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Pats Pre-Draft Visits and Workouts

April 21, 2010 By 2 Comments

by Scott Benson, Patriots Daily Staff
April 21, 2010

With the 2010 NFL Draft just hours away, let’s take a final look at the list of college prospects that have had significant contact with the Patriots over the last several weeks.

For these purposes, we define ‘significant contact’ as either a prospect site visit to Foxborough, or a private workout with Pats coaches and scouts. Interviews at post-season all-star games, the Combine, or at college pro days are not tracked. We’ve only included contacts that could be confirmed by media report (links).

There are those that will tell you that any interest on the part of the Pats that is made public is simply a ruse, or a ‘smokescreen’, to mask their interest in another, unnamed player.

As we’ve asserted many times before, that’s just untrue. Last year, Patriots Daily tracked visits by Patrick Chung, Brandon Tate, Tyrone McKenzie and Rich Ohrnberger before they were selected by the Patriots. In 2008, pre-draft contacts with Jerod Mayo, Terrence Wheatley and Shawn Crable were also noted.

Okay, so maybe there are some mixed reviews there, but that’s not the point. When the Pats make their picks later this week, it’s likely that two or three of the selections – if not more – will come from this contact list.

Note – if you see any that we’ve missed, please speak up in the comments section, and include a link to the reported contact.

Team Visits – Offense

QB Tim Tebow, Florida
RB Montario Hardesty, Tennessee
RB Charles Scott, LSU
WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State
WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois
WR Eric Decker, Minnesota
C Maurkice Pouncey, Florida

Private Workouts – Offense

QB Tony Pike, Cincinnati
QB Mike Kafka, Northwestern
QB Zack Robinson, Oklahoma State
QB Rusty Smith, Florida Atlantic
RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech
RB Manase Tonga, BYU
RB Dexter McCluster, Mississippi
RB James Starks, Buffalo
WR Andre Roberts, Citadel
WR Mardy Gilyard, Cincinnati
WR Scott Long, Louisville
WR Taylor Price, Ohio
TE Dennis Pitta, BYU
TE Aaron Hernandez, Florida
TE Nate Bynam, Pittsburgh
TE Scott Sicko, UNH
OT Nic Richmond, TCU
OG Phil Costa, Maryland
C Jim Cordle, Ohio State
OT Daniel Baldridge, Marshall

Team Visits – Defense

DE Brandon Graham, Michigan
DE Corey Wootton, Northwestern
DE Daniel Te’o-Nesheim, Washington
DE Hall Davis, Louisiana-Lafayette
DE Chris McCoy, Middle Tennessee State
DT Dan Williams, Tennessee
DT Tyson Alualu, California
DT Brian Price, UCLA
DT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
OLB Sergio Kindle, Texas
OLB Jerry Hughes, TCU
ILB Jamar Chaney, Mississippi State
LB Donald Butler, Washington
CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State

Private Workouts – Defense

DE Antonio Coleman, Auburn
DE Alex Daniels, Cincinnati
DT Al Woods, LSU
DT Torell Troup, UCF
DT Arthur Jones, Syracuse
DT Corey Peters, Kentucky
DT Aleric Mullins, North Carolina
DT Jeff Owens, Georgia
DT Ricardo Mathews, Cincinnati
LB Brandon Spikes, Florida
LB Jason Worilds, Virginia Tech
LB Ricky Sapp, Clemson
LB Kavell Conner, Clemson
LB Thaddeus Gibson, Ohio State
LB Dekoda Watson, Florida State
LB Matt Mayberry, Indiana
S Earl Thomas, Texas
S Kam Chancellor, Virginia Tech
S Myron Lewis, Vanderbilt
CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
CB Chris Cook, Virginia
CB Dominique Franks, Oklahoma
CB Nolan Carroll, Maryland
CB Robert McClain, Connecticut
CB Brandon Ghee, Wake Forest
CB Sherrick McManis, Northwestern
P Brent Bowden, Virginia Tech
P Zoltan Mesko, Michigan

Even if the Pats don’t select any of the players from this list, the direction of their efforts may tell us something. For example, by our count, the Pats have made ‘significant contact’ with 66 draft prospects. 39 of them, or nearly 60%, are defensive players.

Of the defensive contacts, more than half were defensive linemen (18 contacts). Linebackers represented 28% of all defensive contacts.  20% of contacts were with cornerbacks. Safety was apparently the only defensive position not focused on (just 2 of 39 contacts).

Nearly half of the 27 offensive contacts were either running backs (22%) or receivers (26%). Oddly, only 4 of 27 offensive contacts were with tight ends, a position that is considered a top need for New England. Offensive line contacts were concentrated on late round or priority free agent prospects. The Pats also looked at 5 quarterback hopefuls, including Tim Tebow.

This would seem to indicate the Pats will focus on their front seven and their offensive skill positions in this draft.

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Patriots Daily Mock Draft, Part 2

April 16, 2010 By Leave a Comment

by Patriots Daily Staff

After a productive first two rounds in yesterday’s post, the PD Mock continues with our Saturday picks (Rounds Four through Seven).

FOURTH ROUND

Greg Doyle: Andre Roberts, WR, The Citadel. As Scott indicated yesterday, Roberts is a polished, professional sounding receiver with good triangle numbers and production, albeit at a lower college

Scott Long

level. He can return kicks and is fearless as a receiver. I did see him drop an easy pass in the Senior Bowl, but that could happen to anyone. As an alternative and since I’ll be selecting another receiver later, I’m very partial to UCLA’s CB Alterraun Verner who may not have the greatest speed numbers, but was very productive in college and is a playmaker at cornerback.

Chris Warner: That’s makes three of us for Mr. Roberts. What’s not to like? Good 40 (4.4), very strong shuttle numbers, plus a metric ton of versatility (returner, running back, Wildcat QB), make him an intriguing, low-risk pick here.

Scott Benson: You guys will lose out on Roberts if you wait until the fourth. Remember where you heard that. Anyway, I haven’t read more than a stitch on this year’s late round prospects, so I’m afraid I can’t help much with the picks today. Where I may be of assistance is in highlighting some of the third day players that the Pats have either worked out privately, or hosted for a Foxborough visit over the past several weeks. I’ll slot them per Pro Football Weekly’s most recent draft value chart. Fourth round prospect visits included DE Daniel Te’o-Nesheim and LB Donald Butler; private workouts included DT Arthur Jones, CB Dominique Franks, RB Jonathan Dwyer, WR Scott Long, and QB Mike Kafka. There’s always a chance that one of them will wind up being the pick here.

FIFTH ROUND

Chris: Okay, I’ll go ahead and pair this with a third-rounder for 2009 Derrick Burgess… (Damnit!)

Scott: Maybe the Pats will end up replacing that fifth rounder after all, Chris. If they do, they may be targeting Foxborough visitors like DE Hall Davis or RB’s Monatrio Hardesty and Charles Scott; or perhaps a player they privately worked out like DT Corey Peters. I’ll also note Kam Chancellor here; Greg liked him much higher, but Pro Football Weekly is anticipating a 5th round slot for the big safety.

SIXTH ROUND

Scott Sicko

Greg: Sherrick McManis, CB, Northwestern-McManis is a good zone corner that the Patriots have reportedly shown interest in. He reminds me a bit of Asante Samuel coming out of college and has room to grow.

Chris: I like McManis, but find myself intrigued by running back Deji Karim of Southern Illinois to continue the reconstruction of New England’s backfield. Kevin Faulk signed a one-year deal. Karim is small, strong and quick, and would benefit from Faulk’s tutelage – especially in pass protection. Originally I had him as a seventh-rounder, but an exceptional pro day (4.4 in the 40) bumped him up a round.

Greg: Scott Sicko, TE, UNH. Sicko is a very productive college tight end who played at a lower level but was extremely productive. Known for his outstanding hands, he has improved hisstanding this post-season with great 40 times at his Pro Day. He is a hard-working kid who has the athletic ability to become a good NFL tight end and may just need to bulk up slightly.

Chris: Because I address tight end concerns in Round 7, I’m going with UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter. We like Reggie, and not just because he gave PD our first interview this season. He’s tough, strong (31 reps of 225 at his pro day), and has leadership qualities (elected a captain of the defense at the East-West Shrine Game). An under-the-radar guy who will bolster special teams.

Scott: In this range, the Pats may also be looking at OT Nic Richmond, who they worked out, or RB James Starks and S Kurt Coleman, who both got special attention from New England after their respective pro days.

Chris: Because the Pats have close to a million picks in the seventh, let’s just put them out there in a bunch. You first, Greg.

SEVENTH ROUND

Greg: (229) Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State. A productive college quarterback who is tough and can move effectively in the pocket.

(231) Darius Marshall, RB, Marshall. A good college back with a nice size/speed combination and some power behind him.

(247) Thomas Welch, OT, Vanderbilt. Athletic former tight end works hard and is smart. Only been a lineman for a few years and plenty of room to improve.

(248) Steven Turner, WR, Bishops Queen College (Canada). Who, you say? A truly under the radar player who caused a buzz when he was at the CFL Evaluation Camp (The CFL’s equivalent of the Combine) and shattered records for that camp by running a 4.31/40. Also posted numbers in other tests that would have placed him near the top of the wide receiver class at the NFL Combine. Suddenly, the NFL wanted to know who this guy was. Well, he’s a pure burner and project with the skills to develop. He wasn’t overly productive in college, but then again, he’s playing with guys at quarterback who aren’t that talented. He did show some skills as a kick returner. His times could make him as high as a 4th round pick and a month ago even NFL scouts hadn’t heard of him. Says here the Patriots roll the dice on this project.

7(250) Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa. A very productive and quick but undersized kid who works extremely hard and, at the least, will be a great special teams player in the NFL.

Chris: I like ‘em. Robinson would be an interesting guy to watch in camp, while Turner looks like someone worth finding oot more aboot (sorry – couldn’t resist).

Mickey Shuler

I got mostly offensive-minded in this round, but I’m starting with (229) Brent Bowden, P, Virginia Tech because if the Pats can use a sixth to draft a long-snapper last year, they can use a seventh to secure their punter. Bowden’s one of the best.

(231) Mickey Shuler, TE, Penn State. No one likes the old school more than Bill Belichick, and Shuler reeks of that era: he’s a blocking TE who sees himself as a receiver, with an NFL vet father.

(247) Chris Maragos, S, Wisconsin. If you have speed and quickness as a safety, great. If you have brains, even better. Maraga has them all and would, at the very least, add to the special teams unit.

(248) Jameson Konz, TE, Kent State. This round’s the best time to take a chance on a player, and considering the Patriots got Julian Edelman here last year, I’m heading back to Kent State for a receiver/athlete type.

(250) Bill Cundiff, QB, Ashland. I’m stealing your guy, Greg. I like his 24 TDs vs. one interception. Those are great numbers at any level, even Pop Warner (no relation).

Scott: I’m just thinking of how exhausted we are every spring after tracking 250+ draft picks; it’s the only time of the year when I don’t want any more football. That only lasts a few hours, though, because by the next day I’m combing the web for UDFA signings. Anyway DE Chris McCoy was the only site visit in this range, but workouts included DE’s Antonio Coleman and Alex Daniels; DT’s Aleric Mullins and Ricardo Matthews; LB Matt Mayberry; CB’s Nolan Carroll and Robert McClain; FB Manase Tonga; QB’s Zac Robinson (mentioned earlier by Greg) and Rusty Brown; and G Phil Costa and C Jim Cordle. The Pats also visited with UMass receiver Jeremy Horne after his recent pro day.

Chris: So, readers, give us your picks in the comment section below. We’ll pay special attention to the under-the-radar guys New England should take – be the first on your block to say “I told you so!”

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College Scout, September 19, 2009

September 19, 2009 By 2 Comments

by Greg Doyle, Patriots Daily Staff
September 19, 2009

Tennessee at Florida (3:30 PM CBS)

The Jets-Patriots NFL matchup isn’t the only football game this weekend that has featured months of smack talk. The Tennessee and Florida game has had chatter swirling around it dating back to the Volunteers hiring former Oakland Raiders coach Lane Kiffin after last season. Allegations of recruiting violations back and forth kept things percolating over the spring. Kiffin has played the role of the college Rex Ryan, making bold predictions for his team’s chances against the Gators, which he’s tried to tone down this week by calling Florida the most talented college football team in history. But the emotions are running high and that could be bad news for Tennessee, a wounded former college football giant just trying to get back on its feet while coming off a loss to a mediocre UCLA team. Kiffin is probably right about Florida’s talent and not just blowing smoke. So, if he can keep this game interesting into the fourth quarter, it may just add one more thing on the long list of items Raiders owner Al Davis was wrong about.

Florida QB Tim Tebow (#15)

There are mixed feelings amongst football observers whether Heisman winner Tebow has the skills necessary to be successful in the NFL. Tebow has traditional drop-back QB size at 6’3″ 232, and he hardly possesses a weak arm. On the field, Tebow is a leader and runs the Florida offense to perfection. But Tebow is anything but a conventional QB; he’s an unconventional QB in an unconventional offense, using his legs to scramble around the pocket or run down field. At times, Florida has basically used him as their short yardage and goal line running back. He has the strength to overpower, as witnessed by his 23 rushing touchdowns as a sophomore. It says here, despite his unconventional style and the offense he plays in, Tebow has the talent to be a success on the NFL level. He should be a first day pick, possibly a first round pick. Watch him today, as he is very exciting and you can see the NFL skills show up here and there despite the spread offense he runs.

Florida DE Jermaine Cunningham (#49)

Cunningham is one of those college defensive ends who may be able to shift to outside linebacker in the NFL. It seems the vast majority of those projects don’t make it; however, some make it huge. Trying to figure out which ones have the upside to make the shift is the hard part. Cunningham seems to have all the attributes necessary to succeed at the next level. He stands 6’3″, 252 lbs. with penetration ability and is a solid tackler. His speed is uncertain, but he’s a good athlete. He isn’t a good enough pass rusher to he can exclusively play that role in the NFL. He is either going to show the ability to play linebacker and be stout against the run or he isn’t going to make it. His play today against a pro-style offense at Tennessee may provide some clues.

Florida LB Brandon Spikes (#51)

A 1st team All American middle linebacker, he may be the top linebacker taken in next April’s NFL draft. He seems to have all the attributes one would want, size, strength, mobility, solid tackling ability, leadership, and good production. All this points to a sure fire NFL first round pick. With Jerod Mayo having the same sort of versatility, it’s possible the Patriots would take him if they had the shot. But he likely won’t last that long.

Tennessee QB Jonathan Crompton (#8)

Crompton is an enigma. He seems to have all the attributes of an excellent QB. Strong arm, good size, mobility, and athletic ability are all there, but for whatever reason it just hasn’t come together for him. It was thought playing in Kiffin’s NFL-style offense would do wonders for him, but after a strong first game against a weak opponent, he took a step back in last week’s loss to UCLA. He is now in danger of being benched and if any player ever needed to save their career with a good performance against a top-notch opponent, it’s Crompton this week. Last week he returned to being turnover prone by throwing three picks and fumbling once. He simply has to stop doing that and also needs to show touch and accuracy more consistently. His completion rate is only 50.6 percent for his career. That simply won’t cut it on any level. The talent is there and he deserves a little longer to get in tune with the NFL style offense, but his chances are running out.

Tennessee RB Montario Hardesty (#2)

Hardesty is a solid back who’ll play in the NFL, but will split time this year with Bryce Brown, the number one freshman running back in the country. Hardesty is a good sized running back at 215 lbs. He runs hard with good power, but lacks breakaway speed. He is a tough guy who’ll also show he can participate in the passing game, which so far has been a little limited in his time at Tennessee. More than likely a middle round choice at best.

Tennessee DT Dan Williams (#55)

Williams is a massive 327 lb. nose tackle who seemingly would be a perfect fit with a team like the Patriots. He is strong, a space eater and plays well against the run. Hasn’t shown much pass rush ability, but holds his own at the point of attack and is a decent athlete. Has some potential and it looks like he hasn’t reached his peak yet.

Texas Tech at Texas (8:00 PM EST ABC)

Texas has probably thought about this game for a year. A one point loss at Texas Tech last year (on the last play of the game) was the Longhorns only loss, and it could be argued they lost a National Championship because of their cross-state rival and long-time weak sister. It says here that, while still explosive on offense, Texas Tech isn’t quite as talented as last year and will suffer at the hands of a motivated and ready for revenge Texas team.

Texas Tech DE Daniel Howard (#53)

Another potential outside linebacker convert who came to the Red Raiders last year after a year as a JUCO. Regressed somewhat and only made 8 tackles, but it looks like he has earned a greatly increased role this year. He has always been able to rush the passer and currently leads Texas Tech with 2 sacks through the early going. Has good speed and decent size. Can play special teams. Right now a project, but has NFL size and some good athletic ability. Someone to watch.

Texas Tech CB Jamar Wall (#3)

A good college corner with decent size and lots of experience. Wall is one of the leaders of the Red Raider defense and has been a very solid and productive player for them. Decent speed and some ability as a kick returner as well. He’s off to a good start; it’ll be interesting to see how he does at against a top-notch QB this week.

Texas QB Colt McCoy (#12)

The Longhorns leader is a strong armed field general who rarely gets rattled, is very accurate and is unquestionably one of the coolest customers and mistake-free quarterbacks in college football. He just doesn’t make many dumb throws and his accuracy makes things very difficult on defenses trying to stop Texas. Completed an amazing 76.7 percent of his passes last season. He does need to bulk up a bit as he isn’t the biggest quarterback around. Only 210 lbs, he needs more bulk to avoid injury in the NFL. Is elusive and can throw on the move and take off running with surprising speed as well. He should be a very high pick.

Texas WR Jordan Shipley (#8)

Off to a great start this year, this slot receiver has great moves, runs crisp routes and is elusive after the catch. He has excellent hands as well and produces in the red zone by finding openings in tight areas. A tough kid, he has good size for an inside receiver. Potential first round pick who’d be great with the Patriots, a team who values his type of skills.

Texas LB Sergio Kindle (#2)

A big, strong linebacker who can cover tight ends, run with most backs, rush the passer and take on guards at the line of scrimmage. He is 255 lbs., but runs well. Can also get down in a stance and beat tackles to get to the quarterback. Had 10 sacks last year. A playmaker who plays hard. Likely another very high Longhorn draft choice.

E-mail Greg Doyle at [email protected]

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