DRAFT TRACKER 2008

Blue collar left defensive end prospect who lacks the flashy athleticism to earn a high ranking, but could surprise at the next level due to his high motor and physicality. The son of a defensive line coach, Mattison plays with excellent technique and toughness. He wasn't particularly impressive in stints at the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl, but he flashed some versatility in playing inside at tackle.

Small school defensive end prospect who will have to be moved to outside linebacker in the NFL, but has flashed the athleticism and certainly the big-play ability to warrant this projection. The most dominant edge rusher in the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly D-IAA) over the past two seasons, Smith is a two-time All-American and Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year. As one would expect of a player his size, Smith possesses great burst off the snap and the straight-line speed to chase down ballcarriers. He has intriguing change of direction and flashes explosiveness in his hands, prompting some to view him as a potential diamond in the rough.

The tallest defensive lineman to suit up for the Hurricanes, Campbell was regarded as the premier defensive end in college football entering the 2007 season. The Hurricanes' defense struggled, as did Campbell, and the team lost six of their final seven games. Campbell produced pedestrian numbers rather than dominating the action in the trenches as expected. Originally recruited as a tight end because of his athletic ability, Campbell took over starting duties on the right side of the defensive line as a sophomore. He put together a streak of seven consecutive games with at least one quarterback sack as a junior, the second-longest streak in school history. His 10 1/2 sacks in 2006 were the most by a Hurricane since Derrick Ham posted 12 sacks in 1998 and it ranks tied for eighth on the school's season-record list. Campbell comes from a family with deep roots in football. His younger brother, Jared, is a 2007 recruit at Miami and his older brother, Ciare was a defensive back at Colorado State (2004-05). Another brother (Raj) played football at Butte and Orange County Junior Colleges and is presently a receiver at Adams State. At Denver's South High School, Campbell was a standout rush end and tight end. He was rated the 11th-best football player in the country by Super Prep, earning All-American and Elite 50 honors from that recruiting service. Super Prep also rated him the second-best prospect in the state of Colorado, awarding him Midlands Defensive Player of the Year accolades in 2003. Campbell was listed on Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report National Top 100 and ranked as the nation's 11th-best defensive end. The two-time All-State pick as a junior and senior, he also played offensive tackle as a sophomore and tight end his final two years. He set a state career-record with 58 sacks during his four-year career, including 38 over his final two seasons. As a senior, Campbell registered 19 sacks 118 total tackles, three knockdowns and two interceptions. On offense, he had 38 receptions for 412 yards with four touchdowns, including 68- and 72-yarders on tight end screens. As a junior, he posted 19 sacks, 109 tackles and five touchdowns off blocked kicks and fumble returns, in addition to blocking three punts, adding three receptions for 56 yards. Campbell was an accomplished all-around athlete who was an All-State basketball choice as a junior (the only non-senior chosen) in 2002-03. He averaged 22.7 points (fourth-best in Colorado) and led the state in rebounding (16.0 per game) and blocked shots (3.3 per game) as a junior. He also competed in track and field, qualifying for the state meet in the discus and shot put in 2003. His track and field personal bests included 21 feet in the long jump, 48-feet-1 in the shot put, 135-0 in the discus, and 44-2 in the triple-jump. Campbell enrolled at Miami in 2004, declining offers from Colorado State, Nebraska, Louisiana State, Michigan and Oklahoma. He spent his first season on the scout team and was a reserve right defensive end in 2005, playing in 11 games. He started vs. Louisiana State in the Peach Bowl, finishing the campaign with 24 tackles (15 solo), 2 1/2 sacks, six stops for losses and eight quarterback pressures. As a sophomore, Campbell earned team MVP honors, in addition to picking up first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference recognition. He took over right defensive end duties, leading the team and ranking seventh nationally with 20 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage, as he finished 15th in the nation with 10 1/2 sacks. He posted 55 tackles (38 solo) with 17 pressures and caused three fumbles while deflecting four passes. A preseason All-American and favorite to win the Ted Hendricks Award (nation's top defensive end), Campbell fared no better than the Hurricanes. Miami got off to a 4-1 start under new head coach Randy Shannon, as the right defensive end registered 25 tackles (16 solos) with 4 1/2 sacks, seven stops for losses, three pressures, two forced fum

An intriguing athlete with the instincts, physicality and legitimate NFL speed to surprise at the next level. A former linebacker, Campbell is adept at coming up in run support. He flashes explosive hitting ability and reads the play quickly. The concern isn't his speed -- Campbell ran in the 4.5s for scouts despite his rare size and after rehabbing a torn ACL -- but rather marginal change of direction for pass coverage. Regardless of his pro position, Campbell's physicality and instincts make him a developmental candidate and potential special teams demon.

Simply put, there isn't an offensive lineman in the country whose stock flourished over the 2007 college football season more than Nicks'. Nicks signed with New Mexico State out of high school, but transferred to Hartnell Junior College due to academic struggles. At Hartnell, Nicks emerged as one of the elite JUCO prospects in the country and signed with Nebraska over the likes of Louisville, California, Wisconsin and Washington. Upon signing with Nebraska, Nicks became a regular contributor immediately, serving as the primary backup at right tackle most of the 2006 season and filling in as the starter against Colorado and Oklahoma when starter Matt Slauson went down with an injury. Nicks made the move to left tackle as a senior and started 11 of 12 games there in 2007, earning Second Team Big 12 honors in his first starting season. Of course, there is a gamble when basing a draft selection on one year's work, but Nicks' play in 2007 was impressive. Blessed with surprising quickness off the snap for such a large man, Nicks was effective as both a pass and run blocker for the Huskers. Rather than rely on his size and strength, Nicks' balance and overall athleticism were key in his ability to protect the quarterback's blindside in this offense. He may lack the elite footwork to remain on the left side at the NFL, but his girth and strength make him a natural candidate for the right side.

Stewart is a 'tweener back who lacks the preferred size and explosiveness for the traditional lead blocker role, and doesn't have the breakaway speed teams are looking for at running back. Stewart is also a natural receiver and shows some make-you-miss with the ball in his hands, giving teams a unique rushing weapon out of the fullback position. He is willing and intuitive as a blocker, but will struggle to sustain blocks against the NFL's bigger defenders.

A number of Virginia Tech outside linebackers and defensive ends have had success over the years. Oftentimes, the tireless work of the defensive tackles who constantly took on multiple blockers in order to free up their teammates to make the big plays have been overshadowed. Because of the constant multiple coverage that they face, the Hokies' defensive tackles do not have eye-opening statistics, but head coach Frank Beamer has noted the need for his defensive tackles to dominate vs. the inside running game. While Tech has produced quality run-stuffing tackles in recent seasons, none has shown the ability to simply shut down the opposition's ground game the way Carlton Powell, Jr. can. How dominant has Powell been? In 73 plays that he made vs. the run, he held the opponent to minus-21 yards rushing. Since Powell was inserted into the starting lineup, Tech has led the nation in total defense the last two years (2005-06) and led the Division 1-A ranks in scoring defense in 2006, after placing second the previous two seasons. A prep inside linebacker during his first three years at Great Bridge High School, Powell shifted to defensive tackle as a senior while also competing on the offensive line. The All-Atlantic Region choice by Prep Star battled injuries during his final campaign, but still managed to registered 60 tackles, five sacks, five fumble recoveries and a blocked punt. As a junior, he totaled 80 tackles with seven sacks and 15 stops behind the line of scrimmage. Powell added honorable mention All-Eastern Region accolades and received a three-star prospect rating from Rivals.com. He was rated the 24th-best player in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and the state's 15th-ranked prospect by Super Prep. He was also a member of Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report All-Mid Atlantic team. He was a standout weight performer on the school's track team, finishing seventh in the Group AAA outdoor shot put competition as a senior. Powell enrolled at Virginia Tech in 2003, turning down scholarship offers from Maryland, East Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. He spent his first season at Tech competing on the scout team. In 2004, he appeared in 13 games as part of the team's defensive tackle rotation. He registered 17 tackles (seven solo) with 7 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage, six quarterback pressures and a pass deflection. In 19 plays vs. the run, he held the opponent to minus-17 yards rushing. As a sophomore, Powell started five of 12 games at defensive tackle, missing the Duke game after spraining his ankle vs. North Carolina State in the season opener. He made 13 tackles (three solo) with an assisted sack and 1 1/2 stops for losses. But, those statistics don't tell the story. Twelve of those tackles came vs. the run, as he held the opposition to minus-7 yards on those plays. In 2006, Powell was firmly entrenched as the starter at left defensive tackle. He recorded a career-high 38 tackles (16 solo) with 2 1/2 sacks, 6 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage and seven pressures. He also recovered a fumble and deflected a pass. With increased playing time, he also improved his dominance vs. the ground game. In 39 running plays directed at him, Powell held firmly, as the opponent was held to minus-2 yards rushing. The defensive tackle started 12 of the team's 13 games in 2007. He posted 36 tackles (nine solo) with 2 1/2 sacks, six stops for losses and 15 quarterback pressures. He also forced a fumble. In 51 games at Virginia Tech, Powell started 31 contests. He recorded 104 tackles (35 solo) with 5 1/2 sacks for minus 40 yards, 21 1/2 stops for losses of 75 yards and 30 quarterback pressures. He recovered two fumbles, caused three others and deflected a pair of passes. In 106 running plays directed at him, Powell's tackles resulted in the opposition in being held to minus-13 yards on the ground.

Chad Henne served as the engineer for a team that relied heavily on its ground game over the years, but he's a classic pocket passer with a big arm. With his quick setup and arm strength, he gave the Wolverines an added weapon in their offensive arsenal. In 47 games -- all starts -- at Michigan, Henne set the Wolverines' career marks with 828 completions of 1,387 pass attempts for 9,715 yards, 87 touchdowns and 37 interceptions, in addition to setting records with 1,567 plays participated in for 9,400 yards in total offense. Henne also produced 26 200-yard passing performances, the second-best total in UM history. Henne was a highly-decorated passer at Wilson High School. He was rated the seventh-best player in the country and third-ranked quarterback by Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report (also rated third in the nation at QB by Prep Star). Rivals.com rated him the third-best quarterback in the nation and the state of Pennsylvania's second-ranked prep player, receiving a five-star rating. He was also ranked third nationally at quarterback by Super Prep and second by Collegefootballnews.com and MaxEmfingerRecruiting.com (also received a five-star rating from Max Emfinger). Henne was named one of the Adidas Fab 50 National Playmakers in 2003 and rated the best quarterback in the nation by The G&W Recruiting Report. He earned All-American honors from that recruiting service, receiving the same accolades from Parade. He played in the 2004 U.S. Army All-American Game and competed in the Big 33 All-Star Classic. He was named Gatorade Player of the Year award for the state of Pennsylvania and was the recipient of the Wilson Most Valuable Offensive Player Award as a senior. In addition, Henne added first-team All-State honors from the Associated Press and was a three-time first-team All-Berks County selection, adding All-Berks/Lancaster Lebanon Offensive Back of the Year honors as a junior and senior. He earned second-team All-State honors as a junior and first-team All-Berks County and all-league honorable mention as a freshman. Henne set the Pennsylvania District III all-time passing and touchdown records (7,071 yards and 74 touchdowns), as he completed 147-of-249 passes for 1,743 yards and 19 scores his senior season, when he also rushed for 450 yards and five scores. He threw for more than 4,000 yards in his sophomore and junior seasons alone, completing 64.4% of his passes for 2,088 yards, 23 touchdowns and three interceptions (two came on deflections) while rushing for over 600 yards and six touchdowns as a junior. As a sophomore, Henne passed for 1,405 yards and 16 touchdowns and completed 53.4% of his throws for 1,835 yards and 16 touchdowns as a freshman. He also competed in track and was timed in 100-meters at 11.2. He threw the javelin a career-best 195.5 feet. He was a two-year starter on the basketball team, averaging eight points and eight rebounds per game as a senior. Henne enrolled at Michigan in 2004 and quickly took over quarterback duties, starting all 12 games. He received the U-M Athletic Academic Achievement Award and was an All-Big Ten Conference honorable mention by the league's coaches and media. He added Freshman All-American accolades from Scripps/Football Writers Association, Rivals.com and The Sporting News Freshman All-America first team. He finished the year as the top true freshman quarterback statistically in Michigan and Big Ten history, connecting on 240-of-399 passes (60.2%) for 2,743 yards and 25 touchdowns, ranking third on the school's single-season list for attempts, completions and yards. He also tied the school record for most touchdown passes in a season (25 shared by Elvis Grbac in 1991) and ran for two more scores. In 2005, Henne again started all 12 games. He completed 223-of-382 passes (58.4%) for 2,526 yards with 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He ranks fourth in Michigan history in touchdown passes in a season, fourth in completions, fifth in attempts

Professional scouts flocked to Northern Iowa to see what many feel is the NCAA Subdivision's premier draft prospect in 2007. One of the most dominant left tackles in the game, Rinehart anchored the Panthers' offensive line since moving into the lineup as a freshman. The decorated blocker is equally proficient in opening holes for the ground game or sliding back to protect the quarterback's blind side in passing situations. With Rinehart at left tackle, Northern Iowa has averaged over 400 yards per game in total offense (410.84 yards per game) over the last three seasons. The team ranked 10th in rushing (219.36 yards per game) and fourth in total offense (408.27 ypg) during his junior year. At Boone High School, Rinehart was a standout offensive lineman. He earned All-State second-team honors as both a junior and senior. He was also a first-team All-District and All-Conference choice during his final two seasons. Rinehart also starred for the track team, qualifying for the state finals in the discus. Pursued by the Naval Academy, Rinehart decided to enroll at Northern Iowa. He spent the 2003 season competing as an offensive tackle on the scout team. In 2004, he took over at left tackle, starting the team's first five games before undergoing a laparoscopic appendectomy on October 21. He missed three games while recovering before returning to the field as a reserve for the team's final three contests. He finished his first season with the team with an 87.57% grade for blocking consistency, delivering four touchdown-resulting blocks in the process. Rinehart began to establish his dominance in the trenches as a sophomore in 2005. He earned All-Gateway Conference first-team honors and was a second-team All-Northwest Region choice by Football Gazette. He completely manhandled his opponents, coming up with 134 knockdowns, including 13 touchdown-resulting blocks and an impressive 17 blocks downfield. He registered an 87.13% grade for blocking consistency, helping the team average 236.8 yards per game passing and 400.53 yards in total offense. Rinehart garnered Associated Press and Sports Network All-American second-team honors in 2006. He was an All-Gateway Conference and All-Northwest Region first-team choice and earned his third Gateway Offensive Lineman of the Week honors during his junior campaign. He helped a unit that ranked fourth nationally in total offense with an average of 408.27 yards per game and ranked 10th in the Division 1-AA ranks with an average of 219.36 yards per game on the ground. He delivered 105 knockdowns in 11 games, producing 17 touchdown-resulting blocks and 15 more blocks downfield. He held his opponents to just three stops behind the line of scrimmage and a total of 14 tackles (10 solo), as he led the 1-AA linemen with an 89.64% grade for blocking consistency. As a senior, Rinehart was a consensus All-American first-team and unanimous All-Gateway Conference first-team preseason selection. He continued his dominance, as he graded 91.0% for blocking consistency through the team's first six games of the 2007 season. To date, he collected 63 knockdowns with 11 touchdown-resulting blocks and nine blocks downfield. The offense responded to his blocking by averaging 447.4 yards per game, an improvement of close to 40 yards per game from the previous season. In 40 games at Northern Iowa, Rinehart started 37 games at left offensive tackle. He graded 88.5% for blocking consistency, as he produced 369 knockdowns/key blocks, including 45 that resulted in touchdowns and 48 more that came downfield.

An intriguing late-round back with the agility and straight-line speed to make a difference as a third-down specialist. A transfer from South Florida, Simpson dominated the lower competition in the MEAC, accounting for 161.6 all-purpose yards per game as a senior. While Simpson's rare athleticism is intriguing, he shows only marginal hands and vision. Coupled with his lack of preferred size, that could make this natural runner one who struggles to find a consistent role in the NFL.

Godfrey entered his senior season barely a blip on the NFL radar, but after a breakout campaign that resulted in Second Team All-Big Ten honors, his stock is on the rise. A former safety, Godfrey has shown significant improvement in his two years at the position. He is hyper-aggressive in his run support and seems to relish the physical aspect of the game. Godfrey averaged 74 tackles over his two seasons at cornerback, but it is his improvement as a pass defender that has scouts so intrigued. Godfrey showed better recognition as a senior and an ability to make the big play (nine pass break-ups, five INTs). There are some concerns about his transition -- Godfrey isn't as fast on the field as his timed speed -- which could result in his being moved back to safety in the NFL, at least initially. There are some concerns, but Godfrey's physicality and raw athleticism will result in an early-round selection despite the fact that he remains a bit unpolished.

An undersized, high effort defensive end, Ortiz operated largely under Tommy Blake's shadow while at TCU. But as the first three-time Mountain West Conference first team choice in 30 years, he's a legitimate NFL prospect in his own right. Though he doesn't look the part at his size, Ortiz shows quickness off the snap, uses his hands well to disengage from blockers and is an instinctive, active pass rusher. Previously weighing in the 260-pound range, Ortiz lost nearly 20 pounds in preparation for being tried at linebacker in all-star games, but didn't appear athletic enough at the East-West Shrine Game to handle this transition.

After missing the 2004 and 2005 seasons due to academic ineligibility, Washington emerged as the Trojans' leading rusher each of the past two years. He certainly isn't in the class of former USC backs Reggie Bush or LenDale White, but has good size, balance and power as an interior runner. A solid receiver out of the backfield, Washington has a chance to make a club as physical change-of-pace back.

Chevis Jackson might not be as flashy as some defensive backs -- or even LSU defenders on the defensive front wall -- but he was the main reason the secondary ranked among the nation's best in each of his three seasons as a starter. With Jackson playing the shutdown cornerback role, the Tigers ranked third in the nation in total defense in those three seasons, allowing 288.79 yards per game in 2007, 242.77 yards in 2006 and 266.85 yards in 2005. In his senior season, opposing quarterbacks completed only 25.61% of the passes thrown into Jackson's area (21-of-82), and Jackson held the opposition to a miniscule 2.8 yards per pass attempt. At St. Paul's Episcopal High School, Jackson was regarded as one of the most versatile athletes in the state of Alabama, as he started at cornerback, wide receiver and also returned kickoffs and punts. He recorded 40 tackles and seven interceptions on defense in 2003, as he also caught 31 passes for 660 yards and five touchdowns at wide receiver. He fielded 16 kickoffs for 415 yards and 13 punts for 80 yards as a junior, adding 45 catches for 850 yards and nine touchdowns in 2002. Jackson saw limited duty in 10 games as a true freshman at Louisiana State in 2004, finishing with five tackles (two solo) and three pass deflections. He took over right cornerback duties as a sophomore, going on to start his next 40 games at that position. He ranked eighth on the team with 47 tackles (34 solo), assisting on a sack while posting 3.5 stops for losses and a QB pressure. He also had an interception, three pass breakups, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble. Jackson stepped into a leadership role the following season. The junior started all 13 games in 2006, collecting 46 tackles (33 solo), 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage and 14 pass deflections. He intercepted two passes and gained 100 yards on 15 punt returns. As a senior, Jackson batted away 16 passes and intercepted five more to earn first-team All-Southeastern Conference honors. He delivered three stops for losses among his 44 tackles (34 solo). In 50 games at Louisiana State, Jackson started 40 games. He registered 142 tackles (103 solo) with an assisted sack for minus-3 yards and eight stops for losses of 25 yards. He caused and recovered a fumble and also averaged 6.7 yards on 15 punt returns. He broke up 36 passes and intercepted eight others for 62 yards in returns (7.8-yard average).

A veteran of 22 career starts despite leaving after his junior season, Rachal's rare size, explosive hands and nastiness as a drive blocker make him an intriguing prospect for a power running offense. Rachal lacks prototype quickness and struggles with balance at times as a pass blocker. Despite being voted by conference coaches first team All-Pac-10 in 2007, Rachal could have used another year of development before turning pro, especially considering questions about his durability. In leaving early, Rachal is hoping the financial gain of an NFL contract can help ease the burden of family medical issues.

With a few notable exceptions, former Virginia Tech defensive ends haven't exactly taken the NFL by storm. Since Buffalo selected Bruce Smith in the 1985 draft, until Seattle discovered Darryl Tapp in the second round of the 2006 draft, few Hokies have been successful going from Blacksburg to the NFL. With his breakout 2007 season, Chris Ellis hopes that his name will be alongside Smith and Tapp in the near future. Ellis is more than just an edge rusher. He has had good success as a leverage player vs. the run and has the quick-twitch moves to give chase in the opposing backfield. With his lateral agility and ability to clear his feet on the move, some scouts are even analyzing him as a potential strong-side linebacker in a 3-4 alignment, thanks to his 4.56 speed. Ellis was a member of Super Prep's Elite 100 list following his senior season at Bethel High School, where he led the team with 50 tackles, seven for loss, and 10 sacks as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He was named an All-American by both Super Prep and Prep Star as a defensive lineman and received VHSCA All-Eastern Region honorable mention as a defensive end his final season. Ellis was also selected as a first-team Newport News Daily Press All-Star, adding first-team Peninsula District accolades. He was ranked the 13th-best defensive end in the country and the third-best prospect in Virginia by Super Prep and rated the 21st-best defensive end in the nation by Tom Lemming on ESPN.com. An All-Mid-Atlantic Region choice by Prep Football Report, he recorded 75 tackles and 15 sacks as a junior. Ellis enrolled at Virginia Tech in 2003, spending the season as a defensive end on the scout team until undergoing surgery on his right shoulder in October to repair a torn labrum. He earned third-team Freshman All-American honors from The Sporting News in 2004, lining up for 13 games as the team's top reserve at defensive end. He would finish his first season with the Hokies by making 33 tackles (15 solo) with three sacks, 7 1/2 stops for losses and 14 quarterback pressures. He also recovered two fumbles. As a sophomore, Ellis started nine of 13 contests at right defensive end. He was in on 41 tackles, including six sacks and 10 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage, both ranking second on the team. He added 14 pressures with two forced fumbles and batted down five passes. In 2006, Ellis started 12 games at left defensive end. He was bothered by shoulder problems at the beginning and end of the year that required surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder after the team's bowl game. He was also suspended for the Georgia Tech clash when he was arrested in October for disorderly conduct. He made 38 tackles (18 solo) with 4 1/2 sacks, 8 1/2 stops for losses and 16 pressures while also coming up with two forced fumbles. As a senior, his relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks earned Ellis first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors. He posted a career-high 53 tackles (25 solo), along with 8 1/2 sacks, nine stops behind the line of scrimmage and 38 pressures. He caused one fumble and recovered another, as he also deflected five passes and intercepted another.

Even if he wasn't a top Texas high school prospect, Harrington may have received a legacy scholarship at Texas A&M: his grandfather and three uncles played at College Station. Uncle Dave was an NFL All-Pro for the Los Angeles Rams in the 70's. Harrington hopes to have that sort of success, but he'll have to follow the Aaron Kampman road to do so. Both were considered try-hard guys who were really solid college players but had limited pro upside. A mid-round draft selection may give this lifetime Aggie some incentive to follow Kampman's ascending career path.

Horton's 2005 wrist injury will scare some off, but if the injury checks out medically, he is a intriguing player. Physical and instinctive, Horton quietly developed into one of the Pac-10's better overall defensive backs in 2006 and seems poised for bigger things as a senior.

Few teams in the collegiate or professional ranks have such an explosive and versatile weapon as the Pirates boast with Chris Johnson. Fully recovered from turf toe that hampered him in 2006 and neck surgery during the 2007 off-season, Johnson established himself as the premier all-purpose back in the NCAA Division 1-A ranks during his final campaign. At Olympia High School, Johnson earned All-Orange County honors as a senior and was selected the Most Valuable Player for his performance in the Orange County All-Star Game. He was rated among the top 100 players in state of Florida by Super Prep, as he scored eight touchdowns during his final campaign, despite missing four contests with an injury. As a junior, he rushed for more than 1,000 yards. A standout weight lifter, he boasted the top power numbers among the team's skill position players with a 265-pound power clean-lift and a 315-pound bench-press. Johnson also competed in track. He was timed at 10.38 seconds in the 100-meter sprint and ran the anchor leg on the fastest 4x100 relay team in the nation that won Golden South and Golden West national titles. Johnson proved to be a dangerous kickoff returner as a true freshman in 2004 at East Carolina, where he was originally signed as a wide receiver. He gained 765 yards on 37 attempts (20.7 avg) and made a solo tackle on special teams. He started seven of 11 games at tailback, leading the team with 561 yards and five touchdowns on 134 carries (4.2 avg). He caught 32 passes, second-best on the team, for 236 yards (7.4 avg) and two scores, totaling 42 points for the year. Johnson ranked fourth in Conference USA and 24th nationally with 1,562 all-purpose yards, an average of 142.0 yards per game. For those efforts, he was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman squad as a running back and kickoff return specialist. He was also named the team's Outstanding Newcomer-of-the-Year. During his sophomore campaign, Johnson started all 11 games, leading the team with 176 rushes for 684 yards (3.9 avg) and six touchdowns. He grabbed 35 passes for 356 yards (10.2 avg) and two scores. His 67 receptions during his first two seasons set the school career-record for running backs. He returned 21 kickoffs for 459 yards (21.9 avg), scored 48 points and ranked second in the Conference USA ranks with an average of 136.27 all-purpose yards per game in 2005. Listed on numerous preseason All-Conference USA first-team squads, Johnson was limited to five starting assignments, seeing limited action in seven other games during the 2006 season due to turf toe and also had neck surgery in the off-season that kept him out of spring drills. He still finished second on the team with 314 yards and four touchdowns on 78 carries (4.0 avg) while starting four times at tailback. He started the season finale at flanker, coming up with 21 catches for 176 yards (8.4 avg). He ranked third in the conference with a 22.95-yard average on 21 kickoff returns for 482 yards and a touchdown. He scored 30 points, made one solo tackle and averaged 81.0 all-purpose yards per game. In 2007, Johnson established a new Conference USA record with an average of 227.69 all-purpose yards per game. That figure led the nation, and he was 24th with 109.5 rushing yards per game. He became the 24th player in Division 1-A history to amass more than 6,000 all-purpose yards in a career. In 47 games at East Carolina, Johnson became the 11th player in school history to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a career, amassing 2,982 yards with 32 touchdowns on 624 attempts. He holds the school career-record for running backs with 125 receptions for 1,296 yards and 10 touchdowns. He became the first player in school history to amass more than 5,000 all-purpose yards in a career, totaling 6,993 yards.

Regarded by many as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football entering his senior season, Long more than lived up to those expectations, terrorizing opposing quarterbacks to the tune of 14 sacks, 23 pressures, nine pass break-ups and an interception in 2007. He also caused a pair of fumbles on sacks that Virginia recovered, leading to Cavaliers scores. Named the Atlantic Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year and the recipient of the Ted Hendricks Award (nation's top defensive end), Long has certainly emerged from the shadows of his father, former Oakland Raiders defensive end and Hall of Famer, Howie Long. "You want to talk about a chip off the old block? This is a young man that plays absolutely lights-out football," North Carolina head coach Butch Davis said. "Chris Long has to be one of the premier defensive linemen in the country." Virginia head coach Al Groh also had nothing but rave reviews on Long, stating, "It's hard to imagine there being a better player at any position than Chris Long. A guy would have to be one of the Transformers to be better than Chris. When you've got one of the best players the school's ever had and he's only interested in helping the team win, it puts an exclamation point on what you're trying to do." Groh was amazed that Chris did not receive more Heisman Trophy consideration: "If they're ever going to invite a defensive player to New York in December for the Heisman Trophy presentation, you'd have to think it was Chris Long." Long was well-known to college recruiters, especially after a stellar career at St. Anne's-Belfield School, where competed on both lines for the state champion squad. The Super Prep and Prep Star All-American received a four-star prospect rating from Rivals.com, a service that rated him the sixth-best defensive end in the prep ranks. Tom Lemming ranked him eighth in the country at defensive end and College Football News placed him 11th at that position. Long was a member of Rival.com's Atlantic East Amazing-80 team and he was an honorable mention All-South choice by the Orlando Sentinel. He was named 2003 Gatorade Player of the Year in Virginia and rated as the second-best player in Virginia by the Charlottesville Daily Progress "Gold List," third by the Roanoke Times and fourth by Super Prep and Rivals.com. He was also a three-time first-team All-State selection on offense and defense. The Central Virginia Defensive Player of the Year by the Daily Progress as a senior, Long was a three-time first-team All-Central Virginia defensive lineman by the Charlottesville Daily Progress and earned first-team All-Central Virginia honors his senior season as an offensive lineman as well. He was selected Conference Defensive Player of the Year his final two seasons and was selected Student Sports Junior All-American in 2002. Long registered 91 tackles (44 solos) as a senior to help lead his team to an undefeated season and the state championship, as he had 23 tackles for loss and 15 sacks that season. He also recorded 72 pancake blocks on offense. As a junior, he posted 85 tackles with 12 sacks and more than 20 tackles for loss. The three-time first-team All-Conference choice finished his career with 43 sacks and 66 tackles for loss. He also played basketball, lacrosse, and baseball during his high school career, winning the 2003 YMCA Slam Dunk Contest for high school students. Long would hold the rare distinction of having his jersey retired at St. Anne's Belfield School and also at the University of Virginia, where he played in six games during his freshman year in 2004. He posted five tackles with an 8-yard sack before being sidelined due to a bout of mononucleosis. As a sophomore, Long took over right defensive end duties, starting all 12 games. He totaled 46 tackles (22 solos) with 1.5 sacks and had 7.5 stops for losses, along with 26 pressures and seven pass deflections in 752 plays. In 2006, he earned All-State honors, help

Former defensive tackle who flashes the power and foot quickness to ultimately rate as a starting caliber guard in the NFL. McDuffie has the tools scouts are looking for -- quick feet, size, strength and a strong upper body -- but a torn elbow ligament and resulting surgery as a senior will force scouts to take an extra look at his medical records at the Combine before determining his final draft status.

Purdue has become very proud to be known as the "Den of Defensive Ends." In recent years, the Boilermakers' program has produced future NFL pass-rushing specialists Akin Ayodele (Dallas) Rosevelt Colvin (New England), Ray Edwards (Minnesota), Rob Ninkovich (Miami), Chike Okeafor (Arizona), Shaun Phillips (San Diego) and Anthony Spencer (Dallas). Many scouts feel that Cliff Avril will soon take his place with those former Boilermakers in terrorizing NFL quarterbacks. Some teams have projected Avril as a rush end, but due to his lack of bulk and size, he could shift back to strong-side linebacker. Much like Shaun Phillips, Avril relies on his impressive foot speed and ability to shed blocks on the move to be a constant nuisance in the backfield. Since moving to defensive end two seasons ago, Avril registered 30 of his 35.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage and 12.5 of his 13 sacks from the left end position. At Clay High School, Avril earned second-team All-State honors as a defensive end during his senior year, yet, he was rated the 37-best outside linebacker prospect in the nation by Rivals.com. He was named to the Florida Times-Union Super 24 team and twice earned All-Conference accolades. As a senior, Avril led the team to an 11-2 record. That year, he registered 80 tackles, nine sacks and eleven stops behind the line of scrimmage. He also deflected four passes. In addition to competing on the gridiron, he lettered in basketball, track and field and weight-lifting. Avril enrolled at Purdue in 2004 and saw considerable action as a true freshman. He appeared in 12 games, starting four contests at strong-side linebacker. He was in on 36 tackles (23 solo), as he assisted on a sack and made three stops for losses. He also caused a fumble and batted away one pass. Avril played in 10 games as a sophomore, as a midseason back injury that was later diagnosed as a fracture, hampered him the rest of the year and forced him to sit out the Wisconsin game, in addition to being limited in spring drills the following year. He made 33 tackles (21 solo) with 2.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage while starting four contests in 2005. As a junior, Avril made several changes, switching from jersey No. 85 that he wore his first two seasons to No. 32. He started the first four games at strong-side linebacker, but then shifted to left defensive end for the final 10 games. He went on to rank ninth in the Big Ten Conference with 15 stops for losses. He registered 84 tackles (51 solo), third-best on the team and tied for second on the Boilermakers' defense with six sacks. He caused two fumbles, recovered another and picked off a pass. He also deflected six other tosses. In 2007, Avril was named first-team All-Big Ten Conference by The NFL Draft Report and second-team by the league's media. He started all 13 games at left defensive end, where he led the team and tied for tenth in the conference with 6.5 sacks. He again paced the Boilermakers with 15 stops behind the line of scrimmage, the ninth-best total in the Big Ten. He caused four fumbles, recovered three others and broke up five passes. He also returned an interception for a touchdown. In 49 games at Purdue, Avril started 35 contests, with 12 starts coming at strong-side linebacker and the other 23 at left defensive end. He ranks 12th in school history with 13 sacks for minus-79 yards and finished 11th in Purdue annals with 35.5 stops for losses of 137 yards. He caused seven fumbles and recovered four others while also deflecting 12 passes. He intercepted two passes, good for 48 yards in returns, including one touchdown. Avril is the next Purdue pass rusher capable of making an impact in the NFL. He has great burst off the snap and because of his strength, hustle and strong hand play, he can be an effective 4-3 defensive end. Despite his burst off the snap, however, Avril isn't a natural pass rusher. He lacks creative moves and only 6.5 of his team-leading

There's not much Wallace did not accomplish in his career: he was a three-year starter (36 straight games), Rimington Trophy finalist, Draddy semifinalist (academic Heisman), captain and Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year in the Big 12. He'll probably add top-three center in the 2008 NFL Draft to that list because of his toughness, intelligence and strength. He may not fit every scheme, but some O-line coach will want him badly enough to press his team to use a top-100 choice on him.

One of the most accurate passers in the history of college football, Brennan is the owner of 21 NCAA records in just over two seasons in a Warriors' uniform. A model of consistency, he established many Bowl Subdivision records, including 34 consecutive games with at least 200 passing yards and 20 games with at least 400 yards in total offense. His average of 387.89 yards per game in total offense and a pass completion percentage of .712 are among myriad notable national marks he set among the 31 NCAA records that he established in just 38 games at Hawaii. On the way to shattering numerous national Western Athletic Conference and school passing and total offense records, he has drawn the praise of opposing head coaches. "Colt is as mobile and accurate quarterback that I've seen in a while," Boise State head coach Chris Peterson stated. "He has a great feel for the game and to stop Hawaii, you have to stop Colt." At Mater Dei High School, Brennan earned three letters in football and one in basketball. The team's MVP in 2001, he added All-League first-team gridiron honors. He led the squad to a 9-5 record his final year, completing more than 68% of his passes with 16 touchdowns and four interceptions, adding 200 yards and four scores on the ground. The team went 11-2 his junior year and 9-1 during his sophomore campaign, when he led the team to the CIF championship with a win over powerhouse DeLaSalle High. After his senior year, he was invited to play in the County All-Star Game. He also lettered as a forward on the basketball team as a senior and the squad captured the CIF title. Brennan turned down a scholarship offer from Utah State to enroll at Worcester Academy (Mass.) in 2002. He started seven games that season, completing 101-of-158 passes for 1,707 yards, 15 touchdowns and only four interceptions, but missed two games with a finger fracture. The All-New England Prep School choice helped the team to a 5-4 record, throwing for 287 yards and three scores on 16-of-22 attempts in an upset victory over Mount Ida and gained 390 yards with four scores in a triumph over Valley Forge. Brennan enrolled at the University of Colorado in 2003 as a walk-on. He was listed fourth on the depth chart, but never appeared in a game at the school. His college career almost ended before it began when, on Jan. 28, 2004, he was arrested by campus police and charged with entering a co-ed's room. Uninvited, he was intoxicated at the time of the incident and the woman claimed he exposed himself and fondled her. He pleaded guilty to burglary and trespassing, but a charge of unlawful sexual contact was vacated by the court for lack of evidence. He was dismissed from the team. Brennan transferred to Saddleback Community College, where he appeared in nine games during the 2004 season. He ranked third in the California junior college ranks with an average of 19.7 pass completions per game, seventh with an average of 253.7 yards passing and seventh in total offense (287.7 yards per game). He completed 177-of-259 passes (68.3%) for 2,532 yards, 23 touchdowns and four interceptions. He also rushed for 57 yards on 66 tries (0.9-yard average) with a score, finishing with 2,589 total yards. When coach June Jones recruited him to Hawaii, Brennan found someone with complete confidence in his passing skills. Jones slowly brought Brennan along in the early stage of the 2005 season before turning the starting reins over for 10 games. Brennan led an offensive attack that ranked second in the nation in passing (384.25 yards per game) and led the 1-A ranks in total offense (476.17 yards per game). He ranked ninth nationally with a 155.49 pass-efficiency rating, leading the country with an average of 371.25 yards in total offense, 358.42 aerial yards and 19.17 points responsible for per game. His 4,301 yards was the best in the nation, as he completed 350-of-515 pass attempts (68.0%), with 35 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He finish

Clark was twice an honorable-mention All-Big 12 pick at A&M, but that's not what NFL teams care about. They see a durable, potentially versatile reserve lineman with good measurables and work ethic. There are some questions to be answered, however, about where he fits best and if he can handle the speed of the NFL game.

In a weak senior class of running backs, Boyd's combination of size, quickness, power and receiving ability stand out. He has struggled with consistency throughout his career and was suspended for the entire 2005 season due to an unspecified violation of team rules (non-academic), but he possesses the ability to surprise at the next level. Boyd has great size for the position and is predominately a downhill runner. He flashes quick cutting ability and the vision to break through the initial wave of defense and get into the secondary. He lacks elite breakaway speed, but is often able to gain yardage in chunks. Boyd is a reliable receiver out of the backfield, often used not only as a check-down option, but as the target on bubble screens. Expectations were high for Boyd following a bit of a breakout junior season (1,293 all-purpose yards, nine TDs in only seven starts). Though his numbers improved as a senior (1,308 all-purpose yards, 10 TDs), Boyd was expected to be even more productive considering he started all 12 games in 2007.

A finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation's top defensive back, Steltz continued to excel in 2007, leading a secondary that ranked ninth in the nation, allowing just 182.71 yards per game. His ability to be in the right place to come up with the big interceptions was one of the main reasons the Tigers walked home with the national championship. Getting key contributions from the Steltz family is customary to LSU fans. Craig was preceded by his older brother, Kevin (2003-05) on the Louisiana State campus, where the older sibling was known for his bone-jarring blocks as a fullback. Steltz has been a good "student of the game," as he was taken under the wing of perennial All-American safety LaRon Landry. "I learned a lot from LaRon, and he was a great player," Steltz said in 2007 spring drills. "I tried to practice every time like I was the starter last (season) because you never knew when your time was going to step up, and you had to be ready. I think that helped with the games I started last year." As a leader, Steltz said directing his defensive teammates on the field is one area he is improving every game. He worked diligently to master defensive calls and alignment to be the quarterback of the defense. Considered the state's top safety prospect in 2003 at Archbishop Rummel High School, Steltz showed his versatility playing running back and returning kicks. He was named to Fox Sports Network South's Countdown to Signing Day "All-South" first-team, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100, the Baton Rouge Advocate Super Dozen and the New Orleans Times-Picayune's Top 20 Blue-Chip list, in addition to earning first-team Class 5A All-State recognition in 2003. Steltz finished his senior year with 30 tackles and two sacks, despite suffering from two nagging injuries. He led a ferocious defensive unit that spearheaded the Raiders to an 8-2 district championship season and a regional round playoff berth. He also grabbed nine interceptions and made 120 tackles as a junior. As a true freshman, Steltz saw limited action in four games at Louisiana State in 2004, as he was hampered by a broken right thumb, finishing with one assisted tackle. He was used extensively in the team's nickel package during his sophomore year, but also earned three starting assignments in 2005. He posted 40 tackles (28 solo) with three quarterback pressures and a fumble recovery. He had one interception, two pass breakups, gained three yards on a fake punt and also recovered a blocked punt for a 29-yard touchdown return. Hoping to win a starting job as a junior, Steltz continued to play in the team's sub packages. He started twice at strong safety vs. Alabama and in the Sugar Bowl vs. Notre Dame. He registered 42 tackles (20 solo) with a sack, two stops for losses and three QB pressures. He also deflected five passes and became the first player in school history to have an interception in four consecutive games. A consensus All-American and All-Southeastern Conference selection as a senior, Steltz again led the Tigers with six interceptions, piling up 153 yards in returns, as he finally enjoyed a full season as the team's starting strong safety. He also paced the squad with a career-high 101 tackles (64 solo) that included one sack and five stops behind the line of scrimmage. He also batted away seven passes, caused three fumbles and recovered another. In 44 games at LSU, Steltz started 19 times. He recorded 184 tackles (92 solo) with two sacks for minus-17 yards, seven stops for losses of 34 yards and six quarterback pressures. He caused three fumbles, recovered two others and returned a blocked punt 29 yards for the only touchdown during his career. He gained three yards on a rushing attempt, broke up 14 passes and intercepted 11 others for 286 yards in returns (26-yard average).

A high-character player with size and big hands to be a factor in the passing game, Stevens is also a solid blocker. He'll be considered on the second day.

A collegiate defensive end, Gatewood lacks the size and strength to remain on the line in the NFL. The Commodores' leader with 7.0 sacks last season, Gatewood has the burst off the snap that teams using the 3-4 alignment will appreciate, and yet flashes the instincts, athleticism and use of hands to warrant a long look as a developmental outside linebacker.

One of the best-kept secrets in college football entering his senior campaign, the well-traveled rush end opened more than a few eyes in the scouting circles with his stellar performance in postseason action and a dominating 2007 final campaign. With his quickness off the edge and ability to fly to the ball, Johnson could be in for another "change of scenery" in the NFL, with a possible move to outside linebacker. One of five children of Joanne and Charles Johnson, Curtis was born in California, but moved to upstate New York as a child. He and his brother, J.R., starred at Cicero-North Syracuse High School, as J.R. would go on to letter at Syracuse University (1998-2001) before playing for the Baltimore Ravens (four games) and New Orleans Saints (one game) in 2002, before competing for a job in training camps with the Indianapolis Colts (2003), Carolina Panthers (2003), Oakland Raiders (2003) and Atlanta Falcons (2004). At Cicero-Syracuse High School, Curtis was a two-time Section III All-State selection, adding All-Central New York honors and Post-Standard All-CNY accolades as a running back. He carried 128 times for 1,166 yards (9.1-yard average) and 12 touchdowns as a senior. He also competed as a linebacker, going on to play in the 2002 Governor's Bowl. The Gridiron All-Star and Eastern Regional Elite Team pick also garnered All-American honorable mention from Prep Star and was named one of the Top 50 Athletes in New York by New York Newsday. He also served as the team's captain during his final campaign. Because of academic issues, Johnson had to enroll at Morrisville State College in 2004. He was a two-time All-Northeast Football Conference first-team selection as a defensive end, leading the team in sacks both years, including a conference-high 12 as a freshman. He received All-National Junior College Athletics Association All-American honorable mention in 2004 and was a second-team choice in 2005. He would post 152 tackles (72 solos), 17.5 sacks, 36.5 stops for losses, four fumble recoveries and five forced fumbles in 19 games during his junior college career. After dominating the Northeast Conference in junior college, Johnson planned to play major college football and was recruited by Maryland, Syracuse and Michigan State. He signed a letter of intent to attend Morgan State University, but instead, enrolled at Clark Atlanta University. "One of my friends from my junior college ended up going to Clark, and they were looking for a defensive end/linebacker," Johnson said. "So I sent my film down there and they liked what they saw." Johnson would go on to earn Associated Press Little All-American honors, in addition to receiving first-team All-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference accolades in 2006. He led the Division II ranks with a league season-record nine forced fumbles, recovering four of them for 144 yards in returns with two touchdowns. He ranked second on the team with 70 tackles (50 solos) and five sacks, ranking second in the SIAC with 18 stops for losses. He also intercepted a pass and blocked one kick, while also scoring on a pair of two-point conversions. Johnson was a consensus All-American and unanimous All-SIAC first-team choice in 2007, adding conference Defensive Player of the Year honors. He switched jersey numbers (from 52 to 1), which was fitting, as he ranked first in the Division II ranks with 13.5 sacks and also with 27 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He led the team and ranked 21st nationally with 112 tackles (69 solos), as he caused and recovered a fumble. He also blocked a kick and deflected six passes while scoring on a two-point conversion. At the conclusion of the season, Johnson was invited to the prestigious East-West Shrine All-Star game, becoming the first Clark-Atlanta player to appear in that contest. "It's a big deal for the university," Johnson said. "It's the first time that somebody has done some of this. They have given me a lot of suppo

With many professional teams begging for speed at linebacker, Curtis Lofton entered the 2008 NFL Draft pool as junior knowing he has a chance to make a big splash. A strong-side linebacker for most of his career, Lofton is just starting to tap his vast potential and may have found his calling at middle linebacker. He shifted inside for his final four games with the Sooners and finished his junior campaign with one of the most productive seasons by a defender, as his 157 total tackles are the most by an Oklahoma player since George Cumby amassed 160 hits in 1979. At Kingfisher High School, Lofton was a standout inside linebacker who also competed at fullback. He was rated the eight-best middle linebacker in the nation by ESPN.com and the second-best overall player in the Midlands region by Super Prep and Scout.com, who also had him listed as the state of Oklahoma's second-ranked player. Rivals.com rated Lofton the fourth-best inside linebacker and 62nd-best prospect in the prep ranks. A Parade first-team All-American as a senior, Lofton added Daily Oklahoman All-State and Oklahoma High School Coaches Association All-State first-team accolades. He lettered three times, leading the team in tackles with 168, adding eight sacks as a senior. In 2003, he collected 187 tackles and had 150 stops as a sophomore. For his career, Lofton registered 505 tackles, leading the team to the Class 3A State Championship in 2003 and helped the squad advance to the semifinals in 2004, when he also rushed for 12 touchdowns. Nominated for the March of Dimes Oklahoma Headliners Banquet as one of the top scholar-athletes in the state of Oklahoma, he was a three-time Honor Roll student. He also competed for the basketball and track teams. Lofton enrolled at Oklahoma in 2005, but was relegated mostly to special teams while seeing just a few snaps at middle linebacker. He had a two-yard kickoff return and had three solo tackles, including one behind the line of scrimmage. In 2006, Lofton appeared in all 14 games, starting at strong-side linebacker in five games. He ranked ninth on the squad with 37 tackles (20 solo), including 4.5 stops for losses. He caused and recovered a fumble, adding a 14-yard kickoff return in the Fiesta Bowl vs. Boise State. Lofton wrested a full-time starting job in 2007. He lined up at strong-side linebacker for the first 10 contests before shifting to the middle for the final five games. His career-high 157 tackles (94 solo) rank seventh on the school's single-season list and were the third-highest total in the NCAA ranks (his average of 11.21 tackles per game ranked seventh nationally). Lofton also had a sack, 10.5 stops for losses and four forced fumbles. He recovered a fumble for a touchdown, scored once on three interceptions and deflected two passes. That performance earned him consensus All-American and All-Big Twelve Conference honors, in addition to being selected Big Twelve Defensive Player of the year by the Associated Press. After the season, Lofton declared that he was entering the 2008 NFL Draft. Lofton said the atmosphere at Oklahoma readied him for the next step. In 39 games at Oklahoma, Lofton started 19 times, including four starts at middle linebacker. He recorded 197 tackles (117 solo) with a two-yard sack and 16 stops for losses of 33 yards. He caused five fumbles and recovered two others, returning one 12 yards for a score. He gained 71 yards on three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown and batted down two other throws. He also gained 16 yards on a pair of onside kickoff returns.

A clutch receiver with a long, lean frame, DJ Hall was a model of consistency throughout his Alabama career. He was the first player in school history to produce a pair of 1,000-yard receiving seasons and is only the second player in Tide history to reach that lofty standard. He set new Alabama career records for receptions (194) and yards receiving (2,923) while his 17 touchdown grabs were one shy of the school's all-time mark. At Choctaw High School, Hall was a three-time All-State selection. He ranked 44th on the Orlando Sentinel's Top 100 list, adding All-Conference and All-Area honors. Over his final two seasons, he hauled in 70 passes for 1,707 yards and 25 touchdowns. As a senior, he caught 26 passes for 733 yards and 12 scores, adding 44 receptions for 974 yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior. Hall enrolled at Alabama in 2004 and was immediately thrust into the action, starting 10 of 12 games at split end. He finished fourth on the team with 17 receptions for 186 yards (10.9-yard average) and a touchdown, adding four yards on one reverse. As a sophomore, he started eight of 11 games and was suspended for the Cotton Bowl vs. Texas Tech and 2006 season opener vs. Hawaii for an off-field incident. He still managed to lead the team with 48 catches for 676 yards (14.1-yard average) and five touchdowns. He lost one yard on two punt returns, but picked up 48 yards on a pair of kickoff returns. Hall caught the attention of the media in 2006, garnering All-Southeastern Conference second-team honors. He started 10 of 12 games, ranking 12th in the nation and third in the league with an average of 88 yards per game receiving. His 62 receptions ranked third on the school's season-record list while his 1,056 yards (17-yard average) set a new Tide annual mark. He had five touchdown grabs and gained 139 yards on seven kickoff returns (19.0 avg), adding 48 yards on six rushing attempts (8.0 avg). His seven 100-yard receiving performances set a single-season Alabama record. Hall was again named to the All-SEC second-team in 2007. He started 11 of 13 games, serving a half-game suspension for a violation of team rules vs. Louisiana-Monroe. He set a school record with 67 receptions and his 1,005 yards receiving (15-yard average) rank second in Tide annals to his 2006 totals. He scored six times on catches, gained seven yards on a kickoff return and seven yards on two reverses. In 48 games at Alabama, Hall started 39 times. He holds the school record with 194 receptions for 2,923 yards (15.1-yard average) and 17 touchdowns. He carried the ball nine times for 60 yards (6.7-yard average), lost one yard on two punt returns and totaled 196 yards on 10 kickoff returns (19.6 avg). On 215 touches, he finished his career with 3,177 all-purpose yards, an average of 66.19 all-purpose yards per game.

One of the more effective - but least heralded - players on a standout Virginia Tech defense, Parker started his freshman season at cornerback before moving to free safety as a sophomore and starting the next 32 games at the position. Parker has the speed and agility scouts look for at free safety, but he lacks the size and explosive hitting to rank among the position's top prospects.

Wolfe's switch from corner to strong safety for 2007 has cemented his position as a solid second-day pick. But he likely won't be selected any higher because more time is needed to discern if he's a corner/safety ?tweener or the combination safety teams need. Only time will tell. It was actually his second position change at Oklahoma, as he moved from running back to corner for his sophomore season. After a very successful honorable-mention All-Big 12 season there, he fell off the map in 2006.

An ascending talent who quickly established himself as one of the most productive safeties in the country, finishing with a team-leading 97 tackles as a junior - his first season as the full-time starter. Morgan flashed the potential a year earlier, ranking fourth on the team in stops despite only starting one game. Morgan has all the tools scouts are looking for, but with only one season as the full-time starter, he's a classic boom or bust selection.

Joe Paterno's first perfect season came in 1968, his third year of coaching the Nittany Lions. Ever since, the Penn State coaching staff has produced an incredible number of NFL-quality linebackers who had success at the next level. From Dennis Onkotz in 1968 to Paul Posluszny in 2006, Penn State boasted 16 linebackers garnering All-American first-team honors, with Onkontz ('68-69), Shane Conlan (1985-86), LaVar Arrington (1998-99) and Posluszny ('05-06) receiving that prestigious honor twice. At the end of his standout '07 season, Dan Connor became Joe Pa's Sweet 17th. In addition to his All-American selection, the PSU middle linebacker was the recipient of the Bednarik Award (top defensive player), was a finalist for the Butkus Award and set the school record with 419 career tackles while his 145 tackles in 2007 led the Big Ten Conference and ranked seventh in the nation. Connor comes from a family of football players. The Crime, Law and Justice major learned from his older brothers and became the third sibling to play in the collegiate ranks. Jim played football at Boston College and Mike played at Lehigh. But even before he stepped on the field at Penn State, Dan Connor earned national attention. At Strath Haven High School, Connor was a consensus All-American, and the four-year starter was selected the nation's top prep linebacker by Parade. He earned first-team All-American accolades from USA Today, Super Prep and numerous other media outlets. The 2003 Associated Press Big School Player-of-the-Year, Connor was named first-team All-State three times. He also earned All-Region, All-City, All-County and All-League honors. The captain and MVP of his team, Connor also won the Maxwell Football Club's prestigious Jim Henry Award as the Philadelphia Area Player-of-the-Year and was the Philadelphia Inquirer Southeastern Pennsylvania Player-of-the-Year as a senior. He totaled 4,556 rushing yards and 77 touchdowns during his prep career. Defensively, he made 451 tackles, 18 sacks, 16 interceptions and six fumble recoveries. As a senior, Connor rushed for 1,807 yards on 251 carries, for a spectacular 7.2-yard average, scoring 28 touchdowns. He was instrumental in Strath Haven winning the 2000 Pennsylvania Class AAA state championship and played in the AAA state title game in 2001 and '02. He played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in 2004 and also lettered in basketball and track, where he participated in the high jump, javelin, discus and shot put. Connor enrolled at Penn State in 2004, appearing in 10 games while earning four starting assignments. After lining up at outside linebacker most of the season, the Freshman All-American shifted to middle linebacker for the season's final three games, leading the team in tackles in each of those contests. In 558 plays, he finished second on the team with 85 tackles (50 solo), adding a sack, 4 1/2 stops for losses and an interception. During the 2005 offseason, Connor was charged with making prank phone calls to a former PSU assistant coach. Joe Paterno suspended the linebacker in August for his involvement in the incident, keeping him out of the lineup for the team's first three games. He started six of the nine contests in which he played, posting 76 tackles (38 solo), 1 1/2 sacks and 5 1/2 stops for losses, to go along with eight quarterback pressures from his right outside linebacker position. He also recovered a fumble that he returned for a score. In 2006, Connor gained national attention for his exploits on the football field, walking away with All-American and All-Big Ten Conference first-team honors. He combined with fellow All-American Paul Posluszny (116 tackles) to become the first Penn State tandem since Andre Collins (130) and Brian Chizmar (110) in 1989 to record more than 100 tackles in a season. The right linebacker started all 13 games, participating in 908 snaps. He finished second to Posluszny with 113 tackles (70 solo), addin

The comparisons with former Tech receiver and current New England Patriot Wes Welker are inevitable. Welker's success makes Amendola's slot receiver skill set more attractive to NFL scouts than ever. He'll likely test better in straight-line running drills than Welker did coming out of college, although he is not as strong or explosive with the ball. At any rate, Amendola made his own name as a second-team All-Big 12 receiver in 2007 with 109 catches for 1,245 yards. He also returned 116 punts for 1,283 yards (11.1 per) and a score in four years with those duties.

This small, quick back turned heads when getting the ball regularly in the Cowboys' potent offense. Accumulated 1,272 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in 2007 after 820 yards in an injury-hindered first year in Stillwater. The Mississippi Gulf Coast JC transfer has a shot to make a team as a change-of-pace back.

Spectacular open-field runner with the strong hands and potential as a route-runner to develop into a dangerous slot receiver at the next level. Reynaud operated as the third option for West Virginia, but with defenses focusing on the running attack, his ability as a receiver and big-play threat was the lightning rod that made the Mountaineer offense so versatile. Reynaud is shorter than scouts would like, but he has a strong build and plays with both toughness and physicality.

A meager passing attack by the Hurricanes belied Jenkins' resiliency and toughness in 2008. Possessing the strong build preferred by NFL scouts, Jenkins is a physical receiver who proved willing to go over the middle for the tough, clutch reception. He may lack the upside of former great Hurricane wideouts, but Jenkins' quickness and versatility as a return specialist made him Miami's MVP in 2008 and a late-round consideration for NFL scouts.

It took a year-long detour to junior college after signing with the Tigers out of high school, but Terrell finally made his mark. A two-year starter in Columbia, his size and speed are everything NFL scouts want to see. Unfortunately, his production has not matched his potential.

Robertson is one of the most important defensive players to wear a Yellow Jackets uniform since safety Pat Swilling (1982-85) terrorized opposing offenses. The talented pass rusher has outstanding speed coming off the edge and his ability to get into the opposing backfields helped the Yellow Jackets become one of college football's elite defensive units in 2007. His stellar play as a senior was a big reason Georgia Tech's run defense was so impressive. At Jonesboro High School, Robertson lettered four times in football and three times in basketball. He earned Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100 honors. He was rated the 21st-best prospect in the state of Georgia by Rivals.com, 26th by TheInsiders.com and 27th by Super Prep. He added first-team All-State Class AAAAA honors, in addition to receiving first-team All-Clayton/Henry County Area accolades by the Journal-Constitution. Robertson was rated the 16th-best defensive end in the nation by Rivals.com and the 25th-best defensive end by Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report and ESPN. The Prep Star All-Southeast Region selection had a banner senior campaign, as he registered 100 tackles, twelve sacks and 23 stops behind the line of scrimmage. As a true freshman, the 205-pound defensive end appeared in 12 games during the 2004 season at Georgia Tech, playing mostly on the kickoff coverage unit. He recorded five tackles (four solo) and in his most extensive action on defense, he also registered an eight-yard sack vs. Syracuse in the Champs Sports Bowl. The lanky defender spent a considerable amount of the 2005 offseason in the training room. He emerged as a rock-solid 230-pound edge rusher who lined up at left defensive end, starting four contests when Eric Henderson was injured. He collected 15 tackles (10 solo) with a 10-yard sack and eight quarterback pressures. He scored on a 28-yard interception return and deflected four passes. On 14 plays vs. the run, the opposition managed 18 yards on the ground vs. Robertson. He made nine third-down tackles and stopped opposing ballcarriers for no gain on three rushing attempts. In 2006, Robertson garnered All-Atlantic Coast Conference second-team honors from The NFL Draft Report. He was part of a three-man defensive rotation with Joseph Anoi and Adamm Oliver, starting 12 of 14 games. He recorded 55 tackles (33 solo) with three sacks, seven behind the line of scrimmage, and seven pressures while also deflecting one pass. Robertson helped the team rank 20th in the nation in rush defense (104.79 yards per game). He made 50 plays vs. the run, as the opposition managed only 80 yards total on the ground for the season vs. him. He also stopped opposing carriers four times for no gain. He produced 11 third-down stops and had another on fourth-down. Now playing at 245 pounds, Robertson exhibited tremendous explosion off the snap throughout 2007 preseason drills. That burst carried over to the season opener, as he terrorized the Notre Dame offense in a 33-3 Tech victory. He made seven plays vs. the run that saw the Irish lose 25 yards on those snaps. During the regular season, he made 33 tackles (22 solo) with 6 1/2 sacks and ranked third in the ACC with 16 stops for losses. He caused two fumbles and recovered two others, returning one for a touchdown. He produced 16 third-down stops and in 50 running plays directed at him, the left defensive end held the opposition to minus-57 yards. In 50 games at Georgia Tech, Robertson started 28 contests. He recorded 108 tackles (69 solo) with 11 1/2 sacks for minus 73 yards, 25 stops for losses of 113 yards and 26 quarterback pressures. On 101 running plays directed at him, the opposition gained only 33 yards (0.33-yard avg) with one first down. He also stopped opposing ballcarriers at the line of scrimmage 10 times. He produced 37 third-down stops and two more on fourth-down. He recovered two fumbles, returning one 32 yards for a touchdown and caused three fumbles. He defle

An intriguing athlete with NFL size and speed, Strong struggled until his senior season to make a positive impact for the Panthers. Developed into a legitimate receiving threat and an improved blocker after being known more in the past for his untapped potential and off-field indiscretions. Strong's improved maturity and production as a senior, however, as well as his obvious physical tools should earn him consideration in the middle rounds.