SMU players with NFL futures

[Kiper]

This is my initial list -- sure to be updated. Players who are redshirting this year are ineligible for the list, simply because I'd have nothing to go on other than physical statistics. There may be other players (such as freshman wide receiver Jay Taylor) with the physical ability to play at the next level who have not played enough to allow fair evaulation.

So ....
- Kevin Garrett - Anyone who runs in the 4.2-4.3 range gets drafted, and he has decent size for a corner and very good cover skills. Third round, perhaps.
- Vic Viloria - Will get drafted late, if at all, because of lack of size. But he's a warrior who makes plays. See Zach Thomas.
- Jonas Rutledge - Makes plays. Period. Valuable on defense and on special teams. Could become Anthony Dorsett, but has better speed and cover skills.
- D.D. Lee - Solid, strong player with good bulk and speed. Brutal hitter. Fearless when taking on blocks. Needs to show he can stay healthy.
- Chris Cunningham - probably won't get drafted because of his size, but could contribute as a special teams specialist and reserve receiver.
- Leroy Price - Good size and speed, solid hitter. Free agent look.
- John Hampton - May not make a team, but those hands alone will get him a look somewhere.
- ShanDerrick Charles - too early to tell, but certainly looks promising.
- Keylon Kincade - Same as Charles

[SMURecruiting]

Add Kevin Aldrdige to your list. He has incredible speed for his size and is really strong...

[RedRiverPony]

I agree that Aldridge has great speed, but his height will scare off some teams. But his background as a linebacker and running back are indications of the kind of athlete he is, and he should get a look. I heard Tampa Bay had a guy looking at him during preseason workouts and also came to a game in part to check him out.

[Mickey]

You forgot the #1 pro prospect. Joey Slaten, 6-6, 320, with quick feet. He will be drafted.

[SMURecruiting]

From what I hear, the scouts are coming to the games to see Slaten too...

[rogershealy]

Hey what about number 58, Thorton Chandler.
What up playa!

[lawpony]

There have been NFL scouts that have gone to see Aldridge, Slaten, and Mac.

[stangfan]

Hey Kiper,
Excellent list! Your descriptions were right on it.

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stangfan

[Kiper]

Thanks, stangfan. They're just my opinion, but I try to be objective, and I do some homework on the subject.

From what I hear, Slaten obviously has the size every coach loves, but I'm not sure about the quick feet. I think he'll get a free-agent look because of his size and strength, but I'm afraid he'll have a hard time making a roster and will not get drafted.

Also not sure about McCarthy. Make him an inch or two taller, and add 15-20 pounds, and he's a sure draftee, because his reputation as a hard worker and a brawler-type of blocker will get scouts' attention. His reputation alone, and reports from his coaches, might get him into a camp. Reminds me of Steve McCarthy from Texas A&M. Not quite big enough, according to the scales and the measuring tape, but a warrior at heart who got a chance with the Colts and now is a starter. Was drafted late, (fifth round, if memory serves), and wasn't expected to make the team. McCarthy has the mentality to make a similar impression if he gets into the right situation.

rogershealy is right - Thornton Chandler does have a legitimate chance to get drafted when he's done. He's a little light still, (NFL scouts want to see just about every lineman top 300 now), but he has a long frame and could easily carry more weight. He has long arms that scouts like, and a big backside - can gerate a lot of power from those hips.

Now don't get me wrong - I hope I'm wrong and that they all get drafted in the first round. Just offering opinions.

Sleeper draft pick for three years from now: Safety Rico Harris. Has the frame to be a great one, and word is he kills people in practice. Someone to keep an eye on.