2009 NFL Draft Preview: The Top Quarterbacks

Many an NFL expert will say that had Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy come out in this year’s draft, it would have been one of the best drafts for quarterbacks possibly since the 2004 NFL Draft which produced such players as Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger and Phillip Rivers. However, there are only a few bright shining stars at the position this year but there could be a few surprises.

With the Senior Bowl over and more evaluations in on some of the players in the 2009 NFL Draft, let’s take a look at the top five quarterbacks in the draft as it stands right now, this final week of February 2009.

Matthew Stafford-Georgia-Many experts predict Stafford to not only be the first quarterback selected but to also be the first player selected in the 2009 NFL Draft. While this can be disputed (and will be for some time up until draft time) Stafford does have a lot of talent and could really help out any team that drafts him. In the positive, Stafford has the arm strength and size to compete well in the NFL. He can also take a hit and get right back up and keep on going. He has a ton of ability along with some room to grow. On the downside, Stafford has been known to be a poor decision maker and his accuracy has some scouts scratching their heads. He also tends to force the ball into coverage leaving him wide open to turn the ball over or cause an incompletion.

If Stafford went to the Detroit Lions with the first pick, the Lions would probably expect to drop him into the starting lineup right away and this could damage Stafford’s career. He is one of the most NFL ready quarterbacks, granted, but he isn’t quite that ready and shouldn’t be thrown into the starting lineup until he is. I would look for him to go somewhere in the top five to ten of the NFL Draft, possibly to Detroit or possibly to Seattle or even Kansas City.

Mark Sanchez-USC-Sanchez’ arrival into the NFL Draft was somewhat of a surprise for many as there are several experts who think that Sanchez could have used another season to improve his skills and win more games. However, he has come out now and the NFL will certainly find a place for him. When looking at his upside, Sanchez has ideal size and skill for the position and has very good accuracy. He is able to make plays with on the move with his feet. Toughness is another trait that Sanchez possesses and he can take a hit. He is also one of the smartest quarterbacks in the draft and could pick up an NFL offense in a hurry. When looking at the negative aspects of Sanchez’s game, the first knock on him is his lack of experience. He has only started one season and that might scare off a few teams that are looking at him, at least as a high draft pick. He also needs to stick to the plan when he is on the field and not get too creative costing the team yards and points. Scouts also need to check his injury history and make sure he will be able to stand up to an NFL style pounding.

When looking at where Sanchez may go, it’s hard to say right now because he does have a lot of talent but he is a somewhat unknown commodity at this time. A lot about where he goes in the upcoming 2009 NFL Draft will depend on how he does in workouts as well as what the teams need a quarterback. If he is deemed to be first round talent, he could go early in the first round quite possibly to a team like Seattle or Kansas City or later in the round to Detroit (with their second pick) or perhaps even Chicago.

Josh Freeman-Kansas State-Freeman is a guy that is moving up fast on many draft boards thanks to his physical attributes and his potential but there are also a lot of questions surrounding his experience and whether or not he would be worthy of a first round pick (which is the round that some experts have him going in at this time). One of the biggest positive things with Freeman is his size. He is big and durable and can withstand a lot of pounding in the NFL. He also has a strong arm and can fling the ball far and zip it into tight places. He might have a lot of learning to do but he does have room to grow. The downside to Freeman is his experience. He doesn’t have a lot of time as a starter and needs to learn the finer points and nuances of the game but should be able to learn that fairly quickly in the NFL. Freeman also needs to make better decisions as some of time he doesn’t think through what he does on the field.

Freeman is still somewhat of a question mark to some heading into the draft and really should have remained for his senior season but coming out (most likely due to a coaching change at Kansas State) may have been the best idea. He will have to rely on workouts to help move his draft stock up and he should be able to do that easily. I would look for Freeman to go somewhere in the mid to bottom of the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft, possibly to Detroit (with their second pick) or even to a team like Tampa Bay.

Pat White-West Virginia-Sure, it might be difficult to envision Pat White being one of the top quarterbacks in the 2009 NFL Draft but after a solid career at the West Virginia as well as a great showing at the Senior Bowl and at practice he is definitely in the mix for a quarterback spot in this year’s draft. When looking at his upside White is a very athletic player who is able to make plays with his feet and also his arm. He does have good arm strength and pretty consistent accuracy. He can also make plays where they may not be able to be made and is a leader on the field. The biggest knock on White is his size. At 6’1” he may not be able to see the field very well and being as light as he is, he may not be able to stand up to the pounding that he would get in the NFL. He has also had some problems with mechanics on some of his throws.

Many NFL scouts feel that White is a hard guy to place in a position in the NFL because he could play both quarterback and wide receiver. His Senior Bowl performance may have actually increased the chance that he will play quarterback in the NFL but teams may find it difficult to place him that position due to his size. White is a great athlete though and will be of some value to the NFL team that picks him. It’s possible that White could go somewhere in the second round but he might slip a bit if teams think that he is an athlete rather than a quarterback.

Rhett Bomar-Sam Houston State-Bomar is somewhat of a surprise in being named one of the top five quarterbacks in the draft but after a decent performance at the Senior Bowl, he needs to be kept in any 2009 NFL Draft conversation. Bomar brings a few good things to the table in terms of positive attributes. He is a leader both on and off the field and has been an inspiration to his teammates. He also has a big arm and can needle a pass into his receivers with good precision. He can move too and make plays with his legs and keep the play going. Bomar seems to have some problems with his basic passing mechanics however and will have to improve upon that. He also makes some poor decisions at times. There are also health and character questions that come with Bomar.

Workouts will be key for Bomar who needs to have a good showing in order to move up the draft boards of many NFL teams. If he can prove that he isn’t going to be as mistake prone as he was in college, he should be able to catch the eyes of NFL scouts and head coaches and be a fairly hot commodity in this year’s draft. Look for Bomar to turn a lot of heads and quite possibly be selected in the late second to early third round of the 2009 NFL Draft.

By Bryan Dietzler

Super Bowl Preview

By far, the biggest surprise of the postseason is the fact that NFL Draft experts across America have to wait one more week to see if the Cardinals will be picking last. Somehow, even after those wins over Atlanta, Carolina, and Philadelphia, it still seems surreal.

On the other hand, the Steelers, quite simply, are real. There are no astonished looks on the faces of the fans from Steel City. This is a team that expects to win it all, and often has.

It's a matchup of teams as opposite as Obama-McCain. It's a passing attack that has rejuvenated a stellar career versus a storied franchise that has rededicated itself to a brutal inside running game. It's a game that has somehow sparked the curiosity of the nation despite lacking a team from Dallas or New York or Boston.

But the real story lies below the surface of Steelers at Cardinals; it's in the individual matchups.

It all starts with Larry Fitzgerald. The guy is a beast. There's no better way to put it. Through the Cardinals' first three playoff games, Fitzgerald has been uncoverable, uncatchable, and unstoppable. Every week it's the same mantra from that poor majority that continues to doubt the Cards: we just have to stop Fitzgerald, we can stop Fitzgerald.

Well you can't.

A weak Falcons secondary couldn't handle him. Carolina, one of the better defensive teams in the NFC, had two weeks to prepare for this passing attack, not to mention the added advantage of having Anquan Boldin relegated to the sidelines, but Fitzgerald gained 161 yards and scored early to silence the Charlotte crowd. In the NFC Championship game Brian Dawkins was supposed to patrol the middle of the field like a rabid Cerberus, but once more the Cards came through. Fitzgerald again opened the scoring, and followed it up with perhaps the best game of his career. Nine catches for 152 yards and three scores is a pretty decent way to silence the critics.

Of course, the defense Arizona will face on Sunday is not normal. They aren't a hopeful group that relies on offensive production in order to feel comfortable. This is a tone-setting defense that recently out D-ed the most talked about tacklers of the decade. The Steelers didn't become the number one unit in the NFL by accident. They did so with plays like that Troy Polamalu pick-six that slammed the door to the Ravens' Super Bowl hopes in Joe Flacco's face. A guy like Polamalu is not normal.

Philly's Brian Dawkins is a world-class hitter. And Asante Samuel has a sixth sense for intercepting passes. But no one Arizona has faced combines both skills the way Polamalu does. Looking back at that Baltimore game, the Steeler's safety was often in position to make a play before the receivers were even out of their cuts.

Polamalu excels at reading the quarterback's eyes. Watch him in pass coverage and you'll see it every time. A rookie like Flacco had no chance. When Kurt Warner drops back he has to give false looks. Even if Warner knows he's going to Fitzgerald, he simply cannot show his hand. Polamalu is a five-time pro-bowler. Asked about that game-clinching interception against Baltimore, he stated without hesitation that Flacco was being forced to look underneath due to the Steelers' deep drops. That's what makes him so special. Not only do his flattening blows intimidate the receivers, not only does his ability to read make him dangerous, but his understanding of the game puts him on a level rivaled by no safeties the Cardinals have faced.

Of course, it helps to have such an impressive cast in front of him. NFL Defensive MVP James Harrison makes the secondary's job pretty easy. Harrison's ability to relentlessly pester opposing passers earned him 16 sacks this season, and he'll be coming after Warner more than a few times in Tampa. In fact, the Steelers were second in the NFL at getting to the quarterback. With that kind of pressure it should be difficult for Fitzgerald to find those deep openings that have sparked Arizona in their improbable run.

Unless Warner and the Cardinals' O line puts together another performance like the one against Philadelphia. That Eagles defense is the closest thing they have seen to what Pittsburgh will do and they handled it perfectly. Warner was on fire against the Eagles' blitz packages. Every time there was significant pressure he expertly placed the ball in Fitzgerald's hands or smartly dumped it off to a safety valve out of the backfield. That experience will be invaluable on Sunday.

Sure the Steelers were able to sit back more often that usual against Flacco, but Warner is a veteran with a Super Bowl ring. This is a guy with Doyle Brunson's poker face, not a first year kid who needed three and a half quarters to settle down. Polamalu will have to gamble in ways that weren't necessary against the Ravens. In fact, Warner's experience may be the edge the Cards need to pull off yet another upset, but it won't happen without some semblance of a running game.

Part of the credit for Warner's success is due to the resurgence of Edgerrin James and the rushing attack. The play action pass has opened up beautifully now that teams have been forced to respect the running backs. Gaining yards on the ground is no small task against the Steelers. Pittsburgh's front seven has been brilliant at forcing foes into one dimensional attacks. Think Flacco wouldn't have been more successful if the Ravens could have managed more than 73 yards on the ground. If Arizona wants to smile in the faces of their critics one last time, that cannot happen.

This is what the Super Bowl is all about. It's a chance to prove that winning three in a row after dropping four out of six is not a fluke. It's an opportunity to revitalize a dynasty with brute force. The Super Bowl is an unparalleled stage where the best earn that right against the best. Record breaking performances and highlight reel interceptions are mirages in the past. In Tampa, it's about winning the individual matchups so that an entire team can enjoy the shared camaraderie of a successful effort.

Hype It Up

By Guest Columnist Hunter Ansley

Updated 2009 NFL Mock Draft

The NFL Draft Site's Official 2009 NFL Mock Draft has just been updated and I think this is CJ's best work to date. He has included all the recent underclassmen that have declared for the 2009 NFL Draft and has also taken into account some performances during practice at the 2009 Senior Bowl.

It's real easy to pick apart a guys' mock draft and even legendary Draftnik Mel Kiper has drawn a lot of criticism for his latest Big Board where he has OT Michael Oher falling all the way to #25. I like Mel Kiper, I really do, over the years he has been by far the most accurate and consistent Draftnik. But either Kiper was drunk when he updated it or he knows something we don't, because I see Oher as a potential top five selection. For a far more comprehensive and accurate list of the 2009 NFL Prospects visit NFL Draft Dog's Big Board.

So back to CJ's Mock Draft, I am going to get the discussion started by commenting on a few of his selections.

At #3 I think Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry would be a fantastic selection and we all know the Chiefs needs linebackers, but they do need a better pass rush and Texas DE Brian Orakpo is still on the board, and a lot of people feel that WR Michael Crabtree is the best player in the draft. Then of course our friend Mel Kiper thinks they will draft USC Junior QB Mark Sanchez, who by the way I do not agree with. Sanchez is to inexperienced and risky in my opinion to be drafted that high.

CJ has Sanchez going at #10 to the San Francisco 49ers, which I don't agree with as I am not keen on Sanchez until the 2nd round, but that would be a better value, and I can't deny that quarterback (QB) is a need for the 49ers. I think defensive line is the bigger need for the 49ers.

USC LB Brian Cushing is being selected at #14 by the New Orleans Saints which I think would be a great selection. Cushing came to 2009 Senior Bowl in great shape and by all reports dominated. At 6' 4" 255 pounds, Cushing has an NFL caliber body and if he stays healthy could be in the running for defensive rookie of the year honors.

The selection by the Texans at #15 of Missouri sophomre WR Jeremy Maclin isn't bad at all, Pro Bowl WR Andre Johnson definately needs some help, but with Illinois junior CB Vontae Davis still on board it will be hard to pass on him. Last year the Texans tried to plug in Cowboys rejected Cornerback Jaques Reeves and it was a huge failure.

I am questioning the selection of Oklahoma TE Brandon Pettigrew by the Chargers at #16. Pettigrew is a beast, great hands, fast and a supreme blocker, but the Chargers have so many other holes to fill like offensive line, cornerback and outside linebacker and they do have a tight end on the roster that isn't half bad in Antonio Gates.

CJ must be drinking some Mel Kiper Cool-Aide or maybe he is just way smarter than me (which is highly likely) because he has Ole Miss OT Michael Oher falling all the way down to #20 to the Detroit Lions (Maybe he is a Lions fan). If this holds true the Lions would be ecstatic to get an elite tackle like Oher at that spot in the draft.

I can't see the eagles drafting Virginia LB Clint Sintim at #21 or even at all. Sintim played in a 34 defense at Virginia and has struggled a little adapting to the 43 defense at the 2009 Senior Bowl practices. I love Sintim and think he can still be a late first rounder, but he is a much better fit for a team that runs the 34 defense which the Eagles do not.

At #25 I think the proposed selection of Utah Junior Safety Sean Smith by the Dolphins is excellent. That pick is visionary and unique and I think the athletic, nicely sized (6' 3" 214 lbs)Smith will rise up the draft boards as we get closer to the draft. The current safeties of Yeremiah Bell and Renaldo Hill definately need to be upgraded.

I really like the Eagles pick at #28 of Arizona junior OT Eben Britton. Aging right tackle John Runyan will likely retire and left tackle Tra Thomas isn't what he used to be, he (Thomas) has clearly lost a step and Britton should be able to come in and start right away.

I also love the selection by the Cardinals of sophomore Pitt RB LeSean McCoy. RB Edgerrin James isn't what he used to be and I will be suprised if he is brought back next year. The Cards with yet another offensive weapon is a scary thing.

So those are a few of my thoughts, let me hear what you think.

By Robert Bryant

2009 NFL Draft Rankings: The Top 5 Players at Each Position

The following is a listing of the top five prospects at each position for the week of January 26th, 2009 following the 2009 Senior Bowl.

Quarterback

1. Mathew Stafford-Georgia*
2. Mark Sanchez-USC*
3. Josh Freeman-Kansas State*
4. Rhett Bomar-Sam Houston State
5. John Parker Wilson-Alabama

Running Backs

1. LeSean McCoy-Pittsburgh*
2. Knowshon Moreno-Georgia*
3. Chris Wells-Ohio State*
4. Shonn Greene-Iowa*
5. Donald Brown-Connecticut*

Fullbacks

1. Jorvorskie Lane-Texas A&M
2. Brannon Southerland-Georgia
3. Brock Bolen-Louisville
4. Conredge Collins-Pittsburgh
5. Tony Fiammetta-Syracuse

Wide Receivers

1. Michael Crabtree-Texas Tech*
2. Jeremy Maclin-Missouri*
3. Percy Harvin-Florida*
4. Darrius Heyward-Bey-Maryland*
5. Kenny Britt-Rutgers*

Tight Ends

1. Brandon Pettigrew-Oklahoma St.
2. Chase Coffman-Missouri
3. Jared Cook-South Carolina*
4. James Casey-Rice*
5. Travis Beckum-Wisconsin

Offensive Tackles

1. Andre Smith-Alabama*
2. Michael Oher-Ole Miss
3. Jason Smith-Baylor
4. Eugene Monroe-Virginia
5. Eben Britton-Arizona*

Offensive Guards

1. Duke Robinson-Oklahoma
2. Herman Johnson-LSU
3. Kraig Urbik-Wisconsin
4. Cedric Dockery-Texas
5. Jeremy Perry- Oregon State

Centers

1. Alex Mack-California
2. Max Unger-Oregon
3. Eric Wood-Louisville
4. Antoine Caldwell-Alabama
5. Jonathan Luigs-Arkansas

Defensive Ends

1. Everette Brown-Florida St.*
2. Brian Orakpo-Texas
3. Michael Johnson-Georgia Tech
4. Aaron Maybin-Penn St.*
5. Tyson Jackson-LSU

Defensive Tackles

1. B.J. Raji-Boston College
2. Peria Jerry-Ole Miss
3. Sen’Derrick Marks-Auburn
4. Fili Moala-USC
5. Evander Hood-Missouri

Outside Linebackers

1. Aaron Curry-Wake Forest
2. Sean Weatherspoon-Missouri*
3. Brian Cushing-USC
4. Gerald McRath-Southern Miss*
5. Clint Sintim-Virginia

Inside Linebackers

1. Rey Maulauga-USC
2. Darry Beckwith-LSU
3. James Laurinaitis-Ohio State
4. Dannell Ellerbe-Georgia
5. Jasper Brinkley-South Carolina

Cornerbacks

1. Alphonso Smith-Wake Forest
2. Malcolm Jenkins-Ohio State
3. Vontae Davis-Illinois*
4. Sean Smith-Utah*
5. Mike Mickens-Cincinnati

Safeties

1. Patrick Chung-Oregon
2. Michael Hamlin-Clemson
3. Derek Pegues-Mississippi State
4. William Moore-Missouri
5. Courtney Greene-Rutgers

Kickers

1. Louie Sakoda-Utah
2. Graham Gano-Florida State
3. Jose Martinez-UTEP
4. Ryan Succop-South Carolina
5. Austin Starr-Indiana

Punters

1. Kevin Huber-Cincinnati
2. Louie Sakoda-Utah
3. Chris Miller-Ball St.
4. Aaron Perez-UCLA
5. Thomas Morstead-SMU

By Brian Dietzler

The Top Five: The NFL Draft Top Five

While the rankings in the 2009 NFL Draft are going to change a lot from now until the draft in April, there are going to be five players that stand out head and shoulders above the rest and who aren’t going to lose too much ground in the rankings. The following is a look at those top five players who should remain top five players through the 2009 NFL Draft.

Michael Oher-OT-Mississippi-Oher is the clear cut dominant prospect at the offensive tackle position in this year’s draft and should be the first tackle picked come draft time. He may even be the first pick in the draft depending on what the Lions do (it’s doubtful that they would go after Oher especially since they took a tackle in the first round of last year’s draft but they could also trade the top pick and someone else could come on in and take Oher.

Oher has almost everything it takes to step in and start right away as the consummate left tackle (on the side that the quarterback has his back to when he is a right handed quarterback and is throwing the ball) and should be able to hold up well enough in both pass and run blocking. At 6 feet 5 inches and 320 pounds, Oher is just about the perfect size for playing the position. He also has the speed and the moves to help keep opposing defenders away from his quarterback and will be quite a challenge to overcome by many a defender in the NFL. Look for Oher to develop into one of the better prospects to come out of the 2009 NFL Draft and look to hear about him often in the next few years.

Matthew Stafford-QB-Georgia-With Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford deciding to stay in school for another year, Georgia’s Stafford has risen to the top of the quarterback rankings and should, barring any kind of serious setback, be the first quarterback selected in the 2009 NFL Draft this April. There are some knocks against Stafford and he will have a lot to prove in order to try to cement “first pick in the draft status” as well as have to fend off USC quarterback Mark Sanchez who might be nipping at his heels a bit. The upside to Stafford is that he has good size and a strong arm but he makes questionable decisions and doesn’t play with a lot consistency. Of course, this will be a problem at the next level and these are all problems that he will have to correct in order to be a success at the next level.

Stafford is one of those quarterbacks who might need to develop a bit in the NFL before becoming an effective starter. Right now, there are many people who feel that Stafford could lose the top spot to Sanchez if he doesn’t prove that he can make good decisions in the NFL. However, one thing that Stafford has a clear advantage over Sanchez in is experience. Sanchez didn’t start that many games at USC and scouts will look at that heavily when evaluating him. Stafford has the edge so far but could easily lose it if he slips up in any of the offseason activities he has ahead of him.

Michael Crabtree-WR-Texas Tech-Crabtree could end up being the first wide receiver selected in the 2009 NFL Draft and has just about everything that you would want in a top end wide receiver. The upside to Crabtree is that he has the size and body to play the position effectively. He is good at making the tough catch and shielding the defender away from the ball ensuring that he catches the pass and the defender doesn’t. He is tough as well and is willing to take a big hit to make the catch. He has great hands too and rarely drops a pass. Crabtree is mechanically sound and knows how to play the game.

The biggest fault that you will find in Crabtree is that he isn’t going to be a burner or a “field stretcher” like some other wide receivers in this draft will be. He isn’t going to outrun too many people and can get caught from behind. There is also some question as to how he will react in the NFL when it comes to playing in big games week in and week out. During his time in school, he all but disappeared during big games (see this year’s bowl game and Texas Tech’s game against Oklahoma) leaving some to wonder how he will handle the big time NFL pressure. Good workouts and great showings with scouts should cement Crabtree as the number one wide receiver taken in the 2009 NFL Draft. However, don’t be surprised if Percy Harvin is nipping at his heels for most of the offseason.

Andre Smith-OT-Alabama-Smith may end up replacing Oher as the top offensive tackle in the 2009 NFL Draft before too long and may even be the best player in the draft depending on how he does the next few months. When you look at Smith, the first thing that you will notice about him is that he’s big with a good combination of athleticism and has great mechanics for the position. He is one of the most dominant offensive linemen to come out of college in a long time. His footwork is impressive and he’s intelligent enough to pick things up quickly in the NFL.

However, every player does have his faults and Smith has just a few. He might want to lose a little bit of weight to add some additional quickness and speed which would help him out a lot in the NFL. Another knock on him is his height. At six feet four inches, Smith isn’t the tallest guy in the mix but he more than makes up for it with his skill and his ability to play the position. As long as he has a good set of workouts and can impress the scouts, Smith could almost easily overtake Oher as the top offensive tackle prospect and may even be selected first overall in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Aaron Curry-OLB-Wake Forest-Playing at Wake Forest didn’t give Curry a lot of attention but his play this past season has drawn the attention of many NFL scouts and it’s not impossible to say that he may just be the first defensive player off the board in this year’s draft. When you look at Curry, the first thing you will notice is his size and speed. Curry is just the right size for the position and his speed not only allows him to move towards the ball quickly and make the play. He also has good instincts and with his speed is able to cover backs out of the backfield and quicker tight ends.

What he lacks is the overall athleticism that you would like to see in a linebacker. He also has to work on his coverage skills but should be able to pick this up quickly and easily when he gets to the NFL. Other than that, he’s the consummate linebacker and has Pro Bowl written all over him. Unless he stumbles drastically or someone else really steps up, Curry should be the first defender taken in the 2009 NFL Draft.

By Bryan Dietzler

Kurt Warner: From Grocery Store Bagger to NFL MVP

Kurt Warner: From Grocery Store Bagger to NFL MVP

Being from Iowa, I know about the story of Kurt Warner the guy who went from bagging groceries at a local Hy-Vee store to NFL MVP. His rise to prominence in the NFL is yet another one of those “Cinderella” stories that you hear about so much in the NFL but most players have their moment then flitter away. Warner has remained a constant in NFL stardom and is poised to make yet another positive chapter in his storybook NFL career as his Arizona Cardinals are starting a Super Bowl berth right in the face.

Warner graduated from Cedar Rapids Regis High school and went just up I-380 to school at the University of Northern Iowa. Following his collegiate career, Warner was invited to Green Bay Packers training camp but he didn’t hang on long enough to make the regular season roster so he moved on and played football with the Iowa Barnstormers in the Arena (2) Football League. Warner had a successful career there and ended up in St. Louis playing for the Rams in 1999.

Warner started out as the backup in St. Louis but after starting quarterback Trent Greene was injured in a preseason and Warner stepped in to take over. What happened next can only be considered something that only happens once in a lifetime. Warner and the Rams ended up having the best offense that season as well as one of the best in NFL history. Warner threw for 4353 yards and 41 touchdowns during that season as well and was selected to be the NFL MVP that season. To top it all off, Warner led the rams to a victory in the Super Bowl over the Tennessee Titans and was also named the MVP of that game.

In 2000, Warner was well on his way to another record breaking season but in the middle of that year, he broke his hand and ended up missing most of the season. The Rams failed to make the Super Bowl that season however. In 2001, Warner was back and healthy and he threw for 4830 yards with 36 touchdowns and once again led the Rams to the Super Bowl. However, this time the Rams wouldn’t be as lucky as they lost to the New England Patriots. Warner didn’t have that great of a game as well.

Warner struggled in both 2002 and 2003. In 2003 he suffered a broken finger and wasn’t the same the rest of the season. He also had issues in 2003 that caused him to be replaced and he was cut from the team in June of 2004.

After being courted by several teams Warner landed in New York with the Giants and ended up starting the 2004 season but due to his poor performance, the Giants started using Eli Manning much more and pretty soon Warner was on the outside looking in.

Warner went to the Arizona Cardinals on a one year deal in 2005 and ended up starting that season. He played pretty well and thus earned a three year contract with the Falcons in 2006. He was named the starter at the start of 2006 but was benched in favor of Matt Leinart and didn’t start another game that season.

In 2007, Warner came into a game (against the Baltimore Ravens) in relief of Leinart and almost won the game. After that Warner was brought in to spell Leinart again and he never relinquished his starting role. He was poised to ride the bench again before the start of the 2008 season but as the season came upon them, the Cardinals decided that Warner should start. Warner did very well during this past season and now, after two playoff wins, has his team poised to go to the Super Bowl with a win this Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Warner’s story is sort of a rags to riches, to rags to riches again story but it’s something that you won’t typically find in the NFL. Most guys aren’t given third or fourth chances, much less second chances, and Warner has proven himself resilient and fully capable of coming back time and again. And if he can bring his team into the Super Bowl Warner may earn himself a spot in the Hall of Fame especially since the Cardinals haven’t ever been to a Super Bowl.

And here’s one writer who is hoping that Warner and the Cardinals reach their goal.

Senior Defensive Prospects to Watch

Defensive End:

Mitch King, Iowa- At defensive tackle, King doesn’t have the size (6’2”, 282lbs) to hold up in the middle but would be a perfect fit as a 3-4 DE and is versatile enough to move around along a line in a 4-3. King had a great senior season and has been one of Iowa’s best players his entire four year career and is a main factor in the Hawkeyes stellar run defense. King was named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year. He was also chosen as a first team all-Big Ten player by both the media and coaches, including a unanimous selection by the coaches. King posted 52 tackles, including a team-best 15 ½ for loss this season. Mitch King will most likely be a late round pick but he’s not someone you should overlook.

Zach Potter, Nebraska- Potter hasn’t racked up the big, flashy stats except for one: 5 blocked kicks. That speaks to the athleticism this 6’6” 280lbs DE possesses. Not a pass rusher (8 sacks) but he’s stellar against the run (24 TFL) and has the size and strength to be a base end. He won’t be a star, but he’s the type of role player who makes up the glue of championship teams.

Julius Williams & Cody Brown, Connecticut- Williams and Brown are one of the most dangerous pass rushing duos in the Big East Conference, this season combining for 17 sacks and 27.5 TFL. Neither possesses great size but they have top notch speed and athleticism. Both are project to OLB at the next level although Williams could potentially stay on the ground in the right system.

Defensive Tackle:

Alex Magee, Purdue- While not necessarily a sleeper, Magee is not a household name either. He’s not a pass rusher (14 TFL, 6 sacks in career) and is not going to wow you too often. What he does best though is stay in position and hold his ground. At 6’3”, 295lbs Magee can play any position along the line and best projects as a 3-4 DE. His versatility and weight room numbers will get him drafted fairly early but he does have “workout warrior” concerns.

Sammie Lee Hill, Stillman- Stillman is a tiny liberal arts college in the SIAC, not exactly a pipeline to NFL success. Sammie Lee Hill has good chance to climb into the 3rd or 4th round if he has a great off-season and plays great in the 2009 Cactus All-Star Bowl. He is one of the few true space eaters available at 6’4” 328lbs and deceptive quickness for his size. His level of competition is a big question mark.

Linebacker:

Jason Phillips, TCU- I have and will continue to spout Phillips name as a sleeper prospect. He has been highly decorated and highly productive for TCU. Phillips has legit 4.5 speed and has been a consistent player. Could potentially play all three LB spots and is equally talented on the blitz as he is dropping into coverage.

Brian Toal, Boston College- Injuries have all but killed Toal’s college career as he missed all over 2007 with a torn labrum and nearly all of 2008 with a broken fibula. When healthy, Toal was one of Boston College’s leaders on defense and flashed the athleticism and strength that might have made him a high pick. A high school tailback, if Toal retains some of his abilities and comes back healthy, a team could get a real steal as Toal’s only chance will come as an undrafted free agent.

Adam Leonard, Hawaii- Solomon Elimimian has garnered most of the attention but Adam Leonard has arguably been Hawaii’s best defender in 2008. While he lacks foot speed, Leonard has great instincts and enough size and shed ability to play MLB. His ball skills didn’t show up in 2009 but for his career he has 5 INT and 13 PBU.

Orion Martin, Virginia Tech- A tweener in every sense of the word, Martin has played DE for the Hokies but is too small for that spot in the pros. Unfortunately he’s hasn’t proven fast enough to fully project as a LB. Regardless, Martin is a true lunch pail player who scraps for everything and is as feisty on the field as they come.

Cornerback:

Joe Burnett, Central Florida- A dangerous kick returner and a steady CB, Burnett will not turn heads with his speed but he’s a good on the ball defender who doesn’t give up a lot of big plays. Has 16 INT in his career and will be a great fit for a zone scheme.

Cary Harris, USC- It’s tough to be under the radar playing at USC but Harris has done it mostly because he doesn’t make very many big plays or pick off too many INT. Not to mention the talent around him. Has had a solid 2008 season, earning All-Pac 10 Honorable Mention with 38 tackles, 3 INT and 6 PBU. A late round pick who if given time to develop, could become a dependable nickel back and special teamer.

Safety:

Chip Vaughn, Wake Forest- A tank playing safety, Vaughn stands 6’1”, 215lbs and has been one of Wake Forests top tacklers over the last two years. 2008 wasn’t as great as 2007 but Vaughn is a force as a hitter and is always around the ball. Was a high school WR so he plays the ball well but is much better as a run defender.

Punter:

Jake Richardson, Miami (Ohio)- Has a great leg and has been pretty consistent over his career. Has pretty good accuracy and does a great job of seeing that his kicks are not returnable. Doesn’t get enough hang time but could develop into a great punter over time.
Draftdog owner Robert Bryant beat me to a couple of sleeper prospects that I was going to list: Stryker Sulak, Victor Butler and Cody Brown. Great minds think a like I guess. Of those three, I’m most enamored with Sulak and his potential as a rush LB. A very underrated prospect who will, at minimum, be a great special teamer.

By Daryl Breault

RB Darren Sproles Destroys the Colts

Darren Sproles: Mini Might!

For those of us who watched the San Diego Chargers beat the Indianapolis Colts the other night in an AFC Wildcard match up, you may have noticed someone other than LaDanlian Tomlinson running the ball for San Diego. With Tomlinson on the bench, injured and out of the game, the Chargers had to turn to Sproles to carry the load for the injured Tomlinson and Sproles did very well. He racked up 105 yards and two touchdowns on the ground and 45 yards through the air along with 178 yards in returns to total 328 yards. He was the difference in the game and the reason why the Chargers are advancing in the playoffs.

While most running backs stand about five feet nine inches tall on average Sproles is just five foot six in stature making him one of the shortest running backs in the NFL (take a look at Maurice Jones Drew who is also the same height according to official NFL stats as well) and even though he may be vertically challenged, he is still one the best in the league and definitely a great backup.

Sproles hails from Waterloo, Iowa (very close to where this writer grew up) and not to long after moved to Olathe, Kansas. After a very successful high school career at the high school there in Olathe, Sproles was recruited by Kansas State University to play halfback and had a pretty decent career there playing in 45 games rushing for 4979 yards with 6.1 yards per attempt and 62 touchdowns. When it came time to come into the NFL, there were a lot of people who thought that Sproles would go as high as the sixth round but most likely would go undrafted due to his height. He proved his critics wrong and after a great showing at the NFL Combine he was taken in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft at the 130th position.

In his first season with the Chargers, Sproles sat behind LaDanlian Tomlinson and Michael Turner as third in the order at running back position. He was relegated to returning punts and kickoffs during that season. During the 2006 season, Sproles suffered a broken ankle and missed the entire season. During the 2007 season, Sproles was relegated once again to kickoff and punt returns and did very well at it. His chance to shine finally came in 2008 after Turner left for the Atlanta Falcons. He got several more chances to run the ball and then had his big breakout game in the playoffs just this past week.

Perhaps this proves that size doesn’t really matter sometimes in the NFL. With such a low center of gravity it’s hard for defenders to bring him down and being just five foot six makes it hard to spot when he is moving through the offensive and defensive lines. This can allow him to “squirt” out of holes and get into the open field where he can use his speed to outrun defenders. Sproles does have deceptive speed as many would think that with such short legs he wouldn’t be that fast but he is quick and can move down the field in hurry.

Durability may also be a concern with smaller players but aside from his season ending ankle injury, Sproles has remained healthy during his time with the Chargers.

So don’t count out the short guy when it comes to making it big in the NFL. Along with Sproles, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones Drew, who stands at five feet seven inches tall, has had a pretty successful career in the NFL as well. It’s just more proof that size doesn’t matter that much in the NFL at certain positions any longer.

By Bryan Dietzler

Pass Rushing Outside Linebackers for the 2009 NFL Draft

We all want our team to put pressure on the quarterback. Defense wins championships and the pass sack and even QB pressure can be a game changing event, often leading to fumbles and interceptions. We all know about the sure fire early rounders like Texas’ Brian Orakpo, Northern Illinois’ Larry English and Georgia Tech’s Michael Johnson, but today I am going to highlight a few sleepers that might be available in the middle to later rounds of the 2009 NFL Draft. These prospects are extremely versatile because of their ability to put their hand down and rush the passer or stand up and play as a conventional linebacker. There are plenty of talented juniors this year and I will cover them later after they declare, but for now I will only cover a few seniors.

The first two prospects from Oregon State will likely be late round 2009 NFL Draft Picks, but they are very interesting and could be late round steals with their uncanny ability to get after the quarterback and chase down the ball carrier.

Victor Butler, 6’ 3” 238 lbs. Oregon State
The MVP of the 2009 Sun Bowl, Butler was fantastic in Oregon State’s 3-0 win. In the game he recorded 11 tackles, four quarterback sacks, five tackles for losses, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovered.
For the season he recorded 12 sacks and an amazing 21.5 TFLs. Blazing fast and versatile, in high school (Eisenhower High, Rialto, Ca) he played receiver, safety, defensive end and ran back kicks.

Slade Norris, 6’ 3” 245 lbs. Oregon State
Norris is right up there talent-wise with Butler, he is just as fast and even has better size. Norris recorded 10 sacks and 18.5 TFLs in 2008.

Connor Barwin, 6’ 4” 248 lbs. Cincinnati
This former tight end is lightening in a bottle; he is very athletic and has a lot of upside. This was his first season playing defense and he looks to have found a home. In 2008 he recorded 11 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss (TFL).

Stryker Sulak, 6’ 4” 245 lbs. Missouri
Sulak has the speed to chase down plays from sideline to sideline and can drop back into coverage. Sulak is a very under rated prospect. This year he recorded 10.5 sacks and 15.5 TFLs.

Nick Reed, 6’ 2” 249 lbs. Oregon
The scouts aren’t real high on Reed due his questionable foot speed, but he is a player that just gets the job done time in and time out. Over his last two years he has recorded 25 sacks and 44.5 TFLs. I would say that is consistency.

Phillip Hunt, 6’ 1” 253 lbs. Houston
Hunt is super sleeper, playing for Houston he didn’t get the exposure as some of the others, but did you know he was ranked #2 in the NCAA with 14 sacks this season? His 18.5 TFLs weren’t anything to sneeze at either. Maybe at only 6’ 1” he might not have the height as you would like, but he has immense talent none the less.

Cody Brown, 6’ 2” 244 lbs. Connecticut
Brown is an elite prospect and has played both end and linebacker throughout his career. Brown has been clocked in the 4.65 range and recorded 10 sacks and 15.5 TFLs this season. He could be a 2nd or 3rd round NFL Draft pick this year with a good combine.

Wild Card Weekend NFL Power Poll

The 2008 NFL Playoffs are just about ready to start and it’s time to take a look at where the teams rank heading into the playoffs.

The following is a ranking of all the teams going into the playoffs and will be updated each week before the weekend games begin.

1. Tennessee Titans-The Titans are still the top team until proven otherwise. However, if they end up meeting the Colts at any point, I think that Indianapolis will end up winning that game. Tennessee is just a little banged up heading into the playoffs but by the time they host a game, they should be healthy and ready to go.

2. Indianapolis Colts-I think that the Colts could run the tables in the AFC if they can get past the San Diego Chargers. When this team is healthy, they are one of the best in the NFL and they are on fire heading into the playoffs. With that kind of momentum and the ability that they have on both sides of the ball this team could go all the way to the Super Bowl.

3. New York Giants-The Giants are just barely better than the Carolina Panthers heading into the playoffs and do have some concerns with health but the bye week should be able to help them heal up and be ready for whomever they will meet in a couple of weeks. Still, without the big play receiving threat that they had with Plaxico Burress, the Giants become a little more one dimensional which won’t win them too many playoff games.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers-If the Steelers fail to generate any offense they are going to see an early exit in the playoffs. Their playoff fate also lies on the arm of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger who is also known as the human punching bag. If he gets hurt the Steelers ship might just sink along with their Super Bowl hopes.

5. Carolina Panthers-If the Panthers can shore up their defense a little bit they just might surprise a lot of people and go all the way to the Super Bowl. If the Giants and the Panthers end up meeting at some point in the playoffs, it’s very likely that the winner could represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. This team is very good and if they can play their best they will be in the Super Bowl for sure.

6. Baltimore Ravens-A lot of experts are counting the Ravens out early in the playoffs but this team, which is a surprise to be in the playoffs as it is anyways, could end up being a huge surprise in the playoffs. With the defense that they have, this team is very opportunistic and could win some games in the playoffs if they can keep things together on offense. It’s a much better team than some people give them credit for.

7. Atlanta Falcons-After a surprising season, the Falcons will get a shot at making the Super Bowl thanks to strong play at both the quarterback and the running back position and just enough good defense to get them some wins. This team may end up as a real dark horse depending on who they are matched up against and they play the Cardinals which is a match up they could easily win if they can contain the Cardinals explosive passing attack.

8. Miami Dolphins-The Dolphins are another team that is a shocker when you compare their record from a year ago. While they may be the turnaround team of the year, this team could make a quick exit due to the competition that they will be facing. They have done many good things this season but won’t be in the race for the Super Bowl for too long. Better luck next season.

9. San Diego Chargers-The Chargers got into the playoffs by the skin of their teeth and will face the red hot Colts this weekend. The Chargers have managed to beat the Colts a lot during the past few seasons and seem to have the Colts number as of late. However, with the way the Colts have been playing lately, the Chargers may not win this one and see an early playoff exit.

10. Philadelphia Eagles-The Eagles, at one time with their backs against the wall, have made the playoffs and could win a game or two thanks to the momentum that they have brought with them going into the playoffs. This team is talented on both sides of the ball and have enough to quite possibly get to the Super Bowl providing all the right things happen.

11. Minnesota Vikings-The Vikings got into the playoffs with a lot of luck and need to play flawless football in order to win games and get to the Super Bowl. This isn’t a team that is going to not going to be able to curb mistakes however so look for them to make an early exit from the playoffs but be much better next season.

12. Arizona Cardinals-Although the Cardinals are going into the playoffs with a little momentum but it just might not be enough to earn them a win in the playoffs. They do have a home game and could win in Arizona but they are facing a tough Falcons team that can move the ball through the air and the ground and they might be too much for the Cardinal’s defense to handle.

By Bryan Dietzler