Guards

Sporting News, The, Nov 26, 2001 by Dan Pompei

Teams typically shy away from drafting guards early, because the position isn't as valued as most others. But there should be about half a dozen senior guards chosen on the first day this year.

1. Kendall Simmons, 6-2, 313, Auburn. Very athletic player with quick feet. Bends well. Finishes blocks and plays with an attitude. Has great upper body strength. Plays tackle at Auburn, but given his lack of height, he probably will be a guard in the NFL.

2. Andre Gurode, 6-3, 320, Colorado. Physical player who knows how to use his strength. Finishes the deal once he gets his hands on a defender. Has a nasty streak. Is a pretty good athlete. Also has the ability to play center.

3. Fred Weary, 6-4, 301, Tennessee. Athletic blocker who plays with power. Is big and physical. Plays with an attitude. Has had recurring foot problems, which are a bit of a concern. Versatile player who also can be considered at center.

4. Terrence Metcalf, 6-3, 320, Mississippi. Rare combination of bulk and athleticism. Has very good balance. Can mash defenders but doesn't always finish blocks. Had a bad ankle injury a couple of years ago that could be a factor in his longevity.

5. Ed Ta'amu, 6-1, 323, Utah. A mauler who shows good pop off the snap and strong hands. Pretty good athletically. Has very good foot speed, but he doesn't always translate it to the playing field. Needs to improve his technique.

6. Jonathan Goodwin, 6-2, 290, Michigan. Lunch-pail player who plays well in space and can take on linebackers. Typical Michigan lineman, although he probably is a cut below the ones who came out last year. Isn't real explosive or athletic.

7. Eric Heitmann, 6-3, 295, Stanford. Very athletic prospect. Bends his knees and drops his weight well. Finishes blocks. Hasn't been terribly consistent, but he has been very good when on his game. Smart player with upside.

8. Antwan Kirk-Hughes, 6-3, 315, Texas. Effective player who consistently gets the job done. Plays in a real low stance. Uses his hands very well. Doesn't get pushed around. Is average athletically.

9. Martin Bibla, 6-3, 290, Miami. Has an outstanding motor and a great temperament for the game. Limited athletically.

10. Frank Romero, 6-3, 291, Oklahoma. Has good quickness and athletic ability and knows how to pass protect. Will need to play more physically in the NFL. College tackle likely will be shifted to guard.