1. 1. A.J. Green – WR – 6’3” – 211 lbs. – Georgia
   

   UGA's AJ Green

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.48; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 1^st Round

Since Green declared for the 2011 Draft, he’s been the consensus number one receiver on the board.  While not possessing top-flight speed, Green has been an extremely productive player (166 receptions, 1982 receiving yards, 24 TD’s); despite missing several games to suspension and injury during his three-year career as a Bulldog. His productivity is due to a blend of his excellent height and his crafty route running which allow him to get off the line quickly and his long strides allow him to get separation. Has long-arms and great hands. Exceptional body-control that makes him very tough to defend on the deep ball. Is considered a adequate run-blocker but will have to do a better job at finishing blocks at this level. A.J. does have the tendency to get outmuscled by bigger and more physical DB’s on occasion. He has the frame to add more weight without sacrificing speed. There isn’t much to dislike about Green and he should be the first of this deep receiver class to hear his name called.

1. 2. Julio Jones – WR – 6’4” – 220 lbs. – Alabama

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.39; Cone – 6.66) Draft Projection: 1^st Round

In terms of potential, there is none greater than Alabama’s own Julio Jones. Has excellent upside but is considered raw in a number of areas. His size and speed draw comparisons to current All-Pro WR Andre Johnson (Houston Texans). He has shown the ability to go over the middle, take the big hit and hold on to the ball. His biggest assets are his hands, which he uses efficiently in creating separation; he will rarely be jammed at the line of scrimmage. The biggest knock on Jones is his inconsistency. He struggles to locate the ball on deep routes; and has the tendency to get lazy and allow the ball into his frame, which results in a number of easy passes to hit the ground. There are few receivers with his combination of size, talent and effort. Was the 2011 winner of the Sylvester Croom Commitment to Excellent Award. If Jones can put everything together, he has the potential to be an All-Pro type player.

1. 3. Torrey Smith – WR – 6’0” – 202 lbs. – Maryland

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.43; Cone – 6.72) Draft Projection: 2^nd Round

Torrey is a late bloomer, who spent the 2007 season as a redshirt. The most impressive quality from Torrey is his big-play ability; he set the ACC single-season kickoff return record with 1,089 yards, including a 99-yard return in the 09’ Humanitarian Bowl. He finished the ’10 season with 67 receptions for 1,055 yards and 12 TD’s, good enough to be placed on the All-ACC team. Smith is a dangerous runner after the catch and is a threat to take any catch to the end zone. He can struggle at getting off the line in press coverage and needs to work on fighting off DB’s. He compares favorably to former teammate Darrius Heyward-Bay, who went 7^th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft. Ended his career with 2,129 all-purpose yards which ranks him 2^nd all time in the Atlantic Coast Conference. His value peaks here because of his ability to return kicks and his top-end speed.

1. 4. Jonathan Baldwin – WR – 6’5” – 228 lbs. – Pittsburgh

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.45; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 2^nd Round

Baldwin, an impressive physical specimen, is a bit of an enigma heading in to the 2010 NFL Draft. Blessed with an incredible combination of size and speed, he has been ranked everywhere from the #2 wideout in his class to the middle-teens. Absolutely elite in ball skills – a natural at catching the ball away from his body; and creates nightmares for smaller DB’s in jump ball situations. Averaged 18.3/per catch in his career at Pitt, speed is not a concern. Rarely is jammed at the line and has the quick burst needed to make quick adjustments in his routes. He does get lazy from time to time in route running. The major concern from scouts on Baldwin is his “diva” reputation. Baldwin publically threw his QB under the bus after a bowl loss and was arrested and charged with assault, harassment and disorderly conduct. The charges were later dropped but only add to his reputation as a bit of a problem child.

1. 5. Randall Cobb – WR – 5’11” – 192 lbs. – Kentucky – 4.46

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.46; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 2^nd Round

Elected an All-American as an all-purpose player by the Associated Press, Cobb can do a little bit of everything. Had a very productive 2010 season at Kentucky, finishing with 955 yards receiving, 401 yards on the ground and 12 total touchdowns; including 3 passing TD’s and a returned punt. Cobb has a knack for finding seems and holes in the zone – he’s quick out of his breaks and uses his body well to create separation from opposing DB’s. He lacks elite size and top-end speed but can get behind coverage from time to time. A very tough receiver who will fight for extra yards and described asrelentless as a run blocker. Is susceptible to mental errors on the field and will drop an occasional easy pass. The phrase “jack of all trades but master of none” fits here. He’ll likely settle in to a slot position at the next level, similar to Wes Welker in stature and skills.

1. 6. Leonard Hankerson – WR – 6’1” – 205 lbs. – Miami – 4.43

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.43; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 2^nd-3^rdRound

Leonard Hankerson is a bit of a question mark heading in to this draft. He has the size and speed scouts are looking for at the next level but his slow development at Miami was a bit puzzling. Had only 17 catches for 203 yards in his first two years for the Hurricanes. Finished the ’10 season with 1,156 yards and 13 TD’s.  Has a long stride but is slow to build speed; but has enough speed to create some matchup problems in the vertical passing game. Is fearless over the middle and can take a short-to-medium route and find a seem. He is described as “attacking” the ball with his hands and isn’t afraid to mix it up in one-on-one situations; but has poor ability to adjust to underthrown balls. Has frustrated Miami coaches with his tendency to drop easy passes. Runs more upright than you would like and is sometimes lazy in his route running. His ranking this high is strictly based upon his potential; the improvement he’s shown over his time at Miami shows his ability to be coached. He will likely need a year or two to continue his development before his contributions will be felt.

1. 7. Titus Young – WR – 5’11” – 174 lbs. – Boise State – 4.43

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.43; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 2^nd-3^rdRound

Much like Jonathan Baldwin, there are many questions about intangibles that surround Young. Often described as immature, Young was suspended 10 games during the 2008 stemming from off-the-field issues. Scouts thought he would challenge for the title of fastest receiver at the combine but ran a disappointing 4.43 (was recently clocked at his Boise State Pro-Day at 4.35). With his underwhelming size, he has to show that he can get past the secondary. Has lightning quick route running skills and is dangerous in the open-field. Young wears his emotions on his sleeve which is a double-edged sword; will get unnecessary flags thrown his way but also works hard over the middle of the field and isn’t afraid of the big hit. Struggles when jammed at the line of scrimmage and can get rerouted out of his breaks. NFL teams know what they are getting with Titus; a fiery receiver, whose production at Boise cannot be denied. He compares favorably with Eagles receiver DeSean Jackson. If he can display the same type of electricity with the ball as Jackson, someone will be getting a steal in the later parts of the second round/early third round.

1. 8. Jerrel Jernigan – WR – 5’9” – 183 lbs. – Troy – 4.46

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.46; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3rd Round

There is a lot to like about Jerrel Jernigan. Some will write off him due to him playing at Troy but Jerrel has shown up on the big stage (16 receptions for 145 yards in two games vs. Oklahoma in 2008 and 2010). His 4.46 forty-yard-dash time is not con. He has excellent straight-line speed and can get into the gap in a heartbeat. He is a pure-runner with the ball in his hands and has an array of moves to get opposing defenders off-balance. He could be an ideal fit for teams wanting to install a Wildcat package. The downsides of playing at a small school are questions regarding competition and the type of offense run at Troy; can he handle the complex routes at the NFL level? His size is a concern but Jernigan has worked tirelessly to add weight to his frame. His production at the NCAA level is solid but it remains to be seen if it will translate to the pro game.

1. 9. Tandon Doss – WR – 6’2” – 202 lbs. – Indiana

Combine Numbers (40T – DNP; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3^rd Round

Tandon enters our rankings a bit behind the curve. Not able to participate in the Senior Bowl as a junior and declined to participate in the combine drills. Doss led the Big Ten in all-purpose yards and finished fourth nationally. The Indiana prospect is one of the most sure-handed receivers in this class, and perhaps one of the most experienced as a three-year starter for the Hoosiers. He has deceptive top-end speed and maximizes yards after the catch. He’ll never be mistaked for a burner in the NFL, but is the prototypical possession receiver at the next level. The biggest hole in his game is his run blocking; he gives a solid effort but his technique will need to be refined against NFL receivers. There isn’t a consensus on where Doss will end up in the 2010 NFL Draft but his skill set varies from the other receivers this year and could hear his name called early.

1. 10. Greg Little – WR – 6’3” – 210 lbs. – North Carolina

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.56; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3^rd Round

Questions surround Little’s maturity level but his skill set as a receiver remain unchallenged. His 2010 season ended before it began as he was ruled ineligible for the season for violating NCAA benefits (receiving agent benefits). However, Little’s production level never matched up to his potential; his best season came in 2009 where he had 62 receptions, 724 yards and 5 TD’s. Little’s college nickname was the “Freak” after a game against NC State where he drove CB Jarvis Byrd ten yards off the ball while blocking on an end-around before driving him in to the ground where he eventually had to be helped off the field. His physical skills are off the chart but he drops because of the mental lapses on the field. He doesn’t pay attention to the small details and will take off a play off if he’s not involved. If he can bring it all together, he could be the biggest steal of the entire draft.

1. 11. Edmund Gates – WR – 5’11” – 189 lbs. – Abilene Christian

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.37; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3^rd-4^thRound

Gates, out of Abilene Christian, while being one of the oldest prospects to come out is also the most unexperienced. Only playing one year of high school football, Gates quit to focus more on a basketball career. After being booted from a Junior College, Gates followed his cousin Bernard Scott (NFL’s Cincinatti Bengals) to ACU. A small, but quick receiver, Gates ran a 4.37 in the forty – tops about receivers at the NFL Combine. Not the sharpest at route running and has adequate ball-skills. Every time he touches the ball, he’s a threat to score. His inexperience leaves a lot to be desired and could take time learning NFL-level routes and reading coverage.

1. 12. Vincent Brown – WR – 5’11” – 184 lbs. – San Diego State

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.71; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3^rd-4^thRound

San Diego St. was a surprise in 2010, and Vincent Brown was a big reason why. Had a productive 2010 with 69 rec. for 1,352 yards. Brown is a solid route runner…does the little things extremely well that don’t show up in the stat column.  Below average speed but makes up for it with his agility and his bursts out of cuts to separate from defenders. Brown is described as a “violent” run blocker; San Diego St. has pulled him to block the backside from time to time. He’s going to have to work hard to fix the mental errors and continue to grow.

1. 13. Dwayne Harris – WR – 5’10” – 200 lbs. – East Carolina

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.56; Cone – 6.77) Draft Projection: 3^rd-4^th Round

2010 Conference USA player of the year; also first team all-conference selection as a punt returned. Set ECU’s single-season records with 1,123 rec. yards and 101 receptions. Projected as a slot receiver at the next level, runs solid routes and does a nice job at getting in and out of breaks. A tough receiver; does most of his damage over the middle of the field. Lacks elite-level speed to be considered a deep threat but does have good strength to fight for extra yards after contact. Stock draft after the Senior Bowl – Harris lacked explosiveness and described as having “stone hands.” His toughness will allow him to catch on but he’ll have to work on his ability to attack the ball with his hands and now allow the mental lapses which have raised questions about his long-term status in the NFL.

1. 14. Niles Paul – WR – 6’1” – 225 lbs. – Nebraska

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.59; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 3^rd-4^thRound

Nebraska wideout Paul has the physical tools to become a very good NFL prospect but his checkered past has caused him to drop on many boards.  Paul finished 2010 with 39 catches for 516 yards and just one touchdown (he missed two games due to injury; didn’t touch the ball in two others).  Scouts love his combination of size and strength; he’s a load to bring down in the open field. He’s got a tremendous vertical leap (36-inch). The knock on Paul is the aforementioned past (arrested twice for alchohal related offenses) and his inconsistency. Drops a lot of balls he shouldn’t (focus; and has small hands for a receiver at 8-inches). With a bit of coaching, Paul has the potential to develop in to a starter at the NFL level.

1. 15. Gregory Salas – WR – 6’1” – 206 lbs. – Hawaii – 4.57

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.57; Cone – 6.65) Draft Projection: 4^th Round

Enjoyed one of the most productive careers in NCAA history (285 cat., 4,345 receiving yards and 26 TDs). His size, strength, experience and soft hands give him tremendous value as a receiver at the NFL level. He struggled with drops at the Senior Bowl but his tape at Hawaii shows this is a strength. Release needs work and can be pushed off his route, but when allowed to get top end strength, he can make you pay. He does not have the explosiveness to break away from receivers at the next level.

1. 16. Terrence Toliver – WR – 6’4” – 211 lbs. – Louisiana State

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.52; Cone – 6.48) Draft Projection: 4^th Round

Toliver has the height to make scouts drool. A fairly unproductive player at LSU; just 85 career receptions. His length allows for long strides and smooth acceleration; has deceptive straight-line speed.  Has strong hands, large wingspan ad hand-eye coordination to make the tough grab. Doesn’t always see the ball in to his hands allowing for some easy drops that frustrate coaches. Has some character issues – was arrested and charged with tampering with a police officer, disturbing the peace and public intoxication.

1. 17. Cecil Shorts – WR – 6’0” – 200 lbs. – Mount Union – 4.53

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.53; Cone – 6.50) Draft Projection: 4^th Round

Shorts is attempting to follow in the footsteps of former Purple Raider receiver Pierre Garcon (now playing for the Indianapolis Colts). Cecil began his career as a QB, but showed his all-purpose ability as a redshirt freshman (rushing for 209 yards and catching 12 passes for 289 yards). A jack of all trades but showed tremendous value as a receiver. Can line up anywhere but is most effective out of the slot; and runs every route in the tree effectively. Inconsistent using his hands in front of him; ball is frequently jarred loose.  A bit lazy on routes he’s not directly involved in. Will have to show his production wasn’t the result of being the superior player athletically at the DIII level.

1. 18. Jeremy Kerley – WR – 5’10” – 188 lbs. – Texas Christian

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.56; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 4^th Round

The 2010 Mountain West Special Teams Player of the Year. Just one of two players to rank in the top 20 for punt returns (12.9 yards) and kick returns (27.7 yards) in 2010. Has quick feet and ability to separate from receivers set him apart from other receivers at the Senior Bowl. He lacks the size scouts covet and will have to show he isn’t a product of the spread system at Texas Christian. His value is probably as a specialist which works in his favor as teams are using roster spots for return men and decoys in the receiving game.

1. 19. Tyrod Taylor – WR – 6’1” – 216 lbs. – Virginia Tech – 4.51

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.51; Cone – 6.78) Draft Projection: 5th Round

Even after breaking most of Tech’s QB records, Taylor projects as a receiver at the next level. Blessed with tremendous arm strength and jaw-breaking mobility, he does project a bit on the short side as a quarterback. Has great speed and can really make defenders miss with his elusiveness and quick hips. Will work out exclusively as a quarterback in pro days and could be used as a wildcat option at the NFL level. Questions about his ability to catch the ball and run routes will have to be answered but based upon his athletic ability alone, someone will take a chance on him as a receiver somewhere in the 2010 draft.

1. 20. Austin Pettis – WR – 6’2” – 205 lbs. – Boise State

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.56; Cone – 6.68) Draft Projection: 5th Round

Pettis leaves Boise State as the school’s all-time leader in receptions (229) and touchdown receptions (39). Steady and productive over his career; finished the year with 71 catches and 951 yards and 10 TDs for a Bronco offense that finished second in the nation in scoring offense. Good hands but not great. Comes out of his breaks with good speed; exceptional route runner. He’s a tall target at 6’2” but ran a pedestrian 4.56 and has to show that he can go vertical. Shines on the big stage and isn’t afraid of the spotlight. Could be a steal in the 5^th round.

1. 21. Darvin Adams – WR – 6’3” – 185 lbs. – Auburn

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.52; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 5^th Round

1. 22. Ronald Johnson – WR-  5’11” – 186 lbs. – Southern California

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.51; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 5^th Round

1. 23. Denarius Moore – WR – 6’0” – 191 lbs. – Tennessee

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.45; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 5^th Round

1. 24. Dane Sanzenbacher – WR – 5’11” – 182 lbs. – Ohio State

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.45; Cone – 6.46) Draft Projection: 6^th Round

1. 25. Lester Jean – 6’3” – 211 lbs. – Florida Atlantic

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.59; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 6^th Round

1. 26. Aldrick Robinson – WR – 5’10” – 182 lbs. – Southern Methodist

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.51; Cone – 6.65) Draft Projection: 6^th Round

1. 27. Orenthal Murdock – WR – 5’11” – 195 lbs. – Fort Hays State

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.55; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 6^th-7th Round

1. 28. Jockee Sanders – WR – 5’6” – 174 lbs. – West Virginia

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.51; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 7^th Round

1. 29. Mark Dell – WR – 6’0” – 193 lbs. – Michigan State

Combine Numbers (40T – DNP; Cone – DNP) Draft Projection: 7^th Round

1. 30. Terrance Turner – WR – 6’2” – 221 lbs. – Indiana

Combine Numbers (40T – 4.51; Cone – 6.77) Draft Projection: 7^th Round

1. 31. Armon Binns – WR — 6’2” – 211 lbs. – Cincinnati
2. 32. Kealoha Pilares – WR – 5’10” – 215 lbs. – Hawaii
3. 33. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos – 5’11” – 204 lbs. – Iowa
4. 34. Terrell Zachery – 5’11” – 208 lbs. – Auburn
5. 35. James Kirkendoll – 5’11” – 182 lbs. – Texas
6. 36. DeAndre Brown – 6’6” – 239 lbs. – Southern Mississippi
7. 37. Tori Gurley – 6’5” – 230 lbs. – South Carolina
8. 38. James Cleveland – 6’0” – 197 lbs. – Houston
9. 39. Courtney Smith – 6’4” – 220 lbs. – South Alabama
10. 40. Jeffrey Maehl – 6’1” – 181 lbs. – Oregon
11. 41. Jamel Hamler – 6’2” – 195 lbs. – Fresno State
12. 42. Ryan Whalen – 6’1” – 204 lbs. – Stanford
13. 43. Keith Smith – 6’3” – 224 lbs. – Purdue
14. 44. Graham Zug – 6’2” – 182 lbs. – Penn State
15. 45. Markeith Summers – 6’3” – 201 lbs. – Mississippi
16. 46. Jarvis Williams – 6’4” – 218 – North Carolina State
17. 47. Carl Moore — 6’2 ½” – 222 lbs. – Florida
18. 48. Owen Spencer – 6’2” – 191 lbs. – North Carolina State
19. 49. Marshall Williams – 6’1” – 188 lbs. – Wake Forest
20. 50. Videl Hazelton – 6’2” – 210 – Cincinnati
21. 51. John Chiles – 6’2” – 217 lbs. — Texas
22. 52. Kristopher Adams – 6’3” – 194 lbs. – UTEP
23. 53. David Gilreath – 5’9” – 172 lbs. – Wisconsin
24. 54. Detron Lewis – 5’11” – 211 lbs. – Texas Tech
25. 55. Terrence McCrae – 6’2 – 195 lbs. – Ohio
26. 56. Xavier Dye – 6’4” – 210 lbs. – Clemson
27. 57. Armand Robinson — 6’0” – 203 lbs. – Miami (Ohio)
28. 58. Brandon Caleb – 6’0” – 192 lbs. – Oklahoma
29. 59. Kyle Jefferson – 6’3” – 184 lbs. – Wisconsin
30. 60. Trae Johnson – 5’11” – 187 lbs. – Tulsa
31. 61. Gerald Jones – 5’10” – 196 lbs. – Tennessee
32. 62. Jimmy Young – 6’0”—204 lbs. – Texas Christian
33. 63. Austin Kelly – 6’2” – 205 lbs. – Duke
34. 64. Jeremy LeFrance – 6’0” – 196 lbs. – Akron
35. 65. Cortez Smith – 6’2” – 183 lbs. — Purdue

Honor Roll:

Joe Horn-5’11”-180lbs.- Ashland University-As a GILAC conference (D-II) superstar, Joe has earned many plaudits during his career, and is drawing interest from several NFL teams. In his final game, Joe had 8 TD’s (yes 8), 6 Receiving and 2 Returns….

BY ANTHONY S. CARILLO-Contributing Writer/Reporter/Football Reporters Online

1. Blaine Gabbert-Missouri 6’ 4’’ 236 lbs 4.62 40 Junior

Gabbert is the most polished and NFL ready quarterback in this years draft class. He has great size as well as great speed, and can make every throw that a NFL quarterbacks needs to make. One knock on Gabbert is that in the Missouri offense there were only a few reads for him to make, and if you watch the game tape there are some points where his primary and secondary receiver are covered and he decides to run, but the third option is wide open on the weak side of the field.  Coming from a shotgun spread offense does throw up some concerns, but during the combine and pro day process he has shown that he has the footwork and poise to be able to run a NFL style offense.

His numbers did drop from his sophomore season to his junior campaign, but that is no need for concern. He is in almost the exact same position as Sam Bradford was in just a year ago, and we all can agree that Sam Bradford transitioned to the NFL pretty smoothly. Gabbert should be the first quarterback taken in this draft, and where ever he goes he will be battling for the starting job. Look for Gabbert to get scooped up within the top 5 picks, either to Carolina or Buffalo, and even if neither of those teams take him, he should not drop that far because 9 of the top 12 teams can make a case for needing a quarterback.

2. Jake Locker-Washington 6’2’’ 231 lbs 4.59 40 Senior

If this was last years draft, Locker would be at the top of everyone’s draft boards, but he decided to stay for his senior year, and that didn’t help him at all. He has played in an NFL style offense for the past 2 years, and has shown that he can be a great quarterback, but he has also shown at times that he can be a less than average quarterback. He has great athleticism, speed, arm strength and vision. He can throw on the run as well as drop back and stay in the pocket, and when he decides to tuck the ball in and run, he is just like a running back and knows exactly how to run the ball. One downside to Locker is that when he did play against some good teams, like Nebraska for example, he showed some signs that most NFL teams did not like, when he only completed 4 completions out of 20 attempts and showed a lot of inconsistency during the game.

Locker will most likely get picked up by a team with a veteran quarterback, letting him come in and learn the whole offense and watch a veteran play and let him get ready so he is not rushed into the starting quarterback position. When he does finally become a starting quarterback in the NFL, he has the tools to be a very effective quarterback, if he can stay consistent.

3. Ryan Mallet-Arkansas 6’6’’ 238 lbs 5.37 40 Junior

Mallet is a big quarterback, the tallest quarterback in this draft. He has a rocket for an arm, and has no problem making any and every throw in the NFL. He is the absolute definition of a gun slinger, throwing every pass and sometimes trying to hard to fit the ball between 2 or sometimes 3 receivers. He is not a very mobile quarterback, but when he stands in the pocket he can use his size to be able to see the whole field with ease since he is taller than almost every guard and center in the NFL now. In the pocket he doesn’t just stand there and not move, he can escape the rush and still keep his eyes downfield, but being as big as Mallet is does cause concern for him being able to set his feet and make an accurate throw.

Mallet is someone who is a first round pick if a team decides to take a quarterback, but he needs to learn how to be a good leader, because during the interview process there were signs on immaturity but under the right guidance he will mature quickly.

4. Cameron Newton-Auburn 6’5’’ 244 lbs 4.6 40 Junior

Newton is the player in this draft with the biggest upside, but also he carries the biggest risk as well. He has a strong arm and great pocket presence, as well as being able to throw the ball very well on the run. He can escape the rush in the pocket and is very hard to take down just like big Ben Rothelisberger. There are a few concerns for NFL teams to look for. Newton played in a total shotgun offense, and he really did not make a lot of NFL throws and really didn’t run any plays that are the typical NFL type play. Also, he has only played one full season in college as a quarterback, so the maturity is also a big issue. He has proven he can deal with off field issues this past season, which is a plus because he knows how to deal with all of the media. The things that he will need to show teams in the days leading up to the draft is his mechanics and his footwork, because in a shotgun offense you don’t need to really drop back as effectively as being under center.

Newton will be a top ten pick, but I put him at the 4^th ranked quarterback because there are big risks that come with drafting him. If he is able to prove that he can run an NFL type offense and stay consistent with his throws and stay poised, he will be a very effective player in the league, but be warned everybody, be ready to see the second coming of Jamarcus Russell as well.

5. Christian Ponder-Florida State 6’2’’ 229 lbs 4.65 40 Senior

Ponder is my sleeper in this draft class to really shine and become the best quarterback out of all of the quarterbacks. He played at Florida State under hall of fame coach Bobby Bowden, and even when Jimbo Fisher took over the head coaching job, Ponder really showed his leadership and the team really did not have one of those down years as they change coaches. He has great field vision, and even better pocket presence. He can get the ball out in a hurry, and also knows when to tuck the ball in and run with his great running ability. He arm is not as strong as Mallet or Gabbert, but he is very accurate and consistent. He played in an offense that he needed to drop back as well as be in the shotgun, and he has shown that his footwork is very good.

Ponder could sneak into the first round but most likely will be a second or third round pick, but under the right guidance and coaching staff this quarterback can really blossom into a Pro Bowl caliber quarterback.

6. Andy Dalton-TCU 6’2’’ 215 lbs 4.87 40 Senior

Andy Dalton took a “mid-major” college and really threw them into the spotlight in college football over the past few years. He has a good arm, and he can make people miss in the pocket as well as throw the ball well on the run. He is very consistent and a very accurate quarterback. The only concerns is that in the Mountain West Conference, he played against some teams that some people think are easy teams to play against compared to the SEC or Big 12 teams. If he can show that he is not a quarterback that just feasted on lower level defenses he can be a late round pick and possibly flourish as a quarterback in the NFL, but regardless he will be a very effective backup for many years in the NFL.

7. Colin Kapernick-Nevada 6’4’’ 233 lbs 4.53 40 Senior

Kapernick is a very raw quarterback, but also shows a lot of upside. He has a good arm, but his mobility will be the thing that gets him drafted. He has a very lean frame, and will need to put on some weight if he wants to survive a full season in the NFL with all the hits that come with playing quarterback. He played in the pistol offense, so there is major concern about him transitioning and running an NFL offense. If the quarterback position does not work out for Kapernick, moving positions to wide receiver is a very big possibility for this prospect. He has the size and speed to be able to be an effective WR in the NFL, but if he gets the right coaching he may be able to develop into a NFL quarterback.  Look for him to get drafted in the later rounds, and be a project for whatever team drafts him.

8. Pat Devlin-Delaware 6’3’’ 225 lbs 4.86 40 Senior

Devlin comes from Delaware; the same school that Joe Flacco came out of just a few years ago. Devlin is not as NFL ready as Flacco was coming out of college, but Devlin is a very good prospect for a late round draft pick. He has a good arm and he has good size for a NFL quarterback, but his consistency is questionable and is something that he is going to need to work on. If a team is willing to take a chance in the later rounds to draft Devlin, they will most likely need to take a few years to mold him into an NFL ready quarterback, but some team will over draft this quarterback because of the success that Flacco has had in the NFL through his short career so far.

9. Nathan Enderle-Idaho 6’4’’ 240 lbs 5.15 40 Senior

Enderle is one of the smartest quarterbacks in this year’s draft class. He played at least 9 games all 4 years of his career at Idaho, and has shown that he is a great leader and very passionate about the game of football. He has a very strong arm, and has great pocket presence, and even if he does get pushed out of the pocket he is able to still make an accurate throw downfield. One concern about this quarterback is his slow release as well as his consistency and sometimes his accuracy as well. He will most likely get drafted between the 6^th and 7^th round, as some team will possibly take a draft pick to draft this project quarterback.

10. Ricky Stanzi-Iowa 6’4’’ 223 lbs 4.93 40 Senior

Ricky Stanzi can be one of the steals in this year’s draft. He has great size for an NFL quarterback at 6 foot 4, and he is a lot a decent mobile quarterback as well. He has played in a pro style offense his whole career at Iowa, so the transition to the NFL will be a lot easier for Stanzi than for other quarterbacks. Excellent pocket presence; he is able to scan the field and find his third and sometimes fourth options in the passing game. His footwork is something that needs a lot of work. He tends to throw the ball flat-footed and off balance. He also tends to take a lot of sacks during his career, so his timing and getting the ball off is another issue. Stanzi will be drafted somewhere in the mid rounds, and he will most likely be in the NFL for a long time as a backup and possibly a starter.

11. Tyrod Taylor-Virginia Tech 6’0’’ 217 lbs 4.51 40 Senior

The best dual threat quarterback we have seen since Michael Vick came out of Virginia Tech. Has great running ability and great mobility outside of the pocket. Very strong arm, and very accurate in the short range passing attack, and does not lose any accuracy while rolling out left or right. He can throw, run, and also catch the football. Has very quick feet and is a very agile athlete, and can break tackles without breaking a stride. Will be very hard to tackle one on one in the open field in the NFL. He still needs some work on the touch passes down the field, because he tends to try to rifle the ball in instead of airing it out and leading receivers into open spaces. Could also be a very effective wide receiver in the NFL if playing quarterback does not work out, or could even be a very effective wildcat quarterback.

12. Greg McElroy-Alabama 6’1’’ 212 lbs 4.97 40

A natural born winner, at one point in his career he had not lost a football game since the 8^th grade. A very smart quarterback, he has Rich Gannon like accuracy with the short range passes, but not a real strong arm to be able to really stretch the field. A great leader, look for McElroy to get picked up around the 4^th round, but if teams take quarterbacks early and often, McElroy could sneak up to the 2^nd round.

13.  Scott Tolzien-Wisconsin 6’2’’ 212 lbs 4.93 40 Senior

Tolzien has played in an NFL style offense his whole career at Wisconsin, and is a great game-manager. He is a very smart player, getting Academic All-Big Ten honors his senior year, as well as winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award. Has great field vision, and rarely makes a mistake on his reads. He does not really feel the pressure in the pocket as well as coaches would hope, and that results in him taking a lot of sacks and unnecessary hits.

14. Jerrod Johnson-Texas A&M 6’4’’ 243 lbs 4.70 40 Junior

A very big quarterback who has a great arm and even better running ability. Has great mobility and is very hard to take down alone. Is able to create space and accurately throw the ball downfield to receivers. Very inconsistent at times and decision making could be a lot better than it is right now. Played in a shotgun heavy offense in college so will need to work on his footwork and drop back ability.

15. Ben Chappell-Indiana 6’3’’ 239 lbs 4.82 40 Senior

A very strong armed quarterback, but sometimes takes unnecessary risks. Can fit a football into any window to get the ball to the receiver, but sometimes forces the ball into traffic. His mechanics in his throwing motion is a concern due to his long release, but when given time to throw the ball he can be deadly accurate.

16. T.J. Yates-North Carolina 6’3’’ 219 lbs 5.10 40 Senior

A very football smart player who can figure out a defense before the defense figures itself out. Can put the ball exactly where it needs to be to complete the pass, but also when things do not go well he has been known to have a bit of a temper. Possibly another Ryan Leaf type attitude player.

17.  Mike Hartline-Kentucky 6’6’’ 210 lbs 4.78 40 Senior

Very slender frame but also a very tall quarterback, so he can see the whole field with ease. Has a decent arm and can manage the game without making that many mistakes.

18. Josh Portis-California(PA) 6’2’’ 211 lbs 4.62 40 Senior

A jack of all trades type of quarterback. Big strong and fast player who has a decent arm. Can also play WR if QB does not work out for him.

19. Taylor Potts-Texas Tech 6’3’’ 220 lbs 4.95 40 Senior

Potts comes from a pass happy offense at Texas Tech, so transition to a drop offense may be a challenge for him. Has a good arm and decent pocket presence.

20. Kevin Riley-California 6’2’’ 224 lbs 4.90 40 Senior

Riley played a lot of games during his career at Cal, but has problems with accuracy and consistently.

21. Jeff Van Camp-Florida Atlantic 6’5’’ 222 lbs 4.92 40 Senior

A good game manager with a decent arm, but lacks leadership.

22. Adam Froman-Lousiville 6’3’’ 220 lbs 4.52 40 Senior

23. Chris Dieker-Southern Illinois

24. Mitch Mustain-USC 6’3’’ 200 lbs 4.80 40 Senior

25. Trevor Vittatoe-Texas El Paso 6’2’’ 220 lbs 4.72 40 Senior

26. Austen Arnaud-Iowa State 6’2’’ 226 lbs 4.60 40 Senior

27. Michael Herrick-Northern Arizona 6’0’’ 209 lbs 5.00 40 Senior

28. Carson Coffman-Kansas State 6’2’’ 205 lbs 4.95 40 Senior

29. Drew Hubel-Portland State 6’4’’ 205 lbs 5.00 40 Senior

30. Josh Nesbitt-Georgia Tech 6’0’’ 217 lbs 4.68 40 Senior

31. Ryan Colburn-Fresno State 6’2’’ 220 4.75 40 Senior

32. Ross Jenkins-Louisiana Tech 6’2’’ 212 4.75 40 Senior

33. Justin Roper-Montana 6’6’’ 220 lbs 4.80 40 Senior

34. Eric Watt-Trine 6’3’’ 200 lbs 4.75 40 Senior

35. Eric Czerniewski-Central Missouri State 5’1’’ 190 lbs 4.90 40 Senior

36. Josh Boudreaus-Arkansas-Pine Bluff 6’3’’ 234 lbs 4.64 40 Senior

37. Ricky Dobbs-Navy 6’0’’ 203 lbs 4.50 40 Senior

38. Zac Lee-Nebraska 6’1’’ 215 lbs 4.80 40 Senior

39. Keiffer Garton-Penn 6’2’’ 200 lbs 4.80 40 Senior

40. Cameron Higgins-Weber State 6’1’’ 211 lbs 4.85 40 Senior

Former Giants LB Pepper Johnson

Every body loves a “hot” coordinator.  And right now every body loves Perry Fewell…including San Francisco, Cleveland, Denver, & Carolina!

So, if the man who put the “Crunch” back into “Crunch Bunch” leaves for a well deserved head coaching job…who’s on the Hot Seat to take his place on the sidelines for the Giants in 2011?   If you look at history…Tom Coughlin usually keeps things close to the vest, utilizing coaches he is already familiar with.

Some have coached for him…some have coached against him, but I don’t see him leaning too far from the center of road.  If the position bcomes available there are a few names that have already jumped out as leading candidates.

1.  Pepper Johnson – 1986 2nd round draft pick of the New York Giants from Ohio State.   The 2x time pro-bowl linebacker was big, nasty, and athletic.   He played 7 great seasons for the Giants and was a member of both the Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV winning teams, under head coach Bill Parcells and assistant coach Bill Belichick .

Pepper has coached under Belichick for the New England Patriots for 10 years, specializing in Linebackers & the Defensive Line. With a lot of hardware to show, it’s easy to see that Belichick believes there’s something special in Johnson.  Pepper brings passionate.  A great candidate!

2. Dick Jauron - currently the senior assistant/defensive backs coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.  What does that title even mean?

Jauron never made it as a head coach as he struggled with some very bad teams including the Bears, the Lions(interim) and the Bills over the past 6 years; however, Dick does have a very successful coaching connection to one, Tom Coughlin.   From 1995 through 1998 Dick Jauron was the Defensive Coordinator for the”expansion” Jacksonville Jaguars.   There he coached under Tom Coughlin.

In four years Dick took the Jags defense to the playoffs 3 times and in 1996 the fierce Jags defensive went all the way to the AFC Championship Game.    Jauron is not your typical coach…he was also a very good player.   Dick went to Yale and was drafted by the Lions in the 4th round to play free  safety and tackled a few years in Cincinnati before retiring with 25 interceptions and two touchdowns.

#3 John Fox - The Giants Defensive Coordinator (1997 to 2001) might be a nice fit for a return since being terminated by the Carolina Panthers this week..   Originally from San Diego…John Fox could bring back some old magic with a much more talented group of players than he had back in late 90′s.

However, he might have an itch to go West as Oakland and San Francisco are also in need of a head coach.  Fox is still considered young at 55 and has a great body of work.   Fox took the Giants to the Super Bowl as their Defensive Coordinator in 2000 and the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2003.   In 2005 and again in 2008 he went to the AFC Championship.

Out
HC Tom Coughlin: While ragging on Coughlin has been an overused go-to option for writers and pundits league wide lately, the blade is swinging ever closer to his neck after yesterday’s loss. There is an argument for keeping him of course. His tenure thus far in New York has been an upgrade from a bleak stretch of time in the team’s history that spanned from 1992 through 2003. After a rebuilding period in 2004, Coughlin fielded an overall competitive squad from 2005 through 2008 and obviously brought New York an impressive Super Bowl win. But things have not been quite the same for the Giants since jumping out to an 11-1 start in 2008. Following up a Super Bowl run with 3 months of utterly dominant football, the Giants stumbled at home against Philadelphia that season and ultimately lost to the Eagles again in their first appearance of the playoffs. 2009 saw a 5-0 start turn into a 3-5 finish and 2010 saw a historical single game collapse, an unspeakable rash of turnovers, and an overall failure to execute on special teams. Coughlin, who is historically quite reliable when it comes to challenges, blew the Giants final challenge of yesterday’s game on an obvious unfavorable ruling and thus was unable to protest against at a late Eli interception on a key drive that was clearly caught out of bounds.

With the Giants now needing help from Chicago to stumble into the playoffs (a tournament that they really don’t deserve a spot in), Coughlin’s time here may be up. The X-factor is the single year remaining (after this season) on his contract. The Giants would prefer not to allow a head coach to continue his duty with no job security ahead of him (lame duck situation) and with Coughlin’s age and recent performance mixing into the equation, it does not appear that the front office will be willing to recommit to him long term. This is especially true with NFL icon and multiple Super Bowl winning coach Bill Cowher expressing a serious interest in returning to work. Cowher, also a tough-minded coach and proponent of ground game football, would be the perfect fit for a team stocked with talent and ready to be serious contenders immediately. The Giants fit that description. When Coughlin took them over, they declared roster bankruptcy and rebuilt. There will be no need for major overhauls this time and Cowher has expressed interest in being the Giants next leader.

ST Tom Quinn/OC Kevin Gilbride: With Coughlin likely on his way out, these coordinators won’t be far behind. You can make an argument to save Gilbride’s job but the play calling hasn’t been stellar or even consistently effective for that matter. Quinn on the other hand is done regardless. Forget Matt Dodge’s struggles, those are out of the coordinator’s hands. Blocking on specials has been atrocious in 2010. Don’t blame the lack of production on losing Domenik Hixon or the ineffectiveness of Darius Reynaud. Even explosive returners like DJ Ware, Will Blackmon, and Aaron Ross were unable to find any room to make a play this year. Both of these guys will be replaced by whoever the new coach (Cowher) brings in.

C Shaun O’hara: Once a poster boy for a franchise that prides itself on swampland Jersey roots and conservative/hardnosed play, Hillsborough product Shaun O’hara was the key cog on a stellar offensive line. Times have changed. The aging center who arrived in 2004 as part of the revamped Giants roster, sat out 6 games this season due to injury. His absence, despite occurring during a plague of O-line injuries, was actually not a blow to the team’s offensive performance. With Adam Koets and then eventually Rich Seubert proving to be suitable alternates, Shan Andrews and Kevin Boothe helped shore up the left side. It was during this time that both Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs starting enjoying consistent rushing success. O’hara will be entering his 12th NFL season and while he will only be 34 years old, it may be time for him to move on to another squad at least. Barely making it through training camp in 2010, O’hara appears to have “lost a step” on the field and is unable to generate enough momentum to sustain key blocks on the interior. While Adam Koet’s trip to IR denied the Giants an extended look at his abilities and thus a replacement isn’t necessarily on the roster yet, it is very likely that the Rutger’s alum will not be in a Giant uniform in 2011.

KR Darius Reynaud: Acquired in a trade with the Vikings that was the result of a sudden need for Sage Rosenfels following Jim Sorgi’s trip to IR, Reynaud was expected to be an apt fill-in for Domenik Hixon. Instead, Reynaud (who was tossed into the deal with New York as an afterthought) could barely handle signaling for a fair catch let alone muster a sizeable return. Unlike Hixon, he is not an effective option as a receiver either. The writing was on the wall today when Coughlin opted to sit Reynaud despite the unavailability of a true PR option today because of Will Blackmon’s injury. Don’t count on Reynaud making an appearance in camp next spring.

WR Michael Clayton: If he hasn’t been used as a receiver yet, it is unlikely he ever will. So far, Clayton’s contributions have been limited to blocking on run plays and special teams duties. It is hard to imagine him being a part of a crowded receiver competition next spring.

WR Duke Calhoun: Calhoun didn’t make the roster as a receiver. He squeaked into the 53rd spot because the Giants felt he could be a solid contributor on special teams because of his athletic build and quickness. They were wrong. If he couldn’t stand out this year, a season where no one had stepped up until Michael Coe and Devin Thomas came to town in late November, he is expendable for next year.

QB Jim Sorgi: Sorgi was brought in to be the immediate backup behind Eli Manning. Though he wasn’t given much time to show his stuff, his body of work in the preseason was not impressive before his injury. Ideally, a veteran backup QB has playing experience and Sorgi doesn’t since he spent the bulk of his career behind the other Manning in Indianapolis. A damaged arm and no real experience won’t be enough to bring him back.

FB Madison Hedgecock: See Bear Pascoe.

DE/OLB Mathias Kiwanuka: The neck injury that Kiwanuka suffered is very similar to what ended the career of a relatively young Antonio Pierce during the 2009 season. Therefore, not only is Kiwi out, he quite possibly will never play professional football again. This is a blow for the Giants because you would have to think that they were hoping to not have to worry too much about the DE position after spending several high draft picks on it recently. However, the key to the Giants defensive success (when they don’t collapse) is rotating pass rushers so that they stay fresh throughout the season and ideally playoffs. With Osi Umenyiora admitting that his chronic hip problems will eventually force him to take time away from the game, the Giants may very well be down to Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck as the main event with just Dave Tollefson in 3rd. Either a draft a pick or a free agent pickup will be needed to round out this position group should Kiwanuka be unable to return.

Bubble
WR/KR Domenik Hixon: I know it seems crazy to think the Giants wouldn’t want him back after a disastrous season in the return game….and I agree it is. Of course the Giants will want to find a way to resign the soon to be FA Hixon. The catch is, Hixon may not want to return. Hixon started training camp in 2009 as a starting receiver opposite Steve Smith. He had shown flashes of potential at the position in ’08 but also had a key drop in a fateful game against Philadelphia as December began. Mario Manningham’s quick transformation from bumbling rookie to nifty threat with Amani Toomer-like footwork eventually sent Hixon back to the reserve ranks behind Hakeem Nicks. He headed into 2010’s camp as a star return man but governed by a 4th at best opportunity on the depth chart. Assuming that he makes a full recovery from his ACL injury (if it ever will fully heal it will be before camp because the injury will be over 13 months old by then), Hixon could find himself receiving attention from other teams that have openings at the second and third receiver positions. Teams like the Rams, Browns and Bears among several others could all use some help at receiver. Many of the options will be legitimate contenders but even if they aren’t, the young Hixon already has a Super Bowl ring to fall back on and a chance to do more than return might lure him away from Jerry Reese’s best maneuvers. He’s on the bubble because the Giants will do everything they can to keep him but his status is far from certain. The next bubble selection will have a lot to do with Hixon’s future.

WR Steve Smith: Steve Smith followed up a career year in ’09 with a slower but steady start in 2010. Teaming with Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham, Smith rounded out the top three receiving rotation referred to as “Jet Blue.” Before injuring his pectoral muscle in November, Smith had transitioned to a more possession type role and served as Eli’s main target when short gains were needed to move the chains. He wasn’t considerably tall or the fastest receiver on the field but his reliable hands (especially in traffic) helped draw defenders’ attention away from the explosive Nicks and Manningham. His latest injury, an MCL tear, could possibly keep him out until next preseason or later. Even then, his conditioning/speed/cutting ability may be still hampered. Add in the fact that he was playing in the final year of his rookie contract this season and his status is now a big question mark. What do the Giants do if Smith is unready to compete in training camp? What if he will be available but not quite 100% ready talent wise until 2012? Even if his job is claimed to be open for him when he can return, a strong showing by another receiver in training camp (a receiver that is healthy and ready to contribute immediately) won’t be ignored or unrewarded.

If Smith won’t be 100% ready for a return by July, the most likely scenario will be that he signs a 1 year deal with the Giants (they won’t want to give him away for free and other teams will not be as willing to shell out a big contract yet) and begins the season on the PUP with hopes of returning by November and earning a long term deal with New York or another club in 2012. His absence would create a hole in the top 3 rotation, a role that Hixon may stick around to fight for. Even then however, he will be battling a healthy Ramses Barden who will be given a shot to earn a more prominent role. Barden may ultimately be the better option over Smith anyway because of his size. If he can stay injury and mistake free (if his pre-injury performance against Dallas was an accurate preview), a big target for Manning to throw to could persuade the Giants to downgrade Smith’s offensive role. As the past two seasons have shown, Manning plays better down the stretch when he has a tall receiver that he can just throw the ball somewhat towards to bail him out of a jam.

WR Derek Hagan: Despite being cut after camp this season, Hagan was rushed back to duty after Steve Smith and Ramses Barden were injured. While Hagan lacks the speed and big play ability of the current “Jet Blue” trio, he has reliable hands and is quite sizable for a receiver. He is on the bubble because as a receiver, he’s the equivalent of a QB saddled with the label of “game manager.” He won’t lose the game for you, but he won’t necessarily win it either. Should Barden prove that he’s finally learned how to catch the ball consistently and that he can stay out of the trainer’s office, the quota for large Big Blue receivers might be filled without Hagan.

LB Keith Bulluck: The accomplished OLB from Syracuse made a name for himself in Tennessee after a decade of terrorizing offenses. A year ago he suffered an ACL injury and likely signed on with the Giants this summer before it had fully healed. Allowed to play his natural outside position after Jonathan Goff proved himself in August, Bulluck is currently near the end of a 1 year deal with his hometown team. The Giants had hoped that Clint Sintim would progress this year to the point that he could be utilized as a starting weak side backer but instead the UVA alum took a step back and was contributed mainly on special teams until his own ACL injury ended his season two weeks ago. Moral of story, Bulluck may get invited to stick around while the Giants give Sintim one more year to groom. If Sintim is healthy enough to return on time for camp, the Giants won’t likely feel comfortable handing him the keys before a couple months of marked improvement. If Bulluck wants to keep playing, the Giants should be happy to have him

DC Perry Fewell: He’s on the bubble because his performance throughout the majority of the season was quite impressive and a better position may open up elsewhere. However, his December collapse will likely keep him from obtaining a head coaching position for a bit longer.

In
QB Eli Manning: I know I’m stating the obvious here so hold on and let me explain. Manning’s overall successes between late 2007 and present day; including a Super Bowl win/MVP, a 11-1 start in 2008, an over 4,000 yard season in 2009, and 30 TD tosses in 2010; have helped cushion the blow of his over 20 interceptions this year. A franchise QB with a historically lucrative contract, Manning isn’t going anywhere in 2011. He is on this list because of his overall future.

Three years ago, the great debate regarding Eli and Peyton had serious fuel to burn with. Both Mannings had won their first and only Super Bowls thus far in consecutive years. Eli had engineered a once in a lifetime miracle drive that helped beat the highly favored team that had also tried to stand in the way of Peyton’s Super Bowl hopes only a year before. The younger brother had also managed to glide through three playoff games without so much an intercepted pass (no really, take my word for it). His lone Super Bowl interception was the result of a ball thrown directly into the chest of a rookie Steve Smith who simply bobbled the ball into a defender’s grasp. As I’ve already gone over, 2008 was an overall success despite a late season loss of momentum and 2009 saw Eli have the best statistical season of his career despite a dismal record 8-8 record. But now, not only are the Giants caving inward, their QB’s 30 touchdown passes are nearly rivaled by his 26 turnovers. Peyton on the other hand has overcome mid season struggles to right the ship of a shambled offense and place the Colts within one win of the playoffs. A poor statistical showing for Eli in 2011 (especially one plagued with poor decisions and turnovers) could be a large straw on a tiring camel’s back. Perhaps placing Eli on the bubble this time next year won’t seem like a crazy notion if his falters carry into a consecutive season. True, a lot of improvement is needed from his targets and route runners, but improvement must occur for Manning to see the end of his blockbuster contract.

TE Kevin Boss: Why is Boss in question? Inconsistency. Boss has the size and wingspan needed to be a Pro Bowl caliber TE. Unfortunately, mental mistakes severely hampered him this season. After a minor bump in the road on the injury front early in the season, Boss has proven to be more durable than ever in 2010. Unfortunately he has also proven to be a slow starter. While he may make a clutch catch or a big play somewhat regularly, that big play usually follows a bad first half of dropped balls and other slip ups. Against Jacksonville, for example, Boss dropped two passes and committed a critical holding penalty that erased a Manningham TD early on. He would later rebound to make the game winning score after a brilliant stiff arm move. He’s big and tall and that’s just how Manning likes him. He’s unquestionably tough and a great ambassador for the team on and off the field but he needs polish. Boss would be well served to spend several weekends this offseason tossing the ball around with Eli so that he can master his craft and have a breakout 2011. The Giants need upgraded play at the TE position.

G/C Rich Seubert: Many wrote Seubert off going into this season. The longest tenured Giant and a fan favorite, Seubert fought back from a severely fractured leg in 2003 to return to the starting lineup four years later at left guard. As part of one of the most dominant offensive lines of all time, Seubert took home a Super Bowl title in 2007 and helped both Derrick Ward and Brandon Jacobs reach the 1000 yard rushing milestone in 2008. After playing through pain in 2009 and suffering a broken hand in training camp this August amidst talk of sending him to the bench in favor of Will Beatty, the veteran lineman rivals Kenny Phillips for comeback of the year. Not only did he hold down his starting guard spot, he also proved to be a more than serviceable center when both Shaun O’hara and Adam Koets were lost. While his partner, O’hara is likely headed towards the door, Seubert may just have made a big enough impression to ensure a shot at next year’s starting O-line as well. That said, his presence on next year’s roster may once again be as a backup as the Giants will be eager to give Shawn Andrews an opportunity to entrench himself as a long-term option inside of David Diehl.

RB Brandon Jacobs: It looked like the 265 lb monster was headed towards the door earlier this season when a dismal 2009 and a demotion in 2010 left the big back looking more and more like Ron Dayne every snap. A mid to late season surge in the running game thanks to the contributions of both he and Ahmad Bradshaw will likely help keep Jacobs in a Giants uniform. However, New York would be wise to pick up some insurance for their feature backs. That insurance may already be on the roster in DJ Ware but don’t be surprised to see New York look to bolster this position group in the draft. Also, Bradshaw will obviously be offered a contract extension shortly (scheduled to be a FA) and there is no reason yet to believe that he won’t opt to stay with the Giants should they meet his salary requirements.

WR Devin Thomas: In 2008, Thomas was a rising star out of Michigan State who was looking to make a name for himself on the Redskins roster. Small but versatile, the athletic Thomas has lots of potential and was reportedly high on the Giants draft board but was made unavailable before they were able to select him. After barely more than two lackluster seasons, the Redskins released Thomas a couple months ago. After a couple week stint in Carolina, Thomas was released again and eventually added to the Giants roster to help shore up a battered receiving corps. He made an impact in his first game in a blue jersey, ironically against Washington. He blocked a punt deep in the opponent’s territory and provided a special teams spark that the team has been lacking overall throughout the season. Thomas will be likely be offered a short contract extension to see what he can do both on offense as well as on special teams with a full training camp of playbook memorization behind him. Thomas should have a legitimate shot at becoming a major weapon in the passing game next season. While the Giants may not be a long-term fit for him, he will need a place like New York to establish himself as a good investment for other offenses.

WR Victor Cruz: It is unfortunate that a rash of injuries at other positions forced the Giants to place Cruz on IR instead of letting him wait out a hamstring injury. Being activated only for games that already featured a healthy top 4 receivers, Cruz was not given much opportunity to show if he could run with first string defenses. The answer would have likely been no. While the young player displayed great ball skills and impressive speed against 3rd string opposition this past August, he has yet to be tested against skilled defensive backs. Still, he is explosive and likely full of potential talent waiting to be tapped. The Giants like him and the fans will riot if he gets cut without another season to prove himself. Who knows…with Smith hampered he could very well be a future Giants starter. Regardless of his depth chart positioning though he will be returning in ’11.

FB Bear Pascoe: He’s earned it folks. Despite getting cut after camp in favor of a 1 ½ TE roster (Travis Beckum), Pascoe found himself quickly called back into duty from the lowly practice squad when Kevin Boss suffered a concussion. What could have been a brief tour of duty on the main roster became a long-term stay when Madison Hedgecock went down with a hamstring injury. Pascoe filled in beautifully at fullback and provided more than just reliable run blocking. Pascoe’s skills as a tight end gave him the ability to provide the out of the backfield threat that the Giants had always tried to get from Hedgecock. Eventually banished to IR, it is unlikely Hedgecock returns to the Giants in 2011. Pascoe won’t be going anywhere and the Giants never spend a roster spot on a true backup FB.

P Matt Dodge: Dodge has talent. What he doesn’t have is consistency. For those of you (like me) who are worried that if he isn’t comfortable by now he may never be, I have a small piece of consolation. Think about how many young, inexperienced punters you’ve seen in the league (compared to all other positions) over the past couple of decades. There haven’t been many. Most of us are accustomed to experienced veterans handling their jobs well. Only time will tell if that will eventually be Dodge. He’ll get one more year to settle down and my guess is that he’ll have a successful campaign next in 2011.

The results speak for itself as New York stomped Seattle in a 41-7 rout. However, as mentioned earlier this evening, the victory had casualties. Both Diehl and Adam Koets (who spelled Seubert multiple times at C), suffered injuries. While the severity of the injuries are still unknown, the theme will likely be recurring in the near future.

Shaun O’Hara is not getting any younger or healthier. A Pro Bowler, team leader, and local product, O’hara has been a key member of the organization since arriving in 2005. Now, he is out indefinitely with a similar injury to the one that ended Strahan’s 2006 campaign prematurely. It is not likely that the Giants will continue to pay out a Pro Bowler’s salary in 2011 for an ailing player. Moving to the left, Seubert has enjoyed a resurgence so far this season. After experiencing a sharp drop off in his level of play last year, the longest tenured Giant has helped Ahmad Bradshaw become one of the top backs in the league. That said, he too is not getting any younger. Entering the NFL in 2001, Seubert missed a season in a half when he broke his leg during a 2003 showdown with Philadelphia. Seubert reentered the starting lineup in 2007 and has been a stalwart since.

It is quite conceivable that Seubert will remain with the Giants for another season, but when it is time to fill his spot, Mitch Petrus should be a welcome addition. An Arkansas graduate, the rookie G is built just like Seubert. Displaying unbridled passion and intensity, Petrus can be seen running down the sidelines to encourage Giants ball carriers as they advance downfield. Today he could be seen sprinting to the huddle to take his first regular season snaps in an offensive formation. Petrus figures to be the next guard to play opposite  Snee.

The tackle spots will become clearer after the season. Will Beatty has been a disappointment thus far and perhaps this has bought Kareem McKenzie more time in blue. Shawn Andrews may have something to say about that though. Andrews played well in his starting debut and if Diehl can avoid more struggles, there just may be Diehl-Andrews bookends for the O-line in ’11.

You know, I love speculation, but it was interesting to see a glimpse of several players at different spots yesterday.

Though Kiwanuka would have been a welcome addition to the Super Bowl run, there was little doubt he would return for the ’08 campaign. This time around, things are not as certain. Kiwanuka is not under contract for the 2011 season and even if he was, he is  dealing with a potentially career ending injury.

With the success that the Giants defense has enjoyed without Kiwanuka, and the steady emergence of young Jason Pierre-Paul, the Giants may not be in the market for the ailing DE’s services next year.

On a similar note: Keep an eye on the Domenik Hixon situation. The former Akron standout is certainly missed in the return game, but would likely find himself stuck at 4th receiver if not worse should he return next season. No longer under contract when free agency begins, do not be surprised if he looks to take his talents elsewhere in hopes of seeing legitimate time at receiver. The Giants will obviously want to retain him, but he just may be out of their price range if he gets interest from teams with less receiver depth.

“Great week of preparation for NYG, now just gotta execute and play physical G-men football!”- Terrell Thomas via Twitter

Not to state the obvious but he’s right.  Nearly a week removed from the “Indy Incident,” the Giants have to regroup. Here’s how:

1. Ralph Vacchiano wrote this morning that the key to defensive success against Titans RB Chris Johnson is high level play from the linebackers. I couldn’t agree more. But while I haven’t been overwhelmed by any of them yet, my focus is on Jonathan Goff. Playing in a defense that looked like sleep walkers, Goff looked like he was still tucked in last week. He’s behind the play too often and a back like Chris Johnson will make you pay dearly.

Michael Boley’s play should also be an interesting variable. It is no secret that the Giants haven’t been thrilled with the fact that Boley has been a cornerback in training. He plays the pass well but his run game hasn’t been impressive during his time in blue. That said, CJ2K has unique speed instead of bulldozing power and a nifty player like Boley may be just what the Giants need to help contain him.

2. Adam Koets needs to have the mindset of a woman in labor because the interior line is going to have to push and push hard. I fully expect David Diehl to perform well now that Dwight Freeney isn’t his assignment but if Koets proves to be a liability in his first real NFL action, the run game could once again be stalled. For those of you wondering why Riche Seubert isn’t moving to center and letting Shawn Andrews see some time, the Giants feel that he hasn’t had enough time to learn the offense cold yet. Don’t be shocked to see him enter the game though if things get sloppy behind Koets.

3. Kevin Boss is back and that can only mean good things. He may not make a ton of noise every game but his absence is all too noticeable when he’s on the sidelines. Expect the blocking quality to go up and for the field to be a bit more spread when he goes out for a pass.

4. The final key I’m going to give in this very simplified version of a game plan (Cuse vs Cortland this afternoon and the tailgate’s a’ callin) is to get to Vince Young early and rattle his cage. This could be in the form of a sack, pressure, or an early interception. This sounds obvious, I know, but Young is once again skidding and startling him early can only help.

Jason Pierre-Paul is the future of the Giant D-Line, but can he become the present? Photo Courtesy of the NY POST.

Justin Tuck will not be 100% and most feel that his injury is hurting him more than he is willing to let on. If that is the case, I expect to see a lot more JPP in this game (especially if the Titans begin to trail by multiple scores and attempt to pass). Pierre-Paul has been a force on special teams (a lone bright spot), and has imposed his will on those that try to stand in his way. I want to see more of what this kid can do because he clearly is a future starter on this D-Line.

Blackburn was more or less a lock to make the team if he stayed healthy.  For the past five years he has been a quality reserve player, occasional starter, and special teams standout.  The numbers game may hurt him though, as the Giants are likely to have several hard decisions to make when final cuts are due.

Followed by a blocked punt, the Giants haven’t looked exactly stellar thus far. The only consolation is the fact that it is only the first pre-season game.  If they look like this two weeks from now, there may be regular season implications.

For my first post I thought I would try to establish a rubric, so to speak, for my own dissatisfaction with the MLB situation.  I know it seems sometimes that I (Igs) am only seeing this thing from the ‘glass half empty’ perspective, but in truth there are a number of important angles that inform my reservations:

How close are the Giants?

This speaks more to the general draft and personnel philosophy. Do you see the Giants as a team trying to figure out how to make a championship run or a team that has already put all the pieces together and won a ring? Quite a few of the players the Giants have drafted in the past two seasons would suggest the former, players that were two to thee years away on draft day, like Ramses Barden, Travis Beckum, Linval Joseph, and of course, Jason Pierre-Paul.

If these developmental players were taken late in the draft, did not cost multiple picks, or were drafted to a team without needs, I would be more comfortable with them. But some of these guys were drafted in places where players that filled a need could have been taken, like maybe a middle linebacker.

Quality of depth

Do you agree, like much of the projections, that the Giants will find their next Mike backer in the depth chart? I think if you’re honest with yourself, many of the candidates just wont look viable. Let’s start with the completely unlikely. Gerris Wilkinson doesn’t have a chance. You just don’t take a guy that failed miserably at Will and expect him to become your next starting Mike, a position that requires greater lateral quickness, instincts, and a certain kind of smarts. Precedent-wise, has anyone ever failed so miserably at WLB and gone on to success at MLB?

Phillip Dillard was a productive college MLB. But he is a thumper. He’s a run-stopping specialist, great at filling, but not so great at covering TEs, slot receivers, and RBs. That’s a serious liability in a pro 4-3 defense, especially in a Tampa 2 system, where the MLB has a greater coverage responsibility. Linebackers like Dillard really can’t start unless they’re in a 3-4 playing next to another coverage MLB.

Then there’s Brian Kehl, who hasn’t quite flourished yet, but makes a lot of sense as Michael Boley’s understudy.  Again, just the fact that he has yet to be successful as a weakside linebacker is pretty much a guarantee that he can’t play the middle.

Johnathan Goff, Chase Blackburn, and my favorite dark horse, Micah Johnson are the three MLB prospects that have a realistic shot at starting. Blackburn just isn’t enough of an athlete and his lack of success at the position is well documented, though he brings some good veteran experience to the table.

Goff has questionable coverage skills and instincts. Johnson, the UDFA, has a chance to really emerge from this large group of backup players. Johnson nursed foot and knee injuries during a very productive 2009 campaign (105 Tackles, 51 Solo) and carried those injuries into the pre-draft period, which would explain a very slow 40-time.

Relevence of the MLB in the 4-3 system

How important is all this MLB talk anyway? John Fennelly proposes that the Giants organization places relatively low value on LBs. And I think he’s dead on.

Reese’s recent decisions indicate that he thinks the position is negligible. And it’s funny that Coughlin, this season’s sacrificial lamb, plays along, because he never had LBs in Jacksonville, and that team spent a lot of time not quite getting there. But I just can’t think of a successful Giants team that lacked great linebackers. From LT. Harry Carson, Carl Banks, to Jessie Armstead, Antonio Pierce and Kawika Mitchell.

I can’t think of one successful period in the modern history of the Giants where they haven’t had great LB play. So when did the organization adapt this ridiculous stance? Are they haunted by the ghost of LaVar Arrington?

Furthermore, though the Giants still have major question marks at DT, this is a relatively complete defense outside of this MLB. But in a 4-3, how viable is it to have a complete defense without the MLB that brings it all together, a Brian Urlacher, a Ray Lewis, a Gary Bracket, an… Antonio Pierce.

One has to question the wisdom of the great Jerry Reese for leaving this very strong defense without its quarterback, particularly when there were quite a few great candidates available in the draft, one of them a surefire 10 year starter: Sean Weatherspoon, Donald Washington, and Jamar Cheney among others. These guys actually fit in the Tampa-2 system.

We’ve discussed all these issues in the past on the Giants Blog on some level, and I’m sure all of us are holding out some kind of hope that things workout this season. And by “workout” I mean this team wins a Super Bowl. But if you can put all these angles together and not have just a little bit of apprehension about this season, then I have to wonder if you have a pulse.

Yesterday John Fennelly reported that Goff and Dillard are receiving the bulk of the MLB reps. So one would assume that Goff has emerged as the starter and Dillard as his backup. But one has to ask the question, emerged from what? From Gerris Wilkinson, Brian Kehl, Chase Blackburn, and two UDFAs?

I’m just not convinced. You have a very good 4-3 defense that lacks the most important cog, MLB, as well as some good leadership. Most of the candidates to start don’t look viable. Meanwhile, you’re fielding three RE, two that have proven to be a liability in the run game. Your GM doesn’t think it’s an issue. Maybe Coach Coughlin will cover all those offensive players making money in the middle of the field with a safety.

Oh wait. It’s 2010. Defenses don’t really get away with that kind of stuff anymore.