Minnesota Vikings 2010 Draft Review

With cornerback and running back being the Vikings' glaring needs, Chris Cook and Toby Gerhart were easy picks to make. Cook might have seemed like a compromise but is a talented player who could come in and start immediately if Antoine Winfield or Cedric Griffen don't recover fully from injury. Gerhart is a versatile downhill runner and will take some carries off of the plate of Adrian Peterson. Everson Griffen was considered a steal with the 100th pick but one has to question: why did a guy who had a late first/early second round grade fall all the way to the fourth round? The rest of the players drafted will supply depth for the Vikings' perceived run at the Super Bowl. 


Round 2, Pick 34

Chris Cook, CB, Virginia

Ht: 6’2” Wt: 212

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  The rumor was the Vikings coveted cornerback Patrick Robinson but Cook provides them with depth.  The Vikings defensive backfield was ravaged with injury last season, and they were in dire need of help at that position. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Lanky, long-levered corner who fared well at the Senior Bowl and showed some explosion in drills at the Combine. Has safety size but is not aggressive or physical, so best chance in the pros will come at cornerback. His rare size in a league where receivers keep getting bigger will drive up his value.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Cook’s strong senior seasons and solid week of practice at the Senor Bowl made him relevant with scouts.  His long frame and quick hands make him an intriguing option for teams using press coverage and his range could convince coaches to try him at safety if he improves tackling in the open field.  Has the size, speed and experience to surprise in the NFL.

Round 2, Pick 51

Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford 

Ht: 6' 0" Wt: 231

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  When the Vikings lost Chester Taylor, they were in bad need of a back up running back.  Gerhart is all that and more.  With the ability to block, he can be lined up simultaneously with Adrian Peterson or spell him when he's tired. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: A college tailback trapped in a full- back’s body, Gerhart is a well-built bulldozer with the strength, determination and competitiveness to wear down college defenses, but he most ideally would be suited for a more limited role as a West Coast fullback in the pros, where he could preserve his body and contribute in single-back sets and as a short-yardage and nickel rusher. Could be drafted more highly than he grades out because he gives decision-makers comfort knowing exactly what they are getting.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  A two-sport star, Gerhart blew away the all-time California state high school record with 9,622 career rushing yards and capped a brilliant Stanford career with an 1,871-yard junior season.  The Heisman finalist has the power, receiving hands (39 career receptions) and quick feet to be a primary ballcarrier in the NFL.

100.)  Minnesota Vikings
Everson Griffen, DE/OLB, USC
Ht:6’ 3 3/8” Wt: 273

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  This player falling this far has become a bit of a mystery.  Griffen was rated as high as a first or second-round pick but obviously has some other issues.  An inconsistent effort is one of these issues, but he has top end athleticism.   

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Has first-round talent and has long been viewed as a star-in-waiting, but did not live up to the hype at USC. Teased evaluators with his quickness, power and explosion early in the season but was sidetracked by injuries and fell off in the second half of the season. Has an intriguing skill set with disruptive quickness and edge burst, but comes with a “buyer beware” label due to intermittent intensity, lack of discipline and questions about his mental makeup. Overall lack of toughness could push him to the second round and keep him from ever realizing his potential.

NFL projection: Top-50 pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Blessed with good size, strength and the athleticism to jump up the board in workouts, Griffen is an intriguing prospect who might just be scratching the surface of his potential.  His agility and straight-line speed might be enough to convince scouts that his future position should be as an outside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme.  Regardless of his pro position, teams will have to judge how likely it is that he’ll return to his inconsistent ways once he cashes that first NFL paycheck.

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.

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. 

199.)  Minnesota Vikings

Joe Webb, QB, UAB

Ht: 6' 3" Wt:  223

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A prospect in the mold of Percy Harvin, Webb could run the "wildcat" offense or be converted to wide receiver.  He is a long term project and might not make a talented squad.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:   Converted QB project who will require some time to adapt to an NFL playbook, but Webb has enough size, athletic ability and run skills to warrant giving a chance running routes.

NFL projection: Priority free agent.

214.)  Minnesota Vikings

Mickey Shuler, TE, Penn State

Ht: 6' 4" Wt: 251

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  An undersized, blocking tight end, Shuler could come in and contribute on running downs and special teams.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Tough, try-hard, high-effort over-achiever with a chance to compete in a camp.

NFL projection: Free agent.

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.  

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.

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.

Indianapolis Colts 2010 Draft Review

The Colts have done it again. They have scoured the draft and found players that fit their system perfectly.  Jerry Hughes is a great replacement for Rahim Brock and makes for a great rotational player along with Freeney and Mathis. Pat Angerer is a typical, smart, hard- nosed Colts' linebacker who will add depth and play special teams. Kevin Thomas comes from an NFL atomosphere at USC and might be another Colts' third rounder who could contribute immediately. McClendon is a tough run blocker, and the Colts are looking for developmental prospects for their offensive line. The Colts' draft won't make any national headlines, but if these players make headlines winning Super Bowls, it really won't matter.


Round 1, Pick 31

Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU

Ht: 6’ 1 ¾” Wt: 255

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  This pick reminds me of the Dwight Freeney pick in 2002.  A small compact pass rusher with deadly speed, Hughes fits in perfectly with the Colts front four.  Another great first round pick.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Might not fit the prototype from a height-weight-speed standpoint and still could improve defending the run but is fast off the edge, plays on his feet and shows the type of flexibility and relentlessness desired of pass rushers at the next level. Can be effective pressurizing the edges for an up-the-field, one-gap scheme like that of the Colts, or stand up as a rush linebacker in an aggressive, slanting “30” front such as that of the Steelers, 49ers or Ravens. Will bring immediate value as a nickel rusher.

NFL projection: Top-40 pick

GM Jr’s scouting report: Hughes is a very talented defender with the physical talent that NFL teams are always looking for, but he must improve his technique and consistency to become the player he has the talent to be.  He is quick footed athlete with the playing speed and explosive closing burst to make hard, violent hits when he gets in good position.  His lack of ideal size makes his a very good candidate for the switch to rush-linebacker – He has the quicks, agility and athleticism to drop off the ball into coverage smoothly and effectively.  His consistent production making plays vs the run in pursuit would serve him very well playing upright in an outside linebacker alignment.  Overall, Hughes is not as productive as he has the talent to be, but is very impressive when he is playing well and really shined at his Pro Day workout, which has led to him moving up draft boards – He will likely be drafted in the 2nd round after such a strong spring.  In time he will become a productive starter (either in DE in a 43 scheme or a rush-linebacker in a 34), but if he does not improve his technique and become more consistent he will struggle to become the highly productive and consistent play her has show the ability to be.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:  Most teams using the four-man fronts view Hughes as a pass-rush specialist, but those using a base 3-4 alignment might move the undersized Hughes to linebacker – the move made by Chargers’ 2009 first-round pick Larry English.  A bit raw technique-wise, Hughes’ closing speed and secure tackling make him a threat to tack down the ball anywhere he lines up.

Round 2, Pick 63

Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa

Ht: 6’ 0 1/4” Wt:  235

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Angerer is another hustle type player who will contribute to an NFL immediately through special teams.  He can play either inside or outside linebacker but is limited by his speed.  

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report:  Compactly built, undersized, high- motor ’backer who compensates for his size limitations with instincts and anticipation. Is most effective when he is free to run to the ball and will have to be protected in a 4-3 scheme, but Angerer has an intense, competitive, special- teams mentality. Could be tried on the weak side.

NFL projection: Fourth- to fifth-round pick.

Lindy’s Sports scouting report:   Angerer lacks great size, but his motor, fluidity, awareness in zone coverage and hustle to the ball should intrigue teams looking for a weak-side – or undersized, active middle – linebacker in the mid-to-late rounds. 

Round 3, Pick 94

Kevin Thomas, CB, USC

Ht: 6’ 0” Wt: 192

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  Thomas was a pre-draft riser because of his excellent measurables, but it seems that many think those skills don’t equate to on the field results.  He heads to a team with an excellent coaching staff, and it’s possible they have a specific plan to make him a nickel or situational corner. 

Pro Football Weekly’s scouting report: Was derailed by injuries earlier in his career but was healthy as a senior and elevating his stock by showing natural cover skills and quickness to get his hands on the ball. Press corner who needs to improve functional strength but has starter potential.

NFL projection: Second- to third-round pick.

GM Jr’s scouting report:  Like fellow USC corner Josh Pinkard, much of Kevin Thomas’ college career was spent in the training room.  When he finally got on the field, it became apparent that he does not have the speed or all around athleticism to transition to CB at the next level.  He rarely plays with a proper pedal and looks choppy and awkward when he does, and he consistently loses a step in transition if he is not physical with his man.  While he probably needs to transition to tackle in order to hide his lack of athleticism and take advantage of his physicality, he needs to make huge strides in his tackling technique, as he whiffs on way too many tackles by giving up his ground and diving at the ball carrier.  Thomas may get a shot in the NFL training camp because of his size and decent instincts and awareness, but he will struggle to catch on because of his lack of speed and inconsistent technique. 

129.)  Indianapolis Colts
Jacques McClendon, OG, Tennessee
Ht 6' 3" Wt 324

EMQB’s analysis on the pick:  A relative unknown, McClendon seems to be the type of run blocker that the Colts have been lacking for several seasons.  His ability to knock people off the ball should be of great interest because Bill Polian is known for drafting gems at the offensive guard position in the late rounds.  

GM Jr scouting report:  McClendon is a strong guard prospect that I knew nothing off when I began evaluating Tennessee, but when he torqued a DT off his feet early in Georgia game he grabbed my attention. He is a thickly built guard with the strength to physically dominate man once he locks up on man with both hands, but he needs to show more aggressiveness as a blocker to take full advantage of his playing strength. He is not going to fit every team’s of- fensive system because he is not as productive in pass pro when he has to move his feet a lot, but for teams looking for strong and physical blockers who can control their man he would fit perfectly. Overall, I doubt McClendon will be drafted as highly as we have him rated, if he is drafted at all, but he has everything it takes to develop into a very good # 3 guard or solid starting guard. He reminds us a bunch of former NFL guard Bennie Anderson who was undrafted out of Tennessee State, but developed into a solid starting guard in the NFL

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.