2010 NFL Draft Preview: News and Notes on Junior Prospects

News, notes, and opinions about some of the top junior prospects who could end up declaring for the 2010 NFL Draft:

It’s no secret that the top quarterback prospects in next year’s draft will likely end up coming from the junior class.

With the possibility of Sam Bradford, Jake Locker, and Jimmy Clausen all coming out after the season, the talent in the 2010 quarterback group should improve considerably.

However, one guy to keep an eye on throughout the junior decision-making process is Florida State’s Christian Ponder.

Ponder was one of the few bright spots for the Seminoles this season and has improved his play significantly since last year. He’s a smart kid who showcases good accuracy and timing in the pass game and understands how to audible his team out of a play and take snaps from under center.

Ponder is coming off a separated shoulder injury that forced him to miss the last three regular season games, and there were reports that he would not enter the draft. But that was before the retirement of Florida State head coach Bobby Bowden, and the fact that Ponder already has his degree might make him give second thought to the decision.

 

One junior position group that could really see the floodgates open in the coming weeks is wide receiver, where names like Dez Bryant, Damian Williams, Demaryius Thomas, Arrelious Benn, and Dezmon Briscoe could all very quickly leap toward the head of the class.

However, one guy I would strongly discourage from coming out early is LSU’s Terrance Toliver, a big 6’4″, 206-pound wideout who displays some natural athleticism for his size. However, when watching and comparing him to fellow LSU wideout Brandon LaFell, it’s simply no contest.

Toliver lacks any kind of lateral quickness or wiggle off the line and really struggles to get into routes vs. press coverage. Plus, he lacks burst out of his breaks and gets too leggy when trying to break down and change directions.

He’s a big kid with some natural hand-eye coordination when asked to go up and pluck the football. But from the standpoint of creating separation and beating press coverage in the NFL, he isn’t anywhere close to being ready.

 

Right now, Idaho senior guard Mike Iupati looks like the nation’s top eligible interior offensive line prospect. However, Florida juniors Mike and Maurkice Pouncey could both end up having something to say about that.

The Pouncey twins possess a rare combination of size, power, and fluidity and do a great job not only opening up run lanes inside but also sliding their feet and mirroring laterally in space.

Center Maurkice Pouncey grades out slightly better than guard Mike at this point, but both look like they could carve out starting roles early in their NFL careers.

 

Another talented class that will be fun to sort through on draft day is the junior defensive end group. With Derrick Morgan, Carlos Dunlap, Everson Griffen, Greg Romeus, Cameron Heyward, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Adrian Clayborn all at least entertaining the idea of declaring early, we could see one of the deepest defensive end classes in years.

Plus, this is a big defensive end group that possesses an ability to mature into three-down players at the next level. Also, Heyward and Dunlap have the versatility to play as either 4-3 defensive tackles or five-technique defensive ends in the NFL.

Ultimately, this year’s DE group has the makings of one of the top classes in the draft.

One team that could really be picked bare by the rush of early junior entries is the North Carolina Tar Heels, who feature a defense loaded with young, intriguing talent. The group of possible early departures includes DT Marvin Austin, OLB Bruce Carter, ILB Quan Sturdivant, FS Deunta Williams, CB Kendric Burney, and possibly redshirt DT Tydreke Powell.

The Tar Heels still have one of the nation’s top sophomore defensive ends returning in Robert Quinn, but if head coach Butch Davis’ name continues to emerge as a potential suitor at Notre Dame, it will be interesting to see how many North Carolina underclassmen decide they’ve had enough and take their game to the next level.

 

Typically it’s only Tennessee safety Eric Berry you hear as the guy who could end up leapfrogging USC’s Taylor Mays as the draft’s top safety prospect. However, two other juniors worth keeping an eye on are LSU’s Chad Jones and Georgia Tech’s Morgan Burnett.

Both are big, well-built safety prospects who exhibit impressive range for their size and are very instinctive—and if there’s one major knock on Mays, it’s his lack of ideal instincts and inability to read and react quickly to plays in the pass game.

Although I can’t see both Jones and Burnett being selected ahead of Mays, it wouldn’t surprise me to see them have better overall NFL careers.

 

As junior tight ends such as Aaron Hernandez and Weslye Saunders continue to dazzle, one name that seems to have been forgotten is Arizona’s Rob Gronkowski.

Gronkowski has been out all season with a back injury after undergoing season-ending surgery in September. It’s still uncertain if Gronkowski will decide to return to Arizona in 2010 or elect to take his game to the pros.

It looks like the tight end class is shaping up to be a good one, but if Gronkowski can prove he’s 100 percent healthy in postseason workouts, he definitely has the talent to become the top tight end off the board in April, even over fellow injured tight prospect Jermaine Gresham.

 

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News, notes on draft prospects

 

News, notes and opinions about some of the top prospects in the 2010 NFL draft class:

In what’s considered an uninspiring senior quarterback class, one guy who has really caught fire in recent weeks is Sean Canfield of Oregon State. Canfield is completing more than 70 percent of his passes and showcases an ability to be accurate with the football and anticipate routes on all levels of the field.

He has also seen his share of adversity over the years, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up having the most productive NFL career of all the senior quarterback prospects.

 

Will an NFL Team Devise an Unconventional Offense for Tim Tebow at the Next Level?

One quarterback who might have something to say about that is Florida’s Tim Tebow.

Tebow hasn’t had the type of senior season many expected and has not taken the steps needed to prove he has what it takes to be a traditional dropback-type quarterback in the NFL.

But, that’s not to say he can’t be a successful starting-caliber QB. Look at what the Titans have done in recent weeks with Vince Young, who’s not a traditional dropback passer and is not the type of quarterback most NFL teams covet.

If a team is open to using an unconventional offense for Tebow, allowing him to work from the spread, get him outside the pocket and run some power inside, there’s really no reason he can’t be a capable NFL quarterback. The idea of every team having a traditional dropback, strong-armed Carson Palmer-type quarterback is unreasonable because there’s a limited number of guys who can do that.

However, if a team is willing to look outside the box and be creative with its play-calling, I think Tebow could end up having a successful career leading an NFL offense.

The senior running back class is one group that could be significantly enhanced by an influx of early junior entries. With the possibility of junior running backs Jonathan Dwyer, Jahvid Best, Ryan Mathews, Noel Devine, Joe McKnight, and DeMarco Murray all entering the draft, we could very quickly see the likes of senior RBs Toby Gerhart, Montario Hardesty, and Anthony Dixon all fall down draft boards.

Keep an eye on Gerhart, who has a potential promising baseball career ahead of him and could opt for the diamond if his draft stock falls too far.

 

Alabama DT Terrence Cody is a Big—and Big-Time—NFL Prospect.

It’s a good year to be an NFL team in need of talent at the defensive tackle position as the 2010 senior crop is one of the best to come along in years.

Nebraska’s Ndamukong Suh leads this year’s talented class, while Penn State’s Jared Odrick, Alabama’s Terrence Cody, and Syracuse’s Arthur Jones all look like big-time prospects in their own right. Plus, guys like Tennessee’s Dan Williams, Texas’ Lamarr Houston, and Purdue’s Mike Neal all add depth to the group as prospects who could eventually mature into starting-caliber linemen.

The same can’t be said for the senior cornerback class, where, in my opinion, there’s really not much separating the top seniors from some of the mid-level guys like Alabama’s Javier Arenas and Virginia Tech’s Stephan Virgil.

However, two guys I really like are Oregon’s Walter Thurmond and Indiana-Pa.’s Akwasi Owusu-Ansah. Both look like prospects who will end up falling into that mid-round range but could have better careers and would be far better values then some of the “top-rated” senior corners (Patrick Robinson, Syd’Quan Thompson) in this years class.

One guy who doesn’t get the attention he deserves from this year’s safety class is Indiana’s Nick Polk, a physically strapping kid at 5’11”, 220 who can run, change directions and create collisions in the run game. He’s one of my favorite senior safeties and, in my opinion, grades out higher than some of the other top-tier defensive backs such as Kam Chancellor, Darrell Stuck,ey and Kurt Coleman in terms of ability at the next level.

LSU’s Harry Coleman Was Moved to Linebacker This Season.

If LSU’s Harry Coleman is such a talented potential strong-safety prospect, why was he moved to linebacker this season?  Sure, you can say he’s a team player and that the LSU coaching staff needed to get its best athletes on the field, but if Coleman really was such a big-time NFL prospect at the position, you can bet he would still be playing safety.

Could you imagine Pete Carroll moving Taylor Mays to outside linebacker as a senior in order to get some talented underclassman on the field? The point is that Coleman looks like a core special teams guy who could end up finding a role as a nickel linebacker at the next level, but he’s not a potential starting strong safety. And if you want proof, just look at his game tape from last season.

Tell me, what am I missing in North Carolina State DE Willie Young, who’s considered in some scouting/media circles as a potential first-round pick?

Young has eight sacks, six of which came against the likes of Murray State, Gardner-Webb, and Wake Forest. He has recorded only one sack over his last six games and doesn’t exhibit the type of strength or body control to make me think he can beat blocks at the next level. He’s an intriguing athlete for his size and possesses good length, but Young has a lot of maturing to do before he can be considered a legitimate NFL pass rusher.

Every time I watch Notre Dame right tackle Sam Young and LSU left tackle Ciron Black, my opinion of them drops. Both guys have struggled tremendously at times this season, yet both are still considered top-10 offensive tackles in most media circles.  The reason: They’ve started the past four seasons at big-time programs and are assumed by most media outlets to be good football players.

But, when you flip on the tape on each of them, you see a shell of the player you’re expecting to evaluate. At best, both prospects look like backup type linemen in the NFL.

 

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QB class of ’07 endures tough times

 

It’s been a brutal week for the 2007 quarterback draft class.

JaMarcus Russell, the first overall pick that year, has been benched in favor of Bruce Gradkowski in Oakland. Third round pick Trent Edwards’ career in Buffalo looks to becoming to an unproductive end. And, first-rounder Brady Quinn continues to struggle in Cleveland. Not exactly what their franchises had in mind when they drafted those players.

Today, let’s take a look at the ‘07 quarterback class and see which QBs have made the most of their time in the NFL and which have not.

 

The Good

Kevin Kolb: Philadelphia Eagles, Second Round, 36th Overall

AP Kevin Kolb stepped in for Donovan McNabb this year and displayed his second-round ability.

Kolb’s career got off to a rocky start as many in Philadelphia questioned his ability to mature into a capable starting quarterback after brief appearances in 2008. But after starter Donovan McNabb went down earlier this season, Kolb stepped in and performed brilliantly in two starts.

He threw for a combined 718 yards to go along with four touchdown passes and a gaudy 96.9 quarterback rating.

Sure, he was only 1-1, but he looked efficient enough to warrant his second-round draft selection and may end up being the only quarterback from the ‘07 draft class starting in the NFL in the coming years.

 

Tyler Thigpen: Minnesota Vikings, Seventh Round, 217th Overall

I know I might be grasping at straws with this one, but when you look over the rest of the 2007 quarterback class, there really isn’t much else to work with.

Thigpen is currently a backup in Miami, and I don’t see him taking over the starting job any time soon playing behind Chad Henne. However, Thigpen has proved in the past that he’s capable of leading an NFL offense and has the skill set to eventually fight for a starting role elsewhere.

In 2008, he started 11 games for the Kansas City Chiefs, completing 54.8 percent of his passes and throwing for an average of 213 yards per start. He also tossed 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, and if anything, he looks like one of the best quarterback values to come out of the 2007 class.

 

The Bad

John Beck: Miami Dolphins, Second Round, 40th Overall

AP Former Dolphin John Beck is now with the Ravens.

Beck was the fourth quarterback chosen in the draft and started four games as a rookie. His performances, however, were abysmal. He averaged 106 yards through the air and threw no touchdown passes and three interceptions as a starter. He was quickly relegated to the bench in 2008, working as the team’s third-string quarterback, and was eventually released in 2009.

He signed with the Baltimore Ravens in May, reuniting with offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, who served as the Dolphins’ head coach in 2007, and is currently third on the Ravens’ depth chart.

 

Trent Edwards: Buffalo Bills, Third Round, 92nd Overall

Trent Edwards at least got off to a good start in Buffalo.

As a rookie, Edwards played in 10 games, leading the Bills to a 5-5 record and looking like a guy who had the makings of a potential franchise quarterback. But after a 5-1 start in 2008, Edwards finished the year 2-6, throwing eight interceptions over that span compared to six touchdowns.

Now, because of his inability to get the ball down the field and into the hands of play-making wideouts Lee Evans and Terrell Owens, Edwards has been benched in favor of backup Ryan Fitzpatrick. Edwards is 2-5 as the Bills’ starting quarterback this season and again has more interceptions (seven) than touchdown passes (six).

In his defense, this situation isn’t entirely his fault, and some blame should fall on the shoulders of the Bills’ scouting department for thinking a weaker-armed quarterback could be successful throwing the football through the cold and wind of Buffalo in December. If given an opportunity elsewhere—preferably in a warmer climate—I think Edwards has the talent to produce as a team’s starting quarterback, but it looks like he’s worn out his welcome in Buffalo.

 

 

The Ugly

Brady Quinn: Cleveland Browns, First Round, 22nd Overall

AP  Brady Quinn does not look like the answer in Cleveland.

The Brady Quinn experiment looks to be all but over as the former Notre Dame signal caller hasn’t shown the ability to be consistently accurate with the football or make plays down the field in the pass game.

Quinn has a career completion percentage of only 52.2 percent and has thrown more than twice as many interceptions (seven) as touchdown passes (three) during his first three seasons in Cleveland. Quinn has started only seven games in his short tenure as a Brown, but during that time, he has averaged only 145 passing yards per game and has thrown for over 200 yards only twice.

At this stage, Quinn doesn’t look capable of throwing the ball down the field and manufacturing big plays in the pass game, and will likely force the Browns to select another quarterback in the first round of next year’s draft.

 

Words Can’t Even Explain

JaMarcus Russell: Oakland Raiders, First round, First Overall

It looks as though former Raiders coach Lane Kiffin knew exactly what he was doing bringing Russell along slowly and trying to prepare the rookie quarterback for the NFL. And, to be honest, after a 2008 season that concluded with wins against Houston and Tampa Bay, there looked to be some hope that Russell might develop into the franchise QB everyone imagined.

But, things have gone terribly wrong since then, as Russell has not only failed to improve on his performances from last season, he looks as though he’s taken steps backward.

The 6’6″, 260-pounder is completing just 46.8 percent of his passes and has averaged a mere 118 yards per game. Russell looks slow to decipher information, lacks awareness in the pocket and struggles tremendously with his accuracy.

Worse, the Raiders have more than $60 million wrapped up in a player now heading to the bench in favor of journeyman Bruce Gradkowski. Russell looks nowhere near ready from a maturity standpoint to lead an NFL offense, and it will be interesting to see how patient the Raiders front office is, waiting on its investment to develop, while the team keeps losing.

 

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The NFP Super 30: A Look at the Top Prospects for the 2010 NFL Draft

In the third installment of the NFP’s Super 30, we breakdown and rank the nation’s top draft-eligible prospects through the first seven weeks of the college football season.

1. QB Jake Locker, Washington (6’3″, 226)
The nation’s top quarterback prospect.

2. DT Gerald McCoy, Oklahoma (6’4″, 298)
Has been downright dominant at times and consistently controls the line of scrimmage.

AP—Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh

3. DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska (6’4″, 302)
Makes as many plays as any defensive lineman in the country; always seems to be around the football.

4. S Eric Berry, Tennessee (5’11”, 203)
One of the most instinctive safeties to come along in years. Looks like an instant impact player in the NFL.

5. QB Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame (6’3″, 223)
Made the necessary second-half adjustments last week vs. USC and looked very impressive in the fourth quarter, when it matted most.

6. ILB Rolando McClain, Alabama (6’4″, 256)
Possesses an impressive athletic skill set for his size and has the ability to play in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme.

7. WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State (6’2″, 220)
Although his suspension is still looming, Bryant is the nation’s most dynamic threat at receiver.

 

AP—Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant

8. S Taylor Mays, USC (6’3″, 235)
It isn’t often you find a safety who generates as much power on contact as Mays.

9. DT Terrence Cody, Alabama (6’5″, 365)
All the guy does is make everyone around him better. I can’t imagine him lasting too long on draft day.

10. OT Bryan Bulaga, Iowa (6’6″, 312)
He still hasn’t quite regained his form from a year ago, but I expect to see Bulaga really improve his play in the coming weeks.

11. DE Carlos Dunlap, Florida (6’6″, 290)
As physically gifted as it gets, but he still seems to disappear from games far too often given his skill set.

12. WR Mike Williams, Syracuse (6’2″, 204)
An impressive size/speed athlete who’s been extremely productive this season and forces defense to roll coverage his way.

13. RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech (5’11”, 235)
Is averaging 6.2 yards per carry in his past four games and looks like a guy capable of carrying the load at the next level.

 

AP—Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett

14. QB Ryan Mallett, Arkansas (6’7″, 238)
He still has a way to go, but his physical skill set instantly makes him one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects.

15. RB Jahvid Best, California (5’10”, 195)
An elite big-play threat who can hurt you in both the run and pass game.

16. DT Arthur Jones, Syracuse (6’3″, 295)
A powerful interior presence who uses his hands well to shed blocks and always seems to make plays on the ball.

17. C Maurkice Pouncey, Florida (6’5″, 318)
Exhibits an impressive combination of size, power, and fluidity inside; looks like a guy who can step in and become an impact center from day one.

18. DT Marvin Austin, North Carolina (6’3″, 305)
His improved instincts and overall technique have allowed him to take his game to another level.

19. DT Phil Taylor, Baylor (6’4″, 355)
A massive interior lineman who has the ability to anchor a defense at the next level.

20. CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama (5’11”, 192)
Showcases impressive fluidity and balance in and out of his breaks and always seems to be in position to make a play on the ball.

 

AP—USC DE Everson Griffen

21. DE Everson Griffen, USC (6’3″, 278)
A physicality gifted athlete who plays with natural leverage and displays impressive footwork and body control off the snap.

22. DE Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech (6’4″, 272)
Possesses the tools to get after the quarterback in a variety of ways off the edge.

23. RB C.J. Spiller, Clemson (5’11”, 195)
A real X-factor who has an ability to create big plays in all facets of the game.

24. DE Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida (6’6″, 265)
He’s still raw but possesses a wingspan that goes on for days and might have more upside than any prospect in next year’s draft.

25. OT Anthony Davis, Rutgers (6’6″, 325)
Showcases the size, power and, fluidity to develop into a starting-caliber left tackle at the next level.

 

AP—Clemson OLB/DE Ricky Sapp

26. OLB/DE Ricky Sapp, Clemson (6’4″, 248)
The guy makes a living behind the line of scrimmage and has the ability to consistently shed blocks and make plays on the football.

27. DE Jason Worilds, Virginia Tech (6’2″, 252)
Exhibits an impressive first step, and his improved power and pad level have enhanced his ability to get after the passer.

28. QB Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (6’4″, 223)
The biggest question about Bradford entering the year was, can he stay healthy behind an inexperienced offensive line? So far, the answer is no.

29. OLB Eric Norwood, South Carolina (6’0″, 252)
He isn’t the tallest of linebackers, but the guy is a force when asked to make plays off the edge.

30. OT Charles Brown, USC (6-5, 292)
He not only has an ability to consistently mirror in pass protection, he’s also very natural when asked to pull and get out in space. Looks like the nation’s top senior offensive tackle.

Super 30 No More

OT Russell Okung, Oklahoma State (6’5″, 302)
A physically gifted lineman, but he needs to add more strength to his base. Gets bullied on contact too easily.

 

AP—Illinois WR Arrelious Benn

WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois (6’2″, 220)
Has not been the consistent force we expected to see game in and game out.

DE Cameron Heyward, Ohio State (6’6″, 287)
I love his physical skill set and upside, but he disappears from games far too often.

RB Noel Devine, West Virginia (5’8″, 176)
Lacks size, but he’ll still find a way to contribute in a big way to an NFL offense.

DT Allen Bailey, Miami (6’4″, 288)
All the tools are there, but he’s simply too inconsistent in his play at this time.

Just Missed the Cut

 

AP—Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham

CB Joe Haden, Florida (5’11”, 190)
DE Greg Hardy, Ole Miss (6’4″, 265)
OLB Von Miller, Texas A&M (6’2″, 240)
RB Ryan Mathews, Fresno State (5’11”, 220)
OG Mike Pouncey, Florida (6’5″, 320)
ILB Josh Bynes, Auburn (6’2″, 239)
OLB Bruce Carter, North Carolina (6’3″, 225)
OLB/DE Jerry Hughes, TCU (6’2″, 257)
ILB Brandon Spikes, Florida (6’3″, 256)
FS Morgan Burnett, Georgia Tech (6’1″, 210)
TE Ed Dickson, Oregon (6’4″, 243)
TE Anthony McCoy, USC (6’5″, 252)
TE Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma (6’6″, 258)
OLB Rennie Curran, Georgia (5’11”, 225)

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Redskins Pick Jeremy Jarmon Could Have Big Impact In 2009

 

The Washington Redskins used their third round pick in the 2009 supplemental draft to select Kentucky DE Jeremy Jarmon. 

On the surface, many will assume it was another unnecessary attempt by owner Dan Snyder to improve his beloved Redskins. But after delving deeper into the possible impact Jarmon could have on the Washington defense—not just in 2009 but beyond—the pick makes a lot of sense.

Jarmon, considered one of the top defensive end prospects entering this season, was expected to be in the mix as a likely top-75 selection in the 2010 NFL Draft. However, after failing a drug test in May, the NCAA ruled him ineligible to compete.

He was the only player picked in today’s supplemental draft and will cost the Redskins a third-round pick in next year’s draft.

The addition of Jarmon instantly improves the Redskins’ pass rush and gives them another gifted athlete they can use on third downs. Jarmon displays a good burst out of his stance and possesses the closing speed to threaten the edge. He also has impressive coordination around the corner and is consistently able to maintain his balance when flattening down past offensive linemen.

He looks natural changing directions and has the lateral mobility to sidestep blocks and quickly attack upfield.

However, the knock on Jarmon is his lack of physicality and power at the point of attack. For a guy with his size (6’3″, 278 pounds), you would expect him to be more of a factor verrus the run game, but he’s consistently driven away from the play and washed out on contact.

Plus, his motor doesn’t always seem to be running on full and he has a tendency to loaf when he isn’t involved in the play.

The Redskins have made it a point this offseason to improve their defensive front four, first with the signing of DT Albert Haynesworth, then with the first-round selection of DE Brian Orakpo. But now that Orakpo is currently penciled in as the starter at strong-side linebacker, it was obvious the Redskins were in need of another pass rusher to complement DE Andre Carter.

Veteran linemen Phillip Daniels and Renaldo Wynn are currently scheduled to man the left defensive end spot opposite Carter. However, both linemen are over the age of 33, and neither possesses the kind of burst needed to be a factor against the passing game.

Bringing in like a guy Jarmon not only enhances the Redskins’ capabilities of getting after the passer, it also gives both Daniels and Wynn the chance to come off the field on third downs and stay fresher throughout the game.

With defensive tackles Cornelius Griffin and Haynesworth likely to command considerable attention inside, defensive coordinator Greg Blache has to be licking his chops thinking of all the mismatches he can create versus the pass game.

The Redskins now have three gifted athletes (Carter, Orakpo, and Jarmon) who can be used in a variety of ways to create pressure on the outside. Plus, with Jarmon now in the fold, the option of keeping Orakpo at SLB on third down and using him as a hybrid pass rusher further enhances the versatility the ‘Skins would have on defense.

One question that still remains: Will Jarmon be in the kind of physical shape needed to make an impact for the Redskins in 2009?

If the answer is yes, it looks as though they’ve found themselves another potential pass rusher with the upside to develop into an every-down lineman at the next level.

If the answer is no, the Skins will simply give Jarmon the time needed to develop and look at him more as a potential factor for in 2010.

Either way, the Redskins got themselves a talented defensive end prospect who certainly has the ability to play at the next level and make an impact on defense.

Be sure to check out the rest of my breakdowns at Nationalfootballpost.com.

 

Washington Redskins Land Jarmon

 

Kentucky DE Jeremy Jarmon was selected by the Washington Redskins in the third round of the 2009 Supplemental Draft, according to Pro Football Weekly.

The Redskins will now be forced to forfeit that pick in the 2010 NFL draft.

APJeremy Jarmon

Jarmon is a former All-SEC defensive lineman who was expected to be in the mix as a potential first day prospect in the 2010 NFL draft. However, after testing positive for a banned substance, the NCAA ruled him ineligible for the 2009 season.

Representatives from 18 teams showed up to watch Jarmon at his pro day last Thursday and were not disappointed.

He ran his 40 yard dash in a time of 4.78 seconds, posted 19 reps on the bench and hit 31-inches on his vertical jump. More importantly, he was said to work out well during position drills and impressed teams during his interviews.

2007 Stats: 62 Total Tackles 13.5 Tackles for Loss 9.0 Sacks
2008 Stats: 38 Total Tackles 10 Tackles for Loss 4.5 Sacks

Be sure to check out the Nationalfootballpost.com for all the breaking news. 

 

Supplemental Draft Preview: Possible Destinations for Eight NFL Prospects

In day two of the National Football Post’s supplemental draft preview, we take a look at eligible prospects and break down some possible landing spots for each, either through the draft or signing as a free agent.

 

Jeremy Jarmon: DE, Kentucky (6-3, 278)

Washington Redskins

Not only did the Redskins have three staff members on hand to watch Jarmon’s workout last week, but executive VP of football operations Vinny Cerrato also made the trip to take in the action. The ‘Skins are still snooping around for a potential pass rushing threat opposite DE Andre Carter, and with rookie Brian Orakpo penciled in as the likely starter at SLB, Jarmon makes a lot of sense.

 

Philadelphia Eagles

Jarmon traveled to Philadelphia for a meeting and physical exam last Wednesday, and there looks to be at least some interest on the Eagles’ part. Head coach Andy Reid has never been shy about collecting talented defensive linemen on his roster, and Jarmon looks like a good fit for the defense. However, if there’s one reason to think Philadelphia will pass on Jarmon, it’s the depth and talent they already have at the DE position.

 

Denver Broncos

The Broncos need to use every resource available right now to add pieces to their defensive front seven. Jarmon has some similarities to Denver’s 2009 first-round pick, Robert Ayers, and displays the skill set to develop as a pass rushing outside linebacker at the next level. Plus, he would certainly give the Broncos’ defense a bit more flexibility and talent up front.

 

Deon Murphy: WR, Kansas State (5-10, 176)

St. Louis Rams

What available receiver aren’t the Rams potentially in the market for right now? They currently have wideouts Keenan Burton and Donnie Avery scheduled to start Week 1, and there isn’t that much depth behind them. Murphy’s athletic abilities would transition nicely to the fast turf in St. Louis, and he could at least add some depth to the Rams’ receiving corps and help out on special teams.

 

Oakland Raiders

The Raiders selected two young, explosive receivers in the 2009 draft and may be content to develop the talent they already have. However, if you look over the depth chart, there really isn’t all that much in the cupboard. Murphy is an explosive deep threat who has been timed in the high 4.3 range and could intrigue owner Al Davis as a late-round pick.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers not only lost their main vertical threat, WR Nate Washington, this past offseason, they also finished tied for last in the NFL in punt return average. Murphy could fill a role as a situational deep threat and possesses the talent to improve the team’s punt return game as well. He’s not a bad play for the defending Super Bowl champs as a late-round pickup.

 

McKinner Dixon: DE, Texas Tech (6-3, 252)

Dallas Cowboys

Dixon was born and raised in Texas and displays the type of natural pass rush ability to be a good fit in the Dallas 3-4 defense. The Cowboys have always shown a willingness to take a chance on players with character concerns, and the late-round investment needed to grab Dixon simply might be too good to pass up. You can bet the Dallas front office called in former Texas Tech DE Brandon Williams, their fourth-round pick this year, to ask about Dixon.

 

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs proved in the 2009 draft that they aren’t afraid to overlook some character flaws if the talent deems itself worthy. Dixon certainly has the talent and could be an intriguing fit as a DE/OLB option in some of the hybrid looks the Chiefs plan to implement this season. Look for Dixon to be a potential option for Kansas City, but only as a free agent if he goes undrafted on Thursday.

 

Demetrice Morley: DB, Tennessee (6-2, 195)

Oakland Raiders

Oakland has consistently been willing to overlook character flaws if the talent in there, which is definitely the case in Morley. He’s a big, physical safety who runs very well for his size and certainly has the triangle numbers to intrigue the Raiders’ front office.

 

Houston Texans

There really isn’t much to get excited about concerning the Texans’ overall talent or depth at safety, and Morley might be an intriguing addition right before training camp. He won’t be expected to play much of a role this year, but he possesses the overall physical skill set to fight for playing time down the line if he can keep himself out of trouble.

 

Here are some other players who will draw interest in the supplemental draft…

 

Joe McMahon: OL, Central Michigan (6-4, 295)

The scouting department in New England has shown an ability to think outside the box concerning the offensive line and has brought in prospects like former collegiate wrestler Stephen Neal. So it might make some sense that the Patriots would be interested in McMahon, a former Golden Gloves boxing champion in Chicago. He’s a good athlete and has the versatility to play all over the offensive line, another intriguing trait in New England.

 

Corey Surrency: WR, Florida State (6-5, 220)

The New York Giants could be a decent fit here, as the team is still looking for a receiver to take the spot of Plaxico Burress in the red zone. Surrency’s frame and skill set are very similar to current Giants rookie wideout Ramses Barden, and he could at least create some competition there.

 

Blake Boyd: OLB, Western Kentucky (6-3, 248)

Boyd is a hard-working linebacker with a nice-sized frame and looks like an ideal fit in a 3-4 defense. The Green Bay Packers in particular could be a likely destination for Boyd as a developmental player after the draft.

 

Torris Magee: WR, Southern Miss (6-2, 214)

Magee is strictly a possession-type receiver who’s at his best working the middle of the field and using his big frame to make plays on the ball. Some possible destinations include Minnesota, Seattle and Tampa Bay.

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Be sure to check out the rest of my breakdowns at NationalFootballPost.com.

Supplemental Draft Preview: Possible Destinations for Eight NFL Prospects

In day two of the National Football Post’s supplemental draft preview, we take a look at eligible prospects and break down some possible landing spots for each, either through the draft or signing as a free agent.

 

Jeremy Jarmon: DE, Kentucky (6-3, 278)

Washington Redskins

Not only did the Redskins have three staff members on hand to watch Jarmon’s workout last week, but executive VP of football operations Vinny Cerrato also made the trip to take in the action. The ‘Skins are still snooping around for a potential pass rushing threat opposite DE Andre Carter, and with rookie Brian Orakpo penciled in as the likely starter at SLB, Jarmon makes a lot of sense.

 

Philadelphia Eagles

Jarmon traveled to Philadelphia for a meeting and physical exam last Wednesday, and there looks to be at least some interest on the Eagles’ part. Head coach Andy Reid has never been shy about collecting talented defensive linemen on his roster, and Jarmon looks like a good fit for the defense. However, if there’s one reason to think Philadelphia will pass on Jarmon, it’s the depth and talent they already have at the DE position.

 

Denver Broncos

The Broncos need to use every resource available right now to add pieces to their defensive front seven. Jarmon has some similarities to Denver’s 2009 first-round pick, Robert Ayers, and displays the skill set to develop as a pass rushing outside linebacker at the next level. Plus, he would certainly give the Broncos’ defense a bit more flexibility and talent up front.

 

Deon Murphy: WR, Kansas State (5-10, 176)

St. Louis Rams

What available receiver aren’t the Rams potentially in the market for right now? They currently have wideouts Keenan Burton and Donnie Avery scheduled to start Week 1, and there isn’t that much depth behind them. Murphy’s athletic abilities would transition nicely to the fast turf in St. Louis, and he could at least add some depth to the Rams’ receiving corps and help out on special teams.

 

Oakland Raiders

The Raiders selected two young, explosive receivers in the 2009 draft and may be content to develop the talent they already have. However, if you look over the depth chart, there really isn’t all that much in the cupboard. Murphy is an explosive deep threat who has been timed in the high 4.3 range and could intrigue owner Al Davis as a late-round pick.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers not only lost their main vertical threat, WR Nate Washington, this past offseason, they also finished tied for last in the NFL in punt return average. Murphy could fill a role as a situational deep threat and possesses the talent to improve the team’s punt return game as well. He’s not a bad play for the defending Super Bowl champs as a late-round pickup.

 

McKinner Dixon: DE, Texas Tech (6-3, 252)

Dallas Cowboys

Dixon was born and raised in Texas and displays the type of natural pass rush ability to be a good fit in the Dallas 3-4 defense. The Cowboys have always shown a willingness to take a chance on players with character concerns, and the late-round investment needed to grab Dixon simply might be too good to pass up. You can bet the Dallas front office called in former Texas Tech DE Brandon Williams, their fourth-round pick this year, to ask about Dixon.

 

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs proved in the 2009 draft that they aren’t afraid to overlook some character flaws if the talent deems itself worthy. Dixon certainly has the talent and could be an intriguing fit as a DE/OLB option in some of the hybrid looks the Chiefs plan to implement this season. Look for Dixon to be a potential option for Kansas City, but only as a free agent if he goes undrafted on Thursday.

 

Demetrice Morley: DB, Tennessee (6-2, 195)

Oakland Raiders

Oakland has consistently been willing to overlook character flaws if the talent in there, which is definitely the case in Morley. He’s a big, physical safety who runs very well for his size and certainly has the triangle numbers to intrigue the Raiders’ front office.

 

Houston Texans

There really isn’t much to get excited about concerning the Texans’ overall talent or depth at safety, and Morley might be an intriguing addition right before training camp. He won’t be expected to play much of a role this year, but he possesses the overall physical skill set to fight for playing time down the line if he can keep himself out of trouble.

 

Here are some other players who will draw interest in the supplemental draft…

 

Joe McMahon: OL, Central Michigan (6-4, 295)

The scouting department in New England has shown an ability to think outside the box concerning the offensive line and has brought in prospects like former collegiate wrestler Stephen Neal. So it might make some sense that the Patriots would be interested in McMahon, a former Golden Gloves boxing champion in Chicago. He’s a good athlete and has the versatility to play all over the offensive line, another intriguing trait in New England.

 

Corey Surrency: WR, Florida State (6-5, 220)

The New York Giants could be a decent fit here, as the team is still looking for a receiver to take the spot of Plaxico Burress in the red zone. Surrency’s frame and skill set are very similar to current Giants rookie wideout Ramses Barden, and he could at least create some competition there.

 

Blake Boyd: OLB, Western Kentucky (6-3, 248)

Boyd is a hard-working linebacker with a nice-sized frame and looks like an ideal fit in a 3-4 defense. The Green Bay Packers in particular could be a likely destination for Boyd as a developmental player after the draft.

 

Torris Magee: WR, Southern Miss (6-2, 214)

Magee is strictly a possession-type receiver who’s at his best working the middle of the field and using his big frame to make plays on the ball. Some possible destinations include Minnesota, Seattle and Tampa Bay.

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Be sure to check out the rest of my breakdowns at NationalFootballPost.com.

Supplemental Draft Preview: Part 1

The NFL’s supplemental draft is scheduled for Thursday and gives draft-eligible college prospects a final chance to enter the league. The National Football Post will break down every aspect of the supplemental draft this week, starting today with our prospect previews.

Jeremy Jarmon

Jeremy Jarmon: DE, Kentucky (6-3, 278)
The former all-SEC defensive lineman looks to be the most coveted prospect in this year’s supplemental draft. Jarmon, who was considered one of the nation’s top senior defensive ends entering the year, was expected to be in the mix as a potential first-day pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. But after he tested positive for a banned substance, the NCAA ruled him ineligible for 2009.

After having what was said to be an impressive workout for scouts this month, Jarmon could go as early as the third round. Representatives from 18 teams showed up and were not disappointed. He ran his 40 in a time of 4.78 seconds, posted 19 reps on the bench and reached 31 inches on his vertical jump. More important, he was said to be in good shape, looked smooth during position drills and interviewed well with NFL teams.

2007 stats: 62 total tackles, 13½ tackles for loss, 9 sacks
2008 stats: 38 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 4½ sacks

Kansas State WR Deon Murphy

Deon Murphy: WR, Kansas State (5-10, 176)
Murphy burst onto the scene in 2007 after transferring from Coffeyville College as one of the nation’s top return specialists. Known for his elite speed, he instantly made a name for himself in the Big 12, taking home Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors in ’07 after finishing the season with 57 catches, 605 yards and five touchdowns. He also finished third in the nation in punt returns, averaging 17.5 yards.

However, Murphy saw a dip in his production in 2008 and left the team before 2009 spring practices after differences with new head coach Bill Snyder.

Murphy still seems to be one of the “cleaner” prospects in this year’s draft and certainly could intrigue teams in the later rounds. He not only possesses an ability to get down the field in the passing game but also doubles as a potential big-play punt return.

2007 stats: 57 receptions, 605 yards, five touchdowns 
2008 stats: 37 receptions, 555 yards, six touchdowns

Demetrice Morley: DB, Tennessee (6-2, 195)
Morley, a former five-star recruit out of high school, was one of the nation’s most sought-after defensive backs during the 2005 recruiting process.

He started 10 games in 2006 for the Volunteers and looked to be on his way to developing into a potential high-caliber prospect as a sophomore. However, his poor academics kept him from re-enrolling in 2007, and he was forced to miss the entire ’07 season. He was reinstated in 2008 and posted 42 tackles and two interceptions but was kicked off the team this year because of his inability to comply with expectations off the field by the new coaching staff.

Morley flashed some big-play potential in the Tennessee secondary as a sophomore and certainly has the athletic and physical skill set to play in the NFL. However, his track record of character concerns will almost definitely keep him from being drafted and likely force him to go the free agent route.

McKinner Dixon

McKinner Dixon: DE, Texas Tech (6-3, 252)
Dixon was named Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2008 after finishing the season with eight sacks and was expected to replace 2009 fourth-round draft pick Brandon Williams as the Red Raiders’ primary pass rusher.

However, Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach suspended Dixon indefinitely in April for “not passing the grade academically.” To make matters worse, Dixon was arrested in May for driving with an open container of alcohol in his possession.

This wasn’t Dixon’s first run-in with academic trouble, either. In 2005, he was forced to transfer to Cisco Junior College after flunking out of Texas Tech.

Dixon is a coordinated athlete who showcases the ability to reach the quarterback and create pressure off the edge. His physical attributes alone could create interest in him as a potential free agent pass rusher in either a 3-4 or 4-3 defense. However, his troubled past and character concerns significantly outweigh his potential on the field, and I can’t see a team giving up a pick for him on Thursday.

Joe McMahon: OL, Central Michigan (6-4, 295)
A versatile offensive lineman who started 12 of 13 games in 2008, rotating between right guard and center for the Chippewas. McMahon began his career at Joliet JC before signing with Iowa State and then transferring to Central Michigan. The former two-time Golden Gloves boxing champion is a gifted athlete and may draw some interest as a developmental free agent.

Blake Boyd: OLB, Western Kentucky (6-3, 248) 
A productive linebacker on the Western Kentucky defense who finished the 2008 season with 67 tackles, 9½ tackles for loss and 3½ sacks. Boyd was voted the team’s defensive MVP last year and was considered one of the top linebackers in the Sun Belt Conference before being declared academically ineligible for the 2009 season.

Corey Surrency

Torris Magee: WR, Southern Miss (6-2, 214)
A good-looking target who displays some natural body control and balance as a route runner. Magee showed a lot of promise during the 2007 season, but he quit the team in 2008 and was arrested a day later for his alleged involvement in a burglary. He has some big-time character concerns and looks like a guy who won’t see much of the NFL as a result.

Corey Surrency: WR, Florida State (6-5, 220)
Surrency is a king-sized wideout with the size to certainly create some mismatches at the next level. However, after running in the 4.65 range at his recent pro day, the NFL now looks like a bit of a long shot. He has long list of character concerns, and his talent is only borderline NFL-worthy and by no means makes up for his troubles off the field.

Be sure to check out the rest of our NFL breakdowns at NationalFootballPost.com.

 

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