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.






 


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Kansas City Chiefs 2010 Draft Review

The Chiefs are quickly becoming the Patriot-esque organization that Scott Pioli envisioned when he came over from New England. Berry, McCluster, Arenas, Asamoah, and Moeaki are all expected to have major roles with the team next season. Berry was the best player available because of his ability to be a physical tackler and play zone and man coverage. McCluster will be a receiver and returner, who could run gadget plays from the backfield. Arenas is an excellent technician and should be able to win the nickel job. Asamoah is a perfect right guard candidate. Kendrick Lewis and Cameron Sheffield are nice developmental prospects and could make it on to the active roster. The Chiefs addressed their biggest needs and found quality NFL ready players at the top of the draft. 

Round 1, Pick 5

Eric Berry, S/CB, Tennessee

Ht: 5’ 11 5/8” Wt: 211

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  With the left tackle and quarterback positions secure, the Chiefs selected the best player available.  Berry is a dynamic playmaker and should be able to help the Chiefs defensive backfield immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  One of the more gifted safeties to emerge from the college ranks in the last decade, Berry is an impact, ballhawking secondary leader with a special combination of athletic ability and instincts. Plays with a physical, old- school mentality but has superb coverage capabilities desired in the new generation of safeties. Can roam center field, bang in the box or line up in the slot and handle man and zone coverage. Bulked up prior to the Combine without detracting from his speed or agility, and outstanding workout solidified his standing as the top defensive back in the draft.

NFL projection: Top-10 pick

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Berry is an interesting prospect because he was an elite high school cornerback who was switched to safety at Tennessee, but from evaluating his play he is best suited to make the switch back to cornerback to become the top level player he has the athleticism to be.  I was shocked when evaluating Berry at how few plays he was consistently involved in from a safety alignment, but was clearly more productive when he came closer to the LOS and lined up and covered the “Slot” receiver in M/M coverage.  Overall, Berry is going to be drafted in a 1^st round because he has rare athleticism but I am very confident that if he is played at safety he will struggle with consistency and will not be highly productive.  While he has everything it takes to be an elite cornerback once he learns the nuances and improves his footwork/technique.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Because of less-than-ideal size, some scouts view Berry as a potential NFL cornerback.  While he possesses the unique blend of agility, straight-line speed and ball skills for that position, considering the impact players such as Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu, Darren Sharper and Brian Dawkins have had in recent seasons, the value of safeties has never been higher. 

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

Round 2, Pick 36 

Dexter McCluster, RB, Mississippi

Ht: 5’ 8 ¾” Wt: 172

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCluster is a game changer and an excellent receiver.  He is not nearly big enough to be a full time running back but the fact that he returns kicks and punts, can catch the ball, and can take a few carries out of the backfield make him extremely valuable. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A diminutive, big-play maker whose receiving skills really stood out at the Senior Bowl and left NFL brass excited about his potential as an instant contributor at slot receiver. However, he showed the second half of the season that he could be every bit as effective in the backfield, possessing elite burst and acceleration to become a game changer as a dynamic, complementary back. Brings additional value as a return specialist, and his ability to contribute readily at three positions could enhance his draft stock.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  McCluster’s diminutive size might keep some teams away, but considering his combination of agility, straight-line speed and versatility, most NFL teams will find room for a playmaker of his caliber.  He can be utilized as a runner, receiver and return man, similar to the Vikings’ Percy Harvin. 

Round 2, Pick 50 

Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama

Ht: 5’ 8 5/8”  Wt:  197

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another player who's not as great an athlete as a team's would like, Arenas is a skilled and smart corner.  Kansas City needs immediate impact players, and Arenas could step into the line up and start immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Compactly built, strong, competitive, more-quick-than-fast cover-2 corner who plays bigger than his size. Has good football sense, plays physical and will not be intimidat- ed. Ronde Barber-type who brings added value as a punt returner.

NFL projection: Third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Arenas’ lack of height and pure speed is a concern to scouts.  He lacks elite straight-line speed and as such will struggle outside in a man-to-man scheme.  How fast he runs in the 40-yard dash could determine whether he’s a second- or fourth-round selection. 

Round 3, Pick 68 

Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois

Ht:  6’ 4” Wt:  305

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Though he is not an elite athlete, Asamoah has the aggressive style of play that coaches love.  He may not come in and make an immediate impact but will eventually become a contributor to Kansas City's offensive line.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A stiff, upper-body blocker who will enamor evaluators with his toughness and can deceive a trained eye when he is facing lesser competition and everything lines up the right way for him, but is not naturally big, plays short- armed, is extremely stiff and will struggle to match up against quickness and power in the pros. Will be drafted early and asked to start out of the gate likely by a team employing a zone protection scheme, but the team that drafts him too early could be looking to replace him, and he’ll struggle to be more than a serviceable pro. Could be best at center.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  A three-year starter at right guard, Asamoah’s size, strength and excellent mobility makes him a coveted interior line prospect versatile enough to line up on either side of the formation.  In a somewhat thin class, he should hear his name called in the top 60.

Round 3, Pick 93 

Tony Moeaki, TE, Iowa

Ht: 6’ 3” Wt: 245

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another prospect that fell down the boards because of medical issues, Moeaki has the ability to become an impact player in the NFL.  Raw in technique, he will need time to develop to make an impact for the Chiefs. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Really came on as a senior and graded out like a second-round talent when he was healthy, flashing big-time receiving skills and the ability to function as a blocker. However, the inability to stay healthy for a full season is very concerning, and his injury history could push down his draft value. Would be best suited in a situational/backup-type role where he could take limited reps and preserve his body.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  When healthy, Moeaki’s strong blocking and ability to make spectacular catches make it easy to picture him as an NFL starter.  But those durability issues will not disappear during the draft process no matter how well he catches the all or runs during workouts. 

136.)  Kansas City Chiefs

Kendrick Lewis, S, Mississippi

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 198

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another player expected to make an impact on special teams, Lewis is a tough player that overcomes his deficiencies by putting out great effort.  Will probably never be more than a solid reserve safety.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Try-hard, more-quick-than-fast former receiver who made strides as a senior, but quickness is just average and speed and athletic deficiencies were too glaring at the Combine not to trouble decision makers. Could have to stick in the box and make a mark on special teams to make it.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

142.)  Kansas City Chiefs
Cameron Sheffield, DE, Troy

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 257

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Sheffield played with his hand in the dirt at defensive end for Troy, but with his size, he projected to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.  While it will take him some time to develop all of the skills needed to be a starter, he has that type of potential.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Was miscast as a collegiate right end. Is not explosive and lacks take-on strength but helped himself with a solid Senior Bowl showing and moves well enough to convert to strong-side linebacker in a 4-3 front. Could warrant interest as a developmental rush linebacker.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

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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Round 5, Pick 142 - 146

142.)  Kansas City Chiefs
Cameron Sheffield, DE, Troy

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 257

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Sheffield played with his hand in the dirt at defensive end for Troy, but with his size, he projected to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.  While it will take him some time to develop all of the skills needed to be a starter, he has that type of potential.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Was miscast as a collegiate right end. Is not explosive and lacks take-on strength but helped himself with a solid Senior Bowl showing and moves well enough to convert to strong-side linebacker in a 4-3 front. Could warrant interest as a developmental rush linebacker.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

143.)  Jacksonville Jaguars
Larry Hart, DE, Central Arkansas

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 246

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another hustle type pass rusher, Hart can make an impact on special teams and as a situational pass rusher for the Jags.  Looking to step up their pass rush, the Jaguars have focused on their defensive front in this draft.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Productive, undersized, small-school leverage rusher who played with his hand on the ground in college. Did not receive an invitation to the Combine despite posting two strong seasons at UCA but runs well and flashes enough pass-rush ability to warrant looks as a 3-4 outside linebacker or 4-3 rush end.

NFL projection: Fifth- to sixth-round pick. 

144.)  Houston Texans
Sherrick McManis, CB, Northwestern

Ht: 5' 10" Wt: 195

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McManis is a perfect candidate for a nickel or dime corner as he is effective in short areas.  He possibly could play special teams and also could be converted to a safety by the Texans.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Helped himself with a solid senior season, showing enough versatility and physicality to warrant consideration as a zone corner and developmental free safety prospect.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

145.)  Miami Dolphins
Nolan Carroll, CB, Maryland

Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 204

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Carroll is a prospect with high upside as he is a big athlete and the type of corner that the Dolphins covet.  The Dolphins like to blitz so his size and speed along with his experience in press coverage could help him get on the field in passing packages.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Played in a new defensive system predicated on press-man coverage as a senior before injury struck. Is a very raw, straight-linish converted receiver with starter-caliber size, length and explosive movement skills but is still developing a feel for the cornerback position and lacks production on the ball. Developmental prospect with upside if the light ever comes on.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

146.)  San Diego Chargers
Cam Thomas, DT, Maryland

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 330

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Thomas is a run stuffing nose tackle that will take over for Jamal Williams in the middle of the Chargers' defense.  A powerful specimen, he has a chance to become a starter in his rookie season.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Thomas was helped by a strong week of practice at the Senior Bowl, adding to his value.  Scouts are intrigued by his size, power and position versatility to be a valued run-stuffer despite marginal college production.  His best position will likely be nose guard, a valued role in 3-4 defenses.  Clogging running lanes and leaving easy opportunities for his teammates to be productive could be where Thomas’ value lies.  

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 132 - 136

132.)  St. Louis Rams
Michael Hoomanawanui, TE, Illinois
Ht 6' 4" Wt 264

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  This pick was made with the Rams obviously looking for depth in their tight end position.  Though he seems like a strictly blocking type tight end, Hoomanawanui can probably provide goal line and short yardage receiving aid.  His history of injuries is troubling though.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Battled through injury in an inefficient offense as a senior, but has the size and reliable short-to-intermediate receiving skills to become an ideal No. 2 tight end.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

133.)  Seattle Seahawks
Kam Chancellor, S, Virginia Tech

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 231

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An in the box safety much like Taylor Mays, Chancellor might not have the coverage skills to be a starter in the NFL.  His impact should come on special teams, and he could serve as a short term starter if injury thrust him into the starting line up.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Looks the part and has rare size, but few large safeties succeed without exceptional athletic ability, and Chancellor’s tight hips and stiff movement could force a position change to weak-side linebacker.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

134.)  Philadelphia Eagles

Ricky Sapp, DE, Clemson

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 252

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Sapp is an intriguing prospect in the fact that he has the physical skills to get the quarterback as an edge rusher in a 3-4 defense.  The reason why he lasted as long as he did is his production never matched his measurables.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Sapp had only 17.5 career sacks, but his explosive first step makes him one of the coveted pass rushers in the draft.  He’ll struggle to add the weight necessary to remain at defensive end in a 4-3 scheme and isn’t experienced enough for most teams running this alignment to project him to linebacker.  He’s best suited to be a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. 

135.)  Atlanta Falcons 

Dominique Franks, CB, Oklahoma

Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 194

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Franks is an instant impact player on special teams and could develop into a nickel or dime corner but provides excellent value because of his versatility.  He doesn't have the physical skills or numbers that one might desire but is a solid football player, none the less. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Bucked the trend that has seen underclassmen return to OU for their senior seasons and would have benefitted from another year of seasoning. Tape résumé is less than appetizing and did not light up the Combine. Brings value as a return man, but timid football temperament, overall inconsistency and mental deficiencies cannot be overlooked. Will bring the most value as a returner.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick. 

136.)  Kansas City Chiefs

Kendrick Lewis, S, Mississippi

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 198

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another player expected to make an impact on special teams, Lewis is a tough player that overcomes his deficiencies by putting out great effort.  Will probably never be more than a solid reserve safety.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Try-hard, more-quick-than-fast former receiver who made strides as a senior, but quickness is just average and speed and athletic deficiencies were too glaring at the Combine not to trouble decision makers. Could have to stick in the box and make a mark on special teams to make it.

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 93 - Kansas City Chiefs - Tony Moeaki

Tony Moeaki, TE, Iowa

Ht: 6’ 3” Wt: 245

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another prospect that fell down the boards because of medical issues, Moeaki has the ability to become an impact player in the NFL.  Raw in technique, he will need time to develop to make an impact for the Chiefs. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Really came on as a senior and graded out like a second-round talent when he was healthy, flashing big-time receiving skills and the ability to function as a blocker. However, the inability to stay healthy for a full season is very concerning, and his injury history could push down his draft value. Would be best suited in a situational/backup-type role where he could take limited reps and preserve his body.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  When healthy, Moeaki’s strong blocking and ability to make spectacular catches make it easy to picture him as an NFL starter.  But those durability issues will not disappear during the draft process no matter how well he catches the all or runs during workouts. 

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 68 - Kansas City Chiefs - Jon Asamoah

Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois

Ht:  6’ 4” Wt:  305

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Though he is not an elite athlete, Asamoah has the aggressive style of play that coaches love.  He may not come in and make an immediate impact but will eventually become a contributor to Kansas City's offensive line.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A stiff, upper-body blocker who will enamor evaluators with his toughness and can deceive a trained eye when he is facing lesser competition and everything lines up the right way for him, but is not naturally big, plays short- armed, is extremely stiff and will struggle to match up against quickness and power in the pros. Will be drafted early and asked to start out of the gate likely by a team employing a zone protection scheme, but the team that drafts him too early could be looking to replace him, and he’ll struggle to be more than a serviceable pro. Could be best at center.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  A three-year starter at right guard, Asamoah’s size, strength and excellent mobility makes him a coveted interior line prospect versatile enough to line up on either side of the formation.  In a somewhat thin class, he should hear his name called in the top 60.

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 50 - Kansas City Chiefs - Javier Arenas

Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama

Ht: 5’ 8 5/8”  Wt:  197

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another player who's not as great an athlete as a team's would like, Arenas is a skilled and smart corner.  Kansas City needs immediate impact players, and Arenas could step into the line up and start immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Compactly built, strong, competitive, more-quick-than-fast cover-2 corner who plays bigger than his size. Has good football sense, plays physical and will not be intimidat- ed. Ronde Barber-type who brings added value as a punt returner.

NFL projection: Third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Arenas’ lack of height and pure speed is a concern to scouts.  He lacks elite straight-line speed and as such will struggle outside in a man-to-man scheme.  How fast he runs in the 40-yard dash could determine whether he’s a second- or fourth-round selection. 

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 36 - Kansas City Chiefs - Dexter McCluster

Dexter McCluster, RB, Mississippi

Ht: 5’ 8 ¾” Wt: 172

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCluster is a game changer and an excellent receiver.  He is not nearly big enough to be a full time running back but the fact that he returns kicks and punts, can catch the ball, and can take a few carries out of the backfield make him extremely valuable. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A diminutive, big-play maker whose receiving skills really stood out at the Senior Bowl and left NFL brass excited about his potential as an instant contributor at slot receiver. However, he showed the second half of the season that he could be every bit as effective in the backfield, possessing elite burst and acceleration to become a game changer as a dynamic, complementary back. Brings additional value as a return specialist, and his ability to contribute readily at three positions could enhance his draft stock.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  McCluster’s diminutive size might keep some teams away, but considering his combination of agility, straight-line speed and versatility, most NFL teams will find room for a playmaker of his caliber.  He can be utilized as a runner, receiver and return man, similar to the Vikings’ Percy Harvin. 

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 1, Pick 5 - Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Berry

www.nfl.com

Eric Berry, S/CB, Tennessee

Ht: 5’ 11 5/8” Wt: 211

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  With the left tackle and quarterback positions secure, the Chiefs selected the best player available.  Berry is a dynamic playmaker and should be able to help the Chiefs defensive backfield immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  One of the more gifted safeties to emerge from the college ranks in the last decade, Berry is an impact, ballhawking secondary leader with a special combination of athletic ability and instincts. Plays with a physical, old- school mentality but has superb coverage capabilities desired in the new generation of safeties. Can roam center field, bang in the box or line up in the slot and handle man and zone coverage. Bulked up prior to the Combine without detracting from his speed or agility, and outstanding workout solidified his standing as the top defensive back in the draft.

NFL projection: Top-10 pick

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Berry is an interesting prospect because he was an elite high school cornerback who was switched to safety at Tennessee, but from evaluating his play he is best suited to make the switch back to cornerback to become the top level player he has the athleticism to be.  I was shocked when evaluating Berry at how few plays he was consistently involved in from a safety alignment, but was clearly more productive when he came closer to the LOS and lined up and covered the “Slot” receiver in M/M coverage.  Overall, Berry is going to be drafted in a 1^st round because he has rare athleticism but I am very confident that if he is played at safety he will struggle with consistency and will not be highly productive.  While he has everything it takes to be an elite cornerback once he learns the nuances and improves his footwork/technique.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Because of less-than-ideal size, some scouts view Berry as a potential NFL cornerback.  While he possesses the unique blend of agility, straight-line speed and ball skills for that position, considering the impact players such as Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu, Darren Sharper and Brian Dawkins have had in recent seasons, the value of safeties has never been higher. 

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.