DRAFT TRACKER 2013

Waddle’s potential as a starting tackle is obvious, so even though the 2011 second-team All-Big 12 pick has some technique consistency to work out and will need to speed up his game and adjust to a pro-style offensive system, some team will invest a pick in the top half of the draft to help him his realize his bright future.

A tough-nosed, assignment-sure linebacker, Johnson is a strong run defender who has been overshadowed as a part-time starter on a star-studded Alabama defense. However, his unselfish play has been noticed, and he will likely be a mid-round selection for a 34 team in need of a middle linebacker.

This diminutive corner might struggle against bigger NFL receivers, keeping scouts from giving him early-round grades, but Lacy could be a potential starter in the slot at the next level because he will mix it up in run support and in coverage (two interceptions, 10 pass break-ups in 2011).

Hill doesn't possess the ideal size for a defensive tackle, but he does use his short build to his advantage in terms of low pad level and the obtaining of leverage. Hill flashes strong and active hands (like against Penn State's final 2012 opponent, Wisconsin, where he racked up 12 tackles and two sacks), but he is not always consistent with this effort. Hill is also not tremendously quick, and can be worn down when he sees too many snaps. For these reasons, Hill likely will have to work as a part of a rotation in the NFL.

The younger brother of three-year Tigers starting offensive lineman Ryan Madison was expected to be a tenacious blocker, but a switch to the defensive line after his redshirt year turned out to be the right move. He excelled playing with Aldon Smith in 2010 (11 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks), but took a step back in 2011 (8.5 TFL, 4.5 sack) because of a lingering shoulder injury. Expect a healthy Madison to harass quarterbacks and set the edge on the strong side again in 2012, earning at least late-round consideration next April.

Johnson played right guard in his first year at Tech as a junior college transfer. He moved out to tackle for his senior season, but is a better fit at guard. His size will likely have someone take a late-round flier on him.

This two-sport athlete has already been drafted three times by Major League Baseball teams. He’s came back from a torn left Achilles which took away some of his speed, but he still has good agility, physicality, and instincts, which means he'll likely hear his name called on draft day.

Adding on to the question of his health after missing the entire 2012 season, teams will likely project Faulk to the right side in the NFL. The LSU product's biggest issue is his lack of flexibility and ability to anchor to reset. Still, offensive linemen have won with poor technique in the past, so Faulk definitely has a chance. A mid to late third day selection appears to be in his future.

Tretter is an athletic offensive lineman, who will likely have to move to the inside at the next level. He plays the game with good balance and coordination. However there will be questions about his length, strength, and the competition he played. Tretter looks to be a nice long-term upside type.

The Ohio Defensive Player of the Year as a senior in high school took to his new role of fullback immediately, and has proven the blocking skills to stick at the position. However, his emergence at linebacker for the Buckeyes towards the end of his season will perhaps entice teams to use him there. Regardless, Boren will find at the very least be able to find a role in the NFL based upon his special-teams ability.

Taylor led the Hokies in tackles in 2010 (91, 15.5 for loss) and seemed on his way to another big year as a junior before a Lisfranc injury in his right foot stopped it after eight games. He recovered and played in 12 games as a senior, but did not appear to be the same player pre-injury. His thick upper body and fair speed and agility could see him at middle linebacker or strong side linebacker. He's a likely late-round selection.

This former quarterback has an elite combination of size and speed, but has only flashed those skills. Davis' combine performance could considerably boost his draft stock, even though he isn't overly refined as a receiver at this point. Even though he lacks in various aspects of the game, it's hard to imagine a team not taking a chance on him in the middle rounds.

Line managed to pass Eric Dickerson in all purpose yardage, and he tied him in rushing touchdowns, but he is not at all similar to Dickerson. Line doesn't possess the speed to be a starting running back, or the power to be a short-yardage, situational back. He does have some quickness and vision, but will need to prove that he is capable not only as a pass blocker, but as a run blocker, in order to obtain a roster spot as a hybrid player.

Johnson is the all-time WAC leader in sacks, and was honored by being named the 2012 WAC defensive player of the year. While his gaudy statistics are unlikely to duplicated in the NFL, Johnson still appears to be a valuable player. He's quick, and uses strong hands to free himself from blockers. While he's doesn't have the strength or overall athletic talent to be an every down player in the NFL, Johnson will still be a middle-round selection as a 3-4 outside linebacker.

The two-way high school star gave up toting the ball upon his arrival in Raleigh, and opposing offenses wish he hadn’t. The three-year starter is willing to attack ballcarriers in space or in the backfield and can make plays in the secondary, meaning he has a chance to start in the NFL as a mid-round pick.

The oldest of three sons playing with former Husker (and current offensive line coach) Barney Cotton, Ben might not be a burner, but displays good hands in limited opportunities (14 catches, 189 yards in 2011) and has the size and attitude to be an effective in-line blocker in the NFL. Teams looking for two-way tight ends will consider picking him up in the middle rounds.

The well-travelled twin brother of 2012 fifth-round pick of the Broncos, Malik, has succeeded wherever he’s played. He was the top junior college defender in California’s College of the Canyons (12 sacks), a two-time All-SWAC pick at Texas Southern (36 tackles for loss, 14 sacks in 2010-2011), and then moved on to a competitive Big Sky Conference to play at Portland State. Even though he might not be quite as big as Mali, his production and size/athleticism combination intrigue scouts too much for them to deny him at least a late-round selection.

Cunningham has seen a lot of playing time for South Carolina due to his skills as a run blocker and pass blocker, but he has been underutilized as a receiving threat. While he's far from a dynamic athlete, he shows enough skills to get open and make catches. He should stick in the NFL, if for nothing else besides his blocking.

Taylor has spent much of his time getting overshadowed by players like Melvin Ingram and Jadaveon Clowney. While Taylor is a physical specimen in his own right, he does not display proper quickness or pad level in order to be a consistent starting player in the NFL. However, Taylor is a player that isn't a stranger to hustle, and his length will make him an intriguing target to a team that thinks they can fix his pad level and pass rushing technqiue. Perhaps more intriguing however is the fact that his frame does not appear to be maxed out yet. It seems as if he can easily get to around 300 pounds, without sacrificing athleticism, which could interest 32 teams.

Highsmith scored 100-yard games two of his first four games as a freshman, and then rebounded from a less productive sophomore year to excel as a junior (51-726, five TD). He has the size and hands to be a solid mid-round selection as a possible number two or three receiver filling out a strong NFL receiving corps.

Though he’s taller than the average center prospect, Pocic’s intelligence, mobility and durability (26 straight starts in 2010-11) makes him a strong mid-round prospect for teams relying heavily on zone-blocking schemes.

An athletic cornerback whose height and length will be coveted by NFL defensive coordinators, Price elevated his game as a senior, proving that he could be a playmaker after missing five games the past two seasons with right knee issues. He will likely find himself selected in the third-to-fifth round range.

This eastern Washington native stayed in the Palouse to play for the Cougars, and has earned all-conference honors and started every game since his redshirt freshman season. Though not elite in his strength or athleticism, he has good short-area agility and fits the profile of many mid-to-late round 3-4 linebackers who use their instincts and toughness contribute heavily in the NFL.

Bostic is an absolute hammer in the middle of the Gators defense, especially against the run. He fights to take out blockers and to accomplish his assignment, but when he attacks with his shoulder Bostic fails to make a play on the football.. Even though he’s not as tall as some coaches would like, his production (he led the Gators with 94 tackles as a junior), onfield attitude and instincts for the ball make him a potential mid-round pick and gives him a chance to eventually earn a starting job at the next level.

Quickness isn’t among Otten’s greatest attributes, but the two time first-team All-WAC selection’s reliable hands, ability to tough out yards after the catch, and willingness to block could see him selected in the middle rounds.

Gratz first stepped into the limelight with a 46-yard interception return for a touchdown against Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones in the team’s 48-20 loss to the Sooners in the 2011 Orange Bowl. He followed that up with two consecutive second-team All-Big East seasons, using his NFL-quality size, strength, and agility to handle receivers on the outside. As there are some questions about his long speed and hips, a potential move to safety could be in his future. However, Gratz will still likely find himself selected in the middle to late rounds.

Rare triple kicking threat in college who will flourish as a kickoff specialist in the NFL and could grow into a solid field goal kicker or punter with experience.

Joined 2012 sixth-round pick Isaiah Frey in a solid duo for the Wolf Pack in 2011, but has made his own name by making plays throughout both with Frey in 2011, and without him in 2012. Wooten's play as a senior has mitigated concerns about his athletic ability, and he will likely find himself a mid-round selection.

Hyde is a bit of a 'tweener, but most teams will likely see him as a zone corner. Hyde has great size and instincts. He's a very good run defender, and plays physical. There will be questions about his hips and long speed that he will need to answer.

Looking at Russell “on the hoof”, as scouts say, he doesn’t look like the sort of stout nose tackle NFL teams would desire. But the All-American’s excellent production (45.5 tackles for loss, 20.5 sacks in his first three years), even at the FCS level, and ability to play two gaps with leverage, violent hands and agility makes him a potential NFL starter in the Kyle Love/Kyle Williams-mold.

Possesses the size, athletic skill set, and playmaking ability to become a starter at the next level. However, multiple suspensions for violating team rules might hurt his draft stock.

Sabino is versatile prospect capable of rushing the passer, handling tight ends, and holding the point as a strong side ‘backer and also works hard to plug holes when lined up inside. Sabino still has upside, but will need to prove he can play on special teams.

Mellette was lucky to play in a passing oriented offense, with the majority of his time under current Ball State head coach Pete Lembo. Prior to Mellete, Elon put forth a record breaking receiver in Terrell Hudgins, but Mellette's pro potential is much better. He won't win with long speed or athleticism, but Mellette has displayed the ability to make catches in traffic and win with technical route running. Expect a fourth- or fifth-round selection.

Bryant originally enrolled at Abeline Christian. He spent one season there, in which he did not play. After leaving the program, Bryant transferred to Cisco Junior College (Texas) before ultimately transferring to Eastern Central.

In his first season, as a defensive end for the Tigers, Bryant had 49 tackles (19 for loss), 13.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and blocked four kicks. Bryant won the Lone Star Conference North Defensive Lineman of the Year after picking up two LSC North Defensive Player of the Week honors and one LSC North Special Teams Player of the Week award in 2010. Bryant was a first team All-Great American Conference selection in 2011, after amassing 62 tackles (12.5 for loss), three sacks, and three blocked kicks. Bryant only played in eight games as a senior, as he was suspended after being arrested for selling marijuana to an undercover police officer. He still managed to total 54 tackles (17.5 for loss), 10.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and two blocked kicks.

Wood has plus size, but doesn't play like a bigger back. He has good vision, acceleration, and plays very fluidly. Post season workouts will be important for him, but he will likely be selected within the middle rounds.

Teams will be split on whether or not Foketi can remain at tackle, but they will be sure to agree on his physical skill set and upside. While his lack of experience will prevent him from going as high as his talent might indicate, he could be a well worthwhile risk late in the draft.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, Jackson earned second-team all-state as a senior in high school. Jackson was also named first-team all-district (Columbus Public) and all-city. He originally chose Illinois over Michigan, Minnesota and Oklahoma. In his first year at Illinois, Jackson took a redshirt.

Jackson left Illinois because of off-the-field issues, and eventually wound up at Glenville State. Jackson earned an All-WVIAC first-team selection in both 2010 and 2011. He was a major reason that the Pioneers threw for 5,120 yards and 40 touchdowns and ran for 3,395 yards and 31 scores in his first two seasons. In his final season, Jackson was a team captain and team MVP. For the third consecutive season, Jackson was an All WVIAC honoree. In addition to this, he Jackson was also named first team All-American by the AFCA Coaches and first team to the 2012 D2Footabll.com All-American Team.

This tall, athletic left tackle dominates many of the players he faces at the FCS level with his pure size and athleticism. Gaines also shows a bit of a nasty streak at times. While he is a project, a team will likely give him a shot late in the draft based on his upside.

Though Marshall didn’t get to show his full combination of power and speed in 2011 due to a nagging ankle injury, he still showed enough (1,050 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns) to portend a big senior season. A healthy 2012 season and the strong Combine expected by many will vault him up into the top half of the draft.

The nephew of 13-year NFL tight end Christian Fauria transferred from Notre Dame back home to southern California three years ago, but finally flashed the top-100 talent everyone knew he possessed in 2011 (39 catches, 481 yards, six touchdowns) by using his height, length and unexpected foot quickness to make plays around and over the top of defenders. He further demonstrated these qualities in 2012 en route to 12 receiving touchdowns. Fauria is an impressive red-zone threat due to his height and ability to box defenders out, but he is fairly unimpressive after the catch in the middle of the field. He also has more than his fair share of struggles as a run blocker.

Malone transferred from junior college for the 2011 season, earning All-American status in his first year with the Wildcats with seven interceptions. He’ll likely be a mid-to-late round prospect due to his average size, speed and strength, but that doesn’t mean he can’t contribute on an NFL defense as an always-valued reserve cornerback unafraid to mix it up with any opponent.

It’s fitting his last name is pronounced WATCH-ah-coo, because he’s fun to watch with the ball in his hands. Though he’s never been a number-one receiver with A&M, Nwachukwu reamains an intriguing mid-round pick as an inside/outside threat and potential kick returner.

Beauharnais won’t get the hype of teammate Khaseem Greene, but scouts he is a solid interior presence against the run, who can find ways of getting into the backfield. While Beauharnais didn't produce as well this year as he did as a senior, he could still find himself as a late round pick to a team needing a run stuffer.

Jefferson redshirted at quarterback in 2008, but showed so much potential learning the tight end before the 2009 season that he started 10 games that year. He still never saw a lot of throws his way and his long-legged frame makes him a strider and costs him leverage in blocking. Still, his upside could earn him a late-round selection.

Knott’s been a team leader and productive player alongside fellow linebacker A.J. Klein. Knott is athletic enough to play the Sam position or inside in a 3-4 scheme, as well as a special teams contributor at the next level. If his shoulder checks out medically, he should be a mid-round selection.

The next Miami cornerback with great speed to pique the interest of NFL scouts, McGee also presents enough size to stand up to NFL receivers on the outside. However, McGee had an up-and-down senior season, and was challenged and successfully beaten on numerous occasions. He was able to rebound his stock with a strong week of practices at the East-West Shrine Game.

The son of a high school coach and former ACC offensive lineman, Freeman plays with the intelligence and tenacity expected of a finalist for the Rimington Trophy given to the nation’s top center. He’ll need to prove he can stand up to stronger, quicker veteran defensive tackles before teams consider taking him in the top half of the draft – but I wouldn’t doubt his ability to earn a living in the pivot.

Though Rouse lacks the size typically of bell cow NFL backs, he has handled over 600 carries combined over the last two years, and has produced rushing totals of 1,549 and 1,490 yards, respectively. That toughness, along with his quickness and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, will make him an intriguing piece to add to an offense. While his game is quite similar to his most cited comparison, Darren Sproles, it does not appear as if Rouse matches Sproles' dynamism.

The next tall, strong lineman from BC flew onto scouts’ radar in 2012, showing off great strength in the run game. His footwork and balance in pass protection leave something to be desired, but his length and power should see him selected in the middle to late rounds.