NFL Draft NY Times: Tebow and Bradford Face Quick Decisions on N.F.L. Draft - Page 2

**Tribal Warfare** · 01-10-2009, 04:43 PM

Tebow and Bradford Face Quick Decisions on N.F.L. Draft
By PETE THAMEL and THAYER EVANS

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — After spending the season as college football’s marquee stars, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow and Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford now hold the biggest off-season question in their hands.

Tebow, a junior, and Bradford, a redshirt sophomore, face a Thursday deadline for nonseniors to declare for the N.F.L. draft. And while each is a Heisman Trophy winner and a homegrown star at his state’s university, they project much differently as N.F.L. prospects. Both have filed paperwork with the N.F.L. to see where they are likely to be picked in April’s draft. Two rabid fan bases will be waiting anxiously for their decisions.

Gil Brandt, a former Dallas Cowboys executive and an analyst for NFL.com, said that he believed Bradford would be a top-10 pick and that Tebow would go in the lower half of the first round.

Tebow said Thursday night that he felt a strong emotional pull to return to college but that he would determine what was best for his career and his family.

The decision may be trickier for Bradford.

One N.F.L. scout, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not permitted to talk publicly about draft prospects, said Bradford was a “no-brainer” overall No. 1 pick and compared him to Troy Aikman, the first pick in the 1989 draft.

“When you’ve watched him at Oklahoma over the years, he sticks out like a sore thumb,” the scout said. “He’s not a nickel-dime, dink-and-dunk guy. He throws those deep balls as good as anyone I’ve ever seen.”

Bradford is ranked No. 1 by some draft experts, and there are only minor questions about him. Bradford, 21, has not quite filled in his 6-foot-4 frame — he is listed at 218 pounds — and Oklahoma’s offense has kept him from facing much pass-rush pressure. Still, the positives are considered impressive.

“He’s got the size, the arm, the feet and the release,” the scout said. “He makes good decisions. He seems like a really easy guy to evaluate.”

Another factor that may sway Bradford is that Oklahoma is losing four senior offensive linemen. And as many as three of Oklahoma’s top four receivers may not return, meaning that Bradford would have a drastically different cast around him. The Sooners scored 716 points this season, a modern N.C.A.A. record, and Bradford threw for 50 touchdowns with 8 interceptions.

Bradford’s most telling comment this week might have come when he was asked if he would be watching the N.F.L. playoffs.

“I’m not a big N.F.L. guy,” he said. “I don’t watch a lot of it.”

After Thursday night’s loss, Bradford said he was unsure of his future.

“Obviously, I’ll think about it within the next week,” he said. “It’s something that I haven’t put a lot of concentration into it.”

Tebow’s N.F.L. future is a bit murkier. The scout, who said he was not sold on Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford, an early entry for the draft, said that Tebow could be the second-best quarterback prospect but one with glaring deficiencies. Some have speculated that Tebow could end up as a fullback or a tight end because of his 6-foot-3, 240-pound frame. The scout sees Tebow as a quarterback, but one that has to be looked at skeptically because he is not a natural passer.

The scout said the bottom line comparison between the two was that Bradford made big plays with his arm this season and Tebow made them with his legs. Tebow was No. 4 nationally in passing efficiency entering Thursday night’s game and finished the season with 30 touchdown passes and 4 interceptions.

“I think he’ll be back,” Florida’s offensive coordinator, Dan Mullen, said. “He’ll make a very educated decision. He’ll look at all the options, and if he’s a first-rounder, he’ll probably leave, but if he’s not, he won’t.”

Florida Coach Urban Meyer would obviously like Tebow to return but said he would be a fine N.F.L. quarterback.

“When I hear people say, ‘I wonder if he can play in the N.F.L.’, then I don’t know what football is,” Meyer said. “I don’t have any idea what happens in the N.F.L. Scoring points and taking care of the ball, third-down efficiency are important. He can play at any level, anywhere.”

Scouts express few doubts about Bradford’s readiness, but Brandt said Bradford’s value would be even higher in next year’s draft.

“This is a guy that needs to stay in school,” Brandt said. “He’s really started to develop in the last year.”

Hammock Parties · 01-11-2009, 12:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shaneo69

I've never read an article that uses periods in "N.F.L."

I thought that was fairly reeruned.

**Smed1065** · 01-11-2009, 04:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Claythan

I thought that was fairly reeruned.

Like Me...........

**DaKCMan AP** · 01-11-2009, 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

Tebow needs to stay until his Senior year though. The guy is too raw, and need an awesome QB coach to teach better mechanics, footwork, and the nuances like not zeroing in at one or two targets. I believe he can do it, but he'll have to work his balls off.

I really think Tebow should stay in school especially since Meyer just hired Scot Loeffler as QB coach. He could really benefit from a guy who has NFL credentials and has developed QBs before.

**DaKCMan AP** · 01-11-2009, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OnTheWarpath58

I'd be shocked if all three DON'T stay in school and try to win another NC.

I don't know about that. I still think Harvin and Spikes leave, but we'll see. There's been rumblings that they'll stay.

**Skip Towne** · 01-11-2009, 09:47 AM

I think Tebow should take a long walk on a short pier.

Sweet Daddy Hate · 01-11-2009, 11:38 AM

Yeah, let's just make this one short and sweet:

1) Tebow. I have no interest in a high-round, high dollar Tight End.

2) Bradford. Get your ass back to class, stickman; you ain't EVEN ready.

Thank you, that is all.

**DaKCMan AP** · 01-11-2009, 01:19 PM

TEBOW IS COMING BACK

Sweet Daddy Hate · 01-11-2009, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaKCMan AP

TEBOW IS COMING BACK

SWEET VIRGINIA, YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sweet Daddy Hate · 01-11-2009, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darth CarlSatan

SWEET VIRGINIA, YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just one left; C'mooooooooooooooooooooooooonnnnn Stickboy!

**DaKCMan AP** · 01-12-2009, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Brandon Spikes expected to return to Gators

By Jeremy Fowler | Orlando Sentinel
4:39 PM EST, January 11, 2009

GAINESVILLE - Linebacker Brandon Spikes might be an impressive NFL player one day, but the rumblings out of Gainesville indicate he'll follow Tim Tebow and return for his senior season.

Two Gators sources have told the Orlando Sentinel that Spikes is expected to play one more year with Florida. Tight end Aaron Hernandez definitively said on Sunday that "he's staying," and defensive coordinator Charlie Strong said after Thursday's national championship game that "I think he will (stay)." Hernandez said he learned through sources within the team.

Spikes, a potential first-round draft pick, has said he's heavily influenced by Tebow, who announced Sunday in front of 42,000 people in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium that he'll forgo the NFL draft and return to Gainesville to try to win a third national championship.

Oddly, Spikes wasn't in attendance for Sunday's formal celebration of the 2008 national championship, Florida's second in three seasons. There's no word yet on wide receiver Percy Harvin, who also could be a potential first-round pick in the 2009 NFL draft. Spikes is the leader of a stingy Florida defense that gave up around 13 points per game. Florida held a prolific Oklahoma offense to 40 points less than their 54-per-game average.

Should Spikes return, the Gators will have all 11 defensive starters playing in 2009.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/s...0,555194.story

Quote:

Meanwhile, scatback Percy Harvin and All-American linebacker Brandon Spikes have yet to declare their intentions -- although Harvin might have tipped his hand in a TV interview after Sunday's celebration.

''I don't know yet,'' Harvin said. ``I'm kind of leaning toward coming back, but I haven't made that decision. I'm going to sit down with Coach Meyer [on Monday].''

Spikes spent Sunday with his family rather than at the ceremony. Fellow linebacker Ryan Stamper said the Gators' leading tackler told him after beating Oklahoma that he planned to stay.

Spikes has said Tebow's decision would be a major factor in his own.

http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/co...ry/848048.html

**The Franchise** · 01-12-2009, 10:22 AM

I'm disappointed that Spikes isn't coming out....but it'd be cool if we have a shot at him next year.

BigChiefFan · 01-12-2009, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaKCMan AP

I don't know about that. I still think Harvin and Spikes leave, but we'll see. There's been rumblings that they'll stay.

Percy Harvin is a stud. I can see big things out of him in the NFL.

**buddha** · 01-12-2009, 10:34 AM

First of all, the comparisons to Aikman are moronic. I don't care who made them. Aikman was a more muscular athlete who had played a pro style offense at UCLA. I don't give a shit how Bradford throws the deep ball...he has to learn how to take the snap from center, the 3,5,7 step drops, and how to deal with NFL defensive pressure. It's a fair criticism. Bradford has never done particularly well under pressure. As for the spread and the shotgun, before folks say that these QBs can be converted in the NFL, just take a long look at Alex Smith.

Bradford is very accurate...almost freakishly so. However, I wouldn't spend a top five in the first round pick on him. He may be able to make the pro style conversion, but who knows? KC has significant needs across the board. You have to get a sure thing up there.

BigChiefFan · 01-12-2009, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by buddha

First of all, the comparisons to Aikman are moronic. I don't care who made them. Aikman was a more muscular athlete who had played a pro style offense at UCLA. I don't give a shit how Bradford throws the deep ball...he has to learn how to take the snap from center, the 3,5,7 step drops, and how to deal with NFL defensive pressure. It's a fair criticism. Bradford has never done particularly well under pressure. As for the spread and the shotgun, before folks say that these QBs can be converted in the NFL, just take a long look at Alex Smith.

Bradford is very accurate...almost freakishly so. However, I wouldn't spend a top five in the first round pick on him. He may be able to make the pro style conversion, but who knows? KC has significant needs across the board. You have to get a sure thing up there.

Bradford runs an offense similiar to the Steelers, which is obviously a pro-style offense. Also, Aikman PLAYED at OU before he went to UCLA, let's not pretend he was playing in some pro-style offense for years upon years, during the Switzer days. Accuracy will always be more coveted than arm strength, always. You might also pay attention to how quick Bradford releases the ball and that's a better indicator on how he should fair in the pros.

bishop_74 · 01-12-2009, 10:49 AM

LINK

Tebow to Gators: 'Let's Do It Again'
Posted 8 hours, 27 minutes ago in US, Sports

(Newser) – Gator Nation has two reasons to celebrate. One is the University of Florida's national championship win. The other is star quarterback Tim Tebow's return next year, reports the Gainsville Sun. Tebow broke the news to a crowd of 42,000 at the Swamp yesterday, initially making what sounded ominously like a farewell speech before announcing: "I'm coming back!" Tebow had been considering skipping senior year to play for the NFL.

"I love Gator nation, I love you all. Thank you so much. I appreciate you so much," Tebow told the crowd. "One more thing," he screamed as the fans rose to their feet. "Let's do it again!"
Source: Gainesville Sun

01-10-2009, 04:43 PM
Tribal Warfare The Boom Boom Room Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Far Beyond Comprehension Casino cash: $922813	NY Times: Tebow and Bradford Face Quick Decisions on N.F.L. Draft Tebow and Bradford Face Quick Decisions on N.F.L. Draft By PETE THAMEL and THAYER EVANS MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — After spending the season as college football’s marquee stars, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow and Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford now hold the biggest off-season question in their hands. Tebow, a junior, and Bradford, a redshirt sophomore, face a Thursday deadline for nonseniors to declare for the N.F.L. draft. And while each is a Heisman Trophy winner and a homegrown star at his state’s university, they project much differently as N.F.L. prospects. Both have filed paperwork with the N.F.L. to see where they are likely to be picked in April’s draft. Two rabid fan bases will be waiting anxiously for their decisions. Gil Brandt, a former Dallas Cowboys executive and an analyst for NFL.com, said that he believed Bradford would be a top-10 pick and that Tebow would go in the lower half of the first round. Tebow said Thursday night that he felt a strong emotional pull to return to college but that he would determine what was best for his career and his family. The decision may be trickier for Bradford. One N.F.L. scout, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not permitted to talk publicly about draft prospects, said Bradford was a “no-brainer” overall No. 1 pick and compared him to Troy Aikman, the first pick in the 1989 draft. “When you’ve watched him at Oklahoma over the years, he sticks out like a sore thumb,” the scout said. “He’s not a nickel-dime, dink-and-dunk guy. He throws those deep balls as good as anyone I’ve ever seen.” Bradford is ranked No. 1 by some draft experts, and there are only minor questions about him. Bradford, 21, has not quite filled in his 6-foot-4 frame — he is listed at 218 pounds — and Oklahoma’s offense has kept him from facing much pass-rush pressure. Still, the positives are considered impressive. “He’s got the size, the arm, the feet and the release,” the scout said. “He makes good decisions. He seems like a really easy guy to evaluate.” Another factor that may sway Bradford is that Oklahoma is losing four senior offensive linemen. And as many as three of Oklahoma’s top four receivers may not return, meaning that Bradford would have a drastically different cast around him. The Sooners scored 716 points this season, a modern N.C.A.A. record, and Bradford threw for 50 touchdowns with 8 interceptions. Bradford’s most telling comment this week might have come when he was asked if he would be watching the N.F.L. playoffs. “I’m not a big N.F.L. guy,” he said. “I don’t watch a lot of it.” After Thursday night’s loss, Bradford said he was unsure of his future. “Obviously, I’ll think about it within the next week,” he said. “It’s something that I haven’t put a lot of concentration into it.” Tebow’s N.F.L. future is a bit murkier. The scout, who said he was not sold on Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford, an early entry for the draft, said that Tebow could be the second-best quarterback prospect but one with glaring deficiencies. Some have speculated that Tebow could end up as a fullback or a tight end because of his 6-foot-3, 240-pound frame. The scout sees Tebow as a quarterback, but one that has to be looked at skeptically because he is not a natural passer. The scout said the bottom line comparison between the two was that Bradford made big plays with his arm this season and Tebow made them with his legs. Tebow was No. 4 nationally in passing efficiency entering Thursday night’s game and finished the season with 30 touchdown passes and 4 interceptions. “I think he’ll be back,” Florida’s offensive coordinator, Dan Mullen, said. “He’ll make a very educated decision. He’ll look at all the options, and if he’s a first-rounder, he’ll probably leave, but if he’s not, he won’t.” Florida Coach Urban Meyer would obviously like Tebow to return but said he would be a fine N.F.L. quarterback. “When I hear people say, ‘I wonder if he can play in the N.F.L.’, then I don’t know what football is,” Meyer said. “I don’t have any idea what happens in the N.F.L. Scoring points and taking care of the ball, third-down efficiency are important. He can play at any level, anywhere.” Scouts express few doubts about Bradford’s readiness, but Brandt said Bradford’s value would be even higher in next year’s draft. “This is a guy that needs to stay in school,” Brandt said. “He’s really started to develop in the last year.”
Posts: 42,061

01-11-2009, 09:47 AM	#20
Skip Towne Supporter Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: T-Town Casino cash: $10004900	I think Tebow should take a long walk on a short pier.
Posts: 69,689

01-11-2009, 11:38 AM	#21
Sweet Daddy Hate Unsparing Join Date: Aug 2008 Casino cash: $10004900	Yeah, let's just make this one short and sweet: 1) Tebow. I have no interest in a high-round, high dollar Tight End. 2) Bradford. Get your ass back to class, stickman; you ain't EVEN ready. Thank you, that is all. __________________ 1. Merciless, severe. 2. Given freely and generously. 100% refusal to overrate 20 year Head Coaches with ZERO **ing rings as a Head Coach. CP's Official Professor of 'Dem Blues for 2019/2020!**
Posts: 77,135

01-11-2009, 01:19 PM	#22
DaKCMan AP Beloved & Awesome CP Celebrity Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Florida Casino cash: $6754952	TEBOW IS COMING BACK __________________
Posts: 35,695

01-12-2009, 10:22 AM	#26
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $3115047	I'm disappointed that Spikes isn't coming out....but it'd be cool if we have a shot at him next year.
Posts: 92,149

01-12-2009, 10:34 AM	#28
buddha You may think you know... Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: California Casino cash: $10006184	First of all, the comparisons to Aikman are moronic. I don't care who made them. Aikman was a more muscular athlete who had played a pro style offense at UCLA. I don't give a shit how Bradford throws the deep ball...he has to learn how to take the snap from center, the 3,5,7 step drops, and how to deal with NFL defensive pressure. It's a fair criticism. Bradford has never done particularly well under pressure. As for the spread and the shotgun, before folks say that these QBs can be converted in the NFL, just take a long look at Alex Smith. Bradford is very accurate...almost freakishly so. However, I wouldn't spend a top five in the first round pick on him. He may be able to make the pro style conversion, but who knows? KC has significant needs across the board. You have to get a sure thing up there.
Posts: 2,183

01-12-2009, 10:49 AM	#30
bishop_74 Veteran Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Denver, CO. USA Casino cash: $8684993	LINK Tebow to Gators: 'Let's Do It Again' Posted 8 hours, 27 minutes ago in US, Sports (Newser) – Gator Nation has two reasons to celebrate. One is the University of Florida's national championship win. The other is star quarterback Tim Tebow's return next year, reports the Gainsville Sun. Tebow broke the news to a crowd of 42,000 at the Swamp yesterday, initially making what sounded ominously like a farewell speech before announcing: "I'm coming back!" Tebow had been considering skipping senior year to play for the NFL. "I love Gator nation, I love you all. Thank you so much. I appreciate you so much," Tebow told the crowd. "One more thing," he screamed as the fans rose to their feet. "Let's do it again!" Source: Gainesville Sun
Posts: 3,642