Troy Niklas – © USA TODAY Sports Images

New York Giants 2014 NFL Draft Preview: Tight Ends

by BigBlueInteractive.com Contributor Sy’56

Current Tight Ends on NYG Roster:

Kellen Davis – 29 – Signed through 2014

Adrien Robinson – 26 – Signed through 2015

Larry Donnell – 26 – Signed through 2014

Daniel Fells – 31 – Signed through 2014

Where They Stand:

Jerry Reese has made a few attempts to increase the quality of the group over the years without a high level of aggression. The one time he went after a quality free agent in Martellus Bennett, their passing game was elevated to another level. However both prior to him and in 2013 with Brandon Myers, there was little-to-no threat of a pass catching presence at the position. It has held the passing game back from taking a step up to the next level. Davis and Fells were signed as veteran stop gaps. Neither pose as a threat to the defense but both can be serviceable backup types that block well. Davis is the one with starting potential; as he came in to the league with a high ceiling and he’s proven to be an OK player that can be depended on to do some of the little things well. Robinson has yet to live up to even half the hype that we’ve been led to believe. He may be gifted physically, but he’s had issues staying healthy and has shown nothing that should impact the Giants approach to the position in the draft. Donnell is a name I still have some hope for, as I think he has some more football skills to work with. All in all, this is a poor group of tight ends that needs an upgrade as soon as possible.

Top 10 Grades:

1 – Troy Niklas – Notre Dame – 6’7/270: 81

2 – Jace Amaro – Texas Tech – 6’5/265: 79

3 – Eric Ebron – North Carolina – 6’4/250: 79

4 – CJ Fiedorwicz – Iowa – 6’6/265: 76

5 – Marcel Jensen – Fresno State – 6’6/259: 75

6 – Crockett Gilmore – Colorado State – 6’6/260: 74

7 – Alex Bayer – Bowling Green – 6’4/257: 71

8 – Arthur Lynch – Georgia – 6’5/258: 70

9 – Austin Seferian-Jenkins – Washington – 6’6/262: 69

10 – Colt Lylerla – Oregon – 6’4/242: 67

Day One Target:

Troy Niklas – Notre Dame

There aren’t any tight ends worthy of the #12 overall pick on my board. But if NYG somehow trades back towards the end of round one, Niklas should be a thought. Niklas if a former defensive player that came on strong at TE this year. I think his upside is limitless, as I think he is already the best at the position in this class despite not having a lot of experience there. I think his floor is very high as well because he is going to be a dominant blocker in the NFL. He is violent, strong, and agile. He can man up defensive ends or get out in to space and stick with linebackers/safeties. Niklas’ size and ball skills are something that will present major matchup problems for opposing defenses and when it comes down to building up an offense, that’s what it is all about. I think we are talking about an early contributor that could turn himself in to one of the top dual threat TEs in the game.

Runner Up: Eric Ebron – North Carolina

Day Two Target:

Jace Amaro – Texas Tech

I think Ebron will be a first round pick, thus why I put his name above and not here. Amaro is likely going to slip in to round two and I think he will present good value there. He is another big-bodied pass catcher that plays the game with a toughness that NYG has been missing out on for awhile. He put up enormous numbers within a pass-friendly offense but has limited experience as an in-line blocker. That’s an issue when it comes to being brought in to the NYG offense. That did hurt his grade quite a bit but he is still an option for this team. He built up a reputation of being one of the toughest guys in the Big 12 conference and their coaching staff raved about his leadership. I think Amaro is a guy that will find a way to make it work as a blocker. As a receiver, Amaro is another guy that creates the much needed matchup problems. In addition, he has ability with the ball on his hands to pick up extra yards. There is some sneaky athleticism to this kid and I think he is gonna be a productive player in the NFL.

Runner Up: CJ Fiedorwicz – Iowa

Day Three Target:

Marcel Jensen – Fresno State

I went in to a session looking to scout Derek Carr and DaVante Adams in October. Halfway through I was writing more notes on Jensen than both combined. Jensen is a huge frame that moves surprisingly well. Even more, he is a soft hands catcher that can change direction with ease. I think Jensen’s game will be taken to another level in the NFL and when considering he will likely be a day three pick, there is an opportunity for a big value grab here. There are some fine points to his game that need work. He isn’t a good blocker mechanically, but he does show effort. He also needs better route running underneath. But all that in mind, I think he immediately becomes the tight end of the future for NYG more so than Donnell and Robinson.

Runner Up: Nic Jacobs – McNeese State (66)

Most Overrated:

Austin Seferian-Jenkins – Washington

I saw Jenkins play a few times in passing back in 2012 and was somewhat impressed. He was definitely a name I had circled heading in to 2013 but he was deeply underwhelming in every tape I saw. The size and movement ability are there and he has shown some impressive ball skills. But when I watch an entire game of his, I can’t help but worry about the fact that he is just another guy for almost the entire game. A highlight here and there won’t do anything for this team. Jenkins shows almost no urgency as a route runner or as a blocker. He doesn’t show the toughness in traffic either. For a guy this big, he is a softy. I don’t want guys like that unless we are talking about day three. I can see the upside but I saw too much bad tape to give him a grade anywhere higher than round 5.

Runner Up: Xavier Grimble – USC (64)

NYG Approach:

There is an issue here with this class. NYG could use a fresh talent early on at the position, someone that could come in right away and make a contribution. The issue however is that the TE class as a whole lacks star power and depth. In addition, I keep track of every NFL roster and it appears to me that there will be several teams in the hunt for a quality tight end. That is going to make it tough for NYG to bring in the right value at the position considering there are several spots that need to be filled on this team via the draft. If NYG can’t find the right value in the first 3-4 rounds, I would ignore the position altogether. The last thing they should want is yet another experiment at tight end soaking up another roster spot. But if there is a chance to bring in one of those top 5-6 guys where the value is right, I would strongly consider doing it. This is a position that could really change things offensively if the right guy is brought in. As it currently stands, their current tight ends are going to struggle to make the much-needed impact.

Travis Swanson – © USA TODAY Sports Images

New York Giants 2014 NFL Draft Preview: Guards and Centers

by BigBlueInteractive.com Contributor Sy’56

DISCLCAIMER:  I broke the OL previews in to two categories, guards/centers and tackles.  This can be difficult to organize because a few of these guys have the skill set to play different positions.  But keep in mind that versatility is part of their grade and I am grading these guys where I think they would best fit for NYG.

Current G/C on NYG Roster:

Geoff Schwartz – 28 – Signed through 2017

Chris Snee – 32 – Signed through 2014

John Jerry – 28 – Signed through 2014

James Brewer – 27 – Signed through 2014

Brandon Mosley – 26 – Signed through 2015

Stephen Goodin – 26 – Signed through 2014

Eric Herman – 25 – Signed through 2015

JD Walton – 27 – Signed through 2015

Dallas Reynolds – 30 – Signed through 2014

Where They Stand:

Not so long ago, the inside of the NYG offensive line was a major strength that paved the way for a powerful, reliable unit.  While they lacked the superstars, their presence was often overlooked by many, even fans.  Last season’s struggle on offense was largely because of poor performance inside.  The signing of Schwartz and hopeful resurgence of Snee could lead to the needed confidence of the starting pair of guards.  However the issue resides behind them on the depth chart and between them at the starting center spot.  JD Walton has some impressive tape attached to his name and I think he could be the guy in the middle, but there needs to be a better secondary option should his injuries arise or his level of play doesn’t return.  When it comes to the depth, NYG has a bunch of guys with limited upside.  It would be a major gamble to go in to the season with this current group.  They have enough bodies for sure, but is the quality there?  I don’t think so.

Top 10 Grades:

1 – David Yankey – Stanford – 6’6/315: 79

2 – Travis Swanson – Arkansas: 6’5/312: 78

3 – Cyril Richardson – Baylor – 6’5/329: 77

4 – Trai Turner – LSU – 6’3/310: 77

5 – Xavier Su’a-Filo – UCLA – 6’4/307: 77

6 – Gabe Jackson – Mississippi State – 6’3/336: 76

7 – Conor Boffeli – Iowa – 6’4/298: 76

8 – Dakota Dozier – Furman – 6’4/313: 76

9 – Gabe Ikard – Oklahoma – 6’4/304: 75

10 – Weston Richburg – Colorado State – 6’3/298: 74

Day One Target:

David Yankey – Stanford

Before I discuss Yankey, just know that I don’t have any guards or centers with a first round grade.  I would only support a selection here after a trade down in to the late 20s.  But that aside, I do really like Yankey for the Giants offense.  His versatility is a plus, as he played tackle and guard at a really high level.  Yankey’s greatest trait is his straight and run blocking.  He is a well-put-together 315 pounds with a strong base and heavy hands.  He was heading towards a first round grade late in the year, but I noticed a deficiency in his pass blocking on closer examination.  He struggles to keep his balance and his feet will get stagnant.  Yankey may not be the day one starter that I initially thought he would be, but the high ceiling is certainly there.  If he can be had, one way or another via trade, at the end of round 1, it may be worth it down the road.

Runner Up: Cyril Richardson

Day Two Target:

Travis Swanson – Arkansas

I have a much higher grade on Swanson than most.  Although he graded out as a 2^nd rounder, I think he could be there for the Giants 3^rd pick.  He is a huge body inside that moves exceptionally well at the second level against linebackers.  I am most impressed by his ability to neutralize pass rushers up the middle though.  That was a major problem for NYG this past year and I’m not so sure it has been solved.  Swanson could make a move to guard, as he showed the movement ability necessary to do so at the Senior Bowl.  If NYG wants to get bigger up front, Swanson would be the ideal center to bring in.

Runner Up: Trai Turner – LSU

Day Three Target:

Conor Boffeli – Iowa

I recently finished up my scouting of Boffeli; he almost slipped under the radar.  I was really impressed with his ability to both anchor his position against bigger defensive linemen as well as move in space in a zone blocking scheme.  His performance against Minnesota’s Rashede Hageman left an impression on me.  He is a blue collar guy that I think would have fit in perfectly with the NYG offensive line a few years ago when it was considered one of the best in football.  He is undersized and may need some extra time before he can be thrown in to the mix.  That said, I would want a guy like him developing behind the starters more so than Brewer or Mosley.

Runner Up: Trey Hopkins – G – Texas (74)

Most Overrated:

Marcus Martin – C – USC (66)

I’ve seen it in a few different places that Martin is being considered the top center in this class.  I didn’t see much of him during the season, but I have seen 4 games of his in the past two months.  I don’t see a guy that can handle the NFL speed or power.  He gets stood up way too easily and his feet are very heavy.  Martin is not an impact run blocker, but merely a guy that just tries to get in the way.  It worked at USC, but I think he’ll struggle to succeed that way in the league.  Poor center play can be exploited really fast.  I have him graded as a day three guy, round 5 or 6.

Runner Up: Jon Hilapio – Florida (52)

NYG Approach:

As I stated earlier, I don’t see a round one value with any of these guys.  By no means does that mean I am down on this group though, as I see a lot of potential value throughout the draft here.  NYG needs to bring in another interior guy from what I can see.  I understand they are trying to develop Mosley, Brewer, and Herman but I would be fine with one of them getting the boot after training camp if a rookie comes in a shows more upside.  The center position would be a main focus here if the value presents itself, as there talent there is questionable at best.  If NYG wants to get back to a quality rushing attack as well as keep Manning upright for the back nine of his career, the situation inside needs to be addressed.  Waiting too long could end up being a major limiting factor for this team.

Chris Borland – © USA TODAY Sports Images

BBI New York Giants 2014 NFL Draft Preview: Linebackers

by BigBlueInteractive.com Contributor Sy’56

*DISCLAIMER:  Grading linebackers is arguably the most difficult thing to do because of the different schemes and roles across the league.  These grades are purely based on NYG’s 4-3 front.  Some teams have a scheme that could use an edge rushing linebacker and grade him out very high while a team like NYG would view him as a middle rounder at best.  So please keep that in mind….

Current Linebackers on NYG Roster

Jon Beason – Signed through 2016

Spencer Paysinger – Signed through 2014

Jacquian Williams – Signed through 2014

Jameel McClain – Signed through 2015

Mark Herzlich – Signed through 2014

Allen Bradford – Signed through 2015

Spencer Adkins – Signed through 2014

Where They Stand:

The NYG front office and coaching staff has had their share of troubles over the years when trying to piece together their LB group via every avenue possible when it comes to play acquisition.  The Draft, free agency, trades, waiver wire, in-season street free agents – they’ve attacked it from everywhere.  Personally, I think this has been a below average group for years and there is a direct correlation between that and their extreme inconsistency on the defensive side of the ball.  While the passing era of football has forced teams to only play one or two linebackers at a time for a lot of plays, I still think the value of quality guys in the middle of the defense is vital.  Since I’ve been drafting for NYG in real time to compare years down the road, I’ve been calling for names like Curtis Lofton (2008), Sean Lee (2010), Mason Foster (2011), and Devonte Holloman (2013).  The impact of these guys against BOTH the run and pass is enormous and I am consistently noticing a lack talent at the position hurting this team every year.  The trade for Beason was a nice start, but this group is still starving for another talented player. 

Top 10 Grades:

CJ Mosley – Alabama – 6’2/234: 81

Chris Borland – Wisconsin – 6’0/248: 81

Khalil Mack – Buffalo – 6’3/251: 81

Anthony Barr – UCLA – 6’5/255: 80

Jordan Tripp – Montana – 6’3/234: 79

Ryan Shazier – Ohio State – 6’1/237: 77

Jordan Zumwalt – UCLA – 6’4/235: 75

Christian Kirksey – Iowa – 6’2/233: 74

Trevor Reilly – Utah – 6’5/245: 74

Yawin Smallwood – Connecticut – 6’2/246: 73

Day One Target:

CJ Mosley – Alabama

I should be a bit of an asterisk on this one because I don’t have any of these linebackers graded in the top 12 overall.  But should NYG trade back a bit, Mosley could come in to play.  This is a player that earned a first round grade, but I have been a little let down on his lack of progression the past few years.  I thought he was going to be a ‘special’ player that ended up with a grade above 90; however he never really took the next step.  Despite that, I still think highly of him and believe he is one of the safer bets to be a quality difference maker for a decade in the NFL.  Mosley is a guy that does it all physically but will also elevate the play of his teammates with his high on-field IQ.  Mosley is a great mover in tight spaces as well as in pursuit to the sidelines.  He is also one of the better coverage LBs in this class.  He fits in well with what they want to do with the NYG LBs and he would fill a major hole in this defense.  A true three down linebacker here.

Runner Up: Khalil Mack – Buffalo

Day Two Target:

Chris Borland – Wisconsin

I’ve been raving about Borland for over a year now and I’ve yet to take a step back.  He earned a legit first round grade on my board despite the lack of ideal size.  He is one of the most instinctive LBs I have ever seen and his ability to move in traffic is second to none.  Watch any Wisconsin game, against any kind of offense, against any level of speed and you will see #44 in the frame on almost every play.  Borland is a quality tackler and quality cover man.  He consistently beats blockers to a spot, putting himself in position to impact the play.  He lacks the physical gifts that some of these guys have at the position, but Borland will be a productive player no matter what.  He is a great value pick in round 2, and could be an option for end of round 1 if NYG ends up there via trade.

Runner Up: Ryan Shazier – Ohio State

Day Three Target:

Jordan Tripp – Montana

Tripp comes from a slightly lower level of college football, but he has shined against better competition in his limited opportunities.  He has the wiry frame, movement ability, and power presence that I saw out of Kiko Alonso last year.  He may not be on that level right away, but I think Tripp will eventually be that same kind of defender in the league.  He can fly all over the field, but also has the presence to take on linemen and deliver a violent jolt when taking on their blocks. 

Runner Up: Jordan Zumwalt – UCLA

Most Overrated: 

Kyle Van Noy – BYU (72)

Van Noy has one of the more productive resumes to look at when considering statistical compilation.  But I’ve seen him play almost 10 times and I notice a lack of consistent presence against blockers coming straight at him.  He doesn’t play strong enough at the point of attack; too often he is dancing around contact or even worse, giving up on plays.  His ability to pursue and rush the edge can get him drafted, but I don’t think he warrants anything within the top 4-5 rounds.  There is too much not to like here.

Runner Up: Shayne Skov (64)

NYG Approach:

As I previously stated, this defense needs an upgrade in talent at the LB group.  The addition and resigning of Beason decreased the level of importance a bit, but the issue is still there.  While the likes of Paysinger, Williams, and McClain can instill enough confidence to be a good-enough core at the start, there isn’t enough on the depth chart.  Injuries are inevitable and NYG is just one away here from having yet another year of LB liability.  There won’t be a player worth taking at #12 overall here, so I think they are looking at rounds 2-5 to bring in a quality rookie.  I would prefer one of those day two picks to be spent on one, but not to a point where the value isn’t matched up.  With that said, I think they can grab Borland in round 2, Tripp or Shazier in round 3, or even Zumwalt on day 3.  There can be a lot of debate on just how important this is, but I won’t budge on my stance.  The lack of talent and development at the LB position has held this team back more than most believe.

Calvin Pryor – © USA TODAY Sports Images

BBI New York Giants 2014 NFL Draft Preview: Safety

by BigBlueInteractive.com Contributor Sy’56

Current Safeties on NYG Roster:

Antrel Rolle – Signed through 2015

Will Hill – Signed through 2015

Stevie Brown – Signed through 2015

Quintin Demps – Signed through 2015

Cooper Taylor – Signed through 2017

Where They Stand:

Upon initial glance, the safety group looks strong and deep for the 2014 season.  Rolle is one of the highest paid players on the team and even though his production hasn’t matched his cap number, his value goes deeper than what we see on the stat sheet.  He is the leader of the defense and comes to play every Sunday.  He is one of the more versatile and reliable players on this team.  Hill and Brown have both shown game breaking ability here and there.  They are aggressive players that are always around the action.  Both have concerns though.  Brown has the knee injury he will attempt to bounce back from and Hill has had his share of off-field issues.  Demps was a quality FA signing that can wear a few hats and Taylor showed promise as a special teamer in 2013.  This unit is strong for the current situation they are in, but we could be looking at an entirely different situation a year from now.  How much longer can NYG pay Rolle?  And are Brown/Hill capable of overcoming their respective problems?

Top 10 Draft Prospect Grades:

1 – Calvin Pryor III – Louisville – 5’11/207: 86

2 – Hasean Clinton-Dix – 6’1/208: 84

3 – Deone Bucannon – Washington State – 6’1/211: 81

4 – Dion Bailey – USC – 6’0/206: 78

5 – Terrence Brooks – Florida State – 5’11/198: 76

6 – Vinnie Sunseri – Alabama – 5’11/210: 74

7 – Marcus Trice – North Texas – 5’8/193: 73

8 – Shamiel Gary – Oklahoma State – 6’0/205: 73

9 – Ed Reynolds – Stanford – 6’1/207:  73

10 – CJ Barnett – Ohio State – 6’0/204: 72

Calvin Pryor – Louisville

Pryor has been the top rated safety on my board since the early fall of 2013.  I saw him early two times and really liked his game.  He is such a well rounded player that makes the impact that some of the top safeties in the game can do.  Pryor is an angry missile from the secondary when defending the run.  His style is straddles the line of too-aggressive.  Pryor is a sound tackler that can be relied upon as the last line of defense in the open fiend, showing the ability to break down on the move and control his body enough to tackle an elusive runner.  In coverage, Pryor grades out as an above average defender, but lacks the elite movement ability.  He still gets his hand in on the action plenty, however.  There is a good chance Pryor will be the top graded player available when NYG is on the clock for me.  Even though the safety spot is not a vital position of need this season, he will still be a consideration.  He’s a reliable impact player that can change a defense.

Day Two Target:

Deone Bucannon – Washington State

Bucannon is the classic case of being a superb prospect coming from a poor defensive program.  Very few were able to see him play in 2013 from a general public perspective, but make no mistake about this player’s ‘special’ potential.  I’ll put his ability against the run up against anyone’s in this draft class.  He is a well built, explosive-in-short-spaces safety that can play in the box with the best of them.  He has consistently led that team in tackles with a career-high 114 in 2013 and has 15 career interceptions, including 6 this past season.  From the first time I saw this defense play, Bucannon always appears to be a pro football player matched up against kids.  He graded out as a 1^st-round caliber prospect on my board and he would be a great value pick in round 2 or 3. 

Day Three Target:

Marcus Trice – North Texas

One of my favorite lesser-known prospects in the nation here.  Trice will fight the naysayers all day, every day because of his sub 5’10 listing.  The lack of size hurt his grade, but he still graded out as a borderline 3rd/4^th rounder on my board.  Trice made an impact on every game I watched.  He is an enforcer that ball carriers fear but he can also play a deep cover 1 role, showing enough range to reach either sideline.  He anticipates the action well and gets his hands on a lot of passes.  Trice is a fun player to watch that will make his impact on a tea one way or another.  Sometimes I’ll overlook the meaurables when a player like this jumps off the tape as much as Trice did.  He is a spirited competitor that gets the most out of himself and others.  Day 3 will be when is start to consider this versatile defender for NYG.

I’ve put a lot of thought in to this, and admittedly am still struggling to come up with a clear cut answer on how to approach the safeties in this draft.  Overall, this group is below average when looking at my past grades.  Pryor and Clinton-Dix would help this defense; there is no doubt about it.  They are more talented than what is currently on the roster at the position with much more upside.  Their grades tell me they are worthy of the #12 overall pick, so those two facts should be enough to say yes to one of them if they are available, right?

Like most of you, I would rather wait on bringing in another young safety to this team.  One could make the case there is no room on the roster, and it would be a waste economically.  Although there is a little voice that says you don’t pass on high grades like this, especially considering the lack of stability at the position past this upcoming season.  In my ideal world, NYG passes on safety altogether in 2014 and reevaluates the position at this time next year.  You have to gamble on certain spots here and there and have faith that what currently resides on the roster will be good enough.

WR Sammy Watkins – © USA TODAY Sports Images

January 3, 2014 Bowl Games: 2014 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch

by BigBlueInteractive.com Contributor Sy’56

OKLAHOMA STATE

#4 Justin Gilbert – CB – 6’0/200

Fourth year senior. Some believe Gilbert is the top corner in this draft. I don’t quite put him on that level but I do think he has more upside than any other defensive back. Gilbert is very tools-rich. Tall, strong, fast, explosive, agile. Physically, he has the capability to do it all. I didn’t like what I saw in 2012 out of him, but he has a few ultra-impressive game tapes from 2013. What makes Gilbert so effective is the combination of abilities to jam receivers at the line and stick with them all over the field. He has his moments of pure brain lapse too often. He mis-diagnoses a lot and his game appears to be based on guess work. It’s hard to knock that area of his game though because I don’t know the background information including his reads and scheme. All said and done, Gilbert is a top 10 athlete but I don’t think he is a top 30 player yet.

#99 Calvin Barnett – DT – 6’2/300

Fourth year senior that spent two years at a junior college. Burst on to the scene in the Big 12 in 2012, earning first team all conference honors. Barnett is a thick, country strong interior guy that can fill a couple different roles. He makes an impact each and every play because of the attention he demands. Barnett is a bit of a loose cannon. There is a certain nastiness to him. He lacks discipline with both his technique and post-play antics. There is a lot to love and hate about that attitude. Barnett will be a solid mid-round pick that can handle the power of the NFL right away.

#87 Tracy Moore – WR – 6’2/215

Fifth year senior that missed most of 2012 with an ankle injury. Moore is a gifted athlete that is put together was well as one would want in a receiver. His career got off to a nice start, but a combination of injuries and trouble with the law have kept his stock down a bit. Moore is a solid possession receiver that makes things happen after the catch. He is strong and aggressive and loves to bully the defensive backs. Willing and able over the middle in traffic, Moore has proven to be a solid third down target. There is some hidden upside here as long as Moore can work on his craft without distractions. Had he not been injured and stayed away from off the field trouble, we may be discussing him as a potential 2^nd rounder. Now, I see him as a 4^th/5^th rounder.

#8 Daytawion Lowe – S – 5’11/205

Fifth year senior that missed 2010 with a shoulder injury. Lowe is a tackling machine that lays bigger than his listed size. He led the team in tackles in 2011 and 2012, second in 2013. He’s quicker than he is fast. I like him as an in-the-box safety that supports the run and covers underneath. I think he’ll struggle to play in deep coverage, as the catch speed simply isn’t there. His hips and ankles look tight. He is a different player when moving downhill than when he moves laterally. I think he can be a solid back up and special teamer in the NFL. 5^th/6^th rounder.

#11 Shaun Lewis – OLB – 5’11/225

Fourth year senior. Undersized player that gets lost in the shuffle sometimes. But I’ve seen three of his games in 2013 and he makes a lot of impact plays. He is a brick house that plays as hard as any linebacker you will find. Lewis can use his height to his advantage. He can sneak underneath blockers and locate the football. Lewis struggles to sit tight and shed blocks though. He will shoot gaps without diagnosing, opening up huge cutback lanes for the opposing back. In the right scheme where he can attack, Lewis might be a guy that makes 100+ tackles per year in the league. I think he is a 5^th/6^th rounder at worst.

Potential UDFAs to Look For:

#31 Jeremy Smith – RB – 5’10/210
#71 Parker Graham – LT – 6’7/315
#7 Shamiel Gary – S – 6’0/210
#51 Brandon Webb – G – 6’3/328
#1- Clint Chelf – QB – 6’1/210

MISSOURI

*#47 Kony Ealy – DE – 6’5/275

Fourth year junior. Has not declared yet but many expect him to. There are some people in the Midwest that I speak with every year, and they have said Ealy has more upside that Aldon Smith and Sheldon Richardson did when they were in college. Pretty high praise if you ask me. Ealy is put together well. He is a comfortable 270+ pounds with above average movement ability. Ealy is an underachiever at the moment. He plays too high and doesn’t have the power presence you would think a player of his size would have. He doesn’t have the second gear when rushing the edge, either. I’m not high on Ealy but nobody can deny the upside. He has a lot of work to do and it will be a matter of how he approaches that. Probable 1^st rounder if he comes out.

*#20 Henry Josey – RB – 5’10/190

Fourth year junior. A great story here. Suffered a gruesome, possible career ending injury in 2012. Came back in 2013 to lead the team in rushing , averaging over 6 yards per carry. Josey is quick and decisive with runaway speed. Despite being under 200 pounds, he can run inside with some force. Personally I think he needs to return for another year. His production is impressive but may be inflated due to the scheme he plays in. He isn’t what I would call a special back. A poor man’s Reggie Bush without the upside. If he comes out, we are looking at a 3^rd rounder a best.

#52 Michael Sam – DE – 6’2/255

Fifth year senior. Opposite situation of Ealy. Sam has evolved in to a quality football player over his five years at Mizzou. He led the team with 10.5 sacks and 18.5 TFL this year. Sam has a ton of functional strength. He can handle the power blockers and run past the speed blockers. I think his best role will be a 3-4 OLB at the next level. He doesn’t have the length to play a DE spot play in, play out and he has shown some ability to work well in space. Top 100 pick, maybe top 75.

#31 EJ Gaines – CB – 5’11/195

Fourth year senior that has had a very accomplished career. I want to get another 2-3 looks a Gaines in the coming months. So far, I love what I see out of him. He is a physical player that sticks his hat in there against the run like a linebacker. Gaines shows nice ball skills down the field with proper balance and timing. He never seems to be playing catch up, which you have to respect a lot. He is a fluid mover that makes the game look easy. Right now I think he is a top 100 guy but I’ll need to see more before I put him in to the round 2 area.

#68 Justin Britt – LT – 6’6/315

Fifth year senior. The 2014 left tackle class might be the best in a long time. We all know the popular names like the back of our hand, but Britt is a guy that is close to their level and never gets talked about. I really like his pro potential and I think he can be a quality starter. He has experience at both RT and LT. His footwork and balance make me believe he can be a left side guy in the NFL. He carries 310+ pounds with ease and I think he has the frame for some more. His greatest asset are his movement skills and consistent technique. He’ll need some work in the weight room but in a year or two, I think we are looking at a quality starter.

#2 L’Damian Washington – WR – 6’4/205

Fifth year senior. Led the Tigers in receiving in 2013 among a group of talented receivers. Washington is a deep threat that has long strides with the ability to take a top off a secondary. His tool set is among the top 10 in the nation, but his skill set hasn’t caught up yet. When I watch him, I always ask myself why isn’t he better than what I see on tape? I’m not sure he has the physical style necessary to factor all over the field. Right now Washington is a limited player that can still be an asset to an offense that needs a deep route runner. But besides that, he is a backup. 4^th/5^th rounder with upside.

#85 Marcus Lucas – WR – 6’5/220

Fourth year senior. Another tools-rich kid that has not lived up to expectations. Lucas has a lot of experience and has shown flashes on a few occasions of being a big time player. His size and speed along can get him drafted. He has the speed to get behind a defense, but he was used underneath in the games I watched. He is a guy that can create mismatches. I think we are looking at a day three guy here.

#48 Andrew Wilson – MLB – 6’3/240

Fifth year senior. Leading tackler each of the past three years. Wilson has played the middle and outside in Missouri’s scheme. He has been a reliable contributor and the source of a lot of big plays. He dances left and right, back and forth pre-snap. Wilson is a strong player between the tackles but his lack of speed to the edge was exposed in the games I saw. He is a slow change of direction guy that plays too high. He does well when taking on blocks though and I think he can be a solid player in a 3-4 scheme down the road. Day three prospect.

Potential UDFAs to Look For:

#1 James Franklin – QB – 6’2/225
#7 Randy Ponder – CB – 5’10/195
#17 Matt White – S – 6’0/195

CLEMSON

*#2 Sammy Watkins – WR – 6’1/205

Third year junior. Considered by some as the top receiver in this draft. Watkins was an All-American as a freshman in 2011, but has failed to take the next step since then. 2012 was a rough year for him with a suspension, ankle injury, and stomach virus. He has come back strong in 2013 and has put himself back in to top 15 consideration. Watkins is one of the top YAC receivers you will find. He runs with the ball as if he were a running back, showing a low pad level and the power to break tackles. I can see he has strong hands, very strong hands. The ball has minimal-to-no wiggle upon contact. But he has had a case of the drops in 2013, thus I wouldn’t say he has a top grade for catching ability like most seem to give him. Watkins seems to be a very smart player that understands what opposing defenses are doing. He is an excellent route runner that knows how to set defensive backs up for failure. Combine that with his outstanding movement ability and you may have a top tier playmaker in Watkins. I will personally have him graded somewhere between 20-35 overall, but I think he gets taken in the top 15.

*#3 Vic Beasley – DE – 6’3/235

Fourth year junior that has not yet declared. After Clowney, many think Beasley is the top edge rusher. He is such an explosive, agile, flexible athlete when getting after the passer that it’s hard not to project him as a potentially special player. In the weight room, he is one of the strongest players on the entire Clemson roster and the power will show up on tape when he hits a ball carrier. While he has the frame for more weight, I question if Beasley will end up as one of the situational pass rushers that simply can’t hack it as an every down guy. He can be moved to the side by a bigger offensive tackle too easily, and that would bother me if I were trying to draft him. Teams ran the ball right at him numerous times because his impact on a game is minimal in those situations. His hustle, aggression, and speed are nullified when the action is coming his way. Beasley will be a first round pick, possibly even in the top 10. But a guy that has severe power presence concerns will needs a very specific role and scheme. I don’t like taking guys like that in the first round.

#10 Tajh Boyd – QB – 6’1/225

Fourth year senior that has re-written the record books at Clemson. A statistical compiler that has had some of the best talent and the best scheme to work with. Boyd was considered a borderline first round talent heading in to 2013, but I don’t think this year has helped him much. Boyd has a quick release and the power to shoot the ball downfield on a line. His arm talent is there. Boyd is shorter than you want and has had issue with his accuracy in 2013. He struggles when he is on the run being chased. Boyd also tucks the ball and run too early. I question his ability to stand strong in the pocket and go through progressions. He has a lot of adjustment to go though once he enters the league and I don’t see the upside being any higher than a Chase Daniel type. Quality backup, but not someone you take on day 1 or day 2 of draft weekend.

#63 Brandon Thomas – LT – 6’3/305

Fifth year senior that has started at left tackle for three years now. Thomas is a name that doesn’t get enough attention. He is going to have a much higher grade on my sheet that what’s put out there. Because of his size, he will likely move inside to guard. With that in mind, Thomas does all of the little things right to lead me to believe he will be a good one at the next level. He has a lot of power, a guy that creates a new line of scrimmage play after play when run blocking. He isn’t blessed with tremendous movement tools, but he is a consistent player because of his mechanics and strong hands. I really liked what I saw in his matchup against Clowney. Despite being out-classed talent wise, Thomas put forth an admirable performance from start to finish. His vast experience at left tackle will only help teams when building a depth chart. Thomas has a ton of value in my eyes, and may end up in the top 75 overall on my board.

*#1 Martavis Bryant – WR – 6’5/200

Third year junior that did send paper work to the advisory board. Bryant is a big time deep threat with enormous upside. He doesn’t have a lot experience in teams of balls being thrown his way, but has shown the talent to be a big time receivers. I would advise him to return to school because I think he could be a top 10 guy in 2015 if he had a nice senior year without Watkins in the picture. Bryant isn’t physical and he doesn’t get himself open underneath. He does make a lot of catches when covered though. There are some teams that will view him as a first round caliber athlete and it could get him drafted in round 2. But I would likely grade him out as a 3^rd/4^th rounder with big time upside.

#25 Roderick McDowell – RB – 5’9/195

Fifth year senior that has played behind some of the best RB talent that college football has seen from one school in recent years. McDowell had a huge 2013 campaign and some believe he could end up being a top 100 pick. I like him and his game, but I’m not sure he warrants something that high. McDowell comes from an extremely favorable scheme for the running game and I think his production was a result of the playmakers around him, not the other way around. At that size, you need to have game breaking speed that runs away from defenders, elite agility, and/or wide receiver-caliber hands. McDowell is average across the board. I think he gets drafted late and can stick somewhere as a 3^rd string guy for a few year.

Potential UDFAs to Look For:

#33 Spencer Shuey – OLB – 6’3/240
#8 Darius Robinson – CB – 5’10/175
#62 Tyler Shatley – RG – 6’3/300

OHIO STATE

Carlos Hyde – RB – 6’0/235

Fourth year senior. Hyde did more for his draft position in 2013 than arguably any senior in the nation. Despite missing 3 games because of a suspension, Hyde rushed for 1,408 yards averaging over 7.5 yards per carry. Hyde is not your space back that has a lot of big runs because of speed and elusiveness. He is a brick house that doesn’t go down on initial contact and moves the pile forward every time he has the ball. He is an impressive, old school running back that moves the chains and grinds down the clock. There is a lot to like about his running style. I need to try and look in to his off the field trouble but if that checks out, his game tape warrants a top 75 pick.

*#10 Ryan Shazier – OLB – 6’2/230

Third year junior. Led the team in tackles in 2012 and 2013 by a wide margin. Shazier is a fun player to watch. He improved a lot as the year progressed and I‘ve had to re-evaluate my outlook on him. He is a little thin below the waist and it shows up when he takes on blocks. But when he is in space, Shazier might be one of the best linebackers in the nation. He plays really fast and maintains strength when approaching the ball carrier. He has a nasty style to him and it helps. Shazier appears lost in coverage. He isn’t much of an assignment linebacker. When you tell him to make reads and flow towards the action, he struggles. But tell him to blitz a gap and pursue, he can shine. Right now I think he is a lock for the top 75 but he could sneak in to the top 45.

*#1 Bradley Roby – CB – 5’11/192

Third year junior that has already declared. Came in to 2013 as one of the top CBs in the nation but I have been unimpressed all year. Roby has elite movement skills with legit sub 4.4 speed. He can turn his hips and change direction with ease. My issues with him are the extreme lack of ball skills. He is awful in deep coverage when it comes to locating the ball and making a play. In addition, he doesn’t always make the effort I want to see against the run. There is a lot I don’t like about his game I and won’t have a top 100 overall grade on him. He will probably be a day two pick though.

#74 Jack Mewhort – LT – 6’6/308

Fifth year senior. Mewhort started off as a guard playing both spots. He made the move to LT prior to the 2012 season and has done a nice job. Mewhort is a solid blocker all around that doesn’t jump off the screen, but gets his job done consistently. I want to really dive in to some of his tapes in the coming months. I want to see if he can play guard at the next level. I think his value will be as a versatile backup that can play multiple spots. 3^rd/4^th rounder I think with potential to start.

#4 CJ Barnett – S – 6’1/204

Fifth year senior. Hard hitting, downhill strong safety with a lot of experience as a starter. Has been the go-to-guy in that secondary for a few years. Barnett does a lot of little things well that are hard to pick up on if you just watch him on TV. From the All-22 angle, its easy to see the impact he has on that defense. He is a smart player with quick reaction. He is physically limited in man coverage. He has tight ankles and hips but if he is used correctly, I think he can be a starter in the NFL down the road. 3^rd/4^th rounder.

#10 Corey Brown – WR – 6’0/190

Fifth year senior. Brown is a reliable underneath receiver that can run himself open. Very good route runner and does the little things right. Hands catcher that plays more physical than you would assume. Brown doesn’t scare anyone with speed or size, but he is quietly effective week in, week out. I think he is worth a late round draft choice. He can be a solid backup and brings some return ability to the team as well.

Potential UDFAs to Look For:

#78 Andrew Norwell – LG – 6’6/316
#7 Jordan Hall – RB – 5’9/191
#71 Corey Linsley – C – 6’3/297