With the 2007 NFL Draft about to happen, it is time to take one final look at the five Penn State prospects who figure to be taken this year. For an unbiased view, we asked Scout.com draft expert Tom Marino to break down the Nittany Lions for us.
Marino has three decades of experience as an NFL scout. Before joining Scout.com this year, he spent the last six seasons ranking players for the St. Louis Rams. Prior to that he worked for the New Orleans Saints, New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.
Here is what Marino has to say about the five Lions who are likely to be drafted this weekend.
Levi Brown
Offensive Tackle
Round No. 1
Big, physical tackle. Long arms with really good power. Fits on blocks well. Good balance and ability to recover. May start on the right side with a real chance to develop into a solid left tackle. Some inconsistency in his kick and slide (width and depth). I rank him third at this position behind Thomas and Staley.
Paul Posluszny
Linebacker
Round 1 (late)
Ranked with A.J. Hawk at the conclusion of '05, but injured a knee vs. FSU in the Orange Bowl. Moved to middle linebacker in '06 and one has to remember he was only nine months post-injury at the start of the season. Early on, had his knee braced and combined with his new position, results were mixed. Went to lighter brace later in the season and was really came. Smart and experienced. Good playing range and instincts. Not a "take-on, down-hill" player. Should play quickly.
Tony Hunt
Running Back
Round 2 (early)
A one back with similar playing style to Larry Johnson (but doesn't have the same type of juice). Strong between-the-tackles runner. Ball control back. Good hands and catching skills.
Jay Alford
Defensive Tackle
Round 3-4
Very good combine workout. Has quickness, good balance and control. One-gap player who has good playing range. Like this guy. Has some up-field rush skills.
Tim Shaw
Linebacker
Round 4
Tough, physical with very good speed. Doesn't have top vision and is a bit of a straight-liner. Good special teams potential while he develops at the "Sam” 'backer position.
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