EMQB's Fantasy Sleepers - AFC West

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

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


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

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

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






 


Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.everymorningqb.com.
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San Diego Chargers 2010 Draft Review

The Chargers had some specific needs going into the draft. They needed a starting running back to replace Ladainian Tomlinson. They also needed to replace long-time, stalwart Jamal Williams at nose tackle.  They did exactly that by drafting Ryan Mathews and Cam Thomas. They traded their second round pick to move up and select Mathews.  Depth at corner is still a need after the Cromartie trade and the offensive line was not addressed. They did address the lack of ball hawking skills from the safety position by drafting Darrell Stuckey and got an interesting inside linebacker prospect in Donald Butler. Jonathan Crompton should replace Charlie Whitehurst nicely. The Chargers were aggressive getting the players at positions they needed badly but weren't afraid to pass on lesser needs for players they wanted.


Round 1, Pick 12

Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State

Ht: 5’ 11 5/8” Wt: 218

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Chargers were in desperate need of a running back after releasing LT.  Mathews is a bell-cow type runner and will be successful behind the talented offensive line of the Chargers.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A tough, downhill runner who owns a unique distinction in this draft as a back capable of playing every down. He distinguished himself as a junior and has the vision, strength and tackle-breaking ability to become a workhorse-type back.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Mathews is a first-year starter at RB, who loses some playing time to two other players for the Bulldogs in 2009.  He has an exceptional physique with above average arm length for the position at the next level.  He is an outstanding overall athlete with excellent overall play speed, initial quickness, & lateral avoid with balance as a runner.  He lacks the elite pure speed to consistently gain the edge or to make the long run.  He is more of a one-cut, downhill type of runner, who runs to & through contact. He shows exceptional functional strength & power to break high arm tackle attempts between the tackles.  He runs behind his pads with great lower body flexibility, nimble feet, & contact balance to bounce/spin-off tackle attempts.  However, he will go down too easily against low contact at times.  He is a sledge-hammer inside, who wears-down defenders by the end of the game.  Although he lacks elite speed, he does have the ability to change his gears & builds-up speed with acceleration down the field.  He consistently runs with square shoulders & a strong stride.  He can be effective as an off-tackle runner after one cut.  He is very tough for a single perimeter defender to bring him down.  He did NOT fumble in my views.  He is an excellent receiving threat out of the backfield, & an exceptional blocker in pass protection.  He does a great job of locating & eliminating blitzers, he can snap his hips & uncoil on contact.  He also shows soft hands with the ability to adjust to the ball in the air out of the backfield.  He shows exceptional toughness, but little elusiveness in his rac ability.  Overall, he is a future starter & complete player at the NFL level.  He lacks Pro Bowl caliber speed & ability, but has many strong qualities to serve him well in his career.  He has the chance to play right way on 3^rd down due to his ability to block in pass protection.  He would best pair with an undersized, fast & explosive back for a team.  He reminds me of a combination of former Wolverine Chris Perry, who was a late 1^st round pick by the Bengals in 2004 & of former Hokie Kevin Jones, who was a late 1^st round pick by the Lions that same year. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  When healthy, Mathews has enjoyed remarkable results, rushing for 3,280 yards and 39 touchdowns in only 534 attempts (6.12-yard average).  Possessing the toughness, balance and leg drive to be a grinder on the inside, as well as the vision and speed to make big plays on the outside, Mathews might be the nation’s best all-around back.

Round 3, Pick 79

Donald Butler, LB, Washington

Ht: 6’ 1 1/8” Wt:  245

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Butler is the type of player that will make his impact on special teams immediately and could develop into a starting linebacker in a season or two.  Though he is somewhat physically limited, his instincts and playmaking capabilities won't keep him off the field in the NFL.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Played inside as a senior but fits best on the weak side in a 4-3 front where he is free to run to the ball. Instant special-teams contributor. NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  His narrow build could make it difficult for him to add the size and strength necessary to handle the bigger, stronger guards in the NFL.  His relentlessness and good open-field tackling skills will help him rack up tackles.  Considering his frame and relative comfort in coverage, some teams will view Bulter as an outside linebacker prospect. 

110.)  San Diego Chargers
Darrell Stuckey, FS, Kansas

Ht: 5' 11" Wt: 205

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Stuckey is another try-hard prospect.  Not blessed with overwhelming speed, he will come in and help on special teams immediately.  He is also capable to fill in as an injury replacement at the safety position.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Stood out as a junior but posted a disappointing senior season and did not stand out at the Shrine game. Moved around well enough at the Combine to warrant re-evaluating junior tape and is athletic enough to warrant interest as a solid No. 3 safety.

NFL projection: Mid-round pick.

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.  

168.)  San Diego Chargers
Jonathan Crompton, QB, Tennessee

Ht: 6’ 3” Wt: 222

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another darling of the pre-draft process, Crompton is a bit of a enigma.  He came into his own only halfway through his senior season and has too much bad tape to warrant an higher draft pick.  The Chargers have an excellent starting QB, and Crompton is going to the perfect situation in the fact that he has time to develop

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Showed some progress down the stretch as a senior and capped a late-season surge with a solid week at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game. Development was hindered by cycling through offensive coordinators and is still very raw. Would be best in a sprint- out, West Coast offense featuring heavy play- action, but a lack of intangibles and escapability could limit his chances.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The sudden improvement Crompton made in Lane Kiffin’s pro-style offense is intriguing.  Then games is hardly enough of a sample set to warrant a high-round selection.  However, a team willing to gamble on a developing talent with legitimate NFL tools could be pleasantly surprised with the results.  

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.

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 162 - 169

162.)  Indianapolis Colts
Brody Eldridge, TE, Oklahoma

Ht: 6' 5" Wt: 261

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Strictly a run blocker, Eldridge is being brought in to help contribute to the transformation of the offensive line into a more physical run blocking team.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Compares favorably to Jets 2006 fifth-rounder and current Seahawks TE Jason Pociask and could bring solid value in two-TE sets as a blocker if he could stay healthy.

NFL projection: Fifth- to sixth-round pick.

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.

164.)  Pittsburgh Steelers
Crezdon Butler, CB, Clemson

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 191

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Butler is an intriguing athlete with upside who needs time to improve his on the field instincts and overall production.  The Steelers need help at corner and are hoping Butler can contribute early on in dime packages but most likely he will contribute on special teams.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   A better athlete than football player, Butler has measurables that will attract early interest and significantly upgraded his draft value with a fine showing at the Combine, but lacks the instincts, confidence and toughness desired to make it.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

165.)  Atlanta Falcons
Kerry Meier, WR, Kansas

Ht: 6' 2" Wt:  224

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A smart player with good size, Meier lacks the explosiveness to be an outside receiver but Atlanta doesn't have an overwhelming need for that skill.  Someone who can play in the slot or help with blocking the run from the wide receiver position, Meier could find a spot on the Falcons.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Moved from quarterback to receiver during his sophomore season, Meier’s experience under center shows in his understanding of what defenses are trying to do.  He has the potential as a third or fourth receiver, but lacks good speed and will be considered as an H-back candidate if he bulks up.

166.)  Pittsburgh Steelers
Stevenson Sylvester, LB, Utah

Ht: 6' 2" Wt: 231

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Steelers, more than likely, see Sylvester as an inside linebacker prospect but perhaps feel he might not contribute much outside of special teams.  Doesn't have the athletic ability to be an impact player.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Looked fluid at his Combine work- out but is not athletic enough to make up for his ordinary athletic ability and read-and-react skills. Would be best as a 4-3 weak-side line- backer where he is free to run and hit.

NFL projection: Late draftable pick.

167.)  Minnesota Vikings
Nathan Triplett, LB, Minnesota

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 250 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another player who could become a special team standout, Triplett has the type of attitude and on the field passion that coaches appreciate.  He could fill in as a stop gap starter if necessary.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Nathan Triplett is a typical Big Ten linebacker, who relies on his toughness and smarts to overcome his lack of athleticism. He has limited versatility because he is a stiff, upright player who struggles to pursue sideline to sideline and cover TE’s and backs downfield, and will need to be taken by a team that can cover him up inside in a 3-4 scheme. What he does excel at is consistently diagnosing the play in the backfield, and working his way thru traffic to get to the ball. He will need to improve his leverage and use his hands better when taking on blocks in order to see the field in the NFL. Overall, Trip- lett has the size, smarts, instincts and aggressiveness to make it as a backup inside linebacker and special teams player. 

168.)  San Diego Chargers
Jonathan Crompton, QB, Tennessee

Ht: 6’ 3” Wt: 222

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another darling of the pre-draft process, Crompton is a bit of a enigma.  He came into his own only halfway through his senior season and has too much bad tape to warrant an higher draft pick.  The Chargers have an excellent starting QB, and Crompton is going to the perfect situation in the fact that he has time to develop

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Showed some progress down the stretch as a senior and capped a late-season surge with a solid week at the Texas vs. the Nation all-star game. Development was hindered by cycling through offensive coordinators and is still very raw. Would be best in a sprint- out, West Coast offense featuring heavy play- action, but a lack of intangibles and escapability could limit his chances.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  The sudden improvement Crompton made in Lane Kiffin’s pro-style offense is intriguing.  Then games is hardly enough of a sample set to warrant a high-round selection.  However, a team willing to gamble on a developing talent with legitimate NFL tools could be pleasantly surprised with the results.  

169.)  Green Bay Packers
Marshall Newhouse, OT, TCU

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 319

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An offensive tackle who has the athletic ability but is missing the required mean streak of an NFL player, Newhouse has potential if he can play with a consistent aggressive attitude.  The Packers are hoping with professional coaching and with time in the weight room that he can develop.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  College left tackle who moved around well at the Combine and has the quickness and agility to intrigue on paper. However, he plays too passively, lacks functional strength, cannot sink his hips or generate any power, and he will have to fit in a zone-blocking scheme to have a chance. Will be overdrafted on measurables. Best fit will come inside.

NFL projection: Mid-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 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.