The Pimp Your Player Thread

[BOSSHOGG30]

We all get to see some teams more than others and we all have a few players we like... this is the thread to pimp a player or few that you really like that no one really knows much about. If you have a player in mind that may be looked at as an under-rated prospect, by all means, tell us about him.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Come on Tubby tell us about this Todd Blythe guy.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Luke Dillon is a small school prospect. He is 6'4" 233 lbs.

He is a well built guy who likes contact but has above average speed. He was originally brought in to Defiance College to play tightend but worked his way out to receiver and dominated. He did play against weaker talent and it will be interesting to see if he can handle the leap to the NFL. His weakness is route running, since he didn't really do a lot of difficult route running like a lot of Division I schools.

Defiance College WR Luke Dillon worked out at Ohio State University's Pro Day Friday, March 7. Dillon ran the shuttle in 4.16 seconds and performed the three-cone drill in 6.77 seconds. He performed 17 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press. His vertical jump was 33 inches and his broad jump was nine feet and six inches. He also ran a very impressive 4.46 forty.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Andy is another small school prospect. He played at Wheaton which is a division III school, as a defensive end. He lead the nation in sacks with 17.5 in 2007. He is 6'3" 251 pounds. (this is unoffical because he hasn't had his pro-day. Many scouts think he will transition to the NFL as a outside linebacker. He has been timed in the forty at 4.47. This shows you his speed as a linebacker and for his size that is just amazing. The guy is a work out warrior and plays with a mean streak. He reminds me of a speedy Romo.

Good video on him:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzH8IKSNf70

[Hoshdude7]

Theres this guy named Johnathan Stewart I really like. Maybe you guys have heard of him. Anyways he is going to fly way under the radar.







































this is a joke

[BOSSHOGG30]

Johnston is a Division 1AA prospect. Brian Johnston of Gardner-Webb DE is listed at 6' 5" 280. 2 years running all-american, 2 years running conference defensive player of the year, and 3 years 1st team all conference.

His senior season stats are as follows 74 Total tackles 29 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 1 Forced Fumble, 12 quauter back knockdowns, 22 quauter back hurries. He finished 2nd in the nation in tackles for loss despite facing constant double teams.

His measureables are off the chart. At the 3/7/08 San Diego State Pro Day Johnston ran a 4.66 40, a 4.18, shuttle, a 6.96 3 cone, jumped a 35" vert, jumped 9' 8" long jump, and did 225 30 times.

[tubby]

Todd Blythe RULES!!

http://images.morris.com/images/cjonline/mdControlled/cms/2007/11/01/213976316.jpg

[lex]

Paul Raymond....a smallish slot type receiver who was very productive at Brown and probably runs around 4.4.

Brian Witherspoon....a smallish but lightning fast corner from Stillman.

Joe Fields....a safety converted from QB. Syracuses best tackler.

[LRtagger]

Corey Lynch - Safety - Appalachian State

Was projected to not be drafted and possibly be picked up as a FA. Did not receive a combine invite. Now his stock is rising and he is projected to be taken in the 6th round. Started all four years at App State and led the conference in INTs as a freshman and as a Senior as well. Scouts were very impressed at his pro day as he ran a sub 4sec 20 yard shuttle and posted some very other good stats.

2007: All-Southern Conference first-team selection and named the Defensive Player of the Year by the league's coaches and media…Started all fifteen games at free safety, recording a career-high 111 tackles (71 solos) with three stops for losses of 4 yards…Caused two fumbles and recovered another, as he also deflected eleven passes and led the conference with six interceptions for 114 yards in returns, including a touchdown…Blocked three kicks, advancing a blocked punt 33 yards…Had 73 passes targeted to his area, as the opposition caught 20 balls for 278 yards (13.9 avg) and a touchdown and averaged just 3.81 gross/1.86 net yards per pass attempt…Made 75 of his plays in run support, as he registered 31 third-down hits (20 vs. the pass) and eleven fourth-down stops (eight vs. the pass)…Stopped opposing ball carriers at the line of scrimmage for no gain four times and prevented opposing receivers from getting into their routes 37 times…Delivered eleven of his tackles inside the red zone, including seven on goal-line plays. 13 GP; 13 GS; 85 TT, 5 TFL, 5 INT, 6 PBU, 1 QBH, 3 BLK; 1st team All-Southern in '06. Missed time w/dislocation-fracture of elbow. Had surgery, six screws inserted. 15 GP; 15 GS; 92 TT, 1 TFL, 6 INT, 7 PBU, 1 FF in '05. 2 GP; 2 GS; 13 TT, 1 INT, 1 FF in '04. 11 GP; 11 GS; 57 TT, 1 TFL, 6 INT, 4 PBU, 2 FF; Led the SoCon in interceptions (6) as freshman in '03.

02/05/08 - Texas vs. The Nation Review: S Corey Lynch (Appalachian State)-In this game, quickly filled the hole in run support, also closed on the edge to pressure scrambling quarterback. Hustled from the opposite hash to the sideline to intercept a pass, albeit a weak one. Almost blocked a punt, which wasn't a surprise given his college career and multiple blocked field goals in practice. Also made good blocks on coverage units.

02/01/08 - Texas vs. the Nation Thursday Practice: On Wednesday's report, I was remiss in not mentioning how Corey Lynch displayed the knack for blocking punts his Appalachian State opponents feared. He blocked at least two, and could have had more if he didn't let up. He finds cracks in the interior line and wiggles through. In today's scrimmage, he proved himself able to quickly get towards the line to support the run as well as reaching the sideline to break up the deep ball.

[BOSSHOGG30]

LB, Iowa St. 6'1" 233lbs.

He ran a 4.51 on his Pro Day. I can't find a lot of articles on him but I've seen him play quite a bit, mostly in 2007. He has a none stop motor and he isn't afraid to stick his hat in there to make a tackle. I like the way he takes angles to get to the ball carrier. One thing I noticed about him that doesn't really get mentioned enough is his skills in coverage. He is probably one of the top 5 coverage linebackers in the draft.

[BOSSHOGG30]

When Chaz was healthy he reminded me of Calvin Johnson. Chaz played WR for San Diego State. Guy has off the chart measureables. It seems like very time I watch sportcenter I was seeing this guy burning somone and burning them bad. The guy is super fast. He has a very good build and size. 6'4" 208lbs.

Chaz ran the 40 in 4.38 and 4.39, had a 43-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.25 short shuttle, 6.84 cone drill, and ran position drills on his recent Pro day.

Chaz needs to work on his route running and improve concentration. I've seen him drop a few passes that he should have caught.

Chaz a poor man's Calvin?

Calvin Johnson comparison:
Johnson's forty: 4.35
Chaz's forty: 4.37

Johnson's vertical: 42.5"
Chaz's vertical: 43"

Johnson's Bench: 21
Chaz's Bench: 16

Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3w92pPUDL8

[BOSSHOGG30]

Micah Rucker played at Eastern Illinois where he transferred from Minnesota. In 2007 he was named All-OVC Conference First Team. Micah Rucker was regarded as one of the most dangerous wide receivers in the FCS level. He had 52 catches for 765 yards and 9 touchdowns while facing double team coverage most of the season.

He is 6'6" 217lbs and ran a 4.45 on his pro day.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Bobbie Williams played safety for Bethune-Cookman. He is 6' 214lbs and runs in the 4.47 range.

If you like hard hitting safeties you will love Williams. The guy plays like Steve Atwater. He runs the field very well and looks to knock you out. He has very good speed for a safety and takes good angles.

The hard-hitting Williams had 77 tackles (35 solo), four tackles for loss, four passes defended, one forced fumble and two interceptions for 41 yards.


Update for Williams:

Strengths: Shows good awareness, tracks the ball well and better range than top-end speed would suggest. Explodes out of backpedal and shows good closing burst coming forward. Reads quarterbacks' eyes, is aggressive and jumps routes. Has excellent leaping ability and can compete for jump balls. Has a mean streak and flashes the ability to deliver the big hit over the middle. Catches the ball fairly well and flashes big-play ability in coverage. Fills hard in run support and flashes the ability to make plays in the backfield. Possesses adequate size and can line up in the box. Takes adequate angles to the ball and makes plays in pursuit. Plays with a good motor and always seems to be around the ball. Wraps upon contact and is a reliable open field tackler. Takes shortest path to the quarterback and can to him quickly when asked to blitz.

Weaknesses: Takes too long to open hips, lacks the second gear to recover once caught out of position and vulnerable to getting beat deep when left on an island. Footwork is inconsistent and lacks ideal short area man-to-man cover skills. Doesn't always use hands well and cam take too long to shed blocks. Played at a small school and there is some concern about ability to make the jump to the NFL.

Overall: Williams arrived at Bethune-Cookman in 2003 and redshirted the year. In his first three seasons (2004-'06), he recorded 110 tackles (3.5 for losses), nine pass breakups, 13 interceptions and one blocked kick. He appeared in only nine of 11 games during the 2006 season. As a senior in 2007, he played in all 11 games and finished the season with 77 tackles (four for losses), two forced fumbles, three pass breakups and two interceptions. Last season he also had three punt returns for 10 yards (3.3 average) and seven kickoff returns for 132 yards (18.9 average). Williams is tough run defender and a big hitter capable of holding his own in zone coverage but he's a straight-line player who is going to have problems matching up in man coverage. In addition, he could struggle to make the transition to the NFL so he projects as a seventh round pick or rookie free agent.


* Player biographies are provided by Scouts Inc.

[honz]

BOSS, you have to be the most knowledgeable NFL prospect guy I have ever seen. Thanks for all of the info.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Green was brought in to Nebraska as a tail back but was moved to the defense to play corner and safety. He was also one of the better kick returners for Nebraska. He is a team player who hits super hard and moves very well. He is also dangerous with the ball in his possession. He is a raw prospect that will need some time to develop, but he has shown at least in Nebraska that he is a quick learner.


You can see him in this video for anyone that hasn't seen him.

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1197977w7fbZtJX

Update for Green:

J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Nebraska DB Tierre Green measured a height of 6-foot 1/2 and a weight of 208 pounds at his Pro Day. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds, the short shuttle in 4.08 seconds, the long shuttle in 11.15 seconds and the three-cone drill in 6.56 seconds. He measured a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-4 broad jump and completed 18 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press.

Scout Inc. on Green:

Strengths: A fast and athletic free safety prospect. He has some experience at cornerback and is capable of holding up one-on-one versus some slot WR's. He displays very good closing burst when the ball is in the air. Shows the range to hold up in Cover-2 and Cover-3 zones. Gives a good effort in run support. Generally takes solid angles and closes quickly when pursuing ball carriers. Overall tackling skills are solid. Has experience as a return specialist; mostly on kickoff returns. Displays sure hands and good up-field burst. Very durable player with good versatility.

Weaknesses: Lacks ideal size and strength at safety. Fills hard versus the run but he does not match up well near the line of scrimmage. Gets lost in traffic at times and needs to improve his use of hands to disengage quicker. He will occasionally get overpowered by bigger blockers and ball carriers. He has great speed but is a bit high-cut, which leads to some stiffness in his hips. WR's with elite quickness give him trouble, as he struggles to stick with double moves. Also lacks ideal ball skills in coverage. As a return specialist he's not elusive enough and he goes down too easily.

Overall: Green was redshirted in 2003. In 2004, he served as a backup running back for 11 games, carrying 44 times for 284 yards (6.5 average) and two touchdowns. He moved to cornerback in 2005 and then strong safety for 2006 appearing in 26 games, recording 94 total tackles, one interception, and six pass breakups during those two seasons. Over the course of his career (2004-'06), Green also returned 38 kickoffs for 780 yards (20.5 average). Green is a versatile safety with exceptional speed, good overall cover skills and adequate toughness versus the run. He experienced a breakout season as a first-year fulltime starter at safety in 2006 after filling in at cornerback in 2005. He also comes with extra value as a return specialist.


* Player biographies are provided by Scouts Inc.

[Lonestar]

Green was brought in to Nebraska as a tail back but was moved to the defense to play corner and safety. He was also one of the better kick returners for Nebraska. He is a team player who hits super hard and moves very well. He is also dangerous with the ball in his possession. He is a raw prospect that will need some time to develop, but he has shown at least in Nebraska that he is a quick learner.


You can see him in this video for anyone that hasn't seen him.

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1197977w7fbZtJX

Update for Green:

J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Nebraska DB Tierre Green measured a height of 6-foot 1/2 and a weight of 208 pounds at his Pro Day. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds, the short shuttle in 4.08 seconds, the long shuttle in 11.15 seconds and the three-cone drill in 6.56 seconds. He measured a 36-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-4 broad jump and completed 18 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press.


Unless he is a UDFA or taken after everyone else we need I'll pass the last converted CB we had went down as a total BUST.. He could not play there consistently high as a kite one play getting burnt n the next one.. Was a head case we did not find out about until he had caused us big grief..

[BOSSHOGG30]

I would add Casper Brinkley to this list if he could shed about 10 to 20 pounds. I think he could be a good MLB if he could do that. It should help his speed and I have no questions about his tackling and shedding block ability.

[CHARLIEADAMSFAN]

Caleb Campbell from Army
I have watched this guy play for four years at Army and let me say the kid is ALWAYS around the ball. Every play he seems to get in on the tackle and if not he is no more than two yards away from the ball. He also is very intelligent, coming from Army you have to be intelligent and also you know he will not have an ego. Yes, he tore his ACL last year but his speed is very impressive for coming back from such an injury (at least that is what I have read) The guy is a true leader and works his rear off on every play. He lacks the ideal size and speed but considering his plus side he is worth taking in the fourth or fifth round. You know you won't have problems with him

[Drill-N-Fill]

Marcus Monk WR

A good smart kid that graduated already. He tall 6'4 about 225 and could out jump most. He runs around the 4.55 range. He had 2 terrible knee surgeries that ended his season last year, but during the combine scouts have said he runs very swift and with finesse. He's a projected 5th rounder.


Tavares Gooden MLB UM

Pros: Big, athletic linebacker with the speed to make plays sideline to sideline. Versatile player who has played all three linebacker positions. A nose for the football with the knack of being around the ball carrier more often than not.

Cons: Seems to lack the physicality and tenacity to be a force in the middle at the next level. Instincts leave a lot to be desired as his pursuit angles aren't always the best. Doesn't really play downfield all that well nor does he seem to like taking on blockers.

He would be a decent pick in the 5th. He's fast, and tall at 6'2 about 138. His negatives could be coached. UM backers usually bring it.

[BOSSHOGG30]

Vabora commenced his college career in 2003 starting three games. In 2004, he started six of eleven games, making 43 tackles (32 of them unassisted). He forced three fumbles. During his junior season, he led the Western Athletic Conference with 134 tackles (101 solo), with two sacks and two forced fumbles. He was selected to the All-WAC first team. In 2007, he led his team and was fifth in the nation with an impressive average of 11.6 tackles per game.

Vabora is a very productive player in college. He has a good football frame with great speed for the position (4.51-40), but he does have room to add bulk. He is a good athlete, who moves well through traffic and can change direction quickly. He will close fast on the ball carrier and is a good zone coverage linebacker. Vabora usually takes good angles in pursuit and has demonstrated the ability to blitz consistently.

[joshxhannah]

Heres one for you. Luke Swann out of Wisconsin. Doesn't have the mesurables, and had a serious injury this year, but let me tell you what, he's got the best heart of any football player out there. Comes from a town 15 minutes from me (had to play him for 3 years in HS). Will recover from that injury and produce for someone, football is more about heart hard work and dedication than most realize. Just ask Rod Smith and Eddy mac. He'll never be a Rod Smith or a Easy E, but he could contribute in the passing game as a 3 or 4, and would be a world beater on special teams. God knows we need that.

[LRtagger]

Corey Lynch - Safety - Appalachian State

Pimping my player again. I would love to have this kid as a future safety.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMtV5oaKznI

[BOSSHOGG30]

Pimping my player again. I would love to have this kid as a future safety.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMtV5oaKznI

He shows really good technique.... I like what I see.

[haroldthebarrel]

I like Markus Monk as well. That type of players who you know will at least be a special teams ace gets overlooked too often. And when he does get a shot he either plays pretty decent or even never looks back.

The numbers of small school receiver really shows how great this class of receivers are.
No Calvin Johnsons, but plenty of people who should be 1000 yard receivers.

That Chaz dude got me thinking of Colston in that he is a physical talent who just all of a sudden might get it!

I havent yet studied all the small school players but I really liked what I heard and the little I saw of Heath Benedict.
That he died was really tragic.
I really love what I have seen from Ray Rice but he isnt exactly an unknown. Same with James Hardy.
If Josh Johnson was there in the fourth I would take him in a second because he is a way better prospect than Garrard was coming out. He is the type of player that could easily yield a first rounder if not more in two three years.
I might even take him in the third round had we had a pick there. He has easiely the most upside of any qb in the draft, though that wont mean much as there are thousands ways to how a quarterback might become good or great.

[LRtagger]

He shows really good technique.... I like what I see.

He tackles a little high which would kill him in the NFL, but he has good speed and instincts. He never gets beat on play-actions, but he always seems to get to the LOS on running plays. Most safeties you see can either read the run very well or read the pass very well, but he does both very well.

He should be available in the 6th or 7th, but I just dont think we will look at a safety in this draft.

[BOSSHOGG30]

He tackles a little high which would kill him in the NFL, but he has good speed and instincts. He never gets beat on play-actions, but he always seems to get to the LOS on running plays. Most safeties you see can either read the run very well or read the pass very well, but he does both very well.

He should be available in the 6th or 7th, but I just dont think we will look at a safety in this draft.

Denver still needs that cover guy... we have plenty of hard hitting safeties. Unless Rogers gets back to form we don't really have a true FS. I'm still curious why Denver hasn't tried Paymah at FS but they are more than willing to put Foxworth there. Usually safeties are known to have lesser hip movement of that of cornerback and are usually bigger guys. Paymah fits that role. He has a nice frame, a willing tackler, and good speed, especially for a safety.

[haroldthebarrel]

Denver still needs that cover guy... we have plenty of hard hitting safeties. Unless Rogers gets back to form we don't really have a true FS. I'm still curious why Denver hasn't tried Paymah at FS but they are more than willing to put Foxworth there. Usually safeties are known to have lesser hip movement of that of cornerback and are usually bigger guys. Paymah fits that role. He has a nice frame, a willing tackler, and good speed, especially for a safety.

Paymah really struggles to play zone. He was one of the players who shined in last years system that had a lot of man coverage.
It hasnt been a good example putting Foxworth in there. That is a little typical shahan in putting the best overall players on the field even though it many times would have been better to put players at their natural positions even though they arent as naturally talented.

Are there any good coverage safeties in this draft? How about the middle rounds? I dont like Phillips as he reminds me of a Kennedy with a little more speed. He doesnt make the plays in coverage like his former Hurricanes safeties did in college.

[joshxhannah]

Paymah really struggles to play zone. He was one of the players who shined in last years system that had a lot of man coverage.
It hasnt been a good example putting Foxworth in there. That is a little typical shahan in putting the best overall players on the field even though it many times would have been better to put players at their natural positions even though they arent as naturally talented.

Are there any good coverage safeties in this draft? How about the middle rounds? I dont like Phillips as he reminds me of a Kennedy with a little more speed. He doesnt make the plays in coverage like his former Hurricanes safeties did in college.

It's a weak weak saftey class. Josh Barrett from arizona state that ran a 4.35 peaked my intrest, but he was benched at one point for poor play... so who knows.

[broncohead]

I think the RB from USC could surprise. Cauncey Washington 5-11 3/8 and weighed in at his pro day at 218 I think. Runs a mid 4.4 40. Worth a 5th or 6th depending whos left at RB.

[CHARLIEADAMSFAN]

Caleb Campbell from Army
I have watched this guy play for four years at Army and let me say the kid is ALWAYS around the ball. Every play he seems to get in on the tackle and if not he is no more than two yards away from the ball. He also is very intelligent, coming from Army you have to be intelligent and also you know he will not have an ego. Yes, he tore his ACL last year but his speed is very impressive for coming back from such an injury (at least that is what I have read) The guy is a true leader and works his rear off on every play. He lacks the ideal size and speed but considering his plus side he is worth taking in the fourth or fifth round. You know you won't have problems with him

http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=55391

[Broncospsycho77]

The quarterback from Appalachian St (can't remember his name) is considering playing as a wide receiver in the draft. Take him late, put him on the punt return squad, maybe a screen pass or two every game... just the type of unpredictable weapon that is becoming popular in today's game.

[BOSSHOGG30]

The quarterback from Appalachian St (can't remember his name) is considering playing as a wide receiver in the draft. Take him late, put him on the punt return squad, maybe a screen pass or two every game... just the type of unpredictable weapon that is becoming popular in today's game.

Armanti Edwards?

[Broncospsycho77]

Armanti Edwards?

Yeah, I think so... maybe it was another guy.

EDIT: Looks like this guy is only a sophomore... maybe I'm thinking of someone else?

[BOSSHOGG30]

Yeah, I think so... maybe it was another guy.

I think this is the guy you are talking about.. he ran for a lot of yards and shows flashes of brilliance... problem is I don't think he is coming out this year... but I could be wrong. Overall he is very Randle El like

[DenBronx]

The quarterback from Appalachian St (can't remember his name) is considering playing as a wide receiver in the draft. Take him late, put him on the punt return squad, maybe a screen pass or two every game... just the type of unpredictable weapon that is becoming popular in today's game.


the unpredictable weapon has been popular since the kordell "slash" stewart days in the 90's. not really anything new.

[Broncospsycho77]

the unpredictable weapon has been popular since the kordell "slash" stewart days in the 90's. not really anything new.

Well, I'm more referring to it in the past few years with the uprisings of the Reggie Bush, Devin Hester, Darren McFadden guy who can attack from both offensive and special teams perspectives, not necessarily from the quarterback position.

I do realize that there have been many crashes from these crossovers (Eric Crouch, anyone?) that have failed, but these kinds of players are starting to rise back up to the point that every team will be after one.

[DenBronx]

Well, I'm more referring to it in the past few years with the uprisings of the Reggie Bush, Devin Hester, Darren McFadden guy who can attack from both offensive and special teams perspectives, not necessarily from the quarterback position.

I do realize that there have been many crashes from these crossovers (Eric Crouch, anyone?) that have failed, but these kinds of players are starting to rise back up to the point that every team will be after one.

id like us to target a wr or rb that can also return kickoffs/punts or a kicker that can actually kick off too. im tired of us drafting specialty players. it eats up roster and cap space.

[BOSSHOGG30]

id like us to target a wr or rb that can also return kickoffs/punts or a kicker that can actually kick off too. im tired of us drafting specialty players. it eats up roster and cap space.

There is a guy named Jonathan Stewart who says he wants to play for the Broncos and that he likes to return kicks and do anything he can to help the team win.

Chris Johnson is another guy who could give us a good back who is even more dangerous as a return weapon.

[Broncospsycho77]

Here's the guy I was looking for: Dexter Jackson, WR App. State.

Ran a 4.33 40 yd dash at the combine, showed to be really explosive, played as punt returner for App State, but has returned kickoffs... however, he is only 5' 10" and fumbled 3 times as a returner last year (1 lost)... First Team all-Southern Conference... Projected 3rd to 4th round.

[Lonestar]

http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=55391

yet would he be able to play over the next 4-6 years he should have a commitment to be in the Army..

[wandlc]

The Academy athletes have their commitment dropped if the are drafted and make a professional team. The athlete just does recruiting type PR stuff. This was instituted a couple of years ago. The military figures they get more value from letting the athletes compete professionally.

[Drill-N-Fill]

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b308/Mateen2724/Vernon_Gholston.jpg

[Lonestar]

The Academy athletes have their commitment dropped if the are drafted and make a professional team. The athlete just does recruiting type PR stuff. This was instituted a couple of years ago. The military figures they get more value from letting the athletes compete professionally.

Thanks was not aware of that.. Makes sense as it allows players some hope they can move on and it does not shut the better athletes out of the service academies..

[Ziggy]

The Academy athletes have their commitment dropped if the are drafted and make a professional team. The athlete just does recruiting type PR stuff. This was instituted a couple of years ago. The military figures they get more value from letting the athletes compete professionally.

I thought that they still had thier commitment, but they could do their time as a recruiter in the city that they were playing in. Are you sure that the committment is dropped? I thought they were technically still in the military at the same time.

[Ziggy]

Never mind. I found the answer myself. If drafted, they are put into the reserves. So technically they still have a commitment, but not to active duty.

[Bronco4ever]

Danny Woodhead, RB, Chadron State

Woodhead who is the all time leading rusher in NCAA history did not receive a invite to the NFL combine so he had to use his pro day to show off his abilities. According to a report on nfldraftwatch.net Danny Woodhead ran the 40-yard dash in a time of 4.33 to 4.38 seconds which would have been the second-fastest among all running backs at the NFL Combine last month. He posted the best pro-agility time of :04.03, the second-best vertical jump (38½ inches) and the best 60-yard shuttle time (:11.2). He also bench-pressed 225 pounds 20 times.

-NCAA all time leading rusher with 7,871 yards
-6th most all purpose yards in NCAA with 8,792 yards
-2 time Harlon Trophy award winner (best DII player)
-His rushing yards for 2006 were 2,756 yards (NCAA record)
-Career average of 190.8 yards per game

[Ziggy]

You left out 2 minor details on this kid:

1. 5'7"
2. 197 pounds

I'll be interested to see if he can make it in the NFL. The athletic ability seems to be there, but that size will hurt him in the big leagues.

[MOtorboat]

Danny Woodhead, RB, Chadron State

Woodhead who is the all time leading rusher in NCAA history did not receive a invite to the NFL combine so he had to use his pro day to show off his abilities. According to a report on nfldraftwatch.net Danny Woodhead ran the 40-yard dash in a time of 4.33 to 4.38 seconds which would have been the second-fastest among all running backs at the NFL Combine last month. He posted the best pro-agility time of :04.03, the second-best vertical jump (38½ inches) and the best 60-yard shuttle time (:11.2). He also bench-pressed 225 pounds 20 times.

-NCAA all time leading rusher with 7,871 yards
-6th most all purpose yards in NCAA with 8,792 yards
-2 time Harlon Trophy award winner (best DII player)
-His rushing yards for 2006 were 2,756 yards (NCAA record)
-Career average of 190.8 yards per game

That's my player to pimp :2thumbs:

[BOSSHOGG30]

You left out 2 minor details on this kid:

1. 5'7"
2. 197 pounds

I'll be interested to see if he can make it in the NFL. The athletic ability seems to be there, but that size will hurt him in the big leagues.

Sproles?

[Ziggy]

Sproles?

I hadn't thought about it, but nice comparison Boss. I think this kid might end up being a return specialist and 3rd or 4th back in the NFL.

[MOtorboat]

I hadn't thought about it, but nice comparison Boss. I think this kid might end up being a return specialist and 3rd or 4th back in the NFL.

Well, the problem is he never has been a return-man, ever. In fact, I believe he wasn't even one in high school. His brother, Ben, was a returnman in high school I believe, but he's two years older, so there's a possibility that he returned kicks after Ben left North Platte. But, Danny came right in to Chadron and started right away. It was too much of a commodity for Smith to let him return kick offs. Eric Barker and Brady Hollaway were returning kicks that year. (Boy it would have been nice to see Marvin Jackson and Danny Woodhead on the same team returning kicks...)

[Bronco4ever]

Well, the problem is he never has been a return-man, ever. In fact, I believe he wasn't even one in high school. His brother, Ben, was a returnman in high school I believe, but he's two years older, so there's a possibility that he returned kicks after Ben left North Platte. But, Danny came right in to Chadron and started right away. It was too much of a commodity for Smith to let him return kick offs. Eric Barker and Brady Hollaway were returning kicks that year. (Boy it would have been nice to see Marvin Jackson and Danny Woodhead on the same team returning kicks...)

I remember Eric Barker from high school. Our schools played each other and were big rivals. He's sort of a tool, but he was a decent athlete.

As for Woodhead, he has lined up as a returner a few times, but teams never kicked his way. It would be really interesting to see how he would do if given the chance to take a few kicks.

[shank]

cough garrett wolfe in the 3rd cough


i think there is a place for guys like this in the nfl (or at least here in denver doublecough quentin supercough). you can't argue with his production, even in dii. if we brought him in as a udfa (which everything i can find predicts he will be) then i can see him having some success (ala hall, selvin, change of pace).

so far everyone has convinced me on all these guys lol. we need to cut some guys to make room for all these udfas!

[MOtorboat]

cough garrett wolfe in the 3rd cough


i think there is a place for guys like this in the nfl (or at least here in denver doublecough quentin supercough). you can't argue with his production, even in dii. if we brought him in as a udfa (which everything i can find predicts he will be) then i can see him having some success (ala hall, selvin, change of pace).

so far everyone has convinced me on all these guys lol. we need to cut some guys to make room for all these udfas!

Well, he did run all over the RMAC, and as cswil will point out to you, if given the chance, they are kind of the red-headed step child of DII.

[str8jacket]

Jordon Dizon
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a369/str8jacket01/JordonDizon.jpg
Analysis

Positives: Off-the-charts motor, intangibles and leadership. ... Instinctive football player who reads and reacts very quickly. ... Plays faster than timed speed indicates because of instincts. ... Reliably makes the open-field tackle. ... Should be a fantastic special teams contributor on all units. ... Plays through injuries.

Negatives: Lacks prototypical size for a starting NFL linebacker. ... Finding a position will be difficult as he does not have the strength to take on and shed pro offensive linemen in the middle and is not the elite athlete with the size and speed needed to chase down backs in the open field or staying with top receivers or tight ends. ... Not the most explosive tackler, which can hurt him against larger, quicker backs. ... Gets lost in traffic and lacks recovery speed.


Terrence Wheatley
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a369/str8jacket01/489801.jpg

Analysis

Positives: Has a lean, but defined frame that can carry at least another 10 pounds of bulk with no loss in quickness...Shows good thickness in his thighs and calves and a toned upper-body torso with surprising power for a player his size...Builds to top speed in a hurry and shows explosive acceleration throughout his running stride...Has the closing burst to instantly make plays in front of him...His second gear is evident by the way he simply races past opponents on kickoff returns...Has very loose hips to redirect and is fluid changing direction...Never takes false steps in transition and shows very good balance on the move...Fearless in run support, closing on the play and pursuing the ballcarriers with good form to push the running game back inside from the perimeter...Has a keen understanding of the playbook, but will still spend time dissecting plays to discover ways to improve his technique...With his wrist surgeries behind him, he is showing much better power behind his tackling form (see 2007 Colorado State and Oklahoma games), doing a good job of wrapping and driving with his strong legs to rock the opponent back... Has made good strides in run support, knowing how to keep his pads low and attack the outside leg to impede the running back's forward progress...Hard worker in the training room who also puts in extra hours studying game films...Type of athlete that performs best against top-level competition, as he loves the challenge...Dependable field leader who will spend extra time mentoring the younger players (has a bit of Troy Vincent in him, as he tries to understand the assignments of every position)...Could possibly make a good coaching candidate one day due to his grasp of the playbook...Quick to read and react to the ball in flight and shows good confidence in his hand extension and timing on his leaps to get to the ball at its high point...Has the loose hips to quickly get back into the action on the rare times he over-pursues...Has the hand placement and mirror ability to stay tight on the receiver during deep routes...Has an explosive closing burst, doing a good job of keeping the action in front of him...Even with his timed speed, he does not get overconfident and give his opponent a large cushion, preferring to stay tight on his man throughout the route's progression...Demonstrates the body control to accelerate and adjust to the ball in flight...Can play off the ball, knowing he has the timed speed to close on the play...Maintains good relationship with the receiver and when he does eye the backfield, he is smart enough not to bite on play action...Has excellent range to make plays across the field...Very aggressive when combating for jump balls and will not hesitate to sacrifice his body and extend for the ball in a crowd...Shows good patience returning kickoffs, but is sudden when he spots the crease...Catches the ball naturally with his hands with the ability to secure the ball outside his frame...Lowers his pads and hits the opponent with a thud...More of a low-cut tackler, but has good wrap-up form.

Negatives: Will need to add more bulk to his frame to compete at the next level...Is fully recovered now, but has had several surgeries that eventually led to a fusion in his right wrist...Has a good understanding of the playbook, but just gets by academically (will not have a problem grasping the mental aspect of the game)...Plays with good field vision, but did lose focus at times as a junior (showed marked improvement in maintaining concentration as a senior)...Does not need to throttle down coming out of his breaks, but will round his cuts at times and needs to be more crisp when planting and driving...Generally gets good position to make the wrap tackle, but when he takes a side, he lacks the raw power to latch on and drag his opponent down.

Compares To: ELLIS HOBBS-New England...Like Hobbs, Wheatley is a solid shutdown cornerback, thanks to outstanding timed speed and a good understanding of route progression. He is fully recovered from wrist problems that hampered him earlier in his career and showed much better tackling form and power behind his hits as a senior. He has excellent timing and leaping ability competing for the ball in flight and brings added value as a kickoff returner. He makes good adjustments on the move and is an efficient cut tackler who knows how to lower and drive with his shoulder to take the blockers out of action. He will need to continue adding bulk to his frame, but that should not impact his exceptional acceleration. Like Hobbs, he is smart enough to play a variety of roles in the secondary and his versatility will be a plus earlier in his pro career.

Tyler Polumbus
Analysis

Positives: Rare height with an underdeveloped upper and lower body that could easily handle another 25 pounds without a significant loss of quickness. ... Good initial quickness off the snap. ... Eases out of his stance and has good lateral agility to mirror the pass rusher. ... Flashes good hand placement and improved in this area as a senior. ... Patient, intelligent wall-off blocker in the running game who understands he doesn't have to physically manhandle his opponent to effectively shield him from the ball.

Negatives: Despite his great size, Polumbus relies much more on his quickness than physicality. ... Bends too much at the waist, losing leverage and power to smaller defenders. ... Can get walked back to the quarterback. ... Lacks explosive use of hands. ... Struggles to sustain blocks. ... More of a wall-off run blocker than the dominant drive blocker his size and relative athleticism would indicate.

[Ziggy]

AHTYBA RUBIN - DT- Iowa State 6'3" 320 pounds 225lb. Bench press-35 reps

Overview
Teams looking for a diamond in the rough for a run-stuffing presence would be wise to take a close look at Rubin.

Rubin transferred to Iowa State following a successful tour of duty at Trinity Valley Community College, where he was used as both a defensive tackle and offensive guard. Once at Iowa State, Rubin was moved to nose guard and paid immediate dividends, starting nine games and registering 34 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, and 1.0 sack despite not joining the team until August (2006).

Rubin's statistical improvement his senior season was minimal (42 tackles, 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks), but his impact on the Iowa State defense was not. With a build like a coke machine, Rubin is tough to move off the line of scrimmage, providing play-making opportunities for the defenders around him.

Positives: Versatile athlete who has seen starting action along both the offensive and defensive lines. ... Short, squatty powerful body with good strength and lateral agility. ... Made an immediate impact as a run-stuffing nose guard for Iowa State after signing as a JUCO. ... Good strength at the point of attack. ... Uses his hands well to battle offensive linemen and flashes the ability to split the double-team and make the play on his own. ... Good lateral agility. ... Can locate the ball and fights to make the play. ... Pursues well for a man his size. ... Plays to the whistle. ... Immediately proved capable of playing at the Big 12 level upon signing with Iowa State and has made significant improvement over his two years at this level.


Looks to be taken in the 4th round or so. This kid would bring instant runstuffing capabilities to this defensive line, and would probably be pulled on passing downs. He reminds me a lot of Keith Traylor. Not at all flashy, but you need a tanker to move him off the line of scrimage. He can occupy 2 blockers on run downs, and clog up the middle to free the linebackers to make tackles. Is he a one-dimensional D-lineman? Yes, but he brings the dimension we need in a defensive tackle. I don't know if he will ever generate a pass rush, but let's stop the run first. A 4th round gem! Any takers?

[Ziggy]

No takers for Rubin? Cmon guys. Anyone wanna stop the run?

[haroldthebarrel]

No takers for Rubin? Cmon guys. Anyone wanna stop the run?

Id be extatic if we got him in the fourth or fifth round if that answer your question:)

He seems very underrated at the moment.

[tubby]

http://www.nfldraftdog.com/2008_nfl_draft/todd_blythe_iowa_state.jpg

[Rex]

http://www.nfldraftdog.com/2008_nfl_draft/todd_blythe_iowa_state.jpg

He wishes he was Jordy Nelson.

[tubby]

He wishes he was Jordy Nelson.

He wishes he played with Freeman.

[Buff]

cswil-- Is K-State your college football team?

[BOSSHOGG30]

cswil-- Is K-State your college football team?

Only if they are winning:D

[BOSSHOGG30]

Broncos have looked at 4 of my sleepers so far :D

Wonder if they will actually draft one?

[LRtagger]

How did everyone's sleepers do?

Dexter Jackson was selected in the late 2nd (58) by Tampa Bay

Corey Lynch was selected in the early 6th (177) by Cincinnati

[shank]

saw chaz, pierre, and studebaker get picked. really wanted studebaker!

i think luke dillon is still out there boss.

[str8jacket]

2 Sleepers went in 2nd round, and 1 inUDFA.

Woot