Footballguys.com: Fantasy Football 2009 Strategy Guide

Rookie Review
QUARTERBACKS
by Sigmund Bloom
1. Matthew Stafford - Detroit Lions - 6’2, 225
Scouting Report: Stafford has the right skill set to weather
the storm around a rebuilding team and take advantage of the
immense talent of Calvin Johnson. He uses his athleticism to
keep the play alive and he’ll take the big hit to make the play.
His arm strength is remarkable, giving him the ability to make
50-yard throws off his back foot. He’ll have to minimize the
stretches of inconsistent mechanics and decision making that
plagued him at Georgia.
2009 Outlook: Lions want to ease him in; probably won’t
start until late in the season
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-10 QB
NFL Comparison: Jay Cutler & Brett Favre, frustrating
moments included
2. Mark Sanchez - New York Jets - 6’2, 227
Scouting Report: The Jets traded up to snag Sanchez
because of his arm, smooth mechanics, and tremendous intangibles. He’s considered a natural leader on and off the field, and
he can throw well on the run rolling to either side of the field.
Sanchez will need to develop pocket presence and overcome
questions about lack of experience (only 16 starts at USC).
2009 Outlook: Likely starting from day one
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-15 QB
NFL Comparison: Tom Brady when he’s good; Rex
Grossman when he’s not
3. Josh Freeman - Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 6’6, 248
Scouting Report: NFL teams can’t resist an athletic, statuesque QB with a big arm, and Freeman fits the bill. He’s a
competitive gamer who is hard to bring down, but he also failed
to top 60 percent accuracy or lead his team to a winning record
last year in a conference not exactly known for its defense.
2009 Outlook: Will compete with Luke McCown and Byron
Leftwich to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-25 QB with bust risk
NFL Comparison: JaMarcus Russell without the college
heroics
throwing on the move and always a threat to hurt a defense with
his legs.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Chad Henne to backup Chad
Pennington
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-25 QB but may not stay at the
position
NFL Comparison: Seneca Wallace with an arm
DRAFTED QUARTERBACKS
Pos
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
QB
Pick
1.01
1.05
1.17
2.12
4.01
5.15
5.35
6.01
6.05
6.23
6.28
7.23
Player
Stafford, Matthew
Sanchez, Mark
Freeman, Josh
White, Pat
McGee, Stephen
Bomar, Rhett
Davis, Nate
Brandstater, Tom
Teel, Mike
Null, Keith
Painter, Curtis
Edelman, Julian
Ht
6’2
6’2
6’6
6’0
6’3
6’2
6’1
6’5
6’3
6’3
6’3
5’11
Wt
225
227
248
197
225
225
226
220
225
222
225
195
College
Georgia
Southern Cal
Kansas State
West Virginia
Texas A&M
Sam Houston St.
Ball State
Fresno State
Rutgers
West Texas AM
Purdue
Kent State
Team
Lions
Jets
Buccaneers
Dolphins
Cowboys
Giants
49ers
Broncos
Seahawks
Rams
Colts
Patriots
RUNNING BACKS
by Cecil Lammey
1. Knowshon Moreno – Denver Broncos – 5’11, 208 lbs.
Scouting Report: The Broncos had Knowshon Moreno
ranked very high on their draft board, and they are expecting
him to be the feature back for their offense. Denver has added
several RBs this offseason, but none are as versatile or athletic
as Moreno. The comparison that is tossed around most when
talking about Moreno is Clinton Portis, and it is an accurate
one. Like Portis, Knowshon has outstanding vision and the
quickness to get to and through the hole in a hurry. He doesn’t
have ideal bulk or speed for an every down RB, but Moreno is
a game breaker and doesn’t require a ton of carries to make big
plays.
2009 Outlook: The Broncos will use him on all three downs
with 20+ touches per game.
Dynasty Outlook: He is a special back that could be Top 5
in a few years.
NFL Comparison: Clinton Portis with a little less speed.
4. Pat White - Miami Dolphins - 6’0, 197
Scouting Report: After his terrific Senior Bowl and combine, you knew some team was going to take the athletic fouryear starter a round or two earlier than expected, and it makes
sense that it would be wildcat reviving Dolphins. White is short
and slight for an NFL QB, but he has an NFL arm. He’s great at
2. Donald Brown – Indianapolis Colts – 5’10, 210 lbs.
Scouting Report: The Colts have realized that Joseph Addai
works best when he’s not the feature back and thus selected
Donald Brown with the 27th pick in the first round of the 2009
NFL Draft. Brown is a compact runner, with a high-energy
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playing style. When his shoulders are square to the line of
scrimmage, he can break through to the second level, and he
has deceptive speed in the open field. It might not be long
before Donald Brown is the Colts’ #1 RB and Joseph Addai is
relegated to a change-of-pace role.
2009 Outlook: Will compete with Joseph Addai for carries.
Dynasty Outlook: In this offense, Top 5-10 for many years.
NFL Comparison: Slightly less elusive Thurman Thomas
3. Chris Wells – Arizona Cardinals – 6’1, 237 lbs.
Scouting Report: Chris Wells may have the highest ceiling
of any back in this draft, but questions abound about his desire
and work ethic. The Cardinals needed to get a premier back in
this draft as Tim Hightower is not the fulltime answer. Wells
has outstanding vision, the power to run between the tackles,
and can hurdle defenders in the open field. He is a patient,
downhill runner that can spot cutback lanes before they open,
and he has the elite athleticism to change direction without losing much momentum. There are durability concerns as Wells
seemed to be constantly dinged up at Ohio State.
2009 Outlook: Will be the Cardinals starting RB, but may
lose scoring opportunities to Tim Hightower.
Dynasty Outlook: If healthy and motivated, he will take
advantage of defenses keyed on the passing game and could be
a Top 10 RB for a few years.
NFL Comparison: Jamal Lewis with less power and more
elusiveness.
4. LeSean McCoy – Philadelphia Eagles – 5’11, 210 lbs.
Scouting Report: The Eagles need to keep Brian Westbrook
fresh for the playoffs and want to groom an eventual replacement for him. LeSean McCoy is a perfect fit for their needs.
He gets to top speed in a hurry and can blow by - or through
- unsuspecting defenders. A natural hands-catcher, McCoy
makes for a great checkdown receiver and uses his pad level
plus his forward lean to maximize the yardage gained after contact. When he hits the open field he has so many moves that
he can sometime run out of control, which leads to him getting
tackled instead of making an even bigger play.
2009 Outlook: A nice change of pace for Brian Westbrook.
Dynasty Outlook: Will be groomed to replace Westbrook
and could have five or more Top 10 seasons.
NFL Comparison: Felix Jones with less pop at the point of
attack.
5. Shonn Greene – New York Jets – 5’11, 235 lbs.
Scouting Report: A RB’s greatest attribute is his feet, and
Greene has outstanding footwork when running through trash
at the line of scrimmage. He is a punishing runner that gets
stronger as the game goes on, and he constantly wears down the
defense. On many of his carries it takes more than one defender to bring him down as he loves to fight for extra yardage.
Greene is not as powerful as he should be and tends to lean into
defenders rather than strike them. Weight might become an
issue for Greene if he’s not monitored closely.
2009 Outlook: Could start if Thomas Jones leaves New
York, but more than likely will have to serve as a backup this
year.
Dynasty Outlook: He could be the nice power option in a
RBBC with Leon Washington.
NFL Comparison: Rudi Johnson with better instincts.
6. Gartrell Johnson – San Diego Chargers – 5’11, 222 lbs.
Scouting Report: With the loss of Michael Turner in
2008, the Chargers were left without a power runner behind
LaDainian Tomlinson. Gartrell Johnson is an aggressive runner
that loves to pound defenders play after play. He is very patient
and does a good job of allowing his blocks to develop in front
of him. Using a good pad level, leg drive, and low center of
gravity Johnson knows how to find his way to the endzone. He
does not have elite speed, however, and can let plays swallow
him up when the lane is not there.
2009 Outlook: Will be the backup to Tomlinson and give
him a breather when necessary.
Dynasty Outlook: Could be the starter for San Diego after
Tomlinson retires and be the lead back in a committee.
NFL Comparison: Marion Barber without the receiving
ability.
7. Andre Brown – New York Giants – 6’0, 224 lbs.
Scouting Report: The Giants lost Derrick Ward in free
agency and wanted to add another piece to the backfield in the
2009 NFL Draft. Andre Brown is an aggressive runner, and he
doesn’t like to go down without a fight. He is also a consistent
receiver out of the backfield, so he’s more than just a 2-down
back. In addition to his natural hands, he is also very good in
pass protection which is extremely important for young backs
looking for playing time. Injuries are a concern, as he’s had
two surgeries on his left foot, and Brown does take some time
to get to full speed.
2009 Outlook: Will compete for the #3 RB spot behind
Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw.
Dynasty Outlook: Has the power and receiving ability to be
the lead back in a 2- or 3-headed committee.
NFL Comparison: Kevin Smith with a better stiff arm and
injury concerns.
8. Cedric Peerman – Baltimore Ravens – 5’10, 210 lbs.
Scouting Report: The Baltimore Ravens have a punishing ground game and like to keep their RB corps stacked with
effective runners and receivers. Cedric was known as “Mr.
Versatility” during his time with the Cavaliers. A natural leader, Peerman’s work ethic is contagious to his teammates. He
is quick to the hole and has been known to bust long runs off
from time to time. Durability is a concern, and scouts question
whether ball security will be an issue as well because Peerman
has very small hands.
2009 Outlook: Will be the backup to Willis McGahee,
Le’Ron McClain, and Ray Rice.
Dynasty Outlook: Could become a starter and possibly post
a few Top 10 seasons because of his versatility.
NFL Comparison: Chester Taylor with more speed but less
moves.
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R O O KI E R EVI EW
DRAFTED RUNNING BACKS
Pos
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
FB
RB
RB
FB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
RB
Pick
1.12
1.27
1.31
2.21
3.01
3.10
4.11
4.28
4.29
4.34
5.09
5.33
5.37
6.12
6.19
6.22
6.36
7.02
7.03
7.06
7.31
7.41
Player
Moreno, Knowshon
Brown, Donald
Wells, Chris
McCoy, LeSean
Greene, Shonn
Coffee, Glen
Goodson, Mike
Fiammetta, Tony
Brown, Andre
Johnson, Gartrell
Johnson, Quinn
Summers, Frank
Ringer, Javon
Peerman, Cedric
Brown, Aaron
Davis, James
Scott, Bernard
Ogbonnaya, Chris
Williams, Javarris
Vakapuna, Fui
Stephens-Howling, LaRod
Jennings, Rashad
Ht
5’11
5’10
6’1
5’10
5’11
6’0
6’0
6’0
6’0
5’10
6’1
5’9
5’9
5’10
6’1
5’11
5’10
6’0
5’10
5’11
5’7
6’1
Wt
217
210
235
198
227
209
208
245
224
219
246
241
205
216
196
218
200
220
223
244
180
231
College
Georgia
Connecticut
Ohio State
Pittsburgh
Iowa
Alabama
Texas A&M
Syracuse
N. C. St.
Colorado State
LSU
UNLV
Michigan State
Virginia
TCU
Clemson
Abilene Christian
Texas
Tennessee St.
BYU
Pittsburgh
Liberty
Team
Broncos
Colts
Cardinals
Eagles
Jets
49ers
Panthers
Panthers
Giants
Chargers
Packers
Steelers
Titans
Ravens
Lions
Browns
Bengals
Rams
Chiefs
Bengals
Cardinals
Jaguars
WIDE RECEIVERS
by Sigmund Bloom
1. Michael Crabtree - San Francisco 49ers - 6’2, 215
Scouting Report: Unlike most WRs that go in the Top 10 of
the draft, Crabtree isn’t a burner nor does he tower over most
NFL corners. What he does do is attack the ball in the air like a
DB and run angry after the catch like an RB. His ball skills and
hands are so good that it seems like he was born to play WR.
He’ll have to get over a broken foot and character concerns to
fulfill his potential.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Josh Morgan and Brandon
Jones to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-15 WR
NFL Comparison: Shorter Brandon Marshall
2. Hakeem Nicks - New York Giants - 6’1, 212
Scouting Report: The Giants have found their future #1 WR
in Hakeem Nicks. He has extraordinarily soft hands that allow
him to make circus catches, and he’s surprisingly elusive and
strong running after the catch. Nicks plays with a “my ball”
mentality that should help him overcome a lack of great speed
or size.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Domenik Hixon to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-25 WR
NFL Comparison: Thinner Dwayne Bowe
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-25 WR with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Bigger and faster Chris Chambers
4. Jeremy Maclin - Philadelphia Eagles - 6’0, 198
Scouting Report: Maclin will bring world-class speed and
decent size to an offense already stocked with burners at wide
receiver. He’ll be one of the most dangerous return threats in
the league. He’ll need to learn the route tree because he played
in a spread offense at Mizzou.
2009 Outlook: In on passing downs and returns; pushing
Kevin Curtis soon
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-40 WR
NFL Comparison: Bigger Ted Ginn
5. Percy Harvin - Minnesota Vikings - 5’11, 192
Scouting Report: Few college players were more dangerous
with the ball in their hands than Harvin, but even fewer had his
terrible off the field reputation. Harvin is a work in progress
as a wide receiver, but he runs like Chris Johnson in the open
field.
2009 Outlook: Wildcat QB and novelty player with some
work in 3- and 4-WR sets
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-40 WR with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Laveranues Coles
6. Brian Robiskie - Cleveland Browns - 6’3, 209
Scouting Report: Robiskie plays exactly the way you’d
expect a WR coach’s son would. He runs crisp routes, catches
everything thrown his way, and uses his big frame naturally to
block out. He won’t win footraces or break ankles in the open
field, but Robiskie should be a terrific #2 possession receiver.
2009 Outlook: Competing with a host of players to start
opposite Braylon Edwards
Dynasty Outlook: Top 20-50 WR
NFL Comparison: Muhsin Muhammad with less strength
7. Kenny Britt - Tennessee Titans - 6’3, 218
Scouting Report: Britt is big, fast, strong, and a whale of a
blocker for a wide receiver. He doesn’t routinely hands-catch
and lets the ball get to his body too often, but he still is the best
talent the Titans have had at wide receiver since Derrick Mason
left town.
2009 Outlook: Competing to start and push Nate Washington
to the slot
Dynasty Outlook: Top 25-50 WR
NFL Comparison: Bigger and stronger Derek Hagan before
his hands turned into skillets
8. Jarett Dillard - Jacksonville Jaguars - 5’10, 191
3. Darrius Heyward-Bey - Oakland Raiders - 6’2, 210
Scouting Report: Everyone laughed at Al Davis when he
selected Heyward-Bey #7, but the Raiders could have the last
laugh. His 4.3 speed is legit, and his ability to track and adjust
to the deep ball will make him lethal when JaMarcus Russell
lets one fly. He has inconsistent hands and his game needs some
polish, but Heyward-Bey will be one of the best deep threats in
the league.
2009 Outlook: In on passing downs; pushing Javon Walker/
Johnnie Lee Higgins soon
Scouting Report: Dillard fell to the fifth round because he
doesn’t run in the 4.4s, and he’s less than six feet tall. He’ll be
one of the steals of the draft because his precise routes will create separation and his pillow soft hands and 40+ inch vertical
will allow him to make plays that most WRs can’t.
2009 Outlook: Competing for WR2 with Mike Walker and
Mike Thomas
Dynasty Outlook: Top 25-75 WR
NFL Comparison: Slower Greg Jennings
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DRAFTED WIDE RECEIVERS
Pos
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
WR
Pick
1.07
1.10
1.19
1.22
1.29
1.30
2.04
2.18
3.18
3.19
3.20
3.21
3.23
3.27
3.35
4.07
4.08
4.24
4.27
5.04
5.05
5.08
5.24
6.02
6.21
6.33
7.15
7.20
7.24
7.28
7.34
7.42
7.43
7.44
Player
Ht
Heyward-Bey, Darrius 6’2
Crabtree, Michael 6’2
Maclin, Jeremy
6’0
Harvin, Percy
5’11
Nicks, Hakeem
6’1
Britt, Kenny
6’3
Robiskie, Brian
6’3
Massaquoi, Mohamed 6’2
Williams, Derrick 6’0
Tate, Brandon
6’0
Wallace, Mike
6’0
Barden, Ramses 6’6
Turner, Patrick
6’5
Butler, Deon
5’10
Iglesias, Juaquin 6’1
Thomas, Mike
5’8
Hartline, Brian
6’2
Murphy, Louis
6’2
Collie, Austin
6’1
Knox, Johnny
6’0
McKinley, Kenny 6’0
Dillard, Jarett
5’10
Foster, Brooks
6’1
Lawrence, Quinten 6’0
Gibson, Brandon 6’1
Edison, Dominique 6’2
Byrd, Demetrius 6’0
Johnson, Manuel 5’11
Stroughter, Sammie 5’9
O’Connell, Jake
6’3
Mitchell, Marko
6’4
Kinder, Derek
6’0
Brown, Freddie
6’3
Underwood, Tiquan 6’1
Wt
210
215
198
192
212
218
209
210
194
183
199
229
223
182
210
195
195
203
200
185
189
191
211
184
206
204
199
189
189
250
218
202
215
184
College
Maryland
Texas Tech
Missouri
Florida
North Carolina
Rutgers
Ohio State
Georgia
Penn State
North Carolina
Mississippi
Cal Poly
Southern Cal
Penn State
Oklahoma
Arizona
Ohio State
Florida
BYU
Abilene Christian
South Carolina
Rice
North Carolina
McNeese State
Washington St.
Stephen F Austin
LSU
Oklahoma
Oregon State
Miami (OHIO)
Nevada
Pittsburgh
Utah
Rutgers
Team
Raiders
49ers
Eagles
Vikings
Giants
Titans
Browns
Browns
Lions
Patriots
Steelers
Giants
Dolphins
Seahawks
Bears
Jaguars
Dolphins
Raiders
Colts
Bears
Broncos
Jaguars
Rams
Chiefs
Eagles
Titans
Chargers
Cowboys
Buccaneers
Chiefs
Redskins
Bears
Bengals
Jaguars
TIGHT ENDS
by Sigmund Bloom
as a receiver. He’s not a supreme athlete, but he was still underused in the passing game at Oklahoma State.
2009 Outlook: Should start from day one
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-20 TE
NFL Comparison: Daniel Graham with more reliable mitts
4. Shawn Nelson - Buffalo Bills - 6’5, 240
Scouting Report: Nelson spent a lot of time split out wide at
Southern Miss, so his prowess as a blocker was a pleasant surprise at the Senior Bowl. He’s a fluid athlete with a long frame,
and he’s terrific at catching the ball outside of his frame.
2009 Outlook: Will compete to start on opening weekend
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-20 TE
NFL Comparison: Shorter Marcedes Lewis
5. Chase Coffman - Cincinnati Bengals - 6’6, 250
Scouting Report: He won’t be useful as an inline TE, or
even an H-back, but Coffman’s hands, ball skills, and toughness
catching balls over the middle are tops in this unique class. He
is coming off a broken foot and will need to overcome a lack of
burst off the line and speed in his routes.
2009 Outlook: Pushing Ben Utecht for snaps on passing
downs
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-20 TE with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Less athletic Todd Heap
6. Cornelius Ingram - Philadelphia Eagles - 6’4, 245
Scouting Report: Like most Florida players, Ingram is a terrific athlete and playmaker, but what he did in Gainesville is
nothing like what he’ll be asked to do in the NFL. He’s coming
off an ACL tear, but he should be a good fit in the Philly passing offense once he’s healthy.
2009 Outlook: Pushing Brent Celek for snaps on passing
downs
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-20 TE with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Randy McMichael
1. Travis Beckum - New York Giants - 6’3, 239
Scouting Report: The Giants got themselves a supersized
slot receiver at the end of the third round. Beckum has eerie
accurate ball tracking and runs strong after the catch. He’s coming off a broken leg, and he’ll need to be more consistent in his
routes and off the field work ethic to hit it big in the Big Apple.
2009 Outlook: Worked into passing sets as the year goes on
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-15 TE
NFL Comparison: Dustin Keller
2. Jared Cook - Tennessee Titans - 6’5, 246
Scouting Report: The most athletically gifted of this strong
class of receiving TEs, Cook runs, leaps, and adjusts to the ball
in the air like a wide receiver. Questions about his coachability and one-dimensional game caused him to fall to the third
rounds.
2009 Outlook: Mixed in on passing downs
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-15 TE with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Slightly less freakish Vernon Davis
3. Brandon Pettigrew - Detroit Lions - 6’6, 263
Scouting Report: Pettigrew is like a third offensive tackle as
a run and pass blocker, and he has a big frame and great hands
DRAFTED TIGHT ENDS
Pos
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
Pick
1.20
2.32
3.25
3.34
3.36
4.21
4.22
5.13
5.16
5.17
5.25
6.07
6.11
6.29
6.35
7.12
7.32
7.39
7.46
Player
Ht
Pettigrew, Brandon 6’5
Quinn, Richard
6’4
Cook, Jared
6’5
Coffman, Chase 6’6
Beckum, Travis
6’3
Nelson, Shawn
6’5
Hill, Anthony
6’5
Drew, Davon
6’4
Casey, James
6’3
Ingram, Cornelius 6’4
Nalbone, John
6’4
Miller, Zach
6’4
Pascoe, Bear
6’5
Myers, Brandon 6’4
Phillips, John
6’5
Williams, Eddie
6’1
Johnson, David
6’2
Morrah, Cameron 6’3
Gronkowski, Dan 6’6
Wt
263
264
246
244
243
240
262
256
246
245
251
233
251
250
251
239
260
244
255
College
Team
Oklahoma State Lions
North Carolina Broncos
South Carolina Titans
Missouri
Bengals
Wisconsin
Giants
Southern Miss Bills
N. C. St.
Texans
East Carolina Ravens
Rice
Texans
Florida
Eagles
Monmouth (NJ) Dolphins
Nebraska-Omaha Jaguars
Fresno State
49ers
Iowa
Raiders
Virginia
Cowboys
Idaho
Redskins
Arkansas State Steelers
California
Seahawks
Maryland
Lions
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R O O KI E R EVI EW
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN
by Sigmund Bloom
1. Brian Orakpo - Washington Redskins - 6’3, 263
Scouting Report: Orakpo is a weight room beast, maintaining a bodybuilder frame and strength, but with great first quickness and killer instinct. He’ll need to develop a repertoire of
pass moves and learn to play LB on run downs, but he can be
an instant game changer on third down.
2009 Outlook: SLB on 1st/2nd down, DE on 3rd down
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-40 LB, Top 7-15 DE
NFL Comparison: Shawne Merriman without steroid questions
2. Everette Brown - Carolina Panthers - 6’2, 256
Scouting Report: Sometimes a player can’t outrun the
‘tweener label on draft day. Brown fell to the second round
despite Top 10 pick type production. He was considered too
small to play 4-3 DE and not agile enough to play 3-4 OLB. It
won’t stop him from making plays with regularity in the NFL.
2009 Outlook: Situational pass rusher
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-25 DE
NFL Comparison: James Harrison
3. Michael Johnson - Cincinnati Bengals - 6’7, 266
Scouting Report: The Bengals landed the next Julius
Peppers/Mario Williams - well, at least on one out of every four
or five plays. Johnson has elite athleticism, a lightning quick
first step, and a basketball player’s vertical and wingspan. If his
motor and effort become more consistent, he’ll be one of the
steals of the draft.
2009 Outlook: Situational pass rusher and maybe some OLB
duty
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-25 DE with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Mario Williams, when he was back at
NC State
4. Connor Barwin - Houston Texans - 6’2, 249
Scouting Report: Barwin led the Big East in sacks during
his first season as a DE after playing TE, the position he was
asked to play for most of the week at the Senior Bowl. He has
the athleticism to play some LB and catch some short yardage
TDs a la Mike Vrabel.
2009 Outlook: Situational pass rusher and short yardage TE
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-30 DE
NFL Comparison: More athletic Mike Vrabel
5. Aaron Maybin - Buffalo Bills - 6’4, 256
Scouting Report: Being a one-trick pony can get you drafted
at #11, provided that one trick is having the best first step of
any pass rusher in the draft. Maybin bulked up for the pre-draft
workouts, but he was subbed out on run downs at times at Penn
State and he’ll need to mature physically before he can be a
three down end.
2009 Outlook: Situational pass rusher
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-30 DE
NFL Comparison: Robert Mathis
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN Drafted In First Four Rounds
Pos
DE
DT
DE
DE
DE
DT
DT
DT
DE
DE
DE
DT
DE
DT
DE
DT
DE
DE
DE
DT
DT
DL
DT
DE
DE
DT
DT
DE
DE
DE
DE
DT
Pick
1.03
1.09
1.11
1.13
1.16
1.24
1.32
2.08
2.11
2.14
2.20
2.24
2.25
2.30
2.31
3.03
3.04
3.06
3.07
3.08
3.17
3.29
4.03
4.05
4.10
4.13
4.15
4.17
4.20
4.25
4.26
4.36
Player
Jackson, Tyson
Raji, B.J.
Maybin, Aaron
Orakpo, Brian
English, Larry
Jerry, Peria
Hood, Evander
Brace, Ron
Brown, Everette
Barwin, Connor
Veikune, David
Moala, Fili
Kruger, Paul
Marks, Sen’Derrick
Brown, Cody
Magee, Alex
Gilbert, Jarron
Johnson, Michael
Shaughnessy, Matt
Knighton, Terrance
Miller, Roy
Irvin, Corvey
Scott, Dorell
Melton, Henry
Butler, Victor
Martin, Vaughn
Hill, Sammie Lee
Moore, Kyle
Williams, Brandon
Sidbury Jr., Lawrence
Norris, Slade
Taylor, Terrance
Ht
6’4
6’2
6’4
6’3
6’2
6’2
6’3
6’3
6’2
6’4
6’2
6’4
6’4
6’2
6’2
6’3
6’5
6’7
6’5
6’3
6’1
6’3
6’3
6’3
6’2
6’3
6’4
6’5
6’5
6’2
6’2
6’0
Wt
295
337
249
263
274
299
300
330
256
256
257
305
263
306
244
298
288
266
266
321
310
301
312
260
248
331
329
272
252
266
232
306
College
LSU
Boston College
Penn State
Texas
Northern Illinois
Mississippi
Missouri
Boston College
Florida State
Cincinnati
Hawaii
Southern Cal
Utah
Auburn
Connecticut
Purdue
San Jose State
Georgia Tech
Wisconsin
Temple
Texas
Georgia
Clemson
Texas
Oregon State
W. Ontario (CAN)
Stillman
Southern Cal
Texas Tech
Richmond
Oregon State
Michigan
Team
Chiefs
Packers
Bills
Redskins
Chargers
Falcons
Steelers
Patriots
Panthers
Texans
Browns
Colts
Ravens
Titans
Cardinals
Chiefs
Bears
Bengals
Raiders
Jaguars
Buccaneers
Panthers
Rams
Bears
Cowboys
Chargers
Lions
Buccaneers
Cowboys
Falcons
Raiders
Colts
LINEBACKERS
by Sigmund Bloom
1. Aaron Curry - Seattle Seahawks - 6’2, 254
Scouting Report: The closest thing to a can’t-miss pick in
this draft, Curry is big, athletic, strong, and versatile. He can
rush the passer, drop into coverage (and have the hands to get
the INT), and flash sideline to sideline range.
2009 Outlook: Starting OLB
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-20 LB
NFL Comparison: Post-achilles blowout Julian Peterson
2. Rey Maualuga - Cincinnati Bengals - 6’2, 249
Scouting Report: Rey took a tumble because of character
and two-down LB concerns, but he plays with a passion and
fire that fuels a defense, and he’s a big hitter. Maualuga has also
displayed natural playmaking ability as a pass rusher and in
coverage during his time at USC.
2009 Outlook: Competing to start at MLB/SLB
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-25 LB with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Junior Seau
3. James Laurinaitis - St. Louis Rams - 6’2, 244
Scouting Report: He was likely a top 10-15 pick if he came
out last year, but Laurinaitis wasn’t as explosive in his senior
season. He’s an LB with great coverage ability, intangibles, and
football smarts, he’s just not especially powerful, speedy, or
quick.
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Dynasty Outlook: Top 12-30 DB
NFL Comparison: Shorter Rodney Harrison
2009 Outlook: Starting MLB
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-30 LB
NFL Comparison: Paul Posluszny
3. Louis Delmas - Detroit Lions - 6’0, 202
4. Jason Williams - Dallas Cowboys - 6’1, 241
Scouting Report: The Cowboys first pick wasn’t until the
third round, but they used on the eventual heir to the fantasy
jackpot WILB position in Wade Phillips defense. Williams
played at a small school, but his workout numbers and ability to
fly to the ball were among the best in this class.
2009 Outlook: Backup ILB/special teamer
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-30 with bust risk
NFL Comparison: untested Lawrence Timmons
Scouting Report: The Lions landed the best two way safety
in the draft. Delmas loves to throw his body around to make
big hits, but he’s also athletic enough to cover the deep middle.
There is some question about his level of competition in the
MAC and whether his somewhat slight frame will hold up
under the punishment of his physical playing style.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Gerald Alexander and Daniel
Bullocks to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-40 DB
NFL Comparison: Michael Griffin
5. Larry English - San Diego Chargers - 6’2, 255
Scouting Report: Few players in the draft can claim
English’s toughness, playing most of last year with a broken
thumb and winning back to back MAC top player awards even
though he tore an ACL at the end of 2007 and a pec in the
spring of 2008. He’s physical edge rusher who plays with a
mean streak.
2009 Outlook: Backup OLB
Dynasty Outlook: Top 20-40 LB
NFL Comparison: LaMarr Woodley
4. Michael Mitchell - Oakland Raiders - 6’1, 216
Scouting Report: The Raiders second pick inspired even
more laughter than their first. Mitchell is a destructive force
who put up fantastic numbers at his pro day, but he’s largely
unproven and most expected him to go in the late rounds, not
the second.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Tyvon Branch to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 10-40 DB with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Bernard Pollard
LINEBACKERS Drafted In First Four Rounds
Pos
OLB
OLB
OLB
OLB
ILB
ILB
OLB
OLB
OLB
OLB
ILB
ILB
LB
Pick
1.04
1.15
1.18
1.26
2.03
2.06
2.13
3.05
3.12
3.33
4.04
4.18
4.30
Player
Curry, Aaron
Cushing, Brian
Ayers, Robert
Matthews, Clay
Laurinaitis, James
Maualuga, Rey
Sintim, Clint
Williams, Jason
Levy, DeAndre
McKenzie, Tyrone
Maiava, Kaluka
Arnoux, Stanley
McRath, Gerald
Ht
6’2
6’3
6’3
6’3
6’2
6’2
6’3
6’1
6’2
6’2
5’11
6’0
6’2
Wt
254
243
272
240
244
249
256
241
236
243
229
232
231
College
Wake Forest
Southern Cal
Tennessee
Southern Cal
Ohio State
Southern Cal
Virginia
Western Illinois
Wisconsin
South Florida
Southern Cal
Wake Forest
Southern Miss
Team
Seahawks
Texans
Broncos
Packers
Rams
Bengals
Giants
Cowboys
Lions
Patriots
Browns
Saints
Titans
DEFENSIVE BACKS
by Sigmund Bloom
1. William Moore - Atlanta Falcons - 6’0, 221
Scouting Report: Moore played like a franchise safety in
2007, and then he got posterized by deep throws way too often
in 2008. He’s an instinctive player who blows up receivers who
come into his zone with a ballhawk mentality, but sometimes he
looks like a linebacker miscast in the secondary.
2009 Outlook: Starting SS
Dynasty Outlook: Top 5-20 DB with bust risk
NFL Comparison: Roy Williams, both the good and the bad
2. Patrick Chung - New England Patriots - 5’11, 212
Scouting Report: Chung is a classic intimidator who punishes
wide receivers and running backs alike. He’s at his best playing
downhill versus the pass and lining up in the box against the run.
He can be exposed if he’s left on an island in deep coverage.
2009 Outlook: Competing with James Sanders and Brandon
McGowan to start
5. Malcolm Jenkins - New Orleans Saints - 6’0, 204
Scouting Report: Jenkins has the size, physicality, and mentality to be a shutdown corner, the only thing missing is elite
speed. He played some free safety at Ohio State, so there is a
plan B, but the Saints plan on keeping him at corner.
2009 Outlook: Competing with Randall Gay and Tracy Porter to start
Dynasty Outlook: Top 15-50 DB
NFL Comparison: Antrel Rolle
DEFENSIVE BACKS Drafted In First Four Rounds
Pos
CB
CB
CB
SS
CB
CB
CB
SS
CB
S
S
CB
CB
CB
CB
CB
CB
CB
CB
CB
S
CB
CB
CB
FS
S
CB
CB
Pick
1.14
1.25
2.01
2.02
2.05
2.09
2.10
2.15
2.16
2.23
2.27
2.29
3.02
3.09
3.16
3.22
3.24
3.26
3.28
3.30
3.31
3.32
4.02
4.12
4.14
4.16
4.19
4.31
Player
Jenkins, Malcolm
Davis, Vontae
Delmas, Louis
Chung, Patrick
Smith, Alphonso
Butler, Darius
Byrd, Jairus
Mitchell, Mike
McBath, Darcel
Moore, William
Martin, Sherrod
Smith, Sean
Fletcher, Bradley
Cox, Derek
Barnes, Kevin
Allen, Asher
Webb, Lardarius
Owens, Christopher
Powers, Jerraud
Mouton, Ryan
Johnson, Rashad
Lewis, Keenan
Washington, Donald
Quin, Glover
Bruton, David
Vaughn, Chip
Moore, D.J.
Toler, Greg
Ht
6’0
5’11
6’0
5’11
5’9
5’11
5’10
6’0
6’0
6’0
6’1
6’4
6’0
6’1
6’0
5’10
5’10
5’10
5’9
5’9
5’11
6’0
6’0
5’11
6’2
6’1
5’9
5’11
Wt
204
203
202
212
193
183
207
220
198
221
198
214
196
189
187
194
179
181
188
187
203
208
197
204
219
221
192
191
College
Ohio State
Illinois
W. Michigan
Oregon
Wake Forest
Connecticut
Oregon
Ohio
Texas Tech
Missouri
Troy
Utah
Iowa
William & Mary
Maryland
Georgia
Nicholls State
San Jose State
Auburn
Hawaii
Alabama
Oregon State
Ohio State
New Mexico
Notre Dame
Wake Forest
Vanderbilt
St Pauls
Team
Saints
Dolphins
Lions
Patriots
Broncos
Patriots
Bills
Raiders
Broncos
Falcons
Panthers
Dolphins
Rams
Jaguars
Redskins
Vikings
Ravens
Falcons
Colts
Titans
Cardinals
Steelers
Chiefs
Texans
Broncos
Saints
Bears
Cardinals
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