Playmaker Mobile

Playmaker Round Up: Michael Vick, Tim Tebow, Kevin Durant, Dan Uggla's hitting streak and more

 

Michael Vick: In thee Eagles’ pre-season opener Vick, with 74 passing yards and a touchdown, helped Philadelphia to a 13-6 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Check out the results of other pre-season openers.

Dan Uggla: Uggla’s hitting streak makes him one of only thirty five players to have hit in 31 or more consecutive games. Uggla’s improvement from a .185 to a .224 batting average since July 5th may be the biggest turnaround in Atlanta sports history.

NFL: It now looks like the second largest market in the nation will finally receive a football team. See if your team may be in the running to head to Southern California.

Tim Tebow: In the pre-season opener, Tim Tebow completed six for seven passes for 91 yards. Although he didn’t score a touchdown nor was he outstanding, Tebow was statistically better than Denver’s other quarterback Kyle Orton. See why some believe he was able to silence the “Tebow haters”.

Real Madrid: Leonel Angel Coira was signed to one of the biggest soccer teams in the world, Real Madrid, as a preemptive move to prevent Barcelona from acquiring him. And he’s only 7 years old!

NBA: As more players begin to sign with international teams, such as Ron Artest, some notable NBA stars players such as Kevin Durant, Dwyane Wade, and Carmelo Anthony are of thinking of playing overseas.

Playmaker Roundup: Top 25 college football teams, Eagles "Dream Team", McIlroy calls out Tiger and more...

NFL:  Everyone can take a sigh of relief as the NFL lockout has come to an end. However this summer has seen some of the biggest names in football re-sign with a different team. The Patriots once again look like the team to beat with the acquisition of All-Pro defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and WR Chad Ochocinco. Also, the Philadelphia Eagles have put together what some believe could be Super Bowl contenders; see if you believe the hype of the Eagles “dream team.”

NCAAF:  The USA Today’s panel of coaches have chosen the Top 25 preseason teams. The Oklahoma Sooners have received the honor for being selected atop the list at number one. Oklahoma’s head coach Bob Stoops commented saying that “preseason ranking means very little compared with what it will mean months from now”; which is why some believe that Oklahoma won’t be in the BCS title game, and check out the other 25 teams that won’t win it all

Brett Favre: Has had a history with returning to the NFL. In 2008 he retired from the Green Bay Packers and then played with the Jets. In 2009 he retired with the Jets to play for the Minnesota Vikings. In 2010 his teammates in Minnesota convinced him to stay another year. In 2011 he has retired… and may play for the Miami Dolphins!? See how Bret Favre may return to the same offensive coordinator he had in New York.

Serena Williams: Congratulations to Serena Williams for winning the 2011 Bank of the West Classic. Read the full story here and how Williams hopes this win will jump start a comeback.

NBA Lockout: As the NFL lockout has come to an end the NBA lockout looks even worse.  Following one of the most exciting years in the history of the NBA with a new MVP out of Chicago, the underdog Dallas Mavericks beating the star studded Miami Heat, and a very talented rookie of the year in Blake Griffin; it appears this year there won’t be any professional basketball as the owners claim the NBA is losing money.

Tiger Woods: Has returned to Golf at the Firestone Country Club. Rory McIlroy stated, “No one expects [Woods] to come out and play well.” Woods came up with a one-over 71 this Friday. It looks like McIlroy was correct as even Woods comments on his struggles, "Here this week, it's been getting the ball the right number [distance-wise]."

NFL Draft Grades – 2011

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

AFC

Baltimore ( C )
DC Jimmy Smith is a “character risk” with loads of talent.  WO’s Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss will help the Ravens pass attack. DB Chykie Brown could surprise as a DS/DC combo player.  DT Pernell McPhee is an underachiever with potential.

Buffalo ( B )
Love the idea of taking three Defensive players right out of the gate.  DT Marcell Dareus will pay immediate dividends.  Thought DC Aaron Williams was overrated but can’t have enough DC depth.  OT Chris Hairston and RB Johnny White could both surprise as mid round picks. 

Cincinnati ( B )
WO A. J. Green is a dynamite receiver.  QB Andy Dalton should develop nicely under new Offensive Coordinator Jay Gruden.  He is both efficient and accurate with the look of a winner.  LB Dontay Moch should impact as a Nickel rusher with his 4.35 speed. 

Cleveland ( B )
Taking DT Phil Taylor was a tad risky due to his lazy streaks.  DE Jabaal Sheard has a motor and will help the pass rush.  WO Greg Little is a solid pick who should help Colt McCoy’s progress.  FB Owen Marecic is an outstanding all around player who will bring energy.  OT Jason Pinkston has starter ability and looks like a late steal.

Denver ( A )
LB Von Miller will help the pass rush but could be a liability in the run game.  DS Rahim Moore is a ball hawk who could start as a rookie.  OG Orlando Franklin plays with a nasty streak.  TE Julius Thomas has loads of upside.  DS Quinton Carter brings a physical demeanor.  His Oklahoma teammate DE Jeremy Beal looks like a late round find.

Houston ( A )
With one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses, the Texans were smart to add defense early.  Their first four picks, DE J J Watt, LB Brooks Reed, DC Brandon Harris and DC Rashad Carmichael could all become rookie starters.  Late pick OT Derek Newton is an excellent developmental prospect.

Indianapolis ( B )
OT Anthony Castonzo gives Colts a solid starter at a crucial position.  OT Ben Ijalana will take some time to develop.  DT Drake Nevis is a high motor, productive player who will help early.  RB Delone Carter adds quickness to the backfield.

Jacksonville – ( B )
The obvious key to this draft is Blaine Gabbert, who the Jags traded up to get as their QB of the future.  I am not a big Gabbert fan.  OL Will Rackley adds quality and versatility to a young offensive line.  WO Cecil Shorts was dominant at the small college level, amassing over 60 career TD grabs.  DC Rod Issac is a nice sleeper worth following.

Kansas City ( A )
The Chiefs 1st pick WO Jon Baldwin is talented but comes with “character” issues.  OC Rodney Hudson should start as a rookie.  Middle round picks DE Allen Bailey and DC Jalil Brown are great values.  QB Ricky Stanzi brings needed insurance at the game’s most critical position.

Miami ( D )
OC Mike Pouncey is solid but the Dolphins still lack a quality QB.  The next two picks of RB Dan Thomas and WO Edmund Gates look like back-up types.  Late round DC Jimmy Wilson will contribute early on special teams.

New England ( A )
OT Nate Solder is outstanding and 2nd round pick DC Ras-I-Dowling is a first round talent who fell some due to injuries.  RB’s Shane Vereen and Steven Ridley give QB Tom Brady more weapons for an explosive offense.  QB Ryan Mallett is a good value pick in the 3rd round.

New York Jets ( B )
Drafting Massive DT’s with the first two picks is smart.  Muhammed Wilkerson and Kenrick Ellis should bolster one of the league’s top defenses.  RB Bilal Powell is a productive “under the radar” type who will add depth.  The sure handed WO Jeremy Kerley is another good mid round value.

Oakland ( C )
I like the Raiders 2nd round pick OC Stefen Wisniewski.  Their next pick of DC Demarcus Van Dyke was a forty yard dash reach who didn’t even start in college.  DC Chimdi Chekwa and RB Taiwan Jones are great mid round values.  Tall WO David Ausberry could be a 7th round steal after being underutilized at USC.

Pittsburgh ( A )
Getting solid starting linemen in DE Cam Heyward and OT Marcus Gilbert show why the rich get richer.  I felt DC Curtis Brown was arguably the best cover guy in the draft and a 3rd round steal.  LB Chris Carter  could be a 5th round gem.

San Diego ( A )
The Chargers drafted smart, starting with DT Corey Liuget, who will start early, and 2nd round pick Marcus Gilchrist who is both fast and athletic in coverage.  Mid round picks WO  Vincent Brown and DC Shareece Wright are two of my favorite players in the entire draft and should contribute early.

Seattle ( D )
I thought the Hawks reached a bit for OT James Carpenter in the first, especially needing help on defense and at QB.  Another offensive lineman was added in OG John Moffitt, who will add depth.  LB K. J. Wright will compete for playing time at OLB.  DS Mark Legree had 22 picks in college and should boost the special teams in year one. 

Tennessee ( A )
The Titans got their QB of the future in Jake Locker, who is outstanding both on/off the field.  LB Akeem Ayers needs to be more consistent but has big play potential.  3rd round pick DT Jurell Casey is an absolute steal and makes this one of the league’s better drafts.  5th round DT Karl Klug brings energy and toughness.

 

NFC

Arizona ( A )
The Cards got the best DB in the draft in Pat Peterson as well as the best RB in 2nd round pick Ryan Williams.  TE Rob Housler gives the team a speedster at TE.  I thought DE Sam Acho was a fourth round steal as one of the better pure pass rushers in the draft.  LB Quan Sturdivant was an excellent value pick in the 6th round.

Atlanta ( D )
Though Julio Jones is very talented, I was shocked the Falcons gave up four picks to move up for a WO.  Productive LB Akeem Dent was a solid pick.  RB Jaquizz Rodgers is talented but extremely tiny at 5’6".  OG Andrew Jackson can be a quality back-up with added weight.

Carolina ( D )
The Cam Newton pick will define this draft.  I thought he was a major reach and  picked purely on potential, which is extremely risky at the top of the draft.  After that, it looks like a bunch of back-ups, the best being mid round pick DT Sione Fua and late round grab LB Lawrence Wilson.

Chicago ( D )
The Bears landed a starting ROT in 6’7" Gabe Carimi.  The next two picks I thought were reaches, DT Stephen Paea and DS Chris Conte.  5th Round pick QB Nate Enderle has one of the best arms in the draft and could develop nicely.

Dallas ( C )
The extremely athletic OT Tyron Smith could become a great LOT in time.  LB Bruce Carter needs to play more physical.  RB Demarco Murray is a home run threat but a finesse type.  WO Dwayne Harris could surprise, as well as late round gem DC Josh Thomas, who brings a physical demeanor to the Cowboys.

Detroit ( D )
Though not entirely sold on the inconsistent Nick Fairley, I do like the idea of taking defensive linemen early.  Thought they should stick with defense but went for WO Titus Young and RB Mikel Leshoure in the 2nd.  7th round pick OT Johnny Culbreath is a developmental type with some potential as a back up only.

Green Bay ( A )
Again, the rich get richer.  OT Derek Sherrod is a great value in late one.  Randall Cobb is another exciting WO for an explosive offense.  LB D J Smith is one of my favorites after amassing over 500 tackles in college.  LB Ricky Elmore will fit perfectly as a 3-4 OLB projection.

Minnesota ( B )
It appears the Vikings wanted Jake Locker but settled for Christian Ponder who is talented as a West Coast offense type.  Kyle Rudolph is the Vikings TE of the future and a solid pick.  Mid round picks DC Brandon Burton and OC Brandon Fusco could both surprise.  Late rounder DE Deandre Reed has a good motor and tons of potential and WO Steve Burton was one of the more productive receivers in all of college football the last few years. 

New Orleans ( B )
DE Cam Jordan is an instant starter and a solid player in both phases.  RB Mark Ingram gives the Saints a big back who can wear down defenses.  LB Martez Wilson is a fringe type who “times” a lot faster than he plays.  DC Johnny Patrick and DE Greg Romeus are both good late values.

New York Giants ( A )
Not crazy about DC Prince Amukamara but the Giants hit “home runs” after that.  DT Marvin Austin should be disruptive early.  WO Jerrell Jernigan is explosive on the outside and can also return.  Gigantic and athletic OT James Brewer is a 4th round steal who could become a 10 year starter.  Like former late round pick Ahmad Bradshaw, the Giants might have found another 7th round running gem in Da’rel Scott.

Philadelphia ( A )
Another quality draft for the Eagles.  OG Danny Watkins is solid.  DS Jaiwquan Jarrett is a big hitter.  DC Curtis Marsh is a speed demon.  LB Casey Matthews brings great value in the 4th.  PK Alex Henery is one of the better kickers to come out recently.  5th Round picks RB Dion Lewis and OG Julian Vandervelde are both highly productive.  LB’s Brian Rolle and Greg Lloyd both bring nasty demeanors and 7th rounder Stanley Havili was the best all around FB in the draft.

San Francisco ( C )
Wasn’t crazy about OB projection Aldon Smith in the early first round.  QB Colin Kaepernick has big time upside and will be the 49ers QB of the future.  DC Chris Culliver was a “work out” reach in the 3rd.  I Love 4th round pick RB Kendall Hunter who should excite fans in year one and was an absolute steal.  Mid round WO Ron Johnson is an excellent route runner with nice hands. 

St Louis ( B )
Taking DE Robert Quinn in the 1st round was a great move.  TE Lance Kendricks was a reach in the 2nd.  Taking two of my favorite WO’s back to back, Austin Pettis in 3rd followed by Greg Salas in the 4th round give QB Sam Bradford some needed weapons.  Late round LB Jabara Williams brings 4.5 speed and over 500 career tackles to the Rams and could challenge for play time in year one.

Tampa Bay ( A ) 
I consider this the NFL’s best overall draft.  Adding two top 10 defensive linemen in one draft is amazing. DE Adrian Clayborn is outstanding and DE Da’Quan Bowers slid all the way to the middle of the 2nd due to medical concerns.  Solid LB Mason adreFoster is versatile, TE Luke Stocker is productive as both blocker and receiver and DS Ahmad Black hits with authority.  Late round RB Allen Bradford was one of my most underrated players in this draft.

Washington ( B )
DE Ryan Kerrigan has a non-stop motor and will likely convert to OLB in the Skins 3-4 front.  WOs Hankerson, Paul and Robinson give the passing attack a needed boost.  RBs Roy Helu and Evan Royster bring both size and versatility.  DC Brandyn Thompson was overlooked a bit and is a solid cover guy with ball skills.  Late round OG Maurice Hurt from Florida could be a steal.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil. He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

NFL Draft Philosophy: Supply and Demand

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

When building an NFL team, the business approach of “supply and demand” should be the primary thought process of the people in charge.  This should really hold true in today’s early rounds of the NFL Draft.

When the San Francisco 49ers were building their dynasty in the eighties, they valued certain positions much more than others.  QB, DL, OT and DC were the most difficult positions to fill and that is one big reason the team “hit” on future Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott with the 8th overall pick in the 1981 Draft.  It was the 49ers only top ten pick throughout their long run of Super Bowl titles and they nailed it.  And seven teams past him by!

When you look at any team’s Draft board, there will be an abundance of WOs and RBs each and every year.  It is a different story if a potential WO or RB is deemed a potential Hall of Famer like Adrian Peterson.  Watching the Steelers vs the Packers in this year’s Super Bowl should remind everyone that, with the exception of QB, offensive skill positions can be found later in the Draft.  Even the New England Patriots have been very successful without early round WOs or RBs.  

The successful teams all seem to know this.  It is teams that generally pick in the top ten that fall victim to the “sexy” picks and go the WO route early.  Believe me, they are easy to find and are plentiful, like a Hines Ward in round three or a Marques Colston in round seven.  Or a Michael Turner in round six or Priest Holmes as an undrafted free agent.  It is much harder to find dominant big men or DCs in the later rounds, as well as playmaking OLBs.  Those positions all tend to fly off the draft board early, which is why the best and most productive model for building a winning team is the “supply and demand” approach when picking players, especially early in the Draft.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil.  He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

Drafting “Best Available” is the Only Way - NFL Draft

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

The Arizona Cardinals would love to turn back the clock to April of 2007.  That is when the franchise passed on future Hall of Fame running back Adrian Peterson and selected offensive tackle Levi Brown with the fifth overall pick in the draft.  It never should have happened.  I know.  I was there.

The Oklahoma running star was the top player on our board that year.  An unusual talent.  Several scenarios were discussed trying to figure out if Peterson could somehow slip to the fifth pick.  He did in fact slip, and instead of taking our number one player, we skipped over him for a “need” and took the lower rated Penn State offensive tackle.  This is why teams need to stick with their board and not compromise months of hard work.  Brown is a good player.  Peterson is a rare player.  We had recently signed OH Edgerrin James from Indianapolis as a free agent so some of the thinking was that we had already invested in a runner.  But that is a poor argument, as James was on his last leg as a Pro and most people knew that.  Again, it is all about rating players and some of us stated that Peterson was the best RB we had ever graded.  One can only imagine the offensive firepower of Warner, Fitzgerald, Boldin and Peterson.  The decision to pass on “best available” might have cost the Cardinals a Super Bowl crown.  

The Green Bay Packers drafting Aaron Rodgers with Brett Favre still on the roster is a prime example of drafting “best available player.”  This has turned into an outstanding pick for the Packers, resulting in a Super Bowl win.

With injuries being a major part of the NFL landscape, it is all the more reason not to pass on elite players.  With the Draft coming up, teams must remember to stay disciplined and draft for the future, and not reach for a need and pick for the present.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil. He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

High Production Key for Undrafted Gems

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

How is it that NFL teams spend millions of dollars scouting college football players and allow potential "stars" to slip through the cracks and go Undrafted?  After spending several years in the NFL myself as a talent scout, I examined a lot of these "steals" and found something in common with most:  high production and lack of prototype size. 

Let's be honest here.  Everybody, including me, loves players to be both big, fast and productive.  And guess what?  Most of these types fly off the Draft Board in the first couple of rounds.  What teams do the remainder of the Draft is crucial for winning Championships. 

What has always bothered me is the vast number of "bad" football players who get picked based on potential rather than ability/production while passing solid and consistent college "producers."  As you will see below, all of these Undrafted steals should have been picked at some point if consistent production is given its proper respect, not the size/speed ratio of an individual player.  Not to say everyone with a lot of production will "make-it" in the league.  A lot depends on the roster depth of the particular team.  And this is not at all about statistics.  It is about "consistent" performance in game situations.  Like I always say, the NFL is not the NBA so height is of little importance.  The game is more about movement and quickness, combined with "competitive" demeanor.  With the Draft a few days away, remember to look closely at "high producers" and you might just find yourself the next big "Draft Sleeper."

1. Priest Holmes, UFA-Baltimore, 1997

The 5' 9" Holmes was healed from a knee injury as he rushed for over 200 yards in the Big 12 Championship game, his last as a college player.  He was a highlight reel as a junior in 2006, rushing for 1,615 yards and 21 TDs.

2.  London Fletcher, UFA-St Louis, 1999

Measuring at a tad over 5' 9" and from tiny John Carroll University, there was no way Fletcher was going to be picked.  The Rams were the only team to offer him a Free Agent look but when you check his reports, you see 202 tackles as a senior and a confirmed 4.53 forty yard dash time.  Those are impressive at any level!  I was with the Rams at the time.  Turned heads with his speed and quickness at the very first minicamp!

3.  Tony Romo, UFA-Dallas, 2003

Came out of Eastern Illinois, the same school that produced Dallas QB coach Sean Payton, who took a flier on this kid after he threw for career stats of 8,212 yards and 85 TDs while being the first player ever from the Ohio Valley Conference to win the Walter Payton Award, given to the Nation's Top small college player.

4.  Wes Welker, UFA-San Diego, 2004

Was not even written by the National Scouting services that year.  Another reason never to overlook production.  Measuring in at 5' 8", Welker was dynamic in every Texas Tech game he played in, setting an NCAA record with 8 punt return TDs to go with 259 career receptions.

5.  Davone Bess, UFA-Miami, 2008

Though Hawaii generally produces productive receivers, this player was different as he had a knack for separating from coverage and dispayed excellent "run after catch" ability.  His 4.71 forty time didn't help, all the more reason to go with functional play speed over "timed" speed any day.  His final two years at Hawaii saw him catch 204 balls and 27 TDs.

6.  Danny Woodhead, UFA-NY Jets, 2008

I admit I was one who did not give this player the benefit of the doubt coming out of Chadron State in Western Nebraska.  Was a shade over 5' 8" but set numerous NCAA rushing records, including an "eye popping" 7,441 yards rushing, including 19 games of 200 plus yards rushing!  As good as he looked on tape, just could not get over his diminutive stature.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil. He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

2011 NFL Draft “Sleepers”

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

Good college football players get overlooked or “missed” each year for a variety of reasons, including lack of size, a medical condition, or even lack of play time due to roster depth.  This is what makes NFL Scouting fun, trying to find the next “late round steal” like the Saint's Marques Colston or undrafted gems like Wes Welker, Priest Holmes or Tony Romo.  It is impossible to find the “perfect” player.  They don’t exist.  The following players all have some positive traits to their game but are being overlooked for one reason or another.  Most of these players will go undrafted but they all have a chance to “make a team” and contribute if given an opportunity.  Like legendary coach Bill Walsh always stated in Draft Meetings, “If they can do it once, they can be coached to do it again.”

1. David Ausberry - WO/H-Back - USC

The former “Five Star” recruit out of fertile central California is a “giant” on the outside at 6'3" and 240 lbs.  Has been mainly a role player after being slowed by an injury in 2009 but this physical specimen is a natural as an H-Back projection due to hands and willingness to block.  

2. Carl Moore - WO - Florida

Another former “Five Star” recruit who has underachieved.  Was rated the #2 JUCO player in the Nation out of the “competitive” Golden Valley conference in California, where he grabbed 73 receptions, 1068 yards and 16 TDs before heading to Gainesville.  Saw him play live in JUCO and looked like the next Calvin Johnson.  The 6' 3", 215 pounder was slowed by an '09 back injury and subpar QB play.  This is an ideal 7th round / free agent target.  Had 41 receptions, 533 yards and 2 TDs in a short career for the Gators.

3. D. J. Smith - LB - Appalachian State

His career stats of 525 tackles and 38 Pass Break Ups is difficult to overlook.  Same size as London Fletcher coming out of tiny John Carroll University.  Doesn’t have the pure speed of Fletcher but is “all over the field” in every game he plays.  These types never change.  They overcome odds and play their way onto a roster.

4. James McGillicuddy - TE - Stanford

This kid is such a “sleeper” that his jersey number is wrong in the Stanford media guide.  He is listed as #74 and actually wears #80.  The 300 pound back-up OG is used as a short yardage and Goal Line blocker and can look absolutely dominant at the POA!  Missed '06 and '07 with knee a injury but is healthy now.  Excellent Free Agent as blocker only.  Lacks AA to be anything else.

5. Adam Froman - QB - Louisville

The former JUCO transfer was injured after eight starts in 2010.  Passed for 1633 yards with a 60% completion rate, 11 TDs and 4 INTs.  Good size and speed at 6' 3" 225 4.60.  Improved each week. Can avoid pressure and make plays on the move.  Nice arm. A lot of tools to work with and develop.  Same movement and skill set of Trent Green coming out of Indiana in mid-nineties.

6. Victor Aiyewa - OLB - Washington

Overshadowed by teammate Mason Foster but had an excellent year himself with 85 tackles and 23 Tackles For Loss.  He is a “tweener” type who moved from DS to OB and needs to add size but make no mistake, he has a knack for finding the ball.  All over field in Holiday Bowl vs Nebraska with 3 TFLs, 1 sack and 2 forced fumbles.  These types overcome odds due to FB instincts and ability.

7. Donovan Edwards - OT - California

The long armed “kneebender” started only six games this past season but showed impressive feet and lateral range in some late season starts.  Another former JUCO player who could surprise with development.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil.  He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

Playmaker 2011 Mock NFL Draft - 1st Round

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

1. Carolina: Pat Peterson - DC - LSU
GM Marty Hurney remains a Jimmy Clausen fan, passes QBs and takes “best player” on Panthers Board.

2. Denver: Marcell Dareus - DT - Alabama
Broncos need help badly on both interior lines, opt for the 330 pound behemoth to anchor the Defense.

3. Buffalo: Von Miller - LB - Texas A&M
With a 90 year old owner and 70 year old GM, the Bills continue the trend of “reaching” in first, this time taking the overrated pass rusher and sticking with Fitzpatrick at QB in effort to “win now.”

4. Cincinnati: Cam Newton - QB - Auburn
With the status of Carson Palmer up in the air, President Mike Brown decides to pick the controversial Heisman winner as his QB of the future.

5. Arizona: A. J. Green - WO - Georgia
Cards pass on QB, go “best available” route and land this dynamic outside threat to team with Larry Fitzgerald. This makes a deal for Marc Bulger all the more likely.

6. Cleveland: Da’Quan Bowers - DE - Clemson
GM Tom Heckert is thrilled that arguably the Draft’s best player falls into his lap due to medical concerns.

7. San Francisco: Blaine Gabbert - QB - Missouri
Like him or not, new coach Jim Harbaugh finds his QB of the future to replace former 1st Round bust Alex Smith.

8. Tennessee: Nick Fairley - DT - Auburn
The Titans start the “Munchak Era” by nabbing the “disruptive” former War Eagle to anchor their Defensive line.

9. Dallas: Tyron Smith - OT - USC
This is a very solid pick for the Cowboys. The athletic Smith should be the starting Left Tackle on opening day.

10. Washington: Julio Jones - WO - Alabama
With several “needs” to fill, Shanahan opts for a much needed “playmaker” on the offensive side of the ball.

11. Houston: Prince Amukamara - DC - Nebraska
The Texans take “need” over “best available” and reach a bit for the hot/cold former Cornhusker.

12. Minnesota: Jake Locker - QB - Washington
The Vikings nab who, in my opinion is the “best” QB in this Draft and a clone of former record setting QB Brett Favre.

13. Detroit: Ryan Kerrigan - DE - Purdue
GM Martin Mayhew is smart to pick this highly productive defender for his young and improving Defense.

14. St Louis: Corey Liuget - DT - Illinois
Building the Defense becomes the Rams top priority after hitting a “homerun” with Sam Bradford in last year’s Draft.

15. Miami: Robert Quinn - DE - North Carolina
Dolphins ecstatic when Quinn falls this far. Can’t have enough good defensive players.

16. Jacksonville: Mike Pouncey - OC - Florida
The Jags stay close to home and select the versatile former Gator, who many feel is the best overall offensive lineman in the Draft.

17. New England (Oakland): Cam Jordan - DE - California
With the first of two top round picks, the Pats grab a very solid player and add to a “young and hungry” defense.

18. San Diego: Nate Solder - OT - Colorado
By landing this 6’8 giant, the Chargers fill a glaring need and get an instant starter in the process.

19. New York Giants: Akeem Ayers - LB - UCLA
The Giants truly need OLBs and feel Ayer’s “big play” ability will compensate for his inconsistency on the field.

20. Tampa Bay: J. J. Watt - DE - Wisconsin
Adding the “high effort” performer is another positive move in the rebuilding job done by GM Mark Dominik.

21. Kansas City: Anth Castonzo - OT - Boston College
Getting the rangy OT looks like a “sure bet” for the Chiefs while filling a glaring need. Should start early.

22. Indianapolis: Adrian Clayborn - DE - Missouri
Some medical concerns allow this Top 10 talent to fall right into their laps and vastly improve the defensive front.

23. Philadelphia: Stef Wisniewski - OC - Penn State
Andy Reid loves taking big bodies early and the scrappy ex Nittany Lion should become the anchor of a solid offensive line.

24. New Orleans: Jimmy Smith - DC - Colorado
The size/speed DC doesn’t lack for talent though does come with some character/intangible concerns.

25. Seattle: Derek Sherrod - OT - Miss State
Another team with a huge need at the OT position. Sherrod should get every chance to play early at ROT.

26. Baltimore: Cam Heyward - DE - Ohio State
The Ravens add to their already “dominant” defense with the selection of the underrated son of the late Craig “Ironhead” Heyward.

27. Atlanta: Brooks Reed - LB - Arizona
GM Thomas Dimitroff finds it difficult to pass on the “high motor” LB, whose disruptive and intense style can fit any defense

28. New England: Aldon Smith - LB - Missouri
Pats go heavy on defense and land this DE/OLB conversion to add a vital weapon to an impressive pass rush group.

29. Chicago: Marvin Austin - DT - North Carolina
This player could have been a “top ten” pick had he played last season. With uncertainty surrounding Tommy Harris, this is a big “need” pick for GM Jerry Angelo.

30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor - NT - Baylor
The 330 pound NT becomes an “anchor” for the Jets 3-4 front.

31. Pittsburgh: Gabe Carimi - OT - Wisconsin
Steelers get much needed protection for Roethlisberger. Can play LOT but should find a home on the right side.

32. Green Bay: Mark Ingram - RB - Alabama
GM Ted Thompson unlikely to shy away from “best available” model so he grabs a big and powerful runner to add a “key” component to the league’s best offense.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil. He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

Avoid “Red Flags” in First Round of NFL Draft

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

Looking back at 8 Draft classes from 2000-2007, I found 44 busts out of a total of 120 Top 15 picks.  That is far too many and it is easy to identify the culprit: Red Flags! 

The two classes with the most “early round” busts are 2003 and 2007 with seven each in the top 15. Ouch! 

Examining those years, below are the “flags” discussed on each player leading up to the Draft.  Some are good players who bust due mainly to medical issues.  Several are players with overlooked “red flags.”  Almost every single early pick has height, weight and speed traits on paper.  This is a “security blanket” for the majority of NFL executives who lack confidence in their evaluation skills or who don’t do the work themselves.  It then becomes easier to blame the “coach” for not properly developing all the physical talent that these “busts” possess.  

Moral of the story: In the first round, take the “best player available” with “Zero Red Flags.”  Believe me, it is possible!

2003

Charles Rogers - WR - Detroit - Pick #2
Concerns :  Character and mental (10 test) on wonderlic. Was a “big play” receiver but some questioned his several dropped balls. Had a rare “work-out” on campus, running in the low 4.30’s. A Lions personnel executive was quoted in the paper the next day calling Rogers a “no brainer.”

DeWayne Robertson - DT - NY Jets - Pick #4
Concerns:  I honestly cannot remember any negatives discussed on this player.  Sometimes the NFL game is just too big.

Johnathan Sullivan - DT - New Orleans - Pick #6
Concerns:  Work ethic was the big issue here on more than one report. In some cases it improves. In most it doesn’t.

Byron Leftwich - QB - Jacksonville - Pick #7
Concerns:  Poor leader, elongated release, marginal mobility. Had strong arm but the scouts who questioned his first round talent were correct.

Jimmy Kennedy - DT - St Louis - Pick #12
Concerns:  Consistency and toughness. This was a HWS player who some only considered a 3rd round type talent. Teams will reach often on this position because they are very difficult to find. Has turned into a back-up, fringe starter.

Michael Haynes - DE - Chicago - Pick #14
Concerns:  Effort, consistency. Grades were all over board on this player, from 1st to 5th round. When that is the case, watch out. Have to see “discrepancy” players vs best competition.

Jerome McDougle - DE - Philly - Pick #15
Concerns:  Zero. This was a unanimous “great pass rusher” who could never stay healthy.

2007

Jamarcus Russell - QB - Oakland - Pick #1
Concerns:  Mental and work ethic. The negatives were overlooked due to having a “cannon” for an arm, the least important quality in a QB.

Gaines Adams - DE - Tampa Bay - Pick #4
Concerns:  Strength vs the run, effort. Though Adams had some pass rush skill, his run play and overall physical nature were lacking.  

Levi Brown - OT - Arizona - Pick #5
Concerns:  Athletic ability. Though he was high on Draft boards and still a serviceable starter, this guy will be remembered as the player the Cards passed on Adrian Peterson to take. Scouting staff wanted Peterson. Coach and GM wanted Brown.  Guess who won?

Jamaal Anderson - DE - Atlanta - Pick #8
Concerns:  Consistency of play, can disappear in games. This was a player who played very well in some games and awful in others. Still in league but a big disappointment.

Ted Ginn Jr. - WR - Miami - Pick #9
Concerns:  Not a receiver. Strictly a “return specialist.” This was the “shocker” of the 1st round. Far too early to take a returner. Can’t remember one scout who thought he was a starting wide receiver.

Marshawn Lynch - RB - Buffalo - Pick #12
Concerns:  Character, speed. Lynch was an overhyped player who had “back-up” talent. Lack of maturity a big issue.

Adam Carriker - DT - St Louis - Pick #13
Concerns:  Pass Rush, quickness. Most viewed Carriker as a solid pick here though there were some differences in terms of 1st round ability overall. His biggest negative to date is mostly “durability.”

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil.  He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).

2011 Draft – Best Value by Position After 1st Round

By Dave Razzano, Playmaker Correspondent

I have said many times that the first round of the NFL Draft is extremely overrated.  It doesn’t take much research to see just how many first round picks never pan out, not to mention top ten picks who bust.  Too many people other than the scouts are involved early in the process, like club Presidents and GMs who don’t grade players themselves and wouldn’t know an early rounder from an undrafted free agent.  The scouting staff has much more say after the first day and can help identify “hidden gems” later in the Draft.  Below is a list of “value” picks by position, players likely to get picked from the 2nd round on and in some cases might not be drafted at all.

QB – Colin Kaepernick, Nevada
This dynamic playmaker could creep into the bottom of round one but is more likely to land in the 2nd round.  Could well become the best QB of this Draft class.  Outstanding intermediate and deep accuracy.

RB – Allen Bradford, USC
Rushed for over 200 yards in his only two starts of the season.  Big back with “little man” run skill is a successful combination.  This is an NFL starter who can be had in 4th or 5th round.

WO – Vincent Brown, San Diego State
This player will be one of the “steals” of this Draft.  He can take over games with outstanding route running and hands but his 4.70 forty at the combine will scare teams off.  Ironically, one of his true strengths is his “vertical” ability.

TE – Julius Thomas, Portland State
We all know the Antonio Gates story and this kid is cut from the same mold.  Only played one season of football after starring on the basketball team for four years.  Intriguing upside, especially at a position lacking depth in this Draft.

OT – Jarriel King, South Carolina
This player will fall due to “character” issues.  If he gets his head screwed on right, could become this year’s version of the Saints Carl Nicks, a Pro Bowl graded talent who fell to the 5th round due to off field concerns.

OG – Julian Vandervelde, Iowa
Will fall due to size limits but watch him play and he is a scrappy competitor who battles to the whistle.  Much like the Colts starting OG Kyle Devan, undersized but nasty on the field.

OC – Taylor Boggs, Humboldt State
Has three “key” ingredients to develop: size, smarts and toughness.  Chance to go undrafted and become a starter in time, much like the Cardinals Lyle Sendlein, a four year starter after going undrafted.

DE – Sam Acho, Texas
Natural pass rush ability is evident when watching this kid on tape.  Possible 3-4 OLB conversion.  His height will drop him out of first round but should become a productive NFL pass rusher with double digit sack potential.

DT – Drake Nevis, LSU
Love the motor on this interior lineman.  Can be disruptive as one gap penetrator.  High effort at all times.  These types who play hard and lack some height always seem to fall on Draft Day.

OLB – Malcolm Smith, USC
The active and smart linebacker was not invited to the combine this season.  Watch the USC tape and he is in/out of the lineup due to roster depth but is easy to spot when he plays.  Excellent speed and play demeanor.  Prototype 4-3 “will” backer.

ILB – Lawrence Wilson, Connecticut
With added bulk, I see this player’s future being on the inside.  One of the more physical linebackers in the Draft, he possesses very good short area explosion required between the tackles.

DC – Curtis Brown, Texas
Doesn’t get talked about with the upper tier DC’s on most Draft Reports but could very well be the best pure man to man shadow cover guy in the Draft.  Outstanding feet/anticipation.

DS – Dejon Gomes – Nebraska
Very active run support player on a solid defense.  Plays best in the “box” but does show enough range and cover instincts on passing downs. Solid tackler with an aggressive playing demeanor.

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Dave Razzano is a former NFL scout and Playmaker Mobile correspondent with more than 22 years of professional scouting experience with the San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and Arizona Cardinals under NFL coaches including Bill Walsh, George Seifert, Chuck Knox and Dick Vermeil.  He's been a part of five Super Bowls with three Super Bowl wins (49ers, 1989, 1990; Rams, 2000).