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.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Cleveland Browns 2010 Draft Review

Cleveland entered the draft with a lot of needs. They also had the benefit of having a lot of draft picks. They started the draft by drafting Joe Haden, a corner who was a lock to go to Cleveland before a slow 40-time at the combine raised some questions. Haden answered those with an excellent pro day and now is expected to step in as the number one corner for the Browns. Montario Hardesty could be a sleeper for Offensive Rookie of the Year, and Colt McCoy could develop into a decent NFL starter in the mold of Jeff Garcia. Lauvao, Asante, Mitchell, and Geathers all have the potential to be starters and were excellent value where they were drafted. Not the type of draft that will grab headlines, but  one where every player has the potential to make an impact next season.

Round 1, Pick 7

Joe Haden, CB, Florida

Ht:  5’ 10 ¾” Wt: 193

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Haden was probably best player available in spite of the fact that he ran a slow 40 time at the Combine.  Cleveland needs playmakers, and he was probably the best overall cornerback available in the draft. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Good-sized, physical, confident corner who stepped into an elite program and made an impact from Day One, going toe-to-toe with talented receivers and matching up very favorably. Should be able to compete for a job readily in the pros. Needs refinement and raised eyebrows with pedestrian 40-times at the Combine. Must still prove he is not the oversold product of a talented secondary, and spring workouts will go a long way toward determining his draft value.

NFL projection: First-round pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Haden is a third year junior who came out early for the 2010 NFL Draft because he is so physically gifted that he will really impress anyone that has questions about his ability to overcome his technique problems.  He is a very instinctive defender who consistently competes at a very high level, which helps him to make plays in every area of defense.  Overall, Haden is not a finished product by any stretch, but his combination of athleticism, explosiveness, competitiveness, instincts, toughness and ball skills have me convinced that he will improve his technique enough to become a very productive starting cornerback in the NFL.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  With Defensive Player of the Year Charles Woodson and equally impactful Jets CB Darrelle Revis proving just how effective cover corners can be, shutdown cornerbacks are valued more than ever.  Haden’s size and silky-smooth athleticism will make him a top 20 pick. 

Round 2, Pick 38

TJ Ward, S, Oregon

Ht: 5’ 10 1/2” Wt: 211

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Ward is one of those football players that if he got off the bus he would not impress you but when he puts on the pads and starts playing football he stands out.  Cleveland needs as many talented football players as possible because their roster is lacking serious depth. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Tough, competitive, compactly built short-area banger who looks most comfortable in the box. Lacks range and athletic ability to survive on the back but makes his presence felt near the line of scrimmage and should contribute readily on special teams. Good football player.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  What Ward lacks in size, he more than makes up for in versatility, toughness and aggression.  He should make an immediate impact on special teams.  His big hitting and reliable open-field tackling will likely earn him a starting position in the deep secondary early in his career. 

Round 2, Pick 59

Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Ht: 5’ 11 ¾” Wt: 225

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Hardesty is a bruising type back who can help progress the ball in small chunks.  The Browns were in need of some to eat up carries in the backfield and keep defenses honest.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Emerged as a senior under Lane Kiffin, but Hardesty has yet to prove that he can sustain success or that he can be a premiere back in the NFL. Injury history is concerning and could limit him to a complementary bruiser role, where he could be efficient between the tackles.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  NFL teams will proceed cautiously with Hardesty.  He had already undergone three knee surgeries, and scouts were disappointed with his late decision to pull out of the Senior Bowl.  When healthy, Hardesty has proven to be a legitimate workhorse with rare agility for a back his size.  He leaves Tennessee with 560 career carries, the second-highest total in school history. 

Round 3, Pick 85

Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

Ht: 6’ 1 1/8” Wt: 216

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCoy is an excellent leader and shows very good ability to throw the ball accurately on the move.  The Browns' style of offense should suit McCoy well, but his limiting physical ability may diminish his impact.  He could exceed expectations, but quarterbacks of his size and having his arm strength rarely succeed at the NFL level.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Played in a quick-hitting offense that promoted the development of arm throwers and may require some time to learn how to snap his arm and torso into throws. Will never be a prototype pocket passer with a big-time gun but does possess the toughness, accuracy, intelligence and intangibles to become an NFL starter or, at worst, be a great backup. Would be best in a West Coast offense where he could use his athletic ability to move around the pocket, sprint out and create some plays in a similar mold as Jeff Garcia or Jake Plummer. Key to success is proving he can stay healthy and handle pressure.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:

The intelligence, moxie and leadership skills that made McCoy a four-year starter and the winningest signal-caller in college football history are all appreciated by NFL teams.  His slight build will make scouts question his durability, but given the rest of his tangible and intangible positives, one would expect McCoy to be an NFL starter following some development.

Round 3, Pick 92

Shawn Lauvao, G, Arizona State

Ht: 6’ 2 7/8” Wt: 315

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A prospect that many seem to think will exceed expectations, Lauvao is the type of hard-working player that team's seek in this point of the Draft.  Though Cleveland is deep at certain positions on the offensive line, Lauvao will have an opportunity to be a part of the Browns' rotation.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Athletic, undersized, positional blocker who played guard and left tackle in college but projects inside in the pros, where he would be best served manning short areas. Had a strong showing playing guard at the Senior Bowl and possesses eventual starter potential in a zone-blocking scheme.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Lauvao made a successful conversion to left tackle in 2009, but most scouts feel he fits best at guard in the NFL.  Lauvao’s height, short arms and toughness make him an ideal fit inside.  Considering his versatility, durability and toughness, he provides good value in the middle rounds and has the work ethic to be a future NFL starter. 

160.)  Cleveland Browns
Larry Asante, S, Nebraska

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 212

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Asante is an excellent in the box strong safety.  The reason that he fell to this part of the draft is his lack of instincts which are crucial at the safety position.  Though he may never develop into a starter, he is sure to become a special teams standout.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Well-built, physical junior-college linebacker equipped with the toughness and hitting ability to bang in the box. Has some limitations in coverage but has starter-quality traits as a run defender in the box and could excel with good coaching if schemed to conceal his coverage deficiencies.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

177.)  Cleveland Browns
Carlton Mitchell, WR, South Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 215

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Mitchell is a prospect that has all of the attributes you would want in a wide receiver except consistency.  He needs to get stronger in the weight room but is an excellent draft choice by the Browns at this point in the draft because of the level of expectation.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Mitchell decided to leave USF only after coach Jim Leavitt was fired.  He has shown good route-running skills and more toughness than his lanky frame would indicate, allowing him to creep up boards throughout the draft process – as long as teams believe he can become more consistent catching the ball and blocking for the run.     

186.)  Cleveland Browns
Clifton Geathers, DE, South Carolina
Ht: 6' 7" Wt: 299

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A perfect prospect for a 3-4 defensive end, Geathers needs to gain functional strength to develop into a possible starter in the NFL.  Players of his size are rare and that makes him a good value at this point in the draft.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A big, raw base end who is still figuring it out and will take some time to adapt to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. Developmental prospect with a chance to become a functional pro once he fills out his frame but always could be at a natural leverage disadvantage.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round 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 6, Pick 185 - 189

185.)  Seattle Seahawks
Anthony McCoy, TE, USC

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 259

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The reason why McCoy dropped as low as he did is he is neither an explosive blocker or down field pass catching threat.  He's reunited with Pete Carroll, and there is the possibility that Carroll has a defined role in mind for McCoy.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Scouts will disregard McCoy’s gaudy 20.8 yards per reception in 2009, as he simply lacks the agility and straight-line speed to be a consistent game-breaker.  He does rank among the position’s better inline blockers, but McCoy will have to interview will to prove his willingness to work hard if he wants to earn a top 64 grade.

  

186.)  Cleveland Browns
Clifton Geathers, DE, South Carolina
Ht: 6' 7" Wt: 299 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A perfect prospect for a 3-4 defensive end, Geathers needs to gain functional strength to develop into a possible starter in the NFL.  Players of his size are rare and that makes him a good value at this point in the draft.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A big, raw base end who is still figuring it out and will take some time to adapt to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. Developmental prospect with a chance to become a functional pro once he fills out his frame but always could be at a natural leverage disadvantage.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

187.)  Houston Texans
Shelley Smith, OG, Colorado State 

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 300

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Smith is a prototypical zone-blocking guard that most teams overlook because of a lack of power and size.  Smith has an opportunity to latch on to the Texans as a back up.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A weak-side pulling guard and solid pass protector with enough athletic ability to develop into a functional backup guard in a zone-blocking scheme.

NFL projection: Fifth- to sixth-round pick.

188.)  Pittsburgh Steelers
Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech
Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 229

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Dwyer was once thought of as a first-round prospect; however, he slipped because of weight issues and questions on if his skills translate to the NFL.  Pittsburgh is an excellent situation for him because he can learn the pro-style offense and possibly share carries.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Among the most intriguing all-around backs in this draft, “Diesel’s” bulk, strength and surprising elusiveness made mincemeat of the ACC.  Teams will have to judge whether his production was enhanced by coach Paul Johnson’s unique offense, but considering the effectiveness Dwyer showed as a true freshman in former coach Chan Galley’s pro-style offense, their questions might be answered in the film room. 

189.)  St. Louis Rams
Eugene Sims, DE, West Texas AM
Ht: 6' 5" Wt:  240 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another undersized defensive end prospect who needs to get stronger to compete at the NFL level, Sims dominated the Division II level.  Raw in his technique, he will need NFL coaching and patience in order to achieve his maximum potential.

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 175 - 179

175.)  Carolina Panthers
Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 281

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Hardy, a player with first-round physical ability, was derailed by injury and motivational issues his last two seasons in college.  The Panthers take a flier on him knowing that, at this point in the draft, he is low risk with high reward potential.  Hardy is a prototype right defensive end and if he can play hard and stay healthy has Pro Bowl potential.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   One of the most naturally gifted pass rushers in the draft, Hardy has too many big questions overshadowing his raw traits, with concerns about his injury history, weight fluctuation, work ethic and mental makeup. Has the ability to become a double-digit sack artist if he ever figures it out. Could be managed and will need a strong support structure to make it. Senior season was derailed by injuries and he was used primarily as a pass-rush specialist when he was healthy. Could minimally fit a similar role in the pros.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

176.)  Tennessee Titans
Rusty Smith, QB, Florida Atlantic 
Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 230


EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Smith comes from a pro-style offense at FAU.  His career ended in injury and he - like Tim Tebow - has  a throwing motion issue.  He has excellent size and a decent arm.  He could develop into a nice back up quarterback in the National Football League.




177.)  Cleveland Browns
Carlton Mitchell, WR, South Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 215

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Mitchell is a prospect that has all of the attributes you would want in a wide receiver except consistency.  He needs to get stronger in the weight room but is an excellent draft choice by the Browns at this point in the draft because of the level of expectation.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Mitchell decided to leave USF only after coach Jim Leavitt was fired.  He has shown good route-running skills and more toughness than his lanky frame would indicate, allowing him to creep up boards throughout the draft process – as long as teams believe he can become more consistent catching the ball and blocking for the run.     

178.)  Buffalo Bills 
Arthur Moats, DE, James Madison
Ht:  6' 0" Wt: 246

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Moats projects to outside linebacker because of his lack of size.  He may not have the speed to be effective at the position but his college production and measurables make him worthy of a late round pick.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: College defensive end who piled up behind-the-line production, but likely will have to stand up in the pros. Is not explosive off the edge, lacks strength to play with his hand in the dirt and is not comfortable operating in space. Measurables are more intriguing than his tape.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

179.)  Dallas Cowboys
Sam Young, OT, Notre Dame

Ht: 6' 8" Wt: 316

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A big kid who needs to get much stronger, Young was man-handled at the Senior Bowl and his draft stock suffered.  He is worth the late round flier because of his work ethic and smarts.  The Cowboys have a need at tackle and guard, and Young could fill in as a reserve.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Not considered one of the more athletic tackles in the draft, Young’s size, strength and pedigree are likely to land him a spot in the middle rounds and give him the potential to have a long NFL career. 

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 157 - 161

157.)  Baltimore Ravens
Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 301

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Jones is an undersized 4-3 defensive tackle but maybe perfectly suited as a 3-4 defensive end in Baltimore's D.  Jones has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons but has played at a much higher level than his draft position would indicate.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Jones had a torn pectoral muscle after the 2008 season and torn meniscus in his knee, ending his ’09 season and drawing durability questions from scouts.  If those scouts see that pre-injury versatility to push the pocket, discard blockers to make plays in the backfield and downfield hustle in pre-draft workouts, then Jones may get himself back into the top 75 overall. 

158.)  New Orleans Saints
Matt Tennant, C, Boston College
Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 300 


EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Tennant is an undersized prospect but is a good enough athlete to make it in the NFL.  He needs to continue to add strength but has the potential to become a starter.  


Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  In 2009, Tennant joined current new England Patriot Dan Koppen as the only Boston College finalist in the history of the Rimington award, given to the nation’s top center (won by Pouncey).  Tennant lacks Pouncey’s size and physicality, but is blessed with good athleticism.  




159.)  Philadelphia Eagles
Riley Cooper, WR, Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 222

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another one of my favorite players in this draft, Cooper is sneaky fast and possesses excellent hands.  He could contribute in the slot immediately for the Eagles and would be willing to play special teams.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Cooper is moving up draft boards due to his size, underrated speed and production in the big spotlight.  His ultimate stock will be determined by how fast he runs in workouts, but no matter what his time is, Cooper is a big, savvy, physical route-runner and a good fit as a possession receiver.   

160.)  Cleveland Browns
Larry Asante, S, Nebraska

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 212

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Asante is an excellent in the box strong safety.  The reason that he fell to this part of the draft is his lack of instincts which are crucial at the safety position.  Though he may never develop into a starter, he is sure to become a special teams standout.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Well-built, physical junior-college linebacker equipped with the toughness and hitting ability to bang in the box. Has some limitations in coverage but has starter-quality traits as a run defender in the box and could excel with good coaching if schemed to conceal his coverage deficiencies.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

161.)  Minnesota Vikings
Chris Degeare, OT, Wake Forest

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 325

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Degeare is a back up right guard prospect who lacks the speed to play on the outside at tackle.  He provides good depth for the position.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Big-bodied, plodding mauler easily outmatched against quickness. Lined up at left tackle as a senior but must convert inside in the pros to have a chance.

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 3, Pick 92 - Cleveland Browns - Shawn Lauvao

Shawn Lauvao, G, Arizona State

Ht: 6’ 2 7/8” Wt: 315

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A prospect that many seem to think will exceed expectations, Lauvao is the type of hard-working player that team's seek in this point of the Draft.  Though Cleveland is deep at certain positions on the offensive line, Lauvao will have an opportunity to be a part of the Browns' rotation.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Athletic, undersized, positional blocker who played guard and left tackle in college but projects inside in the pros, where he would be best served manning short areas. Had a strong showing playing guard at the Senior Bowl and possesses eventual starter potential in a zone-blocking scheme.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Lauvao made a successful conversion to left tackle in 2009, but most scouts feel he fits best at guard in the NFL.  Lauvao’s height, short arms and toughness make him an ideal fit inside.  Considering his versatility, durability and toughness, he provides good value in the middle rounds and has the work ethic to be a future NFL starter. 

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

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 3, Pick 85 - Cleveland Browns - Colt McCoy

Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

Ht: 6’ 1 1/8” Wt: 216

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCoy is an excellent leader and shows very good ability to throw the ball accurately on the move.  The Browns' style of offense should suit McCoy well, but his limiting physical ability may diminish his impact.  He could exceed expectations, but quarterbacks of his size and having his arm strength rarely succeed at the NFL level.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Played in a quick-hitting offense that promoted the development of arm throwers and may require some time to learn how to snap his arm and torso into throws. Will never be a prototype pocket passer with a big-time gun but does possess the toughness, accuracy, intelligence and intangibles to become an NFL starter or, at worst, be a great backup. Would be best in a West Coast offense where he could use his athletic ability to move around the pocket, sprint out and create some plays in a similar mold as Jeff Garcia or Jake Plummer. Key to success is proving he can stay healthy and handle pressure.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:

The intelligence, moxie and leadership skills that made McCoy a four-year starter and the winningest signal-caller in college football history are all appreciated by NFL teams.  His slight build will make scouts question his durability, but given the rest of his tangible and intangible positives, one would expect McCoy to be an NFL starter following some development.

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

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 2, Pick 59 - Cleveland Browns - Montario Hardesty

Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Ht: 5’ 11 ¾” Wt: 225

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Hardesty is a bruising type back who can help progress the ball in small chunks.  The Browns were in need of some to eat up carries in the backfield and keep defenses honest.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Emerged as a senior under Lane Kiffin, but Hardesty has yet to prove that he can sustain success or that he can be a premiere back in the NFL. Injury history is concerning and could limit him to a complementary bruiser role, where he could be efficient between the tackles.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  NFL teams will proceed cautiously with Hardesty.  He had already undergone three knee surgeries, and scouts were disappointed with his late decision to pull out of the Senior Bowl.  When healthy, Hardesty has proven to be a legitimate workhorse with rare agility for a back his size.  He leaves Tennessee with 560 career carries, the second-highest total in school history. 

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

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 2, Pick 38 - Cleveland Browns - TJ Ward

TJ Ward, S, Oregon

Ht: 5’ 10 1/2” Wt: 211

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Ward is one of those football players that if he got off the bus he would not impress you but when he puts on the pads and starts playing football he stands out.  Cleveland needs as many talented football players as possible because their roster is lacking serious depth. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Tough, competitive, compactly built short-area banger who looks most comfortable in the box. Lacks range and athletic ability to survive on the back but makes his presence felt near the line of scrimmage and should contribute readily on special teams. Good football player.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  What Ward lacks in size, he more than makes up for in versatility, toughness and aggression.  He should make an immediate impact on special teams.  His big hitting and reliable open-field tackling will likely earn him a starting position in the deep secondary early in his career. 

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

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.