DRAFT TRACKER 2008

After starting 37 consecutive games at right tackle, Gosder Cherilus moved to the demanding left tackle position as a senior. It is an understatement to say that he struggled most of the year at that position. Penalties -- seven total and four vs. Notre Dame -- were his worst enemy. Cherlius allowed 5 1/2 quarterback sacks and four pressures, acceptable totals when the offense throws the ball 659 times in a season. With his limited change-of-direction agility, along with a solid reputation as a mauler for the ground game, Cherilus would welcome a return to right tackle at the next level. The Haitian is a tireless worker and with patient coaching, he could join the long line of steady Boston College offensive linemen now playing in the NFL. Cherilus closed out his career with 51 consecutive starts for the Eagles, establishing a new school record. Cherilus was a Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic selection as a senior at Somerville High School, where he played tackle on both sides of the ball. He was named to Tom Lemming's All-American team in 2002, the same season that he captured All-State accolades from the Massachusetts State Coaches Association. Cherilus also participated on Somerville's basketball and track teams. Cherilus spent the 2003 season at Boston College performing with the scout team, as the coaches afforded him an extra year to fully recover from right knee surgery. He was the only redshirt freshman to start on BC's offensive line in 2004, helping the team average 385.4 yards per game in total offense. As a sophomore, he started all 13 games at right tackle, delivering 53 knockdown blocks. The Eagles went on to lead the Atlantic Coast Conference in total offense, averaging 387.75 yards per game. In 2006, his drive-blocking skills saw the team have at least one 100-yard rusher in seven games. Cherilus made 79 knockdowns, along with 10 touchdown-resulting blocks. With the right tackle leading the way, the Eagles averaged 355.6 yards per game. He also made a key tackle vs. Navy in the Meineke Car Care Bowl. The recipient of the team's Unsung Hero Award in 2007, Cherilus also garnered All-Atlantic Coast Conference second-team honors. With the ground game a liability, the team took to the air, ranking seventh in the nation with an average of 323.9 passing yards per game. Even though he struggled with his timing, the left tackle came up with 77 knockdowns and 12 touchdown-resulting blocks in 14 games.

Harry Douglas might lack the ideal bulk you look for in a receiver. That hasn't made it any easier for defenders to tackle the 5-foot-11 receiver. Douglas has blazing speed and the explosive second gear to leave his opponent grabbing at air. He started just 19 of 46 games for the Cardinals, but was extremely productive and left his mark on school and Big East record books. His 10 100-yard receiving performances over the last two years rank tied for fifth in Big East Conference history. Douglas finished his career as the team's fifth all-time leading receiver, with 173 receptions, tied for sixth in Big East annals. His 2,924 yards receiving rank second in both school and league annals while his 15 touchdown catches rank seventh on Louisville's career chart. At Jonesboro High School, Douglas earned first team All-County and honorable mention All-State honors as a senior. He was named the top receiver in the region and one of only three players to receive all nine possible votes for first-team All-Region that season. He was also selected to the Clayton News Daily Southern Crest Super 11 squad, as he caught 40 passes for 831 yards and seven touchdowns during his final campaign. As a junior, Douglas added All-Region recognition for his 26 catches for 487 yards and five scores. He would close out his three-year career with 80 receptions for 1,539 yards and 14 touchdowns. A three-sport athlete who also lettered in baseball and basketball, he collected All-Region honors and was a state Top 15 hoops choice by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He averaged 20.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 3.0 steals as a senior for the fourth-ranked team in the state. Douglas enrolled at Louisville in 2003, but spent the entire season on the scout team. In 11 games as a reserve, he made five catches for 43 yards (8.6-yard average) and ran for a 65-yard touchdown in 2004. That year, he performed mostly on special teams, averaging 21.4 yards on nine kickoff returns while recording nine tackles (seven solo) and recovering a fumble. The talented receiver started two of UL's 12 games during 2005. He finished fourth on the team with 27 catches for 457 yards (16.9-yard average) and a pair of touchdowns. He picked up 37 yards on six reverses (6.2 avg), threw one pass for an interception and returned seven kickoffs for 142 yards (20.3 avg). On special teams, he posted seven tackles (five solo). Douglas started seven games while appearing in 13 in 2006, earning All-Big East Conference first-team honors. He led the team and league in receptions (5.38 per game) and yards receiving per game (97.31 yards per game). He hauled in 70 passes for a single-season record 1,265 yards (18.1-yard average) and six touchdowns. On the ground, he ran for 49 yards on seven tries (7.0 avg), returned three punts for 16 yards, had a three-yard kickoff return and made one solo tackle. A right ankle sprain in the fourth game vs. Syracuse would sideline Douglas for two games and hamper him the rest of the season. He picked up second-team All-American and first-team All-Big East recognition, ranking 12th nationally and first in the conference with an average of 7.1 receptions per game. Douglas finished third in the nation with an average of 115.9 yards receiving per contest, as he again paced the squad with 71 catches for 1,159 yards (16.3-yard average) and seven scores, becoming just the fourth player in school history to catch 70 passes in a season twice and just the third to gain over 1,000 yards in a season twice. He finished the year with 1,183 all-purpose yards in 10 contests at split end. In 46 games at Louisville, Douglas started 19 contests. He caught 173 passes (fifth in school history) for 2,924 yards (second in UL and Big East history) for a 16.9-yard average and 15 touchdowns. He carried 19 times for 162 yards (8.5-yard average) and a score, adding 354 yards on 18 kickoff returns (19.7 avg) and 16 yards on six punt returns (2.7 avg)

With the likes of Adrian Peterson, Malcolm Kelly and Sam Bradford grabbing headlines, it was easy for Joe Jon Finley to fly under the radar during his time with the Sooners. The two-year starter displayed naturally soft hands and the ability to come up with the clutch catch in traffic during his two years as a starter, giving Bradford a security blanket and solid red-zone target. Finley's brother, Matt, was a defensive back at Nebraska. Both of his brothers spent their high school days playing for their father, Mickey, who coached at Arlington High School. Joe Jon Finley was an all-around athlete at Arlington, competing in football and track. He started at quarterback as a junior and senior and at tight end as a sophomore, leading the team to a 12-2 record with district and bi-district championships for a second straight year as a senior. He was an All-District and All-Area tight end in 2000 and named an All-State utility player by Dave Campbell's Texas Football as a senior. The two-time All-District quarterback added District Offensive Most Valuable Player honors in 2002. He was rated the 24th-best quarterback in the country by Super Prep and the 32nd-best athlete in the nation by both The Sporting News and Rivals.com. He was also a hurdler on the track team, qualifying for the state meet in the 110-meter hurdles as a senior and in the discus during his last two years. Finley passed for 1,626 yards and rushed for 897 as a senior, completing 82-of-168 passes with 12 touchdowns in his final prep season. He also rushed for nine scores and averaged 6.6 yards per carry. As a junior, he passed for 1,200 yards and rushed for 900 more. Recruited as an athlete, the 210-pound Finley spent the 2003 season with the scout team at Oklahoma. The time spent in the weight room that year saw the talented youngster arrive at 2004 fall camp with a chiseled 245-pound frame. He spent that year playing behind James Moses at tight end. In limited action over 12 games, he snatched seven passes for 94 yards (13.4-yard average) and one touchdown. As a sophomore, Finley again caddied for Moses, starting vs. Tulsa and UCLA in a two-tight end formation. In 11 games, he had 13 catches for 150 yards (11.5-yard average) and a pair of touchdowns. He also made one solo tackle, as he excelled in the classroom, earning Academic All-Big Twelve Conference honors. With Moses graduated, Finley took over tight end chores as a junior, starting all 14 games in 2006. The All-Big Twelve Conference honorable mention, snared 19 passes for 241 yards (12.7-yard average), finding the end zone three times. He recovered a fumble and posted an assisted tackle on special teams. Finley again garnered All-Big Twelve honorable mention as a senior. He amassed 290 yards with four touchdowns on 23 receptions (12.6-yard average). He also increased his workload on special teams, registering a pair of tackles and returning two kickoffs for 23 yards. In 51 games at Oklahoma, Finley earned 29 starting assignments. He hauled in 62 passes for 775 yards (12.5-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. He recorded four tackles (two solo) and recovered a fumble, adding two kickoff returns for 23 yards (11.5 avg).

"Ike" was a first team All-Big Ten pick each of the past two seasons, but will need a patient team to get drafted. He'll likely miss the entire '08 season, and when he returns he may have to prove he can make the switch to safety.

Tenacious and scrappy, Williams receives little press playing at Kent State. Opponents know him, though, and stayed away from him as much as possible. Scouts also know him as a potential slot corner who matches up well with the Wes Welker's of the league. A perfect candidate for the traditional speedy, smaller corner picked in the late third/early fourth round of most drafts (e.i. Rashad Bauman, Scott Starks, John Bowie).

Regarded as the best receiving fullback in college football, Jacob Hester did a stellar job playing halfback during the Tigers' national championship march in 2007. Hester was capable of filling almost role coaches asked. As a freshman and sophomore, he was mostly a blocker on offense, but he also made a name for himself as a fierce tackler on kick-coverage units. At Evangel Christian High School, Hester was regarded as the state's top fullback, earning Louisiana Class 5A Offensive MVP honors in 2002. A member of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100 team, he led his team to a pair of state titles. He rushed for 868 yards on 182 carries and 22 touchdowns en route to the Class 5A state champion-ship game in 2003, as he also made 47 catches for 523 yards and four scores. As a junior, Hester rushed for 1,593 yards on 222 attempts with 24 touchdowns to spearhead the Eagles to the state title in 2002. He also caught 24 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns. As a true freshman at Louisiana State, Hester started vs. Georgia while appearing in 11 games for the offense in 2004. He managed just 123 yards on 20 carries (6.2-yard average) and 21 yards on two catches (10.5 avg). Where he made a name for himself was on special teams, delivering nine tackles (five solo). He continued to excel on the coverage units in 2005, twice being named the Tigers' Special Teams Player of the Week. He started vs. Arkansas and appeared in 13 games on offense, totaling 114 yards with two touchdowns on 25 attempts (4.6-yard average). He snared 11 passes for 63 yards, returned a short kick five yards and fielded one punt for an 11-yard return. He picked off a pass for a 22-yard return vs. North Texas, blocked one kick and registered 11 tackles (five solo). Whether lining up at halfback or fullback, Hester went on to start all 13 games in 2006. He led the team with a paltry 440 yards on 94 carries (4.7-yard average), running for six touchdowns. He finished fourth on the squad with 35 receptions for 269 yards (7.7-yard average) and three scores, adding seven special teams tackles (six solo). Just minutes after LSU beat Arkansas on Nov. 24, Hester proposed to his girlfriend outside War Memorial Stadium. They married in the summer prior to his senior year. Hester garnered All-Southeastern Conference second-team honors in 2007. He took over halfback duties full-time, rushing for a career-high 1,103 yards and 12 touchdowns on 225 attempts (4.9-yard average). He caught 14 passes for 106 yards (7.6 avg) and a score, as he also posted eight tackles (4 solos), causing a fumble that he recovered on special teams. In 51 games at Louisiana State, Hester started 29 contests. He carried 364 times for 1,780 yards (4.9-yard average) and 20 touchdowns, fumbling just once during his career. He gained 459 yards with four scores on 62 receptions (7.4 avg), five yards on a kickoff return, 11 yards on a punt return and 22 yards on an interception return. He registered 35 tackles (20 solo) with a fumble recovery, a forced fumble and one blocked kick. Hester made a big impression on scouts during practices at the Senior Bowl. San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Nolan said he would highly recommend Hester to anyone -- and maybe himself. "He's an interesting guy," Nolan, the coach of the South team for the Senior Bowl game, said at a press conference following the last full practices for both teams. "Those kinds of guys typically play. They play for a good while, and they help teams win a lot of games." Hester's versatility and "it" factor made him a cult figure in Baton Rouge. "Sometimes you're hoping a guy is that kind of guy when you really don't know," Nolan said. "But what I've seen in college of him, a couple of things tell me that he will be that guy. Number one, I believe he was a key player on the national championship team. I would be shocked if he's not a damn good NFL player for that reason alone. I don't care what they

Few players in college football can boast the academic and athletic success that Tamme had at Kentucky. The first tight end in school history to be named first-team All-Southeastern Conference twice, Tamme (Danville, Ky.) completed his bachelor's degree in Integrated Strategic Communications with a 3.82 GPA in just three semesters. He continued toward a Master's in Business Administration and carried a GPA of 3.83 in graduate school. An Academic All-American choice of the College Sports Information Directors of America, Tamme was also a three-time ESPN/CoSIDA Academic All-District pick. He was a 2007 Draddy Award finalist, one college football's most sought after and competitive awards, which recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the country for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary community leadership. Tamme is a volunteer peer instructor for summer orientation classes and visits UK's Children's Hospital and the Veterans Administration Hospital for numerous events. On the football field, he often was the go-to receiver in clutch situations, with crucial receptions in the wins over Louisville, Louisiana State, and Vanderbilt as a senior. He would close out his Wildcats career as the all-time leading pass catcher among UK tight ends and second in SEC history, hauling in 133 passes for 1,417 yards (10.7-yard average) and 11 touchdowns. Tamme was a rangy wide receiver and defensive back at Boyle County High School. He was a first-team All-State by the Associated Press and Louisville Courier-Journal as a senior, when he nabbed 46 passes for 797 yards (17.3-yard average) and 13 touchdowns. A finalist for "Mr. Football" in Kentucky, he was chosen for the Lexington Herald-Leader "Class of the Commonwealth," which honors the top 22 state of Kentucky seniors. A four-year letterman and three-year starter at wide receiver and cornerback, helping the team to four consecutive state championships, two in Class AA and two in Class AAA, as the squad compiled a sterling 58-2 record over those four seasons. He was named Most Valuable Player of the state championship games as both a junior and senior. He added All-Southeast Region honors and was rated one of the top 75 wide receivers in the nation, and the seventh-best overall prospect in Kentucky by Rivals.com/Prep Star magazine. He was also the eighth-ranked prospect in the state according to Super Prep. Tamme had 97 receptions for 1,866 yards (19.2-yard average) and 32 touchdowns for his career. He intercepted 23 passes on defense, including two returns for touchdowns, and returned 25 punts for 395 yards (15.8-yard average) and two touchdowns. An indication of his quickness and good hands, he played shortstop, an unusual position for a person with his height. He batted .475 as a junior and played in the Kentucky East-West All-Star Game for high school juniors. The multi-sport star was an all-region performer in basketball and an Academic All-State choice in football and basketball. He was very active in school activities, a member of the student council and Beta Club and also served as editor of the school newspaper. "Jacob is a great football player with great skills. He is also is a great leader. That's what separates him from the rest," Boyle County coach Chuck Smith said. Tamme enrolled at Kentucky as a wide receiver in 2003, choosing the university over scholarship offers from Northwestern, Louisville, West Virginia, and Indiana. He spent his first season playing on the scout team and then saw action in 11 games, including four starts, as a receiver in 2004. He went on to catch 16 passes for 161 yards (10.1-yard average) and a pair of scores. His final starting assignment came at tight end, moving to that position for the Tennessee clash. In 2005, Tamme started 10 of 11 contests at tight end. He snared 29 passes for 251 yards (8.7 avg) and a touchdown. He also provided value on special teams, as the backup holder blocked t

One of the most decorated offensive linemen in the storied history of the Michigan program, the two-time team captain became the first Wolverine and only the fourth player ever to garner Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honors in consecutive seasons. By doing so, Long joined Ohio State's Orlando Pace (1995-96) and Korey Stringer (1993-94) and Michigan State's Tony Mandarich (1987-88). The senior offensive tackle gave Michigan three Offensive Lineman of the Year awards in the last four seasons, as David Baas was honored in 2004. Other Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honorees from Michigan include guard Steve Hutchinson (2000) and tackles Jon Jansen (1998) and Greg Skrepenak (1991). Even though their hopes for a national title were dashed in an upset loss to Division 1-AA Appalachian State in their season opener, the Wolverines were grateful that their offensive leader returned to the playing field for the 2007 season. After his junior campaign, Long was seriously considering filing early for the NFL Draft. Being very close to tailback Mike Hart, both juniors made the decision to return for their final campaign. "It was best for me and for the team to stay another year," Long said. "I looked into it a little bit, but I never was close to leaving. I really want my degree, and we have unfinished business as a team." Apparently, Hart was prepared to follow Long into the NFL a year early, too. "When we were making our decision last year, he came up to me and said if I'm leaving, then he's going to leave,'' Long said at the Big Ten Conference 2007 preseason convention. "If I stay, then he's going to stay.'' As he spoke, Long glanced at the table in the Hyatt Regency Hotel meeting room where Hart was surrounded by reporters. "You can't lose your right tackle (and) lose your left tackle and come back and have the same season you had the year before,'' Hart noted. Michigan coach Lloyd Carr admitted he had his doubts at a certain stage in the decision-making process. "Jake Long, I thought at one point was going to leave. I always meet with the seniors the Monday after Ohio State to talk about what their plans are, because it impacts recruiting. Jake Long, on that day, he was undecided (whether to turn pro),'' Carr recalled. "But when he came back, the first reason, he said, 'I'm just not ready to leave college and my teammates.' That speaks to who he is. How many guys would turn that down? ... Mike Hart, he never hesitated. Henne talked about graduating and a championship. You want guys like that.'' Long decided to protect himself financially in case he got hurt before the league's 2008 draft arrives. After getting guidance from recruiting coordinator Chris Singletary - who previously worked with the sports agent firm IMG - Long purchased an insurance policy. "(I did it) just so I can go out there and not worry about getting injured,'' he said. "I just go out there and focus on football and not worry about the repercussions of getting hurt.'' At Lapeer East High School, Long was a three-year starter on the offensive line. He was ranked the 17th-best player on the Detroit Free Press Best of the Midwest team and rated the 22nd-best offensive lineman in the nation by Collegefootballnews.com. Prep Football Report rated Long the 12th-best offensive tackle in the country and he was ranked as the 21st-best offensive tackle by Rivals100.com, who gave him a four-star prospect grade. Max Emfinger's Recruiting Service rated Long the nation's fifth-best offensive tackle, as he earned All-American and All-Midwest honors from Super Prep. He was ranked as the second-best player in Michigan on the Detroit News Blue Chip list and named to Prep Star's All-Midwest Region squad. He was also selected to the Detroit News, Detroit Free Press and Lansing State Journal Dream Team squads, as he became the first player in school history to earn All-State first-team honors. An all-conference first-team offensive and

Parmele confirmed his status as a late-round or priority free agent with a solid 2007 campaign. He was first-team All-MAC with 1,511 yards and 14 touchdowns, plus an average of 28.0 yards on 20 kickoff returns with one score. He's a larger back that NFL teams using a power scheme may find intriguing as a reliable backup and short-yardage specialist, possibly more.

Charles signed with the University of Texas as one of the elite prep running back talents in the country. Blessed with good size and spectacular speed, it didn't take long for Charles to make an impact for the Longhorns, as he earned the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in rushing for 878 yards and 11 rushing touchdowns despite starting only three games. Charles was equally effective as a sophomore, earning Second Team Big 12 honors in rushing for 831 yards and scoring eight touchdowns despite again splitting carries. Charles lived up to high expectations in 2007, leading the Big 12 in rushing with 1,458 yards, the fifth-highest single-season total in school history. With 2007 being his first season as the full-time starter, it is impressive to note that Charles got stronger as the season wore on, averaging 180 yards over the final five games and rushing for 161 yards and two TDs in Texas' Holiday Bowl win over Arizona State. Charles doesn't appear to be as big as the 6-foot-1, 200-pound listing he's given by Texas, but is a well-built back who bounces off tacklers. His primary characteristic, of course, is his pure speed. A classic slasher, Charles reads the action well and has the patience to run behind his blocks. He explodes into the second level and has legitimate breakaway possibilities every time he touches the ball. The backs don't necessarily catch a lot of passes in Texas' offense, but Charles has proven himself to be capable, averaging 17 catches a season over his career. Of concern is that Charles has only one full season as a starter and has struggled with fumbles. His upside is unmistakable, however, which will lead to his being a first-day selection.

Adams is a no-nonsense safety who is physical and aggressive but only adequate in terms of athleticism and deep speed. He has a chance to excel on a team that allows his in-the-box skills to shine, but will struggle if forced into a coverage-heavy scheme.

A stout, physical hitter, McClain saw time at defensive end and inside linebacker throughout his career with the Orangemen, with scouts divided on just where he fits best at the next level. Possesses the unique skill set to potentially serve as both - and the inconsistency to never make it at either.

His physique is not reminiscent of the Greek gods, but Blair has raised some scouts' eyebrows this year as a strong, tough presence on the right side. A first-team All-MAC performer in his second year as starter at right tackle in 2007, he will likely move inside to guard in the NFL to take advantage of his skill set.

James Hardy was a coveted basketball prospect. A 185-pound Elmhurst High School product arrived in Bloomington intent on taking part in IU's hoops legacy in 2004. After one season with that team, the lanky athlete decided to commit to the gridiron. By the time he decided to leave for the National Football League three years later, he had shattered the school's season and career receiving records. Hardy is the only wide receiver in Indiana history to surpass 2,500 yards, 175 receptions and 35 touchdowns. He finished his career with 36 scores on 191 catches, good for 2,740 yards. He also made a significant contribution on the basketball team as a freshman. During the 2004-05 campaign, he played in 23 games, starting three times, as he averaged 1.7 points, 1.8 rebounds and 10.7 minutes per contest. Hardy was a two-sport standout at Fort Wayne Elmhurst High School, where he was named All-SAC as a wide receiver after making 34 catches for 731 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior. Following his final campaign, he was a Class 4A All-State selection by the Indiana Football Coaches Association. Hardy is the all-time leading scorer in Fort Wayne high school history. He was a two-time recipient of the Tiffany Gooden Award, given to the most out-standing male or female player in The Summit Athletic Conference, as chosen by The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette. Hardy led the team to a Class AAA state runner-up finish in 2002-03 after averaging 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists. As a senior, Hardy averaged 27.3 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists, as the team finished with a 16-8 record. He was rated the 78th-best prep basketball player in the nation on the Insiders.com Top 100 squad. After spending the 2004 football season with the scout team and the 2004-05 campaign with the basketball squad, Hardy concentrated strictly on football in 2005. He earned second-team All-Big Ten Conference honors, in addition to being a member of Rivals.com's Freshman All-American team. Hardy started five of 10 games he appeared in at split end, missing the Michigan clash with a strained Achilles tendon. He led the Big Ten with an average of 89.3 yards per game receiving in 2005. His 61 catches rank third on the school's single-season record list, as he totaled 893 yards with 10 touchdowns. On the field, Hardy had an equally impressive performance in 2006 as he did during his redshirt freshman season. But off the field, trouble followed. He was arrested on May 19 on charges of domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of a crime, after his girlfriend accused him of hitting her and the couple's infant child. Hardy pleaded not guilty to the charges and later accepted a court's offer in Fort Wayne to settle his case through a pretrial diversion agreement. By accepting the program, he had to comply with the conditions of the agreement and pay court costs. He also apologized to his teammates and IU in his statement. There were problems with Hardy and Indiana's late head coach Terry Hoeppner. After the second game of the 2006 season, the two met privately, resulting in the coach suspending Hardy for two games (vs. Southern Illinois and Connecticut). When Hardy returned to the lineup, he was rusty from his layoff and was flagged for critical offensive pass interference on the Hoosiers' opening drive of the Wisconsin clash, finishing with an eight-yard catch for the day. He soon got back into his rhythm, catching at least five passes in six of his last seven games, finishing with 51 receptions for 722 yards (14.2-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. As a junior, Hardy received several All-American first-team honors, in addition earned All-Big Ten Conference accolades. He led the team and ranked second in the league, as he set school season-records with 79 catches for 1,125 yards (14.2-yard average) and 16 touchdowns. In 36 games at Indiana, Hardy started 26 contests. He finished his career by hauling in 191 passes for

Playing for a smaller FBS school in the MAC does not lend itself to great publicity. But Richard's play over the past three years put him on scouts' radars before the season, and his 2007 effort did not disappoint. A zone-blocking team will appreciate his blend of athleticism and attitude.

The pulse of the Eagles' defense, few safeties make plays downhill like Silva did at Boston College. He is a versatile defender with experience at both free and strong safety and is the team's active leader with 302 career tackles. He established himself as one of college football's elite kickoff coverage defenders. On that unit, he shows a penchant for making big plays and competed with reckless abandon that reminds professional scouts of former Buffalo Bills standout Steve Tasker. Silva tallied 38 tackles with a pair of fumble recoveries on special teams during his career. Silva was a four-sport standout at East Providence High School, where he earned Rhode Island Player of the Year honors from the Providence Gridiron Club in 2002. A two-time All-State selection during his final two seasons, he added 2002 Rhode Island Golden Dozen Team accolades. He was a four-year, two-way starter, competing as a running back and safety, joining his brother, Steve on the varsity squad during his first two years. Jamie Silva also handled return duties and saw action as a linebacker. Steve Silva was named USA Today Rhode Island State Player of the Year and Gatorade Rhode Island Player of the Year at East Providence High, where he was also a two-time All-State and All-League selection. A three-time All-Area honoree, he rushed for over 3,000 yards and scored 47 touchdowns during his career. He went on to Holy Cross, where he earned first-team All-American honors from the American Football Coaches Association and the Sports Network, in addition to being named the Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year and the Patriot League Special Teams Player of the Year as a senior. He finished his career with 615 carries for 2,646 yards (4.3-yard average) and 32 touchdowns, adding 1,180 yards and two scores on 154 catches, 480 yards and two touchdowns on 28 punt returns (17.1 avg) and 817 yards with a score on 34 kickoff returns (24.0 avg). He ranks second in school history with 5,123 all-purpose yards, as he also completed 4 of 8 passes for 71 yards and three scores. Jamie Silva ran for more than 4,500 yards, including 2,100 in his senior season, as he scored 29 touchdowns in 2002 and 49 touchdowns in his four years with the varsity. He also had 16 interceptions and more than 300 tackles in his career, leading the team to the state Division I title in 1999 and 2002. The team captain was chosen MVP as a senior and was also a three-time All-Area and four-time All-Division selection. Silva competed as a forward on the basketball team and handled shot put, hammer and relay duties for the track squad. He also lettered in baseball. Instead of following his older brother to Holy Cross, Jamie Silva enrolled at Boston College in 2003, spending the season on the scout team as a strong safety. Silva was one of only a handful of BC players to make their collegiate debut in the starting lineup, as he started the first three of 12 games in 2004 games at strong safety. He finished ninth on the team with 43 tackles (21 solo), as he picked off a pass and deflected another. Showing his great feel for the ball, he recovered three fumbles and caused another, delivering nine tackles (seven solo) with two fumble recoveries on special teams. Silva was an All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention in 2005, as he started nine (two at strong safety, seven at free safety) of 12 contests. He led the Eagles with 87 tackles (60 solo), including a sack and 5 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage; he batted away two passes and intercepted another. He also made eight tackles (five solo) on special-teams coverage units. As a junior, Silva started all 12 games in which he played, sitting out the Maine game after he suffered a left knee strain vs. North Carolina State. He ranked third on the squad with 57 tackles (37 solo), including one sack and 6 1/2 stops for losses. He also intercepted four passes and deflected another, coming up with six tackles on specia

Jones often dominates against lesser competition in the Mid-American Conference. He has been versatile enough to play inside and outside for the Eagles, but projects outside at power end in the NFL. Scouts have certainly taken notice as he has put up 50 tackles for loss the past three seasons. Getting over a knee sprain and moving outside may put him into the top 100. Not bad for a guy who failed as a tight end his freshman year due to poor hands.

Despite eye-popping statistics, Rivers struggled to emerge from the shadows cast by quarterback Colt Brennan and fellow receiver Davone Bess. Though the least recognized by the media of Hawaii's draft-worthy skill position prospects, Rivers is an intriguing late-round prospect. Not only does he possess the more prototypical size to make the transition to the NFL, Rivers also features the strong hands, body control and quickness to make a roster.

One of the quickest receivers in this year's class, Johnson is explosive as a receiver and return man. He caught 66 balls for 1,140 yards (17.3 per) and nine touchdowns and averaged 10.9 on 43 punt returns (with two scores) in his last two seasons. He couldn't crack the All-SWAC teams, but Johnson will have a great chance at achieving two other goals: being an NFL draft pick and making a NFL roster.

Otah played only two seasons at Pittsburgh, but many rank him with the elite offensive tackles produced by the school over the last two decades. He is a road grader in the mold of former All-Americans Jimbo Covert (1979-82), Mark May (1977-80), Bill Fralic (1981-84) and Ruben Brown (1991-94), all of whom enjoyed productive NFL careers. Called the "best blocker I've ever coached," by Pitt head coach Dave Wannstedt, Otah served as offensive captain for one of college football's best running attacks as a senior. Otah concentrated mostly on basketball, lettering twice at William Penn High School. As a senior, football coach Bill Cole convinced Otah to compete in football and he started in his only year on the team. Because of a lack of playing experience, he was not recruited coming out of the prep ranks and enrolled at Valley Forge Military Academy in 2004. At Valley Forge, Otah started 17 consecutive games over two seasons, where he was rated the 26th-best junior college offensive lineman by Scout.com and 31st by Rivals.com. He was a two-time All-Seaboard Conference choice and was selected the league's Most Valuable Player in 2003. He led the team to a pair of conference co-championships and also lettered twice in basketball. He averaged nearly 19 points and 12 rebounds per game during his hoops career at Valley Forge. Otah enrolled at Pittsburgh and immediately took over the demanding left tackle position in 2006. He started all 12 games, delivering 91 knockdowns with 13 touchdown-resulting blocks. He allowed four sacks and one quarterback pressure while recording one solo tackle and recovering a pair of fumbles. The winner of the team's Ed Conway Award in 2007, given to the team's most improved player, Otah garnered All-Big East Conference honors as a senior. He produced 101 knockdowns, with 13 of those blocks leading to touchdowns. He finished with an 82% grade for blocking consistency, allowing four pressures and 8 1/2 stops for losses.

The latest example of a player with a halfback's mentality stuck in a fullback's body, Caulcrick is a productive interior runner who enjoyed a breakout senior campaign, scoring 21 rushing touchdowns for the Spartans. Caulcrick has the size and explosiveness as a short-yardage runner to remain at running back, but his lack of speed and elusiveness make his best shot at the NFL as a fullback. To do so, he'll have to demonstrate more tenacity and strength as a blocker.

An undersized pass rusher with strong NFL bloodlines, Geathers quickly established himself as one of the top edge threats in the Mountain West Conference after transferring to UNLV following a year at Butler Community College. A classic edge rusher, Geathers has the burst off the snap to put the offensive tackle back on his heels, but lacks the size and strength to rank as more than a situational pass rusher at this time.

The versatile linebacker found a home in the middle of the Illini defense two years ago, posting 248 tackles in his final two seasons in Champaign. His blue-collar work ethic and knack for being in the right position to make the play saw the team compile a 9-4 record and earn a berth in the prestigious Rose Bowl in his final campaign. Leman began his career as a strong-side linebacker, taking over weak-side linebacker chores as a sophomore. With the arrival of Ron Zook as head coach, the coaches felt that Leman's field instincts and high intelligence were perfectly suited for calling defensive signals from the middle. Being a "student of the game" is one of Leman's best traits, but he has also excelled in the classroom. He graduated in August 2006 with a degree in speech communications in only three years at the university. He later received his master's degree in Human Resource Education in December 2007. Leman is considered a high-character athlete. He is active in the Vineyard Christian Fellowship and regularly visited hospitals and schools as part of the Illini community program. His ultimate career goal is to become a sports anchor or television personality following graduation. The way he played the last two seasons, Leman caught the attention of NFL scouts, but during the Rose Bowl, he suffered an ankle injury that required surgery in late January, and he might have to put his aspirations to play in the National Football League on hold. At Champaign Central High School, Leman was an All-State selection by the Champaign News-Gazette and the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association. He was named the Area Player of the Year by the Champaign News-Gazette and ranked among the Top- 100 inside linebackers in the country, according to Rivals.com. He was also tabbed an All-Conference and All-Area pick as a junior. Leman went on to earn a total of eight letters in football, track and basketball. He recorded 356 tackles during his career, including making 191 hits during his senior season. That year, he also added 26 stops behind the line of scrimmage, nine sacks, three blocked punts, five forced fumbles and an interception. Leman enrolled at the University of Illinois in 2003, becoming the first Central High player to join their football team since Greg Boysaw in 1985. He spent that season performing on the scout team as an inside linebacker. In 2004, he appeared in 11 games, starting five contests, including the final four, at strong-side outside linebacker. He posted 56 tackles (28 solos) with 1.5 sacks and three stops for losses. He also caused a fumble and broke up one pass, earning Freshman All-Big Ten Conference honors from The Sporting News. In 2005, Leman was named the team's Outstanding Linebacker, adding CoSIDA Academic All-District and Academic All-Big Ten Conference honors. He started all 11 games at weak-side linebacker and made 140 appearances on special teams. He ranked second on the team with 67 tackles (37 solo) and 5.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage. As a junior, Leman was named team captain. He was a first-team All-Big Ten Conference and All-American honorable mention while again garnering national academic honors. In his new position at middle linebacker, he ranked third in the nation and led the league with 152 tackles (75 solo), the sixth-highest season total in school history. His 19 stops for losses also rank sixth on the Illini's single-season record list and placed him seventh in the nation. He added four sacks with five quarterback pressures and also caused two fumbles while breaking up four passes. The postseason honors were numerous for Leman again in 2007. He was named All-American and All-Big Ten Conference first-team and was a finalist for both the Ronnie Lott Award and Danny Weurffel Award. He again led the Illini with 132 tackles (71 solo) that included 2.5 sacks and 10.5 stops for losses. He also caused a fumble, intercepted one pass and batted awa

Teams looking for a run-defending presence at left defensive end will have to keep Thompson in mind. He certainly looks the part physically, and has the strength and high effort to contribute early in his career. He lacks burst off the snap, however, and with marginal use of his hands he is only an adequate pass rusher overall.

A versatile offensive lineman with experience at both guard and tackle positions, Zuttah has the combination of quickness, instincts and nastiness scouts are looking for. Despite having not given up a sack since 2005, Zuttah may struggle to find a starting niche at the next level as he is viewed as a bit of a 'tweener. Still, this four-year starter has proven dependable throughout his career for the Scarlet Knights and could prove to be a late-round find as a valuable swingman.

Leaving after only his redshirt sophomore season, many college football fans haven't had much of an opportunity to watch Finley in action. Scouts, however, are quite high on Finley's upside. A sure-handed pass catcher with the body control and competitiveness to make the tough catch and the athleticism to make defenders miss, Finley is an improving blocker with the physicality and determination to eventually stand out in this area. Finley's upside is as high as any tight end in the 2008 draft.

An athletic linebacker who made the move from outside to inside linebacker last season with spectacular results -- earning first team SEC accolades in leading the conference with 140 tackles. Mayo's speed and size may cause scouts to consider moving him back outside at the next level, but he seemed to gain more and more confidence at his new position as the season wore on, averaging 15 tackles over his final four games.

Felton has quietly developed into one of the most dominant scoring machines in college football. Blessed with the quickness and lateral agility of a tailback, this bruising runner inside the red zone has outstanding body lean, as he was tackled behind the line of scrimmage only 15 times during his career for minus-22 yards on 575 rushing attempts while scoring 63 times on the ground. The school's all-time record holder in scoring with 414 points, he also excels in the classroom, twice earning Southern Conference academic accolades with a 3.25 grade point average in Political Science. Born in Duren, West Germany, where his mother, Sabrina Felton-Curtis was a former professional gymnast, Jerome took the ACT as a seventh grader as part of Duke University's Talent Search program. His score was high enough to allow him to enroll in summer and night courses at Hiwassee College, where between the seventh and 11th grades he completed 19 hours of college credit courses. At Class AAA Sequoyah High School, Felton excelled as a fullback and middle linebacker, Earning team Offensive Most Valuable Player honors three times. He was also a three-time All-County and All-Region choice, rushing for more than 3,000 yards and recording more than 300 tackles in his three-year career. Felton served as team captain as a senior, rushed for 1,300 yards and finished second on his team with 104 tackles. He was named an All-American Scholar and an Outstanding African-American Student of Tennessee, in addition to receiving the 2001-02 United States National Minority Leadership Award. He is listed in the Who's Who Among American High School Students and was the recipient of Sequoyah High School's Academic Excellence Award. Felton enrolled at Furman in 2004, turning down scholarship offers from Tennessee Tech and Duke. That year, he appeared in every game, starting the final seven at fullback. He shared Furman Freshman of the Year honors with strong safety Andrew Thacker, as Felton ranked fourth on the team in rushing with 300 yards on 66 carries (4.5 avg), led the team with 10 touchdowns on the ground and finished second in scoring with 70 points. He snared five passes for 51 yards (10.2 avg) and a score and also posted an assisted tackle. In 2005, Felton garnered Academic All-Southern Conference honors, adding first-team overall accolades. Despite suffering a right index fracture early in the season, he ranked 13th nationally and second in the league in scoring with a school season-record 124 points, an average of 8.86 points per game. He ran for 18 touchdowns and caught two other passes for scores, as he rushed 182 times for 940 yards (5.2 avg). He also made 18 catches for 144 yards (8.0 avg) and averaged 77.4 all-purpose yards per game while recovering one fumble. As a junior, Felton broke his own school season-record and ranked fourth in the nation in scoring with 140 points, an average of 11.67 points per game. He appeared in 12 games, sitting out the Appalachian State game after suffering a right ankle sprain the week prior vs. Chattanooga. He finished second on the team with 707 yards on 162 carries (4.4 avg), including 23 touchdowns. He gained 85 yards on 13 catches (6.5 avg) and had one solo tackle. He also averaged 66.0 all-purpose yards per game. Felton was the only Division 1-AA player listed on USA Today/Sports Weekly's preseason All-American team in 2007. He went on to lead the team in rushing with 705 yards and 12 touchdowns on 165 carries (4.2 avg). He also caught 11 passes for 59 yards (5.4 avg) and a score, finishing with 80 points for the season. The Furman fullback started 43 of 48 games for the Paladins. He holds the school rushing records for fullbacks with 2,652 yards on 575 carries (4.6 avg). He set the Furman career-records with 63 touchdowns on the ground, 67 total touchdowns and 414 points scored. He snatched 46 passes for 334 yards (7.3 avg) and amassed 2,986 all-purpose yards on 621 touches, an average

Unquestionably the face of the Chanticleers' program, Simpson brought the young program into the national spotlight with a sensational junior campaign. The school record-holder for game, season and career marks in receptions, yardage and touchdowns, he produced 11 multiple-touchdown performances in 41 games. Simpson holds the Big South Conference career-record with 2,430 yards receiving, including a Big South season-record 1,077 yards in 2006, a year he also set the league mark with 16 touchdown catches. At Reidsville High School, Simpson earned Class AA All-State honors and was a runner-up for Class 2-AA Mr. NCHSAA Football honors as a senior. He added All-State accolades during his junior season. He led the team to back-to-back Class AA state titles, setting a championship game-record with 13 catches for 133 yards, while also throwing a 62-yard scoring strike to earn Most Valuable Player honors in his final year. He would go on to play in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas and also competed in the East-West game. In his final campaign, Simpson hauled in 96 passes for 1,324 yards (13.8-yard average) and 14 touchdowns, despite missing three games with an injury. The school's all-time leading receiver amassed almost 3,000 receiving yards during his last two seasons. He also lettered in basketball and track. He led the hoops squad to its first state title as a senior, scoring 19 points in the championship game to garner MVP honors. He also ran on the school's 4x400-meter relay team that captured the state title (3:21). As a true freshman at Coastal Carolina in 2004, Simpson earned Big South Conference Freshman of the Year honors and was named Big South Freshman of the Week three times during the season (vs. Morehead State, Davidson and Charleston), where he posted his first career 100-yard receiving game. He started all 11 games, coming up with 26 receptions for 419 yards (16.1-yard average) and eight touchdowns at split end, adding an assisted tackle and a stop for a loss on limited defensive play. Simpson was a second-team All-Big South Conference selection as a sophomore, as he started six of 11 games in 2005. He also earned South Carolina All-Star recognition from the Orangeburg Touchdown Club. He led the team with 33 catches for 527 yards (16.9 avg) and nine touchdowns, but lost 29 yards on a pair of reverses. He recorded one solo tackle and scored 54 points for the season. In 2006, Simpson became the first player in school history to gain over 1,000 yards in a season. The All-American second-team choice by the Associated Press and Football Gazette added All-Big South Conference first-team accolades to his resume. He led the league and ranked eighth nationally in receiving yards (89.75 yards per game), ranked third in the Big South in receptions (5.08 per game) and set the school and conference record for touchdown catches (16). He scored 96 points while grabbing 61 passes for 1,077 yards (17.7 avg) and ran once for an eight-yard loss. With Tyler Thigpen graduated, Simpson had to develop chemistry with the team's young quarterbacks in 2007, as the aerial game struggled to gain momentum. Through the team's first 10 games, he ranked fifth in the Big South in receptions (3.7 rpg) and receiving yards (61.3 ypg). He led the team with 37 receptions for 613 yards (16.6-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. He returned a kickoff 15 yards and also gained 10 yards on a reverse. He recovered a fumble and recorded one solo tackle. Simpson also lettered twice on the school's track team. He was a member of the 2006 Big South Conference Men's Outdoor Track and Field Championship squad, earning All-Big South honors after finishing third in both the high jump and long jump. He also set a new school record in the high jump with a leap of 2.05m (6' 8.75"). He finished third at the NCAA East Regionals in the long jump and qualified for the 2007 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.. He was also on the school record

The emotional leader of the Eagles' defense, Jolonn Dunbar has an exceptional work ethic that rubs off on teammates. He compensates for a lack of ideal size with keen field vision and awareness, as he always seems to be in position to make the big play. That was evident in the 2006 Maryland contest, where he tied an NCAA record by recovering two fumbles that he returned for touchdowns on the Terps' first two drives of the game. Excellence on the football field is nothing new for Dunbar, who was a four-year standout at Thomas J. Corcoran High School. He earned All-State Class AA first-team honors as a senior running back and second-team All-Stater as a junior, when he also competed as a linebacker. He added All-American accolades from Super Prep and was an All-East choice by Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report. The 2002 Central New York Co-Player of the Year rushed for 2,182 yards and 22 touchdowns as a senior and finished his career with 5,136 rushing yards and 55 scores, both school records. On defense, he recorded 83 tackles, two sacks and four forced fumbles as a senior, leading the team to a 9-2 record and the Section III Class AA title. With his mother, Michelle Johnson, an employee in the Syracuse football office, it was expected that Dunbar would enroll at the university. But, the coaching staff told him that he could not play halfback and wished to recruit him as a linebacker. He declined a scholarship offer and enrolled at Boston College, spending the 2003 season on the scout team. Midway through the season, he abandoned his dream to play offense and asked the coaching staff for a switch to defense. The following season, Dunbar appeared in 10 games as a reserve linebacker, recording 37 tackles (24 solo) with 2 1/2 stops for losses, a forced fumble and two pass deflections in 2004. He started vs. Maryland and Boise State for an injured Brian Toal in 2005, playing in 12 games at middle linebacker. He ranked seventh on the squad with 50 tackles (37 solo), an assisted sack and five stops behind the line of scrimmage. He caused a fumble and recovered another that he advanced 94 yards for a touchdown. He also batted away three passes and returned an onside kickoff one yard. In 2006, Dunbar was the Meineke Bowl Most Valuable Player and led the team with 92 tackles (50 solo) while starting 11 games at middle linebacker. He sat out the Buffalo game with a right shoulder separation and the Miami game with a right high ankle sprain. He collected two sacks with 7 1/2 stops for losses and a forced fumble. He also recovered three fumbles, returning two for touchdowns. He deflected one pass and intercepted another. The senior team captain led a BC defense that did not yield more than 69 yards rushing in any of the first seven games in 2007, but a right high ankle sprain vs. Florida would force Dunbar to sit out the Maryland clash and when he returned, he came off the bench during the team's final three regular-season contests. The defense struggled without their emotional leader, allowing 843 yards in the two games he was on the sidelines and saw their national title hopes dashed, as the Eagles lost three of their last five games. Still, Dunbar ranked third on the squad with 83 tackles (45 solo). He was credited with 12 quarterback pressures and 6 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He deflected five passes and for the third consecutive year, he scored a defensive touchdown, returning an interception 14 yards for a score. In 45 games at Boston College, Dunbar started 22 contests. He registered 262 tackles (156 solo) with 2 1/2 sacks for minus-12 yards and 21 1/2 stops for losses of 58 yards. He caused three fumbles and deflected seven passes. He gained 45 yards on a pair of interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. He also scored three times on four fumble recoveries, totaling 151 yards and also recovered an onside kickoff for a one-yard gain.

A productive pass rusher off the edge for Pitt, Clermond is a bit of a 'tweener and only a marginal prospect for the NFL. A Second Team All-Big East pick after each of the past two seasons, Clermond averaged 15 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks during that span. Clermond has good initial quickness, but despite his size he plays with limited strength against the run and too often loses contain with wild pass rushes. He can find a niche at the next level as a pass rush specialist or potential 3-4 rush linebacker, but he isn't the NFL prospect his impressive stats would indicate.

Flacco is one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects of this draft. While he lacks the big name of some of the other highly ranked prospects, he possesses the prototypical combination of size and arm strength scouts are looking for. His steady improvement while at Delaware bodes well for his future development in the NFL, but Flacco's ability to handle the greater speed of the NFL is the determining factor of his final draft status. Scouts are anxious to see how Flacco responds in senior all-star games.

Athleticism is in West's genes, as cousins Doug and Mark played in the NBA and his brother Tracy (Thorpe) pitched for the Blue Jays. A starter for two-plus years for the Miners, Joe West put up his best numbers in his honorable mention All-Conference USA 2007 season: 41 receptions for 734 yards and six touchdowns.

Another product of the Terrapins' renowned training room, Joey Haynos, a former walk-on at Maryland, spurned basketball scholarship offers from other universities to join the Terps' football program in 2003. He developed from a lanky 215-pound freshman to a vital cog in the team's offensive attack. He was the starting tight end at Maryland the last two years and his rare combination of size, strength and pass -catching ability made him an ideal replacement for former Mackey Award winner, Vernon Davis, a first-round draft choice of the San Francisco 49ers in 2006. Haynos was a standout basketball player at Gonzaga College High School, having received scholarship offers from Campbell and Coastal Carolina after his senior season. He was a versatile performer for the football team, starting as a linebacker and tight end as a senior. That season, he caught 30 passes for 375 yards and a touchdown, earning first-team All-Washington Catholic Athletic Conference honors, as he led the team to the WCAC title with a 10-0 record. He also saw action at wide receiver as a sophomore and as a quarterback during his freshman campaign. Upon graduating from high school, Haynos decided to walk on at Maryland, turning down scholarship offers from Catholic University and Towson. He spent the 2003 campaign as a member of the Terps' scout team. In '04, he appeared in eight games, where he was used strictly as a blocker in two-tight end formations. He finished the year with the second-highest blocking consistency grade among the team's receivers. As a sophomore in 2005, Haynos competed in nine games behind Davis. He only caught one pass for the season -- good for a 3-yard touchdown. With Davis leaving school early, Haynos earned the starting assignment in 2006. He went on to earn All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention, as he finished second on the team with 37 receptions for 369 yards (10-yard average) and three touchdowns. He also gained seven yards on one kickoff return while starting six of 13 games. In '07, Haynos started six of the team's 12 regular-season games. He again ranked second on the squad, grabbing 27 passes for 287 yards (10.6-yard average). He returned one kickoff for eight yards, recorded a solo tackle and recovered a fumble. He also showed marked improvement as a blocker, posting 61 key blocks and knockdowns, including six that led to Maryland touchdowns. In 42 games at Maryland, Haynos started 12 contests. He snatched 55 passes for 659 yards (11.98-yard average) and four touchdowns, adding 15 yards on two kickoff returns. He made one solo tackle and recovered a fumble. In his two seasons as a starter, he registered 119 key blocks/knockdowns, with 11 touchdown-resulting blocks.

Productive but not flashy in an NFL-style offense at Notre Dame. He can make the tough catch and gives top effort, assets that could see him come off the board in the first two rounds.

Having produced Heisman Trophy quarterbacks in recent years with Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, the Trojans coaching staff felt it had the perfect candidate for the award in 2007. But Booty didn't strike Heisman gold with injury and inconsistency setting him back. Booty comes from a family rich in football tradition, which made his journey out West something that the youngster felt he needed to do to establish his own identity. John David's brother, Josh, was a quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who played at LSU for two seasons (1999-2000) following a five-year (1994-98) baseball career as an infielder in the Florida Marlins organization (including 13 games in the majors). Another brother, Abram, was a wide receiver at LSU (1997-1999) and Valdosta State (2001). His father, Johnny, played quarterback at Arkansas, Louisiana Tech and Mississippi State, then, coached football at Evangel Christian, where John David Booty rose to national prominence as one of the top prep quarterbacks. At Evangel Christian Academy, Booty earned Student Sports Underclass All-American and Class 5A All-State honors as a sophomore and junior. In 2002, he led his team to the Class 5A state title while throwing for 4,144 yards and 38 touchdowns. He also led the squad to the Class 5A state title as a 2001 sophomore, passing for 4,330 yards and 50 scores. During his freshman campaign, Booty completed 9-of-11 passes. In his career, he threw for 8,474 yards on 555-of-864 passing (64.2%) with 88 touchdowns and 26 interceptions. Because Louisiana rules allow junior high students to compete on high school teams if the school is a K-12 school, he actually played varsity football for Evangel Christian since the seventh grade. Prior to his senior year, Booty's father was fired a the team's quarterbacks coach at the Academy and the youngster decided to bypass football that season, opting for early enrollment at Southern California. Asked why he skipped his senior year of high school, the quarterback replied, "Because my dad was fired as our quarterbacks coach, I felt like it was time for me to move on. I felt like I was standing up for my dad and for what I want." Booty did not see action during the first five games of his 2003 freshman season with the Trojans. Booty eventually saw limited mop-up action in five games in '03, finishing with 90 yards on 7-of-14 passes (50.0%), but lost 10 yards on a rushing attempt, as he missed the final two contests with a left wrist fracture suffered in the UCLA game. Listed third on the depth chart in 2004, a badly bruised elbow in fall camp forced the coaching staff to grant Booty a medical hardship. With Matt Leinart having won the 2004 Heisman Trophy, Booty anticipated taking over quarterback duties in '05 at USC, but Leinart opted to return for his senior year, relegating the youngster to second on the QB depth chart. For the 2005 campaign, Booty appeared briefly in 10 games. He threw for 327 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions on 27-of-42 attempts (64.3%) and amassed 316 yards in total offense. On his way to the NFL, Leinart had a few thoughts about his successor, saying, With Leinart gone, the 2006 season was Booty's "coming out party," but he was limited in spring camp with a herniated disc in his back that required surgery in late March. He returned to the field fully recovered by fall drills, where he executed the offensive game plan flawlessly. Late 2006 season struggles, especially in upset losses to Oregon State and UCLA left his junior season unfulfilled, but Booty still ranked first in the Pac-10 Conference in pass efficiency (144.0 rating), total offense (253.38 yards per game), points responsible for (13.85 points per game), passing yards (3,347), passing yards per game (257.46 ypg) and pass completions (20.69). For the campaign, he connected on 269-of-436 passes (61.7%) for 3,347 yards, 29 touchdowns and only nine interceptions. He also piled up 3,294 yards

A mainstay on the Rockets' offensive line, John Greco filled a huge void at left offensive tackle when he replaced Nick Kaczur (New England) as a sophomore. The coaches felt that Greco was more than capable of handling that tough assignment after seeing him excel at right tackle during his first year with the team. He was so impressive in 2004 that he became the first offensive lineman to win the Norman Cohen Award, given to the team's top freshman. At Boardman High School, Greco was named first-team All-Conference and second-team All-Region as a senior, adding second-team All-Conference honors as a junior. He helped the team share the conference championship in his junior year and the squad finished second in the conference in Greco's freshman season. He also lettered one season in basketball, the same team that produced former Toledo All-Mid American Conference center, Chris Tuminello. Greco enrolled at Toledo in 2003, performing on the scout team as an offensive tackle. That preparation period helped him take over right tackle duties in 2004. He generated 59 knockdowns with seven touchdown-resulting blocks, helping the offense rank 11th in the nation with an average of 459.2 yards per game. As a sophomore, Greco took over left tackle duties. The explosive Toledo offense ranked 10th nationally in scoring (35.8 points per game) and with their new left tackle leading the way, the rushing attack ranked 13th in the country, averaging 216.8 yards per game, a vast improvement over the previous season, when the Rockets averaged 160.8 yards per game on the ground. Greco finished that season with 86 knockdowns and 10 touchdown-resulting blocks, earning All-Mid American first-team accolades. Greco picked up All-MAC first-team honors in 2006. The team co-captain registered 90 knockdowns and came up with ten touchdown-resulting blocks. He allowed three sacks on 386 pass plays and guided an offense that averaged 326.9 yards per game. Greco was a third-team All-American and first-team All-MAC choice during his final season. He led a front wall that allowed only 16 quarterback sacks, as the offense generated 5,373 yards (447.8 yards per game), leading the MAC in total offense, rushing and scoring. He delivered 99 knockdowns, coming up with 14 touchdown-resulting blocks.

Sullivan gets high marks for smarts and technical acumen, but he's not a top all-around center and might need time to develop into starting material. His lower body is strong enough but he's not powerful and will struggle with movement.

Due to their high profile offense and unique 3-3-5 defensive alignment, Dingle didn't receive a great deal of notoriety out of West Virginia, but his quickness and size makes him an intriguing prospect. Originally signing with Florida out of high school, Dingle transferred to West Virginia due to academic struggles and quickly emerged as the Mountaineers' top pass rush threat on the defensive line. Quick off the snap, Dingle has good lateral agility and is a surprisingly effective tackler in space who could surprise at the next level.

Productive, physical and instinctive, Goff leaves Vanderbilt as one of the SEC's best linebackers. A two-time team captain and Second Team All-SEC pick, Goff is a physical inside linebacker who is at his best when attacking the line of scrimmage against interior runs. Despite his good straight-line speed, Goff may lack the burst to the flanks to be successful as a traditional middle man in the 4-3 alignment, but makes a lot of sense as 3-4 linebacker due to his physicality and ability to take on and shed blocks.

Often compared to another mighty-mite safety in former Iowa star Bob Sanders, Hefney has similar instincts and is developing into a reliable open-field tackler in the same mold. Not nearly as physical as Sanders, Hefney relies more on positioning and athleticism to make plays. Willing to support the run, which combined with his coverage skills make him an intriguing cornerback prospect.

While other running backs received considerable national attention, tucked away in Eugene, Oregon, was an athlete many feel was the most complete running back in college football in 2007 -- Jonathan Stewart. He has the size of a fullback, the strength of an offensive lineman and the quickness of a sprinter. Playing with a style that reminds pro scouts of Kansas City's Larry Johnson, Stewart proved, even through injuries, perfectly capable of handling the rushing load. Despite starting just 25 games at Oregon, he ranks second in school history with 2,891 yards rushing. His 198 points scored is the sixth-best career total in Ducks annals and his 4,889 all-purpose yards rank third on the school's career list. His 1,722 yards on the ground in 2007 was the most ever by a running back at the university and rank ninth on the Pac-10 single-season chart. He also used his 233-pound frame as a kickoff returner, finishing second on Oregon's career charts with a 28.69-yard average and 1,664 yards gained. Few prospects in the Northwest attracted the attention to the magnitude that Stewart received during his playing days at Timberline High School. The state of Washington's all-time rushing leader accumulated 7,755 yards on the ground with 95 touchdowns in a career in which he eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier in each of his four prep seasons. Stewart was placed atop the nation's list of running back recruits on Parade magazine's All-American team, Student Sports Hot 100 list as well as Prep Star's Top 100 Dream Team, and was one of five finalists for the Walter Payton Trophy (nation's top prep player). He was named Washington Class 3A Offensive co-Player of the Year and state Gatorade Player-of-the-Year as a senior. The tailback was a member of USA Today's 2004 All-USA team, the Long Beach Press-Telegram's Best in the West first-team, the Northwest Nuggets squad by the Tacoma News Tribune and EA Sports' All-American squad. He played in the 2005 U.S. Army All-American Bowl and was named the News Tribune's 2004-05 High School Male Athlete of the Year. Rivals.com rated him the best player in the state of Washington and 10th overall in the nation. Stewart rushed for 2,301 yards and 32 scores as a senior, averaging 11.3 yards per carry, in addition to returning one of three punts 91 yards into the end zone. That year, he had single-game bests of 422 yards rushing vs. Centralia High, including nine touchdowns. As a junior, he rushed for 2,609 yards and 36 touchdowns to garner first-team All-State accolades by the Seattle Times and Tacoma News Tribune, as well as state Class 3A Player-of-the-Year praise by the former news organization. During his sophomore year, Stewart gained 1,575 yards on the ground in 2002 before breaking his left ankle. He also competed in track. He placed second in the 2005 state track 100-meter championships (11.17), in addition to anchoring school's 4x100-meter relay to a state title. Oregon won a fierce recruiting battle for Stewart's services in 2005, as he turned down scholarship offers from Southern California, Tennessee, California, Nebraska, Notre Dame and Ohio State. An ankle injury limited him to 10 games as a true freshman, serving as the "caddy" for starter Terrence Whitehead. However, the youngster made the most out of limited opportunities, as he averaged one touchdown for every eight times he touched the ball. Stewart would earn Freshman All-Pac-10 Conference honors from The Sporting News. He scored six times on 53 carries for 188 yards (3.5-yard average), returned 12 kickoffs for 404 yards (33.7-yard average) and a pair of touchdowns and caught seven passes for 45 yards and another score. A series of ankle injuries throughout 2006 was the main culprit preventing Stewart from cracking the 1,000-yard rushing barrier. The second-team All-Pac-10 choice was also hampered by rib cartilage damage, a chest muscle strain and a neck strain as a sophomore. He still managed to lead the