5 Draft Targets for the Blue Jays

(Courtesy of Kristin M. Bradshaw/Georgia Sports Communication)

Toronto- The 2020 MLB Draft is fast approaching and the Toronto Blue Jays will be on the clock to make their selection on June 10th.

After posting a 67-95 record in 2019, the Blue Jays are set to pick fifth overall, their highest draft choice since 1997 when they selected Vernon Wells. This will also be the first draft under the direction of their new amateur scouting director Shane Farrell, who the son of former Blue Jays manager John Farrell.

The Blue Jays have a tremendous track record of building a very strong farm system by acquiring young talent through the draft and international amateur free agency. It seems that their scouting and development have paid off when the organization saw the lights of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and Cavon Biggio in 2019. 

Knowing that the Blue Jays have a high draft choice, they are pretty much guarantee that a very talented player will fall in the Blue Jays’ laps.

Here are five draft targets that the Blue Jays should target with their 5th overall selection:

1. Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia

Hancock was a preseason favourite to be selected first overall in the 2020 MLB Draft. He established himself as one of the best college arms during a tremendous sophomore season in 2019 with his 1.99 ERA. Has shown a a great 4-pitch arsenal with his fastball that can touch in the mid 90’s, slider with some late movement, developing curveball and changeup. After a rough debut in 2020, he bounced back by posting a 3.75 ERA. His command, frame, delivery and pitch mix still place him among the best in his draft class Hancock’s command and mechanics earns him potential plus grades that can make him a frontline starter for the Blue Jays. If selected, Hancock can be a nice one-two punch in the longterm with Nate Pearson, the Blue Jays’ number one prospect.

2. Nick Gonzales, 2B, New Mexico State

Gonzales’ bat was red hot starting off his 2020 campaign. He led the NCAA Division I in batting average at .432 and homers 12 in 16 games. He was named the Cape Cod League MVP last summer. The 5-foot-10 middle infielder is the best pure hitter ability in this year’s draft class. He has elite bat speed and great plate awareness. He more of a gap power hitter than a home run hitter. He has the ability to hit all over the field. He is a good athlete with some good speed on the base pads. There are some concerns about his ability to stick at shortstop as his arm strength and range are just average. He may have to move to second base if his footwork and range doesn’t improve at shortstop. With the Blue Jays appear set in the infield, the Blue Jays can also convert him to center field.

3. Zac Veen, OF, Spruce Creek H.S. (Florida)

Veen is the first high school player that should be a consideration for the Blue Jays with their 5th overall pick. He was the 2018 PG WWBA Underclass World Championship MVP a year ago. He got off to a hot start this spring as he kept soaring up his draft stock to be considered the top high school bat in the class. Veen has a beautiful left-handed swing that scouts can dream on. He physical frame at 6’4” has the projectivity to add strength to his body frame. Has excellent bat speed and can generate big-time power as he matures. He showed the ability to loft the ball consistently. Some scouts compare him to Cody Bellinger. He a solid runner that can allow Veen to play center field. His arm strength is above average that allows him to play in the corner outfield. The Blue Jays need some depth in the outfield so Veen might be pretty tempting here if he would have fall to them.

4. Max Meyer, RHP, Minnesota

Meyer is another righthander that the Blue Jays should might have their eyes on. He may have the best fastball and slider combo in this draft class. He has a smaller frame than Hancock as he listed at 6’0” and 185 pounds. But his mid to upper 90s fastball and slider are both graded at 70 according to scouts. His changeup showed some flashes that can be a solid pitch. Due to his body frame, there are some concerns if he can start at the big league levels. There were some talks about moving him to the bullpen if he has durability concerns. But he’s a good athlete and repeats his delivery fluidly. Think the Blue Jays can give him the shot to start like they did with Marcus Stroman, their 2012 1st rounder.

5. Reid Diemters, LHP, Louisville

Many people thought that Texas A&M lefty Asa Lacy may be a consideration. However, there’s a good chance that Lacy may not be there for the Blue Jays. So Diemters is a lefty that they could have a look at. He may not have the the flashes with his low 90s heater, but does present a solid 4-pitch mix. Dietmers set a team record for wins (13) fand strikeouts (167). His fastball usually ranges from 90-94 mph. His 72-76 mph curveball been a plus pitch at its best, while his sinking changeup is effective as well. Detmers has a strong, durable frame at 6’2 and 210 pounds. He repeats his delivery with ease and control the strike zone. His ability to locate his pitches permits him can make him a solid mid-rotation starter. The Blue Jays don’t have a lot of left-handing pitching in their farm system other than Anthony Kay. So adding Dietmers may be intriguing for the Blue Jays.

The Blue Jays have been leaning towards college players with their first round draft choice. But they can easily go for the best player available with their high draft choice. Whoever the Blue Jays’ official select, they are surely going to get a very talented player that can help the Blue Jays to compete for the World Series since 1993.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top 10 Toronto Blue Jays Prospects Ranking

(Courtesy of Roger Sporstnet)

Toronto- The 2019 season was a major first step of the Toronto Blue Jays’ rebuilding process. People were talking about how strong the Blue Jays’ farm system with young talented players in all over the field. Despite finishing a losing record of 67-95, the Blue Jays saw a great look at their homegrown talent with Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bitchette, Cavon Biggio, and Danny Jansen already becoming big league players.

Despite the early graduations with some of the Blue Jays’ top prospects in 2019, the farm system still have plenty of more talent in both the upper and lower levels in 2020. The strength of organization features a lot of young right-handed pitchers, catchers and infielders. However, the Blue Jays lacked depth in both outfield and left-handed pitching. Despite the graduation of Guerrero Jr. Bichette, Jansen and Biggio, Baseball America ranked the Blue Jays having the 6th best farm system in MLB. 

When evaluating these prospects, yes their grade tools are important and productions is also a factor. But scouts also need to look and their projectivity on their potential. The Blue Jays have a lot of high ceiling talents but there are still room to grow with all of their young players.

Here is the list on the top 10 Blue Jays’ prospect based on how I see them contribute in the future:

1. Nate Pearson, RHP

Pearson is one of the best pitching prospects, perhaps a top 10 prospect overall. After pitching only a couple of innings in 2018 due to a broken arm, Pearson dominated  through three levels in 2019 with a 2.30 ERA and 119K in 101.2 innings. His fastball is legit that can touch 102 mph. His secondary pitches with his slider, curveball and changeup showed some great improvements and developments. He is one step closer to the big leagues. If he can dominate early at AAA, the Blue Jays should expect him in Toronto in mid 2020 (if MLB does have a season). He could be the ace of the staff for a long time.

2. Jordan Groshans, SS/3B

Groshans was drafted in the 1st round of the 2018 MLB Draft, Groshans opened the season strong slashing .337/.427/.482 in 23 games before his season was ended with a foot injury in May. Many scouts believe he can hit for average and power. The Blue Jays are allowing Groshans to remain at shortstop but many believe that he can be an above average defender at third base with his strong arm. He should start in High-A Dunedin in 2020.

3. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP

Wood Richardson was acquired from the New York Mets as part of the Marcus Stroman trade. After the trade, he had a 2.54 ERA with 29K in 28.1 IP in 6 starts in High-A. He was also the youngest player in Florida State League. His fastball touches 93-96 mph. Also have a curveball, slider and changeup. Wood Richardson may have the best control with his pitches out of all of the pitchers in their system. He has the potential to be a top of the rotation arm in the future.

4. Alek Manoah, RHP

Manoah was a 1st round pick in the 2019 MLB draft. He is a physical beast at 6’6” and 260 pounds. He dominated hitters in the limited innings at Short-A Vancouver. He stuckout 27 batters in 17 innings. It will be interesting to see how much he improves over his first full season. He should start 2020 at Low-A Lansing. He offered two about average pitches with his mid 90’s fastball and slider. He has the potential to be a solid #2 or 3 starter in the future. However he need to develop his secondary pitch and command.

5. Orelvis Martinez, SS/3B

Martinez performed well in his debut season. Baseball America ranked him the #1 prospect in the Gulf Coast League. He had a slashline of .275/.352/.549 with 7 home runs. the 18 year old has shown some improvements with his defence at shortstop but can continue to develop as he matures. Could be aggressively moved to Low-A Lansing in 2020.

6. Alejandro Kirk, C

Signed out of Mexico in 2016, Kirk had a breakout 2019 season that saw him earn a promotion from Class A Lansing to Class A Advanced Dunedin. The catcher hit .288/.395/.446 with four homers and 25 doubles. He shown some great improvement with his plate discipline with more walks than strikeouts in 71 games. Has a solid arm behind the plate as he threw out 38 percent of base runners attempting to steal bases. He need to work on his framing and blocking to remain at catcher. Kirk could be a offensive minded catcher that can contribute with the Blue Jays in 2021.

7. Miguel Mirado, SS/2B

Hiraldo was aggressively placed in the Appy at Advanced-Rookie Bluefield in 2019. He had a productive season with a slashline of .300/.348/.481 with 7 HR and 11 SB. He has an advanced approach with his bat speed and short compact swing. He also shown the potential to produce solid power numbers so he could move quickly through the system. Like a lot of young teenagers in rookie levels, there are questions about his ability to remain at shortstop, but lots of time to grow and develop but has the athleticism and arm strength to remain at shortstop with ability to play 2B.

8. Gabriel Moreno, C

Moreno had a breakout season outperforming expectations with a .280/.337/.485 and 12 HR, and 52 RBI in 80 games at Low-A Lansing. He makes outstanding contact with his great bat speed. Defensively, Moreno impresses officials with his athleticism and energy behind the plate. Has a chance to be a solid all around catcher and should move to High-A Dunedin in 2020.

9. Adam Kloffenstein, RHP

Kloffenstien was Groshans’ teammate in Magnolia High School in Texas. He was a 3rd round selection in 2018. In 13 starts he had a 2.24 ERA with 64 K in 64 IP. He has a great future to be a number 3 starter with a high 90’s fastball and a nasty curveball. Don’t be surprised to see him move quickly to High-A Dunedin.

10. Anthony Kay, LHP

Kay was also acquired from theMets in the Marcus Stroman trade. He was much better after the trade after posting a 2.50 ERA in 7 starts in Triple-A Buffalo. He got a September call-up where he had 8 strikeouts in his major league debut. He will battle for a starting spot with the Blue Jays. but will likely end up at AAA Buffalo to start the season. Could become a solid 4 or 5 starter.

Honourable Mentions: Kendall Williams, Eric Pardinho, Dasan Brown, Griffen Conine

It might not be too long before Blue Jays fans get a glance at some of the organization’s highly-touted prospects. Plus there will be more talent coming to the organization with the 5th overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft . 

Will provide a scouting report for each prospects so that Blue Jays fans can get a good looks future of the organization. Many believe that the Blue Jays are heading in a right direction with plenty of young talent coming to Toronto.

2020 Toronto Blue Jays Draft Preview

(Courtesy of Kristin M. Bradshaw/Georgia Sports Communications)

Toronto- Just one month away for the 2020 MLB Player Draft. The good news is that the draft is set to be scheduled on the original dates from June 10-11.

However, this year’s draft will only feature 5 rounds instead of 40 due to the financial loss of COVID-19. This means that teams are limited to select players within 5 rounds, including those teams who have picks in the Competitive Balance Rounds and Compensatory picks with their free agent losses. As part of the agreement with the union and players association, teams can sign players after the draft, but they are limited to signing bonuses of $20,000 or less. This could mean that lot of young talent will not be drafted this year. That’s a huge blow for those trying fulfill their dreams to become professional baseball players. With the unknown circumstances of COVID-19, this may cause more high school players to elect to go to college. However, the NCAA has limited amount of baseball scholarships.

With the draft only being 5 rounds, what could this mean for the Toronto Blue Jays?

President Mark Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins were awarded with 5th overall pick for finishing the 2019 MLB season with 67-95 record, which is 5th worst in the league. This is the highest draft pick since the Blue Jays drafted Vernon Wells in the 1997 MLB Draft. Knowing that the Blue Jays have early picks in each round, they can easily go for best player available as long as they can sign those players within the draft bonus slots.

Here is the breakdown of the Blue Jays’ draft pools and breakdown:

Total slot value: $9,716,500

1st: $6,664,000

2nd: $1,771,100

3rd: $805,600

4th: $549,000

5th: $410,100

Farm System Breakdown:

Even with the loss of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette and Cavon Biggio, who all three reached the majors in 2019, the Blue Jays’ system is still very strong with a lot of young talent. Considered one of the top 10 farm system in all of baseball with Nate Pearson is considered one of the best right-handed pitching prospects. This group includes an especially strong crop of pitching prospects with last 1st round draft pick Alek Manoah, as well as position players at the farm’s lower levels like 2018 1st rounder Jordan Groshans.

Farm System Strengths:

The Jays are stacked with shortstops and right-handed pitching. The  team has eight shortstops among its Top 30 Prospects which includes Groshans, Orelvis Martinez and Miguel Hirado. On the mound, the list starts with Pearson and Simeon Woods Richardson and2019 draftees Manoah and Kendall Williams.

Farm System Weakness:

Even though the Blue Jays’ farm system is deep, there’s not a lot of depth in the outfield and left-handed pitching prospects. 2019 3rd rounder Dasan Brown is a Canadian outfielder who can run the bases but need works with his bat. Anthony Kay maybe the Blue Jays’ lone southpaw that can potentially be a number 3 or back of rotation type starter.

Players to Watch in Round 1:

Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia

Hancock was a preseason favourite to be the number one pick in 2020 MLB Draft. His fastball touches 95-97 on the gun. He also has a solid slider, curveball and changeup that all have the potential to be at least average offerings. He got off to a slow started in his first start, allowing 6 earned runs in his 2020 debut. He did bounced back before the season was suspended due to COVID-19. Hancock has the potential to be another ace in a making that can give the Blue Jays a one-two punch at the top of the rotation with Pearson.

Asa Lacy, LHP, Texas A&M

A lefty that has probably the best fastball and slider combo in this draft. Lacy has a wicked fastball that can touch in the mid to upper 90s. His slider is his best secondary pitch that can cause a lot of hitters to look silly. He also has a changeup with is a developing pitch. He needs to work on his command and control with all of his pitches and mechanics to be another front of a rotation type starter in the big leagues.

Nick Gonzales, INF, New Mexico State

Gonzales is a right-handed hitting machine. He may not be the biggest guy at 5’10” and 190 pounds, but he has the ability to hit all over the field. His bat speed is elite that can generate a lot of gap power and could potentially hit 10-15 home runs in the big leagues. Scouts may have questions on which position is best suited for him, but teams may be willing to give him a shot at shortstop but 2B may be a longterm fit.

Blue Jays’ Draft Philosophy:

Unlike the NBA or NFL draft, MLB team don’t draft for needs. There are multiple strategies that teams have in order to build their farm systems. Some teams select college players early so that they can sign them under the slot and then they can take players with signability concerns in later rounds. While other teams goes for the best available player route.

Over the last five years, the Blue Jays have hunted for shortstops and right-handed pitching in the first 10 rounds. The Blue Jays have been known to select college players in round 1 and then take on high schools players in round 2 and 3. Knowing that the Blue Jays have picks early in each rounds, they can go with the best player available.

The top five players in the 2020 draft are almost universally projected to be Austin Martin, Spencer Torkelson, Hancock, Lacy and Gonzales in some order. So no matter how the draft shaped up, the Blue Jays are fully guarantee at least one of those players should be available at pick #5. This is an important draft for the Blue Jays and really need to nail on all of those picks with limited resources.

Cowboys signing of Andy Dalton does not affect Dak Prescott’s contract

(Courtesy of NY Post)

Toronto- It didn’t take to long for Andy Dalton to find a new team to play as he agreed to sign with the Dallas Cowboys on a one year deal worth with a base salary of $3 million, but can earn up to $7 million. After the Cincinnati Bengals released Dalton, Dalton made a quick decision to play closer to home.

Dalton was a 2nd round choice by the Bengals in 2011 draft out of TCU and made the Pro Bowl three times. He played in 133 games with the Bengals and threw 31,594 passing yards and 205 touchdowns in 9 seasons. With the Bengals drafting LSU Joe Burrow with the 1st overall pick, it seems that the team was ready to move on from Dalton.

Now the signing of Dalton doesn’t means he’s the Cowboys’ new starting quarterback. This has nothing to do with the status on Dak Prescott’ contract negotiation. Even though the timing of adding another quarterback is somewhat interesting given the fact that Prescott still haven’t sign a deal yet. But no! Dalton is coming to the Cowboys to replace Prescott. 

The Cowboys were in the the hunt to find a proven backup quarterback even with their 2020 7th round draft choice Ben DiNucci added to the organization and Cooper Rush has not been proven as their undrafted free agent in 2018. The addition of Dalton provides the Cowboys with a veteran presence behind Prescott. Even if Prescott hasn’t missed a game in his career, the Cowboys viewed the opportunity to add Dalton as someone with a good track record that can help the team. 

Keep in mind everyone that the Cowboys want to sign Prescott to a long term deal. They just haven’t been able to come to terms just yet. People are forgetting what if Prescott gets hurt? What if he holds out? Dalton adds some insurance in case such scenerios do occur. Can they really rely on Rush or DeNucci? No!

Cowboys Nation should not make a big fuss about Dalton replacing Prescott. That’s not the case. Dalton is a proven veteran that can step in to start some games in case of injuries or holdouts. Look at the Philadelphia Eagles! Their division rival won the Super Bowl in 2017 with Nick Foles, who was the back up at the time. So people can’t sleep on haven’t a solid backup like Dalton.

The Cowboys were just preparing for a worst-case scenario when it come with Prescott. Better be safe than sorry. The addition to Dalton is going to help. Now they just need to get Prescott sign and everybody will be happy.

Scouting Report on Tyler Biadasz: From one Wisconsin center to another

(Courtesy of Mark Lomoglio/Associated Press)

Toronto- Many people including the Dallas Cowboys were surprised with the unexpected retirement of their all-pro center Travis Frederick. The loss of Frederick left a huge hole in their offensive line. In a unexpected move, the Cowboys traded back in the 4th round of 2020 NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and selected another Wisconsin center Tyler Biadasz.

Even with Joe Looney back on a 1-year deal and Conner McGovern, who didn’t play at all last season, the Cowboys need some help with their offensive line. Here’s a scouting report on Tyler Biadasz:

Player Profile:

Position: Center

Birth Date: N/A

Birth Place: Amherst, Wisconsin

High School: Amherst High School (Amherst, Wisconsin)

College: University of Wisconsin (Wisconsin Badgers) (Madison, Wisconsin)

Height: 6’4”

Weight: 314 lbs.

Arms: 32 ¼”

Hands: 10”

Acquired: Drafted in the 4^th round (146^th overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

Combine Results:

40-Yard Dash: N/A

Bench Press: N/A

Vertical Jump: N/A

Broad Jump: N/A

3-Cone Drill: N/A

20-Yard Shuttle: N/A

60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Player Biography:

Biadasz won the Tim Krumrie Award as the state of Wisconsin’s top high school defensive lineman. With the Badgers, he started all 14 games during his freshman season at center in 2017. Biadasz was named a Freshman All-American and third-team All-Big Ten. He started all 13 games in 2018 and received first-team all-conference notice. Biadasz had hip surgery in the spring of 2019 but returned to start all 14 games. For his efforts, he won the Remington Trophy as the nation’s top center and named first-team  All-American and first-team All-Big Ten honours.

Strengths:

• Three-year starter for premier rushing attack in Big Ten
• Accurate quick-strike hands into first contact
• Grips to cinch-up and extend rides and finish blocks
• Repeatable technique snap after snap
• Works well in double-teams
• Great composure and balance
• Shows some good footwork to push defender
• Identifies and communicates protection duties pre-snap

Weaknesses:

• Doesn’t generate much pass blocker
• Doesn’t have a lot of  power and atheticism
• Needs stiffer secure block before climb
• Faulty anchor allows pocket breach by power rushers
• Leans and falls off-balance against moving rushers
• Gets overextended in lateral protection help
• Injury concerns with the hip surgery

Player Comparison: Cody Whitehair

Player Overview:

Solid but unspectacular center prospect who has been a consistent performer during Jonathan Taylor’s rushing game. He’s very intelligent, well-versed in every blocking scheme and plays with efficiency. He has issues with his power and pass protection could be a concern, as NFL pass rushers will me a mismatch on his poor lateral quickness.

Biadasz is looking to compete at the Cowboys’ starting center spot with Looney and McGovern. With Looney signing for only one year, Biadasz has the potential to be the Cowboys’ new starter center with limited upside. He’s no T

Scouting Report on Bradlee Anae: Cowboys finally got their new edge rusher in the 5th Round

(Courtesy of CBS Sports)

Toronto- The Dallas Cowboys witness the loss of Robert Quinn in free agency in March. Enter the 2020 NFL Draft, owner Jerry Jones needed to find a way to improve their pass rush unit. He managed to do just that in the 5th round with the selection of Utah’s reinstatement Anae.

Even with the addition to Aldon Smith, who hasn’t play in the NFL since 2015, the Cowboys needed to add some help with their pass rush to replace Quinn’s production (11.5 sacks). There were so many uncertainty with the awaiting of the reinstatement on suspensions with Smith and Randy Gregory. And Tyrone Crawford is coming off of two major hip surgeries.

Here’s a look at what Anae brings to the table for the Cowboys’ defensive end:

Player Profile:

Position: Defensive End

Birth Date: January 17, 1998.

Birth Place: Laie, Hawaii

High School: Kahuku High & Intermediate School (Laie, Hawaii)

College: University of Utah (Utah Utes) (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 257 lbs.

Arms: 32 1/8”

Hands: 10 1/8”

Acquired: Drafted in the 5^th round (179^th overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

Combine Results:

40-Yard Dash: 4.93 seconds

Bench Press: 25 reps

Vertical Jump: 31.0 inches

Broad Jump: 115.0 inches

3-Cone Drill: 7.44 seconds

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.43 seconds

60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Player Biography:

The Hawaii native started 10 of 13 games played that season and recorded 7 sacks. in 2017. Pac-12 coaches voted Anae first-team all-conference in 2018 after he led the league with 8 sacks and 15.5 for loss. He also broke up three passes and forced two fumbles as a junior. Anae was named to the first-team All-Pac-12 nod in 2019 and third-team All-American after leading the team with 14 tackles for loss and 13 sacks. Anae’s father, Brad, played for BYU and USFL.

Strengths:

• Quick to land first at the point of attack
• Able to post up into full arm extension when setting the edge
• Rowdy play with great demeanor when mixing it up with tackles
• Can play standing up or down.
• Gives tight ends rough times in the run
• Above-average skill level to dissect pass protection
• Flashes good first step explosion upfield
• Long-arm stab creates a barrier from punching tackle
• Uses aggressive chop to displace outside punch hand and soften the edge
• Actively pursues in creating sacks

Weaknesses:

• Has struggled to defend the run, but results are inconsistent
• Can be widened out by drive-blocking tackles
• Tackle production has been subpar for his snap count
• Pursuit range is a little limited
• Not the best athlete at his position
• In need of a workable inside rush counter for his pro approach
• Spin move is ineffective
• Not a natural bender to race, dip and flatten
• Won’t help much if asked to drop and cover

Player Comparison: Jabaad Sheard

Player Overview:

The more people watch Anae’s tape, the more you would like with his game. He’s fairly skilled and polished pass rusher with good burst and diverse. He’s not a natural bender or the best athlete at his position. He is so much better at attacking blockers than defending against the run. He has the size, hands and strength to play standing or with a hand down in a 4-3 defense.

With the Cowboys, look for Anae as a rotational pass rusher. He may not be effective against the run, but can be a disruptive pass rusher to attack the quarterback. Many peeps thought Anae was going to be selected as early in the 3rd round. But the fact that the Cowboys got him in the 5th round is tremendous value.

 

Scouting Report on Reggie Robinson II: Cowboys decided to double dip on CB

(Courtesy of Tulsa World)

Toronto- The Dallas Cowboys managed to select Trevon Diggs in the 2nd round of the 2020 NFL Draft to address the need at cornerback. However, they decided to double-dip at CB with the selection of Tulsa’ Reggie Robinson II in the 4th round.

Like Diggs, Robinson II brings size, length and athleticism in the Cowboys’ secondary. Let’s take a look at the scouting report on their 4th round selection:

Player Profile:

Position: Cornerback

Birth Date: April 17, 1997.

Birth Place: Ruston, Louisiana

High School: Cleburne High School (Cleburne, Texas)

College: University of Tulsa (Tulsa Dukes) (Tulsa, Oklahoma)

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 205 lbs.

Arms: 31 ½”

Hands: 8 3/8”

Acquired: Drafted in the 4^th round (123^rd overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

Combine Results:

40-Yard Dash: 4.44 seconds

Bench Press: 22 reps

Vertical Jump: 36.0 inches

Broad Jump: 132 inches

3-Cone Drill: 7.09 seconds

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.18 seconds

60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Player Biography:

Robinson has been a huge part in the Tulsa’s secondary since his redshirt freshman season in 2016. He started seven of 13 games and recorded 37 tackles and seven pass breakups. He started 11 of 12 games during his sophmore season in 2017, leading the team with nine pass breakups. An injury interfered Robinson’s junior year, however, as he played eight games and recorded five pass breakups. Robinson had a bounce back senior campaign with 4 interceptions and 13 pass deflections. He was named first-team All-American Athletic Conference honours. He was also an ace in the Tulsa’s special team unit with 4 blocked kicks.

Strengths:

• Has size and strength of an NFL cornerback
• Productive ball magnet this season
• Able to shade and constrict landing area on deep sideline throws
• Plays to his length when allowed to zone up
• Finds ways into catch space
• Modest instincts when playing with eyes on the quarterback
• Big striker for a cornerback

Weaknesses:

• Tight hips bring slow flips from press
• Struggles to mirror and match the release
• Poor balance in matching and phasing routes
• Unable to make up ground when he gets behind
• Carries prolonged hitch to plant and drive down on throws
• Needs more aggression attacking blocks
• Staying in phase with routes is a major issue

Player Overview:

The size, length and ball production offer up hope for the Tulsa product. Robinson’s lack of speed and athletic traits could prevent him from maintaining playmaking positioning as a pro. He has average instincts, but his length can be a disruptive factor in close quarters. If he can crank up his run-support intensity, he might get looks as a zone corner or a safety.

The Cowboys added a lot of the depth within the secondary with the addition of Robinson II. Now their secondary have a lot of bodies and defensive coordinator Mike Nolan and defensive back coach Al Davis would have to see how he can get playing time with this unit in their zone-press schemes. Expect Robinson II to looked for take on a role as nickel dime corner and special teams. He also can possibility have some reps at safety.

 

Scouting Report on Neville Gallimore: the “Canadian Bulldozer” adds beef in the Cowboys’ defensive line

(Courtesy of Brett Deering/Getty Images)

Toronto- A fellow Canadian was added to the Dallas Cowboys with Oklahoma’s defensive tackle Neville Gallimore. The Ontario native was selected with the Cowboys’ third round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft to provide the necessary depth at the interior of their defensive line.

The Cowboys added Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe through free agency last March. But the addition of Gallimore should some insurance behind the two veterans.

Here is a scouting report of the Cowboy’s third round selection:

Player Profile:

Position: Defensive Tackle

Birth Date: January 17, 1998.

Birth Place: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

High School: Prep Academy (St Catherines, Ontario, Canada)

College: University of Oklahoma (Oklahoma Sooners) (Norman, Oklahoma)

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 304lbs.

Arms: 32 ¾”

Hands: 9 5/8”

Acquired: Drafted in the 3rd round (82^nd overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

Combine Results:

40-Yard Dash: 4.78 seconds

Bench Press: N/A

Vertical Jump: N/A

Broad Jump: N/A

3-Cone Drill: 7.97 seconds

20-Yard Shuttle: 5.01 seconds

60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Player Biography:

The “Canadian Bulldozer” Gallimore was considered one of the top prospects coming out of Canada in 2015. After relocating in St. Catherines, Ontario, Gallimore landed a foot ball scholarship at the University of Oklahoma. After being a redshirt during 2015 season,  Gallimore played in all 13 games in 2016, starting six of the final eight games and recorded 40 tackles, four for loss, one sack. The following season, he started the first five games but missed two of those games due to injury. He finished with 28 tackles, one for loss. After returning for his junior campaign, Gallimore was named honorable mention All-Big 12 and recorded with 50 tackles, five for loss, and three sacks in 13 starts. He really shined as a senior, while leading the Sooners to a Big 12 championship. He was named third-team All-American and second-team All-Big 12 honors. He finished the 2019 season with 30 tackles, 7.5 for loss, four sacks and two forced fumbles. He didn’t play in the Senior Bowl due to hip and knee injuries. However, he did participate in some drills at the Combine with an impressive 4.79 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

Strengths:

• Possesses tremendous amount of potential
• Play with a high motor
• Above-average snap quickness
• Very active hands and carry some pop into contact
• Punch and works to find the edge as nose tackle but has play some edge
• Spins out of stalled mid-line rush looking for secondary shot
• Able to force his way in once he gets under the edge
• Hustles down the line or downfield to chase running backs
• Never content and always looking for work

Weaknesses:

• Plays way too tall
• Allows blockers to play under his pads
• Unable to defend and anchor against down blocks
• Get double and triple team easily
• Below-average balance with his footwork and stance
• Lacks coordination and body control
• Unable to skinny up into the gaps
• Ends up on the ground too often with his improper balance and footwork
• Inconsistent hands to counter and shed blocks
• Need to develop more pass rush skills inside the interior of the line
• Fails to create momentum despite initial quickness and pop

Player Comparison: Quinten Williams

Player Overview:

Flash talent whose tape has moments but fails to fully deliver. Gallimore goes hard from snap to whistle with secondary effort that brings decent production, but his NFL potential may be limited by a lack of leverage and contact balance. Oklahoma had him playing in the gaps but he might be more effective improving his hands and learning to two-gap. Unless he turns the flashes into a finished product, his future may be as a rotation tackle in an even front.

Gallimore is more likely to play as a rotational player behind McCoy and Poe in 2020.  However, Gallimore can succeed as an above average starter in the NFL in the future. Both McCoy and Poe aren’t long term answer at the DT position. Look for Gallimore to learn more at the position and a fellow Sooner McCoy could be his mentor to help the Cowboys’ new DT prospect to develop and enhance his skills. Gallimore has play nose tackle for Lincoln Riley’s Sooners 3-4 scheme. But his best position may be best suited at a 3-tech in a 4-3 base scheme.

 

 

Did Jerry Jones force CeeDee Lamb to wear number 88?

(Courtesy of Sports Illustrated)

Toronto- Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was sitting on his $250 million super yacht and finished up a successful first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

During the press conference, the billionaire was having some thought about old friend, Jerry Lamb, recently passed away. Jones remembered Lamb, a teammate at Arkansas, who wore No. 88 for the Razorbacks. Jones mentioned that he would like to honour his old friend’s legacy by asking his first-round pick and former Oklahoma Sooner CeeDee Lamb to wear No. 88. The same number that some of the greatest wide receivers wore throughout their careers in Dallas. Talking about Drew Pearson, Michael Irvin and Dez Bryant.

Just recently, the Cowboys announced that Lamb will wear No. 88, joining a legacy of the 88 club. But did Jones forced Lamb to wear the number? Is it fair for Lamb to carry that legacy, knowing the importance of wearing that number?

While Lamb expressed his interest in wearing No. 10, it may seems that Jones sees a lot of potential that Lamb could be one a major super star. So maybe Jones believed that Lamb is worthy to wear number 88. And maybe Jones convinced Lamb to wear the number because of the legacy of that number. 

On the other hand, doesn’t Lamb have the right to choose whatever number he wants to wear? If he wants to wear number 10, why can he? Lamb has been compared with D’Andre Hopkins, who now an Arizona Cardinals. Lamb is a fan of Hopkins after idolizing Hopkins’ playmaking ability with the Houston Texans. According to Irvin and Bryant, they have no problem with Lamb wearing the number 88 and both believed that Lamb can carry their Cowboys to the next level. 

Bryant offered good advice to Lamb on his twitter “Be you and be great!”

So maybe Lamb feels so confident to rock the number 88 in his jersey and he feels that he the best wide receiver in the draft and felt that he can make an immediate impact for the Cowboys’ offence cause of his playmaking skills and ability to catch the football.

The 6-foot-2, 198-pound Lamb had 173 receptions in three seasons at OU for 3,292 yards and 32 TDs. So Lamb proved that he succeed in college football. Now he must prove to himself that he is worthy to join the elite 88 club by reaching his potential and produce at a high level in the NFL. Lamb should have that capability to be an all-pro wide receivers in the NFL and should fit nicely as the Cowboys’ newly weapon to wear 88.

 

 

Scouting Report on Trevon Diggs: Can he replace Byron Jones?

(Courtesy of USA Today)

Toronto- The Dallas Cowboys had a huge need at cornerback with the lost of all-pro Byron Jones, who signed with the Miami Dolphins. After selecting CeeDee Lamb in the 1st round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the Cowboys filled a major hole in their secondary with Alabama’s press corner Trevon Diggs, who Stefon’s younger brother.

Diggs has the potential to be a impact starter in the NFL and provides a long-term solution at cornerback for the defensive coordinator Mike Nolan’s new scheme. Here is a scouting report on Diggs.

Player Profile:

Position: Cornerback

Birth Date: September 20, 1998.

Birth Place: Gaithersburg, Maryland

High School: Thomas Sprigg Wootton High School (Rockville, Maryland)

College: University of Alabama (Alabama Crimson Tide) (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 205lbs.

Arms: 32 ¾”

Hands: 9 3/8”

Acquired: Drafted in the 2nd round (51^st overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

Combine Results:

40-Yard Dash: N/A

Bench Press: N/A

Vertical Jump: N/A

Broad Jump: N/A

3-Cone Drill: N/A

20-Yard Shuttle: N/A

60-Yard Shuttle: N/A

Player Biography:

Diggs has an outstanding future in the NFL and will likely face his oldest brother, Stefon, on the field sooner than later. Trevon was a two-time All-Washington D.C. Metro pick at receiver during his time at Maryland’s Avalon School. The four-star recruit played both offense, defense and special teams in 15 games as a true freshman for the Tide. Diggs shifted to cornerback in 2017 and recorded six tackles, three pass breakups, one start in 13 games played. He was a full-time starter for Nick Saban’s defence in 2018 with 20 tackles, one interception, six pass breakups in six games. He was slideline for the east of the 2018 season due to a broken foot. Diggs started 12 games as a senior. He was named  third-team All-American and second-team All-SEC. He recorded three interceptions and tying for the team lead with eight pass breakups Another of Diggs’ brothers, Mar’Sean, was a defensive back at Iowa Western CC and UAB. His father, Aron, passed away from heart failure in 2008.

Strengths:

• Elite height, weight and length
• Size and strength for unique matchup potential against big targets
• Fluid and athletic to open and read routes
• Above-average foot agility for a big cornerback
• Great instincts and catch talent as a former wide recievers
• Used ball skills to create interceptions
• Uses his length deflect passes.
• Opportunistic to score pick-six.
• Returned punts and kicks with reasonable success

Weaknesses:

• Playmaking mentality can work against him
• Reacts before properly surveying the situation
• inconsistent footwork and mechanics can cause him to lose balance
• Struggles to stay in phase with double moves
• Long speed is a concern with certain matchups in NFL
• Struggled against LSU and Ja’Marr Chase
• Had trouble maintaining balance and position while tracking deep throws
• Needs better attention to positioning as open-field tackler

Player Comparison: Aqib Talib

Player Overview:

Diggs is a talented prospect with rare combination of size, strength and ball skills. As a former receiver, Diggs has great instinctive feel for his opponent’s plans and uses his size and athleticism to disrupt the football. His foot agility and short-area burst are good for his size and helped keep completion percentage low. He’s inconsistent staying in phase with downfield routes and footwork that can cause him mismatch in the NFL. He’s a future starting press-man corner with the great hands and ball tracking skills. He should benefit from more help over the top as a pro.

Diggs should provide a long-term solution at corner with Chidobe Awuzie and Jourdan Lewis entering free agency in 2021. He’s still raw and need time to develop, but he has a potential to be a shutdown press corner in the future.