Melvin Ingram vs Courtney Upshaw vs Barron vs Floyd

I'm an Ingram guy. Has alot of versatality. I would be happy with either guy and if they are both gone than I would pick Barron. I like Floyd but my choices are Ingram, Upshaw and Barron.

 

Title: Can Alabama's Courtney Upshaw rise the way Von Miller did last year?

he Senior Bowl week did more to confirm what we already knew as it did offer some new names and surprises. That said, you will see a couple of moves this week after evaluations. One player who continues to rise is Alabama's Courtney Upshaw, a talent who can be a prototype pass-rusher in a 3-4 scheme. Can he make the same kind of rise Von Miller did at this time last year? I doubt it, but it's important to point out that guys really do rise and fall during this period. There are lots of evaluations left. Make sure to check my Top 5 players at each position group, as you'll see a lot of depth there.

As always, read on and let me know who should be higher or who has been passed over, in your opinion. Juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.


1Andrew Luck *AGE: 22DOB: 9/12/89HT: 6-4WT: 235POS: QB
Comp 288Att 404Pct 71.3Yds 3,517TD 37Int 10
No change here. My impression is the Colts have locked on to Luck as the No. 1 pick. Not unexpected. I don't foresee a situation in which he relinquishes this spot before the draft. Has total package: arm strength, size, smarts and demeanor.

LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD

2Matt Kalil *AGE: 22DOB: 7/6/89HT: 6-7WT: 295POS: OT
GP 12GS 12
Kalil was steady all season and has the full range of skills for the left tackle position, not to mention the pedigree. He might not need time to develop at right tackle, a common break-in spot for many left tackles. Issue he now faces is the microscope of the draft process.

LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD

3Trent Richardson *AGE: 20DOB: 7/10/91HT: 5-11WT: 224POS: RB
Car 283Yds 1,679Avg. 5.9TD 21
Hard to believe he could be any more prepared for workouts, but I'm sure he will be. Splitting carries in his first two seasons has helped him. He looks as strong as ever. Powerful, fast and with improved vision and pass-catching skills, he runs with good pad level and breaks tackles with ease.

LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD

4Morris Claiborne *AGE: 21DOB: 2/7/90HT: 6-1WT: 185POS: CB
Tkl 51Sack 0Int 6
Was the lesser-known of the LSU corners, but easily the better one for me. He's just very good, an exceptional pure cover corner with impeccable instincts at the position. Locates the ball and can catch it. Not a burner, but plenty quick.

LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD

5Justin Blackmon *AGE: 22DOB: 1/9/90HT: 6-1WT: 208POS: WR
Rec 121Yds 1,522Avg 12.6TD 18
Blackmon finished strong and cemented his gaudy film status. A better prospect than recent OSU star Dez Bryant. Versatile, explosive and really works to get open. Great ball skills, breaks tackles, and I think scouts will love the intangibles.

LAST WEEK: 5 | PLAYER CARD


6Robert Griffin III *AGE: 21DOB: 2/12/90HT: 6-1WT: 220POS: QB
Comp 291Att 402Pct 72.4Yds 4,293TD 37Int 6
Locked in as the second-best QB in the draft, he certainly could be in the mix as the No. 2 pick if St. Louis deals. Great kid, underrated passer, big-time athlete. Won't see stock rise or fall until he works out and throws.

LAST WEEK: 6 | PLAYER CARD

7Quinton CoplesAGE: 21DOB: 6/22/90HT: 6-6WT: 285POS: DE
Tkl 55Sack 7.5Int 0
Validated status as top 4-3 defensive end at Senior Bowl practices. The skill set is hard to look past. The physical traits and talent are there; it's more a matter of consistency. Great size and length to hold the edge in 4-3.

LAST WEEK: 7 | PLAYER CARD

8Riley Reiff *AGE: 23DOB: 12/1/88HT: 6-6WT: 300POS: OT
GP 13GS 13
Now the No. 2 tackle. With Reiff, the tape doesn't lie -- and it might be the best tape of any LT this year because he's so complete. Durable, he has played from day one at Iowa. Ceiling a question, but he's very good now.

LAST WEEK: 8 | PLAYER CARD

9Jonathan Martin *AGE: 22DOB: 7/6/89HT: 6-6WT: 304POS: OT
GP 13GS 13
Trusted in the passing game as the blindside protection for Luck, he also did a great job in the run game, where Stanford was often underrated. Given his athleticism, he has a chance to develop into a fantastic player on the left side.

LAST WEEK: 9 | PLAYER CARD

10Luke Kuechly *AGE: 20DOB: 4/20/91HT: 6-3WT: 237POS: LB
Tkl 191Sack 0.0Int 3
Great instincts against the run and even dropping his hips and falling into coverage. Dependable, a tackling machine; he makes great reads, sees the play develop and sheds blockers well. Solid status, and scouts love him.

LAST WEEK: 10 | PLAYER CARD

11Devon StillAGE: 22DOB: 7/11/89HT: 6-5WT: 310POS: DT
Tkl 49Sack 4.5Int 0
Stock has risen. A great penetrator, he has overcome health issues and has been extremely disruptive, breaking through double-teams to pile up TFLs. Could play a couple of spots at next level.

LAST WEEK: 11 | PLAYER CARD

12David DeCastro *AGE: 22DOB: 1/11/90HT: 6-5WT: 310POS: OG
GP 13GS 13
Extremely consistent, plus athletic and powerful in the run game. A rare guard who could get some looks in the first round. DeCastro, along with Martin and Luck, is officially in the draft.

LAST WEEK: 12 | PLAYER CARD

13Melvin IngramAGE: 22DOB: 4/26/89HT: 6-2WT: 276POS: DE
Tkl 48Sack 10.0Int 2
A very good pass-rusher, Ingram has the ability to convert to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the right system, despite a frame that could have him targeted as a pass-rush specialist in a 4-3.

LAST WEEK: 14 | PLAYER CARD

14Courtney UpshawAGE: 22DOB: 12/13/89HT: 6-2WT: 265POS: LB
Tkl 52Sack 9.5Int 1
A riser so far this year, he is showing improved pass-rush skills and should convert to 3-4 OLB at the next level. Great leverage player who uses hands well and battles against the run. Fits the LaMarr Woodley comparison.

LAST WEEK: 16 | PLAYER CARD

15Fletcher Cox *AGE: 21DOB: 12/30/90HT: 6-4WT: 295POS: DT
Tkl 56Sack 5.0Int 0
An explosive, disruptive player who is always in the backfield causing havoc. Cox gains value as a guy who can go inside in a 4-3 or work at defensive end in a 3-4. He declared this week.

LAST WEEK: 13 | PLAYER CARD

16Michael Brockers *AGE: 21DOB: 12/21/90HT: 6-6WT: 306POS: DT
Tkl 54Sack 2.0Int 1
A solid interior force, Brockers is a rising talent who has scheme versatility and could be attractive to teams running either a 4-3 or a 3-4. A disruptive player who will occupy blocks and get good penetration.

LAST WEEK: 15 | PLAYER CARD

 

17Cordy GlennAGE: 22DOB: 9/18/89HT: 6-5WT: 348POS: T/G
GP 14GS 14
Versatility is huge for Glenn. Really experienced player who has been able to play all over. Has spent time at tackle but can dominate at guard, and I'd expect whoever drafts him to ultimately have him blocking inside.

LAST WEEK: 17 | PLAYER CARD

18Mark BarronAGE: 22DOB: 10/27/89HT: 6-2WT: 218POS: S
Tkl 63Sack 1.0Int 2
The top safety in the draft right now, Barron is big, has good range and is a solid tackler in the open field. A number of teams in the middle of Round 1 have a need at his position.

LAST WEEK: 18 | PLAYER CARD

19Dontari Poe *AGE: 21DOB: 8/18/90HT: 6-5WT: 350POS: DT
Tkl 33Sack 1.0Int 0
A massive defensive tackle, Poe is a rare player, a possible centerpiece at defensive tackle in a 3-4 alignment. He's a force against the run on early downs.

LAST WEEK: 19 | PLAYER CARD

20Kendall WrightAGE: 22DOB: 11/12/89HT: 5-10WT: 190POS: WR
Rec 108Yds 1,663Avg 15.4TD 14
Highly productive, he has the speed to beat teams over the top but is sure-handed and an effective route-runner who can find space underneath. Value is rising and he could become No. 2 WR taken.

LAST WEEK: 24 | PLAYER CARD

21Jerel Worthy *AGE: 21DOB: 4/28/90HT: 6-3WT: 310POS: DT
Tkl 30Sack 3.5Int 0
Really tough to move as an interior defender, he wasn't quite the penetrator I expected in 2011, but he also drew a lot of blocking attention, and that's the key. A disruptive clogger who frees up the linebackers.

LAST WEEK: 21 | PLAYER CARD

22Lamar Miller *AGE: 20DOB: 4/25/91HT: 5-11WT: 212POS: RB
Car 227Yds 1,272Avg. 5.6TD 9
An explosive runner who can work inside and has the speed to break off big runs when he gets to the second level. Has a chance to work his way into first-round consideration.

LAST WEEK: 22 | PLAYER CARD

23Dre Kirkpatrick *AGE: 22DOB: 10/26/89HT: 6-3WT: 192POS: CB
Tkl 29Sack 0Int 0
Had a solid regular season, although his tape will get a close look because of productivity questions. But don't sweat it -- Kirkpatrick can play. His biggest advantage is his elite size for the position, and he doesn't give up much quickness for it.

LAST WEEK: 23 | PLAYER CARD

24Michael FloydAGE: 22DOB: 11/27/89HT: 6-3WT: 224POS: WR
Rec 100Yds 1,147Avg 11.5TD 9
A multidimensional receiver, he's able to beat you short or deep. Has a big frame to beat smaller cornerbacks. Played at 227 pounds in 2010 but dropped a little weight this season and played quicker. Raw speed will matter.

LAST WEEK: 20 | PLAYER CARD

25Vontaze Burfict *AGE: 21DOB: 9/24/90HT: 6-3WT: 250POS: LB
Tkl 69Sack 5.0Int 1
In the draft, with little left to prove, his tape is stacked because he has started from day one. Has great instincts, makes plays sideline to sideline and is far more disciplined than he gets credit for. Might have too much tape at this point.

LAST WEEK: 25 | PLAYER CARD
Mel Kiper has been the premier name in NFL draft prospect evaluations for more than three decades. He started putting out his annual draft guides in 1978 and started contributing to ESPN as an analyst in 1984. For more from Mel, check out his annual draft publications or his home page. He also can be found on Twitter here.

 

McShay Big Board

he pre-draft process is heating up, with non-seniors getting more in-depth film analysis and plenty of seniors moving up and down the board following their performances at postseason all-star games.

In all, seven players either debut or reappear in this week's updated rankings of my top 32 overall prospects, including a cornerback making a resurgence, a very tall quarterback, a fast-rising defensive end and a pair of defensive tackles.

Among the big names falling out of the top 32 this week: Clemson DE Andre Branch; Arizona QB Nick Foles; South Carolina WR Alshon Jeffery; and Virginia Tech RB David Wilson.

Elsewhere, a dominant defensive tackle continues to rise and is now inside the top 10, while a strong Senior Bowl showing for a versatile DE/OLB has him in the top 10 as well.

Here's how the entire list breaks down at this point.



Andrew Luck* QB6-4235
Analysis: Speculation about Peyton Manning's situation in Indianapolis continues to swirl, but it's looking more and more like Luck and his once-in-a-generation skill set are headed to the Colts. Last week: 1

Matt Kalil* OT6-7295
Analysis: Kalil is clearly the top offensive lineman in the board, with his combination of light feet and good balance as a pass-blocker and the edge he flashes in the running game. He's ready to start from day one. Last week: 2

Robert Griffin III* QB6-1½ 218
Analysis: The 2011 Heisman Trophy winner continues to rise. He won't pass Luck on my board, but Griffin's mobility, quick release and arm strength have helped him narrow the gap and create some intrigue as teams potentially jockey for a chance to select him, perhaps as high as No. 2 overall. Last week: 3

Quinton Coples DE6-5¾ 281
Analysis: There have been questions about Coples' work ethic and motor, but he dominated at the Senior Bowl and his upside as an all-around defender will make him a coveted player on draft day. Last week: 5

Trent Richardson* RB5-11224
Analysis: Richardson is clearly the top running back in the 2012 class -- and one of the highest-rated backs in recent years -- thanks to an elite combination of size, speed, power, balance and vision. Last week: 4



Morris Claiborne* CB6-0173
Analysis: Claiborne is the top cover corner in the nation, showing size, speed, fluid hips and impressive ball skills. He was overshadowed some by playmaking teammate Tyrann Mathieu, but Claiborne is clearly a top-10 talent. Previously: 6

Riley Reiff* OT6-6300
Analysis: He's not a road-grader in the running game, but Reiff is a solid, consistent overall tackle who shows good technique and the ability to slide and mirror defenders in pass protection. Previously: 7

Luke Kuechly* ILB6-2235
Analysis: Kuechly is clearly the top linebacker on the board. His impressive instincts made him perhaps the most productive linebacker in the nation, and they help cover his lack of elite physical tools. Previously: 10

Michael Brockers* DT6-6306
Analysis: Brockers has the size and strength to dominate the point of attack as a run defender, and the potential to be a disruptive pass-rusher on occasion. Previously: 12

Melvin Ingram DE6-1⅞ 276
Analysis: A DE/OLB tweener who fits best on the outside in the NFL, Ingram was impressive during Senior Bowl week with his blend of quickness, power, pass-rush ability and versatility. Previously: 17

Courtney Upshaw OLB6-1½273
Analysis: Upshaw also shined at the Senior Bowl, and coupled with an impressive performance in the BCS title game, that gives him plenty of positive buzz. He is solid as a pass-rusher and run defender, showing the strength to shed blockers and the power to finish plays. Previously: 16

Justin Blackmon* WR6-1211
Analysis: The most productive receiver in the nation the past two seasons, Blackmon has outstanding hands, body control and ball skills. Likely a top-10 pick. Previously: 8

Mark Barron S6-1½223
Analysis: Barron has good size and smarts. He's a complete safety with the versatility to play in the box and deliver big shots as a run defender and also play the point and use his instincts to get to the ball in coverage. Previously: 14

David DeCastro* G6-4½ 314
Analysis: DeCastro was the most dominant interior lineman in the nation in 2011, and he's the kind of physical player capable of holding down a starting spot from the first day of training camp. Previously: 15

Janoris Jenkins CB5-9⅞ 177
Analysis: He spent the season off the radar after being dismissed by Florida and transferring to North Alabama, but Jenkins proved at the Senior Bowl that he is still an elite athlete and cover corner. Character baggage hurts him, but Jenkins is clearly building momentum. Previously: NR

 

Jonathan Martin* OT6-6304
Analysis: Martin is not the same pass-blocker as Kalil, and he's slipping a bit as 2011 film shows him to be less dominant than expected, but he still has the potential to become a solid NFL starter. Previously: 11

Ryan Tannehill QB6-3¾ 217
Analysis: Tannehill is a former wide receiver who will require more development than the other quarterbacks on this list, but he has the ability to create when the play breaks down and showed improved instincts this season. It will be interesting to see how a broken foot suffered shortly after the season affects his stock. Previously: 20

Dre Kirkpatrick* CB6-2½ 190
Analysis: Kirkpatrick won't ever be dominant in man coverage, and recent off-field issues could hurt him, but he's instinctive in zone coverage and has the frame and physical nature to excel in run support. Previously: 9

Michael Floyd WR6-3229
Analysis: Questions about his suddenness as a route runner remain, but Floyd has matured on and off the field and his size and ball skills make him an elite playmaker down the field. Previously: 18

Kendall Wright WR5-10⅛194
Analysis: Hands, good top-end speed and run-after-catch ability made Wright one of the most productive receivers in the country, and he's shooting up draft boards. Previously: 32

Brock Osweiler* QB6-7½ 240
Analysis: Osweiler is a former basketball player and has good athleticism for his size, and his arm is strong enough to overcome a somewhat unusual delivery. He has moved quickly up the board and is likely a first-round pick. Previously: NR

Vontaze Burfict* ILB6-3252
Analysis: A physical freak who can punish ball carriers in the running game and shows impressive range against the run and the pass, Burfict must still answer questions about his mental makeup and on-field maturity. Previously: 19

Chandler Jones* DE6-5247
Analysis: Jones flew under the radar in 2011, but film study shows a strong pass-rusher with a good frame, impressive athleticism and the ability to bend the edge tightly when pursuing the quarterback. Previously: NR

Coby Fleener TE6-6252
Analysis: Fleener improved as a blocker in 2011, and his size, athleticism and ability to stretch the seams and create after the catch are impressive. Previously: 24

Nick Perry* OLB6-3250
Analysis: A fast-rising junior, Perry played end in college but will move to outside linebacker in the NFL. He is a good pass-rusher, disciplined against the run, and has room to add bulk to his frame without sacrificing athleticism. Previously: 26

Brandon Thompson DT6-2311
Analysis: Thompson's motor runs hot and cold at times and he was better in 2010 than 2011, but he can be overpowering at the point of attack as a run defender and flashes the ability to collapse the pocket as a pass-rusher. Previously: 29

Mike Adams OT6-7323
Analysis: Adams doesn't play with as much of an edge as you'd like, but he is a massive player who moves easily for his size and has the natural tools to quickly emerge as a starter. Previously: NR

Cordy Glenn G6-5½346
Analysis: Glenn struggled some when moved to left tackle in 2011, but he has the size and power to thrive at guard in the NFL. He also looked better than expected at tackle during Senior Bowl week and could develop the versatility to play right tackle at the next level. Previously: NR

Jerel Worthy DT6-3305
Analysis: Worthy has the quickness and strength to anchor and/or disrupt against the run, and he has the tools to develop as an interior pass-rusher. Previously: NR

Dwayne Allen* TE6-4½ 255
Analysis: Allen has the speed, athleticism and hands to stretch the seam, and is competitive after the catch. He also improved as an in-line blocker in 2011. Previously: 28

Fletcher Cox* TE6-3¾ 296
Analysis: A disruptive run-stopper who can get into the backfield, Cox also shows solid pass-rush skills and an above-average motor. Previously: NR

Lamar Miller* RB5-11214
Analysis: Miller runs hard and no back in the 2012 class has the same combination of explosiveness and acceleration out of cuts. Surgery for a midseason shoulder injury shouldn't affect his stock because Miller showed good toughness playing through pain. Previously: 27

 

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the receiver pool is deep this year, so I wouldn't draft Floyd in the first. Same goes for Barron, there are a lot of good safeties in this draft. For me personally, I would take Upshaw, but I have a feeling he won't be around at 16. so the next best bet would be Mercilus or Ingram. I'm fine with either selection.

 

Just edit out your posts...

 

Too busy dot dot

 

Upshaw or Barron, both are good fits for the Jets, played 3-4 defense and would be a starter from day one.