Predict a Steal

[Zap 0]

I hate predicting players to bust unless they're jerks. This class is a high character class as well as a very deep and talented class. There's a few bad seeds, I know, but overall it's a solid group.

 

So, as a spinoff to the bust predictions.

 

Predict success for a player way beyond his perceived draft position.

 

In other words, pick who will be a steal in this draft?

 

I have a few, but I don't have time at the moment.

[Orgazmo 2]

David Thomas, Texas.

Projected by many to be a second day pick, he reminds me of Shannon Sharpe being drafted in the 7th round as an oversized receiver. Reeves converted him to tight end and it worked out pretty well. Sloan, on the other hand, is an oversized receiver already familiar with the tight end position. All he would need is a chance and a little time to get bigger.

[Hagy34 0]

Marcus Vick.

[Zap 0]

QBs

 

Charlie Whitehurst could be a steal. He's projected in the late 2nd to late 3rd round, with rumors he may fall to day two. He's tall, pretty big for a youngster, and much more athletic than given credit for. He rarely had a good situation at Clemson, but he sure handled it all with a professional attitude. He's tough as they come, very confident, and an excellent student of the game. I think the 3 systems in 4 years may work to his advantage in some respects. He doesn't have a huge arm, but he certainly can make all the throws, and some of the armstrength concerns have to do with him playing hurt and then working out while recovering from surgery. His dad was an NFL QB for awhile, so he has the pedigree, and he's been around the game his whole life.

 

Ingle Martin could be a surprise down the road. He's projected as a 6th rounder, possibly undrafted UFA. He has all the tools Cutler has, which means better tools than Leinart. Great arm. Very accurate. He's got decent size and great athleticism. Before leaving Florida (because of Leak) they considered using him as a WR. He led DII in punting too. He's a gamer. Very poised and very determined. His best moments were when the chips were down.

 

Dallas needs someone to develop for the future and I would be happy if they gave either of these two a shot. Henson is doing well in NFLE, but it's taking him too long.

[uubeee 0]

Mike Hass WR Oregon St.

 

The knock on him is his speed. But the guy can catch anything, has good size and can get up in the air. Probably the best router runner in college ball.

[Wildman 0]

Whitehurst could be that guy...he has all the tools physically and made much better decisions this year. He's going to be a coach's wet dream in terms of potential.

 

I'm going swing for the fences and say Bruce Gradkowski, Toledo's QB and WR Charles Sharon of Bowling Green.

 

Gradkowski has great athleticism, an adequate NFL arm, terrific accuracy, pocket presence, and polish with the play action game. He's very cool under pressure...I loved watching this guy play.

 

Charles Sharon may not even get drafted, but he runs excellent routes and has good hands. He's a very smart receiver and his initial quickness is good enough to overcome his slow 40 time.

 

Mike Hass WR Oregon St.

 

The knock on him is his speed. But the guy can catch anything, has good size and can get up in the air. Probably the best router runner in college ball.

 

 

I like Hass a lot, too....not sure I agree on the route running, but the concentration, fearlessness, and finding a way to create space...

[Zap 0]

Whitehurst could be that guy...he has all the tools physically and made much better decisions this year. He's going to be a coach's wet dream in terms of potential.

 

I'm going swing for the fences and say Bruce Gradkowski, Toledo's QB and WR Charles Sharon of Bowling Green.

 

Gradkowski has great athleticism, an adequate NFL arm, terrific accuracy, pocket presence, and polish with the play action game. He's very cool under pressure...I loved watching this guy play.

 

Charles Sharon may not even get drafted, but he runs excellent routes and has good hands. He's a very smart receiver and his initial quickness is good enough to overcome his slow 40 time.

I like Hass a lot, too....not sure I agree on the route running, but the concentration, fearlessness, and finding a way to create space...

 

 

Sharon never stood out to me, but then I only watched BG twice. Boise State and against Gradkowski (Toledo). I focused on the QBs. I agree with Gradkowski. I left him for you, knowing you liked him. He sure showed up Omar Jacobs, imo. He's a great competitor and playmaker for a QB. He plays with will. I have a feeling his stock is much higher than most think.

 

I was going to write a couple paragraphs about a couple players at each position. Hass would be the 2nd WR I'd pick as a steal. Now I have to think of another one, but I can see him giving defenses fits for years. He's tough, great hands, good routes, getting better every year. I like the chip on his shoulder too. He has something to prove. Hope it serves him well.

[Wildman 0]

Sharon never stood out to me, but then I only watched BG twice. Boise State and against Gradkowski (Toledo). I focused on the QBs. I agree with Gradkowski. I left him for you, knowing you liked him. He sure showed up Omar Jacobs, imo. He's a great competitor and playmaker for a QB. He plays with will. I have a feeling his stock is much higher than most think.

 

I was going to write a couple paragraphs about a couple players at each position. Hass would be the 2nd WR I'd pick as a steal. Now I have to think of another one, but I can see him giving defenses fits for years. He's tough, great hands, good routes, getting better every year. I like the chip on his shoulder too. He has something to prove. Hope it serves him well.

 

I like Jacobs, but I think he needs time to develop. If I hear one more Hass is like Ricky Proehl comment...Hass is much bigger and a different player. I agree with you about his prospects.

 

See, I liked Sharon's game versus Toledo. I was impressed with his routes, hands, and separation off the line. Among other teams, I saw him versus Wisconsin. I think he's a long shot pick, but I like trying to make that kind of a guess for the fun of it.

[Let Da Big Dog Eat 40]

Brian Calhoun, Wi. Has Westy like abilities. Depends who drafts him of course. But the guy has serious wiggle and speed. He just makes people miss. I am not saying he is draftable but he should be on your radar. If he becomes a #2 somewhere and gets signigicant time a a 3rd down back, watch out. If the starter gets hurts, he will put up serious #'s. See FWP with more TD's and more passing #'s. The guy is a football player.

[MahSoonerz 0]

David Thomas, Texas.

Projected by many to be a second day pick, he reminds me of Shannon Sharpe being drafted in the 7th round as an oversized receiver. Reeves converted him to tight end and it worked out pretty well. Sloan, on the other hand, is an oversized receiver already familiar with the tight end position. All he would need is a chance and a little time to get bigger.

 

I am not sold on Thomas' NFL ability. I just got the impression that he could get away with not pushing himself 100% in that offense and took advantage of that. He's in for a shock, more than other rookies I think. But if he survives that, he could be really good in a couple years. Certainly can't deny his talent.

[MahSoonerz 0]

My homer nominee is mah Sooner WR Travis Wilson. I think he is better than either Brandon Jones or Mark Bradley. His stock is down because of his inconsistent senior year with injuries and a bad QB, although to be honest not all of his drops last year were Rhomar's fault. He does run great routes and wins most of the close battles. I predict that surrounding him with NFL quality players is about all it will take to make him the TD machine he was junior year.

[Captian America 0]

I agree on Charlie Whitehurst he clearly out played Cutler in the Senior Bowl and looked way more poised.

[Second Place Don't Pay 0]

Devon Hester - University of Miami

 

When a team figures out how to get this guy involved...he reminds me of Eric Metcalf. And Metcalf was pretty valuable.

[Sho Nuff 720]

Of course as a Wisconsin homer....I will think this.

 

But Jonathon Orr has all the tools to be a damn good WR in the NFL. If he goes somewhere and can be a #3-4-or-5 guy and work his way up...I see big things for him.

 

Someone already mentioned Calhoun. People talk about his 40 time at the combine...but forget that the guy was part of a National Championship 4X200 relay team...he is fast...he is quick...he showed it with pads on during the season. Ask Tommy Tuberville and the Auburn defense if Calhoun is slow.

 

I disagree about Ingle Martin...that guy was awful in Florida and it would not have taken much to beat him out of the job.

 

Other guys seeming to slip. Charles Spencer OG....saw him earlier going in the top of the 2nd round...he has been dropping to possibly the 3rd round.

[jdswan922 0]

Maurice Stovall

[Apu Nahasapeemapetilon 0]

Darryl Tapp, DE, VT

[Chronic Husker 85]

Although his stock has been going up, Jeremy Bloom could return a couple kickoffs/punts for TDs this year for whomever frafts him.

 

Dude can fly.

[GhostofMeanMachine99 1]

Justin Holland, QB, Colorado State

"Big, strong-armed quarterback, with a nice release, who should‘ve been invited in our opinion. Threw for over 3,100 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2005. Too many career interceptions and a history of injuries may’ve cost him a spot. ESPN guru Kirk Herbsteit loves Holland’s physical skills."

 

"Strengths – A great arm and decent height for an NFL quarterback, Holland can make almost any down field throw. Once he gets in to a rhythm, he is almost impossible to stop. Prototypical pocket passer.

 

Weaknesses – Makes far too many mistakes to be considered reliable. While he has ideal height, he needs to add some weight and get a little stronger if he wants to take his game to the next level. There is potential here, but some team will have to be very patient with him."

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/foot...ders/index.html

 

 

I watched the kid play a few times, and he can play. He's not afraid to throw the ball down the field, and he can make every throw. He has the on-field leadership qualities and confidence you need to be successful in the NFL. In the right situation and the right QB coach, he could blossom into a quality NFL QB.

[Bad_Mo_focher 1]

Marcus Vick.

 

I think he meant predict "a" not "who will".....

 

Whoever drafts Vick better make sure they keep him away from fast food joints.

[lomoman 0]

I watched a game back in 10/05 between Troy State and Louisiana Monroe and I saw two phenominal defensive athletes who I haven't heard too much about ...

 

1. Brandon Guillery - LB/DE from Lousiana -Monroe - guy's a phenominal athlete - He was a beast in this game. He's about 6'3, 250 and fast. Lines up as a DE, but will definitely be a LB in the pros.. Would be shocked if he isn't a decent LB.

 

 

2. Bernard Davis - Troy - OLB - guy just looked like a good LB - haven't heard his name mentioned- looked good in pass coverage and hit like a ton of bricks...

[ShaneFalco 0]

Greg Jennings, WR, Western Michigan

 

Not perfect in terms of measurables. A little undersized but still has decent speed. Amazing hands. Great kick returner as well. Runs great routes.

 

Got to watch the kid play at Western. Amazing. In one game he caught, rushed, and threw for a TD. Natural leader. Could be a great 3rd-4th round pick.

[surferskin 30]

Greg Jennings, WR, Western Michigan

 

Not perfect in terms of measurables. A little undersized but still has decent speed. Amazing hands. Great kick returner as well. Runs great routes.

 

Got to watch the kid play at Western. Amazing. In one game he caught, rushed, and threw for a TD. Natural leader. Could be a great 3rd-4th round pick.

 

he'd be a great fit for the lions.

[ShaneFalco 0]

he'd be a great fit for the lions.

 

I wish the Lions spent later picks on WRs rather than first rounders year after year. I think he would be a good fit, but he's definitely not a need. Lions won't take him unless he falls far, and probably not then either.

 

 

Another sly remark ridiculing the Lions draft ineptness?

[surferskin 30]

Another sly remark ridiculing the Lions draft ineptness?

[George Carlin 1]

Ryan Leaf

 

Anyone ever steal more than this guy?

[onejayhawk 3]

Ryan Leaf

 

Anyone ever steal more than this guy?

Blow away and leaf us alone.

 

J

[Raider 84 29]

Joesph Addai- not sure if he is a steal, but he should be a great starting rb!

[SoloMatisse 0]

It seems like Joe Addai may end up in the prime RB destination if Indy gets to their slot and he's still on the table. Everyone knows about him, but getting taken as the 4th or 5th RB by the Colts could be a major coux for both parties.

[ROBOKOP 0]

WR Jeff Webb San Diego St. 6-2 1/8 211 4.40

 

This guy is going to be a steal past 3rd round.

[Zap 0]

WR Jeff Webb San Diego St. 6-2 1/8 211 4.40

 

This guy is going to be a steal past 3rd round.

 

One of my favorites from a homer perspective. I saw him in HS, played my alma mater, and I saw him live a few times as an Aztec, and several televised games. His old local paper is running his draft diary and a new story every week. I've never been sold on him for the NFL, and Hank Baskett looked better to me this year when I went to a game. He might be a little soft. He's not one for a lot of RAC, and he's not one who excels over the middle. He will get in a zone and catch every thing thrown anywher near him. He doesn't play as fast as he timed, but he's decent route runner, just a little timid over the middle.

 

It sounds like Tennessee, Pittsburgh and KC have the most interest. Pittsburgh told him they didn't expect him to be there at the end of the second round. I have my doubts about that, and I have doubts that Pitt would spend that pick on him. End of the 3rd maybe. I can tell you he will be heartbroken if he doesn't go on the first day. He has a big ego, not in a bad way, but he's very excited about Pittsburgh telling him that.

[Wildman 0]

I like Greg Jennings, it's funny how he didn't even get invited to the combine prior to the East-West Shrine Bowl and suddenly Kiper has him as his #4 WR on his positional rankings. Just shows you how volatile this evaluation process is...

[jdswan922 0]

Another guy that has really slipped due to injury that I like is Omar Jacobs. You don't hear too much about him and I have seen him as late as 4th round in some mocks.

[Captian America 0]

Another guy that should start and make an impact right away is Sinorice Moss. Keep him on your radar when you draft your team.

[Dog Face Gremlins211 0]

Heres Another guy that should start and make an impact right away is Maurice Stovall. Keep him on your radar when you draft your team.

 

 

 

here going to be a moster if he gos to the right team

[t.j 35]

WR Jason Avant, Michigan

 

HB DonTrell Moore, New Mexico

 

QB Travis Lulay, Montana State (not really)

[LSUtiger 9]

Joseph Addai - attempting to hide my bias of course but Joe will make some team very very very happy and will be a great value pick in the early second round (assuming the Colts choose Maroney instead).

 

He's versatile, can catch the football, run over or around you (4.3 forty), etc.

 

Reminds me of a younger Ahman Green but faster.

[JT 137]

Lawrence Maroney/Minnesota will have the best career of any RB selected in this years draft. Most reports have himas the 3rd RB selected.

 

I know many folks will say that a sure 1st rounder doesn't qualify as a sleeper, but this guy will be an All Pro, and a top 5 RB for years to come.

[CantTouchThis 23]

Jason Avant He is a posession WR, but, i think he will be a solid producer throughout his career. Something like 1100 yards and 8-11 TD type guy.

[MicktheGreat 1]

Some potential steals that come to my mind...

 

QB--D. J. Shockley, GEORGIA

This guy's going very, very late in a lot of mocks. In fact, he might even go undrafted. He's got some serious injury ??? and is a little undersized. However, he's got a cannon for an arm, is very athletic, is a good runner, has good intangibles, and has the potential to develop into a very solid backup QB in 2-3 years if he gets in the right system and has some good coaching.

RB--Gerald Riggs Jr., TENNESSEE

He's got some injury concerns and never handled a full-load in college. However, he's got excellent size, OK speed, runs with lots of power, and hardly ever goes down on the first hit. Watching UT a few times last season (especially during the LSU overtime game), it seemed to me that Riggs was the best thing that offense had going for them but Fulmer under-utilized him way too much.

WR--Jason Avant, MICHIGAN

This guy is ranked below WRs like Sinorice Moss, Derek Hagan, Demetrius Williams, etc. in the minds of a lot of people. And while Avant isn't as fast as you'd like, he's got OK size and seems to make all the tough catches. IMO, he seems like a safer pick than a lot of WRs ranked higher than him, and I'd be surprised if he doesn't become a solid contributor for whatever team drafts him.

TE--Joe Klopfenstein, COLORADO

Good size and speed for a TE. Whenever I saw Colorado play the past couple of years, it seemed like this guy was always getting open and making catches. He'll probably get drafted behind other TEs like Marcedes Lewis and Dominique Byrd, but I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up being a better (or at least, more consistent) pro than either.