Our guest host tonight is Frank Coyle. Frank is a nationally known pro football scout who publishes Draft Insiders’ Digest. In it’s 21st season, DraftInsiders.com is a website and publication dedicated to the year round coverage of NFL and NCAA Football. Frank covers the NFL Draft and Free agency extensively with a veteran scouting staff that provides insightful information on players and team potential in the coming seasons.

Frank will answer submitted Draft questions not only about how the Packers but for all NFL Teams. Have a question now? Questions were submitted on February 1st in a Chat that night.

We are ready to take your draft questions for Frank Coyle. Note: For those that cannot make the Live Chat as many questions as you want may be submitted now preceding the start of the Live Chat tonight at 9:00pm ET, 8:00pm CT. Our Chat is ‘moderated’ meaning we will be putting your questions up in random so as many fans get a turn.

Welcome everyone.
DraftInsiders.com Happy to be with Packer Chatters again
Frank Coyle
www.draftinsiders.com

Welcome back Frank to PackerChatters Live Draft Chat. Frank let us know when you are ready and we will start the questions from the fans with us tonight. Tonight’s Chat as usual will run approximately 1 hour. We will try and get to all the questions in this short time frame.

[Comment From BubbaOneBubbaOne: ]
Frank, TE’s and RB’s took advantage of Hawk and Bishop in the passing game. Which cover ILB’s could TT draft in round 3 or after? BTW- a coach who was at Ohio St when Hawk was there said at the Senior Bowl that Hawk is too big, agree?

Frank
ILB is an average group. A guy who would get early consideration would be
Dont’a Hightower of Alabama in the late first round. He is NFL ready.
Middle round guys with coverage ability would be Jerry Franklin of Arkansas
He would have limitations in the Packers scheme as a regular

[Comment From Bob C.Bob C.: ]
What players improved their stock at the Senior Bowl and who’s dropped? Thanks Frank.

Frank
TT has done a great job and value buying is always the wisest.
Picking #28 creates a multiple of situations that you must prepare for.
Trading up is always expensive.
BPA always wins in the long term. I think the Packers are looking at DB early and
often. TT usually stays with his value board. That’s why Packers are always in the Super Bowl hunt. I also like DL and an edge rusher opposit Matthews is critical.

[Comment From packerboypackerboy: ]
What three players do you think the Packers have on their radar at 28 ? Also, can Zach Brown play ROLB in Capers D ?

Frank
I say Packers needs are CB, OLB
Zach Brown is not a great fit for the 3-4 front. He is a terrific athlete but not over 235 lbs. Edge rushers are lean this year. Packers may address secondary at #28
CBs like Gilmore, Boykin. Maybe a safety like Martin
Point being Packers secondary was suspect in 2011 Woodson is entering 15th season and Collins must prove healthy. Clubs need 6 starting DB in today’s NFL game.

Comment From Bob C.
What players improved their stock at the Senior Bowl and who’s dropped? Thanks Frank.

Frank
I think players like CB Brandon Boykin, Shaun Prater & Leonard Johnson helped themseleves
I think a player like LB Melvin Ingram would be a great fit in GB
He has played both up and down on the edge and makes plays. He figures in latter first round. He had an impressive Senior Bowl
Another good fit for GB would be DL Jared Crick of Nebraska. He would be a great addition at DE in this front

[Comment From MadtorkMadtork: ]
Where is the most defensive talent late in round 1? OLB, 3/4-DE or DB?

Frank
I say DB. I am not impressed with OLB ers this year for the 3-4 scheme.
It is also one of the riskiest positions in the game. I love the CB class and feel there are 6 safeties that should go in the top 100-125 that carry solid grades.
The CB class is talented and deep. I think it will be the #1 position drafted this year again and probably the most in the first round, Top 50 and top 100 selections.

[Comment From packerboypackerboy: ]
Have you heard any news on the health of Jared Crick ? If healthy I believe he could be a STUD in the Packer D. Could the Packers get him in round 2 ? THANKS

Frank
Crick had only an average final season He was nicked up
In addition, he is a tall angular lineman who is better on the outside in a
five technique spot at end in the 3-4 front. He has the versatility to kick inside for 4 man fronts as a pass rusher. He would be a great fit for the Packers
Currently, he figures to go in the late first / early 2nd round. if healthy
His NFL Combine performance is huge.

[Comment From RedtRedt: ]
Which of these guys will most likely be available with #28; Upshaw, Barron, Ingram & Perry. Also, what rounds for Shea Mclellin, j. Crick, LaMichael James & Chris Rainey, thanks.

Frank
Barron is a top 15-20 selection.
Upshaw is well respected and probably a top 20 guy.
Ingram and Perry probably go beyond top 20. I think the 3-4 clubs like Ingram best while DE Perry is best suited for weakside end in a 4-3 front.
LB Shea McClellin is a possible 3rd round selection. Best at OLB in 3-4 scheme.
Good fit in GB
Crick late first /early 2nd RB James is 2nd-3rd round according to workout and health. Chris Rainey is a 3rd day guy 4th-5th round area.

[Comment From Uncle JoshUncle Josh: ]
Should the Packers overpay for an over-30 Scott Wells or draft Peter Konz at 28(if available)?

Frank
Wells has done well for Packers. He is only 31 years old. I say they resign him.
Konz is the #1 center and figures late first /early 2nd. Teams like Ravens, Patriots and possibly Packers would be nice fits.

[Comment From bobbob: ]
Good evening. my question tonight for frank is this. given the glaring weakness at the safety position with n.collins being lost what are your thoughts on m.martin(ok st), a.allen(s.car), and h.smith(n.d.).i’ve seen allen a bunch and think he’s a nice player. i haven’t seen the other 2. do you think they can fit the packer’s system and what rounds do you see them going in. thanks a lot.

Frank
Safety is a key spot in GB
Martin and Allen are more strong safeties Both hit and tackle.
Coverage is OK
Harrison Smith is a kid I like. He shows better coverage skills than most safeties
He probably goes in the 3rd round area. The safety spot is not as deep as corner and has become critical with all the nickel and dime packages. Safeties who can cover are gold.
Aaron Henry of Wisconsin is a prospect to watch especially his ability to run and his positional workout. I think this kid could surprise.

[Comment From John KayJohn Kay: ]
Frank, most of us fans focus on the physical side yet it’s probably less than half the equation. TT takes into account character, football IQ, drive, etc. Which defensive players projected to go in the first few rounds will TT dismiss out of hand b/c of these issues?

Frank
I think football IQ is so critical. Players that are hungry is vital to a locker room
Things happen over the course of the season and players that can reach down and play thru problems, injuries and never lose sight of the goal are the guys you must find in the scouting process.
DE Coples had a great Senior bowl but suspect senior season
That’s a red flag even though he could go in the top ten selections.
One thing to consider is that the process is ongoing.
NFL Combine will answer many questions via interviews.
DE Branch of Clemson has top talent but inconsistent motor.

[Comment From Jacob LJacob L: ]
If a ILB is BPA do you think Tedy may take one? A player that can cover will free up the Safetys to ball hawk and OLB to blitz. Hawk could be upgraded, do you agree?

Frank
Hawk is an average starter. That’s why I think a player on the GB short list
is LB Dont;a Hightower of Alabama. Great fit here. Physical and an every down defender.
The BC backer Luke Kuechly is a top 15 guy.
James-Michael Johnson of Nevada is a name to remember. Good ILB for 3-4 set.

To Continue Chat Transcript Go to Next Page

[Comment From Badgermaniac58Badgermaniac58: ]
Where do you think Nick Perry will go? He seems to be perfect for Packs needs.

Frank
Perry is a big edge rusher and will be in demand by all 32 clubs.
Any move to playing up for the 3-4 set is risky.
I think the 4-3 clubs will select him in the top 20.
Teams like Tenn, Cinnym Philly and Seahawks would have him high on their first round list. Edge rushers are gold
That’s why the GMen are in the Super Bowl. They make a difference .
But Packers fans know that after the NFC title game.

[Comment From CWood21CWood21: ]
Given that Nick Perry and Courtney Upshaw are on the board, which one do you go with disregarding the rest of the team around you?

Frank
Upshaw has played more in both sets up and down
He is best suited for playing up on the strongside Great fit opposite Matthews.
Perry has huge upside but there is a critical learning curve to playing up
Remember Vernon Gholston from Ohio St and Aaron Maybin from Penn St.
Both were 1st round disasters.
For early contribution it is Upshaw. Hands down. Though Perry has more pass rushing big play potential.

[Comment From DanDan: ]
What would it take to trade up and draft Nick Perry? We need explosive rushers, just look at the Giants.

Frank
Trading up is not cheap. I think moving up like 10-12 spots from the #29 position might cost a #2 pick High price.
Player must be an impact player at that price.
If I am TT I sit at #28 and take LB Upshaw or highest rated DB on my board.

[Comment From SteveSteve: ]
Frank, Where do you see Michael Brockers being drafted? Is he a better fit in a 4-3 or 3-4? Thanks very much.

Frank – DraftInsiders Free Email
DL Brockers is an awesome prospect
He played inside in a 4-3 set. I think he is a great end in the 3-4 set.
This kid has enormous upside and capable of being a dominant NFL lineman.
He is truly scheme diverse and gives a DC lots of options on a number of situations. Brocker would be an awesome pick for GB.

[Comment From BudBud: ]
Do you think the Packers will go after a RB? What round? And who do you think they may target? Thanks Frank.

Frank
RB is a good deep group.
The position has been downgraded due to the NFL passing game and the durability and short NFL life expectancy for the position.
TT got James Starks on the 6th round in 2010. He was my #1 sleeper at running back that year. I think there will be good RB in the middle rounds and possibly the 3rd day of the NFL Draft. It is probably not a Top 4 positional priority in GB

[Comment From BubbaOneBubbaOne: ]
You had Gilmore going to the Packers in your Jan 4th mock draft. Do you still like him at 28th. He’s being compared to Woodson. His physicality, length, and lack of top speed suggests may be he could play safety. Your thoughts?

Frank
Gilmore faces a critical NFL Combine. He is a very good young player with some inconsistencies. I just feel that TT will address the secondary with two additions and both probably early like in the top 100 picks.
The draft will dictate who and when but I would be surprised if they don’t address secondary.
Top GB needs – CB, DL, S, LB, OL, RB

[Comment From packerboypackerboy: ]
Will Fletcher Cox last until pick 28? Does he fit the Packer D at DE ?

Frank
Good question. DL Cox is another scheme diverse kid.
Played mainly inside in 4-3 set. Good fit for end in the 3-4 front.
He has to be a guy on TT short list for the #28 selection.
He figures in the latter first round and is a very good prospect.

[Comment From MadtorkMadtork: ]
How far will Dre Kilpatrick fall? What other “size” dbs do you see in later rounds?

Frank Coyle
Krrkpatrick needs big NFL Combine especially the interviews to dispel off the field concerns.
Josh Norman – 6-1, 190 Carolina Coastal is a fast rising prospect that probably moved into the top 100 and possibly top 75 off a strong EW week.
Trumaine Johnson 6-2, 205 Montana is a small college kid to watch in workouts. He has starting NFL talent. Played CB in college, possibly a starting NFL safety.

Last question for Frank tonight goes to BubbaOne.

[Comment From BubbaOneBubbaOne: ]
My contention is playmakers win you championships. This year’s D was missing 2 (Jenkins and Collins) and 2 others (Raji and Williams) had sub par years. There’s a lot of fine players but who do you see as difference makers at DE? at OLB? at CB? at Safety?

Frank
Players in the top 3 rounds
DE would be Cox, Brockers, Crick
LB Courtney Upshaw 6-2, 265 Alabama
Vontaze Burfict of Arizona St ,
CB Gilmore, Boykin, Chase Minnifield 5-11, 185 Virginia

This concludes tonight’s Draft Chat and we thank Frank for taking the time to be with us again this year. Be sure to stop by DraftInsiders.com and check out the great NFL/Draft information offered.

Thanks to all for coming with your Draft questions and to Frank for his great responses.

DraftInsiders.com Packer Chatters

Great to be with you again.
Frank Coyle
www.draftinsiders.com
1-800-776-1949

Thanks Frank….great information.

Daurice Fountain Receiver of Northern Iowa Heads Gems at East-West Shrine Week Practices

Daurice Fountain #10 – 6015, 210 lbs. – Northern Iowa 
Athletic senior has been one of the hidden gems from the small college level over his three starting seasons. He has had an excellent week of practice at the East-West Shrine practices that is vital for a small college performer to impress NFL scouts. Fountain hit the ground running this week and showed a business like approach to the oldest All-star game on the NFL agenda. He displayed good athleticism and the refined receiving skills to come off the line quickly and eat up NFL caliber cover men. He showed good footwork and the ability to separate at the breakpoint to get open consistently and provide his passer and sound target. His ability to go up and adjust to the throws drew attention from NFL scouts early in the week and he was one of the hot prospects through the week.

As a senior, he had 66 receptions for 943 yards and 12 TDs despite double coverage. That earned him an invitation to the East-West Shrine game. He comes in just under 6’2” and a solid 210 lbs. He entered 2017 with 82 catches for over 1100 yards and 11 TDs on 24 starts. He played in all 14 games as a true freshman and has made nice progress annually.
Strong frame with good movement skills to come off the line quickly. He benefits from a high profile sprinter running in the huddles in national meets. He adjusts nicely to the ball with the ability to snatch it easily and secure it consistently. He is one of our Players to Watch at the East-West Shrine game Saturday, Jan 20th. We will have a special list of Pro Prospects to Watch for the Shrine game to full subscribers prior to this Saturday’s contest.
For Complete East-West Shrine All-star Game info including updated practice info
Go to http://www.shrinegame.com/

East-West Director Harold Richardson and staff has assembled another strong group of pro prospects. The East-West Shrine Game has accepted over 100 invitations for this classic game.

Saints’ Rookie RB Alvin Kamara –
Draft Insiders’ 2017 Yearbook Scouting Report

NFL Rookie Report – NFL Draft 2017
Saints Running back Alvin Kamara #41

Alvin Kamara has totalted 111 carries for 7.4 touches per game for 684 yards and 6.2 yard average with 7 TDs and just 1 fumble. He also added 75 receptions for 742 yards and 5 TDs as one of the most versatile backs in the NFL. His numbers come as the 1A type back behind veteran Mark Ingram who has rushed for 1089 yards on 217 carries and 12 TDs with 1 game to go. The Saints ground game has been awesome throughout the 2017 season with both inside power and big play impact. Kamara has given veteran QB Drew Brees a playmaker in a few roles which has opened up this down the field passing game. Saints look to clinch the NFC South title with a victory in Tampa this Sunday.

DraftInsiders.com for extensive NFL Draft Info
Yearbook – over 300 in-depth Scouting Reports
NFL Team Report – extensive Evaluation of Each Team Prior to NFL Draft
December 2017 Newsletter & Pro Prospect Rankings – Order Online or call 1-800 -776-1949

Photo – RB Alvin Kamara – Saints

Draft Insiders’ 2017 Yearbook Scouting Report – March, 2017

* Alvin Kamara #6 – 5-10, 215, Tennessee – Sp. 4.55
            Rating 86 – Player Comparison: Lamar Miller
Talented multi-dimensional all around back has been an impact performer for the Vols the past two seasons following a JC stay after transferring from Alabama. Earned SEC honors in 2016 after an excellent overall performance. Tough natural runner shows very quick feet with good size and speed to be an NFL feature back. Runs with a wiggle and able to string multiple moves together. Gets to top speed quickly, though must learn to adjust his speed and change gears better to avoid tacklers. On the 2nd level, he has a burst to run away from most defenders. Displays decent lower body power and is able to make consistent yardage after contact. Keeps his pad level down, and will run over 2nd level defenders. Fast developing receiver comes out of the backfield quickly into his routes. Shows reliable hands and capable of making the tough catch. In space, he knows what to do with the ball and shows the burst to take the play the distance. Very effective on screens and wheel routes with the ability to sit in holes and get free as a check down option. Displayed the ability to run inside and outside, though not a physical downhill power back between the tackles. As a pass blocker, he’s alert, aware and competent at picking up the blitz. Keeps his feet well and shows exceptional balance and functional strength. Explosive when he sees a crease and is capable of ripping off huge yardage at times. Knows situational football, aware of down and distance and where the 1st down markers are to keep drives alive. Versatile talent to give an offense a unique weapon to command special attention in every situation.
The Numbers: As a junior in 2016, he shared time with Jalen Hurd and played in 11 games and rushed for 596 yards on 103 carries for a 5.8 yard average and 9 TDs. He caught 40 passes for 392 yards and 4 TDs. As a sophomore, he rushed for 698 yards on 107 carries for a 6.5 average and 7 TDs. He caught 34 passes for 291 yards and 3 TDs. Over his short career, he rushed for 1294 yards on 210 carries for 6.2 yard average with 16 rushing TDs and 74 catches with 7 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 5’10” and 214 lbs. and ran a 4.56 time. He did 15 reps and added a 39.5” VL and 10’ 11” BJ. At the Vols’ pro day, he looked sharp in drills, catching everything and looking smooth in his routes.
The Skinny: Natural runner and receiver with good speed to change games. Nice combination of speed, power and cutting skills. Combines the size, quickness and strength to get into the end zone. Well-rounded with the suddenness to get outside and make the corner with the burst to hit the home run. Rising talent probably goes in the top 50-60 prospects and capable of being a quality feature back similar to Lamar Miller in size, style and speed. Fine early round addition with starting talent to be a three down back, though more a 1A type.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Review – June 2017
RB Kamara is a solid versatile playmaker who can fill a few key roles. He runs inside and outside and is a high-level receiver and returner. His presence along with vet Adrian Peterson might make veteran Mark Ingram expendable this year. This backfield becomes the deepest in the game.

Wed, 12/27/2017

NFL Power Poll – Eagles & Patriots Rule Conferences
NFC South Bids for Three Playoff Berths

Team of the Week – New Orleans Saints

Players of the Week
Offense – RB Todd Gurley – Rams
Defense – DE Marquis Flowers – Patriots

Rookie of Week – RB Kareem Hunt – Chiefs

Photo – RB Kareem Hunt – Chiefs
`
Game of Week #17 – Carolina Panthers (11-4) at Atlanta Falcons (9-6)
NFC South Matchup with Divisional Title and NFC Home Field Advantage on the line

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1- 13-2 Eagles
Eagles won despite a subpar performance by QB Nick Foles. Earned home field advantage thru NFC postseason.
#2 – 12-3 Patriots
Pats just do not beat themselves. Hold home field advantage thru AFC playoffs.
#3 – 12-3 Steelers
Steelers’ get a bye week, but will have to go through New England to win the AFC title.
#4 – 11-4 Rams
Rams’ edged out the Titans last week to clinch their first NFC West division title since 2003.
#5 – 12-3 Vikings
Vikings shutout the Rodgersless Packers. They earned NFC North title with win.
#6 – 11-4 Saints
Saints’ have met every challenge and play for NFC South title with trip to Tampa.
#7 – 11-4 Panthers
Panthers travel to Atlanta that will decide NFC South title and wild card clubs.
#8 – 9-6 Chiefs
Chiefs jumped on the Dolphins to win the AFC West title. It earned them back to back divisional titles for the first time in franchise history.
#9 – 9-6 Falcons
Falcons failed vs the Saints. Host the Panthers this week in a must win situation for a wild card berth.
#10 – 10-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ failed to stop the 49ers in big situations. Clinched AFC South title nevertheless. Close with matchup with Titans.
#11 – 9-6 Ravens
Ravens win the final wild card berth with a win or tie vs the Bengals or a loss or tie by Bills or Titans.
#12 – 9-6 Seahawks
Seahawks beat the Cowboys to stay alive for final wild card, though they need help with a Falcons loss or tie.
#13 – 8-7 Chargers
Chargers host the Raiders in a must win situation, though they need help to extend their season.
#14 – 8-7 Titans
Titans lost another heartbreaker in the last minutes to the Rams. They can still earn wild card with a win at home vs the Jaguars.
#15 – 8-7 Cowboys
The overrated Cowboys lost to the Seahawks to get eliminated from the playoffs.
#16 – 8-7 Lions
Lions lost to the lowly Bengals which eliminated them from the playoffs in an erratic disappointing performance.
#17 – 8-7 Bills
Bills came up short vs the Patriots, but still alive to end their 17 year playoff drought vs the Dolphins.
#18 – 7-8 Redskins
Redskins beat the hapless Broncos behind a strong effort by QB Kirk Cousins.
#19 – 7-8 Packers
Packers were shut out without QB Aaron Rodgers and face key offseason decisions on personnel.
#20 – 7-8 Cardinals
Cardinals shut out the pathetic Giants in a meaningless game for both clubs.
#21 – 6-9 Dolphins
Dolphins did not show up in key game vs the Chiefs. Look for big turnover this offseason.
#22 – 6-9 Raiders
Raiders failed to play with urgency again vs the Eagles. Many veterans playing their last Raider game this week.
#23 – 6-9 Bengals
Bengals win their last home game under HC Marvin Lewis who never won a postseason game with Cinny.
#24 – 5-10 49ers
The 49ers bombed the tough Jaguars behind hot new veteran QB Jimmy Garoppolo. San Fran is in place for a big run in 2018.
#25 – 5-10 Jets
Jets offense continues their disappointing performance with games on the line. In search for playmakers to become a contender.
#26 – 5-10 Broncos
Broncos will play young QB Paxton Lynch this week with Chiefs coming to Mile High.
#27 – 5-10 Bears
The Bears beat the Browns behind emerging rookie QB Mitchell Trubisky. May be last home game for HC John Fox.
#28 – 4-11 Texans
Texans were slammed by Pittsburgh. Club never recovered from losses of JJ Watt and Deshaun Watson.
#29 – 4-11 Bucs
Bucs pushed the Panthers to the limit but failed late to hold a slim lead. Top 5-8 pick can give this club a boost.
#30 – 3-12 Colts
Colts need a major overhaul to get into contention. Future health of QB Andrew Luck remains a mystery.
#31 – 2-13 Giants
Giants finishing their worst season in decades with key questions related to QB Eli Manning this offseason.
#32 – 0-15 Browns
Browns travel to Pittsburgh with a perfect 0-16 season in the balance. Two picks in top 5 selections this April.