2007 Draft Roundup
Jimmy James
Cincinnati Inquirer
Butch Stickney OT 6-5 312
Dominant College player, who permitted only one sack during his college career. True LT-outstanding pass protector- solid run blocker- athletic- fast for OL- quick- excellent feet- fine balance and mobility- long arms- effective pulling or trapping.
Outland trophy finalist. Is agile, a finisher, very athletic, keeps good balance. Needs to add upper body strength. Has had some left shoulder problems, due to tendinitis. Should start early in 2008 but could see significant time this season.
Wade Chelios LB 6-5 260
Leader of the Arizona defense and one of the most dominating defenders in college football in 2006. 17 Sacks and 11 Tackles for loss. A natural for the position, with terrific burst and explosiveness. His size makes him a tougher fit as a pro as he will not match up as a DE. Likely to be moved to OLB, as he has shown the capability to drop into coverage. Had an average Combine. Major playmaker overall, who is expected to be a contributor for the future and can learn behind the existing veteran corps.
Darrin Stone TE 6-6 270
Great size and agility. Big target. 45 receptions and 5 TDs LY. Prototype physically and solid productivity at Pitt. Great hands, makes circus catches. Fluid. Great route runner, tough to bring down. Needs to add strength. 40 time 4.90. Good finesse type blocker but needs improvement also.
Brady Jensen QB 6-4 222
Athletic. Intelligent with decent arm strength. Quick release. Throws well on the run. Strictly developmental as the draft was thin at this position. (2145 yds, 52 % Comp rate., 13 TDs, 10 INTs)
Marlon Giles G 5-11 340
Can play LT. Huge. Inconsistent. Former DL and local favorite from Dayton. Average pass-blocker, slightly better run-blocker. Had a serious knee (torn ACL, left knee) injury in 2003. Still developing.
The Muskrats didn't have a worthy QB pick due to the early selections, but added some players who can help them in the draft. First round pick Butch Stickney (C.Fla) is a fine run blocker who could possibly take over because Searcy retired. Darrin Stone played tight end at Pittsburgh, but may be better suited to play wide receiver in the NFL. Stone has great hands and should be an effective receiver for the Rats. Quarterback Brady Jensen is big and a great athlete but has poor arm strength. He may be the equal of starting quarterback taken 4th round - no more. Linebacker Wade Chelios (Arizona) will provide depth to a linebacking corps that is just getting older. Overall Grade B-
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