EMQB's Fantasy Sleepers - AFC West

It's now on to the AFC West and their fantasy sleepers.  Most of the names here are familiar and could harvest big dividends for the fantasy owner willing to take a risk on them.  Eddie Royal is looking to return to fantasy stardom.  Malcolm Floyd and Michael Bush are looking to finally have their breakout seasons. Tony Moeki is a rookie tight end on a Chiefs' team starved for talent at the position.  Fortunately if these guys don't come through, you can cut them and get somebody who can play.  EMQB is always putting the "ex" in expert.

Denver Broncos - Eddie Royal, WR:  With Brandon Marshall traded to Miami, Royal seems too obvious to be a sleeper. The selection of Demaryius Thomas in the first round and Royal's disappointing 2009 season (37 receptions, 345 yards, no touchdowns) doesn't guarantee that Royal will be the number one receiver in Denver.  If Royal is put in the slot with Thomas and Jabar Gaffney playing the outside receiver positions, Royal could post numbers much closer to his 2008 season (91 catches, 980 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns).  He also has great ability as a kick returner.  Look for Royal to possibly bounce back big.  He will be available somewhere around the 9th round or possibly later, but his upside at WR3 is worth the risk.


San Diego Chargers - Malcolm Floyd, WR:  Floyd's number of receptions rose from 27 in '08 to 36 in '09.  That doesn't seem like a lot, but in the Chargers' down field passing game, Floyd could develop into a scoring threat.  As the pass attempts rise for the Chargers, the number of targets for Floyd will rise with them.  Floyd is a late round pick at best and would probably be available as a priority free agent.

Kansas City Chiefs - Tony Moeki, TE:  Rookies can be the best sleepers, and Moeki is a true sleeper.  He has impressed in mini camps (in his shorts and t-shirts) and should add a threat in the middle of the field that the Chiefs have been lacking since the Tony Gonzalez trade.  Todd Haley doesn't call the tight end's number often (Sean Ryan lead the Chiefs in tight end receptions with 14 last season), and Moeki may be the fifth best receiving option on the team.  None the less, Moeki could surprise.  Though he is not worth a draft pick at this point, he is definitely worth a look in dynasty leagues and as player to keep tabs on for bye week replacements.

Oakland Raiders - Michael Bush, RB:  Bush isn't a huge sleeper, but when you consider that Darren McFadden was a high draft pick and still has great expectations attached to his immense physical talent, Bush maybe available after McFadden.  With the distinct possibility of McFadden getting injured, Bush seems like a great option in the Raiders' run first offense.  Reports are he is already running with the first team offense in mini camp and that bodes well for a possible 1,000 yard rushing season. View Bush as a RB3 with huge upside and look to select him around the fifth round.






 


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.

Denver Broncos 2010 Draft Review

Courtesy of NFL.com

The Broncos easily had the most polarizing draft of 2010. It started with the selection of a wide receiver who broke his foot working out this off season and comes out of college with experience in a very simple passing offense. Demaryius Thomas is also a game breaker who can make amazing catches in mid-air. That was followed by the selection of Tim Tebow with the 25th pick. Tebow has a hitch in his throw motion and, like Thomas, doesn't come from an offense that was very complex. This is the same Tim Tebow who proved he was one of the best players and athletes in the history of college football and is a consummate leader. The Broncos also added Zane Beadles, J.D. Walton, and Eric Olsen to help add depth to an offensive line that had trouble getting a push in the running game last season. Eric Decker and Perrish Cox were great values where they were drafted and could get the chance to make an impact next season. I can say one thing safely:  the Broncos are going to have a selfless, determined, and single-minded mentality while Josh McDaniels is the coach. That attitude is necessary to win Super Bowls. If the experiment fails, this draft could set the Broncos back for years. Only time will tell.


Round 1, Pick 22

Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech

Ht: 6’ 3 ¼” Wt: 224

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  This is an obvious pick with the fact that the Broncos need to replace Brandon Marshall.  Thomas is a great athletic specimen and will need time to develop but could become a game changer. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A big, strong, long-armed, outside- the-numbers “X” receiver who emerged from a triple-option offense featuring a limited route tree and has shown a propensity for drops. Was clocking in the high 4.3s prior to breaking his foot but does not separate consistently, and his ceiling could be as a No. 2 in the pros.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Thomas is a junior who came out early for the 2010 NFL Draft & is going to be flying up draft boards as teams get the chance to evaluate him.  He is a big receiver with outstanding athleticism for such a big man & has consistently shown the ability to make big plays.  He has shown the receiving skills to make great catches deep down the field 7 consistently is a very dangerous runner after the catch.  It is amazing that a receiver with his size & playing in an “Option” offense has been able to average over 24 yards per catch, which speaks to his big play ability – He gets started up the field very quickly after the catch, gets to full speed fast & has the elite playing speed & tackle breaking ability to consistently make big plays running after the catch. He is going to need work on his fundamentals (Especially route running, consistently catching the ball & defense recognition) after having played in a rudimentary passing attack.  Overall, Tomas may not be a household name now, but by the time the draft arrives his name will be one everyone’s lips s one of the top receivers in the entire draft & a likely Top 10 pick.  While he is going to need time to work on his routes y learn to recognize & adjust to the different defenses, he will eventually become an elite NFL receiver – He reminds me a lot of current Lions’ receiver Calvin Johnson except that Johnson has better hands & Thomas has better explosiveness and speed.  Obviously, Thomas’ broken foot will limit his ability to workout for teams before the draft, but if he falls down draft boards due to this injury some team is going to get a great bargain because in our view he is clearly the best receiver prospect in the draft and has the talent to become a game changing receiver in time.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Though scouts are certainly intrigued by Thomas’ size and spectacular big-play production, they’re concerned that Head Coach Paul Johnson’s triple-option attack significantly boosted his statistics.  For Thomas to earn a selection in the top 64, he’ll need to convince scouts he has adequate straight-line speed. 

Round 1, Pick 25

Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

Ht: 6’2 3/8” Ht: 236

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Tebow is the ultimate boom or bust prospect.  He has all of the intangibles that you look for in a leader and quarterback.  Unfortunately his mechanics and knowledge of the passing game may require him to be a back up quarterback for several years but it worked out well for Philip Rivers and Aaron Rodgers.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Has the mental toughness and intangibles to break through a brick wall and refuses to fail. Clearly looked out of his element at the Senior Bowl and is still very much a developmental project but has worked very hard to overhaul his mechanics under the tutelage of former NFL coaches, including Sam Wyche, trying to learn how to drop from under center, carry the ball high and shorten his release. May never be a classic, drop-back quarterback after coming from an unconventional, spread-option offense that will not allow for a speedy transition to the NFL. However, he has a special mental makeup and a tireless work ethic, and if he cannot win a starting QB job, could bring value as a short- yardage/goal-line runner and developmental H- back. Has the moxie and toughness to at least become a solid backup QB.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Tebow won the Heisman Trophy as a soph in 2007 and has received an enormous amount of national hope due to his outstanding production in Florida’s Spread Option Offense.  However, after breaking down the film of Tebow we cannot help but think that he is going to have real struggles to become a legitimate NFL QB.  Overall, Alex Smith played in the same offense at Utah under Coach Meyer and Vince Yong played in a very similar offense at Texas and both Smith and Young were better passers in college than Tebow has shown himself to be and they have both struggled to establish themselves as good passing quarterbacks in the NFL.  Tebow is going to have to adjust and learn to play in a more traditional pro style offense – Will need to have to line up under center, drop back to pass and red the defense while dropping back (which is much harder than when aligned in the shotgun).  Does Tebow have the physical tools to become a very good NFL QB?  Yes, there is no doubt.  However, the real questions is do we, in The War Room, believe he is worthy of a high draft pick and/or likely to become a good NFL QB?  The answer unfortunately is no. I say unfortunately because with the number of players who have gotten into trouble off the field in recent seasons the NFL could really use a kid like Tebow with such outstanding character and intangibles to make it and become a start that can lead his team year after year.  Tebow is going to be a huge test case for “Spread Option QBs” entering the NFL because if he does not make it you can be sure that many NFL teams will eliminate considering QBS that play in that system in college from being anything but 2^nd day draft prospects. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Tebow’s statistics were inflated by Meyer’s scheme.  He’ll need to improve an elongated release (including his low drop point), overall accuracy and feel in the pocket just to remain at quarterback in the NFL.  If he can improve his overall mechanics, Tebow has the intangibles every team is looking for at quarterback.

Round 2, Pick 45

Zane Beadles, G, Utah

Ht: 6’ 4 3/8” Wt:  310

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Zane Beadles is a tough, smart lineman who doesn't play with a tremendous amount of power.  He would probably be best served playing guard because he doesn't have the speed to play tackle in the NFL.  He's the perfect type of Broncos' player.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Experienced, underpowered college left tackle whose intangibles grade out much more highly than his tape evaluation. Does not have the length or foot quickness to stay outside and lacks ideal bulk and playing temperament for the inside. Could make a roster initially as a backup swingman while he develops physically and has even warranted some consideration as a center, although he lacks the quickness desired for the position. Will attract the most interest from zone-blocking schemes.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Moving Beadles inside would allow him to use his athleticism and size to his full advantage.  There might be teams willing to give him a chance at left tackle because of his pass protection skills.  The fact that he could step in and play either spot makes him a solid mid-round selection for all teams. 

Round 3, Pick 80

J. D. Walton, C, Baylor

Ht: 6’ 2 5/8” Wt: 300

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Josh McDaniels continues his preference for players with strong character.  Walton is a high-effort, hustle type player and has been excellently coached.  He should be able to come in and contribute to the Broncos and a reserve offensive lineman immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Consistent, short-area center who does not play big but is tough, competitive and feisty. Will fit best in a zone-blocking scheme and should compete for a starting job readily.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  After a redshirt season at Arizona State, the Allen, Texas native decided to bring his skills closer to home.  A finalist for the Rimington trophy as a senior, Walton displayed strength, mobility and excellent technique despite Baylor’s disappointing 2009 season.  

Round 3, Pick 87

Eric Decker, WR, Minnesota

Ht: 6’ 3 1/8” Wt: 217

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Decker dropped to this point because of injury concerns.  The Broncos selected him because of his athleticism and natural pass catching ability.  He continues the team's emphasis on character and could be able to contribute as a 3rd or 4th wide receiver next season.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Was really emerging as a receiver before a serious foot injury cut short his senior season. Inability to run before the draft could drop his stock, but Decker is a smooth moving, inside receiver with the size, competitiveness and enough foot quickness to become a depend- able No. 3 in a West Coast system.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Decker is considered a pro prospect in multiple sports, as he has already been selected twice in the amateur baseball draft (39^th round, 2008 by Milwaukee; 27^th round, ’09 by Minnesota).  If he can convince scouts that football is his first love and return from injury to work out well, Decker could get his name back into the second round. 

137.)  Denver Broncos
Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State
Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 195

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Cox is another prospect whose numbers are not indicative of his play on the field.  He is an excellent returner and provides value for the Broncos right away.  He could develop into an excellent nickel corner or possibly a starting corner.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Overhyped press-and-trail, non- contact corner with intriguing ball skills and kick-return ability that have bloated his value. Pedestrian 40-time, lack of physicality and off-coverage limitations will turn off zone-cover teams. Is too undisciplined on and off the field, and his talent might not be worth the headache a team incurs by bringing him into the clubhouse. Has impact potential as a returner but comes with a “buyer beware” label.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

183.)  Denver Broncos
Eric Olsen, C, Notre Dame
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 306

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Olsen joins the parade of new Broncos with high character and effort.  A smart player who could work his way in to the starting line up eventually. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Olsen has significant experience at guard, and was named the team’s top lineman after being charged with just one sack allowed last season.  Although not an elite athlete, Olsen’s nastiness and versatility will endear him to NFL offensive line coaches and could land him a spot in the first 150 selections. 

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.

232.)  Denver Broncos
Jammie Kirlew, DE, Indiana
Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 260

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Kirlew is a perfect 'tweener type defensive end to convert to a 3-4 outside linebacker.  He has the high character and energy that seems to be the standard for Bronco draft picks this year.  

GM Jr’s scouting report:   Kirlew may not be the most well known player on Indiana’s defense, but he was definitely their most consistently productive defender in 2009. He played defensive end at Indiana, but is going to have to make the switch to rush-linebacker to have any chance of being a contributing defensive player in the NFL. He is not a top level, quick twitch athlete which could hinder his ability to play well off the ball out in space as a linebacker at the next level. Overall, Kirlew is likely going to be a late round pick by a team that plays a 34 scheme in the hope that he can make the transition to playing rush-linebacker. He will likely end up as a backup rush-linebacker who contributes as a pass rusher and as a coverage man on special teams.

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 229 - 239

229.)  Washington Redskins
Erik Cook, C, New Mexico
Ht: 6' 6" Wt: 318

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Cook is another developmental line prospect that needs to increase his functional strength.  The Redskins selected him in hopes of adding depth to their offensive line, and he could possibly make the practice squad.   

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   College pivot who lacks the foot quickness needed to survive at center in the pros and projects to guard. Could function only in a phone booth and may be too underdeveloped physically for teams to be interested in developing him.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

230.  Green Bay Packers
C.J. Wilson, DE, East Carolina

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 290

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  As the 3-4 defensive teams look for value in the 7th round, Wilson is an excellent example of finding a specialized defensive end for that front.  Not big enough to be a 4-3 defensive tackle, Wilson could find a role as a rotational player for the Packers.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Is not a top-notch athlete and lacks ideal body length, but has enough bulk and functional strength to play the five-technique in a “30” front or be a base left end in a “40” front. Could also shift inside and serve as a nickel rusher, although does not have the wardaddy mentality to consistently play inside.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

231.)  Washington Redskins
Selvish Capers, OT, West Virginia
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 308

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Many thought Capers would go much higher than the 7th round, but his lack of speed in open space and having no experience at guard caused his fall.  Perhaps Washington thinks they can convert him a left guard where he would not be alone on an island against quick pass rushers.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Scouts are wrestling with the question of whether Capers is versatile or lacks a natural NFL position.  His frame screams left tackle but his inconsistent lateral footwork might limit his effectiveness protecting on the edge.  If a team is convinced he’s a good fit at one position, he could be a second-round pick.  If not, he’ll go into the next two rounds.  

232.)  Denver Broncos
Jammie Kirlew, DE, Indiana
Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 260

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Kirlew is a perfect 'tweener type defensive end to convert to a 3-4 outside linebacker.  He has the high character and energy that seems to be the standard for Bronco draft picks this year.  

GM Jr’s scouting report:   Kirlew may not be the most well known player on Indiana’s defense, but he was definitely their most consistently productive defender in 2009. He played defensive end at Indiana, but is going to have to make the switch to rush-linebacker to have any chance of being a contributing defensive player in the NFL. He is not a top level, quick twitch athlete which could hinder his ability to play well off the ball out in space as a linebacker at the next level. Overall, Kirlew is likely going to be a late round pick by a team that plays a 34 scheme in the hope that he can make the transition to playing rush-linebacker. He will likely end up as a backup rush-linebacker who contributes as a pass rusher and as a coverage man on special teams

233.)  Arizona Cardinals
Jim Dray, TE, Stanford

Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 246

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Dray was brought in to provide inline blocking for Arizona's power running game, which will now feature Beanie Wells.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Dray’s upside is a bit limited because of his average speed, but his size, blocking and soft hands make him an excellent late-round value.  He’s likely to be a reliable reserve, or better, in the NFL.

234.)  Dallas Cowboys
Sean Lissemore, DT, William and Mary
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 298

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: An excellent value for a late round pick, Lissemore is a prototypical block-eating 3-4 defensive end.  He needs to get stronger and develop technique, but he has a shot to make the practice squad with the Cowboys.

235.)  San Diego Chargers
Dedrick Epps, TE, Miami

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 250

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Epps fell down the draft board because of a serious knee injury but could have time to develop behind Antonio Gates.  He also could help with blocking on running downs.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Teams will take a look at Epps’ left knee, which underwent surgery for a torn ACL before the team’s 2008 bowl game.  His blocking ability and length will intrigue scouts enough to consider taking him in the late rounds as a possible reserve with upside.




236.)  Seattle Seahawks
Dexter Davis, DE, Arizona State
Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 244

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A projected situational pass rusher, Davis hopes to add depth to a Seahawks' team that has struggled in recent years with pressuring the QB.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  A tightly wound, college defensive end who projects to rush linebacker in the pros.  Must prove he can handle adjusting to linebacker in the pros and needs to figure out how to translate his workout numbers to the field.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

237.)  Minnesota Vikings

Ryan D'Imperio, LB, Rutgers

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 230

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another high-effort middle linebacker who can play special teams.  A disappointing senior season dropped his stock significantly.  Lack of speed and ability to fight off blocks will prevent him from being a starter in the NFL.  

238.)  Indianapolis Colts

Ricardo Mathews, DE, Cincinnati

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 294

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Mathews projects to defensive tackle in the Colts' one-gap, upfield, penetrating defensive system.  A smart player who provides his team with energy and effort, he could make the practice squad on a team even as talented as the Colts. 

GM Jr’s scouting report:   Mathews is a decent athlete who has enough positives to bring to training camp, but not enough to be drafted. He is a squatty body player that when he is playing hard and low, is a force. But he tends to come off the ball high, expose his chest and gets stalemated. He is good for 2 or 3 plays, then he gets tired and stays blocked. He has enough natural strength to hold the point of attack versus the run at him, but more often than not, he will miss with his hands off the ball, turn his shoulders and give up his body. He will end up on the ground and is blocked with ease. When he does stay square, he has the lateral quickness and strength to play off the block, shed with strong hands and slide down the line to make the tackle. He is a good wrap up tackler who will put all his force into the ball carrier to get him on the ground. Mathews does not play with much awareness and will get out of position too often. He is not a threat as a pass rusher. He lacks any type of pass rush moves but the bull rush. He ends up standing around the line of scrimmage more times than not as a pass rusher. Mathews will get into training camp for a NFL team, but he will have a hard time making a NFL roster. 

239.)  New Orleans Saints

Sean Canfield, QB, Oregon State

Ht: 6’ 3 ¾” Wt: 223

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Canfield is going to the perfect situation in New Orleans.  He doesn't appear to have the physical tools necessary to be a starting quarterback in the NFL but his intelligent decision making and anticipation make him a suitable back up candidate.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Inexperienced, soft-armed south-paw who needs to play in a dink-and-dunk West Coast offense where he can make a living off play-action and will need to be surrounded by a strong offensive line and talented skill players to be serviceable. Could battle for a No. 3 QB job if he really works at it.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Better able to avoid pass rushers after dropping 20 pounds last offseason, Canfield emerged as one of the hottest senior prospects.  He rode that to a Senior Bowl invite, but his struggles there to drive the ball consistently outside the hashes could relegate him to a West Coast offense.

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.