Dorin Dickerson Position: TE School: Pittsburgh Height: 6’1 3/8" Weight: 226 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.48 Overall Grade: 5.68 Draft Projection: 3rd-4th Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Tight Ends Specific Categories

Strengths

Versatile player. Has the speed to stretch the seams. Big and physical. Will fight for position. Good after the catch as he fights for yards. Does a nice job of high-pointing the ball. Good burst and can create separation against linebackers. Athletic that should be able to play multiple roles for a team. Has good special teams experience.

Weaknesses

Not exactly a tight end prospect, but more of an H-back. Even though he’s seen time at fullback, he’s not much of an inline blocker. Route running is still developing. A project.

Analysis

Dickerson has potential to pan out as an H-back type and could even see a full time transition to a wide receiver, or at least line up as a receiver in certain packages. Came to the Senior Bowl as a wide receiver and did a nice job while split out wide. He needs to work on his route running and stay in the film room for him to further develop, but he’s a boom or bust type guy. At the very least, he should be a nice special teams addition for a team with good potential as a pass catcher.

Experience

Only one full year of starting experience at the tight end position. Saw previous playing time at wide receiver, fullback, and outside linebacker.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Communications major at Pittsburgh.

Injuries

No history of injuries while at Pitt.

Jimmy Graham Position: TE School: Miami Height: 6’6 1/8" Weight: 260 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.53 Overall Grade: 5.71 Draft Projection: 3rd-4th Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Tight Ends Specific Categories

Strengths

Very fast and athletic pass catcher that can stretch the defense. Should be able to find the seams and get behind linebackers in coverage at the next level. Overall athletic player with a lot of upside. Not afraid of working the middle of the field and won’t get alligator arms. Does a nice job after the catch.

Weaknesses

Very raw at this point. Doesn’t appear to be a natural pass catcher as he uses his body much too often. Route running needs a lot of work and getting off of any type of jam rarely happens right now. A project. Not much of a blocker. Unsure what his dedication to football will be.

Analysis

Graham is a very raw tight end project that many are excited about. He’s athletic and a former basketball player, which will automatically draw comparisons to Antonio Gates. However, he has a lot to learn about running routes and doesn’t appear to be a natural pass catcher. He had a chance to really shine at the Senior Bowl but was unable to stand out, even among tight ends with less potential. Needs to go to a team where he won’t have to start, but could get on the field for certain packages as he will be able to stretch the field.

Experience

Has only played one year of football and was not the full-time starter in that year.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a

Academics

Double major in management and marketing at Miami.

Injuries

No history of injuries.

Dennis Pitta Position: TE School: BYU Height: 6’4 1/2" Weight: 245 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.71 Overall Grade: 6.04 Draft Projection: Early 3rd Round

Non-position specific categories

Tight Ends Specific Categories

Strengths

Quite possibly the best pass catching tight end in the draft. Snags the ball out of the air and is a very natural receiver. Solid route runner that has smooth acceleration and doesn’t lose speed in cuts. Not afraid of contact. Can work the middle of the field, but was split out wide most often with BYU. Great concentration and looks the ball in. An above average blocker that isn’t afraid to mix it up. Super high character player that is very mature. Was a walk-on at BYU that may be a bit of an over-achiever.

Weaknesses

Marginal straight line speed. Won’t be a deep threat at the next level. While he’s a willing blocker, he can get over-matched and will fall off blocks. Came from a strange system at BYU that had him lining up wide more often than not. May have trouble transitioning in a “block and release” style play. Is a bit older than most prospects (25) as he served a two year Mormon mission.

Analysis

Pitta is an exceptional pass catcher that will make an NFL team very happy. He’s consistent, knows how to run routes and is a willing blocker. His work ethic alone will get him playing time with an NFL team, and don’t be surprised if he ends up having a better overall career than some of the more highly touted tight end prospects. There will be no concerns with Pitta off the field as he’s an Eagle Scout, a former team captain and is currently married.

Experience

Three year starter at BYU.

Awards and Honors

2009: Consensus 1st team All-American. 1st team All-MWC. Finalist for Mackey Award.
2008: 1st team All-MWC.
2007: 1st team All-MWC.
2006: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at BYU.

Bloodlines

Father played middle linebacker for California.

Injuries

Sprained MCL in 2008 but did not miss any games.

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Eric Decker Position: WR School: Minnesota Height: 6’3 1/8“ Weight: 217 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: -.-- Overall Grade: 6.25 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Wide Receiver Specific Categories

Strengths

Great size, bulk, and muscle definition. Precise route runner. Very strong and can drag people after the catch. Extremely smart and had the highest Wonderlic score at the combine with a 43. Really fights for the ball in the air. Great possession player. Uses his body well to shield defenders. Made a lot of big plays in college. Very good blocker. Tough and will go over the middle.

Weaknesses

Ended his senior year with a foot injury, but he should be healthy in time for training camp. Doesn’t have great speed and isn’t sudden at all, but he gets open. May have reached his potential and doesn’t have a ton of upside. Didn’t always get consistent separation and he may struggle to do so in the NFL. Is he athletic enough to play in the slot?

Analysis

You know what you’re getting with Eric Decker. He’s a great possession receiver with good character who made a lot of big plays. He’ll contribute immediately and could potentially turn in to a solid 40-50 catch a year type player.

Experience

Three year starter at Minnesota.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: 1st team All-Big 10. Academic All-Big 10.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Business marketing education major at Minnesota.

Injuries

Misses 1 game in 2008 with ankle injury. Has knee surgery at the end of 2008 season. Misses majority of the 2009 season with torn ligaments in his right foot, which required surgery. Has screws from his surgery removed in March of 2010.

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Linval Joseph Position: DT School: East Carolina Height: 6’4 1/2“ Weight: 328 lbs Class: Junior 40 time: 5.10 Overall Grade: 6.35 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Line Specific Categories

Strengths

Great size and length – especially for a 3-4 end. A lot of functional strength. Shoots out of his stance and has the power to knock people back. Can beat double teams. Good hand placement and plays with good leverage. Equally good pass rusher and run stuffer. Anchors and slides well.

Weaknesses

Not very quick or fast and he won’t beat anyone with speed moves. Average at getting off blocks. Not a great tackler. Average awareness and instincts. Very raw and doesn’t use great technique. Plays high and needs to keep his pad level down.

Analysis

He was one of the fast risers leading up to the draft after showing off his brute strength and power at the combine. He has a ton of potential and he could play in any scheme (4-3 DT, or 3-4 End or NT). A long term project with skills that could still allow him to produce early in his career.

Experience

Two year starter at East Carolina.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Communications major at East Carolina.

Injuries

No known history of injuries.

Thaddeus Gibson Position: OLB School: Ohio State Height: 6’2″ Weight: 243 lbs Class: RS-Junior 40 time: 4.78 Overall Grade: 6.06 Draft Projection: Late 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Linebacker Specific Categories

Strengths

Very versatile defender. Projects very well to a 3-4 outside linebacker. Has experience starting at both defensive end and outside linebacker. Uses his hands well to keep blockers at bay while flowing to the ball. Excellent instincts. Solid tackler. Explosive first step when rushing the passer. Can flow through traffic to the ball. Does a nice job reading screens and play actions. Appears quicker than fast on tape and has pretty good range for coverage. Played a lot of special teams.

Weaknesses

Doesn’t have a wide array of pass rush moves. While he’s a reliable tackler, he’s not a big hitter. Will take poor angles in pursuit. Straight line speed is only adequate. Needs to further develop and could have used another year at the college level. Only average coverage ability. Can get over-aggressive at times and over-run the play.

Analysis

Gibson is a guy that will immediately come in and play special teams for an NFL team and could see time as a situational player at first. He needs to further develop his pass rush technique but I could easily see a 3-4 team drafting him earlier than his grade suggests. Gibson has very high potential and if he develops, he could be a nice outside backer for a 3-4 defense. Could also project as a will linebacker in a 4-3 defense, but will need to work on his skills in coverage.

Experience

Two year stater at Ohio State. Started at defensive end as a sophomore and made transition to outside linebacker as a junior.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a

Academics

African American studies major at Ohio State.

Injuries

No history of injuries.

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Mike Williams Position: WR School: Syracuse Height: 6’1 1/2“ Weight: 221 lbs Class: RS-Junior 40 time: 4.59 Overall Grade: 5.94 Draft Projection: 3rd Round

Non-position specific categories

Wide Receiver Specific Categories

Strengths

Very good size and bulk for a WR, which is one of the first things you look at in a guys ability to potential be your #1. Big, soft, natural hands catcher who almost never lets the ball into his body. Great route runner which he uses to gain good separation. Very athletic and good with the jump ball -- really highpoints the ball. Tough and physical after the catch. Productive when he was on the field.

Weaknesses

Extremely questionable character -- was suspended for one game in 2009 for violating team policy and then later reportedly quit the team. Word has it that Williams may have issues with gambling, which led to him leaving the team. Was academically suspended for the 2008 season. Not very fast, quick, or elusive. Run blocking could use a little work but he tries.

Analysis

Has all of the potential and tools to be a true number 1 target for some team, but his character issues are serious. He has 2nd round talent, and if he makes some team believe that he’s over his problems he could go in the 3rd round, but he is likely to fall further than that. If he stays out of trouble, expect him to be pretty successful.

Experience

Began starting during his sophomore season.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at Syracuse.

Injuries

No history of major injuries.

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John Jerry Position: OG School: Ole Miss Height: 6’5 3/8“ Weight: 328 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 5.20 Overall Grade: 6.26 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Offensive Lineman Specific Categories

Strengths

Excellent height/weight combo. Strong and locks long arms onto defenders (34″). Fires off the ball at the snap. Can completely man-handle smaller defensive lineman. Finishes blocks. Loves the pancake blocks. Handles most one on one bull rushers with ease. Good overall awareness. Excellent production and experience. Good bloodlines. Wide body guy with a large wingspan. Has experience playing right tackle and guard.

Weaknesses

Bends at the waist too often. Doesn’t have the mean streak you’d like to see from a man with his stature. Can get beat by quicker, gap shooting linemen. Footwork can get sloppy and has a hard time getting to the next level, especially on quick linebackers. Can get sluggish at times.

Analysis

Jerry could make a nice starting tackle in the NFL but needs to be in the right system. He’s not the type that will quickly get out on screen passes or get out on the linebackers on most plays, but can handle straight line blocking with ease. He’s massive and has a huge wingspan, so he can cover a lot of ground in the middle. Has the experience and versatility to play right tackle in a pinch, but will find his home at guard in the NFL.

Experience

Four year starter at Ole Miss.

Awards and Honors

2009: 1st team All-American. 1st team All-SEC.
2008: 2nd team All-SEC.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

English major at Ole Miss.

Bloodlines

Brother, Peria, was a defensive tackle at Ole Miss and was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Two of his cousins have played in the NFL and he currently has another cousin on the Ole Miss football roster (Jamarca Sanford).

Injuries

No history of injuries.




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Dexter McCluster Position: RB School: Ole Miss Height: 5’8 3/4“ Weight: 172 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.56 Overall Grade: 6.21 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Running Back Specific Categories

Strengths

Super quick athlete that is a terror every time he has the ball in his hand. Superb vision as a runner and is patient when blocks are developing. Shifty, fast and runs with a low pad level, which makes him even harder to get to. Willing run blocker. Excellent catching the ball out of the backfield or while split out at receiver. Has experience at quarterback in “Wild Cat” packages at Ole Miss and further displayed that at the Senior Bowl. Tough and unafraid of contact. Willing to fight for tough yards. Excellent work ethic and high character. Has a true passion for the game. Can be an excellent special teams contributor. Has more heart than any player in this draft.

Weaknesses

Very small frame. Has a history of shoulder injuries, which has to be taken more seriously because of his size. Won’t run over any tacklers. Quicker than fast type player who isn’t going to be able to run away from everyone. Jack of all trades that may not have a true position in the NFL.

Analysis

McCluster is one of those players that coaches just have to find a way to put the ball into his hands. He’s versatile. Able to line up at receiver, running back, quarterback and play on special teams. Could be the next Leon Washington type player if he can stay healthy while taking hits from NFL defenders. NFL teams will fall in love with this kid for his personality and work ethic. For a small guy, he doesn’t shy away from contact at all and isn’t afraid to run between the tackles. Will make an outstanding complimentary back but could also be taken by a team that already has a good duo of running backs, but wants to add some versatility to their offense and create mismatches on defense. Will also be an excellent special teams player. The SEC probably has the closest overall talent level to the NFL and he’s been very effective throughout his college career. If that’s any indication, McCluster should be on several teams radars in the 2nd round of the draft.

Experience

38 career starts at Ole Miss.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2nd team All-SEC. 3rd team All-American. Offensive MVP of Cotton Bowl.
2008: 2nd team All-SEC. Offensive MVP of Cotton Bowl.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Journalism major at Ole Miss.

Injuries

Missed four games in 2007 and six games in 2006 with a shoulder injury that has lingered.

Ben Tate Position: RB School: Auburn Height: 5’11″ Weight: 220 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.44 Overall Grade: 6.11 Draft Projection: 2nd-3rd Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Running Back Specific Categories

Strengths

Very quick with excellent straight line speed. Ideal size and bulk. A downhill runner that hits the crease as soon as he sees it. Likes to bounce outside and a very good runner outside of the tackles. Doesn’t shy away from contact and not afraid to run in short yardage situations. Decent receiver out of the backfield. Willing pass blocker.

Weaknesses

Will bounce to the outside too often. Doesn’t run with great balance and can be taken down with weaker hits. Not overly elusive for his speed. Uses his body to catch too often. Runs a bit upright and will often stop driving his legs on contact. Carries the ball away from his body at times.

Analysis

Tate has ideal size and speed for the position but has some work to do. He’s not as tough of a runner as you’d expect from an SEC back, but he doesn’t shy away from contact. He needs to do a better job of keeping his legs churning and getting his pad level lower when the hit is coming. With his strength and ball carrying, he is prone to fumble at the next level. There’s a lot to like about Tate as a change of pace back, so he could go somewhere in the late 2nd round, depending on how the draft shakes out.

Experience

Began starting during his sophomore season and has started ever since.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Criminology major at Auburn.

Injuries

No history of injuries.

T.J. Ward Position: S School: Oregon Height: 5’10 1/2“ Weight: 211 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.59 Overall Grade: 5.88 Draft Projection: 2nd-3rd Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Back Specific Categories

Strengths

Physical safety. Good size, but some teams probably wish he was a little taller. Has good hip rotation and when he came to Oregon they were going to put him at corner. Is excellent in man coverage. Has good instincts. Very good tackler with sound technique. Stops the run well. Breaks on the ball well. Very good in the open field.

Weaknesses

Not a fluid athlete, which is one of the reasons he didn’t work out at corner. Doesn’t have great hands and won’t make very many interceptions. Average speed for a safety. Zone coverage needs some work. Not very rangy and does cover sideline-to-sideline very quickly. Potential is limited. Has has a lot of injury issues due to his physical style of play.

Analysis

TJ Ward was the first played to impress me of the 2009 season. He had an excellent game against Boise State but left early in the second half with an ankle injury (but still tallied 12 tackles!). He has starter potential, and he has a lot to offer on special teams. Mid rounder who could end up being a steal because of the depth of this safety class.

Experience

Two year starter at Oregon.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: Honorable mention All-Pac 10.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at Oregon.

Injuries

Missed 6 games in 2009 with an ankle injury.

Brandon Ghee Position: CB School: Wake Forest Height: 5’11 5/8“ Weight: 192 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.40 Overall Grade: 5.94 Draft Projection: 2nd-3rd Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Back Specific Categories

Strengths

Excellent size and speed. Can be physical with the receivers and redirect them off the line. Above average ball skills and has long arms (32 ¹/₂“). Decent hips and can change directions without loosing much speed. Closes on the ball well when the play is in front of him. Good as a zone corner that keeps the play in front of them. Has flashed the ability to make a big hit on the receiver and break up the pass.

Weaknesses

Has trouble finding the ball while it’s in the air. Not the best in man coverage. Has trouble running with some receivers and keeping up with them as they change directions. Needs to be more physical in the run game and will fall off some tackles. Can be over-aggressive and guess. Instincts aren’t good enough to gamble as much as he does.

Analysis

Ghee needs some work on certain aspects of his game, but teams shouldn’t be afraid to take him in the later parts of round 2 or especially in round 3. If corners move off the board quickly, don’t be surprised to see him go at the bottom of round 2. He’s physical and has great size, so there’s a lot to work with. Ghee just needs to develop his ability to stay in the receivers hip pocket in man coverage, which is what he’s struggled with the most. Should fit in nicely with a team that plays a lot of Cover 2, where Ghee can keep the play in front of him. Possibly transition to safety down the line is not out of the question.

Experience

Three year starter at Wake Forest.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Communication major at Wake Forest.

Injuries

Misses two games in 2008 with a foot injury. Missed spring football in 2009 with a sprained knee.

Ed Dickson Position: TE School: Oregon Height: 6’4 1/8" Weight: 229 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.66 Overall Grade: 6.04 Draft Projection: 2nd-3rd Round Fringe

Non-position specific categories

Tight Ends Specific Categories

Strengths

Very athletic tight end with good size. Natural hands catcher. Very fluid and a natural runner. Very good after the catch and is very elusive for a guy his size. Has the speed to be a vertical threat and stretch the middle of the field. Decent blocker. Maintained a 3.0 GPA in college. Has a lot of potential. Saw a lot of playing experience and became QB Jeremiah Masoli’s favorite target. Offers special teams upside.

Weaknesses

Isn’t as physical as you’d like to see. Gives good effort as a blocker but isn’t going to wow anyone and he can be soft at times. A little slow off the line. Kind of a lazy route runner. May be more of an athlete than a football player.

Analysis

Dickson is almost a really big wide receiver, and that’s the reason he was so successful at Oregon -- because they split him out wide. He’ll give a good effort when blocking but he’s someone you want to give the ball to in the open field and let him make people miss. 2nd-3rd round prospect that may need to hit the weight room and show that he can be a physical presence.

Experience

26 consecutive starts at Oregon.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: 2nd team All-Pac 10.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Family and human services major at Oregon.

Injuries

No serious history of injuries.

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J.D. Walton Position: C School: Baylor Height: 6’2 5/8“ Weight: 300 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 5.22 Overall Grade: 6.59 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Offensive Lineman Specific Categories

Strengths

A real technician. Very tough. Has a mean streak and ability to wear people down. Good cut blocker. Very good pass protector with a solid base, quick feet, strong hands and punch. Good balance and doesn’t get out of control. Solid run blocker with the ability to move smaller lineman and get to the second level quickly. Sustains and finishes blocks very well. Has a great understanding of the game. Played in a system with wide splits between the center and guards which gave him a lot more 1-on-1 opportunities. 3 year starter in a big conference.

Weaknesses

Only average size for a center. Will try to overpower people and miss at times. May have reached his potential already because he has so much playing experience. Average athlete. Plays a little high at times.

Analysis

Walton is our consensus 2nd best center in the draft, but it isn’t even by much! He impressed everyone who saw him at the Senior Bowl by consistently standing up defensive lineman that were blowing by other offensive lineman in the pit and pass rush drills. He has a ton of experience and is very smart (29 on Wonderlic). He should be able to come in, learn an offense, and start fairly early if necessary. Transferred from Arizona State to Baylor.

Experience

24 strait starts at center.

Awards and Honors

2009: 1st team All-American. Rimington Trophy finalist.
2008: Honorable mention All-Big 12.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Speech communication major at Baylor.

Injuries

No history of injuries.




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Vladimir Ducasse Position: OT/OG School: UMass Height: 6’4 3/8“ Weight: 332 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 5.26 Overall Grade: 6.12 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Offensive Lineman Specific Categories

Strengths

Ducasse’s biggest strength, is his strength. He’s a huge guy with great weight distribution and strength. Dominated the D1AA competition. Terrific run blocker who gets good leverage and gets good push. Has good knee bend and he knows not to bend at the waist.

Weaknesses

Is still pretty raw and new to football. Level of competition wasn’t great and he struggled at times at the Senior Bowl. Has slow, heavy feet and stiff hips which might prohibit him from being an effective pulling guard. Chances of being an effective tackle are slim because of a slow kick slide and inability to handle speed rushers.

Analysis

Ducasse was one of the best stories to watch this draft season. He was born in Haiti and was obviously affected by the disaster there, but he kept his mind on football which shows a commitment to the game and achieving his goals. He should go to a team that loves a power running back and will be patient with teaching him better pass blocking technique

Experience

Three year starter at UMass.

Awards and Honors

2009: 1st team All-CAA. 1st team All-American (AP).
2008: 1st team All-CAA.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

African American studies major at UMass.

Injuries

No history of injuries.




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Chris Cook Position: CB School: Virginia Height: 6’2″ Weight: 212 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.44 Overall Grade: 6.82 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Back Specific Categories

Strengths

A very physical corner. Tremendous size for the position. Well above average speed and athleticism. Flips hips and changes directions easily. Aggressive with receivers. Does a nice job playing up on the line and redirecting the receivers route. Unafraid of contact and will fight for the ball. Uses his large frame to break up passes. Looks like a linebacker, runs like a corner. Could potentially transition to safety later in his career. Good ball skills. Can make the interception when given the opportunity.

Weaknesses

Not as aggressive in run support as he is in the passing game. Needs to do a better job of flying to the ball carrier and making the tackle. Can get lazy in his tackles on runners and doesn’t use his size like he should to make a hit. Can get high in his back pedal. Footwork could use some work.

Analysis

Cook is a rare physical specimen at the cornerback position. He has the size to make a transition to safety later in his career but has the physical tools to play corner right now. He’s big, physical and can handle taller receivers with ease. He needs to work on his run support game but overall, he’s a very talented cornerback with tremendous potential.

Experience

Three year starter at Virginia

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a
2005: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at Virginia. Was declared academically ineligible for the 2008 season.

Injuries

Suffered a broken leg halfway through 2005 season and was out for the remainder of the year. Missed three games in 2007 with a sprained knee.

Patrick Robinson Position: CB School: Florida State Height: 5’11 1/4“ Weight: 190 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.47 Overall Grade: 6.35 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Back Specific Categories

Strengths

Very quick and athletic. Smooth backpedal and good footwork. Flips hips and changes directions easily. Can run with most wide receivers without allowing separation. When in zone coverage, can read the QB’s eyes while keeping an eye on the receivers. Confident and not afraid to jump on routes or take risks. Excellent height/weight combo for the position. Has abilities as a return man. Willing tackler.

Weaknesses

Very inconsistent. Disappeared in some games. Production dropped tremendously. Not physical and doesn’t use his hands as well as you’d like. Though he’s a willing tackler, he’s ineffective against larger ball carriers. Strength is a question mark. Has some character issues as he was involved in an academic fraud incident that got him suspended for three games in 2008. Was also suspended for the Music City Bowl in 2007 for an unknown reason.

Analysis

Robinson has a lot of potential to be a shut down corner at the next level, but he just hasn’t put it together yet. He’s a very athletic defender but the inconsistency of his game will drop him on draft day. Robinson isn’t a physical corner and has problems in press coverage and limited abilities to jam a receiver at the line. Could be a great fit for a team that already has quality veteran corners on the roster where Robinson could come in for nickel packages until he further develops.

Experience

Started 25 games at Florida State.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: n/a
2007: Honorable mention All-ACC.
2006: n/a

Academics

Social sciences major at Florida State.

Injuries

Minor knee injury against Florida in 2008.

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Rodger Saffold Position: OT School: Indiana Height: 6’4 5/8“ Weight: 316 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 5.24 Overall Grade: 6.44 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Offensive Lineman Specific Categories

Strengths

Very experienced offensive lineman that began starting at left tackle during his freshman season. Good awareness. Uses his hands well to latch on blockers. Natural knee bender. Plays through the whistle and finishes blocks. Thick, strong build with long arms (33 ⁵/₈“). Quick off the snap and strong initial punch on the defender. Solid run blocker. Intelligent and can identify blitzers.

Weaknesses

Lacks ideal size to play left tackle in the NFL. Lower body strength leaves a lot to be desired. His footwork needs work and he has trouble with quick pass rushers that can change directions quickly. Doesn’t play with a mean streak as often as you’d like to see. May not have the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL.

Analysis

Saffold has the experience that NFL teams love and he faced some tough pass rushers during his tenure at Indiana. He’s pretty technically sound, but may lack the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL. His combination of size, strength and experience gives a team versatility at what position he could play, but he may be forced to slide inside to guard or play right tackle. Could still potentially play left tackle but his footwork needs to be further developed. Saffold really benefited from a strong Shrine Game week that boosted his stock tremendously.

Experience

Began starting during his freshman season and has started ever since.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2nd team All-Big 10.
2008: n/a
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

Management major at Indiana.

Injuries

Missed two games with a knee injury in 2008 and also suffered from a nagging back injury.




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Donald Butler Position: ILB School: Washington Height: 6’1 1/8“ Weight: 245 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 4.62 Overall Grade: 5.91 Draft Projection: 3rd Round

Non-position specific categories

Linebacker Specific Categories

Strengths

A very rangy linebacker. Great athleticism. Gets very deep in his drops and is tremendous in pass coverage – on one play vs. USC he ran across the field with top WR prospect Damian Williams and broke up the pass. Very fluid hips and looks like he could play safety. Solid tackler and wraps up well.

Weaknesses

Very soft and is very bad at taking on lineman at the point of attack. Over commits on a lot of running plays and ran himself out of position to make a play. Questionable instincts. Doesn’t seem to have great balance and gets knocked over a lot. Not very versatile and will only be able to play in a 3-4 because of his lack of ability to take on lineman.

Analysis

He’s a great option for teams that like smaller, speedier linebackers the can drop into coverage. He isn’t great against the run and has trouble in traffic, but he’s so athletic and rangy that he’ll fit in somewhere and should be able to contribute on special teams too.

Experience

Two year starter for Washington.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2nd team All-Pac 10.
2008: n/a
2007: Honorable Mention Academic All-Pac 10.
2006: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at Washington.

Injuries

Missed several games in 2007 with unknown injury.

Daniel Te’o-Nesheim Position: DE School: Washington Height: 6’3 1/2“ Weight: 263 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.76 Overall Grade: 5.82 Draft Projection: 3rd Round

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Line Specific Categories

Strengths

Very good size for a DE/OLB. Has good length and can keep defenders at bay. Is polished in almost every aspect of the game. Anchors well against the run and doesn’t let people move him. Has good hip flexibility to bend around the corner to get to a QB. Good pass rusher with a variety of pass rush moves. Aggressive and tenacious with a good motor. Good tackler. Disengages well from blockers. Has a little bit of experience dropping into coverage. Heavy hands and has a strong punch. Sets the edge well in the run game well.

Weaknesses

First step is average. Not very fast or quick. Doesn’t get great leverage or get under a guys pads. Looks a little stiff at times. Lower body could use some work in the weight room. Average athlete.

Analysis

He was severely underrated until a few weeks before the draft and his stock finally hit 3rd round level. He’s got a lot of potential and 3-4 teams will like him for his ability to set the edge in the run game and his potential for pass coverage and obvious pass rushing talent. Teams looking at him as a 4-3 end will think he’s very polished and ready to contribute, but teams looking at him as a 3-4 OLB will think he’s raw and needs time to develop. Might only be a pass rush specialist his first year in that scenario.

Experience

Four year starter at Washington, starting at both defensive end and defensive tackle.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2nd team All-Pac 10.
2008: 2nd team All-Pac 10.
2007: n/a
2006: Honorable mention Academic All-Pac 10.

Academics

Interdisciplinary visual arts major at Washington.

Injuries

No history of injuries.

Rob Gronkowski Position: TE School: Arizona Height: 6’6 1/8" Weight: 264 lbs Class: Junior 40 time: -.– Overall Grade: 6.39 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Tight Ends Specific Categories

Strengths

A huge target with a big frame and long arms. Natural hands catcher and almost never uses his chest. Very good run blocker and almost acts like a 6th offensive lineman. Very good athlete and fluid runner. Great redzone target and good leaping ability – he highpoints the ball. Very good after the catch.

Weaknesses

Huge risk because of his injury problems. It’s been reported that he suffers from spinal stenosis but Gronkowski has denied those reports. He missed all of last year due to back problems and his two older brothers (also athletes) have had disc problems in their backs as well. Not very sudden or elusive. Won’t outrun many people. Has some leverage issues when blocking.

Analysis

He would probably be in the discussion for the top tightend taken in the draft if he didn’t have his back issues. Depending on how he did in team physicals he could be taken anywhere from early 2nd round to the end of the 3rd. Amazing talent with upside if he can remain healthy.

Experience

18 career starter at Arizona.

Awards and Honors

2009: n/a
2008: 3rd team All-American. 1st team All-Pac 10.
2007: Honorable mention All-Pac 10.

Academics

Pre-business major at Arizona.

Injuries

Missed first three games of 2008 with an illness. Missed entire 2009 season with a back injury that consisted of a herniated disk and nerve damage.

Brian Price Position: DT School: UCLA Height: 6’1 1/8“ Weight: 303 lbs Class: Junior 40 time: 5.16 Overall Grade: 6.79 Draft Projection: 1st Round

Non-position specific categories

Defensive Line Specific Categories

Strengths

Very disruptive pass rusher. Plays with great leverage and always gets under a guys pads. Explosive first step and great quickness. Always in the backfield making plays or disrupting them. Excels at the bull rush and just overpowering his man. Can anchor well against the run. Has a powerful punch and can knock people backwards. Low center of gravity and good balance.

Weaknesses

Has serious conditioning issues and needs someone to motivate him. Struggles to disengage from blocks in the run game. Awareness is sub par and he looks lost at times. Will take himself out of the play at times. Seems to run through people rather than tackle them. Doesn’t have many pass rushing moves. Not very versatile and can only play in certain schemes.

Analysis

Price is a very talented player who’s draft stock has taken a drop since the NFL combine even though he tested fairly well. Concerns about his conditioning and commitment to football started to arrive and he’s been described as fat and lazy. The potential is there for him to become a great player if he plays a 1-gap penetrator and has some good coaches to motivate him.

Experience

Two year starter at UCLA.

Awards and Honors

2009: 1st team All-American. Pac 10 Defensive Player of the Year. 1st team All-Pac 10. Semifinalist for Bednarik Award.
2008: 1st team All-Pac 10.
2007: 2nd team Freshman All-American.

Academics

History major at UCLA.

Injuries

No history of injuries.

Highlight/Lowlight Video -- from our friends at Pro Draft Party

Mike Iupati Position: OG School: Idaho Height: 6’5 1/8“ Weight: 331 lbs Class: Senior 40 time: 5.30 Overall Grade: 6.74 Draft Projection: 1st Round

Non-position specific categories

Offensive Lineman Specific Categories

Strengths

Tremendous size. By far the best run blocker in the draft. Incredible upper body strength. Can really dominate at times. Gets a good push in the run game and really moves people. Has a mean streak like no other lineman in the draft. Very wide base. More athletic than you would expect and can turn his hips quickly and pull to the second level.

Weaknesses

Pass blocking is good, until he faces smaller, quicker lineman (like Geno Atkins, DT Georgia) at the senior bowl. Gets a solid push, but doesn’t get many pancake blocks. Does a lot of grabbing that will get called in the NFL -- needs to keep his elbows in and aim for the chest. Feet are very heavy and he plays on his heels at times. May not be mentally tough. Lower body strength may need work. Doesn’t play with great leverage. Tries to manhandle everyone and may be in for a rude awakening when he faces players just as strong as he is.

Analysis

By far the best gourd in the draft, but he doesn’t translate to tackle like some hope he might. He has pro-bowl type athletic ability and strength for a guard, but he won’t reach that status until he stops trying to manhandle people and just block them. Last first round ability -- likely to be overdrafted because of his potential.

Experience

Began starting during his sophomore season (2007) and has started ever since, except in cases of injury.

Awards and Honors

2009: 1st team All-American. 1st team All-WAC.
2008: 2nd team All-WAC.
2007: n/a
2006: n/a

Academics

General studies major at Idaho.

Injuries

Injured shoulder in last game of 2007 which required offseason surgery. Missed first two games of 2008 due to surgery.

Highlight/Lowlight Video -- from our friends at Pro Draft Party

Ryan Mathews Position: RB School: Fresno State Height: 5’11 5/8“ Weight: 218 lbs Class: Junior 40 time: 4.48 Overall Grade: 6.76 Draft Projection: 1st Round

-- Draft Breakdown Red Star Player

Non-position specific categories

Running Back Specific Categories

Strengths

The size every team would like their starting tailback to be. Incredible production. Big play threat with long speed and top notch acceleration. Great vision and acceleration through the hole. Tremendous balance. Is equally good inside and outside the tackles. Very sudden and quick enough to dodge tacklers in traffic and still keep his legs moving. Very strong, athletic, and explosive (10’1″ broad jump, 4.21 shuttle). Pretty good pass blocker but won’t knock anyone down. A natural hands catcher and a threat out of the backfield. Very decisive and quick to make a decision. Not a lot ot wear and tear on him. A lot of potential.

Weaknesses

Needs to work on his lower body strength -- thighs are a little thin. Carries the ball away from his body and may have fumbling problems at the next level. Doesn’t run over people. Doesn’t have a true second gear -- but he plays at 1 speed because he’s got such great acceleration. Route running needs work. Shared carries most of his career so endurance could be an issue. Missed a lot of time for injuries his sophomore season.

Analysis

Mathews is the best “complete” running back of this class. He’s got the size to be an every down back and carry the load (at some point). Has everything you look for and has the potential to be a superstar because of it. He isn’t talked about because both Spiller and Best are more explosive big play threats, but he’s more consistent and will probably be more durable throughout his career.

Experience

17 career starts at Fresno State.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2st team All-American. 1st team All-WAC.
2008: n/a
2007: n/a

Academics

Unknown major at Fresno State.

Injuries

Misses Humanitarian Bowl in 2007 with torn muscle near collar bone. Misses five games in 2008 with knee and foot injuries. Misses one game in 2009 with concussion.

Highlight/Lowlight Video -- from our friends at Pro Draft Party

Sean Lee Position: ILB School: Penn State Height: 6’2 1/8“ Weight: 236 lbs Class: RS-Senior 40 time: 4.74 Overall Grade: 6.31 Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Non-position specific categories

Linebacker Specific Categories

Strengths

Extremely smart player with high football IQ. Very hard worker; on and off the field. A leader on the field. Rarely takes false steps and a sure, reliable and fundamentally sound tackler. Not afraid to take on bigger backs head on in the hole. Quickly reads and diagnoses the play. Rarely, if ever, out of position. Knows how to get off blockers. Uses hands well.

Weaknesses

Doesn’t possess ideal speed. Range in coverage is limited. Not a sideline-to-sideline guy and can have trouble against speedy backs or receivers. Not a pass rusher. Though he’s a reliable tackler, he’s not a big time hitter.

Analysis

Lee is a stereotypical “lunch pail” player that comes to work and does his job. Always gives 100% while on the field and won’t be a concern off the field for any NFL team. Reliable, fundamentally sound and could have a nice, long career in front of him as long as he stays healthy. Lee is athletic, but his speed limits his range in coverage, which may limit his usage on the field. He played a lot of outside linebacker at Penn State, but will have to kick inside due to his range. Don’t count out the possibility of playing inside in a 3-4 defense. Lee is the type of player the type of player that every coach wants to have on his team. He can be a leader in the locker room, on the practice field and on the game field for a team and shouldn’t ever have an off-field problem. Due to the limited depth at the inside linebacker position in this draft, he could very well hear his name called earlier than expected.

Experience

Three year starter for Penn State.

Awards and Honors

2009: 2nd team All-Big 10.
2007: 2nd team All-Big 10.
2006: n/a
2005: n/a

Academics

Finance major at Penn State.

Injuries

Missed entire 2008 season with torn ACL in right knee, receiving a medical redshirt.