NFL Draft Yearbook Sample Scouting Report

Written in March annually prior to the NFL Draft

Draft Insiders’ 2022 Yearbook – available this spring
Order Today – Special Deluxe Package available

NFL Draft Yearbook Scouting Report – 2020

* Justin Jefferson #2 – 6-1, 200, LSU – Sp. 4.45
                 NFL Comparison: Calvin Ridley      Rating 90
Big agile junior has been a key part of the Tigers’ deep receiving corps over his two starting seasons while earning All-American and SEC honors in 2019. Smooth wideout with long arms and strong hands. Fast developing skills to become an NFL playmaker within a short time and very productive over his career operating with QB Joe Burrow. Deceptive gliding running style with soft reliable hands and excellent use of his body to shield off defenders. Combines good size and speed with top hands to be one of the most intriguing prospects at this position. Shown fine improvement on the key points and nuances of the game, especially route running and overall defensive awareness. Amazing production vs top ten talent. Wiry high cut receiver with very good ball skills to start immediately. Savvy ability to separate in the deep game, though he lacks elite top end speed. Highly developed as a route runner with the ability to change speeds and use multiple moves on a defender. Eats up a cornerback’s cushion and comes out of his cuts well for a lanky receiver to create separation. Finds holes in coverage and is especially dangerous on the short and intermediate crossing routes. Precise route runner with the ability to recognize coverage and zone schemes to make fast adjustments. Size and agility to fight off the jam and separate in coverage with very good run after the catch ability. Shows development to adjust nicely and catch outside the box. Especially dangerous on the fade pattern with the developed hands to make the tough catch. At the sidelines, he uses his height, reach and leaping skills to create matchup problems. Learning to use his hands better to avoid the jam and stay on routes. Disciplined footwork at the breakpoint with very good body control to adjust and track the ball. As a route runner, he shows the ability to make cuts and retain his speed. Earned 1st team SEC honors. Scored 24 TDs over his final two seasons as one of the best red zone threats in the country. At the NFL Combine, he came in over 6’1” and 202 lbs. with 33” arms and 9’1/8” hands.  Did not lift. Ran an impressive 4.43 time and added a 37.5” VL and a 10’6” BJ. Performed very well in positional drills showing sure hands and good radius to complete an excellent overall performance. Similar to Calvin Ridley and Adam Thielen in size, speed, AA and playmaking ability. Developed polished receiver with early NFL starting talent. This fast riser developed almost as quickly as his QB Burrow. High LOD to play in multiple sets day one. Player with the athleticism to become a solid #1 receiver and big play NFL performer. Marginal top 25 prospect with talent to continue to improve and become an impact weapon.
Draft Projection: 1st Round

Bucs’ Antoine Winfield Scouting Evaluation – Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2020

Winfield – Immediate Impact Defender in the Bucs’ Defense

Antoine Winfield has been a major difference maker for SB Champion Bucs since starting game one as a rookie in 2020. Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him as one of the top safeties especially as a complete defender. He ranked among as one of premier playmakers in the NFL Draft 2020 class and predicted him an early NFL starter and playmaker. He has been a major steal in the late 2nd round and arguably one of the best values in the entire draft class. He was among the Bucs defensive leaders on their run to the NFL Championship.

This season, he has continued his impact in a diverse role in the Bucs secondary. This week vs the Patriots on Sunday night, he was a difference maker in the Bucs 19-17 victory. He totaled 5 tackles, 1 FF, 1 PD and 1 interception and kept Pats’ rookie QB Mac Jones off balance in most key situations.

Safeties NFL Draft 2020

* Underclassmen

* Antoine Winfield #11 – 5-9, 205, Minnesota – Sp. 4.45
NFL Player Comparison: Tyrann Mathieu                            Rating 86
Hard-hitting undersized dynamo safety has been the leader in the Gophers’ secondary since his true freshman season. Stepped in as a full-time starter as a true freshman with limited starting duty the following two seasons due to injuries. His 2019 performance was his best and earned first team Big Ten honors. Short compact athlete combines excellent speed, quickness and fluid athleticism to be a three-down defender with the versatility to lineup at a few spots in the nickel packages. At times, he seeks to deliver big stops, but is not a violent hitter and his marginal size is a concern related to holding up to the physicality of the game. Sure wrap down tackler, though needs to breakdown better in space and eliminate some missed tackles. Displays a quick closing burst, arriving with good pad level to maintain leverage and breakup passes. Outstanding read-react ability and attacks with an aggressive manner with a motor that knows only one speed. Drives through his target upon contact and able to finish. Lined up in a variety of ways, usually the high safety and slot corner in different alignments. Effective single-high safety with excellent range to make up ground and get to the ball. Often lined up over a slot receiver, and shows the quick footwork to mirror off the line with the closing speed to break up passes. Sometimes he drops down into the box and blitzes and added 4 sacks with 3 coming in 2019. Versatile with the range and instincts to play free in the deep middle and at times the toughness and run stopping ability to be the eighth man in the box. He has fine instincts for man-coverage, but only average matchup skills where his lack of height will be tested in the NFL. Fine field vision and reacts to the ball quickly. Attacks the throw at the catch point as if he was the receiver. Marginal height and above average leaping ability, compromises his ability to win jump-ball throws. Plays all facets of the game with a strong sense of urgency. In 2019, started 13 games and had 88 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 7 picks, 1 PBU and 2 FR. Earned 1st team Big Ten honors. In 2018, started 4 of 4 games and made 17 tackles, 1 FR, 1 pick and 1 PBU. For his career, totaled 177 tackles with 7 TFL, 9 picks and 6 PBU. Best suited for playing single high scheme. Fine athleticism to be a three-down defender. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 5’9” and 203 lbs. with 30 1/8” arms. He ran a 4.45 time and did not lift. Added a 36” VL and a 10’4“ BJ with no agility drills. He has the speed, quickness and ball skills to be an early starter and compares to Tyrann Mathieu in size, AA and versatility. Shows flexible hips and quick footwork with the instincts to continue to improve in coverage. Talent to be a difference maker. High quality athlete and football player with experience to compete for time in different packages and an excellent addition. Son of former longtime NFL corner Antoine Winfield. Probable early starting ability with the versatility and fast developing talent to be a three-down defender. Rising top 50 selection with impact talent. Teams like the Cowboys and Dolphins have on their short list in the 2nd day.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

QB Justin Herbert Provides Impact in Big Games
Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2020

QB Justin Herbert has been a major difference maker for the Chargers after being taken in Round One. Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him as the #2 QB behind only the first overall selection Joe Burrow. He ranked him as one of premier playmakers in recent NFL Draft classes and fore casted him an early NFL starter. He has been a major steal as the #6 overall select and arguably one of the best values in the entire draft class. He has the Chargers competing for a playoff spot this fall in the very competitive AFC West which may provide three clubs for the NFL 2022 playoffs.

2 Justin Herbert #10 – 6-6, 235,  Oregon – Sp. 4.70
                NFL Play Comparison: Carson Wentz – Rating 90
Big athletic senior led the Ducks’ offense the past four seasons, displaying blue chip skills for the position. During his true freshman season, he flashed big play ability while starting seven games on his way to 42 career starts. Finished his career with an MVP award in the Rose Bowl and a strong performance at the Senior Bowl. He displays optimal physical traits of an NFL starting QB – very good size and overall athleticism with an elite arm along with good mobility and pocket awareness. His intangibles include poise, anticipation, toughness, vision and leadership. Operated behind a talented line which supplies three linemen likely drafted in this class. Shows the complete physical package with excellent production at a high level. Displays good footwork to set up and shows a crisp long delivery with smooth release and capable of firing strikes with touch and timing. Needs to continue to improve touch and accuracy in the shorter zones and hitting receivers in stride. Quick footwork to move in the pocket and create passing lanes with the instincts to go through his check downs fast and find secondary receivers. Capable of pulling the ball down and making a play with his feet regularly. Late in his career, he added muscle to hold up to the rigors of the NFL. Shows quick feet to avoid pressure well, reset his feet and plant to make a big throw. Operated mainly from the gun and needs work on his drop back and setting his feet while reading coverage. Shows the smarts and discipline to be a quick study. Usually makes sound decisions with the ball, by displaying the ability to deliver strikes down the seam. Possesses touch on deep passes. His long throwing mechanics are a concern, though he shortened it up over his final effort which improved his accuracy significantly. Also showed the ability to make quicker adjustments and take control and rally his offense. Makes clutch throws with the game on the line. Possesses a powerful arm with improved touch to hit receivers in stride. At times, shows a tendency to focus too long on his primary target and needs to progress to his other options quicker when under pressure. Needs to step up in the pocket and drive the ball into intermediate windows. Shows good ball security in general with quick decisions. Needs improved basic footwork and follow through while showing more pocket presence. Over his career, he played in 44 games with 10,541 passing yards for a 64% with 95 TDs and 23 interceptions. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 6’6” and 236 lbs. with 10” hands and 32 7/8” arms. Ran a 4.68 time with a 35.5” VJ, a 10’3” BJ and added a 4.46 shuttle and 7.06 three cone. In the passing drills, he displayed good velocity, timing and accuracy. He helped his cause with a strong performance. Threw the ball well with timing, velocity and accuracy. His competitiveness has been questioned, though his strong postseason addressed that in big games, Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. Athletic frame holds up to the physical demands of the game. Shows good defensive recognition to go through his progressions to find secondary receivers. Graded out high vs talented Pac-12 defenders with extensive time vs NFL caliber prospects. Won Pac-12 title in 2019. Despite a middling skill position supporting cast, he had excellent production with minimal mistakes. Athlete with talent and smarts, though needs some maturity at the position. Interesting prospect with the upside potential to develop quickly and start early. Compares to Carson Wentz and is similar in size, delivery, in body type, accuracy and overall development. Blue chip QB prospect with the Dolphins, Chargers, Panthers and Jaguars hoping to land with a top ten selection.
Draft Projection: 1st Round

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Rookie Wide Receiver Deebo Samuel Provides Impact in Big Games
Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2019

Rookie receiver Deebo Samuel has been a major difference maker for the 49ers after being taken in Round Two last April, #36 overall.  Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him as the receiver with the best hands and one of premier playmakers in the NFL Draft 2019 class. Samuel was arguably one of the best values in the entire draft class.

Draft Insiders’ Review 2019 – June 2019
49ers Report

With their 2nd round pick, they added WR/RS Deebo Samuel, a quick versatile playmaker with fine production. He was a fine addition and brings skills as both a receiver and returner. He runs fine routes and shows very good run after the catch skills with impact ability especially in the slot with versatility as a returner.

Wide Receiver Class
Draft Insiders’ 2019 Yearbook Scouting Report – March 2019

Deebo Samuel #1 5-11 215 South Carolina – Sp. 4.45
     Player Comparison: Percy Harvin
Fast compact senior wideout/returner has been one of the most dangerous playmakers in the nation over recent seasons. Athletically gifted with deceptively strong frame and good quickness and speed to make plays consistently as a receiver, runner and returner. He got reps as a wideout, slot receiver, third down back and return specialist. When he lines up in the backfield, he ranks as one of the better 3rd down backs in this class. His return skills are amazing and can be an immediate difference maker both on punts and kickoffs. Used in a number of roles where he performs at an elite level. Very instinctive and intelligent receiver and developing quickly in running the entire route tree. Footwork is crisp and allows him to run precise routes and retain his speed well at the break point. Displays a fine burst out of his cuts to create consistent separation. Well-rounded complete athlete who is gaining a nice understanding of multiple positions to provide a very unique weapon for the pro game. Shows the instincts and feel for finding the soft spots in zone coverage and presenting a good target for the passer. Knows when he needs to come back to the throw on digs and hook routes. Always looking to run after the catch with the burst to create immediate space from defenders. Used in a number of ways, including jet sweeps, bubble screens and third down back situations. Very natural and reliable hands to extend and pluck the ball consistently. Knows how to track over the shoulder passes and displays good sideline awareness. He is both quick and fast with the suddenness in small areas to create space. As a receiver, he is a deep threat who can blow the top off a defense. Short strides allow him to cut on a dime and get behind safeties to make big plays. He handles bigger, stronger press corners and rarely is pushed off his routes. Reads coverage well and knows how to find soft spots. Needs to prove he can hold up physically working over the middle when taking a big hit. Good effort as a blocker. Dangerous as a punt returner where his short area suddenness, long speed, elusiveness and strength allow him to be dangerous every time he touches the ball. Natural runner and good at setting up blocks with the vision and awareness of a scatback to cut back against the grain. Can eat up the corner’s cushion quickly and come out of his breaks with sharp cuts and retain his top end speed to separate. Good cutting skills to change directions and maintain speed. As a runner, he has the ability to take the simple slip screen for huge gains, combining acceleration with the separation speed to run away. Athlete with highly-developed overall skill set and should be capable of contributing as rookie and playing key roles at a high level.
The Numbers: As a senior, he started each game and totaled 62 receptions for 882 yards, a 14.2 yard average and 11 TDs. Earned first team SEC honors. As a junior, he missed the season after a knee injury in the third game. Started 3 games and caught 15 passes for 250 yards, a 16.7 yard average and 3 TDs. Over his career, he had 148 receptions for 2076 yards, 16 TDs and an average of 14 yards per catch. Rushed for 154 yards on 25 carries and 7 TDs. Excellent returner and ranks with best prospects as a specialist. At the NFL Combine, he checked in at 5’11” and 214 lbs. and did 15 reps. Ran a good 4.48 time with a 39” VL and a 10’2” BJ. Added a 4.14 shuttle and 7.03 three cone. Fine positional and agility drills. Similar to NFL playmakers Percy Harvin and Randall Cobb in size, speed, running style and versatility.
The Skinny: Talented versatile playmaker with impact ability in a few roles. Developed receiving skills and best suited for the slot or 3rd down role in backfield. Top return skills and a difference maker for field position. Playmaking ability should earn him early slot time. Well-rounded athlete with speed and natural running skills with game changing ability. Game changer and marginal top 40 athlete with the talent to give an offense a boost and difference maker early.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years. He was a 20 year Scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl.

Rookie Wide Receiver DK Metcalf Shines in Big Games
Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2019

Rookie receiver DK Metcalf has been a major difference maker for the Seahawks after being taken as the last player chosen in Round Two last April, #64 overall. Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him the #1 receiver in the NFL Draft 2019 class. Incredibly, Metcalf was the 9^th receiver taken off the NFL Draft 2019 board and arguably the best value in the entire draft class. He faces the Packers in Green Bay Sunday in the NFC Divisional round.

Wide Receiver Class
Draft Insiders’ 2019 Yearbook Scouting Report – March 2019

 1 * DK Metcalf #14           6-3        225  –  Mississippi  – Sp. 4.35
Player Comparison: David Boston                        Rating 90

Smooth sure handed redshirt sophomore has shown elite receiving skills during his abbreviated career at Ole Miss. Blue chip prospect and a specimen that defines the position. He has rare physical talent in the mold of Calvin Johnson, Terrell Owens or Julio Jones. Unfortunately, he struggled through a few major injuries during his time in the SEC and though he was productive, did not live up to his unique athleticism. Consensus Freshman 1st-Team All-American. Deceptively fast on deeper routes and has the fluidity as a route-runner to separate from coverage at the route stem. Long arms with good lean muscle development and fine functional strength. Big play presence which backs up his workout warrior numbers. On the field, he looks like a chiseled strong forward and plays up to his all-around wide receiver talent. His field speed is even more impressive than his track speed where his long stride is deceiving. He runs crisp and precise routes and is outstanding at creating separation coming out of his breaks. He does extremely well at using nuanced body language, as well as ability to change speed, to set up defensive backs. His hands are soft, strong, and natural. He can seamlessly pluck the ball at full extension, whether using one or two hands. He makes the acrobatic or contested catch with regularity, but also the routine ones to move the chains. In the clutch situations on 3rd down or in the red zone, he rarely drops passes.  Shows explosiveness and elusiveness after the catch with quick footwork to create space. With the ball, he is tough after the catch with the speed to run away from or the power to overrun defenders. Outstanding hand-eye coordination and able to elevate and high point the ball. Reads zone coverage well and knows how to find and settle in the soft spots. Able to maintain concentration on making the catch and tapping his toes in bounds at the sidelines. Very alert to work his way back to the passer. High character individual who is well respected and liked. Committed to the program and willing to sacrifice for the team. Honest effort as a blocker both in the run game and in the secondary for his fellow receivers.

The Numbers:  As a sophomore, he caught just 26 passes for 569 yards for a 21.9 average and 5 TDs while starting 7 games. As a freshman, he started 12 games and had 39 catches for 646 yards with a 16.8 yard average and 7 TDs. For his career, he totaled 67 catches for 1228 yards and 14 scores. At the NFL Combine, he came in at over 6’3” and 228 lbs. with 34 7/8” arms and 9 7/8” hands. He did 27 reps and ran 4.33 time and had a 40.5” VL and 11’2” BJ with a 4.50 short shuttle and 7.38 three cone. It was an excellent workout. Similar to former #1 pick David Boston in physique, athleticism and limited production. Also similar to wideout Julio Jones in size, speed, body type and AA. Son of former NFL guard Terrace Metcalf and grandson of for Pro Bowl runner Terry Metcalf.

The Skinny:  Highly developed young receiver with rare playmaking ability to be a weapon both outside and inside. Tough athlete will go over the middle. Top 20 prospect and could go earlier in the round with the demand at the position. Huge ceiling as an NFL wideout, but also a low floor and more a chiseled athlete then a refined receiver. Injury prone blue-chip prospect will have to prove durable in the pro game. Prior neck and foot injuries. Talent to start as a rookie in the right situation. Big playmaker with the skills to bring it all together and have a Pro Bowl career, if committed to the rigors of NFL life and the finer points of the position.

Draft Projection: 1st Round

NFL Draft 2019 – Draft Insiders’ – Scouting Report
  Linebacker Chase Winovich – Michigan

   Frank Coyle/ Head scout

Here is Draft Insiders’ Yearbook scouting report on one of the fastest rising defensive prospects in this class, defensive end/ linebacker Chase Winovich of Michigan.  He is a prospect we have scouted since early in his career when he flashed impact in a few roles for the tough Wolverine defense. He is a three down defender who has the flexibility to play both with his hand in the dirt and up off the edge. He became a core defender on the highly ranked Michigan defense which will probably see four defensive prospects selected in the top 100 with three hearing their names in the top 40-50 selections. Winovich performed very well vs top Big Ten talent which supplies many offensive linemen annually to the NFL. He had an outstanding postseason concluding with a very impressive showing at his Pro Day and the NFL Combine.  He performed despite coming off ankle surgery during the early postseason prior to the NFL Combine and undergoing wrist surgery following his March 15th Pro Day. He performed outstanding at both events and was impressive at interviews.  He is ranked our #4 Outside Linebacker and a top 40-50 prospect.

 Order NFL Draft Yearbook on upper right – Over 300 In-depth Scouting Reports
Special Packages available now – Scouting Reports Posted on Web Site 

  NFL Team Report 2019 (40 pages) is available now   Update Report prior NFL Draft 2019

Draft Insiders’ – 2019 Yearbook Scouting Report

Outside Linebacker
 Chase Winovich #15               6-3        255       Michigan – Sp. 4.60
    Player Comparison: Rob Ninkovich                      Rating 86
High motor versatile senior defender had a fine career, earning Big Ten honors over his final two seasons. Earned first team honors in 2018 with his big play ability off the edge. Strong frame with good weight room strength that translates well to the field. Good height and arm length with a solid base to be a three-down defender at both the weak side end position in 4-3 set or up in the 3-4 scheme. Good burst off the edge and transfers to power with fine technique to win vs bigger athletes. Sound instincts with the versatility and toughness to play either outside spot in basic fronts. Skill set to be effective in run support and a quality pass rusher. After an impressive sophomore effort, he established himself as a developing prospect with good instincts, functional strength and speed. Displays strong quick hands to keep blockers off his body and separate to gain penetration. Shows strength and leverage to hold the point with the speed and flexibility to chase in pursuit and break down well in space. As an edge rusher, he has deceptive quickness and speed to rush the passer with the functional strength to win late on the down. Holds the point with sound leverage and hand usage, though struggles when facing combo blocks. Fluid flexible athlete who can stack vs big blockers when technically sound. Shows the quickness to move laterally and make plays with hand technique to disengage from blockers. Combines good functional strength with speed on the snap to also counter back inside. Shows a burst to the ball once he frees himself from blockers with the agility and flexibility to redirect and chase from the backside. Utilizes his hand punch to strike an opponent and separate to pursue the ball. As a pass rusher, he relies too much on his initial power move and needs more development on his swim maneuver to win. Average acceleration at the top of his arc. Good short area burst along the line in pursuit. Shows ability to counter and redirect to the inside when his initial move is contained. As a senior, he started 13 games and totaled 69 tackles with 17 TFL, 1 PBU and 5 sacks, earning 2nd team Big Ten. As a junior, he made 79 tackles with 18.5 TFL and 8 sacks starting 13 games, earning first team Big Ten. At the NFL Combine, he came in at just under 6’3” and 256 lbs. and did 18 reps with a wrist that required surgery soon after the event. He ran a 4.59 time with a 30.5” VL and 9’8” BJ with a 4.11 shuttle and a 6.94 three cone to complete a very good overall effort. Athlete with versatility to start at a few positions and both sets. Two postseason surgeries, an ankle injury early in postseason and a March wrist surgery after performing well at his Pro day. Probable early starter if he settles into the right scheme and learns the finer points of technique. Top 50 prospect with upside to start. Similar to Rob Ninkovich in many ways, including intangibles, power and schematic versatility. Savvy instinctive defender and capable of 40 snaps weekly. Good 2nd day value and gritty NFL starter.
                                                                          Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Biletnikoff, Thorpe, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

NFL Draft Yearbook 2019 – Scouting Report
Safety Darnell Savage – Maryland

   Frank Coyle/ Head scout

   Here is our scouting report on one of the fastest rising defensive prospects in this class, safety Darnell Savage of Maryland.  He is a prospect we have scouted since his sophomore season when he flashed impact in a few roles in the Terps’ secondary. He is a three down defender who has the ability to play the slot or centerfield positions. He performed well vs top ACC talent and had an outstanding postseason concluding with a very impressive showing at the NFL Combine.  He is ranked as our #3 safety and a top 50 prospect. No other publication or web site ranked him in the top 10 safeties entering April.

 Order NFL Draft Yearbook on upper right – Over 300 In-depth Scouting Reports –  Special Packages available now 

  NFL Team Report 2019 (35 pages) will be out this week.  Update Report prior NFL Draft

Draft Insiders’ – Yearbook Scouting Report

Darnell Savage #4                    5-11      195       Maryland – Sp. 4.45     
   Player Comparison: Tyrann Mathieu                  Rating 88
Hard-hitting dynamo safety has been the leader of the Terps’ secondary for the past three seasons. Rangy versatile defender developed into a ball hawk, lining up at free safety and also dropping into the nickel defender where he also excelled. Earned first team Big Ten honors along with 2nd team All-American by DraftInsiders.com in 2018. Stepped in as a full-time starter in 2016 as a true sophomore after time as a nickel corner during his true freshman season. Strong compact athlete combines excellent speed, quickness and fluid athleticism with keen instincts to be a three-down defender. Displays the versatility to lineup at a few spots in the sub packages. At times, he seeks to deliver big stops, but is not a violent hitter and his marginal size is a concern related to holding up to the physicality of the game. More a drag down tackler, though reliable especially in the open field where he breaks down well in space. Displays an awesome closing burst, arriving with good pad level to maintain leverage and breakup passes. He has outstanding read-react ability and attacks with an aggressive manner with a motor that knows only one speed. Drives through his target upon contact and able to finish. Lined up in a variety of ways, usually the high safety and slot corner in different alignments. Very effective single-high safety with excellent range to make up ground and get to the ball. Often lined up over a slot receiver, and shows the quick footwork to mirror off the line well with the closing speed to break up passes. Highly versatile with the range and instincts to play free in the deep middle and at times the toughness and run stopping ability to be the eighth man in the box. He has fine instincts for man-coverage with dependable hands to hang on to his interception opportunities. Keeps his head on a swivel in coverage and reacts to the ball quickly. Attacks the throw at the catch point as if he was the receiver. Average height and excellent leaping ability allow him to win jump-ball throws. Plays all facets of the game with a strong sense of urgency. He does however, lack ideal size, especially for a heavy diet of playing in the box. In 2018, started 12 games and had 52 tackles, 5.5 TFL, no sacks, 4 picks and 2 PBU. Earned first team Big Ten honors. In 2017, started 12 games and made 59 tackles, 3 picks and 8 PBU. For his career, totaled 182 tackles with 9 TFL, 8 picks and 14 PBU. Best suited for playing single high scheme. Fine athleticism to be a three-down defender. At the NFL Combine, he came in just under 5’11” and 198 lbs. with 31” arms. He ran a 4.45 time, 11 reps, a 39.5” VL and a 10’6“ BJ with 4.14 shuttle and 7.03 three cone. Excellent positional drills to complete a well-rounded workout. Similar to safety Tyrann Mathieu in natural talent and versatility. Also, for the old draftniks, he is similar to safety Bob Sanders, one of the best defenders in the league during his time with the Colts. He has the speed, quickness and ball skills to be an early starter and compares to Mathieu in size, AA and versatility. Shows flexible hips and quick footwork with the instincts to continue to improve in coverage. Talent to be a difference maker if coupled with a good box safety. High quality athlete and football player with experience to compete for time in different packages and an excellent addition. Probable early starting ability and in addition he could win the nickel role in camp. Valuable versatility with fast developing talent and a three-down defender. Rising marginal top 40 selection with impact talent. Teams like the Giants, Redskins, Cowboys and Chiefs have him on their short list in the early 2nd round.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Biletnikoff, Thorpe, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

NFL Draft Yearbook 2019 – Scouting Report
Defensive Tackle Khalen Saunders – Western Illinois

   Frank Coyle/ Head scout

   Here is our scouting report on our highest rated small college prospect, DT Khalen Saunders of Western Illinois. He is a prospect we have scouted since his sophomore season when he flashed impact from the inside. He is a three down defender who has the burst to rush the passer and can win with both speed and power. At the Senior Bowl in January, he performed well vs the top talent once again assembled at the premier All-Star event. He followed the Senior Bowl fine performance with another impressive showing at the NFL Combine.  

 Order NFL Draft Yearbook on upper right – Over 300 In-depth Scouting Reports
Special Packages available now 

  NFL Team Report 2019 (35 pages) will be out this week.  Update Report prior NFL Draft

Scouting Report – Defensive Tackle

Khalen Saunders #99   6-1        325       Western Illinois – Sp. 5.0         
    Player Comparison: Brandon Mebane                    Rating 82
Explosive mobile interior senior has been a disruptive force at the FCS level over his three starting seasons. Three-time MVFC honors with his final season as the DPY honors. His talent did not go unnoticed and earned invitations to both the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. A prospect that I have scouted extensively since early in his junior season. Dominant tackle in the MVFC which has produced many NFL players. Excellent athlete with natural power and fine short area quickness.  Quick penetrator excelled despite double team blocks regularly. Thick low based defender brings a well-rounded skill set and NFL ability to the table. Legitimate NFL starter in a zero or one-technique role with development. Despite his short arms, he has strong quick hands to explode through gaps and get into the backfield consistently. Finishes with strong tackling, including on the perimeter. Uses his lack of ideal height to his advantage with natural leverage to get under blockers, penetrate and separate. Shows very good initial quickness to threaten gaps and use his powerful punch to jolt blockers. Able to use his strong hands to counter and push off big blockers with his initial thrust. As a pass rusher, he wins on his initial charge and totaled 18 career sacks with 14 over his final two seasons. At times, gets wired to blockers when his initial burst is contained and he can struggle to get sacks late in the down. Displays fine flexibility and the ability to stay low, use leverage and strike and move an opponent off the line. Understands hand usage and capable of controlling an opponent when he uses sound inside placement. Very light on his feet and is able to adjust and redirect to finish. At the Senior Bowl, he performed very well including doing back flips a la JPP. Sure wrap up tackler and capable of exploding to the ball with the range to make plays outside the box. After extensive playing time and facing much double blocking, he has developed sound instincts and awareness for draws, misdirection and screens. Good sense of timing to peel off blockers to get to the ball. Relies on his initial quickness and natural leverage to defeat blocks. Works hard to rush the passer, but needs additional moves. Best suited to play nose tackle in the zero or one-technique role. As a senior, he started 11 games and had 72 tackles with 13 TFL, 1 FF, 1 FR, 5 QB hurries and 6.5 sacks. Earned 1st team FCS All-American honors. As a junior, he started 12 games and registered 57 tackles along with 12 TFL, 7.5 sacks, 3 FF and 1 FR, earning first team MVFC honors. Over his career, he totaled 204 tackles, 34.5 TFLs, 4 FF, 3 FR and 18 sacks. Rare production for a nose tackle. At the NFL Combine, he came in under 6’1”, 324 lbs. with 32 1/4” arms and 9 1/8” hands. He ran a 5.01 time and did 27 reps. Added a 30.5” VL, 8’5” BJ, 4.62 shuttle and 7.57 three cone. Similar to Brandon Mebane in size, AA and quickness to also play tackle in a 4-3 scheme. Contributes early in a line rotation and can a key factor as a situational tackle. Early rotational tackle presents a fine change of pace for starters. Good early 3rd day selection with upside to surprise and be a quality starter in time. Top 100 prospect here and may be drafted in the 3rd round. One of the emerging defenders in this entire draft with a huge ceiling to start and provide an athletic anchor in the middle.
Draft Projection: 3rd-4th Round

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – RB Sony Michel – Patriots

  By Frank Coyle

       Draft Insiders’ will post Rookie spotlight players regularly and their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. Scouting Reports are written from the fall into March annually.

Rookie runner Sony Michel has been one of the top impact first year players in the NFL this season. He has been a  difference maker for the Patriots current playoff run. In their opening playoff game victory over the Chargers, he rushed for 129 yards on 24 carries for 3 TDs and 1 reception for 9 yards. He was instrumental as their run to a 35-0 first half advantage that never relinquished.

For his rookie season, he rushed for 931 yards on just 209 carries for a 4.5 yard average and 6 TDs. He added 7 receptions. Over the season, he has split time with veteran James White to give the Pats a combo that averaged 4.5 yards per attempt.

Michel is an every down back and one of the most productive runners over an SEC career prior to this season. His well rounded talent translated quickly to the NFL and he has been an interchangeable part for all the Patriots offensive packages.

 Here is his Scouting Report from Draft Insiders’ Yearbook 2018 written March 2018

 Sony Michel #1 – Georgia                     5-11      215        – Sp. 4.50
    Player Comparison: Isaiah Crowell                        Rating 60                                                                
Talented multi-dimensional all around back has been an impact performer for the Bulldogs the past three seasons. Earned SEC honors in 2017 after an excellent overall performance. Tough natural low based runner shows quick feet with good size and speed to be an NFL feature back. Slides nicely laterally and runs with a wiggle to string multiple moves together. Gets to top speed quickly with the ability to adjust his speed and change gears well. On the 2nd level, he has a burst to run away from defenders. Displays good lower body power and is able to make consistent yardage after contact. Keeps his pad level down to run over defenders. 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 shorter routes, though only a limited route tree and needs some further development. 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 good balance and functional strength. Explosive when he sees a crease and is capable of making huge yardage. Good vision and awareness to keep drives alive. Versatile talent to give an offense a unique weapon to command special attention in every situation and high level 1A type.

The Numbers:  As a senior in 2017, he shared time with Nick Chubb and played in 14 games and rushed for 1227 yards on 156 carries for a 7.9 yard average and 16 TDs. He caught 9 passes for 96 yards and 1 TD. As a junior, he rushed for 840 yards on 152 carries for a 5.5 average and 4 TDs. He caught 22 passes for 149 yards and 1 TD. As a sophomore, he rushed for over 1000 yards with 8 TDs and 26 receptions and 3 TDs. Over his career, he rushed for 3638 yards on 591 carries for 6.2 yard average with 33 rushing TDs and 64 catches with 6 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 5’10”, 214 lbs. and ran a 4.54 time. He did 22 reps, a 4.21 shuttle and no other events. At the pro day, he looked sharp in drills, catching the ball and looking smooth in 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 prospects and capable of being a quality feature back similar to rookie sensation Alvin Kamara who we were very high on last year. Kamara’s YB Scouting Report is on web site. Also, Frank Gore and Isaiah Crowell in size, style and speed. Fine addition with starting talent to be a three down back, though more a complete 1A type and nice asset for any backfield.

Draft Projection: 2nd Round

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – LB Darius Leonard – Colts

By Frank Coyle

       Draft Insiders’ will post Rookie spotlight players regularly and their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. Scouting Reports are written from the fall into March annually.

Rookie Darius Leonard has been one of the top impact first year players in the NFL this season. He has been a major difference maker for the Colts playoff run. He has been an every down defender and one of the most productive defenders in the league. His well rounded talent translated quickly to the NFL and he has been an interchangeable defender for all the Colts package defenses

 Here is his Scouting Report from Draft Insiders’ Yearbook 2018 written March 2018

 Darius Leonard #10     South Carolina St         6-2       235       – Sp. 4.65       
    Player Comparison: Thomas Davis                                   Rating 80

Athletic, active, senior finished his small college career with incredible consistency as an every down defender. Earned MEAC honors annually, completing his career with an impressive Senior Bowl week. Long rangy defender with fine field speed to make plays at the opposite sideline and drop in coverage. Lean frame and probably has maxed out at the 235 lb. level. His athleticism, quickness, toughness and consistent effort vs a high level of competition stand out on film. Good movement skills with good instincts and fluid hips. Top instincts and quick reactions to use his fine speed and athleticism to make plays. Fiery on-field character with explosive closing speed and able to cover a lot of ground quickly in pursuit. Flashes burst to close on the ball especially in close quarters. Powerful tackler and really brings his pads on contact and consistently able to finish. Good initial quickness off the snap to read plays and defeat blocking angles. Able to contort his body to dip around a block and drop ball-carriers. Holds point fairly well with adequate functional strength. Above average change-of-direction allows him to redirect in space and stay with receivers. Developing cover man with improving ball skills to compete for the Will position in the NFL. That is his best position. Very experienced and effective on all special teams’ coverage units where his sure tackling ranks him as one of the premier special teams’ defenders in this class. High level of self-motivation and excellent competitive drive. Outstanding quickness makes it tough for blockers to get a good fit and compensates for marginal size. Moves laterally well and keeps blockers off his body to flow to the ball. Well-developed backfield vision and usually on time recognizing route concepts. In 2017, he had 114 tackles with 12 TFL and 8.5 sacks, 10 QB hurries, 1 FF, 1 PBU and 2 interceptions. Earned 1st team MEAC honors. In 2016, started 11 games and posted 124 tackles with 14.5 TFLs, 3.5 sacks, 4 FF, 3 PBU and 2 interceptions. Earned 1st team MEAC honors. Good early part time defender and special teams’ performer from his true freshman season. Over his career, recorded 394 tackles with 22 sacks, 53 TFLs, 8 FF, 3 FR, 6 interceptions and 7 PBUs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 6’2”, 234 lbs. with 34 3/8” arms. He ran a 4.70 time with a 1.67 ten-yard split and did 17 reps.  He was average in the positional drills. Lack of ideal size causes concern about durability. Best fit as Will backer. Many of the same skills as Thomas Davis with keen instincts, big play talent and good work habits. Rising top 100 prospect with upside and the AA to become a pro playmaker in either a 4-3  or 3-4 set. Fine run and chase defender and rising talent with early starting ability. Needs work in coverage for nickel role, but displays the skills to start there. Outstanding special teams’ ability earns him a roster spot. Top three small college prospect to be a fixture in a 4-3 set. Probable Will starter with some coverage work. 

                                                                        Draft Projection: 3rd Round