Top Underrated Players entring the NFL Draft

Article by Ian Hughes

We know who the superstars are in the upcoming draft. I have covered those that I think will be busts and/or Overrated. Now it’s time to start looking at those under the radar guys, those that are not being considered as highly as some of their peers. So here are my guys that we should be talking about more than we actually are by Position.

QB: Dak Prescott, Mississippi State

Was one of the hot QBs coming into the season, but poor play around him has really hampered his Draft stock. He is a durable player that I expect to surprise any team that picks him up in the 2^nd or 3^rd rounds. To me, teams should really be looking at him at the bottom of the 1^st. Should be a better player than Paxton Lynch straight out the gate, and could prove to be better in the long term as well. His slide could see him end up in a better situation than some of the top picks that could help his chances.

Kenneth Dixon, RB Louisiana Tech

RB: Kenneth Dixon, Louisiana Tech

This guy has scored more times than any other Running Back in NCAA Div. 1 history, yet here we are looking at a Mid-round pick. He can do it all. He can run inside, outside, catch out of the backfield and protect your QB. Yet scouts mark him down for being a physical runner. Workouts didn’t really help him as he lacks ‘Home Run’ speed. I would be looking to take him in the 2^nd round, but there is a good chance he is still waiting for him name to be called when they start the 3^rd round.

WR: Sterling Shepard, Oklahoma

Are you guys kidding me. This is one of the smoothest route runners going. Forget his size or his speed. Has anyone watched the likes of Julian Edelman play the slot position? Sterling Shepard is a STARTING SLOT in year 2. And at the WR position, it’s the second year you’re looking at. The position is not conducive with starting a lot as a rookie. He should be hearing his name back end of the 1^st to the top of the 2nd, but he could be waiting a bit longer because of the search for that bigger, faster #1 WR.

TE: N/A

I feel the TE position has been picked apart very well. There isn’t a lot of talent there and the value and type of player depends a lot from team to team.

Offensive Line: Nick Martin, OG/C, Notre Dame

Has a second round grade but I think he should be going late in the 1^st round. The versatile Interior Lineman can fill a slot straight away. It seems foolish to me to not pick him if there was a hole on my line. Will help a team somewhere get their best combination on the field. There hasn’t been much talk about the line position in general outside of Tunsil.

Kevin Dodd, DL Clemson

Defensive Line: Kevin Dodd, Clemson

The Depth at this position is outrageous. The only real stand out underrated guy in the group is Dodd. Yes, he is raw. Yes, there is work to be done. But he was a real handful in every game I watched. Relentless motor that will make DL coaches rave for him. He should be going in the 1^st round, maybe in place of his Clemson teammate, Lawson.

LB: Tyler Matakevich, Temple

A Tackling Machine. This guy’s name is constantly coming up when watching Temple, and even in the Senior Bowl. It’s the measurables that are holding him back. Teams tend to fall in love with the stopwatch times and the drills in shorts this time of year. But the moment you see this guy in pads you know he can play. Shame he won’t get the draft slot he really deserves.

CB: Kendall Fuller, Virginia Tech (Another Fuller)

Underrated because of his projected scheme at the next level. Here is the best Tampa 2 corner in the draft. Physical player that wants to be involved in the game any way he can. He wants to make every play he can, leads him to be a bit of a gambler but hey, there have been a few gamblers in the NFL that have done very well. Size isn’t great, but hey the kid plays. I don’t think I have heard his name in draft conversations yet.    

Safety: Keanu Neal, S, Florida

I have his as the second best Safety in the draft behind Ramsey. But he still isn’t expected to be picked before the 2^nd round. You’d think with the increased use of Nickel packages, that this big hitting safety with good instincts would be someone everyone hopes slides to them after pick 15. It’s not like he’s immobile or a liability in coverage. Yet there will be teams that turn him down twice, maybe 3 times if you listen to some pundits. Outrageous.

Possible 2016 Draft Busts

Article by Ian Hughes

Every year we get those prospects that look great as a 1^st Round pick, but a few years later we look back and think about how wrong we got it. Teams will always flirt with the line when it comes to ‘High Ceiling/Low floor’ guys.

Everyone want to draft the next best thing, and that can come with huge risks. J’Marcus Russel being the most famous draft bust in recent memory. The jury is still out on the likes of Jedeveon Clowney and Dion Jordan as they are still with their original teams and can turn it around. For Johnny Manziel though, we can safely say he has fell into the bust category for the Cleveland Browns.

So who out of this year’s group is most likely to become the next big bust?

Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss

Of me, Treadwell could be one of those caution stories we here for years to come about selecting a WR high in a poor receiving class. This guy is getting a lot of the talk when it comes to the WR positon witch is slowly inflating his stock, but I feel there is a big risk in taking him High in the 1^st (Which is where he is projected to go). WR’s always come out of the blocks slow because of the mental aspect of the position going from NCAA to NFL. All the route adjustments might be different, there will be a lot more plays to learn, All the Corners will be better than most they faced before etc., etc. But he worries me with his concentration, Speed and Release. Had problems making some catches that required focus to pull in during his last year. He is definitely not the fastest guy going, couple that with his problems getting off the line against Press. He could have a real tough time against the longer, more physical corners playing in the NFL. All that being said, there is no reason why he couldn’t be a strong NFL WR. But the Risk is very high if he can’t push his game to the next level.

Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis

This guy could be one of the next quality QBs in the NFL. Has everything you want physically from someone in the Position. Has the height, frame and arm to be successful. However, he is extremely raw. Never played under-center before. This guy could end his career in 4 years’ time never having took a snap in a meaningful game. The Floor is so low it scares me, but his ceiling is high enough for teams to float his name around as the 1^st Round winds down.

Miles Jack, LB, UCLA

I hate myself for including Jack in this little list. He is such a great player. I would have said he was one of the surest picks in the draft if it wasn’t for 1 thing. He can run, has great ball skills, scheme flexible, a bit small but physical enough to deal with it. The screaming problem??? The fact he is coming off a serious knee injury. Yes, the Medicals have come back ok, but you never know with these things. I really hope he plays for a Decade and lights the league on fire. But you never know how injures, especially knee injuries, will effect a player. Physically and Mentally. He might look great out on the field in shorts, but how is he going to do in pads with big NFL linemen looking to knock his socks off?    

Who should Trade to get a better Draft spot?

Article by Ian Hughes

One of the most exciting/unpredictable things that can happen during Draft season is the trade of Draft Picks. They become more and more valuable as the weeks and days count down to the main event. It’s so hard to judge who will move and where they want to move to. Draft Boards differ from one team to the next.

One team might think their guy will fall to them at the bottom of a round, where another team above them feel the need to jump to the top of the round to get the same guy. I always like the philosophy of sticking with your pick, or gain as many picks as possible. Trading up to jump a team can guarantee getting your guy, but it can cost you a fortune in picks. Just ask the Redskins, who gave up 3 years’ worth of drafts to jump and get RG3, and look where he is now…

These are my teams that might consider actively changing their Draft spot in the 1^st round.

LA Rams, #15:

The LA Rams are the first of the QB needy teams that aren’t in position to have a shot at the top 2 Passers on most Draft Boards. #15 isn’t the worst spot to be coming from but I don’t see them getting all the way into the Top 5. The target will be to get above the Eagles at #8, maybe even the 49ers at #7. This leave the Ravens as their only real trade partner. Ravens might be willing, but they will take some persuading. You’ll need to get them to turn down a possible starting OT or DE.

New York Jets, #20:

This is a real interesting situation for the Jets. They are right up against the Cap ceiling, to the extent that right now they would be able to sign their Draft picks in their current slots. So they have a lot of shuffling to do, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see them slide out of #20 to save some money. They are in the right position for the second tier QB market but not really in position for a trade for that position. Where they do sit nicely, is the Corner market. With Pittsburgh picking #25 and the likes of Kansas City, Seattle and Carolina all projected to be in the Cornerback market. Someone could make the jump to #20 to get ‘dibs’.

Green Bay Packers, #27:

Here is a good one for you. Green Bay need help. They have been carried by Aaron Rodgers recently without really protecting him. They could do with both a young pass catcher and OL help. It might be hard to get into the low teens to compete for with the Lions, ‘Phins and Raiders for one of the promising Tackles. It would be more reasonable for them to get to the front of the line for a Wide out. Buffalo could be a possible partner at #19 with their expected pick being at a very deep position. 

Chicago Bears, #11:

My Chicago Bears are currently picking at the #11 slot. They have been very clever in Free Agency, something GM Ryan Pace has been very wary of. He has gone out and made sure that he doesn’t have to draft a ‘NEED’ with his top pick. This makes them a prime mover in the Trade market. The main position needs are Defensive line and Safety. DL is very deep with no real big talents expected to be on the board at #11. There is only one nailed on 1^st round Safety and he is going in the first five picks. So the Bears have 2 options open to them. Either Jump up into the expensive picks and go after the likes of Ramsey and Buckner, or trade down and stash some picks to help the re-building process that they are currently working through.

Denver Broncos, #31:

The Broncos currently have the last pick of the 1^st round. They have a very obvious need at the QB position after the loss of Brock Osweiler to the Texans. #31 could be far too late for the QB they want. It’s would take a real big jump for them to get safely back into the market but if John Elway thinks there is a guy worth it, I can see him pulling the trigger on a big trade. They are still in the Championship window and should be for the next couple of years. They have all the pieces in all the right places, a young QB with plenty of potential could see them in the hunt while the team is still intact. Then carry them while they restock for another run.

The Big Trade I would love to See but is compete madness???

The New York Jets to send the 20^th pick, 2017 1^st round pick, 51^th pick, 2017 2^rd round pick and the 83^rd pick to the San Diego Chargers for the 3^rd Pick and the 66th pick.

This would be pure madness but help both teams. The Jets are right in the window to go to the Super Bowl. Yes, they are tight on the Cap, but that is fixable by moving around money on some expensive contracts. Jumping all the way to #3 would give them the best of all world. They could go DE and Buckner making Wilkerson and his Tag money expendable. They could go Safety and take Ramsey, filling an area of need in an otherwise solid secondary. They could even go QB if they don’t get Fitzpatrick or another QB between now and the draft. OT is even on the cards. San Diego want everything. So why wouldn’t they want to amass 3 extra picks at the business end of a draft over the next 2 years? Maybe the value isn’t quite there with the picks I put up, but I don’t think I am far off.

Top 5 Overrated players in this year's Draft

Article by Ian Hughes

Every years there is a risk of drafting a Bust. A player that seems to be the next big thing, instant help, a future Hall of Famer or something like that. Then they get to the NFL and they just don’t perform up to that high expectation.

Here is my list of players that I think won’t meet the expectations of scouts.

1.       Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State

Every year it seems like the next great pass rusher is hitting the NFL. This year, people are looking at Joey Bosa to be that guy. He has the frame. 6’6 and plenty of weight. But there are some little things on tape that bother me. Firstly, he rarely lines up against the best OT’s in the NCAA. And when he did play against them, he found himself blocked with relative ease. Secondly, He is and effort player. He doesn’t always look exactly smooth getting to the QB. Now I wouldn’t hold this against him, but for the fact he’s motor isn’t always running. Those 2 things are enough for me to stay away from this Top 5 ranked prospect.

2.       Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis

There are Scouts out there that have Paxton Lynch as their 3^rd QB in this year’s draft. This wouldn’t normally bother me. On a Draft board. There will be teams that will be high on this guy because of the potential. But 3^rd? really. This guy could easily fail as an NFL QB. Footwork issues, Coming out of an Air-Raid/QB friendly system, lacks ball location… the list goes on. But all scouts see is what he could be. Not what he’ll likely be, a Career back-up that could never quite make it stick as a starter.

3.       Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson

This is a feeling pick here at the 3 spot. Clemson were a very good football team last season and I feel like Alexander was one of the bigger winners when it comes to Draft rankings. He’s under sized, footwork is ropey at times and his production was very, very low. Zero INT’s in the last 2 years. I like to see production from corners, its shows ball skills and ability to be around the football. That and the fact he didn’t take part in the Combine workouts leads me to question what I might be getting from a CB that is expected to go before the later parts of the 1^st round.

4.       Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia

So, I have seen Mock Drafts with Floyd being selected inside the Top 20. I just don’t understand why. This guy is projected to be a 3-4 OLB but is built like a WR. Very Slim, little play strength. Looks pretty useless at setting edges and defending the run. When it comes to the Front 7, I put a lot of value in how many downs they can be on the field for. Looking at Floyd, I only see him as a Situational Pass Rusher. That limits his value in my eyes. And I don’t think he’s a going to be a great one either, so for him to be as high at #20 seems strange. Maybe teams see something else but he is a second day guy to me.

5.       Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State (If he is selected as a Corner)

I am putting Ramsey at 5 only if the team picking him thinks he is a corner. As a Safety, he is one of the best guys in the draft and would take him straight away if the fitted my organisation. But as a Corner, I think Ramsey will be a big bust. Has the size scout are looking for now, and is a great athlete. But he can be very stiff in close quarters action. Not very consistent with run responsibilities. He just screams to me as a Tree Safety, but with the value placed on a true shutdown corner, I won’t surprise me for a team to take a shot at him there and for it to backfire awfully.

2016 Team of Free Agents - Special Teams

Article by Ian Hughes

There is only one group left to pick. The Specials. So let not over think this one and get out of here with a decent unit.

Kicker

Starter: Adam Vinatieri

Vinatieri has been one of the best kickers in the NFL for what seems like a lifetime. Known for kicks in clutch situations, why would you want anyone else as your kicker.

Back-Up: Greg Zuerlein

Now, I have been very clever. Because of how I have structured my roster I have found myself with a spare space or 2. So I am going to stash some extra Specialists. Zuerlein will be my stashed kicker. Greg the Leg can help me in situations I think Vinatieri’s leg its quite enough. That and Kick-offs. Plus did I mention Vinatieri’s old.

Punter

Starter: Shane Lechler

Lechler is another one of those guys that have been around forever. Starting to diminish in the production columns but you can’t put a price on experience at the punter position. They tend to hold on FG and PATs. I would rather take an experience guy that has enough leg, than a rookie that can kick out the stadium. That’s just me.

Long Snapper

Starter: Morgan Cox

Yes, Long Snapper is a position too. I don’t always pick one, and I could have left it as Tyler Clutts who is down on my RB list has Long Snapped in the NFL under emergency circumstances. But taking this seriously, I decided to select one. This year was an easy selection, as Cox was a Pro Bowl selection that has ended up without an extension.

Top 5 Instant Starters at NFL Level

Article by Ian Hughes

With Draft Boards starting to look like the finished article. It’s time for teams to look at value. What are guy’s worth to the organisation? One of the questions going round the scouting rooms is, ‘What can this guy give us Week 1?’

Personally, I don’t like this question. I come from the ‘best guy available’ school of thought. I don’t care what he can give me straight, what I want to know is who he can be going forward. With that being said, a lot of teams go into the draft hamstrung by needs with little choice but to draft players to fill them. So let’s get to it, the Top 5 Guys who you could see in a starting line-up Week 1.

 

1.       Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State

This is a no brainer. The Running back position is one of those positions where football instinct can get you a long way. If Elliott can show a coaching staff he has it, he could leap frog any pencilled in starter. The tape is great, the combine was good enough. He just needs to show he can do it all at the NFL level and not become the Trent Richardson.

2.       Jack Cronklin, OT, Michigan State

Cronklin has a great advantage in my eyes over the other top tackles in this Draft. That some teams might project him as a Right Tackle early in his career. This is what could make him one of the better rookie starters next year. He should be too good for Right Tackle but if he ends up on a Roster with an established Left Tackle, it would be very hard to keep him out of the other Tackle spot.

3.       Keanu Neal, Safety, Florida

Neal is one of the best Safeties in the draft. And his number 1 advantage to beating out a veteran, Versatility. Can play Centre Field as a Free Safety, best when playing the Down Safety in a Cover 3 style defence. Has the coverage skills to match up in the slot or on TEs, and is the Hammer not the Nail in the run game. With the Nickle Defence taking a bigger role in the modern game, Neal looks to see plenty snaps weather he is named a starter or not.

4.       Nick Martin, OG/C, Notre Dame

Anyone starting to see the pattern here? Another versatile guy on my list. Martin can play either Guard or Center. With Pre-Season being what it is, and Martins ability to play anywhere in the middle of the line, Martin could easily find himself starting in Week 1 either winning the job outright or being the 5^th guy that makes the best unit.

5.       Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State

This might surprise some of you but if the draft goes Cook’s way, he could find himself starting Week 1 for one of 3 teams. The guy knows how to look after a game and keep his team in it by limiting the mistakes. By no stretch is this a slam dunk, but I see him possibly being another Teddy Bridgewater. The problem is, only 3 teams are really searching for a QB, out of 32. And there is every chance that another team takes him to stash away for a rainy day.

Honourable Mentions

Jeremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss

Best player in the draft in my opinion, but playing at that Left Tackle spot can be very hard for a rookie and I don’t see him at the Right tackle spot. It all about holding up for him in his rookie year.

Jalen Ramsey, Safety, Florida State

You’ll see I’ve listed him at Safety and not Corner. I think that’s where the problem will lie for Ramsey in his rookie year. He could find himself playing out of position and really struggling. If he does find his way to Safety for a Week 1 start, he could open a few eyes. Lack of picks at the NCAA level might be a sign of things to come…

Andrew Billings, Nose Tackle, Baylor

There aren’t too many true Nose Tackles knocking around. Billings is one. A bit short, a bit raw and struggle a bit getting after the passer. But if he ends up at the right team, he will turn heads in the middle of a 3-4 DL.

Ryan Kelly, Center, Alabama

Best Center in the Draft. Normally these guys don’t start straight out the bat, but I see Kelly getting the nod over an average starter in camp before a possible make or break Pre-season.

2016 Team of Free Agents - The Defence

Article by Ian Hughes

With the Offence done and out of the way, it’s time to look at the most important side of the ball (Defence wins championships).

My Defence: 4-3 Tampa 2

Defensive Coordinator: Lovie Smith

As a Bears fan, would my DC be anyone else. Should still be in a Job at Tampa, has been linked with the Illinois gig at the NCAA level. The Tampa 2 Defence is my choice right now for 2 key reasons. 1, the best coach available lives in that scheme. 2, It takes way the need to match up size-wise. You can get away with lightly shorter DBs, slightly lighter DLmen, and smaller LBs etc. Opens up the options from the available Free Agents.

Player Talent Overview

There is plenty of Talent lying around on the D side of the ball as always. Not any superstars, but enough pieces of the puzzle to go around the 32 teams who want to fill gaps with Vets over Rookies. DL is the spot with most potential to have a break-out player next year. Some good names in that group. Though there aren’t many quality Safeties around this year. Could get messy on the backend.

DL

Starters: RE – Chris Long + DT – Nick Fairley + DT – B.J. Raji + LE – Mario Williams

There are teams at the NFL level that might want the entire starting that I have just names. Long and Fairley were both part of the terrifying line for the Rams. B.J. Raji had been the anchor for the Packers DL at Nose, clogs gaps and can get a bit of a pass rush going on a good day. Williams has been a star where ever he’s been. Cap casualty going into FA, Can play 4-3 End or 3-4 OLB. The 4 together should complement each other nicely.

Back-Ups: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE + Charles Johnson, DE + Henry Melton, DT + Haloti Ngata, DT

DL depth is critical and if you’ve watched any football over the last 4 years, you would be scared of any team that has these 4 players as back-ups. JPP, was a monster for the Giants. But some poor play by the entire unit and the firework incident have led this player to hit FA. Could be inserted into this Starting line-up or, if you’re like me and scared of the hand, could be used as a situational rusher. Johnson is second on the Panthers Sack list. Last great panthers DE to hit FA was a certain Julius Peppers, and he is still making plays. Might not want him in your starting 4, but you’ll feel safe knowing that you have him on the bench if someone goes down. Melton was a superstar in Chicago (had to be said). 1 ACL tear later and he is a dispensable member of the Dallas Cowboys. Not a great sign for him, but if you think there is any of that player that played for the Bears, you pick him up and rotate him into the line-up. Ngata was a beast, no ifs or buts about it. Now age and injuries have caught up with the one of the best around. Can still play, don’t get me wrong, but make many plays as a starter. I see him best used as a rotation guy that might just blow a play-up every now and again.

LB

Starters: Will - Danny Trevathan + Middle – James Laurinaitis + Sam – Nigel Bradham

Easiest pick of the D group I think… Laurinnaitis is THE LEADER in this FA group. Might be losing a step, but Urlacher and Vilma had success in this Defence in that position as they got up in age. Clever players that will make sure the Defence is in the right place at all times. Trevathan and Bradham just scream 4-3 OLBs. Cover plenty of ground, can cover in space as well as add to the rush. Bradham gets the nod at Sam just, with Trevathan mopping up at Will.

Back-Ups: Bruce Irvin, OLB + Zack Brown, MLB + Rolando McClain, OLB + Chad Greenway, OLB.

Irvin was a part of the Seahawks Super Bowl team. Jack of all trades at LB. Will do jobs on ST as well. Brown was a one-man playmaking machine for the Titans at times. Trust issues have seen him hit the open market. Can play ST witch is always a bonus from your Back-up Defensive players. McClain is a run stuffing machine at LB. Can have problems in coverage but why would I not carry him on the roster just to knock some guys around in run situations. Greenway is probably the only LB I wouldn’t ask to play some ST. The vet has earnt a nice quite retirement somewhere, backing-up some youngsters, passing on knowledge etc. Could even see the field if guys go down.

CB

Starters: Janoris Jenkins + Adam Jones

Jenkins has been one of the better guys in the Rams secondary. And he keeps on getting better and better. Will be a #1 Corner for someone somewhere, but for this list, it’s with me. Pacman is one of those guys I love. At the Corner position you can be too good. Like Revis, just blanket people, no-ones throws the ball your way. Jones is just good. Which means he sees the ball. Bad you’d think, well actually no. See he has great ball skills. Ball gets thrown his way and he want to pick it off. You have one of those guys sat in the flats staring down a QB and you could be onto a winner. Also can return Punts.

Back-Ups: Leodis McKelvin + Jerraud Powers + Charles Tillman + Sherrick McManis

McKelvin was a starter in Buffalo, an injury and good play from younger options led to him being dispensable. Capable ST player, good returner. Powers had been on some great Defences over the last few years but never seems to get raved about. One of those solid guys that just plays the game. Tillman is the living legend of Cover 2 Corners. Turnover machine, has cause too many fumbles. Getting up there in age, but who would say no to having Tillman around as a security blanket. McManis is a Special Teams pick that can give you a little something on Defence when you’re in a bind. Just to remind you, the last ‘ST player’ that played corner for the Bears that was let go, went by the name of Corey Graham…

Safety

Starters: Eric Weddle + Chris Conte

Weddle is the man of the Safeties this year. All round quality player that can do whatever you ask. Might be regressing with age but can still make All-Pro status. Conte is a pick from a bad bunch. Is my, better the devil you know of the Defence. Plenty of plays along with plenty of mistakes. Conte is hit or miss on any given day, that and the fact he might not finish any given game. Made of glass.

Back-Ups: Reggie Nelson + Rashard Johnson + Michael Griffin

Nelson will get picked up by either the team that couldn’t afford Weedle, or lost the race for him. Reliable high safety but not what I would call a standout guy. Johnson was the loser in the race to start for the Cardinals. Has all the talent, but not quite the name or the tape of the player ahead of him. Someone with pick him up and fall in love with his versatility in camp. For me he’s the 3^rd Safety in Big Nickle packages. Will also make plays on ST. Griffin is another one of my stashed veteran picks. The guy was considered past it in Tennessee, but I think he still has a year left.

2016 Team of Free Agents - The Offence

Article by Ian Hughes

With the Franchise Tag deadline passing. We now know which players are likely to hit the open market. This got me thinking about one of my yearly challenges. Can I put together a quality NFL roster made up of players hitting Free Agency?

If you want to play along at home or send in your own rosters, the Rules are pretty simple. No more than 53 Guys. Must have sufficient depth to cover the starters, can’t just list 5 OL players and have a ton of WR’s for example. Linked to that, players must be listed in the position they have played NFL or a suitable alternative, no padding out positions with players that have no right being there. And that’s about it. Let’s see what sort of team I can scrape together this year.

My Offence – Pro Style, 21/12 Personnel, Zone Run

Offensive Coordinator: Mike Shanahan

I try and include coaches where I can as it ties the whole thing together nicely and sticking with the same rules as the players makes it difficult, there are very few good coaches out of work. So for the OC position I will go to Mike Shanahan. Ran the Zone system with great effect during his career. Has been out of the game a while but showed that he wants back into the NFL circle by putting his name out there for HC jobs this season. I wouldn’t have him as my HC but is more than welcome to run my Offence.

Player Talent overview

Just having a quick glance at the talent available. This is not the year to be looking for a WR. Nothing much in the Draft and almost nothing in FA. Alshon Jeffery would have been the superstar target, but the Franchise Tag saved the Bear from losing their biggest weapon. There is depth at the TE position with some big names hitting the open market, leading me to build around that strength.

QB

Starter: Josh Freeman

Once was seen as the Franchise QB for the Tampa Bay Bucs, Freeman almost feel out of the NFL circle. Reasonably athletic QB with a live arm would be my Starter. There isn’t much to choose from at the QB position this year, so the proven starter is the safest bet.

Back-ups: T.J Yates + Travaris Jackson

Yates and Jackson are 2 of the better back-ups in the NFL. Yates played well for the Texans as an emergency starter a few years back and Jackson was an average full-time starter in Minnesota. Both have movement skills and enough arm work the ball around the field.

RB

Starter: Matt Forte

Could it be anyone else at Running back? Forte has been one of the best at the position for the last 5 years. The best catching out of the backfield. The only reasons he is out looking for are his age and the play of the younger backs in Chicago.

Back-ups: Doug Martin + Pierre Thomas + Tyler Clutts

Doug Martin was going to be the next big thing at RB until a decline in touches stalled his career. Had a resurgence last year but still had to fight of the rest of the depth chart. Thomas is that 3^rd Down back teams crave to have, but don’t want to pay. Will find work but probably won’t get paid. Tyler Clutts, I LOVE THIS GUY! Chicago should never have let this guy go. Capable FB, stepped in as an emergency Long Snapper, played on ST and has recently been used as a Tailback by the Dallas Cowboys. This versatility will get him on a roster for sure.

TE

Starters: Vernon Davis + Dwayne Allen

Both of these guys are receiving options from the TE position. And that’s key in a 2 TE offence. Davis has the speed to challenge teams vertically, Allen can find space and is a decent blocker. Both together will create mis-matches.

Back-ups: Jared Cook + Ladarius Green

Jared Cook had a big a problem while a member of the Rams, QB play. When Bradford was healthy, Cook had a good time. Shame Bradford was rarely healthy, then he left. As for Green, he made the most of his time as the only TE in SD while Gates was out. But that wasn’t enough to see him keep he job full time.

WR

Starters: Roddy White + Malcom Floyd

As of writing this, Roddy White had just become a Free Agent. Which was great as I was really struggling to find 2 Starting receiver in this year’s group. He might be getting up there in age, but he can still run his routes and catch the football. Won’t be carrying a passing game at this stage for his career, but you pair him with an explosive partner and you’ll get fireworks. Malcom Floyd became a spare part at times in the Chargers offence. Another guy that is getting up in age, but can still produce.

Back-ups: Marques Colston + Rishard Mathews + Brandon Tate

Colston was recently cut by the Saints. Another guy that is being considered too old for his big pay check. A Luxury pick by me really. Would never make a roster as a 3^rd receiver. But you put him on the field with 2 other ‘Starters’ and you start to win the personnel battle. Mathews had some big games for the Dolphins, but there problems protecting Tannehill effected his production. Well, that and the play of their Star Wideout. Tate rounds out my receiving core nicely. Has been a #2 in Cincy, more suited as a slot in my opinion. Can be useful in the return game.

OL

Starters: LT – Donald Penn + LG – Evan Mathis + C – Alex Mack + RG – Mackenzie Bernardeau + RT – Russel Okung

Offensive Line talent is hard to come by in Free Agency. You can normally find just one guy at each position. Had that’s just what I have managed to do. Penn at Left Tackle is probably the easiest pick I had to make on Offence behind Forte at RB. Played there for what seems like forever. 11 Years in the league, 9 as a starter. He’ll play. Mathis was a nice pick-up by the Broncos to protect Peyton Manning. Again an aging player, but I am not building a franchise here, just a roster. Mack at Center is another obvious one. Might be the best Center in football, could finally have found a way out of Cleveland to play for a contender. Bernardeau was a major factor in the Cowboys success running the football over the last couple of years. Is due a nice payday, but weather he gets it is another matter. Okung will be the biggest winner of the Free Agency sweep stakes. I don’t see him as a Left Tackle, but teams searching at the position will spend good money to see if he can do it. I would rather have him at Right Tackle.

Back-ups: Lance Louis, Guard + J’Marcus Webb

Ok, so my Bears Fandom shows again. Both Louis and Webb played for the bears during a time when they were searching for the right 5 guys on the O-Line. Sometimes it’s better the devil you know. Louis was a competitive Guard that was best when working in space. Makes little sense you say, a Guard plays in a phone booth. But this guy gets better as the space opens up, loved to get out in front as a pulling blocker. As for Webb. A solid Right Tackle that was forced to play out of position at Left Tackle. Just a solid guy, that got the bad end of the stick.

Draft Prospects - Part 1: Wendell Smallwood

Article by Sam Beresford

Every year the draft process comes and goes, with hundreds of prospects working to achieve the impossible dream of making it to the NFL. Now the combine is over, we can look at individual prospects and evaluate them while hearing their own story; something that is very powerful. The media always likes to concentrate on the well-known players, last year it was Winston and Mariota; this year it will be Wentz and Goff however, there are plenty more players who will make up the 2016 draft. In this series, we will be concentrating on the “lesser known” players to try and give you a better insight.

We will be starting with an intriguing prospect, Wendell Smallwood, a running back out of West Virginia University. 2015 was Smallwood’s breakout season running for over 1500 yards from 238 yards, which gave him an average of 6.4 yards per carry. To put that in perspective, during Todd Gurley’s best season at Georgia he only attained an average of 6.2 yards per carry. Smallwood shone in the Big 10 championship, claiming this year’s leading rusher accolade. This in itself magnifies the talent of Smallwood and shows he is someone who should not be taken lightly during this year’s process.

One promising statistic working in Smallwood’s favour, is the fact he caught 54 passes over two seasons with the Mountaineers. Ability to effect the passing game is vital in the modern day with players such as Jamaal Charles and, now free agent, Matt Forte living off their ability to catch passes out of the backfield. Also, backs have to be jack of all trades, especially in the protection of the quarterback. On film, it is evident that Smallwood has little problem picking up rushers on pass protection plays, which is definitely promising at his current build. This also highlights his football intelligence, using his smaller build to effectively protect his quarterback. 

One thing that Smallwood has against him is his frame. Scouts may argue that he lacks the measurables desired at a pro level, standing at 5’10” and weighing in at 208lbs. We cannot doubt his ability to carry an offence on his back, even with his frame, averaging 18.75 carries per game, this season; showing he can take a NFL style work-load. He can also use his agility and lateral movement to his benefit at the pro level, of which he showed in abundance during the scouting combine. Outstanding performances in the 3-cone drill, 6.83 seconds, and the 60-yard shuffle, 11.83 seconds, portray his agility and put him among the top running backs for those particular drills. Smallwood’s build can be overlooked, should Smallwood add some weight to his frame and keep his athleticism.  

 

Smallwood has also not shown big play ability during his time at West Virginia, during the 2015 season, he only had one run beyond 50 yards, he is not the quickest of backs, running a 4.47 40-yard dash at the combine although, he is not slow! He rarely comes out of second gear and sometimes lacks acceleration, staying at one speed during his runs. He does have the ability to score touchdowns though, scoring 9 in his final college season, mainly in short yardage situations.

Overall, Wendell Smallwood will most likely fall into the later 2^nd to early 4^th rounds, for him to succeed at the pro level a team needs to have a separate back with big play ability and who can take the pressure of Smallwood. Should a team have this there is no reason why Smallwood could not become an average starter in the league with the potential to rise. Teams will be hoping Smallwood is not a one year wonder and can carry his 2015 production on with him in the future.

NFL Draft - Top 5 Quarterbacks

Article by Ian Hughes

Carson Wentz, North Dakota State –

Redshirt Senior

Ht: 6’5” Wt: 233 lbs

An NFL Ready QB. Has the type of Frame NFL guys look for in a QB. Extremely Athletic and willing ball carrier. Shows Good Pocket Presence and a Strong Arm capable of making all the throws. Very Accurate and shows some good ball locations.

However, Lower Body Mechanics cause issues. Has a tendency to throw off the back foot/not finish throws with his feet. Struggles at times with throwing footwork on Boots/Roll outs both right and left (particularly left). These issues can cause him to under throw deep balls. Also had a tendency to throw Fades too 'flat' giving WR less chance to adjust and/or catch the ball. Is caught starting down targets from time to time, at a higher playing level would have been Intercepted more often. Baseball background shows at times (Footwork and Arm angles).

Plenty of good to great tape on this guy. FCS school scares me a little but there is obvious talent there and a team will be very happy with him as their QB, even if he needs to start Week 1.

 

Jared Goff, Cal –

Junior

Ht: 6’4” Wt: 210 lbs

Has a live arm that throws a nice Fastball. Accurate and very catchable, with great location on screens and short routes. Shows great touch, knowing when to take a bit off. Fast release, gets the ball quickly. Works through the few reads asked of him. Capable of looking players off. Nice Footwork when kept clean, and Good in the play action game. Looks more than comfortable throwing on the run.

Has a problem reading coverages outside the numbers (Cover 2, Cover 4, 2-Read etc.) when Coverage players have a licence to read patterns. Not going to make many guys miss in the pocket, or in space for that matter. Was sacked plenty of times and had a tendency to put the ball on the floor. Has some real rough patched throwing the ball with a tendency to sail the ball during these patches. Falls away on throws when under pressure, still reasonably accurate but has led to misses and close calls.

Working out of the Gun/Pistol for all his career will not help Goff when moving into the NFL, but he has all the arm talent needed to make the jump. Everything you want from an NFL QB, saying that I would like him to gain a few pounds. Reminds me of Derek Carr a little in the way he operated in the collage style spread offence. Soo much Potential.

 

Connor Cook, Michigan State –

Redshirt Senior

Ht: 6’4” Wt: 220 lbs

The most NFL ready of any QB in this draft, Cook is the prototypical Dropback Passer. Coming out of a Pro-Style system at Michigan State, he is comfortable working from Under-center and the Shotgun. Navigates the pocket with ease. Effortless thrower of the Football, looks like he’s playing catch with a young child at times. Looks after the football, has a nice high carriage in the pocket. Makes quality decisions, when clean and under pressure.

Not what you’d call a ‘Mobile QB’. Has a turn of speed, but is definitely not a natural runner of the Football. Not great throwing on the move either, really struggles when going to his left. Looks hideous at times. Can have problems with Accuracy at times, which is frustrating after watching him be pin point accurate for most of the game, for him to flat out miss on a few key passes. Needs his Feet to throw the football, you aren’t going to see him complete many passes off balance or at strange angles.

The tape is not the whole answer for Cook. Questions about his leadership abilities and personality have come up, but there is no denying the Kid is a Quality QB that can control a game with ease. I expect to see him leave the Draft Board Mid-Late 1^st round, but his value will vary from team to team.

 

Dak Prescott, Mississippi State –

Redshirt Senior

Ht: 6’2” Wt: 226 lbs

Very Accurate on shorter routes. Competent thrower on the run. A threat with his leg when the play breaks down, but still looks to pass first before taking off. Looks comfortable running the option and designed QB runs. Looked after the football much better this year, making good decisions in the pocket. Very durable.

Had real issues with deeper passes. Gets through reads, but not fast enough. Was under constant pressure last season, taking a lot of contact. This could have caused his extreme sensitivity to incoming pressure. Footwork is a real issue, will need plenty of work.

Was touted as the best QB in the SEC coming into the season, but lack of support has caused his all sorts of problems. He doesn’t really have 1 key attribute to hand his hat on, that could see him forgotten when thinking about stand-out QB. Had a good showing at the Senior Bowl.

 

Paxton Lynch, Memphis –

Redshirt Junior

Ht: 6’7” Wt: 245 Lbs

Has got a Cannon of an arm, particularly when working over the middle of the field. Shows some touch when throwing outside the number. Aggressive ball carrier coming out of the backfield. Looks to keep Passing plays alive more than tucking and running. Very athletic for his size, useful as an Option QB. Capable of making plays on the move, though it’s not his strongest suit.

Needs to take a bit off some throws. Doesn’t throw a very catchable football, has a bit of a dirty spiral. Footwork will let him down from time to time as well the way he moves his body weight, shows up most on perimeter throws. Will take on windows that are closing fast. Is a bit slow getting through reads, letting pressure develop. Too tentative in the play action game, need to let it loose and take his shots.

Very Raw QB. Worked almost exclusively out of the Gun at Memphis. This will put plenty of team off but has the size and the arm talent to have a great career. An athletic QB that is always looking to throw is rare in the draft, and will help his stock. Will get comparisons to Joe Flacco, but I would say he’s a better prospect.

 

Review of the NFL Scouting Combine - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Article by Ian Hughes

With the Combine in the rear view mirror, we can now look back and see who helped themselves and who hurt themselves. For the players it’s all about comparisons. How well they did compared to everyone else in their Draft Class and Pros playing their position in the NFL. Good comparisons are key to rising draft stock, Bad comparisons or ‘slow’ times can lead to questions.

The Good –

Ryan Kelly, Center, Alabama: Had a nice workout, weighed in nicely and knocked out a useful 26 in the Bench Press. But what impressed me was his movement skills. Looked comfortable in the on field drills and timed well in the measurable drills.

Derek Henry, RB, Alabama: The 2^nd guy from the national champs to make the Good list. Henry was one of the guys coming into the Combine needing some good times. Questions about his quickness at his size was hamstringing his draft stock, so coming out and running a respectable 4.54 40, that was faster than both Yeldon and Ingram (ex Alabama running backs starting at the NFL level) even pulling away in the final 10 yards. Add to that, he out jumped all other backs while carrying that 247lb frame. Just WOW. Won’t be a fit for everyone, but those that think he fits there system will have jumped him to the top of their Draft Boards.

DB Group: We all knew there were plenty of ballers playing on the DL but the DBs on Monday really impressed. The time were good, the measurable were good. The Gauntlet, as always for the DBs, was a bit hit or miss. There are a lot more guys that will be playing some snaps week 1 after watching the combine, than they would of just of footage.

The Bad –

WR 40 Times:  Are you guys kidding me. Those that had watched plenty of NCAA football or watched the tape would have known that there aren’t too many vertical threats coming out this year, but these guys, as a groups, were slow. The 12 Guys at the top of the 40 Timing board will have earnt money just because of the lack of speed this year.

Jaylon Smiths Knee: Smith was a top 5 pick on a lot of Boards going into the last few games of the season. 1 Big knee injury later and he slid to a possible top 10 pick. The looking to fall even further now after the news that the condition of his Knee is worse than teams feared. We could see the ND LB still on the board on Day 2 of the Draft, with some saying he might still be waiting for his name to be called on Day 3. A real shame for a guy who could really play.

The Ugly –

Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State: No one was expecting Bosa to light up the Combine. Technician not an athlete. He hasn’t hurt his stock with his measurables. Saying that, he didn’t look pretty out there Sunday. Slips on the shuttles. Stiff and robotic were words used to describe Bosa during the day.

Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis: Lynch is a Prospect, not NFL ready. So it not a surprise that he was very hit and miss during the workout Saturday. Showed why he’s high on peoples Draft Boards, but also showed what needs working on. Might have hurt his spot on a few teams boards, but the teams that have done the leg work on him would have expected what they saw and it wouldn’t have bothered them.