Lionbacker NFL Draft Blog

M2K's "Last Minute Final Offering" 3 Rounder with Trades

2008-04-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

ROUND ONE

1 Dolphins OT Jake Long

2 Rams DE Chris Long

3 Falcons DT Glenn Dorsey

4 Raiders RB Darren McFadden

5 Chiefs DE Vernon Gholston

6 NY Jets QB Matt Ryan

******Projected Trade*******
Bengals trade 9 and 77 to Patriots for 7 and 129

7 Bengals(SF) DT Sedrick Ellis

8 Ravens OT Ryan Clady

9 Patriots (CIN) LB Keith Rivers

******Projected Trade*******
Panthers trade 13 and 74 to Saints for 10 and 146

10 Panthers (NO) DE Derrick Harvey

11 Bills CB Leodis McKelvin

12 Broncos OG Branden Albert

13 Saints (CAR) CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie

14 Bears OT Chris Williams

******Projected Trade*******
Texans trade 18 and 79 to Lions for 15 and 144

15 Texans (DET) RB Rashard Mendenhall

16 Cardinals RB Jonathan Stewart

17 Chiefs OT Jeff Otah

18 Lions (HOU) LB Jerod Mayo

19 Eagles WR Devin Thomas

20 Buccaneers CB Michael Jenkins

21 Redskins DE Phillip Merling

22 Cowboys RB Felix Jones

23 Steelers DE Calais Campbell

24 Titans WR Limas Sweed

25 Seahawks DT Kentwan Balmer

******Projected Trade*******
Falcons trade 37, 68 and 103 to Jaguars for 26 and 89

26 Falcons (JAX) QB Brian Brohm

27 Chargers OT Gosder Cherilus

28 Cowboys WR James Hardy

29 49ers LB Quentin Groves

30 Packers CB Aqib Talib

NA Patriots Forfeited

******Projected Trade*******
Ravens trade 38 and 106 to Giants for 31

31 Ravens(NYG) QB Joe Flacco

ROUND TWO

32. Dolphins CB Brandon Flowers

33. Rams WR DeSean Jackson

34. Falcons OT Sam Baker

35. Chiefs CB Antoine Cason

36. Jets LB Dan Connor

37. Jaguars(ATL) DE Lawrence Jackson

38. Giants(BAL) FS Kenny Phillips

39. 49ers LB Curtis Lofton

40. Saints DT Trevor Laws

41. Bills WR Jordy Nelson

42. Broncos DB Reggie Smith

43. Panthers RB Jamaal Charles

45. Bears RB Chris Johnson

46. Lions OT Duane Brown

47. Bengals WR Earl Bennett

48. Vikings WR Early Doucet

49. Falcons CB Tracy Porter

50. Eagles LB Xavier Adibi

51. Cardinals FS Marcellous Johnson

52. Redskins WR Mario Manningham

53. Buccaneers DE Jason Jones

54. Steelers OG Chilo Rachal

55. Titans DT Pat Sims

55. Seahawks TE Dustin Keller

56. Packers TE Fred Davis

57. Dolphins QB Chad Henne

58. Jaguars OT Carl Nicks

59. Colts LB Erin Henderson

60. Packers RB Ray Rice

61. Cowboys CB Justin King

62. Patriots RB Matt Forte’

63. Giants OG Jeremy Zuttah

ROUND THREE

64. Dolphins LB Phillip Wheeler

65. Rams FS DaJuan Morgan

66. Chiefs QB Andre Woodson

67. Panthers OT Anthony Collins

68. Jaguars(ATL) WR Andre Caldwell

69. Patriots CB Antwaun Moulden

70. Bears DT Dre Moore

71. Jaguars LB Shawn Crable

72. Bills TE Martellus Bennett

73. Chiefs OG Oniel Cousins

74. Saints (CAR) LB Geno Hayes

75. 49ers OC Mike Pollack

76. Lions DE Jeremy Thompson

77. Patriots (CIN) OT Geoff Schwartz

78. Saints SS Josh Barrett

79. Lions (HOU) CB Tyvon Branch

80. Eagles OT John Greco

81. Cardinals LB Cliff Avril

82. Chiefs WR Will Franklin

83. Buccaneers WR Malcolm Kelly

84. Redskins CB Charles Godfrey

85. Titans LB Beau Bell

86. Seahawks FS Thomas DeCoud

87. Lions RB Kevin Smith

88. Steelers CB Patrick Lee

89. Falcons(JAX) WR Eddie Royal

90. Bears SS Tom Zbikowski

91. Packers OT Mike McGlynn

92. Cowboys OG Roy Schuenninng

93. Colts DT Red Bryant

94. Patriots CB Terrell Thomas

95. Giants LB Marcus Howard

96. Redskins FS Quentin Demps

97. Bengals DE Chris Ellis

98. Falcons TE Brad Cottam

99. Ravens CB Orlando Scandrick

M2K's "One Month to Draft" 2 Round Mock Draft

2008-03-28T13:12:00.000-07:00

2008 NFL Draft Mock
1 Dolphins DE Vernon Gholston Ohio State
Despite the fact that Miami desperately needs a quarterback, there is none available with the top overall pick. There are really only three players that should be strongly considered here, Gholston and the Longs. With their hybrid 3-4 system, I see Gholston getting the nod as the OLB opposite Jason Taylor, with the ability to drop into a DE role with a four man front. Though Chris Long has shown through workouts that he can perform well as an OLB in the 3-4, Gholston has the better overall athleticism.
Options: OT Jake Long, DE Chris Long

2 Rams DE Chris Long Virginia
The Rams won’t exactly consider Chris Long a consolation prize here. While Gholston may have put up astounding Combine and workout numbers, Long was a prolific pass rusher playing defensive end in the Cavaliers’ 3-4 defense. He has the quickness and frame to make the move to the same position in a 4-3, and the Rams really need a solid pass rusher.
Options: OT Jake Long, DT Sedrick Ellis, DT Glenn Dorsey

3 Falcons OT Jake Long Michigan
Like the Dolphins, the Falcons really need a QB. However, Matt Ryan doesn’t carry value here, and there will be good QB’s available in rounds two and three. The Falcons really need to better protect whoever is under center, and need someone to open holes for high-priced free agent running back Michael Turner. DT is a possibility, but Jake Long is a rare specimen and fills a huge need for the “Dirty Birds”.
Options: QB Matt Ryan, DT Sedrick Ellis, CB Leodis McKelvin

4 Raiders RB Darren McFadden Arkansas
Al Davis doesn’t follow any true rules when drafting players, other than one: go with the speed. McFadden can be this years version of Adrian Peterson. Though Justin Fargas was re-signed and did fairly well, everyone knows he’s not in the same league (technically he is) as McFadden. The Raiders could go with Ellis or Dorsey to replace Warren Sapp, but that would make too much sense for Davis.
Options: DT Glenn Dorsey, OT Ryan Clady

5 Chiefs DT Sedrick Ellis USC
Should the Chiefs gamble on Glenn Dorsey, or do they reach for a prospect? Their offensive line is in shambles, so moving down to get some value and taking Ryan Clady with a later pick makes sense. But all the trade bait players are off the board other than Ellis, and he does fill a need. Though just a small reach here, Sedrick could ultimately be a better NFL player than Dorsey.
Options: DT Glenn Dorsey, CB Leodis McKelvin, OT Ryan Clady

6 NY Jets CB Leodis McKelvin Troy
The Jets would be crying at this spot if they lost out on all the players taken before in this mock. McFadden, Gholston or Chris Long would be highly desirable. However the Jets also need to upgrade their secondary as well. McKelvin is a reach here, but he could start from day one on the Jets defense opposite Darrelle Revis. Andre Woolfolk was signed, but is not starting material in the NFL.
Options: DT Glenn Dorsey, CB Dominique Cromartie, LB Keith Rivers

7 Patroits (SF) CB Dominique Cromartie Tennessee State
It wouldn’t surprise me to see the Patriots find a way to move down and collect a few picks, but they may have very few takers. Rogers-Cromartie is perhaps the best pure talent at his position, but his small school roots could scare some. It won’t scare the Pats, who know talent when they see it, and typically draft it.
Options: CB Michael Jenkins, LB Keith Rivers, RB Reshard Mendenhall

8 Ravens QB Matt Ryan Boston College
The Ravens really need a quarterback, and though he may not be worth a top ten pick, Ryan is the best available by a long shot. The Ravens would be wise to try and trade down, as the next few teams have no needs at the position. However, should they be stuck with the pick, getting a new QB has to be the call.
Options: CB Michael Jenkins, OT Ryan Clady, DT Glenn Dorsey

9 Bengals DT Glenn Dorsey LSU
The Bengals landed free agent Darryl Blackstock, but that doesn’t mean they still don’t have linebacker needs. However, they still have to shore up their front four, and the will take what could end up being the best player in this draft. Recent medical issues aside, Dorsey is a disruptive force to contend with.
Options: LB Keith Rivers, DE Derrick Harvey, DE Phillip Merling

10 Saints CB Michael Jenkins South Florida
What does it say about college cornerbacks when the top three off the draft board this year are from “second tier” colleges? Jenkins is a big corner who has excellent speed and quickness. His zone skills need some work, as does his tackling. There are some character concerns as well, but that won’t prevent the Saints from taking him here.
Options: LB Keith Rivers, OT Ryan Clady

11 Bills LB Keith Rivers USC
The Bills could use a big wide out with possession skills or a cover corner. Since no receiver is worth this pick and the best corners are off the board, the Bills take the best defensive player available in Rivers. He can play any linebacking spot, and will become a starter before the ink dries on his contract.
Options: OT Ryan Clady, WR Devin Smith, DE Derrick Harvey

12 Broncos OT Ryan Clady Boise State
The Broncos would be thrilled if Clady fell to them here. Denver needs a replacement for Matt Lepsis, and Clady has the talent to start immediately. The Broncos need some help at safety, and they always seem to need defensive line help, but the offensive line is what needs to be addressed here.
Options: DE Derrick Harvey, DE Phillip Merling, WR Devin Smith

13 Panthers DE Phillip Merling Clemson
Carolina has stated that they would be willing to use their first round pick on a running back, and I for one don’t think they are kidding. If Mendenhall falls here, the Panthers may take him. But, I think the Panthers realize they need to get Julius Peppers some help, and will take Merling here to do just that.
Options: DE Derrick Harvey, RB Reshard Mendenhall, OT Chris Williams

14 Bears OT Chris Williams Vanderbilt
The Bears have to address some issues on offense; quarterback, running back and the offensive line have needs. Is Rex Grossman really their man behind center? Is Cedric Benson officially a bust? Who will replace Fred Miller? That last question is the one that will be answered with this pick.
Options: RB Reshard Mendenhall, WR Devin Smith, QB Brian Brohm

15 Lions DE Derrick Harvey Florida
The Lions have some desperate needs on their defense. A pass rusher, a middle linebacker and overall depth at just about every spot. Although he may not have put up great workout numbers, Harvey has proven his ability to get to the quarterback against top level college competition. The Lions need to get a replacement for the released bust known as Kalimba Edwards.
Options: RB Reshard Mendenhall, OT Jeff Otah

16 Cardinals RB Reshard Mendenhall Illinois
Edgerrin James may have seen his last game in a Cards uniform. Mendenhall represents a great value here, as many see him as a top ten player. He put up impressive numbers at his workouts, and game tapes show that he can translate that onto the football field.
Options: DE Quentin Groves, CB Aqib Talib

17 Vikings WR Devin Smith Michigan State
The Vikings would have loved an opportunity to land one of the top defensive ends, but miss out. They have a desperate need at wide receiver as well, and Smith has all the tools to be the answer to their desires.
Options: QB Brian Brohm, WR Devin Smith, WR DeSean Jackson

18 Texans CB Aqib Talib Kansas
Talib isn’t a value here by any stretch, but he fills a tremendous need. Houston can get a quality runner in round three, but likely not a corner of Talib’s caliber. Talib can also serve as a return specialist and has shown himself to be a smart and versatile player. He could start immediately.
Options: OT Jeff Otah, DE Quentin Groves

19 Eagles WR DeSean Jackson California
Andy Reid loves to take linemen on the first day, but he needs to address his skill positions now. Jackson is a flyer who can make great catches and has NFL skills now. It is likely that Jackson won’t start immediately, but that could change by mid-season.
Options: OT Jeff Otah, FS Kenny Phillips

20 Buccaneers QB Brian Brohm Louisville
The Bucs need to take care of their QB position before Gruden loses this team. Chris Simms is unlikely to start for them again, and Brian Griese is a stop gap. They need to get a future signal caller and leader out of this draft, and Brohm may turn out better than more highly touted Matt Ryan as an NFL starter.
Options: WR James Hardy, RB Jonathan Stewart

21 Redskins FS Kenny Phillips Miami, FL
Washington could use some help along their offensive and defensive fronts, but they also need to get someone to replace Sean Taylor. Phillips has good range and ball skills, and is the best player to try and fill the shoes of a player lost well before his time.
Options: WR James Hardy, DE Quentin Groves

22 Cowboys WR James Hardy Indiana
Jerry Jones knows that Terry Glenn should not be a starter now, and he needs someone to start opposite TO. Hardy is a big target with surprising speed and would take some heat off Owens in the Cowboys downfield offense.
Options: RB Felix Jones, OG Branden Albert

23 Steelers OT Jeff Otah Pittsburgh
The Steelers have been able to retain Max Starks, and even picked up an interior lineman to boot. With their offensive line set, the Steelers can look to other areas for fixing. Or will they? Starks will still be a free agent next year, and it is likely that Pittsburgh will look at Otah as an eventual replacement.
Options: CB Antoine Cason, OG Branden Albert

24 Titans WR Malcolm Kelly Oklahoma
The Titans need to land a wide receiver to help out their franchise quarterback. Kelly has slipped due to some questionable workouts, but scouts are wowed by his college performances and will judge him on that more than anything else.
Options: LB Jerod Mayo, OG Branden Albert

25 Seahawks OG Branden Albert Virginia
The Seahawks have had a solid free agency period. They’ve locked up Marcus Trufant long-term, and have strong depth at running back now, allowing themselves to shed Shaun Alexander soon. What is left? Finding a replacement for the hole left by Steve Hutchinson two seasons ago.
Options: DE Quentin Groves, DT Pat Sims

26 Jaguars DE Quentin Groves Auburn
The Jaguars are said to be interested in moving up to possibly land Phillip Merling or Derrick Harvey. If they fail in their attempt, they could go with Groves, who is faster than those two but lacks their strength. Since they need linebackers as well, it wouldn’t surprise to see Groves line up their for Del Rio either.
Options: DT Pat Sims, OT Sam Baker

27 Chargers OT Gosder Cherilus Boston College
San Diego recently released Shane Olivea, and they need to replace him. Sam Baker is a thought, but Cherilus seems to be a better overall athlete and was impressive at the Senior Bowl, as well as at his workouts. Minor character issues aside, Cherilus is the safer pick.
Options: WR Limas Sweed, CB Antoine Cason

28 Cowboys RB Felix Jones Arkansas
The Cowboys let Julius Jones walk, so they replace him with another Jones, who happens to be from the same school that owner Jerry Jones is an alumni of. Keeping up with the Joneses? Felix is an underappreciated talent who would have been a starter anywhere else in the country except Arkansas.
Options: CB Antoine Cason, OT Sam Baker

29 49ers (IND) LB Jerod Mayo Tennessee
The ‘niners got Mike Martz to design their offense, and then went out and signed Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson has their targets for the passing game. So, they can elect to use this pick on the other side of the ball, and use it to take someone to line up next to defensive ROY Patrick Willis, now that Derek Smith is done.
Options: OT Sam Baker, WR Limas Sweed

30 Packers RB Jonathan Stewart
Is anybody really buying the fact that the Packers think Ryan Grant, DeShawn Wynn or Brandon Jackson are the answer for this team out of the backfield? Stewart is a strong all-purpose back that the team will now have to rely upon with Brett Favre retiring.
Options: OT Sam Baker, CB Antoine Cason

31 Patriots Forfeited

32 Giants LB Dan Connor Penn State
The Super Bowl champs have some holes to fill on their roster after losing two starters at linebacker and another at free safety. The Giants have a decision to make and elect to go with a player who is versatile enough to play inside or outside for them.
Options: DB Reggie Smith, OT Sam Baker

Round 2
33. Dolphins QB Chad Henne Michigan
Parcells needs to get the future offensive leader for this team out of this pick.

34. Rams OT Sam Baker USC
Orlando Pace can’t play forever, last season proved that fact. Time for his replacement to be taken.

35. Falcons CB Antoine Cason Arizona
With DeAngelo Hall shipped to RaiderNation, the Falcons have to get a top notch cover man here.

36. Chiefs CB Tracy Porter Indiana
The Chiefs have no starting quality corner on their roster as of now. This pick helps take care of that.

37. Jets DE Calais Campbell Miami, Fla
Campbell falls after sub-par workouts, but he’s perfect as a DE in the 3-4 defense and Mangini knows it.

38. Falcons QB Joe Flacco Delaware
Finally, the Falcons make their pick to replace Mike Vick behind center, and Flacco could be very good.

39. Ravens OT Carl Nicks Nebraska
The Ravens know they have to replace Odgen, and Nicks is too good a talent to pass on here.

40. 49ers WR Earl Doucet LSU
While they may have signed some veterans, the 49ers still lack quality at the receiver spot.

41. Saints DT Pat Sims Auburn
He was more productive than Glenn Dorsey the second half of the season. Enough said.

42. Bills DB Reggie Smith Oklahoma
Some teams see him as a safety, others as a corner in the NFL. Buffalo wants him as a corner.

43. Broncos WR Earl Bennett Vanderbilt
A familiar face for Jay Cutler to throw to, and he fills a big need for Denver as well.

44. Panthers RB Jamaal Charles Texas
With DeShaun Foster gone, the Panthers want a partner for DeAngelo Williams.

45. Bears QB Andre Woodson Kentucky
Honestly, how much longer before the Bears figure this one out?

46. Lions ILB Curtis Lofton Oklahoma
Though he won’t start the season in the middle, he’ll end up there by season’s end.

47. Bengals OLB Erin Henderson Maryland
The Bengals are ALWAYS looking for linebacking help. When healthy, he’s a beast.

48. Vikings DE Lawrence Jackson USC
The Vikings still need to get someone who can effectively rush the passer.

49. Falcons OT Anthony Collins Kansas
New RB, new QB, now the Falcons need someone to protect them.

50. Eagles DE Chris Ellis Virginia
Jevon Kearse was released so the team needs quality and depth at the ends.

51. Cardinals CB Terrell Thomas USC
With Antrel Rolle moved to safety, the Cards need to find another starter at the corner.

52. Redskins DT Trevor Laws Notre Dame
The Redskins need someone who can get to the quarterback. Laws is quick and strong inside.

53. Buccaneers WR Mario Manningham Michigan
Just how much longer can the Bucs rely on Joey Galloway as a starter?

54. Steelers CB Justin King Penn State
The Steelers need to get some secondary help and do that with the speedy Justin King here.

55. Titans RB Chris Johnson East Carolina
Johnson will pair with Lendale White to form another “Thunder and Lightning” duo.

56. Seahawks TE Fred Davis USC
The Seahawks have to get a good tight end for their offensive, and Davis is it.

57. Packers DT Kentwan Balmer UNC
After trading away Corey Williams, the Packers will need someone to fill his spot.

58. Dolphins WR Andre Caldwell Florida
He could pair with Ted Ginn to form one of the fastest starting set of wideouts ever.

59. Jaguars OT Duane Brown Virginia Tech
Jacksonville needs to add some depth and quality to their starting offensive line.

60. Colts OLB Xavier Adibi Virginia Tech
Indianapolis likes speed on defense, and Adibi could start immediately on the strong side.

61. Packers TE Martin Rucker Missouri
With Bubba Franks gone, the Packers need to get a reliable big target for Aaron Rogers.

62. Cowboys OG Chilo Rachal USC
They’ve never really adequately replaced All-World guard Larry Allen.

63. Patriots ILB Philip Wheeler Georgia Tech
Youth infusion at inside linebacker is the Pats primary need and area of focus here.

64. Giants FS DaJuan Morgan North Carolina State
Gibril Wilson left for Oakland, so the G-men need to get themselves a starter here.

All-Michigan Colleges 2008 NFL Draft Team

2008-03-19T06:30:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be interesting to put together a team made up of only Michigan college 2008 NFL draft prospects. As you can probably guess our team is dominated by Michigan (7 starters, 3 reserves) and Michigan State (6 starters, 4 reserves). Also represented are Western Michigan (2 starters, 1 reserve), Eastern Michigan (1 starter, 1 reserve), Central Michigan (1 starter), Ferris State (1 starter), and Wayne State (1 starter). Lacking are solid prospects at the defensive tackle position and at one of the cornerback spots, both of which I didn't include any prospects.

The top five state of Michigan college NFL draft prospects would be:

1) OT - Jake Long, Michigan
2) WR - Devin Thomas, Michigan State
3) WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
4) QB - Chad Henne, Michigan
5) DE - Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan

Jake Long looks to be a top five player taken and is the clear cut top prospect in the state of Michigan. The wide receiver spot is lead by the only two Juniors, Devin Thomas and Mario Manningham, and their rankings are interchangeable. Quarterback Chad Henne and little known Jason Jones out of Eastern are both likely first day picks.

Below is the All-Michigan Colleges 2008 NFL draft team. Each players name links to his official college bio and I have included my projected round for each player I expect to be drafted after his height and weight statistics.

OFFENSE:

QB – Chad Henne, Michigan (6’2”, 224) RD 2
RB – Mike Hart, Michigan (5’9”, 196) RD 4
FB – Jehuu Caulcrick, Michigan State (6’0”, 260) RD 4
WR – Devin Thomas, JR. Michigan State (6’2”, 214) RD 2
WR – Mario Manningham, JR. Michigan (6’0”, 186) RD 2
TE – Kellen Davis, Michigan State (6’6”, 254) RD 5
OT – Jake Long, Michigan (6’7”, 313) RD 1
G – James Blair, Western Michigan (6’4”, 334) RD 7
C – Robbie Krutilla, Western Michigan (6’3”, 314) RD 6
G – Adam Kraus, Michigan (6’6”, 296) RD 3
OT – Mike Gyetvai, Michigan State (6’7”, 307) UFA

DEFENSE:

DE – Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan (6’5”, 247) RD 3
DE – Kurt Hout, Ferris State (6’2”, 276) RD 7
OLB – Shawn Crable, Michigan (6’5”, 241) RD 4
MLB – Red Keith, Central Michigan (5’11”, 242) RD 7
OLB – SirDarean Adams, Michigan State (6’0”, 230) RD 6
S – Jamar Adams, Michigan (6’2”, 210) RD 4
S – Nehemiah Warrick, Michigan State (6’1”, 208) UFA
CB – Nile Legania, Wayne State (5’10”, 185) RD 6

RESERVES:

RB – Mark Bonds, Western Michigan (5’10”, 219) UFA
WR – Adrian Arrington, Michigan (6’3”, 195) RD 5
G – Khalid Walton, Eastern Michigan (6’3”, 310) UFA
C – John Masters, Michigan State (6’4”, 288) RD 7
DE – Jonal Saint-Dic, Michigan State (6’1”, 255) UFA
DE – Ervin Baldwin, Michigan State (6’2”, 270) UFA
OLB – Chris Graham, Michigan (5’11”, 225) RD 7
ILB – Kaleb Thornhill, Michigan State (6’1”, 240) UFA
S – Brandent Englemon, Michigan (5’11”, 200) UFA

NFL Scouting Combine Invitees

2008-02-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

The NFL Scouting Combine will be held February 20 - 26, 2008 in Indianapolis at the RCA Dome. Participants are determined annually by a Selection Committee. The Directors of both National and BLESTO scouting services, which combined represent twenty-six NFL teams, are joined by members of various NFL player personnel departments to form the committee.

Below is a list of all the invites listed alphabetically by name, school, and position (Michigan college players are in bold):

Abdullah, Husain - Washington St FS
Adams, Jamar - Michigan SS
Adibi, Xavier - Virginia Tech OLB
Ainge, Erik - Tennessee QB
Albert, Branden - Virginia OG
Allen, Steve - West Texas A&M ILB
Alridge, Anthony - Houston RB
Amendola, Daniel - Texas Tech WR
Arrington, Adrian - Michigan WR
Avery, Donnie - Houston WR
Avril, Clifford - Purdue DE
Baker, Samuel - Southern Cal OT
Balmer, Kentwan - North Carolina DT
Barber, Dominique - Minnesota FS
Barnidge, Gary - Louisville TE
Barrett, Joshua - Arizona St SS
Barton, Kirk - Ohio St OT
Bell, Demetrius - Northwestern St OT
Bell, James - UNLB ILB
Benedict, Heath - Newberry OT
Bennett, Earl - Vanderbilt WR
Bennett, Martellus - Texas A&M TE
Bernard, Yvenson - Oregon St RB
Bess, Davone - Hawaii WR
Biermann, Kroy - Montana DE
Bishop, Adam - Nevada TE
Blair, James - Western Michigan OT
Blake, Tommy - Texas Christian DE
Blythe, Todd - Iowa St WR
Bonner, Brian - Texas Christian SS
Booker, Barry - Virginia Tech DT
Booty, John David - Southern Cal QB
Bowen, Alvin - Iowa St OLB
Bowman, Adarius - Oklahoma St WR
Bowman, Zackary - Nebraska CB
Boyd, Cory - South Carolina RB
Bradford, Mark - Stanford RB
Branch, Tyvon - Connecticut CB
Breazell, Brandon - UCLA WR
Brennan, Colt - Hawaii QB
Brink, David - Washington St QB
Brohm, Brian - Louisville QB
Brooks, Durant - Georgia Tech PK
Brown, Duane - Virginia Tech OT
Brown, Thomas - Georgia RB
Brown, Titus - Mississippi St DE
Brown, Travis - New Mexico WR
Bryant, Dorien - Purdue WR
Bryant, Joseph - Texas A&M DT
Bugg, Timothy - Indiana LS
Burton, Keenan - Kentucky WR
Butler, Ezra - Nevada-Reno OLB
Caldwell, Andre - Florida WR
Campbell, Calais - Miami, FL DE
Campbell, Caleb - Army SS
Carlson, John - Notre Dame TE
Carmody Iv, Arthur - Louisville PK
Cason, Antoine - Arizona CB
Castille, Simeon - Alabama CB
Caulcrick, Jehuu - Michigan St RB
Charles, Jamaal - Texas RB
Cherilus, Gosder - Boston Col OT
Choice, Tashard - Georgia Tech RB
Clady, Ryan - Boise State OT
Clark, Corey - Texas A&M OT
Clark, Devin - New Mexico OT
Clermond, Jocelin - Pittsburgh DE
Collins, Anthony - Kansas OT
Connor, Dan - Penn St ILB
Cottam, Brad - Tennessee TE
Cousins, Oniel - UTEP OT
Crable, Shawn - Michigan DE
Craig, Angelo - Cincinnati DE
Crummey, Andrew - Maryland OG
Davis, Bruce - UCLA DE
Davis, Frederick - Southern Cal TE
Davis, Kellen - Michigan St TE
Dawson, Calvin - Louisiana-Monroe RB
Decoud, Thomas - Cal-Berkeley FS
Demps, Quintin - UTEP FS
Dingle, Johnny - West Virginia DE
Dixon, Dennis - Oregon QB
Dixon, Marcus - Hampton DE
Dizon, Jordon - Colorado OLB
Dorsey, Glenn - Louisiana St DT
Dotson, Lionel - Arizona DT
Doucet Iii, Early - Louisiana St WR
Douglas Iv, Harry - Louisville WR
Dragosavich, Mike - North Dakota St PK
Dunbar, Franklin - Middle Tennessee OT
Dunbar, Jo-Lonn - Boston Col ILB
Dunlap, King - Auburn OT
Ellis, Christopher - Virginia Tech DE
Ellis, Sedrick - Southern Cal NT
Fagg, De’cody - Florida St WR
Felton, Jerome - Furman FB
Felton, Robert - Arkansas OG
Fine, Derek - Kansas TE
Finley, Jermichael - Texas TE
Finley, Joe Jon - Oklahoma TE
Flacco, Joseph - Delaware QB
Flowers, Brandon - Virginia Tech CB
Fluellen, Andre - Florida St DT
Flynn, Matthew - Louisiana St QB
Fontenot, Wilrey - Arizona CB
Forsett, Justin - Cal-Berkeley RB
Forte, Matthew - Tulane RB
Franklin, William - Missouri WR
Garcon, Pierre - Mt Union WR
Gatewood, Curtis - Vanderbilt DE
Geathers, Jeremy - UNLV DE
Gholston, Vernon - Ohio State DE
Giacomini, Breno - Louisville OT
Gibson, Michael - Cal-Berkeley OT
Gilberry, Wallace - Alabama DE
Godfrey, Charles - Iowa CB
Goff, Jonathan - Vanderbilt ILB
Gooden, Tavares - Miami-FL ILB
Grant, Larry - Ohio St OLB
Grant, Michael - Arkansas FS
Greco, John - Toledo OT
Green-Ellis, - Benjarvus Mississippi RB
Grice-Mullen, Ryan - Hawaii WR
Griffin, Marcus - Texas FS
Groves, Quentin - Auburn DE
Guion, Letroy - Florida State DT
Guyton, Gary - Georgia Tech OLB
Hale, David - Weber St OT
Hall, Martinez - Alabama WR
Hall, Vincent - Virginia Tech ILB
Hardy, James - Indiana WR
Harper, Justin - Virginia Tech WR
Harrington, Christopher - Texas A&M DE
Harrison, Marcus - Arkansas DT
Hart, Leon - Michigan RB
Harvey, Derrick - Florida DE
Hawkins, Lavelle - Cal-Berkeley WR
Hayden, Nicholas - Wisconsin DT
Hayes, Geno - Florida State OLB
Haynos, Joseph - Maryland TE
Hefney, Jonathan - Tennessee FS
Henderson, Erin - Maryland OLB
Henderson, Michael - Georgia WR
Henne, Chad - Michigan QB
Henry, Marcus - Kansas WR
Hester, Jacob - Louisiana St FB
Highsmith, Arlington - Louisiana St OLB
Hilliard, Lex - Montana RB
Hillis, Peyton - Arkansas HB
Hills, Tony - Texas OT
Holmes, Louis - Arizona DE
Horton, Christopher - UCLA SS
Howard, Marcus - Georgia DE
Hubbard, Paul - Wisconsin WR
Humpal, Mike - Iowa OLB
Ikegwuonu, Jack - Wisconsin CB
Iwebema, Kenny - Iowa DE
Jackson, Chevis - Louisiana St CB
Jackson, Desean - California WR
Jackson, Dexter - Appalachian St WR
Jackson, Lawrence - Southern Cal DE
James, Robert - Arizona St OLB
Jenkins, Darnell - Miami-Fl WR
Jenkins, Mike - South Florida CB
Johnson, Chris - East Carolina RB
Johnson, Curtis Clark - Atlanta DE
Johnson, Jaymar - Jackson St WR
Johnson, Joshua - San Diego QB
Johnson, Marcellous - Arkansas St SS
Johnson, Steve - Kentucky WR
Jones, Felix - Arkansas RB
Jones, Jason - Eastern Michigan DT
Justice, Steven - Wake Forest C
Kapanui, Kolomona - West Texas A&M TE
Keglar, Stanford - Purdue OLB
Kehl, Bryan - Brigham Young OLB
Keith, Brandon - Northern Iowa OT
Keller, Dustin - Purdue TE
Keller, Sam - Nebraska QB
Kelly, Malcolm - Oklahoma WR
Keyes Ii, Dennis - UCLA FS
King, Justin - Penn State CB
Langford, Kendall - Hampton DE
Larsen, Spencer - Arizona ILB
Larson, Andrew - Cal-Berkeley PK
Laws, Trevor - Notre Dame DE
Lee, Patrick - Auburn CB
Leman, Jeremy - Illinois ILB
Lichtensteiger, Kory - Bowling Green C
Little, Rafael - Kentucky RB
Lofton, Curtis - Oklahoma ILB
Long, Christopher - Virginia DE
Long, Jake - Michigan OT
Longest, Richard - St Xavier PK
Lowery, Dwight - San Jose St CB
Lumpkin, Kregg - Georgia RB
Manningham, Mario - Michigan WR
Mapp, Durell - North Carolina OLB
Mattison, Bryan - Iowa DE
Mayo, Jerod - Tennessee ILB
Mcbride, Shaheer - Delaware St WR
Mcclain, Jameel - Syracuse ILB
Mcclinton, James - Kansas DT
Mcduffie, Christopher - Clemson OG
Mcfadden, Darren - Arkansas RB
Mcglynn, Michael - Pittsburgh OT
Mckelvin, Leodi s - Troy CB
Mckinney, Justin - Kansas St CB
Mcrae, Kalvin - Ohio RB
Mehlhaff, Taylor - Wisconsin PK
Mendenhall, Rashard - Illinois RB
Merling, Phillip - Clemson DE
Moffitt, Ben - South Florida ILB
Molden, Antwaun - Eastern Kentucky CB
Monk, Marcus - Arkansas WR
Moore, Evan - Stanford WR
Moore, Kenneth - Wake Forest WR
Moore, Marchondray - Maryland DT
Morelli, Anthony - Penn St QB
Morgan, Dajuan - North Carolina State FS
Morgan, Josh - Virginia Polytech Inst, WR
Morris, Bernard - Marshall QB
Murphy, Shawn - Utah St OG
Nelson, Jordy - Kansas St WR
Nicks, Carl - Nebraska OT
O’connell, Kevin - San Diego St QB
Octavien, Steve - Nebraska OLB
Okam, Frank - Texas DT
Oliver, Adamm - Georgia Tech DE
Omon, Archibong - Northwest Missouri St RB
Ortiz, Chase - Texas Christian DE
Ostrander, Thomas - Stanford QB
Otah, Jeffrey - Pittsburgh OT
Parker, Dorian - Virginia Tech FS
Parmele, Jalen - Toledo RB
Patrick, Allen - Oklahoma RB
Paysinger, Brian - Oregon WR
Phillips, Kenny - Miami, FL FS
Pittman, Billy - Texas WR
Pittman, Kirston - Louisiana St DE
Pollak, Mike - Arizona St C
Polumbus, Tyler - Colorado OT
Porter, Tracy - Indiana CB
Powell Jr, Carlton - Virginia Tech DT
Pressley, De Mario - North Carolina St DT
Purify, Maurice - Nebraska WR
Rachal, Chilo - Southern California OG
Radovich, Andrew - Southern Cal OT
Reyer, Tim - Kansas St PT
Reynaud, Darius - West Virginia WR
Rice, Ray - Rutgers RB
Richard, Jameson - Buffalo C
Richardson, Barry - Clemson OT
Richardson, Matterral - Arkansas CB
Rinehart, Chad - Northern Iowa OT
Rivers, Jason - Hawaii WR
Rivers, Keith - Southern Cal OLB
Roach, David - Texas Christian FS
Robertson, Darrell - Georgia Tech DE
Robinson, Kevin - Utah St WR
Robinson, William - San Diego St OT
Rodgers-Cromartie, Dominique - Tennessee State CB
Royal, William - Virginia Tech WR
Rubin, Ahtyba - Iowa St NT
Rucker, Martin - Missouri TE
Ryan, Matthew - Boston Col QB
Sam, Lorne - UTEP WR
Santi, Michael - Virginia TE
Savage, Dantrell - Oklahoma St RB
Scandrick, Orlando - Boise State CB
Schmitt, Owen - West Virginia FB
Schmitt, Tyler - San Diego St LS
Schuening, Roy - Oregon St OG
Schwartz, Geoffrey - Oregon OT
Serna, Alexis - Oregon St PK
Sharpe, Glenn - Miami- FL CB
Shields, Arman - Richmond WR
Silva, James - Boston Col FS
Simpson, Chad - Morgan St RB
Simpson, Jerome - Coastal Carolina WR
Sims, Patrick - Auburn DT
Slaton, Steve - West Virginia RB
Smith, Bryan - McNeese St DE
Smith, Dorian - Oregon St DE
Smith, Kevin - Central Florida RB
Smith, Marcus - New Mexico WR
Smith, Paul - Tulsa QB
Smith, Reggie - Oklahoma CB
Smith, Taj - Syracuse WR
Sosa, Pedro - Rutgers OT
Spanos, Matt - Southern Cal C
Steltz, Craig - Louisiana St SS
Stevens, Craig - Cal-Berkeley TE
Stewart, Carl - Auburn FB
Stewart, Jonathan - Oregon RB
Strong, Darrell - Pittsburgh TE
Sullivan, John - Notre Dame C
Sumrall, Brandon - Southern Mississippi CB
Sweed, Limas - Texas WR
Tafralis, Adam - San Jose St QB
Talib, Aqib - Kansas CB
Tamme, Jacob - Kentucky TE
Terrell, Darnell - Missouri CB
Thomas, Devin - Michigan State WR
Thomas, Donald - Connecticut OG
Thomas, Marcus - UTEP RB
Thomas, Terrell - Southern Cal CB
Thompson, Jeremy - Wake Forest DE
Tolson Iv, Owen - Army PT
Torain, Ryan - Arizona St RB
Tribble, Dejuan - Boston Col CB
Tryon, Justin - Arizona St CB
Urrutia, Mario - Louisville WR
Vobora, David - Idaho OLB
Walker, Marcus - Oklahoma CB
Wallace, Cody - Texas A&M C
Warrick, Nehemiah - Michigan St FS
Washington, Chauncey - Southern Cal RB
Watkins, Nick - Clemson OLB
West, Joe - UTEP WR
Wheatley, Terrence - Colorado CB
Wheeler, Philip - Georgia Tech ILB
Wilhite, Jonathan - Auburn CB
Williams, Christopher - Vanderbilt OT
Williams, Jack - Kent St CB
Williams, Thomas - Southern Cal ILB
Williams, Trae - South Florida CB
Wolfe, Dj - Oklahoma SS
Woodson Jr, Andre - Kentucky QB
Woodyard Jr, Wesley - Kentucky OLB
Wright, Kyle - Miami-FL QB
Young, Eric - Tennessee OT
Zbikowski, Thomas - Notre Dame FS
Zenon, Jonathan - Louisiana St CB
Zuttah, Jeremy - Rutgers OT

Invitees will be evaluated in the following:

- 40 yard dash
- Bench press (225lb repetitions)
- Vertical jump
- Broad jump
- 20 yard shuttle
- 3 cone drill
- 60-yard shuttle
- Position-specific drills
- Interviews
- Physical measurements
- Injury evaluation
- Drug screen
- The Cybex test
- The Wonderlic Test

M2K's Post-Declaration Mock

2008-01-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

Here you are Draftniks. My second mock of the early season. Please leave comments, and do try to make them nice.

1 Dolphins DT Glenn Dorsey LSU
The Dolphins took John Beck, so QB shouldn’t be a need here despite his questionable showings as a starter. Jake Long could be considered, as he would be an upgrade at left tackle. No other players would really be considered here or are of value. I would suspect Miami would strongly consider a trade down, since they have tremendous needs at many spots. However, if they do pick here, having a disruptive force like Dorsey is something they really can’t pass on.

2 Rams DE Chris Long Virginia
Jake Long will get strong consideration, but in the end the Rams won’t be able to pass on a talent like the “Son of Howie”. Though he played in a 3-4 scheme in college, Long showed remarkable ability to get to the quarterback despite being constantly double teamed. He will make a clean transition to a 4-3 DE in the pros, and be a force to reckon with.

3 Falcons QB Matt Ryan Boston College
The Mike Vick era, and saga, are over. Time to move on and getting a franchise QB under center is what the Falcons need to do. Matt Ryan is a natural leader with charisma who has all the physical skills to back it up . Though he may not be as naturally athletic as Woodson or have the career Brohm has had, Ryan is definitely at the top of this years QB class in the draft. But is he worth the pick here?

4 Raiders RB Darren McFadden USC
The Raiders should really take Sedrick Ellis here, but Al Davis can’t pass up a big name. McFadden would give the team a marquee player for the fans to fill the stands for, as well as give them a very deep running back corps.

5 Chiefs OT Jake Long Michigan
The Chiefs have major needs along the offensive line, and getting a player like Jake Long would go a long way in filling those needs. Long has the arm span and feet to be a successful pass blocker, but has the power and demeanor to but a road grader for the Chiefs running game as well.

6 NY Jets DT Sedrick Ellis USC
The Jets would love to get Chris Long, but they would happily settle for Sedrick Ellis here. Ellis has the tools to play defensive end in a 3-4 alignment, and could end up being a dominating force from that spot for the Jets. Some may think quarterback here, but I don’t think the Jets have given up on Kellen Clemens.

7 Patroits (SF) LB Vernon Gholston Ohio State
What the Patriots really want is an inside linebacker or cornerback, but they usually always take the best talent available that fills something of a need. Gholston would excel as an outside linebacker in the Patriots 3-4 scheme, and would be the eventual replacement for one of their aging players.

8 Ravens QB Brian Brohm Louisville
Steve McNair is done, and Kyle Boller is too inconsistent to be successful in the long run. Between Brohm and Woodson, Brohm is closer to the finished product so the new coach in town will likely go with this pick. With Jon Ogden retiring, the Ravens would strongly consider Ryan Clady, but getting a franchise QB needs to be the focus here.

9 Bengals LB Keith Rivers USC
It seems like Marvin Lewis has drafted thirty linebackers the past three years. Now that they are beginning to take character into account, the Bengals should be pretty comfortable with this pick. Rivers has the speed to play outside, and the size to play inside. In all likelihood he’ll patrol the weakside for the Bengals.

10 Saints CB Michael Jenkins South Florida
With Rivers off the board, the Saints reach somewhat to get a shutdown corner with Michael Jenkins. Jason David was a big flop, and Mike McKenzie can’t play forever. Michael Jenkins has prototype size and speed and would instantly upgrade the secondary for what amounts to a pretty mediocre unit.

11 Bills DE Calais Campbell Miami, FLA
With no one on the board that fills an outstanding need, the Bills take a quality pass rusher to put into their defensive end rotation. Campbell is huge and would be a force in both the pass rush and run stopping areas of the Bills defense. They could even move him inside on passing downs with his strength.

12 Broncos OT Ryan Clady Boise State
The Broncos would be thrilled if Clady fell to them here. Denver needs a replacement for the retired Matt Lepsis, and Clady has the talent to start immediately. Though Kenny Phillips would be a big temptation, Mike Shanahan knows that keeping Jay Cutler upright and on the field is the key to this teams future.

13 Panthers FS Kenny Phillips Miami, FLA
Carolina rejoices in being able to make this pick. Phillips is far and away the cream of the crop amongst safeties, and that spot is the Panthers biggest hole to fill. Phillips has the speed to cover slot receivers, and is a natural tackling machine in support of the run defense.

14 Bears QB Andre Woodson Kentucky
The Bears need to make a hard decision; is Grossman the guy? The answer is no, and they understand that. Brian Griese didn’t get the job done, and few feel Kyle Orton has the tools to be a starter in the NFL. Woodson has a rocket arm and will benefit from a year of learning while Rex leads the Bears in 2008.

15 Lions LB Dan Connor Penn State
Dan Connor is considered to be a better prospect than Paul Posluzny was last season, and “Puzz” was playing at a high level when he was injured and had to be put on the IR list in Buffalo. The Lions have a big need at the Mike spot, and Connor would be a good fit for this Tampa Two defense.

16 Cardinals RB Rashard Mendenhall Illinois
Word out of the desert is that Edge is likely to be released. Mendenhall is a special talent that this offense would love to have as a part of it. Upgrades along the offensive line and in the secondary are tempting, but Mendenhall is a do-it-all back that will be a day one starter in Arizona.

17 Vikings WR Limas Sweed Texas
The quarterback position is what needs to be upgraded, but the Vikings miss out on the Big Three of this draft. That said, wide out is still a unit needing a top talent. Enter Limas Sweed, despite his wrist injury. Sweed has excellent size and speed and was probably ready to turn pro in 2006.

18 Texans OT Chris Williams Vanderbilt
The Texans have been searching for that special left tackle forever, it seems. Williams has great feet and a long wing span which will help keep the defense at bay. Now that Houston has their franchise quarterback, they need to protect him in earnest. Williams is a step in that direction.

19 Eagles DE Derrick Harvey Florida
The Eagles could go a number of ways here, but they need to upgrade their defensive line. Harvey needs to add some bulk to take his A-game to the NFL, but the natural talent is without question. Derrick will help solidify the pass rush in Philly for years to come, and allow the Eagles to platoon Jevon Kearse more.

20 Buccaneers WR DeSean Jackson California
The Bucs can’t continue with the receiving personnel they have. Galloway is a remarkable receiver for his age, but that won’t last. Jackson has decent size, but has shown great quickness and the speed to beat the defense deep. He would be a great addition to this offense.

21 Redskins OT Jeff Otah Pittsburgh
Jeff Otah is a raw talent, but he has the most upside of any offensive tackle in this draft. He will be groomed at right tackle, but could eventually move over to the left side if Chris Samuels leaves the ‘skins. Otah needs to control his weight, but despite his bulk he moves extremely well.

22 Cowboys (Cle)CB Antoine Cason Arizona
The Dallas Cowboys have few weak spots, but cornerback is one of them. Terrance Newman is 30 years old, and Anthony Henry is a marginal starter. It’s high time for them to use a pick on a player who can step in and produce right away. Cason has questionable straight line speed, but makes up for it with his instincts and athletic skills.

23 Steelers OT Sam Baker USC
The Steelers will probably lose Max Starks in free agency. Should they not fill that void via free agency, they will likely use this pick to fill that spot. Sam Baker has some issues, which leads to his slide down the first round, but his talent is unquestionable.

24 Titans CB Aqib Talib Kansas
Though the Titans really need a wide receiver to stretch the field, this draft has plenty of depth at that position. The Titans also need to shed themselves of Adam “Pac-man” Jones, who apparently has not learned his lesson about staying away from trouble. Talib is a playmaker who would give them good depth and possibly an immediate starter to replace Jones.

25 Seahawks TE Martellus Bennett Texas A&M
If the Seahawks lose Marcus Trufant to free agency, they could go with a cornerback here to try and replace him. However, the Seahawks are lacking a tight end who can split the safeties deep and open up the field underneath. Bennett has an excellent size/speed combo that the Seattle fans would love to see.

26 NY Giants CB Terrell Thomas USC
The Giants got a boost from their first round pick last year, cornerback Aaron Ross, for their defense. Sam Madison is aging, and RW McQuarters is better as a nickel or dime coverage back. Thomas has great skills and could be a solid contributor immediately. There is some character concerns to look at, but if he interviews and performs well at the Combines, he could rise even higher in the draft.

27 Jaguars DE Quentin Groves Auburn
The Jaguars have few holes to fill, but getting another good pass rusher is definitely on their list. Paul Spicer came up big this past season, but the Jags still need to have another dedicated pass rusher in their arsenal. A defensive tackle would be a strong consideration, but none are available that are of value here.

28 Chargers RB Felix Jones Arkansas
The Chargers have needs at inside linebacker, but no prospect of value is on the board at this point. Without a second, third or fourth round pick, San Diego has to make the right choice. I suspect they will try to trade down, but if not they would take the best player available and LT’s eventual heir.

29 Cowboys WR Malcolm Kelly Oklahoma
Terry Glenn and Terrell Owens are not getting any younger, and their bodies have shown signs of wear and tear. Malcolm Kelly is a big, fast receiver in the mold of a TO, and the Cowboys would love to have him on their roster. If Kelly falls this far, the pick is a no-brainer.

30 49ers (IND) WR Adarius Bowman Oklahoma State
The 49ers have brought in Mike Martz to lead their offense, and that means passing the ball. The current group of receivers in the Bay are average at best. Bowman would give Alex Smith a big receiver with speed and a legitimate number one wideout to throw to.

31 Packers RB Jonathan Stewart Oregon
The Packers may feel that Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson are just fine for their offense, but they need to face reality. They got by this season, but if Brett Favre leaves their rushing game becomes priority one to stop for any defense. Getting a franchise back like Jonathan Stewart is the way to build up this team in the coming years of Brett AD.

Early Entrants for the 2008 NFL Draft

2008-01-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was the last day underclassmen could declare for the NFL Draft, and more than 40 early entrants have declared. Players have 72 hours to withdraw their names. The list of early entrants into the 2008 NFL draft in alphabetical order are:

Branden Albert Virginia OG Junior
Adrian Arrington Michigan WR Junior
Earl Bennett Vanderbilt WR Junior
Martellus Bennett Texas A&M TE Junior
Davone Bess Hawaii WR Junior
Calais Campbell Miami DE Junior
Jamaal Charles Texas RB Junior
Ryan Clady Boise State OL Junior
Anthony Collins Kansas OT Junior
James Davis Clemson RB Junior
Jermichael Finley Texas TE Sophomore
Brandon Flowers Virginia Tech CB Junior
Vernon Gholston Ohio State DE Junior
Letroy Guion Florida State DL Junior
Ryan Grice-Mullen Hawaii WR Junior
James Hardy Indiana WR Junior
Derrick Harvey Florida DE Junior
Geno Hayes Florida State LB Junior
Erin Henderson Maryland LB Junior
Jack Ikegwuonu Wisconsin CB Junior
DeSean Jackson California WR Junior
Felix Jones Arkansas RB Junior
Malcolm Kelly Oklahoma WR Junior
Justin King Penn State CB Junior
Xavier Lee Florida State QB Junior
Curtis Lofton Oklahoma LB Junior
Mario Manningham Michigan WR Junior
Rashard Mendenhall Illinois RB Junior
Phillip Merling Clemson DE Junior
Darren McFadden Arkansas RB Junior
Lamar Myles Louisville LB Junior
Michael Oher Mississippi OT Junior
Kenny Phillips Miami S Junior
Darius Reynaud West Virginia WR Junior
Ray Rice Rutgers RB Junior
Pat Sims Auburn DT Junior
Steve Slaton West Virginia RB Junior
Kevin Smith UCF RB Junior
Reggie Smith Oklahoma CB Junior
Taj Smith Syracuse WR Junior
Jonathan Stewart Oregon RB Junior
Aqib Talib Kansas CB Junior

Defensive talent on display in LSU/OSU Championship Game

2008-01-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

There will be a lot of defensive talent on display tonight for the BCS Nationa Championship Game between LSU and Ohio State. So much talent in fact, that four players on the field tonight have a chance to be selected before the Lions pick at number 15. Let's take a look at the players to keep an eye on this evening an make some notes before the 2008 NFL draft.

The four players to keep an eye on are LSU Senior defensive tackle Glen Dorsey, and three Ohio State Juniors who could declare, defensive end Vernon Gholston, linebacker James Laruinaitis, and cornerback Malcom Jenkins.

DT - Glen Dorsey (LSU) #72
Senior, 6'2", 299-pounds
64 tackles (11.5 TFL), 6.5 sacks

Projected by many to be the first player taken in the 2008 NFL draft. Dorsey has the speed and power to be a disruptive force in both the passing and running games. He projects to a DT in the 4-3 or a DE in a 3-4 at the NFL level. Dorsey decided to return the LSU last season even though he appeared to be a top ten pick in the draft. He will be the first defensive lineman taken this year, the first defensive player taken, and potentially the first player taken period.

DE - Vernon Gholston (OSU) #50
Junior, 6'4", 264-pounds
34 tackles (14.5 TFL), 13 sacks

Projected by most to be the second defensive end taken after Chris Long of Virginia. A good athelete who has the speed to get to the quarterback. He projects to a DE in the 4-3, too undersized to play DE in a 3-4 scheme at the NFL level. I expect Gholston to be one of those types of players who really impresses scouts with his workouts.

LB - James Laruinaitis (OSU) #33
Junior, 6'3", 244-pounds
103 tackles (8.5 TFL), 5 sacks, 2 interceptions

Projected to go as early as the seventh pick to New England, Laruinaitis could join an interesting mix at linebacker should he declare that might include Keith Rivers (USC) and Dan Connor (Penn State). Laurinitis learned behind A.J. Hawks early in his career at Ohio State. He has excellent instincts and the ability to drop into coverage, impressive for a MLB of his size.

CB - Malcom Jenkins (OSU) #2
Junior, 6'1", 208-pounds
44 tackles (5 TFL), 3 interceptions

Projected to be one of the first cornerbacks take along with Antoine Cason. Jenkins is still a bit raw but a physical corner who can jam receivers at the line and help against the run. He would make a good fit in the Cover-2 defense the Lions employ and may still be available at pick 15 at a position the Lions have a huge need at. He

The game also features LSU linebacker Ali Highsmith #7 (6'1", 233-pounds) who could be drafted late in the first round as well. But Highsmith projects to a weakside linebacker in the NFL, one of the few spots the Lions actually don't have a need given they have Ernie Sims.

m2karateman's first 2008 mock draft

2007-11-09T06:04:00.000-08:00

Now that the NFL season is half way through, many people begin to postulate regarding the 2008 NFL Draft. I am no exception. As a result, I have put together a first round mock for your review. Feel free to comment. Be nice.......after all, it's just a mock.

2008 NFL Mock Draft v1.0

1 Dolphins DT Glenn Dorsey LSU
The Dolphins took John Beck, so QB shouldn’t be a need here. Jake Long could be the pick, as Vernon Carey is hardly the answer at left tackle, and Long is considered to be as good or better prospect than Cleveland’s Joe Thomas. No other players would really be considered here. I would suspect Miami would strongly consider a trade down, since they have tremendous needs at many spots.

2 Rams OT Jake Long Michigan
Orlando Pace is starting to show the wear and tear that comes from facing stud defensive ends for years. Long could be groomed at right tackle and eventually move over when Pace finally retires or the Rams trade or release him.

3 NY Jets RB Darren McFadden Arkansas
Thomas Jones hasn’t shown the pizzazz he did his last two seasons in Chicago, and Leon Washington is certainly not the answer. While the Jets could use help in different areas, watching the impact Adrian Peterson had in Minnesota will sway Mangini to get the long term answer at running back and help take heat off second year QB Kellen Clemens in 2008.

4 Patriots (SF) DE Chris Long Virginia
Long has a great pedigree and is a perfect fit for the 3-4 DE spot. Richard Seymour is still a great player, but age is starting to take its toll. Long would be a great fit in the locker room, and could be brought along slowly. I would expect that in reality, the Pats trade out of this spot.

5 Bengals DE Calais Campbell Miami, FL
The Bengals have a need for an accomplished pass rusher. Though they would love to land a top linebacker here, pass rusher is a need as well and Campbell is a force to be reckoned with. Despite his attendance at The U, he is not a character problem, something Marvin Lewis needs to avoid.

6 Falcons QB Andre Woodson Kentucky
The Mike Vick era, and saga, are over. Time to move on, and Bobby Petrino needs to get a franchise QB under center quickly. Many would feel Brian Brohm would be the pick, but Woodson is the better athlete and has a phenomenal arm. How many thought Leinart would go to Tennessee instead of Vince Young because of Norm Chow being a Titans coach?

7 Raiders LB Keith Rivers USC
Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard are solid linebackers, but Sam Williams is mediocre at best. Rivers is a top notch prospect that will pay immediate dividends for the Silver and Black Attack. Rivers can play the strong side, but likely the Raiders will move Howard to the SAM spot and let Rivers roam at the WILL.

8 Cardinals FS Kenny Phillips Miami, FLA
Terrence Holt was never going to be the answer at free safety in Phoenix. Adrian Wilson is an elite strong safety, but the Cardinals would love to put someone next to him that is equally as dangerous. Phillips is the real deal, and is drawing comparisons to LaRon Landry.

9 Vikings QB Matt Ryan Boston College
Adrian Peterson can’t do it alone. The sub-standard receiving corps in Minnesota is only worsened by the quarterbacks they have on the roster. Ryan is a natural leader who is highly competitive and makes the people around play better. That’s exactly the type of quarterback the Vikings need to have now.

10 Broncos OT Michael Oher Mississippi
While it’s been the defense that has hurt the team in 2007, the offensive line needs some revamping to protect Jay Cutler. Oher, should he decide to declare, could be the second tackle taken after Jake Long. He is big but has great balance and quickness, and would be able to move into the right tackle spot immediately before moving over when Matt Lepsis is ready to move on.
11 Bears QB Brian Brohm Louisville
Rex Grossman is done in Chicago, I believe. But Brian Griese is certainly not the answer, and Kyle Orton is a career backup. I am of the opinion that Brohm is another Grossman, but others have a far different outlook for him. I suspect that Jerry Angelo will feel the need to make this pick, as no other positions are really as in poor a shape as the signal caller spot.

12 Eagles LB James Laurinaitis Ohio State
Widely considered to be one of the top linebacking prospects to come out in the past few years, Laurinaitis is considered by some to be a better prospect than Patrick Willis was last year. The Eagles need a top flight middle linebacker, something Omar Gainther is not.

13 Texans RB Steve Slaton West Virginia
It will be interesting to see if Slaton even comes out after the Mountaineers have had a down season. Still, it would be a smart move if he did, because the injury risk is just too great and it would be hard to get better value than he carries right now. The Texans need someone in the backfield, because Ahman Green is pretty much used up and Ron Dayne certainly isn’t the right player for this offense.

14 Seahawks DT Sedrick Ellis USC
The Seahawks could consider a wide out prospect here, but they really do need to upgrade along the defensive front. Ellis is a four down player, capable of stopping the run and rushing the passer very well. He lacks ideal height, but makes up for it in quickness, leverage and sheer determination.

15 Saints LB Dan Connor Penn State
Dan Connor is considered to be a better prospect than Paul Posluzny was last season, and “Puzz” was playing at a high level when he was injured and had to be put on the IR list in Buffalo. The Saints would have loved to get Sedrick Ellis, but since he’s off the board they will go with the next best defensive prospect available to them.

16 Ravens OT Ryan Clady Boise State
The Ravens need to find their next Jon Ogden in a hurry, and Clady may just be the person they are looking for. A huge man with great technique and a mean streak. The Ravens could elect to pick a cornerback since that is a need as well, but a quality left tackle doesn’t come along as often as a quality corner.

17 Chiefs OT Sam Baker USC
Sam Baker could turn out to be the best tackle in this draft, but he does have some issues to deal with. Despite that, the Chiefs will take a chance on him, because in reality they have no other choice. Baker is polished and has what it takes to be a great tackle on either side of the center, but he needs to make sure his off-field life doesn’t hurt his chances to have a stellar NFL career.

18 Bills CB Malcolm Jenkins Ohio State
If the Buckeyes win the National Championship, I have little doubt Jenkins will declare. The Bills have had good luck with Ohio State defensive backs in the past, and they will smile at their fortune here if Jenkins falls to them.

19 Panthers WR DeSean Jackson California
The Panthers could really use a quarterback to groom, since David Carr is not the answer and Jake Delhomme is not getting any younger. But with no real prospects available, getting another solid wide receiver isn’t such a bad idea. Jackson is a great athlete who could pair quite nicely with Steve Smith or be used in the slot to allow Dwayne Jarrett some starting time and move Keary Colbert into the fourth receiver role.

20 Cowboys (CLE) WR Early Doucet LSU
Terry Glenn is probably done for, and Terrell Owens is getting along. Patrick Crayton is a solid talent, but would be better left as the slot receiver. Doucet is a talented receiver who could step in as a starter immediately and give Tony Romo another quality target.

21 Buccaneers DE Derrick Harvey Florida
Even with last years first round selection Gaines Adams, the Bucs need to continue adding rushers for this defense. Defensive tackle or offensive tackle could be considered, but Harvey is too good a prospect to pass up, as he has been a terror for two years for the Gators defense.

22 Chargers WR Adarius Bowman Oklahoma State
Despite trading their second round pick for Chris Chambers, the Chargers are still in need of receiving help. Bowman is just too good to pass up at this spot, and his size and speed combination are not something that come along everyday.

23 Jaguars DE Quentin Groves Auburn
Despite the coaching staff at Auburn moving him to OLB, Groves can add muscle and bulk for the NFL and play defensive end in a 4-3 alignment. Groves is a solid pass rusher and has shown he is willing to do what it takes to win for his team. Exactly the type of player Jack Del Rio wants on his squad.

24 Redskins DT Frank Okam Texas
While the Redskins have shown improvement in their pass rush from 2006, they still are in need of a talented interior defensive lineman. Okam is a big strong player capable of stuffing the run and collapsing the pocket alike. Offensive tackle could be a consideration as well, but Okam fills a greater need and has the talent to be a value here.

25 Lions CB Michael Jenkins South Florida
The Lions starting pair of cornerbacks aren't as solid as their numbers would indicate, and Fernando Bryant has an injury history. Jenkins has prototypical size and tackling ability for the corner in a Tampa Two defensive scheme. His speed may be a question mark, but his work ethic and natural abilities are something Rod Marinelli will covet.

26 Titans CB Justin King Penn State
It is highly doubtful that Jeff Fisher will want "Pac-man" back on his roster, despite what his team mates may say to the media. Jones has proven to be a distraction to this team and has tarnished a fine season by the Titans thus far. While getting a receiver may be what some people think they should do, the Titans want to strengthen their secondary and add depth with King.

27 NY Giants OT Gosder Cherilus Boston College
Dave Diehl has done an admirable job stepping in at the left tackle spot, but with Cherilus still on the board the Giants envision moving Diehl back to the left guard spot and securing the LT position for years to come. The Giants could consider a DT here, but none are worthy of this high a pick and keeping Eli Manning healthy is the point of focus.

28 Steelers CB Reggie Smith Oklahoma
Reggie Smith could come in and play cornerback, or the Steelers could elect to move him to safety, where Reggie played earlier in his collegiate career. Smith's versatility makes him a bargain here and will help the Steelers solidify a secondary that can be disappointing at times.

29 Packers RB Felix Jones Arkansas
Many may feel this is a reach, but one must understand that Jones is putting up great numbers while sharing time with Darren McFadden. Much like Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams, these two are pro quality players, and Jones is definitely first round talent. Mike Hart is small and doesn't have break away speed. Jonathan Stewart is a consideration, but I feel he's already peeked and Jones has less wear and tear on him.

30 49ers (IND) WR Mario Manningham Michigan
Limas Sweed is still on the board, but his injury history is too much of a concern. Though he's had nagging injuries in his career, Manningham hasn't suffered any season ending types. Though not the preferred size of a top wideout, Manningham has great speed and leaping ability, along with great body control to adjust to the pass. If he declares, this would be a solid pick for the 'niners.

31 Cowboys CB Antoine Cason Arizona
The Cowboys aren't real happy with their cornerback situation. Anthony Henry is inconsistent and Terrence Newman is injury prone. Cason doesn’t have great top end speed, but he is a playmaker and has great feel for the position. With the ‘boys getting a wide receiver with an earlier pick, this position is the next in line for getting some help.

32 Patriots Forfeited pick due to “Video-Gate”

A better NFL draft?

2007-10-23T14:04:00.000-07:00

The NFL today announced some changes to the 2008 draft. They are:

1) Ten minutes per selection in the first round, down from 15 minutes
2) Seven minutes per selection in the second round, down from 10 minutes
3) Draft starts at 3 p.m. EST on day one, back from noon
4) Second day will start at 10 a.m. instead of 11 a.m.
5) Only two drafts on the first day instead of three, meaning 5 rounds on day two

"We believe this will make for a more streamlined and efficient draft," said commissioner Roger Goodell from the league owners meetings in Philadelphia.

The first round of the draft this past year lasted a record of 6+ hours. Most teams now use the entire 15 minutes alloted for their pick trying to accomodate or make trades with other teams. If all teams still use their full 10 minutes, the first round would still last over five hours.

In rounds 3-7, teams will get five minutes per selection as they have in the past. The 2008 NFL draft will be held April 26-27 at Radio City Music Hall in New York.

Your mamma has such a big mouth...

2007-08-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

There are just some things you shouldn't tell you mother, or your father, or your siblings. Let's say you are a Heisman Trophy favorite and potential top overall pick in the draft, but also an underclassman, would you want your parents to announce you are going pro or perhaps your agent (or even yourself)?

According to his mother Mini Muhammed, Arkansas running back Darren McFadden will forgo his senior season and turn pro after his junior season and enter the 2008 draft. She told sources at ESPN that her son said,“‘ Mom, I’ll be through in December” which means that this is his final year with the Razorbacks (not including a Bowl game in January). She also said that her son will "be making big bucks.” Every mothers dream come true.

McFadden (6'2", 210-pounds) finished second to quarterback Troy Smith of Ohio State in the Heisman ballot last year despite being just a true sophomore. He finished his second campaign at Arkansas with 1,647 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns.

McFadden and his coach, Houston Nutt, both backtracked on the comments and said their focus was on the 2007 season. The native of Little Rock stated after a recent practice, “I don’t know what was said in the conversation, but I know my mom told me there were some things that were misunderstood. It’s not something I’m thinking about. I’m moving forward right now.”

Hey Darren no "your mamma" jokes here but a bit of advice instead, no more words to your mother about turning pro please...

With the Xth pick in the 2008 draft, the Detroit Lions select...

2007-05-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

For draft nerds it is never to early to start thinking of the draft and since two days have already passed since Mr. Irrelevant was picked it is time to handicap the Lions top selection for the 2008 draft. My top ten choices for the Lions draft pick, which based on history we assume will be high, in 2008:

1. Jake Long, OT, Michigan
At 6'7" and 313-pounds the Lions finally get their franchise LT from Michigan - sorry Backus!

2. James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State
The Buckeye declares early and the Lions find their MLB missing since another Buckeye - Spielman.

3. Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
Rogers and Redding give the DL a Longhorn flair, Jackson teams with Cody for the Trojans.

4. Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The Lions rank 32nd in pass defense in 07' and Aveion surely can't play cornerback can he?

5. Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
The Lions passed on Adams and Harvey's 11 sacks in 06' beat teammate's Jarvis Moss's 7.5.

6. Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
Can the Lions pass on Leinart in 06', then Quinn in 07', then Brohm in 08'?

7. Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
How well does KJ recover from his lisfranc injury? TJ only signed for 1-year.

8. Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
The Lions haven't had a great safety since that Blades kid from Miami.

9. Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
A Wolverine and a Spartan battle it out for the starting QB spot in 2009.

10. Marrio Manningham, WR, Michigan
Matt Millen takes his 5th WR in the top ten in the past six years!

Lions 2007 Draft Picks Combine & Pro Day Results

2007-04-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

Rnd 1 (2) Calvin Johnson
WR Georgia Tech (6'4" 237)

Pro Day (Brandt): Johnson, whom some people think is the most talented player in the draft, had a broad jump of 11 feet 7 inches. That's the best broad jump I can ever remember an NFL prospect having. And his vertical jump was outstanding, too (42½ inches). He looked very good catching the ball while running routes and his arm was measured at 34 5/8 inches.

Campus: 4.47 in the 40-yard dash … 45-inch vertical jump … 335-pound bench press … 33 3/8-inch arm length … 9 7/8-inch hands.

Combine: 4.4 in the 40-yard dash … 1.55 10-yard dash … 2.58 20-yard dash.

Rnd 2 (43) Drew Stanton
QB Michigan State (6'3" 235)

Pro Day (Brandt): Drew Stanton (6-3, 230) did not participate in MSU's pro day but particpate at Miami's.

Campus: 4.79 in the 40-yard dash … 350-pound bench press … 470-pound squat … 315-pound hang clean … 29½-inch vertical jump … 30 7/8-inch arm length … 9 5/8-inch hands … Right-handed.

Combine: 4.79 in the 40-yard dash … 1.67 10-yard dash … 2.75 20-yard dash … 4.41 20-yard shuttle … 6.77 three-cone drill … 30½-inch vertical jump … 9-foot broad jump.

Rnd 2 (58) Ikaika Alama-Francis
DE Hawaii (6'5" 280)

Pro Day (Brandt): Alama-Francis (6-5 1/8, 276) ran his 40s in 4.85 and 4.88 seconds. He also had a 35-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-6 broad jump. He also ran 7.31 in the cone drill and 4.62 in the short shuttle, but slipped and didn't want to run again after he stretched his groin. Alama-Francis looked outstanding in positional workout drills. And as part of Francis' workout, he did tight end drills as well and really looked good.

Campus: 4.78 in the 40-yard dash … 425-pound bench press … 535-pound squat … 340-pound power clean … 30-inch vertical jump … 33 1/8-inch arm length … 9 7/8-inch hands.

Combine: no Combine results.

Rnd 2 (61) Gerald Alexander
DB Boise State (6'0" 210)

Pro Day (Brandt): Alexander (6-0, 203) ran 4.12 in the short shuttle and 6.97 in the three-cone drill. He stood on the rest of the numbers from the Combine.

Campus: 4.55 in the 40-yard dash … 265-pound bench press … 485-pound squat … 376-pound hang clean … 358-pound power clean … 41½-inch vertical jump … 4.12 20-yard shuttle … 6.97 three-cone drill … 30 7/8-inch arm length … 9-inch hands … Right-handed … 20/38 Wonderlic score.

Combine: 4.58 in the 40-yard dash … 1.61 10-yard dash … 2.65 20-yard dash … 4.21 20-yard shuttle … 11.94 60-yard shuttle … 7.24 three-cone drill … 41-inch vertical jump … 10-foot-4 broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 15 times.

Rnd 4 (105) A.J. Davis
CB NC State (5'10" 192)

Pro Day (Brandt): Davis (5-10, 190), who was invited to the Combine, ran his 40s in 4.56 and 4.61 seconds, and the three-cone drill in 7.10. Due to a groin injury, he did not do the short shuttle. He stood on his Combine performances in the vertical jump, broad jump and bench presses.

Campus: 4.28 in the 40-yard dash … 39-inch vertical jump … 10'6" broad jump … 24'10" long jump … 330-pound bench press … 365-pound power clean … 10.56 100-meter dash … 30-inch arm length … 8 1/8-inch hands … Left-handed … 18/23 Wonderlic score.

Rnd 4 (117) Manuel Ramirez
G Texas Tech (6'3" 335)

Pro Day (Brandt): Ramirez (6-3¼, 330) was not cleared to work out. At the Combine, he bench-pressed 225 pounds 40 times.

Campus: 5.14 in the 40-yard dash … 550-pound bench press … 785-pound squat … 24-inch vertical jump … 7-foot-10 broad jump … 33 1/8-inch arm length … 10 5/8-inch hands … Right-handed … Wears contacts.

Rnd 5 (158) Johnny Baldwin
OLB Alabama A&M (6'2" 232)

Pro Day (Brandt): Baldwin (6-1 3/8, 232 pounds) ran his 40s in 4.60 and 4.59. He also had a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot-4 long jump, 4.32 short shuttle, 6.91 three-cone drill and 27 bench presses.

Campus: 4.59 in the 40-yard dash...Bench pressed 225 pounds 27 times … 38-inch vertical jump … 10-foot-4 broad jump … 4.32 20-yard shuttle … 6.91 three-cone drill.

Rnd 7 (255) Ramzee Robinson
CB Alabama (5'9" 182)

Robinson (Mr. Irrelevant) did not work out at Alabama's pro day nor was he invited to the Combine.

Brandt's Analysis: Robinson (5-9 1/8, 184; 4.50) plays much bigger than his height. He was a great role model and leader at Alabama.

Pablo's Massive (XXXXXXL) Sleeper (5th-round pick Millen?)

2007-04-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

There is a kid down in Texas around the Houston (went to Ball High School in Galveston) area I've heard about on the Sports radio a few times that I considered wrapping into an April Fools article this year but it fell on a Saturday and I was a little more focused on the birth of my son than getting out an article that week, anyways...

OK, before I get into some of the crazy measureables let me get some of the issues out of the way first. This guy has some serious character flaws, he was arrested for conspiracy to commit robbery, which ended his college football career - as brief as it was.

Now lets get to the crazy measureables for this very unique defensive tackle (yes, imagine this guy in the rotation with Big Baby, Redding, and Cody)....

This 21-year old kid is 6'5", 374-pounds (not a typo) and has been clocked at a sub-5.0 (actually a 4.9 in the 40). He benches 475-pounds and squats 800-pounds.

And it is not just his blend of size and speed that makes him almost a myth down here in the Lone Star state - the dude can move like a cheerleader on the sideline. Seriously, this guy does handstands with ease, cartwheels, and even backfilips. He has unheard of flexibility and agility for a man of his stature.

Now I know y'all (a common phrase we use down here in Tejas) are thinking this is still some kind of April Fool's Day joke, but all kidding aside I'm telling the absolute truth.

His name is Walter Thomas. He was on the State Top 100 list for high schools down (ranked the 18th best prospect in Texas in 2004 and a top 20 DT prospect nationally by Rivals.com) here and I still remember just being shocked by his mammoth size (6'6" and 330-pounds coming out of HS) but figured he couldn't move until I started hearing the whispers of his agility and ability.

He caused some stir in the Big 12 by committing to Oklahoma State, then saying he was going to Texas A&M instead, before finally landing back with the Cowboys. He went to Oklahoma State as a Freshman, but flunked out. He then went to tiny Northwest Mississippi where he only played in two games piling up 16 tackles, 5 of them for loses, with 4 sacks.

I'm surprised there has been little to no mention of him. He was allowed to work out at Mississippi's State's Pro Day and it was recorded by Gil Brant on NFL.com

Mississippi State Pro Day Results

DT Walter Thomas of Northwest Mississippi Community College participate in Mississippi State's Pro Day, working out indoors on FieldTurf in ideal conditions. Thomas originally entered school at Oklahoma State.

Walter Thomas DT Thomas (6-4 3/8, 374 pounds) ran his 40s in 5.11 and 5.27. He also had a 1.73 10-yard dash, 24½-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-4 long jump, 4.84 short shuttle, 7.76 three-cone drill, 27 bench presses and 11½-inch hands 27 bench.

Here is his scouting report for NFL Draft Countdown

Walter Thomas Scouting Report

Strengths:
Outstanding size and a huge frame...Very athletic...Fast and quick off the snap for a man of his dimensions...Strong and extremely powerful...Fantastic feet...Upside is basically limitless...Was really impressive at the Texas vs. Nation All-Star game.

Weaknesses:
Extremely raw and he will need a lot of attention and coaching...Conditioning is a concern and he'll need to lose a ton of weight...Has very little experience at any level...Work ethic is very questionable...Has character issues...Workout warrior?

Notes:
Began his career at Oklahoma State where he played as a true freshman in 2004 before getting kicked off the team...Did not play football in 2005 and played saw little action in 2006 before opting to enter the draft as a junior...The definition of a long-term project but he'll get a few looks due to his rare size and measurables.

Now a team like the Lions has to take some risks to turn things around and with four fifth-round picks (139, 145, 154, and 158), why not take a chance on Big Walt?

With the second pick in the 2007 NFL draft the Detroit Lions select???

2007-04-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

In reviewing the Lions draft situation with the second overall pick in the draft I see only one perfect strategy for Detroit. This is done assuming the Raiders select quarterback JaMarcus Russell and fully knowing Detroit covets defensive end Gaines Adams out of Clemson to be that pass rushing threat the Tampa-2 relies upon heavily to be successful.

Before I lay out the Lions strategy, let me tell you who I personally would like to see in a Lions uniform in order of preference:

1) JaMarcus Russell - the Lions haven't had a QB in how long? JR has the biggest arm in history.
2) Patrick Willis - MLB has been the weak spot of the D for a few years now and Willis has all the tools.
3) Adrian Peterson - KJ is a ? mark and a one-two punch at RB seems a requirement in the NFL today.
4) Calvin Johnson - Roy and Mike made up one of the best WR duos in the NFL last year but CJ is a freak.
5) LaRon Landry - Detroit's pass D is terrrible, Landry and Bullocks set the safety position for years.

As you probably can guess by now, I'm not a big fan of either Gaines Adams or Joe Thomas, but that really doesn't matter as far as the strategy is concerned.

So what do the Lions need to do?

They do like the Chargers did with Eli Manning - take the player that allows them to force a trade with the best possible return. And that player, as you might have guessed, is Calvin Johnson.

In fact, this gives the Lions much more leverage than they have right now or even once they are on the clock. Consider the King's ransom the Chargers got after taking Eli...

Rights to 2004 4th Overall Pick - Used to sign Quarterback Philip Rivers.
2005 1st Round Draft Pick - Used to draft and sign Linebacker Shawne Merriman.
2004 3rd Round Draft Pick - Used to draft and sign Kicker Nate Kaeding.
2005 5th Round Draft Pick - Traded to Tampa Bay Buccaneers for Left Tackle Roman Oben.

Not bad when you consider that Rivers, Merriman, and Kaeding are all pro bowl players while Eli watches his brother play in Hawaii every year!

IMO this is the best course of action the Lions can take and the worse case scenario (which many of you would consider the best case scenario) is that Detroit gets stuck with the best WR prospect to enter the NFL in years.

If I'm the Lions GM I break off all talks with the Bucs and others about two days before the draft, let them know I'm taking Calvin and I'm very happy about it, and make them all sweat it out. That is how you either 1) get the most talented player in the draft, or 2) get the most value out of the #2 pick.

"With the second pick in the 2007 draft the Lions select Calvin Johnson" - if anything else happens this Saturday (assuming the Raiders take JR) then Detroit blew it... It is the only acceptable strategy to maximize a critical pick for this sorry franchise that can't afford to blow it - again!

Lions add draft flexibility via FA

2007-03-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

With the second pick in the 2007 NFL draft the Detroit Lions select...

Well that question just got a lot more difficult after the start of free agency. A few days ago it seemed like everyone had the Lions taking offensive tackle Joe Thomas out of Wisconsin. Detroit certainly needed offensive line help and Thomas was "sure fire" guy after cementing himself as the top OL in the draft at the combine. The 6-6, 311-pound Outland Trophy winner clocked in a 4.82 in the 40.

Most experts had the Lions taking Thomas, those who didn't seemed to go into two different directions. With Kevin Jones questionable to start the 2007 season with a severe foot injury, some thought the wise thing to do would be to get insurance at the position in the form of star Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson. Peterson burst onto the college scene in his very first game and looked like a Heisman trophy winner in the making. But Adrian suffered a number of setbacks including a broken collar bone last season raising red flags. There is no doubt of the talent there, the big question is health especially given Peterson's straight up running style. But could the Lions pass on his talent with a need at RB?

The other major school of thought revolved around a pass rushing defensive end, a key element in head coach Rod Marinelli's Tampa 2 defensive scheme. Gaines Adams out of Clemson secured his spot as the top rated defensive end with a couple of 40 runs in the 4.6 range and racking up 12.5 sacks in his 2006 All-American season. Not bad for a nearly 6-5, 260-pound player who draws comparisons to Javon Kearse. If not Adams, Jamaal Anderson out of Arkansas was another candidate to meet this critical need for the Lions, made even more critical with the trade of James Hall.

But then the trade with the Denver Broncos happened. The Lions traded cornerback Dre' Bly and a 6th round draft pick to Denver, in return they received offensive tackle George Foster, running back Tatum Bell, and a 5th round draft pick. Foster played right tackle in Denver and started 45 out of the team's 48 games there the past three seasons helping pave the way for a number of 1,000-yard rushers. One of those 1,000-yard rushers was Tatum Bell, who started for the first time last season and amassed 1,025 rushing yards while splitting carries with another Bell, Mike. In his three seasons in Denver, Bell has 2,342 yards and 13 touchdowns. The speedster has an impressive 4.9 yards-per-carry average.

Cross offensive tackle off the list with Jeff Backus on the right side, and Foster now on the left. Also cross running back off the list with Bell headed to camp.

Cross defensive end off the priority list as well after the Lions went out and signed Tampa Bay defensive end DeWayne White to a five-year deal worth an estimated $29 million. The 27-year old White has primarily been a backup in Tampa, sitting behind Simeon Rice. While he has never had more than six sacks in a season, Rod Marinelli is very familiar with him having coached the line in Tampa and likes his upside.

So where does that leave the Lions on draft day with the second overall pick? With a lot of options, that is for sure. The only position that seems out of the question would be running back with the addition of Bell assuming Jones will at some point return. but even that is in doubt given the Lions are potentially looking to take a run at former Spartan TJ Duckett. Obviously they feel they still have some needs at running back. Opposite White at DE will be Kalimba Edwards, who has never lived up to his potential, meaning Detroit could well try to upgrade that position in the draft. Foster brings some quesion marks from Denver at tackle while Thomas seems to have few questions surrounding him.

The moves also open up the possibility to look at other options with the second pick in the draft. Calvin Johnson is considered the best prospect in the draft. Would Matt Millen really consider taking a wide receiver in the top ten of the draft for the fourth time in five years? How about Brady Quinn? Quarterback Jon Kitna is no youngster at 35, leaving Detroit with plenty of long-term question marks at the most critical position on the team.

The Lions have huge needs at cornerback with the subtraction at Bly, and at middle linebacker after the failure of the Boss Bailey experiment in 2006. But neither position has a player close to be of value to the second pick in the draft. A trade down scenario appears to be the Lions best bet. Then again, free agency has just begun, who knows what the next few months hold for Detroit. One thing is for sure, the draft just got a lot more interesting this past weekend.