JFLO
05-24-2010, 02:47 PM
I've been debating on how I want to rank players for this upcoming draft class. I've debated on doing the Top 100 Prospects every three months or just doing a simple big board every month. I've decided on the latter and will be ranking the Top 40 Prospects of the 2011 Class for each month. I will also be ranking the Top 10 prospects by position each month.
Obviously players' performances on the field will dictate the movement that they have in the positional rankings and the big board.
So first, before revealing the 1st big board of the 2011 draft class season, I wanted to give some initial analysis and my perspective on the players who are eligible in April.
From an initial standpoint of both 2010 and 2011, I give the edge to 2011. At this point last year, I only had two elite players ranked in Tennessee S Eric Berry and Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy. At the end of the class, the most highly touted defensive player to enter the draft within the past 10-15 years also graded out as an Elite prospect in Nebraska's DT Ndamukong Suh.
However in 2011, I have three prospects ranked at the Elite grade from an initial standpoint. Led by Tar Heel DE Robert Quinn who has a very mature game for his age while still maintaining freakish athleticism to be a constant force around the edge. The #2 prospect in the land is Washington QB Jake Locker. Locker declined the possibility to be the #1 pick in 2010 in order to help the Huskies possibly reach a BCS game this season. Locker has the fantastic intangibles and mechanics as a possible franchise signal caller as well as a great arm strength and tremendous athleticism to be a threat outside the pocket. The last elite prospect and #3 in the class is Georgia Wide Receiver A.J. Green.
Then there are some players who, plain and simple, did not make the cut for the first Big Board. The most notable player being North Carolina DT Marvin Austin. Austin hasn't lived up to the high school hype that followed him to Chapel Hill and really hasn't proven to be the highly projected prospect that most perceived him to be during his tenure. He does show glimpses of promise but it seems that too often he finds himself shoved off the line of scrimmage, lost in the mess or he simply doesn't put forth the full effort to be a star caliber player.
Other players who did not make the cut would be Florida State signal caller Christian Ponder, Clemson redshirt sophomore Rashard Hall and North Carolina CB Kendric Burney. However, I feel that Burney will ultimately be a very hot commodity in April.
So without further adieu; The Big Board -- Month of May revealed, along with the Top 10 positional rankings.
***NOTE FOR UNDERCLASSMEN***
In order for an underclassmen to be ranked, they must be a Top 10 positional talent. I will only state this once and if you cry to me about why Janoris Jenkins or DeAndre Brown aren't listed, then I would like to criticize you in advance for not reading this. As the season moves on, I'll start to add more players to the rankings, but for now, it's only ten players per position.
Quarterback
1. Jake Locker - - Washington
2. Ryan Mallett - - Arkansas*
3. Andrew Luck - - Stanford**
4. Christian Ponder - - Florida State
5. Jerrod Johnson - - Texas A&M
6. Blaine Gabbert - - Missouri*
7. Pat Devlin - - Delaware
8. Nathan Enderle - - Idaho
9. Ricky Stanzi - - Iowa
10. Greg McElroy - - Alabama
Others to Watch
- Case Keenum - - Houston
- Tyrod Taylor - - Virginia Tech
- Mike Hartline - - Kentucky
Running Back
1. Mark Ingram - - Alabama*
2. Demarco Murray - - Oklahoma
3. Ryan Williams - - Virginia Tech**
4. Evan Royster - - Penn State
5. Daniel Thomas - - Kansas State
6. Noel Devine - - West Virginia
7. Allen Bradford - - Southern California
8. Jacquizz Rodgers - - Oregon State*
9. Brandon Saine - - Ohio State
10. Mario Fannin - - Auburn
Others to Watch
- Da'Rel Scott - - Maryland
- Damien Berry - - Miami (FL)
- Vondrell McGee - - Texas
Fullback
1. Owen Marecic - - Stanford
2. Stanley Havili - - Southern California
3. Shaun Chapas - - Georgia
4. D.J. Williams - - Arkansas
5. Charles Clay - - Tulsa
Wide Receiver
1. A.J. Green - - Georgia*
2. Jonathan Baldwin - - Pittsburgh*
3. Julio Jones - - Alabama*
4. Michael Floyd - - Notre Dame*
5. DeVier Posey - - Ohio State*
6. Greg Little - - North Carolina
7. Ryan Broyles - - Oklahoma*
8. Austin Pettis - - Boise State
9. Niles Paul - - Nebraska
10. Terrence Toliver - - Louisiana State
Others to Watch
- Armon Binns - - Cincinnati
- Aldrick Robinson - - Southern Methodist
- Marshall Williams - - Wake Forest
Tight End
1. Kyle Rudolph - - Notre Dame*
2. Luke Stocker - - Tennessee
3. George Bryan - - North Carolina State*
4. Lance Kendricks - - Wisconsin
5. Weslye Saunders - - South Carolina
6. Kavario Middleton - - Washington*
7. Konrad Reuland - - Stanford
8. Mike McNeill - - Nebraska
9. Blake Ayles - - Southern California*
10. Stephen Skelton - - Fordham
Others to Watch
- Greg Smith - - Texas
- Cameron Graham - - Louisville
- Brett Huffman - - Duke
Offensive Tackle
1. Matt Reynolds - - Brigham Young*
2. Anthony Castonzo - - Boston College
3. Gabe Carimi - - Wisconsin
4. Joseph Barksdale - - Louisiana State
5. Lee Ziemba - - Auburn
6. Clint Boling - - Georgia
7. Nate Solder - - Colorado
8. Nate Potter - - Boise State*
9. Derek Sherrod - - Mississippi State
10. Blake DeChristopher - - Virginia Tech*
Others to Watch
- Rob McGill - - Louisiana Tech
- Chris Hairston - - Clemson
- Marcus Cannon - - Texas Christian
Interior Lineman
1. Mike Pouncey - - Florida
2. Kristofer O’Dowd - - Southern California
3. Stefen Wisniewski - - Penn State
4. Justin Boren - - Ohio State
5. Rodney Hudson - - Florida State
6. Mike Brewster - - Ohio State*
7. James Wilson - - Florida*
8. Ben Ijalana - - Villanova
9. John Moffitt - - Wiconsin
10. Thomas Claiborne - - Boston College
Others to Watch
- Stephen Schilling - - Michigan
- Andrew Jackson - - Fresno State
- Joel Figueroa - - Miami (FL)
Defensive End
1. Robert Quinn - - North Carolina*
2. Cameron Heyward - - Ohio State
3. Jack Crawford - - Penn State*
4. Adrian Clayborn - - Iowa
5. Greg Romeus - - Pittsburgh
6. Sam Acho - - Texas
7. Cliff Matthews - - South Carolina
8. Jeremy Beal - - Oklahoma
9. Da’Quan Bowers - - Clemson*
10. Jabaal Sheard - - Pittsburgh
Others to Watch
- Pierre Allen - - Nebraska
- Tom Keiser - - Stanford
- Christian Anthony - - Grambling
Defensive Tackle
1. Marcel Dareus - - Alabama*
2. Jurrell Casey - - Southern California*
3. Allen Bailey - - Miami (FL)
4. Jerrell Powe - - Ole Miss
5. Stephen Paea - - Oregon State
6. Jared Crick - - Nebraska*
7. Marvin Austin - - North Carolina
8. Jarvis Jenkins - - Clemson
9. Kendrick Ellis - - Hampton
10. Lawrence Marsh - - Florida
Others to Watch
- Ricky Lumpkin - - Kentucky
- John Graves - - Virginia Tech
- Ladi Ajiboye - - South Carolina
Outside Linebacker
1. Akeem Ayers - - UCLA*
2. Von Miller - - Texas A&M
3. Nigel Bradham - - Florida State*
4. Travis Lewis - - Oklahoma*
5. Quan Sturdivant - - North Carolina
6. Bruce Carter - - North Carolina
7. Michael Morgan - - Southern California
8. Ross Homan - - Ohio State
9. Mark Herzlich - - Boston College
10. Adrian Robinson - - Temple*
Others to Watch
- Wayne Daniels - - Texas Christian
- Bruce Miller - - Central Florida
- K.J. Wright - - Mississippi State
Inside Linebacker
1. Greg Jones - - Michigan State
2. Dont’a Hightower - - Alabama*
3. Chris Galippo - - Southern California*
4. Colin McCarthy - - Miami (FL)
5. Mike Mohamed - - California
6. Josh Bynes - - Auburn
7. Kelvin Sheppard - - Louisiana State
8. Nate Irving - - North Carolina State
9. Alex Wujciak - - Maryland
10. Barquell Rivers - - Virginia Tech*
Others to Watch
- Casey Mathews - - Oregon
- Brian Rolle - - Ohio State
- Akeem Dent - - Georgia
Cornerback
1. Patrick Peterson - - Louisiana State*
2. Aaron Williams - - Texas*
3. Prince Amukamara - - Nebraska
4. Ras-I Dowling - - Virginia
5. Curtis Brown - - Texas
6. Kendric Burney - - North Carolina
7. Brandon Harris - - Miami (FL)*
8. Rashad Carmichael - - Virginia Tech
9. Davon House - - New Mexico State
10. Brandon Boykin - - Georgia*
Others to Watch
- Jason Teague - - Texas Christian
- Marcus Gilchrist - - Clemson
- Mario Butler - - Georgia Tech
Safety
1. Rahim Moore - - UCLA*
2. DeAndre McDaniel - - Clemson
3. Will Hill - - Florida*
4. Rashard Hall - - Clemson**
5. Mark Barron - - Alabama*
6. Deunta Williams - - North Carolina
7. Chris Culliver - - South Carolina
8. Karnell Hatcher - - Louisiana State*
9. Jaiquawn Jarrett - - Temple
10. Robert Sands - - West Virginia*
Others to Watch
- Quinton Carter - - Oklahoma
- Davonte Shannon - - Buffalo
- Zac Etheridge - - Auburn
THE BIG BOARD -- MONTH OF MAY
1. Robert Quinn // Defensive End // North Carolina*
- The #1 prospect in the land is a freak of an athlete while still possessing a very mature game for his age. Quinn has developed his body and game even more during the off-season and should be one of the most dominant defensive forces in the nation in 2010.
2. Jake Locker // Quarterback // Washington
- Locker turned down the chance to possibly be the #1 pick in 2010 to return to help Washington get to a bowl game. The chances of that are very possible with a strong offensive team led by the best signal caller in 2010. The Huskie's overall mechanics and intangibles are superb while having the fantastic athleticism to be a consistent threat outside the pocket.
3. A.J. Green // Wide Receiver // Georgia*
- The best receiver since Megatron in 2007, Green has all the tools and abilities to be an elite #1 receiver at the next level. He's put up staggering numbers with two different quarterbacks in his only two years at Athens. In an elite year of wide receivers, Green is the cream of the crop and has All-World potential.
4. Cameron Heyward // Defensive Lineman // Ohio State
- No defensive lineman offers more versatility and size than Heyward. Capable of playing in either a 4-3 or 3-4, the Buckeye has top notch athleticism along the line of scrimmage to be a consistent factor at the next level. He needs some technique work but that is definitely something that can be coached on and can make him one of the better lineman in the league.
5. Ryan Mallett // Quarterback // Arkansas*
- May have the strongest arm in all of football and hasn't stopped developing since transferring from Michigan in 2008. Mallett, hands down, has the most elite physical tools in the class and with more experience he could contend to be the #1 pick in April.
6. Patrick Peterson // Defensive Back // Louisiana State*
- Peterson came on strong as a freshman in 2008 and has been shutting down his side of the field since. He's not an elite athlete but he has excellent technique, ball skills and good fluidity. Not to mention he has severely imposing size at the line of scrimmage, Peterson will be a very hot commodity.
7. Jonathan Baldwin // Wide Receiver // Pittsburgh*
- Of the "Fantastic Four", Baldwin's name isn't being mentioned nearly enough. A massive target with vastly underrated athleticism, Baldwin has excellent hand-eye coordination and body control to be a serious force in the NFL.
8. Andrew Luck // Quarterback // Stanford*
- As a mere R/s sophomore, Luck has shown hints of elite intangibles and abilities at the quarterback position. He needs to prove to be the same force without Toby Gerhart behind him and if he can do that, then Luck has a serious shot of landing the #1 pick next year.
9. Julio Jones // Wide Receiver // Alabama*
- Jones needs to prove more of his game on the field, but he has elite physical abilities and has received some early comparisons to future HOF receiver Terrell Owens. Besides his obvious production skills, there are some worries about his maturity, but his potential and natural abilities would make him well worth the risk.
10. Matt Reynolds // Offensive Tackle // Brigham Young*
- This isn't the best year of talent at offensive tackle, but Reynolds is the top dog and has the chance to be something special at the next level. A natural knee-bender and good athlete with nimble feet, Reynolds has the ability to keep up with some of the faster pass rushers in the nation.
11. Aaron Williams // Cornerback // Texas*
- By the time April rolls around, I think most will consider 2011 to be a better year at cornerback than 2010 and Aaron Williams will be an essential reason. The Longhorn is as smooth and athletic as it gets and is a true acrobat when going after the ball. In the end, I think Williams will be a better overall prospect than last year's #7 pick Joe Haden.
12. Marcel Dareus // Defensive Lineman // Alabama*
- Dareus shot onto the scene with his National Championship performance against Texas and the buzz about him hasn't stopped since. A highly athletic, versatile lineman that plays with uncanny leverage that seems to have him involved in every play of the defensive possession. His stock may be just hype now, but he'll most likely change that with his play this season.
13. Rahim Moore // Safety // UCLA*
- The knock on Moore is that he needs more experience and has to prove to be the same force this year for the Bruins that he was in 2009. Moore is a natural ballhawk though that has a great work ethic and vastly underrated against the run.
14. Jack Crawford // Defensive End // Penn State*
- This may come as a surprise to some people, but Crawford has All-World potential as an edge rusher at the next level. He is still raw and that is understandable, but with the full starting role now in his hands, it's time for him to shine. To put it simply, Crawford has more potential than former Nittany Lion and 2009 1st round choice Aaron Maybin.
15. Akeem Ayers // Outside Linebacker // UCLA*
- Pac-10 teams should look out because two of the best defenders in the nation are attacking from the Bruins sideline. Ayers is a natural, instinctive playmaker who may offer some versatility at defensive end when it's all said and done. He has a massive frame while still possessing the sideline-to-sideline speed to be a first round pick in April.
16. Mark Ingram // Running Back // Alabama*
- Last year's Heisman winner will most likely see a production decline this season but he still has starter potential written all over him. He's a pinball up the middle while still having the vision and lateral ability to attack the sidelines. He also shows the ability to carry the ball 25+ times a game if needed.
17. DeAndre McDaniel // Safety // Clemson
- May not be one of the elite athletes in the class but still has a solid all-around game that should lead him to a stellar career in the NFL. The Tiger is ultra-productive in both the pass and run game and shows great instincts. He is also a better tackler than most linebackers in the ACC.
18. Von Miller // Outside Linebacker/Edge Rusher // Texas A&M
- Miller became a household name last year for the Aggies and will draw some comparisons to 2010 first round pick Jerry Hughes. A silky smooth pass rusher, Miller has shown the ability to get to the quarterback consistently. He needs to prove to be the same force this season and improve his technique, but he is as solid as it gets.
19. Michael Floyd // Wide Receiver // Notre Dame*
- Durability is a big turn-off with Floyd, but his potential when healthy is immense. He's a great vertical threat with tremendous body control and leaping ability. He may also be the biggest red zone threat in the class of all Wide Receivers in 2011.
20. Anthony Castonzo // Offensive Tackle // Boston College
- No offensive lineman in the class offers more experience and polish than Castonzo. He has decent athleticism and great technique to be a good blindside guy for 10+ years. His feet are a bit heavy, but with some improvement, he has the potential to be a cornerstone at the next level.
21. Greg Jones // Linebacker // Michigan State
- A little undersized, but Jones offers supreme athleticism and has been nothing but productive since he stepped foot in East Lansing. He offers some versatility as well but the biggest pro about Jones' game is the fact that he is the most pure form tackler in the class.
22. Adrian Clayborn // Defensive End // Iowa
- Clayborn's stock is a bit overrated due to his lack of overall athleticism and speed off the edge, but no one plays with more heart or relentlessness than the Hawkeye. The status of his stock will most likely depend on the overall success of the Iowa football team this year.
23. Gabe Carimi // Offensive Tackle // Wisconsin
- Most likely the best run blocking tackle in the class of 2011, Carimi has mammoth size and surprisingly nimble feet. He reaches the second level fairly well and should flourish in a run-heavy scheme at the next level.
24. Kyle Rudolph // Tight End // Notre Dame*
- The Jason Witten comparisons are a little much at the moment, but Rudolph has shown glimpses of the Cowboys' Pro Bowler at his better moments. Rudolph is a dynamic receiving threat who isn't a half-bad run blocker either. It will be interesting to see how he does in his first (and maybe last) year in Brian Kelly's spread offense.
25. Dont'a Hightower // Linebacker // Alabama*
- Missed the majority of the 2009 season due to a knee injury but Hightower simply oozes potential. He's built like a tree trunk and has some underrated abilities when chasing the football. Reports are saying that Hightower may even offer more potential than former teammate and 2010 1st round pick, Rolando McClain.
26. Nigel Bradham // Linebacker // Florida State*
- He is still relatively raw, but he is developing extremely well while at Florida State. Bradham's skill set may be the most intriguing of any linebacker in the class as he has proven to drop plenty of jaws with some of the plays he has made on the field for the Seminoles.
27. Jurrell Casey // Defensive Tackle // Southern California*
- The best comparison for Casey is former Trojan Sedrick Ellis, as they have almost the same exact build and game. Casey is an ultra-quick UT who may be the hardest hitting defensive lineman in the entire nation. Don't count out his ability to play end in a 3-4 as well, as he has had some experience playing outside while in Los Angeles.
28. Greg Romeus // Defensive End // Pittsburgh
- A very crafty pass rusher who knows how to use his hands and has the speed to get around the edge. His strength at the point of attack needs some development but once he develops more over time, Romeus could be a valuable asset at the next level.
29. Mike Pouncey // Interior Lineman // Florida
- From an initial standpoint, Mike isn't the same prospect as his brother, but now that he is playing Center for the Gators, his talent should really show. He has really good footwork and legitimate awareness at the line of scrimmage.
30. Prince Amukamara // Cornerback // Nebraska
- The third cornerback in the rankings has a solid overall skill set. Amukamara has proven to be a load against the run and passing game. His ball skills aren't that bad either as he racked up five interceptions for the Cornhuskers last season.
31. Demarco Murray // Running Back // Oklahoma
- If not for his injury issues, Murray would have been a Top 20 choice in April. He's an extremely dynamic player who has a second and even third gear in his speeds. The Sooner also offers versatility with his return and receiving abilities. He is a true home run threat.
32. Allen Bailey // Defensive Lineman // Miami (FL)
- A freak of an athlete in every sense of the phrase, Bailey has the potential to be a serious game-changer in the NFL. He is still raw so his technique needs some work and he has to prove to scouts that he can stay healthy.
33. Kristoffer O'Dowd // Interior Lineman // Southern California
- The Trojan offers elite experience and decent athleticism and footwork. However, he is a tremendous technician and a very aware presence at the lien of scrimmage. O'Dowd was named to the All Pac-10 1st Team as a mere Sophomore. Must stay healthy though.
34. Jerrell Powe // Defensive Lineman // Ole Miss
- Powe will most likely be a hot commodity in April due to the lack of talent at the nose tackle position, but Powe is a good talent in his own right. He is surprisingly very mobile for a man of his stature and will be an intriguing prospect to watch throughout the season.
35. Ryan Williams // Running Back // Virginia Tech**
- Came on extremely productive after replacing injured Darren Evans as a redshirt freshman. However, Williams needs to prove that he is not a product and that he can be the same type of player this season for the Hokies. The Deanglo Williams comparisons are waay to early, but he has good vision and lateral ability.
36. Travis Lewis // Outside Linebacker // Oklahoma
- Highly athletic 'backer who may have some off-field issues but has solid overall mechanics and vision when chasing the ball carrier. He is widely known for his super productive R/s freshman season and will look to build upon his success in 2010.
37. Joe Barksdale // Offensive Tackle // Louisiana State
- Barksdale isn't as athletic or aware as some people are perceiving, but his footwork is decent and he is a stud in the run protection aspect of his game. He's comparable to last year's #4 overall choice Trent Williams in a lot of different eays.
38. Stephen Paea // Defensive Tackle // Oregon State
- An absolute bulldog up the middle, Paea packs quite an explosion of power in his compact size. A good combination of quickness and initial strength at the point of attack, Paea is a relentless lineman who is always near the ball carrier.
39. Will Hill // Safety // Florida*
- How good is Will Hill? Just ask Major Wright who was basically forced to declare early last year after Hill's immense play as a sophomore. He's an extremely fluid athlete with exceptional range and the ability to make a play on the ball. I expect Hill's stock to soar throughout the season for the Gators.
40. DeVier Posey // Wide Receiver // Ohio State*
- Posey is as natural of an athlete as they come and is a true vertical threat. His stock may rely too much on the play of Terrelle Pryor, but he is a fantastic receiver nonetheless and should have scouts talking about his numbers in February.
Just Missed the Cut
- Ras-I Dowling // Defensive Back // Virginia
- Jared Crick // Defensive Lineman // Nebraska*
- Sam Acho // Defensive Lineman // Texas
- Rashard Hall // Safety // Clemson**
- Marvin Austin // Defensive Tackle // North Carolina
All thoughts are acceptable and I welcome them. Like I said previously, I'm looking to make this a monthly thing. Obviously don't expect massive changes in the months of July and August. The only changes will be made due to reflections off of game tape. The meat of the changes will obviously come after the next two months.
Any suggestions for the monthly process are definitely wanted as well.
Obviously players' performances on the field will dictate the movement that they have in the positional rankings and the big board.
So first, before revealing the 1st big board of the 2011 draft class season, I wanted to give some initial analysis and my perspective on the players who are eligible in April.
From an initial standpoint of both 2010 and 2011, I give the edge to 2011. At this point last year, I only had two elite players ranked in Tennessee S Eric Berry and Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy. At the end of the class, the most highly touted defensive player to enter the draft within the past 10-15 years also graded out as an Elite prospect in Nebraska's DT Ndamukong Suh.
However in 2011, I have three prospects ranked at the Elite grade from an initial standpoint. Led by Tar Heel DE Robert Quinn who has a very mature game for his age while still maintaining freakish athleticism to be a constant force around the edge. The #2 prospect in the land is Washington QB Jake Locker. Locker declined the possibility to be the #1 pick in 2010 in order to help the Huskies possibly reach a BCS game this season. Locker has the fantastic intangibles and mechanics as a possible franchise signal caller as well as a great arm strength and tremendous athleticism to be a threat outside the pocket. The last elite prospect and #3 in the class is Georgia Wide Receiver A.J. Green.
Then there are some players who, plain and simple, did not make the cut for the first Big Board. The most notable player being North Carolina DT Marvin Austin. Austin hasn't lived up to the high school hype that followed him to Chapel Hill and really hasn't proven to be the highly projected prospect that most perceived him to be during his tenure. He does show glimpses of promise but it seems that too often he finds himself shoved off the line of scrimmage, lost in the mess or he simply doesn't put forth the full effort to be a star caliber player.
Other players who did not make the cut would be Florida State signal caller Christian Ponder, Clemson redshirt sophomore Rashard Hall and North Carolina CB Kendric Burney. However, I feel that Burney will ultimately be a very hot commodity in April.
So without further adieu; The Big Board -- Month of May revealed, along with the Top 10 positional rankings.
***NOTE FOR UNDERCLASSMEN***
In order for an underclassmen to be ranked, they must be a Top 10 positional talent. I will only state this once and if you cry to me about why Janoris Jenkins or DeAndre Brown aren't listed, then I would like to criticize you in advance for not reading this. As the season moves on, I'll start to add more players to the rankings, but for now, it's only ten players per position.
Quarterback
1. Jake Locker - - Washington
2. Ryan Mallett - - Arkansas*
3. Andrew Luck - - Stanford**
4. Christian Ponder - - Florida State
5. Jerrod Johnson - - Texas A&M
6. Blaine Gabbert - - Missouri*
7. Pat Devlin - - Delaware
8. Nathan Enderle - - Idaho
9. Ricky Stanzi - - Iowa
10. Greg McElroy - - Alabama
Others to Watch
- Case Keenum - - Houston
- Tyrod Taylor - - Virginia Tech
- Mike Hartline - - Kentucky
Running Back
1. Mark Ingram - - Alabama*
2. Demarco Murray - - Oklahoma
3. Ryan Williams - - Virginia Tech**
4. Evan Royster - - Penn State
5. Daniel Thomas - - Kansas State
6. Noel Devine - - West Virginia
7. Allen Bradford - - Southern California
8. Jacquizz Rodgers - - Oregon State*
9. Brandon Saine - - Ohio State
10. Mario Fannin - - Auburn
Others to Watch
- Da'Rel Scott - - Maryland
- Damien Berry - - Miami (FL)
- Vondrell McGee - - Texas
Fullback
1. Owen Marecic - - Stanford
2. Stanley Havili - - Southern California
3. Shaun Chapas - - Georgia
4. D.J. Williams - - Arkansas
5. Charles Clay - - Tulsa
Wide Receiver
1. A.J. Green - - Georgia*
2. Jonathan Baldwin - - Pittsburgh*
3. Julio Jones - - Alabama*
4. Michael Floyd - - Notre Dame*
5. DeVier Posey - - Ohio State*
6. Greg Little - - North Carolina
7. Ryan Broyles - - Oklahoma*
8. Austin Pettis - - Boise State
9. Niles Paul - - Nebraska
10. Terrence Toliver - - Louisiana State
Others to Watch
- Armon Binns - - Cincinnati
- Aldrick Robinson - - Southern Methodist
- Marshall Williams - - Wake Forest
Tight End
1. Kyle Rudolph - - Notre Dame*
2. Luke Stocker - - Tennessee
3. George Bryan - - North Carolina State*
4. Lance Kendricks - - Wisconsin
5. Weslye Saunders - - South Carolina
6. Kavario Middleton - - Washington*
7. Konrad Reuland - - Stanford
8. Mike McNeill - - Nebraska
9. Blake Ayles - - Southern California*
10. Stephen Skelton - - Fordham
Others to Watch
- Greg Smith - - Texas
- Cameron Graham - - Louisville
- Brett Huffman - - Duke
Offensive Tackle
1. Matt Reynolds - - Brigham Young*
2. Anthony Castonzo - - Boston College
3. Gabe Carimi - - Wisconsin
4. Joseph Barksdale - - Louisiana State
5. Lee Ziemba - - Auburn
6. Clint Boling - - Georgia
7. Nate Solder - - Colorado
8. Nate Potter - - Boise State*
9. Derek Sherrod - - Mississippi State
10. Blake DeChristopher - - Virginia Tech*
Others to Watch
- Rob McGill - - Louisiana Tech
- Chris Hairston - - Clemson
- Marcus Cannon - - Texas Christian
Interior Lineman
1. Mike Pouncey - - Florida
2. Kristofer O’Dowd - - Southern California
3. Stefen Wisniewski - - Penn State
4. Justin Boren - - Ohio State
5. Rodney Hudson - - Florida State
6. Mike Brewster - - Ohio State*
7. James Wilson - - Florida*
8. Ben Ijalana - - Villanova
9. John Moffitt - - Wiconsin
10. Thomas Claiborne - - Boston College
Others to Watch
- Stephen Schilling - - Michigan
- Andrew Jackson - - Fresno State
- Joel Figueroa - - Miami (FL)
Defensive End
1. Robert Quinn - - North Carolina*
2. Cameron Heyward - - Ohio State
3. Jack Crawford - - Penn State*
4. Adrian Clayborn - - Iowa
5. Greg Romeus - - Pittsburgh
6. Sam Acho - - Texas
7. Cliff Matthews - - South Carolina
8. Jeremy Beal - - Oklahoma
9. Da’Quan Bowers - - Clemson*
10. Jabaal Sheard - - Pittsburgh
Others to Watch
- Pierre Allen - - Nebraska
- Tom Keiser - - Stanford
- Christian Anthony - - Grambling
Defensive Tackle
1. Marcel Dareus - - Alabama*
2. Jurrell Casey - - Southern California*
3. Allen Bailey - - Miami (FL)
4. Jerrell Powe - - Ole Miss
5. Stephen Paea - - Oregon State
6. Jared Crick - - Nebraska*
7. Marvin Austin - - North Carolina
8. Jarvis Jenkins - - Clemson
9. Kendrick Ellis - - Hampton
10. Lawrence Marsh - - Florida
Others to Watch
- Ricky Lumpkin - - Kentucky
- John Graves - - Virginia Tech
- Ladi Ajiboye - - South Carolina
Outside Linebacker
1. Akeem Ayers - - UCLA*
2. Von Miller - - Texas A&M
3. Nigel Bradham - - Florida State*
4. Travis Lewis - - Oklahoma*
5. Quan Sturdivant - - North Carolina
6. Bruce Carter - - North Carolina
7. Michael Morgan - - Southern California
8. Ross Homan - - Ohio State
9. Mark Herzlich - - Boston College
10. Adrian Robinson - - Temple*
Others to Watch
- Wayne Daniels - - Texas Christian
- Bruce Miller - - Central Florida
- K.J. Wright - - Mississippi State
Inside Linebacker
1. Greg Jones - - Michigan State
2. Dont’a Hightower - - Alabama*
3. Chris Galippo - - Southern California*
4. Colin McCarthy - - Miami (FL)
5. Mike Mohamed - - California
6. Josh Bynes - - Auburn
7. Kelvin Sheppard - - Louisiana State
8. Nate Irving - - North Carolina State
9. Alex Wujciak - - Maryland
10. Barquell Rivers - - Virginia Tech*
Others to Watch
- Casey Mathews - - Oregon
- Brian Rolle - - Ohio State
- Akeem Dent - - Georgia
Cornerback
1. Patrick Peterson - - Louisiana State*
2. Aaron Williams - - Texas*
3. Prince Amukamara - - Nebraska
4. Ras-I Dowling - - Virginia
5. Curtis Brown - - Texas
6. Kendric Burney - - North Carolina
7. Brandon Harris - - Miami (FL)*
8. Rashad Carmichael - - Virginia Tech
9. Davon House - - New Mexico State
10. Brandon Boykin - - Georgia*
Others to Watch
- Jason Teague - - Texas Christian
- Marcus Gilchrist - - Clemson
- Mario Butler - - Georgia Tech
Safety
1. Rahim Moore - - UCLA*
2. DeAndre McDaniel - - Clemson
3. Will Hill - - Florida*
4. Rashard Hall - - Clemson**
5. Mark Barron - - Alabama*
6. Deunta Williams - - North Carolina
7. Chris Culliver - - South Carolina
8. Karnell Hatcher - - Louisiana State*
9. Jaiquawn Jarrett - - Temple
10. Robert Sands - - West Virginia*
Others to Watch
- Quinton Carter - - Oklahoma
- Davonte Shannon - - Buffalo
- Zac Etheridge - - Auburn
THE BIG BOARD -- MONTH OF MAY
1. Robert Quinn // Defensive End // North Carolina*
- The #1 prospect in the land is a freak of an athlete while still possessing a very mature game for his age. Quinn has developed his body and game even more during the off-season and should be one of the most dominant defensive forces in the nation in 2010.
2. Jake Locker // Quarterback // Washington
- Locker turned down the chance to possibly be the #1 pick in 2010 to return to help Washington get to a bowl game. The chances of that are very possible with a strong offensive team led by the best signal caller in 2010. The Huskie's overall mechanics and intangibles are superb while having the fantastic athleticism to be a consistent threat outside the pocket.
3. A.J. Green // Wide Receiver // Georgia*
- The best receiver since Megatron in 2007, Green has all the tools and abilities to be an elite #1 receiver at the next level. He's put up staggering numbers with two different quarterbacks in his only two years at Athens. In an elite year of wide receivers, Green is the cream of the crop and has All-World potential.
4. Cameron Heyward // Defensive Lineman // Ohio State
- No defensive lineman offers more versatility and size than Heyward. Capable of playing in either a 4-3 or 3-4, the Buckeye has top notch athleticism along the line of scrimmage to be a consistent factor at the next level. He needs some technique work but that is definitely something that can be coached on and can make him one of the better lineman in the league.
5. Ryan Mallett // Quarterback // Arkansas*
- May have the strongest arm in all of football and hasn't stopped developing since transferring from Michigan in 2008. Mallett, hands down, has the most elite physical tools in the class and with more experience he could contend to be the #1 pick in April.
6. Patrick Peterson // Defensive Back // Louisiana State*
- Peterson came on strong as a freshman in 2008 and has been shutting down his side of the field since. He's not an elite athlete but he has excellent technique, ball skills and good fluidity. Not to mention he has severely imposing size at the line of scrimmage, Peterson will be a very hot commodity.
7. Jonathan Baldwin // Wide Receiver // Pittsburgh*
- Of the "Fantastic Four", Baldwin's name isn't being mentioned nearly enough. A massive target with vastly underrated athleticism, Baldwin has excellent hand-eye coordination and body control to be a serious force in the NFL.
8. Andrew Luck // Quarterback // Stanford*
- As a mere R/s sophomore, Luck has shown hints of elite intangibles and abilities at the quarterback position. He needs to prove to be the same force without Toby Gerhart behind him and if he can do that, then Luck has a serious shot of landing the #1 pick next year.
9. Julio Jones // Wide Receiver // Alabama*
- Jones needs to prove more of his game on the field, but he has elite physical abilities and has received some early comparisons to future HOF receiver Terrell Owens. Besides his obvious production skills, there are some worries about his maturity, but his potential and natural abilities would make him well worth the risk.
10. Matt Reynolds // Offensive Tackle // Brigham Young*
- This isn't the best year of talent at offensive tackle, but Reynolds is the top dog and has the chance to be something special at the next level. A natural knee-bender and good athlete with nimble feet, Reynolds has the ability to keep up with some of the faster pass rushers in the nation.
11. Aaron Williams // Cornerback // Texas*
- By the time April rolls around, I think most will consider 2011 to be a better year at cornerback than 2010 and Aaron Williams will be an essential reason. The Longhorn is as smooth and athletic as it gets and is a true acrobat when going after the ball. In the end, I think Williams will be a better overall prospect than last year's #7 pick Joe Haden.
12. Marcel Dareus // Defensive Lineman // Alabama*
- Dareus shot onto the scene with his National Championship performance against Texas and the buzz about him hasn't stopped since. A highly athletic, versatile lineman that plays with uncanny leverage that seems to have him involved in every play of the defensive possession. His stock may be just hype now, but he'll most likely change that with his play this season.
13. Rahim Moore // Safety // UCLA*
- The knock on Moore is that he needs more experience and has to prove to be the same force this year for the Bruins that he was in 2009. Moore is a natural ballhawk though that has a great work ethic and vastly underrated against the run.
14. Jack Crawford // Defensive End // Penn State*
- This may come as a surprise to some people, but Crawford has All-World potential as an edge rusher at the next level. He is still raw and that is understandable, but with the full starting role now in his hands, it's time for him to shine. To put it simply, Crawford has more potential than former Nittany Lion and 2009 1st round choice Aaron Maybin.
15. Akeem Ayers // Outside Linebacker // UCLA*
- Pac-10 teams should look out because two of the best defenders in the nation are attacking from the Bruins sideline. Ayers is a natural, instinctive playmaker who may offer some versatility at defensive end when it's all said and done. He has a massive frame while still possessing the sideline-to-sideline speed to be a first round pick in April.
16. Mark Ingram // Running Back // Alabama*
- Last year's Heisman winner will most likely see a production decline this season but he still has starter potential written all over him. He's a pinball up the middle while still having the vision and lateral ability to attack the sidelines. He also shows the ability to carry the ball 25+ times a game if needed.
17. DeAndre McDaniel // Safety // Clemson
- May not be one of the elite athletes in the class but still has a solid all-around game that should lead him to a stellar career in the NFL. The Tiger is ultra-productive in both the pass and run game and shows great instincts. He is also a better tackler than most linebackers in the ACC.
18. Von Miller // Outside Linebacker/Edge Rusher // Texas A&M
- Miller became a household name last year for the Aggies and will draw some comparisons to 2010 first round pick Jerry Hughes. A silky smooth pass rusher, Miller has shown the ability to get to the quarterback consistently. He needs to prove to be the same force this season and improve his technique, but he is as solid as it gets.
19. Michael Floyd // Wide Receiver // Notre Dame*
- Durability is a big turn-off with Floyd, but his potential when healthy is immense. He's a great vertical threat with tremendous body control and leaping ability. He may also be the biggest red zone threat in the class of all Wide Receivers in 2011.
20. Anthony Castonzo // Offensive Tackle // Boston College
- No offensive lineman in the class offers more experience and polish than Castonzo. He has decent athleticism and great technique to be a good blindside guy for 10+ years. His feet are a bit heavy, but with some improvement, he has the potential to be a cornerstone at the next level.
21. Greg Jones // Linebacker // Michigan State
- A little undersized, but Jones offers supreme athleticism and has been nothing but productive since he stepped foot in East Lansing. He offers some versatility as well but the biggest pro about Jones' game is the fact that he is the most pure form tackler in the class.
22. Adrian Clayborn // Defensive End // Iowa
- Clayborn's stock is a bit overrated due to his lack of overall athleticism and speed off the edge, but no one plays with more heart or relentlessness than the Hawkeye. The status of his stock will most likely depend on the overall success of the Iowa football team this year.
23. Gabe Carimi // Offensive Tackle // Wisconsin
- Most likely the best run blocking tackle in the class of 2011, Carimi has mammoth size and surprisingly nimble feet. He reaches the second level fairly well and should flourish in a run-heavy scheme at the next level.
24. Kyle Rudolph // Tight End // Notre Dame*
- The Jason Witten comparisons are a little much at the moment, but Rudolph has shown glimpses of the Cowboys' Pro Bowler at his better moments. Rudolph is a dynamic receiving threat who isn't a half-bad run blocker either. It will be interesting to see how he does in his first (and maybe last) year in Brian Kelly's spread offense.
25. Dont'a Hightower // Linebacker // Alabama*
- Missed the majority of the 2009 season due to a knee injury but Hightower simply oozes potential. He's built like a tree trunk and has some underrated abilities when chasing the football. Reports are saying that Hightower may even offer more potential than former teammate and 2010 1st round pick, Rolando McClain.
26. Nigel Bradham // Linebacker // Florida State*
- He is still relatively raw, but he is developing extremely well while at Florida State. Bradham's skill set may be the most intriguing of any linebacker in the class as he has proven to drop plenty of jaws with some of the plays he has made on the field for the Seminoles.
27. Jurrell Casey // Defensive Tackle // Southern California*
- The best comparison for Casey is former Trojan Sedrick Ellis, as they have almost the same exact build and game. Casey is an ultra-quick UT who may be the hardest hitting defensive lineman in the entire nation. Don't count out his ability to play end in a 3-4 as well, as he has had some experience playing outside while in Los Angeles.
28. Greg Romeus // Defensive End // Pittsburgh
- A very crafty pass rusher who knows how to use his hands and has the speed to get around the edge. His strength at the point of attack needs some development but once he develops more over time, Romeus could be a valuable asset at the next level.
29. Mike Pouncey // Interior Lineman // Florida
- From an initial standpoint, Mike isn't the same prospect as his brother, but now that he is playing Center for the Gators, his talent should really show. He has really good footwork and legitimate awareness at the line of scrimmage.
30. Prince Amukamara // Cornerback // Nebraska
- The third cornerback in the rankings has a solid overall skill set. Amukamara has proven to be a load against the run and passing game. His ball skills aren't that bad either as he racked up five interceptions for the Cornhuskers last season.
31. Demarco Murray // Running Back // Oklahoma
- If not for his injury issues, Murray would have been a Top 20 choice in April. He's an extremely dynamic player who has a second and even third gear in his speeds. The Sooner also offers versatility with his return and receiving abilities. He is a true home run threat.
32. Allen Bailey // Defensive Lineman // Miami (FL)
- A freak of an athlete in every sense of the phrase, Bailey has the potential to be a serious game-changer in the NFL. He is still raw so his technique needs some work and he has to prove to scouts that he can stay healthy.
33. Kristoffer O'Dowd // Interior Lineman // Southern California
- The Trojan offers elite experience and decent athleticism and footwork. However, he is a tremendous technician and a very aware presence at the lien of scrimmage. O'Dowd was named to the All Pac-10 1st Team as a mere Sophomore. Must stay healthy though.
34. Jerrell Powe // Defensive Lineman // Ole Miss
- Powe will most likely be a hot commodity in April due to the lack of talent at the nose tackle position, but Powe is a good talent in his own right. He is surprisingly very mobile for a man of his stature and will be an intriguing prospect to watch throughout the season.
35. Ryan Williams // Running Back // Virginia Tech**
- Came on extremely productive after replacing injured Darren Evans as a redshirt freshman. However, Williams needs to prove that he is not a product and that he can be the same type of player this season for the Hokies. The Deanglo Williams comparisons are waay to early, but he has good vision and lateral ability.
36. Travis Lewis // Outside Linebacker // Oklahoma
- Highly athletic 'backer who may have some off-field issues but has solid overall mechanics and vision when chasing the ball carrier. He is widely known for his super productive R/s freshman season and will look to build upon his success in 2010.
37. Joe Barksdale // Offensive Tackle // Louisiana State
- Barksdale isn't as athletic or aware as some people are perceiving, but his footwork is decent and he is a stud in the run protection aspect of his game. He's comparable to last year's #4 overall choice Trent Williams in a lot of different eays.
38. Stephen Paea // Defensive Tackle // Oregon State
- An absolute bulldog up the middle, Paea packs quite an explosion of power in his compact size. A good combination of quickness and initial strength at the point of attack, Paea is a relentless lineman who is always near the ball carrier.
39. Will Hill // Safety // Florida*
- How good is Will Hill? Just ask Major Wright who was basically forced to declare early last year after Hill's immense play as a sophomore. He's an extremely fluid athlete with exceptional range and the ability to make a play on the ball. I expect Hill's stock to soar throughout the season for the Gators.
40. DeVier Posey // Wide Receiver // Ohio State*
- Posey is as natural of an athlete as they come and is a true vertical threat. His stock may rely too much on the play of Terrelle Pryor, but he is a fantastic receiver nonetheless and should have scouts talking about his numbers in February.
Just Missed the Cut
- Ras-I Dowling // Defensive Back // Virginia
- Jared Crick // Defensive Lineman // Nebraska*
- Sam Acho // Defensive Lineman // Texas
- Rashard Hall // Safety // Clemson**
- Marvin Austin // Defensive Tackle // North Carolina
All thoughts are acceptable and I welcome them. Like I said previously, I'm looking to make this a monthly thing. Obviously don't expect massive changes in the months of July and August. The only changes will be made due to reflections off of game tape. The meat of the changes will obviously come after the next two months.
Any suggestions for the monthly process are definitely wanted as well.