The Tiger Report - Draft

First Impressions: Taylor Lewan, LT

2013-01-01T15:23:00.001-05:00

Written by Tiger Hebert
Today in the Outback Bowl, we got to see the premiere match-up of Michigan's left tackle, Taylor Lewan trying to hold off South Carolina's star defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. Even while ranking second in the nation among draft eligible left tackles, many including myself, questioned how good of a prospect Lewan really is. Is he really worthy of being a top ten pick, or is he simply the benefactor of a weak draft class?

I personally was concerned that he was, indeed, benefiting from a weak class. So when I set out to watch his battle against Clowney, I expected him to struggle. While only being a sophomore, Clowney is regarded as the best defensive end, if not best defensive player in the nation. His exceptional burst and quickness combined with his size and strength have proved to be too much for most lineman he has faced.

Despite his opponent, Taylor Lewan pleasantly surprised me today. Lewan showed that he was able to routinely keep his feet under him as a solid and balanced base. He showed the quickness to stay in front of Clowney's speed rush off the edge, without lunging or over-extending. He was able to effectively anchor against the bull rush and power moves deployed by the star pass rusher. Lewan also showed good push in the running game.

Lewan did not have a flawless game, and there were a few instances where his opponent got the better of him. But overall, I thought he handled the challenge very well. Also, late in the game Lewan went down with what appears to be an injury to his lower left leg. It appears to be a minor injury, it does not appear to be anything too serious. If anything, I believe Taylor Lewan only improved his draft stock today, despite the Wolverines' struggles against the Game Cocks.

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First Impressions: Johnthan Banks, CB

2013-01-01T13:08:00.001-05:00

Written by Tiger Hebert
I was looking forward to having a chance to watch the Thorpe Award winning cornerback from Mississippi State. Johnthan Banks is currently ESPN's #2 ranked draft eligible corner. It didn't take long before I formed a pretty strong opinion of number 13 for the Bulldogs.

What I found immediately is that his natural spot on the defense is playing right corner, which is typically considered the #2 corner at the NFL. This could be more about that fact that he played opposite of a very capable Darius Slay. What was evident immediately though, is that when someone was needed to shift into the slot, it was always Banks. Playing in the slot is often considered a unique skill-set. That versatility will make Banks highly desirable in the eyes of many NFL scouts and executives.

Another things that was noticeable, was that he was placed in different situations by the defensive calls by his coaching staff. There were occasions where he was called to play tight man, off-man, and even still times where it was pure zone. Impressively, Banks looked comfortable in each scenario. Unfortunately he I did not see any press man, but it looks like he has the physical tools to be able to excel there as well. Part of that skill-set was that he appeared to have good feet, and was very smooth and controlled in transition when he needed to flip his hips and run with a defender on a vertical route. During the film session that I watched, it was clear that North Western had no intention of throwing the ball in his vicinity, which is yet another vote of confidence for the young man.

However, despite the positive signs that I saw above, I saw a few things that were very concerning for a potential 1st round pick. With Banks lined up in the nickle covering the slot, there was a strong side run that came his way. First when the blocker engaged him, he read the play wrong and lost contain. Not only did he give up his outside leverage, but he showed little resistance to the blocker. Finally, and most concerning was when he did disengage, he simply jogged as he trailed the play. He was play-side, and the ball carrier was weaving his way down the sideline through his teammates, yet Banks never showed any hustle. He simply gave up on the play.

Personally, I think Banks could be an excellent cover corner at the next level, but I don't like the way that he simply showed little to no effort once the ball carrier passed his face. This lack of effort alone should be a serious red flag in pre-draft evaluations.

Report: Marcus Lattimore to declare for 2013 NFL Draft

2012-12-10T16:25:00.000-05:00

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Injured South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore will announce his intention to apply for entry into the NFL draft, said people familiar with the decision.

One person said Monday that Lattimore is expected to announce his decision later this week. The person spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because there has not been an official statement regarding Lattimore's decision.

The running back suffered a horrific injury to his right knee against Tennessee on Oct. 27. Doctors say Lattimore had successful surgery to repair several ligaments on Nov. 2. It is unclear when he'll be able to return to the field.

Lattimore injured his left knee in 2011 as a sophomore. He rushed for 662 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, both team highs. He is South Carolina's career leader in both overall touchdowns with 41 and rushing scores with 38.

Lattimore did not immediately answer a text message or phone call from The AP. ESPN first reported Lattimore's intention to apply for entry into the NFL draft.

Lattimore had been South Carolina's primary offensive force the past three seasons, starting from the time he stepped on campus as a freshman in 2010.

He missed the final six games of 2011 after tearing a knee ligament at Mississippi State. Lattimore had surgery on the left knee and plunged himself into rehab, returning for summer workouts with his teammates in early June.

Lattimore rushed for 1,197 yards and 17 touchdowns in 13 games as a freshman. He helped the Gamecocks win the Southeastern Conference Eastern Division and play in the league title game, where they fell to Auburn 56-17.Lattimore showed few effects from the injury this season. He had three games with at least 100 yards rushing and appeared on the way to a fourth against the Vols when he was hurt again.

Lattimore ends his South Carolina career sixth in rushing with 2,677 yards and had 11 games with 100 yards or more. He also had 74 catches for 767 yards and three touchdowns in his career.

Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

2012-11-08T20:34:00.003-05:00

Prospect RankingFull Prospect Rankings

Overall	Position	Projected Rnd
6	1	1

Mock DraftFull Mock Drafts

Rang	Brugler	Prisco	Judge
(1)	(1)	-	-

Combine Results

40	20	10	Bench
4.86	-	-	-

Vertical	Broad	Shuttle	Cone
-	-	-	-

Vitals

Height

6-3

Arm Length

Weight

220 lbs.

Is Ziggy Ansah the next great pass rusher?

2012-10-20T22:03:00.000-04:00

Posted by Evan Silva on October 20, 2012, 6:22 PM EDT

Looking for the next star NFL pass rusher?

You may need look no further than Saturday’s BYU-Notre Dame game.

No. 47 for the Cougars is defensive end/outside linebacker Ziggy Ansah, a former track athlete from Ghana who didn’t begin playing football until 2010. Notre Dame color analyst Mike Mayock happens to be pretty plugged-in when it comes to NFL draft prospects, and he showered some praise on Ansah during Saturday’s broadcast.

“I was on the phone today with three different NFL teams about Ziggy Ansah,” Mayock said. “6-foot-6, 270. Before the season, had little to no NFL rating. Right now, he’s the buzz of the NFL for the upcoming draft. Apparently, everybody on the West Coast, all their scouts are saying ‘Here’s a kid that’s come from nowhere and might be playing his way into the first round next April.’”

Ansah doesn’t have overwhelming college stats. Neither did Jason Pierre-Paul.

But he is a high-impact edge defender with speed, size, and mammoth upside, and Mayock happens to have a pretty good eye for talent.

“This kid is special off the edge,” Mayock said, before Saturday’s game even started. “No matter who’s coming to block him, he’s a handful.”

The Top 5 Cornerbacks for the 2013 Draft

2012-09-20T13:17:00.000-04:00

Russ Lande - National Football Post

As the NFL has morphed into a pass first league over the last fifteen years, the ability to pressure the quarterback and cover receivers has become vital to a defense’s success. In addition, as big receivers like Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald and Andre Johnson have become dominant players; teams are constantly trying to find tall cornerbacks who can cover them. As you read the breakdowns of the top cornerbacks below, you will not see Tyrann Mathieu as he is now expected to try and return to play for LSU in 2013, which I believe would absolutely be the smartest decision for him.

1. Dee Milliner Junior Alabama 6010 (Estimated) 199 (Estimated) 4.55 (Estimated)
Projected first round pick

US PRESSWIREAlabama CB D. Milliner goes up to try and break up pass.

When Alabama crushed Michigan to open the season, the country was introduced to Milliner who displayed shutdown cornerback skills throughout the game. At over 6’0, with long arms and a thick, muscular build, Milliner has the size and strength that NFL teams are desperately seeking. While every team wants big cornerbacks, finding one with Milliners’ foot quickness, agility, loose hips, smooth athleticism and willingness to play physical is difficult. The only area he is not elite is in pure speed as he has good, but not special playing speed. If Milliner continues to play at this level for the rest of the 2012 season then I expect he would leave school early as he would likely be a first round pick as numerous scouts have told us that he has more all-around talent than former teammate Dre’ Kirkpatrick who was a first round pick by the Bengals in the 2012 NFL Draft.

2. Johnthan Banks Senior Mississippi St. 6021 (Verified) 185 (Verified) 4.55 (Estimated)
Projected first round pick
With excellent height and long arms, Banks matches up excellently with tall receivers and combined with his ball skills he has consistently shown the ability to make plays on the ball. Quick and compact in his backpedal, Banks can transition and close quickly on passes and has the loose hips to turn and run off the line without losing a step. He is able to stay with most receivers on deep routes, but he does not have elite playing speed to stay with speed receivers and lacks the closing burst to catch up if he allows a step of separation deep. His thin frame limits his playing strength and allows strong receivers to push off and create some separation. In addition, he is not a strong or physical tackler. Every NFL scout we speak to tell us that as long as Banks works out well and runs in the low 4.5’s he is assured of being a first round pick come April.

3. Ricardo Allen Junior Purdue 5090 (Estimated) 186 (Estimated) 4.45 (Estimated)
Projected second round pick
A star player since he showed up in West Lafayette, Allen has the package of skills to carry over his success to the NFL level. Outstanding foot quickness combines with Allen’s agility and flexibility to give him a very tight, quick and compact backpedal. Equally adept at transitioning out of pedal to close on passes as he is turning and running to stay on receiver’s hip in “trail” coverage makes him more valuable because of that versatility. Allen has the playing speed to stay on even the fastest receiver’s hip deep down the field. His aggressive mentality combined with his ball skills have enabled Allen to break-up and intercept passes that many defensive backs would not even try to. If Allen chooses to come out early he would likely be a second round pick and could work his way into the first round with a strong showing in the spring.

4. David Amerson Junior N. Carolina St. 6030 (Estimated) 194 (Estimated) 4.60 (Estimated)
Projected second round pick
Things have not gone exactly as expected for Amerson so far in 2012 as he has not been the dominant, impact player that many expected. With great height and rare ball skills, Amerson makes it look easy breaking up and intercepting passes. A top athlete with the body control, balance and agility to change directions quickly, he is quick re-directing and staying with receiver out of breaks. Additionally, when playing “off” and “zone” coverages, he reads and reacts to the quarterback and pass quickly and can close in time to make play on ball. Despite all of his stellar skills, his lack of great acceleration and top end speed limit his ability to stay with receivers on deep routes, as was evident when he was beaten deep against Tennessee. Some NFL scouts have told us they think he may be better suited to slide inside to play safety in the NFL, which is why he may end up as a second round pick.

5. Sheldon Price Senior UCLA 6010 (Estimated) 185 (Estimated) 4.55 (Estimated)
Projected third round pick
While not well known amongst the fans and media, NFL scouts know exactly who Price is and believe he has starter’s talent. His athleticism has enabled him to produce in any type of coverage, which adds to his value to NFL teams. He does a good job of planting, driving and closing on passes in front of him and shows the ability to stay with most receivers in “trail” coverage. The issue is not Price’s physical talent, but rather his thin frame and how it affects his play. He can be pushed around by strong receivers and is not a strong or physical tackler. For a cornerback with his athletic ability, Price has not produced at the level he is capable of and that is why he likely will not be drafted as highly as his talent alone should warrant.

LSU offers scholarship to 8th grader

2012-07-26T10:46:00.000-04:00

Dave Miller - National Football Post

We always knew college football recruiting was a crazy business, but this story is borderline ridiculous.

Dylan Moses, who last week impressed at an LSU football camp by recording an impressive 4.46 40-yard dash,earned a scholarship offer from Tigers head coach Les Miles and his staff, according to David Helman of ESPN.com's GeauxTigerNation.

The catch? Moses has yet to start eighth grade.

The Class of 2017 prospect, who has always dreamed of playing for LSU, wasn't the only one surprised by the offer. His father was as well, believing that the staff was merely joking around at first.

Of course, Moses can't officially sign with LSU for another five years. But the 6-foot, 208-pound middle schooler made such an impression — he impressed with his broad jump and vertical leap numbers as well — that he was already given an opportunity for a future scholarship.

It's quite the feat considering that Moses won't even be old enough to play varsity this fall at LSU Laboratory School, located on the school's campus. He will instead play eighth grade football.

Matt Barkley confident he would have been drafted ahead of RGIII

2012-07-17T13:48:00.000-04:00

Posted by Michael David Smith on July 17, 2012, 12:03 PM EDT

Getty Images

Matt Barkley decided to keep playing quarterback at USC this year instead of entering the NFL draft. But Barkley believes that if he had entered this year’s draft, he would have been the second player taken.

Barkley said on the Dan Patrick Show that although he believes the Colts had already locked in on taking Andrew Luck first overall long before Barkley even decided whether or not to enter the draft, he definitely believed at the time that he chose to return to USC in January that he was an elite prospect.

“I had confidence that I was going to go high, it wasn’t really a question of that as to why I came back,” Barkley said. “I think it was a sure bet that Andrew was going to go No. 1.”

Asked if he thinks he — not Robert Griffin III — would have gone No. 2 after Luck went No. 1, Barkley said he does.

“I had confidence in that — I think I could have been,” Barkley said.

That’s possible, but NFL teams seemed to fall so deeply in love with Griffin at the Scouting Combine that it’s unlikely Barkley would have been drafted ahead of Griffin. A more interesting question is how the rest of the draft would have shaken out with Barkley in the mix. Maybe the trading hot spot wouldn’t have been the second overall pick, where the Redskins traded up so they could draft Griffin, but the third overall pick, which teams might have targeted to ensure that they’d get one of the three top quarterbacks.

Barkley mentioned the Redskins, Vikings and Dolphins as teams he’s heard have interest in him. The Redskins and Dolphins both ended up drafting other quarterbacks in the first round this year, so we can cross them off the list of teams that might draft Barkley in 2013, although the Vikings could be in the market for Barkley in 2013 if they have another bad season with 2011 first-round pickChristian Ponder at the helm.

However, there’s no guarantee that Barkley will be the No. 1 pick in the 2013 NFL draft. Several other quarterbacks — including Tyler Wilson of Arkansas, Logan Thomas of Virginia Tech and Landry Jones of Oklahoma — could be a strong 2012 college football season away from being the top pick in 2013. Even if Barkley is right that he would have gone No. 2 this year, he still has a lot of work to do before NFL teams decide on their grades for him next year.

Scouting Report: T.J. McDonald - Safety, LSU

2012-07-10T07:36:00.000-04:00

StelersRule - Draft Database

T.J. McDonald, S, USC

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 205

Class: Senior

2011 Stats: 69 tackles, 3INTs, 37 yards, 2PDs

Draft Projection: First Round, potentially top 10

Draft Grade (out of 100): 92.5

Player Comparison: Nick Collins, S, Green Bay Packers

Strengths:

Great athlete
Can cover slot WRs
nose for the ball
Solid tackler
Complete prospect – great work ethic, team leader, etc
Speed
Big hitter
Ability to blitz
good hands

Weaknesses:

injury concerns (minor)
Over aggressive at times

Final Word: McDonald projects as the best safety in a loaded safety class. He can do everything you want a free safety to do and he is a safe prospect. With a strong senior season, he could become a top ten pick.

Scouting Report: Tyler Wilson - Arkansas, QB

2012-06-22T11:33:00.000-04:00

StelersRule - Draft Database

Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 220

Class: Senior

2011 Stats: 277 for 438 – 3638 yards – 63.2 completion % – 8.31 YPA – 24TD – 6INT

Draft Projection: Top 10 – Wilson will need another similar year to last year to solidify himself as a top 10 pick but if he does have another great year, he could be in discussion for the #1 overall pick

Draft Grade (out of 100): 94.0 – I have Barkley rated slightly higher than Wilson (95.0) because he is more polished and more proven. Wilson can raise this number with another strong season.

Player Comparison: Phillip Rivers – Like Rivers, Barkley has a cannon for an arm and can make all the throws. I would say that Wilson takes better care of the ball than Rivers did and he is smaller than Rivers but in terms of skill set, they are similar.

Strengths:

Arm Strength: Wilson has an incredible arm and he has accuracy on the deep balls as well. Wilson can make all the throws and won’t have any limitations in terms of a system.
Good Accuracy: Wilson has the accuracy to fit balls into tight windows and can throw against good coverage. He has accuracy to all three levels and that can be seen by his completion percentage and YPA.
Good Mobility: While Wilson does not scramble that often, he has incredible mobility and is good at avoiding sacks. Think Ben Roethlisberger or Eli Manning. While they don’t often scramble, they will move around in the pocket and avoid sacks.
Upside: This is where Wilson will raise his stock. Wilson has incredible upside because of his arm strength and mobility. With some coaching and some refining to his technique, he could become a franchise QB.

Weaknesses:

Needs to work on mechanics outside of the pocket: Wilson, while he has the mobility similar to Big Ben, does not keep his mechanics when he gets outside the pocket. He tends to rush throws and struggles with his accuracy when on the run.
Pocket Presence: While Wilson has good mobility, he does not always feel the pressure from the blind side. He took 24 sacks last year and will need to improve that number if he wants to become an elite QB.

Final Word: Wilson has all the tools you look for in a franchise QB but needs to work on his pocket presence and mechanics outside the pocket. However, he has unteachable talent and will be a high pick in the draft because of those talents.

Scouting Report: David Amerson - N.C. State, CB

2012-06-20T07:19:00.000-04:00

StelersRule - Draft Database

David Amerson, CB, N.C. State

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 194

Class: Junior

2011 Stats: 59 tackles, 13 INTs, 205 INT Return Yards, 2TDs, 5PDs

Draft Projection: Top 10

Draft Grade (out of 100): 98

Player Comparison: Ladarius Webb, CB, Baltimore

Strengths:

Ball Skills
Size
Athleticism
Man cover abilities
Tackling
Run Support

Weaknesses:

Is he a safety or a corner?
Speed

Final Word: Amerson is arguably a better prospect than Patrick Peterson or Morris Claiborne. It is not often that you find someone who can cover as well as he can and be an absolute ballhawk at the same time. He could come into the NFL and immediately be the best ball hawk in the league.

Scouting Report: Robert Lester - Alabama, S

2012-06-15T10:46:00.000-04:00

by SteelersRule125 - NFL Draft Coverage

Robert Lester, S, Alabama

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 210

Class: Senior

2011 Stats: 24 tackles, 2INTs

Draft Projection: First to Second Round – Notice that I have a first round grade on him (above a 90) but because of the talent at the safety position and the fact that you won’t normally see 3 safeties in the first round, I could see him going in round 2. I currently have T.J. McDonald and Tony Jefferson above him and I only see 2 safeties going in round 1.

Draft Grade (out of 100): 91.0 – I have Lester graded as a late first rounder because of his upside to be a ballhawk. Despite getting only 2 INTs as a Junior, he had 8 INTs as a sophomore and I think he returns to that form.

Player Comparison: Rahim Moore

Strengths:

Very smart, hardworking player – Like most Alabama players, Lester is intelligent and hardworking. You can see this by his good physical shape and the fact that he is usually in the right place on the football field
Great center field ability – In his two years as a starter for Alabama, Lester has shown the ability to play center field. He has 10 interceptions in the 2 years and most of them came when lined up in deep zone and just reading the play
Always around the ball, creates a lot of turnovers – This ties in with the point above. Lester is in the right place at the right time and has the ability to make big plays after the INT.
Great coaching – This is a given with any player from Alabama
Solid in coverage on slot WRs – Lester has shown the ability to cover slot WRs in his two years at Bama. He does not get beat very often and has good technique
Scheme versatility – He can play zone or man (ties in with the above point). Nick Saban uses him in a variety of ways similar to Troy Polamalu. At times you see him in the box. Other times you see him dropping into a deep zone and other times he is lined up on a slot WR.
Good athlete – Lester is athletic and has good speed. He is not going to blow you away with speed but he has above average speed for a safety.

Weaknesses:

Only an average tackler – Lester has good form but at times he is over-aggressive and misses tackles. He also occasionally takes bad angles
Does not attack the line of scrimmage on running plays – Lester appears to be hesitant at times when playing the run. He will wait about five to seven yards and allow the runner to get to him instead of meeting the runner near the line of scrimmage
Tries to hard to get an interception – At times, Lester overplays the ball in the air and leaves himself vulnerable to big plays. Lester must learn that when he is the last line of defense, he has to be safer and avoid being beaten deep

Final Word: Lester is a very good safety prospect and has the tools to be a fantastic safety. His weaknesses are all things that can be coached out of him and if he continues to work hard, he will be a star. He has the talent to have a huge year and become the #1 safety in next year’s class.

Scouting Report: Da'Rick Rogers - Tennessee, WR

2012-06-13T07:34:00.000-04:00

West Bunting - National Football Post

WR Da’Rick Rogers: Tennessee (6-3, 215)

What I like…

ICONRogers knows how to box out defenders.

- Is a man-child with “plus” power, girth and size for the position.
- Is a bear to bring down after the catch, has the power to break tackles and isn’t afraid of contact over the middle of the field.
- Possesses a good first step for his size off the line and gets up to speed quickly.
- Showcases natural footwork and body control as a route runner.
- Exhibits the ability to sink his hips and cleanly/sharply get out of his breaks creating a burst for himself.

- Isn’t limited to just vertical routes, can run sharply breaking routes and uses his big frame well to box out corners.
- Exhibits a unique combination of quickness and power/size to make plays in the slot as well. Can run corners off his route and use a subtle bump to gain a step a separate.
- Uses his hands and big frame well down the field when corners want to be physical. Showcases good body control and routinely can fight through contact and gain inside position.
- Showcases enough quicks and power to get corners off balance when they try to press and will get into his route quickly.
- Isn’t afraid to work the middle of the field. Looks natural snapping his head around quickly, finding the football and going up to make a play.
- Knows how to work the three step gain and use his burst/size to gain a step inside and create.
- Possesses a strong frame with strong hands and will hold onto the football through contact.
- Gets up field quickly after the catch and exhibits the power/balance to break tackles in space.
- Has the size and willingness to mature into a “plus” NFL run blocker.

What I didn’t like…

- Isn’t a dynamic vertical athlete, seems to max out quickly and isn’t a guy who can routinely get behind defenders. Plays like a 4.5 guy.
- Lacks elite short area explosion once he gains a step and is routinely going to have to play with NFL corners in his back pocket.
- At times seems to struggle to stay on the same page with his quarterback as to when to break off routes and find the football down the field.
- Will have lapses in concentration when open and put the football on the ground.
- Doesn’t have the initial burst vertically to consistently force corners to open up their hips and be scared of him over the top. Allowing them to sit on his routes.
- Isn’t overly shifty/dynamic with the ball in his hands. Isn’t going to make many defenders miss.
- Has had some off the field issues.

Overall…

Tennessee wide out Da’Rick Rogers isn’t a guy who is going to threaten NFL defenses vertically and he’s not a guy who is going to separate a ton out of his breaks.

However, he possesses a big body with natural strength and power, and knows how to box defenders away from the play. But, more importantly there is a natural balance to his game as a route runner and he showcases the foot quickness and flexibility to drop his pad level and cleanly get out of his breaks on sharply breaking routes.

Therefore, I can see him becoming a starting caliber “X” on the outside in the NFL and also create for teams from the slot down the seam, as he’s fearless over the middle of the field. Projects as a solid second round type talent as of now.

Scouting Report: Jarvis Jones - Georgia, OLB (3-4)

2012-06-12T07:33:00.000-04:00

by Seton Hall and Steelers on Mocking the Draft

Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 241

Class: RS Junior

2011 Stats: 70 tackles, 13.5 sacks

Draft Projection: Top 5

Draft Grade (out of 100): 98.5

Player Comparison: James Harrison, OLB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Strengths:

excellent athlete
incredible burst off the line of scrimmage
incredible upside
great production
plays with anger against both the pass and the run
good wrap up tackler
good bull rush
good leverage
can drop into coverage and be effective
big hitter
fantastic motor
long arms

Weaknesses:

Has some troubles disengaging from blocks in the run game
Needs more seasoning in his pass rush repertoire
Could add weight
inexperienced
Neck injury his freshman year of college

Final Word: Jones has James Harrison like upside and is a very safe pick. I currently have him graded as my #1 player in the 2013 draft. He plays mean, fast, and smart and can do everything you look for in a 3-4 OLB.

Scouting Report: Johnthan Banks - Miss State, CB

2012-06-11T21:18:00.000-04:00

Matthew Fairburn - Mocking the Draft

Johnthan Banks | CB | Mississippi State | 6-2, 185 pounds

Games Watched: LSU, South Carolina, Arkansas (2011)

First Word: Johnthan Banks made the right choice returning to school for another season. He has tons of natural ability and instincts for the position but needs to become stronger to improve in press coverage. Few receivers can beet Banks over the top, but physical receivers like Alshon Jeffery and the Arkansas wideouts had some success against him. While he isn't a physical corner, Banks has shown a willingness to make plays at the line of scrimmage and is a pretty reliable tackler. Banks' issues can all be corrected on the field or fixed in the weight room. The natural instincts for the position are all there.

Strengths

Banks has plenty of speed. He is very tough to beat over the top because of his high-end speed and leaping ability.
Ball skills are a strong point in Banks' game. He is skilled at attack the ball at its apex and has sure hands.
A solid contributor on run defense, Banks is agressive and has a nose for the football. He is a solid tackler for his size as well. I love his aggressiveness in all aspects of his game, including run defense.
Banks has an extremely smooth back pedal and fluid hips in coverage.
Mississippi State used Banks to blitz quite a bit last year, and he has the range to be effective in that area.

Weaknesses

Banks lacks the strength to handle physical receivers. Alshon Jeffery and the Arkansas wideouts gave him some trouble.
Banks would benefit from reigning in his aggression at times. He occasionally plays himself out of position.
He struggled to defend comeback routes at times last season. I'm not sure if this is a product of his lack of physicality or ability to close on the ball, but Arkansas clearly attacked Banks in this area during their meeting last season

Top 5 RB prospects for 2013

2012-06-08T20:06:00.000-04:00

West Bunting - National Football Post

1. Marcus Lattimore: South Carolina (6-0, 218)

Even when Marcus Lattimore was completely healthy as a sophomore, I would not put him in the same class as Adrian Peterson or Trent Richardson, as I don’t see the same type of explosive first step from Lattimore when pressing the hole.

Now, that isn’t to say I don’t see Lattimore (if healthy) as a potential top-5 NFL back. However, I think from an athletic and physical standpoint both Peterson and Richardson were superior. Nevertheless, if Lattimore can fully recover from his knee injury, he looks like a guy who will be ready to step in and take the pounding of an every down type NFL back from day one.

Lattimore is a guy who can keep you ahead of the chains and because of his vision and ability to break tackles he should create his fair share of long runs, much like Larry Johnson back in the day.

2. Knile Davis: Arkansas (6-0, 226)

ICONDavis could end up the draft's top RB prospect.

If Arkansas RB Knile Davis is healthy, (which he claims he is) he could put himself in position to be the number one running back drafted in the 2013 NFL draft. Davis is a thick, compact runner with good lateral quickness when he gets up to full speed. And his combination of size, power and explosiveness makes him a bear to bring down in all areas of the game.

At times he does getting a bit leggy when asked to change directions. However, he’s got the ability to break tackles on all areas of the field, run effectively inside because of his size, vision and burst, and he will create in the open field.

Therefore, if healthy, Davis has the makings of a first round caliber back and a guy who should be able to carry the load for an NFL offense early on.

3. Ray Graham: Pittsburgh (5-9, 195)

When healthy Pittsburgh running back Ray Graham possesses the type of “make you miss ability” and feel as a runner to consistently create big plays in the NFL. He lacks ideal top-end speed, but accelerates extremely well out of his breaks and looks natural running both between the tackles and toward the edge.Now, the big concern with him is his overall health. He’s coming back from an ACL tear and will need to prove he can be the same type of back he was prior to the injury.

However, when healthy there are a lot of similarities in Graham’s game to former Pittsburgh running back LeSean McCoy (who has gone on to have a stellar career in the NFL) and Graham could end up having a very similar career if he can bounce back form the knee injury.

4. Montee Ball: Wisconsin (5-9, 212)

I love the fact that Ball recommitted himself this past off-season, lost the needed weight, added quickness and had one of the most productive seasons ever as an NCAA running back. Even more impressive was the fact he did it against opposing defenses that knew the run was coming and would consistently load the box to stop him. Ball showcases a good feel between the tackles, natural quickness picking his way through traffic and has enough lateral quickness and power to break/slip tackles at the line and make his way into the open field.

The biggest concern I have with Ball was the same many had with former Wisconsin RB Ron Dayne coming out. How many of those rushing yards did Ball really manufacture on his own? The Wisconsin offensive line was as good as they come in college football with all five having the skill set to get drafted at the next level and a couple being top-end picks. Therefore, they routinely opened up gaping holes for Ball inside to run through and made his life much easier than most NCAA backs.

Now, there is obviously still a lot of talent to Ball’s game, but I don’t see him as elite caliber prospect at the position and he looks more like a second/third round type talent who would be best served in a two-back stable at the next level. But should be able to come in and be productive because of his ability to play three downs from day one.

5. Spencer Ware: LSU (5-11, 223)

When motivated and his playing weight is in check, LSU RB Spencer Ware has the skill set to start in the NFL, wear down opposing defenses and keep the offense ahead of the chains. He’s never going to be a legit big play threat and his shelf life is going to be shorter than most backs because of his demanding running style.

However, he remind me a lot of former Cowboys running back Marion Barber III and I think he could end up having a similar style career for himself at the next level.

Scouting Report: Keenan Allen - Cal, WR

2012-06-08T20:03:00.000-04:00

Wes Bunting - National Football Post

WR Keenan Allen: California (6-3, 206)

What I like…

ICONAllen can create in the open field.

- Is a tall, long-armed receiver with a naturally big frame that he can continue to grow into.
- Moves like a much smaller receiver though, showcases good balance and sudden footwork out of his breaks.
- Looks natural dropping his pad level and staying in balance on sharply breaking routes.
- Exhibits the ability to generate a burst initially off the line and out of his breaks creating separating for himself as a route runner.

- Knows how to use his big frame once he gains a step to box out corners and go get the football.
- He uses his frame well to shield defenders and absorb contact when asked to hang onto the football.
- Exhibits a savvy working the three-step game. Can set up routes, plays quick in tight areas and will box out on the throw.
- Possesses a unique combination of size, power and short area quickness off the line vs. press coverage. Uses his length well to fend off corners and has the quicks to gain a step and accelerate.
- Can be very physical after the catch when he wants to break a tackle.
- Looks sudden for a receiver of his size with the football in his hands, can slip a tackle and get up the field.
- Is a more mature route runner than you would expect for his size/age. Isn’t limited to just running vertical routes in the NFL, can drop pad level and separate running the entire route tree.
- Possesses the coordination/body control to adjust to the football and snatch off his frame.
- Showcases a wiliness to play in the slot and work the middle of the field.
- Will extend his long arms and pluck off his frame down the seam in traffic.
- Possesses the size to win as a blocker in the NFL.
- Was used on punt return duties at times and offers some insurance to an NFL team in that area.

What I didn’t like…

- Lacks elite top end speed. Possesses a good first step, but maxes out quickly and looks like a 4.5 guy.
- Concentration will plague him when asked to pluck the football. Too often he wants to run before he secures the grab.
- Gets content to trap balls against his frame. Gives defenders more of an angle to get their hands on the throw in the three-step game.
- Needs to play like a bigger receiver with the football in his hands and get north/south quicker, too often takes negative runs dancing with the football.
- Will get a bit sloppy with his footwork at times running sharply breaking routes underneath and simply just drift into his routes, which limits his separation.

Overall…

Cal wide out Keenan Allen isn’t just a big body who can box out corners and win down the seam on vertical routes. He’s also a guy who showcases an explosive first step for his size and natural balance and coordination as a route runner. He looks to have the skill set to run the entire route tree at the next level and should mature into a bonafide “X” receiver.

He needs to improve his concentration and do a better job catching the football consistently. However, physically the guy has the entire skill set to win off the line, separate on just about any route and create with the ball in his hands.

Scouting Report: Sam Montgomery - LSU, DE

2012-06-07T07:39:00.001-04:00

Joe Murphy - Getty Images

Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images

Matthew Fairburn - Mocking the Draft

Sam Montgomery | Defensive End | LSU | 6-4, 245 Pounds

Games Watched: Georgia and Alabama (2011)

I am currently in the process of constructing my first 2013 NFL Draft Big Board. While I am compiling the list, I will release some of my notes on the players I am breaking down.Rather than a full scouting report, I will be releasing notes on these players. Full scouting reports will be based on games watched this upcoming season.

First Word: Sam Montgomery forms one of the most dangerous pass-rushing tandems in the country along with his teammate Barkevious Mingo. The two rangy defensive ends bring different elements to the table. Montgomery is an excellent run defender. He holds the point of attack well and seems capable of playing with his hand in the dirt in the NFL. His pass rush is not consistently dominant, but his athleticism and motor allow room for improvement in that area entering his junior season.

Strengths:

Tremendous athlete with a solid build. Has room to add weight to his frame.
Non-stop motor and mature instincts for the position. Reads plays well and snuffs them out.
Run defense is one of Montgomery's biggest strengths. His ability to hold the point of attack makes him tough to block.
Active hands make him a threat as an interior pass rusher.

Weaknesses:

Needs to become a bit more consistent as an edge rusher.
Occasionally gets upright in run defense, allowing him to be pushed off the ball.
Needs to diversity his pass-rush repertoire.

Scouting Report: Cobi Hamilton - Arkansas, WR

2012-06-07T07:27:00.001-04:00

Wes Bunting - National Football Post

WR Cobi Hamilton: Arkansas (6-3, 209)

What I like…

ICONHamilton knows how to adjust to the football.

- Possesses a tall, long frame with good length when asked to range.
- Showcases natural body control and coordination when adjusting to the football.
- Is a natural plucker who is a massive target to throw at when asked to go get the football.
- Isn’t afraid to expose his body in traffic, displays a strong set of hands/wrists and will absorb contact through the play.
- Is a strider who builds speed as he goes and the further down the field he gets the tougher he is to cover.
- Showcases the ability to track the football vertically and has a strider gear when asked to run under the throw.
- Displays the ability to separate on vertical routes, exhibits some wiggle setting up his routes, can put his foot in the ground and use his big frame to gain momentum down the field.
- Exhibits good footwork and body control when asked to run sharply breaking routes as well.

- Understands how to keep his feet under him, be sharp out of his breaks and use his big frame to box out corners.
- Is comfortable playing with a defender in his back pocket on all areas of the field and extending his arms off his frame.
- Can take a lick over the middle and hold onto the football.
- Looks natural playing from the slot and running the seam read.
- Exhibits a physical natural after the catch, uses his stiff-arm well to break tackles and is violent in the open field.
- Has the physical natural when asked to absorb contact over the middle of the field.
- Is a no-non-sense open field runner who makes it a point to get up the field quickly.
- Can become a very good blocker in the NFL, has the size, strength and willingness to get dirty on the outside.

What I didn’t like…

- Isn’t the most explosive of self-starters and takes him a bit to reach top speed and eat up a cushion.
- Will gear down when asked to get out of his breaks and doesn’t show a real explosive first step when trying to separate on sharply breaking routes.
- Lacks an elite initial burst when trying to threaten defenders over the top, needs a couple steps in order to be effective. Isn’t a two stepper.
- Isn’t overly shifty either when asked to create after the catch, can be slow to square defenders up and break an initial tackle.
- There are some concerns about his lateral quickness to shake bigger corners off the line in press coverage in the NFL.

Overall…

Arkansas wide out Cobi Hamilton possesses a tall, strong build with the length and hand/eye coordination to routinely adjust and pluck the football off his frame. Plus, he knows how to play with a corner in his back pocket and use his strider speed to build momentum and make plays down the field.

Now, he is never going to separate a ton on sharply breaking routes at the next level and initially could struggle some vs. press coverage.

However, he’s a guy who has the skill set to run vertical routes, work the middle of the field and create down the seam. Looks like a potential second/third round type selection who should be able to start as the “Z receiver” and make plays from the slot as well at the next level.

Is Denard Robinson an NFL caliber quarterback

2012-06-06T07:32:00.000-04:00

Greg Gabriel - National Football Post

One of the more interesting players to watch this college football season will be Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson. He is a very exciting playmaker with exceptional athletic ability but is he a prospect to play quarterback in the NFL? That is the question that every NFL scout that goes to Michigan will have to answer for himself and his team.

Looking back to when Robinson was coming out of high school, he was rated as a 4 star prospect but also was not rated as a quarterback but rather an “athlete.” That tells us that the recruiting evaluators were not sure what position he would play in college. Robinson was a highly recruited player with offers from Florida, Auburn, Ohio State and Georgia as well as Michigan. While at Michigan, Robinson has played in 38 games with 28 starts. In all those games he has played quarterback. There was one game his freshman year where he also saw action as a running back.

Robinson does not have prototypical quarterback size, as he is listed at 6-0 and 190 but he may not be that tall. The one thing that stands out about Robinson is his athleticism. He is a very smooth athlete with body control, change of direction and speed. I would say that he easily has 4.45 speed in the 40. The other thing that jumps out on tape is he is not a pure passer.

ICONDenard Robinson had his best year as a passer in 2010 when he threw for 2,570 yards with a 62.5 completion percentage.

Looking back at his career, his best year as a passer was his sophomore season in 2010 when he completed 182 of 291 passes for 2,570 yards and a completion percentage of 62.5. In that season he was playing in Rich Rodriguez’s spread offense that had a fairly simple passing attack as far as reads. Last year when Brady Hoke came in as head coach the offense became more complex. Robinson played from both under center and in the shotgun and the route tree the receivers were running was more sophisticated. That showed in Robinson’s stats, as his completion percentage dropped to 55 percent.

When I was studying receiver Junior Hemingway for last April’s draft the one thing that was apparent was he was not playing in a strong passing offense. Looking at Robinson, it’s clear that he is not an instinctive thrower. He can be slow to find an open receiver and he lacks a very quick delivery. He waits for a receiver to break open before he releases the ball. While he is excellent at extending plays with his feet, he can be slow to find secondary receivers. He also can get impatient and just run. While that is a good thing for Michigan because of his running skills it hurts his evaluation as a quarterback.

Some may say that he is similar to Tim Tebow, but I don’t buy that. Tebow has much more size and isn’t nearly as fast or quick as Robinson. Their passing skills may be similar in that neither is a pure passer but Tebow’s throwing motion was much more unorthodox in college. Robinson has a tight overhand delivery and a strong arm but he often throws a loose ball. He is more of a thrower than a passer. His accuracy is average at best and like I said above, he waits for his receiver to break open before he releases the ball. He does not have good anticipation. A more accurate comparison to make of Robinson would be former West Virginia quarterback Pat White. Robinson has more speed and is a better athlete but they have similar size. I would say at this point of their careers, White was the better passer with better accuracy and instincts, but Robinson has a knack for making plays.

If Robinson isn’t a quarterback, then what is he? That’s a good question. If he had more size, I would play him at running back because of his great running skills (he ran for almost 1,200 yards last year). He lacks the size you would want for a running back so until he can work out for clubs next spring where he plays could be an unanswered question. If he shows good ability to catch the ball and run routes then receiver may be his best pro position. I’m sure there will be some clubs that will want to use him as a combination player and have a package for him at either running back or receiver as well as some plays at quarterback.

Needless to say, Robinson is one of the more exciting players in college football but that alone does not make him a top pro prospect. While many have been in awe of his playmaking ability in the past, this season he will be much more under the microscope so to speak as scouts seriously evaluate him to play in the NFL

Scouting Report: Robert Woods - USC, WR

2012-06-05T12:11:00.000-04:00

Wes Bunting - National Football Post

WR Robert Woods: Southern Cal (6-1, 185)

What I like…

ICONWoods can be a threat on all levels of the field.

-    Possesses good height for the position with a frame he can grow into.
-    Showcases natural change of direction skills for a receiver of his size, can cleanly get in and out of his breaks.
-    Is a polished route runner who has an understanding of staying in balance on sharply breaking routes, dropping his pad level and creating a burst out of his breaks.
-    Possesses a good feel vs. man coverage. Understands how to set up routes with a head/shoulder fake, keep his legs under him and accelerate.
-    Exhibits a “plus” initial first step and can initially create separation.
-    Gets up to speed quickly off the line. Is a two-stepper who can eat up the cushion quickly and reach top gear.
-
- Plays like a legit 4.4 guy vertically, tracks the football well and can routinely get behind defenders.

-    Showcases excellent body control when asked to adjust to the football.
-    Exhibits natural balance as a route runner, can stop his feet quickly and adjust.
-    Looks natural selling his nine route and forcing corners to turn their hips before snapping a route off underneath.
-    Understands how to get defenders off balance at the line of scrimmage vs. press-man. Exhibits excellent lateral quickness and accelerates well once he gains a step.
-    Is very proficient working from the slot. Understands how to find soft spots quickly,
-    Looks natural selling routes inside and quickly is able to separate and create in the open field.
-    Showcases natural burst and wiggle to his game when asked to make a man miss. Is explosive in space and accelerates well.
-    Adds a “plus” dimension as a kick/punt return man as well, can be dynamic in the open field.

What I didn’t like…

-    Despite his size, isn’t the most physical of receivers. Isn’t overly impressive in jump ball situations and doesn’t use his hands/strength real well off the line.
-    Tends to lose concentration during stretches and will put the football on the ground, needs to improve his consistent focus.
-    Tends to widen his release off the line vs. press coverage once he gains a step. Doesn’t like to absorb contact and will waste some motion getting into his route vertically.
-    Would like to see him add some more girth and get a bit stronger as well, doesn’t break a ton of tackles in the open field.

Overall…

USC wideout Robert Woods is an NFL ready route runner. He’s an explosive, balanced athlete who can cleanly change directions, get out of his breaks and separate on all levels of the field. Plus, he showcases the ability to beat press coverage on the outside and be effective in the slot.

Now, at 6-1 and 185 pounds, he’s going to need to get stronger and become more of a physical presence, as I worry about his ability to absorb contact and hold his own initially in the NFL vs. more physical corners.

However, he certainly has the ability to come in and play all over an NFL offense from day one. He possesses the frame to get stronger and in my mind certainly warrants a first round pick, as he should mature into one of the league's better overall receivers down the line.

Scouting Report: Terrance Williams - Baylor, WR

2012-06-05T07:08:00.003-04:00

Wes Bunting - National Football Post

WR Terrance Williams: Baylor (6-1, 190)

What I like…

ICONWilliams possesses a nice combo of size and wiggle.

-    Possesses an athletic frame, good size and natural length for the position.
-    Isn’t afraid to extend his long arms and pluck off his frame in the pass game.
-    Showcases good coordination/body control when asked to adjust in order to come down with the football.
-    For the most part exhibits good hands and can make plays on some really difficult throws over the middle and down the field.
-    Exhibits a “plus” initial first step off the line and eats up the cushion quickly.
-    Reaches top end speed quickly and has the ability to simply outpace defenders vertically.
-
- Displays a second gear to his game when asked to track the football vertically as well.

-    Looks natural reading zone coverage, finding a soft spot and sitting down underneath.
-    Exhibits the short area quickness to get in and out of his breaks cleanly.
-    Is a “plus” stop and go athlete. Looks natural working the “whip” route underneath. Sets up defenders well and can accelerate quickly out of his breaks.
-    Possesses the acceleration to run away from defenders on shallow and deep crossers and can create in the open field.
-    Exhibits a nice combination of wiggle and physicality in the open field. Runs hard can make an initial man miss in space.
-    Is willing to do the dirty work on the outside as a blocker. Gains leverage, is heavy handed and works his legs hard through contact.
-    Showcases a great feel when working himself open once plays breakdown. Knows when to work back to the quarterback or turn his route up the field.
-    Does a nice job cutting down the angle and working back to the football in the screen game, allowing him to gain momentum and create after the catch.

What I didn’t like…

-    Is still developing as a route runner and has yet to learn the entire route tree.
-    Tends to drift a bit away from the football at times on his comeback route, isn’t real sharp or sudden consistently out of breaks.
-    Still developing running sharply breaking routes. Wasn’t asked to run many and tends to drift in and out of breaks, wasting motion in the process.
-    Isn’t overly physical down the field in jump ball situations; can be overmatched when trying to box defenders out.
-    Will put the football on the ground at times as he tries to run before securing the catch.
-    Will need to learn to beat press coverage, tends to simply run around his man and waste some motion on his release. Has the short area quickness/physicality to develop, but had ability to simply run by defenders at college level.

Overall…

There is a lot to like about the skill set of Baylor wide out Terrance Williams. He possesses above-average size, accelerates well down the field and has a natural feel setting up routes and separating underneath. Plus, he can catch the football in traffic and adjusts well vertically.

He does need to improve as a route runner, as he wasn’t asked to run many sharply breaking routes in the Baylor offense. And he will need to learn to beat press coverage more consistently in the NFL as well. However, he’s got the skill set to develop in both areas quickly.

In my mind he looks like an NFL starter with the ability to eventually run the entire route tree and create big plays on an NFL offense. I don’t think he’s an elite prospect, but if he runs as fast as he plays, Williams projects like a potential first round selection with the ability to line up all over an offense and create on all areas of the field.

Scouting Report: Barkevious Mingo - LSU, DE

2012-06-04T09:33:00.002-04:00

Jamie Squire - Getty Images

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Matthew Fairburn - Mocking the Draft

Barkevious Mingo | Defensive End/Outside Linebacker | 6-5, 240 pounds

Games Watched: Arkansas and Georgia (2011)

First Word: Barkevious Mingo is another in a long line of talented LSU Tiger defenders that will make the jump to the National Football League. Along with Sam Montgomery, Mingo is a part of a lethal LSU pass-rushing tandem. Tiger defenders will be in the backfield all fall putting SEC quarterbacks in the turf. While Montgomery is more of a power player, Mingo will make big money someday for his speed. He turns the corner on a dime and has the closing speed to rack up the sacks.

Strengths:

Quick off the snap. He has incredible burst and uses it effectively to get a jump on the offensive line.
Speed, speed and more speed. Mingo is fast. Go back and watch the Arkansas game. You don't need to know Mingo's number to notice him flying around the field on defense.
Creative in his pass rush. Saw him develop a spin move this season.
His ability to track a play and defend from sideline to sideline is valuable to a defense.
Mingo is extremely athletic, which will help him transition to 3-4 outside linebacker, his likely NFL position.

Weaknesses:

Mingo is not the strongest player and was pushed a round a bit by some stronger tackles last season.
I don't like seeing Mingo get upright in the running game. It makes me think he is not suited to play with his hand in the dirt.
Instincts weren't always there last season. He seems to pin his ears back and go on most plays. Relies on his athleticism and talent to make plays. If he puts it all together, he will be dominant this season.

Video: Most Intriguing Rookie vs. Veteran Battles

2012-06-01T16:54:00.000-04:00

Scouting Report: Utah DT, Star Lotulelei

2012-05-31T07:38:00.000-04:00

Matthew Fairburn - Mocking the Draft

Jonathan Daniel - Getty Images

Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Star Lotulelei | Defensive Tackle | Utah | 6-4, 325 pounds

Games Watched: Washington and Colorado (2011)

First Word: Utah's defensive captain, Star Lotulelei, is one his way to becoming a first round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. A disruptive force at defensive tackle, Lotulelei often finds his way into opposing backfields with his quick burst off the snap and impressive strength. At 6-feet-4-inches tall and 325 pounds, Lotulelei is a space eater that rarely lets a ball carrier escape his grasp. I wouldn't be surprised to see him sneak into the top ten picks by next April. Utah will be a team to watch this fall strictly to track Lotulelei's progress.

Strengths:

Lotulelei is a massive man with tons of strength to push offensive linemen around. He holds the point of attack as well as any defensive lineman in this draft.
Noticeably the first defender to engage on nearly every Utah defensive snap, Lotulelei has great instincts and burst at the line of scrimmage.
Penetration is another big plus for this kid. He overpowers blockers, pushing them into the backfield with ease.
Tackling will never be an issue for Lotulelei. He is so strong and wraps up very well.
Lotulelei will make an instant impact in the NFL as a run defender. He has an advanced ability to shed blocks and stop ball carriers for minimal gains.

Weaknesses:

Lotulelei is still maturing as a pass rusher. To become a top ten draft pick, he will have to prove to be a consistent, disruptive force on the inside.
Occasionally, Star will play himself out of position on a play. Entering his senior season, I expect to see an even more instinctual player with mature play recognition. He has been somewhat inconsistent in this area to this point.

The Tiger Report - Draft

First Impressions: Taylor Lewan, LT

First Impressions: Johnthan Banks, CB

Report: Marcus Lattimore to declare for 2013 NFL Draft

No. 1 overall draft picks

Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

Is Ziggy Ansah the next great pass rusher?

The Top 5 Cornerbacks for the 2013 Draft

LSU offers scholarship to 8th grader

Matt Barkley confident he would have been drafted ahead of RGIII

Scouting Report: T.J. McDonald - Safety, LSU

Scouting Report: Tyler Wilson - Arkansas, QB

Scouting Report: David Amerson - N.C. State, CB

Scouting Report: Robert Lester - Alabama, S

Scouting Report: Da'Rick Rogers - Tennessee, WR

Scouting Report: Jarvis Jones - Georgia, OLB (3-4)

Scouting Report: Johnthan Banks - Miss State, CB

Top 5 RB prospects for 2013

Scouting Report: Keenan Allen - Cal, WR

Scouting Report: Sam Montgomery - LSU, DE

Scouting Report: Cobi Hamilton - Arkansas, WR

Is Denard Robinson an NFL caliber quarterback

Scouting Report: Robert Woods - USC, WR

Scouting Report: Terrance Williams - Baylor, WR

Scouting Report: Barkevious Mingo - LSU, DE

Video: Most Intriguing Rookie vs. Veteran Battles

Scouting Report: Utah DT, Star Lotulelei