2008 NFL Draft as it happens Round 2

[R8RMR]

1(32) - Miami Dolphins - Phillip Merling (DE, Clemson)



Overview
A well-traveled prep standout, Phillip Merling returned home several years ago, enrolling at Clemson, where he spent the last three years being coached by his uncle, Chris Rumpf.

Rumpf was the Tigers' defensive line coach. Merling had great success playing for his uncle earlier in his football career, as both were together at Calhoun County High School, before Merling entered the collegiate ranks.

Merling developed into one of the elite rush ends in the college ranks. That made it surprising when he opted to bypass his senior year to play in the National Football League in 2008, as the staff tried valiantly to convince him that another year of college would only enhance his draft stock.

Merling began his prep career playing football for three seasons under head coach Chris Rumpf at Calhoun County High School in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. He earned Defensive MVP honors as a junior. He also excelled in basketball, receiving All-Conference, All-Region, and All-Area in hoops as a sophomore and junior. He averaged 20 points and 12 rebounds on the hardwood as a senior and averaged 15 points and 13 rebounds as a junior.

For his senior prep campaign, Merling transferred to Cordova High School in Memphis, Tennessee. The tight end/defensive end had 20 catches for 430 yards and four scores that season, adding 34 tackles and four sacks. He played in the Tennessee/Kentucky All-Star game, earning first-team All-State and All-Region accolades. He was also an All-Dixie team pick by Super Prep and an All-Atlantic Region choice by Prep Star.

To improve his academic standing, Merling enrolled at Fork Union Military Academy in 2004. He earned team MVP honors after catching 38 passes for 647 yards and five touch-downs, adding five sacks, 51 tackles, and eight pass break-ups. He was rated the 18th-best tight end in the nation according to Super Prep and No. 20 tight end by Scout.com. He was ranked as the No. 25 prep player in the nation by Rivals.com.

Merling enrolled at Clemson in 2005, spurning scholarship offers from Arkansas, South Carolina, Kentucky and Memphis. He played behind All-American defensive end Gaines Adams, appearing in 271 plays over 12 games. He made 22 tackles (17 solo) with two sacks, four stops for losses and four quarterback pressures, earning Rivals.com Freshman All-American second-team honors.

Merling moved into the starting lineup at left defensive end in 2006. He generated 20 QB pressures to go along with 46 tackles (31 solo) while taking 515 snaps for a team that ranked 13th in the nation in total defense (280.77 yards per game). He got to the quarterback on three sacks and tallied 10 stops for losses while causing a fumble and deflecting four passes.

Merling earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention in 2007, as he ranked tied for fifth in the league with 17 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He produced 78 tackles (51 solo) with 21 pressures and seven sacks while starting all 13 games. He caused two fumbles and recovered another, helping the Tigers rank ninth in the nation in total defense (306.77 yards per game) and 10th in scoring defense (18.69 points per game).


Career Notes
Merling appeared in 38 games at Clemson, starting his final 26 contests. He delivered 146 tackles (99 solos) with 12 sacks for minus-80 yards, 31 stops for losses totaling 152 yards and 45 quarterback pressures...Added four forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and seven pass deflections while participating in 1,374 snaps....Earned ACC Player of the Week honors three times in 2007, the most selections for a Tiger defensive lineman since James Robinson won it four times in 1983.


High School
Attended Cordova (Memphis, Tenn.) High School as a senior...The tight end/defensive end had 20 catches for 430 yards and four scores that season, adding 34 tackles and four sacks...Played in the Tennessee/Kentucky All-Star game, earning first-team All-State and All-Region accolades...All-Dixie team pick by Super Prep and an All-Atlantic Region choice by Prep Star...Began his prep career playing football for three seasons under head coach Chris Rumpf at Calhoun County High School in Saint Matthews, South Carolina... Earned Defensive MVP honors as a junior on the gridiron and also excelled in basketball at that school, receiving All-Conference, All-Region, and All-Area in hoops as a sophomore and junior...Averaged 20 points and 12 rebounds on the hardwood as a senior and averaged 15 points and 13 rebounds as a junior.

[Gazzara]

2(33) - St Louis Rams - Donnie Avery (WR, Houston)



Overview

Blessed with incredible speed, Donnie Avery is difficult for cornerbacks to catch once he reaches a clearing.

Avery, clocked at 4.2 seconds in the 40-yard dash, put his quickness to good use during a breakout performance in 2007. He led Conference USA and ranked fourth in the nation with an average of 112 receiving yards per game, while his averaged of seven catches per contest also led the league and ranked 14th nationally.

In addition, he shattered school and conference records during his final campaign with 346 yards receiving in the Rice contest, becoming the first player in C-USA annals to gain over 300 yards receiving in a game. His 427 all-purpose yards in that game also set new league and Houston records, topping his own record set two weeks earlier with 350 yards vs. East Carolina.

At Hastings High School, Avery was a unanimous first-team All-District selection as both a wide receiver and return specialist during his final season. He helped lead the team to the district championship and an 11-3 record, hauling in 36 passes for 502 yards and two touchdowns to lead the District 19-5A receivers in 2002. He also returned 13 punts for 399 yards and three scores, as well as seven kickoffs for 345 yards and one touchdown, in addition to rushing 16 times for 175 yards and two scores.

Avery turned down scholarship offers from Kansas State, Tennessee, Texas Christian, New Mexico and Kansas when he decided to enroll at Houston in 2003. He competed on the scout team that year, moving into the starting lineup for all 11 games in 2004.

He finished fourth on the team with 18 receptions for 293 yards (16.3-yard average) and two scores, adding 343 yards on 18 kickoff returns (19.1 avg). He also returned three punts for 28 yards (9.3 avg) and registered seven tackles (four solo) with a stop for a two-yard loss. For his efforts, he was selected to the Freshman All-Conference USA squad.

As a sophomore, Avery started eight of 12 contests. He ranked third on the team with 44 receptions and second with 688 yards (15.6-yard average), including five touchdowns. He also produced five solo tackles. Eight of his catches were for 20 yards or longer.

In 2006, Avery appeared in 14 contests, earning 12 starts. He ranked second on the Cougars with 57 catches for 852 yards (14.9-yard average) and five touchdowns, as 12 of those grabs were for gains of at least 20 yards. He totaled 113 yards on six kickoff returns (18.8 avg) and amassed 965 all-purpose yards.

Avery earned All-American second-team honors as an all-purpose back from The NFL Draft Report. He was a consensus All-Conference USA first-team choice as a receiver and second-team pick on special teams. He paced the Cougars with a career-high 91 catches for 1,456 yards (16.0 avg) and seven touchdowns. Seventeen of his catches were for at least 20 yards, as he also returned 15 kickoffs for 424 yards (28.3 avg) and a score. He recorded two solo tackles and generated 1,880 all-purpose yards.

Avery started 42 of 50 games at Houston. He became the third player in school history to gain over 3,000 yards receiving, as he caught 210 passes for 3,289 yards (15.7-yard average) and 19 touchdowns. He had 41 catches for 20 yards or longer and returned 40 kickoffs for 896 yards (22.4-yard average), including one score. He added 28 yards on three punt returns (9.3 avg) and recorded 14 tackles (11 solo) with a stop for a two-yard loss. He amassed 4,213 all-purpose yards, an average of 84.26 yards per game.

Career Notes

Became the fifth player in school history to amass over 4,000 all-purpose yards (4,213) in a career, joining Ketric Sanford (5,817: 1996-99), Chuck Weatherspoon (5,715: 1987-90), Vincent Marshall (4,762: 2003-06) and Brandon Middleton (4,104: 1999-2003)...His 4,213 yards rank eighth overall in Conference USA history and third among wide receivers, topped only by Arnold Jackson of Louisville (4,915: 1997-2000) and Zek Parker of Louisville (4,459: 1998-2001)...Ranks fourth in Houston history with 210 receptions, surpassed by Vincent Marshall (272, 2003-06), Orlando Iglesias (222, 1997-2001) and Manny Hazard (220, 1989-90)...His 210 catches rank seventh on the Conference USA career list behind Arnold Jackson of Louisville (300, 1997-2000), Vincent Marshall, JaJuan Dawson of Tulane (236, 1996-98), Orlando Iglesias, Ibn Green of Louisville (217, 1996-99) and Roydell Williams of Tulane (215, 2000-04)...Avery gained 3,289 yards receiving, joining Vincent Marshall (3,770) and Elmo Wright (3,347; 1968-70) as the only players in school history to gain over 3,000 yards receiving in a career...His 3,289 yards placed him third in Conference USA annals behind Vincent Marshall and Arnold Jackson of Louisville (3,670: 1997-2000)...His 19 touchdown catches rank sixth in UH history, topped by Elmo Wright (34, 1968-70), Manny Hazard (31, 1989-90), Vincent Marshall (26, 2003-06), Brandon Middleton (24, 1999-2003) and Ken Hebert (22, 1965-67)...Avery's average of 112.0 yards receiving per game in 2007 rank second on the league season-record chart behind Roddy White of Alabama-Birmingham (121.0 yards per game, 2004)...Amassed 1,880 all-purpose yards in 2007, the fourth best season total in Houston annals, topped by Chuck Weatherspoon (2,391 in 1989 and 2,038 in 1990) and Robert Newhouse (1,988 in 1971)...His 1,456 yards receiving in 2007 are topped only by Manny Hazard (1,689 in 1989) on the school's single-season chart...His 1,456 yards also set a Conference USA record, topping the old mark of 1,452 yards by Roddy White of Alabama-Birmingham in 2004...His 91 receptions in 2007 rank seventh on the Cougars' season-record list and only Arnold Jackson of Louisville (101 in 1999) and JaJuan Dawson of Tulane (94 in 1999) had more receptions in a season in Conference USA annals...His kickoff return average of 28.26 yards in 2007 rank third in Houston's annual record books behind Claude King (29.1 average in 1958) and Mike Smith (29.1-yard average in 1998)...His 13 catches vs. Rice in 2007 were the most by a Conference USA receiver since Brian Robinson of Houston caught 15 balls in the 2000 Army clash...Avery's 346 yards receiving vs. Rice in 2007 broke the old league game-record of 260 yards by Kendrick Lee of Southern Mississippi vs. Houston in 1996 and broke the old school record of 262 yards by Elmo Wright vs. Wyoming in 1969...His 346 yards rank third in NCAA Subdivision history behind Troy Edwards of Louisiana Tech (405 vs. Nebraska in 1998) and Randy Gatewood of Nevada-Las Vegas (363 vs. Idaho in 1994)...Avery's 427 all-purpose yards in the 2007 Rice game broke the league game record he set two weeks earlier vs. East Carolina (350), both topping the old Conference USA record of 347 yards by Cory Rodgers of Texas Christian vs. Louisville in 2004...His 427 yards rank fifth on the NCAA list to 578 Emmett White of Utah State (578 vs. New Mexico State in 2000), Reggie Bush of Southern California (513 vs. Fresno State in 2005), Brian Pruitt of Central Michigan (435 vs. Toledo in 1994) and Moe Williams of Kentucky (429 vs. South Carolina in 1995)...His 100-yard kickoff return vs. East Carolina in 2007 tied Ricky Wilson of Houston (vs. Louisville in 2003), Fred Smith of Tulane (vs. Texas Christian in 2003) and Broderick Clark of Louisville (vs. Kentucky in 2002) for the longest kickoff return in Conference USA history.

High School

Attended Hastings (Alief, Tex.) High School, playing football for head coach Bobby Stuart...Unanimous first-team All-District selection as both a wide receiver and return specialist during his final season...Helped lead the team to the district championship and an 11-3 record that year...Hauled in 36 passes for 502 yards and two touchdowns to lead the District 19-5A receivers in 2002...Also returned 13 punts for 399 yards and three scores, as well as seven kickoffs for 345 yards and one touchdown, in addition to rushing 16 times for 175 yards and two scores.

[R8RMR]

3(34) - Washington Redskins (from Oakland through Atlanta) - Devin Thomas (WR, Michigan State)



Overview
Pound-for-pound, Thomas is one of the strongest receivers in college football. A well-built athlete with massive upper body muscle tone, Thomas not only has the strength to power through arm tackles, but also displays blazing quickness. He succeeded in a variety of roles for the Wolverines since the arrival of new head coach Mark Dantonio, who unearthed the junior's talents in 2007.

After a promising freshman campaign at Coffeyville Community College, Thomas saw minimal opportunities to touch the ball as a sophomore at Michigan State. Once Dantonio arrived on campus, the coach quickly got to work on devising ways to use his receiver.

By the end of his junior campaign, Thomas not only set a school single-season record with 79 receptions and ranked second in the Big Ten Conference with 1,260 yards, but he also paced the league while ranking 11th in the nation with a 29.1-yard kickoff return average. He averaged 6.6 yards on 27 carries, finishing sixth in the NCAA ranks with an average of 199.23 all-purpose yards per game.

Thomas began his well-traveled football career at Huron (Ann Arbor, Mich.) High School. He transferred to Canton (Mich.) High as a junior, where he earned Detroit Free Press All-State (Division 1) honors in 2003. The second-team All-Metro choice by The Detroit News was also named to The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press All-West teams in 2003.

That season, Thomas intercepted six passes, returning one 54 yards for a touchdown vs. Livonia Churchill. He accounted for more than 1,000 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns, as he rushed for nearly 600 yards and had 17 receptions for 440 yards (25.9 avg).

Thomas enrolled at Coffeyville Community College, where he redshirted in 2004. In 2005, he ranked among the nation's top 20 junior college prospects, according to Rivals.com (No. 15) and Fab50recruiting.com. He earned second-team All-Jayhawk Conference honors as the led the Red Ravens in receptions with 33 for 674 yards (20.4 avg) and five touchdowns, finishing seventh in receiving yards in the NJCAA Region VI ranks (61.3 ypg).

Thomas totaled 1,161 all-purpose yards that year, ranking 10th in the region with an average of 105.5 yards per game. He returned 15 kickoffs for 339 yards (22.6 avg), adding three punt returns for 92 yards (30.7 avg), as he also gained 56 yards on five rushes (11.2 avg).

In 2006, Thomas enrolled at Michigan State. He appeared in 10 games, but managed only six receptions for 90 yards (15.0 avg) and one touchdown. He also blocked a punt that he recovered for a 17-yard return vs. Northwestern.

The second-team All-Big Ten Conference choice set the school single-season record with 79 receptions in 2007. He started all 13 games at flanker, as his 1,260 yards receiving rank third on MSU's annual record list. He had eight touchdown grabs, rushed 27 times for 177 yards (6.6 avg) and averaged 2.6 yards on seven punt returns. He attempted one pass and set a Big Ten single-season record with 1,135 yards on 39 kickoff returns (29.1 avg), as his 2,590 all-purpose yards set a school record.

After his junior year, Thomas decided to leave MSU and applied for the 2008 NFL Draft.

"It's a done deal," his father, Dwight Thomas, said in an interview with the Associated Press. "Coming off the season he had and looking at the senior corps of receivers, we felt like it was a prime opportunity for him to enter the NFL."

The elder Thomas said Dantonio was disappointed when informed of the decision. "He tried to point out some reasons why he should stay for his senior year," Dwight Thomas said. "I have a lot of respect for the man and appreciate what he's done for my son, but we just felt like this was the time for him to play in the NFL."

"We took some positive steps forward, looking to re-establish our program," Dantonio said. "In one aspect, I feel like a failure as a coach because I didn't keep the team together. But on the other end of things, I feel like a success because he had a great year so he had that opportunity. We wish him the best."

In 23 games at Michigan State, Devin Thomas started 14 contests. He hauled in 85 passes for 1,350 yards (15.9 avg) and nine touchdowns. He also amassed 2,697 all-purpose yards. Including his time at Coffeyville College, he finished his college career with 118 catches for 2,024 yards (17.2 avg) and 14 scores. He rushed 32 times for 233 yards (7.3 avg) and totaled 127 yards on 11 punt returns (11.5 avg). He returned 54 kickoffs for 1,474 yards (27.3 avg) and piled up 3,858 all-purpose yards.


Career Notes
Thomas's 79 receptions in 2007 broke the previous school record of 68 catches by Charles Rogers in 2002...His 1,260 yards receiving in 2007 rank behind Rogers 1,470 in 2001 and 1,351 in 2002) on MSU's single-season record list...His eight touchdown catches in 2007 tied Plaxico Burress (1998), Andre Rison (1988) and Bob Carey (1949) for fourth on the school single-season record chart, topped by Rogers (14 in 2001 and 13 in 2002) and Burress' 12 in 1999...His 13 receptions vs. Indiana in 2007 tied Burress (vs. Florida in 2000) for second on MSU's game-record chart behind Matt Trannon's 14 grabs vs. Eastern Michigan in 2006...His three touchdown receptions vs. Penn State in 2007 tied the school game record that is held by Burress (vs. Florida in 2000, Northwestern in 1999 and Iowa in 1999), Rison (vs. Georgia in 1989), Mark Ingram (vs. lowa in 1986) and Gene Washington (vs. Indiana in 1965)...His 1,135 yards on kickoff returns in 2007 broke the old school single-season record of 966 yards by Derrick Mason in 1994 and also topped the previous Big Ten record of 994 yards by Earl Douthitt of Iowa in 1973...Only Douthitt (43 in 1973) had more kickoff returns in a season than Thomas' 39 (2007) in Big Ten annals...His 2,590 all-purpose yards shattered the old Michigan State annual record of 2,094 yards by Lorenzo White in 1985...Only Larry Johnson of Penn State (2,655 yards in 2002) gained more all-purpose yards in a season among Big Ten Conference players... Gained an 100 yards receiving in seven games during 2007, setting a new school single-season record, topping the old mark of six, set by Rogers during both the 2001 and 2002 seasons.


Junior College
Ranked among the nation's top 20 JUCO prospects by Rivals.com (No. 15) and Fab50recruiting.com . . . earned second-team All- Jayhawk Conference honors in 2005 . . . played for Coach Jeff Leiker at Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College where he helped the R


High School
Attended Canton (Mich.) High School as a junior and senior, playing football for head coach Tim Baechler...Thomas began his football career at Huron (Ann Arbor, Mich.) High School as a freshman and sophomore...At Canton High, he earned Detroit Free Press All-State (Division 1) honors in 2003...The second-team All-Metro choice by The Detroit News was also named to The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press All-West teams in 2003...That season, Thomas intercepted six passes, returning one 54 yards for a touchdown vs. Livonia Churchill...Accounted for more than 1,000 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns that year, as he rushed for nearly 600 yards and had 17 receptions for 440 yards (25.9 avg).

[Gazzara]

4(35) - Kansas City Chiefs - Brandon Flowers (CB, Virginia Tech)



Overview

Brandon Flowers developed into one of the elite cornerbacks in college football. He's also regarded as one of the hardest hitters at his position.

A student of the game who spends plenty of time in the film room and is effective in both man and zone coverage.

Flowers' size makes it difficult to believe the impact he puts behind his tackles. He has studied NFL cornerbacks to learn how passing teams attack a secondary.

Last offseason, while reviewing his own game film, Flowers noticed that he looked into the backfield too often before the wide receiver he was assigned to made a cut. Flowers improved his hip rotation and now plants his back foot when a receiver makes a break.

For Flowers, 2007 turned into another All-American campaign. Despite opposing quarterbacks making a determined effort to stay away from Flowers' territory, he still managed to intercept five passes and deflect nine others. His ability to anticipate the quarterback and get a jump on the route saw the boundary cornerback finish his career with 10 interceptions and 32 pass breakups.

At Atlantic High School, Flowers helped his team to a regional title in Class 5A his senior year, beating highly rated Ely High. He intercepted five passes and posted three sacks, as he also blocked a punt and recovered a pair of fumbles. For that performance, he earned first-team All-Area and All-Conference honors. Atlantic High would compile a 36-4 record during his varsity career.

Flowers attended Hargrave Military Academy to improve his academics. He was rated the 18th-best junior college or prep cornerback in the nation by College Football News, as he intercepted three passes as a cornerback.

He enrolled at Virginia Tech in 2004. He did not play in the season opener vs. Southern California, but made a spectacular interception for a 38-yard return the following week vs. Western Michigan. He suffered a fractured right fibula later in the contest and missed the rest of the season.

Flowers returned to action in 2005, starting vs. Marshall while spending the rest of the year behind Jimmy Williams at boundary cornerback. He posted 20 tackles (13 solo) with four pass deflections, 1 1/2 stops behind the line of scrimmage and an interception.

In 2006, Flowers took over the boundary cornerback spot, going on to start his final 27 games with the Hokies. He earned All-American second-team and All-Atlantic Coast Conference first-team honors, leading the league with 21 passes defended, breaking up 18 throws and picking off three others. He totaled 51 tackles (29 solo) with 3.5 sacks and 7.5 stops for losses. He also caused a fumble and did not allow an opponent to catch any passes in three games.

As a junior, Flowers again received All-American and All-ACC recognition. Most quarterbacks steered clear of his area, but Flowers intercepted five passes and broke up nine others in 14 games. He ranked third on the team with 86 tackles (56 solo), including a very impressive eight stops behind the line of scrimmage in 2007.

In 41 games at Virginia Tech, Flowers started 28 contests at boundary cornerback, making 158 tackles (99 solo) with 3.5 sacks for minus-28 yards, 17 stops for losses of 71 yards and six quarterback pressures. He caused and recovered a fumble, deflected 32 passes and intercepted ten others for 172 yards in returns and two touchdowns.

Career Notes

Flowers' 172 yards on interception returns rank eighth on the school's career list...His 10 interceptions rank tied for 11th on Tech's all-time list and are the most by a Hokie since Willie Pile (14, 1999-2002)...His five interceptions in 2007 were the most by a Tech player since Pile had six thefts in 2000...His 93 return yards on his 2007 interceptions are the most by a VT player since Eric Green amassed 166 yards in 2003...His 17 tackles behind the line of scrimmage are the most on record for a Tech defensive back, which dates to 1985.

High School

Attended Atlantic (Delray Beach, Fla.) High School, playing football for head coach Chris Bean...Helped his team to a regional title in Class 5A his senior year, beating highly rated Ely High...Intercepted five passes and posted three quarterback sacks, as he also blocked a punt and recovered a pair of fumbles that year...For that performance, he earned first-team All-Area and All-Conference honors...Atlantic High would compile a 36-4 record during his varsity career.

[R8RMR]

5(36) - Green Bay Packers (from Jets) - Jordy Nelson (WR, Kansas State)



Overview

From a former walk-on struggling to get on the field at strong safety to one of the premier receivers in the collegiate ranks, Nelson has come a long way since his days at Riley County High School. His banner senior campaign saw him shatter school and Big 12 Conference reception records, as he was weekly highlight film who caught at least 10 passes in six contests during 2007.

For his stellar performances, Nelson became just the ninth player in school history to be named a consensus All-American in his final year, becoming the first KSU player to accomplish that feat since Terence Newman in 2002. He will leave Kansas State holding 11 different receiving records.

Nelson lettered three times as a quarterback and defensive back at Riley County High School. He was named first-team Class 3A All-State at quarterback by the Topeka Capital-Journal and was a second-team All-State selection for all divisions at quarterback and defensive back. He was chosen Flint Hills Player of the Year by the Manhattan Mercury and was a two-time All-Mid-East League first-team pick. He also played in the 2003 Kansas Shrine Bowl.

As a senior, Nelson connected on 62 percent of his passes for 1,029 yards and eight touchdowns. He rushed for 1,572 yards (9.8 avg) and scored 25 times on the ground that year. In his junior campaign, he passed for 1,045 yards and rushed for 730 yards and 16 touchdowns.

Nelson also lettered and started in basketball and track. He averaged 17.2 points on 58 percent shooting as a senior and set school career records for blocks (161), steals (225) and assists (325). He was named first-team All-State and the Manhattan Mercury's Flint Hills Player of the Year. He won the Class 3A track titles in the 100, 200 and 400 meters and long jump at the 2003 state meet, and set division records in the 100 meters (10.63) and 200 meters (21.64).

Despite his impressive prep career, Nelson walked on at Kansas State in 2003. He competed on the scout team at strong safety over the next two years, but never got on the playing field. With the KSU receiving unit depleted by graduation, Nelson asked to move to that unit in 2005.

He was a second-team All-Big 12 Conference choice that year, leading the team with 45 receptions for 669 yards (14.9 avg.) and eight touchdowns, adding another score by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone for a score vs. Texas A&M. During the season, he became the first player in school history to catch at least one touchdown in each of his first seven games.

A nagging left knee posterior cruciate ligament forced Nelson to miss quite a bit of early season practice time in 2006. He started nine of 13 games, managing to lead the squad with 39 catches for 547 yards (14.0 avg.), but just one touchdown. He also got to see some time at quarterback, completing one of two passes for 28 yards.

The consensus All-American shattered school and Big 12 Conference season records in 2007, hauling in 122 passes for 1,606 yards (13.2 avg.) and 11 touchdowns. He scored twice on five punt returns for 264 yards (52.8 avg.) and registered a school record 140 points. He hit on 2-of-4 passes for 45 yards and a pair of touchdowns, finishing with 1,863 all-purpose yards, an average of 155.25 per game.

In 36 games at Kansas State, Nelson started 32 contests. He ranks second in school history with 206 receptions for 2,822 yards (13.7 avg.) and is third in KSU annals with 20 touchdown grabs. He returned six punts for 267 yards (44.5 avg.) and three scores, as he also completed 3-of-6 passes for 73 yards and two touchdowns, adding seven tackles (6 solos) on special teams. He finished with 3,080 all-purpose yards, an average off 85.56 per game.

Career Notes

Nelson ranks second in school history with 206 receptions, topped only by Kevin Lockett (217, 1993-96)...His 206 catches are good for ninth on the Big 12 Conference career record chart...His 2,822 yards receiving are surpassed only by Lockett's 3,032 on KSU's career record list and rank eighth in conference annals...Ranks third in Wildcats history with 20 touchdown catches, topped by Lockett (26) and Quincy Morgan (23, 1999-2000)...Nelson's 122 receptions in 2007 shattered the old school season record of 75 by Darnell McDonald in 1998 and the previous Big 12 mark of 107 grabs by Rashaun Woods of Oklahoma State in 2002...Gained 1,606 yards receiving in 2007, breaking the old school annual record of 1,232 yards by James Terry in 2003...His 1,606 yards rank second in Big 12 history behind Woods' 1,695 yards in 2002... His 11 touchdown catches in 2007 rank fourth on the KSU season record list, topped by Morgan (14 in 2000), Terry (13 in 2003) and Lockett (13 in 1995)...His 140 points scored in 2007 broke the previous school season record of 135 by Martin Gramatica in 1998...His 15 receptions vs. Missouri State, 14 catches vs. Iowa State and 15 grabs vs. Fresno State, all in 2007, topped the school's previous game record of 13 catches by Michael Smith vs. Missouri in 1989...Gained 209 yards receiving vs. Missouri State and 214 yards vs. Iowa State in 2007, breaking the previous KSU game record of 206 yards by McDonald vs. Syracuse in 1997...His three touchdown receptions in the 2007 Oklahoma State clash tied the school game record that he shares with Terry (vs. Baylor, 11/1/2003), Morgan (vs. Ball State, 9/16/2000), McDonald (vs. Syracuse, 12/31/97), Jimmy Dean (vs. Rice, 9/21/96), Smith (vs. Iowa State, 11/9/91) and John Williams (vs. Austin Peay, 9/5/87)...His 92-yard punt return vs. Baylor in 2007 was the fourth-longest punt return in school history, topped by Lamar Chapman (94 vs. Ohio University, 1997), Joe Searles (93 vs. Kentucky, 1961) and David Allen (93 vs. Texas, 1998).

High School

Attended Riley (Kan.) County High School, playing football for head coach Steve Wagner...

Lettered three times as a quarterback and defensive back...Named first-team Class 3A All-State at quarterback by the Topeka Capital-Journal and was a second-team All-State pick for all divisions at quarterback and defensive back...Chosen Flint Hills Player of the Year by the Manhattan Mercury and was a two-time All-Mid-East League first-team choice...Also played in the 2003 Kansas Shrine Bowl...As a senior, Nelson connected on 62 percent of his passes for 1,029 yards and eight touchdowns, rushed for 1,572 yards (9.8 avg) and scored 25 times on the ground that year...In his junior campaign, he passed for 1,045 yards and rushed for 730 yards and 16 touchdowns...Also lettered and started in basketball and track...Averaged 17.2 points on 58 percent shooting as a senior and set school career records for blocks (161), steals (225) and assists (325)...Named first-team All-State and the Manhattan Mercury's Flint Hills Player of the Year...Won the Class 3A track titles in the 100, 200, 400 and long jump at the 2003 state meet, and set division records in the 100 meters (10.63) and 200 meters (21.64).

[Gazzara]

6(37) - Atlanta Falcons - Curtis Lofton (LB, Oklahoma)



Overview

With many professional teams begging for speed at linebacker, Curtis Lofton entered the 2008 NFL Draft pool as junior knowing he has a chance to make a big splash.

A strong-side linebacker for most of his career, Lofton is just starting to tap his vast potential and may have found his calling at middle linebacker. He shifted inside for his final four games with the Sooners and finished his junior campaign with one of the most productive seasons by a defender, as his 157 total tackles are the most by an Oklahoma player since George Cumby amassed 160 hits in 1979.

At Kingfisher High School, Lofton was a standout inside linebacker who also competed at fullback. He was rated the eight-best middle linebacker in the nation by ESPN.com and the second-best overall player in the Midlands region by Super Prep and Scout.com, who also had him listed as the state of Oklahoma's second-ranked player. Rivals.com rated Lofton the fourth-best inside linebacker and 62nd-best prospect in the prep ranks.

A Parade first-team All-American as a senior, Lofton added Daily Oklahoman All-State and Oklahoma High School Coaches Association All-State first-team accolades. He lettered three times, leading the team in tackles with 168, adding eight sacks as a senior. In 2003, he collected 187 tackles and had 150 stops as a sophomore.

For his career, Lofton registered 505 tackles, leading the team to the Class 3A State Championship in 2003 and helped the squad advance to the semifinals in 2004, when he also rushed for 12 touchdowns. Nominated for the March of Dimes Oklahoma Headliners Banquet as one of the top scholar-athletes in the state of Oklahoma, he was a three-time Honor Roll student. He also competed for the basketball and track teams.

Lofton enrolled at Oklahoma in 2005, but was relegated mostly to special teams while seeing just a few snaps at middle linebacker. He had a two-yard kickoff return and had three solo tackles, including one behind the line of scrimmage.

In 2006, Lofton appeared in all 14 games, starting at strong-side linebacker in five games. He ranked ninth on the squad with 37 tackles (20 solo), including 4.5 stops for losses. He caused and recovered a fumble, adding a 14-yard kickoff return in the Fiesta Bowl vs. Boise State.

Lofton wrested a full-time starting job in 2007. He lined up at strong-side linebacker for the first 10 contests before shifting to the middle for the final five games. His career-high 157 tackles (94 solo) rank seventh on the school's single-season list and were the third-highest total in the NCAA ranks (his average of 11.21 tackles per game ranked seventh nationally).

Lofton also had a sack, 10.5 stops for losses and four forced fumbles. He recovered a fumble for a touchdown, scored once on three interceptions and deflected two passes. That performance earned him consensus All-American and All-Big Twelve Conference honors, in addition to being selected Big Twelve Defensive Player of the year by the Associated Press.

After the season, Lofton declared that he was entering the 2008 NFL Draft. Lofton said the atmosphere at Oklahoma readied him for the next step.

In 39 games at Oklahoma, Lofton started 19 times, including four starts at middle linebacker. He recorded 197 tackles (117 solo) with a two-yard sack and 16 stops for losses of 33 yards. He caused five fumbles and recovered two others, returning one 12 yards for a score. He gained 71 yards on three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown and batted down two other throws. He also gained 16 yards on a pair of onside kickoff returns.

Career Notes

Lofton's 157 tackles in 2007 tied Darryl Hunt (1978) for the seventh-best season total in school history, the most tackles by a Sooner since 1979...Ranks behind Jackie Shipp (189 in 1981), Daryl Hunt (177 in 1976 and 159 in 1977), Steve Aycock (175 in 1970) and George Cumby (160 in 1979) on the school's all-time tackles list...Recorded 18 tackles vs. Missouri during the 2007 regular season, the 12th-best game total in school history and the most by a Sooner in a contest since Lance Mitchell totaled 19 tackles vs. Missouri in 2002...His 157 tackles in 2007 were the most ever by a Sooner during head coach Bob Stoops' time at the university (1999-present)...Became the first Sooner to ever register at least 10 tackles in eight games during the same season.

High School

Attended Kingfisher (Okla.) High School, playing football for head coach Jeff Myers...Standout inside linebacker who also competed at fullback...Rated the eight-best middle linebacker in the nation by ESPN.com and the second-best overall player in the Midlands region by Super Prep and Scout.com, who also had him listed as the state of Oklahoma's second-ranked player overall...Rivals.com rated Lofton the fourth-best inside linebacker and 62nd-best prospect...Parade first-team All-American as a senior...Added Daily Oklahoman All-State and Oklahoma High School Coaches Association All-State first-team accolades...Lettered three times, leading the team in tackles with 168, adding eight sacks as a senior...In 2003, he collected 187 tackles and had 150 stops as a sophomore...For his career, Lofton registered 505 tackles, leading the team to the Class 3A State Championship in 2003 and helped the squad advance to the semifinals in 2004. He also rushed for 12 touchdowns that year...Nominated for the March of Dimes Oklahoma Headliners Banquet as one of the top scholar-athletes in the state of Oklahoma and was a three-time Honor Roll student...Also played basketball and participated on the track team.

[R8RMR]

7(38) - Seatle Seahawks (from Baltimore) - John Carlson (TE, Notre Dame)



Overview
Carlson developed into one of the elite tight ends in the country at Notre Dame, even though few people even knew of him when he arrived at the university as the "other tight end" in the 2003 recruiting class that featured Chicago Bears' 2007 first-round pick Greg Olsen. Olsen later transferred to Miami (Fla.), leaving Carlson to spend two years battling for playing time behind Anthony Fasano.

When Fasano opted to leave school early to join the Dallas Cowboys, Carlson finally got his chance to be a full-time starter. Over his last two seasons, he would grab 87 of his career 100 receptions, totaling 1,006 of the 1,093 yards he gained during his time with the Fighting Irish. He also found the end zone seven times during that span, as he scored eight career touchdowns.

At Litchfield High School, Carlson was ranked 19th on the Detroit Free-Press 20-player Best of the Midwest team and was also named to the 10-member Super Preps team by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. The four-year starter at tight end was a two-time All-State and three-time All-Conference selection, playing in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl after his senior season.

Carlson caught 41 passes for 471 yards and seven touchdowns as a senior in 2002, and made 79 tackles and two sacks at defensive end that year. For his career, he snared 95 passes for 1,331 yards and 23 touchdowns, adding 133 rushing attempts for 493 yards and seven scores, while also returning kicks. He scored 194 points and recorded 200 career tackles, including 96 solos.

In basketball, Carlson was a McDonald's preseason All-American as a senior and earned All-Conference and All-Area honors four straight seasons. He was the conference MVP as a junior and senior and played in the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association All-Star game. The starting center helped the team compile a 114-8 record during his career while winning the Minnesota Class 2A state title three times. He finished his prep career with 1,676 points, 974 rebounds and 412 assists.

Carlson also lettered in tennis, helping his team reach the state finals as a junior. He had a career record of 106-22 playing No. 1 doubles. The three-time All-Conference selection was a two-time participant in the individual state tennis tournament, earning four letters in the sport.

In 2003, Carlson spent his first season performing on the scout team at Notre Dame. He also appeared briefly in three games with the 2003-04 Irish basketball team, scoring two points on a pair of free throws and grabbing one defensive rebound. He was part of the rotation at tight end in 2004, starting two of 12 games, but saw most of his action on special teams. He recorded five tackles (four solo) on the coverage unit and made six catches for 31 yards (5.2-yard average).

Carlson was limited in 2005 preseason drills with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his left knee, but went on to start six of 12 games with Notre Dame utilizing a double-tight end formation. He managed to grab seven passes for 56 yards (8.0-yard average) and a score. On 263 special teams appearances, he registered 13 tackles (nine solo) and returned a kickoff 14 yards.

When Fasano turned pro, Carlson started 11 games during the 2006 season. He sat out the Army and Southern California contests after he suffered a right knee medial collateral ligament sprain vs. Air Force, but was still named a finalist for the John Mackey Award. The Sports Illustrated second-team All-American and ESPN Academic All-American pick snared a career-high 47 passes for 634 yards (13.5-yard average) and four touchdowns. He also registered four tackles (three solo) while participating with the special teams coverage units.

Carlson's senior year did not turn out as expected. Rated the best tight end in college, he was one of the few bright spots for a team that finished the season with a 3-9 record. He caught a pass in all 12 games, extending his consecutive reception string to 23 contests, as he led the Irish with 40 catches for 372 yards (9.3-yard average) and three touchdowns. He also recorded six tackles (four solo).

The coaching staff noticed during his senior year that Carlson was taking well to his captaincy role. "He's become much more vocal," head coach Charlie Weis said. "He's a quiet kid by nature. He still has the fire when he drops a pass in practice. But he's (filled) a vocal leadership void. All he wants to do is to do anything he can to give us the best chance of winning."

Selected to play in the 2008 Senior Bowl, Carlson was forced to miss the game after a mysterious flu-like virus sapped him of energy and almost 10 pounds during the week prior to the practices.

Carlson played in 47 games at Notre Dame, starting 31 contests. He finished his career with 100 receptions for 1,093 yards (10.9-yard average) and eight touchdowns. On special teams, he registered 28 tackles (20 solo) and returned one kickoff for 14 yards.


Career Notes
In 2006, Carlson became 49th Notre Dame football player and 181st student-athlete at the school to be named an ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-American...Ranks second in school history on the tight end record list with 100 receptions, topped only by Ken MacAfee (128, 1974-77)...His 47 catches in 2006 tied Anthony Fasano (2005) for second on the school's tight end records list, surpassed by Ken MacAfee (54 in 1977), while his 40 receptions in 2007 rank fifth on that chart behind Tony Hunter (42 in 1982).


High School
Attended Litchfield (Minn.) High School, playing football for head coach Jon Johnson...Ranked 19th on the Detroit Free-Press 20-player Best of the Midwest team and was also named to the 10-member Super Preps team by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune...The four-year starter at tight end was a two-time All-State and three-time All-Conference selection, playing in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl after his senior campaign...Caught 41 passes for 471 yards and seven touchdowns as a senior in 2002, as he also made 79 tackles and two sacks at defensive end that year...For his career, he snared 95 passes for 1,331 yards and 23 touchdowns, adding 133 rushing attempts for 493 yards and seven scores, while also returning kicks...Scored 194 points and recorded 200 career tackles, including 96 solos...Was coached in both basketball and tennis at Litchfield High by his father, John...In basketball, Carlson was a McDonald's preseason All-American as a senior and earned All-Conference and All-Area honors four-straight seasons...Conference MVP as a junior and senior and played in the Minnesota Basketball Coaches Association All-Star game...The starting center helped the team compile a 114-8 record during his career while winning the Minnesota Class 2A state title three times...Finished his prep career with 1,676 points, 974 rebounds and 412 assists...Helped the tennis team reach the state finals as a junior. He had a career record of 106-22 playing No. 1 doubles...Three-time All-Conference selection and a two-time participant in the individual state tennis tournament, earning four letters in the sport...Member of the National Honor Society.

[Gazzara]

8(39) - San Francisco 49'ers - Chilo Rachal (OG, USC)



Overview

A highly decorated offensive tackle coming out of high school, Chilo Rachal would be the first to tell you that 21 games as a starter in three years at Southern California is not much of a resume for professional teams to evaluate.

Family issues forced the junior to enter the 2008 NFL Draft, despite urging from the USC coaching staff to return for one more season. Rachal's mother was diagnosed with a stomach tumor and is still awaiting insurance approval for treatment, necessitating Rachal's decision to jump to the NFL.

Head coach Pete Carroll said Rachal informed him that he would make himself available for the NFL draft. Carroll was disappointed he did not consult him before making his decision. Rachal did not apply for a pre-draft evaluation, knowing he was planning to turn pro regardless of their evaluation.

At Dominguez High School, Rachal earned 2003 Super Prep and Prep Star All-American honors. He was a member of the Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West honor-able mention, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 second- team and All-CIF Southern Section first-team squads.

The All-CIF Division III, Los Angeles Times All-Southeast/South Coast Lineman of the Year added Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream Team first-team and All-Conference honors as a senior offensive lineman, despite playing in only four games due to a knee injury. He was rated the 12th-best offensive tackle in the country, ranked 12th overall on the Super West 60 and 11th on the California Top 100 lists by Rivals.com.

Rachal enrolled at Southern California in 2004, spurning scholarship offers from Arizona State, California, Michigan, San Jose State, UCLA and Washington. He competed as an offensive guard and tackle, but underwent left knee arthroscopic surgery in mid-September that kept him away from practices until October.

In 2005, Rachal appeared in all 13 games as a reserve offensive guard. He saw most of his action on special teams with the field goal/placement units. He earned Sophomore All-American and All-Pac-10 Conference second-team honors in 2006, starting every game, except vs. Washington, at right offensive guard. He was part of a young line that paved the way for an offense that generated 391.8 yards and 30.5 points per game.

As a junior, Rachal picked up All-American and All-Pac-10 Conference first-team honors despite missing three games after he suffered right knee ligament damage in the Washington game. He posted 80 knockdowns when healthy, leading the way for an improved rushing attack that averaged 197.2 yards per game, compared to 128.0 yards the previous season.

Talking about his son's decision to forgo his final season at Southern California, Charles Rachal said he thought family medical issues influenced his son's decision. "I think it played a considerable role because he loves his mama," he said. Charles Rachal said he did not expect his son to change his mind. "He's right around the corner from his degree," he said.

Career Notes

In 21 games as a starter, Rachal has never allowed a quarterback sack, delivering 155 knockdowns, including 15 touchdown-resulting blocks...The team's fastest offensive lineman, he was recently clocked at 4.92 in the 40-yard dash.

High School

Attended Dominguez (Compton, Cal.) High School, playing in just four games as a senior due to a knee injury...Earned 2003 Super Prep and Prep Star All-American honors...Was a member of the Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West honorable mention, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 second-team and All-CIF Southern Section first-team squads...The All-CIF Division III, Los Angeles Times All-Southeast/South Coast Lineman of the Year added Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream Team first-team and All-Conference honors as a senior offensive lineman...Rated the 12th-best offensive tackle in the country, ranked 12th overall on the Super West 60 and 11th on the California Top 100 lists by Rivals.com.

[R8RMR]

9(40) - New Orleans Saints - Tracy Porter (CB, Indiana)



Overview
One of the nation's top playmaking defensive backs, Tracy Porter became the first player in school history to return a punt, interception and fumble for touchdowns in his career.

The team captain has always been known for his ball-hawking skills, but after years of reluctance to perform vs. the run, Porter showed good determination in stopping the run his final season.

As a senior, Porter became the first Hoosier since Mark Sutor in 1982 to record six or more interceptions in a season. He would close out his career with 16 interceptions, three short of the school record of 19 by Tim Wilbur (1978-82). Ever the opportunist, he amassed 413 yards on those interception returns, breaking the previous Indiana record of 360 yards by Wilbur. He also became just the third player in Big Ten Conference history to gain over 400 yards on interception returns, joining Jamar Fletcher of Wisconsin (459, 1998-2000) and Tom Curtis of Michigan (431, 1967-69).

It took a few years for Porter to warm up to playing football. At Port Allen High School, he was more noted for his basketball talent than for his football prowess. He played only two seasons of football during his prep days, but earned first-team All-District 3A honors as a senior and second-team laurels as a junior.

Porter played quarterback, running back and wide receiver on offense and made 93 tackles, 11 interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) and 14 pass breakups as a cornerback during his senior year. He also returned two punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns, averaging 47.0 yards per kick return and 28.0 per punt return. He also started at point guard for the basketball team and clocked a personal best 10.4 in the 100 meters for the track team.

Porter joined Leslie Majors as the only true freshmen to letter at Indiana in 2004. He was named to The Sporting News' Big Ten Conference All-Freshman Team. He started the first seven games at right cornerback before he was sidelined for the final four contests with a left shoulder injury (clavicle fracture). He posted 22 tackles (19 solo) with six pass breakups and also intercepted three passes, returning one for a touchdown.

As a sophomore, Porter started all 11 games, 10 at right cornerback, and in the season finale vs. Purdue, he shifted to strong safety. He delivered 48 tackles (42 solo) with a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He picked off three more passes and also batted away six other throws.

Porter added punt return duties to his resume in 2006. He was a second-team All-Big Ten Conference pick, starting all 12 games at right cornerback. He was in on 59 tackles (51 solos), as he recovered a fumble, caused another and knocked down eight balls. He had four interceptions and a 27-yard kickoff return while also blocking one kick.

In 2007 preseason camps, Porter excelled and the coaching staff felt that he had the ability to be the Big Ten's elite cornerback. Coach Bill Lynch was impressed by Porter's play and maturity and predicted a big year.

In 2007, Porter became the first Indiana cornerback since Mike Dumas in 1989 to earn All-Big Ten Conference first-team accolades. He shifted to left cornerback, ranking second in the league and tied for 18th nationally with six interceptions. He ranked tied for third in the Big Ten with an 11.0-yard average on 23 punt returns. He totaled 83 tackles (63 solo), with a sack and 5.5 stops for losses. He recovered two fumbles, returning one for a score and had four pass breakups.

Porter started all 43 games in which he played at Indiana, lining up at right cornerback for 29 contests, at left cornerback for 13 games and once at strong safety. He ranks second in school history with 16 interceptions for a Hoosiers all-time record 413 yards in returns (25.8-yard average) and a touchdown. He recovered four fumbles for 147 yards in returns, including a score. He added 477 yards and a touchdown on 35 punt returns (13.6 avg) and had a 27-yard kickoff return. He finished with 212 tackles (175 solo), a nine-yard sack and 5.5 stops for minus-18 yards. He also caused two fumbles, deflected 24 passes and blocked a kick.


Career Notes
Porter's 16 interceptions rank second in school history, topped only by Tim Wilbur's 19 (1978-82)...His 413 yards on interception returns broke Wilbur's previous school all-time record of 360 yards and rank third in Big Ten Conference annals behind Jamar Fletcher of Wisconsin (459, 1998-2000) and Tom Curtis of Michigan (431, 1967-69)...First player in school history to return a punt, an interception and a fumble for a touchdown in his career...First Indiana cornerback since Mike Dumas in 1989 to earn first-team All-Big Ten Conference honors (2007)...Had six interceptions in 2007, tying Mark Sutor (1982), Tim Wilbur (1978), Milt Campbell (1955) and John Cannady (1946) for third on the school's season-record list, surpassed only by Wilbur's eight pass thefts in 1979 and seven by Dave Abrams in 1977...Gained 137 yards on interception returns in 2007, the fourth-best season total in Indiana history behind Tim Wilbur (167 in 1979 and 138 in 1978) and Mike Dumas (152 in 1990)...His 98 yards in returns via interceptions vs. Central Michigan in 2004 is the second-best game total in Hoosiers annals, topped only by Mike Dumas (99 vs. Purdue, 11/24/90)...His 96-yard interception return vs. Central Michigan in 2004 is the fourth-longest in school history behind Mike Dumas (99 vs. Purdue, 11/24/90), Tim Wilbur (98 vs. Michigan State, 10/21/78) and Alfonzo Thurman (97 vs. Miami, Ohio, 9/10/94)...His punt-return average of 13.6 yards rank seventh in Big Ten Conference history and set a school career-record.


High School
Attended Port Allen (La.) High School, playing football for head coach Paul DeStifanto...Played only two seasons of football during his prep days, but earned first-team All-District 3A honors as a senior and second-team laurels as a junior, despite missing seven games with a right forearm fracture that year...Competed as a quarterback, running back and wide receiver on offense and made 93 tackles, 11 interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) and 14 pass breakups as a cornerback during his senior year...Returned two punts and two kickoffs each for touchdowns, averaging 47.0 yards per kick return and 28.0 per punt return...Started at point guard for the basketball team and clocked a personal best 10.4 in the 100 meters for the track team.

[Gazzara]

10(41) - Buffalo Bills - James Hrdy (WR, Indiana)



Overview

James Hardy was a coveted basketball prospect. A 185-pound Elmhurst High School product arrived in Bloomington intent on taking part in IU's hoops legacy in 2004. After one season with that team, the lanky athlete decided to commit to the gridiron. By the time he decided to leave for the National Football League three years later, he had shattered the school's season and career receiving records.

Hardy is the only wide receiver in Indiana history to surpass 2,500 yards, 175 receptions and 35 touchdowns. He finished his career with 36 scores on 191 catches, good for 2,740 yards. He also made a significant contribution on the basketball team as a freshman. During the 2004-05 campaign, he played in 23 games, starting three times, as he averaged 1.7 points, 1.8 rebounds and 10.7 minutes per contest.

Hardy was a two-sport standout at Fort Wayne Elmhurst High School, where he was named All-SAC as a wide receiver after making 34 catches for 731 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior. Following his final campaign, he was a Class 4A All-State selection by the Indiana Football Coaches Association.

Hardy is the all-time leading scorer in Fort Wayne high school history. He was a two-time recipient of the Tiffany Gooden Award, given to the most out-standing male or female player in The Summit Athletic Conference, as chosen by The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette.

Hardy led the team to a Class AAA state runner-up finish in 2002-03 after averaging 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists. As a senior, Hardy averaged 27.3 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists, as the team finished with a 16-8 record. He was rated the 78th-best prep basketball player in the nation on the Insiders.com Top 100 squad.

After spending the 2004 football season with the scout team and the 2004-05 campaign with the basketball squad, Hardy concentrated strictly on football in 2005. He earned second-team All-Big Ten Conference honors, in addition to being a member of Rivals.com's Freshman All-American team.

Hardy started five of 10 games he appeared in at split end, missing the Michigan clash with a strained Achilles tendon. He led the Big Ten with an average of 89.3 yards per game receiving in 2005. His 61 catches rank third on the school's single-season record list, as he totaled 893 yards with 10 touchdowns.

On the field, Hardy had an equally impressive performance in 2006 as he did during his redshirt freshman season. But off the field, trouble followed. He was arrested on May 19 on charges of domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of a crime, after his girlfriend accused him of hitting her and the couple's infant child.

Hardy pleaded not guilty to the charges and later accepted a court's offer in Fort Wayne to settle his case through a pretrial diversion agreement. By accepting the program, he had to comply with the conditions of the agreement and pay court costs. He also apologized to his teammates and IU in his statement.

There were problems with Hardy and Indiana's late head coach Terry Hoeppner. After the second game of the 2006 season, the two met privately, resulting in the coach suspending Hardy for two games (vs. Southern Illinois and Connecticut).

When Hardy returned to the lineup, he was rusty from his layoff and was flagged for critical offensive pass interference on the Hoosiers' opening drive of the Wisconsin clash, finishing with an eight-yard catch for the day. He soon got back into his rhythm, catching at least five passes in six of his last seven games, finishing with 51 receptions for 722 yards (14.2-yard average) and 10 touchdowns.

As a junior, Hardy received several All-American first-team honors, in addition earned All-Big Ten Conference accolades. He led the team and ranked second in the league, as he set school season-records with 79 catches for 1,125 yards (14.2-yard average) and 16 touchdowns.

In 36 games at Indiana, Hardy started 26 contests. He finished his career by hauling in 191 passes for 2,740 yards (14.4 avg) and 36 touchdowns. He also scored 216 points and recorded one solo tackle.

Career Notes

Hardy's 36 touchdown receptions set a school record, topping the previous mark of 30 scores by Jade Butcher (1967-69)...His 36 touchdown catches rank third in Big Ten Conference history behind Braylon Edwards of Michigan (39, 2001-04) and Anthony Carter of Michigan (37, 1979-82)...His 36 scoring grabs rank fourth on the school's overall touchdown record list, topped by Anthony Thompson (68, 1986-89), Antwaan Randle El (45, 1998-2001) and Levron Williams (38, 1998-2001)...Hardy's 16 touchdown receptions in 2007 set a school record and rank tied with Taylor Stubblefield of Purdue (2004) for third on the Big Ten's annual record list behind Desmond Howard of Michigan (19 in 1991) and Terry Glenn (17 in 1995)...His four touchdown catches vs. Michigan State in 2004 set a Hoosiers game-record and rank tied for third in league annals behind Omar Douglas of Minnesota (five vs. Purdue in 1993) and Lee Evans of Wisconsin (five vs. Michigan State in 2003)...Scored 96 points in 2007, tying Pete Stoyanovich (1988) for fourth on the school's single-season list, ranking behind Anthony Thompson 156 in 1988; 154 in 1989) and Levron Williams (114 in 2001)...His 191 receptions broke the previous school career-record of 170 by Courtney Roby (2001-04)...Hardy's 79 catches in 2007 surpassed the old Indiana annual record of 66 grabs by Ernie Jones in 1987, as Hardy's 61 catches in 2005 rank third on that list...Gained 2,740 yards receiving during his career, topping the old school all-time record of 2,524 yards by Courtney Roby...His 1,125 receiving yards in 2007 rank second on Indiana's season-record list behind Ernie Jones' 1,265 yards in 1987...Became the fourth player in school history to gain over 200 yards receiving in a game, amassing 203 yards vs. Iowa in 2005 to join Thomas Lewis (285 vs. Penn State, 1993), Tyrone Browning (258 vs. Western Michigan, 1998) and Nate Lundy (256 vs. Colorado, 1980) on that lofty list...When Hardy caught three touchdowns vs. Iowa in 2006, he became the first Hoosier to catch three passes for scores in a game since Duane Gunn in 1983.

High School

Attended Elmhurst (Fort Wayne, Ind.) High School, where he was a standout in both foot-ball and basketball...Named All-SAC as a wide receiver after making 34 catches for 731 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior...Following his final campaign, he was a Class 4A All-State selection by the Indiana Football Coaches Association...For the basketball team, he is still the all-time leading scorer in Fort Wayne high school history...Two-time recipient of the Tiffany Gooden Award, given to the most outstanding male or female player in The Summit Athletic Conference, as chosen by The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette...Led the basketball team to a Class AAA state runner-up finish in 2002-03 after averaging 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists...As a senior, Hardy averaged 27.3 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists, as the team finished with a 16-8 record...Rated the 78th-best prep basket-ball player in the nation on the Insiders.com Top 100 squad.

[R8RMR]

11(42) - Denver Broncos - Eddie Royal (WR, Virginia Tech)



Overview
An electrifying athlete, Eddie Royal wasn't able to fully display his ability as a wide receiver at Virginia Tech.

The Hokies were limited for much of the season by inconsistent quarterback play. Royal did get to show off his skills in other areas and established himself as the premier punt returner in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He also excelled as a kickoff returner and proved to be a dangerous threat running out of the backfield.

Royal holds the rare distinction of throwing a touchdown, catching 12 scoring passes, rushing for a touchdown and returning three punts for scores during his career. It was also rare to see a receiver become a school's career leader in all-purpose yards, but Royal is one of the few -- amassing 4,698 yards. His 1,296 punt returns established a new Atlantic Coast Conference career-record.

At Westfield High School, Royal earned All-State honors as both a receiver and kick returner. He was named the Mid-Atlantic Offensive Player of the Year by Super Prep .and selected the Group AAA Player of the Year by the Associated Press. He was the Washington Post All-Metro Offensive Player of the Year and earned both Super Prep and Prep Star All-American honors following his senior season.

Royal was rated the best player in Virginia by Super Prep and the second-best player by The Roanoke Times, in addition to ranking 13th in the nation among wide receivers, according to Rivals.com. He teamed with fellow Virginia Tech signee, QB Sean Glennon to lead his team to the Group AAA Division 6 championship with a 14-0 record as a senior.

That year, he had 41 receptions for 875 yards and 11 touchdowns. He added a 47-yard punt return for a touchdown and a 1-yard scoring run on a reverse in the state title game. As a junior, he hauled in 48 passes as a junior for 905 yards and 11 touchdowns. For his career, he returned 10 kicks for touchdowns.

Royal arrived at Virginia Tech and quickly established himself, both on the field and in the training room. The Freshman All-American started 11 games at flanker, leading the team with 28 receptions for 470 yards (16.8-yard average) and three touchdowns. He averaged 11.0 yards on 25 punt returns and had the eighth-best kickoff-return average (28. in the country, gaining 346 yards on 12 tries, finishing with 1,101 all-purpose yards. He also set a position record with a 365-pound bench press.

As a sophomore, Royal missed spring drills with a left leg compartment syndrome, but went on to start all thirteen games. He ranked third on the team with 27 catches for 315 yards (11.7 avg) and two touchdowns. He rushed ten times for 79 yards and gained 263 yards on 32 punt returns (8.2-yard average). He also piled up 293 yards on 14 kickoff returns, despite being hampered late in the year by hamstring issues.

In 2006, Royal earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference second-team and All-American honorable mention. He led the ACC and ranked 12th nationally with a 13.2-yard average on 23 punt returns, adding 431 yards on 19 kickoff returns (22.7-yard average). He gained 24 yards on five carries and finished third on the squad with 31 catches for 497 yards (16-yard average) and three touchdowns while starting nine of 13 games.

Royal was a second-team All-American and first-team All-ACC punt returner in 2007, ranking 10th in the nation as he led the league with 31 punt returns for 455 yards (14.7-yard average) and two scores. He gained 316 yards on 14 kickoff returns, 496 yards and four scores on 33 receptions (15.0 avg) and 112 yards on eight rushing attempts (14.0 avg).

In 51 games at Virginia Tech, Royal started 44 contests. He ranks fourth in school annals with 119 receptions, sixth with 1,778 yards (14.9-yard average) and fifth with 12 touchdown catches. He rushed 24 times for 226 yards (9.4 avg) and a score, as he also completed 1-of-5 passes for 53 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. He returned 111 punts for a school career-record 1,296 yards (11.7 avg) and three scores. He added 1,386 yards on 59 kickoff returns (24.5 avg) and holds the Tech record with 4,686 all-purpose yards.


Career Notes
Royal ranks fourth school history with 119 receptions, topped by Ernest Wilford (126, 2000-03), Josh Morgan (122, 2004-07) and Antonio Freeman (121, 1991-94)...His 1,778 yards receiving rank behind Ricky Scales (2,272 yards, 1972-74), Antonio Freeman (2,207), Ernest Wilford (2,052), Andre Davis (1,986, 1998-2001) and Josh Morgan (1,817) on Tech's all-time record chart...His twelve touchdown catches are surpassed by Antonio Freeman (22), Rocky Scales (18), Andre Davis (18) and Josh Morgan (16) on the school's career-record list...Holds the school career-records with 111 punt returns for 1,296 yards, topping the old marks of 56 returns by DeAngelo Hall (2001-03) and 872 yards by Andre Davis (198-2001)....Only Steve Suter of Maryland (121, 2001-04), Ledel George of North Carolina State (125, 1990-93) and Kelley Rhino of Georgia Tech (112, 1999-2002) had more punt returns in Atlantic Coast Conference annals...His 1,296 punt return yards broke the old ACC all-time record of 1,271 yards by Steve Suter...Royal's 1,386 yards on kickoff returns are topped only by Jon Jeffries (1,447 yards, 1987-91) in school history...His 455 punt return yards in 2007 are the fourth-most in a season by a Tech player, topped by Ricky Hall (510 in 1999), DeAngelo Hall (487 in 2003) and Antonio Freeman (467 in 1994).


High School
Attended Westfield (Chantilly, Va.) High School, playing football for head coach Tom Verbanic...Earned All-State honors as both a receiver and kick returner...Named the Mid-Atlantic Offensive Player of the Year by Super Prep and selected the Group AAA Player of the Year by the Associated Press...Washington Post All-Metro Offensive Player of the Year and earned both Super Prep and Prep Star All-American honors following his senior year...Rated the best player in Virginia by Super Prep and the second-best player by The Roanoke Times, in addition to ranking 13th in the nation among wide receivers, according to Rivals.com...Teamed with fellow Virginia Tech signee, QB Sean Glennon to lead his team to the Group AAA Division 6 championship with a 14-0 record as a senior...That year, he had 41 receptions for 875 yards and 11 touchdowns...Added a 47-yard punt return for a touchdown and a 1-yard scoring run on a reverse in the state title game...As a junior, he hauled in 48 passes as a junior for 905 yards and 11 touchdowns...For his career, he returned ten kicks for touchdowns.

[Gazzara]

12(43) - Minnesotta Vikings (from Panthers through Eagles) - Tyrell Johnson (FS, Arkansas State)



Overview

With a perfect blend of size, strength, speed and field smarts, Marcellus Tyrell Johnson might not have garnered much media attention, but his numbers truly stand out against any other safety in the nation. He holds the Sun Belt Conference career records for most tackles (363) and most interception return yards (309), as he also established league records for most yards gained on interception returns in a season (142 in 2007) and most tackles in a game (25 vs. North Texas, 2005).

Johnson's 92-yard interception return vs. Florida International in 2005 is the second-longest run back in Sun Belt Conference annals and ranks fourth in school history. His 28 passes defended (13 interceptions, 15 break-ups) rank second on the Sun Belt all-time record list, while his 13 interceptions rank third.

At Rison High School, Johnson earned All-State and All-Conference honors in 2002, despite being hampered all season by a nagging high ankle sprain. He helped the team to a perfect record as ASU captured the Class 8AA title, adding All-District accolades in each of his final three seasons. He was a two-time All-Southeast Arkansas choice and a Marine Scholar. He rushed for 1,085 yards (7.7 avg) and 16 touchdowns, while returning 22 punts for 198 yards as a senior.

Competing as a defensive back and running back, Johnson had 353 career rushes for 2,725 yards (7.72 avg), including 49 touchdowns. He caught six passes for 120 yards and had 53 punt returns for 460 yards. He added 18 kickoff returns for 339 yards and one score, had three interceptions (returned one for score), recorded 20 tackles, forced two fumbles and recovered two others. He also lettered in basketball and participated in track and field for three seasons. He started on Rison's 2000 Class AA state championship hoops team.

Johnson enrolled at Arkansas State in 2003, spending the season adjusting to playing safety on the scout team. He took over free safety chores in 2004, earning Freshman All-American and second-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors. He finished third on the team with 94 tackles (61 solos), as he caused a fumble and recovered another that he advanced for a touchdown. He picked off four passes and broke up five others.

As a sophomore, Johnson shifted to strong safety, picking up All-Sun Belt Conference first-team recognition, as he was twice named the league's Player of the Week. He led the team with 112 tackles (83 solos), causing and recovering one fumble. He deflected two passes and had a pair of interceptions, including a 92-yarder, while averaging 17.0 yards on three kickoff returns.

In 2006, Johnson again led the team with 63 tackles (43 solos), earning first-team All-Sun Belt Conference accolades. He picked off a pass, knocked down four others and had a stop behind the line of scrimmage.

Johnson was a third-team All-American, first-team All-Sun Belt Conference and league Defensive Player of the Year in 2007. He placed fourth on the squad with 94 tackles (58 solos), including 4.5 stops for losses and two forced fumbles. He had four pass break-ups and six interceptions, returning one for a touchdown from his strong safety position.

In 46 games at Arkansas State, all starts, Johnson registered 363 tackles (245 solos) with 6.5 stops for losses of 31 yards. He caused four fumbles and recovered two others, returning one 55 yards for a touchdown. He broke up 15 passes and intercepted 13 others for 309 yards in returns (23.77 avg.) and a score. He gained 51 yards on three kickoff returns (17.0 avg.), 2 yards on two carries, 3 yards on a punt return and 3 yards on a reception.

Career Notes

Holds the Sun Belt Conference career record with 363 tackles, topping the previous mark of 300 by Steve Tookes of Arkansas State (2001-04)...His 363 tackles also rank sixth in school annals behind Jerry Muckensturm (493, 1972-75), Bill Bergey (436, 1965-68), Ron Smith (422, 1976-79), Mike Malham (370, 1972-75) and Mike Morris (366, 1979-82)...Holds the Sun Belt all-time record with 309 yards gained on interception returns, topping the previous mark of 236 yards by Koby McKinnon of Arkansas State (2004-2007)...Only Terry Whiting (374, 1968-71) had more yards via interception returns in school history...His 142 yards gained on interception returns in 2007 topped the previous Sun Belt season record of 138 yards by Chaz Williams of Louisiana-Monroe in 2005...Johnson's 13 pass thefts rank third in league annals, surpassed by Chris Harris of Louisiana-Monroe (14, 2001-04) and Johnathan Burke of Arkansas State (14, 2003-04)...His 28 passes defended (13 interceptions, 15 deflections) rank second in conference history behind Jonas Buckles of North Texas (30, 18 interceptions, 12 break-ups, 2001-04)...Holds the Sun Belt game record with 25 tackles vs. North Texas in 2005...Only Bergey (33 vs. Eastern Michigan in 1968( had more tackles in a game in ASU history...His 92-yard interception return vs. Florida International in 2005 is the second-longest run back in Sun Belt annals, topped by Maurice Holman of North Texas (99 vs. Middle Tennessee, 9-10-2005).

High School

Attended Rison (Ark.) High School, earning All-State and All-Conference honors in 2002, despite being hampered all season by a nagging high ankle sprain...Helped the team to a perfect record as it captured the Class 8AA title, adding All-District accolades in each of his final three seasons...Two-time All-Southeast Arkansas choice and a Marine Scholar...Rushed for 1,085 yards (7.7 avg.) and 16 touchdowns, while returning 22 punts for 198 yards as a senior...Competing as a defensive back and running back, Johnson had 353 career rushes for 2,725 yards (7.72 avg.), including 49 touchdowns...Caught six passes for 120 yards and had 53 punt returns for 460 yards...Added 18 kickoff returns for 339 yards and one score, had three interceptions (returned one for score), recorded 20 tackles, forced two fumbles and recovered two others...Also lettered in basketball and participated in track and field for three seasons...Started on Rison's 2000 Class AA state championship hoops team.

[R8RMR]

13(44) - Chicago Bears - Matt Forte (RB, Tulane)

Overview
The Green Wave boasts one of the elite tailbacks in college football. Much like his predecessor, Mewelde Moore (2000-03), Forte' is a multi-talented athlete who must be accounted for by the opposition, as he can break free for a long run, take the ball up the middle for tough yardage, catch the ball coming out of the backfield, deliver the big tackle on the special teams coverage unit or utilize his strong arm to complete the option pass.

A creative open-field runner, Forte' has drawn comparisons to Arizona Cardinals standout Edgerrin James, as he shows the same balance, body control and burst to gain valid yardage after the initial hit. He ranks second on the school's career-record lists with 808 rushing attempts for 4,145 yards on the ground, while his 38 scoring runs established the Tulane all-time record. Forte' also became the 11th player in NCAA Subdivision (1-A) history to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a season during his senior year.

After leading the nation in rushing for a good part of 2007, Forte eventually finished second with 177.3 yards per game. He was also second in scoring with 11.67 points per game and fourth with 201.7 all-purpose yards per game. His five 200-yard games tied the single-season NCAA record held by three players (Marcus Allen of Southern California in 1981, Barry Sanders of Oklahoma State in 1988 and Jamario Thomas of North Texas State in 2004).

In 2007, Forte' gained 620 yards in a two-game span (vs. Southern Methodist and Memphis), the most by a Division 1-A runner since Ricky Williams of Texas gained 668 yards in 1998 (318 vs. Rice and 350 vs. Iowa State). His 2007 three-game span of 829 yards (vs. Southern Methodist, Memphis and Alabama-Birmingham) are the most gained by a Division 1-A runner in three consecutive contests since Sanders totaled 937 yards in 1988. His four-game streak of 1,031 yards (vs. Southern Methodist, Memphis, Alabama-Birmingham and Army) is the most in Division 1-A history since Sanders piled up 1,152 yards in 1988.

An Honor Roll student at Slidell High School, Forte' earned The St. Tammany Parish Player of the Year Award and was named District 5-5A Offensive Most Valuable Player as a senior. The All-Metro selection added second-team All-State honors his final year and was a two-time All-District and All-Parish choice. He also served as team captain and garnered squad MVP honors his senior season.

Forte' amassed 2,432 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns in his career while also catching 48 passes for 618 yards and five scores. He gained 1,375 yards as a senior while averaging 6.7 yards per carry, scoring 23 touchdowns on the ground. He also made 18 catches for 253 yards and a pair of scores. He totaled 1,057 rushing yards with eight touchdowns and caught 30 passes for 365 yards and three scores as a junior. He also lettered in track.

Forte' became the third member of his family to play college football and the second to suit up for Tulane. His father, Gene Forte' played for the team from 1975-77, serving as team captain as a senior. His brother, Bryan Forte', played football at McNeese State in 2004, where he competed as a reserve linebacker, recording 20 tackles (12 solos) with 3.5 stops for losses, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble.

The talented youngster made an immediate impact during his first season at Tulane, earning Conference USA All-Freshman Team honors. He shared tailback duties with Jovon Jackson, starting the team's final three games. He finished second on the team with 624 yards and four touchdowns on 140 carries (4.5 avg). He added 180 yards and a pair of scores on 20 receptions (9.0 avg) and gained 804 all-purpose yards. He also registered three solo tackles on the punt coverage unit.

Forte' and Jackson would again share the brunt of the rushing load in 2005. Forte' would go on to lead the team with 169 attempts for 655 yards (3.9 avg) and four touchdowns, as he started the first four and final two contests. He ranked fifth on the Green Wave with 23 catches for 163 yards (7.1 avg) and a score, finishing with 818 all-purpose yards.

Forte' received All-Conference USA third-team honors and was named to the Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-State second-team in 2006. He started the first nine games, but suffered a torn meniscus and posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, missing the Green Wave's final three contests. He still led the team in rushing with 163 rushes for 859 yards (5.3 avg) and eight touchdowns. The team's fourth-leading receiver caught 28 passes for 360 yards (12.9 avg) and two scores. He attempted one pass, recovered an onside kickoff and recorded seven tackles on special teams. He totaled 1,219 all-purpose yards, ranking third in the conference with an average of 135.44 yards per game.

Held out of spring drills as he continued to recover from his knee injury, Forte' was primed for a banner senior campaign and certainly surpassed even the wildest of expectations. He reeled off five 200-yard efforts, including four in a row, with two of those performances compiling at least 300 yards.

He rushed 361 times for 2,127 yards and a school season-record 23 touchdowns. He added 32 receptions for 282 yards and returned one kickoff 11 yards. He completed one of 10 passes for four yards.

In 43 career games, Forte' started 30 times. He finished as Tulane's career leader with 99.2 rushing yards per game, 39 rushing touchdowns and 44 total touchdowns. He is second with 5,261 all-purpose yards, 4,265 rushing yards and 833 rushing attempts.


Career Notes
A four-year letterman and three-year starter who played in 43 career games with 30 starts...Completed his career as Tulane's leader in rushing yards per game (99.186), rushing touchdowns (39) and total touchdowns (44) while ranking second in all-purpose yards (5,261), rushing yards (4,265), rushing attempts (833) and 100-yard rushing games (16), third in total points (266), and fourth in yards per carry (5.12)...Points total is the most by a non-kicker...Career receiving totals include 103 receptions for 985 yards and five touchdowns...Rushed for 2,127 yards and 23 touchdowns in '07...Just the 11th player in NCAA Division I-Bowl Subdivision history to run for 2,000 yards in a season and the first since Cal's J.J. Arrington accomplished the feat in 2004...2007 rushing total ranks seventh in NCAA single-season history while his 177.2 rushing-yards-per-game average is 17th.


High School
Attended Slidell (La.) High School, playing football for head coach Wayne Grubb...An Honor Roll student, Forte' earned The St. Tammany Parish Player of the Year Award and was named District 5-5A Offensive Most Valuable Player as a senior...The All-Metro selection added second-team All-State honors his final year and was a two-time All-District and All-Parish choice...Served as team captain and garnered team MVP honors his senior season...Amassed 2,432 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns in his career while also catching 48 passes for 618 yards and five scores...Gained 1,375 yards as a senior while averaging 6.7 yards per carry, scoring 23 touchdowns on the ground...Also made 18 catches for 253 yards and a pair of scores...Totaled 1,057 rushing yards with eight touchdowns and caught 30 passes for 365 yards and three scores as a junior...Also lettered in track.

[Gazzara]

14(45) - Detroit Lions - Jordan Dizon (OLB, Colorado)



Overview

To say that Dizon is a tackling machine would be an understatement. Including bowl games, he registered 463 tackles during his career, the eighth-best total in NCAA major college history and the second-best among active players behind Central Michigan's Red Keith (465). No player in college had more total tackles (173) or averaged more tackles per game (13.31) in 2007 than the Buffaloes' weak-side inside linebacker.

Colorado, which recognizes only regular-season statistics, placed Dizon fourth on its all-time record chart. Only Barry Remington (493, 1982-86), Matt Russell (446, 1993-96) and Greg Biekert (441, 1989-92) produced more stops during their CU careers.

In 2007, Dizon became the first Buff defensive player to win Big 12 Conference Player of the Year honors and the first to garner league player of the year honors among Colorado defenders since cornerback Deon Figures earned the nod in 1992, the same year he won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back.

"He is very deserving," head coach Dan Hawkins said. "Good things happen to good people and he is one of those guys. He has had a tremendous season; he's played very well and been very productive. He has been very consistent and very solid, all the things I've said before. He shows up every day, he's a very humble guy, he plays hurt, great leader -- just very solid all the way around. He should be the Butkus (Award) guy as well."

"He's everything you want in a young man, everything you want in a football player. I just hope everybody votes right, because I know every scout who comes in here, bar none, says he's the best linebacker in the country," Hawkins stated.

Physically, the squat and powerful Hawaiian more resembles Mike Singletary, Tom Jackson and Sam Mills, among the many cerebral, fiery and undersized linebackers who had long NFL careers than he does Brian Urlacher, who fits the ideal prototype. "Me being little, me being tiny, I've got the feet to make up for it," Dizon said. "I've got the will, I've got the heart and everything you ask for in a small player to do a big man's job."

At Waimea High School, Dizon earned Prep Football Report and Prep Star All-West honors, earning second-team All-State and Kauai Interscholastic Federation (KIF) All-Star accolades. PFR ranked him as the 65th-best player in the region and the third-ranked running back, calling him "potentially the top fullback on the west coast," and Rivals.com ranked him as the eighth-best running back prospect nationally.

Dizon was injured most of the regular season his senior year, rushing once for a 12-yard touchdown run but catching nine passes for 250 yards and three scores in just over two games. As a junior, he rushed 150 times for 1,157 yards and 13 touchdowns, and caught 15 passes for 175 yards. He started at linebacker on defense and was in on 75 tackles. He also handled some of the punting chores.

Dizon also lettered four times in basketball (forward), where he was a three-time Player of the Year/Island (KIF), as well as a three-time honorable mention All-State performer. He also lettered three times in track (sprints, the 100-meter KIF champion as a junior), and once in soccer.

Perhaps due to his senior high school injury, Dizon was only recruited by Colorado. The linebacker's school, Waimea High, is on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the westernmost high school in the United States. There were only 20 players on Dizon's high school team, almost all of whom played offense and defense. CU linebackers coach Brian Cabral, who has been at Colorado the last 18 years, is a native of Kailua, Hawaii, and got a tip from a high school coach about Dizon. Without seeing Dizon in person, Cabral sent him some information about Colorado's summer football camp.

Every summer the Dizons would travel from Kauai to New York (Jordon's mother's hometown), usually laying over in Denver. So the summer after Jordon's junior year in high school, the family decided to spend a few extra days in Denver and have Jordon attend Colorado's camp. Colorado offered him a scholarship shortly thereafter. "No one knew who I was," said Dizon. "Colorado was the only school to recruit me. I was at a small school on an island in the middle of the ocean. It was luck of the draw. I went to the camp and met the right people. I didn't even play football my senior year because I got hurt. But Colorado stood by the scholarship offer."

In 2004, Dizon enjoyed one of the finest seasons by a true freshman in school history, as he was CU's first true frosh to be recognized as the Big 12 Conference's Defensive Newcomer of the Year (Associated Press) and the Defensive Freshman of the Year (league coaches) awards. The Sporting News and Rivals.com selected him as a second-team Freshman All-American, he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors and led all freshmen in the conference in tackles with 82 (51 solo). That also established a CU true freshman record as he bettered the old total by some 15 stops (it was the second-most tackles posted by a frosh, redshirt or true, missing a new mark by just four).

Dizon lined up at weak-side inside linebacker as a sophomore, moving from the outside linebacker spot. He registered 61 tackles (42 solos) with three sacks, seven stops for losses and four pressures. He also broke up a pass and added three special team tackles to garner All-Big 12 Conference honorable mention.

As a junior, Dizon started 11 games at inside linebacker, coming off the bench after the first series vs. Nebraska. He ranked tied with Mississippi's Patrick Willis for sixth in the nation with an average of 11.42 tackles per game. He led the Buffs with 137 tackles (80 solos), adding four sacks, two pressures and 11 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He recovered two fumbles, caused another and delivered 17 third-down stops.

In 2007, Dizon became the first Colorado defender since Matt Russell in 1996 to earn consensus All-American first-team honors. He was a unanimous All-Big 12 first-team pick and league Defensive Player of the Year. During the regular season, he posted 160 tackles (120 solos). Including the Independence Bowl, he registered 173 hits, leading the nation with an average of 13.31 tackles per game. He had 19 third-down tackles, along with four sacks, 11 stops for losses and eight pressures. He also had the first two pass thefts for his career, returning one for a touchdown.

In 48 games, Dizon started 46 times, averaging 9.17 tackles per game, as he collected 440 hits (293 solos) with 12 sacks for minus-97 yards, 35 stops for losses of 137 yards and 15 quarterback pressures. He caused three fumbles, recovered two others and deflected nine passes while participating in 2,547 regular-season snaps. He gained 79 yards with a score on two interceptions and posted 48 third-down stops, the second-most in school history.

Career Notes

Including three postseason bowl games, Dizon recorded 463 tackles during his career, ranking eighth in NCAA history, topped Tim McGarigle, Northwestern (545, 2002-05); Rod Davis of Southern Mississippi (526, 2000-03); Justin Beriault of Ball State (509, 2001-04); Ryan Fowler of Duke (495, 2000-03); Grant Wiley of West Virginia (492, 2000-03); Matt Pusateri of Miami, Ohio (485, 2001-04); and Red Keith of Central Michigan (465, 2004-07)...His 173 total tackles in 2007 rank sixth on the NCAA single-season record list behind Lawrence Flugence of Texas Tech (193 in 2002), Josh Buhl of Kansas State (184 in 2003), Tom Ward of Toledo (180 in 2002), Jimmy Cottrell of New Mexico State (179 in 2005) and E.J. Henderson of Maryland (175 in 2002)...His 173 tackles in 2007 are topped only by Flugence and Buhl on the Big 12 Conference single-season record chart...Only Flugence (500, 1999-2002) had more tackles in Big 12 annals than Dizon's 463...Colorado only recognizes regular season statistics, making Dizon's 440 in those 48 games fourth in school history behind Barry Remington (493, 1982-86), Matt Russell (446, 1993-96) and Greg Biekert (441, 1989-92).

High School

Attended Waimea (Kauai, Hawaii) High School, playing football for head coach John Kubayashi as a junior and senior and for Liko Pereira as a freshman and sophomore...

Earned Prep Football Report and Prep Star All-West honors, earning second-team All-State and Kauai Interscholastic Federation (KIF) All-Star accolades...PFR ranked him as the 65th-best player in the region and the third ranked running back, calling him "potentially the top fullback on the west coast," and Rivals.com ranked him as the eighth-best running back prospect nationally...Was injured most of the regular season his senior year, rushing once for a 12 yard touchdown run but catching nine passes for 250 yards and three scores in just over two games...As a junior, he rushed 150 times for 1,157 yards and 13 touchdowns, and caught 15 passes for 175 yards...Started at linebacker on defense and was in on 75 tackles...Also handled some of the punting chores...Lettered four times in basketball (forward), where he was a three-time Player of the Year/Island (KIF), as well as a three-time honorable mention All-State performer...Also lettered three times in track (sprints, the 100-meter KIF champion as a junior), and once in soccer...Honor roll member every quarter in high school, with his grade point average always at 3.5 or higher.

[R8RMR]

15(46) - Cincinatti Bengals - Jerome Simpson (WR, Coastal Carolina)



Overview
Unquestionably the face of the Chanticleers' program, Simpson brought the young program into the national spotlight with a sensational junior campaign. The school record-holder for game, season and career marks in receptions, yardage and touchdowns, he produced 11 multiple-touchdown performances in 41 games.

Simpson holds the Big South Conference career-record with 2,430 yards receiving, including a Big South season-record 1,077 yards in 2006, a year he also set the league mark with 16 touchdown catches.

At Reidsville High School, Simpson earned Class AA All-State honors and was a runner-up for Class 2-AA Mr. NCHSAA Football honors as a senior. He added All-State accolades during his junior season. He led the team to back-to-back Class AA state titles, setting a championship game-record with 13 catches for 133 yards, while also throwing a 62-yard scoring strike to earn Most Valuable Player honors in his final year. He would go on to play in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas and also competed in the East-West game.

In his final campaign, Simpson hauled in 96 passes for 1,324 yards (13.8-yard average) and 14 touchdowns, despite missing three games with an injury. The school's all-time leading receiver amassed almost 3,000 receiving yards during his last two seasons. He also lettered in basketball and track. He led the hoops squad to its first state title as a senior, scoring 19 points in the championship game to garner MVP honors. He also ran on the school's 4x400-meter relay team that captured the state title (3:21).

As a true freshman at Coastal Carolina in 2004, Simpson earned Big South Conference Freshman of the Year honors and was named Big South Freshman of the Week three times during the season (vs. Morehead State, Davidson and Charleston), where he posted his first career 100-yard receiving game. He started all 11 games, coming up with 26 receptions for 419 yards (16.1-yard average) and eight touchdowns at split end, adding an assisted tackle and a stop for a loss on limited defensive play.

Simpson was a second-team All-Big South Conference selection as a sophomore, as he started six of 11 games in 2005. He also earned South Carolina All-Star recognition from the Orangeburg Touchdown Club. He led the team with 33 catches for 527 yards (16.9 avg) and nine touchdowns, but lost 29 yards on a pair of reverses. He recorded one solo tackle and scored 54 points for the season.

In 2006, Simpson became the first player in school history to gain over 1,000 yards in a season. The All-American second-team choice by the Associated Press and Football Gazette added All-Big South Conference first-team accolades to his resume. He led the league and ranked eighth nationally in receiving yards (89.75 yards per game), ranked third in the Big South in receptions (5.08 per game) and set the school and conference record for touchdown catches (16). He scored 96 points while grabbing 61 passes for 1,077 yards (17.7 avg) and ran once for an eight-yard loss.

With Tyler Thigpen graduated, Simpson had to develop chemistry with the team's young quarterbacks in 2007, as the aerial game struggled to gain momentum. Through the team's first 10 games, he ranked fifth in the Big South in receptions (3.7 rpg) and receiving yards (61.3 ypg). He led the team with 37 receptions for 613 yards (16.6-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. He returned a kickoff 15 yards and also gained 10 yards on a reverse. He recovered a fumble and recorded one solo tackle.

Simpson also lettered twice on the school's track team. He was a member of the 2006 Big South Conference Men's Outdoor Track and Field Championship squad, earning All-Big South honors after finishing third in both the high jump and long jump. He also set a new school record in the high jump with a leap of 2.05m (6' 8.75").

He finished third at the NCAA East Regionals in the long jump and qualified for the 2007 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.. He was also on the school record 4x400-meter relay squad that set the new mark at the Big South Championships.

In 44 games at Coastal Carolina, Simpson started 38 games. He set school records with 157 receptions for 2,636 yards (yardage is also a Big South Conference mark) and 41 touchdowns, averaging 16.79 yards per catch. He scored 246 points, rushed four times for losses totaling 27 yards (minus-6.8-yard average) and returned a kickoff 15 yards. He recorded three tackles (two solo), including one for a three-yard loss and recovered one fumble.


Career Notes
Simpson holds virtually every school game, season and career receiving records...On the Big South Conference record charts, he set the league career-record with 2,636 yards receiving, topping the old mark of 2,429 yards by Marcus Price of Charleston Southern (2004-06) and the previous school record of 1,126 yards by Chris Noble (2003-06)...His 157 receptions rank third in Big South annals behind Price (202) and Duvaughn Flagler of Gardner-Webb (173, 2004-present)...Simpson also shattered the old CCU all-time record of 80 catches by Noble...His 43 touchdown receptions set school and Big South career records, topping the league mark of 28 by Flagler...Only Aundres Perkins of Coastal Carolina (47, 2003-06) had more total touchdowns in league and CCU history...Registered seven 100-yard receiving games, ranking behind Maurice Price (10) on the Big South all-time list...His receiving average of 16.79 yards per catch ranks second behind Lauren Williams of Liberty (17.6-yard average, 2003-05) in Big South history and Simpson set the school record, breaking the previous CCU mark of 16.78 yards per catch by Jamar Anderson (2006)... Among non-kickers, his 246 points scored are second in school and Big South history, surpassed by Perkins' 286...Simpson's 61 receptions in 2006 placed him seventh on the Big South's season-record list and broke his own school mark of 33 grabs in 2005... Became just the third player in Big South history and the first in CCU annals to gain over 1,000 yards receiving (1,077 in 2006), joining Maurice Price of Charleston Southern (1,043 in 2005) and Aaron Dunklin of Charleston Southern (1,025 in 2003)...His average of 17.7 yards per catch in 2006 rank second on the league record books behind Kory Alston of Gardner-Webb (18.3 avg in 2004)...His 16 touchdown catches in 2006 set new school and conference season-records, topping the old league mark of 13 by William Andrews Jr. of Gardner-Webb in 2003 and matched by Duvaughn Flagler of Gardner-Webb in 2005...Simpson's five 100-yard receiving performances in 2006 are one shy of the league single-season record of six by Maurice Price in 2005...Scored 96 points in 2006, topping the old Big South annual record of 91 by Matt Sharpe of Virginia Military Institute in 2003 and the previous school record of 84 points by Aundres Perkins in 2003...His average of 89.75 yards receiving in 2006 established a new Big South season-record, topping Aaron Dunklin of Charleston Southern's old mark of 85.4 yards in 2003...Had at least one touchdown catch in 11 games during 2006, tying the old NCAA Division 1-AA season-record set by Randy Moss of Marshall in 1996...Only Jarrett Dillard of Division 1-A Rice (13 in 2006) had more games with catching at least one touchdown pass in a season in the history of college football...His 207 yards receiving vs. Georgia Southern in 2006 set a school game-record, topping his own mark of 162 yards vs. James Madison in 2005 (owns nine of CCU's top 10 receiving performances)...Those 207 yards rank second on the Big South single-game record list behind Duvaughn Flagler of Gardner-Webb's 210 vs. Wofford in 2005, as they are the only two players in league history to gain over 200 yards receiving in a game...Simpson's three touchdown catches vs. Charleston (W.V.) in 2004 are one short of the conference game-record of four scores by Maurice Price of Charleston Southern vs. Savannah State in 2005...His average of 25.88 yards per reception vs. Georgia Southern in 2006 is a school record and ranks fourth in Big South Conference history...His 66-yard reception vs. Liberty in 2006, 61-yarder vs. Gardner-Webb in 2006 and 60-yarder vs. Savannah State in 2005 are topped only by Santini Washington's 80-yard catch vs. Wofford in 2006 as the school's longest reception.


High School
Attended Reidsville (N.C.) High School, playing football for head coach Jimmie Teague...Earned Class AA All-State honors and was a runner-up for Class 2-AA Mr. NCHSAA Football honors as a senior and All-State accolades during his junior season...Led the team to back-to-back Class AA state titles, setting a championship game-record with 13 catches for 133 yards, while also throwing a 62-yard scoring strike to earn Most Valuable Player honors in his final year...Played in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas and also competed in the East-West game...In his final campaign, Simpson hauled in 96 passes for 1,324 yards (13.8-yard average) and 14 touchdowns, despite missing three games with an injury...The school's all-time leading receiver amassed almost 3,000 aerial yards during his last two seasons...Also lettered in basketball and track...Led the hoops squad to its first state title as a senior, scoring 19 points in the championship game to garner MVP honors...Ran on the school's 4x400-meter relay team that captured the state title (3:21).