SB Nation - Antonio Appleby

Patriots 2009 undrafted free agents

MaPatsFan — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 02:19:15 -0000

And you thought it was over... Silly, silly Patriots fan. ;-) One day after the draft, Belichick and crew are working their magic to yank in more players. Some (most?) could be training camp fodder - just more meat to bang around - but they're needed, right?

Leading off is Kentucky Safety Marcus McClinton. Jimmy Trodglen, Leaf Chronicle Newspaper reporter, tells us:

McClinton was in Lexington, Ky. over the weekend taking in Saturday's UK spring football game. He had a strong showing in the NFL Combine and the UK Pro Day, and had spoken with 22 of the league's teams leading up to the draft. If he makes the cut, McClinton would be the first player from the Fort Campbell/Clarksville area to play for an NFL team since Harry Galbreath played into the late '90s, owning stops with the Dolphins, Jets and Packers.

via www.baltimoresun.com, That would be Marcus saying, "Hello!"

From draftcountdown.com:

Was arrested in 2007 and charged with first-degree wanton endangerment after an incident involving the use of household products to make crude bombs...Solid all-around prospect with decent measurables who has the ability to contribute as a backup in the pros.

Oh boy. Bombs? Maybe he belongs on the special forces or...at safety. That's it, we'll put him at safety. Who knows. Why we'd pickup a late round/FA is beyond me unless we need some training camp fodder or special teamers.

Next up: LB Antonio Appelby. Big and fast (6-3 245 lbs, 4.67) he lacks the physical skills, but seems to know when it counts. Apparently, he improved his draft stock with excellent workouts.

via image.cdnl3.xosnetwork.com, That's the Antonio "mean face"

draftcountdown.com says:

Was a three-year starter for the Cavaliers...Played immediately as a backup in every game as a true freshman in 2005...Helped his draft stock by working out much better than expected...Played inside in a 3-4 scheme at Virginia and that will be his optimal fit at the next level.

Antonio is vying for a spot at ILB. Luckily, the program is run by a former Patriots coach and the 3-4 should be familiar to Appelby. Again, more training camp muscle to play with, but who knows what the kid can do. Belichick has the answers. Hopefully, we all learn how to spell his last name (is it "le" or "el"?).

Arizona Cardinals Post Draft Coverage: Best Undrafted Free Agents

Hawkwind — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:19:30 -0000

Well the fire from the NFL draft weekend is still smoldering but today, and possibly the next couple of days, will center around the guys who did not get drafted. The Arizona Cardinals signed thirteen undrafted free agents and four of those guys are on the team right now including Ali Highsmith who was a prominent special teams player before hurting his knee midway through the season. The Cardinals could find some very useful pieces on this scrap heap but they'll have to work quickly because they're bidding against every other team in the league. We'll take a look at some of the notable names as well as update when any signings happen:

Here are some names that might ring a bell and will certainly be on the top of quite a few teams' wish list:

Linebackers: The Cardinals didn't draft an ILB for the second consecutive year but there are some notable names still available and with any luck, these guys might turn out even better than Ali Highsmith did last year. There are couple of outside backers at the bottom who might interest the Cardinals considering that they probably stash them on the practice squad and see how they look in a year once they learn the position.

Darry Beckwith (6'0, 234), LSU: Beckwith was thought be a third or fourth round pick at worse but his injury history and lack of great size or athleticism must have hurt him more than scouts thought.
Dannell Ellerbe (6'1 236) Georgia: Teams obviously thought that Ellerbe's breakout season in 2007 was overshadowed by three mediocre seasons. He'll have an uphill battle to make any team but he's got some athleticism and could be a factor on special teams.
Antonio Appleby (6'3 245) Virginia: He's nothing special in terms of production or athletic ability but a 3-4 team will pick him up for depth and his potential as a two down thumper.
Worrell Williams (5'11, 240) California: Williams is undersized but he's got experience in a 3-4 and the athleticism to be an NFL player.
Orion Martin (6'3, 262) Virginia Tech: Another former college DE who is probably best served switching to OLB, he's totaled 14 sacks over the past two seasons but ran a disappointing 4.89 at the combine.

Defensive Line: The Cardinals completely ignored the defensive line in the draft despite some concerns about the depth at defensive end and nose tackle. I'd be surprised if a couple of UDFA's aren't some wide bodied defenders.

Chris Baker (6'2 326) Hampton: Off the field problems forced him to leave Penn State and most likely are the biggest reason that's he field phone calls today instead of packing for an NFL team already. He's got the talent (16.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks) to play in this league but will need soem guidance.
Mitch King (6'1, 280) Iowa: King played defensive end, tackle and even linebacker while at Iowa and could project at either end or linebacker in the NFL. His tweener status probably kept him from being drafted by he's a versatile defender who carried a mid-round grade from some scouts.
Everette Pedescleaux (6'5, 305) Northern Iowa: The Cardinals were rumored to have brought Pedescleaux in for a visit before the draft and he'd offer some depth and athleticism at the defensive end spot.

Offensive skill positions: While the Cardinals might be stacked at running back after the selections of Wells and LSH, it wouldn't hurt to add another body to man the practice squad. Any receiver with some return potential might also be intriguing as should any balanced tight end.

Jeremiah Johnson (5'9 209) Oregon: He was never really a featured runner but he totalled over 2,000 yards at Oregon and averaged over six yards per carry. He's also got experience returning kicks.
Ian Johnson (5'11, 212) Boise State: Johnson ran surprisingly fast at the combine (4.46) but his long list of injury is concerning.
Devin Moore (5'9, 191) Wyoming: Moore's size hurts his stock but his athleticism is amazing and he could help a team as a third down back and kick returner.
Kory Sheets (5'11, 208) Purdue: Another smallish back with outstanding speed (4.47) who doubles as a back and return man.
Marlon Lucky and Arian Foster (5'11, 216 & 6'1, 215): Both Lucky and Foster were starting backs who ran disappointing 40's and failed to establish themselves as NFL material but seven rounds of waiting might just be the motivation that they needed.
Quan Cosby (5'9, 196) Texas: He's small and old for an NFL rookie (26) but he is faster than he timed (4.57) and was a successful punt and kick returner at Texas.
Jeremy Gilchrist (5'9 176) Hampton: Gilchrist is tiny and was neutralized by double teams after totaling over a 1,000 yards in 2007 but his six punt return touchdowns in the past two years is hard to ignore.
Ryan Purvis (6'3, 254) Boston College: A physically limited tight end whose senior production drastically dropped off with Matt Ryan gone, but he's physical, willing blocker who had over 50 reception in 2007.
Jared Bronson (6'4, 254) Central Washington: Bronson's a decent in-line blocker who has also shown the ability to stretch the field (17.9 yards per catch in 2008).

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There are countless other guys we could mention but that's a small taste. Who else would you like to see the Cardinals take a look at? What positions still need the most help?

Arizona Cardinals Potential Draft Picks: Inside Linebackers

Hawkwind — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 09:00:16 -0000

About the month ago it looked like the Arizona Cardinals were solid at inside linebacker with Karlos Dansby and Gerald Hayes as the starters and Victor Hobson and Ali Highsmith providing depth. At that time the biggest need on the inside might have been another developmental player for depth but nothing about the inside linebackers suggested that the position was a pressing need. That warm, fuzzy feeling quickly faded though when Dansby fired his agent and spoke publically about looking forward to making a splash in free agency next off season. While it's still possible for Dansby to agree to a long term extension, it certainly won't happen before this weekend and with that in mind the Cardinals must enter the 2009 draft with the possibility of needing a starter at ILB in 2010.

The Cardinals don't have to push inside linebacker to the top of their needs list but it has become a position that we can not afford to neglect. Since we've over looked the entire position until now in ROTB's draft preparation, here's a look at the crop of talent that should be avaliable in the middle to late rounds.

Darry Beckwith (6'0 234): Beckwith has been a productive linebacker during his time at LSU where he was a three year starter and two time 2nd team All-SEC linebacker. He's got experience inside and outside but most scouts project him on the inside at the pro level. He didn't disappointed some with 4.79 forty and 26.5 vertical jump but he improved on his forty (4.65) at LSU's pro day to ease some concerns about his athleticism. He's not a great athlete and injuries are big concern but when healthy, he's one of the better linebackers in the country. Questions abound about Beckwith's potential in the NFL but he sounds like a solid football player who didn't wow scouts in the 'pre-draft' workouts. Projected Round: Late 2nd to late 3rd

Compares to: Gary Brackett (Indy)

Pros - Beckwith has a good sized frame that could still be bulked up without a loss of quickness or agility. He's a decent athlete who makes plays from sideline to sideline and makes plays in pursuit. He's at his best when playing down hill against the run where he's aggressive and physical. He's a reliable tackler who's capable of getting off blockers, sifting through traffic and making plays. He flashes some explosiveness as a hitter and knows his limitations and roles within a defense.

Cons - Injuries are the biggest concern with Beckwith as he's missed time in each of the past three seasons with knee and shoulder injuries. He's also shorter than your typical linebacker and isn't overly strong or fast. Beckwith isn't a great pass rusher either and he's not totally comfortable in coverage.

Jasper Brinkley (6'1, 249): Brinkely burst on the scene in 2006 when he transferred to South Carolina from Georgia Military College and totaled 107 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. His 2007 season ended just four games in after a knee injury and his 2008 season he simply didn't look like the same player. Some scouts suggest that he played overweight while some speculate that he simply wasn't 100%. Two years removed from the surgery though Brinkley has been rising up the charts with some impressive workouts. His 4.72 forty at the combine was among the best at his position and his 35.5 inch vertical helped prove that the explosiveness is back in his game. If Brinkley can recapture the form that he displayed in 2006, he could be a steal in the middle of the draft provided that he stays healthy. Projected Round: 3rd

Compares to: Larry Foote (Pittsburgh)

Pros - With prototypical size and strength for the position, Brinkley brings a unique combination of size and athleticism to the table. He's a reliable tackler who is capable a delivering a monster blow. He's got solid short area quickness and has the ability to work through trash and find the ball carrier. He's very solid against the run and a good pass rusher with a solid burst to get to the quarterback.

Cons - Brinkley's abilities as a run defender and pass rusher do not extend to coverage where he looks stiff and uncomfortable in space. He doesn't play as physical as his size and strength would suggest and he needs to rely on his size advantage instead of trying to slip blocks. His instincts and awareness are still in the developmental stages and he can be fooled by misdirection or play action.

Gerald McRath (6'2 230): Few linebackers have put up the numbers of McRath over the past two seasons (276 tackles), but his lack of size projects his as a 4-3 outside linebacker. He's good athlete but looks like a strong safety instead of linebacker and his play is too soft for a 3-4 inside backer. Projected Round: 3rd to 4th

Compares to: Micheal Boley (formerly of Atlanta)

Jason Phillips (6'1, 239): Phillips isn't a 'wow' player but he gets the job done and is the only player in Mountain West Conference history to earn first or second team honors in all four seasons that he played. He surprised scouts when broke off a 4.69 forty at the combine but he also tore a meniscus in his left knee while at the combine. He's still on crutches but claims that he'll be ready for the start of training camp. Regardless of how quickly he's able to return to full strength Phillips should have a solid career based on his work ethic and dedication to the game. Projected Round: 4th

Compares to: Monty Beisel (formerly of.....well you know)

Pros - He's got a solid frame that's perfectly suited for an inside backer in the 3-4. He plays to contact and is able to shed blocks quickly and work through trash to find the ball. He combines great instincts, a solid football IQ and a non stop motor to make plays that other backers wouldn't and he's got the power to deliver big hits. He's at his best when playing downhill against the run but he can also hold his own on coverage. He's got decent ball skills and is able to read the eyes of opposing QB.

Cons - Phillips doesn't have great height and he's certainly not the best athlete. His lack of lateral quickness prevents him from making plays sideline to sideline and he doesn't have the athletic ability to overcome his own mistakes when he over pursues or is fooled. He can be an decent blitzer but his repertoire is limited to a powerful bull rush and when he gets too aggressive he'll whiff. Basically his lack of athleticism narrows his margin for error on the field.

Dannell Ellerbe (6'1 236): Ellerbe is a perplexing prospect because he's had one great season (2007) and three highly mediocre seasons. His breakout year in 2007 saw him move to the inside backer spot and flourish to the tune of 93 tackles, 12 for loss and 4.5 sacks. In his other three seasons combined he's managed just 55 tackles, nine for less and four sacks. His senior season in 2008 was hampered by a knee injury that completely knocked him out of three games and limited him in several others. He's played all three linebacker spots but his best play has come when on the inside. He also didn't do a full workout at the combine because of a torn chest muscle but he did break off an impressive 4.64 at his pro day. He also got into some off the field problems in 2006 but heading into this past season his stock was much, much higher than it is now. Projected Round: mid 4th to late 5th

Compares to: Bart Scott (formerly of the Ravens)

Pros - Ellerbe has a well built frame that should be able to add some bulk without effecting his athleticism. He's got above average straight line speed and solid quickness and acceleration. He's physical in the running game, showing the ability to take on and shed blocks while maintaining his aggressiveness. He's an explosive hitter when the meets the ball carrier and the quickness to beat blockers to the play. He's a good pass rusher and one of the better cover linebackers in the country. He gets deep into his drops, looks comfortable in space and has shown the ability to bait quarterbacks by reading their eyes.

Cons - He's a tad undersized, especially for a 3-4 backer, and he too often relies on his athleticism to make plays instead of playing within the system. He can miss some tackles when trying to go high for a big hit. Overall his lack of consistent productivity combined with an off the field incident in 2006 (DUI) have hurt his stock.

Scott McKillop (6'1 245): McKillop is another 'lunch pail' guy taken from the same mold as Jason Phillips. McKillop took over as the starter in 2007 and all he did was total 288 tackles, 27.5 for loss and seven sacks over the past two seasons en route to back to back first team All-Big East teams and the 2008 Big East Defensive Player of the year award. As expected, he didn't turn anyone's head working out in shorts and a t-shirt (4.79 forty) but his abilities are apparent when you watch tape on him. Teams will have to decide if his productive college career will translate to the speed of the NFL game. Projected Round: 5th round

Compares to: Zach Thomas (formerly of Dallas)

Pros - McKillop is an extremely hard worker with a ton of football intelligence. He's got great instincts on the field and is a solid tackler. He moves well in trash and always seems to find himself around the football. He has shown some ability to handle his own is shallow zones and can pick up a receiver or tight end coming across the middle. He was team leader at Pitt and extremely productive.

Cons - McKillop's game is limited because he does not have great athletic ability. He has trouble chasing down plays from behind and needs to get stronger to take on NFL lineman. He can really get into trouble when he gets too aggressive as he doesn't have the speed or quickness to compensate. He doesn't have very good ball skills and isn't doesn't offer much as a pass rusher.

Antonio Appleby (6'3 245): Appleby has been overshadowed by the likes of Chris Long and Clint Sintim but his size and physicality is a big reason why Virginia's 3-4 defense was successful. He's been a three year starter averaging 67 tackles, five for loss and just over a sack per season. Of all the linebackers in the draft, he's got the most experience in the 3-4 and some scouts even suggest he could contribute immediately despite his mid-to-late round draft grade. Projected Round: late 5th to early 7th

Compares to: Eric Barton (Cleveland)

Pros - Appleby has prototypical size and build for a 3-4 inside backer with above average athleticism for his size. He's a tough, physical player who's got the upper and lower body strength to handle even the biggest linemen. He's also has good lateral agility to avoid blockers and work his way to the ball where he's a solid tackler. He's a decent blitzer and can hold his own in coverage on a limited basis.

Cons - Despite his strength and power, Appleby can struggle to disengage from blocks once the defender latches on and his instincts and football IQ leave something to be desired. His motor can be inconsistent and some scouts project him as strictly a 'two-down' player.

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As you might expect there are some other guys on towards the bottom of the list that we didn't mention, such as Nick Reed (Oregon), Frantz Joseph (Florida Atlantic) and Josh Mauga (Nevada) but the present list paints a pretty solid picture. It's pretty clear that if the Cardinals want to target an ILB in the middle to late rounds, there are some interesting names out there especially considering nothing is expected from them in 2009. Who stands out to you and who's name did we miss?

ILB, Antonio Appleby, Virginia

Jeremy Bolander — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 22:08:12 -0000

ILB, Antonio Appleby, Virginia

At A Glance
Position 1: Inside Linebacker	Height: 6-4
Position 2:	Weight: 243
Class: Senior	Age:
Projected Round: 6th-7th	40time: 4.72

Combine/Proday Results
Bench Reps: X	Vertical: X
20yd Split: X	Broad Jump: X
10yd Split: X	20yd Shuttle: X
3 Cone Drill: X

Pros: Prototypical build for the position. ... Thick, powerful build.

Cons: Good bulk and strength, but struggles to disengage from blocks.

Styg's Broncos Fit: This is one of the few late round ILBs that I think has the potential to actually start for Denver. He has terrific size at 6-4, 243, and he played in a primarily 3-4 alignment in college, starting for three years, so the experience is there. He is stout at the point of attack,an excellent wrap-up tackler, though he can sometimes try too hard for the big hit. Against the run he is every bit as effective as Maualuga in the 1st round, but he lacks Rey's explosive first step and pent up power. Appleby's closing speed leaves something to be desired, but he is an experienced and effective blitzer, who knows how to use his hands to stay clean, and doesn't lose a lot of momentum shooting the gap. Tight hips and only marginal feet make him a liability in coverage however, and he doesn't have the quickness to stay with WRs or even most TEs. But this late in the draft his run-plugging ability is a rarity, and he could provide immediate two down help.

Around MHR:

Around SBNation:

From "Emerging Need" at The Phinsider:

As you can see, he definitely has the size we are angling for. And for his size, he has above average straightline speed. Although pass coverage isn't his strong point, he is more than willing to give it a try, and is far more fluid than his large frame would suggest. When called upon, he can also rush the passer on an ILB blitz to decent effect. To give you an idea of his athleticism, he was the 25th ranked LB coming out of HS, but the 9th ranked TE. It could be lucky for us that he stuck to defense. He definitely earns his bread stopping the run; he has excellent football instincts, and usually knows where the ball is. He can find the proper tackling lanes, beat or shed the block, and brings his man down. He is schematically sound, knows where his gap is, and hits it hard. If he gets to the ball carrier, he usually is not getting any yards after contact.

The biggest pro in his favor is that, like Clint Sintim, he played at UVa for Al Groh, who is a Parcells disciple, so he will come right out of the gates with an advantage of playing in not just a pro style defense, but a 3-4 defense which is very rare at the major college level.

Highlights:

Scouting Reports and Offsite Links:

Antonio Appleby is a big inside linebacker that has a nose for the ball. Part of the reason he's so appealing to NFL teams right now is the growing popularity of the 3-4 defense. He was a starting ILB for 3 years at Virginia. With him, you get a big, run stuffing ILB who also has enough speed to possibly play on the outside. I listed him as a 4-star performer in this year's Texas vs. the Nation Game and he had a key fumble recovery playing MLB in a 4-3. I expect him to be taken on the 2nd day of the draft. Talking to him you really get the feeling he's an intelligent guy who will do everything he can to reach his great potential. [see more...]
Like Joseph, Appleby played well enough to make you wonder why he wasn’t at the Shrine Game or Senior Bowl. Appleby flowed to the ballcarrier very well against wide runs and shed blockers to make the tackle like a stout middle linebacker. [see more...]

2009 NFL Draft--Manning the Middle: Inside Linebackers, Ranked for Denver

Jeremy Bolander — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:55:29 -0000

We all know how much help Denver needs on the defensive side of the ball, and ILB where only DJ and Larsen have more than a snowball's chance of remaining on the team, will be a high area of concern.

This draft crop features a host of desirable candidates, a number of tweeners, a few injury risks, and a whole rank of late-round, high-potential standouts.

I found it harder to look at ILBs this year across the board, as I ran into more instances of "surrounding talent" questions than I have in the past. It takes some time to separate a LB from the play of the defensive line, and it is particularly hard to separate an ILB from the line play and of his outside helpers. What I do like is there is something for everyone in this class, whether you want a smart, technically oriented LBer or a headhunter with rare explosiveness. But this is an ILB class that tapers off strongly, before hitting a late-round glut of developmental guys with good-to-great instincts and some major pluses, from the kid with tremendous intelligence to the 47 game iron-man.

I like Denver's chances to get what they need at ILB, including their great position for targeting the cream of the crop, and their multiple late-round selections where they have multiple choices with the same kind of upside.

Let's check out the rankings:

ILB-Rey Maualuga

1st

Rey Maualuga, USC: Maualuga's motor is great, but not unheard of, and his sideline-to-sideline speed makes him very versatile, but there are several LBs with good speed. What Maualuga does bring however, is a rare burst of explosiveness when closing on the line. He has the power of a top DT bundled into the frame of an ILB. One drawback is his recklessness, as he seems to sacrifice awareness for explosion, which could lead to gap trouble. His tackling also suffers for this, as he sometimes gets his head down and loses track of his target. As a base formation run stopper he could provide significant upgrade to Denver's defense, and with his average hips but excellent feet, he should be able to contribute in coverage as well. He has a chance to contribute inside on almost any down, which makes him a tremendous value. In fact, the only formation I can think of where he would be the odd man out is a straight base 4-3, where he is responsible for the line calls.

ILB-James Laurinaitis

1st

James Laurinaitis, Ohio State: If ever there were an aristocrat of the LB position, James is it. What he brings to the game is an above average LB instinct, with a workmanlike attitude and a dedication to the craft. He uses his hands very well, understands zone coverage and has adequate hips and feet to cover his responsibilities. Where he shines is in the tactical department, baiting QBs, evading offensive blockers. He is excellent at technically defeating blocks and he can contribute in sideline-to-sideline pursuit with his knack for finding the ball and keeping his legs clean. If there is a knock against Laurinaitis, it is that he comes across as a more cerebral MLB and less of a pure athlete. Questions about his ability to adjust to the physicality of the NFL, and what that would mean to his already lackluster production, make him a top prospect to consider, but at five stars, not six.

ILB-Darry Beckwith

2nd-3rd

Darry Beckwith, LSU: This prospect is all about the "upside". With only limited exposure to the LB position Beckwith managed to accrue some good production. But unfortunately, beneath the production are a tidal wave of concerns. He was rarely used as a blitzer, and really doesn't have ideal size. He was kept back in zones much of the time, and though his feet are good (he has played RB and WR before) his hips are below-average, and as a result he would often try to take up position in his zone too early. His offensive pedigree is evident in his speed and terrific ball skills but he lacks the physicality sought in a run-stopping ILB. Factor in some character concerns, including a brush with the law, and Beckwith, despite the obvious athleticism, just doesn't bring enough to the Denver Broncos' table. 3 stars.

ILB-Scott McKillop

3rd

Scott McKillop, Pittsburgh: This tenacious and intelligent prospect has a lot about him to like, and reminds one of Denver's own Spencer Larsen. McKillop has tremendous production to go with his intangibles however, and still has upside, having only two very consistent years as a starter under his belt. By far McKillop is primarily an instinctual player, but he has great intelligence, and he shows patience and efficacy in executing MLB duties. Not a tremendously strong player, he tends to wear out opponents rather than overpower them, including being a drag-down type of tackler. But he doesn't shy away from making contact, and he has a rare knack for sniffing out the play. Protects his body well from trash, and keeps his feet in any situation. Where he really shines is situational awareness. When match-ups send him to the slot he knows to get his hands on the receiver early and often, disrupting the routes, and when he is protecting the first down he has a great awareness of the markers and doesn't let routes press to close. If he can show adequate strength at the combine his stock should rise, but any professional program should bring out the best in McKillop, in physicality and adding strength.

ILB-Gerald McRath

3rd-4th

Gerald McRath, Southern Miss: This player has value from a basic versatility standpoint, and he has very surprising numbers, which indicate a high level of production. But when I look at him, I don't see traits that suit Denver well. He lacks strength and explosiveness, and has the build of a defensive back, but poor coverage awareness and tight hips indicate the transition would be a tough one. Has a lot of hustle, which contributes to his production, but doesn't have the speed to compensate for mistakes that take him out of the play. He is a very athletic player, however, and may project better to WLB for some team running a 4-3. He is also a secure tackler, and takes smart angles. In the final analysis McRath would project as a versatile backup and special teams contributor, with enough athleticism to compete for spot duty on the outside of the LB corp. He is worth targeting, but would have to fall pretty far in the draft to warrant being taken as a one-star choice.

ILB-Dannell Ellerbe

4th

Dannell Ellerbe, Georgia: In a 4-3 Dannell projects clearly as a SAM, which can be difficult to find, but he has the tenacity around the line of scrimmage, and the versatility in coverage to play well at LILB and LOLB in a 3-4. He has a good frame and can add another 10 lbs of mass with no sacrifice, and at that higher weight could be an intimidating run-stopping force. Has great hips, and is physical with receivers around the line. Terrific body control, very fluid in motion and has good balance and lateral movement. A recent knee injury makes him a wait-and-see prospect, and past character concerns make a stock-drop very plausible. As a versatile backup, with experience at each LB position, and the ability to drop effectively into coverage, as well as a sure special teams performer, Ellerbe would be a great pickup in the right round. If he checks out medically, three stars will be the going price.

ILB-Jason Phillips

4th-5th

Jason Phillips, TCU: Mostly a backup candidate, Phillips does a little of everything, including long-snapping. He is a physical tackler, and an adequate coverage player in zone. He doesn't have the speed or quickness to hang with receivers in man coverage, but he does do a good job of keeping his eyes in the backfield and his awareness up. Can play a little too aggressively, and can expose gaps, and he doesn't have the athleticism or quickness to make up for errors or pursue laterally. He can, however, continue to grow and add bulk, and as a defensive role player and backup, he could have value. If he falls far enough he could be a valuable consideration for immediate special teams contribution, and a handy backup and heir apparent to the long-snapping position. One star.

ILB-Worrell Williams

5th-6th

Worrell Williams, Cal: DJ's little brother is long on athleticism and short on instincts. Legitimate speed, quickness and balance, coupled with experience at multiple LB positions make him worthy of a long look, but outside of more brotherly intrigue on the defense, there doesn't look to be a lot of draw with this pick. He is undersized, not nearly as productive as you would like a pure athlete ILB to be, and he has awareness issues in coverage. One star, mostly for upside.

ILB-Antonio Appleby

6th

Antonio Appleby, Virginia: This is one of the few late round ILBs that I think has the potential to actually start for Denver. He has terrific size at 6-4, 243, and he played in a primarily 3-4 alignment in college, starting for three years, so the experience is there. He is stout at the point of attack,an excellent wrap-up tackler, though he can sometimes try too hard for the big hit. Against the run he is every bit as effective as Maualuga in the 1st round, but he lacks Rey's explosive first step and pent up power. Appleby's closing speed leaves something to be desired, but he is an experienced and effective blitzer, who knows how to use his hands to stay clean, and doesn't lose a lot of momentum shooting the gap. Tight hips and only marginal feet make him a liability in coverage however, and he doesn't have the quickness to stay with WRs or even most TEs. But this late in the draft his run-plugging ability is a rarity, and he could provide immediate two down help.

ILB-Jasper Brinkley

7th

Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina: I really love this prospect, and I think Denver should take a long, hard look at him. He is a prototype for the 3-4, at 6'2", 260lbs, and he brings more than adequate physicality with those measurables. After an early transfer from a military college, he managed amazing production as a sophomore only to lose his entire junior season torn ACL injury. He managed to return partway through the 2008 campaign, but couldn't duplicate his earlier production. He isn't really a coverage backer, but he can drop back, with decent feet. He needs to work on his hand placement and possibly include some explosiveness training in any rehab he does. Watch for his "jump" scores at his pro day to see if he is getting back to his sophomore levels in these areas. At his sophomore levels of production, he could be a three star prospect. As it is he needs to check out medically. One star for a bundle of possibility and potential.

ILB-Dominic Douglas

7th-FA

Dominic Douglas, Mississippi State: racked up production in college, but won't produce those kinds of numbers in the NFL. But if you dig into this kids game, you see a lot of potential. He isn't the biggest body, but his frame can take more weight, and he already knows how to uncoil and deliver punishing hits. Excellent technique, especially in the lower body. Does a fantastic job of getting and keeping low, and knows how to win battles in the trenches. Needs to learn to trust his strength in taking on blockers, but this isn't much of a knock, because he instead relies on superb hand technique to separate from defenders, and release from blocks. Has a great attitude and can bring leadership to the defense, and to special teams, where he could make an immediate contribution. Not very quick feet, but good hips for his size. He can turn and run enough not to be a liability, and he can drop quickly enough to cover medium downs. Has experience calling the defense from the field. A lot to like here.

ILB-Maurice Crum

7th-FA

Maurice Crum, Notre Dame: Sure and steady, great football intelligence, and hallmark leadership define this rare two-time captain for the Irish. There is a pedigree here, as Crum's father was an All-American LB for Florida. He is a solid all-around contributor, he made most of the line calls and defensive adjustments and he has experience at each of the LB spots. He is also quite tough, playing through a chronic back injury, which will need to get cleared medically before a team takes a risk on him. He doesn't quite have an ideal fit, being just undersized enough not to be ideal for stuffing the run inside, yet not quite fast enough to be able to hold his own in coverage on the outside. What coverage ability he does have should be suitable for inside-backing. Not a physical prospect, and hesitates when taking on blockers, including chip-shot RBs. Endurance is questionable.

ILB-Morris Wooten

FA

Morris Wooten, Arizona State: Wooten is a capable inside defender with good build and size. He is a very aggressive player, leaving cut-back lanes open and preferring the hit over the solid wrap-up tackle. Enjoys getting into blocks and discards them violently, and is tenacious in pressuring the pocket. His pass-rushing skills earned him extra reps in nickle passing downs, where he moved to DE in order to pressure the backfield. Questionable coverage skills, but has decent feet. Denver could look at him late for last chance potential at backup ILB.

ILB-Daniel Holtzclaw

FA

Daniel Holtzclaw, Eastern Michigan: MAC attack! Terrific size and stunning durability with 47 straight games at MLB and no injuries. He is very instinctual, looks good mixing it up around the line, and knows his job and the jobs of the layers around him. A hard worker, with a tremendous work ethic, he is a player who did everything he could to help EMU win games. No doubt he would be higher up the list with a few more W's under his belt, but expect him to be one of the first CFAs signed in the hours after the draft.

SB Nation - Antonio Appleby

Patriots 2009 undrafted free agents

Arizona Cardinals Post Draft Coverage: Best Undrafted Free Agents

Arizona Cardinals Potential Draft Picks: Inside Linebackers

ILB, Antonio Appleby, Virginia

ILB, Antonio Appleby, Virginia

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2009 NFL Draft--Manning the Middle: Inside Linebackers, Ranked for Denver

2009 NFL Draft Coverage-Merry Draftivus!!

ILB-Rey Maualuga

1st

ILB-James Laurinaitis

1st

ILB-Darry Beckwith

2nd-3rd

ILB-Scott McKillop

3rd

ILB-Gerald McRath

3rd-4th

ILB-Dannell Ellerbe

4th

ILB-Jason Phillips

4th-5th

ILB-Worrell Williams

5th-6th

ILB-Antonio Appleby

6th

ILB-Jasper Brinkley

7th

ILB-Dominic Douglas

7th-FA

ILB-Maurice Crum

7th-FA

ILB-Morris Wooten

FA

ILB-Daniel Holtzclaw

FA