Should addressing our CB position be Priority #1?

[hawaiiansteel]

The Steelers still need to address their defensive secondary, particularly the CB position. Finding William Gay's replacement should be our priority #1. Gay was not that bad as a nickle or dime back, he just needs to return to that role instead of starting opposite Ike Taylor where he is very easy for opposing offenses to find.

You may argue that we need to give our young CBs like Joe Burnett and Keenan Lewis more of a chance, but if they couldn't even replace Gay last year when it was so obvious to everyone that Gay needed replacing, then I'm strongly worried about their ability to be the answer.

Which of the following do you think we should pick to be our long-term answer at CB?


Round 1 -

a) Earl Thomas (he could take Ryan Mundy's roster spot on game days even if he doesn't win the starting CB job right away, Tomlin loves that position versatility)

b) Joe Haden (might drop to us if he doesn't run faster on his Pro Day than he did at the Combine)

c) Kyle Wilson (try to trade down a few spots first and pick up more ammunition to possibly move up in a future round with)


Round 2 -

whoever the Steelers like from the following (there is a lot of value here in this round if the Steelers address another position in Round 1):

CBs Patrick Robinson, Devin McCourty, Kareem Jackson, Chris Cook, Dominique Franks, Brandon Ghee, Perrish Cox


Round 3 -

again, whichever CB the Steelers brass likes best from who is still available:

Amari Spievey, Jerome Murphy, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, Donovan Warren, Javier Arenas (great return specialist)

[fezziwig]

Our biggest need for this team is a corner and I want the rookie corner if we draft one to start day one.

Our offense has all the weapons except the fact we have an O cord that can't handle the horsepower. More player personale will not make Arians smarter.

Our defense is good to excellent except for corners. We can live with Ike but Gay needs replaced.

[BURGH86STEEL]

I think they will draft a CB. They may not be able to draft the CB they desire.

[RuthlessBurgher]

I think we draft a corner on either Thursday or Friday. On your list of 15 possibilities, I'd imagine one of them will be a Steeler.

[Shawn]

We need to address DB in the first two rounds of this draft. While we don't have to...I would like to add some serious talent in our secondary. In the first round...Haden or Thomas...in the second I'm not sure if Wilson will be there in the second but a move up to grab him would be nice. If not McCourty could be there and he is very good even though he isn't big. I like the midgets of this secondary class. Thomas and McCourty are very strong.

[Steel Life]

I'm okay with Thomas, but I don't see him being the pick after re-signing Clark. And I'd love to have McCourty but I don't think he'll last to our pick in the second. I'm comfortable with giving the young kids a chance to develop as Burnett could turn into something special given time & I really like Myron Lewis from Vanderbilt as FS/CB prospect.

[Shawn]

I'm okay with Thomas, but I don't see him being the pick after re-signing Clark. And I'd love to have McCourty but I don't think he'll last to our pick in the second. I'm comfortable with giving the young kids a chance to develop as Burnett could turn into something special given time & I really like Myron Lewis from Vanderbilt as FS/CB prospect.

Most NFL teams see him playing CB.

[RuthlessBurgher]

We need to address DB in the first two rounds of this draft. While we don't have to...I would like to add some serious talent in our secondary. In the first round...Haden or Thomas...in the second I'm not sure if Wilson will be there in the second but a move up to grab him would be nice. If not McCourty could be there and he is very good even though he isn't big. I like the midgets of this secondary class. Thomas and McCourty are very strong.

I'm projecting both Wilson and McCourty to come off the board in round one (Wilson to Baltimore and McCourty to Minnesota).

[hawaiiansteel]

We need to address DB in the first two rounds of this draft. While we don't have to...I would like to add some serious talent in our secondary. In the first round...Haden or Thomas...in the second I'm not sure if Wilson will be there in the second but a move up to grab him would be nice. If not McCourty could be there and he is very good even though he isn't big. I like the midgets of this secondary class. Thomas and McCourty are very strong.


I'm projecting both Wilson and McCourty to come off the board in round one (Wilson to Baltimore and McCourty to Minnesota).



I wouldn't mind trading down a few slots and picking Kyle Wilson, he may be the best cover corner in the draft. I would HATE seeing him go to Baltimore!

if not, my preference would be Kareem Jackson or Chris Cook in Round 2.

[NJ-STEELER]

if its as deep a draft for corners, i wouldn't mind seeing them draft 2 in the first 4 rounds. maybe even 2 in the first 3 if we can trade later picks to get additional picks in the 3rd

[papillon]

I'm okay with Thomas, but I don't see him being the pick after re-signing Clark. And I'd love to have McCourty but I don't think he'll last to our pick in the second. I'm comfortable with giving the young kids a chance to develop as Burnett could turn into something special given time & I really like Myron Lewis from Vanderbilt as FS/CB prospect.

I actually see the opposite view after signing Clark. Clark is the veteran that gives us a chance to win while Troy's future partner is drafted. And, if that draft pick happens to be able to play SS in case Troy re-injures or gets dinged again all the better. It will be hard to watch the Steeler defense try to cover up Tyrone Carter for another year. Plus,if, in a pinch the draft pick can play corner as an emergency CB then even better. I think you have a hard time passing on Thomas.

Pappy

[Steel Life]

It's good point Pap, but remember that Carter is a UFA right now & I imagine Will Allen's signing spelled the end of Carter's tenure here. And I like the kid, & McCourty too, but I just see Dan Williams as the better value at 18 because regardless of Casey's signing, our starters are still old.

[flippy]

I think we're set up to take BPA for the first couple of rounds. CB or not.

Unless you can get a Revis type of corner or Troy like safety, I'd prefer we reload the defensive front 7. You could possibly do more next year with a Brandon Graham as a situational pass rusher or a Jared Odrick in a DE rotation that ultimately takes pressure off our CBs.

And McClain/Weatherspoon are so darn tempting if they're there.

5 of 7 guys in our D front are 30+.

Interesting quote I just saw from Colbert which makes me think he's not too concerned about the DBs - "If you have a great pass rush, you might be able to get by with a lesser defensive backfield."
—Kevin Colbert, director of football operations.

Defense is about getting to the QB. And very few CBs are truly great in the league.

I've also liked the glimpses I've seen thus far in Burnette. Not sure yet on Lewis, but there's time for both of these guys to develop.

[WaGgin74]

Yes indeed, Lewis is an unknown or question mark, Burnett alright, Ike can't catch a cold and Gay you already know. Baltimore added Boldin and Cincy added Bryant, I think we need somebdy fire back there like Wilson or Thomas.

[papillon]

It's good point Pap, but remember that Carter is a UFA right now & I imagine Will Allen's signing spelled the end of Carter's tenure here. And I like the kid, & McCourty too, but I just see Dan Williams as the better value at 18 because regardless of Casey's signing, our starters are still old.

I wouldn't have a problem with a NT at 1.18, but from what I hear there are good NTs that can contribute a little and watch for the most part in rounds 2-7. I don't follow college football even remotely close enough to know the players. I only know what I hear and everything I've heard about Thomas has been positive, including his attitude and character.

Pappy

[hawaiiansteel]

We need to address DB in the first two rounds of this draft. While we don't have to...I would like to add some serious talent in our secondary. In the first round...Haden or Thomas...in the second I'm not sure if Wilson will be there in the second but a move up to grab him would be nice. If not McCourty could be there and he is very good even though he isn't big. I like the midgets of this secondary class. Thomas and McCourty are very strong.

I'm projecting both Wilson and McCourty to come off the board in round one (Wilson to Baltimore and McCourty to Minnesota).


here is what the Great Blue North Report has to say in their latest draft update about Kyle Wilson and Devin McCourty -


"For a long time, the 2010 draft looked like it could be a CB wasteland after Joe Haden of Florida, however, both CB Kyle Wilson of Boise State and CB Devin McCourty have had great pre-draft workouts. Wilson, in particular, had a super Senior Bowl and followed it up with a solid combine and could ultimately get some top 20 consideration this April. For his part, McCourty looks like a solid late first rounder, especially given the importance of the position on draft day."

[Oviedo]

if its as deep a draft for corners, i wouldn't mind seeing them draft 2 in the first 4 rounds. maybe even 2 in the first 3 if we can trade later picks to get additional picks in the 3rd

We drafted two in the first 5 rounds last year. I agree that we need to add a CB and probably in Round 2 or 3, but I think you will see a big step up in performance from Lewis and Burnett this year.

I don't have a lot of faith for any rookie getting on the field with LeBeau's defense so I think we have to hope to get more from Lewis and Burnett than a rookie.

[Oviedo]

I think we're set up to take BPA for the first couple of rounds. CB or not.

Unless you can get a Revis type of corner or Troy like safety, I'd prefer we reload the defensive front 7. You could possibly do more next year with a Brandon Graham as a situational pass rusher or a Jared Odrick in a DE rotation that ultimately takes pressure off our CBs.

And McClain/Weatherspoon are so darn tempting if they're there.

5 of 7 guys in our D front are 30+.

Interesting quote I just saw from Colbert which makes me think he's not too concerned about the DBs - "If you have a great pass rush, you might be able to get by with a lesser defensive backfield."
—Kevin Colbert, director of football operations.

Defense is about getting to the QB. And very few CBs are truly great in the league.

I've also liked the glimpses I've seen thus far in Burnette. Not sure yet on Lewis, but there's time for both of these guys to develop.

Flippy...I think you are looking and you are seeing. You hit the nail right on the head. Look at who we did not bring back or add a free agent...DL (Kirschke and Esason) and RB (Parker). Look at who we did bring back and added...DB (Clark and Allen) and LB (Foote) and WR (ARE and Battle).

If you read between the lines I think if we are targeting positions in Round 1 they are DL and RB; maybe OL but I doubt it. To me that means they like Dan Williams, Jared Odrick or Brian Price on the DL and CJ Spiller or Ryan Matthews at RB. All have legit Round 1 grades.

I just don't see them using the Round 1 pick on a position they already added reinforcement to via free agency. But I don't do this for a living.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

I think many teams are looking at Thomas as a CB. Your fall back will be S. Thomas showed great change of direction and very fluid coming out of his back pedal. The fear on Thomas is he will be a gamebreaker at S but for how long. He could have a career similiar to Bob Sanders. He has a big block motor in a compact car. He has the athleticism to possibly make the transition to CB. With his S skills, he would be a perfect Steelers CB....That could catch. A possible shut down guy with great run support skills. Putting him outside the hashes could pro-long his NFL career. I am beginning to believe this is the Steeler's thoughts and he could be on their Radar.

[steelblood]

The Steelers still need to address their defensive secondary, particularly the CB position. Finding William Gay's replacement should be our priority #1. Gay was not that bad as a nickle or dime back, he just needs to return to that role instead of starting opposite Ike Taylor where he is very easy for opposing offenses to find.

You may argue that we need to give our young CBs like Joe Burnett and Keenan Lewis more of a chance, but if they couldn't even replace Gay last year when it was so obvious to everyone that Gay needed replacing, then I'm strongly worried about their ability to be the answer.

Which of the following do you think we should pick to be our long-term answer at CB?


Round 1 -

a) Earl Thomas (he could take Ryan Mundy's roster spot on game days even if he doesn't win the starting CB job right away, Tomlin loves that position versatility)

b) Joe Haden (might drop to us if he doesn't run faster on his Pro Day than he did at the Combine)

c) Kyle Wilson (try to trade down a few spots first and pick up more ammunition to possibly move up in a future round with)


Round 2 -

whoever the Steelers like from the following (there is a lot of value here in this round if the Steelers address another position in Round 1):

CBs Patrick Robinson, Devin McCourty, Kareem Jackson, Chris Cook, Dominique Franks, Brandon Ghee, Perrish Cox


Round 3 -

again, whichever CB the Steelers brass likes best from who is still available:

Amari Spievey, Jerome Murphy, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, Donovan Warren, Javier Arenas (great return specialist)

Devin McCourty is a Steelers type. I don't believe he'd be the best cover corner, but he'd immediately help on special teams (coverage and return units) where he was very effective in college.

Probably Kyle Wilson and Dominique Franks are the best cover corners after Haden (who will be gone I believe).

Cox is very talented and could be great. But, he is not going to be on the STeelers' draft board because of his off the field issues.

I do like Ansah, but I haven't seen him play and he likely would need a year of development before he could start.

I think Kareem Jackson and Murphy are overrated.

[pfelix73]

Someone of Troy's caliber could play immediately in this defense. Especially competing against Gay.


Oh- and the answer this thread's ? is YES!!!!
:tt1

[Oviedo]

Someone of Troy's caliber could play immediately in this defense. Especially competing against Gay.


Oh- and the answer this thread's ? is YES!!!!
:tt1

Troy couldn't start and he wasn't cpompeting against All Pros as a rookie.

This is the season of euphoria where every college player in the draft and especially on individual mock drafts is better than a player we have now. The reality is that every year rookies rarely get on the field especially in our defense.

[Dee Dub]

Here a better question…

What is the drop off from the so called first round corners to the second round corners in this drafts? Is it so significant that you must use the 18th pick on one? Or is it really not all that big a difference where you can still get a quality one on round 2 or three?

I think somewhere in there…you have the answer to your post. :wink:

[pfelix73]

True- but some do. Troy played his rookie year- forget how much, but he was playing.

You want a RB I want a CB. We'll see who's right /wrong. Could be both of us, but there's no way I would draft another RB in the 1st round.

:tt2

[RuthlessBurgher]

Here a better question…

What is the drop off from the so called first round corners to the second round corners in this drafts? Is it so significant that you must use the 18th pick on one? Or is it really not all that big a difference where you can still get a quality one on round 2 or three?

I think somewhere in there…you have the answer to your post. :wink:

If Haden runs another poor 40 at his Pro Day tomorrow, which allows him to drop to #18, then he's the guy. If not, there is better value in waiting until round 2 for the likes of Kareem Jackson or Brandon Ghee than reaching for a Kyle Wilson or Devin McCourty at #18.

[NJ-STEELER]

if its as deep a draft for corners, i wouldn't mind seeing them draft 2 in the first 4 rounds. maybe even 2 in the first 3 if we can trade later picks to get additional picks in the 3rd

We drafted two in the first 5 rounds last year. I agree that we need to add a CB and probably in Round 2 or 3, but I think you will see a big step up in performance from Lewis and Burnett this year.

I don't have a lot of faith for any rookie getting on the field with LeBeau's defense so I think we have to hope to get more from Lewis and Burnett than a rookie.

i'm not putting much faith in guys that were taken where hank poteat and will gay were drafted.

i'm looking for a vast improvement over those type of guys. and K lew was the last pick of the 3rd rd.

besides, we've saw some rumors about K lew going to safety. if thats true, we're left with two 5th rounders competing for the corner opposite ike... who is another defensive starter closing in on 30, at a position where speed is instumental.

the way some teams are throwing the ball now, you're goona need more then 2 CBs most of the game, thats why i woulnd't mind 2 in the top 3 rounds

[hawaiiansteel]

Peak performers among DBs: Cream of the NFL draft crop

By Frank Cooney, Special to USA TODAY
March 18, 2010


Help is on the way for NFL teams looking for improved air traffic control in a league where intricate passing attacks are flourishing.

According to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com, 16 defensive backs could go in the first two rounds of the draft. With a proliferation of spread offenses forcing safeties to become better man-to-man pass defenders, the abilities of Tennessee's Eric Berry are so coveted that his name could be among the first five called April 22.

A closer look at this year's top defensive back prospects, listed with their school, height, weight and projected round of selection (*denotes underclassman):



CORNERBACKS


1. *Joe Haden

Florida, 5-11, 193, 1: Haden, the first true freshman cornerback to start at Florida, appears to be the complete package. He was smooth and consistent in coverage, aggressive against the run and possessed great ball reaction with the ability to go all the way on an interception or return. At a New Jersey combine for preps in 2007, he was clocked at 4.34 seconds over 40 yards and added a vertical jump of 37 inches. At the scouting combine, his 40-yard time was in the high 4.5-second range, which shocked some scouts. His father attributed the slow time to a stiff back, and Haden was scheduled to run again at Florida's pro day this month.

2. *Earl Thomas

Texas, 5-10, 208, 1: He entered the draft as a redshirt sophomore after setting a school record with eight interceptions last season while playing safety. He then bulked up from his college weight of 195 pounds to 208 at the combine, possibly in response to concerns voiced by scouts about his ability to hold up at the next level, where he might project better as a cornerback. "The extra weight helps if I'm going to be in the box banging heads out there," Thomas says of the prospect of remaining at safety. He was a ballhawking center fielder, leading the nation with 24 passes broken up last year and collecting 143 tackles since 2008. He has the speed, instincts and attitude to play safety, but also owns the hips, man-to-man skills and ability to high-point balls in flight that could make him a formidable corner. But his college career wasn't perfect. He was the victim when Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree made the game-winning catch against Texas in 2008, and he missed several tackles in the BCS title game loss to Alabama.

3. Kyle Wilson

Boise State, 5-10, 194, 1-2: He was consistent enough to earn all-conference or All-America awards in all four seasons, impressing as a defensive back and a punt returner. He didn't run at the combine because of a pulled hamstring but showed impressive strength, bench-pressing 225 pounds 25 times. He made a positive impression at the Senior Bowl by invigorating workouts with trash talk, then backing it up by disrupting passes and wide receivers. He is extremely competitive, tough and has great ball reaction. Led his Piscataway, N.J., high school team to three state championships, including two undefeated seasons (2002, '04).

4. Devin McCourty

Rutgers, 5-11, 193, 1-2: Devin — an identical twin to Jason McCourty, a sixth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans last year — has the athletic ability to be an excellent cornerback but needs to focus on receivers as acutely as he did his book work in college. McCourty, winner of several academic honors, had a 40-yard time of 4.41 at the combine, but that speed wasn't obvious in many game situations. He was impressive on passes in front of him, but too often he allowed receivers to get deep. Last season he had 80 tackles, 10 pass breakups and an interception in 13 starts. He also was an outstanding special-teams player, blocking three kicks (he has seven in his career) and returning a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown.

5. *Kareem Jackson

Alabama, 5-11, 196, 1-2: Jackson, who probably could have benefited from another year in college to improve his footwork, is a hard worker in the film room and shows signs of understanding the nuances of coverage. He is more impressive in bump-and-run coverage in the first few yards than he is downfield. Jackson is an instinctive, aggressive, coverage corner who started all but one of his 41 college games. His career statistics include 159 tackles, five interceptions (164 return yards) and two blocked kicks.

6. *Dominique Franks

Oklahoma, 5-11, 194, 2: His ability to read and react to plays in front of him makes Franks a candidate for a team seeking a good zone or off-man coverage corner. He has long arms and strong hands that help when he closes on plays, but overall he is not a physical player. When Franks declared for the draft as an underclassman, he stated that he is able to "shut down one side of the field," which says more for his confidence than the reality of his ability. Last season, he had 47 tackles and two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown. He flashes athleticism as a returner but seems to lack vision in finding the best place to run.

7. Patrick Robinson

Florida State, 5-11, 190, 2: He is a daring defender who plays with more confidence than consistency and will need to play within his abilities to be a consistent pro. Robinson showed his best overall play last season with career bests in tackles (47) and passes broken up (11) and was impressive during Senior Bowl workouts. He has long teased pro scouts with his ability to cover receivers and react to the ball, which first became obvious in 2007 when he had six interceptions. Robinson was suspended for taking part in the infamous Florida State academic scandal and missed the Music City Bowl and the first three games of the 2008 season.

8. Brandon Ghee

Wake Forest, 6-0, 192, 2: Ghee put on a show at the combine with a 40-yard time of 4.40 seconds and a vertical jump of 37 inches. But in games Ghee seemed to be most impressive against big receivers while struggling against smaller, quicker ones. He appeared to be more focused on making the wow hit than grabbing the interception. His production doesn't seem to match his physical ability, as evidenced by having no interceptions last season. He missed 2007 on academic suspension, was out of spring practices a year ago with a sprained knee and missed two games with a sprained ankle.

9. Chris Cook

Virginia, 6-2, 212, 2-3: Injuries and academic problems limited his production in college. But Cook is expected by many scouts to showcase his considerable athletic ability in the NFL, where he might be moved to safety. He validated his speed and explosion at the combine with a 40-yard time of 4.44 and a vertical jump of 37 inches. But considering his size, he was less than stellar on the bench press, where he hoisted 225 pounds seven times. Cook lost most of the 2005 year with a broken leg, three games in 2007 with a sprained knee and was suspended for the 2008 season for academic reasons. He has great size, excellent speed and looked good as a safety in Senior Bowl practices before being sidelined with a groin injury.

10. Akwasi Owusu-Ansah

Indiana (Pa.), 6-0, 207, 2-3: Born in Ghana, his first name means "Born on Sunday," and pro scouts are curious about how well he might play on Sundays. Owusu-Ansah displayed great ability as a returner, where he had nine career touchdowns — four on punts, three on kickoffs and one each off an interception and a fumble. But he injured his shoulder in November and was unable to play against top competition in postseason all-star games, so questions remain about how well he projects for the NFL. At the combine, he was disappointingly slow (40 yards in 4.58 seconds) and struggled in agility drills. But offseason shoulder surgery might have impacted his workout.

11. Jerome Murphy

South Florida, 6-0, 196, 3: Despite his lanky appearance, Murphy is one of the biggest hitters in this year's cornerback class. He is especially willing and impressive in run support. Last season, he had a career-high 77 tackles along with a team-leading four interceptions and seven pass breakups. He had 67 tackles and a pair of pickoffs in 2008. Although he might fit the need for the bigger cornerbacks that NFL teams seek, it wouldn't be surprising to see Murphy moved to safety, where his abilities to hit and cover will be an asset against the league's pass-happy offenses.

12. Javier Arenas

Alabama, 5-9, 197, 3: Arenas, well-known as a return artist for his prolific displays in high school, gained considerable attention as a cornerback the last couple of years. But concerns about his size and durability were underlined when he measured at 5-85/8 at the combine and was unable to complete the 40-yard dash because of a pulled hamstring. He still could not run at Alabama's pro day in early March. For his career, Arenas averaged 24.1 yards a kickoff return and 14.2 yards a punt return. His seven punt returns for touchdowns are a Southeastern Conference record. He is a cousin of Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas.



SAFETIES

1. *Eric Berry

Tennessee, 6-0, 211, 1: This is one case where there was probably nothing to be gained in terms of his football career had Berry stayed in school for one more year. This intense player has displayed distinctive on-field abilities and might be the best athlete in the draft. He certainly gave credence to that perspective at the combine, where he ran 40 yards in 4.43 seconds, soared 43 inches in the vertical jump and had the second-most reps of any defensive back by benching 225 pounds 19 times. Berry, rated as the top cornerback in the country coming out of high school, found a home at safety in college. In 2008 he led the nation with 265 return yards on seven interceptions and became the first Volunteer voted a consensus first-team All-American since Peyton Manning in 1997.

2. Taylor Mays

Southern California, 6-3, 230, 1: Even in a supposedly controlled environment, Mays seems to create controversy and defy description. At the combine, there was agreement that he measured 6-3?, 230 pounds. But various stop watches had his 40-yard time somewhere between 4.24 (NFL Network) and 4.43 seconds (NFL.com). According to combine officials responsible for collating official times, Mays' sprints registered at 4.31 and 4.33 seconds. So let's agree that he has a freakish combination of size and speed. The real question is what Mays does with it. His penchant for intimidating and mugging players seems to override reacting to the ball. He was used as a center-field type safety because he is at his best when things are in front of him so he can use great closing speed to make a play. But he often took bad angles on deeper plays, resulting in him trailing when he should have been on top of the receiver. If he puts it together, Mays could be a difference-maker in the NFL. His father, Stafford Mays, was a defensive lineman in the NFL for nine seasons.

3. Nate Allen

South Florida, 6-1, 207, 2: This former high school quarterbacking sensation took his athletic ability and leadership to the other side of the ball in college. At South Florida, Allen was respected as a team leader and was responsible for setting the defense on each play. He is deceptive in that he seems to play faster than he runs and is bigger than he measures. That means he has excellent instincts, technique and focus. But his man-to-man coverage ability might be good enough only to take on tight ends and backs in the NFL as he might be overmatched if singled up on a wide receiver. Scouts are looking forward to his March 30 pro day because Allen was unable to run at the combine because of a pulled thigh muscle.

4. *Chad Jones

LSU, 6-2, 221, 2: Though he's projected as a strong safety, that might be a bit of a misnomer for Jones, who managed nine bench-press repetitions of 225 pounds at the scouting combine. Jones rejected a large signing bonus from the Houston Astros, opting to play baseball and football for the Tigers. As a sophomore, he moved from nickel cornerback to starting free safety and collected 74 tackles, six pass breakups, three interceptions and had a 93-yard punt return for a touchdown. He is excellent in run support and closes well, but he must improve his backpedal. Jones posted a 2.70 ERA as a left-handed reliever in LSU's run to the 2009 College World Series championship.

5. *Reshad Jones

Georgia, 6-1, 214, 2-3: He is an interesting athlete who could have used another year in college to improve his abilities. But Jones showed considerable improvement last season, starting 13 games and collecting 73 tackles and a team-leading four interceptions. In Georgia's 44-20 Independence Bowl victory against Texas A&M, Jones had five tackles and a 59-yard interception return. His strength was evidenced by bench-pressing 225 pounds 24 times at the combine, and his explosion was quantified with 39½-inch vertical leap. He used that strength and explosion to make a lot of big hits in college. But to be consistent in the NFL he will need to wrap up better on his tackles.

6. *Morgan Burnett

Georgia Tech, 6-2, 209, 2-3: He had a coming-out party as a sophomore in 2008, when his seven interceptions tied for No. 1 in the nation, and he led his team with 93 tackles while earning All-America buzz. His production wasn't as impressive last season (85 tackles and four interceptions), but he decided it was time to turn pro anyway. He does just about everything well, with excellent awareness and reaction in man and zone coverage, and he can be intimidating as a hitter. His first career touchdown came against Matthew Stafford. Burnett was unable to run at the combine because of a pulled hamstring, but he passed the eyeball test for speed and strength in games.

Cooney is the publisher of NFLDraftScout.com, the scouting service of USA TODAY

[Oviedo]

Peak performers among DBs: Cream of the NFL draft crop

By Frank Cooney, Special to USA TODAY
March 18, 2010


Help is on the way for NFL teams looking for improved air traffic control in a league where intricate passing attacks are flourishing.

According to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com, 16 defensive backs could go in the first two rounds of the draft. With a proliferation of spread offenses forcing safeties to become better man-to-man pass defenders, the abilities of Tennessee's Eric Berry are so coveted that his name could be among the first five called April 22.

A closer look at this year's top defensive back prospects, listed with their school, height, weight and projected round of selection (*denotes underclassman):



CORNERBACKS


1. *Joe Haden

Florida, 5-11, 193, 1: Haden, the first true freshman cornerback to start at Florida, appears to be the complete package. He was smooth and consistent in coverage, aggressive against the run and possessed great ball reaction with the ability to go all the way on an interception or return. At a New Jersey combine for preps in 2007, he was clocked at 4.34 seconds over 40 yards and added a vertical jump of 37 inches. At the scouting combine, his 40-yard time was in the high 4.5-second range, which shocked some scouts. His father attributed the slow time to a stiff back, and Haden was scheduled to run again at Florida's pro day this month.

2. *Earl Thomas

Texas, 5-10, 208, 1: He entered the draft as a redshirt sophomore after setting a school record with eight interceptions last season while playing safety. He then bulked up from his college weight of 195 pounds to 208 at the combine, possibly in response to concerns voiced by scouts about his ability to hold up at the next level, where he might project better as a cornerback. "The extra weight helps if I'm going to be in the box banging heads out there," Thomas says of the prospect of remaining at safety. He was a ballhawking center fielder, leading the nation with 24 passes broken up last year and collecting 143 tackles since 2008. He has the speed, instincts and attitude to play safety, but also owns the hips, man-to-man skills and ability to high-point balls in flight that could make him a formidable corner. But his college career wasn't perfect. He was the victim when Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree made the game-winning catch against Texas in 2008, and he missed several tackles in the BCS title game loss to Alabama.

3. Kyle Wilson

Boise State, 5-10, 194, 1-2: He was consistent enough to earn all-conference or All-America awards in all four seasons, impressing as a defensive back and a punt returner. He didn't run at the combine because of a pulled hamstring but showed impressive strength, bench-pressing 225 pounds 25 times. He made a positive impression at the Senior Bowl by invigorating workouts with trash talk, then backing it up by disrupting passes and wide receivers. He is extremely competitive, tough and has great ball reaction. Led his Piscataway, N.J., high school team to three state championships, including two undefeated seasons (2002, '04).

4. Devin McCourty

Rutgers, 5-11, 193, 1-2: Devin — an identical twin to Jason McCourty, a sixth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans last year — has the athletic ability to be an excellent cornerback but needs to focus on receivers as acutely as he did his book work in college. McCourty, winner of several academic honors, had a 40-yard time of 4.41 at the combine, but that speed wasn't obvious in many game situations. He was impressive on passes in front of him, but too often he allowed receivers to get deep. Last season he had 80 tackles, 10 pass breakups and an interception in 13 starts. He also was an outstanding special-teams player, blocking three kicks (he has seven in his career) and returning a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown.

5. *Kareem Jackson

Alabama, 5-11, 196, 1-2: Jackson, who probably could have benefited from another year in college to improve his footwork, is a hard worker in the film room and shows signs of understanding the nuances of coverage. He is more impressive in bump-and-run coverage in the first few yards than he is downfield. Jackson is an instinctive, aggressive, coverage corner who started all but one of his 41 college games. His career statistics include 159 tackles, five interceptions (164 return yards) and two blocked kicks.

6. *Dominique Franks

Oklahoma, 5-11, 194, 2: His ability to read and react to plays in front of him makes Franks a candidate for a team seeking a good zone or off-man coverage corner. He has long arms and strong hands that help when he closes on plays, but overall he is not a physical player. When Franks declared for the draft as an underclassman, he stated that he is able to "shut down one side of the field," which says more for his confidence than the reality of his ability. Last season, he had 47 tackles and two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown. He flashes athleticism as a returner but seems to lack vision in finding the best place to run.

7. Patrick Robinson

Florida State, 5-11, 190, 2: He is a daring defender who plays with more confidence than consistency and will need to play within his abilities to be a consistent pro. Robinson showed his best overall play last season with career bests in tackles (47) and passes broken up (11) and was impressive during Senior Bowl workouts. He has long teased pro scouts with his ability to cover receivers and react to the ball, which first became obvious in 2007 when he had six interceptions. Robinson was suspended for taking part in the infamous Florida State academic scandal and missed the Music City Bowl and the first three games of the 2008 season.

8. Brandon Ghee

Wake Forest, 6-0, 192, 2: Ghee put on a show at the combine with a 40-yard time of 4.40 seconds and a vertical jump of 37 inches. But in games Ghee seemed to be most impressive against big receivers while struggling against smaller, quicker ones. He appeared to be more focused on making the wow hit than grabbing the interception. His production doesn't seem to match his physical ability, as evidenced by having no interceptions last season. He missed 2007 on academic suspension, was out of spring practices a year ago with a sprained knee and missed two games with a sprained ankle.

9. Chris Cook

Virginia, 6-2, 212, 2-3: Injuries and academic problems limited his production in college. But Cook is expected by many scouts to showcase his considerable athletic ability in the NFL, where he might be moved to safety. He validated his speed and explosion at the combine with a 40-yard time of 4.44 and a vertical jump of 37 inches. But considering his size, he was less than stellar on the bench press, where he hoisted 225 pounds seven times. Cook lost most of the 2005 year with a broken leg, three games in 2007 with a sprained knee and was suspended for the 2008 season for academic reasons. He has great size, excellent speed and looked good as a safety in Senior Bowl practices before being sidelined with a groin injury.

10. Akwasi Owusu-Ansah

Indiana (Pa.), 6-0, 207, 2-3: Born in Ghana, his first name means "Born on Sunday," and pro scouts are curious about how well he might play on Sundays. Owusu-Ansah displayed great ability as a returner, where he had nine career touchdowns — four on punts, three on kickoffs and one each off an interception and a fumble. But he injured his shoulder in November and was unable to play against top competition in postseason all-star games, so questions remain about how well he projects for the NFL. At the combine, he was disappointingly slow (40 yards in 4.58 seconds) and struggled in agility drills. But offseason shoulder surgery might have impacted his workout.

11. Jerome Murphy

South Florida, 6-0, 196, 3: Despite his lanky appearance, Murphy is one of the biggest hitters in this year's cornerback class. He is especially willing and impressive in run support. Last season, he had a career-high 77 tackles along with a team-leading four interceptions and seven pass breakups. He had 67 tackles and a pair of pickoffs in 2008. Although he might fit the need for the bigger cornerbacks that NFL teams seek, it wouldn't be surprising to see Murphy moved to safety, where his abilities to hit and cover will be an asset against the league's pass-happy offenses.

12. Javier Arenas

Alabama, 5-9, 197, 3: Arenas, well-known as a return artist for his prolific displays in high school, gained considerable attention as a cornerback the last couple of years. But concerns about his size and durability were underlined when he measured at 5-85/8 at the combine and was unable to complete the 40-yard dash because of a pulled hamstring. He still could not run at Alabama's pro day in early March. For his career, Arenas averaged 24.1 yards a kickoff return and 14.2 yards a punt return. His seven punt returns for touchdowns are a Southeastern Conference record. He is a cousin of Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas.



SAFETIES

1. *Eric Berry

Tennessee, 6-0, 211, 1: This is one case where there was probably nothing to be gained in terms of his football career had Berry stayed in school for one more year. This intense player has displayed distinctive on-field abilities and might be the best athlete in the draft. He certainly gave credence to that perspective at the combine, where he ran 40 yards in 4.43 seconds, soared 43 inches in the vertical jump and had the second-most reps of any defensive back by benching 225 pounds 19 times. Berry, rated as the top cornerback in the country coming out of high school, found a home at safety in college. In 2008 he led the nation with 265 return yards on seven interceptions and became the first Volunteer voted a consensus first-team All-American since Peyton Manning in 1997.

2. Taylor Mays

Southern California, 6-3, 230, 1: Even in a supposedly controlled environment, Mays seems to create controversy and defy description. At the combine, there was agreement that he measured 6-3?, 230 pounds. But various stop watches had his 40-yard time somewhere between 4.24 (NFL Network) and 4.43 seconds (NFL.com). According to combine officials responsible for collating official times, Mays' sprints registered at 4.31 and 4.33 seconds. So let's agree that he has a freakish combination of size and speed. The real question is what Mays does with it. His penchant for intimidating and mugging players seems to override reacting to the ball. He was used as a center-field type safety because he is at his best when things are in front of him so he can use great closing speed to make a play. But he often took bad angles on deeper plays, resulting in him trailing when he should have been on top of the receiver. If he puts it together, Mays could be a difference-maker in the NFL. His father, Stafford Mays, was a defensive lineman in the NFL for nine seasons.

3. Nate Allen

South Florida, 6-1, 207, 2: This former high school quarterbacking sensation took his athletic ability and leadership to the other side of the ball in college. At South Florida, Allen was respected as a team leader and was responsible for setting the defense on each play. He is deceptive in that he seems to play faster than he runs and is bigger than he measures. That means he has excellent instincts, technique and focus. But his man-to-man coverage ability might be good enough only to take on tight ends and backs in the NFL as he might be overmatched if singled up on a wide receiver. Scouts are looking forward to his March 30 pro day because Allen was unable to run at the combine because of a pulled thigh muscle.

4. *Chad Jones

LSU, 6-2, 221, 2: Though he's projected as a strong safety, that might be a bit of a misnomer for Jones, who managed nine bench-press repetitions of 225 pounds at the scouting combine. Jones rejected a large signing bonus from the Houston Astros, opting to play baseball and football for the Tigers. As a sophomore, he moved from nickel cornerback to starting free safety and collected 74 tackles, six pass breakups, three interceptions and had a 93-yard punt return for a touchdown. He is excellent in run support and closes well, but he must improve his backpedal. Jones posted a 2.70 ERA as a left-handed reliever in LSU's run to the 2009 College World Series championship.

5. *Reshad Jones

Georgia, 6-1, 214, 2-3: He is an interesting athlete who could have used another year in college to improve his abilities. But Jones showed considerable improvement last season, starting 13 games and collecting 73 tackles and a team-leading four interceptions. In Georgia's 44-20 Independence Bowl victory against Texas A&M, Jones had five tackles and a 59-yard interception return. His strength was evidenced by bench-pressing 225 pounds 24 times at the combine, and his explosion was quantified with 39½-inch vertical leap. He used that strength and explosion to make a lot of big hits in college. But to be consistent in the NFL he will need to wrap up better on his tackles.

6. *Morgan Burnett

Georgia Tech, 6-2, 209, 2-3: He had a coming-out party as a sophomore in 2008, when his seven interceptions tied for No. 1 in the nation, and he led his team with 93 tackles while earning All-America buzz. His production wasn't as impressive last season (85 tackles and four interceptions), but he decided it was time to turn pro anyway. He does just about everything well, with excellent awareness and reaction in man and zone coverage, and he can be intimidating as a hitter. His first career touchdown came against Matthew Stafford. Burnett was unable to run at the combine because of a pulled hamstring, but he passed the eyeball test for speed and strength in games.

Cooney is the publisher of NFLDraftScout.com, the scouting service of USA TODAY


Lots of DB talent in this draft. Don't need to take one in Round 1 especially after we took two last year.

[JUST-PLAIN-NASTY]

I think the Steelers think the answer is in Earl Thomas. They might see him as a CB day 1.

[StarSpangledSteeler]

I remember when joey porter left, we had a gaping hole at OLB. It was obvious to everyone we 'had' to draft LB, even to the point of panic. I mean, we were running a 3-4 defense and we had no pass rushing linebackers (Haggans and Harrison? Not acceptable right?). The problem was we were selecting at 1.15 and there wasn't very good value at that position in that year. We were picking too low for Willis (plus he was better suited for ILB a position we didn't 'need') Timmons was the next highest rated OLB, who tested very well at the combine and pro-day and had good character. He was not a Merriman, Ware, type of prospect, but he was one of the better options 'that year', and the fact that we 'needed' an OLB made him more valuable in our (Tomlin's) mind than he should've been. We ended up of course drafting Timmons and Woodley in rounds one and two.

I feel very similar this year, when looking at the CB position. We have an obvious glaring need at CB, almost to the point of panic. The problem is it's a rather weak year for 'first round talent' at that position. Because of that, i feel Haden is being over-valued. He is not a Revis-type talent. In many other years he would be a mid to late first round pick, when corners with better size and technique were running 4.3's. But he is the best option available, i guess, and probably will be better than anyone on our current roster. I don't think he will slip to 18 which means we will most likely have to trade up to get him, probably costing our second rounder in a draft with heavy, heavy talent and value in the second round. I don't like it.

Had we traded up to draft Willis even though we didn't 'need' him right then we would've had a pro-bowl ILB for ten years. I don't want to get into all the if's and but's but my point is i don't want to reach for a CB at 1.18 and i certainly don't want to trade up and reach. I think we just have to see who falls to 18 and get a potential pro-bowler (probably at one of these 4 positions: OT, DT, S, LB) and wait for CB until the second round. Even if we have to trade up in the second, we can get a good quality DB and not have to reach like with Timmons. Plus remember, we just drafted two CB's last year. No one on this board (or even our own FO) truly thought Harrison could be this good. Let's give Lewis/Burnett a chance to be a starter (in their second year) before we label them as a bust.

I agree we need a CB. Let's just not panic.

[flippy]

It's going to be interesting to see what we do.

CBs have become an even more important position in the current NFL.

So not only is Haden being overrated due to the lack of clear 1st round CB talent, but I think all the CBs are being a bit overrated due to every team needing 3 quality CBs if not 4.

I think it may be easier to go against the grain a bit and get premiere safeties and improve your pass rush (which is getting tougher with so many 3-4 defenses now). And then live with lesser CBs.

[williar]

Our biggest need for this team is a corner and I want the rookie corner if we draft one to start day one.

Our offense has all the weapons except the fact we have an O cord that can't handle the horsepower. More player personale will not make Arians smarter.

Our defense is good to excellent except for corners. We can live with Ike but Gay needs replaced.

So true. Corner to me is the most pressing need on our team. Our secondary looked like a high school outfit going up against professionals every week. It was so painful to watch. I cringe at the mocks that have us taking Iupati. I will cry if we do that. We need two corners in this draft and one who is ready to start. Otherwise it's going to be another long season.

[NJ-STEELER]

witht hat many good DBs coming into the draft

i'm hoping for a 1987 like draft where they took DBs 3 out of the first 4 rounds.

address the biggest weakness

[Oviedo]

witht hat many good DBs coming into the draft

i'm hoping for a 1987 like draft where they took DBs 3 out of the first 4 rounds.

address the biggest weakness

That won't happen. They retained Clark, added Will Allen and added Burnett and Lewis last year. Gay was a first year full time starter. Ryan Mundy is still here too. I can see adding 2 DBs in the draft but no way 3 in the first 4 rounds.

I don't think you will see a DB in Round 1.

[NJ-STEELER]

yeah, didn't mean i want 3 in the top 4 rounds specifically, i'm actually hoping for 2 in the top 3-4. corner and FS.


all those names you mention dont really inspire much confidnece in me. their pedigree is mid rounds for a reason.

is lewis and burnett the next (draft wise) gay and hank poteat?

gay sucks, Ike is approaching 30 and still cant play the ball for crap.

i like clark and his hitting but he's also 30 and has hands just as bad as ike
..... like our other positions (hampton, farrior, someone needs to be groomed there like the hood pick last year)
mundy?? haven't seen anything out of him to suggesthe isn't anything more then a back up drafted in the 6th round

allen is prolly a better back up then carrter (who isn't) that also helps special teams, another major weakness last year


the league is more and more becoming a passing league and the last SB displayed 2 teams that throw it often.

better draft and be ready for it instead of relying on past their prime players. it wasn't exactly peyton and brees there that made our secondary look awful last year.
cassel, gradkowski, stafford etc etc

[frankthetank1]

i dont see much of a difference between earl thomas, joe haden compared to the second round projected db's like kyle wilson, chris cook etc. the steelers will take the bpa at #18. i would be just as happy with kyle wilson or cook than i would with haden or thomas. i would be even happier if we got weatherspoon or spiller and wilson or cook.

[Lebsteel]

i dont see much of a difference between earl thomas, joe haden compared to the second round projected db's like kyle wilson, chris cook etc. the steelers will take the bpa at #18. i would be just as happy with kyle wilson or cook than i would with haden or thomas. i would be even happier if we got weatherspoon or spiller and wilson or cook.
Did you read about Cook at his Pro Day? I wouldn't want someone that has to be "coaxed" by his coaches to work hard at his Pro Day. I don't know anything about him other than what I have read and it sounds like his attitude is lacking.


Chris Cook took part in defensive back drills and looked uninspired. Throughout the drills coaches had to coax Cook to pick up the tempo.

Chris Cook did not run this morning at Virginia pro-day.

[RuthlessBurgher]

Plus, Kyle Wilson is not a 2nd round prospect anymore. I expect him to come off the board somewhere in the 20's. I think since Baltimore filled their biggest hole at WR by trading for Boldin, re-signing Mason, and signing Stallworth, they could focus on their 2nd biggest whole by taking Wilson at #25. The latest I see Wilson going is #30 to Minnesota.

[frankthetank1]

i dont see much of a difference between earl thomas, joe haden compared to the second round projected db's like kyle wilson, chris cook etc. the steelers will take the bpa at #18. i would be just as happy with kyle wilson or cook than i would with haden or thomas. i would be even happier if we got weatherspoon or spiller and wilson or cook.
Did you read about Cook at his Pro Day? I wouldn't want someone that has to be "coaxed" by his coaches to work hard at his Pro Day. I don't know anything about him other than what I have read and it sounds like his attitude is lacking.


Chris Cook took part in defensive back drills and looked uninspired. Throughout the drills coaches had to coax Cook to pick up the tempo.

Chris Cook did not run this morning at Virginia pro-day.


i dont put to much stock into a young player who has a questionable attitude. his attitude would be fine if he was lucky enough to get drafted by a team like the steelers. he was very good from what i saw of him in college. i just dont think there is much if any dropage in talent in the top 6 prospects at cb. if we dont have a chance at haden or thomas but get a guy like cook i wont lose any sleep. not nearly as much sleep when we had revis taken right in front of us :HeadBanger

[Chadman]

Getting a CB should definately be a priority. Even perhaps the #1 priority. But that doesn't mean you spend a 1st round pick on CB. The 'value' for CB will likely fall in Round 2/3 range.

Chadman is starting to gravitate towards Jerome Murphy as the preferred CB option- big, physical run stopper- good zone CB, great change of direction ability- just lacking elite foot speed, good, but just not elite.

[hawaiiansteel]

Getting a CB should definately be a priority. Even perhaps the #1 priority. But that doesn't mean you spend a 1st round pick on CB. The 'value' for CB will likely fall in Round 2/3 range.

Chadman is starting to gravitate towards Jerome Murphy as the preferred CB option- big, physical run stopper- good zone CB, great change of direction ability- just lacking elite foot speed, good, but just not elite.



i like the CB you have in your mock, Kareem Jackson in Round 2 would be a great pick!

here is what WalterFootball.com says about Jerome Murphy -


Jerome Murphy, South Florida

Height: 6-0. Weight: 196.
Projected 40 Time: 4.51.
Combine 40 Time: 4.52.
Benchx225: 16. Vertical: .
Projected Round (2010): 3-4.

3/3/10: Ran a slow 40 (4.52) at the Combine, and from what I'm hearing, he turned some people off during the interviews.

[fezziwig]

I just got through watching the Steelers Chicago game and listened to Lovi Smith game interview.
He said he was happy with his passing game and that their receivers won the battle everytime. Everytime ! he made a point of saying.

Bottom line, we need better corners.