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BALTIMORE RAVENS

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2009 draft      2008 draft     2007 draft     2006 draft

2005 draft     2004 draft     2003 draft     2002 draft

 

2009 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 23 Michael Oher OT Mississippi #5 OT Round 1

Senior Bowl practice comment

Speed appears to be the only way to possibly get by this mammoth of a man.  He played well in the one-on-one drills.

ONE ON ONE BLOCKING DRILLS SCORED BY JAY GOLDBERG

7 - 3 Veikune 2-2   Matthews 1-1   Ayers 2-0   Moore 2-0

Senior Bowl Game

Oher played a solid game.  He was good in pass protection and I noticed a nice seal block on a running play.
2 57 Paul Kruger DE Utah #7 DE Round 2
3 88 Lardarius Webb CB Nicholls State #29 CB Round 5
5 137 Jason Phillips ILB TCU #7 ILB Round 3
5 149 Davon Drew TE East Carolina NR Late Round Value
6 185 Cedric Peerman RB Virginia #12 RB Round 4

Senior Bowl practice comment

Peerman looked quick and showed good hands.  Could be a good third down/change-of pace back.

Senior Bowl Game

With the exception of a fumble (which is a concern because of his small hands), Peerman looked very good.  He showed the ability to make tacklers miss, and toughness after being hit.
FA ---- Jason Cook FB Mississippi NR 7th/FA
FA ---- Dannell Ellerbe ILB Georgia #6 ILB Round 3
FA ---- Robby Felix C/G UTEP NR 7th/FA
FA ---- Graham Gano K/P Florida State #4 K Late Round Value
FA ---- Will Johnson DT/DE Michigan #16 DT Round 5

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

Wow!  How does 47 bench presses, a 9'4" broad jump, and in the top third in quickness and change-of direction skills for defensive tackles sound to you?  That sounds mighty fine to me.  Whether at tackle in a 4-3 or end in a 3-4 this kid has to have some GM drooling.  He is worth a shot late in the draft.
FA ---- Eron Riley WR Duke #19 WR Round 4

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

Riley is fast, an explosive athlete, and was highly productive at Duke.  He will be a very good kick returner and will help a team initially as a #3 or #4 receiver.  He is also not one of those diminutive speed burners.  At almost 6'3" with a 40" vertical, Riley is a unique physical specimen.  He could be a nice surprise down the line as a solid starter for the team that drafts him.

 

C+

2009 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

Outside of their first pick and their last pick, I would have gone in different directions.  That is not to say that Baltimore didn't add quality players; they did.  However, I really liked some of the moves the Ravens did signing college street free agents.  A couple have very high ceiling, but are far from sure things.

DRAFT PICKS

Oher was solid value where he was selected and will be a good NFL player for a long time.  He'll start off on the right side but has the quickness and athleticism to move to the left side down the line if he does a bit more work in the weight room.

Kruger is a solid player.  However, I see him as a classic 4-3 defensive end.  He isn't athletic enough to play Suggs position, and isn't big enough to play Pryce's position.  Maybe without Scott, Baltimore will mix in different fronts.  With their current defensive alignment in mind, I would have drafted Jarron Gilbert.  He has the size, speed and athleticism to eventually replace Pryce.

Even before the Mason retirement (if it sticks), I had wide receiver as the major need area for the Ravens.  With Flacco's arm a consistent deep threat would bring a great dimension to Baltimore's offense.  So here I would have drafted wide receiver Mike Thomas, or even wide receiver Johnny Knox.  In addition, I liked cornerback Keenan Lewis more than Webb because he has the potential to be a top starting cornerback.  However, Webb has very good speed and quickness and will be a plus as a nickel corner. 

Phillips has good speed and quickness and will give Gooden a run for his money to replace Scott.  However, I believe Jasper Brinkley will be a special player and he could have slid in next Lewis immediately and down the line (after Lewis retires) could have been the Ravens' enforcer.  The kid is very strong and a big-time hitter.

The Ravens liked Drew more than me.  After signing L.J. Smith (and selecting a receiver in round three), I would have opted for cornerback Macho Harris here.  Drew is ca good receiver, but his workout was unimpressive and he may have a had time translating to the NFL.

The Raven's selection of the underrated Peerman was very interesting.  Despite his lack of height, he is solid as a rock, strong as an ox and has the speed to run outside and take it the distance.  The one knock on him is that he occasionally puts the ball on the ground. and because of his small hands that could be a problem that is difficult for him to overcome.  However, the kid is a good football player and the Ravens' drafting him could signal a quicker end to McGahee's stint on the Ravens than many think.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

Jason Cook is a tough kid who is a willing and effective blocker.  However with Peerman and Parmele it is more likely the Ravens' will carry an extra running back than fullback.  He could land on the Ravens' development squad.

Ellerbe received a similar grade from me as Phillips.  It will be interesting to see how much of a chance he is given to compete with him for a roster spot.

Felix is a strong kid who can play center or guard.  He will most likely land on Baltimore's development squad and could grow into a solid sub down the line.

Will Johnson may have been the strongest player available in the draft.  He also is surprisingly quick and athletic for a kid his size.  He could be a nice surprise as an end in the Ravens' 3-4 defense or could be just a workout warrior.  I think he has a real chance and is certainly worth a long look in camp.

Riley is another nice signing by Baltimore.  The kid is smart, tall, fast and very athletic.  He was also productive at Duke.  He is one of my deep sleepers and, showing his smarts, signed with the perfect team.  He has a real chance to steal a spot on the roster in camp and, long term, could be a deep threat for Flacco. 

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 40 10 20 SHORT LONG 3 CONE VERT BROAD
Oher Michael Mississippi 6'4.4" 309 M-L 21 5.16 1.78 3.03 4.60 - 7.81 31" 8'7"
Kruger Paul Utah 6'4.2" 263 S-M 24 4.79 1.58 2.76 4.47 - 7.52 32.5" 9'1"
Webb Lardarius Nicholls State 5'9.6" 179 M-M 15 4.35 1.49 2.54 4.10  - 6.77 36.5" 9'11"
Phillips Jason TCU 6'0.6" 239 M-M 20 4.60 1.56 2.69 4.32 - - 34" 10'0"
Drew Davon East Carolina 6'3.6" 256 XL-L 17 4.73 1.58 2.72 4.66  - 7.28 29.5" 9'5"
Peerman Cedric Virginia 5'9.4" 216 M-S 27 4.39 1.47 2.54 4.29 - 6.99 40" 9'9"
Cook Jason Mississippi 5'11.2" 244 XL-XL 22 4.71 1.58 2.72 4.38 - 7.20 33.5" 9'6"
Ellerbe Dannell Georgia 6'1" 236 L-M - - - - 4.23 - 7.00 35" 9'10"
Felix Robby UTEP 6'3.2" 302 S-M 33 5.19 1.72 2.94 4.92 - 8.13 26" 8'1"
Johnson Will Michigan 6'4.1" 288 - 47 5.07 1.71 2.88 4.61 - 7.51 27.5" 9'4"
Riley Eron Duke 6'2.6" 206 - 13 4.36 1.48 2.57 4.24 - 6.71 40" 11'2"

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

QB Flacco had a very good rookie year and is the real deal.  He will get better and be a game-changer at quarterback throwing the deep ball.  At backup, Boller and Bouman are UFAs and Smith is untested.  Look for the Ravens to add an experienced quarterback to their roster.
RB In my opinion, McGahee is a bit overrated and McClain is best served as a backup who can run out the clock, and get tough yards in third and short and around the goal line.  Rice, on the other hand, is the real deal and should be given the reins as the Ravens' lead back.  I also like the potential of Parmalee, who the Ravens stole off the Dolphins practice squad.  For this unit to be optimal, McGahee should be cut lose in the offseason.  Oh yeah, and they have one of the best blocking fullbacks in the league in Neal but he is an UFA.
WR This unit needs a consistent, reliable deep threat.  Mason is still a solid receiver.  Clayton hasn't developed as hoped, and may be best served as the team's third receiver.  I always liked Williams but he hasn't been able to stay on the field.  The Ravens need to address this position in the offseason.  With Flacco's arm, receivers that can stretch the field and catch the ball would open up the offense.
TE Heap has fallen from a top option in the offense to an afterthought.  His backup Wilcox is an UFA.  If the ravens want a block-first tight end, they would be best served drafting a new starter and moving Heap while they can still get some decent value for him.
OL This unit played surprising well, especially Gaither at left tackle replacing Ogden.  Center Brown is an UFA and he will either have to be brought back or a replacement will have to be found for him.  This is a good draft for centers.
DL The Ravens line is a strength for the team.  Ngata is tough to handle and has become one of the better defensive players in the league.  Pryce is still solid at end, and Bannan filled in very well for Gregg on the nose.  All this team needs is some bodies to compete for backup spots at end.
LB Suggs, Lewis and Scott, the teams three top linebackers are all UFAs.  Johnson remains, but he didn't take the step forward the team hoped for.  He is solid, but not the player Thomas was when he manned that spot before leaving for New England.
DB This is a deep and talented unit.  At corner Rolle and Washington are a top starting duo, and the team can expect a bounce back year from McAllister in 2009.  At safety Reed is as good as it gets, and Leonhard played himself into a starting job for 2009, and with Landry, Zbikowski and Nakamura all talented players on hand, Leonhard keeping ascending to key starter says a lot about how well he player.  All this team could look to add in the offseason in their secondary is a young developmental cornerback.
ST Long time kicker Stover is a free agent and the team will have to decide whether to bring him back or draft one of the talented kickers available in this year's draft.  Koch is a good punter, Leonhard and Zbikowski acceptable return men.  However, it's time for Figurs to step up and be the consistent, explosive return man he should be, or be cut.

 

2008 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 18 Joe Flacco QB 6'6.3" 236 Delaware #2 QB Round 1

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

Flacco has a very strong arm.  In addition, when he decides to make a throw, his release is very quick.  For a big kid, he moves well in the pocket, ala Ben Roethlisberger.  I believe he has the biggest upside of all quarterbacks in this draft, although he will need time to catch up to the speed of the game in the NFL.  This is quarterback I would target in the draft.
2 55 Ray Rice RB 5'8" 199 Rutgers #6 RB Round 2
3 71 Tavares Gooden OLB/ILB 6'1.2" 234 Miami #6 ILB Round 3
3 86 Tom Zbikowski FS/SS/RET 5'11.2" 211 Notre Dame # 3 SS Round 3

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

Zbikowski will need to go to the right system to be a difference-maker on defense.  He will be a special teams stud.  He is very strong, tough, and has superb quickness.  He is the ideal in the box-safety who will make opponents pay for going into his zone.  He is not a fit for teams that play their safeties interchangeable.  Even though he has enough speed to be good in coverage, that is not his strength.  He is also an accomplished punt returner.
3 99 Oniel Cousins OG/OT 6'4" 308 UTEP #9 OT Round 2/Round 3

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

Cousins is an athletic tackle with good speed.  After the top left tackles come off the board, this is the kid I believe has a chance to develop into a quality starting left tackle down the line.
4 106 Marcus Smith WR 6'1.3" 221 New Mexico   Late Round Value/Free Agent
4 133 David Hale OT 6'5.6" 314 Weber St   Late Round Value
6 206 Haruki Nakamura FS/RET 5'10.5" 210 Cincinnati   Late Round Value

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

Nakamura will, most likely, not be drafted until late in day two, but will be one of the better gets late on day two.  He will be a solid special teams player and has the skills and athleticism to develop into a top sub or even capable starter down the line.
7 215 Justin Harper WR 6'3.4" 213 Virg Tech   Late Round Value/Free Agent
7 240 Allen Patrick RB 6'0.6" 198 Oklahoma   Late Round Value/Free Agent
FA   Ernie Wheelwright WR 6'4.5" 215 Minnesota   Late Round Value
FA   Adam Kraus OG/C 6'5.6" 305 Michigan   Late Round Value/Free Agent
FA   Jameel McClain ILB 6'0.6" 249 Syracuse   Late Round Value

 

B+

2008 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Ravens had a nice draft up top, but I wasn't as crazy about some of their later picks.  Cousins was great value and, of the later picks, Nakamura could surprise.  However, there was excellent depth at cornerback and the Ravens didn't grab one, and instead reached for wide receiver Smith.  For free agents, watch Wheelwright who I actually like a bit more than Smith and Harper.

DRAFT PICKS

Flacco was my second-rated quarterback in the draft and the one who could have the highest upside of all the quarterbacks in the draft.  He has a big-time arm and a quick release when he decides to get rid of the ball.  He does hold it too long at times, but that is a correctable flaw as he gains more experience and learns his reads.  He isn't NFL-ready yet, so if rushed this year could get set back some.  There will be a temptation to get him on the field before he's ready because he will look great in practice and against b-players in exhibition games.

Rice is a better running back than the overrated McGahee.  I'll say it again, Rice is a better runner than McGahee.  The Ravens will start off with Rice as a change-of-pace, but he will soon eat into McGahee's touches and by the time Flacco is established (next year), Rice will be the Ravens' top runner.  He is a short man, not a small man.  He is tough, can run inside and has enough speed to bounce outside and pick up chunks of yards.  He has excellent quickness and can make make sharp cuts in the hole.  A great pick for Baltimore at a position I considered a greater need than most others.

Gooden is an active linebacker who can play inside or outside.  He could be a nice fit in Bart Scott's position down-the-line should he have to slide into Ray Lewis' position in a year or two.  Gooden is a very good athlete who will excel on special teams until he finds a spot on the base defense.

Zbikowski is a player I like a lot.  He is a tough guy who his defensive teammates will love.  Zbikowski is strong tough and quick, but is much better in-the-box than in coverage.  He could push Landry in a year or two and be a great fit with Reed.  He will excel on special teams and could become a Pro Bowl player as a special teams cover guy.  

Cousins was another excellent grab.  After the round one guys, Cousins was a player I liked later in the draft who could grow injto a starting left tackle.  He has the athleticism, but needs to hit the weight room.

The Ravens liked the potential of Smith more than me.  At receiver, Hawkins would have been my pick at this spot.  And that would not 

have even been a close call.  I like Hawkins much more than Smith.  In fact, I would have gone corner here and tried to draft Hubbard at receiver later in the draft.  Jack Williams, Wilhite, Bowman and Scandrick were all available at this spot.  Smith is not a great athlete, has some speed, but is not particularly quick, and has good hands.  Time will tell.

Hale is a tackle prospect who opened some eyes during the post-season.  His best asset is his quick feet.  His worst is his lack of athleticism.  He may be best kicked inside to guard.  To do that he may have to bulk up some.

Nakamura was an underrated prospect heading into the draft.  He is a smart kid who plays hard and gets the most out of his smallish frame.  He should be a solid special teams player, an intriguing option in the return game, and solid sub who can fill in for a starter and hold serve when called upon.  A nice get by Baltimore.

Harper was suppose to have more speed than he showed at the Combine.  However, as disappointing as his forty time was (4.52, not bad, but not as advertised), it was his Marcus-Smith like short shuttle time (a quickness indicator) that had me most concerned.  Based on the Ravens' drafting Smith and Harper, they obviously do not put much stock in the short shuttle for receivers.  However, I do.  Harper, like Smith, did show excellent hands at the Combine.  It's just that both may have trouble getting open and have limited YAC.

Allen Patrick is another player with disappointing workout numbers.  He is not overly big, not particularly fast, and not particularly quick.  He was productive in college, and knows how to run so could be a reliable #3 back.  Just don't expect too much.

COLLEGE STREET FREE AGENTS

Wheelwright has a good mix of size, speed and hands.  He is more fast than quick, and could find his way onto the Ravens' practice squad and even suit up for some games.  Down the line he could be a solid #4 receiver.

Kraus played at a big-time program and has the versatility to play all along the line making him potentially a valuable backup.  He is another candidate for the Ravens' practice squad in the short run.

McClain is a classic 3-4 inside linebacker.  Since the Ravens play a hybrid 3-4, 4-3 with Suggs as the swingman, McClain could find a role in some of the Ravens' defensive packages. 

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 40 10 20 SHORT LONG 3 CONE VERT BROAD
Flacco Joe DELAWARE 6'6.3" 236  NA 4.78 1.71 2.79 4.27 NA 6.82 28.5" 9'2"
Rice Ray RUTGERS 5'8" 199 23 4.47 1.51 2.52 4.17 NA 6.65 39.5" 10'1"
Gooden Tavares MIAMI 6'1.2" 234 22 4.53 1.52 2.62 NA NA NA 39" 9'10"
Zbikowski Tom NOTRE DAME 5'11.2" 211 24 4.44 1.49 2.55 4.04 NA 6.58 32.5" 9'1"
Cousins Onniel UTEP 6'4" 308 23 5.11 1.77 2.94 4.80 NA 7.90 24.5" 8'11"
Smith Marcus NEW MEXICO 6'1.3" 221 20 4.51 1.50 2.61 4.42 NA 7.10 29" 9'3"
Hale David WEBER ST 6'5.6" 314 25 5.26 1.81 3.02 4.63 NA 7.51 29" 8'4"
Nakamura Haruki CINCINNATI 5'10.5" 210 20 4.55 1.53 2.65 4.33 NA 6.93 34.5" 10'0"
Harper Justin VIRG TECH 6'3.4" 213 NA 4.52 1.54 2.61 4.43 NA 7.10 28.5" 10'0"
Patrick Allen OKLAHOMA 6'0.6" 198 17 4.55 1.53 2.65 4.51 NA 7.56 36" 10'0"
Wheelwright Ernie MINNESOTA 6'4.5" 215 NA 4.50 1.58 2.67 NA NA NA 36" NA
Kraus Adam MICHIGAN 6'5.6" 305 NA 5.35 1.79 3.04 4.79 NA 7.65 26.5" 8'2"
McClain Jameel SYRACUSE 6'0.6" 249 24 4.73 1.56 2.74 4.31 NA 7.12 37" 9'8"

2008 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY

BAL          Major Need          Need          Upgrade         Depth Need         Not a Need

QB  McNair's skills are on the decline.  Boller appears to be nothing more than a backup.  It's hard to imagine that Smith will be anything more than a quality backup as well.  I say part ways with Boller and bring in a quarterback to be a starter this year or next.
RB  McGahee had an excellent first year with Baltimore.  Smith is a tease.  He has skills, but hasn't been as good as hoped.  Anderson is a solid pro but is used little.  There are a lot of change-of-pace, third down backs in this draft and the Ravens should grab one.
WR  Clayton took a step back this year.  I think he'll turn it around next year.  Mason is steady, but not a game-breaker.  Look for Williams to have a very good year next year.  Darling has his moments.  A reliable receiver with good hands and quickness to groom as a third wideout to play behind Clayton and Williams down the line should be added while Mason is still effective.  Receivers take time to develop.
TE The team has Todd Heap and get a grade of "need".  Huh?  Heap is starting to miss too much time and get nicked up and play at less than full strength too often.  It is time to bring in a top tight end prospect who could allow the Ravens to let Heap walk when he becomes a free agent.  
OL  Ogden could retire.  The options to replace him on the roster are okay, but an upgrade would help.  The rest of the Ravens' line is solid, with a good balance of youth and experience.  Extra bodies to compete for backup spots is always a good idea.
DL Pryce is in the same boat as Heap.  Too much time on the shelf.  He is a good player, however, when he is on the field.  Ngata, Gregg ans OLB/DE Suggs are all very good.  The Raven's should bring an end who can push Pryce to start.  They could also use some depth.
LB Scott didn't play as well this year as last.  I wouldn't give up on him yet.  Lewis is still solid against the run.  Johnson was okay replacing Thomas, but an upgrade should be looked for.  Barnes could be the guy.  An upgrade for Johnson and a young inside linebacker are needed.
DB McAllister and Rolle are good when healthy, but they both had health problems last year.  Rolle's may continue into 2008.  Their depth behind these two is suspect.  The Raven's need a couple of corners, one who could push to start, one who can play as a nickel or dime.  At safety, Reed is All Pro, but a player to push Landry could be added.
ST There are no major needs here assuming Figurs improves as I and the Ravens expect.  Camp competition is all that will be brought in.

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2007 DRAFT PICKS
links go to NFL.com website

Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 29 Grubbs, Ben G 6-3 314 Auburn #2 OG Round 1
3 74 Figurs, Yamon WR 5-11 174 Kansas State #19 WR Round 4
3 86 Yanda, Marshall G 6-4 304 Iowa #6 OT Round 3
4 134 Barnes, Antwan OLB 6-1 240 Florida International #10 OLB Round 4
4 137 McClain, Le'Ron FB 6-0 257 Alabama Late Round Value
5 174 Smith, Troy QB 6-1 213 Ohio State # 9 QB  Round 4
6 207 Burgess, Prescott OLB 6-3 235 Michigan Late Round Value
FA Gaston, Willie CB 5-10 188 Houston #20 CB, #7 FS Round 4
FA Johnson, Donnie FS 5-11 208 Penn State Off My Board
FA Jones, Edgar DE 6-3 263 SE Missouri State Off My Board
FA Leeson, Nick LS 6-2 255 Virginia Tech Late Round Value
FA Martin, Joe LB 6-2 230 San Diego State Off My Board
FA Pruitt Jr, Greg RB 5-8 210 North Car Central Off My Board

 

B

2007 COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD

by Jay Goldberg

The Ravens had a a solid draft, even though they reached slightly for Figurs and McClain.  However, outside of corner/safety Willie Gaston, and possibly long snapper Nick Leeson, I don't see any college street free agents who excite me, and the team could have used some quality bodies to fight for backup positions along on their defensive line.

Grubbs was a solid, albeit unexciting selection in round one.  He will move either Brown or Vincent to the bench and be a long term, quality starter in the NFL.  Figurs is faster than a speeding bullet, but don't expect Superman.  He is an exciting return man and has good hands as a receiver.  He also has excellent moves, a result of good cutting ability more than great quickness.  While Figurs was a slight reach near the top of round two, I understand the pick.  Figurs will be a valuable member of the team.  Yanda was a great grab in round three and could start at right tackle for the Ravens.  Yanda looked good on tape but many thought he would have to kick inside because of his lack of athleticism.  However, his workout showed he has the tools to play right tackle.  Yanda is quick so moving to guard is also a possibility.  worst case, Yanda will be a valuable, versatile backup.  Barnes may be the steal of the Ravens' draft.  The kid is strong as an ox, has 4.4 speed, is a great athlete, and has experience playing OLB in a 3-4 defense.  In college he had 38 tackles for loss his last two years.  Barnes could eventually step in for the departed Thomas and be another in the long line of playmaking Raven linebackers.  The offseason resulted in Baltimore having to reach a bit for fullback McClain.  He is one of the best blocking fullbacks in the draft and that is a need area for Baltimore.  Who is Troy Smith?  If he is the player that showed top quarterback skills for most of his senior year, the Ravens have a good developmental quarterback.  If he is the player who showed poor accuracy at the Senior Bowl and Combine, the Ravens have nothing.  The answer may be somewhere in the middle.  Smith may make it in the NFL as a decent backup quarterback.  I thought Burgess' best chance to stick was as a backup SAM in a 4-3.  It's possible that the Ravens will move him inside.  Burgess is a solid special teams player.  I would have gone with David Patterson, a defensive tackle who projected to end in a 3-4, or C.J. Ah You a defensive end with the frame to bulk up to be a 3-4 defensive end instead.   At least I would have signed Patterson as a college street free agent.

Willie Gaston is the most intriguing college street free agent signed by the Ravens.  He is an turnover waiting to happen.  Gaston has excellent cover skills but lacks speed.  Therefore, safety is probably his better NFL position, rather than cornerback.  However, he could be best as a dime back since he can cover and can play the ball.  Johnson played free safety in college and is a very good special teams player (3 punts blocked and was a return man).  Jones played end in college but will have to bulk up to play there in the Ravens 3-4.  He could be tried at outside linebacker. His strength is rushing the passer.  Leeson was one of the best long snappers in college.  He could stick in that role for the Ravens.  Martin led his team in tackles and comes from a school (San Diego State) that has had success recently with linebackers in the NFL (Morrison- Oakland, and Keaiho who is being counted on to start for Indy).  Running back Pruitt Jr. is worth a look on bloodlines alone (Greg Pruitt's kid).  It doesn't hurt that he has good s[peed and is a strong kid.

red indicates workout number in top range at position in draft

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
GRUBBS BEN AUBURN OG 6'2.6" 311 35 5.10 1.65 2.95 4.72   7.70 26.5" 8'7"
Grubbs is a strong, quick guard with good feet who is a terrific run blocker and steady pass blocker.  While Grubbs has good strength he needs to become more physical on the field.  He is the type of player a team will start in year one and not have to worry about his position until his rookie contract is up.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
FIGURS YAMON KANSAS ST 5'11.2" 174      4.30  1.47 2.49 4.21   6.85    10'6"
He was the best player in the Hula Bowl.  He is an explosive playmaker as both a receiver and return man.  He is very fast, quick, and stops and cuts on a dime.  He got open deep, showed good hands catching the ball, and ran well on a reverse.  Figurs should be an excellent slot receiver and return man in the NFL.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
YANDA MARSHAL IOWA OT/OG 6'3.7" 307 23 5.15 1.69 2.88 4.58   7.36 27" 8'5"

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

Some think Yanda may be better as a guard because he is a good run blocker and, it was thought he was limited athletically. His workout showed he can play tackle in the NFL (right tackle), although he will need to hit the weight room whether he plays tackle or guard.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
BARNES ANTWAN FLORIDA INT OLB/DE 6'0.5" 240 31 4.40 1.50 2.56 4.32   7.29 35" 10'2"
Barnes is one of the few college players who comes to the NFL with experience playing a rush linebacker in a 3-4 defense.  He is a good kid who had an amazing 38 tackles for loss his last two seasons in college.  Barnes has superb speed for his size, is a very good athlete and can really get after the quarterback.  He is an intriguing prospect for a team that plays a 3-4 defense.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
MCCLAIN LERON ALABAMA FB 6'1.1" 256 15 4.75 1.64 2.76 4.47   7.08 29.5" 9'7"
McClain is one of the best blocking fullback in the draft.  His value on offense, however, will be fairly limited, although he has decent receiving skills.  Teams that use fullbacks primarily for blocking could find McClain tempting on day two.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
SMITH TROY OHIO ST QB 6'0" 222   4.72 1.60 2.73 4.23   6.93 36.5" 10'2"
Smith has had as bad a post-season as any player in the draft.  He has fallen from round two to day two.  While he has good athleticism, Smith is short for a NFL quarterback, and had problems with accuracy at the Senior Bowl and Combine.  His upside appears to be as a backup quarterback, but even that is now in doubt.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3
 CONE
VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
BURGESS PRESCOTT MICHIGAN OLB 6'3.3" 240 19 4.77 1.62 2.75 4.31   7.01 32.5" 9'2"
Burgess is a converted safety who may not have the speed and quickness to be a starter in the NFL.  However, he can be a good special teams player and could find a home as a backup SAM in the 4-3, or, maybe, be moved inside in a 3-4 where his lack of speed will not be as musch of a factor.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
GASTON WILLIE HOUSTON DC/FS 5'10" 188   4.64              

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

Gaston played corner for Houston, but does not possess the speed needed to be starter at that position.  He does have superb cover skills, a nose for the ball, football smarts, and excellent football instincts.  He could be a solid NFL free safety, one who could do a good job in coverage when called upon, and one who could come up with turnovers.  Gaston will be drafted late, but could be a pleasant surprise for the team that drafts him.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
JOHNSON DONNIE PENN ST FS 5'11" 208                  
Johnson is a good special teams player.  He blocked 3 punts in college and was a kick returner.  He could force his way on a roster with his special teams play.  He needs some work at safety.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
JONES EDGAR SE MISS ST DE/OLB 6'3" 263                  
Jones, a 1-AA All American, is a pass rush specialist.  He had 12 sacks his senior year.  He should get a look in camp.

COMBINE
YES

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
LEESON NICK VIRGINIA TECH LS/LB 6'1.4" 255 21 5.08 1.68 2.90 4.15   7.32 28.5" 8'3"
Leeson is one of the best long snappers in college.  In fact, he was one of the first two long snappers ever invited to the Senior Bowl.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
MARTIN JOE SAN DIEGO ST ILB/OLB 6'2" 230                  
Martin, who followed Kirk Morrison and Freddy Keiaho, at san Diego State, led his team in tackles and is worth a look in camp as a potential backup inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense.

COMBINE
NO

 

COLLEGE

POS HGHT WGHT BENCH 40 10 20 SHORT
SHUTTLE
LONG
SHUTTLE
3 CONE VERTICAL
JUMP
BROAD
JUMP
PRUITT, JR GREG NOR CAR CENTRAL DC/FS 5'8.3" 210 19 4.47 1.54 2.64       34.5" 9'9"
Pruitt is the son of former NFL running back Greg Pruitt, and is worth a look on bloodlines alone.  The fact that he's a strong kid who has good speed doesn't hurt either.

 

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

QB McNair is now just above average.  Boller needs to go elsewhere for a start fresh.
RB Lewis is no longer a threat to go the distance.  He should be replaced.
WR Clayton is a future star.  Mason is still solid.  I like Williams' potential.
TE Heap and Wilcox are just fine.
OL Pashos is an UFA and will need to be replaced if he leaves.
DL A top starting unit, depth couldn't hurt.
LB Thomas is an UFA and will need to be replaced.
DB Good starters, good nickel.  A backup safety is about all that is needed.
ST Fine unit if Sams comes back healthy.

 

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

Baltimore
Rd Sel# Player Pos. Ht. Wt. School Jay's ranking Jay's draft value
1 12 Ngata, Haloti DT 6-4