Jacksonville Jaguars

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft 2010 > 3rd Rounders to look out for.

// April 23rd, 2010 // 1 Comment » // Commentary, David Garrard, Gene Smith, Maurice Jones Drew, NFL Draft, Pocket Hercules, Scouting, Senior Bowl

Looking at the players around the Jacksonville Jaguars third round pick, it looks like we can get a quality starter!

Mardy Gilyard is a straight game breaker. I think he will go in the Second Round personally.

As noted many times on this blog, CB Parrish Cox would boslter the worst big play defensive in football last year.

Jacoby Ford rand a 4.28. he would automatically be the second fatest Jaguar behind Maurice Jones Drew.

Brandon Spikes would sell Jerseys and lead the defense for many years.

Tony Pike has a great arm, but chokes away the big game. Could it be any worse than a Garrard fumble in the 4th Quarter. Probably not.

3rd Round Mock Draft

67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mardy Gilyard, WR, Cincinnati
The Buccaneers need a receiver and Gilyard is tricky fast who is able to get deep or work underneath out of the slot.

71. Cleveland Browns
Chad Jones, S, LSU
Jones is also a baseball player and has good ball skills. He brings size and range to the position.

72. Buffalo Bills
Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
LaFell is a big possession receiver to help replace Terrell Owens. At LSU, LaFell had a productive career, catching 175 passes and getting 26 touchdowns.

73. Miami Dolphins
Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina
The Dolphins grabbed Sergio Kindle in the first round, did not have a second-round pick and are lucky here to get a wide body to play the nose tackle spot while Jason Ferguson serves an eight-game suspension.

74. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jon Asamoah, G/C, Illinois
The Jaguars had to wait from pick No. 10 to No. 74, and they still get a guy who can help at any inside spot on the offensive line.

75. Chicago Bears
Zane Beadles, OT, Utah
This is the first pick of the draft for the Bears, who need help at right tackle. Some say Beadles is a guard, but as one coach said, “He always blocks his guy.” That’s more than I can say for some of the Bears linemen recently.

76. New York Giants
Joe McKnight, RB, Southern California
The Giants were a much better offense when they had Derrick Ward in a three-man rotation. McKnight would blend in well with Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw.

77. Tennessee Titans
Jason Worilds, LB, Virginia Tech
Whether Keith Bulluck returns or not from injury, the Titans need to get younger at outside linebacker. Worilds is a terrific special teams guy with Elvis Dumervil-type rush skills.

78. Carolina Panthers
Jacoby Ford, WR, Clemson
Ford has world-class speed, having run a 4.28 40 at the NFL Scouting Combine. He can take advantage of opposing defenses that will focus on stopping the run and roll coverages to Steve Smith.

79. San Francisco 49ers
Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati
Alex Smith hasn’t locked down the quarterback job long-term, David Carr is not the answer and Pike can really throw the ball. He moves well for a 6-foot-6 guy.

80. Denver Broncos
Anthony McCoy, TE, Southern California
As expected, Tony Scheffler was dealt before the draft even took place. Here, the Broncos can get a complete tight end with blocking skills as well as receiving skills to replace Scheffler.

81. Houston Texans
Al Woods, DT, LSU
At 6-foot-4 and 309 pounds, Woods is a decent “one-technique” tackle to play in a rotation, especially on run downs.

Jacksonville Jaguars 2010 NFL Draft > 2nd Round Possibilities > Give me Jimmy Clausen! >

// April 23rd, 2010 // 1 Comment » // David Garrard, Gene Smith, NFL Draft, Scouting, Senior Bowl, Tickets, Uncategorized

Though The Jacksonville Jaguars don’t have a Second Rounder, trading up here in front of
Cleveland or Kansas City would go along way to quell the doubters from first day selection .

Cleveland who has started 8 different Quarterbacks in 10 years on opening day.

Kansas City has hired Clausen’s Notre Dame Head Coach and Offensive Guru Charlie Weiss who would LOVE to get a QB familiar with his system.

The Jaguars need a QB. Let’s get one.

Teams to watch in the Clausen/McCoy day two sweepstakes:

- Minnesota Vikings: the Brett Favre-led contender had a late first round pick but traded it to the Detroit Lions, which could signal that they think they knew Brett Favre is coming back, or it could mean that they know that at least one of the two quarterbacks will be available when they make the second pick of the second round on Friday.

- Jacksonville Jaguars: the middling team with the small fanbase that doesn’t show up for games was rumored to be looking at Tim Tebow as a way of appeasing the fanbase, but that ship sailed. Now, will the team stick with veteran David Garrard or jump up to take one of the two remaining quarterbacks?

- Oakland Raiders: have they given up on first round pick JaMarcus Russell? If so, they didn’t show it when they passed on both Clausen and McCoy with the number eight pick. Then again, the fact that both quarterbacks are still available heading into day two makes the Raiders’ draft strategy suddenly look potentially smart.

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft 2010 >> Tyson Alualu > First Round Pick > DT > California

// April 23rd, 2010 // No Comments » // College Football, Gene Smith, Jaguar History, Maurice Jones Drew, NFL Draft, Player News, Senior Bowl, Tebow, Thanks Wayne Weaver, jack del rio

Despite Tebow Nation’s notion that they know better than the Jacksonville Jaguars latest savior Gene Smith, the Jacksonville Jaguars zigged when everyone expected them to zag. Choosing to follow Jacksonville Jaguars ex-coach Tom Coughlin’s recipe for front seven dominance, Jacksonville decided to go Stroud-Henderson 2.0 and pair up Tyson Alualu with second year, one man wrecking crew, Terrance Knighton.

Even though it was apparent that Jacksonville could have traded down with San Diego, as they jumped to the 12 spot to grab Fresno State RB Ryan Matthews, I feel the Jacksonville Jaguars had their man, and they took him. Hearing Jacksonville Jaguars’s Gene Smith talk about him was to hear a man who had just gotten a new BMW M series for Christmas.

The newest Jacksonville Jaguar Tyson Alualu may be the ultimate character guy, relative to our culture here on the mainland. I could get into it, but it will be well documented in the Jacksonville media. Born and bread in Hawaiian culture, he is not subject to the diva-esque trappings that so many “Professional Athletes” suffer from. (See Reggie Nelson.) Another team I follow has added numerous American Samoans, you can see the rest of the team rally around them as they live and die with each passing play. It has lead to a Division Championship and a playoff birth. It is a culture that stresses teamwork and working together for the greater good. Something our government should take a long look at.

I applaud the Jacksonville Jaguars’ pick, as I’m sure if there was a trade to be had, Gene Smith would have pulled the trigger. Mel Kiper isn’t hiding extras brains in all that hair, just look at Jimmy Clausen. How did Did Mel Kiper’s ranking and clairvoyance work out for the “Best Quarterback in the Draft.” He woke up today in the same spot he was yesterday, knowing all 32 teams passed on him.

The only other question I have is did fellow Califonia alum Maurice Jone-Drew have a say in this pick? Pocket Hercules gets a vote if I were Wayne Weaver.

Check out some of the videos and check back here for the Jacksonville Jaguars Round Two and Three picks.

Tyson Alualu Highlights from jack bauer on Vimeo.

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft 2010 > CJ Spiller from First Coast News High School Football

// April 14th, 2010 // No Comments » // College Football, Derek Cox, Maurice Jones Drew, NFL Draft, Pocket Hercules, Scouting, Senior Bowl

Local product CJ Spiller would take the pressure off Pocket Hercules

There has been alot of talk about the Jaguars drafting CJ Spiller as some trades further up the draft board have allowed him to “possibly” slip to Jacksonville at #10. My personal feeling is while he would be a wicked addition as a One-Two punch with our beloved Pocket Hercules, The Geek thinks it’s all a smoke screen to garner trade bait to reclaim the second round pick we gave up for Derrick Cox last year.

If the Jacksonville Jaguars did take our hometown boy, i still think it would be a very, very good pick as the last time we had two #1 tailbacks, we got to the Championship game.

After watching some combine tape, I’m a fan of Jason Pierre Paul of USF. We need better coverage and or a better pass rush.

Here is the breakdown of CJ Spiller …

C.J. Spiller Scouting Report by Matt Horkman

Pros: Explosive player that is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Versatile. Will contribute as a runner, receiver and return man.
Cons: Can he run between the tackles? Probably not a true workhorse back. Doesn’t have great size.
Overall: Playmaker with a ton of talent. The true definition of an all-purpose player. Just as big as a threat as a receiver/return man as he is in the backfield. However, he isn’t Chris Johnson 2.0, but will still be very enticing to teams picking in the top half of round one.

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft 2010 > Wide Receivers available in the 3rd Round

// April 9th, 2010 // 2 Comments » // College Football, NFL Draft, Scouting, Senior Bowl

Jacoby Ford is on the list. Jimmy the Geek thinks he’ll be long gone. Last Year 8 receivers went in the first two rounds. Here is a list of Wide Receivers the Jacksonville Jaguars might take in the 2010 NFL Draft provided by…

http://walterfootball.com/draft2010WR.php

Carlton Mitchell, South Florida

Height: 6-3. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.48.
Combine 40 Time: 4.49.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.40.
Vertical: . Broad: 10-2.
Projected Round (2010): 2-3.
4/1/10: If Carlton Mitchell wasn’t in “great player” territory, he is now. Mitchell ran a 4.40 at his Pro Day.

3/1/10: Running a 4.49 at 6-3, 215, Carlton Mitchell might be nearing “great player” territory. Can a raw receiver be overdrafted based on his measurables? As long as Al Davis is in the NFL, absolutely.

1/10/10: Carlton Mitchell has declared for the 2010 NFL Draft. Mitchell had 40 catches for 706 yards and four touchdowns in 2009. He’s a mid-late-round prospect, but with a new coach coming in, going into the draft early was probably the safe move.

5/13/09: Carlton Mitchell had a really disappointing sophomore campaign, catching just 28 passes for 405 yards and just one touchdown. Some blame needs to go on Matt Grothe, however. Mitchell’s size-40 time will garner some attention.

7/26/08: Not only does Carlton Mitchell have a very impressive 40 for his massive frame, he also was very productive as a redshirt freshman; he caught 37 passes for 537 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Bulls in all three categories.

Andre Roberts, The Citadel

Height: 5-11. Weight: 195.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Combine 40 Time: 4.46.
Vertical: . Broad: 10-0.
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
1/29/10: This guy’s stock is soaring. He capped off an incredible Senior Bowl week with a brilliant Thursday practice. Details available in the 2010 Senior Bowl section.

1/28/10: Andre Roberts has been the best receiver on the South team. Details available in the 2010 Senior Bowl section.

1/19/10: As a senior, Andre Roberts finished with 77 catches, 792 yards and eight touchdowns. He also averaged 15.5 yards on punt returns. Roberts will be playing in the Senior Bowl. Make sure you catch our extensive Senior Bowl coverage every day next week.

2/7/09: It’s weird to see someone from the Citadel here, but Andre Roberts deserves it. He finished his junior season with 95 receptions for 1,334 yards.

Demaryius Thomas, Georgia Tech

Height: 6-3. Weight: 224.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Combine 40 Time: .
Vertical: . Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
1/9/10: Demaryius Thomas has declared for the 2010 NFL Draft. It’s not like Thomas is going to learn how to run routes in Georgia Tech’s goofy offense. There was no use in him wasting another year there.

10/10/09: Demaryius Thomas doesn’t really run any routes, but his production (24 receptions, 536 yards, 3 TDs in five games) may make some teams forget about that.

8/9/09: The monstrous Demaryius Johnson caught 39 balls for 627 yards and three scores in 2008.

Jacoby Ford, Clemson

Height: 5-9. Weight: 186.
Projected 40 Time: 4.34.
Combine 40 Time: 4.28.
Vertical: . Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
3/1/10: Jacoby Ford blew everyone away at the Combine with a 4.28 40. You know that a certain undead owner in Oakland was paying attention.

1/19/10: Finished the year with 56 receptions, 779 yards and six touchdowns. Has shown the ability to be a very good punt returner.

2/7/09: Jacoby Ford finished the year with 55 receptions, 710 yards and four touchdowns. Not bad considering Cullen Harper’s early-season ineptness.

10/19/08: Amid Cullen Harper’s struggles, Jacoby Ford has a career-high 26 receptions and 304 yards in seven games.

5/22/08: Jacoby Ford missed six games with an ankle injury. He had 17 receptions for 310 yards and four touchdowns the rest of the year.

Riley Cooper, Florida

Height: 6-3. Weight: 219.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Combine 40 Time: 4.52.
Vertical: . Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
3/17/10: Riley Cooper didn’t run at his Pro Day, but looked very good working out with Tim Tebow.

1/19/10: Riley Cooper had a fantastic finish to his senior year, concluding with 51 receptions for 961 yards and nine touchdowns.

10/10/09: Nice measurables, but not much else. Has 15 receptions in four games.

Jeremy Williams, Tulane

Height: 6-0. Weight: 206.
Projected 40 Time: 4.54.
Combine 40 Time: 4.57.
Vertical: . Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
1/19/10: Jeremy Williams finished the year with 84 catches, 1,113 yards and seven scores. He was also solid on kick returns (24.2 average, 1 TD).

10/10/09: If it weren’t for his vast injury history, Jeremy Williams would be higher on this list. Williams has 26 receptions for 525 yards and three touchdowns through four games this year.

Taylor Price, Ohio

Height: 6-0. Weight: 204.
Projected 40 Time: 4.38.
Combine 40 Time: 4.41.
Vertical: 37. Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.
1/29/10: Despite what Mr. Fake Bake says, Taylor Price did not have a good week in Mobile. Details available in the 2010 Senior Bowl section.

1/19/10: A physically gifted but raw receiver, Taylor Price notched 56 catches, 784 yards and five touchdowns in 14 games as a senior.

11/7/09: Taylor Price is turning some heads in his senior season, catching 36 balls for 513 yards and four touchdowns.

10/10/09: A 4.38 at 6-1, 212? Taylor Price might as well begin looking for a house in Oakland.

Marcus Easley, Connecticut

Height: 6-3. Weight: 210.
Projected 40 Time: 4.45.
Combine 40 Time: 4.46.
Pro Day 40 Time: DNP.
Vertical: 37.5. Broad: 10-3.
Projected Round (2010): 4-5.
3/1/10: With barely any playing experience, Marcus Easley is a bit of a project. But he’s undoubtedly physically gifted; at 6-3, 210, Easley ran a 4.46 and notched a 10-3 broad jump on Sunday. He’s a mid-round guy with a lot of upside.

1/19/10: You know this guy is going to work hard – he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns.

Jordan Shipley, Texas

Height: 5-11. Weight: 193.
Projected 40 Time: 4.44.
Combine 40 Time: 4.57.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.54.
Vertical: 36.5. Broad: 10-0.
Projected Round (2010): 4-5.
3/1/10: Given his injury history and age, Jordan Shipley needed a strong Combine to cement his Day 2 status. That didn’t happen. Shipley ran a 4.57 in the 40, which will likely push him into Day 3.

1/19/10: Though Colt McCoy suffered an injury on the first drive of the second national championship this year, Jordan Shipley didn’t use that as an excuse to pack it in. Instead, he carried the Longhorns, logging 10 catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Shipley finished the season with 116 grabs, 1,485 yards and 13 scores. He also averaged 13.0 yards per punt return with two touchdowns. Shipley will likely be targeted by a spread team like the Chiefs or 49ers.

10/10/09: No surprise that Jordan Shipley has produced great numbers (36 catches, 436 yards in four games). Shipley also has a punt return for a touchdown.

1/4/09: Granted a medical redshirt and will return for the 2009 season. Colt McCoy has to be thrilled.

10/19/08: Jordan Shipley has stepped up as a solid No. 2 option for Colt McCoy; he has 43 catches, 569 yards and nine touchdowns in just seven games. He caught 11 balls for 112 yards against Oklahoma.

Blair White, Michigan State

Height: 6-2. Weight: 205.
Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
Combine 40 Time: 4.50.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.42.
Vertical: 35.5. Broad: 10-0.
Projected Round (2010): 4-5.
3/20/10: Blair White had a great Pro Day, running a 4.42. He’ll be sought after in Rounds 4-5 for a team looking for a pro-style receiver.

1/19/10: The Blair White Project finished his senior campaign with 70 catches, 990 yards and nine touchdowns.

11/7/09: Through eight games, the Blair White Project has 52 receptions, 766 yards and seven scores.

10/10/09: Blair White is having a great senior season; he has 29 catches, 399 yards and four touchdowns through five games.

Shay Hodge, Ole Miss

Height: 6-2. Weight: 214.
Projected 40 Time: 4.54.
Combine 40 Time: 4.57.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.55.
Vertical: 33. Broad: 9-10.
Projected Round (2010): 4-5.
1/19/10: Shay Hodge finished his impressive senior campaign with 70 grabs, 1,135 yards and eight touchdowns.

10/10/09: Through four games, Shay Hodge has 17 receptions for 269 yards and three touchdowns. He caught eight balls for 122 yards and two scores at Vanderbilt.

Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas

Height: 6-2. Weight: 208.
Projected 40 Time: 4.56.
Combine 40 Time: 4.61.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.51.
Vertical: 34. Broad: 10-0.
Projected Round (2010): 5-6.
3/10/10: Dezmon Briscoe helped himself at his Pro Day with a 4.51 40, though Pro Day 40s have been known to be a bit shady.

3/1/10: Dezmon Briscoe ran really poorly on Sunday, notching a 4.61 40.

1/3/10: Dezmon Briscoe has declared for the 2010 NFL Draft. At just 20 years old, Briscoe would have been better off staying in school to avoid a very top-heavy receiver class.

11/7/09: Don’t be fooled by Dezmon Briscoe’s numbers – 54 catches, 841 yards, 5 TDs – he plays in a goofy offense that inflates statistics.

5/13/09: Just look at the numbers: 92 catches, 1,402 yards and 15 touchdowns. Unfortunately, Dezmon Briscoe doesn’t play in a pro-style offense and runs a slow 40, both of which will cost him on Draft Day.

Danario Alexander, Missouri

Height: 6-5. Weight: 215.
Projected 40 Time: 4.57.
Combine 40 Time: .
Vertical: . Broad: .
Projected Round (2010): 5-6.
1/19/10: Missouri’s offense doesn’t translate to the NFL, but Danario Alexander’s numbers (113 catches, 1,781 yards, 14 TDs) are still pretty impressive.

10/10/09: Danario Alexander will be a good fit for a team that doesn’t require its receivers to run routes. Alexander has 35 receptions for 447 yards and four touchdowns in five games.

Mike Williams, Syracuse

Height: 6-2. Weight: 220.
Projected 40 Time: 4.43.
Combine 40 Time: 4.49.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.53.
Vertical: 36.5. Broad: 9-10.
Projected Round (2010): 5-6.
2/28/10: Mike Williams posted just eight reps of 225 on Saturday despite putting on 10-15 pounds since he quit the Syracuse team in the fall. It’s apparent that Williams spent more time eating Cheetos than lifting in the weight room.

2/27/10: When asked if he was remorseful about quitting on his team this past season during Friday’s Combine interviews, Mike Williams laughed and seemingly shrugged off the question as if he hadn’t given it much thought. Williams is unquestionably talented and will be drafted in Rounds 2-4 by a team that doesn’t care about character. Personally, I wouldn’t even take a chance on this guy in Round 7.

11/7/09: Quit on his team. That’s a no-no. Many teams will shy away, but the Bengals and Eagles might be interested.

10/10/09: Two years after being debacled by academics, Mike Williams has 41 receptions for 623 yards and five touchdowns in five games.

2/7/09: Mike Williams is back at Syracuse after being accused of cheating last year. Hey Mike, next time, just pick “C” for every answer. A 40 is better than the big, fat zero you got.

7/26/08: Mike Williams has a great 40 for his size. He was also very productive as a sophomore (60 catches, 837 yards, 10 TDs). He’d be a lot higher on this list, but he has been suspended for academic reasons. I guess Williams was too lazy to find someone to do his homework and take his tests for him.

Myron Rolle fosters ambition in foster children

// April 7th, 2010 // 4 Comments » // College Football, Jacksonvill Jaguars in the Community, Scouting, Senior Bowl, Tickets

By Garry Smits

STARKE – Ryan Mote passed the helicopter, the patrol boat and the display of modern Army weapons and equipment at Camp Blanding’s parade field Monday and made a beeline for an artificial, 30-foot high rock wall.

Eager to take on his first challenge of the week before it officially started, Mote, a 14-year-old from Callahan, had a National Guardsman strap him into a safety harness, then began scaling the obstacle.

After several attempts to get going, he got halfway up before finally conceding – on this day.

By Friday, when the first Myron Rolle Wellness and Leadership Academy comes to an end, Mote should be reaching the top in more ways than one.

“They may not realize the full purpose of why they’re here right now,” said Sarah Markman, director of Family Support Services of Northeast Florida, who is staying with eight youths from Duval County. “But by the end of the week, they’ll be overcoming a lot of challenges.”

That’s the purpose of the Academy, launched by Rolle, the former Florida State defensive back and Rhodes Scholar, in a joint effort with the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Military Affairs.

One hundred youth from around the state, between 12 to 14 years old and in foster care, are participating in the Academy at no cost. Between Monday and Friday, they will learn about health, nutrition, fitness, sportsmanship, leadership skills and team-building.

There are 18 youths from the First Coast participating, almost 20 percent of the total.

Appearing as mentors or motivational speakers during the week, in addition to Rolle’s constant presence will be NFL players such as Greg Jones of the Jaguars, Samari Rolle of the Ravens, Antrel Rolle of the Cardinals; Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, who inspired the movie of the same name; Herman Boone, the former high school coach of “Remember the Titans” fame; and Olympians Rita Buck-Crockett and Lauryn Williams.

They will be assisted by a staff of more than 60 volunteers. Also helping will be members of the National Guard, many of whom are taking time out from training for an upcoming deployment to Iraq.

For Myron Rolle, who has been planning the Academy since late last year, opening day at Camp Blanding was similar to the day of a big football game at FSU.

“This whole week is going to be a fantastic experience for the kids,” Rolle said. “I’m very excited and thrilled.”

Rolle said foster children need to feel “wanted, loved and cared for.”

“This Academy was built to do that,” he said. “We want to have these kids feel included, as if they’re part of something special.”

During the opening ceremony, Rolle challenged the youths to realize their own potential.

“We’re here to provide an opportunity to see greatness in yourself,” Rolle said. “We believe in you. Now, you have to believe in yourself.”

Florida Department of Children and Families secretary George H. Sheldon said the idea for the Academy came from a conversation he and Rolle had last fall, after Rolle found out he had received a Rhodes Scholarship and would be going to Oxford, England, later this summer.

In addition to the speakers and sessions on health and nutrition, the participants will compete in team sports and physical fitness – complete with runs at 7:30 a.m.

“I think it’s going to be fun,” said Jay Jay Thompson, a 14-year-old who lives in Orange Park. “Sports, running, jumping … it’s going to be challenging.”

Sheldon said more important than the physical activity is building self-confidence.

“A lot of these kids have been moved from home to home to home, and there’s a feeling as if they don’t belong anywhere,” he said. “They have come to believe they’re not going to be anything. They can’t dream. This camp will help them to dream, believe and achieve.”

Thompson, for one, was ready to start believing.

“I want to learn to be a leader,” she said. “A leader is someone who knows what they’re about and who they really are.”

garry.smits@jacksonville.com

http://myronrolle.com/

Jacksonville Draft Sleepers > East West Shrine Game Breakdown

// April 5th, 2010 // No Comments » // Gene Smith, NFL Draft, Scouting, Senior Bowl

The 2010 NFL Draft has several prospects that will be taken in the sixth or seventh rounds, while others will be undrafted free agents.

Some of the most productive players at their respective positions were drafted in the last two rounds, if drafted at all.

Earnest Byner, Kurt Warner, Zach Thomas, Terrell Davis, Antonio Gates, and Priest Holmes are just a few of many in this category. Here are 10 players in the 2010 draft capable of having long, successful NFL careers.

CB Nolan Carroll, Maryland (6′0″, 205)

Terps burner ran in the low 4.4 range at his pro day, but he’s been clocked in the high 4.3 mark too. Carroll was off many team’s draft boards after he didn’t participate in the combine while he was in the final stages of recovering from a broken leg that cost him most of last season. He’s a quiet, hard-working prospect, and teams such as Cleveland and Pittsburgh have already talked with him.

SS Aaron Webster, Cincinnati (6′2″, 206)

This under-the-radar Bearcats strong safety ran a very impressive 4.49 at his pro day. His 21 bench press reps were also solid, and his speed suggests he has the tools to be a versatile defensive back if a team wanted to use him at cornerback, or in nickel packages.

ILB Boris Lee, Troy (6′0″, 240)

Durable Trojans linebacker has the type of build with a low center of gravity that can be a destructive force on the field. He’s a tackling machine as noted by his team-leading 122 tackles his senior year. Lee was named to the 2009 All-Sun Belt Conference First Team.

ILB Mike McLaughlin, Boston College (6′0″, 241)

When coaches and teammates describe McLaughlin, it usually includes a reference such as, “old-school,” “hard-nosed,” or “throwback.” He’s a personal favorite and I’ll be rooting for this tough, fiery Massachusetts native to be selected before it’s all said and done. He brings extra value as a capable long-snapper or perhaps, even as a fullback.

I see similarities to another former BC linebacker taken in the later rounds, Stephen Boyd, who went on to appear in two Pro Bowls.

OT Ramon Harewood, Morehouse (6′7″, 355)

When you’re six-feet, seven inches tall and weigh almost 360 pounds, it’s hard not to be noticed on a college campus. But when somebody is this size at a college with an enrollment smaller than many high schools, you can bet one of the football coaches will be interested. After he was finally convinced to play, it wasn’t simply for a free ride.

Harewood, a Barbados native, earned an academic scholarship and was focusing his studies on applied physics. His gigantic frame combined with the fact he’s only played a few years of organized football—although he was an avid Cricket player—was enough to entice 20 NFL teams to send representatives to his pro day in mid-March.

FB John Conner, Kentucky (5′11″, 245)

A one-time walk-on to the Wildcats program, Conner is now considered one of the best options at fullback in the 2010 draft. He’s regarded as a true fullback, capable of blowing up linebackers or grinding out short-yardage chunks when need be.

He also has soft enough hands to be an asset as a receiver out of the backfield too.

RB Curtis Steele, Memphis (5′11″, 195)

JUCO transfer had over 1,200 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns for the Tigers last year. He’s an elusive, slippery runner with the jets to bounce outside and put his 4.3 to 4.4 range speed to use.

QB Tim Hiller, Western Michigan (6′4″, 230)

Hiller is a tall and extremely intelligent quarterback from Parma, Ohio.

His outstanding junior season (36 TD and 3,725 yards) convinced a few scouts he just might be among the first few quarterbacks selected. But his senior season was nowhere near as productive.

With nice size to scan the field, impressive intelligence, and a top-notch work ethic, whichever team selects this four-year, 4.0 student should take their time to develop his skills and groom a solid future NFL starter

DT Andre Neblett, Temple (6′0″, 300)

On film, the two words that come to mind when watching Neblett are, “explosive” and “disruptive.” He was a key reason the Owls made it to a bowl game last season.

QB Rusty Smith, Florida Atlantic (6′5″, 225)

This Owls prospect has the physical tools to be a successful starter someday in the NFL. Smith has an extremely strong arm, and a deceptively quick release—despite using a somewhat of an unorthodox throwing motion.

He holds several all-time Sun Belt conference passing records, including touchdowns and passing yards. Put Smith on the field with better talent than he’s accustomed to at FAU, and he could really shine.

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Draft: Top 5 Safeties

// March 31st, 2010 // No Comments » // NFL Draft, Scouting, Senior Bowl

2010 NFL Draft: Top Safeties
http://www.box.scores-sports.com/2010-nfl-draft-top-safeties/

With the 2010 NFL Draft just a month away, I will be highlighting the top players at each position in this year’s class.

These are my top safety prospects available in the 2010 NFL Draft.

1. Eric Berry, Tennessee

A three-time All-SEC selection during his final three seasons with the Volunteers, Berry racked up 245 tackles and 14 interceptions in 39 career games.

The undisputed top safety in this year’s class, Berry is a playmaker in the mold of Ed Reed and should come off the board sometime in this year’s top 10 picks.

2. Earl Thomas, Texas

Just a two-year starter for the Longhorns after redshirting in 2007, Thomas finished his career with 10 interceptions in 27 games, including an eight-interception performance in 2009.

A likely top-20 pick, Thomas has fantastic speed that could allow him to project at both cornerback or free safety at the next level.

3. Taylor Mays, Southern California

A four-year starter for some obviously talented USC squads, Mays racked up 276 tackles, five interceptions, and 21 pass breakups over four seasons for the Trojans.

A physical freak with 4.3 speed at 6′3″ and 230 pounds, Mays’ lack of big plays in college is a concern and I still question whether he has the cover skills to be a starting NFL safety.

Regardless, Mays’ upside is vast and he could project as a great linebacker in the right scheme if he doesn’t pan out in the secondary. He’s a likely first-round pick this April, but pinpointing a more specific spot is difficult due to his unique abilities.

4. Nate Allen, South Florida

A three-year starter for the Bulls, Allen finished his career with 226 tackles and nine interceptions, including two four-interceptions performances in 2007 and 2009.

Allen has an outside shot to go in the late first round if things play out the right way, but he will almost certainly be a second-round pick in this year’s draft.

5. Chad Jones, Louisiana State

A two-sport star at LSU, Jones was a pitcher and outfielder for the Tigers’ baseball team in addition to being a three-year safety in football.

A second-team All-SEC selection as a senior in 2009, Jones finished his career with 158 tackles and five interceptions in 40 games.

Jones has the size (6′2″, 220) and physicality of an NFL strong safety, but is a bit lacking in coverage. He could sneak into the draft’s first round, but is more likely a second-round pick.

Jaguars should draft DB’s. Why? Peyton Manning. Kiswani’s Top Cornerbacks.

// March 30th, 2010 // No Comments » // AFC South, College Football, NFL Draft, Senior Bowl, University of Florida

Since the Jaguars don’t have a second round pick, and the prospect of Joe Haden lasting until the Jaguars get to pick is slim. Not to mention the train-wreck of University of Florida players to make their way into the Jacksonville locker room.

While i think the immediate need is definitely Safety, Cornerbacks are hard to come by. Hoping the Jaguars can trade out of their pick, I think I’d rather have 2 seconds as the Jaguars need depth, which comes by having as many tackle-willing warm bodies as possible.

Here are the Cornerbacks listed in Kiswani’s order. Kyle Wilson and Parrish Cox personally impressed me. Jerome Wilson out of USF played very well in some unusually stiff competition in the spread happy Big East.

-The Geek

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Kiswani’s 2010 NFL Draft Prospect Ratings — Cornerbacks

The 2010 NFL cornerback draft class is a deep one, although overrated at the top. Florida’s Joe Haden is the only clear-cut, unquestioned first round prospect in the group, with things getting a little bit muddy after that. There is a lot of dissension as to who the number two corner is in this draft, and very different opinions being floated around on prospects like Chris Cook of Virginia and Jerome Murphy of South Florida.

The New York Giants have faced the same issues in the secondary over the past four seasons – inconsistency and injury. With the departure of Kevin Dockery, as well as the questionable durability and inconsistent play of Aaron Ross, the unit could certainly use more young talent.

Here’s a look at the top cornerback prospects in this year’s draft.

ELITE

1. Joe Haden — Florida — 5′11, 193 lbs.

Haden’s athletic ability and ability to match up in man to man coverage put him at the top of this draft class as the clear number one cornerback prospect. Haden shows fantastic fluidity and quickness to match up with wide receivers at the NFL level, and the agility and ball skills to consistently get between his man and the football. Haden is no slouch supporting the run, as he shows the willingness and toughness to attack the line of scrimmage and make plays against the run. Florida cornerbacks have often struggled making the transition to the NFL game, but Haden has all the tools needed to be a stud at the NFL level.

VALUE – Top 15 pick

SECOND-TIER

2. Devin McCourty — Rutgers — 5′11, 193 lbs.

Tough as nails, intelligent, and passionate for the game – Devin McCourty is type of prospect that always seems to find success at the NFL level. McCourty is known for his ability to change football games on special teams, but that shouldn’t overshadow his ability as a cover corner. Extremely athletic with a physical approach to the game, McCourty is an underrated prospect with the tools to be a very reliable player for an NFL secondary.

VALUE – Early 2nd Round

3. Kyle Wilson — Boise St. — 5′10, 194 lbs.

A playmaker at the cornerback position, Wilson flashes game-changing ability that makes opposing quarterbacks wary of throwing in his direction. Wilson plays an aggressive, attacking style of football that NFL defensive coaches love to see and can make opposing offenses pay with the ball skills and return ability to make the big play on mistakes from opposing quarterbacks. Wilson’s one on one coverage skills need some work, but an outstanding combination of speed, strength, and athleticism to go along with his impressive production at Boise make him one of the top defensive back prospects in the draft.

VALUE – Early 2nd Round

4. Patrick Robinson — Florida St. — 5′11, 190 lbs.

This is a kid with all the talent and physical ability needed to be a Pro-Bowl caliber corner in the NFL, but whether that happens will come down to his willingness to be coached and commit to the game to become a more consistent player. A very fluid athlete with long arms and quick feet, Robinson has very impressive man to man coverage skills and shows the athleticism and ball skills necessary to deal with saavy NFL wide receivers.

VALUE – Mid 2nd Round

THIRD TIER

5. Perrish Cox — Oklahoma St. — 5′11, 195 lbs.

Concerns about maturity and character make me a little wary of having Cox ranked this high, but if he can get his head straight and focus on football – this is a complete cornerback. His coverage skills are excellent, as he shows the smooth hips, athletic ability, and speed to give receivers headaches on the outside. He shows great agility and body control and will make a play on the football on any mistake thrown his way. He may not be a hammer, but Cox shows the willingness to drop down into the box and support the run as well. Very impressive prospect but there is certainly some risk here due to questionable maturity.

VALUE – Early 3rd Round

6. Kareem Jackson — Alabama — 5′11, 196 lbs.

A tough, aggressive cornerback coming from a pro-style defense, Kareem Jackson is a guy NFL teams will be comfortable with on draft day. Jackson’s best assets come in his anticipation and instincts, as well as his ability in run support. While he isn’t the most explosive athlete or a stand-out playmaker, Jackson is a prospect who competes both in coverage and against the run and the type of competitive player NFL teams like to have on their defense.

VALUE – Early-Mid 3rd Round

7. Dominique Franks — Oklahoma — 5′11, 194 lbs.

A confident, hard-working prospect with the athletic ability and playmaking skills to be a difference maker in the secondary. Dominique Franks shows good read and react skills, and does a good job recognizing routes and watching the quarterback – assets that will be of great benefit to him at the NFL level. Franks’ skill set translates well to the NFL game, and he has the ability to be a ballhawk at the next level. He will be asked to be much more involved in run support going forward, and while he didn’t show enough willingness to mix it up at Oklahoma, Franks does have the tackling skills necessary to be an asset rather than a liability in run support. Needs to become a more complete player, but certainly has playmaking ability at the cornerback position.

VALUE – Early-Mid 3rd Round

BEST OF THE REST

8. Jerome Murphy — South Florida — 6′0, 196 lbs.

9. Brandon Ghee — Wake Forest — 6′0, 192 lbs.

10. Amari Spievey — Iowa — 5′11, 195 lbs.

11. Akwasi Owusu-Ansah — Indiana (PA) — 6′0, 207 lbs.

12. Chris Cook — Virginia — 6′2, 212 lbs.

Todd McShay tells Jacksonville what to do. Sees Tebow improvement.

// March 30th, 2010 // No Comments » // College Football, NFL Draft, Scouting, Senior Bowl, Tebow, Tickets

The workout is in the books and draft guru Todd McShay has sounded off. Paraphrasing the assessment McShay made on ESPN immediately following Tim Tebow’s pro-day workout on Wednesday, yes, the Florida quarterback showed significant technical improvement, but the results were not eye-popping.

Florida’s pro day may have set a record for scouts in attendance. It was the most publicized and celebrated pro day in scouting history and Tebow, of course, was the headliner, along with his personal coaches, who were on hand to conduct the workout.

After having declined to throw at the scouting combine on Feb. 28, to allow himself more time to change his mechanics from college-like to pro-like, Tebow lured scouts and media types alike to Gainesville on Wednesday. They came to see if the Heisman Trophy winner could throw like a pro.

Specifically, they came to see if he could tighten his throwing motion and quicken its release. I was told he did, on both counts. His left arm was higher and the delivery was more compact. McShay, a harsh critic of Tebow’s at the Senior Bowl, heaped praise on Tebow for the rapid technical improvement he made.

Here’s what is left to decide: Are the changes Tebow is attempting to make worthy of giving him a pass for throwing the ball low on several occasions, and having his passes wobble at other times, and for reverting to his old form when he attempted to muscle up on a few throws? Those are also observations that were made at Tebow’s pro day.

The common belief is that Tebow’s workout was sound enough that if you went there liking him, you came away liking him, but it wasn’t improved enough to change your opinion if you went there not liking him. In other words, he likely didn’t change his position on a lot of value boards.

In voicing his post-workout opinion of Tebow, McShay softened considerably, but he was overpowering in his opinion of Tebow’s viability as a draft prospect for the Jaguars. McShay said with great conviction that Jacksonville is the worst place for Tebow to go.

McShay explained that Tebow is a work in progress that’ll probably require at least two years of development before he could be expected to be game-ready. McShay used Indianapolis and New England as examples of the most advantageous places for Tebow to play, as he could sit behind Peyton Manning and Tom Brady and learn to play the pro game. In other words, there would be no pressure on Tebow in those places, whereas intense pressure is what Tebow would face in Jacksonville.

It’s a valid argument. Come on, be honest, would you be patient with Tebow’s development should the Jaguars draft him, or would you demand that he play right away? That’s it, be honest.

There will be those in this town who will tell you Tebow had a knockout pro day. They’ll tell you he proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he can play in the NFL and be successful. They, of course, are fans of the local kid and the Florida Gators.

He needs time. That’s the consensus of opinion from Wednesday’s pro day, that Tebow took a step forward, but he has several more steps and much bigger steps remaining to be taken.