas, South Florida (6-1 3/8, 226; 4.66)

Nicholas worked out but did not run at the Combine. He had a 33½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-2 long jump, 4.34 short shuttle, 7.29 cone drill and did 29 strength reps. He ran two 40s at South Florida's Pro Day on March 9, clocking 4.64 (wind aided) and 4.69 (against wind) on grass. He played linebacker in high school, making the All-State 3A team. He played three games in 2002 before getting injured and received a medical redshirt. He started 45 games over the next four years and was Conference USA's Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2003. Nicholas has been a four-year starter and has a strong upper body. He will take on blockers and he's a very competitive player, but lacks great size. He needed to play against bigger players. Nicholas can play both strong- and weakside backer positions and should be a very good special teams player.

INSIDE THE SCOUTS

What scouts look for when grading linebackers:

Critical factors

1. Character
2. Ability to learn football
3. Competitive toughness
4. Work habits
5. Athletic ability

Position specifics

1. Reactions
2. Range
3. Pass defense
4. Hands (catching)
5. Strength at point
6. Stays on feet
7. Use of hands
8. Tackling ability
9. Pass rush

7. Zak DeOssie, Brown (6-4 5/8, 250; 4.63)

DeOssie had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran 4.58 and 4.67 in the 40, 4.22 in the short shuttle and 6.89 in the cone drill. He also had a 34½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-2 long jump and did 26 lifts. DeOssie was a quarterback and linebacker in high school and also lettered in basketball. He played in nine games, starting in two as a true freshman in 2003, then started 27 games over the next three years. He has good instincts for the position and has the speed to run with tight ends. He's a physical player, but has not played a lot of football in the Ivy League (the league has no spring practices and plays only 10 games per season and no postseason games). His father, Steve, was a very good long snapper. Zak DeOssie should be able to help his team on special teams and long-snapping while learning to play. He has starting potential in time.

8. Quincy Black, New Mexico (6-1 5/8, 240; 4.46)

Black had a complete workout at the Combine, clocking 4.42 and 4.49 in the 40, 4.34 in the short shuttle and 6.90 in the three-cone drill. He also had a 41½-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-4 long jump and did 24 lifts. He was a linebacker and basketball player in high school in Chicago. Black went on to Harper College (junior college) after high school, where he recorded 16½ sacks in 2003. He transferred to New Mexico in 2004, but did not start. He started over the next two seasons. Black is very athletic. He plays the same hybrid position (safety/linebacker) Brian Urlacher played at this school. He gives very good effort and makes tackles (114), but mostly downfield. He looks better than the end results and has the physical traits. but I'm not sure he can play in a scheme that does not allow him to run to the ball.


Inside linebackers

1. Patrick Willis, Mississippi (6-1 1/8, 242; 4.53)

Willis had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran two 40s in 4.51 and 4.53, the short shuttle in 4.46 and the cone drill in 7.23. He also had a 35-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-11 long jump and did 21 bench presses. Willis worked out again on March 20 at Mississippi's Pro Day and ran 4.57 and 4.38 at a weight of 237 pounds. He was a running back and linebacker in high school, scoring 392 points and 62 TDs. He also had 23 sacks and 11 interceptions. Willis was also an all-state honorable mention in basketball. He played as a true freshman, but did not start a game until 2005. He was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2006. He has very good athletic ability, is an outstanding competitor and a very aggressive run stopper. He has great stamina and does a good job playing off blocks. He showed skills dropping into coverage at his pro day and will play with injuries. Willis will be a good player and will make a lot of big plays for his team. He has Pro Bowl ability.

2. David Harris, Michigan (6-2¼, 243; 4.61)

Harris had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran the 40s in 4.60 and 4.62, the short shuttle in 4.29 and the cone drill in 7.26. He also had a 33-inch vertical jump, an 8-foot-11 long jump and 23 lifts. He played running back and linebacker in high school. Harris redshirted in 2002 and played just two games before suffering a season-ending injury after two games in 2003. He then started 24 games over the next two seasons. He had a very good workout at the Combine, running better than people thought he would, and looked good in drills. He has good strength for the position. He's smart and will compete on every down. He's good, but not a great athlete. His best position most likely is at inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. He uses his hands well and has been well coached.

3. Anthony Waters, Clemson (6-2 5/8, 245; 4.69)

Waters did not work out at the Combine due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament, but did 25 lifts. In a special workout on April 3, Waters ran one 40 in a time of 4.69 seconds at about 90 percent recovered. He also had a 34½-inch vertical jump. He was a running back and linebacker in high school and was the offensive player of the year in South Carolina as a senior. He redshirted in 2002, played but did not start in 2004 and 2005. He did not play in 2006 after tearing his ACL in the first game of the season. Waters had 100-plus tackles in 2005 as a middle linebacker. He's a very competitive player, strong, hard worker and smart. He made the defensive calls for the team. In 2004, Waters was one of the players suspended for an on-field brawl at the end of the season against South Carolina. There are some questions about his instincts for the position. He has a chance to be a solid pro based on his 2005 numbers. He's a year away as a player because of the injury.

DID YOU KNOW?

Benny Blades, father of Pittsburgh's H.B. Blades, was the third player selected by Detroit in the 1988 draft and played 136 games over the next 10 years.

Penn State's Tim Shaw set a Michigan High School record by rushing for 7,167 yards, including more than 2,600 as a senior. He was also the state champion in the 100 meters. Shaw was born in Exeter, England.

Penn State's Paul Posluszny rushed for a school-record 1,575 yards at Hopewell High School in Aliquippa, Pa. This is the same high school where Hall of Famer Tony Dorsett played.

Nebraska's Stewart Bradley played on three straight national champion rugby teams in high school in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Steve DeOssie, farther of Brown's Zak DeOssie, was drafted in the fourth round by the Cowboys in 1984 and played in 175 games over 12 seasons.

Mississippi's Patrick Willis scored 392 points in high school (62 TDs, 1 PAT, 3 two-point conversions, 1 field goal and 2 safeties).

Only three linebackers have been drafted No. 1 overall -- Tommy Nobis, 1966; Tom Cousineau, 1979 and Aundray Bruce, 1988.

4. Justin Durant, Hampton (6-0 7/8, 230; 4.56)

Durant had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran two 40s in 4.52 and 4.58, had a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-1 long jump, 4.09 short shuttle, 6.77 cone drill and did 25 lifts. Durant played defensive end in high school. He played as a true freshman in 2003, then started 34 games over the next three years. He earned Mid-Eastern Atlantic Conference Defensive Player of the Year for three seasons. He had a very good workout at the Combine. He has quickness, athletic ability and speed for the position. He seems to be a very instinctive player and covers in space. He's a hard worker, but needs to better at taking on blockers. He will be a very good special teams player and should develop into a starter.

5. Brandon Siler, Florida (6-1¾, 241, 4.64)

Siler had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran 4.63 and 4.65 in the 40, 7.34 in the cone drill, had a 30½-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-1 long jump. He did not lift at the Combine, but did so at the pro day. He had 23 bench presses and also ran 4.39 in the short and 7.00 in the cone. He was a linebacker, tight end and running back in high school, averaging 7.0 yards per carry and scored 10 TDs as a senior. Siler started six games as a freshman in 2004 and 25 over the next two years. He's a tough competitive player and has very good quickness. He's a good leader and has a good instinctive way as a player. He tends to talk too much and sometimes rub people the wrong way. He has good leadership ability and will help a team, if it can put up with his talking.

6. James 'Buster' Davis, Florida State (5-9 3/8, 239; 4.70)

Davis had a complete workout at the Combine, running two 40s in 4.65 and 4.74. He also had a 31-inch vertical jump, and 8-foot-6 long jump, a 4.37 short shuttle, a 7.28 cone drill and 24 strength reps. He played as a linebacker in high school and recorded almost 400 tackles in three years. He redshirted in 2002, was a backup in 2003 and started 37 games over the next three years. He's a tough competitor who makes plays in whole. He's smart and is very good on goal-line and short-yardage plays. He has outstanding instincts and plays with passion. He's short and needs to control his weight. He's a very good player, but his lack of weight will scare some teams. London Fletcher is only 5-10, but plays well.

Additional linebackers to watch (alphabetical order)

Desmond Bishop, California (MLB) (6-1 7/8, 239; 4.82)

Bishop worked out at the Combine, but did not run the shuttles or jumped. He ran 4.81 and 4.83 in the 40, 4.65 in the short shuttle, and 7.14 in the cone drill. He also had a 32¼-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-4 long jump and did 33 lifts. He plays well against the run, but has problems in space. He gives very good effort, but the question is whether he can play all three downs.

H.B. Blades, Pittsburgh (MLB) (5-10¾, 236; 4.71)

Blades did not work out at the Combine, but did everything at the Panthers Pro Day on March 16. He ran two 40s in 4.69 and 4.72, had a 32-inch vertical, a 9-foot-5 long jump, a 4.36 short shuttle and a 6.98 cone drill. He lifted 22 times at the Combine. He was a four-year starter and all-Florida in high school. He started 49 games, the most ever by a player at his high school. He's productive and is a hard-nosed player, but he has problems in space. Blades will be a very good special teams player.

Earl Everett, Florida (OLB) (6-2½, 238; 4.75)

Everett worked out at the Combine, but had hamstring problems. His results are from Florida's pro day on March 7. He ran 4.71 and 4.78 in the 40, 4.46 in the short shuttle and 7.39 in the cone drill. He also had a 32-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-5 long jump. He did 19 strength reps at the Combine. He was a linebacker and quarterback in high school and was named a Parade All-American at linebacker. He played as a true freshman. He's a good athlete and plays faster than his timed speed, but he lacks great instincts. Everett will be a very good special teams player.

Marvin Mitchell, Tennessee (MLB) (6-3, 249; 4.94)

Mitchell worked out at the Combine, but ran better at Tennessee's Pro Day (4.79 and 4.81) when he weighed 240 pounds. He had a 32-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot long jump, a 4.25 short shuttle, a 7.29 cone drill and 22 lifts. He has the size for the position and is an aggressive player. He started just one year and totaled 15 career starts. He needs better work habits.

Chad Nkang, Elon (OLB) (5-11½, 220; 4.53)

Nkang had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran two 40s in 4.51 and 4.55 seconds (ran 4.41 and 4.42 at Elon's Pro Day wearing metal spikes). He also had a 36½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-10 long jump, a 4.34 short shuttle, a 7.10 cone drill and did 23 lifts. Elon is a very athletic player who also played fullback at Elon in 2003. He started 33 games, had 152 tackles in 2005 and 414 over three years (he had 25 tackles in one game). He's undersized, but the question is, can he be an Adam Archuleta type of player?

Michael Okwo, Stanford (MLB) (5-11 3/8, 232; 4.74)

Okwo had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran 4.70 and 4.77 in the 40, 4.43 in the short shuttle, 7.12 in the cone drill, had a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-1 long jump and did 22 bench presses. He was a linebacker in high school who earned All-America honors. He played as a true freshman in 2003. He's a good athlete with very good instincts, but lacks size. He has some good traits, a good player on a bad team. He might be better at outside linebacker.

Tim Shaw, Penn State (OLB) (6-1½, 236; 4.53)

Shaw had a complete workout at the Combine, clocking 4.51 and 4.55 in the 40. He also had a 36½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-6 long jump, a 4.12 short shuttle, a 7.01 cone drill and did 26 lifts. He was a running back and linebacker in high school. Shaw played running back as a true freshman before moving to linebacker and redshirted in 2003. He started in 2004 at middle linebacker. His best position at the next level might be as a strongside backer. He has a passion for the game and should be a very good special teams player.

Tony Taylor, Georgia (6-0½, 236, 4.92)

Taylor had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran 4.92 twice in the 40, had a 32-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot long jump, a 4.32 short shuttle, a 7.17 cone drill and had 29 strength reps. He was a defensive back and running back in high school and was also a very good basketball player. He played as a true freshman and is considered to be a tough and very instinctive player. He has overcome his lack of speed with his football ability.