The Official 2007 NFL Draft Thread

[yabanci]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

Dola -

NFL is reporting it was just a 4th rounder too. Guess, I'm hallucinating early in the morning. Sorry about that.

just so you know you're not losing your mind, somebody on another board also mentioned that ESPN initially reported a 1st round pick was involved and then corrected the story.

[Vinatieri for Prez]

Originally Posted by Lathum

Thats a bad move IMO for the Pats. I wouldn't want my team to go near Moss

Love this deal. A 4th rounder in a totally weak draft? No problems. A restructured contract to boot. I believe as long as the team wins, he'll behave fine. Just like Dillon.

It's reported that BB got the greenlight from team veterans to bring Moss in. Brady probably got a boner when BB asked him.

[jeff061]

Quite honestly, I think Dillon's problems were worse than Moss's when we aquired him.

[Draft Dodger]

a 4th for Moss? great deal for the Pats. that's not a lot to give up for a potentially very large return. if it doesn't work out, it's not like they gave up the farm for him.

[Draft Dodger]

btw, what did the Pats get for their 3rd rounder?

[Eaglesfan27]

Originally Posted by yabanci

just so you know you're not losing your mind, somebody on another board also mentioned that ESPN initially reported a 1st round pick was involved and then corrected the story.

Thanks. I had just woken up, but I didn't think I completely imagined that.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

Obviously, this is a great deal for the Pats. Cut him if he gives them any problems. In return for the chance, they have potentially the most explosive offense in the league with Moss and Stallworth starting (assuming Stallworth can stay healthy which is always the question with him.) Wes Walker shouild give them a scary 3 WR set.

[Tigercat]

The Saints are officially the small college all-star team of the NFL from now on.

Besides Meachum and Pittman(from tOSU) they have drafted nothing but lesser known guys, including two corners and a OT that hardly anyone has heard of.

But these guys have good physical talent, are very coachable, and played consistent good ball at their respective levels of college football.

Could be the next Colston and Jahri Evans?

[bulletsponge]

is there any QB that Jaws doesnt think will be a good NFL QB?

[JeeberD]

I wonder if the Bengals would have taken Jordan Palmer instead of Rowe if JP hadn't said that Cincy was the last place he wanted to go because he wants to compete against Carson, not play with him.

[Logan]

Originally Posted by Tigercat

The Saints are officially the small college all-star team of the NFL from now on.

Besides Meachum and Pittman(from tOSU) they have drafted nothing but lesser known guys, including two corners and a OT that hardly anyone has heard of.

But these guys have good physical talent, are very coachable, and played consistent good ball at their respective levels of college football.

Could be the next Colston and Jahri Evans?

I have a friend that went to Towson, and he's been raving about Bushrod for a long time. Seemed to be on everyone's sleeper list by now. Think you got a nice pick there.

[Thomkal]

So anybody tell me anything about the Cards 5th round pick, WR Steve Breaston? They picked him pretty quickly when their pick came after not having a fourth so they must have been pretty high on him. I'm guessing he's a returner?

[DaddyTorgo]

Originally Posted by Thomkal

So anybody tell me anything about the Cards 5th round pick, WR Steve Breaston? They picked him pretty quickly when their pick came after not having a fourth so they must have been pretty high on him. I'm guessing he's a returner?

Breaston was a UM guy. More of a possession-type receiver, doesn't have that "other" gear.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/foo...ers/18769.html

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/foo...Player&p=86580

[DaddyTorgo]

maybe i'm a michigan homer, but I always thought he was better than they have him rated.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Breaston is a smallish receiver. He can be dangerous in the return game. He showed flashes of brilliance early in his career and never really matched the hype.

[ISiddiqui]

Thinking about it, that Moss deal is potentially good for both teams. Pats get Moss, Raiders get an extra 4th rounder which allows them to take a chance on Michael Bush and get Moss out of there.

Though I think with Moss and Meriweather, the Pats may have bitten off more than they can chew. But who knows?

[Logan]

Mike Vick is an angry man. Maybe it's a herpes flare up.

[ISiddiqui]

I almost thought Mort and Jaws were going to come to blows over the Vick issue.

[rowech]

The Rowe kid from Nevada...anyone know if his name rhymes with "cow" or "mow"?

[rowech]

Is there a salary cap in this league anymore? It seems NE and Denver continually go out and get whoever they want.

[Thomkal]

thanks for the Breaston info DT and HB. Guess the Cards could use a 3rd receiver type, certainly a returner, but would have gone elsewhere after not having a fourth round pick.

[JeeberD]

Originally Posted by rowech

The Rowe kid from Nevada...anyone know if his name rhymes with "cow" or "mow"?

The latter (I think)...

[SFL Cat]

Originally Posted by Vinatieri for Prez

Brady probably got a boner when BB asked him.

Look out! Sounds like Brady's ready to drop another loaf in some female's oven.

[RedKingGold]

Baltimore finally ended Troy Smith's freefall. Good pick by the Ravens.

[QuikSand]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

Baltimore finally ended Troy Smith's freefall. Good pick by the Ravens.

Can't think of a better spot for him, really.

[RedKingGold]

49er's Fans, here's what Scout's Inc. thinks of each of our prospects:

Patrick Willis
ILB | (6'1", 242, 4.51) | MISSISSIPPI

Scouts Grade: 95

Flags: (D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 1
Pick (Overall): 11(11)
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Strengths: Possesses good height, adequate bulk and still has room on his frame to improve bulk. He is quick, fluid and agile for his size. Shows very good lateral quickness and initial burst. He takes solid angles in pursuit and does a good job of sifting through traffic. Powerful enough to take on blocks in the phone booth when he's playing with leverage. He explodes through tackles and is reliable in space. A sideline-to-sideline pursuit linebacker. Shows good agility and fluidness in coverage. Gets a deep drop in zone and displays above average range. Can match up versus most tight ends and running backs one-on-one. Displays good burst and instincts as a blitzer, as well. Is a leader and hard-worker. Loves the game of football, plays through pain and leads by example.

Weaknesses: He lacks elite bulk and may need to add some weight in order to hold up better as an inside linebacker in the NFL. He has a muscular build but he does not possess ideal lower-body thickness. Plays a bit high at times and will let too many defenders get into his body. He is above average in terms of range in coverage, but he can be slow to diagnose at times. He also displays below average ball skills in coverage. Plays through pain but he has had trouble staying healthy throughout his career and always seems to be battling lingering injuries, some of which include knee, finger, foot and shoulder.

Overall: Willis played in all 13 games in 2003 as a true freshman, making 20 total tackles and one tackle for loss. In 2004, he saw action in 10 of 11 games and finished the year with 70 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, one fumble recovery, and one forced fumble. Willis earned first team All-SEC honors (Associated Press, coaches) after the 2005 season when he started the 10 contests he played in and recorded 128 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, one interception, one fumble recovery, and two forced fumbles. He missed the Wyoming game (9/24) with a knee injury and battled several other injuries including a broken finger, a sprained knee, a foot sprain, and a partially separated AC shoulder joint. Willis also missed spring practice in 2006 after having off-season foot surgery. He returned for the 2006 season and started all 12 games, finishing with 137 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery earning him first team All-American, first team All-SEC, SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors, and the Butkus Award.
Willis needs to learn to play more under control and his recognition skills in coverage need work. Otherwise, there's very little wrong with Willis as an NFL prospect. He has an outstanding combination of size, speed and agility. His tremendous workout performances in the postseason only verified what we've seen on him as a playmaking starter the past few seasons in the SEC. In our opinion, Willis is the top linebacker in the 2007 class and he should be ready to start immediately as a middle linebacker in the NFL.

Joe Staley
OT | (6'5", 306, 4.81) | CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Scouts Grade: 92 Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 1
Pick (Overall): 28(28)
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Strengths: Displays outstanding agility for an offensive tackle prospect. Has good initial quickness, takes good angles to blocks and generally gets into good position. Plays with a good motor, does an adequate job of locking onto defender's frame and is relentless once in position. Possesses great range and pulls well. Possesses good lateral mobility and flashes the ability to reach defensive tackles lined up inside of him. Plays under control in space and can adjust to the moving target at the second level. Gets set quickly and uses long arms to ride edge rushers past the pocket. Possesses good lateral mobility, can redirect inside after starting outside and is capable of countering double moves when plays with sound technique.

Weaknesses: While he has added weight to frame, he is still somewhat lean for his tall frame and isn't going to overwhelm defenders at the point of attack. Doesn't deliver a violent initial punch, doesn't roll hips into blocks and isn't going to knock defenders back. Lacks ideal lower body strength and is going to have problems driving defenders off the ball. Doesn't always get great knee bend in pass set and is vulnerable to bull rushers. Still needs to improve his hand-placement in pass pro.

Overall: Staley played in 11 games as a tight end during his true freshman year in 2003, catching 11 passes for 130 yards and one touchdown. In 2004 he was converted to right tackle where he started all 11 games for the Chippewas. Staley again started all 11 games in 2005, this time at left tackle, and did not allow a sack. He again started all 14 games at left tackle in 2006.
Staley is a converted tight end who has gained more than 70 pounds since stepping on campus at Central Michigan as a true freshman in 2003. He isn't a powerful drive blocker and he must continue to improve his overall strength. What impresses us most; however, are Staley's outstanding feet and mobility. It's rare to find an offensive lineman with such quick feet and 4.8-second speed in the 40-yard dash. Staley held his own early in the 2006 season against top-competition (Boston College and Michigan), which helps considering most of his playing time came against mid-major defenders. While he's far from a finished product, we think Staley has enough upside and proven skills to warrant a late-first round selection in the 2007 draft.

Jason Hill
WR | (6'0", 204, 4.36) | WASHINGTON STATE

Scouts Grade: 79

Flags: (D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 3
Pick (Overall): 12(76)
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Strengths: Possesses adequate-to-good overall size. He is instinctive and shows natural playmaking skills. He's a playmaker in the vertical passing game. Times his jumps well and displays very good leaping ability (37" V.J.). Wins more than his share of jump balls and displays excellent body control and awareness when working the sideline. He is a strong and aggressive receiver, who will not back down from a physical one-on-one matchup. He possesses relatively big hands and shows flashes of being able to make the difficult catch. Shows good initial burst up the field after the catch and he shows a decent second-gear when he gets into space. Possesses good size and strength to sustain blocks when in position.

Weaknesses: Doesn't seem to play as fast as his timed-speed. Lacks ideal initial burst and seems to build speed as he goes. Not overly dangerous after the catch. He is inconsistent when it comes to releasing from the line of scrimmage and getting in-and-out of his breaks. Has a tendency to round off too many routes. Loses focus catching the ball at times. Is not consistent enough when attempting to pluck on the run, or when catching over the middle of the field in traffic. Needs to improve his angles and technique in order to maximize his stalk-blocking potential. Durability is a minor concern after season-ending ankle injury as a senior.

Overall: Hill played in 12 games in 2003 mostly on special teams, made no starts, and did not record a reception. He missed the Colorado game after returning home to cope with the death of his father who passed away that week. Hill started all 11 games for Washington State in 2004, caught 45 passes for 1,007 yards (22.4 average), and scored 12 touchdowns. In 2005, Hill played in 10 of 11 games, missing the Stanford game (10/8) with a bruised quad, caught 62 passes for 1,062 yards and 13 touchdowns. He finished 2006 with 41 catches for 600 yards (14.6 average) with a team-leading seven touchdowns despite missing the final two and a half games because of an ankle injury.
Hill is not very explosive after the catch, his routes need polishing and he still drops too many "catchable" passes. However, he possesses the size, speed, leaping ability and playmaking skills to make an impact as a vertical receiver in the NFL. In our opinion, Hill projects as a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver in the NFL, which is why he grades out as a second-to-third round prospect in the 2007 class.

Ray McDonald
DE | (6'3", 276, 4.85) | FLORIDA

Scouts Grade: 85

Flags: (D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 3
Pick (Overall): 34(97)
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Strengths: Possesses good athleticism for his size. A versatile prospect with experience at defensive end and defensive tackle. He has some upside as an interior pass rusher because of his initial quickness and burst. He shows good upper body power and flashes some power moves as a pass rusher. He gives a good effort in terms of pursuing the run. He is at his best in space and shows good mobility. Is a solid wrap-up tackler with some power at the point of attack. He is a hard worker on and off the field. Plays the game with a lot of passion.

Weaknesses: Durability is the biggest concern after missing the majority of the 2005 season with two separate knee injuries. Lacks ideal top-end speed as a perimeter pass rusher but also lacks the size of an every-down defensive tackle in the NFL. He needs to play with more consistent leverage. When he comes out of his stance too high he becomes much less effective anchoring versus the run.

Overall: McDonald was redshirted in 2002 while practicing at defensive end. He moved to defensive tackle for the 2003 season, won a starting spot for the year (12 games), made 54 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks, and forced two fumbles. McDonald played in 11 games in 2004 (seven starts), recorded 39 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one fumble recovery. In 2005, he switched back to defensive end, started the first three games before having knee surgery that forced him to sit out the next three contests. McDonald returned, appearing in two more games before having season-ending left knee surgery. For the year, he made eight tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack. In 2006 he started all 14 games, registering 36 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, one blocked kick, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.
McDonald is a 'tweener DE/DT prospect with experience at both positions at the collegiate level. While he may be forced to settle on one position in the NFL, we think he has the potential to contribute in a hybrid role in the right system. He is quick enough to make an impact as an interior pass rusher, but he must improve his lower-body strength and technique versus the run in order to compete for an every-down role in the NFL. Regardless, McDonald is a fringe first-round talent that will likely slip to the second round due to his history of knee injuries.

Jay Moore
DE | (6'4", 274, 4.92) | NEBRASKA

Scouts Grade: 68

Flags: (S: SPEED) Player lacks ideal speed at position Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 4
Pick (Overall): 5(104)
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Strengths: Display good overall size and strength as a traditional defensive end prospect. Plays with adequate leverage and shows enough of a base to take on blockers when teams run at him. He has long arms and adequate upper body strength to maintain separation. He plays with a great motor and shows a lot of toughness. Displays adequate power as a bull rusher. Relentless in pursuit and will provide some pressure on quarterbacks because of his effort. A hard worker on-and-off the field. Maximizes his physical tools because of his high effort and attention to detail.

Weaknesses: Possesses adequate straight-line speed but lacks ideal closing burst to the quarterback. He will never possess the explosiveness or agility to consistently turn the corner as a perimeter pass rusher in the NFL. Possesses below average athleticism and can look stiff when forced to quickly change directions and pursue. Doesn't appear to possess the fluidity to flip his hips in coverage as a rush-linebacker type in a 3-4 scheme. He will miss some tackles in space because of his inability to redirect. Displays limited range versus the run.

Overall: Moore was redshirted as a freshman in 2002 and did not see game action as a reserve defensive end in his redshirt freshman season in 2003. As a sophomore in 2004, Moore played in every game and started four (Weeks 3-6), finishing with 21 total tackles, including seven tackles for loss and three sacks. Moore took over as a fulltime starter in 2005, when he finished with 37 tackles, 14 tackles for loss and three sacks in 12 games. In 2006 he started all 14 games and made 45 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and had six sacks.
Moore has been a more consistent performer than teammate Adam Carriker throughout their respective careers at Nebraska, but it's obvious that Carriker possesses far more upside as an NFL prospect. Moore has enough size, strength, straight-line quickness and toughness to develop into a contributor at the next level. However, he lacks the pass-rushing burst of an every-down starter at defensive end in a 4-3 scheme and he doesn't appear to be athletic enough to make the transition to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, either. In our opinion, Moore has value in the third-to-fourth round range as a potential backup defensive end and special team's contributor.

Dashon Goldson
S | (6'2", 205, 4.6) | WASHINGTON

Scouts Grade: 51

Flags: (S: SPEED) Player lacks ideal speed at position Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 4
Pick (Overall): 27(126)
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Strengths: Shows good awareness, reads quarterback's eyes and rarely gets caught out of position when dropping into zone coverage. Times hits well and flashes the ability to punish receivers over the middle. Plays with a mean streak, fills hard when reads run and flashes the ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Squares up to ball carrier, wraps up upon contact and doesn't miss many open field tackles. Has experience lining up at corner and is somewhat versatile.

Weaknesses: Takes too long to open hips when forced to turn and run downfield and lacks the second gear to recover once the receiver gets a step on him. Though flashes good upper body strength and the ability to redirect receivers, footwork is inconsistent and receivers will have some success getting a clean release working against him. Isn't fast enough to run with most receivers as well as quality receiving tight ends in man coverage and lacks the range to consistently cover the deep half of the field. Though flashes adequate ball skills isn't a playmaker in coverage. Lacks elite size and isn't big enough to consistently line up in the box. Missed 2004 spring practice recovering from shoulder surgery, slowed by an ankle injury in 2005 and durability is somewhat of a concern.

Overall: Goldson signed with Washington as a prep but attended Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College in 2003 where he registered 99 total tackles and two interceptions to earn a first team National Junior College Athletic Association All-American selection. He then transferred to Washington, missed 2004 spring practice after having shoulder surgery, but returned to start all 11 games in the fall collecting 64 total tackles including two for loss, two interceptions, seven passes defended, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. In 2005, Goldson again started all 11 contests and posted 80 total tackles, three tackles for loss, one interception returned 76 yards for a touchdown, four passes defended, and one fumble recovery. He moved to cornerback during spring practice in 2006, played in 11 of 12 games and made 50 total tackles including two for loss, intercepted one pass, broke up 10 passes, and recovered one fumble earning honorable mention All-Pac 10 recognition.

Goldson lacks ideal man-to-man cover skills and he didn't have great production at the collegiate level. However, he battled an ankle injury as a senior in 2006 and he looked far more athletic when recovered at the East-West Shrine game. Furthermore, he is a sound open field tackler who has the size and instincts to develop into a contributor for a team that can protect him in coverage. Goldson has some versatility as a potential sub-package defensive back that can play some cornerback in a cover-2 scheme. Overall, Goldson has enough upside to warrant consideration in the early portion of Day 2.

Joe Cohen
DE | (6'2", 313, 5.1) | FLORIDA

Scouts Grade: 39 Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 4
Pick (Overall): 36(135)
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Strengths: Possesses a good combination of bulk and agility. Continues to add weight and is starting to project better as a one-gap DT prospect in terms of NFL potential. He shows good initial quickness out of his stance and flashes explosive power to knock offensive linemen back on their heels when he stays low.

Weaknesses: He is a bit of a misfit without a true position. Has spent time playing defensive end and defensive tackle at Florida, but has major deficiencies at both positions. He lacks ideal size as an interior prospect. Does a poor job of using his hands to keep separation and allows linemen to get into his pads too easily. He gets rag-dolled too easily when teams run at him. He is quick as an interior pass rusher but lacks top-end speed as an edge rusher. Seems to lack instincts as a pass rusher. Needs to improve his array of moves and do a better job of getting off of blocks once reached.

Overall: Cohen appeared in 10 games as a true freshman in 2003, mostly as an H-back, missed one game with a hamstring injury, carried once for no gain, and recorded one tackle. He moved to defensive end in 2004, started all 12 games finishing with 28 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one forced fumble. In 2005, Cohen played in all 12 games (started the final nine), made 15 total tackles, four tackles for loss, one sack, and one interception. He appeared in all 14 games (12 starts) during the 2006 season and finished with 26 tackles, two tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.
Cohen is a bit of a 'tweener DE/DT prospect with inadequate size as an every-down DT and inadequate speed as an every-down DE prospect. Regardless, he is a decent athlete for his size and he has enough talent to develop into a versatile reserve in the NFL if properly motivated and coached. Cohen projects as a late-round pick in the 2007 class.

Tarell Brown
CB | (5'10", 190, 4.45) | TEXAS

Scouts Grade: 73

Flags: (C: CHARACTER) Problems on and off the field(D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 5
Pick (Overall): 10(147)
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Strengths: Possesses adequate-to-good size and displays fluid hips in man-to-man coverage. Gets good knee bend when back pedaling and shows excellent closing speed. Plays with a mean streak, times hits well and flashes the ability to deliver the big hit. While he frequently plays off the line, he has shown good upper body strength and flashes the ability to slow receivers down at the line. Possesses adequate ball skills and flashes the ability to make the big play in coverage. Though he doesn't always show great footwork, he can change directions quickly and shows good burst getting out of cuts. Possesses adequate top-end speed and flashes the ability to run with faster receivers. Is willing in run support and is a sound open field tackler that flashes the ability to make plays in the backfield. Plays with a good motor and always seems to be around the ball at the end of the play. Has experience returning punts and can cover kicks so should contribute on special teams.

Weaknesses: Can be overaggressive, gets turned around at times and is inconsistent. Lacks ideal instincts, is vulnerable to double moves and lacks the second gear to recover once caught out of position. Doesn't always take good pursuit angles and gets caught out of position at times. Character must be evaluated closely after one-game suspension (Ohio State) in 2006. Durability is a concern, broke his arm in the 2006 Rose Bowl, missed 2006 spring practices and suffered a broken bone in his foot during the 2006 regular season.

Overall: Brown appeared in all 13 games (backup corner, special teams) as a true freshman in 2003 and made nine total tackles and one pass breakup. In 2004, he started all 12 games registering 38 total tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, two interceptions, and three pass breakups. Brown started 12 of 13 games in 2005 finishing the season with 70 total tackles, two tackles for loss, one interception, eight pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. He broke his right arm during the Rose Bowl against USC and did not participate in contact drills in the spring. He came back in 2006 and started 11 of 13 games, recording 53 total tackles, one tackle for loss, eight pass breakups, and one forced fumble. Brown was suspended for the Ohio State game due to his role in an incident involving a hand gun and marijuana and missed the Baylor contest due to injury. Brown has also returned 12 kickoffs for 233 yards (19.4 average) over the past three seasons.
Brown did not live up to expectations as a senior. He was suspended for a game and he was hobbled by a broken bone in his foot. He remains unpolished and he must work on reading his keys. Despite all the negatives that surrounded Brown during his final year at Texas, Brown is still a very good natural cover corner when he's healthy and focused. He possesses enough size, speed, athletic ability and tenacity to develop into a starting man-to-man cover corner in the NFL. Brown will slip due to character concerns and misevaluation as a senior, but he could turn out to be a steal in the third or fourth round

.

There's a definite "Frank Gore" factor here at work. Taking injury-prone guys from big name schools. I really don't mind the philosophy, especially with late round guys. Most guys who get recruited to big schools do so because they have very good talent. Then, they get ignored in the shuffle due to injury or just having someone better on the squad. However, I believe that most injuries are more bad luck than bad conditioning (although each human being has different levels for how their muscles/bones react to contact). So, I can see a couple of these guys with legitimate talent working out to at least be good back-ups if not decent starters for the 49er's.

[JeeberD]

A kicker for the Cowboys. Hopefully he can add some stability to the position...

[RedKingGold]

Originally Posted by QuikSand

Can't think of a better spot for him, really.

Yeah, he'll get to learn from McNair for a season or two and might get a shot at some playing time before the Ravens decide if they need to draft another QB. Really, a low risk potentially high reward pick.

[RedKingGold]

ILB HB Blades (picked in 6th by Washington) is a solid special team guy who I thought someone would take a look at in the late 4th-early 5th round. Nice pick by the Redskins (who did not have many).

[Logan]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

49er's Fans, here's what Scout's Inc. thinks of each of our prospects:

.

There's a definite "Frank Gore" factor here at work. Taking injury-prone guys from big name schools. I really don't mind the philosophy, especially with late round guys. Most guys who get recruited to big schools do so because they have very good talent. Then, they get ignored in the shuffle due to injury or just having someone better on the squad. However, I believe that most injuries are more bad luck than bad conditioning (although each human being has different levels for how their muscles/bones react to contact). So, I can see a couple of these guys with legitimate talent working out to at least be good back-ups if not decent starters for the 49er's.

Thanks for the info...those are some pretty high grades for Willis, Staley and McDonald. And you're right, Nolan is all about big name school guys. I love the Tarell Brown pick. If he stays out of trouble, he could be a starter relatively soon. The pick of Goldson is a little puzzling, but they must think he projects well as a safety.

[Logan]

Originally Posted by JeeberD

A kicker for the Cowboys. Hopefully he can add some stability to the position...

Two kickers drafted, none being Crosby. What's up with that? I feel like the kicker position isn't where we usually see scouts having differing opinions.

[RendeR]

So whats the story on RB irons out of Auburn? bengals.com says he's a speedster with lots of variables to bring to the game. I've never heard of the guy. Anyone seen him play that can reassure me we haven't wasted yet another draft pick on a scat-back?

[johnnyshaka]

Hmmm...Siler's still out there...WOW!

Is there something about him that the "experts" don't know and that the NFL cronies do know?

[RedKingGold]

Also, the Niner's deal for Jackson is complete:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft0...ory?id=2851912

So, this off-season, the 49er's have added:

WR Ashley Lelie
WR Darrell Jackson
LB Tully Banta-Cain
DT Aubrayo Franklin
CB Nate Clements
SS Michael Lewis

All will probably start, plus draft picks. I know that the Niner's aren't locked in for the playoffs, but you all have to agree they have much more talent on the squad this season than last.

[RedKingGold]

Originally Posted by RendeR

So whats the story on RB irons out of Auburn? bengals.com says he's a speedster with lots of variables to bring to the game. I've never heard of the guy. Anyone seen him play that can reassure me we haven't wasted yet another draft pick on a scat-back?

From Scouts, Inc.

Kenny Irons
RB | (5'10", 203, 4.45) | AUBURN

Scouts Grade: 84

Flags: (B: BULK/SIZE) Lacks size/bulk for position(D: DURABILITY) Player that can't stay healthy Selected by: Cincinnati Bengals
Round: 2
Pick (Overall): 17(49)
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Strengths: A shifty downhill runner. He shows good initial quickness and burst through the hole. Is fast enough to consistently turn the corner as an outside runner. Displays impressive body control and change-of-direction skills. His vision and patience as a runner are very good and should only improve with more experience. He reads blocks very well, particularly when working in I-formation behind a fullback. Shows a second gear in the open field and also make defenders miss with effective spin-move in space. Runs harder than "measurables" would indicate. Very competitive. Drives his legs after initial contact and will break lots of tackles with his lower-body strength. Shows a knack for falling forward at the end of runs. Has upside if his route-running skills improve with more experience. He gives a good effort and will get in position as a blocker in pass pro.

Weaknesses: Lacks ideal size. Possesses decent height and below average bulk. Needs to get bigger and stronger in order to carry a full load in the NFL. Runs a bit high at times. Does not show the size/strength to consistently run over defenders one-on-one in space. Durability is a concern, especially after nagging injuries limited his carries in 2006. Gives a good effort as a blocker but struggles to hold his ground and will get run over at times by bigger blitzing linebackers. Gets knocked back into the quarterback too frequently. His hands are inconsistent and he needs work in that department. Lacks ideal experience as a receiver and still needs work in terms of his recognition skills and overall route running.

Overall: Irons originally attended South Carolina and saw action as a true freshman in 2002 in nine games, making one start. He rushed for 201 yards on 47 carries (4.3 average) and caught four passes for 63 yards and one touchdown. In 2003, Irons played in only five games with one start. He tallied 51 yards on 19 carries and one touchdown on the ground with two catches for eight yards. Irons then transferred to Auburn and sat out the 2004 season. In 2005, Irons played in 12 games and made nine starts. He finished the year with team-high totals in carries (256), rushing yards (1,293), and rushing touchdowns (13) and averaged just over five yards per carry. He also caught 14 passes for 164 yards. Irons started 11 of 13 games in 2006, missing the Buffalo game with a sprained toe and ankle and the Tulane game with a gimpy ankle, and carried the ball 198 times for 893 yards (4.5 average) and four touchdowns and caught 10 passes for 78 yards.
Irons displays an impressive combination of power, vision and speed when healthy, and he proved capable of being Auburn's premier back in 2005. However, while he showed toughness in attempting to play through nagging injuries as a senior, his production tailed off considerably. Doubts regarding his ability to carry a fulltime load in the NFL have increased. As a result, Irons' stock has dipped and he likely will slip to the bottom-half of the second round.

[RedKingGold]

Originally Posted by johnnyshaka

Hmmm...Siler's still out there...WOW!

Is there something about him that the "experts" don't know and that the NFL cronies do know?

Betcha he goes to the 49er's if he lasts that long.

[Logan]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

Also, the Niner's deal for Jackson is complete:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft0...ory?id=2851912

So, this off-season, the 49er's have added:

WR Ashley Lelie
WR Darrell Jackson
LB Tully Banta-Cain
DT Aubrayo Franklin
CB Nate Clements
SS Michael Lewis

All will probably start, plus draft picks. I know that the Niner's aren't locked in for the playoffs, but you all have to agree they have much more talent on the squad this season than last.

I have a sneaking suspicion that Hill will end up ahead of Lelie on the depth chart.

[JeeberD]

Nice to see Kasey Studdard get drafted. He went to the high school I graduated from, and was one of the stars of the one time the team was decent. Hopefully he can help the pitiful Texans o-line...

[DeToxRox]

Kenny Irons could be Rudi Johnson. Auburn packs flat out produce. You honestly can't go wrong with an Auburn back.

[QuikSand]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

ILB HB Blades (picked in 6th by Washington) is a solid special team guy who I thought someone would take a look at in the late 4th-early 5th round. Nice pick by the Redskins (who did not have many).

HB Blades sounds like a Tecmo Super Bowl name to me.

Hell, if he's half as good a QB Eagles was, that's a huge steal for them.

[Logan]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

Betcha he goes to the 49er's if he lasts that long.

I think they take a RB here. Walker from ND? Wynn from UF?

edit: Hmm...Clayton from KSU. I actually don't remember him from Rutgers bowl game, but then again, their offense did nothing that game. Another character concern apparently.

[Logan]

Originally Posted by QuikSand

HB Blades sounds like a Tecmo Super Bowl name to me.

Because his dad was in the game?

[RedKingGold]

Originally Posted by Logan

I think they take a RB here. Walker from ND? Wynn from UF?

Good call, but I don't like this one at all:

Thomas Clayton
RB | (5'10", 218, 4.63) | KANSAS STATE

Scouts Grade: 32

Flags: (C: CHARACTER) Problems on and off the field(U: UNDERACHIEVER) Player that doesn't play up to ability Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 6
Pick (Overall): 12(186)
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Strengths: Possesses adequate lower body strength, runs hard and can pick up yards after contact. Has added bulk to frame during collegiate career and now has good size. Possesses adequate-to-good straight-line speed. Accelerates well, is quick enough to turn the corner and shows good burst through the hole when is decisive. Shows a second gear in the open field and flashes the ability to break the long run given a seam. Catches the ball fairly well and can produce after the catch.

Weaknesses: Doesn't always read blocks well and dances in the hole too much. Tries to make too much happen when the hole isn't there and needs to be more efficient. He is not a physical runner and will run out of bounds too frequently instead of taking on defenders for extra yards at the end of runs. He shows good initial quickness and straight-line burst, but he is a bit tight in the hips and does not display good lateral mobility. Has some problems holding onto the football and needs to practice better ball security at times. His pass pro technique and effort are below average. He has major attitude and character issues. Arrested for aggravated battery early in the 2005 season and Kansas State suspended him for a game consequently so character is somewhat of an issue. He was suspended once again in 2006 by new head coach Ron Prince and he was demoted to third-string running back during the second half of his senior season.

Overall: Clayton originally attended FSU in the fall of 2002, appeared in four games, rushed for 45 yards on 13 carries, and had one reception for seven yards. He then decided to transfer to Kansas State and sat out the 2003 season. Clayton saw action in 10 games in 2004 as a reserve running back and on special teams, carrying 14 times for 71 yards. In 2005, Clayton played in nine of Kansas State's 11 games, making eight starts. He was held out of the Texas State game by Kansas State's coaching staff as a result of an on campus incident (charged with aggravated battery after driving away from and allegedly grazing a campus parking services employee.). He posted team highs in carries (137) and rushing yards (637) while averaging 4.6 yards per carry and scored four rushing touchdowns. He also caught 12 passes for 73 yards and one touchdown. Clayton has also been suspended for one game (2006 opener vs. Illinois State) following a misdemeanor battery conviction, stemming from aforementioned 2005 incident. He played sparingly in 2006, appearing in only five games, with four starts, after his demotion to third string and finished the season with 67 carries for 322 yards (4.8 average) and three touchdowns and nine receptions for 45 yards.
Clayton has the natural ability to contribute in the NFL but his collegiate career tailed off badly the past two seasons. He is indecisive as a runner at times and he has a history of fumbling the ball. Clayton also has major off-the-field and character concerns that could prevent him from being drafted at all.

[RedKingGold]

It appears that Nolan isn't exactly taking advice from Marvin Lewis (who were both ironically on the same staff with the Ravens)

[JeeberD]

Originally Posted by Logan

Because his dad was in the game?

I'm thinking it's more his first name/initials being a position, kinda like QB Browns, etc.

[SFL Cat]

With Moss going to New England rather than Green Bay, does that mean Favre will change his mind again and actually retire?

[Logan]

Originally Posted by RedKingGold

It appears that Nolan isn't exactly taking advice from Marvin Lewis (who were both ironically on the same staff with the Ravens)

Interesting because Nolan hasn't even hesitated with sending "problem" players off the team. Let's hope that the new conduct policy caused the staff to do their research and decide that they want to stick with these guys. And I also work with a Thomas Clayton...he's a pretty nice guy.

Originally Posted by JeeberD

I'm thinking it's more his first name/initials being a position, kinda like QB Browns, etc.

Haha, yeah my bad.

[Celeval]

What, are the Browns' and Cowboys' war rooms next door to each other? Adjoining windows?

[TazFTW]

Originally Posted by Celeval

What, are the Browns' and Cowboys' war rooms next door to each other? Adjoining windows?

Did the Cowboys just trade up? For a fullback?

[Celeval]

Originally Posted by TazFTW

Did the Cowboys just trade up? For a fullback?

Looks like. Cowboys send 7th (#234) and 6th (#200) to Cleveland for 6th (#195).