Sleeper/Steal Alert: Javier Arenas

Sleeper/ Steal Alert
Every year the NFL Draft is littered with Busts and Steals/Sleepers. Steals/Sleepers are what make a team’s draft special and build decision makers reputations. Some of the more famous Steals/Sleepers include Tom Brady (round 6 pick 199), Terrell Davis (round 6 pick 196), and Zack Thomas (round 5 pick 154). But a Steal/Sleeper doesn’t necessarily have to be drafted in the later rounds. An example would be the Green Bay Packers getting Clay Matthews at pick 26 after players like Larry English were selected. Matthews earned a spot on the NFC Pro Bowl after registering 10 sacks in his rookie season. We are going to examine some of the different sleepers in this year’s draft.

Player:
Javier Arenas- CB- Alabama

Projected Rounds:
2nd-3rd rounds

Thoughts:
Javier Arenas probably fits into the Steal category more than the Sleeper one. He is a known name and has performed well at Alabama. Despite his on the field play NFL teams are looking at his lack of size (5-9) and the question marks around his overall speed. The thing that draws me to Arenas is his play making ability and the fact that he will see the field more than an average cornerback. Arenas’ greatest skills are in the return game where he has 7 career return touchdowns. Teams were forced to kick the ball out of bounds and away from Arenas, often times resulting in great field position for the Crimson Tide. His playmaking skills also come in to play when he is at the cornerback position where he is always a threat to take it to the house. Arenas is considered a 2nd or 3rd round pick and any team that selects him will have an instant playmaker.