NFL Draft Recap for MWC Part 2: The Free Agent Signings

[digg http://digg.com/football/NFL_Draft_Recap_for_MWC_Part_2_Rookie_Free_Agent_Signings]

What makes no sense to me is how many players get drafted and the number of free agent signings that San Diego State produces. It could be that they do not develop fully until a few years in at SDSU, but then why do they have a team that is not competitive every year. Just an observation about that program. Most of these players will not make a roster, but the rookie mini camps are time for these undrafted players to make an impression to make this team or get noticed by coaches who may move on to keep these players in mind.

Atlanta Falcons Jimmie Kaylor, P, Colorado State

With the uncertainty of the kicking position on the Falcons, the Rams needed to bring in multiple players to audition for punting. At Colorado State Kaylor averaged 43 yards per punt.

Carolina Panthers Damon Morton, WR, Colorado State

The panthers desperately need depth at wide receiver, because after Steve Smith there really is no one there. Morton was the Rams leading receiver who scored 6 touchdowns, 774 yards receiving and is a deep threat who averaged 19 yards per catch. Morton has a chance to make the team as a 4th to 6th wideout to help create depth.

Chicago Bears Caleb Hanie, QB, Colorado State

Hanie looks to be the closest thing to a lock out of this group. The Chicago QB situation is so dicey with Brian Griese and Rex Grossman. The main competition for the third spot will be between Hanie and the other invitee Nick Hill from Southern Illinois.

Miami Dolphins Kelly Poppinga, LB, Brigham Young

Poppinga also looks to have a good shot at making the Dolphins roster, with almost every spot open if Poppinga impresses he should make the team. At BYU Poppinga made huge plays at all of the linebacker spots and has the run stopping ability to make the squad with his work ethic. A side note is that his brother Brady Poppinga play for the Green Bay Packers.

Washington Redskins Devin Clark, OL, New Mexico

Redskins need all the help they can get to protect QB Jason Campbell. The New Mexico offensive line was solid last year, so Clark gets a look to impress the team with his skills.

New Orleans Saints Jason Boone, OL, Utah

Boone was a good prospect as a Senior, but he tore his ACL in fall practice and has not played since the Armed Forces Bowl in December of 2006. If he has recovered from this Boone could be a steal for the Saints.

San Diego Chargers Billy Vinnedge, P/K, Wyoming

Vinnedge is being brought in to bring competition to the punting and kicking game.

New Orleans Saints David Roach, S, TCU

Was the only bright spot on a porous TCU secondary, has good size for a DB at 6-2 but needs to impress.

San Diego Chargers Brandyn Dombrowski, G, San Diego State

Another Aztec gets picked up and this guy is a monster 6-6 330. With that NFL ready size and his versatility to play tackle as well could land him a spot.

Chicago Bears Nick Osborn, DE, San Diego State

This one could be tough because of how good the Bears defense is, but it is aging and a young player who plays on the outside with good speed who pressures the QB could make this team.

New Orleans Saints Lynell Hamilton, RB, San Diego State

After losing Michael Turner the Chargers need to find a 3rd running back behind starter LaDainian Tomlinson and also backup Darren Sproles.

New Orleans Saints Jeremy Geathers, DE, Nevada-Las Vegas

Gathers was overshadowed by Beau Bell who was taken by Cleveland. He was a solid player and the second best defensive player on the team, Gathers will need to show versatility on defense by either playing end or outside linebacker and special teams to make the team.