Fanspeak: NFL Draft

Pros: Big, physical safety that excels as a hitter. Excellent when in the box and coming up in run support. Good speed, should be able to run with most tight ends. Solid cover skills overall. Experience at both safety spots and was asked to do a variety of things in college. Great in pursuit and … More »

Pros: Prototypical NT size fits well in 2-gap systems. Really tough to block one-on-one vs the run. Will make some plays in the backfield, including some pressures and sacks. Has really strong hands and will shed blocks. Typically plays with good leverage which makes him very tough to block.   Cons: Dominated weaker competition padding … More »

Cornerback: 1. Trae Waynes, Michigan State Good press CB with the speed to turn and run with starting NFL CBs. Rarely had safety help and still was extremely effective. Gets to top speed quickly with good closing speed. Makes WRs work for it. Grabs opposing WRs too much and could be called for penalties in … More »

Defensive Line 1. Leonard Williams, DE, USC Only elite player in the draft. Tremendous upper and lower body strength with the first step and athletic ability to give offensive lines fits. Gets up to speed so quick and has solid pass rush moves. Run and Pass stuffer. Sometimes can play too high and get caught … More »

Pros: Long, athletic frame that is ideal for edge rushers. Really good speed and closing burst, that allows him to win on the outside. Appears to have the agility and quickness to play in space. Versatile rusher, lined up all over the field for Nebraska. Quick, powerful hands that he uses at a high level, … More »

Todd Gurley’s medical re-check from the Combine came back looking good and generally the reports of his recovery from a November ACL tear have been pretty positive. The good news on his knee, has kept Gurley in the mix to be the top running back selected in this draft and could even go in the … More »

Philip Rivers remains one of the top 10 quarterbacks in the NFL, and has played extremely well over the past two seasons. Despite that level of talent, it is sounding more and more that he won’t be suiting up next season for the San Diego Chargers next season. Rivers is under contract for one more … More »

1. Brandon Scherff, OG, Iowa Better Guard than OT. Great functional strength and technique allows him to be a dominant run blocker and solid pass blocker inside. Should be an instant starter with Pro Bowl potential. 2. Lael Collins, OT, LSU Mammoth with functional strength and the feet to play offensive tackle. Could be elite … More »

Pros: Devastating first step and can get the edge at an elite level. Has a nose for the quarterback, and has a great closing burst when he’s in a position to make a play. Very disruptive in the backfield even when he’s not getting the sack. Good hand usage at times to knock down opposing … More »

1. Maxx Williams, Minnesota Strong upper and lower body. Has soft hands and secures the ball cleanly. Good athleticism and strength in open space. Willing blocker with room to develop. Powerful after the catch and picks up extra yardage after contact. Does not have elite athletic skills. May not be the red zone threat his … More »