LKelley67

For the next few days why don't we devote a thread to each draft pick. Not discussion of the merits of the pick itself but about the player. Lots of links, read up on them and give any thoughts from what you gather.

My immediate reaction is how they contrast from players of the Haslett era. Year after year we saw dazzling athletes who lacked many of the other necessary components for success. The common ground I see on these players is how they are talked of as football players first not athletic specimens. Attitude and character seem to now be on another whole plane of priority with the organization.

Start with an eye opener on Harper...

The highly recognized Frank Croyle-
Saints looking to couple this guy with Josh Bullocks - last years No. 2 pick. Harper is the most underrated defender in this draft and could be a rookie starter here. He was an excellent addition at this point.
Pros: Harper has received little national attention as a prospect, but astute scouts are well aware of his all-around abilities. He has strong run-support and cover skills. He will fill hard and fast and really strikes a blow. He is aware and alert playing back in zones. He has good ball skills and can make plays on the ball. In run support, he reads the play quickly and reacts with strong hands that allow him to get off blocks and finish with reliable form tackling. He is a tough in-the-box safety, despite marginal size for the role. He has the toughness and durability to be a good NFL starter, but may be better suited for strong safety rather than the free safety. He has above average recovery speed for the free safety spot and his coverage technique has improved significantly over his late career.
Cons: He has only average hip flexibility and stays too upright in his backpedal, causing him to lose a step in transition. He will be slow to come out at the break point and allows separation in man situations.
Numbers: At the Combine, he did not work out due to a hamstring injury.

http://nfldraft.rivals.com/cviewplay...scoutingreport

ESPN commentators were discussing how safeties were evolving into a new form- a lot more in the box, hard hitting play. As terrible as the run D has been I can see the sense of this guy.