Tag Archives: NFL

2013 NFL Draft Prospect, Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/23/2013 - 8:27 pm | , ,
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Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

Lane Johnson is an all-around athlete. Originally a high school QB, Johnson played TE in junior college before switching to right tackle. Finally, in his senior year at OK, coaches moved him to left tackle where he protected QB Landry Jones and later dominated in the Senior Bowl.

At the combine, Johnson proved just how athletic he is with a 4.72 40 yard dash time, a mere .01 second slower than top O-Line performer, Terron Armstead. Johnson’s time was better than many tight ends, and such burst will give teams a huge advantage in the run game. He bested all offensive linemen in broad jump by 2 inches.

The only possible knock against Johnson is his little experience at left tackle. However, I say he’s already more than proven his worth and abilities at the position. NFL coaches can teach him to master the fundamentals, but it is rare to find such raw athleticism. He proved Saturday that he deserves to go within the Top-15, possibly Top-10.

NFL Prospect, Kenny Vaccaro, FS, Texas

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 11:35 pm |
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Kenny Vaccaro, FS, Texas

Born:  Brownwood, Texas           Years in College: 3

INTs: 5                                                                 Forced Fumbles: 4 

Tackles:  231                                                      Sacks:   2.0     

Overview: Vaccaro’s 6’1″ height is the ideal for modern NFL safeties. He’s able to cover the slot exceptionally well and has a good combination of speed and strength. He has a very aggressive mentality which will lead to many pass deflections and interceptions, but has hurt him when trying to make open-field tackles. He needs to work on wrapping up the ballcarrier rather than going for the big hit.

Combine Results:  

  • 40 Yard Dash:4.63 seconds
  • Bench Press: 15 Reps
  • Vertical Jump: 38.0 inches
  • Broad Jump: 121.0 inches
  • 3 Cone Drill: 6.78 seconds
  • 20 yard shuttle: 4.06 seconds

Draft Rankings Overall/Position:  CBS Sports 14/1 

Projected Team and Round: Vaccaro is a definite first rounder, but for now I see him going in the middle of the round. He did well at the combine, showing incredible quickness and a ball-hawking mentality. He may struggle with more physical receivers, but his size will help. Many teams around the league need a leader like Vaccaro, so he could go within the Top-10, but I think he’ll likely go either #16 to the St. Louis Rams or #17 to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

2013 NFL Draft Prospect, Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU

  By Draft Dawg | 02/21/2013 - 11:04 pm | , ,
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Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU    Born:  12/03/90 Suwanee, Georgia    Years in College: 3

TT:  206       Sacks:  5    TFL: 18.5  INT/FF 1/2

Overview:

Kevin Minter’s Junior Season at LSU catapulted him to the top of the middle/inside linebacking corps in the 2013 NFL Draft. Coming into 2012, the Junior linebacker had only registered 76 tackles and one sack. In 2012 alone, he accounted for 130 tackles and 4 sacks. He also played well on pass defense with 6 breakups.

Combine Results: 

  • 40 Yard Dash: 4.81 seconds
  • Bench Press: 25 reps
  • Vertical Jump: 33.0 inches
  • Broad Jump: 119 inches

Draft Rankings: CBS Sports – Overall/Position 34/1

Closest To: At 6-1 and 245 lbs, Kevin Minter reminds me of a Sam Mills type player. He has a nose for the ball and can disrupt the offensive backfield more than most middle linebackers, but, the jury is out on whether or not he will be an NFL caliber MLB or an inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. I would look for Minter to be drafted right behind Manti Te’o who is still my number one middle linebacker in this year’s draft. I am guessing that if Te’o is off the board he will be selected #23 by the Minnesota Vikings.

NFL Prospect, DeMarcus “Dee” Milliner, CB, Alabama

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 10:55 pm |
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DeMarcus “Dee” Milliner, CB, Alabama

Born:  9/14/1991 Millbrook, Alabama           Years in College: 3

INTs: 6                                                                 Fumble Recoveries: 1

Tackles:  136                                                      Sacks:   1.5     

Overview: Milliner’s size and ball-hawk mentality are ideal for today’s NFL scouts. Milliner shone in the giant talent “Tide”-pool that was the SEC this year, with a conference-high 22 passes defensed. Some scouts worry of Milliner’s limited starting experience. This past season was his first as a starter in every contest, but he did see action in all 13 games as a true freshman in 2010, and in all 13 games in his sophomore year. Given the Crimson Tide’s recent dominance in the cornerback position, it is understandable why Milliner did not step up to the full starting role until 2012.

Combine Results: 

  • 40 Yard Dash: 4.31 seconds
  • Vertical Jump: 36.0 inches
  • Broad Jump: 122.0 inches
  • 3 Cone Drill: 6.95 seconds
  • 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.32 seconds

Draft Rankings Overall/Position:  CBS Sports   5/1

Projected Team and Round: Although a sure first-rounder, where in the round Milliner will go remains a debate as April approaches. Some say he’ll be gone within the Top-5, even as early as number three to the Oakland Raiders. The 30th ranked Raider defense could certainly use a talent like Milliner’s in the backfield, although they’ll most likely be looking to replace free agent DE Matt Shaughnessy. I’d be shocked if he fell out of the Top-10, the Tennessee Titans need help in their backfield and if Milliner is still there by the time their #10 pick is on the clock, they’ll take him.

NFL Prospect, Barrett Jones, C, Alabama

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 10:17 pm |
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Barrett Jones, C, Alabama

Born: 5/25/1990 Memphis, Tennessee      Years in College: 4

Height: 6’5″          Weight: 311lbs

Overview: By far the most versatile lineman in this year’s draft class, Jones has started 3 BCS Championship Games at 3 different positions on the line. He’s most ready to be an NFL Center, where he played his final season at Alabama. He absolutely dominated Notre Dame Nose Tackle Louis Nix III in the 2013 championship. He may not be the flashiest of athletes with raw talent, but his mastery of the fundamentals and intelligence make him a safe pick.

Combine Results: Jones did not participate in the combine. He played in the BCS National Championship game with slightly torn foot ligaments, and was unable to fully heal them before the combine.

Draft Rankings Overall/Position: Walter Football 31/1

Projected Team and Round: Jones will likely be a late second or very early third round pick. He could go #60 to the Atlanta Falcons because they need to eventually replace Todd McClure, but their second round pick will likely be spent on an OG. Jones’ stock has certainly fallen as a result of his no-show at the combine. We’ll see if he can perform at his pro day.

NFL Prospect, Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 9:45 pm |
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Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

Born: 9/14/1991 Atlanta, Georgia         Years in College: 4

Height: 6’3″      Weight: 320lbs

Overview: Alabama’s frontmen dominated virtually every defensive line they faced in 2012. Warmack was a major part of the equation due to his footwork and strength. He moves surprisingly well downfield to take on blocking linebackers. Although shorter than the ideal, Warmack is the most NFL-ready guard prospect in the draft. His performance at the BCS Championship Game against Notre Dame proved this, helping the Crimson Tide offense roll over the hyped Irish defense. His rather un impressive 40 yard dash time is uncharacteristic, and could indicate a lack of preparation.

Combine Results: 

  • 40 Yard Dash: 5.49 seconds
  • Broad Jump: 110.0 inches

Draft Rankings Overall/Position: CBS Sports 3/1 Walter Football 9/1

Projected Team and Round: He didn’t have a particularly impressive showing at the combine, but scouts have seen Warmack where it really counts–on the field. Great tackles typically fall to the later first round, but Warmack’s experience–having played in 5 games as a true freshman and starting every game for the next 3 seasons–makes him special. He won’t fall past the Rams at #16, but don’t be surprised if the Arizona Cardinals take him #7. The Cardinals need a reliable guy up front, and Warmack is the epitome of reliable.

NFL Prospect, Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 8:55 pm |
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Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

Born: 11/6/1991 Arlington, Texas            Years in College: 3

Height: 6’6″             Weight: 310lbs

Overview: Joeckel has an incredible work ethic and experience, earning the starting LOT job as a true Freshman. He has near perfect fundamentals and is very disciplined. His athleticism has peaked the interests of scouts as the combination of a relatively lean, muscular, build and quick feet. Much of Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manzeil’s success can be attributed to Joeckel’s superb blocking.

Combine Results: 

  • 40 Yard Dash: 5.30 seconds
  • Bench Press: 27 reps
  • Vertical Jump: 28.5 inches
  • Broad Jump: 106.0 inches
  • 3 Cone Drill: 7.4 seconds
  • 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.68 seconds

Draft Rankings Overall/Position: Draftteck 1/1 CBS Sports 1/1

Projected Team and Round: With the combine still to come, it remains unclear what the Kansas City Chiefs are going to do with their number one pick. Joeckel is a sure Top-5 selection, but the question remains if KC will take him at number one. They need the help in pass protection, giving up 40 sacks in 2012. Their recent acquisition of former 49ers QB Alex Smith indicates that they’re focused on putting points on the board. I’d be surprised if they didn’t take Joeckel at this point. Smith will need a pass protector he can rely on f he’s going to resurrect the Chiefs’ offense. Unless KC wants to vastly improve their defensive line, I say Joeckel will be the first pick. If he falls, the Philadelphia Eagles will take him #4 overall.

NFL Draft Prospect Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/21/2013 - 4:31 am | , ,
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Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

Born: 1990 Geismar, Louisiana                  Years in College: 3

Rushing TD: 30              Rushing Yards: 2402

Receiving TD:  2         Receiving Yards: 338

Overview: Many are undecided on the top RB in this year’s draft, but despite suffering injuries in 2012, I think Lacy’s hard work and dedication makes him the top RB prospect. Giovanni Bernard, RB out of North Carolina has less experience, and certainly less strength. Lacy’s 220lb build gives him a great advantage for those teams in need of a thunderous back to pound the ball up the middle and break tackles. He shined brightest on the biggest stage with 140 rushing yards and a TD, earning him MVP honors. A true workhorse, he has the potential to be a solid starter in the NFL and could rise to be a Frank Gore-type.

Combine Results: After a slight tear in his hamstring, Lacy did not participate in combine drills.

Draft Rankings Overall/Position: CBS Sports 36/1 Drafttek 48/2

Projected Team and Round: With his absence at the combine,  Lacy will need an impressive pro-day performance to claim his rightful spot as the top RB in the draft. With a stellar performance, he could break into the Top 32 with the Denver Broncos at #28. Peyton Manning needs a reliable RB to hand the ball off to every once in a while, and Knowshon Moreno just cannot stay healthy. If he falls to the 2nd Round, I can’t imagine him going later than #46. The St. Louis Rams will need to replace Steven Jackson eventually, and drafting Lacy would allow the great Jackson to mentor him.

2013 NFL Scouting Combine Schedule

  By jenny_lemieux | 02/13/2013 - 9:05 pm |
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The 2013 NFL Scouting Combine will take place in Indianapolis, IN from February 23-26. Over 300 of the nation’s top prospects will undergo close inspection as they participate in drills designed specifically for their position and general events like the 40-yd dash, vertical jump, bench press, etc.

NFL Network will be broadcasting all four days of the event. Most eyes will be on Sunday when QBs report, including potential number one pick, Geno Smith.

Combine Workout Schedule:
• Saturday, Feb. 23: Tight Ends, Offensive Linemen, Special Teams
• Sunday, Feb. 24: Quarter Backs, Running Backs, Wide Receivers
• Monday, Feb. 25: Defensive Linemen, Linebackers
• Tuesday, Feb. 26: Defensive Backs

Defensive Top 5 Players per position for 2013 NFL Draft

  By Justin VanFulpen | 04/30/2012 - 8:54 pm | ,
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DE
1. Brandon Jenkins, Florida State
2. Devin Taylor, South Carolina
3. Alex Okafor, Texas
4. Dion Jordan, Oregon
5. Travis Long, Washington State

DT
1. Kawann Short, Purdue
2. Star Lotulelei, Utah
3. Jordan Hill, Penn State
4. Johnathan Jenkins, Georgia
5. Sylvester Williams, North Carolina

OLB
1. Sean Porter, Texas A&M
2. Chase Thomas, Stanford
3. Nico Johnson, Alabama
4. Zaviar Gooden, Missouri
5. Gerald Hodges, Penn State

ILB
1.Manti Te’o, Notre Dame
2. Shayne Skov, Stanford
3. Kevin Reddick, North Carolina
4. Arthur Brown, Kansas State
5. Patrick Larimore, UCLA

CB
1.Johnthan Banks, Mississippi State
2. Micah Hyde, Iowa
3. Desmond Trufant, Washington
4. Jordan Poyer, Oregon State
5. Johnny Adams, Michigan State

S
1. Ray Ray Armstrong, Miami Fl
2. Robert Lester, Alabama
3. Bacarri Rambo, Georgia
4. T.J. McDonald, USC
5. Prentiss Waggner, Tennessee

VanFulpen’s Mock Draft 3.0

  By Justin VanFulpen | 04/25/2012 - 5:14 pm | ,
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1. Indianapolis Colts – Andrew Luck QB, Stanford
2. Washington Redskins – Robert Griffin III QB, Baylor
3. Minnesota Vikings – Matt Kalil OT, USC
4. Cleveland Browns – Trent Richardson RB, Alabama
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Morris Claiborne CB, LSU
6. St. Louis Rams – Justin Blackmon WR, Oklahoma State
7. Jacksonville Jaguars – Melvin Ingram DE, South Carolina
8. Miami Dolphins – Ryan Tannehill QB, Texas A&M
9. Carolina Panthers – Fletcher Cox DT, Mississippi State
10. Buffalo Bills – Riley Reiff OT, Iowa

(more…)

VanFulpen’s Top 100 Players for 2012 NFL Draft

  By Justin VanFulpen | 04/25/2012 - 5:13 pm | ,
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1. QB Andrew Luck-Stanford
2. QB Robert Griffin III-Baylor
3. RB Trent Richardson-Alabama
4. CB Morris Claiborne-LSU
5. WR Justin Blackmon-Oklahoma State
6. OT Matt Kalil-USC
7. DT Fletcher Cox-Mississippi State
8. DE Quinton Coples-UNC
9. DT Michael Brockers-LSU
10. WR Michael Floyd-Notre Dame
11. ILB Luke Kuechly-Boston College
12. DT Dontari Poe-Memphis
13. DE/OLB Melvin Ingram-South Carolina
14. S Mark Barron-Alabama
15. OT Riley Reiff-Iowa

(more…)