Barkevious Mingo
Barkevious Mingo was one of the Browns’ targeted “blue chip” players in the draft. Mingo must make the adjustment from a 4-3 end to a 3-4 outside linebacker in defensive coordinator Ray Horton’s scheme. By widening Mingo outside, Horton will be able to take advantage of his speed, quickness, and explosive big play ability. The angular and lean pressure player needs more bulk and strength to take on lead blocks in the run game. Leon McFadden is projected to play opposite Joe Haden. McFadden demonstrated week to week consistency over his four year career in college. He closes quickly on the ball in the air. A competitor, he was all-league for three years in a row in the pass happy Mountain West Conference. He has smooth transition out of his pedal and demonstrated loose hips in the Combine’s backpedal, turn, and run drill as well as his play on the field. The former Aztec can play in a variety of man-to-man or zone coverages. Jamoris Slaughter only played two and a half games in 2012 due to a left foot Achilles injury. He started 10 games in 2011 and totaled 19 starts in his career. Versatility is his calling card, having lined up at strong and free safety, corner, and a hybrid linebacker position. A physical and explosive hitter, he has good football intelligence and is instinctive in his play. On his pro day he measured 5116, 196 pounds, and put up 225 pounds 19 times. He has 8 5/8” hands and 31 3/8” arms. Once healthy, he will be expected to contribute on special teams and compete at strong safety. He did not run due to injury, and his durability will be a question mark because of his foot injury in 2012. Armonty Bryant made news a week after the draft by getting arrested for a DUI after a college party. Poor off-thefield decisions will be the only thing that may sidetrack this talented pass rusher. He possesses explosive first step quickness and has the guile to counter blocks. Active in pursuit, he was a man playing with boys in the Texas versus Nation all-star game. A developing height, weight, and speed prospect, he has some red flags. Garrett Gilkey will get work at tackle where he played in college, but projects inside at guard where his fringe arm length isn’t as much of a disadvantage. He competed well in the Senior Bowl. A better than average athlete, he can move his feet and adjust on the run. He will need technique work as a run blocker and pass protector. He is a physical player with raw skills. During his college career he gained 70 pounds. A developmental project, he must work to bend his knees. GRADE: AVERAGE.
Box 235 Hiawatha, IA 52233