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                So today I’m going to address the 5 main Virginia players that are in the 2009 NFL Draft; OT Eugene Monroe, OLB Clint Sintim, RB Cedric Peerman, TE John Phillips, and WR Kevin Ogletree.  All of the players mentioned are seniors with the exception of Kevin Ogletree who was only a junior. Being from Al Groh’s system these players have the distinct advantage in the draft as Coach Groh is extremely well respected in NFL coach circles. These players also have almost perfect character and have never had a problem in their tenures at UVA. So let’s get into the projections:

 

Eugene Monroe:

Offensive Tackle       6’ 5” 312 lbs

Projected Selection: Top 8 pick

                 Monroe is the latest top offensive line prospect to come out of UVA. At 6-5 312 Monroe is a behemoth of a man and could easily anchor an offensive line for years to come. Along with Branden Albert, Monroe led one of the best left sides in the country during the 2007 campaign, and if Albert’s first round selection was any indication, Monroe will be taken very high in this draft. Monroe may go as high as 2 to the Rams, but is more likely to go 6 to the Bengals or at worst 8 to Jaguars. Pay attention to the Seahawks at 4 as a possibility too.

 

Clint Sintim:

 Outside Linebacker         6’ 3” 253 lbs

Projected Selection: 2^nd-3^rd Round

                 Sintim is without a doubt a tenacious pass rusher coming off the edge in Coach Groh’s 3-4 system. Look for Sintim to go to a team that runs a 3-4 versus a team that runs a 4-3 as his coverage abilities have come into question of late. Sintim reminds me of a Joey Porter type player who can be the emotional leader of the team and has a nose for the quarterback. I’d look at the Dolphins or the Niners in the second round, or potentially the Patriots. If he’s available in the 3^rd round I would love the Redskins to pick him up.  Good thing we traded for Jason Taylor and don’t have a 2^nd rounder, which is probably the pick the dolphins will use to take Sintim, which is a perfect fit.

Cedric Peerman:

 Running Back      5’ 10” 211 lbs

Projected Selection: 3^rd Round

                Peerman turned in the fastest 40 time at the combine, which shocked me. As a prospect I did not expect Peerman to move up the board as fast as he did. Peerman is an ordained minister so character issues are completely out of the question with him. Peerman is probably a strong 3^rd down back option, or a nice speed back to compliment a big bruiser. Here’s looking at you Cincinnati in the late 3^rd round.

 

John Phillips:

 Tight End                    6’ 5” 251 lbs

Projected Selection: 5^th Round

                Phillips is a steal in the 5^th round. UVA’s offensive deficiencies have dropped his stock way way down. As far as a prospect goes however I think teams are really missing the boat on this kid. He catches almost everything thrown his way and blocks very well. While not a monster prospect Phillips will definitely be a serviceable and reliable tight end in the NFL for years to come. As much as I hate to say this, look for the Patriots or Eagles to take a peek at him in the 5^th round if they haven’t already addressed tight end.

 

Kevin Ogletree:

Wide Receiver        6’ 1” 196 lbs

Projected Selection: 4^th Round

                I didn’t quite understand why when Ogletree entered the draft but he has certainly proven me wrong. While I’m sure the 4^th round isn’t quite as good as where he probably wanted to go Ogletree worked hard just to get to that point.  Ogletree is a perfect slot receiver to any team that needs an upgrade in that department. I’d draw comparisons to a Santana Moss type player. I’d look at the Ravens or the Steelers in the 4^th round, with the Titans as a dark horse.

 

Anyway this will all end up being proven wrong in the end but I wish all these players the best of luck. As finals approach these entries might be a little more sporadic but hopefully I’ll be able to keep up. Football talk will start soon, as well as baseball, lacrosse, and yes lyle, tennis.