EMQB's Fantasy Sleepers - AFC North

Today's fantasy sleepers come to us via the AFC North, which was known for its hard-nosed, run- first mentality, but is slowly evolving into a more passer friendly group. With the great defenses in the division, these sleepers better keep their eyes open and their head on a swivel.

Pittsburgh Steelers - Mike Wallace, WR: Considering the trade of Santonio Holmes, Wallace might not be a guy many owners are sleeping on. With bigger "name" wide receivers on the roster, like Hines Ward and Antwaan Randle-El, Wallace could be overlooked and be an awesome value pick. Wallace is a speedster who is adept at making plays down the field. He averaged 75 receiving yards a game the last three games of last season and added 3 touchdowns in those contests. If he could keep that up over a full season, that would be more than 1200 receiving yards. He could be available for sixth or seventh round draft pick and could far out produce guys drafted ahead of him.

Cleveland Browns - James Davis, RB: A rookie who had an awesome pre-season last year but was sidelined after week three for the entire remainder of the 2009 season. With the drafting of Montario Hardesty and the strong finish of Jerome Harrison last season, Davis will be an afterthought in many draft magazines and websites. He fought off C.J. Spiller for a starting job for three years and has as much physical talent as Hardesty or Harrison. Don't sleep on this guy. If he wins the starting job in Cleveland, he is a solid no. 3 running back, and if he doesn't, he will be a top name to watch in case of injury.

Baltimore Ravens - Donte' Stallworth, WR: After being suspended for the entire 2009, Stallworth gets a new opportunity with the Ravens. Existing starters Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are still on the roster, and Baltimore made a big trade for Anquan Boldin, so Stallworth is facing a tough battle to get reps. He could surpass Clayton, who has been a disappointment and is coming off a knee injury. He will never be a number one but has nice run after the catch ability, and this Ravens wide receiver corps is lacking blazing speed. Stallworth is not drafting at this point, but if he moves up the depth chart in the pre-season, he could fill in nicely as a bye week replacement.

Cincinnati Bengals - Matt Jones, WR: Another player looking to revive his career, Jones has elite physical talent. He is on a team that is filled with wide receivers (Chad Ochocinco, Antonio Bryant, Andre Caldwell, Jerome Simpson, and Jordan Shipley) so he could have trouble making the roster. Jones has never had a huge season (65 catches, 761 yards and 5 receiving touchdowns are his career highs) so my optimism is guarded. But if he wins the fourth receiver job and an injury occurs, Jones suddenly becomes a nice player to stash on your roster. Jones is the biggest long shot I have profiled so far, but a player with his ability should always be on your radar.

Tomorrow we will explore the hidden gems on the Texans, Colts, Jags, and Titans. With all the offensive firepower, it's going to be hard to find guys who aren't high on everybody's cheat sheet. The Every Morning Quarterback is up to the challenge. Prepare to dominate your league in your knowledge of third string wide receivers and developmental quarterbacks.






Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
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Don't Ever Sleep On the Bengals

Is former Raiders' quarterback Jamarcus Russell going to be a Cincinnati Bengal? Chad Ocho Cinco has proclaimed that he "would see Jamarcus Russell in mini camp" via Twitter. Take it with a grain of salt but OCNN broke the signing of Adam Jones and the visit of Terrell Owens. This has the Twitter world all a flutter.

Even though I pretty much guaranteed that Russell would never play in the NFL again, I obviously forgot that the Cincinnati Bengals are still an NFL franchise. They are always looking to snatch up physically talented players at dollar store prices, and Russell fits that description. He also fits a need as the Bengals need a solid backup. 

The question is: can Russell develop into a dependable back up? How will he fit into a locker room that already has guys who have made questionable decisions in the past? For the money he'll get, getting a look at Jamarcus will be cost effective. Fortunately for Russell, Cincy is a long ways away from Vegas.





Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
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Pacman Yes, T.O. No

The announcement came last Thursday that Adam "Pacman" Jones signed with the Cincinnati Bengals. This is not a shock as the Bengals are known to take risks with players that other teams have deemed "damaged goods".

Jones is probably better known for his season long suspension in 2007 and his numerous run-ins with the law than he has been for his on the field accomplishments in the NFL.

If someone who didn't even play last season and has a questionable legal past like Jones can get an NFL job, what does that say about the playing future of wide receiver Terrell Owens?

The Bengals brought Owens in for a visit in early March and was very close to signing him but ended up signing the younger Antonio Bryant to a four year contract.

Adam Jones understands one thing that Owens doesn't. Your only monetary worth as an employee is what someone is willing to pay you. Jones most likely took a deal at the league minimum and was given playing incentives to increase the total amount of the contract. Owens, and his agent Drew Rosenhaus, reportedly want at least 5 million dollars for Terrell's services this next season.

The reality is Owens is a 36 year old who is coming off his worst season since 1999. He turned the 49ers locker room on its head and tried to create dissent amongst his teammates in Philadelphia. Then there was his  Romo-Witten writing secret plays on table napkins incident in Dallas. T.O. was quiet last season in Buffalo, but if he would have spoken up, would anybody have listened to him anyway?

Adam Jones has had his problems off the field, but by all accounts has been a decent "locker room" guy. Owens, like Barry Bonds, will never shake the reputation as a locker room cancer and still believes he is an elite player. The Bengals obviously felt that Jones was worth the risk and Owens wasn't. "Pacman" seems to realize this is his last chance to play in the NFL. It seems that Owens last chance may have come to pass.




Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
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Cincinnati Bengals 2010 Draft Review

The Bengals' draft went big time:  big time players from big time schools. Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, and Georgia were the schools from which Cincinnati plucked its talent. Jermaine Gresham, who fit a need as an explosive pass catcher and blocker, was probably an easy pick to make. Jordan Shipley is looked at as a slot receiver. Carlos Dunlap and Brandon Ghee are welcome additions to what already was the Bengals strong point - their defense. My favorite player of the Bengals' draft was Geno Atkins, an undersized hustler who could eventually grab the starting defensive tackle job. Even the late round picks of Muckleroy, Hudson, Briscoe, and Stephens all have some intriguing upside. The Bengals have done so well through the draft and free agency that they have allowed themselves some room to take risks, and many could pay off in this draft.


Round 1, Pick 21

Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Ht: 6’ 5 ¼” Wt: 261

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Gresham is a no-brainer pick.  After losing T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chris Henry, the Bengals were lacking a downfield passing game.  Hopefully Gresham will open up the outside for OchoCinco and Antonio Bryant.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: May require an adjustment period after missing a season of football and would be best matched with a patient TE coach, but possesses all the physical ability to become a very solid starter in the pros, capable of contributing on every down, and has great upside to develop.

NFL projection: First-round pick

GM Jr’s scouting report:  There are a lot of things to like about Gresham because he has the size, strength, athleticism, hands and playing speed make big plays as a receiver and to be a solid blocker when he uses good technique.  He definitely looks the part on the “Hoof” and has the natural size, strength and athleticism that few NFL tight ends have.  My biggest concern with his on field play is that his upright playing style (both running routes, running after the catch and as a blocker) remind me a little of Leonard Pope who was a 2nd round pick by the Cardinals and has struggled to become a good NFL player.  Overall, Gresham has worked out well this spring easing concerns about the knee injury that caused him to miss his senior season, but I still am concerned about his long term durability because it seems that a number of players who have had the micro-fracture surgery have struggled to get back to their pre-injury form and have been hindered for a few seasons after the surgery.  If he is able to stay healthy then he will become a good starting tight end who makes plays as a receiver, but will likely always be an inconsistent blocker.  However, if he does not play more aggressively and with better technique in the NFL then he will always struggle to play up to his natural talent level. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Gresham missed the 2009 season following September surgery on his right knee.  If he checks out medically and proves he is back to full strength, Gresham remains the clear No. 1 tight end in this draft.  Before the injury, he displayed the height, strength and speed to be mismatch for linebackers and safeties. 

Round 2, Pick 54

Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

Ht: 6’ 5 ¾” Wt:  277

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Bengals are not afraid to take players who are are superior athletes but have motivational issues.  Dunlap is the perfect case of a first-round athlete with mid-round results in his play.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Inconsistent, enigmatic, developing pass rusher who is still growing into his frame and dripping with potential. Possesses a unique combination of size, length and athletic ability to disrupt offenses, but has unnerving underachiever traits that make him a big-time boom-or-bust investment. His mental fortitude will be tested, and he easily could be chewed up by NFL offensive linemen upon his arrival. Has some similarities to Arizona Cardinals 2008 second-rounder Calais Campbell but is not as big and even more unrefined at this stage in his development.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Being suspended just days before the SEC title game last year clouds Dunlap’s status.  Scouts are giving him a high grade due to his rare frame and versatility, but his alcohol-related arrest, and the timing and details of that event, might give some teams pause.

Round 3, Pick 84

Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas

Ht: 5’ 11 ¼” Wt: 193

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another receiver who shows ability to get open in short areas, Shipley is an excellent addition to the Bengals.  If you combine him with the potential impact of Jermaine Gresham, the Bengals could have a much more effective pass game in the upcoming 2010 season.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A very tough, productive, quicker- than-fast slot receiver whose career has been marred by injury, Shipley also has proven to be a dependable return man and has the potential to develop into a solid starter. Must prove that he is strong and durable enough to work the middle of the field consistently at the pro level.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Shipley’s underrated quickness and ability to find holes in zones and gain yards after the catch make him a perfect slot receiver candidate – as does his toughness over the middle despite only adequate size for the position.  Adding his return skills to the mix makes him a likely top 75 pick.  

Round 3, Pick 96

Brandon Ghee, CB, Wake Forest

Ht: 5’ 11 5/8” Wt: 192

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Ghee is a classic example of having exceptional track speed but the game tape not confirming that speed.  I suspect the Bengals will try to make him a nickel corner and that is what best suits his game.  Being matched up against the second or third best receiver on the other team will play to Ghee's strengths.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A former track standout with big-time speed, Ghee’s best season came as a sophomore, and his inconsistent, undisciplined play the last two seasons is unnerving. A finesse man- cover corner with moldable talent, Ghee lacks ball skills and does not play to his workout numbers, based on which he will be overdrafted. Could bring early value as a gunner but has bust potential.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Ghee is athletically gifted, but seems more interested in making the big hit than the interception.  In fact, some scouts feel his pro best position will be safety.  There is merit there, considering his production as a tackler and lack of big plays in coverage. 

120.)  Cincinnati Bengals
Geno Atkins, DT, Georgia
Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 293

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  One of the most underrated players in this draft, Atkins will make up for his small stature with his playmaking ability and incredible hustle.  Another great athlete selected by the Bengals, their defense has become very deep with talent.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Atkins had his best season as a freshman, but he does have NFL talent.  Atkins may have to be used on a rotational system early in his career – not just because he tires quickly but to use playing time as a motivator.  

131.)  Cincinnati Bengals

Roddrick Muckelroy, OLB, Texas
Ht 6' 2"  Wt  246
EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Muckelroy is the first Bengals draft pick that is not a freak athlete.  He is, however, a great candidate for special teams and could provide depth to an already deep linebacker core.    

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Active, disciplined, assignment- sound “Will” linebacker whose football character and solid intangibles buoy an average athletic skill set. Competes, gives consistent effort and puts the time in to get better. Has traits to be a core special-teams player.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

152.)  Cincinnati Bengals
Otis Hudson, OG, Eastern Illinois
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 312

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Hudson is another athlete who's not translated that to the field completely.  He's a developmental prospect with big upside but if he can't get enough snaps, he may never reach potential.  The Bengals have been consistent in their drafting where athleticism has trumped immediate impact.  

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Hudson is a player I knew nothing of when I began to evaluate LT Campbell, but within just a few snaps it became clear that he is as good an athlete as Campbell, if not better, and has the physical tools to play in the NFl.  He began his college career at Minnesota where he was a backup DT who got legitimate playing time, but he transferred to EIU before the 2008 season and ended up starting 9 games of 2008 season at RT and then started the entire 2009 season at Rt.  There is no doubt that he is a better athlete than OT right now, but his combination of foot quicks, athleticism, flexibility and excellent natural strength is very hard to find.  Overall, I doubt Hudson is going to be drafted as he was not invited to the Combine or one of the major All Star Games, but he is definitely a better athlete than many of the big school OL who will be drafted.  he is an ideal practice squad, developmental prospect who has all the talent to become a good starting RT in a few seasons which is why he is worth a 5th/6th round selection (he may be the type of player who impresses enough in pre-season games that he cannot be cut and  slipped thru to the practice squad so he may have to stay on the active roster while he develops).  

191.)  Cincinnati Bengals
Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas
Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 207

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Briscoe was highly rated coming in to last season, but did nothing to increase his draft stock.  A good route runner with NFL size, Briscoe lacks the top end speed to be an elite receiver.  He could contribute as a returner.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The lack of national publicity, a new coaching staff and the graduation of QB Todd Reesing made Briscoe’s decision to head to the NFL an easy one.  The Jayhawks’ career leader in receiving yards and touchdowns, he is a highly productive player with good size and playmaking skills.  But concerns about his lack of top-end speed and playmaking skills will likely keep Briscoe out of the top 50.  

228.)  Cincinnati Bengals

Reggie Stephens, OL, Iowa State

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 333

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Stephens is a versatile lineman.  He has played all three interior line positions and started for three plus seasons at Iowa State.  His pass blocking footwork needs to be coached up, but he's a good run blocker.

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

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

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

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Round 7, Pick 223 - 228

223.)  Carolina Panthers

R.J. Stanford, DB, Utah

Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 180

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Stanford is a good prospect as far as speed and size is concerned.  His actual on the field ability is in question.  Perhaps Carolina thinks with pro-coaching Stanford could become a contributing cornerback and special teamer.

GM Jr’s scouting report:   RJ Stanford’s lack of size and strength, as well as poor technique, will certainly scare some teams away, but his speed will convince others to take a second look. His height/weight combo his ability to be physical with bigger receivers in man coverage, and his choppy pedal causes him to lose ground quickly on the flip. However, he has the speed to recover and undercut the route on most receivers. He is at his best in zone coverage, as he does an excellent job of reading the QB and accelerating to the play in front of him. While these traits make him look like a good candidate for a cover 2 team, he will need to improve his competitiveness against the run in order to round out his skill set and see significant time on the field. As a rookie he projects as a dime back who should be a contributor on special teams. If he can improve his technique and strength level significantly, he could develop into a solid nickel back, capable of filling in at #2 against smaller receivers who are more his size. He has a lot of work to do to prove himself, but with such a premium placed on speed, RJ is worth a late round pick.

224.)  San Francisco 49ers 

Phillip Adams, DB, South Carolina State

Ht: 5' 10" Wt: 182

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Adams continues the run on valuable returners in this round.  Small school experience and lack of top end speed kept his stock down, but his ball skills and open field creativity can translate to the NFL level.  

  

225.)  Denver Broncos

Syd'quan Thompson, CB, California

Ht: 5' 9" Wt: 186

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  One of the players that made a name for himself at the Senior Bowl, Thompson is an extremely instinctive corner but lacks the top end speed to play the outside receivers.  The Broncos could use him as a nickel or corner back this season because he is very smart and will find his way onto the football field.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   An undersized, feisty, throwback-type slot defender and punt returner with exceptional heart and football character, Thompson does not meet height-weight-speed standards but maximizes his ability and stands out on tape. Better football player than athlete who will make it hard for a team to cut him.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

226.)  St. Louis Rams

George Selvie, DE, Southern Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 252

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  After a spectacular sophomore season, Selvie disappointed his last two college years.  Selvie is a good straight-line rusher but does not  have the size and strength to out muscle tackles and can be blocked too easily.  If he can show his early college form, Selvie could earn a spot on the Rams' roster.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Very tough, upright tweener who is most known for his superproductive sophomore season and does not get enough credit for how strong and tough he is for a lightweight plugger. Lacks the athletic ability and bend desired in a rush linebacker and lack of size could be limiting as an every-down defensive end. However, he does play big for his size with enough leverage and grit to stick as a 4-3 base end despite his lack of bulk.

NFL projection: Fifth- to sixth-round pick.

227.)  Houston Texans 

Dorin Dickerson, TE, Pittsburgh

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 226

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Dickerson's issue is he's oversized for a receiver and much too small to be a full-time tight end.  The Texans need to have a plan to use him as a receiver/blocker that lines up wide of the offensive tackle.  Dickerson can be more than successful if used properly.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Found a home at H-back as a senior after being shuttled between positions his first three years and has shown big-time flashes of potential. Possesses the vertical speed to stretch the seam and athletic ability to mismatch linebackers on crossing routes. Exceptional Combine performance and rare top-end speed will enhance value but is still raw as a route runner and will need to be used on simple routes where he does not have to make sharp cuts to be most effective. Has ability to factor situationally immediately.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

228.)  Cincinnati Bengals

Reggie Stephens, OL, Iowa State

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 333

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Stephens is a versatile lineman.  He has played all three interior line positions and started for three plus seasons at Iowa State.  His pass blocking footwork needs to be coached up, but he's a good run blocker.

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

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

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

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Round 6, Pick 190 - 194

190.)  Oakland Raiders
Travis Goethel, LB, Arizona State 

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 240

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Raiders add another inside linebacker and special teams player.  Goethel has an excellent work ethic and will probably make a Raiders' team that is lacking depth at this position.  

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Gothel is the classic over-achieving MLB who struggles greatly to carry his college production onto the NFL. He has all the intangibles that NFL teams want, but lacks the foot quicks, agility and playing speed to make plays out-side of a small area in the NFL and cannot adjust to tackle well out in space. Overall, Goethel is not going to be drafted because of his lack of athleticism, but his toughness, instincts, smarts and intangibles will likely lead to him being signed as a free agent. He is going to have a tough time carving out a long NFL career, but is the type of player who often finds a way to make teams because he has all the great intangibles that NFL coaches fall in love with.

191.)  Cincinnati Bengals
Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 207

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Briscoe was highly rated coming in to last season, but did nothing to increase his draft stock.  A good route runner with NFL size, Briscoe lacks the top end speed to be an elite receiver.  He could contribute as a returner.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The lack of national publicity, a new coaching staff and the graduation of QB Todd Reesing made Briscoe’s decision to head to the NFL an easy one.  The Jayhawks’ career leader in receiving yards and touchdowns, he is a highly productive player with good size and playmaking skills.  But concerns about his lack of top-end speed and playmaking skills will likely keep Briscoe out of the top 50.  

192.)  Buffalo Bills
Danny Batten, DE,  South Dakota State
Ht: 6 ' 3" Wt: 248

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Batten is probably going to be converted to an outside linebacker.  He doesn't have any experience and is raw coming from a small school.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Tough, overachieving, effort rusher who needs to be schemed to slant, stunt and play in gaps to have a chance in the pros. Could be tried as a rush linebacker, although he has little experience playing in space and could require a big adjustment period. Developmental prospect with athletic limitations.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

193.)  Green Bay Packers
James Starks, RB, Buffalo

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 218

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Starks is a good overall running back who doesn't do anything particularly well but does everything none the less.  He could stick on with the Packers as a back up runner and special teams player.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  “Little Buck’s” lack of elusiveness will be noted.  But as long as his shoulder checks out, his surprising strength, straight-line speed and receiving hands (93 catches in 2007-08) still make him stand out in a weak senior running back class.

194.)  Baltimore Ravens
Ramon Harewood, OT, Morehouse

Ht: 6' 7" Wt: 360

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another steal by the Ravens, Harewood is a huge physical specimen and could develop into a starter.  With tackle being a strength, taking a risk on this raw prospect was worth it.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   College left tackle who will have to make it on the right side in the pros or potentially on the inside, where he would have help on each side and could better function in a short area. Combination of size, smarts and arm length could attract a patient coach eager to refine raw talent. Would be best playing closer to 330 pounds and clearly has coachable upside.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

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

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

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

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Round 5, Pick 152 - 156

152.)  Cincinnati Bengals
Otis Hudson, OG, Eastern Illinois

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 312

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Hudson is another athlete who's not translated that to the field completely.  He's a developmental prospect with big upside but if he can't get enough snaps, he may never reach potential.  The Bengals have been consistent in their drafting where athleticism has trumped immediate impact.  

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Hudson is a player I knew nothing of when I began to evaluate LT Campbell, but within just a few snaps it became clear that he is as good an athlete as Campbell, if not better, and has the physical tools to play in the NFl.  He began his college career at Minnesota where he was a backup DT who got legitimate playing time, but he transferred to EIU before the 2008 season and ended up starting 9 games of 2008 season at RT and then started the entire 2009 season at Rt.  There is no doubt that he is a better athlete than OT right now, but his combination of foot quicks, athleticism, flexibility and excellent natural strength is very hard to find.  Overall, I doubt Hudson is going to be drafted as he was not invited to the Combine or one of the major All Star Games, but he is definitely a better athlete than many of the big school OL who will be drafted.  he is an ideal practice squad, developmental prospect who has all the talent to become a good starting RT in a few seasons which is why he is worth a 5th/6th round selection (he may be the type of player who impresses enough in pre-season games that he cannot be cut and  slipped thru to the practice squad so he may have to stay on the active roster while he develops).  

153.)  Jacksonville Jaguars
Austen Lane, DE, Murray State

Ht: 6' 6" Wt:  267

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Jacksonville continues to overhaul their defensive line with this player.  He is an experienced pass rusher but needs to get stronger to be able to become a full-time player.  Lane has starter potential, but if he doesn't physically develop, he could languish as a back up.   

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Lane helped his cause with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl and is a unique athlete likely to wow in workouts.  Even with the additional 50 pounds he added over his career, Lane isn’t yet strong enough to hold up against an NFL running game.  He is surprisingly refined as a pass rusher and has a blend of burst and size 3-4 and 4-3 defenses can work with.  A team willing to invest a mid-round pick in Lane would see the move pay big dividends down the road.  

154.)  Green Bay Packers
Andrew Quarless, TE, Penn State

Ht: 6'4" Wt: 248

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Quarless is seen as a pass catching threat which is interesting considering the other tight ends that are already on the Packers.  He is developing as a blocker and will make for interesting two tight end sets with Jermichael Finley.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Although Quarless is primarily seen as a pass-catching tight end, he has improved his blocking to the point where it is a plus.  He is a matchup problem, able to threaten the seam with his height, speed and hands.  If teams are satisfied that he has turned the corner in terms of his maturity, he’ll be among a handful of tight ends fighting to be chosen in the top half of the draft.

155.)  Arizona Cardinals
John Skelton, QB, Fordham

Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 244

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another pre-draft favorite of scouts, Skelton is a quarterback who throws well on the run, has prototype size, and could - with time - develop into an NFL starter.   

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Skelton not only passes the eye test, but also moves well and throws the ball with velocity.  His game is a bit raw and he tends to take chances, but so did former Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco, who ascended to the first round in 2008.  The Fordham captain might not be drafted that high, but should be picked by a team banking on his upside.

156.)  Baltimore Ravens
David Reed, WR, Utah

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 188

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Reed is another player that needs to get stronger physically and learn the NFL passing game.   He does not possess the speed to return punts or kicks so his chances of making the Ravens are not excellent.  If he can find a place on the team playing special teams in some other capacity that would improve his chances of staying on.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Reed was the go-to big-play receiver in Utah’s offense the past two seasons after setting the national junior college reception record with 11 catches in only 10 games in 2007.  Considering his lanky frame and ability to absorb hits while maintaining his feet to make plays in space, some NFL team will get a good return on its investment in Reed.  

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

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

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

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