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Guards: top senior prospects
Sporting News, The, Nov 1, 2004 by Dan Pompei
1. Elton Brown, 6-5, 338, Virginia. A unique and huge, broad-shouldered blocker. Is outstanding at pulling. Can slide in pass protection. Plays with strength. Has the versatility and athleticism to be considered at center and right tackle. Isn't always consistent. Needs technique work.
2. Claude Terrell, 6-2, 341, New Mexico. Physical, explosive run blocker. Shows mobility to pull and get to the second level. Has good lateral movement. Is effective. Some might consider him short. Also has experience at tackle.
3. David Baas, 6-4, 311, Michigan. Typical Michigan offensive lineman: a hardnosed, blue-collar, tough guy. Lacks ideal athleticism but makes up for it with effort and intensity. Can maul defenders. Also has experience at center.
4. Chris Kemoeatu, 6-4, 341, Utah. Very physical, tough run blocker. Comes off the snap hard and gets defenders moving backward. Is limited as an athlete and is not a great pass blocker. Overextends at times.
5. Ikechuku Ndukwe, 6-4, 320, Northwestern. Has a good feel for the game. Can bend his knees, play with a low center of gravity and get leverage. Stays on his feet. Has an NFL body. Has elevated his stock this year.
6. Doug Nienhuis, 6-6, 321, Oregon State. Massive man provides an obstacle to get around. Is stiff athletically but smart. More of a finesse blocker. Plays tackle in college and could wind up as a tackle in the NFL.
7. Jonathan Clinkscale, 6-4, 304, Wisconsin. Athletic prospect who can slide and move. Is experienced and has been productive. Also can play center. Doesn't always finish blocks.
8. Dan Buenning, 6-5, 310, Wisconsin. Tough, competitive player who achieves despite limited athleticism. Is intelligent and aware. A leader. Is a better run blocker than a pass blocker. Needs to improve strength.
9. C.J. Brooks, 6-5, 311, Maryland. Good point-of-attack player with adequate strength. Has an NFL body. Falls off too many blocks. Has questionable balance.
10. Wes Sims, 6-5, 317, Oklahoma. Physical player who makes blocks with intelligence and effort. Is a bit tight in space and tends to overextend. Plays tackle in college but is better suited for guard in the NFL because of limited athleticism.
More draft analysis: warroom.sportingnews.com.
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