DRAFT TRACKER 2008

Despite his impressive 40 time and success as a kick returner, Branch struggles changing directions. An instinctive, physical defensive back, Branch is best suited to playing cornerback in a two-deep scheme or making the transition to free safety. A team leader, Branch was responsible for the secondary calls from his cornerback position - a role usually reserved for safeties.

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.

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.

The Titans have not surrounded quarterback Vince Young with talented receivers, and this year's draft was no exception. The Titans spent their first pick on running back Chris Johnson. Tennessee did draft receiver Lavelle Hawkins in the fourth round. On defense, the loss of ends Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy led the team to take defensive end Jason Jones in the second round.

After missing the second half of his junior campaign due to a left ankle sprain, the physical tackler had a banner final season for the Rebels, elevating his draft stock to among the elite at his position. Known for his aggressive nature on the football field, the weak-side linebacker is likely to shift to middle linebacker in the NFL to take advantage of his ability to neutralize the inside ground game. At Tustin High School, Bell's versatility proved to be invaluable. He competed at safety, outside and inside linebacker, defensive end, tailback and fullback during his career, in addition to handling place-kicking and punting chores. He was a two-time All-Century League and Defensive Most Valuable Player, as he produced 150 tackles, five sacks and two interceptions as a senior for the Tillers. He also carried the ball 55 times for 506 yards and eight touchdowns for the 2003 league champs. He was selected to play in the prestigious Cal-Florida Game and registered five tackles. As a true freshman at UNLV, Bell appeared in 11 games as a reserve weak-side outside linebacker, lining up in that unit alongside his older brother Zach (2001-04). Beau Bell posted 26 tackles (16 solo) and a stop for a loss. He also recovered and caused one fumble. As a sophomore, Bell battled through a groin injury all year, but still earned second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors. He appeared in 11 games, starting the final seven at middle linebacker. He would go on to rank second on the squad with 92 tackles (50 solo), adding 3 1/2 sacks and 7 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He also batted away a pair of passes. A member of the 2006 Butkus Award Watch List and a preseason All-MWC first-team choice, Bell saw his junior season come to an end in the team's seventh game vs. Brigham Young, when he suffered a left ankle sprain. He still managed to finish second on the squad with 76 tackles (41 solo), delivering four sacks and nine stops for losses. He was leading the MWC in tackles at the time of his injury. In '07, Bell earned All-Mountain West Conference first-team honors and was named Defensive Player of the Year. He was the first player in MWC annals to earn Defensive Player of the Week honors three times in the same season. He was also the recipient of the Rebels' team MVP and Captain Award honors. In addition, he received the Bill "Wildcat" Morris Most Inspirational Award and the "Doc" Tobler Senior Award, which is given to the final-year player who brings the highest credit to himself and the university. Still, because of a lack of recognition, the only All-American honor he received came from The NFL Draft Report. Bell's MWC Defensive Player of the Year Award marked the fourth time a Rebel earned the conference honor, joining two-time winner Jamaal Brimmer (2002, '03 -- media only), Kevin Thomas (2001) and Aaron Moog (1984). Bell is also the first UNLV linebacker to earn such an honor. "It's a big deal being named the player of the year for this conference because the coaches vote along with the media," said Bell. "We worked hard all year as a team and this is a great way to wrap up my college career. Despite our final record I had a lot of fun playing with these guys and will never forget my senior year as a Rebel." Bell started all 12 games at weak-side linebacker, leading the team and league with a career-high 126 tackles (79 solo), with three sacks and 9 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He led the conference and tied for fourth in the nation with five forced fumbles and deflected three passes while intercepting four others, returning one for a touchdown. "Beau Bell made a decision in the spring and summer to be a great player and he went out and made that a reality in the fall," said UNLV head coach Mike Sanford. "He gave us both great performance and leadership and will leave that legacy for the future of this program." In 41 games at Nevada-Las Vegas, Bell started 26 times (seven at middle

Missouri's excellent season saw the stock of quarterback Chase Daniel, tight ends Martin Rucker and Chase Coffman, freshman phenom Jeremy Maclin and even running back Tony Temple rise to new heights. Lost in the shuffle to most college football fans was the play of Franklin, a big-play threat who averaged more than 14 yards per catch in 2007 and more than 17 in 2006. NFL defenses won't be able to double him as much as Big 12 opponents did, so he should make an impact as a No. 3 receiver relatively quickly in his career.

A size/speed prospect who produced the breakout season many predicted in 2007, attaining first team All-Mountain West accolades with 91 catches for 1,125 yards and four touchdowns. Used as an all-purpose runner and receiver early in his career, he became a go-to playmaker for his quarterbacks.

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

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%.

Offensive linemen usually spend their careers in relative anonymity, but NFL scouts' eyes were fixed on Pittsburgh's twin tackles during the 2007 season. One of the most versatile blockers in the collegiate ranks, the talented right tackle has the nimble feet and slide to play left tackle, the short-area quickness and angle-blocking skill to lead on traps and sweeps as an offensive guard and the deep-snapping skills and hand quickness to possibly shift to center at the pro level. McGlynn, a vocal leader of the Pitt front wall, shows great passion and desire on his 2006 film. His own coaches did not realize that he played a good portion of the season with a right hand injury and a torn labrum in his left shoulder that required surgery after the season. The shoulder surgery would force him to sit out 2007 spring drills. Still, he refused to come off the field, extending his string of starts to 31 straight games while appearing in 35 contests to date for Pittsburgh. McGlynn lettered three times in football as a defensive end and offensive tackle at Austin-town Fitch High School. The All-Steel Valley selection was also a Super Prep All-Midwest and Prep Star All-Region choice. He was rated one of the state of Ohio's top 40 prep players by Rivals.com and was selected to play in the Big 33 Football Classic. He was limited to four games as a senior due to a right fibula fracture. He also lettered twice in baseball, adding All-Steel Valley accolades. McGlynn enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh in 2003, spending the season performing on the scout team as an offensive tackle. He was the recipient of the 2004 Ed Conway Award, given to the team's Most Improved Player, as he played in all 12 games. His stellar play in reserve early in the season saw the coaching staff insert him into the starting lineup at right offensive tackle ahead of senior Dale Williams for the final eight games of the 2004 season. He also served as the Panthers' snapper on placement kicks. The 2005 season was a virtual repeat of '04, as McGlynn again was chosen for the Ed Conway Award, continuing to show vast improvement blocking from his right tackle position. That year, he graded 82.9% for blocking consistency with 69 key blocks, including nine that resulted in touchdowns. He also continued performing as the team's long snapper for field goals and extra points. As a junior, McGlynn's performance level continued to improve. Despite injuries that limited him the second half of the year, he graded 84.3% for blocking consistency, provided key blocks on 16 scoring drives and delivered 86 knockdowns. He did not allow any quarterback pressures for the season and gave up sacks in only one game. In 2007, McGlynn shifted to right offensive guard for the first three games, but his replacement at right tackle struggled and the coaches moved him back to his original position after the Michigan State game. He saw limited action in the season opener vs. Eastern Michigan while still recovering from his '06 shoulder injury, but finished the season with 100 knockdowns/key blocks, including 17 resulting in touchdowns while making 13 more blocks downfield.

Murphy is best known for being the son of former Atlanta Braves outfielder Dale Murphy. An intriguing late-round developmental prospect, Shawn Murphy consistently improved throughout his career with the Aggies despite switching positions between his junior and senior seasons. Having originally signed as a defensive end, Murphy made the transition to the offensive line after serving an LDS Mission and transferring first to Dixie State Junior College and finally Utah State. Despite good weight room strength, Murphy relies more on his athleticism and grit than strength at the point of attack.

For more than two decades, tight ends at Missouri and in what is know the Big Twelve have been measured against former Mizzou great and NFL Hall of Famer Kellen B. Winslow. With a stellar career in which he started all 50 games and set school records -- including the overall reception record -- and new marks for Big Twelve tight ends, Martin Rucker became the standard-bearer at this position. Nebraska's loss was Missouri's gain, as the little brother of former Huskers and present Carolina Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker, decided that he would enroll at the rival school rather than reside in Lincoln, Nebraska. Very close to his oldest brother, Martin Rucker was often found at the Panthers' training facility or their games when not involved with the Missouri football program. That bond helped soothe the youngster after he withdrew his name from consideration for the 2007 NFL Draft as an underclassman. The NFL advisory board had informed Martin Rucker last year that he was regarded as only a fifth-round prospect. With that information, Martin Rucker wisely chose the course of returning to school for his final season. "I'm glad that I looked into this, it was a good experience to go through, and the feedback I got was really positive," said Rucker. "I'm very excited about the chance to eventually play in the NFL, but I believe that playing one more year at Mizzou will be the best for me. We have some business to take care of next year, and I want to be a part of what I believe can be a special season." Missouri has been blessed with a wealth of talent at the tight end position the last three years. Even though Rucker was the starter, Chase Coffman was often utilized in two-tight end formations, giving the Tigers the best tandem in football at that position. Andy Hill, the Missouri assistant who was the lead recruiter of both tight ends, contends the common perception of the two stars isn't totally correct. Rucker is looked at, generally, as the more powerful of the two players, Coffman more as a speedy wide receiver-type. But Rucker's 40 time is 4.63 seconds compared with Coffman's 4.8. "Chase, he's a quicker person in separation than he is fast running," said Hill, Missouri's wide receivers coach. "He catches the ball away from his body, too, so he can catch even if he's covered pretty well. Rucker is more of a smoother, athletic guy. Rucker, the first time I saw him in high school he was running track; a triple-jumper, a sprinter." At Benton High School, Rucker was a standout tight end and defensive end. He earned first-team All-State honors as a tight end and first-team All-District and All-Conference accolades at both tight end and defensive end. He was ranked 28th among the nation's tight end prospects by Rivals.com, and as the 12th-best prospect of any position in the state of Missouri by the same outlet. A Super Prep All-Midlands and 51st-rated player, Rucker had 23 catches for 207 yards and two touchdowns while recording 64 tackles and seven quarterback sacks on the defensive side of the ball in his final campaign. As a junior, he caught 25 passes for 340 yards and three scores, adding 54 tackles on the defensive side of the ball. He also had eight catches for 99 yards as a sophomore in 2000. An excellent all-around athlete, Rucker added All-District and All-Conference honors in basketball. He also excelled in track, placing 12th in the state in the triple-jump. He won conference and district titles in the triple-jump, as well as a conference championship in the long jump. Choosing Missouri over Nebraska as his college was an easy decision. It kept him close to his family in Jefferson City, where his father, Martin, is a member of the House of Representatives in the state of Missouri. He spent the 2003 season on the Tigers scout team and was limited in 2004 preseason practices due to a right labrum tear that eventually required surgery in March of his redshirt campaign. He would start al

Like many of his teammates, Collins took advantage of a successful season for his Jayhawk squad. His move from right to left tackle only helped his cause, even though he may end up moving back as a rookie. He's so massive and athletic it's hard not to watch him when Kansas had the ball. NFL teams will like his playing attitude just as much as his athleticism.

A relative unknown when he arrived at San Jose State, following an outstanding career at Cabrillo College, Lowery made his mark as one of the top pass defenders in college football. A free safety at Cabrillo College, Lowery credits his experience at the position and special teams for his seamless adjustment to the cornerback position at the major college level. He became the first San Jose State player to earn All-American honors in consecutive seasons (2006-07). At Soquel High School, Lowery was a two-time All-Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League pick as a defensive back, adding All-League accolades as a senior running back. He set school records with 23 rushing touchdowns and 25 total scores in 2003. That year, he set the county record with seven touchdowns vs. Sacred Heart of San Francisco High. In 20 games on defense, he intercepted a school-record 20 passes. Lowery also lettered in basketball. A three-year starter for the basketball team, he earned League Most Valuable Player honors as a junior. That year, he led his squad to the Central Coast Section Playoffs. Lowery visited San Jose State, Purdue and Utah State during the recruiting period, but enrolled at Cabrillo College to improve his academic standing. As a freshman in 2003, he was named to the All-Nor Cal Combine Team, in addition to earning All-State and All-Coast Conference first-team honors. He led the junior college level with 237 yards gained on eight interceptions, returning two for scores. He averaged 30 yards on 10 kickoff returns, including one for a touchdown. He also scored on a blocked punt and a blocked field goal, adding 69 tackles (48 solos) with two fumble recoveries and six pass breakups. In 2004, the free safety led the nation with 202 yards gained on five pass thefts through the first five games, but missed the rest of the season with a hand injury. He recorded 26 tackles (14 solos) and was named to the All-Nor Cal team, despite his injury. Lowery arrived at San Jose State during fall camp with little fanfare, but quickly seized the left cornerback spot for new head coach Dick Tomey. He would go on to earn All-American and All-Western Conference honors, as he tied Idaho's Stanley Franks for the national lead with nine interceptions. He also deflected seven passes, delivered 48 tackles (23 solos) with three fumble recoveries and averaged 8.4 yards on five punt returns. The cornerback joined linebacker Dave Chaney (1971) as the only Spartans ever named to Playboy's prestigious All-American squad. During the next-to-last scrimmage of '07 spring drills, Lowery collided with running back Cameron Island, and suffered a fractured jaw. He had to have his mouth wired shut for seven weeks to help the healing process, losing more than 10 pounds during that time. As a senior, he also gained punt-return duties, ranking 14th in the nation with 273 yards and a touchdown on 19 attempts (14.37-yard average). The All-Western Athletic Conference defender collected 44 tackles (30 solos) with seven pass deflections and also came up with four interceptions. He was named to the American Football Coaches Association All-American squad, becoming the school's first to be honored in consecutive seasons. Only three others before Lowery -- end Lloyd Thomas (1938), halfback LeRoy Zimmerman (1939) and linebacker Dave Chaney (1971) -- were named to one of the five nationally recognized All-American teams by the NCAA. Thomas, Zimmerman and Chaney were named Associated Press first-team All-American players in their respective senior seasons. "It's an accomplishment for Dwight, our program and the Western Athletic Conference. The great thing for Dwight is he chose to stay in school to get further along towards his (bachelor's) degree and hone his skills for the next level. Certainly receiving this honor and recognition is very gratifying to him," said San Jose State head coach Dick Tomey, AFCA second vice-president. "I'm really proud of him and the fact that he has been able t

Cornerback Leodis McKelvin is a suitable replacement for Nate Clements, whom the Bills lost last year in free agency. Having lost two tight ends in free agency, the Bills had a major need at the position and took Derek Fine in the fourth round. James Hardy provides a valuable target for quarterback Trent Edwards and a complement for speedster Lee Evans.

Moore is a bit of an enigma. Blessed with a rare combination of size, strength and straight-line speed, he has the physical tools to develop into an upper echelon defensive tackle. However, Moore has struggled throughout his career with an inconsistent motor and a lack of instincts. Optimists would point out that he signed with Maryland after playing only two seasons of high school football and improved his play each of his years with the Terps. Pessimists, meanwhile, question why Moore hasn't already become a better player. He has flashed the quickness off the snap to generate big plays throughout his career and has excellent upper body strength to hold up against the double-team. What isn't up for debate is Moore's talent and rise in production. A starter in 10 of 13 games in 2006, Moore registered 47 tackles, including 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. His numbers improved to 63 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and a team-leading 6.0 sacks as a senior.

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.

Some teams will consider Demps at cornerback. As a safety, he isn't the kind of sure tackler you want as the last line of defense. He is generally a consistent stopper and has the athleticism to ultimately perform well in this area, but Demps lacks the physicality and aggression to strike fear into ballcarriers. He lacks top-end timed speed and appears to be a bit of a one-speed runner who may lack the second gear to accelerate when challenged deep.

An invaluable performer for the Hokies throughout his career, Xavier Adibi joined Vince Hall in forming one of the best linebacker tandems in college football. The duo would go on to record 695 tackles, 20 1/2 quarterback sacks, 60 stops behind the line of scrimmage and 52 pressures during their time together at Tech. With his excellent range and quickness, Adibi will probably shift to outside linebacker in the NFL. Alert when playing zone coverage, Adibi gets excellent depth on his pass drops, and a team could choose to convert him to strong safety. At Phoebus High School, Adibi was named an All-American by Prep Star as a defensive lineman and an All-American by Super Prep as a linebacker. The 2002 AAA first-team All-State selection by the Associated Press as a defensive lineman, he also earned first-team and Defensive Player of the Year honors on the 2002 AAA coaches All-State team. He received VHSCA All-Eastern Region and Newport News Daily Press All-Star Team honors as a defensive lineman as a senior. He was also a three-time Daily Press All-Star. Adibi was rated the 12th-best player in the Mid-Atlantic region and the top prospect in the state of Virginia by Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report. He was ranked the best player in Virginia by The Roanoke Times and rated the fourth-best linebacker in the nation and the premier player in Virginia by Super Prep. He added first-team All-Region accolades, along with picking up first-team AAA Coaches and Associated Press All-State recognition at defensive end as a junior. Adibi helped his team to back-to-back Group AAA championships, leading a Phantoms' defense that held opponents to fewer than five points a game. He finished with a team-best 13 1/2 sacks and 100-plus tackles, including 31 for loss as a senior, as he also rushed for 575 yards and 11 touchdowns at fullback. Adibi enrolled at Virginia Tech in 2003, spending the season on the scout team and was a member of the traveling squad, as his brother, Nathaniel, starred as a defensive end for the Hokies. Xavier Adibi got on the field for seven games as a reserve inside linebacker in 2004, missing six contests after he underwent surgery to repair a torn right biceps muscle, an injury suffered in the season opener vs. Southern California. He would finish the season by posting 25 tackles (21 solo), two sacks and 4 1/2 stops for losses. He also caused a fumble and intercepted a pass. In 2005, Adibi took over right inside linebacker chores. He finished fourth on the squad with 69 tackles (28 solo) in 13 games, also coming up with three sacks and seven stops behind the line of scrimmage. He deflected four passes and picked off two others, returning one 25 yards for a touchdown. As a junior, Adibi received All-Atlantic Coast Conference second-team honors. He ranked second on the squad with 82 tackles (29 solo) in 13 contests at right inside line-backer. He delivered three sacks with 6 1/2 stops for losses, five pressures and three forced fumbles. He recovered a fumble for a touchdown, gained 49 yards on three interception returns and broke up three passes. With Vince Hall injured for part of the season, Adibi handled the leadership role on the nation's fourth-ranked defensive unit. He led the team with a career-high 115 tackles (55 solo), adding three sacks and a team-high 12 stops for losses. He also caused a fumble, deflected five passes and intercepted two others, returning one for a touchdown. That performance earned him All-American and All-Atlantic Coast Conference first-team honors. Asked about his breakout 2007 season, Adibi responded, "Plays are happening very slowly for me. I can read much, much quicker before the snap. My run-pass read is much quicker than it's ever been. I am just getting off the ball and getting into my pass drops and getting to the line and getting into my gaps faster. I am feeling real free right now." "He's got great speed," said Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Fos

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).

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

One of the terms used to describe a defensive lineman is that the player is an efficient "run stuffer." Perhaps no one player has been more important to his team in shutting down the opposition's running game than Joseph "Red" Bryant. In the eight games that he appeared in for the Aggies in 2006, they allowed just 75.35 yards per game on the ground. In the five contests Bryant sat out due to a knee injury, TAMU was tagged for 229.2 yards per game rushing. Selected one of the squad captains as a redshirt freshman, Bryant has dominated vs. the run since he first start in College Station. In three seasons in the middle of the Aggies' defense, Bryant has made 83 plays vs. the run, holding the opposition to only 46 yards (0.55 yards per attempt). As a sophomore, he was a force, making 31 running plays that saw his opponent be held to an incredible minus-27 yards (minus-0.87-yard average). He followed that performance with 19 running plays for 12 yards (0.63-yard average) during his injury-shortened junior year. At Jasper High School, Bryant earned first-team 3A All-State honors from the Texas Sports Writers Association and was one of eight finalists for the Willie Ray Smith Award, presented to the top offensive and defensive players in Southeast Texas. The consensus Texas Top 100 recruit added District and Golden Triangle Defensive Most Valuable Player honors during his senior season. Bryant was the recipient of the 2001 District Defensive Player of the Year Award and was named the Southeast Texas Defensive Player of the Year by the Beaumont Enterprise. In addition to starring on the gridiron, Red also was a standout forward on the school's basketball team. Bryant enrolled at Texas A&M in 2003, competing on the scout team, earning that squad's Defensive Work MVP accolades. He was a "4x4" performer during the team's 2004 off-season conditioning program, tying the school record in the hang clean (385 pounds, but has since set a new mark at 407 pounds). He was so well-respected by his teammates that he was named to the Leadership Council and served as game captain in his first year with the varsity. In 2004, Bryant took over nose tackle duties, starting all 12 contests. He earned Freshman All-American and All-Big Twelve Conference honors from The Gridiron Report, as he totaled 34 tackles (nine solo) with an assisted sack, 3 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage and three quarterback pressures. He also deflected two passes and blocked a kick. In 33 plays vs. the run, the opposition managed just 61 yards (1.85 yards per carry) vs. Bryant. Bryant added All-Big Twelve Conference first-team and All-American third-team honors from The NFL Draft Report in 2005. He recorded just 30 tackles (eight solo) with three sacks, 8 1/2 stops for losses and a pressure, but also caused two fumbles and deflected a pass. It was his dominance vs. the run that stood out. In 31 running plays, he held the opposition to minus-27 yards (minus-0.87-yard average). What makes that figure even more impressive was the fact that the rest of the Aggies' defense struggled. TAMU allowed 139.18 yards per game on the ground and ranked 107th in the nation, giving up 443.82 yards in total offense per game. The team's permanent captain proved what a leadership was all about in 2006. He again manhandled the opposition in the trenches as a junior, making 19 plays vs. the run that netted the opposition just 12 yards (0.63-yard average). He made a valiant effort to play with an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his right knee, but he agreed to have surgery prior to the Texas game. In nine games, he had 19 tackles (seven solo), a sack, 2 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage, five pass deflections and a blocked kick. With Bryant sidelined, the team gave up 229.2 yards per game on the ground in their final five contests. However, thanks to his stellar play in the first nine games, the Aggies' defense showed marked improvement, allowing 322.62 yards per game in total

Choice was highly productive at Georgia Tech and was the centerpiece of the offense. Whether he can play that role in the NFL is unlikely. He lacks make-you-miss agility and breakaway speed. He is capable of gaining yards in chunks and would make an ideal complementary back.

BYU features one of the nation's better linebacking corps, and though Kelly Poppinga gets most of the national media attention, outside linebacker Bryan Kehl is the top NFL prospect of the unit. Kehl, 6-3, 232 pounds, has prototypical size for the outside linebacker position and his athleticism and instincts make him a natural playmaker. Kehl reads the action quickly and is athletic enough to put himself in position to make the play. He is at his best against the outside run and while in coverage -- where he can use his athleticism to make plays. He has good speed to beat the back to the outside and is relentless in pursuit. Kehl aggressively takes on blockers and utilizes both strength and slippery athleticism to defeat them. To improve, Kehl needs to continue to work on adding strength as an inside run defending presence and to incorporate different pass rush techniques when used on the blitz. A tireless worker on and off the field, Kehl is recognized as a team leader who does whatever it takes to win.

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.

Standout lower level prospect who was invited to the NFL Combine despite missing all but the first game of the 2007 season due to a knee injury. Shields will have to prove his knee has healed to have any shot at getting drafted, of course, but when healthy he has shown the combination of size, strength, burst, straight-line speed and reliable hands to surprise at the next level - just as the last Spider to earn an invitation to the Combine (veteran linebacker Shawn Barber) has.

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.

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

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

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.

Hills is a former tight end who overcame a devastating injury that threatened his career during his high school days to go on and start 24 of his final 42 games with the Longhorns. Unfortunately, his college career would also be cut short due to a broken fibula in his left leg. He had made a smooth transition to left tackle from tight end as a redshirt freshman and proved to be a capable replacement for former All-American Jonathan Scott. Hills was a three-year starter as a tight end at Alief Elsik High School, where he twice earned All-Greater Houston and All-District honors. A Parade All-America selection who added Class 5A third-team All-State recognition as a senior, he added second-team All-State accolades during his junior campaign. Hills averaged 17.9 yards on 28 receptions his final two seasons. As a senior, he caught 15 passes for 275 yards for a team that reached the 5A Division I semifinals, but sustained a serious left knee injury in the first half of that contest. He also totaled 13 receptions for 227 yards and a touchdown as a junior. Before giving up basketball prior to his freshman year, he had earned a spot on the U.S. Junior National team. Because of his knee injury, Hills was granted a medical hardship in 2003 at Texas, giving him time to recover from reconstructive surgery that repaired nerve damage in his knee. Doctors originally feared his playing days were over, but a grueling rehabilitation program saw Hills return to the field in 2004. As a redshirt freshman, Hills shifted to left tackle. He appeared in seven games on offense and special teams in 2004, competing for playing time. He was part of a line that cleared the way for Texas to rank second in the nation in rushing (299.2 ypg), seventh in total offense (464.4 ypg) and 18th in scoring (35.3 ppg). In 2005, Hills was a valuable reserve, seeing action in 11 games as Jonathan Scott's caddy at left tackle. That year, the line was responsible for the Longhorns ranking first in the nation in scoring offense (50.2 ppg), second in rushing offense (274.9 ypg) and third in total offense (512.1 ypg). With Scott gone to the National Football League, Hills stepped into the starting lineup in 2006. He was an All-Big 12 Conference honorable mention and earned a spot on ESPN's All-Mayday Team for being one of college football's "Toughest of the Tough," in addition to being named one of UT's Most Improved Offensive Players. With Hills clearing the way, Texas gained 162.6 rushing yards per game (34th NCAA), 391.5 total yards per game (23rd NCAA) and scored 35.9 points per game (seventh NCAA). In 2007, Hills earned Walter Camp All-American first-team and was named to the All-Big 12 Conference first-team squad. He started the first 11 games at left tackle before he broke a bone in his left leg. In the 11 games with Hills at left tackle, the team averaged 471.5 yards in total offense and 265.2 yards passing per game, while allowing an average of 1.9 sacks. With Hills on the sideline, the offense averaged 415.5 yards in total offense, 201.5 yards passing and three sacks per contest.

"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.

Hybrid fullback/tight ends/H-backs are underappreciated players in today's NFL offenses. A guy who can pick up blitzes, chip on defensive ends, cancel linebackers at the second level and move the chains (46 receptions, 394 yards, four touchdowns in '07) in the passing game is very valuable. Fine has the ability to be just that type of player, and will likely be selected earlier than most expect. He should also be a contributor on special teams coverage units as he did at Kansas.

Four-year starter who helped answer questions about his level of competition with a strong week of practice at right tackle in the East-West Shrine Game. Hale lacks flashy athleticism, making him a late-round prospect, but is a physical presence who plays with technique and determination.

Keglar started for the Boilermakers for four years before turning his attention on the NFL, but is primarily a reserve linebacker/special teams unit candidate in the pros. Keglar was not an overly productive college player, partially because of his role in the defense, but is solid enough a prospect to compete for a roster spot.

Questions about Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to taking Brian Brohm in the second round, likely leading to an open competition in training camp. Brohm was a mild surprise, but adding LSU QB Matt Flynn in the seventh round was slightly shocking. Receiver Jordy Nelson brings some talent to an already talented receiving corps, but that wasn't a need for the Packers. Jermichael Finley addresses the loss of Bubba Franks. Defensive back Patrick Lee brings some much needed youth to the position, with Charles Woodson and Al Harris in their 30s.