Round 2, Pick 62 - New England Patriots - Brandon Spikes

Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida

Ht: 6’ 2 7/8” Wt: 249  

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Despite his slow timed speed, Spikes is an excellent, instinctive football player.  He fits perfectly in New England’s scheme as an inside linebacker and will be able to play immediately. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A better football player than athlete, Spikes is a physical, high-motor linebacker in the mold of Bryan Cox with an intense on- field presence and superb instincts. Lack of foot speed will limit him to playing between the tack- les and will bring the most value to a “30” front given great size and take-on strength.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Some of Spikes’ decline in production has to do with his teammates around him developing while teams did a better job scheming to stop Spikes.  While he’s athletic enough in coverage and as a blitzer that some scouts feel he’ll adjust nicely outside, Spikes’ value lies in his versatility and explosiveness.  He will need to answer questions about his straight-line speed to earn a first-round grade. 

Pro Football Weekly 2010 Draft Preview available @ http://www.pfwstore.com/detail.aspx?ID=695

Lindy’s Sports 2010 Draft Guide available @http://www.lindyssports.com/product.php?cn=332

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