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CanesSkins26
Canes Skin
Joined: 13 Aug 2007
Posts: 6870
Location: Alexandria, VA
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| Posted: Wed Feb 20, 2008 11:15 pm Post subject: Defensive Line Looms Large in Draft Plans |
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| Quote: | By Jason La Canfora
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, February 21, 2008; Page E03
The last time the Washington Redskins selected two defensive linemen in the first three rounds of the draft was 1984. Many of the prospects in this year's draft weren't born then, but with newly promoted defensive coordinator Greg Blache looking to bolster the line, team sources said, the Redskins could fill needs at tackle and end on the draft's first day in April.
The Redskins hold the 21st pick, which complicates matters because so many teams will pick ahead of Washington. But as the club's coaches and scouts headed to Indianapolis for the start of the annual scouting combine at the RCA Dome today, defensive line is an area garnering heavy attention.
This is Jim Zorn's first combine as a head coach, and Vinny Cerrato's first as Washington's executive vice president, and the team will seek to accomplish much more than merely draft preparations. Also on the to-do list are meetings with player representatives as free agency approaches. More salary cap relief still is needed from a handful of contracts.
Much could change between now and April 26, when the draft begins, with trades and signings. But Blache's preference would be to address concerns at tackle and end through the draft, league and team sources said, as he favors players he can incorporate into his system. The Redskins former defensive line coach also traditionally has shunned big-name linemen in free agency.
Two of Washington's regular starting linemen since 2004, end Phillip Daniels and tackle Cornelius Griffin, could be gone a year from now. The Redskins began overhauling an aging and sack-starved line a year ago by parting with veterans Renaldo Wynn and Joe Salave'a.
When the defensive coaches met at the end of the season, they agreed they faced three glaring needs, sources said: a bruising tackle big enough to play the run yet nimble enough to create havoc in the backfield, much like Griffin did in his standout season of 2004; an end with pass-rushing acumen to complement Andre Carter; and a cornerback to bolster depth.
There figures to be much company in the pursuit of young linemen, however, with the New York Giants' run to a Super Bowl title proving an elite rotation of six defensive linemen could overcome a lack of star power at linebacker and a porous secondary.
The Redskins have not used a first-round pick on a defensive lineman since 1997 when they took end Kenard Lang 17th overall out of Miami. Lang is the only defensive lineman the club has selected in the first round since 1992. The last defensive lineman drafted by the Redskins in the top three rounds to make a significant impact with the team was Charles Mann in 1983 (third round).
Depth has been available in later rounds in recent years. Anthony Montgomery (fifth round) and Kedric Golston (sixth round) have shown the ability to play at the professional level since being taken in 2006. Montgomery became a starter last season, and Golston is a valuable reserve and special-teams standout.
Pairing them regularly could be problematic, and finding a blue-chip prospect to replace Griffin, injury-plagued much of his time in Washington, is imperative. Daniels, who is slowing but still boasts tremendous upper-body strength, could play even more at tackle this season, and besides Carter, reserve end Demetric Evans is the only other proven end on the roster. Speed-rusher Chris Wilson emerged from CFL obscurity to have a fine rookie season but must add size, strength and considerable polish to his game.
The Redskins could address tackle or end in free agency, but most of the best players available were given franchise designations by their teams and can't be acquired without considerable draft-pick compensation in return. Still, there will be some recognizable players on the market.
Blache, when working with former assistant head coach-defense Gregg Williams the past four years, put a premium on acquiring teachable players. Last season, for instance, owner Daniel Snyder and Cerrato were enamored with several veteran linemen who became available -- Simeon Rice, Sam Adams and Corey Simon, in particular. But Blache and Williams staunchly resisted acquiring those players, with age, work habits and/or selfishness an issue (none of the bunch came close to being productive in 2007).
The hiring of John Palermo as Blache's replacement as defensive line coach could point to a continued youth movement as well. Palermo spent 29 years coaching in college, but has no pro experience (he is friends with Cerrato from their time together at Notre Dame). Palermo has ties to one lineman projected in the first round of this draft from his time at Miami -- end Calais Campbell. The Redskins have loaded up on Miami players via the draft and trades in recent years.
The highest-rated linemen, like Virginia end Chris Long, son of Hall of Famer Howie Long, and LSU tackle Glenn Dorsey, will be gone in the top five picks, most likely, while a run of line talent could occur in the top half of the draft, leaving the Redskins to ponder trading up or selecting whomever they deem the best choice at No. 21. |
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yupchagee
#14
Joined: 19 Apr 2006
Posts: 4113
Location: Louisville KY
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| Posted: Thu Feb 21, 2008 8:06 pm Post subject: |
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| This draft is deep in DE's but not DT's from what I have read. I doubt there will be a DT available worth a 1st round pick when our turn comes. If Campbell is available, I think he would be a good choice. |
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frankcal20
^^^^^^^
Joined: 24 Mar 2004
Posts: 8965
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| Posted: Thu Feb 21, 2008 8:24 pm Post subject: |
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| Look at NC State's Demario Presseley. He may not be a 1st round name but he's a 1st round motor. |
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VetSkinsFan
One Step Away
Joined: 19 Jul 2007
Posts: 7779
Location: NoVA
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| Posted: Fri Feb 22, 2008 7:42 am Post subject: |
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| We need ONE dominant DT, where we get him I really don't care. If we draft, that's cool, if we get one via FA, that's cool, too, as long as he's not over 30. A dominant DT would make the whole D-Line 2x better. Carter would probably have a career year if we had some talent with our interior D-Line. |
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SkinsFreak
Fire in the Sky
Joined: 27 Dec 2005
Posts: 4884
Location: Surfside
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| Posted: Fri Feb 22, 2008 8:31 am Post subject: |
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| VetSkinsFan wrote: | | We need ONE dominant DT, where we get him I really don't care. If we draft, that's cool, if we get one via FA, that's cool, too, as long as he's not over 30. A dominant DT would make the whole D-Line 2x better. Carter would probably have a career year if we had some talent with our interior D-Line. |
Absolutely agree with that. A dominant DT bull rushing up the middle would force the opposing RB to help block him, in effect, opening up lanes on the edge. |
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yupchagee
#14
Joined: 19 Apr 2006
Posts: 4113
Location: Louisville KY
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| Posted: Fri Feb 22, 2008 2:53 pm Post subject: |
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| SkinsFreak wrote: | | VetSkinsFan wrote: | | We need ONE dominant DT, where we get him I really don't care. If we draft, that's cool, if we get one via FA, that's cool, too, as long as he's not over 30. A dominant DT would make the whole D-Line 2x better. Carter would probably have a career year if we had some talent with our interior D-Line. |
Absolutely agree with that. A dominant DT bull rushing up the middle would force the opposing RB to help block him, in effect, opening up lanes on the edge. |
Also keep QB's from stepping up into the pocket. |
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HEROHAMO
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Joined: 20 Oct 2004
Posts: 4027
Location: SANTA ANA,CA
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| Posted: Fri Feb 22, 2008 5:03 pm Post subject: |
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1. Glenn Dorsey, LSU
Height: 6-2. Weight: 299.
40 Time: 5.12.
Projected Round: Top 3 Pick.
Glenn Dorsey has established himself as the premier defender in college football, capable of dominating the line of scrimmage every single week. He'll be one of the first three players taken in the 2008 NFL Draft. A strong, quick defensive tackle that can play in just about every scheme. Glenn Dorsey would have been a top-10 pick in the 2007 Draft.
2. Sedrick Ellis, USC (1/27)
Height: 6-1. Weight: 308.
40 Time: 4.83.
Projected Round: Top 3 Pick.
Sedrick Ellis was a man amongst boys at the Senior Bowl, effortlessly pushing the opposing offensive line around as if they were small children. Ellis was simply unblockable. It wouldn't surprise me if the Dolphins or Rams took him first or second.
Sedrick Ellis has dominated the Senior Bowl practices and has established himself as a top-five pick.
A very quick defensive tackle who loves getting to the quarterback. Had 4.5 sacks in each of the previous two seasons.
3. Pat Sims, Auburn (11/17)
Height: 6-4. Weight: 316.
40 Time: 4.92.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Pat Sims has declared for the 2008 NFL Draft.
Any 315-pound defensive tackle who runs close to a 4.8 will get drafted. Sims didn't start any games as a freshman or a sophomore, but has really established himself as a dominant force this year.
4. Kentwan Balmer, North Carolina (12/
Height: 6-4. Weight: 308.
40 Time: 4.96.
Projected Round: Top 25 Pick.
Kentwan Balmer has emerged as one of the top tacklers in college football. Perfect for either the 3-4 or 4-3.
Started just eight games in 2006.
5. Red Bryant, Texas A&M
Height: 6-4. Weight: 326.
40 Time: 5.08.
Projected Round: 2.
Red Bryant, the top nose tackle on the board, had knee surgery in November. He'll need to prove he can play at 100 percent if he wants to get drafted in the first round.
6. Dre Moore, Maryland (9/14)
Height: 6-4. Weight: 307.
40 Time: 4.82.
Projected Round: 2.
Dre Moore played out of his mind against West Virginia. Steve Slaton simply couldn't run in Moore's direction, as the senior defensive tackle was in the Mountaineers' backfield the majority of the plays. He really improved his draft stock.
That 4.82 is not a misprint. Moore, who excels at stopping the run and getting to the quarterback, is a workout warrior. He'll bench 225 pounds at least 30 times. He has also notched a 34-inch vertical in the past. An expected, excellent combine may get Moore into the first round.
7. Trevor Laws, Notre Dame (1/27)
Height: 6-0. Weight: 297.
40 Time: 4.98.
Projected Round: 2.
If it weren't for Sedrick Ellis, Trevor Laws might have shined as the most impressive defensive lineman at the Senior Bowl.
Laws has been one of the few solid defenders for Notre Dame this season.
We'll have to see how Trevor Laws plays without Derek Landri and Victor Abiamiri by his side.
8. DeMario Pressley, N.C. State (9/10)
Height: 6-3. Weight: 300.
40 Time: 4.99.
Projected Round: 2-3.
DeMario Pressley will have knee surgery and could miss the entire 2007 season.
Will teams be afraid to take an N.C. State defensive lineman in the wake of several Wolfpack players flopping in the NFL? One thing that scares me about DeMario Pressley is his inconsistency. One game he's a beast; the next he's nowhere to be seen.
9. Marcus Harrison, Arkansas
Height: 6-2. Weight: 310.
40 Time: 4.98.
Projected Round: 3.
A 310-pound defensive tackle who can run a sub-5.0 40? Think scouts will drool all over him? Marcus Harrison missed tons of time with a knee injury, so that'll be a concern.
10. Ahtyba Rubin, Iowa State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 320.
40 Time: 5.18.
Projected Round: 3.
A massive nose tackle who could be sought after by teams running a 3-4 defense in the third round.
11. Letroy Guion, Florida State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 295.
40 Time: 5.11.
Projected Round: 3.
A talented player who got some fame when Mike Mayock made him his No. 4 defensive tackle. Letroy Guion does have character issues, however, as he was kept out of Florida State's postseason exhibition match a few months ago.
12. Frank Okam, Texas
Height: 6-5. Weight: 320.
40 Time: 5.00.
Projected Round: 3-4.
Frank Okam's bread and butter is his ability to stop the run, but don't take that to mean he's a one-dimensional defensive tackle.
13. Nick Hayden, Wisconsin
Height: 6-5. Weight: 300.
40 Time: 5.06.
Projected Round: 4.
Pretty much a traditional 4-3 defensive tackle who will act as depth for the team that drafts him.
14. Kendall Langford, Hampton
Height: 6-5. Weight: 275.
40 Time: 4.92.
Projected Round: 4.
Recorded eight sacks in 2006. Can play defensive end in a 3-4 as well.
15. James McClinton, Kansas
Height: 6-0. Weight: 290.
40 Time: 4.85.
Projected Round: 4.
A solid cover-2 defensive tackle who can rush the passer. Second-team All-American in 2007.
16. Frank Morton, Tulane
Height: 6-3. Weight: 327.
40 Time: 5.25.
Projected Round: 4-5.
A huge nose tackle who collected four sacks in 2006.
Sports Tickets
17. Carlton Powell, Virginia Tech (10/4)
Height: 6-2. Weight: 294.
40 Time: 4.93.
Projected Round: 5.
Carlton Powell was benched in mid-September.
Started every game in 2006, recording 2.5 sacks. Will fit well into a cover-2 scheme.
18. Barry Booker, Virginia Tech
Height: 6-4. Weight: 280.
40 Time: 4.89.
Projected Round: 5.
Played well as a first-year starter. His speed makes him a candidate for the cover-2.
19. Lionel Dotson, Arizona
Height: 6-4. Weight: 288.
40 Time: 4.97.
Projected Round: 5.
Injury-prone; Lionel Dotson suffered a leg injury last year and a shoulder injury this spring.
20. Keilen Dykes, West Virginia (9/14)
Height: 6-5. Weight: 295.
40 Time: 4.92.
Projected Round: 5-6.
Not a good showing for Keilen Dykes on national TV, as Maryland's offensive line pushed West Virginia's defensive front around all night.
Pretty versatile; can play end or tackle in the 4-3, or end in the 3-4. Dykes is probably more effective in the former scheme, as he can get to the quarterback.
21. Maurice Murray, New Mexico State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 310.
40 Time: 4.92.
Projected Round: 5-6.
Raw - transferred over from a junior college after the 2004 season.
22. Chris Norwell, Illinois
Height: 6-6. Weight: 290.
40 Time: 5.04.
Projected Round: 6.
Chris Norwell can play defensive tackle in the 4-3 or end in the 3-4, much like Keilen Dykes. Unlike Dykes, however, end in the 4-3 is not an option.
23. Steven Coleman, Oklahoma
Height: 6-4. Weight: 299.
40 Time: 5.05.
Projected Round: 6.
As a first-year starter, was in the opening lineup for 12 of 14 games.
24. Andre Fluellen, Florida State
Height: 6-1. Weight: 285.
40 Time: 4.90.
Projected Round: 6.
Should be able to be an effective tackle in a cover-2 system. He could make some noise if he runs a 4.8.
25. Jason Shirley, Fresno State
Height: 6-5. Weight: 330.
40 Time: 4.98.
Projected Round: 6.
A monstrous nose tackle who runs a sub-five 40? Are we recording this? Is this thing on?
26. J.T. Mapu, Tennessee
Height: 6-4. Weight: 290.
40 Time: 5.08.
Projected Round: 7.
Inexperienced; stepping in for Justin Harrell this season.
27. Kurt Hout, Ferris State
Height: 6-1. Weight: 280.
40 Time: 4.82.
Projected Round: 7.
Transferred from Northern Colorado to Ferris State, wherever that is. Guess Kurt Hout likes the spotlight.
28. Ropati Pitoitua, Washington State
Height: 6-8. Weight: 291.
40 Time: 5.18.
Projected Round: 7.
Was cited for DUI and arrested within the past two years. On the bright side, he's 6-8, so he'll bat down a lot of passes.
29. Keith Shologan, Central Florida
Height: 6-2. Weight: 290.
40 Time: 4.98.
Projected Round: FA.
Started 33 games the past three years.
30. Tony Jenkins, Syracuse
Height: 6-3. Weight: 288.
40 Time: 4.96.
Projected Round: FA.
Another cover-2 prospect.
31. Sean Merrill, Southern Miss
Height: 6-3. Weight: 294.
40 Time: 5.18.
Projected Round: FA.
Transferred over from LSU. Tore his chest and missed practice this spring. |
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SkinsFreak
Fire in the Sky
Joined: 27 Dec 2005
Posts: 4884
Location: Surfside
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| Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2008 4:46 pm Post subject: |
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I like this guy as a 2nd or a 3rd round pick. Any opinions on him?
Dre Moore, DT - Maryland
Height: 6-4. Weight: 307.
40 Time: 4.82.
Projected Round: 2.
Dre Moore played out of his mind against West Virginia. Steve Slaton simply couldn't run in Moore's direction, as the senior defensive tackle was in the Mountaineers' backfield the majority of the plays. He really improved his draft stock.
That 4.82 is not a misprint. Moore, who excels at stopping the run and getting to the quarterback, is a workout warrior. He'll bench 225 pounds at least 30 times. He has also notched a 34-inch vertical in the past. An expected, excellent combine may get Moore into the first round.
| Quote: | | On the South's defensive line, Maryland defensive tackle Dre Moore has made quite an impression and could fly under the radar. The 6-4, 306-pound lineman blew up just about every O-lineman in individual drills and opened up the team portion Tuesday by running through a guard and holding himself back because he would have crushed Kentucky quarterback Andre Woodson had it not been practice. |
| Quote: | Strengths:
Terrific size with a big frame...Excellent strength...Great speed and quickness with a burst to close...Plays with a nasty demeanor...Has good range and makes plays in pursuit...Can penetrate and wreak havoc in the backfield...Has the potential to be stout at the point of attack...Could play in multiple schemes...Has some upside.
Weaknesses:
Still pretty raw...Lackluster instincts and awareness...Inconsistent leverage...Does not use his hands well...Pass rush repertoire is limited...He doesn't play up to his weight room numbers..His work ethic and motor have been brought into question.
Notes:
First name is actually Marchondray...He played just one year of varsity football in high school..Could project to either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme...Has everything you look for physically but just has not been able to put it all together yet, although he did have his best year as a senior...A "Workout Warrior" who will probably be chosen earlier than his film would otherwise indicate...Quite possibly a boom or bust type. |
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PulpExposure
Pushing Paper
Joined: 06 Sep 2005
Posts: 4461
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| Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2008 8:40 pm Post subject: |
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| SkinsFreak wrote: | | I like this guy as a 2nd or a 3rd round pick. Any opinions on him? |
Dre Moore has everything you want in a great DT except a motor that always runs. He looks like a freaking monster, and I'm sure he had sick Combine numbers. I'm sure that will hyperinflate his draft status.
When he plays hard, he's unblockable. But he doesn't play hard all the time. And supposedly, rumors at College Park had him as lazy.
(Maryland alum/fan here.) |
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yupchagee
#14
Joined: 19 Apr 2006
Posts: 4113
Location: Louisville KY
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| Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2008 10:10 pm Post subject: |
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| SkinsFreak wrote: | I like this guy as a 2nd or a 3rd round pick. Any opinions on him?
Dre Moore, DT - Maryland
Height: 6-4. Weight: 307.
40 Time: 4.82.
Projected Round: 2.
Dre Moore played out of his mind against West Virginia. Steve Slaton simply couldn't run in Moore's direction, as the senior defensive tackle was in the Mountaineers' backfield the majority of the plays. He really improved his draft stock.
That 4.82 is not a misprint. Moore, who excels at stopping the run and getting to the quarterback, is a workout warrior. He'll bench 225 pounds at least 30 times. He has also notched a 34-inch vertical in the past. An expected, excellent combine may get Moore into the first round.
| Quote: | | On the South's defensive line, Maryland defensive tackle Dre Moore has made quite an impression and could fly under the radar. The 6-4, 306-pound lineman blew up just about every O-lineman in individual drills and opened up the team portion Tuesday by running through a guard and holding himself back because he would have crushed Kentucky quarterback Andre Woodson had it not been practice. |
| Quote: | Strengths:
Terrific size with a big frame...Excellent strength...Great speed and quickness with a burst to close...Plays with a nasty demeanor...Has good range and makes plays in pursuit...Can penetrate and wreak havoc in the backfield...Has the potential to be stout at the point of attack...Could play in multiple schemes...Has some upside.
Weaknesses:
Still pretty raw...Lackluster instincts and awareness...Inconsistent leverage...Does not use his hands well...Pass rush repertoire is limited...He doesn't play up to his weight room numbers..His work ethic and motor have been brought into question.
Notes:
First name is actually Marchondray...He played just one year of varsity football in high school..Could project to either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme...Has everything you look for physically but just has not been able to put it all together yet, although he did have his best year as a senior...A "Workout Warrior" who will probably be chosen earlier than his film would otherwise indicate...Quite possibly a boom or bust type. |
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Ran a 4.88 & recorded 31 reps & a 28" vertical. No agility #'s yet. There is no question about his ability, but he seems risky. |
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HEROHAMO
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Joined: 20 Oct 2004
Posts: 4027
Location: SANTA ANA,CA
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| Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2008 5:28 pm Post subject: |
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| Quote: | # Chris Long, Virginia
Height: 6-3. Weight: 272.
Projected 40 Time: 4.73.
Combine 40 Time: 4.71.
Benchx225: . Vertical 34.
Projected Round: First overall pick.
Is there any doubt Chris Long is going first overall? He posted incredible combine numbers and was actually disappointed after each of them. He had a broad jump of 10-4 and was pissed because he thought he could go 11 feet. That just shows how competitive he is. I'd also be shocked if he didn't interview well. There's no reason for Miami not to take him first overall, unless Dallas gives them an incredible offer for the pick.
# Vernon Gholston, Ohio State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 266.
Projected 40 Time: 4.58.
Combine 40 Time: 4.64.
Benchx225: 37. Vertical 35.5.
Projected Round: Top 5 Pick.
I'm glad I predicted Vernon Gholston to go second in my 2008 NFL Mock Draft prior to the combine. Gholston was every bit as good as Chris Long, running a 4.64, benching 225 pounds 37 times, jumping 35.5 inches off the ground. He also had a broad jump of 10'5", which is much better than Gaines Adams' sub-10. There's no doubt in my mind that unless Chris Long is on the board, the Rams are going with Gholston. It just makes too much sense at this point.
Gholston had a great game against Michigan, beating Jake Long on more than one instance.
Vernon Gholston essentially came out of nowhere to record 8.5 sacks in 2006. How will he fare now that offensive coordinators will be focusing on him? Remember, Quinn Pitcock, David Patterson and Jay Richardson all left for the NFL.
# Phillip Merling, Clemson
Height: 6-4. Weight: 276.
Projected 40 Time: 4.65.
Combine 40 Time: Did not run.
Benchx225: 23. Vertical .
Projected Round: Top 20 Pick.
I was disappointed that Phillip Merling didn't work out. I wanted to compare him to Derrick Harvey, Quentin Groves, Lawrence Jackson and Cliff Avril.
Merling, who recorded three sacks as a sophomore, started his junior campaign brilliantly by accumulating eight tackles, a sack and a forced fumble against Florida State.
# Derrick Harvey, Florida
Height: 6-4. Weight: 271.
Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
Combine 40 Time: 4.80.
Benchx225: 31. Vertical 32.5.
Projected Round: Top 20 Pick.
The NFL Network reported that Derrick Harvey weighed in at 291 pounds. This was an error they failed to correct after two days, however, as he is officially listed at 271. Still, Harvey's a mid-first round pick, as he looked solid at the combine.
Harvey was abused in Florida's postseason exhibition match against Michigan.
Suited for the 3-4. Harvey, a monstrous pass rusher, sacked Troy Smith twice in the BCS Championship. Collected 11 sacks in 2006. Considered by some as a better pro prospect than Jarvis Moss, who was drafted No. 17.
# Quentin Groves, Auburn
Height: 6-3. Weight: 259.
Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
Combine 40 Time: 4.52.
Benchx225: 30. Vertical .
Projected Round: 1.
Quentin Groves, who also had a broad jump of 10 feet in addition to his solid numbers, may have cemented himself as a first-round pick. He weighed in at 259 pounds and ran a 4.52. He didn't do the drills, however, but neither did Chris Long.
A 3-4 rush linebacker. Size and speed very similar to Harvey's. Notched 9.5 sacks in 2006.
# Calais Campbell, Miami
Height: 6-7. Weight: 290.
Projected 40 Time: 4.77.
Combine 40 Time: 5.03.
Benchx225: . Vertical .
Projected Round: 1-2.
Not a good showing from Calais Campbell, who needed to follow up a disappointing red-shirt junior season with a solid combine. Instead, he ran a 5.03. He could be out of the first round.
# Lawrence Jackson, USC
Height: 6-4. Weight: 271.
Projected 40 Time: 4.83.
Combine 40 Time: 4.81.
Benchx225: 31. Vertical 31.
Projected Round: 1-2.
Lawrence Jackson is probably a better fit in a 4-3, but I think he can play effectively in the 3-4 as well. Solid combine definitely places him in the first half of the second round.
# Cliff Avril, Purdue
Height: 6-2. Weight: 253.
Projected 40 Time: 4.71.
Combine 40 Time: 4.51.
Benchx225: 17. Vertical 32.5.
Projected Round: 2.
Cliff Avril had a great combine and may have pushed himself all the way atop Round 2. Avril's 40 time matched with his size will have any team in need of a 3-4 rush linebacker looking at him then.
# Chris Ellis, Virginia Tech
Height: 6-4. Weight: 263.
Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
Combine 40 Time: 4.71.
Benchx225: . Vertical .
Projected Round: 2-3.
I thought Chris Ellis performed pretty well. There are character issues, but as a pure athlete, he's second-round material.
You have to like the speed that comes with his size. Can play both the 4-3 and 3-4. Had six sacks in 2005 but saw that total drop to 4.5 in 2006.
# Chris Harrington, Texas A&M
Height: 6-4. Weight: 264.
Projected 40 Time: 4.72.
Combine 40 Time: 4.89.
Benchx225: 21. Vertical .
Projected Round: 3.
It might be tough to put Chris Harrington at the 3-4 rushing linebacker position. His 40 wasn't that good, though he was close to a 10-foot broad jump (9'9").
Has the size and speed to play both the 4-3 and 3-4, but more suited for the former. Notched 7.5 sacks in 2006.
# Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan
Height: 6-5. Weight: 273.
Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
Combine 40 Time: 4.82.
Benchx225: 18. Vertical .
Projected Round: 3-4.
Jason Jones' 40 could have been better, but his broad jump was 10'3". Still a mid-round prospect.
A candidate for the 3-4, Jones had four sacks in 2006. He's been a full-time starter since his sophomore year.
# Wallace Gilberry, Alabama
Height: 6-2. Weight: 268.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Combine 40 Time: 4.96.
Benchx225: 19. Vertical .
Projected Round: 4.
I wanted Wallace Gilberry to run in the 4.8s, but I don't think his 40 will hurt his stock that much.
A solid player suited for the 4-3, Gilberry collected only 3.5 sacks in 2006. That total needs to at least double to warrant first-day consideration.
# Kenny Iwebema, Iowa
Height: 6-4. Weight: 274.
Projected 40 Time: 4.76.
Combine 40 Time: 4.97.
Benchx225: 26. Vertical .
Projected Round: 4-5.
A traditional end, Iwebema never had a chance to follow up his 7-sack 2005 campaign because he was always in and out of the lineup with an injured shoulder.
# Darrell Robertson, Georgia Tech
Height: 6-4. Weight: 255.
Projected 40 Time: 4.68.
Combine 40 Time: Did not run.
Benchx225: 23. Vertical .
Projected Round: 4-5.
Darrell Robertson didn't run the 40, which is understandable because he put on about 10 pounds.
Another tweener who must add mass and maintain his speed. Collected just three sacks in 2006.
# Greyson Gunheim, Washington
Height: 6-5. Weight: 265.
40 Time: 4.64.
Projected Round: 5.
What a cool name for a potential NFL defensive end. Should be able to play the 3-4 or 4-3. Notched six sacks in 2006.
# Chase Ortiz, TCU
Height: 6-2. Weight: 249.
Projected 40 Time: 4.78.
Combine 40 Time: 4.87.
Benchx225: 24. Vertical .
Projected Round: 5.
At his size, Chase Ortiz needed a better 40. A true 4-3 end, it's difficult to speculate what happened to Ortiz. He registered nine sacks in 2005, but saw that total decrease to just 2.5 in 2006.
# Tommy Blake, TCU
Height: 6-2. Weight: 281.
Projected 40 Time: 4.67.
Combine 40 Time: Did not run.
Benchx225: . Vertical .
Projected Round: 5.
Tommy Blake, a guy with a shady habit of quitting on his team, gained 25 pounds since the end of the season. He didn't work out either. Caveat emptor.
Blake has missed a number of games this year with an undisclosed illness.
Where is Tommy Blake? The former Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year has missed four straight practices because he went home, more than 300 miles away from campus. Rumors are Blake is struggling with high expectations. Will he ever return to the team? That remains to be seen.
# Brian Johnston, Gardner-Webb
Height: 6-5. Weight: 280.
40 Time: 4.78.
Projected Round: 5.
A very productive end out of Gardner-Webb, Brian Johnston accumulated seven sacks in 2006, making the All-Big South first team. Level of competition is naturally an issue.
# Rudolph Hardie, Howard
Height: 6-1. Weight: 270.
40 Time: 4.72.
Projected Round: 5.
Another non-Division I-A player with great attributes and production; Rudolph Hardie had 9.5 sacks last year.
# Adamm Oliver, Georgia Tech
Height: 6-3. Weight: 268.
Projected 40 Time: 4.76.
Combine 40 Time: Did not run.
Benchx225: 29. Vertical .
Projected Round: 5-6.
Didn't run the 40 at the combine.
Nice size and speed for a pass rusher looking to play either the 3-4 or 4-3. Production (3.5 sacks in 2006) definitely needs to increase.
# Johnny Dingle, West Virginia
Height: 6-1. Weight: 265.
Projected 40 Time: 4.76.
Combine 40 Time: 4.92.
Benchx225: 23. Vertical .
Projected Round: 5-6.
Really improved in his junior year. Started 12 games. Not really sure if I agreed with his decision to come out. Will go on Sunday afternoon.
# Louis Holmes, Arizona
Height: 6-6. Weight: 270.
Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
Combine 40 Time: 4.77.
Benchx225: . Vertical 32.5.
Projected Round: 5-6.
Louis Holmes put up good numbers at the combine, but his production at Arizona was lacking.
Holmes recorded only two tackles against Northern Arizona. Can you say "bust?"
Holmes, who can play the 3-4 and 4-3, has the measurables of a first-round prospect. The production just wasn't there, however. After collecting 16 sacks in two years of junior college, Holmes struggled in the Pac-10, recording only four sacks.
# Eric Foster, Rutgers
Height: 6-2. Weight: 265.
40 Time: 4.82.
Projected Round: 5-6.
Collected six sacks in 2006 at defensive tackle. Will have to move to defensive end in the NFL.
# Jeremy Thompson, Wake Forest
Height: 6-4. Weight: 264.
Projected 40 Time: 4.72.
Combine 40 Time: 4.73.
Benchx225: 25. Vertical 32.
Projected Round: 6.
Jeremy Thompson really improved his senior season, registering about seven sacks the first two months of action.
There's some potential here, as Jeremy Thompson's 40 isn't bad for his size. However, one sack in a season isn't going to cut it.
# Rob Jackson, Kansas State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 253.
40 Time: 4.79.
Projected Round: 6.
Rob Jackson will be forced into a 3-4 scheme unless he can gain some weight. He had 4.5 sacks in 2006.
# Jeremy Geathers, UNLV
Height: 6-3. Weight: 256.
Projected 40 Time: 5.03.
Combine 40 Time: 4.95.
Benchx225: 29. Vertical .
Projected Round: 7.
Angelo Craig, Cincinnati
Height: 6-4. Weight: 252.
Projected 40 Time: 4.59.
Combine 40 Time: 5.07.
Benchx225: 21. Vertical 30.5.
Projected Round: 6.
# Bryan Mattison, Iowa
Height: 6-3. Weight: 290.
Projected 40 Time: 4.83.
Combine 40 Time: 5.19.
Benchx225: 26. Vertical .
Projected Round: 6.
A massive 4-3 end who can get to opposing signal callers. Mattison had 6.5 sacks in 2006 and four in 2005. Is this production coming because all of the attention is focused on Kenny Iwebema?
# Robert Henderson, Southern Miss
Height: 6-3. Weight: 280.
40 Time: 4.78.
Projected Round: 6.
Runs fast for a 280-pounder. Notched 4.5 sacks in 2006. Coming off a shoulder injury, however.
# Matt Kroul, Iowa
Height: 6-3. Weight: 271.
40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round: 6-7.
How many pass-rushers does Iowa plan on sending to the NFL, a million? Matt Kroul's 40 is an abomination.
# Joe Clermond, Pittsburgh
Height: 6-1. Weight: 249.
Projected 40 Time: 4.88.
Combine 40 Time: 5.12.
Benchx225: 20. Vertical .
Projected Round: 6-7.
Joe Clermond was arrested for marijuana possession in the middle of July. Though all charges were dropped, NFL teams may not forget this incident. Clermond had 5.5 sacks in 2006.
# Marcus Dixon, Hampton
Height: 6-4. Weight: 292.
Projected 40 Time: 5.03.
Combine 40 Time: 5.25.
Benchx225: 21. Vertical .
Projected Round: FA.
# Antonio Reynolds, Tennessee
Height: 6-3. Weight: 260.
40 Time: 4.77.
Projected Round: 7.
Started most of Tennessee's games last year, but managed only one sack. Neck problems caused him to miss two games.
# Phillip Mbakogu, California
Height: 6-3. Weight: 255.
40 Time: 4.76.
Projected Round: FA.
Recorded 5.5 sacks in 2005, but missed most of the 2006 campaign with a knee injury.
# Dorian Smith, Oregon State
Height: 6-1. Weight: 264.
Projected 40 Time: 4.79.
Combine 40 Time: 5.02.
Benchx225: 24. Vertical 27.5.
Projected Round: FA.
# Kroy Biermann, Montana
Height: 6-3. Weight: 242.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Combine 40 Time: 4.83.
Benchx225: 29. Vertical 31.5.
Projected Round: FA.
# Matt Robinson, Wake Forest
Height: 6-2. Weight: 240.
40 Time: 4.84.
Projected Round: FA.
Matt Robinson, who was Wake Forest's top sack-artist for two seasons, missed the entire 2006 campaign with a broken kneecap. Undesized; a tweener.
# Alex Boston, Florida State
Height: 6-3. Weight: 278.
40 Time: 4.76.
Projected Round: FA.
Alex Boston's 40 is nice for his size. And then there's his production... Six starts and one sack in 2006. One sack in 2005. None in 2004.
# Nick Schlekeway, Boise State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 260.
40 Time: 4.88.
Projected Round: FA.
Nick Schlekeway's 40 time hurts his draft stock. So do the two sacks he recorded in 2006.
# Xavier Mitchell, Tennessee
Height: 6-2. Weight: 255.
40 Time: 4.86.
Projected Round: FA.
Needs a faster 40 at his size.
# Blake Smith, Colorado State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 270.
40 Time: 4.90.
Projected Round: FA.
Another one of these Adam Carriker-types. Blake Smith, who's pretty versatile, had two sacks in the 2006 season opener, but failed to record one the rest of the year. |
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GSPODS
Hog
Joined: 03 Sep 2007
Posts: 4983
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| Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2008 8:11 am Post subject: |
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The Lions are "expected" to draft Florida DE Derrick Harvey if he's there with the No. 15 pick, according to MLive.com.
There's a pretty good chance Harvey won't be there, however. He could go as high as No. 7 to the Patriots. True pass rushers like Harvey probably won't be around long after the Giants' Super Bowl performance.
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