NFL Combine 2011: Power Ranking the Top 100 Prospects in Indy
The 2011 NFL Scouting Combine is upon us and over 300 players have landed in Indianapolis for the biggest “job interview” of their young careers.
Just a few years ago, many of these prospects were being courted by top collegiate programs, and now the roles are reversed.
Every player will be under the microscope and their limits will be pushed both physically and mentally in various workouts, interviews and tests.
Anyone who is anyone in the NFL will be on hand and players can make or break their draft stock in Indianapolis better than anywhere else during the draft process.
Things will certainly change following the NFL Scouting Combine, but here is a look at the top 100 players in Indianapolis this year.
Slides will also include the players' NFL Scouting Combine ID numbers.
100. Curtis Brown, CB, Texas
1 of 100
The Texas Longhorn has ideal size and speed for the position, he has good athleticism and quickness and he is a solid contributor on special teams.
He is a very instinctive player and a willing tackler.
Brown was not overly productive, but spent a good amount of time against top-level competition.
He is a solid all-around prospect who could contribute and possibly start; he will wear ID number: DB6.
99. Quan Sturdivant, ILB, UNC
2 of 100
The Tar Heel is a smaller linebacking prospect who was all over the field and has above-average athleticism overall.
He has good instincts, gets to the ball quickly and can make plays in coverage.
He will likely have to add some bulk but must maintain his speed.
Sturdivant will wear ID number: LB27.
98. Jabaal Sheard, DE, Pittsburgh
3 of 100
Sheard was a productive defensive end prospect who stepped up big in the absence of Greg Romeus.
He is a bit undersized and could have to move to outside linebacker in the 3-4 to make an impact at the next level.
He has some off-the-field character concerns that will have to be addressed.
Sheard will wear ID number: DL46.
.png?w=256)
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
97. Kenrick Ellis, DT, Hampton
4 of 100
The Hampton defensive tackle is a massive small-school product with a ton of upside if he can overcome character concerns that doomed him at South Carolina.
He has good explosion off the snap and will fight until the end of the play.
Ellis’ draft status will depend on how he handles the interview process; he will wear ID number: DL17.
96. Orlando Franklin, OG, Miami
5 of 100
Big, athletic offensive line prospect with good fight, quickness and mobility.
Franklin is very good in the run game, displays good awareness and could potentially play tackle if needed.
The Hurricane will wear ID number: OL14.
95. Ahmad Black, S, Florida
6 of 100
Good athletic, playmaking safety who makes up for lack of size with aggressive style of play.
Very instinctive and aware, but Black can gamble at times and find himself out of position.
Will contribute on special teams but will not rest until he finds himself in the starting lineup.
Black will wear ID number: DB3.
94. Christian Ponder, QB, FSU
7 of 100
The Florida State senior quarterback is an interesting prospect.
He had a very underwhelming season in 2010 but bounced back nicely in the Senior Bowl after battling an injury.
He has put himself back in the consideration for a Day 2 or Day 3 draft position.
Has a lot of good qualities, including touch, accuracy and athleticism, but he has some things to work on, too.
Ponder is not a finished product but he could be an effective starter if coached correctly.
He will wear ID number: QB12.
93. Kendric Burney, CB, UNC
8 of 100
Good cover corner prospect with great short-area burst and closing speed.
Burney is undersized at 5’9”, 182 pounds but he has the speed to stick with most receivers and has above-average athleticism.
Size could be an issue, but he has gotten away with it so far.
Burney will wear ID number: DB8.
92. Jerrell Powe, DT, Mississippi
9 of 100
Big defensive tackle with fantastic natural strength.
He fights hard inside and excels against the run.
Powe does not possess the pass-rush skills necessary to make plays in the backfield and could suffer from conditioning issues.
He's a bit of boom-or-bust type prospect and will wear ID number: DL41.
91. Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
10 of 100
SEC defensive end prospect who is still realizing his full talent.
He has average size with good athleticism, speed and burst off the edge, but he lacks the production in sacks you’d like to see.
Should continue to get better and could be a solid player if coached and placed in a good position.
McPhee will wear ID number: DL33.
90. James Carpenter, OG, Alabama
11 of 100
Average-sized tackle prospect from Alabama that who will likely kick inside at the NFL level.
He has good athleticism and feet for his frame but is not as aware or instinctive as you’d like for a tackle.
The senior has talent and could be a starter in the right scheme.
Carpenter will wear ID number: OL9.
89. Jason Pinkston, OT, Pittsburgh
12 of 100
Pinkston is a solid offensive tackle prospect who anchored the blind side for the Panthers the last couple of seasons.
He has good athleticism but lacks the necessary agility to handle speed off the edge and may have to move to the right or kick inside.
Pinkston will wear ID number: OL38.
88. D.J. Williams, TE, Arkansas
13 of 100
Smaller, H-back style pass catcher who made a lot of plays and saw a lot of balls from a quarterback who trusted him.
He's a good athlete with the ability to stretch the seam.
His smaller frame limits him as a blocker and would be best utilized in motion or out of the backfield.
Williams will wear ID number: TE16.
87. Jordan Todman, RB, Connencticut
14 of 100
Very productive running back prospect with limited physical abilities that he overcame at the collegiate level.
Has good speed but smaller frame could harm him at that next level and is more effective outside the tackles than inside.
Todman’s not as accomplished in the passing game as you’d like for a smaller back and will need to show he can be a contributor there; will wear ID number: RB36.
86. Cecil Shorts III, WR, Mount Union
15 of 100
A small-school wide receiver prospect who continues to get more publicity, Cecil Shorts was a super-productive wideout for Mount Union and profiles as a solid slot weapon in the NFL.
Will be interesting to see his official size and weight and timed speed.
Shorts will wear ID number: WO37.
85. Shane Vereen, RB, California
16 of 100
California’s Shane Vereen is an underrated running back prospect who could surprise some at the next level.
He has good speed, natural ability as a runner and can contribute out of the backfield.
Will not be an every-down back in the NFL, but could be a solid contributor.
Vereen will wear ID number: RB37.
84. Luke Stocker, TE, Tennessee
17 of 100
Big, all-around tight end prospect who has surprised some with his playmaking ability in the passing game.
He will not blow anybody away with physical tools but will be a solid, consistent contributor.
Stocker will wear ID number: TE14.
83. Johnny Patrick, CB, Louisville
18 of 100
Speedy, physical cornerback prospect who gained some good credibility this season.
Very solid cover corner who can blanket a receiver.
Is still developing as a technician, but NFL coaches can help him.
Patrick will wear ID number: DB36.
82. Robert Sands, S, West Virginia
19 of 100
Huge safety prospect with rare size/speed combination and knack for making plays.
Fiery prospect with potential to develop into a solid player at a size that does not normally excel at the position.
Sands will wear ID number: DB41.
81. Brandon Burton, CB, Utah
20 of 100
Solid-sized cornerback prospect with great leaping ability, good speed and tackling ability.
Not as well known as some other prospects, but could be more of a player than some drafted ahead of him; demonstrates a good physical presence on the field.
Burton will wear ID number: DB9.
80. Casey Matthews, ILB, Oregon
21 of 100
Undersized brother of Super Bowl Champion Clay Matthews, Casey is a relentless and fiery player in his own right with a tough-nosed attitude and good instincts for the position.
Could be overwhelmed by bigger blockers, but has done a nice job in pass rush and would hardly shock anyone if he outplays will natural abilities.
Matthews will wear ID number: LB17.
79. Mason Foster, OLB, Washington
22 of 100
Physical, relentless linebacker prospect with solid athleticism, speed and versatility.
He is shorter than the average linebacker and will struggle with bigger blockers, but can do a lot of good things.
Will likely be an earlier contributor than some others drafted ahead of him.
Foster will wear ID number: LB5.
78. William Rackley, OG, Lehigh
23 of 100
The Lehigh offensive guard may not be well known, but he’s about as solid an interior lineman prospect as there is in the Draft.
At 6’3”, 305 pounds, he has all the tools you look for in a guard, can be counted on to do what he is told and has the potential to start for a lot of years in the league.
Rackley will wear ID number: OL40.
77. Jerrel Jernigan, WR, Troy
24 of 100
Small, playmaking receiver with top-notch speed and athleticism.
Very dangerous with the football in his hands and possesses the vision, agility and body control to score from anywhere on the field.
Lack of size could limit ability against bigger, physical corners but could be very effective if put in the right position.
Will wear ID number: WO18.
76. Andy Dalton, QB, TCU
25 of 100
Andy Dalton is a rising quarterback prospect who has elevated his Draft stock tremendously.
He has playmaking ability, a strong command of his skills and solid accuracy.
Still has work ahead of him but has proven capable of being a potential starter at the next level.
Dalton will wear ID number: QB2.
75. Lance Kendricks, TE, Wisconsin
26 of 100
Catch-first tight end with playmaking ability, athleticism and good overall speed.
He lacks the necessary size to be a true inline blocker and could be an H-back at the next level.
Poses mismatch for linebackers in the right offense and could be an early contributor.
Kendricks will wear ID number: TE8.
74. Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia
27 of 100
A talented cornerback prospect ranked much higher in preseason, but dealt with injury concerns for much of the year.
Has elite size for the position, good ball skills and top-end speed, and is a solid run supporter.
Dowling will wear ID number: DB17.
73. Greg Romeus, DE, Pittsburgh
28 of 100
One of the top talents coming into the season and former co-Big East Defensive Player of the Year, Romeus is coming off a bad injury and questions about his motor and work ethic.
Possesses all the physical tools you look for in a disruptive pass rusher off the edge, but needs to show a return to form.
Romeus will wear ID number: DL45.
72. Dontay Moch, OLB, Nevada
29 of 100
Physical freak who will likely blow up Combine workout.
Reportedly runs in 4.2 range in the 40-yard dash and is a remarkable athlete.
Lacks size to play on the line at the next level and will have to show improvements in coverage to succeed as a linebacker.
He will wear ID number: DL35.
71. Greg Jones, ILB, Michigan State
30 of 100
Tackling machine as a Spartan linebacker, Jones is undersized at 6’0”, 240 pounds and lacks the athleticism necessary to dominate in the NFL.
Strong work ethic with drive to succeed; I will not count him out, but it will be tough for him due to size.
He will wear ID number: LB12.
70. Martez Wilson, OLB, Illinois
31 of 100
One of the top prospects in the game coming out of high school, Wilson put together a solid career at Illinois and is looking to continue that into the NFL.
He has prototype height, very good speed for the position and has shown the ability to rush the passer.
Not a polished player in coverage and needs to show improvement if he wants to be an every-down linebacker.
Wilson will wear ID number: LB31.
69. Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
32 of 100
The Wildcat is a good natural athlete with agility, quickness and power and is relentless on the rush.
Has versatility enough to play multiple positions and may be an effective 3-4 rush linebacker at 6’2”, 255 pounds.
Could stand to improve as run defender and has not displayed a ton of ability in coverage.
Reed will wear ID number: DL43.
68. Terrell McClain, DT, South Florida
33 of 100
Average height with good size, McClain was an effective defensive tackle who could make his way to the quarterback as well playing the run with solid athleticism and a good motor.
Is raw and can improve in almost every facet of the game, but could be a solid player with the right coaching.
McClain will wear ID number: DL32.
67. Tandon Doss, WR, Indiana
34 of 100
The Indiana wide receiver has good size and top-end speed to go with good ball skills and effective route running.
A lesser-known prospect who could benefit from a good showing at the Combine.
Will have to show teams he can be a threat stretching the field.
Doss will wear ID number: WO9.
66. Kendall Hunter, RB, Oklahoma State
35 of 100
A dynamic, playmaking running back who can make plays both in and out of the backfield.
Hunter is small at 5’7¼”, 199 pounds, but is he is solid, slippery and fast enough to leave defenders in his wake.
Will not be an every-down back but could certainly make a contribution early and often for an NFL squad.
Hunter will wear ID number: RB18.
65. Marvin Austin, DT, UNC
36 of 100
He screwed up what could have been a seriously high Draft selection, but I am not going to get into that.
Teams will thoroughly go through all his character issues and decide whether he is worth the risk of a Draft pick, but his ability on the field is hard to deny.
He could be a seriously disruptive force at any level, and we’ll see how he looks in Indianapolis.
Austin will wear ID number: DL4.
64. Davon House, CB, New Mexico State
37 of 100
A small-school prospect with big-game potential.
House is a physical cornerback at 6’0”, 190 pounds, is a willing tackler and has good ball skills.
May not be the perfect man cover, but could excel in zone schemes where he does not have to turn and run too much.
A few people are big on House, but I’d like to see some numbers along with it now.
House will wear ID number: DB25.
63. DeMarcus Love, OT, Arkansas
38 of 100
Athletic offensive lineman with good size, feet and top-notch instincts.
He is very experienced against elite competition and provides positional versatility all across the line.
He could use polish in his technique, but NFL coaches will correct his issues.
Love will be wearing ID number: OL33.
62. Marcus Cannon, OG, TCU
39 of 100
Cannon is a huge offensive line prospect with versatility to kick inside if he cannot handle life on the edge.
A fiery player who is better in the run game and could land him at guard for his career.
Cannon's 6’5”, 360 pounds is a lot of weight, and he will have to keep himself in check if he wants to stay healthy and succeed.
Cannon will be wearing ID number: OL7.
61. Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
40 of 100
A stout, run-stuffing defensive tackle with great strength and power, Jenkins is an instinctive player with ability to penetrate and make plays in the backfield as well.
He can stand up and get lazy when he is tired, and his stamina can be questioned.
If he puts it all together in the NFL, he could be a real player.
Jenkins will wear ID number: DL24.
60. Stefen Wisniewski, OC, Penn State
41 of 100
A solid, all-around center who consistently does his job.
Wisniewski has good size at 6’3”, 295 pounds, fantastic knowledge of the game and is an extremely tough player.
Has physical limitations as an athlete and will not dominate anyone in front of him.
Likely to find a home in the second round and will simply do what is asked of him.
Wisniewski will wear ID number: OL54.
59. DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
42 of 100
A playmaking safety who is very good inside the box.
McDaniel can blitz, play the run and deliver a shot over the middle.
He does not have great coverage ability, though, and lacks desirable speed. He’s not consistent and can hurt himself with reckless play.
McDaniel has talent but needs a team to put him in the correct position.
He will wear ID number: DB33.
58. Jeremy Beal, DE/OLB, Oklahoma
43 of 100
An extremely intriguing prospect who can play a multitude of positions but not have a true home anywhere.
At 6’2½”, 265 pounds, Beal has good athleticism, explosion and burst, plays with good instincts and has a relentless motor.
He does not have the tools you look for as a true defensive end, may not be able to drop in coverage successfully and will need a team that can define his position early and work with him.
Beal will wear ID number: DL8.
57. Quinton Carter, S, Oklahoma
44 of 100
The Sooner safety is a natural athlete who is at his best when allowed to react to plays in front of him.
Very smart football player willing to contribute in any facet of the game.
Is not suited to handle receivers one-on-one but will likely be drafted by a team knowing his best comes out in zone schemes.
Average size and speed and could hurt himself at the Combine if he posts a bad 40-yard dash time.
He will wear ID number: DB12.
56. Clint Boling, OG, Georgia
45 of 100
Clint Boling is an aggressive, powerful and skilled technician who actually has pretty solid athleticism to boot.
He can play multiple positions, has good size at 6’5”, 310-pounds and has a ton of experience.
He may not be a starter right away, but he’s a worker who will not stop until he gets a chance to step on the field every Sunday.
Boling will be wearing ID number: OL4.
55. DeMarco Murray, RB, Oklahoma
46 of 100
An intriguing running back prospect who may never make it in the backfield.
Murray is 6’1”, 217 pounds but runs with a very narrow base and struggles to bring his pad level down.
He is, however, extremely explosive, has a nose for the end zone and excels as a receiver.
He can line up in the slot or swing out of the backfield and consistently make plays on the edge.
Murray may not be an every-down running back, but he will be a contributor in the NFL.
He will wear ID number: RB26.
54. Bruce Carter, OLB, UNC
47 of 100
A complete outside linebacker who did everything he could to hold together a defensive unit that could have been excellent in 2010 if not numerous violations.
Incredible special teams contributor, can drop in coverage, has good top-end speed and is simply a reliable football player.
Carter might be a bit undersized for the next level, but he will be a contributor somewhere.
He will be wearing ID number: LB3 but is unlikely to work out after having reconstructive knee surgery in December.
53. Daniel Thomas, RB, Kansas State
48 of 100
Former JUCO college quarterback has the potential to be a solid running back in the NFL.
Has excellent size at 6’2”, 228 pounds, but lacks the speed to break away from anyone.
Thomas is very effective between the tackles, has great patience and shows great vision as well and could be an every-down running back on Sundays.
Thomas will wear ID number: RB35.
52. Kelvin Sheppard, OLB, LSU
49 of 100
The LSU Tiger is not the most athletic of players, but he has an excellent understanding of the game, plays with a relentless motor and puts it all out on the field.
His lack of athleticism might limit him to only two downs at the next level, but he could be a starting-caliber linebacker.
Sheppard will be wearing ID number: LB24.
51. Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
50 of 100
The “U” product came out in the Senior Bowl and made himself some serious extra cash with his play during the week.
He can make plays all over the field, has big hands and has a physical style of play.
Average speed and burst, but he covers it up with route-running ability.
Hankerson will wear ID number: WO14.
50. Rodney Hudson, OG/OC, Florida State
51 of 100
The Seminole interior lineman is an experienced leader with great athletic ability, feet and knowledge of the game.
He has solid technique, can play effectively at any position on the interior line and consistently works hard.
Is not flashy but has the talent to succeed for a long time on the offensive line; will wear ID number: OL21.
49. Jurrell Casey, DT, USC
52 of 100
Jurrell Casey is a short, stout defensive tackle prospect with a considerable amount of upside.
He has good feet and an impressive motor for a man his size.
Will not dominate as a pass rusher but can be an effective disruptor from time to time. He is still refining his moves on the line but could be a solid value for a team somewhere in the second round.
Casey will be wearing ID number: DL11.
48. Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
53 of 100
At 6’0”, 202 pounds, the Terrapin wide receiver has the size and speed teams look for in a playmaking receiving threat.
He’s not too tall, but his blazing speed and leaping ability can torture opposing defensive backs down the field.
He can turn any play into a big play, but he still needs a lot of work refining his game if he truly wants to be more than just an athlete on the field.
Smith will be wearing ID number: WO39.
47. Christian Ballard, DT, Iowa
54 of 100
The Hawkeye is an impressive athlete for a man his size, is continuing his ascent up Draft boards and can play multiple positions.
At 6’5”, 288 pounds, Ballard has everything you look for in a playmaking defensive tackle.
He has a considerable amount of upside and just needs the right coaching to help him fulfill his potential.
Opinions on him vary, but I like him more than a few of the other defensive tackles who have been placed in front of him by others.
Ballard will wear ID number: DL7.
46. Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh
55 of 100
Big time, playmaking athlete with potential to “wow” teams at the combine.
At 6’5”, 225 pounds, Baldwin’s lack of production this season is concerning, but his potential at the next level will be too much to overlook.
He has the ability to get deep, is a mismatch for any cornerback and is a huge red-zone threat.
Rumors say he can run sub-4.4 in the 40-yard dash; will wear ID number: WO2.
45. Drake Nevis, DT, LSU
56 of 100
Small, compact, and quick, Nevis was an extremely disruptive force on the defensive line this season.
He has great agility, strength and leverage inside.
He is, however, very small and will be hard-pressed to fit into systems that do not emphasize his strengths.
Nevis will be best as a one-gap penetrator; he will wear ID number: DL37.
44. Titus Young, WR, Boise State
57 of 100
The Boise State Bronco has already been compared to the speedy DeSean Jackson and is getting serious looks for his playmaking ability.
At 5’11”, 175 pounds, he is thin but has great explosion off the line, gets to top speed very quickly and is extremely quick and agile.
Possesses great ball skills, has return ability and could work effectively in the slot in the NFL.
Young will wear ID number: WO46.
43. Mikell LeShoure, RB, Illinois
58 of 100
The 6’0”, 227-pound running back prospect had quite a season in 2010 and really made a name for himself as a potential second-round running back.
He’s got good size for the position, has enough speed to make plays, and his lateral quickness makes him a tough target to hit in the hole.
Not a dazzling player but a guy who can get the job done; will be wearing ID number: RB22.
42. Randall Cobb, WR, Kentucky
59 of 100
The Kentucky Wildcat was a do-it-all player at the collegiate level, and his playmaking skills will make some NFL team very happy.
He’s got decent size at 5’11”, 192 pounds and while he isn’t an overall speedster, his instincts, toughness and versatility could help him thrive.
Cobb is a savvy route runner that who make plays when it matters most.
He will wear ID number: WO7.
41. Benjamin Ijalana, OT, Villanova
60 of 100
A small-school prospect with a big-league game, Ben Ijalana is a name that has already hit many big boards and is a name to remember.
At 6’3½”, 315-pounds; Ijalana has great athleticism, power and strength up front and has the talent to be a legit starter.
He still needs work with his technique and may not be a tackle at the next level, but he will be a player nonetheless.
Ijalana will wear ID number: OL25.
40. Allen Bailey, DE, Miami
61 of 100
Uber-athletic prospect who will likely test through the roof.
Bailey is 6’3¼”, 280 pounds and brings added versatility with experience both inside and out.
Still very raw with everything he does, but has a ton of potential on the table. He wants to be a player, wants to succeed and will be a good addition to any team.
His Combine numbers will likely draw rave reviews; he will wear ID number: DL5.
39. Ryan Williams, RB, Virginia Tech
62 of 100
The Hokie running back had a down season in Blacksburg this year but has a ton of upside and the potential to be a player in the NFL.
At 5’10”, 211 pounds, he has good size, vision, patience and burst inside accompanied with a great balance and a low center of gravity.
He does not have elite breakaway speed, but he is fast and elusive enough to leave people behind him.
Williams is a heavily debated prospect that could go anywhere from late first round to late second round; he will be wearing ID number: RB39.
38. Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor
63 of 100
The 27-year-old rookie offensive lineman has flown up Draft boards in recent weeks.
At 6’3½”, 315-pounds, Watkins is one of the more intriguing prospects in the class.
He has great athleticism and quickness, is a naturally gifted player and is still learning the game.
He may physically be at the max of his size, but he has his best football still ahead of him.
Watkins could sneak into the bottom of the first round and will wear ID number: OL51.
37. Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
64 of 100
An incredibly strong, stout, run-stuffing defensive tackle that could be a first round pick if he can overcome the recent injury at the Senior Bowl.
At 6’1”, 315 pounds, Paea possesses good athleticism, has an excellent bull rush and plays with a great motor.
He is not technically sound yet, but is willing to learn and will be a great addition to whichever team drafts him.
He will be wearing ID number: DL39 and if he is to work out, he could set the bench press record.
36. Rahim Moore, S, UCLA
65 of 100
The top safety prospect in the Draft class really came into his own this season.
Moore has good size at 6’1”, 197 pounds, with great athleticism, speed, ball skills and incredible instincts.
He is a complete safety prospect who is at his best in the middle of the field.
Really hard-working player who wants to succeed and should do so in the NFL.
Could sneak into the first round due to the lack of depth at the safety position, and the more I see him, the more I like him.
Moore will wear ID number: DB35.
35. Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
66 of 100
The Baylor defensive tackle is a big, athletic prospect who moves surprisingly well for a man his size.
At 6’3”, 335 pounds; Taylor is the best available nose tackle prospect in the Draft.
He has impressive quickness and agility inside, can clog up holes and has very violent hands.
Weight may be an issue of concern, considering there is no collective bargaining agreement, but if he can effectively handle himself then he could be a player early.
He will wear ID number: DL50.
34. Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame
67 of 100
An impressive athlete with great size, Rudolph is a catch-first tight end but has enough ability to succeed inline if he keeps working at it.
At 6’6”, 265 pounds; he is a big-play threat down the seam, has fantastic hands and has top-notch speed for the position.
He should get stronger with an NFL weight room, but will still be effective enough to make an impact immediately as a complete tight end.
He will wear ID number: TE12.
33. Muhammad Wilkerson, DT, Temple
68 of 100
Lesser-known defensive line prospect with big-time disruptive ability.
Wilkerson has impressive ability at 6’5”, 305 pounds and possesses versatility enough to play in almost any scheme.
He is a powerful pass rushing threat that will likely be a five technique in the NFL and could find his way into the first round with the right team.
Wilkerson will wear ID number: DL55.
32. Aaron Williams, CB, Texas
69 of 100
The Texas cornerback prospect has fantastic size for the position at 6’1”, 205 pounds and comes from a great program and secondary.
Williams has good top-end speed, is a willing tackler, can make plays on the football and is an excellent special teams contributor.
A cornerback prospect with room to develop and can still get better overall.
He will wear ID number: DB53.
31. Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
70 of 100
The Illinois product is a rising defensive tackle prospect who has everything going for him right now.
Liuget uses a combination of good instincts, quick hands and feet and a powerful drive to be a relentless and disruptive force in opposing backfields.
He has good size, strength and burst to succeed at the next level and is battling for one of the top defensive tackle spots behind the two elite prospects.
Liuget will be wearing ID number: DL29.
30. Justin Houston, DE/OLB, Georgia
71 of 100
The Bulldog sack artist was an extremely disruptive pass rusher this season and lived in opposing backfields.
He has good burst off the edge, does a good job mixing up power and speed and has solid instincts.
Still has a lot to look forward to and will likely be drafted on potential.
At 6’3”, 255 pounds, he will have to find a permanent position and while he spent a lot of time with his hand down at Georgia, he will likely have to stand up more in the NFL.
Houston will wear ID number: LB9.
29. Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State
72 of 100
The Mississippi State tackle can do everything you want but is simply solid, not great.
He has ideal size and frame, is an average to above-average athlete with good technique, instincts and awareness and has a ton of experience against top-notch competition.
Sherrod will not dominate but is one of the safer tackle prospects available; will wear ID number: OL44.
28. Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
73 of 100
The big-school product was a solid producer as a Buckeye and should be a player in the NFL.
Has enough versatility to play inside or out in a 4-3 and five technique in a 3-4.
Heyward can dominate at times but is not as consistent as you would like all the time.
He has top-notch intangibles and solid NFL bloodlines but lacks elite pass rush moves, speed and burst.
Could be drafted anywhere from the 20s down into the second round.
Heyward will wear ID number: DL23.
27. Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
74 of 100
The strong-armed, tower-like signal caller is one of the more intriguing prospects in the Draft.
At 6’7”, 240 pounds, he can make all the necessary throws, has an ideal release and has experience in a pro-style offense.
He has good accuracy with room for improvement and has shown the ability to spin a good ball in tight places.
Still a work in progress, though, and has been known to force the ball.
Mallett could be selected as high as the top 15 or could even possibly slide out of the first round; heavy quarterback needs lead me to believe he’ll be called on day one.
He will wear ID number: QB9.
26. Mike Pouncey, OG/OC, Florida
75 of 100
A highly productive and instinctive interior lineman, Pouncey has all the tools necessary to succeed in the NFL.
He has prototype size, athletic feet and is an extremely hard worker.
Pouncey is highly aware of his surroundings, possesses elite NFL bloodlines and can play multiple positions on the inside.
Will need some technical work but should be an effective starter early.
He will be wearing ID number: OL39.
25. Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
76 of 100
Jimmy Smith has elite size for the cornerback position and continues to move up Draft boards.
He has solid skills around the football, is a willing tackler, but excels as a cover man.
His size and speed are rare and could drive him further up Draft boards if teams stay hot on him.
He is one of the corners fighting behind the top two and actually could be selected as high as the top 15.
Smith will be wearing ID number: DB47.
24. Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
77 of 100
This massive 6’8”, 315-pound offensive tackle has incredible upside.
Solder carries his weight very well for a player so tall and actually looks lean.
He is a great athlete at his size, has good feet and hands and is a very aware football player.
Already has good strength but could benefit by adding some bulk to his frame.
Solder is very high on some boards but not as loved by others. I am somewhere in the middle on him, but I do expect him to be a first-round pick.
Solder will wear ID number: OL47.
23. Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
78 of 100
The Purdue Boilermaker is simply a football player.
He was extremely productive this season and is a relentless pass rusher despite average size.
He is not overly athletic and may not blow away anyone with his numbers in Indianapolis, but his game on the field speaks for itself.
He has top-notch intangibles but will have to find a permanent position in the NFL; he shouldn’t last too long in the Draft.
Kerrigan will be wearing ID number: DL26.
22. Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
79 of 100
Carimi can play all over the offensive line and was a highly productive talent out of a solid program.
At 6’7”, 315 pounds, Carimi is limited athletically but makes up for it elsewhere.
He plays with a nasty streak, is a tough-nosed blocker and is technically sound.
May not be an elite tackle on the blind side but will be consistent wherever he plays.
Carimi will wear ID number: OL8.
21. Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
80 of 100
The “U” product has it all: coverage ability, speed, ball skills, agility and instincts.
At 5’11”, 195 pounds, Harris has prototype size, is a willing tackler and can effectively play bump-'n'-run as well as off-coverage.
He is one of several cornerbacks vying for the top spot in the second tier of the position but wins out due to consistency.
Could be drafted in the teens, but could also drop to the latter portion of the first round, depending on how teams slate their cornerback board.
He will wear ID number: DB21.
20. Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
81 of 100
This defensive-line prospect possesses a ton of toughness, is athletic for his size and has a relentless motor.
Clayborn is not an elite pass rusher, but is the type of player who can do almost everything well and will always give it his all.
He is 6’3”, 282 pounds, can kick inside and shows a nasty streak that fits his style of play.
He’s been on the radar for a while and may not possess the upside of some of his peers in the class yet he will be a solid player in the NFL.
Clayborn will wear ID number: DL13.
19. Jake Locker, QB, Washington
82 of 100
The senior Husky is one of the most intriguing prospects in the Draft.
Locker has the arm, size and intangibles to succeed at the next level, has fantastic athleticism, but has a ton of questions about his accuracy.
He will reportedly run in the 4.5-second range in the 40-yard dash, but teams will be more concerned with what he does with his arm.
Locker has a career completion percentage under 60 percent and needs to prove to NFL teams that he can control his arm.
He is a fearless player who will do everything in his power to win, but teams will be wary until he proves the accuracy issues can be overcome.
Locker will wear ID number: QB8.
18. Tyron Smith, OT, USC
83 of 100
The Trojan underclassman only played on the right side in college but arguably has the most potential to develop into an elite tackle in the class.
Smith is 6’5”, 290 pounds and is still very raw.
He needs to get stronger, but he has fantastic athleticism for the position and can be a very good run blocker as well.
Relies on his athletic ability and will benefit immensely from NFL coaching and reps to help develop more awareness for the game around him.
Smith could be the first tackle off the board or could last into the 20s.
He will wear ID number: OL45.
17. Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
84 of 100
The underclassman quarterback has everything you look for in a franchise signal caller, in addition to above-average athleticism, and is considered the most complete quarterback in the Draft.
At 6’5”, 240 pounds, Gabbert can make all throws, is accurate with the football and can make plays with his feet.
He will have to prove he is more than just a guy out of the spread attack who threw the football almost 500 times this season but is high on a lot of boards.
Time is against him in my opinion, though, and with just over two months to go until the Draft, Cam Newton and Gabbert will go in opposite directions on the Draft board.
Gabbert will likely be overdrafted due to a plethora of quarterback-needy teams, but I think we will start to see more people doubt his initially high grade throughout the Draft process.
He will be ID number: QB5.
16. Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, Missouri
85 of 100
Tall, rangy athlete with incredible upside depending on the scheme he plays in at the next level.
Smith is 6’5”, 260 pounds, has good speed with quick hands and feet.
Not all that physical and actually has the look of a finesse player but is still very raw and could develop in an elite edge rusher.
His long frame and arms, accompanied with his athleticism, could make him a very difficult player to get a hold of.
He will be wearing ID number: DL48.
15. J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
86 of 100
The Wisconsin Badger underclassman is a talented athlete with big-play ability for his size.
Watt is 6’5”, 280 pounds with a relentless motor off the edge.
What he lacks in strength and top-end speed he makes up for with hustle and instinct.
He is still coming into his own, and he burst onto the scene this season by disrupting plays in the backfield and in passing lanes with very active hands.
He has the potential to be drafted in the top 10, although I am not ready to put him up there yet.
He will wear ID number: DL52.
14. Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
87 of 100
Castonzo is a former tight end prospect who has filled out nicely into his offensive lineman position and still has room to bulk up at 6’6”, 295 pounds.
As expected with a Boston College prospect, he is a technically sound, hard worker and also has good quickness and athleticism for the position.
I am a bit higher than most on him, and some doubt his ability to handle speed off the edge, but I think he is the safest of the offensive tackles available whether he plays right or left.
He will be wearing ID number: OL10.
13. Cameron Jordan, DE, California
88 of 100
A big defensive line prospect who effectively used the Senior Bowl to elevate his stock, Jordan has actually leveled out some since those practices.
He has fantastic athleticism at 6’4½”, 287 pounds, and possesses good instincts, a good motor and versatility enough to play multiple positions.
He can still develop as a pass rusher off the edge and will have to use more moves to be successful in the NFL.
Not too much flash but a ton of substance; Jordan will be wearing ID number: DL25.
12. Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
89 of 100
The junior prospect is a complete running back who can simply do everything well.
Ingram, a former Heisman Trophy winner, will not blow people away with his speed, but has the ability to excel in the NFL.
His leg drive, patience and vision in the hole are elite, and he is an effective blocker and receiver when he is not carrying the rock.
At 5’10”, 215 pounds, Ingram has size and bulk enough to be a legitimate every-down back.
He is the only elite running back prospect in my mind and could be the only back taken in the first round.
He will be wearing ID number: RB20.
11. Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA
90 of 100
The Bruin linebacker has impressive overall ability for the position and can do everything well.
He has ability in coverage, can get after the passer, can break down in space and is a natural playmaker.
At 6’3¾”, 250 pounds, Ayers has the speed and strength to take on blockers, as well as the ability to chase down ball carriers.
I am a bit higher on him than most, but I feel his overall ability and versatility will be really tough to pass on.
Ayers will be wearing ID number: LB1.
10. Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
91 of 100
A physical beast out wide, Julio Jones is a prospect many teams would like to have as a weapon.
At 6’4”, 211 pounds, Jones has the size, strength, speed and raw talent to excel in the NFL.
He has consistently improved as player every season at Alabama, has developed into a better route runner and can still get even better altogether.
He is one of only two elite receivers in this class and will be an early contributor wherever he goes.
Jones will wear ID number: WO20.
9. Robert Quinn, DE, UNC
92 of 100
The Tar Heel missed the entire 2010 season due to violations, but he put enough excellent tape out for teams to still be really high on him.
Quinn is a terror off the edge at 6’4½”, 255 pounds, and uses his speed and burst to make life miserable for quarterbacks.
A lot of what he has going for him is based on potential, though, but it certainly helps that his college coaching staff has vouched for him in the wake of missing the season.
He is still raw and developing as a complete pass rusher and will likely fit as a 3-4 rush end; he will be wearing ID number: DL42.
8. Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
93 of 100
One of the top two cornerbacks in the country, Amukamara has a ton of experience against top competition and is one of those prospects who can come in and contribute immediately.
He excels in coverage, is a willing tackler and has above-average ball skills along with great instincts for the position.
He has ideal size at 6’1”, 205 pounds, but his top-end speed has been questioned and his 40-yard dash time will be important for some.
Amukamara has consistently produced, though, and he will be hard to pass up in the top 10 by any team; he will be wearing ID number: DB2.
7. Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
94 of 100
The senior Aggie is the best pure pass rusher in the nation.
He went into the Senior Bowl with intentions of showing scouts that he could play standing up as well rushing the passer, and he succeeded.
Miller is way too light to play on the line, but he is capable enough to fit as a linebacker in any system with an ideal fit in a 3-4.
He brings situational versatility on third down and can wreak havoc in opposing backfields with incredible body control off the edge.
One of the most highly thought-of prospects in the Draft, Miller will be wearing ID number: LB19.
6. Cameron Newton, QB, Auburn
95 of 100
Cam Newton has been one of the most scrutinized prospects in the country but has continually proved his critics wrong; we should not expect the Draft process to be any different.
Newton is one of the most physically gifted players in the country, has the arm to make all the throws and simply does not lose football games.
His athletic ability on the football field is well documented and while it will be nice to put numbers next to it (if he works out), NFL teams will take this opportunity to find out all Newton knows and thinks about the game itself.
Remember, the workouts are only half the battle at the Combine, the interview process is almost just as important.
Newton’s stock will likely continue to rise, and he has the potential to not only be a top three pick, but possibly No. 1 overall.
He will be wearing ID number: QB11.
5. Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
96 of 100
A big, athletic prospect; this junior is the ideal build for a defensive tackle in NFL.
At 6’2 5/8”, 303 pounds, Dareus has elite athleticism for the position, is an incredibly disruptive pass rusher and has versatility enough to play inside or outside.
His lateral quickness is remarkable, and he can effectively chase down quarterbacks going sideline-to-sideline.
Dareus must prove that he can effectively handle his weight and conditioning at the next level, but he has a ton of potential; he will be wearing ID number: DL15.
4. Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
97 of 100
The Tiger defensive end finally put it all together in his junior season leading the nation in sacks and living up to the hype of his No. 1 prospect ranking out of high school.
Now, at 6’4”, 280 pounds, Bowers is one of the top prospects in the country and a legitimate candidate to go No. 1 overall.
He possesses good top-end speed for his size, has versatility to play multiple positions and is still getting better.
His pass-rush moves will be polished by NFL coaching, and he could be a game-changing defensive lineman in the future.
He will be wearing ID number: DL9 but may not work out due to injury.
3. Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
98 of 100
The most disruptive defensive player in the country can change a game in a single play.
Fairley has elite quickness, burst and power inside, plays with a mean streak that can sometimes get him in trouble and is a relentless pass rusher.
The junior lineman possesses an array of pass-rush moves, can split double teams before they even get set and has a knack for making huge plays when it matters most.
His character, work ethic and devotion to the game will be challenged, but his physical traits will win out; potential No. 1 pick.
He will be wearing ID number: DL19.
2. A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
99 of 100
At 6’4”, 208 pounds, junior A.J. Green poses a mismatch for almost every defensive back in the game.
He runs solid routes, has tremendous leaping ability, hands and separation skills and possesses incredible quickness for a tall receiver.
He may not be a complete burner, but he has good speed for a guy his size and uses all his tools as well as any in the game.
Green is the No. 2 prospect on my board, is a can’t-miss prospect and may be the best receiver to enter the NFL since Calvin Johnson in 2007.
He will be wearing ID number: WO11.
1. Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
100 of 100
With a rare combination of size, speed, athleticism and versatility, Peterson is my top prospect going into Indianapolis.
At 6’1”, 215 pounds, he looks like a safety, covers like a corner and can run like a sprinter.
He is physical off the line of scrimmage and is at his best in press-man coverage.
Peterson possesses fantastic ball skills, brings added value as one of the best return men in the country and still has a lot of upside.
The junior said he, “wants to run a 4.2” in the 40-yard dash at the Combine.
If he posts any sub-4.4 time, he will put even more credibility into his high draft stock and is already a can’t-miss prospect in my mind.
He will be wearing ID number: DB37.
.png?w=480)
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
