Georgia Offensive Lineman Cordy Glenn

How was your first day of practice?

Good. Pretty good, I thought I did pretty good for not knowing what to expect. I was just trying to pick up on some of the things the coaches wanted out of us. I think this next practice I’ll be more prepared and more ready to know exactly what’s going on and what we’ll be doing.

You were at left tackle in practice today, is that where you see yourself in the NFL?

Honestly man, I just wanna play for a team and get drafted. I can play left tackle or guard, I’m pretty good at both.

You don’t have a preference?

Nope.

Is there a specific defender who has stood out to you yet as a really tough matchup?

(Pauses) Specificly? Well, everybody here is good, I don’t know.

What are your goals this week?

Just get better at everything, doing what the coaches say. Just take in the teachings and try and get better.

With the level of competition, do you rise to the occasion?

Yea, I love competition. I love competing.

How much are you looking forward to the game on Saturday?

I’m just looking forward to going out there and having some fun with these guys. Showing these guys what I can do in a game format it’s gonna be a great experience for me.

Marshall Defensive End Vinny Curry

How was your first day?

My first day so far was good, man. It felt good to get back in pads, run around a little bit, run around with the rest of them.

Did they try anything new with you that you hadn’t done before?

Everything was basically the same. Football is football. I learned some things technique wise, it was great.

What did you think of the coaches?

Loved the coaching staff. Everything, everybody so far are straight forward guys.

Did you know any of them previously?

No, yesterday was the first time we met.

Are there any offensive tackles who you’re looking forward to matching up against this week?

All of them, all of those guys. I’m just looking to line up against the best of them and try my best.

Do you have any draft day plans?

Not really, haven’t really got that far yet.

North Carolina Defensive End Quinton Coples

How was the first day of practice?

Great. It was fun. Unfortunate weather with the ground, but it was a great day.

What has this experience been like so far?

It’s different. I’ve never experienced something like that before. But overall it’s definitely a good experience. I appreciate everything that has happened so far.

I have to ask because it’s staring me in the eye, how much did that tattoo (branding) on your arm hurt?

My brand? It didn’t hurt at all. Never had any pain. Offensive linemen like to hit it but it doesn’t hurt any.

You worked against  Zebrie Sanders today and at Florida State, talk about what kind of player he is.

He’s a great young guy, he’s definitely gonna have a great career, NFL-wise.

What kind of feedback are you getting?

Great feedback. Everybody so far just wants to know my general background, how I was raised.

What teams have shown the most interest so far?

(Smiles) All of them.

As far as 3-4 defense or 4-3 defense goes, do you actually have a preference? What do you think your best position is?

I don’t have a preference. I probably am best in a 4-3 because I practiced it most throughout my collegiate career. But overall I’m willing and ready for whatever.

Any advice from former teammate Robert Quinn?

I talked to him two days ago, he said I have to kill everybody. I have to beast it and destroy everybody. That’s the type of defensive linemen mindset we have, it’s never like “Go out and have a good day today” it’s just “Destroy and kill everybody.”

At any point did you get frustrated with the team this season?

Nah, I didn’t get frustrated. We dealt with some adversity, we had some situations that were unfortunate for us. We had a lot of young guys and we kinda struggled. I think we had a successful season we definitely didn’t win as many games as we wanted to but I think we competed at a high level.

What do you want to show scouts out here?

Versatility and that I’ll do anything to get to the Super Bowl.

Any feedback on where you’re going?

I’m not worried about that, I’ll let my agent handle that. I just have to go out there and do my best and compete.

Any special draft plans?

Nope, just hoping to get drafted.

What about your first paycheck? What do you plan on buying?

Hopefully buy an apartment or somewhere to stay at in the city.

Those were the first 3 athlete interviews I’ve ever done. You can see a clear improvement from one interview to the next! Huzzah. Thank you Evernote app, and thanks to those guys for taking time to let me interview them.

Time to go to bed for more Senior Bowl goodness tomorrow. If you have any questions or recommendations please feel free to send them my way!

Entering his sophomore year, Lewis was on many Heisman watch charts and many expected him to have another great year. Lewis finished the year with 1,061 yards rushing and 13 TD’s with 216 yards receiving. The numbers were not as high as the previous year because he split time with running back Ray Graham. His highlight of the season was once again against Cincinnati in the final regular season game where he had 42 rushes for 261 yards and 4 TD’s. Lewis followed that game up with 105 yards rushing and 1 TD against Kentucky in the BBVA Compass Bowl.

Dion is projected to be drafted in the mid to late rounds, with some seeing as high as late 3rd round. Dion’s size is a big strike against him; he measured in at 5’7’’ and 193lbs at the combine last month. His 40 yard dash at the combine was clocked at 4.57 which was not as fast as expected especially from a smaller back, but at Pitt’s recent Pro-Day he ran a 4.47. Although small in stature, he was a real work horse at Pitt, carrying the ball 544 times in just two seasons. He has a great burst off the line and has the ability to find holes quickly and make cuts in traffic. He also has good hands, catching 52 passes for 405 yards in his two seasons. Most importantly he is a play maker. Lewis always came up with the big first down or touchdown when Pitt needed it and I see him taking those skills into the NFL and becoming a solid 3rd down back for many years to come.

Deem: How has the whole pre-draft experience been so far?
Lewis: The pre-draft experience has been great. It’s a once in a lifetime experience so I’m trying to enjoy it.

Deem: Where have you been training? And with who?
Lewis: I’ve been training in Miami with Bommarito training.

Deem: What were a few key factors that led to your decision to enter the draft?
Lewis: I had two great years at Pitt and I felt it was the right time to try to achieve my lifelong dream. And the career of a Running Back is short.

Deem: What is your strongest area in your game? What are you working to improve on?
Lewis: My strongest areas in my game are my quickness and vision. I’m working on my technique in pass protection.

Being in LA, it’s commonplace for actors, singers, talk show hosts being forced to do this, but rarely does an athlete have to. Such is the case in USC’s WR, Ronald Johnson. He went from being a highly recruited high school All-American to virtually forgotten in just 4 years. Yet, he has battled and fought through frustrations and injuries, to being a player that everyone must watch for come USC’s Pro Day and NFL Draft in April. Rojo is in the midst of re-inventing himself into a draft steal.

“I’m not an emotional guy”, Johnson admitted, with an even louder admission of his own disappointment and despondency , “I was frustrated, even though I would never (have) show(n) it. I worked my butt off every off-season to be that guy; to be the man and it didn’t happen like I thought it would in my senior year.”. As RoJo commented on his senior year at USC, his voice echoed the downfall in his production and his sulkened shoulders mimicked his dwindled contribution to the offense.

His frustrations are completely warranted; he went from returning 25 kick-offs in his freshman year, to 4 in his Senior and had to further share duties with freshman Robert Woods, as they both had 64 receptions.

Even after missing 5 games with a broken collarbone at the beginning of his Junior year, Johnson still led the team in receptions

As part of a potentially explosive offense, new coach Lane Kiffin had a hard time getting him involved. Johnson was not used in the vertical game, but was optioned for hitches and swing passes; 2 plays that do not utilize RoJo’s blazing speed as an advantage. He caught everything, but could not rack up those yards after catch that resulted in long TDs years before (45, 47, 49 & 63 yards).

So after what many had would described as an underperforming USC career, Johnson headed to the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine, after the 2010 season.
“I was very excited for the Senior Bowl. It was a glimpse of what the Combines would look like. It was a transition from football to a job interview. It was also a test for my concentration and focus.”.

What Johnson didn’t expect the Senior Bowl to test, was his patience.
Although he was one of the top skilled WRs at the Senior Bowl, an obviously weak class of South QBs could not hit him. Displaying his great speed and reliable hands were not enough as he went virtually unnoticed during practices and just caught 1 pass for 12 yards in the game.

“I just didn’t get the looks”.

As easily as he had been forgotten, Johnson had to forget the Senior Bowl and move on to the NFL Combine. He hit his training at Elite Sports Factory hard; maybe a little too hard.

RoJo focused on his best asset – his speed. But, the accumulation of his career and final season at USC, coupled with the Senior Bowl experience, caused Johnson to train too aggressively and he injured his hamstring.

“I was so bent on running 4.3…bursting out as fast as I could, tensing up when I’m supposed to be loose…that what caused my hamstring to go.”

Adjusting his training for an injured hamstring, the speedy WR headed to Indy nonetheless, and still ran an impressive 4.4.

“I only tested it once to see if it would hold. I kept running consistent 4.4s in training. I went to the Combine and ran the same thing I ran here (in training), with a messed up hamstring. “

After running the 40-yard dash and catching just one route, Johnson tweaked the same hamstring again and had to pull himself out of the Combine.

“I felt so bad. I saw all the other guys running routes. As a technique player at a detailed position, I figured I would have made my money at that time. Everyone’s there and everyone’s watching and being the great route runner that I want to be, I felt that I would have outshone a lot of players.”.

“I was on myself a lot. I was on myself hard. To the point where I felt disappointed, like I didn’t go out there and do what I was supposed to do.”.

Frustrated and injured, but not dejected, Johnson decided to re-invent himself.

After understanding that his biggest weakness was his strength, he targeted his upper body in his training.

“When I came back, I decided that I needed to gain weight. So I began eating, lifting weights hard, dong everything I needed to, even though I couldn’t run hard.”

“I eat a lot; 2 meals here; then 2 more at home. I was frustrated from the Senior Bowl so I had to improve in that area.”

The result is a body and upper body strength that finally equals his scorching speed. Gone is his once wiry, lanky frame and in is a solid, muscular build. His powerful and well-built chest, shoulders and arms are an impressive answer to the request that many scouts had for Johnson. It was the only thing that he lacked to go up on draft boards. Such an attention to detail and sharp improvement are both areas that are coveted by NFL teams, as it is important to know that a young player can accept criticism, and more importantly, improve himself.

His reinvention started at the Senior Bowl, where when given a chance to speak with his team coaches, he inquired about his performance and urged for areas to improve.

“I picked their brains. I always asked how I could do better, even if I did it right. I can always perfect.”.

Now, a player whose strength was in question, RoJo repped 225lbs a much improved, 25 times.

And this was in training.

Impressive.

“I am in a great part in my life regarding football. I’ve seen so many results; I’ve gotten faster, stronger, bigger. I know a lot more about myself now. “

Relentless on his pursuit of improvement, RoJo trains up to 3 times per day, including weights at Elite, speed with former Olympic Gold Medalist and World Record holder, Maurice Green and film.

“Everyday I’m doing something to make myself better. Watching guys like DeSean Jackson and other guys that are successful. Lifting weights at my condo, pushups, sit-ups, P90x…I wanna be great. I see Jerry Rice and what he did as a 6-foot receiver. I wanna bring something new to the game.”.

Johnson’s reinvention may already be complete. When he worked out privately for the Philadelphia Eagles, the coaches told him that, he is “well polished and like an NFL player already.”.

As Ronald Johnson looks forward to his March 30th Pro Day at USC, he is doing so without the frustrations of his past Trojan seasons, an underwhelming Senior Bowl or even a disappointing Combine. He is doing so with a new excitement and confidence, knowing that he has done all that was needed of him, and more, to evolve into an exciting NFL receiver and electrifying returner.

“I look back over the Senior Bowl and Combine and know why coaches are not looking at me like they should, or why there are guys ahead of me that shouldn’t be. I take it as when and where I go (in the 2011 NFL Draft) doesn’t matter. I got the mindset that whatever team I go to we’re gonna have a great chance (at winning the Super Bowl).”

“I do things that other receivers don’t do, while they’re sleeping, I’m working. Working with my trainers and picking their brains constantly. I wanna be perfect at what I do and if you give me an opportunity, I promise I won’t let you down. That’s a promise that I can keep.”

Be prepared for the unveiling of the “new” Ronald Johnson, March 30th.

Jordan: 6’4 287, 25 reps at 225, 4.71 unofficial and 4.78 official.

You’re an NFL scout with the task of breaking down Cameron Jordan, what are the pros/cons?

Other than I’m quick out of my stance, I have long (35”) arms that I create leverage with by locking out on an Offensive Lineman creating a hard point at the end of the line.

Cons- If any, it would be that I need to further refine my technique of after extension while playing the run to not be too quick to shed blocks.

Since you stepped on campus at California, in what area(s) have you experienced the greatest improvement?

At Cal I’ve learned to multi task. Before I could focus on one thing at a time; I can text, walk, talk, and read notes at the same time while grasping the key concepts of everything that I’m doing.

By all accounts, you had an absolutely dominant week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile. Describe the benefits of that week and a couple things you took from your first taste of NFL coaching. 

Coach [Jay] Hayes of the Cincinnati Bengals was a good coach on the drills he took us through, so I could see myself taking coaching like that at the next level. It’s a different feel, it’s no longer a coach slowing everything down to basic techniques, it’s being told what is expected and responding accordingly. 

You’re a player that seems to have the versatility to make an impact anywhere on the defensive line.   Do you think there is a position or scheme that you’re especially tailored for? Just how many Defensive Line positions do you have experience playing?

I’ve played the 3, 4, 5, loose 5, 7, and 9 technique. I have been most recently in a 3-4 more penetrating attacking style defense, from a 3-4 two-gapping style defense, after I had started my Cal career in a 4-3 defense. I’ve played everything and I can play everywhere at a high level. Teach me and I’ll learn and supersede expectations.

What are your plans for the rest of the pre-draft process? Pro Day?

The next step for me is my pro-day at Cal on the 9th. As to what I’ll be doing I haven’t yet narrowed it down, I know I’m doing position related work.

Describe your Combine experience in Indianapolis. What was most enjoyable about the event? Most memorable? Is there anything you feel you really stood out in or possibly came up short of your expectations in?

I know that I wanted to run a fast forty and was completely happy with my unofficial times but my official time was seven 100ths slower and left me hungry to be faster.

It shocked a lot of people a year ago when your former teammate and Defensive Line-mate Tyson Alualu wound up drafted in the Top 10 Overall. In what ways are you similar to Alualu and what is it that makes you your own player?

I’m similar to Tyson in the fact that I emulated his game when I first got to Cal and wanted to be like him after his hustle and his hard work ethic. Now I do think I’m a step faster than Tyson, but his understanding of the game is amazing.

Which NFL team was your favorite growing up? Was or is there any player(s) that you model your game after or enjoy watching most?

Minnesota Vikings. I grew up around them and I’ve always looked at Chris Doleman and John Randle’s style of play and what it takes to be great.

It’s still early, but as it’s a moment that you’ve been dreaming of for a long time, do you have any specific plans for Draft Day?

I’m just really impressed that I’ve been considered a prospect for the draft and it’s been a blessing with all the events that have been going on and I can’t wait to enjoy the draft with my family. As to the whereabouts, I haven’t quite figured that out yet.

Are they really? How can we grade someone on a test that we didn’t prepare them for?

Enter Martez Wilson. He stands tall not because he’s a lean 6’4″ 250lbs., but because he overcame a crippling injury, 2 surgeries, media assassination and sentiments of being a “bust” to being a projected 1st round draft pick.

Highly recruited out of Simeon Career Academy in Chicago, Illinois, Wilson enjoyed all the accolades and awards one could handle. He was a USA Today All-American, #6 on ESPN’s Top 150 and was a 5 Star Recruit on Rivals.com, just to name a few.

After an illustrious HS career, he shocked many when he turned down Notre Dame, USC, Ohio State, Miami (FL), Florida and Michigan to stay home and attend the University of Illinois.

To him, the choice was simple, “The decision involved my parents a lot. My parents felt that the Illinois coaches showed me the most love and was the most honest with me, as well. We all felt more confident about it. It was close to home, too. Notre Dame is close too, but (Illinois) is closer. The coach is what really made me commit. Coach Zook talked to me and I felt that he was the one I really wanted to play for.”

Unbeknownst to him, these 3 years in Champaign, is where his “mental toughness” would be developed, disciplined and championed.

During his sophomore year in 2008, Wilson was hospitalized after being stabbed while breaking up a fight. It was his testimony that he stepped in to help a defenseless former teammate and current friend, as a group of men were punching and kicking him. He was stabbed in the back twice and received surgery that night.

The media dubbed him as a “thug” and “trouble-maker” that has “off-field” and “character” issues. Martez took more positives out of the situation than negatives, “Laying in the hospital bed, a lot of things changed for me mentally,” Wilson said. “I could have easily been taken away, off the planet Earth. I tuned in real close to myself and said, ‘I really have to focus. Take advantage of my scholarship and football. Take it real serious.’ ”

Wilson said the thoughts came to him as he woke up in the hospital.
“It just happened,” Wilson said. “I was just shaking my head, catching myself crying a little bit, and saying, ‘I know I can’t let this take me down. I’m going to bounce back from this.’ ” (Asmussen, IlliniHQ.com, 2009)

Then, after moving over to Middle Linebacker before the 2009 season, he suffered a neck injury in the season opener against Missouri, that required season ending surgery.

This had to have been crushing to Wilson. After appearing in all 13 games as a true freshman and amassing 73 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries and a forced fumble in ‘08, he’ll miss the remainder of the 2009 season.

First the “incident”, now the “injury”. This is when the “bust” sentiments began circulating.

Yet, Wilson still remained strong.

He put into motion the promise he made to himself while laying in a hospital bed a year ago – he will make the best of his opportunity by working hard. Outworking everyone else; in the weight room, on the track and in the film room.

The result? Dick Butkus Award watch list, 2nd in the Big Ten in forced fumbles, 4th in the Big Ten in tackles and led all Big Ten LBs with 15 tackles for loss, all on his way to being named to the All-Big Ten Second Team.

And most importantly, an invite to the NFL Combines.

Not bad for a guy who had 2 surgeries in 9 months.

Looking back, Wilson is thankful and grateful for his time at Illinois. When asked if he had lived up to his hype coming out of Simeon, with a smile he replied, “Yes. I’m in a wonderful situation. I’m here training for the combines. That’s a big accomplishment because not anyone gets invited. That’s a blessing to be recognized as one of the best in the nation to play college football.”

Unlike coming out of high school, Wilson didn’t garner a lot of hype when he declared for the NFL draft. Not showing up on any Top Ten or Players to Watch list, he has taken being under the radar with maturity and professionalism, again finding positivity amongst negativity.

Humbly, he planned to “take everyone by surprise”.

And he sure did.

He was the fastest LB at the Combines, running a ridiculous 4.49 (unofficially at 4.44) and was at the top of all LBs in the Broad Jump with an astounding 10’4” leap. He used that big, yet ripped and lean 6’4”, 250lb. frame to further impress in the position drills.

Highly respected Mike Mayock of The NFL Network, exclaimed that Wilson is “blowing up athletically”.

Still standing tall.

He may have surprised NFL scouts, coaches and GMs everywhere, but his trainer Billy Miller of Elite Sports Factory saw it coming.

“He’s a phenomenal athlete. I expect him to be one of the best LBs at the Combines. He’s gonna bench in the 20s (23) and have the fastest 40 (4.49).

In fact, the only surprise that Miller got, was the size of Wilson when he first entered the facility, “his frame is a lot bigger than I expected”.

Miller and the staff at Elite Sports Factory (that includes 4-time Olympic gold medalist and former World’s Fastest Man, Maurice Green) improved an already athletically gifted Wilson and turned him into a head-turning machine.

“We noticed that his weaknesses were his stiff hips, footwork, quick steps and flexibility. We implemented these into his workout. He is now loose, with great feet.”

Working at Elite for 3 times per day for 12 weeks, Wilson gained 12 lbs. of muscle and dropped to a miniscule 2.2% body fat.

With his improvements courtesy of Elite Sports Factory, Wilson is standing taller and stronger.

Martez absolutely dominated the NFL Combines. Scouts everywhere were blown away. Stating that he may have been the biggest Combine gainer, they called his performance ”impressive” and Mock Draf writers have him being the first LB taken off the board. With another solid performance at his Pro Day, Wilson is poised to solidify his #1 LB ranking by NFL Network’s Mike Mayock and creep into the 1st round of the upcoming NFL Draft.

It has been a long and windy road, with more than a few potholes and speed bumps. But, Wilson was strong enough to steer his way through it all. He admitted that he learned and grew every inch of the way, noting that his leadership, mental toughness and drive for the game were areas that were most affected. “Being away from the game for so long, I watched people. Watched their motors, energy levels, watch film and studied me. I was the hardest person to critique myself than anyone. That is one of my biggest advantages.”

And this is how you Stand Strong.

Lownes: What is your accurate height/weight?
Reed: 6′ 1/2 260lbs

You’re an NFL scout with the task of breaking down Brooks Reed, what are the pros/cons?
Pros: hard working, hard playing, instinctive, pass rusher
Cons: undersized as a 4-3 DE, played limited stamd up backer is college

Since you stepped on campus at Arizona, in what area have you experienced the greatest improvement?
My instinctiveness, speed, and strength.

Many are projecting you to make the switch from college Defensive End to NFL Linebacker. Why is this a good fit for you? In a 4-3 front, do you think you function well as a two-down Strong-side LB and third down edge-rusher at DE?
I have prototypical size speed and strength to play that position and I am athletic enough to make the transition from a 4-3 DE to a 3-4 stand up linebacker. Yes, or I could be seen as a situational 4-3 DE, especially on passing downs.

By all accounts, you had a very strong week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile. Describe the benefits of that week and the number one thing you took from your first taste of NFL coaching.
I used the Senior Bowl as a way for coaches and scouts to get a better look at me competing with the best in the country. I understood that I needed to get their attention because I went into the senior bowl kind of overshadowed by some higher profile guys. The best benefit from that experience was being coached by NFL coaches. I learned allot in that small period of time.

How have you been training and preparing for the upcoming NFL Combine?
I am training at API located in Phoenix Arizona for the past 2 months along with some position coaching with Barry Gardner (linebacker coach). These last 8 weeks have been pretty intense getting ready for the senior bowl and combine.

In what area/s do you think you will surprise coaches, scouts, and fans at the Combine? Anything in particular you’re looking forward to in Indianapolis?
I am hoping to beat expectations in my 40 and position drills, especially linebacker drills. I am looking forward to meeting all the coaches during the interview process, guys I have always seen on TV.

Which NFL team was your favorite growing up? Was or is there any player(s) that you model your game after or enjoy watching most?
I never followed any NFL teams growing up, I followed college ball mostly. I enjoy watching Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, the best pass rushing combo in the league.

The best player, also coming out in this draft, that you had to face at Arizona?
Shane Vereen (California)

Do you have any specific or general Draft Day goals? (1st Round, 2nd-3rd Round, etc.)
Higher the better, honestly I would be honored to be drafted any round. The only thing I can control is my performance at the combine and proday and let the rest take care of itself. It has been a goal of mine to play in the NFL since I was in popwarner, and to play for any NFL team regardless of what round im drafted is good for me.

Best of luck with the upcoming Combine, there’s no doubt in my mind that you’ll be turning heads there. Also, good luck with the remainder of the pre-draft process and I hope that you land in a great place/situation for you and your family. Thanks again, I really appreciate it.

Currently ranked the 21st overall safety by Scout Inc.’s draft board on ESPN.com, Johnson is looking to prove that there is plenty of value in this supposedly weak safety draft class in 2011.

Johnson is a 5’10’’, 200lb player who runs the 40 in approximately 4.5 seconds. He has solid speed for a defensive back, and it should continue to improve as he trains for the draft down in Dallas, Texas. The thing that makes him so good out on the football field is his balanced style of play, highlighted by exceptional intelligence and strength. “I’m a smart player with defensive knowledge, situational awareness and physical presence,” said Johnson. “I’m a pretty well-rounded player, but there’s always room for improvement.” Although T.J. Ward reminds him most of his style of play, he tries to model his game most after the healthy version of Bob Sanders.

It’s hard to find any particular facet of Johnson’s game that is the weakest considering how balanced of a player he is. The one thing that has stood out the most for scouts, however, is his lack of size. Standing at just under six feet, his height can sometimes prove challenging when playing against taller receivers. “My size is my biggest weakness,” said Johnson. Despite being a little lacking in the height department, he makes up for it with physicality and toughness. “My job was to be an intimidating factor and putting fear in receivers,” he said. The only other department that could use some improvement is his ball skills, as he has not been known to frequently make interceptions.

Despite missing four games during his freshman year, Johnson hasn’t had any issues with injuries since then that would warrant concern when the 2011 draft rolls around. As he focuses on the draft, he hopes to continue to improve on his size while maintaining his impressive speed. “I want to put on a little weight and show I can build bulk while increasing or at least maintaining my speed,” said Johnson. If he can continue to grow and unlock his potential while staying healthy, he may just become the new Sanders.

After seeing the field in a backup role during his freshman year, Johnson became the starting strong safety as a sophomore and never relinquished the position. In four years, he racked up 328 tackles, eight interceptions, 25 passes broken up, and three forced fumbles. To go along with his impressive stats, Johnson also played a key role in the leadership of the Broncos’ defensive unit. “I was a leader of the defense,” he said. “The coaches left it among me and the other defensive backs to run the defense.” Whether he’s the leader or a special teams player, Johnson is ready to make an impact on any team that gives him a shot.

In four of the biggest years in the program’s history, Johnson has had an up-close-and-personal encounter with some big moments during his time at BSU. The biggest for him, however, was when BSU took down TCU in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl and capped off an undefeated season. Despite all the memories of big games, there are two simpler things that he’ll miss the most. “The fans and the blue turf,” he said when asked what he’d miss most. “Nothing is better than the atmosphere at Boise and the fans getting excited during the home games.”

Another one of the most impressive things about Johnson is his character. “I’m a friendly guy with a great ego,” he said. “I like to have fun and spend time with my teammates. I’m not going to be a leader right away, but I have leadership qualities and will be willing to play my role.” Whether you’re talking to him or watching him on the field, it’s easy to tell that he just wants to be the best he can be and will do anything (legal, of course) asked of him to attain that goal. “I’ll do whatever I need to do to contribute and will do what is asked of me, whether on special teams or on defense,” Johnson said.

Despite all of the media exposure that BSU has received over the past couple of years, they have still remained a big underdog in Division 1 football. This, however, has only helped fuel Johnson towards being a better player. “Having to be the underdog helps you improve every season,” he said. “You got to go out there and prove them wrong, which makes you a great competitor.” Playing against players such as Kellen Moore, Titus Young and Austin Pettis has also been a huge help in making him a better defender. “Going against these guys in 1-on-1s and 7-on-7s makes you feel like you could stick with anyone,” Johnson said.

Challenges clearly await Johnson as he prepares for the NFL, but this young man is confident and will gladly take on any obstacle with tenacity. “I need to continue to do whatever is necessary to improve myself as well as my draft stock,” he said. No doubt will the NFL be a new experience, but he is heading into it with an open mind and knows to keep his head out of the clouds. “I can’t be star-struck,” he said. “Just got to look past playing on the same field as players I’ve been watching my whole life.”

Johnson has all of the tools to make a big impact in the NFL. If he can continue to improve on all of the facets of his game that make him such an impressive player, he has the potential to be one of the best. Keep your eyes open for Johnson in the East-West Shrine Game as well as the 2011 NFL Draft as he starts the next chapter in his outstanding football career.

Currently ranked the 30th overall inside linebacker by Scout Inc.’s draft board on ESPN.com, Franklin is hoping to shed the Division 1AA label and prove that he can be an NFL-caliber player.

Franklin is a 6’0’’, 237lb player who runs the 40 in approximately 4.5 seconds, impressive speed for a linebacker. This speed, along with agility and quickness, makes his athleticism the most impressive facet of his game. “Athleticism is my biggest thing,” Franklin said. “It allows me to be able to put myself in position to make plays by breaking blocks and closing space down in a hurry.” Despite being a big fan of NFL linebackers like Jon Beason and Patrick Willis, Franklin says that the tenacity and athleticism of Bart Scott most reminds him of the way he plays.

Even with his outstanding athleticism, Franklin sometimes struggles because he has a tendency to over-think things while reading and reacting to plays as they unfold. “I think too much and don’t always trust my instincts,” he said. “Sometimes I try to sit back and dissect things instead of just playing.” That may be a speed bump due to the speed of the NFL, but nothing that Franklin can’t overcome.

Franklin has been very durable during his football career at SIU. “I had a minor ankle injury,” he said. “I missed some practice but didn’t miss any game time.” It’s safe to say that injuries will not be a concern when NFL coaches consider his position on their draft boards. With no injuries to speak of, he shouldn’t have too much trouble showing up at pre-draft workouts and making his name known. “I want to prove my athleticism at the testing dates and test well in the positional workouts as well as weight lifting,” he said.

Since joining SIU in 2007, Franklin has compiled some impressive stats. After tallying 16 tackles in his freshman year, he took over the starting middle linebacker spot and made his presence felt. Throughout his four years with the Salukis, he racked up 174 tackles, 6.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and an interception. During his senior season, he led SIU’s defense with 76 tackles. He had plenty of special teams experience during his first year at SIU, so finding somewhere to contribute on an NFL team shouldn’t be an issue in his first couple of years in the league as his coaches continue to unlock his potential.

One of the things that Franklin is most thankful for during his time at SIU is the competition between him and his teammates since his first year. “When I first came in, I was a little overconfident,” he admitted. “Eventually, it showed me that I needed to work hard to earn my position. Nothing was ever handed to me and it helped me adopt a hard-hat mentality.” That hard-hat mentality and knowing that he has to work for everything will help give him the proper mindset when trying to earn a spot on an NFL roster.

During his time at SIU, Franklin had plenty of memorable moments that helped mold him into the outstanding player that he is today. One big moment for him was when SIU beat Division 1 Northern Illinois during his freshman year. When I asked him to talk about his most memorable moment, he immediately said, “going to Northern Illinois and having a comeback victory. I was a big part of the onside recovery that led to the game winning score.” He also cited his team’s big overtime win over rival Northern Iowa on the road as one of his biggest moments as a Saluki.

The thing he’ll miss the most when he leaves SIU is his teammates. “I’m gonna miss my boys,” he exclaimed. “Lots of my friends redshirted so they’ll be staying one more year, but I’m looking forward to building new friendships.” That last statement helps give you an idea of just the type of character that Franklin possesses. He is all about the love of the game and being a great teammate. “I play football because I love to play,” he said. “There won’t be any off-the-field issues and I won’t let my brothers down.” In a league that has seen an increase in players with character concerns, Franklins’ approach towards playing football is a breath of fresh air.

Even though he comes from a Division 1AA team, he doesn’t see the transition from the NFL as too much of a challenge. “I was able to make the transition quickly from high school to college and am diligent with studying my playbook,” said Franklin. “Being able to pick up the speed of the game will be tough, but things will get slower and easier when you start to learn.”

If anything, Franklin deserves his shot at the NFL solely on passion and tenacity. “I just need a shot. I’m excited for it and I’m going to be prepared,” he said. “All I want is to get an invite to camp and prove that I belong out there on the field.” Keep your eyes open for Franklin flying all over the field on Sundays next season.

Currently ranked the 61st overall running back by Scout Inc.’s draft board on ESPN.com, Odim is hoping to get a shot in the NFL and prove that playing for a Division 2 team can’t keep him from being a professional athlete.

Odim is a 5’11’’, 210lb player who runs the 40 in approximately 4.5 seconds. His speed is solid for a runner, but his best attribute is his outstanding ability to run hard and break tackles. “I pride myself on never giving up on a play, not letting the first person tackle me, and fighting for extra yards,” said Odim. According to him, he tries to emulate Adrian Peterson’s physicality by always fighting to keep the play alive while picking up more yards.

One thing that he feels could use some work is his pass blocking abilities. “My blocking has not been an issue at the Division 2 level, but it will be a big difference going up against NFL linebackers,” Odim said. “Scouts have pointed it out as an area to work on.”

Unfortunately for Odim, his physical style of play has led to an injury that could put his future in question. In mid-October, Odim went down with a knee injury that kept him out for the rest of UMD’s run for a D2 national championship. However, that hasn’t stopped Odim from dreaming big. “I need to focus on getting back to 100% as quickly as possible,” he said. “My immediate goal is to get onto an NFL team… The rehab is coming along very well. If anything I would say I’m ahead of schedule.” He feels that he will be at full-speed and strength by late March or early April and should have plenty of time to display his skills before the draft.

Over his career at UMD, Odim has overhauled the school record book in just about every rushing category. He racked up 4,245 yards on 589 attempts (7.2 yards-per-carry) and 72 rushing touchdowns during his career, including a 1,808 yard, 29 touchdown 2009 season. He was selected to five different All-American first teams as a junior and was honored as part of the 2010 ESPN Academic All-American College Division Football Team with a 3.85 GPA. He also returned the occasional kickoff or punt for the Bulldogs.

One reason he feels he’s been so successful is UMD’s outstanding defense, which has consistently been one of the best in all of Division 2 football. “Going up against that kind of talent in practice has helped me progress as a player,” Odim said. “More so than I probably would have at another D2 program.” However, NFL defenses and their speed will definitely be a big step up from UMD’s outstanding defense.

Despite being a part of a two-time National Championship team, Odim considered UMD’s 2008 quarterfinals victory over Grand Valley in overtime his most memorable moment as a Bulldog. The thing he will miss the most though as he leaves UMD and heads towards the NFL will be his teammates. “UMD has done a great job at recruiting unselfish players with great character, and it was a pleasure to play in that kind of system,” he said.

Odim feels confident that he will have plenty to offer any team that decides to take a chance with him. “I’m coachable and an inherent playmaker, whatever the situation may be,” he said. “I think my biggest challenge will be just proving myself as a valuable part of the team and overcoming the preconceptions of Division 2.”

Although it’s unlikely he’ll get a phone call on draft day, don’t be surprised to see Odim get a chance to prove himself as an undrafted rookie free agent.

Draft Breakdown was able to get out to the West Virginia Pro Day this year, and a player that caught our attention was cornerback Kent Richardson. Kent had a great workout and spent some time talking to NFL scouts afterwards. With his physical skill set, he’s certainly someone that needs to be on the radar of all NFL Draft followers. Rob Engle took a few minutes to talk with Kent about his career at WVU.

Engle: Hey Kent, thanks for taking the time to do this interview. What did you study at West Virginia?

Richardson: I studied Marketing.

Engle: What is your accurate height, weight, 40 time and bench press?

Richardson: My accurate height is 5’11 3/4, bench press is 435 and 20 reps at 225, and my 40 is a 4.46.

Engle: Who is the best player you’ve ever played against?

Richardson: The best player I’ve ever played against is Calvin Johnson, by far.

Engle: What was your role at West Virginia?

Richardson: My role at WVU was to come in on 3rd downs or whenever else I may have been needed and to go out there and just make plays.

Engle: What would you say your strengths are?

Richardson:My biggest strength would be that I can handle bigger receivers. I can eliminate big plays and run fast when someone runs to my side and make a play on the ball.

Engle: What about your weaknesses?

Richardson: I’m not going to say that I don’t have a weakness, but some of the things that I’d say I have to work on are maybe awareness of where people are on the field and things like that.

Engle: What are your goals for the NFL?

Richardson: My goals for the NFL are to come in and prove to the world that I can make plays just as well as any top rated corners that may be out there.

Engle: What will you do with your first paycheck?

Richardson: Probably save it.

Engle: Have you had any workouts or interviews with any teams?

Richardson: Not yet, but soon hopefully!

Engle: Ok great. Thanks for your time, Kent it’s been nice talking to you!

One of the underrated prospects at inside linebacker this year is Jamar Chaney of Mississippi State. Not only was Jamar the defensive MVP of the Senior Bowl, but he recorded the fastest time of all the linebackers at the Combine at 4.54, but even he thinks he can run in the 4.4s. Chaney’s athleticism flashes on film and any linebacker that can play at a high level in the SEC deserves recognition. I had the chance to talk with Jamar about where NFL teams see him fitting in at the next level and what it is that motivates him when he’s on the field. Be sure to follow Jamar on Twitter @Jamar22Chaney.

Spencer: I haven’t had a chance to talk to you since the middle of the Senior Bowl. How do you feel about your performance down in Mobile?

Chaney: Just to get to play with NFL coaches and some of the best players in the nation, it was a really good experience. I feel like I played well. I think I did everything the scouts and coaches were looking for.

Spencer: After the Senior Bowl, you had a short break and then had to head out to Indianapolis for the Combine. You performed pretty well in Indy, running a 4.54 40 and had 26 reps on the bench. Were you pleased with your performance there?

Chaney: I was pleased. One of my goals was to be the fastest linebacker there and I think I was the fastest linebacker there. (Jamar was the fastest of all the LBs at the Combine with Florida State’s Dekoda Watson coming closest at 4.56). I was still a little upset with my time. I’m usually somewhere in the high 4.4s where I’ve been training. But pretty much everything I did I was a top performer, so everything was good. To be a top performer there and be the defensive MVP at the Senior Bowl, I feel like it worked out for the best.

Spencer: Who are some of the teams you had a chance to do a formal interview with at the Combine?

Chaney: I pretty much interviewed with every team, or talked to every defensive coordinator or linebacker coach. But to name a few, there was the Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville, Minnesota, Arizona, Dallas, Philly, just to name a few.

Spencer: You played both the Mike backer and Will backer spots and Mississippi State. Are teams looking at you more as a Mike or Will backer, or are 3-4 teams interested in you playing the inside there?

Chaney: Most of them have talked to me about playing either the Mike or the Will in a 4-3 defense. I feel confident in both of them, so it really doesn’t matter to me. But basically, most of the interviews, they just asked for personal information; where you grew up, where you’ve come from. Then they switch over to the football aspects. They ask about what defenses you played in in college and they want you to draw it up. They want you to draw formations and ask what your adjustments are and what are you gonna do with this and stuff like that. They just want to test your football knowledge, especially being a Will linebacker. They want to see your overall knowledge of the defenses you ran in college.

Spencer: Who were some of the 3-4 teams that talked to you?

Chaney: Dallas, Arizona, Miami, Patriots.

Spencer: Folks are always talking about the strange questions teams ask during the interview process. What was the oddest question you were asked in an interview?

Chaney: I was asked if I’ve ever cheated on my girlfriend.

Spencer: Is your girlfriend going with you to whatever city you move to after the draft?

Chaney: More than likely she’s coming with me.

Spencer: Talk about some of your experience on special teams and how that’ll be able to help you in the NFL.

Chaney: I played a lot of special teams at Miss. State. I pretty much played on kickoff and punt team every year. I pretty much played every position on kickoff and every position on punt team. And at the Senior Bowl, pretty much every special team I played on and I think I did a good job with it. The special teams coach from the Miami Dolphins told me I did a pretty good job. I’m very experienced on special teams and I’ll run down there on kickoffs or whatever teams want me to do.

Spencer: One of the things I’ve noticed this year are a lot of guys that are healthy, but turning down opportunities to compete at the Combine and other events. As someone who has competed at every opportunity, what are you thoughts on guys that chose not to compete?

Chaney: I think you should compete. It’s up to every individual, but I think you should compete. It’s something you’ve been doing all your life. You’ve been running and jumping and playing football your whole life. Like at the Senior Bowl, it’s just going out there and playing football. So why not go out there and do what you do. So this wasn’t new to me. I just wanted to get out there and showcase my talents.

Spencer: You’ve had some previous injuries to your leg, are there any lingering concerns?

Chaney: I had some issues with my ankle before but it’s no problem now. The doctors have all said I’m good and when they looked at it at the Combine, they didn’t ask for an MRI. So that means it was pretty good.

Spencer: I see you’re a fitness management major. How close to graduating are you or have you already graduated?

Chaney: Yeah, I graduated back in December. It feels good to have that out of the way so I can focus on football.

Spencer: I’ve read that you had scholarship offers to Georgia, Tennessee, NC State, Maryland, South Carolina, Iowa and WVU. What made you decide to go to Mississippi State.

Chaney: I was actually committed to Georgia, but something happened with my test scores. They were pretty much late. Real late. It was probably like March or April and I found out that I wasn’t going to be able to enroll in Georgia that year. I really wanted to play in the SEC so I came to Mississippi State.

Spencer: Did you have a favorite NFL team growing up or a player that you looked up to?

Chaney: My favorite team in the NFL growing up was probably Tampa Bay. Especially when they had Warren Sapp, Derrick Brooks and John Lynch. I like the way they played defense. Right now, I’d have to say my favorite team would probably be the Baltimore Ravens. My favorite player growing up has always been Ray Lewis. I just like the way he gets out there and plays and is emotional. It shows because he plays at a high level and he’s up there in age. He’s a very special player.

Spencer: Have you had a chance to interview with the Ravens?

Chaney: I did at the Senior Bowl. I like the kind of defense they run. The way it looks on TV is the kind of defense that you’d love to run. Players are all over the place. You’ve got D tackles playing linebacker and linebackers playing defensive end.

Spencer: Who were your biggest supporters growing up?

Chaney: My biggest supporter was my mom. I was raised in a house with my mom and my three sisters. But my dad was a real important part of my life to. I don’t want to get it twisted like he wasn’t there. I was just raised by my mom. My inspiration definitely comes from my mom though. She worked hard and worked two or three jobs so we had everything we needed. She never gave up on us. That’s where I get my drive. Just thinking about what she did for us, I can go out there and play a game and not get tired. So whenever I do get tired, I just think about that.

Spencer: Did you play any other sports growing up?

Chaney: I played basketball. The first sport I played was actually baseball, and I was pretty good at it. I just liked football better. I ran a little track in high school. I played a lot of sports. Anything to keep me busy.

Spencer: Do you have any odd hobbies or hidden talents?

Chaney: I don’t think I have any hidden talents. I’m a member of Phi Beta Sigma, so we do a lot of dancing and step stuff.

Spencer: Do you have any particular goals for your pro day coming up on the 26th?

Chaney: Just showcasing that I can move. I did a good job of that at the Combine, but we didn’t do a lot of linebacker drills there. Just show them that I can move very fluid, I can flip my hips. I might just run the 40 again. I ran a good time at the Combine, but I think I can do better. More than anything, it’s just another opportunity to go out there and compete.

Spencer: Last question for you. If you’re a scout and you’re trying to convince your GM to draft Jamar Chaney, how do you convince them?

Chaney: I would just say he’s a leader on the field. He’s gonna do it right on the field but also off the field. He’s a great motivator. You can just ask the players that are around him. Ask the players at Mississippi State how much I impact them on and off the football field. He’s just a hard worker. I’ve had three strength coaches and they’d tell you the same. I’ve had three defensive coordinators and they’d tell you the same. I’ve had four linebacker coaches and they’d tell you the same. He’s gonna go out there and lay it on the line. Just watch my film. I’ve had to go against some great backs like Joseph Addai, the fullback for the Ravens, Le’Ron McClain. I played against him my freshman and sophomore years and beat him up in the holes.

Spencer: Thanks a lot for taking a few minutes to talk with me today. Best of luck to you at your Pro Day on the 26th and in the draft!

Chaney: Alright, I appreciate it!

One of my absolute favorite draft prospects in this year’s class is Sean Weatherspoon, the linebacker from Missouri. I knew I liked “Spoon” from the games I had watched before the Senior Bowl, but it was there that I got to see first hand his abilities as a leader on and off the field. Sean isn’t afraid to speak his mind and he talked with me about how the North squad felt disrespected at the Senior Bowl, how he feels about those who chose not to compete at the Combine and what team made him stand up and sing for them in an interview! Needless to say, this was one of my favorite interviews I’ve had the pleasure of conducting. Be sure to follow Spoon on Twitter (while he still has it!) @SeanWSpoon12!

Spencer: We first met at the beginning of Senior Bowl week but haven’t been able to catch up since. How’d you feel about your experience in Mobile?

Weatherspoon: It was a great time, man. I didn’t really know what I was getting into when I signed up for it but I was just excited to go play against the nation’s best. Going down there and meeting a lot of great football players and seeing a lot of great competition at practice was big for me. I actually played on the outside some, but I played mostly on the inside, so that was a little different for me. But overall, I felt like I accomplished a lot that week and I felt like it was a great experience for me. It definitely helped me in my growth as far as the game goes.

Spencer: That actually brings me to my next point. You talked about playing the Mike backer spot at the Senior Bowl where you were a Will backer at Missouri. How did you wind up playing the middle in Mobile?

Weatherspoon: Well, we had a shortage of linebackers. There were like, five linebackers there so we had to split some time with that second unit. So with the first unit I was an outside linebacker then when we’d go to the second unit, I would go to the Mike. So I just got really comfortable at it and the coaches felt like I did a great job with it. Just communicating with the rest of the defense and getting guys lined up, so when it came down to game time, they decided to keep me inside since I did a great job in practice. It came pretty natural to me because when I came to Mizzou, I started at Mike. My freshman year I was second team Mike. Then after that I kind of moved to my natural position which is a Will in a 4-3 system. But at times, I would still be playing Mike here, so it wasn’t that big of an adjustment. It was something I was a little nervous about before hand but once I got the hang of it, it was fun.

Spencer: One thing that I noticed during the practices and the game in Mobile was that you assumed a leadership position with the North team. How’d did that develop?

Weatherspoon: Basically, all throughout high school and college I’ve been the guy that was always enthusiastic on the field because I know that if you’re having fun, then you’ll make a lot of plays. Just being out there I feel that it’s not a right for us to play; it’s a priveledge. So you have to take advantage of it and have fun and enjoy every moment. So I’m definitely that guy that wants to be in front of the huddle and tell the guys what they need to be doing and lining people up. I take pride in that.

Spencer: Something else I noticed was that the North team seemed to play with more of a “team” concept out there compared to the South team. After the game I heard basically the same quote from you and Mardy Gilyard (Cincinnati WR) comparing the team to a hand, saying that when you first came together, you were like 5 individual fingers. Then you came together to form a mighty fist that could deliver a mighty blow. Was that something that the Lions coaches talked to you guys about or was that something that the players came up with on their own?

Weatherspoon: That’s something that me and Mardy started saying in practice to bring guys together. We kept hearing about all the names on the South team and talking about players individually. So we felt like as a unit, we’re solid. We kind of felt like not a lot of people were talking about us because a lot of the people down south in SEC country don’t even know a lot of the players on the North team. We just kind of wanted to come out and put on a big show and coming together to prove everybody wrong. I think everyone was kind of writing us off and our coaches kind of let us know that everybody was against the North. When they brought us out, we didn’t get as many cheers as the South team. So we put a little chip on our shoulder and wanted to come out and prove people wrong. We just wanted to shut all the nay-sayers up so we just kept telling the team how we could all do it together. Everyone just wanted to come together and make plays and there wasn’t a lot of focus on one individual, so we were able to come together as a team and gel a little bit better.

Spencer: Who else stood out to you on the North squad, either for their play or their leadership?

Weatherspoon: I was really impressed with our cornerbacks. They did a great job. Kyle Wilson from Boise State. He’s a great corner that likes to jump on everything and make plays on the ball. One guy that I was really impressed with was Chris Cook from Virginia. When I first saw him, I was like “Bro, you play linebacker?” He’s said, “Nah man, I play corner. Why does everyone say that when they see me?” So we kind of joked about that. In practice, he was a big physical corner that made some plays on the ball. Those are two guys that stood out to me. On the offensive side of the ball, I would have to say I was impressed with Mardy [Gilyard]. He just worked hard in practice and he made big plays. In the game, it showed because he had a great performance and it was great for him.

Spencer: After the Senior Bowl, you had the Combine come up next. You get there and put up 34 reps on the bench and run a 4.68 40. How’d you feel about your performance in Indianapolis?

Weatherspoon: You know, I was pleased with my performance but I wasnt so pleased with my 40 time. I felt like that wasn’t a normal 40 time. I felt like I could run a lot better, so I was a little upset about that. But as far as drills and everything, I felt like I did what I needed to do. I think I looked athletic in drills from what I’ve seen. Guys were even out there leading. Guys like Brandon Spikes [Florida], myself, Sean Lee from Penn State, guys were stepping up out there. It was a competition but at the same time, we were kind of like a unit. The whole Combine process is pretty tough because you’re so excited to get out there and do what you want to do and that’s run and jump and all of that stuff. Then they just shut you down on day one with all the medical stuff and you’re like “Woah, what’s going on? I’m ready to get out there and perform!” but you’ve got to go through all that stuff. The psychological test and stuff like that, so it wears and tears on you a little bit. After the Combine, I think I was pretty much a top performer in everything I did so I was please with it. I just wasn’t pleased with my 40 time and my 5-10-5 shuttle time. So I came back to Mizzou and my Pro day was on the 4th, so I kind of jumped right in to it. So I took three days off, then came out to my Pro Day. We started out with the 40 and I ran a lot better on my home turf. My first one was like 4.52 low or around that range is what everybody had me at. Then my second 40, I even got into the 4.4 range at like 4.45, so it was a better day for me and I was feeling pretty confident at home. Then my short shuttle, I did it in 4.1, so I was really excited and I just decided to go ahead and do the drills again. So I had a great showing at my Pro Day as well, so just to put that on top of the Combine, it really gives me confidence going into April.

Spencer: One of the things I like about you so much is that you went to the Senior Bowl and you competed there. Then you go to the Combine and you compete there, followed by competing again at your Pro Day. What do you think about some of these guys who are healthy, but chose not to compete with everyone else?

Weatherspoon: You know, there are a few guys that come to mind and they’re good friends and they’re great guys, but I just feel like when it’s time to compete, everyone that’s able to should go out there and compete. So to me it’s kind of like, guys are scared. But like when I got invited to the Senior Bowl, I look at that as an opportunity and I wanted to go. But some guys are like “I’m not going to that because I can only hurt myself,” and stuff like that. But for me, it’s all about competing. I wish that the bigger names would come out and compete as well. But sometimes they’re advised by people that want to make different decisions, so it’s pretty tough on them. Like at the Combine, I could tell that Rolando [McClain], he wanted to get out there and compete, but you could tell that somebody else was telling him that “you shouldn’t do this,” and “you shouldn’t do that.” But I feel bad for the kids because it’s actually a fun time to go out there and do what you’ve been doing all your life and try to be great and compete with everyone else.

Spencer: Going back to the Combine for a minute, one of the toughest parts of the Combine is the interview process. Were there any teams that gave you a hard time in the interview room, or did they all go smoothly?

Weatherspoon: I didn’t receive a hard time from any team. I won’t say a team’s name, but you’ll pretty much figure out what team this is. They just talked about my Twitter. They said that they don’t really care too much for the social media side of things with all the YouTube and stuff like that. They said that there’s only one guy that makes decisions at our office and he’s the guy in the gray sweatshirt, so they said they don’t really care too much for that. Then they said “if we draft you, are you gonna put that to the side?” and I told them, “yeah, I’m not attached to anything. I’ll be able to put that to the side and focus on what I need to focus on.” But my interviews went pretty well from what I experienced. I came in and did what I needed to do and didn’t blow it like some people do in those areas when they’re not prepared. I had twenty one formal interviews, which is usually with the GM and sometimes the owner and the head coach and stuff like that, so that took a toll on me. But overall it was just fun to meet with those coaches and front office people and show them what I can bring to the table. Most of the time, it’s the defensive coordinator and the linebacker coach that run the meeting. They just talk a little bit about where you’re from, your up-bringing and stuff like that. Then we just jump right on the board and talk about football and I can talk about football all day, so it wasn’t that bad for me. I just felt like I did a good job on my interviews and hopefully it helps me out come April.

Spencer: What position are teams talking to you about playing in the NFL? Do they like you at the Will spot? Did they like what they saw at the Senior Bowl when you played the Mike position? Or are 3-4 teams talking to you about playing inside in their defenses?

Weatherspoon: I met with a lot of 3-4 teams, which was kind of news to me. I had been hearing all this stuff like “he’s a 4-3 guy, Will side, maybe on the inside. Maybe.” I met with the Chargers, Steelers, Broncos and even the 49ers, so I was like, wow. They all can see me on the inside in a 3-4 system so that kind of made me excited since I hadn’t heard that at all. So once I got out there and talked to them, it made me feel a little bit better about my draft status. I feel like I can play in any system. In a 4-3, most guys are saying on the weak side, but some teams are talking about the middle, so it’s pretty neat. I’m just taking it all in.

Spencer: Talk a little about the coverage scheme you ran at Missouri. Where you locked up in man coverage on backs and tight ends a lot of were you primarily in zone coverage?

Weatherspoon: We had a lot of zones at times. We had some pressures where I had to take the backs. Sometimes the backs would try to run a wheel route or something like that and those are the things that I had to be conscious of. I was just used to getting to a spot and reading the quarterback and trying to break on the ball.

Spencer: Did Missouri use you much as a blitzer?

Weatherspoon: This past year, we had a defensive coordinator change so we were a little more passive this year. We had a lot of young guys out there so we didn’t blitz as much. I had like, 5 sacks, but we didn’t really blitz that much at all. The previous years, I found myself blitzing a lot more because we had an older defense. I think I’ve had success coming up the middle in the A gap and the B gap, but not that much success on the edge because I wasn’t on the edge that much coming out. But I feel like I can get up there and work on some tackles a little bit.

Spencer: Throughout your career, what running back gave you the toughest time?

Weatherspoon: I wouldn’t say a running back gave me a tough time. Once you get ‘em, you’ve just gotta get your fundamentals and bring ‘em down. But as far as having a tough time getting to a guy, that’d be Mike Goodson from Texas A&M a couple years ago. He was just one of those backs that if you gave him an inch, he’d put the moves on you real quick. So he’s one of the guys that stuck out in my mind.

Spencer: I’ve heard that you hold some school records in the weight room. Talk a little bit about your lifting numbers.

Weatherspoon: Last summer at Mizzou, myself and a couple other guys were trying to get the record in the squat. So we got with our strength and conditioning coach, coach Ivy, and he thought I could get it so he put it on there. It was like, 775. That’s the record. It’s something I take pride in and a lot of teams have talked about it. It’s the record but I don’t know how long it’s gonna be the record! We’ve got some guys coming up that’ve been working really hard. So we’ll just see how long it lasts!

Spencer: Going back to the early part of your career, you played a lot of special teams. As you know, that’s the “foot in the door” role for linebackers in the NFL. Talk about some of the roles you played on special teams and where you could fit in?

Weatherspoon: When I was younger, I played on kickoff. My first two years. That was really fun and it was big for me. That’s pretty much how I made my living my freshman year, just running down on kickoffs. I did kickoff return, I was the center on that. Punt team, I was the wing on our pro-style punt team. Then we went to the shield punt, you know, just spread everybody out. I was a guard in that for the past two years. So I feel like I can go out there with any organization and be out there on day one on kickoffs. Just be one of those guys running down and making plays. At the Senior Bowl I kind of showed that. In practice, it was a competition to see who could get down there and that’s something I tried to do and did a pretty good job. In the game, I ended up starting the game off with a pretty nice tackle on Dexter McCluster on the kickoff. So I look forward to going out on kickoffs. I know that as a linebacker, that’s something you’re gonna have to do is all special teams, so that’s something I’m looking forward too.

Spencer: Did you grow up with a favorite NFL team or a linebacker that you idolized?

Weatherspoon: Well, I’m from Texas. So my favorite team would have been the Cowboys growing up. So I watched the Cowboys in the nineties win all of those championships. I’m still pulling for them these days but if they don’t pick me, then I’ll have to find a new favorite team. As for a player I idolized, growing up it was like Lawrence Taylor and Derrick Thomas and then Ray Lewis recently. Then I got to high school and I started to like a guy like Lance Briggs, and I kind of compare myself to him. He plays a 4-3 scheme and plays the weak side, so he’s free to make a lot of plays. He’s an athletic guy that’s real passionate about the game and I think I do the same thing.

Spencer: Who was your biggest supporter growing up?

Weatherspoon: I’d have to say my mom, my dad and my sister. Her and her two daughters. They came to everything, man. Every game, everything I had going on, they were trying to make it, no matter the circumstance. So they sacrificed a lot to come watch me play so they’re kind of like my motivation.

Spencer: Did you play any other sports growing up?

Weatherspoon: Yep. I played basketball, football, baseball and I ran track. So I was really active. I didn’t sit still too long.

Spencer: What’s something about you that would surprise some of your fans? Any odd hobbies or hidden talents?

Weatherspoon: I don’t have any odd hobbies but as for hidden talents, I like to think I could make it on American Idol or something. I sing a little bit. Actually, the Vikings asked me to sing at the end of my interview! It was so funny! That was probably the craziest thing that happened to me in Indy. I couldn’t believe Coach Childress asked me to sing! So I just had to pick a song and go with it, so I picked Ruben Studdard’s “Fly without wings” that he won American Idol with. I did pretty good with it so I could tell they were pretty impressed. It was pretty cool!

Spencer: Did they give you a standing ovation?

Weatherspoon: Not a standing ovation, but you could just tell that they were surprised.

Spencer: Do you have any workouts or visits coming up with any NFL teams?

Weatherspoon: Yeah, man. Wednesday I’ve got a private workout with the Falcons. So I’m looking forward to that one. They were one of the teams that I really got a good vibe from at the Combine. Meeting with their owner, Mr. Blank, their GM, Mr. Dimitroff, the head coach, Coach Smith. The meetings went well and I think they got a pretty good vibe from me. I have a team mate that was drafted there last year in the second round, so he put in a couple good words for me. But I’m definitely looking forward to that meeting coming up on Wednesday.

Spencer: Final question for you: You’re an NFL Scout trying to convince your GM to take Sean Weatherspoon in the draft. What do you say to persuade the GM?

Weatherspoon: I’d say the reason you should draft Sean Weatherspoon is because he’s a leader. He’s a natural born leader. And a leader to me is someone who can improve any situation. I feel like when I’m out there on defense, if we’re going through some bad times, I feel like I can step up and make a play. That’s something I take pride in is making big plays on third down and getting off the field. And oh yeah, the guy made a lot of tackles! 400 plus tackles in college. He can obviously find the football, so that won’t be a problem.

Spencer: Sean, I really appreciate you taking your time out to talk with me today. Good luck with your workout in Atlanta this week and good luck in the draft!

Weatherspoon: No problem man, thanks a lot!

Robinson is a bit of an enigma for scouts. On tape, there are games where he is absolutely dominant. Other times, he can disappear. Robinson came into the Senior Bowl as possibly the 2nd rated corner on most folks board, but I’m not sure if he lived up to those expectations. Patrick took some of his time out to sit down and talk with me during Senior Bowl week about what his favorite coverage is and what receiver gave him the toughest time in practice.

Spencer: How’s your Senior Bowl experience been so far?

Robinson: It’s been good. It’s been fun so far.

Spencer: Was this something that you knew right away you’d play in if you were invited?

Robinson: Oh yeah. I knew right away.

Spencer: What is it about the Senior Bowl that is so appealing to you?

Robinson: It’s a huge game for me to showcase how good I am. That’s, for the most part, what I think it is.

Spencer: What would you say is the strongest aspect of your game?

Robinson: Being able to play man to man. Man to man, alone on that island.

Spencer: Do you prefer playing press-man or off-man?

Robinson: It doesn’t really matter to me. If they want me to press, I’ll press. If they want me to sit off a little bit, I can do that too. I have no preference.

Spencer: Do you think you’d be better in a man coverage system than a zone coverage system?

Robinson: I wouldn’t say that. But I’m more used to man.

Spencer: Is there anything in particular that the coaches have been trying to work with you on this week?

Robinson: Well, in my press technique, my stance was a little wide. That’s something I can correct right away, but that was it for the most part.

Spencer: What are you looking forward to for the rest of the week?

Robinson: Making more plays. Making a lot more plays.

Spencer: Looking at the receivers you’ve been matching up against, who has stood out to you as a strong opponent?

Robinson: Riley Cooper. He’s a guy that never quits on the ball. If you get a good jam on him, he’s still fighting to get open and try to catch the ball. He’s a tough guy.

Spencer: Thanks a lot for your time tonight.

Robinson: Alright, thank you, too.

A one year wonder or the next Antonio Gates? That’s what scouts are wondering as they break down the tape of Miami tight end Jimmy Graham. A former basketball player, Graham only played his senior season for the Hurricanes but produced at a relatively high level. At just under 6’7″, Graham is a huge target and he feels that his best aspect is his ability to catch the ball in the red zone. Jimmy talked to me about working out with Ed Reed of the Baltimore Ravens and how that helped his play as well as what he’s trying to show scouts while at the Senior Bowl.

Spencer: With all the extra fan attention around Tebow this week, has it been a distraction at all?

Graham: No, not at all. Whenever you go to college at Miami, you kind of learn to ignore all the distractions real quick. I’m actually training with Tebow at D1, too.

Spencer: Was the Senior Bowl something you knew right away you’d attend if invited, or was it something you had to think about?

Graham: Of course. 100% I was coming. First, it’s an honor to only play one year and be invited to this. It kind of showed me that hard work does pay off. So being invited to the best all-star game in the nation really meant a lot to me. So I was definitely gonna come up here. It also gives me an opportunity for scouts to see me play another game and also see me practice and how hard I work. So that’s the big reason I came here.

Spencer: Have you noticed noticed any differences running with the Dolphins coaching staff as opposed to “The U’s” coaching staff?

Graham: Oh yeah. They’re fairly similar in how they coach. We run a pro offense. Mark Whipple, you know, he’s very professional and Randy Shannon’s a tough coach just like they are. The Dolphins are one of those old school staffs. They tell you like it is and you better do it. I really respond well to that so far, it’s been great.

Spencer: What would you say you’re the most confident in about your game?

Graham: My ability to stretch the field. I’m 6’6, well, I thought I was 6’7″ (Graham measured in at 6’6 3/8″). But I run a 4.5 40, so I’m able to get on safeties really fast and I’m able to open it up. But the biggest part of my game that I’m the most confident in is my red zone play. I think I’m unstoppable in the red zone and I don’t think anyone can do anything to stop me in the red zone.

Spencer: What area of your game do you really want to show the scouts improvement in this week?

Graham: The little techniques. I’ve really been working on techniques as far as pass blocking and stuff, which showed up today. I’ve been working my tail off the last two weeks on that stuff. I was kind of thrown in and it was like, “Jimmy, just get open!” or “make sure he doesn’t hit anyone else but you.” So a big part has just been learning the techniques of everything and it’s definitely coming together.

Spencer: What other player on your side of the ball has really stood out to you this week?

Graham: Tim Tebow. The kid’s a competitor. That’s the biggest thing about him, he’s competitive. He’s confident and he’s a leader. He always makes sure he’s the first one in there and he always lets everyone know what they’re supposed to be doing. He is a leader and I’ve had the opportunity to work out with him for the last two weeks and it’s been fun.

Spencer: What about defenders you’ve matched up against? Who’s standing out to you?

Graham: During a stretch play, I had to get out on Taylor Mays and we took each other to the ground. So I’d have to say him because that was pretty physical.

Spencer: I’m also writing some articles for the Ravens, so what would it be like if you were to be drafted by Baltimore?

Graham: It’d be amazing. First off, because I feel that half of their team is from “The U.” I had the opportunity to learn from Ed Reed this summer. He was kind of teaching me coverages, teaching me how not to give away what I’m about to do. He’s a very smart safety so that was really cool. I think I could really help out the Ravens, stretch the field and help them in the red zone. I’m a pretty big target so just throw it up and I’ll get it.

Spencer: Thanks a lot Jimmy and I look forward to following you through the draft process.

Graham: Thanks a lot.

A physically imposing player at 6’4 5/8″ and 221 lbs, Danario Alexander led the nation in receiving yards for 2009. The Senior Bowl was his opportunity to show the NFL that he could play with the big boys. Unfortunately, an injury slowed him down at the end of the week and he wasn’t able to shine in the game as he would have hoped. What stood out most to me while watching Alexander during practice was just how hard he was working. I could tell that Danario was doing everything possible to make his routes crisper and he wasn’t afraid to put his body on the line for passes. I sat down with Danario early in the week at the Senior Bowl and we talked about what he wanted to show in Mobile and what players he hopes to emulate once he’s in the league.

Spencer: Overall, how has your Senior Bowl experience been?

Alexander: It’s been pretty good. It’s a different type of deal. I’m walking around and I’m always getting pulled different directions by scouts or whatever. So it’s a pretty big deal for me right now.

Spencer: So you’ve had a chance to talk to all the NFL teams?

Alexander: Yeah, I’ve been interviewing with guys every time I’m in the lobby. I’ve had at least 20 meetings already which is kind of crazy. I’ve got more lined up when I get back tonight.

Spencer: Any particular teams showing a little more interest than others?

Alexander: It’s kind of hard to tell at this point. They all basically want to know the same things. They want to know about your history and everything about your life. And they’re asking me about my knee a lot.

Spencer: How is the knee, by the way?

Alexander: It’s doing pretty good. Doing pretty good.

Spencer: What’s the oddest question the scouts have asked you so far?

Alexander: I haven’t really got to the weird questions yet. Everything’s been pretty basic so far.

Spencer: While you’ve been in practice, what corners have given you the toughest time in passing or team drills?

Alexander: I think the guy from Boise State [Kyle Wilson]. He’s pretty good. He’s a smart player. He can sit on a lot of routes and we’ve been running a lot of comebacks, so he doesn’t sit on those, but he’s a pretty good player.

Spencer: Looking at your side of the ball, who has impressed you on offense this week?

Alexander: I think Jacoby Ford. I think he’s really showing his talents. He caught a lot of balls today. He’s shown everyone that he can play for a small guy.

Spencer: What would you say is the strongest aspect of your game?

Alexander: Being physical. Catching the ball and after the catch. Yards after the catch is a big thing for me. I try to get to the endzone every time I catch the ball.

Spencer: Do you have a specific route you like to run or a particular area of the field that you like to work?

Alexander: I actually like to work the middle. A lot of guys catch the ball and look around but I like to catch the ball and get up field as fast as I can. And you can make a lot of guys miss like that.

Spencer: You led the nation in receiving yards this year, you have all the physical attributes scouts look for, so does it bother you that you aren’t being mentioned along side players like Dez Bryant as the top wide receivers in this class?

Alexander: That’s something I can’t focus on too much. I’ve gotta come out and have a good week this week and put my name out there. I’m pretty sure the scouts see what they need to see. So I’ve just gotta play my best right now to show everyone that I can play.

Spencer: So how important do you think this week is for your draft stock?

Alexander: It’s very important. I’ve gotta come out and show everyone that I can run routes and catch balls and that I’m an all around receiver.

Spencer: What would you say you have to work on the most?

Alexander: Probably just coming out of my breaks a little quicker. Everything else is pretty much polished and good for me right now.

Spencer: Did you have a particular NFL team that you follow or is it going to be “whatever team drafts me, I’m gonna love!”

Alexander: Pretty much, but I grew up a Cowboys fan. I grew up around that area but right now, I’m a fan of every team until draft day.

Spencer: Do you have a particular wide receiver that you grew up watching and tried to model your style of play after?

Alexander: I kind of like watching Moss and T.O. I kind of want to try to mix those two guys and be somewhere in the middle. Be able to catch those deep balls and be as explosive as T.O. is.

Spencer: What are you looking forward to the most in the draft process?


Alexander: I’m looking forward to hearing my name on draft day, of course. That’s my dream. I’ve been playing football my whole life and for them to call my name on draft day, that’d be the biggest thing for me.

Spencer: Thanks a lot Danario, I appreciate your time.

Alexander: Thanks.

Versatility is the word that comes to mind when I watch Jared Odrick play. Odrick showed throughout his career at Penn State that he can be a disruptive force along the defensive line and he displayed the ability to line up as a 4-3 defensive tackle or 3-4 defensive end while at the Senior Bowl. Jared and I talked about where he fits in best in the NFL and how he found out about his Senior Bowl invitation. Read below for the transcript of our conversation.

Spencer: So far, how’s your Senior Bowl experience been?

Odrick: It’s been good. Busy. With all the testing, interviews and practice. But it’s been an experience so far.

Spencer: Have you had a chance to sit down with any NFL teams yet?

Odrick: Yeah, yeah. Quite a few.

Spencer: What’s the oddest thing the scouts have asked you so far?

Odrick: I really haven’t been asked anything out of the ordinary yet, but I know they’re coming. I know those questions are coming.

Spencer: When you were invited to come play at the Senior Bowl, was there ever a doubt in your mind that you’d participate? Or was it something you had to give a lot of thought to?

Odrick: In terms of an invitation, I’d go to my d-line coach, Coach Johnson. I’d go up to him and ask him, ‘Hey, I’ve got something from other all-star games. Should I respond, should I give an answer, what should I do?’ There was a time where he was like ‘we’ll have our talk, we’ll have our talk,’ and he kept pushing it off. I think he was withholding the invitation that I got, I think because he wanted me to work for it like I did in my Senior year. I think that’s the way it came off, but I never asked. I think he received it, he just never told me about it. He just wanted to wait for the right time. But the day I got it was the day I responded.

Spencer: Who’s the toughest lineman you’ve had to face so far this week?

Odrick: Toughest? There was a pretty tough double team I had to face today between [Mike] Iupati and Sam Young. I pride myself in handling double teams and facing them head on and either trying to split them or hold them. But it was pretty tough today. I lost my footing and those two guys got the best of me.

Spencer: Turning to your side of the ball, who have you been playing beside that has really stood out to you?

Odrick: Cal, [Tyson] Alualu. He’s really good with his hands. Very good with his hands, shedding people. I’ve watched him a few times on TV but I was more impressed here in person. But I’ve been playing beside Cam Thomas of North Carolina, so I can’t really watch him. But I’ve been watching Alualu and been really impressed.

Spencer: What would you say is the strongest aspect of your game that you’d bring to an NFL team?

Odrick: It’s hard to talk about yourself because I always think that I have so much to work on.

Spencer: Well look at it this way. If a team was watching you on film, how would they game plan against you?

Odrick: Double team me. I think that’s one thing. I’m the type of player that commands a double team. I guess that’s one thing I would write down if I was a scout. There’s not many times throughout a game that I’m not double team. There wasn’t many times throughout my whole Senior season. I think I’m the type of player that left in single blocking, I’m gonna disrupt plays or go make a play. So I’d probably have to say that.

Spencer: Where do you think you’d fit in best in the NFL? A one gap defensive tackle or a 5 technique in a 3-4 defense?

Odrick: I’d say a 3 or a 5 technique. I think I can play in multiple schemes, to tell you the truth, and I’ve been hearing the same thing from NFL teams. So it will be interesting to see where I eventually land.

Spencer: Jared, I appreciate you taking your time out to talk to me.

Odrick: Thank you.

No interior defensive lineman helped themselves as much during the Senior Bowl as Dan Williams of Tennessee. Williams showed the strength and versatility to play several spots along the defensive line which will probably land him somewhere in the late first round on draft day. I had the chance to talk to Dan after practice early in the week. Here’s the transcript of that conversation.

Spencer: What are you initial impressions of the Senior Bowl?

Williams: First thing, I was just excited to be here. It’s just a huge honor, just being invited. There’s been a lot of great players here before me and I want to try to keep up with the tradition that the Senior Bowl has of sending guys to the next level.

Spencer: Has there been anything in particular the coaches have had you working on?

Williams: Just trying to get the base defense they have. Just trying to get us used to it and the language they use. We’re from all different parts of the country and we’re just trying to learn the plays and learn everything so we can start playing fast.

Spencer: Who’s been the toughest guy you’ve faced on the offensive line this week?

Williams: Of guys I’ve went against, I’d say Mike Johnson of Alabama. We went against each other in the pass rush [drills] today and he won one and I won one. I’m just trying to figure everybody out and go against everybody the rest of the week so I can continue to get better.

Spencer: Anyone on defense stand out to you this week?

Williams: Oh yeah. We’re starting to get together out here and get to know each other. We’re pushing guys, especially in one on ones. I’d say Jeff Owens (Georgia) had a couple good pass rushes today. We’re all living off each other out here. And especially today, one who showed me something was Antonio Coleman (Auburn). He went up and over big Ciron Black from LSU in pass rush drills, so he did impress me today.

Spencer: Is it a distraction at all here with all the attention Tebow is getting from the local fans and media?

Williams: Not really. You have one purpose and everyone has that purpose. You’re trying to improve their draft stock and trying to impress these NFL scouts, coaches and GMs.

Spencer: Thanks a lot for your time, Dan and good luck this week.

Williams: Alright man, take it easy.

Probably the best player at the Senior Bowl practices and in the game, Michigan DE/OLB Brandon Graham was a force on the field. Graham won the Senior Bowl MVP award after recording two sacks and a forced fumble in the dominate win for the North team. I had a chance to talk to Brandon a few times during the week. Here’s the first transcript of our first conversation.

Spencer: What’s your Senior Bowl experience been like so far?

Graham: The tempo is fast and I expected it. That’s all I’ve been practicing for. I feel like I did good today. I was kind of sad because one of my boys, O’Brien Schofield, tore his knee up today. So he won’t be participating no more. I talked to him for a minute and told him that I’m gonna keep him in my prayers and I’ll keep going for him. Stuff happens for a reason, so you just have to keep fighting.

Spencer: Did you plan all along to play in the Senior Bowl if you were invited, or was it something you had to really think about?

Graham: No, it’s always an honor to get invited somewhere. Especially for what you’re doing. It’s like an accomplishment and a privilege, like they say and I appreciate it.

Spencer: What are you trying to show scouts while you’re here?

Graham: Just trying to show that my motor’s always going. I love football and I just wanna make plays and sack the quarterback.

Spencer: You’ve matched up against some pretty good offensive lineman out here. Who has given you the toughest time in practice?

Graham: Uh, I forgot his name…from UMass.

Spencer: Ducasse?

Graham: Yeah, Ducasse. I’ve only seen him in team drills, but not in one on one. I did see the one from Virginia Tech (Wang).

Spencer: What about on your side of the ball. Who’s impressed you so far?

Graham: Jared Odrick. That boy’s a good player and he’s got a motor, too. He always keeps going and I can’t wait to see him in the game.

Spencer: Where do you think you fit in best in the NFL? Do you think you’re a 3-4 outside linebacker or do you feel confident you can play 4-3 defensive end at the next level?

Graham: I don’t really wanna say because I’m willing to do 4-3, 3-4, it doesn’t matter. I like linebacker a lot. I’ll say it like that. But I’ll play wherever the coaches want me to play.

Spencer: Do you feel pretty comfortable dropping into coverage?

Graham: Oh yeah. I feel real good. I’ve been working on my hips, working on my drops every day in practice for Michigan. It’s almost the same but it’s a little different. With a little coaching from NFL guys, I believe I’ll get it done.

Spencer: Is there a difference working with an NFL coaching staff than with the staff at Michigan?

Graham: It’s almost the same. Since they’re teaching all basic kind of stuff, it’s kind of the same. But the intensity is there, the way they do it in practice, But they’re NFL guys, so of course they’re better than college guys. But at the same time, I believe it’s all the same thing so you just have to buy into it.

Spencer: Did you grow up with a favorite NFL player?

Graham: Ray Lewis. That’s my guy. I try to just go hard like him. He works out so hard from everybody I hear. I just see him out there and it shows out there on the field. That’s what I wanted to be. I wanna show how hard I put in to it, how much hard work I put into it, so I just appreciate this opportunity.

Spencer: What would it be like to get drafted by the Ravens and play next to your childhood idol?

Graham: Hey, they would love Brandon Graham. I would bring the passion for the game and you’d just know that you have 100% coming.

Spencer: What would it be like for you having Ray Lewis behind you and Terrell Suggs on the other side?

Graham: That’d be nice right there. That’s scary. First off, not only is Ray Lewis a great player, he’s a mentor. He’d teach me a whole lot. That’d be a good fit, just on the football stand point. I’ve never met him as a person but I keep hearing good things about him.

Spencer: What are you looking forward to the most throughout the rest of the draft process?

Graham: I’m looking forward to tomorrow and then the Senior Bowl. Then running in the 4.5s. I’m trying and I’m working. I’m excited because I like when people doubt me. That’s just a challegenge and I like challenges and I’m gonna try to fulfill it. And if I don’t, then I gave it my all and that’s all I can say.

Spencer: One thing we can’t doubt is your ability to get to the quarterback. What goes through your head as you come around the corner and have the QB in your sights?

Graham: Hey, get out of my way. You better get out of my way because I’m coming.

Spencer: Thanks a lot for your time, Brandon.

Graham: No problem!

One of my favorite guys at the Senior Bowl has been the speedy all-purpose back, Dexter McCluster. Dexter has stolen the show in Mobile and is really flashing his explosiveness when the ball is in his hands. I had the chance to sit down with Dexter and talk about his Senior Bowl experience and how he thinks he’ll be utilized at the next level. Continue reading below for the full transcript of our conversation.

Spencer: Alright, I’m just gonna throw it out there. How often do you get mistaken for Lil’ Wayne?

McCluster: All the time man. All the time. Some people come up to me and are like ‘Are you Lil’ Wayne?’ I’m like, ‘Nah, I’ve got the gap, he’s got the grill’ (pointing to his teeth), so I’m good.

Spencer: What’s your Senior Bowl experience been like so far?

McCluster: Ah man, it’s been great. Coming in to it, people told me about it but you can never imagine something like this. It’s a once in a life time type deal. So I’m enjoying it, enjoying talking to everybody, including you, (laughs) and all the teams. Practice is great. It’s fast tempo and everything is just going. We’re learning with NFL coaches, so you can’t go wrong.

Spencer: What have the coaches been talking to you about or wanting to see from you on the practice field?

McCluster: Well, they wanna really see me do more special teams. I had been pushing to do that in college but they gave me that deal of ‘we don’t wanna get you hurt, we wanna keep you fresh because you’re kind of the engine of this team.’ So I was just like, just let me loose, let me do it. But they’ll let me do it now in the Senior Bowl. They wanna see me play slot receiver, which I know I can, I’ve just got to show them that I can do it. But pretty much I’ll be every where, so I’ll be ready.

Spencer: You’re kind of a jack of all trades, but what’s your favorite thing? Do you like to run the ball more, catch more, return more, what do you prefer?

McCluster: I’ll say this. I like the ball in my hands early. I feel like I can make some good decisions with it in my hands early.

Spencer: What’s the best thing that you bring to the table for an NFL team? If I’m a scout and you can tell me one thing about your game to make me draft you, what would that be?

McCluster: I would say my heart, my passion and my dedication. My heart is so big, man. A lot of people come to me all the time and say ‘You’re 165 pounds, how do you do it?’ And I look at them and tell them, you know what? I’ve got the heart of a lion. I’m not scared of nobody. I’m gonna compete and go toe to toe with you and we’ll see what happens.

Spencer: Was there ever a doubt in your mind that you’d participate in the Senior Bowl, or was this something that you really had to think about before making a decision?

McCluster: It’s another opportunity to compete and just show that I’m an all around player. You may look at me and think that I’m on the small side but at the end of the day, I’m gonna show you that I’m a big guy.

Spencer: What does the success of smaller backs like Chris Johnson, Maurice Jones-Drew and Ray Rice do for you and your draft stock?

McCluster: It helps me out. Just seeing them have that type of success at the next level just shows that, you know what, I can do that too.

Spencer: Are there any particular NFL players that you like to model your game after?

McCluster: You just said one, Chris Johnson, and Barry Sanders. That’s my man right there, man.

Spencer: What are you looking forward to the most throughout the draft process?

McCluster: I’m looking forward to just showcasing my abilities. Just letting them know that I’m an all around football player. That’s what I’m looking foward to.

Spencer: Have you had a chance to interview with any teams yet?

McCluster: I have. It’s been good. I’ve sat down with the Buccaneers, talked to them a little bit. Of course the Dolphins, since they’re coaching us and a couple more people. It’s been good. I’m just getting some feedback from them and them feeling me out and me feeling them out, and hopefully building a relationship with them.

Spencer: What are scouts saying to you about how they’d like to use you for their team in the NFL?

McCluster: Slot receiver and returner. Some of them say, maybe we can use you as a change of pace back, which I’d have no objections. So if they ask me, where do I see myself in the NFL, I say, ‘I see myself where ever you put me.’

Spencer: Do you have any particular draft day goals? Is it important for you to be drafted in a certain round?

McCluster: Yeah, you always wanna go first round. That’s been my goal, that’s my passion. So I’m gonna keep working at it and see what happens. If it doesn’t happen, whatever round I’m in, I’m gonna make sure I stay with it.

Spencer: What kind of 40 time do you think you’ll run at the Combine?

McCluster: In the 4.3 range.

Spencer: Thanks a lot Dexter, I really appreciate your time.

McCluster: No, thank you, man.

During Senior Bowl week, I had the pleasure of talking with Cincinnati WR Mardy Gilyard. Mardy was great and very vocal about his abilities and how things are going during Senior Bowl week. We talked about everything from Tim Tebow to Santonio Holmes, and he was very complimentary of the Detroit Lions coaching staff. Continue reading below for the full transcript of my chat with Gilyard.

Spencer: What’s your overall impression of the Senior Bowl so far?

Gilyard: Like I said the first day, everybody here is real.Back at school you play a lot of guys that go to smaller schools and can’t compete. But everybody here in NFL ready. The DBs are good, all the guys I’m going against are good. Everybody’s working hard to adapt to the speed of the game because mostly everybody out here is fast. These last couple of days I’ve just noticed that the North team, man, we’re starting to come together.

Spencer: What have you been learning from the Lions coaching staff while you’ve been here?

Gilyard: Oh man, it’s like, what haven’t they worked on with us? Coach Jefferson and Coach Todd (Downing), both of those guys are just excellent. They don’t shoot it to us sideways, they give it to us straight forward. Regardless of whether you like it or not because there’s times where we definitely don’t like what’s coming out of their mouths. But, it’s not for us to like those guys, it’s for us to get better and be successful in the league and those are the kind of coaches we need. So I just want to say kudos to Coach Jefferson and Coach Todd (Downing) for just getting us right. They’re starting to get us right and we’re getting better and better every day. I’ve probably learned more in the last couple days from these guys than I’ve learned in a while from playing the game of football. So those guys are working us.

Spencer: What’s the one thing you’ve been able to improve that the Lions staff has been able to help you with?

Gilyard: My route running. They’re helping me understand the route running and the route tree as it pertains to the NFL level. I’m able to get in and out of my breaks a little bit better. They’re just working on the fundamentals and mechanics of being a wide receiver with me and it’s helping me a lot.

Spencer: This Senior Bowl is a little bit different with all the extra attention on Tim Tebow. Is it a distraction for you or are you just trying to stay focused on your game?

Gilyard: Well, it isn’t a distraction for us because he’s on the South team. I can imagine how those guys on the South team feel though. Nobody here is getting attention for anything. It’s the Tebow show. He’s a rock star. I mean, you have other top guys in the game like myself, Stafon Johnson of USC, Taylor Mays of USC, Devin McCourty of Rutgers, [Kyle] Wilson of Boise State, I could name on and on. Asante from Nebraska, I could go on and on. My man Vladimir from UMass. I could go on and on and on about great players that are here, but you would never know. Probably no one is hearing about them because it’s Tebow’s show down here. He’s a rock star. You see little kids in the lobby with helmets on and his jersey on playing play football. I was listening to the radio yesterday down here in Mobile and even fans are tired of hearing about Tebow. They’re calling into radio shows saying ‘can we hear anything about any other athletes?’ But on the North side, we don’t get caught up in that because he’s not a part of our team. But I honestly feel bad for the guys on the South team because they aren’t getting credit for anything.

Spencer: I agree with you but I can tell you this. I don’t think the NFL scouts are paying as much attention to Tebow as the media is. They’re watching guys like you. Now looking at your game, what would you say is the strongest aspect of your game?

Gilyard: I’m versatile. I can come in immediately and help a team on special teams. I can play my role under those veteran receivers and learn the game a little bit better and also help those guys as a receiver as well. I’ve shown that I can go outside, I can play inside in the slot and I’ve shown my ability as a kick returner and a punt returner. So the main thing I can bring to the table is just being a versatile player.

Spencer: Are there any current NFL players that you model your game after?

Gilyard: Santonio Holmes. Everybody in Cincinnati kind of calls Santonio my twin, as funny as that sounds, because we just favor each other so much the way we play the game. I can’t explain it. Even in the Super Bowl when Santonio caught that ball, I remember a fan had a picture of Santonio and me on the sidelines in the Orange Bowl. It showed his picture with the catch and both feet in bounds in the end zone and then it shows me and my one foot down, over at the Orange Bowl. So it’s just little things like that. Every time he does something people are like ‘Hey Mardy, you see your twin on TV?’ And of course, both of us are from Florida, so that kind of falls into play. Santonio when to Ohio State and I was at Cincy, so it’s nice. It’s nice to just follow somebody like that because I take so much from the game from watching him and he probably doesn’t even know I watch him like that. But just watching that guy and enjoying the game. I enjoy watching what he does. I like it…it helps me do a lot of things.

Spencer: Before the play starts and you’re looking across the line of scrimmage at the defensive back, what’s going through your head?

Gilyard: I don’t even look at the DB at first. I actually scan my triangle and I kind of take a glimpse at the DB. I take a glimpse at the linebacker to see where he is. I’ll take a glimpse at the corner and kind of see where everyone is at. Then I focus in on the corner after I get my reads from my triangle. And of course, I’m really a noise talker out there. You’d never think that from seeing me off the field. The game’s mental too as well. If you can get in that guy’s head before the snap comes off, then you’ve won half of the battle right then. The best thing about corners is, and Deion Sanders is a prime example, he was really patient. So if you can get a corner to be impatient, then definitely you can win as a wide receiver. That’s what good wide receivers do, they get corners to be impatient. So if I can get them to get their concentration off of focusing on me and try to get them focusing on the personal level of what they can and can’t do to me, then that’s when I’ve got them.

Spencer: Are you working out anywhere in particular coming up to the Combine?

Gilyard: Yeah, I’m working out with Cliff Marshall down in Naples with Ignition.

Spencer: Mardy, I appreciate you taking your time out for me and I wish you the best of luck this week and in the Draft!

Gilyard: No problem!

One player who is quietly moving up draft boards right now is Oklahoma State cornerback Perrish Cox. With a great combination of size and speed, and the versatility to play defense and return kicks, Cox certainly has first round potential. Perrish took a few moments of his time to talk about his game, Dez Bryant, his plans for the Senior Bowl and his strong connection to his family.

Spencer: What’s your current height and weight and most recent 40 time?

Cox: My height is 6’0″ even. My weight is 195. My last 40 was 4.38.

Spencer: You’re not only a solid defender but also a talented return man. Which do you look forward to most on game day?

Cox: Both actually. I just like to get out there on the field.

Spencer: Describe your play style as a cornerback.

Cox: It depends, but you could say aggressive.

Spencer: What kind of coverage do you prefer? Off-man, press-man or zone?

Cox: Press-man.

Spencer: What would you say is the strongest aspect of your game?

Cox: I’m aggressive. As a corner and on special teams, it’s the same thing.

Spencer: What area of your game would you like to improve on?

Cox: I’d say my tackling.

Spencer: Throughout your college career, who is the toughest wide receiver you’ve faced?

Cox: The one I face every day, Dez Bryant.

Spencer: Do you think playing against him every day gives you an advantage come game day?

Cox: Oh yeah. He’s an all around player. Strength, size, height, speed. He’s got it all. Playing against him, I couldn’t ask for nothing better.

Spencer: Last year, one of your teammates, Brandon Pettigrew, was drafted in the first round. Do you stay in touch with him and if so, has he given you any advice about the draft process?

Cox: He gave me advice every time I talked to him. He said to just keep doing what I’m doing and I’ll be fine. He told me what everyone else has told me to improve on and that’s my tackling. But besides that, just make sure I’m doing everything that needs to be done.

Spencer: Pettigrew decided to play in the Senior Bowl, even though most considered him the best tight end in the country and a lock for a first round pick. Do you think that the Senior Bowl is an important event for draft prospects to take part in and do you think you’ll participate if invited?

Cox: Yeah, actually it is. That’s where all the top seniors going into the draft are gonna be, so that’s something I definitely want to do.

Spencer: Do you have any pre-game rituals?

Cox: I pray to my grandmother and my grandfather. They passed away two years back. I talk to my kids and I know they’re watching me on TV so I’ve always got their wristband around my wrist during the game.

Spencer: How many kids do you have?

Cox: Three.

Spencer: How old are they?

Cox: Two, five and six.

Spencer: Once you get to the NFL, are there any particular wide receivers or quarterbacks you’re looking forward to playing against?

Cox: Everybody. Whoever my next opponent is, I’m looking forward to it. I just wanna play for it all.

Spencer: Did you have a favorite player or favorite team growing up?

Cox: Not really a favorite player, but a favorite team; The Dallas Cowboys.

Spencer: Where’d you grow up?

Cox: Wacco, Texas.

Spencer: Are there any young guys on the team that scouts should be taking a look at for future draft classes?

Cox: There’s quite a few. Right now, you’ve got a lot of juniors that will probably come so, so there’s a lot.

Spencer: I know you’re still focusing on the rest of your season, but looking forward to the draft, what are you most excited about or most nervous about as far as the whole draft process goes?

Cox: I’m really not nervous about too much, but I’m excited about a lot, though. The nervous part, no. I’m just confident and just trying to keep doing everything right every game and help my draft status out.

Spencer: Have you noticed any particular team scouts at your practices this season?

Cox: Not any in particular but there were quite a few. Not now, but the first half of the season there were a lot. I actually heard there were going to be a lot more for this game. As far as practice, they don’t really come out anymore.

Spencer: Looking towards your big matchup this week against Texas, how do you plan to play against WR Jordan Shipley?

Cox: The same way. Just going and playing my game. He’s (Shipley) talented, he’s a good receiver, but I look at everybody the same way until they prove me different. So I’ll just do my thing.

Spencer: Thanks a lot for your time Perrish and best of luck this week against Texas!

Cox: I appreciate it!