Good news for Jarvis Jones today it seems, but will the NFL agree?
Better news for Jarvis Jones
We expected to have a better idea of Jarvis Jones’ stenosis issue after the combine, but there were no leaked medical reports to confirm or deny what USC had feared back in 2009. So we were left to speculate. Clearly teams will be wary of anything to do with stenosis, particularly if there are life threatening consequences. Yet Jones wasn’t only cleared to play by Georgia, he also had two relatively healthy seasons in the SEC.
Today, Dan Pompei provided the first piece of seemingly valid information on this matter. And it appears to be good news for Jarvis Jones:
Jones’ neck injury is starting to look like it might be a non-issue on draft day, and there is little chance he will fall out of the top 10. In a medical report that was sent to NFL teams, leading orthopedist Craig Brigham refutes that Jones ever had a significant spinal cord contusion. When he was at Southern Cal, the pass rusher was diagnosed with one, and Southern Cal did not allow him to play in 2010. Jones transferred to Georgia and played two seasons with no problems. Brigham concluded that Jones either had a very mild incident of spinal cord concussion or merely a stinger that has long since resolved. Even if another similar injury occurred, Brigham concluded it would not be a career ending issue. After recently examining Jones, Brigham concluded, “Jarvis is cleared to play without restriction.”
Of course, this is only one man’s take. USC and Georgia clearly didn’t share the same opinion on his future. There’s a chance other experts (including team doctors) will diagnose the situation differently than Craig Brigham.
If you want to assume they won’t, then Jones is back in contention to be a top-15 pick. This isn’t a defining report that renders the issue a non-factor. Even so, it only takes one team to make a similar assessment to ensure he is an early pick next month.
Cullen Jenkins update
Anyone hoping he’d be signing in Seattle will be disappointed…
Former Eagles DL Cullen Jenkins reached agreement on a three-year deal with the New York Giants.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 10, 2013
Numbers: Cullen Jenkins and Giants agreed to a three-year, $8 million deal that included a $2 million signing bonus and $3 million gtd.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 10, 2013
Eddie Lacy still injured
According to Adam Schefter, Lacy will not be able to work out at Alabama’s pro-day on March 13th. He missed the combine in February due to a hamstring problem. He will conduct an individual work out at some point but no date has been set.
It’s not been a great off-season for Lacy so far. He turned up at Indianapolis 11lbs heavier than his listed playing weight, then admitted he’d not necessarily kept in shape since the Notre Dame game.
He ended the season on fire, making the most of Alabama’s top-tier offensive line. For teams like St. Louis that’ll be looking for a power back, he makes some sense even in round one. Yet if the injury issues linger, if he can’t work out before the draft and if teams are concerned about his conditioning, he could easily drop. Plenty of teams find viable runner’s later in the draft. And while there’s always an Alfred Morris or Arian Foster to be had, a bad off-season can have an impact.
Personally, I’d like to avoid facing Lacy twice a season. The Rams are going to need a productive back to compete with Seattle and San Francisco in the NFC West. Lacy fits the bill, but is he working his way out of first round consideration?
Revisionist history
Bucky Brooks – March 2013. He was asked where Geno Smith would rank among the 2011 quarterbacks (Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder):
“I like him better than I liked Jake Locker. I think I liked him a little more than I liked Christian Ponder and Blaine Gabbert I wasn’t a big fan of. ”
Bucky Brooks – March 2011. He had Gabbert at #5 in his mock draft:
“You (Arizona) better take Blaine Gabbert at five. Big, athletic quarterback. Strong arm. Can make all the throws. Ken Whisenhunt will build an offense around his skills and I think the Arizona Cardinals offense will get back on track.”
Kawann Short unimpressive against Wisconsin
Watching a defensive lineman competing against Wisconsin is always a good benchmark. The Badgers consistently churn out big, aggressive, dominating run blockers who do a decent job protecting the quarterback.
It stands to reason that any defensive tackle drafted by the Seahawks is going to need to be able to defend the run. They have to be stout. While the teams biggest priority is to improve the pass rush, they can’t afford to walk into two games against the Niners with a weak interior defensive line. For all of Colin Kaepernick’s athletic ability outside of the hash marks, they’re still a power running team.
Purdue’s Kawann Short is a decent pass rusher, with good finishing speed and a decent swim move. He exploits gaps and works well into the backfield. At the Senior Bowl he was probably the most productive defensive lineman on the field after Ziggy Ansah.
Yet against Wisconsin (see below) I think he struggled. And that’s not a particularly good sign for anyone hoping to see Short in the Pacific North West.
It’s funny how many of the football guru’s make an arguement for a player and then a few years later deny they ever said that. No one is perfect and we all make mistakes. When you miss, you miss, admit it already.
Great job in putting what he said then next to what he says today. To me it destroys your accountabily forever when you pull that type of stuff.
Short had some problems against the run game here but I still thought he looked pretty good. Seems to have a bit of a problem finding the ball and gets himself steered where the O-lineman wants on occasion, but it didn’t look particularly egregious. He has a real knack for penetrating when that’s what he’s trying to do. He also seemed to take a lot less plays off in this game than I’ve seen him taking off elsewhere.
What i got from the film was when they ran at him he was double teamed and got plowed but then no one was there to really help him. There was more than half the plays thou where they ran away from him and he”s not going to chase down an especially quick back. The pass rush from what i saw in the tape wasn’t there but then the QB wasn,t holding it very long and he did alot of rolling out away from Kawann. What i really saw was linebackers not getting to the holes and trying to arm tackle a very poor defensive effort.
I am torn between wanting the draft to be here so we can finally figure out who we picked, and wanting the draft not to come so we can continue having these awesome conversations and debates on the blog. Kwan Short is interesting but I think I would rather have a few other players instead if we don’t address DT in the first and he is there in the second Id be happy…. I’m glad Jarvis Jones is healthy, and if he falls to us I hope we take him, and if he does not fall to us well then maybe he can push down some one the Hawks want into our range.
Agree on everything you just said Nolan.
Just a thought. This may be heresy. What about James Harrison to Seattle? He does not necessarily meet the profile for leo. But much like Courtney Upshaw last year he could collapse the pocket with his strength and defend the run adequately. He would make an excellent 1 year stop gap for added depth due to an injured Clemons.
Harrison’s pressures have dropped off something like 25% per year each of the last two years. He started his decline a couple of years ago and it isn’t likely to stop. He’s more name than production at this point.
He’s also probably gonna want to get paid quite a bit more than PCJS would be willing to offer for his production.
Just like QB in last year’s draft the Seahawks won’t panic at the interior pass rusher position. I’ve been a big fan of Kawaan Short but he played terribly against Wisconsin. He played so bad that he might be there in round two for the Hawks? I’m not sure if he he has unique enough qualities to warrant a first round grade from this team.
I think that’s essentially what it boils down to. Does Kawann Short have the special traits that this franchise seems to go for? I doubt it. Round two maybe.
Question about swope: I saw at the combine that swopes hands.measured at 8 1/2. Isnt that small? Is he a consistent hands catcher from what youve seen on tape?
From what I’ve seen so far, yes he is.
I know that I just posted this on another much more previous post, but I am afraid that you will not get to reading it since you are so busy and have to look through all of these comments as well. I always trust your opinions (Rob, Kip, and the SDB community).
“I know people say Ryan Swope is a lot like Wes Welker, but with his physical measureables dont you think a better comparison would be Mike Wallace?
Ryan Swope’s Physical Measureables:
http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/ryan-swope?id=2539323
Mike Wallace’s Physical Measurables:
http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/mike-wallace?id=81877
Just for the sake of comparison, here is Wes Welker’s measurables:
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=58574&draftyear=2004&genpos=WR
I would love to draft Ryan Swope with our first pick because personally, I would like to have a deep threat like Mike Wallace for less than $60 Million a year.”
He is an excellent hands catcher. He clearly doesn’t have issues catching balls with them. Even catches where he needs to extend (high throws and throws to the sidelines). Two types of catches where big strong hands are an asset. Swope is simply outstanding in his ability lay out for balls while keeping feet inbounds and having that ball stick like glue. Those are passes that should be limited by his hands but they most certainly are not. He is probably the best in CFB at those sideline routes. If they are a hindrance, then he’s found a way to compensate for them during his development.
The one issue I have seen that is likely attributable to that — are fumbles. He does have some difficulty carrying the ball securely as he runs. Now he’s instinctual, in that he protects the ball on anticipated contact. But you do see a couple instances where the ball gets hacked at from behind and stripped.
Is it more than the norm? I can’t say. You’re talking about a guy who catches 80 passes a year. So you’re going to see that from time to time just on the volume of plays he completes. You do see how awkwardly he cradles the ball as he runs. Not sure if that’s something that can be corrected.
I’ve had spinal stenosis as well as 3 bulging disc’s in my lower back for the last several years. I’m not a Dr. or an expert but I’ll try and explain stenosis as I understand it.
If you draw a 1″ circle and then in the center of that draw a 1/4″ circle, this becomes a look at the internal spinal column area, looking down from above. The large circle represents the spinal column & the small one, the spinal cord. The space between the 2 circles is where stenosis occurs. Shade in a portion of the area between those 2 circles, & that is where stenosis occurs (and as far as I know it’s primarily due to inflamation). I beleive there are also many nerves in that space that when pressured by inflamation can cause siatica (sp?) that can effect one or both legs with pain and or numbness.
I think disc’s that bulge on the exterior of the spine also bulge into that area between the 2 circles on the interior of the spine and adds to the inflamation problem by narrowing the space. The more inflamation there is, the greater the stenosis will be (keep in mind – arthritis is also an inflamation). Cortizone (SP?) shots directly into the spine can help a little, but the Dr’s don’t allow more than 3 shots a year. I haven’t received much benefit at all from the several of those shots I’ve had.
I’d assume a “mild” case of stenosis is just a “slight-or-moderate” filling in of that space between the circles. My MRI showed about 2/3 of that area was inflamed with stenosis. As far as I know, it takes an MRI to properly diagnose this condition and it would be totally impossible with just an “examinatioin” to determine much. Both of the back specialists that I’ve seen completely discount surgery as an option and that means I’ve had to learn to live with it.
As to “life threatening”, I’m not sure thats an accurate depiction of stenosis, especially if it’s described as “mild” stenosis. More likely, stenosis as well as bulging disc’s can end up limiting mobility & in more severe cases walking ability is significantly less to the extent of a wheelchair needed to get around. For example, I have had to use a cane for the last couple of years due to balance issues, my right leg is always about 50% numb & I have moderate lower back pain 24/7 which I try to control with pain meds. I can hobble with my cane for maybe 2-3 blocks and then I have to sit & rest and let the pain die down for awhile. It ain’t any fun getting old guys, I’m approaching 70 and it seems like it’s all down hill from here.
I’m not sure that a “mild” stenosis issue in a young, strong college football player would ever have much impact during his playing days, but I can also almost guarantee he’ll have some significant problems when he gets to be a senior citizen. I hope I’ve helped the general understanding of stenosis with this post.
Fantastic post Jim. Thank you for sharing that information.
You actually have a different type of stenosis. Like you, most people have a degenerative type of stenosis from either disks basically dryin out or from arthritic changes. Both of those require many years to accumulate and as they progress symptoms do as well. In a 20 year old, on the other hand, it would be highly unlikely he has such a chronic disease. Jarvis actually has a congenital stenosis was present from birth. In the end though, you’re right in that this isn’t something that’s going to present a big problem for many years, but he may or may not have problems down the road.
Thank you Jim! You post was fantastic!
Have to admit, Ryan Swopes is starting to warm on me. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqojIuOdJ3k
pretty good video especially catching the tennis balls.
That was VERY cool!!
I know this is isn’t really draft related, but what about bringing in Rey Maualuga? I’m not sure what LB position he plays but maybe he could play weak or backup Wagner/ Wright. Still young (26) and would be reunited with his old LB coach.
He’s primarily MLB/WLB, IIRC.
Not sure how much improvement would be expected over the rest of the USC crew, but if anyone outside of Cincinnati knows its PC and KN. Would need to balance that with the added cost of adding him.
Rob, Kip, anyone, know anything on Caleb Schreibeis? DE out of FCS Montana State? He seems to have some special qualities as a former walk on who just won defensive player of the year for FCS. 8 FF, 11 solo TFL, 10 sacks. He seems like the FCS version of John Simon but could be had a bit later. Im not overly skilled in judging skill of off game tape but the numbers are there that would make him unique and probably a late round or UDFA if I had to guess.
Hi Craig, unfortunately I don’t have access to FCS tape so I can’t offer much of an opinion I’m afraid. There’s no tape online, but there is this highlights video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m23cEwEi9wE
I’ll jump in with an unrelated comment – any chance that Rutgers poor QB play lets Brandon Coleman slip to the late first next year?
Hard to say at this stage. Given his limitless potential I’d say it’s unlikely.
I’ve had the benefit of getting some insight from some coworkers and rabid Rutgers alums that attend the games. I talked with them about Harrison and Coleman (amongst others like Greene and Logan Ryan).
On Harrison: He is the ultimate break your heart prospect. Their QB play was highly inconsistent. But occasionally, there would be opportunities where he would actually see the field and Harrison would be open and the ball would be moderately accurate — enough to complete the pass. And on multiple occasions, Harrison would drop the ball on what should have been touchdowns.
Talent is there. Measurables there. But on the impact plays, he becomes notoriously absent. This has been a consistent trend over his career. He should be more than he is. He just isn’t.
It was theorized here, that it was possible that Harrison’s opportunities and role was reduced with the introduction of Coleman. I think that is probably not the case. I am coming to the conclusion that he played his way out of that role by himself. Even when given the opportunity this past year, he proved unequal to the task.
On Coleman: He has a tantalizing physical skill set. He has the potential to be better than Kenny Britt — maybe even this upcoming year. We’ve discussed at length here on his positive aspects. Aspects that they echoed. I’ll add some of the limitations as they saw it.
1. Route discipline. His routes are poor but developing. He loses separation he otherwise gains because of it. This is an item to watch for 2013 as it pertains to his ability to develop.
2. Ball tracking. His ability to pick up the ball in flight was considered poor. They related that there was more than one time where a perfectly placed ball struck him smack in the face. But beyond those spectacular examples, he visibly has a sluggish awareness for where the ball is when he turns his head to look for it (late to adjust to the ball).
3. Hands. Needs to become more consistent with his hands. There is evidence that his hand strength is just underdeveloped and needs to improve as he matures and gets better physically. This is something to watch for but would expect it to improve this year. He does appear to have decent hands. But he doesn’t always use them when he should trust them more.
Interestingly, they did mention, that Khaseem Greene was their favorite all time Scarlet Knight. A player who is just scratching the surface on how good he will be. He is a guy who in the last two years, one could see leaps of improvement within an individual season — as opposed to year to year. One of them had a very interesting observation that I found neat:
“You often hear of players keying on reads to know where the ball is going. As a fan, you just watch Greene. He will tell you where the ball is going”.
Great notes, Attyla.
Seconded. Thanks Attyla!
John Simon’s tape looked pretty good vs. Nebraska and Wisconsin with RW at the helm. On one play Simon catches RW in the open field and rag dolls him! Check out the repertoire of moves and hand techniques!
VS Nebraska (2012): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPAWU1Oc1iw
VS Wisconsin (2011): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbWfBBqr_F8
More and more it seems that Texas A&M was a loaded team.
Christine Michael put up some amazing numbers at the combine. So I thought I’d go back and check the film.
There is 2011 film. He takes a while to get into a rhythm but once he does he started to look good:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2F0weofv4c
Here is 2012 tape vs Auburn and Miss St. He looks much more comfortable and quick.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l52K5QZ2OEw
Wouldn’t be surprised if he turns turn out to be this years Doug Martin.
Glad we didn’t sign Cullen Jenkins. I loved him a few years ago but anyone watching the Eagles last season could see he didn’t have that same gap explosion and can’t believe the Giants gave him $3 guaranteed.
With Abraham’s 2012 production, he’s going to get a 2 year deal in the $8 million range with a $3 million signing bonus or 1 year for $4million. When Clemons returns and you have Abraham playing the old R Brock role on the SSide with Irvin moving all over as a bandit, that’d be a nice pass rush trio. PC/JS still draft a LEO but won’t have those 1st year expectations and one that can play some run but has that quick first step.
I’m all in favor of signing Abraham. He fits our 4-3 perfectly, even at 35 yo.
Btw, scouts are projecting Simon to convert to a Teddy Bruschi role. Bruschi was a sack master at UofA with 19 his sophomore year but then moved around at the LB role at NE. Simon will find a position, it’s only where will be the question.
I’d love to see John Simon in Seattle. Just got a feeling he’ll succeed in whatever he does.
This (or something very similar) seems inevitable in light of today’s Harvin trade.
This just in: Seahawks in lead position for a trade with the Vikings for Percy Harvin. !Que Terible! Not saying I would hate this, but I would have a heart attack if we traded a first round pick for him. What price do you think the Hawks would be willing to pay for him?
(Disclaimer: I got this info just now from B******* R*****)
Schefter confirms. I’m down with Harvin if it is not a 1st…and hopefully not a 2nd..
We have completed a trade pending a physical :/ hopefully we traded Matt Flynn instead of picks! Haha
Traded our 1st + a late pick
Oh crap.
ESPN just confirmed the trade for our first! I am stunned.
That sounded negative, it is not however. I am just sad the first round pick is being used and Harvin’s asking price will probably be extrodinary. So, who gets cut. Tate? I would be upset to lose Tate.
They will not cut Golden Tate.
Might we be looking at a trade scenario that involves Flynn and/or some role players like Leon Washington? I’m thinking JAX or NYJ.
I doubt it. I think they might cut Leon (shame, but that’s business) and god knows what they do with Flynn. No obvious trade partner. He might be cut to make a small saving.
If Washington is gone, it will be a shame to lose a great KR.
Then again, it’s a pretty good position to be in when your options are so good that you can cut a pro bowler for someone better.