Saturday, April 30, 2022

Malcolm Rodriguez Grades and Analysis

Grades:

CBS (188. Lions: Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State Grade: A- .  One of my favorite LBs in this class. Former safety who plays like it. Deceptively efficient block-shedder. Awesome blitzer and has legit coverage ability. He will fight for playing time early and make an impact.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-grades-tracker-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection-from-sam-howell-to-kingsley-enagbare/

PFN (Round 6, Pick 188: Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State - Despite being on the smaller side at 5’11” and 232 pounds, Malcolm Rodriguez has been a statistical standout for the Cowboys with a gaudy amount of production. Dig below the numbers and the size discrimination, and you’ll find the Oklahoma State LB can play ball. He possesses great vision and discipline, and he’s not misled by offensive deception.  Rodriguez can trigger downhill with impressive speed while also showcasing impressive lateral agility to teleport from gap to gap. Plus, he’s adept at evading gaps. Size, shorter arms, and inconsistencies as a tackler have led to him flying under the national radar, but this is a great pickup for the Lions.  Grade: A-):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades-2022-aidan-hutchinson-stays-in-detroit/


Walter football (Detroit Lions: Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State - B+ Grade.
The Lions had tons of neds entering the 2022 NFL Draft, and linebacker was one of them. Malcolm Rodriguez was someone I had in the fifth- or sixth-round range, so this seems like another solid choice for Detroit.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php

Analysis:

NFL.com (Rodriguez:  Detroit will love Rodriguez's reliability as a tackler and for his special teams experience (500-plus snaps). Look for him to emerge as a core special-teamer with the ability to see the field often in sub-packages):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-3-rounds-4-5

ESPN Woodyard (Round 6, No. 188 overall: Malcolm Rodriguez, ILB, Oklahoma State - My take: Rodriguez has led the team in tackles over the past three seasons. He has also totaled 272 tackles since 2019, which are the fifth most in the FBS. Drafting a linebacker was one of the many needs of this roster after the Lions allowed more than 1,000 yards after contact last season.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38504/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2022-analysis-for-every-selection

ESPN (Pre-Draft Analysis - Rodriguez is a read-and-flow linebacker who has outstanding top-end speed and takes excellent angles in pursuit. He's a former safety who is on the smaller side for a linebacker prospect, and his lack of length shows up when he's forced to take on blockers in a phone booth. He's instinctive and rangy in coverage but has some tightness in his hips and struggles to change directions quickly in space. -- Steve Muench):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds/_/round/5
Posted by LionsFan at 9:13 PM 0 comments

James Mitchell Grades and Analysis

Grades:

Walter football (Detroit Lions: James Mitchell, TE, Virginia Tech - A- Grade
The Lions are concerned about not being able to retain T.J. Hockenson past the 2022 season, so this pick makes sense from that regard. It's also a solid value choice, as James Mitchell could've gone in the fourth round with no complaints.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php


PFN (Round 5, Pick 177: James Mitchell, TE, Virginia Tech - At some point, the Lions were going to target a tight end to file in behind T.J. Hockenson. Brock Wright is a decent depth piece but nothing more. A quality TE2 is still on the list for Detroit, and there’s a chance they got that with James Mitchell. There’s a bit of uncertainty with Mitchell, who played just two games in 2021 before suffering a season-ending knee injury. But Mitchell has good size at 6’4”, 248 pounds, with 33” arms. He’s a smooth athlete in space with good zone awareness, and he has some lead-blocking ability with his mobility and play strength.  Grade: B):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades-2022-aidan-hutchinson-stays-in-detroit/

CBS (177. Lions: James Mitchell, TE, Virginia Tech - Grade: C+.  Flashed early in his college career as useful, three-down H-back but injuries derailed his 2021. Good athleticism and catch radius. Decent after the catch too. Was still injured during pre-draft process.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-grades-tracker-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection-from-sam-howell-to-kingsley-enagbare/

Analysis:

NFL.com (James Mitchell:  T.J. Hockenson missed almost a third of last season due to injury, and there is poor depth behind him. Mitchell has the pass-catching ability and athleticism to see significant playing time early in an H-back role.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-3-rounds-4-5

ESPN Woodyard (Round 5, No. 177 overall: James Mitchell, TE, Virginia Tech
My take: T.J. Hockenson is clearly the Lions’ marquee tight end and one of the best offensive players on the roster, but Detroit has added depth to the position with Mitchell. He is coming off an injury to the ACL in his right knee, and he only played two games in 2021. But he expects to be fully cleared by training camp.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38504/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2022-analysis-for-every-selection

ESPN (Pre-Draft Analysis:  Mitchell is an effective route runner with good quickness off the line and out of breaks. He shows good body control and hand-eye coordination adjusting to throws outside of his frame. He runs well and tracks the deep ball well. He's a willing and aggressive blocker, but he has a leaner frame and lacks snap in his hands. Mitchell missed most of the 2021 season because of a knee injury. -- Steve Muench):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds/_/round/5
Posted by LionsFan at 9:13 PM 0 comments

James Houston Grades and Analysis

Grades:

PFN (Round 6, Pick 217: James Houston, LB, Jackson State - The Lions got their off-ball linebacker a little bit earlier with Oklahoma State’s Malcolm Rodriguez. Now, they come back in the late sixth and add an on-ball linebacker in James Houston from Jackson State. Houston stands around 6’0”, 244 pounds, but he has massive arms over 34”, and he also has searing explosiveness off the line – emphasized by a 39” vertical.  Houston profiles as a 3-4 pass-rushing OLB. And for the Lions, who have odd-front personnel, he can come in as a stand-up edge rusher on passing downs. Houston found success in this role at Jackson State, with 16.5 sacks and 24.5 tackles for loss this past year. He’s a relentless speed rusher who capitalizes on his traits.  Grade: A): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades-2022-aidan-hutchinson-stays-in-detroit/

Walter football (Detroit Lions: James Houston, DE/OLB, Jackson State - A- Grade.
The Lions know they need as many pass rushers as possible to consistently beat Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins. James Houston is a quality edge rusher I mocked in the fifth round, so I like this value Detroit is getting toward the end of the sixth frame.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php


CBS (217. Lions: James Houston, LB, Jackson State Grade: C.  All-hustle outside speed rusher with size/length limitations. Bend is there, too. Was very productive at the FCS level. Development type worth a roll of the dice this late in the draft.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-grades-tracker-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection-from-sam-howell-to-kingsley-enagbare/

Analysis:

NFL.com (Houston:  Detroit is building up its defensive front with youth and a pass rush. While raw, Houston could emerge as a surprise in camp with his natural ability to uncoil and chase down QBs.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-pick-by-pick-analysis-for-day-3-rounds-4-5

ESPN Woodyard (Round 6, No. 217 overall: James Houston, OLB, Jackson State - My take: Lions general manager Brad Holmes drafts an HBCU prospect in Jackson State's James Houston, giving Deion Sanders his first NFL draft pick as a head coach. Holmes, an HBCU graduate of North Carolina A&T, spoke extensively throughout the year about giving those kids a chance. In this situation, he stands on his word.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38504/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2022-analysis-for-every-selection

ESPN (Pre-Draft Analysis - Houston has the explosive first step, plenty of length and great closing speed to develop into a disruptive edge rusher in the NFL. He flashes violent hands and good speed-to-power on tape. He stood out during the week of the East-West Shrine game. He's instinctive and tough, but he's short and light for an edge. -- Steve Muench):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds/_/round/5
Posted by LionsFan at 9:13 PM 0 comments

Chase Lucas Grades and Analysis

Grades:

PFN (Round 7, Pick 237: Chase Lucas, CB, Arizona State - The Lions can use more depth at cornerback, and in Round 7, Chase Lucas is a phenomenal match there. Lucas will be an older rookie – he’s set to be 25 years old by the start of the season. But Lucas has great physical traits. He’s a bit underweight at 180 pounds, but he has 32” arms and elite explosiveness. He can transition and close quickly in man coverage, and he has the ball skills to convert at the catch point. To add to all this, Lucas is a great locker room add. He was the energetic leader of the Arizona State defense during his time there.  Grade: A):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-grades-2022-aidan-hutchinson-stays-in-detroit/

Walter football (Detroit Lions: Chase Lucas, CB, Arizona State - A Grade.  Chase Lucas was in the second round of my 2022 NFL Mock Draft once upon a time. He doesn't have big upside, but he was a productive player at Arizona State, and I thought he would be chosen in the fifth frame. This seems like a good value at a position of need.):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftgrades5.php


CBS (237. Lions: Chase Lucas, CB, Arizona State Grade: B-. Already 25 years old, which is the biggest knock on his profile. Everything he does athletically and as a coverage player is high level. Feet, ball skills, awareness, speed.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-grades-tracker-analysis-for-every-fifth-round-selection-from-sam-howell-to-kingsley-enagbare/

Analysis:

ESPN Woodyard (Round 7, No. 237 overall: Chase Lucas, CB, Arizona State - My take: It’s only right that the Lions would add another defensive player with their final pick to help with their laundry list of needs on that side of the ball entering this season. The Lions are the only team to allow 100 passing touchdowns over the last three seasons combined (102). They’ve also intercepted just 25 passes in that time, which is tied for fewest with the Las Vegas Raiders so they’re looking for Lucas to help in the secondary after experiencing five years as a starter in college.):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38504/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-2022-analysis-for-every-selection

ESPN (Pre-Draft Analysis - Lucas is a smaller corner who lines up on the outside and over the slot. He flashes the ability to get an early break on the ball and limits production after the catch in off-coverage. He allows too much separation when he's forced to open his hips in space, and he doesn't recover well when he gets caught out of position. He hasn't intercepted a pass since 2019 and gets beat at the catch point at times. -- Steve Muench):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/rounds/_/round/5




Posted by LionsFan at 9:13 PM 0 comments

Evening Lions Links for Saturday 4-30-22

Lions Articles:

KEY QUESTIONS: Did Lions plan to focus on defense in 2022 NFL Draft?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/key-questions-did-lions-plan-to-focus-on-defense-in-2022-nfl-draft





New Lions TE James Mitchell expects to be fully cleared from ACL injury by June:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/new-lions-te-james-mitchell-expects-to-be-fully-cleared-from-acl-injury-by-june.html

5 things to know about Detroit Lions’ seventh-round pick Chase Lucas:  https://www.mlive.com/sports/2022/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-seventh-round-pick-chase-lucas.html

2022 NFL draft: Detroit Lions take Arizona State CB Chase Lucas in seventh round:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/2022-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-take-arizona-state-cb-chase-lucas.html

5 things to know about Detroit Lions’ sixth-round pick LB Malcolm Rodriguez:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/5-things-to-know-about-detroit-lions-sixth-round-pick-lb-malcolm-rodriguez.html

2022 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Jackson State edge rusher James Houston in sixth round:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/2022-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-jackson-state-edge-rusher-james-houston-in-sixth-round.html

2022 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Oklahoma State linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez in sixth round:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/2022-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-oklahoma-state-linebacker-malcolm-rodriguez-in-sixth-round.html

2022 NFL draft: Detroit Lions select Virginia Tech TE James Mitchell in fifth round, add picks in trade:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/2022-nfl-draft-detroit-lions-select-virginia-tech-te-james-mitchell-in-fifth-round.html

UDFA tracker: Detroit Lions sign electric Central Michigan receiver who scored 4 different ways:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/udfa-tracker-detroit-lions-sign-electric-central-michigan-receiver-who-scored-4-different-ways.html










How will sixth-round pick Malcolm Rodriguez fit into Detroit’s defense?:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/04/30/malcolm-rodriguez-detroit-lions-draft-depth-chart-scheme-fit/

Instant analysis of the Lions drafting Oklahoma State LB Malcolm Rodriguez:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/04/30/instant-analysis-of-the-lions-drafting-oklahoma-state-lb-malcolm-rodriguez/

Instant analysis of the Detroit Lions selection of LB Malcolm Rodriguez:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/30/23050952/instant-analysis-detroit-lions-selection-malcolm-rodriguez

Instant analysis of the Detroit Lions’ selection of TE James Mitchell:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/30/23050897/instant-analysis-detroit-lions-james-mitchell-nfl-draft-pick


Aidan Hutchinson opens as favorite for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/30/23050519/aidan-hutchinson-favorite-nfl-defensive-rookie-of-the-year


2022 NFL Draft: Falcons, Seahawks, Lions, Chiefs, Titans top Day Two winners (Lions keep getting more ferocious - For a long time there, the Lions have simply lacked the physicality and ferocity of their nickname.  Since general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell took over, however, this club has developed a new persona and there is nothing tame about it.  The Lions only made two picks Friday night, but former Kentucky edge rusher Josh Paschal and Illinois safety Kerby Joseph have the look of difference-makers. Paschal, in particular, is the kind of culture-building tough guy Detroit has lacked in the past. Joseph is a ballhawk who appears to be just scratching the surface of his potential.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-falcons-seahawks-lions-chiefs-top-day-two-winners

Other Articles:


VIDEO:





Lions select James Mitchell with No. 177 pick in 2022 draft:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-select-james-mitchell-with-no-177-pick-in-2022-draft

Lions select Malcolm Rodriguez with No. 188 pick in 2022 draft:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-select-malcolm-rodriguez-with-no-188-pick-in-2022-draft

Lions select James Houston with No. 217 pick in 2022 draft:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-select-james-houston-with-no-217-pick-in-2022-draft

Lions select Chase Lucas with No. 237 pick in 2022 draft:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/lions-select-chase-lucas-with-no-237-pick-in-2022-draft







James Jones' Top 5 WR-to-team fits in 2022 NFL Draft class (Jameson Williams is #5):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/james-jones-top-5-wr-to-team-fits-in-2022-nfl-draft-class

Marc Ross and James Jones' early predictions for Defensive Rookie of the Year (Hutchinson is picked):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/marc-ross-and-james-jones-early-predictions-for-defensive-rookie-of-the-year

Eisen, Davis, Schrager pose three wild-card Baker Mayfield scenarios:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/eisen-davis-schrager-pose-three-wild-card-baker-mayfield-scenarios
Posted by LionsFan at 9:11 PM 0 comments

CB Chase Lucas

Scouting Reports:



PFN (Chase Lucas, CB - Positives: Tough, hard-working cornerback who displays excellent awareness, mixes it up with opponents, and battles throughout the play. Possesses a burst of closing speed, displays good ball skills, and nicely times pass defenses. Explosive, stays with assignments, and gives effort defending the run. Crashes upfield to stop screen passes and drives his shoulders through opponents. Negatives: Sits on his backpedal, which hurts his ability to transition. Does not play to his 40 time and struggled staying downfield with even moderately fast receivers. Does a lot of face-guarding in deep coverage and is slow getting his head back around. Coming off a disappointing season.  Analysis: Lucas showed ability throughout his college career and has the athletic testing numbers to play on Sundays. That being the case, Lucas must get his game back to where it was in 2020 and stop the many inconsistencies he displayed last year.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/arizona-state-2022-nfl-draft-scouting-reports-include-rachaad-white-and-chase-lucas/






Articles:

Potential Patriots in the draft: Locking down the best cornerback fits for New England (Day 3 - Chase Lucas, Arizona State (Ht/Wt: 5-11, 180; Projected round: 5th-6th) - Scouting report: Played a variety of roles in the Sun Devils secondary, and could be a good depth piece for the Patriots to add on Day 3.  He’s not as big or physically imposing as some other cornerbacks in the draft, but his versatility in being able to play in the slot or out on the boundary, along with his instincts and football smarts make him a candidate to land in Foxboro.  N’Keal Harry’s former teammate was also a captain and a special teams contributor for Herm Edwards.  The Pats reportedly worked him out in Arizona so there’s definitely interest.) (4-26-22):  https://www.bostonherald.com/2022/04/26/potential-patriots-in-the-draft-locking-down-the-best-cornerback-fits-for-new-england/

2022 NFL Draft: 17 underrated prospects who could go earlier than expected (CB CHASE LUCAS, ARIZONA STATE (PFF Big Board Rank: NR):  Lucas tested well overall with a 4.48-second 40-yard dash (55th percentile), 1.52-second 10-yard split (84th), 39-inch vertical leap (86th), 10-foot-8 broad jump (85th), 4.16-second short shuttle (67th) and 6.78-second three-cone (83rd) at 6-feet, 188 pounds.  Lucas didn’t allow a touchdown in 2021. He could wind up being selected as early as the third round, per a source. The Patriots are a team to watch.) (4-19-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-17-underrated-prospects-earlier-than-expected

Report: Patriots to meet with two Arizona State defensive players (As part of their pre-draft meeting schedule this week, the Patriots will be heading to the desert. This week, they’ll be meeting with Arizona State cornerback Chase Lucas and linebacker Darien Butler, per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. According to NFL Network’s Mike Giardi, those meetings will take place in Arizona, meaning they do not qualify as Top-30 visits.  Lucas was a four-year starter for the Sun Devils, with his 49 total starts ranking second in program history. In that time, Lucas was asked to do a lot for the Arizona State secondary. He played both inside and in the slot, and features in a number of different coverage both man and zone and in press and off the line. Against the run, he’s a strong tackler who isn’t afraid to come up to the line of scrimmage and make a hit. While not as big (5-foot-11, 180 pounds) or physically dominant as some other cornerbacks in this draft, his instincts and football IQ will help him with his positioning.  With all that experience, both in terms of the number of games and the variety of roles he’s played, he’s a logical target for a Patriots team that needs depth in the secondary. He’s currently projected to go around the middle of Day 3.) (4-11-22):  https://985thesportshub.com/2022/04/11/report-patriots-to-meet-with-two-arizona-state-defensive-players/

ASU's Chase Lucas: 'I've Been Hearing a lot of Good Things' About NFL Draft Stock (3-14-22):  https://www.si.com/college/arizonastate/.amp/football/asu-chase-lucas-nfl-draft-stock-pro-day-combine

NFL Combine 2022: 5 cornerbacks who improved their draft stock include Zyon McCollum and Kalon Barnes (Chase Lucas, Arizona State - Chase Lucas was a productive five-year player for the Sun Devils. Up to this point, he’s had fans in small pockets, but there wasn’t a ton of buzz for him until now. Lucas made the most of his NFL Combine performance. Without agility drills, he came in with a RAS of 8.00, just on the lower threshold of elite range.  Lucas’ 180-pound frame weighed down his score, but Lucas recorded good speed with a 4.48 40-yard dash. He also excelled in explosiveness drills, with a 39-inch vertical and a 128-inch broad jump. Lucas’ elite explosiveness alone is incredibly intriguing. Once you factor in that he has arms near 32 inches long, it only compounds the excitement.) (3-7-22):    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-2022-5-cornerbacks-who-improved-their-draft-stock-include-zyon-mccollum-and-kalon-barnes/

Chase Lucas Becomes Arizona State All-Time Leader in Career Starts (11-20-21):  https://www.si.com/college/arizonastate/football/arizona-state-sun-devils-chase-lucas-all-time-leader

Pac-12 2022 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Chase Lucas, CB | Grade: 3.45 | Projected Round: 5th - Cornerback Chase Lucas is vastly underrated, in my opinion. I grade him as a fifth-rounder, two rounds higher than scouts. Lucas is a feisty cover corner with terrific ball skills and a steady game. Forty times before the draft are critical for Lucas, who offers potential in nickel packages at the next level.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pac-12-prospects-scouting-reports-2022-nfl-draft/
Posted by LionsFan at 7:08 PM 0 comments

DE James Houston

Scouting Reports:



SWAC 2022 NFL Draft Scouting Reports include Antwan Collier and Josh Wilkes (James Houston, LB | Jackson State - Positives: Former Florida Gator who is a forceful and explosive linebacker. Strong, sells out on the blitz, and makes a lot of plays behind the line of scrimmage. Bends off the edge with speed and chases the action down the line. Breaks down well, easily alters his angle of attack, and shows speed in every direction. Occasionally comes out of a three-point stance and displays great first-step quickness. Effectively reads and diagnoses the action.  Negatives: Lacks the size for defensive end and gets engulfed at the point. Was a part-time player at Florida.  Analysis: Houston showed flashes of ability in Gainesville and then watched his game take off last season. He possesses average size yet is a forceful linebacker who can make an NFL roster if he proves last year was not the exception to the rule.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/swac-2022-nfl-draft-scouting-reports-include-antwan-collier-and-josh-wilkes/





Scouting Reports:

2022 NFL Draft: 10 best HBCU draft prospects (1.  EDGE JAMES HOUSTON IV, JACKSON STATE (95.4 PASS-RUSHING GRADE) - Nicknamed “The Problem” during his lone season at JSU, James Houston IV became Coach Prime’s prized transfer portal recruit almost overnight. Following the switch from linebacker to edge rusher in his final collegiate season, the ex-Florida Gator tallied a 22.8% pass-rushing win rate and 81 total pressures across 364 pass-rushing snaps. The end result was a PFF-recorded 21 sack season sandwiched between 40 hurries and a SWAC Newcomer of the Year Award that punched his ticket to the NFL Collegiate PA Bowl and East-West Shrine Game.   Houston is a relentless edge rushing specialist who has had top-30 draft visits with the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys. It isn’t far-fetched to imagine Houston sneaking into the first three rounds despite a deep pass-rushing class. ) (4-27-22):    https://www.pff.com/news/draft-10-best-hbcu-nfl-draft-prospects-2022

Here are 20 HBCU football players to know entering the 2022 NFL draft (Defensive skill positions - Edge/LB James Houston | Jackson State:  James Houston was one of the best pass rushers in the FCS in 2021, finishing as a Buck Buchanan Award finalist. He played in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and East-West Shrine Bowl, displaying versatility as a pass rusher and stand-up linebacker. ) (4-27-22):  https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2022-04-15/hbcu-football-players-know-entering-2022-nfl-draft

2022 NFL Draft: All-Pros, Pro Bowlers and overachievers in this class (Red Stars - 5. James Houston:  The explosive pass rusher is a unique find as an off-ball linebacker with A-plus pass-rush skills. Houston is a play-making specialist who should thrive in a defense that deploys him as a Swiss Army knife in sub-packages.) (4-22-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-all-pros-pro-bowlers-and-overachievers-in-this-class

NFL draft 2022: Eight top HBCU prospects who have a chance to be selected or sign as undrafted free agents (Jackson State LB James Houston:  The first-team All-SWAC pass-rusher racked up 14 1⁄2 sacks and forced seven fumbles as a senior. Houston didn't receive a combine invite, but he impressed at his pro day, posting a 4.70-second 40-yard dash, 39-inch vertical and 10-5- broad jump.) (4-19-22):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/columnist/mike-jones/2022/04/19/nfl-draft-2022-hbcu-prospects-offer-plenty-potential/7366231001/

2022 NFL Draft: 10 best small-school gems (EDGE JAMES HOUSTON IV, JACKSON STATE:  Desiring a full-time starting role after a three-year rotational gig, Houston transferred from Florida to Jackson State and thrived as an FCS pass-rusher. In 2021, he registered 20 sacks and a 95.4 pass-rushing grade to lead a vaunted Jackson State defense to its first SWAC title since 2007.   At the NFLPA Bowl and East-West Shrine Game, Houston showcased versatility as a stand-up linebacker alongside his edge-rushing skillset. At his pro day, the Tigers' defensive star finished with a 4.7-second 40-yard dash, a 39-inch vertical and a 10-foot-5 broad jump. With his tape and athletic measurables, Houston can become a solid value pick in the later rounds.) (4-11-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-10-best-small-school-gems

5 NFL Draft prospects you need to know (James Houston, LB, Jackson State:  Numbers aren’t the basis for evaluation. However, some seriously impressive numbers are helping shine a light on Jackson State prospect James Houston. Those numbers begin with 16.5 sacks in the 2021 college football season. They extend to a 39″ vertical jump and 10’5″ broad jump that are elite for a 244-pound linebacker.  Those latter numbers come from a pro day that helped build momentum for a 2022 NFL Draft prospect who is one of several looking to put HBCUs back on the map. Houston switched to defensive end this season and showcased an explosive first step. He’s got the length to be disruptive at the next level and has demonstrated the ability to win with a dip move off the edge.) (4-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oliver-hodgkinson-weekly-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-04012022/

NFL Draft: Hunt's small-college gems to know on defense (LB James Houston (Jackson State) (Height: 6-1, Weight: 230):  One of the biggest NFL combine snubs in my opinion was Jackson State's James Houston. He's a dynamic athlete with tremendous versatility and athleticism. An off-ball LB at Florida, Houston turned into one of the most feared pass rushers at Jackson State. This year he finished with 24.5 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks and seven forced fumbles. Houston was able to parlay that into invites to the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and East West Shrine Bowl, where he played primarily off-ball LB and was able to showcase his coverage ability while also delivering several big hits and key plays in both games.) (3-30-22):    https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/hunts-small-college-starting-11-defensive-prospects-to-know-at-every-position-ahead-of-the-2022-nfl-draft/

What Deion Sanders saw in James Houston that could help in NFL draft (3-29-22):   https://amp.clarionledger.com/amp/7180921001

James Houston IV, 'The Problem' is Primed to Cause Problems for NFL (3-22-22):  https://www.si.com/college/hbcu/.amp/football/james-houston-primed-problems-nfl-offenses-2022

Seven takeaways from East-West Shrine Bowl (5 Houston stars on D. Jackson State linebacker James Houston was another bright spot for the East as he had a big hit in the run game, stopping Ty Chandler for a loss. He was also able to put pressure on Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy in the fourth quarter. Houston is an intriguing prospect after transferring from Florida. He had 16.5 sacks last season for head coach Deion Sanders.) (2-5-22):    https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-seven-takeaways-from-east-west-shrine-bowl

Top 10 HBCU prospects available in the 2022 NFL Draft (James Houston, EDGE/LB, Jackson State:  
Here is one of “my guys” in the 2022 NFL Draft. James Houston played linebacker at Florida from 2017-2020 but transitioned to defensive end once he joined Jackson State. He was an absolute monster off the edge this year, generating 70 total tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks, and 7 forced fumbles.) (1-20-22):    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-hbcu-prospects-available-in-the-2022-nfl-draft/

Top 5 HBCU performances from Week 2 in college football (Defensively, Florida transfer James Houston (10 tackles, 4.5 sacks)) (9-5-31):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-5-hbcu-performances-cfbwk-2/
Posted by LionsFan at 5:59 PM 0 comments

LB Malcolm Rodriguez

Scouting Reports:

Oklahoma State:  https://okstate.com/sports/football/roster/malcolm-rodriguez/9654





Articles:

Lions 2022 draft: A linebacker for every round (6th round: Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State:  Rodriguez is all over Oklahoma State’s defensive game film. He might have the best instincts and ball location skills in the entire draft class. I’ve been a fan for months, writing this about him in advance of the “Bedlam” game against Oklahoma,  "Rodriguez is an insanely productive off-ball backer with outstanding instincts and finishing power. He leads the Big 12 in total tackles and does so with a downhill style that makes Detroit fans salivate. Rodriguez plays with a chip on his shoulder and relentless energy. Coverage is not his forte, alas, and at 5-11 and 225 pounds that makes him a tougher sell to the NFL. Easy to see the Lions falling in love with Rodriguez in the fifth or sixth round."  Sixth round, meet your optimal (albeit undersized) Detroit Lions LB prospect…) (4-12-22):    https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2022-nfl-draft-linebacker-prospect-for-each-round/

2022 NFL Draft: Later-round backup plans for top picks (Plan C: Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State - A former safety, Rodriguez, is an all-gas, no-breaks linebacker who shines defeating blocks and plays with quality range and man-to-man coverage ability with good range and coverage ability. He has shorter with smaller tackling radius than most linebackers, but given how assertive and athletic he is, I'm fine with that. Rodriguez has the makeup to outplay his draft position.) (4-1-22):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2022-best-backup-plans-for-teams-that-miss-out-on-ahmad-gardner-breece-hall-and-more-top-prospects/

2022 NFL Draft: How the combine will impact draft boards (While Tindall deserves top billing, his former SEC opponent Christian Harris of Alabama also had a stellar showing, as did Wisconsin’s Leo Chenal, Wyoming’s Chad Muma and Oklahoma State’s Malcolm Rodriguez.) (3-7-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-how-the-combine-will-impact-draft-boards

NFL Combine 2022: Troy Andersen, Christian Harris among 5 linebackers who improved their draft stock (Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State:  If there was one linebacker who lifted himself from quasi-obscurity and announced himself on the NFL Draft stage with his NFL Combine performance, it was Oklahoma State’s Malcolm Rodriguez. The former Cowboy was quietly incredibly productive in college. In his five-year career, Rodriguez accumulated 408 tackles, 32 tackles for loss (16 of which came in 2021), 7.5 sacks, 2 picks, 11 pass deflections, and 13 forced fumbles.  A former safety, Rodriguez has now grown to be around 5’11”, 232 pounds. He’s also carried over plenty of that athleticism from his previous position. Rodriguez turned heads with his NFL Combine results and challenged the top linebackers in a few areas. He ran a searing 4.52 40-yard dash, had a 39.5-inch vertical, and came in with a strong 120-inch broad jump. A high-motor player and a team captain, Rodriguez likely has big fans in the NFL and could go much higher than expected.) (3-6-22):    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-combine-2022-5-linebackers-who-improved-their-draft-stock/

Top NFL draft prospects in every 2021-22 college football bowl game (LB MALCOLM RODRIGUEZ, OKLAHOMA STATE:  Rodriguez is likely to catch on as at least a special teamer in the NFL. The fifth-year senior racked up 61 stops for the Cowboys defense this season to lead the Power Five. But at only 5-foot-11 and 225 pounds with limited athleticism, he’s a longshot to go anywhere other than late in the draft.) (12-21-21):    https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-every-college-football-bowl-game

10 NFL draft prospects for the Lions to watch on CFB rivalry weekend (Oklahoma State LB Malcolm Rodriguez:  Rodriguez is an insanely productive off-ball backer with outstanding instincts and finishing power. He leads the Big 12 in total tackles and does so with a downhill style that makes Detroit fans salivate. Rodriguez plays with a chip on his shoulder and relentless energy. Coverage is not his forte, alas, and at 5-11 and 225 pounds that makes him a tougher sell to the NFL. Easy to see the Lions falling in love with Rodriguez in the fifth or sixth round.) (11-27-21):   https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-prospect-watch-guide-rivalry-week-13-detroit-lions-draft/

2022 NFL Draft Stock Report: Risers and sliders from college football in Week 12 (Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State:  The Cowboys have lived in anonymity this season despite being a top-10 team with one of the better defenses in the country. Malcolm Rodriguez is their leader. A hybrid defender who has played both safety and linebacker at OSU, Rodriguez is instinctive, tough as nails, and flies to the ball. He covers a lot of areas on the field, and the senior sells out to make plays. With just the rivalry game against Oklahoma left on the schedule, Rodriguez is 8 tackles shy of his career-best 103, which he produced in 2019.) (11-22-21):    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-stock-report-risers-and-sliders-from-college-football-in-week-12/

Big 12 Preseason All-Conference team ahead of 2021 college football season (Linebacker: Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State - Alongside Texas’ Overshown in our Big 12 All-Conference first-team is another safety-turned-linebacker in Oklahoma State’s Malcolm Rodriguez. Like Overshown, a crippling lack of depth in his team’s LB room necessitated a position change. And similarly, he has excelled in his new role. However — unlike the 6’4″, 220-pound Texas linebacker — Rodriguez has had to overcome size-based stereotypes to find success.  Substantially shorter than your average linebacker at 5’11”, Rodriguez also tipped the scales around 200 pounds at the time of transition. Despite his lack of relative size, it didn’t stop him from amassing 279 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 4.5 career sacks, and 4 forced fumbles. The Oklahoma State linebacker proudly professed to be up to 235 pounds ahead of the 2021 college football season. As a result, he projects to be a dangerous threat to anyone who gets in his way this fall.) (7-21-21):    https://www.profootballnetwork.com/big-12-preseason-all-conference-team-2021/

Posted by LionsFan at 4:51 PM 0 comments

TE James Mitchell

Scouting Reports:






2022 NFL Draft:  


2022 NFL Draft Sleepers: Chigoziem Okonkwo, Lucas Krull have next-level potential (James Mitchell, Virginia Tech:  Virginia Tech tight end James Mitchell entered the 2021 college football season with a decent amount of hype. As a result of a season-ending injury early in the year, he’s fallen out of the spotlight and dwells amongst the sleepers of the 2022 NFL Draft.  However, Mitchell is a big-bodied playmaker who uses his frame to box out defenders and his reliable hands to be a secure target. While blocking may not be his forte, he’s a pass-catching threat with deceptive speed, fast footwork, and good body control and ball-tracking skills.) (4-27-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-sleepers-chigoziem-okonkwo-lucas-krull-have-next-level-potential/

2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight Ends (4. JAMES MITCHELL, VIRGINIA TECH (BIG BOARD RANK: 109) - Mitchell has been forgotten in the tight end class after tearing his ACL in Week 2 of 2021. He possesses some of the best natural receiving talent in the class and is a more-than-willing blocker on tape.) (4-22-22): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-tight-ends-trey-mcbride-isaiah-likely-jalen-wydermyer


2022 NFL Scouting Combine: Notes on tight end free agents and prospects, potential top picks (Neal, Ekwonu, Dulcich, McBride, Mitchell) (3-1-22):   https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-scouting-combine-notes-tight-end-free-agents-prospects

NFL Draft News and Rumors: Treylon Burks struggling? Do the Jets like Trey McBride and Jeremy Ruckert? (Meanwhile, Virginia Tech tight end James Mitchell is doing incredibly well rehabbing the knee he injured in the middle of September. There is at least a hope the athletic prospect could get some type of workout in before the 2022 NFL Draft.) (1-27-22):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-rumors-treylon-burks-struggling-do-the-jets-like-trey-mcbride-and-jeremy-ruckert/

Top tight ends in the 2022 NFL Draft include Isaiah Likely, Jalen Wydermyer (8) James Mitchell, Virginia Tech:  A potential sleeper in the 2022 NFL Draft class, James Mitchell has the skill set to be one of the top tight ends this fall. As versatile as any prospect at the position, he has scored rushing touchdowns in both of his starting seasons while securing 6 receiving touchdowns. In addition to tallying 435 receiving yards, he led the Hokies in receiving scores last season.  His versatility is best demonstrated by the laundry list of alignments attributed to the Virginia Tech tight end. Mitchell has been used inline, out wide, in the slot, as an H-back, and even in the backfield. Furthermore, he has special-teams value as a punt returner.  A reliable receiver who uses his 6’3″, 240-pound frame to be physical at the catch point and after, Mitchell has an impressive motor as a blocker. The Virginia Tech TE brings strength to that element of the game that some of his contemporaries lack.) (8-25-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-tight-ends-isaiah-likely-jalen-wydermyer/ 

ACC 2022 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (James Mitchell, TE | Grade: 3.56 | Projected Round: 4th.  Scouts I’ve spoken with grade James Mitchell as a late-round pick, which is surprising to me, as I grade the senior three rounds earlier. Mitchell looks like a receiver in a tight end’s body the way he moves around the field catching the ball. Though not a true speedster, Mitchell is fast enough to split the seam and get down the field.) (8-12-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/acc-draft-prospects-and-scouting-reports-for-2022-nfl-draft/3/

2022 NFL Draft: UNC's Howell, Clemson highlight ACC preview (Tight end James Mitchell is an above-average blocker built like an H-Back. He lacks great top end speed but has a knack for sitting in the soft spots of zone coverage.) (8-10-31):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-acc-preview-north-carolinas-sam-howell-top-prospect-clemson-reloads-on-offense/

PFF 2021 College Preseason John Mackey Award Watch List: Best TE in college football (8. JAMES MITCHELL, VIRGINIA TECH - Mitchell has run rather hot and cold over the past two years, but the big-play ability is what lands him inside the top 10. Since 2019, he has turned over 31% of his targets into a gain of 15-plus yards, the second-highest rate among Power Five tight ends. Mitchell has also churned out 10.7 yards after the catch per reception in that span, over a yard and a half higher than anyone else at the position in the FBS.  Mitchell’s production became more consistent in 2020, as he wasn’t asked to win at receiver nearly as much. His rate of in-line passing snaps went from 31.5% to 49.5%, and his receiving grade (69.8 to 83.8) and yards per route run average (1.59 to 2.86) spiked with it.) (7-23-21):   https://www.pff.com/news/college-preseason-john-mackey-award-watch-list-2021

ACC Preseason All-Conference team ahead of 2021 college football season (Tight End: James Mitchell, Virginia Tech - Mitchell could have entered the 2021 NFL Draft, earning a Day 3 grade from several NFL scouts. However, he opted to return to Virginia Tech for his senior season, and in doing so, makes a spot on our preseason ACC All-Conference team. Mitchell led all conference tight ends in yards per catch last year, averaging an impressive 16.73. With Long and Brevin Jordan departed to the NFL, he is also the top returning tight end in terms of total yards.  A multi-sport high school star, Mitchell brings elements of that athleticism to the tight-end position. The Virginia Tech pass catcher has decent speed for his size, impressive agility, and can mix it up with the best of them in 50-50 contested-catch situations. Mitchell also has the ability to find the end zone, snagging 4 touchdowns last season.) (7-17-21):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/acc-preseason-all-conference-team-2021/

The PFF Preseason College Football All-ACC Team: North Carolina QB Sam Howell starts at QB, Clemson's Justyn Ross earns WR spot
 COLLEGE (TIGHT END - First-Team: James Mitchell, Virginia Tech.  Mitchell has run rather hot and cold over the past two years, but his big-play ability lands him inside the top 10. Since 2019, he has turned over 31% of his targets into a gain of 15-plus yards, the second-highest rate among Power Five tight ends. Mitchell has also churned out 10.7 yards after the catch per reception in that span, over a yard and a half higher than anyone else at the position in the FBS.  Mitchell’s production became more consistent in 2020, as he wasn’t asked to win at receiver nearly as much. His rate of inline passing snaps went from 31.5% to 49.5%, and his receiving grade (69.8 to 83.8) and yards per route run average (1.59 to 2.86) spiked with it.) (6-30-21):   https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-pff-preseason-all-acc-team 

Posted by LionsFan at 4:27 PM 0 comments

Josh Paschal Rankings

Overall (Average Ranking:  74):


PFF (44. EDGE JOSH PASCHAL, KENTUCKY
Paschal has a unique body type for the edge at 6-foot-3 and 278 pounds. He's a leverage demon who lived in opponents' backfields last year en route to a Power Five-leading 12.4% run-stop rate.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-board-big-board

NFL Real GM (45.  Josh Paschal, EDGE, Kentucky):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3451/The-2022-NFL-Draft-Top-103-Prospects


Draft Network (58. Josh Paschal - Kentucky defensive lineman Josh Paschal is a scheme-diverse talent who should be able to offer appeal to most defensive systems across the league. I think he’d be best weaponized in a Belichick-style defense that asks their defenders to play multiple spots along the line and serve multiple roles in both two-gap and gap-penetration scenarios. Paschal has the skill set to do both and he proved it in 2021 after enjoying a career season for an upstart Wildcats defense.  He’s made plays in just about every way imaginable, serving as a stack-and-shed defender against Florida (2021), slashing into the backfield against LSU (2021), blocking a field goal against the Gators, and generally aligning all over the Wildcats front. Whether they played odd or even fronts, he took snaps as a base end in an over-front, as a 4i alignment in odd looks, a 3-technique in nickel sub-packages with two down linemen, and as the stand-up nose tackle for a 5-0 pressure look. This amount of versatility is impressive and he pairs it with powerful hands and a surprising level of juice in his frame to accelerate and attack the ball-carrier.  Paschal’s biggest question is rooted in erratic performance and production; he had a down year in 2020 and looked nowhere near as dynamic that season as compared to his past year as a force to be reckoned with up front. Paschal was diagnosed in the summer of 2018 with malignant melanoma that required multiple surgeries and immunotherapy treatments (12 months) but was healthy enough to return to play that same season. He’s been a starter ever since and served as a team captain in 2020—he’s got a great resume off the field for academics and character. This is someone who plays motivated and is someone you’re going to want in your locker room.  Ideal role: 4-3 base end, 3-4 4i alignment IDL.  Scheme tendencies: Multiple-front schemes and blend of gap penetration and two-gapping principles):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/big-board/nfl-draft-2022-top-prospects-tdn/?current-page=3

Walter football (59. Josh Paschal, DE, Kentucky.  Previously: 59 Avg. 71.2 per 12):  https://walterfootball.com/nfldraftbigboard

Thor 500 (62.  Josh Paschal  (Comp. - John Franklin-Myers, Ras - 9.7):  https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/nfl-draft-analysis/thor-500-nystroms-nfl-draft-big-board




Fox sports (GREEN CHIPS - 72. Josh Paschal, EDGE, Kentucky, 6-3, 270, 4.77.  In a class full of explosive rushers, Paschal is more tough and technically sound than twitched up, but his production (15.5 TFLs in 2021) and intangibles (three-time team captain) are bankable assets.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-draft-2022-big-board-ranking-top-100-prospects

Tankathon (76. Josh Paschal):  https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/big_board





SN (132. Joshua Paschal, EDGE, Kentucky (6-3, 268 pounds):  Paschal is a reliable rock of a pass rusher with some sturdiness against the run who could work to be more explosive.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2022-players-rankings-big-board/w8ced1cqrbo2kl1lowxr02mh
Total:  1408/19 = 74

Positional (Average Ranking = 11):

Walter football DE Rankings (4. Kentucky image Josh Paschal, 3-4DE/DE, Kentucky
Height: 6-3. Weight: 278. Arm: 32.75. Hand: 9.63.  Official 40 Time: 4.77.  Projected Round (2022): 3-5).  4/27/22: Paschal was a difference maker once again for Kentucky in 2021. He put together impressive games against Florida and Georgia. On the year, Paschal had 52 tackles, five sacks and one forced fumble.  Paschal is a tough run defender who can contribute some pass rush. He has some quickness, strength, and athleticism that was illustrated with good workouts. Additionally, Paschal received outstanding marks from teams for his football, locker room leadership, and off-the-field intangibles. Some teams are eyeing him late in the second round and early in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft.  7/10/21: Paschal was a tough competitor in the ground game in 2020, but he did not produce much in the pass rush. He was wise to go back to school. Paschal needs to improve his pass-rush production as a senior. He could be a tweener defensive tackle/end, and he should probably gain weight to play on the inside as a pro.  Paschal does have a thick build with strength for a defensive end. He flashed more pass-rush ability in 2019 and 2017. Paschal lost his 2018 season to fighting malignant melanoma, but after beating cancer, he returned to the field in 2019 to put together a quality year for Kentucky.):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2022DE3-4.php

CBS DE Rankings (7. DE Josh Paschal):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospect-rankings/edge

PFF DE Rankings (9. JOSH PASCHAL, KENTUCKY (BIG BOARD RANK: 44):  Paschal has a unique body type for the edge at 6-foot-3 and 278 pounds. He's a leverage demon who lived in opponents' backfields last year en route to a Power Five-leading 12.4% run-stop rate.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-edge-defenders-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux-george-karlaftis

Thor Nystrom DE Rankings (12. Josh Paschal | 6025/270 | Kentucky - RAS: 9.7, PFF grade: 4, PFF pass rush: 29, PFF run D: 2, PFF tackling: 12) Comp: John Franklin-Myers):  https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/nfl-draft-analysis/nfl-draft-rankings-edge-rushers

Tankathon DE Rankings (14. DE Josh Paschal):   https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/big_board

Athlonsports DE Rankings (14. Josh Paschal):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-defensive-end-rankings



Total:  89/8 = 11




Posted by LionsFan at 3:16 PM 0 comments

Kerby Joseph Rankings

Overall (Average Ranking:  87):





PFF (73. S KERBY JOSEPH, ILLINOIS:  Joseph is a ball-hawking safety with ultra-long arms that can affect the catch point. The 6-foot Joseph's wingspan reaches almost 6-foot-8, and he used every bit of that to pick off five passes last season.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-board-big-board





Draft Network (138. Kerby Joseph - Illinois safety Kerby Joseph enters the 2022 NFL Draft as a big breakout performer of the 2021 college football season. Joseph entered the season as a fringe starter for the Illini but by the close of the season, Joseph’s accolades were among the most impressive we’ve seen from an Illini safety in a long time. Just the fifth Illinois safety in the last half a century to be given First-Team All-Big-Ten honors, Joseph forged a reputation for impact plays in coverage thanks to an impressive five interceptions and proved to be quite the ball magnet. But the projection of Joseph to the pro game requires a little more nuance as the sample size of highly-productive play for Joseph is very small and ball production can be hard to project as sustainable year over year if you’re measuring success by interceptions. Joseph, for example, only contested two other throws this season in coverage and managed just six career PBUs. That isn’t to say that he’s not capable of developing into a frequent ballhawk, but I do question the sustainability of his high-end production in 2021. Joseph is a sufficient athlete for playing in the high post and I think he’s certainly got appeal as a developmental player who, with time, could be a starter in the league. But I wouldn’t draft him to serve that kind of role early on coming out of Illinois.  Ideal role: Developmental free safety  Scheme tendencies: High volume of man free coverage):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/big-board/nfl-draft-2022-top-prospects-tdn/?current-page=7

SN (141. Kerby Joseph, S, Illinois (6-1, 203 pounds):  Joseph is a great cover man who doubles as an active ballhawk but he's not really an in-the-box option.):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2022-players-rankings-big-board/w8ced1cqrbo2kl1lowxr02mh

Total:  1396/16 = 87

Positional (Average Ranking = 7):


PFF S Rankings (6. KERBY JOSEPH, ILLINOIS (BIG BOARD RANK: 73) - Joseph is a ball-hawking safety with ultra-long arms that can affect the catch point. Standing 6-foot tall, Joseph's wingspan reaches almost 6-foot-8, and he used every bit of that to pick off five passes last season.):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-safeties-jaquan-brisker-kyle-hamilton-jordan-battle


Thor Nystrom S Rankings (7. Kerby Joseph | 6007/203 | Illinois  (PFF grade: 1, PFF coverage: 1, PFF tackling: 17, PFF run D: 24, PFF pass rush: 11, Comp: Steven Parker):  https://www.nbcsportsedge.com/article/nfl-draft-analysis/2022-nfl-draft-rankings-safeties




Walter football 3-4 OLB Rankings (8. Kerby Joseph, S, Illinois
Height: 6-1. Weight: 200. Arm: 33. Hand: 10.25.  Projected 40 Time: 4.55.  Projected Round (2022): 3-4) 4/27/22: Joseph put together an impressive senior year, recording 57 tackles, five interceptions and two passes defended. He showed a huge improvement over the previous three years, over which he notched zero interceptions and 60 tackles. At the Senior Bowl, Joseph had a solid week of practice.  Joseph impressed teams with his deep free safety ability because he anticipates passes well and is a threat to make big plays with serious ball skills. He needs some development and has to become stronger, but he has upside to be a starting free safety in the NFL.):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2022OLB3-4.php

Total:  56/8 = 7
Posted by LionsFan at 2:53 PM 0 comments
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