2008 NFL Draft as it happens Round 1

[Gazzara]

(1) Miami Dolphins - Jake Long (OT, Michigan)



One of the most decorated offensive linemen in the storied history of the Michigan program, the two-time team captain became the first Wolverine and only the fourth player ever to garner Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honors in consecutive seasons.

By doing so, Long joined Ohio State's Orlando Pace (1995-96) and Korey Stringer (1993-94) and Michigan State's Tony Mandarich (1987-88).

The senior offensive tackle gave Michigan three Offensive Lineman of the Year awards in the last four seasons, as David Baas was honored in 2004. Other Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honorees from Michigan include guard Steve Hutchinson (2000) and tackles Jon Jansen (1998) and Greg Skrepenak (1991).

Even though their hopes for a national title were dashed in an upset loss to Division 1-AA Appalachian State in their season opener, the Wolverines were grateful that their offensive leader returned to the playing field for the 2007 season. After his junior campaign, Long was seriously considering filing early for the NFL Draft. Being very close to tailback Mike Hart, both juniors made the decision to return for their final campaign.

"It was best for me and for the team to stay another year," Long said. "I looked into it a little bit, but I never was close to leaving. I really want my degree, and we have unfinished business as a team." Apparently, Hart was prepared to follow Long into the NFL a year early, too. "When we were making our decision last year, he came up to me and said if I'm leaving, then he's going to leave,'' Long said at the Big Ten Conference 2007 preseason convention.

"If I stay, then he's going to stay.'' As he spoke, Long glanced at the table in the Hyatt Regency Hotel meeting room where Hart was surrounded by reporters. "You can't lose your right tackle (and) lose your left tackle and come back and have the same season you had the year before,'' Hart noted.

Michigan coach Lloyd Carr admitted he had his doubts at a certain stage in the decision-making process.

"Jake Long, I thought at one point was going to leave. I always meet with the seniors the Monday after Ohio State to talk about what their plans are, because it impacts recruiting. Jake Long, on that day, he was undecided (whether to turn pro),'' Carr recalled. "But when he came back, the first reason, he said, 'I'm just not ready to leave college and my teammates.' That speaks to who he is. How many guys would turn that down? ... Mike Hart, he never hesitated. Henne talked about graduating and a championship. You want guys like that.''

Long decided to protect himself financially in case he got hurt before the league's 2008 draft arrives. After getting guidance from recruiting coordinator Chris Singletary - who previously worked with the sports agent firm IMG - Long purchased an insurance policy. "(I did it) just so I can go out there and not worry about getting injured,'' he said. "I just go out there and focus on football and not worry about the repercussions of getting hurt.''

At Lapeer East High School, Long was a three-year starter on the offensive line. He was ranked the 17th-best player on the Detroit Free Press Best of the Midwest team and rated the 22nd-best offensive lineman in the nation by Collegefootballnews.com. Prep Football Report rated Long the 12th-best offensive tackle in the country and he was ranked as the 21st-best offensive tackle by Rivals100.com, who gave him a four-star prospect grade.

Max Emfinger's Recruiting Service rated Long the nation's fifth-best offensive tackle, as he earned All-American and All-Midwest honors from Super Prep. He was ranked as the second-best player in Michigan on the Detroit News Blue Chip list and named to Prep Star's All-Midwest Region squad. He was also selected to the Detroit News, Detroit Free Press and Lansing State Journal Dream Team squads, as he became the first player in school history to earn All-State first-team honors.

An all-conference first-team offensive and defensive tackle as a junior and senior, he also earned All-State honorable mention as a junior. On offense, he did not allow any quarterback sacks in three seasons as a starter, grading over 90% for blocking consistency throughout his career. As a defensive tackle, he recorded 213 tackles with eleven sacks, 38 stops for losses and nine forced fumbles.

Long posted 91 tackles with four sacks as a senior and delivered 72 tackles and four sacks during his junior season. He rushed for three touchdowns as a fullback during his junior campaign and added another touchdown as a senior. He also lettered in baseball as a first baseman, setting the school home run and RBI records as a junior. He was also the starting center on basketball team, as he broke the school record for shooting percentage during his junior year (62.3 percent).

Long enrolled at Michigan with much fanfare in 2003, but was forced to spend the season on the scout team. He appeared in 12 games for the Wolverines in 2004. Even though he began his collegiate career as a reserve left tackle, he went on to start the final ten games at right tackle. He earned All-Big Ten Conference second-team honors from the league's coaches as a redshirt freshman. He also picked up Scripps/Football Writers Association of America, The Sporting News and Rivals.com Freshman All-American recognition.

As a sophomore, Long saw his 2005 season delayed by spring shoulder surgery. He missed the team's first seven games before returning in a reserve role at right tackle vs. Iowa. He would then move into the starting lineup for the Wolverines' final four contests, but was also hampered by foot and ankle injuries.

Fully recovered from shoulder problems, Long went on to establish himself among the nation's elite left offensive tackles in 2006. The team co-captain earned American Football Coaches Association, Walter Camp Football Foundation, Football Writers Association of America, Rivals.com and Sports Illustrated All-American first-team honors.

Named All-Big Ten and the league's Offensive Lineman of the Year, Long also picked up Hugh R. Rader Jr. Memorial Award honors (Michigan's top offensive lineman) and was a David Brandon Leadership Award co-recipient with LaMarr Woodley. The Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award candidate graded 87.0% for blocking consistency, as he allowed just two quarterback sacks and posted 128 knockdowns with 15 touchdown-resulting blocks for an offense that averaged 370.8 yards per game.

Honors continued to pour in for Long throughout the 2007 season, as he again earned All-Big Ten Conference first-team and league Offensive Player of the Year accolades. He finished second in the voting for both the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award, as he picked up consensus All-American first-team recognition.

Long paced an offense that averaged 373.5 yards per game, despite key injuries that sidelined quarterback Chad Henne and running back Mike Hart for a good portion of the first half of the campaign. He would register 119 knockdowns with 18 touchdown-resulting blocks, leading Big Ten blockers with an 87.85% grade for blocking consistency. He would close out his career with 40 starting assignments, including a string of 30 consecutive starts.

Career Notes

Long started 40 games during his career, including his last 30 at left tackle...In his last two seasons, he registered 245 knockdown blocks, including 33 that resulted in Michigan touchdowns...In his last 26 contests, he allowed just three quarterback sacks and was penalized only once on 1,743 offensive plays.

High School

Attended Lapeer (Mich.) East High School, playing football for head coach Brad Gerlach...Three-year starter on the offensive line...Ranked the 17th-best player on the Detroit Free Press Best of the Midwest team and rated the 22nd-best offensive lineman in the nation by Collegefootballnews.com...Prep Football Report rated Long the 12th-best offensive tackle in the country and he was ranked as the 21st-best offensive tackle by Rivals100.com, who gave him a four-star prospect grade...Max Emfinger's Recruiting Service rated Long the nation's fifth-best offensive tackle, as he earned All-American and All-Midwest honors from Super Prep...Ranked as the second-best player in Michigan on the Detroit News Blue Chip list and named to Prep Star's All-Midwest Region squad...Selected to the Detroit News, Detroit Free Press and Lansing State Journal Dream Team squads, as he became the first player in school history to earn All-State first-team honors...The All-Conference first-team offensive and defensive tackle as a junior and senior, he also earned All-State honorable mention as a junior...On offense, he did not allow any quarterback sacks in three seasons as a starter, grading over 90% for blocking consistency throughout his career...As a defensive tackle, he recorded 213 tackles with 11 sacks, 38 stops for losses and nine forced fumbles...Posted 91 tackles with four sacks as a senior and 72 tackles and four sacks during his junior season...Rushed for three touchdowns as a fullback during his junior campaign and added another touchdown as a senior...Also lettered in baseball as a first baseman, setting the school home run and RBI records as a junior...Was also the starting center on basketball team, as he broke the school record for shooting percentage during his junior year (62.3 percent).

[Aeyjay]

Looks like Chris Long willbe a Ram which leaves the Falcs picking Dorsey and us with a quandry at 4, pick McFadden, reach for Ellis, risk Gholston or trade down? At this point picking McFadden is looking the safer choice?

[jonesbonesy]

just been comfirmed on NFL network the Rams will pick Chris Long.  Rumors are that the Saints want Dorsey and may trade with Oakland.

[Aeyjay]

It all depends whether the Falcs go Dorsey or Ryan if Dorsey is available we should pick him and unless New Orleons gives up something good why bother? We would want to trade down to 8 with the Ravens at worst to get Ellis (got to pick in front of the Bengals) otherwise see if Dallas can be tempted into McFadden(unlikely)

[R8RMR]

And we are off!

[R8RMR]

Chris Long will not be a Raider.

[R8RMR]

2 - St Louis Rams - Chris Long (DE, Virginia)



Regarded by many as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football entering his senior season, Long more than lived up to those expectations, terrorizing opposing quarterbacks to the tune of 14 sacks, 23 pressures, nine pass break-ups and an interception in 2007. He also caused a pair of fumbles on sacks that Virginia recovered, leading to Cavaliers scores.

Named the Atlantic Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year and the recipient of the Ted Hendricks Award (nation's top defensive end), Long has certainly emerged from the shadows of his father, former Oakland Raiders defensive end and Hall of Famer, Howie Long. "You want to talk about a chip off the old block? This is a young man that plays absolutely lights-out football," North Carolina head coach Butch Davis said. "Chris Long has to be one of the premier defensive linemen in the country."

Virginia head coach Al Groh also had nothing but rave reviews on Long, stating, "It's hard to imagine there being a better player at any position than Chris Long. A guy would have to be one of the Transformers to be better than Chris. When you've got one of the best players the school's ever had and he's only interested in helping the team win, it puts an exclamation point on what you're trying to do." Groh was amazed that Chris did not receive more Heisman Trophy consideration: "If they're ever going to invite a defensive player to New York in December for the Heisman Trophy presentation, you'd have to think it was Chris Long."

Long was well-known to college recruiters, especially after a stellar career at St. Anne's-Belfield School, where competed on both lines for the state champion squad. The Super Prep and Prep Star All-American received a four-star prospect rating from Rivals.com, a service that rated him the sixth-best defensive end in the prep ranks. Tom Lemming ranked him eighth in the country at defensive end and College Football News placed him 11th at that position.

Long was a member of Rival.com's Atlantic East Amazing-80 team and he was an honorable mention All-South choice by the Orlando Sentinel. He was named 2003 Gatorade Player of the Year in Virginia and rated as the second-best player in Virginia by the Charlottesville Daily Progress "Gold List," third by the Roanoke Times and fourth by Super Prep and Rivals.com. He was also a three-time first-team All-State selection on offense and defense.

The Central Virginia Defensive Player of the Year by the Daily Progress as a senior, Long was a three-time first-team All-Central Virginia defensive lineman by the Charlottesville Daily Progress and earned first-team All-Central Virginia honors his senior season as an offensive lineman as well. He was selected Conference Defensive Player of the Year his final two seasons and was selected Student Sports Junior All-American in 2002.

Long registered 91 tackles (44 solos) as a senior to help lead his team to an undefeated season and the state championship, as he had 23 tackles for loss and 15 sacks that season. He also recorded 72 pancake blocks on offense. As a junior, he posted 85 tackles with 12 sacks and more than 20 tackles for loss. The three-time first-team All-Conference choice finished his career with 43 sacks and 66 tackles for loss. He also played basketball, lacrosse, and baseball during his high school career, winning the 2003 YMCA Slam Dunk Contest for high school students.

Long would hold the rare distinction of having his jersey retired at St. Anne's Belfield School and also at the University of Virginia, where he played in six games during his freshman year in 2004. He posted five tackles with an 8-yard sack before being sidelined due to a bout of mononucleosis.

As a sophomore, Long took over right defensive end duties, starting all 12 games. He totaled 46 tackles (22 solos) with 1.5 sacks and had 7.5 stops for losses, along with 26 pressures and seven pass deflections in 752 plays. In 2006, he earned All-State honors, helping the team rank 17th in the nation, allowing just 289.5 yards per game in total offense. He collected 57 tackles (32 solos) with 4.5 sacks, adding 9.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage to go with 21 pressures in 715 defensive snaps.

As a senior, Long received countless postseason honors, including consensus first-team All-American and unanimous All-Atlantic Coast Conference first-team accolades. He ranked second on the team with 79 tackles (36 solos). The defensive captain tied for third in the nation with 14 sacks and was 14th nationally with 19 stops for losses. He had 23 pressures with an interception and nine pass deflections while blocking one kick and causing two fumbles.

In 43 games at Virginia, Long started 37 times. He recorded 187 tackles (93 solos) with 70 quarterback pressures, three forced fumbles, a 25-yard interception return and 17 pass deflections. He ranks tied for seventh in school history with 21 sacks for minus-171 yards and is sixth all-time in Virginia annals with 38 stops for losses totaling 211 yards. He also blocked one kick while participating in 2,432 defensive plays.


Career Notes
Long's 21 quarterback sacks tied Sean Scott (1984-87) for seventh on the school's career-record list, topped by Chris Slade (40, 1989-92), Darryl Blackstock (27, 2002-04), Mike Frederick (26, 1991-94), Patrick Kerney (24, 1995-98), Stuart Anderson (23, 1978-81) and Duane Ashman (23, 1993-96)...His 14 sacks in 2007 tied Chris Slade (1991) for third on Virginia's season-record list behind Slade's 15 in 1992 and Patrick Kerney's 15 in 1998...His 38 tackles behind the line of scrimmage placed him sixth on the school's career-record chart, surpassed by Chris Slade (56, 1989-92), Mike Frederick (50, 1991-94), Darryl Blackstock (45, 2002-04), Stuart Anderson (42, 1978-81) and Jamie Sharper (41, 1993-96)...Long's 19 stops for losses in 2007 rank fifth on Virginia's season-record list behind Chris Slade (21 in 1991 and 20 in 1992), Mike Frederick (21 in 1993) and Patrick Kerney (21 in 1998).


High School
Attended St. Anne's-Belfield (Charlottesville, Va.) School, playing football for head coach John Blake...Competed on both lines for the state champion squad...Super Prep and Prep Star All-American choice...Received a four-star prospect rating from Rivals.com., a service that rated him the sixth-best defensive end in the prep ranks...Tom Lemming ranked him eighth in the country at defensive end and College Football News placed him 11th at that position...Member of Rival.com's Atlantic East Amazing-80 team...Honorable mention All-South choice by the Orlando Sentinel...Named 2003 Gatorade Player of the Year in Virginia and rated as the second-best player in Virginia by the Charlottesville Daily Progress "Gold List," third by the Roanoke Times and fourth by Super Prep...Three-time first-team All-State selection on offense and defense...Central Virginia Defensive Player of the Year by the Daily Progress as a senior...Three-time first-team All-Central Virginia defensive lineman by the Charlottesville Daily Progress and earned first-team All-Central Virginia honors his senior season as an offensive lineman as well...Selected Conference Defensive Player of the Year his final two seasons and was selected Student Sports Junior All-American in 2002...Registered 91 tackles (44 solos) as a senior to help lead his team to an undefeated season and the state championship, as he had 23 tackles for loss and 15 sacks that season...Also recorded 72 pancake blocks on offense...As a junior, he posted 85 tackles with 12 sacks and more than 20 tackles for loss. The three-time first-team All-Conference choice finished his career with 43 sacks and 66 tackles for loss...Also played basketball, lacrosse and baseball during his high school career, winning the 2003 YMCA Slam Dunk Contest for high school students.

[Gazzara]

3 - Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan (QB, Boston College)



Overview

When a new coaching staff, headed by Jeff Jagodzinski, took over at Boston College during the spring, there were many questions, but the staff felt that the quarterback picture was in very capable hands with Ryan at the helm.

Recovered from a nagging foot injury that plagued him throughout the 2006 season, the lanky quarterback has compiled a 25-7 record as a starter for the Eagles.

Ryan went on to earn Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year honors as a senior and was emerging as one of the Heisman Trophy favorites until the Eagles lost three of their final five regular season games. He would go on to rank eighth in the nation in total offense and established new school records for 400-yard passing performances in both a career and season, en route to throwing for 4,507 yards.

At William Penn Charter School, Ryan earned All-East honors from Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report. He also captured All-Southeastern Pennsylvania accolades as a senior quarterback, in addition to receiving All-City first-team honors in 2002 and second-team recognition in 2001. He also was a three-time All-League (InterAc) selection.

Ryan threw for more than 1,300 yards with 15 touchdowns and just two interceptions as a senior. He finished his career by completing more than 52 percent of his pass attempts during his three seasons at the helm. He served as football team captain in 2002 and also captained the school's basketball and baseball teams.

Ryan followed in the footsteps of his uncle, John Loughery, who played quarterback at Boston College from 1979-82. He enrolled at the university in 2003, spending the season performing on the scout team. He earned BC's Freshman Male Scholar-Athlete Award recognition in 2004. He appeared in seven games, starting the regular-season finale vs. Syracuse. He hit on 35-of-71 passes (49.3%) for 350 yards, a pair of touchdowns and three interceptions.

The MVP of the MPC Computers Bowl vs. Boise State, Ryan started five of 10 games for the Eagles in 2005. He took over starting duties from Quinton Porter midway through the season, going on to throw for 1,514 yards, eight touchdowns and five interceptions on 121-of-195 throws (62.1%). He also rushed 37 times for 94 yards (2.5-yard average) and five scores, becoming the first BC quarterback since 1998 to run for two scores in a game (vs. Ball State).

A broken bone in his left foot limited Ryan's mobility the second half of season, but he still earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference first-team honors in 2006. He led the ACC in total offense (242.25 yards per game), points responsible for (9.63 per game), pass completions (No. 10 in the nation with 21.92 per game) and passing yards per game (15th nationally with an average of 245.17 yards per game). He completed 263-of-427 passes (61.6%) for 2,942 yards, 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He also ran for four scores, finishing with 2,907 yards in total offense.

Ryan underwent offseason foot surgery and was fully recovered by spring drills. The team offensive captain was named ACC Offensive Player of the Year and earned league Player of the Week honors six times during the 2007 campaign. He shattered single-season BC records, as he completed 388-of-654 passes (59.3%) for 4,507 yards, 31 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. He also scored twice on 68 carries, finishing with 4,509 yards in total offense, an average of 322.1 yards per game.

In 45 games at Boston College, Ryan started 34 contests. He connected on 837 of 1,347 passes (59.91%) for 9,313 yards, 56 touchdowns and 37 interceptions. He rushed 168 times for 58 yards (0.3-yard avg) and 11 scores, adding a one-yard reception and one solo tackle. He lost seven of his 17 total fumbles and was sacked 50 times for losses totaling 381 yards. On 1,515 offensive plays, he amassed 9,371 yards in total offense, an average of 208.24 yards per game.

Career Notes

Ryan's 807 pass completions established a school record, topping the old mark of 703 by Glenn Foley (1990-93)...His completion percentage of 59.91 ranks behind Mike Kruczek (66.8%, 1973-75) and Paul Peterson (60.76%, 2003-04) in BC's record book...His 9,313 yards passing placed him third on the BC all-time record list behind Doug Flutie (10,579 yards, 1981-84) and Glenn Foley (10,039 yards, 1990-93)...His 1,347 pass attempts topped the old Eagles all-time record of 1,275 by Foley and 1,271 by Flutie...Ryan's 54 touchdown passes rank third in Eagles history, surpassed by Foley (72) and Flutie (67)...His 1,515 plays for 9,371 yards in total offense also rank third behind Flutie (1,558 plays for 11,318 yards, 1981-84) and Foley (1,441 plays for 9,719 yards, 1990-93)...Ryan's 9,024 yards in total offense rank 12th and 8,963 yards passing rank seventh on the Atlantic Coast Conference career-record charts (Boston College did not begin playing in the ACC until 2005, Ryan's sophomore year)...Set school records with 263 pass completions on 427 attempts in 2006, surpassing the old marks of 237 completions by Brian St. Pierre in 2002 and 423 attempts by Shawn Halloran in 1985...Ryan would then shatter his own BC records in 2007, as he connected on 388 of 654 passes...With his 388 pass completions in 2007, Ryan joined Philip Rivers of North Carolina State (348 in 2003) and Ben Bennett of Duke (300 in 1983) as the only quarterbacks in ACC history to complete 300 passes in a season...His 654 pass attempts shattered the previous league record of 484 by Anthony Dilweg of Duke in 1988...His 2,942 yards passing in 2006 rank fifth on the school record list behind Doug Flutie (3,454 in 1984), Glenn Foley (3,397 in 1993), Brian St. Pierre (2,983 in 2002) and Ryan's school-record 4,507 yards in 2007...His 4,507 yards also set an ACC single-season record, topping Philip Rivers of North Carolina State (4,491 yards in 2003)...Chris Weinke of Florida State (4,167 in 2000) is the only other player in conference annals to throw for over 4,000 yards in a season, besides Ryan and Rivers...His 2006 completion percentage of 61.6 was the sixth-best season total in BC annals...Set a school record by participating in 722 offensive plays in 2007 and his 478 offensive plays in 2006 are topped only by Ryan's 2007 figure and Shawn Halloran (488 in 1985) on BC's annual record chart...His 722 plays also set a new ACC record, surpassing the previous mark of 588 offensive snaps by John Kaleo of Maryland in 1992...His 2,907 yards in total offense in 2006 was the sixth-highest season total by an Eagles player, topped by Doug Flutie (3,603 in 1984 and 3,019 in 1982), Glenn Foley (3,353 in 1993), Brian St. Pierre (3,109 in 2002) and Ryan's 4,509 yards in 2007...His 4,509 yards also rank second in conference history behind Philip Rivers of North Carolina State (4,600 in 2003)...Ryan's 31 touchdown passes in 2007 broke the school record of 27 by Doug Flutie in 1984...With his 31 scoring strikes, he joined Rivers (34 in 2003), Chris Weinke of Florida State (33 in 2000) and Danny Kanell of Florida State (32 in 1995) as the only ACC players to throw for 30 touchdowns in a season...Threw for over 400 yards five times in his career, breaking the old school record of four by Doug Flutie (1981-84)...His four 400-yard passing performances in 2007 also set a Boston College record...His career-high 435 yards vs. Georgia Tech in 2007 ranks sixth on the school's list of single-game passing performances...His 57 pass attempts in the 2006 Wake Forest game tied Shawn Halloran (vs. Syracuse in 1985) and Frank Harris (vs. Army in 1968) for the BC record...His 40 pass completions in the 2006 Wake Forest game broke the old school record of 37 by Frank Harris in the 1968 Army clash...His five touchdown passes in the 2007 Wake Forest game are one shy of the school record of six, held by Doug Flutie (1984 vs. North Carolina).

High School

Attended William Penn (Philadelphia, Pa.) Charter School, playing football for head coach Brian McCloskey...Earned All-East honors from Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report...Also captured All-Southeastern Pennsylvania accolades as a senior quarterback, in addition to receiving All-City first-team honors in 2002 and second-team recognition in 2001...Three-time All-League (InterAc) selection...Threw for more than 1,300 yards with 15 touchdowns and just two interceptions as a senior...Finished his career by completing more than 52 percent of his pass attempts during all three seasons at the helm...Served as football team captain in 2002 and also captained the school's basketball and baseball teams...Competed as a small forward in basketball and as a pitcher and shortstop on the baseball squad.

[R8RMR]

4 - Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden (RB, Arkansas)



Overview
Darren McFadden, a two-time Heisman runner-up, is regarded as one of the finest players in college football in recent years and one of the best to come out of the University of Arkansas.

The two-time Doak Walker Award winner shattered numerous school and Southeastern Conference records during his three seasons at Arkansas, establishing himself as one of the league's elite all-time backs -- Herschel Walker of Georgia, Bo Jackson of Auburn and Emmitt Smith of Florida.

McFadden was often utilized as the quarterback in the "Wildcat" formation, dominating defenses with his running and passing. He shared the backfield with another 1,000-yard rusher and first-team All-American kick returner Felix Jones, as the duo formed the most potent running back tandem in the nation, helping the Razorbacks average 286.54 yards per game on the ground in 2007.

In 38 games as a Razorback, McFadden rushed for over 100 yards 22 times. By winning the Doak Walker Award in both 2006 and '07, he became just the third Arkansas player to ever garner national award recognition in the 112 years of the program, joining Bud Brooks (1954 Outland Trophy) and Loyd Phillips (1966 Outland Trophy).

By gaining 1,113 yards rushing in 2005, 1,647 in '06 and a school-record 1,830 yards in '07, McFadden joined Georgia's Herschel Walker (1980-82) as the only players in Southeastern Conference history to rush for over 1,000 yards as a freshman, sophomore and junior. He is also the second UA player to rush for 1,000 yards three times, joining Ben

Cowins (1976-78). McFadden is the first to do it in his first three seasons.

At Pulaski Oak Grove High School, McFadden became the only player from the state of Arkansas to be named to the Parade All-American team in 2004. The two-time All-State, All-Area and All-South choice was chosen the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's Offensive Player of the Year as a senior and was also selected to that newspaper's All-Arkansas squad.

McFadden was ranked as the No. 23 prospect in the nation and the top prospect in Arkansas by Rivals.com. The organization also rated him as a five-star prospect and the third-best athlete in the country. Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report rated him as the eighth-best running back in the nation. He was ranked 21st on the Mobile Register's Super Southeast 120 listing. He was also listed 21st in The Dallas Morning News Top 100. He was among the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Super Southern 100 and participated in the 2005 Arkansas High School All-Star Game.

McFadden was tabbed as the Class 4A-Southeast Conference's Outstanding Back, as he racked up 1,965 yards and 27 touchdowns on 184 carries as a senior. He averaged 10.7 yards per carry and scored three or more rushing touchdowns in six games during his final campaign. He made three receptions for 67 yards and one score. He completed 6-of-15 passes for 75 yards and two touchdowns as a quarterback. He also returned nine punts for 370 yards and three touchdowns.

As a junior, McFadden rushed for a school-record 2,027 yards and 19 touchdowns on 204 carries. He averaged 9.9 yards per attempt, leading his squad to an 8-4 record and second-place finish in the Class 5-AAA Conference. He hauled in nine passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns as a junior. He also earned 103 yards on 12 punt returns. In his sophomore campaign, he rushed for 859 yards and 13 touchdowns on 109 carries. He hauled in 12 receptions for 333 yards and five scores. He also returned 10 punts for 82 yards and 14 kickoffs for 372 yards.

McFadden totaled 4,871 yards rushing on 497 attempts in his prep career and averaged 9.8 yards per carry. In addition to football, he was a standout in baseball and track and field in high school. He was also recruited by a host of other schools including Tennessee, Alabama, Nebraska, Auburn and Iowa, but decided to enroll at Arkansas after attending Houston Nutt's Football Camp as a junior.

McFadden's arrival at Arkansas was met with much fanfare and he certainly did not disappoint, setting school freshman rushing records with 1,113 yards and 11 scores on 176 carries (6.3-yard average) in 2005. He caught 14 passes for 52 yards, returned 12 kickoffs for 348 yards (29-yard avg) and averaged 137.5 all-purpose yards per game.

He earned All-American honorable mention from Pro Football Weekly and first-team fresh-man All-American accolades from the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), College Football News, ESPN.com, Rivals.com, Scout.com and The Sporting News. He was also named the Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Year by the Associated Press and the league's coaches.

As a sophomore, McFadden's rushing yardage total of 1,647 on 284 attempts (5.8-yard average) was more than that of 54 of the 119 Division I-A teams (45.4%), while his 14 rushing touchdowns were better than 43 teams nationally (36.1%). The consensus All-American was the recipient of the Doak Walker Award and finished second in the voting for the Heisman Trophy. He also had 11 receptions for 149 yards (13.5-yard average) and a score while completing 7-of-9 passes (77.8%) for 69 yards and three touchdowns. He averaged 26.2 yards with a score on ten kickoff returns and 147 all-purpose yards, scoring 98 points. He also rushed for over 100 yards eight times.

McFadden had an up-and-down junior campaign, but still garnered consensus All-American honors while again winning the Doak Walker Award and finishing second in the Heisman Trophy race. He gained over 100 yards rushing 10 times, as he broke his own school record with 1,830 yards and 16 touchdowns on 325 rushes (5.6-yard average). However, he did fumble the ball 15 times, with the opposition recovering five of them. He had 21 catches for 164 yards (7.8-yard average) and a score, hit on 6-of-11 throws (54.5%) for 123 yards and four touchdowns, scoring 102 points. He finished the season with 102 points scored and gained 2,310 all-purpose yards, an average of 177.69 yards per game.

In 38 games at Arkansas, McFadden carried 785 times for 4,590 yards (5.85-yard average) and 41 touchdowns. He grabbed 46 passes for 365 yards (7.9 avg) and two scores, as he also returned 38 kickoffs for 926 yards (24.4 avg) and a touchdown. He completed 14-of-22 passes (63.6%) for 205 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception while recording five solo tackles with a fumble recovery.

McFadden totaled 268 points with 44 overall touchdowns and amassed 5,881 all-purpose yards (154.76 yards per game). He ran for 100 or more yards in 22 games, but had 23 fumbles, losing nine.


Career Notes
McFadden's 785 rushing attempts set a school record, topping the previous mark of 635 by Ben Cowins (1975-78)...Only Herschel Walker of Georgia (994, 1980-82), Dalton Hilliard of Louisiana State (882, 1982-85), Errict Rhett of Florida (873, 1990-93), Kevin Faulk of Louisiana State (856, 1995-98) and Charles Alexander of Louisiana State (855, 1975-78) had more carries than McFadden in Southeastern Conference history...His 325 runs in 2007 set the school's single-season record, topping the old mark of 307 by Madre Hill in 1995...McFadden's 4,590 yards rushing shattered Ben Cowins' (1975-78) previous school all-time record of 3,570 yards and rank second in conference annals behind Herschel Walker of Georgia (5,259 in 33 games, 1980-82)...His average of 120.79 yards per game rushing placed him third on the SEC's career-record list behind Walker (159.36 yards per game) and Emmitt Smith of Florida (126.71 ypg, 1987-89)...His 1,830 yards in 2007 and 1,647 yards in 2006 both broke the previous Arkansas season record of 1,387 yards by Madre Hill in 1995... His 2007 total of 1,830 yards on the ground are surpassed only by Walker's 1,891 yards (1981) on the SEC single-season list...Ran for 41 touchdowns during his career, second in school history behind Bill Burnett's 46 scoring runs (1968-70)...Joined Herschel Walker (49, 1980-82), Kevin Faulk (46, 1995-98), Carnell Williams of Auburn (45, 2001-04), Dalton Hilliard (44, 1982-85), Bo Jackson of Auburn (43, 1982-85), Shaun Alexander of Alabama (41, 1996-99) and Charles Alexander (40, 1975-78) as the only players in SEC history to run for 40 or more touchdowns in a career...His 16 touchdown runs in 2007 tied Bobby Burnett (1965) for third on the school's single-season list, topped only by Bill Burnett (19 in 1969) and James Rouse (17 in 1987)...His 14 rushing touchdowns tied for seventh on the Arkansas annual record list...McFadden's four touchdowns rushing vs. Florida International in 2007 were the most by an Arkansas player in a game since Madre Hill scored six times vs. South Carolina in 1995...His 22 100-yard rushing performances broke the previous school record of 16 by Ben Cowins (1975-78)...McFadden's 5,881 all-purpose yards shattered the old school all-time record of 4,535 yards by Gary Anderson (1979-82) and rank second in Southeastern Conference history behind Kevin Faulk of Louisiana State (6,883 yards, 1995-98)...His 2,310 all-purpose yards in 2007 broke his own school season-record of 2,058 in 2006 (previous record before 2006 was 1,604 yards by Dickey Morton in 1973)...His 2007 total of 2,310 all-purpose yards surpassed the old conference record of 2,120 yards by Domanick Davis of Louisiana State in 2002...His 355 all-purpose yards vs. South Carolina in 2007 set a school record, breaking his own previous mark of 315 yards vs. South Carolina in 2006 (record before his 2006 performance was 293 yards by Harry Jones vs. Oklahoma State in 1965)...Both McFadden and Felix Jones combined for 487 yards rushing in the 2007 South Carolina clash, breaking the old NCAA record of 476 yards by Kansas' Tony Sands (396) and Chip Hilleary (80) vs. Missouri in 1991...His 355 all-purpose yards vs. South Carolina in 2007 rank fourth on the SEC's list behind Moe Williams of Kentucky (429 vs. South Carolina in 1995), Kevin Faulk of Louisiana State (376 vs. Houston in 1996) and Rafael Little of Kentucky (372 vs. Vanderbilt in 2005)...McFadden's 321 yards rushing vs. South Carolina in 2007 topped the old school record of 271 by Dickey Morton vs. Baylor in 1973 and tied the conference mark that was first set by Frank Mordica of Vanderbilt vs. Air Force in 1978...He is the first sophomore to win the Doak Walker Award (nation's top running back) and, by winning in 2006 and in '07, he joined Ricky Williams of Texas (1997-98) as the only player to win that honor twice... Was the first player to twice finish second in the voting for the Heisman Trophy (2006-07)...McFadden (1,647 yards in 2006 and 1,830 in 2007) and Felix Jones (1,168 in 2006 and 1,162 in '07) became the first teammates in SEC history to run for over 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons and the third tandem to accomplish that feat in one campaign, joining Auburn's James Brooks and Joe Cribbs (1979), and Tennessee's Gerald Riggs Jr. and Cedric Houston (2004)...The only other NCAA tandem to have back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons was Minnesota's Marion Barber III and Laurence Maroney (2003-04).


High School
Attended Pulaski Oak Grove (Little Rock, Ark.) High School, playing football for head coach John Mayes...Became the only player from the state of Arkansas to be named to the Parade All-American team in 2004...Two-time All-State, All-Area and All-South choice...Was named the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's Offensive Player of the Year as a senior and was selected to that newspaper's All-Arkansas squad...Ranked as the No. 23 prospect in the nation and the top prospect in Arkansas by Rivals.com (Rivals also rated him as a five-star prospect and the third-best athlete in the country)...Tom Lemming's Prep Football Report rated him as the eighth-best running back in the nation...Ranked 21st on the Mobile Register's Super Southeast 120 listing...Listed 21st in The Dallas Morning News Top 100...Among the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Super Southern 100 and participated in the 2005 Arkansas High School All-Star Game...Tabbed as the Class 4A-Southeast Conference's Outstanding Back, as he racked up 1,965 yards and 27 touchdowns on 184 carries as a senior...Averaged 10.7 yards per carry and scored three or more rushing touchdowns in six games during his final campaign...Also made three receptions for 67 yards and one score, completed 6-of-15 passes for 75 yards and two touchdowns as a quarterback and returned nine punts for 370 yards and three touchdowns...As a junior, he rushed for a school-record 2,027 yards and 19 touchdowns on 204 carries...Averaged 9.9 yards per attempt, leading his squad to an 8-4 record and second-place finish in the Class 5-AAA Conference...Hauled in nine passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns as a junior and also earned 103 yards on 12 punt returns...In his sophomore campaign, he rushed for 859 yards and 13 touchdowns on 109 carries...Hauled in 12 receptions for 333 yards and five scores, returned 10 punts for 82 yards and 14 kickoffs for 372 yards...Totaled 4,871 yards rushing on 497 attempts in his prep career and averaged 9.8 yards per carry...In addition to football, he was a standout in baseball and track and field.

[Gazzara]

now we know who is running this team in 2008 and it is not Kiffin 

[Gazzara]

5 - Kansas City Chiefs - Glenn Dorsey (DT, LSU)



Overview

The most decorated player in the history of the school, Dorsey continued a recent tradition of Tigers defensive linemen earning first-team All-American honors, as at least one LSU player has received that honor since the 2000 season. The defensive tackle's mantelpiece was certainly filled to capacity after the 2007 season, as the consensus All-American and Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year earned several prestigious awards.

Despite constant double- and triple-team coverage, along with late season knee and back problems, Dorsey continued to dominate. He extended his string of at least one tackle made in his last 30 games, and walked away with the 2007 Nagurski Award, Lombardi Award, Outland Trophy and Lott Award, becoming the first player in school history to earn any of those postseason honors.

Dorsey attended East Ascension High School, where he was rated among the nation's top defensive linemen and one of the top three prospects in Louisiana. He was named a Parade All-American and rated the second-best prospect in Louisiana by Rivals.com. The Fox Sports Network South's Countdown to Signing Day "All-South" first-team choice was also a member of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100, Baton Rouge Advocate Super Dozen and New Orleans Times-Picayune's Top 20 Blue-Chip lists.

The senior defensive lineman was also named Louisiana's Class 4A Defensive Player of the Year and was a first-team Class 4A All-State pick. Despite being sidelined for three games with an ankle injury, Dorsey registered 43 tackles (16 for losses), two sacks and a forced fumble as a senior. He had a stellar junior year, making more than 100 tackles (12 for losses) and a dozen sacks.

Dorsey enrolled at Louisiana State in 2004, appearing in 11 games, starting three times at left defensive tackle. He posted 18 tackles (6 solos) with two stops for losses and also recovered a fumble. He was listed second on the depth chart behind Claude Wroten at left tackle in 2005, starting vs. North Texas. He finished that campaign with 28 tackles (16 solos), three sacks and four stops behind the line of scrimmage.

Dorsey took over the middle of the field for the Tigers, earning first-team All-American and All-Southeastern Conference honors in 2006. He started all 13 games, lining up at left tackle for four contests and had nine other starts on the right side. He totaled 64 tackles (22 solos) with three sacks and 8.5 stops for losses.

The junior seriously considered entering the 2007 NFL Draft, but decided to return to the university for his senior year, citing "unfinished business."

Even with the injuries in 2007, which began in fall camp with a sore hamstring, Dorsey was a battler throughout his final season. He ranked third on the team with 69 tackles (39 solos) and finished second on the squad with seven sacks and 12.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He also caused a fumble and deflected three passes.

In 51 games at Louisiana State, Dorsey started 30 times (21 at left tackle, nine at right tackle). He collected 179 tackles (83 solos) with 13.0 sacks for minus 93 yards, 27 stops for losses of 123 yards and seven quarterback pressures. He caused and recovered a fumble and also deflected four passes.

Career Notes

First player in school history to win the Nagurski Award, Lombardi Award, Outland Trophy and Lott Award, accomplishing that feat all in one season (2007)...Continued the school tradition of at least one defensive lineman earning first-team All-American honors since the 2000 season...Ranks 11th in school history with 27 tackles behind the line of scrimmage...His seven sacks in 2007 rank 10th on the school's season-record list.

High School

Attended East Ascension (Gonzalez, La.) High School, playing football for head coach Billy Beasley...Rated among the nation's top defensive linemen and one of the top three prospects in Louisiana...Named a Parade All-American and rated the second-best prospect in Louisiana by Rivals.com...The Fox Sports Network South's Countdown to Signing Day "All-South" first-team choice was also a member of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100, Baton Rouge Advocate Super Dozen and New Orleans Times-Picayune's Top 20 Blue-Chip lists...The senior defensive lineman was also named Louisiana's Class 4A Defensive Player of the Year and was a first-team Class 4A All-State pick...Despite being sidelined for three games with an ankle injury, Dorsey registered 43 tackles (16 for losses), two sacks and a forced fumble as a senior...Had a stellar junior year, making more than 100 tackles (12 for losses) and a dozen sacks.

[Aeyjay]

Can't believe we passed on Dorsey!  

The best player at our biggest need missed, crazy luxury pick of RB

when I've calmed down McFadden will warm to me but right now AAARGGGHHH!!!!!

[R8RMR]

You got that right!

[Gazzara]

you wouldn't believe the sweraing that came out of my mouth in front of my daughter.  I do not swear in front of my daughter, that's how passionate I feel about this.

[R8RMR]

6 - New York Jets - Vernon Ghoulston (DE Ohio State)



Overview
Vernon Gholston is a remarkable talent, but he's only just begun realizing his vast potential.

He never picked up a football until his sophomore year in high school and had just one season of defensive experience as a linebacker before being converted to defensive end when he arrived at Ohio State.

Blessed with incredible speed (clocked at 4.56 in the 40-yard dash), long limbs and superb strength, Gholston is the prototype pass rusher that professional teams look for -- big, fast, strong and explosive. An avid performer in the weight room, he boasted the best bench press on the team at 455 pounds. He also put on an impressive performance for teammates, squatting 405 pounds 20 times.

How Gholston was lured into football will one day make a nice story, if he becomes the legendary pass rusher many personnel experts are predicting. Walking in the halls of Cass Technical High School, football coach Thomas Wilcher spotted the 14-year-old strapping youngster, who stood 6-3, 240 pounds at the time. He convinced the player to join the football team.

Gholston was too big to play in Detroit's Police Athletic League and the elementary public schools did not offer an organized football program. From the first time he ever stepped on the field, the coaching staff knew they had a natural talent.

As a sophomore at Cass Tech, Gholston was first tried at linebacker, but he was overwhelmed by the plays he needed to know to play that position. One of the offensive coaches "stole" the youngster away from the defensive squad and had him play offensive guard as a sophomore. His junior campaign was limited by ankle sprains, which forced him to stay on the offensive line and scrap plans to also play linebacker.

By his senior season, he had already earned All-State honors as an offensive lineman and gained experience playing linebacker for the first time in his career. In just one season on defense, he was regarded as one of the best linebackers in the Midwest region. He would go on to record 75 tackles with six sacks in his final season, as Rivals.com rated him the 11th-best defensive end prospect in the nation and the 12th-best overall prospect in the state of Michigan.

Gholston enrolled at Ohio State, becoming the only player from Michigan on the squad. He turned down scholarship offers from Michigan, Michigan State and Iowa to join the Buckeyes. The coaching staff immediately began giving him a crash course in playing the "Leo" position, which incorporates dropping into pass coverage and rushing the passer from either side of the field.

He mentored under Mike Kudla his first year with the team, appearing in six games as a true freshman in 2004, but did not record a tackle. In 2005, a broken hand suffered in the second game vs. Texas earned Gholston a medical hardship. He had one tackle in that game and spent the rest of the year on the sideline.

Gholston used that time wisely in the weight room, bulking up from 238 to 264 pounds, as he took over "Leo" duties in 2006. He garnered All-Big Ten Conference second-team honors, as he ranked fourth in the league with 15 stops for losses of 86 yards and was fifth in the Big Ten with 8.5 sacks. He added a quarterback pressure with two pass breakups and an interception. He also finished sixth on the squad with 49 tackles (21 solo).

In 2007, Gholston earned All-American recognition and was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award, given to the nation's top defensive end. He posted 37 tackles (25 solo) and was a terror in the backfield, ranking eighth in the nation with 15.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage and second nationally with 14 sacks. He also scooped up a fumble and returned it for a 25-yard touchdown.

In 34 games at Ohio State, Gholston started 25 times. He registered 87 tackles (47 solo) with 22.5 sacks for minus-184 yards and 30.5 stops for losses of 199 yards. He had two pass deflections and an eight-yard interception return, as he also recovered a fumble that he returned 25 yards for a touchdown.


Career Notes
Gholston's 22.5 quarterback sacks rank fifth in school history behind Mike Vrabel (36, 1993-96), Jason Simmons (27.5, 1990-93), Matt Finkes (25, 1993-96) and Eric Kumerow (25, 1984-87)...His 184 yards in losses on those 23 sacks are topped only by Mike Vrabel (minus-245 yards) and Jason Simmons (210)...His 8.5 sacks in 2006 tied Darrion Scott (2002) for 12th on OSU's season-record list while his 14 sacks in 2007 broke the old school record of 13 by Mike Vrabel in 1995...Those 14 sacks resulted in losses of 111 yards, topping Vrabel's previous school record of minus-101 yards in 1995...His four sacks vs. Wisconsin in 2007 tied the school record first set by Jason Simmons vs. Washington State in 1991 and matched by Bobby Carpenter vs. Michigan State in 2005...His 32 yards in losses on those four sacks vs. Wisconsin tied the OSU game-record that was first set by Byron Lee vs. Indiana in 1984...Gholston's 15 stops behind the line of scrimmage in 2006 tied Matt Wilhelm (2000), Brent Johnson (2000), Na'il Diggs (1999) and Eric Kumerow (1987) for 14th on the school's single-season record list, while his 15.5 stops for losses in 2007 rank 13th...His 113 lost yards on his 15.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage in 2007 rank second on the Buckeyes' annual record list behind Mike Vrabel's 133 yards in 1995...His career total of minus-199 yards on 30.5 stops behind the line rank fifth in school history, topped by Mike Vrabel (349 yards, 1993-96), Jason Simmons (308, 1990-93), Matt Finkes (265, 1993-96) and Eric Kumerow (211, 1984-87)...His four stops for losses vs. both Wisconsin and Michigan in 2007 rank fourth on the school game-record list behind Andy Katzenmoyer (5 vs. Arizona State in 1996), Jayson Gwinn (5 vs. Indiana in 1993) and Judah Herman (5 vs. Iowa in 1991).


High School
Attended Cass Technical (Detroit, Mich.) High School, playing football for head coach Thomas Wilcher...As a sophomore, Gholston was first tried at linebacker, but was later moved to offensive guard...Limited to offensive line duties as a junior, as he was hampered by a pair of ankle sprains...Earned All-State honors as an offensive lineman and also got to experience playing linebacker for the first time in his career as a senior...In just one season on defense, he was regarded as one of the best linebackers in the Midwest region....Recorded 75 tackles with six sacks in his final season, as Rivals.com rated him the 11th-best defensive end prospect in the nation and the 12th-best overall prospect in the state of Michigan.