2011 NFL Draft: College Football Scouting Guide (Part One)

Danny Flynn

Aug 15, 2010

The 2010 edition of the college football season is just a few weeks away and you can tell the excitement is starting to build. Players and coaches are grinding their way through the heat of summer camp while fans are dusting off their jerseys and tailgate gear, and analysts are breaking out the microphones.

Everyone is preparing for another season of high-octane action.

There are a variety of tremendously skilled players in the college game right now, and there are some that will enter the season with NFL aspirations.

Scouting the college ranks for future NFL talent can be both exciting and frustrating all at the same time. Trying to predict if a 21-year-old kid can develop and mature into a quality professional athlete is no easy task.

There are always certain players, however, whose ability sticks out as being superior to the rest. And these are the players who usually have the best shot at a successful NFL career. It’s all about looking for the proper traits that will translate to the NFL.

What I like to do every year is compile a preseason list that includes the kids I feel will evolve into the best prospects for the following year’s NFL Draft. The list includes not only seniors, but also eligible underclassmen (juniors and redshirt sophomores) since most of the elite talent usually lies in the younger classes.

This is the first time I’ve ever published the list so I’ve decided to make it as extensive, thorough, and detailed as possible.

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Now I am in no way, shape, or form a professional NFL scout, but I have been doing this for a number of years so I have a decent enough idea of what the scouts are looking for in a young player.

I do this as a personal hobby and the only opinion I value is my own. I’ve been a college student working a full time job recently so even though I watch a lot of college football, I have neither the time nor the resources to scout every single player individually by watching hours of game tape on them.

Still, I’ve always felt that proper research is important and looking at a player’s background and makeup can really tell you a lot.

We are still at the very beginning stages of the evaluation process.

Every player will see their stock rise and fall throughout the season and postseason when events like the Senior Bowl, Scouting Combine, and individual pro days will take place.

There will be players who will emerge out of the shadows to become hot names around NFL scouting circles as the season unfolds. For example, a guy like Mike Iupati, an offensive guard out of Idaho, wasn’t on a lot of people’s radars until around December.

Iupati climbed the ranks from a relative unknown to become a top 20 pick by the time all was said and done.

That’s what makes the ride so fun every year. For me, it’s always interesting to watch which players breakout and become stars. That’s what I love about college football.

I’m fully expecting this season to be much more entertaining from a scouting standpoint. Remember No. 1 pick Sam Bradford was out pretty much the whole season last year, and that certainly put a damper on things.

There are some interesting storylines surrounding a lot of different prospects this year, and the looming NFL lockout might throw a nice fun twist into the middle of things.

So without further ado, here is Flynn Scouting Service's preview of the key seniors and underclassmen you need to watch during the 2010 College Football season.

Part one of the preview includes an individual breakdown of my top forty prospects.

Part two can be found here: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/436806-2011-nfl-draft-college-football-scouting-guide-part-2

This includes my rankings of 500 seniors and underclassmen by specific position.

“The Flynn Forty”

1. Quarterback – Terrelle Pryor
School: Ohio State
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘6
Weight: 230
Jersey # 2

2009 Statistics
CMP/ATT: 167/295 (56 %)
Yards: 2,094
Passing TDs: 18
Interceptions: 11
Sacked: 22
Rating: 128

High School: Jeannette
Hometown: Jeannette, Pennsylvania
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 QB), Rivals (#1 DTQB)

Report:There are very few human beings on this planet who are genetically gifted to be elite athletes, but Terrelle Pryor just so happens to be one those people blessed with rare gifts. From the time he was a junior in high school, it was evident that Pryor was something special.

Everyone saw it when he carried Jeannette to a state championship in his senior year of high school and soon became the biggest recruiting sensation in the nation.

The hype was massive when he came to Columbus and the pressure was on from the get go.

He gave glimpses of being a star but he also had to deal with bumps in the road and criticisms along the way. His passing prowess wasn’t where it needed it to be to carry a team to a National Championship as just a sophomore.

The only thing he needed though was time to grow and learn.

As we saw in the Rose Bowl, the hype was warranted and the young man is a superstar in the making. Maybe expectations were just a little too high early on.

Pryor has grown and transformed as not only a football player but also as a man during his time at Ohio State. He is ready to reach the level of greatness that many expected from him when he joined the college ranks.

His passing isn’t yet at an NFL level, but his ability is just too great to gloss over.

There will be the doubters and the critics popping up at every turn, and Pryor will keep showing them up with each performance just like he did in the Rose Bowl last season.

I have a strong feeling that the Buffalo Bills will have the No. 1 pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, and I fully expect Chan Gailey and the organization to make Pryor their face of the franchise.

Terrelle is a perfect fit for what the NFL is evolving into. He is the LeBron James of college football, and he’s a kid everyone wants to see. He has that rare “it” factor that doesn’t come along very often.

2. Defensive End - Robert Quinn
School: North Carolina
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘5
Weight: 270
Jersey #42

2009 Statistics
Sacks:11
Tackles For a Loss: 19
Total Tackles: 52
Solo Tackles: 35
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: Ft. Dorchester
Hometown: Ladson, South Carolina
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#19 DE), Rivals (#18 SSDE)

Report: Quinn has become a true inspiration story and not just for his performance on the football field. After surgery to remove a benign brain tumor cut his senior season in high school short, the speedy edge rusher has rebounded to become one of the most feared defenders in the college game. Even though he’s only been in Chapel Hill for two seasons, Quinn has already racked up 13 sacks and 25 tackles for a loss.

His penetration ability is virtually unmatched and his speed off the edge is just too tough to contain. Although, to label him just another dominant pass rusher would be shortsighted. Quinn has the strength to hold his own against the run, and he has no problem staying strong at the point of attack.

Robert is, however, going to have to add at least 10-15 pounds of good weight to his frame if he wants to hold up in the pros.

The way his body is structured, I foresee no problem for him trying to bump up to about 285 pounds with the proper NFL training and nutrition program.

Most around the Tar Heel program have already claimed Quinn is the best defensive lineman the school has seen since Julius Peppers left.

Peppers was selected second in the 2002 NFL Draft, and I can definitely see Quinn reaching the top five if he keeps causing the same type of backfield trouble in his junior year.

3. Cornerback – Patrick Peterson
School: LSU
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘1
Weight: 220
Jersey #7

2009 Statistics
INTs: 2
Passes Broken Up: 13
Solo Tackles: 43
Assists: 9

High School: Ely
Hometown: Pompano Beach, Florida
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 CB), Rivals (#1 CB)

Report: A safety’s size coupled with a cornerback’s skills makes Patrick Peterson a truly valuable commodity.

At 6‘1'' 220 pounds of muscle, you won’t see many cornerbacks that look like Patrick Peterson. In my opinion, he’s the best cover corner in the country.

And there are plenty of people that would agree with me.

Peterson has shut down some of the elite receivers of the SEC without even flinching.

He’s the type of defensive back that will not only shut down one player; he can shut down an entire side of the field.

There aren’t many cornerbacks who you would define as “playmakers” but Patrick is definitely one of the chosen few.

My goodness (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BngI6yAtTLE)

4. Wide Receiver – Michael Floyd
School: Notre Dame
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘3
Weight: 225
Jersey #3

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 9
Receptions: 44
Receiving Yards: 795
Yards Per Reception: 18.1
Longest Catch: 88 yards

High School: Cretin Derham Hall
Hometown: St. Paul, Minnesota
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#5 WR), Rivals (#6 WR)

Report: He’s big, fast, and ready to show the country that Notre Dame football is far from a dead brand. He’s Michael Floyd, and he’s the best wide receiver in the country.

He’s the kid who made it to the end zone in six out of the seven games he played in last season. He’s the kid that is about to absolutely light things up in Brian Kelly’s spread offense.

He’s the kid that would probably be one of the five biggest names in college football right now if it weren’t for a shoulder injury that sidelined him for five games last season.

He’s Michael Floyd, and he’s about to take things over in 2010.

5. Offensive Tackle – Anthony Castonzo
School: Boston College
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘7
Weight: 295
Jersey #74

2009 Statistics
Starts: 13
Team Rushing Yards Per Game: 137
Team Sacks Allowed: 20

High School: Lake Zurich
Prep School: Fork Union Military Academy
Hometown: Lake Zurich, Illinois
Recruit Rating: Average - Scout (2 Stars), Rivals (2 Stars)

Report: If you can come in and start every game from your freshman year up until your senior season, it must mean you’re doing something right.

That’s exactly what Anthony Castonzo, Boston College’s big left tackle, has done during his three-year collegiate career.

Castonzo has started 41 career games (14 at right tackle and 27 at left tackle) for the Eagles.

He arrived at Boston College right when Jeff Jagodzinski was switching the team’s offensive philosophy to a zone running scheme. The quick footed big man fit right in with the flow of the system and has been dominating ever since.

Anthony has the size, agility, footwork, and hand technique that you would want in a prototypical zone blocking offensive tackle.

Boston College has produced some quality offensive line prospects recently and Castonzo looks like he could be the best of them all.

6. Quarterback - Jake Locker
School: Washington
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘3
Weight: 230
Jersey #10

2009 Statistics
CMP/ATT: 230/395 (58 %)
Yards: 2,800
Passing TDs: 21
Interceptions: 11
Sacked: 28
Rating: 129

High School: Ferndale
Hometown: Ferndale, Washington
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#7 QB), Rivals (#4 DTQB)

Report: He’s already being crowned by many as the top pick in the 2011 Draft, but many of those supporters seem to be forgetting two big tidbits about Jake Locker.

For one, the senior quarterback has yet to lead his team to a winning season in the three years he’s been at the school. Secondly, Locker was given a second-round grade by the advisory committee last year, which is a major reason he decided to return to Seattle.

Now to be fair, if Jake had entered last year’s NFL Draft, he most certainly would have been a first-round selection and maybe even a top ten pick. But the second-round grade he received shows that there are still some areas scouts feel like Locker needs to work on and improve upon.

Physically, Jake has it all.

You won’t find many quarterbacks with his type of athleticism and mobility, especially at 6‘3'' 220 plus pounds. He’s got an outfielder’s arm and he can sling it around pretty well. He’s never going to lead the league in accuracy, but he gets the ball where it needs to be and he’s on target a good majority of the time.

There’s no denying his skills; the only thing scouts will want to see is Locker’s continued maturation as a quarterback and as a leader. With the help of Steve Sarkisian, the sky is the limit for Jake.

7. Linebacker - Akeem Ayers
School: UCLA
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 255
Jersey #10

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 75
Solo Tackles: 55
Tackles For a Loss: 14.5
Assists: 20
Sacks: 6
INTs: 4
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: Verbum Dei
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#12 DE), Rivals (#9 OLB)

Report: People who are Akeem Ayers’ size aren’t supposed to move as well as the 250 pound junior does. Ayers has agility and quickness that you don’t find very often in a college football linebacker.

After an outstanding sophomore season, Akeem looks like he’s ready to take the next step and solidify himself as the best linebacker in the country.

There are certainly little things he has to work on such as becoming more tenacious and fighting off blockers better, but from a raw ability standpoint, Akeem is a marvel.

He’s been blessed with some amazing ability and the scary part is he only has room to grow and improve with time.

He’s not the most instinctive linebacker you’ll ever come across and there’s some parts of his game that I don’t like (lack of aggression), but you can tell that Ayers has what it takes to be the real deal.

8. Cornerback - Curtis Brown
School: Texas
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘0
Weight: 185
Jersey #3

2009 Statistics
INTs: 1
Passes Broken Up: 7
Solo Tackles: 34
Assists: 13

High School: Gilmer
Hometown: Gilmer, Texas
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#3 CB), Rivals (#2 CB)

Report: Texas produced six first-round defensive backs over last decade, and now with Curtis Brown, it looks like they’ll start this decade off in a similar fashion.

Brown is still probably most infamously known around the nation for his missed tackle of Michael Crabtree that cost the Longhorns a shot at the National Championship. That one play, however, doesn’t truly reflect how great of a player the Texas senior really is.

A difference maker in the defensive backfield since his sophomore season, Brown is a super cornerback capable of becoming a number one option on an NFL defense.

He has excellent size for a corner, and his long frame allows him to lock on to any receiver he goes up against. Curtis has also the speed and hips to turn and run with anybody.

Brown is a sticky corner that should have a big future ahead of him in the pros.

9. Defensive End - Adrian Clayborn
School: Iowa
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 285
Jersey #94

2009 Statistics
Sacks:11.5
Tackles For a Loss: 20
Total Tackles: 70
Solo Tackles: 36
Forced Fumbles: 4

High School: Webster Groves
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#18 DE), Rivals (#8 SSDE)

Report: Georgia Tech found out very quickly in last season’s Orange Bowl just the type of overwhelming power that Adrian Clayborn possesses.

Clayborn sacked quarterback Josh Nesbitt twice and for the most part looked unblockable throughout the game.

Every team on Iowa’s 2009 schedule shared the feeling. They were all forced to try and figure out how to contain the Hawkeye defensive end. Last season Clayborn truly broke out and became one of the most devastating pass rushers in the country. He had a sack in eight different games, and put up a double digit sack performance in three different contests.

As a senior, Adrian will surely face more double teams, but even that might not be enough to contain him. With such a talented Hawkeye defensive line, it’s going to be hard for teams to handle Clayborn along with players such as Christian Ballard, Karl Klug, and Broderick Binns.

If Clayborn can keep up his quarterback hunting ways in his last season, I expect him to be a very high draft pick next year.

10. Offensive Tackle - Joseph Barksdale
School: LSU
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘6
Weight: 315
Jersey #78

2009 Statistics
Starts: 13
Team Rushing Yards Per Game: 123
Team Sacks Allowed: 37

High School: Cass Tech
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#4 DT), Rivals (#6 DT)

Report: After initially coming to Baton Rouge as a defensive line prospect, Barksdale quickly made the switch over to the offensive side of the trenches at the beginning of his freshman year.

He would go on to take over the right tackle spot as a sophomore, where he would stay for the next two seasons. During that time, Barksdale was the standout player on the LSU offensive line.

The athletic big man was too strong and powerful for most of the defensive lineman he went up against. Now he shifts his talents to the left side of the line to man the all important left tackle spot.

Barksdale looks the part with the perfect size and build. He’s not a finesse tackle by any means and once he gets on defender, he rarely lets them go. He’s strong in his base and at times he plays with an aggressive and ferocious nature that can really take its toll on opponents.

LSU’s line may have received its fair share of criticism recently. Plus, the Tigers haven’t sent many quality offensive lineman to the pros over the past few years, but that will definitely change this year with Barksdale.

11. Linebacker - Michael Morgan
School: USC
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 220
Jersey #17

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 50
Solo Tackles: 28
Tackles For a Loss: 13
Assists: 22
Sacks: 4
INTs: 0
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Skyline
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#34 LB), Rivals (#5 OLB)

Report: Possibly the most athletic linebacker in the country, Michael Morgan has not yet received the attention he deserves as an NFL prospect.

It’s true Morgan has yet to start a full season at the outside linebacker spot for the Trojans, but that doesn’t mean his his ability should be downgraded. The 6‘4'' dynamic athlete has shown flashes of being special during his time on the field.

He has the speed to get by any offensive lineman on his way to rushing the passer and he can also cover a lot of ground and track down ball carriers with ease.

With a dominant front four in front of him and guys like Chris Galippo and Malcolm Smith alongside of him, Morgan should flourish in 2010.

He’s still a little frail by NFL standards and he’s going to have to add a few pounds once he gets to the next level. Nonetheless, Michael is the type of instinctive and athletic linebacker that NFL teams desire.

12. Quarterback - Ryan Mallett
School: Arkansas
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘6
Weight: 235
Jersey #15

2009 Statistics
CMP/ATT: 225/403 (55 %)
Yards: 3,627
Passing TDs: 30
Interceptions: 7
Sacked: 24
Rating: 152

High School: Texas
Hometown: Texarkana, Arkansas
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#2 QB), Rivals (#2 PSQB)

Report: In my opinion, one of the toughest players to read in the junior class is quarterback Ryan Mallett.

Mallett has the size and arm that comes along every couple of years. And you really have to savor it when a kid that big can throw the football that good.

I’m so tempted to say he has number one pick potential, but then I start to look at the negatives and the benefits he has to work with.

Scouts are going to knock him for playing in Bobby Petrino’s offense even though that’s a bit unfair. He also has a quality group of wide receivers to throw to that don’t get near the attention they deserve, most notably Greg Childs.

With that said, when I turn on the highlight tape of Mallett and just watch him throw the ball, it really is fun to watch. Just watching his footwork and his fluid mechanics is a real treat.

Mallett is the type of player that has it come easy to him. He’s the kind of kid that was born to be a quarterback. But that doesn’t necessarily mean success is in store for him at the pro level.

I think with another solid season, Mallett is the type of player that would be a good option for a team like the Jaguars who have an unclear future at the quarterback position but not necessarily a dire need for a quick fix.

13. Defensive End: Marcell Dareus
School:Alabama
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 305
Jersey #57

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 6.5
Tackles For a Loss: 9
Total Tackles: 33
Solo Tackles: 19
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Huffman
Hometown: Huffman, Alabama
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#5 DT), Rivals (#28 DT)

Report: He may not have been a full-time starter last season, but Marcell Darues still made his presence felt in 2009. When the big moment presented itself, Dareus seemed to be the one to thrive and make a big play.

Whether it be in the national championship against Texas or in or in a crucial conference match up with LSU, Dareus always seemed to be making something happen when it counted the most.

Dareus has the perfect makeup for a 3-4 defensive end and is equally effective against the run and the pass. There aren’t many 300 pounders that can get up the field like Marcell can.

His immense potential could have gotten him into some hot water this offseason. Dareus was one of the many big NFL prospects involved in the Miami agent party scandal.

We will have to wait and see how the investigation turns out and what the consequences are.

14. Running Back - Daniel Thomas
School: Kansas State
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 230
Jersey #8

2009 Statistics
Attempts: 247
Rushing Yards: 1,265
Average Yards Per Carry: 5.1
Rushing TDs: 11
Receptions: 25

High School: Hilliard
Junior College: Northwest Mississippi Community
Hometown: Hilliard, Florida
Recruit Rating: Above Average - Scout (3 Star S), Rivals (4 Star ATH)

Report: If you ever hear NFL scouts talk about a running back prospect, the term “quick to the line” will usually pop up in the conversation. In non-scout lingo, “quick to the line” means how fast a back can get from his stance to the line of scrimmage. It’s a crucial element for success in the NFL, and it just so happens to be something Daniel Thomas excels at.

During his short career at K-State, Thomas has shown he is often too quick for his own offensive line to keep up with; therefore you’ll see him take some sort of side or stutter step when the play begins so the timing of the play stays in sync.

That just goes to show the type of super athlete the 6’2'' back really is. He has the size and athleticism to be a main RB in the NFL, now all Thomas has to do is add to his body of work and show scouts that his great 2009 season was no fluke.

I haven’t seen a back that I would refer to as purely a “monster" since Steven Jackson came out of Oregon State back in 2004. Thomas looks like he could be deserving of that title though.

15. Safety - Will Hill
School: Florida
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘1
Weight: 205
Jersey #10

2009 Statistics
INTs: 0
Passes Broken Up: 1
Solo Tackles: 31
Assists: 11

High School: St. Peters Prep
Hometown: Jersey City, New Jersey
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 S), (#1 ATH)

Report: With Major Wright and Joe Haden off to the NFL, the Florida secondary needs a new leader.

It won’t have to look very far.

Will Hill is ready for the duty.

Hill, a breathtaking athlete, is a star waiting to be born. He only started five games in 2009, but his time is now. He has the size, athleticism, range, and tackling ability to be the best safety to ever lace them up in Gainesville.

I know that’s high praise for a kid just going into his junior year, who hasn’t even started a full season yet. But to say Will has tremendous potential is a true understatement.

With guys like Hill, Janoris Jenkins, and Ahmad Black manning the defensive backfield; Florida isn’t in as big of trouble defensively as some would think.

16. Cornerback - Omar Bolden
School: Arizona State
Class: Junior
Height: 5‘10
Weight: 195
Jersey #3

2009 Statistics
INTs: 1
Passes Broken Up: 1
Solo Tackles: 2
Assists: 2

High School: Colony
Hometown: Ontario, California
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#16 CB), Rivals (#7 APRB)

Report: It’s a bit risky to put Omar this high considering he’s coming off a knee injury that ended his 2009 season after just four games. But I feel that the injury gave Bolden some time to reflect on what he needs to do to reach the level that his potential warrants.

Bolden has shutdown cornerback skills, and he has the confidence and mindset to man up against any receiver put in front of him.

He showed some serious ability during his first two seasons, now it’s going to come down to how he can rebound from the injury and mature into a leader on defense.

I expect big things from the junior in 2010.

17. Defensive Tackle - Cam Heyward
School: Ohio State
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘5
Weight: 290
Jersey #97

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 6.5
Tackles For a Loss: 10
Total Tackles: 46
Solo Tackles: 21
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Peachtree Ridge
Hometown: Suwanne, Georgia
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#20 DT), Rivals (#13 DT)

Report: Cameron, the son of the late Ironhead Heyward, has been a chip off the old block during his time at Ohio State.

The big lineman has been a force for Ohio State since his freshman season when he totaled nine tackles for a loss and two sacks. Heyward earned Freshman All America honors that year and has managed to elevate his game each season since.

He can project as either an end or a tackle at the next level but he would probably fit best as a 3-4 defensive end.

Heyward will be one of the main leaders for the Buckeye defense and he will be counted on heavily if the team is serious about making a run at the National Championship.

18. Running Back - LaMichael James
School: Oregon
Class: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 5‘9
Weight: 185
Jersey #21

2009 Statistics
Attempts: 230
Rushing Yards: 1,546
Average Yards Per Carry: 6.7
Rushing TDs: 14
Receptions: 17

High School: Liberty Eylau
Hometown: New Boston, Texas
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#40 RB), Rivals (#12 APB)

Report: When Legarrette Blount decided to punch his way out of the starting running back spot at the beginning of the 2009 season, many Duck fans thought the consequences would be dire.

That is until they got a good look at the lightning fast LaMichael James. The shifty freshman broke onto the scene and used his track speed to run past the competition. His agility and creativity in the open field made him a tough player to bring down.

His 1,500 yard rushing season opened the eyes of college football fans nationwide and earned him a lot of respect and postseason hardware.

I’m not too concerned with LaMichael’s assault charges, but what I am concerned with is his size.

At just 5‘9'' 180 pounds, James doesn’t have the bulk to withstand 20 carries a game in the NFL. But luckily with the current reliance on two-back systems, there is definitely a spot for him to succeed in the pros.

Home run backs with that type of elusiveness aren’t easy to come by.

19. Defensive End - Sam Acho
School: Texas
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘3
Weight: 260
Jersey #81

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 7
Tackles For a Loss: 13
Total Tackles: 59
Solo Tackles: 42
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: St. Marks
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#23 DE), Rivals (#23 SSDE)

Report: Ndamukong Suh may have gotten all the praise for his performance in last year’s Big 12 Championship, but there was another defensive lineman in that game that came up with another head turning performance.

That lineman is Sam Acho of Texas.

Acho was a big reason the Nebraska offense remained stagnant throughout the game. He had that type of effect on many of the offenses the Longhorns went up against throughout the 2009 season.

Sam is extremely quick off the ball and packs a powerful punch. He moves fast and is not fun to try and block. He has a good short area burst and is a very explosive player.

His weight (260 pounds) is on the smallish size, but he makes up for it with his hustle and his character.

Acho is the type of kid that will endear himself to scouts during postseason evaluations. He has a strong value system that includes hard work, religion, and studying.

Sam is a great football player and an even better young man.

20. Wide Receiver - Greg Little
School: North Carolina
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘3
Weight: 220
Jersey #8

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 5
Receptions: 62
Receiving Yards: 724
Yards Per Reception: 11.7
Longest Catch: 62 yards

High School: Hillside
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#12 WR), Rivals (#13 ATH)

Report: Little is a phenomenal athlete who has used his explosiveness as both a running back and a wide receiver during his time at North Carolina. He is a big, physical presence whose strength and speed is too much for most defensive backs to handle.

He hasn’t gotten the chance to show off his full potential just yet because of the inconsistencies the Tar Heels have faced at the quarterback position.

It would be sad if Greg doesn’t have a chance to meet his potential this season due to the recent allegations regarding contact with an agent that he’s facing.

21. Nose Tackle - Phil Taylor
School: Baylor
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 340
Jersey #98

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 0.5
Tackles For a Loss: 2.5
Total Tackles: 25
Solo Tackles: 8
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Gwynn Park
Hometown: Clinton, Maryland
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#29 DT), Rivals (#11 DT)

Report: The future of Phil Taylor’s football career looked to be in major jeopardy after he was kicked off the Penn State football team for fighting in the summer of 2008. Taylor had played two seasons in Happy Valley before the departure. He started the final five games of the 2007 season, and was a major cog in the defense’s efforts to shut down opposing rushers.

After being booted by Paterno, the Maryland native reemerged down in Waco, Texas at Baylor. He came into the 2009 season with some big expectations, but failed to live up to the hype. Even though he played in all 12 games and ended up starting nine, Phil was noticeably out of shape, and there were times when his effort was questioned.

After learning his lesson about what it takes to go up against the offenses of the Big 12 on a weekly basis, it now looks like Taylor is finally ready to reach his potential in his last go round.

He has everything it takes to be a starting nose tackle in an NFL defense. Now it’s up to Taylor to show that his commitment level is there.

22. Tight End - Kyle Rudolph
School: Notre Dame
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘6
Weight: 265
Jersey #9

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 3
Receptions: 33
Receiving Yards: 364
Yards Per Reception: 11
Longest Catch: 52

High School: Elder
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 TE), Rivals (#1 TE)

Report: Brian Kelly has only been the coach at Notre Dame for a few months, but he’s already seen enough of Kyle Rudolph to declare him the best tight end in the nation.

There are many who would agree that the junior is indeed the best pro prospect at the tight end position. Rudolph came to South Bend as the top tight end recruit in the 2008 high school recruiting class, and he could leave the school as the top tight end prospect in the 2011 NFL Draft class.

Kyle has been a starter for the Irish since stepping foot on campus and has really started to come into his own recently. He became a big factor in Charlie Weis’ pass heavy offense, and now with new coach Brian Kelly implementing his high octane spread, it would seem Rudolph is now primed for a huge season in 2010.

23. Running Back - Mark Ingram
School: Alabama
Class: Junior
Height: 5‘10
Weight: 215
Jersey #22

2009 Statistics
Attempts: 271
Rushing Yards: 1,658
Average Yards Per Carry: 6.1
Rushing TDs: 17
Receptions: 32

High School: Southwestern Academy
Hometown: Flint, Michigan
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#58 RB), Rivals (#17 ATH)

Report: While it’s been proven that the Heisman Trophy certainly doesn’t guarantee NFL success, it has been shown that it helps a player gain attention from the pro scouts. Four out of the last five running backs to win the historic award have gone on to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.

After the 2010 season, Mark Ingram will be eligible to join them.

He’s not the biggest, fastest, or shiftiest of ball carriers, but Ingram does exactly what you want your running back to do - he produces.

NFL teams are looking for backs that can rack up the yards and keep the chains moving, and that’s exactly what Ingram has done while at Alabama.

His performance at the combine won’t break any records, but if Ingram can have another season of quality production, it’ll be hard for teams to overlook him if he decides to come out next year.

Teammate Trent Richardson may be the more talented of the two, but so far it’s Ingram who has shown he can get it done when it matters most. Both backs have bright futures ahead of them.

24. Defensive Tackle – Marvin Austin
School: North Carolina
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘3
Weight: 310
Jersey #9

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 4
Tackles For a Loss: 6
Total Tackles: 42
Solo Tackles: 22
Forced Fumbles: 1

High School: Ballou
Hometown: Washington D.C.
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 DT), Rivals (#1 DT)

Report: The highlight of Butch Davis’s first recruiting class at North Carolina was a highly rated defensive tackle out of Washington D.C. named Marvin Austin.

Austin was considered by most recruiting services to be the top football prospect in the country, so it was a major coup for Davis to get him in just his first year on the job.

Marvin would step in as an instant impact player as a freshman and has yet to let up. While his accomplishments haven’t quite lived up to the billing he had as a high school senior, Austin has still been a very effective member of the tenacious Tar Heel defense.

He has a wild personality and his up tempo play certainly reflects that.

It was expected that the big man would finally turn on all the jets and emerge as a top ten type player this year, but the recent NCAA accusations could end up costing Austin his senior season.

Austin has the potential to be the top defensive tackle in next year’s class but we have to wait and see how the NCAA’s investigation plays out. If Marvin sits out the year, it could hurt his stock considering he hasn't exactly been the model of consistency in his career up to this point.

25. Safety - Mark Barron
School: Alabama
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 210
Jersey #4

2009 Statistics
INTs: 7
Passes Broken Up: 11
Solo Tackles: 42
Assists: 32

High School: St. Paul’s
Hometown: Mobile, Alabama
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 WLB), Rivals (#5 ATH)

Report: Mark Barron will be Alabama’s key defensive leader in 2010 as one of just two starters returning from last year’s national championship squad.

Barron became Nick Saban’s shining star of the secondary last season. He became the playmaker that many envisioned him becoming upon arriving in Tuscaloosa.

He creates havoc on a routine basis and is the type of player that needs to be accounted for on every play. Barron is a linebacker with the speed and coverage ability to play safety.

If Alabama’s defense can remain at a top level in 2010, it will most definitely have to do with the play of their all star caliber safety.

26. Cornerback - Brandon Harris
School: Miami
Class: Junior
Height: 5‘11
Weight: 195
Jersey #1

2009 Statistics
INTs: 2
Passes Broken Up: 15
Solo Tackles: 40
Assists: 18

High School: Booker T. Washington
Hometown: Miami, Florida
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#5 CB), Rivals (#3 CB)

Report: Brandon Harris is the type of pro prospect that the Canes used to produce during their dominant run in the early part of the millennium. The Miami native is a major help to the Canes in their quest to return back to greatness.

Harris has been a key member of the secondary since his freshman year. He has superior ball skills and isn’t afraid to mix it up in the run game. He’s smart and has really good recognition in coverage.

I also really like his mindset. He’s got confidence and swagger and he’the type of DB that never lets a bad play stick with him. That’s the type of mentality you want in your main cornerback.

He’s got the head for the position and I expect Brandon’s athleticism to really open up the eyes of the scouts this season.

27. Outside Linebacker - Nigel Bradham
School: Florida State
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 240
Jersey #13

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 93
Solo Tackles: 61
Tackles For a Loss: 5.5
Assists: 32
Sacks: 2
INTs: 1
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Wakulla
Hometown: Crawfordville, Florida
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#1 MLB), Rivals (#1 OLB)

Report: The 2009 edition of Florida State’s defense was one of the weakest in the recent history of the school. But that doesn’t mean the Noles didn’t have a few strong players on that unit.

The strongest of those players was linebacker Nigel Bradham.

Florida State has produced some great linebackers in the last couple decades and they may have another potentially great one in Bradham.

Nigel led the team in tackles in 2009, and was a true force to be reckoned with in every game. He flies around the field and makes plays on a regular basis. He’s strong, physical, and hits like a truck.

Mark Stoops will design some defenses that let Bradham really shine. Nigel has the potential to be a starting weakside linebacker on an NFL team from the day he walks into camp.

Look for a big improvement from the Florida State defense with this gifted linebacker leading the way.

28. Wide Receiver - Ryan Broyles
School: Oklahoma
Class: Junior
Height: 5‘11
Weight: 185
Jersey #85

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 15
Receptions: 89
Receiving Yards: 1,120
Yards Per Reception: 12.6
Longest Catch: 51

High School: Norman
Hometown: Norman, Oklahoma
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#23 CB), Rivals (#11 CB)

Report: It’s never easy for a receiver to lose his starting quarterback at the beginning of the season, but somehow Ryan Broyles was able to handle those very circumstances and still shine.

Broyles was forced to find a rapport with freshman Landry Jones, who was thrown into the fire after Sam Bradford’s season ending shoulder injury. The two seemed comfortable with each other almost immediately and they blossomed into a dynamic passing combination.

In Oklahoma’s last game of the year, the Sun Bowl against Stanford, Jones and Broyles racked up over 150 yards through the air and connected on three scoring plays.

It’s those kind of performances that should have Oklahoma fans very excited for what 2010 could bring.

Broyles may not be the biggest receiver but he is an electric playmaker that is a true threat anytime he lines up out on the field. He’s been consistent since his freshman year, and looks ready to keep on producing at a fevered pace in 2010.

29. Defensive End - Allen Bailey
School: Miami
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 285
Jersey #57

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 7
Tackles For a Loss: 11
Total Tackles: 34
Solo Tackles: 19
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: McIntosh County Academy
Hometown: Sapelo, Georgia
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#7 DE), Rivals (#7 SSDE)

Report: Allen Bailey has bounced between defensive end and defensive tackle throughout his career at Miami. And he now looks to have found his home at defensive end for the 2010 season.

At 285 pounds, that seems like the best fit for the senior.

Now that he’s on the edge, Bailey can put his tremendous pass rushing skills to good use. He has the type of quick penetration ability that can prove to be too tough for most college offensive lineman to handle.

Bailey has been used in a variety of different roles during his career in order to utilize his strengths. From being put on the inside in a four-point stance all the way to being stood up as a rush linebacker, Miami has found a lot of different ways to use Bailey in their defense.

That versatility will only aid him when the scouts start evaluating his game tape.

30. Inside Linebacker - Brad Jefferson
School: Georgia Tech
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 245
Jersey #51

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 96
Solo Tackles: 45
Tackles For a Loss: 8
Assists: 50
Sacks: 0
INTs: 0
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: Johnson County
Hometown: Wrightsville, Georgia
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#12 WLB), Rivals (#19 ILB)

Report: A “hit you and you go backwards” type of player; they certainly don’t make many as solid and stout as Brad Jefferson. The 240 pound rock in the middle led the Jackets in tackles last season, and he looks to do the same this year.

New defensive coordinator Al Groh’s 3-4 scheme looks like it suits Jefferson perfectly.

Moving side to side, flowing, and covering ground isn’t Brad’s strong point. Rather he is most proficient at reading the play and making stops when the ball is coming right at him. He can run through contact and doesn’t get caught up in traffic very often.

Don’t be fooled though, Jefferson is no stiff. He has some great agility for his size and he seems very natural when he moves. To be a great linebacker, you really have to have a powerful pair of hips, and Jefferson looks like he has a core which can rival that of any other player in college football.

Chan Gailey may be gone but his legacy has lived on in some of the great defensive players he recruited to the school. Jefferson looks to be the next in line of Jacket defenders making the move up to the pros.

31. Cornerback - Chris Culliver
School: South Carolina
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘1
Weight: 200
Jersey #17

2009 Statistics
INTs: 0
Passes Broken Up: 9
Solo Tackles: 41
Assists: 21

High School: Garner
Hometown: Garner, North Carolina
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#13 S), Rivals (#3 WR)

Report: Culliver will make the move from free safety to cornerback this season as the Gamecocks coaching staff felt a switch with Akeem Auguste was the right move for the defense. It could turn out to be just what the doctor ordered for South Carolina. Culliver looks like he has the speed and awareness to be a real difference maker on the outside.

The switch also helps Chris, who recently had offseason shoulder surgery, ease into a role that will allow him to shy away from the big hits that were damaging his body.

Hitting isn’t the biggest part of Culliver’s game anyways. His top-end speed is the trait that really sets him apart as an elite defensive back. His speed has been an asset to the Gamecocks not only on defense, but on special teams as well. Chris is one of the best kick returners in school history, and has really made a difference in the field position game when the ball is kicked to him.

Expect the senior to make a few mistakes as he learns the instincts and mindset it takes to be a cornerback. But once he gets the hang of things, he should be a top flight coverman.

He’ll probably have to make the move back to safety in the pros, but if he can show he can handle the corner position, it isn’t out of the realm of possibilities that Chris could stay there for the rest of his football career.

32. Defensive Tackle - Sione Fua
School: Stanford
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 305
Jersey #92

2009 Statistics
Sacks: 1.5
Tackles For a Loss: 3
Total Tackles: 24
Solo Tackles: 6
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Crespi Carmelite
Hometown: Encino, California
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#17 DT), Rivals (#47 DT)

Report: At just about 300 pounds, Sione Fua doesn’t have the sheer mass needed to be a 3-4 nose tackle at the next level. But with his strength at the point of attack, expect the senior to be just fine in the middle of Stanford’s 3-4 defense.

Fua is well built and can handle the double teams that offenses are going to throw at him this year. He showed he could really occupy blockers during the latter stages of the 2009 season. After breaking into the starting lineup early in the year, the defensive tackle continually progressed into a dominant force in the middle of Stanford’s defense.

Sione isn’t the greatest pass rusher out there, but he doesn’t need to be. His game is all about causing havoc in the middle and letting the players around him make plays. He’s a bit of a scheme limited player, but if he ends up on the right NFL defense, he could really make a difference.

33. Wide Receiver - DeVier Posey
School: Ohio State
Class: Junior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 200
Jersey #8

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 8
Receptions: 60
Receiving Yards: 828
Yards Per Reception: 13.8
Longest Catch: 62

High School: LaSalle
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Recruit Rating: Elite - Scout (#4 WR), Rivals (#3 WR)

Report: Ohio State was looking for a go to guy in the passing game after the departures of Brian Robiskie and Brian Hartline and they undoubtedly found him in the form of DeVier Posey.

Posey became Terrelle Pryor’s top target in 2009 as just a sophomore. The two hooked up for their fair share of big plays including a dazzling picture perfect strike in the waning moments of last season’s Rose Bowl.

DeVier has the size and the track speed to be a a major weapon for an NFL team. He has a great acceleration and burst to really separate himself from opposing defenders.

Not only is he great at stretching the field; he’s also crisp in his underneath patterns, and he really shows a great timing and feel for running routes.

Posey has every trait you want in an elite receiver, and if he keeps progressing and making plays, he has the definite potential to be a first rounder in next year’s NFL Draft.

There’s a lot of junior wide receivers that are gaining some attention, but in my opinion, Posey is the real guy to watch this year.

34. Cornerback: Lametrius Davis
School: Hawaii
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘0
Weight: 190
Jersey #2

2009 Statistics
INTs: 3
Passes Broken Up: 8
Solo Tackles: 34
Assists: 7

High School: Roosevelt
Junior College: Butte Community
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Recruit Rating: Average - Scout (2 Star CB), Rivals (3 Star CB)

Report: It’s true Lametrius Davis probably isn’t a household name considering he plays defensive back (not exactly a glamour position) and he does so out in the far reaches of Honolulu, Hawaii. Add to that the fact that he’s only been playing major college football for a year and it’s easy to see why Davis could be overlooked.

What can’t be overlooked though is the skills that Lametrius possesses. He might still be a little raw when it comes to fundamentals and the nuances of the cornerback position, but Davis is a tremendous athlete who can run with any receiver he goes up against.

You’re going to look at the passing numbers that opponents put up on Hawaii in 2009 (64 % completion, 337 passing yards a game) and ask yourself, “well if this is guy is so great, why were the Warriors getting toasted so much last season?” You have to remember though that there were a lot of new faces in that secondary and struggles were bound to happen.

This year, every one of the defensive backs return including talented safety Mana Silva. With all that help around him, Davis is the type of guy that can really make a huge leap up the ladder in 2010.

He’s oozing with potential.

35. Offensive Guard - Bryant Browning
School: Ohio State
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 315
Jersey #70

2009 Statistics
Starts: 13
Team Rushing Yards Per Game: 195
Team Sacks Allowed: 24

High School: Glenville
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#61 OL), Rivals (#20 OG)

Report: Ohio State’s offensive line is usually one of the best in college football on a yearly basis. The “Tressel Ball” offensive style of play that Buckeyes employ calls for big run blocking lineman that can pound their opponent play in and play out with the stamina to last all four quarters.

Bryant Browning certainly fits the mold of what a Buckeye offensive lineman should be. He is big, strong, and physical, and can absolutely dominate in the the running game. Browning also has a good amount of athleticism and he’s definitely not a one trick pony type of guard.

Bryant has the feet and feel to move around in pass protection, and he also possess a solid foundation and base to handle a strong bullrush from opposing interior lineman.

He started off his career at tackle before moving inside to guard, which is what he’ll play in the pros.

36. Safety - Deunta Williams
School: North Carolina
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘2
Weight: 215
Jersey #27

2009 Statistics
INTs: 6
Passes Broken Up: 8
Solo Tackles: 34
Assists: 13

High School: White Oak
Hometown: Jacksonville, North Carolina
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#14 S), Rivals (#25 ATH)

Report: Sometimes there are players that just seem like they are everywhere on the field at all times. And Deunta Williams definitely falls into that category. Whether it’s making a big tackle in the backfield, a crucial pass deflection, or a game changing interception, Williams always seems to have his nose in on the play.

That’s exactly what you want from a safety, and it’s one of the reasons North Carolina’s defense has made the transformation into one of the best in the nation.

Deunta owns the back end of the field, and if you to try come into his territory, he’s going to make you pay.

Playing alongside so many remarkably talented players has certainly benefited the senior throughout his career. But some could use it as a knock against him when draft time rolls around.

Yes, things are a little easier when your defensive line is constantly pressuring the quarterback and your cornerbacks are locking down receivers, but that shouldn’t be a knock against a safety if he’s truly talented. Deunta seems like the he would be a difference maker regardless of who is playing around him.

37. Wide Receiver - Chris Matthews
School: Kentucky
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘5
Weight: 220
Jersey #8

2009 Statistics
Receiving TDs: 3
Receptions: 32
Receiving Yards: 354
Yards Per Reception: 11.1
Longest Catch: 37

High School: Dorsey
Junior College: Los Angeles Harbor
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Recruit Rating: Above Average - Scout (3 Star WR), Rivals (4 Star WR)

Report: One of the true wildcards this season is Kentucky’s Chris Matthews, who has the ability to really make a name for himself in 2010.

The senior wide receiver came over from Los Angeles Harbor College, where he was absolutely unstoppable, and made an impact in the Kentucky offense right away last season. He finished second on the team in receiving behind the versatile Randall Cobb. His 32 catches and 3 TDs certainly aren’t eye popping, jump off the page type of stats, but the Wildcats weren’t exactly the picture of stability at the QB position last season.

If you were going to look at numbers when it comes to Matthews, throw out the stats and look at his size to speed ratio. You won’t find many 6‘5'' 220 pound receivers that can break the 4.5 mark in the 40 yard dash.

He’s going to be that “look around” guy at the combine. That’s the type of player that scouts see and then immediately start looking around to confer with other scouts as to say “hey are you all seeing this freakin kid.”

There are already some coaches at Kentucky like Tee Martin who feel Matthews possess first round ability. Time will tell, but I don’t think they’re very far off with those type of assessments.

38. Outside Linebacker: Dontay Moch
School: Nevada
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘1
Weight: 245
Jersey #55

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 61
Solo Tackles: 38
Tackles For a Loss: 20
Assists: 23
Sacks: 6.5
INTs: 0
Forced Fumbles: 2

High School: Hamilton
Hometown: Chandler, Arizona
Recruit Rating: Average - Scout (2 Star DE), Rivals (2 Star OLB)

Report: With the ever growing popularity of 3-4 defenses in the NFL, smaller (sub 260 pounds) speedy college edge rushers are now becoming more popular than ever. There is a big need for 3-4 OLBs who can rush the passer, and many teams are now switching smaller college defensive ends into stand up players in the pros.

One of the top candidates to make that transition in this year’s class is Nevada’s Dontay Moch.

There is no doubting Moch’s speed and athleticism. He’s recently been timed in the 4.4-4.5 range in the forty yard dash at Nevada’s summer workouts. Being able to do that at almost 250 pounds might sound a little bit hard to believe but all you have to do is watch Moch on film to understand that it is most definitely possible.

As seen in this highlight from last year’s game against Missouri (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gtsE4RxIt4), when Dontay gets going up the field, he can be almost impossible to stop.

Highlights such as that should keep the mouths of NFL teams employing a 3-4 salivating all season long.

39. Quarterback - Jerrod Johnson
School: Texas A&M
Class: Senior
Height: 6‘5
Weight: 245
Jersey #1

2009 Statistics
CMP/ATT: 296/497 (59 %)
Yards: 3,579
Passing TDs: 30
Interceptions: 8
Sacked: 27
Rating: 136

High School: Humble
Hometown: Humble, Texas
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#10 TE), Rivals (#31 ATH)

Report: There are some that have started to stick Jerrod Johnson with the “Vince Young Light” tag, but that label short changes him a bit. Yes, Johnson does have an uncanny resemblance to the former Texas star, but make no mistake about it, Jerrod is his own player.

He’s far more developed as a passer than Young was going into his junior season. And while it’s fair to call him a dual threat, if you watch Johnson enough, you’ll see that his arm is a much bigger part of his game than his legs.

Now does that mean he is the most polished passer? No, he rainbows and floats a lot of deep passes, and he doesn’t have the zip on his throws to fit the ball into tight spaces, which is a requirement in today’s NFL.

What Johnson does have though is potential, and loads of it.

He’ll take at least a year or two of seasoning once he gets into the league. But Jerrod is the type of quarterback that if groomed right, could really turn into a diamond in the rough kind of find.

40. Inside Linebacker - Dont’a Hightower
School: Alabama
Class: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 6‘4
Weight: 260
Jersey #30

2009 Statistics
Total Tackles: 16
Solo Tackles: 5
Tackles For a Loss: 4
Assists: 11
Sacks: 1
INTs: 0
Forced Fumbles: 0

High School: Marshall County
Hometown: Lewisburg, Tennessee
Recruit Rating: Standout - Scout (#27 DE), Rivals (#15 ILB)

Report: Entering the 2009 season, it looked like as if the Alabama Crimson Tide had the best 1-2 linebacker punch in all of college football. The Tide not only had Rolando McClain, one of the best NFL prospects in the country, they also had a young sophomore named Dont’a Hightower, who was coming into the year fresh off a Freshman All America campaign in 2008.

In just his first year of college football, Hightower exploded onto the scene with 64 tackles and he ended up being a critical part of the team’s rise back to the top of the SEC.

Even bigger things were expected of Dont’a in his sophomore season but it was not to be. The linebacker tore his knee up during the first quarter of an early season game against Arkansas. He would end up redshirting and missing the rest of the season while rehabbing.

Now Hightower returns healthy and ready to regain his form as a dominating middle linebacker. He’s the type of versatile guy that can move around and do a lot of different things and line up in a lot of different places defensively. He’s a player that a team like the New England Patriots would really covet.