Senior Bowl Wrap-Up

A closely-contested ball game with more than a few standout performers. A recap of the game can be found at the link below:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3216294

When including performance from this past week's practices, it is arguably the case that the prospect who impressed the most in Mobile, AL was QB Chad Henne of Michigan. Henne reportedly recorded a great week of practice, showcasing his terrific arm strength and accuracy on post, slant, and deep routes. In addition, Henne seemed to develop good chemistry with his teammates while maintaining good command of the huddle. Henne also didn't fumble any snaps during practices, a problem that plagued QB's Joe Flacco (Delaware) and John David Booty (USC). With 2 TD passes in the game itself, Henne may have solidified himself as no worse than an early Round 2 selection in this year's Draft, and if QB Andre' Woodson does not improve his now-falling "stock" in workouts to come, the former Wolverine QB may become the 3rd overall QB selected in the 2008 Draft.

Other players reported to have impressed in Senior Bowl practices and/or the game itself:

Justin Forsett, RB, California
Lavelle Hawkins, WR, California
Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Keith Rivers, LB, USC
Sam Baker, OT, USC
Fred Davis, TE, USC
Owen Schmitt, FB, West Virginia
Trevor Laws, DE, Notre Dame
Kellen Davis, TE, Michigan State
Erik Ainge, QB, Tennessee
Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
Tashard Choice, RB, Georgia Tech
Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU
Xavier Adibi, LB, Va. Tech

I won't go into detail about every prospect who didn't perform well, but on the whole, it seems that the player who did the most damage to his "stock" over this past week was QB Colt Brennan of Hawaii. Even more than his sub-par performance in the game itself, Brennan reportedly had a miserable week of practice, as he struggled mightily making the transition from a Shotgun formation (which he operated out of in June Jones' "Run & Shoot" offense while in college) to a classic, pro-style 3-5 step drop. There were repeated instances when coaches (in particular new 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Martz) made Brennan perform routine QB duties over and over again until some level of satisfaction on their part was reached, and Brennan also struggled with accuracy on his throws. Moreover, Brennan, already a rather skinny individual by nature, reportedly checked in at shocking 185 lbs. If he is to play in the NFL for some time, Brennan will need to sport a frame weighing at least 210 lbs., otherwise, the same durability issues that cropped up throughout his Senior campaign and especially in the Sugar Bowl against Georgia will continue to haunt the former Heisman Trophy finalist. As of now, Brennan stands as no better than a late-round Draft pick.

Prospect Injuries

During this past week (Senior Bowl practice week), a number of players sustained injuries which will likely prevent them from playing substantially (if at all) in this Saturday's Senior Bowl game:

Early Doucet, WR, LSU (pulled hamstring)
Limas Sweed, WR, Texas (wrist)
Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan (lower leg/back)
Jamar Adams, S, Michigan (Achilles heel)
Owen Schmitt, FB, West Virginia (knee)
Kirk Barton, OT, Ohio State (back)

Furthermore, though he is not participating in the Senior Bowl, Wisconsin CB Jack Ikegwuonu (an early entrant) suffered a tear of his ACL while engaging in his own pre-Draft training. The tear, which will be operated on within the next two weeks, is a setback to the former Badger standout's 2008 Draft prospects, and may ultimately result in placement on the "PUP" list to begin the 2008 NFL season.

QB's Ryan, Brohm Out of Senior Bowl

The consensus top-2 Quarterbacks in the 2008 NFL Draft - Matt Ryan (Boston College) and Brian Brohm (Louisville) - have both decided not to participate in the Senior Bowl, held annually in Mobile, AL.

While surely disappointing for scouts, coaches, and GM's who plan to be in attendance both during Senior Bowl practice week and the game itself, these sorts of decisions are not uncommon with respect to Draft prospects who already rate as very high picks. In addition to avoiding any injuries that could hamper individual workouts they will hold, the goal of Ryan, Brohm and their agents here is to not give NFL teams any reason to regard them less highly in this year's Draft.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/01/20/seniorbowl/index.html

2008 Draft - Official Early Entrant List

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d80603d33&template=with-video&confirm=true

*Note: For the most part, there aren't any significant early entrants in this year's Draft that declared "under the radar," so to speak. If there is one rather "unheralded" early entrant to keep an eye on, it is Purdue University WR Selwyn Lymon, a talented but troubled athlete who was dismissed from the Boilermaker football program not too long ago for an array of off-the-field issues. Obviously, pre-Draft interviews (more than workouts) will play a monumental role in determining when Lymon is selected this year (if at all).

Prominent Juniors Returning to School

Three prominent Juniors have decided to return to school for their Senior seasons after initially declaring for the 2008 NFL Draft:

Clemson University RB James Davis will rejoin Sophomore phenom C.J. Spiller in the '08 Tigers backfield. The explosive Davis was projected to be selected anywhere from the middle of Round 2 through the end of Round 3 in this year's Draft. In returning for his Senior season, Davis stands a terrific chance to be selected in Round 1 of the 2009 Draft.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3203333


University of Mississippi OT Michael Oher has had a change of heart, and will also return for his Senior year. The mammoth 6'5," 325 lb. Oher was projected to be a late Round 1 selection in this year's Draft, and by returning to the Rebels in '08, Oher will have the chance to further polish his pass-protection skills and possibly earn himself an overall top-10 grade for the 2009 Draft. Count on this OT being a consensus First-Team All-American next season!

http://www.olemisssports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=12792&SPID=737&DB_OEM_ID=2600&ATCLID=1369878


Virginia Tech CB Victor "Macho" Harris will return to a much-depleted '08 Hokie Defense. Harris' decision is a sound one, as he will have more of the spotlight on himself and his elite-level athletic ability and all-around ball skills next season. Harris was likely a Round 3 selection this year, and an improved Senior campaign could vault the Hokie DB to Round 1 of the 2009 Draft.

http://virginiatech.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=761765


*As these players no longer remain in the "pool" of talent available for this year's Draft, their prospect write-ups have accordingly been deleted from the archives of this blog.

Official Early Entrant List Coming Soon

The deadline for collegiate underclassmen to declare for the 2008 NFL Draft has now passed, and sometime later on this week, expect the NFL to release an official list of Early Entrants. As past years indicate, there are always a few "surprise" entrants who declare for the Draft without much fanfare or confirmation to the press. Accordingly, I will be sure to post a link to the official declaration list as soon as it becomes available.

Star Cal Wideout Heads to NFL

California Junior WR DeSean Jackson has decided to forgo his Senior season, and enter the 2008 Draft. To be sure, the only concern that NFL Scouts and GM’s have with Jackson is his rather small frame (5’11,” 172 lbs.). In all other respects, Jackson rates as an elite-level prospect who will likely be the first WR chosen in this year’s Draft. Blessed with extraordinary speed (which should result in a 40-yard dash time in the 4.27-4.35 range), Jackson will be a versatile player for the team that drafts him, providing regular contributions not only in the receiving department, but also in the Punt and Kick Return areas, as well as the occasional end-around carry. Jackson is a potent deep-threat TD machine who left opposing DB’s in the dust numerous times over his 3 years as a Golden Bear, and he possesses reliable hands to boot. Jackson’s all-around athletic ability is readily apparent, as he has had notable success playing baseball both in high school and while in college. In a Draft quite deep at WR, it is a bit difficult to predict exactly when the first NFL team in the market for a wideout will “pull the trigger,” but the odds are in favor of Jackson being off the board by pick #20.

http://calbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011508aaa.html

Third Sooner Junior to Enter NFL Draft

University of Oklahoma Junior CB Reggie Smith has become the third Sooner underclassman to leave school early and enter this year’s Draft. The 6’0,” 196 lb. Smith is a good cover corner who brings a physical style of play to the field. Logging 78 tackles to go along with 3 interceptions and a fumble recovery returned for a TD this past season, Smith’s overall performance was good enough to earn him consensus First-Team All-Big 12 honors. Smith has also contributed on Punt and Kick Returns, demonstrating very good open-field explosiveness in the process. If the toe injury that kept Smith out of the Fiesta Bowl heals in enough time for the Sooner DB to participate in pre-Draft workouts at full speed, Smith stands a good chance to record a 40-yard dash time in the 4.40-4.45 range, and such a mark, when coupled with Smith’s excellent leaping ability, may very well result in an early Round 2 selection for the Oklahoma native.

http://oklahoma.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=762176

Sooner LB Lofton to Leave School Early

University of Oklahoma Junior LB Curtis Lofton will follow his teammate, Junior WR Malcolm Kelly, out of Norman and into the NFL. The highly-recruited home-grown product exploded in 2007 with a whopping 157 tackles, earning consensus All-American Honors as a result. Lofton set an all-time school record with 9 double-digit tackle games this past season, including a remarkable 18 tackle performance against Missouri during his team’s first meeting with the Tigers in ‘07. Though only 6’0,” Lofton has a well-built frame at 238 lbs., and possesses outstanding sideline-to-sideline speed. What stood out to me most this past season was the ease with which Lofton shed blockers while moving up the field. Lofton’s tackling technique is fundamentally sound, and if fully motivated, the Sooner LB looks like he could be a future Pro Bowler as an ILB. The prediction here is that Lofton will be chosen in Round 2 of this year’s Draft.

http://soonersports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011408aaa.html

Two More Early Seminole Departures

Florida State Juniors, QB/Athlete Xavier Lee and DT Letroy Guion, will both forgo their Senior seasons and enter the 2008 Draft. Once a big-time in-state recruiting coup for the Seminoles, the 6’4,” 235 lb. Lee has not lived up to expectations as a QB for a variety of reasons, most notably the fact that he did not receive/earn consistent playing time with soon-to-be Senior QB Drew Weatherford atop the team’s depth chart. When he was given significant playing time, the athletic, multi-talented Lee was reasonably successful at generating offense for his team both through his strong arm, and especially his speedy legs. During his time in the program, Lee had a knack for creatively scoring TD’s after leading his team into the Red Zone, and his presence in the huddle seemed to positively affect Junior RB Antone Smith. While it is unlikely that Lee will ever play QB in the NFL, his raw speed (which could very well be in the sub-4.4 range) and athletic ability will likely earn him a Draft selection in Rounds 4-6, with the team that drafts Lee expected to utilize his play-making abilities in the return game on special teams, and possibly in a WR role as well.

The 6’4,” 295 lb. Guion had 31 tackles this past season, including 6.5 for a loss. Academic struggles appear to have played a major role in Guion’s decision to leave school early, and while the 2008 Draft is very deep at both the Defensive Tackle and Defensive End positions, Guion does have good size and enough “upside” to merit a look from NFL teams sometime during the middle rounds.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3195763

RB Jones to Join McFadden in NFL

University of Arkansas Junior RB Felix Jones will follow his teammate, Junior RB Darren McFadden, out of Fayetteville and into the 2008 Draft. The 6’0,” 205 lb. Jones has been very productive over his 3-year collegiate career despite surrendering the majority of his team’s rushing attempts to McFadden. In both 2006 and 2007, Jones recorded over 1,160 yards rushing while averaging a very impressive 7.6 yards/carry and 8.7 yards/carry in each respective season. Furthermore, Jones nearly doubled his rushing TD total in 2007 (11) from that in 2006 (6), while also increasing his total receiving yardage, and maintaining his characteristic success on special teams in the return game. Jones’ most impressive performances this past season include a 12 carry, 133 yard output against Kentucky, 166 yards on 13 carries to go along with 3 TD’s against South Carolina, and a 9 carry, 85 yard performance at LSU. While securing the football is an area which Jones could improve on, the Razorback rusher’s versatility and open-field speed give him a good chance to be chosen as high as the tag end of Round 1.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3195375

Standout Penn State CB to Enter Draft

Penn State Junior CB Justin King has, as expected, declared for the NFL Draft. King established himself as a shutdown cover corner during the 2006 season, and expectations were justifiably high for the heralded Pittsburgh native at the outset of this past season. Though King gave up more than a few TD’s in 2007, his overall performance was good enough to earn first-team all-Big Ten honors, and he leaves the Nittany Lion football program with 3 interceptions, 23 pass breakups, and 24 passes defensed in his career. King possesses solid size for a CB at 6’0,” but what really stands out is his speed and athletic ability. King stands a very good chance to record a sub-4.4 40-yard dash time, and his leaping ability should catch the attention of NFL GM’s and coaches in pre-Draft workouts as well. Good workouts would likely land King a Round 2 Draft grade, while below-average performances will probably result in a Round 3 selection.

http://bwi.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=761216

Mountaineer RB Slaton to Enter NFL Draft

West Virginia University Junior RB Steve Slaton will follow his teammate, Junior Darius Reynaud, out of Morgantown and into the 2008 Draft. While the start of the 2007 season brought with it the expectation that Slaton would definitely declare for this year’s Draft, a lackluster Junior year combined with an incredibly deep 2008 RB class led to some doubt in recent days/weeks as to whether or not Slaton would leave school early. Nevertheless, Slaton has decided that now is indeed the time to embark upon his professional career, and the decision to do so comes with great intrigue, to say the least. There is no doubt that Slaton possesses terrific open-field speed to go along with sleek receiving skills out of the backfield; however, many NFL Scouts and GM’s express concern over the fact that Slaton is not very adept at shedding tacklers or breaking through stacked coverage in the defensive Front-7. In the eyes of many, the rather skinny Slaton is the product of an innovative collegiate blocking scheme which cleared huge holes at the line of scrimmage for the Mountaineer RB to attack, leading to many 30-50 yard runs in the process. In pre-Draft workouts (and in the NFL), Slaton will have to prove that he can be an effective runner while operating in a traditional pro-style blocking scheme which puts much of the responsibility for success in the rushing department on the individual tailback, and his ability to make plays in the face of contact. Slaton’s projected 4.4 speed should still land him a Round 2 selection this year.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3194897

Top Overall Draft Prospect McFadden Heads to NFL

University of Arkansas Junior RB Darren McFadden has decided to leave school early, and enter the NFL Draft. This decision has obviously been anticipated for quite some time now, ever since the conclusion of McFadden’s ground-breaking Sophomore season, which saw the home-grown phenom rush for well over 1,600 yards (at 5.8 yards/carry) and 14 TD’s. Included within these statistics were several 50-80 yard runs, wherein McFadden showcased unbelievable raw speed and open-field explosiveness that quickly caught the eyes of NFL Scouts and GM’s alike. Amidst heightened expectations, McFadden followed his 2006 campaign with a 2007 season to remember, recording a school-record 1,830 yards rushing (at 5.6 yards/carry) to go along with 16 TD’s. McFadden’s characteristic 50-80 yard runs were abundantly present once again this past season, and he leaves the Razorback football program with, amongst other things, the all-time school record for career rushing yards, as well as two straight Doak Walker Awards (given annually to the nation’s top RB), and consecutive 2nd place finishes in voting for the Heisman Trophy. At 6’2,” McFadden possesses an elite-level frame for a tailback, and his versatility at the RB position is almost unparalleled in recent collegiate memory. Indeed, aside from taking handoffs, McFadden has proven extraordinarily effective at catching passes out of the backfield, taking direct snaps from center, and returning kickoffs. What is even more amazing about McFadden’s productivity and all-around play is the fact that he has ceded a considerable number of carries over the last 3 seasons to his talented teammate, Junior RB Felix Jones (who may still declare for the 2008 Draft himself). As a heady and team-oriented football player, McFadden is sure to garner rave reviews during the pre-Draft process, while standing a very real chance to record a 40-yard dash time in the 4.35 range, if not better. While both trade possibilities and ongoing front-office personnel and coaching changes make the top of the 2008 Draft a difficult one to forecast, make no mistake about it folks: Darren McFadden is without a doubt the #1 overall prospect available in this year’s Draft, regardless of position.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3192816

Dominant OSU Defensive End to Turn Pro

Ohio State Junior DE Vernon Gholston has become the first Buckeye underclassman to leave for the 2008 Draft. At 6’4,” 265 lbs., Gholston is an incredible physical specimen, and rumblings amongst some NFL Scouts (backed up by the size & tone of Gholston’s arms) suggest that the Buckeye pass-rusher may very well be the single strongest player in this year’s Draft. Gholston burst onto the scene during his Sophomore season, racking up an impressive 15 tackles behind the line of scrimmage (totaling 86 yards in losses) in addition to 7.5 sacks. Ohio State coaches predicted that Gholston’s 2007 campaign would be one of the best in school history, and they were right. Gholston was absolutely dominant off the edge this past year, surpassing current New England Patriots LB Mike Vrabel for first all-time in school history with 14 sacks in a single season! Even more, 3 of those sacks came against school rival Michigan, as Gholston shockingly made top Draft prospect Jake Long (LT) look very beatable in pass protection. A sure bet to impress in workouts, Gholston may soon be able to claim that he is no worse than the second-best DE in this year’s Draft, even ahead of standout Juniors Calais Campbell (Miami (Fla.)) and Derrick Harvey (Florida), as well as Seniors Lawrence Jackson (USC) and Quentin Groves (Auburn). Gholston is a lock to be selected in Round 1 of the Draft, possibly as high as pick #15, where his hometown Detroit Lions lay waiting.


**NOTE: As the link below indicates, two prominent Ohio State Juniors – CB Malcolm Jenkins and WR Brian Robiskie – have indicated that they plan to return to school for their Senior seasons. In the face of potentially more underclassmen departures from the program (stay tuned), retaining Jenkins (who would have been a 1st Round pick this year) and Robiskie is a huge boon for the 2008 Buckeyes.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3192411

Star Pac-10 Rusher to Enter Draft

University of Oregon Junior RB Jonathan Stewart has, as expected, entered the NFL Draft. From a physical standpoint, Stewart ranks amongst the most impressive prospects in this year’s Draft at 5’10,” 230 lbs. When combined with his elite open-field speed, Stewart’s muscular frame has made him immensely difficult to tackle the last two years. During a 2006 Sophomore campaign which saw him finish with a 5.4 yards/carry average and just under 1,000 yards rushing, Stewart showed ability which convinced myself and others that he was very close to becoming a truly great back. Expectations were realized in 2007 when Stewart exploded for 1,722 yards rushing (6.2 yards/carry) and 11 TD’s, to go along with 145 yards receiving on 22 catches and 2 TD’s! To be sure, Stewart’s game-day efforts in 2007 stood out more than a few times. Twice this past season, against Washington and South Florida, Stewart amazed with 250+ yard rushing performances, while also recording 163 yards on the ground against school rival Oregon State, and 103 yards (and 2 TD’s) against the vaunted USC defense. Despite a loaded RB class in this year’s Draft, Stewart is making a sound decision by leaving school early. He will surely impress in a variety of pre-Draft workouts, including repetitions in the 225 lb. bench press, along with shuttle and 40-yard dash times. In the latter run, Stewart stands a very good chance to record a 4.40 time or better, and when Draft day arrives, expect the Ducks’ superstar to be off the board by pick #25 at the latest.

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=335888

First USC Junior to Enter 2008 Draft

Southern California Junior OG Chilo Rachal will enter the NFL Draft. The 6’5,” 315 lb. Rachal proved to be a versatile recruit for Trojans head coach Pete Carroll, moving from Tackle early in his career to Right Guard, where he started in 2006 and 2007 (earning all-conference honors by league coaches this past season). Rachal’s size as a Guard projects very well to the professional level, and Trojan lineman selected in the Draft during the last few years have done quite well for themselves in the NFL. Good workouts could land Rachal as high as a late-Round 2/early Round 3 grade. Rachal is the first of what could be more Trojan underclassmen to declare for this year’s Draft.

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-uscfb11jan11,1,211478.story?coll=la-headlines-sports&ctrack=1&cset=true

Two More Defenders Leave School Early

Louisville Junior LB Lamar Myles will enter the 2008 Draft. Along with his teammate, Senior LB Malik Jackson, Myles stood out on an otherwise disappointing Cardinals defense, leading the team with 128 tackles (including an impressive 22 tackles against Kentucky), while also forcing and recovering 3 fumbles. The 6’1,” 220 lb. Myles is a hard-hitter who brought a refreshing level of consistency to the field in 2007. In what projects to be a solid draft at the LB position, Myles faces the prospect of having to wait until the 3rd Round or later to be selected.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=ncf&id=3192018


NC State Junior S DaJuan Morgan will also enter the NFL Draft. The 6’1,” 200 lb. Morgan was quite productive for the Wolfpack this past season, leading the team with 97 tackles while adding 3 interceptions and 6 pass breakups. Morgan is versatile, having played both Safety positions in college, although he will probably be a Free Safety in the NFL. Outstanding workouts could propel Morgan to the 3rd Round of the Draft, but in all likelihood, he will hear his name called somewhere in the middle rounds.

http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news?slug=uwire-wolfpacksafetymorganwillen&prov=uwire&type=lgns

Oklahoma Blue-Chipper Kelly to Turn Pro

University of Oklahoma Junior WR Malcolm Kelly has, as expected, declared for the 2008 Draft. The 6’4,” 220 lb. Kelly is truly one of the elite prospects in this year’s Draft. In addition to possessing reliable hands, Kelly is very adept at shedding tacklers and is an absolute weapon in the Red Zone. During a 2007 season that saw him constantly face double-coverage while fighting nagging injuries, Kelly still managed to average almost 17 yards/catch, while recording 9 TD’s in the process (his 21 career TD catches rank him 2nd on the Sooners’ all-time list, behind current Baltimore Ravens WR Mark Clayton). It is worth noting that towards the end of this past season, Kelly suffered a deep thigh bruise which, in addition to forcing him out of the Fiesta Bowl against West Virginia, may delay Kelly’s ability to participate in substantive pre-Draft workouts until the latter part of March. Nevertheless, NFL GM’s will tell you that players with Kelly’s talent don’t come around often, and thus, the Sooner wideout solidly projects as a 1st Round pick.

http://www.soonersports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011008aab.html

Pair of Productive Wideouts Head to NFL

Vanderbilt University Junior WR Earl Bennett will forgo his Senior season to enter the Draft. The once lightly-recruited Bennett has made himself quite a football player in the ultra-competitive SEC, and he leaves school with the all-time SEC record for receptions (236). At the conclusion of the 2007 season, Bennett became the only wideout in conference history to record at least 75 receptions in each year of play, and his career totals in yards receiving (2,852) and TD catches (20) stand out as well. Bennett has the size, at 6’1,” 200 lbs., to be effective as a #2 possession receiver in the NFL. Bennett’s 40-yard dash time will be important toward determining his Draft grade, but the prediction here is that Bennett will be selected by the end of Round 3.

http://vucommodores.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011008aaa.html


West Virginia University Junior WR Darius Reynaud will not return to school for his 5th year, instead opting to enter the 2008 Draft. Reynaud is obviously on the small side at only 5’10,” but he does have very good speed, and may become an effective slot receiver in the NFL. While running routes in Rich Rodriguez’s spread-option offense, Reynaud found himself wide open in gaping holes between loose Safety coverage many times, leading to a good number of long TD catches. Reynaud is a solid bet to impress with his 40-yard dash time, but he must prove to GM’s and NFL coaches alike that he can run routes as a #3 receiver at the professional level. Reynaud must also learn to catch the ball with his hands more, rather than cradling balls thrown to him with his arms/chest. As of now, Reynaud looks like a mid-round Draft prospect.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3191008

Clemson DE to Leave School Early

Clemson University Junior DE Phillip Merling has declared for the NFL Draft. Physically-gifted, the 6’5,” 280 lb. Merling really came into his own this past season, leading the Tigers with 17 tackles for a loss and 7 sacks. During his first two seasons of play, Merling was understandably in the shadow of star Clemson DE Gaines Adams, but the fact that the Tigers were able to maintain a consistent (if not explosive) pass rush at the line of scrimmage in 2007 is largely attributable to Merling’s efforts. Had he come back for his Senior season, Merling would have stood a solid chance to work his way into the 1st Round of the 2009 Draft. Nevertheless, as young and healthy as Merling is, good workouts could put him anywhere from late-Round 2 to late-Round 3 this year.

http://clemsontigers.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011008aad.html

Second Hawaii WR to Leave School Early

University of Hawaii Junior WR Ryan Grice-Mullins has followed his co-wideout Davone Bess out the door early from Hawaii and into the 2008 Draft. Just like Bess, Grice-Mullins was outrageously productive in June Jones’ “Run & Shoot” offense, recording 106 receptions for a team-high 1,372 yards and 13 TD’s in 2007 alone. Just like Bess, Grice-Mullins is on the small side, barely checking in at 5’11.” Just like Bess and Senior QB Colt Brennan, Grice-Mullins will have to prove that his fate in the NFL will be different than that of past players from the Warrior football program. And just like Bess, Grice-Mullins is a “wild-card” prospect who will likely find himself selected in the middle rounds on Draft day.

http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2008/Jan/09/br/br9150638742.html

Wolverine Wide Receivers to go Pro

University of Michigan Junior Wide Receivers Mario Manningham and Adrian Arrington both intend to declare for the 2008 NFL Draft. These two decisions have been in the works for a few weeks now, ever since new head coach Rich Rodriguez was hired in mid-December. To be sure, these declarations are sound ones, as Manningham and Arrington have accomplished all that they can in Ann Arbor, and a return to school by either of the two for their Senior year would likely be a frustrating experience, given the immediate installation of Rodriguez’s spread-option offense, as well as a new QB commanding the huddle.

The 6’0,” 180 lb. Manningham is the more naturally talented of the two receivers, possessing very, very good deep speed and efficient route-running ability. What impresses me most about Manningham is the competitive manner in which he goes after the football when close to making a catch. Manningham recorded numerous multi-TD games for the Wolverines, and finishes his career with 27 total TD catches. Manningham will likely time the 40-yard dash in the 4.37-4.45 range, setting himself up to be chosen anywhere from the latter part of Round 1 through the middle of Round 2.

The 6’3,” 195 lb. Arrington is the more physically-gifted of the two wideouts, though the former Iowa prep track star also showcases good speed and soft, reliable hands. After an injury-plagued 2005 season, Arrington burst onto the scene in 2006 opposite Manningham, giving QB Chad Henne an effective possession receiver and red-zone threat to throw to. Never lacking for confidence on the field, Arrington’s performance improved even more in 2007, as he virtually cut out dropped passes from his repertoire while becoming a very good (and unheralded) down-field blocker in the process. Arrington caught 8 TD’s this past season, including 2 in a 9 reception, 153 yard performance against Florida in the Capital One Bowl. The pool of WR’s in the 2008 Draft is yet to be determined given some prominent Juniors who will likely declare, but Arrington is one prospect to keep an eye on during the pre-Draft process. Good workouts and interviews could land Arrington as high as a late Round 2 Draft grade.

http://freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080114/SPORTS06/80114100/1054

Declarations, cont. (III)

University of Tennessee Junior LB Jerod Mayo has, as expected, entered the NFL Draft. The hard-nosed Mayo led the SEC in tackles this past season, recording an incredible 62 stops in his last four games alone! In addition to possessing very good size at 6’2,” 230 lbs., Mayo is versatile, having played both OLB and ILB for the Vols, the latter this past season. When Mayo is healthy, he brings a non-stop motor to the field, and his teammates feed off of his intensity very well. Indeed, as the focal point of a defense, Mayo can virtually dominate a game, flustering opposing offensive coordinators and head coaches in the process. With Mayo, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” and though he almost surely will be selected by the end of Round 2, good pre-Draft workouts and interviews could propel Mayo into the tag end of Round 1. My kind of football player!

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3186978


Rutgers Junior RB Ray Rice will enter the 2008 Draft. Rice has been arguably the most productive RB in the nation over the last two seasons, and he leaves the Scarlet Knight football program having just concluded an incredible 2007 campaign in which he joined a very select club of collegiate RB’s to record over 2,000 rushing yards in a single season. The 5’9” Rice possesses great breakaway speed, and combines good field vision with a low running posture that makes him difficult to bring down between the tackles. Rice has recorded many 30-40 yard runs over the last two seasons, and though some will assert that his production came against below-average Big East defenses, Rice’s consistency game-to-game coupled with his knack for finding the end zone are hard to overlook. Rice should perform well in pre-Draft workouts, and is a virtual lock to be selected by the end of Round 2.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft07/news/story?id=3186871


Florida State Junior LB Geno Hayes has declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. A highly-regarded recruit from the Class of 2005, Hayes really came into his element this past season, finishing first on his team in tackles for a loss with 17.5 (94 tackles total). The 6’2,” 220 lb. Hayes brings a sleek, efficient approach to the LB position, taking narrow angles towards ball carriers while rarely over-pursuing. Hayes’ speed and athleticism make him an ideal candidate for the weak-side LB position in the NFL, where Hayes’ play-making abilities would surely stand out. Bound to impress GM’s and coaches in his pre-Draft workouts, Hayes has a good shot at being selected sometime in Round 2.

http://floridastate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=759508


Auburn University Junior DT Pat Sims will also enter the NFL Draft. Though overshadowed by his co-lineman, Senior DE Quentin Groves, the 6’4,” 315 lb. Sims had a breakout year in 2007, earning first-team all-SEC honors while finishing second on the Tigers with 11.5 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks. Sims was crucial to an Auburn defense that finished sixth nationally in both scoring defense and total defense in 2007. Sims is a load inside, and for a player whose primary task revolves around drawing double-teams in the trenches, Sims was quite effective at getting penetration into the backfield. In a very deep NFL Draft at Defensive Line, Sims’ draft grade is a bit difficult to predict. With average workouts, Sims may be a mid-round selection, although a 3rd Round grade is not out of the question.

http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010808aab.html

Declarations, cont. (II)

University of Texas Redshirt Sophomore TE Jermichael Finley has become the first non-Junior to declare for this year’s Draft, and the first player ever from the Longhorn football program to leave for the NFL with two years of eligibility left. Although he possess good height at 6’5,” Finley’s decision comes as a bit of a surprise given the potential for him to both further develop his yet-lean 235 lb. frame, and polish his pass receiving and blocking skills in college. Finley showed very good progress during his two playing years in Austin, finishing his career with 947 yards receiving on 76 catches, along with 5 TD’s. In an increasingly crowded TE Draft pool, Finley’s current confidence level will have to carry over into, and through his pre-Draft workouts and interviews in order to secure a draft spot anywhere from late-Round 2 through the end of Round 4.

http://www.star-telegram.com/college_sports/story/395407.html


University of Kansas Junior CB Aqib Talib has, as expected, declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. Talib came into the 2007 campaign with high expectations given his breakout Sophomore season, one in which he recorded a whopping 22 pass breakups along with 6 interceptions. Though he was beaten for several TD passes in 2007, Talib was good enough this past season to earn first-team All-American status, having recorded 13 pass breakups and 5 interceptions, two of which were returned for TD’s. The brash Talib possesses great size for a CB at 6’2,” and has demonstrated very good instincts at his position, most notably in jumping quick-pass sideline routes. He is also athletic enough to contribute on kick and punt returns. While it will be interesting to see his 40-yard dash time, the prediction here is that Talib will be selected in Round 1 of the 2008 Draft.

Also leaving Kansas with Talib will be Junior OT Anthony Collins. The 6’6,” 310 lb. Collins was likewise named a first-team All-American in 2007, and currently projects as a Round 3 selection who could easily move up on NFL teams’ Draft boards.

http://kansas.rivals.com/content.asp?cid=759045


University of Wisconsin Junior CB Jack Ikegwuonu has declared for the 2008 Draft. Ikegwuonu had an up-and-down 2007 season, wherein he performed substantially better against top-notch Big Ten offenses than against sub-par ones. The once lightly-recruited Madison, WI native finished the season strong (recording a particularly impressive performance against the Michigan Wolverines), and leaves the Badger football program with 6 interceptions and 35 passes defensed in his career. Ikegwuonu has very good size for a CB at 6’1,” and his physical style of play has many NFL scouts and GM’s thinking that he could alternatively be an effective Safety at the professional level. Ikegwuonu is sure to impress with his work ethic, but in order for him to solidify a late-Round 2/early Round 3 grade, a 4.45 40-yard dash time (or better) is vital.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft07/news/story?id=3185718

Declarations, cont.

University of Central Florida Junior RB Kevin Smith has made an abrupt about-face on his future, and now intends to declare for the 2008 Draft. While this decision will definitely catch many by surprise given Smith’s previous declared intention to remain in school for his Senior season, the extraordinarily productive Smith did not have much reason to return to school aside from the opportunity to set yet more school and (possibly) NCAA records. In other words, Smith has accomplished all that he can on his path toward the NFL, and a return to school would only open him up to the risk of an injury that could both depress his Draft stock and adversely affect his ability to succeed in the NFL. It is true that Smith faces very, very steep competition at the RB position in this year’s Draft, and as of now, stands virtually no chance to be a 1st Round pick. Smith does not appear to possess great open-field speed, and his gaudy statistics were for the most part recorded against below-average Conference USA competition. Smith does have good field vision and cutting ability, but his Draft grade will largely be determined by his 40-yard dash time. If Smith runs a 4.5 time or better, he stands a solid chance to be selected by the end of Round 2.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3184342


Virginia Tech Junior CB Brandon Flowers has, as expected, declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. Flowers has had a tremendous career, earning back-to-back All-American status these past two seasons while breaking up 27 passes and recording 8 interceptions (including 5 in 2007) in the process. Motivation is a real factor for Flowers, as his on-field play is noticeably more explosive when he plays with passion. In addition to possessing good instincts at his position, Flowers has the necessary physical tools to succeed in the NFL, though his listed 5’10” height will generate some concern amongst NFL scouts and GM’s. Good pre-Draft workouts and interviews will solidify Flowers’ status as a 2nd Round pick. Of benefit to Flowers is the past and present NFL success of DB’s from the Hokie football program.

http://hamptonroads.com/2008/01/tech%2526%2523039%3Bs-brandon-flowers-skip-senior-year-nfl-draft

More Underclassmen Declaring

Texas A&M Junior TE Martellus Bennett has confirmed his intention to declare for the 2008 Draft. Having been blessed with an NFL-caliber body since his early high school days, the 6’7,” 255 lb. Bennett came to College Station as a heralded Lone Star state recruit in both football and basketball (and during the ’06 and ’07 basketball seasons, he contributed to the Aggies’ basketball team). In now-deposed head coach Dennis Franchione’s spread-option offense, Bennett has not been the recipient of as many throws as a TE of his ability would like. Nevertheless, Bennett recorded impressive performances against the Big 12’s best teams – 91 yards on 8 catches against Kansas, 63 yards with 1 TD at Oklahoma, and a 2 TD performance at Missouri. Indeed, with soft hands, sleek receiving skills, and very good blocking ability to boot, Bennett rates as both the best Junior TE (ahead of Missouri’s Chase Coffman), and the best overall TE in this year’s Draft (ahead of Seniors Fred Davis (USC), Martin Rucker (Missouri), John Carlson (Notre Dame), and Kellen Davis (Michigan State)). Bennett is no doubt a Round 1 talent, but as last April’s event indicates, being the Draft’s best TE can still mean a sweaty-palmed experience on Draft day (see Greg Olsen).

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/college/5430733.html


Illinois Junior RB Rashard Mendenhall will enter the NFL Draft. A much-ballyhooed recruit from the Class of ’05, Mendenhall struggled to gain consistent playing time during his first two years in the Illini football program. Nevertheless, there was little doubt in his coaches’ minds that if he remained injury-free and was given the requisite number of carries, Mendenhall’s explosiveness would translate into substantial results for his team, providing the Illini with the feared rushing threat that they have lacked for years. The 2007 season proved to be Mendenhall’s breakout year, with the burly 225 lb. tailback steamrolling over numerous Big Ten defenses, earning the Big Ten’s Player of the Year award in the process. Mendenhall averaged almost 6.5 yards/carry, recorded two games of over 200 yards rushing, and four more games of 150 yards rushing or more (including a 17 carry, 155 yard performance against USC in the Rose Bowl). Mendenhall possesses incredible open-field explosiveness and an almost uncanny ability to turn a small hole at the line of scrimmage into a 40-50 yard gain. As physically-gifted as Mendenhall is, he is very adept at shedding tacklers. To be sure, Mendenhall possesses first-round talent; however, with other notable RB’s yet to declare for the Draft, it remains to be seen whether he will be taken amongst the first 31 selections in an already-deep pool of offensive talent.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3182506


Indiana University Junior WR James Hardy has declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. Hardy will leave the Hoosier football program as arguably the greatest wideout in school history, owning several single-season and career receiving records. At a whopping 6’7,” Hardy is a potent red zone threat who finished this past season with 16 TD receptions while averaging an impressive 14.2 yards/catch. Hardy has proved his worth while being covered by the very best Cornerbacks in the Big Ten, and his background as a Hoosier basketball recruit has enabled him to maintain a reputation for being very sure-handed. Never lacking for confidence, Hardy seems poised to impress during pre-Draft workouts and interviews, thus standing a chance to be selected as high as the late Round 1/early Round 2 range.

http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080104/SPORTS0301/462761232/1002/LOCAL


University of Hawaii Junior WR Davone Bess will follow Senior QB Colt Brennan out the door from Honolulu and into the NFL. To be sure, Bess has racked up video game numbers in June Jones’ "Run & Shoot" offense (including an eye-popping 108 catches), but historically, players from the offensive side of the ball in the Warrior football program (including WR’s Ashley Lelie and Chad Owens, and QB’s Nick Rolovich and Timmy Chang) have struggled mightily making the transition to some form of a pro-style offense in the NFL. At only 5’10,” the diminutive Bess – and Brennan, for that matter – will have to prove that they are different football players than their predecessors. Very good workouts by Bess may land him a “wild-card” Draft spot anywhere from Rounds 3-5. What may help Bess in the eyes of NFL GM’s and coaches is his solid punt-returning ability.

http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2008/Jan/04/br/br7431920865.html


Michigan State University Junior WR Devin Thomas has, as expected, declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. The speedy Thomas burst onto the scene in 2007 as multi-threat talent for new head coach Mark Dantonio, racking up very impressive numbers both as a wideout (1,260 yards receiving, 8 TD’s) as well as a Kick Returner (1,135 yards, 29.1-yard average). Thomas repeatedly proved very valuable in enabling his Spartan teammates to remain competitive late in games in which they had been trailing by significant margins, and his season ended with ownership of the Spartans’ single-season record for all-purpose yards (2,590). Assuming Thomas checks in at his listed 6’2” height, and runs the 40-yard dash at his projected 4.40 time, the former JUCO standout is a virtual lock to be selected by the end of Round 2.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3182065

First Wave of Underclassmen Declarations

University of Miami (Fla.) Junior DE Calais Campbell has declared himself eligible for this year's Draft. The mammoth 6'8," 280 lb. Campbell was tremendously productive during his Sophomore season, and came into the 2007 campaign with very, very high expectations which he did not fully meet. Campbell showcased lackadaisical effort during much of this past season, finishing with only 6 sacks. Given Campbell's size and enormous potential, however, workouts do not figure to affect his Draft stock too much - he is a virtual lock for the Top-20 picks of Round 1, and if he does indeed have good workouts, could easily elevate himself into the Top-10 of the 2008 Draft.

http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/colleges/um/story/366391.html


University of Florida Junior DE Derrick Harvey has declared himself eligible for this year's Draft. Harvey exploded about midway through the Gators' 2006 National Championship season, concluding it with a terrific all-around performance in the BCS Title Game against OSU. This year, Harvey held his own in the face of dramatically increased expectations, and despite his legitimacy at DE, he possesses the necessary quickness and agility to fit into a 3-4 defensive scheme as a speed-rushing OLB should an NFL coaching staff desire to use him in such a manner. Harvey is solidly a 1st Round pick.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3179754


University of Texas Junior RB Jamaal Charles has also declared himself eligible for this year's Draft. Charles ranks very high amongst the Longhorns' all-time rushing leaders, and complements his explosive open-field rushing ability with terrific receiving skills out of the backfield. Charles has proven himself to be a feared "home-run threat" who bailed his Longhorn teammates out of very difficult predicaments/4th quarter deficits many times this past season. Good workouts leading up to the Draft would solidify Charles' status as a 1st Round pick; below-average workouts would likely land him a spot in the upper-half of Round 2.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/news/story?id=3177593


Boise State University Junior OT Ryan Clady has declared himself eligible for the Draft, becoming the first player in the Idaho school's history to leave early for the NFL. The 6'6" Clady has been consistently strong in the trenches for the Broncos, and as a projected Top-15 selection this year, figures to likewise be the school's first ever 1st Round NFL Draft pick! This projected achievement is yet one more indication of the terrific progress that the Bronco football program has made over the last 5 years.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/boisestatefootball/story/252666.html


Maryland Junior LB Erin Henderson has declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft. This declaration has been in the works for weeks, with many inside the Terrapin football program speculating that Henderson was eager to join his brother E.J., also a Maryland football product and current LB for the Minnesota Vikings, in the NFL. Henderson has been very productive on defense for the Terps, racking up over 130 tackles (including 11 for a loss) this past season while fighting injuries. Workouts and interviews will be very significant for Henderson, as they could elevate his draft status to that of a 2nd Round pick. In any case, Henderson should be selected by the end of Round 3.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/02/AR2008010202861.html


University of Miami (Fla.) Junior S Kenny Phillips has declared himself eligible for the 2008 Draft. To be sure, Phillips, a physically-gifted 6'2" 215 lb. defender who continues the long line of wildly-talented Hurricane DB's to leave school early for the NFL, has had one foot out the door since arriving on campus as a freshman in 2005. With his incredible closing speed and bone-jarring open-field hits, Phillips is more than capable of playing either Safety position in the NFL. Irrespective of his Draft workouts, Phillips will be the first Safety selected in the 2008 Draft, and is a virtual lock to be taken by pick #15 in Round 1.

http://www.miamiherald.com/606/story/335583.html


Louisville Junior WR Mario Urrutia has signed with an agent and entered his name into the 2008 Draft. Urrutia is big - very big at 6'6" - and has been quite productive for the Cardinals despite being hindered by constant injuries and new Cardinals coach Steve Kragthorpe's dismal offense. Urrutia has not been without fault; he is guilty of more than a few dropped passes and lapses in concentration. Nevertheless, with the graduation of QB Brian Brohm, the impending hire of a new offensive coordinator, the lingering possibility of yet more injuries, and the desire to provide for his infant son, Urrutia had good reason to leave school early. Workouts will carry enormous weight towards determining Urrutia's draft position; good performances could land Urrutia a mid-round Draft grade, with the outside possibility of a 3rd Round spot. Personally, I feel that this WR has a future in the NFL - remember folks, he is 6'6."

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071215/SPORTS02/712150499/1028/rss0702

General Information - 2008 NFL Draft

The deadline for collegiate underclassmen to declare for the 2008 NFL Draft is January 15, 2008.

Though NFL Playoff results have yet to be determined, and pertinent coin flips have yet to take place, much of the 2008 NFL Draft order is already set. A currently up-to-date selection order for Round 1 can be found at:

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d805a3a57&template=without-video&confirm=true

It is also worth noting that some procedural changes have been instituted for the 2008 NFL Draft and beyond:

1) The first day of the Draft will only consist of Rounds 1-2, with Round 3 now moving to day #2 of the Draft.

2) The starting time for the first day of the Draft has been pushed to 3:00 PM ET from its traditional start time of Noon ET.

3) The time between picks in Round 1 will be cut from 15 minutes to 10 minutes in order to speed up the Draft. Likewise, the time between picks in Round 2 will decrease from 10 minutes to 7 minutes.

Recap: 2007 NFL Draft

Full coverage of the 2007 NFL Draft can be retrieved at:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft07/index