When I heard that Steve got approved for media credentials for the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, and that he was planning on driving down there in order to keep costs down, I saw a great opportunity for a “bucket list” type of fan experience for me.  Since I’m retired and had the time, I offered to drive down with him and be his personal assistant.  He took me up on the offer and on Saturday the 21st, we set off.

Because of a prior commitment that I had, we couldn’t leave Northern Virginia until around 5:oo P.M.  Steve needed to be in Mobile by around 3:00 P.M. on the 22nd to be there for the start of the week’s activities.   Given that the driving time, not counting stops, is over 15 hours, the logistics of making that happen were somewhat mind boggling.  As an aside, the problem for Steve travelling with the old man was that the old man has to make more stops! You know what I mean!

Anyway, we left cold and icy Northern Virginia and headed for Mobile.  We made it to just south of Greenville, South Carolina around 1:30 A.M. when we had to grab a room and got about 3 1/2 hours of sleep.  Back on the road by 8:00 A.M. on the 22nd, we knew we would have to push it to make our deadline.  But in spite of a torrential downpour that slowed us down near Montgomery, Alabama, we made it to balmy Mobile with a half-an-hour to spare.

I dropped off Steve at the Renaissance Riverview Hotel in downtown Mobile, the Senior Bowl Headquarters, so he could pick up his media credentials, attend an introductory press conference and attend a reception hosted by the NFL.  I took off to drive around and kind of get my bearings.  We’re going to be down here for a week and running around to a few activities, so I wanted to quickly familiarize  myself with the area.

Steve is going to be blogging all week about the nuts and bolts of Senior Bowl Week and the game.  He is the expert on the topic – as I said earlier, I’m just along for the ride!  But I did think it might be fun if I kept a journal of our trip and comment on some of my observations or just anything I thought might be interesting, if only to me.  Here are some tidbits from the trip so far:

• It is one looooong drive from Northern Virginia to Mobile!!
• Passed at least 3 huge automobile manufacturing plants right along the interstates on the way down.  Those things appear to go on for miles – for sure the BMW plant in South Carolina did.  And I guess because they seem to be built in more isolated areas, the corporation has to improve or build the road infrastructure to serve the plant.  And apparently, for making that investment, the manufacturer gets to name the roads.  Why else would the road leading from an interstate exit ramp be named Kia Blvd??
• In Georgia and Alabama, not only do they post the speed limit, but they also post a minimum speed limit.  But what happens if you can’t maintain the minimum speed for whatever reason.  I suppose you would get a ticket – but could it truly be called a “speeding” ticket?
• Shortly after you cross into Alabama, you change time zones.  So we fell back an hour.  What really impressed me was that I immediately checked my cell phone and the time had adjusted to the new time.  However, it took me the next 10 miles to figure out how to change the time on my car’s clock.  I hate that!
• Steve will be attending a Media Night event on Monday which will be held at the Pavilion at the site of the USS Alabama Memorial where the ship is docked and serves as a tourist attraction .  I went over there today to check it out.   That is one big ship!  But wasn’t it the Alabama that Quint (sp) from the movie Jaws said he was aboard when it was sunk late in WW II?  What’s it doing in Mobile Bay?  Maybe my recollection is failing me – please feel free to correct me.

Lee Ziemba, G/T:

Where did this come from? All week Ziemba continuously got beat whether he was playing guard or tackle, and suddenly he plays like the All-American he was in college. Ziemba was stellar all game, and held his own versus the best Northern defenders. After a week of watching his draft stock dropping, Ziemba regained a good bit of what he lost with an impressive game.

Leonard Hankerson, WR:

Hankerson built upon a great week, with one of the most impressive performances of yesterday’s game. He caught everything thrown his way, and continuously got separation from the North’s best cornerbacks. Hankerson might not be fastest receiver, but he finds ways to get open and showed great hands and awareness.

Sam Acho, DE/OLB:

Acho had up and down practices this week and didn’t particularly stand out, but he really picked his play up in a game situation. Acho was causing havoc for the the North’s tackles all game long. He showed great quickness and a nose for the ball.

Derrick Locke, RB:

I came into this game thinking the North’s running backs of Roy Helu, DeMarco Murray, and Kendall Hunter were going to be the most impressive, but it ended up being the South’s Derrick Locke that was the runner that stood out. Locke showed great quickness and field vision. He continuously got extra yards when it looked like the play was stopped.

Von Miller, OLB:

Wow, what a game! Miller was all over the field, making big play after big play. Even when he wasn’t making the tackle or the sack, Miller made the play as he would always be around the ball. On multiple occasions his field awareness meant that a lead blocker had to take him on or the ball carrier had to change directions meaning, someone else was able to make the play. Miller sniffed out play after play, and really shut down the North’s offense. He showed all the skills that will make him an elite defender at the next level, and now looks like a lock to go in the top 10 (maybe even top 5).

Rodney Hudson, G/C:

Hudson really had a great game and once again showed that size doesn’t always matter. Hudson has always been considered too small by a number of scouts, but his technique is so good that once the game starts he rarely gets beaten on a play. Hudson kept opening up holes in the running game and anchoring in pass protection, proving that he can hold up against NFL caliber talent.

Phil Taylor, DT:

Taylor had cemented his status as the top Nose Tackle in this draft class with a great weigh in and week of practice, now after his performance in the game he is a near lock to go in the top 50 picks (probably top 40). Taylor got a good bit of penetration all game, and was too much for the North linemen to handle.

Brooks Reed, OLB/DE:

Reed, like a number of South defenders, had a big game and seemed to be constantly in the backfield. The fact that the South defenders had such success is pretty impressive considering the Northern offensive linemen are a pretty talented group and because the defense was so vanilla. Teams aren’t allowed to blitz, or stunt in the Senior Bowl, so the four down linemen (and it has to be four) are the only ones rushing the passer. To get so much pressure without creativity is pretty much unheard of, and speaks volumes about the preparedness of each team.

Christian Ponder, QB:

Ponder didn’t have a great game, but he was impressive dissecting the North’s defense and showed great leadership on the field. He led the first two scoring drives for the South. And while his biggest pass play was a horrible throw that Hankerson made a great catch on, the rest of his throws were much more impressive.

Colin Kaepernick, QB:

Kaepernick didn’t have a great day, but his performance was better than his stats show. His interception was a bad break as it bounced off the receivers hands. Kaepernick showed great elusiveness (except from Von Miller) and bought time with his feet. While the throwing motion is still a bit ugly, Kaepernick threw probably the best ball of the game. He showed all the reasons why he has the potential to be a great quarterback in the future, though he did show that he is still a very raw prospect. For me the most impressive thing about Kaepernick’s performance was that after multiple drives of ineffectiveness from Locker and Stanzi, the North team showed the most signs of life while he was at the helm.

Andy Dalton, QB-

Dalton struggled more and more this week as practice wore on, and really exposed a lot of holes in his game. Coming into this week a lot of people were saying he could be a 2nd or 3rd round quarterback, but now I think he dropped into the 5th-6th round range. He’s a great competitor and a nice leader, but I just don’t see an NFL QB.

Greg McElroy, QB-

McElroy make anyone believe he can be a starting quarterback in the NFL, but I think he had a solid enough week to show he can be a capable backup. While the upside may be minimal, he can offer good value for a team as a late round pickup.

Christian Ponder, QB-

Ponder had the best week among the South quarterbacks, and 2nd best overall. He isn’t great in any one area, but he is capable enough to be a good starter at the next level. Ponder answered the most important questions about his health and arm strength. I think he solidified himself as the 5th quarterback in this class.

Anthony Allen, RB-

Allen for a bigger back, who was used to running out of the option, displayed good vision and acceleration. While his game is a little raw, he displayed a good amount of promise.

Noel Devine, RB-

Devine needs to get bigger to hold up for entire seasons (much less games), but he flashed his big play ability in practice. He has excellent speed and quickness, and if he can get a little stronger while maintaining that speed/quickness, he will play a valuable role in the NFL.

Derrick Locke, RB-

Locke couldn’t really answer questions about his durability this week, but did show great vision and cutbacks.

Leonard Hankerson, WR-

Hankerson got better and better as the week wore on, and really established himself as the top senior receiver. After a shaky start, Hankerson looked a lot crisper in his route running, and showed improved quickness and speed. He is the type of player who doesn’t possess top end wheels, but finds ways to get the most out of what he has. Hankerson also showed much better hands, as well as the ability to adjust to the ball.

Jeremy Kerley, WR-

Kerley showed good speed and the ability to change directions quickly. He has the ability to make defenders miss and should have a good career as a slot receiver.

Courtney Smith, WR-

Smith has excellent size and potential, but was one of the most raw prospects in Mobile. His play is pretty inconsistent in every department (speed, route running, hands, adjusting to the pass), but he shows enough potential to be a late round pick.

Greg Salas, WR-

Salas is a guy who I thought got better each and every practice. There were some concerns on how he would translate to a more pro style system, but he caught the ball well and was perhaps the best route runner on the South.

Kris O’Dowd, C-

O’Dowd is a smart football player, but just isn’t refined and strong enough to be considered a starter. He got really exposed in the one-on-one drills, though he always looked better in the team drills (not great, but capable). He really struggled with anyone lining up over top of him, and looks no better than a backup.

Marcus Gilbert, T-

Gilbert’s week ended early, but I thought he held his own during practice. While he profiles only to the right side, he displayed good strength, and looks like a solid starter there.

Rodney Hudson, G-

The week didn’t start out great for Hudson, but he really improved as the week wore on. He isn’t the biggest or strongest guard, but he gets the job done. He is very quick and gets into defenders early and gains leverage. He has quick hands, which allows him to engage defenders early to slow their momentum. He could still look to add more strength, as he might not be able to hold up against bigger tackles, but otherwise he looks to be a good starter in the NFL.

Danny Watkins, G-

Watkins moved inside this week and he looked like a natural (despite the fact he has only played football for a couple of years). He looks to be an instant starter and a true mauler at the next level.

DeMarcus Love, G/T-

Love has the size and strength to be a very good tackle (likely on the right side) in the NFL, but his technique and awareness are awful. He doesn’t set his feet properly, or use his hands effectively. While the promise is there he is a raw tackle prospect at this point. I’m guessing he falls a couple of rounds come April and is more of a 5th round type.

Clint Boling, G-

While Boling played tackle in college and lined up there some this week, he is obviously a guard at the next level. He works very well in the proverbial ‘phone booth’ and is a tough blocker at the point of attack. He is still a bit raw inside, but should develop as a future starter.

James Carpenter, T-

Carpenter was a guy who looked like he would definitely have to switch inside at the next level, but he more than held his own at tackle in Mobile. Not only did he firmly establish himself as a tackle, but he looks like he is athletic enough to handle the blind side. There is still some rawness to his game, but overall he looked impressive.

Derrick Sherrod, T-

Sherrod is one of the more frustrating prospects in Mobile, as one play he looks like a sure-fire first rounder and then the next you think he needs two years of developmental time. He probably profiles best as a right tackle, though at times he looks like he can handle the left side. He doesn’t dominate, and have that mean streak you like to see in tackles, but he usually gets the job done.

North Team:

1. Colin Kaepernick-

The Nevada signal caller has impressed all week, and a good game tomorrow could raise his stock into the 3rd round range. He might not be the biggest name, but I think he has the biggest upside and talent.

2. Cameron Jordan-

The DE/DT has dominated all week against his fellow Northern teammates, now that he is going up against a Southern O-line that isn’t nearly as good, it could be quite a performance. Jordan has been raising his stock up big time and he a big game could seal a top 10 spot for him.

3. Titus Young-

Young is the most electrifying receiver in this class and if he explodes tomorrow it could raise his stock into the 2nd round range.

4. Nate Solder-

Gabe Carimi is a late scratch so Solder can solidify his spot as the top OT of this class with a big game. He will go up against a couple quality talents so if he stones them, he will hear his name called in the middle of the first round.

5. Kendall Hunter-

Hunter has been the ‘litttle running back who could’ this week and if he has a big game he can answer questions about him being too small to start in the NFL.

South Team:

1. Christian Ponder-

Ponder has had a good week and answered some real questions about his health and arm strength. If he can build on that success with a good Senior Bowl game he could re-enter that 2nd-3rd round mix.

2. Phil Taylor-

Taylor came into the Senior Bowl looking the best he has ever looked and followed that up with a dominate week of practices. Right now he looks to be the top Nose Tackle in this draft class. If he can press the pocket against the North offensive line he could more his stock up to the mid-2nd round range.

3. Rodney Hudson-

Hudson has dealt with questions about whether or not he was big enough to play at the next level, and while he has added some weight it hasn’t stopped those questions from being asked. Hudson has the ability to be an all-pro guard, but it remains to be seen if he can anchor against NFL talent. If Hudson gets the chance to go up against Cam Jordan, and he stops him, it will go a long way to answering that question.

4. Derrek Sherrod-

Sherrod is loved by some scouts as a future LT and others peg him as a guard. If Sherrod can build on a solid week of practice with a good game, he should begin to answer those questions about him.

5. Ahmad Black-

A lot of people don’t think Black can be effective at the next level because he is a 5’9″ safety, but that never stopped Black in college. He’s had a pretty good week so far, and a good game against some quality receivers will help answer those remaining questions.

Colin Kaepernick, QB:

Kaepernick in my opinion is separating himself from the rest of the signal callers, I thought he looked really good on both wed. and thur. and is the best developmental QB in this draft. It might take 2 years, but you will like what you see. He throws the best ball overall in Mobile. The concerns might be there, but I love his intangibles as well. Given his developmental time, I’ll keep him lower in my rankings, but he is a HIGH upside type of guy.

Jake Locker, QB:

Locker really seems to be pressing at the Senior Bowl, there have been multiple missed throws or picks and even some plays where he wasn’t on the same page with everyone. Nothing is a deal breaker, but after a weaker Senior season some questions have arisen.

• Why is he struggling so much against vanilla defenses run at the Senior Bowl?
• Coming from a pro style system, why is he over/under throwing so many routes?
• Coming from a pro style system, why is he having problems under center?
• Why is his accuracy always been an issue?

Those are some big questions he needs answered, and as each day goes by those questions become bigger and bigger.

Ricky Stanzi, QB:

Stanzi didn’t have a great ending to his Senior Bowl week, but I don’t think he hurt himself too much. Sure you might not hear those 2nd round rumors anymore, but I think those were just smoke to begin with.

Kendall Hunter, RB:

Hunter is one of the smaller backs there, but he is also one of the most impressive. Displays great, speed, vision, hands and even did a very good job blocking blitzers. Hunter might not be an every down guy, but if he plays like this he will earn at least a 50-50 split.

DeMarco Murray, RB:

Murray displayed some nice runs from what I saw, but he was down right awful picking up blitzers. That really concerns me at the next level, and a big red flag.

Roy Helu, RB:

Each day I like Helu more and more. He runs so well, and just looks very physical at as well. He should be working his way into the conversation as a 3rd round guy.

Lance Kendricks, TE:

Kendricks has some questions as a blocker, but he handled himself pretty well in that department. He showed good hands and route running the last two days as well. Solid mid-round tight end at this point.

Lee Smith, TE:

Love the guy as a blocker. He won’t stretch the field, but solid hands and capable for underneath and red zone work.

Vincent Brown, WR:

Continues to impress, great all-around week of practice. Great possession/slot receiver type. Won’t be a home run threat, but will convert a ton of first downs. One of the best route runners in this entire draft class.

Austin Pettis, WR:

Pettis I was a bit down on earlier in the week, but has had some good practices these last two days. Using his size better and running crisper routes. Good big possession receiver.

Titus Young, WR:

Keeps looking better and better, consistently getting open, even when its not thrown his way. His speed means he needs to be accounted for on every play.

Dane Sanzebacher, WR:

Sanzebacher was a late add, but he has impressed in his limited work. Clean route runner with good hands. Not going to burn anyone, but will get open.

James Brewer, OT/G:

I still like Brewer overall, and think he is a potential sleeper at Tackle, but he might be better suited for Guard. He has dominated at times, and controls the run well, but sometimes he gets flat out beat in the passing game. Needs to be more consistent overall, solid week for him, but still needs to improve.

Jason Pinkston, OT/G:

I didn’t get to see much of Pinkston, but I think he is a solid RT at the next level, and won’t need much development time. He needs to play meaner, and with better awareness. Saw a couple of plays where he didn’t release into the 2nd level, which prevented a good play from being a great play.

Nate Solder, OT:

I think Solder could grow into being an elite LT, not sure he is enough of a drive blocker to be effective enough in the run game. I also see him struggling some vs. strong DE’s. If he can add some strength I think his 1st round status is warranted, if not I could see him being nothing more than average. He was a mixed bag this week, and I would have expected more dominance.

Gabe Carimi, OT:

Loved what I saw from Carimi this week, never gave up on plays, dominated where ever they put him, LT, RT, G, didn’t matter because Carimi came to play. I see him as the type of guy who can be a RT from day one and maybe shift to LT by year 3 (or he could be an all pro RT for his career).

Anthony Castonzo, OT:

Liked what I saw in Castonzo, doesn’t get beat often and he stays with his blocks. Doesn’t anchor as well as Carimi, but does a pretty good job.

Steve Schilling, OG:

Schilling consistently drew the toughest assignment of the week, Cameron Jordan, and like everyone else he struggled there. He didn’t give up on plays and even when Jordan beat him, he would get a hand on him to slow him down for a fraction of a second. It wasn’t a great week for Schilling, but the competiveness and work ethic were impressive.

Brandon Fusco, C/G:

Fusco continued to improve this week. He got beat by some of the 1st and 2nd rounder guys, but all-in-all he held his own. Not a great week, but pretty good, and enough to solidify a spot in the draft (when you come from Slippery Rock that is saying something).

Check back later for a defensive report and notes on the South.

While I will have my Day 3 observations up later in the day, I wanted to post some links from some of the Senior Bowl coverage out there:

Scott Wright and Shane Hallam of DraftCountdown.com have been daily keeping an eye on which teams are meeting with which players. Now it isn’t a 100% complete list as it’s impossible to keep an eye on everyone, but it still offers great insight. You can see a lot of teams look at players that fit their primary needs, and/or schemes. The Jets are a great example as not only are they meeting with just 3-4 defensive players, but they are meeting with players like Von Miller and Ryan Kerrigan who are expected to be off the board 10-15 picks before the Jets get on the clock. Despite not having a shot at these players, New York has to do their due diligence to see if it would be worth trading up for one of them.

Tony Pauline of TFY Draft Insider has a post up detailing among other things why the Cowboys might avoid OT in round 1, where Colin Kaepernick could go in the draft, and more information about DT Stephen Paea’s injury. The Cowboys being a little afraid of taking an offensive tackle due to the labor situation is interesting, but obviously could end up being a moot point by the time the draft rolls around. I love Kaepernick, but Round 2 does seem a bit high. While it is unfortunate that Paea got injured I think coaches and scouts will like the fact that he toughed it out through practice all day.

Wes Bunting of National Football Post has a blog detailing how the three North quarterbacks have looked so far in practice. I think Bunting has an interesting, and probably very accurate take on the three North signal callers (Jake Locker, Ricky Stanzi, and Colin Kaepernick). He calls Kaepernick the best quarterback in this group at Mobile, but admits his flaws and thinks he is still a late round prospect. He calls Stanzi ‘consistent’, and a mid-round guy with some starting potential. I think he gives Locker a very telling assessment including:

“In all honesty he seems like a reps guy, someone who is going to take a lot of time to learn and develop in an NFL offense and you’re going to need to bring along slowly. The tools are there; there is no doubt about that. But from the shoulders up, I would have severe reservations about selecting this guy as a high pick (first round) and hitching my wagon to him as my franchise quarterback.”

Check back later for some of my thoughts on both the North and the South teams

Yesterday was our first look at the South team on the NFL Network, here are my quick impressions for a number of players:

Andy Dalton, QB:

Dalton did okay, but didn’t do anything that made me think he should be taken in the first 3 rounds.

Greg McElroy, QB:

McElroy definitely has the work ethic you are looking for in a quarterback, but that’s about it. He should get drafted late as a backup type guy.

Christian Ponder, QB:

Ponder didn’t wow me, but looked a little better than his competition. I think his future is that of a 3rd-4th rounder who needs to sit for a couple of seasons to develop. Had a couple of nice throws, but overall didn’t impress.

Noel Devine, RB:

Devine has speed, but weighing in at 160 really hurts his chances of having an NFL career outside of special teams.

Derrick Locke, RB:

Loved the quickness I saw in Locke, again not sure if he can hold up as a starter or even a number two guy, but shows some promise.

Charles Clay, RB/FB:

Clay didn’t have many chances to impress, but I love his size and frame, seems like he can help out a team in a number of areas.

Luke Stocker, TE:

Caught the ball well from what I saw, and held up pretty well as a blocker. Won’t be a star tight end at the next level, but a good number two option.

Leonard Hankerson, WR:

A lot of people out there like what they saw from Hankerson, but I wasn’t overly impressed. Displayed good hands, but not great hands. I thought he ran average routes at best, and didn’t get in and out of his breaks that well. Speed isn’t his strong suit, and he came in under 6’2″ for height. I think some potential is there, but he needs to be a lot cleaner in the route running to be a starter.

Greg Salas, WR:

Really liked what I saw from Salas, he just seems like a smart football player. He made up for his lack of speed with, good hands, route running and adjustment to the ball. I see a poor man’s Jordy Nelson in Salas and think he will be a solid mid-round pickup.

Jeremy Kerley,WR:

Kerley didn’t wow me in any one area, but overall I thought I saw some nice flashes from him. He projects as a slot receiver, but he has the upside to be a pretty good one.

Danny Watkins, G:

Watkins is an animal in the trenches as he stonewalled a number of the South’s best D-linemen. He is a late bloomer (will be 27 next season) and just picked up football a few years ago. While he is a little raw he does look like the type of player who can start from day one. His age will likely hold him down a round or more, but he is one of the best interior linemen in this draft.

Rodney Hudson, G:

Hudson sometimes gets beaten on the first move, but he adjusts well that he doesn’t allow defenders to get completely by him. I like Hudson’s counter attack, and his active hands, but he could use more strength to anchor against bigger DT’s.

Clint Boling, G/T:

Boling lined up at right tackle, despite being a more natural guard and he held his own. Boling was better run blocking, and against bigger stronger linemen, and he struggled against speed rushers. I liked what I saw today, and his versatility should only benefit him going forward.

James Carpenter, T/G:

Carpenter lined up at left tackle today and looked pretty good. He had his moments where he was overmatched, but overall I thought it was a solid performance. Carpenter could kick inside to guard at the next level, but right now I’m thinking he could be an interesting RT prospect.

Marcus Gilbert, T:

Gilbert looked very impressive on the right side today, and never looked overmatched. Gilbert is probably only a good fit for the right side, but has a chance to develop into a good starter there.

DeMarcus Love, G/T:

I really don’t know what to make of Love at this point, I considered him a solid 2nd round RT prospect going into the Senior Bowl, but I think he is falling fast. He didn’t impress at tackle or inside at guard, and overall has looked very exposed. He’s going to need to regain some ground to prove his doubters wrong, but at this point he has probably hurt his draft stock the most.

Lee Ziemba, G/T:

Ziemba struggled some being moved inside to guard, but he showed good effort and has the versatility to play RT as well.

Kris O’Dowd, C:

O’Dowd really didn’t have a great day as he constantly got beat during the 1 on 1 drills. He faired slightly better during team drills, but overall it wasn’t a great performance.

Derrek Sherrod, T:

Sherrod as expected was the best of the bunch. He rarely got beat, and when he did he made defenders fight for it. I think he is an excellent pass blocker, but feel his run blocking is still a work in progress.

Phil Taylor, NT:

Taylor looked very fit and carried his 337 pound weight very well in practice. Not only did he look the part, but he played it as well. He showed good quickness and speed, and was absolutely unstoppable as a bull rusher in 1 on 1 drills. Really should be moving up draft boards into the top of the 2nd round range.

Jarvis Jenkins, DT/DE:

Jenkins who can project inside or outside depending on the scheme, was really impressive today. He fired off the ball quicker than anyone else, and was a constant force in the backfield. Jenkins showed a lot today constantly beating his man off the ball, and is a guy to keep an eye on.

Sam Acho, DE:

Acho consistently showed a good edge rush, but isn’t an elite pass rusher. Once an offensive lineman gets his hands on him he is pretty well locked down.

Allen Bailey, DE/DT:

Bailey came in a little light and its possible that it might have hurt him a bit. Many thought Bailey would be high 280′s low 290′s, but he weighed in at 278. I think Bailey needs to add a bit more strength if he wants to play his style at that weight. Bailey displayed a great bull rush and explosiveness off the ball, but he needs to be bigger and stronger if he wants to continuously drive tackles into the backfield. I overall liked what I saw from Bailey, but he definitely didn’t wow me. Don’t get me wrong I think he needs to develop other pass rushing moves, and counter better when tackles get their hands on him, but he has an impressive bull rush. If he gets a bit stronger and works on countering, he could be a very good 5 technique (3-4 end) in the NFL. For me he has probably slipped slightly, but not too much.

Brooks Reed, OLB/DE:

Reed lined up with the defensive ends, but I think his best position is that of a rush linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Reed really showed himself in pass rush drills, but he was more easily controlled in the run game. Overall I like his skill set, though will be interested to see how he does playing the pass in coverage.

Cedric Thornton, DT/DE:

Thornton is a small school guy, but he really impressed during practice. He attacks the offensive line and gave the interior linemen fits all day. He displays the strength to anchor as well and should fit well in any scheme. It was a good performance against better competition, that could springboard Thornton into a mid-round pick.

Vincent Brown, WR:

Brown is going from after thought to serious mid-round contention. He is catching everything thrown his way, running excellent routes, and adjusts to the ball in the air. If Brown was 4 inches taller, or two-tenths of a second faster he would be a first pick. While he might not have the measurables, Brown has been impressive this week.

Niles Paul, WR:

Paul really impressed me yesterday, and he is a looking like a good mid-round receiver come April. He does well getting in and out of breaks and shows good hands.

Austin Pettis, WR:

Pettis has the size teams are looking for, but I’m not sure if he has what it takes to be a starting NFL receiver. He still needs to work on adjusting to the ball, and using his size to his advantage, to really take his game to that starting level.

Titus Young, WR:

Young is the most explosive receiver out there in Mobile, and he really improved day two, but his footwork still needs a little work. He has slipped a couple of times, but that could just be that he doesn’t have the best cleats for that field. He has game changing ability and should be a play maker at the next level.

Lee Smith, TE:

Didn’t get to see much of Smith catching the ball, but that isn’t his strong suit as he profiles as a dominating blocking tight end. Every time in team drills in both practice sessions he controlled the point of attack. His lack of an offensive threat will make him a late round guy, but his inline blocking skills will be his calling card at the next level.

Roy Helu Jr, RB:

Every time he runs I like this guy more and more. Great combo of strength, speed and agility. He hits the hole hard, and even has the ability to make some people miss with a strong cut. He is going to be the type of back that is a mid-round pick, but ends up as a starter by year 2.

DeMarco Murray, RB:

Murray looks to be the type of back that doesn’t do any one thing great, but everything well. He has had two solid practices and should hear his name called in the 3rd round range.

Kendall Hunter, RB:

Hunter is an explosive player, but is big enough that he can still be an every down running back. He has looked good so far in Mobile and looks like a poor-man’s Ray Rice.

Jake Locker, QB:

Locker is still frustrating at times, and while he seems to take coaching well, and interviews well it is pretty evident that he needs some serious time to still develop. He still misses on a number of balls, and while the ones he hits on are pretty, you can’t expect to miss as much as he has and be a day one starter.

Colin Kaepernick, QB:

Kaepernick still isn’t getting much love in scouting circles, but I’m 100% sold on him. He feels the rush and moves around the pocket very well. He also seems to have the best zip of any of the quarterbacks in Mobile. Like any quarterback he will need some time to develop, as his release is still a work in progress. Other than that, I really don’t have any complaints from what I’ve seen from him at practice.

Ricky Stanzi, QB:

Stanzi continues to look like a very good backup quarterback, who has an outside shot of developing down the road. He manages the offense well, and throws some nice balls, but is a little too inconsistent overall.

Offensive Linemen:

I spent a lot of time highlighting the linemen yesterday so I just wanted to quickly mention a couple of points:

Gabe Carimi and Anthony Castonzo both looked dominate again. Nate Solder flashes that dominate ability, but he doesn’t wow me enough overall. John Moffitt and Brandon Fusco are both maulers in the interior. James Brewer and Jason Pinkston are much better on the right side than the left, though Brewer is a better run blocker and Pinkston a better pass blocker. Kevin Kowalski was Monday’s darling prospect, but got dominated by the defense on Tuesday.

Jeremy Beal, DE:

From what I’ve seen of Beal he is getting controlled way to easily at the point of attack. He looks to be the type of defensive end who will get completely exposed in the run game. I think his stock is falling fast in this draft, and I question whether or not he could stand up in a 3-4.

Christian Ballard, DE/DT:

I don’t know what to make of Ballard. He is extremely quick off the ball and can get upfield, but is too easily controlled when a lineman gets his hands on him. For a guy who weighed in at 288, I’d expect him to be able to offer some push. Right now he might only profile as a 4-3 end, and has to show more strength to be considered for other systems. A lot of promise, but not sure if it will translate is the best way to describe Ballard.

Cameron Jordan, DE:

Jordan is simply a beast, he is completely unblockable and he should be shooting up draft boards. I think he is a lock for a top 15 pick, and could even hear his name called in the top 10. He is a perfect 3-4 defensive end, and looks to be a force at the next level. Jordan stood out as the single most dominating player on either roster today.

Ian Williams, DT:

Williams came in with low expectations, since he missed half the season with an injury, but he has looked good so far in Mobile. He isn’t the biggest or quickest player, but he never gives up and keeps fighting till the whistle. He isn’t the type to be a constant playmaker, but he will make his share of plays and even could be a decent nose tackle at the next level.

Ryan Kerrigan, DE:

Kerrigan has had an up-and-down performance at the Senior Bowl, but the good outweighs the bad, and the best thing I’ve seen is that he seems to adjust well. He doesn’t show the offensive lineman the same look, which should translate better to game situations than practice. He’s not an elite guy, but he will have his share of double digit sack seasons.

The North was the only team shown by NFL Network, but we did get a good first look at their players. Here are some quick thoughts on their first day of work:

Quarterbacks:

Jake Locker:

Jake Locker can be a frustrating prospect, at times he looks like a surefire franchise quarterback at the next level, and at other times he looks pretty lost. Now the franchise moments occur more often then the disappointing moments, but it is a cause for concern that Locker isn’t a bit more polished. Locker showed a strong arm yesterday, but he also was extremely inaccurate at times. Locker is a first round quarterback and if you let him sit for a year and work with him you should be happy with the results, but he still needs to develop.

Ricky Stanzi:

Stanzi was basically as advertised today, a mid-to-late round quarterback, who profiles as a solid backup, that could grow into a starter 4-5 years from now. He is your Matt Cassel, Matt Hasselbeck type of late bloomer. Has nice intangibles and put up good numbers, but won’t ‘wow’ you in anyone area. He was up and down today, but that was to be expected.

Colin Kaepernick:

Kaepernick will get killed in some scouting circles as having a bad throwing motion, and it probably isn’t what I’d call ‘good’, but it is hardly a reason to cross him off your board. Kaepernick comes from an odd option offense, yet has one of the best arms in this draft class. Combine that with his excellent speed, mobility and instincts and you have a very interesting quarterback prospect. He does need to clean up his delivery some, and the center-quarterback exchange will be a process (but he didn’t struggle with it yesterday so that is promising), but looked good overall. He has a ton of upside, but probably won’t hear his name called until the 5th round.

Skill Positions:

Roy Helu Jr. RB:

Helu really impressed me, he came to the Senior Bowl in excellent shape, and showed some nice running ability and good hands. He hit the hole pretty hard and showed an extra gear. He looks to be a good balance of speed and power and should develop into an every down back.

Owen Marecic FB:

Marecic is very athletic for a fullback and should help in both the running, passing and blocking aspects on offense. Good first day for him

Vincent Brown WR:

Brown might be just 5’11″ but he caught anything thrown his way, and showed an ability to make adjustments to the ball. He doesn’t have great size and isn’t a true burner so he is kind of a ‘tweener’, but his catching ability will allow him to be a solid receiver in the NFL.

Titus Young WR:

Young is the home run hitter in this wide receiver group, as he has game changing speed and showed routinely get open down the field. He is still learning on how to make adjustments to the ball and become a more complete player, but he is a weapon who should be drafted early in the 2nd or 3rd round.

Offensive Line:

Nate Solder OT:

Solder had a good first day, and got the primary reps at LT. He wasn’t dominate and relies more on his length and long arms to wall off defenders. At times he doesn’t finish off opponents, and could struggle against strong D-linemen. Didn’t do anything to wow you, but also didn’t do anything really negative as well.

Gabe Carimi OT:

Carimi suffers from the impression that he is a right tackle only. While that is a little short-sided of an evaluation there is a lot of truth to it as well. If given the time Carimi could develop as a left tackle, but he could start from day one as a RT for a number of teams in this league. The Bengals coaches even kicked him inside to guard to show his versatility as well. I think Carimi’s future position is on the right side, but he will be very valuable there for a number of years. He is a big time power blocker, who can engulf defenders, especially in the run game. Very good first day, especially showing the willingness to kick inside and play a position that he isn’t fully comfortable with.

Anthony Castonzo:

Castonzo is another first round quality LT, that had a good first day in Mobile. He really walled off his defender, and showed good lateral movement.

James Brewer OT:

Brewer is a poor man’s Carimi, as a guy who projects best on the right side, and even showed some ability to kick inside if needed. Brewer at times was dominate at the point of attack and really showed a mean streak, that should translate well into the running game. Brewer is working his way into 2nd round consideration and had a very good first day.

Jason Pinkston OT:

Pinkston had an up and down performance, that only looked bad because it was compared to some great ones. In individual drills he held up well, but didn’t dominate. In team drills he didn’t get the chance to showcase his point of attack skills as he was in during Kaepernick when they ran an option and a screen pass. Both times he showed some quickness to get to the 2nd level, but wasn’t a great performance. He probably projects better on the right side, and looks like a firm 3rd round pick (though likely on the later side).

John Moffitt G/C:

Moffitt has that Wisconsin mean streak that makes him an excellent drive blocker. He showed okay feet, though is much better straight ahead and in the phone booth. Like what I saw and he remains an interesting mid-round guy.

Steve Schilling G:

Schilling drew the short straw and got Cameron Jordan in the one-on-one drills, which didn’t end well for the Michigan product. He held up better against some of the lesser competition in team drills, but it wasn’t a great showing for him overall. Still has the potential to be a starting guard down the road, but right now is a late round project.

Kevin Kowalski C:

Kowalski is a guy I figured would be a 7th round draft pick, and while I wouldn’t jump him to far up based on one practice he did look very impressive. He has some of the shortest arms among offensive linemen, but he makes up for it with great strength and anchor. He doesn’t give up ground despite having defenders into his body quickly. Keep an eye on him throughout the week.

Brandon Fusco C/G:

Fusco hails from Division II Slippery Rock, but he held his own against the tougher competition on day one. He has a lot of upside, but he is a little less polished than most of the guys here. Good first day for him, one that keeps him in the late round draft discussion. He is the type of player who is a sleeper now, but should be a starter down the road.

Defensive players:

While my main focus on day one was the offensive players there were a few defenders that stood out. Cameron Jordan and Ryan Kerrigan both had good days against a great offensive line group for the North. Rashard Carmichael made great adjustments to the ball and really had a nice day across the board. Outside of those players, there weren’t many great individual defensive performances. A lot of that has to do with the restrictions in place Senior Bowl week, no blitzing, cover one or cover three coverage, must play a 4-3 style, but a lot also had to do with the talent of the North’s offensive line.

Overall:

Great first day of practice that should only get better when they are in full pads, and gain more familiarity with one another. Check back throughout the week for more thoughts on practices, players and everything else leading up to the draft.

One of the most important weeks leading up to the NFL Draft is Senior Bowl week. While the actual game is interesting, it only represents a small portion of the scouting perspective. The weigh in, daily practices and interview processes all go into the equation as to whether a player is a prospect or a suspect. While the Combine and the Pro Day’s offer much of the same information, the Senior Bowl has one major advantage, practice. Here scouts have 100 of the best senior prospects in college football going up against one another in practice at the behest of NFL coaching staffs. Although juniors aren’t allowed and some players have declined an invitation, due to injury or otherwise, the vast majority of these guys will hear their names called in April. The Senior Bowl practices (not all of them) are televised on the NFL Network, and I will be providing some recaps and highlights from what I see. In addition to my analysis, I suggest you checkout a number of sources from draftniks covering the week live.

Rob Rang and Chad Reuter of CBS Sports

Tony Pauline of TFY Draft

Scott Wright and Shane P. Hallam of DraftCountdown.com

Wes Bunting of National Football Post

Todd McShay and Company (subscription required) of ESPN Scouts Inc.

Check back later for my thoughts on the first practice!