It's Complicated

Talented Rams' safety O.J. Atogwe is faced with a not -so-difficult decision. He can either take the restricted free agent offer from the Rams for roughly about $4.5 million less than he made last season, or he could wait until the first of June and force the Rams to give him a one million dollar pay increase from his pay last season (sounds like a tough decision). The Rams, if they don't want to pay him, could let him become an unrestricted free agent.

Is it just me or did all of that information sound really complicated? That's because Atogwe is a victim of the NFL's "restricted" free agent system. It was designed to allow teams to keep young players from entering unrestricted free agency for one more season (cheaply of course) or give their former teams compensation in the form of draft picks if they decided to sign somewhere else.

The fact is the NFL needs to improve this situation. No team has traded for a restricted player in the three previous off-seasons, and the owners were the only party reaping the reward. I'm hoping that in the new CBA, between the owners and players, makes it easier on both parties.

Until then, the talented Atogwe is faced with sitting around and watching Boomerang all day like the rest of us. Okay, maybe that's just me.




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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Craig's List Trade - NFL Style

The Dallas Cowboys and St. Louis Rams have completed a trade by swapping linebacker Bobby Carpenter for Alex Barron.  That in itself is not big news.

The bigger story is the fact that these guys couldn't have been traded for anybody but themselves. Having the conversation: "I'll trade you Bobby Carpenter for Alex Barron" is like saying "I'll trade you my broken leaf blower for your Atari 5200 that has no controllers." Just remember that these guys are "as is".

Barron is an awesome athlete that struggles with in-game adjustments and sometimes plays down to his competition. Carpenter has 3 starts in four seasons and has basically been a special teams player. He has acquired the nickname "Barbie" from his teammates because of his lack of physical play and because of his long flowing blonde mane. This was documented in HBO's 2008's Hard Knocks and is an interesting watch if you have the time.

The fact of the matter is that both players will be free agents after this season and both seem to fit a need for their new teams. Tackles as athletic as Barron are hard to find, and Carpenter is much better suited for a 4-3 defense. 

Having the free agency eligibility moved from four years to six years in the League has allowed for much more trading this off season. Though this trade doesn't look like a big deal, the fact that so many trades have transpired is keeping things interesting. These trades have replaced traditional free agency in a sense, and teams can get a draft pick in return for a player they would have released or let go in free agency in a standard capped year.  It's definitely keeping me busy.






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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St. Louis Rams 2010 Draft Review

Courtesy of NFL

The Rams had many need to address. Bradford has excellent accuracy and good arm strength, which is what NFL quarterbacks need to be successful. A.J. Feeley and Keith Null would have given St. Louis the same chance at winning, without any of the future upside. Saffold could become a starting left tackle, and the Rams were the benefactors of a deep draft as Saffold had first round value. Though it wasn't a headline grabbing draft, the Rams picks made sense based upon their need for talent. They addressed dire needs at the wide receiver, cornerback, and tight end positions. They could have a steal on their hands in DE George Selvie. They took development prospects in the later rounds because the Rams need to develop starters and not draft backups. They already have a team full of those. 

Round 1, Pick 1 St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford

Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Ht: 6’ 4 ¼ “ Wt: 236 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  When you only win one game like the Rams did last season, you have many holes to fill.  Quarterback is an excellent place to start.  Bradford is an accurate quarterback and known as a good leader.  The concern is his injury history combined with the poorest offensive line the St. Louis Rams.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Does not have the arm or athletic talent of John Elway or Troy Aikman, but Bradford’s accuracy is as good as any quarter- back since Philip Rivers entered the draft, and his competitive spirit, intelligence and accuracy will allow him to develop readily. Would be most effective in a fast-paced, shotgun-prevalent offense similar to that of the Colts, where he will not have to adjust to working as much from underneath center. Durability is his greatest concern. Could be the first overall player drafted in a QB-driven league and should be able to contribute immediately and develop into a great pro.

NFL projection: Top-five pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Bradford is a red-shirt junior in 2009 and came out early for the 2010 NFL Draft after strongly considering entering the 2009 Draft early.  He is a tall and very athletic quarterback who would be helped by adding 15/20 pounds to his frame as he looks very thin on film right now (While he looked bigger at the Combine and his Pro Day, he will need to prove he can maintain 230+ pounds during the seasons).  He is obviously going to have to make the big adjustment to lining up under center much more and playing in a more traditional NFL offense, but in our view if he can become more consistent with his technique and throw the ball with zip/power more of the time then he has everything it takes to be a very good starting quarterback in the NFL.  Overall, Bradford will end up being a Top 5 pick in the 2010 draft.  There is no doubt that he needs work on some things, but he has the physical tools and intangibles that are tough to find and should enable him to adjust to the NFL better than most college quarterbacks.  With teams already having concerns about Bradford’s ability to playing under center – reading the defense while dropping back to pass is the biggest challenge – He answered many of the questions about his injured shoulder with a very good throwing display at his Pro Day on March 29. 

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Instead of returning to Norman and taking a chance of another injury derailing his NFL career, Bradford decided to work toward the draft following surgery to repair the sprained right AC joint in this throwing shoulder.  The lack of top-flight senior quarterback talent, his reputation among scouts as one of the most accurate passers to come along in quite a while and his underrated athleticism and mobility make Bradford a likely top 10 pick.

Round 2, Pick 33 - St. Louis Rams - Rodger Saffold


Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana

Ht: 6’ 4 5/8” Wt: 316

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Saffold is a good enough athlete to play left tackle in the NFL.  The Rams need to protect their new $45 million investment in Sam Bradford and need to score more points to stay competitive.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Solidified his standing at the East- West Shrine Game, where he impressed evaluators with his athletic ability and showed clear starter potential as a left tackle. Does not have great length to handle the edges and could project inside to left guard in a lateral-moving, zone-slide protection scheme, but he has convinced scouts he could be a competent edge protector on the blind side after moving very fluidly at the Combine, bulking up, measuring longer and working out very well. Could warrant some late first-round interest as a left tackle prospect if he is given a clean bill of health and should start right away, at left guard or tackle.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Stood out during the East-West Shrine Game practices as potentially the top player in attendance because of his footwork in pass protection and excellent strength and pop on inside run drills.  That effort coupled with his 2009 performance could earn him a spot in the top 75 selections.

Round 3, Pick 65 - St. Louis Rams - Jerome Murphy

Jerome Murphy, CB, South Florida

Ht: 6’ 0 1/4” Wt: 196 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Murphy is the third South Florida player selected in this NFL Draft.  A strictly press corner, he fits the style of player that St. Louis covets at that position.  If he can provide adequate down-field coverage, he could help the Rams run the more blitzing style that they would like to run.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A big, physical, competitive, multidimensional press corner, Murphy has natural cover skills and does not hesitate to assert him- self in the run game. Is rough around the edges but competes, hits like a safety and has what it takes to compete with NFL receivers. Skill set allows for scheme versatility.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Murphy is among the biggest hitters in the 2010 cornerback class. S He made 67 tackles in 2008, along with two interceptions in both his sophomore and junior seasons.  As a senior, his four interceptions and eight pass breakups led USF and his 77 tackles were a career high.  Murphy has toughness, along with the height and arm length scouts look for at the corner spot.  His reliance on cut tackles and inconsistency maintaining discipline in man coverage might prevent him from being a top 50 pick, but a zone-heavy team could discover a bargain if he’s still around into the third round. 

Round 4, Pick 99.  St. Louis Rams

Mardy Gilyard, WR, Cincinnati
Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 179

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Gilyard has off field issues and does not have elite NFL speed but is an intriguing playmaker none the less.  The Rams are looking to add weapons to help Bradford in his rookie season.  

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Gilyard has one of this draft’s most intriguing stories, as he worked his way back into the program after being stripped of his scholarship following an accusation of cheating by one of his professors in 2006.  Gilyard slept in his car for a few months, working part-time jobs to pay off creditors and performing community service.  He returned to Cincinnati in 2007 and thrived in coach Brian Kelly’s offense.  Although his lanky build, average timed speed and past personal issue swill turn off some scouts, the physical and mental toughness he’s displayed over the past few seasons – along with his elusiveness as a receiver and return specialist – should overcome those stigmas to make him a top 75 pick.  

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

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

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

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

149.)  St. Louis Rams
Hall Davis, DE, Louisiana Lafayette

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 271

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Rams take a risk on a developmental prospect with big upside.  Davis could struggle in the NFL coming from the small school environment, but if the Rams are patient with him, he could, at the least, turn into an effective nickel pass rusher.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Has an NFL-ready body, but a lack of positional instincts and production should give evaluators reasons for pause. Has the size, athletic ability and versatility to fit in a variety of schemes as a base end or potentially even as a rush linebacker. Could require patience but has upside with a coach who could unlock his potential. Compares favorably to Packers 2008 fourth-round pick Jeremy Thompson. The big question is whether any coach will ever be able to turn on his light bulb and unlock his potential.

NFL projection: Third- to fourth-round pick.

170.)  St. Louis Ram
Fendi Onobun, TE, Arizona

Ht: 6' 6" Wt: 252

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The Rams take a flier on the potential of Onobun's pass catching ability.  Another development prospect, he might not see regular playing time for several seasons.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Raw, developmental, pass-catching tight end with enough upside for a good, patient coaching staff such as that of the Patriots or Packers to take a chance developing.

NFL projection: Priority free agent. 

189.)  St. Louis Rams
Eugene Sims, DE, West Texas AM
Ht: 6' 5" Wt:  240

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Another undersized defensive end prospect who needs to get stronger to compete at the NFL level, Sims dominated the Division II level.  Raw in his technique, he will need NFL coaching and patience in order to achieve his maximum potential.

211.)  St. Louis Rams

Marquis Johnson, DB, Alabama

Ht: 5' 10" Wt: 192

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Alabama's nickel corner, Johnson will probably fulfill the same role in the NFL.  Not blessed with great speed, Johnson makes up for it with intelligence and sound technique.  

226.)  St. Louis Rams

George Selvie, DE, Southern Florida

Ht: 6' 3" Wt: 252 

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  After a spectacular sophomore season, Selvie disappointed his last two college years.  Selvie is a good straight-line rusher but does not  have the size and strength to out muscle tackles and can be blocked too easily.  If he can show his early college form, Selvie could earn a spot on the Rams' roster.

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Very tough, upright tweener who is most known for his superproductive sophomore season and does not get enough credit for how strong and tough he is for a lightweight plugger. Lacks the athletic ability and bend desired in a rush linebacker and lack of size could be limiting as an every-down defensive end. However, he does play big for his size with enough leverage and grit to stick as a 4-3 base end despite his lack of bulk.

NFL projection: Fifth- to sixth-round pick.

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.

Every Morning Quarterback by Aharon Williams is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
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Round 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.