Talk about fiending football….

 

 

My buddy, fellow Florida alum, JB and I have already gone through so many Gator topics, that we’re thinking about the pro chances of backup running backs. That inspired me to think about the pro prospects of other lesser hyped players on the 2009 Gators. We’ve already all heard plenty about the NFL futures of Tebow, Spikes, Dunlap and Haden...

 

 

 

Rainey is a speed demon, one of those many sub-4.5 guys Meyer has at his disposal. He’s shown the ability to burst through the line, make guys miss using some shifty moves and outrun anybody who’s unfortunate to have to chase him. Also, has good hands (catching and ball protection) who’s slippery in the open field.

 

He’s a small guy. Word is he’s bulked up to around 185, which is a good start, but still about 10 lbs short to survive consistent hits from NFL linebackers. He isn’t prone to breaking any tackles when squared up with a defender

 

If Chris keeps it going in the weight room and works on his running between the tackles, he could contribute immediately as a kick returner. Down the road he’ll have a chance to contribute as a 3rd down back and in a pinch (injury to starter), a 20 carry RB. Ultimately, he needs to get more playing time to showcase himself. With Demps hogging the workload later last season, we shouldn’t expect Rainey to declare early.

 

Major is a crushing tackler and rarely is caught out of position. He had four forced fumbles as a true frosh in '07 and four interceptions last year. You also love a guy that shows up in big games.

 

With the way he plays, he could stand to bulk up a bit more to handle bigger NFL running backs.

 

Major has the size strength and speed to be NFL caliber safety. He's played against some tough competition in the SEC. While he'd be declaring early, he would already have 3 full years experience in the college game. If he enters early, he could be a 3rd-4th round pick. He would contribute immediately on special teams. If he stays another year and keeps healthy, he could possibly land in the late 1st round.

 

Are they the same person? No (though its hard to tell from pictures). Maurkice played guard and center while Mike played guard and some D-tackle. Both of their natural positions are at guard. Two smart offensive lineman who are punishing run blockers.

 

Both lineman need to increase their strength a bit and show they can play in a pro style offense. Their only experience in pass protection has the QB giving them 5 yards of space in pass protection (at least at the college level).

 

Both guys have the size and experience for the NFL. Playing in a system that demands athleticism makes them a good fit in a zone blocking scheme. Offensive linemen don't usually leave school early unless they are guaranteed to get drafted, but the Pounceys have a chance at a 2nd national title in consecutive years and may want to ride into the sunset with Tebow and Spikes.

 

The Most Tattooed Man in the History of Connecticut. Catches well with his hands (instead of body) uses every bit of his 6-2 frame. Very athletic for his size and a versatile weapon on offense. He's lined up at receiver, tight end and full back.

 

Like the Pounceys, Hernandez will need to show he can play in a pro style offense where he's called on to block more often. He's got the strength, just needs to work on his blocking mechanics.

 

To make full use of Hernandez's skill set, he'll need to go to an NFL team with a creative offensive coordinator. Think Chris Cooley with Washington. Even if he does have the breakout year most people are expecting out of him this year, he's not a lock for the first three rounds of the draft. I think he stays another year to be a leader with Johnny Brantley in 2010.

 

Since he set foot in the Swamp, he's brought excitement to every kick and punt return. He has a knack for making the first guy miss. This will make four years of experience running back kicks. He's also made a handful of splash plays on offense including catching 19 passes over the past two seasons.

 

While he's great in the open field, he hasn't shown much as a running back behind an offensive line. He has the same size deficiencies as Rainey.

 

BJ could surprise us all and be an effective runner in the NFL. Small backs like Darren Sproles of San Diego and Willie Parker of Pittsburgh have had success. Both guys had plenty of experience as a RB in college though. Unless he returns 4 kicks for TDs this year or takes full advantage of some playing time on O, James will be lucky to make an NFL roster. I'm sure he'll get picked up for a team's training camp and will be given an opportunity at the next level.

 

Well that's just 5 of our guys. There's plenty more NFL caliber talent on the roster. I also still think Tebow will go in the first round as a QB.