The big event of the month begins tomorrow. The 2012 NFL Combine will kick off and will run through the 28th. There are three very important parts of the combine - the weigh in, the drills and the interview process. The combine provides us with true height and weight measurements. Schools tend to alter the height and weight numbers in their favor so the combine is great for getting a prospects true size. The weigh in process at the beginning of the combine can be the most boring part of the event, but it is still an important part of the process that every NFL team will pay attention close attention to.
For the past few months, we have debated the Cowboys draft needs. Cornerback, safety, pass rusher, defensive line and offensive line look like our most pressing needs. With all of those needs on our minds, we should then shift our focus to certain areas during the combine.
Below is my latest Top 50 Big Board and break-downs by position group. After that, we'll take a look at how some of the drills relate to specific positions.
Make the jump...
This is the third update of the big board, which includes my fifty best draft prospects. I included changes due to some of the prospect's performances at the Senior Bowl and my ongoing draft research. Take a look over my updated rankings and comment on them below. I love getting feedback from the BTB community and I value everyone's opinion. I expect to alter my board after the 2012 NFL Combine. The combine will give me a better feel for a prospects athleticism. I prefer to grade prospects on game tape, but the combine is another important tool in the grading process.
| Rank |
Previous |
Player | Position | College | Change |
| 1 | 1 | *Andrew Luck | QB | Stanford |  |
| 2 | 2 | *Robert Griffin III | QB | Baylor | |
| 3 | 3 | *Justin Blackmon | WR | Oklahoma State | |
| 4 | 4 | *Matt Kalil | OT | USC | |
| 5 | 5 | *Morris Claiborne | CB | LSU | |
| 6 | 7 | *David DeCastro | OG | Stanford |  |
| 7 | 6 | *Trent Richardson | RB | Alabama |  |
| 8 | 10 | Melvin Ingram | DE | South Carolina | |
| 9 | 25 | Quinton Coples | DE | North Carolina |
|
| 10 | 11 | *Michael Brockers | DT | LSU | |
| 11 | 12 | Courtney Upshaw | LB | Alabama | |
| 12 | 18 | *Riley Reiff | OT | Iowa |
|
| 13 | 13 | *Luke Kuechly | LB | Boston College | |
| 14 | 15 | Janoris Jenkins | CB | North Alabama | |
| 15 | 14 | *Nick Perry | DE | USC | |
| 16 | 8 | *Dre Kirkpatrick | CB | Alabama |
|
| 17 | 9 | *Peter Konz | C | Wisconsin |
|
| 18 | 23 | Michael Floyd | WR | Notre Dame |
|
| 19 | 16 | *Jonathan Martin | OT | Stanford | |
| 20 | 26 | Devon Still | DT | Penn State |
|
| 21 | 46 | Mike Adams | OT | Ohio State |
|
| 22 | 24 | *Dontari Poe | DT | Memphis | |
| 23 | 21 | *Don'ta Hightower | LB | Alabama | |
| 24 | NR | Alameda Ta'amu | DT | Washington |
|
| 25 | 17 | Kendall Wright | WR | Baylor |
|
| 26 | 34 | Brandon Thompson | DT | Clemson |
|
| 27 | NR | Cordy Glenn | OG | Georgia |
|
| 28 | 20 | *Alshon Jeffery | WR | South Carolina |
|
| 29 | 19 | Mark Barron | S | Alabama |
|
| 30 | NR | Vinny Curry | DE/OLB | Marshall |
|
| 31 | 22 | *Stephon Gilmore | CB | South Carolina |
|
| 32 | 31 | Chandler Jones | DE/OLB | Syracuse | |
| 33 | 29 | Kelechi Osemele | OG | Iowa State | |
| 34 | 36 | Mohammed Sanu | WR | Rutgers | |
| 35 | 45 | *Lamar Miller | RB | Miami |
|
| 36 | 44 | *Whitney Mercilus | DE | Illinois |
|
| 37 | 27 | Coby Fleener | TE | Stanford |
|
| 38 | 32 | Brandon Washington | OG | Miami |
|
| 39 | 35 | Orson Charles | TE | Georgia | |
| 40 | 37 | Jonathan Massaquoi | DE/OLB | Troy | |
| 41 | 33 | Zach Brown | LB | North Carolina |
|
| 42 | 38 | *Fletcher Cox | DT | Mississippi State | |
| 43 | 40 | Jared Crick | DE | Nebraska | |
| 44 | NR | *Dwayne Allen | TE | Clemson |
|
| 45 | 48 | Chase Minnifield | CB | Virginia | |
| 46 | 39 | David Wilson | RB | Virginia Tech |
|
| 47 | 43 | *Jerel Worthy | DT | Michigan State | |
| 48 | NR | Ryan Tannehill | QB | Texas A&M |
|
| 49 | 50 | *Vontaze Burfict | LB | Arizona State | |
| 50 | NR | Kendall Reyes | DL | Uconn |
|
| Out | |||||
| - - | 28 | Alfonzo Dennard | CB | Nebraska | |
| - - | 30 | Bruce Irvin | LB | West Virginia | |
| - - | 41 | *Ronnell Lewis | LB | Oklahoma | |
| - - | 42 | *Jayron Hosley | CB | Virginia Tech | |
| - - | 47 | Markelle Martin | S | Oklahoma State | |
| - - | 49 | Jamell Fleming | CB | Oklahoma | |
| (*) denotes underclassmen | |||||
Here's how the Top 50 board splits out by position groups
| QB | WR | TE | RB | OT | C/G |
| Andrew Luck | Justin Blackmon | Coby Fleener | Trent Richardson | Matt Kalil | David DeCastro |
| Robert Griffin III | Michael Floyd | Orson Charles | Lamar Miller | Riley Reiff | Peter Konz |
| Ryan Tannehill | Kendall Wright | Dwayne Allen | David Wilson | Jonathan Martin | Cordy Glenn |
| Alshon Jeffery | Mike Adams | Kelechi Osemele | |||
| Mohammed Sanu | Brandon Washington | ||||
| DT | DE | LB | CB | S | |
| Michael Brockers | Melvin Ingram | Courtney Upshaw | Morris Claiborne | Mark Barron | |
| Alameda Ta'amu | Quinton Coples | Luke Kuechly | Janoris Jenkins | ||
| Devon Still | Nick Perry | Don'ta Hightower | Dre Kirkpatrick | ||
| Dontari Poe | Whitney Mercilus | Zach Brown | Stephon Gilmore | ||
| Brandon Thompson | Jared Crick | Vontaze Burfict | Chase Minnifield | ||
| Fletcher Cox | Vinny Curry | ||||
| Jerel Worthy | Chandler Jones | ||||
| Kendall Reyes | Jonathan Massaquoi |
Some drills are relevant to a prospects position. The forty yard dash is a good measure for the secondary players. During the individual drills, pay attention to the cornerbacks and safeties, see how quickly they can cut and how fluid their hips are. The three cone drill is another important activity that relates to a defensive backs athleticism.
The forty yard dash is overrated for defensive lineman and pass rushers. The ten yard split is a good measure for a defensive lineman because it will show how quickly they can get up the field. The vertical jump is something to watch for when judging pass rushers. You can get a good feel for a pass rushers explosion off the line by the vertical jump. The three cone drill is important for pass rushers to display their athleticism and how fluid they are when making quick cutbacks.
When watching for offensive lineman at the combine, look for their bench press numbers. You want to see how strong they are. The individual drills will showcase how well an offensive lineman can move. Other than that, I use game tape to evaluate offensive lineman.
The interview process is very important during the combine process. Teams will get time to sit down with the prospects and get to know them better. Players with questionable character and off the field concerns will need to win teams over in their interviews. Answering a question the wrong way could cost a potential draft pick a lot of money. Teams also fall in love with prospects during the interview process and that may be the reason you see teams reach for a player on draft day.
The Cowboys front office will be highly interested in two prospects during the interview process. Cornerbacks Janoris Jenkins and Dre Kirkpatrick are both considered to be top fifteen picks. Both have blue chip talent, but they have major off the field concerns. These two young men will have to ace the interview process. The Cowboys will do their homework on both prospects and what happens in the interview process could determine if they draft one of them with the fourteenth overall pick.
The RKG mentality has been implemented into the Cowboys culture by head coach Jason Garrett. If Jason Garrett is not impressed with a prospect's answers during the interview process, then the Cowboys will not draft them. There has been a high emphasis placed on character, and I doubt that strategy will be ignored going forward. Hate it or love it, Jason Garrett wants the right type of players on his football team.
The best advice I can offer about the 2012 NFL Combine is to watch the position groupings related to the Cowboys needs. If you focus on our needs during the combine, you will come away with a better understanding of the prospects at their respected positions. Remember that the combine can me misleading and be sure to take it with a grain of salt.
17 recs | 265 comments
The Nick Perry arrow will be pointing up after the combine.
Archie if someone asked me who I would compare Brockers too it would be Calais Campbell. Not the Campbell we see now but a young Campbell.
The one to watch on your list with an arrow pointing down is Fletcher Cox. D linemen are at a premium.
football mensa - February 21, 2012
mensa
I only have Perry dropping one spot and that is only because I was impressed with some of the guys I saw at the Senior Bowl
I know Perry drops a spot, but it isn’t really a big deal, its just one spot
Fletcher Cox is a guy I am still learning about, I can’t wait to see him this week
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Perry will turn heads this week...
Every year there are a handful of players I get wrapped up in hoping for in the draft and Perry is my favorite if a linebacker is on the card at 14. I do like Andre Branch from Clemson as a strong side 3-4 OLB too, though he’ll probably be squarely between 14 and 45 somewhere. Maybe with a strong weekend Branch finds his way onto your board.
Linebacker22 - February 21, 2012
Vinny Curry too
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
He's pretty much a late 1st-early 2nd rounder at this point.
If we grab a guard in the 1st (arrrggghhh!), trading back up to get Curry at the end of the first would actually make me feel okay about the whole thing.
Creasy729 - February 21, 2012
I really like Branch as a 2nd round prospect. The guy can dip on the edge
and that is the difference between average and great for pass-rushing.
Creasy729 - February 21, 2012
yea
I think Branch would be a steal if we could get him in the second….dude has game
Stickyfeet24 - February 22, 2012
Nah they don't remind me of each other at all.
Coming out of college, Campbell was a specimen much more like Coples. Both were over 6’6" and around 280 lbs. Brockers has about 20 extra pounds on him compared to what Coples and Campbell had and has not shown the same athleticism as them in college.
Creasy729 - February 21, 2012
Calais Campbell was nothing like Coples.
Campbell was a second rounder who wasn’t nearly as highly touted as Coples. As a 3-4 de Brockers game will most resemble Campbell. Coples Will struggle mightily in a 3-4. Brockers already has the weight that Campbell weighs now.
I would only want Coples if we switch to a 4-3.
Campbell has 21 sacks in his career. How many combined sacks have the de’s on Dallas had the last two seasons ?
football mensa - February 22, 2012
I think Coples would be better at 34 OLB than 34 DE
He’s an interesting prospect because he has the frame and athleticism to play almost anywhere. I just don’t know if he has the head or work ethic to be good at any position.
Yoko Romo - February 22, 2012 via mobile
HERE IT IS! FIRST FRONT PAGE!
Mensa you’re killing me with the Brockers stuff. Your comments about him have me intrigued.
Nickthegrip - February 21, 2012
lol I know
first front page article, feels weird but sooo GOOD
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
I know exactly what you mean.
I’m so proud. “sniff”
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
like a proud father?
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
More like the weird uncle.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
lol
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
way to come out swingin' Chia
Shaymer - February 21, 2012 via mobile
thanks
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Well Nick I know what I have seen. Unlikely to dominate in his first year.
There is the issue. We need a player who can make a difference this year. he is loaded with talent though.
football mensa - February 21, 2012
Why?
The Cowboys FO has shown a propensity to wait a year on their prospects – Bruce Carter (returns not yet in), AoA (FAIL). I’m sure they don’t think that this year is the Cowboys year, and are sticking with the rebuilding process.
If he’s that good, and can blossom, I think Garrett et al might be more intrigued, no?
Nickthegrip - February 21, 2012
Would you take that gamble with the 14th pick?
This team needs players who can come in an make an immediate impact at Oline, Dline, Pass Rush, and DB (safety and corner). You don’t take gambles like this one when you’re picking in the top 14. Some team will, I don’t think it will be Dallas.
I look at Brockers more as a kuxury pick. If this team didn’t have the pressing needs I listed above, I’d be fine if they took a chance with their first rd pick and let him grow. However given the holes, and the fact our star players are in their 30s, I wouldn’t like it.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
I agree. I'm for the solid pick - I'm for DeCastro if available.
Mensa’s comments over the past days have me more intrigued about Brockers, but I remain unconvinced that going with him is the right thing to do.
If he is available at 14, I want DeCastro. Two years in a row of picking “can’t miss” prospects with your #1 is a great step in the right direction.
Nickthegrip - February 21, 2012
Agreed
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Plus Dez Bryant was a "can't miss" #1 based on talent
its just the maturity that has him making headlines. Say what you want about him, but the dude is a beast on the field. I re-watched the first half of the jets game and he just abused Revis and Cromartie… Abused!
mahuebel - February 22, 2012
actually Dez was a can't miss WR
He was the best WR in his class.
The only real ?s on him: why did he lie about talking with Eugene Parker? Late to practice once twice at OSU.
I love Dez, I haven’t bashed him once. He is a beast.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
DeMaryius Thomas is gonna have a say about that.
Thomas is now healthy and look what he did with Tebow at qb. Thomas is already more polished with the route tree. He is faster than Dez. Most of all so far he isn’t the knuckle head Dez is.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
Bryant has better hands than Thomas
I’ll stick my neck out for Bryant and say he has a better season and career than Thomas.
If Pittsburgh wasn’t remaining stubborn the entire playoff game going single high safety while their two best safeties weren’t playing in the second half, Thomas doesn’t go off like that. Pittsburgh allowed that to happen. If Pittsburgh plays a straight up defense, Thomas doesn’t go off.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Thomas has Tebow. Of course his stats will be worse.
Thomas is the better athlete. Not so sure about hands yet. I will have to let that play out. Dez has drops too.
It wasn’t just the Steelers game Thomas did well in. Right now Thomas is the smoother route runner. I think Dez has superduper star talent. Right now he isn’t very polished. It’s up to him this year to take care of that.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
Im confident Jimmy Robinson will be able to make Dez into a great WR
Antonio S - February 22, 2012
Dez only has 3 dropped passes in 2 years.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Dez is a good player . So is Thomas.
Dez hasn’t seperated himself . He does have a far superior qb throwing to him.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
Nick long term , yes I would take him.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
First ever front page rec!
Good work Chia.
I’d also add a couple things to watch for:
1) Vertical Jump: measures lower body explosion and power, as well as a player’s true lenght. This is a key drill for passing rushing defensive ends/outside line backers.
2) Short Shuttle: tests a player’s ability to move laterally, and quickness in small spaces. This is another good drill for the pass rushers. Also it helps determine if a 43 defensive end prospect can make the transiton to 34 OLB…just saw Willie McGinest explain that on NFL Network.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
yes
the short shuttle is a great drill to focus on too
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
sackSEER
Uses the Vertical Jump and Short Shuttle as part of it’s metric to weed out the busts.
You’ll love this: Woodley beat Spencer in those numbers:
A) Woodley had a 39 vertical to Spencer’s 32
B) Woodley ran a 4.42 shuttle to Spencer’s 4.43
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Ever since sackSEER said JPP would get 4.5 sacks total in the next 5 seasons
I’ve dismissed that stuff as garbage. Kidding! But its got some tweaking to do.
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Look I get what you're saying
But to their credit, they are trying to weed busts out from group each year.
Sometimes a metric will get it wrong. At the end of the day, you can’t measure a guy’s work ethic (which JPP has-to make the leap from star Juco player to a strong showing at USF, to 16.5 sacks in his sophmore NFL season).
SackSEER also considers numbers put up in college and how many games were played/missed. i guess their biggest concern was that he only played one year at USF, and didn’t know what do with his Juco numbers.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Haha I know, I was just kidding.
IIRC its been pretty successful. Just noting that it ain’t perfect.
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Lol I missed the "the kidding" part the first time I read your comment.
What I look at for pass rushers
1) A player’s Kirwan Score [(TFLS + Sacks)/Games played] -Production first and foremost. I love producers. If you didn’t produce in college, I don’t care how good your measurables are, I won’t consider you.
2) Durability: Give me the guys who could play with injuries. If you’re always missing time with injuries, that’s a redflag. If you had a one time injury that caused you to miss extended time in one season, then I’m more willing to give you a pass.
3) Vertical: Gives me an understanding of lengstrength/power, and wingspan. How quick can you explode off the line? Can you extend out arms and take a QB down from behind or knock the ball out while fighting off blocks?
4) Short Shuttle: how quick are you laterally? Do you change direction smoothly while running after a scrambling QB? If I have you drop in coverage can you move with a TE/RB?
5) Bench Press: Shows me strength and mental toughness (those last few reps are always the toughest to complete, can your mind tell your body to keep going?) Gives me an idea about your ability to win your battle against blockers?
6) Forty Time: How fast are you?
Finally, one I never get see, but I’m sure coaches look at: the tackle dummy drills where they look to see how fast you move your arms and how violent your punch is.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
I look for:
1) Durability. Agreed with you on that.
2) As far as athletic ability, I look at arm length/height/weight. I want to see someone with long arms, a good base, and decent (but too much) height to maximize leverage
3) I look at the broad jump and vertical, along with game tape to look at the first step. Can you time and get that first step in before the opposing lineman? That’s the biggest factor for me. Acceleration is much more important to me than long speed.
4) Production doesn’t mean too much to me. I’d like at least one productive year vs quality competition, but measurables mean a lot more.
5) Character. Can’t be a dirtbag.
6) Bench/40/ShortShuttle: I don’t think they are as important to me as everything else, though good scores are always a plus. I couldn’t care less if he’s good in coverage (4-3 vs 3-4 scout of course!) cause for me, looking at DEs….they only should be going in one direction…to the QB.
So we look for similar things I suppose. Giants like big dudes. Osi is our smallest passrusher, but Kiwi, Tuck and JPP are all around the 6’3-6’4 270lbs range.
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Production to me
I like GPA and Test Scores:
1) Did you show up, and perform when it mattered?
2) Did you show improvement from your first year to your final year?
3) If your numbers went down in the last year, then I ask why?
-Was it injuries?
-Was it a position switch?
-Was it off the field?
Just cause a guy has measurables doesn’t mean he will produce. The guys who produce and make plays will stand out on tape.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Should say "is like"
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Oh I agree with acceleration
I just don’t know which of those drills accurately measures it, hence I didn’t make it a category.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
it's nice to have you here BBI!
I enjoy your insight & how you conduct yourself while here. Keep it up and we might convert you away from the dark-side (lol). I wonder if you’d cut a fanpost on a cowboys related issue from an outside prospective?
mho - February 21, 2012 via iPhone app
BBI's cool dude
very astute commenter.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
appreciate it, Roh
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
glad to be here, mate, thanks for the kind words. I was actuallly thinking about writing a fanpost here
on that same sort of idea. Probably write one sometime soon!
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Hey, shoot for the best.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
Only way to do it.
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Yeah BBI's alright by me
Fun guy to argue with.
Omar Little - February 21, 2012
sackseer was based on a fully baked regression analysis.
i’m gonna say’s probably quite a bit stronger basis for looking at vert and SS than whatever the basis for your focus on long arms
Fan in Thick and Thin - February 21, 2012
Doesn't the Vertical
Also take into account your arm length?
I would think the vertical score takes into account both leg power and arm length.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
definitely not.
they measure your standing reach and then the highest point you can touch. The difference is your vertical.
Specifically takes arm length out of the equation.
Fan in Thick and Thin - February 22, 2012
ok
thanks for clarifying
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
SackSEER
is a load of crap.
FiTaT has done a lot of good stuff on this site, but his championing of that “stat” has been a big negative.
I might have some time later to show how crappy this stat really is, but it’s about as bad at measuring future sack totals as RF is in measuring baseball defense.
Requiem - February 21, 2012
I think JPP is the exact type of player that sackSEER is going to miss
One season of D-1 competition under his belt, viewed as a pure potential pick. He’s the type of guy that the scouting department is supposed to find.
Side Rant: This is what pisses me off about stupid people who read Moneyball or just watch the movie, they’re not smart enough to get the point of the book. The point of the book is to find undervalued assets and gaining new competitive advantages over the competition, not at all dismissing everything else in favor of stats. The actual book Moneyball Beane and the scouts worked pretty well together, he just needed to modernize scouting. It wasn’t at all like the movie portrayed. Stupid people read the book and think “OPS REPLACES SCOUTING WHAAA!!?!?!??!?”
To bring it back to football it’s the same thing with sackSEER, sackSEER is just a tool to evaluate passrushers coming out of college using metrics that have high correlation with success in the NFL. It’s not designed to replace the scouting department.
Omar Little - February 22, 2012
personally for me
here is what I do:
First step Mock out a draft using the ODS.
Second step: Since I tend to focus on the measurables first, I then will take the pick that was given for the Cowboys and then look him up over at NFLDraftScout.com and take a look at his. If those Fall in what I think is the correct range for the players height/weight, I pay close attention to certain ones for certain positions, then I will go look up the scouting tapes.
Step three is watching those scouting tapes. What I am looking for is validation of the measurables. IF the player has a good vertical, I am looking for a consistent burst off the snap. IF they have a Low SS time, does that translate on the field. so on and so forth.
NOw if they didn’t make the combine(injury, not invited, etc) then I am looking for comparability to a current player. I want to see if the “play like an NFL player”. Case in point. I watched several scouting tapes on Luke Kuchley. To me he Looks like Sean Lee, with a bit more speed. Not saying that he will be that type of player but he certainly reminded me of him.
that is my way of Scouting. I developed this method as a “time Saver” because with two kids in the mix, I don’t have the time to research every prospect, so I tend to focus on those that have demonstrated the measureables first. While not Perfect, I would never have looked at JJP for example, It does tend to narrow the list from what close to 300, to around 50….
I am Ironman!!! - February 22, 2012
I do something similar
For each position, I narrow it down by height weight, then, I look at production, if I don’t like the production, I stop and move on to the next player.
Then, with the guys whose production I like, I look at their combine drills.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
basically we do the same thing
just in different order…..
I am Ironman!!! - February 23, 2012
Ro can you hit Rec again for me (the app doesn't have one!
Great points and awesome info TAFKA Chia (Archie)! Can we still call you Chia, it’s easier to type on the iPhone!? Good insight to you as well Roh!!! I love draft time.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!!! With Quarterbacks throwing D-lineman shifting, Cornerback running, and Linebackers jumping just gets me in gear. Cause it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
mho - February 21, 2012 via iPhone app
*shifting=lifting
mho - February 21, 2012 via iPhone app
Chia is fine with me
all my friends and my mom calls me Chia
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
thanks
mho - February 21, 2012 via iPhone app
I always thought it was a Chia pet reference.
Omar Little - February 22, 2012
Superbowl is like xmas to me
And the draft is like New Year’s Eve.
Shaymer - February 21, 2012 via mobile
I think the opposite
The draft is like Christmas…getting new “gifts”
A Super Bowl would be more New Year’s Eve-like…time to party!
Either way, they’re both great!!
sportsfanatic21 - February 22, 2012
I think Jenkins and Kirkpatrick are even
I give the edge to Kirkpatrick because of his size. Hr would probably hold up better in the NFC east.
Man one Safety in the top 50 is scary
djthumpl - February 21, 2012
I give the edge to Jenkins because of his speed and cover skills
but as you can see I don’t have Kirkpatrick too far behind him, I had Kirkpatrick at #8 before his untimely decision
it is scary isn’t it, not many safeties out there
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Same as last year
So that scary. Next year should be the year for safeties, right.
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
I wouldn't mind Markell Martin in the 3rd, if he does drop...
wtshaolin - February 21, 2012
I thought you like Kirkpatrick more because of his height and length
I like em both, but the taller guy (barring 40time) would be the preferred option no?
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
40 drill isn't nearly as important as the 3 cone.
Tall guys can have fast 40 times but we need to know if he’s quick. He has to be able to move his hips.
Dynamicduo - February 21, 2012 via mobile
I like both the forty and 3cone
Intersting how we passed on Flowers who ran a better 3cone (at pro-day) than Jenkins did at the combine. Jenkins was a 7.21 while Flowers was a 6.78.
Forty Times: Jenkins 4.38; Flowers 4.5
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Flowers is much better too
Dynamicduo - February 21, 2012 via mobile
Hopefully we chose the correct CB this time
I like both guys, but the faster/quicker one would be the better option.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
When talking DB's
I look at the SS times before the 3-cone. IMO the 3-cone is more important to Pass rushers than to DB"s, because the SS shows how good you are in “sharp COD” whereas the 3-cone is more “turning the Corner”
I am Ironman!!! - February 22, 2012
Makes sense
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Sad
Not one single fellow Longhorn on your board. Shows how much our talent had fallen off the last couple of years. I expect that to change in the next two years.
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
sorry Longhorn fans :(
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Same with the Ducks
They just run a very college style offense.
Cowboys_Attack - February 22, 2012
Yet Texas gets a top 10 class every recruiting year.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
I’ve watched 5 star recuits commit to Texas A&M get knocked down to 4 when they do so. And I’ve seen 4 star recruits who commit to Texas get bumped up the 5 stars when they do so. Perception and not measurements eh
AustonianAggie - February 22, 2012
Mo Claiborne was a 3 star. That star crap is just that.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
A sleeper prospect to watch out for at the Combine
WR, Stephen Hill from GT: 6’4 204 he had 28 catches over 800 yards and 3 TDS in Geogia Tech’s option based offense. If he runs a good 40 time and tests well at the combine, he could rise from his current second rd grade to a potential late first rd guy. He can go up for the ball, make the spectacular catch, and is a willing blocker. There might be a question concerning his hands as he had a few drops, but I give him a little bit of a pass here, as he rarely sees the ball his way. Interesting to see where he goes.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
yes
I want to see how he works out too
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Congrats, Chia.
That’s funny how compared to some of your epic stuff, this is straight to the point. Thanks to yourself and everyone who tosses knowledge nuggets about players out there to those of us who don’t focus on the college game.
BlueNSilverBlood - February 21, 2012
thanks for reading
well, expect this style more going forward
it’s just a better way of presenting the material
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
First front page. Nice.
Question: Why the Ronnell Lewis “hate”?
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
I had him on my last two boards
I replaced him with Kendall Reyes, trust me I am a huge Hammer (Lewis) fan, just had trouble fitting him in this time around
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
love me some Kendall Reyes
any way he lingers into the second round?
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
99% sure he will be there in the 2nd round
Trueblue122 - February 21, 2012
take him
and don’t look back
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
Dance like no one's watching.
Nickthegrip - February 21, 2012
We'll have insider info on him
Paul Pasqualoni coached him at UCONN in 2011. Paulie P wad our DC when Garrett took over at head coach.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
2nd or 3rd round
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Curious about the thought process of slotting a franchise running back behind
a guard? The last time a guard was drafted in the top 12 picks was Leanord Davis (Hook ’Em) in 2001.
jerry_jones_killed_our_cowboys - February 21, 2012
DeCastro is Steve Hutchinson good
He’s a special talent. That’s not saying Richardson isn’t special, it’s just recognizing how truly gifted DeCastro is.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
The av is a nice touch.
And yes, David DeCastro is my savior.
Omar Little - February 22, 2012
Thanks man
agreed about DeCastro
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Good read Chia.... rec
did you catch Rafs article about moving Scandrick to safety? if so what are your thoughts on it? to me he would be a good safety if he had better ball hawking skills. i can deff see this as the “2012 experiment”
yehti - February 21, 2012
oh yes
I read Cowboys Nation daily
I have been considering moving Scandrick to safety for years
I just like his skill set there
remember when we moved to a more zone scheme in 2010? Scandrick played a lot better with the play coming at him
I always thought he would make a nice FS
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Agreed I always wondered why we went with Ball there in that experiment
I figured that Scan would do pretty good there and he’s a decent hitter too. Has skills rushing the passer, and as you mentioned Archie plays much better with the play in front of him.
Cowboys_Attack - February 22, 2012
Ball is built like a fs. His game however doesn't translate at all.
Scandrick has better fs skills imo but he would get beat over the top vs good te’s. He is so short. That is why i am in favor of signing Carr and drafting Dre to play fs.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
I agree he is on the shorter side I just really like how his skills translate to FS
Would absolutly love having Carr here that would be freaking awesome! As far as the draft I want Dre or Janoris either or depending on the Combine. Not a fan of the off the field issues however Birddog really eased my initial fears about him so I think I could handle either now.
Cowboys_Attack - February 22, 2012
yes
Ball is built like a FS
good size and he is cut like a rock
Ball is really in great athletic shape
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
honestly
I cannot blame the Cowboys for putting Ball there, I really believed Ball was going to be a good FS
he has the size and speed to fit in there
it just never worked out, that is why I never bashed them for taking a chance on Ball there, I did air my concerns on WHY there wasn’t a backup plan, that was just not intelligent
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
That's the way to put it I wasn't mad about trying either
but when it was a clear fail we were still stuck like chuck
Cowboys_Attack - February 23, 2012
Excited for the combine
And to see how the boards change post-combine as well.
Bermystar - February 21, 2012
oh they are going to change, I know mine will!
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Congrats Chia
I’ve enjoyed your material on here for a while. I’m glad you’re getting the recognition that you deserve. Nice article. It gets me pumped up to know that the Cowboys should be able to land two of these guys in your top 50. Let’s just hope they pick the right two. We’ve got to get impact players with our first two picks at least, and hopefully we hit on several more picks. Random questions…any fans ever attend the draft? I’m living in New York City now, and I would love to attend the draft. Any suggestions on how to land tickets?
Hank Hill - February 21, 2012
Check NFL.com
That’s where I’d start
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
I'm not totally sure
but I read somewhere the draft is free, it’s just first come first serve
BrickTop - February 21, 2012 via mobile
Hank
me and rabblerousr have been planning to get a draft part together
I may not go due to some lack of finances, but I hope I can work that out before then
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Chia what do you think about the safety from ND Harrison Smith
djthumpl - February 21, 2012
I dont think he is a top 50 pick right now
I want to see him workout before i move him into my top 50
definitely a good SS prospect though
strong and has some ball skills
his hips and speed are a question, that is why I want to see him this week
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Congrats
Congrats on the promotion Chia. I started watching the combine last year and now I think I am addicted and catn wait for the drills. A guy I look forward to seeing in the drills is Andre Branch. Also, I am not sure about Brockers..not a lot tape on him and he didnt really put up numbers this year…I would hate for us to get another 3-4 end who is just a space eater…a la Marcus Spears
Stickyfeet24 - February 21, 2012
I will be watching closely for Branch myself
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Great article Chia...
I’m soooo looking forward to the combine and the draft. For me…I think I enjoy this part of the season more than the regular season.
Maybe that’s because the Boys have been so disappointing much of the last decade…
We do need to nail it in the 1st couple of rounds. We need big time contributions from our early draft picks. Better or worse…we need to give these guys a lot of playing time…we have no choice!
Thanks Chia…
Pasipple - February 21, 2012
thank you for reading
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
The good news is .....
at least two of these players will be Cowboys next year. Taking out QB, RB, TE, and WR from the choices (not our weaknesses) that leaves 36 of the top 50. If we play the hand thats dealt in the draft maybe we’ll end up with 3.
oddsbettor - February 21, 2012
If Dallas' board falls following their ratings, I wonder how far they would trade down to get an extra 2nd or 3rd pick and still get a key target
oddsbettor - February 21, 2012
Richardson..
If he’s got the highest remaining grade on your board and slips to 14, how do you pass him up?
Earn your star - February 22, 2012
damn
i sure hope we trade down, add another 3, maybe 2…or even another 1 next year. 14 is such a sorry number for this draft. I wouldn’t mind trading down to the mid 20s if Dallas can get a 1 next year.
There’s going to be some value towards the end of the 1st…
Longhorn - February 21, 2012
thats what I think as well, so many different paths they can go
oddsbettor - February 21, 2012
And I hope we draft healthy players this year, no coming off knee injuries, no trying to switch to other positions,
oddsbettor - February 21, 2012
Don't trade down
Trading down is a recipe for disaster. Stay put and pick the best guy there. If anything, I would argue trading up is much better. I understand that we need a lot of help, so I see why you think we should trade down, but by trading down you are passing on a higher rated player and settling for a lesser player. Look at last year. We could have traded down with the Jaguars and got their second round pick, and we could have taken Costanzo or Solder. I sure am glad we didn’t. We missed out on an extra second rounder, but we have a much better player in Tyron Smith than we would have got had we traded down. Look what we did in the 2010 draft. We traded UP to get Dez and Sean Lee. Sorry that we had to lose some picks to do it, but I don’t care. At the end of the day, we gotta find some good football players. Every time you trade down, you’re leaving higher rated players on the board. This is how you build a mediocre franchise over the years. Remember when we traded down for Julius instead of getting Stephen Jackson? We kept trading down in 09 draft, and where did that get us? We should have traded up a couple of spots in round two to get Max Unger, and our o-line would be in much better shape. I think we gotta just stay put and draft best player available. Years of this builds solid football teams with good depth. The difference in the quality of player you can get at 14 and in the mid 20s is huge.
Hank Hill - February 21, 2012
Trading down is a great strategy at times, trading up is a great strategy at times
Strategies are neutral, it’s all about when you employ them. Some situations trading back is great, others it’s a terrible idea.
My bias this year is not to trade back, but I’m open to hearing trade down strategies. I’m willing to be convinced. I don’t think it’s such a crazy thing to say that if DeCastro and Couples are gone we should just trade back a few spots because there will still be high-quality pass rushers and corners available in the early 20s.
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012
I guess it would make sense....
…only if there is a huge drop off of talent after the first 13 are picks. Say the Cowboys have 13 players on tier one, and Cowboys have about 10 guys on that next tier who they think are interchangeable. I guess it could make sense, but I hate to see it unless it’s just a couple of spots, and you can still get a guy you are targeting. Isn’t that what we did with Roy Williams? Traded down like two spots and still got the guy we wanted. I just hope the boys stay true to their board.
Hank Hill - February 21, 2012
I'm with you though
My current belief is that there will be a really really good player sitting there on the board at #14. I also believe we won’t be picking this high again until we are looking for a QB. So we should take advantage of the opportunity and take a really really good player while we have the chance.
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012
well, my point being is
there will be NO Tyron Smith type value at 14. It’s not a vacum, it’s dependent on the players in the draft and position you fall at…
Longhorn - February 21, 2012
Great angle Hank
I went nuts during the Julius Jones fiasco. Called the team more than a few times.
Shaymer - February 21, 2012 via mobile
I still get a little angry over missing Max Unger!! Rec'd,great first write-up Chia!!
NVCowboy4Life - February 22, 2012
Front Pager's names...
Why did OCC remain OCC and rabblerouser remain rabblerouser once they became front page guys, but Pineywoods became Tom Ryle and now Chia has become Archie Barberio when they got promoted?
sportsfanatic21 - February 21, 2012
Oh
and congrats Chia, and nice work on your maiden voyage as a front pager.
sportsfanatic21 - February 21, 2012
It's up to the writer
If they want to pen under their birth name or a pseudonym.
Just ask George Orwell and Stan Lee, both of whose names are fictional.
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012 via mobile
Exactly.
Plus OCC’s true identity is a closely guarded NATO secret.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
Mark Twain
football mensa - February 22, 2012
George Eliot
Fictitious name and gender…
dunkman - February 22, 2012
it was my choice
I wanted to use my real name, I thought it represented the site and myself better
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Warming up to Coples ?
What do you think about Ladarius Green possibly in the 4th round or so ?
Trueblue122 - February 21, 2012
Don't see Green making it through the 3rd
sportsfanatic21 - February 21, 2012
Was he invited to the combine ?
Trueblue122 - February 21, 2012
Yup
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Love Green
He is my pet cat in round three. Jermichael Finley 2.0 (minus the drops)
Hank Hill - February 21, 2012
Green is going to be a good receiving tight end
Who ever passes on him because he’s not a great blocker is missing out on a great weapon for their QB.
A tight end who can stretch the middle of the field, split out as a WR is a great asset for an offense.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
yeah Coples is beginning to grow on me, but slowly
Green would be a good pick in the later rounds, 4 or 5
he is that down the field threat we need at TE
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Thoughts on Malik Jackson out of Tennessee?
6’5" 270, looks very explosive, similar to a JPP mold, reminds me a lot of him. Played inside in Tennessee’s 4-3 base, but depending which base D Dallas decides to play, I think he could be worth a look in the mid to late rounds. He’s my new “pet cat” and one I plan to keep an eye on going forward
KJDH2154 - February 21, 2012
very solid player
love him for a five tech
I dont think he is a pass rusher, a stand up 3-4 guy anyway, he is definitely a five tech
big strong quick
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Love him a lot as a prospect personally.
Great player in high school that got lost in the shuffle at USC. Great athlete with potential.
Creasy729 - February 21, 2012
yeah I like him a lot
one of those athletes that just got lost in a crowd
mid round pick with starter potential out of the gate
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Cha Cha Chia
Could you handle an o-line with Costa or Kowalski at OC if he is surrounded by Ty Smith at LT, DeCastro at LG, Nagy at RG, and Free at RT? Is that a o-line we can win and win big with?
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
hmmm
not with Costa, I am not a big fan of moving forward with Costa, but I guess I could live with the other guys
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
I'd like to see what Costa does in camp
He played better in the second half of the season, and I’d like to see what a full offseason and preseason does for him. I definitely do not want to go into the season with both Costa and Kowalski as the only guys at center, but I wouldn’t mind playing a “wait and see,” game with them unless they get Jones or Brewster,
Omar Little - February 21, 2012
I just dont believe he is an NFL starter
a good backup, but not a starting center in this league
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
I tend to agree with you but there's been players with worse seasons that ended up doing something productive in their careers.
Which is why I want to go to camp with either Brewster or Jones or an open competition for back up Center with a vet in place. It allows Costa a full offseason and a chance to learn from the mistakes from his first handful of games in the NFL. If he doesn’t show enough promise, cut him.
Omar Little - February 22, 2012
Costa needs to be our back-up C-OG and dress on game daybut never see the field.JMHO.
NVCowboy4Life - February 22, 2012
Never heard of a "daybut"..... day but never see the field :-).
NVCowboy4Life - February 22, 2012
Good idea for your first fp
Seeing your board is getting me fired up for the draft. At the combine i’m anxious to see the drill where the linemen shadow each other. It shows how much punch the oline guys have for throwing their balance and direction off. Seems like benchpress will be good for that too. Also be watching for those guys that got alot down under for sealblocks for Felix to shoot through on draws. lol! I wonder what Burfict will get on the wonderlic?
letsgtld - February 21, 2012
Brandon Brooks got robbed
he is the G from Miami of Ohio, no combine invite and he is one of the best guards in the draft
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Agree. No way Brooks should have been left off the invite list.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
he got robbed
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Is there possibly some off field issue?
Tom Ryle - February 22, 2012
idk if that would prevent him from being invited
but it is possible
Archie Barberio - February 23, 2012
walterfootball
just changed our 4th round pick to Tyrone Crawford. yes plz.
Longhorn - February 21, 2012
Look out for McNeese St. kid
forget his name, but he originally played at Tenn. but was kicked off team as freshman for off field issues. he’s a safety I believe.
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
Janzen Jackson
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
yes
TexasGarcia37 - February 21, 2012
Heard some bad things about him.
He was reportedly not just into pot, but harder stuff. And more than once. Big character flags.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
He's been to rehab TWICE thats known about.
No way. Just no.
Nickthegrip - February 22, 2012
After reading what BD26 said
I’ only consider him as an udfa for the time being.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Congratulations for the first front page article
Always enjoyed the quality of your postings, like the rankings too!
livemontana - February 21, 2012
Please do me this one favor...
NEVER call Sean Lee beautiful EVER again. There are hundreds of other adjectives you can use, but pretty and beautiful should never accompany his name.
That’s your first strike, consider yourself on probation.
StarloverinWNC - February 21, 2012
how about graceful ?
Trueblue122 - February 21, 2012
Again that's one of the 100's of other adjectives he could have used.
This is a COWBOYS FOOTBALL board. No girlie talk allowed.
StarloverinWNC - February 21, 2012
I think you missed the joke
There’s nothing about that picture that’s sexy
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012
yes it was a joke
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
If that has him fired up
I guess he missed all the things you promised to do for players in free agency…
dunkman - February 22, 2012
Hmm - yes, are you gonna lick any belly buttons now that you're FP :)?
Nickthegrip - February 22, 2012
I do not know what you speak of....
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
No, Archie wouldn't know
but that Chia guy? He was all over that stuff….
dunkman - February 22, 2012
It'll sneak back out eventually.
Just like Piney still peeks out every now and then when I write.
Tom Ryle - February 22, 2012
haha thats funny coming from a guy with lover in his name
letsgtld - February 21, 2012
This
KJDH2154 - February 21, 2012
I will not be surprised
if Konz falls way down due to medical concerns. I don’ think the Stephen Jones types will gamble on him.
Silverblue - February 21, 2012
Bruce Carter's exploded ACL would beg to differ
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012 via mobile
Ahem
What about Sean Lee and Bruce Carter hmmm? They were given first rd grades but fell into the second rd because of injuries. I think if Konz slips to the second round, Dallas will consider him.
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Different kind.
I can’t remember what Konz’s issue is exactly, but I think it was the kind of thing that can be life threatening in a football environment. Ligaments aren’t.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
blood clots in both lungs
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
Thanks
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
how the hell did he play football with that?
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
Didn't know. Just showed up, apparently.
The loaded chamber had just not come up yet.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
yeah crazy. Dude got real lucky.
BigBlueIntervention - February 21, 2012
ouch
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
i knew I wasn't high on him becuz of him missing time in each of the last three years due to being dinged up...
now hearing this really has me wondering why he is still so highly rated…..
TruBluToTheCore - February 22, 2012
Congrats on the front page post Chia!
I was wondering when they’d get around to realizing your talent!
Blue Eyed Devil - February 21, 2012 via mobile
I am really happy thank you
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Anyone know if Cousins is going to throw at the combine?
letsgtld - February 21, 2012
Osweiler will
Rohpuri - February 21, 2012
I wish we could draft him and groom him to be our starter
Antonio S - February 22, 2012
First post grade: A, easy. Maybe A+!
And now my averaging the mocks chart has 13 expert predictions on it.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
you really think its an A?
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Dang straight.
I still expect you to get better, but this was a nice, informative piece of work. Great first post.
The above opinions are strictly those of the author and do not claim to be official BTB judgments.
I approved of this message.
Tom Ryle - February 22, 2012
thanks bro
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
first front page work chia
nice piece, congrats, your work has paid its dividends
ratware - February 21, 2012
Top 13...
If you look at the top 13 guys…we will probably have a shot at least two of these guys.
I’m figuring that QB Tannehill is going to go in the top 10…too many teams need a starting quarterback…Colts/Redskins/Dolphins are likely to go QB…and even the Browns and Seahawks could go QB in round 1.
And then every year somebody in the top 12 takes a flyer on someone…so I believe at least two of the top 13 falls to the Boys.
You got to love that!
Pasipple - February 21, 2012
Major off field issues?
On June 1, 2009, Jenkins was arrested near a bar by Gainesville Police for fighting and resisting arrest after punching a man in the head around 2 AM. Police were forced to use a taser on Jenkins after fighting escalated. When asked why the fight started, Jenkins told police it was because he thought someone was going to steal the gold chain around his neck.2
On April 23, 2011, Jenkins was cited by a Gainesville police officer and charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession. He was cited for the same violation in January 2011, and paid a $316 fine. He was arrested in May 2009 during a downtown Gainesville fight that resulted in probation and community service. On April 26, 2011, he was dismissed by the Florida Gators football team, due to his second drug related arrest in 3 months.3
Crimsoncaller - February 21, 2012
Dre
Kirkpatrick was arrested on January 17th, 2012 in Manatee County, Florida on marijuana charges. He was booked at 12:49 A.M. (00:49 military time). All charges were dropped on February 6th, 2012.
Crimsoncaller - February 21, 2012
Comparing those two are like comparing apples and oranges.
Crimsoncaller - February 21, 2012
why the Bruce Irvin drop?
somebodyquiet - February 21, 2012
he didn't work out at the Senior Bowl
so I was disappointed with that, honestly he drops because I haven’t seen him in a long time
looking forward to see him workout
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
just saw where he was at on the CBS boards now...at 109....
his stock is falling rapidly….
TruBluToTheCore - February 22, 2012
wow
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Congrats Chia. You'll always remember this Fat Tuesday!
wtshaolin - February 21, 2012
oh its fat tuesday?
lol idk!
but I will remember this one now!
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
My ignorant opinion
Hasn’t Dre been ranked hingher? What am I missing? Is it the dropped pot thing? If it just that and he has servicable speed, I like him.
Shaymer - February 21, 2012 via mobile
*higher
Shaymer - February 21, 2012 via mobile
drops because of his arrest
its the timing of the arrest that drops him on my board
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
I can buy that. Thanks
Hoping he runs ‘quick enough’ but doesn’t WoW anyone. Just want as many options as possible at 14.
Shaymer - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Assuming Bruce Irvin has a solid combine
where do we think he might land?
I’m in the “dont franchise Spencer” camp, and I am trying to find hope in the Jimmy K theory that a rookie can adequately replace him. However, if the FA corner market is as ludicrous as it seems, that rookie might have to be a 2nd or 3rd rounder, and not the #14 pick, who everyone seems to think will be a DB.
Alan Smithee - February 21, 2012
Feel free to jump in on my next post.
It has a bit of an update on the Almost Anthony situation.
Tom Ryle - February 21, 2012
I was thinking 2nd round
Archie Barberio - February 21, 2012
Question
With the arrows, do you also give guys “downgrades” for times that they dropped down the board simply because others are better than they are or just if they did something to negatively affect their draft stock on their own (character concern, poor workout, injury, etc.)?
Omar Little - February 21, 2012
good question, but the answer is yes, both
if a player ranks over them and they go down because of it, the arrow will show it
if a player ranks down because of a negative workout, injury, character the arrow will show it
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
bleacher report matt miller was saying he sees dre kirkpatrick as a FS prospect
Let’s say we go with dre kirkpatrick at #14 and sign a FA cb like Carr. We could draft another cb in later rounds to force ball off the roster assuming butler takes walker’s spot. This would give us a much improved secondary and a tall FS who could also rotate in as a cb. Something to think about.
matt575 - February 22, 2012 via mobile
bleacher report reporter*
matt575 - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Thats an oxymoron.
Nickthegrip - February 22, 2012
free safety
generally considered to be the rangy type with ball-skills, right? Isn’t that(and not so much character issues) the big question mark with Kirkpatrick?
I have a hard time seeing Dallas outbidding everyone for Carr. The Routt contract gives me a bad feeling about what he, Finnegan and Grimes are going to expect. I thought/hoped Dallas could get somebody starter quality without breaking the bank but perhaps that simply isn’t possible this offseason, now a year removed from lockout. If Finnegan really does get Asomugha money like he’s asking for, reportedly, then perhaps the Scandrick deal is slightly, ever so slightly, less insane.
Janoris Jenkins is the guy I think can win himself a Cowboys helmet this week. If he displays maturity and capitulation in the interview process, does well in the cone drill, then I think he has to be the second DB on their board after Claiborne. Dallas needs someone who can come in and play immediately, and for all the drooling over Kirkpatrick’s size and athleticism, the consensus seems to be that he is not necessarily that.
Alan Smithee - February 22, 2012
I construct my draft board differently
only put players that fit the Cowboys and are likely to be available. I am rep for the Cowboys in a couple of 7 rd mocks and I actually have 2 boards. 1) is the top 150 so if Luck falls to 14 we draft him even though he`s not on my exclusive draft board.
2) Is my Draft targets going in.
rd 1
Courtney Upshaw OLB Alabama
*David DeCastro OG Stanford
Janoris Jenkins CB North Alabama
*Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
*Nick Perry OLB Southern California
Peter Konz C Wisconsin
Mark Barron SS Alabama
Dontari Poe DT Memphis
Alameda Ta’amu DT Washington
rd 2
Brandon Boykin CB Georgia
*Dwayne Allen TE Clemson
*Fletcher Cox DE Mississippi State
Alfonzo Dennard CB Nebraska
Cordy Glenn OG Georgia
Kendall Reyes DE Connecticut
*Brandon WashingtonOG Miami (Fla.)
Kelechi Osemele OG Iowa State
Kevin Zeitler OG Wisconsin
Mitchell Schwartz OT California
Doug Martin RB Boise State
Cam Johnson OLB Virginia
*Jonathan MassaquoiOLB Troy
Amini Silatolu OG Midwestern State
rd 3
Ben Jones C Georgia
Michael Brewster C Ohio State
Josh Norman CB Coastal Carolina
Jamell Fleming CB Oklahoma
Trumaine Johnson CB Montana
George Iloka FS Boise State
James Brown OT Troy
Brett Roy OLB Nevada
Hebron Fangupo DT Brigham Young
Bobby Wagner ILB Utah State
Joe Adams WR Arkansas
*Bernard Pierce RB Temple
*LaMichael James RB Oregon
rd 4
Coryell Judie CB Texas A&M
Mike Harris CB Florida State
Lucas Nix OG Pittsburgh
Jeff Allen OT Illinois
Tony Bergstrom OT Utah
Dominique Hamilton DE Missouri
Jake Bequette OLB Arkansas
*Ronnell Lewis OLB Oklahoma
Mychal Kendricks ILB California
B.J. Coleman QB Chattanooga
Kirk Cousins QB Michigan State
Ryan Lindley QB San Diego State
Marvin Jones WR California
*Eric Page WR Toledo
T.Y. Hilton WR Florida International
Markelle Martin FS Oklahoma State
George Bryan TE North Carolina State
Devon Wylie WR Fresno State
Keenan Robinson ILB Texas
rd 5
Micah Pellerin CB Hampton
Keith Tandy CB West Virginia
Kevin Koger TE Michigan
Andrew Datko OT Florida State
Akiem Hicks DE Regina
Bruce Irvin OLB West Virginia
Bobby Rainey RB Western Kentucky
Bryan Anger P California
Christian Thompson FS South Carolina State
Ladarius Green TE La.-Lafayette
Joe Looney OG Wake Forest
Kyle Wilber OLB Wake Forest
rd 6
Desmond Marrow CB Toledo
Rhett Ellison TE Southern California
Quentin Saulsberry C Mississippi State
Jeff Adams OT Columbia
Blake Gideon FS Texas
rd 7
Cameron Chism CB Maryland
Josh Pleasant CB Kent State
Chase Ford TE Miami (Fla.)
Matt Conrath DT Virginia
Chigbo Anunoby DT Morehouse
Austin Davis QB Southern Mississippi
Aaron Corp QB Richmond
Thomas Mayo WR California (PA)
Neiko Thorpe FS Auburn
Kelcie McCray SS Arkansas State
ziggy19 - February 22, 2012
In the second rd
I’d replace Fletcher Cox with Vinny Curry and also replace Alfonzo Dennard with Chase Minnifield.
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Cox will be a first rounder.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
gonna be watching him at the combine
good chance I move him up.
ziggy19 - February 22, 2012
not a Curry fan as a 3-4 OLB
he`s a 4-3 that will need to add weight.
ziggy19 - February 22, 2012
Curry has comparable height and weight
to Ware, Spencer, and Butler
Rohpuri - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Mocks before FA are exercises in 'Look at Me'
and nothing more
burmafrd1944 - February 22, 2012
With some mocks, yes
But others, like Chia’s, make me more informed. Let’s me learn ABOUT players and the thought process behind opinions. Mocks don’t have to be spot on, but a good one creates a discourse of ideas, strategy, and perspective which I find valuable.
Shaymer - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Right, especially
where he’s simply rating the top prospects, not who Dallas is taking. I’ve learned more from this process than I would have come up with on my own.
dunkman - February 22, 2012
very tough process
when I did my first board last year, it took me like 3 hours to sort it out
now i can do it under an hour after having the info in front of me
but what a hard process
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Yeah, I repect those who do it well.
and JJ and crew have millions riding on it as well, while coaches and scouts are actively betting their careers. Some high stakes there…
dunkman - February 22, 2012
we do a free agency in one of them
and in the other it will be after the major free agency moves.
In the FA mock I`m gonna try to resign L Robinson and Fiametta.
target FS Adams fr Clev C Koppen fr Patriots and CB Carr.
ziggy19 - February 22, 2012
Hey chia, we had talked about Bruce Irvin a couple of months ago. I had concerns he wasn't big enough, had no power move just beat people to the edge.
You had him at 30 and dropped him ALL the way out of your top 50. Did you see something you didn’t like? He didn’t play in senior bowl, which sucks. He was also playing the wrong position at WVU. I think he has good potential but I too think he’s more in that 50-60 range. What caused you to drop him all the way out of your top 50?
Dynamicduo - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Irvin is a good college player.
Nothing stands out about him on a pro level. He is small and not really powerful. Chia was correct in dropping him out of the top 50.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
No disrespect but I wasn't asking you.
Chia had obviously seen something to have him at 30 before, just curious as to what changed. Did he look at him in more depth, Here something, Etc?
I agree with you though, but I have a feeling he’s going to put up insane numbers at the combine moving him up a lot of boards. I think he’ll have the best numbers out of all olb’s in 40, cone, and vertical. He’s a crazy athlete just doesn’t have power.
Dynamicduo - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Hear*
Dynamicduo - February 22, 2012 via mobile
I hope that didn't come out wrong. I agree with you except he is crazy quick.
I was just specifically wondering what chia’s thoughts were.
Dynamicduo - February 22, 2012 via mobile
Irvin gets stonewalled vs good teams.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
well
I had him at 30 because I think he has first round talent, but not seeing him for months and some stuff I saw on tape when i studied him again made me question my ranking of him
this combine is HUGE for his draft stock
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
I dropped him
because he did not work out at the Senior Bowl and I have not seen him in months
I like his skill set, and I think he was used in the wrong defense
I have some questions about his strength and pass rushing moves, but I am looking forward to seeing him workout this week
his potential and skill set is there for him to be a top 50 pick
I had to drop him on my board, a guy like Vinny Curry deserved to be ranked higher than him for now
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Yo it's really fitting for your first post to be a big board
I liked the additions of Vinny Curry, Ta’amu, and Crody Glenn to your big board. And i was also glad you let Mike Adams rise in your board, he absolutely rocked it at the Senior Bowl. Also, quick question: Do you think Massaquoi is as high on team’s radars as he is in your board? I keep seeing mock drafts where he ends up as low as a 4th rounder. If he tests out well at the combine, how high do you think he can go?
LilZtretch - February 22, 2012
idk
I think I may be a bit high on Massaquoi, but man I really like him a lot
if he has a good combine, you will see him rise on other boards
plus I like Troy players and I like this pass rusher from Troy and they have a good record of producing talent there
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
One negative I noticed on Massaquoi
was his ball awareness, what are your thoughts on that?
Star_Scream - February 24, 2012
a big plus on Mike Adams
he really impressed me down in Mobile
if we didn’t take Tron last year, we really might have had a choice between three really good OT’s this year
still love the Tron pick, dude is a complete stud, don’t want to make it sound otherwise
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Tron has icon talent Chia. You don't get that every draft.
It’s up to him to develop it.
football mensa - February 22, 2012
Good point about how fitting this was, Lil.
A perfect choice.
Tom Ryle - February 22, 2012
I know i'm a Razorbacks fan..
But I cant for the life of me figure out why he’s not listed higher on anyones board.
He had the same number of sacks this year as Melvin Ingram, is listed as 6’5 and 270+ and reportedly ran a 4.59 40 yards dash…he was a beast on the line and a team leader as well. He seems like a 4-3 guy, so we probably couldn’t use him…but he’s not on anybody’s board…a lot of people have him around the 14-15th DE on the board…am I mising something?
markdamack - February 22, 2012
He being Jake Bequette
Lol, that’s probably help.
markdamack - February 22, 2012
that'd*
markdamack - February 22, 2012
I think he is a five tech, kind of a tweener as they say
I don’t have him rated over, say Kendall Reyes because I think Reyes has a skill set that translates better to the NFL
Bequette is a guy I am interested in, I have a few more months to break him down and analyze him
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Yeah, I mean...I don't miss a Razorback football game
But you’d probably be way more equipped to breakdown the actual tape/stats/output than I
…that is…
if you haven’t gone all hollywood on us now! lol
markdamack - February 22, 2012
Great official first post Chia
Antonio S - February 22, 2012
Who is Chandler Jones?
Would he be better at Pass Rushing than Spencer?
AustonianAggie - February 22, 2012
he might be a project in the 34 as an OLB, but if the Cowboys like BIG 34 OLB's, he may be a good target
but I love his upside and skill set
cannot wait to see him workout this week, he can answer a lot of questions about his speed and burst in the drills
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
Congrats AB, and great work as always
Have you heard anything on Duenta Williams(?) who took the year off after not being drafted last year?
GalTex - February 22, 2012
Williams is no longer pursuing a football career.
One.Cool.Customer - February 22, 2012
wow
what a shame, that injury ruined that kids career
Archie Barberio - February 22, 2012
cheers, OCC ... best of luck to him
GalTex - February 22, 2012
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