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2009 draft 2008 draft 2007 draft 2006 draft

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2009 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	School	Jay's ranking	Jay's draft value
1	1	Matthew Stafford	RB	Georgia	#2 QB	Round 1
1	20	Brandon Pettigrew	TE	Oklahoma State	#2 TE	Round 2
Senior Bowl practice comment			Catches well, blocks well, big-hype, looks a cut below, but solid. Twice linebackers were able to cover him in one-on-one drills.
2	33	Louis Delmas	FS	Western Michigan	#1 FS	Round 1
Senior Bowl practice comment			Delmas looked great. He has a hitter's mentality and gets to the ballcarrier quickly whether coming up to play the run or coming up in coverage to ensure no YAC. While this safety gives some cushion in pass coverage, he is up very very quickly to make the tackle.
Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.			Delmas has a great combination of big time hitter, football instincts and big-play ability. He can come up and make a big hit, and can sit back in centerfield and make a key interception. Delmas is a first round talent who may slip to round two.
3	76	DeAndre Levy	OLB	Wisconsin	NR	7th/FA
3	82	Derrick Williams	WR	Penn State	#6 WR	Round 2
Senior Bowl practice comment			Best receiver on the field, great hands, good ball adjustments, good speed and quickness.
Senior Bowl Game			After a great week in practice, Williams didn't get many receiving opportunities in the game. He did make a good grab, however, on a low throw. However, Williams had a couple of nice kick returns and a good punt return. He did, however, fair catch a punt inside the 10 yard line.
Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.			Williams' value started to decline after the Combine where he ran a poor forty while battling the flu. Williams rebounded with a solid Pro Day but could still be drafted below where I have him valued at the top of round two. Williams starred during Senior Bowl practices where he was the best receiver on the field; displaying great hands, good ball adjustments, and good speed and quickness.
4	115	Sammie Lee Hill	DT	Stillman	#14 DT	Round 5
6	192	Aaron Brown	RB	TCU	NR	Late Round Value
7	228	Lydon Murtha	OT	Nebraska	#16 OT	Round 5
7	235	Zack Follett	OLB	California	#9 OLB	Round 3
Senior Bowl practice comment			Follett had very limited face time, but had some good moments in pass coverage in the one-on-one drills and made a nice play on a screen pass in the 11 on 11's.
Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.			Follett is a solid football player who will not be making Pro Bowls, but who can perform well in all aspects required of a SAM. Follett is a sure tackler, can cover and can rush the passer.
7	255	Dan Gronkowski	TE	Maryland	#16 TE	Round 5
FA	----	John Gill	DT	Northwestern	#12 DT	Round 5
FA	----	Antone Smith	RB	Florida State	#18 RB	Round 5

2009 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Lions had a solid albeit a bit schizo draft. They had some picks I loved, some where I would have gone another way but completely understood what they did, and threw in a head scratcher. They also added a couple of quality college street free agents.

DRAFT PICKS

While I had Sanchez rated above Stafford I cannot argue with the Lions selecting Stafford. When you draft a high first round quarterback you have to believe in him since if he fails it can set the franchise back for years. Detroit believes in Stafford. Stafford is the type of quarterback who can take a below-playoff-level team to the playoffs. He is also the type who could force a throw creating a turnover to lose a game his team is expecting to win in the playoffs. For a franchise like Detroit, who would like to make the playoffs a couple of times in the next 4 or 5 years, Stafford was the right choice. The way I would look at Sanchez and Stafford is: on a team that will not be in the Super Bowl hunt consistently, Stafford was the better choice. For a team that will be in the battle for a Super Bowl almost every year, Sanchez was the better choice.

Most NFL draft analysts had Pettigrew rated more highly than I did. He is a good receiver and a very good blocker. However, he lacks the speed to stretch the middle of the field and will not cause teams to alter their pass defense versus Calvin Johnson. For me, if a tight end is not a potential playmaker on offense, he is not a first round pick. This is not to say Pettigrew won't be a good NFL player. He will be. But don't believe some of the pre-draft hype comparing him to Jason Witten (a third round pick who ran a 4.62 forty versus Pettigrew's 4.80 forty). I give the Lions a pass at this spot because they were not alone in their love for Pettigrew and he may not have lasted much longer in the draft. However, I would have gone with defensive tackle Peria Jerry here and grabbed tight end Shawn Nelson later. He was available as late as round four for Detroit. In this scenario they would have had DT Perry and TE Nelson instead of DT Hill and TE Pettigrew. Only time will tell which scenario is better.

Selecting Delmas at the top of round two was a great move. The kid is a hitter. The kid has great football instincts. The kid can stop, change directions and get to the ball in a flash. The Lion fans will love him. In his own way he could be as big for the Lions' defense as Bob Sanders is for the Colts' defense.

If Levy went undrafted it would have been less of a head-scratcher for me than him going in round three. In fact, a player I liked a lot, middle linebacker Darry Beckwith surprisingly (at least to me) went undrafted and I wouldn't have batted an eye, and would have congratulated the Lions on a great pick if he went at this spot. To make matters even more confusing is that they drafted him as a middle linebacker which represents a position change for the kid. Since I gave the Lions a pass on Pettigrew (so no DT Jerry), I would have jumped at drafting defensive tackle Roy Miller here and gone after a middle linebacker later in the draft.

Derrick Williams was one of the more underrated receivers in this draft. He had the flu at the Combine, ran a poor forty, and everyone forgot how dominate the kid looked during Senior Bowl practices. Receivers often need a couple of years before they explode on the scene so Lion fans may not see the best he has to offer this year on offense. However, they will love him as a return man.

Hill is a small school defensive tackle who has good bulk and athleticism and will develop into a good run-stuffing defensive tackle. However, in both of my scenarios, I would have passed on him at this spot. In scenario #1 he is bypassed for TE Nelson (DT Jerry in round one). In the more likely scenario, DT Roy Miller was selected in round three, and I would have drafted big, strong, fast, middle linebacker Jasper Brinkley here.

Aaron Brown is okay, but not good enough to develop into a lead back, and not the quick, third-down back who is a good change-of-pace back for Smith. At this spot I would have rolled the dice and taken a shot with the troubled but highly talented running back Bernard Scott, who worst case is a great change-of-pace back, and best case a star in the league. Of course that assumes he keeps his house in order off the field, something he has not been able to do very well so far in his young life. Another interesting scenario would have been to grab the highly underrated Javon Ringer in round four and middle linebacker Beckwith here.

If Detroit was looking for a developmental tackle prospect they couldn't have done better than Murtha. Murtha is a big, athletic kid with quick feet and surprising speed for a kid his size. He has chance to develop into a top reserve or quality starter in time.

Follett was a seventh round steal. He is a SAM who will immediately be a special teams stud and down-the-line will be Peterson's heir apparent. Follett plays the run well, is a plus in pass coverage, and has some pass rush skills.

Athletically, Gronkowski is similar to Pettigrew. I had a fifth round grade on the kid. He slid to round seven because he hasn't put it all together on the field yet. But he has the raw ability and could be an ideal development squad candidate.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

Look for John Gill to make a strong push to make the Lions' roster. Worst case he will be a priority signing to their development squad. The kid has good strength and speed and flows quickly to ballcarriers.

I actually had Antone Smith rated higher than Aaron Brown. He is a short back (not small). He is very strong and very fast and could be an interesting option as a change-of-pace back. Worst case, Lions fans will enjoy watching him in early preseason games.

For chart below: red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
ARM-HAND relative to position, for ranges see ranking pages for 2009 draft

LAST NAME
at Combine

FIRST NAME

SCHOOL

HGT

WGT

ARM-
HAND

BENCH

SHORT

LONG

3 CONE

VERT

BROAD

Stafford

Matthew

Georgia

6'2.2"

225

XL-XL

4.84

1.65

2.75

4.47

7.06

30.5"

8'11"

Pettigrew

Brandon

Oklahoma State

6'5.3"

263

XL-XL

4.80

1.70

2.70

4.37

7.12

33"

9'10"

Delmas

Louis

Western Michigan

5'11.3"

202

M-L

4.49

1.53

2.59

4.17

6.67

37"

10'6"

Levy

DeAndre

Wisconsin

6'1.6"

236

M-M

9'11"

Williams

Derrick

Penn State

5'11.4"

194

S-L

4.37

1.49

2.59

4.21

6.96

9'7"

Hill

Sammie

Stillman

6'3.7"

329

L-M

5.11

1.72

2.96

4.97

7.89

28"

9'1"

Brown

Aaron

TCU

6'0.4"

200

4.49

1.62

2.61

4.26

7.22

40"

10'9"

Murtha

Lydon

Nebraska

6'7"

306

M-L

4.82

1.64

2.61

4.34

7.06

35"

9'2"

Follett

Zack

California

6'1.7"

236

S-M

4.70

1.59

2.71

7.31

37"

9'9"

Gronkowski

Dan

Maryland

6'5.4"

255

XL-XL

4.78

1.60

2.77

4.26

11.72

6.92

33"

10'2"

Gill

John

Northwestern

6'3.1"

302

4.90

1.70

2.77

4.40

7.09

31"

9'1"

Smith

Antone

Florida State

5'7.6"

191

4.33

1.48

2.51

4.32

6.90

32"

10'2"

2009 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY
Major need Need Upgrade possible Depth/possible need Not a need

QB	The one thing that has me head-scratching with the Lions is that with their poor on the field performance and lack of a top tier quarterback, Drew Stanton hasn't sniffed the role of future starting quarterback. Culpepper and Kitna are the veterans on the Lions roster. Neither will be the quarterback when (if?) the Lions change their losing ways. Orlovsky is an UFA.
RB	Smith came on as the year progressed but I still have doubts that he will ever grow into a feared starting running back. Johnson is an UFA and looks old. Calhoun has never developed into the change-of-pace back the Lions hoped he'd become. Best case, the Lions need a back to share the load with Smith. worst case they need a back to be their starter.
WR	The Lions' receiving corps is a one-man show, Calvin Johnson. The best after Johnson are McDonald, an UFA and Furrey. The Lions need to add two or three receivers in the offseason.
TE	Campbell, who was injured last year, is the best of a mediocre lot. This is another position that could use an upgrade in the offseason.
OL	Most of the Lions' line is in the okay but replaceable category. Cherilus is a building block on the right side, Backus had some good moments on the left but needs to cut down on penalties. Raiola and McCollum are decent centers. The team needs to upgrade its guards.
DL	Avril showed flashes of pass rush ability late in the season and could have a bigger role in 2009. White is okay, and worst case is a good #3 defensive end. The Lions need to address the defensive tackle position.
LB	Outside of Sims and Lewis (for the bench) the Lions linebackers are all replaceable. That includes UFA Lenon, Nece and Dizon. The Lions need to address linebacker in a big way.
DB	Bodden should rebound and give the Lions one solid starting corner. Bullocks had his moments, but needs to be moved to strong safety where his speed and hitting ability can be better utilized, especially since he is not adept at getting turnovers. Wilson, Pearson, and Alexander are young players who are worth looking at in camp. Fisher is another useful player, although he should be a backup not a starter.
ST	Hansen still has it, but is an UFA. Harris is a good punter. This team badly needs a return man with game-breaking ability.

2008 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School	Jay's ranking	Jay's draft value
1	17	Gosder Cherilus	OT	6'6.3"	314	Boston College	#5 OT	Round 1

Player who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than him.

Cherlius has a nasty streak. He looked very good during Senior Bowl week (dominated USC's Jackson in one-on-one drills I observed). He may drop a bit in the draft because he is a right tackle not a left tackle, but he will be a very good right tackle.

2	45	Jordon Dizon	OLB/ILB	5'11.7"	229	Colorado	#5 OLB	Round 3
3	64	Kevin Smith	RB	6'1.1"	217	C Florida	#12 RB	Round 4
3	87	Andre Fluellen	DT	6'1.7"	297	Florida State	#13 DT	Round 4
3	93	Cliff Avril	DE/OLB	6'2.7"	253	Purdue	#13 DE	Round 3
5	136	Kenneth Moore	WR	5'10.6"	195	Wake Forest		Late Round Value/Free Agent
5	146	Jerome Felton	FB	5'11.5"	241	Furman		Late Round Value
7	216	Landon Cohen	DT	6'2.7"	278	Ohio		Late Round Value/Free Agent
7	218	Caleb Campbell	SS/OLB	6'1.6"	229	Army		Late Round Value
FA		Carroll Madison	OG/OT	6'2.1"	315	Syracuse		Free Agent

C-

2008 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Lions' draft was erratic. There were a couple of good moves, but some questionable ones as well. For example, I believe Dizon is not strong enough or big enough to be effective in the middle. He will make tackles from that spot, but it will be too far from the line of scrimmage. He is a good football player, but needs to be an outside linebacker in a defense like Tampa Bay or Indianapolis. He is miscast in the middle for Detroit. For that reason, Detroit should have gone running back in round two (Ray Rice) and looked for a middle linebacker later in the draft. I'm sure Detroit wanted Forte in round two, but he was grabbed by Chicago just before they got on the clock. Smith is okay, but a step down from either Forte or Rice. To top off some missed opportunities and bad position decisions, Detroit did not have a very productive college street free agent signing period.

DRAFT PICKS

The Lions started the draft off very well. Cherilus is a tough kid, a mauler, and maybe the top pure right tackle in the draft. He will start from day one, provide a mean streak for their line, and make Pro Bowls before he is done.

Dizon in round two was a bit of a reach. However, as a middle linebacker he was a major reach. Dizon is a hustler who pursues plays sideline to sideline with his above-average speed, and excellent change-of-direction skills. The only thing that stops Dizon from getting in on plays are big bodies. He is not a player who is very effective taking on blocks, or taking on action run right at him. He needs to operate in space to chase down ballcarriers. His game is more like Derrick Brooks than Brain Urlachler, not that I expect him to reach those lofty heights. By the end of the year Buster Davis could be the Lions starting middle linebacker. And if Dizon doesn't start in the middle, there is no way he can challenge Sims to start on the weak side. As I said in the intro, my pick here would have been running back Ray Rice.

By the time the Lions were on the clock in round three, most of the top running backs were gone. However, while Smith will be okay, I think the Lions choose the wrong back. I liked Tashard Choice for Detroit more than Smith. However, if Detroit went Rice in round two, they could have drafted Connor or Wheeler at this spot, both of whom project as better 43 middle linebackers than Dizon.

Fluellen is a bit undersized, but has good speed and quickness for a man his size. He should make the roster and be a rotation player this year. He will never be a star, but should be a contributor.

Avril is the second player drafted by Detroit that I like a lot. He has excellent speed, quickness, and athleticism, and will play immediately in the nickel as a pass rusher. I can also see him adding a few pounds and developing into a starter, becoming the player the Lions hoped Kalimba Edwards would become.

Kenneth Moore is a slot receiver with good hands, decent speed and adequate quickness. In my opinion there were better receivers available at this spot than Moore. As a receiver with upside, I liked Paul Hubbard much more. As a slot receiver who could also serve as a solid return man, I liked Kevin Robinson more. For better roster depth I liked corners Bowman or Scandrick, defensive tackle Okam or Shirley, or tight end Kellen Davis or Barnidge more than a receiver at this spot (the grab a receiver in Cohen's spot in round seven).

Felton has weight-room strength and could develop into an excellent lead blocker.

Cohen has possibilities. He slid under the radar despite a good strength/speed/quickness ratio because he weighed only 278 at his Pro Day. However, he was supposedly up to the 290's when he visited the Lions so he was worth a shot late in the draft. He is an ideal practice squad candidate.

Campbell was a great story on day two of the draft and has a very good shot of making the Lions' roster. He will be a top special teams player and can backup at both outside linebacker and strong safety.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

The Lions did not sign any college street free agents on my priority list. Martin has a shot to play in the NFL because of his versatility. He started for three years at Syracuse and played multiple positions on their line.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
(blue college name indicates workout #'s include Pro Day numbers)

COMBINE
YES

FIRST NAME

SCHOOL

HEIGHT

WEIGHT

BENCH

SHORT

LONG

3 CONE

VERT

BROAD

Cherilus

Gosder

BOSTON COL

6'6.3"

314

5.00

1.72

2.89

4.71

7.60

23"

8'6"

Dizon

Jordan

COLORADO

5'11.7"

229

4.59

1.58

2.63

4.35

6.78

34.5"

9'1"

Smith

Kevin

C FLORIDA

6'1.7"

217

4.47

1.54

2.57

4.49

6.74

33.5"

10'0"

Fluellen

Andre

FL STATE

6'1.7"

297

5.00

1.68

2.95

4.45

7.78

28.5"

8'8"

Avril

Cliff

PURDUE

6'2.7"

253

4.51

1.51

2.58

4.31

6.91

36.5"

9'9"

Moore

Kenneth

WAKE FOREST

5'10.6"

195

4.47

1.53

2.61

4.30

7.09

28"

10'0"

Felton

Jerome

FURMAN

5'11.5"

241

4.75

1.56

2.64

4.46

7.20

32.5"

9'2"

Cohen

Landon

OHIO

6'2.7"

278

4.95

4.64

7.55

27"

8'6"

Campbell

Caleb

ARMY

6'1.6"

229

4.56

1.58

2.64

Madison

Carroll

SYRACUSE

6'2.1"

315

Cohen up in the 290's when visited Det before the draft

2008 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY

DET Major Need Need Upgrade Depth Need Not a Need

QB	The Lions' like Kitna more than I. He is an okay starter, but is replaceable. Stanton has potential. Orlovsky less so. If there is an upgrade over Kitna available, the Lions' will take it, but that may be hard to find.
RB	With the talent on hand, you wouldn't expect this rating to be brown. However, Jones keeps getting hurt making it difficult for the team to rely on him. Duckett has his moments, but appears to be better as a backup than a starter. Bell has game-breaking speed, but can't seem to find a way to win a regular job. The Lions may draft a runner in this deep draft for running backs.
WR	Williams, Johnson, McDonald and Furrey are as deep and talented top four receivers as there are in the league. Even fifth receiver Troy Walters can produce if called upon. Camp fodder is all that will be brought in, although one could force his way onto the roster.
TE	Campbell played well two years ago, and then got injured last year. He is an above average option, but if a stud can be secured it would upgrade the position. A player to push for a backup spot could also be added.
OL	Woody, who was solid when moved to right tackle, is a free agent. If he leaves, a replacement will be needed. Backus had an off year, in part due to playing through injuries, but will need to improve from last year's performance for the Lions' line play to improve.
DL	If the Lions can secure a good two-way end to play opposite White, that would improve this unit. Redding had a down year, but it shouldn't cost him his job. The question mark is the immensely talented Rogers who played up to his abilities when the team was winning, and trailed off down the stretch when the team took a nose dive. There is talk that the Lions will look to deal him this offseason. Tackle-insurance (or replacement) is needed.
LB	One, possibly two new starters are needed to pair with the human missile, Sims. Lennon needs to be replaced in the middle. He could land on the strong side. If he does, one starting linebacker is needed. If not, the Lions will need two. Alex Lewis is a player I thought would be a good NFL starter, but he may have to start over on another team to get that chance. Detroit hasn't shown faith in him. Buster Davis is a player I liked in the draft, and he could get a shot in the middle.
DB	Of the four players starting in the secondary at the end of the year, free safety Alexander may be the only one to start next year. The Lions' corners are average at best. Bullocks, a good young player coming back from injury, should take over strong safety for Kennedy.
ST	Hansen is a solid pro, but it may be time for the Lions to secure a young replacement. Cason is a good kick returner but he will have a battle to make the team. A dangerous punt returner could be added.

2007 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School	Jay's ranking	Jay's draft value
1	2	Johnson, Calvin	WR	6-4	237	Georgia Tech	#1 WR	Round 1
2	43	Stanton, Drew	QB	6-3	235	Michigan State	#3 QB	Round 2
2	58	Alama-Francis, Ikaika	DE	6-5	250	Hawaii	# 16 DE	Round 4
2	61	Alexander, Gerald	FS	6-0	210	Boise State		Late Round Value
4	105	Davis, A.J.	CB	5-10	192	North Carolina State		Late Round Value
4	117	Ramirez, Manuel	G	6-3	335	Texas Tech	#6 OG	Round 3
5	158	Baldwin, Johnny	OLB	6-1	232	Alabama A&M		Late Round Value
7	255	Robinson, Ramzee	CB	5-9	184	Alabama		Off My Board
FA		Moss, Terry	WR	5-9	189	Ball State		Off My Board
FA		Route, Israel	CB	5-9	186	Tulane		Off My Board
FA		Sylvan, Rudy	TE	6-3	282	Ohio		Late Round Value

C+

2007 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Lions had an interesting draft. In some spots I liked it a lot. In others, I was head-scratching. They also had a fairly uneventful college street free agent signing period.

Johnson was a pick the Lions had to make. If they could have traded down and grabbed Adams, that would have also been a good move. However, staying at two they did what they had to do. After all, it's not like the Lions have a top weapon to play opposite Roy Williams. Furrey had an exceptional year, but is best served as a third wideout. Johnson has excellent size, unusual speed for a man his size, and is a terrific athlete. He catches the well extremely well, and is a good character guy. I also liked the Stanton pick. He was clearly my third rated quarterback in the draft. He is a good athlete, has a NFL arm, and is an accurate passer. The Alama-Francis pick is where the Lions and I start to part ways. Yes, Alama-Francis is an excellent athlete with a big upside. Yes, he showed good pass rush skills at the Hula Bowl. No, he isn't a finished product yet and needs to improve his technique particularly against the run. No, he wasn't a sack machine in college, he only had 4 sacks his senior year. In my opinion, round two was too early for Alama-Francis. At defensive end, I liked Bazuin (who went 4 picks later) and Charles Johnson (who went in round three) better. Alexander was an even bigger reach than Alama-Francis. While the Lions desperately needed a backup safety, and Alexander will be a valuable backup because he can also play corner, round two was too early to grab a backup. I would have drafted MLB Buster Davis or CB Usama Young or CB Jonathan Wade at this spot and looked to add a player such as John Wendling later in the draft. Davis is a better player than workout warrior. However, he is a smallish corner who plays better outside than covering slot receivers. Still he has a good shot to play a role for the Lions this year because of their lack of depth at corner. My selection at cornerback at this spot in the draft would have been Fred Bennett. Ramirez could be a nice surprise. He is a very strong kid who will be a better pass blocker at guard than run blocker. He is strong, but not fluid. Baldwin is an underrated football player. He is a strong, fast, athletic linebacker who could be a long term backup for Ernie Sims and a top special teams performer. Robinson is a tweener corner. He has good skills but small for an outside corner, and lacks quickness to cover the smaller slot receivers.

As far as college street free agents, the Lions did not have a great signing period. Terry Moss is a short, fast receiver whose best shot to make the roster will be as a return man, and that will be tough with Drummond and others on hand. Route could push Robinson for a roster spot. He is also undersized, but can return kicks and is a bit quicker. Sylvan is a blocking tight end with excellent size and strength and decent hands. He could stick as a situational player.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

JOHNSON

CALVIN

GEORGIA TECH

6'5"

239

4.35

1.52

2.53

42.5"

11'7"

Johnson is the best receiver in the draft. He has great size, great hands, and great speed. He is also a terrific athlete and will be a a special player in the NFL.

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

STANTON

DREW

MICHIGAN ST

6'3.2"

226

4.73

1.56

2.71

4.41

6.77

30.5"

9'0"

PLAYER WHO COULD HAVE A BETTER NFL CAREER THAN PLAYERS SELECTED AHEAD OF HIM in the DRAFT

Ignore the buzz. At different times Smith, Kolb, Beck, Edwards, etc. were considered in the mix with Stanton as the #3 quarterback in the draft. In my opinion, he separated himself from the others during the post season (Senior Bowl, Combine). Stanton is the clear choice and will be a solid NFL player. He has good size and athleticism and can make all the throws. He will be better in the NFL than he was in college.

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

ALAMA-FRANCIS

IKAIKA

HAWAII

6'5"

280

Alama-Francis showed excellent pass rush skills at the Hula Bowl All Star Game. He is a good athlete who entered Hawaii on a basketball scholarship. He still is a bit raw, particularly when playing the run. And while he shows pass rush potential he had only 4 sacks his senior year. Alama-Francis is a very good developmental prospect.

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

ALEXANDER

GERALD

BOISE ST

FS/CB

6'0.3"

210

4.51

1.50

2.59

4.12

6.97

41"

10'4"

Alexander played both safety and corner in college. His skills are best as a corner, but his measurables are better as a safety. He could be a versatile backup for a NFL team.

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

DAVIS

A J

N CAR ST

5'10"

193

4.56

1.57

2.64

7.10

Davis plays better than he workouts but is still a smallish corner who plays better outside than covering slot receiver. He is a heady player who should find a role as a backup corner on a NFL roster.

COMBINE
YES

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3
CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

RAMIREZ

MANUEL

TEXAS TECH

6'4"

325

Ramirez is a very strong kid who will be valued by teams looking for a blocker for a power running game and passed over by teams that are looking for quick, athletic guards.

COMBINE
NO

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

BALDWIN

JOHNNY

ALABAMA A&M

OLB/ILB

6'1.3"

232

4.59

1.54

2.62

4.32

6.91

38"

10'4"

Baldwin is an excellent athlete with good speed and strength. In college he was an active linebacker who showed good range and was a sure tackler.

COMBINE
NO

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

ROBINSON

RAMZEE

ALABAMA

5'9.1"

188

Robinson is a tough, smart kid who should be a good special teams player. As an undersized corner, he may lack the quickness to match up against slot receivers.

COMBINE
NO

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

MOSS

TERRY

BALL STATE

WR/RET

5'8.5"

189

4.42

Moss' best shot to make a NFL roster will be as a return man. He does have good deep speed so could help as a receiver, but he is very short for a NFL receiver.

COMBINE
NO

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

ROUTE

ISRAEL

TULANE

CB/RET

5'9.2"

186

Route's best shot to make a NFL roster will be as a return man. He could also be a backup corner who covers slot receivers.

COMBINE
NO

COLLEGE

POS

HGHT

WGHT

BENCH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

VERTICAL
JUMP

BROAD
JUMP

SYLVAN

RUDY

OHIO

6'3.3"

282

4.77

1.62

2.74

4.78

34.5"

9'8"

Sylvan is a a strong, block first, catch later tight end. He does have decent hands.

2007 TEAM NEEDS PRIOR TO THE DRAFT and FREE AGENCY
major need need depth/possible need not a significant need

QB	Martz likes Kitna, McCown is a good athlete at QB.
RB	Jones is coming off a major knee injury. Calhoun was also hurt and may not be able to carry a full load.
WR	R Williams showed his stuff. Furrey played well but is more of #3 than a #2. Additional receivers are needed.
TE	Campbell is a better blocker than receiver. Pollard has declined. Fitzsimmons hasn't developed as hoped.
OL	The Lions' line had a bad year.
DL	The Lions need help at end and tackle.
LB	Sims is a find. Lewis and Bailey can compete for other outside spot. A stud in the middle is needed.
DB	Bullocks is a player. Kennedy still gets it done. If Bly leaves another CB will have to be added.
ST	The best unit on the team.

2006 DRAFT PICKS
Links go to write-ups at NFL.com

Detroit
Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School	Jay's ranking	Jay's draft value
1	9	Sims, Ernie	OLB	5-11	232	Florida State	# 2 OLB	Round 1
2	40	Bullocks, Daniel	SS	6-0	213	Nebraska	# 3 SS	Round 2
3	74	Calhoun, Brian	RB	5-9	202	Wisconsin	# 9 RB	Round 3
5	141	Scott, Jonathan	OT	6-6	314	Texas	# 6 OT	Round 2
6	179	McCann, Alton 'Dee'	CB	5-11	198	West Virginia	Late Round Value	> Round 4
7	217	Matua, Fred	G	6-2	307	Southern California	# 7 OG	Round 4
7	247	Cannon, Anthony	OLB	5-11	227	Tulane		> Round 4
	FA	Bernstein, Matt	FB	6-0	260	Wisconsin	Late Round Value	> Round 4
	FA	Davis, Frank	OG	6-3	326	South Florida	Late Round Value	> Round 4
	FA	Demps, Marcus	FS	6-0	192	San Diego State	# 7 FS	Round 4

2006 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Lions did not reach at any spot in the draft, and got great value on day two with Scott and Matua.

Sims was an excellent pick in round one. While I like Alex Lewis' potential, Sims represents an upgrade and will set the tone for entire Detroit defense. Sims has the mentality of a Rodney Harrison. He is a headhunter. One note of caution to Lion fans, early in his career Harrison missed a couple of games every year because of his aggressiveness. Expect that to happen to Sims as well. Following Sims up with Bullocks was terrific. Like Sims, Bullocks has excellent speed, and has excellent tackling skills. Bullocks is also a playmaker at safety, and has the speed to step out and cover outside receivers (as opposed to the quick slot receiver) when needed. Calhoun was an interesting pick in round three. After his poor forty time at the Combine I was beginning to get the feeling he was another Kevin Jones, a player I downgraded because of his poor workout numbers. Then Calhoun rebounded with a 4.38 forty at his Pro Day. I am still not completely sold on Jones, so Calhoun offers a good insurance policy, especially in a Martz-offense where running backs catch a lot of passes. Calhoun is a very good receiver. Scott fell in the draft because of workout numbers that were below expectations. While that was bad news to many (most?), to me that meant that Scott's inconsistent moments were not effort-related, but that he just got beat. Why is that good news? Scott knows how to play the position, so if he hits the weight room and is "coached up", I believe the Lions will have a starting tackle sooner than later. It also means he will be a quality reserve until that time because, while he may get beat, he will know his assignments, and use knowledge to be effective when called upon. Scott won't be a star, but will be a solid, reliable player. In fact, Scott could push the inconsistent Butler for his starting job at some point this year. McCann is a good player for a teams' bench. His best assets as a corner are his willingness to hit and his nose for the ball. That makes him a good candidate for special teams, and for dime back (or even nickel safety). McCann, however, is not a candidate to be a starting NFL cornerback. While his speed is not quite what is needed in a starting corner, it is his lack of quickness that concerns me the most. Matua was another good day two get for the Lions. Matua is on the small size for a guard, but has quick feet, uses good technique, and is strong. Anthony Cannon's value will be on special teams. He was a good cover linebacker in college, but may lack the speed to be effective in that role in the NFL.

The Lions' signed three college street free agents of note. The first is Calhoun's big, strong, bruising blocking fullback, Matt Bernstein. Bernstein is a one-dimensional player, but he is very good at what he does. And that is block. Bernstein is not much of a runner, and only caught 22 passes his entire college career. Frank Davis is a strong, physical guard who could find his way onto the Lions' practice squad. Demps is a kid I like. He is a tough kid, like his brother Will now of the NY Giants, who is a willing and good tackler, and a heady player. He has a good shot to make the Lions' roster since he also player corner in college, so will be a versatile sub, and should shine on special teams.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

VERTICAL
JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Sims

Florida State

5'11.2", 234

4.48

1.54

2.64

4.23

7.32

41"

10'5"

OLB/SS
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Sims is a bit undersized. His workout numbers will go a long way towards deciding where he is drafted. If he tests as the excellent athlete he appears to be he will go high in the draft. If not, he lacks the physical size to be a high pick.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Sims had an excellent workout and is now my second rated outside linebacker in the draft. He will be a sideline-to-sideline tackle hound in the NFL. He has Rodney Harrison's mentality, and may miss a game here and there each year to injury early in his career because of his aggressiveness, just like Harrison did.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

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JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Bullocks

Nebraska

6'0", 212

4.38

1.53

2.60

4.18

11.22

6.91

38"

10'4"

PLAYER WHO WILL PERFORM BETTER IN NFL THAN MANY DRAFTED BEFORE HIM

Early in the evaluation process Bullocks was looked at as a solid, but not spectacular strong safety. Then he showed excellent skills during Senior Bowl week, and blew everyone away with his Combine workout. Now you have a very productive player, who can hit, get turnovers, and is a great athlete. He will be a second round steal for some team.

SS/FS
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Bullocks had some nice moments during Senior Bowl practices.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

VERTICAL
JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Calhoun

Wisconsin

5'9.4", 202

4.38

1.59

2.70

4.04

11.03

6.83

31.5"

10'4"

Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Calhoun is an all-purpose-type back who may be a little too small for a big-time NFL workload. However, he is an exciting player with home-run potential and is an excellent receiver. Calhoun ran for over 1,600 yards while catching 53 balls for almost 600 yards as a senior.
Mike Mayock, NFL Network - Calhoun caught the ball extremely well at the Combine.
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - after running in the low 4.6s at the Combine, an unexpectedly high time, Calhoun rebounded with a more expected 4.38 at his Pro Day.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

VERTICAL
JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Scott

Texas

6'6.6", 315

5.28

1.85

3.12

4.87

7.74

24.5"

8'5"

OT
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Scott is a safer bet than some other tackles in the draft, but does not have as much upside (may have to stay on the right side). He will be a good NFL player for a long time.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

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JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

McCann

West Virginia

5'11.2", 197

4.53

1.57

2.64

4.39

7.36

40.5"

10'2"

CB
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - McCann is the classic backup cornerback. He is strong for his size and likes to hit which will make him an asset on special teams, and he has a nose for the ball so he could be a good dime back. McCann, however, lacks the speed and, more importantly, quickness to be a starting corner, especially o teams that specialize in man coverage.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

VERTICAL
JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Matua

USC

6'2.3", 301

5.06

4.79

7.87

30"

7'9"

OG
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Matua is not the biggest guard in the draft, but he uses good technique and has quick feet and good size. Matua is not every teams' cup of tea because of his size, however, in the right system could develop into a starting guard.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

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JUMP

LONG
JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Cannon

Tulane

5'11", 227

4.75

OLB - NOT AT COMBINE
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Cannon is an undersized WILL who may not have the speed to transition his game to the next level.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

LONG
SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

VERTICAL
JUMP

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JUMP

WONDER
LIC

Bernstein

Wisconsin

6'0.3", 260

4.80

1.72

2.91

4.37

12.26

7.25

33.5"

9'2"

Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Bernstein is a blocking fullback. He was not asked to run or catch much at Wisconsin.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
SHUTTLE

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SHUTTLE

3 CONE

BENCH

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WONDER
LIC

Davis, F

South Florida

6'3.2", 326

4.72

8.01

29.5"

7'9"

OG -NOT AT COMBINE
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Davis is a strong, physical player who could find his way onto a teams' practice squad.

PLAYER

COLLEGE

HGT-WGHT

FORTY
DASH

10
DASH

20
DASH

SHORT
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WONDER
LIC

Demps

San Diego St

5'11.6", 192

4.61

1.59

2.76

4.09

11.10

6.91

34"

9'9"

FS
Jay Goldberg, 900FootballLinks.NET - Demps played a lot of corner in college, but projects to free safety in the NFL because he is more quick than fast, has good strength for a corner, is a smart kid, and will mix it up.

2006 TEAM NEEDS
prior to free agency

DET

QB	Harrington, Orlovsky, and UFA Garcia are as weak a quarterbacking unit as there is in the NFL. Harrington could still come through, but his ceiling is obviously much lower than hoped for when drafted in the first round. Help is needed here, desperately. Did anyone say Patrick Ramsey? I would love to see his big arm throwing to the Detroit receivers.
RB	I was not surprised to see a fall off from Jones. He did not show good speed or exceptional quickness during his draft workouts. After watching his tendencies on film, he is a player defenses can catch up to. Pinner has not developed as expected, and Bryson is an UFA. A franchise back is needed to move Jones to the change-of-pace role.
WR	I expect the Lions to cut ties with Rogers. If they don't then Roy Williams, Mike Williams, Vines, and Rogers is a good first four. However, Johnson, Edwards, and Drummond are UFAs so either way, depth is needed.
TE	Pollard is solid, albeit unspectacular starting tight end. He is a good compliment, however, to the Lions' starting wide receivers. Fitzsimmons is a RFA who will probably be back. If not a quality backup is needed.
OL	Individually the Lions' line is better than it plays as a unit. Whether changes in scheme or players, changes will be coming in the offseason for the Lions' line. The Lions' starting left side, Backus and Kosier, are UFAs. Look for the Lions to bring in a couple of players with starting potential in the offseason.
DL	Redding is a RFA, Edwards an UFA. Hall is okay, Swancutt could replace Edwards as a pass rush specialist. DeVries is a good rotation player. A defensive end who could get after the quarterback would help. The starting defensive tackles, Rogers and Wilkenson are very good. Cody and Bell provide good depth.
LB	Holmes was playing very well before being injured. He is now an UFA. Lehman could move to the middle if Holmes doesn't return. Davis is a RFA who may be allowed to leave because the young Lion linebackers may be ready. Bailey has been ready, but gets hurt too often. He has skills. Lewis is a player I like who could be ready to contribute as a starter. The Lions need to add a linebacker to the mix, either inside if Holmes leaves, or outside if Davis leaves.
DB	Bly is set at one corner. Bryant is replaceable at the other. McQuarters is an UFA. Wilson and Smith are young, both may peak as nickel corners. A starting corner to play opposite Bly is needed. At safety, Holt is a RFA who may get some bites. Kennedy hits better than he plays. Walker, Fox and McGarrahan are UFAs. McGraw can't stay healthy. A safety needs to be added as well.
ST	Harris is top drawer, Hansen not far behind. However, Drummond is a an UFA and if he leaves will create a big hole. Drummond is an excellent return man.

2005 C OLLEGE DRAFT

Detroit - links below go to NFL.com reports							Jaybird	Jaybird
Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School	Ranking	Value Board
1	10	Williams, Mike	WR	6-5	229	Southern California	# 3 WR	Round 1
2	37	Cody, Shaun	DT	6-4	292	Southern California	# 3 DT	Round 2
3	72	Wilson, Stanley	CB	5-11	189	Stanford	# 10 CB	Round 2
5	145	Orlovsky, Dan	QB	6-4	238	Connecticut	Late Round Value	> Round 4
6	184	Swancutt, Bill	DE	6-4	264	Oregon State	# 9 DE	Round 3
6	206	Goddard, Jonathan	DE	6-0	242	Marshall	Late Round Value	> Round 4
FA		Mathews, Will	FB	6-1	248	Texas	Late Round Value	> Round 4
FA		Randle, Jason	TE	6-6	282	Michigan Sate	Late Round Value	> Round 4
FA		Savoy, Steve	WR	5-11	191	Utah		> Round 4

2005 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

The Lions did not reach at any spot in the draft, and got excellent value with Swancutt on day two.

The Lions had a solid draft. Mike Williams in round one was a good choice even given that it was the third time in three years they went with a receiver in round one. The Lions were in the rare position where they had no pressing need that had to be addressed in round one. If both Mike Williams and Rogers prove to be effective playing opposite Roy Williams, the Lions can let Rogers walk when his contract ends since he will be looking for a big paycheck, and has injury concerns, still have two dominate receivers, and use the cap savings at another position. While the Lions had no pressing need in round one, they did need to come out of the draft with a rotation player for defensive tackle. Cody fits that need. In round three the Lions' drafted Stanley Wilson, who has the potential to be a top corner in the league. I liked Wilson's upside enough to have rated him as a second round value. He has speed, quickness, and a nose for the ball. Orlovsky is a player some liked more than me. If I was going to criticize Mooch for anything since he arrived at Detroit, it would be his quarterback evaluations. Orlovosky has good size, but lacks the mobitity needed today for NFL quarterbacks to succeed. Swancutt was a steal in round six. I had a third round grade on this hustler, who has enough size to play the run, and has good pass rushing potential. Swancutt will be the surprise of this draft for the Lions' when they look back at it three or four years down the line. Goodard reminds me of the Colts' Robert Mathis. His value will be limited to a pass rusher in the nickel.

The Lions' had an uneventful college street free agency signing period. Their best get looks like fullback Will Mathews, who could be Schlesinger's backup this year, and his eventual replacement. Jason Randle, a tight end, is also worth mentioning because of his size (6'6", 282 pounds) and the fact that he has shown some ability to catch the ball. However, he needs to be more consistent. The last player I will mention is Steve Savoy. I am not mentioning him because I think he will stick, but because it will be fun for the Lion fans to see how well Savoy performs, and use that as an indicator for the top pick in the draft QB Alex Smith (SF). I downgraded Smith below Aaron Rodgers, and have questions about him because Savoy (and Paris Warren) dominated as his receivers in college, but have only pedestrian speed and below-average athletic ability. If Savoy shows something special, and rises above his base skills to make plays against NFL-caliber talent (not players who will be cut), then maybe I'm wrong about Smith. However, I have a sneaky suspicion that if Savoy dominated, then Smith's college production was helped tremendously by the lack of quality corners, and possibly, the lack of quality pass-rushers that his team faced. Let's see.

RED NUMBERS BELOW - among best at position
Long shuttle numbers (where available) in blue, top performers to be determined later

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Williams	WR	4.58	1.66	4.23		6.98		38.5"	10'3"	20

Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times reports: former USC WR Mike Williams may have moved into the top-five of the upcoming NFL Draft after his recent personal workout. While Williams did not improve on his time in the 40-yard dash - times of 4.58 and 4.59 - he showed great hands, body control and was quick getting in and out of his breaks while running routes.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports: Williams was described as having great hands and excellent body control, and was good getting in and out of his breaks. He was compared to Kellen Winslow, Sr. at his Pro Day workout.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: My third rated receiver, but the first or second one that will be, and has to be, drafted. With his size he has a chance to be special like Moss or Rice. However, he, most likely, will be a Burress (which ain't half-bad in its own right).
Associated Press reports: Baltimore Raven's head coach Brian Billick noted it is difficult for teams to evaluate WR Mike Williams because he did not play football during the 2004 season. "You have to go back to the tapes and that has not changed. You take what is on film and now it is a year removed. Even with all that, I imagine he'll be a first-rounder," Billick said at the NFL Combine. He went on to add that Williams may be one of those players "you take that little bit of a leap with" if your team is in dire need of a playmaker at the receiver position.
FROM 2004 DRAFT WRITE-UP
Vic Ketchman of jaguars.com reports: At 6-3, 230, Williams is a bull of a pass-catcher. “He's good, but he's overrated,” Pauline (jaguars.com draft expert) said. “A lot of natural skill – goes up against three defenders and comes down with the ball – but, that said, he's not quick, looks heavy-legged and his routes are not good. He's had two great quarterbacks. Some people are saying he's going to be a top-five pick. Unless he has a great workout, I don't see it. He doesn't have a lot of speed to his game. He's a long-loper.”
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: A source at South Florida has passed along a little more information on today's workout by USC sophomore WR Mike Williams. Williams reportedly measured in at just under 6-5 and 229 pounds, his usual playing weight at Southern Cal. Several teams actually had Williams timed in the 4.45-4.50 range with the wind on his first 40; he then timed just over 4.6 on the second, this one into the wind. Williams also reportedly caught the ball very well.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Cody	DT/DE	5.03		4.54		7.70	34	30"	8'1"	29

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Cody is either a tackle in a 4-3 defense, or an end in a 3-4 defense. He has the size and skills to play the run well, and enough ability to get his share of sacks.
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: Southern Cal DT Shaun Cody has perhaps the best array of pass rush moves in Mobile; indeed, Cody always seems to be using one rush to set up the next.
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: DT Shaun Cody was impressive, beating his man cleanly in a couple of one-on-one situations for sacks (Tuesday).
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: USC DT Shaun Cody got excellent penetration and messed up plays in the 11-on-11 series that finished up the physical part of the session at the Senior Bowl practice on Monday.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Wilson	CB	4.34	1.51	4.07	11.08	6.75	14	38"	9'10"	31

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Wilson is a quick, fast corner with a nose for the ball. He was a new starter this past year, so he will need time to develop, but he has a tremendous upside.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Orlovsky	QB	4.95		4.43		7.33		29.5"	8'11"	30

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Some like Orlovsky more than me. I think he has a chance to be a starter down the line, but I don't see stardom in his future.
Allen Trieu of NFLDraftShowcase.com reports: Orlovsky really could become a top notch NFL QB. He has a great package of physical tools and while he needs more time than some of the top QBs in this class, he also has as big an upside as any other quarterback. However, the team who drafts him must be patient with him and not force him into the fire too quickly.
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: UConn's Dan Orlovsky was not particularly accurate in either facet (individual drills and 11 on 11 drills) of the practice on Wednesday at Senior Bowl practice.
Colin Lindsay of GBNReport.com reports: UConn's Dan Orlovsky, appears to have the strongest arm of the 3 north pivots and showed nice velocity on the intermediate routes, but tended to lob the underneath stuff; Orlovsky also had something of a deliberate release. And while its something that can be corrected, Orlovsky also fumbled a couple of snaps in the full 11-on-11 drills
InsideThe League.com reports: Connecticut QB Dan Orlovsky put a shaky first day behind him and showed improved accuracy and strength on his throws during the second day of North team workouts, impressing scouts at the Senior Bowl.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Swancutt	DE	5.05	1.70	4.24		7.36	23	34"	9'5"	32

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Swancutt doesn't have great measurables, but he is a football player. He will be a solid NFL player who will hold up fine against the run, and get his share of sacks.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Swancutt had a great Senior Bowl game. He was constantly getting pressure on the quarterback. In fact, he looked better than any of the more highly-heralded defensive linemen who played in the game. This is player to watch. One of my top six players in the game.
Zac Jackson, of ClevelandBrowns.com, reports: Oregon State DL Bill Swancutt showed an impressive combination of size and speed during Monday's, Jan. 24, Senior Bowl practice in Mobile, Alabama.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Goodard	DE/OLB	4.71	1.61	4.19		7.49	27	35"	8'11"	19

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Look in the dictionary for the term tweener, and you'll see Goodard's picture. He is too small to be anything more than a nickel-rusher at end, and while he has decent speed and quickness, he lacks the athletic ability to be anything more than a nickel-rusher as an outside linebacker as well.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Goddard, who may need to move to outside linebacker, or add weight to make it in the NFL, showed good pass rush ability at the Gridiron Classic game.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Mathews	FB	4.79					18	35"	10'6"	19

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Mathews has a good chance to make an NFL roster. He blocks well, and can catch the ball.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Mathews displayed the skills needed to be an effective fullback in the NFL during the Senior Bowl game.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Randle	TE	4.77		4.30	12.07	7.25	20	36"	9'4"

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Randle is 6'6", 282 pounds. That alone is worth a team giving him a shot. Randle has shown flashes of talent, but needs to be more consistent.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Randle made an excellent catch at the Gridiron Classic game showing superb concentration.

PLAYER	POS	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP	WONDER- LIC
Randle	TE	4.58	1.63	4.27	11.71	7.31		32"	9'1"	13

Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Savoy was first pick QB Smith's favorite receiver in college. His pedestrian times and below-average athleticism, coupled with similarly disappointing numbers from Smith's other receiver (Paris Warren), was the major factor why I had Rodgers rated higher than Smith in my QB rankings. If Smith played in a league where these two receivers could dominate, how much time did he have to throw, and how good were the corners in the league? Savoy will have a difficult time making an NFL roster despite his college production.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Savoy disappointed me with his forty time, his short shuttle and his three-cone times, indicating he may not be able to bring his skills to the next level.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Savoy is a player who could surprise, he is fast, quick and tough.

2005 TEAM NEEDS PRIOR TO FREE AGENCY AND THE DRAFT

Jay Goldberg of 90FootballLinks.NET reports:
major need need position possible need, depth needed no real need
Key UFA: McMahon QB, Raiola C, Alexander TE, Rogers DT, McDougal OT, Harris P
Key RFA: Drummond WR, Rogers OT (7th), Goodman CB (3rd), Cash CB (6th)
NOTE - RFA COMPENSATION AT MINIMUM TENDER

QB: Harrington, Harrington, Harrington. Who knows. This is the year he either steps up consistently, or is labeled a first round bust. McMahon will walk and the Lions will bring in a veteran who can start if Harrington doesn't progress. Mirer is also an UFA, so the Lions may also take a shot with a young quarterback late in the draft.
RB: Jones was much better than I projected. Pinner and Bryson are solid backups. The Lions look set here.
WR: If Rogers comes back healthy, he will pair with Williams to form the best young tandem in the league. Hakim had a good year and is a solid three. Streets is an UFA who the Lions may let walk because Kircus is another young player with potential.
TE: TE: Alexander is a UFA who is a serviceable tight end. Fitzsimmons is a solid backup. However, think what adding a big-time tight end would do to this offense!
OL: OL: The Lion's offensive line is solid. However, Raiola is an UFA who will need to be resigned or replaced and tackles McDougal (U) and Rogers (R) could leave in free agency, and left guard could be upgraded.
DL: DL: Three of the Lions' top four defensive tackles are free agents, including their best one, Rogers. Hall has developed into a very good end, surpassing Edwards a high draft pick a couple of years ago. Redding is solid but not a dominate pass rusher. The Lions may need tackle depth if they can't bring back all their tackles and a situational pass rusher if Edwards doesn't take a big step forward in 2005.
LB: The Lions have some good young talent at linebacker. Lehman, Bailey and Lewis all have bright futures in the league. Add in Davis and Holmes and the Lions are set at linebacker.
DB: DB: Bly is a very good corner, but better at making plays than in man-to-man coverage. Bryant is an okay option opposite him. However, the Lions top two backup corners Cash and Goodman are RFAs. At safety, the Lions have a huge hole at strong safety where an upgrade over UFA Walker is needed, and Marion is aging. The Lions have a future starter on their roster for Marion (Holt), but need to draft a strong safety.
ST: Hanson remains a steady kicker with range, Harris does not have a big leg but is effective placing kicks inside the twenty. He is an UFA and it is 50-50 if the Lions sign him or go in another direction. Drummond is as good as it gets as in the return game.

2004 COLLEGE DRAFT

Detroit
Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School
1	7	Williams, Roy	WR	6-2	212	Texas
1	30	Jones, Kevin	RB	5-11	221	Virginia Tech
2	37	Lehman, Teddy	OLB	6-1	238	Oklahoma
3	73	Smith, Keith	CB	5-11	192	McNeese State
5	140	Lewis, Alex	ILB	5-11	237	Wisconsin
6	172	Butler, Kelly	OT	6-7	334	Purdue

A-

2004 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

The Lions keep having good drafts. Now it's time to see the difference on the field. Look for the Lions to be more competitive this year than in the recent past. Roy Williams was my top rated receiver in the draft, ahead of Larry Fitzgerald. He will also be a better NFL receiver than the Lions' first round pick last year, Charles Rogers, and that's saying something since I forecasted pro bowls in his future. Williams has size, is fast, a playmaker and has a presence on the field. The Lions' maneuvering for Kevin Jones was the difference between a grade of "A" and their "A-". I have a second round grade on Jones. I had some questions on him prior to his poor forty times. While he has decent strength, he is not a running back that breaks a lot of tackles. That was a concern. After he surprised and ran only pedestrian forty times, and showed good, but not great quickness, the combination was too risky for me to label him a first round pick. In addition, I believe he would have been available when the Lions selected in round two, without them having to trade up to get him late in round one. Lehman was a solid second round selection. He should push, and eventually beat out James Davis for a starting job. Lehman has good speed and strength and is a big-time hitter. He could become the Lions best linebacker. Keith Smith is a good developmental corner. He has good athletic ability and good cornerback instincts. In terms of starting (or even nickel corner), he will need time to develop, but will be a good special teams player and push for time in dime defenses this year. Smith was a solid pick for the future. Alex Lewis was a steal. I love this kid as a football player. I had him with a third round grade. While, I know that was higher than most, I believe my ranking will be justified in a few years. Long term, look for the Lions to start Lewis and Bailey on the outside, and move Lehman to the middle. This year, Lewis, who has defensive back speed and linebacker strength, should be a special teams terror, and possibly, a nickel linebacker who can get to the quarterback. A great pick for the Lions. Kelly Butler was also great value. I had a late third, early fourth round grade on Butler. A big man, Butler is an athletic tackle with upside. All-in-all, every player drafted by the Lions should be a significant contributor to the long-term success of the team, with the possible exception of Kevin Jones, who will need to play faster than he times, and show more toughness to emerge as the answer at halfback. As far as college street free agents go, some worth watching include: Matt Brandt, a former quarterback turned tight end who shows a good feel for the passing game and will get better with experience; OT Branden Hall from Troy State who played well in the Blue-Gray all star game; and Ahmaad Childress, a defensive tackle, who is a monster of a man and could be one of those immovable run stuffers, or could be a wash-out.

PLAYER/ TEAM NEWS PRIOR TO DRAFT

PLAYER	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Williams	6-2½, 211	4.37	-	3.97	-	6.75	-	39½"	11-0

Williams
Texas

#1 ranked WR by Jaybird

Allen Treiu of nfldraft.fasthost.tv reports: Roy Williams measured at 6’2 1/2, 212, a little shorter and a little lighter than expected.
As many as eight wide receivers could be selected in the first round, and Vic Ketchman of jaguars.com reports: Texas' Roy Williams is at the head of that group in raw talent. The 6-2, 212-pound Williams can be a dominant player. “When he's on top of his game, he's a game-impacting and game-controlling receiver. Look at the Cotton Bowl in his junior year against LSU and he was an unstoppable force,” Pauline (jaguars.com draft expert) said. “Unfortunately, he doesn't always play that way. He has an attitude like he can take it or leave it. He has as much upside as anybody in this draft but doesn't always play to it.”
Brian DeLucia of foxsports.com reports: One player whose stock has slipped among some key decision-makers is Texas' Roy Williams. Many teams are looking closely at tests done on his knees and ankles to determine their stability and whether he can remain durable over the long term.

PLAYER	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	20 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
K Jones	5-11 5/8, 224	4.55	-	-	4.11	6.90	18	37"	10-5

K Jones
Virginia Tech

#3 ranked RB by Jaybird

Matt Gambill of AllProScouting reports: Kevin Jones is a stud. Could be the first back taken.
Pete Fiutak / CollegeFootballNews.com posted at foxsports.com reports: Projected: late 1st round, early second round. Good or bad move to come out early? Jones has a few issues, but he's a blazer with workhorse ability. He's going to wow the scouts at the combines.
Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.com reports: Observation from a NFL scout at the combine: "Right now, the majority of our scouts feel like Kevin Jones (of Virginia Tech) is the best back in the draft. But there's my hangup with him: You see him break a lot of long runs on tape, but you don't see him break a lot of tackles, you know? He's got some 'long strider' to him, and I'd like to see him running in some tight spots, where he's got to chop his steps more and maybe make a hole for himself once in a while."
Pat Kirwan of NFL.com reports: Both NFL men I talked to liked RB Kevin Jones from Virginia Tech as the top back this week, which is a shift from the pre-combine thinking when he was second or third among ball carriers.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports: Jones' time was slower than expected, but he did not get out of his start well. More than anything, he impressed people with his ability to catch the football. He was really good at running routes and catching the ball. On March 25, Jones worked out again with better results.
Vic Ketchman, of jaguars.com reports: Jones' draft stock fell recently when he timed a surprisingly-slow 4.6 in the 40-yard dash. It was a particularly damaging workout for Jones, whose strength in the draft is considered to be his breakaway ability. In college, Jones was billed to be a combination of speed and power. He had a monster game late last season against Pitt, breaking off long run after long run, and used his power to flatten Miami safety Sean Taylor in the Hokies' rousing win. “He can be electrifying in making defenders miss; great burst of speed. He timed poorly in the pro day, but he plays much faster,” Pauline said. Jones' pro-day workout was aided, however, by an impressive pass-catching performance. Heading into the final month before the draft, Jones is sort of a wild-card player. If he submits himself to another workout and improves his 40 time, he could shoot up. But if he runs bad again, he'd probably cement himself as a second-half-of-the-first-round pick. Pauline (Jaguars.com draft expert) believes Jones will be immediate starters for whatever teams draft them.
wingedhelmet.com reports: On Thursday, we were posting real-time updates regarding the subpar workout of Virginia Tech running back Kevin Jones. In the aftermath of the session, we're hearing that Jones' biggest problem was his poor start to the 40-yard dash. Per a league source, Jones was coming out of his stance too upright. Another source tells us that some scouts believed that Jones' father, Tom, has worked him out too hard, and that his father is too involved in the process. "It's time for daddy dearest to go home," said one league insider. "Get a real job and leave the kid alone. The old man acts like he is living the dream, but when the kid went bad he was going around mother f--king him . . . . Shut the fu-- up and go home." Despite Jones poor performance in the objective running drills, we hear that Jones did much better in the running back drills, and that Lions running backs coach Tom Rathman put him through the paces, much like he did last week with Oregon State running back Steven Jackson.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Lehman	O	6-1½, 237	4.53	4.20	-	6.25	26	34½"	9-5

Lehman
Oklahoma

#5 ranked OLB by Jaybird

Drew Boylhart of www.thehuddlereport.com reports: Teddy Lehman - Oklahoma - He was back to his old form (at senior Bowl). I think a first rounder.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports: Oklahoma's Teddy Lehman (240 pounds), ran under 4.6 at the combine.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports: Lehman did not lift during his on campus workout, but did have an impressive workout.
NFLFans.com reports: Teddy is a throw-back type of LB prospect defensively minded fans love to watch. He is a mean nasty guy who can lay you out. He has the range to go sideline-to-sideline and will make many highlight films. His main weakness is in pass coverage, which he should be able to refine at the next level.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
K Smith	CB	5-11¾, 200	4.50	4.43	-	7.81	12	36½"	9-8

Smith
McNeese St

#12 ranked CB by Jaybird

D. J. Boyer of Football.com reports: Keith Smith represented the small schools and got better every day (at senior Bowl practices).
Drew Boylhart of www.thehuddlereport.com reports: CB - Keith Smith - McNeese St - Nickel/dime CB with potential to start.
Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports: McNeese State's Keith Smith ran in the low 4.4s at the Combine.
NFLFans.com reports: Smith is a very good overall athlete possessing all the raw tools to be an above average NFL CB. Shows very good coverage skills, speed, quickness and agility with a good burst on the field. Needs to build some more muscle and learn to be a more physical player all around.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Lewis	O	5-11½, 228	4.54	4.34	11.70	6.84	25	41"	10-5

Lewis
Wisconsin

#7 ranked OLB by Jaybird

NFLFans.com reports: OLB Alex Lewis might be better suited to be a backup and special teamer in the NFL but could develop into a limited starter with time to develop.
Jay Goldberg of 900FootballLinks.NET reports: Lewis is a very underrated player. He is fast, strong, can blitz, can cover and has good instincts. Some question his size, but he is a terrific athlete who will be a quality starter in the NFL down-the-line.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Butler	T	6-7¼, 324	5.10	1.80	4.70	7.96	19	34½"	10-1

Butler
Purdue

#7 ranked OT by Jaybird

Pete Fiutak / CollegeFootballNews.com posted at foxsports.com reports: Projected: 2nd to 3rd round. Good or bad move to leave early? An interesting prospect, Butler is very big at around 6-8 and 320 pounds and has been a fixture on the Boilermaker line. He has the experience, and certainly the size, to move on to the next level and handle the work.
Pat Kirwan of NFL.com reports: Tackle Kelly Butler from Purdue will not catch Robert Gallery, but he is close to becoming a late first-round selection. He has a ways to go but at 6-foot-7, 320 pounds and a 5.1 in the 40, he's heading there.
GBNReport reports: Purdue junior OT Kelly Butler, who as has emerged as a kind of Robert Gallery-lite, has started to attract some late-first round attention. Like Gallery, Butler is huge (6-8, 320) and athletic with 5.10 speed.
Mel Kiper of ESPN.com reports: As the draft day countdown approaches three weeks, Kiper has identified Butler as a fast riser.

PLAYER	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Van Zandt (WR)	6-0 7/8, 207	4.50	-	4.50	11.40	6.99	20	34"	10-5

PLAYER	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	LONG SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Brandt (TE)	6-4, 250	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

Brandt
Miami - Ohio

Jaybird: below 4th round

Eric Edholm of ProFootballWeekly.com reports: Under the radar -TE Matt Brandt, Miami (Ohio) — A former QB, Brandt (6-4, 250) is still raw, but he became top prospect QB Ben Roethlisberger’s main go-to target by the end of last season. Because he knows the passing routes and seams so well, he gets open well and is a nice target. Brandt’s blocking still needs work, but some compare him to a poor man’s Christian Fauria.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Hall	T	6-3¼, 307	5.26	-	5.22	8.33	22	27"	8-3

B Hall
Troy State

Jaybird: below 4th round

NFLFans.com reports: Prior to the Blue-Gray game I would have given little attention to this guy from a small school but he helped himself a great deal in this game by stepping up big time in an important contest for draft hopefuls and as a result is not rising on scouts charts. If he follows this up with a solid combine he should become a solid day two selection.

PLAYER	POS	HGT-WGHT	FORTY	10 DASH	SHORT SHUTTLE	3 CONE	BENCH	VERTICAL JUMP	LONG JUMP
Childress	DT	6-5 3/8, 336	5.20	-	5.36	-	20	24½"	7-10

Childress
Alabama

Jaybird: below 4th round

Matt Gambill of AllProScouting reports: YES, he is crazy for leaving, but he is an enormous kid with a lot of athletic ability and upside. He needs to get in top condition before the combine. That will be VERY important to him. I see him as a 5th-7th rounder though at best.
Pete Fiutak / CollegeFootballNews.com posted at foxsports.com reports: Projected: late first day. Good or bad move to leave early? Very big, almost too big at a heavy 345 pounds. He'll play the role of run stuffer for someone, but he'll need to prove he can be an every down player at the next level.

TEAM NEWS/NEEDS PRIOR TO THE DRAFT

Jay Goldberg of 90FootballLinks.NET reports:
major need need position possible need, depth needed no real need
Key UFA: Bryson RB, Jett P, Brown G, Beverly G, Green LB, Hall DE, Walker S
Key RFA: McMahon QB (5th round), Anderson WR (5th round)
NOTE - RFA COMPENSATION AT MINIMUM TENDER
QB: The jury is still out on Harrington. McMahon is a RFA who will leave this year or next. Detmer is an UFA. A long-term backup needs to be secured.
RB: A lot to choose from, but no franchise backs on the roster. If healthy, Stewart is okay. Pinner may be best as a west coast FB. Bryson, if resigned, is a change-of-pace guy. Gary was a disappointment. An upgrade is needed.
WR: Rogers will be a star. In time, Kircus could develop as the receiver who plays opposite Rogers. I like his upside. Anderson is a RFA who the Lions' have to make a decision on. Schroeder and Hakim are competent role players if not relied on as starters, or used incorrectly. A vet to play opposite Rogers for a year or two would be helpful, even if Anderson and Jefferson are brought back.
TE: While he won't see any Pro Bowls, Fitzsimmons is a good fit for this system. Ricks flashes big play potential, but is not consistent. Owens can block.
OL: All-in-all a solid unit. However guard could be an area of concern. Brown is old, and Beverly is replaceable.
DL: Solid at tackle, the Lions need an upgrade at end. Hall, who was their least ballyhooed (but not bed-bugged) but best end last year is an UFA. Porcher and Edwards and Hall (if resigned) do not get enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
LB: A surprisingly effective unit. Bailey played very well as a rookie, combining tackling skills with athletic ability. Holmes was a steady presence in the middle. Green, an UFA, is an active linebacker who is always around the ball. Depth and Green-insurance is all that is needed this offseason.
DB: Safety is a major need for this team. Both Walker and Harris are excellent subs who can be be capable starters. As a starting unit they are, well, boring. At corner, on the other hand, Bly is anything but boring. He is a difference maker. If Cash and Goodman come back strong from injury the Lions should be fine at corner.
ST: Hansen is a very good kicker, however something needs to be done at punter. Harris is inconsistent, and Jett is an UFA. Drummond is a future Pro Bowl returner, who could get some spot play on offense next year.

KFFL.com reports: Northern Illinois RB Michael Turner said at the NFL Combine Friday, Feb. 20, that he has met with the Detroit Lions.
KFFL.com reports: Florida TE Ben Troupe he met with the Detroit Lions at the NFL Combine Friday, Feb. 20.
USAToday.com reports: The Lions have needs galore. They will try to fill some of them — possibly a starting guard and a starting cornerback — in the free agent market and will work on the rest in the draft. The top needs include a safety, a running back, a tight end and Mariucci can't afford to ignore an impact pass rusher if there's one available somewhere in the mid rounds. The name that frequently comes up with the Lions' first-round pick — No. 6 overall — is Miami safety Sean Taylor. He would fill a glaring need and has all the skills and temperament the Lions need in that position.
James Royer, of DetroitLions.com, reports: "As for finding another tailback, of which the Lions currently only employ two – RBs Artose Pinner and Olandis Gary – Marucci said, "We are going to add to that group one way or the other whether it is in free agency or the draft."

2003 COLLEGE DRAFT

Detroit
Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School
1	2	Rogers, Charles	WR	6-2	202	Michigan State
2	34	Bailey, Boss	OLB	6-3	233	Georgia
3	66	Redding, Cory	DE	6-4	279	Texas
4	99	Pinner, Artose	RB	5-10	229	Kentucky
5	137	Holt, Terrence	FS	6-2	208	North Carolina State
5	144	Davis, James	SS	6-1	221	West Virginia
6	175	Kircus, David	WR	6-1	186	Grand Valley State
7	216	Johnson, Ben	OT	6-7	329	Wisconsin
7	220	Adams, Daniel 'Blue'	CB	5-9	182	Cincinnati
7	236	Drumm, Brandon	FB	6-1	233	Colorado
7	260	Anglin, Travis	WR	6-4	192	Memphis

2003 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

Rogers was a great pick for the Lions. He is a future Pro Bowl player at a position of extreme need. Getting Bailey in round two was excellent value. Bailey was a first-round talent on many teams' boards and should be an immediate starter for the Lions. Likewise, Redding was good value in round three. He should be part of the defensive line rotation this year, and, is an eventually replacement for Robert Porcher down-the-line. Pinner is a very underrated back. He was one of my 12-to-watch. He can run, catch and block. His only limitation is big-play ability. However, if Luke Staley works out, Pinner could be an excellent starting fullback in Mooch's offense. The fullback is a contributor in the Mooch's West Coast Offense and Pinner blocks well enough to play the position. He would be one of Mooch's best weapons ever from that position. In my opinion, Holt was a steal in round five. He may not have the measureables of some of the other top safeties, but he has the football smarts and that is a key to good safety play. Worst case, the Lions get a demon on special teams. Davis is a good athlete making a position change from outside linebacker to strong safety. He should be another good special team player and could be used in some specialty defense packages as a blitzer right away. Kirkus is a small college receiver with a good upside. Ben Johnson was a steal in round seven. He will make the team and could eventually be a starter. Adams could eventually be used in nickel packages. He is a ballhawk. If Pinner stays at running back, Drumm could stick as a back-up fullback. Anglin needs to add bulk and work on his skills. But most seventh-rounders need something. The Lions also added an interesting developmental project in undrafted free agent quarterback Curt Aines.

Rogers

The Great Blue North (gbnreport.com) reports one tidbit from the just completed combines that kind of slipped under the radar screen is the fact that Michigan State WR Charles Rogers, arguably the top-rated prospect overall for the 2003 draft, wasn't as big as NFL teams had anticipated. Rogers measured in at Indianapolis at just 6-2, 205 rather than the advertised 6-4, 210. Whether that affects Rogers' ultimate drafts status is still to be determined, but it could further cloud an already very murky situation at the top of the 2003 draft board.
WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports , Rogers ran once on FieldTurf indoors. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.33 seconds. This prospect stood at 6-2 3/8 and weighed 200 pounds. He ran the 40 once on FieldTurf indoors in 4.3 seconds. Rogers also had a 37-inch vertical, a 10-foot-1 long jump, ran the short shuttle in 4.19 seconds and did the three-cone drill in 7.10 seconds.
ESPN.com reports: wide receiver Charles Rogers, expected to be one of the top picks in the April 26 NFL draft, tested positive at the scouting combine in Indianapolis for a drug masking agent, sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen on Sunday. The masking agent is designed to dilute one's urine and is likely to land Rogers in the evaluation stage of the league's substance-abuse program. Testing positive for a masking agent is considered by the NFL the same as testing positive for a banned substance because some players take the agents to cover up banned drug use. ESPN was unable to reach Rogers on Sunday for an explanation.
Chris Mortensen of ESPN.com reports, Michigan State WR Charles Rogers blamed an excessive intake of water for his positive testing for “diluted urine.” Through his agent Kevin Poston, Rogers claims he was encouraged by doctors to consume an excessive amount of water because he was having trouble producing a urine sample that day.

Bailey

Allen Treiu of draftblitz.com reports thru Charles Odum at insiders.com that Boss Bailey is reportedly running a 4.28 forty and getting close to a 50-inch vertical with Chip Smith in Atlanta.
WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, Bailey did not work out at the Combine, but put on a heck of a show at Pro Day. Bailey measured up at 6-3¼ and 230 pounds, and ran a 4.35 on a rubber track and ran one time because he tweaked his hamstring. He also had a 44.5-inch vertical jump along with a 10-foot, 11-inch long jump.
Len Pasquarelle of ESPN.com reports: Linebacker Boss Bailey tweaked his hamstring, but some scouts still had him at 4.38-4.42 in the 40, and he had a 45 ½-inch vertical jump.

Redding

WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, Redding did not work out at the Combine, but did here. He stood at 6-3 5/8 and weighed 274 pounds. Redding ran the 40 in 4.88 and 4.89 seconds on two attempts. His vertical was recorded at 29 inches while his long jump was 9-foot-3½. Redding added 26 lifts and ran the three-cone drill in 7.09 and had a short shuttle time of 4.28 seconds. His arms were also measured at 33½ inches.

Pinner

The Great Blue North report (gbnreport.com) reports One player who definitely won't be running this week at the scouting combine in Indianapolis is Kentucky RB Artose Pinner. Pinner broke the fibula in his right leg at the Senior Bowl last month and will be in a cast until March 20th. That's a tough break for Pinner, who has always been an accomplished receiver coming out of the backfield, but had catapulted himself from something of a draft afterthought to a solid first-day prospect, if healthy, after leading the SEC in rushing this past season. Pinner, though, did weigh in this week - he's 5-10, 228 - and hopes to run in the 4.52 range at a private workout closer to the draft.
Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.com reports, Observations from one AFC general manager: "There are so many backs who didn't run, and who we're going to have to see in campus workouts, it isn't even funny. But the one kid who didn't have a choice in the matter, and who I am anxious to see, if Artose Pinner (of Kentucky). He was on crutches with a broken leg, so you can't blame him for not running, not like some of those other (sissies) who bailed out. But I felt like he was the best pure tailback I saw last year, at least on the East Coast, and I hope he's healthy soon. He's got some wiggle, is built low to the ground, and catches the ball OK."

Holt

WORKOUT NUMBERS Matt Gambill of AllProScouting.com reports, Terrence Holt-FS pro day numbers: 6017, 208, 4.53 and 4.57 forty

Kircus

WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, David Kircus was the main attraction here. Standing at 6-1¾ and 182 pounds, Kircus ran the 40-yard dash in 4.48 and 4.47 seconds. He had a vertical jump of 40 inches, a long jump of 10-foot-9, a short shuttle of 3.83 seconds, and a three-cone drill time of 6.56 seconds. He wasn't going to do the bench press, claiming he was there to run but not lift weights, but got talked into it by some scouts. Well, Kircus lifted the bar four times. Thank goodness he's a receiver and not an offensive tackle.

B Johnson

AllProScouting.com reports Wisconsin OT Ben Johnson checked in at the combine at 6064, 329-pounds, but will not workout due to a pulled hammy.
WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, Ben Johnson ran 5.36. Had a 28-inch vertical jump and an 8-foot long jump. Didn't lift since he benched 30 times at the Combine.

Adams

WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, CB Danny Adams stood at 5-9¼ and 186 pounds. He ran the 40 in 4.44 and 4.46 seconds. He had 12 benches, a 37½-inch vertical, a 10-foot-6 long jump, a 4.3 in the short shuttle and a 6.76 in the three-cone drill. He started as true freshman, had four interceptions, but in 1999, he tore his MCL and didn't play much in 2000 or 2001. He played pretty good this last year, even snagging two passes against Ohio State.

Drumm

WORKOUT NUMBERS Gil Brandt of NFL.com reports, FB Drumm, who went to high school in Alaska, weighed in at 227 pounds. He ran his 40s in 4.66 and 4.7, and the short shuttle in 4.47. His vertical jump was 32 inches and his broad jump was 10-5. He did not bench in Boulder, but he did at Indy.

2002 COLLEGE DRAFT

GRADE : A

Harrington was the correct pick and could be a better QB than Carr in the long run. Edwards slipped some but is still a great pass-rushing DE. He should start and get a lot of sacks because of the quality of the rest of the Lions' DL. His success could mirror the success of Howard from NO in his rookie year. Goodman was a great pick in round three. He could be a nickel corner in his rookie season and develop into a solid cover corner by his sophomore year. Taylor is a good athlete but may not have a true NFL position. Staley was the steal of the entire draft. He should, eventually, beat out Stewart and give the Lions their best RB since the days of Barry Sanders. OT Rogers was also a steal in the seventh round. He had grades as high as round three and could have a solid NFL career. The Lions also signed one of the top street free agents in RB/WR Drummond. He ran a 4.28 in workouts and can be an excellent return man, third down RB and/or slot WR. He has the potential to be an exciting player.

Links below take you to NFL.com's report on player, position or college team.

Rd	Sel#	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	School
1	3	Harrington, Joey	QB	6-4	215	Oregon
2	35	Edwards, Kalimba	DE	6-5	265	South Carolina
3	68	Goodman, Andre'	CB	5-10	182	South Carolina
4	134	Taylor, John	DE	6-3	236	Montana State
5	138	Owens, John	TE	6-3	265	Notre Dame
6	175	Cash, Christopher	CB	5-10	177	Southern California
7	214	Staley, Luke	RB	6-1	227	Brigham Young
7	252	Murphy, Matt	TE	6-5	253	Maryland
7	259	Rogers, Victor	G	6-6	331	Colorado

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