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Football Predictions

2008 NFL draft: Defensive ends

1) Chris Long-Virginia: 6-4,275

What the scouts are saying:
Long is a dominant run-stopper and came on as a pass-rusher as a senior. However, may not have the speed to be a huge pass-rush threat in the pros. Does possess a tenacious motor and has the strength to be at the least disruptive in the backfield. He knows the intricacies of the game better then some veterans and will be a leader from day one. May not have the pass-rush flare, but is viewed as a guy who will go 100MPH all the time and consistently be around the ball.

My Dish:
One really has to wonder if Long is as good as the hype or if its just overplayed because of his pedigree. nmHe wasn't dominating until his senior season, but then again Virginia didn't have a lot of star talent around him. Plus, they ran a three-four defense, so it's difficult to gage his true pass-rush nature. Regardless, he's clearly a top five pick and will be an instant fan-favorite who will likely have a long and productive NFL career.

2) Derrick Harvey-Florida: 6-5, 252

What the scouts are saying:
Is the best pure pass-rusher in the draft. Doesn't have the size or strength to be overly effective against the run, but isn't a give up type of guy and will chase players down. Is a good tackler who has a knack for big hits. Will play big in big games, a tendency that tends to get scouts attention.

My Dish:
If you want a guy who'll give you double digit sacks, Harvey's your man. He's been rising up the charts and seems likely to go top ten. Harvey, in my opinion, will be this year's most productive player. He has the ferocity and mind-set to make up for his lack of bulk and given time will be the next great NFL pass-rusher.

3) Vernon Gholston-Ohio State: 6-4, 258

What the scouts are saying:
Gholston is an extremely athletic and exceptionally tough pass-rush threat. He's a workout warrior who had scouts gushing over his build at the combine. He's quick off the snap and will bull-rush lineman to get to the QB. Lacks the ideal size to be a consistent run stopper, but like Harvey is a relentless pursuer. Is a good tackler who has some teams viewing him as a LB in the 3-4 mold.

My Dish:
I think it was Pro Football Talk that raised the comparison to Mike Mamula, which seems to be fitting. His stock has been rising and he likely catapults Harvey in the draft, but I'm not convinced that he isn't one of those guys who got by on athleticism in college only to find himself struggling in the pros.

4)


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2008 NFL draft: Defensive ends

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    by Jon Hovland

    1) Chris Long-Virginia: 6-4,275 What the scouts are saying: Long is a dominant run-stopper and came on as a pass-... read more

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