NFC South Early Rookie Reviews....

ATLANTA – Sean Weatherspoon (1) starting strong side linebacker. Second leading tackler with 29 stops and one sack in four of five games played. Was inactive for the 49ers’ game. Corey Peters (3a) in defensive front rotation. Has ten tackles. Mike Johnson (3b) backup right guard. Joe Hawley (4) reserve center. Dominique Franks (5a) three deep at right corner. Kerry Meier (5b) wide receiver on injured reserve. Shann Schillinger (6) backs up Thomas Decoud at free safety. CFA/53: Michael Palmer TE, Clemson, third tight end.

CAROLINA – Jimmy Clausen (2) earned the starting quarterback position by default due to the poor play by Matt Moore. In three starts Clausen has thrown for 454 yards, one touchdown, three interceptions, fumbled nine times and lost two, sacked nine times. In week seven, Moore returned as the starter. Brandon LaFell (3a) starting wide receiver after Steve Smith went down with a high ankle sprain. Five catches for 83 yards in four active games. Armanti Edwards (3b) backup wide receiver. Active in one game. Developmental receiver and return specialist after playing QB in college. Eric Norwood (4) reserve strong side linebacker. Three tackles in three games active. Greg Hardy (6a) backup at left end. Eleven tackles and one sack in five games. Also credited with a tackle for a safety. David Gettis (6b) starting wide receiver, has 18 catches for 244 yards and two touchdowns in four starts in five games played. That includes eight catches for 125 yards in the San Francisco game on 10/24/10. Jordan Pugh (6c) backs up at free safety. Inactive for the first three games but made the most of his playing time against New Orleans and Chicago with seven tackles, an interception, and three pass deflections. Tony Pike (6d) third quarterback. RJ Stanford (7a) practice squad. Robert McClain (7b) backup left corner. Two tackles in one game active. CFA/53: Andre Neblett DT, Temple, inactive in all five games.

NEW ORLEANS – Patrick Robinson (1) backup left corner behind Jabari Greer. Has started two games. Had 18 tackles in five games played along with two passes deflected. Charles Brown (2) reserve left tackle. Jimmy Graham (3) third tight end. Al Woods (4) claimed off waivers by Pittsburgh. Matt Tennant (5) backup center. Sean Canfield (7) practice squad. CFA/53: Chris Ivory RB, rushed for 158 yards in 15 carries versus Tampa Bay in week six. Caught one pass for 17 yards. Played his senior year at Tiffin University in Ohio, a Division II school where he carried the ball 39 times for 223 yards in five games. Washington State transfer. Rushed for 534 yards on 91 attempts in three years at WSU. Plagued by injuries for the Cougars. Has had three fumbles in four games played, losing two for the Saints. Junior Galette DE, Stillman.


TAMPA BAY – Gerald McCoy (1) starting left defensive tackle. He has ten tackles and one forced fumble in six games. Brian Price (2a) plays in the defensive front rotation. Arrelious Benn (2b) backup wide receiver. Myron Lewis (3) reserve right corner. Mike Williams (4) starter at wide receiver from day one. Impressive skill set. Has 28 catches for 365 yards and three touchdowns in six games. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - Two-year starter. Quit the team after seven games in 2009. An enigma with talent. A hand catcher with decent arm length. Plays big. Aggressive to the ball in the air. Big target on crossing routes. Good receiving skills. Soft and dependable hands. Snatches the quick passes out of the air and gets up the field. Good run after catch ability. Did not play with any consistent passers in his career. Can make the off target catch. Brent Bowden (6) on the practice squad. Cody Grimm (7a) starter at free safety. Dekoda Watson (7b) backup at strong outside linebacker. Erik Lorig (7c) reserve tight end. CFA/53: Preston Parker WR, North Alabama. LeGarrette Blount RB, Oregon claimed off Tennessee waivers.

AFC South Early Rookie Reviews.....

HOUSTON – Kareem Jackson (1) starting right corner. Made 32 tackles and has one interception through the first six games. Ben Tate (2) on injured reserve due to ankle surgery. Earl Mitchell (3) backup right defensive tackle behind Amobi Okoye. Darryl Sharpton (4a) reserve weak side linebacker. Garrett Graham (4b) fourth tight end. Sherrick McManis (5) backup left corner. Shelley Smith (6a) practice squad. Trindon Holliday (6b) on injured reserve due to ligament damage in his thumb. Dorin Dickerson (7) backup wide receiver. CFA/53: Jonathan Weeks LS, Baylor.

INDIANAPOLIS – Jerry Hughes (1) four deep at left defensive end. Has not been active. Pat Angerer (2) tied for team lead with 11 tackles in first career start versus Redskins on 10/17/10. Also had one sack, one quarterback pressure, and two passes broken up. Has had six special teams tackles. Kevin Thomas (3) on injured reserve due to knee surgery. Jacques McClendon (4) reserve right guard. Brody Eldridge (5) starting H-back. Has three catches for 23 yards in six games. Ricardo Mathews (7a) third left end. Kavell Conner (7b) backs up Clint Sessions at “Will” linebacker. Ray Fisher (7c) released. CFA/53: Jeff Linkenbach OT, Cincinnati. Brandon King DC, Purdue.


JACKSONVILLE – Tyson Alualu (1) starting left defensive tackle. Has 17 tackles including 1 ½ sacks in the first six games. D’Anthony Smith (3) on injured reserve due to an Achilles tendon injury that required surgery. Larry Hart (5a) back up right defensive end. Austen Lane (5b) reserve left defensive end. Deji Karim (6a) reserve running back. Active in games five and six. Rushed for 73 yards in 18 carries. Impressive as a kickoff returner averaging 28.5 yards in 11 returns. Scotty McGee (6b) injured reserve due to a shoulder injury. CFA/53: Kevin Haslam OT, Rutgers. Aaron Morgan DE, Louisiana-Monroe. Jacob Cutrera OB, LSU.

TENNESSEE – Derrick Morgan (1) on injured reserve due to a season ending ACL surgery. Missed most of the preseason with an ongoing calf injury. Damian Williams (3a) backup wide receiver. Rennie Curran (3b) backup outside linebacker. Alterraun Verner (4) starting left corner. Big game against Dallas with eight tackles and an interception. Credited with 33 tackles and two interceptions through seven games. Robert Johnson (5) reserve free safety. Rusty Smith (6a) third quarterback. Myron Rolle (6b) on the practice squad. Marc Mariani (7a) reserve wide receiver and kick return specialist. David Howard (7b) released. CFA/53: none.

NFC North Early Rookie Reviews.....

CHICAGO – Major Wright (3) backup free safety, hampered by hamstring injury. Corey Wootton (4) backs up Julius Peppers at right defensive end. Joshua Moore (5) reserve left corner. Dan LeFevour (6) claimed by Cincinnati after Chicago tried to slip him through waivers. J’Marcus Webb (7) backup right tackle. Harvey Unga (7) supplemental draft, on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury suffered during training camp. CFA/53: none.

DETROIT – Ndamukong Suh (1a) starting defensive tackle. As good as you’ve heard he is. His 4 ½ sacks through six games are more than the total of Tampa Bays’ defensive front. Additionally he has 21 tackles and one interception. Jahvid Best (1b) starting running back. Was the first rookie in NFL history to rush for 75 yards, have 150 yards in receiving, and score three touchdowns in one game. He has scored five touchdowns in his first two games. Leads all rookies with 31 catches for 285 yards and one touchdown. Amari Spievey (3) backup strong safety. Jason Fox (4) backup right tackle. Willie Young (7a) backup left defensive end behind Cliff Avril. Tim Toone (7b) practice squad/injured reserve. CFA/53: Aaron Berry DC, Pittsburgh on injured reserve. Randy Phillips SS, Miami.

GREEN BAY – Bryan Bulaga (1) utility offensive guard/tackle that currently backs up Chad Clifton. Has two starts in first six games. Mike Neal (2a) in defensive front rotation. Plays right end. Morgan Burnett (2b) starting strong safety until injured. Placed on injured reserve after the fourth game against Detroit. Made 14 tackles and had one interception in four games. Andrew Quarless (5a) will get more playing time after injury to Jermichael Finley. Marshall Newhouse (5b) backup left guard. James Starks (6) physically unable to play (PUP) through first six games. CJ Wilson (7) reserve left defensive end. CFA/53: Nick McDonald OG, Grand Valley State. Frank Zombo right OB, Central Michigan. Sam Shields DC, Miami. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - One-year starter at corner after playing receiver for three years. Natural ball skills and quick hands. Good leaping ability. Plays the ball in the air. Has elite corner speed and quickness. Has the courage to support the run. Demonstrates natural instincts and reactions. Off field red flags may cause him to go undrafted, but could sign as a free agent like Bruce Johnson (Giants) in 2009. Maurice Simpkins IB, Coastal Carolina.


MINNESOTA – Chris Cook (2a) backs up Antoine Winfield at left corner. Started one game versus Detroit and was credited with five tackles. Has had some nicks that slowed him down during the season. Toby Gerhart (2b) reserve running back. Has 10 carries for 33 yards in five games along with one catch for five yards. Everson Griffen (4) reserve left defensive end. Chris DeGeare (5a) backup left guard behind Steve Hutchinson. Nathan Triplett (5a) released and signed to Chargers’ practice squad. Joe Webb (6) third quarterback. Impressive athletic ability demonstrated during preseason. Mickey Shuler (7a) cut and signed off waivers by Miami. Ryan D’Imperio (7b) on the practice squad. Moved from college position of linebacker to fullback. CFA/53: none.

AFC North Early Rookie Reviews....

BALTIMORE – Sergio Kindle (2a) placed on the NFI list after a head injury suffered during a fall in his home prior to reporting to training camp. Terrence Cody (2b) third nose tackle. Was inactive for all the first three games with a sprained knee. No tackles in following two games. Ed Dickson (3) second tight end. Two catches for 75 yards through five games. Led the Ravens with eight catches for 91 yards in the preseason. Dennis Pitta (4) third tight end. Made seven catches for 86 yards in preseason. David Reed (5a) backup wide receiver who contributes on kick coverage teams. Averaged 14.7 yards in preseason with seven catches. Arthur Jones (5b) reserve defensive tackle. Has been inactive through five games. Ramon Harewood (6) offensive tackle on injured reserve. Suffered a knee injury in the first Raven minicamp. CFA/53: Morgan Cox LS, Tennessee

CINCINNATI – Jermaine Gresham (1) starting tight end with 22 catches for 158 yards and two touchdowns. Has impressed the Bengals with his blocking ability as well as hands. Carlos Dunlap (2) reserve right defensive end. Inactive all five games. Jordan Shipley (3a) third wide receiver played in the first four games, starting two of them. Inactive for game five due to a concussion. Has 21 catches for 321 yards with a long of 64 yards and one touchdown. Brandon Ghee (3b) reserve left corner. Active in game five versus Tampa Bay and made one tackle. Geno Atkins (4a) in defensive front rotation after a solid preseason demonstrating his explosive upfield penetration strength. Four tackles and ½ sack in four games active. Roddrick Muckelroy (4b) backs up Dhani Jones at middle linebacker. Active in three games. Made four special teams tackles and forced one fumble. Otis Hudson (5) practice squad. Dezmon Briscoe (6) released and claimed by Tampa Bay, signed to practice squad. Reggie Stephens (7) backup center. Inactive through the first five games. CFA/53: none. Dan LeFevour sixth round selection by Chicago. Passed for 19 of 41, 204 yards, one touchdown, one interception in preseason for the Bears. Claimed off waivers on 9/5/10. Third quarterback.

CLEVELAND – Joe Haden (1) battling Sheldon Brown at right corner. Started one game. Active in all five games making 16 tackles and breaking up three passes. TJ Ward (2a) starting strong safety. Was in on 43 tackles and has one pass deflection and a forced fumble. Ward has impressed the Browns with his football savvy and hard hitting ability. Montario Hardesty (2b) on injured reserve due to left knee injury. Colt McCoy (3a) received his first start against the Steelers after injuries to Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace. In the preseason win over Chicago, McCoy completed 13 of 13 passes for 131 yards. Shawn Lauvao (3b) backup right guard behind Floyd Womack. Larry Asante (5) on practice squad. Carlton Mitchell (6a) reserve wide receiver. Inactive through 5 games. Clifton Geathers (6b) released and claimed off waivers by Miami. CFA/53: none.

PITTSBURGH – Maurkice Pouncey (1) starting center in all five games. Was the first center drafted by the Steelers since the 1937 NFL draft. Jason Worilds (2) backup outside linebacker has played in four games and has three tackles including a sack. Emmanuel Sanders (3) reserve receiver. Made two catches in the Cleveland game for 37 yards. Backs up Mike Wallace and Arnaz Battle. Thaddeus Gibson (4) backup for James Harrison at right outside linebacker.(Cut on 11/1/10 Signed by 49ers) Chris Scott (5a) physically unable to play. Crezdon Butler (5b) reserve right corner. Stevenson Sylvester (5c) reserve inside linebacker that has played in five games. Has four tackles including a forced fumble. Jonathan Dwyer (6a) reserve running back. Antonio Brown (6b) reserve wide receiver and kick returner. Has seven kick returns for 219 yards, averaging 31.3 yards per return, including an 89-yard touchdown. Doug Worthington (7) released. CFA/53: none.

AFC West: Early Rookie Reviews....

DENVER – Demaryius Thomas (1a) plucked eight balls for 97 yards and a touchdown in first game after returning from injury, but has had a problem staying healthy. Leads all rookies, averaging 33 yards on five kickoff returns. Tim Tebow (1b) reserve quarterback, scored first touchdown on run versus the Jets in game six. Zane Beadles (2) rotates with Ryan Harris at right tackle. JD Walton (3a) starting center. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - Position/wall off type blocker. Creates inside running lanes by turning the down defender. Solid on the block back or “choke” block. Plays on his feet. Good agility and balance in close quarters. Plays with a good base and works to finish his blocks. Good hand quickness to lock out and position hands on the breast plate and get push on his target. Strong and crafty. Eric Decker (3b) backs up Eddie Royal at the slot receiver position. Perrish Cox (5) backs up Champ Bailey at left corner and is a reserve kick returner. Eric Olsen (6) reserve left guard. Syd’Quan Thompson (7a) reserve corner. Jammie Kirlew (7b) cut. CFA/53: Cassius Vaughn reserve corner, Mississipi.


KANSAS CITY – Eric Berry (1) starting strong safety. Has 27 tackles in first five games. Dexter McCluster (2a) flashes his explosiveness as a kick returner and wide receiver. Averaging 20.9 yards in eight returns in five games, including a 94-yard scamper for a touchdown. Javier Arenas (2b) backup right corner and kick return specialist along with McCluster. Averages 10.3 yards per punt return with a long of 36 yards in 11 returns. Jon Asamoah (3a) backs up Brian Waters at left guard. Tony Moeaki (3b) starting tight end and the Chiefs’ leading receiver with 18 catches for 194 yards and two touchdowns. Kendrick Lewis (5a) reserve free safety. Cameron Sheffield (5b) placed on injured reserve after suffering a neck injury during the preseason. CFA/53: Jeremy Horne-Murdock WR, Massachusetts. Justin Cole IB, San Jose State. Cory Greenwood OB, Concordia-Canada.

OAKLAND – Rolando McClain (1) starting middle linebacker. Third leading tackler on team with 33 stops in six games. Lamarr Houston (2) starting left defensive end. Nine tackles and one sack in six games. Jared Veldheer (3) started one game at center until Samson Satele returned. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - Four-year starter that is very athletic and competitive. Plays with good knee bend. Slides his feet in pass protection. Strong two arm extension. Maintains balance when sliding with defenders. Has the physical tools, but needs technique refinement. Bruce Campbell (4a) backup right guard. Jacoby Ford (4b) reserve wide receiver. Walter McFadden (5) backup left corner. Travis Goethel (6) reserve middle linebacker. Jeremy Ware (7a) reserve right corner. Stevie Brown (7b) on the practice squad. CFA/53: none.

SAN DIEGO – Ryan Mathews (1) starting running back. Carried the ball 55 times for 282 yards, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Has one touchdown. Also caught eight passes for 56 yards. Lost two fumbles. Did not play in the Seattle game due to ankle sprain. Donald Butler (3) on injured reserve due to a season ending Achilles tendon injury. Darrell Stuckey (4) reserve strong safety. Cam Thomas (5a) reserve nose tackle. Jonathan Crompton (5b) released. Dedrick Epps (7) claimed by Miami off of waivers. CFA/53: Brandon Lang OB, Troy.

NFC West: Early Rookie Reviews

ARIZONA – The Cardinals traditionally do as good a job of cultivating free agents as any team in the NFL and 2010 was no different. Max Hall won the quarterback spot by default and two receivers, Stephen Williams and Max Komar had impressive camps. Nose tackle Dan Williams (1) struggles with his weight which has kept him off the field and third team on the depth chart. Made three tackles. Inactive for three games. Daryl Washington (2) starts at left inside linebacker after an impressive preseason. Through six games he tallied 42 tackles, including ten against Atlanta. Newsletter Rehash: February 2010 - Shows good overall athletic ability. At his best in pursuit. Takes good angles and does a nice job on the backside when the play is away. Good range in pursuit and can be sudden in change of direction. Does a good job wading through the traffic. Shows coverage tools and takes good drops and breaks well on the ball. He recovers well and covers a lot of ground in zone coverage. Andre Roberts (3) missed most of preseason with a shoulder injury. First extended action came in the New Orleans’ win where he caught two passes for 27 yards. Struggled as a punt returner fielding a ball inside the 5-yard line and letting two punts drop and hit teammates for turnovers. O’Brien Schofield (4) placed on the non-football injury list (NFI) to rehabilitate his knee injured in the 2010 Senior Bowl. John Skelton (5) third quarterback, inactive through five games. Corner Jorrick Calvin (6) was traded to Philadelphia for running back Charles Scott. Jim Dray (7) is the third tight end. Has one catch for 24 yards. CFA/53: Stephen Williams WR, Toledo, has seven catches for 75 yards through five games. Max Komar WR, Idaho. Max Hall QB, BYU, won his first start against the New Orleans’ Saints, completing 17 of 27 passes for 168 yards. AJ Jefferson DC/KR, Fresno State, signed to practice squad after making the original 53-man roster.


ST. LOUIS – Sam Bradford (1) starter at quarterback and has impressed the Rams’ brass and fans with his poise and accuracy under fire. Bradford has thrown for 1357 yards and seven touchdowns, leading the Rams to a 3-3 record after six games. Rodger Saffold (2) started all six games at left tackle, allowing 2009 first round pick, Jason Smith to move to right tackle. Jerome Murphy (3) reserve left corner. Has played in five games making eight tackles, deflecting two passes, and grabbing one interception. Mardy Gilyard (4) backup wide receiver. Michael Hoomanawanui (5a) reserve tight end. Hall Davis (5b) claimed off waivers by Tennessee. Fendi Onobun (6a) reserve tight end. Eugene Sims (6b) reserve right defensive end. Marquis Johnson (7a) on the practice squad, injured reserve after knee surgery. George Selvie (7b) backup left defensive end. Played in all six games totaling nine tackles and 1 ½ sacks. Josh Hull (7c) on injured reserve due to a torn ACL. CFA/53: Dominique Curry WR, California (PA), placed on injured reserve with a torn right knee ACL. Thaddeus Lewis QB, Duke. Keith Toston RB, Oklahoma State. Jermelle Cudjo DT, Central Oklahoma. Darian Stewart FS, South Carolina.

SAN FRANCISCO – Anthony Davis (1a) starter at right tackle every preseason and season game. Works at staying low, getting good hand placement, and developing the proper footwork. Mike Iupati (1b) starter at left guard every preseason and season game. Impressive with pulls and fold blocks. Plays on his feet. Taylor Mays (2) starter at strong safety. Has 19 tackles and a forced fumble. Big play recovering ball in end zone for a touchdown versus New Orleans. Navorro Bowman (3) backup to Takeo Spikes at left inside linebacker. Has 18 tackles. Anthony Dixon (6a) reserve running back who led the NFL in rushing during the preseason with 300 yards on 74 carries and four touchdowns. His touchdown run against New Orleans is his only real work to this point. Also plays special teams. Nate Byham (6b) reserve tight end who was impressive catching the ball as well as blocking in the preseason. Kyle Williams (6c) reserve wide receiver. Phillip Adams (7) reserve left corner. CFA/53: Keaton Kristick IB, Oregon State.

SEATTLE – Russell Okung (1a) starting left tackle who missed the first three games because of high ankle sprain to his right ankle. Earl Thomas (1b) starting free safety since he stepped on the field. Ball hawked four interceptions and made 30 tackles through six games. Golden Tate (2) reserve wide receiver. Walter Thurmond (4a) backup left corner. EJ Wilson (4b) backs up right defensive end. Kam Chancellor (5) backup strong safety. Anthony McCoy (6) reserve tight end. Dexter Davis (7a) reserve left defensive end. Jameson Konz (7b) on injured reserve due to ankle injury. CFA/53: none.

AFC East Early Rookie Reviews....

BUFFALO – CJ Spiller (1) has shown flashes of explosiveness with his 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against New England in week three. Averages 26.5 yards on 24 returns. Was the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week. Torell Troup (2) backup nose tackle. Totaled eight tackles and one start through five games. Alex Carrington (3) backup left defensive end. Inactive first four games. Marcus Easley (4) wide receiver on injured reserve. Ed Wang (5) backup left tackle. Inactive through five games. Arthur Moats (6a) backs up Chris Kelsay at left outside linebacker. Four tackles in three active games. Danny Batten (6b) linebacker on injured reserve. Levi Brown (7a) third quarterback. Kyle Calloway (7b) released. CFA/53: Donald Jones reserve WR, Youngstown State. David Nelson WR, Florida, backs up Steve Johnson. Caught four passes for 75 yards versus the Jets. Cord Howard reserve OT, Georgia Tech earned his first start versus the Ravens on 10/24/10. Antonio Coleman reserve right OB, Auburn.

MIAMI – Jared Odrick (1) started first game and had a tackle for a loss. Has missed the next six games and was placed on injured reserve due to a broken leg. Koa Misi (2) starting strong side linebacker. Has three sacks included in his 12 tackles through five games. John Jerry (3) starting right guard. AJ Edds (4) on injured reserve due to a torn ACL in his right knee. Nolan Carroll (5a) reserve right corner. Rashad Jones (5b) backs up Chris Clemons at free safety. Chris McCoy (7a) released. Austin Spitler (7b) on the practice squad. CFA/53: Roberto Wallace WR, San Diego State. Marlon Moore WR, Fresno State

NEW ENGLAND – Devin McCourty (1) starter at left corner. Has 23 tackles through five games. Rob Gronkowski (2a) starter in several sub packages with Aaron Hernandez. Seven catches for 86 yards and two touchdowns. Impressive as red zone receiver and blocker in the preseason. Jermaine Cunningham (2b) starter at right outside linebacker. Has 11 tackles and one sack in five games. Brandon Spikes (2c) starter at inside linebacker. Has 31 tackles in five games. Taylor Price (3) reserve wide receiver with no catches through five games. Aaron Hernandez (4) starter in several sub packages with Gronkowski. The Patriots’ second leading receiver with 22 catches for 301 yards. Rushed twice for 31 yards. Zoltan Mesko (5) punter with a 44.2 yard average in 16 punts. Ted Larsen (6) claimed off waivers by Tampa Bay. Thomas Welch (7a) claimed off waivers by Minnesota. Brandon Deaderick (7b) backup left defensive end. Kade Weston (7c) on injured reserve due to an “internal injury”. Zac Robinson (7d) released and claimed off waivers by Seattle. CFA/53: Kyle Love NT, Mississippi State. Dave Fletcher OB, Montana State.

NEW YORK JETS – Kyle Wilson (1) starter at left corner when Darrelle Revis was out with hamstring injury. Nickel corner. Backup kick returner. Has 16 tackles in six games. Vladimir Ducasse (2) backup to left guard Matt Slauson. Newsletter Rehash: February 2010 - Long arms 34”. Talented but raw in his overall play. Needs some developmental time. Struggled against the edge speed counter moves. Overextends as a pass protector. Not a long torso guy, but is a good athlete despite long legs. A rough week against speed and power that he hasn’t seen before. Strong on down blocks. Joe McKnight (4) reserve running back. John Conner (5) rotates with Tony Richardson at fullback and is a special teams stalwart. CFA/53: Jeff Cumberland TE, Illinois.

NFC East: Early Rookie Reviews......

DALLAS – Dez Bryant (1) backup wide receiver that has made an impact as a punt returner. Started one of six games. Caught 18 passes for 211 yards and one touchdown through the first five games. On 10/25/10 against the Giants he accounted for 171 total yards and three touchdowns, including a 93-yard punt return for a score. Has been hampered by injuries in both the preseason and through six games. Sean Lee (2) reserve inside linebacker. Active in three of five games. Finished the preseason strong with four tackles, including two sacks. Akwasi Owusu-Ansah (4) reserve strong safety and kickoff return specialist. Averaging 21.6 yards on 17 returns with a long of 40 yards. Sam Young (6a) reserve right tackle. Jamar Wall (6b) released, claimed by Houston, released and claimed by Philadelphia, on Eagles’ practice squad. Sean Lissemore (7) reserve right defensive end. Josh Brent (7) supplemental draft. Backs up Jay Ratliff at nose tackle. Six tackles in five games. CFA/53: Phil Costa OC, Maryland. Chris Gronkowski FB, Arizona. Barry Church SS, Toledo. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - Outstanding production over his career. Long arms and athletic. Good instincts. Closes quickly on the ball in front of him. Good zone awareness. Plays the run as good as any support player in this draft. Has size and loose hips to turn and run. Can cover slot receivers. Moved around for mismatches in the Rockets’ defensive scheme. He was put in a position to make plays by scouting report. Danny McCray FS, LSU.

NEW YORK GIANTS – Jason Pierre-Paul (1) backup left defensive end. Has four total tackles in four of six games played. Linval Joseph (2) backup at right defensive tackle. Two tackles in two games played. Chad Jones (3) NFI list after a car accident. Phillip Dillard (4) reserve middle linebacker. Mitch Petrus (5) backup right guard. Adrian Tracy (6) injured reserve due to surgery to repair ligament damage in his elbow. Matt Dodge (7) punter averaging 45.2 yards on 25 punts. CFA/53: Victor Cruz WR, Massachusetts, made a name for himself with three touchdown catches versus the Jets in his first preseason game. Put on injured reserve on 10/22/10 after a severe hamstring injury. Duke Calhoun WR, Memphis.

PHILADELPHIA – Brandon Graham (1) starter at left defensive end. In six games, Graham has 13 tackles including two sacks. Nate Allen (2a) starting free safety. Has been in on 30 tackles in six games, including one sack. He also has three interceptions. Daniel Te’o-Nesheim (2b) reserve defensive end. Trevard Lindley (4a) backup right corner. Has an interception and four tackles in three games played. Keenan Clayton (4b) backup weak side linebacker. Impressed during preseason. Michael Kafka (4c) third quarterback. Clay Harbor (4d) backup to Brent Celek at tight end. Ricky Sapp (5a) on injured reserve due to torn ACL. Riley Cooper (5b) backup wide receiver. Charles Scott (6) claimed off waivers by Giants after being traded to Arizona for Jorrick Calvin. Jamar Chaney (7a) reserve middle linebacker, backing up Stewart Bradley. Getting more playing time on special teams while learning the defensive scheme. Jeff Owens (7b) on the practice squad. Kurtis Coleman (7c) backup strong safety. CFA/53: Clinton Howard OT, Northern Iowa. Jorrick Calvin DC, Troy, acquired in a trade with Arizona – did not play in college in 2009.

WASHINGTON – Trent Williams (1) starting left tackle. Perry Riley (4) backup right inside linebacker. Dennis Morris (6) released. Terrence Austin (7a) on the practice squad. Erik Cook (7b) on the practice squad. Selvish Capers (7c) on the practice squad. CFA/53: Brandon Banks WR/PR, Kansas State. Newsletter Rehash: 2010 Draft Guide - Two-year starter. Junior college transfer. An undersized speedster with inconsistent hands. Water bug type darter that is elusive in the open field. Quick in and out of cuts, but needs route refinement. Was voted the Big 12 special teams player of the year. Had four kickoff returns for touchdowns in 2009. Logan Paulsen TE, UCLA. Keiland Williams RB, LSU.

NFL Draft Class of 2010 How They're doing.......

Football players, like prostitutes, are in the business of ruining their bodies for
the pleasure of strangers.” – Merle Kessler


Defensive backs, linebackers, and Ndamukong Suh headline early rookie reviews. Last year, rookie receivers were impressive with their ball catching skills and run after catch ability. In 2010, defensive backs were drafted to cover those dynamic receivers. TJ Ward (Browns), Nate Allen (Eagles), Eric Berry (Chiefs), Morgan Burnett (Packers), Earl Thomas (Seahawks), and Cody Grimm (Bucs) are safeties who have been instinctive in their run support and coverage. Hitting, within the new NFL Guidelines, has also been in their job description. Corners Alterraun Verner (Titans), Kareem Jackson (Texans), Devin McCourty (Patriots), Chris Cook (Vikings), Joe Haden (Browns), Patrick Robinson (Saints), Perrish Cox (Broncos), and Kyle Wilson (Jets) have all shown positive signs in one of the leagues’ toughest positions. Detroit’s Suh has 4 ½ sacks in six games and has been a sideline to sideline beast in the run game.(Suh added 2 more sacks in the Redskin game for a total of 6 1/2 plus a fumble recovery TD) Teammate Jahvid Best has been the most impressive rookie back. Sam Bradford has been nothing short of amazing, leading the Rams to three wins in seven games, all the while adjusting to a bevy of new receivers, offensive line reconstruction, and Steven Jackson’s back issues.

Undrafted Rookie: LeGarrette Blount, Running back Tampa Bay Bucs

LeGarrette Blount was signed by the Titans as a free agent and was claimed by Tampa Bay on waivers and made their 53 man roster.
The burly downhill runner tallied two touchdowns and 119 yards for the Bucs in their win over Arizona. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Blount:

Blount, LeGarrette Oregon 6004 241 4.72

Had zero starts for the Ducks. Physical running back that plays in a spread offense. Strong runner that has good speed and is not easy to bring down. More of an upright runner that can get downhill with good vision and running instincts. Determined straight ahead runner. A goal-line type back that can muscle his way into the end zone. Gains yards after initial contact. Gives effort and finishes his runs with power. An aggressive back that doesn’t shy away from contact. Flashes some shiftiness in the open field. Athletic enough to hurdle low cutting defensive backs. Had 17 touchdowns in 2008, alternating with Jeremiah Johnson. A junior college transfer, he was suspended in February 2009 for missing conditioning workouts and academic class work. Was suspended from 9/4/09 to late November after fight in Boise State game. A high maintenance back with talent. OSR:19/28. Third/fourth round. (A-33 1/2, H-10, BP-19, SS-4.50).

Undrafted Rookie: Barry Turner, Defensive end, Chicago Bears

Barry Turner is one of several undrafted rookies that made a 53 man roster that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Turner:

Turner, Barry Nebraska 6033 254 4.74

Two-year starter. A fast twitch high motor player that was a part of that strong Cornhusker defensive front. Productive edge rusher that can get bigger and play in a 4-3 or rush the passer from a 3-4 scheme. Works to finish the plays. A right place at the right time guy. Controls the opponent with strong hands. Can play the run at him or string it out to the sideline. Doesn’t stay blocked. Uses his hands to separate and get to the ball. Good awareness of double team. Good tackler to stop ball carrier in his tracks. Good hip and knee flex to bend and play low. Injury history including shoulder surgery and a broken leg. Not a Combine invitee. Had 115 career tackles, 34 for loss, and 21 sacks. Had a 27.5/VJ and 9-3/BJ. Sixth/seventh round. (A-33 3/8, H-9 1/4, BP-16, 10-1.66).

Undrafted Rookie: Brandon Lang, Defensive end, San Diego

Brandon Lang is one of several undrafted rookies that made a 53 man roster. OURLADS' rated him as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Lang:

Lang, Brandon Troy 6036 260 5.05

Two-year starter. Very productive in college. Did not jump out with any special skills in practices or in the Senior Bowl game. Was 35th out of 35 ends in the Combine workouts. Short arms and small hands. Ran a slow 40 for his position. His edge speed from the left side at the Combine correlated with his pass rush productivity in college. He has an explosive first step. Struggles with the run right at him. When he sees the ball he goes to get it, but has average instincts. Needs to improve his functional upper and lower body strength. Good lateral quickness. Doesn’t stay blocked. Quick to shed. Gets his hands up to rush the passer. Doesn’t give up on the play. Has run through a back to make a sack. Plays high and leaves his legs exposed. Needs more consistency in his game. Plays better than he tests. Has 147 career tackles, 38 1/2 for loss, 24 1/2 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles. Edge speed:left 1.89, right 2.17. OSR:35/35. Sixth/seventh round. (A-32, H-8 1/2, BP-20, 10-1.68).

Undrafted Rookie: Danario Alexander,WR, St.Louis Rams

Danario Alexander is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. The former Missouri Tiger was signed off the practice squad and caught 4 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown in the recent win over the San Diego Chargers. What the 2010 OURLADS'DRAFT GUIDE said about Alexander:

Alexander, Danario Missouri 6045 221 4.59

Started 16 games over his career. Injured in a Senior Bowl practice. Ultra productive senior year. Big horizontal target that can make plays down the field. Good leaping ability. Fights for extra yards after catch. Flashes a quick upfield burst after snatching a bubble screen. Plays big in big games. Makes plays. Long strider that picks up speed as he goes vertical. Experienced route runner that can get open in zone or man coverage. However, he needs more route refinement. Can make the great catch to keep a drive going. Plucks the ball and plays with confidence. Has an injury history. May or may not be drafted. Did not work out at the Combine because of knee surgery. In 2009 he had 113 catches for 1781 yards, 15.8 average, and 14 touchdowns. Fourth/fifth round. (A-34 3/4, H-10, VJ-DNP, SS-DNP).

Undrafted Rookie: Kevin Haslam, Offensive Tackle, Jackonville Jaguars

Kevin Haslam is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player and made NFL rosters. What the 2010 OURLADS' Draft Guide said about Haslam:

Haslam, Kevin Rutgers 6046 304 5.65

Two years as a full-time starter. Stays square with a good base in pass protection. Can shadow and mirror pass rusher. Pushes the rusher up the field. Works to bend his knees as a pass protector and run blocker. Efficient as a zone run blocker. Will make a team because he can play both guard and tackle. Versatile. Athletic in his movement. Struggles with power at him. Position wall off blocker. Efficient on combo blocks to the second level. Sixth/seventh round. (A-33 1/2, H-9 1/4, BP-24, 10-1.89).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Keiland Williams,Washington Redskins

Keiland Williams is one of several undrafted rookies that made a 53 man roster. OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Williams:

Williams, Keiland LSU 5107 233 4.51

Started three games over career. Was a reserve for Charles Scott. Broke his ankle in the fourth quarter of the Mississippi game (11/23/09) and was lost for the year. Good cutback vision. Big back with good speed. Never the “guy” at LSU, was always in a rotation. Has wear left on his tires. Catches the ball in his hands. Passes the look test. More power than elusive. Good quickness, agility, and balance in the open field. Has talent. Unknown if he can hold up if he is counted on to carry the load. Will contribute on kickoff return special teams. Career rushing marks include 299 carries for 1699 yards, 5.6 average, 17 touchdowns, along with 28 catches for 273 yards and 2 touchdowns. Did not work out at the Combine due to left ankle fracture. Seventh round/priority free agent. (A-30, H-8 3/4, BP-16, SS-DNP).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Michael Palmer,Tightend, Atlanta Falcons

Michael Palmer is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player and made NFL rosters. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Palmer:


Palmer, Michael Clemson 6052 240 4.80


Three-year starter. Has dependable and consistent soft hands. Good concentration to react to the ball in a crowd. Understands spacing in routes. Has good field awareness. Can make the overhead catch. Will reach and extend for ball. Particularly sharp when running down the middle of cover-two and getting behind the linebackers and making a play. Can see and adjust to the ball in flight. A one-speed player that is a position wall off blocker. Needs more upper and lower body strength as an inline blocker. Blocks on the move. In 2009 caught 43 passes for 507 yards, averaging 11.8 yards per catch and scoring four touchdowns. Seventh round/priority free agent. (A-NA, H-NA, BP-20, VJ-29.5).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Donald Jones, Buffalo Bills, Wide Receiver

Donald Jones is one of several undrafted rookies that made a 53 man roster. OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Jones:

Jones, Donald Youngstown St. 6003 214 4.51

Two-year starter. Junior college transfer. An outstanding athlete with good size and hands. Raw in his ability to come out of his breaks to create space. Good vision and leaping ability. Can focus and track the ball. Has the foot quickness to get off press coverage. Has some run after catch ability. Good body control. Needs work on all the nuances of receiver play, but has some interesting tools. For his career he caught 108 passes for 1300 yards, 12.0 average, and 13 touchdowns. Bench pressed 20 reps of 225. OSR:4/37. Sixth/seventh round. (A-32, H-9, VJ-41, SS-4.22)

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE:Junior Galette,Defensive end/Outside Linebacker, New Orleans Saints

Junior Galette is one of several undrafted rookies that made a 53 man roster. OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about Galette:

Galette, Junior Stillman 6016 257 4.80

Started parts of four years. Played his first three years at Temple before transferring in 2009. A long armed productive outside linebacker with pass rush skills. A 3-4 hybrid rush end who has over 70 minus yardage tackles in his career. Explosive first step in his pass rush (1.65/10). A good athlete that has exceptional change of direction ability (4.16/20). At this point he is an outside speed rusher only. Lacks the size and the strength to stack the run. Has 195 tackles, 44 tackles for loss, and 26 1/2 sacks in his career. OSR:20/35. Sixth/seventh round. (A-33, H-9, BP-25, SS-4.16).

REHASH: Max Hall, Arizona Cardinals

Arizona's Max Hall became the first rookie free agent quarterback to start a game in the NFL since Jim Zorn in 1976. The Cardinal's upset New Orleans 30-20. What OURLADS'DRAFT GUIDE said about Hall:

Hall, Max BYU 6005 209 4.77

Three-year starter. Arizona State transfer, older and more mature. Was on a mission and came back and had an excellent sophomore season and has built on that the last two years. Plays in both the I-formation and shotgun sets. Very accurate. Quick to setup point, getting away from the center. Only Levi Brown had more ball velocity than Hall at the Combine. Good mechanics with good foot quickness. A passer that has touch and velocity to 40-45 yards. Puts the ball on the money, hitting receivers in stride on wheel routes, seams, and swing passes. A good leader that is reliable, smart, and competitive. Good anticipation on downfield routes. Compact arm with a quick delivery. Looks like he’s playing hot potato when he catches the ball in shotgun and gets it out to his tight end or backs. Can throw on the move with touch and accuracy. Can avoid the rush. Good athlete. In BYU’s upset over Oklahoma, he passed for 329 yards, hitting 26 of 38 passes for 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Threw for seven touchdowns against UCLA. Ball velocity of 52 miles per hour. Had a 65.3% completion rate with 903/1382, 11365 yards, 94 touchdowns, and 40 interceptions over his career. OSR:6/16. Sixth/seventh round. (A-30, H-9, SS-4.38, VJ-32).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Sam Shields, Green Bay

Sam Shields is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' Draft Guide said about Shields:

Shields, Sam Miami 5106 183 4.46

One-year starter at corner after playing receiver for three years. Natural ball skills and quick hands. Good leaping ability. Plays the ball in the air. Played in the Texas vs. Nation All-Star game. Has elite corner speed and quickness. Has the courage to support the run. Demonstrates natural instincts and reactions. Needs technique work but was hard to shake during the week. Plays gunner on punt coverage team. Miami’s Special Teams Player of the Year. Off field red flag may cause him to go undrafted, but could sign as a free agent like Bruce Johnson in 2009. Not invited to the Combine. Had 51 career tackles and 2 passes broken up. Seventh round/priority free agent. (A-31 1/8, H-10, VJ-39, SS-4.19).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Blair White, Indianapolis Colts, Wide receiver

Blair White is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. White was elevated from the practice squad and caught a TD pass from Peyton Manning against the Jaguars. What the 2010 OURLADS' Draft Guide said about White:


White, Blair Michigan State 6022 209 4.49

Two-year starter. A big, physical, smart, and athletic receiver that should find a place on an NFL roster. A hand catcher that started out cradling the ball early in the East-West Shrine game practices. Every practice he got better and more comfortable plucking the ball in his hands. Can make the fingertip catch. Has strong hands. Demonstrates the courage to go over the middle, make the play, and take a hit. Former walk-on that is mentally and physically tough. A consistent and clever route runner that knows how to separate and get open. An aggressive down the field blocker that can bang off the corner then move on to the safety. Contributes on special teams return units. An Academic All-American that is headed to dental school after his pro career. In 2009 he had 70 catches for 990 yards, 14.1 average, and 9 touchdowns. OSR:10/37. Fourth/fifth round. (A-31 1/2, H-9 3/8, SS-33.5, SS-4.06).

UNDRAFTED ROOKIE: Brandon Banks, Washington Redskins,Wide receiver/Kick returner

Brandon Banks is one of several undrafted rookies that OURLADS' rated as a draftable player. What the 2010 OURLADS' Draft Guide said about Banks:

Banks, Brandon Kansas State 5066 149 4.39


Two-year starter. Junior college transfer. An undersized speedster with inconsistent hands. Ball security problems are correctable. Water bug type darter that is elusive in the open field. Quick in and out of cuts, but needs route refinement. Good open field awareness, vision, and play making ability. Has 123 catches in two years, good for 1754 yards. Was voted the Big 12 special teams player of the year. Had four kickoff returns for touchdowns in 2009. Averaged 9.1 yards as a punt returner. Makes questionable decisions at times. Durability will always be a question. OSR:29/37. Fifth/sixth round. (A-30, H-8 1/4, VJ-31, SS-4.29).

A STAR IS BORN, Detroit's Jahvid Best

The Lion's running back Jahvid Best was the first rookie in NFL history to rush for 75 yards,have 150 yards in receiving and score three touchdowns in a game. He also scored five touchdowns in his first two games. What OURLADS' DRAFT GUIDE said about him: Jahvid Best California 5101 199 4.38
Junior entry. Two-year starter. An explosive and talented back with quick reactions. Smooth North/South runner that finishes his runs. Plays fast. Sudden into the hole and demonstrates unique running skills and instincts. Has a natural feel for running the ball. Good vision. Has the ability to create positive yardage on poorly blocked plays. Patient to the hole and lets the block set up. Gives the defender a leg then takes it away. Can plant and cut without the loss of speed. Can dip in and burst outside. Has a thick lower body and good contact balance. Good hit and spin move. Rare cut back ability and speed. Runs the zone read out of the I-formation. Also runs plays out of the spread formation. A difference maker that gets to the second level with instant acceleration. Good agility in traffic. Always going forward. Slippery. Not easy to tackle. Good hands to catch all pass routes. Good eye/hand coordination. Durability is a question mark because of an annual pattern of missing some games with injury. Led the country in rushing with 1580 yards in 2008. Career stats are 364 rushes for 2668 yards, 7.3 yards per carry, and 29 touchdowns. He also caught 62 passes for 533 yards and 6 touchdowns. OSR:3/28. First round. (A-31 3/4, H-9, BP-18, SS-4.16).

R.I.P Kenny McKinley,Denver Broncos

Kenny McKinley former South Carolina Gamecock's All-Time leading receiver died today of a reportedly self-inflicted gun shot in his Denver,Col. home. McKinley was on the reserve/injured list after his second knee surgery in two years. What OURLADS GUIDE said about his pro potential in 2009:

McKinley, Kenny; South Carolina 6003 189 4.42
Four-year starter. Deep threat that can make the over the shoulder catch. Closes the cushion quickly. Snatches the ball with his hands. Always seems to be behind the secondary. Elusive after catch. Can make the first defender miss in space. Courage to catch the ball over the middle. Slippery run after catch ability. Avoids traffic after catch. Good field awareness. Two of his best assets are his field vision and feet. Good quickness in and out of breaks. He waits on a lot of balls. Plays quicker than competition. Can separate and get open. Secures the ball after catch. Makes the off target reception. Plays fast. No hold up on release. Can control his body in the air. Drops his weight and comes out of cuts at hard angles. A willing blocker that can adjust on the move. OSR:9/38. Third round. (A-31 1/4, H-9, VJ-37, SS-4.10).

Our condolences to all his friends and family.

Darian Stewart,St. Louis Rams, Free Safety

Darian Stewart was signed as a free agent by the St. Louis Rams and made the 53 man roster. What Ourlads said about him in the 2010 Draft GUIDE:

Stewart, Darian South Carolina 5110 216 4.58
Three-year starter that is athletic and versatile. Has played three secondary positions. Looks as physical as he plays in run support. Effective on edge blitzes. Plays linebacker in nickel packages. Explosive in run support. Good ability to key and diagnose a play quickly. Competitive and intense in his play. Generally a solid tackler with good body control. Productive in his play. Can be beat in coverage with the wrong mismatches.Loose hips for a smooth turn. Good timing and leaping ability. Good body control and lateral movement. Good ball reactions to knock down or strip the ball. Closes quickly on the ball carrier in front of him. A good box run playing safety. Will contribute on all special teams coverage. Over his career he had 197 tackles, 20 passes broken up, 2 interceptions, and 6 forced fumbles. BTR:left 4.35, right 4.53. OSR:14/21. Fifth/sixth round. (A-32 1/8, H-9, VJ-37, SS-4.34).

Barry Church, Dallas Cowboys, Strong Safety

Barry Church signed as a free agent with Dallas and made the 53 man Roster. What Ourlads said about him in the 2010 Draft GUIDE:

Church, Barry Toledo 6014 222 4.67
Four-year starter. Outstanding production over his career. Long arms and athletic. Good instincts. Closes quickly on the ball in front of him. Good zone awareness. Plays the run as good as any support player in this draft. Has size and loose hips to turn and run. Can cover slot receivers. Moved around for mismatches in the Rockets’ defensive scheme. He was put in a position to make plays by scouting report. Used as an edge pass rusher at times. Physical player that throws his body around. Nose for the ball. A hybrid linebacker in a 4-2-5 scheme. Can play coverage on wide receivers. Pressures the quarterback on safety blitzes. Active and a wrap tackler in the run game. Sheds blockers without holdup. Good agility getting through traffic in pursuit to make plays. Over his career he had 354 tackles, 18 passes broken up, 9 interceptions, and 6 forced fumbles. BTR:left 4.50, right 4.47. OSR:5/21. Fourth/fifth round. (A-33 1/4, H-9 3/8, VJ-36, SS-4.19).

OURLADS' HIGHEST GRADED NOT DRAFTED....BUT MADE A TEAM AS A FREE AGENT

The Arizona Cardinals signed A.J. Jefferson as a free agent and made the 53 man roster. What Ourlads said about him in the 2010 Draft GUIDE:

Jefferson, AJ Fresno State 6001 193 4.48
Two-year starter. Top rated defensive back athletic workout at the Combine. Outstanding kickoff return specialist averaging 32.2 yards per return in his career. Played only two years of high school football. Speed and athletic ability is his game. Still learning how to play corner. Needs technique work in both man to man and zone coverage concepts. Has short area and lateral quickness. Ball skills are off. Plays the receiver, not the ball. Can bend his knees and drop his butt in his backpedal. Some wasted motion and false steps in transition. However, has hip flexibility. A drag down type tackler. A developmental corner with raw tools. Productive with a 32.2 kickoff return average and 2 touchdowns in his career. Had 108 career tackles and broke up 12 passes. BTR:left 4.51, right 4.33. OSR:1/29. Fourth/fifth round. (A-32 1/2, H-9 1/4, VJ-44, SS-4.00).

ROOKIE SPOTLIGHT: DEXTER MC CLUSTER,KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Dexter McCluster set a Chiefs record with a 94-yard punt return for a touchdown in a win over San Diego. What OURLADS said about him in the 2010 GUIDE:


McCluster, Dexter Mississippi 5086 172 4.56
Started 29 games in his career. Ultra quick but undersized explosive back/receiver combination. Good route runner with dependable hands. Third down type back. Slippery. Can make the tackler miss in the open field with rare quickness. A small framed runner with a slender lower body that is dangerous and a threat to go the distance. Speed and quickness to turn the corner and shake a defensive back with his quick feet. A playmaker that is explosive into and out of the hole. Fearless to go after the ball in flight and lay out. Takes the direct snap in the Wildcat formation. Weaves and accelerates through traffic. Explosive on designed cut back plays. A tough kid with courage. Will try to block. Lacks bulk. Durability will always be a concern because of his build and running style. Electric out of Wildcat. Good contact balance. Quick stop and go moves. Can burst by the tacklers. Quickness and speed to outrun angles (see Tennessee game.) Good running skills, vision, and cutting ability. A darter. For his career he had 304 rushes for 1955 yards, 6.4 yards per carry, and 15 touchdowns. He also had 130 receptions for 1703 yards and 7 touchdowns. Has rare strength for his size. OSR:12/28. Second/third round. (A-29 1/4, H-8 3/8, BP-20, SS-4.05).

Ourlads Rehash 2009 GUIDE: ARIAN FOSTER, Houston Texans

Foster, Arian Tennessee 6006 226 4.60
Started 33 games over the past four years. Rotated with Montario Hardesty. Versatile back that can run and catch. Power runner that can turn the corner. Good balance. Effective on the inside zone running plays out of the one back set. Question ball security. Best running between the tackles. Lacks long finish speed. One speed downhill runner with limited burst. Ball control type back. Appeared to shut it down his senior year and was not nearly as productive as in previous years. Upright runner that lacks the power he showed previously. Lacked consistency and the ability to hold onto the ball. Lacked the confidence to be a playmaker at crunch time. Not dependable and reliable to make the plays when needed. Injury history is a concern. Question competitiveness. Long arms. Left the Senior Bowl with a hamstring injury after the first day. Did not workout at the Combine.Ourlads grade: Seventh round. (A-33 3/8, H-9 7/8, BP-23, SS-4.53). FOSTER HAD A BREAKOUT GAME AGAINST THE COLTS ON 9/12/10 WITH 231 YARDS. SECOND BEST OPENING DAY RUSHING PERFORMANCE IN NFL HISTORY. WAS SIGNED BY THE TEXANS AS A FREE AGENT. ELEVATED FROM THE PRACTICE SQUAD IN 2009.

2011 NFL Draft, Offensive Tackle, Nate Solder, Colorado

Three-year starter. Moved from tight end to tackle the spring of 2008. Long arms (34 ½”). A good athlete who can lock out and shock a defender in pass protection. Has a 32-inch vertical jump. Has quickness and functional strength. Easy light feet to slide laterally and adjust his block to a speed rusher. He can block the edge. Dominated Texas A&M pass rusher, Von Miller, in their head to head match up. Good body control and balance. Sudden to redirect. Knows how to use his long arms. Patient - lets the pass rusher come to him. Plays with natural knee bend. Can handle a defender’s spin move with foot quickness and balance. Uses good footwork to gain depth. Shows the ability to adjust and block different looks. Position wall off in the run game. Productive over career at left tackle.

2011 NFL Draft, Offensive Tackle, Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin

Four-year starter who plays on a team that wants to run the ball. Long arms (34 ½”) and big hands (10”). Plays in a pre-set stance when the team throws the ball. A long torso guy (good trait) who works to keep his hands inside. Will compete. Had a three hour battle with Eagle first round pick Brandon Graham last year. Effective as a run blocker and pass protector. Works to keep his knees bent. Has the ability to regain body control and balance. Mentally and physically tough player. Plays with attitude and aggression while maintaining a good power base. Stays square to shadow rusher and run them up the field past the quarterback. Gets depth quickly in pass pro. Will cut off defenders away from play. Maintains contact with target and works to finish. Better in close quarters than in space.

NFL 2011 Draft, Offensive Tackle, Anthony Castonzo, Boston College

Four-year starter. Has started 41 straight games heading into his senior year. First true freshman to start for Boston College in 10 years. Long arms (34 1/8”) and big hands (10 ¼”). Typical BC offensive tackle – tall, tough, and physical in his play. A mauler who is always looking to hit somebody. Plays left tackle, but is more of a right tackle type. Rangy but not smooth. Physically and mentally tough. A quick learner which is a definite requirement to start early in his NFL career. Has the ability to quick set and redirect with natural body control in his pass pro. He has the agility and balance to block good defensive ends. He wore out #94 Armond Armstead (USC’s end) in the Emerald Bowl. Has the ability to mirror, wall off, change direction, and recover. Does a good job downfield to keep his feet and stay up on his block. Demonstrates the quickness to get position in the run game and keep it. Sticks to his block.

2011 NFL Draft, Center, Kris O'Dowd, Southern Cal

Injuries have kept O’Dowd from being a four-year starter as he was nicked up parts of the past three seasons. Nevertheless, if he passes NFL physicals, he has the talent to start on Sundays. He demonstrates a good combination of foot quickness and ease of movement. Has quick initial contact as an inline blocker and is strong enough to tie up the down defender and get push. A natural knee bender, he reacts to different looks and plays with good instincts. Can run block and adjust on the move. Gives a good downfield effort and is proficient on combo blocks to the second level. Forces separation in pass protection. Good base and feet, balance, and use of hands.

2011 NFL Draft, Guard, Rodney Hudson, Florida State

Four-year starter at left guard. Awarded the Jacobs’ Blocking Trophy in 2009 as the best offensive lineman in the conference. May project to center for some teams because of size. Hudson is the classic “don’t look at the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.” Plays with the speed and agility to pull and be effective on the second level. Possesses rare foot quickness to execute a variety of blocks in run blocking and pass protection. Plays with functional strength and leverage to handle larger defensive linemen. Athletic enough to zone block, double team, combo, trap, and log as well as lead through the hole and around the edge. If production is based on consistency for an offensive lineman, Hudson has only been penalized three times in three years and averages one missed assignment for every 112 plays. String of 28 straight starts was ended by missing the final two games of 2009 with a knee strain. Everything about his game is sudden – weight transfer and change of direction, space adjustment, body control and balance recovery, set quickness, base and reach blocks, and punch and use of hands. Active downfield.Gets push in the run game. Drives his feet on contact. A three for one player, however he did start one game as a freshman at left tackle. Potential Pro Bowl center.

2011 NFL Draft, Guard, Mike Pouncey, Florida

Three-year starter. Twin brother of Steelers’ first round draft choice Maurkice Pouncey. Projects to play offensive guard on the next level, but is versatile enough to back up every position on the offensive line. May be too tall to play with leverage at center. Feisty and competitive. Plays with an ornery streak. Relishes contact. A mauler on down blocks. Good hip and knee flexibility at guard where he can change direction and move in on a moving target and finish his block. Good effort to seal on the second level and block downfield. Good lateral agility and quickness versus a slant move. Explosive punch and use of hands. Gains control and locks out. Has the ability to create separation. Plays on his feet. In pass protection he plays in a pre-set stance with a good base and balance. Can slide, mirror, and adjust his feet. As a freshman he moved from the offensive line to the defensive line because of injuries and played in every game.

2011 NFL Draft, Center, Stefen Wisniewski, Penn State

Three-year starter who may be the best center or guard in the 2011 draft. Has starting experience at both center and guard. Consistent in his overall play. Experience at both the shotgun and conventional snap. Explosive. A knee bender who can roll his hips, shock, control, and drive a defender with leverage and strength. Stays balanced when blocking on the move. In pass pro he controls his opponent with hand quickness, stab, punch, and placement on the breast plate. Mentally tough in both the run game and pass protection. Maintains and sustains pass protection and run block with good base and position. Gains an advantage with his quickness on the snap. Plays with attitude and aggression. Can quick position a defender and run his feet on contact. Good lateral agility. Has the strength to anchor versus power. Father Leo and uncle Steve starred at Penn State d played in the NFL.

2011 NFL Draft, Tight End, DJ Williams, Arkansas

Three-year starter. Not your old school NFL prototype tight end, but another of the new wave offensive utility specialists. Williams’ specialty is catching the ball. As a sophomore he was a Mackey Award finalist as he led the team with 61 catches for 723 yards and 3 touchdowns. Nearly half of his catches were for first downs. As a junior he snatched 32 passes for 411 yards. Can pluck the ball with his nimble hands. Can make the tough catch and hold the ball on contact. Athletic after catch. Good open field instincts. Good stop and go quickness. Can turn a short reception into a long gain. Has the ability to quick set with body quickness, change of direction, and redirect in pass pro. Can improve his run blocking technique, but lacks size and strength to be a dominant edge blocker. He does give effort to tie up defender. Good combo blocks to the second level. As a receiver he has good body control to come out of his cuts smoothly with a burst to separate. Fluid, not stiff or mechanical in movements. Can get vertical and horizontal separation depending on his match-ups. Has the speed to get deep. Gets open versus man to man and zone coverage. Plays tackle on the punt coverage team.

2011 NFL Draft, Tight End, Luke Stocker, Tennessee

Three years starting experience. The Vols rotated several tight ends over the past three years and Stocker benefited as the pass receiver in most formations. Caught 29 passes for 389 yards and five touchdowns in 2009. Caught five passes for 78 yards and a touchdown against Kentucky in the season finale. Plays in the classic tight end position and slot, but also aligns as an H-back and fullback where he motions and blocks on the run. Athletic and competitive in his play. Works hard in his role as a blocker. Sticks his man and sustains as an inline blocker. Bends his knees and plays low. Works to get his body in position on the second level to block linebackers. Breaks down well to slide and shadow. Can get his target turned. Aggressive and productive. Plays with a good base. Can adjust on the move. Works to finish. Catches the ball in his hands. Good concentration. Finds the open area and turns his numbers to the quarterback. Good speed in the crossing routes. Big target. Demonstrates good body control and cutting ability when running the hide routes. Quick in and out of pattern.

2011 NFL Draft,Wide Receiver, Niles Paul,Nebraska

Two-and-a-half year starter who was very productive in the run oriented Husker offense. Caught 40 passes, averaging 19.9 yards per catch. The big play receiver had nine catches for 35 yards or longer. He was second in the Big-12 in kickoff returns averaging 27.9 yards and punt returns averaging 10.7 yards. A big receiver with explosive speed (ran down a defender from behind who intercepted a pass.) Plays with average quarterbacks and is accustomed to making off-target catches. Runs like a running back after he catches the ball. Makes the catch, secures the ball, and can break a tackle or make the defender miss. Good running instincts. Will lay out for the ball. Competes for the ball in tight quarters. Good blocking effort on the perimeter. Tough and willing to go over the middle and catch a square-in route in traffic. West Coast type receiver who can catch the inside breaking routes. Comes back to the ball. Runs routes off motion. Athletic in his movement. Can create separation with double moves.

2011 NFL Draft, Wide Receiver, Greg Little, North Carolina

Three-year starter. Talented and athletic as any wide receiver in the 2011 draft, including projected juniors. The sticky wicket in Little’s production lies in the quarterback position where TJ Yates threw more interceptions than touchdown passes and consistently missed open receivers. The upside for the big receiver was that almost every catch he made was spectacular and magical. Has started at both running back and wide receiver during his career. Does it all – blocks, catches, and runs strong after catch. Slashes through arm tackles and finishes the play. Goes up after the ball at the high point with his strong hands and positions his body between the ball and defender. An impact player with long arms and big hands. Possesses natural ball skills. Plucks the ball away from his body. Has the foot quickness to beat press coverage. Can avoid and shows a burst to get upfield and separate. Big and strong enough for inside breaking routes. Good hip flexibility and knee bend. Adjusts to the flight of the ball and competes to catch it. Produced against good competition. Caught 62 passes for 724 yards and had 5 touchdowns. He averaged 5.7 yards per carry as a running back. According to the University of North Carolina, Little will not travel to play in season opener versus LSU. As many as 12 players may not participate in the game. Defensive tackle Marvin Austin is suspended indefinately.

2011 NFL Draft, Fullback, Stanley Havili, Southern California

Four-year starter who is versatile and productive. The true fullback position on most NFL teams is going by the wayside with leather helmets and button under crotch jerseys. Ball clubs are using tight ends, defensive linemen, or linebackers as lead blockers. Every year there is at least one true short-necked fullback that grew into playing the position. This year it is Havili. He is the total package of good blocking skills, hands to catch all the pass routes, and productivity as a runner. The former running back brings good running skills to the table along with the above mentioned attributes. He has good vision, feet, strength, and power between the tackles and in short yardage situations. Finishes his runs with effort and authority. A good athlete who flashes a burst around the corner. Not easy to tackle in the open field on screen passes. Can kick out or seal the edge force defender. A willing lead blocker who is explosive. Physical in his overall play.

2011 NFL Draft, Runningback, DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma

A four-year starter who has rotated with other backs over his career. A versatile athlete who plays in a spread offense. Has experience at wide receiver, in the slot, and takes the direct snap in the Wildcat along with his running back duties. As a freshman he averaged 29.3 yards per kickoff return. Solid overall run skills, inside and outside. Natural instincts and feel for running the ball. Quick reactions, vision, and has the ability to find and hit a crease with body lean. Runs with a low pad level and has good contact balance. Uses a strong stiff arm to ward off tacklers. A pick and slide type runner who is talented and can sidestep a tackler. Displays good hands to catch all the pass routes with good eye/hand coordination. Productive as a receiver with 86 catches for 977 yards in his career. Dependable and reliable to make plays as needed. A clutch player at crunch time. Productive over his career with 2471 yards rushing, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. Fifth in career touchdowns with 41 and fourth in all purpose yards. Three time first team All Big-12 Academic. In 2007 he suffered a hamstring injury on the opening kickoff in the Big-12 Championship and missed the BCS Championship game. Dislocated a knee cap in 2007 in the eleventh game.

2011 NFL Draft, Running back, Daniel Thomas, Kansas State.

Two-year starter. Junior college transfer. Big-12 Newcomer of the Year in 2009 when he led the league in rushing with 1265 yards. A physical runner who runs with his eyes. Excellent vision. A slasher who can make the defender miss in the open field. A versatile athlete who played quarterback in high school and junior college. Bounces the ball outside quickly and instinctively if there is no hole. He will also make the tough one and two yard runs with his strong leg drive. An intelligent runner who can break tackles after initial contact. Has a burst through the hole. A natural downhill north/south runner. Keeps his shoulders square. Not easy to tackle. An offensive weapon with good running skills and patience. Plays out at wide receiver, in the slot, I-formation tailback, and takes the direct snap in the Wildcat from the center. Has receiver type soft hands. Can adjust to a poor pass and pluck the ball. A hand catcher. He needs technique work on his route running and blocking, but displays effort. He can take punishment as a runner and play with pain. Good contact balance and athletic speed. More of an upright runner. Was recruited to Florida as a quarterback out of high school but spent two years at NW Mississippi Junior College after not qualifying. Spent 2008 at Butler (KS) Junior College and Manhattan (KS) Christian working on academics. Enrolled at Kansas State in July 2009.

2011 NFL Draft, Quarterback, Christian Ponder, Florida State

Will be a three year starter. Graduated in 2 ½ years and has been working on his MBA for the past year and a half. Learning complex NFL offenses will not be a problem. Has Kurt Warner type accuracy. Consistent ability to keep receivers on their routes with few adjustments. Throws a catchable ball with timing, touch, and rare ball placement to his receivers. Completed 68.8 percent of his passes. Patient passing the ball. Lets the play develop while reading coverages, then delivers ball. Equally skilled at throwing horizontal or vertical passes with accuracy. Quick release. Always ready to throw, keeps the ball up at shoulder level or above. No wasted motion. Tight spiral with velocity. Quick feet. Gets to throwing point quickly in conventional or shotgun alignments. Good mechanics. Can scramble out, gather himself, and throw accurately.Quick and fluid. A poised leader who doesn’t get rattled. Features the arm strength to fit the ball into tight spots in the “red zone.” Quick twitch from vision to launch point. He sees it, he hits it. Makes plays left or right on the move. Accurate on bootlegs and waggles. Played in nine games in 2009 before he had surgery on his right shoulder after being injured in the Clemson game. He is expected to be full go when the season starts September 4th.

2011 Draft,Quarterback, John Locker, Washington

Three-year starter who is a dynamic playmaker. Possesses all the tools and athletic ability to succeed on the next level. Broke his thumb in game four against Stanford in 2008 which slowed his progress. Played in 2009 with a group of young receivers that dropped several passes early in the year but proved to be talented skill players by season’s end. Returned to the Huskies in 2010 to continue his development under quarterback guru and head coach Steve Sarkisian. Fundamentally, Locker is an ascending player who can throw from the pocket or on the move from a variety of deliveries. Plays in both a spread offense where he takes shotgun snaps and a pro style where he accepts the ball from under center. His arm is strong enough to throw deep and all the sideline passes. He can zip the tough deep comeback route. Has the innate ability to speed up his delivery under a heavy rush and gets the ball out of his hand quickly and on time. Can hit a moving target in stride on vertical patterns down the field. Particularly dangerous on play action, bootlegs, and waggle plays because of his movement skills. Rare foot quickness to make plays on the move. Explosive burst upfield when he pulls the ball down if receivers are covered, or when he runs the quarterback draw. Led the PAC-10 in total offense averaging 265.7 yards per game, including 2800 yards passing. He threw for 21 touchdowns and had 11 interceptions. Has good accuracy, decision making skills, poise, and leadership qualities.

2011 NFL Draft, Strong Safety, DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson

.
Four-year starter. He has started every game in his career, 38 and counting. In 2007 he was moved from wide receiver to safety. He has 12 interceptions over the past three years. A good athlete with foot quickness and hip flexibility. Good change of direction. Demonstrates burst quickness in run support and overlap coverage. Has recover ability and closing quickness. Can play man to man or zone coverage. Sticks his foot in the ground and drives on the run or ball. Makes plays on his feet and off blockers. A contact player who has tackling courage. Will wrap up. Plays with confidence, poise, and toughness. Productive with 171 tackles in the past three years. Can judge and compete for the ball at the high point. Always in position to make a move on the ball. Gets a hand on the ball to knock it away. Plays the ball in the air. Has good range and takes good angles.

2011 NFL Draft,Free Safety,Deunta Williams, North Carolina

Four-year starter. He has started every game in his career, 38 and counting. In 2007 he was moved from wide receiver to safety. He has 12 interceptions over the past three years. A good athlete with foot quickness and hip flexibility. Good change of direction. Demonstrates burst quickness in run support and overlap coverage. Has recover ability and closing quickness. Can play man to man or zone coverage. Sticks his foot in the ground and drives on the run or ball. Makes plays on his feet and off blockers. A contact player who has tackling courage. Will wrap up. Plays with confidence, poise, and toughness. Productive with 171 tackles in the past three years. Can judge and compete for the ball at the high point. Always in position to make a move on the ball. Gets a hand on the ball to knock it away. Plays the ball in the air. Has good range and takes good angles.

2011 Draft,Corner,Prince Amukamara,Nebraska

Two-year starter. Came to Nebraska as a wide receiver. Has experience in both zone and man to man coverage. Good foot quickness and change of direction. Loose hipped. Fluid in his movement and turns. Good short area quickness. Aggressive and confident in press coverage. No hesitation on run support. Drives quickly on the ball carrier in front of him. Get them down type tackler. He does it all, wrap, cut, and drag down. Doesn’t shy away from contact. Good instincts. Can make up ground before the ball gets to the receiver. Very little wasted motion in his turns. Doesn’t lunge or overextend in press coverage. Gets to top speed quickly. Receivers rarely get separation on him. He runs their route and is always in position to make a play on the ball. Good range. Always around the ball. Catches the ball in his hands at the high point. Slaps away catchable balls. Competitive.

2011 NFL Draft,Outside Linebacker, Von Miller,Texas A & M

Three-year starter who is a productive 3-4 outside pass rusher. May be a Will flow type linebacker that plays stacked behind a defensive end, but has a knack and desire to rush the passer. Moved around in the Aggie defense to take advantage of match-ups and alignments to blitz and pressure the quarterback. Has blitzed and pressured the quarterback from an inside stand up position as well as playing up or down in a 3-point stance off the edge. Good balance and body control. Good lateral quickness and reactions. Accelerates to the ball. Good burst after initial contact. Can force a hurry or cause havoc in the backfield. Quick penetrator on the goal line. Outstanding first step quickness and timing to fly up the field. No run responsibility on pass downs. Because of his size he will get tied up on big offensive tackles at times and get bounced around. The defense will go to a more Pittsburgh Steeler type scheme in 2010, featuring a variety of zone blitzes, pressures, and aggressive play. Miller will line up in the Aggie “Jack” position as a roving linebacker and will also drop back in coverage. He led the country in 2009 with 17 sacks and had 5 ½ tackles for loss among his 48 hits.

2011 NFL Draft,Linebacker,Bruce Carter,North Carolina

Four-year starter who is athletic and can run sideline to sideline. When he sees the ball he reacts, then closes quickly. Average instincts. As natural an athlete at linebacker as there is in the 2011 draft. Fluid with good hip flexibility. A knee bender with quick hands and feet. Pass rush quickness with the ability to redirect. A three down linebacker who makes plays. Doesn’t stay blocked. Good use of hands to ward off blocks. Plays on his feet. Agile getting through traffic in pursuit. Has range, speed, lateral quickness, and a burst to finish off plays on the perimeter of the defense. A grab and drag down type tackler. Inconsistent wrap up with his arms. Appears to be holding back instead of turning it loose on the field. As a zone pass defender he can recognize, react, and drop. Good turn ability with quick feet and speed. In man to man coverage he has catch speed, can recover, and can run with tight ends and backs and many slot receivers. Was third on his team in tackles with 65. He had two sacks and 5 ½ tackles for loss and one interception returned for a touchdown. In 2008 he led the country in blocked kicks with five.

2011 NFL Draft, Linebacker, Mark Herzlich,Boston College,

Will be a three year starter. Prior to the 2009 season, Ourlads rated Herzlich a first round talent and was the defending ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He has made 247 career tackles. During the spring of 2009 he was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, which he overcame. Productive over his career. In 2008 he had 110 tackles, 6 interceptions, 8 passes broken up, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 13 tackles for loss. Our notes based on his 2008 tape read: solid measurables, good athletic ability with pass rush quickness and balance. Good football intelligence. Not soft at the point of attack. Burning desire to win. Makes big plays. Gets off blockers with quick strong hands. Eager and intense. Wrap tackler who will knock the ball carrier backwards. Has the chase speed to catch from behind. Gets clean separation. Can string out blocker laterally. Good speed and range. Hustles all out on every play. Aggressive and hits with authority. Received several honors in 2009 for his courage and outreach in his battle with cancer, including the Disney Spirit Award and the ACC Commissioner’s Cup.

2011 Draft, Linebacker, Quan Sturdivant,North Carolina

Four-year starter who has experience at both inside and outside linebacker. Productive sideline to sideline player with good instincts. Sees, registers, and reacts. Fills the inside run quickly and aggressively. Can take on blockers but doesn’t stay blocked. Has the innate quickness to slip blocks. Comes hard downhill. Doesn’t back off. An athlete who is fluid and flexible. Quick hands and feet. Has a closing burst to the ball carrier. Can redirect quickly with good balance. Football smart. Bends his knees and explodes from the ground up. Competitive. Wants to be the first to tackle the ball carrier. Three down linebacker. Has the awareness to go for the strip. The leading tackler on a defense that has several first round possibilities. Along with his 79 tackles, he had 11 tackles for loss and 3 passes broken up. A break down wrap up type tackler who doesn’t give ground. Has experience and played well in zone and man to man coverage.

2011 Draft, Linebacker,Greg Jones, Michigan State

Four-year starter who has been a tackling machine over his career. Ranked first in the Big-10 and third in the country with 154 tackles, averaging 11.8 per game in 2009. Played in a 4-3 scheme as a junior and will play inside as a 3-4 linebacker as a senior. Plays at seven yards depth and gets downhill in a hurry. Outstanding natural ability to find the ball and make plays. Good anticipation. A playmaker in both the run and passing game. Quick to read his keys. Always around the ball. Plays square and takes the openings when there. Fluid in his pass drops. Gets to the hook area and sets down and squares up. Can turn and run. Gets depth. Reads the quarterback and reacts very well. Quick take off when he blitzes. Good use of hands, speed, quickness, and strength. Can adjust on the move, good change of direction, and timing. Messes up the offensive timing when he blitzes. Competitive with good physical and mental toughness. Takes good pursuit angles downfield. Has a burst to finish the play. Gets the ball carrier down. A physical tackler who can make an open field play. Was the Big-10 2009 Defensive Player of the Year.

2011 Draft, Nose Tackle, Jerrell Powe, Mississippi

Two-year starter but played in every game as a sophomore. Thick upper and lower body build. Built for power with good first step quickness for a big man. Depending on a ball club’s scheme, he may be drafted as a defensive tackle. Strong in his arms and shoulders. Physically tough enough to stack a double team. When he plays nose tackle he has very good agility and the ability to change direction. Has quick feet, explosiveness, and quick reactions. As a penetrator, he can get off on the snap and push the play deep. Is comfortable playing the cocked nose position. Has been durable at a very physically demanding position. He is accustomed to close quarter battling. Presses the pocket with a power rush, but has other tricks in his bag. Plays in a rotation where he is always fresh, but is productive and active when he’s in the game. Recorded 34 tackles, including 8 tackles for loss and 3 sacks.

2011 Draft, Defensive tackle, Stephen Paea, Oregon State

Two-year starter. Junior college transfer. Consistently draws double teams and frees up other linemen across the front. Tough to single block with his strength and leverage. Plays low with a flat back. Thick and quick. Extremely strong arms and legs. A quick penetrator style like John Randle or Warren Sapp. Explosive push up the field on pass downs. A disruptive player who is quick enough to beat the snap. Must be accounted for and game plan specific. Gains an advantage with his first step quickness. Explodes and uncoils his hips with force. Stout inline play strength to stop the run. Plays on his feet. Strong enough to lock out and separate from blocker. An end to end player who can control blockers and pursue down the line. Can grab grass and split a double team. Fights through blockers to make a play. Made 43 tackles including 5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss. Productive in OSU’s scheme. Grew up in Tonga where he played rugby. Was the 2009 Morris Trophy winner, given annually to the PAC 10’s top defensive lineman as voted on by the league’s offensive linemen.

Defensive Playmakers Strengthen 2011 Draft

Scouts covering the Big Ten and the University of North Carolina in the fall may be money ahead by pooling their cash for co-op apartments. Defensive ends Adrian Clayborn (Iowa), Cameron Heyward (Ohio State), and Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue) are all productive pass rushers. Inside linebacker Greg Jones (Michigan State) makes more splash plays than Flipper the non-Miami Dolphin. The Tar Heel defense is loaded with talent from the front, second level, and back end. The most inconsistent member of the group is Marvin Austin and his eligibility to play in 2010 is in question with the NCAA regarding alleged violations involving extra benefits from agents. Stay tuned.

This past July, Chicago and Dallas forfeited their 2011 seventh round picks with their selections in the supplemental draft. The Bears drafted BYU’s all-time leading rusher Harvey Unga, a physical runner with good hands. He was placed on injured reserve after a training camp hamstring injury. The Cowboys selected Illinois defensive tackle John Price-Brent and plan on playing him at nose tackle.

The collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFLPA expires in March of 2011. There will be a draft in 2011. As always we have listed only eligible seniors.

1. Clayborn, Adrian Iowa 6030 290

Three-year starter who is explosive, disciplined, and relentless in his play. He is as good as any defensive lineman in the past several years to disengage a blocker and make a play. In short, he doesn’t stay blocked. Excellent use of hands to separate, strength to pull and jerk. Stays on his feet. Has slippery quality. Plays with power and activity in his legs. A ready built four-man front right defensive end. Strong against double teams. Plays with leverage. Sudden to read and react after controlling blocker. Gave second round draft choice, Rodger Saffold, fits in 2009. Can feel pressure and react on the move. Explosive when delivering a blow. Good balance and body control. His arm length is average but his hand quickness, punch, placement, and extension are unique. Closes inside with authority. Has the lateral speed and quickness to string out and pursue to the sideline. Contained Terrelle Pryor in Ohio State game. Good awareness and instincts to play a variety of blocking schemes and combination blocks. Productive versus pass or run. Doesn’t lose ground when he tackles a ball carrier. Hard hitter. Athletic through traffic. Urgent and intense. Has good take off quickness on his pass rush. Tenacious. Accelerates off blocks. Burst to close on quarterback. Good stamina and discipline. Works his feet and hands together. Turns speed to power. Was born with a mild case of Erbs’ palsy and had some nerve damage in his neck and right side. Did not need surgery. Productive in 2009 with 70 tackles, 11 ½ sacks, 2 passes broken up, and 8.5 tackles for loss.


2. Heyward, Cameron Ohio State 6050 285

Four-year starter who is versatile enough to play anywhere along the front of a 4-3 or a 3-4 defense. Plays head up or shades any of the front five offensive linemen. Moved around to take advantage of match-up weaknesses. Someone at Penn State riled him up and he proceeded to beat their front like a rented mule. He racked up 11 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. Plays in a front rotation and finished the year with 46 tackles, 6 ½ sacks, and 3 ½ tackles for loss. He has the talent to dominate his competition but will disappear at times. Grading his flashes he is powerful and explosive off the ball. Has a quick first step. Can explode and unlock his hips with force. Plays with a good power base and lower body strength. Can bend his knees and play with leverage but will get too high at times. If he plays that high on Sunday, he will get rolled out of the hole. Has the innate strength to run over a blocker on his bull rush. His game is power and strength. Can collapse the pocket with vertical push and effort. Will finish pursuit. His late father was the bone crushing NFL fullback, Ironhead Heyward.

3. Kerrigan, Ryan Purdue 6040 265

Three-year starter who is very technique conscious and productive. Led the Big-10 and was third nationally with 13 sacks. He also had 18 ½ tackles for loss. He led the nation with seven forced fumbles, second most in Big-10 history. In the past two years he has had 20 sacks and 30 tackles for loss. Plays right defensive end in a four-man front. Rarely gets single blocked. Can‘t be blocked with a tight end. Plays low and with good leverage. Can walk an offensive tackle back to the quarterback at times. Instinctive. Quick to read and react to pressure then gets to the ball. Right place at the right time player. Can run the hoop as a pass rusher, bending his course to the depth of the quarterback. Generally doesn’t get run out of the play. Good use of arms, hands, and leverage at the point of attack. Sudden first step. Plays on his feet. Uses a variety of pass rush moves including rip, spin, and slap and grab. Disruptive even if he doesn’t get the sack. Gets his hands up on the rush or tries to slap the ball out of the quarterback or ball carrier’s hand. Doesn’t give up on a play. Works from snap to whistle. Gets through traffic with urgency and intensity. Strong game in win over Ohio State where he demonstrated all his tools.

4. Romeus, Greg Pittsburgh 6051 270

Three-year starter who played in all games as a redshirt freshman in 2007. Big East co-Defensive Player of theYear. Productive over the past two years, collecting 94 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 15 ½ sacks. Has long arms (34 5/8”) and huge hands (11”). Possesses an enormous amount of physical ability. Tough and aggressive. Durable. Plays hurt. Innate ability to come off the edge. Gives effort in his pass rush and pursuit. Good change of direction. First step and lateral quickness. Upfield quickness and strength to push. Disrupts an offense if not accounted for in the game plan. He has one big Achilles’ heel that actually ties into two position skills. He needs to develop more pass rush moves and develop the use of his big hands. Romeus has a tendency to let the blockers into his chest which in turn slows down his ability to get off the block quickly. Currently he must escape on the first move or he gets locked up. He opens up his body because of inconsistent hand usage and consequently is vulnerable to blocks. Will hand fight and wrestle with the blocker. He has the tools – long arms and big hands – to slap or grab and swim, rip or uppercut, speed, power or spin. Will make himself a lot of money if he can develop his weapons.

2010 Laddie Awards

OURLADS’ Annual LADDIE AWARDS

The LADDIES have become a regular part of our Draft coverage. We enjoy them. It’s fun. Based on our discussion with subscribers, most enjoy them as well. Some years you will find them in the GUIDE and some years in the final NEWSLETTER. It all depends on space availability and thoughtful deliberations. These awards are the subjective result of a poll among ‘our lads’ and are for your enjoyment. And the 2010Awards go to:

Quarterbacks
Cream of the Crop: Sam Bradford (Oklahoma)
Jimmy Clausen (Notre Dame)
Arm Strength: Levi Brown (Troy)
Tim Tebow (Florida)
Accuracy: Sam Bradford (Oklahoma)
Colt McCoy (Texas)
Touch: Sam Bradford (Oklahoma)
Mobility: Armanti Edwards (Appalachian State)
Underappreciated: Max Hall (BYU)
Armanti Edwards (Appalachian State)
Combine King: Tim Tebow (Florida)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Dan LeFevour (Central Michigan)
Mike Kafka (Northwestern)
Free Agent Find: Mike Kafka (Northwestern)

Running Backs
Cream of the Crop: CJ Spiller (Clemson)
Fastest: CJ Spiller (Clemson)
Hands: CJ Spiller (Clemson)
Jahvid Best (California)
Blocker: John Conner (Kentucky)
Moves: CJ Spiller (Clemson)
Power: Toby Gerhart (Stanford)
Charles Scott (LSU)
Montario Hardesty (Tennessee)
Toughest: Toby Gerhart (Stanford)
Anthony Dixon (Mississippi State)
LeGarrette Blount (Oregon)
Underappreciated: Ben Tate (Auburn)
Return Man: CJ Spiller (Clemson)
Combine King: Ben Tate (Auburn)
Best All-Star Performance: LeGarrette Blount (Oregon)
Free Agent Find: Joique Bell (Wayne State, MI)

Wide Receivers
Cream of the Crop: Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State)
Hands: Jordan Shipley (Texas)
Eric Decker (Minnesota)
Fastest: Jacoby Ford (Clemson)
Routes: Jordan Shipley (Texas)
Eric Decker (Minnesota)
Blocker: Arrelious Benn (Illinois)
Demaryius Thomas (Georgia Tech)
Run After Catch: Golden Tate (Notre Dame)
Arrelious Benn (Illinois)
Demaryius Thomas (Georgia Tech)
Return Man: Mardy Gilyard (Cincinnati)
Leaper: Scott Long (Louisville)
Underappreciated: Freddie Barnes (Bowling Green)
Combine King: Scott Long (Louisville)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Mardy Gilyard (Cincinnati)
Free Agent Find: Glen Fox (South Dakota State)

Tight Ends
Cream of the Crop: Jermaine Gresham (Colorado)
Rob Gronkowski (Arizona)
Hands: Dennis Pitta (BYU)
Blocker: Rob Gronkowski (Arizona)
Brody Eldridge (Oklahoma)
Fastest: Dorin Dickerson (Pittsburgh)
Strongest: Clay Harbor (Missouri State)
Underappreciated: Tony Moeaki (Iowa)
Combine King: Dennis Pitta (BYU)
Jimmy Graham (Miami)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Andrew Quarless (Penn State)
Free Agent Find: Dennis Morris (Louisiana Tech)

Offensive Line
Cream of the Crop: Russell Okung (Oklahoma State)
Feet: Trent Williams (Oklahoma)
Pass Blocker: Russell Okung (Oklahoma State)
Run Blocker: Bryan Bulaga (Iowa)
Strongest: Mitch Petrus (Arkansas)
Toughest: Mike Iupati (Idaho)
Underappreciated: Rodger Saffold (Indiana)
Combine King: Bruce Campbell (Maryland)
Jared Veldheer (Hillsdale)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Mike Iupati (Idaho)
Free Agent Find: Sean Allen (East Carolina)

Defensive Line
Cream of the Crop: Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
Run Stopper: Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
Pass Rusher: Brandon Graham (Michigan)
Jerry Hughes (Texas Christian)
Fastest: Dexter Davis (Arizona State)
Strongest: Jeff Owens (Georgia)
Toughest: Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)
Underappreciated: Linval Joseph (East Carolina)
Combine King: Dan Te’o’Nesheim (Washington)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Brandon Graham (Michigan)
Free Agent Find: Kade Weston (Georgia)

Linebackers
Cream of the Crop: Versatile – Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri)
Inside – Rolando McClain (Alabama)
Outside – Sergio Kindle (Texas)
Run Defender: Brandon Spikes (Florida)
Pass Coverage: Daryl Washington (Texas Christian)
Pass Rusher: Sergio Kindle (Texas)
Fastest: Jamar Chaney (Mississippi State)
Strongest: Donald Butler (Washington)
Toughest: Brandon Spikes (Florida)
Underappreciated: Stevenson Sylvester (Utah)
Combine King: Dekoda Watson (Florida State)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri)
Jamar Chaney (Mississippi State)
Free Agent Find: Josh Hull (Penn State)
Cody Grimm (Virginia Tech)

Defensive Backs
Cream of the Crop: Eric Berry (Tennessee)
Coverage: Joe Haden (Florida)
Toughest: Jerome Murphy (South Florida)
Fastest: Taylor Mays (Southern Cal)
Playmaker: Eric Berry (Tennessee)
Earl Thomas (Texas)
Return Man: Javier Arenas (Alabama)
Leaper: AJ Jefferson (Fresno State)
Underappreciated: Walter McFadden (Auburn)
Combine King: AJ Jefferson (Fresno State)
Taylor Mays (Southern Cal)
Best All-Star Bowl Performance: Kyle Wilson (Boise State)
Free Agent Find: Sam Shields (Miami)

Place Kickers
Cream of the Crop: Leigh Tiffin (Alabama)
Free Agent Find: Hunter Lawrence (Texas)

Punters
Cream of the Crop: Zoltan Mesko (Michigan)
Free Agent Find: Mike Brandtner (Iowa State)

Special Teams
Best Long Snapper: Clint Gresham (Texas Christian)

2010 NFL Draft,Tyson Alualu,Jacksonville Jaguars,Ourlads.com

Jacksonville drafted a dynamic inside force to their front four but apparently couldn't drop down lower to select Tyson Alualu. A three-year starter. Power player with a thick lower body. A top effort, every down disruptive player that will punch and spin. Plays with explosiveness and leverage. Naturally strong. Shorter than ideal to play a 5-technique end in a 3-4 scheme. May be a one gap under tackle in a four man front. Good body control. Stays on his feet. Keeps his balance. Uses a quick arm over move. Reads the play quickly. Good instincts. Disruptive. Forces hurries and pressures the quarterback. Good use of hands and feet. Physical tackler. Finishes the play. Performance not potential. Has 156 career tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles. Had a 35.5 vertical jump. Edge speed:left 2.02, right 2.16. OSR:26/35 for defensive ends.(A-33, H-10, BP-21, 10-1.70).

2010 NFL Draft, Demaryius Thomas,Denver Broncos,Ourlads.com

Demaryius Thomas has the size and athletic ability to make the Denver faithful forget about Brandon Marshall but now he must put the pelts on the wall.Junior entry. Three-year starter. Big receiver in a run first spread triple option offense. Big play receiver that had seven of his catches go for at least 50 yards in 2009. Will reach and extend for the ball outside his frame. Average quickness off the line of scrimmage to beat bump coverage and burst upfield to separate. Saw a lot of single coverage because of the offensive scheme running the ball. Has the size and strength to run the inside slant and dig routes. Has run after catch ability to break a tackle or make a defender miss a tackle. Good football intelligence to learn to line up in different alignments. Will need work on reading coverages and adjusting his routes according to the play. Long strider that picks up speed as he goes down the field. Has big soft hands but will drop the easy catch when not focused. Perfunctory blocking effort. Average quickness into and out of his breaks. Inconsistent to drop weight. May miss all spring workouts because of fractured left foot. Averaged 25.1 yards per catch on 46 receptions and had 8 touchdowns in 2009.(A-33, H-10 1/2, VJ-DNP, SS-DNP).

2010 NFL Draft, Jahvid Best,Detroit Lions,Ourlads.com

Jahvid Best may be the top running back in the 2010 Draft. Junior entry. Two-year starter. An explosive and talented back with quick reactions. Smooth North/South runner that finishes his runs. Plays fast. Sudden into the hole and demonstrates unique running skills and instincts. Has a natural feel for running the ball. Good vision. Has the ability to create positive yardage on poorly blocked plays. Patient to the hole and lets the block set up. Gives the defender a leg then takes it away. Can plant and cut without the loss of speed. Can dip in and burst outside. Has a thick lower body and good contact balance. Good hit and spin move. Rare cut back ability and speed. Runs the zone read out of the I-formation. Also runs plays out of the spread formation. A difference maker that gets to the second level with instant acceleration. Good agility in traffic. Always going forward. Slippery. Not easy to tackle. Good hands to catch all pass routes. Good eye/hand coordination. Durability is a question mark because of an annual pattern of missing some games with injury. Led the country in rushing with 1580 yards in 2008. Career stats are 364 rushes for 2668 yards, 7.3 yards per carry, and 29 touchdowns. He also caught 62 passes for 533 yards and 6 touchdowns. OSR:3/28. (A-31 3/4, H-9, BP-18, SS-4.16).

2010 NFL Draft, Tim Tebow, Denver Broncos,Ourlads.com

Tim Tebow is a three-year starter that may be the most decorated football player in college football history. Left handed passer. Plays in an option oriented offense where the quarterback’s feet and legs are key to the offense; the edge type spread-the-field scheme that features option, running the corner, and ball control passing. Big, strong, smart, and athletic with rare intangibles. Rotated his freshman year with Chris Leak. Has directed the Gators to two national championships in three years. Only player in NCAA history to rush and pass for at least 20 touchdowns in a season. Physically and mentally tough. A take charge guy that leads his teammates. Consistent and reliable. Performs under pressure. Plays with confidence. Durable. Can shake off arm tackles and take a hit. Disciplined with the football. Loves to play quarterback. Has a feel for the game. Can make a flat-footed throw with a man in his face. Has the ability to make defenders miss and still see the field. Can make a good situation out of a bad one. Played with a new group of receivers in 2009. A competitor with will, passion, and fire to get the job done. Can read coverages but will work to master the NFL complexities. Throws strikes when he has a clean pocket as a drop back passer, but has the ability to throw on the run. Accurate short and medium. Has a variety of deliveries. Will need to work on all the nuances of NFL quarterback play. Innate ability to respond to change. Elevates the performance of everyone around him. Can shuck pass rushers that try to tackle him high. Not easy to tackle. Good running instincts. Can hit the deep square in and skinny post in the seam. Good poise and patience. Throws a wobbly but catchable ball. Has pocket presence to step up as the rush goes around him. Has touch on swing passes. Part of being a successful NFL quarterback is the ability to throw from a variety of deliveries. Tebow can do that. He does drop the ball down below his waist, then brings the ball up to release the pass. The wasted motion hinders a quick strike through a narrow window of opportunity. Career stats include a 66.4% completion rate, completing 661 of 995 attempts for 9285 yards, 88 touchdowns, and just 16 interceptions, rushing 692 times for 2947 yards and 57 touchdowns. OSR: 1/16. (A-31 3/4, H-10 1/8, SS-4.18, VJ-38.5).