Dougherty's Random Thoughts

UT Draft-ables:

During a recent conversation with NFL Draft analyst Mike Detillier, I learned more about this year’s crop of University of Tennessee draft eligible players. It’s no secret that this class will not be Tennessee’s most prolific. In fact, there will likely be no first round players in this group, and there may not be a second rounder either.

The first guy off the board from the University of Tennessee will likely be linebacker Jerod Mayo. Mike Detillier loves Mayo and says that he thinks the former Tennessee linebacker will be productive in the league for many years. Mayo has a huge heart, plays with extreme intensity, is a born leader and flat out makes plays while doing whatever is asked of him. Mayo played in the middle for Tennessee this year, but projects as an outside linebacker at the next level. Detillier has Mayo currently listed as a second round pick. Obvious statement alert: replacing #7 will be a daunting task for the Vols.

Erik Ainge is an enigma in this draft. Some analysts suggest that Ainge will not be selected. Other say he will be a mid-round guy. There are concerns about his lack of mobility. And, what some call an uncanny ability to release the ball quickly, others call a lack of desire to hold the ball allowing deeper routes to unfold. Ainge has the mental capability and physical tools to succeed on the next level, but will he? Detiller compares him to Elvis Grbac, a serviceable QB in the NFL for many years, but no closer to Canton than me. Detiller expects Ainge to go in the fourth or fifth round which would be a successful weekend for the former Tennessee quarterback.

Brad Cottam is a guy that is catching the eye of NFL executives. He has great size and speed which are attributes that are key when evaluating potential NFL tight ends. Cottam will benefit from the amazing production former Vol Jason Witten has been able to demonstrate. Cottam missed most of his senior year with an injury that is well documented, but he did fight to make it back, which shows heart and determination. When Cottam returned he made some noise and was noticed. Cottam will participate in the Senior Bowl festivities which should help his stock as every NFL team will be involved in that week of preparations. The comeback was capped with a highlight reel 31-yard touchdown reception in the Outback Bowl against Wisconsin.

Speaking of tight ends, Chris Brown is a player that needs to find the right fit. Brown will be able to provide a team on the next level with 3rd down back abilities, is an h-back pass catching threat and has dramatically improved his blocking ability which would help create holes for running backs.

Jonathon Hefney is a tough player with good instincts. His versatility in the secondary will benefit him and could help offset the size disadvantage. Hefney is 5’9 and weighs in at 185. A comparison to Bob Sanders has been a popular one and perhaps overzealous. Sanders was recently named the NFL’s defensive player of the year, using his lack of height (5’8) to his advantage, hiding behind the front seven waiting for his chance to pop through the hole and deliver an unexpected blow. While Detillier uses the Sanders example, his thought is that Hefney would fit in beautifully at corner in a cover-2 based scheme. Hefney would be able to use his physical nature and safety skills to play in space while rolling up in zone and delivering hits. There is a wide range of thought as to where Hefney might be drafted. Look for a fifth round selection for Hefney, but look for him to enjoy a productive NFL career.

Eric Young will be a second day selection as well. And projects as an inside guy at 6’4 309. Antonio Reynolds may be a late round pick and Xavier Mitchell will need some good workout sessions at defensive end.

A new offensive era:

The decision to step away from the perceived easy selection of former Michigan offensive coordinator Mike DeBord for the Vol opening is worthy of praise. DeBord and quarterbacks coach Scott Loeffler would have fit into the Tennessee way, and they would have likely brought the 6’6 dropback specialist Ryan Mallett with them to play quarterback in 2009.

Stay with what has been familiar since Al Saunders put in this offense or break away into a “new era” of Tennessee football? Fulmer chose the path less traveled by his program opting for Richmond head football coach Dave Clawson. Instead of matching players to his system, Clawson has matched his system with his players. You are forced to manage that way on the 1-AA level. Spread option installation and play calling experience; check. Experience with a physical run game based system; check. Spread ‘em out and toss it around the lot experience; check. Wrapping up the ’08 recruiting class is key now. But, here’s an offer of congratulations to Coach Fulmer for experiencing a Robert Frost moment.

Thanks for reading, Brent. Please send comments to brentd@wlac.com.

– Brent Dougherty is the host of Prime Time Sports along with Duncan Stewart. The show is based out of Nashville can be heard into 28 states every weeknight from 8p-10p central time on News radio 1510 WLAC. You can also check the show out on-line at wlac.com; keyword: PTS.