General Manager and Executive Vice President of Football Operations Rick Smith
Pre-Draft Press Conference
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
(Transcribed by Brett Maikowski and Omar Majzoub)
(opening statement) "I'm excited and happy to see you all. I've got some markers in this process. Yesterday, we met with the doctors and the trainers. This morning, I met with the security
department. With the final medical meeting yesterday, the final security meeting today, and then this meeting with you all, those markers all signal that it's getting close, so I'm excited about that. I always like to start by applauding the efforts of our group. This year is no different. In fact, this year—maybe it is a little bit different because we had a transition with our department. Mike Maccagnan, obviously, was named general manager of the New York Jets, so in the middle of our process we had to switch gears and we elevated Jon Carr to the director of college scouting role. Jon leading the department has done an outstanding job in that transition. I'm very pleased with the efforts that he was able to produce, as well as Brian Gaine. We elevated Brian Gaine as well to director of player personnel. The combination between the two guys and we hired a young man by the name of Matt Jansen, who was here before and had left and gone to the Baltimore Ravens. We brought him back in the role of college scouting coordinator. Those men and their efforts in terms of organizing the department and managing that transition from Mike to what they were able to do in those roles was really fantastic. All of our college scouts did a great job this year in terms of evaluating this draft class. The coaches did an outstanding job, as they always do, of coming in after the season and getting to know the group. We sent some coaches out this year- a little bit different in the process. We always tweak our process. We're always looking at the way that we do things in an attempt to improve. We looked at the process and one of the things we implemented this year was we sent coaches out to some pro days. We think that was something that was beneficial for us. I think we've done a really good job and a thorough job, as it ought to be, and an exhaustive job in getting as much information on these prospects in this draft class as possible. I think we've got a really good feel for how we feel about them and where they rank and how they're valued. I like our board and I like our process. As I stated, I'm excited and I'm ready to go. Thursday can't get here quick enough. With that, I will take your questions."
(on how things have changed in the second year working with Head Coach Bill O'Brien) "It's been really good. We are exponentially better. I don't know how you value that, but just from the standpoint of familiarity and understanding what we are looking for as a scouting department relative to that communication with the coaches. That's been much better this year. I think we have done a better job of articulating our vision for each of these players. We've got an idea of what the player will do when he comes into our group. We've really identified those roles that the player will come in and fill. I think from that perspective, just the communication has been so much better than last year. It's been great to work with Bill. Bill is an excellent partner. I've really enjoyed working with him over the year and we are into the last real phase of any part of the year where it's his first time. We've in effect been through everything together now that you typically in a colander year will experience. It's really good to be in this process with a year of experience with him and I think we're better for it."
(on if the team has decided to pick up the fifth year option on OLB Whitney Mercilus) "We're having those conversations and we're still contemplating that. What I will tell you about Whitney is this: Whitney is very similar to two players that you saw addressed in free agency, whether we're talking about a first-rounder with Kareem (Jackson) or a seventh-rounder with Derek Newton. These are young players that we feel like are still on the rise, that are getting better, that have a role on our football team, that are good teammates, that work hard, and that we see their level of play continuing to ascend. Whitney falls in that category, so he is a guy that we would absolutely love to continue to have here. That's something that is our intention. Whether or not we pick that up really is not as important as the fact that we want him around for a long time."
(on S D.J. Swearinger and the trade rumors about him) "I understand there is a report out there, but here's the deal. First of all, we make it a practice not to discuss negotiations publically, whether that's with an agent and a player or with another team with respect to trade opportunities. Those kinds of conversations are happening this time of year. There's a lot of information and misinformation out there and a lot of conversations that can be construed or interpreted a certain way. What I will tell you about D.J. (Swearinger) is he's a really good football player for us and he did a nice job last year in a role in our third down packages. He was really, really productive for us and we expect that he will do that again. I think D.J.'s abilities are even such that he can play a little bit more, even in the backend on some of the first and second down stuff. He really found himself a niche last year in some of our sub-packages, but I think he's also capable of doing some other things for us as well."
(on this year's wide receiver class in the draft and how it compares to the 2014 class) "I know that's a lot of the talk. It is a good class. There are several receivers and they're all different kinds. Whatever your flavor is, I think you can pretty much find it in this draft, whether you're talking about the big, tall, long guys that can run or the shorter, smaller, quick guys or the slot guys. There are a lot of different types of receivers in this draft class that are good and productive. How they compare to last year's group, we'll see once they get into this league, but it's a good group of players."
Take a look at DeVante Parker's football career at Louisville.
(on the process of picking between two players while on the clock if they are both are ranked high) "First of all, anytime you're on the clock and you have multiple players that you like, it's a good situation to be in because it allows you the opportunity and affords you the opportunity to maybe even move back if you've got multiple players up there. You can contemplate moving. But really at that point, if you've got equal players at a value that you find yourself, then you look at your roster. Then at that point, it's like we've talked about a lot of times when you talk about not drafting for need, but if you've got positions on your roster that you're either light at or that it's a position of need, and you've got two equal players and one of them fills that need then, obviously, that's the player that you would typically go with unless there are intangible things about one of the guys. Sometimes you just have conviction on players. If you've got a conviction on a certain player and even if he is not a position of need, and you're sitting there and you've got equal value on the guy, but you've got a real conviction about a certain player versus the other player than you'll go with your conviction."
(on if recent off-field issues can cause the team to re-evaluate prospects) "Your opinions about these men are not going to change in the next couple days. However, you are always, until the draft starts, still assessing information and gathering information. When incidents like what's happened over the last couple days with that young man (Missouri DE Shane Ray) occur, I don't know that they dramatically change your opinion about him, but it's certainly another piece of information that needs to be and should be considered."
(on reviewing prospects medical history and how comfortable he feels with that information) "First of all, I've got as much confidence or degree of confidence that I could potentially have in our medical staff. It starts with Geoff Kaplan, our head athletic trainer and our director of sports medicine, and Walt Lowe, our head doctor, and Dr. (James) Muntz is outstanding as an internist. I think that the information that we get, whether it's a player who attended the combine and has gone through that process or players that we bring here in town that necessarily don't go to the combine and then we have our physicals here. I have a high degree of confidence that we are getting good information and that it's thorough and that we have an idea of what these players medical conditions are. I feel great about that. I do think that a part of the process- these players understand how important that is. There are enough opportunities for us to evaluate and get the information that we need with respect to their medical histories that do give us that confidence."
Take a look at Todd Gurley's football career at Georgia.
(on prospects coming off ACL surgery and how the team feels about them) "I mean, I don't at this point like to talk too much about individual players. But from the standpoint of just generally speaking, ACL surgeries are pretty routine these days. Certainly, there are examples of guys who have come back and played at high levels. One of the things that goes into the evaluation process, a lot of times just depending on where a guy is in his rehab process, guys don't get back from ACLs for a year plus, so you may not see the same caliber player a year out from the surgery but then two years out from the surgery he may be back, or even better than he was before. There are instances where guys come back and they're playing at high levels that first year. It varies. It varies from case to case. Certainly, I don't let one instance effect another instance. You got to look at them independently. I think if you do that, if you look at them independently, and you evaluate the information in that particular case, it gives you an opportunity to make a good decision."
(on OLB Jadeveon Clowney and his status) "I'll let Bill (O'Brien) really handle the injury updates, but everything I have seen this offseason I have been encouraged and impressed with. He's doing well. All the reports that I've gotten are very positive. Yes, we expect that he will be a major contributor to our football team this year."
(on if the team feels comfortable with their group of offensive tackles after resigning Derek Newton) "I think I've said a lot of times that two positions you can never have too many are corners and tackles because it's just the way that this league is. I do feel really good about having him back in the fold. When you go back and look at the tape, Derek played at a high level last year. In addition to his play out on the edge, we had some injuries inside and he went inside and played guard. Really that versatility was something that was really good to see. I wasn't really sure that he could do that, but he was able to go in and function and really play at a high level inside as well. That was important thing for us and I was happy that we were able to get him back. Again, another young player, another ascending young player that we get to keep and that's what this weekend is about. This weekend is about identifying players in this draft that we think have a role and we've got a vision for them and understanding that's the way that we will build this roster and build a championship team, by having success Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and then those guys becoming the players that we think that they can become and then you keep those guys around. That gives you a chance to have some depth on your roster as well as success."
(on Florida State OT Cameron Erving) "I'm going to flip you back to my answer with respect to individual players, but what I will say is he is a versatile player, very versatile. He's played maybe all five spots on the offensive line. If you remember, one of the things we talked about and emphasized a lot last year was versatility throughout the roster, so players who could come in and do different things for your football team, whether it's a guy who can play inside at guard and outside at tackle, or a guy who can play both guard and center, or if it's a safety who has coverage ability and can maybe play some corner and safety. Guys who can do more things, as well as special teams, those guys are the guys that we're looking for. Guys that are intelligent, that work hard, and that are versatile. Those are the kind of players that were looking for."
(on evaluating a prospects impact on special teams and whether that counts as versatility) "I think that question is really specific to specialists. So maybe there's a spot on your team for a returner if a guy is dynamic enough to hold a roster spot if he is just a return guy. I think generally speaking what I'm talking about are guys who are good football players at their position who can do multiple things for your football team. The ideal scenario, for example, is maybe the corner who can also return punts or the wide receiver who can return punts or the running back who can return kickoffs as well in terms of in the return game. If a guy's dynamic enough and we think that he can change the field position, then we certainly have done that in the past and we will carry return guys. But really you're just looking for versatility throughout the football team."
(on if having three quarterbacks on the roster precludes the team from taking a quarterback in the first three rounds) "No, it doesn't preclude us from doing anything. No, not at all. It's a quarterback league. I think our quarterback position, as we stand today, is better than it was a year ago. I do think that the addition of Brian (Hoyer) was another important free agent acquisition and contract that I was very happy that we were able to get done because I watch him in this building. Just the competitive environment in the quarterback room, it's going to be fun to watch. Both those guys, when you talk about Ryan (Mallett) and you talk about Brian, they are competing every day. I think that it's an important year for Tom (Savage) as much as it's an important year for any of these guys. I talk a lot about the jump from year one to year two has to be exponential and I've expressed that from time to time because it's important. They understand the rhythm of the season. They understand how different pro football is from college football. They understand the demands. They have hopefully stabilized their life structures and have all those things in place. Some of the distractions that occur and happen to them as rookies, those things are alleviated. It's at this point that all those first to second-year players ought to be so much better and we expect that they make that jump. We're looking for that from Tom as well. However, that does not preclude us from taking a quarterback."
(on if he looks at depth at the position and players that he could get later in the draft when considering the best player available) "Well, no, I think you're talking two different things. If you're talking about the best player available, it's independent of your depth chart. If we're in an ideal scenario that was painted a little bit earlier and you're sitting there and you've got multiple players – let's just make it even better than what was described – you've got multiple players at a certain value in a round, then it's at that point that you can look at the depth of the draft, you can look at the depth of your football team, make good decisions that way. A lot of that is anticipation and that's some of the things we're doing now at this point. I've come out of the bunker now and kind of peeking my head up a little bit trying to figure out what are other people thinking about this draft class so that you can anticipate and make some of those decisions the right way where you give yourself a chance to maybe get multiple players."
(on if picking at 16 gives him that flexibility) "Yeah, I like 16. There's going to be a good player or two or three there for us to take, so it will potentially give us an opportunity to move back because I like our board. We probably have on average maybe a couple more players than typical that are rated in the first round. We never have 32 guys that are rated as first-round picks. We may have a few more guys this year rated as first-rounders. What I've discovered over the study over these last few days is I've really started to look at the board in its entirety is that it is a good spot, 16 is a good spot and it may give us an opportunity to make some moves."
(on the significance of adding a running back at some point in the draft) "Yeah, this is another – I was asked about the wide receiver group – I think the running back group, there are some good running backs in this draft as well. Again, it's one of the things that I've enjoyed about this process is we have a vision for the various roles and positions on our football team. There are different types of running backs. They're just like I described the different flavors of the wide outs in this draft; there are different types of runners. There are three-down guys, there are third-down guys, there are first and second-down guys, big power-type guys. We like them. Throughout the balance of the draft, there are good running backs as well."
(on what you look for in the pre-draft visits) "It's either one of two things. It's either a guy that did not attend the Combine and so you need to get a medical on him, you need to sit down a visit with him personally and get a feel for who he is as a man or it's guys that have been to the Combine that you need further study and further conversation or further medical study on. It's difficult at the Combine to really get to know a guy in 15 minutes. We have a process and we have a rhythm to those meetings and we try to get as much and gather as much information as possible. Sometimes you just can't. Our scouts do a great job of the background stuff. I think we have a good feel for a guy when he walks in the room. But if you can't vet through all the things you need to vet through, sometimes you bring those guys in. It's a good opportunity to really get to know the guy. He gets an opportunity to sit down with the coaches. You get him up on the board, you understand his football knowledge. It just gives you a better sense of who he is and a better idea of can he execute the things that you're going to ask him to execute when he comes into your building?"
(on if there is a scale of where you take a guy in the draft when considering his talent and character issues) "That's an interesting question. That whole idea, it's a fluid answer. Effectively, what you are trying to decide is if you are comfortable with a player in your organization, in your building, in your program. If you make the determination that he's not the kind of guy that fits into your group, then it doesn't matter where you take him. If he doesn't fit as a one, he wouldn't fit as a seven. There are some situations where there's a risk/reward conversation that's had where it's maybe too much of a risk early but then it's not so much a risk later. So there are two different things that you're describing. One is a guy that you say, 'Hey, we don't think that this guy fits our group. We're not going to add him to our group.' And that's a no. There's another risk/reward conversation that you have and maybe we would take the chance on the guy here but we wouldn't here. Those are the kind of conversations."
(on turning DE J.J. Watt's roster bonus into a signing bonus and what that allows the team to do in acquiring more players) "Well when we wrote the contract, that was something that was always, we were always going to do that when we wrote the contract originally. That wasn't something that we did in an effort to create more room. In effect, it did that but it was designed to do that from the time that we did it in the first place. Just as it relates to adding free agents, we will always continue to augment this roster and make it better. If there is an opportunity for us, whether it's via trade, whether it is to add a street free agent, whether it's to add an unrestricted free agent that's still out there, we will always look for ways and opportunities to increase the talent on the roster. The first opportunity post-draft is obviously the college free agents process. We just had a meeting in organizing that process. That's an important process because it can be a little bit chaotic at times because everybody's in the marketplace at the same time and everybody's competing for the same group of players, so you've got to be organized that way. We're working through that and developing that plan. Then after that, we've got a rookie minicamp and we've got our OTAs and we'll keep evaluating the roster and the guys that we bring in. If there are chances for us to go out and improve and get better players, then we'll do it."
Texans analyst and radio sideline reporter John Harris unveiled his top 100 prospects for the NFL Draft. (Photos courtesy of AP)
Combine Update: Good weekend for Williams, concluding with 4.97 40...34 reps on bench were one off the best of the DL...however, his COD and explosive drill measurements were below average...that said, he looked smooth, comfortable and, of course, powerful in his on-the-field drills...Report: Best interior defender in college football…love his ability to play in odd and/or even fronts…quick off the ball...nagging injuries got him a bit last year...can play the 3-tech in 3-4 under fronts or traditional over 4-3 fronts…can play him at 5-technique in 3-4 scheme...redirects well...creates havoc up the field...must continue to work on hand placement and interior pass rush moves
Combine Update: Gold watch and all, he ran a 4.60 at 261 pounds...the rest of his measurement day was average but that straight line speed at that weight is highly impressive...there will be no change on my Top 100 board as Fowler will stay at No. 2, even with more film watched over the past few weeks...Report: My friend is the sideline reporter for the Gators and he LOVES Fowler…strong season in 2013, even better in 2014…powerful and violent with his hands…love his versatility and burst…was dinged up and played through it…can play for me yesterday…love his scheme versatility…1st Team All-SEC in 2014…when the volume is turned up to ten, look out, he can take over a game
Combine Update: Outstanding workout on the field...blew teams away apparently in interviews...threw effortlessly and clean, just what teams wanted to see...thrived in the spotlight...at his Pro Day in Tallahassee, he threw as expected., even though some have issues with his physique...it's clear he can make every throw and make it look effortless Report: Physical characteristics NFL teams desire…accurate at all levels...does "sail" deeper intermediate routes - a lot of those throws fly away from him as his elbow dips slightly…incorrectly reads zone/man on occasion...slow starter, nearly dominant in the second half…awkward at times vs. rush…patient…high FB IQ…throws receivers open by throwing to open spots, anticipating a receiver to be in the area…much less accomplished 2014 season…seems obvious that he'll be the Bucs selection in late April.
Combine Update: Ran well at 4.42...had 33" vertical and 10' broad jump which was a bit disappointing...but his COD drills were outstanding 3.98 in the SS and 6.71 in the 3-cone...solid, expected workout...Report: Played hurt throughout 2013…downfield threat…wrote back in the spring that he needed to work on his route running for the 2014 season, he did that and then some…monster season in 2014…Heisman Trophy finalist…electric on short screens…high pointed ball well on fade routes…slippery with the ball in his hands…tends to lose concentration catching the football at times
Combine Update: Ran 4.52...showed the athleticism we knew he had...threw it well, not overwhelming...still looks a bit awkwards pressing away from center...solid weekend in Indianapolis though...Report: Smooth athlete…plus arm…durability concerns prior to 2014 campaign…throws well on the run…dangerous on the move…a bit frenetic in the pocket…goes through progressions but often too quick to allow a route to develop…smart and high football IQ…former Oregon coach Chip Kelly said he can adapt to any system, any time…played the last half of the 2013 season with a knee injury…fought through it but injury affected his play…gained 15 pounds in the 2014 offseason and it didn't hamper him…won 2014 Heisman Trophy…should be, and will be, in the discussion for the first pick in the draft
Combine Update: Ran 5.05 in the 40, then pulled his hamstring in on-the-field drills and missed the majority of the workout...at his Pro Day, 31 teams showed up to see him workout...32.5" vertical jump and improved to 23 reps of 225 Report: MAULER…just plain nasty…can zone block exceptionally well…moves up to second level…buries players at the point of attack…can get lazy and quit on plays at times…when he's locked on you, you're going down…will maintain pass block based on time clock in his head...massive power and explosion on contact...think he's more suited to play right tackle or guard...weight room freak...plays with perfect pad level...heavy handed...should be a top 20 pick
Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianpolis due to ACL tear in November...more I thought about it though, as a player, he needs to be a top ten on my top 100...he's just that good...Report: Closest thing to Adrian Peterson there is…power back with attitude…not much wiggle…durability concerns…finishes runs…one of two RB with a definite first round grade, even with the knee injury…tore his ACL in the Auburn game November…suffered some sort of injury each season at Georgia
Combine Update: The Combine's DL winner over the weekend...first, he weighed in at 246 lbs...then he threw up 35 reps at 225 pounds...then he ran 4.53...the he registered a 41" vertical...Ball. Game...he was the most impressive looking athlete on Sunday at the Combine, pure and simple...I worried about him at 235 but at 246 and that strong? Yeah, not so much...Thought he was coming out in 2014…even though he had a much decorated season, not sure the return truly improved his draft stock…pure pass rusher…must transition to 3-4 OLB…Most accomplished and diverse pass rusher in this conference...can win with speed or technique...great first step...decorated in 2014, won nearly every award a college defensive player could win
Combine Update: Didn't workout in Indy as he's still rehabbing from an injury suffered in his bowl game...his Pro Day at Mizzou came with some mixed reviews...ran 4.65 40-yd dash, 33.5" VJ but his COD times were nearly glacial...could indicate that his injured foot just isn't right yet Report: Crazy burst and explosiveness off the ball…makes everyone else on the field look like they're in slow motion…going to be a fast riser in 2015 Draft…doesn't square up when taking on blocks in the run game...turns his body to avoid full contact and often gets taken out of a play when he does that…watching the 2014 Cotton Bowl he didn't just pop off the screen, he exploded...question will be whether he can make the transition from 4-3 DE to 3-4 OLB...13 sacks and 22.5 TFL in 2014...never stops rushing, high effort, high motor
Combine Update: The offensive star of the Combine...ran official 4.35 in the 40, 36.5" vertical, 6.92 SS...hard to find the right comp at his size, speed and complete game...Report: Catches nearly everything…great ball skills…high points the football…reminds me of DeAndre Hopkins…snatches ball out of the air...showed a bit of wiggle and shake, fighting off defenders on a screen catch and run…ability to start, stop and accelerate in a hiccup is on a different level, wow...can lose concentration a bit
Combine Update: The buzz when the DL/LB weighed in was that Gregory only measured 235 pounds...he ran relatively well at 4.64 but it was his change of direction and quick twitch that was on display during the on-the-field work...36.5" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...still can only play 3-4 OLB but the athleticism holds up...tested positive for marijuana on his drug test at the Combine...combined with previous issues with failed tests at Nebraska, teams might have already taken him off their boards Report: Freakish athleticism…thought for sure he was going to declare for the 2014 NFL Draft as a third year sophomore…if he can stand up and play 3-4 OLB, he'll be a top 10 player, no questions asked…good length...rare DE that appears more explosive standing up than in a stance…like many current DE, he likes to use the stab maneuver...next level is to add a counter to the stab (rip inside, arm over)...something is holding me back on putting him in the top ten...something's lacking
Combine Update: Some were concerned what he'd run, even me...but he alleviated any fears with a 4.53 40 at 228 pounds...same size as Shaq Thompson and nearly .1 second faster...looked good with his hip turn and explosiveness in on-the-field drills...good weekend...1st Team All-SEC and 1st Team All-American in 2014...believed that he was on the verge of being one of the best overall defensive players Nick Saban's had at Alabama…don't feel that way after a good, but not great junior year...playmaker all over the field…solid in zone coverage with some range, not tremendous in man coverage…great tackler in space…more of a box safety or a combination box safety/dime linebacker prospect...in today's game, that position is so vital
Combine Update: 4.31...that's all that needs to be said about Waynes' workout...but the rest of it was strong as well...38" vertical and a 10'2" broad jump, in addition to his 19 reps of 225...just stellar money-making weekend for Waynes...Report: Did not finish his 2014 season with his best effort in the Cotton Bowl…competitive and long…played a bunch of quarters coverage, but within the scheme, a ton of man coverage…Size and potential will win a team over early in the draft…far from a complete prospect at this point but he plays press coverage like a beast.
Combine Update: Solid, expected workout...ran 4.52 in the 40, 35" vertical, 4.07 SS and 7.04 3-cone drill...he's not a 4.3, long speed guy but his in-the-hole speed and burst are outstanding...performed well in on the field drills...checked boxes, if he didn't blow anyone away...Report: Speed unlike we typically see at Wisconsin…runs hard between the tackles, but not his forte…excellent lateral quickness…won't get the edge like he does in college…insane burst though…the more I watch him, the more I think Jamaal Charles…showed tremendous pass blocking acumen, especially in the Outback Bowl …rushed for the 2nd most yards in a season all-time
Combine Update: Size, speed and strength were on display throughout his weekend in Indianapolis...4.44 in the 40, 42" vertical and 10'3" broad jump...such a raw player with a ton of growth potential...Report: JUCO transfer that didn't get a ton of offers out of high school…a true downfield threat…wants the ball in his hands…play maker after the catch…burst to run away from secondary when in the open…not completely polished product…comfortable and aggressive with the ball in the air…curious to see how he times at the Combine, but honestly don't really care he can play…he's tough…doesn't back down from a challenge (see the Washington game in 2014 v. Marcus Peters)…caught a season changing Hail Mary at USC to beat the Trojans
Combine Update: The Combine isn't really the place for a 339 lb. man...that said, he did vertical 30.5" which is highly impressive for a man that size...seemingly enjoyed the process throughout...put up 34 reps at 225...Report: Can play up and down the line…conditioning has been a factor…powerful at point of attack…moves very well for a 327 lb. man (uh, that's after a month of dieting, folks)…MUCH more stout at the point of attack…reminds many of Haloti Ngata…think Ngata was a more natural athlete but Shelton in that same vein
Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury he suffered during workouts prior to Combine...did run at his Pro Day...WOW. Ran a 4.2! Scouts were blown away, expecting him to be fast but perhaps not that fast...that time, alone, raised his stock..Report: Son of former NFL player Brett Perriman…has size and strength that next level receivers need…shone throughout the 2014 season…made Hail Mary catch for a TD to beat ECU in finale…finished season with season high nine receptions v. NC State in the Bitcoin Bowl…so explosive in everything that he does...running slant routes, he runs away from CB...v. NC State, he ran a stutter and go and when he went, he was shot out of a cannon…when he plants to cut, his next step creates huge separation consistently…must be more consistent catching the football, trust his hands and not let the ball get into his body
Combine Update: 4.45 in the 40, 17 reps of 225, 36.5" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...about what he did in the spring, an expected workout Report: Surprised that he didn't declare for 2014 Draft…get a Jarvis Landry vibe, but faster, from Parker…gets separation…excellent hands…high points the football…has to have better awareness of where he is on the field, especially in between the numbers...v. FSU, key 3rd/11 play, he ran his dig route at nine yards...does a great job setting up DB on his route...smart, precise route runner but can still work on it...didn't originally think he was a burner but he was clocked at 4.38 in the spring…did 17 reps at 225 pounds and a broad jump of 10'10".
Combine Update: Ran a decent 40 yard dash, top 1/3 in the OL group (5.18)..curious to see what teams think about the shape they think he's in...I see NFL OL bodies every day and his doesn't look like one...that said, he shone as one of the top five overall OL workouts...31" vertical and nealry 9' broad jump...Report: Five star recruit coming out of HS...started two seasons at left tackle...needs to be more under control...slides the arc well...athletic feet...must bend his knees more, drop his butt and develop a stronger base...powerful man who could be more with work on his technique/power stance…1st Team All-American in 2014…Honorable mention All-American in 2013
Combine Update: Didn't run as many expected...4.64 40 and didn't wow in the explosive drills as he only jumped 33.5" and a less than 10' broad jump...dominated the movements in the on-the-field drills...it wasn't a banner weekend but this guy can play a ton of different positions and play them well...Came to Washington as a safety…moved to OLB in 2013…thumper…needs to be more under control in space…4-3 WLB candidate…in 2014, he doubled as a running back…just an amazing athlete and one of the top 15 football players in the country…figure out what position suits him best and he'll shine
Combine Update: Clearly, he was the most athletic, smooth, powerful and light-on-his-feet OL...ran well, but he was light on his feet...only benched 225 lb. 21x and didn't have great explosive marks...movement drills, though, on the field were excellent...Report: One of the nation's top HS prospects a few years ago…runs hot and cold for me…he needed another year at LSU and it paid off…should be one of the top 3 tackles/OL off the board this May…will fit in a power scheme...doesn't have tremendous feet...gets overextended on speed rush...speed will hurt him significantly, mainly in pass protection...even though he had a solid week in Mobile, he needs to go to guard and star...strong upper body and mean
Combine Update: Came to the Combine at 307 lb., his heaviest weight...delivered a fairly solid workout...5.12 40 and a 31" vertical...saw a scout chide him for walking where he wasn't supposed to and Humphries just ignored it as if the scout didn't matter...mercurial sort who was a bit defensive in his interview session as well...Report: Declared for the 2015 NFL Draft after denying it two weeks prior to the deadline…light on his feet…needs a ton of work but he's an athlete, no argument there…strong…v. FSU DE Mario Edwards, on a pass play, Edwards initially shocked Humphries but as he continued, Humphries got back up underneath him and nearly put him back on his wallet…it was a WOW moment for me watching him…solid technique and footwork on the arc…does play a little tall and tends to lunge, instead of sinking his butt and hips…transition to E/T twist is excellent…gets initial shock on run blocks, doesn't finish them…guys like La'el Collins and Brandon Scherff want to bury DL, whereas Humphries does too much watching at the end of the play…speed rushers get a jump on him and his technique goes to, well, you know…that's expected though from LT in Pop Warner all the way to the NFL…carries his hands low on pass pro, would like to see them start higher and strike more accurately and effectively.
Combine Update: Uh, yeah...269 pounds running 4.56 with a 42" vertical and 11'6" broad jump? Unreal...he didn't do position drills but we all knew he'd get his combine freak on and he did...just wish his play completely matched his height, weight, speed dominance...Report: 9.5 tackles for a loss and seven sacks in 2013...explosive all-around prospect with scheme versatility...if he can prove that he can play 3-4 OLB, he's going to make some noise on day two in April/May 2015…he'll blow up the Combine - verticaled 40.5 inches and broad jumped over 11 feet…burst off the ball
Combine Update: Unfortunately, his 4.80 40 will pale in comparison to Beasley and Dupree...he didn't make significant noise in any one measurement drill and those that questioned his overall athleticism have ammunition...that said, his tape doesn't lie...did OLB drills after his DL workout was done...Report: Dominant in 2014…2nd in the nation with 18.5 sacks…registered 21 TFL…not a complete surprise but he still made significant progress…strong and long…good burst off the ball…if anything else, he can get to the QB…uses his hands very well, whether rushing or playing the run…variety of skilled hand movements (stab, chop, arm over, rip under)...grew on me in his career, did the same at Senior Bowl...watched him in individual and wasn't impressed then as the practice wore on, I was full-on focused on him...completely dominated team sessions at times throughout the week...last season wasn't an aberration...I'm higher on him than others but I think his best football is in front of him.
Combine Update: Ran 4.53 in the 40...had a solid overall workout and confirmed the fact that teams will have to truly understand what kind of professional he's going to be...37.5" vertical is strong, as is 10'1" broad jump...made the next few months very difficult for teams with a corner need in the first round...Report: Kicked off the team at Washington in 2014…wonderfully talented and mercurial with the coaching staff…perhaps more talent than any other player at his position…perhaps more question marks with attitude and such than any other at his position...plays press like a champ...doing it completely on athletic ability than technique...in fact, there's no technique at all...fun 1-on-1 film v. Arizona State WR Jaelen Strong.
Combine Update: Did not work out due to injury suffered prior to Combine...Report: 1st Team All-ACC in 2014…played in the shadow of current Baltimore Ravens DT Tim Jernigan…emerged this year and made a ton of plays forced a huge fumble late in the Clemson game that saved the season, essentially…strong, quick and disruptive at the point of attack…I'm left wanting a little more and not sure why
Combine Update: Didn't set the world on fire with his workout but it was solid....he ran 5.05 in the 40...put up 26 reps at 225 and nearly hit 30" with his vertical...with Eddie Goldman unable to work out, Brown took advantage with a good weekend...Report: Dominant 2014 season…highly productive when it mattered…from that perspective, he reminds me a bit of Travis Johnson…decorated season…strong lower trunk…
Combine Update: Ran a 4.61 and then didn't run his second 40, that was strange...then he jumped 38" vertically and 10'5" in the broad jump...his brother Mychal thrived at the Combine a few years ago and Eric did the same...would like to hear why he didn't run the second 40 but his 1st time was excellent...Report: Tackling machine…brother was a hot prospect out of Cal (Mychal, Philadelphia Eagles 2nd round selection in 2012)…rated as the highest prospect by pro services heading into the 2014 campaign…lived up to it…always around the football…plays the game with his emotions…size or lack thereof will work against him for some NFL teams…not totally sure where I'd want him to play…but he can and that's all that matters...Senior Bowl director Phil Savage not happy that Kendricks didn't handle his business well and sloughed off the Senior Bowl
Combine Update: Freak...4.62 at 267 lbs...25 reps at 225...39" vertical...10'7" broad jump...ridiculous workout...the medicals, which we won't see, will be scrutinized given his injury background, but the medical gurus didn't shut him down...Report: The Human Vowel had an outstanding 2014 campaign…injuries eliminated his 2013 season before it got started…smart…strong candidate to play 4-3 DE if his body holds up…rushed the passer very well throughout the season with a combination of burst, quickness and hand placement/use…finished the season with six sacks…tied for team lead with 11.5 TFL...little awkward in certain aspects of space movements but his power, wow.
Combine Update: Came in at just about 200 lb., which was great to see...ran 4.42 in the 40 which was a strong time for an inside/outside WR candidate...injured early in on-the field drills so he missed the rest of testing...Report: Declared early for the 2015 NFL Draft…received much more of the focus from opposing defenses this year…faced a bunch of single coverage in 2013, but USC staff did a great job finding ways to get him the ball…lined up in the slot, played the perimeter position…a little thin but can make plays on the ball down the field…hands are inconsistent
Combine Update: 35 1/8" arms!...2nd best vertical jump of all OL 32.5", but he was a basketball player so that shouldn't be too surprising...looked long and wiry on the hoof...ran decent 40 yard dash and moved well in the position on-the-field drills...solid weekend, especially after he did have some struggles at the Senior Bowl...Report: REALLY like Clemmings...plays with some pop at the point of attack...light on his feet, long arms, good punch and reach...powerful and drives defenders...the more I watched him, the more I really liked him...needs to anchor, drop his butt more in pass protection…his former QB Tom Savage spoke EXTREMELY highly of him and his potential (he should know, right?)...didn't have a tremendous week in Mobile...stood too tall at times and got beat by spin moves
Combine Update: The Senior Bowl was better for Davis than the Combine...he ran 5.07 in the 40 and his hands measured 11"...other than that, his measurements were ordinary...Report: 2nd-Team All-B1G in 2013…four TFL and 1.5 sacks in 2013…has moments when he's the most dominant player on the field…moments when you wonder where he went...Senior Bowl week was one in which he was the most dominant on the field...I moved him up a round after seeing him destroy, completely destroy OL in Mobile.
Combine Update: 20 reps at 225, 4.79 in the 40..caught the rock well in position drills throughout...talked to scouts/coaches that all have Walford ahead of Maxx Williams at this point...Report: Will mix it up in the run game…very physical, will bury smaller opponents…plays more like a Y-tight end than a joker/move H-back…excellent understanding in the zone running game when to bump off to the second level…reminds me of former Iowa TE C.J Fiedorowicz…can get vertical up the seam…the offensive star of the Senior Bowl...no one could cover him...improved his stock tremendously after that week
Combine Update: Solid workout...ran 4.57 at 221 pounds but the explosive drills, he was excellent...39" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...talked to more and more individuals that see him as the No. 3 RB off the board...Strong and quick…1,400+ yard rusher with 18 TD last year in 2013…averaged nearly 6 yards per carry behind an average Boise State OL…slippery with some shake…like his early day two prospects…ton of touches in 2014 (370), could be a question how much tread on the tire he has left…good jump cut and feet
Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury suffered during pre-Combine workouts...Report: Declared for the 2015 NFL Draft…wise decision…this guy is big-time…saw one part of one game and that's all it took to know he's special…saw the complete package throughout the season…powerful and productive back…runs a bit upright…averaged 7.5 yards per carry and 15 TD in 2014…rushed for 2,036 yards in 2014….a big-time home run hitter
Combine Update: This event is made for him...4.43 in the 40, 23 reps at 225, 41" vertical, 10'11" broad jump and sub 7.0 3-cone drill...a physical freak, which we already knew...just confirmed it...Report: Played with a bad knee all season…lacked the explosiveness in 2014 that he displayed in 2013…when healthy, he's freakish…doesn't catch the ball consistently…makes athletic, drops routine passes too often…has a 44 inch vertical leap...runs a legitimate 4.3 in the 40 and benches 400 pounds...strong after the catch...can high point the rock in jump ball situation...starred in Mobile, all week...THAT Coates is another faster DeAndre Hopkins
Combine Update: 4.74 at 271 pounds is excellent...34" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...even did OLB drills after the DL workout...Report: Outstanding senior year…similar to Trey Flowers (Arkansas)…more of a power end...showed quickness throughout Senior Bowl week...spent first day in Mobile adjusting...different overall player the rest of the week...long arms...now learning how to use them
Combine Update: Started the week winning the press conference...ran 4.78 in the 40 and had a 34.5" vertical...so effortless catching the football in all TE position specific drills...some will question his 17 reps on bench...Report: Arguably, best tight end in this class…smart move to come out now and capitalize on void at this position…athletic with the ball in his hands…solid competitor as an in-line blocker…love his ability to get open at nearly every level
Combine Update: Showed up at 237 pounds...not sure that's his ideal playing weight...still at that weight, he ran 4.49 40 and had a 6.89 3-cone drill...his explosiveness drills - vertical and broad were average given his physical size, strength and speed...caught it well...didn't wow many in the interview room with the way he handled difficult questions...good luck, NFL teams, figuring out what to do with him...Report: HUGE question mark off the field…closest thing to AJ Green that we've seen…booted from Missouri and transferred to Oklahoma for the 2014 season, although he was ineligible following his transfer…needed to see another great year to feel "top five pick" confidence…not at all sure what the future holds for one of the more talented players in the game…the character concerns could drop him off many teams' boards…acrobatic receiver who makes the difficult look easy…downfield receiver at worst…his own worst enemy
Combine Update: Comparable size wise to Arik Armstead (Oregon) but ran faster 5.03 and was much better in SS with a 4.19 and in 3-cone with a 7.20...his 10-yard split was on par with LB average and he's a 3-4 DE...Yet, Armstead gets the more run?...Interesting...great weekend for Anderson...Report: Prototype 3-4 DE…better athlete than you'd expect at his weight when healthy…knee injury cost him games last year…like him as a day two prospect with upside…thought there were times when teams just couldn't block him in 2014…had 14.5 sacks in 2014 from a myriad of positions and alignments...through the first two days of the Senior Bowl, I didn't see one interior OL that blocked him at all...love the versatility...I'm higher on him than others but if you saw him in Mobile, you couldn't help but to be impressed
Combine Update: This wasn't a great weekend for Dawson...he ran a 4.93 40 and that was the talk of the day (negative talk that is)...he plays much faster but that time will create doubt until he runs again at his Pro Day...at only 235 pounds, he has to show he can move and run but today was not that day...hopefully his TCU Pro Day will be...Report: LOVE Dawson…smart, physical and nasty…reads keys well and gets to the football in a hurry…can play all three downs…has some off the field baggage that could hurt him…this guy is a PLAYER and going to fit a team's NFL defense with his ability to play in different schemes
Combine Update: Excellent workout as he ran 4.40 in the 40, 35.5" vertical, 10'1" broad jump, 6.89 in 3-cone and 4.07 in SS...caught the ball well to complete the workout...Report: Three way threat (rush, return and receiving)…smart offensive teams will LOVE him…the best return guy in the mix…size of a slot receiver, ability to play inside or outside…excellent after the catch…blazing speed…gives me a definite Randall Cobb vibe…inside or outside, I'd take him in a heartbeat…burst and change of direction are outstanding...completely spun DB around at the Senior Bowl in one-on-ones...the comparison to Cleveland Brown WR Andrew Hawkins is apt...one of the biggest buzz players in Mobile
Combine Update: His numbers are just freaky...292 pounds, 5.10 in the 40, 34" vertical, nearly 10' in the broad jump...power in his on-the-field drills...he's getting closer but his game still needs improvement...his Combine doesn't...Report: At this point, he's still a project, but less of one than at the beginning of the 2014 season…it's evident he's still learning the game…was not a day two player at the start of the season…played with much more leverage and power…utilized his assets much more…still raw and struggled getting off good pass protection OL…hard to look away from speed, agility and quickness for a guy this size
Combine Update: Freakish athletically, that's for sure...4.52 in the 40, 41.5" vertical, 10'10" broad jump...his quickness, COD were amazing - 6.79 3-cone and 3.89 SS...wow!...as I mentioned his feet - they stand out...oh, and if you haven't seen the video of him doing a flip and catching a one handed pass, go find it ASAP...Report: Whoowee, he's got some quick feet…his backpedal is blazingly fast…long arms and very confident…break on the ball is outstanding…seven passes defensed in 2014
Combine Update: Strong workout for Erving...30/30 guy - 30 reps on bench and 30.5" vertical jump...didn't think he was in great shape but his workout proved otherwise...still think he needs to stay at center as opposed to tackle...Report: Think he's a tad overrated…going back to school was a good move, in my opinion, in 2014…mid-to-late day two prospect…knee bender…plays from athletic stance and position…overextends at times…moved to center late in the 2014 season and that's going to be his position, I'd imagine, going forward…could flourish at that position at the next level…not athletic enough to truly dominate the left edge
Combine Update: This guy is the worst kept secret in this class - he's going to be a star...he ran 4.48, jumped 36" vertically, 10'4" broad jump and his COD drills were outstanding - 6'77 in the 3-cone...Wow!...Great workout - made it look very easy...had minor foot surgery in early March, as such he missed his Pro Day workout on 3/27 Report: Shhhh…don't tell anyone about this guy…oh who am I kidding, this guy is fun to watch…can play corner…can play safety…not sure where I'd want him to play if I were a defensive coordinator…tremendous size for a corner…good tackler that can play either safety position…didn't get a first or second round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board but that didn't stand in the way of Collins declaring for the 2015 NFL Draft
Combine Update: A 30" vertical for a 329 lb. man is pretty impressive...other than that, there wasn't much to write home about for Phillips on Combine weekend...Report: Missed most of the 2013 season with a back injury…returned to start 13 games over the nose for the Sooners…athletic for being such a large human being...when in shape, he flashes on tape impressively...when he tires, he's useless, he gets reached, he gets moved...too inconsistent in my opinion...if he takes care of his body and is in good shape, he'll be a star at the next level
Combine Update: One of the Combine's anomalies...put up 37 reps but didn't show that power in on-the-field drills... in fact, he looked weak during the on-the-field work...that said, he's athletic as can be for a guy 329 lb...he didn't jump or do COD drills...Report: Third year eligible junior…essentially decided prior to the 2014 season that he would make himself eligible for the 2015 Draft…think he's probably more suited to be a right tackle…has plenty of nasty and athleticism…technique needs some work…powerful at the point of attack…speed off the edge gets him off balance
Combine Update: Ran 4.60 in the 40, 35" vertical, 10'3" broad jump, 7.07 3-cone drill...quite honestly, he put on a show but we expected that...his raw rush ability needs work but that's not the point of the Combine...Report: Arguably, the best pass rusher in the ACC not named Vic Beasley…a true OLB prospect…an exceptional athlete…has unmatched length, wow…has bulked up to 235 in the last three years (from 215 lb)…needs to learn hand placement and usage…can get lifted off his feet by stout offensive linemen…but wow, athleticism pops on tape
Combine Update: Only ran the 40 and jumped...ran 4.54 in the 40, 33.5" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...solid numbers...position drills were no match for his start and stop quickness...workout was pretty much as expected...Report: When he went down in 2013, Miami cratered…burst and explosiveness are the hallmarks to his game…toughness to run between the tackles…fumbles too much, in fact, he was demoted during practice…had a fumble to end the Independence Bowl…averaged over six yards a carry…runs behind his pads…ran back kicks…hasn't been asked to be a factor in the passing game
Combine Update: He put up 30 reps at 225 and had a 1.69 ten yard split...31" vertical...best part of his day was on-the-field where he shines so very much...Report: At the Senior Bowl, I interviewed him and looked down at him a shade, so he's right at 6'...stout but strong as an ox…quick and extremely difficult to block…plays with good leverage…son of former Atlanta Falcon great Jessie Tuggle...at Senior Bowl, there were times where OL didn't even touch him in 1-on-1s...can get swallowed up if OL gets hands on him
Combine Update: Like many of his CB counterparts, he put together a solid workout...4.57 at nearly 200 lbs. was a tad disappointing but his 40" vertical, 11' broad jump were Top 5 in the entire DB group...still think I'd put him at safety but that's just me...excellent weekend for the former Nole...Report: Love his length…2014 BCS National Champ. Game Defensive MVP…smooth athlete who changes direction exceptionally well...former high school safety who could star at safety when his corner time is up.
Combine Update: Thought the best part of Edwards' weekend was the on-the-field work...change of direction was outstanding...showed some power and burst...did put up 32 reps at 225...10' broad jump...good, not great weekend...Report: Faced Auburn's Greg Robinson in the 2013 BCS Championship Game and had moments where he dominated…dad played at Florida State and in NFL…true 4-3 DE but could play 5 technique in odd fronts on occasion…prototype 3-4 DE with ability to bump out to wide 9 in a 4-3...think he's better served in a role like JJ Watt's with the Houston Texans...plays with power and violence when motivated...worried that he only shows up when he wants…can apparently do a standing back flip
Combine Update: Ran 4.61 in the 40, but he crushed the COD and explosive drills - 42.5" vertical, 10'10" broad, 6.79 3-cone and 3.95 short shuttle...also came in at 205 lb...outstanding combine will put him in contention for No. 3 RB off the board...Report: 2nd leading rusher in Nebraska history (4,588)…has grown on me…In 2013, he showed me toughness, quickness, power and dependability (or maybe I just dropped the hate and gave him his due)…dinged up in 2014 in key games, still ran for over 1,600 yards…when healthy, he showed what he's capable of…good vision…excellent feet…fumbles were an issue in 2014...Senior Bowl Game MVP
Combine Update: Ran 4.46 in 40-yd dash, 38" VJ, 10' BJ, 6.83 3-cone and 14 reps of 225...Report: Florida native who ended up at ASU after a stint at Mesa Community College…triple digit tackles yet had 11 passes defensed…put in position to make a ton of plays given the aggressive nature of Todd Graham's defense…he'll blitz, play the middle, man up on a slot WR…quite frankly, he does a little bit of everything…think he's flying under the radar but a solid Senior Bowl performance put him front and center in a relatively weak safety class…ultra-aggressive in both pass and run defense…sometimes to his detriment
Combine Update: Outstanding weekend in Indy...second best 40 time of all OL at 5.01...32.5" vertical...light on his feet...still think he's got some work to do on his technique but the athleticism is there...Report: Missed two games this season and the Ducks only loss came in one of those...moved to LT this year...a ton of upheaval in Oregon's line this year and Fisher was the one constant…moves well...gets separation with his pass pro punch...reminds me a bit of Texan T Will Yeatman
Combine Update: He's a definite height, weight, speed guy...ran 4.66 at 246 pounds...went over 40" with his vertical (40.5")...went 10'1" in the broad jump...honestly, though, it worked to confirm what we knew...his on-the-field drills showed where he's stiff in the hips and not always fluid and smooth...going to be a polarizing discussion in teams' draft war rooms, that's for sure...Report: Has played inside linebacker at Mississippi State…better served to move to outside…that said, he has as much scheme versatility as any LB in this class…would love to see him at 3-4 OLB…would be a better Christian Jones if he did move to that spot…not sure he's a great space player but has the agility and athleticism to learn...not a truly instinctive ILB
Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury suffered during Rose Bowl workouts in December 2014...Report: Injured his knee in the lead up to the 2015 Rose Bowl…struggled a bit in man coverage, unlike in 2013…thought that his one-on-one film in 2013 v. former Oregon State star WR Brandin Cooks was as good as anyone's against Cooks that season…his play slipped in 2014 but he wasn't going to last long, especially with his ability to play the slot corner position…the injury, though, may scare a few teams away
Combine Update: Didn't run the 40 or do any measurement drills...did on field workout...nothing spectacular...Report: Top guard in this class…powerful…stout and athletic…can re-anchor against the bull rush…can maneuver to the second level…plays with good pad level…real good power base...does tend to get a wide base when bull rushed...moves laterally well...38 career starts
Combine Update: Checked all the boxes and made it look easy...4.44 in the 40 and 21 reps at 225...thought his on-field work was strong...flipped his hips well and smooth in all of his change of direction drills...Report: Looks taller than his 5'10"…has long arms…runs well with fast receivers…in 2014 Orange Bowl, he ran stride for stride with both Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant…consistently made plays in his senior season…breaks on the football well…not in the decision-making business (meaning...he'll strike at will)
Combine Update: 27 reps at 225 is excellent for any sized LB...ran 4.78 in the 40, 32" vertical and 9'5" broad jump...didn't do any other measurement drills...Report: Height isn't an issue for me…thick cut…explodes through the ball carrier…sees the game well at ILB…hits like a Mack truck…mid-to-late day two prospect at this point
Combine Update: Tom Carter's son ran a 4.51 at 196 lb...then jumped 40" with a 10'1" broad jump...17 reps of 225...he's one of my underrated players in this class...Report: One of the best tackling cornerbacks I've seen…love how he can make tackles in space…played most of the 2014 season banged up…didn't play up to the level at which he was in 2012 or 2013…the way that he tackles, I'd consider a move to safety…his 40 time and Pro Day times will indicate whether he'll stay at corner, get a shot to stay at corner.
Combine Update: Didn't know exactly what to expect from Prewitt but he ran a 4.60 in the 40...had solid explosive measurements - 35" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...Report: Big fan of Prewitt's…one of those guys that's always around the football…leader of the secondary…six picks in 2013 (nine in his career)…physical and a solid tackler…ballhawk who fills in the alley and tackles well...not the fastest safety but has excellent instincts...moves around the formation, plays some linebacker...solid in coverage on TE and RB during Senior Bowl week
Combine Update: Mixed results...ran 4.70 in 40, 38.5" vertical and 10'2" broad jump...speed is concerning for a receiver and there were bigger tight ends that ran faster...first comparison point is to Kelvin Benjamin but KB ran 4.61 last year...Combine results make his placement difficult for sure...Report: Moving to WR this year after acting like a TE for two years…perfect type player for the NFL, especially now that big receivers are in vogue…doesn't catch the ball consistently…makes the acrobatic plays look routine…something needs to click for him though to be the top 32 player his talent tells us he can be…success of big, physical receivers, especially in last year's draft (Kelvin Benjamin & Mike Evans) bodes well for him in 2014…athleticism off the charts
Combine Update: 4.86 in 40-yd dash with a blazing 1.68 10-yd split, 29" VJ, 9'2" BJ and 29 reps of 225...Report: Combination DT in even fronts, DE in odd fronts…declared a year early, a little bit of a surprise…doesn't hold up well v. double teams given the fact that he's less than 300 lb….quick feet and quick upfield…first off the ball consistently…plays too high…loses leverage and power base…strong hands when he fires them and he uses them well and often…rip under move is strong…when he's hip to hip with an OL, it's over…he can run and flies after the football on screens or runs away…will swim blocks and run himself out of a play when he should take on block and defeat the play (especially against TE)
Combine Update: Ran 4.45 in 40-yd dash with 1.57 10-yd split…39" VJ…10'5" BJ…sterling 6.70 3-cone (wow!)…3.97 short shuttle…excellent on field workout...Report: Houstonian (from Klein HS)…Honorable mention All-Pac-12 honors in 2014…14 passes defensed in 12 games…gut tells me he's a safety but played CB for most of the 2014 season…decent ball skills…inconsistent at cornerback but at least has that experience…registered 59 tackles in 2014…finished in the top four in tackles each of his first three years at Utah (6th on team in 2014)…played mostly safety at the Senior Bowl…that's probably his best position, to be honest.
Combine Update: Smooth...change of direction, flipping the hips - check that box...4.46 in the 40, 6.81 in the 3-cone...former baseball looked like the CF that he once was with his ability to track the rock and high point the interception in on the field drills...Report: Ball hawk…interception late in the win over Alabama got many people's attention…not many 5'9" corners have starred at the next level…certain teams will write him off the board just based on height...will need to overcome that "short corner" label…could play in the slot too…competitive and tough…likes to give space, even in press and close as ball is thrown...didn't overwhelm Senior Bowl with his play, but solid week...10 interceptions in 2014…16 in his career…played baseball at Ole Miss as well, drafted in the 8th round of the 2011 MLB Draft
Combine Update: Winner, winner…Jones crushed the Combine…12'3" BJ set a national record, not just for the Combine…44.5" VJ, 6.78 3-cone, 3.94 short shuttle and a sub-11 second long shuttle…incredible…for his Pro Day, he ran an unofficial 4.36 at Pro Day...Report: Height, weight, speed prospect…injured most of the 2014 season...shoulder injury ended his season in October 2014…gets caught in off coverage a bunch and not in position to break on the football consistently…prototype size in this league…32" arms, so the length is perfect.
Combine Update: Set records in the COD drills...3.98 in SS, 6.93 in the 3-cone...outstanding physical skill...average passing workout, in my opinion...went back to watch a few games prior to Combine and it didn't change my thoughts on him at all...Report: Smart to return for 2014…sprayed it for most of 2013…has all the physical attributes - size, arm strength, speed and quickness…intermediate passing game needs a ton of work/consistency…thought more about NFL seemingly than 2013 season and it showed…has thrown and/or run for a TD in every game as a starter…much better overall season in 2014…took too many sacks though and started focusing more on the rush than keeping his eyes downfield…case in point, he was sacked ten times v. Utah and he shared in the blame for many of them…completed 69% of his passes but went to his legs a bit more in the second half of the season
Combine Update: I hoped that Anthony would shine in Indy and he did...it was Clemson LB day with Beasley and Anthony taking the day...he ran 4.56, hit 37" on his vertical and 10'2" with his broad jump...COD drills - 4.03 on his SS and 7.07 3-cone drill...excellent weekend for Anthony...Report: 121 tackles and 13.5 TFL in 2013…led the nation's number one defense with 75 tackles in 2014...runs very well for a 245 pound man…still needs to be more violent, running through ball carriers…that said, he's a solid tackler...saw a ton of progress with play recognition and key reads…liked what I saw throughout the season...really liked what I saw at the Senior Bowl...was one of the defensive stars of the week...got a bunch of people's attention
Combine Update: Didn't work out due to injury he suffered (and played through the entire season) during the year...Report: Thought to be the best safety on the West Coast…three year starter…ball hawk who'll mix it up physically…moves all over the defense…plays decent half coverage…excellent football instincts…probably late day two guy given his under 6' size…but he can play...missed the 2015 Senior Bowl with a sports hernia...played the majority of his senior season with that injury.
Combine Update: Perhaps the most impressive OL performance, on top of a strong Senior Bowl week...ran the best OL 40 and the only sub-5.0 time - 4.98, 30.5" vertical, 9' broad jump, 30 reps on the bench...pop and power in positional drills...should've been on my initial top 100 but he's there now for certain and to stay...Report: DIII player who dominated that level of competition...strong at the point of attack...held up to bull rushers at the Senior Bowl...slid well with speed rushers...one of the best performances by an OL at the Senior Bowl...could see him moving to center and being a 12-13 year mainstay for a team in the near future.
Combine Update: Ran 4.57 40-yd dash with 1.61 10-yd split and did 25 reps of 225…at Pro Day, 36.5" VJ and 10'10" BJ Report: LOOOOONG…his length will give tackles problems…had solid day against A&M T Jake Matthews in 2013…loads of potential, but pass rush skills need a lot of work…led the Tigers with 13 TFL in 2014…doesn't have a tremendous first step, but his length helps make up for it...sculpted physique, allegedly he has only 2% body fat…not a quick twitch player but he's awkward to block effectively…had 13 TFL, but only 1.5 sack, indicating his ability to make plays v. the run...has length to rush the passer, speed to rush the passer, but doesn't rush the passer well...that dichotomy I'm still trying to figure out...when something doesn't jive like that, I'm not willing to spend a 1st/2nd round pick on a guy like that...has to put it all together to be a complete OLB/edge player.
Combine Update: Didn't work out due to injury he suffered during 2014 season...Report: Moved to left tackle this year, following in the Jake Matthews-Luke Joeckel footsteps…excellent lateral quickness…needs to show he can anchor against bull rush…his 1-on-1 with Auburn star Dee Ford last year was the best 1-on-1 film I watched in 2013…top 15 player…BUT, that was before the 2014 season started…highly disappointed in his play...against ULM, he just quit on blocks...in pass protection, he started with good feet, kick stepped and slid...honestly, I wouldn't give him a third round grade right now...TORE HIS ACL AT SOME POINT IN 2014 SEASON
Combine Update: 4.53 in the 40 was a bit eye-opening as I expected a definite 4.4 number from him...his COD drills were outstanding though - 6.88 in the 3-cone, 4.12 in the SS...that was more in line what I expected from him...Report: Speed…pure speed and quickness…In 2014, though he showed the full gamut of skills…showed he had the burst to be a catch and run receiver…ran good intermediate routes…physical for the ball…gives me a bit of an Odell Beckham Jr. vibe…some have compared him to former Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin Harrison…trustworthy hands…total gamer…slight but tough
Combine Update: I'm telling you, this guy doesn't get enough attention...ran 4.53 at 221 pounds...35.5" vertical, 10'1" broad jump are both strong...sub-7.0 3-cone drill is outstanding...he's going to sneak up on people, but he can play...Report: One of my favorites at the running back position, beyond the obvious names Gordon & Gurley…one cut downhill runner who can excel in ZBS, power scheme or combination…
Combine Update: Listened to his interview in the media room and it was outstanding...intelligent, competitive...asked whether his intelligence was going to be a problem and he handled it well...strong and quick throughout all of his drills...Report: Best interior player Duke's had in a while…I think he could play either guard or tackle…agile with requisite power at the point of attack…vocal leader…hasn't played a ton of football in his life moving to the United States (from Jamaica) when he was 10…spent his formative years playing soccer, which is evident in his footwork…complete young man who spent May 2012 in Ethiopia for a water well-digging project
Combine Update: 4.57 in the 40 and a 36.5" vertical...solid numbers...wasn't the best workout and he hoped to be in the 4.4 range but for a 195 lb. corner, it was good enough...Report: 2014 MAC Defensive Player of the Year…uh, yeah, that was after playing point guard for the basketball team for four years…long arms…excellent hip turn…the athletic stuff comes natural…would love to see him at free safety than at corner but he needs some time to work on his game at CB…technique (obviously) is lacking…keep in mind that he only played one year of FBS football and can do THIS?!?…up and down moments at the Senior Bowl...still needs work on his press coverage technique...ball skills and COD are off the charts good.
Combine Update: Longest arms of the DE (34 1/4")...28 reps of 225...thought he showed some strong change of direction skills in on-the-field drills...shined in the vertical with 36.5" and 10'1" broad jump...continues his rise up boards...Report: When watching Arkansas tape in 2013 for former Hog DE Chris Smith, Flowers was the one that stood out…2nd on the squad with 5.0 sacks and led the team with 13.5 tackles for a loss in 2013…adept at using his hands…excellent hand placement and use for a young player…loves to use the stab move when rushing the quarterback…had an even better 2014 and stood out nearly every game I saw him play in 2014
Combine Update: Not a tremendous workout, but he can play...nothing stood out...thought his quickness drills would be much better, given the fact that he is a start and stop dynamo but they were average (7.17 in 3-cone & 4.32 in SS)...Report: Stereotyped as the consummate slot receiver…moved all around the formation for Duke…dynamic after the catch...stop on the dime quicks...quick as a hiccup...still like him as a slot candidate at the next level, but not as a slot only…excellent punt return skills as well...caught 108 passes in 2013...finished the 2014 season with 85 receptions for 1,044 yards and six touchdowns…was a Senior Bowl standout...not one DB had success against him in the slot or on the perimeter
Combine Update: Rave reviews throwing the ball...effortless release...more than looked the part throwing to WR on Saturday...moved him into Top 100 based on re-watching last half of season...much more comfortable and productive...QB coach George Whitfield couldn't say enough about him...making bid to be No. 3 QB off the board...Report: Quick release…threw the ball downfield accurately in 2013…plays the game too fast on occasion…throws easy, catchable ball…doesn't throw entire route tree…2013 1st Team All-Big 12…threw at least two TD in every game…7th in Heisman voting in 2013…however, didn't have a stellar 2014 season…production was there as always…hurt his back and neck this year and that seemingly hurt his accuracy…didn't throw the deep ball well at all until the bowl game…pressure impacted him more than it should have…has a 38 inch vertical leap…probably a late day two option given his early struggles in 2014
Combine Update: Pulled his hamstring 35 yards down the way on his first 40 and that was it for the day, unfortunately...really wanted to see him work out...Report: Had an outstanding season for the Gophers…patient and powerful…burst to the second level…may not have tremendous long speed, but who cares…durable and tough…motivated back who creates chips to put on his shoulder, I like that
Combine Update: Didn't ever think I'd hear people call a 4.42 disappointing but that's what most thought about Smith's 40 yard dash time...I'm not losing sleep over it because he plays at 4.42 on the field...strong explosive drill measurements - 39" vertical and 10'2" broad jump...didn't gain or lose with his Combine performance...Report: The human 9 route…will be a big-time outside the numbers receiver…averages nearly 28 yards per catch...truly the biggest home run hitter in this game...outstanding downfield ability...needs work inside the numbers on the complete NFL route tree…outstanding athlete and tremendously athletic with the ball in the air
Combine Update: Didn't work out other than doing the bench (17 reps at 225)...Report: Lead the nation in interceptions (14)…no tackle, loves to cover safety…doesn't wrap up at all…did have a shoulder injury in 2013 that still lingers it appears…left the Belk Bowl after throwing his shoulder into UGA RB Nick Chubb…going to be a polarizing prospect given his immense ball skills and horrid tackling ability/desire…covers space in a hiccup.
Combine Update: Money making day for Smith...ran 4.45, hit 36" with his vertical jump, 10'4" in the broad jump and 6.96 in the 3-cone...fluid and explosive during on the field drills...Report: 2nd Team All-CUSA in 2014…1st Team All-C-USA cornerback in 2013...three year starter…second nationally in pass defensed…plays with south Florida confidence…...competitive and showed that at the Senior Bowl.
Combine Update: Slow 40 time and did not thrive in Combine event environment...he's not a Combine warrior to stay the least...was Sr. Bowl MVP...Report: Plays angry with a powerful base...footwork is sloppy...defenders cannot move him on pass rush...best chance to beat him off the ball is with quickness...if he gets hands on you, forget it…can get off balance moving laterally in pass protection...zone scheme footwork needs work...power game is off the charts…in 2013, UF DE Dante Fowler wreaked havoc against FSU OL with the exception of Jackson - the FSU guard stoned him each time he looped/stunted inside…was not impressive in 2014…unable to consistently stay on blocks…pass protection was shaky…seemed like a complete and total different player in 2014...solid Senior Bowl week, improved each day though
Combine Update: Showing up in Indianapolis at 298 lb. was a surprise, as was his 5.00 40 yard dash...I didn't put him in my first version of the Top 100...should have...been a fan for a while and Combine solidified that belief in him...not sure where exactly to play him but he has enough ability to "draft him and figure it out" late on day two or early day three...Report: A last second add to the 2015 NFL Draft class…thought another year in the SEC would be huge for him…that said, he can play…shorter and more stout…quick and slippery
Combine Update: Like many TCU players, didn't run a strong 40 - finished with a 4.60, but rest of the workout was solid...36.5" vertical, 10'4" broad jump, 6.97 in the 3-cone and 3.96 in SS...nice recovery during the rest of the day...the 40 time will stand out for a corner his size so his Pro Day results is now hugely important for some teams...Report: Like his cover skills...tiny though...could be slot cover corner candidate at the next level…competitive and challenges the best receiver on the other side of the field…1st Team All-Big 12 in 2014…catalyst in the best secondary in the Big 12 in 2014…
Combine Update: Ran a 4.90 40 and looked stiff in on-the-field drills...didn't do any other measurements outside of the 40...Report: Consummate size and power to play 4-3 defensive end…true difference maker on the edge…needs to be more consistent with his hands, given his power...came to Mobile very confident but didn't excel like he did in senior season at Missouri
Combine Update: Didn't work out as he's rehabbing from a season-ending injury...Report: As intriguing a prospect as any…he was a pitcher on the baseball team (stopped playing in March to focus on football)…has the perfect size to flourish in the NFL…plays for a team running the option…only two years in college football…as such, hard as heck to project his receiver skills/attributes with so little experience in an option offense
Combine Update: 4.33 40 which was a tad slower than he expected, although the expectations were through the roof for this kid...37" vertical and 10'2" broad jump but his COD 3-cone drill was awesome (6.70)...Report: Can fly, but didn't play at that speed during his career unless he was running the nine route…didn't always catch the ball cleanly…ran the nine route and not much else until the Senior Bowl…was the buzz of Mobile...was a completely different player down in Mobile...played at a different rate than everyone else...has me confused which player he is...if he's the one that played in Mobile, he's a bigger T.Y Hilton...if he's not, he's Jacoby Ford
Combine Update: Flew through the 40 - 4.41...excellent overall workout - 38" vertical, 10'2" broad jump, sub-7 3-cone drill...the game looks easy and it's hard to imagine that he couldn't have helped an FBS team...either way, he's a solid day 3 candidate in an outstanding receiver group...Report: Rock star of the 2015 Shrine Bowl…does jaw dropping things with the ball in the air…massive catching radius for a guy just a shade over 6'1"…wins most 50/50 balls…smart, crafty route runner…didn't, obviously, face top competition but in 2013 faced West Virginia and went over WVU defenders twice for deep downfield catches, big-time catches
Combine Update: Did not workout due to an injury...Report: Can play three technique in either even or odd fronts…can play the 5-tech in odd fronts…strong finish to the 2013 season…one of the top interior linemen in this draft class...a true under tackle, 3-technique in even fronts...could excel as a 4/5 technique in odd fronts...that versatility will do wonders for him come April/May in the 2015 NFL Draft
Combine Update: Ran a 4.61 40 which was about average within the RB group...36" vertical and 9'9" broad jump...average workout for Yeldon but solid 3rd season playing through injuries will get more attention...Report: Sweet feet and runs hard…vision is questionable…productive behind a good line…showed a ton of toughness during the 2014 season…played hurt (ankle, in particular) and ran hard…excellent receiver out of the backfield…don't think he truly sees running lanes but he's grown on me a bit…complementary back at this point, not a game changer
Combine Update: Did on the field drills but didn't do any measurement drills...the stiffness in his hips is more evident in movement drills but his hand usage/technique isn't on display in these drills...will test during his Pro Day...Report: 13 sacks in 2013…played majority of the time with his hand in the dirt…has to prove he can drop to play 3-4…relentless…intelligent - All-Academic Pac-12 in 2013…best pass rusher Washington's had in years…possesses athleticism to move to 3-4 OLB...redirects explosively...plays the game with his hair on fire...low center of gravity...when he dips the shoulder, tackles struggle to get hands on him...one of the nation's leading sack artists...agile feet and stays upright...didn't completely dominate the Senior Bowl...stiff in space...former judo champion, so he knows how to use hands effectively
Combine Update: The Combine is not his playground but I liked the way he moved...talked to him 1-on-1 and said he'd like to play guard but played T because Utah needed him there...Played LT at Utah…best position is guard at the next level…stout and a huge, think trunk…a little stiff but he's a house that can move...needs technique work but he could be the next Mike Iupati
Combine Update: Excellent Combine for Tartt...4.53 in the 40, 35.5" vertical (for a 221 lb. safety) and 10'4" broad jump...this isn't a great safety class so that workout could put him in the discussion to be the second safety off the board in April/May...Report: Didn't start playing football until his senior year in high school…sprained his ankle getting rolled up on during the Auburn game…good range…will drop the hammer, WOW…excellent tackler, great technique - drops tail, keeps head up and WRAPS UP consistently.
Combine Update: Ran 4.49 in 40-yd dash, 19 reps of 225 (strong!), 34.5" VJ, 9'7" BJ, 4.07 short shuttle and 6.88 3-cone...Report: JUCO transfer prior to his junior year in 2013…teams were smart attacking him as a senior in 2014…tough and an intense competitor…footwork on his backpedal is odd…he false steps forward when in off coverage…that "hitch" has to change…man, can he drive on the football…even in off coverage, he matches cuts and ends up in WR hip pockets…physical tackler when he wants to be…picks and chooses his spots when to make "wise" business decisions…opens hips too soon on press coverage, which opens gate for slants/inside routes
Combine Update: Ran a 4.50 in the 40...didn't really stand out with any other measurements...doesn't matter though, he was smooth and fluid in COD on the field doing DB drills...one of my underrateds in this draft class...Report: 12 interceptions in two years as a starter…great instincts and ball skills…uncanny knack for reading routes and breaking on the ball…love his prospects…smooth athlete with closing speed and good hip turn…he can fly…teams won't throw at him this year, so don't expect seven interceptions again.
Combine Update: Didn't get a ton of attention for his Combine workout, still had decent weekend...he ran 4.83 in the 40...other measurements were good, not great...Report: Intriguing skill set…good redirection and change of direction…runs well…plays extremely hard…not sure he can be a true 3-4 OLB…decent with his hands…needs to be even more violent but plays with good power…showed more burst and explosive abilities at the 2015 Shrine Bowl than I can remember seeing him display all season long…needs to refine his pass rush techniques - rip under to get free, in particular…think he's a 4-3 LDE, more of a power end but man, seeing him rush the passer at the Shrine Bowl encouraged me a bit...then he went to the Senior Bowl and had an even better week...starred throughout...stiff in space but other than that he proved he's worthy of a top 100 spot.
