Commentary

New wideout on the Big Board

Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon makes his first appearance on the Big Board

Updated: November 24, 2010, 2:44 PM ET
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN.com

As a general rule for me, overall productivity is less an indicator of an NFL future than big plays. But don't oversimplify the idea of a big play. I look for the guy who can do more than the play was designed to allow on offense and the guy who can disrupt the play the most and seemingly can't be schemed around on defense. But productivity matters, and big totals always beg for a closer examination.

This year, Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon fits the profile of a guy whose totals have demanded a closer look. The result being: He has shown that he's far more than a stat-hound. Blackmon combines immense productivity with explosiveness in the great Cowboys' offense (which isn't just an air show but maintains solid balance). The draft-eligible sophomore makes his first appearance on the Board this week. There are other significant movements this week, so take a look. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.

And have a happy Thanksgiving.


Big Board Bar

1
Andrew Luck *
QB
6-4
235

Analysis: With a comp. percentage up a full 10 points, he balances improvement and refinement. Question is whether the top pick-holder needs a QB. Last week: No. 1

2
Da'Quan Bowers *
DE
6-4
277

Analysis: His 23 TFL have created minus-150 yards. A tremendous physical talent, who has shown a steady relentlessness this year. Biggest riser all year. Last week: No. 3

3
A.J. Green *
WR
6-4
207

Analysis: Green has been mostly unstoppable even with a young QB and was totally dominant on a big stage Saturday, which I discuss here. Last week: No. 2

4
Patrick Peterson *
CB
6-1
211

Analysis: More than a freak athlete, Peterson has continued to improve his technical cover skills. Mixed reports on exact size but has safety size, corner speed. Last week: No. 4

5
Prince Amukamara
CB
6-1
202

Analysis: I'd be more concerned about Amukamara's zero interceptions in 2010 if any quarterback was willing to challenge him. A gifted technician. Last week: No. 5



To see what other moves have been made on the Big Board, you must be an ESPN Insider.

Mel Kiper Jr.

Football analyst
  • ESPN NFL Draft analyst since 1984
  • Contributes to SportsCenter and ESPN Radio
  • Writes weekly for ESPN Insider

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