Questions surround deep, talented WR, TE classes

Originally Published: April 24, 2008

Scouts Inc.'s Todd McShay examines the 2008 wide receivers and tight ends and breaks down the best DBs in a variety of areas.

Email Share

STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME Become an Insider Today

By Todd McShay
Scouts Inc.
Archive

Even though he's unlikely to be the first receiver selected, don't be surprised if Limas Sweed finishes with the most productive pro career from this year's crop. A wrist injury -- which has nagged him since before the college season -- has caused his draft stock to slip a bit, but when healthy Sweed has the best combination of size, athleticism, hands, recognition skills and competitiveness the 2008 class has to offer.

Sweed isn't the only receiver to see his stock fall recently. Malcolm Kelly has dealt with a quad injury and questions about past knee problems, and he also had a poor on-campus workout after which he complained about the setup of the workout as well as the Oklahoma training staff. DeSean Jackson weighed in at 169 pounds at the combine and questions have arisen about his work ethic, while Mario Manningham and Adarius Bowman have had issues with lying about failed drug tests and marijuana possession, respectively.

The beneficiary is Devin Thomas. While there is no denying his natural tools, Thomas has emerged as the consensus choice to be the first receiver taken in part because of the pre-draft struggles of other big-name wideouts.

To continue reading this article you must be an Insider

ESPN The Magazine subscribers

Activate your Insider account »
Need more information?

View Insider Benefits »

ESPN NFL Draft 2008