Ferguson, Williams shine during practices

D'Brickashaw Ferguson and DeAngelo Williams were the brightest stars of the Senior Bowl practices. Other prospects still have some work to do, writes Mel Kiper.

Updated: January 31, 2006, 6:20 PM ET

By Mel Kiper Jr. | Special to ESPN Insider

MOBILE, Ala. -- This year's crop of talent at the Senior Bowl compares favorably with the last few years. A couple of the quarterbacks and defensive backs elevated their groups this year, but the wide-receiver corps was disappointing. This year's group of offensive linemen in Mobile has some talent. The defensive ends and linebackers will have a better chance to showcase their skills in Saturday's game (ESPN, 4 p.m. ET). Overall, there seems to be more balance to this year's roster. Virginia OL D'Brickashaw Ferguson and Memphis RB DeAngelo Williams were unquestionably the best players this week during the Senior Bowl practices. They were spectacular.

Ferguson displayed great hands, long arms and good feet. He was the best player on the field. Williams showed a burst to daylight that is second to none. He displayed great vision, cutting ability and great feet. As a pure natural runner, he has very few peers.

QBs Jay Cutler (Vanderbilt) and Brodie Croyle (Alabama) are among the players who raised their stock this week.

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