2009 NFP scouting series: North Carolina State

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

This summer, the National Football Post is breaking down every team in the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as Division I-A) to identify players who might warrant interest from NFL teams in the 2010 draft.

After a slow start to the 2008 season, the North Carolina State Wolfpack finished the year with four consecutive wins in the ACC and look poised for bigger and better things this season.

Offense

Jamell Eugene: No. 29, RB, 5'9", 196

An undersized back who displays natural instincts as a runner. Does a nice job making quick, decisive reads at the line of scrimmage, lowing his pad level, and taking what the defense gives him.

Showcases good balance and footwork when asked to change directions and knows how to make a man miss in space. However, he lacks burst out of his breaks and isn’t much of a threat in the open field. Plays at one speed and is considered more quick than fast.

Does a nice job breaking tackles for his size, but lacks the power to carry the load inside.

Impression: Displays some natural running ability, but doesn’t possess the speed or power to offer much upside at the next level.

Ted Larsen: No. 58, OC, 6'2", 300

A flexible lineman who does a nice job dropping his pad level on contact and getting his hands under defenders. Keeps his base low when sliding laterally and looks natural when asked to redirect in pass protection.

Lacks elite quickness in space, but does a nice job working his hands and feet through contact and staying on blocks off his shoulder. Exhibits a smooth, compact punch and recoils quickly after striking his target.

Fires off the ball quickly in the run game and can create a bit of an initial surge up front. Works his legs hard through contact, but lacks natural power in his base. Has a tendency to get overextended and lose his balance when trying to finish blocks and is often shed after his initial surge.

Impression: Isn’t an elite size/speed athlete, but is technically sound and has the makings of a possible starter at the next level.

Jeraill McCuller: No. 50, OT, 6'7", 335

A massive right tackle prospect who carries his weight well and looks coordinated off the ball. Exhibits a smooth kick-step and uses his length to get into defensive linemen quickly on the outside. Displays good athleticism for his size and makes it tough for opposing pass rushers to turn the corner on him. Is patient in pass protection and does a nice job keeping his base down, head up, and not lunging into blocks.

However, he struggles redirecting in space and isn’t crisp with his footwork. Has a tendency to get elongated in his lower half and isn’t real sudden when asked to change directions.

Lacks ideal hand placement and struggles staying on block; looks content to simply steer opposing linemen away from the play. Isn’t as powerful as his frame would indicate and can be overwhelmed at the point of attack by the bull-rush.

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