Mel Kiper's Big Board

[yankeessuck013]

since the pats season is over I took the liberty of posting this article for you guys for those of you w/o insider...

 

Justice makes the big board

By Mel Kiper Jr.

Special to ESPN Insider

 

Oh, how the Big Board is a changing! Right now, 15 underclassmen are carrying first round grades according to my rankings, with 10 others projected as second rounders.

 

We are still waiting on several potential early rounders to make their decisions known. Remember, junior's and third year sophomores (as was the case with South Carolina DB Ko Simpson) have until January 15th to decide whether to move into the 2006 NFL Draft process or return to college for another season.

 

As of now 13 underclassmen are in my current Top 25, with five others ever so close to making a move onto the Big Board. Obviously, film evaluation is taking place every day, so you can expect to see a few minor changes over the next month or so with the underclassmen. The all-star games are now upon us and that's when you will see some shifting of personnel from the senior class on the Big Board. Then comes the Combine Workout February, followed by individual testing.

 

That's why just about every week leading up to Draft Day on April 29th, you will see changes on the Big Board as well as with any first round projections. By the way, I will have my initial First Round projection coming up on Tuesday, January 17th.

 

My entire Big Board:

 

1. Reggie Bush, USC (6-0, 200 pounds) | previous rank: unranked(Junior)

He will give the team who drafts him a multi-faceted offensive attack as he will be dangerous from backfield, as a slot receiver and as a returner.

 

2. Matt Leinart, QB, USC (6-4, 225 pounds) | previous rank: 1

His arm strength has improved since last season, and he is throwing the ball even better. Leinart might not have repeated as the Heisman Trophy winner, but he makes plays when he has to. He should remain at the top of the draft board.

 

3. Vince Young, QB, Texas (6-5, 233) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

Young's stock has risen considerably after an amazing performance in the Rose Bowl. He's big, strong and exceptionally fast. The New Orleans Saints will have to at least consider taking him as the No. 2 pick in the draft.

 

4. Mario Williams, DE, NC State (6-7, 285) | previous rank: 3 (Junior)

A dominant physical presence and had some great individual performances at the end of year. Williams is a big, strong pro-type defensive end and has all skills NFL coaches are looking for.

 

5. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia (6-5?, 295) | previous rank: 3

Came back from a knee injury and still remains the top offensive lineman on the board. Ideal left tackle in the NFL.

 

6. A.J. Hawk, LB, Ohio State (6-1?, 242) | previous rank: 4

The top defensive player in the senior class. An instinctive player and a sure tackler, he knows which angles to take to the ball and finds his way through traffic very well.

 

7. DeMeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama (6-1?, 235) | previous rank: 5

Leader of the Crimson Tide defense. Has impressed in the Tide's biggest games this season. Alabama's defense did all it could to try to keep undefeated season alive.

 

8. Tamba Hali, DE, Penn State (6-3, 267) | previous rank: 6

Has been at the top of his game all year. Hali is the best player on one of the best defenses in the country. A natural pass-rusher who has been fun to watch all season.

 

9. Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland (6-3, 250) | previous rank: 7 (Junior)

Physically gifted athlete who plays the tight end like a wide receiver. Davis is a phenomenal pass catcher and is a better prospect than when Kellen Winslow came out of Miami.

 

10. Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon (6-5, 338) | previous rank: unranked

He finished the season with three sacks and nine tackles for losses this season, while ranking sixth on the Ducks in total tackles with 61, including 32 unassisted.

 

11. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis (5-9, 215) | previous rank: 8 (Junior)

Third in the nation in rushing yards per game, despite not playing behind one of the best offensive lines. Could very well be a top-10 pick.

 

12. LenDale White RB, USC (6-2, 235) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

He's big, strong and deceptively fast with a nose for the endzone.

 

13. Michael Huff, DB, Texas (6-1, 205) | previous rank: 9

Athletic and instinctive, he has shown the versatility to play cornerback or safety at the next level.

 

14. Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt (6-3?, 227) | previous rank: 10

Second-best senior QB on the board behind Matt Leinart. Has the potential to be a first-round pick, depending on how he performs in the Senior Bowl and individual workouts.

 

Laurence Maroney

Laurence Maroney rushed for 3,933 in three years at Minnesota.

15 Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota (5-11, 205) | previous rank: 13 (Junior)

A very good natural runner who is very smooth and patient. At Minnesota, Maroney allowed his blocks to get set up and develop. He has good vision and the ability to shift gears quickly.

 

16. Santonio Holmes, WR, Ohio State (5-10, 185) | previous rank: 11 (Junior)

He is very tough and is willing to make catches in traffic. Holmes is a very good route runner and has a good burst out of his break. Holmes doesn't have the greatest size, but is very tough.

 

17. Leonard Pope, TE, Georgia (6-7, 250) | previous rank: 12 (Junior)

He's an absolutely huge target and is a mismatch every time he's on the field. Georgia relied heavily on Pope in the passing game because he is a rare talent for a player of his size.

 

18. Winston Justice OT, USC (6-6, 311) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

A great athlete and very gifted, Justice is as good as any right tackle in the country at getting downfield beyond the defensive line.

 

19. Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa (6-2?, 244) | previous rank: 15

Has become one of the nation's topflight linebackers the past two years. A smart player with great physical skills, Greenway knows how to find the ball and can go all over the field to get to it.

 

20. Ernie Sims, LB, Florida State (6-0, 200) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

Sims finished fourth on FSU with 70 stops this season. He's an extremely fast and 'backer who's used to being the focus of opposing offenses game plans.

 

21. Jimmy Williams, CB, Virginia Tech (6-2?, 207) | previous rank: 14

Gives the Hokies a shutdown cornerback who can lock up the opposing team's top receiver. He eliminates one side of the field. A former safety who moved to corner before the 2004 season.

 

22. Ashton Youboty, CB, Ohio St. (6-1, 188) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

The first team All-Big Ten selection has very good cover skills and has excellent on field intelligence .

 

23. Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College (6-5?, 260) | previous rank: 16

Came back from an injury against Virginia during season. A tremendous talent who needs to polish his pass-rushing skills.

 

24. Ko Simpson, DB, South Carolina (6-1, 201) | previous rank: unranked (third year sophomore)

The former freshman All-America completed his sophomore season with 103 tackles and one interception.

 

25. Orien Harris, DT, Miami (6-3, 307) | previous rank: 19

Blessed with a ton of talent, Harris has bounced back from a subpar junior campaign. He has maximized his ability on a consistent basis in 2005.

 

DROPPED

 

Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State (6-1?, 203) | previous rank: 17

A precise route runner who will come into the NFL in 2006 with a great understanding of what is expected to be an immediate contributor.

 

Thomas Howard, LB, UTEP (6-2?, 233) | previous rank: 19

Has come a long way since his days as a walk-on defensive back. UTEP's best defensive player, Howard is a gifted athlete with 4.4 speed who covers the field from sideline to sideline.

 

Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami (5-8? 183) | previous rank: 20

Can turn a short completion into a coast-to-coast TD. Not great size, but Moss has great speed and should excel at the next level.

 

Chad Jackson, WR, Florida (6-1, 205) | previous rank: 21 (Junior)

Has the ability to make a play after the catch. Jackson averaged 22.3 yards per catch as a sophomore and had 81 receptions in 2005. Worked the underneath routes for Chris Leak very well and kept chains moving in 2005.

 

Ryan O'Callaghan, OT, California (6-6?, 340) | previous rank: 22

Depending on who comes out early, O'Callaghan could end up being the highest-rated right tackle prospect in the draft. Prototype right tackle at the next level. Very tough; he played through a broken wrist for most of 2004 and battled through a concussion in '05.

 

Claude Wroten, DT, LSU (6-2, 293) | previous rank: 23

Solid and reliable, Wroten has given LSU consistent play throughout the season.

 

Brodrick Bunkley, DT, Florida State (6-2? 305) | previous rank: 24

Combines strength with quickness and a relentless approach. A very effective pass-rusher for an interior lineman.

 

Kyle Williams, DT, LSU (6-1?, 294) | previous rank: 25

Consistent and productive, he gets overshadowed at times by teammate Claude Wroten, who lines up next to him on the defensive line. Williams never disappears from the action.

 

Mel's Top 5 Juniors

Quarterbacks

1. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame

2. Drew Stanton, Michigan St.

3. Troy Smith, Ohio St.

4. Jordan Palmer, UTEP

5. John Beck, BYU

 

Running Backs

1. Michael Bush, Louisville

2. Kenny Irons, Auburn

3. Tony Hunt, Penn St.

4. Brian Leonard, Rutgers

5. Courtney Lewis, Texas A&M

5a. Kenneth Darby, Alabama

 

Wide Receivers

1. Jeff Samardzija, Notre Dame

2. Cory Rodgers, TCU

3. Jason Hill, Washington St.

4. Jarrett Hicks, Texas Tech

5. Steve Smith, USC

5a. Joel Filani, Texas Tech

5b. Courtney Taylor, Auburn

 

Tight Ends

1. Clark Harris, Rutgers

2. Martrez Milner, Georgia

3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota

4. Ben Patrick, Duke

5. Joe Newton, Oregon St.

 

Offensive linemen

1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin

2. Levi Brown, Penn St.

3. Justin Blalock, Texas

4. Kyle Young, Fresno St.

5. Doug Free, No. Illinois

 

Place-Kickers

1. Mason Crosby, Colorado

2. Justin Medlock, UCLA

3. Mike Barrow, Idaho

4. Brandon Pace, Virginia Tech

5. Andrew Wellock, Eastern Michigan

5a. Kyle Schlicher, Iowa

5b. John Deraney, NC St.

 

Defensive linemen

1. Gaines Adams, Clemson

2. Adam Carriker, Nebraska

3. Kareem Brown, Miami (Fla)

4. Quentin Moses, Georgia

5. LaMarr Woodley, Michigan

5a. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame

5b. Mkristo Bruce, Washington St.

 

Linebackers

1. Paul Posluszny, Penn St.

2. Patrick Willis, Mississippi

3. Ahmad Brooks, Virginia

4. Oscar Lua, USC

5. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma

5a. Prescott Burgess, Michigan

5b. H.B. Blades, Pittsburgh

5c. Anthony Waters, Clemson

 

Defensive backs

1. LaRon Landry, LSU

2. Brandon Meriweather, Miami (Fla)

3. Michael Griffin, Texas

4. Darnell Bing, USC

5. Eric Weddle, Utah

 

Punters

1. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor

2. Adam Graessle, Pittsburgh

3. Brandon Fields, Michigan St.

4. Adam Podlesh, Maryland

[Beckett95]

since the pats season is over I took the liberty of posting this article for you guys for those of you w/o insider...

 

Justice makes the big board

By Mel Kiper Jr.

Special to ESPN Insider

 

Oh, how the Big Board is a changing! Right now, 15 underclassmen are carrying first round grades according to my rankings, with 10 others projected as second rounders.

 

We are still waiting on several potential early rounders to make their decisions known. Remember, junior's and third year sophomores (as was the case with South Carolina DB Ko Simpson) have until January 15th to decide whether to move into the 2006 NFL Draft process or return to college for another season.

 

As of now 13 underclassmen are in my current Top 25, with five others ever so close to making a move onto the Big Board. Obviously, film evaluation is taking place every day, so you can expect to see a few minor changes over the next month or so with the underclassmen. The all-star games are now upon us and that's when you will see some shifting of personnel from the senior class on the Big Board. Then comes the Combine Workout February, followed by individual testing.

 

That's why just about every week leading up to Draft Day on April 29th, you will see changes on the Big Board as well as with any first round projections. By the way, I will have my initial First Round projection coming up on Tuesday, January 17th.

 

My entire Big Board:

 

1. Reggie Bush, USC (6-0, 200 pounds) | previous rank: unranked(Junior)

He will give the team who drafts him a multi-faceted offensive attack as he will be dangerous from backfield, as a slot receiver and as a returner.

 

2. Matt Leinart, QB, USC (6-4, 225 pounds) | previous rank: 1

His arm strength has improved since last season, and he is throwing the ball even better. Leinart might not have repeated as the Heisman Trophy winner, but he makes plays when he has to. He should remain at the top of the draft board.

 

3. Vince Young, QB, Texas (6-5, 233) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

Young's stock has risen considerably after an amazing performance in the Rose Bowl. He's big, strong and exceptionally fast. The New Orleans Saints will have to at least consider taking him as the No. 2 pick in the draft.

 

4. Mario Williams, DE, NC State (6-7, 285) | previous rank: 3 (Junior)

A dominant physical presence and had some great individual performances at the end of year. Williams is a big, strong pro-type defensive end and has all skills NFL coaches are looking for.

 

5. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia (6-5½, 295) | previous rank: 3

Came back from a knee injury and still remains the top offensive lineman on the board. Ideal left tackle in the NFL.

 

6. A.J. Hawk, LB, Ohio State (6-1½, 242) | previous rank: 4

The top defensive player in the senior class. An instinctive player and a sure tackler, he knows which angles to take to the ball and finds his way through traffic very well.

 

7. DeMeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama (6-1½, 235) | previous rank: 5

Leader of the Crimson Tide defense. Has impressed in the Tide's biggest games this season. Alabama's defense did all it could to try to keep undefeated season alive.

 

8. Tamba Hali, DE, Penn State (6-3, 267) | previous rank: 6

Has been at the top of his game all year. Hali is the best player on one of the best defenses in the country. A natural pass-rusher who has been fun to watch all season.

 

9. Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland (6-3, 250) | previous rank: 7 (Junior)

Physically gifted athlete who plays the tight end like a wide receiver. Davis is a phenomenal pass catcher and is a better prospect than when Kellen Winslow came out of Miami.

 

10. Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon (6-5, 338) | previous rank: unranked

He finished the season with three sacks and nine tackles for losses this season, while ranking sixth on the Ducks in total tackles with 61, including 32 unassisted.

 

11. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis (5-9, 215) | previous rank: 8 (Junior)

Third in the nation in rushing yards per game, despite not playing behind one of the best offensive lines. Could very well be a top-10 pick.

 

12. LenDale White RB, USC (6-2, 235) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

He's big, strong and deceptively fast with a nose for the endzone.

 

13. Michael Huff, DB, Texas (6-1, 205) | previous rank: 9

Athletic and instinctive, he has shown the versatility to play cornerback or safety at the next level.

 

14. Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt (6-3¼, 227) | previous rank: 10

Second-best senior QB on the board behind Matt Leinart. Has the potential to be a first-round pick, depending on how he performs in the Senior Bowl and individual workouts.

 

Laurence Maroney

Laurence Maroney rushed for 3,933 in three years at Minnesota.

15 Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota (5-11, 205) | previous rank: 13 (Junior)

A very good natural runner who is very smooth and patient. At Minnesota, Maroney allowed his blocks to get set up and develop. He has good vision and the ability to shift gears quickly.

 

16. Santonio Holmes, WR, Ohio State (5-10, 185) | previous rank: 11 (Junior)

He is very tough and is willing to make catches in traffic. Holmes is a very good route runner and has a good burst out of his break. Holmes doesn't have the greatest size, but is very tough.

 

17. Leonard Pope, TE, Georgia (6-7, 250) | previous rank: 12 (Junior)

He's an absolutely huge target and is a mismatch every time he's on the field. Georgia relied heavily on Pope in the passing game because he is a rare talent for a player of his size.

 

18. Winston Justice OT, USC (6-6, 311) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

A great athlete and very gifted, Justice is as good as any right tackle in the country at getting downfield beyond the defensive line.

 

19. Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa (6-2½, 244) | previous rank: 15

Has become one of the nation's topflight linebackers the past two years. A smart player with great physical skills, Greenway knows how to find the ball and can go all over the field to get to it.

 

20. Ernie Sims, LB, Florida State (6-0, 200) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

Sims finished fourth on FSU with 70 stops this season. He's an extremely fast and 'backer who's used to being the focus of opposing offenses game plans.

 

21. Jimmy Williams, CB, Virginia Tech (6-2½, 207) | previous rank: 14

Gives the Hokies a shutdown cornerback who can lock up the opposing team's top receiver. He eliminates one side of the field. A former safety who moved to corner before the 2004 season.

 

22. Ashton Youboty, CB, Ohio St. (6-1, 188) | previous rank: unranked (Junior)

The first team All-Big Ten selection has very good cover skills and has excellent on field intelligence .

 

23. Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Boston College (6-5½, 260) | previous rank: 16

Came back from an injury against Virginia during season. A tremendous talent who needs to polish his pass-rushing skills.

 

24. Ko Simpson, DB, South Carolina (6-1, 201) | previous rank: unranked (third year sophomore)

The former freshman All-America completed his sophomore season with 103 tackles and one interception.

 

25. Orien Harris, DT, Miami (6-3, 307) | previous rank: 19

Blessed with a ton of talent, Harris has bounced back from a subpar junior campaign. He has maximized his ability on a consistent basis in 2005.

 

DROPPED

 

Derek Hagan, WR, Arizona State (6-1½, 203) | previous rank: 17

A precise route runner who will come into the NFL in 2006 with a great understanding of what is expected to be an immediate contributor.

 

Thomas Howard, LB, UTEP (6-2½, 233) | previous rank: 19

Has come a long way since his days as a walk-on defensive back. UTEP's best defensive player, Howard is a gifted athlete with 4.4 speed who covers the field from sideline to sideline.

 

Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami (5-8½ 183) | previous rank: 20

Can turn a short completion into a coast-to-coast TD. Not great size, but Moss has great speed and should excel at the next level.

 

Chad Jackson, WR, Florida (6-1, 205) | previous rank: 21 (Junior)

Has the ability to make a play after the catch. Jackson averaged 22.3 yards per catch as a sophomore and had 81 receptions in 2005. Worked the underneath routes for Chris Leak very well and kept chains moving in 2005.

 

Ryan O'Callaghan, OT, California (6-6½, 340) | previous rank: 22

Depending on who comes out early, O'Callaghan could end up being the highest-rated right tackle prospect in the draft. Prototype right tackle at the next level. Very tough; he played through a broken wrist for most of 2004 and battled through a concussion in '05.

 

Claude Wroten, DT, LSU (6-2, 293) | previous rank: 23

Solid and reliable, Wroten has given LSU consistent play throughout the season.

 

Brodrick Bunkley, DT, Florida State (6-2½ 305) | previous rank: 24

Combines strength with quickness and a relentless approach. A very effective pass-rusher for an interior lineman.

 

Kyle Williams, DT, LSU (6-1½, 294) | previous rank: 25

Consistent and productive, he gets overshadowed at times by teammate Claude Wroten, who lines up next to him on the defensive line. Williams never disappears from the action.

 

Mel's Top 5 Juniors

Quarterbacks

1. Brady Quinn, Notre Dame

2. Drew Stanton, Michigan St.

3. Troy Smith, Ohio St.

4. Jordan Palmer, UTEP

5. John Beck, BYU

 

Running Backs

1. Michael Bush, Louisville

2. Kenny Irons, Auburn

3. Tony Hunt, Penn St.

4. Brian Leonard, Rutgers

5. Courtney Lewis, Texas A&M

5a. Kenneth Darby, Alabama

 

Wide Receivers

1. Jeff Samardzija, Notre Dame

2. Cory Rodgers, TCU

3. Jason Hill, Washington St.

4. Jarrett Hicks, Texas Tech

5. Steve Smith, USC

5a. Joel Filani, Texas Tech

5b. Courtney Taylor, Auburn

 

Tight Ends

1. Clark Harris, Rutgers

2. Martrez Milner, Georgia

3. Matt Spaeth, Minnesota

4. Ben Patrick, Duke

5. Joe Newton, Oregon St.

 

Offensive linemen

1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin

2. Levi Brown, Penn St.

3. Justin Blalock, Texas

4. Kyle Young, Fresno St.

5. Doug Free, No. Illinois

 

Place-Kickers

1. Mason Crosby, Colorado

2. Justin Medlock, UCLA

3. Mike Barrow, Idaho

4. Brandon Pace, Virginia Tech

5. Andrew Wellock, Eastern Michigan

5a. Kyle Schlicher, Iowa

5b. John Deraney, NC St.

 

Defensive linemen

1. Gaines Adams, Clemson

2. Adam Carriker, Nebraska

3. Kareem Brown, Miami (Fla)

4. Quentin Moses, Georgia

5. LaMarr Woodley, Michigan

5a. Victor Abiamiri, Notre Dame

5b. Mkristo Bruce, Washington St.

 

Linebackers

1. Paul Posluszny, Penn St.

2. Patrick Willis, Mississippi

3. Ahmad Brooks, Virginia

4. Oscar Lua, USC

5. Rufus Alexander, Oklahoma

5a. Prescott Burgess, Michigan

5b. H.B. Blades, Pittsburgh

5c. Anthony Waters, Clemson

 

Defensive backs

1. LaRon Landry, LSU

2. Brandon Meriweather, Miami (Fla)

3. Michael Griffin, Texas

4. Darnell Bing, USC

5. Eric Weddle, Utah

 

Punters

1. Daniel Sepulveda, Baylor

2. Adam Graessle, Pittsburgh

3. Brandon Fields, Michigan St.

4. Adam Podlesh, Maryland

 

im hoping ryans falls down to 21

 

mock draft

[guapo34]

The mock draft order was put together before the playoffs started. By winning in the first round I think it puts us behind the teams that lost. I could be wrong, but espns draft list puts us at 21 http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft06/news/story?id=2278820 but says its still subject to the playoffs. I think this would mean that those losing in the first round would jump ahead of us. Anyone know if our exact spot is determined yet?

[schillingouttheks]

I think our exact spot is determined already and set. When they say "still subject to the playoffs," I'm pretty sure they mean the 4 remaining teams to see who wins what.

[guapo34]

Yeah, we're picking 21, but the * was next to every playoffs teams name forever.

[Sox Fan on Cape]

Yeah, we're picking 21, but the * was next to every playoffs teams name forever.

Yup #21, plus we have extra picks in the 3rd ( Ravens ), 4th ( Lions ), 5th ( Raiders ), 6th, and 7th. I wonder what BB is going to do this year, as he does like to wheel and deal.

[jsinger121]

remember we gave up a 3rd round pick i think for starks and a 5th rounder for andre davis.

[Sox Fan on Cape]

remember we gave up a 3rd round pick i think for starks and a 5th rounder for andre davis.

True, but I believe that's the net after our lost free agents Andrucci, and David Patten, I might be leaving someone out.

[spartans]

It would be sweet if we could pick up white from usc. We have like the 22nd pick and white is ranked 25 on most boards. He woul be agreat replacement of c-dill

[Sox Fan on Cape]

It would be sweet if we could pick up white from usc. We have like the 22nd pick and white is ranked 25 on most boards. He woul be agreat replacement of c-dill

We're pretty much stuck with Dillion for a while, we'd take approx. 5 million hit on the salary cap if we released him.

[Beckett95]

remember we gave up a 3rd round pick i think for starks and a 5th rounder for andre davis.

that 3rd round pick was for last years draft

[SchillingIsTheNatural]

I found this interesting today...

 

Chris Mortensen mentioned Jay Cutler as the best QB in the draft over Matt Leinart and Vince Young. Apparently a growing number of NFL teams agree and many don't think he gets past the New Orlean Saints at #2. I find that suprising. Three QBs all worthy of a top 5 spot. Obviously I still don't see any of them going to Houston because in no way shape or form can they change the franchise anymore than David Carr. Still, could be an interesting development...especially if Cutler does well at the combine.

[He Hate Me]

Jay Cutler? LOL Sounds like another Akili Smith.

[yeszir]

Jay Cutler? LOL Sounds like another Akili Smith.

Vanderbilt REPRESENT!

[He Hate Me]

AJ Hawk? Simmons was right, the Madden name generator is alive and kicking.

[See Red]

Cutler is for real. He makes some bad decisions, threw off his backfoot into good coverage a few times in the times I've seen him play, but nothing that he can't work on.

 

I've also seen him complete passes that few people could dream of -- NFL QB's included.

 

I like him more than Leinart for sure.

[yeszir]

Cutler is for real. He makes some bad decisions, threw off his backfoot into good coverage a few times in the times I've seen him play, but nothing that he can't work on.

 

I've also seen him complete passes that few people could dream of -- NFL QB's included.

 

I like him more than Leinart for sure.

Ha, it seems like everyone outside of the Vanderbilt community views this guy as a stellar quarterback. The two games I saw him play in person, he didn't look too impressive to me.

[He Hate Me]

I mean cmon he goes to a school called Vanderbilt. Do you really fear anyone who comes from a school that sounds like its apiece of fabric?

[yeszir]

I mean cmon he goes to a school called Vanderbilt. Do you really fear anyone who comes from a school that sounds like its apiece of fabric?

Fear me. :banned:

[ORS]

I think Cutler's hype has a lot to do with the fact that NFL scouts are more interested in tools than MLB scouts. In baseball, pitcher and hitter individual rate stats are very relevant because it is a one on one competition between the two, so a non-toolsy prospect who has good stats isn't overlooked. Whereas in football, there 10 other offensive players and 11 defensive players that have an affect on the stats of the individual, so someone with good stats/bad tools on a good team won't get full credit for their performance.

[He Hate Me]

Fear me. :banned:

 

uh I love Vanderbilt?

[He Hate Me]

I think Cutler's hype has a lot to do with the fact that NFL scouts are more interested in tools than MLB scouts. In baseball, pitcher and hitter individual rate stats are very relevant because it is a one on one competition between the two, so a non-toolsy prospect who has good stats isn't overlooked. Whereas in football, there 10 other offensive players and 11 defensive players that have an affect on the stats of the individual, so someone with good stats/bad tools on a good team won't get full credit for their performance.

 

Thats a pretty good point actually.

[yankeessuck013]

Sporting News' Mock Draft...

 

http://warroom.sportingnews.com/nfl/draft/sample/2006/mockdraft/1.html

 

21 (21) Patriots

 

DeAngelo Williams RB Memphis

 

The Patriots have other needs, but Williams would be a value pick here. Corey Dillon is aging and broke down last season. Though Kevin Faulk is a nice change-of-pace back, he lacks the tools to be an every-down guy.

[AlexanderTheGreat13]

I think Cutler's hype has a lot to do with the fact that NFL scouts are more interested in tools than MLB scouts. In baseball, pitcher and hitter individual rate stats are very relevant because it is a one on one competition between the two, so a non-toolsy prospect who has good stats isn't overlooked. Whereas in football, there 10 other offensive players and 11 defensive players that have an affect on the stats of the individual, so someone with good stats/bad tools on a good team won't get full credit for their performance.

I agree, the example I like to use is Kyle Bollar. Everyone loved Bollar because he could do things like throw a ball 50 yards from his knees ETC. But when hes gotten on the field hes stunk. Give me the guy like Matt Lienert who might not have the greatest arm but has the touch, leadership and intangbles. With that said.....wait untill the combine and watch Cutler do some amazing stuff. The scouts will go nuts and he will shoot up and be a top 5-10 pick.

[AlexanderTheGreat13]

Sporting News' Mock Draft...

 

http://warroom.sportingnews.com/nfl/draft/sample/2006/mockdraft/1.html

I'm a Titans fan. There is no chance Vince Young slips past them at 3 unless a team offers them a great trade for that #3 pick.

[TheMeanWalrus]

I'm a Titans fan. There is no chance Vince Young slips past them at 3 unless a team offers them a great trade for that #3 pick.

 

 

You're probably right

Young was working out with Steve McNair in the offseason, I believe and McNair loves him, from what I read.

 

Young is an interesting dilemna. . .Much like McNair was ironically.

He needs A LOT of work. His mechanics are horrible, his arm is questionable, his accuracy is non existant for all intents and purposes. But he has the ever important "tremendous upside"

McNair was in the exact same position when he came out. I remember the GM for the Oilers who drafted him saying something after they picked him #3 overall and i think the quote may apply for Vince Young as well. The GM said:

 

"I didn't want to look back on things five years from now and ask myself how I ever passed on this guy"

 

 

My two cents?

I do not think Vince Young is worth the third pick in the draft.

 

He's 2 years minimum to contributing to whatever team takes him

[AlexanderTheGreat13]

You're probably right

Young was working out with Steve McNair in the offseason, I believe and McNair loves him, from what I read.

 

Young is an interesting dilemna. . .Much like McNair was ironically.

He needs A LOT of work. His mechanics are horrible, his arm is questionable, his accuracy is non existant for all intents and purposes. But he has the ever important "tremendous upside"

McNair was in the exact same position when he came out. I remember the GM for the Oilers who drafted him saying something after they picked him #3 overall and i think the quote may apply for Vince Young as well. The GM said:

 

"I didn't want to look back on things five years from now and ask myself how I ever passed on this guy"

 

 

My two cents?

I do not think Vince Young is worth the third pick in the draft.

 

He's 2 years minimum to contributing to whatever team takes him

I agree 100%. I've watched Vince for awhile and he is a project on the next level. I do however like the Tennessee situation for him. He can learn from his mentor and the same guy who also needed major work. Plus McNair while not in his prime anymore can still start for atleast 2 more seasons because the Titans are pretty much going nowhere with that very young team. I really like Youngs leadership ability. While things like him rushing for 250 yards and throwing for 250 yards wont happen on the next level his leadership ability will translate. You saw how he took that team on his back(in the rose bowl) and he wasnt afraid to go out and win the game rather then not to lose it.

[TheMeanWalrus]

You're right AtG

 

Young's one of these guys who will either be a huge bust or the steal of then century. And if he can learn behind McNair for 2 years, then have a year or two to develop his game, he could be an elite QB by year 5. The only thing that wuld concern me if I was picking him is his arm strength. I've seen him play in, oh, maybe 12-15 games over his years at Texas and his arm strength doesn't seem to be at the pro level. BUT, you can work around that. Joe Montana couldn;t break a pane of glass w/ a bowling ball but that didn't matter and guys with total cannons like David Klingler and Jeff George had all the arm in the world but nothing with it.

 

Vince Youngs career will be very intersting to watch if your an NFL fan like I (we) are.

 

Matt Leinart is the complete opposite. I think he's ready to step in right now and possibly help a team win. He's big, strong, nice arm, text book mechanics (thanks Norm Chow), great accuracy. Unfortunately (for him) that team will most likely be the Saints and their situation is not the best to be going into right now.

 

Actually, now that I type that, Norm Chow is the O-Coordinator for the Titans I think? If so, he'll be great for Vince Young mechanics wise and should help his development along a little quicker than most other guys would.

[AlexanderTheGreat13]

You're right AtG

 

Young's one of these guys who will either be a huge bust or the steal of then century. And if he can learn behind McNair for 2 years, then have a year or two to develop his game, he could be an elite QB by year 5. The only thing that wuld concern me if I was picking him is his arm strength. I've seen him play in, oh, maybe 12-15 games over his years at Texas and his arm strength doesn't seem to be at the pro level. BUT, you can work around that. Joe Montana couldn;t break a pane of glass w/ a bowling ball but that didn't matter and guys with total cannons like David Klingler and Jeff George had all the arm in the world but nothing with it.

 

Vince Youngs career will be very intersting to watch if your an NFL fan like I (we) are.

 

Matt Leinart is the complete opposite. I think he's ready to step in right now and possibly help a team win. He's big, strong, nice arm, text book mechanics (thanks Norm Chow), great accuracy. Unfortunately (for him) that team will most likely be the Saints and their situation is not the best to be going into right now.

 

Actually, now that I type that, Norm Chow is the O-Coordinator for the Titans I think? If so, he'll be great for Vince Young mechanics wise and should help his development along a little quicker than most other guys would.

Yeah Norm Chow is an excellent OC, I think they would work well together. I'm a big Leinert fan so if he were to ever slip to the Titans I'd be very happy. The Titans situation would also be good for him because his former OC from USC is the OC for the Titans as well. (Norm Chow). Leinert is perfect for a team that just needs a QB for the final piece. The Siants while its not the ideal situation they do have offensive wepons (McCallister, Horn, Stallworth) that he could work with and be effective pretty soon.

[guapo34]

Rumors are that Vince Young has scored a 6 on the wonderlic test, which would be the lowest score in the tests history. Its possible the test was scored incorrectly and he is taking the test again.

 

On a note more related to this thread, Kiper is expected to update his Big Board soon and do another mock draft. I believe his last one had the pats drafting RB Lawrence Maroney.