2012 NFL Draft News and Notes: East West Shrine Game Practice Notes
I did something similar over at www.withthefirstpick.com so you can swing over there and check out some of the other notes on players (the different squads and from different sites) but here are some practice notes from around the web because I myself am not at the practices
It looked like there was going to be the possibility of a breakthrough for UT Chattanooga QB B.J. Coleman today, as he seemed much more comfortable working from under center, balancing his feet and maintaining a more efficient base. Plus, he was more natural moving his feet in line with secondary targets early on and letting go of the football on time. However, as soon as the live bullets starting flying he had a tendency to fall off throws and would get narrow/upright in the lower half, limiting his accuracy.
Another player to watch out for is going to be Norte Dame Cornerback Robert Blanton who has terrific size. Here’s what Bunting had to say (well write) about him
It was a bit of a coming out party for Notre Dame CB Robert Blanton Wednesday. The taller, physical corner has had his fair share of struggles in off coverage this week. However, in press man this afternoon he did a nice job shooting his hand into contact, maintaining his footing and getting his head around quickly in order to locate the football. He did get a bit grabby at times, but he possesses the balance to create a burst out of his breaks and was tough to separate from in press coverage.
The biggest name in the game might be Pittsburgh OLB/DE Brandon Lindsey. Here’s what he had to say about Lindsey.
It was good to see Pittsburgh OLB Brandon Lindsey rush a little off the edge Wednesday during 1 on 1 drills. He showcased a good first step and even after one day looks the most natural of the group of pass rushers so far this week. He displays the ability to cleanly change directions off his speed rush and keep tackles off balance with the spin as well. However, he’s still not dynamic enough in any area of the game to warrant much more than mid-round pick.
One player that is having a huge camp is reportedly Coastal Carolina Cornerback Josh Norman who might have become a top 100 pick. You can click on the first link above to read about his day.
CBS Sports writer Dane Brugler breaks down some other prospects.
Well-traveled defensive lineman Akiem Hicks was impressive for a second successive day. Hicks played high school and junior college football in Sacramento, Calif., area. But after being at the center of a LSU recruiting controversy in 2010, he wound up playing for the University of Regina in Canada the past two seasons.
Hicks (6-5, 324 pounds) is one of the largest players on the field, but the most surprising aspect of his game is his impressive movement, showing nimble feet and fast hands. He definitely has some work to do before he is NFL-ready, but he has raw ability. Hicks isn’t a natural bender and has very ordinary initial explosion out of his stance. But he does have an 84-inch wingspan and used those long limbs to dominate blockers and prove to pro teams he should be drafted in April.
One under the radar offensive linemen prospect to watch out for is G Rishaw Johnson
Offensive guard Rishaw Johnson (California, Pa.) has shown why some feel he could be a top-120 pick. He has good thickness throughout his body and moves very well for his 309-pound frame with large, 11-inch mitts. Johnson, who has been practicing at right guard, spent a little too much time on the ground and is a bit of a bull in a china shop, but he stays balanced off the snap and looks to finish. He has some off-field questions, but showcased the raw skills in practice to develop into a pro backup, at worst.
Then here is Tony Pauline’s Pracitce report
Darius Hanks, WR, Alabama — Hanks’ stock has been moving north since his terrific performance in the BCS title game, and he kept the momentum going in St. Petersburg. Hanks is not fast, rather a sure-handed possession wideout. He ran good routes all week and used his frame to box out defenders from the action. Hanks’ 40 time will be the ultimate decider as to where he lands in the draft, but his play here has affirmed the opinion that he’ll be a solid fourth receiver at the next level.
Bryan Anger, P, California — Punters don’t usually impress at postseason bowl games, but then again none have the leg strength of Anger. To plainly state it, Anger kicked the stuffing out of balls every day. Watching his moon shots into the clear sky made eyes hurt. Anger now heads towards the draft as the top-rated punter.
The small-school tight end has been the jack of all trades the past two days. Igwenagu has lined up at tight end, H-back and as a lead blocking fullback. He’s done well at each position, showing a variety of skill. Igwenagu is a good athlete who catches the ball well and gets after blocking assignments to seal defenders away from the action. The ability to grasp the duties of new positions he never played in college has impressed scouts this week.
Pauline also highlights two Hawaii DT among others so click on that link to read up.
Follow us on twitter @NFLmocks and I’ll have more from the Shrine game tomorrow.