Commentary

New names on the Big Board

A trio of talented defensive players are the new additions to the Big Board this week

Originally Published: November 2, 2011
By Mel Kiper Jr. | ESPN Insider

A trio of new names land on the Big Board this week, and there is still some chance for moves this season, before we get into the draft process. While the top of the Board is dominated by some big offensive names at quarterback, offensive tackle and running back, this week, everybody new comes from the defensive side of the ball.

Read on and let me know who you think should be higher. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.

1
Andrew Luck *
AGE: 22
DOB: 9/12/89
HT: 6-4
WT: 235
POS: QB
Comp 174
Att 242
Pct 71.9
Yds 2,218
TD 23
Int 4

Another great week, and while Luck has some good targets, they aren't elite; he makes everyone look better. He's the total package. Arm strength, size, smarts, demeanor. A safe bet to be No. 1 overall.

LAST WEEK: 1 | PLAYER CARD

2
Matt Kalil *
AGE: 22
DOB: 7/6/89
HT: 6-7
WT: 295
POS: OT
GP 8
GS 8

A good week for the USC offense, and Kalil is a big part of it. He'll remind you of former No. 1 overall pick Jake Long, an athletic left tackle who has the full set of skills, both as a pass-blocker, and a strong, capable run-blocker.

LAST WEEK: 2 | PLAYER CARD

3
Trent Richardson *
AGE: 20
DOB: 7/10/91
HT: 5-11
WT: 224
POS: RB
Car 149
Yds 989
Avg. 6.6
TD 15

Showcase week. Richardson has come on after splitting carries in his first two seasons, something that benefits him in the eyes of scouts. Powerful, fast, with improved vision, he runs with good pad level and breaks tackles with ease.

LAST WEEK: 3 | PLAYER CARD

4
Landry Jones *
AGE: 22
DOB: 4/22/89
HT: 6-4
WT: 229
POS: QB
Comp 236
Att 355
Pct 66.5
Yds 3,094
TD 26
Int 9

He's had some misses this year, but I still like the way he's battled so far in 2011. He has some INTs, but accuracy is still very good. Good size, strong arm, needs to improve footwork, particularly in traffic.

LAST WEEK: 4 | PLAYER CARD

5
Justin Blackmon *
AGE: 21
DOB: 1/9/90
HT: 6-1
WT: 208
POS: WR
Rec 74
Yds 834
Avg 11.3
TD 10

Dominating week after week. He is a better prospect than recent OSU star Dez Bryant. Versatile and explosive and really works to get open. Great ball skills; breaks tackles. Exceptional work ethic.

LAST WEEK: 5 | PLAYER CARD


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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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