DRAFT TRACKER 2008

Wilhite signed with Auburn as one of the highest-rated JUCO prospects in the country after an All-American tour with Butler Community College. He struggled to stay on the field at Auburn, but has shown enough athleticism to earn a late-round shot.

Athletic cornerback who teamed with fellow senior Chevis Jackson to give LSU one of the top corner tandems in the country. Blessed with size, instincts, good athleticism and a history of making the big play, Zenon has most of the skills teams are looking for in a top cornerback. Unfortunately, a lack of pure speed limits his potential for the next level.

One of the most productive collegiate linebackers in recent memory, this four-year starter will get his chance despite a lack of great triangle numbers. The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year put up 114 solo and 162 total tackles in 2007, with 11 going for losses. At the very least, Dizon should be a solid special teamer, but his lack of measurables will cause him to drop into the middle rounds. The team drafting him will hope that with a year in a professional strength program, and the right defensive linemen playing in front of him, he could eventually become a yeoman's version of Zach Thomas.

Nelson signed with Kansas State as a safety before making the transition to wide receiver as a sophomore. His initial season at receiver was impressive, with Nelson earning Honorable Mention Big 12 honors with 45 catches for 669 yards and eight TDs. Hampered by a knee injury that caused him to miss three games, Nelson saw his numbers drop to 39 catches for 547 yards and only one score in 2006 before exploding into a First Team All-American in 2007. Nelson finished second only to Biletnikoff winner Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech) in both catches (122) and receiving yards (1,606). As the focus on the Kansas State passing game, Nelson's numbers are clearly inflated. To attribute his success strictly to this offense, however, is a mistake. His combination of size, route-running and hands make him at least a quality possession receiver prospect. Ultimately, Nelson's stock will be determined by his 40-yard dash time. The 4.62 he clocked for scouts last spring is not indicative of Nelson's true speed. This timing came with Nelson still rehabilitating his left knee injury and thus, may not be indicative of his true speed. He was an all-state track star during high school and has been timed at a 10.62 in the 100-meter dash. Nelson's strong senior campaign assures him of being drafted. A strong postseason performance in the Senior Bowl and at the Combine could result in his stock skyrocketing.

Barrett has an injury history scouts will evaluate closely. When he's on the field, he is a fine athlete with a combination of size, speed and instincts to promote a possible switch to outside linebacker in a Cover-2 defense. He's a sure tackler who hits hard and had six career interceptions.

One of the game's best-kept secrets, at least where the national media is concerned, Johnson has greatly impressed professional scouts that have actually seen him perform. Many will agree that he is one of the most exciting athletes to watch with the ball in his hands, bringing back memories of Michael Vick and Vince Young during their collegiate days. Johnson brings tremendous energy to the field and is the type defenses must account for on every play. Whether it is unleashing a deep pass, putting zip on his short throws or playing like a whirling dervish running with the ball, the talented quarterback has proven he can strike from anywhere on the field. Johnson earned first-team All-City, Oakland Chamber of Commerce Prep of the Month and Most Improved Player honors as a senior at Oakland Technical High School. He was also named Most Inspirational his junior year when he could not play due to injury. He threw for 1,900 yards and 22 touchdowns with just two interceptions his senior season, leading his team to the Oakland Athletic League Championship. The versatile athlete also lettered in basketball and track. He was an honorable mention All-City choice in hoops and finished in the high jump (6'5") at the Oakland Athletic League Championships. Looking for an opportunity to be part of a rising football program, Johnson turned down scholarship offers from St. Mary's and Idaho State to enroll at San Diego in 2004. That year, he appeared in seven games, playing behind Todd Mortensen. He hit on 12-of-22 passes (54.5%) for 135 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. He added 39 yards and a pair of scores on 13 carries (3.0 avg), caught a 3-yard pass and returned a pair of punts for a 1-yard loss. With Mortensen having graduated, Johnson took over starting duties in 2005, going on to win the first of two Pioneer Football League Offensive Player of the Year honors. He was a first-team All-American choice by The Sports Network and named Division 1-AA Offensive Back of the Year by the Football Gazette. Johnson ranked 11th in the nation in pass completions (260-of-371 attempts), setting school season-records for pass completion percentage (70.1), yards passing (3,256) and touchdown passes (36). He finished second nationally with a 171.51 passing efficiency rating and ranked fifth with an average of 302.92 yards per game in total offense. His 3,635 yards in total offense is the second-highest season total in school history. In 2006, Johnson received consensus All-American and unanimous All-Pioneer Football League first-team recognition. The Division 1-AA Offensive Player of the Year by The NFL Draft Report was also selected the PFL's Offensive Player of the Year. He led the nation with a 169.02 passing efficiency rating, an average of 333.67 yards per game in total offense, 3,320 yards passing and 24.33 points per game that he was responsible for. Johnson connected on 246-of-371 passes (66.3%) with 34 touchdowns and only five interceptions. He picked up 720 yards with 11 scores on 107 carries (6.7 avg) and caught two passes for 27 yards and a touchdown. He participated in 478 plays, as his 4,040 yards in total offense rank 15th on the NCAA FCS/1-AA season-record list. Johnson earned the team's MVP award following the 2007 season. He finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting while throwing a school-record 43 touchdown passes. He led the nation in total offense, passing efficiency and points responsible for. Johnson finished his career as the NCAA's all-time leader in passing efficiency at 176.7.

Under-achieving talent who flashes all of the prerequisite skills to be a top prospect, but lacks the focus and work ethic to have taken advantage of his natural ability. Characterized by the Virginia Tech staff as the most gifted of a handful of senior Hokie receivers earning consideration for the NFL, Morgan has a rare combination of size and speed. He flashes the burst out his breaks, hand-eye coordination and strong hands to get scouts excited. Unfortunately, he's also plagued by rounded-off routes, weak effort as a blocker and ugly drops. Perhaps as much as any receiver prospect in the 2008 draft, Morgan is a true boom or bust prospect.

With the success that Jacksonville had with Maurice Jones-Drew and the production that San Diego has received from Darren Sproles, NFL teams are no longer shying away from using draft picks on height-challenged running backs. Enter Justin Forsett -- a one-year starter whose ability as a change-of-pace runner made him Cal's third-leading all-time rusher with 3,220 yards. Despite starting just 17 games during his career, Forsett ranks fourth in school annals with 26 touchdowns on the ground. He is also tied for second in Cal history, running for at least 100 yards in 15 games. Forsett led Grace Prep Academy to back-to-back state championships in the Texas private school division, earning Class 4A first-team All-State and Most Valuable Player honors. He was a member of the Dallas Morning News' All-Area Top 100 team and participated in the Texas All-Star Game, earning MVP accolades in that contest. The explosive running back scored 63 touchdowns and rushed for nearly 5,000 yards during his last two seasons. He darted for 2,560 yards and 38 scores, leading the team to a 12-1 record in 2003. As a junior, he amassed 2,365 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns, as he led the squad to an 11-2 mark. He also lettered in basketball and track at Grace Prep after spending his freshman and sophomore semesters at Polk County (Mulberry, Fla.) High School. Forsett enrolled at California in 2004, seeing action mostly as a gunner on the special-team coverage units. He gained 49 yards with a touchdown on 11 carries (4.5-yard average) and had an 11-yard kickoff return. He also recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a score. As a sophomore, Forsett served as Marshawn Lynch's backup, starting three of 12 games. He grabbed seven passes for 68 yards (9.7-yard average) and gained 70 yards on four kickoff returns (17.5 avg). He rushed 132 times for 999 yards (7.6 avg) and six touchdowns, falling one yard short of joining Lynch (1,246 yards) in becoming the 38th running back tandem in NCAA history to both rush for over 1,000 yards in the same season. In 2006, Forsett managed two more starting assignments while appearing in all 13 games. He collected 626 yards with four touchdowns on 119 attempts (5.3-yard average) and caught 12 passes for 116 yards (9.5 avg), including one score. He also recorded three tackles (two solos) and gained 81 yards on five kickoff returns (16.2 avg). Forsett was an All-Pac-10 Conference first-team choice as a senior. He earned multiple team honors including the Bear Backer Award as the team's offensive MVP and the Stub Allison Award (Most Inspirational). He set the Cal record with 305 rushing attempts and ranks second on the school list with 1,546 yards on the ground (5.1-yard average), as he scored 15 rushing TDs. He added 202 yards on 22 receptions (9.2 avg) and recorded one solo tackle. In 49 games at California, Forsett started 18 games, including 13 as a senior. He ranks third in school history with 3,220 yards rushing and fourth with 26 touchdowns on the ground, as he carried 567 times (5.7-yard average). He caught 41 passes for 386 yards (9.4 avg) and a score, adding 162 yards on 10 kickoff returns (16.2 avg) while recovering a blocked punt for a touchdown. He also recorded seven tackles (six solo) on special teams.

With a stable full of senior receivers in this draft, Harper needed to post career-highs in 2007 to prove he wasn't just a size/speed candidate for the NFL - and that is precisely what he did - emerging as the Hokies' most dependable downfield target. Unfortunately, scouts will have to determine who is the real Justin Harper - the mercurial wideout who struggled to make an impact throughout his early career despite obvious physical tools, or the one who stepped up his play as a senior.

King signed with Penn State as one of the most highly touted prospects in the program's recent history. As talented a raw athlete as they come, his decision to come out after his junior season remains a surprising one considering how badly he struggled down the stretch. A selection on the draft's first day is purely a gamble on King's rare size and athleticism.

Spent two years at highly-regarded Garden City Community College (redshirted his first year), then contributed immediately as a nickel back before starting his final two seasons for Kansas City. Despite lacking great bulk, this 2007 second-team All-Big 12 corner could flourish in the NFL due to his physical, no-fear style. His uncle, Greg Jefferson, played defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles.

A two-year starter for ASU after an All-American junior college career at College of the Canyons, Tryon has the speed to be an effective NFL nickel or dime corner. Teams are always looking for cover corners who can stick with slot receivers, and Tryon could perform that duty.

One tough hombre, willing to take the ball as many times as needed to get the job done (averaged 24.5 carries per game in 2007). A three-time first-team All-MidAmerican Conference back, McRae is used to carrying the load. Being "the man" in a MAC offense is much different than being one in the NFL. However, he should at least be a solid backup in the league for some time because of his all-around skills.

When Keenan Burton was out of the lineup with assorted injuries -- knee, foot and ankle -- during his career, the Wildcats were a different team. Back from injury, Burton had a banner junior season. Burton became just the third player in school history to gain over 1,000 yards receiving in a season (1,036) in 2006 and is also the third Wildcat to ever amass over 2,000 receiving yards in a career. His 12 touchdown receptions in 2006 rank second on the school's single-season record list. He also set another Kentucky record by catching at least two touchdown passes in four consecutive games (Mississippi State, Georgia, Vanderbilt and Louisiana-Monroe). At DuPont Manual High School, Burton excelled as a quarterback and safety. He earned first-team All-State from the Associated Press and the Louisville Courier-Journal and was named to the Lexington Herald-Leader "Class of the Commonwealth" listing of the top-22 seniors in the state during his senior year. He was the sixth-ranked prospect in Kentucky by Super Prep, ranking fifth in the state and among the nation's top fifty defensive backs, according to Rivals.com and Prep Star. He also added All-County and All-District honors as a junior and senior. The MVP of the Kentucky/Tennessee HS All-Star Game in the summer of 2003, Burton helped his school reach the Class AAAA state playoffs four consecutive seasons. He started the last three of his four seasons with the team, lining up mostly at quarterback on offense, although he did see some action as a receiver, running back, and kick returner. Burton carried the ball 274 times for 1,634 yards (6.0-yard average) and 25 touchdowns during his career. He completed 81 of 226 passes (35.8%) for 1,605 yards and 17 scores. He also recorded 98 tackles, along with 30 pass deflections and 10 interceptions, returning two of those picks for touchdowns, adding another score on a punt return. "Keenan has the quickest first step I've seen in a long time," said Manual High coach Joe Nichols. "He has really deceptive speed and great hands." Burton also lettered in track, competing in the 400- and 800-meter dashes, 4x200-, 4x400-, and 4x800-meter relays, the long jump, and the triple-jump. He competed in the state meet in all three relays and both jumps. He was a member of the school's student council and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Burton enrolled at Kentucky in 2003, turning down scholarship offers from Northwestern, Indiana, Marshall, Louisville, Miami (Ohio) and Boston College. The son of former Morehead State football and track participant, Ed Burton, Keenan Burton earned Knoxville News-Sentinel Freshman All-Southeastern Conference honors that season. In 12 games, he made five starts at split end. He ranked fifth on the team with 20 receptions for 221 yards (11.1-yard average) and a pair of touchdowns, with 11 catches for first downs. Prior to the 2004 season opener, Burton suffered a left wrist fracture. He appeared in the team's first two games before the coaching staff applied for a medical hardship. He had just two catches for 13 yards, adding 88 yards on three kickoff returns (29.3-yard average) before spending the rest of the season on the sidelines. Injuries continued to plague Burton in 2005, as he appeared in only seven games while twice undergoing right foot surgery (in September, 2005, and again in January, 2006) to repair a broken bone. He still finished third on the team with 24 catches for 365 yards (15.2-yard average) and a pair of touchdowns and 15 grabs produced first downs, converting four third-down grabs and one on fourth down. He returned five kickoffs for 183 yards (36.6 avg) with a long of 93 yards and also had a 30-yard punt return. Injury-free for the first time since 2003, Burton had a banner junior season. He earned All-Southeastern Conference first-team honors as an all-purpose back and second-team accolades as a receiver. Named one of the team's captains, he also took over kickoff-retu

Rivers carries on the tradition of standout linebackers to perform for the Trojans - tough, physical with excellent play reading ability and the range to make plays in pursuit. He is very fluid in his movements when dropping back in pass coverage, so much so that the coaches even utilized him at safety in various zone coverage packages. Rivers' ability to play a variety of positions proved invaluable earlier in his career. In addition to excelling at weak-side linebacker, he was often used as a defensive end in pass rushing situations during his first two seasons with the Trojans. He also played through nagging left ankle problems in 2007, but still performed at a high level to garner All-American honors. At Lake Mary High School, Rivers earned USA Today All-USA first-team, Parade, Super Prep, Prep Star, EA Sports and Insiders.com All-American first-team honors. He was a member of the Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Dixie, Prep Star All-Southeast and Fox Sports Net All-South squads. The Gatorade Florida Player of the Year and Florida Class 6A Mr. Football runner-up as a senior linebacker, Rivers recorded 111 tackles, 14 stops for losses, two sacks and a pair of interceptions in 2003. As a junior in 2002, he was a Student Sports Junior All-American and Florida Class 5A second-team choice, as he posted 160 tackles, 11 stops behind the line of scrimmage, including four sacks and had two interceptions. He made All-State as a sophomore in 2001 when he had 100-plus tackles. Born in Riverside, California, Rivers enrolled at Southern California in 2004. He saw significant playing time in 13 games as a reserve weak-side linebacker and was also used as a defensive end in pass rushing situations. He went on to record 25 tackles (13 solos) with 2.5 sacks and three stops for losses. He picked off one pass, deflected another and caused a fumble, as he was awarded All-Pac 10 Conference Freshman Team honors. Rivers earned All-Pac 10 honorable mention while starting 11 games at weak-side linebacker in 2005. He sat out the Stanford and UCLA games with a nagging hamstring problem, but still delivered 52 tackles (35 solos) with a sack and three stops behind the line of scrimmage. He had the second interception for his career and also recovered a pair of fumbles. The All-Pac 10 first-team pick added All-American honorable mention while receiving the team's Bob Chandler Award in 2006. He started all 13 games, leading the team with 85 tackles (47 solos), including two sacks and 7.5 stops for losses. He caused three fumbles, recovered another and batted away two passes. Arthroscopic left ankle surgery in spring camp hampered Rivers' off-season conditioning program in 2007 and he later missed the Arizona State clash while nursing that sore ankle, but he still received All-American and All-Pac 10 Conference first-team honors. He started 11 of 12 games, but the ankle injury limited his range, as he had just five stops behind the line of scrimmage. He did finish second on the team with 78 tackles (44 solos), adding a forced fumble, three fumble recoveries and four pass deflections in his final season. In 49 games at Southern California, Rivers started 35 contests. He finished with 240 tackles (139 solos), 5.5 sacks for minus-42 yards and 18.5 stops for losses of 77 yards. He was credited with three quarterback pressures and gained 36 yards on two interception returns while also deflecting seven passes. He caused five fumbles and recovered six others.

Davis is the most physically imposing tight end in the 2008 draft. Blessed with rare size, strength and overall athleticism, he has the combination of physical talent that every team is looking for. Though he enjoyed a breakout senior campaign, he remains an enigma. Davis entered his senior season with 10 starts in 30 game appearances. Over that span, he had caught 28 passes for 276 yards and three touchdowns. Davis has become a more prominent member of Michigan State's offense, matching his previous career numbers with 28 grabs (for 475 yards and five touchdowns) through the first 12 games of the 2007 season. Davis lacks great quickness off the snap and hasn't shown the willingness to work hard to improve his route-running and blocking. He relies on his own natural ability on the football field and is so big and strong the Spartans have used him as a defensive end at times this season. In limited duty as a pass rusher Davis has registered six tackles, including 2.5 tackles for loss and 2.0 sacks. Davis hasn't demonstrated the work ethic to improve and his 2006 arrest for an off-field fight will scare off some clubs. Still, a team will fall in love with his potential and draft him higher than his production and past work ethic warrants.

The reason the Pirates have been successful in recent years has been the play of their defensive, led by the unheralded Kendall Langford. During his freshman year, Hampton ranked 58th in the nation in total defense (251.17 yards per game), but improved to sixth nationally in 2005 (270.92 ypg) and 15th in the Division 1-AA ranks in '06 (271.5 ypg). Langford led Hampton in both sacks and tackles for losses as a sophomore and junior, when Hampton had success stopping the run. His dominance against the ground game stands out in his performances. In 234 running plays going directly at Langford during his career, the opposition managed only 63 yards, an average of 0.27 yards per attempt. In 47 games with the Pirates, the opposing team has produced just seven first-down runs on plays directed at Langford. At Petersburg High School, Langford earned first-team All-District and second-team All-Metro and All-Region honors as a senior. He also added All-District first-team accolades during his junior campaign, competing as a defensive lineman. Because of Hampton's lofty academic reputation, Langford decided to enroll at the university in 2004. Lining up at right defensive tackle as a true freshman, he earned Freshman All-American honors from the Gridiron Report. He appeared in all 12 games, forcing his way into the starting lineup for three of the team's final four contests. That year, he made 44 tackles (15 solo), as he finished second on the squad with 4 1/2 sacks and 11 1/2 stops for losses. He was credited with seven quarterback pressures, a pass deflection and a blocked kick. He recovered a fumble that he returned 30 yards for a touchdown and also caused two fumbles. Langford shifted to left defensive end as a sophomore, garnering All-Mid Eastern Athletic Conference first-team honors. He started every game for a squad that ranked second in the nation in scoring defense, allowing only 14 points per game. He totaled 65 tackles (31 solo) and led the team with 15 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He posted 4 1/2 sacks, 12 pressures and three forced fumbles. He batted away two passes and blocked a pair of kicks. As a junior, Langford again earned All-MEAC first-team honors, in addition to being named an All-American by The NFL Draft Report and the Sheridan Broadcasting Network. He moved to right defensive end in the team's new 3-4 alignment, finishing third on the team with 55 tackles (32 solo). He led a defense that ranked sixth nationally in scoring defense (14.5 points per game allowed), pacing the Pirates with eight sacks and 15 1/2 stops for losses. He was credited with eight pressures and two forced fumbles while blocking a kick and deflecting one pass. In 2007, offenses made it a point to steer clear of Langford. Still, he managed to lead the team with a career-high 72 tackles (32 solo), ranking second on the squad with six sacks, 13 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage and 12 pressures in 11 games. He caused two fumbles, batted away a pass and returned an interception for a touchdown. He also blocked a field goal. In 47 games at Hampton, Langford started 38 contests, including 35 as a defensive end. He recorded 236 tackles (110 solo) with 23 1/2 sacks for minus-175 yards, 56 1/2 stops for losses of 266 yards and 39 quarterback pressures. He caused nine fumbles and recovered another for a 30-yard touchdown return. He also deflected five passes, returned an interception 22 yards for a touchdown and was in on five of the 33 blocked kicks that Hampton produced during his four years with the team.

As a redshirt sophomore, Iwebema came on like gangbusters earning first-team All-Big Ten accolades (10 TFL, 7.0 sacks). He was less productive in his junior and senior seasons: 55 tackles, 10 for loss, 6.5 sacks combined from 2006-07. His size could make him a strong candidate for a 3-4 defensive end spot.

An all-purpose player who made a name for himself as a receiver and return man in 2007 after stepping in at running back as a junior to make up for various injuries at the position. A first-team All-ACC selection, Moore had 98 catches for 1,011 yards and five touchdowns - including two games with 15 catches each. He also gained 316 yards on 44 carries (three touchdowns) and 355 yards on 34 punt returns (one score). He may get looks at all three spots in a team's training camp.

By becoming the ninth safety to earn All-American honors, Kenny Phillips carries on the school's tradition of producing elite defensive backs. Burgess Owens was the first Miami safety to garner All-American recognition (1972) and it was nine years before the next one was selected in Fred Marion (1981). Bennie Blades was the school's first-time All-American safety (1986-87) and Ed Reed matched that total in 2000-01. Sean Taylor (2003) and Brandon Meriweather (2005) soon followed with their postseason honors. The coaching staff called Phillips a player with the build of Sean Taylor and the knowledge and quickness of Ed Reed. With that combination, along with physical play that could rival that of any Hurricane linebacker, NFL scouts took notice. Being regarded as the best safety in the game is nothing new with Phillips. While attending Carol High School he was rated the best safety in the prep ranks, earning USA Today Defensive Player of the Year honors as a senior free safety. The Parade All-American and Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team selection was also a member of the USA Today All-USA High School Football team and rated the nation's best safety prospect and 12th-best player regardless of position by Rivals.com. Phillips was ranked as the best safety and the 10th-best overall prospect by Scout.com and the top prospect in Dade County by the Miami Herald. He ranked as the best prospect in the state by the Orlando Sentinel, the second-best overall prospect in the country by the Tampa Tribune, and the 10th-best overall player by Tom Lemming. He was also a member of the Florida Times-Union Super 75 squad and played in the prestigious Army All-American Bowl. He intercepted 16 passes during his career and, as a senior, he finished with 84 tackles, six interceptions, three fumble recoveries, four defensive touchdowns and three punt returns for touchdowns. As a junior, he delivered 54 tackles and seven interceptions, returning two of them for touchdowns, including a 100-yarder. As a sophomore, he made three interceptions and also competed in basketball and track. In 2005, Phillips enrolled at Miami, choosing the university over scholarship offers from Tennessee, Florida State and North Carolina State. He earned Freshman All-American and All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors from The Sporting News, Rivals.com and College Football News. He started the final 11 games of the year at free safety, replacing an injured Anthony Reddick. He ranked third on the team with 67 tackles (40 solo), adding three stops for losses, two quarterback pressures, two pass breakups, a fumble recovery and an interception. As a sophomore, Phillips received third-team All-American honors from Rivals.com and was a second-team All-ACC choice, even though he missed the final three regular-season games with a broken thumb. He was one of eight Miami players selected to the 2006 ACC Academic Football Team and was named the team's Defensive Back of the Year. He made 54 tackles (39 solo) with six stops behind the line of scrimmage in ten games, starting at cornerback, free safety and strong safety. He also picked off four passes and deflected six others. As a junior, Phillips was named All-American first-team by The NFL Draft Report, adding All-ACC first-team accolades. He started all 12 games at free safety, ranking second on the team with 82 tackles (54 solo). He registered six stops for losses and caused three fumbles. He also deflected five passes and came up with a pair of interceptions. Phillips announced after the 2007 season that he will enter the 2008 NFL Draft as an underclassman. Phillips was advised by Miami head coach Randy Shannon to return for his senior season should he not be projected to go in the top 15, but he conceded it would be tough to turn away from a first-round projection. ''I definitely agree that if you're [projected] in the top 15 you should go,'' Phillips said. ``It's not every day that guys get the opportunity

Regarded as the premier defensive lineman in his area coming out of high school, Kentwan Balmer finally lived up to his vast potential as a senior with the Tar Heels. The former defensive end was shifted to defensive tackle as a junior, but it was not until the arrival of coach Butch Davis that Balmer excelled on the football field. Davis took the talented youngster under his wing and Balmer surpassed his cumulative statistical production from his first three seasons during his final year. Balmer earned All-Area and All-Conference honors as a junior and senior at Weldon High School. The 2003 Area Defensive Player of the Year helped the team produce three shutouts in their first six games that year. He posted 113 tackles, 12 sacks, eight pass breakups and six fumble recoveries his final campaign. As a junior, he registered 103 tackles, 11 sacks and scored a defensive touchdown on a fumble recovery. He was also a member of the North Carolina Shrine Bowl Team. Balmer enrolled at North Carolina in 2004. The 250-pound right defensive end saw limited action in nine games, coming up with one assisted tackle. As a sophomore, he added more than 30 pounds to his frame and would appear in 11 games. He started the final three contests at right defensive end for an injured Tommy Davis, responding with 17 tackles (eight solo), a sack, five stops for losses and five quarterback pressures. He also deflected one pass. In 2007, Balmer appeared in 10 games, starting the final eight contests at left defensive tackle. An early season right high ankle sprain forced him to miss the Virginia Tech and Furman clashes and he later re-injured his ankle in the second half vs. Wake Forest. He was in on 16 tackles (14 solo) with 2 1/2 sacks. He added one pressure, as he also blocked two extra point attempts and batted away a pair of passes. As a senior, Balmer shifted to right defensive tackle. He earned second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference accolades and received the team's James Southerland Award (captain), as he ranked second on the team with 59 tackles (33 solo). He collected 3 1/2 sacks, 9 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage and four pressures. In 42 games at North Carolina, Balmer started 23 times. He collected 93 tackles (55 solo) with seven sacks for minus-52 yards, 17 stops for losses of 79 total yards and 10 quarterback pressures. He also deflected three passes and blocked a pair of kicks.

With a thumb injury sidelining him for five games in 2006, O'Connell entered his senior year barely a blip on the NFL radar. He proved his health -- and ability -- as a senior, however, and ranks as one of the draft's more intriguing developmental quarterback prospects. Blessed with a rare combination of size and athleticism, O'Connell has shown considerable improvement over the past two years in his reading of defenses and overall passing accuracy.

There may be bigger names in college football, but the statistics prove it - there isn't a more consistent big-play threat in the country than Robinson. At the end of the 2007 season, Robinson became the NCAA career all-purpose yards per play record holder with a 16.16 average on 6,479 career yards in 401 plays. Robinson, or "K-Rob," is a very good athlete with the blend of initial quickness, acceleration and top end speed to help an NFL team early in his career as a receiver and return specialist - a position from which he has generated nine scores on a combination of punts and kickoffs - including one during the East West Shrine Game.

After a spectacular junior season that saw him approach Barry Sanders' single-season Division-I rushing record of 2,628 yards (Smith finished 61 yards short), Smith enters the 2008 draft as one of the country's hottest running back prospects. While there are concerns about his level of competition and pure speed, scouts' greatest worry may be Smith's thin frame. There is no denying his natural ability as a runner, however, as Smith is patient with excellent vision and rare agility and acceleration for a back of his size.

After flashing exciting potential early in his career, Dunlap struggled with consistency as a senior, though scouts are quick to note he has the size and athleticism to warrant development. Dunlap's rare size, quick feet and long arms make him a unique tackle prospect who flashes pass blocking potential. However, he needs to develop more physicality and aggression as a run blocker if he is to maximize his impressive potential.

Any player who starts for almost four full years at The Ohio State University should be considered a very solid pro prospect. Barton's not likely to set the Combine on fire with great numbers, but teams can't time his effort with a stopwatch or measure his toughness with a yardstick. He will challenge for playing time early in his NFL career, if the opportunity arrives.

Kapanui originally committed to Southern California out of high school. He has the size and athleticism scouts are looking for at tight end, but his age (24) and level of competition will knock him into the late rounds or free agency. After dropping out of USC due to academics, Kapanui transferred to El Camino Junior College before quitting football to return to his native Hawaii. After two years away from the game, Kapanui flashed potential as a junior, but missed five games due to injury. An All-American senior season, however, has scouts taking a close look.

Lichtensteiger's ability to excel at center or offensive guard is leading to comparisons to Jacksonville's Brad Meester. The Bowling Green team captain has a devastating hand punch and placement to consistently sustain his blocks and shows the nimble feet to get out in front consistently, neutralizing second-level defenders in the ground game. At Crestview High School, Lichtensteiger earned All-Northwest Conference first-team honors as both an offensive and defensive lineman. He was selected that conference's Lineman of the Year as both a junior and senior. He was also named to the All-Ohio and All-District teams in each of his last two seasons and was chosen District Lineman of the Year in 2002. Lichtensteiger registered 100 tackles with six sacks during his junior campaign. As a senior, he produced 125 more tackles, including eight sacks. He finished his career with four letters in both football and basketball. The talented lineman also performed in the weight categories for the school's track team. Lichtensteiger enrolled at Bowling Green in 2003, spending that season performing on the scout team as a center. He shifted to offensive guard, starting all 12 games on the left side. He would go on to start all 44 games in which he appeared for the Falcons. As a freshman, he was named to the Football Writers' Association Freshman All-American team. He added All-Mid American Conference second-team honors, as he made 94 key blocks/knockdowns, including 15 that led to BGSU touchdowns, finishing with an 85.5% grade for blocking consistency. As a sophomore, Lichtensteiger was again named to the All-MAC second-team. He helped the offense average 427.7 yards per game in total offense, as he started 11 times at left offensive guard. He paced the offensive line with 12 touchdown-resulting blocks, coming up with 90 key blocks en route to grading 84.36%. Lichtensteiger shifted to center as a junior in 2006. He quickly acclimated to his new position, delivering 92 key blocks/knockdowns, with 10 of them leading to Falcons' touchdowns. He earned All-MAC first-team and Academic All-Conference honors and shared team MVP accolades with Devon Parks. Behind the center's trap blocks, the rushing attack led the conference, averaging 176.7 yards per game on the ground. As a senior, Lichtensteiger registered 16 touchdown-resulting blocks through the team's first nine games. He posted 76 knockdowns and provided outstanding pass protection, as the Falcons improved their aerial attack to 300.1 yards per game from 169.1 yards the previous season. Lichtensteiger boasts a string of 44 consecutive starts, lining up at left offensive guard for his first 23 games before shifting to center for the next 19 contests. He has collected 352 key blocks/knockdowns, including 53 that led to BGSU touchdowns. He delivered 28 of those blocks downfield and leads all of college football's active centers with a career blocking consistency grade of 85.45%.

With fellow senior Thomas Brown and super-frosh Knowshon Moreno taking most of the carries this season, Lumpkin struggled to get on the field. Still, his strong interior running and soft hands out of the backfield make him a legitimate sleeper prospect for the NFL. Lumpkin lacks the speed and elusiveness to consistently make defenders miss, but he's a reliable one-cut runner who can be found late and add toughness to a team's rushing attack.

The 2007 Buck Buchanan Award winner as the best defensive player in the Football Championship Series (formerly D-IAA), Biermann will have to make the transition from his customary defensive end position to outside linebacker in the NFL. Biermann used his burst off the snap, instincts and high motor to rack up gaudy numbers last season (72 tackles, 15 sacks, five forced fumbles) in helping lead Montana to a national championship.

When Wright signed with Miami he was widely considered the top prep quarterback prospect in the country, but his play has regressed each of the past three seasons. Wright has good size, athleticism and the quick release NFL scouts are looking for. With his natural ability, there will be a team willing to take a late-round chance on Wright as a developmental prospect even though he lacks a monster arm.

: The hype in Columbus was great when this 2005 Junior College National Player of the Year (City College of San Francisco) decided to come to town. But Grant really never became a star for the Buckeyes, partially because he played on the strong side while James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman racked up more than 200 tackles between them in 2007. However, Grant has the size and made enough plays to be noticed by NFL scouts as a potential late-round find.

After previous stops at Louisiana State and San Francisco City College, Lavelle Hawkins found a home as an all-purpose player for the Bears. In three seasons at California, he ranked seventh in school history with 159 receptions, sixth with 2,273 yards receiving, seventh with 16 touchdown catches and seventh with 3,729 all-purpose yards. At Edison High School, Hawkins earned Parade All-American honors and was one of the nation's most recruited wide receivers. He was ranked as the fourth-best athlete and 73rd overall player in the United States by Rivals.com, as that service also pegged him the 10th-best overall player in the state of California. Hawkins gained more than 1,000 yards receiving and 800 yards rushing as a senior, when he was named the Stockton Record's Area Player of the Year. He caught 53 passes for almost 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns as a junior, and also collected 75 tackles, four interceptions, three forced fumbles and two sacks at free safety. He enrolled at Louisiana State, attending 2004 spring drills, but then abruptly left the school and enrolled at the City College of San Francisco. He had to sit out the first three games to get his transcripts processed from LSU, but in seven contests, he ranked second on the team with 23 receptions for 525 yards (22.8-yard average) and four touchdowns. He returned nine punts for 135 yards (15.0-yard average) and a score and averaged 48.3 yards on three kickoff returns, returning one for a touchdown. In 2005, Hawkins transferred to California. He played in nine games, sitting out the opener vs. Sacramento State awaiting the NCAA Clearinghouse to approve his transfer and sat out the Arizona game with a high left ankle sprain. He started three games, coming up with 18 catches for 171 yards (9.5-yard average) and a touchdown. He gained 31 yards on three reverses and 129 yards on seven kickoff returns (18.4 avg). As a junior, Hawkins earned All-Pac-10 Conference honorable mention. He started five of 13 games as a slot receiver, finishing second on the squad with 46 grabs for 705 yards (15.3-yard average) and five touchdowns. He also carried three times for 36 yards. Rated the top senior wide receiver in the country by ESPN entering the season, Hawkins secured All-Pac-10 Conference second-team accolades, despite starting just two of 13 games at split end. He led the team with a career-high 72 catches, the fourth-best in Cal history. He gained 872 receiving yards (12.1-yard average), good for ninth on the school's single-season list. He also had six touchdown receptions. Hawkins also rushed seven times for 60 yards and returned 42 kickoffs for a school-record 922 yards (22-yard average) and a touchdown. He finished fourth in the conference with 1,854 all-purpose yards, the third-best season total in school history. In 35 games at California, Hawkins started 10 games. He caught 136 passes for 1,748 yards (12.9-yard average) and 12 touchdowns. He rushed 13 times for 127 yards (9.8-yard average) and made a pair of solo tackles. He returned 49 kickoffs for 1,051 yards (21.4 avg) and a score, as he also amassed 2,926 all-purpose yards. For his entire collegiate career, Hawkins started 17 of 42 games. He gained 2,273 yards with 16 touchdowns on 159 receptions (14.3-yard average). He totaled 125 yards on 14 carries (8.9 avg) and 1,196 yards with a pair of scores on 52 kickoff returns (23.0 avg). He also returned nine punts for 135 yards (15.0 avg) and a touchdown, generating 3,729 all-purpose yards, an average of 88.79 yards per game.

One of the Trojans' top playmakers since arriving on campus, Jackson would go on to start 51 of 52 games during his collegiate career, coming off the bench vs. Brigham Young in the third contest of the 2004 season. The defensive end made a nice living terrorizing opposing quarterbacks, as he registered 30.5 sacks with 52 tackles behind the line of scrimmage during his time at Southern California. Jackson contemplated leaving school early and applying for the 2007 NFL Draft, but former teammate, receiver Steve Smith (New York Giants), convinced him to return for his senior campaign. Smith went through the same thoughts after his junior year, but by returning to school he elevated his draft stock and was selected with the 51st pick in the second round of the 2007 draft. "Coming back helped me a lot. I lucked out," Smith said. "I talked to Lawrence, and he said, `If you're unsure, you should come back.' That's how I was a year ago." Former teammates have marveled at his progress over the years, as several of them took him under their wing earlier in his career. Asked what he learned from some of his former teammates, like All-American defensive linemen Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson, Jackson replied, "They all taught me the attitude that I need to attack everything and have a sense of urgency at all times." At Inglewood High School, Jackson earned 2002 Super Prep, Prep Star, Student Sports, Tom Lemming, CNNSI.com and The Insiders.com All-American first-team honors. He was a member of the Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, The Sporting News Hot 100, Tom Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Tom Lemming All-West and Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first-team squads. The Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15, Cal-Hi Sports All-State, All-CIF Division III, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Los Angeles Times All-South Bay/ Westside Lineman MVP and South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay first-team pick also received All-Bay League MVP honors as a senior. He recorded 142 tackles, with 11 sacks, four fumble recoveries and two interceptions in 2002 while playing on the defensive line and at middle linebacker. As a junior in 2001, he made the Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass, All-CIF Division X and Los Angeles Times All-Star squads. The Los Angeles Times All-South Bay Lineman of the Year also picked up South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay first team and All-Ocean League Defensive MVP accolades. He registered 134 tackles, including 22 sacks, plus two interceptions (one returned for a TD), seven forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and three blocked kicks in 2001, leading the team to the 2001 CIF Division X semifinals. During Jackson's sophomore season, Inglewood advanced to the CIF Division X finals. In his career, he had 57 sacks. He also was on Inglewood's track team. Jackson enrolled at Southern California in 2003, but spent the season on the service team, earning that squad's Defensive Player of the Year Award. He underwent surgery on his right ankle after that season to have debris removed. He went on to earn a spot in the starting lineup the following season, picking up Freshman All-American and All-Pac 10 Conference Freshman Team recognition. In 13 games, he made 32 tackles (19 solos) and tied for second on the team with six sacks, adding 11 stops for losses and an interception. As a sophomore, he was an All-American third-team and All-Pac 10 Conference first-team choice, in addition to being selected the team's Defensive Lineman of the Year. He ranked fourth in the conference with a team-high 10 sacks and was second on the squad with 13 stops for losses. He caused four fumbles, recovered two others, blocked a kick and deflected six passes. Jackson's left groin injury early in the 2006 season saw him undergo a bit of a slump. Head coach Pete Carroll recommended to him that he read W. Timothy Gallwey's "The Inner Game of Tennis." "At fir

One of the most electrifying return specialists in the game, Leodis McKelvin also developed into a standout cover cornerback during his time with the Trojans. Even though he touched the ball only twice on offense, he amassed a school all-time record 3,909 all-purpose yards, the third-best career total in Sun Belt Conference history. His eight total kicks returned for touchdowns (seven punts, one kickoff) tied the NCAA Division 1-A record. His 211 total returned kicks (99 kickoffs/112 punts) topped the previous collegiate record of 203 by Deltha O'Neal of California (1996-99) and his 3,817 total kick return yards also established an NCAA record, surpassing O'Neal's old mark of 3,455 yards. At Ware County High School, McKelvin earned first-team Class AAAA All-State honors from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Georgia Sportswriters Association. As a senior, he was named Area Defensive Player of the Year, as well as to the Georgia Times Union Super 11 team. He participated in the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association North-South All-Star Game after his final campaign. McKelvin started at left cornerback, helping lead the team to a 9-2 record, a regional title and a second-round AAAA playoff appearance in 2003. That year, he recorded 51 tackles, recovered three fumbles, intercepted six passes and broke up six others. He also blocked two field-goal attempts. As a junior, he posted 60 tackles and six interceptions on defense and also had eight receptions for over 300 yards as a receiver. In addition to football, he was a member of the Ware County basketball team. As a true freshman at Troy, McKelvin played in 12 games as a reserve cornerback, seeing most of his action on special teams and the defensive sub package. He posted 17 tackles (13 solos), returned an interception 71 yards for a touchdown and broke up one pass. He ranked second in the Sun Belt Conference and 29th nationally with 26 punt returns for 304 yards (11.7-yard average) and a pair of scores. He also ranked second in the league with 15 kickoff returns for 328 yards (21.9 avg), gaining 703 all-purpose yards. A finalist for the National Return Man of the Year Award, McKelvin was named second-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a return specialist in 2005. He appeared in 11 games as a reserve cornerback, collecting 30 tackles (26 solo) with a nine-yard sack and a fumble recovery. He deflected six passes and blocked one kick. He also led the conference and ranked 16th nationally with 33 punt returns for 417 yards (12.6-yard average) and a touchdown. He led the league with 619 yards and a score on 24 kickoff returns (25.8 avg), becoming the first player in school history to score on an interception, kickoff return and punt return in a career. McKelvin was an All-American honorable mention and All-Sun Belt Conference choice as a return specialist in 2006. He scored once on 28 punt returns for 314 yards (11.2-yard average) and had 27 kickoff returns for 634 yards (23.5 avg). He started all 13 games at left cornerback, delivering 66 tackles (56 solo) with two quarterback pressures and a pair of forced fumbles. He also intercepted one pass and batted away seven others. McKelvin earned All-American and All-Sun Belt Conference first-team honors as a senior. In 12 starts at left cornerback, he registered a career-high 60 tackles (50 solo) and 2.5 stops for minus-6 yards. He caused three fumbles and returned a fumble recovery 36 yards. He lost nine yards on two interceptions and broke up nine passes. He ranked fourth in the nation with 25 punt returns for 436 yards (17.4-yard average) and a conference record three touchdowns. He finished third in the league with 33 kickoff returns for 765 yards (23.2 avg), and led the Trojans with 1,228 all-purpose yards. In 48 games at Troy, McKelvin started 25 times. He recorded 173 tackles (145 solo) with a nine-yard sack and 4.5 stops for losses of 18 yards. He caused five fumbles, recovering two others, including one th

An athletic defensive tackle with the size scouts are looking for, Guion elected to leave Florida State after a junior season in which he led the Seminoles' defensive line in tackles despite entering the year as a backup. The primary reserve behind Andre Fluellen, Guion moved into the starting lineup when Fluellen went down with an injury and posted 31 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss. Guion has prototype size for the position and flashes quickness and strength at the point of attack. While he has undeniable upside, he also is very raw and would have been well served returning for his senior season.

Lex Hilliard was sorely missed in the starting lineup for the Grizzlies in 2006, but he was able to return, fully recovered, from a torn left Achilles tendon, an injury suffered in '06 fall drills. During his grueling rehabilitation, the powerful tailback added more bulk and strength to his frame while also improving his overall quickness. He has the raw power to carry defenders into the end zone and scored 40 touchdowns on the ground. He is only the fourth Montana player to score over 250 points (252) in a career and just the second player in school history to rush for over 3,000 yards (3,241). Hilliard was a multi-sport standout at Flathead High School, where he earned four letters in football, three in track, and one in wrestling. The team's two-time Most Valuable Player on the gridiron, he also garnered All-State and All-Conference football accolades in each of his final three seasons with the squad. During his career, Hilliard set school all-time records by rushing for 3,419 yards and 44 touchdowns and compiling 4,410 all-purpose yards. He holds the school record with 1,384 yards and 14 touchdowns rushing as a sophomore, adding Great Falls Super State Team recognition. Hilliard led the team to the Class AA state championship game as a junior. He participated in the East-West Shrine Game and the Montana-North Dakota All-Star Game. In track, he twice earned All-League honors while competing in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and 4x100 meter relays. He also threw the shot put. His sophomore, junior, and senior track teams all won state AA championships. As a true freshman at Montana in 2003, Hilliard was a valuable reserve, playing in the final 12 games behind Justin Green. Hilliard was originally scheduled to redshirt, but the coaching staff felt he was capable of seeing extended playing time and activated him for the second game of the season. He went on to finish second on the team with 125 carries for 590 yards (4.7-yard average) and five touchdowns. He grabbed nine passes for 117 yards (13.0 avg) and returned a kickoff 12 yards while also posting two tackles. Despite starting just four of 14 games as a sophomore, Hilliard earned All-Big Sky Conference first-team honors. He paced the Grizzlies with 972 yards on 190 attempts (5.1-yard average) and 17 touchdowns (second-best season total in school annals). He made 22 catches for 211 yards (9.6 avg), returned one kickoff eight yards and amassed 1,191 all-purpose yards (85.1 yards per game). Hilliard earned All-American second-team honors from The NFL Draft Report and was again named to the All-Big Sky Conference first-team. He ranked second in the conference in rushing in his first year as a starter, gaining 1,322 yards with 12 touchdowns on 249 carries (5.3-yard average). He added 144 yards and two scores on 11 catches (13.1-yard average) and also attempted a pass. His average of 122.17 all-purpose yards per game ranked fourth in the Big Sky; 110.17 of the per-game total came on the ground. On everyone's preseason All-American list and an early favorite for the Payton Award (Division 1-AA's top player), Hilliard suffered a torn left Achilles tendon midway through August camp and was forced to miss the 2006 season. The ground game averaged 139.36 yards per game in his absence, compared to 162.17 yards with Hilliard in the lineup in 2005. In 11 games in '07, Hilliard gained 102.9 rushing yards per game -- 1,132 rushing yards -- and scored 16 touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards on 242 carries. He caught 15 passes for 119 yards with a long gain of 24 yards and averaged 7.9 yards per reception. With 1,251 total yards, he averaged 113.7 all-purpose yards per game. In 49 games at Montana, Hilliard gained 4,016 rushing yards and scored 50 rushing touchdowns and 52 total TDs. He carried the ball 806 times and averaged five yards per carry in his career (82 rushing yards per game) with a long gain of 69 yards in 2005. Only Yohance Humphery (4,070 yards, 1998

Entering his final season, Sweed was rated the best receiver in college football and one of the nation's top 25 draft prospects by ESPN. However, a left wrist injury that started to bother him in spring camp carried over into fall drills. The injury would force Sweed to the sidelines for stretches throughout the first six games of his final season. His year would finally come to a close after he underwent surgery in mid-October to repair ligament damage. Before his career would come to a close, Sweed etched his name into the Longhorns' record books. The two-time All-Big 12 selection ranks second in school history with 20 touchdown catches. While starting 39 consecutive games, he totaled 1,915 yards receiving, the fifth-best season total in Texas history. He also hauled in 124 passes, good for sixth place on UT's all-time record list. Sweed formed an instant bond with quarterback Colt McCoy, who threw 15 touchdowns to the receiver. "I think he gets overlooked a lot because he's a great receiver -- he has such great hands," McCoy said. "When we have running plays, anytime we make a big play, it's because Limas is down there making a block." Sweed lettered three times as a wide receiver and free safety at Brenham High School. He was a Class 4A second-team All-State and first-team All-Greater Houston selection on offense and an All-District honoree on both sides of the ball as a senior, playing in the 2003 U.S. Army All-American game. He also earned 4A honorable mention All-State and All-District honors as a junior, and while primarily playing defense he was tabbed the District's Sophomore of the Year in 2000. Nearly half of his 72 catches (31) in his final three seasons went for touchdowns. Sweed also averaged 23.4 yards per reception (72 for 1,684 yards), as he helped lead the team to a 14-2 record and a berth in the Texas 4A Division II Championship game in 2002. He caught 38 passes for 796 yards and 12 touchdowns, adding 44 tackles and five interceptions on defense that year. Sweed had 22 receptions for 656 yards and 13 scores and added a pair of interceptions as the team posted an 11-2 record during his junior season. As a sophomore, he recorded 89 tackles and three interceptions, adding 12 catches for 232 yards and six touchdowns that season. He also lettered four times in track, performing mostly in the hurdles. Sweed placed fourth in the 110-meter hurdles (14.10 seconds) at the 2003 Texas 4A track-and-field meet and finished sixth as a junior (14.34). He lettered four times in basketball as a forward, earning All-District honors as a junior after averaging 12 points and eight rebounds per game. After redshirting at Texas in 2003, Sweed took over split end duties for the final seven contests of the 2004 campaign. He went on to catch 23 passes for 263 yards (11.4 avg) and also made a solo tackle in 11 contests. Sweed earned All-Big 12 Conference honorable mention as a sophomore. Starting 13 games for the national championship squad, he came up with 36 receptions for 545 yards (15.1 avg) and five touchdowns while also making a pair of solo tackles. With the team opening up its passing attack in 2006, Sweed paced the Longhorns with 46 catches for 801 yards (17.4 avg) and 12 touchdowns, setting a school record with at least one scoring grab in seven consecutive games. The All-Big 12 Conference first-team pick also gained 5 yards on a rushing attempt and scored 72 points. After his junior campaign, reports filtered to the media that Sweed was going to file early for the 2007 NFL Draft. The receiver quickly shot down those rumors. "I feel like I'm a leader on this team, and I want to be a positive influence on the younger guys," said Sweed. "That's why I think it's important for me to come back, develop as a player and get my degree. My intention is to help this team win as many games as we can." Injuries sidetracked Sweed in 2007, ending his season after six games. In and out of the lineup d

Perhaps due to Arizona's struggles throughout his career, Dotson hasn't received a great deal of national attention despite flashing legitimate athleticism and strength. As a senior, he took matters into his own hands, enjoying a breakout campaign that included 50 tackles and 6.5 sacks to earn Second Team Pac-10 honors. Dotson's consistency remains a question, but he flashes the quickness, size, strength and experience to ultimately compete for a starting position at tackle in a 4-3 scheme or end in a 3-4.

Versatile athlete who originally signed with Florida State out of high school, Sam saw action as a quarterback and wide receiver for the Miners, and was arguably his most productive running the football. His best chance in the NFL is at wide receiver, where his size and athleticism make him an intriguing developmental prospect. With only rudimentary route-running and inconsistent hands, however, Sam is very much a project.

After posting 192 tackles, 40 tackles for loss and 16 sacks while at Scottsdale Community College, Holmes was almost universally ranked as the elite JUCO prospect in the country before signing with Arizona. Though he certainly looks the part and showed flashes while with the Wildcats, his production simply never materialized at the D-I level. Holmes' size-speed package will be enough to entice some NFL team to take a chance, but he displayed little on the football field while at Arizona to warrant consideration. A classic boom or bust prospect.

In a program known for its running game, Malcolm Kelly might not have gotten as many opportunities as other lead receivers. He made the most of the chances he did have, making the passing game another weapon in the Sooners' arsenal over the last three years from the split end position. Despite playing only three seasons at Oklahoma, he finished his career as the school's fifth-leading receiver with 144 catches. He also ranks second on the Sooners' all-time record list for receiving yardage (2,285), touchdown catches (21) and games with at least 100 yards receiving (nine). His 21 scoring receptions also rank tied for seventh in Big Twelve Conference history. At Longview High School, Kelly was a three-time All-District first-team wide receiver, adding All-State accolades as a junior and senior. He was named first-team All-East Texas by the Texas Sports Writers Association. He received a five-star prospect rating from Scout.com and four stars from Rivals.com. Rivals.com also rated him sixth on their Texas Top 100 List. He was rated the best receiver in Texas by Scout.com and 13th in the nation by ESPN.com. Kelly hauled in 29 passes for 638 yards (22-yard average) and nine touchdowns during his senior campaign. During his junior year, he was credited with 27 receptions for 826 yards (30.6 avg), including six scores. Oklahoma won a recruiting war vs. LSU, Nebraska, Texas and Tennessee for Kelly's services in 2005. He was named to The Sporting News' Freshman All-American team as an honorable mention and All-Big Twelve Conference first-team. He started seven of 11 games, lining up for five contests at flanker before shifting to split end for the final two contests. The true freshman paced the Sooners with 471 yards on 33 catches (14.3-yard average), coming up with a pair of touchdowns. Firmly entrenched at split end, Kelly received second-team All-Big Twelve Conference honors in 2006. He led the team in receiving for the second straight year, coming up with a career-high 62 receptions for 993 yards (16.0-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. He also posted one solo tackle. He averaged 70.93 yards receiving per game, the fifth-best total in the league that year, but he had a concussion early in the year vs. Texas A&M and suffered knee cartilage damage vs. Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl and was limited in 2007 spring drills. Kelly helped break in a new quarterback in Sam Bradford in 2007, as the receiver earned All-Big Twelve second-team recognition. He ranked second on the team, grabbing 49 passes for 821 yards (16.8-yard average) and nine touchdowns. He missed most of the Oklahoma State clash with a hip pointer suffered on the game's first play and for the second straight year, he made an early exit from the Fiesta Bowl with a leg contusion. In 39 games at Oklahoma, Kelly started 34 times, including 29 at split end and five more at flanker. He finished with 144 receptions for 2,285 yards (15.9-yard average) and 21 touchdowns. He also recorded a pair of solo tackles.

Despite earning all-conference honors after each of past two seasons, Dixon is more known for his off-field issues than on-field production. Originally signing with Vanderbilt out of high school, Dixon was arrested and jailed for statutory rape. The Georgia Supreme Court later ruled the sex was consensual, overturning the case and releasing Dixon from prison after he served 15 months. While quite raw, Dixon is a versatile player with the size and strength to project either at defensive end or tackle and has the athletic tools worth developing.

A versatile defender with experience at strong and free safety. He might be best at strong safety and is at his best attacking the line of scrimmage against the run.