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When it comes to the Denver Broncos (9-3) and Oakland Raiders (3-9), throw out the records. These bitter AFC West rivals, who square off on NFL Network on Thursday night (8:20 p.m. ET), hate each other, and the fuel of emotions has helped spark a few... more

The rest of the NFL might not want to hear this, but the New England Patriots' offense is built to win the Super Bowl this year. Already the league's most prolific offense in terms of scoring and yardage , the unit is designed to create problems... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL Highly productive running back Montee Ball has helped guide Wisconsin to three straight Rose Bowl appearances. Montee Ball might not hear his name called on the first day of the 2013 NFL Draft, but he will be an impact... more

John Bazemore/Associated Press Georgia junior Jarvis Jones has 10.5 sacks this season heading into Saturday's SEC title game against Alabama. Football scouts quickly will tell you that the Southeastern Conference is a hotbed for NFL talent. The... more

What is Jim Harbaugh doing in San Francisco? That's a question some folks are asking after the San Francisco 49ers head coach named Colin Kaepernick the starter, despite the healthy return of Alex Smith. In making the decision, Harbaugh opts for a... more

It's not often that a regular-season game creates the atmosphere of a playoff contest, but the Thursday night battle between the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints (8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network) has the potential to turn into an epic affair. The... more

Mike Roemer/Associated Press The Packers' Aaron Rodgers (left) and the Bears' Jay Cutler are both dealing with leaky offensive lines.   The battle for supremacy in the NFC North should be one of the most compelling to watch over the final... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones has thrown 120 touchdown passes (along with 50 interceptions) in four years. Landry Jones is the biggest enigma in the 2013 quarterback class. The Oklahoma senior is arguably the most... more

Melina Vastola/US Presswire Defensive end Cornellius "Tank" Carradine leads the ACC with 10.5 sacks and leads Florida State with 69 tackles. The college football season is winding down, but scouts are just starting to narrow their focus on the... more

The Week 12 schedule begins with a three-course football feast on Thanksgiving Day. Here are the key questions and my predicted outcomes for Thursday's games: Houston Texans (9-1) at Detroit Lions (4-6) 12:30 p.m. ET, CBS Can Matthew Stafford pick... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL.com USC quarterback Matt Barkley has struggled to make his mark in his final season of college football. When Matt Barkley returned to USC for his senior year, it was likely with visions of bagging a national championship and... more

Alix Drawec/NFL Utah DT Star Lotulelei has the physical dimensions (6-foot-4, 325 pounds) and athleticism scouts salivate over. Is Utah defensive tackle Star Lotulelei worthy of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft? That's the... more

The final month of college football's regular season provides NFL scouts with several matchups that ultimately will determine the draft fate of some of the top prospects in this year's draft class. While most evaluators will not admit to being swayed... more

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-4) have crept back into the NFC playoff picture behind an explosive offense this franchise hasn't since the days of Doug Williams, Ricky Bell and Jimmie Giles. Jeremiah: Who has the edge? Nick Fairley vs. Jeff Saturday.... more

Thursday night's AFC East showdown between the Miami Dolphins (4-5) and Buffalo Bills (3-6) is shaping up to be something of an elimination game on NFL Network (8:20 p.m. ET). While both teams have been competitive at times this season, a lack of... more

Drew Brees is one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, but the New Orleans Saints are better when the running game is the foundation of their offensive game plan. Drew Brees I'm sure fans of the perennial Pro Bowler will take umbrage with... more

John David Mercer/US Presswire Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel is a do-everything quarterback who represents the cutting edge of the position.   "Johnny Football" is the wave of the future at the quarterback position. Traditional NFL... more

The college football season is past the midway point, but scouts are just beginning to form strong opinions on NFL hopefuls based on their performances in big games against conference rivals. When I was scouting for the Carolina Panthers and Seattle... more

The 1985 Chicago Bears have been the standard for defensive domination in the NFL for almost three decades, but watching Lovie Smith's troops terrorize the league in the first half of the 2012 campaign, there might be a challenger to the throne. The... more

The battle between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts does not offer the winner AFC South supremacy, but it's still a big game for both teams. The Colts (5-3) have reeled off three straight wins and are looking to remain in the playoff hunt... more

Associated Press Peyton Manning's Broncos, Jay Cutler's Bears and Russell Wilson's Seahawks are gunning for football's top prize.   The NFL season has hit the halfway point, yet there isn't a clear-cut favorite in either conference. In... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL Kenjon Barner guided Oregon to a thrilling 62-51 win over USC, piling up 321 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Is it the system or the player? That's the question scouts must address when assessing the pro potential of... more

The final college football season for top NFL prospects is a roller coaster ride. The preseason hype surrounding a player's potential is routinely followed by harsh criticism that seemingly sends his stock tumbling down the charts. Part of the... more

Before the season started, the midseason matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Diego Chargers seemed like it might have playoff implications. Instead, both AFC West rivals are looking to get their seasons back on track. The Chargers (3-4)... more

Uh oh! That's what defensive coordinators around the NFL are uttering after watching Peyton Manning find his groove as the quarterback of the Denver Broncos. The four-time MVP has been on a sensational run over the past five games, completing 68.5... more

Bob Donnan/US Presswire N.C. State QB Mike Glennon's stock is rising after a prolific performance in a narrow loss to North Carolina. Mike Glennon might be the best quarterback available in the 2013 NFL Draft. I know that statement will... more

Dave Martin/Associated Press Quarterback Aaron Murray has thrown at least two touchdown passes in six of Georgia's seven games this season. There is nothing better than watching top prospects square off in big games in the month of October.... more

The Minnesota Vikings have emerged as early contenders in the NFC, but a showdown with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on NFL Network's Thursday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET) will give the nation a chance to see what this team is all about. Propelled by the... more

Defense still wins championships in the NFL. That's why the Minnesota Vikings shouldn't be dismissed as viable contenders in the NFC. A defense that has traditionally ranked among the best in the league has not only regained its swagger, but is... more

The college football season has reached its midpoint, and NFL scouts have begun their grades on players. Find out which college players have stood out so far. (*Denotes underclassmen.) http://www.nfl.com/podcast/nfl-draft-tracker-podcast... more

The Carolina Panthers' decision to dismiss general manager Marty Hurney on Monday certainly caught me by surprise, but I see it as the first of many moves owner Jerry Richardson will make in an attempt to turn around a franchise that has fallen on hard... more

RG3 for MVP? As absurd as that question would have appeared prior to the season, given Robert Griffin III's rookie status on the Washington Redskins, the spectacular performance from the No. 2 overall pick over the first six weeks of the season has... more

There certainly will be no love lost when the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers meet in a battle for NFC West supremacy. The Seahawks (4-2) enter the game riding the momentum of a thrilling victory over the New England Patriots, while the 49ers... more

"U MAD BRO?" That was the caption on a picture tweeted out by Richard Sherman that depicts the Seattle cornerback taunting Tom Brady after the Seahawks' 24-23 victory over the New England Patriots on Sunday. While this certainly isn't a shining... more

Nam Y. Huh/Associated Press Linebacker Manti Te'o played an integral role in Notre Dame's thrilling overtime defeat of Stanford on Saturday. Manti Te'o is the best defensive player in college football, and it's not even close. While fans of... more

Margaret Bowles/Associated Press Undrafted free-agent rookie Brandon Bolden averages a robust 5.6 yards per carry for the New England Patriots. The New England Patriots continue to field one of the NFL's most explosive offenses, but the unit... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2) travel to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Titans (1-4) in what promises to be a hard-hitting affair. Although these two teams hold a combined record of 3-6 entering this game, the Steelers know this is an opportunity to... more

Harrison: Week 6 Power Rankings With five weeks in the books, the league hierarchy still is taking shape. Elliot Harrison updates his pecking order. More ... The San Francisco 49ers were widely considered to be the top team in the NFC prior to... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire West Virginia's Geno Smith stood tall against Alex Okafor and the rest of Texas' stout defense on Saturday. AUSTIN, Texas -- Geno Smith is the real deal. That opinion should certainly not surprise anyone who read the... more

NFL/Associated Press USC's Matt Barkley (left) and West Virginia's Geno Smith both display the tools necessary to succeed in the NFL. When USC Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley faltered on the national stage against the Stanford Cardinal, he not... more

The St. Louis Rams (2-2) welcome the Arizona Cardinals (4-0) to the Edward Jones Dome for a pivotal NFC West battle (8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network). The Cardinals are one of three unbeaten teams in the NFL, and they have created quite the buzz with a... more

The Minnesota Vikings have been one of the NFL's biggest surprises during the early part of the season. A team expected to finish in the cellar of the NFC North has jumped out to a 3-1 start and sits tied atop the division with the Chicago Bears. With... more

US Presswire South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore (left) and Michigan State's Le'Veon Bell are two multi-talented running backs. Don't believe the hype about the extinction of the running back. Although the NFL has become a passing league... more

What's wrong with Michael Vick? That question likely is running rampant through Philadelphia Eagles headquarters after seeing Vick suffer through a miserable three-game stint to start the season. The 10th-year pro is only completing 55.2 percent... more

Jennifer Stewart/US PRESSWIRE The Arizona Cardinals rank second in the NFL with 12 sacks, including five of Philadelphia Eagles QB Michael Vick. Does the NFL's top defense reside in the desert? Jeremiah: Birds of a feather? The Cardinals... more

The Baltimore Ravens are set to host the Cleveland Browns in an intriguing AFC North matchup on Thursday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network). This game might appear decidedly lopsided on paper, but the bitter historical rivalry between these... more

Melina Vastola/US Presswire Already known for his physical talents, E.J. Manuel has faced questions about his big-game ability.   Is E.J. Manuel a franchise quarterback? That was the question circulating throughout the scouting community... more

Steven Bisig/US Presswire Powerful defensive lineman Red Bryant is an integral piece in the Seattle Seahawks' highly versatile front seven. The Seattle Seahawks quietly are emerging as a playoff contender behind one of the NFL's top defenses.... more

The Carolina Panthers host the New York Giants in a critical NFC showdown on Thursday Night Football (8:20 p.m ET, NFL Network). This Week 3 game obviously doesn't have immediate playoff implications, but its winner goes over .500 and gets in position to... more

It's about time. That's what Buffalo Bills executives and coaches are likely saying after watching running back C.J. Spiller emerge as the NFL's most explosive player in the early goings of this season. Harrison: Week 3 Power Rankings Who's on the... more

Marcio Jose Sanchez/Associated Press Senior quarterback Matt Barkley and the USC Trojans were upset by Stanford in Palo Alto on Saturday night. PALO ALTO, Calif. -- Matt Barkley is still the best quarterback prospect in the 2013 draft class,... more

Robert Griffin III's scintillating debut gave the Washington Redskins an upset win over the New Orleans Saints and earned the rookie quarterback NFL Offensive Player of the Week honors. But coach Mike Shanahan and his offensive coordinator (and son) Kyle... more

The Green Bay Packers host the rival Chicago Bears  on Thursday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network). This is a pivotal early-season matchup in the NFC North. The Packers (0-1) are coming off a disheartening home loss to the San Francisco 49ers --... more

The seismic shift of NFL offenses from the ground to the air has led some to dismiss the Super Bowl prospects of the San Francisco 49ers, due to concerns about their "old school" attack. But after watching the Niners take down the Green Bay Packers 30-22... more

L.G. Patterson/Associated Press Outside linebacker Jarvis Jones flashed his unique skill set in Georgia's 41-20 trouncing of Missouri on Saturday. "He may be the best defensive player in American." That's Georgia coach Mark Richt on outside... more

The news of the collective bargaining agreement appeals panel overturning the NFL's suspensions of four players for their involvement in the New Orleans Saints' "bounty" program could change the short- and long-term plans of multiple teams for the 2012... more

Matt Slocum/Associated Press Jason Babin thoroughly enjoyed Juan Castillo's scheme last season, racking up 18 sacks for the Philadelphia Eagles. When Andy Reid made the surprising decision to appoint longtime offensive line coach Juan Castillo... more

Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy has been hailed in some circles as one of the brightest offensive minds in football following his outstanding work with Tim Tebow in 2011. McCoy implemented a zone-read offense built upon principles utilized... more

US Presswire Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert has the size, speed and general athleticism to make a mark in the pass-happy NFL.   The evolution of the passing game in the NFL is transforming the tight end position. Teams are searching for... more

Jeff Gentner/Associated Press West Virginia's Geno Smith is a do-it-all quarterback with a shot at winning the Heisman Trophy this season.   The chase for the Heisman Trophy is similar to a NASCAR race, with candidates' reputations... more

Associated Press/US Presswire Darrelle Revis, Ray Rice and DeMarcus Ware (from left to right) make an unparalleled impact every Sunday. NFL executives form contingency plans to deal with the loss of key players during portions of the season,... more

Most NFL coaches treat the third preseason game as the final dress rehearsal for the regular season. From extensive game planning to extended action for the first stringers, Week 3 provides a glimpse into the potential of teams and players across the... more

Most NFL executives would never admit to making a roster decision based solely on a single performance in August, but Week 3 games in the preseason certainly carry significance in the evaluation process. Coaches approach these exhibition contests like a... more

When the Miami Dolphins announced Monday that Ryan Tannehill will be their starting quarterback in Week 1, they became the fourth NFL team to give the top job to a rookie signal-caller. Tannehill will join the Indianapolis Colts' Andrew Luck, the... more

Joe Nicholson/US Presswire Matt Flynn (right) seems to be the Seattle Seahawks' top dog at quarterback, but Russell Wilson's not far behind. Earn everything. The Seattle Seahawks have this saying plastered at the opening of the tunnel... more

A report that the San Francisco 49ers will likely limit Randy Moss' playing time to 20-25 snaps per game created quite a buzz in league circles. Most observers have a tough time envisioning a team desperate for a No. 1 receiver limiting the playing time... more

Chuck Burton/Associated Press The tag team of running backs DeAngelo Williams (left) and Jonathan Stewart helps carry the Carolina Panthers.   The Carolina Panthers are investing heavily in their running backs, even while most NFL teams are... more

Mark Duncan/Associated Press Cleveland Browns rookie running back Trent Richardson has gone under the knife twice in the past six months. One of the jobs of a general manager is to put together contingency plans to handle the injury setbacks... more

Twelve teams kicked off Week 1 of the preseason on Thursday night. The remaining 20 clubs take the field Friday through Monday. Here is a quick primer for all 10 games: FRIDAY New York Jets at Cincinnati Bengals What to watch for: Tim... more

NFL.com has dispatched several writers to report on the 32 training camps. Bucky Brooks details his visit with the Seattle Seahawks. (Click here for the complete archive of Training Camp Reports. ) WHERE IS NFL.COM? The Seahawks are holding... more

NFL.com has dispatched several writers to report on the 32 training camps. Bucky Brooks details his visit with the Oakland Raiders. (Click here for the complete archive of Training Camp Reports. ) WHERE IS NFL.COM? The Raiders host training camp... more

NFL.com has dispatched several writers to report on the 32 training camps. Bucky Brooks details his visit with the Arizona Cardinals. (Click here for the complete archive of Training Camp Reports .) WHERE IS NFL.COM? The Cardinals hosted a night... more

NFL.com has dispatched several writers to report on the 32 training camps over the next few weeks. Bucky Brooks details his visit with the Kansas City Chiefs. (Click here for the complete archive of Training Camp Reports .) WHERE IS NFL.COM? The... more

Bill Nichols/Associated Press This offseason the Kansas City Chiefs added one of the fastest players in the NFL, cornerback Stanford Routt.   The track speed at the Olympic Games always leaves people in awe, but NFL fans get to see that kind... more

NFL.com has dispatched several writers to report on the 32 training camps over the next few weeks. Bucky Brooks details his visit with the Jacksonville Jaguars. (Click here for the complete archive of Training Camp Reports .) WHERE IS NFL.COM? The... more

Wade Payne/Associated Press Tennessee Titans rookie linebacker Zach Brown has been a world-class athlete throughout his football career.   The Summer Olympics are supposed to be the ultimate athletic showcase, but not all of the world's... more

Some might think the New Orleans Saints' offense is going to take a step back without suspended coach Sean Payton at the controls. But as I see it, nothing could be further from the truth. The offense will flourish with offensive coordinator Pete... more

Associated Press Asante Samuel (left) is a top playmaker in zone coverage, while Nnamdi Asomugha excels playing man-to-man.   In today's NFL, is it better to have a ball hawk or a lockdown defender as your No. 1 cornerback? That was the... more

Tom DiPace/Associated Press The Tennessee Titans will miss receiver Kenny Britt if he's suspended, but they have other offensive options.   The Tennessee Titans were likely putting together contingency plans for receiver Kenny Britt, who is... more

Rich Addicks/Associated Press While Matt Hasselbeck (left) enjoyed some fine performances last season, Jake Locker showed great promise.   Do you pick the winner of a quarterback competition based on production or potential? That is the... more

Associated Press Darren Sproles (left) replaced Reggie Bush in New Orleans, but both players enjoyed a productive 2011 campaign.   The devaluation of the running back position has been greatly exaggerated. In fact, I would suggest that... more

Tony Tribble/Associated Press While C.J. Spiller (left) is a promising young back, 31-year-old Fred Jackson has produced at a high level.   Chan Gailey created quite a stir when he suggested the Buffalo Bills could split carries between... more

Who is the better No. 1 receiver: Vincent Jackson or Brandon Marshall? That's the question several front office executives grappled with during the offseason while assessing two of the NFL's top receivers on the open market (Jackson as an unrestricted... more

Stephen Morton/Associated Press Connor Barwin enjoyed a breakthrough season in his third year with the Texans, piling up 11.5 sacks in 2011.   Wade Phillips might fall short as a head coach, but there is no denying his greatness as a... more

Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco? That's a question I would like to ask coaches and scouts if we could re-do the 2008 NFL Draft . Both quarterbacks have been outstanding players for their respective franchises and are on the verge of joining the ranks of the... more

Mark J. Rebilas/US Presswire Kevin Kolb (left) and John Skelton will go head-to-head for the starting job at Arizona Cardinals training camp.   Kevin Kolb or John Skelton? That's the biggest question in the mind of Arizona Cardinals coach... more

US Presswire Chargers head coach Norv Turner (left) and Eagles boss Andy Reid are both coming off disappointing 8-8 seasons.   How do you measure a coach's greatness? In the NFL, coaches are judged solely on their ability to win the Super... more

The recent revelation of a trade request by the Minnesota Vikings' Percy Harvin has put the spotlight squarely on one of the NFL's most explosive multi-purpose weapons. While most have focused on Harvin himself, the swirl of attention prompted me to... more

Tom DiPace/Associated Press Versatile defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson displayed an ability to wreak havoc as a rookie last season.   The New York Jets have been one of the top defenses in the NFL under Rex Ryan, utilizing a 3-4 scheme... more

The proliferation of the passing game in the NFL has led to a renaissance of the tight end position. Teams are building passing games around the talents of big, athletic pass catchers over the middle of the field. The results have been spectacular. Last... more

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The San Francisco 49ers were on the verge of capturing the NFC crown a season ago, but a scattershot offense kept them from reaching their potential. San Francisco ranked 26th in total offense and 29th in passing offense. However,... more

Matt Ludtke/Associated Press The Packers' defense had no answer for Ahmad Bradshaw and Co. in the Giants' 37-20 playoff triumph in Green Bay.   The Green Bay Packers' championship aspirations went up in smoke a season ago behind a faltering... more

Ask any defensive coordinator in the NFL what it takes to build a championship unit and he'll stress the importance of being strong down the middle. This is nothing new. The premise of featuring blue chip players at defensive tackle, middle linebacker... more

Associated Press New Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter (left) should help Matt Ryan become a truly elite quarterback.   The Atlanta Falcons have been on the verge of title contention over the past few seasons, but an underachieving... more

Associated Press Ray Rice (left) and Matt Forte have both rushed for more than 4,000 yards in their first four years in the NFL. The running back position has been devalued around the NFL, but there are still a handful of runners capable of putting... more

In the NFL, coaches will spend time in the film room studying the schemes of the most productive teams from the previous season to see if there is a tactic that can be copied and implemented into their respective playbooks. Given the success of the New... more

Charles LeClaire/US Presswire New offensive coordinator Todd Haley should help point the Steelers' attack in the right direction. The installation of Todd Haley as the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive coordinator has concerned some about the... more

The proliferation of the passing game in the NFL has made it imperative for defenses to feature at least one dominant pass rusher along the front line. In most cases, coaches would prefer that their top defender align at defensive end to create immediate... more

In the NFL, coaches and scouts refuse to use injuries as an excuse for lackluster performances on the field. However, it is apparent that teams are negatively impacted when top players leave the field for extended absences. Just look at the disappointing... more

Associated Press While Eli Manning (left) has a pair of Super Bowl rings, Tony Romo boasts the raw skills evaluators salivate over. Editor's Note: On Thursday, former NFL wide receiver Amani Toomer made headlines when he told SirusXM NFL Radio that... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL Wes Welker has produced some unbelievable numbers in his Patriots tenure, but how much of it is the system? Wes Welker is one of the most prolific pass catchers in NFL history, but the New England Patriots would be wise to not... more

US Presswire Tom Brady, Charles Woodson and Ray Lewis (from left to right) continue to play at an elite level well into their 30s. At a time when most players nearing the age of 30 are being run out of the NFL, a handful of wily veterans will... more

Evan Pinkus/Associated Press Mark Sanchez threw a career-high 26 touchdown passes last season, but turned the ball over 26 times, as well. Mark Sanchez is entering his fourth season as the New York Jets' starting quarterback, and it is certainly a... more

The proliferation of the passing game in the NFL has made it imperative to have a No. 1 receiver on the roster to compete with the elite teams in the league. The lead receiver is now the second-most important offensive position in the game (behind... more

The Baltimore Ravens might be without the services of reigning Defensive Player of the Year Terrell Suggs for the entire 2012 campaign, but I don't expect their defense to experience a drop-off. In fact, I believe the Ravens will continue to rank as one... more

The more things change, the more they stay the same. That's what opponents will soon realize after facing Andrew Luck and a rebuilt Indianapolis Colts offense that is eerily similar to the unit that dominated the AFC for more than a decade. Although... more

NFL.com analysts Bucky Brooks and Chad Reuter are handing out grades for every team following the 2012 NFL Draft . Click the team name to see each team's entire class. Denver Broncos: C+ John Elway and John Fox have enjoyed an outstanding... more

NFL.com analysts Bucky Brooks and Chad Reuter are handing out grades for every team following the 2012 NFL Draft . Click the team name to see each team's entire class. Houston Texans: B- Rick Smith used the draft to accentuate an already potent... more

Mark J. Rebilas/US Presswire Jonathan Vilma has been suspended for the entire 2012 season for his role in the Saints' bounty program. The fallout from the New Orleans Saints' participation in the bounty program threatens to wreck their 2012 season.... more

NFL.com analysts Bucky Brooks and Chad Reuter are handing out grades for every team following the 2012 NFL Draft . Click the team name to see each team's entire class. Baltimore Ravens: B+ Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta come away with another... more

NFL.com analysts Bucky Brooks and Chad Reuter are handing out grades for every team following the 2012 NFL Draft . Click the team name to see each team's entire class. Buffalo Bills: B- Buddy Nix has done a good job of rebuilding the roster in... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL As a junior last season at USC, Matt Barkley threw for 3,528 yards with 39 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Matt Barkley will be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. That is my expectation after conducting a... more

Mark J. Terrill/Associated Press USC's Robert Woods is one of the nation's top receiver prospects heading into the 2012 college season. With the 2012 NFL Draft in the books, scouts are already casting their eyes toward next year's crop of talent.... more

It is fairly unrealistic to judge a draft class immediately after the event, but it's never too early to speculate about which teams enjoyed successful weekends. From the New England Patriots retooling a suspect defense with exceptional playmakers in... more

We've reached Day 3 of the 2012 NFL Draft, and there are still a few intriguing names on the board. While all of these players are not "blue-chip" quality, they possess a few attributes that could allow them to enjoy success at the next level. After... more

The second day of the 2012 NFL Draft will provide teams with plenty of quality talent, but savvy evaluators must find a way to work up the charts to nab an overlooked blue-chip prospect. Based on Thursday night's events, here is I how envision the second... more

The days leading up to the NFL draft are always full of interesting rumors, myths and misinformation. The endless speculation is designed to create panic and uncertainty from decision makers who have specifically targeted prospects to add to their... more

The draft is only hours away, so teams around the league are diligently putting the final touches on their respective draft boards. General managers and personnel directors are running through various trade scenarios and mock drafts to prepare for every... more

I've often wondered how different the NFL draft would look if it was conducted closer to the conclusion of college football's regular season. Scouts would have to base their opinions solely off game tape and avoid the influence of the NFL Scouting... more

It is not a coincidence the NFL's perennial title contenders are also the teams that routinely walk away with the best draft classes. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers and New York Giants are... more

In the NFL, it takes about three years to fully evaluate a draft class. Coaches and scouts understand that it takes some time for some players to acclimate to the speed, intensity and tempo of the pro game. In addition, it takes some players more time to... more

It is fascinating to look back at previous drafts to track the progress of highly regarded prospects. While some of the early-round selections have started to make their mark as elite players, others have struggled finding their way in the league. As... more

It's amazing how quickly things change in the scouting world when it comes to evaluating prospects. Players see their draft stock fluctuate up and down like a roller coaster based on performances at postseason bowl games, the NFL Scouting Combine and... more

The 2012 NFL Draft is less than a month away, so scouts are meeting around the clock to put the finishing touches on draft boards as pro days come to a close. Although team visits, private workouts and medical evaluations could alter the landscape... more

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There are a few schools lauded in the scouting community for their ability to consistently develop pro-caliber players, and Alabama has been at the top of the list since Nick Saban arrived in 2007. The former NFL head coach runs his program like a pro... more

It's a foregone conclusion that Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III will be the first two quarterbacks to come off the board on draft day following their spectacular pro-day performances a week ago. The workouts confirmed scouts' opinions on each prospect... more

The New York Jets' surprising acquisition of Tim Tebow has been the subject of much debate since the news broke Wednesday. After a few days to reflect, I wanted to see how those close to the parties involved believe the move will impact the franchise. I... more

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Ben Liebenberg/NFL The Jets saw for themselves the impact Tim Tebow can make in a Week 11 loss to the Broncos last November. Uh-oh! That's what defensive coaches around the NFL should be saying after getting wind of the finally consummated trade... more

The Indianapolis Colts seemingly have made a decision about the No. 1 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft , with Andrew Luck appearing to be a lock for the selection. However, a number of scouts have yet to see Luck throw in person and he must answer a few... more

After limited participation in the NFL Scouting Combine , Robert Griffin III will unveil his talents for the world to see at Baylor's Pro Day on Wednesday. Scouts and coaches will be in attendance to see if the Heisman Trophy winner lives up the hype.... more

The Denver Broncos' acquisition of Peyton Manning certainly has placed the team among the ranks of the AFC elite. The offense should become one of the most explosive units in the league, and Manning's thumbprint undoubtedly will be on the game plan,... more

The Buffalo Bills made a huge splash in free agency with their signing of Mario Williams , but the move instantly spawned a series questions for evaluators across the league. Here are three questions that stood out in my mind when I saw the signing come... more

The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions fielded offensive juggernauts a season ago, but the most explosive offense in the NFC North in 2012 will reside in Chicago. Oh, I know that statement will appear to be a knee-jerk response to the blockbuster trade... more

Brian Spurlock/US Presswire Peyton Manning, who turns 36 later this month, has turned the ball over more frequently in recent seasons. Peyton Manning has been on the market for almost a week, and four teams are in hot pursuit of his services.... more

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Free agency will start Tuesday afternoon, and there is plenty of talent set to hit the open market. From explosive pass catchers to elite pass rushers, teams have many options to fill the voids on their respective rosters. In fact, there is so much... more

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Michael Conroy/AP LSU's Michael Brockers was a hot commodity in January, but a lackluster combine definitely hurt his draft stock. The NFL Scouting Combine is a major factor in the evaluation process, but scouts place a greater emphasis on pro day... more

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Dave Martin/AP Stephen Hill put on quite a show in Indianapolis, running a 4.36 40-yard dash and excelling in receiver drills. Who is Stephen Hill? That's one of the biggest questions floating around in scouting circles after the former Georgia... more

The news of the New Orleans Saints operating a "bounty" program from 2009 to 2011 under defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has created quite a stir since the news broke Friday, but I will let you in on a dirty little secret: The practice is commonplace... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The final day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided scouts with an opportunity to see several of the top prospects display their immense talent and potential. Here are a few of the notable standouts in my mind ... (Click on... more

The third day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided scouts with an opportunity to see several of the top prospects display their immense talent and potential. Here are a few of the notable standouts in my mind ...  (Click on prospect's... more

The second day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided scouts with an opportunity to see several of the top prospects display their immense talent and potential. Here are a few of the notable standouts in my mind: (Click on prospect's name to... more

The first day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided scouts with an opportunity to see several of the top prospects display their immense talent and potential. Here are a few of the notable standouts in my mind: (Click on prospect's name to... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The copycat nature of the NFL is routinely revealed on draft day. Teams will attempt to duplicate the success of their rivals by acquiring players with characteristics and skills that are prevalent in the game's biggest stars. Last... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The NFL officially determined the final 2012 NFL Draft order on Friday morning with coin flips between the Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers, as well as the Kansas City Chiefs and Seattle Seahawks. The Dolphins (8th overall pick) and... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The NFL Scouting Combine lacks the appeal of a competitive game, but fans can still glean valuable information from watching prospects work out in shorts. Here are some of the players your favorite team will study at Lucas Oil Stadium:... more

Tony Gutierrez/US Presswire The trade market for Robert Griffin III will be affected by the results of Friday's draft tiebreaker coin flips. INDIANAPOLIS -- On Friday morning, the NFL will conduct a series of coin tosses to determine the final... more

With the NFL's aerial explosion in recent years, scouts and coaches are scrambling to find big, athletic defenders in the secondary to match up with these basketball types at receiver that are ruling the league. Teams are eschewing diminutive corners in... more

The evolution of the passing game in the NFL has forced coaches and scouts to alter the job description for linebackers. Teams are intent on identifying disruptive playmakers with the speed and quickness to harass the passer, while also possessing the... more

The flurry of offensive production during the regular season appeared to de-emphasize the importance of defensive football in the minds of many, but the New York Giants' unexpected title run will lead some franchises to focus once again on that side of... more

The headlines and attention typically heads in the direction of skill players, but championship teams are built around a collection of stalwarts along the offensive line. Teams capable of controlling the line of scrimmage are able to impose their will... more

As the NFL shifts to a league built upon the pass, more teams are seeking explosive playmakers at wide receiver and tight end to create mismatches in space. In the 2012 NFL Draft class, there are several intriguing options at both positions, with... more

The evolution of the NFL into a passing league has seemingly devalued the running back position, but the 2012 NFL Draft class features several prospects capable of impacting the game as runners or receivers out of the backfield. Brooks: Value pick... more

The 2012 NFL Draft class is loaded at the quarterback position, with Stanford's Andrew Luck and Baylor's Robert Griffin III pegged as can't-miss prospects at the top of the board. Both are elite-caliber playmakers capable of reversing the fortunes of... more

Alabama safety Mark Barron has undergone double hernia surgery and will miss the NFL Scouting Combine , according to several reports Friday. While his initial prognosis is reportedly good following the surgery, Barron's draft status could take a hit... more

Dave Martin/AP Trent Richardson finished third in Heisman Trophy voting after his 1,679-yard, 21-TD season for Alabama. Trent Richardson might be the best player in the draft, but the running back from Alabama is not assured of being a top-10 pick.... more

Andrew Luck is presumed to be the No. 1 overall pick after being hailed by scouts across the league as the most pro-ready prospect to enter the NFL draft since Peyton Manning. However, the prospect generating the most buzz heading into the NFL Scouting... more

The NFL has always been a copycat league. Franchises routinely examine the blueprints of Super Bowl champions to see if there are elements that can be replicated for desired results. This is especially true when a team wins multiple titles in a short span... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- Who says coaching doesn't matter? Not anyone who watched Tom Coughlin and Kevin Gilbride put together a brilliant offensive game plan that keyed the New York Giants' victory in Super Bowl XLVI . From the clever utilization of... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- In guiding the New England Patriots and New York Giants to Super Bowl XLVI, Bill Belichick and Tom Coughlin have been able to solve the pressing issues for their respective teams. Although some woes came on the offensive side of the ball,... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- Five years ago, Super Bowl XLII turned on the unexpected performance of David Tyree. The Giants' unheralded pass catcher tallied three receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown , but it was his improbable 32-yard catch over Rodney Harrison... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The New York Giants and New England Patriots have advanced to Super Bowl XLVI due to their ability to identify and exploit favorable matchups on both sides of the ball. While both staffs will spend an inordinate amount of time coming up... more

The fourth day of Senior Bowl practice was moved inside on Thursday due to severe weather conditions. Although the walkthrough provided little in the way of evaluation, it gave me plenty of time to reflect on some of my observations from the week: »... more

The third day of practice at the Senior Bowl typically provides scouts with an opportunity to finally see prospects at their best. Players from both squads are finally comfortable in their new surroundings, and their gradual mastery of the playbook allows... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- To get an accurate assessment of a prospect's pro potential, you must evaluate his performance in pads. On the second day of Senior Bowl practice, Mike Shanahan and Leslie Frazier put their respective squads in pads and you could see... more

Tom Brady could collect his third NFL MVP award in the coming weeks, but Vince Wilfork is the reason the New England Patriots are headed to Super Bowl XLVI. The eighth-year pro was the most dominant defender on the field in the AFC Championship Game,... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- The Senior Bowl is the crown jewel of the college all-star circuit. The game annually showcases the top talent in a draft class, and the 2012 contest is certainly no different. Several of the top-rated prospects at their respective... more

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The fourth day of practice at the East-West Shrine Game marks the day when coaches shift their emphasis from providing evaluation opportunities to preparing for the game this weekend. While watching Bobby Ross and Brad Childress... more

Here are the players who could ultimately decide if their team will advance to Super Bowl XLVI : Ravens: Joe Flacco, QB It's not a secret that this game will be decided by the performance of Flacco. For all his accomplishments during his four-year... more

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The third day of practice at the East-West Shrine Game provided scouts with another opportunity to see the top prospects work out in pads. The pace and tempo of practice was certainly pro-like in nature, and you could see players... more

The Baltimore Ravens are on the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance behind a hard-hitting defense that routinely diffuses some of the league's most explosive offenses. However, the New England Patriots' high-octane offense poses unique challenges and... more

The second day of practice at the East-West Shrine Game (Saturday on NFL Network , 4 p.m. ET) provided scouts with the opportunity to see top prospects workout in pads. The change in practice attire doesn't appear significant on the surface, but the... more

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The East-West Shrine Game is scheduled for this weekend, so I had to pack my bags to head down to St. Petersburg to watch some of the this year's draft prospects square off in a series of competitive practices that will play a... more

Alix Drawec / NFL Andrew Luck has been under close watch by NFL teams for quite some time. As eyes begin to shift toward the 2012 NFL Draft in New York in late April, NFL.com draft analyst Bucky Brooks presents his top 50 prospects right now.... more

As eyes begin to shift toward the 2012 NFL Draft in New York in late April, NFL.com draft analyst Bucky Brooks presents his top 10 prospects right now.... more

Michael Crabtree, San Francisco 49ers, WR: The 49ers have relied on their ground attack to keep games close, but the Saints' potent offense could trigger a shootout. Crabtree has shown explosive potential when given opportunities, so Alex Smith could... more

If the adage about defenses winning championships still holds true, the New York Giants have more than a puncher's chance at capturing the Lombardi Trophy in a few weeks. Led by a defensive unit that is starting to flex its muscles, the Giants are one... more

Associated Press Alabama's Courtney Upshaw (41) tackles LSU's Kenny Hilliard* during Monday's BCS title game. The opportunity to watch LSU and Alabama battle in the BCS Championship Game was an evaluator's dream. Both squads are loaded with future... more

Associated Press Alabama's Courtney Upshaw (41) tackles LSU's Kenny Hilliard (27) during Monday's BCS title game. For a talent evaluator, there is nothing like watching two squads loaded with NFL-caliber prospects square off in a high stakes battle... more

The San Francisco 49ers are a title contender behind a stifling defense that has suffocated some of the NFL's top offenses. But they face a tremendous challenge in a New Orleans Saints' offense that has been sizzling since the middle of the season.... more

US Presswire Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck, left, finished second to Baylor's Robert Griffin III in the Heisman Trophy voting. The college bowl season provides scouts with another opportunity to assess the potential of top prospects in... more

Touted as one of the most dangerous playoff contenders going into the stretch, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reeling from the loss of running back Rashard Mendenhall as they head into the postseason. While most view his season-ending injury as... more

Chris Morrison/US Presswire Stanford QB Andrew Luck completed 27 of 31 passes for 347 yards and two touchdowns against Oklahoma State. GLENDALE, Ariz. -- As an evaluator, you love any opportunity to watch top prospects square off on a big stage.... more

In a league governed by quarterback play, scouts, coaches and general managers are always looking for the next big thing at the position. The league's next franchise quarterback might be Aaron Rodgers' backup in Green Bay. With Rodgers resting in the... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 17: Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos, WR: With the Broncos' playoff... more

Luc Leclerc / US Presswire Getting Tim Tebow under duress is a big key to keeping him from taking control of games. With Tim Tebow coming off the worst performance of his young career, I wanted to know if defensive coordinators around the... more

Jerome Miron / US Presswire Robert Griffin's performance in the Alamo Bowl could tell scouts a lot about his NFL potential.   With the college bowl season well under way, scouts have been tuning in closely to get one final look at the stars... more

It has only been one season, but the 2011 draft class might rank as the best crop of talent in NFL history. That's quite a statement considering it typically takes three years to evaluate player performance in scouting circles, but the remarkable play... more

After watching nearly an entire season of football, I'm convinced the Pittsburgh Steelers are the team to beat in the AFC. The Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots will certainly dispute that notion based on their regular season accomplishments,... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 16: Plaxico Burress, New York Jets, WR: The opportunity to knock his... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL Quarterback Matt Barkley announced Thursday he will return to USC for his senior season next fall. Matt Barkley's bypassing of the 2012 NFL Draft might have cost him millions in the short term, but the decision to spend another... more

In a copycat league, coaches are not afraid to steal elements from successful game plans designed by their counterparts. And with the way Kansas City throttled Green Bay's offense in Sunday's 19-14 upset , defensive coordinators around the league are... more

The matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers could've been a preview for Super Bowl XLVI with both teams residing near the top of their respective conferences. After watching the 49ers come away with an impressive 20-3 win , here... more

US Presswire / Associated Press Calvin Johnson (left), Matthew Stafford (center) and Nate Burleson will be a bad matchup for any playoff team. OAKLAND -- The Detroit Lions are on the cusp of clinching their first postseason berth since 1999, and... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 15: Chris Harris and Jonathan Wilhite, Broncos, CBs: A spate of... more

Bucky Brooks recently shared his view on Coach of the Year , and why he thinks Denver's John Fox should win the award. Below, he shares his picks for the rest of the Associated Press' end-of-season awards, beginning with Defensive Player of the Year.... more

Who says coaching doesn't matter? Supporters in San Francisco and Houston certainly will attest to the value of an exceptional leader after watching their franchises claim division crowns despite facing difficult circumstances. For their work, Jim... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 14: Michael Griffin, S, Titans: Defensive coordinator Jerry Gray has... more

Scott Sewell/US Presswire Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill needs some work as a passer, but his athleticism helps set him apart. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10 college... more

Mitch Stringer / US Presswire Notre Dame's Michael Floyd is viewed as one of the best pure pass catchers in all of college football. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10... more

Mitch Stringer/US Presswire Virginia's Chase Minnifield has the pedigree (son of former NFLer) and talent to play corner at the next level. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his... more

Matt Cashore/US Presswire Boston College's Luke Kuechly led the nation with 191 tackles, averaging nearly 16 per game. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10 college players... more

Kyle Terada/US Presswire Oregon's LaMichael James is a small, multi-purpose running back who thrives in the Ducks' spread offense. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire North Carolina DE Quinton Coples had 7.5 sacks this season, after recording 10 as a junior. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10 college players by... more

Ben Liebenberg/NFL Stanford guard David DeCastro is considered to be the best interior lineman in college football. With the college football regular season wrapped up, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks is rolling out his top 10 college players by... more

Brian Spurlock/US Presswire Russell Wilson threw three TD passes in Wisconsin's win over Michigan State in the Big Ten title game. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 13: Brandon Jacobs, Giants, RB: The Giants' bruising running back... more

Derrick E. Hingle/US Presswire With Drew Brees (left) and Devery Henderson, the Saints have the NFL's top-ranked passing attack.   If you're looking for the NFC team with the firepower to challenge the Packers for the crown, you might want to... more

Associated Press Stanford's Andrew Luck has the physical tools and leadership skills to be a great NFL quarterback.   Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks has shared his notes and evaluations... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a big impact in Week 12: Steve Smith, Riley Cooper and Jason Avant, Eagles, WRs: Vince... more

Tony Sparano will likely have a tough time retaining his job, but he's not going down without a fight. Miami's on a three-game winning streak behind an offense that's come alive as the unit has jelled down the stretch. Here are three contributing... more

Carlos Osorio/AP Lions RB Kevin Smith exploded for 201 total yards and three touchdowns against the Panthers in Week 11.   The Lions found an unlikely remedy for their offensive woes Sunday, turning to running back Kevin Smith in the middle... more

Associated Press Baylor's Robert Griffin III has showcased his passing and running skills from the QB position.   Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and evaluations on... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 11 : Albert Haynesworth, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, DT: It is a shame... more

As the San Francisco 49ers sit at 8-1 and firmly atop the NFC West, Jim Harbaugh has touted Alex Smith as an elite quarterback. Although no one is ready to proclaim him as the next Joe Montana or Steve Young, the thought of Smith joining the ranks of the... more

The Texans were just starting to create a buzz as the top team in the AFC until a foot injury sidelined Matt Schaub for the remainder of the season and thrust Matt Leinart into the starting role. Although the team has overcome the loss of its top... more

Matt Strasen / US Presswire Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon, a junior, has the skills to make an immediate impact in the NFL.   Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 10: Darren Sproles and Pierre Thomas, Saints, RBs: The Saints are... more

Gary A. Vasquez / US Presswire Andrew Luck* is the best prospect in college football and could make some team very happy if he goes pro early.   The season is only at the halfway point, but some teams are already looking at the college game... more

In a league driven by the performance of the quarterback, the most successful coaches are adaptable and willing to cater their offensive systems to fit the skill set of the signal caller. In Denver, John Fox and his coaching staff are undergoing a... more

Marvin Gentry / US Presswire Alabama's Trent Richardson* was one of the few offensive players to make an impact in a defensive battle with LSU.   Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 9: Mario Manningham, Giants, WR: The potential absence of Hakeem... more

The Kansas City Chiefs were left for dead after a dreadful three-game losing streak to start the season. However, Todd Haley's crew has surged to the top of the AFC West behind a resurgent defense that has started to punch opponents in the mouth. After... more

Kirby Lee/US Presswire Opponents had to account for Vince Young (right) last year, and that opened up running lanes for Chris Johnson.   What is going on with Chris Johnson? That's the question everyone is asking with the NFL's most explosive... more

Associated Press North Carolina's Quinton Coples (90) is regarded as the top pass rusher in the country. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and evaluations on potential... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 8: Knowshon Moreno and Lance Ball, Broncos, RBs: The loss of Willis... more

If you haven't been paying attention to the NFC North, the Bears have awakened from their early season slumber and are quietly in position to make a run at a playoff berth. While most observers would point to the Bears' play on defense and special teams... more

Bucky Brooks, an NFL.com analyst since 2009, played in the NFL from 1994-99 and later worked as a regional college scout for NFL teams from 2000-07. CALABASAS, Calif. -- It is over. That's my opinion of Terrell Owens' career after watching him work... more

Gerry Broome/AP The Stanford offensive line has kept Andrew Luck clean this season, only allowing two sacks in seven games. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 7: Corey Williams, Lions, DT: The challenge of stopping the Falcons'... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire Jay Ratliff and the Cowboys are averaging 3.2 sacks per game, which ranks third in the NFL. The NFC East race is wide open. No one has emerged as the true leader, and each has had several issues during the first six... more

Associated Press Albert Haynesworth (left) is starting to make his presence felt in New England's surging defense. Don't look now, but the New England Patriots are starting to find their championship swagger on defense. That's right. The... more

Brett Davis / US Presswire Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill is new to playing quarterback, but he's shown the potential to be special. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a few players who could have a great impact in Week 6: Nate Solder, Patriots, OT: In Sunday's Cowboys-Patriots game ,... more

Associated Press With aggressive schemes and deft use of personnel, Mike Zimmer has built the NFL's top-ranked defense. Every week, Bucky Brooks will bring a scout's perspective to some of the hot topics around the league. Move over... more

Every week, Bucky Brooks will bring a scout's perspective to some of the hot topics around the league. With the Bills among the NFL's biggest surprises, one thing is becoming increasingly clear in Buffalo, the offense is built around the unique talents... more

Jason O. Watson / US Presswire Stanford QB Andrew Luck continues to impress with his play and ability to command the offense. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Jeff Hansch/US Presswire Bears tackle Chris Williams will have his hands full against the Lions pass rush on Monday night. Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the... more

Every week, Bucky Brooks will bring a scout's perspective to some of the hot topics around the league. If the Jets are serious about making a Super Bowl run, they must take the ball out of Mark Sanchez's hands. He's not ready to be the driving force... more

With a quarter of the NFL season in the books, it's time to take a look at how the awards races are shaping up: Most Valuable Player La Canfora: Titans legit at 3-1 There's something brewing in Tennessee, writes Jason La Canfora, who points out the... more

Gerald Herbert / Associated Press Tyrann Mathieu is making a name for himself as part of a strong cornerback tandem at LSU. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Ed Reinke/AP Rookie RB Kendall Hunter had nine carries and scored a touchdown against the Bengals in Week 3. Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers. Here are a... more

Kim Klement/US Presswire Matt Ryan has been sacked 13 times this season, which ranks as the third-highest total in the league. The Falcons were expected to make a run at the Super Bowl after a few splashy moves in the offseason. However, they... more

Every Tuesday, Bucky Brooks will bring a scout's perspective to some of the hot topics around the league. Hue Jackson has turned Darren McFadden into the league's top runner. Fans of Adrian Peterson and Chris Johnson will take umbrage with that... more

Ralph Freso / Associated Press Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict has become an intimidating force for opponents. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and evaluations... more

Chuck Cook/US Presswire Devery Henderson, who has two 100-yard games this season, faces the No. 1-ranked Texans pass defense. Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the... more

Mark J. Rebilas/US Presswire Panthers rookie Cam Newton has been sacked eight times in two games, which ranks fourth in the NFL. Cam Newton has been absolutely incredible passing for 400-plus yards in back-to-back games to start his NFL... more

Every Tuesday, Bucky Brooks will bring a scout's perspective to some of the hot topics around the league. Is Ben Tate about to Wally Pipp Arian Foster? It is hard to believe a player one season removed from winning the rushing title could have a... more

Associated Press USC junior Matt Barkley has completed 69 percent of his passes in three games this season, all Trojans victories. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes and... more

Eric Hartline/US Presswire Casey Matthews will have to play big if the Eagles hope to slow down Atlanta's Michael Turner. Most of the attention going into games is on the stars, but lesser-known players often end up being the difference-makers.... more

Here are some of my observations after the first weekend of football. Patriots' two-headed monster at TE makes them tough to stop Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski have emerged as Tom Brady's most dangerous weapons behind their athleticism and... more

Tony Ding/Associated Press In his first two games this season, Notre Dame junior Michael Floyd has 25 catches for 313 yards and two touchdowns. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share... more

Some observations from the Green Bay Packers' 42-34 win Thursday night over the New Orleans Saints: » Aaron Rodgers is the best quarterback in the game. It is crazy to make that statement after only one game, but the seventh-year pro has picked up... more

Rafael Suanes / US Presswire Lee Evans has added a new dimension to the Ravens' offense with his speed and vertical ability. The preseason is certainly not a true indicator of regular-season performance, but it does reveal certain things... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire Kellen Moore is one of the best quarterbacks in college football, but his size could limit his pro potential. Each Monday throughout the college football season, NFL.com draft expert Bucky Brooks will share his notes... more

Steve Mitchell/US Presswire Stanford's Andrew Luck widely is considered to be the most NFL-ready quarterback in college right now. The first weekend of the college season sends NFL scouts across the country to evaluate the top prospects in... more

Here are my observations from watching the New Orleans Saints' 40-20 preseason win over the Oakland Raiders Sunday night: » Sean Payton has the Saints' offense rolling. The unit appeared in midseason form against the Raiders while amassing 514 yards... more

The third week of preseason represents a chance for starters play more. After watching nine games Saturday night, here are my observations: Matthew Stafford is lighting it up. He remains on fire after his impressive showing against the Patriots . He... more

The third weekend of preseason games represents a chance for starters to get off the sidelines and put on a show. These games provide a deeper look at how teams plan to use their stars and newly-signed veterans.  Three games in, one thing is for sure:... more

Here are some of my observations after watching the Thursday night's preseason games: » Cam Newton is a great athlete, but needs to make significant strides as a passer. There is no doubt the No.1 overall pick is one of the finest athletes to play... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire Curtis Painter has struggled in the preseason for the Colts, with no touchdowns and one interception. To get a true gauge on how a team or player will perform during the regular season, focus on Week 3 of the... more

Here are my observations after watching the Giants beat the Bears 41-13 on Monday night: » The loss of Terrell Thomas significantly weakens the Giants defense. Thomas was unquestionably the team's top cornerback and the team lacks the depth to... more

Chuck Cook / US Presswire Terrelle Pryor will need to develop as a pocket passer to find success as an NFL quarterback. Terrelle Pryor is headed to Oakland to play quarterback after being selected by the Raiders in the third round of the... more

The second weekend of preseason football isn't necessarily just a dress rehearsal. The game plans crafted by coaches aren't as comprehensive as the ones used during the regular season, but they provide us with a glimpse at which teams and players have the... more

David J. Phillip / Associated Press Matt Schaub and the Houston Texans' offense are already on a roll like it's October. The second weekend of preseason football isn't necessarily just a dress rehearsal. The game plans crafted by coaches... more

The second week of the preseason allows coaches to get a better feel for their respective squads due to the extended play of their starters. Teams usually keep their first-teamers on the field until halftime to give their units plenty of time to establish... more

The second week of the preseason serves as a dress rehearsal for most teams since game-planning comes into play. Coaches spend more time preparing for their opponents, and their play-calling is designed to exploit weaknesses gleaned from their research.... more

The Pittsburgh Steelers reached the Super Bowl last season, largely because of the play of an experienced defense. But as quickly as things can change in NFL, a strength can become a point of contention. Fast forward to 2011 and a defense that now... more

Keith Srakocic / Associated press Mike Tomlin (right) is doing all he can to make sure the Steelers don't take a step back in 2011. Bucky Brooks recently visited Steelers camp in Latrobe, Pa. Here's what he saw. 1. Mike Tomlin doesn't want... more

Bucky Brooks recently visited Cowboys training camp in Arlington, Texas. Here's what he saw. Observation deck 1. Jason Garrett is rebuilding the Cowboys in the mold of the franchise's championship teams under Tom Landry and Jimmy Johnson. The new... more

The third night of preseason football continued to provide answers to some of the looming questions that dominated the offseason. While one game will certainly not serve as a definitive evaluation on a player, it does provide an opportunity to make... more

The second night of preseason action didn't provide us with many competitive games, but it did offer up a few answers to some of the looming offseason questions. Some players who were expected to deliver big results showed they were capable of handling... more

AP/US Presswire From left to right: Philip Rivers, Michael Vick and Ryan Mallett all threw touchdown passes in their preseason debuts. The first night of preseason football turned into a showcase for quarterbacks around the league. Teams... more

Matt York/ Associated Press Kevin Kolb was Arizona's prize offseason acquisition after the team struggled to find consistency at QB in 2010. The first weekend of the preseason is upon us, and it's full of interesting matchups --... more

Frank Victores/US Presswire The physical advantage some teams have over opponents could be nullified with new NFL practice restrictions. The recently signed collective bargaining agreement means more than labor peace for the next 10 years.... more

Mike McCarn / Associated Press Drafting Cam Newton (left) and re-signing Charles Johnson (right) have strengthened a young roster with talent. The Carolina Panthers' strategy to dole out big money to retain several of their free agents --... more

Kirby Lee / US Presswire Raiders offensive coordinator Al Saunders could very well elevate Jason Campbell to the next level. This is the year Jason Campbell becomes a franchise quarterback. While that statement will sound outlandish to... more

Eric Risberg / Associated Press First-year Raiders coach Hue Jackson is bringing a fundamentals-first approach to Raiders camp. Bucky Brooks recently visited Raiders camp in Napa, Calif. Here's what he saw. Observation deck 1. There is a buzz... more

Paul Sakuma/AP Quarterback Alex Smith went 3-7 as a starter in 2010 and is 19-31 overall in five seasons with the 49ers. Bucky Brooks recently visited 49ers camp in Santa Clara, Calif. Here's what he saw. Observation Deck 1. The 49ers look... more

Jeff Chiu / Associated Press Part of Jim Harbaugh's focus in his first year is grooming rookie QB Colin Kaepernick. SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The culture is changing in San Francisco under Jim Harbaugh. The quagmire of dysfunction that existed... more

Charles Rex Arbogast/ AP After Jay Cutler was sacked 52 times in 2010, improving the offensive line was a top concern for the Bears. Nobody was perfect in 2010, even the defending Super Bowl champion Packers. So how did teams improve... more

Andrew Mills/The Star-Ledger/US Presswire The Patriots' pass defense got shredded by the Jets' Santonio Holmes and other receivers last season. Nobody was perfect in 2010, even the defending AFC champion Steelers. So how did teams improve... more

The Eagles already had one of the best offenses in the league, but this offseason has allowed them to add to their embarrassment of riches. The collection of talent will soon make opponents realize this is the most explosive offense assembled in recent... more

The New York Giants have given Osi Umenyiora permission to seek a trade , but is there a market for a 29-year-old pass rusher coming off a season in which he recorded 11.5 sacks and 10 forced fumbles? On the surface, there would appear to be a host of... more

The Indianapolis Colts paid big money to keep Peyton Manning, but the move was necessary to keep the team's title hopes afloat over the next few years. Debate: Does deal really help Colts? Our experts wonder if Peyton Manning 's new deal can allow... more

AP (From left to right) Plaxico Burress, Randy Moss and Braylon Edwards are all still available on the free agent market. Teams in need of a play-making wide receiver are weighing their options between Braylon Edwards, Randy Moss and Plaxico... more

Offensive coordinators around the NFL better hope Nnamdi Asomugha lands in either Houston or San Francisco, and not in New York with the Jets. The potential pairing with Darrelle Revis would make Rex Ryan's defense impenetrable and set the table for the... more

Tim Heitman/US Presswire Vince Young left Tennessee on a sour note, but the embattled QB could be a sweet steal for the right team. If it's true that one man's trash is another man's treasure, then there are plenty of gems suddenly available... more

AP After letting Matt Hasselbeck walk, the Seahawks will turn to Charlie Whitehurst or Tarvaris Jackson at quarterback. Has Pete Carroll lost his mind? That's the only explanation for the Seattle coach's belief that Charlie Whitehurst or... more

The glitz and glamour of free agency typically casts the spotlight on a few marquee names, but quality teams do a great job of identifying under-the-radar talents on the open market. Let's take a look at 10 unheralded players poised to make an impact.... more

Brett Favre should make another comeback. That's right. The quarterback, who's coming off the worst season of his illustrious NFL career, should grab the pads to make one final run at a Super Bowl. And he should do it with the Philadelphia Eagles.... more

US Presswire Randy Moss bounced around last season and, at 34, there's doubt about how much he has left to offer. The frenzied nature of free agency after the lockout is going to lead to several mistakes. Teams will rush to overpay for some... more

The loss of offseason work due to the lockout will challenge the planning and preparation of scouts and coaches, but teams with bulletproof blueprints and established rosters will enjoy a sizable advantage over their opponents when the regular season... more

In a typical year, the offseason is viewed as the time for teams to find answers to their quarterback questions. This year, however, the lockout has prevented several teams from properly assessing and addressing their respective situations. With the end... more

The lockout is set to end and the ensuing free agent frenzy will be unlike anything we have seen. While teams and players have diligently studied available options throughout the offseason, the pressure of nabbing the right guy -- and players choosing... more

If the Cardinals successfully pry Kevin Kolb from the Eagles, don't immediately pencil in Arizona as NFC West champions. When you consider Kolb's inexperience (seven career starts) and potential learning curve transitioning into Ken Whisenhunt's... more

Cary Edmondson/US Presswire Michael Crabtree needs to perform on a weekly basis if the 49ers are to go where they want to in 2011. Step your game up! That's what San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh should tell No. 1 receiver Michael... more

The Cowboys need a leader. That's the biggest issue on a franchise that boasts a roster that is the envy of the league. While everyone points to the Cowboys' porous secondary or their leaky offensive line for why the team underachieved a season ago, the... more

If John Fox is sticking to his preference of wanting a "gamer"  as his starting quarterback, then the decision over who should open the regular season under center for the Denver Broncos is a no-brainer. The answer is Tim Tebow. That's right. The... more

Matthew Emmons / US Presswire Michael Vick transformed himself from glorified third running back to legit pocket passer in 2010. Can he do it again? That's the question defensive coordinators around the league are asking as they ponder... more

Jonathan Brownfield / US Presswire Peyton Hillis could be poised for another huge season thanks to new coach Pat Shurmur. Peyton Hillis is not a one-year wonder. He is not a flash in the pan or a byproduct of being a star on a bad team.... more

Don Heupel / Associated Press Once a dominant force for the Chargers, Shawne Merriman has yet to appear in a game for the Bills. He's done. That's what scouts around the league are saying about linebacker Shawne Merriman after watching... more

Kerry Collins' surprising retirement Thursday will force the Tennessee Titans to alter their plans at quarterback. The team originally wanted to slowly groom Jake Locker , the eighth overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft , until he was ready to play, but... more

Reggie Wayne or Robert Mathis? With both players entering the final year of their contracts, that's the question Colts president Bill Polian is facing as he attempts to decide which veteran will give Indianapolis the best opportunity to make a sustained... more

Nnamdi Asomugha arguably is the best cornerback in the game, but most teams would be wise not to break the bank for his services when he hits the open market. Not that Asomugha isn't worthy of commanding top dollar as a shutdown corner, but there are... more

This is the year that Chad Henne blossoms into a franchise quarterback. At least that's what Miami Dolphins coach Tony Sparano hopes as he heads into a make-or-break season with Henne penciled in as his starting signal-caller. There were high... more

John Munson/US Presswire Tom Brady has had many reasons to celebrate during 11 NFL seasons. We've finally reached the conclusion of the NFL Network's "The Top 100: Players of 2011" series, as well as the end of my own list of the league's best... more

AP Robert Ayers, Andre Smith, Larry English and Aaron Maybin were top-20 picks who have failed to produce. It's now or never. That's what scouts across the league are saying about several members of the 2009 draft class. As a general rule,... more

Pay the man! That's my advice to the Tennessee Titans as star running back Chris Johnson contemplates a holdout prior to the 2011 season in an effort to land a new contract. It takes three years to figure out if a player can play in the NFL, and... more

Don't believe the hype. Even though Aaron Rodgers has put together an impressive résumé that includes a Super Bowl title and an MVP award, he is not in the same class with Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees. In fact, he might not even be worthy... more

David Stluka / Associated Press Drew Brees' NFL career is highlighted by an MVP performance in Super Bowl XLIV. Just like the NFL Network's "The Top 100: Players of 2011" has attracted a lot of attention for the positioning of some of the... more

Mike Groll / Associated Press C.J. Spiller did not measure up to the hype that comes with being a ninth overall draft pick. NFL players make the biggest jump in their development from their first to second year in the league. Coaches and... more

Paul Jasienski / Associated Press Osi Umenyiora might put up big sack numbers, but his skill set isn't complete. Save the drama. That's what the New York Giants should tell Osi Umenyiora as he clamors for a lucrative contract extension.... more

David Drapkin / Associated Press Tiki Barber rushed for 1,000 or more yards in six of his final seven NFL seasons. Can a 36-year-old running back coming off a four-year layoff make a significant impact upon his return to the NFL? Yes.... more

As the NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2011" nears the top 20, the debate rages on about which players are the best at their respective positions. Last week, the conversation focused on Ray Lewis' ranking among the 31-40 best players in the game . As... more

Is it over? That's the question that comes to mind when viewing Vince Young's career prospects. Fueled by growing concerns about his character, work ethic and leadership ability, the Tennessee Titans are set to release or trade the sixth-year... more

Sharon Ellman / Associated Press Tony Romo's added dimension of athleticism makes him dangerous to defend. Hands down, the Dallas Cowboys have the best passing offense in the NFC East. In a division that features four of the league's top... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks took questions from fans during his weekly chat on NFL.com. Even though he tackles the best questions during the chat, sometimes he feels the need to expand on some of his answers. Is Joe Flacco going to be the "franchise... more

Brett Davis / US Presswire Arian Foster went from obscurity to being considered one the NFL's top players after his dynamic 2010 campaign. As NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2011" heads into the top 30 (Sunday, at 8 p.m. ET.), the debates... more

David Butler II / US Presswire It was only one game, but Matt Flynn's performance in New England might have sealed his fate as a future starter. In a league that is predicated on the performance of quarterbacks, scouts and coaches are always... more

Greg Bartman / US Presswire Terrelle Pryor has several hurdles to leap over before he's ready to play in the NFL. Editor's note: This article was published in June, two months before Terrelle Pryor was ruled eligible for the supplemental... more

While hindsight is always 20/20, I wonder if scouts and coaches around the league would adjust their 2009 pre-draft quarterback rankings after watching Josh Freeman blossom into a star. Freeman has exceeded expectations and developed into a... more

Denny Medley / US Presswire Jamaal Charles finished second in the NFL with a career-high 1,467 yards rushing in 2010. The NFL Network's fantastic "Top 100 Players of 2011" series has sent my mind racing about the possibilities of putting... more

Once upon a time, a list that included Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, Chad Ochocinco and Plaxico Burress would look like the top nominees on a Pro Bowl ballot. Times have changed, and the veteran quartet is looking for one last hurrah. On the... more

Out with the old, in with the new? That's what appears to be happening in Cincinnati. Carson Palmer is holding firm to his trade-me-or-retire stance and the Bengals drafted Andy Dalton with that in mind. Even if Palmer opted to return, he's... more

Plaxico Burress is due to be released from prison on June 6, and the league is buzzing about his possible destination when the free-agency period commences. While it would seem a two-year layoff and questions about Burress' age (33), character... more

Rob Grabowski / US Presswire Sam Shields had two interceptions in the NFC Championship, including the game-clincher. Each year, we see a few unheralded players grab the spotlight with their surprisingly spectacular play. While some have... more

The Redskins opened up a can of worms when they didn't take a quarterback in the draft and then coach Mike Shanahan spoke highly of the unknown John Beck . Having so much faith in Beck, who has only four career starts under his belt, made many... more

Kathy Willens / Associated Press Santonio Holmes' knack for coming up with the big play in crunch time would make him valuable to any offense. NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks solicited questions from fans on the NFL's Facebook page this week.... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks solicited questions from fans on the NFL's Facebook page this week. After reviewing the submissions, he tackles the posts that grabbed his attention. What kind of impact will  Nick Fairley make next to Ndamukong Suh?... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks solicited questions from fans on the NFL's Facebook page this week. After reviewing the submissions, he tackles the posts that grabbed his attention. What new (and possible rookie) coaches are you looking forward to seeing... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks solicited questions from fans on the NFL's Facebook page this week. After reviewing the submissions, he tackles the posts that grabbed his attention. Should the Panthers open the 2011 season with Cam Newton as the starting... more

Beauty often rests in the eye of the beholder, but new coach Jim Harbaugh apparently sees something in Alex Smith that 49ers fans have missed over the past six years. On the surface, keeping Smith looks like a questionable move by a franchise... more

As hard as it is for coaches and scouts to admit their mistakes, the Saints seemingly acknowledged their error in expecting Reggie Bush to become a featured back by trading back into the first round to draft Mark Ingram . Although coach Sean... more

The Arizona Cardinals are only a quarterback away from reclaiming their lofty perch atop the NFC West. While most expected the team to address their biggest issue in the NFL draft, coach Ken Whisenhunt has seemingly set his sights on a trio of veterans... more

The Arizona Cardinals are only a quarterback away from reclaiming their lofty perch atop the NFC West. While most expected the team to address their biggest issue in the NFL draft, coach Ken Whisenhunt has seemingly set his sights on a trio of... more

Count me as one of the many surprised by Wade Phillips' decision to shift two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Mario Williams to outside linebacker in the Texans' new 3-4 defensive scheme. Although I've been around the league long enough to understand that... more

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Charles Cherney / Associated Press Gabe Carimi (with offensive line coach Mike Tice) should help fortify a porous Bears front line. NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks recently handed out grades for each team for the 2011 NFL Draft. Here... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks recently handed out grades for each team for the 2011 NFL Draft. Here are the teams that were at the top of the class, scoring higher marks than their peers for overall draft hauls. Patriots' draft picks Rd Sel.... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Broncos' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 2 Von Miller... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Ravens' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 27 Jimmy Smith... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Falcons' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 6 Julio Jones... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Texans' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 11 J.J. Watt... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Cowboys' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 9 Tyron Smith... more

Andrew Weber / US Presswire Getting Ryan Mallett in the third round was among the picks that helped the Pats earn praise for their draft. NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2011 NFL Draft .... more

The last two drafts have given us Matthew Stafford and Sam Bradford, quarterbacks who were clear No. 1 overall choices. This year, there is no clear-cut No. 1, but there are so many teams desperate for a franchise-saving QB that some team -- or a... more

When I started working as a scout for the Seattle Seahawks in 2000, I had a memorable conversation with veteran secondary coach Dick Roach about what to look for when evaluating safeties. He started off by emphasizing the importance of football... more

I've long believed that cornerbacks are the best athletes in pro football. Although that statement would appear to be self-serving based on my brief career as a nickel corner, the premise actually arises from watching several of the game's best master... more

As a scout, you often compare prospects against current and former pros to provide coaches with perspective on their potential. Although these visual clues don't always bear out, they are an essential part of the scouting process. When looking at... more

I wrote earlier this week about how the evolution of the NFL passing game has prompted defensive coordinators to build their units around dynamic edge rushers in an attempt to impact opposing quarterbacks . Although it is true that the presence of one... more

The NFL's evolution into a passing league has altered the way that defensive coaches approach the draft. Rather than build their units under the premise of being strong in the middle, teams place greater emphasis on the edges in an attempt to impact... more

I will be the first to admit that evaluating prospects remains an inexact science. Although scouts spend countless hours in the film room poring over tape, you still can miss out on all-star caliber prospects despite having access to all the empirical... more

As the NFL continues to evolve into a passing league, the presence of a franchise-caliber offensive tackle has become a priority for every team. Teams are searching for stellar pass protectors on the edges capable of keeping rushers away from the... more

As a former NFL receiver and scout, I have a tendency to scrutinize prospective pass-catchers even more. The transition from college to the pros is difficult, and the successful players possess a core set of traits that translate well to the next level.... more

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From my experiences as a player and scout, I have learned that elite running backs come in all sizes, shapes and styles. Although most teams would prefer the big, bruising back with explosive speed and big-play ability in the mold of Adrian Peterson ,... more

After spending 12 years in the NFL as a player and scout, I've learned that the evaluation of the quarterbacks is the most difficult of all positions. The position demands a unique set of mental and physical skills that are sometimes difficult to assess... more

Joshua S. Kelly / US Presswire Da'Quan Bowers had a monster 2010 season, but questions linger about his health and lack of previous production. The most difficult part of evaluating prospects for the draft is forecasting their future... more

The NFL is driven by the play of quarterbacks, and talent evaluators are always searching for franchise players. The early focus of this year's draft has been the ongoing battle between Missouri's Blaine Gabbert and Auburn's Cam Newton as the possible... more

Sean Gardner / Associated Press If selected No. 1 in the draft, Patrick Peterson would be the first cornerback ever selected in that spot. Each week, I field a lot of interesting questions during my weekly chat , but I'm unable to answer all... more

As scouts and coaches debate the proper order of prospects at a position, the conversation often turns into a discussion regarding a player's production vs. his potential. A player's production over the course of his collegiate career... more

Andrew Weber / US Presswire Ryan Mallett's stats in a pro-style offense give him first-round potential, but off-field issues could hurt his stock. NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks, a former scout for the Seattle Seahawks and Carolina Panthers, is... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks, a former scout for the Seattle Seahawks and Carolina Panthers, is no stranger to the types of discussions taking place within team facilities in the weeks leading up to the NFL Draft. This is the first in a weekly series of... more

Now that we've reached the middle of the pro day season, it's a great time to unveil my first mock draft. Although teams are still in the early stages of setting their respective draft boards, the results of the NFL Scouting Combine, medical evaluations... more

Alix Drawec / NFL Wisconsin's Gabe Carimi is the self-proclaimed top tackle prospect in the 2011 draft. Football has always been won or lost in the trenches, so it is essential for contenders to stock their rosters full of big, physical... more

Darron Cummings / Associated Press Patrick Peterson is vying to be the first cornerback ever selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft. With the league becoming more passing-oriented, teams are looking for impact defenders capable of altering... more

Ben Liebenberg / NFL Given that he worked out with a fractured foot, Julio Jones performed admirably at the combine. As more teams turn to the passing game as the primary means for moving the ball, the need for acquiring pass catchers has... more

Ben Liebenberg / NFL.com Von Miller came to the combine as a top-rated prospect, and his work in Indianapolis only enhanced his stock. This year's draft class lacks depth at linebacker, but the talent at the top is as good as we have seen in... more

Brian Spurlock / US Presswire After sitting out the 2010 season due to a suspension, Robert Quinn was a bit rusty at the combine. The defensive line figures to dominate the early stages of the draft with as least 10 players carrying... more

Brian Spurlock / US Presswire Mark Ingram entered the combine as the top back and did enough to leave Indy with that distinction. This year's running back class isn't regarded as the deepest or most talented, but the NFL Scouting Combine... more

Brian Spurlock / US Presswire Despite not throwing at the combine, Blaine Gabbert still managed to impress scouts in Indianapolis. The NFL Scouting Combine represented an opportunity for a closely graded group of quarterbacks to separate... more

Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press Prince Amukamara proved he's fast enough to play corner in the NFL with his impressive effort at the combine. The final day of the NFL Scouting Combine provided Nebraska corner Prince Amukamara with an... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- After the offensive players took center stage at the NFL Scouting Combine over the weekend, Monday provided the defensive linemen and linebackers with a chance to boost their value. One of the prospects building a case to move up is... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The second day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided plenty of opportunities for quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs to boost their value. The emphasis on the 40-yard dash appears to make the rest of the... more

INDIANAPOLIS -- The first day of workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine provided plenty of opportunities for offensive linemen and tight ends to boost their value in the eyes of evaluators. The emphasis on the 40-yard dash appears to make the rest of the... more

The NFL's transformation into a passing league has thrust defensive backs into the limelight. Defensive coordinators are desperate for shutdown corners and playmaking safeties. This year's class could appease some of the teams searching for... more

Linebackers have grown in prominence in recent years thanks to the expansion of the 3-4 defense around the league. Teams are looking for versatility from the position now more than ever. Linebackers that can rush the passer and drop into coverage are... more

From occupying multiple blockers to creating room for fast-flowing linebackers to generating a pass rush, the line is the most pivotal part of a defense. Given the importance of winning the line of scrimmage, coaches and scouts are scouring for... more

In the NFL, games are often won or lost up front, so identifying dominant offensive linemen is a priority for general managers, scouts and coaches. Offensive tackle is the marquee position, with left tackles valued at a premium. Teams are willing to... more

The NFL's transformation into a passing league has thrust pass-catchers into prominence over the past few seasons. Teams have increasingly relied on spread formations to exploit aggressive defenses, while also taking advantage of the favorable rules for... more

The NFL has quietly shifted away from the featured runner to a league that utilizes committee backfields that share the workload. The use of multiple backs has changed the way that scouts evaluate the position. Rather than search for the durable... more

The 2011 quarterback class features several intriguing possibilities, but lacks a definitive franchise player. Although Blaine Gabbert, Cam Newton, Jake Locker and Ryan Mallett are possible first-round hopefuls, the leader of the pack has yet to be... more

SAN DIEGO -- Cam Newton 's private workout in front of a media contingent was absolutely sensational. Blog: Questions about Cam NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock says any questions surrounding Cam Newton's transition to the NFL aren't about his... more

Matthew Emmons / US Presswire Despite tremendous skills, scouts have concerns over Nick Fairley's salty on-field demeanor. With the start of the NFL Scouting Combine only two weeks away, scouts and coaches are in the midst of intense... more

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Defense wins championships. Proponents of offensive football will object to that sentiment, but the old adage continues to ring true when you watch games like Super Bowl XLV unfold. The Packers defeated the Steelers, 31-25, Sunday... more

In every Super Bowl there is an unheralded guy who plays a critical role in the outcome of the game. This X-factor, as we like to call them, could be one of the team's key starters, or it might be a backup player who rises to the occasion in a critical... more

A breakdown of Super Bowl XLV between the Steelers and Packers: Ben Roethlisberger continues to live up to his reputation as one of the NFL's top clutch players. Although his game is a little unconventional for a quarterback, he finds a way to... more

DALLAS -- Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers has probably spent countless hours in the film room poring over tape of the Pittsburgh Steelers in search of a solution for their dynamic offense. Although Capers likely focused his efforts on their... more

DALLAS -- Championship teams are driven by the play of their quarterback. From Joe Montana to Drew Brees, the list of Super Bowl winning quarterbacks features some of the position's top playmakers. It is often their sensational play down the... more

Dave Martin / Associated Press LB Von Miller put up monster numbers at Texas A&M and has only solidified his draft worth at the Senior Bowl. MOBILE, Ala. -- The bulk of the work has been completed at the Senior Bowl with the conclusion of... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- Here are my observations from Day 3 at the Senior Bowl: » Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan is the real deal as a pass rusher. He comes off the edge with an exceptional first step, and has the capability to turn speed into power on bull rushes.... more

Alix Drawec / NFL Von Miller could make a 3-4 base defensive team very happy at draft time. Here are some of my observations from the second day of workouts at the Senior Bowl: Senior Bowl on NFL Network: On Saturday, Jan. 29, top... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- The Senior Bowl is the marquee event of the college all-star bowl circuit, and scouts have descended upon Mobile in droves to see a deep and talented roster of top prospects display their skills this week. Senior Bowl on NFL... more

The beginning of the college all-star game circuit signifies the second phase of the evaluation process, but draft boards across the league have already started to take shape with the official release of the underclassmen list this week. While most... more

Mark Zerof / US Presswire Georgia's Akeem Dent has been the top linebacker at practice, ahead of Saturday's East-West Shrine Game. ORLANDO, Fla. -- The East-West Shrine Game practices have just about come to a close for the week, but several... more

ORLANDO, Fla. -- The East-West Shrine Game's practices have been under way for the past three days, and scouts are starting to make solid assessments on the players in attendance. While these instant evaluations aren't binding, they serve as a... more

The college all-star game circuit provides small-school prospects with opportunities to display their talents on a big stage. Their performances in these games are critical in their overall evaluations because scouts finally get to see these... more

In the NFL, it is frequently noted that you must have a franchise quarterback to make a serious run at the title. While there have been a few notable exceptions, a look at the list of Super Bowl winners features some of the game's best quarterbacks.... more

Bob Donnan / US Presswire Marvin Austin has flashed talent when he's been on the field, but will need to prove he can stay out of trouble. ORLANDO, Fla. -- The East-West Shrine Game has always been a proving ground for NFL prospects, and this... more

When the Seattle Seahawks entered the playoffs with a losing record, most expected Pete Carroll's troops be a one-and-done participant in the postseason. The team won only three of its final 10 regular-season games and looked like a flyweight heading... more

In the NFL, the difference between winning and losing is often a matter of ego. Coaches and players must be willing to sacrifice their individual agendas for the greater good of the team. As a player, this means playing in a selfless manner that... more

One of the fascinating aspects of playoff football is the chess match between play-callers. The subtle adjustments and tactics by coordinators often determine games, and those moves are particularly pivotal in rematches. In the wild-card game between... more

Gail Burton / Associated Press Ray Rice has been a part of a startling late-season offensive transformation in Baltimore. When the Baltimore Ravens substantially upgraded their offensive lineup with the additions of Anquan Boldin, Donte'... more

Elaine Thompson / Associated Press Charlie Whitehurst's performance on Sunday might determine who might win the NFC West title. When the Seattle Seahawks made the trade to acquire Charlie Whitehurst, many viewed the move as Pete Carroll... more

A breakdown of Sunday's NFC North showdown between the Bears and Packers: Jay Cutler has played exceptionally well while guiding the Bears to seven wins in their past eight games. He has tossed 16 touchdowns with only seven interceptions during... more

Orlin Wagner / Associated Press Matt Cassel's dramatically improved play is a big reason for the Chiefs' run to the postseason. If you're looking for a darkhorse to emerge out of the AFC, you might want to cast your eyes on the Kansas City... more

Alix Drawec / NFL Once thought of as a top QB prospect, Jake Locker's pro prospects have been hurt by a dismal 2010 season. The college bowl game season is under way, and scouts are jet-setting across the country trying to get one last look... more

Charlie Neibergall / Associated Press Iowa's Adrian Clayborn could be terrorizing NFL quarterbacks next season. Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa: Talented edge rusher with good athleticism; inconsistent motor, but has the potential to dominate when... more

A breakdown of Sunday's pivotal late-season showdown between the Giants and Packers at legendary Lambeau Field: Eli Manning has been maddeningly inconsistent for most of the year. While he ranks among league leaders with 28 touchdowns, his 25... more

As a scout, you look forward to rookies stepping on the field for the first time to see if they live up to the hype. No draft pick received more attention heading into the season than Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow. While the first-round pick was used... more

It's funny how quickly things change in the NFL. A few weeks ago, the New York Jets were widely hailed as the team to beat in the AFC, but consecutive losses to the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins have cast serious doubts about their legitimacy... more

For those of you who have anointed the Falcons, Eagles or Giants as the team to beat in the NFC, you might want to consult with the New Orleans Saints before giving away the crown. The defending Super Bowl champions have quietly found their stride... more

Smart. Fast. Physical. Coaches across the league often utter those words when describing their ideal vision for their respective squads, but few teams embody that mantra like the Atlanta Falcons. The Dirty Birds have soared to the top of the NFC by... more

A breakdown of Sunday's inter-conference showdown between the Patriots and Bears: Tom Brady is playing like the league MVP while directing the Patriots' top-ranked offense. Though the unit has undergone a schematic transformation since Randy... more

Joe Howell / Associated Press Maurice Jones-Drew hit the century mark rushing for the fifth straight game to help keep the Jaguars in first place. After watching the Jacksonville Jaguars fail to reach the playoffs the past two years, coach... more

If you haven't been paying attention to the Kansas City Chiefs, then you are missing out on the emergence of one the league's great receivers. Dwayne Bowe is in the midst of a sensational streak, which has pushed him into rarefied air. He has a... more

It seems like déjà vu in San Diego with the Chargers making another late-season surge to climb back into contention. While most have attributed the team's turnaround to the MVP-caliber performance of Philip Rivers, defensive coordinator Ron Rivera... more

Michael Perez / Associated Press Michael Vick is hard to stop, but the Giants put more pressure than most on the elusive quarterback. After watching the Giants seemingly slow down the Eagles' high-powered attack, defensive coordinators... more

Paul Sakuma / Associated Press Since becoming the 49ers' starting QB, Troy Smith has added an explosive dimension to the offense. I don't know if the San Francisco 49ers can win the NFC West after an 0-5 start, but the insertion of Troy Smith... more

What if? That's the question Cowboys fans are surely asking after watching their team dismantle the New York Giants in Jason Garrett's debut. A team mired in the NFC East cellar finally looked like the championship contender that many expected prior... more

Tony Sparano's decision to pull the plug on the Chad Henne era might seem a bit premature, but the insertion of Chad Pennington was needed to reverse the Dolphins' offensive fortunes. Although Henne flashed immense potential during his 21-game run as... more

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks provides a breakdown of Thursday night's game between the Ravens and Falcons on NFL Network. Joe Flacco is on the verge of becoming an elite quarterback in only his third season. As a deadly accurate thrower with... more

While Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Drew Brees typically dominate the discussion for the league's highest individual honor, the name that should be at the top of the MVP list is Philip Rivers. Of course, some would quickly dismiss Rivers from the... more

If you're looking for a dark horse to emerge as an AFC title contender, then you should cast your lot with the Tennessee Titans after their acquisition of Randy Moss this week. Moss adds an explosive element to an offense that already featured two of... more

Can you imagine Bill Belichick sitting Tom Brady with the game on the line? How about Jim Caldwell benching Peyton Manning in favor of Curtis Painter for a two-minute drill? I'm sure that's hard for anyone to imagine. Yet, that's the decision that... more

It has become an annual rite of passage to include Peyton Manning in the Most Valuable Player conversation, but this season the four-time winner will need to play at that level to keep the Colts afloat amid a host of injuries that could derail one of the... more

It appears Ben Roethlisberger has quickly shaken off the rust following a four-game suspension and is performing at a high level. Roethlisberger has guided his team to two victories, and has directed an offense that was pedestrian in his absence. Big... more

Every week, teams take to the field operating under the premise that on any given Sunday anything is possible, but the growing parity in the NFL is making the mantra a reality. Just take a look at the scores, and it is apparent that the margin between... more

The loss of a Hall of Fame-caliber player is not supposed to make a team better, but a quick look at the film of the New England Patriots' overtime win against the Baltimore Ravens is making me reconsider that opinion. Although trading Randy Moss... more

Paul Sancya / Associated Press Steve Spagnuolo and Sam Bradford are being recognized for helping the Rams become a legit NFC West contender. Worst to first? As crazy as that thought might have seemed for the St. Louis Rams prior to the... more

The return of Ben Roethlisberger has been touted around the league as the move that pushes the Steelers to the top of the title contenders. However, the way the Steelers incorporate him into a drastically altered offense could determine how far the team... more

Seth Wenig / Associated Press The Jets are known for their top-notch defense, but Mark Sanchez is playing his way into the MVP conversation. In a season where the league has been as topsy-turvy as ever, it has become increasingly difficult... more

It might seem odd that an offense littered with Pro Bowl players would lack direction, but it is obvious after the first quarter of the season that the Minnesota Vikings are suffering from an identity crisis. While Brad Childress continues to insist the... more

Joe Howell / Associated Press Kyle Orton has shaken his game-manger reputation this season, and is leading the league in passing. In Denver, the legend of John Elway casts a large shadow over the quarterback position. The Hall of Famer... more

Paul Spinelli / Associated Press Though his hard-nosed mentality has worked before, Tom Coughlin might be losing his team with it this season. It has been often stated that a team takes on the personality of its coach. But after watching... more

After watching his Kansas City Chiefs stumble to a 4-12 mark behind a scattershot offense, coach Todd Haley entered the offseason intent on adding playmakers. While most would prefer big, dynamic players in those roles, the Chiefs have discovered that... more

We're only six quarters into the second act of The Michael Vick Experience, but the reviews of the sequel have already exceeded the buzz of the original. While many expected Vick to provide an electrifying reel of highlight plays as the Eagles'... more

If you're looking for an interesting chess match to observe, you should cast your eyes on the Monday night battle between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. Mike Martz and Dom Capers will match wits on the big stage, and the winner will have a... more

Tim Sharp / Associated Press The union of Jay Cutler, pictured, with Mike Martz has worked beautifully so far for the Bears. Lovie Smith spent most of the offseason urging his team to return to its Monster of the Midway roots, but the... more

There must be something in the water at the offices of the New England Patriots, because their trio of 30-something running backs has seemingly discovered a fountain of youth. Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk are defying conventional wisdom to... more

The NFL season is often viewed as a war of attrition, and two contenders are already dealing with injuries that threaten to ruin their postseason hopes. The New York Jets and Green Bay Packers just learned that Kris Jenkins and Ryan Grant are out for... more

Darrelle Revis' return has made the Jets' matchup with the Baltimore Ravens one of the most intriguing games to watch this season -- and it's only Week 1. Revis emerged as a dominant player in Rex Ryan's scheme a season ago, and his exceptional cover... more

The road to the Super Bowl is often littered with potholes that have the potential to derail championship seasons. We frequently hear coaches discuss how the loss of key personnel can prevent a team from fulfilling its promise, but legitimate... more

The Dallas Cowboys have been widely hailed as a contender, but a leaky offensive line is threatening to derail their chances. The unit has struggled mightily during the preseason, which has prevented one of the league's most explosive offenses from... more

Starting with these preseason predictions, Bucky Brooks will follow the top five candidates for the following awards on a weekly basis throughout the season: Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Offensive... more

Who says that the preseason doesn't matter? While many continue to debate the merits of games in August, it appears that more coaches are approaching these meaningless contests with a newfound urgency and focus. Coordinators are casting aside their... more

ANDERSON, Ind. -- Lost in the whirlwind of Peyton Manning's MVP season last year was the emergence of a defensive force in the AFC. Under the direction of new defensive coordinator Larry Coyer, the Indianapolis Colts quietly became one of the league's... more

Paul Sancya / Associated Press First-round pick Jahvid Best is the latest addition to an offense full of young talent in Detroit. ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Restore the Roar. That simple statement outlines the mission that motivates general... more

Morry Gash / Associated Press Donald Driver continues to be a dominant force at wide receiver, even at the age of 35. GREEN BAY, Wis. -- In Green Bay, the expectations seem to run a little higher than other destinations. The city... more

Nam Y. Huh / Associated Press If the Bears are going to make the playoffs, Tommie Harris and Julius Peppers must lead a defensive resurgence. BOURBONNAIS, Ill. -- What's in a nickname? In coach Lovie Smith's mind, the Bears' legendary... more

Darrelle Revis' ongoing holdout has squelched some of the optimism around the New York Jets, but fans shouldn't fret about the possibility of a season without the team's top defender. Although the absence of the league's best cover man would weaken a... more

The surprising news surrounding Brett Favre has cast a cloud over Minneapolis, but seeming departure doesn't mean that the Vikings are out of title contention. Sure, the three-time MVP's presence would boost the team's Super Bowl hopes. He's... more

Just because the NFL continues to trend toward platoon backfields that doesn't mean employing the system is easy for coaches. Plenty of teams will still use the preseason to determine the pecking order of their running back rotation and how to maximize... more

Associated Press The Bills could have one of the top backfields with (left to right) Marshawn Lynch, C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. Bills coach Chan Gailey is not a historian, but the formula he is using to try to revive a dormant franchise... more

By refusing to carry the shoulder pads of teammate Roy Williams and participating in a time-honored rookie ritual in the opening days of training camp, Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant created quite a stir in NFL circles. Although the act of defiance... more

Earlier in the offseason, we took a look at some of the most intriguing quarterback battles in the league. Since that point, several teams have chosen their respective field leaders. Pittsburgh tabbed Byron Leftwich to be their interim starter... more

Don't expect the NFL's season-long suspension of Johnny Jolly to derail the Green Bay Packers' championship hopes. Although Jolly was a critical piece of the team's top-ranked run defense last season, the Packers are well-positioned to deal with his... more

Greg Trott / Associated Press The Chargers have made the playoffs every year since Philip Rivers became the starter in 2006. While the NFL continues to celebrate the life and innovations of the late Don Coryell, the San Diego Chargers continue... more

Gail Burton / Associated Press With new weapons in the passing game, QB Joe Flacco is under pressure to take Baltimore's offense to a new level. In Baltimore, the mantra has always been "defense wins championships." The franchise captured... more

After watching a mass exodus of talent in Arizona, onlookers have questioned whether the Cardinals can win a third straight NFC West crown. This offseason, defensive stalwarts Karlos Dansby and Antrel Rolle signed with other teams and receiver Anquan... more

The more things change, the more they stay the same. At least that is what Colts coach Jim Caldwell is hoping after officially turning his offense over to Clyde Christensen. Indianapolis' new offensive coordinator got a promotion from his post as... more

Brian Garfinkel / Associated Press Defensive coordinator Sean McDermott will play a critical role if the Eagles are to make another playoff run. After watching the Eagles light up the scoreboard behind a high-powered aerial attack last... more

It's not a coincidence that stars are a prominent feature of the NFL Shield, because the best teams in the league are keyed by the performances of their star players. These stars are expected to deliver impact plays on a weekly basis, and their ability... more

The Miami Dolphins have been regarded as a throwback bunch in recent years due to their ability to bludgeon opponents behind an old-school offense that is reminiscent of their glory days of the 1970s. Given the outstanding success that the offense has... more

Pete Carroll learned several lessons during his decade away from the NFL, but the most important thing he discovered was the power that good players have on the outcome of games. Superior talent at Southern Cal helped Carroll win over 83 percent of the... more

There are a handful of veterans that are running for their lives this season, but opposing defenders are the least of their concerns. A host of backs are attempting to elude the dreadful clutches of Father Time in the twilight of their respective... more

Conventional wisdom suggests that defenses are built from front to back, but the Kansas Chiefs are attempting to revive their dismal defense by restoring the proud tradition of their secondary. From the Emmitt Thomas -led units of the late 1960's to the... more

The desire to build a champion is the priority for every coach, but the task is seemingly impossible without the right quarterback. In Carolina, John Fox is hitching his title hopes -- and his job security -- on unheralded signal-caller Matt... more

In the NFL, the difference between the contenders and pretenders often depends on quarterback play. The presence of a legitimate playmaker at the position typically guarantees that a team will challenge for a playoff spot. Last season, 10 of the... more

Brian Urlacher took exception to the critical comments recently issued by Hall of Famer Gale Sayers , but the former Bears great was simply pointing out the elephant in the room. The Bears have been one of the league's biggest disappointments over the... more

The bright lights of the Big Apple have cast an intense spotlight on the latest version of the Jets defense in New York. By contrast, it has left the defense of the New York Giants in the shadows. Start with the bodacious proclamations of Rex Ryan, then... more

After watching prolific passing attacks rule the roost in the NFC West for decades, observers should ready themselves for a dramatic change this season. Fueled by a desire to return to old-school football, the division is undergoing a transformation.... more

In the NFL, coaches spend the entire offseason emphasizing the importance of getting off to a quick start when the regular season opens, but the suspensions of three prominent players, as well as the pending bans of two others, will make that an arduous... more

Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press Ohio State DT Cameron Heyward, son of the late Craig "Ironhead" Heyward, is among 2011's top draft prospects. The draft is barely in the books, but scouts have already turned their focus to next year's... more

The NFL has long been regarded as a quarterback-driven league, and the 2009 regular season further provided proof that having a quality triggerman is essential to reaching the postseason. Of the top 10 passers in the league (according to passer... more

The much-anticipated release of JaMarcus Russell concludes a disappointing three-year run in Oakland that appeared doomed from the start. The former No. 1 overall pick was selected by Oakland against the reported wishes of then head coach Lane Kiffin,... more

The first weekend after the draft is one of the most anticipated events of the offseason for NFL scouts and coaches because the majority of teams host a minicamp for their rookies over a three-day period. Although this series of practices represent only... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Cowboys' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 24 Dez... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Patriots' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 27... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Texans' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 20... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Buccaneers' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 1 3... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Vikings' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 2 34 Chris Cook... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2010 NFL Draft . Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. Ravens' draft picks Rd Sel. # Player Pos. School 2 43 Sergio... more

» Brooks' mock drafts: 1.0 | 2.0 | 3.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 Draft week is here, and teams have narrowed their focus on the prospects who are the best fits for their respective teams. Through exhaustive film study and countless war room debates,... more

On the eve of the 2010 NFL Draft, scouts and coaches are still trying to sort out the order at the top of the draft board. This year's draft class features outstanding talent at several positions, and the depth at those respective positions fuels heated... more

The start of the 2010 NFL Draft is less than a week away, and most of the draft boards throughout the league are set. However, scouts and coaches are still busy conducting mock draft scenarios to determine where some of the players that best fit their... more

Editor's note: This story was first published in mid-April. With the Raiders' release on Thursday of quarterback JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft, the story has new relevance. Anyone in the NFL will tell you that it... more

The Brandon Marshall trade to the Miami Dolphins ups the ante in the AFC East. The move is the latest trade involving superstar receivers within the division, and it makes the competition tighter for the division title. Marshall, a two-time Pro Bowler... more

» Brooks' mock drafts: 1.0 | 2.0 | 3.0 | 4.0 With the draft only a week away, teams have started to pinpoint the players likely to be available at their respective spots. General managers and scouts are running through various draft... more

The pro day circuit has officially ended, and teams are putting finishing touches on their respective draft boards based on the information that has been gathered on the spring tour. This information includes medical evaluations, background... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the fourth of a four-day series, he examines... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the fourth of a four-day series, he examines... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the third of a four-day series, he examines the... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the third of a four-day series, he examines the... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the second of a four-day series, he examines... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the first of a four-day series, he examines the... more

Editor's note: Anyone in the NFL will tell you it takes three years to judge a draft. With that in mind, we asked analyst Bucky Brooks to take a look at how every NFL team fared over the last three years. In the first of a four-day series, he examines the... more

» Brooks' mock drafts: 1.0 | 2.0 | 3.0 The draft board is starting to crystallize with the conclusion of the pro days and individual workouts. Some players have solidified their spots in the first round with strong performances at their... more

The end of March typically signifies the conclusion of the pro day season and begins the final phase in the evaluation period. Scouts are heading back to their respective offices for meetings. The information they have gained from individual workouts... more

Michael Conroy / Associated Press Dorin Dickerson caught the eye of talent evaluators with a stellar performance at the combine. Scouts love the month of March because they get an opportunity to trek across the country in hopes of discovering... more

College pro days are coming to a close, but the evaluation process is not close to being done. Teams are scheduling visits and private workouts with the top prospects, and those one-on-one sessions could determine the fate of several draft... more

As the draft approaches, scouts and coaches are making the rounds to visit various college campuses for pro days. These workouts represent the final opportunity for some of these players to impress decision makers with their athleticism and overall... more

Phil Sandlin / Associated Press While Aaron Hernandez's off-field issues are a concern, his on-field abilities are intriguing to teams. The NFL Scouting Combine is the premier event of the scouting season, but scouts and coaches find immense... more

» Brooks' mock drafts: 1.0 | 2.0 The NFL Draft is reminiscent of a board game. An unforeseen move can lead to a domino effect for the rest of the first round. In sizing up the most recent transactions across the league, it appears that the... more

Scouts are traveling to pro days all over the country trying to gather the latest information on the draft's top prospects. Although 90 percent of the evaluation process is complete, a breakthrough at a workout, or a surprising discovery of some... more

The 2010 NFL Draft is a little over a month away, and scouts are putting the finishing touches on their draft boards based on information gathered at pro days. While several of the draft's top prospects still have workouts pending, the top of the board... more

Paul Battaglia / Associated Press Cal running back Jahvid Best might have the speed and burst to eclipse the 2,000-yard mark in the NFL. As we inch closer to the 2010 NFL Draft , scouts are starting to uncover answers to the hard questions... more

After the first three days of free agency, it is apparent that a handful of teams have given themselves tremendous flexibility heading into the draft. Although these franchises have been reconstructed on the premise of building through the draft, their... more

The 2010 NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, and scouts are closely grading the performances of more than 300 draft hopefuls that participated in the event. Although scouts readily acknowledge that the premier event of the scouting season is only a... more

The NFL Scouting Combine is the premier event of the evaluation season, but several prospects are inexplicably turning down an opportunity to show their talents before a massive scouting contingent convening in Indianapolis. Although the decision to... more

As the calendar reaches the middle of February, front-office executives from several teams are furiously putting together plans to deal with their quarterback quandaries. While some of those dilemmas involve the impending departures of legendary signal... more

» Previous mock drafts: 1.0 The NFL Scouting Combine is on the horizon, and front office executives are feverishly putting the finishing touches on their preliminary draft boards based on the performance of a few highly touted prospects at... more

» Good, bad and ugly for non-playoff teams: AFC | NFC Now that Super Bowl XLIV has determined a NFL champion, this is the perfect time to reflect on the good, bad and ugly moments of the 12 playoff teams' seasons. Teams are listed in the... more

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- Players have routinely proclaimed that the NFL is a "players' game," but after watching Super Bowl XLIV , it's clear that coaching makes the difference. The New Orleans Saints appeared overmatched for most of the opening 30... more

It happens almost every year. A relatively unknown player makes a play in the Super Bowl that turns out to be critical to his team's success. So who has a chance in Super Bowl XLIV to be this year's David Tyree (XLII), Deion Branch (XXXIX) or Dexter... more

The kicking game is often overlooked in pregame analysis, but this phase of the game could be the deciding factor in this matchup of explosive offenses. The hidden yardage gained in the field position battle will undoubtedly set up scoring... more

The presence of the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV has fueled speculation that the modern NFL game is all about offense. That statement would ring true during the initial analysis of this matchup, as the defensive... more

The hype surrounding Super Bowl XLIV has focused extensively on the offenses of the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints, as both sport prolific attacks capable of lighting up scoreboards. Given the offenses' penchant for dropping 40 points on... more

Part of the beauty of watching playoff football is observing the high-stakes chess match between opposing coaches. Savvy play-callers spend countless hours crafting creative game plans in order to effectively maneuver pieces around the board, and... more

For both of the participants in Super Bowl XLIV , their arrival in South Florida has been keyed by stellar performances from a handful of unsung playmakers. These X-factors emerged from their obscure roles as unheralded starters or reserves to provide... more

The 2010 Under Armour Senior Bowl has undoubtedly morphed into the Tim Tebow Show, as scouts, coaches and fans have seemingly spent the entire week debating the merits of the former Heisman Trophy winner. The intense scrutiny is part of playing the... more

Ben Liebenberg / NFL.com Rutgers cornerback Devin McCourty has earned the attention of NFL scouts. MOBILE, Ala. -- The fourth day of the 2010 Under Armour Senior Bowl (on NFL Network , 4 p.m. ET on Saturday) marks the last day of competitive... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- The third day of practices at the 2010 Under Armour Senior Bowl represents the most important workday in the minds of scouts. Players seem to have settled into the routine of playing in a new system under the direction of pro... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- The second day of Under Armour Senior Bowl practice typically brings about better play, as the players begin to shake off the anxiety of performing in front of a host of general managers, scouts and coaches. Although most evaluators are... more

MOBILE, Ala. -- The Senior Bowl has always ranked as the pinnacle of the All-Star game season in the minds of scouts, as hundreds of evaluators descend here to check out the top college seniors in action. Mayock's rankings Several accomplished... more

We've reached the championship round, and so far explosive offensive attacks have garnered most of the headlines. The Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts have been lauded for their stellar passing games, while the New York Jets... more

  Since I started playing football at 7, I've heard that big-time players make an impact in big games. While that sentiment continues to ring true as the postseason unfolds, it has been the surprising emergence of several unheralded players that has... more

The NFL officially released the names of the draft eligible underclassmen, and the landscape of the 2010 draft is starting to take shape. Teams are starting to identify which prospects potentially fill their most pressing needs, and are stacking... more

NFL.com Coming off strong performances, Felix Jones and Beanie Wells could again be difference-makers this weekend. The postseason is often where stars are born, and last week served as the coming-out party for a handful of unsung players.... more

NFL.com / Associated Press Shonn Greene, Ray Rice and Felix Jones have the Jets, Ravens and Cowboys winning with old-school football. Of the 10 4,000-yard passers in the regular season, seven guided their teams into the playoffs, a fact that... more

Greg Trott and David Stluka / Associated Press Ravens RB Willis McGahee (left) and Cardinals RB Chris "Beanie" Wells will be crucial during Wild Card Weekend. In middle school, we learned that "X" represents a variable whose value is unknown... more

Gary Vasquez/NFL.com For going 1-15, the Rams will have an opportunity to draft Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh with the No. 1 pick. » AFC good, bad and ugly The end of the season forces owners, front office executives and coaches to... more

Jim Mone / Associated Press The Vikings' Jared Allen (left) and Brian Robison converge on Giants QB Eli Manning. » Best of Week 17 | More photos Vikings 44, Giants 7 After sputtering on offense the past few weeks, the... more

James D Smith / Associated Press Miles Austin helped Dallas win the Week 9 matchup vs. Philadelphia with a 49-yard touchdown catch. If you're looking for a favorite to emerge in the NFC, look to the winner of the Dallas-Philadelphia showdown... more

Gerald Herbert / Associated Press Cadillac Williams rushed for 129 yards in the Buccaneers' shocking win in the Superdome. » Best of Week 16 | More photos Buccaneers 20, Saints 17 (OT) After losing their second consecutive... more

The race for the Most Valuable Player award has seemingly morphed into a two-horse race between Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, but when you poll league executives there is another quarterback worthy of inclusion. Philip Rivers has quietly enjoyed... more

Gene Puskar / Associated Press The Steelers' Mike Wallace scores the winning touchdown in front of the Packers' Josh Bell. » Best of Week 15 | More photos Steelers 37, Packers 36 The Steelers may have exposed a huge weakness... more

  If you had polled NFL executives at the beginning of the season about who they thought was the top running back in the NFL, Adrian Peterson would have been a unanimous choice. But now, the sensational season of Tennessee Titans running back Chris... more

For years, there have been many attempts at debunking the theory that defense wins championships, but the surprising paths taken by the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints this season to undefeated heights has provided little evidence to help move... more

Rob Carr / Associated Press Ravens receiver Demetrius Williams catches a pass in front of Lions cornerback Phillip Buchanon. » Best of Week 14 | More photos Ravens 48, Lions 3 The Ravens turned to the big play to run away... more

Are the New England Patriots still among the ranks of the NFL's elite? It's a question being bantered about in league circles. Consider the evidence: » For the first time in 50 games, the Patriots have suffered consecutive defeats, giving them three... more

Keith Srakocic / Associated Press Raiders receiver Todd Watkins attempts to make a reception in the end zone against the Steelers. » Best of Week 13 | More photos Raiders 27, Steelers 24 After watching Bruce Gradkowski... more

Phil Sandlin / Associated Press Tim Tebow will be on the big stage again Saturday when No. 1 Florida takes on No. 2 Alabama in the SEC title game. Big-time players play big in big games. I've been hearing that since I started playing... more

They say that Father Time catches up with every athlete. But watching 40-year-old Brett Favre enjoy one of the finest seasons of his career, it's apparent the venerable veteran has turned back the clock. Wilcots: Favre's impact Where Brett Favre... more

Bill Nichols / Associated Press The Colts' Pierre Garcon reaches out to make a touchdown catch against the Texans. » Best of Week 12 | More photos Colts 35, Texans 27 It seems like a weekly theme, but the defense is the key... more

Amy Sancetta / Associated Press With Aaron Kampman out, the Packers need rookie Clay Matthews to have an eye for getting after the quarterback. As the playoff race begins to heat up, several contenders are facing the prospect of playing... more

Greg Trott / Associated Press Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha takes the ball away from Bengals receiver Andre Caldwell on the last play of Oakland's upset of Cincinnati. » Best of Week 11 | More photos Raiders 20, Bengals 17... more

Associated Press Jordan Shipley's big-play ability has put him ahead of the pack among wide receiver prospects for the 2010 draft. As Steve Smith, Wes Welker and DeSean Jackson continue to light it up on Sundays, a growing number of scouts... more

After watching Matt Ryan toss two more interceptions in the Falcons' 28-19 loss to the Panthers on Sunday, league observers are starting to wonder if the 2008 Offensive Rookie of the Year is suffering from a sophomore slump. Ryan, who led the Falcons... more

Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press The Steelers' Heath Miller and the Bengals' Rey Maualuga clash at Heinz Field. » Best of Week 10 | More photos Bengals 18, Steelers 12 The Bengals' defense hasn't exactly flown under the... more

Donna McWilliam / Associated Press Texas QB Colt McCoy needs to step his game up as the season winds down, so his stock doesn't drop. As the calendar flips to the month of November, scouts across the NFL are beginning the arduous task of... more

The Dallas Cowboys' gradual ascension to the top of the NFC East has been largely credited to the effective play of Tony Romo and the offense. But it has actually been a defensive uprising that has keyed the improved performance in Big D. Led by the... more

Patrick Semansky / Associated Press Jake Delhomme fumbles as he is sacked by the Saints' Will Smith. » Best of Week 9 | More photos Saints 30, Panthers 20 After being stymied by two-deep coverage for a half, Drew Brees... more

What's wrong with the New York Giants' defense? That's the question being echoed around the league after the Giants played like midgets on the defensive side of the ball the last three weeks. The unit has surrendered 825 passing yards and 112 points in... more

Donna McWilliam / Associated Press Bobby Carpenter had one of three sacks on Matt Hasselbeck in the Cowboys' win over the Seahawks. » Best of Week 8 | More photos Cowboys 38, Seahawks 17 Tony Romo continues to take care of... more

Donna McWilliam / Associated Press TCU's Jerry Hughes stands tall among college football's top defensive end prospects. After watching a certain Elvis (the Denver Broncos' Elvis Dumervil) tear up the league this season, scouts are descending... more

Of all of the budding quarterback controversies garnering attention throughout the league, the most compelling drama might be taking place in Carolina, where Jake Delhomme is enduring a horrific season, and his poor play is killing the Panthers' chances... more

Ed Reinke / Associated Press Carson Palmer threw for five touchdowns in the Bengals' rout of the visiting Bears. » Best of Week 7 | More photos Bengals 45, Bears 10 Marvin Lewis' decision to retool the running game in the... more

Dave Weaver / Associated Press Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh could be the top defensive player chosen in the 2010 draft. During my time in the league as a scout, I had a defensive coordinator once tell me that the key to building a dominant... more

The soap opera-like drama unfolding in D.C with Jim Zorn has brought to light a complex issue that plagues offensive coordinators around the league. For all of the credit that coordinators get for their innovative scheming and creative play-calling, it... more

Jim Mone / Associated Press The Vikings' Cedric Griffin lunges at Ravens WR Derrick Mason in order to make the tackle. » Best of Week 6 | More photos Vikings 33, Ravens 31 The addition of Brett Favre is the biggest reason... more

Paul Jasienski / Associated Press The Dolphins' selection of Jake Long in 2008 helped the team pull off the worst-to-first turnaround. When general managers are quizzed about rebuilding a franchise most respond in terms that refer to the... more

The season is only five weeks old, but the murmurs are growing in Foxborough after watching the Patriots' high-powered offense struggle this season. A unit that was expected to light up scoreboards has been out of sync for most of the year, and the... more

Roddy White makes one of his eight receptions for 210 yards against the 49ers. (Paul Sakuma / Associated Press) » Best of Week 5 » More photos Falcons 45, 49ers 10 The Falcons' surprising offensive explosion... more

Ben Liebenberg / NFL.com USC's Taylor Mays could be the top overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft and the first safety ever drafted that high. Scouts leaving USC's campus are shaking their heads in amazement after viewing safety Taylor Mays'... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | ILB Does size really matter? That what scouts are pondering after taking a look at the cornerbacks from the 2009 draft class. With the league increasingly... more

The Broncos' defense held Cowboys RB Marion Barber to just 41 rushing yards. (Jack Dempsey / Associated Press) » Best of Week 4 » More photos Broncos 17, Cowboys 10 Denver's defense proved that it was for real... more

Associated Press Injuries to top QB prospects Sam Bradford and Tim Tebow could have repercussions in the 2010 NFL Draft. The 2010 NFL Draft is shaping up to be the "Year of the Quarterback", and the flood of signal-callers entering the league... more

The murmurs are growing in the Black Hole. Raiders fans are disenchanted with watching JaMarcus Russell struggle as the team's franchise quarterback. The former No. 1 overall pick has turned in three abysmal performances to open the season, and his play... more

Bryant Johnson aims high to snag a 21-yard TD reception in the Lions' first win since Dec. 23, 2007. (Paul Sancya / Associated Press) » Best of Week 3 » More photos Lions 19, Redskins 14 The Redskins' scattershot... more

M. Spencer Green / Associated Press Bears rookie WR Johnny Knox had six receptions for 70 yards and a TD against the Steelers in Week 2. As legions of football players harboring NFL dreams toil in relative anonymity at a host of college... more

It is only fitting that the opening of the NFL regular season coincides with the start of the school year, since the first few weeks of the season often teach us all that we need to know about the league's potential title contenders. The hopefuls that... more

Mark Humphrey / Associated Press With little to watch of Jermaine Gresham's senior season, scouts will turn to older tape, like his brilliant performance in the 2008 national championship game in which he caught two touchdowns. When Oklahoma... more

The loss of Brian Urlacher significantly impacts a defense that was expected to rank among the league's best units in 2009. The six-time Pro Bowler is unquestionably the heart and soul of the Bears defense, and his versatile skills shine in the... more

Drew Brees tied the Saints' single-game record for TD passes. (Bill Feig / Associated Press) » Best of Week 1 » More photos Saints 45, Lions 27 Detroit fails to find an answer for the Saints' explosive offense.... more

Ben Liebenberg / NFL.com Personnel evaluators are curious to see how USC's Taylor Mays performs against a talented Ohio State team. Blount's stock drops Punch will cost Oregon back: As NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell continues to enact... more

Jerry Glanville once coined a phrase regarding the NFL standing for "Not For Long," but even he would be surprised by the sudden dismissal of three offensive coordinators on the eve of the regular season. The Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and... more

Lynne Sladky / Associated Press Clemson's exoplosive RB C.J. Spiller has caught the eyes of NFL scouts due to his big-play ability. Scouts have identified the top prospects to monitor for next year's draft. Using a combination of game tape... more

NFL coaches are copycats by nature, so they recently have looked toward the college game to steal an innovation that's turning quarterbacks into stars. Fueled by the success of college powerhouses Florida, Texas, Ohio State and Oklahoma, pro teams are... more

Do big-time college quarterbacks make the best pro prospects? That's the question that has been debated in NFL front offices for years, as the league has seen countless hot-shot quarterbacks flameout as pros after enjoying stellar collegiate... more

After dramatically retooling their offense with a series of blockbuster moves during the offseason, the Eagles have made their biggest gamble to bolster the unit by signing Michael Vick on the night of their preseason opener. The Eagles agreed to a... more

Elaine Thompson / Associated Press Jim Mora talks to players as they run through a drill during Seahawks training camp. RENTON, Wash. -- Can the Seahawks go from worst to first? That's the question buzzing through Seattle after watching the... more

Paul Sakuma / Associated Press Tom Cable has brought an unorthodox approach to Raiders training camp. OAKLAND, Calif. -- The task before Tom Cable is magnanimous as he attempts to transform a franchise that has fallen on hard times since Super... more

It would be understandable if fans flash back to the 1980s and 1990s when watching the 49ers play this season. That's because the team is making every attempt to recapture its glorious past. As winners of five Super Bowl titles, the 49ers once were... more

SAN DIEGO -- Ask any member of the San Diego Chargers what their theme for the upcoming season is, and they will utter, "Super Bowl or bust." That's because a Super Bowl championship is the only thing missing for a franchise that has rung up many... more

Paul Sakuma / Associated Press Despite playing in obscurity in Oakland, Zach Miller has stiffarmed his way into the consciousness of fans. On the eve of training camp, front office executives scour their rosters looking for a few young... more

Now that Michael Vick has been conditionally reinstated into the NFL , teams are pouring over old Atlanta Falcons game tape to determine if the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback has the skills to orchestrate a comeback after a 23-month federal sentence kept... more

The career of a kick returner often resembles a comet, as it shines brightly for a short period of time before fading into oblivion. Legendary return men, Billy â??White Shoesâ? Johnson, Eric Metcalf, Dante Hall and Mel Gray all enjoyed spectacular... more

Joe Montana is often cited as the greatest quarterback to ever play the game, but the criteria used to distinguish the best players at the position remains a mystery. League observers, coaches and fans all use a varying set of standards to determine... more

It is quite ironic on the eve of Randall McDaniel 's induction in the Pro Football Hall of Fame that one of his contemporaries is considered by some to be the best offensive lineman in the game. Since the passing game evolved into the preferred... more

As Jerry Rice bides his time waiting for his eventual induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame , he must gaze glowingly at the host of young playmakers currently manning the position that he redefined during his 19-year career. Rice, who holds... more

Kellen Winslow is credited with revolutionizing the tight end position with his superior athleticism and playmaking ability. The Pro Football Hall of Famer tormented defenses with his versatile skill set and became a star as a hybrid tight end-wide... more

As the game shifts to more two-back platoon systems, the number of the elite backs running roughshod through the league has seemingly diminished. Last season, only five rushers logged more than 300 rushing attempts, and six of the league's top ten... more

The term "shutdown corner" was popularized by NFL spectators in the 1990s after they watched Deion Sanders neutralize the league's top receivers. The eight-time Pro Bowler was so effective in pass coverage that offenses avoided throwing the ball in his... more

The shadow of Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott looms large when looking at the safety position in today's NFL. The legendary headhunter set the standard for the position with his teeth-rattling hits and game-clinching interceptions. The... more

There are a variety of ways to build a top defense, but one common denominator exists on fearsome units: the presence of a ferocious pass rush. Whereas most teams would love for that rush to be generated from a balanced defensive front that features... more

In a league where defenses are constructed under the premise of being strong up the middle, the tackle position has become the most pivotal spot on the defensive side of the ball. Although defensive tackles come in various shapes and sizes, the elite... more

Devin Hester may not fancy himself an explorer, but the path he's navigating is seldom traveled by elite receivers. The two-time Pro Bowler is attempting to transform from an All-Pro kick returner to a No. 1 wide receiver. To make it even tougher, the... more

The lights shine on Broadway, but the Big Apple's most intense glow will be focused on Brian Schottenheimer this fall. The 35-year-old offensive coordinator oversees an offense dealing with uncertainty at key positions while carrying the weight of... more

When Jaguars general manager Gene Smith observed his team during offseason workouts, he likely experienced a bit of déjà vu focusing on the offensive side of the ball. After spending the offseason revamping the Jaguars' offensive line, the veteran... more

It is only fitting that in the same year Bruce Smith receives induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame , the Buffalo Bills are depending on his contemporaries to engineer a postseason run. Whereas it would appear that the pressure of the Bills'... more

There's an adage in the Lone Star State that warns against messing with Texas. Opponents might want to heed the message when venturing into Houston this season because the Texans have put together an offense that has the capability of setting the league... more

The culture is slowly changing in Tampa, and Bucs fans are in for a major surprise in '09. A franchise that has been anchored by a hard-hitting defense over the past decade is set to sail in a new direction: behind a high-powered offense. The sight of... more

Ronald Martinez / Getty Images The departures of LB Bart Scott, coordinator Rex Ryan and S Jim Leonhard will challenge Baltimore's defense. After dominating the NFL for the past decade, the Ravens' defense enters the 2009 season squarely at a... more

In boxing, there is an age-old adage that contrasting styles make fights. The same axiom could be applied to the 49ers' quarterback competition between Alex Smith and Shaun Hill. As coach Mike Singletary and his staff evaluate the two candidates vying... more

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- If it is true that a team takes on the personality of its coaches, NFC West opponents should be wary of the 49ers' defense this season. Led by coach Mike Singletary and unheralded defensive coordinator Greg Manusky, the team is... more

Ned Dishman / Getty Images Veteran fullback Lorenzo Neal has joined the Oakland Raiders, his eighth team in 17 NFL seasons. As Tony Richardson and Lorenzo Neal survey the NFL landscape, they must feel like dinosaurs. That's not only because... more

Vince Young's recent proclamation about his desire to reclaim the Tennessee Titans' starting quarterback job has drawn raised eyebrows from NFL observers, but cynics should pause before completely dismissing his argument. The 2006 Offensive Rookie of the... more

If the New Orleans Saints are to follow the NFC South's well-established tradition of going from worst-to-first, Gregg Williams will be the one to guide their path. The Saints' new defensive coordinator was hired to remake a porous defense that was... more

Summers are always sweltering in Texas, but the Dallas Cowboys ensured that the heat will reach a fever pitch in Valley Ranch next season by releasing Terrell Owens. It's rare for a team to cut a player who had delivered the kind of production that... more

After watching the NFC West field some of the most prolific aerial attacks in the league throughout the years, fans and observers should take note of the dramatic transformation that is set to unfold within the division in 2009. Led by three new... more

Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press Dallas' Wade Phillips, Chicago's Lovie Smith and New York's Rex Ryan will each act as head coach/defensive play-caller. What do Wade Phillips, Lovie Smith and Rex Ryan all have in common? They are a trio of... more

  SAN DIEGO -- After watching the AFC West welcome two new head coaches -- Denver's Josh McDaniels and Kansas City's Todd Haley -- Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera went on a mission this offseason to transform a pass defense that was porous in... more

Andy Lyons / Getty Images Second-year pro Darren McFadden is the home-run hitter in Oakland's three-headed ground attack. Al Davis has long been noted for his preference for the long ball, but this year's version of the Raiders' offense might... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2009 NFL Draft. Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. After watching the draft come and go, it is time to assess how each team... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2009 NFL Draft. Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. After watching the draft come and go, it is time to assess how each team... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2009 NFL Draft. Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. After watching the draft come and go, it is time to assess how each team fared... more

  NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2009 NFL Draft. Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. After watching the draft come and go, it's time to assess how each team... more

NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks is handing out grades for each team following the 2009 NFL Draft. Check back daily as he breaks down each team, division by division. After watching the draft come and go, it is time to assess how each team... more

» Complete pick-by-pick analysis After the Lions landed their franchise quarterback, a number of surprise picks followed. Here's an inside look at how the first round unfolded. 1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia The Lions land... more

We'll know for sure how the first round plays out on Saturday, but two days before the start of the draft, here is how I see it unfolding, with the draft scenarios facing each team during the first round: 1. Detroit Lions Matthew Stafford, QB,... more

» Picks 1-16 17. New York Jets Mock drafts In his latest, two-round mock draft, NFL.com's Pat Kirwan says that the Lions appear poised to take Matthew Stafford with the No. 1 overall pick. Where do other players land? More... » Mock... more

The inexact science of scouting leads to surprising twists and turns on draft day, as teams view prospects in different lights. While some teams see a player as a potential Pro Bowl-caliber talent, others may view the same prospect as a perennial... more

The process of tracking the draft hopefuls is similar to watching the stock market -- players see their stock rise and fall on a weekly basis. Just days before the big event, let's look at some prospects who are rising and falling on draft boards... more

The draft is less than a week away, and team war rooms are buzzing in anticipation of the event. General managers and scouts are finalizing their strategies and putting together contingency plans for all of the various scenarios that could... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | ILB | CB | S Does size really matter? That what scouts are pondering after taking a look at the cornerbacks from the 2009 draft class. With the league... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | ILB | CB | S What do DeMarcus Ware, Joey Porter and James Harrison have in common? Well, besides being among the league leaders in sacks last season, each... more

In an offseason full of blockbuster trades, the Buffalo Bills pulled off a stunner by sending two-time Pro Bowl left tackle Jason Peters to the Philadelphia Eagles for a first-round pick (No. 28 overall) and a fourth-round pick in next week's NFL... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | ILB | CB | S Top five tight ends Rank Player School Height Weight Projected round 1. Brandon Pettigrew Oklahoma State 6-5 263 1... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | ILB | CB | S The NFL has long held the reputation of being a copycat league, and the draft often reacts to the trends that emerge from the previous year. When... more

» More from the draft series: QB | RB | TE | WR | G | C | OT | DL | DE/OLB | CB | S If imitation is the highest form of flattery, then Pro Bowl wide receivers Andre Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald should be honored by the events set to... more

Pencil in Chicago and Minnesota to challenge for supremacy in the NFC this season, and likewise for Pittsburgh and Baltimore in the AFC. And while you're at it, cross off Miami, New England, Carolina and Atlanta. All hopeless cases? Not so fast.... more

In an offseason of major moves, the blockbuster deal between the Chicago Bears and Denver Broncos stands among the biggest. The Bears now have their franchise signal-caller in Jay Cutler, and the Broncos added a bevy of draft picks to start reshaping... more