TE Devin Mahina:
Scouting Reports:
BYU Profile Page: http://byucougars.com/athlete/m-football/devin-mahina
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=70752&draftyear=2015&genpos=TE
Senior Bowl Profile Page: http://www.seniorbowl.com/player-view.php?p=498&squad=South
Articles:
Looking at tight end prospects for Lions in 2015 draft (Devin Mahina, BYU (6-6, 251): He's the No. 13 tight end and the No. 215 prospect on the board. He has things to learn as a blocker and as a pass-catcher but could be a sneaky pick if he's there in the seventh round. He's also married -- remember the Lions' 2014 draft -- and comes from BYU, a school where the Lions have taken players the past two drafts. If Detroit took him in the seventh round or made him a UDFA, it would be a good pickup.) (4-14-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16529/looking-at-tight-end-prospects-for-the-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
What we learned from Friday's pro days ( Mahina has the best shot of any of the Cougars to get drafted and had a solid outing with a 40-yard dash in the unofficial 4.7 to 4.8 range and a good day going through drills.) (3-27-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481965/article/dawson-rebuilds-stock-collins-flashes-during-fridays-pro-days
Local players in the Senior Bowl (BYU tight end Devin Mahina also started for the South, though he did not record any statistics. He nearly had a catch with just over a minute in the contest but could not haul in the pass from Alabama quarterback Blake Sims. Mahina was a late roster addition to the Senior Bowl after he had a strong performance at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl the week prior.) (1-24-15): http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865620332/Utah-defensive-end-Nate-Orchard-leads-locals-at-Senior-Bowl.html?pg=all
10 Thursday Observations (Mehina lost his balance after cutting hard on a down-and-out pattern (starting from the middle) ... but recovered in time to snag Garrett Grayson's laser pass. Mehina, who caught 20 balls for 244 yards and three TDs this season, was so overjoyed by the awkward-turned-pretty TD reception ... that he wildly spiked the ball, before jogging back to the line of scrimmage and getting playfully razzed by teammates.) (1-22-15): http://www.foxsports.com/south/story/senior-bowl-10-thursday-observations-about-the-south-squad-012215
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Thursday South Practice Notes (BYU’s Devin Mahina doesn’t threaten defenses vertically whatsoever, but did use his big body to position and shield off safeties during one-on-one drills. He looks like a third tight end that can serve as an underneath outlet and develop into a blocking reserve tight end.) (1-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-thursday-south-practice-notes.html
Mahina suffered a lower leg injury (1-21-15): https://twitter.com/LukeEasterling/status/557996388269559808
Mahina leads local in NFLPA Collegiate Bowl (1-17-15): http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865619893/BYU-tight-end-Devin-Mahina-leads-locals-in-NFLPA-Collegiate-Bowl.html?pg=all
Mahina saves the best for last (11-20-14): http://www.sltrib.com/sports/1851596-155/byu-football-tight-end-devin-mahina
Mahina eager to prove last week's 2 TD effort wasn't a fluke (10-13-14): http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865613057/BYU-tight-end-Devin-Mahina-eager-to-prove-last-weeks-2-touchdown-effort-wasnt-a-fluke.html?pg=all
TE Jimmay Mundine:
Scouting Reports:
Kansas profile page: http://www.kuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=3601
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=110744&draftyear=2015&genpos=FB
Articles:
2015 NFL Draft: No combine? No problem for these draftable prospects (Jimmay Mundine, Kansas (6-1, 237, 4.66): A prospect who looks more like a thick wide receiver than traditional fullback, Mundine relied on natural athleticism most of his career and little else, but the light bulb turned on for him before his senior season, improving his intensity and workout routine. While still unpolished in areas, he has the raw athleticism and versatile skill set worth developing as a "move" tight end or H-back.) (4-16-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25151389/nfl-draft-no-combine-no-problem-for-these-draftable-prospects
Kansas Pro Day (Jimmay Mundine, the underrated move tight end/H-back, measured 6-1 5/8, 240 pounds, touched 38 inches in the vertical and 10-1 inthe broad jump. He also completed 20 reps on the bench. Still waiting on a 40 time.) (3-25-15): http://walterfootball.com/proday.php
King, Mundine and McDonald Help Lead Wranglers to 10-7 in College Gridiron Showcase (Mundine, who lined up at fullback instead of his normal tight end position, caught one pass for 12 yards. Mundine also enjoyed the week and had a chance to run drills as both a tight end and in a newly suggested position of fullback. "I think I showed them that I could block, as far as understanding what to do and being comfortable in the backfield as opposed to lining up next to a tackle on the line," said Mundine, who only saw action in the first half of the game due to a minor ankle injury. "I showed people I can come out of the backfield and catch the ball. It was great for exposure. I got to talk to scouts and hear their feedback, which was very helpful." Mundine concluded the 2014 season leading KU in receptions with 45, and receiving yards with 584. He also finished his career as a Jayhawk with the most touchdown receptions by a tight end with 11 scoring catches. The Denison, Texas native was honored as a John Mackey Award semifinalist as one of the top-six tight ends in the nation at the conclusion of the year. At season's end, Mundine also earned an All-Big 12 Second Team nod by conference coaches, 247sports.com, ESPN.com, the Associated Press and Phil Steele Magazine.) (2-1-15): http://www.kuathletics.com/news/2015/1/31/FB_0131150455.aspx
2015 NFL Draft: College Gridiron Showcase practice report (Kansas' leading receiver this past season, FB Jimmy Mundine (6-2, 237) displayed his receiving skills during drills on Tuesday with the body control and hand-eye coordination to secure catches away from his body. He played a hybrid tight end role for the Jayhawks and projects best as an undersized “move” tight end or H-back at the next level.) (1-27-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25000654/nfl-draft-college-gridiron-showcase-practice-report
Five KU football seniors deserve mention (A big-play threat and possession receiver, Mundine was a much bigger part of KU’s passing game than Bibbs was Iowa State’s, except in the red zone, where Bibbs came up huge for the last-place Cyclones. Mundine, who did a great job of getting open and unlike last year caught everything thrown his way, took off once Michael Cummings took over at quarterback midway through the West Virginia game. Mundine had 22.1 percent of his team’s receptions, Bibbs 16.9 percent. Mundine had 24 percent of his team’s receiving yards, Bibbs 13.5 percent of his team’s. Bibbs had 38.1 percent of his team’s TD catches, Mundine 21.4 percent of his team’s. Mundine’s total reception yardage was higher than anyone on KU’s or Iowa State’s roster. Bibbs ranked a distant third on his team in that category. Mundine had an even more positive influence on KU than Bibbs did on ISU. My vote goes to Mundine.) (12-7-14): http://www2.kusports.com/news/2014/dec/07/column-five-ku-football-seniors-deserve-mention/
Kansas has been competitive more often than not under Bowen (Kansas' Jimmay Mundine recently was named a semifinalist for the Mackey Award for the nation's best tight end. He caught seven passes for 137 yards and a touchdown last Saturday against TCU, the most receiving yards in a game for a Kansas tight end since 1974. His season total of 537 yards receiving are the most for a tight end on a 'Power 5' conference team. "It proves that you can come to Kansas and still be a well-known -- in this case, a nationally known player if you go out and make plays and do the things you're supposed to do," Bowen said. "It just points out that Kansas football is relevant in the college landscape.") (11-21-14): http://www.foxsports.com/kansas-city/story/kansas-has-been-competitive-more-often-than-not-under-bowen-112114
Tight end Jimmay Mundine on target for KU in loss (11-15-14): http://cjonline.com/sports/2014-11-15/tight-end-jimmay-mundine-target-ku-loss
Kansas Student-Athlete Spotlight: Jimmay Mundine (11-13-14): http://www.big12sports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209762896
Senior tight end Jimmay Mundine stepping up for Jayhawks (10-29-14): http://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article3434585.html
Tight end Jimmay Mundine has touchdown catches in 4 straight games for struggling Jayhawks (10-4-14): http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2013/10/24/tight-end-jimmay-mundine-has-touchdown-catches-in-4-straight-games-for/
Kansas Mundine a threat at TE (9-30-14): http://www.charlestondailymail.com/article/20140930/DM03/140939899
Kansas’ Mundine a threat at tight end
Kansas’ Mundine a threat at tight end
Mundine, Cozart find comfort zone against Central Michigan (9-21-15): http://cjonline.com/sports/2014-09-21/mundine-cozart-find-comfort-zone-against-central-michigan
Mundine is KU's early injury victim in camp (On Tuesday, KU revealed that senior tight end Jimmay Mundine will be out two weeks after undergoing a “minor” procedure to repair and clean out an injured knee. Mundine, the presumptive starter, is expected to be ready for Kansas’ opener against Southeast Missouri State on Sept. 6.)
(8-20-14): http://www.kansas.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article1207926.html
Drop-plagued TE Jimmay Mundine heeds coach’s call: ‘Catch the ball’ (8-2-14): http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2014/aug/02/drop-plagued-ku-te-jimmay-mundine-heeds-coachs-cal/
Most Crucial Jayhawks: No. 16 - TE Jimmay Mundine (7-11-14): http://www2.kusports.com/weblogs/tale-tait/2014/jul/11/most-crucial-jayhawks-no-16-te-jimmay-mu_________________/
TE Clive Walford:
Scouting Reports:
Miami Profile Page: http://www.hurricanesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205679087
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/clive-walford?id=2552397
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1759387/clive-walford
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=113368&draftyear=2015&genpos=te
Path to the Draft: http://www.nfl.com/labs/rr/pathtothedraft/walford
Articles:
NFL draft WR preview: Could 2015 class surpass historic 2014 crop? Maybe (Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.): Height: 6-4. Weight: 251. Scouting report: He may be a Hurricane, but Walford isn't the next coming of Shockey, Greg Olsen, Kellen Winslow II or Jimmy Graham. Still, he's likely only trailing Williams in a thin group and is a capable combo tight end who can pick up some first downs through the air and create more by virtue of his superior blocking. Projected round: Second/third.) (4-28-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/28/wide-receiver-preview-devante-parker-kevin-white-amari-cooper-cris-collinsworth/26505289/
Greg Cosell's draft preview: Dorial Green-Beckham is a huge wild card (Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.) (TE): If you want more of a combination blocker-receiver at tight end, Walford checks both boxes. He is a willing blocker in the run game, and effective as a strong-side run blocker. In the passing game I think he's a little more advanced and refined as a route runner than Williams, with deceptive quickness coming out of breaks. Walford is a little quicker as a route runner in and out of breaks than Williams, and worked the middle of the field effectively. He is not as fast a straight line accelerator as Williams. But Walford will fit some NFL teams more than Williams because of his more extensive experience as a run blocker and his ability to work effectively in the middle of the field in the pass game. He has the combination skills and alignment versatility to be a starting tight end in the NFL.) (4-26-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-draft-preview--dorial-green-beckham-is-a-huge-wild-card-181904431.html
Walford is latest tight end draft prospect to turn off teams with attitude (4-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488180/article/zierlein-top-2015-draft-tight-end-prospects-turning-teams-off
CFF Overview: TE – Top of the Crop (Clive Walford, Miami: The Miami product finished the season as our highest-graded tight end in the passing game, both overall and among draft-eligible players. He had exceptional production playing in a Power 5 conference, catching 77.2% of his targets and gaining 675 yards (first in the class). His eight forced missed tackles ranked in the Top 5 and he gained a first down or touchdown on 32 of 44 receptions. As we highlighted in our look at the TE Signature Stats, Walford was fairly dominant in some of our per-snap metrics, including Yards per Route Run. His 3.26 overall YPPR was far ahead of second place and also bested Rob Gronkowski’s NFL-leading 2.53 mark by a wide margin. He was even better in that category in games against Power 5 opponents. With two drops during the regular season (he had a third in the Senior Bowl at 1Q 3:10), he had one of the best drop rates at 4.35%. Of the players with a better rate, only FSU’s Nick O’Leary saw more targets than Walford’s 57. One of the negatives watching him is that he often looked like a different athlete with the ball in his hands than while running routes. He still had plays of impressive separation and avoiding contact getting into his route, including against Florida State (2Q, 11:48) and North Carolina (2Q, 5:23). He also showed the ability to extend away from his body and makes catches in traffic (Nebraska 2Q 13:57, UNC 2Q 5:23), though there were some occasional body catches. As a blocker, Walford graded positively, but ranked 35th in the run game, particularly struggling against Louisville, Nebraska, and UNC. He pulled to the backside often, either sealing or cutting to open up cutback lanes, and generally fared better blocking in space vs in-line (Virginia 3Q 7:25). There were impressive flashes (VT 4Q, 13:13), but overall he wasn’t quite as aggressive in run blocking as you’d like to see. Signature Stat: Walford spent 40 snaps in pass protection last season (including Senior Bowl) and allowed just one pressure.) (4-23-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/04/24/cff-overview-te-top-of-the-crop/
Lions draft preview: College changes safety prospects (2. Clive Walford, Miami: The 6-foot-4, 251-pound Walford was an impact player for the Hurricanes the last three years, especially as a senior with 44 catches for 676 yards and seven touchdowns. He was the best tight end by far at the Senior Bowl and is an adequate NFL athlete, with a 35-inch vertical and 120-inch broad jump. He doesn’t run great routes, but he’s a mismatch who can block and will probably go in Round 3.) (4-23-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/23/lions-draft-preview-college-changes-safety-prospects/26262969/
2015 draft positional overviews: WRs, TEs (Biggest upside: Miami's Clive Walford. Minnesota's Maxx Williams generally is considered the best tight end in this class and the only player at the position with a chance to go in the first round. But Walford is the most explosive tight end in this class, and that gives him the most upside. He only played one year of varsity football in high school, and he still is learning the nuances of the position. But he has good size (6-4, 251) and has the speed to get deep. He is a willing blocker and has improved in that facet of his game. He has had consistency issues, but that negative aspect showed signs of going away in 2014. Miami coaches moved him around -- he saw time as a "regular" tight end, in the slot and in an H-back role -- and that versatility adds to his value.) (4-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486838/article/2015-nfl-draft-positional-overviews-wide-receivers-tight-ends
Draft Prospecting: Miami Hurricanes (Clive Walford--before you even get to his game, how about the classically awesome name for Miami’s tight end?! The first time I heard it I thought he was some long-lost guitarist for Iron Maiden, or the Governor General of Tasmania. To my pleasure, I discovered Walford is actually a very impressive tight end with a bright NFL future. Where Walford stands out is his ability to do everything asked of a tight end. Need a physical inline presence to seal the edge on a stretch run? Walford can do that. Want your tight end to motion across the formation and torch the SAM backer on an out route? Walford can do that. Looking for a flexed-out slot presence who can attack the seam? Walford can do that. Need a heavy-handed pseudo extra tackle to help in pass protection? Walford can do that too. He’s a bit of a throwback in that he is a general “tight end” instead of a more specialized piece like so many in the NFL today. The problem for Walford is that very few offenses deploy the old school concept anymore. He will need to find one role at which he excels early on. Others are going to be faster, or bigger (he’s 6’4” and 251 lbs.), or more natural receivers (drops have plagued Walford, including a gimmie TD vs. Florida State). While he’s shown he has good build-up speed, he lacks the immediacy of a Jason Witten or Vernon Davis off the line, and he’s not a sticky-handed widebody in traffic like Gronk or Antonio Gates……which means his hat will likely be a hard one labeled “blocking”. Fortunately, he can be a major asset as a play-action weapon a la Heath Miller. Or if the defense adds an extra linebacker, he can flex out and create a mismatch in space. Because he gives great effort and has just enough of every quality, Walford can be a very useful piece to an offense. To me, he’s a tougher version of Coby Fleener with emerging upside as a downfield target. In a putrid tight end class, teams in need will value him as a second-round pick. He might not produce to that expectation immediately, but he should prove worthy with his all-around game. Current projection: 50-75 overall pick.) (4-20-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2610/Draft-Prospecting-Miami-Hurricanes
O'HARA'S DRAFT PREVIEW: Wide receivers and tight ends (TE Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.): Walford was a late participant in football, playing basketball until his senior year in high school. As a fifth-year senior, 2014 was his best season – 44 catches, 676 yards, 7 TDs.) (4-20-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-DRAFT-PREVIEW-Wide-receivers-and-tight-ends/da38b7ca-348e-4e60-82d3-1914e8045b57
NFP Prospect Focus: Clive Walford and Nick O’Leary (Clive Walford – TE – Miami: This year’s NFL draft is not full of quality depth at the tight end position. Still, there are a few that will come in and play and turn out to be very productive NFL players. One of those players is Miami tight end Clive Walford. At the Combine, Walford tested out as one of the more athletic tight ends in the group. He has good size for the position at 6’4 – 251. He didn’t show great speed, timing only 4.79, but his explosion (10’ standing long jump) and quickness were evident. He timed 4.57 in the 20 yard shuttle and 7.32 in the 3-cone which are good times for a player his size. At the Miami pro day a week ago, Walford chose not to run again, as he was bothered by a tight hamstring. All he did was run routes and, by all reports, looked smooth. Walford plays with good strength and power. He is a willing blocker and shows some pop when in-line blocking. He is an excellent blocker on the move. He needs to show a bit more explosiveness through his hips to become a top NFL blocker. As a route runner, he shows good route running ability, showing that he can break down going into cuts and has a nice burst coming out of cuts to get separation. In the Miami offense, he is used mainly as a short and medium range receiver, but he has the skills to get deep, which he showed at the Senior Bowl. Walford can be effective at either “Y” or as a move tight end. Like most coming out of college, he needs to get a little bigger and stronger but the natural traits are there. I see him being the second tight end drafted and he should go somewhere in the second round.) (4-11-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-clive-walford-and-nick-oleary/
Thin class of tight ends offers a few hidden gems (2. Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.): Walford has the potential to be a very good NFL tight end, but probably not a great tight end, which is why his name may not be called during day one of the draft. In round two and beyond, though, Walford will fit the profile for what teams want: a possible starter who could develop into a long-term answer. The 6'4", 263-pounder blocks well, catches passes out of various alignments and can be a threat in the red zone. Walford's self-scouting report: A dominant player. A dual-threat tight end. A competitor. Will to win. I play with my heart, so they’re going to get somebody who will lay it on the line every down." If even half of that is accurate of Walford as an NFL player, he'll be a nice piece for whichever teams lands him. Draft projection: Mid- to late second round.) (4-8-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/08/2015-nfl-draft-tight-end-rankings-maxx-williams-clive-walford
2015 NFL Draft: TE Ranking (2/61. Clive Walford, Miami (Fla.), 6-4, 251, 4.70, 2: --Medic!:After showing constant improvement while playing 37 consecutive games at Miami, Walford injured his knee in the 2014 regular-season finale against Pitt. He underwent surgery and, somewhat surprisingly, took part in the Senior Bowl in January, but admitted he was far from 100 percent. Despite the injury, Walford's final season was his most productive as he caught 44 passes for 676 yards and seven touchdowns. Walford, a star basketball player in high school, improved year after year in college and last season played faster and with more confidence as a receiver. He also matured into a team leader and is now engaged and raising a son. --Measuring up: Walford's combine results show that he is has excellent size, but is a good, not great, athlete. He measured exactly 6-foot-4 inches tall with a wingspan that offers quarterbacks a target area of 81 1/8th inches, with big hands (10.25 inches) to grab the ball. He ran 40 yards in 4.79 seconds (10 in 1.72), had a vertical jump of 35 inches, a broad jump of 10 feet and benched 225 pounds 20 times. --Notable quote: "A dominant player. A dual-threat tight end. A competitor. A will to win. I play with my heart, so they're going to get somebody who will lay it on the line every down." -- Walford at combine, when asked what he offers an NFL team. --Frankly: Walford can do a lot of things well, but despite his self-appraisal, does not appear to be somebody who can dominate in the NFL either as a receiver or blocker. He looks like a good possession receiver, but the medics should check that knee that was repaired at the end of last season.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
Basketball player turned tight end worked out at Miami's pro day (Tight end Clive Walford (6-4 1/8, 250) had a pulled left hamstring, so he didn't perform any of the runs or the jumps. He did run pass routes, and looked very good catching the ball.) (4-6-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483659/article/converted-hoops-player-akpejiori-works-out-at-miamis-pro-day
Phillip Dorsett clocks a blistering 4.2 40-yard dash at Miami pro day (Widely considered the No. 2 tight end in this draft class behind Maxx Williams, tight end Clive Walford didn't run in the 40-yard dash due to a tender hamstring, but he performed well catching the ball.) (4-2-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25131794/phillip-dorsett-clocks-a-blistering-42-40-yard-dash-at-miami-pro-day
2015 NFL Draft: Lance Zierlein's top 10 tight end prospects (2. Clive Walford, Miami: Zierlein's bottom line: A combo tight end who can help a team in the running game and through the air, Walford can be moved around the field. He lacks the elite athletic traits to be a game-changer at the position, but he is becoming a premium blocker. With teams looking for versatile tight ends to create matchups in two-TE sets, Walford's stock should be high.) (3-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479892/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-tight-ends
NFL Draft Preview 2015: TE Clive Walford (3-5-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfl-draft-preview-2015-te-clive-walford/
TE 2015 NFL Combine Stock Report (The tight ends at this year's Combine were a bit underwhelming. Clive Walford was an exception. He managed the fourth-fastest 40 time among tight ends with a 4.79 despite weighing in at 251. He also displayed nice hands in the field drills, so he definitely helped his cause to be a second-day pick.) (2-24-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015stockTE.php
21 prospect takeaways from Combine (Still no separation at tight end: Maxx Williams and Clive Walford were expected to be the top two tight ends, but neither seemed to separate from the other. Both had relatively disappointing days of testing, especially when it came to the 40; they ran slower than expected, and only Williams was able to flash during pass-catching drills.) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473788/article/21-prospect-takeaways-from-2015-nfl-scouting-combine
Buzz worthy and buzz kill players from Saturday at the Combine (Walford is one of the buzz-kill players. After being hailed as one of the most explosive tight ends in the draft, Walford didn't wow scouts with his workout performance on Friday. The 6-4, 251-pound pass catcher clocked a rather pedestrian 4.79 40 time and failed to look dynamic or sudden in drills. Although Walford's numbers in the vertical jump (35 inches) and broad jump (10 feet even) suggest that he is a capable athlete, I didn't see a prospect with the kind of quick-twitch traits to create matchup problems on the perimeter.) (2-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472703/article/lael-collins-maxx-williams-among-early-stars-of-nfl-combine
TE Combine Field Drills Recap (Miami's Clive Walford doesn't have elite speed, but he has soft hands, and that was visible in the field work. Walford had the fourth-fastest 40 time at 4.79 seconds, officially. He did a nice job of running routes and catching passes in the field drills. After the Combine and a great Senior Bowl, Walford looks like a solid third-round pick.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutTE.php
TE Combine Bench Press Analysis (Miami tight end Clive Walford recorded 20 reps. Walford (6-4, 251) has a thick build, and I thought he would have produced a higher total in the mid-20s.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchTE.php
Walford's Combine Results (Height: 6-4, Weight: 251, Arm Length: 34 10 1/4, 40yd Dash: 4.79, Bench Press: 20, Vertical: 30.5): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25075776/nfl-combine-results-tight-ends-and-offensive-linemen
Walford met with the Lions at the Combine (Walford dominated Senior Bowl practices, especially in red-zone drills. “I have a great ability to jump,” Walford said. “In the red zone, I use my body and my jumping ability to go up over the top of defenders and grab the ball. I am the best tight end in this draft because I can block, I can catch, I can run after the catch, do everything that a tight end is expected to do.” Walford, who caught 121 career passes and scored 14 touchdowns, also had combine meetings with the Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. There are some questions about his consistency, though. Walford also showed he was healthy at the Senior Bowl after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on his right meniscus. "It was very important because I was told that people thought I tore my medial collateral ligament, which I didn't," Walford said. "I just had a scope on my right meniscus. I just wanted to go out and show everybody that I was healthy.") (2-18-15): http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/ravens-insider/bal-ravens-meet-with-tight-ends-maxx-williams-clive-walford-at-scouting-combine-20150219-story.html
TE Weigh-In Analysis (Miami tight end Clive Walford (6-4, 251) stayed consistent with his Senior Bowl weigh-in. Walford had an excellent Senior Bowl week to send a charge into his draft stock. Walford has surprising athleticism, so he could continue his upward climb with a strong performance at the Combine.) (2-18-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinTE.php
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: WRs/TEs to watch (NFL Media analyst Mike Mayock calls Walford "the most explosive tight end in this year's draft." He definitely is a receiver-first tight end, and while his blocking needs a bit of work, his skills as a pass catcher make him a good fit in today's NFL. He looks to have the versatility and speed to be a threat to be used all over a formation. He can further show that with his combine workouts. (Walford is part of College Football 24/7's "Path to the Draft" series.) (2-11-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000469391/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-wide-receivers-tight-ends-to-watch
Senior Bowl Review: Offense (Walford dominated the slot and seam this week in 7 on 7s and team activities. I like Walford quite a bit, especially in the third-round range. He’ll have a great argument for being the second prospect at his position off the board.) (1-28-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51877/351/senior-bowl-review-offense?pg=2
Winners and losers from Senior Bowl (There wasn't a player in Mobile who drew more praise during the practice week than Walford. Although he had an ugly-looking drop in the game on Saturday, he had already established himself as one of the 2015 draft's elite tight ends well before the game kicked off. He was smooth as a route-runner and caught passes in traffic. He was an effective blocker as well.) (1-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000463448/article/winners-and-losers-from-the-2015-senior-bowlwinners-and-losers-from-the-2015-senior-bowl
Senior Bowl Rules of Thumb (Walford got a thumbs up. In a very uninspiring tight end class, Miami-FL’s Clive Walford earned himself a lot of money with a consistently great Senior Bowl week. His athleticism showed far more than it did in the constrained Hurricanes offense. Walford proved adept at releasing down the seam and presenting himself as a big and reliable target. He also made a couple of excellent open-field blocks in team drills on Wednesday which opened some eyes about his well-rounded game. His Miami tape says nothing more than a 5th round player, but perhaps he was just misfit or misused in college. He sure looks capable of doing a lot more at the NFL level, and it’s hard to see him falling below the first few picks of the third round in a class where only Minnesota’s Maxx Williams is ahead of him at tight end.) (1-25-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2592/Senior-Bowl-Rules-Of-Thumb
Recapping the Senior Bowl (Walford made the All Senior Bowl Team. Walford absolutely raised his stock. Between his run blocking and aggressiveness as a receiver, he may have sealed up a Day 2 selection.)(1-24-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/01/24/senior-bowl-recap
10 Senior Bowl Standouts (No matter who was covering Walford this week, the tight end was making plays. Many people think he's the top tight end in this draft, and he showed why this week. He's excellent getting off the line of scrimmage and runs routes well. Walford showed off an arsenal of subtle fakes that leave defenders hanging in coverage, which allows him to gain a step and run. At 6-4, 258, I think he's big enough to handle blocking in-line. Walford has a chance to be a complete tight end.) (1-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462487/article/washingtons-danny-shelton-among-10-senior-bowl-standouts
Senior Bowl Day 3 Risers (Clive Walford/TE/Miami – There was a lot to like about Walford's performance the past two days. He's been very consistent as both a blocker and pass catcher, handling defenders at the line of scrimmage as well as making receptions down the seam. He's not a true vertical threat rather Walford possesses the skills necessary to be dependable in all areas of the tight end position for years to come.) (1-26-15): http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Senior-Bowl-Paulines-Day-3-Risers/263499b2-483f-4e00-8daf-263e69383645
Walterfootball Thursday South Practice Report (Miami tight end Clive Walford has had a strong week, and he finished it well despite a dropped touchdown. He was superb in the red zone one-on-ones, as he beat a number of defenders. In the 2-minute drill, he had a gain for at least 20 yards on a pass from Grayson after Walford got open down the seam. He is a mismatch weapon, and Walford gave his draft stock a real boost this week.) (1-23-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice7.php
2015 Senior Bowl: Hurricane watch during South Practice (A prospect who stole the show during South practice, Walford routinely drew praise from the Jaguars coaching staff for his routes, athleticism and ability to finish at the catch point. He has an easy release off the line of scrimmage with the route acceleration to threaten the seam and be a downfield target. Warford doesn't have an elite frame for the position, but he knows how to use his size to shield defenders from the ball and create mismatches down the field. Warford entered the week in contention to be the No. 1 senior tight end drafted and he's only helped his chances of that happening through two practices in Mobile. He has looked “as advertised” from his Miami game film.) (1-21-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24982663/senior-bowl-hurricane-watch-during-south-practice
10 Senior Bowl Standouts (Clive Walford, TE, Miami - No matter who was covering Walford this week, the tight end was making plays. Many people think he's the top tight end in this draft, and he showed why this week. He's excellent getting off the line of scrimmage and runs routes well. Walford showed off an arsenal of subtle fakes that leave defenders hanging in coverage, which allows him to gain a step and run. At 6-4, 258, I think he's big enough to handle blocking in-line. Walford has a chance to be a complete tight end.) (1-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462487/article/washingtons-danny-shelton-among-10-senior-bowl-standouts
Buzz worthy, buzz kill players from Day 3 of the Senior Bowl (Clive Walford, TE, Miami - Despite missing Miami's bowl game after having surgery for a knee injury, Walford suited up and played well at this week's practices. Several scouts believe he will be one of the top two tight ends off the board in this year's draft. Walford showed he's healthy and continues to gain momentum following an impressive regular season. Walford was adequate as a blocker and looked athletic this week.) (1-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462326/article/buzzworthy-buzzkill-players-from-day-3-at-the-senior-bowl
Walford among Day 2 standouts (A day after Miami teammate Phillip Dorsett earned rave reviews from everybody at Ladd-Pebbles Stadium, Wednesday marked Walford's turn to put on a show. He was easily the "wow" guy among the pass-catchers and did a solid job of blocking during team periods as well. He's a complete mismatch for all of the linebackers and safeties at the event, and showed why he could be the top guy at the position in the 2015 draft. "Clive was the best player out here all day. He's been great," NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah said. "He's such an athletic pass-catcher.") (1-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461702/article/miamis-clive-walford-among-day-2-standouts-at-senior-bowl
Senior Bowl: Wed South Notes (Biggest Winner: Miami TE Clive Walford. He was not my primary focus but every time I looked in his direction he was making something positive happen. Walford is physically impressive at 6’4” and 254 pounds, and he showed real burst off the line throughout the last two days. He made several catches that drew praise from the gathered scouting and NFL community. There is a major void in this draft at tight end behind Minnesota’s Maxx Williams, and Walford is doing a great job filling that void. He’s certainly making folks look back at his Hurricanes tape for longer looks.) (1-21-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2591/Senior-Bowl-Wed-South-Notes
2015 Senior Bowl: Wednesday South Practice Notes (Miami (FL) tight end Clive Walford had a strong day, and plays much bigger than his size would lead to believe. He had two touchdown catches where he went up, climbed the ladder, and snatched the ball high out of the air. He’s a smooth runner with good speed, and offers solid blocking for a zone-blocking scheme.) (1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-wednesday-south-practice-notes.html
Senior Bowl Wednesday South Practice Report (Walford was excellent on Wednesday. He got started when he juked UCLA safety Anthony Jefferson out of his jock to get open down the seam. On a double move, he burned Oklahoma outside linebacker Geneo Grissom and made a diving catch. Walford move the chains again during the team scrimmage. He is faster and more athletic than he looks with soft hands. In a weak tight end class, Walford could be solidifying himself and moving up as a second-day pick.) (1-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice3.php
Mayock: Walford most explosive TE in 2015 draft class (1-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461587/article/mayock-clive-walford-most-explosive-tight-end-in-2015-draft
Senior Bowl: Pauline's 20 to watch (Walford is another flying up draft boards around the internet but scouts are not as convinced. Is Walford truly a downfield pass catching threat? Can he outrun linebackers during Senior Bowl drills? Or is he nothing more than a No. 2 tight end for the next level?) (1-19-15): http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Senior-Bowl-Paulines-20-To-Watch/aaef3e25-9c9b-4850-89e1-6ba8aa98f2f1
Walford suffered a meniscus injury that required surgery and missed Miami's Bowl game (12-12-14): http://caneswatch.blog.palmbeachpost.com/2014/12/12/duke-johnson-undecided-on-nfl-draft-deon-bush-returning-to-um-clive-walford-out-for-bowl/
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: Miami's Clive Walford and Ben Koyack of Notre Dame are "head and shoulders" ahead of this year's crop of senior tight ends, but some evaluators are beginning to favor Walford. "Walford's knee injury doesn't bother me; he got in good shape this year and was just more confident in himself, which helped him cut down on the drops," said an NFC director of college scouting. "He's a way tougher player than Koyack." The skinny: Despite a right knee injury that will sideline him for Miami's bowl game and potentially the combine, Walford's draft stock is moving up. He saw his catches (44), touchdowns (7) and yards per catch (15.4) spike in 2014, and he had his biggest game against Florida State (4-127-1). Koyack might be the better athlete, but Walford has been more productive and "has the body and toughness to be the better blocker," according to the source.) (12-3-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000438326/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-nfl-prospects
Week 13 Risers and Sliders (He's picked as a slider. Clive Walford/TE/Miami-Fl: Admittedly I was never high on Walford entering the year and neither were NFL scouts who stamped him as a late rounder. Yet to his credit Walford continues to produce on the football field as both a pass catcher and blocker. His latest effort, 7 receptions for 105 yards during the loss to Virginia, was a season best. And as consistent as Walford has been catching the ball (4 receptions per game) his blocking has been even better. The senior lacks classic tight end measurables but has the skill set to slide into the later rounds then make the two deep at the next level.) (11-24-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10237
TE transformation: Walford becomes one of nation's best (11-19-14): http://caneswatch.blog.palmbeachpost.com/2014/11/17/tight-end-transformation-miamis-clive-walford-becomes-one-of-nations-best/
Week 12 Stock Report (Only one Miami player has ever won the Mackey Award as the nation's top tight end, Kellen Winslow Jr. in 2003. But Walford has a chance to join the former first round pick as he leads all ACC tight ends in receiving with 33 catches for 522 yards and seven scores in 2014. He showed off his skills against the Seminoles Saturday night, finishing the game with four catches and 127 yards – 61 of those yards coming on a touchdown catch-and-run in the second quarter. Walford displayed excellent route acceleration off the line of scrimmage with the ability to catch the ball in stride and create mismatches with his athleticism. He plucks well and can climb the ladder, giving him a large catching radius that scouts seek at the position. Walford has a lean lower body and needs refinement as a blocker, but his athletic traits and versatility are why he was my No. 1 senior tight end in the summer and nothing has changed that ranking now.) (11-18-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24818692/nfl-draft-week-12-stock-report-melvin-gordon-top-running-back
Week 4 Stock Report (Another tight end prospect who seems to be under-the-radar, senior TE Clive Walford leads the Hurricanes in receptions through four games and has been Mr. Reliable for Miami's freshman quarterback. He set career-bests on Saturday against Nebraska with seven catches for 80 yards and one touchdown. Walford doesn't play with much burst and lacks multiple gears to be dangerous after the catch, but he uses his frame well and secures the ball in contested situations. Whether he lines up inline, in the backfield or in the slot for the Hurricanes, Walford has shown he can be a dependable option on offense and projects as a third day NFL prospect.) (9-23-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24721530/nfl-draft-week-four-stock-report
2015 NFL Draft: Acc Prospect Rankings (Scouts are split on Clive Walford as the tight end receives everything from middle round to free agent grades. I’m of the latter opinion as while I think Walford is a solid prospect he does nothing exceptional. He’s not a great blocker nor a tight end that strikes fear based on the ability to make plays down the field.) (8-26-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9954
2015 NFL Draft: Miami (Walford caught 34 passes for 454 yards and two TDs as a junior, and will be the team's second-leading receiver returning from the 2013 season. Quick, athletic receiver with the ability to separate from linebackers down the seam, or line up wide and beat corners with his size and catch radius. Struggles as a blocker and has been plagued by drops in the past, but has the talent to be an explosive weapon at the next level.) (7-14-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24620026/nfl-draft-miami-fla
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