Florida Gators Pro Prospects: 2010 NFL Draft

Written by Ryan Crutchfield, Gatorsfirst.com Contributor

Talk about fiending football...

(JB): what do you think about Rainey in the NFL?

My buddy and fellow Florida alum JB and I have already gone through so many Gator topics that now we’re thinking about the pro chances of backup running backs. That inspired me to think about the pro prospects of other lesser-hyped players on the 2009 Gators. We’ve already all heard plenty about the NFL futures of Tebow, Spikes, Dunlap, and Haden...

1. Chris Rainey (RB 5'9" 175 lbs., So., RS)

a. Skills Shown

Rainey is a speed demon, one of the many sub-4.5 guys Meyer has at his disposal. He’s shown the ability to burst through the line, make guys miss using some shifty moves, and outrun anybody who’s unfortunate enough to have to chase him. Also, he's got good hands (catching and ball protection) and is slippery in the open field.

b. Needs Improvement

He’s a small guy. Word is he’s bulked up to around 185—which is a good start—but still about 10 pounds short to survive consistent hits from NFL linebackers. He isn’t prone to breaking any tackles when squared up with a defender

c. Final Word

If Chris keeps it going in the weight room and works on his running between the tackles, he could contribute immediately as a kick returner. Down the road, he’ll have a chance to contribute as a third-down back and, in a pinch (injury to starter), a 20-carry RB. Ultimately, he needs to get more playing time to showcase himself. With Demps hogging the workload later last season, we shouldn’t expect Rainey to declare early.

2. Major Wright (FS 6-1, 204, Jr.)

a. Skills Shown

Major is a crushing tackler who's rarely caught out of position. He had four forced fumbles as a true frosh in '07 and four interceptions last year. You have to love a guy that shows up in big games.

b. Needs Improvement

With the way he plays, he could stand to bulk up a bit more to handle bigger NFL running backs.

c. Final Word

Major has the size, strength, and speed to be an NFL-caliber safety. He's played against some tough competition in the SEC. While he'd be declaring early if he decided to go this year, he does have three full years experience in the college game. If he enters early, he could be a third or fourth-round pick. He would contribute immediately on special teams. If he stays another year and keeps healthy, he could possibly land in the late first-round.

3. Maurkice and Mike Pouncey (C 6-5, 318, Jr.; G 6-5, 320, Jr.)

a. Skills Shown

Are they the same person? No (though it's hard to tell from pictures). Maurkice played guard and center while Mike played guard and some D-tackle. Both of their natural positions are at guard. These are two smart offensive lineman who are punishing run blockers.

b. Needs Improvement

Both lineman need to increase their strength a bit and show they can play in a pro-style offense. Their only experience in pass protection has the QB giving them five yards of space (at least at the college level).

c. Final Word

Both guys have the size and experience for the NFL. Playing in a system that demands athleticism makes them a good fit in a zone blocking scheme. Offensive linemen don't usually leave school early unless they are guaranteed to get drafted, but the Pounceys have a chance at a second national title in consecutive years, and may want to ride into the sunset with Tebow and Spikes.

4. Aaron Hernandez (TE 6-2, 250, Jr.)

a. Skills Shown

The Most Tattooed Man in the History of Connecticut. He catches well with his hands (instead of body), and uses every bit of his 6'2" frame. He's very athletic for his size and a versatile weapon on offense. He's lined up at receiver, tight end, and fullback.

b. Needs Improvement

Like the Pounceys, Hernandez will need to show he can play in a pro-style offense where he's called on to block more often. He's got the strength, he just needs to work on his blocking mechanics.

c. Final Word

To make full use of Hernandez's skill set, he'll need to go to an NFL team with a creative offensive coordinator. Think Chris Cooley with Washington. Even if he does have the breakout year most people are expecting out of him, he's not a lock to go in the first three rounds. I think he stays another year to be a leader with Johnny Brantley in 2010.

5. Brandon James (RB/KR 5-7, 185, Sr.)

a. Skills Shown

Since he set foot in the Swamp, he's brought excitement to every kick and punt return. He has a knack for making the first guy miss. This year will give him four years of experience running back kicks. He's also made a handful of splash plays on offense, including catching 19 passes over the past two seasons.

b. Needs Improvement

While he's great in the open field, he hasn't shown much as a running back behind an offensive line. He has the same size deficiencies as Rainey.

c. Final Word

BJ could surprise us all and be an effective runner in the NFL. Small backs like Darren Sproles of San Diego and Willie Parker of Pittsburgh have had success. Both guys had plenty of experience at RB in college, though. Unless he returns four kicks for TDs this year or takes full advantage of some playing time on offense, James will be lucky to make an NFL roster. If not drafted, I'm sure he'll get picked up for a team's training camp and will be given an opportunity at the next level.

Well, that's just five of our guys. There's plenty more NFL caliber talent on the roster. I also still think Tebow will go in the first-round as a QB.

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