Commentary

Big Board shifts among top 10

QBs could be drafted far higher than their stock indicates -- but that makes sense

Updated: March 19, 2011, 8:26 AM ET
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN.com

If you saw my recent mock draft, you know I have two quarterbacks going within the first four picks. You also won't see either of them in the top 10 here, a list that reflects current draft value. But that's the reality of the draft. While I think a rookie salary scale will make it much easier for teams to move up and down the draft board, it's still always an internal battle between getting the best value and getting the biggest need. Right now, it makes sense for teams drafting in the top five to show a great deal of interest in quarterbacks. With so many of the teams drafting early in need of an answer there, it creates a lot of leverage. But the need outpaces value right now.

That said, there are still chances to move up on the Big Board. There are plenty of evaluations to be made. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.


Big Board Bar

1
Patrick Peterson *
CB
6-0
219

Analysis: An extraordinary athlete, Peterson has 4.34 speed in the 40 and carries safety size. Tape is superb; helps in return game. Solid after recent pro day. Last week: No. 1

2
Nick Fairley *
DT
6-4
291

Analysis: Raised eyebrows with smaller size at combine, but had great workouts, then weighed 297 at Auburn pro day. Versatility, skills, tape all imply stardom. Last week: No. 2

3
Marcell Dareus *
DE
6-3
319

Analysis: Dareus is a gifted penetrator with pass-rush skills to burn and a good motor. Well-liked, scheme-versatile, he has impressed during draft lead-up. Last week: No. 3

4
Von Miller
LB
6-3
246

Analysis: More than a sack artist, Miller has shown coverage skills that complement known pass-rush production. Fits a 3-4. Great Indy workouts; steady stock. Last week: No. 4

5
A.J. Green *
WR
6-4
211

Analysis: Premier wideout in the draft. Good route-runner, great size and hands, and speed is fine (4.48). A complete player. Last week: No. 6



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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