EMQB's Fantasy Sleepers - AFC East

I love fantasy football. I really like winning (I have some sort of allergic reaction to losing). Here is my sleeper player for each NFL team. I'll be going division by division and giving my reasons for watching these players closely through training camp and the regular season. Not that my reasons will be any good, but since you're here......

Miami Dolphins - Davone Bess, WR - The acquisition of Brandon Marshall means one thing: the Dolphins are looking to throw the ball more. Bess is a great slot receiver and could be a monster in points per reception leagues. He will have a legitimate shot at 100 receptions and a chance to score more touchdowns than the 2 total he has scored in his two NFL seasons. If there is an injury in the Dolphins' receiving corps, his value will be much higher.  Bess is a safe pick and should be a great steal in the late rounds.

New York Jets - David Clowney, WR - The trades for Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards have bumped the pre-season star Clowney down the depth chart and out of fantasy owners' minds. While he does has an uphill fight, Clowney could be the one to capitalize on an injury or inconsistent play by the receivers ahead of him. Clowney has blazing speed but hasn't had the chance to show it in the regular season because of his own injury issues. Clowney is not draftable at this point but should be on fantasy owners' radars if the right situation arises.

New England Patriots - Brandon Tate, WR - Tate is not a polished route runner and has had knee problems that have prevented him from being an impact receiver at the college and NFL level. He has first round physical talent, and the Patriots are in bad need of an outside threat opposite Randy Moss. Tate is my favorite to win that job if he can stay healthy. He also is a huge threat in the return game and could add a touchdown or two in that department. You will need to pay close attention to the depth chart as the pre-season comes to a close, but if your draft is early in the preseason, take the risk on a guy like Tate with one of your last picks. He has big time potential in that offense.

Buffalo Bills - Shawn Nelson, TE - Nelson has the most potential out of this group of players to become a starter this season. The problem is Buffalo struggled mightly to move the ball last season and may do so again this season. Mike Mayock was big on Nelson's receiving capabilities coming into the League last season. Buffalo's other tight end options (Derek Schouman, Jonathan Stupar, and Joe Klopfenstein) are not threats in the passing game. C.J. Spiller may help to open up the passing game, and the Bills are in serious need of playmakers, so I expect Nelson to win the starting tight end job. Nelson should be a late round pick or priority bye week replacement in leagues that require a tight end.


We will be going over the AFC North tomorrow and trying to find the gems in a division shifting from run oriented offenses to a more wide open game. 






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.

One Question Leads To Another

The hot topic in NFL news this last week has been the question Miami Dolphins' G.M. Jeff Ireland asked new Dallas Cowboys' wide receiver Dez Bryant during a pre-draft interview: "Is your mother a prostitute?" will forever go down in NFL infamy.

I don't think it was an appropriate comment in any context.  However, for the sake of journalistic integrity (of which I have none), I wasn't there and do not know the exact situation.

The NFL is well-known for objectifying players. They are viewed as commidities and are discarded with ease. This incident shines a light on a much bigger problem. It is safe to assume that the question during Bryant's interview is not the worst question that a prospect has ever been asked.

The rising contracts and available resources for NFL rookies has helped to further this attitude. With the top picks getting coached on interviews and receiving the top salaries in the entire League, the pressure has been put on NFL general managers to get production out of their draft picks or quickly be replaced. The employment world outside of the NFL is no different.  A $40 per hour employee is going to be scrutinized in the interview process much more than a $10 an hour employee.

These types of interviewing methods are accepted by the prospective draftees because of the money at stake. The NFL minimum for rookies is $285,000 and that is an exceptional salary in any industry. They view the chance to play in the NFL and make a great salary as far outweighing being treated in way that we might believe to be degrading or dehumanizing. The players have the choice to not be subjected to this type of behavior and enter the regular work world like the rest of us (where you can be treated poorly in also) or to deal with the scrutiny of the NFL.

The NFL has proposed to cut the rising cost of rookie salaries by about 75% and reduce the lengths of their contract from 5-6 years to 3 years.  (I brought up the subject in a previous post.) This would solve the problem of the teams being tied to busts with long term contracts and big money.

This change wouldn't effect the overall attitude of NFL toward the treatment of players, but could change the paranoia and anxiety related to paying huge salaries to top prospects with issues like Bryant. The interview process would not be as important because the player would be more disposable.

The ugly side of the NFL has shown its face. Now the NFL needs to figure out how to put some makeup on it.



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.

Miami Dolphins 2010 Draft Review

The Dolphins could have easily snagged three starters with the first three picks. Jared Odrik was the most talked about 3-4 defensive end in the pre draft process and is a hard-nosed player that won't be kept off the field. Koa Misi was an intriguing outside rusher prospect, and Miami was sure to select him in the second. If he can start, he can fill a major need for the team. John Jerry, the brother of Atlanta Falcons' defensive tackle Peria Jerry,  could play at right guard because he is an excellent run blocker and proficient in pass blocking. Nolan Caroll and Reshad Jones were added to give the secondary depth. Though the Dolphins didn't add any big names at high profile positions, they definitely added quality and depth to their overall team.


Round 1, Pick 28

Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State

Ht: 6’ 5” Wt: 304

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Odrick's conversion to a 3-4 defensive end is thought to be the best possible position for him.  Miami is looking to upgrade their defensive presence after several off season losses, and Odrick fills a great need.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Big, versatile, athletic defensive tackle with flexibility and quickness to play the three-technique in a four-man front where he can slant, stunt and penetrate. Lack of base strength and inconsistent pad level could lessen interest from odd-front defenses seeking fenceposts, but will also warrant interest as a five-technique and overall versatility adds to his value.

NFL projection: Late first-round pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Odrick has the size, strength, instincts, & athletic ability to consider as an early contributor for an NFL team as a rookie.  He has an angular, slightly higher-cut frame with adequate arm length.  He is more of a straight-line athlete, who struggles with his lateral quickness & agility on the move.  He has outstanding initial quickness at the snap, but taps-out early in his long pursuit.  He plays very smart, aware & physical in all situations.  He aligns as the 3-technique DT in base & as the NT in their 3-DL sub package.  He is double-teamed on nearly every play as a run defender.  He has excellent functional strength at the POA, especially against a single blocker.  However, he tends to play up on his toes & turns his shoulders too often in his play, making him easier, to wash down inside.  He has very quick, strong hands,  & shows the ability to make an arm tackle while engaged with a blocker.  Despite having limited long range, he plays physical with a high motor in pursuit to the SL & downfield.  As an interior pass rusher, he shows the strength & power to push the pocket back to disrupt the QB.  He is able to knock balls down along the LOS.  He lacks the special speed & close ability to win off the edge of an OT.  He struggles to counter-back & change direction quickly on stunts/twists.  Overall, he is a solid pro prospect with some limitations, which will keep him from being an elite starter.  He best fits as a 5-tech DE for a team that runs a ¾ defensive scheme or as a 2-Gap DT in a 43 scheme.  He is a better pro prospect than either Alex Magee (3^rd round-#67-INPU/KC) or Matthew Shaughnessy (3^rdround-#71-WIUN/OAK) form last year’s draft.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Odrick displayed better effort and consistency as a senior.  His strength and athleticism makes him an intriguing tackle prospect.  With the premium NFL scouts put on defensive lineman, it would be surprising to see him still on the board after the top 40 picks.

Round 2, Pick 40

Koa Misi, OLB, Utah

Ht: 6’ 2 5/8” Wt:  251

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Miami was in desperate need of OLB after losing Joey Porter and Jason Taylor.  Misi has been a fast riser through the draft process, and the Dolphins feel he can provide a pass rush immediately.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Played with his hand in the dirt for the Utes but projects as a hybrid rush linebacker in a “30” front in the pros. Requires some polish, but has been compared to Chargers 2009 first- rounder Larry English, and Misi’s competitive, high-intensity football temperament gives evaluators comfort that he will develop into a solid pro.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Maybe the Utes’ most gifted athlete, Misi is quick enough to chase down backs and strong enough to hold his ground on the edge, making him an ideal 3-4 outside linebacker.  Add in his toughness and instincts, and he’s a potential top 100 pick for any team using any base scheme. 

Round 3, Pick 73

John Jerry, G, Mississippi

Ht: 6’ 5 3/8” Wt: 328

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Many feel that Jerry was the best guard prospect in this draft behind Mike Iupati.  Jerry is a powerful guard who can instantly help the Miami run game.  He could surprise by winning the right guard job and be a cornerstone of the Dolphins' offensive line for many years to come.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Continually shed weight and worked out better than expected at the Combine. A big, power player who can knock defenders off the ball and would be better inside than out- side. How quickly he can adapt mentally to the pro game and handle adjustments will determine his success. Ability to mash defenders in the run game could be offset by mental mistakes and blown assignments in pass protection. Could benefit from the external motivation of having a weight clause in his contract.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The brother of Atlanta Falcons 2009 first-round pick DT Peria Jerry, John was a two-time All-SEC pick.  The 6-5, 332-pounder has the size NFL evaluators are looking for and shows surprising agility for a big man.  He started the 2007 season at right guard, which is where NFL scouts feel he might protect best in the pros. 

119.)  Miami Dolphins
A.J. Edds, LB, Iowa
Ht: 6' 4" Wt:  246

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A speed prospect, Edds is probably being brought in to play on passing downs for the Dolphins.  Not overly physical, he will struggle against the run.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Slender-framed collegiate “Leo” linebacker who was not in position to make a lot of impact plays. Is not an explosive athlete but moves well enough to function and offers length to fit in a “30” front. Smart, steady player who at worst should help in nickel situations and con- tribute on special teams.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

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.

163.)  Miami Dolphins
Reshad Jones, S, Georgia
Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 214

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Slated to go a round or two higher, Jones inconsistency and lack of discipline on the field cost him.  The Dolphin are taking a flier on him hoping he turns the corner and can out play his draft position.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A talented, inconsistent, enigmatic safety whose freelancing and head-hunting exploits can be detrimental to a defense, Jones is a stray bullet in need of refinement to unlock his considerable potential. Has ample ability and potential to make plays if the light comes on.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

212.)  Miami Dolphins

Chris McCoy, DL, Middle Tennessee State

 Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 244

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCoy will be converted by the Dolphins to a 3-4 outside linebacker and given a chance to develop as a pass rusher.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Had a solid showing after being added late to the East-West Shrine Game and has intriguing measurables to warrant developing as an edge rusher or projected rush linebacker.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

252.)  Miami Dolphins

Austin Spitler, LB, Ohio State

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 243

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Spitler is a special teams' standout and can play inside or outside linebacker.  This versatility could help him earn a spot on the Dolphin's roster.

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 240 - 254

240.)  Indianapolis Colts
Kavell Conner, LB, Clemson
Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 242

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Perfect Colts' linebacker:  quick and compact, flies to the football.  Will probably be brought in to play special teams.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Undersized, active, run-and-hit linebacker best suited for the weak side in a one-gap defense, though he might bring the most value as an energetic special-teams player.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

241.)  Tennessee Titans

David Howard, DT, Brown

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 293

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An intriguing 3-4 defensive end conversion prospect, Howard has excellent measurables.  He uses his hands well and plays with intensity.  He's the first Ivy League defensive lineman to be drafted since 1998.

242.)  Pittsburgh Steelers

Doug Worthington, DT, Ohio State

Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 292

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Steelers will convert him to defensive tackle in their 3-4 front.  Could make the roster as a rotational player.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Size prospect who might warrant some interest as a developmental five-technique or inside run defender. Could compete for a job in a rotation and has the makeup that will make him more difficult to cut.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

243.)  Philadelphia Eagles

Jeff Owens, DT, Georgia

Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 304

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A good space-eating defensive tackle, he joins a deep Eagles' defensive line.  Owens will be brought in to see if he can play up to his potential but may have a difficult time making the team.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Tested very well at the Combine, but it did not translate to the field as a senior. Was coming off injury and showed better late in the season. Has lined up as both nose tackle and three technique in a “40” front, but lacks the hip flexion, burst and bend desired to rush the passer and would be best suited occupying blocks. Does not play to his workout numbers and figures to be overdrafted.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

244.)  Philadelphia Eagles

Kurt Coleman, S, Ohio State

Ht: 5' 10" Wt: 192

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Coleman is a classic late round special teams ace.  He has a great chance of sticking on the roster because he could contribute at safety and play full-time on special teams.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Undersized, self-motivated, try-hard overachiever who lacks the strength, athletic ability and range ideally desired at the next level. Will have to stand out on special teams to stick. Jim Leonhard’s ability to earn a starting job in the pros could help his draft cause, but could always be challenged to hold a job.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

245.)  Seattle Seahawks

Jameson Konz, WR, Kent State

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 227

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An athletic 'tweener tight end who needs to step up his game at the next level, Konz could cause match up problems if he learns the pro-passing game.

246.)  Indianapolis Colts 

Ray Fisher, DB, Indiana

Ht: 5' 9" Wt: 185

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  You can never count out a late round Colts' pick as they find ways to get their draft picks and free agents to contribute to their team.  Fisher is the perfect example of the type of smart, disciplined prospect that the Colts' value.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   More-quick-than-fast converted receiver who showed good football aptitude by adjusting to a position change as a senior. Kick-off-return ability will be his meal ticket and could eventually help in dime package.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

247.)  New England Patriots

Brandon Deaderick, DE, Alabama

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 314

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Patriots are looking to replace the loss of Richard Seymour and could be looking to fill the void by committee.  Deaderick is another example of a 4-3 defensive tackle with a possible future as a 3-4 defensive end.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Did the dirty work on a talented defense, showing the type of size, functional strength and versatility to attract interest from teams running 4-3 or 3-4 alignments. Likely will command the most interest from a “30” front as a five-technique and fits best inside on the nose for a “40” front.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

248.)  New England Patriots

Kade Weston, DT, Georgia

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 317

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Obviously Deaderick will have competition in rookie camp:  Weston is the same type of conversion player who's worth a late round flier.  Weston never played up to his potential at Georgia.  But the Patriots will give him a look and see if defensive end suits him better.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A teaser who did not distinguish himself until the latter portion of his senior season, but has an NFL body, shows flashes and has a chance to be a better pro than college player if the light comes on. Has size to line up at nose tackle in a one-gap scheme and the length and base strength desired in a “30” front. Development could be aided by the presence of a strong veteran who could take him under his wing.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

249.)  Carolina Panthers

Robert McClain, DB, Connecticut

Ht: 5' 9" Wt: 194

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: McClain is a solid but not spectacular player who's impact should be in special teams.  He has the opportunity to develop into a contributing corner and may have to start out on the practice squad.  


GM Jr's scouting report:  McClain is a first-year starter at CB to the boundary for the Huskies in 2009.  He also plays some NKL CB & returns punts for them this season.  He has a short, strong build with good arm length, upper/lower body thickness  & definition, & limited growth potential to develop for the position at the NFL level. He is a very tough, physical, & competitive player in all phases of both defense and on special teams.  He is an aggressive run support player & tackler near the LOS.  He can also pressure the QB & fill quickly against the run as a blitzer.  He is a quicker-than-fast overall athlete for the position.  He has quick feet in his pedal, but is a really short-stepper in his play.  He has decent hips in transition from his pedal, but lacks that top burst to close of elite prospects for the position.  He is often in very good m/m coverage position, but simply cannot make a play on the ball due to his lack of size and better than average speed.  He is an obvious liability on vertical plays downfield and in the red zone.  He is quick reactor as an underneath zone defender.  He will jump throws based on his route-recognition skills & ability read the QB's eyes quickly.  He has very good ball reactions & production when playing the ball in front of him.  Overall, he is a limited pro prospect due to his lack of heigh, which will never change  However, his is instinctive, physical, & aggressive enough to be an effective role player at the NFL level.  He has the ability to compete to be the NKL CB, PR man, and core member of the special teams for a team in his rookie season.  However, he lacks the physical and athletic upside to ever be a productive starter.  he reminds me most of former Eagle DeJuan Tribble, who was a 6th round pick by the Charger back in 2008.

250.)  New England Patriots

Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 214

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Robinson is a prospect with upside and has some starting potential, much like another New England Patriot quarterback Tom Brady.  He will need time to develop and perhaps could make New England's practice squad.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Robinson showed a stronger arm at the Senior Bowl than scouts had given him credit for.  He doesn’t have the elite accuracy downfield to warrant a selection in the top 50, but boasts enough to go along with reasonable arm strength and good mobility to warrant consideration in the middle rounds. 

251.)  Oakland Raiders 
Stevie Brown, DB, Michigan
Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 212

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Brown played out of position last season at Michigan which limited his ability to show his true coverage skills.  The Raiders pulled the trigger and could get the steal of the draft.  

252.)  Miami Dolphins

Austin Spitler, LB, Ohio State

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 243

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Spitler is a special teams' standout and can play inside or outside linebacker.  This versatility could help him earn a spot on the Dolphin's roster.

253.)  Tampa Bay Bucs

Erik Lorig, DE, Stanford

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 281

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Lorig is a over-achiever that could make the team and be used as a rotational player.  The Buccaneers depend on their front four to create pressure and - through sheer will - Lorig can create pressure at times.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   All-out, energetic base end who leaves everything on the field and has enough disruptive ability to hold down a roster spot and bring value in the locker room with his intangibles. Might have some value kicking inside as a nickel rusher.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

254.)  St. Louis Rams

Josh Hull, LB, Penn State

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 237

EMQB’s analysis on the pick: Hull is a better athlete than most 7th round picks.  Hull will be an excellent special teams player and has a "do anything attitude".  Hull will make an NFL team this fall.

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.