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Want to be prepared for this year's draft, then get the 2008 NFL Draft Bible. Want to know who's on our radar for '09, then check out the latest preview from our small-school expert Josh Buchanan.
Over the next few weeks I will highlight some small school players to watch for next season that scouts have already taken notice of. In each installment I will highlight some names who will be on the NFL radar this coming season. WR/RS JEREMY GILCHRIST, HAMPTON, 5094, 180lbs, 4.44 40
For those looking for a productive FBS transfer with good size/speed measurables you have found your prospect. Gilchrist transferred from Virginia Tech for the ’06 season because he wanted more playing time and obviously he got his wish. After getting used to his new surroundings in 2006 he broke out in ’07 with 1,043 yards receiving and 10 total touchdowns. He earned All-America nods as a return specialist for his explosive ability on special teams. Blocking is his biggest weakness offensively but he flashes the hands, burst, quickness, and versatility that will intrigue teams. He has a chance to earn a late day one to mid round grade heading into the season.
OT RYAN DELROSAL, DIXIE STATE, 6044, 296lbs, 4.94 40
The media and most fans have not thought to check out Dixie State as they are in just their 2nd year of D2 football. He weighed 296 in the spring but should be over 300 by the start of the year. He has the size, footwork, and pass blocking skills to earn a look heading into the season. He signed with South Florida out of high school but did not qualify so he took a semester off and went to a community college. After that he went to Florida International and then left due to an academic mistake. Some might question his grades but he currently has over a 3.0 GPA, according to those I interviewed. He will be a sleeper right tackle prospect to keep an eye on with a chance at a late round or priority free agent grade entering the year.
CB JACKIE BATES, HAMPTON, 5101, 185lbs, 4.23 40
Looking for the fastest player at the 2009 NFL Scouting Combine? Look no further than Jackie bates. If he is invited to the event, there is a good chance he burns across the finish line faster than anyone else. His blazing times so far would be the best at the 2008 NFL Scouting Combine, if he had come out this past year. He has ran in the 4.22/4.27 range previously and displays that great speed on the field. His biggest weakness is dropping prospective interceptions but is physical, good in cover 2, and doesn’t give up the big play. He does have red flags with a previous suspension at Oregon and a broken bone in lower left leg during 2006 but is fully recovered and made adjustments in his life to correct the mistake at Oregon. Bates will probably get a late round grade heading into the season but has the talent to be a mid round pick, if he proves those red flags are no longer an issue.
CB PETE ITTERSAGEN, WHEATON, 5101, 190lbs, 4.47 40
Ittersagen comes from a D3 school and is sure to get no attention until the postseason next year because of that. For those who follow the small schools closely know about this underrated and very dangerous player. His size/speed combo is the first thing that jumps out, then you watch tape and see his speed, return ability, and the way he makes those pay who throw his way. He finished the season with 3 interceptions and 18 pass breakups to earn consensus All-America honors as a CB and 2nd team plaudits as a return man. His 404 yards and 2 touchdowns on punt returns are very impressive as well. He has the tools to earn a solid late round grade entering the season.
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