June 2017 mag by Gridiron Football

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Andrew Bryson, Owner/Publisher LGF

STAFF Andy Bryson- Owner/Publisher

Laura Norsworthy– Senior Editor

Kristen Bryson– Editor

Phil Blanchard– Dir. Of Marketing

Jason Saucier– Photographer

Christian Moore– High School FB

Patrick Mchaffey– Writer www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

By: John Paul Guidry DPT CSCS TPI

It is getting that time of year where we are getting back out in our yards, participating in outdoor recreational activities and sports and just being more active in general. Inevitably some of us will experience some acute onset aches and pains as a result of new or increased activity. Today I want to talk a little about managing these aches and pains so they do not turn into something more. I will add the disclaimer that this is not medical advice and if you feel like you have suffered a significant injury or have symptoms of a serious medical event, please go to your nearest ER or contact your doctor immediately. Some of you may have heard of the RICE or PRICE method for managing acute injury. PRICE stands for pretty straight forward, there are a few tips that I would add. Don't ice Protect Rest Ice Compression Elevation. A study by over a numb area or open wound. If the skin is numb, you won't notice if Bleakley, Glasgow and MacAuley 2012 in the British you're developing an ice burn and ice on an open wound could risk an Journal of Sports Medicine has suggested these ac- infection. Be wary of ice burns – don't apply ice directly to the skin, wrap ronyms need updating and have recommended us- an ice pack in a clean, damp towel before applying. Avoid prolonged exing the acronym POLICE. POLICE stands for Protect posure to ice, 10-20 minutes is usually adequate and be careful applying Optimal Loading Ice Compression Elevation, and this the ice with too much pressure (e.g. resting your leg on the ice bag). A seems to be a better way to manage acute pain and good plan is to ice for 10-20 minutes a few times a day for the first week injury. after injury if needed and stop if increased swelling or pain are noted Protection can come in many forms such as dewith icing. As for compression, make sure you do not wrap too tight encreased loading, utilizing assistive devices such as suring there is good circulation distal to the wrap. Elevation can also be crutches, cane, walker, boot or cast etc. These are an effective way to help reduce swelling after an acute injury. The goals to be used in the very early stages after injury. As of this method are to initially reduce pain and inflammation and to profor optimal loading, I will refer you to Tom Goom in gress back to activity as soon as tolerable all while respecting the normal his recent article “Acute Injury Management” on healing process. As always if you utilize these techniques and things do www.running-physio.com: not get better or they get worse, do not waste time seeking a consult “Why replace rest with “optimal loading”? While with a qualified medical professional as soon as you need. As always, if rest may be helpful in the very short term, continwe can be of service at Guidry Physical Therapy, please feel free to conued rest may lead to deconditioning of the tissues – tact us at 985.882.8427 or Johnpaul@guidrypt.com. Thank you. joint stiffness, muscle weakness and tightness and reduced proprioception (control and balance). Optimal loading will stimulate the healing process as bone, tendon, ligament and muscle all require some loading to stimulate healing. The right amount of activity can help manage swelling. The key word www.guidrypt.com here is optimal. In some cases optimal loadJohn Paul Guidry DPT, CSCS JohnPaul@guidrypt.com ing may be no loading. Unstable fractures, 61700 Hwy 434 Unit D Phone (985) 882-8427 complete tendon ruptures etc. are unlikely Lacombe, La 70445 Fax (985) 882-8429 to benefit from loading and may require casting, bracing or surgical repair. There is no recipe for this, each situation needs to be WE OFFER ONE HOUR 1 TO 1 TREATME T WITH A DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY managed based on the person and their injury and usually under the guidance of a health professional.” While ice, compression and elevation are www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

CONTENTS

LSU Duke Riley during the Senior Bowl

Upcoming Issues June

Recapping the Draft and NFL Free Agency

July

Tailgating Super Issue

August NFL Preseason Sept

College Preseason

Oct-Dec Season Updates Jan

All-Louisiana Team

Feb

Louisiana Players Entering The Draft

March College Recruiting April

NFL Draft

May

Look At Spring Football

Where you can pick up an issue: Baton Rouge: City News Stand, Denham Springs: Double Click Solutions, Balloon Mania, Gonzales: Ralphs Market, Slidell: Camille City Donuts, iSupply, Lacombe: Guidry Physical Therapy, Prarieview: Ralphs Market

6 6 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 28 28 29 29 30 30 31 31 32 33 37 38

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6.1.17

Cleveland Browns Chicago Bears San Francisco 49ers Jacksonville Jaguars Tennessee Titans NY Jets Los Angles Chargers Carolina Panthers Cincinnati Bengals Kansas City Chiefs New Orleans Saints Houston Texans Arizona Cardinals Philadelphia Eagles Indianapolis Colts Baltimore Ravens Washington Redskins Tampa Bay Buccaneers Denver Broncos Detroit Lions Miami Dolphins NY Giants Oakland Raiders Interview With Grambling's DeVante Kincade Atlanta Falcons Buffalo Bills Dallas Cowboys Pittsburgh Steelers Green Bay Packers Seattle Seahawks Las Angles Rams New England Patriots Minnesota Vikings Drafted: Louisiana Players In The Draft 2017 Louisiana Players in the NFL Hometown Legend Shines in Super Bowl 4

Dear Readers, I want to personally thank you for getting this magazine. Here at Louisiana Gridiron Football (LGF), our mission is to bring you the inside scoop from all 12 Louisiana College/University teams and 32 NFL teams. In this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue we were privileged to interview Grambling States National Champion quarterback, DeVante Kincade. We also have the 32 NFL teams draft picks and rookie mini camp progress reports. Next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue is a do-not-miss! We are doing our first ever, tailgate super issue. Included will be recipes, photos, tailgate planning ideas, and a few surprises. Not to worry there will still be interviews and football news too. Before you know it regular pre-season will begin. I myself eagerly anticipate all the football to come this year. If you are like me, and have difficulty going without football for any extended length of time, check out our website www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com for articles, statistics, and analysis of high schools, college, NFL , and even some semi-professional football. Sincerely,

A. Bryson

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The Browns made a huge splash in this years draft by taking two picks and turning it into three first round picks. Miles Garrett looks the part of a true NFL pass rusher, then the Browns traded the 12th overall pick to the Texans and for the PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-1

Myles Garrett

6’4

272

Texas A&M

1-25

Jabrill Peppers

5’11 213

1-29

David Njoku

6’4

246

Miami

2-20

DeShone Kizer

6’4

233

Notre Dame

3-1

Larry Ogunjobi

6’3

305

N.C. Charlotte

4-20

Howard Wilson

6’1

184

Houston

5-16

Roderick Johnson

6’7

298

Florida St.

6-1

Caleb Brantley

6’03 307

7-6

Zane Gonzalez

7-34

Matt Dayes

6’

202

5’09 205

Browns to select the most versatile player in this years draft, Jabrill Peppers. The Browns then traded back into the first round and selected tight end David Njoku. I have my doubts about Garrett since he never really performed well against SEC opponents so I don’t know how he will do in the NFL. He has all the tools to be a game changer, so will have to watch his development.

Michigan

Florida Arizona State N.C. State

The Bears this season needed a whole lot of talent in order to make a difference, and it remains unclear as to whether or not they have successfully completed this task. While it is risky from a coaching standpoint to get a franchise quarterback when the head coach is currently in the hot seat; it should be noted that from a marketing standpoint it made total sense. Chicago Bears fans have been longing for a true franchise quarterback for years, so Trubisky likely will be marketing gold. The Bears need a lot of assistance in that department since Jay Cutler has never lived up to the hype coming out of college and signing a franchise contract several years ago. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-2

Mitchell Trubisky

6’2

222

North Carolina

2-13

Adam Shaheen

6’6

278

Ashland

4-5

Eddie Jackson

6’0

201

Alabama

4-13

Tarik Cohen

5’6

179

N. Carolina A&T

5-3

Jordan Morgan

6’3

309

Kutztown (PA)

I like their second round pick in DeShone Kizer. At Notre Dame he didn’t win as much as he would have liked to. But in an interview with the NFL, he said that he thought he was better equipped to start in the NFL because of his losses in college. He knew how to prepare after a loss, unlike a few of the quarterbacks taken ahead of him in the draft. During the rookie mini camps in May, he showed his ability to throw every pass in the playbook and some. His coaches have remarked on several occasion's that his progress has been better than expected. I look forward to watching DeShone develop since the Browns are under no pressure to start him this season.

Addressing another issue from last season, the Bears picked TE Adam Shaheen out of Ashland. Shaheen, like several others, is a former basketball standout and a skillset like Jimmy Graham, and Tony Gonzalez. Last season TE Zach Miller suffered another injury, and although they addressed the need in free-agency by signing Dion Sims, they need more stability at this spot. Ideally, Miller will stay healthy this year and the Bears will have a triple threat at tight end. Shaheen also has great size which will provide a great deal of coverage for Glennon and eventually for Trubisky. The Bears had trouble at Safety last season so I get their pick of Eddie Jackson from Alabama. However having already suffered injuries, it is unclear if this pick will pan out in this year. Adding to the roster Tarik Cohen is nicknamed “the Human Joystick” for his ability to change in direction. The Bears didn't have anyone like Cohen on the roster, so ideally he complements the bruising style of Pro Bowl running back Jordan Howard. The Bears are hoping that Cohen develops into the next Darren Sproles, whom Ryan Pace overlapped with in New Orleans. On the whole the Bears took a lot of risks this year in the Draft. I know Bears Nation will be hoping that all of the Bear’s long odds will pay off.

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With two first round picks in this year’s draft, the 49ers did a world of good. They have dramatically improved their defense with the additions of Solomon Thomas from Stanford and Reuben Foster from Alabama. Their speed and strengths will add to PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-3

Solomon Thomas

6’3

273

Stanford

1-31

Reuben Foster

6’0

229

Alabama

3-2

Ahkello Witherspoon CB

6’3

198

Colorado

3-40

C.J. Beathard

6’2

219

Iowa

4-15

Joe Williams

5’11

210

Utah

5-2

George Kittle

6’4

247

Iowa

5-34

Trent Taylor

5’8

181

Louisiana Tech

6-14

D.J. Jones

6’1

319

Mississippi

6-18

Pita Taumoepenu

OLB

6’1

243

Utah

7-11

Adrian Colbert

6’0

200

Miami

With the number four overall pick in the draft the Jacksonville Jaguars drafted the most dynamic and prolific player in the draft, Leonard Fournette. Fournette can be the boost the Jags have been looking for in the running game since MJD. Coming out of LSU, he is being compared to Adrian Peterson and Bo Jackson, because he has the big game potential with the combination of his size, speed, and strength. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-4

Leonard Fournette

6’0 240

2-2

Cam Robinson

6’6

322

Alabama

3-4

Dawuane Smoot

6’3

264

Illinois

4-3

Dede Westbrook

6’0

178

Oklahoma

5-4

Blair Brown

5’11 238

Ohio

7-4

Jalen Myrick

5’10 200

Minnesota

7-22

Marquez Williams

5’10 259

Miami

LSU

the overall depth on the defensive side of the ball along with the addition of Ahkello Witherspoon (CB), Georte Kittle (TE), D.J. Jones (DT), Pita Taumoepenu (OLB), Adrian Colbert (DB) all will contribute to the improved defense. Despite this bulk up on defense the offensive side of the ball is still going to need some improvement in this next season. After they cut Colin Kaepernick this season they signed Brian Hoyer and Matt Barkley. Neither of these two is in my opinion is going to be a long term solution. Of the two Brian Hoyer has had a better season and will likely start out this season as the starting quarterback. With the addition of C.J. Beathard the 49ers were probably hoping to add some competition to the spot of quarterback and improve the quality of whichever quarterback they select. Trent Taylor was one of their best pick ups with his ability to go across the middle to make catches. Taylor is an impressive receiver and he should help whichever quarterback they pick. He is a born first down maker.

Jacksonville had a lot of needs but after drafting Fournette, offensive lineman, Cam Robinson, and wide receiver Westbrook, the Jags have a much improved offense. Quarterback Blake Bortles is entering his fourth season and after this years draft, he will have the most weapons around him since being drafted in 2014. My predictions for 2017 for the Jags is that they could become the team to beat in the AFC South. In 2015, Bortles passed for 4,428 yards and 35 TD’s. He could easily have a better season since 2015 since he no longer has to carry this team offensively.

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During this year’s draft the Titans management went after a lot of weapons for their young franchise quarterback Marcus Mariota. Going into his third season in the NFL, Mariota needs all the protection and support he can get in order to mature into the quarterback the Titans hope he can be. They set him up with an upgraded offensive line and several receivers to help him grow. Corey Davis and Taywan Taylor are both quick receivers with good ability to field catches under pressure. They will relieve a lot of pressure off the run game with their quick bursts of speed. Adoree’ Jackson was a good defensive pick for the Titans who can contribute this season. Although he is small for an outside cornerback, he does have experience on special teams and will be able to help both on defense and kickoff returns. All in all the Titans’ picks seem to all point to making Mariota last and work in the long term.

PICK

Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

1-5

Corey Davis

6’3

209 Western Michigan

1-18

Adoree' Jackson

5-10

186 USC

3-8

Taywan Taylor

5-11

203 W. Kentucky

3-36

Jonnu Smith

6-3

248 Fl. International

5-11

Jayon Brown

6-0

231 UCLA

6-34

Corey Levin

6-4

307 Tenn. Chattanooga

7-9

Josh Carraway

OLB

6-3

242 TCU

7-18

Brad Seaton

6-7

310 Villanova

7-23

Khalfani Muhammad

5-7

170 California

The JETS drafted the best defensive back in the draft in Jamal Adams. LSU has become DBU producing prolific DBs such as Tyrann Mathieu and Patrick Peterson. LSU currently has the most DB’s in the NFL with 8. Adams ran a blazing 4.33 forty yard dash at his pro day at LSU. With his speed and bone crushing hits, he a much needed upgrade in the Jets defense. With the Jets still trying to rebuild the offense, they are building a defense that wont give up that many points. This is going to give them plenty of time to groom whomever they have calling the offensive plays. I liked their pick up of UL’s Elijah McGuire. He can do several things out of the backfield to take the pressure off of his quarterback. As both a receiving back and a speed back, his ability to make defenders miss is uncanny. The Houma native is sure to be a big hit in the Big Apple. Overall, the Jets drafted for depth in hopes of finding a few gems. In my opinion, the Jets picked up the sure fire star in Adams but threw darts at a dartboard in hopes of finding quality players. McGuire is a quality back, but with several injury concerns. Jordan Leggett has big play potential, but we will have to wait to see how he develops in the NFL.

PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-6

Jamal Adams

6'0

214

LSU

2-7

Marcus Maye

6’0

210

Florida

3-15

ArDarius Stewart

5’11

204

Alabama

4-35

Chad Hansen

6’2

202

California

5-6

Jordan Leggett

6’5

258

Clemson

5-38

Dylan Donahue

6’3

248

West Georgia

6-4

Elijah McGuire

5’10

214

Louisiana-Lafayette

6-13

Jeremy Clark

6’3

220

Michigan

6-20

Derrick Jones

6’2

188

Mississippi

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Along with tackle Sam Tevi, layers of protection will help to protect Rivers who is now 35 and keep him healthy. The enhanced offensive line will also help to protect the Charger’s investment from last year’s draft, running back Melvin Gordon. With 1,638 career yards, Gordon has already made an impact that the Chargers want to continue into the next season. While rumors lay thick on the ground about the scouting of a potential future replacement for Phillip Rivers, the Chargers management seem to have a different idea for the future. In this years draft the Chargers upgraded the offensive line with guards Forrest Lamp and Dan Feeney. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-7

Mike Williams

6’4

218

Clemson

2-6

Forrest Lamp

6’4

309 Western Kentucky

3-7

Dan Feeney

6’4

305

Indiana

4-6

Rayshawn Jenkins

6’1

214

Miami

5-7

Desmond King

5’10

201

Iowa

6-6

Sam Tevi

6’5

311

Utah

7-7

Isaac Rochell

6’4

280

Notre Dame

After a super bowl appearance in 2015, the Panthers took three steps back in 2016. Injuries and a lack of production in the running game kept Cam Newton on his back most of the season. The Panthers spent the offseason working on their issues both in the run game and passing game. PICK

Name

POS

1-8

Christian McCaffrey

2-8

SCHOOL

5’11 202

Stanford

Curtis Samuel

5’11 196

Ohio St.

2-32

Taylor Moton

6’5

319 Western Michigan

3-13

Daeshon Hall

6’5

266

5-8

Corn Elder

5’10 183

6-8

Alex Armah

6’2

253

West Georgia

7-15

Harrison Butker

6’4

199

Georgia Tech

Texas A&M Miami

Mike Williams the Wide Receiver was also drafted with the hope that he would add to the weapons for quarterback Phillip Rivers, however a back injury on the first day of training camp has put his ability to make a difference this season in question. While coaches and trainers remain hopeful, Williams is getting behind while missing training camp. Rounding out their draft, the Chargers picked two safeties to enhance their defensive game. Their picks of Rayshawn Jenkins and Desmond King are good picks. Rayshawn has good size and strengths not to mention a fighting spirit. Desmond King on the other hand is a built quarterback reader. He is a pattern reader with anticipation to keep him ahead of the route. King is obsessed with getting the ball (He had 14 interceptions in college and 29 in high school).

Christian McCaffrey looks to live up to the family tradition that his father made at Denver. All Pro wide receiver Ed McCaffrey was a two time super bowl champion in the late ‘90’s. Christian is much like his father. A hard worker both on and off the field. He is a multidimensional back that can either line up in the back field or he can line up in the slot and play receiver. Curtis Samuel is a speedy guy who will play in the slot and will help in freeing up Benjamin on the outside. By drafting him, this causes a horrible mismatch on the inside because you have to pull a defender from the outside. The addition of McCaffrey and Samuel can be the difference in returning to atop of the NFC South, probably the toughest division in the NFL with the past two super bowl contenders coming from the same division. The Panthers, Falcons, Saints, and the Buccaneers all could be playoff teams in 2017.

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The Bengals were definitely looking to beef up their offense which was somewhat restricted last season. Clearly they wanted to build up the line around Andy Dalton QB and give him some serious weapons on the field. A.J. Green will benefit from having someone else talented on the field to draw attention away from him. John Ross from Washington is just such a player. He is fast (ran a 4.22 forty yard dash) and has good vision. If he is able to stay healthy , Ross will be a true asset to the team. Joe Mixon running back out of Oklahoma was also drafted this year. He is a powerful running back and will provide competition for Jeremy Hill. Hill thrives on competition so this addition will likely goad him to even greater heights. The Bengals management definitely got a great pick in Mixon. He is first round talent and if he can stay out of trouble, Mixon will be a great addition to the Bengal’s roster for years to come. Look for the Bengals to have some offensive prowess this season. I would also look to see an improved specials team presence with their picks this season.

The Chiefs made one the biggest splashes in the draft by moving all the way up to number 10 to draft Patrick Mahomes. This was a huge surprise with Alex Smith still playing at a high level. However, this move gives the Chiefs time to groom the future of the team by not having to insert him in the game too early. Mahomes will spend the 2017 season learning the speed of the game, as well as learning how to read defenses. Coming from the Air Raid offense, which typically causes a much slower learning curve, Mahomes will be able to learn from an Pro Bowl quarterback. Mahomes stated in an interview this offseason that his playing ability is very close to an Aaron Rogers. If that is so, then riding the pine for a year (like Rogers) will be the best scenario. In the second round the Chiefs went after a small school guy but big play ability, defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon. At 6’7”, he is force on the edge and causes a lot of disruption in the passing game.

PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-9

John Ross

5’11

188

Washington

2-16

Joe Mixon

6-1

226

Oklahoma

3-9

Jordan Willis

OLB

6-4

255

Kansas St.

4-9

Carl Lawson

OLB

6-2

261

Auburn

4-22

Josh Malone

6-3

208

Tennessee

4-32

Ryan Glasgow

6-3

302

Michigan

5-9

Jake Elliott

5-9

167

Memphis

5-33

J.J. Dielman

6-5

309

Utah

6-9

Jordan Evans

6-2

233

Oklahoma

6-23

Brandon Wilson

5-11

200

Houston

7-33

Mason Schreck

6-5

253

Buffalo

I like the pick up of Kareen Hunt in the third round from Toledo. I thought he could have been drafted much higher. Him falling into the third round was a bit of a surprise. The Chiefs are already in playoff contention under Andy Reid. So drafting the future QB was not a bad move. I like their second and third round picks because both of those guys could make an immediate impact as rookies. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-10

Patrick Mahomes

6’2

225

Texas Tech

2-27 Tanoh Kpassagnon

6’7

289

Villanova

3-22

Kareem Hunt

5’10

216

Toledo

4-33

Jehu Chesson

6’3

204

Michigan

5-40

Ukeme Eligwe

6’2

239

Georgia Southern

6-35

Leon McQuay III

6’2

185

USC

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The Saints entered the draft with dire need on defense. The Saints landed the best cover corner in the draft and one of the top safeties in college with their second round pick. They did address the lack of depth along the offensive line with their second first round pick they acquired in a trade with the Patriots for receiver Brandon Cooks. Ryan Ramczyk will be looked upon to replace aging right tackle Zach Strief. Round 1, Pick 11 (11) Marshon Lattimore CB 6'0" 193 Ohio St. Pick Analysis: "I'm amazed that he fell to No. 11. His upside is amazing. His ball skills are a true reality. Rarely gets called for pass interference even though he's a one-year guy. ... I think that he could be Aqib Talib some years down the road." -Mike Mayock With only one year as a full time starter for the Buckeyes, the Saints hope that his hamstrings are fully recovered. If he is healthy, he will be a much needed upgrade and will team up with the best young corner in the game, Delvin Breaux. Together they could become the best corner duo in the NFL.

Pick Analysis: "He could not have gotten a better match for his talents with a play-caller and a system than what Sean Payton runs in New Orleans. What he could do with Reggie Bush out of the backfield -- run the ball, throw it to him, put him in different mismatches -they can do with Kamara. They're gonna need that if Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram are gonna run the ball. This is what he gives them." -- Charles Davis Alvin is a unique pick. The Saints traded away next years second round pick to move up to draft him. Now with Alvin, the Saints have a three-headed monster in the backfield. Alvin is going to play more of a Darren Sproles type of role. The Saints have two backs that can get the hard yards between the tackles and now a fast back that can come out of the backfield and make catches and separate himself from defenses.

Round 3, Pick 12 (76) Alex Anzalone LB 6'3" 241 Florida Pick Analysis: "He's got great size and athletic ability. He's a starting linebacker traits-wise. Durability is an issue, especially with his shoulders. I like his vision. He's going to play on passing downs because he can rush the quarterback and cover." -- Mike Mayock The reason Alex fell to the third round involved questions Round 1, Pick 32 (32) Ryan Ramczyk OT 6'6" 310 Wisconsin Pick Analysis: "He's a technician even though he's only a about his health. When healthy, he was one of the top linebackers in one-year starter at Wisconsin. He's a day-one starter on the right all of college football. side. They pair him with Terron Armstead. Drew Brees is a happy Round 3, Pick 39 (103) Trey Hendrickson OLB 6'4" 266 Fla Atlantic guy." -- Mike Mayock Pick Analysis: "I like this guy. Daniel Jeremiah and I showed With an aging Zach Strief, the Saints needed to get up at the East-West Shrine Game and we both kind of went nuts over better up front to help keep their All-Pro QB healthy. Andrus this guy. Six-four, 266, he sticks his hand in the dirt and boy does he Peat was drafted two years ago to step in as the future tackle, come after people. And then what I really liked -- people say he has last season due to health issues he has moved inside. This has short arms and bla bla bla -- but then he went to the combine and left a need to fill again on the right side. tested extremely well. So you've got an effort motor guy with really good measurables, except for the short arms. And all I'm telling you Round 2, Pick 10 (42) Marcus Williams S 6'1" 202 Utah Pick Analysis: "They got a corner in the first round with is New Orleans needs to affect the pass game and he's going to be one of those guys that can stick his hand in the dirt or stand up deMarcus Lattimore. Now they get a free safety, a center-fielder. They've got to affect the pass game. They were by far the worst pending on what they need." -- Mike Mayock Trey will most likely play defensive end in the Saints defense in football against the pass." -- Mike Mayock Marcus is probably the best value pick in the draft. With scheme. I like this pick because Trey has a huge motor and can beat this pickup, the Saints just filled two needs on the defense. This tackles into the backfield. He can finally be the complement to Camwill allow Von Bell to play strong safety and Kenny Vaccaro to lay eron Jordan on the line. in the box. This will give the Saints a 42 look on passing downs and if Stephone Anthony returns healthy, this could put the best Round 6, Pick 12 (196) Al-Quadin Muhammad DE 6'3" 253 Miami Pick Analysis: If Muhammad is serious about football this 11 players on the field. pick could really pay off for a Saints defense in dire need of playmakRound 3, Pick 3 (67) Alvin Kamara RB 5'10" 214 Tennessee ing athletes. He's the type of risk you take a chance on at this point in the draftâ&#x20AC;? --Mark Dulgerian www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Bill O’brian may have found the next quarterback in Deshaun Watson. The former National Champion quarterback from Clemson is extremely talented, but there are questions surrounding him about will his talents will translate to the NFL. This couldn’t have been a better landing spot for Watson, because Bill has developed some great quarterbacks. One in particular is Tom Brady. I am sure you have heard of him. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-12

Deshaun Watson

6’2

221

Clemson

2-25

Zach Cunningham

6’3

234

Vanderbilt

3-25

D'Onta Foreman

6’0

233

Texas

4-24

Julie'n Davenport

6’7

318

Bucknell

4-36

Carlos Watkins

6’3

309

Clemson

5-25

Treston Decoud

6’2

206

Oregon St.

7-25

Kyle Fuller

6’5

307

Baylor

The Cardinals had a pretty impressive draft. I think this could be their best draft ever. I like all five of their first five picks esp. Chad Williams and Will Holden. Looking at their potential, they both have the ability develop into All-Pro players. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-13

Haason Reddick

6’1

237

Temple

2-4

Budda Baker

5’10 195

3-34

Chad Williams

6’1

204

Grambling St.

4-8

Dorian Johnson

6’5

300

Pittsburg

5-13

Will Holden

6’7

311

Vanderbilt

5-36

T.J. Logan

5’9

196

North Carolina

6-24

Rudy Ford

5’11 205

Washington

Auburn

When Bill was head coach for the Penn State Nittany Lions, he turned around a program that was in utter chaos after all the legal troubles. He won nine games in his first season with a team that had been depleted with talent due to the NCAA allowing players to transfer and not having to wait the required one year transferred rule. My favorite pick for the Texans is D’Onta Foreman for the University of Texas. He lead the nation in 2016 with rushing yards. He ran for 2028 yards with a 6.3 yard per carry. He also had 15 touchdowns in 2016. After watching his film, I think he could be a diamond in the rough. Time is running out for the Texans as their top defensive players are starting to get older and more injury prone. If Deshaun Watson is as good as advertised, the Texans may be able to challenge the NFC North for a Divisional Championship.

The Cardinals drafted the top inside linebacker (Haason Reddick) in the draft then in the second round they select the third best safety (Budda Baker) in this class. Both of these guys will be expected to make an immediate impact as rookies. Since arriving to the rookie mini camps, Chad Williams has made his presence known. Larry Fitzgerald has even taken notice and said that “Chad Williams has hands like Anquan Boldin,” in a recent interview. I think he can become the next Charlie Joiner from Grambling. Charlie Joiner was the original All Time receiver until Jerry Rice broke his records. Charlie had 12,146 career receiving yards in 18 seasons. He played from 1969 to 1986 in a time when the passing game was not as utilized as it is today. I think Will Holden will become another gem in this class. He will most likely be a right tackle or play guard. He is strong at the base of attack and his wide frame makes it difficult for defenders to run through. He lacks the arm length and foot speed to play left tackle, but I do believe after watching his film that he could develop nicely on the inside of the line or right side.

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The Eagles may have gotten the biggest steal in the draft in the second round. Sidney Jones fell to the second round because of an injury at his Pro Day. I graded him as the best cover corner in this years draft. "Popular choice in Philadelphia. Before he got hurt, Philly wanted Sidney Jones at No. 14. He reminds me of Marcus Peters, another Washington Husky. What I love about him is he's got instincts, he's got ball skills and he will tackle even though he's lean at 186." -- Mike Mayock Derek Barnett is arguably one of the top prospects in this draft. He is coming from the top conference in the country and has the performance to back up a the fact he could have been a top five pick. I like the Eagles fourth round pick of wide receiver Mack Hollins. He has the range to become a good red zone threat.

The Colts are quickly falling to the bottom of the NFC South. While the rest of the division is getting better, the Colts have just stayed the course. Andrew Luck is still the light of this team, but he is one man. This years first round pick Malik Hooker was once rated as high or higher than fellow first round safety Jamal Adams. So the hope is high on him that he is able to walk in day one and be a leader on an ailing defense. I am not too sold on their second round pick Quincy Wilson from Florida because he, at times, was lost on the field in the SEC. However fourth round pick Zack Banner could be a gem. “Banner is a massive, run-blocking specialist who could help a Colts run game that ranked 22nd in rush yards/attempt. The question is if he can prove reliable enough in pass protection to earn a starting role down the line.” Mark Dulgerian, NFL Analyst.

PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-14

Derek Barnett

6’3

259

Tennessee

2-11

Sidney Jones

6’0

186

Washington

3-35

Rasul Douglas

6’2

209

West Virginia

4-12

Mack Hollins

6’4

221

North Carolina

4-26

Donnel Pumphrey

5’8

176

San Diego St.

5-22

Shelton Gibson

5’11

191

West Virginia

5-41

Nate Gerry

6’2

218

Nebraska

6-31

Elijah Qualls

6’1

313

Washington

PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-15

Malik Hooker

6’1

206

Ohio St.

2-14

Quincy Wilson

6’1

211

Florida

3-16

Tarell Basham

6’4

269

Ohio

4-31

Zach Banner

6’8

353

USC

4-37

Marlon Mack

5’11 213

4-38

Grover Stewart

6’5

295

Albany St.

5-14

Nate Hairston

6’0

196

Temple

5-17

Anthony Walker Jr.

6’1

238

Northwestern

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South Florida

Marlon Humphrey is going to add some speed and enthusiasm to the secondary for the Ravens. He has the body type and athletic traits that one would expect from a corner. He does need to fine tune his technique a little but he has all the athleticism needed to improve. Humphrey is going to help out the Ravens who struggled when Jimmy Smith went down with injuries last season. Although they got Brandon Carr in the offseason they really need someone else in their secondary. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-16

Marlon Humphrey

6’0

197

Alabama

2-15

Tyus Bowser

OLB

6’3

247

Houston

3-10

Chris Wormley

6’5

298

Michigan

3-14

Tim Williams

OLB

6’3

244

Alabama

4-16

Nico Siragusa

6’4

319

San Diego St.

5-15

Jermaine Eluemunor

6’4

332

Texas A&M

6-2

Chuck Clark

6’0

208

Virginia Tech

If you are trying to build a super bowl contender, than why not draft the guys who have won National Championships and Conference Championships in the best and toughest conference in college football. The Redskins drafted the top lineman PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-17

Jonathan Allen

6’3

286

Alabama

2-17

Ryan Anderson

OLB

6’2

253

Alabama

3-17

Fabian Moreau

6’0

206

UCLA

4-7

Samaje Perine

5’11 233

4-17

Montae Nicholson

6’2

212

Michigan St.

5-10

Jeremy Sprinkle

6’5

252

Arkansas

6-15

Chase Roullier

6’4

312

Wyoming

6-25

Robert Davis

6’3

219

Georgia St.

7-12

Josh Harvey-Clemons

6’4

217

Louisville

7-17

Josh Holsey

5’10 190

The Ravens also addressed a major need in the area of outside linebackers this season. After they cut ties with Elvis Dumervil following the season, the Ravens needed to find a replacement. Among the previously drafted linebackers have not been able to live up to the history of success Terrell Suggs. During this year’s draft the Ravens’ picked up two linebackers Tyus Bowser and Tim Williams. Bowser comes is an explosive quick-twitch athlete. He doesn’t have the frame to carry much more weight and he can occasionally get out maneuvered by size. The learning curve for this former basketball player is going to be intense due to his late commitment to the sport. Only time will tell if his sheer athleticism can overcome his slightly more basic skills. In addition they drafted Tim Williams from Alabama. While Williams is really good at getting the quarterback he has had difficulty getting schemes and learning the finer points of his position. That being said Williams is described as being a predator, lean and muscular on the field. These two linebackers will hopefully make a big difference in the Ravens’ season.

from the Tide in the first round then returned to Bama and drafted Anderson. By drafting these young men, the Redskins have dramatically improved their pass rush abilities. This is going to be exciting to watch since they play the Cowboys twice, Eagles twice and the Giants twice. All three of which have franchise quarterbacks that can pick apart defenses. I think they may have found a steal in the draft in Jeremy Sprinkle, tight end from Arkansas. He will make that offense better in the red zone.

Oklahoma

Auburn

Josh Harvey-Clemons is a former five-star recruit with an alpha mentality who roams the field with swagger and undeniable intent as a tackler. Has elite size, length and athletic traits, and is a rangy tackler with the ability to cover and blitz. He could be considered by teams as a box safety or hybrid linebacker. If he can overcome his issues with substance abuse; he will be great. He failed two drug tests while at Georgia before he was kicked off the team but was lucky to be able to transfer to Louisville.

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Tampa has just solidified their offense with this draft of O.J. Howard. He is a game changing tight end. I would not normally say that, especially as he is from LSU’s rival Alabama, but his ability to get open down the field is very Gronk like. Winston now has a whole list of targets to throw to. If this doesn’t cause any locker room trouble, then the Buccaneers could be challenger for the NFC South. It seams like every year some team not named New Orleans Saints draft another LSU or Louisiana product, and that guy somehow becomes a thorn in the Saints side. Kendell Beckwith was a force in the middle of the Tiger defense. I remember when I was on staff with LSU while we recruited him. He was such a monster coming out of high school, and he laid a pounding on anyone who thought they could run the ball. While at LSU, he was the reason why LSU was at the top of list of the best run stopping teams in the country. Say a lot coming from an SEC school where every team runs the ball more than passes. Beckwith is going to really help this Bucs defense in the run game.

The Broncos used their first pick to protect their young quarterback they selected in last years draft. I think he is a project guy who will be expected to pick up the speed of the game very quickly and start day one. "He plays with a nasty edge. I just think his football IQ has to continue to develop. Too many penalties, takes some bad angles. But as far as talent as a left tackle, he can play." -- Mike Mayock I like their third round pick of Carlos Henderson. I have had the pleasure of watching him play over the years and develop into one of the nation’s best pass catcher. He comes to Denver as a duel threat guy. He can play outside as a speed guy and can help in the return game. He has blazing speed and he dose not drop many passes. I was quite shocked while watching the draft that Chad Kelly fell all the way down the draft boards to Mr. Irrelevant. He was one the best quarterbacks in Ole Miss history since Eli Manning. Chad can make every play and every pass. He fell in the draft because of an injury and character concerns. He is a project player that could de-

"Kendell is a really good football player coming off an ACL repair. Six-two, 243 pounds, off-the-ball, inside linebacker. Tore his ACL late in the season, but he is a downhill, square-you-up, knock-you-on-your-butt type of player. The question is, will he be in the game on third downs? My answer is it's at least the first couple downs, special teams, and I think he can develop as one of those pass guys." -- Mike Mayock PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-19

O.J. Howard

6’6

251

Alabama

2-18

Justin Evans

6’0

199

Texas A&M

3-20

Chris Godwin

6’1

209

Penn St.

3-43

Kendell Beckwith

ILB

6’2 243

5-18

Jeremy McNichols

5’9

214

Boise St.

7-5

Stevie Tu'ikolovatu

6’1

331

USC

LSU

velop into a nice backup quarterback. There are certainly John Elway-Jim Kelly ties here. With the last pick of the draft, why not? Kelly has as much arm talent as any QB in this class and may actually remind some Bronco fans of Jay Cutler when they watch him in camp. Don't be surprised if makes the final cut as Denver's No.3 QB. --Mark Dulgerian PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-20

Garett Bolles

6’5

297

Utah

2-19

DeMarcus Walker

6’4

280

Florida St.

3-18

Carlos Henderson

5’11 199

3-37

Brendan Langley

6’0

201

Lamar

5-1

Jake Butt

6’5

246

Michigan

5-29

Isaiah McKenzie

5’7

143

Georgia

6-19

De'Angelo Henderson

5’7

208

Costal Carolina

7-35

Chad Kelly

6’2

224

Mississippi

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Louisiana Tech

Detroit took a huge loss with the retirement of Calvin Johnson and they have yet to recover. The Lions have yet to fill that role so this year they drafted Kenny Golladay, a similar build and skillset guy in the third round. PICK

Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

1-21

Jarrad Davis

6’1

238 Florida

2-21

Teez Tabor

6’0

199 Florida

3-32

Kenny Golladay

6’4

218 Northern Illinois

4-18

Jalen Reeves-Maybin LB

6’0

230 Tennessee

4-21

Michael Roberts

6’4

270 Toledo

5-21

Jamal Agnew

5’10 185 San Diego

6-21

Jeremiah Ledbetter

6’3

280 Arkansas

6-32

Brad Kaaya

6’4

214 Miami

7-32

Pat O'Connor

6’5

277 Eastern Michigan

The Dolphins, while a much improved team, is still in need of some depth. I like the pick of Charles Harris. He reminds me a lot of Pittsburgh Stealers James Harrison. Charles is a high-cut pass rusher with good athleticism but concerns regarding his ability to drop anchor against the run. Ironically, Harris might be best suited as a penetrator which is something he fought against this season. His hands can be improved as pass rush weapons, but he has agility and footwork that can't be taught. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-22

Charles Harris

OLB

6’3

253

Missouri

2-22

Raekwon McMillan

6’2

240

Ohio St.

3-33

Cordrea Tankersley

6’1

199

Clemson

5-20

Isaac Asiata

6’3

323

Utah

5-35

Davon Godchaux

6’3 310

LSU

6-10

Vincent Taylor

6’3

304

Oklahoma St.

7-19

Isaiah Ford

6’1

194

Virginia Tech

First round pick, Jarrad Davis, has been praised for both his football and personal character, Davis has athletic gifts to go along with the character traits the Lions are looking for. His ability to cover ground, operate with loose hips in space, and finish his tackles make him a draft favorite for some teams. While it is easy to fall in love with the traits and potential, Will have to take better routes to the ball and learn to keep himself clean against blocks. "Davis missed a lot of time with an ankle. He's got the physical traits. He's a tough kid. He's today's NFL inside linebacker. He can run. He can stay in the game on third down, which I think is critical in Detroit." Mike Mayock I like the pick of Kenny Golladay in the third round. If he develops into the redzone threat that the Lions have missed, they will have improved their offence. Jarrad Davis was an interesting pick, and if he stays healthy, could become a good Linebacker and play inside or out. I predict that he will play weakside linebacker for the Lions this year to help stop the run.

The Dolphins selected LSU playmaker Davon Godchaux, in the fifth round. Godchaux was a disruptive tackle in the SEC. Just another highly productive LSU product. Godchaux is good three-technique who played with the punch and arm extension to set a strong edge even though he might be a better fit for a one-gap unit. With the Dolphins, he will team up well with Charles Harris and give them the pass rush element they need to compete against the Patriots. The Dolphins needed to improve their o-line, but rather decided to upgrade their defense. If this draft can produce a competitive defense then the offense will follow. Iron sharpens iron, so if the offensive line can face a better defensive line this summer, than both lines will improve and make this a much improved team. At least this is the dolphin’s theory.

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Eli Manning isn’t getting any younger and the competition got a whole lot better in 2016. The Eagles and the Cowboys both have made strides at getting better as well as the Redskins. Manning has a probowl receiver in Beckham Jr, so drafting a game changing tight end was key. By drafting Engram, the Giants now force defenders to single cover Beckham otherwise be forced to leave Engram open down field. "He's a matchup nightmare. He can block on the perimeter. He'll be an immediate impact player. His skill set is closer to Mike Evans. He runs routes like a wide receiver. I don't care what you call him. Eli (Manning) is gonna say 'Wow, I love this kid.'" Mike Mayock I also like the pickup of Dalvin Tomlinson. He is a gap stuffer and will be a huge help in stopping the run. "You saw last year what Damon Harrison gave the Giants inside and here comes Dalvin Tomlinson.

With the Raiders first pick they take a huge gamble in drafting corner Gareon Conley. Conley was accused of rape on April 9th and the county in which the alleged incident took place is still investigating. "You can't make that pick and be wrong because your owner is gonna hold you accountable for it if this kid ends up with any kind of jail time." Mike Mayock. If Conley is cleared of all charges, than the Raiders will have gambled correctly and found a very productive corner. I like the pickup of Jylan Ware in the seventh round. “Ware fits the bill as a late-round developmental athlete they can mold into a serviceable role. He comes from a small school, but he has plenty of moldable traits.” Mark Dulgerian Overall, this was another good draft for the Raiders. If Conley is cleared of charges, than the Raiders will be a force in 2017.

When I watched the Clemson game this year, Dalvin Tomlinson was the best player on the field for Alabama. Very consistent. Stout at the point of attack. Can give you some pass rush inside and collapse the pocket." Charles Davis PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-23

Evan Engram

6’3

234

Mississippi

2-23

Dalvin Tomlinson

6’3

310

Alabama

3-23

Davis Webb

6’5

229

California

4-34

Wayne Gallman

6’0

215

Clemson

5-23

Avery Moss

6’3

264

Youngstown St.

6-16

Adam Bisnowaty

6’6

304

Pittsburgh

PICK Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

1-24 Gareon Conley

6’0

195 Ohio St.

2-24 Obi Melifonwu

6’4

224 Connecticut

3-24 Eddie Vanderdoes

6’3

305 UCLA

4-23 David Sharpe

6’6

343 Florida

5-24 Marquel Lee

6’3

240 Wake Forrest

7-3

5’11 202 Washington St.

7-13 Jylan Ware

6’8

7-24 Elijah Hood

5’11 232 North Carolina

7-26 Treyvon Hester

6’2

Shalom Luani

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295 Alabama St.

300 Toledo

By: Coach Andy Bryson

DeVante Kincade enters the 2017 season as the state of Louisiana’s top quarterback. Kincade lead the G-men to be the SWAC Champions and HBCU National Champions in 2016. Kincade said in an interview with us, “If you thought last season was great, you haven’t seen anything yet. Last season was just a warm-up season for this year.”

We sat down and spoke to Devante so our readers could get to know him a little more.

In 2013, Kincade spent the season as a redshirt. Then in 2014, he began to show his skill sets by completing 16 of 20 passes for 127 yards with one touchdown. He also rushed 28 times for 95 yards with one touchdown. Then in 2015 he completed 9 of 15 for 79 yards and one touchdown. He also rushed for 87 yards on 9 attempts in 2015. While his stats are impressive, what is more impressive is his caliber of character.

my mom. My coaches were great about letting me take time off, and I would go stay in Dallas with her. But even with all of that, it was still a lot of driving to go see her. I told my mom that when she got a little bit better I would move schools so I could be closer to her. She had a light stroke and that’s what made her condition really bad for a while. So I had to make a change to be with her more.

How did you get into playing football?

My dad played running back so I got some of my love of football from him. But, basically I got it from my older brother. We competKincade was rated as a 4-star recruit by ESPN.com and Scout.com ed at everything; I mean even video games. That all being said, when he came out of high school. He was listed as the 12th-best there wasn’t any one specific person that made me want to play dual-threat quarterback in the nation by ESPN.com when he sports, I just really always wanted to play sports. signed with Ole Miss. In 2016, he shook the Ole Miss community The change from Ole Miss? when he declared that he would be transferring after spending three seasons with the team. When I was at Ole Miss I was having to drive about 8 hours to go see

why did you choose Grambling?

In 2016, Devante transferred to Grambling after his mother had a stroke. He wanted to move a little closer so he could visit her more often. His drive from Ole Miss was an eight hour trip compared to only an hour and a half for the trip from Ruston, LA.

The reason I chose Grambling was simply the coaches and the Historically Black Colleges and Universities community. When I first started looking for a college the first time, I was mainly looking for a big school and being on TV. However, once I talked to the coaches His 2016 season was nothing short of impressive. As a starter for ag Grambling and they told me about the program and the history. They told me about Doug Williams and other legendary quarterthe Tigers, he completed 219 of 342 passes for 2999 yards with backs that have come from there. I’m the kind of guy that’s a com31 touchdowns. He also had 104 rushes for 264 yards with 4 touchdowns. The Tigers’ only loss in 2016 was against Arizona by petitor. I felt like it was a good opportunity for me to come here and overcome and meet some of my goals. the score of 31-21. However, the score at halftime was 21-3 Grambling. It wasn’t until halftime that Arizona scored 28 unanswered points to win the game.

When you speak of overcoming, what are some of the things that you have had to overcome?

Since arriving at Grambling State, he has earned the respect of his current team mates. One such team member, Carl Wilmer said, “He is a very good duel threat quarterback . If you take away his run game, he can sit in the pocket and has insanely accurate passing skills , if you take away his throwing he will run and get good quality runs. That's what separates him from many quarterbacks because he can do both.”

Coming out of high school I was the number 12 ranked quarterback in the country. My plan at the time was to be the next big quarterback. I wanted to be an All American. But when I came in they wanted to red shirt me. So, I just took my time and got better. Over time I got better playing as a part of the best offense in the SEC. You know that really brings me so much confidence every game I play, because I know what level of competitor I am. I mean, I was playing

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the best and I was with the best. Jan. 1 I broke my ankle in the sugar bowl in my last game at Ole Miss, that was a big hurdle I had to get over too. It was a challenge because when I got hurt none of the really big schools were really interested in me anymore, and I had to find a new school to go to. Grambling was the only one that really stayed on with me, and that is what really made my decision. What Kind Of Quarterback Do You Consider Yourself? I want to consider myself a passer and not as much as a running quarterback. Many people forgot when I went to Ole Miss was that I could throw the ball. My role there was to run the ball, and I played my role but I can do a lot more. I love being at Grambling and getting to throw the ball 30-40 times during a game. It is really a dream come true. Growing up I was just naturally a runner. God blessed me with the ability, but I have trained so that I can do more than just run. What kind of NFL quarterback do you watch and try to be like? Russell Wilson, Payton Manning, Aaron Rogers. The way they orchestrate the offense and how they manipulate the defense. It’s really all the little things that make them great. I think if I could have that kind of mentality to go with my athleticism it would make me a great quarterback. I work hard to learn the defense of every team we play, so when we line up, I know what they are going to throw at us. We talked to Carl Wilmer one of your starting guards recently and he said you were multi-dimensional, how do you feel about that?

I talk to him all the time. We have such a good working relationship. I trust him and the rest of the line to have my back. And he knows I won’t crack under pressure. You graduate this year? I have talked to a couple scouts… if you had your pick of NFL teams where would you go and why? I really just want to go somewhere when they want a quarterback that wants to win. You know, somewhere where I can be a quarterback who takes over their franchise. That’s all. It doesn’t really matter where. I would love to play for the Cowboys you know keep it in the home town, but I just want to play somewhere.

You had teammate go to the NFL - CHAD WILLIAMS? It was amazing. I just feel like it always worked out. Chad is an amazing player. He always knew the defense and you know that if he knew the defense, I knew the defense. Sometimes he would make the adjustment before I even could tell him too. He could beat the man, he could beat the zone. I mean he was just really a quarterback’s dream receiver. He had a lot of things working for him. He was strong, and he could block. You didn’t have to worry about things getting too physical.

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Who are some of the guys you want to tell fans about? Okay, I could tell you a few names but I don’t want to give you too much because there are a lot of guys that we got this year that are going to surprise everyone. We got a lot of big deal guys that people don’t know about because we just got them, and I don’t want to ruin the surprise. I won’t let that cat out of the bag. Too many playmakers all over the place. You are all just going to have to come out and see us in action. What would you tell possible Grambling recruits? If they get here they aren’t going to want to leave. There is just this feeling around campus between the players, coaches, and fans. You will be amazed coming to a small town how everything changes at night. As a former big school guy, I can honestly say that there is nothing like playing here at Grambling State! Tell fans something? I just want them to know, I want to apologize for losing to Arizona. It’s my fault for being hurt, I’m looking forward to the first of the season. Believe me when I tell you that I have been thinking about this since last year, and I’m looking to bring in a win. What was it like to play for the HBCU National championship? It was different from just another game. I mean, It was like being in a movie because at the end we accomplished our goal. I felt overwhelmed at times, and I know I wasn’t the only one. The Bayou classic is One of The Most Historic And Highly Anticipated Game Of The Season. What was it Like To Play In It? It was amazing for me to play in the Bayou Classic; it really was. With everything I have been through, it really does make me think that God does have a plan for me. I got to experience a lot of things with Grambling that I never thought I would. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities this school has given me.

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When we asked Devante what he wanted to say to his fans he gave us something to really get excited over:

“If Grambling Nation is wondering what next year is going to look like, I just want to say for my fans and all of Grambling Nation, it’s going to be a different year, last year was really just a warm up. I’m fundamentally a different quarterback, I’m a throwing machine. We have weapons all over the place both on offense and defense. Even though we won the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) National Championship, last season was nothing compared to what we plan to do this year. Our coaches are nothing of spectacular and have reloaded this team with some of the best recruits this country has to offer. This team is the epitome of bigger, faster, and stronger. “- Devante Kincade

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This past Super Bowl will not be forgotten anytime soon. With all the hard work to make it to the Super Bowl than be up 28 to 7 entering the fourth quarter just to loose in the final seconds of the game is more than just a heartbreaker, but a travesty. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-26

Takkarist McKinley

6-2

250

UCLA

3-11

Duke Riley

6-0

232

LSU

4-30

Sean Harlow

6-4

303

Oregon St.

5-5

Damontae Kazee

5-10 184

5-12

Brian Hill

6-1

219

Wyoming

5-31

Eric Saubert

6-5

253

Drake

San Diego St.

The Buffalo Bills have been rebuilding since the ‘90s and have yet to really been able to put anything together. There has been stints when there looked like hope of a great team, but for one reason or another the Bills have not capitalized. I think that this year could be a breakout year for the Bills and a start of something new in Buffalo. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

1-27

Tre'Davious White

5-11 192

2-5

Zay Jones

6-2

201

East Carolina

2-31

Dion Dawkins

6-4

314

Temple

5-19

Matt Milano

6-0

223

Boston College

5-28

Nathan Peterman

6-2

226

Pittsburgh

6-11

Tanner Vallejo

6-1

228

Boise St.

LSU

The Falcons continue to dig into the talent pool that LSU and Louisiana has to offer and continues to pull out superstars. Last season the Falcons drafted Deion Jones and three years ago drafted their starting corner, Robert Alford from Southeastern. Both of these Louisiana products made huge impacts in the Super Bowl with Deion Jones recovering a forced fumble and Robert Alford having an 83 yards pick six. In this years draft, Atlanta dug back into the Louisiana talent pool by drafting Duke Riley out of LSU in the third round. I like the Falcons first round pick of Takkarist McKinley. When he was drafted, he showed the emotion that made him such valuable player for UCLA. If he brings just a touch of that emotion to Atlanta, then they will have a huge pass rusher specialist. In the NCF South were every team has a Franchise quarterback and an elite passing game, McKinley better show up ready to play and eat.

In the first round, the Bills drafted LSU’s game changing corner, Tre’Davious White. White brings more to the Bills then shutting down a receiver, he also brings a game changing skillset at returner. He will be able to put the Bills in a good scoring position as a returner if he dose not have a pick six. "He was a four-year starter in the SEC, so that tells you something. He's not flashy or sexy, but he's one of the more solid cornerbacks in this draft. He plays off, he plays inside, he plays soft, he plays press. ... Even though we don't talk about him like other players in this draft, he's still a good football player" Mike Mayock. I also like the Bills second round pick in Zay Jones. He started fling up draft boards at the Senior Bowl when he had exceptional performance. "I thought along with Haason Reddick, he handled the process better than anybody in college football. He's got hands and toughness. People thought he couldn't run because most of his offense was underneath. I'll tell you right now, he ran away from people at the Senior Bowl. He went from a third- or fourth-round selection to a high second-round because he trusted the process" Mike Mayock.

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The 2016 season was a surprising season for the Cowboys. They had no idea what was bound to happen when they drafted Elliot with the fourth overall pick in last years draft. When Romo went down and Prescott came in, Cowboy nation had already wrote in another loosing season but instead, the combination of the two rookies, Prescott and Elliot, the Cowboys had an almost historic season. In the 2017 draft, the Cowboys ordered a Taco for dinner. Not just any Taco, but Taco Charlton. He was a prolific pass rusher for the Michigan Wolverines. I feel this years draft process overlooked one of the best safeties and the Cowboys have just capitalized on him. I have spoken to scout about him, and I always get the same response, “that kid can flat out play ball.” Woods is a natural deep safety who can play the deep third and pick off quarterbacks.

The Steelers may have found their replacement for James Harrison. T.J. Watt, brother of ALL Pro defensive end JJ Watt from the Texans, can now call Pittsburgh home. I saw him play against the LSU Tigers in the season opener for 2016, and he almost single handedly shut down the Tiger Offense. He played like a man on a mission in that game and set the tone of the loss for the Tigers. I spoke to a former Steelers front office manager a day before the draft and he said that my observations were spot on in the April magazine. Watt produced at high-end level with just one season of full-time football. Has desired length for the edge with room to accommodate more size. It wasn't easy for Watt to get on the field his first couple of seasons with the Badgers, redshirting as a tight end in 2013 and losing the following season with a right knee injury. Watt then tore up his left knee during spring practice in 2015, having surgery but returning to play as a reserve linebacker in all 13 games (eight tackles, 1.5 for

PICK Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

1-28 Taco Charlton

6'6

277 Michigan

2-28 Chidobe Awuzie

6'0

202 Colorado

3-28 Jourdan Lewis

5’10

188 Michigan

4-27 Ryan Switzer

5'8

181 North Carolina

6-7

5’11

197 Louisiana Tech

6-33 Marquez White

6’0

194 Florida St.

7-10 Joey Ivie

6’3

301 Florida

7-21 Noah Brown

6’2

222 Ohio St.

7-28 Jordan Carrell

6’3

300 Colorado

Xavier Woods

loss). Finally healthy in 2016, he won a starting job and excelled, garnering second-team Associated Press All-American and firstteam All-Big Ten honors with 63 tackles, 15.5 for loss, and 11.5 sacks. PICK

Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

1-30

T.J. Watt

OLB

6’4

252 Wisconsin

2-30

JuJu Smith-Schuster

6’1

215 USC

3-30

Cameron Sutton

5’11

188 Tennessee

3-41

James Conner

6’1

233 Pittsburgh

4-29

Joshua Dobbs

6’3

216 Tennessee

5-30

Brian Allen

6’3

215 Utah

6-30

Colin Holba

6’4

248 Louisville

7-30

Keion Adam

OLB

6’2

245 Western Michigan

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PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

2-1

Kevin King

6’3

200

Washington

2-29

Josh Jones

6’1

220

N.C. State

3-29

Montravius Adams

6’4

304

Auburn

4-1

Vince Biegel

6’3

246

Wisconsin

4-28

Jamaal Williams

6’0

212

BYU

5-32

DeAngelo Yancey

6’2

201

Purdue

5-39

Aaron Jones

5’9

208

Texas-El Paso

6-29

Kofi Amichia

6’4

297

South Florida

7-20

Devante Mays

5’11

230

Utah St.

7-29

Malachi Dupre

6’2

196

LSU

Seattle was in a good spot entering the draft this year with very few needs. The Seahawks added a lot of depth and competition which helps this team moving forward. The Seahawks PICK Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

2-3

6’6

295 Michigan St.

2-26 Ethan Pocic

6’6

310 LSU

3-26 Shaquill Griffin

6’0

194 Central Florida

3-31 Delano Hill

6’1

216 Michigan

3-38 Nazair Jones

6’5

304 North Carolina

3-42 Amara Darboh

6’2

214 Michigan

4-4

Tedric Thompson

6’0

204 Colorado

6-3

Michael Tyson

6’1

204 Cincinnati

6-26 Justin Senior

6’5

331 Mississippi St.

7-8

David Moore

6’1

219 East Central (OK)

7-31 Christopher Carson

6’0

218 Oklahoma St.

Malik McDowell

As long as the Packers have Aaron Rogers behind center, the Packers will be in the mix as an elite football team. This years draft was just a reload of talent to add more depth and competition to a championship caliber team. Kevin King was the Packers first pick in the draft. He has great measurable and can outright play ball. "This young man is today's NFL corner. His tape was really fun to watch. ... I'm not sure his combine speed and his football speed are the real thing. But the single-high teams, the teams that play a lot of high free safety, are gonna love him. His ability to press and his ability to find the football are even better. His best football is ahead of him" Mike Mayock. The Packers drafted Malachi Dupre in the seventh round out of LSU. The former five star prospect never fully had the high prolific career at LSU. Now that he has an ALL-Pro passer, there are no excuses why he cannot develop into huge receiver in the NFL.

did not draft anyone this season that I would say was a wow factor, but they did draft a few quality players. LSU’s Ethan Pocic is going to come in a probably start day one. "Great pick for them. They have not been the same since they lost Max Unger. He's smart. He gets up to that second level which you need at the center position. This is going to fortify them in the inside. Something they've needed since they lost Max Unger" Brian Billick. Ethan started at every position while at LSU before shoring up the offensive line at center. He is a force in the run game and can help in the passing game. Malik McDowell can also start on day one. He was a top fifty player coming out of high school. "This kid is gifted genetically. He played both inside and out, but he runs hot and cold. ... I've had an awful lot of coaches say if we can unlock the potential in this kid, we can have something special. Pete Carroll has always done a great job of taking these types of guys and getting the best" Mike Mayock. If Malik plays to his potential, then the Seahawks have drafted a diamond.

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get. "He's an advanced route-runner. I love his hands and his edge. Very average speed. His three-cone was one of the best of the combine, meaning he can get in and out of breaks. Against two Pac -12 teams, he caught the ball 27 times with six touchdowns, so don't give the 'level of competition' with Kupp." -- Mike Mayock The Rams drafted Tulane graduate Tanzel Smart in the sixth round. Smart is an aggressive interior lineman who plays with a high motor. He had an exceptional game at the Senior Bowl as well. Overall, I thought the Rams had a good draft adding depth and skill at most positions that will add plenty of competition this summer and fall. Look for the Rams to continue to improve this fall. The Rams are continuing to get better every year. This upcoming season wont be any different as the Rams drafted a good red zone threat in Gerald Everett from South Alabama. "They've got to fill in and around Jared Goff. Obviously going to be a red zone target for them. Going to have to get a little better at the point of attack. He's going to be the move guy, but he's a good athlete." -- Brian Billick Wide receiver Cooper Kupp is an intriguing pick. I saw him play in the Senior Bowl, and when I saw him I thought that he could be a gem pick. He has fast cuts and sticky hands. He is an above average receiver. He could develop and become the number one tar-

PICK

Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

2-12

Gerald Everett

6’3

239 South Alabama

3-5

Cooper Kupp

6’2

204 Eastern Washington

3-27

John Johnson

6’0

208 Boston College

4-10

Josh Reynolds

6’3

194 Texas A&M

4-19

Samson Ebukam

OLB

6’3

240 Eastern Washington

6-5

Tanzel Smart

6'1

296 Tulane

6-22

Sam Rogers

5’10

231 Virginia Tech

7-16

Ejuan Price

5’11

241 Pittsburgh

Coming off their super bowl victory, the Patriots didn't really need to draft a lot. They made that very clear in this years draft by trading their picks for future picks.

In this years draft, the Patriots have added depth on both of their lines. Derek Rivers and Deatrich Wise will both add competition along the defensive line while Antonio Garcia and Conor McDermott will add depth and competition to the offensive line.

With their first round pick they traded it to the Saints for a speedy Brandon Cooks. What is scary about the Patriots is that they already are stacked on the offensive side and now they just added one of the most explosive receivers in the NFL. 2017 could be Tom Brady’s best season as quarterback with all the weapons all around him.

The Patriots could be the best team in the NFL in 2017 and could have a repeat season if not a better season than 2016.

PICK

Name

POS

WT SCHOOL

3-19

Derek Rivers

6’4

248 Youngstown St.

3-21

Antonio Garcia

6’6

302 Troy

4-25

Deatrich Wise

6’5

274 Arkansas

6-28

Conor McDermott

6’8

307 UCLA

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

The Vikings used this years draft to add some much needed depth to their team. This was a great draft for them when they landed Florida Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best running back in over 30 years, Dalvin Cook. PICK

Name

POS

SCHOOL

2-41

Dalvin Cook

5-10 210

3-70

Pat Elflein

6-3

303

Ohio St.

4-109

Jaleel Johnson

6-3

316

Iowa

4-120

Ben Gedeon

ILB

6-2

244

Michigan

5-170

Rodney Adams

6-1

189

South Florida

5-180

Danny Isidora

6-3

306

Miami

6-201

Bucky Hodges

6-6

257

Virginia Tech

7-219

Stacy Coley

6-0

195

Miami

7-220

Ifeadi Odenigbo

6-3

258

Northwestern

7-232

Elijah Lee

6-3

228

Kansas St.

7-245

Jack Tocho

6-0

202

N.C. State

Florida St.

The Minnesota Vikings decided this offseason to go in another direction from All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson. However, in the second round the Vikings landed a huge talented running back in Dalvin Cook. He is a highly versatile back that can do many things. He may not be that power, every down back like Peterson was, but he can catch the ball out of the backfield and still run between the tackles. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dalvin Cook is a first-round talent who slipped into the second round solely because of the off-the-field issues. When you put his tape on, he's special. He'll make a difference in Minnesota." Mike Mayock I like the pick of Pat Elfein at center. He should be a competitor and add depth on the line. "One of the most technically advanced offensive lineman in this draft. He's not the best athlete in the world, but he's technically proficient. He's one of those guys that will play 10 years in the NFL. I love the fact that he can play center and both guards. Really solid pick by the Vikings." -- Mike Mayock

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LSU Round 1, 4th overall: Leonard Fournette, Jacksonville Jaguars Fournette said he's 100 percent recovered from his ankle injury that kept him out of five games last season. He also wants to dispel any thoughts that he's slow after showing up at the NFL Scouting Combine at 240 pounds. "A lot of people think for my size I'm very slow," he said. "But they don't know I had the best times in track 21.4 in the 200 and 10.5 in the 100. When they get on the field and it hits you it kind of surprises them."

Round 1, 6th overall: Jamal Adams, New York Jets The 6 foot 1, 211-pound safety was a leader on and off the field for the Tigers for three seasons. In his three seasons at LSU, he started all 36 games at safety and tallied 209 tackles, 18 tackles for a loss, 5 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries.

Round 1, 27th overall: Tre'Davious White, Buffalo Bills White, a 5-foot-11, 192-pound Shreveport native, was valued for his experience after starting 47 games in four seasons at LSU. When he was chosen, it was just the second time in the modern era that LSU had three or more first-round picks (2007 was the other).

Round 2, 58th overall: Ethan Pocic, Seattle Seahawks Pocic, a 6-foot-6, 310-pounder, played all five offensive line positions in four seasons with LSU, starting at four of the spots. He spent the past two seasons at center and the year before was the Tigers' starting left guard. He finished his career with 37 starts and 43 games played. At Tech, he had 14 career interceptions, six forced fumbles and 18 passes defensed. He had 272 tackles, 20.5 for loss, and was a four year-starter.

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Round 3, 75th overall: Duke Riley, Atlanta Falcons LSU linebacker Duke Riley followed in the footsteps of Deion Jones once again. Riley was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the NFL Draft Friday, the fifth LSU player taken. The Falcons used the 11th pick of the round, No. 75 overall, to take Riley, the former John Curtis Patriot. Last year the Falcons took Jones in the second round. Jones was the starter at LSU in 2015 and was replaced by Riley in 2016. Both sat the bench for three years until becoming starters as seniors. Riley, a 6-0, 232-pound Buras native, led LSU with 93 tackles, nine for loss, with an interception and a fumble recovery.

Round 3, 107th overall: Kendell Beckwith, Tampa Bay Beckwith, a 6-foot-2, 243-pound inside linebacker from Clinton, La., suffered a season-ending knee injury against Florida last November, but said he expects to be ready for training camp in July. He was leading the Tigers with 91 tackles when he was hurt. Beckwith was a three-year starter with 263 career stops, 24.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, nine pass breakups, three forced fumbles and three recoveries.

Round 5, 178th overall: Davon Godchaux, Miami Dolphins Godchaux, a 6-foot-3, 301-pounder from Plaquemine, La., passed on his senior season at LSU. He played end in LSU's 3-4 defense in 2016 and tackle in the Tigers' 4-3 the two seasons before that. In the past two seasons, Godchaux had 12.5 sacks. He started 34 of 37 games in three seasons, with 18 tackles for loss and nine quarterback hurries.

Round 7, 247th overall: Malachi Dupre, Green Bay Packers A five-star wide receiver coming out of John Curtis in 2014, Dupre flashed his ability at times, with some inconsistency and a tendency to drop passes. He caught 98 passes for 1,609 yards and 14 touchdowns in his career. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Louisiana Tech

Round 3, 82nd overall: Carlos Henderson, Denver Broncos Henderson, who played running back in high school and became a star receiver at Tech, was the No. 82 player selected overall and the 18th player in the round. Henderson excelled in the Louisiana Tech spread offense in three seasons, averaging 19.6 yards per catch and scoring 30 touchdowns. He had a breakout year as a redshirt junior with 82 catches for 1,535 yards and 19 touchdowns. He rushed for 133 more yards and two scores and averaged 32.2 yards on 25 kickoff returns for the Bulldogs.

Round 5, 177th overall: Trent Taylor, San Francisco 49ers Taylor, who prepped at Evangel, was the 177th player taken overall and one of the smallest at 5-foot-8 and 181 pounds. Taylor finished his four-year career with 327 catches for 4,179 yards and 32 touchdowns.

Round 6, 191st overall: Xavier Woods, Dallas Cowboys Woods, a 5-11, 197-pounder from West Monroe, was the 191st player picked overall and seventh in the round. He was a three time All-Conference USA pick and a Nagurksi and Thorpe Award nominee.

Grambling Round 3, 98th overall: Chad Williams, Arizona Cardinals Williams, considered by scouts a raw prospect, was taken in the compensatory round, the 98th player taken overall. In 2016, he led the SWAC with 90 catches for 1,337 yards and 11 touchdowns and was named a second-team FCS All-American and first-team All-SWAC for Grambling's league championship team. Williams also was a first-team All-SWAC pick in 2015 with 64 catches for 1,012 yards and 10 TDs. Williams, 6-foot-1, 204 pounds, played quarterback and defensive back at Madison Prep, a small charter school. NFL.com's Lance Zierlein writes that Williams, "plays bigger than his size. Confident in his hands and snatches the ball way out in front of this frame. Shows some physicality after the catch and isn't easy to bring down."

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Louisiana-Lafayette

Round 6, 188th overall: Elijah McGuire, New York Jets McGuire, who prepped at Vandebilt Catholic in Houma, La., was the 188th player taken overall with the fourth pick of the round. McGuire was a four-year starter for the Cajuns and compiled 5,736 yards and 52 TDs rushing and receiving with 130 pass receptions. He also returned 28 punts for 197 yards, adding to his NFL value.

Tulane Round 6, 189th overall: Tanzel Smart, L.A. Rams The Baton Rouge native was a two-time firstteam All-AAC selection while he was a member of the Green Wave and ended his career with 190 total tackles (40.5 for loss) and 9.5 sacks. During his senior season in 2016, Smart accounted for 67 total tackles (18.5 for loss) and 5.5 sacks--which were all career-highs. Smart is the first Tulane player to be chosen in the NFL Draft since Lorenzo Doss (fifth round) and Taurean Nixon (seventh round) both were picked by the Denver Broncos in the 2015 Draft .

Louisiana is the only state in the country with at least one player from every University that has a football program. Again this year every school had at least one person offered a rookie mini camp offer including Louisiana College (Louisiana’s only DIII school). To date, Louisiana has the most players in the NFL per capita. As colleges and Universities have taken notice of the amount of talent from this state, Louisiana has now become the third largest state in sending athletes to division I schools. This will in turn begin to build this state as well as communities around this state. The following are recent graduates from Louisiana Universities that did not get drafted but did sign free agent contracts:  Dwayne Thomas, DB, LSU New England Patriots

 Josh Boutte, OL, LSU Cleveland Browns  Rickey Jefferson, S, LSU Oakland Raiders  Colin Jeter, TE, LSU Indianapolis Colts  Lewis Neal, Edge, LSU Dallas Cowboys  DeSean Smith, TE, LSU Chicago Bears   

Tashawn Bower, DE/OLB, LSU Minnesota Vikings Cyril Noland-Lewis, S, Louisana Tech Arizona Cardinals Otha Peters, LB, Louisiana-Lafayette Seattle Seahawks

 www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Travin Dural, WR, LSU New Orleans Saints

La Tech

Grambling Chester Rogers Chad Williams

Indianapolis Colts Arizona Cardinals

Wide Receiver Wide Receiver

Indianapolis Colts

Offensive Tackle

New York Jets Tampa Bay Buccaneers Oakland Raiders Los Angeles Chargers Miami Dolphins New York Giants Tampa Bay Buccaneers Houston Texans Minnesota Vikings New Orleans Saints Los Angeles Rams Philadelphia Eagles New York Jets Atlanta Falcons Dallas Cowboys Green Bay Packers New Orleans Saints Indianapolis Colts Chicago Bears Buffalo Bills Jacksonville Jaguars Miami Dolphins Philadelphia Eagles Seattle Seahawks Pittsburgh Steelers Cincinnati Bengals Houston Texans Minnesota Vikings Green Bay Packers Oakland Raiders Indianapolis Colts New York Jets Philadelphia Eagles Atlanta Falcons Cincinnati Bengals Miami Dolphins Kansas City Chiefs Baltimore Ravens Seattle Seahawks New York Jets Arizona Cardinals Pittsburgh Steelers Philadelphia Eagles Indianapolis Colts Cincinnati Bengals Dallas Cowboys Arizona Cardinals Seattle Seahawks Chicago Bears San Francisco 49ers Atlanta Falcons San Francisco 49ers Carolina Panthers Chicago Bears New England Patriots Carolina Panthers Kansas City Chiefs Buffalo Bills Los Angeles Rams Buffalo Bills York Giants Indianapolis Colts Cleveland Browns

Safety Linebacker Guard Offensive Tackle Linebacker Wide Receiver Linebacker Running Back Defensive End Cornerback Defensive Tackle Cornerback Cornerback Cornerback Offensive Lineman Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Linebacker Defensive Lineman Long Snapper Running Back Defensive Tackle Guard Wide Receiver Offensive Tackle Running Back Running Back Defensive End Defensive Tackle Safety Tight End Defensive Tackle Punter Linebacker Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Defensive Tackle Linebacker Running Back Safety Safety Quarterback Cornerback Linebacker Linebacker Defensive End Cornerback Center Wide Receiver Safety Linebacker Cornerback Wide Receiver Tight End Cornerback Guard Running Back Cornerback Offensive Tackle Defensive Tackle Punter Nose Tackle Wide Receiver

Louisiana College Jeremy Vujnovich

LSU Jamal Adams Kwon Alexander Vadal Alexander Joe Barksdale Lamin Barrow Odell Beckham Jr. Kendell Beckwith Alfred Blue Tashawn Bower Delvin Breaux Michael Brockers Ron Brooks Morris Claiborne Jalen Collins La'el Collins Malachi Dupre Travin Dural Lavar Edwards Ego Ferguson Reid Ferguson Leonard Fournette Davon Godchaux Dillon Gordon Cyril Grayson Jerald Hawkins Jeremy Hill Kenny Hilliard Danielle Hunter Ricky Jean Francois Rickey Jefferson Colin Jeter Anthony Johnson Donnie Jones Deion Jones Brandon LaFell Jarvis Landry Bennie Logan Lamar Louis Terrence Magee Ronald Martin Tyrann Mathieu Zach Mettenberger Jalen Mills Barkevious Mingo Kevin Minter Lewis Neal Patrick Peterson Ethan Pocic Rueben Randle Eric Reid Duke Riley Rashard Robinson Russell Shepard DeSean Smith Dwayne Thomas Trai Turner Spencer Ware Tre'Davious White Andrew Whitworth Kyle Williams Brad Wing New Al Woods James Wright

Ryan Allen Adairius Barnes Houston Bates Kentrell Brice Vernon Butler Kenneth Dixon Vontarrius Dora Jeff Driskel Justin Ellis IK Enemkpali Carlos Henderson Jordan Mills Cyril Noland-Lewis Quinton Patton Trent Taylor Paul Turner Myles White Xavier Woods

New England Patriots Punter Detroit Lions Washington Redskins Green Bay Packers Carolina Panthers Baltimore Ravens Denver Broncos Cincinnati Bengals Oakland Raiders Buffalo Bills Denver Broncos Buffalo Bills Arizona Cardinals New York Jets San Francisco 49ers Philadelphia Eagles New York Jets Dallas Cowboys

Cornerback Linebacker Safety Defensive Tackle Running Back Linebacker Quarterback Defensive Tackle Linebacker Wide Receiver Offensive Tackle Cornerback Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Safety

Jacksonville Jaguars

Tight End

New York Jets Buffalo Bills Baltimore Ravens

Offensive Lineman Defensive Back Defensive Back

Seattle Seahawks Unknown Los Angeles Rams Unknown New York Jets

Cornerback

Atlanta Falcons Arizona Cardinals

Cornerback Cornerback

Houston Texans Miami Dolphins Los Angels Rams

Tight End Defensive End Running Back

New York Giants Denver Broncos New York J ets Washington Redskins Tampa Bay Buccaneers Washington Redskins New Orleans Saints Washington Redskins Denver Broncos Kansas City Chiefs Los Angeles Rams Detroit Lions Miami Dolphins

Running Back Cornerback Running Back Wide Receiver Quarterback Running Back Defensive End Linebacker Cornerback Place kicker Defensive Tackle Offensive Tackle Defensive End

Philadelphia Eagles New York Jets Seattle Seahawks Indianapolis Colts Green Bay Packers Jacksonville Jaguars

Defensive Tackle Running Back Linebacker Wide Receiver Defensive Tackle Wide Receiver

San Francisco 49ers

Tight End

McNeese State Nick Jacobs

Nicholls State Chris Bordelon B.T. Sanders Lardarius Webb

Northwestern State Jeremy Lane De'Mard Llorens Pace Murphy Shakeir Ryan Deon Simon

Offensive Lineman Nose Tackle

Southeastern Robert Alford Harlan Miller

Southern RaShaun Allen Arthur Miley Lenard Tillery

Tulane Orleans Darkwa Lorenzo Doss Matt Forte Ryan Grant Ryan Griffin Robert Kelley Royce LaFrance Nico Marley Taurean Nixon Cairo Santos Tanzel Smart Arturo Uzdavinis Julius Warmsley

UL Justin Hamilton Elijah McGuire Otha Peters Al Riles Christian Ringo Jamal Robinson

ULM Je'Ron Hamm

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Hometown Legend Shines In Super Bowl By: Coach Andy Bryson

Hammond native Robert Alford fulfilled his lifelong dream of playing on the biggest stage back in February in the Super Bowl. Robert played his college ball at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) and was a second round draft pick for the Atlanta Falcons in 2013. When Robert started playing his college ball at SLU, he had ambitions of playing in the NFL, but the likelihood of a small town guy making it to the big league was look at as almost impossible. That was before new head coach Ron Roberts took over for the Lions. In coach Roberts 2012 season, he took over a SLU team that had difficulties figuring out how to win ball games. In 2012, his team was only one game away from clinching a playoff birth. The much improved Lions were finally on the radar of several NFL teams. Robert Alford was offered an opportunity to play in the Senior Bowl in Mobil. When he was given a chance, he shined and made scouts take a second look at the Hammond native. He was later invited to the NFL Combine that is held in Indianapolis. There he got the eye of all 32 NFL teams when he ran a 4.33 forty yard dash at the combine. I remember all 32 NFL teams showing up to SLU to watch his Pro Day workouts. In the April Draft in 2013, Robert didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to wait too long to

hear his name called. He was drafted in the second round with the 60th overall pick. Since the Draft, he has shined on the Falcons defense. Robert currently has 10 interceptions in four seasons he has played for the Falcons and three defensive touchdowns including the 82 yard pick six in the Super Bowl. Intercepting future first ballot Hall-Of

-Fame quarterback, Tom Brady, and returning it for a touchdown was a career highlight that every corner in the NFL wishes they could accomplish. Robert also has 7 pass defenses and one interception from his home state team, the New Orleans Saints.

Robert Alford has a 82 yard pick 6 against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in a Super Bowl loss www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Robert Alford is just another example of lost talent to other NFL teams that the Saints have passed on. So much talent is sent out of state in the NFL. It is a shame since there are five DI football teams within an 80 mile drive of the Saints. Others that the Saints have passed on recently in the draft are Cardinals Safety Tyrann Mathieu and Falcons Linebacker Deion Jones. Maybe the Saints learn and start taking a closer look into draftPhoto taken by April Buffington/ The Advocate ing Local players.