2010 Draft Player Profiles

[Scarlet&Orange]

Did this last year (see the link in my sig) and decided to try to make it a tradition so we have an ongoing scouting report on all drafted players to have a sense of what these guys are coming out of the draft. It's always nice to have a point of reference for a 40 time, a particular skillset one has and/or even just a piece of information that might help explain why a player is or isn't producing. Also a good reference for trying to compare one player to another.

I'll add a seperate post for each player so just so we can keep it nice and neat please wait to post anything here until after I get all rounds completed, thanks.

[Scarlet&Orange]

1st Round #21 Overall: Jermaine Gresham
http://media.scout.com/media/image/58/581541.jpg

Agility Tests

Combine: 4.72 in the 40-yard dash... 11.88 60-yard shuttle... 7.07 three-cone drill... 35-inch vertical... 9'4" broad jump... Bench pressed 225 pounds 20 times

Campus: 4.67 in the 40-yard dash … 11.29 60-yard shuttle … 6.92 three-cone drill … 34-inch vertical jump … 9'8" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 18 times... 1.55 10-yard dash … 2.62 20-yard dash … 4.23 20-yard shuttle …


Injury Report

2005: In his playoffs vs. Coweta High, Gresham suffered a left knee anterior cruciate ligament tear that required surgery (12/09) to repair.

2009: Sat out the season after undergoing September 8th surgery to repair cartilage damage in his right knee … Was hurt in the final week of August camp.


Analysis - Football Traits

Release: Despite his height, he gets off the line quickly whether standing up or in three-point stance. Finds second gear to accelerate past linebackers. Does not face the jam often, and must learn to use his hands to defeat it.

Hands: Has worked hard to improve consistency here, and makes some very difficult catches in traffic - but still short-arms some balls and allows others into his chest. Adjusts to poorly thrown balls in any direction. Typically secures the ball before heading upfield, but gets a bit loose on occasion. Superior height and excellent vertical for his size make him a top jump ball target.

Route running: Runs short, intermediate and deep routes effectively. Smooth runner. Quicker feet than expected, and runs tight routes inside and out. Sits down in zones and presents a large target. Will use head and body fakes before planting to cut. Constantly threatens the deep seam, as teams use a cornerback to cover him. Uses his big body to shield defenders over the middle and especially in the red zone.


After the catch: Runs like a large wide receiver but is as strong as an ox after the catch. Makes defenders miss with a quick stop move and is strong enough to push oncoming tacklers by. Also able to leap defenders going for his legs. Not in the Tony Gonzalez mold for fluidity but comes fairly close. Will lean forward to run through arm tackles, sometimes requiring three defenders to bring him down.

Blocking: Effective, if not dominating, blocker in-line and on the edge when lined in the slot or in motion. On run plays he will get wide and put hands into the numbers to anchor. Latches onto defensive backs on downfield blocks, and will take them 25-30 yards downfield in front of screens. Strong enough to pancake smaller ends crashing down the line. Could be more consistent using his hands and feet to sustain. Must learn to pick up corner blitzes.

Intangibles: Proving his ability to come back from injury would be a big boost to his character grade. Team player who blocks with the same vigor he shows after the catch. Arrest for failing to appear to settle a speeding ticket in April 2009 should not have a significant impact on his draft stock.

NFL Comparison: Marcedes Lewis, Jaguars

Strengths
Rare blend of size, speed and athleticism. Vertical threat that consistently makes big plays and has a knack for getting into the end zone. Big target with large catching radius and good hands that secure balls in traffic. Possesses the body control to adjust to off target throws. Good downfield blocker.

Weaknesses
More of a long-strider than a burner. Erratic blocker with narrow base. Needs to work on route running. Loses focus at times. Missed the entire 2009 season with a knee injury.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals fill their biggest void in the passing game with the selection of Jermaine Gresham. He gives the team a legitimate threat in the middle of the field, and his exceptional receiving skills should be a nice complement to Chad Ochocinco and Antonio Bryant. Given Carson Palmer's struggles a season ago, the Bengals' revamped aerial attack should help him regain his Pro Bowl form.



Off-Field Issues

2009: Gresham was arrested in April 2009 for failing to pay (or set a court appearance to settle) a February 2009 seat belt citation.

Overview

Regarded as the most dynamic tight end to wear an Oklahoma uniform since All-American Keith Jackson (1984-87), Gresham's 2009 season came to an end before it even began. A knee injury and subsequent surgery that sidelined him for the year is now fully recovered and he is primed to show the NFL that he truly is the elite prospect at his position, with the pass-catching skills that have many experts comparing him to perennial All-Pros Tony Gonzalez (Atlanta) and Antonio Gates (San Diego).

Usually, when a player misses his final season of college football, there are many questions that he will need to answer leading up to the draft. But in the case of Gresham, all he needs to prove is that his right knee is medically sound to insure that he will be the first tight end to hear his name called.

The 2010 season was supposed to be the final hurrah for Gresham, offensive tackle Trent Williams and quarterback Sam Bradford, as that trio both surprised and pleased Sooners faithful when they announced after the 2008 season they would all be returning to the university for the 2009 season.

It was their desire to capture one more national championship and bypass the riches of a lucrative contract. But Gresham and Bradford, along with several other key Sooner performers, all suffered season-ending injuries that dashed those dreams early in the season. Gresham suffered torn cartilage in his right knee prior to the season opener vs. Brigham Young and Bradford lasted just three games before a shoulder injury would put him on the sideline.

"We feel badly for Jermaine," Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said in a statement after the tight end underwent a surgical procedure on September 8th. "He worked very hard and very selflessly to get himself ready for the season. We share in the disappointment he is experiencing now and will do everything we can to help him in his rehab efforts. The good news is that he is expected to heal fully. Many athletes have had this procedure and bounced back at 100 percent. We expect that to be the case for Jermaine."

Born to Walletta Gresham and Jerry Williamson, Gresham moved with his mother, a nurse's aid, from Ardmore, Okla. to Wichita Falls, Texas in 1997. Unhappy with being away from friends and family that he left behind, the youngster begged to go back to Ardmore, so after one year of elementary school in Texas, his mother let him move back in with his father.

Gresham liked basketball better than football until Ardmore High football coach Mike Loyd started telling him he would be unique as a wide receiver/tight end at 6-foot-6 during his freshman year. At that height he would be just another basketball player, but would stand out as a football player. He quickly adapted to the game, going on to become one of the most highly rated players in the history of the program.

During his sophomore year, Gresham helped the Tigers compile a 10-2 record, coming up with countless big catches throughout the campaign. He was credited with the game clinching 29-yard touchdown in a 13-0 win vs. Ada High, followed by a 28-yard game- sealing touchdown in a 21-8 triumph over Altus High, registering 168 yards on six catches, including a 74-yard touchdown pass. He finished the season with 11 touchdowns on just 26 receptions and was named "Best Receiver" for the 2003 season by the Daily Oklahoman.

Gresham earned Class 5A All-State honors as a junior, coming up with 52 receptions for 736 yards (14.2 yards per catch) and four scores. As a senior, he collected 67 catches for 1,170 yards (17.5 yards per catch) and 24 touchdowns, adding three more catches in the playoffs. He helped the Tigers go 12-0 before losing in the 5A state semifinals to Bixby. In the quarterfinal win over Coweta, he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, which forced him to sit out his final season with the basketball team. In three seasons with the varsity, he recorded 148 receptions.

Gresham was rated the top tight end prospect in the nation by Prep Star and Rivals.com, second by College Football News and fourth by Scout.com. He was a member of the ESPN 150 and Rivals 250 squads, in addition to receiving Prep Star Dream Team Top 100 honors in 2005. He also received Super Prep and Parade All-American recognition.

Gresham was also an outstanding basketball player before giving up the sport in 2005-06 due to his left knee surgery. He started on the varsity team as a 6-4 freshman center, going on to average 10.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game on a team led by senior point guard Lionel Brown. The Tigers made it all the way to the 2003 Class 5A state final vs. Oklahoma City's John Marshall, losing 50-46, to a team led by J. R. Giddens.

The Ardmore Tigers returned to the Class 5A championship final game for 2004, but lost to the Oklahoma City Southeast Spartans, 60-55, and finished with a 25-3 record. Gresham led the team in scoring that year, averaging 11.8 points per game to go with a 7.5 rebound average. In the championship tilt, he poured in 17 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.

The sophomore was named to the Class 5A first-team at center and was named the league's best player after averaging 16.3 points per game in the state tournament. He was also named to the All-Southern Conference team for 2003-2004.

As a junior, Gresham helped lead his team to the 2005 Class 5A state tournament semifinals with a 17.3-point season scoring average, losing to Tulsa Washington High School 71-61 (a team that included Dallas Cowboys tailback Felix Jones). In the game, Gresham stole the ball and dunked it over three defenders with 5:25 left in the third quarter, but he was penalized with a technical foul for hanging on the rim. This sparked Washington High to a 17-6 run to end the quarter at 54-40, and Ardmore never got any closer than nine (with 26 seconds remaining) the rest of the way.

For the season, Gresham averaged 26.5 points per game in the state tournament and was named to the Class 5A Boys All-Tournament first-team. He scored a career-high 39 points in a quarterfinal 78-74 win over Oklahoma City John Marshall. And for the campaign, he shot 62.3% from the field and averaged 10.2 rebounds. He received All-State second-team honors and was named the starting center to the Class 5A All-State team. He was also named the Southern Conference Boys' Player of the Year.

Early in 2005 recruiting wars, Gresham was originally intending to enroll at Louisiana State. But, right after his December knee surgery, Tigers head coach Les Miles rescinded his scholarship offer, despite being rated among the nation's elite at his position. Back on the recruiting hot stove, he considered offers from several of the big universities.

High school national analyst Jeremy Crabtree of Rivals.com called Gresham a "slam-dunk" prospect along with Oklahoma City Southeast defensive lineman Gerald McCoy. Both would eventually end up playing and starring for the Oklahoma Sooners. The receiver made just three recruiting trips (Southern California, Miami and Oklahoma) before making his decision, choosing to stay near home, so his mother could see him play.

Gresham really liked the tradition of tight ends at Miami (Bubba Franks, Jeremy Shockey and Kellen Winslow Jr.), as well as the camaraderie and closeness of the players there, but in the end it came down to being close to family and friends. He also loved the way his Oklahoma recruiters, Kevin Sumlin and Jackie Shipp, interacted with their own families. He signed with the Sooners on Feb. 1, 2006.

Despite being just eight months removed from knee surgery, Gresham was the talk of Oklahoma's fall camp in 2006. Even though he would be brought along slowly during the course of his freshman campaign, praises from staff and teammates filled the news wires leading up to the 2006 campaign. He would start two of the fourteen games he played in, finishing with 161 yards and a touchdown on eight catches (20.13 ypc), as his 41-yard grab vs. Texas was the longest catch by a freshman in school annals.

Ball-security issues early in the 2007 season kept Gresham playing most of his sophomore season in a reserve role, earning just three starting assignments in 14 games, but he proved to be one of the most lethal weapons for an offense that averaged 448.93 yards per game. He caught 37 passes for 518 yards (14.0 yards per catch), as his 11 touchdowns rank third on the school season-record list and he set the team record for most scores by a tight end in a campaign. He also earned All-American honorable mention from Sports Illustrated.

Finally named the team's full-time starter at tight end, Gresham was named to several All-American first-team squads. The John Mackey Award (nation's best tight end) finalist broke his own school tight end record with 14 touchdowns and also established Sooner tight end records with 66 receptions (fourth overall in school history) for 950 yards (fifth-best by a Sooner in a season).

[Orange and Black Attack]

Good Read, cant wait for your next one on Carlos. :denny:

[Scarlet&Orange]

2nd Round (22nd pick) #54 Overall: Carlos Dunlap
http://www.profootballprospects.com/blog/2009/10/18/floridacarlosdunlap.jpg

Agility Tests

Combine:4.71 in the 40-yard dash... 31.5" Vertical Jump... 9'03" Broad Jump... Bench Pressed 225 pounds 21 times

Injury Report
He underwent abdominal surgery spring of 2009.

Analysis- Football Traits

Pass rush: Good, not great initial quickness to force the tackle on his heels. Isn't truly fast around the edge, but has such a long gait that he can get around most offensive tackles. Has developed an effective inside spin move. Often plays too high, but has good upper-body strength and long arms to push the tackle back on the bull rush. Adequate use of hands to slap away the tackle's efforts at getting into his chest to control him, but doesn't consistently enough use great technique. Shows a good 2- to 3-yard burst when the ballcarrier is near, but may not possess great closing speed. Improved his awareness of passing lanes as a junior, knocking down six passes in 2009 after deflecting zero over the first 27 games of his career.

Run defense: Stands up and plays too upright off the snap, but has good strength and rare arm length to lock out the tackle and keep him from grabbing to lock out. Good strength to toss the tackle aside once he locates the ball. Good feel for when the cut block is coming and shows the quick hands and surprisingly good balance to keep his feet and continue moving. Struggles with the trap block. Good lateral agility and balance to penetrate inside and tackle the back from behind or to string the play out to keep contain.

Explosion: Good initial quickness to challenge the tackle in pass protection. Forces the pass blocker wide, opening a lane for his spin back inside. Among his better traits is his explosive initial pop due to his upper body strength and long arms. Can knock back the run blocker and make the tackle in the hole. Good leaper. Has blocked four kicks in his career.

Strength: Good upper- and lower-body strength, but struggles maintaining leverage. Strong initial pop and can knock the run blocker back into the pocket to disrupt running plays. Good strength to walk the pass blocker into the pocket on the bull-rush. Good strength as a tackler.

Tackling: A classic drag-down tackler with the great strength to pull down ballcarriers on the move. Inconsistent effort in pursuit. Flashes impressive agility, balance and straight-line speed to pursue laterally, but shuts it down quickly once the ballcarrier gets up the field. Needs a lane to generate momentum for explosive hits. Only had one forced fumble despite 19.5 sacks in 40 games.

Intangibles: While coach Urban Meyer called the incident way out of character and went to bat for Dunlap, others close to the Florida program have questioned his maturity. Was arrested and charged with a DUI after being found by police passed out behind the wheel at an intersection on Dec. 1 -- four days before Florida was to play Alabama for the SEC Championship. Was suspended for the game, which the Gators lost 32-13. Despite his hype and production, entered his junior season with only two career starts. Named the Defensive MVP of the 2009 BCS Championship victory over Oklahoma with four tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, a blocked field goal and half a sack.

NFL Comparison: Jamaal Anderson, Falcons

Strengths
Dunlap has almost a freakish combination of size and speed. He possesses ideal height and bulk. Displays great power at the point of attack against the run and when bull-rushing. Does a really good job with his hand use. Can come off the edge and shows some pass rushing moves. Is a very strong run defender who can penetrate, track down plays on the back side, and hold up against the power running game.

Weaknesses
There are serious character questions surrounding Dunlap including a DUI arrest. He’s also inconsistent with his work ethic. Dunlap can be an inconsistent reactor whose production fails to match his physical tools.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals have a knack for getting outstanding production from so-called character risks, and Carlos Dunlap could be the next star to overcome his circumstance. As a freakish athlete with exceptional initial quickness, Dunlap has the ability to wreak havoc off the edge. Although his motor doesn't rev high consistently, Dunlap's flashes of talent make him worthy of the risk as a second-round pick.



Off Field Issues
2009: Dec 2nd Arrest for DUI


Overview

Blessed with a rare combination of size, strength and speed -- Dunlap has drawn comparisons to former No. 1 overall selections Julius Peppers and Mario Williams -- Dunlap appeared capable of challenging to be the top pick in the draft based on his production in the SEC.

The first-team all-conference selection had nine sacks in 2009, including two against Cincinnati in the Sugar Bowl blowout, a solid follow-up to his sophomore season in which he posted 9.5 sacks en route to All-American and BCS Championship defensive MVP honors. With Tim Tebow, Brandon Spikes, Joe Haden and potentially even Urban Meyer moving on, Dunlap chose to enter the draft after his junior season. He left ranked 10th in Gator history with 19.5 sacks despite only starting 15 games over his career.

An arrest for DUI only days before the SEC Championship game, however, clouds Dunlap's status. Scouts are giving Dunlap a high grade due to his unique frame and versatility, but his alcohol-related arrest, and the timing and details of that event, might give some teams pause before adding Dunlap.

NFL.com Overview

Dunlap is a big body that could fit as an end in 4-3 or 3-4 defensive schemes. He is a better run stopper than pass rusher but has flashed ability to be effective collapsing the pocket coming off the edge. Dunlap has been inconsistent with his footwork and technique as a run defender but has natural power and length to be excellent in this phase of the game at the next level. He bats lots of balls with good awareness of throwing lanes versus the pass and has also blocked several kicks over his career on special teams. Dunlap appears to be a highly regarded 4-3 right defensive end but there will be concerns over his character and consistent effort in the 2010 draft.

Scouts Inc. Breakdown
(1 Exceptional, 2 Good, 3 average, 4 below average, 5 poor)

Production 3
2007: (13/0) 7 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 1 FF, 1 INT.
2008: (14/2) 39 tackles, 13.5 TFL, 9.5 sacks, 1 FF, 1 FR, 3 INTs; Named the Defensive MVP of the BCS National Championship Game.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Prototypical height and bulk and good top-end speed for his size.

Durability 2
2009: Undergoes abdominal surgery and misses spring workouts.

Intangibles 2
Has blocked four kicks during his career at UF. Work ethic and effort in practice have improved over the past three years but he still needs to mature and become a more consistent player. Recent DUI arrest (12/1/09) adds to character and maturity concerns.

Defensive End specific Traits
Pass Rush Skills 2 Excellent upper-body strength and flashes the ability to toss interior offensive linemen to the side. Flashes the ability to collapse the pocket coming off the edge. Shows an effective spin move and has the potential to develop an arsenal of pass rush moves but doesn’t do a good enough of job of setting tackles up to the outside before redirecting inside, and hands are more polished than footwork at this point. Has very long arms, times jumps fairly well and gets hands up when isn’t going to get to the quarterback. Uses hands to fight off cut blocks. Adequate closing speed coming off the edge and above-average closing speed for an interior defensive lineman.

Athleticism/Versatility 1 Moves very well for his size and even returned kicks for high school team. Can recover when caught collapsing too far inside or too far upfield. Shows good lateral mobility when scraping down the line of scrimmage. Can line up anywhere on the defensive line in a four-man front and could develop into an effective end in a base three-man front if moved there. Hips are a bit stiff but appears athletic enough to hold own in coverage on zone blitzes.

Versus the Run 2 Quick enough to disrupt plays in the backfield. Lacks elite range but takes adequate pursuit angles and an effective wrap-up tackler that can make plays in space. Extends arms and sets the edge when lined up at end but doesn’t always shed blocks in time to make a play and hands could be more violent at times. Plays a little too high, doesn’t consistently drive offensive tackles back and unless technique improves he is going to have a difficult time anchoring against the run when he moves inside.

Instincts/Competitiveness 2 Keeps head up and locates the ball quickly. Rarely gets caught watching the play but effort in pursuit is a bit inconsistent and could play with more of an edge. Can be a step late recognizing screens in third-and-long situations. Can get drawn offside at times (see: 2009 Vanderbilt game).


NFL Coach Analysis
Meanwhile, Wednesday was also a big day for DE Carlos Dunlap, who has had to live with his inexplicable DUI days before the SEC championship game. Dunlap also had a poor time at the combine, running a 4.71. Amid speculation on mock drafts that he had slipped out of the first round, Dunlap took the field in Gainesville hoping for a better 40 time. He said he was clocked at 4.57 and 4.59 — a huge triumph indeed.

Dunlap also had some good one-on-one time with Panthers defensive line coach Brian Baker, spending at least half an hour working on individual drills with him. Baker said:

My concern was flexibility, his ability to bend and explode, would his knees bend, drop his hips … so I did a lot of drills to get a feel for that. The other thing I want to do is get a feel for a guy’s ability to take instructions and then quickly get down and apply it and also to see if he has an understanding of why it’s being done. I’m OK with the kid. He’s a bright eyed guy, seems to have a decent understanding of what’s being told and what needs to be done.

As for the character questions about his DUI, Baker said, “I know that young kids are young kids, they make mistakes. There’s so much exposure on these kids. Back when I played you never heard of a kid getting a DUI. As long as a guy’s a good guy, and I don’t think a DUI makes him a bad guy. He made a bad decision. If a guy’s a good guy I’m OK with it. If a guy’s a turd, I don’t like it.”

[Scarlet&Orange]

3rd Round (20th pick) #84 Overall: Jordan Shipley
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_HEvIhdAYFWU/SqwiUmcL8II/AAAAAAAASnw/7KpEKy4F5Sk/s400/shipley_jordan_175.jpg

Agility Tests

Combine: 4.60 in the 40-yard dash … 1.55 10-yard dash … 2.60 20-yard dash … 36.5-inch vertical jump … 9'8" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 16 times (Did not participate in shuttles or 3 cone due to a Groin issue)

Pro Day: 4.52 in the 40-yard dash … 1.60 10-yard dash … 2.65 20-yard dash … 4.22 20-yard shuttle … 6.92 three-cone drill … 36.5-inch vertical jump … 10'0" broad jump

Campus (unofficial): 4.47 in the 40-yard dash … 1.59 10-yard dash … 2.59 20-yard dash … 4.12 20-yard shuttle … 6.71 three-cone drill … 34-inch vertical jump … 9'8" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 15 times.

Injury Report

2004-05: Hamstring injuries kept Shipley from performing at Texas during his first two seasons at the university. Granted a medical redshirt for injury,

2006: He would also miss the first two games of the 2007 season with a hamstring injury in the opposite leg (only held in the Arkansas State and TCU contests).

2009: Applied for and the NCAA awarded him a sixth year of eligibility in 2009, but he would also sit out 2009 spring with a shoulder injury that required surgery.


Analysis

Release: Lines up at multiple spots, but should work best as a slot receiver in the NFL because of his intelligence and lack of elite size. Good first step off the line, although he is not up against the jam very often. Won't eat up cushion quickly or accelerate past pro corners, and must find holes in zones and run crisp routes to free himself.

Hands: Solid hands, reliable on routine catches and capable of making the highlight reel grab. Willing to go over the middle, or up for a jump ball, and absorb a hit after the catch. Allows balls into his chest instead of catching away from his frame at times, and doesn't always adjust to high throws well. Shows good hands and makes solid decisions on punt returns, and will take the big hit. Holds for field goals and extra points.

Route running: Runs every route on the tree effectively, and has a great understanding with his quarterback. Sets up double moves by selling defenders with a head or body fake. Best working inside in zones or on crossing routes, but has the quickness to stretch the field down the seam or sideline. Uses his arms and quickness to get separation on out routes. Comes back to the quarterback or finds a hole to sit down in when needed. Inconsistent sinking his hips to explode out of cut.

After the catch: Secures ball first, then changes direction quickly or uses a stop move to gain additional yardage. Better acceleration than expected, can take off through a hole in the second level. Runs tough with a nose for the first down marker or goal line. Some elusiveness on the run, quickly sidestepping oncoming safeties, but isn't a jitterbug. Aware of the sideline, tightropes to stay in-bounds. Solid kick returner, has good hands and runs strong but could improve his vision in finding the open lane. Lacks great speed to run away from defenders with the angle.

Blocking: Very willing downfield blocker on screens and run plays, but lacks the strength to be a dominant force. Sustains adequately using his hands when he attacks a man's jersey, but will miss his target when throwing his body at the defender.

Intangibles: Sixth-year player with exceptional maturity. Gives great effort. Leader on the team both on and off the field. No character issues. Missed seasons with hamstring and leg injuries, also missed spring 2009 practices with surgery on his right shoulder.

NFL Comparison Ed McCaffrey (a shorter but faster version) Former Denver Bronco

Strengths
Shipley has enough size for the next level. He’s an athletic player with really quick feet, which he uses to get open underneath and make plays after the catch. Possesses elite ball skills. Consistently catches the ball away from his body, will adjust to the bad pass, and is willing to go over the middle. Is a heady route runner and gets open against zone coverage. Extremely competitive.

Weaknesses
Shipley lacks premier top end speed, doesn’t have a ton of experience going deep and won’t really scare too many NFL DB’s as a vertical threat. Durability is potentially a concern. Suffered serious hamstring injury early in career and other minor ailments.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals continue to upgrade the talent in their aerial attack with the addition of Jordan Shipley. As a multi-faceted playmaker with exceptional hands and running skills, Shipley is an ideal slot receiver candidate. Additionally, he brings dynamic return skills to the mix, and could develop into a Wes Welker-like playmaker in the Bengals' offense.


Overview

In 2006, Shipley wasn't necessarily dreaming of the NFL, but merely playing football again. After he missed the 2004 and '05 seasons due to injuries, Shipley was able to get back on the field -- and become an elite receiver.

The synchronicity between receiver and quarterback is always crucial for a successful passing game. But, the bond between Shipley and Colt McCoy goes well beyond the football field. The history between the McCoys and Shipleys go back to even before their famous collegiate sons were born. Colt's father, Brad, was a safety at Abilene Christian. Brad was roommates with Shipley's father, Bob.

The roommates would continue to be involved in football as coaches. Brad McCoy is now the head coach at Graham High School, where Colt's brother, Case, was the starting quarterback. Brad had previously coached Colt during their time at Jim Ned High. Bob Shipley is the head coach at Brownwood High School and previously coached Jordan, first at Rotan High School and later at Burnet High.

Jordan Shipley was granted his sixth year of eligibility after the 2008 season that saw him produce the first of two All-American campaigns. By the time he would hang up his Texas helmet for good, Shipley would become the school's record-holder with 248 receptions, finishing second in school annals with 3,191 yards receiving and 33 touchdown catches.

Shipley also excelled on special teams. He averaged 12.5 yards per punt return, running back three attempts for touchdowns. He also averaged 24.63 yards per kickoff return, including one for a score. In addition, he served as UT's holder on field goals and PATs. He closed out his career with 4,196 all-purpose yards, the eighth-best total in the history of Texas football.

Shipley is the only player in school history to catch ten or more passes in back-to-back games and owns the Longhorn record with three consecutive games with 10 or more receptions (vs. Texas Tech, Texas-El Paso and Colorado in 2009). His nine contests with at least ten catches established a Longhorns career-record. He also holds the UT record for most receptions in a game with 15, set in 2008 vs. Oklahoma State.

The talented receiver has shown a keen eye for the end zone. He put together a record-breaking string of at least one touchdown reception in eight consecutive games to open the 2008 season. He would go on to score 24 times in his last 27 games, coming up with at least one scoring grab in 18 of those contests. He is the first player in Texas history to score touchdowns by a reception, kickoff and punt return in the same season.

Shipley became just the fourth Longhorn to record a punt return and a kickoff return for touchdowns during a career. His three punt returns for scores tied the UT career-record and his total kicks returned for touchdowns (four) also tied the Longhorns all-time mark.

The only player in school history to catch 80 or more passes in back-to-back seasons, Shipley and McCoy would become the most dangerous quarterback-to-receiver tandem in Texas annals. The duo would hook up for 205 receptions, good for 2,545 yards and 24 touchdowns during their final two seasons together. In 2008, Shipley teamed with Quan Cosby to give Texas its most productive receiving tandem in school history, as the pair combined for 181 receptions for 2,183 yards.

Shipley was coached by his father at Burnet High School during his final three prep seasons after the pair began their football time together during Jordan's freshman campaign at Rotan High. Shipley was twice named Class 3A All-State first-team, where he excelled as a receiver, defensive back and on special teams. He earned 2004 Parade All-America honors and was named the 2003 Old Spice "Red Zone" Player of the Year by USA Today.

Shipley was tabbed the 2003 Class 3A Texas Player of the Year by Dave Campbell's Texas Football and chosen the 3A Offensive Player of the Year by the Texas Sports Writers Association. He also earned first-team 3A All-State honors at receiver by the Associated Press and was a second-team All-State pick as a defensive back and third-team selection as a kick returner, in addition to receiving District 25-3A MVP honors that year.

Shipley recorded 264 career catches for 5,424 yards (rank second all-time nationally) and 73 touchdowns (also rank second all-time nationally), which are still the state prep records. He had 23 career interceptions and 18 kick returns for touchdowns. He led his team to a 28-2 record and back-to-back 3A Div. I state final games in his last two years and a 46-8 mark in four seasons as a starter.

As a senior, Shipley caught 95 passes for 1,920 yards and 30 touchdowns in leading 3A Division I state runner-up Burnet to a 14-1 record. He also had eight interceptions, 73 tackles and 17 pass deflections on defense and returned two punts and a pair of kick-offs for scores in 2003. That performance earned him an invitation to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

Shipley caught 80 passes for 1,717 yards and 22 touchdowns en route to first-team All-State honors and 3A Offensive Player of the Year accolades as a junior. He had 30 total touchdowns and posted 10 interceptions (three returned for scores) that year, as he helped his squad post a 14-1 record and reach the 3A Division I state finals.

The receiver began his Burnet High career by 47 passes for 1,119 yards and 15 touchdowns in leading his team to an 8-3 mark as a sophomore. He was the starting receiver at Class 1A Rotan High as a freshman and earned second-team all-state honors as a kick returner and third-team recognition at receiver.

Shipley also lettered and competed in state championships in track (four years), basket-ball (three years) and golf (two years). He was part of a fifth-place finish in the 400 meter relay and sixth -place finish in the 800 meter relay at the Class 3A state meet in 2003.

Hamstring issues kept Shipley from performing at Texas during his first two seasons at the university (2004-05). He would also miss the first two games of the 2007 season with a hamstring injury in the opposite leg. He applied for and the NCAA awarded him a sixth year of eligibility in 2009, but he would also sit out 2009 spring with a shoulder injury that required surgery.

Shipley finally got the opportunity to play at Texas in 2006. He appeared in thirteen games as a reserve flanker, earning his first career start vs. Texas Tech. He also worked as a kickoff and punt returner and served as UT's holder, earning the team's Frank Medina Rehabilitation Award. He closed out his first campaign with 16 catches for 229 yards (14.31 yards per catch) and four touchdowns, adding 110 yards on seven carries (15.7 yards per catch).

As a sophomore, Shipley shared flanker duties with Nate Jones and Billy Pittman, stating seven of 13 games. He ranked fourth on the squad with 417 yards and five touchdowns on 27 receptions (15.44 yards per catch), as he also performed on the special teams coverage units, recording four tackles.

Shipley started all year at flanker in 2008, earning Associated Press All-American third-team honors as a receiver, adding Sports Illustrated honorable mention as a return specialist. He ranked second on the team with 89 receptions, as his 1,060 yards (11.91 yards per catch) ranks fifth on the school season-record list. He averaged 10.67 yards with a score via punt returns and 26.27 yards with another touchdown as a kickoff returner, scoring 78 points while generating 119.23 all-purpose yards per game.

Shipley garnered All-American honors, as the Biletnikoff Award finalist and Maxwell Award semifinalist ranked fifth in the nation with a school season-record 116 receptions. He placed sixth nationally with a UT record 1,485 yards receiving, establishing another Long-horn season mark with thirteen touchdown grabs. He returned two punts for scores, ranking 14th nationally with a 12.96-yard average. He scored 90 points and had 1,870 all-purpose yards, the seventh-best season total in school annals, starting the first six games at flanker before shifting to split end for the rest of the campaign.

NFL.com Overview

Shipley has been a productive receiver at one of the top programs in the country for the past two years. He had some durability issues early in his career with hamstring pulls and a shoulder injury but has not missed any games in the last three years. He is explosive off the line and runs extremely crisp routes that allow him to separate from defenders with a good short burst. He is a natural when it comes to adjusting to off-target throws and will go over the middle to catch the ball in traffic. If he had better top end speed he would be pretty much the total package.

[Scarlet&Orange]

3rd Round (32nd pick) #96 Overall: Brandon Ghee
http://www.prodraftparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/ghee.jpg

Agility Tests

Combine: 4.37 in the 40-yard dash … 1.52 10-yard dash … 2.47 20-yard dash … 4.07 20-yard shuttle … 11.21 60 yard shuttle... 6.75 three-cone drill … 37-inch vertical jump … 10'7" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 15 times.

Pro Day: 10'2" broad jump... 3.98 20-yard shuttle


Injury Report

2009: Missed spring practice following a sprained knee on the first day. Missed two games during the season to a sprained ankle.

Analysis

Read & React: Marginal read-and-react skills. Aggressive making plays on the ball, but too often doesn't make the play when it appears he should. Better hitter than pass defender to this point.

Man Coverage: Looks the part and has good straight-line speed. Good agility and balance in coverage. Can flip his hips and run with receivers, though his long legs are not conducive to his breaking quickly and truly mirroring receivers. Has the speed to recover, but can be beaten by sharp routes. Not yet the sum of his parts. Faster than he is quick and will give up too much cushion, too often allowing the reception rather than going for the pass breakup.

Zone Coverage: Has the IQ, speed and reliable tackling ability to be a fine zone coverage defender. Too late reacting to the play. Prefers to go for the big hit rather than making an attempt on the ball for the interception. Physical defender who is aggressive in his hand punch at the line of scrimmage and isn't afraid to battle with receivers throughout the route.

Closing/Recovery: Good lateral agility and has an explosive burst to close when needed. Competes as the ball arrives and has the long arms and quick hands to knock passes away before a receiver can secure it. Times his leaps well to compete against bigger receivers. True defensive back hands but has only one interception in 34 starts (25 passes broken up).

Run Support: Aggressive in run support. Quickly gets through receiver blocks and is willing to stick his head into the action with the big boys on his way to the runner. Good open-field hitter who flashes heavy-hitting ability.

Tackling: Big hitter who times his hits well. Lowers his shoulder into the ballcarrier and can jar the ball loose. Can improve wrapping up as a tackler, as NFL receivers will be better able to absorb hits and keep their feet.

Intangibles: Struggled amid high expectations as a senior. Missed the 2007 season serving an academic suspension. Missed the 2009 spring practice after suffering a sprained knee on the first day. Missed two games in '09 due to a sprained ankle.

NFL Comparison: Vontae Davis, Dolphins & Johnathan Joseph, Bengals

Strengths
Ghee has a terrific blend of size and athleticism with good height and overall speed. He’s a tough defensive back who isn’t afraid to stick his nose in on run support. Ghee’s a competitive cover-man capable of pressing receivers at the line. He’s been a productive performer during his time with the Demon Deacons

Weaknesses
Ghee needs to watch his pad level, which gets a little high. He takes extra step to transition, must get more out of each stride. Needs to improve his open field tackling and can be caught out of position at times. Must do a better job using his good height and long arms when separating from blockers.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals take a flyer on one of the fastest corners at the NFL Scouting Combine. Brandon Ghee posted times in the low 4.4-second range, and his impressive straight-line speed gives him a chance to make it as a nickel corner. Though he will need some skill refinement to fulfill his potential, the Bengals have the luxury of waiting on his development due to their outstanding talent at the position.

Overview

Blessed with the prototypical blend of size and straight-line speed, Ghee looks the part of a high-round selection despite having never earned all-conference honors in three seasons as a starting cornerback for the Demon Deacons.

The athletically gifted Ghee has been impressive in high profile matchups with big receivers, but struggled against smaller, quicker wideouts. More interested in applying the big hit than the interception, some scouts feel his pro best position will be safety. There is merit there, considering his production as a tackler (154 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss) and lack of big plays generated when in coverage (one interception out of 26 passes defensed).

NFL.com Overview

Ghee has good size and excellent speed for the position. He has the quickness and burst to be a solid coverage defender but lacks the foot agility, pad level and body positioning to be consistent in this area. Ghee has long arms and flashes the ability to jam and re-route receivers off the line of scrimmage but lets receivers get too much separation downfield too often. He is a willing run support defender but isn’t physical enough to make plays on larger ball carriers and receivers. Ghee needs to be more physical warding off blockers as well as wrapping up when tackling. Ghee has been a durable productive cornerback that has the size and athleticism to be a contributor at the next level but isn’t talented enough to impact a club as a rookie.

[Scarlet&Orange]

4th Round (22nd pick) #120 Overall: Geno Atkins
http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/GENOATKINS1_17150.JPG

Agility Tests

Combine: 4.75 in the 40-yard dash … 1.68 10-yard dash … 2.64 20-yard dash … 4.43 20-yard shuttle … 7.33 three-cone drill … 33-inch vertical jump … 9'9" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 34 times.

Analysis

Pass rush: Very good initial explosion off the snap. Very good bull rush to push the guard deep into the pocket. Needs to improve his use of hands to disengage from blocks. Relies on his quickness and strength, but too rarely is able to get off blocks once properly engaged. Doesn't make enough plays in the backfield for how consistently he's back there.

Run defense: Initial quickness and explosive pop he hit offensive linemen with can be just as effective against the running game. Recognizes the cut block and sprawls quickly to protect his knees. Good upper-body strength to slip off blocks as the ballcarrier runs past. Lacks sustained quickness to close, however. If he doesn't stop the ballcarrier at the line, Atkins rarely gets him as he shows only marginal effort in pursuit.

Explosion: Fires off the ball, showing very good quickness off the snap. Can split the gap and disrupt the play before it has a chance to get started.

Strength: Good strength to stack and shed. Uses his natural leverage advantage and good lower body strength to anchor.

Tackling: Good strength to slip off blocks for the drag-down tackle as the ballcarrier is slipping by. Marginal flexibility to break down in space and resorts to lunging. Good explosiveness if given a clear lane to generate speed.

Intangibles: Short, stumpy defender with limited room for additional muscle mass. Constantly rotated here and seems to tire easily. Good bloodlines. Father, Gene Atkins, Sr., played 10 years in the NFL as a safety with the New Orleans Saints. Occasionally lined up as a fullback in short-yardage situations. Hasn't proven the work ethic or determination to take advantage of his skill set. Seems to have the tools to be a difference-maker, but needs constant prodding from coaches. Good academics. Graduated from high school a semester early and has earned Honor Roll recognition while at UGA.

NFL Comparison: Anthony (Booger) McFarland, ex-Tampa Bay/Indianapolis

Strengths
Atkins has been a productive SEC defensive tackle. He plays with great intelligence and instincts and was a good student at Georgia as well. Plays with good motor and doesn’t stop till the whistle. Displays impressive quickness off the ball and good lateral agility in pursuit. Has impressive pass rushing ability for a defensive tackle.

Weaknesses
He’s undersized as a defensive tackle lacking adequate height and bulk. Doesn’t have the power to consistently hold up at the point of attack against the run and is overpowered by bigger blockers. Must become more consistent with his hand use.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals bolster their defensive tackle rotation with the selection of Geno Atkins. The Georgia product has good strength for the position, and gives the team another big body to use at nose tackle. With their defense slowly joining the ranks of the elite, the Bengals' selection of Atkins adds quality depth along the line.



Overview

A highly-touted prep prospect who signed with Georgia after being tabbed the 5-A state of Florida Defensive Player of the Year, Atkins appeared to be a bright young star by his sophomore season. Despite only starting seven games in 2007, Atkins was a virtual bowling ball of butcher knives with 41 tackles, including 15 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks.

Unfortunately, he has been unable to match that production since.

Understandably, much was expected out of Atkins in 2008. While he started all 13 games and posted solid tackle numbers (34), his production behind the line of scrimmage shrunk significantly (7.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks). Rather than pin all of the blame on Atkins, many insiders felt the loss of fellow tackle Jeff Owens to a torn ACL in the first game of the season simply allowed offenses to focus interior blocking schemes on Atkins.

With Owens back on the field in 2009, however, Atkins remained maddeningly inconsistent -- posting intriguing numbers (33 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks) but doing so while only starting three of 13 games because the coaching staff didn't know what kind of effort they'd get out of him.

Atkins may have to be used on a rotational system early in his career -- not just because he tires quickly but to use playing time as a motivator - but his display of exceptional quickness and strength at the Senior Bowl and Combine, however, made scouts wonder if he could be a better NFL player than a collegiate one.

NFL.com Overview

Atkins is an undersized interior defender that is very productive at the collegiate level. He understands angles and how to leverage blockers with proper pad level and deceptive strength. Atkins is best when on the move (stunting) and does a great job of penetrating the line of scrimmage to disrupt the run as well as pressure the quarterback. Atkins is a good football player that needs to improve his hand use and expand his pass rush package to be effective at the next level. He should contribute at the next level in the right system (4-3 scheme) but may struggle due to lack of size.

[Scarlet&Orange]

4th Round (33rd pick) #131 Overall: Roddrick Muckelroy
http://draftbreakdown.com/images/roddrick_muckelroy.jpg


Agility Tests

Combine: 4.68 in the 40-yard dash … 1.67 10-yard dash … 2.73 20-yard dash … 4.39 20-yard shuttle … 7.25 three-cone drill … 31-inch vertical jump … 9'2" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 19 times.

Pro Day: 4.67 in the 40-yard dash … 1.68 10-yard dash … 2.76 20-yard dash

Campus (unofficial) : 4.84 in the 40-yard dash … 1.73 10-yard dash … 2.85 20-yard dash … 4.39 20-yard shuttle … 12.29 60-yard shuttle … 7.25 three-cone drill … 31-inch vertical jump … 9'2" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 19 times … 32 1/2-inch arm length … 9 1/4-inch hands.

Injury Report

2006: Suffered a ruptured tendon in his right ring finger vs. Rice (9/16) … Under-went surgery five days later, missing the final ten games.

2007: Left the Iowa State game (10/13) in the first quarter with a strained hamstring and did not return.

2009: Sat out the Baylor game (11/14) with a knee sprain.

Analysis

Read & React: Typical weak-side linebacker who flows to the ball well. Plays faster than 40 time indicates. Keeps his eyes in the backfield in coverage, and is quick enough to get sideline angle to prevent long QB runs or force throws across the body. Stays home against misdirection and does not take many false steps.

Run defense: Attacks holes in the line and fills quickly. Gets pads low to make tackles near the line. Chases plays to the opposite sideline and down the line of scrimmage. Shows great downfield hustle to prevent long touchdown runs. Uses his hands to avoid cut blocks in space. Could be stronger against tight end blocks, and gets taken out the play instead of punching to get off. Chooses to run around blocks for that reason. High-cut and a bit thin in the hips, he might struggle against NFL offensive linemen.

Pass defense: Has a safety's build and agility. Recognizes and attacks receiver screens. Agile enough to drop into medium zones; good ball awareness, and will hit the receiver quickly after the ball arrives -- if he doesn't get to it first. Has the quickness to recover if fooled by misdirection. Handles coverage responsibilities in the flat but may not have the speed to stay with backs downfield. Physical with tight ends on the line but is at a height disadvantage downfield.

Tackling: Brings down ballcarriers effectively when on the attack using his length and change-of-direction ability. Likes to lay the wood when possible. Should wrap and secure more often in space, however, instead of going for the big shoulder-first hit. Able to strip the ball when he does wrap. Plays with speed and aggression inside on special teams coverage units. Lacks the bulk to bring down big backs or receivers with a head of steam.

Pass Rush/Blitz: Used as a pass rusher from the middle in 2009, he has the quickness and the tackling ability to attack the QB or be effective in the run blitz. Agile enough to jump over running back cut blocks. Good change-of-direction agility to track the quarterback down outside the pocket. Must prove he is strong enough to get off NFL fullback blocks and drag down stronger pro quarterbacks and running backs in the backfield.

Intangibles: Quiet intimidator. Hustles on the field and knows his responsibilities. Known for his knowledge of the game and film study. Earned Frank Medina Rehabilitation Award for coming back from ruptured tendon in right ring finger suffered in 2006. No major character issues.

NFL Comparison: Michael Boley, New York Giants

Strengths
Muckelroy has the size, strength and athleticism you look for in a 4-3 outside linebacker. Was a highly productive player in college. Possesses rare instincts when diagnosing the play. Plays with outstanding toughness flying around to the football. Has tremendous work ethic and leadership skills that coaches love to see in their linebackers.

Weaknesses
Durability concerns early in his career are the only true red flags when evaluating Muckelroy. At times, can have trouble disengaging from blockers. Can be engulfed by bigger lineman at the point of attack. Is not a real striker as a tackler. Doesn’t have elite speed but makes up for it with his instincts.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals pick up Roddrick Muckelroy to bolster their depth a linebacker. The Texas standout has good instincts and awareness, and plays much faster than he tested during workouts. Given the Bengals' immense talent at the position, he will have to make his contributions as a special teams player during his rookie season.

Overview

Players like Brian Orakpo and Sergio Kindle have garnered most of the media attention, but the coaching staff raves about the work ethic and game preparation that Muckelroy brought to the team.

Muckelroy is a student of the game who breaks down game films, spots tendencies of the opposition and acts like a coach on the field while also serving as a mentor for his younger teammates. Some of the staff jokes that his biggest strengths might consist of a pencil and a piece of paper.

Muckelroy's work ethic has helped him become one of the Longhorns' defensive leaders. Muckelroy's ability to play any of the three linebacker positions has proven to be invaluable. Most of his starting experience came at the weak-side outside linebacker position, but when 2009 fall camp injuries depleted the depth at middle linebacker, he made a seamless transition moving inside, going on to earn All-Big Twelve Conference honors for the second time as a starter.

The veteran of the Texas defense has also set a good example for his fellow mates to hit everything that gets in your way. He nicknamed his unit, "The Goon Squad" for their ability to attack the pocket relentlessly. Muckelroy told the Austin American-Statesman "it means throwing your body around without a care."

Harming opposing quarterbacks seems to be another trait. Texas knocked out Missouri's Blaine Gabbert, a week after ending Sam Bradford's season for Oklahoma. While he might play as if he's on a "search and destroy" mission, off the field Muckelroy is possibly more involved within the community than any other Longhorn.

At Hallsville High School, Muckelroy was a four-year starter at linebacker and also played some running back. He was a first-team Class 4A All-State selection by the Associated Press and Texas Sports Writers Association as a senior, adding All-Area and All-District honors. That season, he recorded 104 tackles, four sacks, 12 stops for loss, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery, adding two rushing touchdowns while lining up at fullback in goal-line situations.

As a junior, Muckelroy was tabbed honorable mention All-State by the Associated Press and was also a first-team All-Area and All-District running back. He posted 144 tackles, 14 for loss, while rushing 89 times for 664 yards and nine touchdowns that year. He recorded 21 tackles, a forced fumble and scored two touchdowns, including the game-winner, vs. Palestine in the first round of the playoffs in 2003.

During his sophomore season, he made 108 tackles, two sacks, seven stops for loss, one interception, five fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles. He also added 98 rushes for 448 yards and two scores. He had 378 tackles and 33 stops behind the line of scrimmage during his career. He also lettered twice in basketball and competed in track for three years in the 100m, 200m and mile relay.

Muckelroy enrolled at Texas in 2005, spending the season as a red-shirt on the scout team. While it is rare for first-year players in the program to see much playing time, he had a stellar 2006 preseason and was anointed the team's starting weak-side linebacker. He had ten tackles (10 solos) with a sack and 2.5 stops for losses to begin the season, but early in the third game vs. Rice, he ruptured a tendon in his right ring finger. Surgery was performed and he missed the rest of the schedule.

When he returned to the field in 2007, Muckelroy was no longer the starter, but he proved to be valuable coming off the bench. He played in 13 games, starting vs. Arizona State in the Holiday Bowl as a strong-side linebacker. He rewarded the coaches' faith in him by producing 59 tackles (40 solos) with 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception, despite being hampered a bit in mid-October by a strained hamstring.

Again preparing as if his next game would be his last, Muckelroy wrested back his weak-side linebacker job in 2008, starting all 13 games. He paced the Longhorns with a career-best 102 tackles (69 solo). He showed off his "old" running back skills in the Texas-El Paso clash, racing 26 yards with a fumble recovery for a touchdown.

When projected starter Jared Norton was lost due to an injury, Muckelroy slid over to man the middle linebacker position in 2009. He helped the team lead the nation in rush defense (72.36 yards per game) and rank third in total defense (251.93 yards per game), as he again led the squad with 85 tackles (59 solo) that included two sacks and nine stops behind the line of scrimmage, despite sitting out the Baylor contest with a knee sprain.

NFL.com Overview

Muckelroy has an excellent combination of size, strength and athleticism for the linebacker position. Muckelroy is a hard-nosed high energy athlete that plays with great instincts and discipline within the Longhorns defensive scheme. He uses his hands well to control and separate from blockers which allow him to maintain great leverage as a run defender. He understands angles and run fits in the Texas 4-3 front. Muckelroy is a solid coverage defender as he understands route progressions along with enough agility, quickness and speed to be effective in combination zone schemes. He doesn’t possess elite range but his quickness, balance and instincts get him to the ball regularly. Muckelroy is an excellent football player with versatility and enough tools to have an impact in his rookie season.

[Scarlet&Orange]

5th Round (21st pick) #152 Overall: Otis Hudson
http://media.scout.com/Media/Image/46/465557.jpg

Agility Tests

Combine: (DNP)

Pro Day: 5.17 in the 40-yard dash … 1.80 10-yard dash … 2.96 20-yard dash … 4.91 20-yard shuttle … 8.14 three-cone drill … 26.5-inch vertical jump … 8'09" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 21 times.

Analysis

Positives: Tall, athletic tackle who has the lateral movement and strength to be a good developmental prospects on the right side. Able to move FCS DEs easily with raw upper-body strength. Is mobile enough to get downfield and to the linebackers at the second level.

Negatives: Small school competition didn't prepare him for the pros. Raw talent. Needs better knee bend and leverage against NFL strong-side defensive ends. Catches rushers instead of bending at the waist, punching and dominating. Needs to toughen up a bit before being a regular contributor. Not a great weight-room guy.

Strengths
Shows above average pass pro technique, feet and backpedal for such a big man and for a collegiate ROT. We are projecting him inside, but he might be able to stay right where he is at the next level. Seems to give good effort on every snap. Doesn't look quite 331, and plays like a lighter man. Sets up well in pass pro, but sometimes over-reaches and loses contact. Must move feet even more against speed. Has some tools, and certainly has the size.

Weaknesses
A bit of an O-line tweener. Not a real killer in the run game. More of a finesse guy despite his size. Not sure he has a real pro position. May need to hit the weights more. LOC concerns.

Pick Analysis: This is a really good pick. He has really good feet and long arms. The only thing he lacks is strength. Bengals offensive line coach Paul Alexander loved him when he worked him out, and he is always very thorough in his evaluations.

Overview

Hudson began his career at Minnesota in 2005, when he redshirted as a defensive tackle. He played in five games in 2006, when he played a total of 97 snaps. He played four games as a defensive lineman in '07 before moving to offensive tackle.

In 2008, Hudson transferred from Minnesota to Eastern Illinois. He started nine games at right tackle in 2008 and all 12 in '09, when he finished with the second-highest snap total on the roster. He was credited with 37 "decleater" blocks in two seasons with the Panthers.

Hudson was recruited to Minnesota out of Barrington High School, where he was on the Top 100 list by the Chicago Tribune as an all-conference offensive tackle and lettered all four years in basketball and track.

Hudson has the ability to play guard and possibly center in the NFL depending on the offensive scheme.

High School

A 2005 graduate of Barrington High School (Ill.)? high school coach was Joe Sanchez was an all-conference and all-area performer his senior season named to the Chicago Tribune's Top 100 list was also a four-year letterwinner in both basketball and track.

[Scarlet&Orange]

6th Round (22nd pick) #191 Overall: Dezmon Briscoe
http://media.kusports.com/img/football/hawktrax/briscoe_2008.jpg


Position WR

#Height:
6'2"
#Weight:
207 lbs.
#Arm Length:
33 1/2 in.
#Hand Size:
9 1/2 in.

Agility Tests

Combine: 4.66 in the 40-yard dash … 1.60 10-yard dash … 2.68 20-yard dash … 4.57 20-yard shuttle … 7.10 three-cone drill … 33-inch vertical jump … 9'7" broad jump... Bench pressed 225 pounds 9 times

Pro Day: 4.51 in the 40-yard dash … 1.65 10-yard dash … 2.58 20-yard dash … 4.15 20-yard shuttle … 7.10 three-cone drill … 34-inch vertical jump … 10'5" broad jump... Bench pressed 225 pounds 11 times

Campus (unofficial): 4.67 in the 40-yard dash … 1.64 10-yard dash … 2.71 20-yard dash … 4.26 20-yard shuttle … 11.42 60-yard shuttle … 7.10 three-cone drill … 33.5-inch vertical jump … 9'6" broad jump.

Injury Report

No major injuries reported.

Analysis

Release: Lacks elite quickness out of his stance but could handle most college corners at the line with a quick shake and/or a strong punch. Long strides allow him to pass corners when they play off. Lacks a second gear to blow by safeties who have the angle.

Hands: Very good concentration in traffic and on loose balls, making very difficult catches look easy. Tracks the ball well over both shoulders. His height and adequate vertical make him a good red-zone target. Lapses of concentration occur on easier catches, sometimes multiple times in a game. Traps the ball against his body when untrusting of his hands.

Route running: Used as expected down the sideline and on jump balls, but is also willing to go over the middle and run jerk routes inside with surprising foot quickness. Separates from defenders using his body and hands downfield.

After the catch: Takes time to get to speed and is not as agile as many top receivers, though he flashes solid balance and some elusiveness with the ball in his hands. Uses a stiff arm or swim move and keeps his leg moving after the catch, making him difficult for smaller corners and safeties in the open field. Good awareness of the sideline, feet are nimble enough to stay in-bounds.

Blocking: Has the strength, size and willingness to be an effective blocker, but that wasn't a main focus in the Jayhawks' offense. Effort to get to his man could be more consistent, and he'll need to move his feet to sustain on the edge.

Intangibles: Physical, competitive receiver who plays with swagger but doesn't talk much, he works hard before and after the catch to make a big play

Strengths
Briscoe has really nice size. Has been extremely productive in college. Has a nice set of hands and can grab the errant throw, fight for the jump ball and extend and catch away from his body. Is a surprisingly effective player after the catch. Is natural with the ball in his hands, can make defenders miss, and has a natural feel for finding open seams.

Weaknesses
Briscoe needs to become a more consistent performer. Isn’t overly sudden and builds to speed as he goes. Doesn’t eat up cushions quickly. Occasionally hears footsteps over the middle and gets alligator arms. Needs to become more reliable catching the ball in traffic.

Pick Analysis: The Bengals just drafted a very talented wide receiver late in the sixth round. Briscoe ran poorly at the NFL Scouting Combine, and had some off-the-field concerns too, as far as work ethic and consistency. However, he's a big, physical receiver with good hands and worth a shot at this point.


Off-Field Issues

2007: Briscoe was arrested in June and charged with theft by deception, less than $1,000, after he was caught shoplifting at a Lawrence area Wal-mart. He was charged as a juvenile because the theft is alleged to have occurred before Briscoe was 18. In addition to Briscoe, his mother, Shannon Greene, was ordered to appear in Douglas County District Court on Nov. 29, right after the conclusion of Kansas' regular season schedule.

2009: Was suspended for a month before being re-instated in April, due to an undisclosed violation of team rules. As further punishment, he was not allowed to play in Kansas' season opener vs. Northern Colorado (9/05).

Overview

Briscoe is a big, physical receiver whose 31 touchdown receptions in 37 games with the Jayhawks proved his ability to find the end zone. Perhaps one of the most unrecognized deep threats in college football, he has produced 219 receptions during his career (second in school history), with 49 of those catches resulting in gains of 20 yards or longer.

Briscoe and Kerry Meier became one of the most productive receiving tandems in the NCAA since stepping into the lineup in 2007. Despite the team's 5-7 record in 2009, the duo averaged 193.50 yards receiving per game in 2009, which ranked second in the nation to Missouri's tandem of Danario Alexander and Jared Perry (200.27 yards per game).

Their combined average of 15.5 receptions per game also ranked second nationally, surpassed by only Bowling Green's pair of receivers, Freddie Barnes and Chris Wright (15.46 receptions per game). Briscoe (seven) and Meier (five) combined for twelve 100-yard receiving performances in 2009. Seven times during that season, the duo produced 10-reception contests (Briscoe-two; Meier-five).

The school's record-holder for touchdown receptions, 100-yard receiving performances and receiving yardage, Briscoe finished his career fourth in Big Twelve Conference history with his 31 scoring grabs and 3,240 aerial yards. His 269 yards receiving vs. Oklahoma in 2008 set the school game-record and rank third on the league record chart. He also boasts the second-best receiving game by a Jayhawk with his 242-yard effort vs. Missouri in 2009, which rank fourth in Big Twelve annals.

At Cedar Hill High School, Briscoe earned All-District first-team honors following his senior season in 2006. That year, he produced 37 catches for 708 yards and 11 touchdowns, as he scored at least once in 9-of-12 games. His best performance came vs. Bowie High, when he collected six catches for 139 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He helped Cedar Hill to a record of 23-4 his last two seasons and a state championship in 2006, earning two varsity letters in football.

Briscoe enrolled at Kansas in 2007, but even before his career began, it almost ended. In June of that year, he was arrested in Lawrence for shoplifting and was charged with theft by deception, less than $1,000. According to court filings, Briscoe tried to steal merchandise from Wal-Mart. He was charged as a juvenile because the theft occurred before he turned 18.

Briscoe earned Freshman All-American honorable mention in 2007. He started the team's final 11 games at flanker, finishing fourth on the team with 43 receptions for 496 yards (11.53 yards per catch), as he also registered seven touchdown grabs.

The Insight Bowl Most Valuable Player added All-Big Twelve Conference second-team and All-American honorable mention in 2008. He ranked tied for 15th in the nation and placed second on the team with a career-high 92 receptions. He paced the Jayhawks with a school season-record 1,407 yards receiving (15.29 ypc), finishing fourth nationally with an average of 108.23 yards per game receiving.

His 1,644 all-purpose yards rank fourth on the Kansas season-record chart and his average of 162.55 all-purpose yards ranked second in the conference and 13th nationally. He scored 90 points, recorded two solo tackles and averaged 27.38 yards after taking over kickoff return duties. His fifteen touchdown receptions set the school annual record.

During March 2009 preseason drills, Briscoe was suspended from practices by head coach Mark Mangino for an undisclosed violation of team rules. He was re-instated to team activities a month later, but as part of his suspension, he was not allowed to play in the season opener vs. Northern Colorado.

Briscoe would go on to start 10-of-11 games as a junior, earning All-Big Twelve Conference first-team accolades. He ranked ninth in the nation with an average of 7.64 receptions per game and fifth with 121.55 yards receiving. He pulled in 84 passes for 1,337 yards (15.92 yards per catch) with nine touchdowns (third-best in school history). He averaged 22.74 yards on 19 kickoff returns that included a score and his 1,788 all-purpose yards rank as the second-best season total by a Jayhawk.

Prior to the season finale, Briscoe decided that he would not return to the university for the 2010 season and declared that he would enter the 2010 NFL Draft.

The last two Kansas players who left early for the NFL were cornerback Aqib Talib and offensive tackle Anthony Collins, who declared for the draft after the 2007 season. Talib was the 20th overall pick by Tampa Bay, while Collins was a fourth-round selection (112th overall) of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2008 draft. Four Jayhawks were drafted in 2008 as tight end Derek Fine was a fourth-round pick (132nd overall) by Buffalo and wide receiver Marcus Henry was taken in the sixth round by the New York Jets. No KU players were selected in the 2009 draft.


NFL.com Overview

Briscoe is a talented receiver that has been plagued with inconsistencies. He builds to speed more than being explosive or instant but does show a gear to pull away once he gets even with defenders and can run down some deep balls. He is not as physical or aggressive to the ball when in a crowd as you’d expect for someone with his size. If he can mature both physically as well as emotionally he has a chance to become a quality second receiver.

[Scarlet&Orange]

Round 7 (pick 21) #228 Overall: Reggie Stephens
http://image.cdnl3.xosnetwork.com/pics21/200/HL/HLQDRLEWNLNYXFC.20090514140836.JPG

Agility Tests

Pro Day: 5.40 in the 40-yard dash … 1.95 10-yard dash … 3.11 20-yard dash … 4.98 20-yard shuttle … 7.94 three-cone drill … 25-inch vertical jump … 8'2" broad jump... Bench pressed 225 pounds 31 times

Injury Report: Reggie Stephens stepped into a starting role as a freshman at Iowa State and four years later he had started 36 consecutive games until he missed a contest during his senior season following an appendectomy.

Analysis

Positives: Durable, reliable lineman who played his best against top competition like Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh. Could play right guard or center in a power system (not zone blocking). Once he latches on, is difficult to move or disengage from. Natural leader.

Negative: Heavy feet, struggles to move laterally in pass protection. Needs help against quicker tackles and picking up blitzes. Catches rushers, does not attack. Looks lazy at times, hard to tell whether he does not hustle or is not just unable to move.

Strengths
Stephens' strength is his versatility. As a redshirt freshman in 2006 he started the last four games of the season at right guard. In 2007 he started all 12 games at left guard. In 2008 he started at both guard spots and in 2009 he even spent some time at the center position. He is an experienced player who can fill an important role off the bench in the interior of the offensive line for any NFL team. Stephens even earned some national recognition during his senior campaign and was an honorable mention on the All-Big 12 team.

Weaknesses
Stephens has gone under the radar for the most part due to the lack of a potent offense at Iowa State. While the 6-3, 333 pound Rowlett, Texas native has plenty of strength, his footwork is a concern. He will need to prove that he can compete day in and day out with the big boys if he wants to hear his name on draft day. His best chance to do that is if he can get invited to the NFL Combine and some of the events during Senior Week.

Pick Analysis: Stephens was an all-conference player in the Big 12, and is a good inline blocker, with impressive change of direction. He will provide quality depth to the Bengals on the interior of their offensive line.

Overview

The former Texas high school football, track and field and power-lifting star has been a stalwart for the Cyclones since stepping into the starting lineup at right guard with four games left in his redshirt freshman season.

Stephens moved over to the left guard spot for his sophomore campaign before playing both guard spots as a junior in 2008. His coaches moved him again before his senior year, asking him to play the pivot -- a move that helped the team become eligible for postseason play and win the Insight Bowl over Minnesota.

The 2008 and 2009 honorable mention All-Big 12 pick has impressed scouts with that versatility and unselfishness. Stephens may not win many foot races over 40 yards, but his relatively nimble feet at 334 pounds has also put him on NFL teams' radars as a solid late-round selection.

[3wt]

Really nice. Thanks for all the work! :tiger:

[Orange and Black Attack]

Amazing Stuff here. Thanks!

[Scarlet&Orange]

Really nice. Thanks for all the work! :tiger:

No Problem I enjoy doing it and it's nice to have most of the info ya need on a player in one area. Certainly would be nice to improve the way I do it a little more but it can get quite time consuming already. I'd like to have a key that explains peoples combine numbers to the average joe so they can better understand how those numbers translate to how talented a player really is. Most understand that a sub 4.4 forty time is elite speed, but that is only a partial indication of how good of a big play guy this player really is or more often than not isn't.

For example:
Jordan Shipley 4.52 40 yard dash (Pro Day)

Dezmon Briscoe 4.51 40 yd dash (Pro Day)

Let's assume for a second that those are both accurate times, so the average joe thinks Dez Briscoe is just as fast or if not, not far off. But that doesn't really give you an indication as to who is the bigger play guy because straight line speed isn't everything and it doesn't tell you is how they got there. What if it's only a 10 yard route? What if they have to run something other than a straight line route? Who is the better guy in those instances? Then we have to look at these other numbers.

Shipley 1.55 10-yard dash (measures your speed in the 1st 10 yards) & 6.92 three cone drill (measures how fast/quick/agile you are when you must turn)

Briscoe 1.60 10-yard dash & 7.10 three cone drill

So not only does Shipley beat Briscoe off the line with a faster burst but when they have to turn in anyway he gets even better. So in essence we have the bigger potentially faster WR who just doesn't stack up when it comes to production, because Shipley will get away from his defender more and therefore increase his odds of making a play.

The numbers aren't everything but understanding all of them and how they translate to ones game at the NFL level can give you a much more complete picture of the player. Case in point Andre Caldwell's numbers coming out of the draft (and supported by his scouting reports BTW) would tell you that if you want to make the most of his talents you don't put him in the slot where projected to be only adequate but put him on the outside where he can take advantage of his strengths and better hide his weaknesses (elite straight line speed, average to below quickness). Which is why I think we will see less of Caldwell in 2010 but he will be much more productive when he does play (he'll likely win the Chris Henry role with Shipley taking over in the slot where his game is a better fit).

[cinc4ever1]

A nice amount of info,and alot of great reads.I thank you for that.:thumbsup: