LeGarrette Blount, Oregon Running Back

LeGarrette Blount was suspended from the Oregon Ducks football program for the season after connecting with a punch to Boise State's defensive end Byron Hout jaw after the Duck's loss in the season opener to Boise State. Blount was Ourlad's second rated senior running back heading into the fall after Clemson's C.J. Spiller. Blount will continue to practice with the Ducks and work toward graduation. What we said about Blount heading into the fall:


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 that was suspended in February 2009 for missing conditioning workouts and academic class work. A high maintenance back with talent.

Oklahoma's Jermaine Gresham will enter 2010 Draft

Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma's All-America tight end will enter the 2010 NFL Draft despite suffering a knee injury during fall camp requiring surgery on his cartilage that ended his 2009 season. Gresham was Ourlad's top tight end heading into the fall.What we said:

Productive two-and-a-half year starter that caught 66 passes for 950 yards and 14 touchdowns. Plays his best in big games with 8 catches for 82 yards in the Big 12 championship game along with 8 catches and two touchdowns in the BCS title game against Florida. A hand catcher that can catch the ball in traffic and in close quarters. Good upfield acceleration after catch. Can make the first tackler miss at times or run through them. Lines up in the slot, out wide, and in the traditional tight end area. Can make the tough over shoulder catch. Can separate in man to man coverage. Competitive player with explosiveness. Blocks with good balance. A knee bender that stays on blocks. Plays better against the best opponents. A match up nightmare for most safeties and nickel corners.

Tim Tebow, Florida 2010 NFL Draft

Florida's Heisman winning quarterback Tim Tebow produced a game performance against the Kentucky Wildcats overcoming a week of flu before a corner blitz knocked him out of the game in the third quarter. He sustained a concussion from the explosive hit.Reports out of Gainesville have Tebow recovering from the concussion and the flu during the Gators bye week. Tebow is our top rated senior quarterback heading into the fall. This is what we said about him after summer film study:

Three-year starter that may be the most decorated football player in college football history. Left handed passer. 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. Has thrown 67 touchdown passes and only 11 interceptions in the past 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. 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. He has mastered the spread multiple offense that is run first. With the same work ethic, he has a chance and skill level to master NFL quarterback play.

Jeremy Jarmon Supplemental Pick

Kentucky's junior defensive end Jeremy Jarmon was the only selection in the mid-July supplemental draft. He was taken in the third round by Washington. The Redskins now forfeit their 2010 third round pick. Jarmon declared for the draft after he was ruled ineligible for his senior year because of a failed drug test. He had a positive test for a banned diuretic dietary supplement he purchased at a health food store. Jarmon has graduated with a degree in political science. Prior to his suspension, he decided to return for his senior year after a mediocre grade report from the NFL evaluation committee. The athletic defensive end is a good fit for the 'Skins' 4-3 scheme as he played left end for the Wildcats and at times was reduced inside to play defensive tackle. Productive over his career, he had 17 1/2 sacks in three years. He was red-shirted his freshman year for development and started 31 of 38 career games. Jarmon has been timed under 4.80 seconds in forty yards and shows first step quickness with 1.64 seconds in the 10.

THE WAY WE SEE HIM: Has all the athletic numbers and production to succeed on the next level. Thick build and butt to stack double teams. Needs more upper body strength to lock out and separate from long-armed offensive tackles. Question his instincts. Loses ball on occasion. Can bend his knees and get push and play with leverage. Needs to be under control when stunting and twisting. Flashes production, but will run by ball carrier. Does an excellent job of getting his hands up when rushing the passer. Has batted down several passes over his career. In 2008 he was second on the team in pass deflections. Can improve his hand strength and his use of hands to disengage blocker. Flashes the tools to play on Sundays, but needs to be more consistent as a tackler, backside pursuit effort, and first step quickness. Solid third round pick.

2009 NFC South Draft Review

Atlanta Falcons




The Falcon defense was the focal point of the draft with seven of
the eight picks selected to add a few starters and upgrade the
depth in the secondary. General Manager Tom Dimitroff and Head
Coach Mike Smith accomplished many things and overcame
adversity like many teams have never seen. Now the pair can do
what no GM and coach combination have done in Atlanta history
– produce back-to-back winning seasons and earn a place in the
playoffs two years in a row. Tony Gonzalez will be a major player
in accomplishing those goals. Linebackers Mike Peterson and
Spencer Adkins fit into the 4-3 scheme. Three defensive backs
headed by William Moore were another priority that was filled in
the second, third, and fifth rounds. The Falcons’ top choice,
Peria Jerry, is disruptive in his play and was a major need to
upgrade the defensive front as was lesser known Vance Walker.
Peria Jerry is a one gap explosive player that is intense and
plays with good leverage. He upgrades Grady Jackson who is
now in Detroit. He controls the line of scrimmage with good hand
use and lateral quickness. William Moore was drafted to replace
Lawyer Milloy who was not re-signed. He has all the skills and
range to be successful on Sunday. Moore is big, fast, and athletic
and can play the run in the box or play deep coverage. Chris
Owens will compete for the right cornerback position. A physical
player, he has good athletic ability. Despite his size he is a good
tackler in run support. He may start out as a nickel corner and
make his mark on special teams’ coverage. Lawrence Sidbury
has a chance to get on the field early in his career because of the
underachieving pass rush ability of Jamaal Anderson. He has
excellent first step quickness and some interesting tools, but is
raw in his overall game. Corner William Middleton is a sleeper
selection that was not invited to the Combine, but showed up
strong in pre-draft workouts. He is athletic with good straight
line speed (4.46/40). He’s a developmental prospect with kickoff
return ability. Garrett Reynolds is an angular developmental
tackle that is long and loses functional playing strength when he
plays high. He needs to add bulk and strength to have a future in
the league. Spencer Adkins is a developmental workout warrior
that started five games at Miami. He has questionable instincts
and struggles to shed blockers. He is likely a practice squad
candidate. Vance Walker adds depth to the defensive line. A
sleeper pick, he has good upper and lower body strength. He
should work into the front rotation with his functional strength
and the ability to fight double teams. GRADE: AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: The biggest off-season acquisition for the
Falcons was the trade of a 2010 second round pick for All-Pro
tight end Tony Gonzalez. Mike Peterson played for Mike Smith at
Jacksonville and will start at strongside linebacker. Brett Romberg
will back up Todd McClure at center.





Carolina Panthers




The Carolina Panthers are talented and have the fire power to
make another Super Bowl run. However, they are in a very
competitive division with New Orleans and Atlanta. Tampa Bay
appears to be in a rebuilding mode. Long time Indianapolis
defensive coordinator, Ron Meeks, will tweak the defense. The
running game will remain strong with Jordan Gross up front and
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart hammering the ball
between the tackles. Steve Smith remains as a premier feature
receiver and Jake Delhomme’s first passing option. The Panthers
addressed its two top draft priorities in the defensive line by
drafting pass rusher Everette Brown and tabbing defensive tackle
Corvey Irvin. Secondary help was also added with utility corner/
safety Sherrod Martin. Everette Brown was drafted in the second
round, but Carolina gave up a 2010 first round pick to select him.
He slipped to the second round because of his fringe height, not
because of his ability. Some ball clubs were unsure if he was an
outside 3-4 linebacker or a four-man front end. It was undeniable
that he was blessed with excellent initial quickness and an
outstanding first step. The Panthers knew that his athletic ability,
productivity, and burst were too good to ignore, especially with
an uncertain Peppers’ situation. Sherrod Martin is a versatile
and athletic defensive back that can play press corner or safety.
He’s active and physical in run support and on special teams.
Corvey Irvin adds depth to the defensive line. He is strong enough
to get inside pressure. A knee bender that can push the pocket,
Irvin is a physical player with long arms. Mike Goodson is a
complementary back that can change up from the power running
of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. He is elusive with
good hands and flashes a burst to turn the corner. If he stays
healthy and competitive, his natural speed and talent will get him
on the field. Fullback Tony Fiammetta will be battling veteran
Brad Hoover for playing time. He is very similar to Hoover as a
hard-nosed lead blocker that has reliable and consistent hands
to catch the ball as needed. He will contribute on special teams.
Duke Robinson was a steal in the fifth round if he works and
plays to his ability. He is a good fit for the power running attack
with his long arms and big hands to engulf and maul a defender.
He has the talent to start as a rookie if he stays focused and will
compete. Captain Munnerlyn is a fringe athlete that has some
hip stiffness in his turns. A tough and aggressive corner, he will
add depth and contribute on special teams as a returner and
coverage player. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: The Panthers put the franchise tag on Julius
Peppers, but Peppers has not signed the tender at press time.
Jordan Gross did get his deal done with $54 million over six years.
He is Carolina’s best offensive lineman and the leader up front.
The losses were depth on both sides of the ball that were filled
with draft choices.



New Orleans Saints




The New Orleans Saints filled two holes in the secondary with
draft selections Malcolm Jenkins and Chip Vaughn. Fourth round
pick, Stanley Arnoux’s pro career was put on hold after an injury
in rookie mini camp. Sean Payton set the bar unrealistically high
for the Saints’ faithful by making a run to the NFL Championship
in his rookie season as a head coach in 2006. The natives are
restless after two consecutive disappointing seasons and ache
to be a part of the Super Bowl experience. Payton’s offense is led
by Drew Brees, one of the leagues’ most competitive and
productive players. The running attack needs to be elevated to
more than an after thought. The defense has taken a big hit the
past two years and now aggressive minded Gregg Williams gets
his chance to stop the bleeding and help New Orleans win the
NFC South Division. Malcolm Jenkins was the best combination
corner/safety in the draft and he played right into the Saints’
wheelhouse. The big athletic corner will get a shot to start at
corner, mainly to match up with the big wide receivers in the
division. Tracy Porter played well before he was injured and lost
for the season. Jabari Greer played solid for Buffalo and will
compete with Jenkins. Chip Vaughn is another rookie defensive
back that will have the opportunity to compete for a starting
position at safety. He is big, athletic, can run, and is physical in
the run game. A tough and aggressive impact hitter, he is
disciplined in his play which will endear him to Williams, the
Saints’ defensive coordinator. Stanley Arnoux ran into some hard
luck in his first rookie mini camp practice by rupturing his left
Achilles tendon. He is expected to miss the 2009 season. Arnoux
had the athletic skills to play in the middle or on the weak side in
the Saints’ 4-3 scheme. A three down linebacker, he is instinctive
and aware in both the running game and in coverage. A playmaker,
he has quick feet and good lateral quickness. Thomas Morstead
will compete with Glenn Pakulak for the Saints’ punting job. He
has good leg strength, averaging over 44 yards as a junior. He
will also contribute as the backup place-kicker. Morstead was
coached at SMU by former NFL special teams’ coach Frank Gansz.
GRADE: AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: Middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma signed a fiveyear
$34-million dollar deal with seventeen million guaranteed.
Vilma is a smart three down linebacker that is key to Williams’s
defensive scheme. Darren Sharper was signed to give a veteran
presence and groom young ascending safeties. Heath Evans will
start at fullback. The remainder of free agency signings were
veterans to add depth; Dan Campbell (TE), Rod Coleman (DT),
Darnell Dinkins (TE), Jabari Greer (DC), Nick Leckey (OC), Paul
Spicer (DE), and Anthony Waters (OB).



Tampa Bay Buccaneers




Tampa Bay is in a head coaching, offensive and defensive scheme
transition. There will be some growing pains for Raheem Morris,
the Bucs’ new head coach. Compounding the numerous
organization changes, Tampa Bay plays in the tough NFC South
where the teams always compete like dogs in a meat house. There
was not much money spent in free agency, but Derrick Ward is a
solid NFL running back. Josh Freeman, the first pick for the new
regime, maybe the face of the franchise if he lives up to his midfirst
round selection. He was a reach as the 17th pick in the draft
mainly because of his decision making and his accuracy combined
with anticipation. Fundamentally, his footwork needs more balance
with crossover and rhythm steps. Also his playing instincts are
questionable. He has undeniable tools to play on Sunday, but is
years away in a complex offense. Roy Miller is a high effort, blue
collar athlete that works to finish plays. He will have a chance to
work into a front rotation with aging Ryan Sims and Chris Hovan.
Miller is intense and competitive. A good technique player, he is
always around the ball. Kyle Moore can play end, but is light in
the britches to play and anchor at defensive tackle. He has an
angular build with long arms and big hands and needs more
upper and lower body strength. A developmental project, he has
decent measurables. Xavier Fulton is the sleeper of the Bucs’
draft if he can overcome past shoulder problems. He possesses
outstanding athletic ability with long arms and big hands. He
has experience at both right and left tackle. He has left tackle foot
quickness. Fulton shows good use of hands to punch and control
defenders. He should eventually be the swing tackle. E.J. Biggers
is a speedy corner that runs in the 4.40 forty range. Competitive
and focused, he has good leaping ability when matched up
against big receivers. He has good upper body strength, putting
225 pounds up nineteen times. He will compete for a nickel corner
position and special teams coverage spot. Sammie Stroughter
is an undersized receiver with fringe speed. Quicker than fast, he
has been productive over his career. He has average athletic
ability, but plays better than he tests. Durability will always be a
question mark as he was injured most of his career. GRADE:
BELOW AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: The Bucs were not major players in the veteran
signing wars, but they feel Derrick Ward will team with Earnest
Graham and often injured Carnell Williams to help establish a ball
control running game. Ward signed a four year contract worth
$17 million dollars. Six million is guaranteed. Antonio Bryant
established himself as a number one receiver and received the
franchise tag for one year at $9.884 million dollars. Linebacker
Angelo Crowell, quarterback Byron Leftwich, and kicker Mike
Nugent will all compete for starting jobs. Major losses were aging
veterans Derrick Brooks, Warrick Dunn, and Joey Galloway.

2009 AFC South Draft Review

Houston Texans




Houston is progressing nicely and added some needed personnel to
continue their quest to make the playoffs for the first time in team
history. Free agent Antonio Smith will strengthen a front line full of first
round draft choices. Brian Cushing, the Texans’ first round pick, is
talented and will contribute by stopping both the run and playing the
pass. The defense is the key to the playoff run as is the health of
quarterback Matt Schaub. Schaub’s durability will always be a question
because now the Texans don’t have underrated Sage Rosenfels to fall
back on. A major injury to Schaub could bring Houston crashing back to
the bottom of the AFC South. Brian Cushing was drafted to help
stabilize the linebacker position that has been racked with injuries for
the past several years. The sticky wicket is if he can stay healthy for a
whole season. If he does, he will team with DeMeco Ryans and give the
Texans a pair of impact linebackers. Connor Barwin is very versatile
and Houston sees him as a pass rushing defensive end that could get on
the field in pass downs with Mario Williams, Antonio Smith moving
down inside, and Barwin rushing off the left side. Antoine Caldwell is
a versatile center-guard combination that adds depth to an improving
offensive line. Durable and smart in his play, he has the ability to
recover in pass protection. He is athletic with a thick lower body.
Glover Quin is another two for one player that has experience at both
corner and safety. He has the strength and savvy to play press corner.
He is built like a safety with good overall body strength and will not shy
away from contact. He is a developmental player that averaged over 30
yards a kickoff return his senior year. Anthony Hill is a run blocking
tight end with better than average hands. He has experience at lining up
in the slot or wing position and sealing the end of the line of scrimmage.
He helps upgrade the edge running game. James Casey fits the theme
of the Texans’ draft of versatile athletes. The best thing he does is catch
the ball in his hands and should team with Owen Daniels in the red zone
to take pressure off Andre Johnson. Brice McCain is a speedy cover
corner that excels in man-to-man coverage. He is shorter than ideal, but
has good leaping ability. He will compete for the nickel/dime corner job
and special teams’ coverage. Troy Nolan will get a look at free safety
after a big play career at Arizona State. He scored five touchdowns in
two seasons. Four were on interceptions and one was a fumble recovery.
He is instinctive with good anticipation. His fringe athletic ability and
marginal speed for the position kept him from being drafted higher.
GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: Former Cardinal Antonio Smith was guaranteed $12.5
million dollars of a $35 million dollar contract over five years to play
opposite Mario Williams. Smith can constrict the running lanes and
rush the passer from an inside position. Shaun Cody will be in the
defensive line rotation and compete with Amobi Okoye for a starting
position. Cato June will back up at the Will linebacker spot. Dan
Orlovsky was signed as the backup quarterback.



Indianapolis Colts




The Colts have made several off-season dramatic changes in
their coaching staff. First and foremost, Head Coach Tony Dungy
retired. Dungy was the man that kept his head when everyone
around him was losing theirs. Classy and consistent were his
hallmarks. Offensive coordinator Tom Moore, offensive line
coach Howard Mudd, and defensive coordinator Ron Meeks
were three other major losses. In a quarterback driven league,
the Colts still have one of the best in Peyton Manning. For years,
great quarterbacks have covered up poor position play on both
sides of the ball, bad draft picks, and organizational shortcomings.
The league’s reigning MVP will carry the Colts to the playoffs
once again with his dedication and heady play. Donald Brown
will have every opportunity to work into the backfield rotation
with Joseph Addai. He combines a pick, slide, and glide running
style with bending and weaving when he breaks into the second
level. He’s a change of pace back with good hands to catch the
ball and get upfield. Fili Moala was the first of two three-hundred
pound run stuffers that the Colts drafted in 2009. To be effective
inside at tackle he must keep his knee bend to anchor and hold
his ground. His angular build is not ideal for an inside player.
Jerraud Powers fits the Colt profile at corner with his scrappy
press cover two play. He is a physical player that doesn’t shy
away from contact. He is willing to force and contain. He is a
competitor with quick feet and change of direction. Austin Collie,
just like all Colt receivers, has consistent hands to make the
catch. Additionally, he is a good route runner and will compete
for the ball in a crowd. He will have a major learning curve because
Indy requires the receivers to know all the receiving positions
before they get on the field. Terrance Taylor is perfect as an
inside leverage defensive tackle with his low center of gravity.
He comes off low and hits with an explosive force. Strong enough
to stack a double team, he will be very effective in a rotation.
Curtis Painter will compete with Jim Sorgi for the backup spot
behind Peyton Manning. He has always been productive and
accurate as a short and medium area passer. He is a rhythm and
timing passer that fits into the Colts’ scheme. Pat McAfee has
big shoes to fill when long-time punter Hunter Smith was not resigned.
McAfee averaged 44.7 yards on 62 punts and also has
experience on kickoffs and field goals. He consistently had hang
times in the 4.35 to 4.70 range. The Colts gained the pick in a
trade with Philadelphia. Jaimie Thomas is athletic for the guard
position and has a chance to make the team if he cleans up his
inconsistencies and breakdown of technique. He plays better in
a confined area than in space. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: As usual, the Colts sign their own free agents. This
year Matt Giordano, Tyjuan Hagler, Kelvin Hayden, Freddy Keiaho,
Jeff Saturday are all back in the fold. Adam Seward was signed to
compete for a linebacker position. In an unusual move, Ed Johnson
who was released after an off-field incident involving drugs in 2008
was re-signed. Johnson started 16 games his rookie year.



Jacksonville Jaguars




General Manager Gene Smith drafted a pair of the top offensive tackles
for the future and signed a veteran Pro Bowl tackle in free agency. That
should help insure David Garrard some needed protection that he didn’t
have in 2008. Pass catchers like free agent Torry Holt, a healthy Mike
Walker, and rookie Mike Thomas, along with an upgraded running game
will also help. Eugene Monroe fell to the Jaguars at number eight and
will compete with free agent pickup Tra Thomas for the left tackle
spot. The rangy, long-armed athlete is a pass protector first. He uses
his hands effectively in pass protection with good hand placement and
an explosive punch. He played upright in a two-point stance in both
the run and pass game in college but will need to learn to work from a
three-point stance. Eben Britton was a second round choice and will
compete with inconsistent Tony Pashos at right tackle. Another big
athletic offensive tackle, he will team with Monroe to be the future
cornerstones of the offensive line. He has all the physical tools,
toughness, technique, and competitiveness to start as a rookie. Terrance
Knighton is a long-armed run player that will compete for a position in
the front rotation. The wide-bodied developmental tackle is a
competitive and athletic bull rusher that needs technique work. Derek
Cox must have impressed the Jacksonville brass somewhere because
the team gave up a second round pick in the 2010 draft and a 7th round
pick in the 2009 draft to select him in the third round. He is a height,
weight, and speed prospect that flashes a closing burst on the ball. A
physical player, he will get a shot at corner and safety to make the
team. He ran a 4.45 at his pro day and will contribute on special teams’
coverage. Mike Thomas is the sleeper of the Jags’ draft. The explosive
hand catcher rarely drops a ball. Competitive and scrappy, he is quick
in and out of his cuts. He is a playmaker that gets open and makes
plays. Thomas can make a defender miss in the open field. He is a good
route runner that will compete as a special teams’ returner. Jarett
Dillard, like Thomas, is shorter than ideal but possesses outstanding
hands and eye-hand coordination. He runs precise routes with good
body control. Quick and sudden in his movements, he is a natural
receiver that can make the clutch catch and the off-target pass reception.
Zach Miller is an athletic small college quarterback that was drafted as
a tight end/H-back projection. He played in the Cactus Bowl as a tight
end and caught five passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. Rashad
Jennings fell to the seventh round but has a chance to make the team
as a between the tackles power runner. He is an outstanding athlete that
presses the hole when he runs the ball. He has good instincts and feel
for running the ball. Tiquan Underwood is an athletic receiver with
rare speed, a leggy vertical receiver with inconsistent hands. He is more
of a long strider that builds up speed as he goes down the field. He is a
developmental player with unique tools. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: Ten-year veteran Torry Holt brings a veteran presence
to an unstable receiving corps. Rookies Mike Thomas, Jarett Dillard,
and Tiquan Underwood will be given every opportunity to compete for
playing time after the purging of Matt Jones, Reggie Lewis, and Jerry
Porter. Offensive tackle Tra Thomas and strong safety Sean Considine,
both signed from the Eagles, are expected to start. Aging and injury
prone Fred Taylor signed with New England.



Tennessee Titans




Jeff Fisher’s teams are always in the Super Bowl hunt and this year is
no different. Jovan Haye was added in free agency and Sen’Derrick
Marks was drafted filling one of the Titans’ draft priorities. Three
defensive backs were also drafted to upgrade special teams’ coverage
and secondary weak spots. Kenny Britt is a possession type long
strider that builds up speed as he goes down the field. Although he was
productive over his career, he is not a natural hand catcher. He will
compete with Justin Gage at one wide receiver spot. He has the tools to
help the Titans improve their passing game, but he must improve in
every phase of his game. Sen’Derrick Marks played with ankle injuries
during his junior year, but was an underachiever in most phases of his
game. The Titans are going to need his best effort to work into the front
rotation of Jovan Haye, Jason Jones, and Tony Brown. He may be
more athlete than playmaker. Jared Cook is an athletic tight end that
needs to improve his blocking and receiving skills to make the team. He
may be more athlete than football player. Cook lacks playing consistency
and inline functional strength to block ends and linebackers. Ryan
Mouton is a good athlete that closes quickly on the ball. A tough and
competitive corner, he is a willing tackler and hitter. He will back up Pro
Bowler Cortland Finnegan and compete for a nickel or dime corner
position. Gerald McRath projects to be the backup to productive
Keith Bulluck. He is very athletic, active, and instinctive in his play. He
has excellent straight line speed, makes plays all over the field, and will
contribute on special teams. Troy Kropog will back up Pro Bowler
Michael Roos. He is more physical than athletic in his play. In college
he played left tackle. He plays with good technique and quick feet and
is crafty in his play. Javon Ringer is a smart and instinctive runner that
drives his legs on contact. Athletic with quickness and cutting ability,
he is a change of pace type back that has returned kickoffs in the past.
He has better running skills than Chris Henry. Jason McCourty is a
workout warrior that ran in the 4.35 range this spring. A developmental
project, he flashed kickoff return ability his senior year. Dominique
Edison adds more youth to the Titan receiving corps. A small college
athlete, he has size and speed. He is a developmental project that needs
work on his routes and the nuances of receiver play. Ryan Durand is a
developmental guard that is more tough and physical than athletic.
Nick Schommer has good size and speed for a free safety, plus good
tackling skills. He is a tough physical player that should contribute on
special teams’ coverage. He is a developmental player that is smart and
instinctive. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.


FREE AGENCY: Nate Washington helped upgrade a very mediocre
receiving corps. He received a $27 million dollar contract with $9 million
guaranteed over six years. The Titans also signed Kerry Collins to a
two year deal to throw to the new group of receivers. Rob Bironas, a
money kicker, was extended for four more years at $3 million a year, $5
million guaranteed. Jovan Haye was signed to help lessen the blow
from the Albert Haynesworth departure. Return specialist Mark Jones
replaces Chris Carr who departed for Baltimore. Patrick Ramsey will
compete with Vince Young for the backup spot behind Collins.

2009 NFC West Draft Review

Arizona Cardinals


The defending NFC champions should not lose focus on the job
at hand with Ken Whisenhunt’s and Kurt Warner’s previous
Super Bowl experience. Whisenhunt has added stability to the
coaching staff and Warner’s leadership in the locker-room can’t
be underestimated. The Cardinals addressed needs at running
back, outside linebacker, offensive line, and defensive end. Free
agency also filled a hole at corner with the signing of Bryant
McFadden. Chris Wells was a steal at the 31st pick in the draft
and will help upgrade one of the league’s worst running attacks.
He should shine in a one-back set with receivers spreading the
defense out. He is a power runner that is not easy to tackle in
space. Cody Brown will add youth to a veteran but aging group
of outside linebackers. He has the athletic ability to upgrade the
position, but has questionable instincts. He has good first step
quickness and a burst to the quarterback once he gets by the
blocker. Rashad Johnson is an instinctive safety with good ball
skills. He will try to unseat Matt Ware as a backup to Antrel Rolle
and be a force on special teams. Greg Toler is an athletic corner
that played semi pro football and eventually landed at St. Paul’s
College in Southern Virginia. A raw developmental talent, he has
speed, skills, and quickness. Herman Johnson is a huge mauler
with long arms and catcher’s mitt hands. He’s projected to back
up Reggie Wells at left guard but will also get a look at right
tackle. Athletic for his size, he has the ability to quick position a
defender and bury them in the run game. Will Davis will compete
for a backup spot at linebacker. He has a quick first step and a
burst to get up the field. To make the team he will need to improve
his hand strength and the ability to disengage. LaRod Stephens-
Howling is an explosive Darren Sproles’ type runner that rotated
with LeSean McCoy. He fits the third down role that JJ Arrington
shined in last fall and was drafted to be a change of pace back.
Trevor Canfield was a seventh round bargain and should develop
into a solid pro. He is competitive and physical in his play and could
play four positions as a backup. He is a good football player that is
not always pretty but gets the job done. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.

FREE AGENCY: Kurt Warner’s new contract and the franchise
tag placed on Karlos Dansby insures continuity on both sides of
the ball and another playoff run. Corner Bryant McFadden was
signed to upgrade size, coverage ability, and tackling opposite
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. McFadden fills a void that makes
the Cardinals’ secondary a team strength. Dan Kreider is a veteran
blocker that started his career with the Steelers and is penciled in
to start at fullback. Anthony Becht will compete at tight end with
Leonard Pope and Ben Patrick. Oliver Ross was also brought
back to add depth in the offensive line. Defensive end Antonio
Smith will be a major loss.


St. Louis Rams


The St. Louis Rams added to their offensive line player pool in
free agency by signing center Jason Brown and drafting athletic
tackle Jason Smith. There is talent available, but it has not been
a cohesive unit to this point. Moving Jacob Bell back to guard
from right tackle should help. James Laurinaitis upgrades the
middle area of the run defense. He will have a lot to learn in Steve
Spagnuolo’s defense but he is a good fit. Pat Shurmer is installing
a run-oriented West Coast offense, featuring Steven Jackson
and that should take some pressure off the defense by controlling
the ball more. Jason Smith will start out at right tackle, however
the whole offensive line is a work in progress and may not be
solidified until September 13th on a trip to Seattle to open the
season. The physical long-armed athlete is an ascending player
that has all the tools to be a standout pass protector and run
blocker. Something that was just as important to the Rams as his
physical ability is his mental approach to being a pro; off-season
work habits, film study, coachability, and his desire to improve
his total game. James Laurinaitis is the starting middle
linebacker until he proves he can’t do the job. The instinctive
three down linebacker is technique conscious and smart. He
demonstrates all good middle linebacker traits: physical and
mental toughness, productivity, leadership, and is quick to read
and react. Bradley Fletcher is the sleeper of the Rams’ draft. A
big corner that is a good athlete, he can turn and run. He is
smooth in his transition and plays fast with a sudden drive on
the ball. He can match up with big receivers. An ascending player,
he may play best in man-to-man coverage. Defensive tackle Dorell
Scott has the size and the strength to win a spot in the front
rotation with Clifton Ryan and Adam Carriker. Scott is a good
athlete with a thick upper and lower body. He is a good effort
player that will finish long and short pursuit. He has the ability to
two gap. Brooks Foster is a raw athlete with an injury history
and limited starting experience. He is a hand catcher that has the
triangle height, weight, and speed numbers for the position. A
developmental receiver, he has a chance to make the club if he
stays healthy. Keith Null is a developmental quarterback that
was very productive at the Division II level. He played in a spread
offense and is a good size (6031, 222). Chris Ogbonnaya is a big
back (5116, 220) that was a part-time starter. He runs in the 4.60
forty range. The best thing he does is catch the football. Originally
he came to Texas as a receiver. He was a backup to Jamaal Charles
in 2007. GRADE: ABOVE AVERAGE.

FREE AGENCY: The Rams stabilized their offensive line with the
signing of center Jason Brown. Brown was given a five-year deal
with twenty-million dollars in guaranteed money. Kyle Boller also
came over from the Ravens and will back up Marc Bulger who
struggled the past two years with poor offensive line play and
injuries. Strong safety James Butler started the past two years
with the Giants and knows Spagnuolo’s system. Mike Karney
was signed as a lead blocker for Steven Jackson after Dan
Kreider’s departure.


San Francisco 49ers


San Francisco stuck to their board selecting the highest rated player.
When receiver Michael Crabtree dropped to them at the tenth pick, the
card was ready to hand to the commissioner. Crabtree is a feature
receiver that will help the quarterback and keep Isaac Bruce from being
doubled. He will keep the opposing defense honest enough and take a
safety out of the box to help Frank Gore and the running game. The
49ers didn’t draft a needed pass rusher. Sacks will have to come from a
variety of blitzes and dogs. Jimmy Raye is the seventh offensive
coordinator in seven years and is more run and play pass oriented.
Michael Robinson will back up Gore, but third round pick Glen Coffee
will be in the mix. Mike Singletary has brought some physical and
mental toughness to a team that has had seven straight losing seasons.
Michael Crabtree has the talent to be the best wide receiver on the
team once he steps on the practice field. He doesn’t have the pelts on
the wall like veteran savvy Isaac Bruce does, but Crabtree’s talent level
is ascending. The red-shirt sophomore has outstanding hands and a
strong upper body. He gets open with his quickness and instincts. His
left foot fracture is still healing however. Glen Coffee was a major
reach in the third round. Not natural or instinctive, he is a leggy runner
that has problems with sharp cuts and change of direction. He lacks
long finish speed and has had ball security problems in the past. He’s a
north-south runner that is always going forward. He’s a third down
back. Scott McKillop has one critical factor that all middle linebackers
need – instincts. He has a nose for the ball and quick reactions. Tough
and physical attacking blockers, he has the ability to back up both
inside linebacker spots and compete on special teams. Nate Davis is a
developmental quarterback that has a strong arm. He played in a spread
offense where most of his receivers are running wide open. He flashes
a quick release once he makes his decision where to throw the ball.
Clearly a developmental project, he may be a practice squad player for
a time before he gets an opportunity to step on the field. He must
overcome a learning disability to absorb a complex NFL playbook.
Bear Pascoe is an inline blocking tight end with good hands. He will
make the team as the second or third blocker in sub packages. Physical
in his play, he works to finish his blocks. He is also a good downfield
blocker. Curtis Taylor is a free safety with good athletic ability. His
ticket to making the ball club is to clean up the inconsistencies in his
overall play and be able to contribute on special teams. Ricky Jean-
Francois started ten games in three years despite his explosiveness and
talent. Short on maturity, he gets lazy and plays high. A high maintenance
player, he has the ability to contribute; but as always – buyer beware.
Singletary may have to give him the Vernon Davis speech if he doesn’t
play up to his capabilities. GRADE: AVERAGE.

FREE AGENCY: Right tackle Marvel Smith has talent but has had back
problems for the past two years. He will compete with Adam Snyder
and Barry Sims. Fullback Moran Norris returns to the 49ers after a
stint in Detroit. Corner Dre’Bly, defensive end Demetric Evans,
linebacker Marques Harris, quarterback Damon Huard, and receiver
Brandon Jones are all reserves.


Seattle Seahawks


New Seahawks’ coach, Jim Mora, was weaned on a strong running
attack, complemented by the play action passing game and a
defense that is attacking with well disguised blitzes. Matt
Hasselbeck hopes to get back to his outstanding 2007 production
after working his way through a back injury last year. He will be
throwing to big ticket free agent T.J. Houshmandzadeh and a
healthy Nate Burleson and Deion Branch. Aaron Curry is a fast
twitched sideline to sideline linebacker that was taken in the first
round. Curry was recognized as the top defensive player in the
draft and his stock will soar if he can blitz as well as projected. He
essentially replaces aging former Pro Bowler Julian Peterson who
was traded to Detroit. The athletic linebacker joins Lofa Tatupu
and Leroy Hill to give the Seahawks a young group of impressive
tackling machines. Curry will fit in as a stack and shed linebacker
that is instinctive and aggressive. Max Unger may have been the
top utility offensive lineman in the draft. He will get every chance
to unseat Chris Spencer who has not developed as quickly at
center as projected. Right guard may also be an option if Rob
Sims doesn’t stay healthy. Unger is a strong drive blocker that
plays the game on his feet. Deon Butler is a small but speedy
receiver that catches the ball in his hands. He is elusive after
catch and can stop and start on a dime. He brings another
dimension to the Seattle receiving corps where most receivers
are tall. He does need route refinement however. Mike Teel is a
developmental quarterback that was productive in college. He
will compete with Jeff Rowe for the third position. Courtney
Greene is a free safety that is a rangy hitter. He’s a physical
tackler that is aggressive and competitive on special teams. He is
better as a box run player than playing off in coverage. Nick
Reed will line up at left end after a productive college career
where he recorded 29 ½ sacks and 51 ½ tackles for loss. A pass
rushing specialist, he lacks the bulk (6013, 245) to consistently
play the run as an end in a four man front. Cameron Morrah is a
good athlete that is an H-back type receiver that can adjust on
the move and in space. He has the ability to kick out an end
rusher in the power run game when in motion and on the move.
He lacks the bulk to be an inline blocker. Morrah is a hand catcher
that was particularly productive on the goal line. GRADE:
AVERAGE.

FREE AGENCY: Wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh was given a
five-year contract with fifteen-million in guaranteed money. The
2007 Pro Bowl selection strengthens a battered receiving corps
that was decimated by injuries in 2008. Colin Cole comes over
from Green Bay to fill Rocky Bernard’s spot at defensive tackle.
Cory Redding is versatile enough to rotate at defensive end and
defensive tackle. Major losses are Bernard, linebacker Julian
Peterson, and fullback Leonard Weaver.