New Orleans Saints 2010 Draft Review

The Saints are in the position that everyone wants to be in: defending a Super Bowl title. They were also in the position to draft the best player and not for need. Patrick Robinson and Charles Brown will not start for the Saints immediately but could develop into Pro Bowl caliber players. Jimmy Graham is a develomental tight end in the mold of Antonio Gates. Al Woods could receive playing time early on, and Matt Tennant is a good technician who needs to get stronger. The Saints drafted like a team that wants to continue winning and didn't over-reach for need at any point in this draft.


Round 1, Pick 32

Patrick Robinson

Ht: 5’ 11 ¼” Wt: 190

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Robinson has the best change in direction of any corner in this draft.  He needs to work on his technique but he won't be forced to start because he's going to a team with an already talented defensive backfield.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A supremely athletic, gifted corner with the speed and agility to function on an island, Robinson ran slower than expected at the Combine but is considered the most explosive athlete to come out of FSU since Antonio Cromartie. Skill set could interest teams such as the Raiders, Jets and Packers, but lack of discipline and minimal on-the-ball production are reasons for pause.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Robinson is a special cornerback who has outstanding speed and quickness.  He is a good man coverage player who wants to be physical at the line of scrimmage.  Plays with a competitive nature and does not back down from a challenge.  Has descent instincts in coverage and good route awareness.  Has the foot quickness and hip flexibility to handle double moves and still stay in the receiver’s hip pocket.  Will get lazy at times and play off routes almost as if he is baiting the quarterback to throw to his man.  Will play back on his heels and have to take a false step out of his break in zone coverages.  Will close with a burst on short throws in front of him if he has a chance for a big hit or a pass break up.  Has good ability to anticipate the throw and has good ability at closing with a burst.  Average strength as a press cornerback to keep the receiver from getting a free release.  Choppy, short stepper in back pedal, but quick to flip his hips and mirror receiver.  Strong tackler who will throw his shoulder in on ball carrier.  Gives good hustle and will make tackles from the backside.  Wants in on the action.  Has very good ball skills and is a playmaker when he is challenged.  Robinson was clearly the best athlete of the defensive backs at the Senior Bowl – Quickest feet with excellent foot agility and ability to change directions.  Overall, Robinson needs to improve the consistency reading routes, but his playmaking ability, athleticism and competitiveness make me confident in his ability to become a very good starting cornerback in the NFL and should be a 1^st round pick because of it.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Athletic, instinctive and possessing good size, Robinson has the traits teams are looking for in a first-round cornerback – except consistency.  He has all of the natural talent and ability to become a Pro Bowl cornerback, but inconsistent play leaves the door open for Robinson to be a bust.  

Round 2, Pick 64

Charles Brown, OT, USC

Ht: 6’ 5 3/8” Wt: 303

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An extremely athletic tackle, Brown can fill in as a reserve player next season but could develop into a starting left tackle in the near future.  The Saints did not need a tackle but chose to go with value instead.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A long-armed converted tight end in need of continued physical and technical development, Brown improved as a senior, interviewed well at the Combine and has the arm length, athletic ability and bend to start at left tackle. However, his lack of functional strength, grit and toughness are concerns that could keep him from ever reaching his potential. Best fit will likely come in a zone scheme similar to the one used by the Packers, Seahawks or Redskins. Upside will bring him off draft boards considerably higher than he grades out on tape.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  NFL scouts are more frequently looking to converted tight ends as potential left tackles.  Former Baylor standout Jason Smith, the No. 2 overall pick by St. Louis in 2009, is one such example period.  With only two starting seasons under his belt, Brown may not be at the same level as Smith or many of the 2010 elite tackle prospects, but his size and athletic upside will likely earn him a first- or second-round selection come April.


Round 3, Pick 95

Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami

Ht: 6’ 6 ¼” Wt: 260

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Graham is exactly the type of draft pick that a world champion football team can take a risk on.  An inexperienced football player with unlimited upside, Graham could very well be the next Antonio Gates.  He is another prospect that will take time to develop and may never do so.  Classic boom or bust pick.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A converted standout power forward on the Hurricanes’ hoops squad who is still very raw and learning how to play the game, Graham showed gradual improvement in his first year on the gridiron and there is no denying his upside. Solid Senior Bowl performance and exceptional Combine workout could enhance his draft stock. Still might require several years before he figures it out and adapts to the speed of the game, but has a very high ceiling and really could blossom with good coaching.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The word “upside” was made for athletic players like Graham, who has gone from solid basketball big man to big-time NFL prospect in the span of a few months.  Comparisons to former Cal basketball star and future hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez are natural – and becoming more realistic every day.  You simply can’t coach his height and athleticism.  

123.)  New Orleans Saints
Al Woods, DT, LSU
Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 309

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another Saints' developmental prospect, Woods may take a few years to yield a return, but he's going to a team with great depth in front of him and that should allow him the time to become who he can be.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Still-developing widebody with untapped potential, Woods shed weight as a senior, became a full-time starter for the first time and started to figure it out. Has the raw size, strength and power DL coaches covet and could become an effective space eater at the next level if he is able to keep his weight in check and continue refining his technique.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick. 


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

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Tennant is an undersized prospect but is a good enough athlete to make it in the NFL.  He needs to continue to add strength but has the potential to become a starter.
Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  In 2009, Tennant joined current new England Patriot Dan Koppen as the only Boston College finalist in the history of the Rimington award, given to the nation’s top center (won by Pouncey).  Tennant lacks Pouncey’s size and physicality, but is blessed with good athleticism.

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 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 5, Pick 157 - 161

157.)  Baltimore Ravens
Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 301

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

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

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


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


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




159.)  Philadelphia Eagles
Riley Cooper, WR, Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 222

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

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

160.)  Cleveland Browns
Larry Asante, S, Nebraska

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 212

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

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

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

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

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 325

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

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

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

Pro Football Weekly 2010 Draft Preview available @ http://www.pfwstore.com/detail.aspx?ID=695

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

Lindy’s Sports 2010 Draft Guide available @http://www.lindyssports.com/product.php?cn=332

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Round 4, Picks 122 - 126

122.)  Philadelphia Eagles
Mike Kafka, QB, Northwestern

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 225

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Kafka is a mobile and accurate quarterback.  He needs to put on weight to be able to take NFL hits but is an interesting prospect with upside and another great value pick by the Eagles.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Averaging only 7.0 yards per attempt in Northwestern’s spread offense and throwing 12 interceptions (five in a bowl game loss to Auburn in which he also threw for 532 yards on 78 attempts) in 2009 did not impress scouts.  Still, his size, intelligence, mobility and fair accuracy make him a possible late-round selection.

123.)  New Orleans Saints
Al Woods, DT, LSU

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 309

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another Saints' developmental prospect, Woods may take a few years to yield a return, but he's going to a team with great depth in front of him and that should allow him the time to become who he can be.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Still-developing widebody with untapped potential, Woods shed weight as a senior, became a full-time starter for the first time and started to figure it out. Has the raw size, strength and power DL coaches covet and could become an effective space eater at the next level if he is able to keep his weight in check and continue refining his technique.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick. 

124.)  Carolina Panthers
Eric Norwood, LB, South Carolina 

Ht: 6' 1" Wt: 245

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An excellent edge rusher, the Panthers will probably use him as a situational pass rusher on third down and also as a tackler on special teams.  A player who could have gone much earlier, this is another good pick at this point in the draft.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Thickly built power-leverage rusher at his best pinning his ears back and rushing the quarterback. Better football player than athlete and would be best as a rush linebacker for an aggressive “30” front such as that of the Steelers, Ravens or 49ers.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

125.)  Philadelphia Eagles
Clay Harbor, TE, Missouri State

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 252

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Harbor will come in and make an impact as a special team blocker and possibly as a goal line blocker for the Eagles.  He has excellent route running skills and could also score some goal line touch downs as a decoy.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Harbor is the type of hybrid moving tight end/fullback combo many NFL offenses like to use as a positional blocker on the edge and a matchup problem for safties and linebackers.  The former receiver has the ability to get open in zones and stretch the field, and scouts envision him playing early downs as a motion tight end.

126.)  Dallas Cowboys
Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, CB, Indiana (PA)
Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 207

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An excellent returner, he will step into that role immediately for the Cowboys.  As a corner back, he has tremendous upside and potential but, again like many prospects in the draft, will need time to reach full potential.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Well-built, long-levered, raw corner with upside and versatility to potentially contribute as a return man or line up at safety down the road. Could require some patience while adjusting to the speed of the pro game and becoming more technically proficient but has upside with an intriguing size-speed ratio and moldable physical tools.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Pro Football Weekly 2010 Draft Preview available @ http://www.pfwstore.com/detail.aspx?ID=695

GM Jr. 2010 Draft Guide available @ http://gmjrnfldraft.com/

Lindy’s Sports 2010 Draft Guide available @http://www.lindyssports.com/product.php?cn=332

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at www.everymorningqb.com.

Round 3, Pick 95 - New Orleans Saints - Jimmy Graham

Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami

Ht: 6’ 6 ¼” Wt: 260

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Graham is exactly the type of draft pick that a world champion football team can take a risk on.  An inexperienced football player with unlimited upside, Graham could very well be the next Antonio Gates.  He is another prospect that will take time to develop and may never do so.  Classic boom or bust pick.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A converted standout power forward on the Hurricanes’ hoops squad who is still very raw and learning how to play the game, Graham showed gradual improvement in his first year on the gridiron and there is no denying his upside. Solid Senior Bowl performance and exceptional Combine workout could enhance his draft stock. Still might require several years before he figures it out and adapts to the speed of the game, but has a very high ceiling and really could blossom with good coaching.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The word “upside” was made for athletic players like Graham, who has gone from solid basketball big man to big-time NFL prospect in the span of a few months.  Comparisons to former Cal basketball star and future hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez are natural – and becoming more realistic every day.  You simply can’t coach his height and athleticism.  

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 64 - New Orleans Saints - Charles Brown

Charles Brown, OT, USC

Ht: 6’ 5 3/8” Wt: 303

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An extremely athletic tackle, Brown can fill in as a reserve player next season but could develop into a starting left tackle in the near future.  The Saints did not need a tackle but chose to go with value instead.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A long-armed converted tight end in need of continued physical and technical development, Brown improved as a senior, interviewed well at the Combine and has the arm length, athletic ability and bend to start at left tackle. However, his lack of functional strength, grit and toughness are concerns that could keep him from ever reaching his potential. Best fit will likely come in a zone scheme similar to the one used by the Packers, Seahawks or Redskins. Upside will bring him off draft boards considerably higher than he grades out on tape.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  NFL scouts are more frequently looking to converted tight ends as potential left tackles.  Former Baylor standout Jason Smith, the No. 2 overall pick by St. Louis in 2009, is one such example period.  With only two starting seasons under his belt, Brown may not be at the same level as Smith or many of the 2010 elite tackle prospects, but his size and athletic upside will likely earn him a first- or second-round selection come April.

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 32 - New Orleans Saints - Patrick Robinson

Patrick Robinson

Ht: 5’ 11 ¼” Wt: 190

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Robinson has the best change in direction of any corner in this draft.  He needs to work on his technique but he won't be forced to start because he's going to a team with an already talented defensive backfield.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A supremely athletic, gifted corner with the speed and agility to function on an island, Robinson ran slower than expected at the Combine but is considered the most explosive athlete to come out of FSU since Antonio Cromartie. Skill set could interest teams such as the Raiders, Jets and Packers, but lack of discipline and minimal on-the-ball production are reasons for pause.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Robinson is a special cornerback who has outstanding speed and quickness.  He is a good man coverage player who wants to be physical at the line of scrimmage.  Plays with a competitive nature and does not back down from a challenge.  Has descent instincts in coverage and good route awareness.  Has the foot quickness and hip flexibility to handle double moves and still stay in the receiver’s hip pocket.  Will get lazy at times and play off routes almost as if he is baiting the quarterback to throw to his man.  Will play back on his heels and have to take a false step out of his break in zone coverages.  Will close with a burst on short throws in front of him if he has a chance for a big hit or a pass break up.  Has good ability to anticipate the throw and has good ability at closing with a burst.  Average strength as a press cornerback to keep the receiver from getting a free release.  Choppy, short stepper in back pedal, but quick to flip his hips and mirror receiver.  Strong tackler who will throw his shoulder in on ball carrier.  Gives good hustle and will make tackles from the backside.  Wants in on the action.  Has very good ball skills and is a playmaker when he is challenged.  Robinson was clearly the best athlete of the defensive backs at the Senior Bowl – Quickest feet with excellent foot agility and ability to change directions.  Overall, Robinson needs to improve the consistency reading routes, but his playmaking ability, athleticism and competitiveness make me confident in his ability to become a very good starting cornerback in the NFL and should be a 1^st round pick because of it.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Athletic, instinctive and possessing good size, Robinson has the traits teams are looking for in a first-round cornerback – except consistency.  He has all of the natural talent and ability to become a Pro Bowl cornerback, but inconsistent play leaves the door open for Robinson to be a bust.  

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

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