The Shutdown Corner draft podcast with Greg Cosell: Evaluating the WR/TE class A few words of wisdom from Mr. Cosell: On Tennessee WR Cordarrelle Patterson: "Patterson will be drafted high solely because of his size, and his dynamic movement. I don't think he's anywhere close to being a quality receiver in terms of the subtleties of how to run routes. In fact, he's so much quicker and more dynamic with the ball in his hands, as opposed to running routes. Running routes, he's not that dynamic, because he doesn't know how to do it yet. He needs to go to a team with a very good receivers coach, and he needs to be taught how to become a receiver." On West Virginia WR Tavon Austin: "He may be one of my favorite players in this draft, and I spent a lot of time talking about this on Twitter the other day. I would select this kid in the top 10 or 12 in the draft, and I think that this is where the league is going. I wrote about this in my last column on Shutdown Corner. The NFL has now become a passing space league in many ways, and the conventional concepts of how to use receivers -- that's a little old-school. I think Tavon Austin fits where this league is going." On Clemson WR DeAndre Hopkins: "To me, what stood out -- I think he has excellent hands. He has a great ability to snatch the ball away from his body, and great body control. He's a very competitive guy with the ball in the air. I think he's a little straight-line in his movement, but very strong hands, and deceptive speed. I wouldn't call him a burner, but he has deceptive speed. Guys like this -- he'll obviously play in the league, and he might be very good, but he's not what I would call a smooth, fluid guy." On Cal WR Keenan Allen: "He's a smoother accelerator than Hopkins. He's got deceptive vertical speed. Again, not a burner, but a smoother, quicker guy. What I really liked when watching him is that he's very compact in his vertical stem -- every route looked the same. I remember talking with cornerbacks years ago, when they played against Jimmy Smith, the old Jaguars receiver, who was really good. They would say that about him, and how he was so tough to defend because of that." On Notre Dame TE Tyler Eifert: "He's my favorite tight end in this draft. I think his athleticism and movement is number-one in this draft. A very smooth athlete who shows the ability to run routes from split wide receiver positions against cornerbacks. He's made back-shoulder catches in the seam against cornerbacks. In today's NFL, he's a first-round pick."
The ‘Cosell Doctorine,’ Pt. 2: Ranking the receivers is an impossible task Let’s focus on wide receiver. In my last column, I spoke of what I believe will be the evolving trend in the NFL: multiple receivers, at least three and ideally four or even all five eligibles, capable of aligning anywhere in the formation. As I postulated, it will not be relevant as to the traditional positional designations as long as they are “Jokers”, chess pieces that can be arranged anywhere on the board. With that as prologue, let’s look at Keenan Allen from California. Allen has excellent size at 6’2” and 206 pounds. He fits the “Joker” profile I described. He has extensive experience both outside and in the slot, and is more than capable of being an effective weapon out of the backfield, given his punt return background and his strong run-after-catch ability. More often than not he looked like a big running back with the ball in his hands. One thing I really liked about Allen was that he had a very compact vertical stem, making every route initially look the same. Corners will always tell you that that presents problems because there is no tell, no indication of what the route might be. Allen is a fluid route runner with excellent quickness in-and-out of breaks. As I mentioned, he was very efficient with free access off the line of scrimmage, but he also showed the quick feet to defeat press man coverage, with the kind of short space burst and explosiveness that’s needed. He had a wide catching radius, consistently displaying the ability to snatch the ball with his hands, and away from his body. Many might see him more as a short to intermediate receiver, but I evaluated him as a smooth accelerator with deceptive speed, if not timed speed, and the ability to get on top of corners. Watching Allen reminded me of a pretty darn good NFL receiver when he came out of college in 2001 as the 30th overall pick in that draft: Reggie Wayne. There are three receivers in this draft that have somewhat similar traits, and I liked each one of them on tape: DeAndre Hopkins of Clemson, Kansas State’s Chris Harper and Tennessee Tech’s Da’rick Rogers, who led the SEC in receptions at the University of Tennessee in 2011. All three are big bodies: Harper is the shortest at 6’1¾”, and Hopkins weighs the least at 214 pounds. They each attacked the ball, and they consistently made contested catches with excellent timing, body flexibility and strong hands. They were very competitive with the ball in the air. In that sense, they were reminiscent of Anquan Boldin. By the way, Boldin ran a 4.7 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine in 2003. That has not seemed to negatively impact his NFL career. Rogers was the most surprising to me. Not only did I look at his Tennessee Tech tape, but I went back and evaluated his SEC tape the year before, including a fascinating slot matchup with LSU’s Tyrann Mathieu. It was a matchup Rogers dominated with his utilitarian combination of size, strength, aggression, short area quickness, and run-after-catch. The more I studied Rogers, the more I liked him. He played with an edge, demonstrating physicality, toughness and competitiveness. What I kept seeing was deceptive acceleration as a route runner. He did not have top end, or long speed, but he understood how to use his vertical stem to break down, or close the yardage cushion that existed at the snap of the ball between his alignment and the corner. That allowed him to get on top of corners and beat them deep. It’s a subtlety of route running that I saw from Rogers on a consistent basis. Rogers, Harper and Hopkins raise fascinating questions about the value of wide receivers that would not, based purely on attributes, project as number one receivers, like a Calvin Johnson or an A.J. Green. Again, value is a word that’s freely tossed around this time of year, as if it’s more important when a player is drafted as opposed to what seems to me to be the whole point of the draft, which is to acquire good players who will improve your roster and your team. I would not have a problem with any of the three being chosen in the second round, or even late in the first, for a team that needs a receiver, such as the Houston Texans or the Baltimore Ravens. Again, the academic discussion of “value” has no meaning when it’s week six of the regular season and you’re lacking quality receivers, which handicaps your quarterback in a passing league, and thus limits your ability to win. Two more receivers that intrigued me were Aaron Dobson of Marshall, and Aaron Mellette from Elon University. Again, both are big, which clearly seems to be an increasing trend as the game evolves. The 6’2½”, 217 pound Mellette carries the small school label, immediately diminishing his value in the eyes of many. His three year domination at a Division I-AA school is routinely dismissed due to the dreaded “level of competition” moniker, the ultimate cross to bear. I went back to 2011, when Elon played Vanderbilt. You may recall that Casey Hayward was on that Commodore team. Lo and behold, he had a difficult time with Mellette’s impressive mix of size, hands, and plus athleticism. Overall, Mellette gives you a lot to work with, with his size/movement combination. Dobson, at 6’3” and 210 pounds, was a strong blend of size and fluid movement. He was quicker than fast, regardless of his outstanding 4.42 40 time at his recent pro day. Yet, like many tall wide receivers, his height and stride length generated deceptive speed on vertical routes. What continually stood out the more I evaluated Dobson were his vice grip hands, and his body control and flexibility to adjust to the ball in the air, resulting in both contested and difficult catches. He’s not quite Larry Fitzgerald (few are, plus Fitzgerald’s play speed is a lot faster than people think; just talk to NFL corners), but I saw some similar traits in Dobson. A year ago, Justin Blackmon, Michael Floyd, Kendall Wright and A.J. Jenkins were all selected in the first round. Are they significantly better NFL prospects than Dobson, Rogers, Hopkins and Harper? I would argue they are not. I will end with Justin Hunter from Tennessee, the most physically talented wide receiver prospect in this draft class. He is, without question, the most explosive as a route runner with his long body (6’4”), route fluidity, vertical speed and playmaking ability at the catch point. Like every receiver entering the NFL, he is not a finished product. (Sometimes we forget that). He displayed inconsistent hands, with too many easy drops. And the lingering effects of his 2011 ACL injury, likely more mental than physical, cannot be dismissed in any evaluation. But he has legitimate acceleration and vertical explosion that clearly projects to the NFL, and it will impact games. Hunter is the most intriguing receiver on the board. The tape shows you how he moves: he’s smooth, supple and explosive. He looks like AJ Green with his body type and his fluid strides. He’s not the receiver at this point that Green was coming out of Georgia two years ago, but if Hunter develops and grows as a professional, always a question with all but a few prospects, he has a chance to be a Pro Bowl player. I’ve talked to some who see Randy Moss comparisons. Regardless, there are not many with his height, length and movement. I’d be surprised if his name wasn’t called on the first night. The common thread with all the wide receivers I’ve touched on: size. It’s a fascinating dichotomy that is now crystallizing in the NFL. Smaller receivers have increased value due to the expansion of the multi-dimensional “Joker”, the player who can align anywhere in the formation. On the other hand, bigger wideouts provide matchup problems for smaller corners on the outside. The NFL has always been cyclical. Is offense a step of the defense right now? Defensive coaches think so.
might have to move all the way up to #8 to get him ...but he'd be worth it. One of the most dynamic offensive players in the last several years of the draft. Doesn't exactly fit into the mainstream of Kubiak's system, but he's a guy you scheme for. A real creative offensive mind would have a field day with this guy. He's a game-changer ...a literal home run threat every time he touches the ball. Worth paying the price to move up for.
Rating the NFL draft prospects: Wide receivers, tight ends The Journal Sentinel's Bob McGinn assesses the top receivers in the draft next week. Included is each player's height, weight, 40-yard dash time and projected round. WIDE RECEIVERS 1. TAVON AUSTIN, West Virginia (5-8 ½, 173, 4.30, 1) - Most exciting player in the draft. "He's a 'Holy (expletive)' player," one scout said. "I don't like little guys, but I love that guy. He can do the same stuff that (Randall) Cobb did in the slot. And he's never missed a game." Moved to RB against Oklahoma on Nov. 17 and rushed for 344 yards in a 50-49 defeat. "You throw that game on, you think you're looking at Reggie Bush," another scout said. "More exciting. I think he's the best player in the draft. Very soft-spoken but he's football-minded. Well-built. It's not like he's some miniature guy." Finished with 288 receptions for 3,413 yards (11.9 average) and 29 touchdowns. Also rushed for 1,031 (9.5) and six TDs. Native of Baltimore. "He is (better than Cobb)," a third scout said. "He'll carry the ball, run reverses, play in the slot and try to match against a slow corner on the outside. You're trying to give him the ability to make one or two really big plays a game. Whether he can hold up is the $64,000 question." 2. CORDARRELLE PATTERSON, Tennessee (6-2, 217, 4.34, 1) - Junior-college transfer from Rock Hill, S.C. "Really competitive, really athletic, really raw," one scout said. "When he catches the ball he never gives up on a run. He might drive people crazy because he will back up, he will run laterally, he will do whatever. I thought he caught it well." Played just one season of major-college football before declaring a year early. Caught 46 passes for 778 yards (16.9) and five TDs. "No, heavens no," exclaimed another scout when asked if Patterson was as good as Dez Bryant. "I don't know that he's not as athletic as Dez, but Dez is freakish strength-wise. He could be really good but he's not very smart." Should be a threat returning kickoffs while learning how to play on offense. "He's the best returner I've seen since Devin Hester," a third scout said. "He's got a background that's a little bit scary but, boy, is he explosive." 3. KEENAN ALLEN, California (6-2, 210, 4.55, 1-2) - Third-year junior from Greensboro, N.C. "Not as dynamic as Hakeem Nicks but he's a good player," one scout said. "He's big, catches the ball and is smart. Not a big-play threat by any stretch, which is what Hakeem gives you." Golden Bears' all-time reception leader with 205. Gained 2,570 yards (12.5) and scored 17 TDs. "Very smooth for a big man," another scout said. "Good hands. Good athlete." Suffered a posterior cruciate knee ligament injury in November and, in a workout April 9, ran 40 yards in just 4.71. "Complete player," a third scout said. "His half-brother (Zach Maynard) was the quarterback and he sucked. Just an awful player. It probably cost him six or seven touchdowns and 30 more receptions. He compares to Michael Floyd from a year ago." 4. ROBERT WOODS, Southern California (6-0 ½, 200, 4.45, 1-2) - Third-year junior set the Trojans' record for receptions with 252. "He and Patterson are probably the two best after the catch," one scout said. Gained 2,930 yards (11.6) and scored 32 TDs. "He was limited by comparison because of (Marqise) Lee," another scout said. "Good avoiding bump. Gets on the cornerback quickly. Quick out of his cuts. Lays out well. He's a speed and quick guy." USC coach Lane Kiffin compared his playing style to all-time great Jerry Rice. "Seems to me everything he does has been manufactured," a third scout said. "There's something missing with him." From Carson, Calif. 5. DeANDRE HOPKINS, Clemson (6-1, 212, 4.54, 2) - Third-year junior rewrote the Tigers' record book. "Real natural receiver," one scout said. "Great ball skills. Natural route runner. Competes in a crowd. Got size, got quickness. He makes himself easy to throw to. He can make plays with the ball. Not the best tester in the world." Finished with 206 catches for 3,020 yards (14.7) and 27 TDs. "Possession guy all the way," another scout said. "But he's got damn good hands, he's big and he's a great kid." Concentrated on basketball in high school, even playing seven games for Clemson in 2010-'11 season. From Central, S.C. "I'm not entirely sold on his hands," a third scout said. "Pretty good route runner. Not a speed burner. Not special." 6. JUSTIN HUNTER, Tennessee (6-4, 198, 4.40, 2) - Third-year junior. "Probably the most physically gifted of any of the receivers," one scout said. "You go back and look at sophomore film, he's special. Long arms. Lean body. Ripped up. He's really got good hands, too, but didn't show it as well this year." Blew out an ACL in Game 3 of 2011 and wasn't as good in '12. "From a skill set, he's probably the No. 1 (WR)," another scout said. "He just drops the ball a little bit too much. At the end of the day, Hunter could be the best receiver in that class if he can put it all together." Finished with 106 catches for 1,812 yards (17.1) and 18 TDs. "He short-arms balls in traffic at times," a third scout said. "Straight-line speed. Long strider. I question his strength and aggressiveness as a receiver and blocker. He appears to have deep speed but he wasn't explosive." Out of Virginia Beach, Va. Exceptional vertical jump (40 ½ inches) and broad jump (11-6). 7. TERRANCE WILLIAMS, Baylor (6-2, 207, 4.50, 2-3) - Spent five years in Waco, redshirting in 2008 and starting his final three seasons. "Coming out of that offense all those guys are behind because they haven't run a lot of different routes," one scout said. "Really strong. His 40 isn't as great as some other guys' but they talk about carrying your pads. That's him. Guys put their hands on him and he's still running as fast. He's just really raw." Caught 201 passes for 3,294 yards (16.4) and 27 TDs. "I don't like him as much as the guy from there last year (Kendall Wright)," said another scout. "He's a deep threat outside the numbers." Calls Dallas home. 8. QUINTON PATTON, Louisiana Tech (6-0, 202, 4.49, 2-3) - Ex-junior college player with whopping production in two seasons for Bulldogs. "Real good player," one scout said. "He's tough, competitive, productive and knows how to play." Two-year numbers were 183 receptions for 2,594 yards (14.2) and 24 TDs. "There's a lot more to him than just being a spread receiver that caught 100-plus passes," another scout said. "He's got the balance and the run-after-catch ability. Good strength. And he's competitive." Carries himself with a swagger. Out of La Vergne, Tenn. 9. STEDMAN BAILEY, West Virginia (5-10, 196, 4.53, 3) - Played in the shadows of Austin and surprised some scouts by declaring as a fourth-year junior. "He's a very smooth, fluid guy," one scout said. "Good sure-handed receiver. I thought he would run better and elevate himself into at least a top second-round pick. Good kid." Finished with 210 receptions for 3,218 yards (15.3) and 41 TDs. Long arms (32 ¾) and large hands (9 7/8). "He's a little stiff and not a real tough guy and not true speed," another scout said. "But he's not a bad player." From Miami. 10. DA'RICK ROGERS, Tennessee Tech (6-2 ½, 219, 4.53, 3) - Dismissed by coach Derek Dooley eight days before the first game for repeated violations of the school's substance-abuse policy. At least one team has removed him from its board. "Talent-wise, he is a first-round pick," one scout said. "Complete disaster off the field." Rated as Volunteers' No. 1 WR in 2011. Enrolled almost immediately at Tennessee Tech and started 11 games last fall. The combined stats for the third-year junior were 139 catches for 2,100 yards (15.1) and 21 TDs. "He's got some Brandon Marshall in him," another scout said. "He's got some self-entitlement, some things that kept Brandon from being drafted high. He is a very good football player." Out of Calhoun, Tenn. 11. MARKUS WHEATON, Oregon State (5-11, 187, 4.43, 3) - Set the Beavers' school record with 227 catches. "He has a chance to be a really solid No. 2," said Phil Savage, the Senior Bowl executive director and former personnel man for Cleveland and Baltimore. "He's got the innate body quickness and good hands, and there's not a drop-off from his 40 time to his play speed." Finished with 2,994 yards (13.2) and 16 TDs. "Good pattern runner," another scout said. "Good after the catch." From Chandler, Ariz. 12. CHRIS HARPER, Kansas State (6-0 ½, 232, 4.50, 3-4) - Spent the first five games of his true freshman year at Oregon playing QB before transferring to be closer to home (Wichita, Kan.). Moved into the lineup in 2010. "More a physical than an explosive player," one scout said. "Most catches are in traffic. Does not play as fast as his 40 time. Good in the red zone. He's not a quick guy." Finished with 123 catches for 1,734 yards (14.1) and 12 TDs. "He's kind of different," one scout said, comparing his build and style of play somewhat to Sterling Sharpe. "Some people think he might end up being a tight end. He's got ability." Paced the top WRs on the Wonderlic intelligence test with 33. OTHERS: Aaron Dobson, Marshall; Marquise Goodwin, Texas; Ace Sanders, South Carolina; Josh Boyce, Texas Christian; Ryan Swope, Texas A&M; Corey Fuller, Virginia Tech; Aaron Mellette, Elon; Marcus Davis, Virginia Tech; Tavarres King, Georgia; Kenny Stills, Oklahoma; Marquess Wilson, Washington State; Denard Robinson, Michigan; T.J. Moe, Missouri; Rodney Smith, Florida State; Ryan Spadola, Lehigh; Cobi Hamilton, Arkansas. TIGHT ENDS 1. TYLER EIFERT, Notre Dame (6-5 ½, 256, 4.67, 1) - Replaced Kyle Rudolph as the starter in 2011. "He's a quasi-wide receiver," one scout said. "Very (acrobatic). He's the most predictable of all the wide receivers and tight ends." Scouts really struggle to find a hole in his game. "He reminds me a little of when (Todd) Heap came out," another scout said. "He's an easy guy to grade. If he was another position he'd probably be more highly regarded. He'll go somewhere between 18 and 32 and will be a very, very good player." Caught 140 passes for 1,840 yards (13.1) and 11 TDs. Lightly recruited out of Fort Wayne, Ind. "Jason Witten was a crappy blocker when he came out as a junior but he learned how to position," a third scout said. "That's what I think Eifert will be." Wonderlic of 23. 2. ZACH ERTZ, Stanford (6-5, 245, 4.70, 1-2) - Fourth-year junior and 1 ½-year starter. "He really runs good routes," one scout said. "He knows how to get open, which makes a big difference." Finished with 112 catches for 1,434 yards (12.8) and 15 TDs. "Now he's strictly a receiver," another scout said. "He's not even their base tight end. He lines up in the slot or split. I don't think he'll ever become a good blocker because he doesn't have that lower-body power. He's really smooth and runs well." From Alamo, Calif. "He's Stanford, smart (Wonderlic of 26) and all that, but I think he's just a middle-of-the-road talent," said a third scout. "Good underneath possession guy. I don't think he's a playmaker and he's not a blocker." 3. GAVIN ESCOBAR, San Diego State (6-6, 250, 4.80, 2) - Fourth-year junior plays faster than he timed, according to several personnel people. "He ran better at pro day than at the combine, but it doesn't matter," one scout said. "He can really catch. He's what people are doing now. But he doesn't block at all." Three-year starter with 122 catches for 1,646 yards (13.5) and 17 TDs. Bench-pressed 225 pounds just 12 times, far below Ertz's 24 and Eifert's 22. "He's not a blocker. They don't even use him as a blocker there," another scout said. "They've got two other guys they use. As a pass catcher, he's not a nifty, athletic guy. Kind of a big target who runs on a straight line down the field." Scored 28 on the Wonderlic. Out of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. "Appears to be a taller Aaron Hernandez," a third scout said. "I had him in 4.84, but he sure plays faster than that." 4. TRAVIS KELCE, Cincinnati (6-5, 257, 4.63, 2-3) - A big, fast, conventional TE. "He's very athletic," one scout said. "Very big. Can catch and block. He's a complete tight end." Worked extensively as a wildcat QB in 2009 (eight carries, 47 yards, two TDs) before being suspended for the entire '10 season. "I wouldn't touch that guy," another scout said. "He's a smart (expletive) and a dumb (expletive). He's got ability, but I wouldn't fool with him." Finished with 59 catches for 875 yards (14.8) and 10 TDs. Regarded as one of the two or three best blocking TEs. From Cleveland Heights, Ohio. His brother, Jason, started at center for the Eagles in '11. "He's a talent," Savage said. "If he hadn't gotten the sports hernia (surgery Jan. 20) there was a chance he may have passed Eifert up as the first tight end off the board. He can block, he can catch and he's fast enough to get up the seam. He will get drafted a little bit later than he probably should and probably end up being a really good player." Wonderlic of 22. 5. VANCE McDONALD, Rice (6-4, 267, 4.66, 3) - Three-year starter with 119 catches for 1,504 yards (12.6) and 15 TDs. "Maybe not the first year but eventually he will (start)," one scout said. "He's 260 pounds, can run and is smart. I like the traits, you know?" Led TEs in the Wonderlic (30) and on the bench press (31 reps). Has long arms (34 3/8). "His hands are questionable," another scout said. "He's got a good body and a good frame." From Winnie, Texas. 6. JORDAN REED, Florida (6-2 ½, 235, 4.71, 3-4) - Fourth-year junior threw 46 passes as a QB in 2010 before moving to TE in '11. "He's a great athlete," one scout said. "He doesn't know how to bend his knees and block. Doesn't understand leverage. The closest comparison is Dustin Keller of the Jets. He's got great hands." Operating mostly away from the formation, he caught 79 passes for 945 yards (12.0) and six TDs. "He's like Hernandez," another scout said. "He's really not a tight end." From New London, Conn. Ran a disappointing 40. Could struggle to grasp a complex offense. 7. DION SIMS, Michigan State (6-5, 262, 4.74, 4) - Might be the best blocker at the position by default. "Of all those guys, he might have the best potential to be a blocker," one scout said. "But he's so damn inconsistent it's unbelievable." Fourth-year junior redshirted in 2010 after being suspended for his involvement in computer theft. "If he was an All-American boy I wouldn't have any problem with him in the third round," another scout said. "Underachiever. He's got talent. He could block better. He certainly can catch short underneath. Not a bad athlete." Highly-rated prep basketball and football player at Orchard Lake St. Mary's (Mich.). Finished with 59 catches for 707 yards (12.0) and eight TDs. 8. LEVINE TOILOLO, Stanford (6-8, 259, 4.82, 4-5) - Fourth-year junior with 50 catches for 763 yards (15.3) and 10 TDs. "He's probably the best blocker," one scout said. "Just because of his size he can get on people and block them. He's just not very fast. Underneath he can catch it." Three uncles have played in the NFL. From La Mesa, Calif. "I mean, he made some really circus catches," another scout said. "Not a good blocker. No leg drive." OTHERS: Chris Gragg, Arkansas; Nick Kasa, Colorado; Matt Furstenburg, Maryland; Mychal Rivera, Tennessee; Ryan Otten, San Jose State; Jake Stoneburner, Ohio State; Michael Williams, Alabama; Justice Cunningham, South Carolina; Kyler Reed, Nebraska; MarQueis Gray, Minnesota; Demetrius Harris, UW-Milwaukee; Jack Doyle, Western Kentucky; D.C. Jefferson, Rutgers.
Ranking Top 5 Wide Receivers in N.F.L. Draft By MATT WALDMAN April 25, 2013, 5:59 am 1) Cordarelle Patterson, 6 feet 2 inches, 216 pounds, Tennessee There are receivers with more technique and consistency, but Patterson demonstrates he’s on his way toward acquiring the fundamentals. He has some drops and route issues, but nothing that can’t be fixed. Combine that with his jaw-dropping open-field talent and he’s the most promising skill player in the draft. 2) Keenan Allen, 6-2, 206, California Patterson is bigger and more explosive, but Allen is more technically sound and has less downside when it comes to learning curve. I actually feel bad that I’m ranking Allen No. 2 because in any other class the talk would be about how great Allen is in the open field and about his big-play potential. 3) Markus Wheaton, 5-11, 189, Oregon State Wheaton is one of the best receivers versus press coverage that I have seen this year, and he was the most proficient technician I saw at the Senior Bowl. Combine that with excellent speed and quickness, and a strong deep ball game in tight coverage, and he’s where Ryan Broyles would have been before his first injury. 4) Tavon Austin, 5-8, 174, West Virginia Austin could be the most productive of the top tier guys or the least. There’s no doubt he’s a dynamic player, and if he’s used appropriately, his game-breaking skill could make him a versatile star who can work from three spots in an offense. However, I think he’s the most scheme-dependent of the top receivers. Patterson and Allen fit any scheme, and Wheaton is a better technician with more vertical skill. Since I’m projecting talent for a broad base of possibilities, I can’t rank him any higher. 5) DeAndre Hopkins, 6-1, 214, Clemson There was a time I thought Hopkins might be the best receiver in this class. He’s a fine route runner with excellent hands. He’s probably the best receiver at winning the ball in tight coverage. He’s also the least explosive of the top five. I think he’s fast enough to be a primary option, and with the right quarterback he could have the best career. It’s that tight at the top of this board.
2013 NFL Draft Position Review: Wide Receivers By Charlie Campbell. This page was last updated April 21, 2013. Position Review: Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Class Early-round talent: B Mid-round: A- Late-round: C+ Overall grade: B 2012 prospects vs 2013 Justin Blackmon > Cordarrelle Patterson Michael Floyd > Tavon Austin Kendall Wright > DeAndre Hopkins A.J. Jenkins < Justin Hunter Brian Quick < Keenan Allen Stephen Hill > Robert Woods Alshon Jeffery > Quinton Patton Ryan Broyles > Terrance Williams Overall, the 2013 NFL Draft's group of wide receivers is not as good as last year's class. Nine wide outs went in the first two rounds in the 2012 NFL Draft, and this year's group may not hit that number. Five receivers went in the first 33 picks of the 2012 NFL Draft. Right now, less than week before the 2013 NFL Draft, only four receivers are projected to be first-rounders with the possibility of a fifth receiver being taken. That being said, this year's receiver class has quality, depth and parity on the second day of the 2013 NFL Draft. If the two classes were merged, Patterson and Austin would go behind Wright but ahead of Jenkins. Blackmon, Floyd and Wright were better prospects than either Patterson or Austin. Jenkins is at the point where things get interesting. Hunter, Allen and Woods are better prospects than Jenkins, but Allen and Woods could slip to the second round. Jenkins was a surprise late first-rounder in the 2012 NFL Draft, but did nothing as a rookie to justify that lofty draft slot. He looked like a reach at the time and confirmed that in his first year. Allen and Woods would go ahead of Jenkins in a merged group. There is a drop off after Woods. Patton and Williams would go behind Broyles. There are a few other second-day wide outs and mid-rounders who could turn into good players. That group includes Texas A&M's Ryan Swope, Tennessee Tech's Da'Rick Rogers, West Virginia's Stedman Bailey and Oregon State's Markus Wheaton. Other potential third-day picks to watch include Elon's Aaron Mellette, South Carolina's Ace Sanders, Oklahoma's Kenny Stills and Washington State's Marquess Wilson. Safest Pick: DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson Hopkins is the most polished and well-rounded receiver in the 2013 NFL Draft. He has decent size, speed, quickness, route-running and hands. Hopkins totaled 1,405 yards on 82 catches and 18 touchdowns this season, scoring in 12 of 13 games. He dominated LSU to lead Clemson to a last-minute comeback bowl win. Hopkins may never be a lead No. 1 receiver in the NFL, but he should turn into a solid starter and contributor. Biggest Bust Potential: Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee There is not doubt that Patterson has a rare combination of size and speed. However there are concerns about him translating to the NFL on and off the field. Some teams are concerned about his off the field activities and work ethic. They also have some concerns about his ability to pick up the NFL game. Patterson is very raw having played only one season of big-time college football. He drops too many passes, and his route-running needs a lot of improvement. Patterson is an intriguing prospect, but his lack of polish could lead him to being a bust if he doesn't work hard to improve his game. Wide Receiver Rankings by Attributes Separation: NFL prototype: Calvin Johnson, Lions Cordarrelle Patterson Tavon Austin Keenan Allen DeAndre Hopkins Justin Hunter Robert Woods Terrance Williams Quinton Patton Hands: NFL prototype: Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals Terrance Williams DeAndre Hopkins Keenan Allen Quinton Patton Tavon Austin Robert Woods Justin Hunter Cordarrelle Patterson Deep Speed: NFL prototype: Mike Wallace, Steelers Tavon Austin Cordarrelle Patterson Justin Hunter DeAndre Hopkins Robert Woods Keenan Allen Terrance Williams Quinton Patton Route-Running: NFL prototype: Reggie Wayne, Colts Keenan Allen DeAndre Hopkins Tavon Austin Quinton Patton Terrance Williams Justin Hunter Robert Woods Cordarrelle Patterson Yards After the Catch: NFL prototype: Julio Jones, Falcons Cordarrelle Patterson Tavon Austin Keenan Allen Terrance Williams DeAndre Hopkins Justin Hunter Robert Woods Quinton Patton Red Zone: NFL prototype: Calvin Johnson, Lions DeAndre Hopkins Cordarrelle Patterson Justin Hunter Robert Woods Quinton Patton Terrance Williams Keenan Allen Tavon Austin Contested Catches: NFL prototype: A.J. Green, Bengals Keenan Allen Cordarrelle Patterson Justin Hunter DeAndre Hopkins Terrance Williams Quinton Patton Robert Woods Tavon Austin Blocking: NFL prototype: Reggie Wayne, Colts Keenan Allen Justin Hunter Quinton Patton Terrance Williams Robert Woods DeAndre Hopkins Cordarrelle Patterson Tavon Austin
I know, right? Just look at they way Andre Johnson has wasted away while Scahub was busy throwing -3 yard outs to the fullback.... This team has NO IDEA how to maximize a talented WR.
2013 NFL DRAFT PROSPECT COMPARISONS: WIDE RECEIVERS Comparing NFL Draft receivers to pro counterparts is generally very difficult for multiple reasons. For one, a player could be morphed drastically by the offensive system he develops into. Two, football IQ and ability to adapt to the NFL-level of separation is a major factor in receiver development. Keenan Allen, California – Anquan Boldin/Dez Bryant One of the more physically gifted receivers in this class in terms of gaining separation as he works downfield, Keenan Allen is able to extend away from his frame and finish both in the slot and on the outside. Reminding of Dez Bryant with his ability to win vertically and Anquan Boldin with his willingness to remain physical in the short area after the catch, if he can be the best of both receivers, he’ll end up as one of the NFL’s best. Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech – Greg Jennings Quinton Patton’s ability as a receiver brings one word to mind: decisiveness. He’s efficient in his routes, works upfield quickly and without hesitation as a runner, and has a high football IQ to attack defenses on the edge. His timing on his routes, extension away from his body, and ability to set up opposing cornerbacks reminds very much of Greg Jennings, with Patton having a better NFL build. Cordarelle Patterson, Tennessee – Percy Harvin/Michael Crabtree While still raw in his route development and receiver IQ (similar to Michael Crabtree out of college), Patterson offers explosive ability both in getting vertical as well as (and especially) after the catch. However, his big play ability and high upside as a receiver is what made Harvin and Crabtree such high picks. Robert Woods, USC – Reggie Wayne Finding receivers with the athletic upside to be feature receivers yet the patience and route development in the mid-to-deep routes isn’t an easy task, and it’s a role Reggie Wayne has relished in throughout his career. Robert Woods wasn’t given a chance to showcase his downfield ability and athleticism as a vertical receiver this year, but he should early in his NFL career. DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson – Antonio Brown Playing opposite Sammy Watkins in 2011 somewhat overshadowed what DeAndre Hopkins can offer. But Hopkins plays extremely well away from his body, finishes catches in ideal run-after-catch position, and flashes big play ability when defenses give him too much vertical cushion. If he can have a similar career to Antonio Brown (and he has better size), he’s well-worth a mid-late 20s overall selection. Tavon Austin, West Virginia – Randall Cobb/Dexter McCluster A playmaker that is one of the more unique position players in recent years, finding even two prospects that can show what Tavon Austin can become in the NFL. Combining the versatility at receiver and as a returner in Randall Cobb along with the unique running back ability that Dexter McCluster has shown seems to do his NFL role justice. However, he’s quicker than both players, yet doesn’t have the size of Randall Cobb. Stedman Bailey, West Virginia – Victor Cruz Overshadowed as a receiver prospect with Tavon Austin getting the national headlines, Bailey is a far more polished and NFL receiver, one that can utilize option routes and work vertically at a high level. Bailey’s ability to work in the slot and the edge, and to adjust off his initial route is very similar to what has allowed Victor Cruz success. Da’Rick Rogers, Tennessee Tech – Terrell Owens (young version) One of the more straightforward comparison, Rogers could have similar NFL success as well as give NFL coaches headaches just as much. His ability to win with physicality in the short area and as he works downfield reminds of Owens, and he has more upside as a vertical receiver.
Keenan Allen it is then. Seriously though, it sounds like he has a lot of what the Texans are looking for.
Ranking the Top 2013 NFL Draft Wide Receiver Prospects BY TYLER PICCOTTION NOVEMBER 29, 2012 No. 1: Keenan Allen, California Keenan Allen has been overshadowed by the star USC duo of Lee and Woods. Assuming he declares for the 2013 NFL Draft, however, he will be one of the first players selected. I have him ranked higher than Woods for a couple of reasons. The first reason is his size. At 6'3" and around 210 pounds, Allen is capable of reaching over defenders to snag passes. Even with his big frame, he also possesses great body control. Furthermore, he has show the explosiveness to gain substantial yardage after catching the ball. Adding all of those traits up makes Allen the best prospect in my book. Although his current knee injury worries me a bit, it does not sound like a very serious problem. Once he is healthy again, Allen should be considered the best wideout available if he does declare. No. 2: Robert Woods, USC Robert Woods is the thunder to Marqise Lee's lightning. The junior wideout could make an immediate impact in the NFL, should he forgo his senior season. At 6'1", his size is average for a wide receiver. However, he is very athletic. His speed is explosive, which allows him to get open and make plays. He is also a good route-runner. All of these characteristics have made him a big weapon for Matt Barkley and the Trojans. Last year, he caught 112 passes and scored 15 touchdowns. Even though Lee has been absolutely dominant this season, Woods has still managed to catch 11 touchdown passes. His production is undeniable. He does have a problem dropping passes, but overall Woods' skills are translatable to the NFL game. That's why I believe he will be one of the top options if he enters the draft. No. 3: Tavon Austin, West Virginia West Virginia's season seemingly tanked in an instant. Tavon Austin's draft stock, however, remains at a high level. With future NFL quarterback Geno Smith at the helm of the Mountaineer offense, Austin has snagged 106 passes and scored 12 touchdowns this season. Perhaps even more impressive is his success as a runner. After being moved to running back, Austin exploded for 344 rushing yards against Oklahoma. Overall, he has accounted for 1,670 offensive yards. Austin's best asset is his speed. He doesn't need to be elusive because he can outrun most. He also has great vision, which is evidenced by his success in the return game. He boasts great acceleration as well. His size poses an issue. At only 5'9", he's not going to have a reach advantage against NFL secondaries. He's fast, but he needs to be on a team that will go out of its way to play him in spots where he's most effective. This has been in the slot and on screen passes. However, don't let his limitations fool you. If Austin can find the right fit, he could be a dangerous offensive weapon. No. 4: Terrance Williams, Baylor After seeing teammate Kendall Wright get drafted by the Titans last season, Terrance Williams has had a breakthrough campaign. There is a great possibility that he could also go in the first round of the draft. It doesn't get any better than 1,693 receiving yards. Seriously, that's tops in the FBS. This includes a 314-yard performance against West Virginia. Of course, having Nick Florence throwing the football has been a big help. As for Williams, he has good tools. He shows great speed along the sidelines. Also, his long frame and stride help him to fight off defenders down the field. He doesn't necessarily run the prettiest of routes, but he is able to gain substantial yardage after a catch. You can always count on him to produce, even against a tough opponent. As is the case with everyone else on this list, Williams has room to improve. Still, he looks like he has the capability to become an NFL star. No. 5: DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd has had an unbelievable 2012 season. One of the main reasons why is his stud receiver, DeAndre Hopkins. This year, Hopkins has hauled in 16 touchdowns and averaged almost 18 yards per catch. His hand-eye coordination is outstanding. He has repeatedly made tough catches that others may shy away from. He has decent speed that he knows how to use to his advantage. One knock on Hopkins is his route running. While it is not terrible, it can be improved upon. One could also argue that he has faced below-average competition in the ACC and is not battle-tested. I'm not saying the conference is bad, but it's not on the level of the SEC and Pac-12. Overall, however, Hopkins is a talented receiver. He will be taken off the board early in the draft if he chooses to enter it after the season. No. 6: Justin Hunter, Tennessee While Patterson may be a more dynamic player overall, teammate Justin Hunter looks to be more talented at the wide receiver position. At 6'4", Hunter is an imposing target down the field. His speed is solid, making him a big threat after the catch. He is also a great route-runner. He has quick feet and good acceleration, which help him in that department. One could argue that he deserves to be higher on this list, but he did tear his ACL last season. Although he has looked fine this season, a team can never be completely sure that Hunter has fully recovered or can stay free of the injury bug. Overall, though, Hunter's production has been great this season. He could be a solid second-round choice come April. No. 7: Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee Cordarrelle Patterson plays for an often-maligned Tennessee offense. However, he has turned into a solid all-around threat for the Vols. His 778 receiving yards are by no means "eye-popping," and the same goes for his eight offensive touchdowns. However, his effectiveness out of the backfield could make him a valuable asset to an NFL squad. If that doesn't, then his return skills should. Patterson has scored touchdowns four different ways this season. In addition, he leads the SEC in all-purpose yards per game. While his receiving skills alone don't necessarily merit a high draft choice, his diverse talents make him an intriguing prospect. He is only a junior and could return to Knoxville. If he does, he could easily improve upon his performance this year. Even now, though, he is one to watch. No. 8: Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech Because he plays at Louisiana Tech, Quinton Patton hasn't gotten much national attention. However, his production merits definite attention as a prospect to watch. His breakout game was Tech's October matchup against Texas A&M. He caught 21 passes for 233 yards and four of them were for touchdowns. That game was a showcase of his skills down the field. He is good against opposing coverage downfield and uses his strength to his advantage. He's not the fastest at his position, but his acceleration makes him a big threat. Overall, he's a great target. Granted, much of his production came against less-than-stellar opponents. Still, it's hard to argue with almost 1,400 yards. Keep an eye on Patton on draft day.
Allen is also a great route runner and has great hands. Adding in the blocking, this is the type of receiver Kubiak really likes. Quinton Patton has a similar profile.
The guy to aim for is Cordarrelle Patterson. I doubt he will be available where the Texans are picking though so I'm hoping they can find a way to move up. I think Tavon Austin goes before 15, possibly top 10. I think the other guy is DeAndre Hopkins, but I also don't know if he'll be there. Getting Patterson at 26 would be an absolute steal though. I wouldn't mind Keenan Allen either.
2013 NFL Draft - Wide Receivers By Pete Fiutak CollegeFootballNews.com Posted Apr 23, 2013 This Class Is … big on potential, short on sure things. Wide receiver is always a roll of the dice, but this year it’s extremely difficult to project who can really play and become a difference maker. Four receivers were taken in the first round last season — nine in the first two rounds — and few actually showed up and did anything on Sundays. There wasn’t an A.J. Green or Julio Jones like in 2011, and there won’t be any this year, either. The Tennessee targets will dominate the spotlight, with Cordarrelle Paterson and Justin Hunter fighting it out with Cal’s Keenan Allen to see who could be the No. 1 receiver taken, while former Vol Da’Rick Rogers might have the best tools and talents of any wideout in the draft, but he could slide because of off-the-field issues. Overall, the class has several players who look the part and could bust out, but don’t be shocked if this is a bit like 2008 when no receivers were taken in the first round and Donnie Avery and Devin Thomas joined James Hardy and Eddie Royal in the group of second-round picks who went ahead of DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon (who went in the sixth round). Things are so uncertain, the guy who many have going first among the receivers, Tavon Austin of West Virginia, is No. 7 in our WR rankings. Let’s sort this all out. The Best Value Pick Will Be … Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech Most Underrated … Tavarres King, Georgia Most Overrated … Stedman Bailey, West Virginia The Deep, Deep Sleeper Is … Deven Baker, Central Connecticut State 1. Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee (Jr.) 6-2, 216 Very big, very fast, and very quick for his size. He has No. 1 wide receiver tools and is the one guy in the draft who looks like the next big thing. Absolutely effortless, he looks like he’s running in slow motion as he’s using his 4.4 speed to come up with dangerous plays in the open field. Creative and devastating on the move, he’s able to break his man down and get positive yards, especially as a punt returner. He’ll have no problems helping out his quarterback by taking away the 50/50 chances from the defensive back, and he’ll always be around the ball. There’s some tweaking to be done, though. He needs to become a sharper, more consistent route runner, and he needs to prove that he can get the job done for more than one year after coming up from the JUCO ranks, but there won’t be a lot of patience. The upside is there to eventually become a perennial Pro Bowl performer, but he needs to dive into an NFL playbook — hard — and do all the little things right. Even so, as is he’s already going to be one of the most productive targets at the next level, but the sky’s the limit with the right coaching and effort. CFN Projection: First round 2. DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson (Jr.) 6-1, 214 Everyone came to see Sammy Watkins in 2012, but it was Hopkins who stole the show, highlighted by a scintillating performance in the win over LSU in the Chick-fil-A Bowl, catching 13 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns. The 4.5 speed is fine, but nothing special, but he’s a strong route runner and is tough as nails when he has to go across the middle. As good as he was, there’s still plenty of upside and potential as he’s just scratching the surface. Coaches will love him because he can block, and quarterbacks will adore him because he’ll catch anything thrown his way. He looks and plays like a No. 1 receiver, but he’s not; he needs a good, dangerous receiver on the other side to help take the attention away. He’ll do all the grunt work needed to make a play. CFN Projection: Second round 3. Keenan Allen, California (Jr.) 6-2, 206 It would be nice if he was a little bit faster, but Allen’s fast on the field and moves effortlessly with easy cutting ability and good straight-line speed when the ball is in the air. A fighter, he’ll go after a ball and isn’t afraid to shove someone around to make a play. The raw speed isn’t there to take the top off a defense, and he might turn into more of a possession target if he can’t stay healthy — there were leg problems at the end of last season — but there’s still a lot to get excited about. If he can regain his sophomore year production and upside, and if he can get past knee and ankle injuries, he’ll be a sure thing in the slot. CFN Projection: Second round 4. Justin Hunter, Tennessee (Jr.) 6-4, 196 If you’re building a wide receiver, what are you looking for? Really tall and built — check. 4.4 speed — check. NBA small forward athleticism — check. Great hands and a great work ethic — check. With rare tools, Hunter has the look and talent to be a go-to, Pro Bowl, No.1-caliber receiver who can carry an offense. So what’s the problem? Consistency is one issue, getting slowed down by top defenses with only six of his 18 career touchdowns coming against SEC teams. The bigger problem is his knee after suffering a torn ACL a year-and-a-half ago. He came back just fine, but it’s always going to be a bit of a concern considering his athleticism. There’s still lots of work to do on his route-running ability and he needs to add more weight, but he’s a dangerous talent with unlimited potential. CFN Projection: Second round 5. Terrance Williams, Baylor 6-2, 208 Last season he showed what several had been suggesting — he was the best receiver on the team over the last few years. Kendall Wright might have been the main man for RG3, but when the second pick in the 2012 NFL Draft was gone, it was Williams who stepped up his game, averaging a whopping 18.9 yards per catch making huge play after huge play. He doesn’t have great timed speed, but when he has to track the ball and when he has it in his hands on the move, he’s gone. While he’ll work hard and do anything a coach asks, he needs the killer instinct to be able to make himself something truly special. The workouts are never going to be great and he’s not going to stand out on a scout sheet, but he’s a top producer who can grow from a great deep threat into a strong all-around playmaker with a little bit of time and more work on his route tree. CFN Projection: Second round 6. Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech 6-0, 204 The numbers might have been inflated in the Louisiana Tech pass-happy offense, but he deserves plenty of credit for them. The 4.5 speed isn’t great and he’s not huge and bulky, but he’ll be a reliable possession target who’ll make the midrange play time and again. There won’t be anything flashy about his play, but he’ll catch pass after pass. A key leader for a great offense, he has great character and is extremely coachable as the type of guy you want to be a part of your team. A great route runner, there’s no wasted motion in getting open. The hands aren’t fantastic and he’s not explosive, but he’ll be a sure-thing, bread-and-butter short-range receiver who’ll put up big pass catch numbers. He’ll be a quarterback’s best friend. CFN Projection: Second round 7. Tavon Austin, West Virginia 5-8, 174 4.34. His 40 time wasn’t the fastest at the NFL Scouting Combine, but he was moving in a hurry. A darting speedster, he’s great with the ball in his hands in a variety of ways, used as a running back as well as a receiver and using his burst of speed to make things happen whenever he got his chances. Uncoverable as a slot receiver, he’ll be devastating when he gets the ball on the move with the ability to break down and blow past a defender. He’ll never block anyone and he’s going to get crushed when he goes across the middle, but he’s a true difference maker who’ll keep defensive coordinators up at night. CFN Projection: First round 8. Robert Woods, USC (Jr.) 6-0, 201 While he might not be huge and he might not have blazing speed, he’s a great pure receiver lighting up top competition and coming through with big plays time and again. Ready right out of the box, get him on the field and he’ll be ready to roll in Week 1. He moves effortlessly and is able to gear up instantly and cut without a problem, and he’s not afraid of or shy about getting hit or getting physical when needed. He’s not going to block anyone and he’s not bulky enough to be a true No. 1, but he’s a pure NFL target who can be an extremely productive producer for a long time with the right offense. He can be a devastating No. 2 who can lead the team in receiving every once in a while. CFN Projection: Second round 9. Da’Rick Rogers, Tennessee Tech (Jr.) 6-2, 217 With excellent size, 4.5 speed and great strength, the ability is undeniable. Athletic and quick for his size, he moves without effort and is dangerous when he gets on the move. When he wants a ball, he’ll beat up his man to go grab it and make the play. Fluid, there’s almost no effort to get in and out of his breaks and there’s jaw-dropping leaping ability when the ball is in the air. Now he has to harness the talent to become a top football player. He doesn’t have Randy Moss-like otherworldly skills to negate his off-the-field knucklehead streak, and he’s not a true blazer; but there’s enough talent and upside to get a top-50 talent in the middle rounds. CFN Projection: Fourth round 10. Stedman Bailey, West Virginia (Jr.) 5-10, 193 Yes, he was a product of a funky passing offense and he was able to put up huge numbers because of the scheme, but hey, West Virginia does a lot of the same things that New England and New Orleans do. With the hands, the route-running ability and the knack for always getting open, he’s able to produce in any offense and will find ways to make things happen. He’s not a speedster, but he’s functionally fast in and out of his breaks and is great at always working to find the seam. The size isn’t there and he’s not physical in any way — he’s missing the raw tools — but he’s a better football player than a prospect. It helped to have Geno Smith throwing him the ball, but he made No. 12 look good, too. CFN Projection: Second round
I'm intrigued by Da'Rick Rodgers, he's possibly the best receiver of the 3 former Tennessee University players coming out this year (other 2 being projected late first early second) and he may last all the way thru the 3rd round and into the 4th because of off field issues. If any time wouldn't be better, it's now, to take a chance on a low character high potential guy like this. We've got SB contendership still under our belt and some extremely high character veterans that are currently our stars in the mix (AJ, Watt, Ed Reed). We should definitely take a chance on this guy if he were to fall all the way down to the 4th because it's really low risk high reward type of move. I also wouldn't be surprised if we took Eifert were he to fall all the way down to 27. That guy has Rob Gronkowski written all over him.
I'd be thrilled if they drafted Terrance Williams. He's tall..he's fast...he stretches the field...he makes plays after the catch.
We'll have an Avengers front with Hunt and Watt. Just imagine Thor and Captain America dominating the line of scrimmage for the Texans.
Ted Ginn says hi to all the Tavon Austin lovers... explain to me why they aren't the same player and why they won't have simlar impacts in the NFL.
Sooo many WR's, none of which separate themselves in consensus opinions. That's why I think you could take one in the 3rd and a sleeper 5th and have just a good a chance of hitting on a TY Hilton than taking 1 in the first. The Datone Jones to replace Smith next year would be a repeat of the Mercilus/Barwin strategy from last year. So that's a pretty astute guess. But I just know, we are going to wait 3 hours just to hear the Texans are trading down. We are in the sweet spot for someone to jump up for Barkley, Nassib, Smith or Manuel. And, we really need to hit on 5 players who can make the team (WR, OL, OLB, ILB, NT) and maybe 8 (S, TE/HB, RB). So extra 2's 3's and 4's are very important.
