*** Official Dave Te Q & A Thread ***

1. Two of "my guys" are Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Deatrich Wise Jr. JRM obviously was hurt for the majority of last year but before that was being discussed as a Day 2 pick. DW Jr. didn't make the jump in his senior year that was expected of him.

But I was just wondering what you think of these two prospects as Day 3 options for the Giants.

2. Of Ramczyk and Bolles, who do you prefer and why?

3. Thoughts on FS Marcus Williams of Utah? And what about Desmond King of Iowa? Could he be a better fit at FS than CB?

a) type at warp speed, or
b) use dictation software, or
c) clone yourself several times over

However you do it, you're amazing. And we on BBI are blessed to have you and Sy scouring the country for us.

Thank you, Happy Easter, and here's hoping you get a breather after the draft.

you told me to remind you about your take on Ereck Flowers next Friday. So, when you get around to it, I'd appreciate your take on his prognosis moving forward..And, do you think Solari can make a difference vis a vis techniques

David Jones, FS, Richmond

Jordan Evans, WLB, Oklahoma

Jeremy Sprinkle, TE, Arkansas

Donnel Pumphrey, RB, SDSU

1 and 2

In comment 13430526 adamg said:

Quote:

David Jones, FS, Richmond Jordan Evans, WLB, Oklahoma Jeremy Sprinkle, TE, Arkansas Donnel Pumphrey, RB, SDSU

My bad, it's much easier to answer an actual question...

How do you project these guys to pan out? I'm particularly interested if David Jones is a guy you like or not and what you think Sprinkle's ceiling is.

Thank you, sir.

1. I would kill to get us an MLB that can be a game-changing 3 down player.
I know you've spoken about your fondness for the two top rated MLB's in this class, Foster from Alabama and Davis from Florida. Are there any other guys you think stand out as potential strong additions at MLB?
Possibly
--Raekwon McMillian from Ohio State
--Anthony Walker Jr from Northwestern.

While Cunningham and Reddick have wider skill sets, do you see either of them ending up as an MLB down the road

2. I saw you mentioned Craig Winston and David Jones as "draft me" guys. As a Richmond grad, what have you seen from the Spiders program that has brought some of their guys into the league (like Kerry Wynn) so ready to compete?

Do you think Njoku is a better value and fit than Lamp and Cunnigham at pick 23? Thank you!

Who in your opinion is a sure fire pick? Disclude OJ Howard from this

I have been a fan of his and like him way better than Cunningham. Davis, to me, just brings that old school LB mentality. He flies around the field. There is also buzz with him similar to what was happening with Beckham late in the process where almost nobody connected the two. Can you elaborate on the negatives with him expecially medicals that we may not be aware of? I know he has had a few different types of injuries but nothing that should be a long term concern. At least that is what the average fan can see. And, where would he rank in terms of the Giants board? I am just using this as an example but if Howard was available I am sure Howard would be above Davis on the Giants board. So, with realistic players that would be available what would it take for him to actually be the pick? Thanks as always.

Some sleeper picks in late rounds

Kareem Are. OG
Tariq Cohen RB
Jeremy Cutrer CB
And my number one sleeper Carroll Phillips. Who should go in 4th

What are your thoughts

Seems to be a chance he is the pick at 23...

What do you see other than arm tackles

...every time I saw this guy play, he looked stiff to me running down the field.

Not robotic-stiff, but just a little tight in his stride and overall movement.

I guess I have two questions;

1) Am I full of it and just seeing things wrong?
2) If he is a little stiff, does it really matter?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

What's your feel on Dalvin Cook? Is he going before 20 or could we see him drop to the Giants?

Also, how do the Giants view him? Would he be in play if he drops?

Over the past several years the Giants have struggled with their 3rd round picks. Are they swinging and missing on high upside gambles or are they reaching? Do you have any thoughts on how the Giants can change their luck in round 3?

2011 Jerrel Jernigan
2012 Jayron Hosley
2013 Damontre Moore
2014 James Bromley
2015 Owamagbe Odighizuwa
2016 Darian Thompson

My condolences to you and your family. Your insight in addition to Sy's is invaluable. While I often try to study prospects with an untrained eye it's great to get both your professional opinions to the BBI community. I'm well on my way to Arm Chair GM of the year thanks to both of you.


Any thoughts or scouting done on Raheem Wilson Southeastern Oklahoma? I've loved what I've seen on tape from
Him as a day 3 pick.

Thanks again, and if you ever decide to get back into scouting full time. Please try to make sure it's for Big Blue

In that Eagles fan thread.

With how bad the kicking got for some teams last season (and week 11 league-wide), how high does Zane Gonzalez go? With the number of teams working him out (at least the Giants, Browns, Bengals, Chiefs, and Vikings), someone is going to take a shot.

injury concerns are what are holding him back. How far will he drop? Could he conceivably make it to Round #2 where the Giants pick 55th (doubtful, I know)?

few decades. Any players that you thought were close to sure things that didn't quite pan out in the pros?

I want to ask which player in this draft, do you believe can have an immediate impact for us. Whether you see them as a day 1 starter or even as a ST contributor and in which round would you like us to pick them?

Understand the joy it brings us bbiers reading your analysis it's just incredible. One quick questions

Do you think drafting shaheen round 2 presents a lot more value than drafting Njoku round 1 and maybe targeting a guy like jarrad Davis or Cunningham round 1 if the offensive lineman you like are gone?

what are your thoughts on San Diego State players RB Donnel Pumphrey, OL Nico Siragusa, OL Daniel Brunskill, DE Alex Barrett, LB Calvin Munson and CB Damontae Kazee.

I think Munson would be a late round, UDFA gem.

Dave! Gun to your head - who is the Giants pick at 23? Considering Howard most likely gone.

Do you have notes on last years Giants draft picks you can share?

Also a one off question. With concerns of O.J. Towards tenacity being raised. Do scouts or other player personnel consult current players i.e. Landon Collins on teammates work ethic, practice habits, motivation ect?

Thanks again Dave

into Isaiah Ford. Likes/dislikes about his game, and what round do you see him being picked?

Also, what do you believe the draft strategy should be with this years OT crop? Since it is supposed to be one of the weakest classes in a while. Do you think the top rated OT's are being overrated, or actually belong where they are estimated to go?

Really enjoy your insight. I'm gonna reach here and ask if you know anything about WR Dalton Crossan. He was at our Showcase and showed up, obviously a more likely I drafted guy but curious if you had a chance to review him and your thoughts on his potential with an NFL club? Thanks in advance.
Fox Sports Article - ( New Window )

Not a question on a specific person, but on the NY Giants inability to draft (or develop) an Offensive Lineman in the later rounds. It is amazing how many picks they have used with little to no results to show for it.

If it is a scouting issue, why aren't the scouts replaced ?

Thanks

If Cam Robinson is still available when the Giants are on the clock, do they take him?

Saw you said that the Eagles were the only team with a first round grade still on Cook, do you think that's smoke and mirrors?

If not could you see the Giants making a move up Round 2?

fully appreciated.

Loved that thread brother and really appreciate what you do. When I was a teen and fell in love with scouting, nfldraftscout was my encyclopedia (along with following threads on BBI and watching lots of tape). Glad the site still operates the original platform even though CBS wants to redirect me every time.

Guys I love you mentioned: Samaje Perrine, Curtis Samuel, Dion Dawkins, Haason Reddick... but the gold stars are for Jordan Evans (how he was snubbed a combine invite is beyond me), Brian Allen, Tanoh Kpassagnon and last but certainly not least Grover Stewart (what a prospect).

I'm a bit surprised about Jarrad Davis given the injury history, his motor and leadership combined with on field talent galore makes sense but how can you justify spending a first round pick on a guy with such a history?

A few names I want to throw your way and see what your take on:

Greyson Lambert QB Georgia
Brian Hill RB Wyoming
Michael Clark WR Marshall
Colin Jeter TE LSU
Jerry Ugokwe OT William & Mary
Greg Pyke OG Georgia
Al-Quadin Muhammad DE U Miami
Eli Ankou DT UCLA and/or Rashaad Coward DT Old Dominion
Matt Milano OLB BC
Tanner Vallejo ILB Boise State
Treston DeCoud CB Oregon State
Jadar Johnson SS Clemson
Delano Hill FS Michigan

I've come to like these guys a good bit while doing my routine this time of year. They are primarily day 3 guys so figured it might be a change of pace for the guys here on the board always looking for new names. Thanks again for all you do and I look forward to your involvement in this forums future.

Anakim : 4/16/2017 7:40 pm : link : reply
1. Two of "my guys" are Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Deatrich Wise Jr. JRM obviously was hurt for the majority of last year but before that was being discussed as a Day 2 pick. DW Jr. didn't make the jump in his senior year that was expected of him.

But I was just wondering what you think of these two prospects as Day 3 options for the Giants.

2. Of Ramczyk and Bolles, who do you prefer and why?

3. Thoughts on FS Marcus Williams of Utah? And what about Desmond King of Iowa? Could he be a better fit at FS than CB?
1-Reeves-Maybin has been a bit of a disappointment. Earlier in his career, I thought he was going to emerge, showing great downhill ability and recognition skills, but he seems to lack courage vs. the run. Besides, with his bad shoulder, he’s yet to get medical clearance. At slightly over six-feet, I doubt that he fits the Giants scheme, but looks more like camp fodder at the moment.

2-I pretty much rested my case on those two linemen in an earlier post. If I had to be tied down and take one? Bolles, as I am not one that likes linemen with hip problems. To me, a lineman does not need to be fast – just strong and have the ability to slide laterally. Still, I will “keep a light on” for Lamp as a Giant in Round One.

3-I just wrapped up a bunch of days at Utah. I’m a big fan of Asiata and Brian Allen, but on Marcus? Solid performer who should have gone back to school, as he needs to not only bulk up more, but dedicated hours in the film room. He’s a solid playmaker and has has good “prick” in him with those hands, showing the ability to jostle for the ball or knock a receiver off stride with a grab or shove without being caught. Right now, the Value Board places him in round four.

Hey Dave,
Big Blue '56 : 4/16/2017 7:46 pm : link : reply
you told me to remind you about your take on Ereck Flowers next Friday. So, when you get around to it, I'd appreciate your take on his prognosis moving forward..And, do you think Solari can make a difference vis a vis techniques
ANSWER
Might not get to Flowers until next week-heading to Wyoming after Utah State, Southern Utah & BYU visits this week to see my fave QB.
As for Solari, I prefer to withhold judgement. Why? Well, if anyone got excited about Giants OL play last year, it had to be an opposing defender. Second, look at the track marks (brown spots) he had in his undies after two ill-advised years (2006-07) as KC's offensive coordinator

adamg : 4/16/2017 7:52 pm : link : reply
In comment 13430526 adamg said:
Quote:
David Jones, FS, Richmond

Jordan Evans, WLB, Oklahoma

Jeremy Sprinkle, TE, Arkansas

Donnel Pumphrey, RB, SDSU


My bad, it's much easier to answer an actual question...

How do you project these guys to pan out? I'm particularly interested if David Jones is a guy you like or not and what you think Sprinkle's ceiling is.
ANSWER
Jones is one of my sleepers! I’ve been pushing him hard on Foxboro, as he not only can fly to the ball, he has great hands. I’d take him by 5, but most have him at the tailend due to the foot injury he suffered. Evans might not get drafted, but he’s better than any LB on the Giants first unit. Sprinkle never got a warm fuzzy feeling from me, as he’s a going through the motions player. As much as folks like McCaffrey, I’m a Pumphrey guy – reminds me of an old Cardinal, Stump Mitchell and with the success that Woodhead & Sproles have had, I see the same career route for that Aztec.

2 Questions, thanks Dave
SirYesSir : 4/16/2017 7:55 pm : link : reply
1. I would kill to get us an MLB that can be a game-changing 3 down player.
I know you've spoken about your fondness for the two top rated MLB's in this class, Foster from Alabama and Davis from Florida. Are there any other guys you think stand out as potential strong additions at MLB?
Possibly
--Raekwon McMillian from Ohio State
--Anthony Walker Jr from Northwestern.

While Cunningham and Reddick have wider skill sets, do you see either of them ending up as an MLB down the road

2. I saw you mentioned Craig Winston and David Jones as "draft me" guys. As a Richmond grad, what have you seen from the Spiders program that has brought some of their guys into the league (like Kerry Wynn) so ready to compete?
2.
ANSWER
McMillian does some good things on the field, but he does have recognition lapses. When Darron Lee & Perry played on the flank in 2015, that issue was not exposed, but without them, he had a lot of trouble getting off blocks (yeah, he had a decent amount, but a lot were pile jumpers). Folks say Round 2, but I’d keep my card on the table if he came up for me to pick. Reddick is a perfect fit inside in a 3-4 scheme and Pittsburgh would clamor to get him to insert next to Shazier, but I keep hearing the Lions are all over him. Cunningham is too weak to play on my team. Him, Humphrey (Bama), Tabor, Lattimore, all guys that are getting lots of ink, leaving scouts wondering why. Dog me on this, but my top OLBs are in this order; Reddick, Bowser, Watt, McKinley, Ryan Anderson (yes, over Williams), Cunningham. Now, Anderson is the wild card you want to see in a Big Blue uni!

Hi Dave
Rjanyg : 4/16/2017 8:00 pm : link : reply
Do you think Njoku is a better value and fit than Lamp and Cunnigham at pick 23? Thank you!
ANSWER
Lamp over anyone expected to fall to the bottom third of Round One, hands down.
Would only consider Cunningham on late Day 2 action – not my type of backer.
No, they need to get Lamp & if not, a linebacker in the Jarrad Davis, Tyson Bowser mold. There are enough tight ends to pick from in Day three that offer very good value (Hodges in 4, Saubert & Roberts 6/7, Hollister 7)

Of the guys that have been "linked to us"
superspynyg : 4/16/2017 8:06 pm : link : reply
Who in your opinion is a sure fire pick? Disclude OJ Howard from this
Confusing question? Do you mean pick one guy only in this draft, regardless of position or team? If so, obviously my choice is LSU’s Jamal Adams.

SEE DAVIS REPORT ON POST ON BOARD

Dave-Te, a question about David Njoku...
M.S. : 4/16/2017 9:40 pm : link : reply

...every time I saw this guy play, he looked stiff to me running down the field.

Not robotic-stiff, but just a little tight in his stride and overall movement.

I guess I have two questions;

1) Am I full of it and just seeing things wrong?
2) If he is a little stiff, does it really matter?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
ANSWER
Yes, he looks like Tank McNamara, but those are pretty narrow legs on him. Besides, he’s dropped over 11% of his passes & go look at the Pitt game last year. Elijah Price made him his girlfriend. I still reiterate – coaches need to park their butts in stadiums on Saturdays rather than wait for Indy, where they fall in love with a guy in DVDs. Here’s the thing – he’s as raw as Bucky Hodges & has the same agility skills. Yet, boards have the Hurricane in 1 & the Tech kid in 4 – go figure.

Dave, really appreciate the reports
aimrocky : 4/16/2017 9:49 pm : link : reply
What's your feel on Dalvin Cook? Is he going before 20 or could we see him drop to the Giants?

Also, how do the Giants view him? Would he be in play if he drops?
ANSWER
All indicated are the Eagles want Cook at 14 - good riddance. Actually, the Giants are looking more at big backs, early day three guys. If Cook drops to the Giants, he will continue to fall, but again, I don't see him getting past #14.
Prediction-Fournette to Jacksonville
McCaffrey in a trade, with either Cincy or Carolina moving up (with Jets)

Dave
FOXLIN : 4/16/2017 10:07 pm : link : reply
My condolences to you and your family. Your insight in addition to Sy's is invaluable. While I often try to study prospects with an untrained eye it's great to get both your professional opinions to the BBI community. I'm well on my way to Arm Chair GM of the year thanks to both of you.


Any thoughts or scouting done on Raheem Wilson Southeastern Oklahoma? I've loved what I've seen on tape from
Him as a day 3 pick.

Thanks again, and if you ever decide to get back into scouting full time. Please try to make sure it's for Big Blue
ANSWER
Sorry brutha, 4.65 at 179 pounds is not going to cut it for this kid. Wilson’s Pro Day #s:
Dates: 03/10/17 and 03/08/17
Hand: 09 3/4
Arm: 29 7/8
Wingspan: 72 7/8
Height: 5100
Weight: 179
40 Yard Dash (HH): 4.65
20 Yard (HH): 2.69
10 Yard (HH): 1.57
225 Lb. Bench Reps: 11
Vertical Jump: 34 1/2
Broad Jump: 10'06"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.12
3-Cone Drill: 6.95
40 Time Range: 4.60-4.70/Bests

Zane Gonzalez
Typecast : 4/16/2017 11:02 pm : link : reply
With how bad the kicking got for some teams last season (and week 11 league-wide), how high does Zane Gonzalez go? With the number of teams working him out (at least the Giants, Browns, Bengals, Chiefs, and Vikings), someone is going to take a shot.
ANSWER
Actually, I spent a lot of time with this kid as he trained at Toby Wright’s (ex Rams safety) where I now live in Arizona. Yes, he’s going to fly off the board by Round 5 and boy can he connect from anywhere (NCAA record 115 field goals). He won’t be the only kicker taken, as Jake Elliott is a sixth round guy out of Memphis & Giants have been in on Stanford’s Conrad Ukropina.

I love Jarrad Davis. I think he's the best MLB in this draft, but the
Optimus-NY : 4/16/2017 11:08 pm : link : reply
injury concerns are what are holding him back. How far will he drop? Could he conceivably make it to Round #2 where the Giants pick 55th (doubtful, I know)?
ANSWER
I love Davis too, but you may want to check out that MLB out of Bama before you hail Davis as king. He’s big on the Steelers charts & I don’t think he makes it to Round 2 – I just posted his scouting report excerpt on the main board

Thanks for all the info that you're been giving us.
3r76jp : 4/16/2017 11:45 pm : link : reply
I want to ask which player in this draft, do you believe can have an immediate impact for us. Whether you see them as a day 1 starter or even as a ST contributor and in which round would you like us to pick them?
ANSWER
I usually go by the three-year plan Year One-Get your feet wet; Year Two-Apply what you learned/learn from your mistakes; Year Three-Produce or the draft is where they find a replacement.
I’m a big Forrest Lamp fan, think Bucky Hodges would be a steal/mismatch for CBS/hedging that if Brandon Marshall melts down, Hodges steps in. I think Jarrad Davis is an excellent MLB, but later in the draft – three steals – OLB/DE Ryan Anderson-Bama, CB/FS Brian Allen-Utah & WR Kenny Golladay-NIU. Whoever gets these guys, gets great value.

Dave, thanks so much for doing this you don't even
Tuckrule : 4:48 am : link : reply
Understand the joy it brings us bbiers reading your analysis it's just incredible. One quick questions

Do you think drafting shaheen round 2 presents a lot more value than drafting Njoku round 1 and maybe targeting a guy like jarrad Davis or Cunningham round 1 if the offensive lineman you like are gone?
ANSWER
Oh God yes, Shaheen was a guy I turned lots of scouts on last year while out there last spring. Honestly, he could be a baby Gronk & certain fan favorite. As for Davis, yes, I’d take him, but I really like Jordan Willis (if still there) for rush end & no, I would not draft Cunningham Day One 9or two-not my kind of player).

Good stuff
ryanmkeane : 8:44 am : link : reply
Dave! Gun to your head - who is the Giants pick at 23? Considering Howard most likely gone.
ANSWER
Depends on who is there. If I had to give you my “circle of five” in order. I say Reddick, Lamp, Willis, Jarrad Davis, Bowser

Last years draft
FOXLIN : 9:05 am : link : reply
Do you have notes on last years Giants draft picks you can share?
ANSWER
No, on the road & all previous files are archived-check with moderator if he still has them but all posted with the FA guys back then

Also a one off question. With concerns of O.J. Towards tenacity being raised. Do scouts or other player personnel consult current players i.e. Landon Collins on teammates work ethic, practice habits, motivation ect?
We check EVERYTHING. Me, I go way deep into family & talk to everyone on campus. I need everything but what hand they wipe their butt with before done. My full reports are a minimum of 100 pages on a guy.

Hey Dave
kelsto811 : 10:31 am : link : reply
Really enjoy your insight. I'm gonna reach here and ask if you know anything about WR Dalton Crossan. He was at our Showcase and showed up, obviously a more likely I drafted guy but curious if you had a chance to review him and your thoughts on his potential with an NFL club? Thanks in advance.
Fox Sports Article - ( New Window )
ANSWER
That freaking RKO reporter stole my line! I told scouts while I was there that this kid is the purr-fect Patriot, like Edelman & Hogan, White & the rest of those motley crew of versatile guys. I was actually there to get a look on the safety, Casey DeAndrade, but Crosson blew me away. He tore Lehigh up for three scores & 184 yards on 24 runs, but boy, that TD catch inside the 10 was sweet! I stood around for the Maine game & he reals off a 35-yard TD scamper that saw him break five tackles. You know Bill – if not drafted, nothing good gets past him out of New England. UNH has not had a talent like him in years. Shame the conference only thought he was worth second team honors.

Dave
Bob in Vt : 11:39 am : link : reply
Not a question on a specific person, but on the NY Giants inability to draft (or develop) an Offensive Lineman in the later rounds. It is amazing how many picks they have used with little to no results to show for it. If it is a scouting issue, why aren't the scouts replaced ?
ANSWER
I gotta site the 5th ammendment. I work with them, who they hire is their choice. Do I agree with their choices? The reason I've been doing this since 1968 for the league is simple. I am Dr. Watson - I do all the research, leave no stone unturned, make a suggestion & take a back seat.
The GM plays Sherlock Holmes - makes the decision, gets the glory or the rotten tomatoes tossed at him. Unless a scout makes a total ass of himself on campus, it's the team's Human Resources department that has to deal with them

In comment 13431797 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Hey Dave kelsto811 : 10:31 am : link : reply Really enjoy your insight. I'm gonna reach here and ask if you know anything about WR Dalton Crossan. He was at our Showcase and showed up, obviously a more likely I drafted guy but curious if you had a chance to review him and your thoughts on his potential with an NFL club? Thanks in advance. Fox Sports Article - ( New Window ) ANSWER That freaking RKO reporter stole my line! I told scouts while I was there that this kid is the purr-fect Patriot, like Edelman & Hogan, White & the rest of those motley crew of versatile guys. I was actually there to get a look on the safety, Casey DeAndrade, but Crosson blew me away. He tore Lehigh up for three scores & 184 yards on 24 runs, but boy, that TD catch inside the 10 was sweet! I stood around for the Maine game & he reals off a 35-yard TD scamper that saw him break five tackles. You know Bill – if not drafted, nothing good gets past him out of New England. UNH has not had a talent like him in years. Shame the conference only thought he was worth second team honors.

I coached him in high school. If memory serves me correctly we won a game 73-72 and I think he had 8 TDs. It was one of the craziest games ever. He was just on a different level than everybody else. He was so much quicker than everybody that he just looked like he was jogging half the time. We ran a flex bone offense. It is great to see him having this success. He has a younger brother Trent that was awesome too. Both brothers transferred to the school at the same time. Dalton was a junior and Trent was a freshman. Dalton also started at corner and Trent started at LB. Dalton was a RB but asked the coaches to play QB because all we did was run the ball all the time so he learned to play QB in one offseason and was a monster because he touched the ball every play.

My question for Dave Te...
Milton : 12:53 pm : link : reply
If Cam Robinson is still available when the Giants are on the clock, do they take him?
All depends - if Lamp is there & they take Cam? I come to Rutherford and put Jerry Reese over my knee.
I would also take Reddick or Bowser over Cam, if they slide. I would need a coin toss on him & Jarrad Davis, but would grab Cam over Willis

Your "All Draft Me Team"
uncledave : 3:36 pm : link : reply
Loved that thread brother and really appreciate what you do. When I was a teen and fell in love with scouting, nfldraftscout was my encyclopedia (along with following threads on BBI and watching lots of tape). Glad the site still operates the original platform even though CBS wants to redirect me every time.

Guys I love you mentioned: Samaje Perrine, Curtis Samuel, Dion Dawkins, Haason Reddick... but the gold stars are for Jordan Evans (how he was snubbed a combine invite is beyond me), Brian Allen, Tanoh Kpassagnon and last but certainly not least Grover Stewart (what a prospect).

I'm a bit surprised about Jarrad Davis given the injury history, his motor and leadership combined with on field talent galore makes sense but how can you justify spending a first round pick on a guy with such a history?
ANSWER
Here’s the thing-everyone knew of Kuechly’s injury history coming out of BC, yet felt he was worth the gamble. Outside of Foster & Reddick (in a 3-4), no inside backer in this draft is better than Davis, when healthy. It’s the risk that a team will have to consider, but 12 games of Davis vs. 16 from Cunningham? I go the 12 route
AS FOR YOU OTHER QUESTION
Bubba, I got 60 questions here & one hour to answer them before the flight. Going to have to leave it as “take one free sample” answer here, sorry

WHEW-I hope I answered them all. If I did not, sorry folks, eyes are going. That's all for Monday-back on later tomorrow, so if you have ants in your pants to get an answer, it has to wait until then, good night Big Blue

In comment 13431810 nflscouting said:

Quote:

WHEW-I hope I answered them all. If I did not, sorry folks, eyes are going. That's all for Monday-back on later tomorrow, so if you have ants in your pants to get an answer, it has to wait until then, good night Big Blue

You are the man.

More of a personal question.

I've done done scouting for some giants websites for the last for years, and currently work in Sports Analytics. Every year I'll send stuff to NFL teams, in hope of an opportunity.

Any advice for breaking in even as a consultant. Can feel free to shoot me an email at anthony.raia24@Gmail.com

Appreciate any insight you can give

Dave: Curious what position you see Peppers playing on pro level? Also wondered about Jarron Jones of ND as a sleeper.

Hey Dave
ajr2456 : 7:29 pm : link : reply
More of a personal question.

I've done done scouting for some giants websites for the last for years, and currently work in Sports Analytics. Every year I'll send stuff to NFL teams, in hope of an opportunity.

Any advice for breaking in even as a consultant. Can feel free to shoot me an email at anthony.raia24@Gmail.com

ANSWER
Unfortunately, the business has changed drastically since I entered it in 1968. Most of the personnel hired by teams get interviewed at the Senior Bowl. If they like, you get "invited" to meet again in Indy. To start out off the street these days? Very rare. Most put in their hours with either a college FB team or intern as anything in the front office, but I do not have privy to their requirements (most request a degree & the kicker - work related experience)

IF YOU ARE MARRIED & HAVE KIDS-don't venture here. More than 80% of the scouts I know have been divorced. Hell, my last vacation was in 1983. When my wife died, I could put myself to sleep at night counting my regrets for "taking that assignment" or saying "sorry babe, the team wants me to fly out."
If you know what happened with my wife & her six-year cancer battle, it was not hard for me to walk away from 50 years in the industry. Oh, if I could only have just one more freaking second with her, I would get the word "sorry" spilling off my lips.
Just a thought from a been-there/regret doing that scout

Jabrill Peppers
Syracuse15 : 7:33 pm : link : reply
Dave: Curious what position you see Peppers playing on pro level? Also wondered about Jarron Jones of ND as a sleeper.
ANSWER
Oh this kid was born to play for Tennessee, but alas, he will slide to the next best for him, Pittsburgh. Anyone that uses him needs to refer to Troy Polamalu tapes - that is how I would use him - strong safety in run force/free in zone coverage/Cover 2-LB in short yardage, etc.
As for Jones, as a sleeper? I say more so marginal talent, a guy I don't see starting & if anything, a practice squad guy in 2017. 105 tackles in 51 games fail to excite. Yeah, he had 11 TFLs this year, but look how many came (9) late in games with opponents putting second unit guys out there.
Jarron Jones=Arthur Jones - two talented guys with minimal production

I probably should rephrase my question here. I'd love to hear about some of your personal favorite prospects who didn't quite live up their lofty expectations in the pros (whether it was due to injury, being drafted by a team that didn't use his skillset to their advantage, or just wasn't as good as you thought they'd be)

Without hesitation, my BIGGEST disappointment is Colin. I was attached at the hip with this kid ever since I scouted him in baseball, personally know his family and went nutso on the kid.
The talent level he has is off the chart, the head is not attached right. He has to get away from that girlfriend & her entourage whispering in his ears. Geez, he looks like a Chia Pet now & plays like a cat (insert your word for cat here) all too much.
Sans the flag issues, there is more than just that keeping him unemployed. Another recent one that comes to mind is Cincy CB Denard - - what a year he had that final season, yet, NFL life is confined to the trainer's room.
BIGGEST STAY AWAY FROM BY ME-to Dave Razzano, trying to talk him out of taking Lawrence Phillips for the Rams. Between him & Aldon Smith, I never met a pair that I wanted to take to the woodshed & pull out the strap - both simply not good for being a member of society

Thanks for doing this and I'm enjoying the hell out of your insights.

Curious about your thoughts on Tre'Davious White and also if you think he could be in the mix for the Giants?

Thanks.

Hey Dave
Eman11 : 8:40 pm : link : reply
Thanks for doing this and I'm enjoying the hell out of your insights.

Curious about your thoughts on Tre'Davious White and also if you think he could be in the mix for the Giants?
ANSWER
Dude, I luv ya, but get out of my brain! I'm at the airport with a scout from San Fran & the PPR from the Cards. We are talking DBs & I ask them for the life of me, why is no one talking about White in the first round, or, why no chatter at all, but Tabor & all the other overrated ones get massive coverage.
The answer? well, the others have flaws we all need to see but with White, he's textbook fashion. But as a Giant? No way he lasts until their pick in 2, and the Giants have more pressing needs (OL, LB, Rush end) to address first.

In comment 13431829 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Hey Dave ajr2456 : 7:29 pm : link : reply More of a personal question. I've done done scouting for some giants websites for the last for years, and currently work in Sports Analytics. Every year I'll send stuff to NFL teams, in hope of an opportunity. Any advice for breaking in even as a consultant. Can feel free to shoot me an email at anthony.raia24@Gmail.com ANSWER Unfortunately, the business has changed drastically since I entered it in 1968. Most of the personnel hired by teams get interviewed at the Senior Bowl. If they like, you get "invited" to meet again in Indy. To start out off the street these days? Very rare. Most put in their hours with either a college FB team or intern as anything in the front office, but I do not have privy to their requirements (most request a degree & the kicker - work related experience) IF YOU ARE MARRIED & HAVE KIDS-don't venture here. More than 80% of the scouts I know have been divorced. Hell, my last vacation was in 1983. When my wife died, I could put myself to sleep at night counting my regrets for "taking that assignment" or saying "sorry babe, the team wants me to fly out." If you know what happened with my wife & her six-year cancer battle, it was not hard for me to walk away from 50 years in the industry. Oh, if I could only have just one more freaking second with her, I would get the word "sorry" spilling off my lips. Just a thought from a been-there/regret doing that scout

Thanks for the info Dave, and condolences on your wife. Can't imagine what that was like.

If you're ever looking for some side gigs, I'd be happy to have you in my office and take a look at our football analytics platform.

Wish you the best.

What are your thoughts on the following (2) players;
Shaquill Griffin and Trey Hendrickson.

These are two players that stood out to me during the year.
They are football players who play fast and physical.

In comment 13431762 nflscouting said:

Quote:

adamg : 4/16/2017 7:52 pm : link : reply In comment 13430526 adamg said: Quote: David Jones, FS, Richmond Jordan Evans, WLB, Oklahoma Jeremy Sprinkle, TE, Arkansas Donnel Pumphrey, RB, SDSU My bad, it's much easier to answer an actual question... How do you project these guys to pan out? I'm particularly interested if David Jones is a guy you like or not and what you think Sprinkle's ceiling is. ANSWER Jones is one of my sleepers! I’ve been pushing him hard on Foxboro, as he not only can fly to the ball, he has great hands. I’d take him by 5, but most have him at the tailend due to the foot injury he suffered. Evans might not get drafted, but he’s better than any LB on the Giants first unit. Sprinkle never got a warm fuzzy feeling from me, as he’s a going through the motions player. As much as folks like McCaffrey, I’m a Pumphrey guy – reminds me of an old Cardinal, Stump Mitchell and with the success that Woodhead & Sproles have had, I see the same career route for that Aztec.

Thanks. Pumphrey excites me as well. He plays with a bit more authority and cockiness than you might expect such a slight guy, and I think he'd bring some attitude to our RB corps. Thanks again.

is Eddie Jackson. His stock was sky high last year and dropped to day 2 or 3 pick. Is he a guy on your radar? Where's his value?

Dave Te! Burning the midnight oil!

Dave, your attention to everyone's questions is way beyond the pale... Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to our members.

We very much appreciate it!!!

In comment 13432130 gidiefor said:

Quote:

Dave Te! Burning the midnight oil! Dave, your attention to everyone's questions is way beyond the pale... Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to our members. We very much appreciate it!!!

HEAR HEAR!!!

Lamp, Willis, Jarrad Davis, Bowser"

I would be happy with this list, especially the first two. I don't really want a TE, we just don't use it enough for a 1st rounder. Plus the top guys don't block that well and we only have 1 ball. In addition I am still very hopeful on Adams.

Where does he fit post injury? Wonder same thing on Sidney Jones. Seems an Achilles would make it hard to come back to form. I am surprised the WR from Clemson Mike Williams has not dropped with neck surgery in his past. I keep seeing him projected in top 10.

Again thanks for doing this and sorry for overloading that initial question, didn't realize J Davis was already asked about either... would you mind picking two or three from the list below that you like personally or think would work well for the Gmen in later rounds?

Greyson Lambert QB Georgia
Brian Hill RB Wyoming
Michael Clark WR Marshall
Colin Jeter TE LSU
Jerry Ugokwe OT William & Mary
Greg Pyke OG Georgia
Al-Quadin Muhammad DE U Miami
Eli Ankou DT UCLA and/or Rashaad Coward DT Old Dominion
Matt Milano OLB BC
Tanner Vallejo ILB Boise State
Treston DeCoud CB Oregon State
Jadar Johnson SS Clemson
Delano Hill FS Michigan

Dave
uncledave : 11:26 am : link : reply
Again thanks for doing this and sorry for overloading that initial question, didn't realize J Davis was already asked about either... would you mind picking two or three from the list below that you like personally or think would work well for the Gmen in later rounds?

Greyson Lambert QB Georgia
Brian Hill RB Wyoming
Michael Clark WR Marshall
Colin Jeter TE LSU
Jerry Ugokwe OT William & Mary
Greg Pyke OG Georgia
Al-Quadin Muhammad DE U Miami
Eli Ankou DT UCLA and/or Rashaad Coward DT Old Dominion
Matt Milano OLB BC
Tanner Vallejo ILB Boise State
Treston DeCoud CB Oregon State
Jadar Johnson SS Clemson
Delano Hill FS Michigan
ANSWER
If I had to pick just two, it might be a coincidence, as Brian Hill just finished working out for me. He's a strong inside runner, doing a nice job of lowering the pads & driving through contact, evident by his 22 TDs on the ground last year. HOWEVER, I told him to "get off the dance floor," as he does try to cherry pick on his moves & that sometimes leads to a slow step picking a hole. This leads to ball security issues. However, his lateral agility shows very good movement & I love the way he picks up the blitz in pass protection. Hey old timers here - look at film on this kid. Similar to Ron Johnson?

I like the William & Mary tackle & Pyke, but Pyke looks to be a better fit as a reserve at the three inside positions. I think Ugokwe is going to make some GM look great on Day Three. Him & Davenport at Bucknell were my top rated FCS blockers.

Back later this PM- have Wyoming kids to watch today

I appreciate what you do.

Any insight into Isaiah Ford. Likes/dislikes about his game, and what round do you see him being picked?

Also, what do you believe the draft strategy should be with this years OT crop? Since it is supposed to be one of the weakest classes in a while. Do you think the top rated OT's are being overrated, or actually belong where they are estimated to go?

Archer : 4/17/2017 9:55 pm : link : reply
What are your thoughts on the following (2) players;
Shaquill Griffin and Trey Hendrickson.

These are two players that stood out to me during the year.
They are football players who play fast and physical.
Hendrickson is an interesting talent, reminding me of the Rams’ new edge rusher, Connor Barwin. Adding to his resume is his abilities on special teams, especially as a kick blocker. He’s athletically gifted & I hope some team looks at his hands, as he has tight end experience and that could save a roster depth spot for a team if they also utilize him for a few snaps on offense, in addition to utilizing him as a short area blocker. As a defender, his range and lateral fluidness makes me hope he ends up standing up in the second level on the strong-side in a 3-4 scheme.
Ah, my boy, crazy-ass Shaq – the guy’s a creepy crawler & that’s a compliment. Those hands of his are secure as a pass thief, but if I ever had to make a video on how to properly elevate to get to the ball at its high point (thefts, break-ups), I will have to entice Shaq into starring for me. The UCF corner might be a better fit at free safety, as I love the way he attacks the ball & it would be a waste to just have him go one-on-one with a receiver.
I see Hendrickson going by round three & Griffin off the boards just before the defensive end. The Steelers have made lots of visits to the film room on Shaq and if they listen to former Pitt star Ike Taylor, look for Griffin in Steel Town

Eddie Jackson/Sidney Jones
Syracuse15 : 10:32 am : link : reply
Where does he fit post injury? Wonder same thing on Sidney Jones. Seems an Achilles would make it hard to come back to form. I am surprised the WR from Clemson Mike Williams has not dropped with neck surgery in his past. I keep seeing him projected in top 10.
ANSWER
Hey buddy, I was on the road for the medical recheck, so I can't really comment on their situations. Sorry, but hitting the 2018 class this spring, I had to prioritize my trips. Off the top of my head, I don't think Jones can even get back on the practice field until October (initial report), unless something has changed there.
As for Jackson, even before his leg injury, I felt he did not have the recovery burst to handle guys on deep routes as a CB & geez, I have a 4-year old grand son stronger than Jackson. My safeties have to collide with everything but the goal post. I've never been a fan of the average talent (sans Collins & Ha-Ha, so don't bite me) that the schools produced under Saban any way.

Dave you missed my question from page 1, but I'm not mad at yeah!
BigBlueDownTheShore : 12:33 pm : link : reply
I appreciate what you do.

Any insight into Isaiah Ford. Likes/dislikes about his game, and what round do you see him being picked?

Also, what do you believe the draft strategy should be with this years OT crop? Since it is supposed to be one of the weakest classes in a while. Do you think the top rated OT's are being overrated, or actually belong where they are estimated to go?
ANSWER
Sorry, I thought I answered this, but Ford blew it & so did the school. They are one of those teams that kick out "great" 40s & such. That is, until you put a watch on him. Ford runs 4.31, they said. Well, look at his combine & pro day & you wonder if the school ran him in a 30 instead of a 40.
Back in December, EVERYONE on the committee told all three of those young jerks (Ford, Hodges, Jerod Evans) they were not ready for prime time. Ford started the season great, but you never saw that "school speed" on any tapes. Hodges is raw, but could sneak into the end of Day Two thanks to his athleticism, but Ford & Evans are going to wish they stayed another year under Justin Fuente (my opinion - most underrated offensive mind in college not named PJ Fleck - a major rising star if ever there was on - Fleck) for another year. Day 3 for both - tell them to go fishing on the 27-28.

As for draft strategy? I have no idea. Understand, I scout, I research, I do not draft, actually do not care for it, so must pass on the question. Now, if you want to rephrase it to what I see from the OT class 3 years down the road;
BEST-Lamp (wherever they play him)
INJURY RISK-Ramczyk, Dielman, Mike Dunn
MOST OVERRATED-Roderick Johnson
MOST UNDERRATED-Moton
SUPER SLEEPERS-Knappe, Bisnowaty, Max Rich, Perkins-Texas & the kid from Alabama State-Jylan Ware (incredible footwork)

Guys, I understand that several of you have wanted me to help get them into scouting. Unfortunately, not is not my call. The NFL has a strict intern policy and you will need to contact them for info.
From what I have seen since 2008, the day & age of the street scout getting hired by a team is over. I lucked out - 1968 the scouting was still in its infancy. The Senior Bowl is the hiring market, but you need a resume loaded with football.
I know a lot of you say you can scout with the best of them, but there is so much that you need to do and learn, I honestly can not offer advice, as I fear it will crush a dream.
No, I am set with my staff. Our season begins in March and most teams' scout cycles follow suit (spring drills is the first stepping out party).
When the World League, USFL came into view, a lot of those guys moved over to the NFL. Right now, outside the rinky-dink spring league in the Carolinas, the only new league starting up is for college drop-outs that Tom brady's agent is trying to do out west. You might have to research on that but that could be a foot in the door - good luck, but have realistic outcome

I know, from reading some of your posts, that you're not a fan combine numbers or pro day numbers as being the end all be all and I get that. But I'm curious, there are a ton of players that have all the athletic gifts in the world that are picked up later in the draft, what is it that separates the really good players from the run of the mill player who possesses the exact same physical traits.

For example, Owa Odighizuwa looks like a beast tested like one, but has had no impact in games whatsoever. He may not be the best example because you can easily point to perhaps his passion for the game. But is it just a lack of technique? Are they not intelligent enough to learn? Do they lack instincts? Is it fearlessness or confidence? I just would be curious, having talked to these players, what really separates them?

...but instead became stars?

Davon Godchaux DT LSU
Rayshawn Jenkins FS U Miami
Jimmie Gilbert OLB U Colorado
Bryan Cox DE/OLB U FL
Francis Owusu WR Stanford
Jack Lynn LB Minnesota
Jermaine Grace WLB/SS? U Miami
Horace Richardson CB SMU
Maurice Fleming CB WVU

realistic it is and what you think of the value of the players:

1) WR Corey Davis of Western Michigan. If he's taken, LT Ryan Ramczyk of Wisconsin

2) FS Marcus Williams of Utah or FS Desmond King of Iowa

3) DT Montravius Adams of Auburn

4) RB Jamaal Williams of Brigham Young

5) DE Deatrich Wise Jr. of Arkansas

6) WLB Jalen Reeves-Maybin of Tennessee

As of April 19, 2017, how would you rank the following QBs and their potential fit with the Giant:

Sam Darnold

Josh Allen

Josh Rosen

Lamar Jackson

Luke Falk

Mason Rudolph

Okay guys, got a few questions to answer in the next hour, but if you post after you see this, I will not be answering your questions until tomorrow PM. Up & at 'em early with the Wyoming Cowboys, so I need some beauty rest-peace

In comment 13433717 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Okay guys, got a few questions to answer in the next hour, but if you post after you see this, I will not be answering your questions until tomorrow PM. Up & at 'em early with the Wyoming Cowboys, so I need some beauty rest-peace

Ooooh, fun! Gonna see some Josh Allen and Brian Hill!

I have a question...
CMicks3110 : 7:52 pm : link : reply
I know, from reading some of your posts, that you're not a fan combine numbers or pro day numbers as being the end all be all and I get that. But I'm curious, there are a ton of players that have all the athletic gifts in the world that are picked up later in the draft, what is it that separates the really good players from the run of the mill player who possesses the exact same physical traits.

For example, Owa Odighizuwa looks like a beast tested like one, but has had no impact in games whatsoever. He may not be the best example because you can easily point to perhaps his passion for the game. But is it just a lack of technique? Are they not intelligent enough to learn? Do they lack instincts? Is it fearlessness or confidence? I just would be curious, having talked to these players, what really separates them?
ANSWER
The makings of a good scout is that “it” factor. Sure, the first two days of the draft, the entire organization is in consensus, but that third day, or after the draft is done & time to cherry-pick the leftovers, that scout has to go into attack mode. There is going to be a room full of analysts citing their guy. What makes yours so different? Convicted enough, convinced enough, determined to see that guy on your team? Prove it, show me what you got. Ammo brutha, the art of scouting? To me, I paint a picture with my reports, I want that position coach to step into the film room with my charts to see everything my eyes saved him the effort for finding. I then attack the coordinator – hey, your coach really likes this guy, check this out. Going up the food chain well before anyone gets into the war room (generally, once a season ends for an NFL team that contracts with me, I am spilling info to the position coach – he has to be the one happy with that player and I have to make him see what that player fits – production or not. My neck is on the line. If I tout Joe Blow and he blows it, hey, that coach is not going to lend me an ear the next time around. There’s just too many variables and each and every scout has his own witches brew. Me? I’m very analytical. Numbers, production count, but I stay on campuses for days, watching practices. Hey, in Blue Grass Country, you can see that one-year old & know in two years, he could be in the Derby. That’s what I enjoy the most.
Hell, if you ever meet Ike Taylor, the ONLY player to carry Dan Rooney’s body at the funeral the other day, ask him about me & my commitment to him. I am not only proud of the player he became, but the man he was, even as a boy. I discovered him, third string wide receiver with no hands (see receiver in the movie Necessary Roughness) at Louisiana-Lafayette. Oh he was an athletic work of art. A few boxes of doughnuts to his coaches during spring drills got his coach to heed a suggestion by me – coach, let’s see him cover a guy.
Charles Tillman, the main draw back then at ULL was an All-American corner. Ike lines up on the opposite side. Twelve passes his way in practice and not one receiver caught one. For his senior year, 89 targets, just 9 completions, four picks and 15 PBUs. Oh, and my “Crash Gordon,” who never played a down of defense, even in peewee league, finishes second on his team with 91 tackles.
You’d think the kid was Combine bound. Nah, he’s not a player, they tell me. No prob-VHS recorder in hand (hey, this is 12-13 years ago & I’m old school), I take Ike to New Orleans to coach Tom Shaw’s training facility. Shaw is the guy whose rep started after he trained Deion Sanders & heaped with total respect from the league.
On a grass track, Ike takes off in the 40. 4.19 flashes. No freaking way. Run Two 4.17. Hey, I have something here. I put him through all the agilities, take the film & head for Indy. Hey, there’s a few scouting directors at St. Elmo’s, let me treat them to a round. Out comes the credit card, out comes the VHS, out pops everyone’s eyes. 262 NFL personnel show up for ULL’s Pro Day that year. Charles Tillman? Yes, they wanted to see him, but crazy Ike shows up and starts handing out a few dozen t-shirts he had made up for the scouts. Big head and all on the front and “I Like Ike” on the shirt. Kid goes out on the track – 4.22/4.20 that day. He’s a Steeler for life, a class act that can’t be matched and gave this scout one fine moment after another. Still to this day, I do a weekly show with him and reporter John Harris. To me? It’s just me talking to my son.

Who were some prospects you thought would be turds...
Milton : 8:47 pm : link : reply
...but instead became stars?
ANSWER
Get back to me after the draft. I'm on the tailend of a six-week road trip for spring drills. I do not carry archive info with me & at this hour of the night, I'm lucky if I recall even my own name! thanks

Ha! Remembered one, possibly because it was recent - Ha-Ha. Yup, dogged the hell out of that guy the Packers took. Very immature & I was seeing another Trent Richardson/Dee Milliner "you owe me" attitude from him. I guess he got his hienie straightened out in GB, because he's an all-pro level player now.
PS-I did dog the hell out of the other two Bama guys mentioned here, along with Lacy

Dave, I'd love to hear what you think of my mock as far as how
Anakim : 11:24 pm : link : reply
ANSWER
Sorry, I am not into mocks. Wanna know about a guy, cool. But to me, mocks are like fantasy football - what for? Yeah, I'll get killed for that, but the old timers on BBI know I let my staff do the draft stuff & I handle the scouting. Sure, I might toss out a round on a guy, but whether or who the Giants pick? I take the 3-year approach & see what develops-sorry

Question for the 2018 NFL Draft
Anakim : 11:26 pm : link : reply
As of April 19, 2017, how would you rank the following QBs and their potential fit with the Giant:
Sam Darnold...Josh Allen...Josh Rosen...Lamar Jackson
Luke Falk...Mason Rudolph
TWO-PART ANSWER
Based on the scheme McAdoo runs, I say Darnold, Allen
Based my pecking order after attending each & everyone's spring;
Sam Darnold (real close to getting only the third perfect score I've ever handed out)
Josh Allen (if Darnold stays in school, Allen is the #1 pick in 2018)
Lamar Jackson (electric type of player, the one who I see as a perfect New Orleans Saint in 2018)
Max Browne-Pittsburgh (my darkhorse. Either Peterman is as good as some of my scouts are saying or he had dirty pictures on his coach to keep Browne second string last year)
Toss between Rudolph & Mayfield-yeah, Mayfield is short, but the guy is almost as exciting to watch as Jackson & small guy be dammed - look at Brees & Wilson
The rest-not in my top 5

In comment 13431802 robbieballs2003 said:

Quote:

In comment 13431797 nflscouting said: Quote: Hey Dave kelsto811 : 10:31 am : link : reply Really enjoy your insight. I'm gonna reach here and ask if you know anything about WR Dalton Crossan. He was at our Showcase and showed up, obviously a more likely I drafted guy but curious if you had a chance to review him and your thoughts on his potential with an NFL club? Thanks in advance. Fox Sports Article - ( New Window ) ANSWER That freaking RKO reporter stole my line! I told scouts while I was there that this kid is the purr-fect Patriot, like Edelman & Hogan, White & the rest of those motley crew of versatile guys. I was actually there to get a look on the safety, Casey DeAndrade, but Crosson blew me away. He tore Lehigh up for three scores & 184 yards on 24 runs, but boy, that TD catch inside the 10 was sweet! I stood around for the Maine game & he reals off a 35-yard TD scamper that saw him break five tackles. You know Bill – if not drafted, nothing good gets past him out of New England. UNH has not had a talent like him in years. Shame the conference only thought he was worth second team honors. I coached him in high school. If memory serves me correctly we won a game 73-72 and I think he had 8 TDs. It was one of the craziest games ever. He was just on a different level than everybody else. He was so much quicker than everybody that he just looked like he was jogging half the time. We ran a flex bone offense. It is great to see him having this success. He has a younger brother Trent that was awesome too. Both brothers transferred to the school at the same time. Dalton was a junior and Trent was a freshman. Dalton also started at corner and Trent started at LB. Dalton was a RB but asked the coaches to play QB because all we did was run the ball all the time so he learned to play QB in one offseason and was a monster because he touched the ball every play.

Thanks Dave! Robbie...that's really awesome to hear, I'm sure you will be following his path, as will I. Like I said, he really showed up at the all star event we ran and was getting just as much attention as the highly touted players at the event from the pro scouts. No doubt he gets an opportunity and I wouldn't mind if it was with the Giants as an UDFA

I see you have mentioned "3 Year approach" a few times now and also your concentration on Offensive Line. We are past year 3 of Richburg and Pugh and coming on year 3 for Flowers. It would be interesting to hear how you scouted them originally and now that you have benefit of hindsight, how you think where they are now lined up with your original assessment? And if you had lineman rated higher than them who were still available when we picked that have matched your original expectations?

Thanks! Joe

Leonard Fournette, Solomon Thomas, Malik Hooker or your number one guy Adams (the consensus top guys)... What one or two guys in this entire draft can have the biggest impact or become the best of all the other players in the class, specifically playing for the Giants, even if you dont see them being availible at 23?

to both you and Sy. Coming from someone who has been absolutely enamored by the scouting business since middle school, you two are right up there if not higher than any of my go-to scouts for insights, and for that a massive thanks to both of you for the info and time.

Haven't seen much been asked or said regarding Malik McDowell, Michigan State. My apologies if this was already discussed. I've heard projections all over the map for this kid -- top 15 to 3rd round -- mainly due to character concerns and extreme inconsistency on the field. Inconsistency, character aside, his movement, athleticism, bend, natural strength all seem to point to a pretty high ceiling. Thoughts on McDowell? Thanks again

Thanks for all of the time you put into providing this for us.

How about a report on WR Taywan Taylor? He looks like he has a healthy Victor Cruz type game. What are your thoughts on his NFL potential? Where do you see him going in this draft?

Two guys I don't think are getting enough love, Joshua Dobbs and Jonnu Smith. Any thoughts on them?

These are more general questions based on your other responses. It seems like you have your own scouting business and, if that is true, how does that work? Do teams hire you or your company like an independent contractor or are you still affiliated with a particular team? It sounds like you are independent but I was under the assumption that teams had their own scouting departments.

And how do the Bengals work? If I remember correctly they have the smallest scouting department. They also had a stretch where they were drafting pretty good. Why? Was it a situation where less cooks in the kitchen led to kess fuck ups?

Thanks and I apologize for all of these questions but the more you give us the more we want. Lol.

I will get into scouting in detail after the draft. Since 1973, NFL Scouting is contracted to 26 of the teams in the league and I have a staff in place with scouts assigned to regions.

Hey folks, if I did not get to your questions today, I will do so tomorrow. I have a last minute request to get to Simon Fraser to work out a linebacker, so, off to the flying skies

In comment 13434762 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Hey folks, if I did not get to your questions today, I will do so tomorrow. I have a last minute request to get to Simon Fraser to work out a linebacker, so, off to the flying skies

Ohhhhh Canada

What do you think of BYU RB Jamaal Williams? I think he'll be an absolute steal on Day 3.

Herdman.

Hi Dave, and thanks for all the great insight you have given!
joeinct : 8:40 am : link : reply
I see you have mentioned "3 Year approach" a few times now and also your concentration on Offensive Line. We are past year 3 of Richburg and Pugh and coming on year 3 for Flowers. It would be interesting to hear how you scouted them originally and now that you have benefit of hindsight, how you think where they are now lined up with your original assessment? And if you had lineman rated higher than them who were still available when we picked that have matched your original expectations?
ANSWER
Oh buddy, I can’t fully answer this until after the draft, as I will have to back to notes at the complex & I am on the road right now looking at 2018 draft eligibles. I do know my thoughts back then on Richburg, because I scouted him for three years. Some teams were convinced he was a reserve guard, but he had that Tim Grunhard-get-the-F-outta-my-way attitude that I liked.
It’s not my scouting report, but in the league archives is the story that I published in The NFL Draft Report that year. Pugh was rated in the top ten at his position by my staff, but I don't have his report. Understand, I'm on the road, so please keep questions to this draft, not previous ones, thanks.

WESTON BLAINE RICHBURG
Offensive Center
Colorado State University Rams
#70
6:03.3-298
Bushland, Texas
Bushland High School

OVERVIEW
Richburg entered his senior season regarded as one of the best centers in the collegiate ranks and did nothing to disprove that assessment after yet another banner campaign. Often compared to former Pittsburgh Steelers pivot man, Jeff Hartings, the Rams center has been very durable, starting every game he played in during his college career.

Richburg has the classic frame to play center – squat, wide-bodied with a low center of gravity, along with the thick legs and strong anchor to hold ground firmly taking on the challenge of stalling the bull rush. He has impressive upper body strength, but unlike most centers, he has the balance and lateral agility normally seen in guards, making him a valuable second level blocker, as he fires off the snap and gets in front instantly leading on traps and pulls.

When the coaches arrive at the football complex, they are usually not the first person in attendance – it is Richburg. Whether it is working out in the weight room, sitting down to watch game films of upcoming opponents or simply mentoring the younger players, Richburg has been a steady presence in the locker room.

"There's always work to be done, always room to be better," Richburg said after going through a workout. "I look at it that if you get complacent, that's not good. I'm just trying to put good games together and hope that at the end of the season, I can look back and be proud of what I did."

The proliferation of new statistics hasn't reached the trenches, so it's still difficult to quantify an offensive lineman's individual proficiency beyond team statistics and the sometimes misleading and even suspect "sacks allowed" judgment. Evaluation often has to be taken on faith — including trusting the grading coaches — and subjected to the eye test.

"Weston Richburg, since I've come here, has taken probably as big of a step as anybody," Colorado State head coach Jim McElwain said. "He's made himself not only a huge leader for us and this football team, but has made himself relevant when it comes to the next level. He's handled all the guys that we've gone against."

Throughout his senior season, Richburg received blocking consistency grades of 90% or better in four contests, delivering 92 knockdowns/key blocks to pace Mountain West Conference blockers with an overall 85.08% grade. Seven of his seventeen touchdown-resulting blocks came down field, lending some NFL teams to seriously consider him as a guard prospect, in addition to eyeing him at center.

Richburg has shown “pedigree” and versatility throughout his career, having played guard and tackle as well during his CSU career. McElwain toyed with sliding Richburg out of the center's spot during the 2013 season if it made the offensive line better as a unit, but was convinced he was too valuable serving as the unit’s anchor at center.

"When they talk about my versatility, I think they're talking about that I can play wherever they need me to play," Richburg said. "I think if somebody gets hurt, we have guys who are capable, but I'm able and willing to go play any position. ... I've talked to some guys (about the NFL) and they've said that a guy was only a center, and he went into camp and was going against a guy who could play center and guard, and the center-only guy might be a better center than the other guy. But they're going to keep the guy who plays guard and center, so it's really valuable to be trying to do as much as I can."

Richburg was born in Louisville, Kentucky, later moving to Bushland, Texas, where he was a standout lineman at Bushland High School. He began his gridiron career taking snaps from under center, as a quarterback, also playing linebacker during his freshman season. A growth spurt prior to his sophomore campaign saw him convert to the line, playing on both sides of the ball.

As a senior, the team captain helped lead the Falcons to a flawless 10-0 regular season record en route to capturing the district title. He recorded two sacks as a senior defensive lineman and earned first-team All-District honors as an offensive lineman. His gridiron career at BHS ended after the team lost in the first round of the Class 2A Division I play-offs to eventual state champ Muleshoe High in 2008.

Richburg also lettered in basketball and track at Bushland High. He still holds the
school record in the shot put with a throw of 60 feet, 1 inch, the fourth-best throw by a Texas prep athlete in any classification and worthy of the Texas Class 2A gold medal. He was also was a hurdler on his track team earlier in high school.

Richburg only received a two-star prospect grade from Rivals.com, but the National Honor Society member graduated with a 3.4 grade point average and decided to leave home and enroll at Colorado State University, despite a scholarship offer from local Texas Christian.
He red-shirted as a freshman in 2009, but even before he suited up for the football team’s varsity in 2010, he competed on the Rams’ track team, recording a season-best 51’-6 ½” toss at the Don Barrett Duals to finish third in that event.

Richburg earned Freshman All-American honors in 2010, starting every game. He began the year as the strong-side offensive guard, but took over center duties for the final nine contests. He allowed just one sack and no quarterback pressures while posting 54 knock-downs as the Rams ranked 24th in the nation with 4,022 yards in total offense.

Richburg was one of just four sophomores named to the Rimington Trophy Watch List in 2011. He earned All-Mountain West Conference second-team honors while starting every game at center. Injuries during several contests would see him slide to offensive tackle, though. In the San Diego State clash, he got his snapping hand caught on a defender’s jersey, suffering a fracture.

He went to the locker room and returned after being fitted for a cast. The coaches thought he would miss a month of action, but the next week, vs. Texas Christian, Richburg was back in the lineup, mostly playing at strong-side tackle. In his final two contests, he snapped vs. Air Force and Wyoming using his left hand, but sustained the first bad snap of his career vs. the Cowboys, ending a string of 1,179 successful snaps.

Richburg extended his consecutive starts string to thirty-six games in 2012, as the Rimington Trophy, Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award candidate served as team captain. He helped the Rams collected 4,068 yards in total offense, as he did not allow any of the thirty sacks given up by the front wall. He led the front wall with 64 knockdowns and delivered touchdown-resulting blocks on nine of the twelve scores recorded by the ground game.

Named All-American first-team and All-Mountain West Conference first-team as a senior, Richburg cleared out rush lanes for seventeen of the team’s 28 touchdown runs. He led a spirited blocking effort up front, as the twenty-two sacks yielded by the offensive line was the lowest figure at CSU since the 2003 squad was charged with eighteen sacks. The Rams offense boasted the only unit in the Football Bowl Subdivision that featured a 1,500-yard rusher (Kapri Bibbs) and a 3,200-yard passer (Garrett Grayson) during the 2013 campaign.

Invited to play in the 2014 Senior Bowl, Richburg was clearly the standout of the four centers in attendance. He impressed NFL decision makers with his ability to anchor and handle powerful bull-rushers, as well as display impressive agility in getting to the second level. The Rams prospect is certain to become the first Colorado State offensive lineman to be selected in the NFL Draft since Shelley Smith in 2010. Since the 1943 draft, only eleven CSU offensive linemen have been selected in the draft, with Bill Leer, an 11th round pick by Atlanta in 1979, the only Rams center to hear his name called.

CAREER NOTES
Richburg started every game (fifty) during his career, a school record, lining up at center forty-five times, at strong-side guard during the first three games of his career and in two contests at strong-side tackle in 2011…Recorded 273 knockdown blocks…Has had just one bad snap on 3,382 offensive plays…Registered thirty-nine touchdown-resulting blocks through four seasons.

SEASON ANALYSIS
2013 SEASON
Richburg garnered All-American second-team honors from The NFL Draft Report…The All-Mountain West Conference first-team selection was also a candidate for the Rimington Trophy (third time), Outland Trophy (second time) and Lombardi Award (second time)...
Started all fourteen games at center, recording a blocking consistency grade of 85.08%, as he delivered 92 key blocks/knockdowns (45) that included seventeen touchdown-resulting blocks and seven blocks down field…Helped propel Colorado State to the most productive offensive performance in school history...The Rams averaged 470.8 yards per game in total offense, as Richburg led a blocking effort that yielded just 22 sacks, the lowest figure since the Rams’ 2003 unit allowed eighteen sacks…Blocked for the nation's eighth-leading runner Kapri Bibbs, who rushed for 1,741 yards and NCAA-best 31 touchdowns, as those 31 scoring runs also represent a CSU and Mountain West season- record...The Rams' rushing attack averaged 204.36 rushing yards per game, their highest average since 2002 (205.7)...Behind Richburg and his linemates, Garrett Grayson threw for the most yards in a single season in program history (3,696)...Grayson is only the fourth Ram quarterback to thrown for 3,000-plus yards in a season...Leader of the only offense in NCAA FBS to produce a 3,200-yard passer and 1,500-yard rusher this season...The Rams' offense compiled the most yards (6,591), the second-most points in a season (507) and second-most touchdowns (61) in CSU history.

2012 SEASON
For the second consecutive year, Richburg was named a candidate for the Rimington Trophy, an award given annually to the nation's most outstanding center, and was also named to the Outland Trophy (best interior lineman) and Rotary Lombardi Award (top lineman or linebacker) preseason watch lists...Started at center in all twelve games for the Rams...Named the nation's 17th-best interior lineman by Yahoo Sports...Ended the year with a team-leading 36 consecutive starts...Was an All-Mountain West Conference honor-able mention…The Rams coaches and teammates named Richburg one of four squad captains…Consistently graded out above 90%, leading the offensive line...Led the offensive line unit in knockdown blocks (55) and was penalty-free all season, helping the Rams generate 4,068 yards in total offense (339.0 ypg).




2011 SEASON
A Rimington Trophy candidate, Richburg was one of four sophomores to receive that honor…Was the anchor of the Rams' offensive line and started all twelve games - ten at center and two at strong-side offensive tackle, earning second-team All-Mountain West Conference accolades…Ended the year with a share of the team's longest streak of consecutive starts, 24 (became the team's longest active stretch after the graduation of offensive guard Jake Gdowski)...Selected first-team midseason all-conference by CollegeFootballNews.com on Oct. 21...Showed his versatility during fall camp, with occasional reps at tackle on an injury-depleted line...In CSU’s loss vs. Colorado, he made a lead block on a 34-yard Crockett Gillmore screen that set up the game's first touchdown, then on a second-half touchdown drive, he threw a nice block to spring Raymond Carter for 16 yards...With twelve minutes remaining in fourth quarter of a windy, 18-15 loss vs. San Diego State, Richburg got his snapping hand caught on a defender's jersey and broke a bone. He went to the locker room to cast the injury and could've returned, but sat out the remaining minutes...Spent the week before CSU's trip to Texas Christian snapping with his left hand while practicing at tackle, and made his first career start at strong-side tackle in the Frogs contest, playing the entire game there, keeping alive a streak of consecutive starts...Returned to start at center in the season finale vs. Wyoming, snapping with his left hand, but sustained the first bad snap of his career, breaking a string of 1,179 successful snaps.

2010 SEASON
Richburg earned first-team Freshman All-American honors from The NFL Draft Report, Phil Steele and CollegeFootballNews.com…Also named honorable-mention All-Mountain West Conference…Started all twelve games for the Rams, the first three at guard and the final nine at center...The former high-school quarterback, had not played center before his freshman season at CSU, but did not have a bad snap all season and allowed only one sack all year, and no other pressures...Posted a team-high 54 knockdown blocks and also led the team with 22 outstanding efforts and 12 "Meyer mauls," the coveted game-film award distributed by former offensive coordinator/line coach Pat Meyer...Graded out at 85 percent or better in every contest, and was the line's most valuable player on eight occasions.

2009 SEASON
Richburg red-shirted as a true freshman in his first season of college eligibility...He participated on the CSU track & field team in the spring, finishing third at the Don Barrett Duals with a 16-pound shot put toss of 51’-6 ½”…Also recorded a 50’-0 25/64” toss for the Rams at the Mountain West Conference Championships.

INJURY REPORT
2011 Season…Suffered a broken bone in his snapping (right) hand vs. San Diego State, but did not miss any games, opting to snap with his left hand in the season finale vs. Wyoming.

AGILITY TESTS
5.10 in the 40-yard dash…2.97 10-yard dash…1.84 20-yard dash…4.63 20-yard shuttle…
7.93 three-cone drill…25 ½-inch vertical jump…8’-10” broad jump…Bench pressed 225 pounds 25 times…33 3/8-inch arm length…9 ¼-inch hands…78 7/8-inch wingspan.

HIGH SCHOOL
Richburg attended Bushland (Tex.) High School, playing football for head coach David Flowers…Began his career as a quarterback, also playing linebacker during his freshman season, but a growth spurt prior to his sophomore campaign saw him convert to the line, playing on both sides of the ball…As a senior, the team captain helped lead the Falcons to a flawless 10-0 regular season record en route to capturing the district title…Recorded two sacks as a senior defensive lineman and earned first-team All-District honors as an offensive lineman…His gridiron career at BHS ended after the team lost in the first round of the Class 2A Division I play-offs to eventual state champ Muleshoe High in 2008…Also
lettered in basketball and track…Still holds the school record in the shot put with a throw of 60 feet, 1 inch, the fourth-best throw by a Texas prep athlete in any classification and worthy of the Texas Class 2A gold medal…Also was a hurdler on his track team earlier in high school…Only received a two-star prospect grade from Rivals.com, but the National Honor Society member graduated with a 3.4 grade point average.

PERSONAL
Richburg graduated with a bachelor's degree in animal science, and is presently pursuing a second degree while playing his final season in 2013...Two relatives played football at Texas Tech, Nathan and Aubrey Richburg...A member of the National Honor Society... Helped members of the Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County with homework and reading, and also participated in the club's sports programs in March before the 2010 season...Has made several appearances visiting with developmentally disabled kids at Respite Care of Fort Collins, in February 2010, February 2011 and July 2011...For a month during the summer of 2010, interacted with low-income Linton Elementary students at a local clubhouse, in conjunction with the Larimer County Food Bank, Fort Collins Recreation and Vineyard church...Son of Ruth and Danny Richburg…Born Weston Blaine Richburg on 7/09/91 in Louisville, Kentucky…Resides in Bushland, Texas.

Outside of Myles Garrett
est1986 : 9:10 am : link : reply
Leonard Fournette, Solomon Thomas, Malik Hooker or your number one guy Adams (the consensus top guys)... What one or two guys in this entire draft can have the biggest impact or become the best of all the other players in the class, specifically playing for the Giants, even if you dont see them being availible at 23?
ANSWER
I’d prefer to get back to this question after the guys are selected, if that’s cool. Here’s why, if you read my format, I operated on a 3-year analysis when a talent hits the pro ranks (scroll back somewhere above).
Now, Fournette looks great as a draftee, but what happens if let’s say, he ends up in Green Bay & Rodgers continues to play 90% pass. Fournette is not a great value to them as he would be if with Jacksonville, where T. Coughlin (anyone that thinks Marrone is running the joint, ha) loves the big back, get Leonard on the SI front cover.
Now, after the draft, I can give you a feel for who wears the glass slipper or not.
Off the top of my head, if cards fall right, Mahomes is the guy that I would pay to go see. I just like that kid – cocky, yet so willing to absorb. Another QB that caught my attention as a guy in the right system (why do I feel Jay Gruden will draft him) is Brad Kaaya sometime going on Day 2. The best athlete in this class? Oh, if I can get him a patient teacher, I’d love to get Bucky Hodges in the mid rounds.

Great thread here Dave.
KWALL2 : 2:56 pm : link : reply
Thanks for all of the time you put into providing this for us.

How about a report on WR Taywan Taylor? He looks like he has a healthy Victor Cruz type game. What are your thoughts on his NFL potential? Where do you see him going in this draft?
ANSWER
Not a draft guy, I'm a scout. I'd take him in 2, most say 3, but not my biz. Here's excerpts from what I do;
Athletic Ability 1.1 Taylor has the timed speed to threaten the deep areas of the secondary, but with his strength and ability to shield the ball from defenders, he has been very effective as a possession receiver. He uses his hands well to defeat the jam at the line of scrimmage and has the loose hips and crisp cutting ability to make the initial tackler miss and gain separation after the catch. He is very good at settling underneath, showing the balance and body control to make the shoestring grabs or extend to catch outside his frame. He is very flexible in his route progression, showing the stop-&-go action to instantly redirect. He has the valid burst to get on top of the defense and shows nice body control adjusting to the deep ball in flight. He has the hip flexibility to drop his weight and the balance to change his stride without having to throttle down.
Release 1.1 Taylor might get a little bit erect in his stance coming off the snap, but he has that ability to get into his routes instantly, using his hands with force to push off the press. He is too strong to jam at the line of scrimmage and uses his hip swerve efficiently to avoid defenders to get into his route progression. He can elude second level defenders with his cutting ability and shows a fluid glide in his running style.
Acceleration 1.2 Taylor is used a lot on shallow and wheel routes, as he has the strength to power his way to the ball in the crowd. He has the long reach to get under the fades and bubble screens and when utilized in crossing patterns, he can turn up field in an instant after the catch. He has made steady improvement extending for the ball with defenders all over him, and is effective at dropping his hips and separating out of his cuts. He has outstanding hand/eye coordination, seeing the ball as it arrives while generating the moves needed to uncover. On deep routes, he needs to utilize his second gear more and he will drift at times when going long distances. He has good turning motion to catch the ball over his outside shoulder, but does not turn as quick when having to look the ball in over his inside shoulder. He has that functional burst to separate at the line of scrimmage, but must utilize it more in attempts to separate on deep routes.
Quickness 1.2 Taylor’s short area quickness allows him to get to quite a few balls in the short-to-intermediate areas. He has the loose hips and acceleration to ride up on a defender, but could be more sudden trying to separate on deep throws. When he keeps his pads down instead of getting erect in his stance, he is much more effective at gaining and eating up the defensive back’s cushion.
Separation Ability 1.3 Because he is used so often on short-to-intermediate routes than in the deep area game, it is difficult to get a true feel for his separation ability. He does a good job of running at a proper pad level and coming out of his breaks cleanly when working underneath. With his timed speed, he should be capable of getting open in the deep zone more often. He uses his size well to shade the defender and demonstrates the balance and body control to catch the ball and turn up field without having to break stride.
Ball Concentration 1.1 Few receivers have that keen sense of where to be on the field that Taylor displays. He is always alert to coverages and where his defender is. He does a fine job of keeping his feet when catching along the sidelines and plays with uncanny instincts to find the zone’s soft areas. The thing you see on film is his ability to adjust to the thrown ball underneath. He has the speed to get open when working in a crowd and blocks out all activity around him to concentrate on the ball in flight, knowing how to use his long reach and hands to extend and catch the pass at its highest point.
Hands 1.3 Taylor has good hand strength to gain position as a blocker and uses his upper body power well to defeat the jam and get into his routes. He will cradle a few balls, but when he extends for the pass, he will generally get to most throws. He is a natural hands catcher with the ball skills to make plays on it outside of his frame. He just needs to improve his ability to look the ball in over his shoulder on deep routes.

In comment 13435015 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Off the top of my head, if cards fall right, Mahomes is the guy that I would pay to go see. I just like that kid – cocky, yet so willing to absorb. Another QB that caught my attention as a guy in the right system (why do I feel Jay Gruden will draft him) is Brad Kaaya sometime going on Day 2.

I don't mean to miller, but I was intrigued by Mahomes (and even ready to get onboard with him as the 23rd pick) until I read this quote on PFT...

Quote:

“I feel like a lot of coaches like me, but especially coach O’Brien. I think my personality and how real I am, those are things beyond what I can do on the field that he likes,” Mahomes said, via NFL.com. “It seemed like the way I was answering questions, I think he knew that I knew what was going on. You can tell when coaches have a confidence in you.”

Call me old-fashioned but it's a major turn-off when someone brags about how "real" they are. As for Brad Kaaya, he's my favorite QB in the draft. If the Giants could get him with the 87th pick that would be great.

Hey guys, this is fun, but I need everybody to follow a few simple rules. I am on the road and will be for ten more days. I am scouting 2018 talent. I am not on the road with 50 years of history in my back pocket.
Please keep the questions to player ability, performance, etc. I can not answer where he's going in the draft. I can tell you what schemes the guy fits, but the last I checked, 32 other guys make the draft decision.
Do not ask me what my scouting report was on Joe Blow from 5 years ago, Giant or no Giant. Again, I am on the road, traveling with whatever I need to accomplish the assignment at hand.
And oh-dear God, try to keep the question to one or two guys. I got a few that looked like the guys were sending me a freaking lineup card. That's dribble down your shirt time bros, and I like to keep my shirts clean.
I am not into fantasy FB & won't delve into those questions, nor will I answer mock drafts. You have "what is it to be a scout" questions, hold them off until after the draft. It is very detailed, complicated & what works for me, might not work for the next guy.
I appreciate respecting my wishes. As you can see from this thread, I need bus fare just to get to the bottom of it. Sorry if I offend some here, but I came on board late & just trying to limit to what I know best - evaluation of the football player.
peace

I just wanted to say thank you and God Bless You.

Amazing thread, love all these insights!
AdamBrag : 5:09 pm : link : reply
Two guys I don't think are getting enough love, Joshua Dobbs and Jonnu Smith. Any thoughts on them?
ANSWER
Adam, I like you, I really like you. Both of those players are held in high esteem by me. If the football gods shine bright, the SMARTEST QB in this draft will either be a Viking or a Brown - Mr. Dobbs. I'm not convinced Bridgewater can make it back & feel Dobbs has that Russell Wilson-plus ability. He's uncanny rolling out of the pocket & the way they used Bridgewater can be amped up with Dobbs, especially with that ball flows off his fingers on posts & screens.
Smith is coming along at just the right time, as the TE position has evolved into those Reed/Ebron/Vern Davis needs for teams. I know the Saints have done tons of homework on him.

Dave
Anakim : 7:48 pm : link : reply
What do you think of BYU RB Jamaal Williams? I think he'll be an absolute steal on Day 3.
ANSWER
Nice player, but the Day three steal at this position is going to be another Williams - Joe out of Utah!

Max Browne wasn't eligible to play at Pitt last year. He was USC's starting qb at the beginning of last season. Browne isn't very athletic and can't elude a strong rush.

You gotta see him in camp this year. Narduzzi must have had that kid with a dance coach. Reminds me of Cousins the way he gets through his progressions & he seems to be very confident throwing on the move from either side. I think the year to absorb worked well for him. Narduzzi's OC, Matt Canada, is the type of QB coach that is known for developing average guys. Look at the difference in Peterman, even from the start of the season until the end.
Look around the NFL & a lot of QBs get by on their savvy & intelligence over sheer athleticism. Browne's going to be a guy in the Dalton/Cousins class, but I bet you he has a hell of a year this season.
Still, hands down, no arguement, the USC kid & the Wyoming Cowboy are going to make next year (if Darnold declares) another 1-2 QB draft.

Which LBs, if added to the Giants defense, is really going to get after the passer? We havent had a good pass rusher from the LB spot in a while.

Thanks for the all the info. Appreciated.
est1986 : 11:27 pm : link : reply
Which LBs, if added to the Giants defense, is really going to get after the passer? We havent had a good pass rusher from the LB spot in a while.
ANSWER
If the football gods shine, TJ Watt & Bowser are the perfect fits, but Minnesota is getting a big luv fest going on Watt & the Lions have been all over Bowser. I'm getting vibes as teams start finalizing their boards that these two will be gone by #23 though.
If options on Day 2 are all the Giants can hope for, I feel Rivers-Youngstown State can play second level 3-4, but not Basham in that role.
He's not a true sleeper, but whether he's a Giant next year or not, I feel Ryan Anderson will outperform both Foster & Williams during their NFL careers.
Also, on Day Three, Carroll Phillips-Illinois got Big Blue's attention, but I hope they open up there eyes on a stud out their in Round 4/5 that can play all 3 roles in the LB unit-Oklahoma's Jordan Evans. I see a lot of Stan Lee (minus the injury factor) in him ^ Phillips is like a Michael Coley type

Max was the Gatorade Offensive player of the Year a few years back. I'll very surprised to see him nimble but I wish him well. Was a good soldier at USC but it was obvious to everyone at USC's spring practice last season that Darnold was by far the batter talent. Helton thought he owed Browne the opportunity to play since it was "his turn" after backing up Kessler for years. BTW, I would not be surprised if Darnold does not come out after next season.

How good of a fit would would Dalvin Tomlinson DT BAMA fit with the gmen, I'd love to know your take on him. Time permitting (I'm crazy I know) Could I pry one more and inquire about Jaleel Johnson DT IOWA?

I just want to say thank you for your great insights. I don't want to ask any questions. Please keep up the great work. I hope after the draft you can take a little time off from scouting and enjoy other things in life. You deserve it.

Darnold is thisclose to getting the highest grade I gave a QB since Elway. Josh Allen will be a Big Ben type, but next year has a good crop of talent to get any QB-needy or aged QB team busy visiting campuses. Still, my favorite character to watch is Louisville's Jackson - its fun watching the D miss so many tackles on him. If this was next year & Cleveland still does not have a QB, Jackson is a perfect fit for Hue in the Dawg Pound

Why remove the sticky on this thread?

Dave...thanks for the detailed reply on Taylor. It wouldn't surprise me if Taylor was the best WR in this class because of this Cruz like skill you mentioned: "stop-&-go action to instantly redirect". He's certainly a tough cover because of it.

In comment 13435550 KWALL2 said:

Quote:

Why remove the sticky on this thread? Dave...thanks for the detailed reply on Taylor. It wouldn't surprise me if Taylor was the best WR in this class because of this Cruz like skill you mentioned: "stop-&-go action to instantly redirect". He's certainly a tough cover because of it.

Because it's getting cumbersome and because we are preparing for another Dave Te Thomas event

If not.....

!!!

Would love to hear more details on what you like about him.

Cumbersome for the readers? Its only 3 pages.

This is some of the best content we've had here this year. Way too early to drop it. Too many stickys? Drop the 2 mock draft threads from the top.

We have a 40 year vet of scouting giving us details and reports on players. What's better than that right now?

Bad move dropping it now. It should be up there for as long as Dave is OK with it.

In comment 13436327 KWALL2 said:

Quote:

We have a 40 year vet of scouting giving us details and reports on players. What's better than that right now? It should be up there for as long as Dave is OK with it.

It would be a shame if Dave opened the page and didn't see it because it was buried.

In comment 13436327 KWALL2 said:

Quote:

Cumbersome for the readers? Its only 3 pages. This is some of the best content we've had here this year. Way too early to drop it. Too many stickys? Drop the 2 mock draft threads from the top. We have a 40 year vet of scouting giving us details and reports on players. What's better than that right now? Bad move dropping it now. It should be up there for as long as Dave is OK with it.

Agreed. The BBI Mock Threads have been pinned for 18 days. Anyone who is participating in those threads aren't going to lose their place or need a reminder.

Has anyone asked about Max Rich yet?
Milton : 2:23 pm : link : reply
If not.....
And Brad Kaaya?
Milton : 5:14 pm : link : reply
Would love to hear more details on what you like about him.
ANSWER
QUICK SCOUTING REPORT EXCERPTS-RICH
Body Structure Rich has a tall frame with good overall muscle development and room to add at least another twenty-five pounds of bulk. He has a solid midsection, but also possesses small hands and feet for a player his size. He is a smooth-skinned type with a good bubble and calves, carrying his weight well.
General Report 1.36
Athletic Ability 1.5 Rich has developed good quickness to get into position, showing sudden moves in his kick slide. He has some of the lower body stiffness and is not a classic knee bender (more so at the waist), but has the balance to maintain position and stay on his feet. He is quick to redirect to the edge, which prevents defensive ends from attacking from the outside and he generates good force to wall off and sustain once he locks on with his hands.
Competitiveness 1.3 He is a sound technician who will not let his emotions get the better of him. You’d like to see more aggression in his play, but he’s the type that calculates every move. He makes a good effort to search out secondary targets and shows a willingness to get involved in the in-line action. He is quick to get in front on pulls and sweeps, doing a nice job of neutralizing the defender in the second level.
Work Habits 1.4 He is a good worker in the weight room, but could improve upon his lower body flexibility. He has excellent upper body strength and works hard to hold rush lanes and get a strong push off the line. He is a vocal team leader who is easy to coach.
Initial Quickness 1.5 He has improved his foot quickness off the line, getting into position effectively, but he will take false steps moving to the edge, which gets him behind the defender. Rich has an average first step and hand punch, but is not overpowering on extention, as he tends to catch defenders. However, he can use his hands to compensate and does position block well.
Lateral Movement 1.3 Even though he is not a classic knee bender, he stays square in his base and has good lateral agility.
Balance/Stays On Feet 1.4 He shows good balance in his base, doing an adequate job to readjust and mirror the defender. When he plays flat-footed, he generates a good lateral slide, but he has marginal flexibility, making him a step slow getting to the edge.
Explosion/Pop 1.6 He does not show flexibility in his hip snap and needs to improve his lower body power. When he gets high in his stance, he loses leverage. He will generally rely on his size to lean into the opponent in attempts to wall off.
Run Blocking 1.5 Due to a lack of knee bend, he has to rely on his size to create movement. He might struggle at times when changing direction, but his hand placement allows him to be dependable when attempting to sustain and finish.
Pass Blocking 1.2 He might take some false steps and get his leg base a bit narrow (crosses his feet), but he does have the balance needed to slide and make the cut-off block. He might get pushed back in the pocket some vs. the bull rush, but he will generally play with good awareness and hold his own, if he keeps his leg base wide.
Pulling/Trapping 1.5 Rich has the foot quickness and balance to play down the line, but the Crimson system does not require their tackles to work in-line much. He does get good position coming out of his stance and angles to impact. He can build to the next level, but struggles to square and adjust in space.
Adjust on Linebacker
Downfield 1.4 Due to only adequate upfield quickness, it is very important that he takes proper angles (which he usually does) in order to make the cut-off. When he stays up on his feet, he will generally finish the play.
Reactions/Awareness 1.3 He is very alert on the field, doing a nice job of picking up twists and stunts. He short sets well, but he will sometimes take false steps into his kick slide on deep sets. Rich also struggles with the quick edge and fast lateral movements.

SCOUTING REPORT EXCERPTS-KAAYA
Athletic Ability 1.3 Kaaya is a mobile passer who shows good slide and escape agility, but lacks the second gear to run long distances with the ball. He demonstrates good balance throwing across his body and the loose hips to get to the outside hashes. He has just adequate acceleration past the line of scrimmage, but does a good job of squaring his shoulders to break arm tackles. He appears to be built more in the lines of a pocket passer, but can avoid pressure rolling out.
Football Sense 1.1 Kaaya is a student of the game who sits in on coaches’ meetings and has the work ethic to study and break down game film. He has a bit of a gambler in him on the field, but does a good job of scanning the field. He is quick to make his decisions and has excellent poise to stand tall under the fierce rush He is not the type that will force the ball just for the sake of making the play. He calmly makes his progression reads and is alert to zone coverages. There is no question that he can handle and digest a complicated playbook, as he is perhaps the best quarterback in this draft when it comes to digesting the playbook..
Set Up 1.2 Kaaya has the quick retreat skills from center to get to his drop point and sets his feet well to be ready to throw. He has the body control to throw off-balance and shows good ability to pass on the move. Whether off the sprint or in drop-back action, he can easily scan the field and demonstrates a smooth follow-through motion.
Reading Defenses 1.1 Kaaya has a bit of gambler in him, but with his vision and patience in the pocket, he does a very good job of going through route progressions. You will not see him force his throws under pressure, but he does get into trouble with turnovers when he tries to throw long (had ten interceptions on deep throws last year). He sees the entire field, whether standing in the pocket or on the sprint. He is also quite innovative when the play breaks down and must be accounted for anytime he drives back from center.
Release 1.2 With his height and arm length, Kaaya’s over-the-top release gets the ball out with good quickness. He carries the ball chest high and is generally quick to get into position to throw. He has that quick wrist flick that gets the ball out effortlessly, but does need to improve his foot plant before throwing the deep ball. He gets rid of the ball on time and usually does so with a smooth motion.
Arm Strength 1.5 Kaaya is more effective when he keeps the ball in the short area, as he has much better velocity on his throws there. He lacks the arm strength to attack the deep secondary and most of his interceptions are the result of seeing his long tosses wobble or lose air. He will generally under-throw his targets when attacking the seam, but does show good zip working underneath.
Accuracy 1.3 When Kaaya operates in the short-to intermediate area, he shows much better timing on his attempts. He throws a tight spiral working underneath and does a good job of “threading the needle” when throwing into tight areas. He is precise throwing short on the move, as he does a good job of unleashing it across his body. He is also effective when passing off his back foot. However, when attacking the deep zone, his long throws tend to spray all over the field. His deep passes will flutter and die, allowing the defense to settle under it to make the interception.
Touch 1.4 Kaaya shows better touch when he drills the ball into the short area. He can throw on the run and keeps his receivers in their routes with minimal adjustment when working underneath. He just runs hot and cold when trying to air the ball out. In the short passing game, he knows how to take something off his tosses and vary its speed. Once he works on his deep timing and shows more consistency with the 4-5 cut, he will be more effective delivering the ball in a seam.
Pocket Movement 1.3 Kaaya is very alert to pocket pressure and takes advantage of his hip swerve to avoid the pass rush. He does take a sack rather than throw the ball away at times, but he is effective throwing on the roll-out. He has that peripheral vision that lets him quickly sense backside pressure, doing a nice job of stepping up to avoid.
Scrambling Ability 1.4 Kaaya might not win long distance foot races, but he is quite nimble moving out of the pocket and throwing on the run. He has very good balance that lets him get the ball out quickly, even when throwing without setting his feet first. He maintains his velocity and accuracy throwing to the short area from the outside hashes.

I seem to be hitting 99% of the questions, so keep them here to make life easier for me. I usually take Questions from my previous answer down.
If I did not answer your question, I either totally did not see it, or, you did not follow my request - no previous drafts (I am on the road, I don't take my library with me), no mock drafts, no freaking fantasy FB questions & please, don't correct my spelling. I'm trying to get to as many as I can, so keep the spell-check at home.

Dave, have you scouted Keith Hamiltons son? The injury really set him back. What do you think of him as an NFL prospect?

He went to the Giants local proday, was he able to give a full workout? If he did, how was his workout?

Darius Hamilton
KWALL2 : 9:33 pm : link : reply
Dave, have you scouted Keith Hamiltons son? The injury really set him back. What do you think of him as an NFL prospect?

He went to the Giants local proday, was he able to give a full workout? If he did, how was his workout?
ANSWER
Some say he's a day 3 guy, but my scout who was in there gave him a camp grade. Lo & behold, the kid proved the scout right at the Rutgers Pro Day. With the right knee thing in 2015 & then pulling up with both knees on March 10, I doubt he gets a call during the draft. Ran 5.06 that day checking in a 6:01.4, down from 283 during the season to 274. Arms were 32 7/8, wingspan hit 82 3/8, but had small hands (8 5/8). Ho hum
PS-my heavy 2017 class scouting was strictly out west - staff filled in otherwise, so on some players, I refer to their notes.
My current heavy hitting on the road is getting every ounce in before spring drills end. That could be why I consider this year's draft marginal, as the talent next year is the best I've seen in 35 years

Thanks!

Reading some of these OL scores, a 9 for Bolles, a 12 for Dawkins, a 16 for Robinson, would these be cause for concern?

Top Wonderlich scores are usually recorded by OL & QBs. WRs & DBs, well, they show their lack for cracking the books. The average grade is 20. Those #s by OL guys are going to come into play during draft decisions. Especially for OL guys, those scores tell me, as a position coach, that those players are going to require a whole lot more than a few reps to retain.

Guys, I understand the draft is rapidly approaching. Maybe it was my mistake to ask to keep Q&As here? I get in from my road trip & have two dozen messages at my email address. Last time guys- you email me there, unless I requested, you never get a response.
I sort of have "some work" to do this week & really don't care to read resumes or hear wishes of being a scout. Stepping forward, I gotta cut down on that. If it is Giants specific or this year's draft, keeping questions along those lines.
I think you see here that I've tried to get you as much info as I can, but those few that don't follow orders, well, it could lead to no response from me.

I once read from an anonymous scout that it was more important for interior OL to be smart than at OT. Would you agree with that?

My center is the SMARTEST guy, at least when it comes to recognition skills. You can always tell the mediocre centers - another lineman will call that team's blocking assignments.
Eyes & paws, brutha, that's what I want from my guards. They need to know when to widen the rush lane, locate second level targets on sweeps & pulls & also to be able to combo with the tackle or center.
Tackles, I look for big hands, lower leg flexibility (kick slide) and the ability to mirror. I am not a "bug juice" guy that will discount Lamp for short arms at left tackle, as no OL guy in this draft has the hand activity he does & only one (Asiata) has a stronger anchor

as WR prospect?

How about a report on Baker and the tall UCONN Safety? What do you think of these 2?

In comment 13437603 nflscouting said:

Quote:

My center is the SMARTEST guy, at least when it comes to recognition skills. You can always tell the mediocre centers - another lineman will call that team's blocking assignments. Eyes & paws, brutha, that's what I want from my guards. They need to know when to widen the rush lane, locate second level targets on sweeps & pulls & also to be able to combo with the tackle or center. Tackles, I look for big hands, lower leg flexibility (kick slide) and the ability to mirror. I am not a "bug juice" guy that will discount Lamp for short arms at left tackle, as no OL guy in this draft has the hand activity he does & only one (Asiata) has a stronger anchor

Lamp in round 1, Asiata in round 3 could help this Oline. Right Dave?

Two probs with that equation.
Pugh will have to move to right guard, as Asiata's footwork is that forward blast off the snap, not angling. With Lamp's ability to move laterally, it covers the area Asiata abandons on the outside pull. Pugh can't do that.
Second problem - if asiata lasts until the Giants pick in Round 3, Jerry Reese had dirty pictures on the other 31 GMs

Dave, first thank you for doing this. It is truly awesome! Sorry if I'm greedy with a couple of questions.

Are there any updates or changes on the current list of players in play at 23? I think last time you had Reddick, Bowser, Davis, Willis, Lamp.

Does Bolles checkered past give him a red flag on off the field issues?

If Foster drops to 23? Would he be considered?

DAVE - Giants current rumblings update and a couple of others.
Big Blue Hokie : 9:44 am : link : reply
Dave, first thank you for doing this. It is truly awesome! Sorry if I'm greedy with a couple of questions.

Are there any updates or changes on the current list of players in play at 23? I think last time you had Reddick, Bowser, Davis, Willis, Lamp.

Does Bolles checkered past give him a red flag on off the field issues?

If Foster drops to 23? Would he be considered?
ANSWER
Reddick is likely to be the first linebacker taken and from all indications, the Colts are ready to pounce on him. Most teams have pushed Foster down on the board, but it is more so due to his shoulder issues, even though his immaturity was an issue I cited on my report on him in December. Buyer beware on Tide-hyped guys (Foster, Humphrey). Bowser should be the next LB to go and Detroit and the Redskins have him high on their list. Bolles? If you read my comments here, without Asiata helping him on combo blocks, etc., he’s “just a guy.”
Willis could be in play, but if I had to get into Jerry Reese’s mind (help, get me out, the cobwebs are trapping me), I might have to toss a coin at #23 if Lamp and T.J. Watt are still available. As for Foster, the team seemed to be more enthralled with Davis, even before the Foster debacle began.

If you have any questions, get them in by Monday AM folks. I depart for Foxboro and will not be available to answer any questions until after the draft. Time to "pay the bills" if you know what I mean.
Just keep questions to this draft & Giants specific talent. Other type of questions, well, they will remain on the board unanswered. Thanks for understanding, but once the final draft process approaches, my ability to get on-line is limited

Your thoughts on WR Mack Hollins from UNC? Sleeper with how much upside?

Samaje Perine - This is one of my favorite guys to watch and was disappointed when he didn't break out again after his incredible Freshman year. Do you think if he lost 15+ lbs and got himself down to his Freshman playing weight could he become a Le'veon Bell type at the next level. Also how do you like him as a prospect compared to Mixon irrespective of the off the field stuff?

Aviante Collins - I saw this guy ran a 4.81 at the combine which puts him in Terron Armstead territory but I haven't heard much chatter about him as a prospect. Is there any upside besides the freakish athleticism? Does he actually bring anything to the table that would make him interesting to the Giants or is he a classic overdraft based on freeakish measurables?

Dave Te
Jim in Forest Hills : 11:05 am : link : reply
Your thoughts on WR Mack Hollins from UNC? Sleeper with how much upside?
ANSWER
Hollins is the type of guy that could get taken by the fourth round, but if not for that right collarbone fracture, he would have easily been off the board by early round three. He has good size (6:04)/speed (4.53) factor, big hands (9 ¾), good reach and wingspan (33 ¼ & 81 ¾) that you look for in a flanker, but you know what sells best on this guy? His special teams coverage skills. I mean, it is so rare in college to see a sophomore served as that unit’s captain. I bet you he turns into a Steve Tasker type in that role & as a receiver, I can see him contributing 40 or so grabs per year. Good eye spotting him. Most media forgot about him when he got hurt in October (still not fully recovered, but well on his way).

Dave - Question on Two Draft Prospects
HugeS : 11:18 am : link : reply
Samaje Perine - This is one of my favorite guys to watch and was disappointed when he didn't break out again after his incredible Freshman year. Do you think if he lost 15+ lbs and got himself down to his Freshman playing weight could he become a Le'veon Bell type at the next level. Also how do you like him as a prospect compared to Mixon irrespective of the off the field stuff?
ANSWER
I like Perine right where he is at, actually. He’s a powerful inside runner & yes, he has average speed, but coming out of the backfield as a receiver, he has few peers. I think he’s a solid third round target, but from what ole bud Quinn indicated, he’s well regarded in Detroit circles.

Aviante Collins - I saw this guy ran a 4.81 at the combine which puts him in Terron Armstead territory but I haven't heard much chatter about him as a prospect. Is there any upside besides the freakish athleticism? Does he actually bring anything to the table that would make him interesting to the Giants or is he a classic overdraft based on freakish measurables?
ANSWER
You know, for a guy that ran as fast as he did & put up the weights (34 reps), he’s a total enigma. He fails to translate that power to the FB field, as his base is very mediocre and I still think his body needs to fill out more, especially in the shoulder/chest region. He’s not good at keeping his pad level down and is susceptible to the bull rush. He has the quick feet to mirror edge rushers, but has to strike with a better hand punch, especially since he has good weight room numbers. I won’t go after him as a tackle, feeling his ability to strike in the second level & get out front on pulls is more suited for guard, but late on Dat Three of the draft, yeah, I might put a card in with his name on it

One guy I am curious about when it comes to the draft as a whole and his potential relation to NYG is Jabrill Peppers. Since October, I have been telling everyone that would listen this kid IS NOT a top 10 pick. It seems people have finally come around on that...

With that said, there is still an incredibly high amount of talent with this kid. Very smart player. Team player. And a guy that can make a big time difference with the ball in his hands. I'll take this to my grave...but I think Peppers could be an elite RB. I understand his decision to play defense though, likely a longer shelf life.

With his versatility, do you see a potential hidden interest in Peppers from NYG? Or would his role be too similar to what they already have in Collins? I see the hybrid SS/FS/LB/CB that Spags would love to have. And if he drops...I wouldn't discount the possibility.

You know, through all these months & 280 reports sent to them, the Giants never asked about Peppers. I would say maybe a well-kept secret on their part, but since I have supplied them with reports going back to the ice age (they joined in 1971), they usually don't try to hide things from me, especially since they send tons of requests for reports.
PS-later, some profiles on street free agents they just signed that the PR department requested.

Any players us fans are sleeping on that are getting a lot of hype in the scouting community?

Any players that are getting a lot of hype in the media that the scouting community thinks are overrated?

Can we just fast forward 5 days to the draft?

Look around the board brutha - I discussed a ton of sleepers & overrated guys - hate to go into repeats

this was asked. What position have you ended up with the best judgments on over the years?

Sorry if
XBRONX : 2:59 pm : link : reply
this was asked. What position have you ended up with the best judgments on over the years?
ANSWER
I'm pretty up to snuff on all positions, been doing this since 1968, so, if I wasn't good enough, I guess I've been a 50-year charity case for teams.
My preferred expertise is in the offensive line analysis, as Sid Gillman, Jim Finks, Al Davis & I devised the statistical breakdown charts/analysis that is currently used. The problem there is that college teams barely follow with a consensus OL grading system. That leads to countless hours in the film room breaking down the performance. Somewhere on the BBI forum, I posted the grading & type of blocks that I work with when writing up OL reports.
My fave is the CBs though, as I love the one-on-one element. My least favorite to analyze are the QBs. Too much spread, not enough dropback and despite quickness, some college QBs are just too lacking with their footwork when operating under center.
Most reports are at least 100 pages on a player and coincide with giving a coach ease of movement with details on a Notable Play Chart, thus reducing his hours of film view.
Every team likes different types of "apples & oranges" so when I write up reports, Joe Blow might get a better grade for New England than he might do for the Giants report, as I also use the "glass slipper" effect in my evaluations - where does that guy really fit in that particular team's scheme

He looked amazing coming around the edge while at Georgia.. I think the Giants can use a playmaker and athlete at LB that has great ability to come around the edge and make plays on the QB. I think they can use a bonafide playmaker at the LB position period.

My question is what LB's do you think the Giants are targeting in this years draft? Do you think they want and/or need a guy that can rush the passer from that spot? And in your opinion is there any one particulary LB in this draft that can do it all at high level, stop the run, cover and rush the passer?

thanks for all the info

Dave, do you have reports on UCONN DB Obi Melifonwu and Washington DB Budda Baker?

Giants still have issues at S after Collins. With these guys able to play multiple roles, could they be in play for Giants in round 1?

Office closed-will get the DB info Monday-on the road

And, if you could provide a brief write-up on them that would be much appreciated.

Opinions tend to be very split on him. He put up Vic Beasley like numbers at the combine, but you didn't see his athleticism or bend consistently on tape. He flashed and showed you that burst upfield and the ability to bend, but it just wasn't done often enough.

I saw an article on the Steelers SBNation page where they compared Willis' problems rushing the passer to Joey Bosa from last year. They showed in clips how both of them when trying to turn the corner and bend would not have their plant foot pointed towards their target which would make it harder to turn and therefore allow them to get pushed up field.

I don't pretend to be an expert, but when I went back and looked over his tape I saw many instances of this. It seems like something that can definitely be fixed with coaching.

To me Jordan Willis has better burst better bend than Derek Barnett who I think is overrated by the vast majority of people due to his production. Barnett isn't explosive off the ball and wins by having great snap anticipation. It's easier for a guy to jump the snap in college than the NFL, because of not having difficult snap counts, simple snap signals (clap or stepping), and the crowd noise at Neyland Stadium. Barnett has just okay bend to me. He often makes himself a smaller target by dipping his shoulder around the corner. Some people see that and think he's bending when he's not. I just don't see the great functional bend to get around the corner through contact that others do. He's too often washed out when OL are able to reach him. I feel like he's the type of guy you want on your team and he can be a solid pro as a teams' #2 DE that averages around 6-9 sacks eventually. However, I think if you take him in the top 15, then you will be kicking yourself down the road for passing on superior talents.

Anyways, I'm getting off track here.

What type of ceiling do you see for Willis having? I saw Syd used DeMarcus Ware as an upside comparison, but I'm not sure if that was just based on measurables or what?

I'd also love to hear if you agree with my assessment of Barnett as he seems to be a guy people are split on.

I did a big thing on the edge rushers with scouting reports last week. No repeats, sorry

Who are some guys who will go in the first round that we aren't expecting to?

I didn't see the thing this post you say you did on edge rushers. Could you link me?

Also, if you could answer the question about LBs I'd appreciate it. I know you like Evans, but that's it.

Thanks.

Would you know anything about the WR/TE from shepherd university Billy Brown?

Big guy, I'm not a mock or draft dude. Don't care where they go, just where they fit & how they produce. I will tell you about their talent, if they can operate in the system of that particular team, but if I learned one thing since 1968, expect the unexpected.
I do feel there will be a run of trades upfront that will do 2 things-
1-put a team needing a QB that did not get one to trade the ranch next year for a late #1 this year
2-set up the last third of round 1 & the first part of round 2 for a big run on DBs

somewhere on the bbi site I gave a reader the stuff. not this thread & I am not going to play where's waldo, okay

Thank you! Why oh why nobody is looking at this guy!? Maybe it is the luvfest for fellow DII TE stud Shaheen, but this kid could be another Delanie Walker. He's a brute when it comes to dragging opponents, but the level of play have most teams giving him an afterthought.
Check this out;
Release 7.4 Brown may lack the suddenness to leave defenders at the line of scrimmage getting into his route, and he still needs to refine his hand technique trying to escape the jam (will sometimes get too caught up in the battle rather than play off the defender). But, once he keeps his hands inside his frame, he is too physical for most cornerbacks to contain. He moves athletically through under coverage and has a smooth, fluid release, steadily building to top speed. He relies mostly on his size, bulk and strength to beat the jam, as he knows he can use his body assets to steer defenders and create lanes with his ability to stem and angle. He also shows quick feet when changing direction. It is very rare to ever see him get rerouted.
Acceleration 6.8 Brown is more quick than fast, but with those long limbs, he easily gets down field in a hurry. He runs with long, powerful strides, which makes it look like he is going through the motions sometimes, but one look at film and you can see he is eating up a lot of real estate. His only problem occurs in the short area, when he has to shorten his stride (most big receivers struggle in this area). He does a nice job of fading into the open area on long routes and does an excellent job of tracking the ball in flight. Along with his rare size, he has above average leaping ability and good eyes to look the ball in over his outside shoulder. He presents a big, sure-handed target down field, even if he lacks a second gear, but he compensates with double moves to sell and con in his route’s progression.
Quickness 6.9 Because of his long legs, Brown does not look like he has blazing speed, but if you ask any MEC cornerback, he has the ability to instantly get to the top of the route and eat up any cushion. He might not be sudden, but he is an athletic mover off the line and even with just two years of college experience, it is rare to see him take false steps in his route or ease off when blocking in the second level. He builds his acceleration nicely heading up the field and is very crisp coming out of his breaks.
Separation Ability 6.3 Brown might be tall, but it is rare to see him struggle when trying to sink his pads to separate underneath. Still, there are times when he will soft-angle cut when he needs to be precise working in the short area. He is more effective heading down the sidelines or angling up the seam, where he has the quickness to separate after the catch. He has a decent burst in the open field, but does rely more on his strength than anything to escape the tackler. Once he learns how to drop his weight, his change of direction will improve and aid him in selling the route.
Ball Adjustment 7.2 What separates Brown from most big receivers is his ability to adjust and run under the ball in flight. He is too tall to make the shoestring grabs, though, making him not ideal for the underneath game. He loves when allowed to simply run down field, have the quarter-back unleash the ball and time his leaps to get to it at its highest point. He is a natural athlete with the range, jumping ability and body control to contort and adjust to the off-target passes, something he had to do often with mediocre Tech passers. He just needs to work on his knee bend to be more successful attacking the low balls.
Leaping Ability 7.8 Brown has the size, timing and body control to win most jump ball battles. He has the hip snap and strength to power through a defender and reach outside his frame to pluck the ball. His timing is important to his success and it is rare to see him leave his feet too early.
Hands 7.9 Brown is a natural hands catcher and those hands are some of the strongest in the industry, at any level. He never uses his body to absorb the ball and shows an outstanding catching radius, along with above average hand/eye coordination.
Run After the Catch 7.8 Brown is like a locomotive once he gets the ball in his hands. On more than one occasion, you can see on game films that it takes more than one defender to bring him down. He might not be sudden in his moves, but is too hard to tackle in one-on-one situations due to his great leg power. He simply has that incredible ability to break tackles and run through arms on nearly every play. He has enough playing speed to finish when out in front and can make things happen once he gets into the open field.
Blocking Ability 8.2 Brown can obliterate smaller defensive backs that get in his way when blocking in the second level. He shows good knee bends and hand usage blocking in the backfield, doing a nice job of mirroring the edge rushers and sustaining. Once he gains position, he will generally win the battle. He has good hand placement to generate a strong punch to shock and jolt and has no problem taking angles to stalk and cut block linebackers.

Do you consider DJ Fluker better as a right guard or right tackle?

Your thoughts on RB Matt Breida of Georgia Southern?

Believe it or not I saw him play a playoff game live at cw post on Long Island in November. He had 11 catches for over 189 yards and 3 tds. I love the guy as a late round pick. Special gifts as you said especially his hands. I wrote the Giants scouting department a letter to check him out(doubt they ever received it). Really happy that we saw the same things when watching this guy play. Again, thanks for doing this just amazing insight and for a novice self proclaimed scout like myself your information is invaluable.

I think they are going to start him out at right tackle, but he is better served competing for the right guard spot. I am still puzzled by the signing, as he does not fit their blocking scheme, but if you look around at the bucks thrown at mediocre talent (Kalil to Carolina), I guess Big Blue thought it was a minimal gamble. Maybe they luck out in round seven (Knappe from UConn) and get a blue collar guy.
From all indications, they were pretty high on Lamp, but the last two weeks, I've seen more concentration on rush end/linebackers & tight ends. My old scout vibes are saying Watt & Engram are in play during the first two rounds from Rutherford.

As for Brieda, he's one of those guys I liked, more a Patriot blue collar type, but I did not scout the South this year, so I'm basing my report from film watch in April and my scout who was in attendance at his 3/30 workout. I would love to see the kid get drafted, but as effective as he can be for a bunch of backfield touches, I also think he can be a nice figure to stash on the practice squad & convert to corner while also having him return kicks - in 'nuther woyds - a perfect NE Patriot!
He checked in at 5:09.2-195, running 1.53 (10)/2.50 (20)/4.39 (40) with a 42-vertical/11-2 broad, putting up 225 23 times, running a 4.34 short shuttle & 6.85 3-cone

Excerpts from my scouting report;
Body Structure Breida has impressive power and lean muscles, but for a 195-pound back, he has unusually slim hips and shoulders, looking more like a receiver than a running back. Even with his narrow upper body, he has adequate sized calves and thighs and a frame that can carry at least another ten pounds with no loss in quickness. Still, that burst of speed might make him a nice practice squad project to see if he can make a conversion to cornerback, as he is blessed with well above average hip swivel.

Athletic Ability Breida might not impress you upon eye contact, as he has a narrow frame, but packs good strength and above average timed speed, making him sudden and explosive coming out of the blocks. He is a short strider with highly effective playing speed in the open and gets most of his yardage from his balance and footwork. He flashes good agility and balance on the move and does a nice job of keeping his feet on contact. He is more of a north-south runner than you think, displaying hidden power in those legs, but he’s a nice shake-&-bake type that has good enough agility numbers to indicate he has the balance and leg drive needed when attacking the holes
Initial Quickness Blessed with impressive timed speed, Breida generates fantastic explosion out of his stance. He can accelerate nicely in the open field, displaying nice hip snap and good burst going through tight quarters. He has make-you-miss initial movement on the ball, hitting up the hole with a good pad level, demonstrating the foot speed to challenge the second level once he gets past the line of scrimmage

Acceleration/Burst Breida has a sudden short area burst, and once he gets into the open, you just see the second gear that should be associated with his timed speed. He is a very slippery runner with loose hips and good wiggle. In the open field, he has breakaway speed and can elude a defender, as his quickness and balance lets him get nice yardage in the open

Instincts/Balance Breida is the type of back that is very creative on the move. He has good lateral agility and can cut on a dime. He can quickly gobble up the cushion when running routes and shows good leg drive and a low pad level to run through defenders in one-on-one confrontations. He shows good vision in the hole with the ability to slide or move to daylight and rarely does he hesitate or get caught in the backfield. There are times where he needs to generate better knee lift to avoid the low tackles, but he is consistent utilizing his second gear when he gets into space
Elusiveness Breida has those natural “make you miss” type of moves, as he is very effective when trying to slide and step away from a tackle when giving space to run. He does a nice job of adjusting, thanks to his vision and awareness, but must watch out for low blocks, as he is easily taken down when a defender attacks his feet
Receiving Skills Until 2014, Breida was not used much in the passing game, but his hands seem to be good. He has the touch and reach to pluck the ball away from his body and has the vision awareness to find the soft areas on the field to settle under

Route Running It is hard to evaluate, as Breida is used mostly on swings or flares. He does show good balance into his routes, though. He makes good adjustments getting to the off-target throws and shows good flexibility and foot quickness. He shows good field awareness and the ability to read and get in and out of his break point in attempts to get open

You see, I'm a big fan of the try-hard guys, especially from the small colleges. Brown has always been one of my faves. Some teams say he will grow into a TE & I labeled him a Delanie Walker clone for good reason - both on & off the field, he's simply the ideal try-hard type. Wanna laugh, I see a little K Boss in his approach in practices & the weight room - always with his eyes & ears open.

I'm signing off for the evening. Any questions after this sign off, please check back tomorrow. I will be shutting the Q&A down at noon on Monday, as I have to fly back East to prep for the draft. Back after the draft, but will post insights on Giants draft day proceedings from where I'm at, just no Q&A until I return April 30, thanks

and can you elaborate why you don't think Fluker fits it?

When I watch the Giants play I don't see much zone blocking. I thought when McAdoo took over as the HC we would see more of that because when you look at our top linemen (Flowers, Pugh, and Richburg) they all move really well. One thing Flowers did well in college was get to the second level. Pugh moves very well. Richburg reminded me of Mawae when I saw him in college. You don't see many centers pull at all. Now, pulling is not a zone type of block but it shows his athleticism that not many centers can do. But it seems we are primarily a man blocking team. Do you think it is the right scheme for the talent? A great coach is able to adjust to his personnel. McAdoo seemed pretty rigid with his scheme last year but his personnel could havd hampered him from doing a lot of things although I disagree with being in one personnel grouping 90% of the time.

Also, last year almost all of the Giants runs were between the tackles. We know this was a combination of poor tackle play, horrible TE blockers, and no FB. Do you think that changes with the current group of linemen and TEs (particularly Ellison)?

Here’s where the Giants lack identity, and frankly, it is McAdoo’s own fault. Are they going to be a West Coast offense, or are they going to utilize Beckham and Shepherd more to join Marshall in establishing their vertical game.

If the go more West Coast, their linemen need to be quick and mobile, something Fluker and Jerry are not. Despite his bulk, I didn’t see Fluker blow up too many defenders coming off the snap on running plays. He also seemed a few steps behind in getting into his assignments on traps, pulls and screens.

Manning is never going to be known as a scrambler and at this age, the pocket passer is better served with mobile tackles. That is why Flowers might be a better fit on the right side, where he can get covered up by the guard and tight end and where his athleticism on the traps and pulls come into better play. Flowers blocking down on the left side does not seem to fit into his better ability that he showed earlier in his career at Miami (right tackle first two years) with his ability to block out there.

They need to have confidence that their tackles can first open the hole, and then seal off the defense on either side, as that gives the blockers the ability to swing outward and push aside anything in their way. If the defense moves to close in on the runner, they have to have their edge blockers capable of meeting and walling off the defenders. Then, by pulling the guard, the offense suddenly has extra blockers.

I think it’s more helpful to define football schemes by what they’re trying to achieve – are you better off using the talent you have available for zone-scheme plays or gap-scheme plays? From what I’ve seen of Fluker and Flowers, I don’t think either have the ability to weaken a wide area of a defense on zone plays and Fluker is more comfortable just using his brute force, but that makes him poorly suited for gap plays that are designed to open up a single gap for a back to run through, as he always seems to be late to get into position.

Neither of those two can execute the slide-&-peel motion that you look for in the backside tackle, and you saw the last two years how Flowers fails to prevent the defensive tackle from blowing up the play from behind. Neither can screen the defensive end so that he can’t make a play if the hole gets plugged. They also seem to be a split second behind when they need to instant in their decision making, especially when having to make the choice to leave a backside end unblocked in order to reach the nearest linebacker, or to engage the defensive end straight up if he’s a playmaker.

In other words, going into the decision with a tackle tandem of Fluker (right tackle) and Flowers (left tackle) could be more of the same running failures that they had last year. Me? If I was the position coach, at least in mini camp, I’d line up Flowers at right tackle and Fluker at right guard. If all else fails, it will be back to the drawing board after 2017. Yes, they added a beefier lineman in Fluker, but not with the athleticism needed to pull and trap.

I still think the tight end position needs to be blown up. That's a lot of ducats going Ellison's way and I would prefer that they go back to using a classic fullback. They can probably find a nice one late in Day Three (Florida State's Freddie Stevenson)

What's your assessment of Michigan State's Prescott Line?

In my opinion, I feel it is easier to transition from LT to LG than LT to RT. This doesn't apply to all players but I equate it to batting lefty and righty. You can do it but it isn't always natural. I feel if Flowers moves to the right side that will further impede his technique whichh he struggles with.

If it was up to me I would have Pugh give him competition for that LT spot because he needs competition. And, I feel, a lot of his technique flaws will not shine as bright at LG. I know that is totally against the grain but i think it would lead to better overall success of the OL.

Do you think Pugh SHOULD get a chance at LT this year?
Any THOUGHTS on Apple and Sheppard's rookie year's?
What do you EXPECT out of Darian Thompson in year 2?
Where do you THINK Zeke would rank among Fournette, Mccaffrey and Cook?
What can a Jabril Peppers do on this Giants roster?
Any prospects you feel the Giants MIGHT WANT to move up to take?
Lastly, any one guy you WANT to see drafted by Giants & why?
Sorry if i'm going back to last year too much, all your insight is HIGHLY appreciated.

Speaking of Fullbacks...
Klaatu : 11:22 am : link : reply
What's your assessment of Michigan State's Prescott Line?
ANSWER
Line is a nice blocker, but the problem last year was that he was late getting into the holes. He can certainly widen the rush lanes, but if you are late picking up that first guy, it leads to tight areas to run through. He then pulled a 4.96 in the 40 on pro day, thus displaying his glaring deficiency. He offers little to nothing as a ball carrier, reminding me of something former Cardinals fullback Ron Wolfley once told coach Jim Hanifan during a game. “Coach, if you need me to get you a yard, I’ll get you a yard. If you need me to get you four yards, I’ll get you a yard.” Welcome Prescott Line.

Thanks. I think...

Dave Te
est1986 : 11:46 am : link : reply
Do you think Pugh SHOULD get a chance at LT this year?
Any THOUGHTS on Apple and Sheppard's rookie year's?
What do you EXPECT out of Darian Thompson in year 2?
Where do you THINK Zeke would rank among Fournette, Mccaffrey and Cook?
What can a Jabril Peppers do on this Giants roster?
Any prospects you feel the Giants MIGHT WANT to move up to take?
Lastly, any one guy you WANT to see drafted by Giants & why?
Sorry if i'm going back to last year too much, all your insight is HIGHLY appreciated.
ANSWER
Big guy, follow my guidelines up top – this year’s draft only & too many parts to your question. Choose one or two, but brutha, I don’t want to be writing a War & Peace novel here, cool?

In comment 13439117 nflscouting said:

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ANSWER Big guy, follow my guidelines up top – this year’s draft only & too many parts to your question. Choose one or two, but brutha, I don’t want to be writing a War & Peace novel here, cool?

Lol, cool.

Will answer questions that come in after this post tomorrow - got a few shows to do & must run-thanks

You really are the best!


It's probably too much trouble and time-consuming but I would love to hear what you're hearing on every single pick in the first round.

Interested in hearing your thoughts about Montravious Adams for Giants 3rd rd, if not him what other DT prospects you would see as a good fit for Giants in 3rd/4th rounds. Thanks for your time. Great job in handling the myriad of questions.

Reminds me of Hakeem Nicks, yet seems to really get no talk about him

A name I never hear mentioned to the Giants is Zay Jones. I loved him in the Senior Bowl week, and more so in the game. I know they want to label him a possession receiver, but with Marshall getting old, can you see the Giants adding him in round 2 despite needs elsewhere?

Thanks again for all your posts! Shout out from Ave Z and Nostrand!!

Incredible job you've done.

Thanks Dave for all the time you've put in here. Like you I love Hunter's game but am at a loss for how he'd fit in an NFL scheme with his fire hydrant body and stubby t-rex arms. Could he kick inside as a 3-tech penetrator on passing downs, is he a 3-4 lber or do most teams see him as a fullback conversion like Whitlock? Would love to see the Giants take a shot with him but not sure they'd use his talent properly.

You mean Dimick, correct? If so, with 4.75 speed & his low pad level, he could be a FB conversion, but I honestly think if a 3-4 defense pops on him, I'd try him as a SILB first. He's actually been evaluated by me as a potential flip to that position on a request from a certain team. He blew past at 4.13 in the shuttle, 7.15 on the three-cone, certainly good LB numbers & that bench performance (38 times) makes him a try-hard type. If he's a Giant, he's the fans' best underdog since Jim Burt, but I think he's a 3-4 conversion guy. I call him my "Lou Costello" guy. Everyone laughs him off, but in the end, you get a kick out of watching him perform

but I'm not mad at you.

Thoughts on Amba Etta-Tawo as WR prospect? Did he suffer from terrible QB play at UMD or was the Syracuse offensive system that much better?

Did not scout the kid & my scout who did is off line until Wednesday, as he is in the SEC area looking at 2018 guys.

Don't you think he should be discussed with some of the top RBs? Balance/ability to break tackles/vision are all top notch.

In comment 13440341 Sy'56 said:

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Don't you think he should be discussed with some of the top RBs? Balance/ability to break tackles/vision are all top notch.

Sy i see some LBell in him, but what do i know.

I will be off line until much later, as I have to travel East for the draft. Any questions after this post will be answered as soon as I can, but I will be off-line from Wednesday noon until after the draft. I am trying to arrange another podcast with Sy included for Wednesday & then provide draft recaps. During draft proceedings, I will be unavailable, as it is time to pay the bills & somebody actually gives me bucks for my insanity, thanks

I know you're traveling, and I asked this in another thread, but thought I'd just ask it here since it is the "official Q&A thread". Here's the question:

What is it about Amara Darboh? Everything I read is that he's a possession receiver. But he ran a 4.45 40-yard with a 36" vert and a 10'4" broad jump... and that is coming in a 6'2" package. He's a guy I would like the Giants to come in and potentially be the future starter across from Odell once Marshall retires. Is it just me? Even if he has stiff hips, won't the size with the long speed translate?

Thanks!

Can you kindly post the scouting report on QB Davis Webb when you have a chance. Many thanks

Dude! Ah, J Pinstripes, I missed you. Said you & Martin Cybul were my fave guys on here. Glad to see you are back. If I don't pull Webb's stuff & post tomorrow, remind me. I'm en route to Foxboro & hate to have a flight attendant beat me up or hit me with a stroller if I get out of my seat! I'll post-it to my chest & try to put it on before breakfast. You have any other requests?

In comment 13440631 nflscouting said:

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Dude! Ah, J Pinstripes, I missed you. Said you & Martin Cybul were my fave guys on here. Glad to see you are back. If I don't pull Webb's stuff & post tomorrow, remind me. I'm en route to Foxboro & hate to have a flight attendant beat me up or hit me with a stroller if I get out of my seat! I'll post-it to my chest & try to put it on before breakfast. You have any other requests?

Thanks for that Dave and safe travels to you my friend. Kind regards

Big Guy, don't get fooled by Darboh's 40 time. There's an old adage in scouting - we judge kids in pads/coaches like them in their undies.
Here's the thing. 4.45 40, puts the equipment on & you see absolutely no explosion out of the guy. You hear the term for RBs at times-one cut runner. Well, Darboh is a one-speed guy. If he gets a clean release out of the blocks, he gets into the route's progression. When he gets a jam, his feet die & he struggles to recover. Give him a undetected shove in his pattern & he takes extra steps to get back in his route. He has nice hands and impressive leaping ability, but I feel like Homer Simpson (DUH) when he fails to time those leaps or leaves his feet too early. Get this - he had 27 jump ball situations last year, caught 11. To him, I give him the Peggy Lee hit song - is that all there is, is that all there is. He's gotta show me more before I get excited about the kid

Look at the forum-Webb scouting report excerpts posted

?

Tommorow buddy-remind me-plane just landed & gotta run

In comment 13440703 nflscouting said:

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Tommorow buddy-remind me-plane just landed & gotta run

Thanks man! Safe travels

It's probably too much trouble and time-consuming but I would love to hear what you're hearing on every single pick in the first round.

In comment 13440662 nflscouting said:

Quote:

Big Guy, don't get fooled by Darboh's 40 time. There's an old adage in scouting - we judge kids in pads/coaches like them in their undies. Here's the thing. 4.45 40, puts the equipment on & you see absolutely no explosion out of the guy. You hear the term for RBs at times-one cut runner. Well, Darboh is a one-speed guy. If he gets a clean release out of the blocks, he gets into the route's progression. When he gets a jam, his feet die & he struggles to recover. Give him a undetected shove in his pattern & he takes extra steps to get back in his route. He has nice hands and impressive leaping ability, but I feel like Homer Simpson (DUH) when he fails to time those leaps or leaves his feet too early. Get this - he had 27 jump ball situations last year, caught 11. To him, I give him the Peggy Lee hit song - is that all there is, is that all there is. He's gotta show me more before I get excited about the kid

Thanks Dave. Hopefully he's a player that will have his best football ahead of him. I had a feeling I was going to get the answer about him running well while not in pads. Great stat... 11-27 in jump balls. Love that, can't get analysis like that anywhere else.

left a message at your other post, but I don't do draft stuff, especially mock first round. I talk talent & don't care what any team does, taking the philosophy to let the chips fall where they may, sorry buddy

In comment 13440814 nflscouting said:

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left a message at your other post, but I don't do draft stuff, especially mock first round. I talk talent & don't care what any team does, taking the philosophy to let the chips fall where they may, sorry buddy

I know, but you seem to hear a lot of things through the grapevine (e.g. the Falcons interested in our pick. Carolina wants the #2 pick). I'd love to hear more rumors and news that you're hearing.

What are your thoughts on Safety Jadar Johnson of Clemson. I think he's underrated.

9000 questions here, I would say I gave enough on the rumors. As for Johnson? After the first few strong safeties, the group sucks. He's a pile jumper, nothing more & for me at strong safety, that guy has to have some Jake Tatum blood in his veins. J. Adams, Josh Jones, Evans, Woods & my sleeper Morrow are my kind of guys there.

WR Zay Jones, what are you thoughts on his talent in terms of being an outside physical receiver versus more of a move type of guy? Also, where do you see his value to a team like the Giants? Is he worth considering at 23? 55?

He seems like the most refined/highest floor receiver in my (wholly amateur) estimation.

Thanks for your consideration with these questions, boss.

Here's what bothers me about Jones - I did not chart his season finale, but before that game, just 246 of 1,685 yards came after the catch. On the 151 receptions he had prior to meeting Temple, just 46% of them gained even 10 yards & 12.6% of those reached 20 yards.
"In nutta woyds," tag him & he's done. I like guys that can get good RAC

I just reread your question. Jones at #23? Okay, here's the deal - go pee in a cup & don't stand next to Mr. Peppers. I suspect you have a problem!

In comment 13440837 nflscouting said:

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I just reread your question. Jones at #23? Okay, here's the deal - go pee in a cup & don't stand next to Mr. Peppers. I suspect you have a problem!

I figured as much after your last post. I'll beware the Zay high though... Thanks for your info.

In meetings all day today, so if you have a question, check back for an answer later tonight, thanks

What's your thoughts on Carlos Watkins? I know you've written about Hester (I assume as a later pick), but any Day 2 type DTs you think fit the Giants?

Watkins will go around the fourth, but I can’t pull scouting reports any more this week, as I am traveling. Some other DTs I think can be nice Day 3 finds begins with the Big Snacks clone, Grover Stewart out of Albany State, but UCLA’s Eddie Vanderdoes is getting lots of interest in the fourth round area, along with fellow Pac-12 DT out of Washington (Elijah Qualls). As for free agent types, somebody could unearth some depth value from Southen Miss’ Dylan Bradley, Winston Craig-Richmond, Pat Ricard-Maine, Jordan Wade-Oklahoma & Jordan Carrell-Colorado

If this is too personal I completely understand. Your generosity here has been overwhelming. I don't want to ask you a football question just to ask one. you have already answered questions I am not smart enough to ask. Could you tell us one story about your wife that you might tell amongst friends that makes you laugh or smile. If this is too hard, no response in necessary. Thanks for everything you do here.

Your wife
Thegratefulhead : 12:51 pm : link : reply
If this is too personal I completely understand. Your generosity here has been overwhelming. I don't want to ask you a football question just to ask one. you have already answered questions I am not smart enough to ask. Could you tell us one story about your wife that you might tell amongst friends that makes you laugh or smile. If this is too hard, no response in necessary. Thanks for everything you do here.
ANSWER
I have more than enough memories to fill a lifetime of stories about here. This is going to be sad, but take a look at a video she did for the sarcoma foundation she started in St Louis. Below that link is the story the NFL, BBI and other sites I was doing work for that ran it after she passed. I think it spells the undying love I had for her. No matter what anyone says to console me, I still feel I failed her. Too much research & experimental treatments consumed us to the point where it was just the fight for life, rather than enjoying those last few moments. I think after you see the video & read what I wrote to her, well, maybe you will know why I backed away from a career I loved. Without her, the fun just suddenly stopped, the world stopped spinning & I just simply stopped for awhile. Now, I have stayed away from friends & family & engulfed myself in the 2018 draft crop, keeping mind occupied so I do not think about her last three months, when the liver failed and I just just feel I failed, miserably. Sorry if it brings a tear to your eye, but you asked;

THE LINK;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zHSK0n-joo

MY TRIBUTE TO HER
FROM DAVE-TE THOMAS AND THE NFL DRAFT REPORT STAFF

My apologies for not writing about football at this time, but I ask all those who enjoyed my reports to just allow me to express some thoughts this day

MY SADDEST DAY

My girl, Laurie, a true battler to the end, was diagnosed with a rare sarcoma in 2011. Given a year to live, she volunteered to undergo-first ever surgeries and also participated in several experimental trial periods. It was not for her, she would say, but to try and save someone else before it was too late.

She leaves behind a slew of friends, four great kids that have grown up to be fine adults and ten grand children to carry on all that she instilled in them – a never ending will to fight on – against all odds. I was blessed to find someone who for the first time in my storied life, actually loved me unconditionally, one that made it worth getting up in the morning, one that brought me great pleasure by just a simple smile.

My rock she was, one that can always be counted to sacrifice her personal wants for the needs of others. Babe, I am so sorry if I ever did anything that was not what you wanted, but you knew that above all others, you were the only thing that truly mattered to me. I ask that you look at your significant other, give that person a hug and tell what you really feel.

I told Laurie every day how much I loved her, yet, I still feel that I could have done more. I feel lost, I feel hurt, I feel oh-so sad, the saddest I have ever felt. I ask my late brother and grandmother to guide her through what will be a fantastic journey for her. She truly was my angel. Shortly after she passed this morning, a deer appeared in our backyard – prancing and moving free. The deer had to be Laurie, giving me the sign that “I’m okay, please see me be free.” As soon as it appeared, it was gone, off to some adventure that I will never know of.

Early in the morning on September 7th, 2016, my beautiful Laurie left this world. Her six-year battle with sarcoma is over. The love of my life, my light at the end of the tunnel, my dark days begin without her. I always wrote her poems, but for the last six months, the words could not appear. Yesterday, as she lay quite, I wrote my final poem to her. She always called me Maxx, as she says I operate in Maximum Overdrive. Today, I stop my engines;

LET ME
Let me sit here, alone in my sadness
Let me wonder how I'll live without you
Let me again feel so lost and empty inside
Let me silently remember a love that was so true

Let me again hold you in my arms
Let me never tear you from my heart
Let me read the contours of your face
Let me remember the first day of our start

Let me immerse in the pages of the book I am reading
Let me hear your voice in a rustling wind, like a song
Let me hold you in my arms while conceding
During our time together, to you - I belonged

Let me be glad, yet knowing I am sad
Let me always keep you within my empty heart
Let me listen for the voices in that wind
One is mine, whispering my love to you, even when apart

Let me tell the world from the highest mountain tops
Let me show them - you are now and will be always my love
Let me remember yesterday, today and forever
Let your love for me shine down from above

But until that time comes to say goodbye one last time
Let me add a smile to your face – give meaning to your day
Let me add warmth to take away your pain with this little rhyme
Let me help you along the way

Let me give you a meaning for today
Let me give you a chance to show one little smile
Let me give you strength to go on one more day
Let me walk for you that one extra mile

Let me give you one more day to laugh
Let me have one more day to feel the love from you
Let me have one more day to hear and one more to see
One more day to hold your hand – to feel the love that’s true

Let me have time to see you laugh
Let me have one more day to hold you near
Let me not think about what lies ahead tomorrow
Let me give you one more day of cheer

Let me hold you up when your legs fail to go on
Let me have you fall into my arms, I say
Let me rest your head on my chest one last time
Let me be your Prince Charming, just one more day

Let me hope that that there truly are miracles
Let me hope that there is one left for you
Let me see if there truly is a heaven
Let me be there one day, just to be with you.

Love, Maxx

From this day forward, I will keep her in my heart, remember her in my thoughts, but because of her, I have been able to find the words to express myself, to express my love for her. When you look at your significant other, my friends, I hope you do so in the venue of how I saw my Laurie;

Through Artist's Eyes
Where all dreams truly belong
drifting towards the edge of time
Seeing her through an artist's eyes
no finer masterpiece that man can find

Through perfect strokes on a canvas
this artist can surely see
Snow-white wings lifting her high
into an angel's flight of ecstasy

She chases nightingales nestled in the trees
racing over the horizon that divides the sky
Soaring past the sun and moon, on her way to heaven
where this angel belongs, through this artist's eyes


http://nfldraftreport.sportsblog.com/posts/25131937/my-saddest-day.html

Thoughts on Noble Nwachukwu?

Don't laugh, I'd convert him to FB. He's too short to play on the edge, too slow to drop back & play second level, but is a demon on special teams, powerful as all hell, but much like in life, size does matter. As a DE? Solid reserve for a handful of snaps, until he gets engulfed (short arms when that happens), but with that first step, low pads, squat frame and sheer desire to be John Cafferty (put me in coach, I'm ready to play), he's someone I'd look at in the end of the draft & see what shakes out in training camp.
Hint to Giants fans-do some homework before the draft on Eastern Washington's Samson Ebukam. Don't tell me I didn't tell you when Friday's action concludes

If I don't get to your question in a timely manner, bear with me. Traveling to Foxboro, Pittsburgh & Detroit the next 24 hours, so I'm trying to catch up to my luggage

if you search Ebukam on this site... the first mention of him will be from yours truly, as a late round pick in a mock draft for the Giants! Please excuse my back-patting.

Dave, I have two guys I would love your thoughts on. The first is priority.

I've really been fascinated with RB De'Angelo Henderson of Coastal Carolina. What's your take on him? I saw him at the underwear olympics and it looked like he was extremely physically prepared, and tested great.

Second guy is DE Garrett Sickles.

Thanks.

Beautiful...I married my best friend in the world 25 years ago. I will go home tonight, hug her and not let her go and hope I can love her as well you loved your wife. Peace brother.

Give her an extra hug for me brutha!

Big guy, I put Ebukam's scouting report excerpt up on the board. Figured it was would get lost in this monster Q&A

I was asking about De'Angelo Henderson of Coastal Carolina and Garret Sickels, if you would be so kind.

I will try to get to questions later today, as I have eight shows to do, but after today, I am in lockdown for the draft. I will post reports on the Giants picks throughout, but will not be on-line to communicate until Monday.
Get whatever questions for the Monday post-draft wrapup, as I shut down after that and head to Europe for NBA scouting, thanks

Both late rounders, but too tied up doing shows to pull any more reports, sorry

Dave - on the Eve of the draft, what would you say in your opinion is the order of preference for the Giants @ 23?

Appreciate all the insights.

"shows to do," what does that mean? Are we able to catch you on some form of media or another?

hint, hint-if Baltimore takes Cam Robinson at #16 & the Giants do intend to take an OL guy, look for a possible deal with Tampa, as the Robinson selection by the Ravens could see a short run on OL guys before the Giants pick at #23

just got off with one of my guys in re; Henderson
They see him more late Day 3 but they have done a lot of late work on Jamaal Williams & Brian Hill as round 4 candidates
Giants actually have Schwan with a draft grade, but not Sickels
Oh, and they rate Godwin higher than any other team has the Penn State WR on their board. Me? I like the kid, but it will take a 2 & they have needs at OT, DT, rush, RB, TE & that ho-hum LB unit needs a spark

would Giants prefer Lamp to a Robinson or Bolles because of the versatility?

for Giants first pick (versus other positional targets).

Do you feel the same, or still way too many variables out there?

Btw - nice job with all your info. I have been busy over past few weeks at work so just catching up on your posts. Nice to have you on the site man...

Sadly, as much as I could get love on Lamp, the Giants;
1-do not consider him an option at LOT
2-know Miami & Denver want him & if Giants did, they would have to trade up. However, if Bolles (hate the guy) is there when Tampa comes up, look for a possible deal with Big Blue that would move them up 5 places

Yikes...moving up 5 places for Bolles would be quite interesting.

Tampa wanted to move up for an RB, but there's freefall chatter going on with OJ Howard that Tampa likes if they drop to 23 & if not, they are in the zone with the UConn safety

this might go without saying but if hell froze over and Howard was there at 23 - would the Giants not even think twice about selecting him?

It's called cold feet at the altar time & Howard's lack of umph on most plays have a lot of teams rethinking. Mobile, Indy-looked great, but when the taste test came on film, how much could a GM bank on "potential" with the guy. I don't think he gets past Tennessee's second round one pick (unless they trade) & Denver has him higher than any of the OL guys, but yeah, if there at 23, I don't think Reese will pass, even though teams are starting to build on the Ashland kids immense upside
Two Day 3 sleepers-Bucky Hodges--Virginia Tech (receiving only) & Jacob Hollister-Wyoming. On potential FA TEs, I like the Louisville backup, Thornbridge & there were a lot of teams accessing my report on a big find during my week in Utah - kid from Southern Utah-Steve Wroblewski - checked in for me at 6:07.4-252, 1.65/2.68/4.64 10/20/40
9 3/8-hands, 79 3/8-wingspan 34 1/4-arms
33 vertical/10-2 broad
4.29 shuttle/freakish 6.96 three cone

Wonder how far you have to move up for kid McCaffrey..

Right now, McCaffrey appears to be the consolation prize for either Cincy or Carolina. Both are trying to leapfrog Jax for Fournette. Even with Peterson signed, crazy Sean Payton is trying to move up to take him, figuring he's not there at 11

I would have to imagine with interest in him, you would have to be placed before Cincy & Carolina, at least, unless one of them trade up for Fournette.
Yes, he does a ton, but check out Donnell Pumphrey-San Diego State. No, not a McCaffrey type, but that production makes him an interesting third day type, wouldn't you think?

Hey Dave, is that trade you mentioned the other day - Carolina sending a 2nd and 3rd to SF, I think it was - still on the table ? It sounds like if Cleveland made their proposal by now they're still looking elsewhere for a trade partner.

Thanks Dave

In comment 13442976 nflscouting said:

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Sadly, as much as I could get love on Lamp, the Giants; 1-do not consider him an option at LOT 2-know Miami & Denver want him & if Giants did, they would have to trade up. However, if Bolles (hate the guy) is there when Tampa comes up, look for a possible deal with Big Blue that would move them up 5 places

Dave,

Please tell Jerry Reese to not take Bolles, especially do not waste a draft pick by moving up to get him!!! Ugh!!

okay, here's the plan. We get ahold of the Pillsbury Doughboy, Christie & have him close down all access roads to Rutherford. Either that or pray to the FB gods that Bolles ends up in Denver (PS, something is cooking, or should I say cooling on OJ Howard with a bunch of teams. I think the media wants him in the top 10, but even Tennessee seems to be falling for the Miami kid. Denver would pounce on him if he slides & let Bolles go elsewhere)

As far as edge pass rusher I love a guy like Ryan Anderson from bama but what are your thoughts on taking someone like Vince biegel round 2 if he's still there which he should be. Not quite sure why people are over looking him and Anderson. Personally, I would take either one in round 2. Is that too high in your opinion and who is the better player of the two?

In comment 13444050 nflscouting said:

Quote:

okay, here's the plan. We get ahold of the Pillsbury Doughboy, Christie & have him close down all access roads to Rutherford. Either that or pray to the FB gods that Bolles ends up in Denver (PS, something is cooking, or should I say cooling on OJ Howard with a bunch of teams. I think the media wants him in the top 10, but even Tennessee seems to be falling for the Miami kid. Denver would pounce on him if he slides & let Bolles go elsewhere)

Praying OJ Howard gets to pick 19 and TB will trade back for a 4th and 6th and we get our TE. Denver can have Bolles.

You & I can really smile if the Giants snatch up Anderson, as I think he adds value both on the edge & as a strong-side linebacker and I see him as a strong Round 2 candidate if they don't get a LB (WAtt/Bowser) in round one. Biegel, well, I say they can find him late in 3, possibly even in 4. I am not convinced the outside will be his eventual position & think a move to Mike would really be a better fit for his ability to close rush lanes. Outside, not so great in pass coverage (extra steps, slow to turn)

I might not be able to get to questions until after each round & have a zillion shows to do today, but will be back on the podcast with Sy tonight to wrap up Day One events