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.
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New England Patriots 2010 Draft Review

The Patriots massaged the draft board and filled needs while bringing in talented players. Devin McCourty is a multi-dimensional player who could start at corner and return kicks. Rob Gronkowski is a tight end who can strecth the seam and helps fill the void left by Ben Watson. Jermaine Cunningham and Brandon Spikes will have major roles in the defense as veterans have moved on from the inside linebacker and defensive end positions. Taylor Price and Aaron Hernandez were probably pleasant surprises at the positions where they were available, and the Patriots took advantage of the opportunity to draft the them. Mesko is an NFL level punter and could win the starting job. Zac Robinson could stick around as a third quarterback. The Patriots are going to get some good football players out of this draft. They brought in enough guys to make sure of that fact.


Round 1, Pick 27

Devin McCourty, CB/KR, Rutgers

Ht: 5’ 10 ¾” Wt: 196

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  McCourty is a perfect Patriots' player:  smart, versatile, and physical.  The Patriots struggled on defense last year, and I believe many of their draft picks will be defensive players in this draft.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Lean, athletic, quick-footed cornerback with legit speed, movement skills and explosion to match up at the next level. Ordinary ball skills limit his ceiling, but should be able to contribute readily as a core special-teams player and nickel defender. Low-risk selection with starter potential.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  McCourty is the type of cornerback that you have to be careful not to overlook because of the number of catches he allows, as he has the athleticism, competitiveness, ball skills, and special teams production to be a productive cornerback in the NFL.  While he measures in a basically 5’11, he looks and plays shorter than that.  One thing that is so impressive about McCourty is his ability and willingness to get hands on receiver in “Press” coverage, maintain contact to play physical with receiver throughout route and ball skills to break up passes when he anticipates the pass arriving.  He is a dangerous kickoff returner who gets to full speed very fast, hits the hole quickly and has the speed to take plays the distance.  He flies down the field as a “Gunner” on punt coverage unit and does a very good job of staying under control to either make the tackle in the open field or to slow up returner enough so teammates can make the tackle.  Overall, right now McCourty is a cornerback that is ideally suited to be a #3 cornerback and special teams star, but he has the physical talent to become a very good starter.  He is going to need to improve his backpedal in order to transition quicker so that he can close quicker on passes and must improve his ability breaking up passes he is in position to make a play on.  His elite special teams ability and top level athleticism will give him as much time as he needs as a special teams star and nickel back to try and develop into a starter.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  McCourty has been a major contributor on special teams, averaging 25.1 yards per kick off return, including a touchdown, in 2009 and blocking seven kicks in his career.  That special teams acumen, along with speed and ball skills, makes McCourty likely to be drafted earlier than some expect. 

Round 2, Pick 42

Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona

Ht: 6’ 3 1/8” Wt: 268

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Gronkowski is the play making tight end that the Patriots have been lacking.  If he can come in and stay healthy, he has a chance to help open up the outside of the field for Randy Moss and Wes Welker.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Has never played a full season and durability concerns could hinder his draft status. However, if he proves he can stay healthy and focused, he has the physical tools to develop into a top-tier, all-around tight end.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Blessed with great size, good athleticism and soft hands comma, “Gronk” is a true threat on short and intermediate routes and a better blocker than Gresham or most of the other tight ends in this class.  This all-around performer could sneak into the first round if he can work out for scouts and prove he’s fully recovered from back surgery that sidelined him all of last season. 

Round 2, Pick 53

Jermaine Cunningham, DE, Florida

Ht: 6’ 3 3/8” Wt: 266

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Patriots are in dire need of pass rushing help.  Cunningham could step in and be a situational pass rusher either from the outside linebacker position or play defensive end on third down. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Played on very talented defensive lines during his time in Gainesville and lacks outstanding traits. Could be tried as a rush linebacker in a “30” front, but might fit more comfortably playing over the tight end in a one-gap scheme.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  It might not happen until the middle rounds, but Cunningham will get his chance to reverse the Florida trend of producing highly touted pass rushers, such as Derrick Harvey and Jarvis Moss, who have disappointed in the NFL. 

Round 2, Pick 60

Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida

Ht: 6’ 2 7/8” Wt: 249  

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Despite his slow timed speed, Spikes is an excellent, instinctive football player.  He fits perfectly in New England’s scheme as an inside linebacker and will be able to play immediately. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A better football player than athlete, Spikes is a physical, high-motor linebacker in the mold of Bryan Cox with an intense on- field presence and superb instincts. Lack of foot speed will limit him to playing between the tack- les and will bring the most value to a “30” front given great size and take-on strength.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Some of Spikes’ decline in production has to do with his teammates around him developing while teams did a better job scheming to stop Spikes.  While he’s athletic enough in coverage and as a blitzer that some scouts feel he’ll adjust nicely outside, Spikes’ value lies in his versatility and explosiveness.  He will need to answer questions about his straight-line speed to earn a first-round grade. 

Round 3, Pick 90

Taylor Price, WR, Ohio

Ht: 6’ 0 3/8” Wt: 204

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Price is a prospect with great time speed that does not always transfer to his game play.  He was rumored to be on the rise after an impressive off season.  The Patriots could groom him to be a replacement for Randy Moss as the outside receiver in their offense but Price has a lot of improvements to make before getting to that point.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Slender, tight-hipped, muscled-up vertical receiver whose production was hampered by poor quarterback play, but Price showed well at the Senior Bowl and has elite speed to attract interest.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Price’s speed will get him on the national radar during pre-draft workouts, and added to his performance at the Senor Bowl may convince teams to select him in the second round – a similar path former Western Michigan WR Greg Jennings (Packers) took to the NFL.  

113.)  New England Patriots
Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 245

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  I'm suspicious of the reasons that Hernandez has fallen this far as he was rated to go a round or two higher.  An excellent all-around player, he needs to get stronger and develop his game in certain areas but the Pats, once again, got excellent value out of a fourth-round draft pick. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Not big or strong enough to compete as an inline blocker, Hernandez’s appeal is as a matchup nightmare and he could be moved to H-back.  Blessed with good quickness as a route-runner, surprising strength and balance after the catch and sticky, reliable hands.  He could make an immediate impact.   

150.)  New England Patriots
Zoltan Mesko, P, Michigan
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 235

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  I don't know what I can say about a punter other than if he is drafted in the fifth round, he's probably pretty good.  His left-footed spin provides a different perspective for returners which makes fielding his punts more of a challenge.  He's also big for a punter and might be able to tackle someone in the NFL.  That's why you don't mess with "The Zoltan".  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Big, thick, long-levered lefty with all the tools to be a very effective NFL punter for a long time. Athletic ability, likable personality and experience kicking in inclement weather adds to appeal.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

205.)  New England Patriots
Ted Larsen, OL, North Carolina State
Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 304

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A raw athletic prospect, Larsen needs to learn a position so he can be an effective pro.  Has the skills to become an impact player in the NFL just needs time and excellent coaching which he will get in New England.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Recruited as a defensive tackle, Larsen switched to center at coach Tom O’Brien’s request during 2008 spring drills.  He is still rough around the edges, but Larsen’s strength, tenacity, and above-average mobility make him an intriguing developmental prospect.  

208.)  New England Patriots 
Thomas Welch, OL, Vanderbilt
Ht: 6' 6" Wt: 307

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Patriots continue to stock up on athletic players with big upside.  Welch is a developmental prospect and will need the patience and coaching that the team can offer.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Converted tight end who is still very raw and learning the position and has not yet learned to carry all the weight he has put on in a short time. Has a chance to earn a spot as a backup swing tackle in a zone-slide protection scheme and has some upside to continue developing with physical maturity.

NFL projection: Free agent.

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.

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. 

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.