2009 Nfl Draft Preview Magazine

TY2K Productions & Draft IQ, Inc. Presents

2009 200 9 NFL DRAFT PREVIEW

The Great Debates In This Issue: Quality at the top The Skinny on Gaps & Techniques Old = New in Today’s NFL

1st Round Mock Draft Super Sleepers 100+ Player Ratings

Path to the Draft: Slim Pickings for Christmas this year The economy isn’t the only thing hurting this year – the 2009 draft class seems to be a bit weaker than years past. Where 2008 saw quality well into the later rounds, this year it’s slim at the top, and a bare cupboard in the later rounds. The tough economy has reached NFL owners, so if you thought draft prospects were scrutinized before, you aint seen nothing yet! Top prospect Matthew Stafford was even quizzed about his parents divorce in a pre-draft interview. Now more than ever teams want to be sure they are investing wisely. QB: As is par for the course, there are two guys at the top that no one can seem to agree on. Georgia’s Matthew Stafford has three year’s experience as a starting QB in the tough SEC conference. Mark Sanchez, on the other hand, has only started 16 games at USC but may have more upside. There are a few late round sleepers such as Fresno State’s Tom Brandstater and Central Washington’s Mike Reilly. Stafford: Number one overall?

RB: Several running backs will be helped by the continuing trend of the two-back system in the NFL. You have a handful of every-down backs, such as Georgia’s Knowshon Moreno, OSU’s Chris Wells, Connecticut’s Donald Brown and Iowa’s Shonn Greene. After that, there are several backs who will make a nice compliment back, such as Michigan State’s Javon Ringer and Purdue’s Kory Sheets. There’s something for every team in this year’s running back class. Kory Sheets: Could be a mid-round steal

WR: This is how wacky the 2009 draft class is shaping up to be – Michael Crabtree is the unquestioned #1 rated wideout, but may not be the first receiver drafted. Confused? Crabtree had minor ankle surgery in March that prevented him from working out at the NFL Combine or take part in any post-season workouts, including running a 40-yard dash. That has scared some teams away and Missouri’s Jeremy Maclin may go before Crabtree in the top 10. There’s depth in this year’s class with OSU’s Brian Robiskie, UNC’s Hakeem Nicks, Rutgers’ Kenny Britt, as well as some wildcards such as Cal Poly’s Ramses Barden and Penn State’s Derrick Williams.

Barden: Small School Sleeper? 2

Path to the Draft Cont.

Unger: Head of the center class

OL: If you are looking for help on the offensive line, specifically tackle and center, this is the year for you. There are six potential first round tackle prospects in Jason Smith, Andre Smith, Michael Oher, Eugene Monroe, William Beatty and Eben Britton. The centers offer experience and versatility, headed up by Eric Wood, Max Unger and Alex Mack. There are some intriguing late-round tackle prospects, such as Ohio State’s Alex Boone and Illinois’ Xavier Fulton.

LB: Much like the QB’s, if you want an impact linebacker, you’ll need to do it in the first two rounds. Each has their own unique talents, such as the bruising Rey Maualuga, the intensity of James Laurinaitis, and the all-around play of Aaron Curry. USC boasts three potential first rounders in Maualuga, Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews.

Gaps, Schemes, Techniques…Oh Techniques…Oh My! Don’t worry, the coach is in! Unless you’ve played organized football or coach it, you may be a bit confused when hearing the experts using terms like “2-gap player’ or “3-technique.” Have no fear! We’re here to break it down for you. Gaps: Gaps refer to the potential holes each defender is assigned to fill. They are labeled alphabetically “A” through “E” and start from the inside. The A gap is on either side of the center. B gaps are between the guard and tackle. C gaps are outside the tackles and between the tackle and tight end if one is on the line.

The numbers on top represent “techniques” while the letters represent gaps defenders must fill Techniques: These don’t actually refer to a scheme, but rather where a defensive lineman will line up. They are labeled numerically from 1 to 7, and like gaps, start from the inside out. In a 0 technique, the defender lines up directly on top of the center. A 1 technique lines up between the center and guard, but closer to the center. A 2 technique also lines up between the center and guard, but closer to the guard. The pattern continues as 3 and 4 techniques line up between guard and tackle, with 3 closer to the guard and 4 closer to the tackle. A 5 technique lines up outside the tackle – these are typically pass rushing DE’s. On the strong side a 6 technique lines up between the tackle and tight end. 3

Cover Story: Debates at the Top

Moreno: Breakaway Speed?

Monroe: Polished Product

Laurinaitis: Every-Down Intensity

The term “can’t we just all get along?” certainly doesn’t apply in the NFL. As coordinators attempt to trump each other with complex systems, players are becoming more and more “system” oriented. A square peg for one team may be a round one for another. So what does it all mean for the NFL Draft? The biggest effect we’re seeing is teams and experts alike unable to agree on consensus number one talents at the top of their position boards. West Coast offenses don’t necessarily need a QB who can throw the pigskin 50 yards on a tightrope. Teams using a blitzing 3-4 scheme in need Wells: Durability of an outside linebacker will rate DE Brian Orakpo higher Questions than Tyson Jackson because of the way he’ll be utilized – as a pass rusher. To confuse matters even further at the QB position is the limited experience of USC’s Mark Sanchez. Many scouts view him as the complete package after starting only 16 collegiate games. Matthew Stafford has tested his mettle as a four-year starter in the brutal SEC conference. The only thing to agree on is that nobody seems to agree on which one is the #1 QB. Among the ever-important offensive tackle spot, three men seem to be vying for the number one rating. Virginia’s Eugene Monroe may be the most polished package, but Smith: High scouts believe he has less upside than Baylor’s Jason Smith. Had Alabama’s Andre Smith not had a combine Upside meltdown, he would surely be considered in the equation as well. When selecting a player in the first round, teams want as much value as possible. That is what may be holding scouts back from putting heavy-hitter Rey Maualuga at the top of the middle linebacker list. Despite his big-play ability, some question his pass coverage skills. Because Ohio State’s James Laurinaitis is the next best option and can stay on the field for every down, some teams may see more value in him over Maualuga. When breaking down the running backs, you’ll find as many cons as pros with both Chris Wells and Knowshon Maualuga: Moreno. Critics of Wells say he’s injury prone and look at Three-Down the poor history of Big Ten backs in the NFL. Despite LB? Moreno’s amazing talent, some teams are worried about a lack of breakaway speed. What it all boils down to is “Christmas in April” should be especially exciting this year! It may be as unpredictable as any draft in recent history. Who’s the top at each position? Stay tuned to find out! 4

Everything old is new again

NFL coaches dusted off some old playbooks to spice things up on the field during the 2008 season. It began with the “Wildcat” formation, re-introduced by the Miami Dolphins in week three. The Wildcat – a variation of the single wing formation - was promptly copied by all 31 other NFL teams, four CFL teams, and a couple Pop Warner teams in the Hackensack, New Jersey area. The debut saw Ronnie Brown score four TD’s, which opened the floodgates as teams began experimenting with new ways to confuse opposing defenses using unorthodox formations. A quick history lesson: A new rule instituted in 2000 allows any player wearing an eligible number (1-49, 80-89) to line up at the QB position without reporting as an eligible QB. That rule allows for all these play calls that involve a player other than a QB under center. There’s nothing innovative about these novelty acts, however. When the Arizona Cardinals lined up WR Anquan Boldin under center with a fullback and two running backs behind him in a week 12 matchup with the New York Giants, they were simply using a formation that’s been around since the dawn of football – the wishbone. When the Kansas City Chiefs began running a spread offense that saw up to five receivers on the field at one time or ran Larry Johnson out of the “I-Gun” formation, it was offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s way of making do with the players he had available. At the time the Chiefs were down to their third-string quarterback, Tyler Thigpen, and Gailey was trying to mimic the spread offense Thigpen ran in college. Eerily similar to the Run & Shoot made famous in the late 80’s by the Houston Oilers, the Chiefs responded, averaging 24 points a game in the second half of the season.

Ronnie Brown takes a snap from center in the “Wildcat”

So what impact will this have on the 2009 NFL Draft? It depends. If offensive coordinators see enough value in what could be considered an “NFL alternative lifestyle,” you may see a higher premium on athleticism and versatility, rather than traditional role players. Sure, Kory Sheets of Purdue is a talented runner who scored 15 rushing TD’s in his senior campaign, but C.J. Spiller of Clemson threw for two TD’s this year, which means he’s NFL ready for the “Wildcat” offense. As always, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

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Wake Up!!

You don’t want to miss these sleepers! One former NFL general manager claimed he would assign two scouts to each of the later rounds of the draft in order to ensure finding a starter in each round. These late round prospects fly under the radar for one reason or another, but posess all the skills needed to be a solid NFL player. Quarterback Rhett Bomar, Sam Houston State: Bomar is confident, almost to a fault. Some may take it as cockiness, but you want that in your QB. A checkered past at Oklahoma led to Bomar transferring to Sam Houston State and he now faces a double whammy of questionable attitude and quality of opponents. If he keeps his head in the game, Bomar should become a solid NFL QB. Tom Brandstater, Fresno State: Heady QB is a three-time member of the Academic All-WAC team. Brandstater has the tools to be an NFL QB and went through four offensive coordinators in his four years as a Bulldog. Some consistency and pro talent around him may lead to a surprising pro career. Wide Receiver Jarett Dillard, Rice: Dillard owns the NCAA record for receiving TD’s with 60 in his career. Athletic receiver doesn’t wow you physically, but gets the job done.

Jarett Dillard: All-time NCAA TD leader

Tight End Bear Pascoe, Fresno State: This former QB is everything you want in a tight end – he’s tough, strong, has good hands and is a reliable blocker. If he had a better 40 time, he’d be a day one pick.

Pascoe: Don’t you want a TE named “Bear?”

Linebacker Frantz Joesph, Florida Atlantic: Intriguing prospect who transferred from Boston College to be closer to family. Joseph logged 285 tackles in final two seasons.

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This year we hit the mock… 2009 Mock Draft! 1. Detroit Lions Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia: The bottom line is when you invest 40 million dollars in a draft pick, you want it to be a QB. 2. St. Louis Rams Jason Smith, OT, Baylor: Orlando Pace is gone and Smith begins the rebuilding process of the offensive line in St. Louis. 3. Kansas City Chiefs Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest: The Chiefs are switching to a 3-4 defense and Curry will aid tremendously in the transition. 4. Seattle Seahawks Mark Sanchez, QB, USC: Seattle is picking this high because of the loss of Hasselbeck last season. This pick is about the future. 5. Cleveland Browns Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech: The Browns WR situation is in disarray and Crabtree is a steal at number five. 6. Cincinnati Bengals Andre Smith, OT, Alabama: It’s a good bet that the Bengals don’t care as much as other teams about Smith’s off-season melt down. 7. Oakland Raiders Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri: Al Davis loves his speed wide receivers, and gets a game changer in Maclin. 8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Rey Maualuga, LB, USC: Head Coach Jack Del-Rio is a former middle linebacker and won’t pass up on this impact player. 9. Green Bay Packers Brian Orakpo, DE/LB, Texas: Another team making the switch to the 34 defense and looking for key components to make it work. 10. San Francisco 49ers Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia: One of the top tackles falls to the bottom of the top 10, and head coach Mike Singletary pounces.

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Mock Draft Cont. 11. Buffalo Bills Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss: The Bills traded Jason Peters and need a tackle. A match made in heaven for an offense re-creating itself. 12. Denver Broncos B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College: Off-season questions have Raji falling out of the top 10, and he’ll fill the nose tackle need for the Broncos. 13. Washington Redskins Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State: The Redskins will clog up the middle with Haynesworth and grab a pass-rush specialist here. 14. New Orleans Saints Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State: The Saints win games on offense, and need a big back to pair with Reggie Bush now that McCallister is gone. 15. Houston Texans Clay Matthews, LB, USC: Clay’s uncle Bruce Matthews is on the Texans staff and they need help at LB, so this won’t be a stunner. 16. San Diego Chargers Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU: Jackson is custom made as a 3-4 DE, and should be available when the Chargers approach the podium. 17. New York Jets: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State: The Jets rebuilt their defense through trades and free agency, now the offense gets its turn. 18. Denver Broncos Brian Cushing, LB, USC: The Broncos hemorrhaging defense continues to get an upgrade with Cushing joining Raji. 19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss: The Bucs retool their defense with the athletic big body Jerry in the middle. 20. Detroit Lions James Laurinaitis, LB, OSU: The Lions need leaders as much as talent, and Laurinaitis offers a second QB, this time for the defense. 21. Philadelphia Eagles Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia: The Eagles need a compliment to pair with Westbrook now that Buckhalter is gone.

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Mock Draft Cont. 22. Minnesota Vikings Eben Britton, OT, Arizona: The Vikings tried unsuccessfully to sign a right tackle in free agency, so Britton fills the need. 23. New England Patriots Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut: The Patriots don’t have any glaring needs here, but continue to search for Asante Samuel’s replacement. 24. Atlanta Falcons Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State: The Falcons give Matt Ryan another weapon in Pettigrew. 25. Miami Dolphins Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State: Parcells upgrades an already solid defense with the pass rush specialist here. 26. Baltimore Ravens Malcolm Jenkins, CB, OSU: Although the Ravens desperately need a WR, they can’t pass up on Jenkins at 26 and will grab a WR later. 27. Indianapolis Colts Evander “Ziggy” Hood, DT, Missouri: Surprisingly the Colts have a lot of needs, and Hood fills a big one, literally and physically. 28. Buffalo Bills Robert Ayers, DE/OLB, Tennessee: After addressing the offensive line earlier, the Bills look defense in taking Ayers. 29. New York Giants Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers: Britt offers the best package of speed and hands as the Giants look to replace Plaxico Burress. 30. Tennessee Titans Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois: The Titans have taken some hits on defense in the offseason, and begin to retool with Davis. 31. Arizona Cardinals Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut: Arizona just can’t get the RB situation straight, and aging Edgerrin James still wants out. 32. Pittsburg Steelers Max Unger, C/G, Oregon: The Steelers won the Super Bowl with a questionable line last year. Unger makes them even better.

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THE RATINGS RATINGS Quarterback: There’s talent at the top, but mostly career backups after that.

Harper

Harrell

Brandstater

Reilly

Freeman

1. Mark Sanchez, USC: Sanchez is cool as a cucumber and scouts believe he has as much potential as former Trojans Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, if not more. 2. Matthew Stafford, Georgia: Stafford should make a solid pro, but he didn’t blow people away with his career at Georgia. His best season only saw a 61.4% completion rate. 3. Rhett Bomar, Sam Houston State: Bomar looks the part and has the confidence. Strong armed and mobile, the only real question is his attitude. 4. Josh Freeman, Kansas State: Freeman has the physical skills, but some question if he can put it all together in the NFL. The pro game may be too fast for him. 5. Tom Brandstater, Fresno State: Sometimes a player is rated on credit – what you think they’ll do rather than what they’ve accomplished so far. This is one of those cases. Good size and arm strength but three different coordinators in thee year starting. His best football is ahead of him. 6. Mike Reilly, Central Washington: What’s not to like about an experienced, mobile four-year starting QB with good size and strength? He’s a NCAA division II player. Reilly will need a few years to adjust to the pro game, but there’s no reason why he can’t succeed in the NFL. 7. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech: Harrell may not have the prototypical size, but there’s no denying the numbers he put up in college – more than 15,000 yards in three years. Harrell may be a future starter in a west-coast system. 8. Nate Davis, Ball State: Davis is quite an enigma. He put up two productive seasons in the MAC, but fell apart at the end of his career. He’s the boom or bust selection in this group. 9. Cullen Harper, Clemson: Harper needs to be coached up if he’s going to leave his mark in the NFL. Good size and strength, Harper has great upside if he’s paired with the right coach. 10. Hunter Cantwell, Louisville: Cantwell has the physical tools and moxie you want in a quarterback, but wasn’t able to put it all together in his one year of starting at Louisville. He’s a raw prospect who will be given the chance to grow in the pros.

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Running Back: There’s something for everyone this year, from the top down.

Brown

Johnson

Ringer

Jennings

Moreno

1. Knowshon Moreno, Georgia: His balance and shiftiness evoke memories of Barry Sanders. When you’re mentioned in the same breath, you have to be at the top of the rankings. Moreno is a complete back who can catch and pick up the blitz, and should be a continuous 1,000 yard back in the NFL. 2. Donald Brown, Connecticut: Like Moreno, Brown is the complete package in the backfield and led the NCAA in rushing in 2008 with 2,083 yards. He can run over or around you, and should be a starter from day one. 3. Rashad Jennings, Liberty: Most people didn’t know about Jennings until he turned heads at the Senior Bowl. They do now. Jennings transferred from Pittsburgh to be closer to his sick father, so it’s tough to ding him for the small school experience. Jennings runs like a mini- Brandon Jacobs. 4. LeSean McCoy, Pittsburgh: McCoy is a homerun threat every time he touches the ball. The one concern is his size, at 5’11” and 200 pounds, but he held up through 584 carries in the past two years, and should be fine in the NFL. 5. Chris Wells, OSU: A great combination of size and speed, but the ghost of Big Ten’s past catch up to “Beanie” here. The past failings of Big Ten running backs and Wells injury history knock him down in our rankings. He’s a physical runner, which may add to future injuries. When healthy, Wells is one of the best. 6. Jeremiah Johnson, Oregon: Johnson is a bit undersized at 5’9”, 200 pounds, but is a special player who can score a TD any time the ball in is his hands. May never be a full-time back, but should shine in a combo situation. 7. Andre Brown, North Carolina State: Much like Wells, Brown is a power back who has a history of injuries. Surprisingly shifty for a bigger back, Brown has the chance to do great things at the pro level. 8. Shonn Greene, Iowa: After being suspended from Iowa in 2007, he returned in 2008 and responded with 1,850 yards rushing. One-dimensional power back has a bright future if he can avoid repeating his past. 9. Kory Sheets, Purdue: Sheets is a promising, versatile back coming from a passhappy offense. At worst he should be a productive 3rd down back; at best, he could become a Tiki Barber type back. 10. Javon Ringer, Michigan State University: Ringer is a small, shifty back who held up to the punishment of two years as a full-time starter in the Big Ten. Like Sheets, his original value should be on 3rd down, with more to come as he adjusts to the NFL. Late Round Watch List: Gatrell Johnson, Colorado State: Big bruiser will plow through a line. Glenn Coffee, Alabama: One-year wonder could be something special. Herb Donaldson, Western Illinois: Ultra-productive back from I-AA school. 11

Fullback: Many teams continue the evolution of the fullback into the “H-Back.”

Williams

Fiammetta

Mailei

Southerland Johnson

1. Quinn Johnson, LSU: Traditional fullback who will knock opposing defenders out of their cleats. Johnson showed he’s more than one-dimensional at the Senior Bowl with a rushing TD and the first reception of the game. 2. Tony Fiammetta, Syracuse: Fiammetta is a versatile player in the H-back role, having played FB and TE at Syracuse. He’s also a leader in the locker room. 3. Brannan Southerland, Georgia: Southerland is an old school FB who doesn’t do much besides block, but was named team captain in 2008, a rarity for the position. He’s coming off a broken foot, so there are injury concerns. 4. Marcus Mailei, Weber State: Possibly the most physical blocker in the draft, Mailei may not have the traditional FB size, but does have the attitude and skill set needed to succeed. 5. Eddie Williams, Idaho: Williams is the new breed of FB who projects as the H-back, which means runner/receiver/blocker. Wide Receiver: Much like last year, this is a deep and talented class.

Robiskie

Dillard

Britt

Harvin

Barden

1. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech: Crabtree is a phenom with great hands, body control and route running. His winning TD catch against Texas was as clutch as you can get. The only red flag is ankle surgery in March, but he seems to be healing nicely. 2. Jeremy Maclin, Missouri: Maclin is a threat any time he has the ball in his hands, whether it’s receiving, rushing or in the return game. His stats may be a product of the spread offense utilized at Missouri, but he’s a dangerous weapon and will continue to be one in the pros. 3. Kenny Britt, Rutgers: Britt may offer the best combination of size and speed in this year’s group of receivers. Britt has been labeled a diva, but Britt’s coaches say that’s not the case.

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4. Brian Robiskie, OSU: An NFL coach’s son, Robiskie is a classic possession receiver who does all the right things. He’ll never be a number one, but will eventually be a very solid number two receiver. 5. Percy Harvin, Florida: Harvin is a less polished version of Jeremy Maclin – he’s a playmaker. Used as a receiver and running back by the Gators, he’ll be used mostly in the slot in the pros. 6. Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina: Nicks was nicked up in the off-season and put on 15 pounds, so he’s slipped a little in the ratings. Classic possession receiver with good size. 7. Darrius Heyward-Bey: Heyward-Bey is a burner with major question marks about his hands. One thing you don’t want in a receiver is questionable hands. If he’s coached up, Heyward-Bey could eventually become a legitimate #1. 8. Brandon Tate, North Carolina: Tate would have been considered a top wide receiver in this class had he not torn his ACL last October. Great size and speed combination. If he returns to form, some team could get a steal. 9. Ramses Barden, Cal Poly: Barden is the most physically gifted receiver in this year’s draft. At 6’6” and 225 pounds, he dominated lesser competition, and came up big against Wisconsin. Barden freelances as a route runner, but patience will pay off big for whoever drafts the big man. 10. Jarett Dillard, Rice: Dillard is as polished as they come with 60 career TD receptions. High quality player on the field and in the locker room. Tight End: Not a lot of traditional tight ends this year, most are pass-oriented.

Casey

Cook

Coffman

Hill

Nelson

1. Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State: Most complete tight end available this year. Willing blocker and soft hands as receiver. Doesn’t have blazing speed to stretch the field. 2. Shawn Nelson, Southern Miss: Nelson is a terrific athlete who can get down the field in a hurry. Solid receiver who peaked his senior year with 53 receptions. Needs to improve as a blocker to become elite TE in the NFL. 3. James Casey, Rice: Casey is an athletic tight end who was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 2003 before deciding on his future in football. Top receiving TE option with 111 receptions for 1,329 yards in 2008. Cut in the Greg Olsen mold. 4. Jared Cook, South Carolina: Cook is a Dustin Keller-type TE who will line up in the slot as often as an in-line blocker.

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5. Cornelius Ingram, Florida: Ingram missed all of 2008 with a torn ACL. Good receiver that may fit better in the H-back position. Extremely athletic, and pass oriented teams may see an upside to Ingram’s versatility. 6. Chase Coffman, Missouri: Coffman was the 2008 John Mackey Award winner as the top tight end in the nation. Caught 90 balls as a senior after splitting time with Martin Rucker in previous years. Coffman needs to bulk up to become a complete tight end. 7. Bear Pascoe, Fresno State: Good size and speed. Pascoe caught 85 balls in the previous two years for the Bulldogs. Gritty players that teammates and coaches will love. 8. Travis Beckum, Wisconsin: Beckum caught 75 balls his junior year before breaking his leg in 2008. There are questions about his health and his maturity, so he has something to prove at the pro level. 9. Anthony Hill, North Carolina State: Hill is on the opposite end of the spectrum of this class as blocking is his specialty. He’ll get drafted as a #2 TE, but could be more – he caught 45 balls his junior year before a knee injury wiped out 2007. 10. Brian Mandeville, Northeastern: Great combination of size and speed at 6’6’” and 250 pounds. This mid-round pick does nothing spectacular, but could develop into a quality starter. Offensive Tackle: An extremely deep class with five likely going in round one.

Britton

Oher

A. Smith

Monroe

J. Smith

1. Jason Smith, Baylor: Smith is the prototype left tackle – big and athletic with the speed to handle the edge rushers. He appears to have the highest upside of all the tackles. 2. Eugene Monroe, Virginia: Monroe is the most polished of the tackle class, and will make an immediate impact. Versatile and can play multiple positions. Should be an allpro for years to come. 3. Andre Smith, Alabama: Perhaps no bigger “boom-or-bust” pick in the 2009 draft. Huge man who has the athleticism to play left tackle if he can stay in shape. Showed up to the combine out of shape, then left without notifying anyone. 4. Michael Oher, Mississippi: Oher is an athletic left tackle who is still improving. His troubled past is well documented and may cost him a few draft slots in round one. Quiet persona to the point where people question if he has the attitude to survive in the trenches.

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5. Eben Britton, Arizona: Gritty run-blocker who doesn’t have the athleticism to play left tackle, will have to move to the right side in the pros. The next five: William Beatty, Connecticut; Jamon Merideth, South Carolina; Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma; Fenuki Tupou, Oregon; Alex Boone, OSU. Offensive Guard: The squeeze continues as now the centers are moving inside as well.

Robinson

Johnson

Levitre

Parker

Urbik

1. Herman Johnson, LSU: Mountain of a man, 6’8” 380 lbs. Johnson worked out at tackle during the senior bowl, a compliment to this behemoth. Wherever coaches decide to play him, he’ll dominate. 2. Duke Robinson, Oklahoma: Robinson is a load when he gets moving, and can engulf linebackers at the next level. The only question is his athleticism. 3. Kraig Urbik, Wisconsin: Urbik is a solid, steely athlete who can play guard or tackle. He capped off a stellar career with a solid week at the Senior Bowl. 4. Andy Levitre, Oregon State: Levitre was a solid tackle in college but his size will require a move to guard. 5. Anthony Parker, Tennessee: Large, athletic and versatile, but an injury slowed Parker in his final year. The next five: Louis Vasquez, Texas Tech; Ray Feinga, BYU; Andy Kemp, Wisconsin; Jamie Thomas, Maryland; C.J. Davis, Pittsburgh. Center: Day one will result in several starting centers from this class.

Shipley

Unger

Caldwell

Wood

Mack

1. Max Unger, Oregon: All-conference player all four years, two at tackle and two at center. Unger is smart, intense, and gives it his all every play.

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2. Alex Mack, California: Mack is a heady player with great size for the position. Scouts think he might move to guard. 3. Eric Wood, Louisville: Wood is the nastiest center in this group and thrives on run blocking. Has some catching up to do with pass blocking, but has the skill set to succeed. 4. A. Q. Shipley, Penn State: Shipley was named the best center in college football in 2008. He’s a tough player and a leader in the locker room. 5. Antoine Caldwell, Alabama: Caldwell has the tools, but character issues will cause him to slide a bit on draft day. Defensive End: We include the “tweeners” that may change positions in this group.

Ayers

Gilbert

Orakpo

English

Maybin

1. Everette Brown, Florida State: Brown is the most complete pass rusher in this group and probably projects to OLB in a 3-4 defense. 2. Tyson Jackson, LSU: Jackson gets the nod here because he’s a complete DE who can play in a 4-3 or 3-4. He probably won’t ever be a double-digit sack guy, but he’ll show up to work every day and give you a consistent effort. 3. Brian Orakpo, Texas: He’s injury prone, disappears at times in games, and could be the dreaded “workout warrior.” Orakpo is talented and chiseled, but there are many questions about how he’ll translate in the pro game. 4. Aaron Maybin, Penn State: At only 235 pounds, Maybin projects to an OLB in the NFL. He’ll need to bulk up to be more than a situational – albeit disruptive – pass rusher. 5. Larry English, Northern Illinois: English is a dangerous pass-rusher, racking up 32.5 career sacks in college. An undersized “tweener” who may move to OLB. 6. Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech: If the NFL Gods created a DE, he would look just like Michael Johnson. Despite having the physical tools, some question the work ethic. One Draft IQ scout says Johnson just needs to improve his decision making. Time will tell for this boom or bust prospect. 7. Robert Ayers, Tennessee: Ayers had a great senior season and finished it off with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, but we’re always wary of these one-year wonders. 8. Paul Kruger, Utah: If a team misses out on Tyson Jackson, Kruger is the next best option when looking for a complete DE.

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9. Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State: Gilbert stands 6’6” and 285 lbs. and is tremendously athletic and agile for his size. Could be a mid-round steal if a coaching staff helps him realize his full potential. 10. Connor Barwin, Cincinnati: Barwin switched positions from tight end to DE his senior year and racked up 10 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Team that drafts this versatile athlete will have a hard decision as to where to play him. Defensive Tackle: Nothing to write home about with this average class.

1. B.J. Raji, Boston College: Raji is a difference maker and a load, but buyer beware – he missed all of 2007 due to academic suspension, and has had trouble keeping his weight around the 330-340 range. 2. Peria Jerry, Mississippi: Extremely athletic and talented, Jerry has struggled with injuries throughout his college career and must stay healthy to make it at the pro level. 3. Evander “Ziggy” Hood, Missouri: Hood has a non-stop motor and while he isn’t that game-changing player, he is worth grabbing early because of the consistent effort and high quality attitude. 4. Fii Moala, USC: Moala is the cousin of Baltiore DT Haloti Nata – his bloodline is impressive. Moala needs to be more consistent but could develop into a Casey Hampton-type player. 5. Ron Brace, Boston College: Brace won’t offer much of a pass rush, but is a mountain in the middle and will tie up blockers in the middle for the front seven. 6. Mitch King, Iowa: King may have to move to DE at only 280 pounds, but opposing coaches say when he’s in the game, he must be accounted for. Wherever he plays, he’ll make things happen. 7. Sen’Derrick Marks, Auburn: Marks is a bit of an enigma. He’s a tremendous athlete but could have benefited from another year at Auburn. Will need the right coaching staff to keep him motivated. 8. Alex Magee, Purdue: Good motor and athletic frame with good build, but very inconsistent. May work best in a line-rotation situation. 9. Terrance Taylor, Michigan: Taylor is a stout run defender who falls in that “if you miss Ron Brace he’s the next best option” category. 10. Sammie Lee Hill, Stillman: Hill stands 6’4” and 330 pounds, but scouts aren’t sure how he’ll do against a much higher level of competition in the NFL. Surprisingly agile for a big man, Hill may turn some heads at the pro level.

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Linebacker: Very talented group with many different styles to choose from.

Sintim

Matthews

Brinkley

Curry

McRath

1. Aaron Curry, Wake Forest: Curry is the most complete linebacker available, and has been called the “safest pick in the draft.” He has the technique to drop into coverage and the speed to cover and tackle sideline-to-sideline. 2. Rey Maualuga, USC: Rey will make his bid to become the next “Ray” as in Ray Lewis. Heavy hitter with a few questions about his coverage ability, but no doubt a game-changer. 3. James Laurinaitis, Ohio State: Laurinaitis is an intelligent three-down player and a leader on and off the field. Not the big hitter that Maualuga is, but more complete in coverage. 4. Clay Matthews, USC: The best bloodlines in this class – father Clay, uncle Bruce and even Grandfather Clay Sr. all played in the NFL. Self-made player who was a walkon at USC and leaves as a first-round prospect. Although overshadowed by Trojan teammates Maualuga and Brian Cushing, he may end up being the best pro of the three. 5. Brian Cushing, USC: Somewhere along the line, USC became “Linebacker U.” Cushing offers solid tackling and a good combination of speed and strength. 6. Clint Sintim, Virginia: Sintim is a big-time pass rusher who is surprisingly solid in coverage. Racked up 245 tackles, 30 for loss, and 27 sacks in his four year career at Virginia. 7. Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina: Brinkley had a tremendous year in 2006, then injured his knee in 2007. He was recovered in 2008, but played above his normal weight, so his best football is in front of him. 8. Gerald McRath, Southern Mississippi: At 225 pounds, McRath may have to move from his middle-linebacker position in college to the weak side in the pros. Tackling machine who goes sideline-to-sideline. 9. Scott McKillop, Pittsburgh: A bit small at 6’1” but production speaks for itself – 288 tackles in his final two seasons. 10. Marcus Freeman, Ohio State: Freeman may play faster than teammate James Laurinaitis. Versatile LB can play all three positions and should be a productive starter in the pros.

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Cornerback: For three years in a row the corner class is loaded with talent.

Byrd

Butler

Moore

Davis

Johnson

1. Darius Butler, Connecticut: Butler is one of the top cover corners in the draft and gets the nod here because of his size. At 5’11” he can complete against the taller receivers in the league. Added value as a return man and even played receiver in college. 2. Vontae Davis, Illinois: Davis has the knock of not being big on practice, but turns it on when its game time. If the right coach motivates him, he could be an all-pro for years to come. Surprisingly physical for a corner and should develop into a shut down CB. 3. Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State: Jenkins may move to safety in the pros due to lack of speed. Jenkins is a physical corner who is susceptible to the deep ball – another reason safety might be a better spot for him. Leader on the field. 4. D.J. Moore, Vanderbilt: The only knock on Moore is his size at 5’10”. When paired up with receivers his size, he is a shut down corner. Moore can also return kicks. 5. Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest: Just like Moore, Smith stands a short 5’9” and will have problems covering big, tall receivers in the NFL. 15 interceptions in the last two years show he’s a playmaker. 6. Sean Smith, Utah: Smith is a great combination of size and speed and fits perfect in a cover 2 system. Could also move to safety for teams who don’t employ a lot of zone. 7. Coye Francies, San Jose State: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie set the stage for Francies to get drafted early – with a similar wiry frame and small-school competition. Francies has some character issues with a former gun charge. 8. Jarius Byrd, Oregon: Son of former Chargers great Gill Bryd, Jarius is a strong, physical corner who should thrive in a zone system. 9. Asher Allen, Georgia: Allen is a work in progress after three years at Georgia, but could develop into a quality, shut down corner with patience and coaching. 10. Domonique Johnson, Jackson State: Johnson has all the tools – size, speed and agility – to become a quality NFL cornerback. Will need to ride the bench while learning his craft, but could be a steal in a few years.

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Safety: A weak class this year, but there are a few studs at the top.

Delmas

Bruton

Chung

Johnson

Pegues

1. William Moore, Missouri: Moore followed up a breakout junior year with an injury plagued senior year that has scouts guessing. With his size and speed combination, Moore should put it all together in the pros. 2. Rashad Johnson, Alabama: The only thing holding Johnson back is his size. He’s a solid defender who can’t always stand up to the run at 190 lbs. Johnson was the leader of a stout Alabama defense. 3. Louis Delmas, Western Michigan: Delmas is a classic center fielder who sometimes goes for the big hit instead of wrapping up his opponent. 4. Derek Pegues, Mississippi State: Being called a “mini-Bob Sanders” is never, ever a bad thing. Pegues has solid coverage skills and will lay out receivers. His height (5’10”) and size (195 lbs) may prevent him from doling out as much punishment in the pros. Pegues completes the package with added value as a return man. 5. Sherrod Martin, Troy: The big question is whether Martin is a corner or safety. We list him as a safety because that’s what he played in college – but he could easily make the transition to corner. Solid cover skills and decent tackler. 6. Patrick Chung, Oregon: Chung is a heavy hitter but a liability in coverage. Fouryear starter will be an in-the-box safety at the pro level. 7. Chip Vaughn, Wake Forest: Physical hitter who racked up 192 tackles in final two years at Wake. Will get beat deep occasionally, but decent cover skills when the ball stays in front of him. 8. David Bruton, Notre Dame: Tremendous size and speed – but hasn’t put it all together yet. Will need to play special teams as he develops into a complete safety. 9. Darcel McBath, Texas Tech: McBath is a rangy safety who plays bigger than his size (195 lbs.). Could be a solid nickel back and develop in to a quality starter in a year or two. 10. Michael Hamlin, Clemson: Four-year starter who caught the inconsistent bug his senior year, something the entire Clemson team seemed to catch in 2008. Has the football IQ to make up for average speed.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

I must refer to this year’s draft guide as the “Thesis Edition” as I complete my final semester of graduate school and finish writing the final chapters of my thesis - all as “Christmas in April” rapidly approaches. In the midst of the insanity that is my life right now, I ask myself, just what would possess anyone to spend so much time, often into the wee hours of the morning, researching college football players? It’s the lure of Christmas, of course, and it continues to thrive, no matter what the situation, no matter what the sacrifice might be, and no matter how hopeless your team may appear to be. I hope you enjoy this year’s draft guide, and more importantly, the 2009 NFL draft! I apologize for any inconsistencies or errors in this year’s preview – blame it on a lack of sleep and temporary insanity.

TY2K Productions would like to once again thank Draft IQ, Inc. partner Scott Schwindt for his contributions to the 2009 NFL Draft Preview. Each year we delve deeper into the crazy world of NFL scouting and rating prospects until our heads are swimming. It’s good to share the passion/insanity with such a good friend.

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Report Card

Somebody has to keep us honest! Our grades for last year’s projection of the 2008 NFL rookie class: Chris Johnson, RB (Drafted by Tennessee): “If used correctly, he’ll pile up yardage in the NFL” was our official prediction on Johnson. A pile of yardage and one rookie of the year honor later, we’ll call him a definite hit. Trevor Laws, DT (Drafted by Philadelphia): The 2nd round pick didn’t crack the starting lineup but saw significant time in a D-line rotation. We thought Laws would make an impact sooner, but…wait for it…his time will come. Peyton Hillis, FB (Drafted by Denver): We reminded our readers that it was Hillis, not Darren McFadden or Felix Jones, who led the Razorbacks in receptions in 2007. Hillis went on to make the most of a feature role with the Broncos before breaking his leg. Jonathan Hefney, S (Signed as college free agent by Tampa Bay): We liked Hefney enough to rate him as our #3 safety. He went undrafted and signed as a college free agent with Tampa Bay. The Bus cut him and he joined the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad. Though we may not have heard the last of him, for now, he’s a miss. Rashard Mendenhall, RB (Drafted by Pittsburgh): A broken shoulder in game four wiped out most of Mendenhall’s rookie season. Injuries to our top rated running back and Darren McFadden make it tough to evaluate if our controversial rating for Mendenhall was a hit or miss. Kevin O’Connell, QB (Drafted by New England): We expected (and still do) O’Connell to develop into a mobile Philip Rivers, and apparently so do the Patriots, spending a 3rd round selection on the Aztek QB.

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