Draft Insiders' Digest Premier NFL Draft and Free Agency Publication
Underclassmen NFL Draft 2010
Photo - OT Anthony Davis - Rutgers
As college teams complete their bowl games, underclassmen have begun to declare for the NFL Draft 2010. Underclassmen have until Jan. 15, 2010 to declare for the NFL Draft 2010. This offseason we are expecting a huge class of underclassmen to turn pro with the NFL players agreement expiring. Any new agreement and the future salary cap will probably undergo some critical changes especially related to the rookie salary cap and overall draft selections.
Underclassmen NFL Draft 2010
Player / Pos / H/W / School / Class
Offensive Players
QB Sam Bradford - 6’4” 220 - Oklahoma - Jr.
QB Jimmy Clausen - 6’3” 220 - Notre Dame - Jr.
RB Ryan Matthews - 5’11” 225 - Fresno St - Jr.
WR Dez Bryant - 6’1” 215 - Oklahoma St - Jr.
WR Arrelious Benn - 6’2” 220 - Illinois - Jr.
WR Dezmon Briscoe - 6’2” 200 - Kansas - Jr.
WR Golden Tate - 5’10” 190 - Notre Dame - Jr.
OT Anthony Davis - 6’6” 325 - Rutgers - Jr.
OT Bruce Campbell - 6’6” 310 - Maryland - Jr.
Defensive Players
DE Everson Griffen - 6’3” 265 - Southern Cal
DT Gerald McCoy - 6’3” 300 - Oklahoma - Jr.
DT Abe Koroma - 6’3” 315 - Western Illinois - Jr.
CB Donovan Warren - 5’11” 195 - Michigan - Jr
Date for declaring for the NFL Draft 2010 for underclassmen is January 15, 2010 Players have three days after the declaration date to rescind and change their minds and return to school for the College 2010 season.
QB Jimmy Clausen & WR Golden Tate Turn Pro
Photo – WR Golden Tate - Notre Dame
University of Notre Dame junior QB Jimmy Clausen and junior receiver Golden Tate announced in a joint press conference Monday that they intend to forgo their final season of eligibility and enter the NFL Draft 2010. Clausen leaves Notre Dame ranked first or second in 32 Irish passing categories including tops in career completion percentage, completions per game for a career and tied for first in lowest career interception percentage. He completed 695 of 1,110 pass attempts for 8,148 yards with 60 TDs and 27 interceptions while starting 34 of 35 games played for his three seasons with the Irish.
The 6-3, 223-pound QB completed his best season at Notre Dame this fall while completing 68% of his passes for 3,722 yards with 28 TDs and just 4 interceptions. Clausen set a new Irish record by passing for at least 300 yards in seven games, in addition to four 4th quarter comebacks for victories that are the most in a season by an ND passer.
Clausen said. "The Notre Dame experience has been a positive one and the highlight of my young career and wouldn't change it for anything. I want to thank Coach Weis and Coach Powlus as well as all the other coaches and staff that include the trainers, doctors, equipment managers, academic support, and everyone associated with the football program, especially Joe Montana and Joe Theismann. "I want to thank each one of my teammates for always being there for me through all the trials and tribulations the past 3 years. I would also like to thank my teachers and professors, fellow students, athletic director Jack Swarbrick, Father Jenkins and the entire Notre Dame Nation for all their support. Notre Dame has the best fans in the country. I will always be a Golden Domer For Life!
Tate departs as one of the most prolific receivers in Notre Dame history recording 2,707 receiving yards on 157 receptions with 26 TDs. Tate set Notre Dame's career receiving record in the final game of the 2009 season and also registered more games with at least 100 receiving yards in a season and in a career than any other Irish player. He ranks second in career TD receptions and is tied for third in career receptions. He is also an American Football Coaches Association All-American and Biletnikoff Award finalist after he flourished in his third season as a receiver totaling 93 catches for 1,496 yards and 15 receiving TDs. During the ’09 season, he set school records this year for most receptions and receiving yards in a season and tied the school mark for most TD receptions in a year. He added two rushing TDs and one punt return for a TD and totaled 1,915 all-purpose yards, 2nd most in Irish history.
"First off, I would like to thank God my savior without him none if this would be possible," Tate said. ""I would also like to thank my family, especially my mother and father for always being there. I have so much respect for someone who can raise a knucklehead like myself. They have done a great job.
"This was a very tough decision for me," Tate said. "I have made so many great friends at Notre Dame and the coaching I received in football and baseball has been the best. But after talking with my family and Coach Weis, I am going to pursue my dream and enter next year's NFL draft.
Underclassmen Declared for the NFL Draft 2010
Sam Bradford - QB - 6-4, 220 - Oklahoma - Jr
Jimmy Clausen - QB - 6-3, 220 - Notre Dame - Jr
Dez Bryant - WR - 6-1, 215 - Oklahoma St - Jr
Dezmon Briscoe – WR - 6-2, 200 - Kansas - Jr
Golden Tate - WR - 5-10, 190 - Notre Dame - Jr
Abe Koroma - DT - 6-3. 317 - Western Illinois - Jr
Date for declaring for the NFL Draft 2010 for underclassmen is January 15, 2010 Players have three days after the declaration date to rescind and change their minds and return to school for the College 2010 season.
DraftInsiders.com and ProFootballDraftNetwork.com
will be collaborating on a weekly article posted mid week during the college football regular season to review the prior weeks most notable performances from a NFL Draft 2010 perspective.
NFL Draft Prospects - Week 12
Photo - TE Dennis Pitta - BYU
Frank Coyle / Head Scout
www.draftinsiders.com
Draft Insiders’ Digest –19th Season
TE Dennis Pitta - BYU
Mobile senior tight end had a season high in receptions (11), receiving yards (111) and touchdowns (2) as the Cougars beat Air Force. He combines natural receiving skills with fine hands route running and the speed for the position to become a great addition to a pro offense. He has the speed to stretch the field and run after the catch ability to pressure a defense. He has the size to improve as an inline blocker, though he needs technique and strength work to warrant playing inline in the NFL. He is an exceptional H-back prospect for the pro game.
WR Freddie Barnes - Bowling Green
Smooth senior receiver has been instrumental in the Bowling Green passing offense this season. He is a fast rising prospect who flashes impact ability at times despite some erratic QB play. The fifth-year senior posted 12 catches for 197 yards and two TDs and added 15 yards on the ground in the win over Akron. He combines very good speed, agility and hands along with a fine level of development that will make him highly valuable for the pro game. He displays a well developed skill set for the position that has allowed him to get open, catch the ball and make yardage after the reception. He needs to display these skills in the postseason vs top competition to continue his fast rise up personnel charts.
RB Montario Hardesty - Tennessee
Short compact senior running back had a strong performance in the Vols win over Vanderbilt. He is a well built back who has performed this season in his first full season as a starter. Against Vanderbilt, he rushed 32 times for 171 and 1 TD. He is effective running inside where his lateral quickness and strength allows him to move through holes fast with the power to break tackles. He lacks outstanding size, speed and quickness that will keep him from the top tier of backs, but he is a tough honest runner with some natural skills that could earn him much attention over the postseason. He is the type who could surprise as a backup in the right setting.
LB Sean Weatherspoon - Missouri
Athletic senior linebacker has been instrumental in the success of the tough Tiger defense over the past few seasons. Spoon closed out his home career in fine fashion, as he registered 8 tackles, including 2 huge TFLs and 1 QB sack, as the Tigers put a dominating 4th-quarter defensive showing to help MU to its 34-24 win against Iowa St. He plays a very physical style of defense and attacks the line of scrimmage in a downhill fashion. He has the versatility to play a few positions, showing the ability to flow to the ball very well and finish with strong sure tackling.
LB Sam Maxwell - Kentucky
Aggressive senior defender had a dominant performance vs Georgia that was instrumental in their victory. He is a savvy defender with a quick first step and the power to gain a fast advantage to defeat blocking angles. Maxwell led Kentucky with a career-high 11 tackles, including one TFL in the Wildcats’ 34-27 win. In the final three minutes of the game, Maxwell made two game-saving plays. With Georgia driving for the potential tying touchdown, he stopped Georgia tailback Caleb King at the 1 yard line. On the next play, Kentucky recovered a Bulldog fumble. With 1:45 remaining, he intercepted a pass, clinching the win for the Wildcats. He showed the talent to make plays both inside and at the sidelines. His fine instincts and his ability to run well and drop in coverage at 6’3” 245 lbs. could allow him to be an every down defender and capable of playing in either pro scheme.
Denis Krusos - Editor
Pro Football Draft Network
www.profootballdraftnetwork.com
OT Chris Scott, Senior, Tennessee
The Vols cruised past Vanderbilt 31-16. Tennessee rushed for 201 yards and averaged 5 yards per carry. Scott did an excellent job run blocking and consistently drove his feet upon contact. The left tackle did not surrender a sack and used his long arms to keep pass rushers at bay. Scott is versatile and has also played guard. He is massive, yet runs well enough to pull and reach the 2nd level. The durable offensive lineman could climb draft boards if he shows that he is serious about his conditioning.
QB Ryan Perrilloux, Senior, Jacksonville State
Perrilloux had another productive game in leading Jacksonville State to a 34-26 win over Eastern Kentucky. He completed 13 passes in 24 attempts (54%) for 191 yards (8 yards per attempt) and a touchdown. Perrilloux also ran for 115 yards on 9 carries (12.8 per) and a touchdown. He leads the nation in passing efficiency and threw only 2 interceptions all season. Perrilloux is the finest quarterback prospect to come out of the Ohio Valley Conference since Tony Romo. He can get the ball downfield and is accurate. Perrilloux has all of the physical tools to start in the NFL. However, he has a checkered background and his immaturity resulted in him being dismissed from LSU. He will be grilled during interviews with NFL teams prior to the draft regarding his dependability. How well he answers these tough questions will determine how high he is drafted or even if he is.
CB Patrick Robinson, Senior, Florida State
Robinson had a strong game in Florida State’s 29-26 victory over Maryland. He displayed solid tackling skills with 7 stops, 2 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Robinson also had a pass break-up, but the Seminoles woes in the front seven limited his opportunities. Florida State has struggled all season with stopping the run and mounting a pass rush. Robinson has the size, quickness and speed to cover NFL receivers. His play against Maryland revealed a willingness to help in run support. He should test well in the post-season because he is an exceptional athlete.
CB Alterraun Verner, Senior, UCLA
The Bruins’ 23-13 victory over Arizona State was led by the defense. Verner provided UCLA with an early lead when he intercepted a pass and returned it 68-yards for a touchdown. Verner also recovered a fumble and had 3 tackles. The UCLA cornerback is undersized and does not have blazing speed, but he has a feel for where the ball is going. Verner has 12 career interceptions and a school-record 4 returned for a score. His ball skills and fine character are making NFL talent evaluators take notice.
OT Trent Williams, Senior, Oklahoma
The Sooners disappointing season continued with a 41-13 defeat to Texas Tech. OU rushed for only 48 yards on 26 attempts (1.8 per) and surrendered 3 sacks. Williams entered his senior year widely considered a future 1st round pick. He has not played like a 1st rounder. He has not dominated as a run blocker and made too many mental mistakes. His transition to left tackle has not been smooth and he clearly looks more comfortable on the right side. Williams is impressive physically and still is a strong candidate to be selected in the 1st round of the 2010 NFL Draft. However, he has not earned this position with his play this season.
UNI's James Ruffin Chosen for East-West Game
85th Annual East-West Shrine Game
Photo - DE James Ruffin - Northern Iowa
University of Northern Iowa senior defensive end James Ruffin has been selected to play in the East-West Shrine Game. Ruffin is a strong candidate this year for the Buck Buchanan Award, the Defensive Player of the Year award for the subdivision level. He will travel to Orlando, Fla., to take part in the East-West Shrine Game which is set for Jan. 23, 2010, at the Florida Citrus Bowl. It is the first year in Orlando after several years in Houston, Texas after a long history in San Francisco as the oldest All-star classic in college football. The game will be televised on ESPN2.
Ruffin leads the Missouri Valley Football Conference in sacks and ranks No. 9 in the nation (0.95 sacks/game). He has totaled 44 tackles with 9.5 sacks, 12 TFL and 2 forced fumbles in a dominant performance in the Missouri Valley Conference. He earned Defensive Player of the Year in 2008 for an outstanding overall performance. Ruffin is one of five players currently on the East-West roster from the lower level of play. He becomes the third UNI Panther football player to be selected to play in the East-West Shrine Game through the years. The two previous players (Brad Meester in 2000 and Chad Setterstrom in 2002) each went on to play in the National Football League.
East-West Shrine Game Roster (early invitees)
East Roster -
First Name / Last Name / Position / School
Ali Villanuea - Tight End - Army
Dan Lefevour - Quarterback - Central Michigan University
Thomas Austin - Offensive Guard - Clemson University
Kavell Conner - Inside Linebacker - Clemson University
Vince Oghobaase - Defensive Tackle - Duke University
Van Eskridge - Free Safety - East Carolina University
John Skelton - Quarterback - Fordham University
Akwasi Owusu-Ansah - Cornerback - Indiana University of Pa
Jamar Chaney - Inside Linebacker - Mississippi St University
Ted Larsen - Center - North Carolina St University
Willie Young - Defensive End - North Carolina St University
Arthur Jones - Defensive Tackle - Syracuse University
Andre Roberts - Wide Receiver - The Citadel
Brandon Lang - Defensive End - Troy University
Cameron Sheffield - Outside Linebacker - Troy University
Andre Anderson - Running Back - Tulane University
Mitch Petrus - Offensive Guard - University of Arkansas
Torell Troup - Defensive Tackle - University of Central Florida
Lindsey Witten - Defensive End - University of Connecticut
Jon Asamoah - Offensive Guard - University of Illinois
Michael Hoomanawanui - Tight End - University of Illinois
Terrell Skinner - Free Safety - University of Maryland
Darryl Sharpton - Inside Linebacker - University of Miami
Nate Byham - Tight End - University of Pittsburgh
Kion Wilson - Inside Linebacker - University of South Florida
Chris Scott - Offensive Tackle - University of Tennessee
O'Brien Schofield - Outside Linebacker - University of Wisconsin
Barry Church - Strong Safety - University of Toledo
Ed Wang - Offensive Tackle - Virginia Tech
Brandon Ghee - Cornerback - Wake Forest University
West Roster -
First Name / Last Name / Position / School
Tony Washington - Offensive Tackle - Abilene Christian University
Chris Thomas - Safety - Air Force Academy
Dexter Davis - Outside Linebacker - Arizona St University
Chris McGaha - Wide Receiver - Arizona St University
Joe Pawelek - Inside Linebacker - Baylor University
J.D. Walton - Center - Baylor University
Max Hall - Quarterback - Brigham Young University
Shelley Smith - Offensive Guard - Colorado St University
Seyi Ajirotutu - Wide Receiver - Fresno St University
Robert Malone - Punter - Fresno St University
Lonyae Miller - Running Back - Fresno St University
Reggie Stephens - Offensive Guard - Iowa St University
Perrish Cox - Cornerback - Oklahoma St University
Zac Robinson - Quarterback - Oklahoma St University
Erik Lorig - Defensive End - Stanford University
Ekom Udofia - Defensive Tackle - Stanford University
Jerry Hughes - Outside Linebacker - Texas Christian University
Daryl Washington - Inside Linebacker - Texas Christian University
Brandon Carter - Offensive Guard - Texas Tech University
Earl Mitchell - Defensive Tackle - University of Arizona
Devin Ross - Cornerback - University of Arizona
Tyson Alualu - Defensive Tackle - University of California
Mike Tepper - Offensive Tackle - University of California
Syd'Quan Thompson - Cornerback - University of California
Verran Tucker - Wide Receiver - University of California
Ryan Moya - Fullback - UCLA
Alterraun Verner - Cornerback - UCLA
Danario Alexander - Wide Receiver - University of Missouri
Larry Asante - Strong Safety - University of Nebraska
James Ruffin - Defensive End - University of Northern Iowa
Auston English - Defensive End - University of Oklahoma
TJ Ward - Free Safety - University of Oregon
Joshua Pinkard - Free Safety - University of Southern California
Zane Beadles - Offensive Tackle - University of Utah
Kenny Alfred - Center - Washington St University
Frank Coyle is a consultant for several All-star games including the Senior Bowl. He is a longtime Member of the FWAA and voter in College team and player awards - Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Thorpe, etc. He is a voter for different weekly Team and Player Awards.
NFL Draft Prospects - Week 11
DraftInsiders.com and ProFootballDraftNetwork.com
will be collaborating on a weekly article posted mid week during the college football regular season to review the prior weeks most notable performances from a NFL Draft 2010 perspective.
Photo - Tackle Russell Okung – Oklahoma St
Frank Coyle - www.draftinsiders.com
Draft Insiders’ Digest –19th Season
OT Russell Okung – Senior - Oklahoma St
Athletic nimble senior left tackle has been very impressive over the past few seasons. He has moved up the charts significantly off those top efforts. He has fine size, agility and athleticism and has graded out high at the demanding left tackle spot. He uses his wingspan and footwork very effectively in pass protection, displaying the skill set to man the blindside tackle spot. He has been fully tested in the talented Big 12 and grades out high weekly vs some of the nation’s best speed rushers that has moved to the top of the charts and probable top ten prospect next spring with a big postseason. He is a big mobile kid with natural left tackle athleticism and a highly developed skill set.
QB Colt McCoy – Senior - Texas
Talented senior passer has played brilliantly again this season, showing coolness and playmaking ability in weekly pressure situations. Colt has shown well developed skills with another strong effort that includes completing 72.3% of passes for 2,792 yards and 19 TDs. He displays the talent to make all the throws with fine accuracy and timing, in addition to going through his progressions quickly. This prospect has the package NFL head coaches look for in a top flight starting QB after an extensive playing career. His accuracy is amazing both in the short and intermediate game and the ability to pick up secondary receivers well with few mistakes overall. With a big week at the Senior Bowl, he should guarantee an early selection. He was one of our elite prospects on our Senior Bowl invite list since September.
RB Dexter McCluster – Senior - Mississippi
Fast scatback set a school record with 282 rushing yards and scored four TDs as the Rebels defeated Tennessee, 42-17. He had 324 all-purpose yards while scoring on runs of 15, 23, 32 and 71 that spelled the difference in Ole Miss’s first win against Tennessee since 1983. He is dangerous in a number of roles – running back, receiver or return specialist. He is capable of hitting the home run from anywhere on the field and must be accounted for on ever down by a defensive back. He is the ultimate Wildcat performer who can line up at any skill position and make the big play. Despite his smallish size, he is the type a coach must see in a number of different roles to fully utilize his talent. He is one who can be a difference maker weekly if in the right position.
RB Jonathan Dwyer – Junior – Georgia Tech
Big physical junior running back had another strong performance in the Tech win over Duke that clinched the ACC Coastal division. He is a powerfully built back who has performed very well, displaying very strong inside running with the good burst of speed to break big plays. He is having another fine season after setting a conference high of almost 1400 rushing yards for an amazing 7 yard average per carry in 2008. He uses his powerful big frame to run over defenders, though he has the lateral quickness and speed that allows him to break into the second level and make the long gainer. He has reliable hands and has shown fast improvement as a receiver in addition to the physical talent and toughness to be a solid blocker.
LB Rolando McClain - Junior - Alabama
Athletic junior linebacker has been instrumental in the success of the top rated Bama defense over the past few seasons. He has been a highly productive defender who plays a very physical style of defense and attacks in a downhill fashion. He is a young versatile athletic backer who can play a few positions, displaying the ability to flow to the ball very well and finish with strong sure tackling. He is still a raw defender in some respects but a prospect with a blue chip label with the potential to be a special NFL player. He faces a big decision by January and needs a strong postseason at the NFL Combine to warrant a high draft selection.
Denis Krusos - Editor
Pro Football Draft Network
www.profootballdraftnetwork.com
WR Golden Tate, Junior, Notre Dame
Tate has had a brilliant junior year and continued making plays against Pitt. The Panthers defeated the Irish 27-22, but Tate was the spark to a 4th quarter comeback. His 87-yard punt return for a touchdown gave Notre Dame some hope, but the comeback fell short. Tate caught 9 passes for 113 yards (12.6 per) including an 18-yard touchdown reception. The 5 foot 11 and 195 pound true junior has played like Carolina’s, Steve Smith, this season. Tate can make the acrobatic catch downfield or turn a short completion into a big play with his running ability. The Notre Dame playmaker has a decision to make as to whether to enter the 2010 NFL Draft, but his stock is hot. If Notre Dame decides to replace Charlie Weis as its head coach then this will likely further increase the odds that Tate will turn pro early.
CB Myron Lewis, Senior, Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt lost again (24-13 to Kentucky) in what has been a dismal season. Myron Lewis was a bright spot against Kentucky with an interception, a pass break-up and a pair of tackles. Lewis has excellent size and a knack for finding the football (10 career interceptions). However, the Commodores do not have much of an offense and cannot stop the run. Lewis does not have many opportunities to display his skills against teams that are trailing and forced to throw the ball. Kentucky ran all over Vanderbilt (308 yards on 58 attempts (5.3 per)). The Wildcats passed for a mere 91 yards on 7 completions in 15 attempts. They also threw 2 interceptions, but why throw the ball when you cannot be stopped on the ground. Lewis may not have the speed to play cornerback in the NFL, but he has the size and ballhawking skills to convert to safety.
DE Tyson Alualu, Senior, Cal
Cal knocked off Arizona 24-16 and Alualu had another productive game. Alualu plays defensive end in Cal’s 3-4 defense. He registered 7 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble and a key deflection of a pass late in the game. It is a testament to his intensity, motor and skills that he is so active from his 3-4 defensive end position. Alualu plays with leverage and is quick. He utilizes an effective swim move to defeat blocks. The Cal defensive lineman likely will be able to play the defensive tackle position in a 4-3. In addition, although he is smaller (6’ 2” and 295 lbs) than the typical 3-4 defensive end, he is not easy to push around. Dallas nose tackle, Jay Ratliff, is showing that undersized 3-4 defensive linemen can succeed, if they have quickness and excellent technique. Alualu should be able to play in a variety of defensive fronts.
QB Jake Locker, Junior, Washington
The Huskies’ quarterback threw 3 touchdown passes in a 48-21 defeat to Oregon State, but was not sharp. Locker completed 14 passes in 23 attempts (61%) for only 153 yards (6.7 yards per attempt). His 1 interception was a classic example of locking onto a receiver. He was sacked 4 times and did little damage with his legs. The junior quarterback has a ton of talent, but has substantial room to improve upon the finer points of playing the position. He is not yet adept at looking off the safety and has to speed up his decision making. Locker would really benefit from working with coach, Steve Sarkisian, for another year. If he decides to return to Washington and has a big senior season then Jake Locker could be the 1st pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
WR Danario Alexander, Senior, Missouri
Missouri bombed Kansas State 38-12 with a bunch of big pass plays. Alexander had a huge game with 10 receptions for 200 yards and three touchdowns of 56, 16 and 80 yards. His three scoring receptions were different and illustrate Alexander’s considerable talent. Alexander on the 56-yard score used his jumping ability and height to outmaneuver the defensive back for the ball. The 16-yard touchdown was an example of a fine route that left him open in the corner of the endzone. Alexander’s 80-yard reception was a showcase of his open-field running ability and speed. The Missouri wide receiver has displayed big play ability since his true freshman year, but was slowed by a wrist and knee injury the past two seasons. He has stayed healthy this year and the production (81 receptions for 1,238 yards (15.3 per) and 11 touchdowns) is impressive. His durability has to be a concern, but tall receivers with his athleticism are coveted in the NFL.
DraftInsiders.com and ProFootballDraftNetwork.com
will be collaborating on a weekly article posted mid week during the college football regular season to review the prior weeks most notable performances from a NFL Draft 2010 perspective.
NFL Draft 2010 Prospects - Week 10
Frank Coyle - www.draftinsiders.com
Draft Insiders’ Digest –19th Season
Eric Berry - Fast Rising Prospect
Photo - Eric Berry - Tennessee
Safety Eric Berry, Junior – Tennessee
Savvy junior safety has been the catalyst of the emerging Vols defense this season. He can play both in the box and in space with playmaking talent in several roles. He beats blocking angles very effectively in run support and finishes with strong sure tackling. He has good coverage instincts with the ability to break on the ball in pass coverage. At times, he has attempted to do too much this fall, but has performed at a more consistent level over the past month He can intimidate with his physical hits and has a keen sense of the ball with the ability to anticipate and the athleticism to make the big play. Berry is one interception and 8 yards away from breaking an NCAA record career record. It will be interesting to see what Berry decides this January related to turning pro after his junior campaign.
RB Toby Gerhart– Senior – Stanford
Big physical senior running back had another strong performance in the Stanford upset win over Oregon. He is a powerfully built back who has performed very well in the Pac 10, displaying very strong inside running with the burst of speed to break big plays. Against Oregon, he set a school single-game record with 223 rushing yards on 38 carries and three TDs. He uses his powerful big frame to run over defenders, though he has the lateral quickness and speed that allows him to break into the second level. He has outstanding hands with good speed and quickness that allows him to make yardage after the reception. He is a well rounded runner with natural running skills that will earn him an invite to a major All-star game.
LB Sean Lee - Senior – Penn St
Athletic senior linebacker has been instrumental in the success of the Penn St defense over the past few seasons. Over his career, he has struggled staying on the field at times, but has been highly productive when physically right. He is a savvy versatile athletic backer who flows to the ball well and finishes with strong sure tackling. He has been considered a highly regarded first round prospect, though his injury history probably forces him later in the selection process. His postseason action and medical and physical process will be watched closely by NFL scouts to determine his pro potential.
WR Arrelious Benn - Junior – Illinois
Smooth junior receiver was instrumental in the Illinois victory over Minnesota when he recorded his first TD reception of the season. He is a playmaker with impact ability, but has struggled in this offense that has had very inconsistent QB play this fall. He is a highly rated prospect who flashes impact ability as both a receiver and return specialist. He combines very good size, speed, agility and hands along with a fine level of development that will make him highly valuable for the pro game. He displays a well developed skill set for the position, though he needs some route development to be ready for the pro game. He could be one of the top junior playmakers in this draft class with a strong finish and he decides to declare pro this January.
LB Von Miller – Junior – Texas A&M
Explosive defender has displayed impact ability over his Big 12 career and has had a strong season this fall. He has been a difference maker for this club, relying on a very quick first step and good hand technique to separate from blockers with the upfield speed to pressure and sack the QB. He has the frame to fill out further to become an every down pro defender on the outside in a 4-3 front. He lacks the bulk and size to play up in the 3-4 scheme, though his rangy frame could fill out over time. His ability to apply pressure off the edge will earn him much attention if he decides to turn pro. With another season as a collegian, he could be one of the top defenders next fall and a prime prospect for the NFL Draft 2011.
Denis Krusos - Editor
Pro Football Draft Network
www.profootballdraftnetwork.com
G Thomas Austin, Senior, Clemson
Clemson ripped Florida State 40-24. The Tigers rushed for 241 yards on 37 attempts (6.5 per). C.J. Spiller had a career-high 165 yards rushing and Clemson also passed for 242 yards. The offensive fireworks were aided by an offensive line that opened holes for runners and provided protection (1 sack allowed) for Clemson’s quarterback, Kyle Parker. LG Thomas Austin had an efficient overall game. He moved his feet well in pass protection and sunk his hips when drive-blocking. Austin is an experienced three-year starter and the leader of Clemson’s offensive line. His versatility, football smarts and work ethic are all positives that NFL teams will take notice of. Austin has played left and right guard, as well as center at Clemson. His ability to play all three interior offensive line positions may be his greatest strength.
DE Cory Wootton, Senior, Northwestern
Wootton does not appear to be completely recovered physically or mentally from tearing his ACL in his right knee during the 2008 Alamo Bowl. However, he did flash his considerable potential during Northwestern’s 17-10 upset of Iowa. Wootton swooped in to sack Iowa quarterback, Ricky Stanzi, in the endzone. The hit caused a fumble that was recovered by Northwestern for a touchdown and totally changed the game. Northwestern narrowed Iowa’s lead to 10-7 with the fumble recovery and stuffed the Hawkeyes’ offense the rest of the game. Stanzi was forced to leave the game after injuring an ankle on the game-changing play. Wootton did a fine job of controlling the offensive lineman in front of him and denying running room. Iowa gained only 65 yards on the ground and averaged a meager 2.4 yards per carry. Wootton has the size (6’ 6” and 270 pounds), athleticism and long arms that NFL teams look for in a defensive end. He will be closely watched to see how well he plays the rest of the season.
WR Dezmon Briscoe, Junior, Kansas
Briscoe scored the lone Kansas touchdown on a 17-yard reception in a 17-10 loss to Kansas State. Briscoe has been making big plays and scoring touchdowns for the Jayhawks since his true freshman season. He has good size and speed and can make something happen with his run-after-the-catch ability. Briscoe finished the game against Kansas State with 7 receptions for 76 yards (10.8 per). The junior receiver leads KU with 6 touchdown receptions this year. His skill-set will be in demand if he decides to declare for the 2010 NFL Draft.
DE Cameron Heyward, Junior, Ohio State
Penn State’s spread HD offense suffered a power outage against Ohio State’s defense in a 24-7 win for the Buckeyes. Cameron Heyward had a career game with 11 tackles, 3 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. The huge (6’ 6” and 287 lbs) and athletic defensive end was too much for the Penn State offensive line. The Nittany Lions scored season-low 7 points and had only 201 yards of total offense. Heyward helped make life difficult for quarterback, Daryll Clark, (12 of 28 (43%) for 125 yards and an interception) and running back, Evan Royster (13 carries for 36 yards (2.8 per)). Heyward is a true junior and may decide to return to Ohio State for his senior year. He could use another year improving his technique and anticipation (although Penn State would disagree). Heyward has the physical tools to skyrocket up draft boards with a big 2010 senior year. Defensive linemen with his size and athletic ability do not grow on trees. He has the potential of being a very high 1st round draft choice in 2011.
RB Jahvid Best, Junior, Cal
Best suffered a serious concussion against Oregon State as Cal lost 31-14. The exciting junior running back took to the air on a 7-yard scoring run and landed hard on his back and neck. He was released from the hospital and his CT scans came back normal. Best also had a minor concussion in the previous week’s game against Arizona State. . He will miss Cal’s next game and the team will proceed with caution before clearing him to play. His durability has to be a question mark for NFL evaluators. He does not have a powerful frame with narrow hips and a slender lower body. Best’s game is all about speed and quickness. He may have to re-think his aerial leaps. Reggie Bush is Best’s idol, but he would be better off studying how Tony Dorsett ran into the Pro Football Hall of Fame despite being small. Dorsett never left his feet and Best’s scary fall illustrates the risks of leaping high and far.
Frank Coyle
Draft Insiders’ Digest –19th Season
Dez Bryant Enters NFL Draft 2010
Suspended By NCAA Until 2010 Season Bryant Turns Pro
Photo - Dez Bryant - Oklahoma St
The NCAA informed Oklahoma St University junior wide receiver Dez Bryant this week that his appeal for his suspension was rejected and he will not play this season. Bryant immediately declared for the NFL Draft 2010 in April. Bryant will remain suspended for one calendar year and could have been eligible to return to game action in September of 2010. OSU appealed the original decision on Oct 27 to the NCAA Student-Athlete Reinstatement Committee.
Bryant is one of the top prospects at the receiver position for the NFL 2010 Draft. The junior receiver was ruled ineligible for violating an NCAA bylaw. The powerful 6’2” 215 lb. receiver was ruled ineligible earlier this fall by the school after he reportedly lied to the NCAA officials about a visit and workout at the home of former NFL star defender Deion Sanders. Bryant is a blue chip prospect for the NFL game and is coming off a huge sophomore performance last season when he had 87 receptions with 19 TDs for over 1,500 yards while averaging over 17 yards per catch. We ranked him in the Top 20 Prospects for the NFL Draft 2010 with Top 10 potential if he performs well at the NFL Combine this February.
I will have exclusive updates on this matter and an extensive Underclassmen Report in our November Newsletter out later this month
Frank Coyle - www.draftinsiders.com
Draft Insiders’ Digest –19th Season
The NCAA interviewed Bryant twice earlier this year about allegations at which time he denied that he had visited Sanders. That was proven false, but the fact that he lied to the NCAA is a violation that led to the suspension. Oklahoma St University began the process of applying to the NCAA on his behalf for reinstatement that was ruled on this week. This incident did not involve anyone associated with the OSU football or athletic department staffs, any employee of the university, alumni, donors, or any third-party affiliated with OSU.
