NFL Draft 2019 – First Round Draft Selection Order

With four games remaining in the 2018 season, the first round order for the NFL Draft 2019 is shaping the selection process. Currently, as many as 28 clubs still have mathematical chances to earn playoff spots. This weekend will probably eliminate another 5-6 clubs from any postseason play.

San Francisco and Oakland remain at the #1 and #2 spots with their 2-10 records. The 49ers earn the first overall selection currently on a weaker strength of opponents Won Loss record. The Jets and Cardinals hold the #3 and #4 overall choices on the merit of their poor 3-9 records. There is a logjam with five clubs at 4-8 and another two teams with a 4-7-1 records.

This weekend features a few key matchups, Jets vs Bills, Falcons vs Packers, Lions vs Cardinals that can change the top 10-12 selection spots significantly.

# Team / W-L / Opponents W-L %

1 San Francisco –  2-10    .526
2 Oakland       –  2-10      .568
3 NY Jets        –  3-9        .503
4 Arizona        –  3-9        .521
5 Detroit         –  4-8        .500
6 Atlanta         –  4-8        .503
7 NY Giants    –  4-8        .510
8 Buffalo        –  4-8        .521
9 Jacksonville –  4-8        .544
10 Green Bay   – 4-7-1     .479
11 Cleveland   –  4-7-1     .536
12 Tampa Bay – 5-7        .505
13 Cincinnati   –  5-7        .531
14 Miami         –  6-6        .453
15 Indianapolis  – 6-6        .469
16 Washington  – 6-6        .477
17 Carolina     –  6-6        .500
18 Tennessee  –  6-6        .516
19 Denver       –  6-6        .526
20 Philadelphia – 6-6        .529
21 Minnesota  –  6-5-1     .490
22 Oakland (Dallas)  –     7-5        .484
23 Seattle      –   7-5        .495
24 Baltimore  –   7-5        .500
25 Pittsburgh  –  7-4-1     .510
26 Oakland (Chicago)  –  8-4        .438
27 Houston     –  9-3        .456
28 New England  –          9-3        .477
29 LA Chargers – 9-3        .478
30 Green Bay (New Orleans)  –    10-2      .492
31 Kansas City  – 10-2      .490
32 LA Rams     – 11-1      .469

Kentucky’s Josh Allen Wins 2018 Bronko Nagurski Trophy

Linebacker is Wildcat’s first major award winner since 1950

FWAA – Kentucky linebacker Josh Allen was named the recipient of the 2018 Bronko Nagurski Trophy on Monday night before a sold-out banquet crowd of 1,200 at the Charlotte Convention Center. Allen, a 6-foot-5, 260-pound linebacker from Montclair, N.J., accepted the award given to the best defensive player in college football and becomes Kentucky’s first major award winner since Bob Gain won the Outland Trophy in 1950.

The FWAA All-America Committee made Allen the selection as this year’s Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner. Allen was selected from a list of finalists that included Michigan linebacker Devin Bush, LSU safety Grant Delpit, Clemson defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and Alabama nose guard Quinnen Williams.

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.

Frank Coyle voted for LB Josh Allen of Kentucky this year.

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The senior has been one of the nation’s top pass rushers all season with 14 sacks in the 2018 season that led the Southeastern Conference and are third in the nation, to go with SEC-best marks of 18.5 tackles for loss and five forced fumbles. His 14 sacks are the single-season record at Kentucky, as are his 28.5 career sacks heading into the Wildcats’ VRBO Citrus Bowl appearance on Jan. 1.

Allen has 11 career forced fumbles, which ties former Wildcat and current Chicago Bears linebacker Danny Trevathan for the Wildcats’ career mark. His defensive numbers improved as the games wore on – 12 of his 14 sacks have come in the second half, with eight of those 12 in the fourth quarter. He clinched two of Kentucky’s nine wins this season with a sack that caused a fumble that the Wildcats recovered on their opponents’ final possession. In addition, those 14 sacks have been drive-breakers for opponents. Of the 14 drives in which Allen registered a sack, opponents ran 81 plays for just 211 yards of total offense, or 2.6 yards per play. The 14 drives combined resulted in no points, eight punts and four turnovers.

Allen was the SEC Defensive Player of the Week four times this season and posted double-figure tackles in three games. On the season, Allen has 84 total tackles, six quarterback hurries, four pass breakups and two fumble recoveries.

“Just the way he impacts the game being a big guy, he’s really remarkable,” Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops said following a Nov. 17 win over Middle Tennessee. “He’s so unselfish. You see players so often in situations like that (trying to make a play), and he won’t blink an eye if we’re not rushing him. He doesn’t even think about it. When he gets his opportunities, he’s going to go. He wanted the (school sack) record, but not at the expense of our defense and what we’re doing and game planning.”

Allen was an all-state wide receiver for Abbeville (Ala.) High School as a junior before moving back to his hometown of Montclair, N.J., and switching to linebacker for his senior season. He bulked up by 40 pounds upon arriving at Kentucky. He has a fraternal twin brother Isaiah, and a sister, Myisha Hines-Allen, who played college basketball at Louisville and is currently a forward for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics.

The FWAA has chosen a National Defensive Player of the Year since 1993. In 1995, the FWAA joined with the Charlotte Touchdown Club and named the award in honor of the legendary two-way player from the University of Minnesota. Nagurski dominated college football then became a star for professional football’s Chicago Bears in the 1930s. Bronislaw “Bronko” Nagurski is a charter member of both the College Football and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA), which encompasses college football’s most prestigious awards. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA and its 24 awards now boast over 800 recipients, dating to 1935. Visit ncfaa.org to learn more about our story.

The Football Writers Association of America, founded in 1941, consists of 1,300 men and women who cover college football. The membership includes journalists, broadcasters and publicists, as well as key executives in all the areas that involve the game. The FWAA works to govern areas that include game-day operations, major awards and its annual All-America team. For more information about the FWAA and its award programs, contact Steve Richardson at tiger@fwaa.com.

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 over 25 years.

NFL Power Poll – Week 12

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Beat Chiefs In Wild Monday Night Shootout
Goff and Mahomes Excel in Classic Matchup

Team of the Week –
    Rams edge Chiefs, 54-51

Upset of the Week
Detroit beats Carolina, 20-19
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Patrick Mahomes – Chiefs     
  Defense – LB Kahlil Mack – Bears

 Rookies of Week
    Offense – RB Saquon Barkley – Giants
    Defense – Safety Justin Reid – Texans

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Game of Week #12 – Washington Redskins (6-4) at Dallas Cowboys (5-5)  
Cowboys Hope to turn Redskins in Turkey Club

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 12

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -10-1 Rams
Rams’ beat the Chiefs to claim #1 ranking.

#2 – 9-2 Chiefs
Chiefs’ riding hot arm of young Patrick Mahomes.

#3 – 9-1 Saints
Saints’ host the Falcons in key South matchup. Veteran QB Drew Brees continues his MVP season.

#4 – 7-3 Patriots
Pats are rested for their stretch run.

#5 – 7-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ edged the Jaguars to maintain North leadership.

#6 – 7-3 Texans
Texans’ win their 7^th straight vs the Skins. Host the Titans in key divisional matchup.

#7 – 7-3 Bears
The Bears are coming off big win over the Vikings. Better not sleep on the Lions on Thanksgiving day.

#8 – 7-3 Chargers
Chargers lost tough one to the Broncos. Get the Cardinals at home in vital game.

#9 – 6-4 Panthers
Panthers lost to the Lions. Get Seahawks at home in key NFC matchup with playoff ramifications.

#10 – 5-4-1 Vikings
Vikings sliding with loss to the Bears. Host Packers Sunday night in telltale North contest.

#11 – 5-5 Seahawks
Seahawks edged the Packers. Go to Carolina in effort to get over .500.

#12 – 6-4 Redskins
The Redskins lose QB Alex Smith in defeat to the Texans. Turkey day in Dallas is a major challenge.

#13 – 5-5 Cowboys
The Cowboys are alive again and hope to take the next step with Thanksgiving matchup with Skins.

#14 – 5-5 Titans
The Titans face their most important South matchup with trip to Houston Monday night.

#15 – 4-5-1 Packers
The Packers find ways to lose close games. Trip to Minnesota is a must win situation.

#16 – 5-5 Colts
Colts trashed Titans behind MVP candidate Andrew Luck.

#17 – 5-5 Ravens
Ravens beat Bengals in key situation. Host Da Raiders this week.

#18 – 4-6 Eagles
Eagles were bombed in New Orleans. Host the GMen in a must win situation.

#19 – 4-6 Falcons
Falcons lost a heartbreaker to the Boys. Need a W in New Orleans.

#20 – 5-5 Dolphins
Dolphins face key matchup in Indy for any playoff hopes.

#21 – 5-5 Bengals
Bengals’ host the Browns in must win situation for postseason play.

#22- 4-6 Broncos
Broncos won a tough battle with the Chargers. Host the Steelers in a must win situation Sunday.

#23 – 3-6-1 Browns
Browns rested for tough finish with a few difficult road games on the schedule.

#24 – 4-6 Lions
Lions looking for revenge on the Bears on Turkey day.

#25 – 3-7 Giants
The Giants are looking respectable with a two game winning streak.

#26 – 3-7 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lost their six straight vs the Steelers.

#27 – 3-7 Bucs
Bucs host the 49ers in a game for major draft order implications.

#28 – 3-7 Bills
Bills hope to keep the momentum from their impressive victory for the Jets.

#29 – 3-7 Jets
Jets’ host the Patriots in hope of breaking their 4 game losing streak.

#30 – 2-8 49ers
The 49ers need a win to stay focused for the rest of the schedule.

#31 – 2-8 Cardinals
Cardinals may be the worst team in the league after their loss to the Raiders.

#32 – 2-8 Raiders
Da Raiders edged out the Cards to end their losing streak.

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 20 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

NFL Power Poll – Week 11

  Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Host Chiefs In Conference Leadership Battle
Brees, Trubisky and Roethlsberger Star in Impressive Wins

Teams of the Week –
    Saints crush Bengals, 51-15
   Steelers bash Panthers, 52-21
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Mitchell Trubisky – Bears     
  Defense – DE Cameron Heyward – Steelers
 
Rookies of Week
    RB Nick Chubb – Browns
    LB Darius Leonard – Colts

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Game of Week #11 – Kansas City Chiefs (9-1) at LA Rams (9-1)  
Rams get a home game with Mexican grass fiasco

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 11

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -9-1 Rams
Rams’ beat the Seahawks. Pumped for the Chiefs.

#2 – 9-1 Chiefs
Chiefs’ cruising behind explosive offense and improving defense.

#3 – 8-1 Saints
Saints’ win their 8^th straight game with another record setting performance by veteran QB Drew Brees.

#4 – 7-3 Patriots
Pats struggled vs tough Titan club lead by ex-player and coach Mike Vrabel.

#5 – 6-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ starting to peat and will go forward without star runner Le’Veon Bell.

#6 – 7-2 Chargers
Chargers are learning how to win the divisional games.

#7 – 6-3 Panthers
Panthers were punched out by Pittsburgh in a huge Thursday night matchup.

#8 – 6-3 Texans
Texans’ are rested for their trip to Washington of divisional leaders.

#9 – 6-3 Bears
The Bears are looking like a playoff club. Host the Vikings with a chance to gain a strong hold on NFC North leadership.

#10 – 5-3-1 Vikings
Vikings travel to Chi town for critical North leadership in the balance.

#11 – 6-3 Redskins
The Redskins host the Texans looking for signature victory of the season.

#12 – 4-5 Eagles
Eagles lost to the staggering Cowboys. Go to New Orleans in a must win situation.

#13 – 4-5 Seahawks
Seahawks host the Packers in a must situation for both clubs playoff hopes.

#14 – 5-4 Titans
The Titans won another big game this time vs the Patriots. Travel to Indy for vital AFC South matchup.

#15 – 4-4-1 Packers
The Packers face a season defining matchup in Seattle on Thursday night.

#16 – 4-5 Cowboys
The Cowboys beat the Eagles to keep alive their NFC playoff hopes.

#17 – 4-5 Falcons
Falcons are still struggling to get the defense together.

#18 – 5-5 Dolphins
Dolphins are floundering in mediocrity.

#19 – 4-5 Colts
Colts won their third straight vs the Jaguars. Host the rising Titans in great matchup.

#20 – 5-4 Bengals
Bengals’ were trashed by the Saints. Go to Baltimore for divisional matchup.

#21 – 4-5 Ravens
Ravens lost their fourth straight game. Get the crumbling Bengals at home this week.

#22 – 3-6-1 Browns
Browns coming off big win vs the Falcons. Bye week before two road games.

#23 – 3-6 Lions
Lions were pounded in Chicago. Maybe last chance at home vs the Panthers to get back into postseason picture.

#24 – 3-6 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lose their five straight in another weak offensive performance.

#25- 3-6 Broncos
Broncos face heavy AFC schedule down the stretch.

#26 – 3-6 Bucs
Bucs face the Giants after another poor effort.

#27 – 3-7 Bills
Bills exploded against the Jets. Get their bye week to celebrate.

#28 – 3-7 Jets
Jets’ were embarrassed by the Bills and third string QB Matt Barkley.

#29 – 2-7 Giants
The Giants looking for two game winning streak with the Bucs coming to town.

#30 – 2-8 49ers
The 49ers fell to the Giants Monday night. Bye week to prepare for stretch.

#31 – 2-7 Cardinals
Cardinals host the Raiders in the Basement bowl.

#32 – 1-8 Raiders
The Raiders pathetic offense has hit new lows in recent weeks.

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 20 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

NFL Power Poll – Week 10

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Taste First Defeat to The Saints
Brady Outshines Rodgers in Patriots 31-17 Victory

Teams of the Week –
    Saints over Rams, 45-35
Steelers beat Ravens, 23-16
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Drew Brees – Saints     
  Defense – DE Danielle Hunter – Vikings
 
Rookies of Week
    WR Calvin Ridley – Falcons
    LB Roquan Smith – Bears

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Games of Week #10 – Seattle Seahawks (4-4) at LA Rams (8-1)  
Rams host their divisional rival Seahawks, that may decide NFC West title.

 Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 10

NFL Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 1 -8-1 Rams
Rams’ suffered their first loss to the Saints. The ‘72 Dolphins party time.

#2 – 8-1 Chiefs
Chiefs’ offense is the most explosive in the game.

#3 – 7-1 Saints
Saints’ are peaking now with their seven-game winning streak. QB Drew Brees is playing like an MVP candidate.

#4 – 7-2 Patriots
Pats took care of the Packers behind another classic performance by QB Tom Brady.

#5 – 6-2 Chargers
Chargers beat the Seahawks in Seattle in a statement performance.

#6 – 6-2 Panthers
Panthers are hot and go to Pittsburgh in a huge Thursday night matchup.

#7 – 5-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ gained revenge to their earlier loss to Ravens with big victory in Baltimore.

#8 – 6-3 Texans
Texans’ toughed a difficult win in Denver. Get their bye week to gear up for South division run.

#9 – 5-3-1 Vikings
Vikings beat the Lions to go into their bye on a divisional victory.

#10 – 5-3 Bengals
Bengals’ host the Saints coming off their bye in a huge interconference matchup.

#11 – 4-4 Eagles
Eagles host the staggering Cowboys in a key NFC East contest.

#12 – 5-3 Redskins
The Redskins were smoked by the Falcons in their poorest defensive performance of the season.

#13 – 4-4 Seahawks
Seahawks travel to LA to face divisional leader the Rams in a must situation for their playoff hopes.

#14 – 5-3 Bears
The Bears host the faltering Lions with a chance to gain a strong hold on NFC North leadership.

#15 – 5-4 Dolphins
Dolphins go to Titletown to face the desperate Packers.

#16 – 3-4-1 Packers
The Packers host the Fish in a must win situation to keep alive their slim playoff hopes.

#17 – 4-4 Falcons
Falcons offense is carrying this club in hopes of getting healthy on the defensive side of the ball soon.

#18 – 4-5 Ravens
Ravens lost their third straight game. Much needed bye this week before second half schedule.

#19 – 4-4 Titans
The Titans won a big game vs Cowboys. Host the Patriots which may determine any postseason hopes.

#20 – 3-5 Colts
Colts are coming off their bye week and host the Jaguars that will determine any playoff hopes.

#21 – 3-5 Lions
Lions go to Chicago in a desperate situation after another disappointing performance vs the Vikings.

#22 – 3-5 Cowboys
The Cowboys were pounded by the Titans. Face Eagles in a must win situation for any NFC playoff hopes.

#23 – 3-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ are coming off their bye week and travel to Indy for key divisional matchup.

#24- 3-6 Broncos
Broncos are on their bye week after a disappointing loss especially by their offense.

#25 – 3-5 Bucs
Bucs host the Skins in a must win spot after another poor defensive effort.

#26 – 3-6 Jets
Jets’ failed in a big spot in Miami with rookie QB Sam Darnold throwing four picks.

#27 – 2-6-1 Browns
Browns defense gave up almost 500 yards in their loss to the Chiefs.

#28 – 2-7 49ers
The 49ers beat the Raiders and look to extend it to a two game stretch with the Giants coming in Monday night.

#29 – 2-6 Cardinals
Cardinals go to KC to face Patrick Mahomes. They had two weeks to prepare.

#30 – 2-7 Bills
Bills were trashed by the Bears. Go to MetLife to face the equally struggling Jets.

#31 – 1-7 Giants
The Giants could not lose last week during the bye week. Go to San Fran for a bottom feeder matchup.

#32 – 1-7 Raiders
Da Raiders were taken to the wood shed by the 49ers in last, 34-3. Enough said.

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 20 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

 Maxwell Football Club Announces Chuck Bednarik Award 2018 Semifinalists

Five teams, Alabama, Clemson, LSU, Mississippi St and Washington list two Defensive Players on the Semifinalist List

MSU’s Simmons and Sweat Named Bednarik Award Semifinalists
Mississippi State’s Jeffery Simmons and Montez Sweat, the best defensive line duo in America, were both named semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award on Monday by the Maxwell Football Club.

The Bednarik Award is presented annually to the college defensive player of the year by the Maxwell Football Club. The field of contenders is comprised of 20 candidates, featuring a representative from every Power 5 conference. Simmons is one of two returners from last year’s semifinal list. MSU is one of just five schools with multiple semifinalists, joining Alabama, Clemson, LSU and Washington.

College football’s most feared pass rusher, Sweat is tied for second in the Southeastern Conference and seventh in the Football Bowl Subdivision with 8.5 sacks through eight games this season. He has also racked up 11 tackles for loss, which is the third-most in the SEC. No player in the Power 5 has tallied more sacks since the start of the 2017 season than Sweat, who has 19 in his 21 career games played in that span. Sweat, who led the SEC in sacks with 10.5 in 2017, is looking to become the second player since at least 2002 to lead the league in sacks back-to-back years.

A dominant interior force, Simmons leads all SEC defensive linemen with 39 tackles this season and ranks tied for fourth in the conference with 9.5 tackles for loss. Simmons has recorded 18 stops and 16 total pressures, including 12 hurries. In the 21 games played together, the pair of first-round NFL prospects have combined for 48 tackles for loss (28 vs. SEC). Sweat has 26.5, while Simmons has 21.5 (Simmons has 25.0 in his career). The tandem has also combined for 24 sacks (16.5 vs. SEC) as Sweat has 19 and Simmons has five.

Frank Coyle lists  12 of the 20 junior and senior defenders on his Big Board for the NFL Draft 2019.

Semifinalist voting for the award will  close on Nov. 18. Three finalists will be announced on Nov. 19 and a second round of voting will take place at that time. Eligible voters include Maxwell Football Club members, NCAA head football coaches, sports information directors and selected national media.

The winner will be announced as part of the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show presented by Gildan which will be broadcast live on ESPN on Dec. 6. The formal presentation of these awards will be made at the Maxwell Football Club’s Awards Dinner on Friday, March 8, 2019 at the Tropicana Casino & Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

2018 Chuck Bednarik Award Semifinalists

DT Quinnen Williams, Alabama
S Deionte Thompson, Alabama
DE Zach Allen, Boston College
DE Clelin Ferrell, Clemson
DT Christian Wilkins, Clemson
DE Jachai Polite, Florida
DE Brian Burns, Florida State
CB Deandre Baker, Georgia
DT Ed Oliver, Houston
LB Josh Allen, Kentucky
DE Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech
S Grant Delpit, LSU
LB Devin White, LSU
DE Chase Winovich, Michigan
DE Montez Sweat, Mississippi State
NG Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State
NG Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame
DT Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State
CB Byron Murphy, Washington
LB Ben Burr-Kirven, Washington

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.

NFL Power Poll – Week 9

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll –
Rams Face Saints in Key NFC Matchup
Brady vs Rodgers in Sunday Night Classic

Teams of the Week –
    Saints over Vikings, 30-20
Rams over Packers, 29-27
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – RB Todd Gurley – Rams     
  Defense – DE JJ Watt – Texans
 
Rookies of Week
    QB – Josh Rosen – Cards
    DE – Marcus Davenport – Saints

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Games of Week #9 –

LA Rams (8-0) at New Orleans Saints (6-1)  
Hot Saints host the unbeaten Rams in major NFC Matchup
LA Chargers (5-2) at Seattle Seahawks (4-3)
Vital game for both West divisional playoff contenders

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -8-0 Rams
Rams’ learning how to win tight games weekly in crunch time. Face acid test in New Orleans.

#2 – 7-1 Chiefs
Chiefs go to Cleveland for a tougher matchup that many think.

#3 – 7-1 Saints
Saints’ won another tough road test in Minnesota. Host the unbeaten Rams this week which determines NFC leadership.

#4 – 6-2 Patriots
Pats host the Packers in a classic matchup of QBs, Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers.

#5 – 5-2 Chargers
Chargers face the 12^th man in Seattle in one of the best games of the week.

#6 – 5-2 Panthers
Panthers are coming off victories over the Eagles and Ravens. Host the Bucs Sunday.

#7 – 4-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ travel to Baltimore for their annual bloodbath with the Ravens.

#8 – 5-3 Texans
Texans’ are quietly gaining momentum. Go to Mile High for key AFC matchup.

#9 – 4-3-1 Vikings
Vikings overrated defense came up short again in a big spot vs the Saints.

#10 – 5-3 Bengals
Bengals’ edged out a win vs the Bucs. Bye week before important 2^nd half run.

#11 – 4-4 Ravens
Ravens host the Steelers this week in maybe the best rivalry in the league.

#12 – 5-2 Redskins
The Redskins are learning how to win. Host Atlanta in one of the interesting matchups this week.

#13 – 4-3 Seahawks
Seahawks face the tough two LA teams over the next two weeks that may determine their playoff hopes.

#14 – 4-4 Eagles
Eagles get their bye and look to make a run with a heavy NFC schedule over the 2nd half.

#15 – 3-3-1 Packers
The Packers keep coming up short despite QB Aaron Rodger’s heroics.

#16 – 4-3 Bears
The Bears travel to Buffalo with a chance to stay atop the competitive NFC North.

#17 – 3-4 Lions
Lions face two North road games with Vikings and Bears that will determine if they are contenders or pretenders.

#18 – 4-4 Dolphins
Dolphins host the Jets in almost a must win contest to stay in playoff hunt.

#19 – 3-4 Falcons
Falcons coming off their bye with two road games in Washington and Cleveland on the schedule.

#20 – 3-4 Cowboys
The Cowboys are coming off their bye and must get to .500 to get into NFC playoff contention.

#21 – 3-4 Titans
The Titans are rested for their trip to Big D which may determine the fate of both clubs.

#22 – 3-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lost again this time to the Eagles. Get their bye week to regroup for stretch run.

#23- 3-5 Broncos
Broncos are coming up short in big spots. Host the hot Texans in a must win situation to stay alive in AFC playoffs.

#24 – 3-4 Bucs
Bucs go back to vet QB Fitzpatrick after an extended horrible streak by QB Jameis Winston.

#25 – 2-5-1 Browns
Browns finally fired HC Hue Jackson after a 3-37-1 stretch, one of the worst in NFL history.

#26 – 3-5 Jets
Jets’ travel to Miami after a weak performance in Chicago.

#27 – 3-5 Colts
Colts beat the Raiders behind another strong Andrew Luck performance.

#28 – 2-6 Bills
Bills change to backup QB Nate Peterman while hoping for rookie QB Josh Allen’s return.

#29 – 2-6 Cardinals
Cardinals edged out a victory over the 49ers. Get their bye this week.

#30 – 1-7 Giants
The Giants have just begun a complete rebuild. Roster lacks talent and depth after years of poor draft classes by ex GM Jerry Reese.

#31 – 1-7 49ers
The 49ers are favorite in this ‘Bay of Pigs’ classic.

#32 – 1-7 Raiders
Da Raiders were toasted by the Colts in their last embarrassment.

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 20 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

NFL Power Poll – Week 8

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Host Packers in NFC Matchup
Brees leads the Saints’ to Win over the Ravens

Teams of the Week – Saints over Ravens, 24-23
Upset of the Week – Texans over Jaguars, 20-7

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Cam Newton – Panthers     
Defense – DT Aaron Donald – Rams

Rookies of Week
RB Kerryon Johnson – Lions
DT Da’Ron Payne – Redskins

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Games of Week #7 – New Orleans Saints (5-1) at Minnesota Vikings (4-2-1)
Saints continue to face tough road matchups

Draft Insiders’ NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -7-0 Rams
Rams’ highly rated defense preps for Aaron Rodgers coming to town.

#2 – 6-1 Chiefs
Chiefs are probably most exciting club in the league, but better find a defense to beat playoff clubs.

#3 – 5-1 Saints
Saints’ won a tough road test in Baltimore, travel to Minnesota this week.

#4 – 5-2 Patriots
Pats just know how to win with the game on the line behind Tom Terrific.

#5 – 5-2 Chargers
Chargers get their bye week after winning in London vs the Titans.

#6 – 4-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ rested for hosting the Browns in a tough AFC North contest.

#7 – 4-2-1 Vikings
Vikings are in the spotlight Sunday night hosting the talented Saints.

#8 – 4-2 Panthers
Panthers are coming off a victory in Philly. Host Ravens Sunday.

#9 – 4-3 Ravens
Ravens continue a difficult stretch in schedule with trip to Carolina.

#10 – 4-3 Bengals
Bengals’ failed to show up in Kansas City. Host the Bucs this week.

#11 – 3-2-1 Packers
The Packers are rested for feature game vs the Rams.

#12- 3-4 Eagles
Eagles travel to London for Jaguar matchup in hopes of getting back to .500.

#13 – 4-3 Texans
Texans’ beat the Jaguars and look to step up in AFC South.

#14 – 3-3 Bears
The Bears host the Jets and look to keep pace in the balanced NFC North.

#15 – 3-3 Lions
Lions offense is hitting stride at midseason. Host the Seahawks in key contest.

#16 – 4-2 Redskins
The Redskins hoping to extend winning streak with trip to the Giants Sunday.

#17 – 3-3 Seahawks
Seahawks travel to Detroit for an interesting NFC matchup with longterm playoff ramifications.

#17 – 4-3 Dolphins
Dolphins defense was smoked by the Lions. Face the rising Texans Thursday night.

#18 – 3-4 Jaguars
Jaguars’ offense continues to struggle and it is not all Blake Bortles fault.

#19 – 3-4 Falcons
Falcons offense will have to carry this club with battered D working with limited starters.

#21 – 3-4 Cowboys
The Cowboys lost a close one to the Redskins. Adding wideout Amani Cooper is an improvement during bye week.

#22 – 3-4 Titans
The Titans get their bye week to prepare for 2nd half drive.

#23- 3-4 Broncos
Broncos face a key West matchup with tough road game in Kansas City.

#24 – 3-3 Bucs
Bucs win in OT vs the Browns. Go to Cinny in a key matchup to get to contension.

#25 – 2-4-1 Browns
Browns lost another road game in their 4th overtime game this season.

#26 – 3-4 Jets
Jets’ travel to Chitown in a winnable matchup for any longshot playoff hopes.

#27 – 2-5 Colts
Colts beat the Bills behind Andrew Luck’s 4 TD passes. Travel to Oakland hoping to extend winning streak.

#28 – 2-5 Bills
Bills struggling with backup QB Derek Anderson. Rookie QB Josh Allen is still injured.

#29 – 1-6 Giants
The Giants failed again in big spot vs Falcons. Host the East leading Redskins. Trading veterans this week.

#30 – 1-6 Cardinals
Cardinals host the 49ers in a game that should have a major bearing on the early NFL Draft 2019 selections.

#31 – 1-6 49ers
The 49ers are going through growing pains this season.

#32 – 1-6 Raiders
Da Raiders are rested for visit from the Colts in an equal matchup.

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 20 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

   NFL Power Poll – Week 7

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

Draft Insiders’ NFL Power Poll –
Rams Stand Alone as NFL’s Unbeaten Team
Patriots’ QB Tom Brady Outduels Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes In Sunday Night Classic

Team of the Week – Patriots over Chiefs 43-40
Upset of the Week – Cowboys over Jaguars 40-7

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Tom Brady – Patriots     
  Defense – LB Za’Darious Smith – Ravens

Rookies of Week
RB Saquon Barkley – Giants
LB Bradley Chubb – Broncos

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Go to   www.RedCross.org  to donate money or time
DraftInsiders.com supports all Emergency Relief efforts worldwide along with Breast Cancer for over 25 years.

Games of Week #7 – New Orleans Saints (4-1) at Baltimore Ravens (4-2)
Saints face acid test with trip to play the tough Ravens

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -6-0 Rams
Rams’ are the only undefeated club in the league.

#2 – 5-1 Chiefs
Chiefs lost a heartbreaker to the Patriots despite Patrick Mahome’s dramatics.

#3 – 4-1 Saints
Saints’ are rested for tough road test in Baltimore.

#4 – 4-2 Patriots
Pats may be the best with the game on the line with Tom Terrific.

#5 – 4-2 Ravens
Ravens beat up the tough Titans on the road. Wait for Saints to challenge their physical D.

#6 – 4-2 Chargers
Chargers travel to London to face the battered Titans.

#7 – 3-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ owned the Bengals for their eighth straight victory over their AFC North rival.

#8- 3-3 Eagles
Eagles pounded the Giants. Host the Panthers this Sunday.

#9 – 4-2 Bengals
Bengals’ go to Kansas City after tough loss to the Steelers.

#10 – 3-2-1 Vikings
Vikings hoping to keep winning streak alive with trip east to face the Jets.

#11 – 3-3 Jaguars
Jaguars’ offense struggling without Fournette. Face hungry Texans club at home in key South matchup.

#12 – 3-2 Panthers
Panthers travel to Philly in another important NFC matchup.

#12 – 3-2 Bears
The Bears lost to Dolphins in a tough overtime game. Host the Patriots in difficult matchup.

#14 – 4-2 Dolphins
Dolphins are on a three game winning streak with the rested Lions coming to town.

#15 – 3-2-1 Packers
The Packers beat the 49ers Monday night on Aaron Rodgers late game dramatics. Get bye this week.

#16 – 3-3 Texans
Texans’ edged the Bills. Travel to Jacksonville for a critical midseason AFC South matchup for division leadership.

#17 – 3-3 Seahawks
Seahawks punched the Raiders in London. Bye week to regroup for 2^nd half playoff push.

#18 – 3-3 Cowboys
The Cowboys jumped the Jaguars in their best effort of the season. Face archrival Skins in key NFC East contest.

#19 – 3-3 Titans
The Titans were taken to the woodshed by the Ravens. Go to London for Charger matchup.

#20 – 3-2 Redskins
The Redskins have been inconsistent, but beat the Panthers. Cowboys come to town this week in an important East matchup.

#21- 2-4 Broncos
Broncos lost a close one to the Rams. Need a victory in the desert vs the Cards to stay in the playoff chase.

#22 – 2-3-1 Browns
Browns were outclassed by the Chargers. Travel to Tampa in a winnable matchup.

#23 – 3-3 Jets
Jets’ riding the hot hand of rookie QB Sam Darnold. Face the highly regarded Vikings at home in hopes to get into the playoff conversation.

#24 – 2-4 Falcons
Falcons edged the Bucs last week. Get the woeful Giants at home Monday night.

#25 – 2-3 Lions
Lions rested for their trip to Miami to get to the .500 mark. Look to get into playoff race in the balanced NFC North.

#26 – 2-3 Bucs
Bucs fire DC Mike Smith. Browns come in for a key matchup to get to .500.

#27 – 2-4 Bills
Bills lose to Houston. Go with backup QB Derek Anderson with rookie Josh Allen injured.

#28 – 1-5 Colts
Colts score points, but have one of the worst defenses in the league. Host the Bills in a basement bowl.

#29 – 1-5 Giants
The pathetic Giants were toasted by the Eagles. Get more national exposure with Monday night road game in Atlanta.

30 – 1-5 Cardinals
Cardinals will go through their baptism season with rookie QB Josh Rosen in hopes to build a new foundation.

#31 – 1-5 49ers
Like we said in August – ‘The 49ers are the most overrated team in the league.’

#32 – 1-5 Raiders
Da Raiders certainly need some ‘Gruden Grinders.’

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 20 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

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – RB Saquon Barkley – Giants

Frank Coyle

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

Week 6 showcased the top rookie running back Saquon Barkley of the Giants. He has started since day one and been one of the few bright spots during the GMen’s dismal 1-5 season.

He brings the most completed back to the game in years and new energy and life to a lackluster offense. Despite a weak offensive line, Barkley has rushed for 428 yards for a 5.2 yard average along with 40 receptions for 373 yards and 6 TDs. He has been dramatic and impressive despite special attention on virtually every play. His numbers are on pace for both a 1000 yard rushing and receiving performance which would be a first in NFL annals.

He has uncanny instincts with quick decision making and footwork that allows him to move and create situations and extend plays. He displayed rare composure in a pressure packed situation Thursday night vs the Eagles where he displayed big play ability as both a runner and receiver.
He was the #1 running back selected from a very deep class and the #2 overall choice behind only QB Baker Mayfield. He gives Giant fans hope during a frustrating period where the changing roster is in

We compared him to LaDainian Tomlinson in talent, mobility and leadership which emerged dramatically over his Penn St career and postseason prior to the NFL Draft 2018.
 
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2018 Running Backs Class – Grade: A
      Positional Overview:
 This year’s running back position is an excellent group with a super blue-chip junior in Saquon Barkley at the top of the class. Barkley is a premier NFL feature back who can be an elite pro player early in his career. We rank him higher than Zeke Elliott or Leonard Fournette both of whom were difference makers from their first season.

Running Backs
1 Saquon Barkley #26 – Penn St          6-0       230 – Sp. 4.45              
        Player Comparison: LaDainian Tomlinson                  Rating 95       
Dynamic powerful junior is the most physically gifted back to arrive in the NFL since Adrian Peterson. Strong compact frame with very quick feet and the explosive burst to go the distance from anywhere on the field. The complete package to become a top NFL feature back with rare skills to be an instant impact three down player as a rookie. Difference maker the past two seasons at Penn St. and produced impressive numbers despite weekly special attention in the Big Ten. Earned first team Big Ten his final two seasons. Great team leader with smarts, instincts and leadership. Possesses an ideal NFL body with a well-developed muscular frame with the natural ability to drop his pads and square up when attacking the line. Shows great lateral quickness with the burst to get outside consistently and go the distance. Displays the initial burst to hit an opening with the cutting skills of a smaller back and the power to break and bounce off tacklers. Very good lower body strength (squats 600 lbs.+) to run through tacklers and carry a big load weekly. As a runner, shows natural vision and balance with the power and toughness to consistently get the most of each attempt. Reads his initial blocks very well with a feel for finding an opening with the speed to hit a hole and run away from defenders. Patient runner allows play to unfold with the burst to create. Faced eight in a box often and put up huge numbers vs Big Ten talent in key games with conference and national impact. Shows the power to run through creases with rare lateral quickness and long speed to stick-and-go out of his cuts. Displays the patience to follow blockers and the ability to shift his weight very well and string multiple moves together. Soft hands as a receiver out of the backfield and capable of a big play in space where his speed and power are a dangerous combination. Strong hands to protect the ball well. Needs work on his blocking especially in blitz situations. Shows the toughness and athleticism to face up with backers, but needs the practice time to progress in that key area. Good route running and defense recognition. Elite combination of speed and power to provide early impact as a pro feature runner. Very strong lower body with good straight arm and can sink his hips and explode to come downhill. Extremely tough to tackle inline or in space. Sets up cut-back lanes exceptionally well with the body lean to get much yardage after contact.

The Numbers:  As a junior, he started 13 games and rushed for 1271 yards on 217 carries for a 5.9 average and 18 TDs. He added 54 receptions for 632 yards and 3 TDs. For the 2016 season, he started 14 games and rushed for 1496 yards on 272 attempts for 5.5 yard average and 18 TDs. He added 28 receptions for 402 yards and 4 TDs. As a freshman in 2015, he rushed for 1076 yards on 182 carries for a 5.9 average and 7 TDs and added 20 receptions for 161 yards and 1 TD. Over his career, he rushed for 3843 yards on 671 attempts for a fine 5.7 average and 43 TDs plus totaled 102 receptions for 1195 yards and 8 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 6’ and 233 lbs. and ran a 4.40 time. He did 29 reps in the lifting with a 41” VL and a 4.24 shuttle. In the mold of premier breakaway power backs like LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson and Zeke Elliott in body type and style, he is similar yet superior to Todd Gurley with the speed and power to be the best in the game. Major early impact weapon.

The Skinny:  Fast physical downhill thumper with the long speed to be a game breaker. Rookie impact feature back who becomes his own blocker. Rookie three down starter with developed receiving skills. As a blocker, he shows quick reactions and toughness to face up to use his strong frame and agility, though needs to prove he can square off with blitz defenders. Natural runner and early difference maker. Faced NFL caliber defenders weekly and carried a full load with great production despite special attention. Very well rounded back and excellent skill set to be an impact player. Super blue-chip athlete and my #1 prospect since September 2017 with no need to change that grade. Top 2 prospect with elite talent to be among the league’s best runners immediately.
           Draft Projection: 1st Round – Top 2