2009 Draft Player Profiles

[MVPalmer]

For current and future reference here is the scouting reports on all the players I could get. There are other scouting reports out there but this is a good place to get them from (Scouts ***). I'll post one player in each post.

Trait Scale
1 = Exceptional 2 = Above average 3 = Average 4 = Below average 5 = Marginal

1st Round #6 overall

Andre Smith OT Alabama

Overall Football Traits

Production 1 Started every game (49) of his three-year career at Alabama (2006-'08) prior to his suspension for the 2009 Sugar Bowl. A consensus All-American and Outland Trophy winner as a junior in 2008.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Adequate height for a tackle. Massive wide-body who could stand to lose a few pounds in the interest of improving his agility.

Durability 2 Some concern regarding potential weight issues. However, he never missed a game due to injury during three seasons as fulltime starter for the Crimson Tide.

Character 4 Had no off the field issues during vast majority of his playing career at Alabama and coaches/teammates speak highly of him as a person. But no player has come under more scrutiny than Smith during the pre-draft process. First, he has suspended for 2009 Sugar Bowl vs. Utah for improper dealings with an agent. Second, he showed up to the combine out of shape and unsure if he was to workout. Third, he chose not to workout and left the combine early while failing to announce it to his group leader.

Offensive Tackle specific Traits

Strength/Toughness 2 Massive OT prospect. Thickly built. Good upper-body strength and elite lower-body strength. Can create a new line of scrimmage in the run game and can anchor versus powerful bull rushers when set in pass pro. Rarely loses a battle at the point of attack. Plays with a mean streak at times but is a bit inconsistent with his motor.

Agility 3 Displays good initial quickness and agility for his size. Shuffles well laterally when coming out of his stance and when working in one direction (either right or left). But he struggles when asked to change directions. He will occasionally be a step late getting into position as a second-level blocker. He lunges a lot when moving forward and struggles to recover.

Awareness 2 Shows adequate-to-good awareness. Understands assignments and picks up the blitz consistently (from an awareness standpoint). If he misses an assignment it's almost always due to physical, not mental. He knows the angles and where he's supposed to be almost always. He will stick with a play and find someone to hit if the ball carrier changes direction back his way.

Pass Protection 3 Can anchor versus top bull rushers when he's set with leverage. Shows adequate quickness in his pass pro set. Usually gets in position to protect the edge initially, but doesn't show ideal mirror-and-slide skills. Struggles to adjust to quick second-move (See: first series versus Kentucky when working against #51). Falls off far too many blocks. Doesn't jar DE's with his hand punch as effectively as he should.

Run Blocking 1 Motor runs hot and cold but he can be overpowering at the point of attack when he wants to be. Takes solid angles and is almost always in position if the block is at the line of scrimmage. Shows good upper-body power and even stronger in the lower body. Drives defenders off the line of scrimmage. A small concern here is that he sometimes is a bit slow getting into position as a second-level run blocker.

Final Draft Day Analysis on the selection:

6. Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
What he brings: We feel Andre Smith is better suited to play right tackle; there are some concerns about his overall quickness, footwork and pass-protection skills. Still, Smith is the best run-blocker in this year's offensive tackle crop. Although we still believe Smith has some developing and maturing to do, he brings excellent value at this pick.

How he fits: Smith is a talented kid who may project best at right tackle, but may have to play on the left side because of need and where he was picked, He was a starter at Alabama from day one, but he needs to mature as a person. Smith is not a bad kid and has the physical ability to play a number of spots on the offensive line, including tackle and guard. Weight issues are a concern and his weight has ballooned at times in the past. We also have questions about whether the Bengals' locker room is a good fit for Smith -- a team with more leadership would have probably been a better fit. Smith was the best player at an urgent need for Cincy.

[MVPalmer]

2nd Round #38 overall


Scouting notes:

Maualuga shows elite explosiveness (Nov18)
Maualuga showed good recognition, did not hesitate when reacting to the play and got downhill extremely quickly in USC's win over Stanford. His explosiveness at the point of attack is elite. Maualuga is able to jolt blockers and run through ball carriers upon contact, and he is at his best when playing on the opponent's side of the line of scrimmage. However, Maualuga showed vulnerability in the open field, sometimes leaving his feet in an effort to make a tackle and missing the ball carrier. His over-aggressiveness can get him into to trouble as he has a tendency to overrun plays and allow runners to cut back. A perfect example came on Stanford's first possession of the game when Maualuga was unable to break down and contain Cardinal QB Tavita Pritchard, allowing Pritchard to cut back for a 40-yard gain and set up Stanford's first touchdown of the game.

Overall Football Traits

Production 2 2005: Maualuga appeared in 12 games recording 37 tackles including 4.5 TFL's. 2006-07: He appeared in all 26 games (22 starts) recording a total of 157 tackles, 15.5 TFL's, and eight sacks. 2008: Maualuga appears in and starts 12 out of 13 games registering 79 tackles, 2.5 TFL's, two interceptions, four pass break-ups, and one QBH. Earned first team-All-Pac Ten honors during the past three seasons and was selected as a unanimous first team All-American selection during his senior campaign in 2008.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Displays an outstanding combination of size and straight-line speed on film. Timed speed is not as good, although hamstring injury clearly affected his 40-yard dash result at the Combine.

Durability 4 Durability is a somewhat of a concern. Did not start versus Notre Dame in 2006 because of a left wrist injury. He sustained hip pointer versus Arizona State in 2007, which limited him versus Notre Dame. Entered the 2008 season with a broken finger. He missed the Oregon contest in 2008 after spraining his right knee the week prior against Oregon State. He also pulled up with a hamstring injury during his first attempt at the 40-yard dash at the Combine.

Character 4 He was arrested in November of 2005 for suspicion of misdemeanor battery following a fight he was involved in during a Halloween party. He turned himself into authorities and agreed to attend anger management and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, as well as perform community service. Father died of brain cancer two days prior to 2006 Rose Bowl. Maualuga was also disciplined for his involvement in an incident at a fraternity party in October of 2006. Was demoted to special teams versus Oregon State that season after he overslept a meeting.

Inside Linebacker specific Traits

Instincts/Recognition 3 Still is undisciplined at times. Not always great at playing within the scheme. He's improving in this area, though. Recognizes play action and reacts well.

Pursuit/Point of Attack 2 Pursuit angles are inconsistent. Otherwise, he is excellent in this area. He is a violent hitter with outstanding power at the point of attack. Down-hill aggressive thumper. Does a nice job of controlling and shedding blockers. Opens hips extremely well and changes directions instantly. Shows excellent overall range for his size.

Tackling 2 A knock-out artist. Will violently explode through ball carriers when given the opportunity. Only knock is that he will miss an occasional makeable tackles due to poor angles or leaving feet in an effort to deliver the big hit.

Pass Coverage 2 Has some stiffness in hips and will be limited in certain man-to-man coverage matchups in the NFL. Does a good job of looking up shallow crossers and disrupting their routes. Is able to sniff out and react to screens extremely well. Shows good ball skills.

Pass Rusher 2 Relentless and times stunts well. Displays adequate lower body strength and flashes the ability to collapse the pocket. Shows good closing speed.

Final Draft Day Analysis:

6. (38) Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
What he brings: There have been some character concerns about Maualuga, and he doesn't have the instincts of a Jerrod Mayo or a Patrick Willis. However, he is a wrecking ball of a middle linebacker. Maualuga is aggressive, plays downhill and doesn't shy away from contact. He's also a punishing tackler. Although he lacks the hip fluidity to stay with NFL backs in man coverage he can hold his own in zone coverage and is a strong interior pass-rusher.

What he brings: This is a nice value with the 38th pick for Cincy. This team needs an identity on defense and Maualuga will bring a winning attitude and passion to the organization. He will be paired with Keith Rivers to begin to form a nice, young linebacker corps. This team needs help on defense and Maualuga has decent value with this pick.

[MVPalmer]

3rd Round #70 overall


Scouting notes:

Range, quickness Johnson's strengths (Dec23)
Film of Georgia Tech's season-opening win over Jacksonville State shows Johnson using tremendous quickness to beat tackles off the edge, then using elite closing burst when he had a clear run at the quarterback. He also showed the instincts to recognize a screen pass and the range to get down the line and get in on the play.

Overall Football Traits

Production 2 Johnson appeared in 11 games during his true freshman season in 2005. He recorded one sack and forced a fumble on kickoff coverage that year. Johnson started one of the 12 games he appeared in during the 2006 season finishing with 34 total tackles, 25 unassisted tackles, six tackles-for-loss and five sacks. He also forced three fumbles and broke up two passes but missed the first two games of the season with an injury that year. (see durability) Johnson started one of the 13 games he appeared in during the 2007 season finishing with 21 total tackles, 11 unassisted tackles, six tackles-for-loss and four sacks. He also broke up one pass, forced three fumbles, recovered a fumble and blocked three kicks. Johnson started all 13 games of the 2008 season finishing with 46 tackles including 17.5 tackles-for-loss and nine sacks. He also broke up seven passes, recovered a fumble and forced three fumbles. Johnson earned first team All-ACC honors in 2008.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Tall and has above-average top-end speed for a 4-3 defensive end/3-4 outside linebacker but far too lean at this point.

Durability 3 2006: Misses the first two games of season with an injury. 2007: Doesn't participate in spring practices because of injuries.

Character 4 A management major and there have been no off-the-field incidents to our knowledge. However, work ethic and commitment to improving have been questioned at times. Did not attend 2008 Senior Bowl.

Defensive End specific Traits

Agility/Quickness 1 Explosive first step and changes directions well when attacking upfield. Fluid in space and excelled at cover drills at the Combine.
Strength/Toughness 4 Very good upper body strength and does a good job of extending long arms once locked on but shows marginal lower body strength on film. Though flashes the ability to deliver the big hit doesn't play with nearly enough of a mean streak. Takes too many plays off and mental toughness is a concern.

Instincts 4 Takes too long to locate the ball and gets caught too far upfield too much. Can get drawn off-sides by hard counts. Doesn't show a great understanding of blocking angles and can get sealed inside by tight ends blocking down. Too aggressive collapsing inside at times and can get caught out of position on bootlegs. Appears lost at times during 2008 Virginia Tech game.

Pass Rusher 1 Quick enough to turn the corner at the NFL level, he closes well and can deliver the big hit. Can set tackles up to the outside before redirecting inside and flashes an effective rip move. Has long arms, excellent leaping ability and can tip passes when doesn't get to the quarterback. Has some experience rushing the passer out of a two-point stance. (See 2008 Virginia Tech game) Doesn't an adequate job of driving legs but isn't a powerful bull rusher that can consistently collapse the pocket.

Run Stopper 3 Plays too high and gets driven off the ball too much. While has adequate bulk has a slender frame so there's reason to believe will still have problems anchoring against the run if moved to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Sideline-to-sideline run defender that takes adequate angles to the ball and shows great range at times but gears down too much. At times appears more interested in blindsiding offensive linemen than getting to the ball. (see first quarter of the 2007 Virginia game)

Final Draft Day Analysis:

6. (70) Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
What he brings: Johnson has first-round talent in terms of his ability to get to the quarterback. He's quick, has excellent closing speed and has great athleticism for a 6-foot-7 prospect, running the 40 in 4.75. However, he's very thin in the hips so he's going to have problems holding up against the run. More importantly, there are concerns about his work ethic and dedication to improving his game.

How he fits: Johnson was rated the No. 1 rising college senior by many scouting services entering the 2008 season. After a disappointing season his stock dropped, but there is no denying his rare athletic ability. There are some that question his physical and mental toughness. He is a boom-or-bust type prospect.

[MVPalmer]

3rd Round #98 overall


Scouting notes:

Injury behind Coffman (Nov25)
Coffman showed no lingering affects from a toe injury, catching six passes for 53 yards and two touchdowns in a loss to Kansas.

Overall Football Traits

Production 1 In his first three seasons (2005-'07), Coffman has played in 38 games  primarily as a rotating No. 2 TE with Martin Rucker (Browns)  and has notched 157 receptions for 1,672 yards and 20 scores. 2008: Leads the Tigers with 90 receptions for 987 yards and 10 TDs. Finishes his career as Division I record holder for receptions by a tight end (247).

Height-Weight-Speed 4 Good height and size potential, but lacks ideal bulk. Speed is below average, especially for an H-Back type.

Durability 4 Had surgery after the 2007-'08 Cotton Bowl to clean up bone spurs in his right ankle, which limited him late in the regular season and caused him to miss his only game (Big 12 Championship vs. Oklahoma in 2007) in three seasons. Battled turf toe throughout much of the 2008 season and broke one of his toes during the Alamo Bowl. Did not participate in the combine, as a result.

Character 1 Hard worker. Plays through pain. No off-the-field issues to our knowledge. Father, Paul Coffman, played TE in the NFL for 10 seasons.

Tight End specific Traits

Ball Skills 1 Hands are outstanding. A reliable target. Will make the tough catch in traffic. Can snatch the ball on the run and get upfield without losing much time in transition. Also has proven consistently capable of catching the ball thrown over his head.

Separation Skills 2 Spends most of his time working flexed out in the slot or split out wide, so still needs to learn how to release versus a LB in press technique from an in-line alignment. But he does display good initial quickness off the line of scrimmage for a tight end. Runs sharp, crisp routes. Knows how to read coverage and does a great job of finding soft spots in zone. Excellent on hot reads. Knows how to get open in a hurry in those situations.

Blocking 4 This is his biggest area of weakness. He's lean and has below average overall strength. Plays with a narrow base and really struggles to sustain blocks after locking on. Only positives are his mobility and effort, as he generally gets in good position and flashes a mean streak.

Toughness 2 He's tougher than expected. He's willing as a blocker and will get 'chippy' at times when challenged. He also is a fearless route runner and a tough to bring down after the catch.

Big-Play Potential 3 He's quicker than fast. Gets off the line quickly for a TE and occasionally will show the ability to sneak down the seam. In his defense, the TE does not run a lot of down-the-field type routes in Mizzou's offense. But the reality is his top-end speed is only adequate and he lacks the elusiveness/second-gear to break many long runs after the catch.

Final Draft Day Analysis:

34. (98) Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory selection)
The pick: Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
What he brings: Coffman's biggest weakness right now is his blocking but he works at it and he has the frame to improve in this area. Although he's not a guy who can stretch the field, he's a reliable short-to-intermediate target who flashes the ability to make spectacular catches and develop into a productive red-zone target.

How he fits: Coffman, who possesses outstanding hands, will provide another threat in Cincy's passing game along with Reggie Kelly and Ben Utecht. Cincinnati has established a nice trio of tight ends.

[MVPalmer]

4th round #106 overall:

Overall Football Traits

Production 1 2004: Arkansas red shirts Luigs. 2005-2007: Luigs starts all 37 games including 34 consecutive starts at center. Luigs wins the Rimington Trophy, which is awarded to the nation's most outstanding center by the Boomer Esiason Foundation. 2008: Luigs starts 12 games at center.

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

Durability 2 2005: Misses one game (Alabama) with a high ankle sprain.

Character 2 Member of Arkansas' Lon Farrell Academic Honor Roll for Fall 2006 and 2004-05 academic year. Named a Hard Working Hog for the 2004-05 and 2005-06 academic years.

Offensive Center specific Traits

Strength/Toughness 3 Gets adequate hand placement and has adequate upper body strength but doesn't always extend arms once locked onto the defender's frame. While flashes a mean streak, doesn't always finish blocks. Doesn't appear to have great lower body strength and legs can go dead on contact.

Agility 3 Moves well laterally and can hook defenders lined up over outside shoulder. Quick, shows adequate though not great body control in space and can adjust to the moving target in space but lacks elite foot speed and has some problems sustaining downfield blocks.

Awareness 1 Displays above-average football intelligence and one of the most efficient offensive linemen in class. Shows above-average instincts in pass protection.

Pass Protection 3 Keeps head on a swivel and does a good job of picking up stunts and blitzes. Stays active and shows above average mirror-and-slide skills. Has problems holding ground working against bull rushers and can get pushed back into the quarterback's lap if doesn't sink hips enough.

Run Blocking 3 Takes adequate angles to downfield blocks and flashes the ability to cover up linebackers. Rarely takes false steps and has the quick first step to beat defenders to the point of contact but far more effective when left uncovered than is working against two-gap nose tackles. Doesn't get great push and won't be able to drive nose tackles off the ball until/unless gets stronger in his lower body. Leans into bigger defenders and slides off too many blocks as a result.

Final Draft Day Analysis:

6. (106) Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Jonathan Luigs, C Arkansas
What he brings: Luigs possesses excellent instincts and awareness. He also displays above-average footwork and does a good job getting into strong initial position. However, we'd like to see him improve as a finisher.

How he fits: Center was a primary need after the departure of Eric Ghiaciuc in free agency. There are serious question marks with all current centers on the roster and Luigs was one of the higher-rated centers entering the 2008 season. He has been a consistent starter in the SEC for many years.

[MVPalmer]

5th Round #142 overall:
Kevin Huber

Overall Football Traits

Production 1 2004: Cincinnati red-shirted Huber. 2005: Huber averaged 33.2 yards per punt placing three out of five punts inside the opponent's 20-yard line. 2006-07: Averaged 47 yards per punts with a long of 62 yards and placed 20 of his 59 punts inside the opponent's 20 yard line. 2008: Averaged 45 yards per punt with a long of 64 yards and placed 24 of 60 punts inside the opponents' 20 yard line. Earns consensus All-American honors during the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Average size to go along with good overall speed.

Durability 1 Durability is not a concern, as he has yet to miss playing time due to injury.

Character 3 No off-the-field incidents we are currently aware of.

Final Analysis:

Huber possesses elite leg strength; he gets good distance and hang time. He also is accurate when placing the ball inside the opponent's 20-yard line.

NFL.com Analysis:

Overview
The arrival of new head coach Brian Kelly brought about a renaissance for the Bearcats' special teams. After patiently waiting for his opportunity, Huber was named the squad's starting punter for the 2007 campaign. He rewarded his coach for having faith in him, as he went on to not only lead the nation in gross punting (46.88-yard average), but also helped Cincinnati lead the major college ranks in net punting (40.21 average by Huber and 39.61 yards by the team).

With his stellar junior campaign under his belt, professional scouts were curious if Huber's performance was a one-shot affair. Throughout the 2008 season, he backed up his performance, as his 44.95-yard gross average ranked seventh-highest in the major college division. He also became the first player in Division I history to lead the nation in net punting average (2006-08) in three consecutive seasons.

Huber attended McNicholas (Cincinnati, Ohio) High School, playing football for head coach John Rodenburg. The three-time All-League selection was named the league's Punter of the Year as a junior and senior. In his final season, he helped the team gain a berth in the state playoffs.

In 2004, Huber enrolled at Cincinnati, earning Conference USA Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll recognition as both a true and redshirt freshman. He was one of 16 Bearcats to make his collegiate debut in the 2005 season opener vs. Eastern Michigan, but did not get into a game again until the season finale vs. Rutgers. He finished that year with a 35.7-yard average on six kicks, including three that were downed inside the 20-yard line.

Huber was relegated to understudy duties behind Brian Steel in 2006. His only action came vs. Western Michigan in the International Bowl. He made the most of that limited opportunity, as both of his punts were for 50 yards or longer, attaining a 50.5-yard average.

As a junior, Huber was a consensus All-American and unanimous All-Big East Conference selection. The Ray Guy Award finalist (nation's top punter) also garnered Big East Special Teams Player of the Year accolades. He punted 57 times for 2,672 yards, setting school season (46.88 avg) and game (59.7-yard average vs. Marshall) records while leading the nation in gross and net yard average. He also gained 12 yards on a rushing attempt from punt formation and recorded a tackle.

Huber continued his excellence as a senior. The Ray Guy Award semifinalist and All-American first-team choice ranked seventh in the nation with a 44.95-yard average on 60 punts and led the major college ranks with a 41.83-yard net average. He had 24 punts downed inside the 20-yard line, including 15 inside the 10-yard marker and seven that were placed inside the 5-yard line.

High School
Attended McNicholas (Cincinnati, Ohio) High School, playing football for head coach John Rodenburg...The three-time All-League selection was named the league's Punter of the Year as a junior and senior...In his final season, he helped the team gain a berth in the state playoffs.

Analysis
Positives: Left-footed punter, which can give return men fits because of the unusual spin on the ball. ... Has adequate height and has a stout, but not muscular, build. ... Has above-average leg strength. ... Sells out to tackle return men, although he doesn't have to do it that often. ... Improved his ability as a senior to get the ball to bounce straight up or softly inside the 10. ... Holds on placements, able to handle poor snaps.

Negatives: Slow three-step delivery (1.35 seconds), often with a stutter-step before receiving the snap, but has not had a punt blocked. ... Inconsistent hang-time because he does not turn the ball over or always square the ball. ... Many of his longer punts are line drives with around 3.5 seconds of hang-time, giving opponents great return chances. ... Only punted two years. ... Does not handle kickoffs.

Injury Report
No injuries reported.

Pick Analysis: The first punter off the board is an outstanding weapon as a directional punter. Huber has the ability to flip the field with his booming punts, and he will emerge as a viable weapon in the kicking game.

[MVPalmer]

6th Round #179 overall:


Scouting Notes:

Take not good in coverage (Dec23)
Trent is a good wrap-up tackler when playing the run but has serious limitations in coverage. He is seen on film being beaten cleanly by Notre Dame WR Golden Tate and lacking the recovery speed to make up ground. The bigger concern, though, is Trent's inability to open his hips and run with Tate and other wideouts.

Overall Football Traits

Production 2 2005-'07: Trent starts 29 of the 36 games he appears in accumulating 108 tackles, five tackles-for-loss, four interceptions, 14 passes broken up and two fumble recoveries. 2008: Harris starts all 12 games accumulating 41 tackles, 2.5 tackles-for-loss, three interceptions and two passes broken up.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Excellent height but a little too lean at this point and top-end speed is just adequate.

Durability 2 2006: Misses one game with an unspecified injury. 2005: Misses Alamo Bowl with unspecified injury.

Character 3 Father Phillip Trent played football at Nebraska. Shared U-M's Outstanding Defensive Contributor award with Shawn Crable in 2007.

Defensive Corner specific Traits

Recognition Skills/Toughness 3 Shows above-average awareness in zone coverage and does a good job of reacting to crossing routes. Excellent upper body strength but can get pushed around by bigger receivers. Takes too long to recognize run.

Closing Burst 3 Adequate closing burst but gives receivers too much of a cushion and a step late at times as a result. Doesn't show a second gear when tracking the ball downfield and lacks ideal recovery speed.

Fluidity 4 Does an adequate job of opening hips when forced to turn and run but not fluid getting in and out of breaks and going to have some problems matching up in man coverage in the NFL. Inconsistent footwork, he loses balance at times and vulnerable to double moves.

Ball Skills 3 Very good leaping ability and has long arms so can compete for jump balls. Moved from receiver to corner in 2005 and flashes big-play ability but lacks ideal ball skills and drops some passes that should catch.

Run Support 3 Breaks down in the open field and wraps up on contact but not going to deliver many big hits. Takes too long to shed blocks.

Final Analysis:

Trent possesses an excellent blend of size and speed and above-average athleticism. However, we have concerns about his overall toughness and discipline with his play.

[MVPalmer]

6th Round #209 overall:
Bernard Scott

Overall Football Traits

Production 1 2003: Scott enrolls at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and is red shirted. 2004: Scott transfers to Division II Central Arkansas and rushes for a total of 1,026 yards and 11 touchdowns on 163 carries. 2005: Central Arkansas dismisses him from the team and he doesn't play football in the fall. (see character) 2006: Scott enrolls at Blinn Junior College in Texas and rushes for a total of 1,892 yards and 27 touchdowns. 2007: Scott enrolls at Division II Abilene Christian and he starts in all 13 games. He rushes for a total of 2,165 yards and 35 touchdowns on 251 carries. Scott catches 46 passes for a total of 565 yards and four touchdowns and he completes the only pass he throws for a 66-yard gain. 2008: Scott starts in all 12 games rushing for a total of 2,156 yards and 28 touchdowns on 266 carries. He catches 47 passes for a total of 826 yards and six touchdowns and his only pass attempt lands incomplete.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Adequate height, bulk and top-end speed.

Durability 3 Durability is not a concern to our knowledge.

Character 5 2008: Finishing 18 month of probation for giving false information to a police officer during a traffic stop. 2005: Central Arkansas dismisses Scott from the team for striking a coach who was trying to break up a fight during a spring practice. 2002: High School dismisses him from team before senior season for involvement in an off-campus fight.

Running Back specific Traits

Competitiveness 2 Runs hard, drives legs and fights for yards after contact. Stronger than size suggests, lowers shoulder into defenders and finishes runs. Needs to learn to get what he can when hole isn't there but there's also a lot to like about desire to make something happen. Doesn't always practice sound ball security and can put it on the ground.

Vision 3 Keeps head up, reads blocks well and generally sees cutback lanes. Appears hesitant at times, can dance in the hole and can wait too long to get north-south when trying to turn the corner.

Explosiveness 2 Quick enough to turn the corner and shows a second gear when gets into the open field but lacks breakaway speed.

Balance/Change-of-Directions 3 Shifty open-field runner and can make first defender miss but lacks elite elusiveness.

Passing Game 2 Makes routine catches look routine, fluid turning upfield and can make the first defender miss after the catch. Isn't big enough to hold ground when asked to help out in pass protection and doesn't attack pass rusher's legs out from under him.

Final Anlysis:

Although he weighs in at just 200 pounds, Scott runs much stronger than his size. He is a shifty open-field runner with enough burst to turn the corner. He needs to get north and south more; he tends to dance too much.

[MVPalmer]

7th Round #215 overall:


Scouts Analysis (as a Running Back)

Vakapuna is a big, tough insider runner who can pick up yards after contact. However, he's lacking in terms of top-end speed and elusiveness to make defenders miss.

NFL.com Analysis

Overview
Vakapuna was recruited by Nebraska, Utah, Oregon, Utah State and Washington, but the Salt Lake native chose to stay home and attend BYU.

After redshirting in 2002, Vakapuna had 30 carries in eight games in 2003 before serving a two-year church mission in Carlsbad, Calif. He returned in 2006, appearing in 12 of 13 games in 2006. He battled through a broken hand in 2007 to carry the ball 73 times and serve as an important blocker.

He wasn't as involved in the running game last season, carrying just 54 times while adding 10 receptions. But he was a valued blocker in front of Harvey Unga.

"I think Harvey should be taking Fui out to dinner, or to lunch once in a while," said quarterback Max Hall. "Because right now Fui is playing very unselfish and doing all of the little things right to make not only the run game, but the pass protections and everything, work. You'll see in some of the games he'll take on his blocker, knock him down and then go to someone else -- and get another block. And then Harvey will run for 15 more yards."

Vakapuna has been limited by a variety of injuries the past few seasons (hand, ankle, hamstring), but will be given a look as a blocking back after performing well in agility and strength drills. He has been compared to former BYU teammate Naufahu Tahi, who is currently with the Minnesota Vikings.

Analysis

Positives: Typical Polynesian build with the bulk to handle NFL punishment. Good vision to locate and get through the hole. Surprising lateral agility to make defenders miss in the open field. Bullish interior runner who can drag tacklers for extra yardage. Good lower, leg drive. Flashes soft hands out of the backfield as a receiver. High effort player.

Negatives: Lacks the agility and straight-line speed to be a true running back at the next level. Has never been the bell-cow back and will only be successful at the next level as part of a rotation. Inconsistent effort and technique as a blocker. Has struggled with durability throughout his career. Enters the NFL older than most (24) due to time served on an LDS mission.

Injury Report
2008: Slowed by a hamstring injury in fall camp. ... Missed the season opener due to academic work.

2007: Played in 10 games, but was limited at times by a broken hand.

2006: Bothered by an ankle injury late in the season, but played in 12 of 13 games.

Pick Analysis:Vakapuna is a big, strong running back. He does not have as much quickness or change-of-direction skill, but he's a situational running back that can be productive at the goal line. The Bengals locked in on Vakapuna at the BYU Pro Day and then followed through with the pick.

[MVPalmer]

7th Round #249 overall:
Clinton McDonald

Scouts Analysis:

McDonald has an adequate first step and the closing burst to be effective in pursuit. However, he lacks prototypical size to consistently anchor on the interior and needs to play with lower pad level when taking on double-teams.

NFL.com Analysis:

Overview
McDonald built on his successful 2007 season (55 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, four sacks) by starting his senior season strong, getting attention from scouts and media outlets across the country. The first-team All-Conference USA pick (39 tackles, seven sacks) hit a snag, when he was injured against Louisville midway through the season. McDonald's build, athletic testing, and scouts' reviews of early season film will likely cause his stock to rise.

High School
Played for Coach Johnny Watson at Jacksonville High...Lettered three years in football...Named to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette 5-A top prospect list...Helped squad to a 7-4 record and an appearance in the state playoffs...Was a two-time all-conference honoree...Chosen as 5-A Outstanding Lineman...Also selected to the 5-A All-State team...Holds the school record in the fire clean at 325 pounds...Talented athlete who also lettered in basketball and threw the shot put in track.

Analysis
Positives: Wide-chested with strong builds in the upper and lower body. ... Good, not great, first step off the ball. ... Has very good straight-line speed to chase down backs down the line and from behind. ... When lined up in a three-technique, he shows a real burst off the ball and a nice spin move off either shoulder. ... Works hard as a pass rusher if he sees even a slight opening. ... Has a strong punch but needs to use it more often. ... Has the strength to hold off linemen with one shoulder and stay upright when slanting or in the three-technique spot.


Negatives: Short and a bit smaller than scouts prefer for nose tackle, but adequate for a three-technique. ... Can be engulfed and pushed back by larger guards. ... Stays upright against double teams, but usually only gets off to make tackles five or six yards downfield. ... Gets a little push into the pocket, but usually gets stopped by a good anchor when bull-rushing. ... Must improve his hand technique to get off blocks inside. ... Does not hustle or chase as much as you'd think given his athleticism. ... Will whiff in the backfield but has good change-of-direction skills to recover. ... Six of his seven sacks in 2008 came against Arkansas State and UAB, two squads without a lot of cachet with scouts. ... Medical report on his severely sprained left ankle is important in determining his final grade.

Pick Analysis: McDonald shot up draft boards and into draft consideration after an outstanding workout at Memphis' pro day. His athleticism gives Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer something to work with.

[MVPalmer]

7th Round #252 overall
Freddie Brown

Scouts analysis

Brown possesses excellent size and good overall ball skills. He also flashes the ability to make the tough catch. However, he lacks the top-end speed to stretch the field and needs some refining with his overall route-running.

NFL.com Analysis

Overview
NFL fans might not be familiar with his name, but Alabama fans know all too well who Freddie Brown is after he closed his career with 12 catches for 125 yards in the Utes' upset of the Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl.

Brown contributed for three years as a reserve in Utah's prolific offense (38 catches, 458 yards from 2005-2007) before becoming the possession receiver safety valve for quarterback Brian Johnson as a senior. Brown led the Utes with 77 catches for 900 yards and seven touchdowns in 2008.

He redshirted in his only season at Citrus College before going to Utah.

While Brown can play multiple receiver positions and is strong after the catch, he lacks great speed and must catch the ball more securely to make an NFL roster.

Junior College
Redshirted at Citrus College in 2004.

High School
At Damien High (Calif.), he was first-team all-league in both football and basketball ... lettered three times in both sports ... 45 catches for 685 yards and 5 touchdowns as a senior in 2003 ... set the school record for longest reception (97 yards) ... career numbers were 61 receptions, 895 yards and 6 touchdowns ... Damien High won back-to-back league titles (2002-03) ... honor roll student all four years.

Analysis
Positives: Tall with a strong upper body build and long arms. Has the size to beat the jam. Uses his frame to shield defenders on slants and crossing routes. Fights for the ball in the air and for extra yardage after initial contact, especially against smaller corners. Equally effective when lining up on the slot or outside. Separates from defenders on jump balls using his height and length. Works to get open if his quarterback scrambles. Able to make a quick move after the catch to free himself from a cornerback.

Negatives: Very inconsistent hands; will pluck one ball away from his frame and then body-catch or drop the next. Below-average straight-line speed; fails to break away from corners or safeties down the sideline. Loses balance when trying to make a move in the open field. Product of a spread system. Generally a tough receiver, but will hear footsteps over the middle.

Injury Report
No significant injuries reported.

Pick Analysis: Brown lacks experience but has some upside going into Cincinnati with the unstable wide receiver situation there. He is a tall possession receiver who's not afraid to go over the middle. He can go up and get it, but he doesn't have top-flight speed. He really broke out and became the go-to guy in his senior season

[CaptainCanada]

Great, thread, I appreciate it! My only concern with Rey was echoed in the article, he's extremely aggressive on the field, but that aggression can be his downfall.

[ochocinco=cincy]

I posted a thread just after the draft, not nearly as indepth as yours, and I was asking how people felt that we drafted 3 guys early with character concerns. Concerns meaning they had some issues but nothing major. I was jumped all over about it. Everybody was quick to dispell any such notation. They would argue that Andre just had a misunderstanding, that there were no issues ever with Rey or Johnson.

I think the concerns are very minor but you have to take into account that we don't have the greatest management of our players off the field. How big of a factor do you think this could be in the near future? Could we be looking at another Henry/Thurman ordeal or do you think it will not amount to much?

Very good thread by the way.

[MVPalmer]

Additional information can be found thru these links:

Click on players name (Combine Results are a seperate link off of each players page found next to picture, directly under the personal information, below school):

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2009/tracke...team-input:cin

[MVPalmer]

Originally Posted by CaptainCanada

Great, thread, I appreciate it! My only concern with Rey was echoed in the article, he's extremely aggressive on the field, but that aggression can be his downfall.

No problem I wanted a place that had this information so we could reference it in the future. I would ask that it be archived when the traffic for it falls off in a couple of weeks or so (hopefully).

Yeah Rey will quickly learn that this is the NFL and missing one tackle could very well mean a TD, he is no longer on the most dominant defense he can play with.

[MVPalmer]

Originally Posted by ochocinco=cincy

I posted a thread just after the draft, not nearly as indepth as yours, and I was asking how people felt that we drafted 3 guys early with character concerns. Concerns meaning they had some issues but nothing major. I was jumped all over about it. Everybody was quick to dispell any such notation. They would argue that Andre just had a misunderstanding, that there were no issues ever with Rey or Johnson.

I think the concerns are very minor but you have to take into account that we don't have the greatest management of our players off the field. How big of a factor do you think this could be in the near future? Could we be looking at another Henry/Thurman ordeal or do you think it will not amount to much?

Very good thread by the way.

I honestly don't know what to make of them I mean I have my own opinion but it's only an opinion. I do feel that it's overblown a bit by some of the media because of the Bengals track record. Basically I see a whole bunch of young guys coming into a much better locker room than years past, despite what the national media says about it. Think about it only Henry, Chad and Levi have any reason not to be positive influences. And Henry seems to have at least turned one corner in his maturity and Chad has never really been a bad influence just a distraction at worst which only leaves Levi who might be a negative influence due to bitterness. And I think everyone expects him to be gone before he has a chance to poison the well.

The way I see it Rey has nothing but positive guys around him outside of the playing field in Rivers, Peko, Fanene, Dhani etc. Andre would likely be hanging with guys like Collins, Whit, Luigs, Bobbie. IDK it just seems like they have the environment to do right if they want to. Besides I get the feeling that they have done some growing up and not just because they say so, but more because they have stayed out of trouble for quite some time. I see no reason not to just accept them for who they are currently and move on. The one I do worry about is Andre but not that I expect him to get into any trouble just that he has a tough time staying in good shape.

[ochocinco=cincy]

Originally Posted by MVPalmer

I honestly don't know what to make of them I mean I have my own opinion but it's only an opinion. I do feel that it's overblown a bit by some of the media because of the Bengals track record. Basically I see a whole bunch of young guys coming into a much better locker room than years past, despite what the national media says about it. Think about it only Henry, Chad and Levi have any reason not to be positive influences. And Henry seems to have at least turned one corner in his maturity and Chad has never really been a bad influence just a distraction at worst which only leaves Levi who might be a negative influence due to bitterness. And I think everyone expects him to be gone before he has a chance to poison the well.

The way I see it Rey has nothing but positive guys around him outside of the playing field in Rivers, Peko, Fanene, Dhani etc. Andre would likely be hanging with guys like Collins, Whit, Luigs, Bobbie. IDK it just seems like they have the environment to do right if they want to. Besides I get the feeling that they have done some growing up and not just because they say so, but more because they have stayed out of trouble for quite some time. I see no reason not to just accept them for who they are currently and move on. The one I do worry about is Andre but not that I expect him to get into any trouble just that he has a tough time staying in good shape.

I agree that the team as a whole has seemed to stay on the up-and-up, aside from Leon we haven't really had any run-ins with the law. Rey is probably the only one I question about being able to stay out of trouble, I think he needs to mature off the field the most. Smith and Johnson seem to be good guys with work ethic concerns and I really feel that they will squash any doubters.

[Howie]

According to the rankings the two guys in question on work ethic score a 1 and 2 for production. Production is all that matters to me.