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ALPHABETICAL LISTING - NAMES ADDED DAILY, CHECK BACK REGULARLY!!!  NICK EASON (6�4� 295) DT CLEMSON � If you like weight-room guys, Nick is your man. Lifts the bar 29-30 times, and also has a 750-lb squad and 465-pound bench press to his credit. Has also increased his draft status immensely by running in the 4.95-5.00 range. Injuries/health issues are the big problem as Eason has had to endure both Achilles and ACL problems during his Tiger career, along with an irregular heartbeat. Many thought his level of play over the past two years had been down from his pre-injury sophomore campaign. Is aggressive on the field and does well v. the running game. Some would like him better at an end position, but that would probably be as a stay-at-home type in a 3-4. Is good in one-gap scheme, but has trouble taking up enough space to be a two-gapper. Great character and a smart individual. Scouts are impressed enough with the workout numbers enough that Eason will get early second-round consideration with an outside shot at being selected at the end of Round 1. JEFF FAINE (6'3" 299) C NOTRE DAME - One of the reprecussions of Barrett Robbins now infamous Super Bowl episode could result in the Raiders selecting Faine with one of their back-to-back picks at the end of the first round - which would be noteworthy since centers are rarely selected in the opening round. Helped his cause further in on-campus workouts, doing 25-225 lb reps along with an impressive 4.93 40 and a "36 vertical leap. Bypassed fifth year of eligibility to enter the NFL Draft after advisors notified him that he would be a second-round selection. Made several All-American teams this season and is considered one of the best run-blockers available, and always finishes his block. Not great strength in the legs, but compensates with the upper-body and is very quick of the snap. Also capable of playing guard as well as center. Gets high marks for his leadership skills, openly adapting to the methods of new Irish coach Tyrone Willingham.JUSTIN FARGAS (6�1� 205) RB USC � Even though there isn't much to his college resume, no one's stock has climbed nearly as much in recent weeks, with 'Boomer' Rang now projecting Fargas to go to Oakland with the final pick of the first round. Absolutely dropped jaws at the combines with a 4.28 40-clocking that left scouts in awe, and also posted 27 225-lb repetitions. Rushed for just over 1000 yards during his entire college career, but saved his best for last with a 20 carry, 122 yard effort v. a tough Iowa defense at the Orange Bowl which included what was described as a �silky smooth� 50 yard TD run up the middle. That was followed by an impressive week at the Senior Bowl, where scouts were impressed on how Fargas could speed into another gear, along with the ability to move the pile despite his somewhat slight frame. As of early February Fargas had risen to the second round on NFLDRAFTBLITZ' value board. Fargas was rated among the best RB�s in the nation back in 1997, averaging 9.5 yards per carry along with 82 TD�s in a storied prep career in Sherman Oaks, CA � but elected to attend Michigan after SC coach John Robinson was let go. Justin�s college career got off to a bad start in 1998 after sustaining a broken right leg so bad (was compared to a car-accident injury) that amputation was considered. After three operations (including the leg being re-broken, along with two plates and 12 screws being inserted) returned to the Michigan squad in 2000, but was asked to move to safety before Fargas decided to transfer to SC. Was splitting carries with fellow senior Sultan McCullough early in the 2002 season, but finally won the featured back role and rushed for 100+ yards in four of his final five games, finishing with 715 yards on 161 carries (4.4 avg). Is the son of actor Antonio Fargas (Baretta/Starsky and Hutch).DRAYTON FLORENCE (6�0� 200) CB TUSKEGEE � This will mark the second straight year the Division II Alabama school has produced an NFL draft pick at this position. Last year Roosevelt Williams was selected in the third round by Chicago, and may challenge for a starting spot in the Bears secondary this season. The feeling among many is that Florence may have more potential, as he has equal size and better speed. Ran 4.40 in the combines along with a 38� vertical and 21 reps of 225-lbs, an improvement from 18 when first arriving at Tuskegee after transferring from Tennessee-Chattanooga, where he also started for two years. Is an excellent student-athlete working towards a degree in social work. Is still considered somewhat raw and will have to deal with the obvious jump in competition. In the third round in most mock drafts although the great workout numbers could get him in the tail end of Round 2, with San Diego one of several possible destinations.GEORGE FOSTER (6�6� 320) OT GEORGIA � One of the better athletic prospects at his position, a great run-blocker with a lot of upside. Explodes off line, handling speed rushers a possible weakness. Senior season short-circuited before it began due to a badly broken hand suffered in a car accident. Returned by mid-season, but was stuck on the depth chart behind fellow Senior Jon Stinchcomb. Was also wearing a club-sized cast on his hand, which prevented him from finishing blocks and made him a one-armed player. Also had to deal with ankle and knee problems the previous year. Even though still limited at the Senior Bowl and the combine, scouts still came away impressed with Foster, who shows a nice leg drive and good balance. Will not make an immediate splash, but will be a good developmental prospect for whomever drafts him. Should go in either the second, or at the very worse third round.JUSTIN GAGE (6�4� 210) WR MISSOURI � Tall rangy receiver was previously thought to be in the J.J Stokes mode � as in a big target with good hands, but with suspect speed. That is until Gage was clocked at 4.45 with a 40-inch vertical leap in a recent workout. Had never been officially timed in the 40 before that, but most estimates had him in the 4.65 range. Has also played basketball for Missouri and is also a former quarterback. Caught 156 passes in his final 23 collegiate games for just under 2000 yards, including nine scores this past season. Senior season ended with being named first-team All-Conference. Will make catches over the middle and has the body control to make sideline grabs. Has tremendous wingspan and will contribute in the blocking game. If the workout numbers are legit, look for Gage to rise to late-second/early third round status.TALMAN GARDNER (6�2� 200) WR FLORIDA ST � Had surpassed teammate Anquan Boldin on draft boards and was projected as a second round selection before a recent charge of marijuana possession along with carrying a concealed/loaded handgun, after he and a teammate were observed driving slowing through an area of state office buildings � not a good idea these days. And the charge is little more serious than a traffic ticket and the timing couldn�t had been worse. On the field, Gardner was already perceived as a bit of an enigma, and an inconsistent performer. A six-catch, 140 yard, three TD performance v. Maryland in 2001 gives some idea of the potential/upside. Came to FSU as a highly-regarded recruit, being rated among the top three receivers in the country. Has very good top-end speed (4.45) with a 34 � vertical and a 9�8� broad jump. Although Gardner has short arms (29 3/8�), he also has good hands and will out-leap defenders for jump-balls. Finished his senior season with 37 catches for 619 yards and six touchdowns and also saw kickoff return duty for the Seminoles.KEVIN GARRETT (5�9 190) CB SMU � Has recovered enough from a badly sprained knee suffered in the 2002 season to move up the draft boards, from being projected as a fourth rounder initially to being listed as going #51 overall in The Sporting News Draft Preview. Some think he could even be top-40 material. Runs a legitimate 4.3, rivaling Terence Newman for the fastest at the position. Also has a 35� vertical along with a 10�9� long-jump. Is cousin of Quentin Jammer, the overall #5 pick last season. A couple of inches shorter than optimal for the position, and has been out-jumped for position on occasion. Exceptional covering man-to-man, and has shown the capabilities of keeping up with anyone. Good at anticipating, and jumping on under routes. Will get physical, but could use some more strength so he�s not muscled around by the big boys. Will also have to improve some technique to make the jump from lower D-1 ball to the pros. Should be fine on special teams, blocking four kicks in his career.JASON GESSER (6� 190�) QB WASHINGTON ST. � Whereas Ryan Leaf and Drew Bledsoe before him rose to the top of the NFL draft based on height, ability, and arm strength, Gesser goes more like Ty Detmer coming out of BYU over a decade ago � a huge winner who got big-time props for stats as well as wins and losses, but whose numbers simply do not project out to being an NFL starter. After seeing part-time action as a freshman, Gesser went on to throw for 68 touchdowns v. just 31 INT�s his final three years at WAZZU. Runs a 4.9, and is an above average athlete who is agile and instinctive. And as proven late last year, a tough player who even if injured you are going to have to get wild horses to run him off the field. However, 6� even usually has the scouts running for cover, and Gesser simply does not have the big-time arm strength needed for the NFL. Went 24-0 with two state titles as a prep for a prep powerhouse in Honolulu, threw for 2,368 yards and 29 TD�s his senior season there. Some feel Gesser does not even get drafted, but still look for him to go in the 5th or 6th round by a team satisified with it�s current starter looking for someone who could be satisfied being a #3 QB for a couple of years with designs on being a capable #2.QUENTIN GRIFFIN (5�7� 190) RB OKLAHOMA � You would think 1884 yards rushing, a 6.6 rushing avg., and just missing out on Billy Sims all-time OU rushing record would get this guy more love with the draft-niks. Not to mention Q saved some of his best work for the big games, including 248 yds and two scores in a win over Texas this year, a 6 TD game v. the same Longhorns in 2000, 147 yards and a score this year v. Texas A&M, and finally 144 yards on the ground in the Sooners rout over Washington St. in the Rose Bowl. Unfortunately, the 5�7� is going to continue to scare scouts away. Still there is much to like, including Warrick Dunn-like quickness and elusiveness, making him hard to see and tackle. Also has good hands and is an accomplished receiver out of the backfield. Many have Q lasting until the second day, which I have a feeling will make him an outstanding value to some team as no worse than a third-down contributor.DEJUAN GROCE (5�9� 190) CB/KR NEBRASKA � If Groce could climb his way into the third or even second round of this year�s draft, it will be more for his return ability than that playing defense. It is said that St. Louis could (always looking for gamebreakers) could have a serious interest. Averaged 17.0 on 43 punt returns along with an incredible four scores this past season, averaged 14.2 on 33 returns as a junior. Playing cornerback, intercepted seven passes over the past two seasons. Is said to be better covering receivers man-to-man than in a zone package. Size is an obvious match-up concern, but makes up for it somewhat with a solid 4.48 clocking in the 40. Good pick for those looking for an athlete/special teams/nickel back type.JORDAN GROSS (6�5� 306) OT UTAH � Was impressive enough at the combines to guarantee a top-ten overall selection. Runs 40 at 5.17, but it�s his strength that opens eyes. Hold school hang clean (which tests �explosive strength�) at 416 pounds. Squats 550, benches 395. Recorded 28 225 lb reps at the combines. Stock has soared after going into the 2002 season being considered as a �second-tier� O-line prospect. In fact many now have him as the #1 O-lineman on the entire board. Gross did not allow a sack in either his junior or senior seasons, and averaged 11.7 pancake blocks per game this past season. Went from Honorable Mention to first-team All-American in �02. Gross is also very smart, understands the game and is a top competitor, and is adept at both pass and run blocking. Versatility is another strong suit, being capable of playing either guard or tackle position at the next level. Downside is that while he has good size and athletic ability, he may not be in the same class as a Leonard Davis or Mike Williams from last year. There are also some concerns about the level of competition he played against in the Mountain West Conference. Will be 23 on Opening Day in September.REX GROSSMAN (6�1� 220) QB FLORIDA � Despite widespread reports that he may actually be shorter, Grossman measured at an even 6'1" at the Indianapolis combines, but may have set himself back with some less than impressive workouts. Many mock drafts have Grossman going with the 29th overall pick to Green Bay, although he could go higher as in #20 by Denver or even #11 by Baltimore. It is also possible that Green Bay could trade up to assure his services. I don�t know if being the hand-picked successor to Brett Favre would be good for Grossman. Tommy Maddox was similarly draft in 1992 to eventually succeed John Elway in Denver, but wound up failing beneath the weight of expectations setting back his career progress by several seasons. Grossman grades better as an NFL prospect in comparison to fellow Florida alums Danny Wuerffel and Shane Matthews. Although size, a low sidearm delivery, and lack of scrambling mobility are listed as negatives, Grossman does display great arm strength and accuracy as displayed in a recent ESPN piece where Rex consistently hit cardboard targets that were placed 25-40 yards away on the field. The drill was conducted by 18-year NFL veteran Steve DeBerg. Grossman also shows a lot of poise in the pocket along with a quick release. Had an outstanding sophomore season (66%, 34 TD�s v. 12 INT�s) at UF as a Heisman runner-up, but was inconsistant this past year (57%, 22 TD, 17 INT) in part due to the transition from Steve Spurrier to current coach Ron Zook. Was regarded as the top quarterback in the midwest, and among the top nine QB�s coming out of high school by one publication.MARIO HAGGAN (6�2� 250) ILB MISSISSIPPI ST � Versatile explosive performer who has played both outside and inside back during his Bulldog career while recording 359 tackles and 33 TFL�s. Also saw time at DE in MSU�S unique 5-1-5 alignment. Aggressive, strong player who also has a mean streak and is a vocal leader. Stock dropped after a somewhat disappointing season for both himself and the team. Has big-play capability for leveling ball-carriers and forcing fumbles. Speed is the big problem, with the 40-time being recorded anywhere from 4.88 to an even 5-flat. When going forward, Haggan is fine and will defeat blockers on the way to the ball carrier. Going backwards and going back into pass coverage is a problem though, and has problems keeping up with a receiver downfield. It�s an area he�s not comfortable in. Most feel his best chance of success is inside as a two-down run-stuffer in a 3-4, although some feel he could fill in as a situational end rusher in that alignment as well. Projects as 3rd or 4th round prospect.KEN HAMLIN (6�2� 210) S ARKANSAS � Was characterized as a character risk due to a pair of DUI�s in a 14-month period (second-time without license/insurance with resulted in 10 days of jail-time), but has apparently answered those questions enough with personnel people that he is listed as a solid mid-second round candidate. His talent on the field is without question, posting three consecutive 100+ tackle seasons (including 159 in 14 games in �02) and was considered the best free safety in the country. Hamlin quarterbacks the defensive backfield with a fierce intimidating presence, much in the mold of former Bronco safety Steve Atwater. Has great size along with adequate (4.55) speed. Not noted for man skills, but a pure safety and great tackler with exceptional range. Played running back (16 TD�s in senior season) as well as safety as a prep, and was a senior class vice president.KWAME HARRIS (6�7� 320) OT STANFORD � First name rhymes with fame, pronounced differently than NBA player Kwame Brown. Decision to leave school for the NFL was definitely not based on lack of grades. Was an honor student in advanced placement classes registering a 3.7 GPA along with a 1180 SAT coming out of high school. The other interesting feature of this highly recruited lineman was his immense interest in music, which is not what one may think out of a then 17 year old. The Jamican-born Harris is heavily into the violin and piano, traits that looked somewhat weird as he was featured in a 1999 Sporting News recruiting story. And one other thing, Harris also came out of high school as the best O-lineman in the country, as well as one of the top ten recruits in the country. Kwame is still heavily involved in the academics at Stanford, and plans on becoming a surgeon one day. But considering the Cardinal bottomed out this past season at 2-9, along with the fact that Harris is already considered the best offensive tackle that would be available for the draft along with Utah�s Jordan Gross � Harris� decision to turn pro was a no-brainer. In fact he is considered Stanford�s best offensive line prospect since Bob Whitfield (ninth overall pick, 1992) and was named in the pre-season by Street & Smith as the Pac-10�s best NFL prospect. Thanks to his musical exploits, Kwame is very good and dexterous with his hands. Is considered very nimble for his size and does well in both run and pass block schemes. Kwame�s pro stock rose in the 2001 Seattle Bowl when he absolutely punished Georgia Tech star rusher Greg Gathers, pushing him several yards down the field (if not into the ground first) on a number of occasions. On the downside, some feel that Harris is not fully developed yet and does not explode out of the blocks on every play. Runs a 5.2 in the 40, but was considered the quickest of the offensive linemen at the Indy combines. Possible destinations for Harris include Carolina (9th pick), Baltimore (11th pick), St. Louis (12th pick), Denver (20th), or Cleveland (21st).GERALD HAYES (6�0� 230) ILB PITTSBURGH � Listed on the University web-site as 6�3� 245, well sure � look at all the equipment he has on., although his page gives some nice testimonials (such as he hits �like a two-by-four� and �he�s a sideline to sideline force�). Most who�ve measured him lately has him at 6/230, and some stress under six feet. According to TSN�s Draft Preview, 5�11� and 230 are the minimums for an NFL inside backer. 40-time is also not the greatest with a 4.80 timing, TSN lists 4.90 as a minimum. However Hayes is huge on heart (which can�t be measured) and is a run-stuffing tackling machine who works his tail off, accumulating 100+ tackles in each of the past three seasons. Hayes has even thrown in pass-rushing in his repertoire, recording 6 � sacks this past season. Hayes does not grade nearly as high defending the pass, many feel he�s a half-step late arriving in coverage. There are also mixed reviews on his senior season, some thought he was strong throughout and at the Senior Bowl, while others thought he regressed along the way. The consensus feels he should be a three-down player in the pros, at the very worst he would be a strong special teams contributor. Probably not a first-rounder, but a solid mid-second round selection.MICHAEL HAYNES (6�3� 268) DE PENN ST � Weighed in at 274 during Senior Bowl, one report has his weight as high as 282. As much as Haynes impressed during Senior Bowl week, Haynes disappointed at the Indy combines posting a disappointing 4.88 time and was also hampered by a sore quad muscle, but rebounded with a 4.6 clocking in an on-campus workout. Was named Defensive Player of the Game at the Senior Bowl, recording three tackles, two TFL�s, a sack, a forced fumble, and a pass broken up. Haynes had his way v. all comers that day, including Georgia OT Jon Stinchcomb. This comes off the heels of a spectacular Senior season featuring 14.5 sacks (led Big Ten) and 22 TFL�s (also led conference) along with seven forced fumbles (school record) in what�s considered one of the best defensive seasons of a Nittney Lion player ever. Haynes was a late-bloomer in part since he was not highly regarded coming out of high school, though even then he had the necessary tools. The son of military parents, Haynes spent his childhood at bases across the country and overseas. He then spent his first three high school years at a school in Panama. There, he played on a rag-tag team with other children of military parents. Haynes then transferred to a school in New Jersey for his senior season, where he finally got some recruiting interest. Haynes started his Penn State career as a fullback, before moving to the D-line during his sophomore season. While Haynes may not be a top-level athlete, he has displayed an ability to get into the opponent�s backfield and cause havoc, and also plays well off the edge. He's got tremendous quickness off the ball and shows a good first step, and uses his hands well is able to speed rush and power rush. Is also a very smart individual on and off the field. Was credited at the combines for recording 23 225-lb reps. Thanks to redeeming himself on Pro Day, look for Haynes to be among the glut of D-linemen who will be selected in the first round.E.J HENDERSON (6'2" 250) LB MARYLAND - Stats from Junior season in �01 actually more impressive, where he broke Randy White�s long-standing team record for TFL�s with 28, that total ranked second in the nation as he was named the ACC�s Defensive Player of the Year. Was singled out be many during this season as one of the best inside backers in college bowl, and some were comparing his skills in College Park to that of Ray Lewis up the road. Mo Lewis is another current NFL player Henderson is often compared to, always doing his job making plays using his superb field vision � especially filling the gaps against the run. Once initial contact is made on the ballcarrier, the play is usually over. Henderson also does well kepping up with the tight ends on pass coverage. E.J. has also been admired in many circles for not being a trash-talker, letting his work on the field speak for itself. Was slow coming out of the box due to off-season back surgery last Spring, but still wound up with 19 TFL�s, 8.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles. Other concerns besides his back are a not-so impressive 4.82 clocking in the 40. Also performed 20-225 lb reps and a 30-inch vertical leap at the combines, neither of which are eye-popping neither. That will prevent E.J from being a top-10 overall pick � but either he or Georgia�s Boss Bailey will be the first inside backer selected. Likely suitors in the mid to late first round include the Jets, Patriots, or Saints.DREW HENSON (6�4� 220) QB MICHIGAN (1999-2000) � Recently reiterated from Yankee training camp that he has absolutely no intention on aborting his baseball career to return to football. Of course Drew�s employment there is stable and guaranteed, as he still has four years to go on what was then an unprecedented 6 year, 17 million dollar contract. Henson gets mentioned in this year�s draft list because he is eligible (since it�s been five years since enrolling at Michigan) and does not need to apply. Switch to baseball seemed puzzling at the time after investing three years in the Michigan program. Passed for 2,137 yards (61.6%) in 2000, along with an impressive 18 TD�s v. only four interceptions despite missing four games. Many thought Drew would had been a top-five overall pick if he had declared after that season, and potentially a #1 overall after 2001 or �02. Prospect status in baseball has dwindled substantially in the last year after hitting only .240 with 18 home runs at AAA Columbus. More alarming however was 151 strikeouts in 471 at-bats along with an elongated swing which scouts say will be near impossible to correct. Drew�s biggest hit last year was probably smacking the nose of an opposing pitcher during a bench-clearing beanbrawl. Henson also struggled in the post-season Arizona Fall League. At this point owner George Steinbrenner would not be too disappointed if Henson did do a 180 back to football. Chances are the majority of NFL teams will not consider taking a flyer on Drew until late in the draft if even then. And if any team decides to take that chance, it will take first round money (probably even high first-round money) to successfully woo him. However, there is one NFL team who almost always reaches on a player in this type of a unique situation (and usually way too early). I will give two hints, they are in the market for replacing a veteran QB a couple years down the road, and the owner is just as egotistical as Steinbrenner. Another team rumored to take a chance may be Cincinnati, although few see them actually anteing up to acquire his services. Watch to see if Drew continues to struggle in his baseball gig in the exhibition and early season games. If he does, expect King George to kindly �advise� (as only George can) him that he may be better off returning to the gridiron.VICTOR HOBSON (6�0� 250) OLB MICHIGAN � Height and athleticism (4.7/33� vertical) are average, but is very strong and has lifted the bar 30 times. Allegedly ran 4.5 as a prep, attended same high school as Raider QB Rich Gannon. Fifth-year senior recorded , 99 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 2 interceptions, 4 passes broken up, 2 fumble recoveries and a forced fumble this past season. Following in the mold of Ian Gold and Larry Foote before him, Hobson was honorable mention in conference in 2000, All Big-Ten second team in 2001, and elevated to all-conference first time in �02. Read and reacts well and has powerful hands. In addition to his superb tackling skills, also drops back to disrupt the passing game. Scrapes well and gets rid of FB�s and O-linemen on his way to the ball-carrier as well as anyone in the draft. Blitzing skills have improved as well. Versatile enough to play either the SAM or MIKE positions. Knock is that he�s too small to play the middle and not fast enough to play outside. Scouts have been more impressed seeing Hobson in person than watching him on film, look for him to be a solid third round pick.MONTRAE HOLLAND (6�3� 335) G FLORIDA STATE � Devastating, powerful run-blocker who would be a first round pick if not for lack of height alone with the fact of going the Mark Schlereth route with two arthritic knees that would probably only get worse. Squatty and thick, and has to play inside due to lack of height. Great upper body strength, he benches 555 and puts the bar up 30 times. Good athleticism and does well in pass-block schemes as well. Once locked on, he usually wins his battles. Quality one-gap DT�s are most likely to give him trouble. Even though he is considered the best run-blocker for the position some feel he should be even better. Great awareness, and can recognize the stunts as well as anyone. Held his own v. Miami�s vaunted front four and graded 85.1 percent for blocking consistency for a team averaging nearly 400 yards per game. Look for a middle-to-late second round call.TERRANCE HOLT (6�2� 200) S NORTH CAROLINA ST � At the very least, whatever NFL team who drafts Holt will be getting a tremendous asset on special teams, as Holt has blocked a remarkable 12 kicks in his Wolfpack career. Holt was also a three year starter, moving to strong safety in �02 after playing free safety the previous two seasons. Look for Terrance to return to the FS position at the next level. Positives include a body with very little fat, and someone who plays very smooth and peddles well. Has also recorded over 100 tackles in each of the past two seasons and has four INT�s, 12 broken up passes, four forced fumbles and three recoveries during that span. Knock on Holt is that he lacks top-end speed (4.65 in the 40) and could struggle playing centerfield in the pros. If initially beaten, he is going to have trouble catching up. Like his older brother on the Rams, Terrance likes to mix it up in the trash-talking department, but is also regarded as having a great attitude. Most projections are consistent, and have Holt going late second or early third round as one of the top half-dozen safeties on the board.WAYNE HUNTER (6�6� 310) OT HAWAII � While teammate Vince Manuwai has slipped from first round status, the underclassman has risen into that area in recent weeks. Hunter�s fast rise up the mock draft boards can be attributed to some impressive workouts that has seen him do over 35 repetitions on a consistent basis. But that is not all, as Hunter showed the athleticism of a receiver/defensive back by putting his leg behind his head �like a ballerina�. That will get a scouts attention every time. Other workout #�s include a 31" vertical, 8'8" broad jump, 4.54 short shuttle and a 7.72 3-cone. Has only one year of experience on offense, as he was on the defensive side of the ball before that as a transfer from California. Still understandably raw, and needs to work on run blocking and leg drive. Pass blocking experience is an asset, which he got a lot of in just one year in Coach June Jones� high-octane attack. Only allowed three sacks the entire year, two v. Alabama�s great front four. Has a huge wing-span that helps to keep defenders away. Playing on the left side is also a huge plus, as that is the position most in demand on the O-line. According to scouts, was also very enjoyable to interview from a personality standpoint. Should be in the first-rounder on upside/potential alone.TAYLOR JACOBS (6�0� 200) WR FLORIDA � This has a good chance to be one of the easier picks in draft pool contests, as the majority has Washington (huge surprise) selecting Taylor with the 13th overall selection. That could be a classic example of a Spurrier �reach�, as he could very well be available to the Skins with the 13th pick of the second round. Should Spurrier resist the temptation, Atlanta with pick #23 may very well be Jacobs only other first round option. This is not necessarily a knock on Jacob�s ability, who is considered perhaps the best of all Florida receivers in the Spurrier era. Although UF wideouts have generally underwhelmed at the pro level, it is still a list that includes Darrell Jackson and Travis Taylor. Runs a consistent �blur-like� (Buchsbaum quote) 4.40 in the 40 ("37 vertical leap) and is a legitimate track man. Gets open, has the awareness to find the seam and has decent hands. Is also considered one of the better route runners in this draft and is very capable of turning short receptions into long gainers. Knock against is that he is below-average physically and can be knocked around. Breakout game as a Gator was the 2002 Orange Bowl v. Florida, where Jacobs caught ten passes for 170 yards and two scores, garnering MVP honors. And that was with fellow receivers Jabar Gaffney and Reche Caldwell still on the roster. With Gaffney and Caldwell departed for the �02 season, Jacobs proceeded to catch 71 balls for 1088 yards and eight scores despite missing two games with a sore knee. His final �02 total of 6.45 catches per game rank second among any receiver in UF history. Was also one of the more impressive players to take part in the Indianapolis combine.BRADIE JAMES (6'2" 245) LB LSU - 40 time estimated at 4.62. Generally considered the fifth or sixth best backer in the draft, but is beginning to slip in some circles. Most still have him as a second rounder, but Mel Kiper was unimpressed with him at the Senior Bowl and has dropped him to the third or fourth round. James got a better game review on Great Blue North, noting he has a quick, aggressive first 2-3 steps, and recorded a couple of TFL's. However James was beat at least once on a passing play, and his lateral persuit was a question. James played most of his LSU career at outside backer, but coaching staff tinkered with him in the inside this past season. James is graded well in both speed and tackling, and was also All-Academic SEC. Recorded 18+ tackles in a game three times in �02, and had 18 QB pressures on the season. One of the main knocks on James is he's not at that top level, so don't look on him to make the spectacular plays. James was considered the #2 prep linebacker coming out of Louisiana in 1999, and was ranked as high as #17 overall by one publication.AL JOHNSON (6�4� 300) C WISCONSIN � Really improved his stock since early in the season, and the consensus had Al a close second to Notre Dame�s Jeff Faine among centers in this year�s draft. Did run a 4.95 on Pro Day but only managed a disappointing 18 225 lb reps, which could slip him out of the second round in a position that generally gets ignored early on. Like Penn State with linebackers and BYU with tight ends, Wisconsin has really developed an assembly line at this position, as Johnson follows the likes of Casey Rabach (Ravens) and Corey Raymer, and going further back Dan Turk and Mike Webster. Johnson is considered a very fundamentally sound/steady blocker, and considered extremely athletic as well as strong for his position and runs a 5.08. Johnson has also improved his pass blocking and is adept at snapping out of the shotgun. Have gotten some conflicting reports regarding his run-blocking, but the reviews seemed to get much favorable as the season wore on. Al did get some negative publicity with a pair of off-the-field DUI cases (including one pending from this past season), but should not affect his draft status.ANDRE JOHNSON (6�2� 220) WR MIAMI � Making a serious run at surplanting Charles Rogers as the #1 receiver, running a 4.31 during his on-campus workouts, along with an insane 40-inch vertical leap. Impressed at the combines just by showing up for his measurements, in which he weighed in at 230 pounds without hardly an ounce of fact. Johnson also comes fully-yoked, muscular and defined very much in the mold of current NFL star David Boston. Appearance was so impressive that some draft boards now have Johnson going to Houston with the #3 overall pick, immediately after Michigan State�s Charles Rogers. Considering that the Texans addressed some of their offensive line needs through free agency, that is a strong possibility. AJ has it all, including size, speed, and strength. Is also physical and not afraid to make a catch going over the middle. Caught 37 catches for 682 yards along with 10 scores in the regular season in 2001 � then garnered co-MVP honors with a 7 catch, 199 yd/2 TD outing in the Canes National Championship win over Nebraska. That was followed by 52 catches for 1,092 yds (21.0 avg) and nine scores this past season. Johnson is considered to have great hands, but most feel that his route running could use some work. Other minor (and I stress minor) concerns include a bad shoulder that necessitated surgery during the �02 season (missing one game) in addition to a pre-season academic fraud controversy that Johnson was embroiled in. Was #3 receiver overall coming out of high school according to The Sporting News.BEN JOHNSON (6�7� 330) OT WISCONSIN � Whereas smaller cousin Al Johnson (C/G) is the better athlete/technician but somewhat lacking in the size and power department, Ben is a run-mauling behemoth who is held back by limited athleticism. Benched 30 times at the combine, but only runs a 5.35 with a 28 inch vertical leap and an 8-foot long jump. Run-tackling skills ranks right up there with recent Badgers Aaron Gibson, Chris McIntosh, and Mark Tauscher. Once engaged with his opponent, Ben usually buries them with tremendous leg drive and a superior upper-body. Can play with a bit of a mean streak. Has played mainly left tackle but would probably be forced to move to RT at the next level since he struggles with pass-rushing DE�s who can get at a quarterbacks blind side. Blitzes also tend to give Ben problems. Has been utilized as a backup long-snapper, but said not to be good enough to be utilized at that capacity in the pros. Despite the pass-block deficiencies look for Ben to be selected to be a third, or even late second round selection since good run-blockers are always in demand.BRYANT JOHNSON (6�2� 200) WR PENN ST � Projected by many as a reliable �posession� receiver, Bryant really upped his stock by posting 40�s of 4.41 and 4.37 during on-campus workouts. Johnson had been thought of in the 4.5�s previously. According to one personnel scout,�He made himself some money with that workout�. Also reportedly has added about 10 lbs of bulk (up to 210) since the end of the season. Johnson may now find himself as a late first-round pick as anywhere between the third and fifth receiver selected, with Taylor Jacobs and Kelley Washington also in the mix. Will be one of the more polished WR�s available as he has the size/speed/route running combination and has seen time since his freshman season. Has good hands and extends his arms out well and is an outstanding blocker. Caught 51 passes for for 866 yards his junior season and followed that up with 48 catches for 917 yards this past season. Bryant�s game has been compared to Amani Toomer and Keyshawn Johnson, although some question whether Bryant is the deep threat that Amani has developed into. Also was PSU�s primary punt returner in 2002, averaging 12.9 yards on 40 returns.JERAMI JOHNSON (6�1 280�) FB WESTERN KENTUCKY � Was reported to be down to 260 at the combines, which increases the chances of him being picked first day. Played for Indiana for his first three years before being embroiled in a dispute with coach Gary DiNardo (reportedly about weight conditioning) which led to his transfer to WKU. Has surprising speed (4.75) and is a good inside runner. Rushed 88 times for 601 yards last year, and 95 times for 546 yards and 7 scores with IU in �01. Is capable of catching the football as well as being a devastating blocker to the point of almost being an extra offensive lineman, and is capable of demolishing linebackers. Before his falling out with coach DiNardo, Jerami was projected as the best of this year�s fullback prospects. Despite his fine senior season for WKU questions remain on his focus and dedication. Many feel that Johnson is still underachieves, could perform his assignments better, and that he uses too much finesse rather than using his strength. Sports Weekly recently listed Johnson as a third-round pick, but should more likely be fourth or fifth round, where he will be a boom or bust proposition.LARRY JOHNSON (6�1� 225) RB PENN ST � Not considered to have the upside potential of some other backs (Suggs, Fargas, O. Smith among others), but is currently the most complete package, and the best bet to be the first back selected and possibly the only back to go in the first round. Looked 'outstanding' in his on-campus workout, posting better than expected times of 4.40 and 4.45, while throwing in an impressive 41" vertical leap. Some are skitterish about Johnson if only because of the colossal flops that have come out of Penn St in this position (Blair Thomas, K-J Carter, Curtis Enis among others) in the past. Is constantly compared to Eddie George, another Big-Ten star who�s done well at the next level � but is also somewhat plodding. Comparisons to George also usually means running upright ( somewhat of a negative) and doing well in the receiving game (a positive), both attributes also apply to LJ. In fact, Johnson is considered the best receiving RB in the draft, so he can be used on all three downs. Was buried on the depth chart for much of his first three years, but suddenly emerged into a Heisman candidate in �02, rushing for a D-1 best 2,015 yards � capped off by a 327 YD/4 TD performance v. Indiana followed by rushing for nearly 300 yards in a half in the season finale v. Michigan St. It must be noted however that those were a pair of teams that were simply dead in the water. Also contributed with 40 receptions along the way. Looked good in Senior Bowl workouts despite fighting off a virus along with dehydration. However, some were turned off by what was perceived as an �arrogant� attitude. However, Larry is the son of PSU�s defensive line coach and will respond well to instruction, and will be a willing contributor on special teams. New England at #19 overall looks like one good possibility for LJ. Should the Pats pass, then look for a team to trade up soon after to grab him.TEYO JOHNSON (6�7� 240) TE STANFORD - Draft eligible after completing his red-shirt sophomore season, whose draft standing is soaring. Has also played two years worth of basketball with the Cardinal, which immediately draws comparisons to another NFL tight end who also moonlighted as a basketball power forward at a Bay-Area Pac-10 school. But besides Tony Gonzalez, some scouts choose to compare Teyo to the Saint�s Boo Williams, as in too slow (estimated 4.7 time) to play receiver, but not big or physical enough to be a star NFL tight end. However, the asset that does separate Teyo from most of this year�s tight end crop is an impressive 36-inch vertical leap. 6�7� coupled with that leap is bound to create countless matchup problems at the next level. Was a highly coveted athlete out of high school, playing quarterback, receiver, and defensive end as well as starring in basketball. Utilized mainly as a wide receiver, caught 41 passes for 467 yards and eight scores this past season after 38 catches for 565 yards and seven scores in 2001. Was hampered this past year with a knee problem as well as an otherwise ineffective Stanford team. Many feel that Teyo would had been best served to spend at least another season in college, if for no other reason than to gain valuable experience in the blocking aspects of the tight end position. However, Teyo was sold upon projections given by draft experts, as well as workouts with NFL receivers Jerry Rice and J.J Stokes, whom told him that he could �look forward to a 15-year career�. As of mid-February, Johnson has surpassed Iowa�s Dallas Clark among others, as the #2 tight end prospect on the board. Many draft boards now even have Teyo going in the tail end of the first round, with possible suitors including Denver, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh.BENNIE JOPPRU (6�5" 250) TE MICHIGAN � Has been measuring in the 270 range as of late, and has risen from being a projected fourth-rounder, to being a #54 pick overall in The Sporting News recent Draft Preview and was ranked 46th in USA TODAY�s Draft Week Top 100. Ambidextrous (writes with his left hand, throws with his right), for whatever that�s worth. Did not see much playing time prior to his Senior season in Ann Arbor, but then busted out to the tune of 53 catches for 579 yards and five scores. Was also a team captain. Was still not highly regarded, but then raised eyebrows at the Senior Bowl by basically catching everything in sight, along with solid route-running, and showing that he could do some blocking as well. Speed (4.85 � 4.90) is not an asset and was only considered marginal in the strength department as well. Some feel that there is not much more upside, but Joppru could still make a contribution as an H-back or even with FG/XP-snapping in an emergency.WILLIAM JOSEPH (6�5� 295) DT MIAMI � The latest of a continuing line of Hurricane D-lineman to be top NFL prospects. Joseph often watches tape of former Miami DT Warren Sapp. A handful still feel Joseph could challenge Penn State�s Jimmy Kennedy as the #1 defensive tackle overall, but most have him listed at #2 going as high as the #7 pick overall (Minnesota) or slipping as far as #23 (Atlanta). Size/athleticism is considered a strength, with a 40-time that goes in the 4.8 range plus displaying quickness as though he�s in the 260 lb range. Fifth-year senior had 35 TFL�s and 15 sacks in his final two seasons as a Hurricane. Elected to stay in school so his parents, both Haitian immigrants, could see him graduate from school. Unlike most DT prospects in the first round, Joseph has the ability to play in both one and two-gap schemes. Has great burst off the snap and is effective in collapsing the pocket. Draft stock has actually gone down since beginning of last season, as most felt that he did perform at as consistent a level as he did as a Junior in 2001. In several games, he surprisingly was pushed around in some games. A four-year starter, Joseph started his Hurricane career as a defensive end. |
